In Lisette Marshall's With Wing and Claw: A Sapphic Fae Fantasy Romance, the aftermath of a devastating war throws Thysandra, a former loyalist, into chaos. Betrayed and abandoned by her nemesis and obsessive love interest, Anaxia, Thysandra is unexpectedly named High Lady of the Crimson Court. Now she must navigate treacherous political landscapes, appease warring factions, and deal with a sentient mountain – all while Anaxia, a charming but morally bankrupt demon, continues to wreak havoc and claim Thysandra's heart. Their uneasy alliance, forged in necessity, threatens to shatter under the weight of court intrigue and simmering desire. This steamy sapphic romance, a standalone addition to the Fae Isles series, explores themes of betrayal, redemption, and the intoxicating power of forbidden love.
Review With Wing And Claw
Oh my goodness, "With Wing and Claw" completely captivated me! As a huge fan of the Fae Isles series, I was practically bouncing with excitement when I saw Lisette Marshall was continuing the story with this book, especially focusing on Thysandra and Anaxia, two characters who have always intrigued me. My initial worries that this standalone would feel lacking compared to the main series were quickly dispelled; it felt like a natural and thrilling continuation, picking up right where the last book left off, seamlessly weaving together the familiar threads of the Fae Isles with a fresh, compelling narrative.
The heart of the story, the complex relationship between Thysandra and Anaxia (Naxi), is simply breathtaking. Their dynamic is electric – a volatile mix of hate, obsession, and undeniable chemistry. Watching them navigate their fraught history, grapple with their individual traumas, and slowly, tentatively, learn to trust each other was deeply emotional. I found myself completely invested in their journey, a rollercoaster of hurt/comfort, angst, and ultimately, a beautiful, hard-won love. There were moments that had me genuinely tearing up, and others that left me breathless with anticipation. Marshall masterfully portrays the vulnerabilities beneath their hardened exteriors, making them both deeply sympathetic and incredibly compelling characters.
Beyond the central romance, the political intrigue of the Crimson Court kept me on the edge of my seat. The world-building in the Fae Isles series is always richly detailed, and this book is no exception. The rebellion's aftermath, the simmering tensions between the fae and humans, and the ever-present threat of unseen enemies provided a thrilling backdrop to Thysandra's struggle to restore order. I loved encountering new characters who added depth and intrigue to the already vibrant cast, while still getting to see our beloved favorites.
The writing itself is engaging and easy to follow, drawing you into the world and keeping you invested in the characters' fates. The pacing is excellent, balancing moments of intense action and heart-wrenching emotion with lighter, more humorous scenes that provided welcome breaks from the constant tension. While the sapphic romance is central to the plot, it's not gratuitous; it feels genuine and integral to the characters' growth and development.
In short, "With Wing and Claw" is a fantastic addition to the Fae Isles series. It's a compelling story of redemption, forgiveness, and finding love in the most unexpected of places. If you enjoy sapphic romance, political intrigue, complex character arcs, and a touch of steamy spice, then this book is an absolute must-read. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the world of the Fae Isles, prepare to be completely enchanted. I, for one, can't wait to see what Lisette Marshall creates next!
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.14 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 453
- Publication date: 2024
Book table of contents
- Chapter 1
- Chapter 2
- Chapter 3
- Chapter 4
- Chapter 5
- Chapter 6
- Chapter 7
- Chapter 8
- Chapter 9
- Chapter 10
- Chapter 11
- Chapter 12
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 14
- Chapter 15
Preview Book
