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Fae & Human Relations #2
Fire Spells Between Friends
Whoever wins the heart of the most eligible gentleman in London will need to be an extraordinary catch indeed.
London, 1813—fae and humans alike are abuzz whenever Torquil’s Tribune drops a juicy new tidbit. At the center of the gossip is handsome fae, Emrys Wrenwhistle, heir to his family’s fortune. As speculation over his prospects grows, the search for a suitable spouse begins.
The trouble is, Emrys can’t find anyone who measures up to the person he’s been secretly seeing for years: the Tribune’s witty society writer.
Torquil Pimpernel-Smith is accustomed to using the force of gossip to pull the strings of social influence. So when they are offered a position as the Council’s first fae-human member, they readily accept.
However, their first project plunges Torquil into upper class circles rife with snobbery. Facing prejudice head-on is hard enough, without having to hide their true feelings for the eligible Emrys.
As the line of suitors starts to form, the Wrenwhistle family is intent on making a worthy match. Emrys and Torquil’s passion burns perfectly in private, but navigating society together will determine if their love is a blaze—or in danger of being extinguished.
London, 1813—fae and humans alike are abuzz whenever Torquil’s Tribune drops a juicy new tidbit. At the center of the gossip is handsome fae, Emrys Wrenwhistle, heir to his family’s fortune. As speculation over his prospects grows, the search for a suitable spouse begins.
The trouble is, Emrys can’t find anyone who measures up to the person he’s been secretly seeing for years: the Tribune’s witty society writer.
Torquil Pimpernel-Smith is accustomed to using the force of gossip to pull the strings of social influence. So when they are offered a position as the Council’s first fae-human member, they readily accept.
However, their first project plunges Torquil into upper class circles rife with snobbery. Facing prejudice head-on is hard enough, without having to hide their true feelings for the eligible Emrys.
As the line of suitors starts to form, the Wrenwhistle family is intent on making a worthy match. Emrys and Torquil’s passion burns perfectly in private, but navigating society together will determine if their love is a blaze—or in danger of being extinguished.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published November 21, 2024
27 people are currently reading
667 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
October 21, 2024
Okay so I thought that I loved Breeze spells and bridegrooms but oh my gosh, maybe perhaps love this one just a teensy bit more.
I am such a sucker for friends to lovers. Like it's actually my favorite. I also love how stupid both of them are because they're clearly in love but so dumb and they're perfect.
So this one follows Torquil who is the gossip columnist and Emrys who is Wyns older brother. From what we know from Breeze spells, Torquil is a little bit obsessed with getting in everyone's business but very hesitant to share their own and Emrys is a bit of an asshole who is set to inherit for the family but has no prospects for marriage.
I think this is why I love companion novels because you can only get so many perspectives from one book and getting to see inside another character's head brings me so much joy because I want to know everything. I am nosy and I need to know all the things.
Another part of why I like this book so much is that yes the romance is there and yes you see how stupid they both are for each other but I wouldn't even say that's the main plot of the book. The main plot is Emrys realizing that he is deserving of a love match and realizing that his love match is right in front of him and Torquil learning that they are more than just a gossip columnist and deserve to have friendships and relationships and a voice. They join the board and help develop rubrics and explanations for different magic systems in order to help as many people as possible. The main plot of the story is the exploration of fae human magic and some of the hypocrisy that has been demonstrated by members of both the fae and human communities. The main plot is the found family that both Torquil and Emrys find.
I really loved this whole thing.
Nonbinary bi MC with anxiety, pansexual MC
I am such a sucker for friends to lovers. Like it's actually my favorite. I also love how stupid both of them are because they're clearly in love but so dumb and they're perfect.
So this one follows Torquil who is the gossip columnist and Emrys who is Wyns older brother. From what we know from Breeze spells, Torquil is a little bit obsessed with getting in everyone's business but very hesitant to share their own and Emrys is a bit of an asshole who is set to inherit for the family but has no prospects for marriage.
I think this is why I love companion novels because you can only get so many perspectives from one book and getting to see inside another character's head brings me so much joy because I want to know everything. I am nosy and I need to know all the things.
Another part of why I like this book so much is that yes the romance is there and yes you see how stupid they both are for each other but I wouldn't even say that's the main plot of the book. The main plot is Emrys realizing that he is deserving of a love match and realizing that his love match is right in front of him and Torquil learning that they are more than just a gossip columnist and deserve to have friendships and relationships and a voice. They join the board and help develop rubrics and explanations for different magic systems in order to help as many people as possible. The main plot of the story is the exploration of fae human magic and some of the hypocrisy that has been demonstrated by members of both the fae and human communities. The main plot is the found family that both Torquil and Emrys find.
I really loved this whole thing.
Nonbinary bi MC with anxiety, pansexual MC
February 16, 2025
My craving for coziness this fall season has finally been satisfied!
If the first book was a hug in a mug, the sequel is a warm, honey-drizzled scone shared by a crackling fire. It's cozy, familiar, and full of sweetness, with a gentle warmth that lingers long after the last page.
I DEVOURED this book!
When I first imagined Torquil and Emrys as a couple, I envisioned something akin to enemies-to-lovers. I pictured a provocative, arrogant Emrys humbled by the quick-witted Torquil. Someone who always had it all, coming to appreciate and value the work and talents of the less fortunate. I anticipated angst and sparks flying between them.
Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the author's choice of a long, secret affair. But even then, I didn't expect this book to be even more wholesome than the first. I definitely didn't anticipate this level of sweetness from both characters.
If Torquil is a fluffy, sweet marshmallow, then Emrys is the delicate, warm chocolate fondue that perfectly complements them.
I'm still so overwhelmed by this sweetness that I can't seem to think of anything else! I need to sleep on it before adding anything of substance. However, I feel I owe it to the authors to share my thoughts, however jumbled they are, especially after taking months to review the first book.
PS: After my previous success, I was tempted to try and guess the next couple to be matched. However, nothing was as eye-catching this time. Though I'm really interested in Ravenwing's healing journey. Maybe he'd find it with someone who hasn't been introduced yet. More importantly, I'm also curious who's going to be invited to the council. There are at least two humans, one fae, and potentially two more mixed-blood additions to be expected. That alone has great potential for romance.
If the first book was a hug in a mug, the sequel is a warm, honey-drizzled scone shared by a crackling fire. It's cozy, familiar, and full of sweetness, with a gentle warmth that lingers long after the last page.
I DEVOURED this book!
When I first imagined Torquil and Emrys as a couple, I envisioned something akin to enemies-to-lovers. I pictured a provocative, arrogant Emrys humbled by the quick-witted Torquil. Someone who always had it all, coming to appreciate and value the work and talents of the less fortunate. I anticipated angst and sparks flying between them.
Needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the author's choice of a long, secret affair. But even then, I didn't expect this book to be even more wholesome than the first. I definitely didn't anticipate this level of sweetness from both characters.
If Torquil is a fluffy, sweet marshmallow, then Emrys is the delicate, warm chocolate fondue that perfectly complements them.
I'm still so overwhelmed by this sweetness that I can't seem to think of anything else! I need to sleep on it before adding anything of substance. However, I feel I owe it to the authors to share my thoughts, however jumbled they are, especially after taking months to review the first book.
PS: After my previous success, I was tempted to try and guess the next couple to be matched. However, nothing was as eye-catching this time. Though I'm really interested in Ravenwing's healing journey. Maybe he'd find it with someone who hasn't been introduced yet. More importantly, I'm also curious who's going to be invited to the council. There are at least two humans, one fae, and potentially two more mixed-blood additions to be expected. That alone has great potential for romance.
