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Seasons of the Lukoi #1
Winter of the Owl
Sava has the best house in all of Lukos. He built it himself, dreaming of the day when he and Milan, the man he loved, could live there and brave the harsh winters of Lukos together—only to be devastated when Milan was found dead in the spring. Fraught with grief, Sava resigns himself to spending his winters alone.
Then a stranger appears on his doorstep, and everything changes.
Victor is a scholar from Gerakia, a land known for its long summers and vibrant history, and he has never been more unprepared in his life. Abandoned on the inhospitable island of Lukos after a disastrous relationship, Victor has to adapt quickly to survive. It helps, of course, that he’s taken in by Sava, who has the biggest heart of any man Victor has ever known. Victor and Sava start to make a home together, growing close as snow falls outside, but the true danger of a Lukos winter is closer than they suspect...
Then a stranger appears on his doorstep, and everything changes.
Victor is a scholar from Gerakia, a land known for its long summers and vibrant history, and he has never been more unprepared in his life. Abandoned on the inhospitable island of Lukos after a disastrous relationship, Victor has to adapt quickly to survive. It helps, of course, that he’s taken in by Sava, who has the biggest heart of any man Victor has ever known. Victor and Sava start to make a home together, growing close as snow falls outside, but the true danger of a Lukos winter is closer than they suspect...
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 21, 2021
41 people are currently reading
630 people want to read
About the author
Iris Foxglove
27 books186 followersIris Foxglove is the shared pen name of Avon Gale (she/her) and Fae Loxley (he/him). Avon and Fae met in fandom in 2019, and began writing fanfiction together in 2020 during lockdown. They eventually decided to collaborate on original fantasy fiction, and haven't looked back since.
They write queer fantasy with an emphasis on biological imperative, natural power exchange dynamics, complex worldbuilding and unforgettable characters.
You can follow Iris on twitter @irisfoxglove, or sign up for Iris' newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hrhA6z
Iris also has a brand-new Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/irisfoxglove
Iris' Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
You can also follow the authors individually on Twitter and Facebook:
Avon Gale
Twitter: https://twitter.com/avongalewrites
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/2p8hz4fv
Fae Loxley
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fae_loxley
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/mrxt2fnn
They write queer fantasy with an emphasis on biological imperative, natural power exchange dynamics, complex worldbuilding and unforgettable characters.
You can follow Iris on twitter @irisfoxglove, or sign up for Iris' newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hrhA6z
Iris also has a brand-new Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/irisfoxglove
Iris' Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...
You can also follow the authors individually on Twitter and Facebook:
Avon Gale
Twitter: https://twitter.com/avongalewrites
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/2p8hz4fv
Fae Loxley
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Fae_loxley
Facebook: https://tinyurl.com/mrxt2fnn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 9, 2022
2.80 stars
I really liked the setting and the worldbuilding, as well as the setup for the MCs meeting. The writing was good, but there were a few things that kept this book from working as well as it could’ve. Sava and Victor went from zero to “mates” much faster than I expected and that didn’t ring true to the characterization established at the beginning of the book, I expected them to get to know each other better first and for the decision to be more gradual, to build up a little, not come suddenly from one minute to the next. The BDSM aspect, that seemed so interesting at first with the society distinguished in dominants and submissives, was also a bit of a letdown when it came to the execution. As a result, the relationship didn’t live up to its potential, among other things because the story started focusing on other aspects that culminated in and the OTT ending.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but I liked the first part more and now I’m not so sure if I want to continue with the series.
I really liked the setting and the worldbuilding, as well as the setup for the MCs meeting. The writing was good, but there were a few things that kept this book from working as well as it could’ve. Sava and Victor went from zero to “mates” much faster than I expected and that didn’t ring true to the characterization established at the beginning of the book, I expected them to get to know each other better first and for the decision to be more gradual, to build up a little, not come suddenly from one minute to the next. The BDSM aspect, that seemed so interesting at first with the society distinguished in dominants and submissives, was also a bit of a letdown when it came to the execution. As a result, the relationship didn’t live up to its potential, among other things because the story started focusing on other aspects that culminated in and the OTT ending.
Overall, I enjoyed this, but I liked the first part more and now I’m not so sure if I want to continue with the series.
January 14, 2022
I liked this quiet book a great deal. Victor and Sava are complex MCs with many stories to tell.
The world building is imaginative and interesting. The way Lukos is described reminds me of Alaska: cold and stark, with long, hard winters, but also beautiful and rewarding for those who call it home.
In this fantasy world, each person is either dominant or submissive. I'm not a fan of that concept, because I think for most people dominance/submissiveness falls on a spectrum, much like sexuality, which can change and evolve depending on time and context.
But it worked for Victor and Sava, with a fair power exchange and a few explosive scenes (bondage and blindfolds, no pain or humiliation) where Victor puts his trust in Sava. There's a good deal of hurt/comfort too as Sava and Victor care for each other.
I will admit that it took me a little while to get into this book, as the pacing is rather slow in the beginning. I'm glad I stuck with it, though, because the last few chapters are rather intense, with intrigue and betrayal, and the epilogue brings everything full circle.
Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi, was my favorite secondary character, so I'm thrilled that his story is next.
The world building is imaginative and interesting. The way Lukos is described reminds me of Alaska: cold and stark, with long, hard winters, but also beautiful and rewarding for those who call it home.
In this fantasy world, each person is either dominant or submissive. I'm not a fan of that concept, because I think for most people dominance/submissiveness falls on a spectrum, much like sexuality, which can change and evolve depending on time and context.
But it worked for Victor and Sava, with a fair power exchange and a few explosive scenes (bondage and blindfolds, no pain or humiliation) where Victor puts his trust in Sava. There's a good deal of hurt/comfort too as Sava and Victor care for each other.
I will admit that it took me a little while to get into this book, as the pacing is rather slow in the beginning. I'm glad I stuck with it, though, because the last few chapters are rather intense, with intrigue and betrayal, and the epilogue brings everything full circle.
Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi, was my favorite secondary character, so I'm thrilled that his story is next.
February 14, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this one.
It has a warm and quiet vibe about it, with two sympathetic MCs, introducing an interesting story that will no doubt be spun further over the next books.
I liked that both men act sensibly and with a lot of heart. Both come across as totally genuine.
Victor’s enthusiastic curiousness is totally cute without being silly or OTT, and Sava is simply an innately good man, who enjoys his simple life on a very hostile island. In many ways both men are sweetly naïve and good-natured, almost unable to comprehend how people can be bad or evil. (something that almost costs them dearly in the last third of the book).
There is, in fact, a huge emphasis how simple life on Lukos is. And that survival is right on top of everyone’s priority list. Braving the climate sounds truly courageous!
And if you wonder about the fact that people are either born dominant or submissive …. I actually haven’t put this book on my BDSM shelf because apart from a dom/sub feel between the two men and a little bit of bondage nothing else falls into that category.
Sava and Victor's romance is honest, heart-warming and simple in a very good way.
I will return to this world to see where the author is taking this.
It has a warm and quiet vibe about it, with two sympathetic MCs, introducing an interesting story that will no doubt be spun further over the next books.
I liked that both men act sensibly and with a lot of heart. Both come across as totally genuine.
Victor’s enthusiastic curiousness is totally cute without being silly or OTT, and Sava is simply an innately good man, who enjoys his simple life on a very hostile island. In many ways both men are sweetly naïve and good-natured, almost unable to comprehend how people can be bad or evil. (something that almost costs them dearly in the last third of the book).
There is, in fact, a huge emphasis how simple life on Lukos is. And that survival is right on top of everyone’s priority list. Braving the climate sounds truly courageous!
And if you wonder about the fact that people are either born dominant or submissive …. I actually haven’t put this book on my BDSM shelf because apart from a dom/sub feel between the two men and a little bit of bondage nothing else falls into that category.
Sava and Victor's romance is honest, heart-warming and simple in a very good way.
I will return to this world to see where the author is taking this.
December 29, 2021
This is my first book by these two authors and I pleasantly enjoyed this book. I'm excited for more.
What I liked:
- Both characters were lovable and sweet, to each other and to other people.
- Loved the take on BDSM in this world. The authors made it that everyone is either born a Sub or a Dom and they are then mated.
- Loved the "left for dead" trope and how Sava was so attentive and took care of Victor.
- The steam was HOT! Very light BDSM which was extra yummy.
- The ending was very satisfying as was the crisis towards the end.
Niggle:
I did feel like the book dragged towards the middle, but it was a minor issue.
What I liked:
- Both characters were lovable and sweet, to each other and to other people.
- Loved the take on BDSM in this world. The authors made it that everyone is either born a Sub or a Dom and they are then mated.
- Loved the "left for dead" trope and how Sava was so attentive and took care of Victor.
- The steam was HOT! Very light BDSM which was extra yummy.
- The ending was very satisfying as was the crisis towards the end.
Niggle:
I did feel like the book dragged towards the middle, but it was a minor issue.
January 11, 2022
Very occasionally I stumble across a really extraordinary story, this is one of them!
Victor was unprepared and unexpectedly expelled from where he lived, to an island named Lukos. Lukos is a place where winters are deadly for sure. Not the first time Victor was banned, he hopes his lover will come and get him back. Little does he know.
– “Sava Snow-Walker has the nicest house in Lukos,” people said. “His mate will be lucky, next winter.”-
Sadly Sava’s mate Milan died, he will spend the winter alone, grieving. Until Dragan Wolf-Breaker, kuvar of the Lukoi, asks Sava to take care of the stranded stranger who would have died from the cold.
Taking Victor in for the winter is just what people of Lukoi do, they take care of the other.
Sava and Victor speak different languages, luckily Victor knows a bit about the language Lukoi speak.
Emphasis on ‘a bit’, because the confusion about words and the meaning of them was endearing and sometimes so funny.
Sava learns, from what Victor says, that he has a mate. Throughout their time together he has to hold in his growing need to touch and comfort. He also learns Victor was left by his parents, was neglected in an orphan home, send to death by his lover, that he thinks he’s unwanted. The man is amazing with his big wondering eyes, he never saw real snow, he absorbs life to the fullest, a life he never fully lived.
The strong attraction between both men is something they can’t deny any longer or hold back from, thank goodness for winters and a warm house, and a nest full of fur meant for cuddles and much much more.
There’s a sort of bdsm woven into this story, about dominants and submissive, it’s a way of life in this story. It’s present as a natural way of living for everyone.
The biggest part of this narrative is quite mellow, warm and kind. At the end of the story, there’s some angst and thrill that cleared up all the mystery around certain matters.
