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The Tempest #1
Brontide
Lost in a dark woods and far from his familiar stomping grounds, Corbet put little stock in myths and legends of the Aos Sí. But when he is happened upon by a man claiming to be a faerie king, he finds that superstition holds more sway than logic among the Sidhe.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 4, 2016
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445 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
October 13, 2017
**grm**
1st of all, I need to go into the woods and find myself a fae circle, bcs I need a Ruari in my life. All should have one!
I don't even know where to start my review. This book was good, like really good, and is so rare I rate something I have read 5 stars, that this should make ppl understand my feelings while reading this story. I'll try to make this review short(also if there would be so many things to say), bcs I need to go read the sequel like right NOW!
At the start of the book, we meet Corbet, an human traveling(travelling, whatever, choose one form) alone. We don't know what he is searching for or where he is going. While he is in the woods, he finds a fae circle and without knowing the rules of the fae, he steps in it. Soon after a beautiful stranger appears and Corbet thinks that he is allucinating. Ruari is a fae, the King of the fae and rarely comes up on the earth (his kingdom is underground), but there is something in this human that fascinates him and pushed the King to meet him.
They talk a bit and then Ruari stoles a kiss and decices that he wants to keep this human. He wants to make Corbet his and so kidnaps him. Well kidnaps is a strong word since later Corbet will have plenty of chances to leave the fae Kingdom. Ruari is a kind man(fae?), but smart and sure of what he wants and he wants Corbet, but he never takes more than a kiss, and never without Corbet really wanting it...and why shouldn't he? Ruari is sexy as hell, smart and gentle and someone that will never let you get bored. Corbet on the other hand, is sassy and cute, but he too is smart and strong, and he is maybe the only one able to keep the King on his feet. Their banter was funny, but when finally feelings started to grow, their interactions became amazing. When they finally have sex, is bcs they both want it and they are in love, and sure as hell Corbet doesn't want to leave anymore. Sure we don't know anything about their pasts or if they had lovers before, but Ruari is centuries old (also if he looks like a 30 years old man) and Corbet (24 years old) seems to know what he is doing, so is right to presume they were with others. I liked the fact that we don't know anything about the ex-lovers, let's hope this continues like that.
Shit hits the fan one day, after Ruari, ignoring the fae laws,does something for Corbet. He saves one of his animals friends during the storm on the night of the Solstice. He puts all the fae in danger to help his mortal pet(how the other fae call Corbet) and now he will pay. He is imprisoned and the Monarch of the Unseelie court takes his throne.
Ok a bit of backgroud story, The fae kingdom is divided in 2 courts, the Seelie with Ruari as King and the Unseelie with the Monarch on the throne. They balance the magic protecting the Kingdom with a barrier and any thing done to break that balance is punished.
Ruari knew it, but he still did it for Corbet, and not bcs the human told him that he would be finally his and eat the fae foods, binding himself to this place, but bcs Ruari loves Corbet and would do anything for him, also risk his life. And later we will see that Corbet would do the same for his King.
Now imprisoned Ruari knows that soon the Monarch will probably kill him, but the only thing he fears is not knowing what they are doing to his love, to Corbet. There is no one now protecting him.
Well Ruari shouldn't have feared for him. Corbet is way smarter than the other fae thought, and with his fast mouth and quicker brain he is able to trick the Monarch in trusting him and then he kills him.
Corbet,that had to taste the fae foods from the Monarch's hand, is now undergoing a transformation. He is dying, and he is becoming a fae. He is now immortal and the new Monarch of the Unseelie court(since he transformed while having the former Monarch blood on his body).
When Ruari is called to meet the Monarch he is shocked to find Corbet on the throne, but what really breaks his heart is the fact that his human is now a fae and doesn't remember anything of their love or the days they spent together.
Corbet gives Ruari his crown back and tells him that they will need work together to fix the barrier. Ruari has other plans, yes he will fix the barrier, but he will also do anything to have his lover back.
I loved Corbet and Ruari, their characters felt real. Together they were cute and hot and I really hope that in the next book we will not see Corbet with someone else. Bcs also if he lost his memories, he is still wearing the ring Ruari gave him, and this makes me hope.
NEXT!!!
I will read for sure more books from this author.
1st of all, I need to go into the woods and find myself a fae circle, bcs I need a Ruari in my life. All should have one!
I don't even know where to start my review. This book was good, like really good, and is so rare I rate something I have read 5 stars, that this should make ppl understand my feelings while reading this story. I'll try to make this review short(also if there would be so many things to say), bcs I need to go read the sequel like right NOW!
