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Keeper #1
The Hourglass Keeper
Time has never been on Azahara’s side. Exhausted from her relentless pursuit to break from the clutches of an obsessive god's curse, she has all but given up hope of freedom. Until Kaed, a half-blood Elf, saves her from certain death. They find themselves bound together by a force they could never have anticipated. As their journey unfolds, the upcoming conflict will test this newfound connection to prove it be her salvation or her downfall.
Amidst their growing bond, the realm teeters on the edge of destruction due to the volatile shift of Magic. While Kaed is bound by duty to the King and his Kingdom, Azahara struggles to maintain a delicate balance with the sands of time. Can she safeguard the lives she holds dear, or will the relentless tilting of the hourglass force her back to the beginning, resetting the cycle she has endured for the past five centuries?
Amidst their growing bond, the realm teeters on the edge of destruction due to the volatile shift of Magic. While Kaed is bound by duty to the King and his Kingdom, Azahara struggles to maintain a delicate balance with the sands of time. Can she safeguard the lives she holds dear, or will the relentless tilting of the hourglass force her back to the beginning, resetting the cycle she has endured for the past five centuries?
580 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2023
199 people are currently reading
3418 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 22, 2024
First of all I’d like to state that I read the ARC of this book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Right let’s get down to business but where do I start.. O.M.G!! Reading Azahara’s story has been full of a variety of emotions and I have absolutely loved every second of it. This book is definitely not for the faint hearted and deserves all the triggers that it has been given. I thought that I would be able to predict the chapters ahead but I was ever so wrong. I was captivated straight from the beginning, with so many twists and turns, I was forever guessing and begging for more. The love, the friendships, the evil, the emotions and definitely not forgetting the spice.. this book was extremely well written, making you feel all of those and more. I loved feeling a part of Azahara’s story. For those that have read the book… chapter 40!!!!! Do I dare say more?? And furthermore the ending the battle the deaths that followed?? I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to be published and would like to thank the incredible author M.L.Burns for this amazing read also to congratulate her. You have easily become one of my favourite authors it was truly a pleasure and an honour to have read the advanced reader copy. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Azahara and all those involved.
Right let’s get down to business but where do I start.. O.M.G!! Reading Azahara’s story has been full of a variety of emotions and I have absolutely loved every second of it. This book is definitely not for the faint hearted and deserves all the triggers that it has been given. I thought that I would be able to predict the chapters ahead but I was ever so wrong. I was captivated straight from the beginning, with so many twists and turns, I was forever guessing and begging for more. The love, the friendships, the evil, the emotions and definitely not forgetting the spice.. this book was extremely well written, making you feel all of those and more. I loved feeling a part of Azahara’s story. For those that have read the book… chapter 40!!!!! Do I dare say more?? And furthermore the ending the battle the deaths that followed?? I absolutely cannot wait for the next book to be published and would like to thank the incredible author M.L.Burns for this amazing read also to congratulate her. You have easily become one of my favourite authors it was truly a pleasure and an honour to have read the advanced reader copy. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Azahara and all those involved.
January 30, 2024
First of i read this book because my good friend gave me it and she was an ARC reader for this book, she was non stop telling me how amazing it is. I am not normally a fantasy reader i don’t normally enjoy it! BUTTT THIS BOOK! 😍😍 oh my god i love every second of it. The story! The characters! The spice!
One minute im wide eyed like oh my.. then i am welling up with tears because it is emotional! Normally i guess whats going to happen in all books i read and most the time i am spot on. But this book was different i never knew what was going to happen next. From the beginning till the very end! So many different ways this story went but i loved it all! The characters and their own storys along with azahara’s went to well together! I have applied to read book 2 as an ARC! Which i cannot wait to get straight into it! This author gave me everything i wanted and more with this book and storyline and she had certainly left me wanting more! Thank you so much for the amazing read Mel and thank you to my good friend Dee for pulling me into read this!! ❤️❤️
One minute im wide eyed like oh my.. then i am welling up with tears because it is emotional! Normally i guess whats going to happen in all books i read and most the time i am spot on. But this book was different i never knew what was going to happen next. From the beginning till the very end! So many different ways this story went but i loved it all! The characters and their own storys along with azahara’s went to well together! I have applied to read book 2 as an ARC! Which i cannot wait to get straight into it! This author gave me everything i wanted and more with this book and storyline and she had certainly left me wanting more! Thank you so much for the amazing read Mel and thank you to my good friend Dee for pulling me into read this!! ❤️❤️
August 13, 2024
This book had me in a perpetual state of anxiety in the best possible way. Literally nothing is as it seems and your questions will have questions, but not in a I’m so confused way but in a I NEED to know happens kind of a way. This is an action packed fantasy with spice. Aza is the strongest person ever, she has been cursed by Goddrick, a vile piece of shit, the worst of the worst, he is a an obsessed god that wants to own Aza and she said no. She denies him and suffers all his torture for 500 YEARS. Because SHE👏 WILL👏 NOT👏BE👏OWNED👏. My heart breaks for her and all she has had to endure. She is resilient and her strength isn’t the all up in your face kind, it’s quiet and unwavering. It’s in the way she carries herself and how she can still have compassion and empathy after all she’s been through. Then we have Aza best and really only friend Illyan they are fae and hilarious. They add some much needed comic relief when shit starts to get too heavy. Sexy ass Kaed is such a gentleman and he is fierce in his love for Aza they meet while fighting some nasty monsters and then they just never depart from each other. They are two sides of the same coin. Kaed respects and loves her unconditional. He is the definition of gentleman in the streets and freak in the sheets😈 Zhan is a bad bitch warrior. She is literally a warrior through and through from her fighting, to the way she talks and just her entire demeanor. I LOVE her. I wanna be her when I grow up. If you’ve seen walking dead and loved the bad ass with the sword on her back then you’ll absolutely love Zhan. Okay okay I’m rambling but this is an amazing book filled with many twist and turns you won’t see coming. You will cry, scream, giggle, blush, RAGE and cry some more. It’s a roller coaster of emotion and it’s a ride I would take several times over. I am pumped to start the next book😍
I need to add that while this book is a fantasy and completely fictional it still very much has aspects that are true in our day to day life- ESPECIALLY as a woman. Once you read the book you will fully understand what I mean. I love how Aza’s character is portrayed because I think most everyone can relate to her on some level, I won’t go into to much detail so I don’t spoil anything but just know that you can definitely apply some situations to real life even if it’s a fantasy book and I love that because I connected with the character so much more.
I need to add that while this book is a fantasy and completely fictional it still very much has aspects that are true in our day to day life- ESPECIALLY as a woman. Once you read the book you will fully understand what I mean. I love how Aza’s character is portrayed because I think most everyone can relate to her on some level, I won’t go into to much detail so I don’t spoil anything but just know that you can definitely apply some situations to real life even if it’s a fantasy book and I love that because I connected with the character so much more.
January 3, 2024
It's my book, clearly I think its a 5 stars... <3
October 29, 2023
ARC READER REVIEW
This was a book I could have read in one sitting, had I not had to do adult life as well. I was worried as this was my first ARC read and I wasn’t sure how to approach the “I didn’t care for your style of writing but I don’t want to leave you a bad review” email. Thankfully I have been spared that experience.
Thank you Mrs Burns for a wonderful first ARC read!!! Awesome feeling to be one of the few people on this rock that got to experience Azahara’s world before the rest of the world. I am honored to be able to come here and tell you all that, as soon as the book drops, you NEED to get it.
I am very impressed with her writing style, especially being a new author. I don’t usually like 3rd person POV because you don’t feel as bonded with the characters, but she managed to get me emotionally attached to the main characters. The world building was on point. ML paints the picture beautifully, wraps these characters around your heart strings, and lets you experience their journey, step by step.
We follow the FMC (who, by the way, is a complete badass) as she finds love, struggles with loss, protects those she loves, all the while dealing with a curse that takes away most of her free will. Azahara is the epitome of warrior woman. Her MMC is totally lovable. He’s rather old fashioned in wanting to take care of his woman and do right by his land. He’s a complete badass as well, and oooh his spice….sigh. Trust me.
I don’t want to give too much plot out, especially since this hasn’t been published. This book takes you through the array of emotions that keeps you flipping pages and waiting for more. I was reading so fast in anticipation, I had to reread paragraphs over. And then the last page…..I’ve obviously never read an unreleased book before, but it’s not quite fair to be dying for book 2 before book 1 hits the shelves.
Thank you ML for letting me in on her story in advance. This is definitely going to be a “shelf trophy” book!!!
This was a book I could have read in one sitting, had I not had to do adult life as well. I was worried as this was my first ARC read and I wasn’t sure how to approach the “I didn’t care for your style of writing but I don’t want to leave you a bad review” email. Thankfully I have been spared that experience.
Thank you Mrs Burns for a wonderful first ARC read!!! Awesome feeling to be one of the few people on this rock that got to experience Azahara’s world before the rest of the world. I am honored to be able to come here and tell you all that, as soon as the book drops, you NEED to get it.
I am very impressed with her writing style, especially being a new author. I don’t usually like 3rd person POV because you don’t feel as bonded with the characters, but she managed to get me emotionally attached to the main characters. The world building was on point. ML paints the picture beautifully, wraps these characters around your heart strings, and lets you experience their journey, step by step.
We follow the FMC (who, by the way, is a complete badass) as she finds love, struggles with loss, protects those she loves, all the while dealing with a curse that takes away most of her free will. Azahara is the epitome of warrior woman. Her MMC is totally lovable. He’s rather old fashioned in wanting to take care of his woman and do right by his land. He’s a complete badass as well, and oooh his spice….sigh. Trust me.
I don’t want to give too much plot out, especially since this hasn’t been published. This book takes you through the array of emotions that keeps you flipping pages and waiting for more. I was reading so fast in anticipation, I had to reread paragraphs over. And then the last page…..I’ve obviously never read an unreleased book before, but it’s not quite fair to be dying for book 2 before book 1 hits the shelves.
Thank you ML for letting me in on her story in advance. This is definitely going to be a “shelf trophy” book!!!
July 12, 2025
5 ⭐️ AND MORE
This book broke me but in the best kind of way. Azahara’s story is devastating and powerful … a woman cursed by an obsessive god, reliving a cycle of heartbreak and forgotten years for five centuries. Her strength, her defiance, her loneliness … it all hit so hard. The worldbuilding is rich, the emotional weight is heavy and the characters (especially Kaed - finally a sweet MMC!) are beautifully written.
This isn’t just a fantasy romance. It’s grief and survival and hope, wrapped up in magic and mythology. I cried. I loved it. I will probably cry again when I read book two. Worth it.
This book broke me but in the best kind of way. Azahara’s story is devastating and powerful … a woman cursed by an obsessive god, reliving a cycle of heartbreak and forgotten years for five centuries. Her strength, her defiance, her loneliness … it all hit so hard. The worldbuilding is rich, the emotional weight is heavy and the characters (especially Kaed - finally a sweet MMC!) are beautifully written.
This isn’t just a fantasy romance. It’s grief and survival and hope, wrapped up in magic and mythology. I cried. I loved it. I will probably cry again when I read book two. Worth it.
January 26, 2025
Cursed by a god for rejecting him and forced to be remade every year until you finally accept him, only to stubbornly refuse for 500 years. Memories wiped each year, and only the meticulously kept journals hold the truths of this long and forgotten existence. Non binary fae Prince bestie is your only companion in this lonely and stunted life. How long could you endure?
Readers, this premise is cool af. The set up for a revenge glow up is top tier. Execution could have been better, 3 stars might be a little generous considering how much this book would benefit from a hearty edit.
