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One Small Echo
Not yet published
Expected 12 Mar 26Something is wrong inside her.
It’s changing her.
She chased her loved ones into the dark, and they stumbled out with monsters beneath their skin. Now they are less than they were, but destined for so much more.
If they survive training.
And if her new commander doesn’t kill her first.
The boy-prince she saved as a child is now the unforgiving, terrifying man in charge of her future. They are bound in a way neither can escape: two forces as opposite as sunrise and shadow, drawn together as inevitably as the dawn collides with the sky.
But don’t misunderstand.
This is not a love story.
The king has already decided that she will be married to one of his other sons—regardless of her opinion on the matter.
So let this be a story of war instead.
She will wage war on the magic awakening beneath her skin. On the power-ravenous king who would do anything to control her. On the many hands that seek to mould her, shape her, and shackle her.
But most of all … she will wage war on him. Prince Chasin. Her commander. Her tormentor.
Let this story end with a dagger in his treacherous heart.
Let her carve his influence from her soul.
Let her make him suffer as she has suffered.
Let her have this one, small thing.
~~~
One Small Echo is Book 1 of 3 in the Shadowsong series. This lush, dark romantasy will have bonded monsters, forbidden attraction, deadly trials, royal intrigue, and a true, enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, all set in a brutally lavish, high-stakes world where darkness means death. Grab a blanket, turn on your nightlight, and get ready.
For what you fear is already here.
It’s changing her.
She chased her loved ones into the dark, and they stumbled out with monsters beneath their skin. Now they are less than they were, but destined for so much more.
If they survive training.
And if her new commander doesn’t kill her first.
The boy-prince she saved as a child is now the unforgiving, terrifying man in charge of her future. They are bound in a way neither can escape: two forces as opposite as sunrise and shadow, drawn together as inevitably as the dawn collides with the sky.
But don’t misunderstand.
This is not a love story.
The king has already decided that she will be married to one of his other sons—regardless of her opinion on the matter.
So let this be a story of war instead.
She will wage war on the magic awakening beneath her skin. On the power-ravenous king who would do anything to control her. On the many hands that seek to mould her, shape her, and shackle her.
But most of all … she will wage war on him. Prince Chasin. Her commander. Her tormentor.
Let this story end with a dagger in his treacherous heart.
Let her carve his influence from her soul.
Let her make him suffer as she has suffered.
Let her have this one, small thing.
~~~
One Small Echo is Book 1 of 3 in the Shadowsong series. This lush, dark romantasy will have bonded monsters, forbidden attraction, deadly trials, royal intrigue, and a true, enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, all set in a brutally lavish, high-stakes world where darkness means death. Grab a blanket, turn on your nightlight, and get ready.
For what you fear is already here.
466 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 12, 2026
18 people are currently reading
542 people want to read
About the author
Jane Washington
34 books4,626 followersJane is a Wall-Street Journal bestselling author who spends all her time writing books and then telling people not to read them.
Find her here: https://linktr.ee/janewashingtonbooks
Find her here: https://linktr.ee/janewashingtonbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Have you ever read a book that makes you want to re-read right after you finish it, cause you just can't let it go?
Review step 2:
...Words?
What I've loved
1 Snarky FMC meets potentially Tsundere Dark Prince-Commander while he’s trying to hold in his huge hungry beast. What could go wrong?
2 All the romantasy elements we love, but with a fresh, original perspective that never feels like warmed-up leftovers of other stories.
3 Cute monster on the run, makes a vicious power to be had. Psycho monsters everywhere in the dark. Candle, candle don't go out.
4 It flips the script on every overused trope. The found family? Already found. The perfect girl? A side character. The lead? A certified hot mess. You get an arranged marriage to the wrong guy and bonded monsters who view humans as gullible meat suits rather than friends.
It’s chaotic, and I love it.
Conclusions
You could argue that we’re left in the dark about the lore, the Godsguard, or how the rest of the realm actually functions. But here’s the thing: we’re following characters from a secluded valley with zero outside information. It makes perfect sense that we only know as much as they do.
I don’t see this as a lack of world-building; it’s a reflection of the protagonist’s reality. The "outside world" simply had no impact on her life until now.
This story is told from the inside out. When the book begins, the only world ending is the FMC’s. Her "apocalypse" is the discrimination and abuse her found family faces. These are stakes that feel painfully grounded in our own reality. I’m sure we’ll eventually find out the world is ending in a more "traditional" fantasy way, but for now, the stakes that hit closest to home are the ones that matter most.
Reverse "Bird Box" meets "Fourth Wing" meets "The Folk of the Air"'s Court of Shadows meets "GOT" and Alexis of "Blood of Hercules".
I feel like I want to throw all my other romantasy books in the fire after reading One Small Echo. Only their prettiness is saving them 👀
Warnings
Warning #1: The urge to immediately re-read is a common side effect.
Warning #2: Prepare snacks. Food descriptions are dangerously compelling, even when absurd.
Warning #3: High risk of flower-and-berry-related paranoia. Patients may find themselves obsessively scanning for hidden meanings.
The best thing about being an ARC reader is that you get the book before anyone else.
The worst thing about being an ARC reader is that if the book is like One Small Echo, you start waiting desperately for book 2 before book 1 is even out.
Review step 1:
Reading experience in GIFS
Pre-read
TBR change of plans! This naughty boy was sent to me before I expected! Aren't we all curious about it??
If I ever got another pet, I'd have to ask Jane for names.
After managing to name 11 main characters plus side characters in the Ironside series, she seems to have created a whole new set of pretty names for this series too!
Review step 2:
...Words?
What I've loved
1 Snarky FMC meets potentially Tsundere Dark Prince-Commander while he’s trying to hold in his huge hungry beast. What could go wrong?
2 All the romantasy elements we love, but with a fresh, original perspective that never feels like warmed-up leftovers of other stories.
3 Cute monster on the run, makes a vicious power to be had. Psycho monsters everywhere in the dark. Candle, candle don't go out.
4 It flips the script on every overused trope. The found family? Already found. The perfect girl? A side character. The lead? A certified hot mess. You get an arranged marriage to the wrong guy and bonded monsters who view humans as gullible meat suits rather than friends.
It’s chaotic, and I love it.
Conclusions
You could argue that we’re left in the dark about the lore, the Godsguard, or how the rest of the realm actually functions. But here’s the thing: we’re following characters from a secluded valley with zero outside information. It makes perfect sense that we only know as much as they do.
I don’t see this as a lack of world-building; it’s a reflection of the protagonist’s reality. The "outside world" simply had no impact on her life until now.
This story is told from the inside out. When the book begins, the only world ending is the FMC’s. Her "apocalypse" is the discrimination and abuse her found family faces. These are stakes that feel painfully grounded in our own reality. I’m sure we’ll eventually find out the world is ending in a more "traditional" fantasy way, but for now, the stakes that hit closest to home are the ones that matter most.
Reverse "Bird Box" meets "Fourth Wing" meets "The Folk of the Air"'s Court of Shadows meets "GOT" and Alexis of "Blood of Hercules".
I feel like I want to throw all my other romantasy books in the fire after reading One Small Echo. Only their prettiness is saving them 👀
Warnings
Warning #1: The urge to immediately re-read is a common side effect.
Warning #2: Prepare snacks. Food descriptions are dangerously compelling, even when absurd.
Warning #3: High risk of flower-and-berry-related paranoia. Patients may find themselves obsessively scanning for hidden meanings.
The best thing about being an ARC reader is that you get the book before anyone else.
The worst thing about being an ARC reader is that if the book is like One Small Echo, you start waiting desperately for book 2 before book 1 is even out.
Review step 1:
Reading experience in GIFS
Pre-read
TBR change of plans! This naughty boy was sent to me before I expected! Aren't we all curious about it??
If I ever got another pet, I'd have to ask Jane for names.
After managing to name 11 main characters plus side characters in the Ironside series, she seems to have created a whole new set of pretty names for this series too!
Review of advance copy received from Author
For fans of: The Irresistible Urge to Fall for Your Enemy, Alchemised, Blood of Hercules, The Knight and the Moth, To Bleed a Crystal Bloom, and Dire Bound
Why? One Small Echo has the lyrical prose of Rachel Gillig and Sarah A Parker, dry humor like Bartholomew, Alexis, or Onion Boy, and the violence and oppression and rage of Dire Bound and Alchemised ✨
Tropes:
❃ blind fmc + mute mmc
❃ slow-burn, steamy enemies to lovers
❃ royal court intrigue, arranged marriages, oops married the wrong brother, princess training
❃ bonded monsters, oops bonded with a baby monster, assassin training
❃ commander x recruit, grumpy x chaos/sunshine
❃ lgbtq+ rep, body horror, snark and sass, lovable ensemble cast
5 flippin stars
I think my favorite part about this book is that EIKO ISN'T EVEN MEANT TO BE THE MAIN CHARACTER. Her bestie Rion is. Beautiful, graceful, courageous Rion, who goes through all the major tropes a romantasy fmc would experience. By all means, Eiko should be the side character we see adding tame worldbuilding comments while we follow Rion's journey through the capital as she joins the golden Godsguard and captures the attention of the royal family.
But we don't follow Rion. We follow Eiko, who, despite not possessing main character polish, possesses main character energy. Not because she's particularly extraordinary, unless you count her extraordinary ability to do things "for the plot". She's a hot mess express, and the monster she bonds with only exacerbates this. Everything with Eiko just snowballs, and it's so fun to watch.
But it isn't all laughs and absurdity in Lyra. There are some very dark topics and scenes, and with it, the most comprehensively supportive supporting cast. These characters make the decision to stick with one another at the beginning of this book, and they truly do. You can see their love and acceptance of each other in every scene, and it's the most showing over telling I've seen of platonic relationships in ages. They're going to be so traumatized, and I just want to give them all a big hug.
I think we know who the mmc is going to be, but I'm loving the other two competitors and all the tension between Eiko and Chasin. Kind of obsessed with sign language against skin and with not knowing which traits of him are his own vs his monster's.
Other things I'm loving: wee baby Hymn, food, gems, old men with sticks, poison, and the way Jane made me want to immediately go back and reread the book for clues
Mind your triggers, mind the gap, and hop aboard this journey with me 🚂
I'll probably revise this review upon second read.
Why? One Small Echo has the lyrical prose of Rachel Gillig and Sarah A Parker, dry humor like Bartholomew, Alexis, or Onion Boy, and the violence and oppression and rage of Dire Bound and Alchemised ✨
Tropes:
❃ blind fmc + mute mmc
❃ slow-burn, steamy enemies to lovers
❃ royal court intrigue, arranged marriages, oops married the wrong brother, princess training
❃ bonded monsters, oops bonded with a baby monster, assassin training
❃ commander x recruit, grumpy x chaos/sunshine
❃ lgbtq+ rep, body horror, snark and sass, lovable ensemble cast
5 flippin stars
I think my favorite part about this book is that EIKO ISN'T EVEN MEANT TO BE THE MAIN CHARACTER. Her bestie Rion is. Beautiful, graceful, courageous Rion, who goes through all the major tropes a romantasy fmc would experience. By all means, Eiko should be the side character we see adding tame worldbuilding comments while we follow Rion's journey through the capital as she joins the golden Godsguard and captures the attention of the royal family.
But we don't follow Rion. We follow Eiko, who, despite not possessing main character polish, possesses main character energy. Not because she's particularly extraordinary, unless you count her extraordinary ability to do things "for the plot". She's a hot mess express, and the monster she bonds with only exacerbates this. Everything with Eiko just snowballs, and it's so fun to watch.
But it isn't all laughs and absurdity in Lyra. There are some very dark topics and scenes, and with it, the most comprehensively supportive supporting cast. These characters make the decision to stick with one another at the beginning of this book, and they truly do. You can see their love and acceptance of each other in every scene, and it's the most showing over telling I've seen of platonic relationships in ages. They're going to be so traumatized, and I just want to give them all a big hug.
I think we know who the mmc is going to be, but I'm loving the other two competitors and all the tension between Eiko and Chasin. Kind of obsessed with sign language against skin and with not knowing which traits of him are his own vs his monster's.
Other things I'm loving: wee baby Hymn, food, gems, old men with sticks, poison, and the way Jane made me want to immediately go back and reread the book for clues
Mind your triggers, mind the gap, and hop aboard this journey with me 🚂
I'll probably revise this review upon second read.
Want to read
June 27, 2025OMG YES WE WILL BE FED AFTER IRONSIDE😭😭 THANK YOU QUEEN
January 27, 2026
3.5 stars
One thing I can count on Jane delivering is a binge-worthy, good time book. I finished this in a day which is so rare for me lately, and I laughed out loud so much, which is exactly what I needed right now!
In regard to the romance, Jane is the absolute queen of slow-burn so I knew going in that the fmc and mmc were likely going to have very few interactions, and that was definitely the case, and I actually prefer it that way when it comes to the first book in a fantasy romance series. I’ll be honest, I still don’t really understand the immediate obsession and possessiveness of Chasin. I’m just not buying it. It just felt like zero to a hundred for me. But I’m hoping that gets explained more in the next books!
The star of the show for me was Eiko’s bonded monster, Hymndrake. Funny, cute, sweet, and just the perfect companion a person could have.
I know this is only the first book in a fantasy series, but I would’ve liked more information on what exactly the Godsguard soldiers do. Trained Assassin’s but why exactly? The king rules all the lands there is, so it’s not like they’re trained to kill overseas enemies. There wasn’t much information on this, and why they bond with these monsters from “The Quiet”, and how it was even discovered that they could. I just would’ve liked further elaboration on the actual lore, political and in regards to these monsters. I would’ve liked more world building as well, granted, this book was pretty short for a fantasy, but I’m assuming the world building will be fleshed out throughout the entire series.
All this to say, I still had a great time, and I already can’t wait for the next book. I always love the second books in Jane’s series so much more, and I know it won’t be any different in this case!
One thing I can count on Jane delivering is a binge-worthy, good time book. I finished this in a day which is so rare for me lately, and I laughed out loud so much, which is exactly what I needed right now!
In regard to the romance, Jane is the absolute queen of slow-burn so I knew going in that the fmc and mmc were likely going to have very few interactions, and that was definitely the case, and I actually prefer it that way when it comes to the first book in a fantasy romance series. I’ll be honest, I still don’t really understand the immediate obsession and possessiveness of Chasin. I’m just not buying it. It just felt like zero to a hundred for me. But I’m hoping that gets explained more in the next books!
The star of the show for me was Eiko’s bonded monster, Hymndrake. Funny, cute, sweet, and just the perfect companion a person could have.
I know this is only the first book in a fantasy series, but I would’ve liked more information on what exactly the Godsguard soldiers do. Trained Assassin’s but why exactly? The king rules all the lands there is, so it’s not like they’re trained to kill overseas enemies. There wasn’t much information on this, and why they bond with these monsters from “The Quiet”, and how it was even discovered that they could. I just would’ve liked further elaboration on the actual lore, political and in regards to these monsters. I would’ve liked more world building as well, granted, this book was pretty short for a fantasy, but I’m assuming the world building will be fleshed out throughout the entire series.
All this to say, I still had a great time, and I already can’t wait for the next book. I always love the second books in Jane’s series so much more, and I know it won’t be any different in this case!
Want to read
June 27, 2025as a HUGEEEE ironside fan, i will be reading anything jane puts out in the future 🙂↕️🙂↕️ sat and waiting for feb 2026
Want to read
July 2, 2025Jane Washington I owe you my LIFE after Ironside!!
Want to read
August 13, 2025Low key becoming my most anticipated read of 2026 😅
Want to read
November 14, 2025I will read anything Jane writes
January 26, 2026
Jane Washington always builds really immersive worlds. She thinks of every little detail. Honestly, she even knows how absolutely devastated readers are after reading her books because we have to wait for the next one. It's torture, and I think she revels in it. My tears will happily fuel her though because I think this is her best work yet.
One Small Echo follows Eiko, a resilient FMC, who lost her vision at 10 years old. She didn't lose her sass though. When she unexpectedly finds herself sharing her body with a demon, things really get wild. Eiko's commander - the boy she sacrificed her eyesight for - is mute, so difficulty in communication is even more of a challenge.
The language is so descriptive. You will feel everything from happiness and excitement to fear and despair. You'll also feel hunger because I think somewhere along the line Jane missed her calling to be a food critic.
I loved all the banter, sarcasm, and denial. I loved the characters and the plot. I do not have adequate words to describe how much I loved this whole dang book.
There's quite a bit of found family: between her two best friends (Rion and Ky) and her brother's best friend (Ren), Eiko has surrounded herself with loved ones.
Thank you Jane Washington for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
One Small Echo follows Eiko, a resilient FMC, who lost her vision at 10 years old. She didn't lose her sass though. When she unexpectedly finds herself sharing her body with a demon, things really get wild. Eiko's commander - the boy she sacrificed her eyesight for - is mute, so difficulty in communication is even more of a challenge.
The language is so descriptive. You will feel everything from happiness and excitement to fear and despair. You'll also feel hunger because I think somewhere along the line Jane missed her calling to be a food critic.
I loved all the banter, sarcasm, and denial. I loved the characters and the plot. I do not have adequate words to describe how much I loved this whole dang book.
There's quite a bit of found family: between her two best friends (Rion and Ky) and her brother's best friend (Ren), Eiko has surrounded herself with loved ones.
Thank you Jane Washington for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Autorin bzw. Autor
My god, I really liked this book! I've read it in less than a day, because I couldn't put it down. The only thing I don't like is that I have to wait for the next books in the series. I can't wait to read them.
I like how disability and LGBTQ get a platform here, but unlike many other books and films it doesn't feel forced. It flows just naturally into the storyline.
I can't begin to guess where Jane is going with this series and I LOVE that. I've read so many books that the storylines often kinda merge and usually I can foresee what's happening from miles away. But never with Jane's books. I can't foresee that!
I will not write down anything regarding the storyline or the characters here, as I don't want to spoiler you. You will just have to see (read) for yourselves!
Just so much: we are in January and I know this series is going to be one of my highlights of the year.
I like how disability and LGBTQ get a platform here, but unlike many other books and films it doesn't feel forced. It flows just naturally into the storyline.
I can't begin to guess where Jane is going with this series and I LOVE that. I've read so many books that the storylines often kinda merge and usually I can foresee what's happening from miles away. But never with Jane's books. I can't foresee that!
I will not write down anything regarding the storyline or the characters here, as I don't want to spoiler you. You will just have to see (read) for yourselves!
Just so much: we are in January and I know this series is going to be one of my highlights of the year.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Brutal, dark, and unbelievably addictive. This new series from Jane Washington will take you hostage as it overpowers your imagination and rips your heart to shreds.
Waiting for the next bad thing to happen I found that I was equal parts horrified and mesmerized by the dangerous setting. We need things... desperately to happen in the future books. Stabby, poisonous things, because a revenge arc is the sweetest of all.
With a heroine who's so very unheroine like, she's clumsy, uses humor as a defense, makes the worst of decisions. Eiko's so very human like, she's brilliantly relatable, and that draws you in. Of course, she's the best heroine even if this tale would've been unputdownable from any of the friend group's points of view. While Eiko isn't the most beautiful one, the wittiest, the strongest, I think she's the bravest and most resilient one of the bunch. What's not to love? JW excells at taking damaged heroines and making them weave their way into your heart, making their pain your own, and leaving a lasting impression that won't leave your memory.
If the idea of bonded monsters, enemies to lovers romance, a world bleeding with peril, and ride or die friends piques your interest, this is for you!
Waiting for the next bad thing to happen I found that I was equal parts horrified and mesmerized by the dangerous setting. We need things... desperately to happen in the future books. Stabby, poisonous things, because a revenge arc is the sweetest of all.
With a heroine who's so very unheroine like, she's clumsy, uses humor as a defense, makes the worst of decisions. Eiko's so very human like, she's brilliantly relatable, and that draws you in. Of course, she's the best heroine even if this tale would've been unputdownable from any of the friend group's points of view. While Eiko isn't the most beautiful one, the wittiest, the strongest, I think she's the bravest and most resilient one of the bunch. What's not to love? JW excells at taking damaged heroines and making them weave their way into your heart, making their pain your own, and leaving a lasting impression that won't leave your memory.
If the idea of bonded monsters, enemies to lovers romance, a world bleeding with peril, and ride or die friends piques your interest, this is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
if you loved Jane's Tempest series, this one is for you!!!
Eiko is stubborn, feisty and caring. she stumbles... literally stumbles into the deep end of danger with all her friends. The slow burn between the multitude of suitors gives readers anticipation on who she chooses. Hymn is honestly the cutest sidekick Jane could have written.
This is going to be the next romantasy favorite from Jane!!
Eiko is stubborn, feisty and caring. she stumbles... literally stumbles into the deep end of danger with all her friends. The slow burn between the multitude of suitors gives readers anticipation on who she chooses. Hymn is honestly the cutest sidekick Jane could have written.
This is going to be the next romantasy favorite from Jane!!
Read
June 28, 2025I’m sat
January 31, 2026
This book would be great for fans of One Dark Window. I just feel like it has such similar vibes and it has a monster creature that you will fall in love with, just like The Nightmare. I will also liken this book to Blood of Hercules, only in the humor aspect being very dry and sarcastic.
Jane Washington is the queen of slow burn and world development. She is also the Queen of Why Choose but this one is M/F so, for those of you who aren't a fan of RH you may rejoice and dive into the beauty that is JW books!
Tropes:
* blind FMC + mute MMC
* slow-burn tension
* Arranged Marriage to the Wrong Brother
* Assassin Training / Princess Training
* Banter and Sarcastic Humor
5 stars is not enough to give this book. This book gets ALL of the stars... seriously. Infinity of stars.
I loved that Jane smashed the status-quo window with our FMC. She is the most side-character main character that I have ever seen. She is the one that is clumsy, chaotic, sarcastic and overlooked the majority of the time. She pales in comparison to her best friend, Rion, who attracts all the attention. She felt more relatable as she wasn't "the girl next door". Not only does she break down the barriers of being Blind, she is food driven and ... girl, same. She bonds with a weak monster and has to struggle with the limitations that brings in a world that values power and strength.
The Found Family is the best that I have read in a long time. The characters really rely on and support each other throughout the story. They choose each other, time and time again, and you can feel the love they have for one-another just pouring off the page. It was so beautiful to read and I can not wait to see how the next book treats our rag-tag group, especially with the cliffhanger and what happened right before.
I think my favorite part of the story though is the humor. The way the author handled Blind Jokes, most of them coming from Eiko herself, had me laughing so hard. She is so chaotic and sarcastic and I just fell in love with her in the first chapter of the book and not once did my thoughts waver or change. Her exchanges with Hymn were some of my favorite!
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts.
Jane Washington is the queen of slow burn and world development. She is also the Queen of Why Choose but this one is M/F so, for those of you who aren't a fan of RH you may rejoice and dive into the beauty that is JW books!
Tropes:
* blind FMC + mute MMC
* slow-burn tension
* Arranged Marriage to the Wrong Brother
* Assassin Training / Princess Training
* Banter and Sarcastic Humor
5 stars is not enough to give this book. This book gets ALL of the stars... seriously. Infinity of stars.
I loved that Jane smashed the status-quo window with our FMC. She is the most side-character main character that I have ever seen. She is the one that is clumsy, chaotic, sarcastic and overlooked the majority of the time. She pales in comparison to her best friend, Rion, who attracts all the attention. She felt more relatable as she wasn't "the girl next door". Not only does she break down the barriers of being Blind, she is food driven and ... girl, same. She bonds with a weak monster and has to struggle with the limitations that brings in a world that values power and strength.
The Found Family is the best that I have read in a long time. The characters really rely on and support each other throughout the story. They choose each other, time and time again, and you can feel the love they have for one-another just pouring off the page. It was so beautiful to read and I can not wait to see how the next book treats our rag-tag group, especially with the cliffhanger and what happened right before.
I think my favorite part of the story though is the humor. The way the author handled Blind Jokes, most of them coming from Eiko herself, had me laughing so hard. She is so chaotic and sarcastic and I just fell in love with her in the first chapter of the book and not once did my thoughts waver or change. Her exchanges with Hymn were some of my favorite!
Thank you to the author for a free copy of this book in exchange for my thoughts.
January 31, 2026
I went into this book with full intentions of being a responsible adult.
I was supposed to work and study.
Instead, this turned into toilet breaks at work where I was very obviously reading on my Kindle app. Then it escalated into me reading during meetings I should have been paying attention to. Probably. Most likely. We will not delve into it.
After work, I was again supposed to study. Cause you know. My job depends on passing this exam.
That also did not happen.
Somewhere between I’ll just read a bit and what do you mean it’s 1am, I was emotionally wrecked, internally screaming, and genuinely offended that the book ended when it did because I needed more immediately.
The start is phenomenal. No slow build, no patience required. It grabs you straight away and quietly ruins your day by making you think about it constantly instead of doing literally anything you’re meant to be doing.