At the start of the book, we meet Corbet, an human traveling(travelling, whatever, choose one form) alone. We don't know what he is searching for or where he is going. While he is in the woods, he finds a fae circle and without knowing the rules of the fae, he steps in it. Soon after a beautiful stranger appears and Corbet thinks that he is allucinating. Ruari is a fae, the King of the fae and rarely comes up on the earth (his kingdom is underground), but there is something in this human that fascinates him and pushed the King to meet him.
They talk a bit and then Ruari stoles a kiss and decices that he wants to keep this human. He wants to make Corbet his and so kidnaps him. Well kidnaps is a strong word since later Corbet will have plenty of chances to leave the fae Kingdom. Ruari is a kind man(fae?), but smart and sure of what he wants and he wants Corbet, but he never takes more than a kiss, and never without Corbet really wanting it...and why shouldn't he? Ruari is sexy as hell, smart and gentle and someone that will never let you get bored. Corbet on the other hand, is sassy and cute, but he too is smart and strong, and he is maybe the only one able to keep the King on his feet. Their banter was funny, but when finally feelings started to grow, their interactions became amazing. When they finally have sex, is bcs they both want it and they are in love, and sure as hell Corbet doesn't want to leave anymore. Sure we don't know anything about their pasts or if they had lovers before, but Ruari is centuries old (also if he looks like a 30 years old man) and Corbet (24 years old) seems to know what he is doing, so is right to presume they were with others. I liked the fact that we don't know anything about the ex-lovers, let's hope this continues like that.
Shit hits the fan one day, after Ruari, ignoring the fae laws,does something for Corbet. He saves one of his animals friends during the storm on the night of the Solstice. He puts all the fae in danger to help his mortal pet(how the other fae call Corbet) and now he will pay. He is imprisoned and the Monarch of the Unseelie court takes his throne.
Ok a bit of backgroud story, The fae kingdom is divided in 2 courts, the Seelie with Ruari as King and the Unseelie with the Monarch on the throne. They balance the magic protecting the Kingdom with a barrier and any thing done to break that balance is punished.
Ruari knew it, but he still did it for Corbet, and not bcs the human told him that he would be finally his and eat the fae foods, binding himself to this place, but bcs Ruari loves Corbet and would do anything for him, also risk his life. And later we will see that Corbet would do the same for his King.
Now imprisoned Ruari knows that soon the Monarch will probably kill him, but the only thing he fears is not knowing what they are doing to his love, to Corbet. There is no one now protecting him.
Well Ruari shouldn't have feared for him. Corbet is way smarter than the other fae thought, and with his fast mouth and quicker brain he is able to trick the Monarch in trusting him and then he kills him.
Corbet,that had to taste the fae foods from the Monarch's hand, is now undergoing a transformation. He is dying, and he is becoming a fae. He is now immortal and the new Monarch of the Unseelie court(since he transformed while having the former Monarch blood on his body).
When Ruari is called to meet the Monarch he is shocked to find Corbet on the throne, but what really breaks his heart is the fact that his human is now a fae and doesn't remember anything of their love or the days they spent together.
Corbet gives Ruari his crown back and tells him that they will need work together to fix the barrier. Ruari has other plans, yes he will fix the barrier, but he will also do anything to have his lover back.
I loved Corbet and Ruari, their characters felt real. Together they were cute and hot and I really hope that in the next book we will not see Corbet with someone else. Bcs also if he lost his memories, he is still wearing the ring Ruari gave him, and this makes me hope.
NEXT!!!
I will read for sure more books from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2023
Ugh, this was stupidly good. I think this probably goes down as my favourite Faerie book I’ve read. No time to waste though, on to book 2.
November 7, 2016
Five Stars
Looking forward to the next book!
Brontide is a beautifully written narrative following Corbet, a young wanderer who has found himself entangled with a fae king. The book reads like a fairy tale and never lost my interest. The characters were well developed and the author kept me wondering how the book would end!
Looking forward to the next book!
Brontide is a beautifully written narrative following Corbet, a young wanderer who has found himself entangled with a fae king. The book reads like a fairy tale and never lost my interest. The characters were well developed and the author kept me wondering how the book would end!
March 19, 2017
How do I begin to review something that has impacted my life so much?
If I could only read one book series for the rest of eternity, it would be this one. I'd re-read it until I know every page word for word and then I would read it again and again, I could never get tired of this book.
Brontide is a book like no other, coming from a person who devours and studies books for a living, Brontide has easily made its way to my favourite book of ever. Of all time.
If you love LGBT+ romance and are into fae or gaelic lore, this is the book for you.
(If this review could just be loud screaming it would accurately describe how much I love it.)