We’ve got the FMC who is so *beautiful* everyone wants to possess her. Shes so gorgeous that it will literally change the entire world? Every character she interacts with becomes enamored or rapey. It’s just too much, I really wish there was some other redeeming qualities about her besides her perfect meat suit. She can’t mature or develop because she’s remade each year, too much of the entire plot is built off this vapid premise. Bleh.
The writing itself feels off balance with too much focus on description that doesn’t actually build the world. The dialogue can be disjointed and clunky, I felt like that white lady meme with all the complex maths around her. The first 2/3 of the book is arduous, and the last bit a little underwhelming. I should have felt devastated but I was just waiting for the cliff hanger I had guessed already.
At one point the author describes an outfit made of silk, and another character wearing some cotton and polyester blend… y’all. They have to walk for 102 days to get the king because the world uses ravens to send messages, but there is POLYESTER BLENDS?? There is no crude oil refinery, or technology but there is plastic?!? That was the detail that almost made me quit. (They don’t actually walk that long but it fucking felt like it). My main thought is get some beta readers who don’t want to be friends with the author and let them tear into it.
That all being said, I’m definitely starting on the second book. There is great potential here, and I’m willing to move past a clunky first book and see where it goes.
Readers, this premise is cool af. The set up for a revenge glow up is top tier. Execution could have been better, 3 stars might be a little generous considering how much this book would benefit from a hearty edit.
We’ve got the FMC who is so *beautiful* everyone wants to possess her. Shes so gorgeous that it will literally change the entire world? Every character she interacts with becomes enamored or rapey. It’s just too much, I really wish there was some other redeeming qualities about her besides her perfect meat suit. She can’t mature or develop because she’s remade each year, too much of the entire plot is built off this vapid premise. Bleh.
The writing itself feels off balance with too much focus on description that doesn’t actually build the world. The dialogue can be disjointed and clunky, I felt like that white lady meme with all the complex maths around her. The first 2/3 of the book is arduous, and the last bit a little underwhelming. I should have felt devastated but I was just waiting for the cliff hanger I had guessed already.
At one point the author describes an outfit made of silk, and another character wearing some cotton and polyester blend… y’all. They have to walk for 102 days to get the king because the world uses ravens to send messages, but there is POLYESTER BLENDS?? There is no crude oil refinery, or technology but there is plastic?!? That was the detail that almost made me quit. (They don’t actually walk that long but it fucking felt like it). My main thought is get some beta readers who don’t want to be friends with the author and let them tear into it.
That all being said, I’m definitely starting on the second book. There is great potential here, and I’m willing to move past a clunky first book and see where it goes.
March 16, 2024
Wow, just wow! All fans of ACOTAR or TOG should definitely read this book! Epic fantasy, clear and concise. Emotional roller coaster, perfect plot twists. Heart wrenching, FANTASTIC! Also, the spice is spicy! Would recommend to all lovers of dark fantasy romance!
October 24, 2023
First and foremost, thank you for allowing me to be an ARC reader. This book, peaked my interest immediately with the amount of trigger warnings mentioned! I’m a dark romance reader so this book was great for me to dive into. Starting with a key point which may make or break this book for readers is the fact it’s written in third person - limited. I admit myself, this style of writing is one I’m not familiar with but I didn’t want to judge the authors work based strictly on that, I would advise you to take the warnings into consideration before picking it up. Azahara’s a mystery girl for sure and I love how unique she is compared to other main female characters. Azahara is BADASS! As you read on she just has that personality that keeps on fighting through so much pain and heartache. Kaed, this man, you will love everything about him, unbelievable. You can tell that this man is fictional, because pure perfection! There’s a bit of spice too, especially for open minded people and breaks it away instantly from the rest of most fantasy authors works. The rest of the characters you’ll meet are all so likeable and you get attached to each one individually, they each have such unique personalities and the LGBTQAI+ representation is great for all readers! Usually fantasy romance includes straight main characters so this was a nice change from my traditional reads. Overall, I would definitely recommend this book to a friend, and although the writing styles not my thing, I still needed book two, like yesterday!
October 27, 2023
ARC Read
I don't even know where to begin with this book. So, I will just start off with how much the author made me fall for these characters.
Azahara was such a strong kick ass character and I genuinely was tearing up throughout majority of the book from all that she had to deal with (so help me, since this is the first book in a series 😭).
Kaed, who I like to call Kaddy, constantly had my feet kicking so much from being essentially a walking green flag, and it had me melting when the man got down and dirty.
The banter between the FMC and MMC was just *chefs kiss*.
I also loved their companions Illyan and Zhal. They held my heart, and I needed more of them. Can't wait to see what else in store for these characters.
I felt so intrigued by the idea of this book (including the long list of tws) and M.L. Burns did not disappoint. Even when some scenes I felt were rushed (understandable she is a thicc boi), it didn't take away from the scenes that held the real impact. Please ensure you have tissues on hand because it will make you sob.
The world building, magic system, character development, and relationships were fantastic.
I am really looking forward to what book 2 will have in store for these characters.
I don't even know where to begin with this book. So, I will just start off with how much the author made me fall for these characters.
Azahara was such a strong kick ass character and I genuinely was tearing up throughout majority of the book from all that she had to deal with (so help me, since this is the first book in a series 😭).
Kaed, who I like to call Kaddy, constantly had my feet kicking so much from being essentially a walking green flag, and it had me melting when the man got down and dirty.
The banter between the FMC and MMC was just *chefs kiss*.
I also loved their companions Illyan and Zhal. They held my heart, and I needed more of them. Can't wait to see what else in store for these characters.
I felt so intrigued by the idea of this book (including the long list of tws) and M.L. Burns did not disappoint. Even when some scenes I felt were rushed (understandable she is a thicc boi), it didn't take away from the scenes that held the real impact. Please ensure you have tissues on hand because it will make you sob.
The world building, magic system, character development, and relationships were fantastic.
