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Faethered Fae #1
Faerie Fallen
She looks like an angel ... acts like a human ... and must risk her life and heart to save the faerie realm.
Sela is a young, feather-winged faerie, living a life of magical ease. Her fellow Fae portray themselves as benevolent gods, worthy of human allegiance. But Sela would rather carouse with mortals than rule them.
When Sela gets caught illegally fraternizing with humans, her leaders cast her out of magical society, declaring her a fallen faerie. They command her to masquerade as a human and spy on the Darros, a family scheming to take down the Fae. If she helps stamp out the conspiracy, her exile will end. Sela agrees to tutor the Darros' son, Kovian, in the Fae language.
When she arrives, she discovers Kovian isn’t a little boy. He’s eighteen. He’s gorgeous. And he despises faeries. Wearing her human glamour, Sela intends to charm him into revealing his family’s plot against the Fae. But she finds herself truly falling for him, while he pushes her away at every turn.
Despite Kovian’s hostility, Sela is determined to earn his trust, learn his secrets, and save her people … if his family doesn’t discover her true identity and kill her first.
If you like rich worldbuilding, unexpected twists, and slow-burn/enemies-to-lovers romance, then you’ll love Carol Beth Anderson’s Feathered Fae series. Buy Book 1, Faerie Fallen, now.
•••
This romantic fantasy series is written for upper-YA and adult audiences. Expect some language and violence, plus sensual romance scenes with high emotions and mild heat. Perfect for fans of Elise Kova and Holly Black.
Content advisory: Faerie Fallen contains depictions of self-harm, an instance of attempted assault in the form of an interrupted unwanted kiss, and various types of non-sexual violence, including sadism, masochism, and harm to an infant (briefly described).
Sela is a young, feather-winged faerie, living a life of magical ease. Her fellow Fae portray themselves as benevolent gods, worthy of human allegiance. But Sela would rather carouse with mortals than rule them.
When Sela gets caught illegally fraternizing with humans, her leaders cast her out of magical society, declaring her a fallen faerie. They command her to masquerade as a human and spy on the Darros, a family scheming to take down the Fae. If she helps stamp out the conspiracy, her exile will end. Sela agrees to tutor the Darros' son, Kovian, in the Fae language.
When she arrives, she discovers Kovian isn’t a little boy. He’s eighteen. He’s gorgeous. And he despises faeries. Wearing her human glamour, Sela intends to charm him into revealing his family’s plot against the Fae. But she finds herself truly falling for him, while he pushes her away at every turn.
Despite Kovian’s hostility, Sela is determined to earn his trust, learn his secrets, and save her people … if his family doesn’t discover her true identity and kill her first.
If you like rich worldbuilding, unexpected twists, and slow-burn/enemies-to-lovers romance, then you’ll love Carol Beth Anderson’s Feathered Fae series. Buy Book 1, Faerie Fallen, now.
•••
This romantic fantasy series is written for upper-YA and adult audiences. Expect some language and violence, plus sensual romance scenes with high emotions and mild heat. Perfect for fans of Elise Kova and Holly Black.
Content advisory: Faerie Fallen contains depictions of self-harm, an instance of attempted assault in the form of an interrupted unwanted kiss, and various types of non-sexual violence, including sadism, masochism, and harm to an infant (briefly described).
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Published December 14, 2021
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About the author
Carol Beth Anderson
24 books298 followersThanks for visiting my Goodreads Author page! I'm Beth, author of fantasy novels, microfiction, and nonfiction for authors.
If you're interested in what books I'm reading, feel free to connect with me on my personal Goodreads too.
If you're interested in what books I'm reading, feel free to connect with me on my personal Goodreads too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
December 15, 2021
I was given an early copy of this book, and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
I discovered Anderson's fantastic writing through her Magic Eaters series (so good!), and jumped at the chance to read an advanced reader copy of her newest series. And it did not disappoint! It starts off strong right out of the gate and just keeps going, with a fun, faerie-filled dystopian world where nothing is truly black and white. It's all about perspective. And the romance! Loved all the banter, the conflicted feelings, the FORBIDDEN LOVE. Yes, please. And that ending was *chef's kiss*. If you enjoy spicy YA fantasy, I highly recommend you check this one out!
I discovered Anderson's fantastic writing through her Magic Eaters series (so good!), and jumped at the chance to read an advanced reader copy of her newest series. And it did not disappoint! It starts off strong right out of the gate and just keeps going, with a fun, faerie-filled dystopian world where nothing is truly black and white. It's all about perspective. And the romance! Loved all the banter, the conflicted feelings, the FORBIDDEN LOVE. Yes, please. And that ending was *chef's kiss*. If you enjoy spicy YA fantasy, I highly recommend you check this one out!
December 6, 2021
This book took a while to get into which is partly down to me—I wasn't told sold on the fae/space mash-up, and if I see any more than 5 words I'm not familiar with (including names) my mind goes NOPE. But I adored Anderson's short story in the Villainous anthology, her writing is brilliant, and I felt exactly the same starting the Six of Crows which is now one of my FAVOURITE BOOKS EVER.
By the time Kovian and Sela started their lessons, I was hooked. I loved the chemistry between them even though attraction-at-first-sight is not one of my favourite dynamics. The bickering and love/hate quickly had me shouting "JUST KISS" and boy, when they did... wowzers. Very hot.
There's some great twists in this story, one I saw coming, and one I really didn't. Emotions were great, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
By the time Kovian and Sela started their lessons, I was hooked. I loved the chemistry between them even though attraction-at-first-sight is not one of my favourite dynamics. The bickering and love/hate quickly had me shouting "JUST KISS" and boy, when they did... wowzers. Very hot.
There's some great twists in this story, one I saw coming, and one I really didn't. Emotions were great, and I can't wait to see what happens next!
October 27, 2021
As usual, Anderson does a fantastic job writing young adult characters who are relatable and realistic—even when they have angel wings sprouting from their backs. Sela and Kovian are each a unique blend of intelligent, innocent, and broken.
The supporting cast are developed enough. Their relationships with the main characters are well defined, but morph and grow realistically as the story progresses. We grow to hate, love, and forgive them right along with Sela and Kovian.