The narration is wonderful and engaging in such a way that you feel exactly how the characters feel at any given time, almost as if you can taste the food described, the feeling of the clothing worn and the racing heartbeats in your own ear. Brontide is written in a way that it draws the reader in instantly and you soon find yourself lost in the world below the Earth.
The imagery is ethereal and paired with the absolutely stunning illustrations, you can really get a feel of the environment and scenery. I find myself wondering how cool the ground would feel against bare feet, the feeling of bark entwined with the walls, the sights of the throne room, grand and extravagant just as written within the pages, and how each character would stand out against the scenery.
But oh the characters !! The characters are all unique and otherworldly - I'm always swept away by their appearances and personalities, wondering each and every thought they might have had, what possessed them to do such an action? What made this character the way they are? How sharp are their lovely teeth? What kind of past does the protagonist have and will we find out? So many questions, so much material to read into, analyse and devour.
I adore the protagonists just as much as I adore the antagonist and minor characters, each lovable and charming (and deadly in one or two cases) in their own way with their own defining features and personality traits that makes them relatable but also untouchable and mystical. I could write pages and pages on each character, listing my favourite details about them and how well they are written, each interaction with a new character leaves me breathless and I have the urge to know more and more about them all.
I've read Brontide around five times now and each time I encounter something new - a sense of foreshadowing in dialogue I had yet to pick up on, or a certain specific detail of a character that I hadn't considered before. I've come up with countless of theories and ideas of what the sequel will entail and I eagerly await to see what will or won't happen. On each read through Im taken aback by the imagery and the tone set in each chapter, each paragraph bringing something new that I hadn't thought about yet, or strengthening a theory or opinion I had of a character or plot point.
The lore is incredibly well thought out and has its own unique qualities to traditional fae lore. T.D. Cloud's lore of the two courts and their construction is so interesting to me and I've re-read that particular scene a few dozen times trying to find hints as to what may unfold in the future or what we may learn in the upcoming books.
I've studied various lore to try and find similarities and inspirations for the lore in Brontide and I'm eager to see how the lore develops in the rest of the Tempest Series.
There are times when this book has made me speechless, times where I want to shake the author by the shoulders and demand to know every genius thought and process that went into writing this masterpiece.
A particular scene in chapter 12 left me breathless in all the right (and wrong~) ways, the noise I made was inhuman and I then proceeded to battle through my tears determined to read more and more.
Brontide made me cry upon receiving the book, completely overwhelmed at how amazing the writing and illustrations are, and its a book that continues to make me cry - both out of amazement and heartbreak for the characters. I cant cant how many times I've cried over this book, it takes me on a rollercoaster of emotions each read through and I cant get enough. Brontide is a gateway drug.
Despite the tears I've shed, Brontide is one the most thrilling books I've read, you will cry along with the characters but also laugh and smile with them. I fell in love with the characters as they fell in love with each other - something which many romance novels fail to achieve, capturing the readers heart as well as the protagonist - yet Brontide achieved this with ease.
I find myself dreaming about the characters, the two courts and the ethereal imagery presented in Brontide. Its always in my thoughts in one way or another and I am becoming obsessed with the characters. This book is entwined with my soul and I have no idea where I would be without it.
Overall, Brontide has made me feel things no book has ever made me feel before. Nothing has quite grabbed my attention and delved deep into my mind, soul and heart and essentially become a part of me.
I could not think more highly of this book, but I know the sequels will amaze me even more than the first. I am so excited to read the next instalment of the series, to cry over the characters and devour more and more wonderful plot, lore and imagery, and stare in awe at the fantastic illustrations presented in each chapter.
T.D. Cloud has created something so wonderful and ethereal, its almost unreal how magical the book reads. Combined with AmbiSun's flawless illustrations (I would frame each one if I could), Brontide is the greatest book I have ever experienced. And I know with the upcoming sequel Deluge, I will fall more and more in love with this series.
If I could only read one book series for the rest of eternity, it would be this one. I'd re-read it until I know every page word for word and then I would read it again and again, I could never get tired of this book.
Brontide is a book like no other, coming from a person who devours and studies books for a living, Brontide has easily made its way to my favourite book of ever. Of all time.
If you love LGBT+ romance and are into fae or gaelic lore, this is the book for you.
(If this review could just be loud screaming it would accurately describe how much I love it.)
The narration is wonderful and engaging in such a way that you feel exactly how the characters feel at any given time, almost as if you can taste the food described, the feeling of the clothing worn and the racing heartbeats in your own ear. Brontide is written in a way that it draws the reader in instantly and you soon find yourself lost in the world below the Earth.
