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The Final Incarnation #1

Battle of Ash and Flame

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Assassins are killing healers with elemental powers. Serathor is threatening to attack and use dragons to raze her home. Linneya has one wish: to keep her people safe with her healing abilities. All of these plans are upended when Enthor's mysterious warrior, Darryn, arrives. Her secret is exposed and she is forced to leave home and marry.

Linneya is then faced with decisions that could affect the fate of millions in both kingdoms. When her escape attempt leads her directly into the arms of the enemy, she uses her powers to set her free and convince Darryn that her realm needs their help. Amidst fighting for her people and stepping into the full force of her magic, Linneya uncovers how love and family can be found in the most unlikely of places.

620 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 22, 2024

23 people are currently reading
215 people want to read

About the author

Ellie Fowler

3 books14 followers
Ellie Fowler is the fantasy romance pen name for Elizabeth Guthrie. She writes her fiction books to tell epic stories of healing and offer readers an escape into a rich world of magic.

As an author and editor in the complementary medicine space, Elizabeth became interested in the publishing industry after going through the querying and submission process herself, landing a book deal for Earth’s Embrace, which explores post-traumatic growth through the lens of plant medicine.

As talent director for Lucinda Literary Agency, she is committed to supporting writers in finding the most effective way to develop their manuscripts into impactful books that shine.

Elizabeth loves reading Non-Fiction Mind-Body-Spirit, Fantasy, Historical Fiction and Psychological thrillers. In addition to writing her own books and working with plant medicine, she also spends time freelance editing and ghostwriting.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
Profile Image for Mims | Ink Stained Darling.
86 reviews
September 15, 2024
Loved the magic and the twists and turns. It draws you in from the start and you’re instantly wanting to know more! The mmc, Darryn is deliciously brutal which swoon love that. Definitely check it out!
Profile Image for KMart Vet.
1,585 reviews85 followers
October 24, 2024
This centers on Linneya, a princess caught between her duty to her kingdom, her elemental powers, and a complex relationship with the brooding warrior Darryn. This book packs a lot into its pages; be prepared for this chonker!

Linneya's desire to protect her people feels genuine, and her struggle to balance her healing abilities with her destructive powers adds an interesting layer to her character arc. Her dynamic with the broody soldier she is forced to train with is one of attraction and tension, with plenty of interesting moments, though I did find their back-and-forth overdone at times. The repetitive misunderstandings and lack of communication made them feel younger than portrayed. It made the romance a bit frustrating for me. What I really appreciated was the supporting cast, particularly Eleanor, who evolves into a standout character. I hope that she takes an even bigger role in the next.

The political intrigue and world-building were intriguing, with enough complexity to give the plot some weight, although not all of it landed perfectly. While there’s action and drama, I couldn’t help but feel that it could have been trimmed down. Some conflicts and world-building details felt extraneous, and the pacing sometimes dragged, especially when certain issues were revisited multiple times without much resolution.

Overall, this is a slow burn, both in terms of romance and plot development. If you’re in the mood for a sprawling fantasy that’s rich in detail and doesn’t mind taking its time, this one might be for you. Just know that some elements, especially the pacing and romantic drama, might test your patience. I had a good time despite the minor flaws.

Thanks so much to BOMM and the author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lena.
118 reviews3 followers
September 22, 2024
First things first: I LOVE that this book was written in 3rd person POV! I miss this in fantasy books!

My review might have spoilers, but it's not totally spoilery. Does that make sense?

The story had me in a full chokehold from the start! I usually just read and let it be. Then a book comes around that just catches my attention and doesn't let go. This book was one of those. This is 100% a bookshelf trophy material! I'm getting the physical book as soon as it's available. I'd definitely get the audiobook as well if it ever comes out in that form. That's how much I enjoyed it!

The story follows Linneya and Darryn. The slow burn was beautifully agonising!

Their dynamics are quite entertaining and sometimes you want to grab them and slap some sense into them. So many times I was like WTF GET YOUR SHIT TOGETHER! Until they finally did!

