Recent Reads: Wretched Mage by Juliana Pinheiro

Wretched Mage by Juliana Pinheiro 
Series: Wretched Mage #1
Publication Date: May 28, 2025

 

Format: Ebook
Source: From Booktrovert

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Wretched Mage is the first book in a complete romantic fantasy duology where Beauty and the Beast meets The Witcher, featuring magical courts, dangerous curses, a forbidden mage kingdom, and a slow-burn romance. With forced proximity, forbidden love, a morally gray hero, and open-door romance, it's perfect for readers who love immersive worlds and books such as Kingdom of the Wicked, Servant of Earth and A Court of Thorns and Roses.

Jane Darling thought taking over her family’s trade and attending a merchant fair would be her greatest challenge, until she stepped off at the wrong train station and was seized by a monstrous creature. When she realised she had unknowingly trespassed into the land of the mageborn, where magic and its people live in secrecy, it was already too late.

She is sentenced to remain there for a year under the watch of the loathsome lord of the estate, Reagan, only to discover he too is bound by a sentence from the same court that seeks to hold her captive. With her family’s livelihood at risk, Jane is determined to plot her escape, but leaving their territory can be a deadly task, especially for a human.

As she relies on Reagan to learn how to keep herself safe from monsters and violent mages, Jane realises his situation is far more dire than she believed. When a forbidden romance ignites between them, Jane begins to seek answers about Reagan’s fate. But he keeps secrets even from his own staff, and with his political enemies turning their attention to her, even the most tenacious and well-protected human might not survive long enough to see the end of her sentence.

Review: 

I absolutely loved this story. As someone who loves Beauty and the Beast retellings, I really enjoyed the way this one blended familiar elements with a rich magical world, political intrigue, and a slow-burn romance.

The story follows Jane, she is trying to get to the city to help her father with his trade business while he is home and ill with her sister. On the way, Jane accidentally stumbles into a hidden magical realm and is forced to remain there for a year while the mageborn determine whether her arrival was truly an accident. During her sentence, she's bound to Reagan, a grumpy, beastly lord who is just as unhappy about the arrangement as she is. Their relationship starts off full of tension and hostility toward one another. 

Jane is stubborn, as many fantasy heroines are, but she's also curious, observant, and determined. I loved watching her attempts to escape and the way she constantly challenged Reagan. Reagan, meanwhile, is mysterious, broody, and the perfect grump for Jane to unravel. Their enemies-to-lovers dynamic felt earned, and the forced proximity and banter were handled so well that I found myself looking forward to every interaction between them. Their slowly evolving relationships was one of my favorite parts of the book.

The supporting cast was just as fun though. There was such a strong sense of found family that added warmth to an otherwise dark and brooding story. The relationships between the characters felt genuine, and their loyalty and appreciation for one another made the world feel even more alive.

What I think was the real winner here was the world-building. While Reagan's curse is an important part of the story, the true focus is the kingdom itself: its politics, its history, and the looming threat hanging over it (which the curse ties into yes, but the mystery of it all is kept for a while). The cities, the people, and the political tensions felt just as important as the main characters, creating a setting that was immersive and incredibly compelling. The magic system took me a little while to fully understand, but as more pieces fell into place, I really enjoyed the revelations and twists toward the end.

There were a few moments where the writing read a little younger than I expected, but it never took away from the glee I had while reading. Overall, this was a richly imagined fantasy with memorable characters, fantastic romantic tension, and a world I can't wait to return to. If you enjoy Beauty and the Beast retellings, slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance, and fantasy with strong political intrigue, I would definitely recommend picking this one up.

Recent Reads: Deathly Fates by Tesia Tsai

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Deathly Fates by Tesia Tsai 
Publisher: Wednesday Books
Publication Date:  April 14, 2026

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

"Rich and wholeheartedly poignant. Deathly Fates sings with profound spirit, exploring the consequences of war and the scars cut by nobility during trying times. An entrancing world that will certainly linger." —Chloe Gong, #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights

A sweeping debut inspired by the Chinese folk practice of necromancy, Deathly Fates is perfect for fans of Descendant of the Crane, The Bone Shard Daughter, and A Magic Steeped in Poison.

As a corpse-driving priestess, a holy servant paid to guide the deceased home, Kang Siying has never feared death. But when her beloved father collapses due to his declining health, Siying realizes that even she is not free from the cruel grasp of mortality. Desperate to provide her father with the medical aid he needs, Siying accepts a dangerous job that promises a generous commission, and travels to a hostile state to retrieve the corpse of a missing prince.

But the moment Siying places her reanimation talisman on the dead prince's head, rather than make the corpse obedient to Siying's commands, the talisman brings the prince back to life. Worse, he won't stay alive for long―not unless he absorbs enough qi, or life force, to keep his soul anchored to his body.

In return for a reward worth twice her original commission, Siying agrees to aid the frustratingly handsome prince in finding and purifying evil spirits for their qi. But as they journey across the countryside, encountering vengeful ghosts and enemy spies alike, they gradually uncover dark secrets about the prince's death―secrets that could endanger both Siying's father and their entire kingdom.

Review: 

This was such a beautiful fantasy with a richly atmospheric world inspired by Chinese culture that made every setting and interaction feel vivid and immersive. From the very beginning, the story balances mystery and suspense incredibly well, pulling me into Siying’s journey immediately.

Siying is a corpse-driving priestess whose job is to guide the dead home, but everything changes when she accidentally revives the corpse she’s meant to deliver...who also happens to be a prince. Instead of remaining obedient under her talisman, he comes back to life, and the two are forced into a journey across the country to collect enough life force to keep him alive.

What I really loved was Siying’s internal conflict throughout the novel. She’s driven by her desperate need to earn money to save her ailing father, but she also grows increasingly tied to the prince and his survival. Their journey becomes much more than a mission for qi - it slowly transforms into a story about purpose, responsibility, and understanding the lives of ordinary people. Watching the prince gain perspective outside of royal life was one of the most rewarding parts of the book. The novel also explores grief, love, loss, and peace in a really thoughtful way.

The romance is definitely a slow burn, but the forced-proximity dynamic was incredibly cute and developed naturally over time. I loved seeing the relationship build gradually through shared experiences and emotional vulnerability rather than instant attraction. And the grumpy-sunshine vibe is her being a grump and him trying to capture her attentions. So cute. 

Overall, this was an emotional and immersive fantasy with strong character growth, beautiful cultural elements, and a romance that felt earned by the end. Definitely recommended for readers who enjoy atmospheric fantasy adventures with mystery, emotional depth, and slow-burn romance.

Early Reader Review: The Demonic Inventions of Aurelie Blake by Mara Rutherford

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Demonic Inventions of Aurelie Blake by Mara Rutherford 

Series: The Broken Veil #1
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date:  April 14, 2026

 

Format: Hardback


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

In Wisteria, the very act of innovation is forbidden. Any creation—art, music, engineering—conjures a demon from the other side. The greater the innovation, the more dangerous the demon.

This has never stopped Aurelie from inventing—but it has made it more difficult. Her inventions are small by necessity, producing demons that she is capable of dispatching alone. But she knows she’s meant for something greater, and each day has her chafing more at the boundaries of her society.

Destrier lost his parents to demons as a child, and has devoted his life to preventing more senseless murder at the hands of demons. He was young when he joined the hunters, and each year he’s grown stronger. But it’s never enough.

When a mysterious figure offers Aurelie a job she can’t refuse—an impossible, magnificent invention—her decision to accept sets off a chain of events that will alter every aspect of their world… and sparks the connection that will change both Aurelie and Des irrevocably.

With the fierce enemies-to-lovers romance of Heartless Hunter and the high-concept worldbuilding of Arcane, The Demonic Inventions of Aurelie Blake will thrill readers looking for their new cross-genre favorite.

Review: 

I really enjoyed the central concept of this book, this idea that innovation literally summons demons is such a fresh and intriguing take on magic. It creates immediate tension and every creative and unique thing might kill you or others. 

Aurelie is a fascinating protagonist. Her restraint, keeping her inventions small enough to survive the consequences, adds a layer of quiet rebellion that I appreciated. Destrier, on the other hand, is shaped by loss and duty, and his internal conflict around Aurelie and her inventions is one of the more interesting character dynamics in the book. 

Their relationship leans heavily into the enemies-to-lovers trope, though to me it felt more driven by lust than emotional development. I wanted a bit more growth out of both of them. Given how different their worldviews are, I was honestly a bit surprised that their connection progressed as much as it did. That said, the tension between them does add to the story’s momentum.

This book really worked for me in terms of atmosphere. It has strong dark academia elements, which I always enjoy, and the dual POV structure helped keep the pacing engaging. The mysterious figure and his demon companion always kept you guessing. Although I had a sense early on of what the reveal was likely going to be, it didn’t take away from the satisfaction of that revelation in the end.

The plot itself moves at a solid pace, with plenty of dramatic moments to keep things interesting. I didn’t realize going in that this was the first in a series, so the ending left me a little disappointed in that sense, but it still felt like a worthwhile and enjoyable read overall.

All that said, I found myself wanting more depth in the worldbuilding, especially when it came to the Princes and the origins of this demon/magic system. The foundation is compelling, but parts of the history felt a bit too open-ended for my taste and I really wanted more there.

If you’re into dark academia vibes, morally complex characters, and a touch of romance mixed with fantasy, this is one to check out.

Early Reader Review: A Vow in Vengeance by Jaclyn Rodriguez

Source: From the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

A Vow in Vengeance by Jaclyn Rodriguez  

Series: Immortal Desires #1
Publisher: Slowburn
Publication Date:  January 13, 2026

 

Format: Paperback ARC


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Deadly tarot, wicked schemes, dangerous alliances . . . can you survive the Forge?

Sexy, action-packed, and brimming with magic, A Vow in Vengeance is an unputdownable romantasy debut.

Rune Ryker has nothing left to lose. Everything’s been stolen by the Immortals—her family, her home, her freedom. But she’s done playing by their rules.

Each year, humans are forced to journey into the Immortal Realms, but twenty-year-old Rune orchestrates her own selection, determined to find her family and destroy anyone who stands in her way. Rune is used to doing whatever it takes to survive, and now she must endure the Forge, a cutthroat college for the Immortal druids’ elusive tarot magic. When Rune’s magic reveals itself to be the rarest and most powerful, she must live with its only other wielder—Prince Draven. As arrogant as he is ruthlessly ambitious, he’s the last person she can trust.

Rune’s abilities also draw the eyes of the most dangerous druids in the realms. Some want to use her. More want her dead. Draven offers to train her . . . for a price. As Rune becomes ensnared in Draven’s dangerous games, she learns there are secrets at the heart of the kingdom that some will kill to protect.

And Rune and Draven’s growing attraction may be the spark to ignite a brewing war.

Tropes

Enemies to Lovers

Fake dating/ fake fated mates

Coming of rage

There’s only one bed

Review: 

This book... was... so... good. I read most of this book in 2 sittings and it was only because I had to force myself to put it down to go to bed. I learned about this book during a virtual author panel and have been thinking about it non-stop since August. I received a review copy and had to force myself not to read it immediately... because I knew that it was going to give me a book hangover and it wasn't out until now (January 2026)

I am so happy that it lived up to my expectations and I am thrilled to have read it. 

The book follows Rune, a mortal who is part of the Selection, a ceremony by the magical realms to claim mortals for their use. She is taken by the Druids and now has been transformed into an immortal being. Part of this race is their magic, a tarot card based system where you are attuned to a power/ Arcane Major and not surprisingly, Rune gets a very good one. She comes with a lot of hatred and rage for the immortals and now especially for the Prince that is always around her. 

This book packs a punch, it is action and adventure, and romance and swooning and the magic system is my new favorite thing for a book. 

Characters - 

Rune is determined, super stubborn, and consistently aggressive. She has had to pave her own way making her independent and high-strung. As she progresses through this story, she learns that she is able to find joy and love in things that she was scared to before. She seems like a force and I can only imagine the rage that will progress through this series. I am so excited for it. 

Draven, the princeling, is a World magic user and he is both feared and revered, but he is lonely and withdrawn until meeting Rune. Their banter and flirting is delicious and the lead up to their feelings is intense and so swoon-worthy. 

The side characters Ember, Wynter, Morgan, Kesper, etc were also SO well formed. Each had a distinct personality and something to add to the story. While there were a lot of them, I never found it hard to tell them apart or understand their motives. So very impressive. 

The magic system - this was the first sell. Magic based on the Tarot. Each Druid is attuned to one and each has a very interesting power. Immortals use the power for a variety of things that the book does a really good job of teaching Rune about the system, so as the reader you get that education as well. Between her classes and the practical uses of the magic in the plot, the build up here was wonderfully done. The other races - Seraphs and Elves also have magic but they operate differently. 

The world - this was such an interesting world-build. We start in the mortal realms and then head into the Druid lands of the immortal realms. I really appreciated having a map, but the author also did a fantastic job piecing it all together throughout the story. 

Overall, if you are looking to dive into a new romantasy series... this IS IT. 

Early Reader Review: An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date:  December 30, 2025, TODAY

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

A modern-day dark academia fantasy with a twist, perfect for fans of Babel and A Deadly Education.

Warren University has stood amongst the ivy elite for centuries, built on the bones―and forbidden magic―of its most prized BIPOC students…hiding the rot of a secret society that will do anything to keep their own powers burning bright. No matter who they must sacrifice along the way.

Ellory Morgan is determined to prove that she belongs at Warren University, an ivy league school whose history is deeply linked to occult rumors and dark secrets. But as she settles into her Freshman year, something about the ornate buildings and shadowy paths feels strangely…familiar. And, with every passing day, that sense of déjà vu grows increasingly sinister.

Despite all logic, despite all reason, despite all the rules of reality, Ellory knows one thing to be true: she has been here before. And if she can't convince brooding legacy student Hudson Graves to help her remember a past that seems determined to slip through her fingers as if by some insidious magic…this time, she may lose herself for good.

Review: 

An Arcane Inheritance is a great addition to the dark academia genre. I really enjoyed both Babel and A Deadly Education, and so I was very pulled in when the synopsis compared it to those books. It feels very Deadly Education around the school atmosphere, full of dark secrets, secret societies, and magic and it feels very Babel because of the social commentary around issues of privilege, power, and sacrifice as they pertain to marginalized students.

The story follows Ellory Morgan, our BIPOC female main character as she navigates being in college and the pressures of it all. Her class nemesis Hudson Graves is also a POC, but he has it all. The privilege and power that many in Ivy league schools come with that Ellory has not. She is determined to ‘beat him’ in her journey to succeed at school.

 

Ellory was a good FMC, she is determined and pushes forward toward her goals, even to her detriment. The plot overall was less about character growth and more about her solving the mystery of her school and magic there, so I felt like something was a bit missing from her development in this way.

The setting, Warren University, was its own character in this book and plot. The author is able to craft an immersive environment for readers and throughout Ellory’s investigation becomes more. There is great detail and with both the sense of grandeur but also its creepiness it contributes to the heavy mood and foreboding that Ellory is experiencing. That said, sometimes the pacing is impacted by the atmosphere and Ellory’s thoughts about her environment. While the pacing does lag at times, the plot had some fun twists and turns, and the social commentary added a lot of depth. 

Overall, the book does hold up to its comparisons, and I enjoyed it quite a bit. All that said, I felt the ending was too quickly paced and flew by and that it felt like a bit of a cop-out for what was happening (but no spoilers). Its strengths and representation outweigh this though and if you are a dark academia fan, I recommend this one. 

Recent Reads: An Ancient Witch's Guide to Modern Dating by Cecilia Edward

An Ancient Witch's Guide to Modern Dating by Cecilia Edward 
Publisher: S&S/Saga Press
Publication Date:  June 24, 2025

 

Format: Ebook
Source: Kindle Unlimited - Borrowed


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

An ancient witch explores the thrills—and perils—of online dating with hilarity and heart in a charming rom-com perfect for fans of cozy fantasy and witchy romance.

Meet Thorn Scarhart, a thirty-nine-year-old witch who’s having trouble finding love in the 17th century. Despite the local matchmaker’s efforts and Thorn’s arsenal of powerful love potions, she has yet to fall in love. After the disappearance of her sister and the loss of her mother, Thorn was too caught up in…well, life, to focus on dating. Now, she fears she may have missed her chance.

But, when one of her potion brews backfires spectacularly, Thorn is hurled 350 years into the future, landing in a bustling city where her once-isolated cottage is now a historical museum. While this unexpected leap through time may seem daunting, modern life does have its perks: indoor plumbing, electric kettles, and the world of online dating. At thirty-nine, the odds may not be perfect, but at least they’re not impossible.

With the help of the museum’s new curator—and her charming veterinarian brother—Thorn dives headfirst into the 21st-century dating scene. And as she searches for romance, she might also find herself along the way.

Review: 

This book was recommended to me by a friend and dubbed a 'cozy, cute, and funny little read'. She said it isn't too serious and it a funny one, so I immediately picked it up and actually read it right away.

This book was hilarious. Thorn is a witch in the 17th century and she is getting old and hasn't found a man. Despite her and a matchmakers attempts she is unable to secure a good one, so as a witch she turns to magic and potions to do the job for her. Then it all goes wrong and she time travels to modern times. Now in the 21st century, she has technology and online dating at her fingertips. 

This plot was so much fun, an old-world witch looking for love in a different time with lots of changes from her norms. I liked her in those awkward situations trying to figure things out for herself and sometimes failing. I thought that she was strong and determined and didn't know that things could go wrong. 

The romance was super cute, nothing spicy just lots of warm fuzzies. I liked all the characters and think that there could be more here with the sister - so maybe another book? I really needed Thorn right now - she as so much fun to read about and this book is a fun one for spooky season if you are looking for a romance on the gentler side. 

Recent Reads: Song of the Hell Witch by Taylor Hartley

Source: From the publisher for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.  

Song of the Hell Witch by Taylor Hartley 
Series: TBD
Publisher: Alcove Press
Publication Date:  September 9, 2025

 

Format: Ebook/ Paperback ARC


Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Rekindled romance spreads new wings in this atmospheric romantasy, where magic empowers women trapped inside an oppressive patriarchy.  

This striking novel is perfect for fans of the feminist ideals in When Women Were Dragons and the unique magic system in One Dark Window.

Once a vicious street rat, Prudence Merriweather has clawed her way to the top of society and now enjoys newfound power as the Duchess of Talonsbury. All she has to do to protect her fragile position is maintain the act of gentility, make her husband happy—and keep her monstrous magic a secret. 

Puck Reed, the Thief Lord of Talonsbury, once delighted in taking risks and humiliating the social elite at any cost, but now lives a quieter criminal lifestyle. With a daughter of his own to protect, Puck tries to lay low and stay safe for her benefit. His daughter, Bea, suffers from a mysterious illness bent on killing her, and Puck will stop at nothing to find a cure.

When Prudence’s magic betrays her, she has no choice but to flee—and who better to smuggle her out of the city than her childhood best friend and former sweetheart, Puck Reed? With the help of old friends and new allies, they learn about Stormlash, a safe haven miles beyond the city walls where women and their magic can flourish beyond the oppressive eye of Leora’s religious fanatics. Stormlash may also hold the key to curing Bea’s illness. The challenge? Keep her alive long enough to get there. 

With Bea’s illness claiming more of her strength, Puck and Pru must work together to reach Stormlash and, in the process, confront a growing evil threatening to devour the country they call home.

