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Stolen Brides of the Fae #7
Stolen Thorn Bride
Can a stubborn farm girl steal the heart of an elf king who has sworn never to love again?
After a century of war, the elves of Abreia are losing hope. Their greatest defender—Dechlan, king of the Northwatch—lies near death, and only a soul bond with a human bride can save him. The problem? No humans have set foot on elven lands for over a hundred years.
Kasia is no stranger to the fight for survival—she’s spent her life in the far northern reaches of Garimore, struggling to provide for her three siblings. When she’s captured by a trio of beautiful but terrifying elven warriors, her only thought is to return home, until they inform her she must marry their king… or be put to death.
Both Kasia and Dechlan are reluctant to accept their unwanted bond, until the elves’ ancient enemy rises up to threaten both their worlds. Kasia might just be the key to ending the war, but only if she is willing to sacrifice the life she’s always known.
And only if Dechlan is willing to risk losing the bride he never expected, but is no longer certain he can live without.
Stolen Thorn Bride is the seventh book in Stolen Brides of the Fae, a collection of short novels by eight of your favorite fantasy romance authors. Start reading today for swoon-worthy romance, heart-stopping adventure, and guaranteed happily-ever-afters!
After a century of war, the elves of Abreia are losing hope. Their greatest defender—Dechlan, king of the Northwatch—lies near death, and only a soul bond with a human bride can save him. The problem? No humans have set foot on elven lands for over a hundred years.
Kasia is no stranger to the fight for survival—she’s spent her life in the far northern reaches of Garimore, struggling to provide for her three siblings. When she’s captured by a trio of beautiful but terrifying elven warriors, her only thought is to return home, until they inform her she must marry their king… or be put to death.
Both Kasia and Dechlan are reluctant to accept their unwanted bond, until the elves’ ancient enemy rises up to threaten both their worlds. Kasia might just be the key to ending the war, but only if she is willing to sacrifice the life she’s always known.
And only if Dechlan is willing to risk losing the bride he never expected, but is no longer certain he can live without.
Stolen Thorn Bride is the seventh book in Stolen Brides of the Fae, a collection of short novels by eight of your favorite fantasy romance authors. Start reading today for swoon-worthy romance, heart-stopping adventure, and guaranteed happily-ever-afters!
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2021
78 people are currently reading
1389 people want to read
About the author
Kenley Davidson
35 books939 followersKenley Davidson is a romantic fantasy author and unrepentant caffeine addict who believes in the power of storytelling and loves nothing more than a good book hangover. Her books include romantasy, urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and sci fi, but no matter the genre, she writes stories of hope and redemption with characters you can root for, heart-pounding romance without the spice, and happy endings that might just make you cry.
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
March 7, 2023
Re-read
I've been in a slight reading slump and didn't know what I was in the mood for, so was struggling to decide what to read next. A new book that might let me down? A re-read that always comes with the fear it won't be as good as it is in my memory? I eventually settled on re-reading this novella.
And just like the first time I read it, I devoured it, finishing it in a matter of hours (look, we are going to count finishing it at 12:20am as an improvement in my sleeping and reading habits, okay? 😆). It was just as good the second time around, and I think I might love Kasia (and swoony Dechlan) even more. I'm so glad I got this in paperback while it was still available. (You can get the ebook, retitled [more fittingly] Of Promises and Thorns, in Kenley Davidson's newsletter. It's so worth it!)
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Original review:
Such a good romance
Oh my word. I absolutely adored this book. I started it around midnight because I was having trouble sleeping, and thought I'd read a chapter or two and then probably be ready to sleep. Instead I got sucked in and kept reading even though I could no longer find a comfortable position and my eyes were strained and heavy. I'm writing this review at 3:25am, having just finished (and having decided I must check out more of Davidson's work). There are SO many beautiful moments and truths in this, and so much raw emotion and depth. The emotional struggles of the characters were so well handled. Both Dechlan and Kasia have amazing growth arcs in such a short book. It doesn't hurt that Dechlan is my favorite type--tall, handsome, dangerous, weary, tortured hero with fierce morals and a good but battered heart. I'm weak. Some frustration for the "this would be solved if you'd just TALK to each other and BE HONEST" but at least with somewhat decent reasons and since it's a novella, it didn't drag on too long. And the resolution was just so delicious. My biggest complaint would be that it ended and has an open ending, where some background things are not fully resolved, but it ends so hopefully and the rest was so good I'm okay with that.
Adding the following morning when I'm a tiny bit more awake: also the worldbuilding is really strong and interesting with some cool details. The plot is solid. And I appreciated that while both Dechlan and Kasia struggled with the weight and sometimes hopelessness of their responsibilities, neither resented their charges--Dechlan deeply loves his people and Kasia deeply loves her siblings, and the tension of wanting to shoulder their responsibilities and being weary and wanting some peace and freedom was handled in a way that ever made either character feel selfish, just human. Or, well, elf. 😆 I'll likely be rereading this one in the future.