Linneya is quite stubborn. This is visible through the whole story. She loves her home and people above all else (even though they did not deserve it. iykyk 👀)

She lands herself in a predicament that has her leaving her life at home behind, but that doesn't stop her from wanting to go back. Like, girl, your home basically left you for the wolves. Screw them! But nope. She wants to help them. The consistency of her character was quite admirable (despite me wanting to hit her for that on several occasions 🤣)

Darryn is your broody, chivalrous dude. I dont know if I'd call him morally grey? Because he's not? At least not in my eyes. The way he kept his shit together around Linneya was so well written! The weight of duty is heavy on his shoulders, but he eventually comes around 🤣

Grinnyn napping was the highlight of that scene 🤣 GENIUS! I laughed so much at that 🤣🤣

Also, Thranduil... I mean, Tiuthan and Eleanor? These two came at me from the sidelines and I was done for. What is it with side characters that steal the show? 🤣 THEY NEED THEIR OWN BOOK!

I totally called it about the assassin from the very start! The dude was too sus. (How does one write a coherent review that is spoiler-free? I can't do that haha)

A lot happens in the story and if I want to tell about it all, you'd have the whole book in here 🤣 so just get the book and read it! You won't regret it!

I absolutely loved this book and I want to thank the author for the opportunity to read the eARC!
Profile Image for Becca.
430 reviews28 followers
October 8, 2024
Sprinkle a little forbidden love, mixed with instant attraction and then pour on the dark brooding over protective male and you have the insane chemistry between. Linneya and Darryn.

What an adventure you go on reading Battle of Ash and Flame! You start off in a very fantasy world meets Bridgerton vibes of courting, match making and arranged marriages.

But things are uprooted quickly and the our lead characters Linneya and Darryn are forced to face their feeling for each other while also balancing the threat of an upcoming war.

I think this is a strong story and my attention was kept the entire time. My only comment being there was a decent bit of repetitiveness in the middle of the book and some bits that I thought needed a little more explaining.

Overall of you looking for a fantasy romance I think it’s definitely worthwhile to give it a go!

I know I can’t wait for more! I’ll be keeping close watch for any news on book 2!
Profile Image for Melanie Floyd.
40 reviews
September 14, 2024
I honesty don’t know where to begin. This was my first ARC read and I couldn’t be happier with this experience!!

The book was a great read. As a reader who loves to feel like they have stepped into the pages of the book and fully immersed in the story, Battle of Ash and Flame did not disappoint. The character and relationship building between characters was well done. I greatly appreciate the older FMC. It made her more relatable. The MMC just oozes touch her and die and I freaking love that so much! I cannot wait to read more about Darryn and Linneya.

The storyline was easy to follow and engaging. Ellie built the sloooooow burn and the suspense. You stay on your toes and let me tell you, you’re gonna scream WTF!! I just need answers to my questions!

Forewarning that time definitely works differently in this world but the guide in the beginning of the book breaks it down. My only wish would be to see a more comprehensive world map at the beginning because I love to bounce back to the map as my reference when travel occurs or specific regions are brought up.

Overall I give Battle of Ash and Flame 5 stars. I am looking forward to reading the next book once it’s out.

Thank you Ellie for letting me lose myself in a solid book!
Profile Image for Shannon K G.
311 reviews24 followers
September 16, 2024
I was given an arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
What an interesting plot line that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end

✅️Arranged marriage
✅️Elemental magic
✅️Slower burn
✅️Battle
✅️Great world building
Profile Image for SelkieReader.
481 reviews
September 26, 2024
This was my second ARC and the first I was able to finish

It starts off incredibly strong. The battle scenes and action scenes are definitely HUGE highlights of the book and the POV for the female main’s sister was amazing.

All the work, the author did setting the stage and explaining the world- how time works- is something that a reader must pay attention to to fully understand.

However, what started off so strong, lost me in the middle. It was repetitive. The two mains not able to communicate or listen and living in this liminal delusion of their lives.
Most of the middle could have been cut out.
I think due to the their relationship together, it’s hard to see either as adults or as strong leaders/fighters/lovers/etc.

The two main leads leave a lot wanting. Both are seemingly timid and cowardly. Letting life happen instead of acting on what they want. The male lead especially lacks the type of personality we expect from a fantasy romance male.
He doesn’t fight for his girl, he’s not ready to burn the world, he’s not touch her and die. He’s all about pawning her off on evil/not interested/likely gay men while he just does his job.
I have an inkling as to why… but that definitely should have been the cliffhanger at the end and not just a happily after battle.