Perfect for fans of Carissa Broadbent and Hannah Whitten, this second-chance romantic fantasy features monstrous women stepping into their full power, a father who will do anything to save his daughter, and the rekindled flame of an old, enduring love.

Review: 

Just in time for spooky season, a book about witches! 

This one was pretty unique and it was a pleasure to read. Prudence is a Hell Witch, a woman with magical powers to transform into a beast. In her case it is a winged vulture-like thing. she has wings, talons, and a beak.  Hell Witches can be lamia, banshees, succubae, any many other things, and it is a change brought on by deep despair and trauma, not all women become one and not many are left. As witches they are heavily persecuted and burnt at the stake. 

This story follows Pru as a politically and religiously charged group is after her for being a Hell Witch in hiding. She joins old their friends to escape her home and gets pulled into more drama along the way - an ex who is her only hope. There is a lot of fear and oppression of women in the underlaying themes of this one.

I liked the magical dynamics in this one. They were very cool and I think that there is so much more here to dive into. I wasn't sure at first if this was the start to a series but the cliffhanger ending confirmed it, so a blessing I guess to hopefully get more of these chaotic and amazing women. That said, this ending felt very rushed and so anticlimactic in some ways. I wanted more here. and at 80% I knew it wasn't going to round out all of the things I wanted it to. 

It was a heck of a ride until then. Pru, Puck and his daughter Bea, running from creepy religious men, lots of tension between Pru and Puck and just this overall sense of there being so much more to learn about this world and the magic had me devouring it. 

If you are looking to start a new witchy series and like a religiously-charged dark fantasy/ feminist/ romance this could be for you. 

[I have not had a chance to look at the final edition, but I would have also liked a map to help with their journey].

Recent Reads: The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy by Brigitte Knightley

The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy by Brigitte Knightley 

Series: Dearly Beloathed #1
Publisher: Orbit Books
Publication Date:  July 8, 2025

 

Format: Hardback
Source: Borrowed from the Library

Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Loyalties are tested in this enemies-to-lovers romantasy set in an alternate England following an assassin and a healer forced to work together to cure a fatal disease, all while resisting the urge to kill each other—or worse, fall in love.

When Osric Mordaunt, member of the Fyren Order of assassins, falls ill, he realises he needs the expertise of a very specific healer. As fate would have it, that healer belongs to an enemy faction, the Haelan Order.

Aurienne Fairhrim and her fellow Haelan are inundated by sick children suffering from an outbreak of a long-forgotten Pox. Unable to get the funding needed to launch an immunisation programme, the Haelan Order is desperate for money – so desperate that, when Osric breaks into their headquarters to bribe Aurienne to heal him, she is forced to accept.

As Osric and Aurienne work together to solve not only his illness but the mysterious reoccurrence of the Pox, they find themselves ardently denying an attraction which only fuels the tension between them.

Review: 

I was so excited to hear that Brigitte was releasing a traditionally published book...especially one that might include some of the same elements that made her fan-fiction so addictive. I grabbed The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy from the library, and it turned out to be a really fun read, especially for spooky season.

While not a direct copy of her earlier work, this story carries over many of the tropes I loved: the “he falls first” arc, the delicious enemies-to-something tension, and plenty of forced proximity. I thoroughly enjoyed all of it.

The story follows Aurienne, a healer, and Osric, an assassin, who are reluctantly thrown together to cure a disease that’s disrupting Osric’s magic. Aurienne despises his Order and thinks he is the scum of the Earth, but her superiors force her hand when his payment could fund the research to help treatment of many sick children.

I loved the banter, the snark, and the slow burn between them, especially since I’m a sucker for the 'emo villain who hates everyone but her' dynamic. The chemistry and tension were exactly what I was hoping for.

That said, I do wish there had been a bit more world-building and explanation of how the magic and the rival Orders work. I was also curious if there were people with no magic and if they knew about those with it. Those elements felt like they could have been developed further to really enrich the setting.

