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Jaga and the Devil #3
Devil's Dance
Slawa’s gods are at war, and I am the prize they fight for.I am broken. A piece of my soul burned away, leaving me hollow and unfeeling. I wander the caverns of Nawie, the only place that’s not entirely unsafe. When I can’t stand the boredom of a life with no meaning, I amuse myself watching Woland’s pitiful attempts to atone.
He grovels. He begs. He brings me gifts. His despair grows deeper with every shake of my head. Oh, how well he lies.
Little does he know, nothing will make me trust him again. And if that broken part of my soul ever heals, I will rip it out and destroy it.
Because Woland was right. Love is a terrible weakness.
The final book in the Jaga and the Devil trilogy will come out on the winter solstice.
He grovels. He begs. He brings me gifts. His despair grows deeper with every shake of my head. Oh, how well he lies.
Little does he know, nothing will make me trust him again. And if that broken part of my soul ever heals, I will rip it out and destroy it.
Because Woland was right. Love is a terrible weakness.
The final book in the Jaga and the Devil trilogy will come out on the winter solstice.
504 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 21, 2025
299 people are currently reading
2048 people want to read
About the author
Layla Fae
44 books2,129 followersSign up for my newsletter: here.
Layla Fae writes steamy monster romance of many varieties. Fluffy or dark, with TWs ranging from flavored monster essence used as food to blood play and dark taboo romance, she explores the fantasy of monster love from various angles.
She is not an author for the faint of heart.
Layla Fae writes steamy monster romance of many varieties. Fluffy or dark, with TWs ranging from flavored monster essence used as food to blood play and dark taboo romance, she explores the fantasy of monster love from various angles.
She is not an author for the faint of heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 24, 2025
I’m actually really disappointed 😔 I was expecting something epic and it just didn’t cut it for me.
I understand the rebirth and overcoming of trauma but that was so exaggerated, exhausting, and dragged out. I don’t think it was executed to its full potential.
It was so much back and forth between Jaga, Weles, & Woland that it’s very repetitive and sappy but now Jaga is the morally black character (which is great until it’s overplayed).
I really wanted Weles to be more than what his character was given. I was not expecting him to be such a depressing, cowardice character. He ruined the book for me.
I loved Chors in all three books and he has such a good backstory which I’m happy to have seen more come to fruition in this one. I looked forward to his appearances than anything else.
The war they faced since the beginning wasn’t pushed into this finale as much as I wanted. I figured an epic war between gods but it was a doozy. Perun was written perfectly and his encounter with Jaga was great.
I did enjoy all the revenge that Jaga was able to get because she became ruthless however, her tantrums, scoffing, and bickering made my eyes roll 🙄
The ending was cute but all that back and forth was for nothing and now I’m left sad because I was highly anticipating this book. Book two was my favorite of all.
I understand the rebirth and overcoming of trauma but that was so exaggerated, exhausting, and dragged out. I don’t think it was executed to its full potential.
It was so much back and forth between Jaga, Weles, & Woland that it’s very repetitive and sappy but now Jaga is the morally black character (which is great until it’s overplayed).
I really wanted Weles to be more than what his character was given. I was not expecting him to be such a depressing, cowardice character. He ruined the book for me.
I loved Chors in all three books and he has such a good backstory which I’m happy to have seen more come to fruition in this one. I looked forward to his appearances than anything else.
The war they faced since the beginning wasn’t pushed into this finale as much as I wanted. I figured an epic war between gods but it was a doozy. Perun was written perfectly and his encounter with Jaga was great.
I did enjoy all the revenge that Jaga was able to get because she became ruthless however, her tantrums, scoffing, and bickering made my eyes roll 🙄
The ending was cute but all that back and forth was for nothing and now I’m left sad because I was highly anticipating this book. Book two was my favorite of all.
December 16, 2025
ARC Review
I closed the final page of this trilogy and just sat there, letting it settle. This story is relentless in the best way. It understands that survival is not the same as healing, and that love does not always arrive as gentleness.
What stayed with me most was the balance the narrative explores: light and dark, rage and restraint, indifference and devotion. Power here is not loud or dominating. It grows through surrender, through choice, through the willingness to be seen and claimed rather than conquered.
The characters are beautifully fractured. There is a rawness to the way pain shapes them, and an even greater beauty in how they continue anyway. Feminine rage is given space to exist without apology, while despair and yearning are allowed to transform rather than destroy.
This finale doesn’t seek easy victories. It understands that some wars are won not by force, but by yielding, and that love, when chosen freely, can be the most dangerous power of all.
This trilogy will stay with me for a long time. It’s unruly, emotional, and quietly devastating in all the right ways.
Raquel (The Ink Addicts Reads)
I closed the final page of this trilogy and just sat there, letting it settle. This story is relentless in the best way. It understands that survival is not the same as healing, and that love does not always arrive as gentleness.
What stayed with me most was the balance the narrative explores: light and dark, rage and restraint, indifference and devotion. Power here is not loud or dominating. It grows through surrender, through choice, through the willingness to be seen and claimed rather than conquered.
The characters are beautifully fractured. There is a rawness to the way pain shapes them, and an even greater beauty in how they continue anyway. Feminine rage is given space to exist without apology, while despair and yearning are allowed to transform rather than destroy.
This finale doesn’t seek easy victories. It understands that some wars are won not by force, but by yielding, and that love, when chosen freely, can be the most dangerous power of all.
This trilogy will stay with me for a long time. It’s unruly, emotional, and quietly devastating in all the right ways.
Raquel (The Ink Addicts Reads)
October 9, 2025
I already just know it’s gonna be amazing. Since August 7th, I’ve wanted to read this book and I KNOW that’s not a “long” time, but it feels like fucking years!! I can’t believe you left us like that hun! 😂 I was so shocked, I’m pretty sure you looked at Rebecca yarros cliffhanger and said “Challenge accepted”. I forget what happens in books Almost right after I’m done reading them (horrible memory issues) yet this book series…. I haven’t been able to get it out of my head.. 😂 I just can’t believe it. I really really hope you’ve made the devil in this book absolutely GROVEL. I think that’s why I’m so excited as well, i can feel it in your writing that you won’t make this character someone who easily forgives. I always wanna smack myself (I do actually..) and the FMC when they do that, but you… I have a good feeling. I can’t wait, I really really can’t wait. God why can’t it hurry up!! I want time to speed up but also want time to slow for you so you don’t freak out on writing it, that shit is a LOT of pressure. My birthday’s on the 18th of December and sure, I’m excited about turning 20 but what I’m most excited about is the fact that it’s 3 days away from the 21st 😂
—
Anywayyy, I love your writing and I absolutely can’t wait to see what happens in this book. :))
Respectfully, a loving reader. 🫀
—
Anywayyy, I love your writing and I absolutely can’t wait to see what happens in this book. :))
Respectfully, a loving reader. 🫀
December 23, 2025
Not going to lie, I am disappointed in the book. Seemed like a lot of waffling and I’ve been counting down the months/weeks for this to release. More like a 1.5
December 23, 2025
I found this book incredibly frustrating - Yaga becomes sulky, selfish and oppositional way beyond logic and past character behaviour.
The conflict between the characters doesn’t get resolved til about 90% and while I enjoyed reading from another perspective, Vêles becomes very sexually submissive and not really my cup of tea.
The ending was good. The rest of it very mixed.
The conflict between the characters doesn’t get resolved til about 90% and while I enjoyed reading from another perspective, Vêles becomes very sexually submissive and not really my cup of tea.
The ending was good. The rest of it very mixed.
December 14, 2025
This was my most anticipated ARC read of 2025. I read it in 13 hours today after it arrived in my inbox this morning. I might have to revise my review in a couple days when I have had more time to process it all but let’s see if I can get my initial thoughts and feelings into something coherent at least while it’s this fresh.
