What do you think?
Rate this book
Princesses of Selmy Island #1
Falcon's Kiss
Princess Marya Sova has always been the born leader of her siblings, but when her father dies, her brother must take the crown. Marya knows she would be better suited to the job, but as a woman, that is not an option. She will settle for serving as his advisor if it means helping her kingdom. But suddenly her brother is insisting she help secure them a political alliance by marrying into another kingdom. Is marriage really the only way a princess can help her kingdom?
Prince Ferrand Foucon is lucky. As a Demi-Fae Prince he knows his Father's Fae life-span gives him plenty of time to enjoy life before he takes over as King. When his father sends him to spy on the new King of Selmy Island, he finds himself drawn to the eldest princess. His father wants him to marry her, and solidify ties between their kingdoms. After seeing his father's broken heart when his human mother died, he has sworn to never fall for a short-lived human woman.
Can they make a union work to save both their kingdoms from an outside threat that could destroy the entire realm?
Prince Ferrand Foucon is lucky. As a Demi-Fae Prince he knows his Father's Fae life-span gives him plenty of time to enjoy life before he takes over as King. When his father sends him to spy on the new King of Selmy Island, he finds himself drawn to the eldest princess. His father wants him to marry her, and solidify ties between their kingdoms. After seeing his father's broken heart when his human mother died, he has sworn to never fall for a short-lived human woman.
Can they make a union work to save both their kingdoms from an outside threat that could destroy the entire realm?
184 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2020
35 people are currently reading
337 people want to read
About the author
Mandi Richards
8 books23 followersAuthor . Mom . Wife . Teacher . Nerd
Mandi Richards is the smut-writing alter of a good-girl nerd. She is first and foremost a mom of two wonderful boys and three kitties. She is married to her high school sweetheart, and she is an elementary school teacher. When she is not busy with all of that (which definitely doesn't leave her much time!) she can usually be found reading, playing dungeons and dragons, watching Disney princess movies, or playing minecraft.
Mandi Richards is the smut-writing alter of a good-girl nerd. She is first and foremost a mom of two wonderful boys and three kitties. She is married to her high school sweetheart, and she is an elementary school teacher. When she is not busy with all of that (which definitely doesn't leave her much time!) she can usually be found reading, playing dungeons and dragons, watching Disney princess movies, or playing minecraft.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 21, 2021
Falcon's Kiss is the story of Ferrand, a demi-fae prince and Marya, a human princess. When Marya is passed up to rule her kingdom, she's urged into forming an alliance in marriage. She and Ferrand go into the arrangement determined to not catch feelings, but they do.
Instalove stories don't bother me like they do some others. Falling in love quickly is a common thing, especially among younger people. The trope of a marriage of convenience was believable. I thought Ferrand was a good character, but Marya grated on me after a while. She puts on an air of being an independent woman, but she often acts so naive and wishy-washy. The world building was okay. It probably could have used a little more. The thing that bothered me the most is that this story contains the trope I absolutely hate the most. I won't spoil that for you here, and it's strictly a personal preference. It might not bother you at all. Finally, I loved the beautiful cover of this book.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary audiobook to listen to and review. All opinions are my own.
Instalove stories don't bother me like they do some others. Falling in love quickly is a common thing, especially among younger people. The trope of a marriage of convenience was believable. I thought Ferrand was a good character, but Marya grated on me after a while. She puts on an air of being an independent woman, but she often acts so naive and wishy-washy. The world building was okay. It probably could have used a little more. The thing that bothered me the most is that this story contains the trope I absolutely hate the most. I won't spoil that for you here, and it's strictly a personal preference. It might not bother you at all. Finally, I loved the beautiful cover of this book.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary audiobook to listen to and review. All opinions are my own.
August 4, 2020
If you're looking for a light, enjoyable fantasy romance - this book is for you.
Gorgeous characters and an interesting plot and a 'marriage of convenience' romance trope that is executed flawlessly.
This book is book 1 of the Princesses of Selmy Island series and follows Princess Marya after her parents die of a mysterious illness and she is forced to marry for political alliance by her 'useless' brother.
As luck would have it - the best match: a demi-fae prince - is GORGEOUS. Yay!
I devoured this book in pretty much one sitting and it was as enjoyable as a decadent afternoon tea. Get on board the Falcon's Kiss and sail away with these delightful characters...
(I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review)
Gorgeous characters and an interesting plot and a 'marriage of convenience' romance trope that is executed flawlessly.
This book is book 1 of the Princesses of Selmy Island series and follows Princess Marya after her parents die of a mysterious illness and she is forced to marry for political alliance by her 'useless' brother.
As luck would have it - the best match: a demi-fae prince - is GORGEOUS. Yay!
I devoured this book in pretty much one sitting and it was as enjoyable as a decadent afternoon tea. Get on board the Falcon's Kiss and sail away with these delightful characters...
(I was given an ARC of this book in return for an honest review)
December 31, 2020
This book was a quick, enjoyable read all around! There’s your share of angst and mutual pining, but it also has plenty of sweet moments that make up for the heartache. Also—ARRANGED MARRIAGE. Need I say more? ;D
I’m excited to see where this series goes!
I’m excited to see where this series goes!
Want to read
November 26, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/26/2020)! 🎁
July 26, 2020
This book was a wonderfully fun read that I devoured quickly. I love anything with Fae. Mandi Richards constructs a world where most of the Fae have returned to their own realm, but a few remain. Some humans are also blessed with Fae-like abilities, including the MC.
This is the first book in a series that promises adventure, but the romance took center stage for me with fun steamy scenes throughout.
I cant wait for book 2!
This is the first book in a series that promises adventure, but the romance took center stage for me with fun steamy scenes throughout.
I cant wait for book 2!
September 15, 2020
4.5 rating. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, such a fun read. Both main characters, Ferrand and Marya, were interesting and likable. Marya wants to help rule her kingdom after her parents die, but as her brother takes over he decides to use Marya in a political marriage. Ferdinand, demi-fae prince, is not interested in ruling or marriage. Brought together by the wishes of others they quickly realize that their union could be more than one of just politics.They had great chemistry together and seemed a great fit together. Ferrand would treat Marya as an equal, allowing Marya to finally help rule. Ferrand is easy going and caring. Marya is smart and capable of helping run things. I liked that she called Ferrand out on his shortcomings and wasn't afraid to talk about it. She also likes to run. I can't remember a single other book where a princess or noble woman likes to run so I liked that she did.
There is a bit of push pull and I'm keeping this from you for your best interest, which is what brought this down from a 5. Ferrand is afraid to fall in love with a human because of their short life spans, but they seem to get past that only to have it brought back at the threat of war. Marya is kept in the dark by Ferdinand, him believing it will protect her, but it only upsets her and makes things rough between them. I really enjoyed them together, but the mild angst between them dragged on for a bit long for me. By the end of the book they are back to normal and Ferrand will share everything with Marya making them equal and partners. I believe in the other books, even though it won't be from her perspective, we'll get to see how she helps both her country and Ferrand's. I do wish we got to see more of her involvement in politics in this book though.
Overall a really enjoyable read. Great world building and fae lore that I'm excited to learn more about. The coming war will be very exciting and I'm happy to learn more about her sisters. Content warning there are some steamy scenes.
There is a bit of push pull and I'm keeping this from you for your best interest, which is what brought this down from a 5. Ferrand is afraid to fall in love with a human because of their short life spans, but they seem to get past that only to have it brought back at the threat of war. Marya is kept in the dark by Ferdinand, him believing it will protect her, but it only upsets her and makes things rough between them. I really enjoyed them together, but the mild angst between them dragged on for a bit long for me. By the end of the book they are back to normal and Ferrand will share everything with Marya making them equal and partners. I believe in the other books, even though it won't be from her perspective, we'll get to see how she helps both her country and Ferrand's. I do wish we got to see more of her involvement in politics in this book though.