Which brings me to the battle- wow- just wow.
If this book deleted the middle and started the war earlier- if the leads were fighting and F***ing- instead of being weak and indecisive. This would be a whole different review.
The author really really shines in the action scenes.

As far as the female lead sisters point of view, I feel like the author gave a lot more depth of character with that point of view, then was given to the two main leads. And some weird way I feel as if the two leads and their thought processes were kept most secret in comparison to the clarity that was given with , the female leads Sister.

I will definitely read the next book that comes out, for a first book this shows so much promise. The author definitely got more into the swing at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Shyla.
271 reviews5 followers
October 12, 2024
First off for being a first time author WOW! Ellie has written a book that is full of adventure, magic, love, mystery, legends, and so much more!

I read a some of the reviews before diving in (none with spoilers!) and honestly I was seriously shocked by all the reviews saying the MFC was fickle 🙂‍↔️. I feel like we were not reading the same book! She was thrown into a situation she did not want! (Seriously I don’t know many women that would be happy with the situation she was put in!). When things changed when she wanted to be happy ( seriously if you read the book she knows how she is feeling!) what’s confusing is the feeling being reciprocated “I want to be your friend and protect you!” And seriously he is hot and cold as hell! So he is not honest with how he is feeling! Stop shaming the MFC!! She gets put through hell!

I absolutely loved the book though! Both MC’s have a lot to figure out, but they have been on separate paths their whole lives and fate intervened. The world building is fascinating it feels like a lot at first but give it a chance! The impending war is hard but done so well! Please read the triggers this book will pull at all the emotions. I can’t wait for the next one! The cliffhanger is not bad! It leaves you excited for the next but not angry like the author dropped you off a cliff going “NO! I need more pages NOW!”

I highly recommend this book!! Specially if you like a strong MFC that is coming into herself and finding out just how strong she truly is! And a MMC that will do anything of the MFC!
Profile Image for Sam.
85 reviews11 followers
September 22, 2024
Blown away! If you are a fan of ACOTAR or Fourth Wing you will love this book! It has a unique magic system and phenomenal world building. Linneya and Darryn’s story has twists, turns, and tension that make it even more enticing to read. The side characters are written so well and I enjoy them just as much! I can’t wait to see where the next book will take us. Just a few of my favorite quotes:

“This dangerous and violent man, part of a group that destroyed entire cities, was on his knees and tenderly caring for her. She fought a smile.”

“You will learn, princess. Light cannot exist without darkness.”

"We cannot be together but that does not mean I do not want you." He leaned down and ran his nose up her jawline. Her blood heated as he whispered in her ear. "Creators, I want you. I fear the day that my self control breaks. I am dangerous for you, Linneya."

He leaned in and his voice tickled her ear. "Admit it. This marriage is not as bad as you had hoped it would be. My power sings to you, like yours sings to me. You may want to hate me, but your body is begging for my touch." "Your power may call to me, but it does not make up for that tongue of yours, sir," she spat. Growling, he placed one hand on the wall beside her head and the other around her waist. He drew her body close and pressed against her, their hips aligning and his lips brushing against her ear. "Do not underestimate what my tongue can do, Linneya."

And this is just in the first 25%!
Profile Image for Rebecca SitReadSip.
95 reviews5 followers
October 24, 2024
First off thank you Book of Matches Media & the author eARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book surprised me. When I started it I did not expect to be pulled in so much. I ended up staying up until 3am reading this beautiful story!

This author really thought through everything. The world building is phenomenal. All the way down to how many moons their world has to how long their days and nights are. The magic system is awesome, gave me Avatar the last air bender vibes, but different in a way that felt refreshed and new. The city relationships and royalty lineage was set up beautifully.

I highly recommend to all you magic lovers out there who love elemental magic systems, arranged marriage, hate to love, and more!
Profile Image for Shannon.
349 reviews12 followers
September 22, 2024
Thank you to the author for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book started off so strong, I was telling everyone about it. I love that the author created a whole world in a galaxy with a different time layout. I do wish it went a level deeper and created a different environment or new hazards.

Then it lost me majorly. A huge chunk in the middle could have been taken out. It got verrrry slow and repetitive, with the characters having the same argument and inner dialogue over and over. By the time it got interesting again, I just didn't care.