I am really looking forward to what book 2 will have in store for these characters.
March 25, 2024
The Hourglass Keeper" by M.L. Burns intricately weaves a tale of struggle against time and destiny, immersing readers in a world where magic, duty, and personal freedom collide. Azahara, burdened by the weight of an ancient curse, finds a glimmer of hope in Kaed, a half-blood Elf who becomes an unexpected ally. Their bond becomes the focal point of the narrative, tested by the impending conflict that threatens their realm.
Burns masterfully explores themes of fate, duty, and sacrifice against the backdrop of a world in turmoil. As Azahara and Kaed navigate their intertwined destinies, readers are drawn into a richly imagined world filled with danger and intrigue. The volatile shift of Magic adds an additional layer of tension, mirroring the internal struggles faced by the characters.
Azahara's journey to break free from the curse that has bound her for centuries is both poignant and gripping. Her determination to protect those she loves against the relentless passage of time adds depth to her character, making her a compelling protagonist. Kaed's loyalty to his kingdom and his burgeoning connection with Azahara create a captivating dynamic that drives the narrative forward.
Throughout the story, Burns skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. The intricate world-building and vivid descriptions immerse readers in a fantastical realm where anything is possible. You will laugh, cry and be overtaken by intense emotions.
In "The Hourglass Keeper," M.L. Burns delivers a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment. With its richly drawn characters and intricately plotted storyline, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
With that out of the way, let's dive into the real fucking deal. This book completely shattered me but in the most incredible way. It broke me down to my fucking core. Never before has a story evoked such a whirlwind of emotions within me all at once. It felt like an overwhelming flood of feelings that I attempted to suppress, yet they surged out of me uncontrollably, like water bursting from a dam. Aza's story is filled with an abundance of pain, emotion, and heartbreak, which caused me to empathize with her deeply and become utterly engrossed in her journey. I was left with a piece of my heart missing and now I am longing and patiently waiting for book two.
Burns masterfully explores themes of fate, duty, and sacrifice against the backdrop of a world in turmoil. As Azahara and Kaed navigate their intertwined destinies, readers are drawn into a richly imagined world filled with danger and intrigue. The volatile shift of Magic adds an additional layer of tension, mirroring the internal struggles faced by the characters.
Azahara's journey to break free from the curse that has bound her for centuries is both poignant and gripping. Her determination to protect those she loves against the relentless passage of time adds depth to her character, making her a compelling protagonist. Kaed's loyalty to his kingdom and his burgeoning connection with Azahara create a captivating dynamic that drives the narrative forward.
Throughout the story, Burns skillfully builds suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with unexpected twists and turns. The intricate world-building and vivid descriptions immerse readers in a fantastical realm where anything is possible. You will laugh, cry and be overtaken by intense emotions.
In "The Hourglass Keeper," M.L. Burns delivers a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment. With its richly drawn characters and intricately plotted storyline, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.
With that out of the way, let's dive into the real fucking deal. This book completely shattered me but in the most incredible way. It broke me down to my fucking core. Never before has a story evoked such a whirlwind of emotions within me all at once. It felt like an overwhelming flood of feelings that I attempted to suppress, yet they surged out of me uncontrollably, like water bursting from a dam. Aza's story is filled with an abundance of pain, emotion, and heartbreak, which caused me to empathize with her deeply and become utterly engrossed in her journey. I was left with a piece of my heart missing and now I am longing and patiently waiting for book two.
December 16, 2023
Wow… just wow.
This story.. this beautiful, adventurous, intense, emotional journey of a story is an A++ read.
The character work this author did is incredible, the relationships intricate but not overly so. Just enough to lend depth and relatability. We have some slow burn, fated mates, found family, possessive touch her and die vibes, fantasy world building, feminine rage, all at play in this story and so so much more.
There are trigger warnings.. as always if the author takes the time to write them.. you should absolutely read them.
This book checks all the boxes for me….
Banter : excellent
World building: enough without being drown in it.
Plot: keeps you guessing
Suspense: just when you think you know… YOU DONT!
Transitions : smooth and flowed really well
Storytelling: beautiful- I was hooked at page 3 and I wanted nothing more than to never stop reading..
If you like fantasy mixed with some feminine rage… I can not recommend this book enough!! 15/10 -
I received this book as an arc.
This story.. this beautiful, adventurous, intense, emotional journey of a story is an A++ read.
The character work this author did is incredible, the relationships intricate but not overly so. Just enough to lend depth and relatability. We have some slow burn, fated mates, found family, possessive touch her and die vibes, fantasy world building, feminine rage, all at play in this story and so so much more.
There are trigger warnings.. as always if the author takes the time to write them.. you should absolutely read them.
This book checks all the boxes for me….
Banter : excellent
World building: enough without being drown in it.
Plot: keeps you guessing
Suspense: just when you think you know… YOU DONT!
Transitions : smooth and flowed really well
Storytelling: beautiful- I was hooked at page 3 and I wanted nothing more than to never stop reading..
If you like fantasy mixed with some feminine rage… I can not recommend this book enough!! 15/10 -
I received this book as an arc.
May 2, 2024
This was my second time reading this book. Well.. I listened to the audiobook this time around because it just released not too long ago. You would honestly think it was my first time immersing myself in this universe & putting myself through this anxiety the way I was sick crying & throwing up listening to this book. Yall this audiobook was SENSATIONAL. Every thing I read in the book previously , the audible hit me exactly the same. I genuinely can’t get enough of this book , yet alone this series. I will recommend this damn book a thousand times over.
March 4, 2024
DNf @30%
This wasn't for me. I tried. I really wanted to like it.
This book would benefit from a round of extensive editing and proofreading.
Descriptions were weirdly worded, or didn't make sense. The dialogue was awkward and didn't flow. Sometimes it was confusing as to who was actually speaking.
I didn't feel any emotions that I probably should and didn't care for any characters.
This wasn't for me. I tried. I really wanted to like it.
This book would benefit from a round of extensive editing and proofreading.
Descriptions were weirdly worded, or didn't make sense. The dialogue was awkward and didn't flow. Sometimes it was confusing as to who was actually speaking.
I didn't feel any emotions that I probably should and didn't care for any characters.
January 2, 2024
THE HOURGLASS KEEPER by M.L. Burns
🗡️ 🖤Tropes🖤🗡️
🖤 Feminine Rage
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Quests
🖤 Dark Themes
🖤 Mental Health Rep
🖤 LGBTQAI+ Rep
🖤 Secrets
🖤 Smut
🖤 Trigger Warnings
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
*spoilers: minor details and jump scare aware only?
I don’t even know where to begin. Right off the bat you are hit with your first jump scare in chapter ten then oh there’s chapter 14! As soon as you think you know what I going to happen, guess what!? You don’t !
This book has everything, amazing characters, human to fae alike and a sadistic God whom you want to see only the worst of things happen to. I am so in love with Kaed and Aza, I feel like Illy is my soul friend, no soul sibling (they are simply amazing) and Zahl. My girl Zahl. Aza is quite literally the “fairest in all the land” so to speak. So much so that a God covets her very existence and wants to make her his by almost any means possible. But this is no fairy tale. When she refuses, he curses her to live eternally, with the exception of her memories. Every year her hourglass turns and she is forced to start over. Her memories and sometimes other things wiped clean. If she dies, he brings her back. Memories of the event intact until the end of the year.
Aza’s world is exceptionally built. It never felt dry, left just enough to the imagination, but impeccably magical. I haven’t felt connected to a world or its characters so much. You are right there emotionally invested the entire time. M.L.’s attention to her characters and world are done in such a way that by the end you can hardly believe you are done. She leaves you wanting and NEEDING more of your new bookish family.
That brings me to the end. My heart has never been ripped out of my chest, stuffed back in, and ripped out all over again, only to say, “that’s it!?”! I love to love and hate M.L., she’s given me so many trust issues, but I LOVE IT, I LIVE FOR IT & INEED IT!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥
*spoilers: minor details and jump scare aware only?
I don’t even know where to begin. Right off the bat you are hit with your first jump scare in chapter ten then oh there’s chapter 14! As soon as you think you know what I going to happen, guess what!? You don’t !
This book has everything, amazing characters, human to fae alike and a sadistic God whom you want to see only the worst of things happen to. I am so in love with Kaed and Aza, I feel like Illy is my soul friend, no soul sibling (they are simply amazing) and Zahl. My girl Zahl. Aza is quite literally the “fairest in all the land” so to speak. So much so that a God covets her very existence and wants to make her his by almost any means possible. But this is no fairy tale. When she refuses, he curses her to live eternally, with the exception of her memories. Every year her hourglass turns and she is forced to start over. Her memories and sometimes other things wiped clean. If she dies, he brings her back. Memories of the event intact until the end of the year.
Aza’s world is exceptionally built. It never felt dry, left just enough to the imagination, but impeccably magical. I haven’t felt connected to a world or its characters so much. You are right there emotionally invested the entire time. M.L.’s attention to her characters and world are done in such a way that by the end you can hardly believe you are done. She leaves you wanting and NEEDING more of your new bookish family.
That brings me to the end. My heart has never been ripped out of my chest, stuffed back in, and ripped out all over again, only to say, “that’s it!?”! I love to love and hate M.L., she’s given me so many trust issues, but I LOVE IT, I LIVE FOR IT & INEED IT!
November 28, 2023
My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice level 🌶️🌶️
Azahara had been fighting off a gods advances and curse for over 500 years. She’s had to keep all her important moments to herself and only a single trusted friend. So when she meets Kaed she is slow to trust him with her secret but their connection is instant. Through all their battles and struggles they learn to rely on and love each other endlessly. With the help of a few other trusted loved ones, they are up against a great force of evil hell bent on changing the balance of magic within the realm.
Highly recommend reading this book as it has the potential to be an incredible, long epic story. The action is packed in this book. The spice is there but not too much to take away from the plot or characters stories. Each main character is well rounded and you really connect with. And the characters you are meant to hate? Well you hate them with a burning passion and fierce cry. This was a true rollercoaster, incredible highs and deep lows. This book will bring about all the emotions you want and need out of a fantasy romance series. It was hard to believe this is a debut novel as it was complex and beautifully written. I can’t wait to read the next book and the rest of the series! Azahara is so bad ass, you’ll want more of her just like I do! Also, there is great LGBTQ+ representation in this book as well as some mental health rep as well. Please check trigger before reading but if you can handle it, it’s well worth it!!
* ARC reader review *
Spice level 🌶️🌶️
Azahara had been fighting off a gods advances and curse for over 500 years. She’s had to keep all her important moments to herself and only a single trusted friend. So when she meets Kaed she is slow to trust him with her secret but their connection is instant. Through all their battles and struggles they learn to rely on and love each other endlessly. With the help of a few other trusted loved ones, they are up against a great force of evil hell bent on changing the balance of magic within the realm.
Highly recommend reading this book as it has the potential to be an incredible, long epic story. The action is packed in this book. The spice is there but not too much to take away from the plot or characters stories. Each main character is well rounded and you really connect with. And the characters you are meant to hate? Well you hate them with a burning passion and fierce cry. This was a true rollercoaster, incredible highs and deep lows. This book will bring about all the emotions you want and need out of a fantasy romance series. It was hard to believe this is a debut novel as it was complex and beautifully written. I can’t wait to read the next book and the rest of the series! Azahara is so bad ass, you’ll want more of her just like I do! Also, there is great LGBTQ+ representation in this book as well as some mental health rep as well. Please check trigger before reading but if you can handle it, it’s well worth it!!
* ARC reader review *
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2023
(Arc Read)
firstly can we talk about the dedication🤭🤭 i love!!
the story follows Azahara, a human in a fantasy world home to elves, fae and all manner of creatures, where she is in fact the 500+ year old, while the love interest is a mere 200 odd😂
she is cursed with immortality by a God, Goddrick, who wants her, to live out her never ending life forgetting each year and only remembering from her own journal entries, in the God’s hope that she would one day want him back. each time she dies, Death waits for her with open arms, only for Goddrick to bring her back to life
one day as she is writing she is attacked and fights off her attackers and escapes with a half blooded Elf, Kaed, who, for some reason, she trusts and begins to develop feelings for
they ride to her home, and spend time together, getting to know each other, where the story introduces Azahara’s best friend Illyan, a non binary Fae.
One day intruders come for revenge after Kaed killed one of their mates
rather than kill him, they kill her, and once more she is face to face with Death, until Goddrick brings her back before demanding she accept him, earning yet again another refusal
This is when Zhal is introduced, a warrior half(?) giant, who becomes important later in the story (i won’t spoil it!)
this book is spicy, to the point i had to put my ipad down and kick my feet giggling! let’s just say i fell hard for the characters
The Hourglass Keeper covers serious topics including child loss, SA, imprisonment and torture, and death, so please read trigger warnings before you read it! Although I will say it covered many of these topics with the nature of healing from them! The author writes about the hardships of life itself while keeping them apart of Azahara’s story!
Having messaged Melissa (the author) throughout the whole experience of reading the book, I’ve been so lucky to experience not only what my mind imagines, but what she has seen while writing, and i truly commend her for such an amazing and heartfelt story!🤍
I cannot wait for book 2 and the rest of the series!
firstly can we talk about the dedication🤭🤭 i love!!
the story follows Azahara, a human in a fantasy world home to elves, fae and all manner of creatures, where she is in fact the 500+ year old, while the love interest is a mere 200 odd😂
she is cursed with immortality by a God, Goddrick, who wants her, to live out her never ending life forgetting each year and only remembering from her own journal entries, in the God’s hope that she would one day want him back. each time she dies, Death waits for her with open arms, only for Goddrick to bring her back to life
one day as she is writing she is attacked and fights off her attackers and escapes with a half blooded Elf, Kaed, who, for some reason, she trusts and begins to develop feelings for
they ride to her home, and spend time together, getting to know each other, where the story introduces Azahara’s best friend Illyan, a non binary Fae.
One day intruders come for revenge after Kaed killed one of their mates
rather than kill him, they kill her, and once more she is face to face with Death, until Goddrick brings her back before demanding she accept him, earning yet again another refusal
This is when Zhal is introduced, a warrior half(?) giant, who becomes important later in the story (i won’t spoil it!)
this book is spicy, to the point i had to put my ipad down and kick my feet giggling! let’s just say i fell hard for the characters
The Hourglass Keeper covers serious topics including child loss, SA, imprisonment and torture, and death, so please read trigger warnings before you read it! Although I will say it covered many of these topics with the nature of healing from them! The author writes about the hardships of life itself while keeping them apart of Azahara’s story!
Having messaged Melissa (the author) throughout the whole experience of reading the book, I’ve been so lucky to experience not only what my mind imagines, but what she has seen while writing, and i truly commend her for such an amazing and heartfelt story!🤍
I cannot wait for book 2 and the rest of the series!
October 26, 2023
Let's start with the dedication - so so beautiful!
I'll get the negative out second , if I can call it that. I personally struggle reading 3rd person, so I wasn't able to immerse myself as much as I'd have liked, however, that is the ONLY thing I can say about this book that could be considered negative.
The story, the characters, the world building, the spice ... oh my goodness.
I was absolutely hooked by the end if chapter four. (I'm not kidding, I gobbled this in less than 24hrs)
This had me laughing, crying, blushing, raging, and every other emotion on the spectrum, which shows real talent in the author to be able to create that experience.
Every time I thought I knew what would happen, I was so so wrong, in the best way possible!
Azahara, she is a force to be reckoned with and I saw a lot of myself in her. Truly amazing and admirable FMC.
Kaed, you will live rent free in my head for a very, very long time. (Chefs kiss) Absolute purrrrr-fection.
The trigger warnings are there for a reason, please read them before going into this. There are some intense moments in this book.
I am shaking waiting for number 2 already.
Do yourself a favour, run, don't walk to get this book.
(I have received this as an ARC, all thoughts an opinions are my own)
I'll get the negative out second , if I can call it that. I personally struggle reading 3rd person, so I wasn't able to immerse myself as much as I'd have liked, however, that is the ONLY thing I can say about this book that could be considered negative.
The story, the characters, the world building, the spice ... oh my goodness.
I was absolutely hooked by the end if chapter four. (I'm not kidding, I gobbled this in less than 24hrs)
This had me laughing, crying, blushing, raging, and every other emotion on the spectrum, which shows real talent in the author to be able to create that experience.
Every time I thought I knew what would happen, I was so so wrong, in the best way possible!
Azahara, she is a force to be reckoned with and I saw a lot of myself in her. Truly amazing and admirable FMC.
Kaed, you will live rent free in my head for a very, very long time. (Chefs kiss) Absolute purrrrr-fection.
The trigger warnings are there for a reason, please read them before going into this. There are some intense moments in this book.
I am shaking waiting for number 2 already.
Do yourself a favour, run, don't walk to get this book.
(I have received this as an ARC, all thoughts an opinions are my own)
January 17, 2025
⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩
WHAT A FUCKING BOOK. A MASTERPIECE OF A NOVEL.
Alright Liv, chill out. Stop scaring off potential readers. This book.. I was scared. To me it was a BIG SCARY FANTASY SERIES. Baby I can reassure you it is NOT. It’s on the darker side, it’s not a light fluffy easygoing romantasy, and I’m reliably informed book 2 is darker so trigger warning checks are important. But this book is NOT overwhelmingly dark and depraved, and definitely not unreadable by any stretch of the imagination.
This had angst, it had grit, it had smut (and it was goOoOoD!), it had gods and they are assholes, and it had heroes that are antiheroes and easy to digest lore and all the twists and turns you could want.
Not to mention, if you fancy discussing this book at length, I personally DM’d the author, Mel, on her Instagram and it was a blast to have the author support me through this amazingly tumultuous time!
I’ve got a TBR as long as my arm (556 books on it as I weite this review) and only this book was included on my TBR list, but when I tell you I’m rushing straight to read The Dragon’s Keeper? You bet yo fine ass I am. I am ready to dive into the second book, thank you for writing this series Mel I’m having a blast <3
WHAT A FUCKING BOOK. A MASTERPIECE OF A NOVEL.
Alright Liv, chill out. Stop scaring off potential readers. This book.. I was scared. To me it was a BIG SCARY FANTASY SERIES. Baby I can reassure you it is NOT. It’s on the darker side, it’s not a light fluffy easygoing romantasy, and I’m reliably informed book 2 is darker so trigger warning checks are important. But this book is NOT overwhelmingly dark and depraved, and definitely not unreadable by any stretch of the imagination.
This had angst, it had grit, it had smut (and it was goOoOoD!), it had gods and they are assholes, and it had heroes that are antiheroes and easy to digest lore and all the twists and turns you could want.
Not to mention, if you fancy discussing this book at length, I personally DM’d the author, Mel, on her Instagram and it was a blast to have the author support me through this amazingly tumultuous time!
I’ve got a TBR as long as my arm (556 books on it as I weite this review) and only this book was included on my TBR list, but when I tell you I’m rushing straight to read The Dragon’s Keeper? You bet yo fine ass I am. I am ready to dive into the second book, thank you for writing this series Mel I’m having a blast <3
December 8, 2023
This book was a WILD RIDE!! If you love badass FMCs, magic, gods/goddesses, fae, elves, epic fighting scenes, romance, SPICE, banter - then this is your book! This story folllws the stunningly beautiful and badass Azahara, who just wants a normal life, except she’s been cursed by a JERK who just so happens to be a god, and she’s forced to live forever - or become his (booooo!!) Azahara lives for literally thousands of years, and stumbles upon this man named Kaed, who is half elf, half human, and then the story just takes OFF! Once I was able to settle into this book, I couldn’t put it down. I enjoyed the banter between all the characters, the romance between Kaed and Azahara is sooo sweet, and the SPICE - woooo! I appreciate a book that has a strong FMC who also isnt afraid to be a little vulnerable, and I loved how the author made you feel just how much turmoil Azahara faces the more she begins to care for the people around her. It ends on a cliffhanger, and I am SO ready for the second book!
January 19, 2025
Another from Stuff Your Kindle
This time excellent read and I will definitely buy more in the future (just don't know when)
The books suffers from some lazy (e.g. generic pre-industrial non-Earth but with Earth plants and animals with some 20th-century Earth clothing, plumbing and knowledge of microbiology) and sloppy worldbuilding (one of the characters is wearing POLYESTER. You can't have polyester without industrialization! There are catkins on willows in late autumn!) and could have used slightly closer editing (e.g. "it was all for not" instead of "it was all for nought"), but I *inhaled* the first half of it. The second half went slower only because I was consciously pacing myself
Excellent pacing, lovely characters, good conflict management, all the action and just a tiniest pinch of drama. I truly loved revealing short details of the past when they were somehow relevant instead of long passages of backstories that are so common
One thing that I recommend you read out of order: do not read the journal entry at the end of chapter 21, after . Put a bookmark there and in chapter 25, when go back to read it. Much better context for it
This time excellent read and I will definitely buy more in the future (just don't know when)
The books suffers from some lazy (e.g. generic pre-industrial non-Earth but with Earth plants and animals with some 20th-century Earth clothing, plumbing and knowledge of microbiology) and sloppy worldbuilding (one of the characters is wearing POLYESTER. You can't have polyester without industrialization! There are catkins on willows in late autumn!) and could have used slightly closer editing (e.g. "it was all for not" instead of "it was all for nought"), but I *inhaled* the first half of it. The second half went slower only because I was consciously pacing myself
Excellent pacing, lovely characters, good conflict management, all the action and just a tiniest pinch of drama. I truly loved revealing short details of the past when they were somehow relevant instead of long passages of backstories that are so common
One thing that I recommend you read out of order: do not read the journal entry at the end of chapter 21, after . Put a bookmark there and in chapter 25, when go back to read it. Much better context for it
February 8, 2024
4.5 fucking stars bro. & let me start by saying the ONLY reason I didn’t rate it a full 5 stars is because it was written in third person so I had to slow down & reread occasionally to make sure I was understanding what was taking place.
I honestly don’t even know where tf to begin with how good this book actually was though. I’m new to the fantasy genre & this definitely gave what it needed to give ! I felt ALL the feels. Happiness. Confusion. Sadness. Anger. The storyline was very intriguing. The characters & the banter was hilarious. The heart attacks & roller coaster rides were intense. Even the occasional spice that took place was 😮💨 I also LOVED how the descriptions of darker complexion characters were presented. & as a bisexual woman.. I enjoyed the fluidity of other characters.
this book has some very dark moments & many triggering scenes so definitely be mindful if you do decide to get into it.
I honestly don’t even know where tf to begin with how good this book actually was though. I’m new to the fantasy genre & this definitely gave what it needed to give ! I felt ALL the feels. Happiness. Confusion. Sadness. Anger. The storyline was very intriguing. The characters & the banter was hilarious. The heart attacks & roller coaster rides were intense. Even the occasional spice that took place was 😮💨 I also LOVED how the descriptions of darker complexion characters were presented. & as a bisexual woman.. I enjoyed the fluidity of other characters.
this book has some very dark moments & many triggering scenes so definitely be mindful if you do decide to get into it.
