What do you think?
Rate this book
College Fae #1
Never Date a Siren
College Life: Friends, Finals, and the Fae trying to kill you.
Leopold Otto University in mysterious Bewachterberg invites both humans and fae to attend. Beware though, the administration doesn’t guarantee your safety!
An American college student discovers his fellow fae students operate under a different code of honor. Only if he can decipher their tangled Laws of Civility can he hope to survive the semester.
The fae dryad didn’t plan on having a human roommate, but through mischance Brigit incurs a Debt Bond. Can she save Logan from a beguiler’s love spell?
A fun, exciting romp in a fantasy world where fae creatures of all kinds live among us.
The College Fae series takes place at Leopold Otto University of Geheimetür, Bewachterberg -- a country that the fae hid from the world for 99 years and a day.
Leopold Otto University in mysterious Bewachterberg invites both humans and fae to attend. Beware though, the administration doesn’t guarantee your safety!
An American college student discovers his fellow fae students operate under a different code of honor. Only if he can decipher their tangled Laws of Civility can he hope to survive the semester.
The fae dryad didn’t plan on having a human roommate, but through mischance Brigit incurs a Debt Bond. Can she save Logan from a beguiler’s love spell?
A fun, exciting romp in a fantasy world where fae creatures of all kinds live among us.
The College Fae series takes place at Leopold Otto University of Geheimetür, Bewachterberg -- a country that the fae hid from the world for 99 years and a day.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2019
About the author
Byrd Nash
25 books1,352 followersDiscover fearless women, clever as cats, partnered with men who fall first even if they do have a hidden agenda. Byrd writes riveting characters who are relatable but realistically complex.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
Her book series showcase alternate histories with intrigue, fantasy, and the supernatural, while Byrd’s standalone novels are thought-provoking explorations of family dysfunction using contemporary settings and magical realism.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 9, 2020
I received a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via the author.
This is a fantastic start to a new fae series! Byrd Nash builds an intriguing and captivating fantasy world where fae and humans live together at a college setting. The writing style in parts reminds me of Neil Gaiman and I found this book a fun read. Throughout the book there are small twists which keep the story interesting and keeps you wanting to read more.
I loved the descriptions of all the monsters and fae creatures throughout this book and the imagination for such creatures to be brought to life was fantastic!
I cant wait to read the next books in this series!
This is a fantastic start to a new fae series! Byrd Nash builds an intriguing and captivating fantasy world where fae and humans live together at a college setting. The writing style in parts reminds me of Neil Gaiman and I found this book a fun read. Throughout the book there are small twists which keep the story interesting and keeps you wanting to read more.
I loved the descriptions of all the monsters and fae creatures throughout this book and the imagination for such creatures to be brought to life was fantastic!
I cant wait to read the next books in this series!
February 28, 2020
Never Date a Siren was an easy and fun read. Nash was able to build a world of her own including typical and untypical fantasy creatures, along with unusual powers and traits. I enjoyed how unexpected information was sprinkled here and there to throw twists into the story. The characters were bold and direct; my favorite was the fiesty MC. Although the world building and scene setting were good, I had issues with the writing when it became over descriptive (but this is a huge pet peeve of mine and I criticize books for it often). Overall, an entertaining read and a good start to a series.
March 26, 2021
I confess I had to start a couple times because I wasn't sure I liked the main character and her method of finding a new place to live. But as I pressed on she won me over, and her methods are well within her fae nature, and I suspect the author meant it to a bit uncomfortable. By the time I was halfway into the book I was so in love with the characters that I went and bought the rest of the series. The end did not disappoint, and I was relieved that Nash did not force a romance between the main characters. The worldbuilding is great, and magic system works well, and Nash knows her fae lore inside-out. A highly enjoyable read.
March 27, 2020
I really enjoyed this take on fae human relationships in the context of a university setting. Logan a bard and human is beguiled by Sybil a Siren attending the same university in a land Bewachterberg that's been hidden to the world for 99 years and a day. Brigit Cullen a dryad finds herself in need of new lodgings and stumbles across Logan and his apartment. After moving in under the cover of fae magic Brigit discovers Logan is dying from his encounter with Sybil. A chance run in at a local bar Logan unknowingly saves Brigit from a nasty poisoning by Sybil and Brigit is now indebted to him under the laws of civility to free him from Sybils beguiling. A fantastic narrative and great characters my favourite being the doppelganger Paul, hoping he is in the next book. The human fae history and relationships are fascinating. I enjoyed learn g about Bewachterberg and how it remained hidden as well as the various fae clans. If you are a fan of YA fantasy this is for you.
