Coup de Coeur by Halli Starling

Coup de Coeur Reviews

• 
  Sue Miz

  Happy release day: How does one rate perfection? because this is exactly what this book is
  
  
  
  I already decided it's going to be 5 stars from the author's note at the beginning
  30% in, I stalked the author and followed them on all their social media
  50% in I ordered the book box out of Etsy
  
  I have read EVERY. SINGLE. WORD because it was euphoric.
  Exagerating??? no I am not
  
  This is a book for the ones who crave art in words
  who visualize while reading
  who enjoy the aesthetic character creation and perceptive setting importance
  and of course, who love to read diversly.
  
  ⚜Genre: Low fantasy
  ⚜Theme: Urban/Historical romance fantasy
  ⚜Targeted audience: New Adult/ Adult
  ⚜Characters: humans with magical abilities: Aubrey, Ethaniel, Calix, Lawton
  ⚜Representation: POC, MM, Polyamorous
  ⚜TW: Profanity, Violence, Sex, and Suicide
  ⚜ tropes: second chance, friends to lovers, medium-burn, one bed
  ⚜ POV: multiple third person
  ⚜ spice 🌶🌶 hot but subtle
  ⚜ rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟can I give it more?
  ⚜standalone: no, first in the series
  ⚜Ending: cliffhanger
  
  Set against the backdrop of an alternate 1899 New York City, where enchantments and sorcery are as ordinary as carriages and gas lamps, "Coup de Coeur" weaves a tale of four men bound by destiny to a mysterious and possibly conscious grimoire. As the book triggers a chain of events in this queer historical fantasy romance, it stirs a whirlwind of emotions—magic intertwines with passion, longing mingles with apprehension, and peril shadows their every step. Pursued by the clandestine Golden Order, determined to reclaim the grimoire, the trio, followed by the fourth, must navigate a labyrinth of love and danger, leading them to flee the city. Their journey is not just a flight from danger, but a quest to untangle their complex feelings amidst the chaos. "Coup de Coeur" is not only a nod to the vibrant queer history of New York City but also a homage to its rich artistic heritage.
  
  The magic system is subtle yet somehow unique. I don't think I've read anywhere where tailoring has been used as a magical power. Aubrey also possesses the power to heal, but not humans, rather inanimate objects.
  
  The bond between the characters develops at a rhythm that seamlessly unites all elements of the story. Comprising two duos, each pair shares a deep and personal connection. As their paths converge, their romance blossoms with elegance and grace. This measured progression ensures that every aspect of their relationships is explored, culminating in a romance that is both respectful and beautifully portrayed.
  
  With a masterful description, the setting of the book plays a crucial part in bringing out the story. I urge you to read through the author's note as intensive historical research of the time and place has been done. But what truly captivated me was the intricate depiction of the attire. The elaborate details bestowed upon each character's clothing brought out their unique essence and style, endowing them with an unmistakable flair that distinguished them in the narrative. This attention to sartorial detail not only defined the characters but also enriched the tapestry of the story's world.
  
  However, if you made me choose one thing that truly captivated me the entirety of my reading, it would have to be the writing style. Such beautiful wording and description! I was absolutely enchanted
  Elation was a slow burn of champagne fizz in his veins, but it was tampered with caution.
  
  As if someone had tied wings to his back and watched him learn to soar moments before he'd turned into Icarus.
  
  Ethaniel had called him a torch. Warm and safe, golden and glowing. That comment had lit Aubrey up from the inside and did to this day. For so long he'd been a lighthouse. A warning about magic mutating in families. A warning about being different and difficult. Would Claix see a lighthouse or a torch?
  
  One more thing, I rarely if ever see authors including their editor and cover art designers with their names on the book. So bravo to that, and what a gorgeous cover and amazing editing they are.
  
  I wish I could write more on the magnificence of this book. I am honored that the author considered me for the ARC. I am forever a fan and cannot wait for the sequel.
  
  
  my pinterest
• 
  Kalie

  the marvellous light girlies are going to eat this UP!!
• 
  trice

  i had high expectations for this book. and it did not disappoint. it scratched all of my itches - poly, fantasy, history, everything.
  
  i knew i was going to like it when i read the author's note cos holy hell the author was dedicated...the amount of research?? damn. we like a well-informed author.
  
  the characters are pretty distinct, and they definitely have chemistry, but it does feel kind of weird that calix put so much trust into aubrey & ethaniel barely weeks into their relationship. altho i suppose it does fit in with his 'naive fuerdai' persona?? aubrey was my personal fave out of the trio cos he's a cool history nerd. lawton's character was done beautifully (the profit motive vs infatuation with calix) and i'm probably supposed to hate him more than i actually do.
  