The imagery is ethereal and paired with the absolutely stunning illustrations, you can really get a feel of the environment and scenery. I find myself wondering how cool the ground would feel against bare feet, the feeling of bark entwined with the walls, the sights of the throne room, grand and extravagant just as written within the pages, and how each character would stand out against the scenery.
But oh the characters !! The characters are all unique and otherworldly - I'm always swept away by their appearances and personalities, wondering each and every thought they might have had, what possessed them to do such an action? What made this character the way they are? How sharp are their lovely teeth? What kind of past does the protagonist have and will we find out? So many questions, so much material to read into, analyse and devour.
I adore the protagonists just as much as I adore the antagonist and minor characters, each lovable and charming (and deadly in one or two cases) in their own way with their own defining features and personality traits that makes them relatable but also untouchable and mystical. I could write pages and pages on each character, listing my favourite details about them and how well they are written, each interaction with a new character leaves me breathless and I have the urge to know more and more about them all.
I've read Brontide around five times now and each time I encounter something new - a sense of foreshadowing in dialogue I had yet to pick up on, or a certain specific detail of a character that I hadn't considered before. I've come up with countless of theories and ideas of what the sequel will entail and I eagerly await to see what will or won't happen. On each read through Im taken aback by the imagery and the tone set in each chapter, each paragraph bringing something new that I hadn't thought about yet, or strengthening a theory or opinion I had of a character or plot point.
The lore is incredibly well thought out and has its own unique qualities to traditional fae lore. T.D. Cloud's lore of the two courts and their construction is so interesting to me and I've re-read that particular scene a few dozen times trying to find hints as to what may unfold in the future or what we may learn in the upcoming books.
I've studied various lore to try and find similarities and inspirations for the lore in Brontide and I'm eager to see how the lore develops in the rest of the Tempest Series.
There are times when this book has made me speechless, times where I want to shake the author by the shoulders and demand to know every genius thought and process that went into writing this masterpiece.
A particular scene in chapter 12 left me breathless in all the right (and wrong~) ways, the noise I made was inhuman and I then proceeded to battle through my tears determined to read more and more.
Brontide made me cry upon receiving the book, completely overwhelmed at how amazing the writing and illustrations are, and its a book that continues to make me cry - both out of amazement and heartbreak for the characters. I cant cant how many times I've cried over this book, it takes me on a rollercoaster of emotions each read through and I cant get enough. Brontide is a gateway drug.
Despite the tears I've shed, Brontide is one the most thrilling books I've read, you will cry along with the characters but also laugh and smile with them. I fell in love with the characters as they fell in love with each other - something which many romance novels fail to achieve, capturing the readers heart as well as the protagonist - yet Brontide achieved this with ease.
I find myself dreaming about the characters, the two courts and the ethereal imagery presented in Brontide. Its always in my thoughts in one way or another and I am becoming obsessed with the characters. This book is entwined with my soul and I have no idea where I would be without it.
Overall, Brontide has made me feel things no book has ever made me feel before. Nothing has quite grabbed my attention and delved deep into my mind, soul and heart and essentially become a part of me.
I could not think more highly of this book, but I know the sequels will amaze me even more than the first. I am so excited to read the next instalment of the series, to cry over the characters and devour more and more wonderful plot, lore and imagery, and stare in awe at the fantastic illustrations presented in each chapter.
T.D. Cloud has created something so wonderful and ethereal, its almost unreal how magical the book reads. Combined with AmbiSun's flawless illustrations (I would frame each one if I could), Brontide is the greatest book I have ever experienced. And I know with the upcoming sequel Deluge, I will fall more and more in love with this series.
March 21, 2017
I have too many feelings to write wordy reviews for either of the books that belong to this series. The following meager sentences will have to suffice: it's been a very long time since I've read anything that fills me with as much anticipation, anxiety, and warmth as these books have. Most books fall into the realm of "sameness" for me, but I will l carry this story and its characters close to my heart. Cloud will be on my automatic buy list from now on.
Thank you for adding a bright spot in my life that was sorely needed.
Thank you for adding a bright spot in my life that was sorely needed.
June 5, 2017
Why did I read this book!!!!! It is a cliff hanger and I absolutely hate cliff hangers. The story itself was just okay though. The reader doesn't get to know either MC well and the world building was minimal. Could have been soo much more but just didn't hit the mark for me.
The ending was crazy and not in a good way. The story took an entirely different path than expected which leaves me sad and confused. Part of me wants to read the next while another part doesn't want to give it another chance. Very conflicted right now.
