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The Shadow Bound Queen #1
Court of Ravens and Ruin
A defiant human woman. A dark fae Prince. Two enemies bound to a marriage that could destroy their world.
Reyna was born a valuable slave to the Gold Court, imprisoned her whole life in a glittering palace by sadistic, greedy fae.
When the palace is raided, she takes her opportunity to escape. But the raid is led by her worst nightmare. The Prince of the most feared fae of all; the Shadow Court. And he wants one thing.
Her. The copper-haired, rune-marked human.
Reyna doesn’t know why the Prince has kidnapped her. But when he announces her as his betrothed, she knows that she must escape before she is eternally bound to the monster behind the mask.
Only, when he takes the mask off, he isn’t what she expects. He’s lethal, beautiful and exudes sin. And he needs her.
Drawn into a deadly world shrouded in secrets, and desperate to keep her own hidden, Reyna must find a way out. If she doesn’t, she risks more than just death. She risks giving everything to her intoxicating captor.
This is the first book in the Shadow Bound Queen series, and is inspired by Norse mythology and Vikings. Sexy fae Vikings. It has Hades and Persephone, Beauty and the Beast vibes, and is slow-burn enemies to lovers fantasy romance with a burn-the-world-down-for-her hero. The series builds in steam and is filled with magic, myth, and delicious tension.
Brides of Mist and Fae is a brand new world from Eliza Raine, unconnected to the Dark Gods of Olympus.
Reyna was born a valuable slave to the Gold Court, imprisoned her whole life in a glittering palace by sadistic, greedy fae.
When the palace is raided, she takes her opportunity to escape. But the raid is led by her worst nightmare. The Prince of the most feared fae of all; the Shadow Court. And he wants one thing.
Her. The copper-haired, rune-marked human.
Reyna doesn’t know why the Prince has kidnapped her. But when he announces her as his betrothed, she knows that she must escape before she is eternally bound to the monster behind the mask.
Only, when he takes the mask off, he isn’t what she expects. He’s lethal, beautiful and exudes sin. And he needs her.
Drawn into a deadly world shrouded in secrets, and desperate to keep her own hidden, Reyna must find a way out. If she doesn’t, she risks more than just death. She risks giving everything to her intoxicating captor.
This is the first book in the Shadow Bound Queen series, and is inspired by Norse mythology and Vikings. Sexy fae Vikings. It has Hades and Persephone, Beauty and the Beast vibes, and is slow-burn enemies to lovers fantasy romance with a burn-the-world-down-for-her hero. The series builds in steam and is filled with magic, myth, and delicious tension.
Brides of Mist and Fae is a brand new world from Eliza Raine, unconnected to the Dark Gods of Olympus.
296 pages, Hardcover
First published October 4, 2022
8355 people are currently reading
92589 people want to read
About the author
Eliza Raine
42 books2,399 followersEliza Raine writes Greek mythology inspired fantasy that is fast paced, full of new worlds and creatures and sprinkled with a healthy dose of romance. She lives near Reading in England with her husband, three cats and outrageously cute puppy. She has a BA Hons in History and has a deep-rooted passion for mythology and stories about women who don't need rescuing.
She can usually be found reading fairytale retellings, playing board games or binge-watching Netflix shows.
You can read some of Eliza's stories for free by visiting her website at www.elizaraine.com
She can usually be found reading fairytale retellings, playing board games or binge-watching Netflix shows.
You can read some of Eliza's stories for free by visiting her website at www.elizaraine.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,704 reviews
October 20, 2022
Heroine is another generic argumentative moron
Hero needs anger management or therapy. He's not even a "possessive alphahole" he's just rude
I found it hard to care about the plot since the main and side characters were so bad
Hero needs anger management or therapy. He's not even a "possessive alphahole" he's just rude
I found it hard to care about the plot since the main and side characters were so bad
November 28, 2022
Blurb stated defiant human woman, dark fae Prince….I am like hell yes..there are 2 types of defiant women first is the one who is defiant, but knows how to work the system to her advantage and to get out of her own way….second is defiant=petulant child, who is a constant roadblock to one’s self…Reyna FMC is the second one. First few chapters Reyna was portrayed as the first, and felt like she was a 20+ something who had some survival skills as she was in the verge of escaping her enslavement with the gold court..for her to be raised there and managed to stay off the radar for so long implied she was smart and crafty…however once she is kidnapped…she literally loses brain cells and falls fully in the TSTL category..shows zero survival skills…feels like she was totally sheltered in the gold court…but she wanted to escape that and go where? by her own descriptions no where was safe for her..age of this FMC was hard to pin down…so instances it’s implied that she is in the 20 year old range but some her wording and actions portray at much younger 16 or 17 being generous with aging….spicy level in this book is just about 1 by my standards. Oh and my favorite lots of unnecessary drama…but then again there would not be half a book. By the end absolutely hated Reyna and her lofty ideals and double standards
November 18, 2022
Jeez, another YA story where nearly all the action involves the heroine being contrary to every blessed thing. How insanely boring AF.
November 15, 2022
Story barely starts before the book ends.
Heroine thinks being rude and argumentative makes her strong.
Heroine thinks being rude and argumentative makes her strong.
December 27, 2022
where do i begin….this book was not enjoyable. like at all.
“where have you been”
“your husband’s place”
Cringe.
