Kayleigh
Okay, this is a lot of thoughts. I... don't know where to even begin.
First, let me say [Kingfisher] is the /epitome/ of a green flag boyfriend. Because what do you mean, he understands that Saeris is her own person, and should be free to make her own decisions even though he's mated to her? Because most of the mated pairs I've read about at least think they have SOME control over their fated. I love me a supportive MMC, with no question whatsoever that the FMC can handle her own shit.
Also, where can I get me my own Carrion Swift? I thought he was great in Quicksilver, but my god do I need a carbon copy of him right now. I don't even need him to be my boyfriend, I just need his company as a friend. The way he supports Saeris the entire time, knowing that he isn't nearly up to the same strength that she is. The way he knows just how to break the tension, in the best way possible. His whole freaking self-discovery was a story on it's own. I feel like I read 3 books in one; The Story of Saeris, The Story of Kingfisher, & The Story of Carrion Swift.
Callie really outdid herself with this book. I truly was dropping my jaw at all moments of the book. When I thought characters were going to turn on us, when I thought characters would die, when I thought characters would be stuck apart or left behind. Ugh, the ups and downs kept me reeling.
Towards the middle end, after Saeris had the book from Edina for a while and started to 'magically' figure things out, it got a little tropey. But it wasn't so bad that it deterred me from continuing. Honestly, the idea of Edina leading Saeris from the past is so well written. Edina knows that Saeris is going to want to open the book and read ahead. But she also knows that despite her undying curiosity, she's not going to risk the lives of those she holds dear and take the risks. It just feels like Saeris randomly knowing things without it being in the book is a little TOO reaching.
Finally having a different name to call Fisher though, ugh my heart is so happy. While I love the idea of his name origins, and that the Fae cannot reveal their true names, it just fits him so much better. And his nickname she immediately gives him? UGH my heart π. But I was NOT expecting the fact that he was a half-god?! Like...okay, that didn't show anywhere to me!
I figured that brimstone would have to come from dragons, being that the only other source they could get it from was the fire sprites. What else lives off the heat that they need to survive, but also replenishes it's own source? Dragons! I don't forgive Callie for Onyx though. Not even a little. Bringing him back does not relieve me of the trauma of losing him π.
All in all, I truly loved this book. It was a gift that kept on giving. I loved the arc spent with Fisher & Carrion, them becoming more allies than enemies. I loved learning about the friends that Saeris was beginning to have, and their own paths. I loved seeing her come into her powers more, and start to feel like she ACTUALLY belongs there.
This book was dense. I genuinely felt like I read 3 different books in the span of a week. (Not that that's not uncommon, but still.) I kept expecting the book to end, only for it to continue. There were many places that Callie could have ended it, driving us crazy with suspense. Where it did end though, was perfect. It was enough of a cliffhanger to make you scream "WTF", but also didn't leave us in complete limbo; we knew that our favorites were alive, we knew that Onyx was not dead, everyone was accounted for, and we weren't left wondering about too many things. The whole thing with Everlayne is still up in the air, but we know that she is at least alive and within a safe place. We know what happened to Tal, Zovena, and Renfis. We know that Hayden is struggling, but he's alive and protected for the time being. She could have ended it so much worse, but she gave us the peace of knowing that the only uncertainty lay with our two MCs.
Bravo, Callie. Truly. I cannot wait for the 3rd and (I believe) final book in the series. I can't wait to see where she takes our favorites, and how this story ends. Everything leads to Saeris dying; but will she truly, or will someone else maybe take her place? Hayden, perhaps? π
Okay, this is a lot of thoughts. I... don't know where to even begin.
First, let me say [Kingfisher] is the /epitome/ of a green flag boyfriend. Because what do you mean, he understands that Saeris is her own person, and should be free to make her own decisions even though he's mated to her? Because most of the mated pairs I've read about at least think they have SOME control over their fated. I love me a supportive MMC, with no question whatsoever that the FMC can handle her own shit.
Also, where can I get me my own Carrion Swift? I thought he was great in Quicksilver, but my god do I need a carbon copy of him right now. I don't even need him to be my boyfriend, I just need his company as a friend. The way he supports Saeris the entire time, knowing that he isn't nearly up to the same strength that she is. The way he knows just how to break the tension, in the best way possible. His whole freaking self-discovery was a story on it's own. I feel like I read 3 books in one; The Story of Saeris, The Story of Kingfisher, & The Story of Carrion Swift.
Callie really outdid herself with this book. I truly was dropping my jaw at all moments of the book. When I thought characters were going to turn on us, when I thought characters would die, when I thought characters would be stuck apart or left behind. Ugh, the ups and downs kept me reeling.
Towards the middle end, after Saeris had the book from Edina for a while and started to 'magically' figure things out, it got a little tropey. But it wasn't so bad that it deterred me from continuing. Honestly, the idea of Edina leading Saeris from the past is so well written. Edina knows that Saeris is going to want to open the book and read ahead. But she also knows that despite her undying curiosity, she's not going to risk the lives of those she holds dear and take the risks. It just feels like Saeris randomly knowing things without it being in the book is a little TOO reaching.
Finally having a different name to call Fisher though, ugh my heart is so happy. While I love the idea of his name origins, and that the Fae cannot reveal their true names, it just fits him so much better. And his nickname she immediately gives him? UGH my heart π. But I was NOT expecting the fact that he was a half-god?! Like...okay, that didn't show anywhere to me!
I figured that brimstone would have to come from dragons, being that the only other source they could get it from was the fire sprites. What else lives off the heat that they need to survive, but also replenishes it's own source? Dragons! I don't forgive Callie for Onyx though. Not even a little. Bringing him back does not relieve me of the trauma of losing him π.
All in all, I truly loved this book. It was a gift that kept on giving. I loved the arc spent with Fisher & Carrion, them becoming more allies than enemies. I loved learning about the friends that Saeris was beginning to have, and their own paths. I loved seeing her come into her powers more, and start to feel like she ACTUALLY belongs there.
This book was dense. I genuinely felt like I read 3 different books in the span of a week. (Not that that's not uncommon, but still.) I kept expecting the book to end, only for it to continue. There were many places that Callie could have ended it, driving us crazy with suspense. Where it did end though, was perfect. It was enough of a cliffhanger to make you scream "WTF", but also didn't leave us in complete limbo; we knew that our favorites were alive, we knew that Onyx was not dead, everyone was accounted for, and we weren't left wondering about too many things. The whole thing with Everlayne is still up in the air, but we know that she is at least alive and within a safe place. We know what happened to Tal, Zovena, and Renfis. We know that Hayden is struggling, but he's alive and protected for the time being. She could have ended it so much worse, but she gave us the peace of knowing that the only uncertainty lay with our two MCs.
Bravo, Callie. Truly. I cannot wait for the 3rd and (I believe) final book in the series. I can't wait to see where she takes our favorites, and how this story ends. Everything leads to Saeris dying; but will she truly, or will someone else maybe take her place? Hayden, perhaps? π
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Haley M. Opet & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NerdFam for the chance to read and review this book!
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If you want Bridgerton with magic aspects, then this is the book for you. As of writing this review, I am about 45% of the way through this book.
You follow Evelyne, Alaric, and Cillian (so far) while they try to figure out what's going on. The beginning of the book is all about how Evelyne is debuting, and her thoughts and feelings on it.
I will say that sometimes it does get a bit confusing as to whose POV you're reading from; unfortunately the POV change isnt really indicated at all. But after a line or so, you realize who it is and can change perspectives pretty easily. I do enjoy books told through multiple POVs, so I'm excited to see the rest.
Unfortunately for me, I am finding myself dragging currently. I don't know if thats from exhaustion, reading slump, or the fact that I am very much a mood reader. As of now, I am putting a pin in the book to come back; but I am extremely grateful for the eARC and chance to read this book!
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Haley M. Opet & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NerdFam for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
If you want Bridgerton with magic aspects, then this is the book for you. As of writing this review, I am about 45% of the way through this book.
You follow Evelyne, Alaric, and Cillian (so far) while they try to figure out what's going on. The beginning of the book is all about how Evelyne is debuting, and her thoughts and feelings on it.
I will say that sometimes it does get a bit confusing as to whose POV you're reading from; unfortunately the POV change isnt really indicated at all. But after a line or so, you realize who it is and can change perspectives pretty easily. I do enjoy books told through multiple POVs, so I'm excited to see the rest.
Unfortunately for me, I am finding myself dragging currently. I don't know if thats from exhaustion, reading slump, or the fact that I am very much a mood reader. As of now, I am putting a pin in the book to come back; but I am extremely grateful for the eARC and chance to read this book!
I know what you're thinking. 3 stars?! How could you rate the throne scene 5, and the whole book 3?? On my page, I'll have a detailed breakdown of my rating system. Going into 2026, I want to be more accurate with my book ratings. However, that is not this post. Onto the review!
I adored this book. It took me a few days to complete, but that was not due to the book at all. I was tired, and in a weird slump for a bit while trying to read this. However, I did read over 200 pages in a single day once I got out of the slump!
I love the way that the author wrote these characters.
Kadeesha is such a strong FMC, but while she is strong, she does lose her self importance in the beginning of the book. Kadeesha talks about how she has tried to prove her worth to her dad that she is more suited to other roles rather than being the betrothed to Rishaud. She is so determined to live her life as her own, and has value in herself for that. But when push comes to shove, she cows to her father. I feel like this is necessary for her as a character, because otherwise she wouldn't have found her way later in the book. All the while, she shows her protectiveness of the things she cares for, and how proud she is of the things she's built. She is clearly looked upon by her peers and subjects as someone to admire and strive to be like.
Malachi is the broody MMC shadow daddy, and he has all the right to be
I know what you're thinking. 3 stars?! How could you rate the throne scene 5, and the whole book 3?? On my page, I'll have a detailed breakdown of my rating system. Going into 2026, I want to be more accurate with my book ratings. However, that is not this post. Onto the review!
I adored this book. It took me a few days to complete, but that was not due to the book at all. I was tired, and in a weird slump for a bit while trying to read this. However, I did read over 200 pages in a single day once I got out of the slump!
I love the way that the author wrote these characters.
Kadeesha is such a strong FMC, but while she is strong, she does lose her self importance in the beginning of the book. Kadeesha talks about how she has tried to prove her worth to her dad that she is more suited to other roles rather than being the betrothed to Rishaud. She is so determined to live her life as her own, and has value in herself for that. But when push comes to shove, she cows to her father. I feel like this is necessary for her as a character, because otherwise she wouldn't have found her way later in the book. All the while, she shows her protectiveness of the things she cares for, and how proud she is of the things she's built. She is clearly looked upon by her peers and subjects as someone to admire and strive to be like.
Malachi is the broody MMC shadow daddy, and he has all the right to be
So, because I was an impatient person after I finished book 1 & immediately dove into book 2, this is a combined review of the two books, leaning more towards The Night Prince.
For starters, this is the first βofficial' adult wolf shifter trope book that I've read. It was definitely an interesting introduction. I have read other romantasy books with wolves, but its different.
Now, to speak on the books themselves, wow. The Wolf King felt very predictable to me, in a way that I could guess what would happen. Not that that is a bad thing, at all. And there were definitely moments that took a twist or turn that did catch me. But it was enjoyable. I had suspected about Blake for a bit, but there was a turning point that had me switching sides like I was a light switch. From then on, it was me screaming at Aurora and anticipating everything.
There was also a few times I had to set the book down to cool off too. It was getting pretty spicy, and unfortunately I decided to pick this series up right before Thanksgiving. What a mistake on my part, I had to be composed and socialize.
But at the end of book one, I just couldn't stop myself and immediately picked up The Night Prince. And my attention was hooked entirely. The Night Prince was a lot less predictable to me, but that might not be the case for everyone.
The Night Prince kept me wanting. Every time I thought i knew what exactly was going on, there was a slight shift; my guesses were almost right. My heart kept pulling and pulling, and all I could think of was Rhysand with Feyre during ACOMF. The yearning that he has for her, while knowing she despises him. Ugh, that's like my absolute favorite.
By the end, I was blown away. There is so much that happens in The Night Prince. It keeps giving and giving, before leaving you high and dry. I cannot wait for the third book. Summer 2026 cannot come fast enough. The book is dense, without feeling like it's super long. I kept checking how many pages I had, because I didn't want the story to end.
If you are craving the tension and yearning from ACOTAR and have yet to find it, i highly suggest picking up this series. It is one of the few that has given me the exact same high.
So, because I was an impatient person after I finished book 1 & immediately dove into book 2, this is a combined review of the two books, leaning more towards The Night Prince.
For starters, this is the first βofficial' adult wolf shifter trope book that I've read. It was definitely an interesting introduction. I have read other romantasy books with wolves, but its different.
Now, to speak on the books themselves, wow. The Wolf King felt very predictable to me, in a way that I could guess what would happen. Not that that is a bad thing, at all. And there were definitely moments that took a twist or turn that did catch me. But it was enjoyable. I had suspected about Blake for a bit, but there was a turning point that had me switching sides like I was a light switch. From then on, it was me screaming at Aurora and anticipating everything.
There was also a few times I had to set the book down to cool off too. It was getting pretty spicy, and unfortunately I decided to pick this series up right before Thanksgiving. What a mistake on my part, I had to be composed and socialize.
But at the end of book one, I just couldn't stop myself and immediately picked up The Night Prince. And my attention was hooked entirely. The Night Prince was a lot less predictable to me, but that might not be the case for everyone.
The Night Prince kept me wanting. Every time I thought i knew what exactly was going on, there was a slight shift; my guesses were almost right. My heart kept pulling and pulling, and all I could think of was Rhysand with Feyre during ACOMF. The yearning that he has for her, while knowing she despises him. Ugh, that's like my absolute favorite.
By the end, I was blown away. There is so much that happens in The Night Prince. It keeps giving and giving, before leaving you high and dry. I cannot wait for the third book. Summer 2026 cannot come fast enough. The book is dense, without feeling like it's super long. I kept checking how many pages I had, because I didn't want the story to end.
If you are craving the tension and yearning from ACOTAR and have yet to find it, i highly suggest picking up this series. It is one of the few that has given me the exact same high.
Dear Cierra Reyes,
I do not accept your apology. You cannot rip my heart out, put it back, then completely halt it from beating.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Cierra Reyes for the free digital copy; thank you for the opportunity to read this book.
*Possible Spoilers for book 2 below. Read at your own risk.
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After the events in book one that broke my heart, I did not think it could get much worse. Unfortunately, I was wrong.Β
Azlyn has gone through so much, even before the sequel started. But now she battles with the darkness inside that's corrupting her further. Something everyone battles with. But the difference is, her darkness could destroy everything she holds dear.
I love love LOVE the themes in this series. I love how Azlyn isn't some pure hearted heroine; she feels like a friend, someone who listens to you while they have their own drama to deal with. All of the characters have a little darkness in them, it makes them all so relatable.
I don't know what part was my favorite; because the whole book was! None of the characters felt like they were put on the backburner. They all had their moments to shine. The world is so immersive that it just takes you with it.
One of the best parts of the book, is seeing both Liam and Valeria grow. After the devastating loss of Leah, it felt like Liam would lose himself to his darkness; he even scared Valeria at times, and she was never one to shy away from his dark side before.
And for Valeria, to see her become so confident in herself, to see her stand up for the things she believed to be right. Ugh, my heart just can't take it. Most all of the characters have had some sort of growth; though Donovan is the only one who really hasn't, but he is also older and more resigned to his fate.
The mix of gods having fallen, the seelie & unseelie; its all so perfect. This truly is so well done, and one of my highest rated books of the year; 6
Dear Cierra Reyes,
I do not accept your apology. You cannot rip my heart out, put it back, then completely halt it from beating.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Cierra Reyes for the free digital copy; thank you for the opportunity to read this book.
*Possible Spoilers for book 2 below. Read at your own risk.
ββββββββββββββ
After the events in book one that broke my heart, I did not think it could get much worse. Unfortunately, I was wrong.Β
Azlyn has gone through so much, even before the sequel started. But now she battles with the darkness inside that's corrupting her further. Something everyone battles with. But the difference is, her darkness could destroy everything she holds dear.
I love love LOVE the themes in this series. I love how Azlyn isn't some pure hearted heroine; she feels like a friend, someone who listens to you while they have their own drama to deal with. All of the characters have a little darkness in them, it makes them all so relatable.
I don't know what part was my favorite; because the whole book was! None of the characters felt like they were put on the backburner. They all had their moments to shine. The world is so immersive that it just takes you with it.
One of the best parts of the book, is seeing both Liam and Valeria grow. After the devastating loss of Leah, it felt like Liam would lose himself to his darkness; he even scared Valeria at times, and she was never one to shy away from his dark side before.
And for Valeria, to see her become so confident in herself, to see her stand up for the things she believed to be right. Ugh, my heart just can't take it. Most all of the characters have had some sort of growth; though Donovan is the only one who really hasn't, but he is also older and more resigned to his fate.
The mix of gods having fallen, the seelie & unseelie; its all so perfect. This truly is so well done, and one of my highest rated books of the year; 6
Hallowed Souls give me very similar vibes to Shadowhunters. But it has so many other elements that make it draw you in.
There is found family, mysteries to uncover, heartbreak. The FMC is Azlyn, and she is one of the most badass FMCs I've had the pleasure of reading about. She is a Captain of the East, which is a high ranking. She has subordinates below her that she takes care of. They all trust her explicilty. But she's snarky, and tough, and kindhearted.
The romance between the FMC and MMC builds throughout the whole book. I like that it's not just immeditately βboomβ and they're in love. They build a friendship, and rapport. They build trust, and make a solid foundation for the relationship to prosper. There's no mention of fated mates; while I love that trope, I like when authors take a different approach from time to time in a fantasy setting.
I cried with the characters, and I laughed with them. I giggled when there were moments that the main characters interacted, or when the side characters made snarky remarks. I got swept up with the story and the world, and I can't wait to see how the story further unfolds. There was moments I didn't see coming, things I thought would go differently, and things I expected. It was a good mix.
If you're looking for a book with Shadowhunter vibes, found family, and emotional turmoil, read this book.
Hallowed Souls give me very similar vibes to Shadowhunters. But it has so many other elements that make it draw you in.
There is found family, mysteries to uncover, heartbreak. The FMC is Azlyn, and she is one of the most badass FMCs I've had the pleasure of reading about. She is a Captain of the East, which is a high ranking. She has subordinates below her that she takes care of. They all trust her explicilty. But she's snarky, and tough, and kindhearted.
The romance between the FMC and MMC builds throughout the whole book. I like that it's not just immeditately βboomβ and they're in love. They build a friendship, and rapport. They build trust, and make a solid foundation for the relationship to prosper. There's no mention of fated mates; while I love that trope, I like when authors take a different approach from time to time in a fantasy setting.
I cried with the characters, and I laughed with them. I giggled when there were moments that the main characters interacted, or when the side characters made snarky remarks. I got swept up with the story and the world, and I can't wait to see how the story further unfolds. There was moments I didn't see coming, things I thought would go differently, and things I expected. It was a good mix.
If you're looking for a book with Shadowhunter vibes, found family, and emotional turmoil, read this book.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Dee Mannine for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
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I. ATE. THIS. BOOK. UP.
Oh my gosh, I couldn't put this down! Seda is the FMC, and its very clear that this will be a story where she has growth. She has been through some things, and honestly I relate very deeply to her.
I can't tell which of the male characters is my favorite. Each one has a different feel and I'm OBSESSED. I love the use of Ravens in this story, because I feel like so many times they are seen as an omen, only appearing when something bad happens. But they are not portrayed that way here.
And the world is so vast and interesting! I feel like I'm learning with the FMC (which, you are obvi), but I thought a few times that I knew how the plot would go, and then it didn't. I am so excited to watch this world expand! I also LOVE that she includes photos in her story.
Please be aware, that this book features some very heavy topics. Make sure to read the trigger warnings, as there are very sensitive topics.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Dee Mannine for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
I. ATE. THIS. BOOK. UP.
Oh my gosh, I couldn't put this down! Seda is the FMC, and its very clear that this will be a story where she has growth. She has been through some things, and honestly I relate very deeply to her.
I can't tell which of the male characters is my favorite. Each one has a different feel and I'm OBSESSED. I love the use of Ravens in this story, because I feel like so many times they are seen as an omen, only appearing when something bad happens. But they are not portrayed that way here.
And the world is so vast and interesting! I feel like I'm learning with the FMC (which, you are obvi), but I thought a few times that I knew how the plot would go, and then it didn't. I am so excited to watch this world expand! I also LOVE that she includes photos in her story.
Please be aware, that this book features some very heavy topics. Make sure to read the trigger warnings, as there are very sensitive topics.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Louve & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
If you're looking for a book with dragons, magic, trials, and mystery, you've found it.
Awakening of the Starborne brings to light a new world filled with fascinating tales, magic, and a beautiful world to explore.
Our FMC is a badass lethal weapon, and she doesn't need anyone or anything to protect her. She wants to become a knight, and has to learn how to be a part of a team at an academy where she is put to the test to determine if she is worthy of being a knight.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Louve & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
If you're looking for a book with dragons, magic, trials, and mystery, you've found it.
Awakening of the Starborne brings to light a new world filled with fascinating tales, magic, and a beautiful world to explore.
Our FMC is a badass lethal weapon, and she doesn't need anyone or anything to protect her. She wants to become a knight, and has to learn how to be a part of a team at an academy where she is put to the test to determine if she is worthy of being a knight.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Haley M. Opet & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NerdFam for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
If you want Bridgerton with magic aspects, then this is the book for you. As of writing this review, I am about 45% of the way through this book.
You follow Evelyne, Alaric, and Cillian (so far) while they try to figure out what's going on. The beginning of the book is all about how Evelyne is debuting, and her thoughts and feelings on it.
I will say that sometimes it does get a bit confusing as to whose POV you're reading from; unfortunately the POV change isnt really indicated at all. But after a line or so, you realize who it is and can change perspectives pretty easily. I do enjoy books told through multiple POVs, so I'm excited to see the rest.
Unfortunately for me, I am finding myself dragging currently. I don't know if thats from exhaustion, reading slump, or the fact that I am very much a mood reader. As of now, I am putting a pin in the book to come back; but I am extremely grateful for the eARC and chance to read this book!
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Haley M. Opet & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NerdFam for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
If you want Bridgerton with magic aspects, then this is the book for you. As of writing this review, I am about 45% of the way through this book.
You follow Evelyne, Alaric, and Cillian (so far) while they try to figure out what's going on. The beginning of the book is all about how Evelyne is debuting, and her thoughts and feelings on it.
I will say that sometimes it does get a bit confusing as to whose POV you're reading from; unfortunately the POV change isnt really indicated at all. But after a line or so, you realize who it is and can change perspectives pretty easily. I do enjoy books told through multiple POVs, so I'm excited to see the rest.
Unfortunately for me, I am finding myself dragging currently. I don't know if thats from exhaustion, reading slump, or the fact that I am very much a mood reader. As of now, I am putting a pin in the book to come back; but I am extremely grateful for the eARC and chance to read this book!
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to R. Dugan & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!
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This is everything. Everything you could want from a story about a healer who also has an interest in poison.
Naomi is a bright FMC, top of her class for her healing skills as well as her poison studies. She is both sides of a coin; with the power to heal, as well as the power to kill. Such a dangerous combination.
I was enthralled in the world that Dugan created, in the way the characters were written. This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, heart racing, and crying throughout the whole book. There were twists, and secrets. There's heartbreak and butterflies in your stomach.
There's no magic in this world, but in truth I didn't find myself looking for any. There's no monsters, except for the ones behind masks. I also love the way the villain in this story uses poetry. It's such a unique idea, and is executed really well.
If you are on the fence about reading this book, I hope you take the leap and read it. It is easily one of the best books I have read in 2025.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an ARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to R. Dugan & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
This is everything. Everything you could want from a story about a healer who also has an interest in poison.
Naomi is a bright FMC, top of her class for her healing skills as well as her poison studies. She is both sides of a coin; with the power to heal, as well as the power to kill. Such a dangerous combination.
I was enthralled in the world that Dugan created, in the way the characters were written. This book had me giggling, kicking my feet, heart racing, and crying throughout the whole book. There were twists, and secrets. There's heartbreak and butterflies in your stomach.
There's no magic in this world, but in truth I didn't find myself looking for any. There's no monsters, except for the ones behind masks. I also love the way the villain in this story uses poetry. It's such a unique idea, and is executed really well.
If you are on the fence about reading this book, I hope you take the leap and read it. It is easily one of the best books I have read in 2025.
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Tessonja Odette & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGally for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
Beautifully intoxicating.
I have no words for this book. Truly, I was speechless by the end of this book. This book will draw you in, lead you one way, then throw everything to the wind and let it blow away. What you're left with is speechlessness.
For this being my first Tessonja book, I have to say im truly impressed. I have heard many good things, but have never had a chance to pick up one of her books. I'm so glad I did though, because she will definitely be an auto-buy/read author for me!
If you like vampires, shadows, and mysteries you'll love this book! Personally, Dominic is one of my favorite book boyfriends. But the FMC is also very complex, and just WOW. Be warned, this is book 1 - it ends on a cliffhanger. But the end had me clawing for more! I can't wait to read book two when it releases!
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Tessonja Odette & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGally for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
Beautifully intoxicating.
I have no words for this book. Truly, I was speechless by the end of this book. This book will draw you in, lead you one way, then throw everything to the wind and let it blow away. What you're left with is speechlessness.
For this being my first Tessonja book, I have to say im truly impressed. I have heard many good things, but have never had a chance to pick up one of her books. I'm so glad I did though, because she will definitely be an auto-buy/read author for me!
If you like vampires, shadows, and mysteries you'll love this book! Personally, Dominic is one of my favorite book boyfriends. But the FMC is also very complex, and just WOW. Be warned, this is book 1 - it ends on a cliffhanger. But the end had me clawing for more! I can't wait to read book two when it releases!
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Adelle Summers & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
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Short but sweet. But I would not say that this story doesn't make an impact. It is a Sleeping Beauty Retelling, and I love the way the story is told. There is romance, there's magic, there's curses. We do not get the entire story of the realm and what happened in the past, but I feel like the author left it open enough at the end that it could definitely continue fairly easily. There's not a lot of world building, but there is at least a foundation. All in all, I feel like this book is a good quick read, and something that could be expanded upon in future books.
This could have very easily been a 5
κ§ DISCLAIMER κ§
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to Adelle Summers & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to BookSirens for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
Short but sweet. But I would not say that this story doesn't make an impact. It is a Sleeping Beauty Retelling, and I love the way the story is told. There is romance, there's magic, there's curses. We do not get the entire story of the realm and what happened in the past, but I feel like the author left it open enough at the end that it could definitely continue fairly easily. There's not a lot of world building, but there is at least a foundation. All in all, I feel like this book is a good quick read, and something that could be expanded upon in future books.
This could have very easily been a 5
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to D. L. Taylor & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!
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The Beasts We Raise is a perfect conclusion to this duology. This book is about so much more than just the fantasy element. Its about the political aspect, but also the trauma and healing that go with everything Mance went through.
TBWR follows Mancella & Silver, as they work through their new dynamics and Mance learning how to rule. The author put so much thought into these characters and their stories, and I loved the idea of the story being told from her different emotions.
There is political aspects, there's heartbreak. There's healing, and drama. I loved the world she built, and I loved that although there is romance in the story, that it feels more about learning to love yourself and your scars over another person. Learning to accept every part of you, and using that knowledge to be and do better.
The different POVs really gave substance to the characters. I only wish we had more from Livid's POV. All in all, D. L. Taylor truly captured the emotions and turmoil in this story. In the end, nothing is perfect, but it is on its way to being better. Mance has learned to heal from hiding herself, the magic is more balanced, and relations with the realms are on the mend. Its a perfect end to the story, and leaves enough that if she was to write a spinoff, it would be easy to pick up.
I received this copy for free as an eARC. I was not paid to review this book, these are my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you to D. L. Taylor & the publishing company for the free digital copy; Thank you to NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book!
βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»βΈ»
The Beasts We Raise is a perfect conclusion to this duology. This book is about so much more than just the fantasy element. Its about the political aspect, but also the trauma and healing that go with everything Mance went through.
TBWR follows Mancella & Silver, as they work through their new dynamics and Mance learning how to rule. The author put so much thought into these characters and their stories, and I loved the idea of the story being told from her different emotions.
There is political aspects, there's heartbreak. There's healing, and drama. I loved the world she built, and I loved that although there is romance in the story, that it feels more about learning to love yourself and your scars over another person. Learning to accept every part of you, and using that knowledge to be and do better.
The different POVs really gave substance to the characters. I only wish we had more from Livid's POV. All in all, D. L. Taylor truly captured the emotions and turmoil in this story. In the end, nothing is perfect, but it is on its way to being better. Mance has learned to heal from hiding herself, the magic is more balanced, and relations with the realms are on the mend. Its a perfect end to the story, and leaves enough that if she was to write a spinoff, it would be easy to pick up.
