D BOHICA's Blog
November 1, 2025
WHY THIS ISN'T COZY FANTASY (And That's the Point)
Let's be clear: Breach of Balance is NOT cozy fantasy.
I'm seeing a lot of romantasy marketed as "cozy" right now. Magical bakeries. Low-stakes adventures. Soft magic and softer consequences. That's great. But it's not this book.
If you're looking for comfort reads, this isn't it. And I need you to know that before you start.
What cozy fantasy gives you:
Found family without loss
Magic without cost
Conflict without real danger
Romance without trauma
Adventure with guaranteed happy vibes
Enemies who become friends over tea
What Breach of Balance gives you:
Found family forged through survival and loss
Magic that burns you from the inside
War with civilian casualties.
Romance built on mutual trauma and hard-won trust Adventure where people die
Enemies who stay enemies (or become something more complicated)
The violence is real:
This book opens in a gladiatorial arena. Roar'Z is an enslaved fighter forced to kill for entertainment. The combat is graphic. People die. There's blood, broken bones, and psychological trauma.
When dragons attack orc settlements, civilians burn. Children die. Entire clans are wiped out. The genocide is systematic and brutal.
This isn't violence as set dressing. It shapes who the characters become. It leaves scars that don't heal with a love interest's smile.
The magic has consequences:
Roar'Z's fire magic burns him from the inside. Black tears form when he channels too much. His skin cracks under the strain. Using his power means destroying himself incrementally.
KyKlaw's sound magic damages her vocal cords. By the final battle, she can barely speak. The cost is permanent.
The druids who intervene lose their positions. Swift-River risks everything to help, and she pays for it.
Magic in this world isn't whimsical. It's dangerous. Even to the user.
The trauma doesn't disappear:
Roar'Z spent his entire life enslaved. That conditioning doesn't vanish because he falls in love. He still:
Defaults to violence when cornered
Struggles with trust Questions whether he deserves good things Hypervigilant and controlling
KyKlaw carries the weight of her father's death and her clan's near-extinction. She's not magically healed by romance. She's learning to carry those burdens differently.
The book doesn't offer easy fixes. It offers hard-won growth.
The stakes are extinction:
This isn't "will they save the bakery?" This is "will entire civilizations survive?"
Ruby and his dragon horde are systematically destroying orc clans. The threat is genocide. The battles are desperate. People make impossible choices with no good options.
Why I wrote it this way:
I love cozy fantasy. I read it when I need comfort. But that's not the story I wanted to tell.
I wanted to write about:
People who've been broken and are learning to fight anyway
Magic that costs something real
Found family that's chosen despite pain, not because of its absence
Romance between equals who've both survived hell
Victory that's earned, not given
This book is dark. But it's not grimdark.
There's hope here. There's love. There's found family and loyalty and moments of genuine joy.
But those things matter MORE because they're hard-won. Because the characters chose connection despite trauma. Because they're building something good in a world that tried to destroy them.
Who this book is for:
You want Joe Abercrombie's violence with Sarah J. Maas's romance. You like your fantasy dark but hopeful. You want battle couples who fight as equals. You're okay with graphic content if it serves the story. You want earned happy endings, not easy ones.
Who this book is NOT for:
You need cozy vibes. You want low-stakes adventures. You avoid graphic violence or trauma. You need your magic systems soft and consequence-free. You want instant healing through love.
The honesty matters:
I'd rather lose readers upfront than disappoint them halfway through. If you pick this up expecting cozy fantasy, you'll hate it. If you pick it up knowing it's dark epic fantasy with romantic elements, you might love it.
Cozy fantasy is valid. Dark fantasy is valid. They're just different experiences. Know which one you're signing up for.
Reader question: Do you prefer cozy fantasy or dark fantasy? What makes you choose one over the other? And have you ever been surprised (good or bad) by a book's darkness level?
Genre: Dark Fantasy | Epic Romantasy | NOT Cozy Fantasy
I'm seeing a lot of romantasy marketed as "cozy" right now. Magical bakeries. Low-stakes adventures. Soft magic and softer consequences. That's great. But it's not this book.
If you're looking for comfort reads, this isn't it. And I need you to know that before you start.
What cozy fantasy gives you:
Found family without loss
Magic without cost
Conflict without real danger
Romance without trauma
Adventure with guaranteed happy vibes
Enemies who become friends over tea
What Breach of Balance gives you:
Found family forged through survival and loss
Magic that burns you from the inside
War with civilian casualties.
Romance built on mutual trauma and hard-won trust Adventure where people die
Enemies who stay enemies (or become something more complicated)
The violence is real:
This book opens in a gladiatorial arena. Roar'Z is an enslaved fighter forced to kill for entertainment. The combat is graphic. People die. There's blood, broken bones, and psychological trauma.
When dragons attack orc settlements, civilians burn. Children die. Entire clans are wiped out. The genocide is systematic and brutal.
This isn't violence as set dressing. It shapes who the characters become. It leaves scars that don't heal with a love interest's smile.
The magic has consequences:
Roar'Z's fire magic burns him from the inside. Black tears form when he channels too much. His skin cracks under the strain. Using his power means destroying himself incrementally.
KyKlaw's sound magic damages her vocal cords. By the final battle, she can barely speak. The cost is permanent.
The druids who intervene lose their positions. Swift-River risks everything to help, and she pays for it.
Magic in this world isn't whimsical. It's dangerous. Even to the user.
The trauma doesn't disappear:
Roar'Z spent his entire life enslaved. That conditioning doesn't vanish because he falls in love. He still:
Defaults to violence when cornered
Struggles with trust Questions whether he deserves good things Hypervigilant and controlling
KyKlaw carries the weight of her father's death and her clan's near-extinction. She's not magically healed by romance. She's learning to carry those burdens differently.
The book doesn't offer easy fixes. It offers hard-won growth.
The stakes are extinction:
This isn't "will they save the bakery?" This is "will entire civilizations survive?"
Ruby and his dragon horde are systematically destroying orc clans. The threat is genocide. The battles are desperate. People make impossible choices with no good options.
Why I wrote it this way:
I love cozy fantasy. I read it when I need comfort. But that's not the story I wanted to tell.
I wanted to write about:
People who've been broken and are learning to fight anyway
Magic that costs something real
Found family that's chosen despite pain, not because of its absence
Romance between equals who've both survived hell
Victory that's earned, not given
This book is dark. But it's not grimdark.
There's hope here. There's love. There's found family and loyalty and moments of genuine joy.
But those things matter MORE because they're hard-won. Because the characters chose connection despite trauma. Because they're building something good in a world that tried to destroy them.
Who this book is for:
You want Joe Abercrombie's violence with Sarah J. Maas's romance. You like your fantasy dark but hopeful. You want battle couples who fight as equals. You're okay with graphic content if it serves the story. You want earned happy endings, not easy ones.
Who this book is NOT for:
You need cozy vibes. You want low-stakes adventures. You avoid graphic violence or trauma. You need your magic systems soft and consequence-free. You want instant healing through love.
The honesty matters:
I'd rather lose readers upfront than disappoint them halfway through. If you pick this up expecting cozy fantasy, you'll hate it. If you pick it up knowing it's dark epic fantasy with romantic elements, you might love it.
Cozy fantasy is valid. Dark fantasy is valid. They're just different experiences. Know which one you're signing up for.
Reader question: Do you prefer cozy fantasy or dark fantasy? What makes you choose one over the other? And have you ever been surprised (good or bad) by a book's darkness level?
Genre: Dark Fantasy | Epic Romantasy | NOT Cozy Fantasy
October 27, 2025
SCUZNAILS: The Loyal Companion Everyone Loves
Let's talk about the character everyone falls in love with. ScuzNails wasn't supposed to be a major character. He started as a throwaway line. A mangy dog-orc gladiator in the background of the arena. Then he opened his mouth and completely stole the book.
Who is ScuzNails?
He's a dog-orc. Part canine, part orc. Speaks in third person. Obsessed with "shinies" (shiny objects he collects). Loyal to a fault. Comic relief with a heart of gold.
But here's what makes him special: ScuzNails chooses loyalty when he could choose survival.
The defining moment:
During the escape from White Rocks arena, guards are closing in. Roar'Z and ScuzNails are running through tunnels. They're almost free.
ScuzNails could save himself. He's fast. He knows the tunnels. He could disappear and survive.
Instead, he leads the guards away. Gives Roar'Z time to escape. Puts himself in danger because "ScuzNails fast. ScuzNails knows tunnels now. Will find way out later."
He survives (because ScuzNails always survives). And he shows up exactly when Roar'Z needs him most.
Why readers love him:
Comic relief: He interrupts Roar'Z and KyKlaw's intimate moment with perfect terrible timing, wagging his tail and presenting a "shiny." The tension breaks. Readers laugh. Then they love him even more.
Genuine heart: His loyalty isn't blind obedience. It's choice. He calls Roar'Z "mighty one" not because he has to, but because he wants to.
Third-person speech: "ScuzNails found the thing!" "ScuzNails will guard door now!" It's endearing and makes every line he speaks memorable.
The found family element:
ScuzNails represents what Roar'Z never had in the arena: someone who stays because they want to, not because they're forced.
In the pits, everyone was competition. Trust meant weakness. Attachment got you killed.
ScuzNails breaks that conditioning. He's loyal without agenda. He helps without expecting payment. He's just there, tail wagging, offering shinies and unconditional support.
That's the found family heart of this book. Not just the romance. Not just the dragon battles. But broken people choosing each other and building something stronger than blood.
The interruption scene:
When ScuzNails bursts into the healing chamber and interrupts Roar'Z and KyKlaw's almost-kiss, it's comedy gold. But it's also perfectly in character.
He's excited. He found a shiny. He wants to share it with "mighty one." He doesn't read the room until it's too late. Then he's mortified.
"Did ScuzNails interrupt? Oh. Oh no. ScuzNails always interrupts the important things."
Readers want to be annoyed. But they can't. Because he's just so genuinely ScuzNails.
Reader reactions I love:
"ScuzNails is my favorite character"
"Protect ScuzNails at all costs"
"If anything happens to him, I riot"
"The shiny scene made me laugh out loud"
"He's the emotional support character we all need"
Why he matters to the story:
ScuzNails shows that loyalty isn't weakness. That choosing to help others doesn't make you a victim. That found family is built through moments of showing up, even when it's dangerous.
He's the heart of the book wrapped in fur and third-person dialogue.
Who's your favorite loyal companion character in fantasy? The ones who choose to stay, who show up when it matters, who make you laugh and cry? Drop your favorites in the comments!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Found Family | Orc Fantasy
Who is ScuzNails?
He's a dog-orc. Part canine, part orc. Speaks in third person. Obsessed with "shinies" (shiny objects he collects). Loyal to a fault. Comic relief with a heart of gold.
But here's what makes him special: ScuzNails chooses loyalty when he could choose survival.
The defining moment:
During the escape from White Rocks arena, guards are closing in. Roar'Z and ScuzNails are running through tunnels. They're almost free.
ScuzNails could save himself. He's fast. He knows the tunnels. He could disappear and survive.
Instead, he leads the guards away. Gives Roar'Z time to escape. Puts himself in danger because "ScuzNails fast. ScuzNails knows tunnels now. Will find way out later."
He survives (because ScuzNails always survives). And he shows up exactly when Roar'Z needs him most.
Why readers love him:
Comic relief: He interrupts Roar'Z and KyKlaw's intimate moment with perfect terrible timing, wagging his tail and presenting a "shiny." The tension breaks. Readers laugh. Then they love him even more.
Genuine heart: His loyalty isn't blind obedience. It's choice. He calls Roar'Z "mighty one" not because he has to, but because he wants to.
Third-person speech: "ScuzNails found the thing!" "ScuzNails will guard door now!" It's endearing and makes every line he speaks memorable.
The found family element:
ScuzNails represents what Roar'Z never had in the arena: someone who stays because they want to, not because they're forced.
In the pits, everyone was competition. Trust meant weakness. Attachment got you killed.
ScuzNails breaks that conditioning. He's loyal without agenda. He helps without expecting payment. He's just there, tail wagging, offering shinies and unconditional support.
That's the found family heart of this book. Not just the romance. Not just the dragon battles. But broken people choosing each other and building something stronger than blood.
The interruption scene:
When ScuzNails bursts into the healing chamber and interrupts Roar'Z and KyKlaw's almost-kiss, it's comedy gold. But it's also perfectly in character.
He's excited. He found a shiny. He wants to share it with "mighty one." He doesn't read the room until it's too late. Then he's mortified.
"Did ScuzNails interrupt? Oh. Oh no. ScuzNails always interrupts the important things."
Readers want to be annoyed. But they can't. Because he's just so genuinely ScuzNails.
Reader reactions I love:
"ScuzNails is my favorite character"
"Protect ScuzNails at all costs"
"If anything happens to him, I riot"
"The shiny scene made me laugh out loud"
"He's the emotional support character we all need"
Why he matters to the story:
ScuzNails shows that loyalty isn't weakness. That choosing to help others doesn't make you a victim. That found family is built through moments of showing up, even when it's dangerous.
He's the heart of the book wrapped in fur and third-person dialogue.
Who's your favorite loyal companion character in fantasy? The ones who choose to stay, who show up when it matters, who make you laugh and cry? Drop your favorites in the comments!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Found Family | Orc Fantasy
October 26, 2025
BEHIND THE SCENES: Writing the Intimate Scene
Let's talk about THAT scene.
By the time Roar'Z and KyKlaw finally get their uninterrupted moment in his quarters, readers have waited over 200 pages. The tension is unbearable. They've fought dragons together, saved each other's lives, and pretended they don't feel the pull between them.
But they're also dealing with massive complications: KyKlaw's blood debt for her father's death, Roar'Z's arena conditioning that taught him attachment equals weakness, the ongoing war where survival comes first, and their own stubborn pride.
The interruption that made it better:
Earlier that same day, they almost kissed in the healing chamber. Then ScuzNails burst in with a "shiny" and completely killed the moment.
That interruption made the payoff sweeter. When they finally return to his quarters after the council meeting, after hours of pretending they weren't thinking about each other, there's this beautiful desperation. They bar the door. The world gets shut out. This moment is theirs.
Why it matters:
This isn't just spice for spice's sake. When they finally come together - Their bond magic activates (they can feel each other's emotions)
A claiming mark appears (physical proof visible to others) - Their powers resonate (fire and tide combining)
The magic doesn't create their feelings. It reflects what's already there. The bond recognizes what they've been denying for 200+ pages.
The aftermath:
The intimacy doesn't solve their problems. It complicates them beautifully. They still have to face the blood debt, deal with clan politics, and fight dragons. But now they're bonded in a way that can't be undone. The claiming marks are visible. The clans will know.
After this, they're not just allies. They're claimed. And that changes everything for the rest of the book.
What makes an intimate scene really work for you? The 200-page buildup? The interruption that makes you scream at the book? The magical consequences? I'm curious what hits hardest!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Spicy Fantasy
By the time Roar'Z and KyKlaw finally get their uninterrupted moment in his quarters, readers have waited over 200 pages. The tension is unbearable. They've fought dragons together, saved each other's lives, and pretended they don't feel the pull between them.
But they're also dealing with massive complications: KyKlaw's blood debt for her father's death, Roar'Z's arena conditioning that taught him attachment equals weakness, the ongoing war where survival comes first, and their own stubborn pride.
The interruption that made it better:
Earlier that same day, they almost kissed in the healing chamber. Then ScuzNails burst in with a "shiny" and completely killed the moment.
That interruption made the payoff sweeter. When they finally return to his quarters after the council meeting, after hours of pretending they weren't thinking about each other, there's this beautiful desperation. They bar the door. The world gets shut out. This moment is theirs.
Why it matters:
This isn't just spice for spice's sake. When they finally come together - Their bond magic activates (they can feel each other's emotions)
A claiming mark appears (physical proof visible to others) - Their powers resonate (fire and tide combining)
The magic doesn't create their feelings. It reflects what's already there. The bond recognizes what they've been denying for 200+ pages.
The aftermath:
The intimacy doesn't solve their problems. It complicates them beautifully. They still have to face the blood debt, deal with clan politics, and fight dragons. But now they're bonded in a way that can't be undone. The claiming marks are visible. The clans will know.
After this, they're not just allies. They're claimed. And that changes everything for the rest of the book.
What makes an intimate scene really work for you? The 200-page buildup? The interruption that makes you scream at the book? The magical consequences? I'm curious what hits hardest!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Spicy Fantasy
October 25, 2025
SPICE LEVEL & CONTENT WARNINGS: What You're Getting Into
Let's talk about what's actually in this book.
I believe in transparency. You deserve to know what you're signing up for before you invest time and money. So here's the honest breakdown of Breach of Balance.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3.5 out of 5)
This is NOT a fade-to-black romance. When Roar'Z and KyKlaw finally get together, it's explicit. But it's not the focus of the book.
What you'll get:
Two detailed intimate scenes (hot spring and claiming scene)
Sexual tension that builds over 100+ pages
Size difference elements (7'2" MMC, 6'4" FMC)
Mutual desire and consent
One earlier transactional scene (not with the main couple, emotionally complicated)
What you WON'T get:
Multiple sex scenes per chapter
Graphic descriptions every few pages
Romance as the primary plot driver
Reverse harem or love triangles
If you're here for constant spice, this isn't it. The romance is earned and meaningful, but the book is primarily epic fantasy with romantic elements.
Violence Level: HIGH
This is dark fantasy. The violence is graphic and has consequences.
Expect:
Arena combat (gladiatorial fights to the death)
War scenes with casualties
Dragon attacks (including acid breath, fire, civilian deaths)
Torture (not gratuitous, but present)
Body horror (magical corruption, physical transformation)
Character death (including named characters)
The violence serves the story. It's not torture porn. But if you need cozy fantasy, this will be too much.