I've been in a slight reading slump and didn't know what I was in the mood for, so was struggling to decide what to read next. A new book that might let me down? A re-read that always comes with the fear it won't be as good as it is in my memory? I eventually settled on re-reading this novella.
And just like the first time I read it, I devoured it, finishing it in a matter of hours (look, we are going to count finishing it at 12:20am as an improvement in my sleeping and reading habits, okay? 😆). It was just as good the second time around, and I think I might love Kasia (and swoony Dechlan) even more. I'm so glad I got this in paperback while it was still available. (You can get the ebook, retitled [more fittingly] Of Promises and Thorns, in Kenley Davidson's newsletter. It's so worth it!)
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Original review:
Such a good romance
Oh my word. I absolutely adored this book. I started it around midnight because I was having trouble sleeping, and thought I'd read a chapter or two and then probably be ready to sleep. Instead I got sucked in and kept reading even though I could no longer find a comfortable position and my eyes were strained and heavy. I'm writing this review at 3:25am, having just finished (and having decided I must check out more of Davidson's work). There are SO many beautiful moments and truths in this, and so much raw emotion and depth. The emotional struggles of the characters were so well handled. Both Dechlan and Kasia have amazing growth arcs in such a short book. It doesn't hurt that Dechlan is my favorite type--tall, handsome, dangerous, weary, tortured hero with fierce morals and a good but battered heart. I'm weak. Some frustration for the "this would be solved if you'd just TALK to each other and BE HONEST" but at least with somewhat decent reasons and since it's a novella, it didn't drag on too long. And the resolution was just so delicious. My biggest complaint would be that it ended and has an open ending, where some background things are not fully resolved, but it ends so hopefully and the rest was so good I'm okay with that.
Adding the following morning when I'm a tiny bit more awake: also the worldbuilding is really strong and interesting with some cool details. The plot is solid. And I appreciated that while both Dechlan and Kasia struggled with the weight and sometimes hopelessness of their responsibilities, neither resented their charges--Dechlan deeply loves his people and Kasia deeply loves her siblings, and the tension of wanting to shoulder their responsibilities and being weary and wanting some peace and freedom was handled in a way that ever made either character feel selfish, just human. Or, well, elf. 😆 I'll likely be rereading this one in the future.
June 18, 2021
This is only the second Stolen Brides book I’ve read, but so far I’m enjoying them immensely. 🥰
Read
August 15, 2021Utterly wholesome and delightful and my favourite Kenley Davidson story yet.
July 6, 2021
Ahh!!!! This book is so GOOD! If you love romantic fantasy featuring elves and arranged marriages, then you'll WANT to pick up this book ASAP!
The author packs so much into this book! There is danger and intrigue and one annoyed pigkeeper who finds herself stolen away from her home. Yet, she isn't about to roll over and let others use her as a pawn.
It also features an elf lord who is suitably and rightfully angry with what was done to save him.
Yet, the romance that these two manage to build is beautiful and realistically drawn. I couldn't put this book down!
This book is also squeaky clean, for those who are concerned about that.
The author packs so much into this book! There is danger and intrigue and one annoyed pigkeeper who finds herself stolen away from her home. Yet, she isn't about to roll over and let others use her as a pawn.
It also features an elf lord who is suitably and rightfully angry with what was done to save him.
Yet, the romance that these two manage to build is beautiful and realistically drawn. I couldn't put this book down!
This book is also squeaky clean, for those who are concerned about that.
July 22, 2021
This book was so fun! A clean marriage of convenience is always fun to find, and that’s what this story is! With humor, heart, and excitement, my only complaint is that it ended rather abruptly. I would have loved an epilogue showing the characters with the happily ever after they fought so hard for.
•
Overall, I do recommend this book!
Five stars!
Ages 16 & up
•
Overall, I do recommend this book!
Five stars!
Ages 16 & up
June 21, 2021
Oh, a very nice entry.
I haven't read the main series this book's world comes from, but suffice to say I didn't need it to understand what was going on. I also very much liked the plot and the world, and thought that the romance and pacing was well constructed (especially for a novella). My only gripe is that there were a pot of side characters that were just so...interesting. But the story belonged to the mcs, and both were likeable and I enjoyed how the kidnapped bride trope was handled here.
Content: Some physical attraction stuff but remains clean. Nothing deeper than kissing and marriage things are discussed but, again, nothing questionable. Some violence but not too gruesome.
I haven't read the main series this book's world comes from, but suffice to say I didn't need it to understand what was going on. I also very much liked the plot and the world, and thought that the romance and pacing was well constructed (especially for a novella). My only gripe is that there were a pot of side characters that were just so...interesting. But the story belonged to the mcs, and both were likeable and I enjoyed how the kidnapped bride trope was handled here.
Content: Some physical attraction stuff but remains clean. Nothing deeper than kissing and marriage things are discussed but, again, nothing questionable. Some violence but not too gruesome.
September 29, 2021
This might be the only fantasy short novel that stole me from first word to last pull stop. 😁
Yes, I totally enjoyed reading this novella.. it just captured me as captive totally.. it's so so good.. my only concern was it was over.. I just wanted to keep reading about them both .
Actually I read this a month back but I'm just now writing my review and I can still feel all the feels this book gave me 🥰
I loved both the main characters here..Kasai was vulnerable and strong, she's stubborn hearted when It comes to wellbeing of ppl she cares..she loves completely and drains herself in caring for them though she's never cared for!
She hides her magic from her community as they think it's curse..but it's a power she'll never get to marry as no human wants to marry such a women
Yet, through uneventful unexpected events now she's soul - bound to an Elve king Dechlan
Oh my gosh!! I feel like drooling thinking ABT him and all those swoony moments...
He had sworn off love & is known to be one of the mightiest and Strong king in the elves world...the way they both got to know each other and care for eachother felt wonderful
💫I loved the setting of this book and the world of Elves and human's connection..it felt connectable
💫 Enimies to lovers + Marriage of Convince == GOLD IN A BOOK 😁
💫 Amazing side characters and there's a truth depth to the story rather than fluff
💫 Sassy and stubborn heroine , strong & tender Hero
💫 The ending is absolutely delightful 😊
Content: Clean romance yet totally Swonny 😉
Yes, I totally enjoyed reading this novella.. it just captured me as captive totally.. it's so so good.. my only concern was it was over.. I just wanted to keep reading about them both .
Actually I read this a month back but I'm just now writing my review and I can still feel all the feels this book gave me 🥰
I loved both the main characters here..Kasai was vulnerable and strong, she's stubborn hearted when It comes to wellbeing of ppl she cares..she loves completely and drains herself in caring for them though she's never cared for!
She hides her magic from her community as they think it's curse..but it's a power she'll never get to marry as no human wants to marry such a women
Yet, through uneventful unexpected events now she's soul - bound to an Elve king Dechlan
Oh my gosh!! I feel like drooling thinking ABT him and all those swoony moments...
He had sworn off love & is known to be one of the mightiest and Strong king in the elves world...the way they both got to know each other and care for eachother felt wonderful
💫I loved the setting of this book and the world of Elves and human's connection..it felt connectable
💫 Enimies to lovers + Marriage of Convince == GOLD IN A BOOK 😁
💫 Amazing side characters and there's a truth depth to the story rather than fluff
💫 Sassy and stubborn heroine , strong & tender Hero
💫 The ending is absolutely delightful 😊
Content: Clean romance yet totally Swonny 😉
July 1, 2021
Wooahhh!!! I'm having a hard time trying to find the right words to describe how I feel. This book is pure perfection! I started it last night and didn't want to put it down. By 2 a.m I had completed 70% of the book and my eyes had started burning like I'd poured hot sauce in them, so I had to put it away.
I loved everything about this book, from the characters to the storyline, the world-building and the descriptions. I was completely sucked into the world and it felt like I was the one experiencing the emotions in Kasia's place. I liked how she went from thinking of herself as cursed to embracing her magic, and Dechlan played a major role in helping her realise that. Love supportive male leads!
The book was fast-paced, but not rushed which is how I like my stories. I wish the book hadn't ended. I would have loved to see more of how they would deal with the wraith attacks and how Kasia's family would react knowing the truth about her.
I've read the Legends of Abreia series by the author, so I had high expectations for this one and it definitely did not disappoint. I recommend it to all fantasy romance lovers.
I loved everything about this book, from the characters to the storyline, the world-building and the descriptions. I was completely sucked into the world and it felt like I was the one experiencing the emotions in Kasia's place. I liked how she went from thinking of herself as cursed to embracing her magic, and Dechlan played a major role in helping her realise that. Love supportive male leads!
The book was fast-paced, but not rushed which is how I like my stories. I wish the book hadn't ended. I would have loved to see more of how they would deal with the wraith attacks and how Kasia's family would react knowing the truth about her.
I've read the Legends of Abreia series by the author, so I had high expectations for this one and it definitely did not disappoint. I recommend it to all fantasy romance lovers.
August 15, 2022
Oomph. Finally finished this book after owning it since its release over a year ago. ^_^ Davidson's writing is very comfortable and relaxing while staying elegant and formal (but not too formal, if you know what I mean). The story is well done and paced, the characters excellent. I especially love how these two are so caring about one another without letting the other know xD, it's all very adorable and proper.
January 31, 2022
Sneaky Sneaky Elves
A lovely tale of a pig keeper and her elf. XD Tragedy, humor, hope, love.. what more could you ask for in a novel!? <3 <3 <3
Is this the same world as The Faceless Mage series?? O.O I'm curious to know if we'll have any more books based in this part of the world in the future? *puppydog eyes*
**a friendly little reminder that one should always read the fine print before agreeing to bond to a half dead elf** ;P
A lovely tale of a pig keeper and her elf. XD Tragedy, humor, hope, love.. what more could you ask for in a novel!? <3 <3 <3
Is this the same world as The Faceless Mage series?? O.O I'm curious to know if we'll have any more books based in this part of the world in the future? *puppydog eyes*
**a friendly little reminder that one should always read the fine print before agreeing to bond to a half dead elf** ;P
May 9, 2022
So good- but I wanted more!
I really enjoyed this book- it’s set in the same world as the Abreia series this author writes (which I also love). It was such a great story, and I loved how Kasia grows throughout it. She is selfless, sacrificing so much for those she loves, and then unbelievably thrust into a new world and all alone.
Declan was such a good character- hurt through a century long battle with darkness and creatures that were relentless, yet still trying to stand strong in the face of hopelessness. I loved these two, and the suspense and danger the wraiths added to the story. Honestly though, I was so sad when it ended cause I just wanted MORE. Still such a good book though, I hope the author writes more in this world!
I really enjoyed this book- it’s set in the same world as the Abreia series this author writes (which I also love). It was such a great story, and I loved how Kasia grows throughout it. She is selfless, sacrificing so much for those she loves, and then unbelievably thrust into a new world and all alone.
Declan was such a good character- hurt through a century long battle with darkness and creatures that were relentless, yet still trying to stand strong in the face of hopelessness. I loved these two, and the suspense and danger the wraiths added to the story. Honestly though, I was so sad when it ended cause I just wanted MORE. Still such a good book though, I hope the author writes more in this world!
June 19, 2021
2.75 stars.
This was a solid novella. There was pretty good character development and the plot was interesting. I didn't like the whole , but that's just personal preference. It wasn't referenced overly much nor drawn out with annoying angst, so I could hand wave it away. I couldn't remember if any of the characters were mentioned in the Elves of Abreia series, but this would be read as a stand alone. very cute.
This was a solid novella. There was pretty good character development and the plot was interesting. I didn't like the whole , but that's just personal preference. It wasn't referenced overly much nor drawn out with annoying angst, so I could hand wave it away. I couldn't remember if any of the characters were mentioned in the Elves of Abreia series, but this would be read as a stand alone. very cute.
February 17, 2022
4.5 stars…Kenley Davidson knows how to grab her reader’s attention. The opening sentence always draws me into her stories and the anticipation she continues to build on keeps me hooked.
I really loved this one. Dechlan and Kasia were sweet, loveable characters. Their relationship had a rough start but I loved how it progressed. I wish there was an epilogue but all in all I adored this story.
Content: Squeaky clean, Kissing, Mild violence
I really loved this one. Dechlan and Kasia were sweet, loveable characters. Their relationship had a rough start but I loved how it progressed. I wish there was an epilogue but all in all I adored this story.
Content: Squeaky clean, Kissing, Mild violence
Want to read
May 29, 2021All the covers in this series are gorgeous! Love Dominique's work <3
August 14, 2021
Kenley Davidson is an author I just discovered and has written several things I've enjoyed. This a fairy romance with a lot of focus on the romance and some heat in it, more emphasis on the romance than I prefer. Dechlan and Kasia come from different sides of the "tracks", but I really enjoyed the jokes about Kasia's humble upbringing and the elves' superiorities.
September 12, 2021
5 stars
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the sort of book you squeal at. In the bus. Yes, it was embarrassing, but I don't care.
Stolen Thorn Bride takes place in the world of Abreia, in a completely different corner than The Faceless Mage, but more or less simultaneously. If you loved Kenley Davidson's first books in Abreia, you will love this one.
As you've probably seen from my review on The Faceless Mage, I've become a die-hard fan of Kenley Davidson'selves Legends of Abreia series. Not only were the first books squeaky-clean, they contained everything I love in Fantasy Romance: adventure, ELVES (*ehem*), plot twists and a dash of romance.
The characters:
I don't know how Kenley did it, but she managed to give depth and feeling to both Dechlan and Kasia in the matter of 150-ish pages. Talk about amazing....
I can picture them so vividly in my mind it's crazy.
Kenley portrays elves in a way that reminds me a lot of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, it's really beautiful and nostalgic.
Worldbuilding:
Not much worldbuilding was added to what I knew of Abreia, but since it's a novella, it makes sense. There were still many descriptions though, and they were beautiful.
Plot:
As usual, Kenley's intrigues are flawless. There are enough of them to keep you reading eagerly, but not too many to make you put the book down exhausted. I won't say anything more about it, but know I would have read it in one sitting if I could have.
Content:
The content was clean. Violence-wise, nothing was describes, just alluded at, and there was no gore. Romance-wise, I felt that the content was a little heavier and I would use the word "simmering" to describe it, although there was no sexual content whatsoever. I think there was a bit more romance than in the previous Legends of Abreia installments.
Overall, this was an awesome read and I am stoked to have been able to read an early copy of this gem!
Trust me guys, this is one book you will want on your shelf.
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the sort of book you squeal at. In the bus. Yes, it was embarrassing, but I don't care.
Stolen Thorn Bride takes place in the world of Abreia, in a completely different corner than The Faceless Mage, but more or less simultaneously. If you loved Kenley Davidson's first books in Abreia, you will love this one.
As you've probably seen from my review on The Faceless Mage, I've become a die-hard fan of Kenley Davidson's
The characters:
I don't know how Kenley did it, but she managed to give depth and feeling to both Dechlan and Kasia in the matter of 150-ish pages. Talk about amazing....
I can picture them so vividly in my mind it's crazy.
Kenley portrays elves in a way that reminds me a lot of Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, it's really beautiful and nostalgic.
Worldbuilding:
Not much worldbuilding was added to what I knew of Abreia, but since it's a novella, it makes sense. There were still many descriptions though, and they were beautiful.
Plot:
As usual, Kenley's intrigues are flawless. There are enough of them to keep you reading eagerly, but not too many to make you put the book down exhausted. I won't say anything more about it, but know I would have read it in one sitting if I could have.
Content:
The content was clean. Violence-wise, nothing was describes, just alluded at, and there was no gore. Romance-wise, I felt that the content was a little heavier and I would use the word "simmering" to describe it, although there was no sexual content whatsoever. I think there was a bit more romance than in the previous Legends of Abreia installments.
Overall, this was an awesome read and I am stoked to have been able to read an early copy of this gem!
Trust me guys, this is one book you will want on your shelf.
June 22, 2021
I immediately had to go text my bookish friend once I finished this book, and while I was reading it I kept exclaiming to my husband, "OHMYGOODNESS I LOVE THIS!!"
I thought the stolen bride dynamic was handled perfectly (sometimes it just doesn't land right). And like, whoever thought a dying elf king would be so hot? The romance was perfection, and it was totally clean while still having the perfect balance of "awwws" and blushes.
I thought the stolen bride dynamic was handled perfectly (sometimes it just doesn't land right). And like, whoever thought a dying elf king would be so hot? The romance was perfection, and it was totally clean while still having the perfect balance of "awwws" and blushes.
January 3, 2023
I love Kasia so much. She’s amazing. She’s so tough, smart, and spunky. Kasia knows who she is and doesn’t apologize for not being someone she’s not.
I’ll admit I wasn’t sure about this book at first which I why it took me so long to get around to it, but I have no regrets. Declain and Kasia’s dynamic is so interesting and watching them communicate and slowly understand each other was such a worthwhile read.
I’ll admit I wasn’t sure about this book at first which I why it took me so long to get around to it, but I have no regrets. Declain and Kasia’s dynamic is so interesting and watching them communicate and slowly understand each other was such a worthwhile read.
August 6, 2021
I loved this book. It was probably the best and my favorite storyline. Yes, it has a full on storyline no bedroom scenes and no swearing. It was awesome! I love strong storylines and well defined characters to make a great story. Strong sense of devotion and inner strength. They needed better communication but it made for a great book. Loved it!
June 20, 2021
An enjoyable fantasy romance.
This is the first novel by this author that I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I really enjoyed the classic swords and horses fantasy flavor to this romance. The world building was really vivid, with the Elven lands and the oppressive menace of the wraith armies really coming to life. I also loved the heroine and how prickly she was. She was totally uninterested in making life for her Elven kidnappers any easier than it had to be. 😉 The hero was sweet and honorable, and the chemistry between the two of them was actually pretty good, considering the low heat level of this romance. It was of the “they kiss at the end” variety. Typically, I prefer more of a four to five chili pepper read, but I really enjoyed this one regardless of the low heat level. I loved the use of the Mating Bond trope in this romance. What if you had an unbreakable, super intimate mating bond with a total stranger that you were coerced into? Cue delicious interpersonal conflict. I am now off to check out this author’s backlist! I am happy I stumbled across this book.
This is the first novel by this author that I have read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I really enjoyed the classic swords and horses fantasy flavor to this romance. The world building was really vivid, with the Elven lands and the oppressive menace of the wraith armies really coming to life. I also loved the heroine and how prickly she was. She was totally uninterested in making life for her Elven kidnappers any easier than it had to be. 😉 The hero was sweet and honorable, and the chemistry between the two of them was actually pretty good, considering the low heat level of this romance. It was of the “they kiss at the end” variety. Typically, I prefer more of a four to five chili pepper read, but I really enjoyed this one regardless of the low heat level. I loved the use of the Mating Bond trope in this romance. What if you had an unbreakable, super intimate mating bond with a total stranger that you were coerced into? Cue delicious interpersonal conflict. I am now off to check out this author’s backlist! I am happy I stumbled across this book.
April 12, 2022
Y'all. It's been a little while since a book has completely swept me off my feet. From start to finished I was committed to this story.
I absolutely adored Kasia! She's feisty, sassy, and doesn't take crap from anyone. But she's also the sweetest person ever. Dechlan was the perfect, broken and stubborn hero. But he's a fierce protector and will give his life to protect his people. If ever two people were perfect for each other, it would be these two. They got off to a bit of a rocky start, but the more they got to know each other and opened up to each other, the closer they became.
I loved the pacing of this book. It was believable and kept me on my toes. I didn't realize that their first kiss wasn't until the very end of the book. It was just that good!