I am so invested in these characters and their stories that I’ve been dying for book 3. The first two books literally had me in a chokehold and are still some of the best books I have read. I want to start by saying the ending for the trilogy wraps up neatly and made me so happy that we get our HARD EARNED happily ever after. Man was that truly earned and I was worried we might not get it. But let’s get into the nitty gritty.
Okay, so I’ll admit I wanted Woland to suffer. To grovel. To pine and sacrifice and be forced to endure the consequences of his mistakes. Boy oh boy did he ever. I can’t believe i’m saying this but he suffered almost too much…
The indifference in the first couple chapters had me applauding Jaga like it was my fifth round of a standing ovation encore. YES QUEEN MAKE HIM BEG. I am all about making men face the consequences of their actions, holding them responsible and making them work for it. However … this is where I kinda struggled with this book. We don’t get ANY form of reconciliation until 70% into the story. I feel like I screwed myself by wanting him to suffer so much because of everything he has done in previous books, that I didn’t realize if it lasted this long we would lose out on so much of their chemistry. The tension, passion, banter, yearning (mutual) was lacking for so much of the story. I think those things were such a strong part of books 1&2 that it made me feel like something was missing this time around.
The pace also felt much slower. I was halfway through the story and realized that nothing of much importance had happened yet. There was one intense scene with Perun trying to kidnap Weles to enslave him. Other than that, the first half of the book was literally just Jaga torturing Weles by being indifferent, Weles/Woland failing to make amends + pouting, and then Jaga physically torturing all the people she deemed worthy of her revenge in more gruesome ways than even Woland would do. I missed the quicker pace, action that moved the story along, romantic enemy/lover tension and even the betrayal from the first two books.
The real action / drama comes at about 90% in so to me it didn’t quite live up to the all encompassing obsession I had with the first two books. Those made me feel SO. MANY. EMOTIONS. so deeply, while this one didn’t evoke as much from me until the end.
With all that said, let’s talk about the brilliant things Layla did because she is still one of my all time favorite artist and anyone who loves this series is of course going to enjoy wrapping up our Jaga & Devils twisted toxic love story. I really enjoyed the mind bond. I will never not love a MC & FC ability to speak mind to mind. I feel like this books also gives us more character building. We discover all the back stories about what had happened between Weles, Perun, and the other gods in more detail. We learn so much more about their motivations and how they have changed through the centuries. It doesn’t excuse their behavior but it definitely makes you understand them and empathize / relate to them on deeper levels.
Im also so excited that we got more of some of the side characters storylines and hopefully this isn’t the end for many of them! I’m especially looking at you sweet Chors since we know he’s getting his own story in the Fairytales from Slawa series with book 1: Follow the Moon !
As always with dark romance make sure you read trigger warnings.
Finally, thank you to the author once again for the honor of receiving this eARC. I will never stop reading her books!
I am so invested in these characters and their stories that I’ve been dying for book 3. The first two books literally had me in a chokehold and are still some of the best books I have read. I want to start by saying the ending for the trilogy wraps up neatly and made me so happy that we get our HARD EARNED happily ever after. Man was that truly earned and I was worried we might not get it. But let’s get into the nitty gritty.
Okay, so I’ll admit I wanted Woland to suffer. To grovel. To pine and sacrifice and be forced to endure the consequences of his mistakes. Boy oh boy did he ever. I can’t believe i’m saying this but he suffered almost too much…
The indifference in the first couple chapters had me applauding Jaga like it was my fifth round of a standing ovation encore. YES QUEEN MAKE HIM BEG. I am all about making men face the consequences of their actions, holding them responsible and making them work for it. However … this is where I kinda struggled with this book. We don’t get ANY form of reconciliation until 70% into the story. I feel like I screwed myself by wanting him to suffer so much because of everything he has done in previous books, that I didn’t realize if it lasted this long we would lose out on so much of their chemistry. The tension, passion, banter, yearning (mutual) was lacking for so much of the story. I think those things were such a strong part of books 1&2 that it made me feel like something was missing this time around.
The pace also felt much slower. I was halfway through the story and realized that nothing of much importance had happened yet. There was one intense scene with Perun trying to kidnap Weles to enslave him. Other than that, the first half of the book was literally just Jaga torturing Weles by being indifferent, Weles/Woland failing to make amends + pouting, and then Jaga physically torturing all the people she deemed worthy of her revenge in more gruesome ways than even Woland would do. I missed the quicker pace, action that moved the story along, romantic enemy/lover tension and even the betrayal from the first two books.
The real action / drama comes at about 90% in so to me it didn’t quite live up to the all encompassing obsession I had with the first two books. Those made me feel SO. MANY. EMOTIONS. so deeply, while this one didn’t evoke as much from me until the end.
With all that said, let’s talk about the brilliant things Layla did because she is still one of my all time favorite artist and anyone who loves this series is of course going to enjoy wrapping up our Jaga & Devils twisted toxic love story. I really enjoyed the mind bond. I will never not love a MC & FC ability to speak mind to mind. I feel like this books also gives us more character building. We discover all the back stories about what had happened between Weles, Perun, and the other gods in more detail. We learn so much more about their motivations and how they have changed through the centuries. It doesn’t excuse their behavior but it definitely makes you understand them and empathize / relate to them on deeper levels.
Im also so excited that we got more of some of the side characters storylines and hopefully this isn’t the end for many of them! I’m especially looking at you sweet Chors since we know he’s getting his own story in the Fairytales from Slawa series with book 1: Follow the Moon !
As always with dark romance make sure you read trigger warnings.
Finally, thank you to the author once again for the honor of receiving this eARC. I will never stop reading her books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
I completely devoured this book in the less than 24 hours that it's been available.
I absolutely loved that the story was told primarily in Weles's point of view and that he was obsessive without being annoying about it. Seeing him actually beg for Jaga and seeing him grow in his way of loving her was fantastic. After the lies and deceit of the last two books it was nice to finally have a break full of honesty. My heart ached for Weles.
There were a few things that stood out to me the most though that I do wish were different.
The first, I felt like there was a lot of modern styled speaking that I don't really feel was present in the previous books. At one point, Woland outright says "my bad". I wish that wasn't as prevalent but it wasn't a deal breaker.
I also felt like the pacing was also a bit slow. I thought there would be consistently more action like we saw in the previous two books. I wish there was more. Honestly I feel like this is something I see pretty frequently in Layla Fae's books, so I'm not too surprised but I do always want more to the plot.
Overall though I love this entire series and it's in my top reads for the year. Even though the pacing was slow in this one, I still never felt bored and looked forward to every single chapter. Jaga is one of my favorite FMC's and i'm so glad she got her revenge in every form it took
I absolutely loved that the story was told primarily in Weles's point of view and that he was obsessive without being annoying about it. Seeing him actually beg for Jaga and seeing him grow in his way of loving her was fantastic. After the lies and deceit of the last two books it was nice to finally have a break full of honesty. My heart ached for Weles.
There were a few things that stood out to me the most though that I do wish were different.
The first, I felt like there was a lot of modern styled speaking that I don't really feel was present in the previous books. At one point, Woland outright says "my bad". I wish that wasn't as prevalent but it wasn't a deal breaker.
I also felt like the pacing was also a bit slow. I thought there would be consistently more action like we saw in the previous two books. I wish there was more. Honestly I feel like this is something I see pretty frequently in Layla Fae's books, so I'm not too surprised but I do always want more to the plot.
Overall though I love this entire series and it's in my top reads for the year. Even though the pacing was slow in this one, I still never felt bored and looked forward to every single chapter. Jaga is one of my favorite FMC's and i'm so glad she got her revenge in every form it took
December 23, 2025
A perfect ending to Jaga's and the Devils story. Although the fight never seems to really leave them. I love how everything was written, and what happened to the characters. Both the good things, and the very bad things. This is a story I am said to say I have finished.