Thank goodness for their hea, *wipes sweat from forehead*
The world created by the author was just breathtakingly fantastic. Imagine an isolated island, in a time where people’s lives and history are carved in caves, where they live of the land, use the herbs it gives them, where spoons are handmade carved of wood, where ice and snow are prominently unrelentingly present. Where people who survived winter at Lukos get named. The people are strong, warm, and loving! Read it, you will love them!
This story was pure poetry, gosh I loved the writing style, it absolutely spoke to my heart. The story was enthralling, enchanting, with breathtaking scenery.
ALL the stars for this deeply compelling journey!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Victor was unprepared and unexpectedly expelled from where he lived, to an island named Lukos. Lukos is a place where winters are deadly for sure. Not the first time Victor was banned, he hopes his lover will come and get him back. Little does he know.
– “Sava Snow-Walker has the nicest house in Lukos,” people said. “His mate will be lucky, next winter.”-
Sadly Sava’s mate Milan died, he will spend the winter alone, grieving. Until Dragan Wolf-Breaker, kuvar of the Lukoi, asks Sava to take care of the stranded stranger who would have died from the cold.
Taking Victor in for the winter is just what people of Lukoi do, they take care of the other.
Sava and Victor speak different languages, luckily Victor knows a bit about the language Lukoi speak.
Emphasis on ‘a bit’, because the confusion about words and the meaning of them was endearing and sometimes so funny.
Sava learns, from what Victor says, that he has a mate. Throughout their time together he has to hold in his growing need to touch and comfort. He also learns Victor was left by his parents, was neglected in an orphan home, send to death by his lover, that he thinks he’s unwanted. The man is amazing with his big wondering eyes, he never saw real snow, he absorbs life to the fullest, a life he never fully lived.
The strong attraction between both men is something they can’t deny any longer or hold back from, thank goodness for winters and a warm house, and a nest full of fur meant for cuddles and much much more.
There’s a sort of bdsm woven into this story, about dominants and submissive, it’s a way of life in this story. It’s present as a natural way of living for everyone.
The biggest part of this narrative is quite mellow, warm and kind. At the end of the story, there’s some angst and thrill that cleared up all the mystery around certain matters.
Thank goodness for their hea, *wipes sweat from forehead*
The world created by the author was just breathtakingly fantastic. Imagine an isolated island, in a time where people’s lives and history are carved in caves, where they live of the land, use the herbs it gives them, where spoons are handmade carved of wood, where ice and snow are prominently unrelentingly present. Where people who survived winter at Lukos get named. The people are strong, warm, and loving! Read it, you will love them!
This story was pure poetry, gosh I loved the writing style, it absolutely spoke to my heart. The story was enthralling, enchanting, with breathtaking scenery.
ALL the stars for this deeply compelling journey!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
May 29, 2025
Yes, you can give a book 3 stars that you really enjoyed, according to my nonsensical rating system. 😂
January 9, 2022
RTC but damn the world building in this book. This is my 7th book by the authors and the world building just keeps getting better and better. The way the authors build the world on their books is so engaging and always keeps me at the edge of my seat. Reading these books is just a pure delight to me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
December 17, 2021
It pains me to give this 3 stars. Maybe it's my mood, maybe it was my expectation based on the Starian Cycle? I don't know.
This is a feel good story, with the two MCs supporting each other and soaring each other up when the other person needed it and some angst to get the heart pumping. But see here's the thing, the sex scenes weren't as graphic, exciting and titillating as in Starian, something that I noticed with The King's Mage as well which was a bit of let down. Sava and Victor were cute and sweet but I found my self drifting while reading their story unfold.
I loved all the Lukos info and can't wait for more! Although I do know that books 3 and 4 will be MMFs so that's something that I'm still unsure on how I'll proceed (I left MF romance behind for reasons).
This is a feel good story, with the two MCs supporting each other and soaring each other up when the other person needed it and some angst to get the heart pumping. But see here's the thing, the sex scenes weren't as graphic, exciting and titillating as in Starian, something that I noticed with The King's Mage as well which was a bit of let down. Sava and Victor were cute and sweet but I found my self drifting while reading their story unfold.
I loved all the Lukos info and can't wait for more! Although I do know that books 3 and 4 will be MMFs so that's something that I'm still unsure on how I'll proceed (I left MF romance behind for reasons).
January 17, 2022
I liked this but didn't love it. I almost tossed it early on when I found out it was a world made up of dominants and submissives cuz the whole dom/sub thing is not my jam. This was uniquely done and was not necessarily sexual. Glad I pushed on because the dynamics did not bother me at all.
The plot was not super unique but I really liked both of the MC's. They were very sweet together and it was nice to see a couple who weren't having problems or trying to avoid relationships etc that we see so often. These were two guys actively wanting a partner and working to make it happen. No relationship drama between them. No big misunderstandings.
The ending was a bit OTT in my opinion but I'm still looking forward to the next two books. (especially the third one).
This is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.
The plot was not super unique but I really liked both of the MC's. They were very sweet together and it was nice to see a couple who weren't having problems or trying to avoid relationships etc that we see so often. These were two guys actively wanting a partner and working to make it happen. No relationship drama between them. No big misunderstandings.
The ending was a bit OTT in my opinion but I'm still looking forward to the next two books. (especially the third one).
This is on Kindle Unlimited if you have that.
December 8, 2021
Received an ARC -- thank you!