The ending was crazy and not in a good way. The story took an entirely different path than expected which leaves me sad and confused. Part of me wants to read the next while another part doesn't want to give it another chance. Very conflicted right now.
March 11, 2018
Ends in a cliffhanger. :)
So I will be reading the other 2 books. Hopefully 3 is all there is and I don't have to wait for all of them to be completed.
So I will be reading the other 2 books. Hopefully 3 is all there is and I don't have to wait for all of them to be completed.
October 7, 2017
instalove, полное отсутствие какого-либо конфликта до 70% и говорящий ежик. Я ожидала немного другого. Но концовка ничего так, может, почитаю продолжение.
December 26, 2018
hhhh im so conflicted. i didn’t like 90% of this book, i thought the romance development was badly written and the “plot” relied heavily in, not miscommunication per se, but.... other characters just not giving the protag pertinent information for no reason whatsoever. like the author had to intentionally withhold information from the protag so the plot could happen, it felt too forced. but the last 10% had a plot twist that made me SCREAM and made me READY to read the sequel, but then.... the author used this plot twist to add a trope i HATE bc not only i feel it’s the cousin of the miscommunication trope, which i loathe, but also it made the rest of the book feel kinda pointless? like, why all that development (even if shoddily written) if it’ll all become useless the next book, yknow? but still... i guess the plot twist has me intrigued.
April 27, 2017
Short Ver: "Brontide" is a lyrically crafted novel that reads like an elegant fairytale told in a way that makes you want to hear it again and again.
Good if you like: Romance, Supernatural, Fairytales, Intrigue, Beautiful Imagery
Long Ver:
As an avid fan of all things fae I have a high standard when I see its elements in a book. It can't just be done, it has to be done well. "Brontide" not only delivers a captivating picture of the Faerie Realm, but also includes a delicious romance and a thrilling adventure in the package. Every element of this novel is rich; the prose is so beautiful you'll want to hang up quotes on your wall, the characters are compelling and will make you fall in love with them, and the world itself will make you jealous that you weren't the one kidnapped by the Faerie King.
"Brontide" is truly well done, and will leave you aching for the next installment.
Good if you like: Romance, Supernatural, Fairytales, Intrigue, Beautiful Imagery
Long Ver:
As an avid fan of all things fae I have a high standard when I see its elements in a book. It can't just be done, it has to be done well. "Brontide" not only delivers a captivating picture of the Faerie Realm, but also includes a delicious romance and a thrilling adventure in the package. Every element of this novel is rich; the prose is so beautiful you'll want to hang up quotes on your wall, the characters are compelling and will make you fall in love with them, and the world itself will make you jealous that you weren't the one kidnapped by the Faerie King.
"Brontide" is truly well done, and will leave you aching for the next installment.
August 24, 2017
Brontide is a cleverly crafted romance that bring us in the mysterious realm of the Fae. It's fascinating how the author manages to make the point of view character, Corbet, feel so familiar to us, while giving all things magical a dream-like quality.
A very pleasurable read –and there's a whole series!
A very pleasurable read –and there's a whole series!
did-not-finish
June 11, 2022Badly needs an editor
March 22, 2017
The book was a light read with not much action. I enjoyed it; but my copy of the book had a printing error. It was missing text (and I'm assuming pages) around the 80 page mark of my book. But other than a brief moment of confusion, it didn't ruin it for me.
October 22, 2018
Was recommended this books by a friend and was not disappointed!
It was the perfect mix of fantasy, romance that kept me coming back for more! I could not put this book down (so much so I read it in 4 days with a newborn) Ruari and Corbet give me life and I cannot wait to read the second book in the series!
10/10 would definitely recommend!
It was the perfect mix of fantasy, romance that kept me coming back for more! I could not put this book down (so much so I read it in 4 days with a newborn) Ruari and Corbet give me life and I cannot wait to read the second book in the series!
10/10 would definitely recommend!
August 5, 2017
loved it and am on to the next!!
January 21, 2024
This book was "Okay," in terms of first books of a series goes. I did end up purchasing the entire trilogy outright so I wouldnt need to wait on shipping in the event that I really liked the first one.
That being said, I only sort of liked the book. I'm going to read all of them since I own them, and I do have moderately high hopes that the story improves as it goes on.
As for the first book, I mean this with all the affection I can muster, but it reads like fanfiction. The world-building is minimal and the narrative acts like we already know who these characters are, so not a lot of introduction, descriptions, and even more minimal personality development as the story goes on. In addition, since this feels so heavily like a fanfic with new names pasted in, the romance between Corbet and Rauri also feels like we should just expect them to be together.
