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The Oak and Holly Cycle #2
The Robin on the Oak Throne
Can you trust the dark when you know that it lies?
Kierse McKenna just shattered the Monster Treaty. Again.
It wasn’t entirely her fault. The job was supposed to be simple: steal a goblin-made bracelet off of the Queen of the Nymphs in her own palace. Trade the bracelet for a way to uncover the truth about her past. Except everything goes sideways.
And then he shows up to save her.
Graves—the warlock who ensnared her, betrayed her, and left her to fend for herself. He’s a villain. A monster draped in charm and shadows. And gods help her, he always knows exactly what she wants.
But Graves never does anything for free. He has a job for his favorite little thief. One that will pit her against the most powerful monsters in existence, including his mortal enemy, the Oak King.
An ancient artifact has been located, and only together can they hope to steal it. She just has to let him in.
But once she lets a monster in, he’s impossible to forget… and even harder to resist.
Kierse McKenna just shattered the Monster Treaty. Again.
It wasn’t entirely her fault. The job was supposed to be simple: steal a goblin-made bracelet off of the Queen of the Nymphs in her own palace. Trade the bracelet for a way to uncover the truth about her past. Except everything goes sideways.
And then he shows up to save her.
Graves—the warlock who ensnared her, betrayed her, and left her to fend for herself. He’s a villain. A monster draped in charm and shadows. And gods help her, he always knows exactly what she wants.
But Graves never does anything for free. He has a job for his favorite little thief. One that will pit her against the most powerful monsters in existence, including his mortal enemy, the Oak King.
An ancient artifact has been located, and only together can they hope to steal it. She just has to let him in.
But once she lets a monster in, he’s impossible to forget… and even harder to resist.
400 pages, Hardcover
First published June 17, 2025
1125 people are currently reading
25412 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Linde
97 books10.9k followersK.A. Linde is the New York Times, USA Today, #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wren in the Holly Library. She is prolific in both romance and fantasy and loves the blend of the two.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
She has a Masters degree in political science and bachelors in philosophy from the University of Georgia. In her previous life, she was a head campaign worker for a presidential campaign and the coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, traveling to far-off destinations, and dancing in her spare time.
She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband, and son.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 730 reviews
Want to read
May 1, 2025Look at me, K. A; you're not like this. You're not gonna pull a SJM here. You're gonna make this an allies-to-lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers because that is what we need. We don't want a new love interest and you're not even thinking of doing that. You're smart. You can do it.
June 15, 2025
Wow. Just wow. What a book! Definitely one of my favourites of the year.
The Robin on the Oak Throne is a complete rollercoaster of heists, glamorous events, electric chemistry and spice, magic, monsters, and so much more! It's fun, funny, devastating and heart-breaking, with so many twists and turns. At its core there are more serious themes of trust, betrayal, consent, agency, past abuse, healing, family and love. I loved Kierse, Graves, and the whole host of brilliant side characters and found family. You're going to hate a few characters too, trust me. There was wonderful character growth and choosing to actively change their behaviour. And so many great LGBT+ characters.
I raced through the chapters each day, and yes, I did break on Day 5 and binge read to the end. But how could I not? Book 3 ASAP please!
The Robin on the Oak Throne is a complete rollercoaster of heists, glamorous events, electric chemistry and spice, magic, monsters, and so much more! It's fun, funny, devastating and heart-breaking, with so many twists and turns. At its core there are more serious themes of trust, betrayal, consent, agency, past abuse, healing, family and love. I loved Kierse, Graves, and the whole host of brilliant side characters and found family. You're going to hate a few characters too, trust me. There was wonderful character growth and choosing to actively change their behaviour. And so many great LGBT+ characters.
I raced through the chapters each day, and yes, I did break on Day 5 and binge read to the end. But how could I not? Book 3 ASAP please!
October 14, 2024
CAN NOT WAIT!!!
Wren In The Holly Library was one of my top 2024 reads so I’m counting down the days until this second book comes out!
Wren In The Holly Library was one of my top 2024 reads so I’m counting down the days until this second book comes out!
June 30, 2025
That ending was rude.
June 18, 2025
The second installment opens with Kierse breaking the Monster Treaty once again—this time stealing a goblin-made bracelet from the Queen of the Nymphs in her own palace. Yet what begins as a seemingly straightforward heist becomes the catalyst for a much larger exploration of power, identity, and the cost of truth. Linde demonstrates remarkable growth in her worldbuilding, expanding the scope from the contained drama of New York's supernatural underworld to a European landscape where ancient Celtic magic pulses beneath modern sensibilities.
The Evolution of Kierse McKenna
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of this novel is watching Kierse grapple with the revelations from the first book while navigating increasingly complex moral terrain. No longer the confused thief discovering her magical heritage, Kierse has evolved into a formidable character who must reconcile her past trauma with her growing power as a half-wisp. Linde skillfully balances Kierse's vulnerability—particularly in scenes involving recovered memories of her parents—with her fierce independence and survival instincts.
The memory sequences, revealed through her magical connection with Graves, serve as some of the novel's most emotionally resonant moments. When Kierse finally witnesses the truth about her parents' fate, Linde's prose becomes almost lyrical in its restraint, allowing the emotional weight to speak for itself rather than overwhelming readers with melodrama. The recovery of her father's hunting knife—"blessed by the Fae" and bearing a Trinity Knot—becomes a powerful symbol of her reclaimed identity.
The Holly King's Redemption Arc
Graves remains one of fantasy romance's most intriguing antiheroes. His centuries-old conflict with Lorcan, the Oak King, provides the mythological backbone that elevates this series beyond typical urban fantasy fare. Linde excels at peeling back layers of his character without completely removing the dangerous edge that makes him compelling. His relationship with Kierse has matured from the manipulative dynamic of the first book into something more complex—a partnership built on mutual respect, shared trauma, and genuine affection.
The scenes between Graves and Kierse crackle with tension that feels both romantic and adversarial. Their chemistry is undeniable, yet Linde never lets readers forget the power imbalances and past betrayals that complicate their connection. When Graves admits to hiding Kierse's true identity, the revelation doesn't feel like a cheap plot twist but rather an inevitable consequence of his protective instincts warring with his manipulative nature.
Lorcan Flynn: The Seductive Antagonist
If Graves is shadow and winter, Lorcan Flynn embodies the dangerous allure of summer and growth. As the Oak King and leader of the Druidic Order, he presents perhaps one of the most sophisticated antagonists in recent fantasy literature. His offer to Kierse—a place beside him on the Oak Throne, reunification with her chosen family, access to wisp knowledge—isn't simply villainous scheming but represents a genuinely appealing alternative to her current path.
Linde's portrayal of Lorcan's Brooklyn stronghold, with its magical oak throne room that exists as a pocket of ancient Ireland, showcases her ability to blend urban fantasy with high fantasy elements seamlessly. The scenes where Kierse explores this sanctuary feel mythic and intimate simultaneously, highlighting the author's skill at creating spaces that serve both plot function and emotional resonance.
The revelation that Niamh serves as Lorcan's "robin"—the Oak King's equivalent to Kierse's role as Graves's "wren"—adds another layer of complexity to the mythology while deepening the sense of cosmic balance that drives the Celtic seasonal magic system.
Supporting Characters and World Expansion
The supporting cast has grown more nuanced and integral to the plot. Gen and Ethan's development as High Priestess and Druid respectively provides emotional stakes beyond the central romance, while their triskel bond with Kierse creates opportunities for magical cooperation that feel organic rather than convenient. The friendship dynamics feel authentic, particularly Gen's concerns about Kierse's safety and Ethan's struggle to balance loyalty to his friends with his Druidic training.
Nate's continued presence as a werewolf ally navigating the political complexities of Monster politics adds depth to the worldbuilding, while new characters like Laz and Isolde expand the sense of Graves having a life and history beyond his obsession with Kierse and Lorcan.
Mythological Depth and Celtic Magic
Linde's incorporation of Celtic mythology goes far beyond surface-level appropriation. The Oak and Holly King cycle, traditionally representing the eternal struggle between summer and winter, becomes a deeply personal conflict between two characters whose centuries-old enmity has shaped both their natures and the magical world around them. The author demonstrates clear research into Celtic lore while making it accessible to readers unfamiliar with the source material.
The magic system continues to impress with its internal consistency and emotional resonance. Kierse's absorption abilities, Graves's connection to knowledge and shadow, and Lorcan's nature magic all feel distinct while operating within a coherent magical framework. The seasonal aspects of their power—how the approaching solstice affects their abilities—creates natural tension and urgency within the plot structure.
Areas for Critical Assessment
While The Robin on the Oak Throne excels in character development and mythological depth, it occasionally suffers from pacing issues common to middle books in a series. The extensive setup for future conflicts sometimes slows the narrative momentum, particularly in the middle sections where characters spend considerable time in exposition-heavy conversations about magical politics and ancient history.
The romance, while compelling, occasionally overwhelms the plot progression. Some readers may find the will-they-won't-they dynamics between Kierse and both Graves and Lorcan somewhat repetitive, though the emotional authenticity of these relationships generally carries the romantic elements effectively.
Additionally, while the European setting provides fresh scenery, some of the cultural details feel less lived-in than the vividly realized New York supernatural community from the first book. The Paris sequences, while atmospherically described, lack the gritty authenticity that made the Brooklyn Druid compound so memorable.
Thematic Resonance
Beyond the surface-level romance and supernatural action, Linde explores themes of identity, trauma recovery, and the complexity of found family relationships. Kierse's journey involves not just discovering her magical heritage but learning to trust others after a childhood marked by abandonment and abuse. The parallel between her relationship with Graves—built on lies that were intended to protect—and her growing understanding of her parents' choices creates emotional depth that elevates the material.
The exploration of power dynamics, both romantic and political, feels particularly relevant. Neither Graves nor Lorcan can simply command Kierse's loyalty; she must choose her path based on her own values and desires. This agency makes her character compelling beyond her magical abilities.
Technical Craft and Writing Style
Linde's prose has matured considerably since the first book, showing greater confidence in both action sequences and intimate character moments. Her dialogue feels natural and distinct for each character, while her descriptive passages create vivid sensory experiences without overwhelming the narrative flow. The alternating perspectives and flashback sequences are handled skillfully, maintaining clarity while building emotional investment.
The author's handling of trauma, particularly Kierse's recovered memories and past experiences, demonstrates sensitivity and authenticity. Rather than exploiting traumatic elements for shock value, Linde uses them to deepen character understanding and motivation.
Final Verdict
The Robin on the Oak Throne succeeds as both a worthy sequel and a compelling standalone narrative within the Oak and Holly Cycle. While it occasionally struggles with the middle-book burden of setup and transition, its strengths—particularly in character development, mythological depth, and emotional authenticity—far outweigh its weaknesses.
Linde has crafted a story that honors its Celtic roots while creating something distinctly contemporary. The book rewards careful readers with its layered mythology and complex character relationships, while providing enough action and romance to satisfy those seeking pure entertainment. Most importantly, it sets up what promises to be an explosive conclusion to the trilogy while delivering a satisfying reading experience in its own right.
The Evolution of Kierse McKenna
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of this novel is watching Kierse grapple with the revelations from the first book while navigating increasingly complex moral terrain. No longer the confused thief discovering her magical heritage, Kierse has evolved into a formidable character who must reconcile her past trauma with her growing power as a half-wisp. Linde skillfully balances Kierse's vulnerability—particularly in scenes involving recovered memories of her parents—with her fierce independence and survival instincts.
The memory sequences, revealed through her magical connection with Graves, serve as some of the novel's most emotionally resonant moments. When Kierse finally witnesses the truth about her parents' fate, Linde's prose becomes almost lyrical in its restraint, allowing the emotional weight to speak for itself rather than overwhelming readers with melodrama. The recovery of her father's hunting knife—"blessed by the Fae" and bearing a Trinity Knot—becomes a powerful symbol of her reclaimed identity.
The Holly King's Redemption Arc
Graves remains one of fantasy romance's most intriguing antiheroes. His centuries-old conflict with Lorcan, the Oak King, provides the mythological backbone that elevates this series beyond typical urban fantasy fare. Linde excels at peeling back layers of his character without completely removing the dangerous edge that makes him compelling. His relationship with Kierse has matured from the manipulative dynamic of the first book into something more complex—a partnership built on mutual respect, shared trauma, and genuine affection.
The scenes between Graves and Kierse crackle with tension that feels both romantic and adversarial. Their chemistry is undeniable, yet Linde never lets readers forget the power imbalances and past betrayals that complicate their connection. When Graves admits to hiding Kierse's true identity, the revelation doesn't feel like a cheap plot twist but rather an inevitable consequence of his protective instincts warring with his manipulative nature.
Lorcan Flynn: The Seductive Antagonist
If Graves is shadow and winter, Lorcan Flynn embodies the dangerous allure of summer and growth. As the Oak King and leader of the Druidic Order, he presents perhaps one of the most sophisticated antagonists in recent fantasy literature. His offer to Kierse—a place beside him on the Oak Throne, reunification with her chosen family, access to wisp knowledge—isn't simply villainous scheming but represents a genuinely appealing alternative to her current path.
Linde's portrayal of Lorcan's Brooklyn stronghold, with its magical oak throne room that exists as a pocket of ancient Ireland, showcases her ability to blend urban fantasy with high fantasy elements seamlessly. The scenes where Kierse explores this sanctuary feel mythic and intimate simultaneously, highlighting the author's skill at creating spaces that serve both plot function and emotional resonance.
The revelation that Niamh serves as Lorcan's "robin"—the Oak King's equivalent to Kierse's role as Graves's "wren"—adds another layer of complexity to the mythology while deepening the sense of cosmic balance that drives the Celtic seasonal magic system.
Supporting Characters and World Expansion
The supporting cast has grown more nuanced and integral to the plot. Gen and Ethan's development as High Priestess and Druid respectively provides emotional stakes beyond the central romance, while their triskel bond with Kierse creates opportunities for magical cooperation that feel organic rather than convenient. The friendship dynamics feel authentic, particularly Gen's concerns about Kierse's safety and Ethan's struggle to balance loyalty to his friends with his Druidic training.
Nate's continued presence as a werewolf ally navigating the political complexities of Monster politics adds depth to the worldbuilding, while new characters like Laz and Isolde expand the sense of Graves having a life and history beyond his obsession with Kierse and Lorcan.
Mythological Depth and Celtic Magic
Linde's incorporation of Celtic mythology goes far beyond surface-level appropriation. The Oak and Holly King cycle, traditionally representing the eternal struggle between summer and winter, becomes a deeply personal conflict between two characters whose centuries-old enmity has shaped both their natures and the magical world around them. The author demonstrates clear research into Celtic lore while making it accessible to readers unfamiliar with the source material.
The magic system continues to impress with its internal consistency and emotional resonance. Kierse's absorption abilities, Graves's connection to knowledge and shadow, and Lorcan's nature magic all feel distinct while operating within a coherent magical framework. The seasonal aspects of their power—how the approaching solstice affects their abilities—creates natural tension and urgency within the plot structure.
Areas for Critical Assessment
While The Robin on the Oak Throne excels in character development and mythological depth, it occasionally suffers from pacing issues common to middle books in a series. The extensive setup for future conflicts sometimes slows the narrative momentum, particularly in the middle sections where characters spend considerable time in exposition-heavy conversations about magical politics and ancient history.
The romance, while compelling, occasionally overwhelms the plot progression. Some readers may find the will-they-won't-they dynamics between Kierse and both Graves and Lorcan somewhat repetitive, though the emotional authenticity of these relationships generally carries the romantic elements effectively.
Additionally, while the European setting provides fresh scenery, some of the cultural details feel less lived-in than the vividly realized New York supernatural community from the first book. The Paris sequences, while atmospherically described, lack the gritty authenticity that made the Brooklyn Druid compound so memorable.
Thematic Resonance
Beyond the surface-level romance and supernatural action, Linde explores themes of identity, trauma recovery, and the complexity of found family relationships. Kierse's journey involves not just discovering her magical heritage but learning to trust others after a childhood marked by abandonment and abuse. The parallel between her relationship with Graves—built on lies that were intended to protect—and her growing understanding of her parents' choices creates emotional depth that elevates the material.
The exploration of power dynamics, both romantic and political, feels particularly relevant. Neither Graves nor Lorcan can simply command Kierse's loyalty; she must choose her path based on her own values and desires. This agency makes her character compelling beyond her magical abilities.
Technical Craft and Writing Style
Linde's prose has matured considerably since the first book, showing greater confidence in both action sequences and intimate character moments. Her dialogue feels natural and distinct for each character, while her descriptive passages create vivid sensory experiences without overwhelming the narrative flow. The alternating perspectives and flashback sequences are handled skillfully, maintaining clarity while building emotional investment.
The author's handling of trauma, particularly Kierse's recovered memories and past experiences, demonstrates sensitivity and authenticity. Rather than exploiting traumatic elements for shock value, Linde uses them to deepen character understanding and motivation.
Final Verdict
The Robin on the Oak Throne succeeds as both a worthy sequel and a compelling standalone narrative within the Oak and Holly Cycle. While it occasionally struggles with the middle-book burden of setup and transition, its strengths—particularly in character development, mythological depth, and emotional authenticity—far outweigh its weaknesses.
Linde has crafted a story that honors its Celtic roots while creating something distinctly contemporary. The book rewards careful readers with its layered mythology and complex character relationships, while providing enough action and romance to satisfy those seeking pure entertainment. Most importantly, it sets up what promises to be an explosive conclusion to the trilogy while delivering a satisfying reading experience in its own right.
June 26, 2025
first half is strictly filler and was a slug to get through, the second half had me on the edge of my seat. I think this could have been a duology and now we have to wait for another book.. also i hate lorcan and that ending, im sad
July 4, 2025
3.5 Nate scene pissed me off
June 20, 2025
3.5⭐️
I found myself both interested and bored simultaneously through the first 75% of the book. For the second book in a series, there seemed to be a lot more world building happening under the guise of an info dump, making this read more like a bridging book, saving the action until the last 25% and setting up a third book for (hopefully) more actual plot progression.
I found myself both interested and bored simultaneously through the first 75% of the book. For the second book in a series, there seemed to be a lot more world building happening under the guise of an info dump, making this read more like a bridging book, saving the action until the last 25% and setting up a third book for (hopefully) more actual plot progression.
June 27, 2025
*deep breath* *aaaand out*
OoFDA. I am. Disappointed. Oof.
I’ve been looking forward to this release since I read the first one earlier this year and I feel so deflated and frustrated that I disliked this book as much as I did.
There’s a lot of things I’m feeling at the ending of this book but the ones I’ll home in on are as follows:
Suspension of disbelief- yall know me, I’m a passenger princess reader, head empty no thoughts. It takes almost nothing to suspend my disbelief. I believed almost nothing about this book and where this world went. Characters felt forced into situations that were seemingly disingenuous/ didn’t align with their previous actions. The world expanded in ways that didn’t make sense (which usually doesn’t even phase me but here I was literally 🤨). Even side characters felt false people written on a page that I couldn’t even begin to fathom being real people.
This plot was a nightmare- somehow everything and nothing happened all at the same time. I love an adventure. I love going places. I love schemes. I love heists. All of those things in this book just didn’t hit at all. We went to so many places that didn’t matter. We accomplished literally nothing. WHICH AGAIN I can totally get behind a book where we accomplish nothing, but at least give me something else to enjoy while we do nothing.
It bothers me to no end when the stakes are seemingly so high and then the story doesn’t actually commit to going somewhere crazy. There were so many stakes!!! For what!!?
My boy Graves. I love you so much and both of these stars are for you. You sexy grumpy man who’s not really a monster but is described as one. Thank you for your groveling even though it was super easily resolved and ended up not being an issue at all.
I have never ending respect for KA Linde as an author and a woman but I’m grumpy about this book.
Agh.
OoFDA. I am. Disappointed. Oof.
I’ve been looking forward to this release since I read the first one earlier this year and I feel so deflated and frustrated that I disliked this book as much as I did.
There’s a lot of things I’m feeling at the ending of this book but the ones I’ll home in on are as follows:
Suspension of disbelief- yall know me, I’m a passenger princess reader, head empty no thoughts. It takes almost nothing to suspend my disbelief. I believed almost nothing about this book and where this world went. Characters felt forced into situations that were seemingly disingenuous/ didn’t align with their previous actions. The world expanded in ways that didn’t make sense (which usually doesn’t even phase me but here I was literally 🤨). Even side characters felt false people written on a page that I couldn’t even begin to fathom being real people.
This plot was a nightmare- somehow everything and nothing happened all at the same time. I love an adventure. I love going places. I love schemes. I love heists. All of those things in this book just didn’t hit at all. We went to so many places that didn’t matter. We accomplished literally nothing. WHICH AGAIN I can totally get behind a book where we accomplish nothing, but at least give me something else to enjoy while we do nothing.
It bothers me to no end when the stakes are seemingly so high and then the story doesn’t actually commit to going somewhere crazy. There were so many stakes!!! For what!!?
My boy Graves. I love you so much and both of these stars are for you. You sexy grumpy man who’s not really a monster but is described as one. Thank you for your groveling even though it was super easily resolved and ended up not being an issue at all.
I have never ending respect for KA Linde as an author and a woman but I’m grumpy about this book.
Agh.
July 24, 2025
The first slow burned so that this book could burn! It had a lot more spicy-spice than the previous one. However, this story was a little slow for me in places and threw off the overall pacing of the book.
3.75/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
3.75/5 ⭐️
2/5 🌶️
July 13, 2025
I wasted a week reading this, and for what? A bad ending with a whiny FMC and the most boring MMC on the planet? For future reference: if you want me to hate the villain in the end, don’t make him the most interesting character on the page.
There was POTENTIAL for some really good twists and betrayal and instead it was reduced down to formulaic drivel that didn’t even deliver well on any of what it was trying to do.
2.5 stars because I finished it, but this book DRAGGED on relentlessly.
There was POTENTIAL for some really good twists and betrayal and instead it was reduced down to formulaic drivel that didn’t even deliver well on any of what it was trying to do.
2.5 stars because I finished it, but this book DRAGGED on relentlessly.
Want to read
March 28, 2025So glad we finally have a synopsis and I’m so excited for our main couple to be reunited 😍
July 30, 2025
This was my first ever 1 star cuz wtf was that?
What was the entire thing with lorcan cuz if hes her soulmate pull an acotar and make him the good guy not whatever thats shit was. U cant have us liking lorcan and then doing that. Like fuck no
And even before this. I tried to like the book i rlly did. But it did not hook me in the slightest. At first i just pushed forward saying that its cuz i barely remember the first one cuz its been a while since i read it. But no, the book itself just was not it for me
I did love nate tho. Oh wait then ofc they gotta kill him.
I hope that if u read this book u enjoy it more than i did.
Enjoy 😘
What was the entire thing with lorcan cuz if hes her soulmate pull an acotar and make him the good guy not whatever thats shit was. U cant have us liking lorcan and then doing that. Like fuck no
And even before this. I tried to like the book i rlly did. But it did not hook me in the slightest. At first i just pushed forward saying that its cuz i barely remember the first one cuz its been a while since i read it. But no, the book itself just was not it for me
I did love nate tho. Oh wait then ofc they gotta kill him.
I hope that if u read this book u enjoy it more than i did.
Enjoy 😘
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
So good!! Unlike the first book this one did on a cliffhanger… so I will be eager for the next release! So much action, suspense, and again.. magic. I loved it. But I need the next book yesterday
June 18, 2025
I’m screaming. I felt every emotion in this book. There were ups and downs. Also great progression in character development, plot, and world building. I loved reading it. I’m sad I now have to wait again!
July 15, 2025
The beginning half dragged but I was already invested in these characters. The second half was great and I can’t wait for the next book.
June 7, 2025
I’m genuinely excited! I really enjoyed The Holly Library, though I finished it feeling like the series had even more potential waiting to unfold. After reading the preview of Oak Throne provided by NetGalley, I’m thrilled to say—it looks like it absolutely will. Everything I loved about the first book is shining even brighter in this sequel. I can’t wait to jump back into another mission with Graves and his Wren.
My only gripe isn’t with the book itself, but with the format of the preview. It feels strange to receive only a partial version, especially so close to the official release. It comes across more like a quick attempt to secure early reviews than a meaningful reading experience. I’ll definitely be reading the full novel once it’s out, but I’m not sure how I feel about this new trend of releasing previews on NetGalley. It just doesn’t sit quite right with me.
My only gripe isn’t with the book itself, but with the format of the preview. It feels strange to receive only a partial version, especially so close to the official release. It comes across more like a quick attempt to secure early reviews than a meaningful reading experience. I’ll definitely be reading the full novel once it’s out, but I’m not sure how I feel about this new trend of releasing previews on NetGalley. It just doesn’t sit quite right with me.
July 14, 2025
not quite 3 stars but not quite 4 stars
fun and entertaining, and a series I’ll definitely continue, but the pacing was a little off, some things developed too fast and I wiiiished for a slightly different direction
fun and entertaining, and a series I’ll definitely continue, but the pacing was a little off, some things developed too fast and I wiiiished for a slightly different direction
December 18, 2024
Recently finished 'Wren', and I NEED this ASAP!
June 19, 2025
The romance took a weird turn.
June 22, 2025
2.25
The last 25% was super action packed but so much of it felt rushed/forced/random.
I found myself bored during the first 50-75%. The 3rd isn’t out yet but I have a feeling I’m going to think this trilogy should have just been a duology. I didn’t hate anything but I just felt myself sitting there reading it and thinking ‘nothing is happening’ OR ‘none of this seems to matter or be important’ or ‘I don’t understand why that character is doing this or acting this way’.
Also, info dumping in the 2nd book by basically just telling us the info annoyed me. Again, nothing HUGE where I was fully taken out and nothing I full on hated but many things were frustrating. I just felt uninterested during large chunks and although you learned more about characters I cared less and less. Motivations of characters is all over the map too. I didn’t buy decisions multiple characters made based on how they had been developed over the two books.
Another thing that bugs me in any fantasy book is when stakes are built up and then they don’t actually seem to have a payoff or real weight to them. I felt that here too. Things that were made to be a big deal, risks, dangers when completing missions, injuries/aftermath, etc. always just seemed to be made a bigger deal or talked up and then what actually came about wasn’t monumental and felt irrelevant. Unsure if I’ll read the 3rd.
The special edition is pretty.
The last 25% was super action packed but so much of it felt rushed/forced/random.
I found myself bored during the first 50-75%. The 3rd isn’t out yet but I have a feeling I’m going to think this trilogy should have just been a duology. I didn’t hate anything but I just felt myself sitting there reading it and thinking ‘nothing is happening’ OR ‘none of this seems to matter or be important’ or ‘I don’t understand why that character is doing this or acting this way’.
Also, info dumping in the 2nd book by basically just telling us the info annoyed me. Again, nothing HUGE where I was fully taken out and nothing I full on hated but many things were frustrating. I just felt uninterested during large chunks and although you learned more about characters I cared less and less. Motivations of characters is all over the map too. I didn’t buy decisions multiple characters made based on how they had been developed over the two books.
Another thing that bugs me in any fantasy book is when stakes are built up and then they don’t actually seem to have a payoff or real weight to them. I felt that here too. Things that were made to be a big deal, risks, dangers when completing missions, injuries/aftermath, etc. always just seemed to be made a bigger deal or talked up and then what actually came about wasn’t monumental and felt irrelevant. Unsure if I’ll read the 3rd.
The special edition is pretty.
July 16, 2025
I enjoyed this book better than the first book so I’m tempted to give it 4 Stars. However, two issues hold me to 3.5 Stars. Whereas the first book taught me some of the lore behind the Holly and the Oak, I was bothered by the lack of any further Celtic lore or explanation in this edition. I wanted more of that knowledge! I was also disappointed that what I thought was a two book series is clearly not.
June 26, 2025
I really wanted to like this book, but it's not for me. I was on the fence when I finished the Wren in the Holly Library (Book One), I should have stopped there. I just feel like this story is all over the place! We have monsters, fairies, and don't forget the trolls and vampires.... seriously why don't we just throw everything at the wall and see what sticks. It's a "no" for me.
July 20, 2025
I loved this book so much. I loved learning more about the lore. I love the Celtic Mythology something different then anything I've read previously. I am so glad that Graves is the person we wanted him to be. The ending seriously OMG what a gut punch. Lorcan was always that guy that seemed to good to be true and that there was something off. To have that story unfold with the extra twist, 😲. I cannot wait for more!!!! The 🔥👨🍳💋
I received the first 8 chapters from Entangled Publishing and Netgalley. All opinions are my own. I completed the book on audio and absolutely loved the narrators.
I received the first 8 chapters from Entangled Publishing and Netgalley. All opinions are my own. I completed the book on audio and absolutely loved the narrators.
July 18, 2025
2.5 rounded up, I guess. I will not be continuing with this series so when the next one comes out, someone just tell me how it ends cause I can't handle these characters.
June 28, 2025
5(♾️)⭐️
Ho amato ogni singolo capitolo di questo libro, è diventato una tra i miei preferiti.
Il rapporto tra Graves e Kierse si rafforza e diventa una cosa bellissima, ho molto spesso ODIATO Locan, ho sclerato, ho pianto (il finale 😭) e ho dovuto chiudere il libro 800 volte perchè non credevo a ció che leggevo.
Iniziate questa trilogia (speriamo arrivi presto il terzo) perchè vi entrerà dentro e vi cambierà l’approccio che avete coi fantasy!!
Ho amato ogni singolo capitolo di questo libro, è diventato una tra i miei preferiti.
Il rapporto tra Graves e Kierse si rafforza e diventa una cosa bellissima, ho molto spesso ODIATO Locan, ho sclerato, ho pianto (il finale 😭) e ho dovuto chiudere il libro 800 volte perchè non credevo a ció che leggevo.
Iniziate questa trilogia (speriamo arrivi presto il terzo) perchè vi entrerà dentro e vi cambierà l’approccio che avete coi fantasy!!
July 12, 2025
I’m conflicted..I don’t know which MMC to trust or who I can even believe anymore.
I adore this story. It’s fun and fast and romantic. The human and monster war is new and unique.
I’m scared for book 3. But I also can’t wait.
I adore this story. It’s fun and fast and romantic. The human and monster war is new and unique.
I’m scared for book 3. But I also can’t wait.
July 19, 2025
That was incredibly exciting! I was so happy to be back in this alt monster universe with Kierse. I feel like she’s an easy FMC to be “friends” with, even if she can maybe be a little passive aggressive in her speech. I appreciate Linde took us to Ireland in the beginning, so we jetset around with Kierse and Graves.
I really love the authentic dialogue that Linde creates between all her characters. And there are many characters, but they don’t feel overwhelming in number. The magic in this world is getting trickier, more complex, but some questions that as a reader were floating in your mind for the first book get answered in this second book!
And I HAVE to dedicate a paragraph to the spice! 🌶️���️🌶️🔥 Woohoo! It took me by surprise, the amount of it in the book (which is not too much, but satisfyingly enough) and the… pacing? I think I’ve gotten used to seeing spice at certain places of a book, and Linde just kept me on my toes! A lot of what I like to see in spice scenes showed up 😶🌫️ and I felt like Linde was not formulaic and not afraid to put some realness in there! Dang, girl! 👏
Overall, I had a blast with this book, and seriously can’t wait for the third! I received an 8 chapter ARC thanks to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. And then I finished the book with the audiobook. The narrator was sooooo impressive: she managed people of all genders and multiple accents!! Brava!
I really love the authentic dialogue that Linde creates between all her characters. And there are many characters, but they don’t feel overwhelming in number. The magic in this world is getting trickier, more complex, but some questions that as a reader were floating in your mind for the first book get answered in this second book!
And I HAVE to dedicate a paragraph to the spice! 🌶️���️🌶️🔥 Woohoo! It took me by surprise, the amount of it in the book (which is not too much, but satisfyingly enough) and the… pacing? I think I’ve gotten used to seeing spice at certain places of a book, and Linde just kept me on my toes! A lot of what I like to see in spice scenes showed up 😶🌫️ and I felt like Linde was not formulaic and not afraid to put some realness in there! Dang, girl! 👏
Overall, I had a blast with this book, and seriously can’t wait for the third! I received an 8 chapter ARC thanks to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. And then I finished the book with the audiobook. The narrator was sooooo impressive: she managed people of all genders and multiple accents!! Brava!
July 17, 2025
Its probably more 3,5 stars but somehow i feel loyalty to this world and writer🤭. At the start the book was slow and I was struggling to really get into it. I also feel like there was a lot more focus on the romance than in the first book, but maybe I remember it wrong. There was a lot of great action in this sequel, and at times it felt a bit messy but nonethelesss it was a lot of fun and the whole monster underworld and thieving theme in this series continues to be great. The ending was a lot and surprising. Unfortunately I figured out that there will be another book, really wanted it to be a duology, but after that ending I will definitely look forward to the third book, hopefully not too long of a wait.
July 8, 2025
Shhh.. I need to nurse my broken heart…
What a story! This picked up right where wren in the holly library left off and the action didn’t stop. This story was full of heists, secrets, monsters, over coming darkness, and finding some hope in there. I loved seeing the character development with Kierce, she over came so much and she did so beautifully until crap went down (Lorcan I am looking at you 🤬). Graves was delightful as always and I loved seeing his character growth and how much he changed in this one. He was still a monster but he was Kierce’s monster. If you love heists, found family, morally gray, villain love, and so many twists. I highly recommend this one!
What a story! This picked up right where wren in the holly library left off and the action didn’t stop. This story was full of heists, secrets, monsters, over coming darkness, and finding some hope in there. I loved seeing the character development with Kierce, she over came so much and she did so beautifully until crap went down (Lorcan I am looking at you 🤬). Graves was delightful as always and I loved seeing his character growth and how much he changed in this one. He was still a monster but he was Kierce’s monster. If you love heists, found family, morally gray, villain love, and so many twists. I highly recommend this one!
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