January 29, 2025
Torquil is essentially a gossip columnist who mostly uses their column to play Cupid and butt into everyone’s love lives, and I didn’t think I would like a character like that, even if they did use their power for good. But they were so lovable! They were so sweet and a little sassy and confident in some ways but shy in others. And I just loved them and really felt for them and their struggles.
I liked Emrys too. He could be a jerk to his brother, but he was so kind and sweet with Torquil. He was a little naive and oblivious about Torquil’s struggles because of his privilege, but he tried to help whenever he did realize. It was also so cute and funny when *MILD SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
Their relationship was so sweet and gentle and tender. I think the afterword mentioned that word, tender, and if that is what the authors were going for, then yes, they nailed it. It was also scorching hot! And even in those scenes, it never lost its sweetness. I adored these two together. And so did almost every other character, it seemed. By the time they went public, their romance was the worst kept secret in London.
But somehow it felt sort of like a slow burn. They were already sleeping together and clearly had real feelings at the start, but the whole book was spent building up their growing understanding of their feelings and the depth of what was between them. Part of me was like, “Ahhhh I just want them to tell each other already!” But another part of me loved the delicious tension. Because I could really feel that tension in their secret relationship that they both obviously (to the reader) wanted to be public. It made sense though, why they didn’t tell each other sooner. They didn’t know how the other felt, didn’t want to put pressure on them, and Torquil felt like Emrys could never marry them because of their different societal statuses.
The friendship in this book between Torquil and Roger and Wyn (the characters from the previous book) was lovely too. So was the brothers getting closer, mending the rift between them. And a few other relationships.
There was also magic, of course, and some other plot stuff, and I enjoyed that too. In fact, I felt it was integrated into the story better this time. In Book 1, there was a lot of description of how magic worked and focus on that part of the plot, and my interest dropped a bit in the second half of the book, but I didn’t have that problem this time. This was more about the romance and characters, with the magic supplementing that. Also there was some bigotry against half-fae, that was part of the plot, but with an ultimately hopeful message.
The audiobook narration by Matt Simpson was great. It sounded natural and characters sounded different enough to tell apart. I enjoyed listening.
So yeah, I loved this! I adored these two lovable characters and their sweet, tender, adorable romance, plus the bit of magic and friendship and overall lovely story!
*Rating: 4.5 or 5 Stars (decisions are hard) // Read Date: 2025 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes sweet, tender romance, sweet friendship, lovable characters, gentle stories, magic, scorching hot sex, and a somewhat forbidden romance.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
I liked Emrys too. He could be a jerk to his brother, but he was so kind and sweet with Torquil. He was a little naive and oblivious about Torquil’s struggles because of his privilege, but he tried to help whenever he did realize. It was also so cute and funny when *MILD SPOILER* *END SPOILER*
Their relationship was so sweet and gentle and tender. I think the afterword mentioned that word, tender, and if that is what the authors were going for, then yes, they nailed it. It was also scorching hot! And even in those scenes, it never lost its sweetness. I adored these two together. And so did almost every other character, it seemed. By the time they went public, their romance was the worst kept secret in London.
But somehow it felt sort of like a slow burn. They were already sleeping together and clearly had real feelings at the start, but the whole book was spent building up their growing understanding of their feelings and the depth of what was between them. Part of me was like, “Ahhhh I just want them to tell each other already!” But another part of me loved the delicious tension. Because I could really feel that tension in their secret relationship that they both obviously (to the reader) wanted to be public. It made sense though, why they didn’t tell each other sooner. They didn’t know how the other felt, didn’t want to put pressure on them, and Torquil felt like Emrys could never marry them because of their different societal statuses.
The friendship in this book between Torquil and Roger and Wyn (the characters from the previous book) was lovely too. So was the brothers getting closer, mending the rift between them. And a few other relationships.
There was also magic, of course, and some other plot stuff, and I enjoyed that too. In fact, I felt it was integrated into the story better this time. In Book 1, there was a lot of description of how magic worked and focus on that part of the plot, and my interest dropped a bit in the second half of the book, but I didn’t have that problem this time. This was more about the romance and characters, with the magic supplementing that. Also there was some bigotry against half-fae, that was part of the plot, but with an ultimately hopeful message.
The audiobook narration by Matt Simpson was great. It sounded natural and characters sounded different enough to tell apart. I enjoyed listening.
So yeah, I loved this! I adored these two lovable characters and their sweet, tender, adorable romance, plus the bit of magic and friendship and overall lovely story!
*Rating: 4.5 or 5 Stars (decisions are hard) // Read Date: 2025 // Format: Audiobook*
Recommended For:
Anyone who likes sweet, tender romance, sweet friendship, lovable characters, gentle stories, magic, scorching hot sex, and a somewhat forbidden romance.
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
October 29, 2024
I had the immense privilege to read this book in June, thanks to a giveaway and the generosity of S.O. Callahan and Sarah Wallace. I fell in love with this book then, and I am still in love with it now.
It’s honestly really hard to put into words. When I read Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms earlier this year I couldn’t believe how beautifully Shannon and Sarah wove their writing styles and magic systems together to create this world so seamlessly. When I learned there would be three more books, I couldn’t imagine anything surpassing Breeze Spells.
And yet, here we are. I somehow love Fire Spells Between Friends even more. I adore Torquil, and I love how Emrys loves them as if nothing and no one else matters. I love how what Emrys lacks in outwardly perceived intelligence, he makes up for by being kind, caring, and supportive of Torquil, and I love how Torquil acknowledges this when Emrys isn’t in the room.
In their usual fashion, Callahan and Wallace have managed to weave a story of racial and class disparity that still encourages us to think. We see so much more of the two magic systems and how they compliment each other as we learn alongside Torquil how extraordinary their Fae-Human magic is, which is such a delight to read after we learn these systems separately in Breeze Spells.
We get more Roger and Wyn, more meddling from Iris, and we get to see an up close view of the Tribune, which just helps enrich the story so much more. Between running the Tribune, joining the Council, working on the new rubric, and loving Emrys, we watch Torquil go through the most and the consequences that inevitably come from trying to do it all. And in Emrys, we watch him court other Fae and Humans hand selected by his mother as he slowly recognizes he already knows who he wants to be with, and no one else will ever match up.
This book is forever special to me for many reasons, which renders it hard to review adequately. Nothing has felt quite right when I try to string my thoughts together. But ultimately, this book is beautiful, and if you loved Breeze Spells, you will love Fire Spells. Don’t forget to pre-order your copy before Nov 21!
It’s honestly really hard to put into words. When I read Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms earlier this year I couldn’t believe how beautifully Shannon and Sarah wove their writing styles and magic systems together to create this world so seamlessly. When I learned there would be three more books, I couldn’t imagine anything surpassing Breeze Spells.
And yet, here we are. I somehow love Fire Spells Between Friends even more. I adore Torquil, and I love how Emrys loves them as if nothing and no one else matters. I love how what Emrys lacks in outwardly perceived intelligence, he makes up for by being kind, caring, and supportive of Torquil, and I love how Torquil acknowledges this when Emrys isn’t in the room.
In their usual fashion, Callahan and Wallace have managed to weave a story of racial and class disparity that still encourages us to think. We see so much more of the two magic systems and how they compliment each other as we learn alongside Torquil how extraordinary their Fae-Human magic is, which is such a delight to read after we learn these systems separately in Breeze Spells.
We get more Roger and Wyn, more meddling from Iris, and we get to see an up close view of the Tribune, which just helps enrich the story so much more. Between running the Tribune, joining the Council, working on the new rubric, and loving Emrys, we watch Torquil go through the most and the consequences that inevitably come from trying to do it all. And in Emrys, we watch him court other Fae and Humans hand selected by his mother as he slowly recognizes he already knows who he wants to be with, and no one else will ever match up.