  the romance is okay, cos i'm expecting it'll develop, but ethaniel & aubrey's make up did take up half-ish of the screen time for this book. i kinda wish there was more ethaniel-calix bonding.
  
  the plot was amazing there was action and romance and mystery and just a little bit of smut ahahaha. can't say i saw the vincent plot twist coming, but i definitely called the last plot twist (*￣︶￣) but honestly that cliffhanger should be illegal urngjergelguaighar and the sequel is out NEXT YEAR 😭😭😭
  
  but like can we just appreciate how rare an actually good fantasy/historical fiction with a poly romance is??? totally lucked out getting an arc :P
  
  4.5 stars
• 
  S

  This is an ARC review.
  
  This is a historical urban fantasy set in 1800s NYC and I AM HERE FOR IT. 1800s NYC is like a bat signal for me, and exploring the queer aspects of the time period shines that beacon right into the sky. Add in a magic system that has do with patterns (fractals are magic you can’t change my mind) and queer characters and I’m done for.
  
  This is a fantasy in the proper sense, and the first in the series, so you’re only just beginning to get a grasp on the magic system and world here with so much more room to grow. I love learning with the characters, and the urban setting makes that much more comfortable. There’s a bit of a mystery in the plot as Calix, a young lord with psychic powers, accidentally comes into possession of magic/scary book. Calix then enlists Ethaniel, a softhearted patterner, and Aubrey, a cool bookish nerd with his own magic, to deal with the magic item. AND THEN THEY DO MORE THAN THAT because that’s right, this is a POLY ROMANCE! And their relationship is so well written.
  
  Meanwhile, Calix is also dealing with his manipulative bestie/lover in a complicated relationship that is handled with a lot of nuance and really made me emotional. Also there’s a cult, a bathhouse, and some pretty apt metaphors. Honestly, what else do we need? Oh yeah, the SEQUEL!
• 
  Mirto

  Wow. Just wow. This is one of the coolest worlds I've ever read about. With a damn lot of winks to actual 19th century NYC queer history, the fantasy aspects of this book elevate it to such higher grounds. We follow 4 characters, all of them intricate and beautiful in their unique way: the gentle Earl with powers that overwhelm him, the charming and driven best friend, the selfless magical tailor and the brilliant curator of a magical collection - and a powerful (evil!!!) book that connects them all.
  
  I was completely enamoured with the way Starling writes relationships. One of the things that makes every single character so complex is how every friend, family member, lover that is mentioned have such a huge impact on them that you can understand why they are the way they are, why they make the choices they do, the motives behind the way they act. It's astounding that there was so much of this accomplished in the first book of a series. The world is vivid, the magical system intriguing, the writing fluid, the vibes immaculate. I believe I found a new series to make my whole personality about 😌
• 
  Lou Nova

  (4.5 stars!)
  
  With lush and incredibly thoughtful worldbuilding, I was absolutely spellbound.
  This is evident as soon as you open the book - @hallistarling has implemented a detailed foreword, complete with a main character list of pronouns and sexuality.
  
  The connections between the characters - especially those romantically involved, past and present - was incredibly tender and had me at multiple times going all mushy and having to pause to process how good it was.
  
  Loved how much this world and characters gripped me, and my GOD that cliffhanger!! Can’t wait until the sequel!!
  Thank you so much Halli for the ARC!
• 
  Sazzy

  I'm very hit & miss on fantasy books but a friend recommended this, then I saw it as an ARC and I thought 'Why not?!' - Good Lord I'm glad I read this. Once I started I couldn't put it down, literally stood next to the cooker with my kindle stirring a stir-fry!!!
  
  It's phenomenal. The characters, the world building - it's off the scale! Also - Lawton ❤️
  
  The characters are phenomenal and you can literally feel their connections to each other, it made me go a bit soft if I'm honest and that doesn't happen often!!
  
  I loved this, really loved it - the only thing I didn't love was a cliff-hanger!!! But my GOD what a cliff-hanger it is!!!! Next book ASAP please
  Halli Starling
  
  I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
  
• 
  Jace

  I read this as ARC received by author and I would love to thank for it once more.
  
  I just finished (4am 12/5/24) so I will write just quick thoughts right after finishing, before I will write full review.
  