The worldbuilding for Faerie Fallen is fascinating. It shows a human world frozen in a quasi early-1900s state of technological development. They have analog clocks, for example, and drive carts pulled by native beasts of burden. Yet birth control is readily available. Human society is mostly kept content in this state. The magic of the Seelie Court brings them health and relative ease of life. The beautiful faeries also protect them from the terrifying Unseelie.
Anderson also drops little hints in her worldbuilding. For example, it seems that Transa — the planet where the story takes place — seems to be in the same story universe as Anderson’s Magic Eaters books. Additional depth is added by the teasing of more revelations to come. Such as how the faeries came to exist, and… well, I’m not going to spoil anything.
I just plain enjoy the way Anderson writes. I find her authorial voice to be pleasant and engaging. In particular, I enjoy her use of the different senses in her descriptions and imagery.
Lastly, I’m so mad about the cliffhanger ending! I wanted more of the book and I plan to pout just a little bit until I get the next one in my grubby little mitts. Anderson did a masterful job of building up a world in the early chapters and then proceeding to dismantle and warp it bit by bit through the rest of the book. Everyone in this book is wearing a mask at the start, and it is so much fun to watch those masks fall away.
The supporting cast are developed enough. Their relationships with the main characters are well defined, but morph and grow realistically as the story progresses. We grow to hate, love, and forgive them right along with Sela and Kovian.
The worldbuilding for Faerie Fallen is fascinating. It shows a human world frozen in a quasi early-1900s state of technological development. They have analog clocks, for example, and drive carts pulled by native beasts of burden. Yet birth control is readily available. Human society is mostly kept content in this state. The magic of the Seelie Court brings them health and relative ease of life. The beautiful faeries also protect them from the terrifying Unseelie.
Anderson also drops little hints in her worldbuilding. For example, it seems that Transa — the planet where the story takes place — seems to be in the same story universe as Anderson’s Magic Eaters books. Additional depth is added by the teasing of more revelations to come. Such as how the faeries came to exist, and… well, I’m not going to spoil anything.
I just plain enjoy the way Anderson writes. I find her authorial voice to be pleasant and engaging. In particular, I enjoy her use of the different senses in her descriptions and imagery.
Lastly, I’m so mad about the cliffhanger ending! I wanted more of the book and I plan to pout just a little bit until I get the next one in my grubby little mitts. Anderson did a masterful job of building up a world in the early chapters and then proceeding to dismantle and warp it bit by bit through the rest of the book. Everyone in this book is wearing a mask at the start, and it is so much fun to watch those masks fall away.
December 13, 2021
Selaphiel is a faerie, but unlike her kin, she’s never felt at home on Trasna, the planet the Fae inhabit. Sela spends her days putting on a human glamour and sneaking away to the human realm, but her lifestyle comes to a screeching halt when she is brought before the Seelie King. As a punishment for her misbehavior, Ri Ellair demands that Sela pose as a tutor to gain information about humans who hate faeries. If she doesn’t succeed in this task, they will exile her.
When Sela meets Kovian Darro, the devastatingly attractive boy she’s supposed to tutor, she is shocked to realize they are the same age. As she spends more time with Kovian, Sela becomes determined to gain his trust, if only to keep herself from exile. Sela’s kind believe the Fae are superior, and until now, she’s never had reason to believe differently. Yet as time passes, Sela discovers that everything isn’t as black and white as she always believed.
Oh. My. God. I just knew I was going to love this book based on the description, but I didn’t know that I would read it in two hours straight!!! This book is intense, but oh so addicting!!! The world building is brilliantly written, and the descriptive imagery is absolutely exquisite. I’m completely obsessed with this world and the characters in it. Carol Beth Anderson is a new to me author, but I just know I’m going to have to go back and read her other books now!
Let’s talk about the main character, Sela. She’s spunky, snarky, and a bit of a rebel. But the Fae don’t like that, so she gets quite severely punished. I love that her punishment doesn’t dull her personality, instead she becomes more determined to fight for what she believes in. I admire that about her. And Kovian!!! I didn’t like him at first, but let’s just say he’ll grow on you!!!! I also admired the hell out of Ban Iseabal, the Unseelie Queen. As for that ending… I’m gonna need a bit to recover. I completely recommend!!!!
When Sela meets Kovian Darro, the devastatingly attractive boy she’s supposed to tutor, she is shocked to realize they are the same age. As she spends more time with Kovian, Sela becomes determined to gain his trust, if only to keep herself from exile. Sela’s kind believe the Fae are superior, and until now, she’s never had reason to believe differently. Yet as time passes, Sela discovers that everything isn’t as black and white as she always believed.
Oh. My. God. I just knew I was going to love this book based on the description, but I didn’t know that I would read it in two hours straight!!! This book is intense, but oh so addicting!!! The world building is brilliantly written, and the descriptive imagery is absolutely exquisite. I’m completely obsessed with this world and the characters in it. Carol Beth Anderson is a new to me author, but I just know I’m going to have to go back and read her other books now!
Let’s talk about the main character, Sela. She’s spunky, snarky, and a bit of a rebel. But the Fae don’t like that, so she gets quite severely punished. I love that her punishment doesn’t dull her personality, instead she becomes more determined to fight for what she believes in. I admire that about her. And Kovian!!! I didn’t like him at first, but let’s just say he’ll grow on you!!!! I also admired the hell out of Ban Iseabal, the Unseelie Queen. As for that ending… I’m gonna need a bit to recover. I completely recommend!!!!
November 23, 2021
This book blew my mind. I just am still processing it. I loved the twists on fae lore and intertwined history. But I need the next book yesterday.
It is a bit steamier than other stories by Carol Beth (though all clothes remain on), so expect something a bit more adult than anything you've read from her before.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It is a bit steamier than other stories by Carol Beth (though all clothes remain on), so expect something a bit more adult than anything you've read from her before.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2022
4.5 stars
I expect to like Carol Beth Anderson’s books when I start a new one, after all, I’ve liked all the ones I’ve read before. What I should expect by now but didn’t is to be so pleasantly surprised by them time and again.