Overall a really enjoyable read. Great world building and fae lore that I'm excited to learn more about. The coming war will be very exciting and I'm happy to learn more about her sisters. Content warning there are some steamy scenes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2020
Falcon's kiss is the first in a new fantasy trilogy, Princesses of Selmy Island, by author Mandy Richards. It is loosely based in a beloved Russian fairy tale, but with new elements and a refreshing style. The tale portraits Maria, the oldest among Selmy Island Princesses, who has to entry in a convenience marriage for the sake of her kingdom. Maria is a very assertive ad pragmatic girl, with a mind of her own. In essence, she thinks to be more ready for rule her country than her older brother (and she certanly is, of course). But hers is a male world, so Maria weds Ferrand, a half fairy prince of a neighbor kingdom. Theirs will be a match made in heaven (after some initial troubles, how we wait to find in a good romance), because Ferrand respects the inteligence of Maria, but also awokes in hers a more sweet side, and the strong princess needs to learn to be loved and protected. In all, it is a pleasant reading, with love, political intrigue and adventure in a good level. There are good humorous moments, especially when the sisters and the advisors of the kingdom of Selmy almost lose the temper with the inept Prince Ivan. I will wait for Olga and Anna’s stories, when more interludes with fairy guys must occur, especially, I think, with Olga and King Nasir. I hope also appears a woman capable to turn the head of Ivan off the books and he becomes a real king for his people. I think we will have good laugh and strong emotions in this meeting.
I receive an arc copy for honest review.
I receive an arc copy for honest review.
August 7, 2020
Before I begin my review for Falcons Kiss by Mandi Richards I would like to personally thank Booksprout, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest opinion.
An independent princess in mourning, a seafaring half fae prince, an arranged marriage and a spark of desire, Falcons Kiss is an epic and seductive new adult fantasy novel by Mandi Richards. Fans of Sarah J Maas and Tricia Levensellar are going to devour this attractive introduction to the Princesses of Selmy Island series.
Falcons Kiss features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Fae
○ Demi-fae
○ Royal families
○ Arranged marriage
○ Kingdoms
○ Steamy scenes
○ Animal companions/familiars
○ Independent woman
○ Sea voyage
My overall rating for Falcons Kiss is…
4 stars!
This book was absolutely amazing! I fell in love with the characters from the get go and have added a delicious Demi-fae to my ever growing book boyfriend harem, and oh boy is he a selfless lover! The world building is intriguing and the writing style is riveting. You can’t go wrong with this book!
An independent princess in mourning, a seafaring half fae prince, an arranged marriage and a spark of desire, Falcons Kiss is an epic and seductive new adult fantasy novel by Mandi Richards. Fans of Sarah J Maas and Tricia Levensellar are going to devour this attractive introduction to the Princesses of Selmy Island series.
Falcons Kiss features, but is not limited to, the following themes:
○ Fae
○ Demi-fae
○ Royal families
○ Arranged marriage
○ Kingdoms
○ Steamy scenes
○ Animal companions/familiars
○ Independent woman
○ Sea voyage
My overall rating for Falcons Kiss is…
4 stars!
This book was absolutely amazing! I fell in love with the characters from the get go and have added a delicious Demi-fae to my ever growing book boyfriend harem, and oh boy is he a selfless lover! The world building is intriguing and the writing style is riveting. You can’t go wrong with this book!