Overall, though, this was a fun, laugh-out-loud romantasy with great banter and emotional pull. I’m already looking forward to the next installment. (A little sad to wait... but understand I guess).

Early Reader Review: Lightfall by Ed Crocker

Source: From the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

Lightfall by Ed Crocker  

Series: The Everlands Trilogy #1
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Publication Date:   January 14, 2025

 

Format: Paperback ARC


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

An epic fantasy of vampires, werewolves and sorcerers, Lightfall is the debut novel of Ed Crocker, for fans of Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire and Richard Swan’s The Justice of Kings.

No humans here. Just immortals: their politics, their feuds—and their long buried secrets.

For centuries, vampires freely roamed the land until the Grays came out of nowhere, wiping out half the population in a night. The survivors fled to the last vampire city of First Light, where the rules are simple. If you’re poor, you drink weak blood. If you’re nobility, you get the good stuff. And you can never, ever leave.

Palace maid Sam has had enough of these rules, and she’s definitely had enough of cleaning the bedpans of the lords who enforce them. When the son of the city’s ruler is murdered and she finds the only clue to his death, she seizes the chance to blackmail her way into a better class and better blood. She falls in with the Leeches, a group of rebel maids who rein in the worst of the Lords. Soon she’s in league with a sorcerer whose deductive skills make up for his lack of magic, a deadly werewolf assassin and a countess who knows a city’s worth of secrets.

There’s just one problem. What began as a murder investigation has uncovered a vast conspiracy by the ruling elite, and now Sam must find the truth before she becomes another victim. If she can avoid getting murdered, she might just live forever.

 Review: 

My partner and I are calling this book the nighty bitey lumber yard…more on that shortly.

Lightfall by Ed Crocker is a multi-POV epic fantasy that attempts to delve into the political machinations and secrets of an immortal society. As a comparison to Jay Kristoff’s Empire of the Vampire, this one sadly falls short for me. Where Empire is dark, edgy, and pretty violent, Lightfall is slow and overly verbose.

The story follows many characters however, I would say that Sam, a palace maid, is our MC. She stumbles upon a clue to how a young noble died and leverages her wit and ambition to navigate a web of conspiracies, rebels, and secrets throughout the city and the other nobles. All of the characters in this book are immortal – a unique take on the normal vampire book. No humans as prey. We follow vampires (nighty biteys), sorcerers, and werewolves and get a POV from at least one of each. In total, I believe that there were at least 8 different POV throughout this book.

The writing relies heavily on a journal-esq style description, which often uses the “tell” versus “show” route. I was not a huge fan of that. These entries attempt to provide world-building but come across as overly clinical and detached, making it hard to connect with the setting organically. As an example, a person walks into a room and immediately takes in the furniture but also describes it all. It was so distracting and off-putting that it makes it SO HARD to fully immerse yourself in the story.  That brings us to the lumber yard….

PREPARE FOR A RANT: This author, for some asinine reason talks about fantasy wood FAR too often, an arboreal fascination of some type. It pulls you from the story so much that I has to stop and ask is crestwood real? Is gelmwood real? [starts Googling] No, no they are not – but the characters talk about the crestwood tables and the gelmwood chairs without really telling me what that means for them. Unlike if there were real wood types used i.e. then oak would tell me something was likely rough and maple would be softer/ smoother. In the first 20 or so pages there are like 8 references to woods… and it continues throughout the book. (I tabbed it, photo in my blog post). It is too much. I was HOPING that at the end there would be some weird revelation that the wood is important… so far NOPE. [This is in a ARC of the book, I am not sure if anything changed for final publication]

Wood type tabbing in Lightfall

Anywho, the political intrigue and morally complex characters are the novel's strongest elements, with an ensemble cast including a clever but magicless sorcerer, a deadly werewolf assassin, and a countess brimming with secrets.

Overall, Lightfall is a solid debut with a fascinating plot and an intricate political backdrop. Readers with patience for slower pacing and unconventional storytelling techniques may find this an enjoyable read, though others might struggle to engage fully.