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Treaties of Moial #6
Incubus's Scheme
An incubus who yearns for love. A woman who craves excitement.
She’ll help him navigate his courtship of another woman, but will he ever look at what’s right in front of him?
***
Brevin has always been a romantic. When he believes he’s fallen in love, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to prove that he can be as trustworthy and faithful as any human lover. But as an incubus, he can’t live without feeding through touch. Brevin must find the balance between his needs and the rigid proscriptions imposed by the human he is courting. Luckily, he meets Selona, who is not only willing to feed him without breaking his rules, but can also teach him everything he needs to know about winning over a human woman.
Selona is tired of conforming to society and her family’s expectations. She wants to enjoy life, not just live it. That’s why she traveled across an ocean to an empire where she can be whoever she wants. Her first adventure leads her to Brevin, and an introduction to fascinating foreign politics. When feeding becomes friendship, Selona realizes she wants more, but knows that if she interferes with his courtship she’ll be the villain.
When his courtship gets tangled in political intrigues, will Brevin finally admit who truly owns his heart?
***The books in The Treaties of Moial Series each focus on a different couple. The books can be read as stand-alones, but may be better enjoyed in chronological order. Each book has a HEA.
She’ll help him navigate his courtship of another woman, but will he ever look at what’s right in front of him?
***
Brevin has always been a romantic. When he believes he’s fallen in love, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to prove that he can be as trustworthy and faithful as any human lover. But as an incubus, he can’t live without feeding through touch. Brevin must find the balance between his needs and the rigid proscriptions imposed by the human he is courting. Luckily, he meets Selona, who is not only willing to feed him without breaking his rules, but can also teach him everything he needs to know about winning over a human woman.
Selona is tired of conforming to society and her family’s expectations. She wants to enjoy life, not just live it. That’s why she traveled across an ocean to an empire where she can be whoever she wants. Her first adventure leads her to Brevin, and an introduction to fascinating foreign politics. When feeding becomes friendship, Selona realizes she wants more, but knows that if she interferes with his courtship she’ll be the villain.
When his courtship gets tangled in political intrigues, will Brevin finally admit who truly owns his heart?
***The books in The Treaties of Moial Series each focus on a different couple. The books can be read as stand-alones, but may be better enjoyed in chronological order. Each book has a HEA.
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2025
3 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Jen Lynning
22 books88 followersJen Lynning never outgrew her love of fairy tales. (She may have studied German just so she could read the Brothers Grimm in the original.) When she wasn’t reading about life in a magical world, she was imagining it. Eventually she decided to start writing her own stories where magic and romance meet.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
Jen lives in Northern Virginia with her two cats, who make their own contributions to her writing by walking across the keyboard, and her bird, who offers commentary on the whole process.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
July 11, 2025
Every time I pick up a Jen Lynning book I promise myself I'm just going to read a few chapters... and then inevitably I end up inhaling the entire thing in one sitting. A charming spicy-cosy fantasy of manners with loads of political intrigue and loveable characters. I adored the hero, an incubus nobly and angstily determined to prove he's more than a rakish sex-demon stereotype, and the smart, take-charge heroine who Sorts Him Out.
You can read each book in this series as a standalone, as each follows a new couple, but I've loved following the threads tying them all together!
You can read each book in this series as a standalone, as each follows a new couple, but I've loved following the threads tying them all together!
June 5, 2025
Incubus's Scheme is the sixth book in theTreaties of Moial series, and follows Brevin, who you might remember from Oracle's Reign. You don't need to read all the books in the Moial series to enjoy this one, but I would recommend Stranger's Choice (book 3) and Oracle's Reign (book 5) for the best experience.
I think Pynth is my favorite place in this world Jen has created. Both the creatures, the culture and the politics. I'm not usually big on politics myself, but Jen always makes it interesting to read, and this book is no exception.
I always find the outsider looking in trope to be most effective and enjoyable when introducing readers to a brand new world. And here, Selona already knows a bit about Pynth from her relationship with her cousin Sebin. So we're not given the full breadth of a new culture, but just enough to be aware of all the differences between the two.
I loved Selona. She was bright, adventurous and knew herself. The fact that her cousin is half-incubus made her the perfect person to meet and befriend Brevin. Who has dealt with prejudice and hesitation (sometimes outright fear) even from his own people, who live and deal with incubi on the daily.
Brevin was a sweetheart, if misguided. It was unfortunate that he couldn't see through Karreni's deception early on, but the picture Jen painted was a truthful one for a person in that situation. Blinded by what they think is love, and then the determination not to fail even once they realize the truth. Thank goodness for Selona.
Having read brief encounters with Selona in other Moial books, it was nice to finally see her get a HEA.
Jen provided what I've come to expect from her (at least with the Moial books) good characterization, stringent plot, political intrigue, dealing with discrimination and a hint of spice. She meshes cross-cultural interactions like a pro.
Final note: I'm really glad Brevin changed his preferences with Onissa before that collapse (IYKYK)
All-in-all a great addition to the Treaties of Moial series.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
I think Pynth is my favorite place in this world Jen has created. Both the creatures, the culture and the politics. I'm not usually big on politics myself, but Jen always makes it interesting to read, and this book is no exception.
I always find the outsider looking in trope to be most effective and enjoyable when introducing readers to a brand new world. And here, Selona already knows a bit about Pynth from her relationship with her cousin Sebin. So we're not given the full breadth of a new culture, but just enough to be aware of all the differences between the two.
I loved Selona. She was bright, adventurous and knew herself. The fact that her cousin is half-incubus made her the perfect person to meet and befriend Brevin. Who has dealt with prejudice and hesitation (sometimes outright fear) even from his own people, who live and deal with incubi on the daily.
Brevin was a sweetheart, if misguided. It was unfortunate that he couldn't see through Karreni's deception early on, but the picture Jen painted was a truthful one for a person in that situation. Blinded by what they think is love, and then the determination not to fail even once they realize the truth. Thank goodness for Selona.
Having read brief encounters with Selona in other Moial books, it was nice to finally see her get a HEA.
Jen provided what I've come to expect from her (at least with the Moial books) good characterization, stringent plot, political intrigue, dealing with discrimination and a hint of spice. She meshes cross-cultural interactions like a pro.
Final note: I'm really glad Brevin changed his preferences with Onissa before that collapse (IYKYK)
All-in-all a great addition to the Treaties of Moial series.
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
June 12, 2025
Incubus's Scheme by Jen Lynning
Treaties of Moial #6
3.6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up to 4)
Spice: 1/5
Cursing: none
Format/Source: ebook ARC from author
Genres/Tropes: fantasy, romance
Audience: Adult
Setting: Pynth
Characters: Brevin, Onissa, Karreni, Selona, Yslie, Peroen, Jovnal
👍 short-med chapters, multi POV, Brevin, well-written characters who evoke strong emotions, no cursing
👎 too much politics
Description:
Brevin has always been a romantic. When he believes he’s fallen in love, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to prove that he can be as trustworthy and faithful as any human lover. But as an incubus, he can’t live without feeding through touch. Brevin must find the balance between his needs and the rigid proscriptions imposed by the human he is courting. Luckily, he meets Selona, who is not only willing to feed him without breaking his rules, but can also teach him everything he needs to know about winning over a human woman.
Selona is tired of conforming to society and her family’s expectations. She wants to enjoy life, not just live it. That’s why she traveled across an ocean to an empire where she can be whoever she wants. Her first adventure leads her to Brevin, and an introduction to fascinating foreign politics. When feeding becomes friendship, Selona realizes she wants more, but knows that if she interferes with his courtship she’ll be the villain.
My opinion:
Jen pens a well-paced romantic fantasy in a fun world. The short-med length chapters and multiple POV make for an effortless read. The characters are developed so greatly that they evoke very strong emotions (love, hate, frustration, etc). Brevin was definitely my favorite person in this novel. I absolutely adored that there is no cursing in this tale. I didn't care so much for the unending politics throughout the book. I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic fantasy writing.
#bookstagram #arcreader #booklovers #fantasybooks #booktok #booktok #incubus
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Treaties of Moial #6
3.6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (rounded up to 4)
Spice: 1/5
Cursing: none
Format/Source: ebook ARC from author
Genres/Tropes: fantasy, romance
Audience: Adult
Setting: Pynth
Characters: Brevin, Onissa, Karreni, Selona, Yslie, Peroen, Jovnal
👍 short-med chapters, multi POV, Brevin, well-written characters who evoke strong emotions, no cursing
👎 too much politics
Description:
Brevin has always been a romantic. When he believes he’s fallen in love, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to prove that he can be as trustworthy and faithful as any human lover. But as an incubus, he can’t live without feeding through touch. Brevin must find the balance between his needs and the rigid proscriptions imposed by the human he is courting. Luckily, he meets Selona, who is not only willing to feed him without breaking his rules, but can also teach him everything he needs to know about winning over a human woman.
Selona is tired of conforming to society and her family’s expectations. She wants to enjoy life, not just live it. That’s why she traveled across an ocean to an empire where she can be whoever she wants. Her first adventure leads her to Brevin, and an introduction to fascinating foreign politics. When feeding becomes friendship, Selona realizes she wants more, but knows that if she interferes with his courtship she’ll be the villain.
My opinion:
Jen pens a well-paced romantic fantasy in a fun world. The short-med length chapters and multiple POV make for an effortless read. The characters are developed so greatly that they evoke very strong emotions (love, hate, frustration, etc). Brevin was definitely my favorite person in this novel. I absolutely adored that there is no cursing in this tale. I didn't care so much for the unending politics throughout the book. I really enjoyed this story and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic fantasy writing.
#bookstagram #arcreader #booklovers #fantasybooks #booktok #booktok #incubus
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 14, 2025
What a wonderful book! While this is the 6th book in the Treaties of Moial series, I have not read all the books and this book was great even without additional context. It definitely stands on its own.
I loved several aspects of this book, starting with the main characters. Brevin and Selona are great. They both have well defined personalities and they grow throughout the book in different ways. There are no silly misunderstandings and Selona, in particular, is self-aware enough to do the right things. Selona is smart, funny, adventurous, and very politically astute. Brevin is intelligent and very politically astute as well, but has this big blind spot about what love really is/should be. Their banter is fun, they support each other, and Brevin eventually understands on his own the mistake he was making.
The world building is great and the political intrigue was fascinating. I loved how they kept finding out a little bit more about what the "bad character" in the book is up to. They would think they had the whole picture, and then realize something was still missing and go about discovering it. I loved that element of the book.
I have come to expect good stories by Jen Lynning and this one didn't disappoint. I am not sure why I have not read this series from Jen Lynning (I have read her other series), but I am fixing that oversight immediately after reading this book.
My one request to Jen Lynning is whether she would consider creating a series following Brevin and Selona as they unravel other plots/mysteries. They would be really good at it (and this wouldn't be the last book in this universe).
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved several aspects of this book, starting with the main characters. Brevin and Selona are great. They both have well defined personalities and they grow throughout the book in different ways. There are no silly misunderstandings and Selona, in particular, is self-aware enough to do the right things. Selona is smart, funny, adventurous, and very politically astute. Brevin is intelligent and very politically astute as well, but has this big blind spot about what love really is/should be. Their banter is fun, they support each other, and Brevin eventually understands on his own the mistake he was making.
The world building is great and the political intrigue was fascinating. I loved how they kept finding out a little bit more about what the "bad character" in the book is up to. They would think they had the whole picture, and then realize something was still missing and go about discovering it. I loved that element of the book.
I have come to expect good stories by Jen Lynning and this one didn't disappoint. I am not sure why I have not read this series from Jen Lynning (I have read her other series), but I am fixing that oversight immediately after reading this book.
My one request to Jen Lynning is whether she would consider creating a series following Brevin and Selona as they unravel other plots/mysteries. They would be really good at it (and this wouldn't be the last book in this universe).
I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 28, 2025
Jen Lynning always creates stunning worlds; set in a renaissance-style period, mixing in a little fantasy, romance and politics. I previously read "Scaling the Stormy Tower" (a 5 star read) by Lynning last year, which was set in a different world but gave quite similar vibes. So if you've read any of her other work, I'm sure you will like this one too! While "Incubus's Scheme" is number 6 in the "Treaties of Moial" series, it can be read as a standalone - however, to better understand the world, it may be better to read the other books in the series first to paint a better picture. Also there were several characters mentioned who are no doubt from previous books.
I love Lynning's writing style, and how well-paced her stories are. There is enough plot/intrigue beyond the main romance plot to keep you interested, and the characters are so multi-layered that you can't help but fall in love with them yourself. Our FMC is tasked with trying to help the MMC romance his love interest, and yes while it's predictable that they will fall in love themselves it's still a rollercoaster journey!
I was certainly pulled in by the description of the MMC being an incubus who feeds through physical touch, as that's not something that I've read much. It was interesting to see the contrasts between different incubi, with love-craving Brevin who is desperate for real emotional connection compared to manipulative Jovnal who only uses his lure to seduce women. I would love to have seen this species explored further.
For me, there may have been slightly too much focus on the politics which took away focus from the fantasy/romance, but it is still worthy of 4.5 stars.
I love Lynning's writing style, and how well-paced her stories are. There is enough plot/intrigue beyond the main romance plot to keep you interested, and the characters are so multi-layered that you can't help but fall in love with them yourself. Our FMC is tasked with trying to help the MMC romance his love interest, and yes while it's predictable that they will fall in love themselves it's still a rollercoaster journey!
I was certainly pulled in by the description of the MMC being an incubus who feeds through physical touch, as that's not something that I've read much. It was interesting to see the contrasts between different incubi, with love-craving Brevin who is desperate for real emotional connection compared to manipulative Jovnal who only uses his lure to seduce women. I would love to have seen this species explored further.
For me, there may have been slightly too much focus on the politics which took away focus from the fantasy/romance, but it is still worthy of 4.5 stars.
July 2, 2025
▸Gaslamp romantasy
▸Incubus looking for true love
▸Incubus x human
▸Courtship lessons
▸Political intrigue
▸He feeds through touch
▸Schemes
▸She coaches him
▸Completed series
▸Interconnected standalone
▸Dual POV
we meet again with Brevin in this book!✨ Brevin hopelessly wants to find his true love made him so blind that he can't see that the woman he wants, Karreni, is not the right person for him, several times he doesn't listen to his friends' advice, until finally he meets Selona. Selona's pleasant demeanor immediately makes them close, knowing Brevin's situation, Selona doesn't try to make him stay away from Karreni—but becomes his coach in approaching her, so that Brevin can open his eyes and realize it himself
I usually pick up this author's books whatever it is because I'm always sure of a wonderful read lol. and this book, although filled with a strong political intrigued nuance, doesn't make this book boring. I feel that this book is balanced between the political plot and the romance, making this book even more exciting at the climax. I just loved the pace and flow of the story, Brevin and Selona also have a great chemistry, and I'm happy with the appearance of characters from the previous books!🥰 Overall I loved this final book, delighted to have read this series and hope everyone gets a chance to read and enjoy!🤩 this book is the final book of the interconnected standalone: Treaties of Moial series, you can just jump in and read but it really helps to read the previous books✨
♥️Thank you so much Jen Lynning for the gifted copy, I'm so very grateful for the opportunity! all opinions are my own♥️
▸Incubus looking for true love
▸Incubus x human
▸Courtship lessons
▸Political intrigue
▸He feeds through touch
▸Schemes
▸She coaches him
▸Completed series
▸Interconnected standalone
▸Dual POV
we meet again with Brevin in this book!✨ Brevin hopelessly wants to find his true love made him so blind that he can't see that the woman he wants, Karreni, is not the right person for him, several times he doesn't listen to his friends' advice, until finally he meets Selona. Selona's pleasant demeanor immediately makes them close, knowing Brevin's situation, Selona doesn't try to make him stay away from Karreni—but becomes his coach in approaching her, so that Brevin can open his eyes and realize it himself
I usually pick up this author's books whatever it is because I'm always sure of a wonderful read lol. and this book, although filled with a strong political intrigued nuance, doesn't make this book boring. I feel that this book is balanced between the political plot and the romance, making this book even more exciting at the climax. I just loved the pace and flow of the story, Brevin and Selona also have a great chemistry, and I'm happy with the appearance of characters from the previous books!🥰 Overall I loved this final book, delighted to have read this series and hope everyone gets a chance to read and enjoy!🤩 this book is the final book of the interconnected standalone: Treaties of Moial series, you can just jump in and read but it really helps to read the previous books✨
♥️Thank you so much Jen Lynning for the gifted copy, I'm so very grateful for the opportunity! all opinions are my own♥️
June 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.7 but I’m rounding up!
Quote that made me clutch my pearls:
“I am in awe of your brilliance. You make me question what I thought I knew, forcing me to grow, change, become a better person. I live in anticipation of your next thought.”
Dual POV 👩❤️👨
Political Intrigue 👩⚖️
Love Triangle Vibes 🧑🧒🧒
Friends to Lovers 💞
Slow Burn 🔥
So Much Pining 🥵
One On-Page Spicy Scene 🌶️
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review.
This is the sixth installment in the Treaties of Moial series, and it is such a good time! It’s the third book I’ve read in the series, and the themes remain consistent—political intrigue, mixed magical races, and the evolution of kingdoms and how they function.
I have to say… this is my favorite one so far! Incubus’ Scheme tackles the stigma the incubus/succubus magical race faces due to their need to feed on emotions to survive. They must! And it’s so interesting to see how that narrative is explored and challenged in this book. 🥹
Naturally, you can imagine that leads to a lot of sexy tension… 😏
What you can always expect in Jen Lynning’s books is a beautifully built bond between two characters that is just so scrumptious. It’s the conversations—between the action and behind closed doors—that make you fall in love with Brevin and Selona.
I highly recommend this book. It’s cozy high fantasy with political teeth and always ends with good vibes! 🥰
Quote that made me clutch my pearls:
“I am in awe of your brilliance. You make me question what I thought I knew, forcing me to grow, change, become a better person. I live in anticipation of your next thought.”
Dual POV 👩❤️👨
Political Intrigue 👩⚖️
Love Triangle Vibes 🧑🧒🧒
Friends to Lovers 💞
Slow Burn 🔥
So Much Pining 🥵
One On-Page Spicy Scene 🌶️
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a review.
This is the sixth installment in the Treaties of Moial series, and it is such a good time! It’s the third book I’ve read in the series, and the themes remain consistent—political intrigue, mixed magical races, and the evolution of kingdoms and how they function.
I have to say… this is my favorite one so far! Incubus’ Scheme tackles the stigma the incubus/succubus magical race faces due to their need to feed on emotions to survive. They must! And it’s so interesting to see how that narrative is explored and challenged in this book. 🥹
Naturally, you can imagine that leads to a lot of sexy tension… 😏
What you can always expect in Jen Lynning’s books is a beautifully built bond between two characters that is just so scrumptious. It’s the conversations—between the action and behind closed doors—that make you fall in love with Brevin and Selona.
I highly recommend this book. It’s cozy high fantasy with political teeth and always ends with good vibes! 🥰
June 20, 2025
What a lovely end to this now long-running series - there was great symmetry in returning to the story of an incubus (as in Book 1) and Incubus's Scheme ties up the narratives of some beloved characters. As always, the combination of romantasy with heavy political manoeuvring/machinations is what makes Treaties of Moial stand out in the genre - with the balance and interplay between the two spot on.
I enjoyed Brevin and Selona (and I think Jen Lynning writes best with dual-narrative perspective, making them both well-rounded, intelligent characters) but relationships with another person involved/love triangles - even handled well, like here - just aren't my favourite trope and probably knocked off a star from my review. The trope is clear from the blurb, so that's on me, not the author, I was just so eager to read the last book! I may not re-read this one again for that reason, but it did want make me want to go back and pick up Empath's Lure again.
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Brevin and Selona (and I think Jen Lynning writes best with dual-narrative perspective, making them both well-rounded, intelligent characters) but relationships with another person involved/love triangles - even handled well, like here - just aren't my favourite trope and probably knocked off a star from my review. The trope is clear from the blurb, so that's on me, not the author, I was just so eager to read the last book! I may not re-read this one again for that reason, but it did want make me want to go back and pick up Empath's Lure again.
Disclaimer: I received an advance copy courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2025
Bittersweet; so sad to see the end of the series, but what a finale!
The minute I realized the FMC's rival was an uptight politician named Karen--oh, sorry, "Karreni" of course, it is a fantasy setting after all--I knew I was in for a wild ride.
I am not someone who is overly interested in politics, so I was a bit nervous when I read that it was such a major theme for the book, but the author did an amazing job of focusing on the bigger picture of what our schemers were trying to achieve rather than getting bogged down in the minutia of who needed to be positioned where to get everything to fall into place. The couple's focus on making life better for their respective peoples left me cheering for their schemes and machinations.
Selona and Brevin are so satisfyingly competent and make such a wonderful team, and are the type of couple that are such a joy to read about because they realistically enjoy their time together and just match so well that you can imagine them being happy together for the rest of their lives.
I would highly recommend the entire Treaties of Moial series and this book in particular. I couldn't have asked for a better finale!
*ARC review, all opinions are my own.
The minute I realized the FMC's rival was an uptight politician named Karen--oh, sorry, "Karreni" of course, it is a fantasy setting after all--I knew I was in for a wild ride.
I am not someone who is overly interested in politics, so I was a bit nervous when I read that it was such a major theme for the book, but the author did an amazing job of focusing on the bigger picture of what our schemers were trying to achieve rather than getting bogged down in the minutia of who needed to be positioned where to get everything to fall into place. The couple's focus on making life better for their respective peoples left me cheering for their schemes and machinations.
Selona and Brevin are so satisfyingly competent and make such a wonderful team, and are the type of couple that are such a joy to read about because they realistically enjoy their time together and just match so well that you can imagine them being happy together for the rest of their lives.
I would highly recommend the entire Treaties of Moial series and this book in particular. I couldn't have asked for a better finale!
*ARC review, all opinions are my own.
June 26, 2025
I really enjoy the Treaties of Moial series, and must admit I'm a little sad to see it end. It feels right for the series to come full circle and end on a story of political intrigue with an incubus hero, much as it began. There is so much fertile ground for exploring desire and consent with a hero who needs emotional sustenance (ideally lust) to survive. Brevin is a very different character from Khiran, and raised in a different environment where his magical kind is less rare, but his struggles of balancing his physical and emotional needs are no less real. I enjoyed seeing him navigate the pressures of his powers and fight against stereotypes of his kind. Selona is an excellent complement to him especially since she comes from a very different perspective and had the openness and insight to accept him on his own terms.
I highly recommend this entire series for fans of gaslamp fantasy who like a good dose of political intrigue with their romance. The stories stand alone, in that they explore new couples in new situations, but the series is probably best enjoyed in order.
I highly recommend this entire series for fans of gaslamp fantasy who like a good dose of political intrigue with their romance. The stories stand alone, in that they explore new couples in new situations, but the series is probably best enjoyed in order.
June 26, 2025
We have come full circle with a final incubus/human romance!
This is a standalone story in the Treaties of Moial series, and a meatier entry at that. The romance involves Brevin and Selona, and for a story centering on an incubus, still includes quite the slow burn romance. Lynning weaves a political intrigue around an almost Cyrano inspired romance (at least at the start). While initially Brevin’s interest is elsewhere, I wouldn’t classify it as a strong love triangle for those that don’t enjoy that trope. Instead, Incubus’s Scheme is aptly named as a political/gaslamp/fantasy romance.
I enjoyed the familiar faces and world building, and as always, the non-European inspired fantasy setting. This is not my favorite volume of the Treaties of Moial (that would be Empath’s Lure), but it is a strong and satisfying conclusion to a fun fantasy romance series that I am happy to have completed.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
This is a standalone story in the Treaties of Moial series, and a meatier entry at that. The romance involves Brevin and Selona, and for a story centering on an incubus, still includes quite the slow burn romance. Lynning weaves a political intrigue around an almost Cyrano inspired romance (at least at the start). While initially Brevin’s interest is elsewhere, I wouldn’t classify it as a strong love triangle for those that don’t enjoy that trope. Instead, Incubus’s Scheme is aptly named as a political/gaslamp/fantasy romance.
I enjoyed the familiar faces and world building, and as always, the non-European inspired fantasy setting. This is not my favorite volume of the Treaties of Moial (that would be Empath’s Lure), but it is a strong and satisfying conclusion to a fun fantasy romance series that I am happy to have completed.
Thank you to the author for an ARC of the novel in exchange for my honest review.
July 13, 2025
This was fun. I didn’t read the other books in the series yet and followed along pretty good (except for all the political stuff…….that is not my strong suit 🤣) I have read other books by Jen so I know her writing style. I really liked Brevin and Selona together! Most of the time tho I wanted to smack Brevin in the head for not seeing shit!
Ya the political stuff went right over my head and was lost in some of it half the time, but the tension and scheming around it was fun. Jen always writes such complex and intelligent characters. It certainly keeps you interested. A good cozy, low stakes, gas-lamp Romantasy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
Ya the political stuff went right over my head and was lost in some of it half the time, but the tension and scheming around it was fun. Jen always writes such complex and intelligent characters. It certainly keeps you interested. A good cozy, low stakes, gas-lamp Romantasy!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
July 5, 2025
Don’t be lured by charm
‘Feeding isn’t supposed to be parasitic; it is supposed to be an exchange.’
Casual-only touch is not fulfilling for everyone, let alone for an incubus. Yes, feeding from a stranger still replenishes energy but it does not nourish as it would from a caring donor. I appreciate how the author weaves boundaries and consent into this tale.
Human relationships have waaaaay too many rules. Brevin is very fortunate to have met with such a mentor as Selona. She’s new enough to town to not have her own entanglements, yet worldly enough to offer him some great advice on how to handle his human fiancée:
‘Courtship is all about the show. You have to exaggerate and manipulate situations so that you can highlight your suitability.’
But when you find yourself defending your choice of romantic interest to people who care about you, it’s time to rethink your choice of partner.
Fave line:
‘The true show was the ebb and flow of the attendees. Selona’s favorite type of performance.’
‘Incubi [and succubae both] need contact to survive’, as do humans. May we each receive the attention & touch that our psyches crave - without having to compromise our affection, morals, or self-control. An added bonus of that person enjoys the same schemes you do!
‘Feeding isn’t supposed to be parasitic; it is supposed to be an exchange.’
Casual-only touch is not fulfilling for everyone, let alone for an incubus. Yes, feeding from a stranger still replenishes energy but it does not nourish as it would from a caring donor. I appreciate how the author weaves boundaries and consent into this tale.
Human relationships have waaaaay too many rules. Brevin is very fortunate to have met with such a mentor as Selona. She’s new enough to town to not have her own entanglements, yet worldly enough to offer him some great advice on how to handle his human fiancée:
‘Courtship is all about the show. You have to exaggerate and manipulate situations so that you can highlight your suitability.’
But when you find yourself defending your choice of romantic interest to people who care about you, it’s time to rethink your choice of partner.
Fave line:
‘The true show was the ebb and flow of the attendees. Selona’s favorite type of performance.’
‘Incubi [and succubae both] need contact to survive’, as do humans. May we each receive the attention & touch that our psyches crave - without having to compromise our affection, morals, or self-control. An added bonus of that person enjoys the same schemes you do!
June 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this book carrying on brevins journey . It’s full of angst spice and mystery. Their story is intense and exciting. I can’t wait to see what happens next I really don’t want to leave any spoilers as this book is so full of twists and turns !! Roll on the next book ❤️
June 26, 2025
I want to be Selona when I grow up. She’s confident and smart and always has a scheme in the works. Brevin is adorable and sweet and the perfect little cinnamon roll. This was a perfect conclusion to this series that has stolen my heart 💗
June 26, 2025
Oh I love love love all these political scheming, little jabs, witty comments, court politics, adorable characters; and of course the romance!
Sadly this is the last visit to Moial, but I'm very grateful for this book and the five prior (and maybe JL can find another couple for a seventh book?)
Sadly this is the last visit to Moial, but I'm very grateful for this book and the five prior (and maybe JL can find another couple for a seventh book?)
July 4, 2025
I’ve only read a couple books in this series, but I’ve really enjoyed both of them! The characters and world building are compelling, and Incubus’s Scheme in particular felt like it had more politicking and, of course, scheming, which I loved- I really liked seeing how different plans unfolded, and while I would’ve loved to see Selona and Brevin have more time together where the OW wasn’t hanging over their heads, I still enjoyed watching their friendship grow into something more throughout the book.
Selona is thoughtful, adventurous, perceptive, and cunning. She also has the emotional intelligence and compartmentalization to be able to figure out what would be the most helpful for Brevin’s situation. She tries to accept and respect his decisions and the rules he’s created for himself, even if she doesn’t agree with them.
Poor Brevin. As an incubus, he’s naturally tactile and affectionate; it’s instinctual and necessary. Yet he has to withhold all of it (except to barely feed from Selona), and who he is as a person and incubus, because of the woman he’s courting. It’s painful and so sad to read. I just want to hug the poor guy. But he’s so lost for (the idea of) her and for proving himself as trustworthy to their entire society, that he constantly questions himself, then makes excuses for her behavior.
For anyone who has ever watched a person they care about be in a relationship with someone who is abusive, manipulative, or just generally bad for them, this book will be highly relatable. Selona has to consider what will support Brevin best and keep him safe, while also trying not to push him away by being honest about how she sees the other woman treating him. It’s a really tricky line to walk- in the book and in real life - and Lynning described the experience so compellingly.
My one complaint is that it feels like every maneuver in the book is explained. Sometimes, when it comes to being unfamiliar with the world and nuances of humans/incubi/sprites, those explanations can be helpful. But just generally speaking, we don’t need the reasoning for every decision spelled out for us. I have a really hard time staying immersed in books that do this, and the characters end up feeling less compelling to me. (But this could just be a me problem)
Selona is thoughtful, adventurous, perceptive, and cunning. She also has the emotional intelligence and compartmentalization to be able to figure out what would be the most helpful for Brevin’s situation. She tries to accept and respect his decisions and the rules he’s created for himself, even if she doesn’t agree with them.
Poor Brevin. As an incubus, he’s naturally tactile and affectionate; it’s instinctual and necessary. Yet he has to withhold all of it (except to barely feed from Selona), and who he is as a person and incubus, because of the woman he’s courting. It’s painful and so sad to read. I just want to hug the poor guy. But he’s so lost for (the idea of) her and for proving himself as trustworthy to their entire society, that he constantly questions himself, then makes excuses for her behavior.
For anyone who has ever watched a person they care about be in a relationship with someone who is abusive, manipulative, or just generally bad for them, this book will be highly relatable. Selona has to consider what will support Brevin best and keep him safe, while also trying not to push him away by being honest about how she sees the other woman treating him. It’s a really tricky line to walk- in the book and in real life - and Lynning described the experience so compellingly.
My one complaint is that it feels like every maneuver in the book is explained. Sometimes, when it comes to being unfamiliar with the world and nuances of humans/incubi/sprites, those explanations can be helpful. But just generally speaking, we don’t need the reasoning for every decision spelled out for us. I have a really hard time staying immersed in books that do this, and the characters end up feeling less compelling to me. (But this could just be a me problem)
July 24, 2025
I don't have the eloquence to express how much I love this series, and how each new book is even better than the last. I can never put the book down until I'm finished and I'm always smiling when I finish.
Selona and Brevin were amazing. My heart ached for Brevin from the very beginning and I was so happy when he and Selona met. I was so upset that he was unable to see what was really going on and relieved when he finally did. The relationship between them was lovely to watch.
Selona and Brevin were amazing. My heart ached for Brevin from the very beginning and I was so happy when he and Selona met. I was so upset that he was unable to see what was really going on and relieved when he finally did. The relationship between them was lovely to watch.
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