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The Lines of Ebrus #.1
Daughter of the Ninth Line: Part One
Every year, on the first day of spring, each of the Twelve Lines of Ebrus sends a conscript to enrol in Boellium War College, the training ground for Ebrus' Dawn Army. Some come willingly, others not so much.
Avalon Halhed had two lie low and survive her conscription at Boellium War College, and then retire to be an eccentric old woman in a run down cabin in the secluded mountains of her family's lands. To achieve those goals she had keep herself apart from the other conscripts and not draw attention to herself. No friends. No connections.
However, as days turn into weeks, Avalon fails at remaining a shadow to haunt the halls of Boellium. Instead, she draws the gaze of two of the most powerful people in all of Ebrus. They look at her and see too much, and that terrifies her most of all.
Because what if they see past Avalon Halhed, unwanted daughter of the Ninth Line, and right down to her secrets? Secrets that killed her mother and made her father hate her?
Secrets that would make the whole country of Ebrus want her dead if they knew?
This is Part One of a Novella Series.
Avalon Halhed had two lie low and survive her conscription at Boellium War College, and then retire to be an eccentric old woman in a run down cabin in the secluded mountains of her family's lands. To achieve those goals she had keep herself apart from the other conscripts and not draw attention to herself. No friends. No connections.
However, as days turn into weeks, Avalon fails at remaining a shadow to haunt the halls of Boellium. Instead, she draws the gaze of two of the most powerful people in all of Ebrus. They look at her and see too much, and that terrifies her most of all.
Because what if they see past Avalon Halhed, unwanted daughter of the Ninth Line, and right down to her secrets? Secrets that killed her mother and made her father hate her?
Secrets that would make the whole country of Ebrus want her dead if they knew?
This is Part One of a Novella Series.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2025
759 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Grace McGinty
64 books2,200 followersWhen I was nine, my grandmother and her friends used to read and swap Harlequin Mills and Boons novels. When I was busted reading one, they started sneaking me boxes full of strong heroines and rugged men. Thus started a long love affair with the romance genre.
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
Then I discovered urban fantasy, and fell in love with broody Alphas and sexy paranormals, and combining them together was a no brainer.
Then I discovered Reverse Harem.... Oh my. Why choose, am I right?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
April 18, 2025
Not a complete book
This is a piece of a book. That should have been in BIG BOLD PRINT in the description. I love GM books, but this ended without resolving anything. It's not even a cliffhanger, just a piece of a book, and an attempt to get readers to join her Patreon. That's fine, but let people know this isn't the whole story so they can choose if they want to read a story in pieces or not. I'll wait till this is all finished and then read it. If it was any other author I would have given it 1 star, but she's an excellent writer and what is here is a good start.
This is a piece of a book. That should have been in BIG BOLD PRINT in the description. I love GM books, but this ended without resolving anything. It's not even a cliffhanger, just a piece of a book, and an attempt to get readers to join her Patreon. That's fine, but let people know this isn't the whole story so they can choose if they want to read a story in pieces or not. I'll wait till this is all finished and then read it. If it was any other author I would have given it 1 star, but she's an excellent writer and what is here is a good start.
July 8, 2025
4.5
WARNING, don’t read the reviews go in blind 100% worth it. Well, this is the first book in a while that has kept my interest. And it was just enough bulling, without being too much. I wasn’t expecting that end, but I think I know why,we’ll see.
WARNING, don’t read the reviews go in blind 100% worth it. Well, this is the first book in a while that has kept my interest. And it was just enough bulling, without being too much. I wasn’t expecting that end, but I think I know why,we’ll see.
April 26, 2025
Didn’t feel like a Grace book until that surprise twist at the end. 👍
September 11, 2025
Academy fantasy romance possibly more than one romantic interest. This is part 1 of 3 in book 1, parts of book 2 not out on KU yet.
A lot of this plot has the subtlety of a sledge hammer. Cliche violent opening, cliche characters, cliche world building. Be prepared for deja vu because not only is this a fairly common academy world building idea, the author chose to subject the reader to a groundhog style plot device by making the reader sit through a repeat of the story so far without changing the details by much.
After the torture of reading a summary of the book in the last two chapters of part 1 and re-reading it again in the first two chapters of part 2, I gave up when I realised I was going to have to read the part 1 story three times with only tiny changes and book 2 is not out yet. I hate repetition with a passion and I think it is lazy if it doesn't offer a different viewpoint or new info to the reader from the beginning.
This author has been a hit or miss for me. I will try again when this "duology" is eventually finished.
A lot of this plot has the subtlety of a sledge hammer. Cliche violent opening, cliche characters, cliche world building. Be prepared for deja vu because not only is this a fairly common academy world building idea, the author chose to subject the reader to a groundhog style plot device by making the reader sit through a repeat of the story so far without changing the details by much.
After the torture of reading a summary of the book in the last two chapters of part 1 and re-reading it again in the first two chapters of part 2, I gave up when I realised I was going to have to read the part 1 story three times with only tiny changes and book 2 is not out yet. I hate repetition with a passion and I think it is lazy if it doesn't offer a different viewpoint or new info to the reader from the beginning.