This book is forever special to me for many reasons, which renders it hard to review adequately. Nothing has felt quite right when I try to string my thoughts together. But ultimately, this book is beautiful, and if you loved Breeze Spells, you will love Fire Spells. Don’t forget to pre-order your copy before Nov 21!
September 30, 2024
This book was impossible to put down!🔥(I literally fell asleep on it 3 hours after my bedtime...)
I have so many feelings.
This was the first time I read a book with a main character who uses they/them pronouns. The line level writing also works beautifully, reinforcing the perspective that (no matter what they're wearing) Torquil is a person and binaries don't apply. I found that powerful for many reasons.
Torquil is possibly my new favorite character in all of the authors' books so far (I used to think toppling Wyn and Charles was impossible... apparently not). They're so obviously competent, brilliant, and funny that it's heartbreaking that they also think so little of themself. That felt *incredibly* relatable.
The magic in this series is still incredible. Sweeping fae magic is full of a sense of wonder but manages to adhere to its rules without losing any of the ✨magic✨.
Human magic is structured and still fascinating.
And fae-human magic is varied, impossible to pin down (just like trying to define exactly one way to be non-binary. I see what you did there💕).
What I love about Sarah's and Shannon's ways of writing magic is that no one is inherently bad at it. It's always that they haven't learned how to use their own talents. We've seen a lot of that in the Meddle & Mend series but there's a lot of it in here too. I love that messaging on a deeply personal level and seeing more of it always warms my heart (like my own little fire spell).
We also get so much of Wyn and Roger. I loved seeing that! These boys make a perfect team and I want to see more of their not-too-subtle scheming.
Also, now I'm looking forward to Emrys & Torquil's wedding spell!
I received a free ARC copy from the authors and this is my honest opinion.
I have so many feelings.
This was the first time I read a book with a main character who uses they/them pronouns. The line level writing also works beautifully, reinforcing the perspective that (no matter what they're wearing) Torquil is a person and binaries don't apply. I found that powerful for many reasons.
Torquil is possibly my new favorite character in all of the authors' books so far (I used to think toppling Wyn and Charles was impossible... apparently not). They're so obviously competent, brilliant, and funny that it's heartbreaking that they also think so little of themself. That felt *incredibly* relatable.
The magic in this series is still incredible. Sweeping fae magic is full of a sense of wonder but manages to adhere to its rules without losing any of the ✨magic✨.
Human magic is structured and still fascinating.
And fae-human magic is varied, impossible to pin down (just like trying to define exactly one way to be non-binary. I see what you did there💕).
What I love about Sarah's and Shannon's ways of writing magic is that no one is inherently bad at it. It's always that they haven't learned how to use their own talents. We've seen a lot of that in the Meddle & Mend series but there's a lot of it in here too. I love that messaging on a deeply personal level and seeing more of it always warms my heart (like my own little fire spell).
We also get so much of Wyn and Roger. I loved seeing that! These boys make a perfect team and I want to see more of their not-too-subtle scheming.
Also, now I'm looking forward to Emrys & Torquil's wedding spell!
I received a free ARC copy from the authors and this is my honest opinion.
October 3, 2024
Thank you to Sarah Wallace and S. O. Callhan for the eARC
4,25/5
I wasn't expecting to loe this book even more than the first one, but I did. So much so that I finished it in two days despite having my days filled with studies. The authors manage to have a writing fitting the period they are writing, as well as being easy to read.
The characters are really cute, especially Torquil, with their vulnerability and strength, how hard they try to make a fairer world with little actions. They are competent, funny, kind, what's not to love? Especially with their sharp tongue.
Emrys, for his part, is partly infuriating (with other people) and absolutely adorable (with Torquil). Seeing him evolve a little, especially toward Wyn and for standing his ground for his own happiness, was a delight, entertaining. His pride is well balanced, just enough to fit with the character without rendering him absolutely despicable. He resembles his brother, but with different coping mechanisms, which is a nice touch.
I still love the magic system, well made, complex without being impossible to follow, new and yet familiar.
Following the both of them as they struggle and discover a new era of their life, filled with change and realisation was a perfect light read for starting this autumn, with just enough tension and exasperating things happening to be grounded, and the perfect balance of tenderness, love and softness.
If you like cosy fantasy and a great friends to lover romance, I really encourage you to pick this one !
4,25/5
I wasn't expecting to loe this book even more than the first one, but I did. So much so that I finished it in two days despite having my days filled with studies. The authors manage to have a writing fitting the period they are writing, as well as being easy to read.
The characters are really cute, especially Torquil, with their vulnerability and strength, how hard they try to make a fairer world with little actions. They are competent, funny, kind, what's not to love? Especially with their sharp tongue.
Emrys, for his part, is partly infuriating (with other people) and absolutely adorable (with Torquil). Seeing him evolve a little, especially toward Wyn and for standing his ground for his own happiness, was a delight, entertaining. His pride is well balanced, just enough to fit with the character without rendering him absolutely despicable. He resembles his brother, but with different coping mechanisms, which is a nice touch.
I still love the magic system, well made, complex without being impossible to follow, new and yet familiar.
Following the both of them as they struggle and discover a new era of their life, filled with change and realisation was a perfect light read for starting this autumn, with just enough tension and exasperating things happening to be grounded, and the perfect balance of tenderness, love and softness.
If you like cosy fantasy and a great friends to lover romance, I really encourage you to pick this one !
October 27, 2024
I forgot to mark it as read xD 😅 my rating is 3,75*/5* and full review will be updated till end of the week. I received this book as e-arc from authors.
I hope this review make some sense cuz I'm few day on new meds for adhd and i feel like my thoughts are just everywhere. (i will try to get back to rewrite it.)
Review time:
I'm not sure how to start this review, according my rating you can see i didn't like this book that much as i would like to, for me the first was much better.
Now let's star with the things i liked.
Chemistry between Torquil and Emrys was great! I really love this "gentle for x" trop, and that was written really well. As well as Incorporation our first couple in the story, they were so lovely and sweet. Roger was friendlier than ever so Torquil felt really accepted which made me so happy. I wished it for them so much i can't even describe it. Oh and Iris! She was the perfect grandma, that will invite you home and doesn't let you leave before you're full.
Other great thing was concule, that few of the old workers had still these conservative believes and weren't able to accept the changes. It make it so much more realistic and i really really appreciate it.
Then there were a Torquil, their character was so lovely and genuine, so i really wanted to be their friends. From the start i had slight problem why over use of "they/them", cuz i realized that to this point i didn't read much non-binary book written in neutral language. But it didn't take me long to get use to it so i were able to fully enjoy the experience of reading non-binary character using plural pronounce.
Now the things i didn't like that much.
I didn't like Emrys like 1/3 of book. I know he isn't supposed to be super smart, but the way he acted and though were just irritating. Imagine 13 year old boy during puberty in body of adult. That's how annoying it was for me. His though in words: sex, oh i don't know what i feel, my brother is xy. In the 2/3 i was way better but i still couldn't get rid of the first impression of him.
Next thing on my list is magic and the rubric... I have the same problem as i had in the first book. It wasn't properly described and i still don't really know how the rating system works and how does the rubric looks like.
And last but not least
Torquils grandma... They reconciliation was just way to quick and i didn't believe it for the second.
I hope this review make some sense cuz I'm few day on new meds for adhd and i feel like my thoughts are just everywhere. (i will try to get back to rewrite it.)
Review time:
I'm not sure how to start this review, according my rating you can see i didn't like this book that much as i would like to, for me the first was much better.
Now let's star with the things i liked.