August 15, 2020
I loved this book. The authors writing flowed brilliantly. The characters are gorgeous and it’s got an amazing ‘marriage of convenience’ trope. The author Mandi Richards perfectly constructed a world where most of the Fae have returned to their own realms, but a few remain. Some humans are also blessed with Fae-like abilities. The main character Marya was head strong and the authors writing made her easy to relate to. Marya love interest a Demi-Fae named Ferrand was perfect for her and the story. He was portrayed beautifully. I loved the way the author built the world in the story and the character. This book is written in multiple POVs between the two main characters, this story has many twists and turns, and surprised that kept me reading into the night. This is the first book in a series that promises adventure, but it was the romance that I enjoyed a lot and took centre stage with some fun steamy scenes. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait to read book 2.
January 2, 2023
The first part of this book was very strong--it had a decent premise and set up the relationship well. However, the second half was very disappointing, and it felt like the author gave up halfway through or couldn't handle how large the story was getting. I wanted a lot more, and it seemed like there were things set up to pay off that didn't, as well as things that should have been set up from the beginning but weren't. The "climax" of the book was strange, and I didn't even realize that was supposed to be the climax until it suddenly was the epilogue. I couldn't even tell the book had been finished.
The problem is, the writing itself (the prose and the technique) is solid. I like is much better than many romance novels I have read. But it seemed like the author lost steam. This easily could have broadened into a trilogy, and honestly, this story probably shouldn't have been a romance.
The problem is, the writing itself (the prose and the technique) is solid. I like is much better than many romance novels I have read. But it seemed like the author lost steam. This easily could have broadened into a trilogy, and honestly, this story probably shouldn't have been a romance.
August 16, 2020
I really enjoyed reading this book. I enjoyed delving into this new world filled with Fae, Demi-Fae and humans.
This is one independent princess that doesn’t want to settle into marriage and the expectations that is placed on women. Marya has a strong personality and even with the losses in her life, she still remains positive and wants to help her kingdom.
The introduction of Ferrand as the love interest but mainly as an alliance between two kingdoms allows us to see Marya in a new way.
I loved the slow building romance and how through the short time they knew each other they fell in love. The amount of trust in each other and the match is perfect even with the revelation of a war is coming.
I’m looking forward to the next book to see what happens next to Marya and Ferrand. I would definitely recommend this book and lovers of ACOTAR could possibly love this book.
This is one independent princess that doesn’t want to settle into marriage and the expectations that is placed on women. Marya has a strong personality and even with the losses in her life, she still remains positive and wants to help her kingdom.
The introduction of Ferrand as the love interest but mainly as an alliance between two kingdoms allows us to see Marya in a new way.
I loved the slow building romance and how through the short time they knew each other they fell in love. The amount of trust in each other and the match is perfect even with the revelation of a war is coming.
I’m looking forward to the next book to see what happens next to Marya and Ferrand. I would definitely recommend this book and lovers of ACOTAR could possibly love this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2021
Very nice, high heat and high seas.
Found another new author I’ll be following. Very nice world building and great characters. The overall plot and continuing conflict that continues into book 2 is intriguing and I can’t wait to see how it shakes out.
This is a m/f romantic fantasy with a kind of arranged political marriage but of convenience. These two characters go in with hearts guarded but sparks fly almost from the get go…can you say fated mates?! It was awesome. Great chemistry, delicious steam on page and a heroine who isn’t afraid to drag the hero out of his shell.
I especially loved the relationship between Geri and Ferrand. I love the concept of a familiar that can communicate with the other characters. I only wish we say more of her.
Found another new author I’ll be following. Very nice world building and great characters. The overall plot and continuing conflict that continues into book 2 is intriguing and I can’t wait to see how it shakes out.
This is a m/f romantic fantasy with a kind of arranged political marriage but of convenience. These two characters go in with hearts guarded but sparks fly almost from the get go…can you say fated mates?! It was awesome. Great chemistry, delicious steam on page and a heroine who isn’t afraid to drag the hero out of his shell.
I especially loved the relationship between Geri and Ferrand. I love the concept of a familiar that can communicate with the other characters. I only wish we say more of her.