Content Warnings (Serious Triggers):
⚠️ Slavery & Trafficking
Roar'Z is an enslaved gladiator
Children sold into combat training
NOT romanticized (it's presented as traumatic and wrong)
⚠️ Mind Control
Dragons enslaved through magical binding
Loss of agency and forced actions
Awareness while controlled (psychological horror)
⚠️ Trauma & PTSD
Arena conditioning affects Roar'Z's behavior
Hypervigilance, trust issues, violence as first response
NOT magically healed by love
⚠️ Genocide
Dragons systematically destroying orc settlements
Civilian casualties including children
War crimes and extinction-level threats
⚠️ Domestic Violence (Minor Character)
Brief scene with a noblewoman who has visible bruises
NOT involving main characters
Handled with gravity, not glamorized
⚠️ Reproductive Coercion (Background)
Mentioned in context of gladiator breeding programs
NOT detailed or glorified
Adds to world's darkness
What This Book Is NOT:
❌ Cozy fantasy with low stakes
❌ Erotica or smut-focused
❌ Torture porn or grimdark without hope
❌ Problematic "dark romance" with toxic dynamics
❌ Light, fluffy escapism
What This Book IS:
✅ Epic fantasy with romantic subplot
✅ Dark themes with hopeful ending
✅ Survival story with found family
✅ Battle couple who fight as equals
✅ Magic with real costs and consequences
✅ Morally complex with no easy answers
The Romance Dynamic:
Roar'Z and KyKlaw's relationship is built on:
Mutual respect (even when they're enemies)
Earned trust (not instant attraction)
Healthy communication (they argue, but productively)
Consent (always explicit, never coerced)
Partnership (neither dominates the other)
His protectiveness comes from trauma, not control. Her independence never wavers. They make each other stronger, not weaker.
Age Rating: This is adult fantasy. I'd recommend 18+ due to violence and sexual content. Mature 16-17 year olds who read adult fantasy might be fine, but parents should preview.
Bottom Line: If you want Fourth Wing's battle couple energy with Joe Abercrombie's violence level and Sarah J. Maas's spice (but less frequent), this might work for you.
If you need cozy vibes, frequent sex scenes, or zero trauma, skip this one.
Reader question: What content warnings do YOU need to know before starting a book? I'm here for honest conversations about what helps readers make informed choices!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Dark Fantasy | Orc Romance
I believe in transparency. You deserve to know what you're signing up for before you invest time and money. So here's the honest breakdown of Breach of Balance.
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3.5 out of 5)
This is NOT a fade-to-black romance. When Roar'Z and KyKlaw finally get together, it's explicit. But it's not the focus of the book.
What you'll get:
Two detailed intimate scenes (hot spring and claiming scene)
Sexual tension that builds over 100+ pages
Size difference elements (7'2" MMC, 6'4" FMC)
Mutual desire and consent
One earlier transactional scene (not with the main couple, emotionally complicated)
What you WON'T get:
Multiple sex scenes per chapter
Graphic descriptions every few pages
Romance as the primary plot driver
Reverse harem or love triangles
If you're here for constant spice, this isn't it. The romance is earned and meaningful, but the book is primarily epic fantasy with romantic elements.
Violence Level: HIGH
This is dark fantasy. The violence is graphic and has consequences.
Expect:
Arena combat (gladiatorial fights to the death)
War scenes with casualties
Dragon attacks (including acid breath, fire, civilian deaths)
Torture (not gratuitous, but present)
Body horror (magical corruption, physical transformation)
Character death (including named characters)
The violence serves the story. It's not torture porn. But if you need cozy fantasy, this will be too much.
Content Warnings (Serious Triggers):
⚠️ Slavery & Trafficking
Roar'Z is an enslaved gladiator
Children sold into combat training
NOT romanticized (it's presented as traumatic and wrong)
⚠️ Mind Control
Dragons enslaved through magical binding
Loss of agency and forced actions
Awareness while controlled (psychological horror)
⚠️ Trauma & PTSD
Arena conditioning affects Roar'Z's behavior
Hypervigilance, trust issues, violence as first response
NOT magically healed by love
⚠️ Genocide
Dragons systematically destroying orc settlements
Civilian casualties including children
War crimes and extinction-level threats
⚠️ Domestic Violence (Minor Character)
Brief scene with a noblewoman who has visible bruises
NOT involving main characters
Handled with gravity, not glamorized
⚠️ Reproductive Coercion (Background)
Mentioned in context of gladiator breeding programs
NOT detailed or glorified
Adds to world's darkness
What This Book Is NOT:
❌ Cozy fantasy with low stakes
❌ Erotica or smut-focused
❌ Torture porn or grimdark without hope
❌ Problematic "dark romance" with toxic dynamics
❌ Light, fluffy escapism
What This Book IS:
✅ Epic fantasy with romantic subplot
✅ Dark themes with hopeful ending
✅ Survival story with found family
✅ Battle couple who fight as equals
✅ Magic with real costs and consequences
✅ Morally complex with no easy answers
The Romance Dynamic:
Roar'Z and KyKlaw's relationship is built on:
Mutual respect (even when they're enemies)
Earned trust (not instant attraction)
Healthy communication (they argue, but productively)
Consent (always explicit, never coerced)
Partnership (neither dominates the other)
His protectiveness comes from trauma, not control. Her independence never wavers. They make each other stronger, not weaker.
Age Rating: This is adult fantasy. I'd recommend 18+ due to violence and sexual content. Mature 16-17 year olds who read adult fantasy might be fine, but parents should preview.
Bottom Line: If you want Fourth Wing's battle couple energy with Joe Abercrombie's violence level and Sarah J. Maas's spice (but less frequent), this might work for you.
If you need cozy vibes, frequent sex scenes, or zero trauma, skip this one.
Reader question: What content warnings do YOU need to know before starting a book? I'm here for honest conversations about what helps readers make informed choices!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Dark Fantasy | Orc Romance
October 24, 2025
IF YOU LIKED... TRY BREACH OF BALANCE
Trying to figure out if this book is for you?
Here's how Breach of Balance compares to popular fantasy and romantasy titles:
Fourth Wing meets From Blood and Ash
Enemies-to-lovers with serious tension
War academy/arena training vibes (brutal combat scenes)
Powerful FMC who doesn't need saving
Slow-burn that explodes into obsession
Dragons (but way darker)
Differs: My protagonists are orcs, not humans. The romance is one element, not the entire plot. And the magic system will hurt you.
If you liked Joe Abercrombie's First Law series
Morally gray characters
Violence has consequences
No clear heroes or villains
Gritty worldbuilding
Found family forged in blood
Differs: There's actual romance (and it's central to the plot). Less cynicism, more hope. The ending doesn't crush your soul.
For fans of Spartacus (the TV series)
Gladiator rising from slavery
Arena combat that's tactical, not just brutal
Political maneuvering and revenge
Found family among fighters
Graphic violence and mature themes
Differs: Fantasy setting with magic and dragons. The romance is healthy mutual respect, not toxic drama.
If you enjoyed The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
War and genocide as central themes
Magic with devastating costs
Protagonist shaped by trauma
Morally complex choices
No easy answers
Differs: Less grimdark, more hope. The romance provides emotional balance. Chosen family offers support rather than everyone betraying everyone.
Sarah J. Maas fans looking for something different
Fated mates energy (but earned, not instant)
Powerful magic users
Court/clan politics
Found family
Spicy scenes
Differs: Orc protagonists. Magic has real costs. Less fae court drama, more survival against extinction. The battles are WAY more brutal.
What makes Breach of Balance unique:
✅ Orc romance (both MCs are orcs)
✅ Magic system where power always costs something
✅ Enslaved dragons as tragic villains
✅ Size difference romance (7'2" MMC, 6'4" FMC)
✅ Gladiator-to-warlord character arc
✅ Battle couple who fight as equals
✅ Found family forged in dragonfire
Content warnings:
Graphic arena violence
War/genocide themes
Slavery and trauma (not romanticized)
Mind control
Explicit sexual content
Character death
Who this book is NOT for:
Readers wanting cozy fantasy
Those avoiding graphic violence
People who need clear good vs evil
Readers uncomfortable with orc protagonists
Anyone seeking light, fluffy romance
Who will love this:
Romantasy fans wanting darker themes
Readers tired of human-only fantasy
People who love tactical combat
Magic system nerds
Found family enthusiasts
Battle couple lovers
Reader question: What comp titles help YOU decide if a book is worth reading? Drop your favorite "if you liked X, read Y" recs!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Dark Fantasy | Dragon Fantasy
Here's how Breach of Balance compares to popular fantasy and romantasy titles:
Fourth Wing meets From Blood and Ash
Enemies-to-lovers with serious tension
War academy/arena training vibes (brutal combat scenes)
Powerful FMC who doesn't need saving
Slow-burn that explodes into obsession
Dragons (but way darker)
Differs: My protagonists are orcs, not humans. The romance is one element, not the entire plot. And the magic system will hurt you.
If you liked Joe Abercrombie's First Law series
Morally gray characters
Violence has consequences
No clear heroes or villains
Gritty worldbuilding
Found family forged in blood
Differs: There's actual romance (and it's central to the plot). Less cynicism, more hope. The ending doesn't crush your soul.
For fans of Spartacus (the TV series)
Gladiator rising from slavery
Arena combat that's tactical, not just brutal
Political maneuvering and revenge
Found family among fighters
Graphic violence and mature themes
Differs: Fantasy setting with magic and dragons. The romance is healthy mutual respect, not toxic drama.
If you enjoyed The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang
War and genocide as central themes
Magic with devastating costs
Protagonist shaped by trauma
Morally complex choices
No easy answers
Differs: Less grimdark, more hope. The romance provides emotional balance. Chosen family offers support rather than everyone betraying everyone.
Sarah J. Maas fans looking for something different
Fated mates energy (but earned, not instant)
Powerful magic users
Court/clan politics
Found family
Spicy scenes
Differs: Orc protagonists. Magic has real costs. Less fae court drama, more survival against extinction. The battles are WAY more brutal.
What makes Breach of Balance unique:
✅ Orc romance (both MCs are orcs)
✅ Magic system where power always costs something
✅ Enslaved dragons as tragic villains
✅ Size difference romance (7'2" MMC, 6'4" FMC)
✅ Gladiator-to-warlord character arc
✅ Battle couple who fight as equals
✅ Found family forged in dragonfire
Content warnings:
Graphic arena violence
War/genocide themes
Slavery and trauma (not romanticized)
Mind control
Explicit sexual content
Character death
Who this book is NOT for:
Readers wanting cozy fantasy
Those avoiding graphic violence
People who need clear good vs evil
Readers uncomfortable with orc protagonists
Anyone seeking light, fluffy romance
Who will love this:
Romantasy fans wanting darker themes
Readers tired of human-only fantasy
People who love tactical combat
Magic system nerds
Found family enthusiasts
Battle couple lovers
Reader question: What comp titles help YOU decide if a book is worth reading? Drop your favorite "if you liked X, read Y" recs!
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Dark Fantasy | Dragon Fantasy
October 23, 2025
BECULUM: The Sword That Chooses Its Wielder
Let's talk about the sword.
Beculum isn't just a weapon. It's a character. And like every other relationship in this book, it's built on mutual choice, not dominance.
How Beculum was forged:
Three brothers (Zirien, Iandel, and Streed) spend an entire night at a sacred convergence pool, working dragon materials into a blade that can kill what shouldn't be killable.
Emerald dragon scales form the edges
Dragon teeth create the spine
A crystal eye blinks with awareness
The northern lights bear witness to its creation
This isn't some legendary artifact waiting in a stone. This is a weapon crafted specifically to fight Crimson Ruby and his enslaved horde.
The bond:
When Roar'Z first grips Beculum, the sword doesn't just respond to him. It recognizes him. Fire calls to fire.
The blade awakens gradually throughout the story:
First, it's just sharp and well-balanced
Then it starts absorbing dragon energy during fights
By the climax, it's responding to Roar'Z's thoughts before he moves
The crystal eye tracks threats independently
"Less a weapon now, more a partner," Roar'Z realizes.
Why this matters:
Roar'Z spent his entire life being used as a weapon by others. Beculum is the first thing that chooses him back. The sword doesn't serve him because it's enchanted to obey. It fights beside him because they're aligned in purpose.
That's the difference between a slave and a warrior.
The tactical advantage:
When Roar'Z channels his internal fire through Beculum, the combination creates something new. His essence mixed with absorbed dragon power. Blue-gold flames that can cut through scales that should resist any blade.
But it costs him. Every channeling burns him from the inside. The sword amplifies his power, but it can't protect him from the price.
KyKlaw's perspective:
She watches the bond form with professional interest and maybe a hint of jealousy. Her conch horn is a tool. Powerful, but still just an instrument.
Beculum is alive. And it's chosen her war-companion over her.
Later, when their magics combine (his fire through the sword, her disruption through the horn), they discover something unexpected: partnership creates harmony. The weapons complement each other because their wielders do.
Reader question: What's your favorite sentient/magical weapon in fantasy? I love stories where the blade has personality!
Weapon tropes in this book:
⚔️ Sentient Sword
🔥 Fire-Bonded Weapon
🐉 Dragon-Slayer Blade
👁️ Aware/Watching
✨ Crafted by Magic (not found)
💪 Chooses Its Wielder
Beculum isn't just a weapon. It's a character. And like every other relationship in this book, it's built on mutual choice, not dominance.
How Beculum was forged:
Three brothers (Zirien, Iandel, and Streed) spend an entire night at a sacred convergence pool, working dragon materials into a blade that can kill what shouldn't be killable.
Emerald dragon scales form the edges
Dragon teeth create the spine
A crystal eye blinks with awareness
The northern lights bear witness to its creation
This isn't some legendary artifact waiting in a stone. This is a weapon crafted specifically to fight Crimson Ruby and his enslaved horde.
The bond:
When Roar'Z first grips Beculum, the sword doesn't just respond to him. It recognizes him. Fire calls to fire.
The blade awakens gradually throughout the story:
First, it's just sharp and well-balanced
Then it starts absorbing dragon energy during fights
By the climax, it's responding to Roar'Z's thoughts before he moves
The crystal eye tracks threats independently
"Less a weapon now, more a partner," Roar'Z realizes.
Why this matters:
Roar'Z spent his entire life being used as a weapon by others. Beculum is the first thing that chooses him back. The sword doesn't serve him because it's enchanted to obey. It fights beside him because they're aligned in purpose.
That's the difference between a slave and a warrior.
The tactical advantage:
When Roar'Z channels his internal fire through Beculum, the combination creates something new. His essence mixed with absorbed dragon power. Blue-gold flames that can cut through scales that should resist any blade.
But it costs him. Every channeling burns him from the inside. The sword amplifies his power, but it can't protect him from the price.
KyKlaw's perspective:
She watches the bond form with professional interest and maybe a hint of jealousy. Her conch horn is a tool. Powerful, but still just an instrument.
Beculum is alive. And it's chosen her war-companion over her.
Later, when their magics combine (his fire through the sword, her disruption through the horn), they discover something unexpected: partnership creates harmony. The weapons complement each other because their wielders do.
Reader question: What's your favorite sentient/magical weapon in fantasy? I love stories where the blade has personality!
Weapon tropes in this book:
⚔️ Sentient Sword
🔥 Fire-Bonded Weapon
🐉 Dragon-Slayer Blade
👁️ Aware/Watching
✨ Crafted by Magic (not found)
💪 Chooses Its Wielder
October 22, 2025
FOUND FAMILY (Forged in Dragonfire)
Published on October 22, 2025
The best relationships are built in battle.
Breach of Balance isn't just a romance. It's about broken people finding their pack.
The Unlikely Alliance:
Roar'Z (former gladiator slave)
KyKlaw (sea-shaman war leader)
Zirien (disgraced Grand Druid)
Swift-River (escaped dragon prisoner)
ScuzNails (dog-man who chooses loyalty over survival)
Juba (gruff arena trainer with a soft spot)
None of them trust easily. All of them have been betrayed. But when dragons threaten extinction, they forge something stronger than blood: chosen family.
ScuzNails steals every scene:
The dog-man gladiator who could run, who could hide, who SHOULD save himself... but instead leads guards away so Roar'Z can escape.
"ScuzNails fast. ScuzNails knows tunnels now. Will find way out later."
He survives. He always survives. And he shows up exactly when Roar'Z needs him most.
The Three Brothers:
Zirien, Iandel, and Streed aren't just comic relief (though Streed's dramatic titles are GOLD). They're elite druids who risk everything to forge Beculum—the dragon-slaying sword.
"Our Emperor of Impossible Situations," Streed announces before every ridiculous plan. And somehow, Zirien pulls it off.
Why this matters:
Roar'Z spent his entire life alone. Survival meant trusting no one. Attachment was weakness.
Then these idiots refuse to let him die alone. They fight beside him. Bleed with him. Forge weapons for him. Save his life repeatedly.
That's when he stops being a weapon and becomes a person.
The moment it clicks:
During the Deep Knowledge ceremony, Roar'Z's war-chiefs don't just see his victories. They experience his terror. The child forced to kill. The exact moment he chose protection over power.
That vulnerability? That's what makes warriors follow him into dragonfire. That's what transforms strangers into family.
Reader question: Who's your favorite found family in fantasy? I'm weak for characters who choose each other over blood.
Tropes in this book:
👥 Found Family
🗡️ Battle Brothers
🐕 Loyal Companion (ScuzNails)
⚔️ Earned Loyalty
💪 Unlikely Alliance
🔥 Chosen Over Blood
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Found Family Fantasy | Dragon Fantasy
The best relationships are built in battle.
Breach of Balance isn't just a romance. It's about broken people finding their pack.
The Unlikely Alliance:
Roar'Z (former gladiator slave)
KyKlaw (sea-shaman war leader)
Zirien (disgraced Grand Druid)
Swift-River (escaped dragon prisoner)
ScuzNails (dog-man who chooses loyalty over survival)
Juba (gruff arena trainer with a soft spot)
None of them trust easily. All of them have been betrayed. But when dragons threaten extinction, they forge something stronger than blood: chosen family.
ScuzNails steals every scene:
The dog-man gladiator who could run, who could hide, who SHOULD save himself... but instead leads guards away so Roar'Z can escape.
"ScuzNails fast. ScuzNails knows tunnels now. Will find way out later."
He survives. He always survives. And he shows up exactly when Roar'Z needs him most.
The Three Brothers:
Zirien, Iandel, and Streed aren't just comic relief (though Streed's dramatic titles are GOLD). They're elite druids who risk everything to forge Beculum—the dragon-slaying sword.
"Our Emperor of Impossible Situations," Streed announces before every ridiculous plan. And somehow, Zirien pulls it off.
Why this matters:
Roar'Z spent his entire life alone. Survival meant trusting no one. Attachment was weakness.
Then these idiots refuse to let him die alone. They fight beside him. Bleed with him. Forge weapons for him. Save his life repeatedly.
That's when he stops being a weapon and becomes a person.
The moment it clicks:
During the Deep Knowledge ceremony, Roar'Z's war-chiefs don't just see his victories. They experience his terror. The child forced to kill. The exact moment he chose protection over power.
That vulnerability? That's what makes warriors follow him into dragonfire. That's what transforms strangers into family.
Reader question: Who's your favorite found family in fantasy? I'm weak for characters who choose each other over blood.
Tropes in this book:
👥 Found Family
🗡️ Battle Brothers
🐕 Loyal Companion (ScuzNails)
⚔️ Earned Loyalty
💪 Unlikely Alliance
🔥 Chosen Over Blood
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Found Family Fantasy | Dragon Fantasy
October 21, 2025
WHY ORCS? (And Why They're Not What You Expect)
Let's talk about the orc question.
Every time I mention that Breach of Balance features orc protagonists, I get the same reaction: "Wait, like... green monsters?"
No. Well, yes. But also no.
Here's what my orcs are NOT:
Mindless brutes
Cannon fodder for human heroes
One-dimensional savage races
Comic relief
Here's what they ARE:
Organized into clans with distinct cultures (Kelp-Kicker are seafarers, Stone-Breaker are desert warriors, Silver Ear are master smiths)
Politically complex (clan alliances, trade agreements, territorial disputes)
Capable of sophisticated military tactics
Individuals with personalities, trauma, dreams, and agency
Why I chose orcs as protagonists:
Because fantasy keeps using them wrong. Orcs get treated like obstacles instead of people. I wanted to flip that completely.
Roar'Z isn't dangerous because he's an orc. He's dangerous because humans enslaved him and trained him to be a weapon. That's a choice the "civilized" races made, not nature.
The cultural elements:
Each clan has distinct traditions:
Kelp-Kicker uses conch horn magic and practices tide-reading
Stone-Breaker brews berserker elixirs from blue-fruit
Silver Ear bonds with metal through ear piercings that enhance hearing
These aren't savage tribes. They're nations with their own magic systems, military structures, and diplomatic protocols.
The romance angle:
Yes, this is orc romance. Roar'Z and KyKlaw are both orcs. They're 7'2" and 6'4" respectively. They have tusks. They're built like tanks.
And their chemistry is ELECTRIC.
Size difference? Check. Mutual protection? Check. Battle couple who can't keep their hands off each other? Double check.
Reader question: What's your favorite fantasy race that deserves more protagonist representation? I'm here for unconventional heroes!
Tropes in this book:
🗡️ Orc Protagonists
🌊 Distinct Clan Cultures
⚔️ Organized Warfare (not mindless hordes)
💪 Orc Romance
🔥 Subverted Fantasy Tropes
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Dragon Fantasy
Every time I mention that Breach of Balance features orc protagonists, I get the same reaction: "Wait, like... green monsters?"
No. Well, yes. But also no.
Here's what my orcs are NOT:
Mindless brutes
Cannon fodder for human heroes
One-dimensional savage races
Comic relief
Here's what they ARE:
Organized into clans with distinct cultures (Kelp-Kicker are seafarers, Stone-Breaker are desert warriors, Silver Ear are master smiths)
Politically complex (clan alliances, trade agreements, territorial disputes)
Capable of sophisticated military tactics
Individuals with personalities, trauma, dreams, and agency
Why I chose orcs as protagonists:
Because fantasy keeps using them wrong. Orcs get treated like obstacles instead of people. I wanted to flip that completely.
Roar'Z isn't dangerous because he's an orc. He's dangerous because humans enslaved him and trained him to be a weapon. That's a choice the "civilized" races made, not nature.
The cultural elements:
Each clan has distinct traditions:
Kelp-Kicker uses conch horn magic and practices tide-reading
Stone-Breaker brews berserker elixirs from blue-fruit
Silver Ear bonds with metal through ear piercings that enhance hearing
These aren't savage tribes. They're nations with their own magic systems, military structures, and diplomatic protocols.
The romance angle:
Yes, this is orc romance. Roar'Z and KyKlaw are both orcs. They're 7'2" and 6'4" respectively. They have tusks. They're built like tanks.
And their chemistry is ELECTRIC.
Size difference? Check. Mutual protection? Check. Battle couple who can't keep their hands off each other? Double check.
Reader question: What's your favorite fantasy race that deserves more protagonist representation? I'm here for unconventional heroes!
Tropes in this book:
🗡️ Orc Protagonists
🌊 Distinct Clan Cultures
⚔️ Organized Warfare (not mindless hordes)
💪 Orc Romance
🔥 Subverted Fantasy Tropes
Genre: Epic Romantasy | Orc Romance | Dragon Fantasy
October 20, 2025
THE MAGIC SYSTEM: Power Always Has a Price
In Breach of Balance, magic isn't free.
No mana bars. No convenient spell slots. Every time someone uses power, they pay for it. Sometimes with pain. Sometimes with permanent damage. Sometimes with their sanity.
Roar'Z's Fire Magic:
Burns him from the inside out
Black tears form when he channels too much
His skin literally cracks under the strain
Each use brings him closer to consuming himself entirely
The foundling house fire that got him sold to the arena? That was an accident. A scared kid who lost control. He's spent his entire life suppressing his power because using it means destruction—of his enemies AND himself.
KyKlaw's Sound Magic:
Channeled through her conch shell horn
Disrupts magic and minds with targeted frequencies
Overuse damages her vocal cords
By the final battle, she's paying in blood and lost voice
She goes from commanding armies with her voice to barely able to whisper. That's the cost of saving her people.
The Druids' Dilemma:
Observe but don't interfere (Balance Doctrine)
Intervention costs their position and power
Swift-River pays the ultimate price for helping
Zirien gets stripped of his Grand Druid title for saving orc lives. That's what happens when you break the rules, even for the right reasons.
Why consequences matter:
Magic should be a choice, not a cheat code. When Roar'Z decides to unleash his fire, it's not "I cast fireball." It's "I'm willing to burn myself alive if it means saving these people."
That's stakes. That's sacrifice. That's what makes the victories meaningful.
The Dragon Binding Magic:
The darkest magic in the book? The crystal shards that enslave the dragons. The Puppet Master found a way to override free will entirely. No resistance. No escape. Just forced obedience.
Ruby and his horde know they're enslaved. They're aware. They're screaming inside their own minds while their bodies commit genocide.
Reader question: What's your favorite magic system where power has real costs? I love stories where magic is dangerous even to the user.
Magic elements in this book:
🔥 Internal Fire Magic (self-destructive)
🌊 Sound/Disruption Magic (physical cost)
🐉 Mind Control/Binding (corruption)
🌳 Druidic Nature Magic (political cost)
⚔️ Magical Weapons (Beculum awakens)
No mana bars. No convenient spell slots. Every time someone uses power, they pay for it. Sometimes with pain. Sometimes with permanent damage. Sometimes with their sanity.
Roar'Z's Fire Magic:
Burns him from the inside out
Black tears form when he channels too much
His skin literally cracks under the strain
Each use brings him closer to consuming himself entirely
The foundling house fire that got him sold to the arena? That was an accident. A scared kid who lost control. He's spent his entire life suppressing his power because using it means destruction—of his enemies AND himself.
KyKlaw's Sound Magic:
Channeled through her conch shell horn
Disrupts magic and minds with targeted frequencies
Overuse damages her vocal cords
By the final battle, she's paying in blood and lost voice
She goes from commanding armies with her voice to barely able to whisper. That's the cost of saving her people.
The Druids' Dilemma:
Observe but don't interfere (Balance Doctrine)
Intervention costs their position and power
Swift-River pays the ultimate price for helping
Zirien gets stripped of his Grand Druid title for saving orc lives. That's what happens when you break the rules, even for the right reasons.
Why consequences matter:
Magic should be a choice, not a cheat code. When Roar'Z decides to unleash his fire, it's not "I cast fireball." It's "I'm willing to burn myself alive if it means saving these people."
That's stakes. That's sacrifice. That's what makes the victories meaningful.
The Dragon Binding Magic:
The darkest magic in the book? The crystal shards that enslave the dragons. The Puppet Master found a way to override free will entirely. No resistance. No escape. Just forced obedience.
Ruby and his horde know they're enslaved. They're aware. They're screaming inside their own minds while their bodies commit genocide.
Reader question: What's your favorite magic system where power has real costs? I love stories where magic is dangerous even to the user.
Magic elements in this book:
🔥 Internal Fire Magic (self-destructive)
🌊 Sound/Disruption Magic (physical cost)
🐉 Mind Control/Binding (corruption)
🌳 Druidic Nature Magic (political cost)
⚔️ Magical Weapons (Beculum awakens)
October 17, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Not your typical orc story
If you're tired of orcs being mindless cannon fodder, this book is for you.
Roar'Z isn't savage because he's an orc. He's dangerous because humans enslaved him and trained him to be a weapon. That distinction matters.
The world-building here is solid. Each orc clan has distinct culture, magic systems, and military tactics. Kelp-Kicker are seafaring shamans. Stone-Breaker are desert berserkers. Silver Ear are master smiths. These aren't mindless tribes. They're organized nations with their own politics and traditions.
The romance between Roar'Z and KyKlaw hits hard. Enemies to lovers done right. She calls him "gladiator meat" at their first meeting. He thinks she's an arrogant brat. Then dragons attack and forced proximity changes everything. The tension is electric, and when they finally get together, the payoff is worth it.
What I loved most? The magic system has real costs. Roar'Z's fire burns him from the inside. KyKlaw's sound magic damages her voice.
Power isn't free in this world. Every spell is a trade, and by the final battle, the characters are paying in blood.
Fair warning: this gets dark. Arena violence, dragon warfare, mind control. But it earns its darkness. The trauma isn't just set dressing. It shapes who these characters become.
If you like your fantasy brutal, your protagonists complicated, and your romance built on mutual respect between warriors, pick this up.
Roar'Z isn't savage because he's an orc. He's dangerous because humans enslaved him and trained him to be a weapon. That distinction matters.
The world-building here is solid. Each orc clan has distinct culture, magic systems, and military tactics. Kelp-Kicker are seafaring shamans. Stone-Breaker are desert berserkers. Silver Ear are master smiths. These aren't mindless tribes. They're organized nations with their own politics and traditions.
The romance between Roar'Z and KyKlaw hits hard. Enemies to lovers done right. She calls him "gladiator meat" at their first meeting. He thinks she's an arrogant brat. Then dragons attack and forced proximity changes everything. The tension is electric, and when they finally get together, the payoff is worth it.
What I loved most? The magic system has real costs. Roar'Z's fire burns him from the inside. KyKlaw's sound magic damages her voice.
Power isn't free in this world. Every spell is a trade, and by the final battle, the characters are paying in blood.
Fair warning: this gets dark. Arena violence, dragon warfare, mind control. But it earns its darkness. The trauma isn't just set dressing. It shapes who these characters become.
If you like your fantasy brutal, your protagonists complicated, and your romance built on mutual respect between warriors, pick this up.