Chemistry between Torquil and Emrys was great! I really love this "gentle for x" trop, and that was written really well. As well as Incorporation our first couple in the story, they were so lovely and sweet. Roger was friendlier than ever so Torquil felt really accepted which made me so happy. I wished it for them so much i can't even describe it. Oh and Iris! She was the perfect grandma, that will invite you home and doesn't let you leave before you're full.
Other great thing was concule, that few of the old workers had still these conservative believes and weren't able to accept the changes. It make it so much more realistic and i really really appreciate it.
Then there were a Torquil, their character was so lovely and genuine, so i really wanted to be their friends. From the start i had slight problem why over use of "they/them", cuz i realized that to this point i didn't read much non-binary book written in neutral language. But it didn't take me long to get use to it so i were able to fully enjoy the experience of reading non-binary character using plural pronounce.
Now the things i didn't like that much.
I didn't like Emrys like 1/3 of book. I know he isn't supposed to be super smart, but the way he acted and though were just irritating. Imagine 13 year old boy during puberty in body of adult. That's how annoying it was for me. His though in words: sex, oh i don't know what i feel, my brother is xy. In the 2/3 i was way better but i still couldn't get rid of the first impression of him.
Next thing on my list is magic and the rubric... I have the same problem as i had in the first book. It wasn't properly described and i still don't really know how the rating system works and how does the rubric looks like.
And last but not least
Torquils grandma... They reconciliation was just way to quick and i didn't believe it for the second.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2024
4,5* rounded up.
If you want a cozy reading for your autumnal evenings, this book is perfect. It’s low stakes romance/comedy of manners, set in a queer-normative world, although the world has its classists and bigots. The style is very elegant and appropriate for the setting. Most of the characters are kind and lovely, the villains few, settings and relationships properly developed. I loved both MCs and the support group of friends. It’s really hard not to love Torquil in particular. And there is a cat - always a plus.
My only two qualms are the excessive length, particularly in the first half where the story dragged for me. And I wanted more comeuppance to that one bigoted character.
I received an electronic copy from the authors and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
If you want a cozy reading for your autumnal evenings, this book is perfect. It’s low stakes romance/comedy of manners, set in a queer-normative world, although the world has its classists and bigots. The style is very elegant and appropriate for the setting. Most of the characters are kind and lovely, the villains few, settings and relationships properly developed. I loved both MCs and the support group of friends. It’s really hard not to love Torquil in particular. And there is a cat - always a plus.
My only two qualms are the excessive length, particularly in the first half where the story dragged for me. And I wanted more comeuppance to that one bigoted character.
I received an electronic copy from the authors and I’m leaving a voluntary and honest review.
March 8, 2025
4.25 ~ 4.4⭐
One night stand turned into hookups, turned into friends with benefits over the years, turned into omfg, I have been in love with you all this time, isn't? Cozy, fun, with a much better pacing than the first book and a far more enjoyable narration. DELIGHTFUL!!
One night stand turned into hookups, turned into friends with benefits over the years, turned into omfg, I have been in love with you all this time, isn't? Cozy, fun, with a much better pacing than the first book and a far more enjoyable narration. DELIGHTFUL!!
Want to read
November 14, 2025I'm just...a hero named Torquil just...does it for me. Must read.
October 18, 2024
Inhales* TORQUIL IS PRECIOUS AND DESERVES THE WORLD AND MORE 🩷🩷🩷❄️❄️❄️
Thank you Sarah Wallace and S.O. Callahan for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review ❤️
What a beautiful and lovely romance! Emrys, Wyn's older brother, is set to inherit the Wrenwhistle estate, making him the most eligible bachelor in London. However, none of his matches feel right. Torquil, owner/writer of The Tribune, has been invited to join the council for Fae and Human Relations, as the first fae-human member ever. But their new role also comes with more social responsibilities, and prejudice. Not to mention that they have feelings for Emrys, their best friend and private lover. As time goes on, the passion between Torquil and Emrys burns brighter.
I loveeeeeed this book! Even more than the first one, and the first one was wonderful! Torquil is by far my favourite character in this series. They were so amazing and I loved their sense of humour and wit. And Emrys was so flirty, I loved it. I love BOTH of them 🩷 It was so nice to see more of Roger and Wyn as well, and to see their blossoming friendship with Torquil. Wyn is so sly 😎 The plot was engaging and of course the writing style was amazing and flowed nicely. EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT, OKAY??
Also, I loved Leonora 🩷 And Iris 🩷
5 whole stars for this beautiful book! Release date is November 21st! 🩷
What to expect:
♡ Lovers to partners
♡ Witty fae-human
♡ Flirty fae
♡ Opposites attract
♡ Forced proximity
♡ Class difference
♡ Idiots in love
Representation:
♡ Nonbinary mc
♡ Bi mc
♡ Pansexual mc
♡ Cast of queer side characters
♡ Queernormative world
Thank you Sarah Wallace and S.O. Callahan for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review ❤️
What a beautiful and lovely romance! Emrys, Wyn's older brother, is set to inherit the Wrenwhistle estate, making him the most eligible bachelor in London. However, none of his matches feel right. Torquil, owner/writer of The Tribune, has been invited to join the council for Fae and Human Relations, as the first fae-human member ever. But their new role also comes with more social responsibilities, and prejudice. Not to mention that they have feelings for Emrys, their best friend and private lover. As time goes on, the passion between Torquil and Emrys burns brighter.
I loveeeeeed this book! Even more than the first one, and the first one was wonderful! Torquil is by far my favourite character in this series. They were so amazing and I loved their sense of humour and wit. And Emrys was so flirty, I loved it. I love BOTH of them 🩷 It was so nice to see more of Roger and Wyn as well, and to see their blossoming friendship with Torquil. Wyn is so sly 😎 The plot was engaging and of course the writing style was amazing and flowed nicely. EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT, OKAY??
Also, I loved Leonora 🩷 And Iris 🩷
5 whole stars for this beautiful book! Release date is November 21st! 🩷
What to expect:
♡ Lovers to partners
♡ Witty fae-human
♡ Flirty fae
♡ Opposites attract
♡ Forced proximity
♡ Class difference
♡ Idiots in love
Representation:
♡ Nonbinary mc
♡ Bi mc
♡ Pansexual mc
♡ Cast of queer side characters
♡ Queernormative world
March 3, 2025
4.5⭐
A lovely continuation to this series. Torquil is a wonderful character, which could be deduced already from book one. I'm not as impressed by Emrys to be honest, he is such a privileged jock. His only trouble in life is being an heir and "having to" marry suitably, which is kind of... well... The pressure is of course real, but it's not like there's an actual risk of him being abandoned or disinherited really, let alone something worse, while Torquil has been disinherited and abandoned and he's facing prejudice and poverty every day. So in all honesty, I would have enjoyed seeing Emrys face a bit more pain and done some groveling here, but at least he does some growing. I don't dislike him.
This story has less magical studies - though there is still some, yay - and more about the societal issues, especially of the mixed offspring. Torquil is a fine hero and this story shows us how minorities don't get to choose their fights and are often quite forced to be activists and icons. I just have to commend the writers for managing to keep this cosy with wonderful supporting characters and Torquil finding his place in the world, while not softening the realities of social differences too much.
A lovely continuation to this series. Torquil is a wonderful character, which could be deduced already from book one. I'm not as impressed by Emrys to be honest, he is such a privileged jock. His only trouble in life is being an heir and "having to" marry suitably, which is kind of... well... The pressure is of course real, but it's not like there's an actual risk of him being abandoned or disinherited really, let alone something worse, while Torquil has been disinherited and abandoned and he's facing prejudice and poverty every day. So in all honesty, I would have enjoyed seeing Emrys face a bit more pain and done some groveling here, but at least he does some growing. I don't dislike him.