Now. Eiko.
Eiko is blind, sarcastic, chaotic, and absolutely does not operate based on logic. She misses things she shouldn’t, ignores things she absolutely should not ignore, and makes decisions that had me staring at the page like: girl… be serious — while fully knowing I would do the exact same thing. She is messy, funny, and unintentionally unhinged. I felt seen. I felt represented. She is my spirit animal.
And then there’s Chasin.
Mute. Mostly.
One big ars***.
There is no banter — and that’s what makes it even better. He doesn’t push her buttons with words. He does it with presence, silence, timing, and very deliberate choices. Every interaction feels loaded. Every moment is intentional. He is infuriating in a quiet, calculated way that makes you want to scream and keep reading at the same time.
And listen — Hymn.
I love Hymn.
I want my own little monster. Immediately. No notes. No questions. Just yes.
The dynamic in this book is tense in a way that creeps up on you. It’s not loud. It’s not dramatic. It’s constant. And it works dangerously well.
This is an incredible start to a highly addictive series. The kind of book that sneaks into your workday, sabotages your study plans, emotionally compromises you at 1am, and leaves you staring at the ceiling thinking how am I supposed to function now.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely.
Did it ruin my productivity and study time?
Yes.
Do I regret it?
Not even slightly.
I need the next book.
And my own little monster.
I was supposed to work and study.
Instead, this turned into toilet breaks at work where I was very obviously reading on my Kindle app. Then it escalated into me reading during meetings I should have been paying attention to. Probably. Most likely. We will not delve into it.
After work, I was again supposed to study. Cause you know. My job depends on passing this exam.
That also did not happen.
Somewhere between I’ll just read a bit and what do you mean it’s 1am, I was emotionally wrecked, internally screaming, and genuinely offended that the book ended when it did because I needed more immediately.
The start is phenomenal. No slow build, no patience required. It grabs you straight away and quietly ruins your day by making you think about it constantly instead of doing literally anything you’re meant to be doing.
Now. Eiko.
Eiko is blind, sarcastic, chaotic, and absolutely does not operate based on logic. She misses things she shouldn’t, ignores things she absolutely should not ignore, and makes decisions that had me staring at the page like: girl… be serious — while fully knowing I would do the exact same thing. She is messy, funny, and unintentionally unhinged. I felt seen. I felt represented. She is my spirit animal.
And then there’s Chasin.
Mute. Mostly.
One big ars***.
There is no banter — and that’s what makes it even better. He doesn’t push her buttons with words. He does it with presence, silence, timing, and very deliberate choices. Every interaction feels loaded. Every moment is intentional. He is infuriating in a quiet, calculated way that makes you want to scream and keep reading at the same time.
And listen — Hymn.
I love Hymn.
I want my own little monster. Immediately. No notes. No questions. Just yes.
The dynamic in this book is tense in a way that creeps up on you. It’s not loud. It’s not dramatic. It’s constant. And it works dangerously well.
This is an incredible start to a highly addictive series. The kind of book that sneaks into your workday, sabotages your study plans, emotionally compromises you at 1am, and leaves you staring at the ceiling thinking how am I supposed to function now.
Would I recommend it?
Absolutely.
Did it ruin my productivity and study time?
Yes.
Do I regret it?
Not even slightly.
I need the next book.
And my own little monster.
wishlist
November 13, 2025more jane washington? hell yeah. sad it’s not an rh but blind fmc x mute mmc? i’m sat.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Is it too early to declare best book of the year? Upon finishing this book, I was overcome with an immense feeling of giddy excitement. For what I just read, for the characters, the plot, and for what's to come.
One Small Echo introduces you to characters that will have you invested pretty early on. I definitely went from laughing to crying all in one chapter. This one will get you in the feels for sure.
I adore the FMC, Eiko, so much, and her support system of friends are an absolute bonus. As for the MMC, there is something about the way Jane writes possessive, obsessed, and unhinged men. Like omg, the tension and yearning keeps this slow burn romance sizzling. I can't wait to see how this progresses in the next book.
Overall, I loved the play on monsters in this and how they are portrayed in this world. Also, Eiko's arc from being so vulnerable in the beginning to becoming such a strong lead was amazing to read. After that shocking ending, I cannot wait to see what Eiko's going to become next. I may have just unlocked my newest obsession and I'm sure I've discovered another top tier series by this author.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩
🗡Arranged Marriage (oh this adds such a layer to the story)
🗡Disability and LGBTQ rep (loved this!)
🗡 A very bad villian (so there's this one guy... that I loathe)
🗡Thee very best friends anyone could have (the mom in me was very worried for them)
🗡A tiny baby monster that may not be such a tiny baby monster (it's still a mystery)
🖤
One Small Echo introduces you to characters that will have you invested pretty early on. I definitely went from laughing to crying all in one chapter. This one will get you in the feels for sure.
I adore the FMC, Eiko, so much, and her support system of friends are an absolute bonus. As for the MMC, there is something about the way Jane writes possessive, obsessed, and unhinged men. Like omg, the tension and yearning keeps this slow burn romance sizzling. I can't wait to see how this progresses in the next book.
Overall, I loved the play on monsters in this and how they are portrayed in this world. Also, Eiko's arc from being so vulnerable in the beginning to becoming such a strong lead was amazing to read. After that shocking ending, I cannot wait to see what Eiko's going to become next. I may have just unlocked my newest obsession and I'm sure I've discovered another top tier series by this author.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩
🗡Arranged Marriage (oh this adds such a layer to the story)
🗡Disability and LGBTQ rep (loved this!)
🗡 A very bad villian (so there's this one guy... that I loathe)
🗡Thee very best friends anyone could have (the mom in me was very worried for them)
🗡A tiny baby monster that may not be such a tiny baby monster (it's still a mystery)
🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is an ARC review
Eiko's list of priorities
1) Get revenge - see revenge list (Hymn has it)
2) Protect her friends
3) Find (hoard) gemstones
4) Eat another tray of cream puffs
5) And find the coffee
6) Who was Kira?
7) Probably ask Hymn about his power
8) Talk to Ren
Jane Washington has sucked me into another world and forced me to sign "I. Belong. To. You." from my knees as I beg for the second book. She has given us a new dark, twisted world (and a scrappy group of main characters) that will dig its claws into your mind and whisper that it be everything you ever wanted and more.
Read on for spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Our FMC, Eiko, is bold, reckless, and blind, but that doesn't stop her from doing anything much to the chagrin of her friends and her brother. She uses sarcasm and humor as a shield, while presenting the world with a bravery that is as real as a shield and yet also as fragile as glass. My favorite thing about her? She bonded a baby (he's 100) dragon monster, and has a penchant for revenge and a fascination with poison (can I say how much I LOVE this? I've been REALLY into the apothecary/poisoning FMC vibes in books lately). Our story mainly explores, from the get-go, her loyalty to her friend group, which leads the group of 5, I mean 6, because we should probably count Kira, throwing themselves into a dark, foreboding train car to flee the persecution of said friends. Eiko is thoroughly reckless in everything she does, but this could be the most reckless yet. The plan had been to refuse to Silence the monsters, survive together, and become servants in this new city. The group finds themselves one-by-one Silencing in sacrifice for each other, except Eiko, who took pity on the tiny voice begging her to save him. Now the rest of them have monsters crawling under their skin, whispering of murder and mayhem in their ears, but maybe they should be more worried about the 'gentle one' lurking under Eiko's skin. Eiko and her friends, bye Kira, only have 2 options now: die when the monsters tear free from their skin OR control the monster within and survive in the elite Godsguard. Who wanted a peaceful life in the mountains, dreaming of gold and princes anyway?
-Snarky FMC inner dialogue is PEAK
-Invisible tiny dragon companion (sold)
-Who is the main love interest? You've got your pick of princes and brother's best friend
-Training (see alt meaning: torture)
-Blind FMC/Mute MMC
-Friendship and Sacrifice theme
-Scheming kings
-Flower Love Language
Eiko's list of priorities
1) Get revenge - see revenge list (Hymn has it)
2) Protect her friends
3) Find (hoard) gemstones
4) Eat another tray of cream puffs
5) And find the coffee
6) Who was Kira?
7) Probably ask Hymn about his power
8) Talk to Ren
Jane Washington has sucked me into another world and forced me to sign "I. Belong. To. You." from my knees as I beg for the second book. She has given us a new dark, twisted world (and a scrappy group of main characters) that will dig its claws into your mind and whisper that it be everything you ever wanted and more.
Read on for spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Our FMC, Eiko, is bold, reckless, and blind, but that doesn't stop her from doing anything much to the chagrin of her friends and her brother. She uses sarcasm and humor as a shield, while presenting the world with a bravery that is as real as a shield and yet also as fragile as glass. My favorite thing about her? She bonded a baby (he's 100) dragon monster, and has a penchant for revenge and a fascination with poison (can I say how much I LOVE this? I've been REALLY into the apothecary/poisoning FMC vibes in books lately). Our story mainly explores, from the get-go, her loyalty to her friend group, which leads the group of 5, I mean 6, because we should probably count Kira, throwing themselves into a dark, foreboding train car to flee the persecution of said friends. Eiko is thoroughly reckless in everything she does, but this could be the most reckless yet. The plan had been to refuse to Silence the monsters, survive together, and become servants in this new city. The group finds themselves one-by-one Silencing in sacrifice for each other, except Eiko, who took pity on the tiny voice begging her to save him. Now the rest of them have monsters crawling under their skin, whispering of murder and mayhem in their ears, but maybe they should be more worried about the 'gentle one' lurking under Eiko's skin. Eiko and her friends, bye Kira, only have 2 options now: die when the monsters tear free from their skin OR control the monster within and survive in the elite Godsguard. Who wanted a peaceful life in the mountains, dreaming of gold and princes anyway?
-Snarky FMC inner dialogue is PEAK
-Invisible tiny dragon companion (sold)
-Who is the main love interest? You've got your pick of princes and brother's best friend
-Training (see alt meaning: torture)
-Blind FMC/Mute MMC
-Friendship and Sacrifice theme
-Scheming kings
-Flower Love Language
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
An ARC from Netgalley
Brilliant 👏 Humans take in and try to contain monsters, in return they receive power! But will they be able to contain and control the monsters? What type of monster is it?
I love Eiko, what an amazing character! She's full of strength and so witty too!
Then we have Chasin Goldmoor her commander, and wow isnt he dark and delicious!!
I can't wait to read more!!
Brilliant 👏 Humans take in and try to contain monsters, in return they receive power! But will they be able to contain and control the monsters? What type of monster is it?
I love Eiko, what an amazing character! She's full of strength and so witty too!
Then we have Chasin Goldmoor her commander, and wow isnt he dark and delicious!!
I can't wait to read more!!
February 11, 2026
5⭐️ I DEVOURED THIS!!!!! This gave me everything I needed, good plot, banter, training, monsters and a dark brooding male? Yes please, I ate this up and left no crumbs. Please give me book 2 ASAP 🤤
Review of advance copy
I've had time to digest now and I still have no witty remarks about this book. I'm not a writer, I'm a reader, an avid reader and I loved every word of this book. I became totally immersed in this new magical world. I immediately wanted to reread it as soon as I had finished because I just wasn't ready to be done with it. I can't wait to see what the next book holds.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It began with a single act of bravery in a forbidden cave (or foolishness, if her grandma had anything to say about it), a family she would risk everything for (even if that meant boarding an unknown future), and culminated in a harrowing escape that left her forever changed (though whether for better or worse remains to be seen). Now, thrust into a gilded world where the most dangerous creatures wear civilized smiles, she must learn its rules while managing a new, permanent, and deeply inconvenient bond.
Jane Washington's One Small Echo is a stellar introduction to a dark and gripping new fantasy series, one that expertly sustains a riveting pace from its first page to its last. Washington doesn’t just build a world—she makes you feel its glittering edges and hidden thorns. I found myself holding my breath more than once, not from action, but from the sheer tension of a charged silence or a truth conveyed without spoken words. The novel is a tour de force of escalating tension, moving seamlessly from a brutal, desperate struggle for survival to the Machiavellian game of a royal court. Here, the most dangerous threats wear crowns and wield power with a lethally refined grace. Each stage of the journey deepens both the protagonist’s personal stakes and the reader’s investment, delivering on an immense premise with ruthless precision.
The story excels in its all-consuming, dual-front war. The protagonist’s most immediate battle is against a monstrous awakening within, as she contends with strange new hungers and violent fantasies that threaten her very sense of self. But the narrative’s most electric tension comes from her choking collision with the man whose very presence is a threat, and whose absence becomes an obsession. Their dynamic is a perfect, painful alchemy of fraught attraction and simmering hatred. The push-and-pull of devastating, secret gentleness against outright cruelty is rendered with a razor-sharp, addictive accuracy—a quality best exemplified in a few breathtaking scenes where communication becomes so tactile and intimate it left me reeling. It’s this inventive depth that will have readers utterly captivated. The complex bond she bears is a profound scar from her journey to freedom, yet it is crucially not the tie that binds her to this man—their connection is something far more volatile and visceral.
One Small Echo is a masterful first act. It conjures a magnificent world, establishes a deliciously tense romantic dynamic, and charts a defining personal transformation for the heroine. The powerful pivot point comes with a shattering injustice that reframes her entire struggle. This isn’t yet a story of a weapon fully forged, but the thrilling, white-hot promise of one. The climax sets a devastating new purpose, with our heroine vowing retribution for her loved ones and beginning to understand how her unique burdens—the silent words pressed on her skin, her unwanted cravings, the truth of her own heart—could be the very arsenal she needs to shatter the crown that betrayed her.
5/5 stars. I finished this book in one sitting (6 hours and 37 minutes to be exact), and my only regret was that the sequel isn’t out yet. This is a brilliant and promising series opener. It delivers a perfect cocktail of immersive world-building, heart-wrenching personal stakes, and a slow-burn, hate-to-love romance that crackles with chemistry. While it ends on a note of fierce promise rather than total victory, the journey is so compelling and the characters so nuanced and authentic that I’m already mentally clearing my schedule for Book 2. Highly recommended for readers who love fantasy that is as emotionally ruthless as it is romantic, where character depth and political intrigue share the stage with a truly addictive, slow-burn dynamic.
Review over.
Ok now let me just completely geek out over my loves omfggggg!!
⚠️SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD⚠️
How [redacted] CAME UP WITH HER [REDACTED] IN [REDACTED] LANGUAGE?! And gifted a [redacted] on the [redacted] day to HIS [redacted]
…as if those weren’t the ultimate signs of OBSESSION UGHHHH *cough* chapter 21 🥀 *cough*
Also thoroughly enjoyed Eiko’s humor. And her conversations: internal, external, or otherwise.
Loved the (speaking on her skin). Loved the “I belong to you”. Loved the “MINE”.
And shoutout to that blood-red, barely blooming rose 👀
Jane Washington's One Small Echo is a stellar introduction to a dark and gripping new fantasy series, one that expertly sustains a riveting pace from its first page to its last. Washington doesn’t just build a world—she makes you feel its glittering edges and hidden thorns. I found myself holding my breath more than once, not from action, but from the sheer tension of a charged silence or a truth conveyed without spoken words. The novel is a tour de force of escalating tension, moving seamlessly from a brutal, desperate struggle for survival to the Machiavellian game of a royal court. Here, the most dangerous threats wear crowns and wield power with a lethally refined grace. Each stage of the journey deepens both the protagonist’s personal stakes and the reader’s investment, delivering on an immense premise with ruthless precision.
The story excels in its all-consuming, dual-front war. The protagonist’s most immediate battle is against a monstrous awakening within, as she contends with strange new hungers and violent fantasies that threaten her very sense of self. But the narrative’s most electric tension comes from her choking collision with the man whose very presence is a threat, and whose absence becomes an obsession. Their dynamic is a perfect, painful alchemy of fraught attraction and simmering hatred. The push-and-pull of devastating, secret gentleness against outright cruelty is rendered with a razor-sharp, addictive accuracy—a quality best exemplified in a few breathtaking scenes where communication becomes so tactile and intimate it left me reeling. It’s this inventive depth that will have readers utterly captivated. The complex bond she bears is a profound scar from her journey to freedom, yet it is crucially not the tie that binds her to this man—their connection is something far more volatile and visceral.
One Small Echo is a masterful first act. It conjures a magnificent world, establishes a deliciously tense romantic dynamic, and charts a defining personal transformation for the heroine. The powerful pivot point comes with a shattering injustice that reframes her entire struggle. This isn’t yet a story of a weapon fully forged, but the thrilling, white-hot promise of one. The climax sets a devastating new purpose, with our heroine vowing retribution for her loved ones and beginning to understand how her unique burdens—the silent words pressed on her skin, her unwanted cravings, the truth of her own heart—could be the very arsenal she needs to shatter the crown that betrayed her.
5/5 stars. I finished this book in one sitting (6 hours and 37 minutes to be exact), and my only regret was that the sequel isn’t out yet. This is a brilliant and promising series opener. It delivers a perfect cocktail of immersive world-building, heart-wrenching personal stakes, and a slow-burn, hate-to-love romance that crackles with chemistry. While it ends on a note of fierce promise rather than total victory, the journey is so compelling and the characters so nuanced and authentic that I’m already mentally clearing my schedule for Book 2. Highly recommended for readers who love fantasy that is as emotionally ruthless as it is romantic, where character depth and political intrigue share the stage with a truly addictive, slow-burn dynamic.
Review over.
Ok now let me just completely geek out over my loves omfggggg!!
⚠️SLIGHT SPOILERS AHEAD⚠️
How [redacted] CAME UP WITH HER [REDACTED] IN [REDACTED] LANGUAGE?! And gifted a [redacted] on the [redacted] day to HIS [redacted]
…as if those weren’t the ultimate signs of OBSESSION UGHHHH *cough* chapter 21 🥀 *cough*
Also thoroughly enjoyed Eiko’s humor. And her conversations: internal, external, or otherwise.
Loved the (speaking on her skin). Loved the “I belong to you”. Loved the “MINE”.
And shoutout to that blood-red, barely blooming rose 👀
Read
February 6, 2026Wow! I love this book, my favourite book so far (though each and every new book Jane Washington writes is my new favourite until I get my hands on the next!)
I love the premises of this world. It feels so different to our own. The world building is very vivid and clear and set in almost middle ages and yet not as it has a supernatural twist. I can tell the author has really thought through with this world and has made it intricate with all the details. For example, we have a detailed map at the beginning with all the names of different parts of the kingdom and a music playlist.
I love the characters especially the main character Eiko, from the start we are introduced to her head strong, kind, and badass character. I like that she isn't the prettiest girl as that makes her more relatable (though her best friend is and she’s awesome.) As someone who has a family member who is blind, it is so nice to read of a disabled character especially in a way that doesn't make us feel sorry for the main character, or it’s some type of disabled trope that is there for the sake of it. I can tell Jane Washington has really tried to put herself into a blind person shoes when writting Eiko. With Eiko we can "see" things from her point of view and alongside it her trial and tribulations while being blind, but also not having it completely define her. It's great that other things have been shown like some peoples ableism and attitudes towards her disability; like the King not wanting her to use her cane. I also like the fact the main male character, The Commander/third Prince, is also disabled in being mute and that Jane Washington has incorporated a type of sign language into it that just appears to be natural with everyone learning his language to communicate. This shows the difference where people can adapt to some disabilities depending on who they are and what their disablities are, meanwhile, not so much with others. I think it is good to have two powerful people who are strong and disabled showcasing that having needs doesn't make you weak, but all the more strong for it. I also like the close friends/family already established that Eiko has how understanding of her and her disability but also how caring they are of of each other and their close bond. Jane Washington is a master of writing many in depth characters all at once and keeping tabs on them all in a way that feels natural and not rushed.
I like how this book has been setting up the premise of who's really evil and who isn't. Despite having monsters in the dark we are also see monsters in the daylight too. Like all great books, comes a bad guy to hate and the author has already started doing that spectacularly. I honestly can't wait to read the next book in this series. I found I was so glued to reading this I couldn't put the book down. I feel
sad that we have to wait all the way to November for the next precious gem of a book! Now I know how Eiko feels; the disappointment of having no gemstones at hand! I want my grubby little hands on the next installment NOW!
However, I understand perfection takes time and will wait with bated breath.
I love the premises of this world. It feels so different to our own. The world building is very vivid and clear and set in almost middle ages and yet not as it has a supernatural twist. I can tell the author has really thought through with this world and has made it intricate with all the details. For example, we have a detailed map at the beginning with all the names of different parts of the kingdom and a music playlist.
I love the characters especially the main character Eiko, from the start we are introduced to her head strong, kind, and badass character. I like that she isn't the prettiest girl as that makes her more relatable (though her best friend is and she’s awesome.) As someone who has a family member who is blind, it is so nice to read of a disabled character especially in a way that doesn't make us feel sorry for the main character, or it’s some type of disabled trope that is there for the sake of it. I can tell Jane Washington has really tried to put herself into a blind person shoes when writting Eiko. With Eiko we can "see" things from her point of view and alongside it her trial and tribulations while being blind, but also not having it completely define her. It's great that other things have been shown like some peoples ableism and attitudes towards her disability; like the King not wanting her to use her cane. I also like the fact the main male character, The Commander/third Prince, is also disabled in being mute and that Jane Washington has incorporated a type of sign language into it that just appears to be natural with everyone learning his language to communicate. This shows the difference where people can adapt to some disabilities depending on who they are and what their disablities are, meanwhile, not so much with others. I think it is good to have two powerful people who are strong and disabled showcasing that having needs doesn't make you weak, but all the more strong for it. I also like the close friends/family already established that Eiko has how understanding of her and her disability but also how caring they are of of each other and their close bond. Jane Washington is a master of writing many in depth characters all at once and keeping tabs on them all in a way that feels natural and not rushed.
I like how this book has been setting up the premise of who's really evil and who isn't. Despite having monsters in the dark we are also see monsters in the daylight too. Like all great books, comes a bad guy to hate and the author has already started doing that spectacularly. I honestly can't wait to read the next book in this series. I found I was so glued to reading this I couldn't put the book down. I feel
sad that we have to wait all the way to November for the next precious gem of a book! Now I know how Eiko feels; the disappointment of having no gemstones at hand! I want my grubby little hands on the next installment NOW!
However, I understand perfection takes time and will wait with bated breath.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
You know, the thing I love most about Jane’s writing is her female characters and Eiko claimed her seat on my mental throne the moment she stepped onto the page. I would follow her anywhere. The blind leading the blind. Let’s just hope our sweet little baby monster Hymn takes care of us in this fantastic new journey.
In her own funny, chaotic way, Eiko leads every scene she’s in. It’s no wonder she commands everyone’s attention, whether it’s her sweet brother trying to protect her or the thirsty, terrifying beasts who want to devour her in more ways than one.
Even though English isn’t my first language, Jane never fails to make me feel something close to home because of the familiarity in her writing. How would you communicate with someone if you couldn’t do it in the traditional way? Sometimes, when you like someone, you create something you think they might enjoy and one way to do that is through taste. You want them to savor every rich ingredient in what they eat. If you can’t use words, you make sounds they can recognize and identify. You learn their physical language. You show them images. There are so many ways to be understood.
When something is missing, we find a way to make it present. Humans never stop reaching for connection , we always want to be heard, even when we cannot speak. That’s why we have different ways to so be heard and that could be through food, music, paintings, books. Even in silence, we leave pieces of ourselves behind, hoping someone will feel them.
And I think that’s the core of this book: communication. We have a blind FMC and a mute MMC, and at first you wonder: how could these two ever communicate? It’s amazing to see the ways they find to connect each other.
This story makes us appreciate the other ways we connect through our senses: touch, smell, hearing, and taste. I would even say the most important one is sight 😜 Not only can Eiko’s sight make you blind, but yours as well. So pay attention to what you’re reading, because you’ll want to reread certain parts to catch the small flowers Jane carefully plants throughout her growing garden.
Throughout the book, we only know as much as Eiko allows us to see 😉 but it’s not as limiting as you might think. We meet multiple characters and discover a new world filled with romantasy elements that still feel fresh and original. The characters, the dynamics, and the storylines have so much potential, and I truly can’t wait to see how they develop.
And I think I’ve given enough flowers to our princess Eiko, so let’s move on to our terrifying commander: Chasin. At first, I wasn’t particularly interested in him, but oh God. That man may be mute, but not silent. He invades every thought and every space simply because he can. He is a prince, a commander, and impossibly large because it has to match the immensity of his aura.
The rest of the characters are just as compelling. I genuinely want to know more about them and see how these newbies (just like us) begin to find their footing in a world they’ve never been. Or will the shoes prove too big to fill?
Give me the next book nauwwwwrr!!! 😩
In her own funny, chaotic way, Eiko leads every scene she’s in. It’s no wonder she commands everyone’s attention, whether it’s her sweet brother trying to protect her or the thirsty, terrifying beasts who want to devour her in more ways than one.
Even though English isn’t my first language, Jane never fails to make me feel something close to home because of the familiarity in her writing. How would you communicate with someone if you couldn’t do it in the traditional way? Sometimes, when you like someone, you create something you think they might enjoy and one way to do that is through taste. You want them to savor every rich ingredient in what they eat. If you can’t use words, you make sounds they can recognize and identify. You learn their physical language. You show them images. There are so many ways to be understood.
When something is missing, we find a way to make it present. Humans never stop reaching for connection , we always want to be heard, even when we cannot speak. That’s why we have different ways to so be heard and that could be through food, music, paintings, books. Even in silence, we leave pieces of ourselves behind, hoping someone will feel them.
And I think that’s the core of this book: communication. We have a blind FMC and a mute MMC, and at first you wonder: how could these two ever communicate? It’s amazing to see the ways they find to connect each other.
This story makes us appreciate the other ways we connect through our senses: touch, smell, hearing, and taste. I would even say the most important one is sight 😜 Not only can Eiko’s sight make you blind, but yours as well. So pay attention to what you’re reading, because you’ll want to reread certain parts to catch the small flowers Jane carefully plants throughout her growing garden.
Throughout the book, we only know as much as Eiko allows us to see 😉 but it’s not as limiting as you might think. We meet multiple characters and discover a new world filled with romantasy elements that still feel fresh and original. The characters, the dynamics, and the storylines have so much potential, and I truly can’t wait to see how they develop.
And I think I’ve given enough flowers to our princess Eiko, so let’s move on to our terrifying commander: Chasin. At first, I wasn’t particularly interested in him, but oh God. That man may be mute, but not silent. He invades every thought and every space simply because he can. He is a prince, a commander, and impossibly large because it has to match the immensity of his aura.
The rest of the characters are just as compelling. I genuinely want to know more about them and see how these newbies (just like us) begin to find their footing in a world they’ve never been. Or will the shoes prove too big to fill?
Give me the next book nauwwwwrr!!! 😩
Review of advance copy received from Author
"𝑰 𝒅𝒊𝒅𝒏'𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒐𝒏𝒆," 𝒔𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒂𝒊𝒅. "𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈."
"𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒌."
"𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅. 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏'𝒔 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆. 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒆𝒂."
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒐𝒑 𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒔. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎."
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice" 🌶/5
Tropes:
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Romantasy
Royals
Arranged marriage
A grumpy, slightly psychotic mmc
Blind fmc
Cute little non scary monster
There is crack in this book. Is there something stronger than crack? If so it's also in this book. I binge read this so fast and now I'm spiralling because there's no more chapters and I don't know what to do with myself. Insert self inflicted book slump 😅💀
One Small Echo is an incredible romantasy story that follows Eiko, our stubborn fmc who so happens to be blind. Several events lead her and her friends (and brother) to jump on a scary train to leave behind their problems. The train ends with them having to face the Quiet. The quiet gives me the creeps. The dark is not safe for anyone as its full of monsters that invade your mind and destroy you. The only way to survive? The silencing. The silencing is where you take control of a monster and let it live inside you. But obviously there's always the chance the monster will break free and destroy you and everything around it. No biggie 😅🤷♀️
This book is full of twists and turns, the plot is one of the best I've read in a long time. The storyline is, in true Jane fashion, unique and life ruining. Eiko is a super relatable character. I love her witty banter, her comments, her inner monologue with Hymn. Jane has me slightly unhinged and wanting my own little monster to take over my body. Am i also now attracted to sign language? 😅👏😂🤷♀️
I have regrets about reading this book so fast, but at the same time I felt like I couldn't read it fast enough. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
Also a big thank you again to Jane for sending me this STUNNING pr package girl the book! I'm actually obsessed with all the little quotes and have they relate back to the book. One of my favourite pr packages to date 😍
"𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒃𝒆𝒅 𝒎𝒆. 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒂 𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒌."
"𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂 𝒔𝒕𝒖𝒑𝒊𝒅 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒅. 𝑹𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒃𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆 𝒂 𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏'𝒔 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒆. 𝑰 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒂 𝒑𝒆𝒂."
"𝒀𝒐𝒖'𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒖𝒑𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒄𝒐𝒐𝒑 𝒑𝒆𝒂𝒔. 𝑵𝒐𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒃 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎."
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice" 🌶/5
Tropes:
Slow burn
Enemies to lovers
Romantasy
Royals
Arranged marriage
A grumpy, slightly psychotic mmc
Blind fmc
Cute little non scary monster
There is crack in this book. Is there something stronger than crack? If so it's also in this book. I binge read this so fast and now I'm spiralling because there's no more chapters and I don't know what to do with myself. Insert self inflicted book slump 😅💀
One Small Echo is an incredible romantasy story that follows Eiko, our stubborn fmc who so happens to be blind. Several events lead her and her friends (and brother) to jump on a scary train to leave behind their problems. The train ends with them having to face the Quiet. The quiet gives me the creeps. The dark is not safe for anyone as its full of monsters that invade your mind and destroy you. The only way to survive? The silencing. The silencing is where you take control of a monster and let it live inside you. But obviously there's always the chance the monster will break free and destroy you and everything around it. No biggie 😅🤷♀️
This book is full of twists and turns, the plot is one of the best I've read in a long time. The storyline is, in true Jane fashion, unique and life ruining. Eiko is a super relatable character. I love her witty banter, her comments, her inner monologue with Hymn. Jane has me slightly unhinged and wanting my own little monster to take over my body. Am i also now attracted to sign language? 😅👏😂🤷♀️
I have regrets about reading this book so fast, but at the same time I felt like I couldn't read it fast enough. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!
Also a big thank you again to Jane for sending me this STUNNING pr package girl the book! I'm actually obsessed with all the little quotes and have they relate back to the book. One of my favourite pr packages to date 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
The first book in a Jane Washington series means we are going to spend a good bit finding our way in a new world with a brand new set of rules we need to learn to survive. This book is no different. Eiko teaches us this lesson in the very first chapter when childhood carelessness turned to foolish bravery and was then rewarded with a future shrouded in darkness when she is struck blind.
Eiko is quick-witted, smart-mouthed, and hard-headed. She is the perfectly imperfect center to a group of friends closer than family (but including her brother) who are forced to make a sudden choice that changes their lives forever. They make that decision together, vowing to protect one another whatever they may face. What they face – very quickly – is the Quiet. They all must find a way to evade and survive the monsters who live there or make a deal with a monster and serve as their bodily host to escape the Quiet in one piece.
The rest of the book teaches us about the world, the Godsguards and how they function, and monsters - supernatural and human. Eiko faces struggle after struggle as she comes to grips with what is happening in her bond with her itty-bitty, cutie-patootie, scaredy-cat, baby monster, Hymndrake. Things just can’t seem to go smoothly and Eiko doesn’t really take that calmly. Her friends and her trainer carry on the tradition of sarcasm, banter, and laughing when you should be crying.
We end Book One with something of a cliffhanger – but I wouldn’t rate it nearly as high on the trauma scale as we’ve been left dangling by Ms. Washington in the past. Eiko is forced to recognize that sometimes we fear the wrong kind of monsters in this life. She vows vengeance and makes an oath to one of her beloved friends – and now we wait 9 months to see what happens next. Buckle up, gang. It’s going to be a wild ride!
Eiko is quick-witted, smart-mouthed, and hard-headed. She is the perfectly imperfect center to a group of friends closer than family (but including her brother) who are forced to make a sudden choice that changes their lives forever. They make that decision together, vowing to protect one another whatever they may face. What they face – very quickly – is the Quiet. They all must find a way to evade and survive the monsters who live there or make a deal with a monster and serve as their bodily host to escape the Quiet in one piece.
The rest of the book teaches us about the world, the Godsguards and how they function, and monsters - supernatural and human. Eiko faces struggle after struggle as she comes to grips with what is happening in her bond with her itty-bitty, cutie-patootie, scaredy-cat, baby monster, Hymndrake. Things just can’t seem to go smoothly and Eiko doesn’t really take that calmly. Her friends and her trainer carry on the tradition of sarcasm, banter, and laughing when you should be crying.
We end Book One with something of a cliffhanger – but I wouldn’t rate it nearly as high on the trauma scale as we’ve been left dangling by Ms. Washington in the past. Eiko is forced to recognize that sometimes we fear the wrong kind of monsters in this life. She vows vengeance and makes an oath to one of her beloved friends – and now we wait 9 months to see what happens next. Buckle up, gang. It’s going to be a wild ride!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jane has done it again, folks! If you love anarchy more than chocolate, enjoy monsters of different varieties, vivid descriptions of food that will have you snacking constantly, and a main character who is living her best side character life, this one is definitely for you.
The characterization is brilliant. Just when I thought no one could ever top Isobel Carter, in trips Eiko Menai. She’s hilarious, she’s surrounded by hot friends (like seriously, so hot), she’s an assassin in training, she has her own monster, and she’s blind. Sort of. Mostly. Maybe? And Chasin Goldmoor is probably the biggest cinnamon roll wrapped up in the most alphahole armor (some would dispute the cinnamon roll claim but they would be wrong). And, just like with an actual cinnamon roll, I would love to stab him with a fork. Read and you’ll understand.
There is so much representation in this, from disabilities to LGBTQIA+, and I appreciate that we see the darker sides of how these characters are treated, because not everyone is accepting of these lovable characters. On that note, please mind the triggers, because there are some heavy topics in this one. There’s plenty of humour and sweet found family moments to balance out the bad.
What is so brilliant about Jane’s writing is the way she simultaneously builds such complex, unique worlds, and then just feeds you little crumbs that keep you begging for more. I still have so many questions about the how and the why things are the way they are in this society, and I’m happy for it because now I have something to think about (obsess) over until the sequel.
I am so excited to see where this journey takes the characters and us readers.
The characterization is brilliant. Just when I thought no one could ever top Isobel Carter, in trips Eiko Menai. She’s hilarious, she’s surrounded by hot friends (like seriously, so hot), she’s an assassin in training, she has her own monster, and she’s blind. Sort of. Mostly. Maybe? And Chasin Goldmoor is probably the biggest cinnamon roll wrapped up in the most alphahole armor (some would dispute the cinnamon roll claim but they would be wrong). And, just like with an actual cinnamon roll, I would love to stab him with a fork. Read and you’ll understand.
There is so much representation in this, from disabilities to LGBTQIA+, and I appreciate that we see the darker sides of how these characters are treated, because not everyone is accepting of these lovable characters. On that note, please mind the triggers, because there are some heavy topics in this one. There’s plenty of humour and sweet found family moments to balance out the bad.
What is so brilliant about Jane’s writing is the way she simultaneously builds such complex, unique worlds, and then just feeds you little crumbs that keep you begging for more. I still have so many questions about the how and the why things are the way they are in this society, and I’m happy for it because now I have something to think about (obsess) over until the sequel.
I am so excited to see where this journey takes the characters and us readers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐ 4.5 | 🌶️ 3
Jane Washington’s Ironside Academy is my all-time favorite series, so I had high expectations coming into One Small Echo. It did not disappoint. This addictive start to the Shadowsong series would appeal to Six of Crows fans, who are looking for something aged up and spicier. While it's an entirely unique story, it’s the only one I’ve read that achieves that same tight, loyal, selfless camaraderie of a lovable found family. The darkness of the plot is perfectly contrasted with fun, humorous banter.
Jane writes lovable, memorable characters, and Eiko is no exception. She is an irreverent, selfless, resilient Asian-coded FMC who is blind and copes with hardship via sarcastic quips. As a bi Asian American, I loved seeing this level of representation; it's rare to find a lead of East Asian descent in this genre, especially alongside a diverse, intersectional cast of brown, queer, and disabled characters.
For a book with a blind protagonist, the writing is rich in sensory detail. The descriptions of food made me hungry, but I was too absorbed in the story to pause reading.
This is a glacial slow burn of forbidden desire/loathing with palpable tension and chemistry between the swoon worthy MMC Chasin and Eiko. With a blind FMC and a mostly-mute MMC, there is a lot of communication via touch between them.
I cannot wait until November for the release of the sequel, One Twisted Hymn. I can already tell that Shadowsong is likely going to end up being another one of my favorite series.
This review is based on an ARC provided by Jane Washington via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Jane Washington’s Ironside Academy is my all-time favorite series, so I had high expectations coming into One Small Echo. It did not disappoint. This addictive start to the Shadowsong series would appeal to Six of Crows fans, who are looking for something aged up and spicier. While it's an entirely unique story, it’s the only one I’ve read that achieves that same tight, loyal, selfless camaraderie of a lovable found family. The darkness of the plot is perfectly contrasted with fun, humorous banter.
Jane writes lovable, memorable characters, and Eiko is no exception. She is an irreverent, selfless, resilient Asian-coded FMC who is blind and copes with hardship via sarcastic quips. As a bi Asian American, I loved seeing this level of representation; it's rare to find a lead of East Asian descent in this genre, especially alongside a diverse, intersectional cast of brown, queer, and disabled characters.
For a book with a blind protagonist, the writing is rich in sensory detail. The descriptions of food made me hungry, but I was too absorbed in the story to pause reading.
This is a glacial slow burn of forbidden desire/loathing with palpable tension and chemistry between the swoon worthy MMC Chasin and Eiko. With a blind FMC and a mostly-mute MMC, there is a lot of communication via touch between them.
I cannot wait until November for the release of the sequel, One Twisted Hymn. I can already tell that Shadowsong is likely going to end up being another one of my favorite series.
This review is based on an ARC provided by Jane Washington via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Jane’s marketing is unhinged in a way that ticks all my boxes. This book intrigued me from her very first post about it, and the first chapter alone was enough to snare me in. Dear Jane, I am absolutely obsessed with whatever goes on in your brain. Eiko is brave, loyal, and curious, with a side of reckless, which is right up my alley. Right from the start, I loved the bond she had with Ky, Rion, Kaito and Ren - it seems wonderful to be so loved by people who have your back with every step that you take.
I started this book based purely on Jane’s marketing, so I had no idea where this story was going at any given moment, which gives all of it an extra layer - the unpredictability was intense. Hymndrake is the most adorable cutie monster ever, even if he had some ✨delightful little baby urges to commit violence✨. As a disabled person, I’m also completely obsessed with the disability rep in this book; accessible flirting is so hot and sign language against skin had me swooning, and changing your walking pattern so your blind object of obsession hears you coming? Sweep me up. This magic system is so fucking cool as well, I love the concept of ‘maybe bonding with monsters, maybe dying’ turning into ‘maybe befriending your monster, maybe getting eaten’. The story is very fast-paced and ends on a typical JW-ending, so catch me begging for One Twisted Hymn from now on.
I started this book based purely on Jane’s marketing, so I had no idea where this story was going at any given moment, which gives all of it an extra layer - the unpredictability was intense. Hymndrake is the most adorable cutie monster ever, even if he had some ✨delightful little baby urges to commit violence✨. As a disabled person, I’m also completely obsessed with the disability rep in this book; accessible flirting is so hot and sign language against skin had me swooning, and changing your walking pattern so your blind object of obsession hears you coming? Sweep me up. This magic system is so fucking cool as well, I love the concept of ‘maybe bonding with monsters, maybe dying’ turning into ‘maybe befriending your monster, maybe getting eaten’. The story is very fast-paced and ends on a typical JW-ending, so catch me begging for One Twisted Hymn from now on.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Is this a safe space to admit I wasn’t fully thrilled by the idea of reading a romantasy? I got burned out on the genre after reading so many with the same plot and recycled characters. Let me say, Chasin is no Rhysand or Xaden… he’s a third weirder and more monstrous thing, potentially should have been left for dead the first time. Eiko is no blushing girl wonder sent to save the world, she can’t even save the bread rolls for her friends. She can’t even save herself from getting caught hooking up on the stairs. She can’t even WALK down the stairs without tripping. She can’t even… ok so you get it.
Also for the first time in a long time I was genuinely shocked by the ending! I thought I had it all figured out and I’m still laughing at myself for thinking Jane would write something painless or straightforward.
I honestly feel so revitalized after reading OSE that for the first time in several months I started highlighting things and writing questions down in my notes app. While I hate to be THAT person, I’m already dying to know what happens next, and I do NAWT know how I’m meant to wait months to figure out what’s going on.
Also for the first time in a long time I was genuinely shocked by the ending! I thought I had it all figured out and I’m still laughing at myself for thinking Jane would write something painless or straightforward.
I honestly feel so revitalized after reading OSE that for the first time in several months I started highlighting things and writing questions down in my notes app. While I hate to be THAT person, I’m already dying to know what happens next, and I do NAWT know how I’m meant to wait months to figure out what’s going on.
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