The romance between the leads didn't really develop, they just met and Rauri just wanted Corbet and even the inner monologues of Corbet being in denial seemed weird when he just ultimately went along with everything.
The ending of the first book was a cliffhanger I would expect out of a weird anime, which fuels the fanfiction feeling even more unfortunately.
But again, I have all of the books so I'm going to finish the series and see if my opinion changes on this story when I finish everything.
That being said, I only sort of liked the book. I'm going to read all of them since I own them, and I do have moderately high hopes that the story improves as it goes on.
As for the first book, I mean this with all the affection I can muster, but it reads like fanfiction. The world-building is minimal and the narrative acts like we already know who these characters are, so not a lot of introduction, descriptions, and even more minimal personality development as the story goes on. In addition, since this feels so heavily like a fanfic with new names pasted in, the romance between Corbet and Rauri also feels like we should just expect them to be together.
The romance between the leads didn't really develop, they just met and Rauri just wanted Corbet and even the inner monologues of Corbet being in denial seemed weird when he just ultimately went along with everything.
The ending of the first book was a cliffhanger I would expect out of a weird anime, which fuels the fanfiction feeling even more unfortunately.
But again, I have all of the books so I'm going to finish the series and see if my opinion changes on this story when I finish everything.
February 22, 2023
I don’t really know what to say. The reviews were so glowing.
To start, we know nothing about Corbet other than that he speaks French, and is traveling. Why? Where to? For how long? What is he in such a hurry for that he can’t spend the night in the village? What is the time period? We don’t know. We never find out.
Then, enter Ruari. He stumbles upon Corbet in the woods, and is immediately enchanted by his… wit? They’ve barely interacted. We’ve seen no real wit.
Once in the fae realm, Corbet seems wholly unmotivated to save himself. He vaguely considers leaving, but makes no real effort to figure out how, concoct plans, question his surroundings… he seemingly settles into being Ruari’s lapdog for no real reason. Ruari insists he’s challenging and intelligent, but… what? He mindlessly asks a few questions. That’s all we’ve got.
In short, the characters, their dialogue, the motivation—it’s all incredibly one dimensional. There’s very little world building and plot to balance such flat characters. I should’ve DNF’d early on, but the glowing, obsessive reviews had me stumped.
To start, we know nothing about Corbet other than that he speaks French, and is traveling. Why? Where to? For how long? What is he in such a hurry for that he can’t spend the night in the village? What is the time period? We don’t know. We never find out.
Then, enter Ruari. He stumbles upon Corbet in the woods, and is immediately enchanted by his… wit? They’ve barely interacted. We’ve seen no real wit.
Once in the fae realm, Corbet seems wholly unmotivated to save himself. He vaguely considers leaving, but makes no real effort to figure out how, concoct plans, question his surroundings… he seemingly settles into being Ruari’s lapdog for no real reason. Ruari insists he’s challenging and intelligent, but… what? He mindlessly asks a few questions. That’s all we’ve got.
In short, the characters, their dialogue, the motivation—it’s all incredibly one dimensional. There’s very little world building and plot to balance such flat characters. I should’ve DNF’d early on, but the glowing, obsessive reviews had me stumped.
February 5, 2017
This had a fairy tale-like quality to it, which usually doesn't work for full-length novels, but somehow worked beautifully here. It reminds me more of the dozens of medieval texts involving someone being kidnapped by the Fae more so than anything else, except much more innocent and much more gay.
I do wish we'd gotten a little more background on the characters—especially Corbet—but that's really my only complaint. I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment.
I do wish we'd gotten a little more background on the characters—especially Corbet—but that's really my only complaint. I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment.
January 2, 2017
AN AWESOME, AMAZING AND INTERESTING BOOK
January 28, 2017
4.5 stars
October 3, 2017
I bought this on a whim from a friend's recommendation, and knew it was a right decision before I even finished the first chapter. I can't begin to explain what a masterfully and artfully written book this is, from the characters to the plot to the concept as a whole. I can't remember any other time in my life where I've consumed a novel as fast as I took up this one. I could hardly put it down, and I'm sure that will be the case with the sequel now that I'm moving on to that one.
I'm absolutely in love with every character, main, minor, and antagonist alike. Environments and settings are described with intricate beauty, and details like taste and scent are equally indulged alongside the breathtaking mental visuals. The world that T.D. has built is fascinating even if you lack much knowledge of mythology (I certainly do). T.D. has a way of looking through the character's eyes and portraying their thoughts and emotions that you're inextricably sucked into the story, and I know for sure that I became much more emotionally invested than I originally planned.