This story has less magical studies - though there is still some, yay - and more about the societal issues, especially of the mixed offspring. Torquil is a fine hero and this story shows us how minorities don't get to choose their fights and are often quite forced to be activists and icons. I just have to commend the writers for managing to keep this cosy with wonderful supporting characters and Torquil finding his place in the world, while not softening the realities of social differences too much.
October 27, 2024
October 2024: 5 Stars
As much as I enjoyed "Breeze Spells", "Fire Spells Between Friends" blew it right out of the water. I didn't expect to fall for Emrys and Torquil as hard as I did, especially when I disliked the former and was deeply suspicious of the latter by the end of "Breeze Spells". This book turned that on its head for me by page two, and within a couple of chapters I was utterly obsessed with Torquil and Emrys's relationship. The familiarity, the tenderness, the complicité they share... something about their love for each other healed a piece of my heart.
Torquil, for their part, healed a different part of me altogether. Seeing the parallels between their experience as a fey-human in society alongside my own as a queer, non-binary individual (read: cryptid) made my heart bleed for them on multiple occasions. Though their gender and sexuality are normalized in the society of the world they live in, their life as a fey-human is rife with barriers that full humans or fey needn't consider. I could feel their exhaustion, their apprehension, their overall lack of self-worth as, in their mind, it was a given that they'd never get to live the sort of life humans or fey get to. With their upbringing, and their understanding of their parents' rejection from society, it's hard to blame them. I didn't expect to resonate with Torquil as much as I did, but their way of seeing the world, and more importantly, themself, brought me to tears more than once.
Emrys can take some blame for some of my crying as well. He is exactly the sort of partner Torquil needs and deserves, and- though I never thought I'd say this after "Breeze Spells"- I can only hope I'll be lucky enough to have my own Emrys one day. Not Emrys specifically, of course, but someone who pays attention and understands his partners challenges and is diligent and attentive in his efforts to do what he can to lighten their mental and emotional load. He's an absolute gem, and I loved Emrys, Torquil, and "Fire Spells" to pieces. Absolutely CANNOT wait for the next installment 💖
(I received an early ebook copy from the esteemed writers when winning an Instagram contest, and will absolutely be pre-ordering a paperback to sit alongside my hard copy of "Breeze Spells" on my shelf.)
As much as I enjoyed "Breeze Spells", "Fire Spells Between Friends" blew it right out of the water. I didn't expect to fall for Emrys and Torquil as hard as I did, especially when I disliked the former and was deeply suspicious of the latter by the end of "Breeze Spells". This book turned that on its head for me by page two, and within a couple of chapters I was utterly obsessed with Torquil and Emrys's relationship. The familiarity, the tenderness, the complicité they share... something about their love for each other healed a piece of my heart.
Torquil, for their part, healed a different part of me altogether. Seeing the parallels between their experience as a fey-human in society alongside my own as a queer, non-binary individual (read: cryptid) made my heart bleed for them on multiple occasions. Though their gender and sexuality are normalized in the society of the world they live in, their life as a fey-human is rife with barriers that full humans or fey needn't consider. I could feel their exhaustion, their apprehension, their overall lack of self-worth as, in their mind, it was a given that they'd never get to live the sort of life humans or fey get to. With their upbringing, and their understanding of their parents' rejection from society, it's hard to blame them. I didn't expect to resonate with Torquil as much as I did, but their way of seeing the world, and more importantly, themself, brought me to tears more than once.
Emrys can take some blame for some of my crying as well. He is exactly the sort of partner Torquil needs and deserves, and- though I never thought I'd say this after "Breeze Spells"- I can only hope I'll be lucky enough to have my own Emrys one day. Not Emrys specifically, of course, but someone who pays attention and understands his partners challenges and is diligent and attentive in his efforts to do what he can to lighten their mental and emotional load. He's an absolute gem, and I loved Emrys, Torquil, and "Fire Spells" to pieces. Absolutely CANNOT wait for the next installment 💖
(I received an early ebook copy from the esteemed writers when winning an Instagram contest, and will absolutely be pre-ordering a paperback to sit alongside my hard copy of "Breeze Spells" on my shelf.)
November 19, 2024
I had the honor of doing a manuscript critique for this lovely book and also received early ebook and audiobook copies from the authors. This review is honest and of my own accord.
I adore this book and these characters with all my heart! This is a gorgeous love story, in addition to being a story with beautiful friendships. It shows the building of community and growth towards self-love. It has lovely character arcs and scenes that are so sweet, they make me cry.
Fire Spells is a wonderful holiday romance: cozy with a good helping of steam and a touch of angst and pining. There is also fabulous humor. I laughed out loud a number of times, especially in certain moments with the servants. I adore butler and servant characters, especially when they are too polite to intrude on emotional or awkward moments, or when they get subtly involved in matchmaking. It brings me such joy!
The audiobook was wonderfully narrated by Matthew Simpson. It was a truly fantastic and poignant performance!
I definitely recommend this beautiful book!
I adore this book and these characters with all my heart! This is a gorgeous love story, in addition to being a story with beautiful friendships. It shows the building of community and growth towards self-love. It has lovely character arcs and scenes that are so sweet, they make me cry.
Fire Spells is a wonderful holiday romance: cozy with a good helping of steam and a touch of angst and pining. There is also fabulous humor. I laughed out loud a number of times, especially in certain moments with the servants. I adore butler and servant characters, especially when they are too polite to intrude on emotional or awkward moments, or when they get subtly involved in matchmaking. It brings me such joy!
The audiobook was wonderfully narrated by Matthew Simpson. It was a truly fantastic and poignant performance!
I definitely recommend this beautiful book!
January 26, 2025
3.5 stars. Queer, Fae Lady Whistledown. Cute queer (m/nb) romance set in a queer norm, magical version of Regency England.
I wanted more character development and world building.
I wanted more character development and world building.
October 17, 2024
An absolutely stunning read!!
When we met Torquil is book one, I instantly fell in love with them and was so excited that they were getting their own story! They definitely did not disappoint!
Torquil Pimpernel-Smith doesn’t quite fit into society, but loves writing about it. They’re not far enough not human enough, they’ve never been magically tested, and they have no family fortune to speak of. They love writing their weekly tribune, and spreading London’s best gossip, but most of their life is lived on the sidelines. What no one knows is, Torquil has been keeping a very eligible lover for years. Emrys Wrenwhistle.
Emrys is everything Torquil isn’t. The most magical member of a prominent fae family, Emory’s future is bright. But he’s coming to an age where his mother wants him to choose a spouse, and no one she flings at him quite fits the bill. The more he looks, the more Emrys turns to Torquil for support and joy. It’s a match his family would never accept, but keeping Torquil might just be worth it.
This is a lovely, cozy romance where you’ll find:
-Friends with benefits
-A sassy gossip columnist
-Magic realism
-Non-binary MC
-A sweet and sexy romance
-A very meddling family!
Thank you so much to Sarah and S.O. For this wonderful arc!!!
When we met Torquil is book one, I instantly fell in love with them and was so excited that they were getting their own story! They definitely did not disappoint!
Torquil Pimpernel-Smith doesn’t quite fit into society, but loves writing about it. They’re not far enough not human enough, they’ve never been magically tested, and they have no family fortune to speak of. They love writing their weekly tribune, and spreading London’s best gossip, but most of their life is lived on the sidelines. What no one knows is, Torquil has been keeping a very eligible lover for years. Emrys Wrenwhistle.