September 12, 2025
Audiobook: This was my first experience with this author's work, and it was entertaining. The story moved along fairly quickly, and it featured one of my favorite tropes that of a marriage of convenience. I liked the Demi-Fae Prince Ferrand Foucon who wanted to spend his time sailing. I had some issues with Princess Marya Sova as she was described as strong and forward-thinking, but she always seemed to be running away rather than dealing with the issues. There were some steamy moments described. I thought Jennifer Smith's narration was entertaining. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
August 17, 2020
Ugh, this was a tough one for me to review. I'd probably give it a 3.5 star review. I'll first start out by saying that the author is a great writer. I did feel captivated in the world and I thoroughly enjoyed the characters. At first, I found that any spare second I had, I was returning to this book. But then things sort of flatlined for me. The story began to feel very repetitive and I found that I was missing the lack of adventure. I didn't feel like there was necessarily a true plot if you will. Overall, I'd say the book was an enjoyable read in many aspects, but it left much to be desired.
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 30, 2021
Honestly, "Falcon's Kiss" is a pretty good book. The Main Character Marya is headstrong and smart and her love interest is swoon-worthy. However, the insta-love was not something I enjoyed. Also one of my least favorite tropes was in this and I did not know that when I started reading the book.
The pacing is fine, at times it can be a bit slow but it is generally pretty fast-paced. The only other thing I didn't really like was the ending; I thought it was a bit abrupt and would have wished for the book to be maybe a chapter or two longer.
Apart from that "Falcon's Kiss" is a great fast and fun read with just a little bit of spice.
The pacing is fine, at times it can be a bit slow but it is generally pretty fast-paced. The only other thing I didn't really like was the ending; I thought it was a bit abrupt and would have wished for the book to be maybe a chapter or two longer.
Apart from that "Falcon's Kiss" is a great fast and fun read with just a little bit of spice.
August 30, 2021
Plot Cliffhanger.
It's a good book but I think it was too fast. It would have been better to follow this couple over the entire series instead of going to another couple in the next book.
I just don't feel satisfied.
The war hasn't started = they haven't won the war and life-bonded yet.
The pregnancy came with a solid uppercut. How are you going to fight now???
I just feel like following this couple through the war and the romance (with a later pregnancy instead) would have been much more satisfying to me.
It's a good book but I think it was too fast. It would have been better to follow this couple over the entire series instead of going to another couple in the next book.
I just don't feel satisfied.
The war hasn't started = they haven't won the war and life-bonded yet.
The pregnancy came with a solid uppercut. How are you going to fight now???
I just feel like following this couple through the war and the romance (with a later pregnancy instead) would have been much more satisfying to me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2021
Marya is a headstrong princess who must be married off after her parents died. Ferrand is a demi-fae prince who never wanted to marry.
Along the journey to his home, they realise they have more in common than they thought.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Marya and her sisters and I really loved the relationship between Ferrand and his falcon. I hope the next one has more of these relationships.
I received a copy for review. I listened to the audiobook, all opinions and the decision to leave a review are my own.
Along the journey to his home, they realise they have more in common than they thought.
I really enjoyed the relationship between Marya and her sisters and I really loved the relationship between Ferrand and his falcon. I hope the next one has more of these relationships.
I received a copy for review. I listened to the audiobook, all opinions and the decision to leave a review are my own.
April 14, 2022
I honestly had a hard time getting into this book at first. It is a very short read and I honestly wish it was longer. I wanted the relationship to build between the characters. I wanted to experience more of the world they lived in. I enjoyed the world building and the romance once it hit the ground. Then it was like boom and done, story over. Everything just happens too fast and the conflict was meh. There was also a surprise pregnancy which I am not sure how I feel about.
But even so it was enjoyable if you want a quick romance read.
But even so it was enjoyable if you want a quick romance read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2020
A whirlwind fantasy romance set against a magical backdrop, Falcon's Kiss was a fun, sweet, and sizzling read written by debut author Amanda Gauvin.