This author has been a hit or miss for me. I will try again when this "duology" is eventually finished.
April 21, 2025
Not sure what I think about Avalon yet. I don't feel like I know enough about her, but what I do know, I like. Hayle is...le sigh. Soooo yummy. Vox is a typical ruling class asshole heir...stuck up, full of himself and disdain for everyone "lower" than him with, maybe, hints of a conscience. I suppose we'll see. I'm loving the 12th line.
That ending? HO-LY Shit!
This will probably end up being a 5 star series for me. I love the author. But I really think this should be called a prequel rather than part 1. I feel like "Part 1" indicates full length, ending on a cliff and this was not that. I definitely can't wait for more!
That ending? HO-LY Shit!
This will probably end up being a 5 star series for me. I love the author. But I really think this should be called a prequel rather than part 1. I feel like "Part 1" indicates full length, ending on a cliff and this was not that. I definitely can't wait for more!
May 4, 2025
This is an academy book, that has some Hunger Games society flavour, but with supernatural abilities and what seems to be the beginnings of a reverse harem. It's a serial being written behind a pay wall on Patreon but released in KU later on. Kind of a fun reading experience and I'm looking forward to seeing where the author takes us.
Read
December 4, 2025DNF. Ugh, such unnatural sounding dialogue. Unfortunately I don’t think this author puts much into her books anymore.
We’ll always have Dark River Days and Six Seconds to Fly.
We’ll always have Dark River Days and Six Seconds to Fly.
May 27, 2025
DNF 33%
This novella is bad. No two ways about it.
The first two chapters already contained plot holes. Apparently there are only eleven lines, and each line sends 1 young person per year to the college, and the college is for two years, at maximum, so there should be 22 people there, excluding staff. And yet, in the MCs dorm, there are six empty beds and because the ninth line candidate from last year died, she’s alone. Then in the cafeteria, she intimates there are dozens of people. How is this possible?? An explanation was given for the twelfth line conscripts, but that only accounted for 24ish people. Another line had 12, and yet in chapter 6, the headmaster says 37 people TOTAL were enrolled and that math just ain’t mathing when you take into account how many people are supposedly there and the number of lines.
Then in the cafeteria the FMC said each line had its own food line in the cafeteria and then a page later there’s a girl in line behind her, when she’s supposed to be the only ninth line.
In this same speech from the headmaster, he says “for the first time in quite a few decades, four out of the eleven eligible Lines sent us their best and brightest, with Heirs from the Lines themselves within our college walls.” And yet in chapter one we were told that each line was supposed to send a direct line decendent (an heir) once a decade, so it seems impossible that it hadn’t happened in such a long time, even if it was for some reason staggered.
One of the MMCs, Vox, while listening to the speech thinks, “It would be the same as last year, and probably the year before that.” But A) it’s only a two year school and B) the headmaster JUST SAID it was the first year 4 heirs had been enrolled, leading to the assumption they were all first years.
This line drove me nuts! “than the rest of the rest of us combined.”
This was only the major issues, but there were plenty more, including another MMC, Hayle, and his necklaces that he never took off but put back on but then were off again.
These inconsistencies in the first 7 chapters (and apparently 33% of the book), completely ruined any enjoyment.
It’s enemies to lovers, but only with ONE of her harem and there’s only two MMCs, not actually a harem.
Honestly, super disappointed because this seemed like a super interesting and slightly different premise, but the execution is severely lacking.
This is a novella, only 136 pages but I just couldn’t go further than 33%. The writing and editing and plot holes were so glaringly bad and the next book in the series (presumably full length) won’t be complete for a long time as the author is writing it chapter by chapter on patreon. I seriously dislike this new trend of drip feeding chapters of unreleased novels (in their entirety and unedited) to those who pay a monthly fee. Sorry but any author who does this loses me as a reader, it feels disingenuous and frankly gross.
Oh and apparently nothing happens in this book until you hit a massive cliffhanger according to other reviews. Good luck if you do read this, you’ll need it.
This novella is bad. No two ways about it.
The first two chapters already contained plot holes. Apparently there are only eleven lines, and each line sends 1 young person per year to the college, and the college is for two years, at maximum, so there should be 22 people there, excluding staff. And yet, in the MCs dorm, there are six empty beds and because the ninth line candidate from last year died, she’s alone. Then in the cafeteria, she intimates there are dozens of people. How is this possible?? An explanation was given for the twelfth line conscripts, but that only accounted for 24ish people. Another line had 12, and yet in chapter 6, the headmaster says 37 people TOTAL were enrolled and that math just ain’t mathing when you take into account how many people are supposedly there and the number of lines.
Then in the cafeteria the FMC said each line had its own food line in the cafeteria and then a page later there’s a girl in line behind her, when she’s supposed to be the only ninth line.
In this same speech from the headmaster, he says “for the first time in quite a few decades, four out of the eleven eligible Lines sent us their best and brightest, with Heirs from the Lines themselves within our college walls.” And yet in chapter one we were told that each line was supposed to send a direct line decendent (an heir) once a decade, so it seems impossible that it hadn’t happened in such a long time, even if it was for some reason staggered.