Emrys is everything Torquil isn’t. The most magical member of a prominent fae family, Emory’s future is bright. But he’s coming to an age where his mother wants him to choose a spouse, and no one she flings at him quite fits the bill. The more he looks, the more Emrys turns to Torquil for support and joy. It’s a match his family would never accept, but keeping Torquil might just be worth it.
This is a lovely, cozy romance where you’ll find:
-Friends with benefits
-A sassy gossip columnist
-Magic realism
-Non-binary MC
-A sweet and sexy romance
-A very meddling family!
Thank you so much to Sarah and S.O. For this wonderful arc!!!
December 1, 2024
This review was originally published on Before We Go Blog
Greetings fortunate folk and hopeful humans, this writer is delighted to announce that Sarah Wallace and S.O. Callahan are once again on absolute fire in Fire Spells Between Friends, the dazzling brand-new instalment in the Fae & Human Relations series. Come for the juicy and witty Bridgerton vibes, stay for the complex relationships, beautifully authentic queer romance, and all the cozy and magical delights.
Now, as much as I adored Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms, I have to admit that I was equally nervous and excited to dive into Fire Spells Between Friends. See, while I was over the moon when I heard that this romance would focus on none other than the enigmatic and intriguing gossip society writer Torquil Pimpernel-Smith (one of my favourite characters from book 1), I was quite surprised to discover that the love-interest would be the snarky asshat Emrys Wrenwhistle. Moreover, I simply wasn’t sure if or how Wallace and Callahan would be able to recapture the magic of Roger and Wyn’s romance, because they set the bar SO high.
However, as soon as I started reading, all my concerns and reservations flew straight out the window. These characters really surprised me in all the best ways with their complexity and emotional vulnerability, and I loved following them on their messy but beautifully authentic journey. The dynamic between Torquil and Emrys (who turned out to be an absolute darling of a himbo, who could’ve seen that coming?!) was incredibly heartwarming, even when I sometimes wanted to strangle them both for how oblivious they were to their own deepest wants and desires.
Honestly, this is a slow-burn friends (with a lot of benefits) to lovers like I have never seen before, and I was truly eating up all the delicious inner conflicts and emotional turmoil. Though what I maybe loved most about Fire Spells Between Friends, is that it is so much more just a love story. On one hand we have Torquil’s struggle to navigate upper (fae) society and to embrace their unique magic due to their taboo human/fae heritage, while on the other hand we see Emrys having to navigate his societal duties all while trying not to crumble under the weight of familial expectations. There’s quite a bit of soul-searching and self-growth involved in their journeys, and I deeply appreciated how some of the heavier themes were treated with the care and weight they deserve while never sacrificing the wholesome and delightful vibe of the story.
Now, similarly to in Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms, there were a couple of slight lulls in the pacing for me as I found myself warming up way quicker to one half of the romantic pairing than the other (guess the Wrenwhistle brothers are not the easiest to love). But even so, I simply could not stop turning the pages because Wallace and Callahan just imbued this story with so much irresistible charm and heart. And what’s more, I loved that we got to spend so much time reconnecting with some beloved familiar faces from book 1 (Roger is still his scrumptious darling self), as well as meeting some new characters who immediately captured my heart with their allure and charisma (grandma Iris is truly a hoot and a half!).
With Fire Spells Between Friends, Wallace and Callahan prove that it is indeed possible to catch lightning in a bottle twice, and I already can’t wait to see what they will conjure up with their spellbinding storytelling magic next. So, if you like the sound of a cozy and queer historical fantasy romance featuring an anxious non-binary bi MC and a pansexual MC whose powerful inner journeys and simmering slow-burn love story will set your heart aflame, then I can’t recommend Fire Spells Between Friends highly enough. And for peak immersion and enjoyment, please do yourself a favour and listen to the audiobook, because the illustrious Matt Simpson does an absolutely marvellous job of capturing the lavish Regency Era vibe and bringing these vibrant characters to life; what a treat for the soul!
Greetings fortunate folk and hopeful humans, this writer is delighted to announce that Sarah Wallace and S.O. Callahan are once again on absolute fire in Fire Spells Between Friends, the dazzling brand-new instalment in the Fae & Human Relations series. Come for the juicy and witty Bridgerton vibes, stay for the complex relationships, beautifully authentic queer romance, and all the cozy and magical delights.
Now, as much as I adored Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms, I have to admit that I was equally nervous and excited to dive into Fire Spells Between Friends. See, while I was over the moon when I heard that this romance would focus on none other than the enigmatic and intriguing gossip society writer Torquil Pimpernel-Smith (one of my favourite characters from book 1), I was quite surprised to discover that the love-interest would be the snarky asshat Emrys Wrenwhistle. Moreover, I simply wasn’t sure if or how Wallace and Callahan would be able to recapture the magic of Roger and Wyn’s romance, because they set the bar SO high.
However, as soon as I started reading, all my concerns and reservations flew straight out the window. These characters really surprised me in all the best ways with their complexity and emotional vulnerability, and I loved following them on their messy but beautifully authentic journey. The dynamic between Torquil and Emrys (who turned out to be an absolute darling of a himbo, who could’ve seen that coming?!) was incredibly heartwarming, even when I sometimes wanted to strangle them both for how oblivious they were to their own deepest wants and desires.
Honestly, this is a slow-burn friends (with a lot of benefits) to lovers like I have never seen before, and I was truly eating up all the delicious inner conflicts and emotional turmoil. Though what I maybe loved most about Fire Spells Between Friends, is that it is so much more just a love story. On one hand we have Torquil’s struggle to navigate upper (fae) society and to embrace their unique magic due to their taboo human/fae heritage, while on the other hand we see Emrys having to navigate his societal duties all while trying not to crumble under the weight of familial expectations. There’s quite a bit of soul-searching and self-growth involved in their journeys, and I deeply appreciated how some of the heavier themes were treated with the care and weight they deserve while never sacrificing the wholesome and delightful vibe of the story.
Now, similarly to in Breeze Spells and Bridegrooms, there were a couple of slight lulls in the pacing for me as I found myself warming up way quicker to one half of the romantic pairing than the other (guess the Wrenwhistle brothers are not the easiest to love). But even so, I simply could not stop turning the pages because Wallace and Callahan just imbued this story with so much irresistible charm and heart. And what’s more, I loved that we got to spend so much time reconnecting with some beloved familiar faces from book 1 (Roger is still his scrumptious darling self), as well as meeting some new characters who immediately captured my heart with their allure and charisma (grandma Iris is truly a hoot and a half!).
With Fire Spells Between Friends, Wallace and Callahan prove that it is indeed possible to catch lightning in a bottle twice, and I already can’t wait to see what they will conjure up with their spellbinding storytelling magic next. So, if you like the sound of a cozy and queer historical fantasy romance featuring an anxious non-binary bi MC and a pansexual MC whose powerful inner journeys and simmering slow-burn love story will set your heart aflame, then I can’t recommend Fire Spells Between Friends highly enough. And for peak immersion and enjoyment, please do yourself a favour and listen to the audiobook, because the illustrious Matt Simpson does an absolutely marvellous job of capturing the lavish Regency Era vibe and bringing these vibrant characters to life; what a treat for the soul!
November 11, 2024
ARC Read & Audiobook
Narrator Matt Simpson and the author duo S.O Callahan and Sarah Wallace created another magical holiday story of two very different yet similar protagonists. Torquil Pimpernel Smith was simply shown as a gossip columnist in Book 1 who used his writing machinations to bring together Wyndham Wrenwhistle and Roger Barnes in holy matrimony. This book portrays Torquill in a different manner, someone with vulnerabilities, ambition, desire to do right and who has faced discriminations all their life, subtle and outright just because they are half-fae and half human. Even after an outstanding acceptance has been shown for Wyn and Roger's union, a fae and a human, it does not in anyway indicate that the society is ready to accept everyone with mixed fae human heritage. They are now part of the fae-human council, but most members treat them like a secretary till the newly wedded council members Wyn and Roger arrive back in London. And then there is there secret relationship with Emrys Wrenwhistle, the heir to the Wrenwhistle family.