December 31, 2025
All that growth and strength jaga gained only to have it end the way it did felt like a slap in the face.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 🌟
// 🇺🇸 review bellow //
Nežinau kodėl, bet man ši knyga skaitėsi gan sunkiai. Gal todėl, kad pirmos dvi knygos buvo iš MFC perspektyvos, o ši iš MMC?
Ir nemeluosiu, bet esu šiek tiek nusivylusi. Pirmos dvi dalys buvo absoliutūs masterpieces! Jų pabaigos paliko mane bet žado ir amo. Šiai trečiajai daliai turėjau gan aukštus reikalavimus, kurių deja ji nepasiekė.
Knygoje tęsiasi Jagos istorija bei karas tarp dievų. Laimės tas, kuriam priklausys Jaga. Tai realiai iki pat paskutinių puslapių yra tempiama guma. Nežinau man šiek tiek per daug teksto knygoje, kartais toks jausmas apimdavo lyg kažkoks trauk/stumk turinys. Vienas žingsnis pirmyn, du atgal. Jaga spyriojosi visur kur tik galėjo kas šiek tiek vargino ir net vietomis tapo nuobodoka.
Bet aplamai pati knygos tema ir pati istorija unikali, nes joje naudojami slavų mitologijos motyvai, bei lenkiško folkloro mitinės būtybės. Nemažai netikėtų posūkių knygoje, patiko, jog papildomi veikėjai puikiai papildė istoriją visiškai neužgoždami pagrindinių herojų.
Naują autorės seriją Fairy Tales From Slawa su būtent šios serijos extra veikėjais būtinai skaitysiu.
🇺🇸:
3.5 🌟
For some reason, this book was quite a difficult read for me. Perhaps it was because the first two installments were told from the FMC’s perspective, while this one shifts to the MMC’s point of view. Whatever the reason, I couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed.
The first two books were absolute masterpieces! Their endings left me completely speechless. Naturally, I went into the third installment with very high expectations, and unfortunately, it didn’t quite live up to them. The story continues to follow Jaga and the ongoing war between the gods, where victory belongs to whoever claims her. This central conflict is stretched almost until the very last pages, and at times it felt like the plot was being dragged out unnecessarily.
There were moments when the book felt overly long, with a frustrating push-and-pull dynamic: one step forward, two steps back. Jaga’s constant resistance became tiring, and in some places, the story even drifted into boredom for me.
That said, the core concept and overall story remain genuinely unique. The use of Slavic mythology and mythical creatures from Polish folklore gives the book a distinctive atmosphere. There are plenty of unexpected twists, and I really appreciated how the supporting characters enriched the narrative without overshadowing the main protagonists.
Despite my mixed feelings about this installment, I’m certain I’ll read the author’s new series, Fairy Tales From Slawa, especially since it features side characters from this world.
// 🇺🇸 review bellow //
Nežinau kodėl, bet man ši knyga skaitėsi gan sunkiai. Gal todėl, kad pirmos dvi knygos buvo iš MFC perspektyvos, o ši iš MMC?
Ir nemeluosiu, bet esu šiek tiek nusivylusi. Pirmos dvi dalys buvo absoliutūs masterpieces! Jų pabaigos paliko mane bet žado ir amo. Šiai trečiajai daliai turėjau gan aukštus reikalavimus, kurių deja ji nepasiekė.
Knygoje tęsiasi Jagos istorija bei karas tarp dievų. Laimės tas, kuriam priklausys Jaga. Tai realiai iki pat paskutinių puslapių yra tempiama guma. Nežinau man šiek tiek per daug teksto knygoje, kartais toks jausmas apimdavo lyg kažkoks trauk/stumk turinys. Vienas žingsnis pirmyn, du atgal. Jaga spyriojosi visur kur tik galėjo kas šiek tiek vargino ir net vietomis tapo nuobodoka.
Bet aplamai pati knygos tema ir pati istorija unikali, nes joje naudojami slavų mitologijos motyvai, bei lenkiško folkloro mitinės būtybės. Nemažai netikėtų posūkių knygoje, patiko, jog papildomi veikėjai puikiai papildė istoriją visiškai neužgoždami pagrindinių herojų.
Naują autorės seriją Fairy Tales From Slawa su būtent šios serijos extra veikėjais būtinai skaitysiu.
🇺🇸:
3.5 🌟
For some reason, this book was quite a difficult read for me. Perhaps it was because the first two installments were told from the FMC’s perspective, while this one shifts to the MMC’s point of view. Whatever the reason, I couldn’t help but feel a bit disappointed.
The first two books were absolute masterpieces! Their endings left me completely speechless. Naturally, I went into the third installment with very high expectations, and unfortunately, it didn’t quite live up to them. The story continues to follow Jaga and the ongoing war between the gods, where victory belongs to whoever claims her. This central conflict is stretched almost until the very last pages, and at times it felt like the plot was being dragged out unnecessarily.
There were moments when the book felt overly long, with a frustrating push-and-pull dynamic: one step forward, two steps back. Jaga’s constant resistance became tiring, and in some places, the story even drifted into boredom for me.
That said, the core concept and overall story remain genuinely unique. The use of Slavic mythology and mythical creatures from Polish folklore gives the book a distinctive atmosphere. There are plenty of unexpected twists, and I really appreciated how the supporting characters enriched the narrative without overshadowing the main protagonists.
Despite my mixed feelings about this installment, I’m certain I’ll read the author’s new series, Fairy Tales From Slawa, especially since it features side characters from this world.
December 30, 2025
She was never meant to survive. He was never meant to love. Together, they end a world and build their own.
Jaga should have died at twelve. Instead, she’s saved by something impossible and becomes the center of a prophecy no god can ignore. Hollowed by betrayal and burned by magic, she retreats to the underworld of Nawie, where the god who once destroyed her keeps returning with gifts, apologies, and a desperation she won’t forgive. Weles says he loves her. Woland lies beautifully. She trusts neither.
When war fractures the gods of Slawa, Jaga becomes more than a target. She’s a threat, a prize, a catalyst for change. But she doesn’t bow. Not to fate, not to prophecy, and not to the god who tried to own her.
As the storm builds, Jaga learns to command time, turns death into a weapon, and faces the truth buried in her past. Weles, torn between guilt and devotion, teaches her everything except how to let go. Their bond is obsession. Their intimacy is battle. When everything burns, Jaga must choose what’s worth saving.
To kill a god, she has to believe. In power. In herself. And in him.
Jaga grows from a sharp, broken girl into a goddess who reshapes fate on her own terms. Weles sheds manipulation for surrender, obsession for love, and power for trust. They shift from enemies locked in control to two souls bound by choice, pain, and something neither expected to survive.
This isn’t a love story. It’s a reckoning.
A dark, steamy, enemies to lovers, god x witch, forced proximity, soul-bond romantasy rooted in Slavic folklore, tangled in betrayal, prophecy, obsession, and impossible choices. It’s about how power, belief, trauma, and love collide to break and rebuild identity, where survival demands destruction and transformation. At its core, it’s about a girl who refuses to die, a god who learns to kneel, and a bond forged in blood, magic, and the kind of trust that scars.
The Elevator Pitch: A dark, spellbound romantasy where a witch refuses to kneel and a god learns what it means to break. Their bond is forged in obsession, betrayal, and the kind of love that reshapes fate. Haunting, seductive, and full of magic, it’s intense, emotional, and a powerful close to the trilogy.
Jaga should have died at twelve. Instead, she’s saved by something impossible and becomes the center of a prophecy no god can ignore. Hollowed by betrayal and burned by magic, she retreats to the underworld of Nawie, where the god who once destroyed her keeps returning with gifts, apologies, and a desperation she won’t forgive. Weles says he loves her. Woland lies beautifully. She trusts neither.
