okay so I wasn't sure how to feel about this going in because I am not typically a romantasy girl. there are such pervasive toxic themes in the genre that I usually reach for strict fantasy instead and have to hope a nice romance will sneak in at some point. but I received an eARC from The Nerd Fam and I am nothing if not a woman who likes to review a free book from a small press! 😅 especially when I realize it's got fairy tale retelling vibes-- I am consistently a sucker for that lol

pros: zippy little read! MMC is down bad, worldbuilding is cool, actual consequences for actions!!! bc that feels rare sometimes lol, MMC has shitty beliefs that are challenged and he learns and grows at a realistic pace!! and they actually listen to each other and empathize after honest moments! plot threads that can be followed to a logical point!

cons: FMC is SOOOOO wittle 😑; MMC is immortal fae compared to a young human woman (but honestly she's 20 and while that's.. a low bar. it is better than 17 or 18); tbh mono-normative but "one true mate" systems are just like that I guess 

in the end, I am not above kicking my feetsies in glee when a MMC brings a FMC crates of books and candles so she can read all night in peace. it was quick and light and fun and I had a really good time. and there were a few plot threads left hanging that I am truly curious to see how they turn out! so count me in for the sequel, too!

Thanks again to The Nerd Fam and Amy Patrick for the chance to read this early! 
All opinions are my own.