  +characters they were lovely and i really loved the chemistry
  +different types of magic abilities
  +Ethaniel's care for his uncle
  
  - long ass chapters for short book, I usually like long chapters, but this was just not it. It took me like month to finish this book just because of the long chapters cuz it felt like i was reading like 1000pgs long book.
  - not enough description of magic
  - fast romance😅. Like imagine stereotypical lesbian couple when after two weeks of dating they start to live together, and speed it up. That's how fast this romance was.
  - I didn't make connections to the characters even though I like them, so it didn't push me to read all time long and I didn't really care what will happen next.
• 
  Denise

  Queer historical fantasy is a genre I absolutely love, and having enjoyed several of Starling's previous novels, picking up this new release was a no-brainer.
  
  Set in an alternate 1899 New York where magic thrives, Coup de Coeur combines a sweet and sexy poly romance between its three well-drawn central characters with a plot involving a powerful magical artifact sought after by an unscrupulous secret order that won't hesitate to employ any means necessary in pursuit of its aims.
  
  I loved the settings in this book, built on extensive research into the city's queer history that is apparent throughout, and the plot was engaging, but took a bit of a backseat to the romance at times that I felt did the book a disservice. The romance moved a bit too quickly for my liking, I liked the three MCs and the relationship developing between them, but would have liked a slower burn. On the whole, I enjoyed this book, but didn't fall as irrevocably in love with it as with some of the author's other works.
  
  *** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. ***
• 
  Shrike

  I picked up Coup de Coeur for a mental break from darker books. I enjoyed the playful and steamy flirtation among Aubrey, Ethaniel, and Calix. Starling is great at writing pining! I also found the descriptive language of color and texture  immersive.
  
  I didn't feel as satisfied by the plot. Ethaniel and Aubrey have history, but I was surprised by Calix's sudden infatuation with these near-strangers. I also found it jarring when the plot pauses for bonding scenes. This gave me the impression that the romance comes at the expense of the story.
  
  I like Aubrey, Ethaniel, and Calix. I'd just be more invested if their relationship were more grounded within the plot.
  
  Thank you for the chance to read this ARC for free. I'm leaving this review of my own accord.
• 
  Yannai

  **Thank you to Halli Starling for the eARC**
  
  4.5/5
  
  "Coup de coeur" carries its title well, it was nearly a gold star experience (a "coup de coeur" can mean being quite infatuated or fall in love with something in french). I loved the original, intricate and lively magic system, beautiful desribed by the author ; I enjoyed the detailed but easy to discover historical New York ; and I loved the cast of characters, each of them being well flesh out and endearing in their own way. The attraction and desire between the three men was lovely to read in addition to th mystery surrounding the book and the danger coming from the Golden Order, as well as betrayals. The chracters' feelings are perfectly rendered without slowing the story too much, the slow burn romance is marvelous. I can't wait to know more about the world and its intricacies, to see where to author will lead us with this really promising story.
  I devoured the book as quickly as I could (meaning in more or less three little days), and am now craving for book two. If you love magic, polyamourous romance and historical settings, this book may be for you !
• 
  Sandra

  A historical romance with magic and it's queer? This book had me at the description.
  
  We start with Calix, who tends to let his old friend Lawton lead him into both good time and trouble. When Lawton entangles himself with the wrong people Calix is left literally holding the bag, which contains a mysterious magical book.
  
  Calix, who seeks help from his tailor/crush Ethaniel, who is a talent magical tailor. Ethaniel then engages the help of his old friend/lover Aubrey, whose an expert in magical objects.
  
  The three of them bond quickly as they attempt to discover the books secrets while being perused by a secret society called The Golden Order. The magical book may contain more power than any one person should have.
  
  So, there's a lot happening in this story and a lot to cover. I love how everyone has their type of magic and how it works in this world. Calix, Ethaniel and Aubrey are all such different, well rounded characters. The three work on managing how to escape with their passion for each other.
  
  The book was exciting and kept me on my toes. The world is interesting and the characters engaging. I will say I had no idea it would end in such a massive cliffhanger! Can't wait for book 2. If you love romance, magic and adventure I recommend this book.
  
  Thanks you NetGalley and Victory Editing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Alex (soulfullyalex)

  I was so lucky to be able to beta read this and its taken me ages to write this review but that has nothing to do with the magic of this book and everything to do with my slow brain.
  