When war fractures the gods of Slawa, Jaga becomes more than a target. She’s a threat, a prize, a catalyst for change. But she doesn’t bow. Not to fate, not to prophecy, and not to the god who tried to own her.
As the storm builds, Jaga learns to command time, turns death into a weapon, and faces the truth buried in her past. Weles, torn between guilt and devotion, teaches her everything except how to let go. Their bond is obsession. Their intimacy is battle. When everything burns, Jaga must choose what’s worth saving.
To kill a god, she has to believe. In power. In herself. And in him.
Jaga grows from a sharp, broken girl into a goddess who reshapes fate on her own terms. Weles sheds manipulation for surrender, obsession for love, and power for trust. They shift from enemies locked in control to two souls bound by choice, pain, and something neither expected to survive.
This isn’t a love story. It’s a reckoning.
A dark, steamy, enemies to lovers, god x witch, forced proximity, soul-bond romantasy rooted in Slavic folklore, tangled in betrayal, prophecy, obsession, and impossible choices. It’s about how power, belief, trauma, and love collide to break and rebuild identity, where survival demands destruction and transformation. At its core, it’s about a girl who refuses to die, a god who learns to kneel, and a bond forged in blood, magic, and the kind of trust that scars.
The Elevator Pitch: A dark, spellbound romantasy where a witch refuses to kneel and a god learns what it means to break. Their bond is forged in obsession, betrayal, and the kind of love that reshapes fate. Haunting, seductive, and full of magic, it’s intense, emotional, and a powerful close to the trilogy.
December 29, 2025
DNF 75% in. This was a really disappointing end to a series that had a great start. The book just focused on too much back and forth between Woland, Weles, and Jaga and it got boring and repetitive. Him apologising and trying to win her over, her wanting to be with him but angry over his previous lies and deceptions and seeking revenge. It was so much exaggerated, it missed the main plot which was the battle between the gods.
Chors and Jaga's romantic relationship went nowhere either in this book which makes me question what the purpose of their sexual encounter at the end of book 2 actually added to the story other than more smut. I was also really disappointed by Woland's character portrayal in this as well. For most of the series, he is this commanding presence, sparking fear amongst mortals to the extent they can't even speak his name or look upon him without bleeding. However, in book 3 he is scared of Perun, wanting to run and hide, he came off very cowardly and unlike himself.
Chors and Jaga's romantic relationship went nowhere either in this book which makes me question what the purpose of their sexual encounter at the end of book 2 actually added to the story other than more smut. I was also really disappointed by Woland's character portrayal in this as well. For most of the series, he is this commanding presence, sparking fear amongst mortals to the extent they can't even speak his name or look upon him without bleeding. However, in book 3 he is scared of Perun, wanting to run and hide, he came off very cowardly and unlike himself.
December 28, 2025
wow. this is probably the darkest series I've ever read and I really had to power through at many points but I'm so glad I did. when I say I had to power through it's because these books made me FEEL especially in the first 2 books there was a lot of despair and hopelessness because of a prophecy tied to the FMC, she had always had a hard life but it gets so bad, some very dark themes throughout like sexual violence (so much sexual violence), dubious consent, body betrayal. interesting that the first 2 books were from FMC perspective and the last was mostly MMC and thank goodness for that because it was good to see him suffering for all he put the FMC through. a very interesting story and different from anything else I can recall reading, quite a ride!
December 30, 2025
This book wasn’t terrible however it definitely wasn’t what I expected it to be it’s like the roles between Jaga and Woland switched and the author made Weles really weak and I didn’t care for that I get it because he has to soften up to try to claim her soul and to get her to love him again but it just didn’t sit right with me the spicy scenes were a bit much for me it went a little to far for my liking I did skip most of them because once it started the book just consumed it towards the end there was so much more potential
December 30, 2025
This one dragged more than the first two, and parts of the ending felt a bit too neat, but overall it was a good wrap-up to the series.
December 25, 2025
Loved it (rounded up)
Review to come
Review to come
December 25, 2025
Oof I'm sad this book turned out to be mostly a flop for me. The cliff hanger from the previous book left me dying for this one and it semi delivered in the first chapters but then just totally got lost in the sauce. I really dislike how Jaga turned out and how just unreasonably stubborn she was to the point you wanted to strangle her. The plot and miguffins that happened really just took the love I had for this world and story and threw it out the window. Cheesey, annoying, eye roll events popping up all the time. Spice was redundant. Blah.
December 31, 2025
I’m sad that this series is over, I loved these characters and this story and was so eager to read the finale book which I did really enjoy but not as much as the others. While it was great to see a stronger side of Jaga I felt a little disconnected from her and didn’t understand how she went from the healer witch to the torture god. It felt a little GOT Dani situation where the change and development was too rushed and the build up was missed.
I’m really glad for the Woland chapters, I would have liked a few more from Jaga though. Overall it was a nice wrap up to the series and I’ll continue to love these characters.
I’m really glad for the Woland chapters, I would have liked a few more from Jaga though. Overall it was a nice wrap up to the series and I’ll continue to love these characters.
December 25, 2025
First 2 books are amazing. This one, not so much
I was so looking forward to this book! Its almost as if someone else wrote it, or the author is trying too hard to emulate someone else.
Without giving away spoilers, every issue was solved by "throw magic at it". It ended up being quite a slog to get through, when books 1&2 were fascinating.
I was so looking forward to this book! Its almost as if someone else wrote it, or the author is trying too hard to emulate someone else.
Without giving away spoilers, every issue was solved by "throw magic at it". It ended up being quite a slog to get through, when books 1&2 were fascinating.
January 1, 2026
Absolutely no lessons were learned. Incredibly disappointing. How did we go from 4 stars for Book 1 to 1 star by the end of the trilogy?
I will say the dedication to the DARK/Toxic genre is commendable. It remains true to this genre. When I opened the book and found that this was gonna be from Woland's POV. I wanted to riot. This book is disappointing in that it is Jaga's story, and yet the conclusion is not from her voice, not from her perspective. Where is she? She's a background character.
The majority of the book feels like the author justifying the plot twist from the end of book 2: Woland = Weles, that and a whole lot of grovelling. The whole I hurt you because I love you so much, I'll do anything so you react to me (any reaction is fine) - gets old and tiring and as a grown woman reading this: no. Again, I suppose this fits the DARK/Toxic genre, but I don't want to label it 'Dark Romance' because nothing about this is Romantic (more a comment about 'Dark Romance' in general).
The more enjoyable slivers of this book come from the lore of the gods, how they work (belief from mortals over time solidifying their nature etc.), and Perun's game to out manoeuvre them by tampering with the mortal realm - that was great, more of that please. But instead we get Woland/Weles grovelling, being horny, wanting to fuck an unwilling Jaga but recognising that raping her is not a good idea (ok and you want a medal for that?), trying to manipulate her into fucking him, being an absolutely useless person in the war of the gods and just a general nuisance.
Jaga goes off there rails, and I don't blame her after all she's been through and what's been done to her. She's steadfast in never falling for Woland/Weles' tricks again, however her dedication to being a badass is very one dimensional - she's there in the background spending time torturing people in the name of science, and not figuring out a way to fucking escape. Lady, prophecies are purposefully vague, why don't we pull on that thread? No? Ok, stay holed up being a one dimensional performative bad ass with a new outfit.
------ SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER --------
For all this talk of never falling for the trap ever again (and to be honest there wasn't a lot of that talk considering the book was from Woland's POV) what does she do? Falls for it, in fact i don't think she ever escaped the trap. All that suffering for nothing. All that accumulation of power for nothing. She dedicates herself to Woland when push comes to shove. And that's it. The conclusion/final show down is anticlimactic - nothing strategic or grand, just a betrayal from one of the allies and Perun coming in to trap them all.
