In Awakening the Dark Throne by Jessica Ann Disciacca, Genevieve Autumn navigates a perilous world of elven politics and her own hidden powers. Despite rich descriptions and intricate court dynamics, rushed romance and underdeveloped plotlines leave the story feeling disjointed. With a promising premise, the book earns 2.5 stars, leaving readers longing for more coherence.
In Genevieve Graham’s The Secret Keeper, Dot and Dash Wilson, twin sisters with contrasting passions, find themselves thrust into World War II’s turmoil. Their journey, intricately woven against Canada’s backdrop, illuminates the often-overlooked roles of female heroes. Graham’s expert storytelling evokes a myriad of emotions, leaving an indelible mark on readers’ hearts.
Book 2 of the Amber Legends series, Olena Nikitin’s Fangs and Family focuses on the complex relationship between vampire Adam and human nurse Nina, set against the backdrop of modern Poland. With tension, passion, and snarky banter, their journey of self-discovery and danger unfolds, creating a captivating urban fantasy filled with vampires, Slavic mythology, and ancient artifacts.
“Danger lurks. Ready yourself.” Book 1 of The Eldrystone series, House of the Raven by Ingrid Seymour is an epic, almost dystopian, fae fantasy in which Princess Valeria’s journey intertwines with Rífíor’s quest for revenge, their fates intertwining in unexpected ways. Despite not being as expected, you’ll find yourself engaged from start to finish.
In A Cursed Son by Day Leitao, Astra finds her dreams of love shattered by a chilling reality when she’s targeted by a disgraced fae prince. Despite initial animosity, their paths intertwine in a whirlwind of deception and desire, leading to a delicious slow-burn romance amidst political intrigue and elemental magic.
Book 1 of the Seasons of Fae series, Land of Snow and Secrets by Sonya Lawson is a gem of a book that delivers a frost-kissed realm where duty clashes with desire and love blooms amidst the icy winds of rebellion. It quietly stands apart from other beloved fantasy romances due to its seamless blend of treasured tropes with just enough fresh twists.
Shadows Within the Fire: Volume I by Megan L. Adams ensnares you in a world of dark magic and redemption, where Evren, a young fae, and Delrik, the enigmatic Hunter, navigate trust and love amidst turmoil. With alternating perspectives and a slow-burning romance, the tale promises an immersive journey through intricate family dynamics and betrayals.
The Last Day in Paris by Suzanne Kelman offers an exploration of love and sacrifice during WWII. Dual timelines follow Brigitte and Isabelle in Paris, and Esther in England, unraveling mysteries of family heritage. While some character nuances falter, Isabelle’s inspired portrayal captivates, and lingering questions that demand answers leave readers eager for the next installment.
Book 1 of the Wilderise series, The Good and the Green by Amy Yorke offers a cozy fantasy with a romantic touch and cottagecore ambiance. Set in a magical land, the story follows Alison Lennox navigating newfound property, a charming town with a vine problem, and the enigmatic Keir Ainsley. Despite a slow start, the narrative gains momentum, revealing a delightful charm reminiscent of a Gregorian historical romance novel.
The Court Under the Sea by N.M. Lovely, the first installment in The Shade Princess series, immerses readers in a vivid world of magic and fae. Despite the allure of Lovely’s descriptive writing and an engaging romantasy premise, the story’s potential is hindered by an imbalance between world-building and plot development. With a rushed relationship and underutilized fae element, the novel holds promise but requires careful refinement for a more satisfying read.
Ash Remington’s debut, Isolating Contact, orbits readers through a gripping sci-fi thriller set in 2032. With a diverse cast, each character’s unique tale intertwines seamlessly in this intragalactic conflict. Remington’s descriptive prowess and relentless pacing immerse readers deeply. A riveting introduction to The Contact series, even appealing to non-sci-fi enthusiasts.
K.L. Ziggler’s debut, Of Spies and Shadows, offers a thrilling blend of romance, fantasy, and espionage. Tove’s pursuit of a fresh start propels her into a world of intrigue and danger. Despite some predictable elements and minor loyalty inconsistencies, the captivating setting, engaging romance, and magical details make it a compelling read.
