A magical dagger that talks to you and thirsts for the blood of your enemies? Say less.

after deliberating for most of the book the kallen agenda is clear!!!

this hits even more on the second read through! sarah hawley i owe you my life

I stayed up later than I normally would just so I could finish this book last night, and I have zero regrets. Did I figure out most of the main plot points once we'd arrived in the land of the faeries? Yep, pretty much. Did I have a good idea of who to trust and who to avoid pretty much from the onset? Also yes. Did this affect my enjoyment of this novel one iota? No, it did not.

I've only read the first book in the author's Glimmer Falls series, and while it was cute, I found it rather mediocre. But despite the predictability of Servant of Earth, I was pleasantly surprised by how riveted I was. I've always loved stories centered on the fae and their capricious natures, and while a lot of elements in this story were familiar, I also didn't know exactly how everything would transpire, so there were still little surprises along the way.

Servant of Earth didn’t immediately grab me. The beginning felt a little aimless, like it was trying to find its tone or purpose. I spent the first few chapters wondering when the plot would actually kick in, and whether I was missing something that would make it all click.

But once the story settles, it gets more engaging. The earthy magic system and grounded, nature-focused themes start to shine, and Sarah Hawley’s writing becomes more immersive. It’s not really a romance-heavy book—more about self-discovery, healing, and quiet power than anything swoony.

If you’re looking for a fast-paced or plot-driven fantasy, this probably won’t be it. But if you’re into slower, character-focused stories with a bit of whimsy and a strong connection to nature, it might be worth the patience. Just be prepared for a slow burn—not in the romantic sense, but in how long it takes to grow into itself.

Servant of Earth was phenomenal and sure to be the next Romantasy fan favorite. It’s got stellar world building, a strong female lead, and swoon-worthy romance. I liked how the premise of the book was Keanna helping Lara in the trials. It was a different take on the “deadly trials” trope and it was fun to read. The beginning started off a little slow for me but once we got to the ending I was HOOKED and could not put it down. I can’t wait to see more Kallen in the next book and will definitely be reading book 2!!

This was a fun read! The world building was a bit slow but did pick up, and the story was well-written and kept me engaged and interested throughout the entire read. The ending left me waiting anxiously for book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this for an honest review.

I went into this book not knowing much about it aside from a friend’s recommendation. The first half felt like it dragged on with the worldbuilding and character introduction. Around the halfway to 60% point, the story suddenly picks up.

Kenna is a human who through an attempt to save a friend, ends up the handmaiden to a Fae noble lady. When her mistress partakes in a series of trials, Kenna’s main responsibility is to help her find a way to pass each trial.

Overall, the concept of this book was intriguing. The pacing was uneven between the first and second half. My biggest complaint is the excessive descriptions of colors, sensations, and landscapes around Kenna. She referenced the wet walls of the Earth entryway so many times, I was surprised when she entered that area without touching the wet walls. The second half had a little more fun with the story. Kenna was allowed to be a more rounded character. The male characters become more interesting and less brusque and burly cardboard cutouts. The revelations that take place in the last section of the book made it, so I want to continue with the series. I need to know what happens next.

What I liked:

- Strong and capable FMC
- Mysterious males
- The different trials. I never knew what they would be ahead of time.
- Kenna’s friendships

What I didn’t love:

- The pacing of the first half
- The emphasis on how Kenna’s use of makeup makes her more beautiful (not a very empowering message).
- The name of the monsters being “the uglies.” Weren't those the monster stuffed animals from the early 2000s?

As previously mentioned, the ending has me hooked and will pull me back in for book two. I want to see where this story goes and if the walls ever feel any less wet.

Thank you to Sarah Hawley, Berkley Publishing Group | Ace, and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this eBook.

Servant of Earth left me utterly captivated. The narrative's power stemmed not only from its compelling storyline but also from the breathtakingly immersive world-building. The author's crisp, clear prose drew me effortlessly into the bog, where Kenna's desperate attempt to save her dying friend, Anya, irrevocably alters the course of both their lives. The discovery of the Fae dagger acts as a catalyst, propelling Kenna into the treacherous and enchanting realm of the Fae, where she becomes a servant within the Court of Earth.