The Happily Ever After was essentially "yay i was chosen by the boy, finally". Jaga babe, come on, you are better than that. Are we really going to ignore all the abuse you endured at his hands? How he tried to impregnate you against your will TWICE? "Oh but he was so conflicted about it the second time, so it's ok, that means he cares". Disappointing is not strong enough a word, absolutely no lessons were learned, no character was developed.
There were so many other paths that could've been explored. What if she didn't go back and save herself? She wanted freedom to die - ok, kill your younger self. Try that. What if she believed herself to be a goddess that was created, pledge allegiance/claim herself and win the war, shaping Slawa to her image. Tie herself to literally any other god? (how about Chors? remember him? he's nice.) She learned how to mask her energy and hide magically. Why not disappear back to the mortal world using this skill?
Well. None of that was explored and we got what we got.
I will say the dedication to the DARK/Toxic genre is commendable. It remains true to this genre. When I opened the book and found that this was gonna be from Woland's POV. I wanted to riot. This book is disappointing in that it is Jaga's story, and yet the conclusion is not from her voice, not from her perspective. Where is she? She's a background character.
The majority of the book feels like the author justifying the plot twist from the end of book 2: Woland = Weles, that and a whole lot of grovelling. The whole I hurt you because I love you so much, I'll do anything so you react to me (any reaction is fine) - gets old and tiring and as a grown woman reading this: no. Again, I suppose this fits the DARK/Toxic genre, but I don't want to label it 'Dark Romance' because nothing about this is Romantic (more a comment about 'Dark Romance' in general).
The more enjoyable slivers of this book come from the lore of the gods, how they work (belief from mortals over time solidifying their nature etc.), and Perun's game to out manoeuvre them by tampering with the mortal realm - that was great, more of that please. But instead we get Woland/Weles grovelling, being horny, wanting to fuck an unwilling Jaga but recognising that raping her is not a good idea (ok and you want a medal for that?), trying to manipulate her into fucking him, being an absolutely useless person in the war of the gods and just a general nuisance.
Jaga goes off there rails, and I don't blame her after all she's been through and what's been done to her. She's steadfast in never falling for Woland/Weles' tricks again, however her dedication to being a badass is very one dimensional - she's there in the background spending time torturing people in the name of science, and not figuring out a way to fucking escape. Lady, prophecies are purposefully vague, why don't we pull on that thread? No? Ok, stay holed up being a one dimensional performative bad ass with a new outfit.
------ SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER --------
For all this talk of never falling for the trap ever again (and to be honest there wasn't a lot of that talk considering the book was from Woland's POV) what does she do? Falls for it, in fact i don't think she ever escaped the trap. All that suffering for nothing. All that accumulation of power for nothing. She dedicates herself to Woland when push comes to shove. And that's it. The conclusion/final show down is anticlimactic - nothing strategic or grand, just a betrayal from one of the allies and Perun coming in to trap them all.
The Happily Ever After was essentially "yay i was chosen by the boy, finally". Jaga babe, come on, you are better than that. Are we really going to ignore all the abuse you endured at his hands? How he tried to impregnate you against your will TWICE? "Oh but he was so conflicted about it the second time, so it's ok, that means he cares". Disappointing is not strong enough a word, absolutely no lessons were learned, no character was developed.
There were so many other paths that could've been explored. What if she didn't go back and save herself? She wanted freedom to die - ok, kill your younger self. Try that. What if she believed herself to be a goddess that was created, pledge allegiance/claim herself and win the war, shaping Slawa to her image. Tie herself to literally any other god? (how about Chors? remember him? he's nice.) She learned how to mask her energy and hide magically. Why not disappear back to the mortal world using this skill?
Well. None of that was explored and we got what we got.
December 30, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
I’m still digesting the fact that I devoured all three books in barely a week, as if I were starving, and now I’m left both satisfied and genuinely sad that it’s over. Maybe I read too fast. Maybe I didn’t want it to end. Probably both.
This third installment was outstanding, but it took me on an emotional rollercoaster. At first, I was startled, then a little disappointed… and finally grateful that the story is told entirely from Woland’s point of view. He’s such a complex character: he oscillates between being a fool, genuinely cruel, and embarrassingly devoted, all while burdened by an immense amount of unprocessed trauma. Writing him must have been incredibly challenging.
In hindsight, a Jaga POV might have been redundant, circling endlessly around her distrust of Woland, her hatred, and her desire for him all at once so thank you for sparing us that. That said, I would have loved to see more of Jaga discovering the full depth of her power, and how she comes to accept (or at least confront) her shattered soul.
I loved the character development and the ending overall, but personally, I think the book could have benefited from a few hundred extra pages. The HEA came a bit too quickly after the final battle. After so much resistance and so many refusals, it felt a little too easy. I would have loved to see her leave first and then come back to Woland after some time had passed.
I was also mildly surprised to see Lech disappear so completely from Rada’s life in Nawie, but that’s a minor detail in the grand scheme of things.
As I said, I’m still processing all of this, which is probably why I landed at a 4.75 instead of a full 5. And honestly? That’s likely just me being in denial and salty with myself for devouring such an incredible series too quickly and now having nothing left. This is pure spite, and I fully own it.
I can’t wait for the side stories about Chors and Strzybog. Thank you, Layla, for this incredible series, you are without a doubt my best discovery of 2025.
I’m still digesting the fact that I devoured all three books in barely a week, as if I were starving, and now I’m left both satisfied and genuinely sad that it’s over. Maybe I read too fast. Maybe I didn’t want it to end. Probably both.
This third installment was outstanding, but it took me on an emotional rollercoaster. At first, I was startled, then a little disappointed… and finally grateful that the story is told entirely from Woland’s point of view. He’s such a complex character: he oscillates between being a fool, genuinely cruel, and embarrassingly devoted, all while burdened by an immense amount of unprocessed trauma. Writing him must have been incredibly challenging.
In hindsight, a Jaga POV might have been redundant, circling endlessly around her distrust of Woland, her hatred, and her desire for him all at once so thank you for sparing us that. That said, I would have loved to see more of Jaga discovering the full depth of her power, and how she comes to accept (or at least confront) her shattered soul.
I loved the character development and the ending overall, but personally, I think the book could have benefited from a few hundred extra pages. The HEA came a bit too quickly after the final battle. After so much resistance and so many refusals, it felt a little too easy. I would have loved to see her leave first and then come back to Woland after some time had passed.
I was also mildly surprised to see Lech disappear so completely from Rada’s life in Nawie, but that’s a minor detail in the grand scheme of things.
As I said, I’m still processing all of this, which is probably why I landed at a 4.75 instead of a full 5. And honestly? That’s likely just me being in denial and salty with myself for devouring such an incredible series too quickly and now having nothing left. This is pure spite, and I fully own it.
I can’t wait for the side stories about Chors and Strzybog. Thank you, Layla, for this incredible series, you are without a doubt my best discovery of 2025.
December 30, 2025
An epic tale by MeemsAngel82
This story, first and foremost, is most DEFINITELY not for the faint of heart. This is part 3 of 3 of a tale that is so well done I am just left in awe. First off, this isn't my cup of tea. When I say that it's because it has a repetitive reminder of our h hurting our H by being with one of his offspring. Second it's very, very emotional in the sense that she felt stripped away of so many things and it's so overwhelming. But the mastery of Layla's storytelling is just stunning. The details, the research, the fantastical things she set out to accomplish she certainly did! This ends with the same strength as the previous two books and had me holding my breath because I so badly needed an HEA for these two.
He played with her and got caught, maybe knowingly, in his own web. They must come together to out power his brother all the while proving that he really does love her.
