A Love as Wild as the Woods: My Feral Romance Review
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What happens when a fae shifter with a penchant for biting and a self-proclaimed matchmaker with an overinflated ego collide in spicy standalone fantasy romcoms? In My Feral Romance by Tessonja Odette, we follow fae shifter Daphne as she enters the opportunity of a lifetime. Illustrating steamy romance novels for her favorite author. The only problem? Mastering male physiques. And, well, all the essential anatomy that comes with it has her stuck. Enter Monty Phillips, the meddling, hopeless romantic whose popular advice column keeps romance a comfortable arm’s length away. The last time Daphne trusted Monty, he shattered their friendship. This proclaimed matchmaker dares to drag her into one of his idiotic matchmaking games while agreeing to pose as her model in exchange.
Flirting lessons commence, instructional seduction turns their platonic spark into an inferno, and the cozy fantasy world of the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series transforms into a battlefield of rekindled feelings and burning desire. Can Monty prove his modern courtship tips truly work, or will Daphne’s feral heart refuse to be tamed?
Title: My Feral Romance (Fae Strings and Corset Strings, 2)
Author: Tessonja Odette
Publisher: Crystal Moon Press
Genre: Fantasy, Romantasy, Cozy Romance, Fantasy Romance
Release Date: December 10, 2024
Pages: 416
Star Rating: 4 stars
Spice Rating: 1.5
Why You’ll Love My Feral Romance
We return to Faerwyvae with My Feral Romance, a low-stakes fantasy romance promising the best the genre offers. Author Tessonja Odette’s first book in the series A Rivalry of Hearts was delicious (Check out my review). In that installment, we were previously introduced to the two main characters, Daphne and Monty, with the end teasing and prepping us for My Feral Romance. To say the least, I was excited for My Feral Romance. As side characters in A Rivalry of Hearts, I loved them just as much as William and Edwina. Maybe even more.
So, what did I think of My Feral Romance? I loved it. Tessonja has a way of weaving words that feel like stepping into a dream. A comforting, vivid, and laced with a touch of magic. Her writing style perfectly blends smooth prose and engaging dialogue in My Feral Romance. Creating a rhythm that invites you to linger on every page. While it may take a moment for you to find the story’s pace, you’re swept away by her ability to balance humor, heart, and just the right amount of spice once you do. *side note* that hotel mirror scene, whew!
“You really shouldn’t have run in the rain with me if you’re so sensitive to it.” “I’ll always run in the rain with you.”
Monty and Daphne shine through the words and descriptions. Their personalities are distinct and alive; it is easy to feel as if you know them and are your friends (I would totally be Daphne’s friend). The banter between the two sparkles with energy, a prolonged tension ratcheting until it combusts into fiery passion. Whether it’s playful flirting lessons or a heart-stopping moment of rekindled passion, Odette’s narrative gives you everything you expect from a Fae Flings and Corset Strings book. Her writing is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination, keeping you hooked with perfectly placed mischief.
“Good God, Daddy Thorne is adorable.”
Her world-building is cozy yet immersive, giving readers a mystical backdrop that enhances the story without overwhelming it. Intertwining moments of whimsy with the glowing mushroom wall that will have you desiring to reach out and touch them, watching the luminescent glow. The world truly shines in its relatability. It’s not an overwhelming, sprawling epic. But a cozy, close-knit environment that feels as much about the characters’ emotions as the fantasy setting itself. Even in moments where the worldbuilding could be more refined, Odette’s ability to capture the heart of a scene keeps the reader engaged.
That being said, not every moment lands with the precision it deserves. There are parts of the story that just feel out of focus. Especially when it came to Araminta. As a character, this book sprite had the potential to shine, with just enough intrigue to spark curiosity. But there is not enough foundation to fully light the fire for her upcoming story.
“We live in a world where magic and fae exist, and you call me a wizard.” “For the love of all of all, she just called me a sex wizard.”
Araminta’s inclusion felt more like a cameo than a cohesive narrative part. While interesting as Daphne’s self-proclaimed “best friend,” her role lacked the depth necessary to connect her to the world or make readers eager to dive into her book. There were missed opportunities to explore her motivations, personality, and relationships. And while we finally meet her love interest in the epilogue, it was too little, too late. The fleeting mention didn’t give me the chance to wonder about their chemistry or feel invested in their journey. This disconnection feels out of sorts because Daphne and Monty were intertwined enough that you grew to love them, pumping up the excitement for what could happen between them.
“God, that’s fucking art.”
Don’t get me wrong—I like Araminta as a character. She has an undeniable spark that hints at something more. She is witty and excited to experience things (even if it is just “shopping” from dead people’s closets). But without stronger development, her story feels like an afterthought, not the exciting continuation of the series it should have been. I wanted to be hyped for her book, to finish Daphne and Monty’s story already speculating about the drama, romance, and adventures awaiting Araminta. Instead, I was left with questions (and not the good kind), but will this really work? kind.
“Do you see that? Do you see how beautiful that is?”
Overall, My Feral Romance is a delightful blend of cozy fantasy, witty banter, and sizzling chemistry that will leave you smiling. Tessonja Odette crafts a charming story that, while imperfect in places, shines with heart and humor. Fans of friends-to-lovers romance, fae bargains, and socially awkward BUT fiercely lovable protagonists will find plenty to enjoy. If you adore Bridgerton-esque matchmaking shenanigans, the whimsical flair of cozy fantasy worlds, or love stories where passion and vulnerability collide, this book is for you.
While it may take a moment to settle into the rhythm of the story, once you’re there, Daphne and Monty’s journey is an enchanting escape filled with flirty lessons, heartfelt confessions, and a touch of steamy romance. Perfect for readers who love a little magic in their love stories and characters who are as flawed as they are endearing.
So grab your coziest blanket, pour a cup of tea (or wine), and get ready to fall for this spicy standalone from the Fae Flings and Corset Strings series. It’s a story worth getting lost in—and a world you won’t want to leave.
If you are a Kindle Unlimited lover, you can read both Fae Flings and Corset Strings series books.
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