This book’s genre is Romantic Fantasy which as a change from just Fantasy in her last series, I’d assume would just heavily focus on a romantic relationship with the details of the world and all its workings not being explored much. The focus was there, of course, but the rich world building and secondary characters and everything else was there too and made things so much better than initially expected.
I also really enjoyed the exploration of what is a mask and about identity which, actually, worked really well with the cliffhanger end. Yes, you get a resolution of some problems but you end up wanting to read the next one as soon as possible. I can hardly wait!
I received an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I expect to like Carol Beth Anderson’s books when I start a new one, after all, I’ve liked all the ones I’ve read before. What I should expect by now but didn’t is to be so pleasantly surprised by them time and again.
This book’s genre is Romantic Fantasy which as a change from just Fantasy in her last series, I’d assume would just heavily focus on a romantic relationship with the details of the world and all its workings not being explored much. The focus was there, of course, but the rich world building and secondary characters and everything else was there too and made things so much better than initially expected.
I also really enjoyed the exploration of what is a mask and about identity which, actually, worked really well with the cliffhanger end. Yes, you get a resolution of some problems but you end up wanting to read the next one as soon as possible. I can hardly wait!
I received an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 28, 2022
I absolutely loved this story. The writing is easy to follow, the story is well paced, and the twists that occur really are unexpected.
I enjoyed each chapter beginning with an entry for an original human settler of the planet. To have that glimpse of the past really adds to the world building. I enjoyed both MCs because they felt fully fleshed. They weren’t one note and really developed through the book. My only complaint would be that I have to wait for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
I enjoyed each chapter beginning with an entry for an original human settler of the planet. To have that glimpse of the past really adds to the world building. I enjoyed both MCs because they felt fully fleshed. They weren’t one note and really developed through the book. My only complaint would be that I have to wait for more.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am leaving an honest review.
December 15, 2021
Plot and Premise:
When rebellious young faerie Sela finds herself on the wrong side of the king’s displeasure, she is given a chance to earn back her place in the Seelie Court. To do this, she must infiltrate the household of a human family suspected of plotting against the faeries. She has two months to find out something useful, or face banishment. The mission turns out to be more than Sela bargained for when she meets Kovian, the oldest son of the Darro family.
Oh, also, this is all happening on another planet in the distant future after both faeries and human separately fled earth and colonized it.
I really enjoy this undercover sort of enemies to lovers (but unknown to one side of the equation) premise. Anderson works in a lot of our favorite romance tropes in fun, refreshing ways. The plot is engaging and twisty. Anderson reveals surprises for the reader with expert timing.
Characters:
As usual, Anderson does a fantastic job writing young adult characters who are relatable and realistic—even when they have angel wings sprouting from their backs. Sela and Kovian are each a unique blend of intelligent, innocent, and broken.
The supporting cast are developed enough. Their relationships with the main characters are well defined, but morph and grow realistically as the story progresses. We grow to hate, love, and forgive them right along with Sela and Kovian.
Worldbuilding:
The worldbuilding for Faerie Fallen is fascinating. It shows a human world frozen in a quasi early-1900s state of technological development. They have analog clocks, for example, and drive carts pulled by native beasts of burden. Yet birth control is readily available. Human society is mostly kept content in this state. The magic of the Seelie Court brings them health and relative ease of life. The beautiful faeries also protect them from the terrifying Unseelie.
Anderson also drops little hints in her worldbuilding. For example, it seems that Transa — the planet where the story takes place — seems to be in the same story universe as Anderson’s Magic Eaters books. Additional depth is added by the teasing of more revelations to come. Such as how the faeries came to exist, and… well, I’m not going to spoil anything.
Writing:
I just plain enjoy the way Anderson writes. I find her authorial voice to be pleasant and engaging. In particular, I enjoy her use of the different senses in her descriptions and imagery.
Final Thoughts:
I’m so mad about the cliffhanger ending. I wanted more of the book and I plan to pout just a little bit until I get the next one in my grubby little mitts. Anderson did a masterful job of building up a world in the early chapters and then proceeding to dismantle and warp it bit by bit through the rest of the book. Everyone in this book is wearing a mask at the start, and it is so much fun to watch those masks fall away.
5 stars. Give me the next book please.
When rebellious young faerie Sela finds herself on the wrong side of the king’s displeasure, she is given a chance to earn back her place in the Seelie Court. To do this, she must infiltrate the household of a human family suspected of plotting against the faeries. She has two months to find out something useful, or face banishment. The mission turns out to be more than Sela bargained for when she meets Kovian, the oldest son of the Darro family.
Oh, also, this is all happening on another planet in the distant future after both faeries and human separately fled earth and colonized it.
I really enjoy this undercover sort of enemies to lovers (but unknown to one side of the equation) premise. Anderson works in a lot of our favorite romance tropes in fun, refreshing ways. The plot is engaging and twisty. Anderson reveals surprises for the reader with expert timing.
Characters:
As usual, Anderson does a fantastic job writing young adult characters who are relatable and realistic—even when they have angel wings sprouting from their backs. Sela and Kovian are each a unique blend of intelligent, innocent, and broken.
The supporting cast are developed enough. Their relationships with the main characters are well defined, but morph and grow realistically as the story progresses. We grow to hate, love, and forgive them right along with Sela and Kovian.
Worldbuilding:
The worldbuilding for Faerie Fallen is fascinating. It shows a human world frozen in a quasi early-1900s state of technological development. They have analog clocks, for example, and drive carts pulled by native beasts of burden. Yet birth control is readily available. Human society is mostly kept content in this state. The magic of the Seelie Court brings them health and relative ease of life. The beautiful faeries also protect them from the terrifying Unseelie.
Anderson also drops little hints in her worldbuilding. For example, it seems that Transa — the planet where the story takes place — seems to be in the same story universe as Anderson’s Magic Eaters books. Additional depth is added by the teasing of more revelations to come. Such as how the faeries came to exist, and… well, I’m not going to spoil anything.
Writing:
I just plain enjoy the way Anderson writes. I find her authorial voice to be pleasant and engaging. In particular, I enjoy her use of the different senses in her descriptions and imagery.
Final Thoughts:
I’m so mad about the cliffhanger ending. I wanted more of the book and I plan to pout just a little bit until I get the next one in my grubby little mitts. Anderson did a masterful job of building up a world in the early chapters and then proceeding to dismantle and warp it bit by bit through the rest of the book. Everyone in this book is wearing a mask at the start, and it is so much fun to watch those masks fall away.