Darryn's character was pretty weakly built. Linneya was fickle and annoying. I also didn't feel like I really got to know the side characters, as dialogue was minimal. All the conflict was resolved way too easily, even the battle at the end.

The romance was very hot and cold, which was again too repetitive. I'm pretty sure I know why, but if I'm right, the reason should have been introduced in this first book. Instead, the reader is just left annoyed with the unrealistic romance arc.
Profile Image for Bre.
229 reviews15 followers
did-not-finish
October 26, 2024
I have to shelf this for now. It’s so incredibly dry. The world building is fantastic.
Profile Image for Victoria.
42 reviews4 followers
October 7, 2024
What a fantastic start to a series! I am DYING for the next book. The last 20% of this book was absolute fire-couldn’t put it down.

The main characters took some getting used to and I found myself drawn to more of the side characters but by the end I was engrossed in the storyline.

I want more dragons for sure! This is a fun and unique magic system and a storyline that will keep you turning pages.
Profile Image for Nikky Reads Romantasy.
143 reviews25 followers
November 15, 2024
In the mood for a high fantasy where the lore is complex and unique? Set in a world where time moves differently due to its astronomical rules (two suns!) we navigate a story full of elemental powers, arranged marriages with a slow burn enemies to lovers in the midst of a royal conflict where one healer princess tries to tip the scales in order to safe her home.

I liked each of these elements and loved that it could surprise me with its twists and turns. Especially the last part got me SO GOOD.

The book is a bit slow paced, in my opinion we could have done with less back and forth of the running away, prolonged denials and overall descriptive actions in between. BUT it is all worth it in the end, I’ll be following along and checking out the sequel when it drops!

I received this eARC courtesy of Books Of Matches Media. Thank you for the review opportunity!
Profile Image for Monet Daffodil.
805 reviews172 followers
October 3, 2024
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Battle of Ash and Blood
Author: Ellie Fowler
Fantasy

WOW is all I can say. It took me six days to finish this beast of a book which had around 600 pages. I had no idea what I was getting myself into when I requested this ARC. Damn was I surprised. First, I loved the magic system. I loved that our main character Linneya has elemental magic, and also healing properties. It was super unique and I found myself hooked from page one. A lot happened in 600 pages. I think the blurb gives a good spoiler free gist. Basically Linneya is trying to hide her powers since there are assassins hunting elementals, one in particular that she keeps dreaming about. Darryn is a sort of warrior/emissary that shows up at her home and ends up finding out her secret. This begins a whole ass adventure. Wasn’t too much spice but there was a splash! This book was worth the read and I enjoyed it so much.
Profile Image for Amanda Price (LifeWithAmandaP).
282 reviews18 followers
October 17, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2/5 🌶️🌶️

-

Tropes:
🐲Enemies to Lovers
🐺Found Family
🐲Touch her and 💀💀
🐺Mythical Creatures
🐲SPICY, SLOW BURN!
🐺Astrological System
🐲Extreme World Building

-

HOLY WOW, what an epic journey!

This Romantasy had me hooked from the very start with its phenomenal world building, romance, fantasy, romantasy, and plot! The world-building is absolutely incredible, with multiple suns, unique creatures, and a looming war on the horizon.

The story follows Linneya, a princess with hidden powers who is thrown into an arranged marriage with Darryn, a broody and protective prince from a rival kingdom. The slow-burn romance between them was so beautifully agonizing, full of tension and longing, and the found family vibes? PERFECTION! The way I page turned, just HOPING they would FINALLY admit their feelings towards one another.

The magic and lore in this book are absolutely top-tier, and I loved the intricate details woven into the world and the plot. From dragons and wolven beasts to an assassin on the loose, the stakes are high, and every character seems to be hiding something. Linneya’s internal struggles felt so relatable—her loyalty to her kingdom, her emerging feelings for Darryn, and her determination to protect those she loves had me rooting for her the entire time. Darryn, on the other hand, was the perfect mix of grumpy yet fiercely protective, and their dynamic was ELECTRIC. The tension between them was so palpable, I couldn’t stop reading! Had me turning page after page, trying to hit that sweet spot!

If you're a fan of arranged marriage, hidden powers, and slow-burn romance with a healthy dose of court politics and impending war, this is the book for you. The plot twists kept me guessing, and I was constantly theorizing about the characters' secrets. Battle of Ash and Flame is a must-read for fantasy romance lovers, and I cannot wait for book two!
Profile Image for Caitlin.
58 reviews
November 17, 2024
As an elemental, Linneya has healing abilities that would go far if she were to marry a foreigner in the tradition of her country. She's managed to evade that fate for years in order to remain at home and tend to her people. That is until her hand is forced, and she exposes her power to Darryn, a brooding warrior who had her full attention upon entry into the country. Now, as assassins target other elementals and both countries face another foreign threat, she must participate in the arranged marriage tradition, train, and become a force of nature worthy of a Battle of Ash and Flame.

I ARC read this one and purposely put off writing the review. This wasn't directed by the author, but it was advice I was given from another ARC reader. I promised a review, and I intend to give an honest one.

This book has a lot of interesting concepts and a classic forced marriage trope, but Lord, it needs an editor. Or if it already has one, a different editor. A vast majority of this book was filler; half the time, I felt like I was reading diary entries with monotonous detail of the characters' day. Towards the end, these details were finally condensed, but unfortunately, I found it to be too little too late and itching for it to just wrap up. Other issues included a bait-and-switch style of slowburn romance (that faded to black when we finally "did the deed"), characters that were written as complete stereotypes and not very complex, a lot of back and forth when it came to the plot that felt like a waste of time, and an FMC that was far from desirable. Don't get me wrong, not every FMC needs to be strong-willed or a warrior, but nothing annoys me more than when she's the equivalent of a wet and shivering chihuahua in a corner.

All in all, I genuinely hope the series gets better because again: fantastic and creative ideas for magic, dragons, and overall story. It's the follow-through that was lacking.
Profile Image for Steph.
88 reviews3 followers
October 14, 2024
Summary;
Assassins are killing healers with elemental powers. Serathor is threatening to attack and use dragons to raze her home. Linneya has one wish: to keep her people safe with her healing abilities. All of these plans are upended when Enthor's mysterious warrior, Darryn, arrives. Her secret is exposed and she is forced to leave home and marry.

Linneya is then faced with decisions that could affect the fate of millions in both kingdoms. When her escape attempt leads her directly into the arms of the enemy, she uses her powers to set her free and convince Darryn that her realm needs their help. Amidst fighting for her people and stepping into the full force of her magic, Linneya uncovers how love and family can be found in the most unlikely of places.

***

Pros;
The story is fantastic, well thought out with a good selection of characters – I loved so many of the side characters I can’t wait to learn more about them.
Fantastic world building, with a well thought out storyline, politics and motives.
I came to this book after reading the third Wheel of Time book, and yet I didn’t feel let down with this story. It kept me hooked from beginning to end!

Cons;
The timings were occasionally irritating, there is a different time structure and whilst it is clearly explained, at times it felt as though the differing time was used as a bit of a crutch to while away or speed up time.

Round up;
I really enjoyed this book! It was not what I expected at all, but the characters were fun and complex enough to keep me hooked. The story line has plenty of space in it for the series to stay interesting. I’m really looking forward to the next.

***

Disclaimer –
I received a free copy of this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
2 reviews
October 5, 2024
I read this book as part of eARC.

It was a quick read that I enjoyed. I think it is a solid 4/5.

The beginning felt a bit predictable and rushed. I felt like I already knew what was going to happen and there was not a lot of mystery.

I think the author’s craftsmanship flourished from the middle to the end. I really enjoyed the world building and I hope she can unravel a lot more of it in the future installments of this story.

The growth of the main female character was also a nice arch.

The main male character started off as a bit of annoyance for me, but I have grown fond of him as the author developed his personality through the book.

The romance part had plenty of spice, but did not keep away from the story, so in my eyes, that is a plus!

When I was reading I thought that it could have been easily 2 books and that would allow for further exploration of this fantastic world and deeper character developement.

Nevertheless, the few days I spent reading this book were really enjoyable.

