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Eidolonia #1
Lava Red Feather Blue
Awakening the handsome prince is supposed to end the fairy tale, not begin it. But the Highvalley witches have rarely done things the way they're supposed to. On the north Pacific island of Eidolonia, hidden from the world by enchantments, Prince Larkin has lain in a magical sleep since 1799 as one side of a truce between humans and fae. That is, until Merrick Highvalley, a modern-day witch, discovers an old box of magic charms and cryptic notes hidden inside a garden statue.
Experimenting with the charms, Merrick finds himself inside the bower where Larkin lies, and accidentally awakens him. Worse still, releasing Larkin from the spell also releases Ula Kana, a faery bent on eradicating humans from the island. With the truce collapsing and hostilities escalating throughout the country, Merrick and Larkin form an unlikely alliance and become even unlikelier heroes as they flee into the perilous fae realm on a quest to stop Ula Kana and restore harmony to their island.
Content warnings: Magic used nonconsensually to compel others; violent attacks, including some blood and fire; death and grief; imprisonment; untrustworthy governments.
Experimenting with the charms, Merrick finds himself inside the bower where Larkin lies, and accidentally awakens him. Worse still, releasing Larkin from the spell also releases Ula Kana, a faery bent on eradicating humans from the island. With the truce collapsing and hostilities escalating throughout the country, Merrick and Larkin form an unlikely alliance and become even unlikelier heroes as they flee into the perilous fae realm on a quest to stop Ula Kana and restore harmony to their island.
Content warnings: Magic used nonconsensually to compel others; violent attacks, including some blood and fire; death and grief; imprisonment; untrustworthy governments.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2021
33 people are currently reading
2541 people want to read
About the author
Molly Ringle
16 books407 followers[Aug. 2022 note: I'm going dormant on Goodreads and moving over to Storygraph. Find me there! I'm under username mollyringle and would love to connect.]
Bio: Molly Ringle was one of the quiet, weird kids in school, and is now one of the quiet, weird writers of the world. She/her, demi, bi.
Bio: Molly Ringle was one of the quiet, weird kids in school, and is now one of the quiet, weird writers of the world. She/her, demi, bi.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
November 19, 2020
3.5 stars! ⭐️
Lava Red Feather Blue was a pleasantly surprising fantasy tale. Part sleeping beauty re-imagined, part royalty and fae magic, I had an admittedly fun time reading.
“Alone is better than an army. But two is better than alone.”
~★~ What is this book about? ~★~
To halt an oncoming war, prince Larkin is put into an enchanted slumber along with a wicked fae queen. One can not be woken without also waking the other, ensuring temporary peace amidst human and fae realms.
Conflict arises when Larkin is woken more than 200 years later by a man who definitely shouldn't have messed with magic. The two are forced to face the consequences: the fae queen is back with a vengeance, destroying the world as they know it.
~★~
Objectively, this was a pretty solid book. The writing was elegant, encompassing the atmosphere of this story in a way that I think worked well. Merrick and Larkin are both really loveable protagonists that readers will want to root for. I enjoyed their adventures through different fae realms, as the descriptions provided a really whimsical and unique aspect to the story.
My favourite thing about Lava Red Feather Blue was the author’s portrayal of Larkin. It was really intriguing to see a prince from the 1700’s navigating 21st century customs and technology. Molly Ringle definitely did well in terms of laying out his emotions for readers.
I never thought this would be a complaint of mine, but it seemed that almost too much was included into the second portion of this story. The protagonists endure a lot in terms of travel, hardship and danger. While I did enjoy the different settings and creatures we were introduced to, there was a point where things moved really fast and without enough time to adjust.
I really took a liking to the romance. The protagonists love feels natural and in tune with the story; I think others will truly come to love their development and personal journey.
Thank you to Netgalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the arc!
Lava Red Feather Blue was a pleasantly surprising fantasy tale. Part sleeping beauty re-imagined, part royalty and fae magic, I had an admittedly fun time reading.
“Alone is better than an army. But two is better than alone.”
~★~ What is this book about? ~★~
To halt an oncoming war, prince Larkin is put into an enchanted slumber along with a wicked fae queen. One can not be woken without also waking the other, ensuring temporary peace amidst human and fae realms.
Conflict arises when Larkin is woken more than 200 years later by a man who definitely shouldn't have messed with magic. The two are forced to face the consequences: the fae queen is back with a vengeance, destroying the world as they know it.
~★~
Objectively, this was a pretty solid book. The writing was elegant, encompassing the atmosphere of this story in a way that I think worked well. Merrick and Larkin are both really loveable protagonists that readers will want to root for. I enjoyed their adventures through different fae realms, as the descriptions provided a really whimsical and unique aspect to the story.
My favourite thing about Lava Red Feather Blue was the author’s portrayal of Larkin. It was really intriguing to see a prince from the 1700’s navigating 21st century customs and technology. Molly Ringle definitely did well in terms of laying out his emotions for readers.
I never thought this would be a complaint of mine, but it seemed that almost too much was included into the second portion of this story. The protagonists endure a lot in terms of travel, hardship and danger. While I did enjoy the different settings and creatures we were introduced to, there was a point where things moved really fast and without enough time to adjust.
I really took a liking to the romance. The protagonists love feels natural and in tune with the story; I think others will truly come to love their development and personal journey.
Thank you to Netgalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the arc!
March 5, 2022
2.5 Stars
Look I’m not going to rehash every single reason why this didn't work for me, but if you like the idea of an enchanted island that houses both Fae and human alike, where relations have remained civilly contentious at best, and where a prince is finally freed from a coerced sleep alongside an enemy hell bent on destroying humanity, then this might catch your fancy.
Let me stress that this is not a poorly written story. It is full of detail and interesting world building and sets up a premise that obviously caught my eye. There’s a slow burn romance, plenty of action and magic, and a satisfying ending that I find no fault with. However, this took me forever to finish. I had absolutely no momentum or drive and whether that’s on me or the book, I can’t really say. All I know is that I have another Ringle book on my shelf, and I hope when I get to it, it will be more of a success. Please wish me luck!
Look I’m not going to rehash every single reason why this didn't work for me, but if you like the idea of an enchanted island that houses both Fae and human alike, where relations have remained civilly contentious at best, and where a prince is finally freed from a coerced sleep alongside an enemy hell bent on destroying humanity, then this might catch your fancy.
Let me stress that this is not a poorly written story. It is full of detail and interesting world building and sets up a premise that obviously caught my eye. There’s a slow burn romance, plenty of action and magic, and a satisfying ending that I find no fault with. However, this took me forever to finish. I had absolutely no momentum or drive and whether that’s on me or the book, I can’t really say. All I know is that I have another Ringle book on my shelf, and I hope when I get to it, it will be more of a success. Please wish me luck!
Read
April 5, 2023Why yes, you CAN also shelve this under LGBTQ as well as fantasy/paranormal/fae. But the LGBTQ content is not the central issue. No coming-out or identity angst; no homophobia. Just a lot of magic- and fae-related problems. :)
Content warnings: Magic used nonconsensually to compel others; violent attacks, including some blood and fire; death and grief; imprisonment; untrustworthy governments.
Some fun links:
The first five chapters, free for the reading (scroll all the way down to the bottom)
The Lava Red Feather Blue Spotify playlist
Pinterest board with casting thoughts and random aesthetics
The perfume list (which will make more sense after reading the book)(scroll down on that page)
Content warnings: Magic used nonconsensually to compel others; violent attacks, including some blood and fire; death and grief; imprisonment; untrustworthy governments.
Some fun links:
The first five chapters, free for the reading (scroll all the way down to the bottom)
The Lava Red Feather Blue Spotify playlist
Pinterest board with casting thoughts and random aesthetics
The perfume list (which will make more sense after reading the book)(scroll down on that page)
April 7, 2021
It took me a really long time to get into this one. I liked Larken and Merrick, but I just wasn’t into the story. There were quite a few characters that I had trouble keeping track of. I also usually really like a slow build romance, but I wasn’t that into this one. I felt like I was just waiting for the romance to pick up along with the story. I didn’t really get into the book until around 75%, which for me, is when the story really took off.
That’s why I chose three and a half stars rounded down. I have had plenty of stories pick up at the end and really turn it around and become awesome. This one certainly picked up, but I still wasn’t in love. I did enjoy the ending and how things turned out, but it wasn’t enough to become a great read for me.
I think it was mainly timing for me. I wanted things to be happening faster. By the time things picked up, it was too late for me to love it. And I wasn’t loving all the character mistakes that culminated into this story. With that being said, I think lots of people are going to really love this one. And that’s alright. I wanted to love it, but it just wasn’t for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Check out this review and others on my blog @ https://shannarareads.com/?p=383
Thanks!!
That’s why I chose three and a half stars rounded down. I have had plenty of stories pick up at the end and really turn it around and become awesome. This one certainly picked up, but I still wasn’t in love. I did enjoy the ending and how things turned out, but it wasn’t enough to become a great read for me.
I think it was mainly timing for me. I wanted things to be happening faster. By the time things picked up, it was too late for me to love it. And I wasn’t loving all the character mistakes that culminated into this story. With that being said, I think lots of people are going to really love this one. And that’s alright. I wanted to love it, but it just wasn’t for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for giving me the opportunity to read this book for my honest and unbiased opinion.
Check out this review and others on my blog @ https://shannarareads.com/?p=383
Thanks!!
February 4, 2022
3 Stars
If you love fantasy adventures, where the heroes go on dangerous, high-stakes quests, while finding a little romance along the way, then this might be the story for you.
As my first Molly Ringle read, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I one-clicked during a book sale, as the synopsis appealed a good deal and that cover art sucked me in with its gorgeous design—and for the most part, I enjoyed the story.
As far as fae infused fantasy reads are concerned, this was some pretty unique and vivid world building, set on a magical, hidden island, where humans have settled and developed magical abilities, while trying to prosper and live peacefully with the native fae inhabitants, some of whom have a strong dislike of the humans taking over their lands.
The story features some all too relatable themes concerning colonisation, and the aftermath affects that can have on all peoples involved, but mostly this was a fantasy story first and foremost, dealing with fae/human politics and good triumphing over evil (regardless of species).
The romance between leads Merrick and Larkin was lovely to a point, but it lacked the oomph it needed for them to be a truly memorable couple. I did appreciate the slow-burn nature of their relationship though, as it aligned perfectly with the kind of story being told.