The plot involves twists and turns, all of which are perfectly executed, that make it straddle the line between blissful romance and tragedy; you'll decide for yourself which it may be when it's all said and done. If I had to compare it to another piece, I'd say Brontide is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet in all its bittersweet glory. No one can quite match up to the perfection of Mercutio, but I'm sure if Tailan could talk he'd be comparable in his loveable snappiness.
Every second with this book in your hands is a second well spent. T.D. Cloud has cemented herself a title as one of my favorite authors of all time.
I'm absolutely in love with every character, main, minor, and antagonist alike. Environments and settings are described with intricate beauty, and details like taste and scent are equally indulged alongside the breathtaking mental visuals. The world that T.D. has built is fascinating even if you lack much knowledge of mythology (I certainly do). T.D. has a way of looking through the character's eyes and portraying their thoughts and emotions that you're inextricably sucked into the story, and I know for sure that I became much more emotionally invested than I originally planned.
The plot involves twists and turns, all of which are perfectly executed, that make it straddle the line between blissful romance and tragedy; you'll decide for yourself which it may be when it's all said and done. If I had to compare it to another piece, I'd say Brontide is reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet in all its bittersweet glory. No one can quite match up to the perfection of Mercutio, but I'm sure if Tailan could talk he'd be comparable in his loveable snappiness.
Every second with this book in your hands is a second well spent. T.D. Cloud has cemented herself a title as one of my favorite authors of all time.
July 2, 2017
I had heard about this book from several people and decided to check out the reviews on it. Everyone seemed to absolutely love this series. For me, however, I just could not find myself enthralled. The world that the author built was stunning and the concept behind the novel is one of my all time favorites; and yet, it just didn't pan out for me. That being said, I think the only thing that bothered me enough to say I wont pick up the next book is the fact that the characters were so one dimensional. There was so much potential for them to have deep interactions, but it went from 'oh I despise you' to 'I'm irrevocably in love with you'. Perhaps this kind of relationship evolution works for some individuals, for myself, it made it much more difficult to believe in the emotional development of the characters. Character development is the love of my life. So maybe Im just being Uber picky about it. That being said, it was a decent read and a nice idea, but it should have been edited a little more and had the story ironed out before being published.
July 4, 2017
Brontide lets your imagination run wild.
Brontide is a story between the mortal Corbet and the fae king Ruari, who Ruari quickly becomes infatuated with. The romance is the catalyst for a plot that is just as investing as the romance itself. It introduces a cast that become more prominent as the series goes on and the way the setting and characters are described put you right in the elegant Seelie palace. The art is gorgeous too! It’s not often that a book has lovely illustrations for the cover AND each chapter. Brontide has you rooting for our leads and clinging to your seat with anticipation, especially at the end – leaving you wanting more as soon as you finish the last page.
If you haven’t been interested in fairies before, you will now.
Brontide is a story between the mortal Corbet and the fae king Ruari, who Ruari quickly becomes infatuated with. The romance is the catalyst for a plot that is just as investing as the romance itself. It introduces a cast that become more prominent as the series goes on and the way the setting and characters are described put you right in the elegant Seelie palace. The art is gorgeous too! It’s not often that a book has lovely illustrations for the cover AND each chapter. Brontide has you rooting for our leads and clinging to your seat with anticipation, especially at the end – leaving you wanting more as soon as you finish the last page.
If you haven’t been interested in fairies before, you will now.
December 9, 2018
I don’t usually write reviews but damn I want more people to read these books. I’m a huge fan of fae and their lore so finding out about this series got me very excited. Also add on the LGBT romance and you’ve got me hooked. The beginning of the book I was very unsure but as I continued I really started to enjoy it. Even though the romance is a little quick for my tastes it was very enjoyable especially with the amazing world building. I really loved this book at the end and I’m excited for the second book to arrive in my mailbox. If you enjoy fae and the lore around them and LGBT romances please read this book and the others. The author is very talented and I’m excited to see where they take this series.
August 14, 2019
I really don't know how to feel about this book, and I don't want to be mean neither... but this was horribly dissapointing, I just wasn't prepared for this kind of romance (insta-love) like ridiculously quick, the romance plot I think wasn't so convincent, it kind of felt like forced. About some "magical" explanations, well in my oppinion that was .... messy, I mean I'd have liked more detailed explanations and descriptions about the history of this kind of magic but it was like.. yes, messy and quick. I really thought I wouldn't finish it, the illustrations were so pretty though.... but yeah not my kind of book. Don't think I'll read the sequels neither.
August 22, 2019
DNF at 75%
2 stars
I was really trying to finish this book, really going for it and then something happens which makes another big thing happen which could've been prevented (???)
I've been meaning to read this book for the longest time, and when I started I was let a bit down because it didn't respond to my high expectations.
I'm quite sure that what happened at this time in the book will probably mean something else but it's just a unoriginal and doesn't make sense to the proportions it causes, just wth.
Will not continue the series.
Side note: I started the book in JANUARY and it's now AUGUST - I really tried guys.
2 stars
I was really trying to finish this book, really going for it and then something happens which makes another big thing happen which could've been prevented (???)
I've been meaning to read this book for the longest time, and when I started I was let a bit down because it didn't respond to my high expectations.
I'm quite sure that what happened at this time in the book will probably mean something else but it's just a unoriginal and doesn't make sense to the proportions it causes, just wth.
Will not continue the series.
Side note: I started the book in JANUARY and it's now AUGUST - I really tried guys.
February 25, 2018
I’m not sure how I feel about this book. I gave it 3 stars after I first finished it because I enjoyed aspects of the writing style, but I changed it to 2 because of all the problems I have with it. Honestly, I may still change it to a 1 star review.
I want to preface this by saying there isn’t anything wrong with the writing. Cloud has a nice writing style; it could be repetitive and slightly hard to follow, but overall I had no qualms with it. My issues were with the plot, with the characters - it’s 2018 and all LGBTQIA+ books should no longer be reminiscent of bad yaoi manga stereotypes.
Because that’s what this book was.
Corbet was the meek, legit poor guy and Ruari was the possessive, rich guy. Corbet would say no to something and Ruari would still do it. He made Corbet entirely dependent on him and never properly communicated with him. The relationship made me uncomfortable because of how unhealthy it felt.
Some of the supporting characters were good. The fae who guarded Corbet’s door, Tailan and the other animals were all enjoyable, but they couldn’t save it. The damage was done from the get-go with Ruari and Corbet; I couldn’t root for them. Honestly, I would have rather had a book where Corbet was a human gold digger who swindled the faerie king for all he was worth.
Also the ending was stupid, I’m ngl.
I won’t be reading the next books, this wasn’t my cup of tea. I’m not here for the stereotypes or the toxicity of the relationship or the slight stupidity of the plot. At least Cloud’s writing style was nice...
I want to preface this by saying there isn’t anything wrong with the writing. Cloud has a nice writing style; it could be repetitive and slightly hard to follow, but overall I had no qualms with it. My issues were with the plot, with the characters - it’s 2018 and all LGBTQIA+ books should no longer be reminiscent of bad yaoi manga stereotypes.
Because that’s what this book was.
Corbet was the meek, legit poor guy and Ruari was the possessive, rich guy. Corbet would say no to something and Ruari would still do it. He made Corbet entirely dependent on him and never properly communicated with him. The relationship made me uncomfortable because of how unhealthy it felt.
Some of the supporting characters were good. The fae who guarded Corbet’s door, Tailan and the other animals were all enjoyable, but they couldn’t save it. The damage was done from the get-go with Ruari and Corbet; I couldn’t root for them. Honestly, I would have rather had a book where Corbet was a human gold digger who swindled the faerie king for all he was worth.
Also the ending was stupid, I’m ngl.
I won’t be reading the next books, this wasn’t my cup of tea. I’m not here for the stereotypes or the toxicity of the relationship or the slight stupidity of the plot. At least Cloud’s writing style was nice...
February 22, 2019
I really enjoyed this book and the way that the author writes about her characters. I started out really liking Corbet and, though I still have a soft spot for him, I now also have a soft spot for Ruari. It pained me to find out that Corbet didn't remember him near the end of this book, but I have a feeling that he will soon. My heart could feel the pain that Ruari felt, but he doesn't strike me as someone that gives up easily; he will continue to fight until he has his lost one back. I am excited to read the next book (in fact, I already am!).
February 18, 2021
Where do all these good reviews come from? There is no bloody plot in the first 50% of the book. None! Instead we get a 10 page description of someone taking a bath. And the insta-romance made no sense. Like wth ?
Read first half, started skimming thought the 2nd half but God... it was just awful so DNF I actually regret paying for this book. Is it too late to get a refund?
So much potential but all gone to waste.
Read first half, started skimming thought the 2nd half but God... it was just awful so DNF I actually regret paying for this book. Is it too late to get a refund?
So much potential but all gone to waste.
July 1, 2018
Love love love this book! I got this book from the author at ColossalCon (along with two of their other books) and I was excited to have new books but I didn’t know how much I would fall in love with the characters. Corbet and Ruari are such well written characters and I just loved their interactions. The ending killed me so I can’t wait to read the next two books and see how it gets resolved.
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