“my lips almost twitched into a defiant smile”
cringe x2. are we supposed to be seeing that she’s so badass and so defiant and doesn’t obey? She gives off the energy of a petulant child. And there were so many of these sort of things.
“i am a fully grown male which you would find out on entering my bedchamber”
GODDDDD, cringe.
There are so many other lines in this book that are so cringy. The attraction also felt extremely off and very forced. I don’t want to get too into it but yeah, definitely not reading the next one.
“where have you been”
“your husband’s place”
Cringe.
“my lips almost twitched into a defiant smile”
cringe x2. are we supposed to be seeing that she’s so badass and so defiant and doesn’t obey? She gives off the energy of a petulant child. And there were so many of these sort of things.
“i am a fully grown male which you would find out on entering my bedchamber”
GODDDDD, cringe.
There are so many other lines in this book that are so cringy. The attraction also felt extremely off and very forced. I don’t want to get too into it but yeah, definitely not reading the next one.
October 28, 2022
So, I'll start with the positive. I really was intrigued by the world created by this author. Enough so that I MIGHT give the second bock a chance, just for the world created. The negatives: swearing and a REALLY REALLY unlikable protagonist.
If there's one thing I hate in fantasy books it's EXCESSIVE swearing. (I mean I dislike it in most, but especially in fantasy.) The characters pretty much were swearing every fifth page (and that might be being too generous.)
1) Create your own word. This whole book was based of Norse history so the author could have easily found a word from that language to use. 2) Use swearing sporadically to really give the swear emphasis on just how screwed the character is. But 3) and more importantly swearing is a sign of weak writing to me. If you can't portray the characters emotion without them swearing then the writing could have been stronger.
As to the main character...there is nothing likable about her. I get her attitude at the start, but she is pigheaded and refuses to grow or change or see what's right in front of her. And her attitude just wore me down and made me dislike her and not want to invest anything in her. If she's been killed off I would have just been like ok, whatever. And when you don't like a character it's really hard to love a story. I just feel she should have displayed more growth from start to end in this book and we saw none. She was basically the same character at the end of the book as she was at the beginning and I expect a character to grow.
If there's one thing I hate in fantasy books it's EXCESSIVE swearing. (I mean I dislike it in most, but especially in fantasy.) The characters pretty much were swearing every fifth page (and that might be being too generous.)
1) Create your own word. This whole book was based of Norse history so the author could have easily found a word from that language to use. 2) Use swearing sporadically to really give the swear emphasis on just how screwed the character is. But 3) and more importantly swearing is a sign of weak writing to me. If you can't portray the characters emotion without them swearing then the writing could have been stronger.
As to the main character...there is nothing likable about her. I get her attitude at the start, but she is pigheaded and refuses to grow or change or see what's right in front of her. And her attitude just wore me down and made me dislike her and not want to invest anything in her. If she's been killed off I would have just been like ok, whatever. And when you don't like a character it's really hard to love a story. I just feel she should have displayed more growth from start to end in this book and we saw none. She was basically the same character at the end of the book as she was at the beginning and I expect a character to grow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2023
Read this a few days ago and I barely remember anything about it...
I know I enjoyed it and there was a major cliffhanger. That's it.
I know I enjoyed it and there was a major cliffhanger. That's it.
April 30, 2023
I was swayed by the beautiful cover and intriguing synopsis, so I dived right in without reading any reviews.
The protagonist is one of the weakest I've encountered, but I'm intrigued by the mysterious dark prince so I'll continue the series.
⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult
∘ Fantasy Romance
∘ Norse Mythology
∘ Vikings
∘ Royalty & Fae
∘ Court Politics & Dark Secrets
∘ Familiars
∘ Found Family
∘ Dark Fae Prince x Human Slave
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Chosen One
∘ Forced Proximity
⇢ Trigger Warnings: violence & gore, cannibalism, blood
Court of Ravens and Ruin is the first book in a NA romantasy series inspired by Norse Mythology.
⤏ Summary
Reyna possesses the rare gift of manipulating and crafting gold, making her a valuable asset in the Gold Court where she has lived as a slave for her entire existence without any recollection of her past.
When she is forced to become the concubine of a cruel lord, Reyna decides to flee but her plans are foiled when the dark Prince of Snakes launches an attack on the Gold Court and abducts her.
Reyna is taken aback when the dark Prince of Snakes declares her as his betrothed and claims that he needs her for some unknown reason. What possible need could a shadow-fae have for a human gold-giver like her?
⤏ Plot
The book's main focus is on the mystery that shrouds everything, including the intricate relationship between the two main characters.
Mazrith requires Reyna's unique abilities for a hidden purpose, but he withholds crucial details from her because he does not trust her. The story becomes a thrilling game of secrets and deception, with both characters keeping crucial information from the other and neither of them fully trusting the other.
As the story unfolds, the tension between them builds as they both struggle to navigate their complicated bond. The narrative turns into a thrilling game of secrets and deception.
⤏ Writing
Although I found it easy to get into the book, I can't help but feel like it's lacking something, especially when it comes to the dialogue. The way the main character speaks is awkward and and some of her attempts at witty comebacks fall flat and made me cringe.
⤏ Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding in this book is well-crafted, and I liked the description of the castle and city. I was intrigued by the idea of the gold-giver and the Fae's use of magic through their staff. Additionally, the incorporation of Norse mythology into the Fae lore was an interesting twist. It has piqued my interest and I would love to read more books that explore the concept of Viking Fae.