So if I loved it then why only 4 stars? Because the book just ended. Y'all. I. Seriously. Hate. That! It's the absolute worst! I needed to see more of Kasia and Dechlan as an actual couple. We only get like a page of it before the book just ends. There were a lot of what if's at the end and for me it was just a HFN. An epilogue would've completed the book in my opinion.
I absolutely adored Kasia! She's feisty, sassy, and doesn't take crap from anyone. But she's also the sweetest person ever. Dechlan was the perfect, broken and stubborn hero. But he's a fierce protector and will give his life to protect his people. If ever two people were perfect for each other, it would be these two. They got off to a bit of a rocky start, but the more they got to know each other and opened up to each other, the closer they became.
I loved the pacing of this book. It was believable and kept me on my toes. I didn't realize that their first kiss wasn't until the very end of the book. It was just that good!
So if I loved it then why only 4 stars? Because the book just ended. Y'all. I. Seriously. Hate. That! It's the absolute worst! I needed to see more of Kasia and Dechlan as an actual couple. We only get like a page of it before the book just ends. There were a lot of what if's at the end and for me it was just a HFN. An epilogue would've completed the book in my opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2021
I was so excited when I heard about this series, though Thorn Bride was the first whose plot really intrigued me, and I was not disappointed.
For a shorter novel the world building is well done and though there is enough angst to appease most readers, the blunt honesty of the characters helps speed up the plot as well as add to the feeling of maturity in both MCs.
Definitely worth a read for fans of Fae and arranged marriage romance
For a shorter novel the world building is well done and though there is enough angst to appease most readers, the blunt honesty of the characters helps speed up the plot as well as add to the feeling of maturity in both MCs.
Definitely worth a read for fans of Fae and arranged marriage romance
April 11, 2022
After the emotional journey of rage and despair that was Threadwitch Bride, I was ready for the worst, and was pleasantly surprised. It may have colored my perception of this book, but let’s get on with it, shall we?
This book has similar elements to previous Stolen Bride books: Kasia is a farmer-adjacent peasant girl who needs to take care of young siblings, she’s plucky and spunky and blonde, and she also has secret hidden magic that she wants to suppress. Meanwhile, Dechlan is not a fae, he’s very specifically an elf (the fae exist in this world and are mentioned as separate entities), and he’s not the elf king, but rather an elf king, as there are several lesser kingdoms under one, even fancier king, who’s actually in charge of the kidnapping. Meaning the hero doesn’t even do the stealing this time, but that’s in the blurb at least.
So it’s a plucky human farm girl and a broody elf king. Sounds pretty generic, right? And it is! But this book is an example for why I defend clichés and tropes: when they’re done well, they’re fun and good!
Kasia is honestly a delight. Meg from Midsummer Bride wishes she was Kasia, and while I can’t exactly pinpoint why they’re different to me, I think it’s narrative agency. Meg was plucky but went with the flow, Kasia takes control of the plot and affects it directly. Even though she is lured into the elf lands, she doesn’t let herself be pushed around, and I was actually surprised and impressed with how she bossed the elves around despite thinking she had no power.
Like, there’s something very compelling about a female character who, despite thinking she’s powerless and below all these pretty and prim elves, still doesn’t let herself be mistreated. In fact, she even purposefully provokes and gets on their nerves at several points. You can easily see why Dechlan fell in love with her, because she verbally bitchslaps people into obedience and we love to see it! She also doesn’t get a billion descriptions of how ugly but gorgeous she is, and she canonically is physically strong and has actual muscles from all the manual labor she does. I also loved how honest she was? While there was the obligatory third act misunderstanding/miscommunication, I was genuinely surprised when she straight up told Dechlan that she didn’t want to involve herself with him because she might fall in love with him, and she didn’t want to do so because then she’d be in the shadow of his lost lover, and if she were to love him she’d want all of his heart for herself. Like, that’s genuinely a baller move, and she says it so simply and it just hits, ya know?
Dechlan himself is just a depressed bastard. He comes off as cranky and sad, and though he’s not as fun to read as Kasia, I’m okay with him being a support character to her journey. While he does get his own little arc of letting go his first love, it’s not suuuuper impactful and could’ve used more time. I was honestly pleased there wasn’t as much emphasis on their physical differences and how strong and sexy and domineering Dechlan is, because he just wasn’t. He’s kind of a sick sad sack for the most time, which was refreshing. Like yes he was still hot, because this is a romance novel, but there weren’t uncomfortable Disney levels of sexual dimorphism going on and no weird implied sexual dynamics with “claiming” and all that shit. (Also yes, a few of the other books in the series are indeed guilty of this, despite being “clean.” I guess nothing’s so clean that we can’t sneak in some ill-fitting fetish stuff in right?)
There’s also the – at this point obligatory – animal sidekick, Aral, who’s a big ol’ spooky doggo. And for once I actually quite enjoyed the sidekick, he wasn’t overly peppy or cute and Kasia had a genuine connection with him that felt real. It didn’t feel like something that was shoved in there for the sake of it, the wolf felt like a natural part of the world that Kasia just bonded with.
See? You can do simple things and clichés well! And no that's not a backhanded compliment, I'm fully serious and genuinely believe this. Tropes and common story beats exist for a reason, and if you're a skilled enough writer you can make them work.
The main flaw of the book is probably the length, again. I would’ve loved to see more of these leads and give them more time to develop. The falling in love itself was pretty quick, but I enjoyed them together and it felt realistic that they’d fall in love eventually, Kasia kicks too much ass to not get a hot elf husband, so I wasn’t super miffed about the speed of it.
At first I also thought the ending was a bit of a copout, but after giving it some thought I think it worked just for how bittersweet it was and it made enough sense that I accepted it and came away from the book feeling satisfied and happy that I read it.
So yeah! This one is an easy four stars. It’s not groundbreaking, but it has a genuinely fun and active heroine, an appropriately brooding hero, a fun doggo sidekick and a cute soulmate love story with a magic-y backdrop. If you’re into this sort of thing, this could be an easy breezy afternoon read!
I still don’t know what the thorn in Thorn Bride refers to, though. I guess the Hedge dividing the human lands from the elf ones? Idk.
This book has similar elements to previous Stolen Bride books: Kasia is a farmer-adjacent peasant girl who needs to take care of young siblings, she’s plucky and spunky and blonde, and she also has secret hidden magic that she wants to suppress. Meanwhile, Dechlan is not a fae, he’s very specifically an elf (the fae exist in this world and are mentioned as separate entities), and he’s not the elf king, but rather an elf king, as there are several lesser kingdoms under one, even fancier king, who’s actually in charge of the kidnapping. Meaning the hero doesn’t even do the stealing this time, but that’s in the blurb at least.
So it’s a plucky human farm girl and a broody elf king. Sounds pretty generic, right? And it is! But this book is an example for why I defend clichés and tropes: when they’re done well, they’re fun and good!
Kasia is honestly a delight. Meg from Midsummer Bride wishes she was Kasia, and while I can’t exactly pinpoint why they’re different to me, I think it’s narrative agency. Meg was plucky but went with the flow, Kasia takes control of the plot and affects it directly. Even though she is lured into the elf lands, she doesn’t let herself be pushed around, and I was actually surprised and impressed with how she bossed the elves around despite thinking she had no power.
Like, there’s something very compelling about a female character who, despite thinking she’s powerless and below all these pretty and prim elves, still doesn’t let herself be mistreated. In fact, she even purposefully provokes and gets on their nerves at several points. You can easily see why Dechlan fell in love with her, because she verbally bitchslaps people into obedience and we love to see it! She also doesn’t get a billion descriptions of how ugly but gorgeous she is, and she canonically is physically strong and has actual muscles from all the manual labor she does. I also loved how honest she was? While there was the obligatory third act misunderstanding/miscommunication, I was genuinely surprised when she straight up told Dechlan that she didn’t want to involve herself with him because she might fall in love with him, and she didn’t want to do so because then she’d be in the shadow of his lost lover, and if she were to love him she’d want all of his heart for herself. Like, that’s genuinely a baller move, and she says it so simply and it just hits, ya know?
Dechlan himself is just a depressed bastard. He comes off as cranky and sad, and though he’s not as fun to read as Kasia, I’m okay with him being a support character to her journey. While he does get his own little arc of letting go his first love, it’s not suuuuper impactful and could’ve used more time. I was honestly pleased there wasn’t as much emphasis on their physical differences and how strong and sexy and domineering Dechlan is, because he just wasn’t. He’s kind of a sick sad sack for the most time, which was refreshing. Like yes he was still hot, because this is a romance novel, but there weren’t uncomfortable Disney levels of sexual dimorphism going on and no weird implied sexual dynamics with “claiming” and all that shit. (Also yes, a few of the other books in the series are indeed guilty of this, despite being “clean.” I guess nothing’s so clean that we can’t sneak in some ill-fitting fetish stuff in right?)
There’s also the – at this point obligatory – animal sidekick, Aral, who’s a big ol’ spooky doggo. And for once I actually quite enjoyed the sidekick, he wasn’t overly peppy or cute and Kasia had a genuine connection with him that felt real. It didn’t feel like something that was shoved in there for the sake of it, the wolf felt like a natural part of the world that Kasia just bonded with.
See? You can do simple things and clichés well! And no that's not a backhanded compliment, I'm fully serious and genuinely believe this. Tropes and common story beats exist for a reason, and if you're a skilled enough writer you can make them work.
The main flaw of the book is probably the length, again. I would’ve loved to see more of these leads and give them more time to develop. The falling in love itself was pretty quick, but I enjoyed them together and it felt realistic that they’d fall in love eventually, Kasia kicks too much ass to not get a hot elf husband, so I wasn’t super miffed about the speed of it.
At first I also thought the ending was a bit of a copout, but after giving it some thought I think it worked just for how bittersweet it was and it made enough sense that I accepted it and came away from the book feeling satisfied and happy that I read it.
So yeah! This one is an easy four stars. It’s not groundbreaking, but it has a genuinely fun and active heroine, an appropriately brooding hero, a fun doggo sidekick and a cute soulmate love story with a magic-y backdrop. If you’re into this sort of thing, this could be an easy breezy afternoon read!
I still don’t know what the thorn in Thorn Bride refers to, though. I guess the Hedge dividing the human lands from the elf ones? Idk.
October 11, 2022
a sweet and riveting story
I adored this story. The heroine was fierce but fragile and the hero was appropriately scarred and tragic and easy to love. I loved the side characters too. I could easily devour an entire series in this world.
I adored this story. The heroine was fierce but fragile and the hero was appropriately scarred and tragic and easy to love. I loved the side characters too. I could easily devour an entire series in this world.
Read
September 26, 2021*Note: I read this series however I do not personally recommend it due to magic.
I really liked this one, a lot!
I really liked this one, a lot!
January 31, 2023
2.5
This made me realise that i prefer longer books and more of a slow burn development
We live and we learn i guess
This made me realise that i prefer longer books and more of a slow burn development
We live and we learn i guess
April 9, 2021
I just had to preemptively say, “What an amazing lineup!!!” I have read and enjoyed multiple books by seven out of eight of these writers, and this looks like a great place to start reading Emma Hamm.
Special praise for Kenley Davidson and Sylvia Mercedes. Mercedes is the BEST with sweet, yet spicy Romance. Both Davidson and Mercedes write creative worlds with intricate characters and fast-paced, no-time-for-maudlin plots. Glad that Davidson could work in her Abreia world here.
Love that the release date is one a week!
Special praise for Kenley Davidson and Sylvia Mercedes. Mercedes is the BEST with sweet, yet spicy Romance. Both Davidson and Mercedes write creative worlds with intricate characters and fast-paced, no-time-for-maudlin plots. Glad that Davidson could work in her Abreia world here.
Love that the release date is one a week!
October 28, 2021
1.5 stars
Characterization all over the place. Heroine was too well-spoken and refined for a 'pig farmer'. There was no mention of the extent of her education to warrant such refinement, so every time she speaks, it was jarring.
Ended very abruptly.
Characterization all over the place. Heroine was too well-spoken and refined for a 'pig farmer'. There was no mention of the extent of her education to warrant such refinement, so every time she speaks, it was jarring.
Ended very abruptly.
July 3, 2021
This is the seventh in an eight book “series”. It isn’t a series so much as a collection of standalones tied together by the stolen bride trope. I’ve read three now, Stolen Threadwitch Bride, Stolen Shadow Bride and this one. They are steam free (unless kissing counts as steam for you) fantasy romances.
I was drawn to this one because of the main female character, Kasia. She's a pig farmer, well, not really, but pigs do play in. I love her. She's been handed this incredible burden of raising her siblings, and since I'm in the throes of raising young kids, I definitely identified. This is one of those rare romances where the MCs TALK to each other, which is my favorite trope. In only one instance did they not tell each other something, and I could forgive that since they were very adult about everything else. The author did a great job of writing Kasia and how she handled the crazy circumstances she was thrust into. I really enjoyed this one.
I was drawn to this one because of the main female character, Kasia. She's a pig farmer, well, not really, but pigs do play in. I love her. She's been handed this incredible burden of raising her siblings, and since I'm in the throes of raising young kids, I definitely identified. This is one of those rare romances where the MCs TALK to each other, which is my favorite trope. In only one instance did they not tell each other something, and I could forgive that since they were very adult about everything else. The author did a great job of writing Kasia and how she handled the crazy circumstances she was thrust into. I really enjoyed this one.
July 6, 2021
Once again, Kenley Davidson knocks it out of the park!
Even though this is a novella, it reads like a full novel. There's nothing really lacking here, save perhaps for slightly longer transitions in between time skips. The heroine is feisty and not lacking in courage, while the hero shines as a leader who is burdened by duty and sacrifice. Both are well-written and entirely enjoyable to read as they banter and argue their way into love. Besides, have I mentioned how much I LOVE farm girl heroines?
Not to mention the plot hits home, too. There's plenty of angst and worry over the fate of the fae and the humans both, not to mention the battle of prejudices against magic and humans on the human and fae sides, respectively.
All in all, Kenley Davidson delivers on a book that's full of beautiful worldbuilding, loyal and hardworking characters, and romance.
Even though this is a novella, it reads like a full novel. There's nothing really lacking here, save perhaps for slightly longer transitions in between time skips. The heroine is feisty and not lacking in courage, while the hero shines as a leader who is burdened by duty and sacrifice. Both are well-written and entirely enjoyable to read as they banter and argue their way into love. Besides, have I mentioned how much I LOVE farm girl heroines?
Not to mention the plot hits home, too. There's plenty of angst and worry over the fate of the fae and the humans both, not to mention the battle of prejudices against magic and humans on the human and fae sides, respectively.
All in all, Kenley Davidson delivers on a book that's full of beautiful worldbuilding, loyal and hardworking characters, and romance.
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