5 stars. Give me the next book please.
December 14, 2021
I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I was also fortunate enough to serve as a beta reader and there’s nothing better than seeing the end product!
Beth crafts an amazing world in this book, one that feels alive, lived in, and with all the flaws of a real place. We’re given bits and pieces of the history while being simultaneously introduced to the idea that history may not be as cut and dry as first believed. It’s a beautifully crafted intrigue and one that will leave you thinking and guessing well after you turn the final page.
Our two main characters are where the heart of the story lies and they both serve it well. Don’t expect role models here! Each of them come with their own baggage and flaws, ones that interfere and dictate their view of the world. Because of this, there are elements that put them directly at odds with one another. Watching them trying to figure out the best way to navigate these seemingly impossible differences is a joy to observe because it takes the very realistic path of a relationship—trials, joys, and tribulations and forming a new outlook together. It is a raw and real relationship on page. I cannot wait to see how it unravels.
It’s a slow burn story, in every sense of the world. It may take you some time to truly begin to understand and become embraced by this setting and world. It’s worth the time invested. You will long for more by the end. Faerie Fallen is well worth your time.
I was also fortunate enough to serve as a beta reader and there’s nothing better than seeing the end product!
Beth crafts an amazing world in this book, one that feels alive, lived in, and with all the flaws of a real place. We’re given bits and pieces of the history while being simultaneously introduced to the idea that history may not be as cut and dry as first believed. It’s a beautifully crafted intrigue and one that will leave you thinking and guessing well after you turn the final page.
Our two main characters are where the heart of the story lies and they both serve it well. Don’t expect role models here! Each of them come with their own baggage and flaws, ones that interfere and dictate their view of the world. Because of this, there are elements that put them directly at odds with one another. Watching them trying to figure out the best way to navigate these seemingly impossible differences is a joy to observe because it takes the very realistic path of a relationship—trials, joys, and tribulations and forming a new outlook together. It is a raw and real relationship on page. I cannot wait to see how it unravels.
It’s a slow burn story, in every sense of the world. It may take you some time to truly begin to understand and become embraced by this setting and world. It’s worth the time invested. You will long for more by the end. Faerie Fallen is well worth your time.
December 9, 2021
Fantastical World
Really enjoyed all the layers of this book and how in-depth it goes on how all the Fae/Humans all interact/live among each other. It also loops back to when they first got there to the present. You got a bit of everything going on here and very excited for Book 2! %-D
On to the next! #HappyReading ♥
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Really enjoyed all the layers of this book and how in-depth it goes on how all the Fae/Humans all interact/live among each other. It also loops back to when they first got there to the present. You got a bit of everything going on here and very excited for Book 2! %-D
On to the next! #HappyReading ♥
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2023
| DNF 20%
┈
While the idea of this book is pretty interesting, I couldn't get into it. I was lost and confused and found it hard to focus on what was happening, so I decided it was better to DNF it than struggle to continue.
┈
While the idea of this book is pretty interesting, I couldn't get into it. I was lost and confused and found it hard to focus on what was happening, so I decided it was better to DNF it than struggle to continue.
December 16, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read of Carol Beth Anderson & I’m hooked! Her writing is phenomenal & I fell in love. I couldn’t put this book down, it has everything I love in a story. I’m so thankful I discovered this amazing author. I highly recommend reading it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2021
Sela is a young untested Fae. She likes to play with the humans and does not appreciate being a fairy like others. The king decides to punish her by making her a human spy. She has to glamor herself and become a teacher to a human who hates fae. The story happens on another planet in the future where humans and fairy live together but with tensions. There is very little steam but a flirtatious theme between the 2 main characters. Not sure if this book is a series, but many questions were left open at the end so I would think so. There is seelie and unseelie, violence and magic.
December 8, 2021
Faerie Fallen
By Carol Beth Anderson
Feathered Fae #1
Urban Fantasy • Paranormal Romance • Syfy
This book blew my mind it wasn't what I expected but in a good way. Faerie Fallen is the first book in the Feathered Fae series. This is a multiple perspective paranormal Syfy fantasy, I know it sounds weird but the story is surprisingly complex and has interesting characters.
So the story doesn't take place on Earth. Like a thousand years ago the Fae fled the persecution on Earth. They were hated, captured, mistreated, killed, and gods knows what else. They arrived on a new plant and were thriving and then seven hundred years later the humans followed, fleeing the destruction of Earth. Fast forward to the present the fae are worried about history repeating itself and the humans want to do the same thing they did on Earth and are mistrustful of the fae. Not everyone feels that way, some humans like the fae, some want to stay separate then there are ones who want to annihilate every single one of them, genocide. The faeries aren't perfect they have their issues as well, most don't care about the humans but there is one in every group. So while the humans have their extremists, the fae do as well.
This book has an enemies-to-lovers trope, Sela is one of the main perspectives the story is told from. Sela is a Seelie faerie who doesn't fit in with the fae and her mother doesn't care for her so she finds herself in one of the two human cities in a glamour hang with the humans but they also remind her that she isn't human so she doesn't feel like she fits in anywhere. However, she is fascinated by humans and lobes to interact with them. After sneaking out one night she's caught at a human club by the Seelie king's guard. The punishment is to spend months with a family who targets the fae and get Intel or spend the next two centuries on an island, alone in exile. Sela is an eighteen-year-old who is just trying to find where she fits. She's a kind soul who was trapped by her own king and forced into a dangerous position. While the Seelie king had a point about how they need to be perceived by the humans the way he went about lecturing her was uncalled for, cruel even.
The potential love interest is Koivan Darro, it's his family where Sela is going undercover. Koivan was raised to distrust the fae but he isn't exactly hateful, you can tell it was his upbringing that fuels most of that fire. After a traumatic incident, Koivan's life implodes a little, leaving his life in shambles and leaving Koivan with a mean temperament however there are moments when he isn't so bad. While there is attraction on both ends things are complicated, to say the least. Sela is lying and she's a faerie which Koivan dislikes the fae and something happened in Koivan's past to make him snappy and pull away from society plus it's the whole disliking faeries thing. But somehow they work together, they have a connection if both can open up who knows what might happen.
I was surprised by this story the creativity of creating new names for things, languages, places, and animals, while still incorporating complex histories into the story for both Earth and this new planet. Also, Anderson has created unique mythology for the fae, how they came to be, what their courts are like, and their political beliefs. I was also surprised by the parallels with the fae conflict with the humans and the American indigenous with the European colonist. The indigenous people, being the fae, are trying to keep their way of life while the colonist (the humans) take over everything. I also noticed some other parallels between our recent social climate and the social climate in the story.
There was a lot of misunderstanding in this story. Misunderstanding about what most the fae want and what most of the humans want but then there is that one group that just wants to destroy anything different from them. I hate the way the Seelie King delivered his lecture but he had a point, the fae need to hold themselves to a different standard than humans to ensure humans that they mean no harm, that they want to help, and are kind. All of it is used as a safety measure, to put forth a personality that the humans would want to hurt, destroy. It's another way to keep the far safe and I hate to say it, they need it and anyone going outside that mirage is threatening the safety of others. It's a very complex situation but is another fact that drew me into the story.
These characters are so incredibly complex, no one is strictly black or white, it's all shades of grey. More than a few are completely convinced everything their side is doing is right. There is a lot of manipulation, underhandedness, secret alliances, spies, double agents, and plain old dirty dealing. While the Unseelie may look monstrous and have violent ways but the queen, Iseabal, believes I'm freedom, even for the humans. The Seelie king, Ellair on the other hand wants to dominate everything fae and human alike. What it comes down to is that neither side is fully evil but a few rogues could ruin the tentative peace between the two people and it looks like war is coming.
This story is very juicy. There's a whole lot of lying, plotting, drama, and intrigue. Everyone's wearing a sort of mask (figuratively) and it's hard to guess peoples' motives and even harder to figure out exactly what happened in the past. The fae are up to something, the humans are up to something. You can't trust anyone and with all the negativity thrown about it's only a matter of time for there's a war. Things aren't strictly black and white, there is a lot of deception, manipulation, there are double agents, ear whispers, and long history between the two. Who knows where the story is headed next.
Dude, that ending. I know authors like to go for shock when it comes to cliffhanger endings but that ending was brutal. So much happened, so much was revealed, and the mother of all plot twists happen. Faerie Fallen is my first book by Ms. Anderson and she has completely captivated me with a unique and interesting story that is beyond creative and filled with intrigue. I'm can't wait to see where the story is headed next.
By Carol Beth Anderson
Feathered Fae #1
Urban Fantasy • Paranormal Romance • Syfy
This book blew my mind it wasn't what I expected but in a good way. Faerie Fallen is the first book in the Feathered Fae series. This is a multiple perspective paranormal Syfy fantasy, I know it sounds weird but the story is surprisingly complex and has interesting characters.
So the story doesn't take place on Earth. Like a thousand years ago the Fae fled the persecution on Earth. They were hated, captured, mistreated, killed, and gods knows what else. They arrived on a new plant and were thriving and then seven hundred years later the humans followed, fleeing the destruction of Earth. Fast forward to the present the fae are worried about history repeating itself and the humans want to do the same thing they did on Earth and are mistrustful of the fae. Not everyone feels that way, some humans like the fae, some want to stay separate then there are ones who want to annihilate every single one of them, genocide. The faeries aren't perfect they have their issues as well, most don't care about the humans but there is one in every group. So while the humans have their extremists, the fae do as well.
This book has an enemies-to-lovers trope, Sela is one of the main perspectives the story is told from. Sela is a Seelie faerie who doesn't fit in with the fae and her mother doesn't care for her so she finds herself in one of the two human cities in a glamour hang with the humans but they also remind her that she isn't human so she doesn't feel like she fits in anywhere. However, she is fascinated by humans and lobes to interact with them. After sneaking out one night she's caught at a human club by the Seelie king's guard. The punishment is to spend months with a family who targets the fae and get Intel or spend the next two centuries on an island, alone in exile. Sela is an eighteen-year-old who is just trying to find where she fits. She's a kind soul who was trapped by her own king and forced into a dangerous position. While the Seelie king had a point about how they need to be perceived by the humans the way he went about lecturing her was uncalled for, cruel even.
The potential love interest is Koivan Darro, it's his family where Sela is going undercover. Koivan was raised to distrust the fae but he isn't exactly hateful, you can tell it was his upbringing that fuels most of that fire. After a traumatic incident, Koivan's life implodes a little, leaving his life in shambles and leaving Koivan with a mean temperament however there are moments when he isn't so bad. While there is attraction on both ends things are complicated, to say the least. Sela is lying and she's a faerie which Koivan dislikes the fae and something happened in Koivan's past to make him snappy and pull away from society plus it's the whole disliking faeries thing. But somehow they work together, they have a connection if both can open up who knows what might happen.
I was surprised by this story the creativity of creating new names for things, languages, places, and animals, while still incorporating complex histories into the story for both Earth and this new planet. Also, Anderson has created unique mythology for the fae, how they came to be, what their courts are like, and their political beliefs. I was also surprised by the parallels with the fae conflict with the humans and the American indigenous with the European colonist. The indigenous people, being the fae, are trying to keep their way of life while the colonist (the humans) take over everything. I also noticed some other parallels between our recent social climate and the social climate in the story.
There was a lot of misunderstanding in this story. Misunderstanding about what most the fae want and what most of the humans want but then there is that one group that just wants to destroy anything different from them. I hate the way the Seelie King delivered his lecture but he had a point, the fae need to hold themselves to a different standard than humans to ensure humans that they mean no harm, that they want to help, and are kind. All of it is used as a safety measure, to put forth a personality that the humans would want to hurt, destroy. It's another way to keep the far safe and I hate to say it, they need it and anyone going outside that mirage is threatening the safety of others. It's a very complex situation but is another fact that drew me into the story.
These characters are so incredibly complex, no one is strictly black or white, it's all shades of grey. More than a few are completely convinced everything their side is doing is right. There is a lot of manipulation, underhandedness, secret alliances, spies, double agents, and plain old dirty dealing. While the Unseelie may look monstrous and have violent ways but the queen, Iseabal, believes I'm freedom, even for the humans. The Seelie king, Ellair on the other hand wants to dominate everything fae and human alike. What it comes down to is that neither side is fully evil but a few rogues could ruin the tentative peace between the two people and it looks like war is coming.
This story is very juicy. There's a whole lot of lying, plotting, drama, and intrigue. Everyone's wearing a sort of mask (figuratively) and it's hard to guess peoples' motives and even harder to figure out exactly what happened in the past. The fae are up to something, the humans are up to something. You can't trust anyone and with all the negativity thrown about it's only a matter of time for there's a war. Things aren't strictly black and white, there is a lot of deception, manipulation, there are double agents, ear whispers, and long history between the two. Who knows where the story is headed next.
Dude, that ending. I know authors like to go for shock when it comes to cliffhanger endings but that ending was brutal. So much happened, so much was revealed, and the mother of all plot twists happen. Faerie Fallen is my first book by Ms. Anderson and she has completely captivated me with a unique and interesting story that is beyond creative and filled with intrigue. I'm can't wait to see where the story is headed next.
February 7, 2022
3.75 stars
The author writes well and has given a lot of attention to the details of her world-building, putting lots of twists on what faerie-lovers come to expect. The idea of sci-fi faeries is definitely creative and took me by surprise. Unfortunately, there was a lot of information to take in, especially the first few chapters, which is normal when establishing a unique world, but while I can appreciate it, it didn’t quite entrance me. I applaud the author’s use of journal excerpts at the beginning of the chapters to trickle in more explanations from a different perspective with hints of humor.
This is because of personal preference, but the romance also didn’t capture my heart, feeling mostly like physical attraction with not much true bonding, although certain events toward the end indicate that the two of them are starting to form that deeper connection I was yearning for.
Speaking of those events, there was a reveal that piqued my interest and hints at some interesting developments for the sequel.
Contains:
-Check content warnings in Goodreads description-
The author writes well and has given a lot of attention to the details of her world-building, putting lots of twists on what faerie-lovers come to expect. The idea of sci-fi faeries is definitely creative and took me by surprise. Unfortunately, there was a lot of information to take in, especially the first few chapters, which is normal when establishing a unique world, but while I can appreciate it, it didn’t quite entrance me. I applaud the author’s use of journal excerpts at the beginning of the chapters to trickle in more explanations from a different perspective with hints of humor.
This is because of personal preference, but the romance also didn’t capture my heart, feeling mostly like physical attraction with not much true bonding, although certain events toward the end indicate that the two of them are starting to form that deeper connection I was yearning for.
Speaking of those events, there was a reveal that piqued my interest and hints at some interesting developments for the sequel.
Contains:
-Check content warnings in Goodreads description-
February 20, 2022
3.5 ✨ rounded up 🖤
I loved the world building of this book, and loved the diary entries at the start of each chapter. The world we are introduced is rich in history and well developed, I just wished we got to see more of it.
This was a different take on faeries, and I cannot fault the writing, but for me I am definitely a more traditional fey fan... I want more darkness .
Saying that, I loved the Unseelie and definitely want to see more of them.
The romance is slow burn, teasing, I did just want to smoosh the two MC's faces togther. KISS DAMMIT! Just personal preference for me, I wanted a little more.
The cover is beautiful, the story engaging, but my dark little heart was after a little more... Teeth
I loved the world building of this book, and loved the diary entries at the start of each chapter. The world we are introduced is rich in history and well developed, I just wished we got to see more of it.
This was a different take on faeries, and I cannot fault the writing, but for me I am definitely a more traditional fey fan... I want more darkness .
Saying that, I loved the Unseelie and definitely want to see more of them.
The romance is slow burn, teasing, I did just want to smoosh the two MC's faces togther. KISS DAMMIT! Just personal preference for me, I wanted a little more.
The cover is beautiful, the story engaging, but my dark little heart was after a little more... Teeth
Read
August 21, 2021Pretty sure I’ve read this manuscript enough times to count it toward my yearly reading goal. ;) Comes out in December, y’all! Just sent it to beta readers today.
November 14, 2021
I have to admit to having felt a little ambiguous about this venture into faerie lore, I’m not sure why...
Oh, ye of little faith! The book is great!
The world building is well thought out and having both the faerie and the human population colonising the same planet to save their race from extinction is an inspired way of having both races living side by side.
The characters are very believable, each having their individual strengths and flaws and beliefs formed by experiences and upbringing. It is wonderful to see how they grow or don’t grow and their views and relationships to each other change. This goes not only for the two main characters, but the other characters significant to the story. Beth has a wonderful way of showing this progression without the secondary characters taking over the spotlight.
Again each chapter starts off with a vignette from the planets history, this time in the form of an excerpt from a teenage boy arriving on the first colonist’s ship.
This is a feature unique to Beth’s works that I absolutely love.
On the planet, called Trasna, the human population seem to live peaceably side by side with the two faerie realms, even helped in most aspects of life by their Seelie neighbours. Underneath brews a deep mistrust of the humans towards the faeries, they believe the assistance the fae provide is meant hold the development and progress of their race back, ensuring faerie dominance and a rebellion is forming.
Sela is a misfit, she doesn’t feel at home in the faerie realm, she is fascinated by humans and their way of life and sneaks off to interact with them in their cities. She is caught and as punishment faces exile, unless she infiltrates a human family as spy for the Seelie King.
The queen of the Unseelie court also keeps a close eye on the affairs in the mortal lands and has her own agents in the city. She has motives of her own to be involved in the events unfolding.
The human family, the Darros, are wealthy, influential industrialists; who are anti-fae and want to peacefully bring change about, by legal and political means.
They engage a tutor in fae language for their elder son Kovian, who is no other than Sela, glamoured to appear human.
Kovian had been a happy, popular teenager, with good grades and a promising future ahead of him, until something happened that turned him into a moody, glowering high school drop-out. Now his family’s only hope of getting him into Uni is by way of taking faerie language as subject, for which there is a dearth of students.
Sela and Kovian are attracted to each other, but deny themselves these feelings for a number of reasons; their clashing views on faerie matters and beliefs being only one of them.