Now he wrecked her. I mean he absolutely tormented her. But does he love her? Yes, he does. It's hard for me because he loves his son but she chose his son as a sort of revenge against him. The two care for one another but it is abundantly clear who belongs to who and it's her and her H all the way. The pain and sorrow of what was inflicted on both them and loved ones hurts me. He is trying and he does love her, he learns to be good for her and she breaks and as she comes into her own, knows she still loves him as well. They are what they are but truly love the other. Now they can live in relative peace and what a hard battle it was for the two of them. I applaud the effort this must have taken to achieve and boy was her goal accomplished! Our author created a spectacular cast of characters and a world that is so complex. This is storytelling! With pain, yes, but I'm left both stunned and amazed. There will be more from this world and I can't imagine where it will take us! Amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story, first and foremost, is most DEFINITELY not for the faint of heart. This is part 3 of 3 of a tale that is so well done I am just left in awe. First off, this isn't my cup of tea. When I say that it's because it has a repetitive reminder of our h hurting our H by being with one of his offspring. Second it's very, very emotional in the sense that she felt stripped away of so many things and it's so overwhelming. But the mastery of Layla's storytelling is just stunning. The details, the research, the fantastical things she set out to accomplish she certainly did! This ends with the same strength as the previous two books and had me holding my breath because I so badly needed an HEA for these two.
He played with her and got caught, maybe knowingly, in his own web. They must come together to out power his brother all the while proving that he really does love her.
Now he wrecked her. I mean he absolutely tormented her. But does he love her? Yes, he does. It's hard for me because he loves his son but she chose his son as a sort of revenge against him. The two care for one another but it is abundantly clear who belongs to who and it's her and her H all the way. The pain and sorrow of what was inflicted on both them and loved ones hurts me. He is trying and he does love her, he learns to be good for her and she breaks and as she comes into her own, knows she still loves him as well. They are what they are but truly love the other. Now they can live in relative peace and what a hard battle it was for the two of them. I applaud the effort this must have taken to achieve and boy was her goal accomplished! Our author created a spectacular cast of characters and a world that is so complex. This is storytelling! With pain, yes, but I'm left both stunned and amazed. There will be more from this world and I can't imagine where it will take us! Amazing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, thank you for letting me be an ARC reader for this book. One of the most anticipated books for me this year!
That was intense!! Honestly, I had so many feelings reading this book that it will take me time to unwind all of them. But as I just finished it five minutes ago, here are my initial thoughts.
This was an emotional journey. The feelings that I felt reading this book were so varied, from elation to disgust, to sadness & frustration, as well as happiness and joy. The depths that Layla has taken these characters to in this book go away beyond anything earlier in the series.
I will admit there were certain things that were really hard for me to read. But I persisted because I knew that even the most difficult things would lead me to the redemption of these characters whatever that looked like.
I found myself very angry at both Jaga and Weles…less so at Woland, which is interesting. The depths of their hurt and pain and how that led them down such a dangerous path was extremely frustrating and at times I needed to just put the book down because I was like this is insane. But of course I picked the book back up, and of course I continued to read because I’ve invested so much in these characters for a reason.
Layla has done an amazing job of telling the story of these characters, of bringing the things that happened in the first book all the way through to completion in this final chapter. Was it painful and also delicious? Absolutely! Did the ending leave me feeling like the pain and suffering was worth it in the end? Absolutely!
Thank you so much Layla for allowing me to receive this book early and read it before it was released. I hope that everyone picks this book up when it’s released and allows it the space to be what it is and takes what they need from it.
I am sad to say goodbye to these characters,, but I do feel like this was an appropriate ending and a lovely way to put a close to what was indeed a roller coaster of a series.
That was intense!! Honestly, I had so many feelings reading this book that it will take me time to unwind all of them. But as I just finished it five minutes ago, here are my initial thoughts.
This was an emotional journey. The feelings that I felt reading this book were so varied, from elation to disgust, to sadness & frustration, as well as happiness and joy. The depths that Layla has taken these characters to in this book go away beyond anything earlier in the series.
I will admit there were certain things that were really hard for me to read. But I persisted because I knew that even the most difficult things would lead me to the redemption of these characters whatever that looked like.
I found myself very angry at both Jaga and Weles…less so at Woland, which is interesting. The depths of their hurt and pain and how that led them down such a dangerous path was extremely frustrating and at times I needed to just put the book down because I was like this is insane. But of course I picked the book back up, and of course I continued to read because I’ve invested so much in these characters for a reason.
Layla has done an amazing job of telling the story of these characters, of bringing the things that happened in the first book all the way through to completion in this final chapter. Was it painful and also delicious? Absolutely! Did the ending leave me feeling like the pain and suffering was worth it in the end? Absolutely!
Thank you so much Layla for allowing me to receive this book early and read it before it was released. I hope that everyone picks this book up when it’s released and allows it the space to be what it is and takes what they need from it.
I am sad to say goodbye to these characters,, but I do feel like this was an appropriate ending and a lovely way to put a close to what was indeed a roller coaster of a series.
December 23, 2025
This was bittersweet. A truly fitting final installment, but also I’m so sad it’s over 😭
It felt right for 90% of this to be from Woland’s perspective, as he definitely had the most growing, repenting and groveling to do (and baby, does he grovel 🙏🏻). For the first two books I just kept wishing for more insight on his perspective, to help us understand his manipulation and poor treatment of Jaga. That is what this book gave us, and personally I found it very satisfying. It made him a much more sympathetic character.
Poor, sweet Jaga. Our girl has been through it. By the time we return to her here she is quite literally a shell of her former self. It’s frustrating to be stuck with her stonewalling Weles for like 70% of the book, because the tension/yearning/banter of the first two books is what made their relationship so electric. And I DID miss that aspect, A LOT (despite their catty banter in this making me lol still). But she is totally justified in being jaded and cold towards him. Her fear of him crushing her again keeps her guarded, and the story is all the better for it, I think. Their swapped power dynamic was much needed to balance everything. Nothing is easily won here, and those are my favorite kind of stories. Jaga is truly a badass FMC. Strong, ruthless, powerful. She literally becomes a goddess, gains immeasurable power and unlike most FMCs she doesn’t throw her dreams away for love at the drop of a hat.
I loved the end of this, Weles’ selfless revelation made me cry. Our boy is a slow learner, but he learns. And more importantly YEARNS. I was truly afraid for a minute Jaga was going to leave or die and we wouldn’t get a happy ending, but then I was like MS. FAE WOULD NOT DO THAT TO US. And I’m so glad I was right 😂
Idk what to read now. I’m going to go mourn the end of this series for a bit.
It felt right for 90% of this to be from Woland’s perspective, as he definitely had the most growing, repenting and groveling to do (and baby, does he grovel 🙏🏻). For the first two books I just kept wishing for more insight on his perspective, to help us understand his manipulation and poor treatment of Jaga. That is what this book gave us, and personally I found it very satisfying. It made him a much more sympathetic character.
Poor, sweet Jaga. Our girl has been through it. By the time we return to her here she is quite literally a shell of her former self. It’s frustrating to be stuck with her stonewalling Weles for like 70% of the book, because the tension/yearning/banter of the first two books is what made their relationship so electric. And I DID miss that aspect, A LOT (despite their catty banter in this making me lol still). But she is totally justified in being jaded and cold towards him. Her fear of him crushing her again keeps her guarded, and the story is all the better for it, I think. Their swapped power dynamic was much needed to balance everything. Nothing is easily won here, and those are my favorite kind of stories. Jaga is truly a badass FMC. Strong, ruthless, powerful. She literally becomes a goddess, gains immeasurable power and unlike most FMCs she doesn’t throw her dreams away for love at the drop of a hat.