  Okay, where do I even start. Coup is a magical, dark, heartbreaking, and decedent start to a series. It's filled with magic that isn't easily put in a box or explained. It's got characters with pasts and complicated relationships. Characters that have made mistakes, hurt people, and who are so brilliantly real that I loved them for all their faults. This book was not what I expected. Honestly I don't expect anything going into books anymore. I try to go in blind, but this one hit me like a truck in the best ways. The relationship between Ethaniel, Calix, and Aubrey was filled with so much tension and yearning. It was filled with characters that made mistakes and set things in motion for reasons you could see and understand even if you wanted to smack them in the process.
  
  I love how we learn more about all the characters pasts as the plot unfold. It makes for a plot I couldn't predict. Also the weaving of cunning folk into the magic was so interesting and unique. I can't say enough how much I loved the magic. I adore magic that isn't fully understood or explained. There's always a bit of mystery to how the magic works and that makes me so intrigued.
  
  Needless to say this was a 5 star read for me. I was so invested in all the POV characters. I was rooting for the romance and feeling so many feelings for the characters as they navigated through everything. I am absolutely at the edge of my seat with that ending and I can't wait to read book 2 when it's ready.
  
  If you like sentient books, magic that has a cost, blooming relationships between three lovely and complex characters, and villains that are more like people with questionable morals and harmful ideals this is the book for you.
• 
  Trish Skywalker

  I’m pretty sure I read for about 10 hours straight because I couldn’t put this book down!
  Set in New York City 1899 (for all you Newsies fans, yes that was the year of the Newsboys Strike), this book explores queer culture of the time mixed with fascinating magical realism. A stunning mix of history, fantasy, and romance.
  We follow four characters throughout the story: Calix, a gentle, trusting soul with rare magical powers; Lawton, his oldest friend who often straddles the line between friend and user; Ethaniel, a magical tailor with a heart of gold, and Aubrey, a brilliant man with healing powers that most don’t possess.
  There is so much going on in this story, and I don’t want to spoil any of it! There’s a mysterious quasi-religious cult, a magical artifact with dark intentions, secrets, mysteries, and deception. It’s non-stop action, with a budding MMM romance weaved throughout.
  I loved this story, I loved the characters, and I loved their unique and original magical abilities. I really loved the old New York that Halli created, which is based on historical facts with lots of added magical intrigue.
  AND THE ENDING!!! I audibly gasped!! I cannot wait for book two!
  Thank you so much for this amazing arc Halli!!
• 
  Lisa

  The best way I can describe Coup de Coeur is a queer late 19th century serial drama. There is a beginning and a middle, but the ending feels far down the road. Although Goodreads doesn't indicate it, Coup de Coeur must be the first in a series given where the characters land on the last page, but even if there was a more closed ending, the book would still feel as if it ended on the denouement.
  
  The meandering structure of Coup de Coeur isn't necessarily a bad thing if you are fond of serial dramas. The book is more of a character study than rooted in action, which all good serial dramas should be. The action is there to push the characters rather than the characters moving the story along. Although there are harrowing moments in the book, the rising action never feels like it gets too high and there is no one real climax (or if there is, I failed to spot it). As such, the resolution simply comes without much warning.
  
  Coup de Coeur follows Calix, a British Earl transplanted in New York City along with his childhood friend Lawton. Lawton is that friend that makes you feel needed when it suits him, but otherwise takes without giving much in return. They exist in a world where magic is real, but not all possess it. The magic system is unique, but I admit it confused me. Only towards the end of the book was I able to actually imagine what is happening when someone uses magic. This didn't ruin the story for me--you can be confused about the magic system and still enjoy the book. Anyway, Calix has premonitions; Lawton has no magic.
  
  Calix's life is upended when he's dragged along on one of Lawton's schemes and then sent running when it goes bad, with a magical book that speaks to him in his head. Through a series of events, he teams up with Ethaniel, who I think creates and sees magical patterns and puts them on clothing or objects (again, I was a little confused), and Ethaniel's ex, Aubrey, a curator who has the ability to fix magical objects. They need to figure out what this book is and why some very dangerous people are after it--people that Lawton appears to be involved with.
  
  It was at the point where the plot began to develop that I realized this book was more about its characters than the action. We get four points of view--Calix, Lawton, Ethaniel and Aubrey. As the reader, we are hearing all the thoughts in these characters' heads, and I really wanted for Calix, Ethaniel and Aubrey's voices to be better differentiated. Because Lawton is the most obviously flawed character, his was the most clearly defined voice. We are told that Aubrey is serious and Ethaniel is creative and Calix is shy with self-doubt, but I would have liked those attributes to be better distinguished in their own thoughts. Out of the three, Calix's voice was probably the best defined, but only because thoughts of self-doubt are easier to spot.
  
  One of my least favorite aspects of sitting inside Calix's, Aubrey's and Ethaniel's heads actually surprised me given that I like romance: I got tired of them thinking about each other. There is a romantic subplot between the three of them woven throughout the story, and they all have intrusively romantic thoughts about each other constantly, even in moments where their lives are in danger. All of the romantic thoughts are selfless, giving, loving and starry-eyed. Not a selfish thought anywhere to be found, and I actually wanted these characters to have more conflicted thoughts about each other because it was all just too romantic all the time. That probably will appeal to a lot of people. I just wanted these characters to be more flawed; more real. I also wanted to slap them upside their heads more than once because *now is not the time for that*.
  
  Ultimately, though, Coup de Coeur is a unique tale that will appeal to readers who love (not just like) romance, and enjoy a good serial drama.
  
  *Thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
• 
  Anna

  “Coup de Coeur” by Halli Starling
  
  5⭐️/5⭐️
  2🌶/5🌶
  
  “There is something wrong with this damn book. This whole situation.”
  
  -I knew from the first page that this would be a really special and incredible story. As with any Halli Starling book, one can expect approachable characters who aren’t afraid to show their emotions and communicate their feelings, swift and clever writing, and the ability to capture readers’ attention with unique circumstances and challenges. I must say, this is Halli’s best work yet, and I’m incredibly excited to read more in this series.
  
  -”Coup de Coeur” is one part historical romance, one part fantasy, and one part paranormal. The setting is an alternate version of New York City in 1899, where magic is woven into the fabric of society. There are several main characters, all of whom are singularly focused on a specific grimoire. However, their intentions are not the same, which creates complications, tense moments, and daring scenes of confrontation.
  
  -Readers first meet Lawton and Calix, two of the four main characters, as they embark on a night out to enjoy each other’s company. We can see immediately that there is something not being said between the two of them, but despite that they still crave each other. These two characters provide angsty turmoil throughout the whole story. It also begs the question: can you really trust the people you invite into your life?
  
  -It doesn’t take long before we meet Ethaniel, a tailor who incorporates magic and spell work into the clothing they create. He has a complicated history with the last main character, Aubrey, a curator who owns a rare antiquity shop. Aubrey ended up being my favorite character, I loved how he commanded each scene he was in, and all of the wisdom and knowledge he shared.
  
  -But underneath all actions in the story lies a nefarious organization who will stop at nothing to possess the grimoire: the Golden Order. To me, there are some parallels between what the Golden Order espouses concerning the use of magic, and the way organized religion seeks to control the masses. I might be completely off with this assessment, but my mind kept circling back to this comparison.
  
  -It’s immediately apparent how much research Halli has done prior to writing the book, and I’m so impressed with how much real history is transposed into “Coup de Coeur”. Read the author’s note (I advise reading it twice, both before and after reading the book), look at the list of references and suggested reading in the back of the book. I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance novel where the author has so carefully curated their source materials, and presented it in a way that helps readers better understand the roots of the story.
  
  -I cannot emphasize enough how much I enjoyed reading this book, following its characters, and learning more about the world Halli has created. There are many twists and turns, moments that will shock readers. But there’s also beauty in the way Calix, Ethaniel, and Aubrey all must rely on each other, and find trust among themselves. This is my new favorite Halli Starling book, and definitely within my top reads of 2024.
  
• 
  Hundred Acre

  I don't think words I write here can really do justice to the sheer beauty and sparkling magic that is Coupe de Coeur. Halli Starling had me hooked not only because history is my thing but also because this is a history I knew nothing about, until reading this book. Of course there is a very big dose of fantasy with this story but it is rooted in a fascinating and rarely told New York history, queer history. For culture lovers there is a lot of that too. From art to rare books and even costume tailoring, it is all here in simply exquisite detail.
  
  Calix Addington doesn't brag about being an Earl, being rich or having a very special type of magic. It isn't that he doesn't have anyone to brag to (even though he doesn't) it is more the case that he is wary of his abilities and is just beginning to realise that he needs to stand strong, find himself and assert himself. He has only one real friend in Lawton but it is beginning to dawn on him that Lawton is bad for him, is using him and is all too often leaving Calix holding the bag.
  
  When that latter actually happens there is only one person Calix can think to turn to, someone whom he barely knows but instinctively trusts. Oh, and the fact that the book in the bag he is running with has directed him to Ethaniel's tailoring shop may have something to do with it. Calix has no idea what Lawton has inadvertently drawn them both into, we have no idea either. Halli Starling has masterfully disguised the clues which makes reading this story all the more alluring, fascinating and impossible to turn away from.
  
  We feel at home in the New York she describes even though it is a time and place we have never been to. She crafts it so elegantly we feel drawn into it, almost familiar with it. And the characters are subtly but very certainly drawn out for us throughout the novel. We discover them and discover with them. We feel the magic of the strands of the story in the same way that Ethanial the tailor feels and sees the threads of his creations. As three lives tangle along with magic, lust, fear, love and danger we know we are only at the beginning of the story of the Oracle, Tailor and Curator and I for one can't wait to see where the journey is going to take us.
  
  I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
• 
  Menoa

  First of all thanks booksiren for the arc
  
  Coup de cœur is my fourth book from the author and this read solidified her place in my instant buy author. I loved everything I’ve read from her !
  
  Coup de cœur is a story about convergence (if you know you know), the story is told in 3,5 povs : Calix, Aubrey, Ethaniel and one more but maybe it’s better to discover it !
  
  The three mcs are super different. Calix is an heir, rich and bored with his life, his only friend is not a good person and he’s the reason why Calix’s life will be in danger in the first place. We don’t like much his best friend here. Assume that if Lawton has no friend it’s because I’m dead 🥰. He literally USED Calix for yeaaaaars. Calix is a gentle soul, his magic kind of scares him and he’s trying his best to navigate his life the best way he can. I love him so much and I really need to put him in a burrito blanket.
  
  Ethaniel is a tailor, his magic was the most intriguing one, he can see patterns, be it in clothing or in magic, he can also sew them into clothes and that’s how he meets Calix for the first time ! He’s also taking care of his uncle who’s really sick and it put lots of pressure on him. He already knows Aubrey, they were lovers until things went south. They still care deeply about one another. He’s a very caring man and he didn’t hesitate for one moment before helping Calix. Gosh I think we all need an Ethaniel in our life.
  
  Aubrey is a museum curator and HE’S HOT.
  That’s it.
  He’s also a very closed off man, agonising over the fact that he pushed Ethaniel away months ago. He first appeared in the story trying to buy books at an auction but alas Lawton got to it first: kickstarting the WHOLE thing. (Yeah I really dont like Lawton 🔪)
  Aubrey is instantly attracted towards Calix and when fate brings him to both Ethaniel and Calix: they find something between them that might be worth everything.
  
  
  The story is a whirlwind, never a dull moment and we’re always on our toes never knowing what will happen to them. And that fucking book, I swear they need to burn it.
  Also I need book 2 pls and thanks.
  
  
  This book is for everyone who love magic, queer representation, awful sects and fighting for your life.
• 
  marreep

  Thank you to NetGalley and Halli Starling for the eARC.
  
  A historical MMM romance in a world with magic? I could not have requested the ARC quicker!
  
  I loved the choice for the setting of this story, you could tell how much research and care were behind it. I was also very intrigued by the magic system and how magic manifested differently in our main characters. I was at times a little confused by how exactly the patterns worked, but the way the use of magic was described so vividly still made the magic a favorite part of mine.
  
  The setup in the first part of the book is done really well, and I was quickly interested in the characters (with their different backgrounds, past and current struggles) and where the story would take them.
  
  Unfortunately, I was then rather surprised that it was the characters and the romance that I struggled with, which was rather disappointing as this was what I most anticipated when picking the book up. My main gripe was that the romance went way way too fast. We’re talking about I-would-do-anything-for-them style of thoughts after about a day of properly knowing each other. While I did enjoy their flirting (and boosting Calix’s confidence!), it all got very romantic very fast, which just did not work for me personally. I was expecting something thrilling, complex, messy and interesting in regards to the romantic and sexual relationship between the three main characters, but was ultimately left rather bored. I also think the pacing and the plot, which I think had good potential if it had been polished a bit more, suffered from it. Hopefully, the sequel touches more upon the magic and the backgrounds of the characters, as I believe that there is more that can be explored there as well.
  
  If you like a fast romance that is more sweet than complex and takes place in a historical setting with interesting magic, then I think you would have a really good time with this book.
• 
  Johnsnowwasright

  Thank you to Halli Starling and Net Galley for the e ARC!
  
  This book was the definition of mid. I didn't hate it but there was definitely room for improvement.
  
  I thought that the setting and time period were great choices. Queer friendly areas of NYC at the turn of the 20th century and there's magic?! Sign me up! Unfortunately, the world and the magic system were not developed to the point where everything felt so superficial. I think there was far too much time building the polyamorous relationship between our three main characters and pretty much everything else suffered for it.
  
  First and foremost, what is the magic system and how does it work? I know that it vaguely involves patterns but beyond that I have no idea. Starling doesn't seem like she has any idea either and I'm wondering if she gave it any real thought. Secondly, important pieces of the plot were not established appropriately and felt tacked on. The biggest example would be the the head of the Golden Order and how they are related to our main trio. The second biggest example would be Calix's mother. Her struggles with magic and her death have obviously left a huge mark on Calix but barely any time is spent on why. (And this obviously hurts the ending.)
  
  I also personally don't think there was enough action to fill this entire book. Scenes could have been cut and probably merged with the next book for a better paced story.
  
  I am willing to give this 3 stars as I do love our three main characters. Their budding polyamorous relationship was very sweet and the vibes of the world were there. I just think this story needed more beta reading and editing to give it more dimension.
• 
  Alex

  I received an eARC through NetGalley and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
  
  This should have been right up my alley based on the concept, but I still struggled with it. It took me a month to get through half of it, then I had to rush to finish it before it expires, which wasn't a good way to read it. I think it's the kind of book where you have to savor the language more.
  
  Anyway. Coup de Coeur is a gay polyamorous romance in a historical fantasy setting, focusing on three (or four) men whose life is connected by a strange and dangerous magical object, which an infamous secret society also wants. Calix, Ethaniel and Aubrey are quite busy between trying to find out more about the book and running for their lives, but thankfully they still find the time to visit gay bathhouses, which I think are glorious.
  
  The book itself starts with several author's notes, including a description of the four protagonists, which felt very info dump-y to me. I admit I don't really remember any of what was described there, including the modern identity labels, because it was just too much too fast without any context or reason to care. I would have preferred to get to know the characters organically and maybe include the descriptions and the historical context at the end instead.
  
  It's clear that a lot of research went into this book, and there is a very interesting reading list at the end for those who are more interested in the themes of the book. But at the end of the day, I suppose I was bored for most of it. Also, this book did not earn my trust to pull off a cliffhanger like that. But I'll keep an eye on the sequel and decide whether to read it once it has a blurb.
• 
  Ash Gordon

  4.5 stars!
  
  What an incredible queer (and polyam!!) historical romance with amazingly interesting and complex characters and a compulsively readable plot line!!!
  
  The romance is whirlwind, but in a way that is so deeply realistic for the queer experience, especially historically. Coup de Coeur very much reminds me that: We must love quickly and deeply- Who knows how much time we'll have with each other?
  
  The interactions between the three lovers as they get to know one another feel very real. The dynamic they have is excellent. I easily fell in love with their love. I could genuinely have read hundreds of pages of just their banter. And admittedly- They're hot as hell together as well. The romance in this novel had me setting down my phone to pace around in excitement. It also made me feel incredibly seen as a polyamorous person.
  
  The world building is so interesting and I cannot wait to see it expanded upon in the sequel. There's so much intrigue and potential with the plot and I know I'll be thinking about it for days. Plus the magic system feels like it was created for me specifically. So many cool ideas that I'm completely enamoured with!!
  
  This is the sort of book that upon finishing it I immediately wanted to get on Tumblr and reblog so much fanart for it. It's honestly a tragedy that there isn't a fandom for this book and I can't do just that. I don't know how I'm going to wait for 2025 for the sequel!!
• 
  Elizabeth

  This book was a ton of fun. I truly enjoyed every moment of it. Historical books, in general, always have a feeling to them that I absolutely adore.
  
  As with most historical romances, the relationship aspect moves very quickly, but I don't mind that one bit. It fits the narrative and the expediency of things, especially when looking at it from a same-sex relationship and how things were viewed back then. It all makes perfect sense.
  
  I really love the characters. I didn't realize going into this that it was an MMMRomance, but it should definitely be stated as such since I am aware some people do not necessarily like thruples. (Though in hindsight, I suppose I should have gleaned it from the summary, but I didn't, so I'm just putting it out there for everyone else.) I, on the other hand, adore them.
  
  Calix, Aubrey, and Ethaniel are so good. I love their interactions. Their dynamic is really fun, and they play off of each other so well. The magic in this book is also subtle but good. It's very much made to be a thing that happens without too much fanfare about it. It feels natural. Nothing about it feels especially forced, so it lends itself to a weird sense of realism where this could have theoretically happened at some point.
  
  This is truly a fun book with great worldbuilding and storytelling. Fantastic characters and a great tone. I cannot wait for book two.
• 
  A Bookworm In Chile

  If you want to know how much I enjoyed Coup de Cœur, you need look no further than the following: I had a blistering headache preventing me from reading so I used the read-aloud function on my phone to finish all because I was desperate to know what happened.
  
  Yes, it was really that good.
  
  I loved the mixing of New York's colorful queer history and a rather detailed magic system. They were woven together skillfully so that nothing felt contrived or out of place. And, set against this backdrop is the story of three likable characters and their unbelievably wholesome relationship (which, to be frank, often had me grinning like a fool). I like a good bit of spice as much the next person and there is indeed some of that here, but what really appeals to me are loving, supportive, and fun relationships, something that shines through here. There is the undeniable sense that aside from any physical attraction (and don't worry, there is plenty of that) all three leads truly have each other's back. Add the fact that each is a magical powerhouse in their own right and you really can't go wrong.
  
  More please.
  
  I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
• 
  Yvonne

  From the moment I started reading this book, I was immediately transported to 19th century New York, the descriptive style made me feel I was there following Calix (Oracle), Ethaniel(Tailor) and Aubrey(Curator).
  This story kept my attention from page one. Calix whilst an Earl never once flaunted his nobility, he was the jam in the jam sandwich, Ethaniel was a care giver, had a heart of gold and Aubrey whilst he came across at times as cold, he was passionate. Each had a different magic to bring to the story and I really enjoyed reading how Ethaniel weaved his magic with his trade.
  This was a story about the characters finding each other and the start of beautiful romance. There was also the good vs evil, with them coming up against the Golden Order and the times when they were confronted was exciting. Before I knew it I had finished the book and one thing a cliffhanger, I was not expecting that. I've got questions on the Golden Order, What is their end game? What does the book do?
  I cant believe I have to wait to find out so I am off to follow this new to me author so I do not miss out. An excellent read
• 
  Rachel Emily

  If you’re looking for a historical romance with queer rep, magic, danger, a really unique and fun magic system, and magical realism, then you need to check out this book.

The story revolves around 3 men - Calix, Aubrey, and Ethaniel, and the dangers they get caught up in between a book, a magical organization, and those against magic users, all set during turn of the century NYC but with a bit of a twist.
  ‌
  I really loved the magic system in this one. It revolves around menders - those who can weave magic into patterns of clothing. It’s just so cool and unique!
  
  I did feel like some of the middle got boggled down for me, slowed down the pace a bit and I was unsure on a few of the decisions by the characters. I definitely loved all 3 MCs and the dynamics they brought to the story. I can't wait to see how their relationship continues to grow and change.
  ‌
  I think if you loved A Marvelous Light, Witchmark, and KJ Charles’ Magpie and Simon Feximal series, then you will love this one!
  
  I received a copy for a book tour. My thoughts are my own.
• 
  KayCee K

  A phenomenal queer fantasy in an alternate New York City with romance, magic, and spellbound journey,
  
  Another queer fantasy is anyone surprised... I didn't think so but what surprised me was how I feel for this book. It swept me away into its magical world. What drew me in rather that it was just being queer and fantasy but the author got inspiration from the real-life queer history of New York City. The mash-up of city and magic is well done. I liked the balance that the author has between the city setting and the magic setting.
  
  The author, Halli Starling, does a great job building a backdrop and teaching the reader about the magic system. It's a wide range of magic from tailoring, healing, inanimate objects, etc. Everything is a part of the character's life & plot; and not an event that they must do to get to the next plot point. Please look into the content as there are very dark and heavy topics talked and covered about.
  
  A book cover that's just as beautiful as the story within; a vivid, magical adventures, and a love story you can't help but root for.
• 
  Meredith Katz

  Coup De Coeur is a beautifully written poly queer romance set in 1800s NYC. It's clearly nicely researched, with the magic folded into the local flourishing of both Black and gay culture in the area. The writing is elegant and precise, and the character relationships start complicated. I did however find the magic system a little vague and undetailed, and the pacing was rather slow -- the inciting incident for the plot only happens about a quarter of the way through and doesn't actually move into 'inciting' status (rather than incident) until about a third of the way through. The writing style got in its way occasionally; something would happen, and then there would be four to five pages of a character thinking about it before the next thing happened; which is often good, but in places slowed the action down when it could have stood to let the excitement and action build. Still, a good read with great technical skill and love behind it, and it's so nice to see more queer poly historicals.
  
  Thank you for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.