December 21, 2023
Fantasy has been my favourite genre offering me a fascinating, non-stop adventure in famous series such as TOG. When one day I came across the cover of The Hourglass Keeper, I was intrigued. Little did I know that it would be even better and knock the air out of my lungs!
I strongly feel that everything about this book is astounding! The writing fluid and flexible, the characters and their development brilliant, the plot cinematic and action-packed making my heart stop at every twist and turn,and believe me there are many! I'm especially lost for words when it comes to the electrifying tether between Aza and Kaed ; it made me completely forget I was reading!
It is a fact - I am obsessed and desperately hope this series will consist of many equally stunning books! I need Book 2 ASAP!! PLEASE!!
I strongly feel that everything about this book is astounding! The writing fluid and flexible, the characters and their development brilliant, the plot cinematic and action-packed making my heart stop at every twist and turn,and believe me there are many! I'm especially lost for words when it comes to the electrifying tether between Aza and Kaed ; it made me completely forget I was reading!
It is a fact - I am obsessed and desperately hope this series will consist of many equally stunning books! I need Book 2 ASAP!! PLEASE!!
October 19, 2023
This book was absolutely and truly amazing! The fantasy elements and everything was just so spot on. The whole book was so hard to put down and made it nearly impossible for it to leave my mind. This book, coming from a young woman, perfectly captures misogyny and the difficulties trying to navigate a world ruled by men, for men. I felt a true connection to Azahara and the female rage and frustration that she displays in The Hourglass Keeper. Not to mention Kaed who, without a doubt, is truly my new book boyfriend. The way he is written, along with all of the other characters, is just truly incredible to say the least. No doubt a 5 star read! I’m literally dying knowing that the second book isn’t out yet.
November 14, 2023
I’ve had the absolute pleasure of getting to read this as an arc. I’ve been torn on how to rate this one and how to get my thoughts out. First off I am not as big on third person as I used to be but that’s just a me problem. The book started out very strong I found myself immersed in the world M.L Burns created. I did find that there were parts that kind of dragged with extra information that probably could have been glazed over or skipped. There was a lot put into the world building and the landscape descriptors. I very much enjoyed this story and relationship built within the characters. Aza is such a strong empowering FMC and the character development was wonderful. I look forward to the next in the series.
November 11, 2023
This is the story of Azahara, a badass FMC, a woman cursed because of her beauty.
It starts when she is cursed and then we jump 500 years to when she meets the MMC, Kaed. He is just the perfect hero, has all the green flags, you'll love him. And she is a badass FMC so it's a great couple, and the spicy moments are just..wow.
This story may seem a romantic fantasy but it has trigger warnings, so check them first. It's a dark romantasy!
It's written in 3rd person, something different from almost all the books nowadays. So we don't get the pov from any character.
- this book was given to me as a free arc for an honest review -
It starts when she is cursed and then we jump 500 years to when she meets the MMC, Kaed. He is just the perfect hero, has all the green flags, you'll love him. And she is a badass FMC so it's a great couple, and the spicy moments are just..wow.
This story may seem a romantic fantasy but it has trigger warnings, so check them first. It's a dark romantasy!
It's written in 3rd person, something different from almost all the books nowadays. So we don't get the pov from any character.
- this book was given to me as a free arc for an honest review -
February 9, 2024
OK FIRST OF ALL… hear me out, I am NOT GOOD at reading third person, HOWEVER my bestie convinced me I’d LOVE this book. So I took a chance on both my bestie and this amazing author. Let me just tell you, IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT!! It captured me instantly, which helped me push through the struggle I have for the third person thing. So I’m here to tell you, do NOT let that deter you from reading this book and giving it a chance! The characters and spice and plot, gosh all of it just *chefs kiss* I AM READY FOR BOOK 2!!!!!
January 27, 2024
Top read
Wow. Just wow. This book had me hooked from the first page. Azahara is such a masterpiece as are the other characters. The growth each one saw throughout the book is incredible.
I love the world built in this book as well. I’d jump in it in a heartbeat. I cannot wait to read the next book and find out what happens.
100% a must read for anyone who reads fantasy and even those who don’t.
Wow. Just wow. This book had me hooked from the first page. Azahara is such a masterpiece as are the other characters. The growth each one saw throughout the book is incredible.
I love the world built in this book as well. I’d jump in it in a heartbeat. I cannot wait to read the next book and find out what happens.
100% a must read for anyone who reads fantasy and even those who don’t.
October 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I truly can’t believe more people haven’t read this book.
In a world where we are all obsessed with books like ACOTAR, fourth wing, etc., but reach a point where we understandably want things a little bit more unpredictable and spicy this fits in absolutely perfectly.
This is giving an ideal, romantic plot line, world, found family, but with an edge, and a twist of 50 1st dates and toxic possession thrown into the mix.
Diving right into the rest of this series!
I truly can’t believe more people haven’t read this book.
In a world where we are all obsessed with books like ACOTAR, fourth wing, etc., but reach a point where we understandably want things a little bit more unpredictable and spicy this fits in absolutely perfectly.
This is giving an ideal, romantic plot line, world, found family, but with an edge, and a twist of 50 1st dates and toxic possession thrown into the mix.
Diving right into the rest of this series!
December 16, 2025
Aza is Motherrr
Third person POV is usually harder for me to read.. but that’s just a me thing
I am losing my mind because this was such a great book 1 for a series.
I should be crying after those last few chapters, but here I am… trying to make time to squeeze book 2 in because I neeeeed to know what happens next
Also Im pretty sure Im pronouncing every name wrong 🤣🤣 but who gon check me boo?
Third person POV is usually harder for me to read.. but that’s just a me thing
I am losing my mind because this was such a great book 1 for a series.
I should be crying after those last few chapters, but here I am… trying to make time to squeeze book 2 in because I neeeeed to know what happens next
Also Im pretty sure Im pronouncing every name wrong 🤣🤣 but who gon check me boo?
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