Overall, this was a decent story, albeit a bit slow in pacing, but definitely one that should be read for the fantasy element over the romance element.
If you love fantasy adventures, where the heroes go on dangerous, high-stakes quests, while finding a little romance along the way, then this might be the story for you.
As my first Molly Ringle read, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I one-clicked during a book sale, as the synopsis appealed a good deal and that cover art sucked me in with its gorgeous design—and for the most part, I enjoyed the story.
As far as fae infused fantasy reads are concerned, this was some pretty unique and vivid world building, set on a magical, hidden island, where humans have settled and developed magical abilities, while trying to prosper and live peacefully with the native fae inhabitants, some of whom have a strong dislike of the humans taking over their lands.
The story features some all too relatable themes concerning colonisation, and the aftermath affects that can have on all peoples involved, but mostly this was a fantasy story first and foremost, dealing with fae/human politics and good triumphing over evil (regardless of species).
The romance between leads Merrick and Larkin was lovely to a point, but it lacked the oomph it needed for them to be a truly memorable couple. I did appreciate the slow-burn nature of their relationship though, as it aligned perfectly with the kind of story being told.
Overall, this was a decent story, albeit a bit slow in pacing, but definitely one that should be read for the fantasy element over the romance element.
August 21, 2021
A sweet retelling of Sleeping Beauty with a gay male couple, in which a prince is placed in a magical sleep by a witch in the 1700s and then inadvertently awoken by a young witch centuries later.
3.5 stars.
3.5 stars.
February 13, 2021
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Wow. I can't believe that I waited so freaking long to dive into Lave Red Feather Blue. Man, oh man, I'm so happy that I got this book. Even though I waited like 84 years to finally read it's magical pages, I am very happy that I got the chance to dive into it. I'm just sorry that I waited for it to be published in order to do so.
Honestly, there's so much to fall in love with when it comes to this amazing book. The world building, characters, and everything else in between was just completely entertaining from start to finish. I mean everyone was completely realistic in my eyes. They made mistakes, countless mistakes people, but they learned from them and it made them a better person in the end. Which was really refreshing because most books these days characters will magically be perfect at anything (even if it's there first time knowing it existed) and then make decisions without thinking things through or facing any sort of consequence.
So, yeah, this book wasn't like that and that's probably why I devoured it so freaking quickly. Again, I'm not even sorry about it one bit. I am, however, really disappointed in myself for waiting so long to read this. I feel like I need to redeem myself by going out and buying the actual book now.
In the end, I fell in love with everything. The twists, romance, drama, and fights kept me on the edge of my seat. I also feel like Merrick and Larkin are both my spirit animals just because I loved everything about them. The bantering and such gave me life. I just loved the damn book.
Wow. I can't believe that I waited so freaking long to dive into Lave Red Feather Blue. Man, oh man, I'm so happy that I got this book. Even though I waited like 84 years to finally read it's magical pages, I am very happy that I got the chance to dive into it. I'm just sorry that I waited for it to be published in order to do so.
Honestly, there's so much to fall in love with when it comes to this amazing book. The world building, characters, and everything else in between was just completely entertaining from start to finish. I mean everyone was completely realistic in my eyes. They made mistakes, countless mistakes people, but they learned from them and it made them a better person in the end. Which was really refreshing because most books these days characters will magically be perfect at anything (even if it's there first time knowing it existed) and then make decisions without thinking things through or facing any sort of consequence.
So, yeah, this book wasn't like that and that's probably why I devoured it so freaking quickly. Again, I'm not even sorry about it one bit. I am, however, really disappointed in myself for waiting so long to read this. I feel like I need to redeem myself by going out and buying the actual book now.
In the end, I fell in love with everything. The twists, romance, drama, and fights kept me on the edge of my seat. I also feel like Merrick and Larkin are both my spirit animals just because I loved everything about them. The bantering and such gave me life. I just loved the damn book.
September 16, 2020
READ THIS BOOK, IT'S AMAZING!!!
Faeries and an LGBTQ+ romance, what's not to love. I have been a massive fan of Ringle since I read All The Better Part of Me so I was equal parts excited and scared to pick up this book. Not only does this book not disappoint but it massively exceeded my expectations. Merrick and Larkin are brilliant characters that the reader is sure to love and their romance feels earned. Each of the minor characters feels fully realised too and you find yourself caring for even the most seemingly insignificant of them.
Ringle has created a really rich world with the island of Eidolonia with the lore effortlessly woven throughout the story and no info-dumping.
A really masterfully written book that I expect to be shouting about until I read the next book from Ringle.
Faeries and an LGBTQ+ romance, what's not to love. I have been a massive fan of Ringle since I read All The Better Part of Me so I was equal parts excited and scared to pick up this book. Not only does this book not disappoint but it massively exceeded my expectations. Merrick and Larkin are brilliant characters that the reader is sure to love and their romance feels earned. Each of the minor characters feels fully realised too and you find yourself caring for even the most seemingly insignificant of them.
Ringle has created a really rich world with the island of Eidolonia with the lore effortlessly woven throughout the story and no info-dumping.
A really masterfully written book that I expect to be shouting about until I read the next book from Ringle.
October 29, 2020
Actual rating: 2.5 (rounded up)
A thousand thanks to NetGalley and Michelle at Central Avenue Publishing for granting me access to this ARC.
You know, I was so excited to get my hands on this. I love Fantasy to begin with, but make it queer and I’m sold! It’s far too uncommon these days. This is, too, my second time around with a work by Molly Ringle. My first foray with ‘All the Better Part of Me’ was (admittedly) not a success, but I chose the benefit of the doubt and requested this novel, hoping and praying it would prove my prior disappointment was merely a fluke. So, here we meet again, and I must admit I’m pleasantly surprised! Don’t get me wrong: the book is imperfect. For the first 20%, I was frequently considering DNF’ing it and being done with it, but it managed to sway me over in the end.
Let’s just get the negatives out of the way first:
This e-ARC is also one of the worst I’ve ever seen in terms of formatting. I know it’s an uncorrected proof, but trying to read it on my Kindle gave me a lasting migraine.
A lot of exposition is thrown at us from the very beginning under the guise of world building, and it was fairly vague and generic. There was no time to make me care about any of the characters. Also, the action is written poorly; The sequences stilted and clunky. Here’s a quote attempting to describe the antagonist: “...the form of a woman melded to a nightmare.” But that’s all we’re given (and some allusions to lava?). I... don’t know what this means? Or what that’s supposed to look like? This supposed battle at the start was confusingly brief. It was one or two paragraphs, and then it was over so abruptly? There was no sense of suspense of proper pacing. And then we proceeded to a large time-jump, wherein we’re struck with more info-dumping every couple of lines. I’ve seen a lot of other reviews say otherwise, but I guess it’s all a matter of opinion. Info-dumping to further world-building Just. Doesn’t. Work. I would’ve been okay with it, actually, if it happened more organically, but it’s mostly within the dialogue. It was way too early in the book for that to make me care. The story meanders forward with LOTS of telling rather than showing. I don’t know how to explain it other than much of the continuing exposition felt pointless, and much of the dialogue just seemed... off.
By the time Merrick and Larkin meet, it is altogether predictable, but the writing seemed to even out and the filler fell away. I will say this about Merrick and Larkin meeting: the pace picked up and the dialogue got slightly better, too. I wish their relationship bloomed more gradually, though. It wasn’t Instalove, but you still knew it was coming eventually. This is, of course, a stand-alone novel, and there is only one option for romantic pairing. A slower burn to the romance would’ve been more beneficial to the story. However, kudos for making it lgbtq.
There was one particular passage that really frustrated me, but it’s a spoiler, so I’ll tag it accordingly: I mean, it’s just so exceedingly DUMB!. “They did not in fact have all day. They had a quest to complete...” So why in the HELL waste time on frivolous activities, you imbeciles?
Frustration struck me once more when and then towards the end
This books gets most brownie points for diversity, inclusivity, and—as the author stated—not making being queer the central issue. There is no angst about being lgbtq, or any homophobia. The characters simply are who they are. That’s something to champion.
In short: Did I like it? Yes. Did I love it? No.
A thousand thanks to NetGalley and Michelle at Central Avenue Publishing for granting me access to this ARC.
You know, I was so excited to get my hands on this. I love Fantasy to begin with, but make it queer and I’m sold! It’s far too uncommon these days. This is, too, my second time around with a work by Molly Ringle. My first foray with ‘All the Better Part of Me’ was (admittedly) not a success, but I chose the benefit of the doubt and requested this novel, hoping and praying it would prove my prior disappointment was merely a fluke. So, here we meet again, and I must admit I’m pleasantly surprised! Don’t get me wrong: the book is imperfect. For the first 20%, I was frequently considering DNF’ing it and being done with it, but it managed to sway me over in the end.
Let’s just get the negatives out of the way first:
This e-ARC is also one of the worst I’ve ever seen in terms of formatting. I know it’s an uncorrected proof, but trying to read it on my Kindle gave me a lasting migraine.
A lot of exposition is thrown at us from the very beginning under the guise of world building, and it was fairly vague and generic. There was no time to make me care about any of the characters. Also, the action is written poorly; The sequences stilted and clunky. Here’s a quote attempting to describe the antagonist: “...the form of a woman melded to a nightmare.” But that’s all we’re given (and some allusions to lava?). I... don’t know what this means? Or what that’s supposed to look like? This supposed battle at the start was confusingly brief. It was one or two paragraphs, and then it was over so abruptly? There was no sense of suspense of proper pacing. And then we proceeded to a large time-jump, wherein we’re struck with more info-dumping every couple of lines. I’ve seen a lot of other reviews say otherwise, but I guess it’s all a matter of opinion. Info-dumping to further world-building Just. Doesn’t. Work. I would’ve been okay with it, actually, if it happened more organically, but it’s mostly within the dialogue. It was way too early in the book for that to make me care. The story meanders forward with LOTS of telling rather than showing. I don’t know how to explain it other than much of the continuing exposition felt pointless, and much of the dialogue just seemed... off.
By the time Merrick and Larkin meet, it is altogether predictable, but the writing seemed to even out and the filler fell away. I will say this about Merrick and Larkin meeting: the pace picked up and the dialogue got slightly better, too. I wish their relationship bloomed more gradually, though. It wasn’t Instalove, but you still knew it was coming eventually. This is, of course, a stand-alone novel, and there is only one option for romantic pairing. A slower burn to the romance would’ve been more beneficial to the story. However, kudos for making it lgbtq.
There was one particular passage that really frustrated me, but it’s a spoiler, so I’ll tag it accordingly: I mean, it’s just so exceedingly DUMB!. “They did not in fact have all day. They had a quest to complete...” So why in the HELL waste time on frivolous activities, you imbeciles?
Frustration struck me once more when and then towards the end
This books gets most brownie points for diversity, inclusivity, and—as the author stated—not making being queer the central issue. There is no angst about being lgbtq, or any homophobia. The characters simply are who they are. That’s something to champion.
In short: Did I like it? Yes. Did I love it? No.
October 17, 2020
Faeries are my favourite magical creature - I looove them. And this was a super endearing book about them. The story revolves around Larkin, who has just woken up after being asleep since 1799, and Merrick, a half-witch, half-fae. I loved both characters and thought that they were both very likeable and realistic. I really liked the magical world that the author created, with lots of descriptions of the various types of fae and the other magical creatures the characters encountered.
I also liked that the relationship between them developed slowly; it wasn’t rushed, and it felt natural. It didn’t undermine the focus of the story, which was the magical journey they embark on in order to stop the antagonist from getting rid of humans on their island.
This was a great book with lovely characters and rich world building. I would definitely recommend this to all other faery-loving readers.
I also liked that the relationship between them developed slowly; it wasn’t rushed, and it felt natural. It didn’t undermine the focus of the story, which was the magical journey they embark on in order to stop the antagonist from getting rid of humans on their island.
This was a great book with lovely characters and rich world building. I would definitely recommend this to all other faery-loving readers.
March 6, 2021
Thank you to Central Avenue Publishing for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. This does not change my opinion in anyway.
I read an earlier book by author Molly Ringle and while the story couldn't charm me I did like some of her ideas and writing. So when I saw Lava Red Feather Blue I knew I had to give it another chance. I have some mixed feelings.
The start to Lava Red Feather Blue was a strong one. We go back in time first to learn a common knowledge to the island set in our world (but shrouded in mist to hide it from the rest of the world). Prince Larkin sacrificed himself to a magical sleep to keep a truce between the humans and fae on the island. But was this really a sacrifice?
We meet Merrick in modern day who has seen the effects of the truce. The good and the bad. As a half-fae, he isn't always accepted for who he is. He manages to awaken Larkin and with him, disrupts the peace on the island. Because with Larkin, an evil fairy rises, bent on eradicating the humans from the island. And you know, I partially feel for this fae because it struck me right of the bat as a twisted white european settlers background. The humans who come to the island basically take a good portion of the land from the fae. I wonder what that sounds like? I don't really know if the author meant to make this link but it is too similar to really discard since this happened during that period. It feels a bit ill thought out.
However I did enjoy the first half of this book. Merrick has a bit of an innocence about him while Larkin is our stuck-up prince. Their interactions with Merricks family and each other is what made the first half of this book for me. They were growing a bond between them despite their differences and prejudices.
The second half has the pair heading into fairy land and that is where I feel very mixed about the story. Of course fairy will mess with your head. But it messed with their dynamic. They argued. Had dumb drama. And then they fall in love. And I didn't quite feel it at that point anymore. Because the bond they had at the start of the story wasn't quite there anymore and I didn't feel they were coming out of it any stronger. The plot also didn't quite hold my attention anymore. The quest in fairy felt incredibly long-winded.
All in all I feel that Lava Red Feather Blue had great potential with the set up of the story and characters, but didn't quite finish it off.
I read an earlier book by author Molly Ringle and while the story couldn't charm me I did like some of her ideas and writing. So when I saw Lava Red Feather Blue I knew I had to give it another chance. I have some mixed feelings.
The start to Lava Red Feather Blue was a strong one. We go back in time first to learn a common knowledge to the island set in our world (but shrouded in mist to hide it from the rest of the world). Prince Larkin sacrificed himself to a magical sleep to keep a truce between the humans and fae on the island. But was this really a sacrifice?
We meet Merrick in modern day who has seen the effects of the truce. The good and the bad. As a half-fae, he isn't always accepted for who he is. He manages to awaken Larkin and with him, disrupts the peace on the island. Because with Larkin, an evil fairy rises, bent on eradicating the humans from the island. And you know, I partially feel for this fae because it struck me right of the bat as a twisted white european settlers background. The humans who come to the island basically take a good portion of the land from the fae. I wonder what that sounds like? I don't really know if the author meant to make this link but it is too similar to really discard since this happened during that period. It feels a bit ill thought out.
However I did enjoy the first half of this book. Merrick has a bit of an innocence about him while Larkin is our stuck-up prince. Their interactions with Merricks family and each other is what made the first half of this book for me. They were growing a bond between them despite their differences and prejudices.
The second half has the pair heading into fairy land and that is where I feel very mixed about the story. Of course fairy will mess with your head. But it messed with their dynamic. They argued. Had dumb drama. And then they fall in love. And I didn't quite feel it at that point anymore. Because the bond they had at the start of the story wasn't quite there anymore and I didn't feel they were coming out of it any stronger. The plot also didn't quite hold my attention anymore. The quest in fairy felt incredibly long-winded.
All in all I feel that Lava Red Feather Blue had great potential with the set up of the story and characters, but didn't quite finish it off.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2020
Thank you Central Avenue Publishing for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
Recommends it for: Are you obsessed with all these retellings? Do you love stories about the Fae. Maybe this book would work for you. It has rave reviews from a lot of people – this is just my opinion so please read on.
If I saw this in the shop, it would be a cover buy – NO DOUBT LOOK AT IT, ITS STUNNING. Sadly this book didn’t work for me much.
Unpopular opinions make me sad.
It’s about a half-human (Merrick)) that accidentally awakens a sleeping Fae Prince after he was sent to sleep by a spell to stop the wicked Ulna who hates humans and they team up to defeat her once and for all.
I felt so lost at first, I had no idea what was going on and the descriptions were so lackluster I felt absolutely deadpan throughout. This sucked because I really liked Larkin and his bond with his niece.
The worst part and maybe what was so off putting was that in some places , in most, there were no capital letters, and then suddenly in odd places there were. It obviously is a ARC which I understand but it was distracting and I couldn’t understand why it either was all in or not, but only in some places, it was odd and it really did distract me so maybe that was a part of the big problem.
i found it boring even when action scenes were happening, flat and a bit impersonal. I never once felt that magic or even cared enough to actually invest in anything or the characters. It could be that I just did not agree with the writing style (which can happen to anyone) The plot was a little too predictable and nothing shock-worthy enough happened to snap me out of my lethargic state.
Too bad, because I really liked the world, the magic & powers ,and our main character, Merrick.
IF YOU LOVE FAE – give this a chance and let me know your thoughts? It has some amazing reviews from other users so perhaps It was just me.
Rating: 2.3
Lava Red Feather Blue by Molly Ringle
Standalone
Publish Date: 3 September 2020
Cover Rating: 9/10 (stunning!)
Adult – Fantasy – Fae –Magic – Retelling- Romance
Recommends it for: Are you obsessed with all these retellings? Do you love stories about the Fae. Maybe this book would work for you. It has rave reviews from a lot of people – this is just my opinion so please read on.
If I saw this in the shop, it would be a cover buy – NO DOUBT LOOK AT IT, ITS STUNNING. Sadly this book didn’t work for me much.
Unpopular opinions make me sad.
It’s about a half-human (Merrick)) that accidentally awakens a sleeping Fae Prince after he was sent to sleep by a spell to stop the wicked Ulna who hates humans and they team up to defeat her once and for all.
I felt so lost at first, I had no idea what was going on and the descriptions were so lackluster I felt absolutely deadpan throughout. This sucked because I really liked Larkin and his bond with his niece.
The worst part and maybe what was so off putting was that in some places , in most, there were no capital letters, and then suddenly in odd places there were. It obviously is a ARC which I understand but it was distracting and I couldn’t understand why it either was all in or not, but only in some places, it was odd and it really did distract me so maybe that was a part of the big problem.
i found it boring even when action scenes were happening, flat and a bit impersonal. I never once felt that magic or even cared enough to actually invest in anything or the characters. It could be that I just did not agree with the writing style (which can happen to anyone) The plot was a little too predictable and nothing shock-worthy enough happened to snap me out of my lethargic state.
Too bad, because I really liked the world, the magic & powers ,and our main character, Merrick.
IF YOU LOVE FAE – give this a chance and let me know your thoughts? It has some amazing reviews from other users so perhaps It was just me.
Rating: 2.3
Lava Red Feather Blue by Molly Ringle
Standalone
Publish Date: 3 September 2020
Cover Rating: 9/10 (stunning!)
Adult – Fantasy – Fae –Magic – Retelling- Romance
September 10, 2021
First of all, I'd like to thank Central Avenue Publishing for the gifted copy.
I absolutely loved this book!
What if the Sleeping Beauty were not a beautiful princess but a handsome prince? And what happens after he wakes up?
This isn't how the tale is supposed to go. But then, the Highvalley witches have rarely done things the way they're supposed to be done. Especially Merrick Highvalley.
Because Merrick has a talent of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and trying to do good things in all sorts of inappropriate ways. One strike away from being jailed, thanks to his thrill-seeking, Merrick is determined to lay low and stay out of trouble. Especially when it comes to anything magical. Of course that includes opening mysterious boxes found in suddenly broken garden gargoyle statues. Opening those would be definitely unwise. But this is Merrick we're talking about! :D
And of course he has to experiment with the charms inside. All for a good purpose. And with absolutely no intention of awakening a historical figure from an enchanted sleep, let alone releasing a faery bent on eradicating humans on the side.
Alas, true to Merrick's luck, this is exactly what happens. Prince Larkin, who had lain in a magical sleep for over 200 years, as one side of a truce between humans and fae, is accidentally awakened. And the broken spell also releases Ula Kana, collapsing the truce between human and fairies, with hostilities escalating throughout the country as a result.
Two men on a mission.
One prince intent on making amends and restoring his own respect for himself.
And a witch determined to fix what he unintentionally broke.
An uneasy alliance of two unlikely heroes and a downright absurd and suicidal plan topped with a solid dose of action, a sprinkle of witty humour and hell lot of feeling.
This is what the tale of Merrick and Larkin with bring you and more.
Written in a beautiful and elegant prose, reminiscent of the tales of old, Lava Red Feather Blue masterfully intertwines mythology and technology, and manages to give an enchanting historical vibe to modern times while making it all seem real.
I absolutely loved the way prince Larkin tried to adapt to a modern world he didn't seem to fit in. His interactions with Merrick on that particular subject were one of the highlights of this tale for me.
Fanart - Merrick and Larkin by Ace Artemis
This book here is considered a fantasy LGBT romance and yes, there is a fabulous slow burn romance depicted in it. But then, the LGBT element is only part of, not central to the tale, and the tale itself is so much more.
We get a very slowly developing love in between Merrick and Larkin, which starts with an uneasy tolerance from one and a crippling shyness from the other and slowly develops into an unlikely friendship and, a lot later a strong solid love.
But we also get a tale of unlikely unwilling heroes who dare to risk it all to fix a wrong. We get edge of the seat adventure in the fairy lands, heartfelt friendship and determination to be better and do better, even when going on seems nothing but a fool's dream. And yes. Sigh-worthy love too.
The wordbuilding is stunning. The setting is so vivid that you can practically see the tale unfold, while characters leap of the page. Secondary cast included.
The villain is horrendous and some things seems to conveniently happen at times, but this is a fairy tale after all and that is expected. The plot is intriguing while tension is constantly upped and the threads are all nicely tied together in the end. Something quite difficult to achieve in a standalone but beautifully executed here. The mythical creatures are downright amazing, each one with it's particular quirks and don't even let me get started on the feeling.
'Heroes can be unwilling.'
The bundle of convoluted emotions a prince is engulfed in after waking up from a nightmare to seemingly be plunged straight into another. The crippling shyness of a common merchant half-fae witch and his certainty of being unworthy to even consider being kissed by a 'historical figure'. And that determination to do good and make amends regardless of what it may cost you... Oh my! I loved every single bit of that!
Bottomline, because I already held you too long, if you love fae romances with a lot of adventure, a solid plot and lots of feeling, give this book a try and you won't be disappointed.
Hugs and light everyone
and be kind.
I absolutely loved this book!
What if the Sleeping Beauty were not a beautiful princess but a handsome prince? And what happens after he wakes up?
This isn't how the tale is supposed to go. But then, the Highvalley witches have rarely done things the way they're supposed to be done. Especially Merrick Highvalley.
Because Merrick has a talent of being in the wrong place at the wrong time and trying to do good things in all sorts of inappropriate ways. One strike away from being jailed, thanks to his thrill-seeking, Merrick is determined to lay low and stay out of trouble. Especially when it comes to anything magical. Of course that includes opening mysterious boxes found in suddenly broken garden gargoyle statues. Opening those would be definitely unwise. But this is Merrick we're talking about! :D
And of course he has to experiment with the charms inside. All for a good purpose. And with absolutely no intention of awakening a historical figure from an enchanted sleep, let alone releasing a faery bent on eradicating humans on the side.
Alas, true to Merrick's luck, this is exactly what happens. Prince Larkin, who had lain in a magical sleep for over 200 years, as one side of a truce between humans and fae, is accidentally awakened. And the broken spell also releases Ula Kana, collapsing the truce between human and fairies, with hostilities escalating throughout the country as a result.
Two men on a mission.
One prince intent on making amends and restoring his own respect for himself.
And a witch determined to fix what he unintentionally broke.
An uneasy alliance of two unlikely heroes and a downright absurd and suicidal plan topped with a solid dose of action, a sprinkle of witty humour and hell lot of feeling.
This is what the tale of Merrick and Larkin with bring you and more.
Written in a beautiful and elegant prose, reminiscent of the tales of old, Lava Red Feather Blue masterfully intertwines mythology and technology, and manages to give an enchanting historical vibe to modern times while making it all seem real.
I absolutely loved the way prince Larkin tried to adapt to a modern world he didn't seem to fit in. His interactions with Merrick on that particular subject were one of the highlights of this tale for me.
Fanart - Merrick and Larkin by Ace Artemis
This book here is considered a fantasy LGBT romance and yes, there is a fabulous slow burn romance depicted in it. But then, the LGBT element is only part of, not central to the tale, and the tale itself is so much more.
We get a very slowly developing love in between Merrick and Larkin, which starts with an uneasy tolerance from one and a crippling shyness from the other and slowly develops into an unlikely friendship and, a lot later a strong solid love.
But we also get a tale of unlikely unwilling heroes who dare to risk it all to fix a wrong. We get edge of the seat adventure in the fairy lands, heartfelt friendship and determination to be better and do better, even when going on seems nothing but a fool's dream. And yes. Sigh-worthy love too.
The wordbuilding is stunning. The setting is so vivid that you can practically see the tale unfold, while characters leap of the page. Secondary cast included.
The villain is horrendous and some things seems to conveniently happen at times, but this is a fairy tale after all and that is expected. The plot is intriguing while tension is constantly upped and the threads are all nicely tied together in the end. Something quite difficult to achieve in a standalone but beautifully executed here. The mythical creatures are downright amazing, each one with it's particular quirks and don't even let me get started on the feeling.
'Heroes can be unwilling.'
The bundle of convoluted emotions a prince is engulfed in after waking up from a nightmare to seemingly be plunged straight into another. The crippling shyness of a common merchant half-fae witch and his certainty of being unworthy to even consider being kissed by a 'historical figure'. And that determination to do good and make amends regardless of what it may cost you... Oh my! I loved every single bit of that!
Bottomline, because I already held you too long, if you love fae romances with a lot of adventure, a solid plot and lots of feeling, give this book a try and you won't be disappointed.
Hugs and light everyone
and be kind.
August 16, 2021
molly ringle really said "sleeping beauty, but make it gay" and if that's not a thing you're willing to read i can't help you.
this book gives such a good twist on sleeping beauty and i'm here for it! i love that the story only begins when the prince wakes up, like...that's so much better? either way, this book gave me a lot of feelings (yes i cried, what about it?) and then you have the characters and the dialogue and the romance and—i'm screaming.
this book gives such a good twist on sleeping beauty and i'm here for it! i love that the story only begins when the prince wakes up, like...that's so much better? either way, this book gave me a lot of feelings (yes i cried, what about it?) and then you have the characters and the dialogue and the romance and—i'm screaming.
November 24, 2020
Prince Larkin has been trapped in an enchanted sleep, until bumbling half-fae Merrick awakens him.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Prince Larkin is famed for his sacrifice in the fight against the dangerous faerie Ula Kana. But it's all a lie, he was forced into an enchanted slumber by the court's witch.
Two hundred years later, he has to come to terms with the fact all of his family are long-dead, and he's lost in a world of technological advancements.
Merrick is descended from the witch who imprisoned Larkin, and a complete accident awakened the prince.
Merrick is half-fae, and feels at odds with society, not really knowing where he fits in or how to commit to anything in life. He finally has to step up and do something important, when he realises that only he and Larkin can trap Ula Kana and save Eidolonia.
I loved the idea of this book, a fairytale involving a sleeping prince, on a magical island that can't be found, unless you are invited in.
I feel like I know Eidolonia, and wish I could visit. An island that historically belonged to the fae, but has had a human settlement for a few centuries. Even though humans are the relative newcomers, there are individuals that are always pushing for more territory, and a government that has become corrupt.
The human settlements are at the edge of the faerie land, a place that even half-fa Merrick is not allowed to go. Even though the truce formed when Larkin and Ula Kana were forced into an enchanted sleep is still active, tensions are high between human and fae.
I really liked how the LGBTQ content was included. People (and fae) in Eidolonia are just accepted for who they are.
As the author states, this story doesn't focus on the fact that the main characters are gay. They just are.
Aside from the world-building, it didn't live up to my expectations, for two main reasons.
I didn't like the main characters.
Yes, they're flawed and relatable, but I found them extremely selfish.
Not the big stuff. I mean, I could understand why Larkin was against the first enchantment; and why he refused a second one. But I just felt that there were lots of little moments that just rubbed me up the wrong way. There was nothing positive about him, and I couldn't root for him.
I liked Merrick even less. I thought he was incredibly immature and self-centred. I was surprised he was in his twenties, with all the whining he does.
He has no dreams or ambitions of his own, and belittles everyone else's choices. From Larkin wanting to leave the island, to his sister running a perfumery (which Merrick works at for convenience - yes, he enjoys it too; but he doubts it's a long-term fix).
Merrick then stops supporting Larkin when the prince wants to go public, because he's too worried about how it will reflect on him.
The second reason is how heavy the narrative is with exposition. It slows everything down to a snail's pace. We get told so much about the world, and magic, and the fae.
Even the dialogue is very talky - we are being talked at and having everything explained, from matter witches to cars and computers.
Overall, it was a nice idea, but too slow for me.
I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Prince Larkin is famed for his sacrifice in the fight against the dangerous faerie Ula Kana. But it's all a lie, he was forced into an enchanted slumber by the court's witch.
Two hundred years later, he has to come to terms with the fact all of his family are long-dead, and he's lost in a world of technological advancements.
Merrick is descended from the witch who imprisoned Larkin, and a complete accident awakened the prince.
Merrick is half-fae, and feels at odds with society, not really knowing where he fits in or how to commit to anything in life. He finally has to step up and do something important, when he realises that only he and Larkin can trap Ula Kana and save Eidolonia.
I loved the idea of this book, a fairytale involving a sleeping prince, on a magical island that can't be found, unless you are invited in.
I feel like I know Eidolonia, and wish I could visit. An island that historically belonged to the fae, but has had a human settlement for a few centuries. Even though humans are the relative newcomers, there are individuals that are always pushing for more territory, and a government that has become corrupt.
The human settlements are at the edge of the faerie land, a place that even half-fa Merrick is not allowed to go. Even though the truce formed when Larkin and Ula Kana were forced into an enchanted sleep is still active, tensions are high between human and fae.
I really liked how the LGBTQ content was included. People (and fae) in Eidolonia are just accepted for who they are.
As the author states, this story doesn't focus on the fact that the main characters are gay. They just are.
Aside from the world-building, it didn't live up to my expectations, for two main reasons.
I didn't like the main characters.
Yes, they're flawed and relatable, but I found them extremely selfish.
Not the big stuff. I mean, I could understand why Larkin was against the first enchantment; and why he refused a second one. But I just felt that there were lots of little moments that just rubbed me up the wrong way. There was nothing positive about him, and I couldn't root for him.
I liked Merrick even less. I thought he was incredibly immature and self-centred. I was surprised he was in his twenties, with all the whining he does.
He has no dreams or ambitions of his own, and belittles everyone else's choices. From Larkin wanting to leave the island, to his sister running a perfumery (which Merrick works at for convenience - yes, he enjoys it too; but he doubts it's a long-term fix).
Merrick then stops supporting Larkin when the prince wants to go public, because he's too worried about how it will reflect on him.
The second reason is how heavy the narrative is with exposition. It slows everything down to a snail's pace. We get told so much about the world, and magic, and the fae.
Even the dialogue is very talky - we are being talked at and having everything explained, from matter witches to cars and computers.
Overall, it was a nice idea, but too slow for me.
January 5, 2024
5/5 stars for the most perfect first read of the year!!!
First up I’d like to convey my surprise on how little hype this book has (when twilight has people flocking to read it still). This book has everything one could ever ask for, a fairytale retelling (Sleeping Beauty), wonderfully executed plot, perfectly fleshed out characters and a HEA to boot (plus there's a knife to the throat scene!!!✨).
If you’re looking for a cozy, enchanting world to escape into then this book is the perfect one for you! Highly recommend!❤️❤️
pre read: First read of the year!!
First up I’d like to convey my surprise on how little hype this book has (when twilight has people flocking to read it still). This book has everything one could ever ask for, a fairytale retelling (Sleeping Beauty), wonderfully executed plot, perfectly fleshed out characters and a HEA to boot (plus there's a knife to the throat scene!!!✨).
If you’re looking for a cozy, enchanting world to escape into then this book is the perfect one for you! Highly recommend!❤️❤️
pre read: First read of the year!!
December 20, 2021
>>4.5★<<
Thank you to Central Avenue publishing for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When Merrick Highvalley accidentally awakened Prince Larkin from his magically-induced sleep he also released Ula Kana, the faery that was responsible for so much death and turmoil 220 years earlier. Over the last two centuries the island of Eidolonia saw a lot of advancement in technology, architecture and both magic and its uses but nothing that would offer any greater protection against a murderous faery bent on the eradication of humans and any fae who sympathize with them. With hostilities on the rise and an incompetent government at the helm Merrick and Prince Larkin must band together and enter the fae realm on a quest to restore harmony among their people. Surviving the fae realm as humans is unlikely at the best of times and now the survival of both humans and fae alike will depend on not just their survival but also their ability to convince the fae leaders to help them.
I love books that feature faeries and their dreamlike world that glitters from the outside but conceals nightmares beneath the surface. With so many fae stories on the shelves recently it has become hard to find a fae story that feels fresh and new but Lava Red Feather Blue does not disappoint. I loved Ringle's take on this popular theme in fantasy. Eidolonia is an island in the Pacific Northwest that is concealed from the rest of the world using magic. It was once home only to the fae but when storms and other factors brought ships carrying humans to their beaches the fae decided to reveal themselves to a select few in hopes of being entertained. Over hundreds of years the island became populated with not only fae but also humans and witches. They live divided for the most part, separated by the verge, except for the faeries that choose to live among the humans.
Besides faeries I also love stories set in the Pacific Northwest. Magic is so much more believable among the majestic redwoods and hidden within the fog that often permeates the land so I was destined to like this book right from the get-go. Atmosphere is important to me, especially in the fantasy genre, and Ringle did a great job creating it in this book. The presence of so many unique individuals and species made this a really fun story as well, not to mention the inclusion of queer and non-binary characters- in this world its simply accepted as the norm. People love who they love and no one questions that. Besides Faeries and humans, witches also play a large part in this story. Merrick and his family are descended from the most powerful witch recorded in their history who also happened to be responsible for the magic that put Prince Larkin to sleep all those years ago- this fact creates an even more dynamic relationship between the two men beyond the many things that already separate them (one being royal while the other is not, and one waking up suddenly in a world where technology rules and depending on the guidance of his enemie's kin to navigate through it).
The best part of this book was the quest into the fae realm. Merrick and Larkin had to navigate a dangerous world where one misstep could mean their demise. Faery enchantments and realm leaders with outrageous requests meant the journey was always taking the reader in unexpected places fraught with obstacles that the pair had to overcome in order to survive. There were a couple developments I didn't see coming and I always appreciate that. This quest also afforded Merrick and Larkin time to get to know one another and finally face the chemistry that is so evident between them- but doing so also meant distractions that had consequences.
Despite the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a few minor things did hold me back from giving it five stars. One of those things being the fact that the first half of the book was definitely more wordy and slower paced. That's not to say I didn't enjoy that portion of the book, it just means it wasn't as fascinating or compulsively readable as the second half. Luckily most of the book is eloquently written so even the slower portions are enjoyable to consume. That brings me to the second minor issue I had. I say most of the book is eloquent because there are a couple scenes that were a bit awkward and slightly uncomfortable to read. Those instances took place during a couple of the intimate scenes in which I found some of the descriptions and word choices to be a bit peculiar. Additionally, I think it goes without saying that people who read fantasy novels are prepared to suspend belief quite a lot. Concessions are made for the good of the genre. But sometimes even fantasy writers get a bit carried away. The moment I’m referring to is a scene in which Larkin must climb a rock wall. With one booted foot and one bare, injured and bleeding foot (and that’s not even what makes the scene hard to believe). I won’t say more than that because I don’t want to spoil anyone but the feat he pulls off in this scene is… impossible. Fortunately for me I’m happy to look past these criticisms because they don’t have much of an impact on the story as whole. Lava Red Feather Blue was a wonderful surprise of a book and I can't recommend it enough to fans of both fantasy and fae. It's a unique take on a well-worn premise that was a joy to read.
Thank you to Central Avenue publishing for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
When Merrick Highvalley accidentally awakened Prince Larkin from his magically-induced sleep he also released Ula Kana, the faery that was responsible for so much death and turmoil 220 years earlier. Over the last two centuries the island of Eidolonia saw a lot of advancement in technology, architecture and both magic and its uses but nothing that would offer any greater protection against a murderous faery bent on the eradication of humans and any fae who sympathize with them. With hostilities on the rise and an incompetent government at the helm Merrick and Prince Larkin must band together and enter the fae realm on a quest to restore harmony among their people. Surviving the fae realm as humans is unlikely at the best of times and now the survival of both humans and fae alike will depend on not just their survival but also their ability to convince the fae leaders to help them.
I love books that feature faeries and their dreamlike world that glitters from the outside but conceals nightmares beneath the surface. With so many fae stories on the shelves recently it has become hard to find a fae story that feels fresh and new but Lava Red Feather Blue does not disappoint. I loved Ringle's take on this popular theme in fantasy. Eidolonia is an island in the Pacific Northwest that is concealed from the rest of the world using magic. It was once home only to the fae but when storms and other factors brought ships carrying humans to their beaches the fae decided to reveal themselves to a select few in hopes of being entertained. Over hundreds of years the island became populated with not only fae but also humans and witches. They live divided for the most part, separated by the verge, except for the faeries that choose to live among the humans.
Besides faeries I also love stories set in the Pacific Northwest. Magic is so much more believable among the majestic redwoods and hidden within the fog that often permeates the land so I was destined to like this book right from the get-go. Atmosphere is important to me, especially in the fantasy genre, and Ringle did a great job creating it in this book. The presence of so many unique individuals and species made this a really fun story as well, not to mention the inclusion of queer and non-binary characters- in this world its simply accepted as the norm. People love who they love and no one questions that. Besides Faeries and humans, witches also play a large part in this story. Merrick and his family are descended from the most powerful witch recorded in their history who also happened to be responsible for the magic that put Prince Larkin to sleep all those years ago- this fact creates an even more dynamic relationship between the two men beyond the many things that already separate them (one being royal while the other is not, and one waking up suddenly in a world where technology rules and depending on the guidance of his enemie's kin to navigate through it).
The best part of this book was the quest into the fae realm. Merrick and Larkin had to navigate a dangerous world where one misstep could mean their demise. Faery enchantments and realm leaders with outrageous requests meant the journey was always taking the reader in unexpected places fraught with obstacles that the pair had to overcome in order to survive. There were a couple developments I didn't see coming and I always appreciate that. This quest also afforded Merrick and Larkin time to get to know one another and finally face the chemistry that is so evident between them- but doing so also meant distractions that had consequences.
Despite the fact that I thoroughly enjoyed this book a few minor things did hold me back from giving it five stars. One of those things being the fact that the first half of the book was definitely more wordy and slower paced. That's not to say I didn't enjoy that portion of the book, it just means it wasn't as fascinating or compulsively readable as the second half. Luckily most of the book is eloquently written so even the slower portions are enjoyable to consume. That brings me to the second minor issue I had. I say most of the book is eloquent because there are a couple scenes that were a bit awkward and slightly uncomfortable to read. Those instances took place during a couple of the intimate scenes in which I found some of the descriptions and word choices to be a bit peculiar. Additionally, I think it goes without saying that people who read fantasy novels are prepared to suspend belief quite a lot. Concessions are made for the good of the genre. But sometimes even fantasy writers get a bit carried away. The moment I’m referring to is a scene in which Larkin must climb a rock wall. With one booted foot and one bare, injured and bleeding foot (and that’s not even what makes the scene hard to believe). I won’t say more than that because I don’t want to spoil anyone but the feat he pulls off in this scene is… impossible. Fortunately for me I’m happy to look past these criticisms because they don’t have much of an impact on the story as whole. Lava Red Feather Blue was a wonderful surprise of a book and I can't recommend it enough to fans of both fantasy and fae. It's a unique take on a well-worn premise that was a joy to read.
April 13, 2023
I first want to thank NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for giving me early access to this title in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely adored this book. I laughed, squeed, sobbed, was in suspense, felt anxious, was surprised, and so much more. I truly appreciate the complexity Ringle brought to each character. I loved how even though reading the book felt like an escape, it also remained realistic, in that, it was not a perfect, fairytale story. That being said, by the end of chapter one, I had a lot of assumptions and expectations of some of the key plot points that might happen in the book. However, I found the book and story so well written, that even when those things did happen, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading every page of the book.
There is so much more I want to say about this book, but I am not sure how else I can express my love for this book without giving away spoilers. If you love fantasy, fae, quests, LGBTQ representation, magic, and/or well written, complex characters, I highly encourage you to pick up this book once it's out. Once you start, you won't be able to think about anything else until you've reached the end. And then you'll still be thinking about it.
Content Warnings: fighting, death, one sex scene
I absolutely adored this book. I laughed, squeed, sobbed, was in suspense, felt anxious, was surprised, and so much more. I truly appreciate the complexity Ringle brought to each character. I loved how even though reading the book felt like an escape, it also remained realistic, in that, it was not a perfect, fairytale story. That being said, by the end of chapter one, I had a lot of assumptions and expectations of some of the key plot points that might happen in the book. However, I found the book and story so well written, that even when those things did happen, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading every page of the book.
There is so much more I want to say about this book, but I am not sure how else I can express my love for this book without giving away spoilers. If you love fantasy, fae, quests, LGBTQ representation, magic, and/or well written, complex characters, I highly encourage you to pick up this book once it's out. Once you start, you won't be able to think about anything else until you've reached the end. And then you'll still be thinking about it.
Content Warnings: fighting, death, one sex scene
September 17, 2020
I am in love with this book. I feel like it’s a perfect example of highlighting all the talent and creative force Molly Ringle contains!
The story follows Prince Larkin, a newly awoken prince originally from 1799, and Merrick Highvalley, a half fae witch, as they are forced into a magical journey through the fae realm to prevent Ula Kana from eradicating the humans off the island they call home.
First, let me tell you how refreshing it is to have another lgbt+ book in the fantasy category without the sexualities being part of the plot. It’s refreshing, as someone in the community, to be able to enjoy a book without tensing up and waiting for anything homophobic (from an antagonist or otherwise) and that made it very comfortable. Ringle also takes care with the characters, each one being unique and stereotypes are avoided.
As the book goes on, the connection between Merrick and Prince Larkin grows very naturally. While Merrick doesn’t hide from the reader how much he has the hots for the prince, he is respectful and focuses on what needs to be done, the thoughts about Larkin lingering for moments he lets himself think about it. Prince Larkin has more hints of interest but is definitely more focused on the fact he is in a completely new century and Ula Kana is free. And he’s a little annoyed at this Merrick boy who awoken him and, by extension, freeing Ula Kana. The approach is very realistic and we get to see the two of them form a very healthy bond, where they develop as individuals, together. They have different strengths and weaknesses that end up complimenting each other and they become an amazing team, in more than one way. It’s fascinating to read and, just like the representation, is refreshing.
Another unique treasure in this book is Ringle’s very clear passion for perfume. It’s very rare to find a book that touches on the sense of smell without either making me confused or making it something I simply read over. It made me interested and pay a little more closely when my mom rambles to me about her essential oils. The way she was able to incorporate this into magic was definitely fun!
Ringle has brought us something we desperately need: a well-written magical adventure where we can witness the struggles of two gay characters with both the dangers of the fae realm but also their own personal fears and obstacles without it focusing solely on their sexuality. She shows her passion and has left me wanting so much more. Highly recommended!
The story follows Prince Larkin, a newly awoken prince originally from 1799, and Merrick Highvalley, a half fae witch, as they are forced into a magical journey through the fae realm to prevent Ula Kana from eradicating the humans off the island they call home.
First, let me tell you how refreshing it is to have another lgbt+ book in the fantasy category without the sexualities being part of the plot. It’s refreshing, as someone in the community, to be able to enjoy a book without tensing up and waiting for anything homophobic (from an antagonist or otherwise) and that made it very comfortable. Ringle also takes care with the characters, each one being unique and stereotypes are avoided.
As the book goes on, the connection between Merrick and Prince Larkin grows very naturally. While Merrick doesn’t hide from the reader how much he has the hots for the prince, he is respectful and focuses on what needs to be done, the thoughts about Larkin lingering for moments he lets himself think about it. Prince Larkin has more hints of interest but is definitely more focused on the fact he is in a completely new century and Ula Kana is free. And he’s a little annoyed at this Merrick boy who awoken him and, by extension, freeing Ula Kana. The approach is very realistic and we get to see the two of them form a very healthy bond, where they develop as individuals, together. They have different strengths and weaknesses that end up complimenting each other and they become an amazing team, in more than one way. It’s fascinating to read and, just like the representation, is refreshing.
Another unique treasure in this book is Ringle’s very clear passion for perfume. It’s very rare to find a book that touches on the sense of smell without either making me confused or making it something I simply read over. It made me interested and pay a little more closely when my mom rambles to me about her essential oils. The way she was able to incorporate this into magic was definitely fun!
Ringle has brought us something we desperately need: a well-written magical adventure where we can witness the struggles of two gay characters with both the dangers of the fae realm but also their own personal fears and obstacles without it focusing solely on their sexuality. She shows her passion and has left me wanting so much more. Highly recommended!
December 27, 2020
3.5-4 stars. Cute, queer, fun, and overall a good time, with a few things that I personally just don't like that much.
Rep: Merrick and his family are black (bronze skin with curly black hair), according to Larkin much of the islanders have brown skin and black hair, the main romance is mlm, Merrick's older sibling uses they/them pronouns, and it's a generally homophobia/transphobia/racism free world, except in the use of fae/human relations as an allegory for race and colonialism.
TWs: non graphic sex scene, violence, 16+
This book I think did best in the worldbuilding and character development; Merrick is delightful and hilarious, Larkin is adorable and sweet, and they have good chemistry. They're also both really funny with Cassidy, Merrick's sibling, their daughter Elemi, and Merrick's father Nye. I think the characterization of Rosamund was also done very well, especially in relation to Larkin. But the world! What I wouldn't give to live on Eidolonia, it's such a beautiful, magic island. The plot is also quite good, it's explained well and not confusing, and it's gripping throughout the whole book. Unlike a lot of fantasies, I think the author, for the most part, finds a pretty good balance between the characters/relationships and the plot, and both are written fairly well.
As far as things I didn't like, I personally prefer slow-burn romances and get kind of bored as soon as the characters are together, so while the romance was cute, I didn't love it since they were together for a lot of the book (also, it's a pretty short timeline and I felt like they were developing feelings pretty quickly). On that note, a lot of the relationship drama happened publicly (in front of the fae), which is something I just really hate as a concept. Additionally, a lot of the plot was dependent on their relationship, which was fine, but sometimes I think the solutions felt a little too easy, especially towards the end.
But, overall, the book was entertaining, I had a good time, and Larkin and Merrick are cute together; they have good chemistry.
Arc provided from netgalley.
Rep: Merrick and his family are black (bronze skin with curly black hair), according to Larkin much of the islanders have brown skin and black hair, the main romance is mlm, Merrick's older sibling uses they/them pronouns, and it's a generally homophobia/transphobia/racism free world, except in the use of fae/human relations as an allegory for race and colonialism.
TWs: non graphic sex scene, violence, 16+
This book I think did best in the worldbuilding and character development; Merrick is delightful and hilarious, Larkin is adorable and sweet, and they have good chemistry. They're also both really funny with Cassidy, Merrick's sibling, their daughter Elemi, and Merrick's father Nye. I think the characterization of Rosamund was also done very well, especially in relation to Larkin. But the world! What I wouldn't give to live on Eidolonia, it's such a beautiful, magic island. The plot is also quite good, it's explained well and not confusing, and it's gripping throughout the whole book. Unlike a lot of fantasies, I think the author, for the most part, finds a pretty good balance between the characters/relationships and the plot, and both are written fairly well.
As far as things I didn't like, I personally prefer slow-burn romances and get kind of bored as soon as the characters are together, so while the romance was cute, I didn't love it since they were together for a lot of the book (also, it's a pretty short timeline and I felt like they were developing feelings pretty quickly). On that note, a lot of the relationship drama happened publicly (in front of the fae), which is something I just really hate as a concept. Additionally, a lot of the plot was dependent on their relationship, which was fine, but sometimes I think the solutions felt a little too easy, especially towards the end.
But, overall, the book was entertaining, I had a good time, and Larkin and Merrick are cute together; they have good chemistry.
Arc provided from netgalley.
August 7, 2022
This book pulled me out of a 2 month reading slump! *shakes fist at covid*
The story alternates between the POV of Prince Larkin and Merrick Highvalley. The human prince Larkin was forced into an enchanted sleep to protect the island of Eidolonia in the 18th century, the half fae Merrick is the 21st century descendant of the witch who put Larkin under that spell. Merrick is a bit hard headed, and unafraid of causing a bit of trouble, so after he finds his ancestor’s magical artifacts it by accident that he finds himself in the sleeping prince’s bower and awakens him. Waking Larkin also wakes the island’s most notorious foe, and the two of them choose to embark on a dangerous adventure to complete the enchantment Merrick’s ancestor once started.
The alliance between Larkin and Merrick is so unlikely since they are such different characters from very different times, and their relationship grows in a realistic way – nothing about their differences is glossed over and they even separate for a time in the human world before the adventure starts. I thought that personalities were well written and reactions to circumstances well thought out.
This book also had some fun ‘compelling’ scenes and I found it fun that the author put the characters in so many Situations while on their adventure. One fae territory made them feel joy, another animosity, fear, grief. Watching the two of them deal with their perilous journey while also struggling against the different emotion enhancing lands was interesting, and it did a lot towards letting the characters grow and change.
Besides my love for the characters, there was also all this beautiful world building! The descriptions of different kinds of fae and the imagery of the island was super well done and I kept putting the book down just to imagine it all. And there is a mystery and mystique surrounding the magic of the fae realm which I loved. Molly Ringle has created such a beautiful and intriguing world.
Highly recommended weekend fantasy read
The story alternates between the POV of Prince Larkin and Merrick Highvalley. The human prince Larkin was forced into an enchanted sleep to protect the island of Eidolonia in the 18th century, the half fae Merrick is the 21st century descendant of the witch who put Larkin under that spell. Merrick is a bit hard headed, and unafraid of causing a bit of trouble, so after he finds his ancestor’s magical artifacts it by accident that he finds himself in the sleeping prince’s bower and awakens him. Waking Larkin also wakes the island’s most notorious foe, and the two of them choose to embark on a dangerous adventure to complete the enchantment Merrick’s ancestor once started.
The alliance between Larkin and Merrick is so unlikely since they are such different characters from very different times, and their relationship grows in a realistic way – nothing about their differences is glossed over and they even separate for a time in the human world before the adventure starts. I thought that personalities were well written and reactions to circumstances well thought out.
This book also had some fun ‘compelling’ scenes and I found it fun that the author put the characters in so many Situations while on their adventure. One fae territory made them feel joy, another animosity, fear, grief. Watching the two of them deal with their perilous journey while also struggling against the different emotion enhancing lands was interesting, and it did a lot towards letting the characters grow and change.
Besides my love for the characters, there was also all this beautiful world building! The descriptions of different kinds of fae and the imagery of the island was super well done and I kept putting the book down just to imagine it all. And there is a mystery and mystique surrounding the magic of the fae realm which I loved. Molly Ringle has created such a beautiful and intriguing world.
Highly recommended weekend fantasy read
November 21, 2021
Well, now what am I going to read? I read that all up in 2 days and it was so good, I'm going to have a hard time finding something to read next.
The world is immensely interesting (I really, really hope that we see more of it) and the characters are believable people in a way that characters often aren't. Their actions and reactions are flawed without making them ignoble, human but also heroic. The romance is moving and honest, part of the story but not the point of it (which is the way I prefer it, as part of a compelling plot, not the point of a cursory plot that only exists to facilitate the romance). There was no part of the story where I couldn't understand or identify with both Larkin and Merrick, even when they disagreed or were acting as pissy as humans sometimes do when unhappy or under stress. They don't shrug things off the minute the plot needs them to move ahead, but have to deal as we all do, over time.
No contrived misunderstandings or braindead actions to create drama here. Neither are needed because there's more than enough drama that's completely organic to the story, which is much more intense, emotional and exciting than the synopsis might lead one to believe, while still remaining a fun read. The author never takes an easy way out or offers an escape that you might expect without subverting it. (The pets are fine, though. No need to worry about them!)
This is also a world without hetero or binary gender normativity, but that's not the point of the story, either. It just IS, the same way there's air to breath. Ahhh, balm to my weary soul....
The world is immensely interesting (I really, really hope that we see more of it) and the characters are believable people in a way that characters often aren't. Their actions and reactions are flawed without making them ignoble, human but also heroic. The romance is moving and honest, part of the story but not the point of it (which is the way I prefer it, as part of a compelling plot, not the point of a cursory plot that only exists to facilitate the romance). There was no part of the story where I couldn't understand or identify with both Larkin and Merrick, even when they disagreed or were acting as pissy as humans sometimes do when unhappy or under stress. They don't shrug things off the minute the plot needs them to move ahead, but have to deal as we all do, over time.
No contrived misunderstandings or braindead actions to create drama here. Neither are needed because there's more than enough drama that's completely organic to the story, which is much more intense, emotional and exciting than the synopsis might lead one to believe, while still remaining a fun read. The author never takes an easy way out or offers an escape that you might expect without subverting it. (The pets are fine, though. No need to worry about them!)
This is also a world without hetero or binary gender normativity, but that's not the point of the story, either. It just IS, the same way there's air to breath. Ahhh, balm to my weary soul....
October 10, 2020
Ever wanted to be whisked away from the mundane world to a secluded island full of magic and trouble?
In this wonderful magical story we get an unlikely friendship between an ancient prince averse to magic and a reckless witch that blossoms into something beautiful. More than an amazing fantasy story full of magic, ‘Lava Red Feather Blue’ is a story of love. Not a perfect fairytale love but a truthful and touching love. Seeing Merrick and Larkin’s desire and affection for the other grow while they relentlessly kept on bickering was an entertaining ride.
It’s a captivating queer story set on an island where queerness, just like magic, is simply part of their world. There is no homophobia and nobody's asking why Merrick’s sibling, Cassidy, uses they/them pronouns. Which for me as a queer reader was a lovely escapism read. It's nice to also have stories where queerness is an integral part of it, without it revolving around homophobia or identity issues.
When it comes to the villain though, I have to say I was a little bit disappointed. Ula Kana was introduced as a really scary and powerful fae, but when she was pursuing our protagonists through the fae realm it always felt like she was pretty easily held off. It did at times feel like she was only there to place our heroes into certain situations and love tropes. Which let's be real, I did really enjoy our two lovers being put in these particular situations... But all that did amount to making the villain feel a bit weak.
So more than it being a fantasy story—although the story is definitely rich in worldbuilding and the magical—it was in big parts a romance story following two interesting protagonists with different views and personalities. And it was their journey of getting to know each other, understand each other and fall in love with each other.
I do feel like with al the worldbuilding that this story could have easily been expanded and developed a bit more and made into a series (even just a duology). I think this story, this rich world and these characters, especially Merrick, would have deserved expanding. A lot of focus is put on Larkin and how he copes with the modern world and losing his life from before and I think a series would have helped giving more background and focus to Merrick who was a lovely an interesting protagonist.
Overall a fun and entertaining read that I definitely recommend. Thank you NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for sending me an ARC in return of an honest review.
In this wonderful magical story we get an unlikely friendship between an ancient prince averse to magic and a reckless witch that blossoms into something beautiful. More than an amazing fantasy story full of magic, ‘Lava Red Feather Blue’ is a story of love. Not a perfect fairytale love but a truthful and touching love. Seeing Merrick and Larkin’s desire and affection for the other grow while they relentlessly kept on bickering was an entertaining ride.
It’s a captivating queer story set on an island where queerness, just like magic, is simply part of their world. There is no homophobia and nobody's asking why Merrick’s sibling, Cassidy, uses they/them pronouns. Which for me as a queer reader was a lovely escapism read. It's nice to also have stories where queerness is an integral part of it, without it revolving around homophobia or identity issues.
When it comes to the villain though, I have to say I was a little bit disappointed. Ula Kana was introduced as a really scary and powerful fae, but when she was pursuing our protagonists through the fae realm it always felt like she was pretty easily held off. It did at times feel like she was only there to place our heroes into certain situations and love tropes. Which let's be real, I did really enjoy our two lovers being put in these particular situations... But all that did amount to making the villain feel a bit weak.
So more than it being a fantasy story—although the story is definitely rich in worldbuilding and the magical—it was in big parts a romance story following two interesting protagonists with different views and personalities. And it was their journey of getting to know each other, understand each other and fall in love with each other.
I do feel like with al the worldbuilding that this story could have easily been expanded and developed a bit more and made into a series (even just a duology). I think this story, this rich world and these characters, especially Merrick, would have deserved expanding. A lot of focus is put on Larkin and how he copes with the modern world and losing his life from before and I think a series would have helped giving more background and focus to Merrick who was a lovely an interesting protagonist.
Overall a fun and entertaining read that I definitely recommend. Thank you NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for sending me an ARC in return of an honest review.
November 9, 2020
This read was a 3 solid stars for me.
I would normally be jumping from joy, I mean, a fantasy and also queer? Yes, please! But alas, I was a little bit disappointed.
I felt very lost at the beginning, the story throws a lot of information and terms at you in ways of world building and it takes a while to get the hang of it.
The pace was very fast and I had very little time to get attached to the characters and because I was bombarded with so much information, Larkin and Merrick’s meeting was entirely predictable and the romance not believable for me.
The actions scenes descriptions were also very vague and while they were entertaining to read, I still don’t understand how the participants looked and moved.
Now with the good.
While I didn’t get the chance to get attached to the characters, the story was entertaining and had a lot of potential. The world, while confusing at first, was very interesting and intricate and I wish I could have read more about it.
I liked that I was never sure about the ending and even if it was in the range of possibilities it surprised me.
—-
Thanks to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC.
I would normally be jumping from joy, I mean, a fantasy and also queer? Yes, please! But alas, I was a little bit disappointed.
I felt very lost at the beginning, the story throws a lot of information and terms at you in ways of world building and it takes a while to get the hang of it.
The pace was very fast and I had very little time to get attached to the characters and because I was bombarded with so much information, Larkin and Merrick’s meeting was entirely predictable and the romance not believable for me.
The actions scenes descriptions were also very vague and while they were entertaining to read, I still don’t understand how the participants looked and moved.
Now with the good.
While I didn’t get the chance to get attached to the characters, the story was entertaining and had a lot of potential. The world, while confusing at first, was very interesting and intricate and I wish I could have read more about it.
I liked that I was never sure about the ending and even if it was in the range of possibilities it surprised me.
—-
Thanks to NetGalley for supplying me with an ARC.
October 10, 2021
First of all can we take a minute to enjoy and appreciate what a beautiful cover this book has? 5/5 on that department.!
A sleeping beauty retelling with the main couple being M/M and fairy lore thrown in between, the concept is as intriguing as it sounds. Sadly it took a bit of time for me to get into the story, the pacing was a bit weird and slow at the beginning and I personally couldnt connect with the characters. }
I enjoyed the story as a whole and found that even if I couldnt connect, the way the story is told is fun and entertaingin. The most interesting part was seeing the prince interacting with the modern world,! so much fun.
Altho not a perfect story it certainly gets extra points for being an LGBTQ story that doesnt make that the center theme and where the characters are just who they are with out their sexuality being the onlhy motivation behind anything!!
overall: an enjoyable story!
Many thanks to NetGalley for granting me access to this ARC.
A sleeping beauty retelling with the main couple being M/M and fairy lore thrown in between, the concept is as intriguing as it sounds. Sadly it took a bit of time for me to get into the story, the pacing was a bit weird and slow at the beginning and I personally couldnt connect with the characters. }
I enjoyed the story as a whole and found that even if I couldnt connect, the way the story is told is fun and entertaingin. The most interesting part was seeing the prince interacting with the modern world,! so much fun.
Altho not a perfect story it certainly gets extra points for being an LGBTQ story that doesnt make that the center theme and where the characters are just who they are with out their sexuality being the onlhy motivation behind anything!!
overall: an enjoyable story!
Many thanks to NetGalley for granting me access to this ARC.
January 18, 2021
Creo que es una historia buena/decente. Mi problema ha estado en la incapacidad que tuve de conectar con los protas y en el romance. Ugh, ni siquiera me hagan hablar de ese.
El villano no me encanta, pero no es demasiado malo. Presentaba un reto, sí; pero por alguna razón cuando estaba frente a los protas prefería hablar que atacar 🙄🥴. Así es como pierden los villanos de la fantasía de hoy día: hablan más de lo que hacen.
El mundo me gusta. El sistema de magia no fue totalmente explicado, pero creo que funciona con la historia y los personajes que nos dan.
Hablando de personajes, la autora ha representado a Larkin como Xiao Zhan 😍😍. Y cuando hablamos de Xiao Zhan, obvio pienso en Wei Wuxian y en conejitos (quien diga que Xiao Zhan no parece un conejito, queda eliminado de mi vida, ahre). De esa forma, yas, amé un poco más a Larkin. Sorry not sorry.
El villano no me encanta, pero no es demasiado malo. Presentaba un reto, sí; pero por alguna razón cuando estaba frente a los protas prefería hablar que atacar 🙄🥴. Así es como pierden los villanos de la fantasía de hoy día: hablan más de lo que hacen.
El mundo me gusta. El sistema de magia no fue totalmente explicado, pero creo que funciona con la historia y los personajes que nos dan.
Hablando de personajes, la autora ha representado a Larkin como Xiao Zhan 😍😍. Y cuando hablamos de Xiao Zhan, obvio pienso en Wei Wuxian y en conejitos (quien diga que Xiao Zhan no parece un conejito, queda eliminado de mi vida, ahre). De esa forma, yas, amé un poco más a Larkin. Sorry not sorry.
January 6, 2021
Review based on ARC provided by the publisher
I wanted to really like this queer fantasy, but....
The world-building is pretty generic. The dialogue felt stilted and was weighed down with information during the first part of the book. When the two MCs finally met and went on their quest the pacing was a bit better and the story was easier to follow, but it was peppered with unreasonable decisions by the MCs.
I should mention that the author stated that queer is not the focal point of the story and she managed this very well.
I wanted to really like this queer fantasy, but....
The world-building is pretty generic. The dialogue felt stilted and was weighed down with information during the first part of the book. When the two MCs finally met and went on their quest the pacing was a bit better and the story was easier to follow, but it was peppered with unreasonable decisions by the MCs.
I should mention that the author stated that queer is not the focal point of the story and she managed this very well.
February 11, 2021
What a fantastic book!! Gorgeous worldbuilding, wonderful characters, and a fantastic plot. For my fantasy lovers, this is a must read. Also it’s very queer!!
December 5, 2020
Lava Red Feather Blue is a fun fairytale-esque gay-themed fantasy that takes place in Eidolonia. In this world, the fae realm and the human realm are separated by a border, though many of the inhabitants intermingle. In this world, magic and faeries are commonplace, and peace between the two domains is maintained because of prince Larkin and the evil and powerful fae queen Ula Kana, both of whom were placed under an enchanted slumber in the year 1799. As long as they’re both asleep, the human realm is safe.
The story follows our main character, Merrick Highvalley, a modern-day-witch who is half-fae and a descendant of the original witch who cast the spell placing prince Larkin and Ula Kana into their slumber. When Merrick inadvertently awakens the sleeping prince, chaos ensues because when Larkin awoke, so did Ula Kana, and she is determined to destroy the human realm.
Larkin and Merrick then embark together on a potentially deadly plan to stop the evil queen, and as the story moves forward, their connection to each other deepens. I really loved the chemistry between these two very different characters, and it was fun watching them fall for each other while they both attempted to fight their attraction. I also enjoyed watching Larkin try to adjust to the new century, given that he’d been asleep for 200 years. It gave me a chuckle several times, watching him trying to differentiate between magic and technology. The banter and flirting between the two of them were also lighthearted and comical.
Another thing I enjoyed about the story was how there was no homophobia by either society or anyone’s family — being gay was just automatically accepted by everyone. Additionally, one of Merrick’s siblings was non-binary, which was also universally accepted, so I really enjoyed the representation.
Additionally, I thought the world-building and the magic system in this story were phenomenal. The author really brought the story to life because of the atmospheric and lush descriptions. The tale was moody and immersive, giving me the feeling that I was right there along with the characters.
Ringle has created here a cleverly crafted new world that I wanted to lose myself in. It’s a story featuring a great cast of believable characters, a compelling world, an intriguing political and magical system, and a satisfying conclusion. It’s a dark and fascinating tale — a beautifully woven magical adventure of two desperate souls who enter into a strange new world.
As an extra treat, the author included a section at the end of the book explaining the mythologies behind the names of the characters — both human and fae — as well
as the names for the various places in the story.
A huge thank you to Netgalley for providing a review copy of this book.
The story follows our main character, Merrick Highvalley, a modern-day-witch who is half-fae and a descendant of the original witch who cast the spell placing prince Larkin and Ula Kana into their slumber. When Merrick inadvertently awakens the sleeping prince, chaos ensues because when Larkin awoke, so did Ula Kana, and she is determined to destroy the human realm.
Larkin and Merrick then embark together on a potentially deadly plan to stop the evil queen, and as the story moves forward, their connection to each other deepens. I really loved the chemistry between these two very different characters, and it was fun watching them fall for each other while they both attempted to fight their attraction. I also enjoyed watching Larkin try to adjust to the new century, given that he’d been asleep for 200 years. It gave me a chuckle several times, watching him trying to differentiate between magic and technology. The banter and flirting between the two of them were also lighthearted and comical.
Another thing I enjoyed about the story was how there was no homophobia by either society or anyone’s family — being gay was just automatically accepted by everyone. Additionally, one of Merrick’s siblings was non-binary, which was also universally accepted, so I really enjoyed the representation.
Additionally, I thought the world-building and the magic system in this story were phenomenal. The author really brought the story to life because of the atmospheric and lush descriptions. The tale was moody and immersive, giving me the feeling that I was right there along with the characters.
Ringle has created here a cleverly crafted new world that I wanted to lose myself in. It’s a story featuring a great cast of believable characters, a compelling world, an intriguing political and magical system, and a satisfying conclusion. It’s a dark and fascinating tale — a beautifully woven magical adventure of two desperate souls who enter into a strange new world.
As an extra treat, the author included a section at the end of the book explaining the mythologies behind the names of the characters — both human and fae — as well
as the names for the various places in the story.
A huge thank you to Netgalley for providing a review copy of this book.
January 22, 2021
Lava Red Feather Blue is a cute and light read with some humorous moments that kept me entertained and interested throughout. Though billed as an adult fantasy, I would classify this as a new adult read as Merrick, one of the protagonists, appears a bit immature for his age and felt more of an early twenties character than near thirties. Based on content, it is a bit above the level of an average YA read, though more mature readers of the YA audience would do fine with it.
The writing was good and comfortable for me. I found it adequately descriptive, though I could have used a bit more world-building and physical character descriptions. This was particularly true for me with regard to the fae world. However, I did very much appreciate the inclusion of different species and their customs. Also of note was the attention to modern conveniences as experienced by Larkin, who had been in a magically-induced sleep for over 200 years. The address of his exposure to technology was both realistically and humorously handled.
The relationship between Larkin and Merrick is cute and fun. It is a bit instalove-y in the fact that it is fairly predictable, but the progression of the relationship is well-handled and interesting. Their interactions gave me a few good laughs along with some warm fuzzies. Their banter was particularly fantastic.
In fact, the majority of the characters and their interactions were great, with Merrick and Larkin being particularly well fleshed out. The only characters that felt extraneous to me were Merrick's sibling and niece, who provided a relationship for Merrick, but not much else. They did not appear to serve the plot in much of a substantial way and could have been utilized more. This also may have helped to expand the importance of Merrick's involvement in the perfumery. I found the occupation interesting, but there wasn't a lot of exposition explaining what he did or showing how they did it. It would have been a fun inclusion for me.
The author handled diversity and LGBT+ representation wonderfully. Unlike a lot of novels with rep, diverse sexuality does not take center stage in a way that works as a plot device, it simply exists as a matter of course. This was pleasantly refreshing and I appreciated the lack of a heavy hand.
Though I enjoyed the world and would definitely be keen on exploring it more, this novel is a standalone and it does well as one. The plot is constructed nicely and the pacing is great. There is enough action to sustain the narrative from beginning to end. The ending is good and wraps up nicely. I will admit that there is some convenience factor in the final pieces of exposition, but it was fun to read and had a very satisfying resolution. Definitely recommend, especially for readers of light fantasy or those who wish to introduce themselves to fantasy.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
The writing was good and comfortable for me. I found it adequately descriptive, though I could have used a bit more world-building and physical character descriptions. This was particularly true for me with regard to the fae world. However, I did very much appreciate the inclusion of different species and their customs. Also of note was the attention to modern conveniences as experienced by Larkin, who had been in a magically-induced sleep for over 200 years. The address of his exposure to technology was both realistically and humorously handled.
The relationship between Larkin and Merrick is cute and fun. It is a bit instalove-y in the fact that it is fairly predictable, but the progression of the relationship is well-handled and interesting. Their interactions gave me a few good laughs along with some warm fuzzies. Their banter was particularly fantastic.
In fact, the majority of the characters and their interactions were great, with Merrick and Larkin being particularly well fleshed out. The only characters that felt extraneous to me were Merrick's sibling and niece, who provided a relationship for Merrick, but not much else. They did not appear to serve the plot in much of a substantial way and could have been utilized more. This also may have helped to expand the importance of Merrick's involvement in the perfumery. I found the occupation interesting, but there wasn't a lot of exposition explaining what he did or showing how they did it. It would have been a fun inclusion for me.
The author handled diversity and LGBT+ representation wonderfully. Unlike a lot of novels with rep, diverse sexuality does not take center stage in a way that works as a plot device, it simply exists as a matter of course. This was pleasantly refreshing and I appreciated the lack of a heavy hand.
Though I enjoyed the world and would definitely be keen on exploring it more, this novel is a standalone and it does well as one. The plot is constructed nicely and the pacing is great. There is enough action to sustain the narrative from beginning to end. The ending is good and wraps up nicely. I will admit that there is some convenience factor in the final pieces of exposition, but it was fun to read and had a very satisfying resolution. Definitely recommend, especially for readers of light fantasy or those who wish to introduce themselves to fantasy.
* Disclaimer: I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. *
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