This is the first book in a new series by the authors of the Starian Cycle. Unlike the first book in that series, Traitor's Mercy, this one isn't nearly as dark. What it DOES have, though, are lots of fun tropes like "only one bed" and "snowed in a house" and a fun opposites attract/stranger-in-a-strange-land romance. I was worried it might not scratch the same itch as the Starian Cycle, which had a wide cast of characters and intrigue. This one is wonderful, though, in a whole new way -- great characters, continued awesome world-building (love all the folklore/mythology) and while the kink wasn't nearly as intense with the whole masochism thing as, say, Sabre's book (Traitor's Mercy), it was really well-integrated into the plot and characters. Also, I'm not a huge fun of sappy books or saccharine, and I like how this book was emotional without veering into sappy. I'm impressed at the ability these authors have to write such different kinds of books, and really looking forward to the next in the series (I believe it's about Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi). These books are really different while keeping that fun, fantasy dom-sub world and I'm really thrilled that we keep getting more.
Also love this cover!
This is the first book in a new series by the authors of the Starian Cycle. Unlike the first book in that series, Traitor's Mercy, this one isn't nearly as dark. What it DOES have, though, are lots of fun tropes like "only one bed" and "snowed in a house" and a fun opposites attract/stranger-in-a-strange-land romance. I was worried it might not scratch the same itch as the Starian Cycle, which had a wide cast of characters and intrigue. This one is wonderful, though, in a whole new way -- great characters, continued awesome world-building (love all the folklore/mythology) and while the kink wasn't nearly as intense with the whole masochism thing as, say, Sabre's book (Traitor's Mercy), it was really well-integrated into the plot and characters. Also, I'm not a huge fun of sappy books or saccharine, and I like how this book was emotional without veering into sappy. I'm impressed at the ability these authors have to write such different kinds of books, and really looking forward to the next in the series (I believe it's about Dragan, the leader of the Lukoi). These books are really different while keeping that fun, fantasy dom-sub world and I'm really thrilled that we keep getting more.
Also love this cover!
Read
April 2, 2024Speaking as a dweller of a frozen wasteland (Massachusetts), truly the only way to make winter bearable is to spend the entire season ensconced in an ultra-luxury nest of pillows and blankets built by someone utterly devoted to you, who will tend the hearth and bring you food and orgasms. Periodically you (hapless bookish type whose only survival skill is being good at languages; no comment) and your lover (giant bear-hunting lumberjack) might briefly go outside to admire the pristine snow. You’ll find these forays enjoyable because, as a fantasy romance protagonist, you will never have to skid your poorly equipped sedan through grey-brown icy slush to commute to work. Anyway, this book is very kinky—dominance and submission are part of the biological worldbuilding—and I thought it was a lot of fun, but there’s discussion of suicide, murder, and abuse, so be warned.
This review originally appeared in Word Suitcase.
This review originally appeared in Word Suitcase.
October 18, 2025
3.5 Stars
I'm a bit torn with this one. It started off really strong... then kind of took a turn when the romance all of a sudden went from 0-60 in like .0001 seconds. Seriously, I still have whiplash. Then... it got a little repetitive, but then it kind of got better towards the end. Overall there were a few times when I felt disappointed. It felt like the author was starting to go down the road of writing something VERY interesting, but then just kind of stalled out about half way. It had a lot of potential but for me it fell short.
I'm a bit torn with this one. It started off really strong... then kind of took a turn when the romance all of a sudden went from 0-60 in like .0001 seconds. Seriously, I still have whiplash. Then... it got a little repetitive, but then it kind of got better towards the end. Overall there were a few times when I felt disappointed. It felt like the author was starting to go down the road of writing something VERY interesting, but then just kind of stalled out about half way. It had a lot of potential but for me it fell short.
Read
December 9, 2021This book features:
*A scholar with a gift for languages showing up on the harshest island in Iperios...right in time for WINTER
*A gentle, big-hearted dominant who is willing to take him in and share supplies!
*Strangers snowed in for the winter!
*Cultural differences!
*An adorable snow kitten!
*Fantasy kink and feelings!
*LORE!
*Found family and a community that literally survived in the harshest conditions imaginable b/c SPITE
This is the first of a new series, set in the same world as THE STARIAN CYCLE but in Lukos, an island populated by the stubborn, determined descendants of exiles from a long-forgotten kingdom. Winter is brutal and the people are no-nonsense, resourceful and terrifyingly competent!
(This series is also a biological kink imperative/natural power exchange universe, which is not intended to resemble IRL BDSM practices or relationships. CW for sickness, grief, loss of family members and discussions of suicide. Please feel free to message the authors for further information if you'd like.)
*A scholar with a gift for languages showing up on the harshest island in Iperios...right in time for WINTER
*A gentle, big-hearted dominant who is willing to take him in and share supplies!
*Strangers snowed in for the winter!
*Cultural differences!
*An adorable snow kitten!
*Fantasy kink and feelings!
*LORE!
*Found family and a community that literally survived in the harshest conditions imaginable b/c SPITE
This is the first of a new series, set in the same world as THE STARIAN CYCLE but in Lukos, an island populated by the stubborn, determined descendants of exiles from a long-forgotten kingdom. Winter is brutal and the people are no-nonsense, resourceful and terrifyingly competent!
(This series is also a biological kink imperative/natural power exchange universe, which is not intended to resemble IRL BDSM practices or relationships. CW for sickness, grief, loss of family members and discussions of suicide. Please feel free to message the authors for further information if you'd like.)
March 23, 2024
Is this the definition of hurt/comfort?