One of the MMCs, Vox, while listening to the speech thinks, “It would be the same as last year, and probably the year before that.” But A) it’s only a two year school and B) the headmaster JUST SAID it was the first year 4 heirs had been enrolled, leading to the assumption they were all first years.
This line drove me nuts! “than the rest of the rest of us combined.”
This was only the major issues, but there were plenty more, including another MMC, Hayle, and his necklaces that he never took off but put back on but then were off again.
These inconsistencies in the first 7 chapters (and apparently 33% of the book), completely ruined any enjoyment.
It’s enemies to lovers, but only with ONE of her harem and there’s only two MMCs, not actually a harem.
Honestly, super disappointed because this seemed like a super interesting and slightly different premise, but the execution is severely lacking.
This is a novella, only 136 pages but I just couldn’t go further than 33%. The writing and editing and plot holes were so glaringly bad and the next book in the series (presumably full length) won’t be complete for a long time as the author is writing it chapter by chapter on patreon. I seriously dislike this new trend of drip feeding chapters of unreleased novels (in their entirety and unedited) to those who pay a monthly fee. Sorry but any author who does this loses me as a reader, it feels disingenuous and frankly gross.
Oh and apparently nothing happens in this book until you hit a massive cliffhanger according to other reviews. Good luck if you do read this, you’ll need it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2025
Plot: 4/5 • Smut: 1/5 ————-> Avalon is being sent to the war college pretty much as tribute to her family. There are twelve lines that all branch into the college. She’s from the ninth line. Not the bottom, per se, but not the top six. She tries her hardest to stay under the radar, but catches the attention of the men from the first line and the third line. Hayle, from the third line, considers Avalon his soul bond. With Hayle by her side, she doesn’t stay under the radar for too long. Thing ends on a cliffy. Everyone who loves Fourth Wing and Hunger Games should give this novella a chance. It was well worth the ride.
Smut? We get one scene with Avalon and Hayle. Short, sweet and to the point. 😍
Smut? We get one scene with Avalon and Hayle. Short, sweet and to the point. 😍
May 8, 2025
3.5* There is a reason.
This was a quick read, which to be fair is sometimes a good thing.
The characters were easy to like. I easily took to Avalon (heroine) always a massive plus to like the MC. What does she look like though?? The book didn't focus on bullying or blood and gore. Makes it a somewhat soft read.
Now the issue I had with it is the lack of a solid plot. It feels like we are about to embark on a massive journey but don't pass go. We have hints about Avalon but right to the repeated first chapter at 98% mind, we get nothing. To me it's as though the author hasn't solidified the plot and it's still up in the air. It doesn't help that chapters are still literally being written. This book is a prologue, if you will.
So it begs the question, how long will this series be??
The bottom line though is I read this in 2.5hrs and wasn't bored. I'm looking forward to seeing where this story goes.
This was a quick read, which to be fair is sometimes a good thing.
The characters were easy to like. I easily took to Avalon (heroine) always a massive plus to like the MC. What does she look like though?? The book didn't focus on bullying or blood and gore. Makes it a somewhat soft read.
Now the issue I had with it is the lack of a solid plot. It feels like we are about to embark on a massive journey but don't pass go. We have hints about Avalon but right to the repeated first chapter at 98% mind, we get nothing. To me it's as though the author hasn't solidified the plot and it's still up in the air. It doesn't help that chapters are still literally being written. This book is a prologue, if you will.
So it begs the question, how long will this series be??
The bottom line though is I read this in 2.5hrs and wasn't bored. I'm looking forward to seeing where this story goes.
April 21, 2025
Ok this this book is part 1 the book isn’t finished and if you don’t like cliffhangers then wait u til it’s finished.
I THROUGHLY LOVED THIS BOOK !
VERY GOOD CHARACTERS AND STORYLINE
SLIGHTLY WHY CHOSE
REMINDED ME OF a tad of the hunger games / game of thrones
Can’t wait to read what’s next
I THROUGHLY LOVED THIS BOOK !
VERY GOOD CHARACTERS AND STORYLINE
SLIGHTLY WHY CHOSE
REMINDED ME OF a tad of the hunger games / game of thrones
Can’t wait to read what’s next
August 22, 2025
just read it
like i don’t even know how to explain just wow
like i don’t even know how to explain just wow
October 2, 2025
2.75 ⭐️ the ending pissed me off. This is a novella, the premise was good, Avalon goes to academy and falls in love with two people. However the insta love felt extra unnatural to me and the ending upset me.
January 6, 2026
3 stars, but somehow I almost want to round it up to a 4. This is that review of the full book (part 1+2+3)
I came so close to DNFing it early on, halfway though part 1 (around chapter 8), but I’m glad I didn't.
Pros
✅One of the best plot twists i've ever read (Chapter 20, which is probably the last page of part one or first page of part 2) I did not see it coming, and it recontextualized the story in a way that made me overlook many of the things that had bothered me.
✅I liked both fmc and both mc:s! (At least after chapter 20)
✅The fmcs special power felt new and unique!
Cons (sadly, there's many)
❌Inconsistent characterization
In several early chapters, I struggled to believe how quickly the FMC (Avalon) opened up emotionally to her “enemies” (especially the scene by the sea). This felt out of character for someone so guarded, survival-oriented, and used to being alone. I was extremely close to putting the book down because of this. However, after continuing—and especially after the plot twist—my understanding of her character shifted, which softened this issue in retrospect.
❌The 12th Line characters felt emotionally flat and unrealistic.
Although I liked the concept of the characters from the 12th Line, their behavior often felt shallow and tonally off. Considering they are described as being on the brink of starvation, their reactions frequently came across as overly carefree—focused on partying, dressing up, and casual romantic encouragement—without enough emotional weight behind them.
There was a noticeable lack of deeper emotional responses such as anger, resentment, hopelessness, grief, or envy toward the ruling Lines. Given their circumstances, these feelings should have been more present throughout the book. The absence of this emotional complexity made the characters feel flatter than they should have been and weakened the realism of their situation.
❌Lack of realism regarding scarcity:
The 12th Line is portrayed as starving, yet they still seem to have access to makeup, party-appropriate clothing, and other non-essential resources. This didn’t feel believable, as those items would realistically be traded for food or survival. This disconnect made the worldbuilding feel inconsistent.
❌ Modern language breaking immersion:
Some modern phrases felt out of place in what otherwise seems like a fantasy or medical-fantasy setting ("lets do shots in the living room!") This could be improved either by clarifying early on that the world is more modern (or semi-modern), or by revisiting word choices to better match the setting.
❌Plot holes
Summary
Overall, the book feels like it would have benefited greatly from a stronger editorial pass. With tighter characterization, fixing the plot holes and better worldbuilding, this story could have been great! But, I still enjoyed reading it.
I came so close to DNFing it early on, halfway though part 1 (around chapter 8), but I’m glad I didn't.
Pros
✅One of the best plot twists i've ever read (Chapter 20, which is probably the last page of part one or first page of part 2) I did not see it coming, and it recontextualized the story in a way that made me overlook many of the things that had bothered me.
✅I liked both fmc and both mc:s! (At least after chapter 20)
✅The fmcs special power felt new and unique!
Cons (sadly, there's many)
❌Inconsistent characterization
In several early chapters, I struggled to believe how quickly the FMC (Avalon) opened up emotionally to her “enemies” (especially the scene by the sea). This felt out of character for someone so guarded, survival-oriented, and used to being alone. I was extremely close to putting the book down because of this. However, after continuing—and especially after the plot twist—my understanding of her character shifted, which softened this issue in retrospect.
❌The 12th Line characters felt emotionally flat and unrealistic.
Although I liked the concept of the characters from the 12th Line, their behavior often felt shallow and tonally off. Considering they are described as being on the brink of starvation, their reactions frequently came across as overly carefree—focused on partying, dressing up, and casual romantic encouragement—without enough emotional weight behind them.
There was a noticeable lack of deeper emotional responses such as anger, resentment, hopelessness, grief, or envy toward the ruling Lines. Given their circumstances, these feelings should have been more present throughout the book. The absence of this emotional complexity made the characters feel flatter than they should have been and weakened the realism of their situation.
❌Lack of realism regarding scarcity:
The 12th Line is portrayed as starving, yet they still seem to have access to makeup, party-appropriate clothing, and other non-essential resources. This didn’t feel believable, as those items would realistically be traded for food or survival. This disconnect made the worldbuilding feel inconsistent.
❌ Modern language breaking immersion:
Some modern phrases felt out of place in what otherwise seems like a fantasy or medical-fantasy setting ("lets do shots in the living room!") This could be improved either by clarifying early on that the world is more modern (or semi-modern), or by revisiting word choices to better match the setting.
❌Plot holes
Summary
Overall, the book feels like it would have benefited greatly from a stronger editorial pass. With tighter characterization, fixing the plot holes and better worldbuilding, this story could have been great! But, I still enjoyed reading it.
July 8, 2025
{Academy PNR Romance; Love Triangle?; Multiple POV}
I cannot believe how much I enjoyed this! The surprise ending floored me, and I cried along with the main character, Avalon. But understand, the academy is cut-throat, and survival is not guaranteed.
First line:
“There was blood pooling on the cobblestone entrance of the Boellium War College. I shouldn’t be surprised, given the baying of the crowd”
--I love a powerful first line that draws me into the story! Matter of fact, I purchased the book after I read the first page. My habit is to download samples to see the quality of writing and creativity before I decide.
Avalon is plain, an unwanted child, and decidedly middle class. She reached the golden age of 23 without a marriage contract and was notified she would attend a war college. Her skills? Embroidery and housekeeping. Her magic? Non-existent.
Luckily, her personality is such that she can face two salivating guard dogs without flinching, and she can banter with the best. I expected a hard, cold superwoman and got a relatable person I could root for. I could see why two different men of the upper castes were interested in her despite the social restrictions against marriage of ‘inferior’ genetics.
Culture:
There are 12 family lines, or castes. Only the upper 6 lines have magic capabilities, and the first line is the most powerful. They eradicated the second line long ago to remove the closest threat.
6 lines attend to make connections or marriage proposals.
The other 6 lines without little to no magic attend to be ‘canon fodder.’ I really like the 12th line a lot. As the poorest community, they learned to be artisans and artists, and I get the impression they are a massive Burning Man convention.
The Love Triangle:
Sex level: Open Door, one explicit scene. But what a scene! She starts as a virgin, but...it’s like a Fated Mate or Omegaverse novel, with a week-long cuddle in her dorm room.
The two guys competing for her:
Vox Vylan or Vylan Vox: “The ruling family of the First Line, the Vylan family, ruled Ebrus with unwavering ruthlessness,” really only looks at the plain girl closely when she fails to bow to his greatness, then decides he wants her because the other man wants her. He’s almost a bully.
Hayle Taeme: of the third line, the Beastmasters, falls for her when she treats the animals nicely. It’s sweet.
The nice thing is that Avalon helps the two grow to respect the lower classes a little more.
This book definitely qualifies in my top five reads of the year so far.
I cannot believe how much I enjoyed this! The surprise ending floored me, and I cried along with the main character, Avalon. But understand, the academy is cut-throat, and survival is not guaranteed.
First line:
“There was blood pooling on the cobblestone entrance of the Boellium War College. I shouldn’t be surprised, given the baying of the crowd”
--I love a powerful first line that draws me into the story! Matter of fact, I purchased the book after I read the first page. My habit is to download samples to see the quality of writing and creativity before I decide.
Avalon is plain, an unwanted child, and decidedly middle class. She reached the golden age of 23 without a marriage contract and was notified she would attend a war college. Her skills? Embroidery and housekeeping. Her magic? Non-existent.
Luckily, her personality is such that she can face two salivating guard dogs without flinching, and she can banter with the best. I expected a hard, cold superwoman and got a relatable person I could root for. I could see why two different men of the upper castes were interested in her despite the social restrictions against marriage of ‘inferior’ genetics.
Culture:
There are 12 family lines, or castes. Only the upper 6 lines have magic capabilities, and the first line is the most powerful. They eradicated the second line long ago to remove the closest threat.
6 lines attend to make connections or marriage proposals.
The other 6 lines without little to no magic attend to be ‘canon fodder.’ I really like the 12th line a lot. As the poorest community, they learned to be artisans and artists, and I get the impression they are a massive Burning Man convention.
The Love Triangle:
Sex level: Open Door, one explicit scene. But what a scene! She starts as a virgin, but...it’s like a Fated Mate or Omegaverse novel, with a week-long cuddle in her dorm room.
The two guys competing for her:
Vox Vylan or Vylan Vox: “The ruling family of the First Line, the Vylan family, ruled Ebrus with unwavering ruthlessness,” really only looks at the plain girl closely when she fails to bow to his greatness, then decides he wants her because the other man wants her. He’s almost a bully.
Hayle Taeme: of the third line, the Beastmasters, falls for her when she treats the animals nicely. It’s sweet.
The nice thing is that Avalon helps the two grow to respect the lower classes a little more.
This book definitely qualifies in my top five reads of the year so far.
April 24, 2025
4.5 stars
Firstly, this is only part one not a complete book and reads more like a novella/prequel.
That being said I was drawn into this world and characters so fast. The magic system is quite intriguing and it certainly felt like there was going to be more to discover about it as the series goes on. I also felt like the ruling class system gave some Hunger Games vibes but this is quite different. I am not one for insta love but I do love a fated mates when done well. I really loved the dynamic between Hayle and Avalon. Hayle was my fav character with Viana a close second. Vox is exactly what you expect from a pretentious, self absorbed, powerful guy from the ruling class. I am hoping he has a great character development arc though as there did seem to be potential. This seems like it is leaning towards a RH as well. Considering how short this was, Grace has done an amazing job of setting up this story, as well as making me invested in the characters.
This is your warning though, the ending made my jaw drop, and for a moment I thought the copy I had had an error. But when I read through the final chapter a little more slowly I realised what happened or at least I think I do. It was definitely a hell of a twist that I didn't see coming.
The thing for me that let this down a little was there were a couple of small things that didn't make complete sense. One that they have a war collage for what was suggested to be such a small group, where the rest of the people who make up the rest of the army come from and how there were so many still at the war collage when it was suggested that most are only there for 2 years.
Firstly, this is only part one not a complete book and reads more like a novella/prequel.
That being said I was drawn into this world and characters so fast. The magic system is quite intriguing and it certainly felt like there was going to be more to discover about it as the series goes on. I also felt like the ruling class system gave some Hunger Games vibes but this is quite different. I am not one for insta love but I do love a fated mates when done well. I really loved the dynamic between Hayle and Avalon. Hayle was my fav character with Viana a close second. Vox is exactly what you expect from a pretentious, self absorbed, powerful guy from the ruling class. I am hoping he has a great character development arc though as there did seem to be potential. This seems like it is leaning towards a RH as well. Considering how short this was, Grace has done an amazing job of setting up this story, as well as making me invested in the characters.
This is your warning though, the ending made my jaw drop, and for a moment I thought the copy I had had an error. But when I read through the final chapter a little more slowly I realised what happened or at least I think I do. It was definitely a hell of a twist that I didn't see coming.
The thing for me that let this down a little was there were a couple of small things that didn't make complete sense. One that they have a war collage for what was suggested to be such a small group, where the rest of the people who make up the rest of the army come from and how there were so many still at the war collage when it was suggested that most are only there for 2 years.
October 3, 2025
First off- I loved this. I haven’t read a novella in FOREVER and I’m so happy to have found this one. I liked the story and the plot, and I liked that it wasn’t that deep. It was a quick read with big moments and big characters. Also- what the fuck happened? I dont understand? At the end, her true love dies and the story resets itself - at first I thought that maybe that was her secret power - but I don’t think it is because she doesn’t mention knowing him when she sees him for the first time for the second time. And I maybe took a sneak peek at all of the other books and it look like they are all the same plot line? So I admit I am a bit confused. I will be disappointed if the plot doesn’t progress (we still don’t know what her big secret is - unless it’s the secret she spilled on day 2). Anyways I am confused, I think I said what the fuck 10 times now. Maybe I read the ending too fast? Brb while I go try to figure out what happened.
ok so i cheated and read reviews of book 3 and it seems like its a time loop story and each time the details are a bit different but the same ending is she resets it cuz its her power? but someone said its never officially explained- just that she doesnt remember anything from previous books. Knowing that I have decided not to read further and just to be happy with this book :)
ok so i cheated and read reviews of book 3 and it seems like its a time loop story and each time the details are a bit different but the same ending is she resets it cuz its her power? but someone said its never officially explained- just that she doesnt remember anything from previous books. Knowing that I have decided not to read further and just to be happy with this book :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
Okay then... I picked this up after trolling through my KU recommendations, and while I read the three individual novellas (don't recommend that) I did see that they had been combined into a book, so - yah?
After reading the first part (aka novella 1), I went onto part 2 only to be completely confused by the restarting of the story. It honestly took me a little while to realise that this was the story retold but different. A little warning would have been nice. However, this retelling of the story after each defining moment, you'll see what I mean, is actually a very important part of the story, even if it isn't explained until much later in the book. Keep with it as the revelation is important.
I did like the character. I had trouble with some of the toxic-relationship qualities during parts of the do-overs, however by the third part it sorted itself out (for the most part). Each retelling is fast paced and different enough that while very deja-vu, it makes this turn of the wheel pass relatively quickly as you keep reading to see what's changed, what has stayed the same, and leaves you anxious to see what will trigger the next turning point.
An interesting idea. Liked it enough after realising what was happening that I went onto the next leg of the journey (after the big reveal).
3.25 stars
After reading the first part (aka novella 1), I went onto part 2 only to be completely confused by the restarting of the story. It honestly took me a little while to realise that this was the story retold but different. A little warning would have been nice. However, this retelling of the story after each defining moment, you'll see what I mean, is actually a very important part of the story, even if it isn't explained until much later in the book. Keep with it as the revelation is important.
I did like the character. I had trouble with some of the toxic-relationship qualities during parts of the do-overs, however by the third part it sorted itself out (for the most part). Each retelling is fast paced and different enough that while very deja-vu, it makes this turn of the wheel pass relatively quickly as you keep reading to see what's changed, what has stayed the same, and leaves you anxious to see what will trigger the next turning point.
An interesting idea. Liked it enough after realising what was happening that I went onto the next leg of the journey (after the big reveal).
3.25 stars
May 10, 2025
Girl heads off to death camp with an "I'm not here to make friends" mentality and is immediately befriended by a girl from a worse part of town with a perpetually positive demeanour, an array of mythical creatures and a boy who is literal sunshine disguised in flashes of violence. There is an arrogant, entitled bad boy who is obviously sexy as hell and an unhinged fellow student who hates our FMC. Why does he hate her? Doesn't matter, until it really does.
This novella is not long enough. This teaser of a story has all the elements to hook you including: magical systems, class politics, war colleges, grumpy/sunshine, fated mates, female rage and female friendships, touch her and die, spicy scenes, fluffy sidekicks and a FMC finding her power.
There are triggers including magical and physical violence, parental neglect and child abuse, death of a parent, poverty, bullying, language and in my opinion most importantly a giant CLIFFHANGER!!
This book had me on the edge of my seat and I can not wait for the next one.
This novella is not long enough. This teaser of a story has all the elements to hook you including: magical systems, class politics, war colleges, grumpy/sunshine, fated mates, female rage and female friendships, touch her and die, spicy scenes, fluffy sidekicks and a FMC finding her power.
There are triggers including magical and physical violence, parental neglect and child abuse, death of a parent, poverty, bullying, language and in my opinion most importantly a giant CLIFFHANGER!!
This book had me on the edge of my seat and I can not wait for the next one.
October 24, 2025
🌶️🌶️.5/5 spice (crazy victorian plot)
EDIT: opting to DNF series @ 2nd book. While I think the concept is interesting I cannot reread essentially the same things over and over with only some changes. I stand by my opinion on this first book. Perhaps I will circle back for the other books with time between them.. super cool concept.
Holy absolute hell what a completely unexpected ending that just devastated me. I write this as I bawl. This was a super neat little book I can’t remember how many pages, but it took a few dedicated hours to knock out. Very victorian era vibes especially with gothic touches in simple way. This author was very refreshing with the way they worded their descriptions. This was a super funny, quick, and interesting read. The characters, the word choices, the magic, and the politics were all interesting. Magic wasn’t a main focus, just something mentioned other than the 3rd lines which have pretty neat abilities for sure. Curious about hers now though….. on to the next!
EDIT: opting to DNF series @ 2nd book. While I think the concept is interesting I cannot reread essentially the same things over and over with only some changes. I stand by my opinion on this first book. Perhaps I will circle back for the other books with time between them.. super cool concept.
Holy absolute hell what a completely unexpected ending that just devastated me. I write this as I bawl. This was a super neat little book I can’t remember how many pages, but it took a few dedicated hours to knock out. Very victorian era vibes especially with gothic touches in simple way. This author was very refreshing with the way they worded their descriptions. This was a super funny, quick, and interesting read. The characters, the word choices, the magic, and the politics were all interesting. Magic wasn’t a main focus, just something mentioned other than the 3rd lines which have pretty neat abilities for sure. Curious about hers now though….. on to the next!
May 3, 2025
5⭐ 3🌶️
Welcome to Boellium War College where each of the lines sends conscripts to train in the art of war and keep the peace. Avalon is from the ninth line and her plan is to keep her head down for her two years but she soon fails when two of the most powerful people in the College and all of Ebrus can't hide their interest.
The ending of this was such a tease and I need more now. Grace has built such a rich world in a short amount of time, the story has such polar and intriguing characters, awesome animal companions, action, magic, tension, spice, humour and a good sprinkle of mystery and secrets.
I have read some of Graces other works and she manages to hit so many different tropes so well, I definitely recommend this book and can't wait for more to come.
Welcome to Boellium War College where each of the lines sends conscripts to train in the art of war and keep the peace. Avalon is from the ninth line and her plan is to keep her head down for her two years but she soon fails when two of the most powerful people in the College and all of Ebrus can't hide their interest.
The ending of this was such a tease and I need more now. Grace has built such a rich world in a short amount of time, the story has such polar and intriguing characters, awesome animal companions, action, magic, tension, spice, humour and a good sprinkle of mystery and secrets.
I have read some of Graces other works and she manages to hit so many different tropes so well, I definitely recommend this book and can't wait for more to come.
May 7, 2025
Thing Hunger Games meets magical abilities
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings:
- parental death off page
- Parental abuse/neglect off page
Tropes
- protective and loyal MMC
- touch her and die
- soul mates
Thing Hunger Games meets magical abilities
The growth of the relationship between FMC and one of the MMC is slowish but worth the wait! You learn quite a bit about them through this short novella! They are just made to be together! Between the magic, the tension, the small amount fighting/bickering, friendship, mystery and secrets Grace has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to read more on!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings:
- parental death off page
- Parental abuse/neglect off page
Tropes
- protective and loyal MMC
- touch her and die
- soul mates
Thing Hunger Games meets magical abilities
The growth of the relationship between FMC and one of the MMC is slowish but worth the wait! You learn quite a bit about them through this short novella! They are just made to be together! Between the magic, the tension, the small amount fighting/bickering, friendship, mystery and secrets Grace has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to read more on!
May 17, 2025
Ummmm…. What the heck!!!! Don’t leave me on such a cliff hanger!
Let it be known that this is only part of the book, a novella intro.
Avalon is our FMC - I hope we delve more into her with the next part, she’s strong willed and doesn’t seem to put up with hierarchy bull…. Except in her own house (but that is explainable)
Our 2 MMCs are from upper class. I think they are both good on the inside, but outwardly one more so.
Could we be looking at a RH situation in book 2???? Oh I hope so.
There are hounds and war cats that are like side kicks to one of the levels of hierarchy, which I absolutely LOVE!
Can’t wait to see what happens next
Let it be known that this is only part of the book, a novella intro.
Avalon is our FMC - I hope we delve more into her with the next part, she’s strong willed and doesn’t seem to put up with hierarchy bull…. Except in her own house (but that is explainable)
Our 2 MMCs are from upper class. I think they are both good on the inside, but outwardly one more so.
Could we be looking at a RH situation in book 2???? Oh I hope so.
There are hounds and war cats that are like side kicks to one of the levels of hierarchy, which I absolutely LOVE!
Can’t wait to see what happens next
August 10, 2025
Best Fantasy I’ve Read All Year
This book was so good! A pretty quick read, I could hardly put it down. The romance was great, and I love that the characters were not teens. The heroine was believable and snarky in the best way, with no silly flaws like clumsiness, as a defining characteristic. She made some interesting friends, and I wish we had spent a little more time with them. #TeamTwelfth And the ending!!!! Ahhhhhh! I can’t wait to read the next book. There was a cliffhanger, but not an annoying one. I’m excited to learn more about the world and how things work. Totally recommend this book to anyone who loves romantasy, fantasy in general, and actiony stories.
This book was so good! A pretty quick read, I could hardly put it down. The romance was great, and I love that the characters were not teens. The heroine was believable and snarky in the best way, with no silly flaws like clumsiness, as a defining characteristic. She made some interesting friends, and I wish we had spent a little more time with them. #TeamTwelfth And the ending!!!! Ahhhhhh! I can’t wait to read the next book. There was a cliffhanger, but not an annoying one. I’m excited to learn more about the world and how things work. Totally recommend this book to anyone who loves romantasy, fantasy in general, and actiony stories.
September 29, 2025
3 ⭐️ - read on KU. This is book 1 of a completed novella trilogy and I’ll be honest - I’m pleasantly surprised. It’s nothing crazy but it was entertaining and I think it earned its pages. This is less than 200 pages and I was thoroughly entertained. I think the 3 parts essentially make 1 full book but on KU they are divided as parts. The overall magic system and world are interesting and executed simply without needing 300 pages of world building. Hayle is definitely a favorite but I’m excited to see more of Vox. I am excited to see how the rest of the parts progress and where the story goes. I already downloaded part 2 lol
April 29, 2025
Was blessed to be an ARC reader for such an amazing author.
The only and i mean only reason its 4.5 not 5 is coz how short it was and how now i got to wait for the next book. the ending why it was getting soooo good, its like getting to the end of the best dessert you have ever had. just know im crying hard out.
Avalon Halhed is one hell of a badass and takes no crap from no one.
im thinking it will be mfm well hopefully hahaha.
.enemy to lovers
.virgin fmc
.her father hates her
.touch her die
The only and i mean only reason its 4.5 not 5 is coz how short it was and how now i got to wait for the next book. the ending why it was getting soooo good, its like getting to the end of the best dessert you have ever had. just know im crying hard out.
Avalon Halhed is one hell of a badass and takes no crap from no one.
im thinking it will be mfm well hopefully hahaha.
.enemy to lovers
.virgin fmc
.her father hates her
.touch her die
May 2, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book! I read it in one day. It flowed well, the world building was amazing, and the character development is actually spot on. The growing love story between Avalon and hayle is the best fairytale love story I have read to date, it made me cry happy tears. I'm also rooting for vox too I can definitely see a redemption character development coming. I am only sad that it was short and it's over. I will be waiting on the edge of my seat, hyperventilating for the next books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings:
- parental death off page
- Parental abuse/neglect off page
Tropes
- protective and loyal MMC
- touch her and die
- soul mates
Thing Hunger Games meets magical abilities
The growth of the relationship between FMC and one of the MMC is slowish but worth the wait! You learn quite a bit about them through this short novella! They are just made to be together! Between the magic, the tension, the small amount fighting/bickering, friendship, mystery and secrets Grace has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to read more on!
🌶️🌶️
Trigger warnings:
- parental death off page
- Parental abuse/neglect off page
Tropes
- protective and loyal MMC
- touch her and die
- soul mates
Thing Hunger Games meets magical abilities
The growth of the relationship between FMC and one of the MMC is slowish but worth the wait! You learn quite a bit about them through this short novella! They are just made to be together! Between the magic, the tension, the small amount fighting/bickering, friendship, mystery and secrets Grace has created an amazing world that I can’t wait to read more on!
September 13, 2025
That jump to the last chapter is chefs kiss
I love the world building and throughly enjoy the banter between the characters. I’m also obsessed with Avalon. I’m definitely moving on to the next book immediately. Especially after that last chapter! I literally stopped after three words in, muttered “WTF?!” like a deranged reader and flipped back to the previous pages trying to figured out WTH I missed. I am seriously invested in this world and I can’t wait to see which of my theories come out right. Very well deserved 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the world building and throughly enjoy the banter between the characters. I’m also obsessed with Avalon. I’m definitely moving on to the next book immediately. Especially after that last chapter! I literally stopped after three words in, muttered “WTF?!” like a deranged reader and flipped back to the previous pages trying to figured out WTH I missed. I am seriously invested in this world and I can’t wait to see which of my theories come out right. Very well deserved 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 28, 2025
I would rate this book close to a 3.75 stars. This book had fantastic worldbuilding and an intriguing fantasy setup. The story takes place in a world divided by a strict hierarchy of “lines,” where power and privilege decrease with each number. Avalon, the daughter of the Ninth Line’s leader, is sent as a tribute to a war college, setting the stage for political tension, danger, and romance.
The love triangle—one rooted in instant attraction and the other in an enemies-to-lovers dynamic—added drama, but the story often focused too heavily on sexual tension instead of building suspense or emotional depth. The pacing felt rushed at times, leaving some great ideas underexplored.
That said, the ending completely hooked me—the final twist was surprising and made me immediately want to pick up the next book. Overall, it’s a fun, fast-paced fantasy with rich worldbuilding, even if the execution could have been tighter.
The love triangle—one rooted in instant attraction and the other in an enemies-to-lovers dynamic—added drama, but the story often focused too heavily on sexual tension instead of building suspense or emotional depth. The pacing felt rushed at times, leaving some great ideas underexplored.
That said, the ending completely hooked me—the final twist was surprising and made me immediately want to pick up the next book. Overall, it’s a fun, fast-paced fantasy with rich worldbuilding, even if the execution could have been tighter.
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