Book 1 in what proves to be an exciting series if this is any indication, it follows Marya, a human princess who just tragically lost her parents, and Ferrand, a demi-fae prince. Both always knew they never wanted to marry, but when Marya's brother Ivan pushes her into an arranged marriage to form a political alliance, she finds herself attracted to the mysteries fae Prince. He promises freedom, and adventure, and magic, but can love really blossom between two people who want nothing more than to push eachother away?
Written in multi-POV between the two MCs this story is full of twists, turns, surprises, and enough swoonworthy scenes to turn this reader into a little puddle of melty goodness.
4/5 stars, definitely read if you enjoy a good marriage of convenience trope, or just a hot hot hot romance with ooh la la sex scenes. 😉
Book 1 in what proves to be an exciting series if this is any indication, it follows Marya, a human princess who just tragically lost her parents, and Ferrand, a demi-fae prince. Both always knew they never wanted to marry, but when Marya's brother Ivan pushes her into an arranged marriage to form a political alliance, she finds herself attracted to the mysteries fae Prince. He promises freedom, and adventure, and magic, but can love really blossom between two people who want nothing more than to push eachother away?
Written in multi-POV between the two MCs this story is full of twists, turns, surprises, and enough swoonworthy scenes to turn this reader into a little puddle of melty goodness.
4/5 stars, definitely read if you enjoy a good marriage of convenience trope, or just a hot hot hot romance with ooh la la sex scenes. 😉
October 31, 2021
I honestly don't understand how anyone has rated it more.... The world building was alright.
My main issue is the fact that the two main characters claim to be in love with each other within 2 months of knowing each other, made it feel immature.
Also, I love a bit of spice, but if another author calls the clitoris a 'bundle of nerves' I think I might shoot myself.
My main issue is the fact that the two main characters claim to be in love with each other within 2 months of knowing each other, made it feel immature.
Also, I love a bit of spice, but if another author calls the clitoris a 'bundle of nerves' I think I might shoot myself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2021
I enjoyed the story. Mayra & Ferrand were a great match they just had to discover that. A marriage for political reasons is never a good idea. Once they got to know each other things started to change. A story full of love, honesty & trust. It has great characters & a good storyline. I absolutely loved Jerry the falcon. Great job by the author & I would love to listen to book 2.
October 26, 2021
I liked this book but I didn't love it. I wasn't a fan of the insta love/ lust between Ferrand and Marya. They ended up liking each other way too quickly. But it was a very short book so I guess it makes sense. Overall this was a short and enjoyable read.
October 7, 2022
Sweet, steamy fae romance!
If you’re looking for Bridgerton, but with fae and awesome worldbuilding, this book is for you! Bonus points if you love political marriage turned romance! Excited to read the next book!
If you’re looking for Bridgerton, but with fae and awesome worldbuilding, this book is for you! Bonus points if you love political marriage turned romance! Excited to read the next book!
August 12, 2020
This was such a wonderful fantasy romance. I cannot wait to read the second book already. The characters were gold and the writing was beautiful.
read-e-books
August 24, 2020Marya and Ferrand's Story
December 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! It was a fun, entertaining and quick read. The romance was steamy and the world was interesting- I can’t wait to find out more about the fae realm!
June 11, 2021
Awesome
Great. First book. I look forward to reading future stories. The characters are very well written. If there was one criticism I have is that the stories should longer.
Great. First book. I look forward to reading future stories. The characters are very well written. If there was one criticism I have is that the stories should longer.
October 11, 2021
Cute and fluffy - more of an insta-love type of story.
July 1, 2022
Error, plot not found. Also replace the main couple with your otp and you have an average royalty au fic in your hands.
October 5, 2022
This is a review for book 1. I was looking for a new series to read about Fairy’s and magic. I did try book 2 as a well to give it a fair shot, I just was not a fan.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews