Dancing into the Realm of Enchantment: A Review of Dance with the Fae
It’s not every day that a book pulls me in from the first page, especially in a genre I tread lightly with—Romantasy. Yet here I am, excitedly gushing about Dance with the Fae by Elisabeth Hobbes. I’ve frequented the Romantasy shelves with skepticism, often ending up disappointed, but Hobbes has a unique charm that keeps me coming back for more. After adoring her debut, Daughter of the Sea, my expectations were set high, yet this enchanting tale was more than I anticipated.
Set in the aftermath of WW1, Dance with the Fae captivates with a friends-to-lovers storyline steeped in magic and folklore. The novel introduces us to Kit Arton-Price at an engagement party where he is paired with his childhood friend, Adelaide. Right from the get-go, their dynamic reveals a startling incompatibility, akin to chalk and cheese. Adelaide’s penchant for the superficial—glamor, dances, and social attention—contrasts sharply with Kit’s depth. She initially comes across as a spoiled character, and I couldn’t help but feel that her romantic fate with the dashing Silas Wilde was a blessing in disguise for Kit.
Ah, Silas! An ethereally beautiful figure from the Fae world who instantly captured my heart. He, along with the mysterious Mr. Wilde and Ms. Dove, adds a layer of intrigue that elevates the narrative. Their presence intertwines with darker currents as Adelaide inexplicably falls into a deep sleep, prompting Kit to embark on a journey rich in magical lore to rescue her.
What struck me most was Hobbes’s ability to weave a rich tapestry of themes—love, loss, and self-acceptance—while also spotlighting Kit’s struggle with his bisexuality and PTSD from the war. Kit’s character arc resonated deeply; his quest for identity against societal expectations was poignantly portrayed, giving the narrative a grounded heart. I found myself rooting for him as he navigates both the Fae realm and his burgeoning feelings, particularly resonating with Valentine, a character who brings warmth and understanding.
The pacing felt just right—pulling me in with a quick start and maintaining intrigue throughout, though I did feel the conclusion wrapped up a bit hastily. Nevertheless, Hobbes’s storytelling is engaging and laced with whimsical charm, emphasizing feelings of belonging and self-discovery. There were moments that made me pause and reflect, particularly in Kit’s backstory, which I wished had been explored further given my affinity for WW1 narratives.
Despite my initial reservations regarding Adelaide, I sensed a gradual evolution in her character by the end. She matured, evolving from a seemingly spoiled princess into someone more complex. While she didn’t quite win my heart, her journey towards self-awareness offered an interesting arc that added depth to the story.
Dance with the Fae is a delightful concoction, effortlessly blending romance, fantasy, and poignant themes of identity. It’s a tale that would resonate with Romantasy aficionados and gently beckon readers like me, who are a bit more selective. If you enjoy stories filled with heart, enchantment, and complex characters, this book is one to dance with.
In the end, I left the pages with a warm glow, entirely charmed—not just by the Faerie magic but by the intricate layers of human emotion woven throughout. I highly recommend it for those looking to immerse themselves in a tale where love and self-discovery reign supreme. Will I be diving into more of Hobbes’s work? Absolutely! Who knows what treasures I might uncover in the realm of Romantasy?