How Does It Feel? 🍄‍🟫

Okay, fellow bookworms, I just HAD to share my thoughts on 'How Does It Feel?' by Jeneane O'Riley, especially when it comes to the dynamic duo: Mendax and Callie! If you're anything like me, you've probably seen this book pop up on your radar, and let me tell you, it lives up to the hype, especially when you dive deep into these characters. First off, Callie. She's not your typical damsel in distress; she's a biologist, which I absolutely adored. Her scientific mind, grounded in the tangible, clashes so beautifully with the utterly fantastical world she finds herself tangled in. It’s like watching a meticulously organized spreadsheet meet a chaotic, shimmering forest – and it works! Her journey of discovery, not just about the Fae world but about herself, is incredibly compelling. The way she tries to rationalize the irrational, or eventually succumbs to its allure, makes her super relatable. I loved how her background provided a unique lens through which to view the Unseelie Court. Then there's Mendax, our Unseelie Fae prince. Oh my goodness. He's everything you'd expect from a dark, powerful Fae and more. Brooding, enigmatic, and with a dangerous edge that just pulls you in. Their initial interactions are laced with tension, power struggles, and a palpable sense of danger. Those quotes from the book, like "Because if you’re not dead, I fear I will leave" or "You develop a taste for blood when you’re constantly licking your own wounds," perfectly encapsulate the intensity of Mendax’s character and the complex, often dark, nature of their bond. It’s not a fluffy romance; it's raw, passionate, and at times, heartbreaking. You truly feel the weight of their choices and the high stakes involved. The world-building around the Unseelie Fae is also fantastic. The way Jeneane O'Riley weaves in elements of dark botanical art, moths, and mushrooms, as seen on the stunning cover, really sets the mood. It's gothic, ethereal, and a little bit unsettling in the best way possible. You can almost feel the dampness of the ancient forests and the magical energy humming around the Fae. I even pictured the polished crystals seen on the cover as mystical artifacts or power sources within their realm. It adds so much to the immersive experience. What truly resonated with me about Mendax and Callie was how their relationship evolved from reluctant allies to something much deeper and more profound, despite all the obstacles. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the emotional roller coaster they take you on is just *chef's kiss*. If you're looking for a fantasy romance that delivers on passion, intrigue, and characters you can't stop thinking about, then you absolutely need to pick up 'How Does It Feel? The Infatuated Fae Book One'. It left me eagerly awaiting the next installment, desperate to see what happens next for these two!