⤏ Characters
∘ Reyna
After starting the book, I read several reviews that echoed my thoughts – she's portrayed as dumb, childish, and annoying. While it's not uncommon for characters to display youthful behavior, it becomes a problem when it's constant and not tempered by maturity.
The summary portrays the protagonist as a "defiant human" and she's even praised for her bravery by some characters. However, in reality, she isn't, making stupid decisions that often put herself and others in danger.
To be brave and to be reckless are two different things.
∘ Maz
Mazrith is the mysterious dark shadow-fae prince with an unknown mission. He's known to be the worst of the worst, the embodiment of evil, a ruthless and merciless fae who instills fear in the hearts of many. While these rumors may hold some truth, Mazrith also displays acts of kindness, honor, and respect. Granted, he makes some questionable choices, but everyone makes mistakes, right? He's this closed-off, intriguing character and the only reason I'll continue this series.
⤏ Romance
It was clear from the beginning that this would be a slowburn enemies-to-lovers. The sexual tension between them is palpable, yet they resist each other due to the many secrets and lies between them.
However, Maz makes an effort to be civil with Reyna and shows signs that he cares about her, but she doesn't back down even a little. While I typically appreciate this trait in a protagonist, in this case, it seems unwarranted.
⤏ Conclusion
I'd recommend this book if you are looking for an easy to read, fast-paced romantasy book with fae and that has an enemies-to-lovers trope. I personally was let down by it as I expected more from our protagonist.
The protagonist is one of the weakest I've encountered, but I'm intrigued by the mysterious dark prince so I'll continue the series.
⇢ What to expect:
∘ New Adult
∘ Fantasy Romance
∘ Norse Mythology
∘ Vikings
∘ Royalty & Fae
∘ Court Politics & Dark Secrets
∘ Familiars
∘ Found Family
∘ Dark Fae Prince x Human Slave
⇢ Tropes:
∘ Enemies to Lovers
∘ Slowburn
∘ Chosen One
∘ Forced Proximity
⇢ Trigger Warnings: violence & gore, cannibalism, blood
Court of Ravens and Ruin is the first book in a NA romantasy series inspired by Norse Mythology.
⤏ Summary
Reyna possesses the rare gift of manipulating and crafting gold, making her a valuable asset in the Gold Court where she has lived as a slave for her entire existence without any recollection of her past.
When she is forced to become the concubine of a cruel lord, Reyna decides to flee but her plans are foiled when the dark Prince of Snakes launches an attack on the Gold Court and abducts her.
Reyna is taken aback when the dark Prince of Snakes declares her as his betrothed and claims that he needs her for some unknown reason. What possible need could a shadow-fae have for a human gold-giver like her?
⤏ Plot
The book's main focus is on the mystery that shrouds everything, including the intricate relationship between the two main characters.
Mazrith requires Reyna's unique abilities for a hidden purpose, but he withholds crucial details from her because he does not trust her. The story becomes a thrilling game of secrets and deception, with both characters keeping crucial information from the other and neither of them fully trusting the other.
As the story unfolds, the tension between them builds as they both struggle to navigate their complicated bond. The narrative turns into a thrilling game of secrets and deception.
⤏ Writing
Although I found it easy to get into the book, I can't help but feel like it's lacking something, especially when it comes to the dialogue. The way the main character speaks is awkward and and some of her attempts at witty comebacks fall flat and made me cringe.
⤏ Worldbuilding
The worldbuilding in this book is well-crafted, and I liked the description of the castle and city. I was intrigued by the idea of the gold-giver and the Fae's use of magic through their staff. Additionally, the incorporation of Norse mythology into the Fae lore was an interesting twist. It has piqued my interest and I would love to read more books that explore the concept of Viking Fae.
⤏ Characters
∘ Reyna
After starting the book, I read several reviews that echoed my thoughts – she's portrayed as dumb, childish, and annoying. While it's not uncommon for characters to display youthful behavior, it becomes a problem when it's constant and not tempered by maturity.
The summary portrays the protagonist as a "defiant human" and she's even praised for her bravery by some characters. However, in reality, she isn't, making stupid decisions that often put herself and others in danger.
To be brave and to be reckless are two different things.
∘ Maz
Mazrith is the mysterious dark shadow-fae prince with an unknown mission. He's known to be the worst of the worst, the embodiment of evil, a ruthless and merciless fae who instills fear in the hearts of many. While these rumors may hold some truth, Mazrith also displays acts of kindness, honor, and respect. Granted, he makes some questionable choices, but everyone makes mistakes, right? He's this closed-off, intriguing character and the only reason I'll continue this series.
⤏ Romance
It was clear from the beginning that this would be a slowburn enemies-to-lovers. The sexual tension between them is palpable, yet they resist each other due to the many secrets and lies between them.
However, Maz makes an effort to be civil with Reyna and shows signs that he cares about her, but she doesn't back down even a little. While I typically appreciate this trait in a protagonist, in this case, it seems unwarranted.
⤏ Conclusion
I'd recommend this book if you are looking for an easy to read, fast-paced romantasy book with fae and that has an enemies-to-lovers trope. I personally was let down by it as I expected more from our protagonist.
March 24, 2024
Read this as a buddy read with a friend and where do I even start?