Emrys gave an impression of someone whose very flirty, outrageously crude and way too much over in his head in book 1. The animosity between Emrys and Wyn was very much there and even more palpable in this book, but we also see a wonderful growth and a side of his character that only his beloved Torquill and maybe his grandmother knew. He's kind, generous and very romantic in nature, but very oblivious to his own feelings. This time it's his turn to be in the marriage mart, and he plays the role very well while not being sure what he wants in his future partner, till ones close to him jarr him to the reality of his feelings for Torquill.
We also have a delightful reappearance from our fave characters Wyn and Roger, who have been shown very much in love and very driven to put their Rubric to work, and working on another rubric with fae-human combo magic. In the third Rubric Torquill is involved with them and this trio is just marvelous when they combine their fabulous minds.
Mat Simpson delightful performance in book one continues to provide more delight in book 2. we have some very spicy 🔥 moments performed beautifully by our narrator and the consistency in voice variation is just awesome. This book is a delight, even being a bit lengthy one enjoys the story build up thoroughly and that's what we look for in holiday read😍.
Thanks to the authors for the ARC copy of the book & audiobook.
Narrator Matt Simpson and the author duo S.O Callahan and Sarah Wallace created another magical holiday story of two very different yet similar protagonists. Torquil Pimpernel Smith was simply shown as a gossip columnist in Book 1 who used his writing machinations to bring together Wyndham Wrenwhistle and Roger Barnes in holy matrimony. This book portrays Torquill in a different manner, someone with vulnerabilities, ambition, desire to do right and who has faced discriminations all their life, subtle and outright just because they are half-fae and half human. Even after an outstanding acceptance has been shown for Wyn and Roger's union, a fae and a human, it does not in anyway indicate that the society is ready to accept everyone with mixed fae human heritage. They are now part of the fae-human council, but most members treat them like a secretary till the newly wedded council members Wyn and Roger arrive back in London. And then there is there secret relationship with Emrys Wrenwhistle, the heir to the Wrenwhistle family.
Emrys gave an impression of someone whose very flirty, outrageously crude and way too much over in his head in book 1. The animosity between Emrys and Wyn was very much there and even more palpable in this book, but we also see a wonderful growth and a side of his character that only his beloved Torquill and maybe his grandmother knew. He's kind, generous and very romantic in nature, but very oblivious to his own feelings. This time it's his turn to be in the marriage mart, and he plays the role very well while not being sure what he wants in his future partner, till ones close to him jarr him to the reality of his feelings for Torquill.
We also have a delightful reappearance from our fave characters Wyn and Roger, who have been shown very much in love and very driven to put their Rubric to work, and working on another rubric with fae-human combo magic. In the third Rubric Torquill is involved with them and this trio is just marvelous when they combine their fabulous minds.
Mat Simpson delightful performance in book one continues to provide more delight in book 2. we have some very spicy 🔥 moments performed beautifully by our narrator and the consistency in voice variation is just awesome. This book is a delight, even being a bit lengthy one enjoys the story build up thoroughly and that's what we look for in holiday read😍.
Thanks to the authors for the ARC copy of the book & audiobook.
December 19, 2024
I got an ARC of this book and, though I didn’t finish it before it officially came out, still wanted to give my honest review!
I loved the characters! Torquil is so precious and trying so hard to fit into this society they’ve been thrust into while bettering their community. Emrys is prideful and a bit crude but still good intentioned, and reading him realizing his true feelings towards Torquil was so sweet to see. Wyndham and Roger were lovely and I love the friendship that develops between them and Torquil.
I’m fascinated with the world Sarah Wallace and S.O Callahan have created - The way magic is measured and graded via rubric, the way it impacts your place in society and future opportunities and how the characters are trying to better it. The tensions and struggles fae/humans face in their society, despite the thrill of Wyndham and Roger’s wedding and Mrs. Wrenwhistle actively trying to set Emrys up with eligible humans… Some very interesting implications that I hope the authors continue to explore in future books.
Now, for my complaints: This is a book where not much happens. The majority of the plot revolves around characters sitting and talking or attending various social events, with a few major plot points in between. I do not think this is a bad thing. I very much like character driven works. However, this may be why the reconciliation between Torquil and their grandmother feels a bit… jarring. We spend the majority of the book hearing that Torquil’s grandparents disowned their mother for marrying a human, seeing how it impacted Torquil’s life, their anxiety at potentially running into their grandparents when they are first entering society. The reveal that their grandmother was forced into disowning her daughter and is excited to finally get to be in Torquil’s life comes very close to the ending. Which is honestly a shame, because I like the plot twist itself and wish it had more time to settle.
Overall, a great read if you’re looking for something slow and cozy during the holidays. Excited to see what the authors do with this world next.
I loved the characters! Torquil is so precious and trying so hard to fit into this society they’ve been thrust into while bettering their community. Emrys is prideful and a bit crude but still good intentioned, and reading him realizing his true feelings towards Torquil was so sweet to see. Wyndham and Roger were lovely and I love the friendship that develops between them and Torquil.
I’m fascinated with the world Sarah Wallace and S.O Callahan have created - The way magic is measured and graded via rubric, the way it impacts your place in society and future opportunities and how the characters are trying to better it. The tensions and struggles fae/humans face in their society, despite the thrill of Wyndham and Roger’s wedding and Mrs. Wrenwhistle actively trying to set Emrys up with eligible humans… Some very interesting implications that I hope the authors continue to explore in future books.
Now, for my complaints: This is a book where not much happens. The majority of the plot revolves around characters sitting and talking or attending various social events, with a few major plot points in between. I do not think this is a bad thing. I very much like character driven works. However, this may be why the reconciliation between Torquil and their grandmother feels a bit… jarring. We spend the majority of the book hearing that Torquil’s grandparents disowned their mother for marrying a human, seeing how it impacted Torquil’s life, their anxiety at potentially running into their grandparents when they are first entering society. The reveal that their grandmother was forced into disowning her daughter and is excited to finally get to be in Torquil’s life comes very close to the ending. Which is honestly a shame, because I like the plot twist itself and wish it had more time to settle.
Overall, a great read if you’re looking for something slow and cozy during the holidays. Excited to see what the authors do with this world next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
I had an ARC of this book prior to the publication date, but life interfered and I never read it. I recently re-read book one in this series so I could refresh my memory and continue the series.
I wasn't too sure I was interested in a story between Torquil, the gossip columnist who engineered the marriage between Roger and Wyn in the first book, and Emrys, Wyn's annoying older brother. Turns out I was interested because they're great! Torquil is clever, insightful, and understandingly skeptical of society folks since they have grown up being shunned for their fae-human blood. Emrys becomes much less annoying when you realize he's secretly head-over-heels for Torquil -- he has a heart after all!
Seeing Torquil begin to hear and realize how treasured they are and watching Emrys fight for the love he's had all along was delightful to witness. And it was fun to see lots more of Roger and Wyn! I love being in this queernormative world, so it was great to be back again.
Definitely read book one before grabbing this one -- it will not make sense otherwise. You really need to get to know the characters in the first book before experiencing this story continuation.
Thank you to the authors for the original ARC. This is my unbiased review, and I have since purchased a copy of the book for myself!
I wasn't too sure I was interested in a story between Torquil, the gossip columnist who engineered the marriage between Roger and Wyn in the first book, and Emrys, Wyn's annoying older brother. Turns out I was interested because they're great! Torquil is clever, insightful, and understandingly skeptical of society folks since they have grown up being shunned for their fae-human blood. Emrys becomes much less annoying when you realize he's secretly head-over-heels for Torquil -- he has a heart after all!
Seeing Torquil begin to hear and realize how treasured they are and watching Emrys fight for the love he's had all along was delightful to witness. And it was fun to see lots more of Roger and Wyn! I love being in this queernormative world, so it was great to be back again.
Definitely read book one before grabbing this one -- it will not make sense otherwise. You really need to get to know the characters in the first book before experiencing this story continuation.
Thank you to the authors for the original ARC. This is my unbiased review, and I have since purchased a copy of the book for myself!
November 3, 2024
You know damn well if Sebastian Nothwell, King of queer period piece romances gives his approval , you're in for a good book. I was given the immense privilege of an advanced copy from the authors, whom I adore so much, and I'm so glad to have been able to read Emrys and Torquils story early as I was Wyndham and Roger's. This book was slightly shorter than Breezespells and so I think it felt less daunting to me, although what drew me in about wyn and roger was that their romance was very very slow burn, as in they didn't even become intimate until about 75% of the way through if I remember correctly, and I really loved that. I know not every couple will be the same, so it doesn't change my rating any that torquil and Emerys' dynamic was more friends with benefits to lovers rather than complete slow burn. I overall really loved the message of the story being that Emerys was deserving of love too, and I liked that his character was well written enough that he was perfectly dislikeable in the beginning. It shows character growth, and it may be annoying to read about at first but I think it's a lot more upsetting to be peeved at a character only for them to never change, rather than to be peeved for a bit but see them flourish in the end. And I'm always a sucker for a well written character with anxiety. I adored both of them so much, and I yet again have not been let down by Sarah and S.O.
June 3, 2025
My habit of ignoring the books I'm already halfway through to speed read romance novels continues. I just re-read the first book in this series, and got too impatient to wait for my libby hold on this one so I just bought the ebook. Anyway, I had a great time with this. There aren't enough books with nonbinary mc's, and too many of the ones that do exist make a weird point to tell you the characters agab even when it's not plot relevant. I don't tend to enjoy queer normative historical stuff mostly because I like angst and conflict in my romance, and a lot of times I feel it doesn't make sense, but this was well done and the world was still clearly fleshed out. The characters are all fun to read about and I like switching between povs so you get to see everyone's side of things.
January 9, 2025
This is just as sweet as the first one, and I think it moves faster, too. It's so fun. I love the queerness and open-mindedness of the society. This could have been so angsty, but it isn't, which is a relief. I love the way the characters interact, and I loved seeing Roger and Wyn again, especially from an outside perspective. I love that this goes beyond being a love story and is probably more prominently a story about self-growth and realizing your own worth featuring characters who are fighting for the rights of themselves and others. If you enjoyed the first one, I'm sure this one won't disappoint.
December 31, 2024
Actual rating:4,5
This was absolutely sweet!!! I loved that they already had a relationship for several years before realising they were totally in love, I loved Torq even more than in the first book and I loved Emrys for being the absolute sweetest to them!
It was a little dragging sometimes because I just couldn’t believe them not realising they’re perfect for each other earlier/starting to doubt in again.
Most of all I love this queer normative world where nobody bats an eye about people of the same gender getting married or trans people existing 😍
This was absolutely sweet!!! I loved that they already had a relationship for several years before realising they were totally in love, I loved Torq even more than in the first book and I loved Emrys for being the absolute sweetest to them!
It was a little dragging sometimes because I just couldn’t believe them not realising they’re perfect for each other earlier/starting to doubt in again.
Most of all I love this queer normative world where nobody bats an eye about people of the same gender getting married or trans people existing 😍
December 2, 2024
4.5
Almoooost a 5 stars I devoured it but I wasn't fully on board with the "twist"(ish) at the end I guess that I thought was a bit of an easy way to address some of the conflict. It was well done overall but eh. Everything else was fantastic and I put an alarm early this morning so I could finish before going to work so 😅
Almoooost a 5 stars I devoured it but I wasn't fully on board with the "twist"(ish) at the end I guess that I thought was a bit of an easy way to address some of the conflict. It was well done overall but eh. Everything else was fantastic and I put an alarm early this morning so I could finish before going to work so 😅
December 1, 2024
I didn't set any expectations as I had no clue how these two characters would ever be able to form a romance.
But wow, was I wrong! This was absolutely amazing and I might've enjoyed it even more than book 1.
Definitely a book I would recommend for the cosy months
But wow, was I wrong! This was absolutely amazing and I might've enjoyed it even more than book 1.
Definitely a book I would recommend for the cosy months
May 23, 2025
3.5 stars
Very sweet romance. Good series if you're looking for something with no angst or drama.
Very sweet romance. Good series if you're looking for something with no angst or drama.
November 21, 2024
I had the luck to get an ARC and I loved going back to this world!
The first book has been one of my favorite cozy reads this year, and this second one was also cozy but with a little bit more spice.
I really like that this is an LGBTQ+ normative society, but there are still bigots because of other reasons, like your parentage or how pure you are, whether fae or human. There will always be people who fear anyone who’s different in any way, but there will also always be people who will be inclusive and accepting and allies.
A big plus for me is that we get so much of the couple of Book 1 in this book without taking the focus from the principal couple on this book.
I have no idea what’s to come next for this world, but I hope the authors keep on incorporating the existing couples into the stories of the new main characters because it’s kinda impossible not to fall in love with the characters and want to know what’s next for them after they get their HEAs.
Not sure when the next installment of this world will get to us, but I’ll definitely keep on reading these stories as they come!
The first book has been one of my favorite cozy reads this year, and this second one was also cozy but with a little bit more spice.
I really like that this is an LGBTQ+ normative society, but there are still bigots because of other reasons, like your parentage or how pure you are, whether fae or human. There will always be people who fear anyone who’s different in any way, but there will also always be people who will be inclusive and accepting and allies.
A big plus for me is that we get so much of the couple of Book 1 in this book without taking the focus from the principal couple on this book.
I have no idea what’s to come next for this world, but I hope the authors keep on incorporating the existing couples into the stories of the new main characters because it’s kinda impossible not to fall in love with the characters and want to know what’s next for them after they get their HEAs.
Not sure when the next installment of this world will get to us, but I’ll definitely keep on reading these stories as they come!
October 31, 2024
I may be a tad biased, because I’ll read and love anything by Sarah Wallace, but this was such a lovely read. I adore the dynamic between the characters and how sweet, uncomplicated and clear the love that grows is. It’s the same meddling from friends as in all of Sarah’s books, which I love.
The story isn’t all sunshine, but all the best cozy fantasies have their dark moments that makes the rest of the book all the sweeter. In the end, it’s like reading a big hug or cozying down under your blankets with your favorite person (or animal or cup of tea) a cold winter’s day.
That said, this is not a book for those of you who wants action and a fast paced story. You can come along to this series if you want friendship, a quiet but blossoming love, a fascinating magic system and a queernormative world that is amazing.
/ Denise
The story isn’t all sunshine, but all the best cozy fantasies have their dark moments that makes the rest of the book all the sweeter. In the end, it’s like reading a big hug or cozying down under your blankets with your favorite person (or animal or cup of tea) a cold winter’s day.
That said, this is not a book for those of you who wants action and a fast paced story. You can come along to this series if you want friendship, a quiet but blossoming love, a fascinating magic system and a queernormative world that is amazing.
/ Denise
June 30, 2025
Cute friends to husbands. No angst at all. Nice world setting. Romance and fantasy.
I liked this better than the first one.
I liked this better than the first one.
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