March 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book!
It has really fun well build characters and an amazing look on the world of the fae!
This is one of those books you want to finish in one sitting and it's a world you want to see more of!
It has really fun well build characters and an amazing look on the world of the fae!
This is one of those books you want to finish in one sitting and it's a world you want to see more of!
September 8, 2020
Great Read
I finished the book in one sitting. Halfway through I thought about how much I was enjoying reading this book. When I finished the book I want d to read more. The author has a gift. You would be missing out if you don't sample the goods
I finished the book in one sitting. Halfway through I thought about how much I was enjoying reading this book. When I finished the book I want d to read more. The author has a gift. You would be missing out if you don't sample the goods
July 20, 2020
Great Fantasy Tale
Wonderful characters. Intriguing plot. Action, plot twists and fun dialogue. Fae and human interaction at its best. Read it now.
Wonderful characters. Intriguing plot. Action, plot twists and fun dialogue. Fae and human interaction at its best. Read it now.
August 28, 2020
This was a fun start to a YA series. Pretty quick read too. The characters had a lot of spunk, and were fun to read
May 26, 2024
Excellent I, could not set it down
December 29, 2019
The first in the College Fae series, Never Date a Siren is an engaging and clever read that stirs the imagination. Set in Leopold Otto Universtity in Brachtenberg, college student Logan meets the mysterious Brigit, not realising she’s a dryad princess fighting to release him from a siren who has Beguiled him. Brigit is a stickler for fae law and through her wit, determination and generous heart, navigates her way through the sticky situation of Logan’s problem.
With a cast of fascinating and endearing characters, Nash has introduced a series which is chock full of potential. I thoroughly enjoyed her worldbuilding, finding myself captivated by her imagery and the layers of rules the fae must follow. Despite the detail within their politics and laws, I never found myself confused; Nash delivers just the right amount of information when and where it’s needed.
Nash’s characters are what drive this tale. Brigit is a feisty, clever girl, hellbent on doing what’s right. Jib the puca – a cat who speaks only as I imagine cats would, given the chance – is one of my favourites, along with Logan, who has an absolutely fascinating background I hope Nash delves into in the next book. Tying all these lovable characters together is the fact that human and fae must live side-by-side in the university, adhering to septs, civility laws and debts of honour. Nash has a fantastic imagination and it shines through in this first book of the series. I’m very much looking forward to her next instalment.
Packed with imagery, wit and a storyline that skips along at a great pace, Never Date a Siren will appeal to anyone with a love for fae lore, clever worldbuilding and authentic characters.
With a cast of fascinating and endearing characters, Nash has introduced a series which is chock full of potential. I thoroughly enjoyed her worldbuilding, finding myself captivated by her imagery and the layers of rules the fae must follow. Despite the detail within their politics and laws, I never found myself confused; Nash delivers just the right amount of information when and where it’s needed.
Nash’s characters are what drive this tale. Brigit is a feisty, clever girl, hellbent on doing what’s right. Jib the puca – a cat who speaks only as I imagine cats would, given the chance – is one of my favourites, along with Logan, who has an absolutely fascinating background I hope Nash delves into in the next book. Tying all these lovable characters together is the fact that human and fae must live side-by-side in the university, adhering to septs, civility laws and debts of honour. Nash has a fantastic imagination and it shines through in this first book of the series. I’m very much looking forward to her next instalment.
Packed with imagery, wit and a storyline that skips along at a great pace, Never Date a Siren will appeal to anyone with a love for fae lore, clever worldbuilding and authentic characters.
January 10, 2020
"Never Date a Siren," the first book in the College Fae series, is a breezy read filled with equal parts humor, adventure, and peril. The latter especially applies to Logan Dannon, a human enrolled in Leopold Otto University in the small country of Bewatcherberg.
The student body of LOTTOS consists of a variety of fae beings as well as humans. When Logan dates and later breaks up with a siren named Sybil, he discovers she put a Beguiling spell on him, causing him to slowly waste away while pining for her.
A chance encounter in a beer hall with a dryad named Brigit results in Logan saving her from poisoning. This action means Brigit is now in debt to Logan, a condition she despises. Upon learning his history with Sybil, she decides to find a way to break the siren's spell to pay off her debt.
Byrd Nash clearly knows her stuff when it comes to fae lore, and this book is chock full of it. From complex contracts and check-and-balance systems, to the shifting illusions of the Perilous Realm, to the clan and sept systems that organize fae by form and magic type, the information is presented in a clear, easy-to-follow manner.
Standout characters include Jib, a sassy trickster fae in cat form; Mrs. Tiggy, a Scottish brownie with a thick brogue; Sybil, the spoiled siren who loves to drain mortals dry with her Beguiling; and Brigit, the crafty dryad who, despite her strict adherence to the fae codes of Balance, is highly relatable and almost, dare I say it, human.
This is an immensely enjoyable book. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this ebook for review.
The student body of LOTTOS consists of a variety of fae beings as well as humans. When Logan dates and later breaks up with a siren named Sybil, he discovers she put a Beguiling spell on him, causing him to slowly waste away while pining for her.
A chance encounter in a beer hall with a dryad named Brigit results in Logan saving her from poisoning. This action means Brigit is now in debt to Logan, a condition she despises. Upon learning his history with Sybil, she decides to find a way to break the siren's spell to pay off her debt.
Byrd Nash clearly knows her stuff when it comes to fae lore, and this book is chock full of it. From complex contracts and check-and-balance systems, to the shifting illusions of the Perilous Realm, to the clan and sept systems that organize fae by form and magic type, the information is presented in a clear, easy-to-follow manner.
Standout characters include Jib, a sassy trickster fae in cat form; Mrs. Tiggy, a Scottish brownie with a thick brogue; Sybil, the spoiled siren who loves to drain mortals dry with her Beguiling; and Brigit, the crafty dryad who, despite her strict adherence to the fae codes of Balance, is highly relatable and almost, dare I say it, human.
This is an immensely enjoyable book. I'm definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note: I received an ARC copy of this ebook for review.
December 29, 2019
As a fan of Nash's previous work, the Wicked Wolves of Windsor, I knew I was in good hands with this YA fantasy offering. Nash has a wonderful way of weaving old myths and fairytales into modern stories and Book One of this new series is no exception. She excels in world-building and creating a vibrant reality for her characters. I loved the small touches - characters that have flaws and quirks like all of us. Her main character, Brigit, is capable and confident - maybe even a bit too confident - and she reminds me of many new college students who are now in a new environment and are finding their way. The fact that the story involves fae students, a Siren with some serious boundary issues, and a fictional European country that I would love to visit is just bonus. At its heart, the story is the start of a coming of age tale that promises growth and change for our heroine, along with adventure for her bondmates. Never Date a Siren is perfect for fans of YA/NA as well as though who like thoughtful fantasy and old tales with new twists.
January 24, 2020
I give Never Date a Siren: A College Fae magic series #1 by Byrd Nash, 5 stars!
This book was absolutely amazing! This is my favorite genre, but it went above and beyond what I was expecting. It is fun, exciting and suspenseful all wrapped into one. The characters have huge personalities and I can't say I've read a book where the main character is a dryad. I like how the author incorporates creatures we do not normally see in supernatural books. Not only that, she quickly explains what they are to those who do not know. That earns bonus points in my book.
Then there's the story itself. Again, very unique. It takes the woman scorned angle and spins it for a wild ride. A curse is placed on a human and Brigit is determined to break the curse. That is just the very start of it though, there is really so much more involved. Most of it takes place in college in an absolutely amazing little town, but that is not all. This adds to it even more. I cannot wait to read the next book!
If you like fun, quirky urban fantasy with a great story and amazing characters, this book is for you.
This book was absolutely amazing! This is my favorite genre, but it went above and beyond what I was expecting. It is fun, exciting and suspenseful all wrapped into one. The characters have huge personalities and I can't say I've read a book where the main character is a dryad. I like how the author incorporates creatures we do not normally see in supernatural books. Not only that, she quickly explains what they are to those who do not know. That earns bonus points in my book.
Then there's the story itself. Again, very unique. It takes the woman scorned angle and spins it for a wild ride. A curse is placed on a human and Brigit is determined to break the curse. That is just the very start of it though, there is really so much more involved. Most of it takes place in college in an absolutely amazing little town, but that is not all. This adds to it even more. I cannot wait to read the next book!
If you like fun, quirky urban fantasy with a great story and amazing characters, this book is for you.
November 18, 2019
An engaging, imaginative YA novel recommended for readers who like supernatural and fairy tale lore with humor in a contemporary setting.
The first book in the College Fae series, Never Date a Siren introduces a group of unique and relatable characters in the fully realized magical world of Bewachterberg where humans and fae interact.
The story features Brigit, the dryad princess and Logan, an American student. They come together to take on a challenge and discover who they are along the way. Additional characters like the snarky and smart Jib enhance the story’s plot and round out the magical elements of this world.
Note: As a beta reader for this book during its development, I looked forward to reading each chapter. The author did a great job balancing the elements of creating a story and sustaining reader interest.
The first book in the College Fae series, Never Date a Siren introduces a group of unique and relatable characters in the fully realized magical world of Bewachterberg where humans and fae interact.
The story features Brigit, the dryad princess and Logan, an American student. They come together to take on a challenge and discover who they are along the way. Additional characters like the snarky and smart Jib enhance the story’s plot and round out the magical elements of this world.
Note: As a beta reader for this book during its development, I looked forward to reading each chapter. The author did a great job balancing the elements of creating a story and sustaining reader interest.
December 28, 2019
Never Date a Siren is delightful and witty book by master of the modern fairy tale Byrd Nash.
The ancient world of the fae gets a modern University setting reminiscent of the clash of creatures in Harry Potter. A talking format is a true gem, as is the snarky Jib, a talking black cat. When a human falls prey to a selfish siren , it is up to a clever fae to break the spell. Nash is a master of revenge, having read the author's previous work, The Wicked Wolves of Windsor (read this book!) and revenge that takes on multiple layers is a skill so often lacking in modern literature. I knew nothing of fae lore going into this, but Nash explains it all in an entertaining way. Plus, the glossary of terms at the end is quite useful.
The ancient world of the fae gets a modern University setting reminiscent of the clash of creatures in Harry Potter. A talking format is a true gem, as is the snarky Jib, a talking black cat. When a human falls prey to a selfish siren , it is up to a clever fae to break the spell. Nash is a master of revenge, having read the author's previous work, The Wicked Wolves of Windsor (read this book!) and revenge that takes on multiple layers is a skill so often lacking in modern literature. I knew nothing of fae lore going into this, but Nash explains it all in an entertaining way. Plus, the glossary of terms at the end is quite useful.
September 19, 2020
This was a light, entertaining read. Brigit, a dryad, attends Leopold Otto University in Geheimetür. It's a unique university in that it invites both humans and fae to study together. Unfortunately, that's also a recipe for trouble. When Brigit is kicked out of her room halfway through the spring semester, her friend suggests that she move in with a human who has a spare room. The human, Logan, had just gotten out of a relationship with a Siren and is slowly dying as a result of being away from her. Brigit and Logan make a pact in which she can live with him in return for breaking the hold the siren has on him. Chaos follows, along with a lot more fae and a sassy cat fae...it's complicated. But it sure is fun too.
January 14, 2020
Never Date a Siren is the first book in the College Fae series by Byrd Nash. This is my first book by this author and it will not be my last. Nash has created a world of Fae that will make you feel like you are apart of that world. Her characters are complex and could very well be part of your world. In this story Bridget is a Fae and is very bull headed and Logan, who is human not sure what is going on due to his magical abilities that he did not know he had. I found myself so engrossed in the story that I could not put it down. I enjoyed this book and I cannot wait to read the next book. Thank you Byrd Nash for this new series.
January 15, 2020
Never Date a Siren (College Fae Book 1) by Byrd Nash was a wonderful fantastical read. I enjoyed the world that was built and the mesh between fae and human. I adored Brigit as the main female lead. She was such a “wow” character with a unique perspective. I loved Brigit as being out guide through understanding the fae world and their expectations, it was a great way to build the world and introduce the reader to the implications of what is happening. Logan was a good character read, I found it interesting that the victim was the male lead but again it was a welcome change. I cannot wait to see what the author creates next in this series.
October 6, 2022
A Fun, Magical Story
A fun, magical story -- plus wonderful spinoff from Granny Starseed -- that will leave readers hooked from the start. Trust me, once you fall into this world of faes and gods and humans, you will be sad to see it end and be left wondering how the characters don't exist. I will definitely be waiting for the sequel. I must know what university life brings next for Brigit and Logan and their friends.
A fun, magical story -- plus wonderful spinoff from Granny Starseed -- that will leave readers hooked from the start. Trust me, once you fall into this world of faes and gods and humans, you will be sad to see it end and be left wondering how the characters don't exist. I will definitely be waiting for the sequel. I must know what university life brings next for Brigit and Logan and their friends.
July 28, 2020
Excellent Quick Read
An engaging story from the beginning, it leads you on an adventure through tangled relationships, multiple fae, and fae lore. A quick read, I finished it in a night, and enjoyed it immensely.
An engaging story from the beginning, it leads you on an adventure through tangled relationships, multiple fae, and fae lore. A quick read, I finished it in a night, and enjoyed it immensely.
June 27, 2020
What a great read, loved the setting with the fae and the humans and the twists were really intriguing. Very well written with great characters and plot. Looking forward to the next one.
August 15, 2020
An enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing the further adventures of the characters.
July 7, 2020
What a great start to a new fae series! I definitely was drawn to this book initially because of the beautiful cover, and I’m glad I picked this one up. I love how Nash took old folklore and fairytales and intertwined them into a modern setting. The story takes place at Leopold Otto University in mysterious Bewachterberg. Humans and fae are both invited to attend. The main character Brigit is a dryad, and Logan is an American student. Logan has been beguiled by a Siren, and Brigit becomes indebted to him, and they embark on an adventure. There are some fun side characters we meet as well. I think Jib is probably my favorite, he’s so smart-alecky!
I’m excited to find out what happens next in the sequel! Be sure to pick this one up if you’d like a fun, quick read.
I’m excited to find out what happens next in the sequel! Be sure to pick this one up if you’d like a fun, quick read.
July 8, 2021
When Logan breaks up with his fae girlfriend he hurtles into a downward spiral of depression. An encounter with a dryad, searching for a new housemate, opens his eyes to the curse hanging over his head. And it's going to take a whole group of weird and wonderful friends to break it.
I did struggle a little with the huge wealth of worldbuilding with its language and folk lore, but the plot rattled along apace and the various twists were good fun. I loved the slightly cynical feel to the story, in particular the code of conduct for the fae, with its honour bartering system.
If you're looking for fae romance, this isn't it. The narrative is far more spiky and leans towards irreverent humour amidst coming of age vibes. Hugely enjoyable shortish read.
I did struggle a little with the huge wealth of worldbuilding with its language and folk lore, but the plot rattled along apace and the various twists were good fun. I loved the slightly cynical feel to the story, in particular the code of conduct for the fae, with its honour bartering system.
If you're looking for fae romance, this isn't it. The narrative is far more spiky and leans towards irreverent humour amidst coming of age vibes. Hugely enjoyable shortish read.
December 4, 2020
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
This book is a fresh take on the faerie world and it is so inviting. It starts off like a small snowball, and once it gets rolling, it’s packs quite the literary punch! I’m a stickler for world building. Byrd Nash cleverly builds and explains her world through Brigit’s tutoring of Logan on Fae rules. Speaking of Brigit, can I just say that she is awesome. That is one dryad I would want in my corner. She is unapologetically true to herself and to her fellow bondmates.
Overall, I will definitely continue reading this series. I can’t wait to see what other adventures Brigit, and others get into.
This book is a fresh take on the faerie world and it is so inviting. It starts off like a small snowball, and once it gets rolling, it’s packs quite the literary punch! I’m a stickler for world building. Byrd Nash cleverly builds and explains her world through Brigit’s tutoring of Logan on Fae rules. Speaking of Brigit, can I just say that she is awesome. That is one dryad I would want in my corner. She is unapologetically true to herself and to her fellow bondmates.
Overall, I will definitely continue reading this series. I can’t wait to see what other adventures Brigit, and others get into.
April 25, 2020
I really liked Brigit as a character. She has spirit and I look forward to seeing more of her in the sequel. The world building is amazing; not too complex but intricate enough to get you hooked into the story. My only suggestion would be to put the glossary at the front as I would have found it easier to follow the story if I had known it was there.
September 29, 2020
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
April 17, 2020
A fun adventure at a college where Fae and humans collide with often disastrous effects.
July 5, 2021
Such a fun read! I couldn’t put it down and kinda wish I went to a Fae college! I really enjoyed this one!
June 13, 2021
The University in mysterious Bewachterberg invites both humans and fae to attend. Beware though, the administration doesn’t guarantee your safety! Imagine Naiads, Doppelgangers, Sirens and all the other mystical, magical beings going to University together. It can be heaven or hell or both. A student who does not know his entire magical history other than that he is a Bard is snagged by a Siren and falls in love. It nearly kills him when she dumps him and would have if not for the intervention of a Naiad. Together with great difficulty they fight the Siren and it is one heck of a battle. I will not give you any more of the tale other than it takes a while to figure out all the cast of characters and who the good guys are. Many of the magical names and places are difficult to pronounce and I ended up making up some of the pronunciations ! Enjoy the story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews