I am mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically unwell. I knew this book would take me on an emotional rollercoaster. But instead, I was completely blown away. Long Live the Elf Queen by J.M. Kearl does NOT have second-book syndrome. And in my opinion, it may even be better than the first (which I rated just as high). Okay, so I was just casually listening to this book until Thane said, “You are mine and I am yours…” Dare to dive into this whimsical and deeply romantic story inspired by Hades & Persephone, The Lord of the Rings, and a sprinkle of Norse mythology. A tale that will grip you from the first moment and stay with you long after the last. Start listening now!

Layala and Thane's chemistry sparked upon their first meeting and to Thane's delight, his fiery mate never allowed him to savor a moment of rest. Love was a powerful force. It could not be bought. It could not be taken or stolen. Although sometimes it must be fought for, it must be given freely. if he wishes to threaten my mate in any way, he will find me as a shadow at the foot of his bed. It will be the last thing he ever sees.” Thane was nice. Really, really nice. He just said nice things and did nice things and never pushed and wasn't at all the brutal young king that the rumors made him out to be. Layala is a badass. It took her entirely too long to get with the program but I loved that she was strong, brave, and willing to evolve.Not only that, but it wasn't really enemies imo, the dialogue was VERY cliche and contrived. This book felt way too YA and way too similar to every other YA book out there. There was literally nothing new. The world itself is intriguing and makes me want to explore every corner, every forest, every Kingdom, and all the magic, be it good or dark, within it. Perfect for fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses & Fourth Wing comes a deeply romantic high fantasy series with elves, dragons, magic, and captivating enemies-to-lovers. But also know when NOT to take someone's advice. You are the author. It's your story. You know what is best. If you love something about your book and someone else doesn't, be wary. You have to know your genre and what works. Chances are if you love it others will too. Let me tell you how amazing the narrators are !!! So much expression in their voices, especially the narrator for Layala !! I haven’t listened to a ton of audiobooks but this is the best one I’ve listened to by far.

A good chunk of the stuff the author says on her TikTok didn't quite match up with what was in this book but Thane has a secret that makes it impossible for Layala to slay him. She has an even darker truth that makes loving her forbidden, no matter how much Thane wants to touch. The Pacing: the pacing started out as great in the beginning but there instances where the story kind of lost me in the second half. Take criticism well. If someone suggests there are problems with your book, do NOT argue with them. Take it in and don't get offended. I played sports growing up so I think this is why I don't get offended when people critique my work. I always want to get better. I'm coachable. Ah, there goes my virginity. The Kings elite guards at it again just dropping panties left and right out in these dusty mountains.This book was an roller-coaster of a read! It was an epic adventure from start to finish. The world-building continued to enthrall and amaze me, we saw new places and creatures. We meet new friends and foes are introduced along Layala and Thane’s journey. You definitely get a lot more plot development this round and I think justice was done to both characters being able to see them separate (which was so emotional) and together. Layala has so much growth in this book, she gets a better chance to really find herself and her place in this world, Thane continues to be all in his glory and badassness stubbornness as he lays down that no matter what that Layala is his. I loved those intimate moments between them, but I was hoping for some more spicness, I feel like this book could be labeld as upper YA. It was interesting to see the connection between the two of them grow, despite no loner having a mate bond, and it showed they don't need it to feel for each other. I wanted to love this so much I was pretty sure I'd end up hating it, and while I didn't look loathe it in the end, I felt a bit betrayed. The beginning portion of the book actually had some substance to it, where Layala gets taken away by her fiancé, and they obviously meet the mean sister. It had the stereotypical vibes that I was going for, but then, oh then, it got super weird. The MC went from being this badass "I don't take any shit from anyone" type of personality, to someone who complains about everything. I honestly couldn't take it. It took me 8 days to read this book because of that. After a reread, I agree with all of my previous reasons for loving this book. But mostly… Thane. And HOW did I remember such a different ending?!? Also this might not be YA after all. 😏 I can’t wait for Long Live the Elf Queen tomorrow.