The events that unfold open both teenagers up to issues and agendas they couldn’t have dreamt of.
An intricate tapestry of spies, undercover agents, prejudice, love and unexpected alliances unfolds. Be sure to expect plenty of drama, enemies-to-loves romance, action and unexpected twists.
I received this book as an advance reader copy and am leaving this review of my own volition.
Oh, ye of little faith! The book is great!
The world building is well thought out and having both the faerie and the human population colonising the same planet to save their race from extinction is an inspired way of having both races living side by side.
The characters are very believable, each having their individual strengths and flaws and beliefs formed by experiences and upbringing. It is wonderful to see how they grow or don’t grow and their views and relationships to each other change. This goes not only for the two main characters, but the other characters significant to the story. Beth has a wonderful way of showing this progression without the secondary characters taking over the spotlight.
Again each chapter starts off with a vignette from the planets history, this time in the form of an excerpt from a teenage boy arriving on the first colonist’s ship.
This is a feature unique to Beth’s works that I absolutely love.
On the planet, called Trasna, the human population seem to live peaceably side by side with the two faerie realms, even helped in most aspects of life by their Seelie neighbours. Underneath brews a deep mistrust of the humans towards the faeries, they believe the assistance the fae provide is meant hold the development and progress of their race back, ensuring faerie dominance and a rebellion is forming.
Sela is a misfit, she doesn’t feel at home in the faerie realm, she is fascinated by humans and their way of life and sneaks off to interact with them in their cities. She is caught and as punishment faces exile, unless she infiltrates a human family as spy for the Seelie King.
The queen of the Unseelie court also keeps a close eye on the affairs in the mortal lands and has her own agents in the city. She has motives of her own to be involved in the events unfolding.
The human family, the Darros, are wealthy, influential industrialists; who are anti-fae and want to peacefully bring change about, by legal and political means.
They engage a tutor in fae language for their elder son Kovian, who is no other than Sela, glamoured to appear human.
Kovian had been a happy, popular teenager, with good grades and a promising future ahead of him, until something happened that turned him into a moody, glowering high school drop-out. Now his family’s only hope of getting him into Uni is by way of taking faerie language as subject, for which there is a dearth of students.
Sela and Kovian are attracted to each other, but deny themselves these feelings for a number of reasons; their clashing views on faerie matters and beliefs being only one of them.
The events that unfold open both teenagers up to issues and agendas they couldn’t have dreamt of.
An intricate tapestry of spies, undercover agents, prejudice, love and unexpected alliances unfolds. Be sure to expect plenty of drama, enemies-to-loves romance, action and unexpected twists.
I received this book as an advance reader copy and am leaving this review of my own volition.
December 14, 2021
Full disclosure. I did not expect to like this book. However, Carol Beth Anderson is such a fantastic author, I figured I'd give it a shot anyway. And it didn't cure me of distaste for fae. So there's that.
However, and this is a big however, once again Ms. Anderson has done something new and absolutely delightful, and by the end of the book, not only was I in love with many of the main characters, I found myself anxiously awaiting book two and whatever twists the author will wreak on her characters in the future.
This was definitely fantasy, because, you know, fairies, but there is also an alien (they walk among us) feel, as well as the fairie/human backstop of traveling to the planet(s) via spaceship. Of course, there are also conspiracy theories and forbidden romance, and once again, Beth has reinvented (created?) the genre.
The story in a nutshell: as punishment for liking the humans too much, Sela is sent to tutor a human boy in the fae language. The catch is that his family hates the fae and she has to report back to her king what the family is up to. And the resulting arguments/conversations/sarcasm were perfect. Lots of chaos of all sorts. And characters who grow by learning to listen to each other. It was wonderful. Just read it.
I received an ARC from the author and have reviewed it willingly.
However, and this is a big however, once again Ms. Anderson has done something new and absolutely delightful, and by the end of the book, not only was I in love with many of the main characters, I found myself anxiously awaiting book two and whatever twists the author will wreak on her characters in the future.
This was definitely fantasy, because, you know, fairies, but there is also an alien (they walk among us) feel, as well as the fairie/human backstop of traveling to the planet(s) via spaceship. Of course, there are also conspiracy theories and forbidden romance, and once again, Beth has reinvented (created?) the genre.
The story in a nutshell: as punishment for liking the humans too much, Sela is sent to tutor a human boy in the fae language. The catch is that his family hates the fae and she has to report back to her king what the family is up to. And the resulting arguments/conversations/sarcasm were perfect. Lots of chaos of all sorts. And characters who grow by learning to listen to each other. It was wonderful. Just read it.
I received an ARC from the author and have reviewed it willingly.
November 18, 2021
Nicely crafted story of what happened following both Fae and humans escaping a doomed and polluted Earth. The Fae moved to Trasna first, followed a couple hundred years later by a ship full of human exiles. Since then, the two races have lived in a semi-peaceful existence, with the Fae helping, and sometimes controlling humans as they adapt. This tale starts with Sela, a young Fae feeling lost and unconnected to her race and family. She often sneaks away to glamour herself as a human and enjoy what seems like a stronger connection to them. When she does so once to often, the Seelie king orders her to pretend to be human and pose as a tutor in the Fae language for Kovian, a twenty year old human whose family is despairing of his attitude and lack of motivation. Sela is tasked with trying to learn what his family is doing to oppose the Fae.
Despite initial hostility between them, the inevitable attraction grows, fueled by both trying to convince the other of the validity of their beliefs. Add in multiple layers of intrigue, a truly evil member of Kovian's family, involvement by the Unseelie Fae, the great way the sparks between Sela and Kovian fly and you have a very interesting story that will come to completion with the sequel.
Despite initial hostility between them, the inevitable attraction grows, fueled by both trying to convince the other of the validity of their beliefs. Add in multiple layers of intrigue, a truly evil member of Kovian's family, involvement by the Unseelie Fae, the great way the sparks between Sela and Kovian fly and you have a very interesting story that will come to completion with the sequel.
December 26, 2021
Social Stratas, Forbidden Love, and Family
To some, Seelies with their angelic looks and fabulous bodies are at the top. Next are the monstrous Unseelies because they are still fae, and wield power. At the bottom, are those Johnny-come-lately humans.
