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shelfcarewithjess 's review for:
Dark Fae
by Susanne Valenti, Caroline Peckham
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.3/5)
Synopsis (No Spoilers):
Dark Fae kicks off the Ruthless Boys of the Zodiac series, a dark reverse harem fantasy romance set in the brutal, magical world readers might recognize from Zodiac Academy. It follows a tough, determined heroine who navigates a savage magical academy filled with rivalries, danger, and deadly secrets - all while drawing the attention of not just one, but several powerful, dangerous love interests. Magic, mystery, brutal trials, and intense, slow-burn romance collide as alliances are formed and hearts (and bodies) are claimed. Expect emotional scars, twisted loyalties, and a lot of deliciously tense chemistry.
Full Review:
After loving Zodiac Academy, I went into Dark Fae with really high expectations - and honestly, it didn't hit quite the same way for me. I think part of that might be down to having overdone the Zodiac universe a bit, because the familiar worldbuilding and vibe felt less exciting this time around.
After loving Zodiac Academy, I went into Dark Fae with really high expectations - and honestly, it didn't hit quite the same way for me. I think part of that might be down to having overdone the Zodiac universe a bit, because the familiar worldbuilding and vibe felt less exciting this time around.
That said, Dark Fae has all the classic Peckham and Valenti ingredients: tension, grit, sass, and emotional scars layered beneath hardened exteriors. It's still a solid, easy read that I'll keep in mind for when I need a fast-paced, angsty fantasy fix without having to concentrate too hard.
I didn’t connect as strongly with the characters yet, but there were moments of strong writing and emotional vulnerability that stood out - especially when it came to themes of resilience and building strength from trauma. I think the series has a lot of potential once I’m in the right mood for it.
🌟 Favourite Quotes:
🖤 "I can see the cracks in the perfection. I can see the poison that’s tainting your essence. And every break, every scar and burn and fissure in your soul only makes it more beautiful."
🖤 "Your father may have forged you into the man you are, but I built myself up into the woman I am."
🖤 "She loved a book more than she loved sex."
🖤 "Buckle up bitch. Here goes nothing.
🖤 "Your father may have forged you into the man you are, but I built myself up into the woman I am."
🖤 "She loved a book more than she loved sex."
🖤 "Buckle up bitch. Here goes nothing.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Self harm, Violence, Grief
Moderate: Bullying, Emotional abuse