Did this book have an editor? It feels like it needed a lot of work to actually be considered finished. There was so much repetition, circular dialogues, flat characters and weak plotlines. I felt like I kept reading the same scenes over and over again and then all the plot happened in the last 20 pages. The author also kept hitting the readers over the head trying to let us know that the main character was sooooo ✨special✨ and the love interest so edgy and misunderstood. We get it oh my god!! The main characters had no characterisation at all, and Reyna had only one personality trait: doing and saying the exakt opposite of what everyone tells her to do and nothing else. It’s bad when literally every character she meets keeps saying she’s annoying and stupid and I can’t do anything but agree. Very unsubtle writing as well, everything is spelled out and don’t forget the extra swear words for emphasis that just felt cringe. The rimance didn’t work at all either lmao.
Take a shot everytime:
- something is describes as being decorated with skulls
- reyna wonders ”why me?”
- someone snarls or barks
- someone calls Reyna stupid
Any single one of these will give you alcohol poisoning
Did this book have an editor? It feels like it needed a lot of work to actually be considered finished. There was so much repetition, circular dialogues, flat characters and weak plotlines. I felt like I kept reading the same scenes over and over again and then all the plot happened in the last 20 pages. The author also kept hitting the readers over the head trying to let us know that the main character was sooooo ✨special✨ and the love interest so edgy and misunderstood. We get it oh my god!! The main characters had no characterisation at all, and Reyna had only one personality trait: doing and saying the exakt opposite of what everyone tells her to do and nothing else. It’s bad when literally every character she meets keeps saying she’s annoying and stupid and I can’t do anything but agree. Very unsubtle writing as well, everything is spelled out and don’t forget the extra swear words for emphasis that just felt cringe. The rimance didn’t work at all either lmao.
Take a shot everytime:
- something is describes as being decorated with skulls
- reyna wonders ”why me?”
- someone snarls or barks
- someone calls Reyna stupid
Any single one of these will give you alcohol poisoning
![Profile Image for Jessi ❤️ H. Vojsk [if villain, why hot?].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1746468325i%2F66224803._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 27, 2023
I had such high expectations, so I’m a bit disappointed.
Reyna was so annoying with her constant arguing.
I mean - yes, she was kidnapped by the prince.
But he was treating her with respect (he was handsome), he protected her (he was also handsome) and so much more. Oh, and he was handsome, hot, a real looker.
She got a better life and she all she needed to do was play her role.
I’m sure I would be acting differently, but who knows.
All in all this was a little a bit entertaining, but nothing groundbreaking.
Reyna was so annoying with her constant arguing.
I mean - yes, she was kidnapped by the prince.
But he was treating her with respect (he was handsome), he protected her (he was also handsome) and so much more. Oh, and he was handsome, hot, a real looker.
She got a better life and she all she needed to do was play her role.
I’m sure I would be acting differently, but who knows.
All in all this was a little a bit entertaining, but nothing groundbreaking.
April 11, 2023
It was fine but pretty average and forgettable.
December 6, 2022
The elements of a better story are buried in this book. As it is, it felt way too short, and as a result, a bit pointless.
I don’t think this review will contain any spoilers because, despite having finished this book, I still don’t really know what is going on.
The FMC, Reyna, sometimes seemed to have an instinct for self-preservation. Her interior monologue hinted at intelligence and the means for survival. Unfortunately, she almost always ignored that voice. Instead she was petulant and stupid at every opportunity. Otherwise, we didn’t learn much about her other than she had red hair and could sense magic in gold.
The MMC, Maz, was…never sexy. It felt like he was barely in the story, and when he did show up, he had no redeeming qualities other than being hot? He was cruel and menacing and withheld any morsel of helpful information. Any time Reyna asked him anything meaningful (which was, admittedly, rare) he just growled some version of “shut up” and stalked away. There was one scene where attraction between Reyna and Maz was described but it felt perfunctory and hollow.
There are some side characters. That’s about all that can be said about them. They are fairly two-dimensional and don’t add much to the plot.
By the end of the book, we still know basically nothing about the central mysteries. The cliffhanger felt meaningless because we know nothing, we don’t care about the supposed romance, and the stakes seem low aside from “people will die if we don’t solve this.” But even there…we don’t really know what the mystery even is.
I liked the ravens and skulls and the overall vibe of the Shadow Court. The Yggdrasil setting was unique. The magic system has potential.
I think this book needed to be about three times as long. With thorough editing I think I can see an interesting story here, but as it stands, I’m not sure I care to read the next book in the series.
I don’t think this review will contain any spoilers because, despite having finished this book, I still don’t really know what is going on.
The FMC, Reyna, sometimes seemed to have an instinct for self-preservation. Her interior monologue hinted at intelligence and the means for survival. Unfortunately, she almost always ignored that voice. Instead she was petulant and stupid at every opportunity. Otherwise, we didn’t learn much about her other than she had red hair and could sense magic in gold.
The MMC, Maz, was…never sexy. It felt like he was barely in the story, and when he did show up, he had no redeeming qualities other than being hot? He was cruel and menacing and withheld any morsel of helpful information. Any time Reyna asked him anything meaningful (which was, admittedly, rare) he just growled some version of “shut up” and stalked away. There was one scene where attraction between Reyna and Maz was described but it felt perfunctory and hollow.
There are some side characters. That’s about all that can be said about them. They are fairly two-dimensional and don’t add much to the plot.
By the end of the book, we still know basically nothing about the central mysteries. The cliffhanger felt meaningless because we know nothing, we don’t care about the supposed romance, and the stakes seem low aside from “people will die if we don’t solve this.” But even there…we don’t really know what the mystery even is.
I liked the ravens and skulls and the overall vibe of the Shadow Court. The Yggdrasil setting was unique. The magic system has potential.
I think this book needed to be about three times as long. With thorough editing I think I can see an interesting story here, but as it stands, I’m not sure I care to read the next book in the series.
September 5, 2023
Ok, wow! I decided to read this book on a whim. I've been having a really hard time getting into books lately and I saw this one and thought. WTH! Let's give it a shot. Boy, am I glad I did. This book was just so intriguing. It had everything. Dark fantasy setting, magic, fae, enemies to lovers romance beginning, and a life and death plot.
My favorite character is obviously Voror. I mean first of all a talking owl? Yes, please. Plus he's just so sassy. I love his confidence and attitude lol. Reyna, our MC, is a little too defiant for someone who is supposed to have been a slave for so long. But other than that she's alright. I want to love the prince. I think all the elements are there, but so far we haven't really gotten to know him much and so it leaves me wanting. I'm hoping the upcoming books with solve some of that.
They got the horror part down pretty well. I mean giant snakes, shadows that can search your mind. And the Starved Ones are downright horrifying. I'm going to dive into book 2 right away!!
My favorite character is obviously Voror. I mean first of all a talking owl? Yes, please. Plus he's just so sassy. I love his confidence and attitude lol. Reyna, our MC, is a little too defiant for someone who is supposed to have been a slave for so long. But other than that she's alright. I want to love the prince. I think all the elements are there, but so far we haven't really gotten to know him much and so it leaves me wanting. I'm hoping the upcoming books with solve some of that.
They got the horror part down pretty well. I mean giant snakes, shadows that can search your mind. And the Starved Ones are downright horrifying. I'm going to dive into book 2 right away!!
October 4, 2022
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH! It’s no secret that I love Eliza Raine’s The Hades Trials….I rave about that series all the time. But this book…THIS BOOK! Def my new favorite book by Raine and one of my favorite reads this year. It has everything I want in a fantasy…unique magic system, Fae, royalty, enemies to lovers, chosen one, oh…and a dark and broody love interest 😎 I am absolutely dying for book two. I need it soooo badly 😭😭
I had the privilege of beta reading this earlier this summer and cannot wait for everyone else to fall in love with this book too!
I had the privilege of beta reading this earlier this summer and cannot wait for everyone else to fall in love with this book too!
January 29, 2023
I read books to escape, and unfortunately this book missed the mark. During most of the book I found myself hating the main character more than the villains. She almost seemed like she was against anything that would progress the storyline at all. I loved the plot but I just wish the main character was a little less childishly defiant and more bad ass cunning.
July 5, 2025
5/10
Тропи:
🌟скандинавська міфологія
🌟смертна у світі фейрі
🌟вимушені заручини
🌟політичні інтриги
🌟пророцтво
🌟«обрана», пов’язана з принцом фейрі
🌟від ворогів до закоханих
🌟пошук магічного артефакту
🌟slow burn
🌟чи все так, як здається?
🌟прихована істина
🌟сцена 18+
🌟закінчується кліфхенгером
Я поставила 5/10, і це було дуже великодушно з мого боку, бо ситуацію для мене врятувала тільки остання третина книжки.
🧐 Взагалі ідея поєднати світ фейрі зі скандинавською міфологією була дуже цікавою, але від вікінгів тут були тільки Іґґдрасіль і коси, а весь інший час здавалось, що ми в альтернативній версії Двору Ночі - з позбавленим харизми Внутрішнім Колом і дуже бісячою, мідноволосою (це важливо!) Фейрою.
🐸 Не варто очікувати тут дуже складного світоустрою, все досить просто і зрозуміло (для мене і мого фентезі-нечитуна це стало плюсом, але якби ця книжка трапилась зі мною в інший період мого читацького життя, це було б великим мінусом).
З плюсів:
⏺ зверхній пугач🦉з високим інтелектом;
⏺ невеликий обсяг книжки (288 сторінок);
⏺ цікаві останні 20-25% і кліфхенгер, який підштовхує взяти наступну частину (їх буде всього 4, нагадаю) і дізнатись, що там буде далі.
💀 Моєї експертної думки ніхто не питав, але я скажу, що якби ті події, які авторка вмістила у менш ніж 300 сторінок (прогнавшись по них галопом і зробивши з першої книжки фактично великий пролог до наступних частин серії), вона розтягнула хоча б на 500, прописавши і світ, і героїв, і стосунки між ними більш детально, мені б сподобалось значно більше.
Другу частину серії планую читати, а далі буде видно.
Тригери:
▫️рабство
▫️викрадення
▫️фізичне насилля, серйозне поранення
▫️контроль свідомості
▫️вбивство (замах на вбивство)
▫️кров та смерть
Тропи:
🌟скандинавська міфологія
🌟смертна у світі фейрі
🌟вимушені заручини
🌟політичні інтриги
🌟пророцтво
🌟«обрана», пов’язана з принцом фейрі
🌟від ворогів до закоханих
🌟пошук магічного артефакту
🌟slow burn
🌟чи все так, як здається?
🌟прихована істина
🌟сцена 18+
🌟закінчується кліфхенгером
Я поставила 5/10, і це було дуже великодушно з мого боку, бо ситуацію для мене врятувала тільки остання третина книжки.