If you enjoy romantasy and are looking for lighter read with an exciting world building and a lead character that comes to her full power, I would definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for Parker.
4 reviews1 follower
October 2, 2024
ARC read
Princess Linneya must hide her flame-talker abilities from those who seek to take them from her. Instead she focuses her abilities on healing people. When she must be wed to a Falorian Knight, whose last thought was of marriage, they must find a way to get along and save Linneya’s home country from the Serathanian armies. Talk of a Prophesied spreads through the realms and has everyone on edge, but Linneya is having strange dreams and must work to cipher through them and with the help of her Falorian Knight, Darryn, maybe they can find a way to save the ones they love.
This book was an adventure, and I loved the characters. For me, it was a little difficult to understand certain elements and could’ve been explained better, but all in all it was a good read. If you like fantasy and world building, definitely give it a read! There is a terrific twist at the end that I spent half the book trying to parse out and it kept me on my toes until the very end. I’m eagerly awaiting the second book to see where Linneya and Darryn’s adventure takes them next. Ellie did a fantastic job immersing us in this world and I can’t wait for more books from her!
Profile Image for Emily.
129 reviews
October 20, 2024
I received an eARC from the author, my very first ARC! I was immediately drawn in by the cover art and the synopsis. The world building is quite unique, especially with how time works differently with the two suns. The main characters, Linneya and Darryn, were both extremely stubborn at first, and I kept yelling at them in my head whenever they dug their heels in with their bullheadedness. Thankfully they got their acts together by the end. I admire Linneya's dedication to her home land, but I got a little annoyed with her single minded focus on getting back to her family. I wanted to shake her and ask how she truly thought she was just going to casually make her easy back home without causing a huge problem and not getting caught. She and Darryn had great chemistry as characters from the get go, and they were a delight to read. I did wish the writing in the book was a little less formal (including the dialogue between characters). I couldn't figure out what it was at first but realized that the author doesn't use any contractions (ex: let us go vs. let's go). Aside from that little work the book was an easy read, and I can't wait for the follow up books!
3 reviews
September 22, 2024
(I’m surprised to see critiques of Linneya being fickle. Fickle means switching ideas or loyalties so much you can’t trust someone. That does not describe this character. She does start to struggle with where her priorities/heart lies as relationships and so on develop. However this is an incredibly realistic and normal response to the situation. How weird would it be to devote yourself to something and then just drop it completely because you’re starting to love something else? To me, that would be a fickle thing to do. So honestly, Linneya is being the opposite of fickle. Just non-spoilery response to toss out there for possible readers.) *~*~* That being said, I really enjoyed this book. It’s a nice change to read fantasy with a romance undertone that follows adults and not 19-20 year olds (I like reading those too, but it was nice reading this adult age.) There’s such a strong plot and well thought out side characters. A lot of thought put into the world’s history and lore. Plus there’s even two suns in this! It was interesting to see how time was tracked with this. The writing is well done and I enjoyed trying to theorize the secrets and what would happen next. Excited for the next book, but could easily enjoy rereading this in the meantime.
693 reviews4 followers
January 26, 2025
I didn’t manage to finish this, though plowed through quite a lot of it. Its main problem is the nature of the romance between the two central characters. It’s a classic love at first sight but kept apart story of soul mates with a destiny. But there is no coherent logic to the keeping apart bit, and the whole thing feels like a rote regurgitation of a classic theme, but with just the outlines and no content. This is echoed in the rest of the plotting, which really doesn’t hold together well, and swings about between something being absolutely forbidden to absolutely imperative with no joining purpose or development. There are sparks of good things in the world building and in the central character, but really not enough.
My problem here was with more than the badly done romance, but my interest is always more in the character and plot than the romance element. So I need the fated romances to be kept at a balance with these if I’m going to enjoy this type of romantic fantasy.
Profile Image for Whitney.
503 reviews
April 20, 2025
This book was an all you can eat buffet of tropes - there was forced proximity, touch her and die, brooding mmc, (very) slow burn, elemental magic, and battle scenes. I loved the amount of world building that took place, once the reader grasped what was happening, it was so easy to become immersed in the world and be swept away.
Linneya and Darryn had such great chemistry, but this wasn't an instant love story. They had to face both external obstacles along with their own preconceived conceptions. But when they begin to hit their stride as a couple, it is pure magic watching them support and push each other. Along with solid main characters, the side characters are just as fully developed. While the plot does mainly focus on Linneya and Darryn, the side characters not only further that plot, but there are smaller plot threads that are just focused on those characters. All of which creates an amazingly nuanced book. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series.
32 reviews
September 21, 2024
The romance of Darryl and Linnea begins with a slow
burn attraction between reluctant non participants in the kingdoms marriage match for the nobility. Princess Linnea is only interested in seeing her sister find a loving husband while avoiding one for herself…little does she know how things will change!
The story takes the reader into a world bound by rules, eccentric rulers and court politics in a land under threat of evil rivals, magic and dragons. Can Linnea find
Happiness and love with Darryl and save her kingdom? The internal insecurities of Linnea force her to learn to trust and rely on her new friends and family and Darryl. Is it enough to bridge the gaps of her fears and loneliness? Will she and Darryl unite against a common evil? Will she find love and home? Well worth the read and I’m hoping for a book two soon!!!!
Profile Image for Meh V.
17 reviews
September 29, 2024
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
The story follows Linneya and Darryn
I really liked both the characters in the beginning but the slow burn got really slow and i had more expectations from Darryn's character but i still liked their chemistry and both the characters a lot in the end
i really liked the world building and the way the timeline was different and all the elemental magic was my favourite part
I also loved grinnyn
The assassin i kept thinking i knew who i was (i did) but then would start questioning a different character and when it was finally revealed in the end i actually went like "just die already"
Also Tiuthan and Eleanor?aaa i absolutely loved those two even when it was sudden and i hope we get a book about them
Overall the book is great if you are a fan of great world building, elemental magic, arrange marriage and slow burn
Profile Image for Stephanie McMinn.
34 reviews6 followers
October 6, 2024
⭐️: 4/5
🌶️: 1/5

I was fortunate and received an ARC. Let me start off with this book pulled me in quickly. The story itself was incredibly intriguing. The world building was easy enough to follow along with.


⚠️ ⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️POSSIBLE SPOILERS⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️⚠️


I enjoyed the fmc for once not being a superior killing machine. Honestly the mmc wasn’t a total bad ass either. Darryn honestly may be one of the first “dark and broody” mmc that I didn’t completely swoon for. My guy seems to have a big bad secret that hopefully is revealed in this next book. This book definitely kept me on my toes, I kept trying to guess plot twists before they occurred and was pleasantly wrong majority of the time. Eventually I got to a point where I absolutely couldn’t put this book down. I look forward to the next book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
93 reviews
December 12, 2024
A Must Read! This debut novel is stunning!

This tale draws you in immediately. The world building is intricate and done with detail, precision and love. The characters are well-drawn. They are imperfect, captivating, and frustrating at times - all the qualities that family have so that you love them and want to slap them at the same time. The side characters and couples add layers of depth to the story. The slow burn heat between the main characters and the spice as they break through to one another...You will laugh, you will cry, and you will fall in love with Linneya, Darryn and their beguiling world and the teases of the further story to come...reincarnation tales beckon as Fowler sets the stage for her second book. I CANNOT WAIT!!!! #reincarnation #spice #fae # monsters #worldbuilding
Profile Image for Lisa.
99 reviews21 followers
December 17, 2024
** CHECK TRIGGER WARNINGS **

Oh this was a good one! A kingdom on a brand new planet that is unlike any other. Two suns, longer days, longer seasons. Other worldly creatures. And magic. I loved the creation of an unnatural world. It was new and exciting and so many different things to experience. There was so much character growth throughout from the main characters to even the side characters. An arranged marriage between Linneya and Darryn that progressively builds that leaves you with all kinds of emotions. All the while trying to prevent a war from happening in Linneya’s homeland. Linneya finding her true self and being welcomed to a new found family was so heartwarming. There was so much going on but the way the author created it all, it flowed seamlessly. This was an enchanting read.
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I received this book for free as an ARC and in return gave my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Heather.
300 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2025
I was instantly drawn to this couple. I NEEDED their connection to grow and solidify.

It begins with an arranged marriage with insta love/connection… BUT MAN, do they fight it! That alone created quite the slow burn! At first it was intoxicating by the end I was frustrated. Once things settled it was so satisfying!!

The magic system was seriously awesome! I loved it, and can’t wait to explore more in book 2.

Eleanor!!! I CANNOT wait to see what chaos she brings to the story too! Yes going to be fiery, I think!

The world that Ellie Fowler has built is truely unique and I really appreciated that. It wasn’t hard to follow or become quickly enamoured with it.

The story, and where the drama is pointing to book 2 is going to be really exciting I think.

I think there is still once secret which is still leaving me a bit unsettled.

Otherwise I really enjoyed it!
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