Sela, an 18-year-old Seelie, is sent to spy on a human family that is said to be plotting against the fae. Glamoured to take human shape, Sela is hired to tutor the eldest boy, Kovian (also 18), whose life mysteriously changed the year prior.
Kovian and his family accept Sela as one of their own, inviting her to birthday gatherings, family dinners, etc. However, they are working to liberate humans from the “helpful” fae.
There is an instant attraction between Sela and Kovian that they are determined to resist. And Sela becomes even more isolated as she tries to figure out who around her is telling the truth.
Lots of twists, turns, and biases explored in this well-written tale where you root for the two main characters to triumph.
To some, Seelies with their angelic looks and fabulous bodies are at the top. Next are the monstrous Unseelies because they are still fae, and wield power. At the bottom, are those Johnny-come-lately humans.
Sela, an 18-year-old Seelie, is sent to spy on a human family that is said to be plotting against the fae. Glamoured to take human shape, Sela is hired to tutor the eldest boy, Kovian (also 18), whose life mysteriously changed the year prior.
Kovian and his family accept Sela as one of their own, inviting her to birthday gatherings, family dinners, etc. However, they are working to liberate humans from the “helpful” fae.
There is an instant attraction between Sela and Kovian that they are determined to resist. And Sela becomes even more isolated as she tries to figure out who around her is telling the truth.
Lots of twists, turns, and biases explored in this well-written tale where you root for the two main characters to triumph.
November 6, 2023
Faerie Fallen is a gorgeous hardback that has been on my TBR for too long. Anderson is a phenomenal and inventive author who always delivers original and engaging stories. The story is fleshed out well, character development is seamless, and world building was expertly executed. My only major gripe is that it felt a little too long. While this book was great, The Frost Eater is still my favorite book by this author. Now I need to know what happens next!
I listened to the audio and my thoughts on the audio version do not impact my rating of the book > The author narrates her own work. Her voice is melodic, soothing and well paced. Is there anything Anderson can't do? She's a triple threat (at least): phenomenal author, expert narrator, and an all-around great person.
If you like making new book friends, playing games, and reading reviews, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh (Book Club)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/12086...
I listened to the audio and my thoughts on the audio version do not impact my rating of the book > The author narrates her own work. Her voice is melodic, soothing and well paced. Is there anything Anderson can't do? She's a triple threat (at least): phenomenal author, expert narrator, and an all-around great person.
If you like making new book friends, playing games, and reading reviews, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh (Book Club)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/12086...
November 12, 2021
An interesting tale about fairies and humans that came from Earth to a new world and a new life. Trying to keep humans from destroying another planet, the two fairy kingdoms are trying to implement rules that some humans find constrictive. The family that this story revolves around is attempting to fight these rules, but are infiltrated by the fairies. Posing as a tutor, the main fairy character attempts to spy for the fairy kingdoms and ends up falling in love with her student. This causes all kinds of mayhem, but maybe it's the solution to everything. I truly enjoyed this tale and am looking forward to more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2021
I enjoyed this story. The author did a good job of keeping the story interesting; I didn’t want to stop reading until I finished. Even now, I want to know what happened next.
The main character, Sela, has good intentions for a fae. In this story, humans have relocated to a fae world where they are all aware of each other and interact to some extent. Sela enjoys pretending to be human and spending time alone with them. There’s a lot of content related to lust, but it’s clean (not descriptive or vulgar). She ends up pretending to tutor a boy in order to spy in search for information on some humans who want to hurt the fae. There are two factions of fae and humans living in the same world and there is mistrust and enmity between them all.
There is profanity in this book. That and the lust content keep me from recommending this to my wife or kids. Not sure who I would recommend it to. The lust was a real turn off. I gave it five stars because the author wrote a great story. Hope she drops the sex talk as she continues writing.
The main character, Sela, has good intentions for a fae. In this story, humans have relocated to a fae world where they are all aware of each other and interact to some extent. Sela enjoys pretending to be human and spending time alone with them. There’s a lot of content related to lust, but it’s clean (not descriptive or vulgar). She ends up pretending to tutor a boy in order to spy in search for information on some humans who want to hurt the fae. There are two factions of fae and humans living in the same world and there is mistrust and enmity between them all.
There is profanity in this book. That and the lust content keep me from recommending this to my wife or kids. Not sure who I would recommend it to. The lust was a real turn off. I gave it five stars because the author wrote a great story. Hope she drops the sex talk as she continues writing.
December 11, 2021
Carol Beth Anderson has written a dark fantasy romance and it was fascinating. The author developed an interesting world that was populated by faeries and humans. She interweaved a magical tale describing the two races and their chaotic interactions. Some of the humans wanted to overthrow the Fae, so Fae rulers decided to send a spy among the humans. The plot took some surprising turns. The characters were relatable. I enjoyed this tale, but the story does have some foul language and some violence. Carol Beth Anderson's narration was great, and she added to the depth of her characters by providing unique voices for them, which added to the story's entertainment. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily left this review.
December 15, 2021
This is an incredible read that was so engrossing I just couldn't put it down! The world building is so good that you are drawn in and immediately feel as though you are there and the storyline is entertaining and full of mystery, intrigue, betrayal and love. The characters are relatable, strong and realistic and the storyline full of twists and turns, hate and fear. Yes there are a few triggers so check those out before reading this but overall I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more.
November 16, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. I am not usually a fan of fae novels but this one had so many plot twists that I couldn't put it down. The story was so well written, you felt like you were there in the story with the characters; I felt a bit put out that it ended with a cliffhanger though. I definitely recommend this book and I can't wait to find out what happens next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am leaving an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am leaving an honest review.
November 12, 2021
Easy to read book with interesting characters- nice evolution of storyline with young seelie woman enjoying her life in the human world but then is forced to spy for the seelie court.
Looking forward to book 2
Looking forward to book 2
November 13, 2021
Great story well written. This was a great book fast paced with lots of twists and turns along the way I loved it and looking forward to the next one in this series
November 17, 2021
Such an interesting faerie story. This book has wonderful characters and a well-developed storyline along with a unique concept on the world of faerie. It was an interesting read.
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