🧐 Взагалі ідея поєднати світ фейрі зі скандинавською міфологією була дуже цікавою, але від вікінгів тут були тільки Іґґдрасіль і коси, а весь інший час здавалось, що ми в альтернативній версії Двору Ночі - з позбавленим харизми Внутрішнім Колом і дуже бісячою, мідноволосою (це важливо!) Фейрою.
🐸 Не варто очікувати тут дуже складного світоустрою, все досить просто і зрозуміло (для мене і мого фентезі-нечитуна це стало плюсом, але якби ця книжка трапилась зі мною в інший період мого читацького життя, це було б великим мінусом).
З плюсів:
⏺ зверхній пугач🦉з високим інтелектом;
⏺ невеликий обсяг книжки (288 сторінок);
⏺ цікаві останні 20-25% і кліфхенгер, який підштовхує взяти наступну частину (їх буде всього 4, нагадаю) і дізнатись, що там буде далі.
💀 Моєї експертної думки ніхто не питав, але я скажу, що якби ті події, які авторка вмістила у менш ніж 300 сторінок (прогнавшись по них галопом і зробивши з першої книжки фактично великий пролог до наступних частин серії), вона розтягнула хоча б на 500, прописавши і світ, і героїв, і стосунки між ними більш детально, мені б сподобалось значно більше.
Другу частину серії планую читати, а далі буде видно.
Тригери:
▫️рабство
▫️викрадення
▫️фізичне насилля, серйозне поранення
▫️контроль свідомості
▫️вбивство (замах на вбивство)
▫️кров та смерть
January 14, 2025
Why did I leave this on my shelf for so long???
Some things to expect inside:
* Norse Mythology inspired
* First person POV
* Unique magic system
* One horse
* Slow burn
* Touch her and ☠️
* .5/5 spice rating
Wow, that was a really fun time. It was a super easy book to get into. The world building was there and it was just enough without being overwhelming. The only issue I did have with the book is that there were times I had to reread a sentence multiple times to make sure it made sense, (sometimes they didn't) but I was here purely for the vibes, so I can forgive that. I do suggest reading trigger warnings before this. I didn't and was taken aback by some of the topics right in the beginning. But if you like a darker fantasy that has truer depictions of Fae, then I assume you know some things to expect.
The characters were really well written and for a book that is less than 300 pages that is extremely hard to do. Everyone's personalities are fleshed out and very distinct. Reyna is extremely stubborn to the point of wanting to rip my hair out, but truly, I can't really disagree with what she's doing throughout the book, I would probably do the same thing in her shoes. She is also extremely loyal and will do anything for her friends. She puts them first every step of the way.
Prince Maz is your typical Shadow Daddy that you see in plenty of books. I can't wait to read more about him and get to see what he is actually like. He doesn't show much emotion at all and he is very hard to read. I’m all here for a mysterious shadow prince.
We didn't get many answers at all in this book. In fact, i actually have way more questions than answers! So I'm hoping the next one will give us more! Speaking of book 2, I need it yesterday because what the heck was that cliffhanger about?!?!?
Some things to expect inside:
* Norse Mythology inspired
* First person POV
* Unique magic system
* One horse
* Slow burn
* Touch her and ☠️
* .5/5 spice rating
Wow, that was a really fun time. It was a super easy book to get into. The world building was there and it was just enough without being overwhelming. The only issue I did have with the book is that there were times I had to reread a sentence multiple times to make sure it made sense, (sometimes they didn't) but I was here purely for the vibes, so I can forgive that. I do suggest reading trigger warnings before this. I didn't and was taken aback by some of the topics right in the beginning. But if you like a darker fantasy that has truer depictions of Fae, then I assume you know some things to expect.
The characters were really well written and for a book that is less than 300 pages that is extremely hard to do. Everyone's personalities are fleshed out and very distinct. Reyna is extremely stubborn to the point of wanting to rip my hair out, but truly, I can't really disagree with what she's doing throughout the book, I would probably do the same thing in her shoes. She is also extremely loyal and will do anything for her friends. She puts them first every step of the way.
Prince Maz is your typical Shadow Daddy that you see in plenty of books. I can't wait to read more about him and get to see what he is actually like. He doesn't show much emotion at all and he is very hard to read. I’m all here for a mysterious shadow prince.
We didn't get many answers at all in this book. In fact, i actually have way more questions than answers! So I'm hoping the next one will give us more! Speaking of book 2, I need it yesterday because what the heck was that cliffhanger about?!?!?
March 4, 2024
Series as a whole: Enemies to lovers… fae… Norse mythology…. Different courts… trials… forced proximity… touch her and you die 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻
April 8, 2023
Just reread to read book 2 and dang I liked it even more the second time. Changed the stars from 4 to 5. That ending. Oof. So glad I get to go right to the next this time.
————————
I don’t know…4..4.5? It wasn’t anything groundbreaking but held my attention, hit the right trope buttons, didn’t piss me off and I was to read the next one…what more can I ask for when I’m reading a book every 2-3 days?
I am reeeeeeally over the whole Court of Blahbady and Blah naming scheme but that won’t stop me from picking another one up as my next read.
————————
I don’t know…4..4.5? It wasn’t anything groundbreaking but held my attention, hit the right trope buttons, didn’t piss me off and I was to read the next one…what more can I ask for when I’m reading a book every 2-3 days?
I am reeeeeeally over the whole Court of Blahbady and Blah naming scheme but that won’t stop me from picking another one up as my next read.
June 27, 2023
This is a fun, easy read. I think if it wasn't for the romance, I wouldn't continue it though. There just isn't really a good backbone to the story. There doesn't seem to be a lot of explanation for the world and the heroine constantly made her situation worse by just being dumb.
December 30, 2024
Не люблю такі фентезі: хтось, щось, комусь, чомусь. Погано прописані, неаргументовані, безглузді події у фанфіку, який неначе написаний підлітком.
Продовжувати не буду. З мене досить двох перших частин.
Один бал за дві книги 🙂
0,5/5
Продовжувати не буду. З мене досить двох перших частин.
Один бал за дві книги 🙂
0,5/5
June 6, 2023
2 “I’m ginger and proud” stars
Reyna’s defining characteristic is her hair. Take a shot every time it mentions her “shining, copper hair.” 57 times. I counted. You’re not making it out alive. I guess she’s the only person in the world with slightly reddish hair, and that just makes her oh-so special.
She’s just sooooo special. The author couldn’t have chosen any other color? Not that I like hair color being a defining characteristic, but she’s just a ginger? That’s it?
I also wasn’t a fan of the romance they had going on. As is a problem with many enemies-to-lovers books, they tried to make the protagonist defiant but she just comes off as annoying. Reyna should be scared shitless. Her friends’ lives are hanging in the balance. Any wrong move on her part could end in their death. Yet, she is constantly insulting everyone, talking back, and refusing everything they say even when it’s in her best interest. Surely she wasn’t like this in the Gold Court. Defiance for defiance’s sake, dying on every hill she comes across. This is especially prevalent with Mr. Prince Shadow Court.
This book also felt extremely derivative, like I’ve read it before. Copy-paste the tropes and bada-bing. I will say, I liked the owl. There’s that.
Reyna’s defining characteristic is her hair. Take a shot every time it mentions her “shining, copper hair.” 57 times. I counted. You’re not making it out alive. I guess she’s the only person in the world with slightly reddish hair, and that just makes her oh-so special.
I didn’t know … why I was the only human in the world who had copper colored hair.
For two decades, my hair had caused me nothing but grief. It made me different, made me stand out. It had made me a target, even within the enslaved human community.
There was no way the marks could be hidden. And even if they could, my copper hair drew attention like a flame to the moths.
“I always knew you were special,” Lhoris muttered.
“What?”
“Your hair. Your complete lack of past.”
She’s just sooooo special. The author couldn’t have chosen any other color? Not that I like hair color being a defining characteristic, but she’s just a ginger? That’s it?
I also wasn’t a fan of the romance they had going on. As is a problem with many enemies-to-lovers books, they tried to make the protagonist defiant but she just comes off as annoying. Reyna should be scared shitless. Her friends’ lives are hanging in the balance. Any wrong move on her part could end in their death. Yet, she is constantly insulting everyone, talking back, and refusing everything they say even when it’s in her best interest. Surely she wasn’t like this in the Gold Court. Defiance for defiance’s sake, dying on every hill she comes across. This is especially prevalent with Mr. Prince Shadow Court.
"Drink," said the Prince.
"What?"
"Drink the water from the pool."
"Why would I drink pool water from underneath a mountain, offered to me by a male who wants me dead?"
"I don't want you dead. You know I don't want you dead. We have been over this what seems like a hundred times.”
“Oh sure. You only want me dead after I've helped you with some secret task that you won't tell me about."
"I am trying to show you now. Fates help me, if you will not do anything you are told this will take a very long time. Time I do not have.”
"I have to drink the pool water?"
"If you want to leave this place alive with your friends, then yes. Drink the fucking water."
It tasted of nothing. Just… water.
This book also felt extremely derivative, like I’ve read it before. Copy-paste the tropes and bada-bing. I will say, I liked the owl. There’s that.
Read
February 21, 2023DNF @ 20%
There wasn’t anything wrong with what i read so far, i just didn’t really care so i’m not going to continue.
There wasn’t anything wrong with what i read so far, i just didn’t really care so i’m not going to continue.
August 12, 2025
Скандинавська міфологія і фейрі, незвично й інтригуюче.
Проте в нас тут знов Р̶і̶з̶е̶н̶д̶ жорстокий темний принц фейрі викрадає Ф̶е̶й̶р̶у̶ непокірну сміливу героїню в тіньовий Двір, але цього разу у кроні Іґґдрасіллю.
Тропи дещо набридлі - обрана, що поступово відкриває свою істинну природу, слоубьорн, від ворогів до коханців, таємничий головний герой, який не такий вже й монстр.
Написано непогано, і читається дуже легко, та й світоустрій доволі цікавий. Але сюжет рухається повільно, це перша частина з чотирьох, тому тут все тільки починається.
Окремий лайк за милого й мудрого пугача.
Проте в нас тут знов Р̶і̶з̶е̶н̶д̶ жорстокий темний принц фейрі викрадає Ф̶е̶й̶р̶у̶ непокірну сміливу героїню в тіньовий Двір, але цього разу у кроні Іґґдрасіллю.
Тропи дещо набридлі - обрана, що поступово відкриває свою істинну природу, слоубьорн, від ворогів до коханців, таємничий головний герой, який не такий вже й монстр.
Написано непогано, і читається дуже легко, та й світоустрій доволі цікавий. Але сюжет рухається повільно, це перша частина з чотирьох, тому тут все тільки починається.
Окремий лайк за милого й мудрого пугача.
October 8, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶🌶/5
This book was a fast and easy read that kept you entertained.
It focuses on a gold rune marked human that is kidnapped by the Prince of Shadows who is a fae. She goes through multiple events while trying to save herself and her friends Ina court of death and fear.
Pros:
-fast paced
-easy read
-some spicy
-potential for a riveting story and multiple sequels
-morally grey characters
-enemies to potential lovers?
-no instant love of Stockholm syndrome
Cons:
-cliffhanger
-little character building in this book
-almost too fast-paced where you wish the author took a step back and fleshed out the world's and characters a lot more
-all the action is crammed into the last 70 pages or so and seems super rushed
The writing is good but could use more details and more deep dives into the characters to help you build connections with them. I think this book could have been a few hundred pages longer and still ended at the same page if the author did more fleshing out of the story, worldbuilding, and character building.
The one thing that disappoints me is because of the lack of world building and character building, I didn't get the same "couldn't put it down" or "I thought about reading the next chapter all day" feeling I normally love f4om reading. I had no major craving to continue the book. Like I wanted to read it sure but I could easily put it down and do chores while most books hold my attention captive until I finish it then I'm so deep into it that I look for fanart and read reviews and mark the next book release date and check if the author had other books. I didn't get that with this book and I think it is because I didn't get to bond with any of the characters throughout the book because all the characters are just huge mysteries even after finishing the book. I don't know what makes the main character tick. I don't know any backstory on any of the characters, not even the protagonist. Which is a weird choice.
Will I read the next story?
Sure. The story held my attention enough and the cliffhanger is there so I want to know what happens even though I'm not biting at the bit for it.
December 26, 2022
This book fell short in so many ways. The one saving grace was Voron. That hilarious owl is worth a whole star.
I thought that a lot more should have happened. It just felt unfinished. They didn't even get introduced to the Shadow Court until almost 50% through, while that should have happened around 25%. A lot of the characters were just... there. Like, why introduce Kara and Ell-whatever-his-name-was (the human guard) if they aren't going to be more... in the story? I understand that this was a cliffhanger, but it left waaaay too many loose ends. Reyna was freaking annoying. Mav had like zero character distinction from all the many other male leads of fantasy. The old Scandinavian setting was freaking awesome, but once they got out of the Gold Court, it didn't really matter anymore. It could have been set in any background. What happened to Reyna's ambition to become a warrior and get braids? She was just feisty for the sake of it because oOh, StRoNg FeMaLe LeAd. She got a little better near the end, but for the love all things good and holy, if you're going to be feisty have some brains to go along with the spark. Otherwise you're just indecently annoying and ear-bleed-inducing. Good God.
Also, that spice scene was incredibly unnecessary and weird. Why was it even there? There wasn't any romance to connect it to anything lol.
All-in-all, this could have been a cool book with better character development, more expansion on and grounding in the culture of the book, and if it wasn't chopped up into separate books to make more money. Will not be continuing with the series.
I thought that a lot more should have happened. It just felt unfinished. They didn't even get introduced to the Shadow Court until almost 50% through, while that should have happened around 25%. A lot of the characters were just... there. Like, why introduce Kara and Ell-whatever-his-name-was (the human guard) if they aren't going to be more... in the story? I understand that this was a cliffhanger, but it left waaaay too many loose ends. Reyna was freaking annoying. Mav had like zero character distinction from all the many other male leads of fantasy. The old Scandinavian setting was freaking awesome, but once they got out of the Gold Court, it didn't really matter anymore. It could have been set in any background. What happened to Reyna's ambition to become a warrior and get braids? She was just feisty for the sake of it because oOh, StRoNg FeMaLe LeAd. She got a little better near the end, but for the love all things good and holy, if you're going to be feisty have some brains to go along with the spark. Otherwise you're just indecently annoying and ear-bleed-inducing. Good God.
Also, that spice scene was incredibly unnecessary and weird. Why was it even there? There wasn't any romance to connect it to anything lol.
All-in-all, this could have been a cool book with better character development, more expansion on and grounding in the culture of the book, and if it wasn't chopped up into separate books to make more money. Will not be continuing with the series.
November 7, 2022
Fast-paced, interesting magic system & world, Hades and Persephone, Beauty and Beast retelling, slow-burn, enemies to lovers forced marriage.
I’d give 5stars if the author explain more abt characters and magic system more…
I’d recommend this book to FBAA fans too!
I’d give 5stars if the author explain more abt characters and magic system more…
I’d recommend this book to FBAA fans too!
February 11, 2023
Girl is an ordinary human slave. Guy is the evil prince from the sinister kingdom. Guy kidnaps girl and forces her into a betrothal. Is girl really ordinary? Is guy really evil?
A tale as old as time.
A tale as old as time.
February 13, 2023
This was so juicyyyyy - very plot driven and fast paced. I really appreciate Eliza Raine’s writing style. It’s very straight forward and to the point. Not overly descriptive but just fun and super fast to read! I can’t wait for the second book to come out in March!!!
December 31, 2022
2.5-3
Heroine is an idiot and the hero needs to go to therapy. Plot is good but the characters make it hard to connect with it because of their one-track-mindedness
Heroine is an idiot and the hero needs to go to therapy. Plot is good but the characters make it hard to connect with it because of their one-track-mindedness
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