The court itself is a microcosm of intrigue and conflicting loyalties. While cruelty and treachery are certainly prevalent, the narrative masterfully avoids simplistic characterizations. The pervasive fear and hatred of the cruel and sadistic Fae king, however, paints a vivid picture of the oppressive atmosphere and serves to highlight the moral complexities of the characters who navigate this dangerous landscape. The characters' struggles resonate deeply, and their internal conflicts are just as compelling as the external threats they face. The author's skillful weaving of these elements creates an experience both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

I eagerly await the next book in this series. This is a truly exceptional piece of fantasy writing. I received an advance review copy (eARC) from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, and I extend my sincere thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the authors for

3.5 stars

**Includes spoilers throughout.**

This was a bit difficult for me to rate because I was simultaneously annoyed by the characters and engaged in the story.

Kenna was a bit feral and a touch insufferable. She was such a martyr when it came to Lara. I get that she was tasked with helping her, but she didn’t have to go as far as she did. I didn’t love that she was telling different lies to everyone, which ultimately led to an event that really made me mad. It was also pretty clear early on that her heavy participation in the challenges was going to lead to the restoration of blood house.

It was also clear that Lara wasn’t going to be found worthy because she needed help on nearly every trial. Plus Lara had no backbone, so it was hard to root for her.

Didn’t see the appeal of Drustan. I was rooting for Kallen the whole time and this is likely why I’ll read the next book, because he finally has a chance.

Like I said, I was entertained even when I was annoyed. I’ll be reading book two and I hope to get more Kallen!

Thank you netgalley and Berkley for #gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This one was recommended to me and let me tell you how glad I am to have picked this one up. I’m living for romantasy right now and this one hit. I will say I think book one was definitely more fantasy than romance heavy, but I think it really fit the story! And I can’t wait to see where it goes.

I think this book had elements we know and love about fantasy, but twisted them in a unique way. I love that Kenna became a human servant and the trials she went through, were not hers. I loved that Kenna was bold and asked questions and stood for what she knew was right.

🎧 I listened to this one and I loved the audio. Mia Hutchinson-Shaw was AMAZING as Kenna! I hope she’s back for book 2!

This was really fun and super cool! This was a little darker than I expected, especially for a Fae book. All the characters were very well developed and kept me interested the whole time. I devoured this book it had me on edge the entire time.

This is my first Sarah Hawley book and I am obsessed with her writing. I’ve already gone out and bought her Glimmer Falls series and will be devouring them soon!!

What I enjoyed most about this book was the excellent worldbuilding that Sarah does. I felt very immersed in the world and was only helped by the engaging plot. Kenna was a very likeable FMC and I immediately fell in love with her. I was NOT expecting the love triangle twist, but I am absolutely here for it! Don’t make me choose between Drustan and Kallen - I BEG!!!!

I was such a huge fan of Sarah Hawley’s other series and I was so excited to learn she was writing a new series that was completely different than Glimmer Falls.

This is about Kenna, a human who while trying to save her friend, gets trapped in Fae lands and is forced to be a handmaiden. There is a lot of dark themes at play in this book and some things were difficult to read. This is a true departure from her previous works. Kenna survives mostly because no one assumes she can do anything and also she found a talking dagger in a bog. She’s used a spy for nearly every house and still
manages to keep her princess charge alive.

Some plot points were kind of predictable but the vibes were good. I enjoyed the secondary characters who Kenna found friendships with. She proved herself to be quite smart and strong and survived despite the odds. I really enjoyed learning about the different fae houses and I’m sure there will be more in the next book!

The ending was very satisfying and I actually cannot wait for the next book! I’m so excited to see where Kenna’s story will go. And I hope there’s more Caedo and Kallen!

Thank you so much to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for this eARC.

4 Stars If you love romantasy and are eagerly awaiting the next release of multiple romantasy series, then you are in for a treat with Servant of Earth!

This had everything that I love and appreciate from romantasy books; the world-building was easy to follow and understand, while still keeping my interest with how different it was from other series' worlds. There was plenty of action and just enough spice. The ending had me already eagerly waiting on the release of book 2!

Thank you Berkley for the ARC!

I cannot get over how much I enjoyed this book! This was a new twist on Fae and their deadly politics. Our FMC, Kenna, is thrust into deadly trials, espionage, and seductive fae. While she is flawed she is incredibly lovable and relatable. The twists and turns of this book left me on the edge of my seat and I am so excited for book two.

Please read this book if you are interested in:

🗡️A sentient blood thirsty knife
🗡️deadly trials
🗡️dark fae
🗡️A SENTIENT BLOOD THIRSTY KNIFE!
🗡️rebellions
🗡️espionage
🗡️and ✨spice✨

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the free copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Great start to a unique series. The character development was impressive, although some side characters lacked depth. The FMC was refreshing and independent. I liked the ACOTAR feel to the book, but at the same time it didn’t feel like an ACOTAR rip off. I think most ACOTAR fans would approve.

This was my introduction to Sarah Hawley and OH MY GOSH. What a refreshing fantasy story where I honestly didn't know what to expect next. I was absolutely hooked from page one and reading until midnight where upon finishing, I immediately came on here to post my feedback. I don't feel super connected to the characters but was so incredibly invested in how everything was unfolding that the last 20% of the book had my yelling at my husband anytime he wanted to talk to me because it was just too intense (IYKYK).
CaNNNNNOOOOOTTTT wait for the next book and see what wild ride Hawley will take us on next.

Servant of Earth by Sarah Hawley is a fresh, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable read. The story pulled me in with its unique voice and charm, and I found myself completely absorbed. I can’t wait to read more from this author—her storytelling is something special.

As a romantasy lover, I thought this book was very interesting and I enjoyed reading it!

Following the FMC Kenna, it was immediately apparent that Kenna was a determined, spirited person who had immense care for those around her. When Kenna ends up in the fae kingdom and she's forced to become a servant, she has to adapt to her new role of obedience. I loved her (platonic) relationship with the princess develop as they were both struggling with the role they found themselves in and aided each other in different ways.

While the plot wasn't anything revolutionary, the challenges that Kenna had to participate in were interesting and fun to read. There was plenty of court-intrigues and the vibes throughout the novel were very fantastical.

My main disappointments about the book were the pacing and the romance. Pacing wise, there were lots of time jumps as the fae challenges were the main plot events, but that ended up with multiple instances where the story would just jump to the next week or month without really acknowledging anything that happened in between. In some stories that works fine, but it didn't feel right in the context of a fae court where something is always happening and Kenna's life is seemingly always in danger. Secondly, the romance felt so flat and lacking chemistry, in my opinion. I was never really rooting for Kenna to end up with any of the characters because I just couldn't feel any realistic connection between them. And that's not to say that it felt like insta-love, because sometimes I love that trope, it just felt like no-love.

All in all, I felt like Kenna was actually a very unique and interesting FMC but she was somewhat let down by a repetitive plot and a lack-luster romance (though, the romance aspect may be much better in the sequel, so I'm not holding that completely against the book). I'm glad I read it and I will be reading the sequel because I was interested enough in the main aspects of the novel to want to see how they continue!

Thank you to NetGalley and Ace for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review. This book was released in 2024 but became available again as book 2 will be released in. 2025.
This is your average human who finds herself in the land of Fae. No one can be trusted. Live, lust and betrayal abounds. This time the noble birth fae are in a hunger games style competition to earn their immortality and full access to their magic. But wait! An evil Fae King stands in the way and with a rebellion brewing in the background what will our poor human do to survive?
In general I am not the biggest fan of books about the Fae although sometimes i am surprised and read one of such good quality that I want to read the next books in the series. This is not one of those books. This was an average book with ok characters and a mostly not original plot. I’m giving this three stars because it did qualify higher up than a 2 star MEH status but I have no desire to continue this series.

I've been seeing this book all over TikTok and bookstagram and went in blind. This book didn't disappoint at all. I love the world building and characters. Kenna was such a badass and I loved her character so much. This book was filled with dark vibes, twist and turns, a some spice. It was a quick and fun read. I can't wait for book 2