After languishing on my TBR for *cough* too long *cough* I finally read and enjoyed this little gem of a book
- fantasy-esque setting
- sunshine-y sad boi™️ MC (you understand when reading) who has never really been at home
- MC who has only ever wanted to make a home for his future mate
- snowed-in together
- adopting a snow kitten together
- learning each other's cultures
- caretaking (while ill and in general)
- love languages (acts of service, gifts)
Sweet all around!
NSFW infos:
- Society in which people are born as submissive or dominant
Dominant MC is larger, home maker and tops
Submissive MC is smaller, has glasses (very good glasses rep), bottoms
Bondage and Blindfolding
Nickname:
Little Owl
After languishing on my TBR for *cough* too long *cough* I finally read and enjoyed this little gem of a book
- fantasy-esque setting
- sunshine-y sad boi™️ MC (you understand when reading) who has never really been at home
- MC who has only ever wanted to make a home for his future mate
- snowed-in together
- adopting a snow kitten together
- learning each other's cultures
- caretaking (while ill and in general)
- love languages (acts of service, gifts)
Sweet all around!
NSFW infos:
- Society in which people are born as submissive or dominant
Dominant MC is larger, home maker and tops
Submissive MC is smaller, has glasses (very good glasses rep), bottoms
Bondage and Blindfolding
Nickname:
Little Owl
February 22, 2024
So much to love about this!
❄️Speedy, the true hero of the story
❄️Two people falling in love and helping each other overcome their past and insecurities
❄️The worldbuilding. So much of it is shared by stories Victor and Sava share with each other, and it’s told beautifully.
❄️The imagery. I loved seeing Lukos through Victor’s eyes because he’s so happy and he makes it sound beautiful! (Even though I’d never actually live there. I’m not meant for the cold.)
❄️The suspense plot
❄️Speedy, the true hero of the story
❄️Two people falling in love and helping each other overcome their past and insecurities
❄️The worldbuilding. So much of it is shared by stories Victor and Sava share with each other, and it’s told beautifully.
❄️The imagery. I loved seeing Lukos through Victor’s eyes because he’s so happy and he makes it sound beautiful! (Even though I’d never actually live there. I’m not meant for the cold.)
❄️The suspense plot
June 18, 2022
A scholar is abandoned on a remote island nation known for its harsh winters. Both MCs are much more than their tropes, and their relationship doesn’t play out quite how you’d expect. Victor is the nerdy scholar who doesn’t know how to provide for himself, but he still brings a lot to the relationship and the community and is appreciated for his talents instead of scorned for his lack of survival skills. Sava is the self-sufficient provider, but he’s also big-hearted and in need of affection. Together they bring out the best in each other.
The Lukoi culture was interesting and fairly well-developed, though the authors inadvertently made it seem like there were about five people total in the town. (The second book does a better job with this.) The biological dominance/submission aspect, which I understand comes from the authors’ previous series in this world, mostly felt like an afterthought and didn’t bring much to the story or characters. The strong character development makes up for those worldbuilding issues, though.
The Lukoi culture was interesting and fairly well-developed, though the authors inadvertently made it seem like there were about five people total in the town. (The second book does a better job with this.) The biological dominance/submission aspect, which I understand comes from the authors’ previous series in this world, mostly felt like an afterthought and didn’t bring much to the story or characters. The strong character development makes up for those worldbuilding issues, though.
November 6, 2022
This was stinking adorable! I find the bio-kink in the writing duo's series to be super interesting.
Speedy the snow cat was a perfect addition to the story, and I loved his random cat quirks and arcs.
Snowed in for the winter vibes, mates, caretaking and working through grief and insecurities. I really enjoyed this, plus the narration was two thumbs up! Kris Antham did a great job.
Speedy the snow cat was a perfect addition to the story, and I loved his random cat quirks and arcs.
Snowed in for the winter vibes, mates, caretaking and working through grief and insecurities. I really enjoyed this, plus the narration was two thumbs up! Kris Antham did a great job.
March 20, 2022
It's not going to matter ultimately since I'm enjoying this book, but, in a place with so few people and little advance technology, where did they get glass for windows?
As other reviewers have said, this is a lovely, unusual romance, with a thread of danger and a happy ending. The worldbuilding is perfect, organic enough to feel real, and the characters are really good. I will probably give the next book a try. This author's work doesn't all appeal to me, but this one was a delight.
As other reviewers have said, this is a lovely, unusual romance, with a thread of danger and a happy ending. The worldbuilding is perfect, organic enough to feel real, and the characters are really good. I will probably give the next book a try. This author's work doesn't all appeal to me, but this one was a delight.
July 17, 2022
Lukoi: where the exiled learned to thrive
Fantastic world building with a beautiful story.
I appreciate how the story took time to build layers of depth while constantly moving forward and taking the reader with Victor along his journey.
In this world of natural born Dominants and submissive, the bit of kink was never the focus and instead blended well into each person’s character.
Fantastic world building with a beautiful story.
I appreciate how the story took time to build layers of depth while constantly moving forward and taking the reader with Victor along his journey.
In this world of natural born Dominants and submissive, the bit of kink was never the focus and instead blended well into each person’s character.
January 3, 2022
4 stars
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
This my first book by this set of authors and I enjoyed it
I loved Victor and his constant joy at all the new things coming his way. He could have been a more somber character, especially due to his upbringing, but he took joy in every new experience and it was nice to read.
Sava was also a good character. He suffered a lot of guilt over what happened to his previous mate to be, but that didn't stop him from opening up his home to man in need.
I enjoyed the set up of this one. It was a slower book but that worked for me as it gave the guys time to get to know each other and the use of the winter stay in helped them in really connecting.
Looking forward to seeing where this series leads
*** Arc provided by GRR. This is my honest review ***
This my first book by this set of authors and I enjoyed it
I loved Victor and his constant joy at all the new things coming his way. He could have been a more somber character, especially due to his upbringing, but he took joy in every new experience and it was nice to read.
Sava was also a good character. He suffered a lot of guilt over what happened to his previous mate to be, but that didn't stop him from opening up his home to man in need.
I enjoyed the set up of this one. It was a slower book but that worked for me as it gave the guys time to get to know each other and the use of the winter stay in helped them in really connecting.
Looking forward to seeing where this series leads
December 28, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Winter of the Owl is the first book in Iris Foxglove’s new Seasons of the Lukoi series. The series takes place in the same world as the authors’ Starian Cycle series, but this book stands alone perfectly and I had no trouble following along having not read the other series. Lukos is an island about which little is known and that is very separated from the rest of the world, so it has its own lore and world building. And that world building is really nicely done here. I love the idea of this community built from exiles, people pushed out of their homes who had to find a way to survive. As we learn, the early settlers banded together and formed a new society in this frigid and dangerous land. Now, the Lukos have a deep sense of community, helping one another survive and coming together to celebrate and share rituals. The land is so unforgiving that everyone is snowed in for most of winter, which means preparations are key and only the strongest survive.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Winter of the Owl is the first book in Iris Foxglove’s new Seasons of the Lukoi series. The series takes place in the same world as the authors’ Starian Cycle series, but this book stands alone perfectly and I had no trouble following along having not read the other series. Lukos is an island about which little is known and that is very separated from the rest of the world, so it has its own lore and world building. And that world building is really nicely done here. I love the idea of this community built from exiles, people pushed out of their homes who had to find a way to survive. As we learn, the early settlers banded together and formed a new society in this frigid and dangerous land. Now, the Lukos have a deep sense of community, helping one another survive and coming together to celebrate and share rituals. The land is so unforgiving that everyone is snowed in for most of winter, which means preparations are key and only the strongest survive.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
June 18, 2022
The world building for the island and the Lukoi people was quite good. The romance between dreamer-loner Victor and big-buff-heart-broken Sava wasn't insta but there really wasn't any credible obstacle to their getting together once they got snowed in for the ferocious Lukoi winter. I have to admit all the dom/sub references (mild as they were) didn't add to my enjoyment levels and I foresaw the 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
Read
January 15, 2022Sheesh! I wrote my review and saved it. Second guessed, edited and saved again. Third guessed, edited and saved again.
Now I’m back once more, deleting the whole thing. I’ll just say I was lukewarm with the story and when I finished the book I learned Iris Foxglove is Avon Gale and Fae Loxley.
I won’t continue the series.
Now I’m back once more, deleting the whole thing. I’ll just say I was lukewarm with the story and when I finished the book I learned Iris Foxglove is Avon Gale and Fae Loxley.
I won’t continue the series.
January 15, 2022
*3.5 stars*
this was very sweet and comforting. it has a few drawbacks but nothing that's too annoying. i'm looking forward to the second book!
this was very sweet and comforting. it has a few drawbacks but nothing that's too annoying. i'm looking forward to the second book!
January 15, 2022
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2022/01/15/...
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
Rating: 4.5 Stars – perfection is only half a step away
December 15, 2021
This was an incredible addition to the world they've been creating. All the little pieces about the other cultures come together, wrapped I'm ice, snow, and a long winter. Of course this book contains spicy scenes, well developed characters, the foundation for a new society and develop ideas from the other books and short stories. I loved it. I devoured it. I am excited to read more, as always. 5 stars.
December 28, 2025
3.75 stars
This was a sweet little story set in a fantasy world where people are naturally either dominant or submissive which is something I've only read once before (Oh, Sacred Dark by Marina Vivancos). This was a new to me author and I enjoyed the writing - for a lot of people I think this would be a nice read. Unfortunately it strongly features some of my nopes, but it's a personal thing and not a reflection on the story or writing.
The story opens with Victor being in love with a man who the readers can tell is a total dick but it takes Victor a little longer to get there. His "love" basically ships him off to an inhospitable and isolated island in order to avoid scandal for himself. Victor is a scholar who knows some of the language of the people who inhabit said island but he is not prepared for the harsh winter approaching. I enjoyed Victor for the most part. His blindness surrounding his ex, David, made me want to shake him at first but I do love a messy MC and he was kind of a stereotypical endearingly clumsy nerd and he grew on me.
Sava was a stoic, competent man who was lonely in the home he had built for a mate who was no longer alive to share it with. I knew from the blurb that Sava's lover died before the events of the book and dead lovers is a trope I normally avoid. I don't think I realized how recently the death occurred - in my head I thought maybe this was an age gap and Sava was older and it had been some time since the death. But in actuality he was similar in age to Victor and his love had died in the spring (book takes place over winter). That's on me for attempting to read something that I know doesn't work for me - absolutely no fault of the author's. In fact I thought the author did an excellent job of being respectful - not diminishing the love for the deceased but also not overshadowing the MCs connection. Unfortunately it was just still too much for me. Between Victor talking about David and Sava talking about Milan it almost felt like there were four MCs (at the very least 3 because Milan truly was a big part of the story) and I couldn't handle it.
I was also slightly puzzled about the world building surrounding the dominant/submissive thing. It was barely used at all and I felt strongly like it could've not been there and not a single thing would have changed about the story. There was a little bit here and there but it was mostly reinforcing some sort of patriarchal/heteronormative ideas about roles (submissives keep the home and dominants provide, that sort of thing). If this had been omegaverse I think I could have accepted it but without slick and mpreg I'm not sure I see the point in effectively making the MCs an alpha and omega unless it had to do with the sexual dynamic - which it really didn't.
The sex was a bit underwhelming. The scenes themselves (besides a single one near the end) were not plentiful and were mostly brief and not very explicit. Not a big deal but, again, the whole dominant/submissive thing seemed a bit pointless if it wasn't at least going to be used here. Other than that single scene near the end (which was decent), the only part of their dynamic this seemed to effect was the strict top/bottom roles.
The villain/conflict was a bit OTT but I didn't mind it too much - I will always appreciate stories where there isn't a ton of angst between the MCs, but rather the conflict is largely external.
While a lot didn't work for me, there were still lots of enjoyable moments. I really liked the scenes where Sava showed Victor different parts of the land and the culture. I liked the domestic scenes of them inside the house trying to make it through the bad weather. There's a plot point where Victor insists that they rescue an abandoned snow cat and who doesn't love the joys of raising a wild kitten? Sava helping Victor see his worth again after shitty David was lovely. Victor helping Sava see that he is a good mate after Milan was lovely.
If this book didn't feature so much previous lover baggage, I think I would've really liked it but with all of that it was tricky for me. I am interested in trying something else from this author that might fit better for me.
Pet names: little owl
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None.
Other person drama: At the start of the story Victor is in love with a man who betrays him but Victor thinks about him a lot - both romantically (at first) and later in resentment, but either way he's a large part of Victor's story. Sava is mourning the loss of his would-be mate (died before they were mated). He still loves Milan and, again, that character plays an important part of Sava's story and the overall story. It was too much for me. I know most people won't be put off because it's in the past for both men but it's simply not for me to have so much interaction or thoughts about previous loves (that weren't even that far in the past). There's also a brief mention of Sava having hooked up with other Lukoi and there's another character who is interested in Sava but nothing happens with them.
This was a sweet little story set in a fantasy world where people are naturally either dominant or submissive which is something I've only read once before (Oh, Sacred Dark by Marina Vivancos). This was a new to me author and I enjoyed the writing - for a lot of people I think this would be a nice read. Unfortunately it strongly features some of my nopes, but it's a personal thing and not a reflection on the story or writing.
The story opens with Victor being in love with a man who the readers can tell is a total dick but it takes Victor a little longer to get there. His "love" basically ships him off to an inhospitable and isolated island in order to avoid scandal for himself. Victor is a scholar who knows some of the language of the people who inhabit said island but he is not prepared for the harsh winter approaching. I enjoyed Victor for the most part. His blindness surrounding his ex, David, made me want to shake him at first but I do love a messy MC and he was kind of a stereotypical endearingly clumsy nerd and he grew on me.
Sava was a stoic, competent man who was lonely in the home he had built for a mate who was no longer alive to share it with. I knew from the blurb that Sava's lover died before the events of the book and dead lovers is a trope I normally avoid. I don't think I realized how recently the death occurred - in my head I thought maybe this was an age gap and Sava was older and it had been some time since the death. But in actuality he was similar in age to Victor and his love had died in the spring (book takes place over winter). That's on me for attempting to read something that I know doesn't work for me - absolutely no fault of the author's. In fact I thought the author did an excellent job of being respectful - not diminishing the love for the deceased but also not overshadowing the MCs connection. Unfortunately it was just still too much for me. Between Victor talking about David and Sava talking about Milan it almost felt like there were four MCs (at the very least 3 because Milan truly was a big part of the story) and I couldn't handle it.
I was also slightly puzzled about the world building surrounding the dominant/submissive thing. It was barely used at all and I felt strongly like it could've not been there and not a single thing would have changed about the story. There was a little bit here and there but it was mostly reinforcing some sort of patriarchal/heteronormative ideas about roles (submissives keep the home and dominants provide, that sort of thing). If this had been omegaverse I think I could have accepted it but without slick and mpreg I'm not sure I see the point in effectively making the MCs an alpha and omega unless it had to do with the sexual dynamic - which it really didn't.
The sex was a bit underwhelming. The scenes themselves (besides a single one near the end) were not plentiful and were mostly brief and not very explicit. Not a big deal but, again, the whole dominant/submissive thing seemed a bit pointless if it wasn't at least going to be used here. Other than that single scene near the end (which was decent), the only part of their dynamic this seemed to effect was the strict top/bottom roles.
The villain/conflict was a bit OTT but I didn't mind it too much - I will always appreciate stories where there isn't a ton of angst between the MCs, but rather the conflict is largely external.
While a lot didn't work for me, there were still lots of enjoyable moments. I really liked the scenes where Sava showed Victor different parts of the land and the culture. I liked the domestic scenes of them inside the house trying to make it through the bad weather. There's a plot point where Victor insists that they rescue an abandoned snow cat and who doesn't love the joys of raising a wild kitten? Sava helping Victor see his worth again after shitty David was lovely. Victor helping Sava see that he is a good mate after Milan was lovely.
If this book didn't feature so much previous lover baggage, I think I would've really liked it but with all of that it was tricky for me. I am interested in trying something else from this author that might fit better for me.
Pet names: little owl
“What? Did something hurt you? Did your ankle twist, one of those times you nearly tripped?” Victor shook his head. “No.” His voice sounded strange, a mix of tears and anger. “I think I finally saw the forest, that’s all.” At Sava’s expression, he shrugged and wrapped his arms around himself. “And I’d rather keep looking at the trees.”
“Your people are survivors,” Victor said, after a moment. “I’m just someone no one wanted.”
“You forgot how valuable you are, little owl, but you can learn again.” “Fuck,” Victor whispered. “You are clever and beautiful, and a worthy submissive. This man, he did not deserve you.” Victor tried to shy away, and Sava turned his cheek again. “Do you know me to be a liar?” “No.” “Then know I am telling the truth,” Sava said. “And I will tell you again, if you need it.”
I’d stay even if I didn’t love Lukos,” he said, and knew, in that moment, that it was true. “Because you’re here.” Sava reached for him, and Victor kissed him again, brushing the hot tears from Sava’s cheeks. “Birds have to find a place to roost sometime,” Victor said. “Even odd owls like me.”
“I want to tie you down and make you beg for me, show you that you’re mine.”
“I’m all yours. Take me any way you want. Make me fall apart for you.”
*
*
*
*
*
Safety (may contain spoilers)
SA/rape: None.
Other person drama: At the start of the story Victor is in love with a man who betrays him but Victor thinks about him a lot - both romantically (at first) and later in resentment, but either way he's a large part of Victor's story. Sava is mourning the loss of his would-be mate (died before they were mated). He still loves Milan and, again, that character plays an important part of Sava's story and the overall story. It was too much for me. I know most people won't be put off because it's in the past for both men but it's simply not for me to have so much interaction or thoughts about previous loves (that weren't even that far in the past). There's also a brief mention of Sava having hooked up with other Lukoi and there's another character who is interested in Sava but nothing happens with them.
January 10, 2026
3.5⭐️
I enjoyed this. The world building was really interesting and well done, and the characters had convincing backstories.
Victor was a bit naïve and slow on the uptake when it came to David and the way he had been treated. Sava had been through a tragedy and was grieving his lost mate. I was a little surprised and disappointed in Ivan because he was instantly likeable when he’s first introduced.
I didn’t like the transition to mates between Sava and Victor. It happened way too quickly, and their reactions to it felt underwhelming. That was Sava’s first kiss; you’re telling me that wouldn’t create some sort of reaction? It also didn’t feel authentic to Sava’s character; Victor maybe, but not this stoic guy who deliberately waited three winters before wanting to mate Milan, then doesn’t even last two weeks with a stranger. One could argue he’d learned a lesson, and I’d agree if that had been discussed, but it was completely brushed over with a one-liner about losing control.
Other than that, though, I enjoyed the development of the story. The rest of the pacing was okay. The forced proximity and drama with Ivan was enjoyable. The other characters added to the story and didn’t overshadow the two main characters, and the epilogue closed the story very well.
I’m intrigued about the next book. I’m glad it’s about Dragan.
I enjoyed this. The world building was really interesting and well done, and the characters had convincing backstories.
Victor was a bit naïve and slow on the uptake when it came to David and the way he had been treated. Sava had been through a tragedy and was grieving his lost mate. I was a little surprised and disappointed in Ivan because he was instantly likeable when he’s first introduced.
I didn’t like the transition to mates between Sava and Victor. It happened way too quickly, and their reactions to it felt underwhelming. That was Sava’s first kiss; you’re telling me that wouldn’t create some sort of reaction? It also didn’t feel authentic to Sava’s character; Victor maybe, but not this stoic guy who deliberately waited three winters before wanting to mate Milan, then doesn’t even last two weeks with a stranger. One could argue he’d learned a lesson, and I’d agree if that had been discussed, but it was completely brushed over with a one-liner about losing control.
Other than that, though, I enjoyed the development of the story. The rest of the pacing was okay. The forced proximity and drama with Ivan was enjoyable. The other characters added to the story and didn’t overshadow the two main characters, and the epilogue closed the story very well.
I’m intrigued about the next book. I’m glad it’s about Dragan.
December 26, 2021
3.5
While enjoyable enough I was expecting this book to be as exciting as the Starian Cycle series. I do think I’ll read the next one. It’ll depend on book 2 if I finish the series or not. I’ve seen other reviews stating 3&4 will be MMF and it’s not usually my thing (I try to stick with MM) I’m willing to give them a shot if book 2 is good.
The plot was very easy to figure out. Including the villain.
There were also a lot of similarities between Lukos and Ergh from The Barbarian Duet by Keira Andrews. Not plagiarism in the least but SUPER noticeable anyway.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
While enjoyable enough I was expecting this book to be as exciting as the Starian Cycle series. I do think I’ll read the next one. It’ll depend on book 2 if I finish the series or not. I’ve seen other reviews stating 3&4 will be MMF and it’s not usually my thing (I try to stick with MM) I’m willing to give them a shot if book 2 is good.
The plot was very easy to figure out. Including the villain.
There were also a lot of similarities between Lukos and Ergh from The Barbarian Duet by Keira Andrews. Not plagiarism in the least but SUPER noticeable anyway.
I received a copy of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
March 7, 2022
ALL the stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐!
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