I loved the end of this, Weles’ selfless revelation made me cry. Our boy is a slow learner, but he learns. And more importantly YEARNS. I was truly afraid for a minute Jaga was going to leave or die and we wouldn’t get a happy ending, but then I was like MS. FAE WOULD NOT DO THAT TO US. And I’m so glad I was right 😂
Idk what to read now. I’m going to go mourn the end of this series for a bit.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2025
3.5 rounded up
I can not stress enough how much I love this series. To say it's become my Roman Empire would be a gross understatement. I adored that Woland was truly the devil. Evil, manipulative, uncaring of when he harmed Jaga, and solely focused on getting her soul. Yet he softened for her, he felt for her, he cared for her. It was such a juxtaposition of her soft and naive nature that loved the devil as he was. She was desperate for soil to thrive in and he dangled it over her like a carrot and I relished in the conflict.
(I'm trying to avoid all spoilers so this may get vague)
It made this book so heartbreaking when they had fundamentally changed. Woland was no more. Being inside of his head for this book was phenomenal at first. Seeing his love, conflict and deep lack of self confidence added such a complexity that I wasn't expecting. I loved moments when we saw him push Jaga back to her fiery self and they became what we always say them as. Yet as I passed the 50% mark, then 60%, then 70%, then 80% I was wondering when the character we loved would return. He was a desperate, needy, clingy shell of himself. Willing to be debased and treated like a dog if only to catch her eye, and she was vehemently cruel, vindicative and cold in order to protect her damaged heart. We lost the things I loved about both of these characters in the final installment and I didn't expect it to pull through almost the whole book.
The final conclusion was hard-won but also wrapped up so quickly and they jumped back to a semblance of themselves that my head spun. Add in the extremely rare spice scenes that lacked what they once were and I left this book feeling so off. I loved the tie-in to Slavic folklore with Jaga at the conclusion, but that couldn't save what was a middle-of-the-road book for me.
All in all, this series is still my favourite, but I'm going to pretend it's a duet because this one just didn't hit the same.
*****
I received a complimentary copy of this novel for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I can not stress enough how much I love this series. To say it's become my Roman Empire would be a gross understatement. I adored that Woland was truly the devil. Evil, manipulative, uncaring of when he harmed Jaga, and solely focused on getting her soul. Yet he softened for her, he felt for her, he cared for her. It was such a juxtaposition of her soft and naive nature that loved the devil as he was. She was desperate for soil to thrive in and he dangled it over her like a carrot and I relished in the conflict.
(I'm trying to avoid all spoilers so this may get vague)
It made this book so heartbreaking when they had fundamentally changed. Woland was no more. Being inside of his head for this book was phenomenal at first. Seeing his love, conflict and deep lack of self confidence added such a complexity that I wasn't expecting. I loved moments when we saw him push Jaga back to her fiery self and they became what we always say them as. Yet as I passed the 50% mark, then 60%, then 70%, then 80% I was wondering when the character we loved would return. He was a desperate, needy, clingy shell of himself. Willing to be debased and treated like a dog if only to catch her eye, and she was vehemently cruel, vindicative and cold in order to protect her damaged heart. We lost the things I loved about both of these characters in the final installment and I didn't expect it to pull through almost the whole book.
The final conclusion was hard-won but also wrapped up so quickly and they jumped back to a semblance of themselves that my head spun. Add in the extremely rare spice scenes that lacked what they once were and I left this book feeling so off. I loved the tie-in to Slavic folklore with Jaga at the conclusion, but that couldn't save what was a middle-of-the-road book for me.
All in all, this series is still my favourite, but I'm going to pretend it's a duet because this one just didn't hit the same.
*****
I received a complimentary copy of this novel for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2025
I am blessed beyond measure that I started reading the first book shortly before this book came out. I was able to read it without forgetting any details but that also means it will take a few days to fully process this. This feeling reminds me of when I read: Feathers So Vicious by Liv Zander. I need something light and easy after this. They finally have their HEA but it cost so much to get it.
Jaga and the Devil is not an enemies-to-lovers romance about love conquering all, but focuses on how obsession, power, and survival come at a cost. This is supposed to be Woland's' "redemption arc" but it is not. We get his POV, and he is not any way redeemed. He even tells Jaga and us when he explains how he came to be, clearly revealing that every decision he made as Weles and Woland were his own. The harm that he inflicts on Jaga cannot be undone, yet he loves her and pines for her love back. I am emotionally damaged from how dark this book is, but I loved every bit of this ride. I read the book on Kindle and was afraid when I reached 90% of the book and they were trapped. I thought it would be dragged out into another book. Imagine my surprise when Jaga finally spoke the words she needed to end the war. And all Woland had to do was choose her above all else.
I also want to commend the author for the illustrations. They were chef's kiss. I could not stand to look at Woland whenever she showed a picture, I was afraid my eyes would also bleed, and he would end up in my nightmares. But I never minded when Chors blessed my eyes. I know that she has another book dedicated to him, but I think I am done with this world for now. Maybe some time in the future, I will come back to her. Thank you, Layla Fae. I appreciate the emotional integrity that was woven inside this book. It will always have a place among my soul.
Jaga and the Devil is not an enemies-to-lovers romance about love conquering all, but focuses on how obsession, power, and survival come at a cost. This is supposed to be Woland's' "redemption arc" but it is not. We get his POV, and he is not any way redeemed. He even tells Jaga and us when he explains how he came to be, clearly revealing that every decision he made as Weles and Woland were his own. The harm that he inflicts on Jaga cannot be undone, yet he loves her and pines for her love back. I am emotionally damaged from how dark this book is, but I loved every bit of this ride. I read the book on Kindle and was afraid when I reached 90% of the book and they were trapped. I thought it would be dragged out into another book. Imagine my surprise when Jaga finally spoke the words she needed to end the war. And all Woland had to do was choose her above all else.
I also want to commend the author for the illustrations. They were chef's kiss. I could not stand to look at Woland whenever she showed a picture, I was afraid my eyes would also bleed, and he would end up in my nightmares. But I never minded when Chors blessed my eyes. I know that she has another book dedicated to him, but I think I am done with this world for now. Maybe some time in the future, I will come back to her. Thank you, Layla Fae. I appreciate the emotional integrity that was woven inside this book. It will always have a place among my soul.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2025
OMG, I hung on every word of every book
Folk monster romantasy is my new favorite genre. I don’t care if it isn’t technically a real genre.
I typically hate series unless the books in the series can be read separately and each one has its own characters and plot. I also abhor books over 250-300 pages. But… BUT…
This was the exception.
I enjoyed the writing, the plot, the storyline, the characters backstory, arc, and development. The infusion and twists on some of the mythology was woven into the story really well. All-in-all, it was a really was a beautiful story.
But don’t expect bad-guy-turned-hero, as this story is about gods, devils, and witches and their motives aren’t exactly noble.
*Spoiler alerts ahead*
Do mind the trigger warnings! I have no triggers and I was there for every lurid detail.
The story does have a happily ever after, but man… do they put one another through it!
Jaga is one of the toughest FMCs I’ve ever read and definitely in my top three favorites mainly because her arc isn’t riddled with TSTL moments. She is strong, complex, and her own person. She wanted freedom and in her own way, she found it.
Wolan wasn’t a good guy, but he was at least interesting. I liked the take on the devil and his motives. I really appreciated his insight/perspective in this last book of the series. You wanted to root for him, but at the same time, you also wanted Jaga to do her worst to him. I felt like Weles was kind of trapped in the middle. Also, I giggled at Weles squeamishness.
And oh my gods, the ending! Perfection! I was completely surprised when I realized whose story I was reading.
This book is definitely different from Layla Faes other works. Well done!
Gonna have to add this one to my book shelf to complete the collection!
Folk monster romantasy is my new favorite genre. I don’t care if it isn’t technically a real genre.
I typically hate series unless the books in the series can be read separately and each one has its own characters and plot. I also abhor books over 250-300 pages. But… BUT…
This was the exception.
I enjoyed the writing, the plot, the storyline, the characters backstory, arc, and development. The infusion and twists on some of the mythology was woven into the story really well. All-in-all, it was a really was a beautiful story.
But don’t expect bad-guy-turned-hero, as this story is about gods, devils, and witches and their motives aren’t exactly noble.
*Spoiler alerts ahead*
Do mind the trigger warnings! I have no triggers and I was there for every lurid detail.
The story does have a happily ever after, but man… do they put one another through it!
Jaga is one of the toughest FMCs I’ve ever read and definitely in my top three favorites mainly because her arc isn’t riddled with TSTL moments. She is strong, complex, and her own person. She wanted freedom and in her own way, she found it.
Wolan wasn’t a good guy, but he was at least interesting. I liked the take on the devil and his motives. I really appreciated his insight/perspective in this last book of the series. You wanted to root for him, but at the same time, you also wanted Jaga to do her worst to him. I felt like Weles was kind of trapped in the middle. Also, I giggled at Weles squeamishness.
And oh my gods, the ending! Perfection! I was completely surprised when I realized whose story I was reading.
This book is definitely different from Layla Faes other works. Well done!
Gonna have to add this one to my book shelf to complete the collection!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m blessed that I received ARC for this book. I’m obsessed with the series. It’s one of my top series in the last decade.
I went into this book with a bittersweet feeling because I was sad to read, “the end.”
Layla didn’t disappoint with this book. My goodness, it was everything plus some. Every tear I shed, every bit of anger and hurt I felt for Jaga in the previous books were acknowledged with this one. Not only that, as a reader I felt like I was vindicated. I got justice in this story and that’s exactly what I needed to move on, to forgive, to flourish within the boundaries of this book.
In true, Layla Fae fashion, she reaches deep down into the darkness of the human condition and it isn’t just her characters that experience it, it’s the readers. We go on this journey and we see it with her fantastic world building and prose. We feel what Jaga feels and that’s not always a pleasant experience. But that’s where the beauty lies in a Layla Fae book. She miraculously tears us down, to build us up.
There were surprises in this one, a story told from a different POV than the previous books but it was needed because Jaga manages to shine brighter from another point of view. As a series fan, I am happy about the way things ended. I needed this story wrapped up in a bow of tattered souls that are marred but which never stop shining. That’s who Jaga is to me. She’s an unbelievable hero who has the magic, and the bravery to say NO.
Five unbelievable, glowing stars for Layla Fae and her book Devil’s Dance. It’s brilliant. I’ll be rereading it and the series for many years to come.
I went into this book with a bittersweet feeling because I was sad to read, “the end.”
Layla didn’t disappoint with this book. My goodness, it was everything plus some. Every tear I shed, every bit of anger and hurt I felt for Jaga in the previous books were acknowledged with this one. Not only that, as a reader I felt like I was vindicated. I got justice in this story and that’s exactly what I needed to move on, to forgive, to flourish within the boundaries of this book.
In true, Layla Fae fashion, she reaches deep down into the darkness of the human condition and it isn’t just her characters that experience it, it’s the readers. We go on this journey and we see it with her fantastic world building and prose. We feel what Jaga feels and that’s not always a pleasant experience. But that’s where the beauty lies in a Layla Fae book. She miraculously tears us down, to build us up.
There were surprises in this one, a story told from a different POV than the previous books but it was needed because Jaga manages to shine brighter from another point of view. As a series fan, I am happy about the way things ended. I needed this story wrapped up in a bow of tattered souls that are marred but which never stop shining. That’s who Jaga is to me. She’s an unbelievable hero who has the magic, and the bravery to say NO.
Five unbelievable, glowing stars for Layla Fae and her book Devil’s Dance. It’s brilliant. I’ll be rereading it and the series for many years to come.
December 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Devil’s Dance by Layla Fae
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Devil’s Dance is dark, intoxicating, and emotionally sharp, the kind of fantasy romance that pulls you under and does not let go.
Layla Fae nails the atmosphere. Everything feels heavy with tension, desire, and danger. The world is rich without being overwhelming, and the darkness feels intentional, seductive, and earned. Nothing is there just for shock value. It all serves the story.
The romance is intense. Slow burning, obsessive, and charged with power imbalance and temptation. The chemistry is unreal and every interaction feels loaded, like one wrong move could destroy everything. The characters feel deeply flawed and painfully human, which makes the stakes hit harder and the emotional moments land even deeper.
What really makes this a five star banger is how immersive it is. I stopped noticing the pages. I stopped checking how much was left. I was just there, living in the tension, the yearning, and the danger of it all. Dark fantasy romance fans who love morally gray characters, emotional depth, and a story that is not afraid to go there will eat this up.
Gorgeous writing. Brutal emotions. Unforgettable vibe. Easily a standout read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book absolutely wrecked me in the best way. Devil’s Dance is dark, intoxicating, and emotionally sharp, the kind of fantasy romance that pulls you under and does not let go.
Layla Fae nails the atmosphere. Everything feels heavy with tension, desire, and danger. The world is rich without being overwhelming, and the darkness feels intentional, seductive, and earned. Nothing is there just for shock value. It all serves the story.
The romance is intense. Slow burning, obsessive, and charged with power imbalance and temptation. The chemistry is unreal and every interaction feels loaded, like one wrong move could destroy everything. The characters feel deeply flawed and painfully human, which makes the stakes hit harder and the emotional moments land even deeper.
What really makes this a five star banger is how immersive it is. I stopped noticing the pages. I stopped checking how much was left. I was just there, living in the tension, the yearning, and the danger of it all. Dark fantasy romance fans who love morally gray characters, emotional depth, and a story that is not afraid to go there will eat this up.
Gorgeous writing. Brutal emotions. Unforgettable vibe. Easily a standout read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2025
This series was a 5 star read for me, but this book was a bit of a let down. I still enjoyed it though and couldn't put it down.
Positives:
* Beautiful writing
* Loved Weles and the contrast between him and Woland
* Loved that it was in Weles' POV -- somehow it just worked!
* Nyja was amazing
* The spice was quite unexpected
* The plot setup and Weles' history
Things I didn't like:
* The pacing was really off. The first 75% was very slow and the battle at the end was very quick and unsatisfying.
* Hardly any Chors in it
* The book was not focused on the plot or the centuries long battle, but almost entirely on the relationship between the MCs. I thought this was a missed opportunity, given how beautiful the world building and plot set up was
* I was hoping to see a lot more Perun given he is the main villain
* My biggest peeve with the book though is how much Jaga tortured Weles. It spanned almost the entire book, crossed some awful lines, and I thought it was too much. I love a strong powerful FMC, and Jaga is refreshing in being a rare gray area female lead. But I find it harder to appreciate an FMC who pulls down and debases the man she's supposed to love to this extent. She just wasn't very likeable in this book, coming off as mean, vindictive, and selfish throughout to an extreme degree (maybe even monstrous). Weles deserved better.
Positives:
* Beautiful writing
* Loved Weles and the contrast between him and Woland
* Loved that it was in Weles' POV -- somehow it just worked!
* Nyja was amazing
* The spice was quite unexpected
* The plot setup and Weles' history
Things I didn't like:
* The pacing was really off. The first 75% was very slow and the battle at the end was very quick and unsatisfying.
* Hardly any Chors in it
* The book was not focused on the plot or the centuries long battle, but almost entirely on the relationship between the MCs. I thought this was a missed opportunity, given how beautiful the world building and plot set up was
* I was hoping to see a lot more Perun given he is the main villain
* My biggest peeve with the book though is how much Jaga tortured Weles. It spanned almost the entire book, crossed some awful lines, and I thought it was too much. I love a strong powerful FMC, and Jaga is refreshing in being a rare gray area female lead. But I find it harder to appreciate an FMC who pulls down and debases the man she's supposed to love to this extent. She just wasn't very likeable in this book, coming off as mean, vindictive, and selfish throughout to an extreme degree (maybe even monstrous). Weles deserved better.
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