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The Bride of Eavenfold #1

To Touch a Silent Fury

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Fans of Sarah A. Parker and Penn Cole will love this sprawling new adult epic romantic fantasy, filled with dragons, deceit and a delicious slow-burn romance.

She rides to claim her fate, he flies to burn it down.

As the only woman in the Moontouched Brotherhood, Tani studies on the haughty island of Eavenfold surrounded by men who see her as an ill omen at best. Her Fate Ceremony is only days away, offering five possible escapes from the storm-locked island, but each with their own consequences.

Lang, an insubordinate Crown Prince, holds the reins to one of the few true dragons left in the world. Sent to Eavenfold on a diplomatic mission by his warmongering father, he watches as the Brothers bestow a rare and unwanted Marriage Fate on Tani. Already her touch magic alarms him, but if she succeeds and marries the victor of the upcoming tournament, her power could topple empires.

They both arrive at the games. Her, to claim her Fate. Him, to destroy it by any means possible.

501 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication September 5, 2025

133 people are currently reading
1499 people want to read

About the author

R.A. Sandpiper

5 books248 followers
R A Sandpiper (she/her) is a twenty-something romantic fantasy author living in the UK. She has a law degree she's never used despite spending five years in government-adjacent roles, loves games of all kinds (the nerdier the better), and will always dance at weddings.

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Profile Image for Booksblabbering || Cait❣️.
1,827 reviews627 followers
August 29, 2025
I want a baby dragon, please.
If you loved The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig, you will love this.

Tani is the only woman in the Moontouched Brotherhood, spurned and doomed. In her Fate Ceremony, which determines five possible futures, powers, and a means of escape from the isolated island.
Only, she gets the unwanted Marriage Fate tied to the victor of the upcoming tournament held by the royals.

Lang, the disobedient Crown Prince, is bonded to one of the only dragons left in the world. He knows Tani’s touch power where she can sense emotions makes her an incredibly powerful ally or enemy.

Not only is there a strong friendship, a very complicated relationship between Tani and the Prince (enemies to lovers? Reluctant allies? Banter buddies? Secret keepers?), there’s a wolf, a dragon, and intriguing world building with different cultures.

He had said he would not dance with me, but this was as much a dance as any. We skirted around words, implications and desires. It was easier to flirt with him, I told myself, when he was as agreeable and attractive as he was on this night. When I allowed the wine to dull me from his crimes against me.

The tension is high strung, the plot reveals obvious, but you won’t even care because you just want the characters to react to it.

Both perspectives are in first person, and whilst Tani is the strongest, I loved jumping between the two to see their inner thoughts.

So much happens and yet you will never truly feel lost.
It is powerful and romantic (kinda) and magical.

Physical arc gifted by the author.
(I joked I could finish this in a day, and I did. Easily. I couldn’t put it down.)

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Profile Image for Esmay Rosalyne.
1,418 reviews
August 26, 2025
This review was originally published on Grimdark Magazine

When I tell you that To Touch a Silent Fury had me in an absolute chokehold, I mean that I burned through 300+ pages in a single day, stayed up too late to finish it, and then (lovingly) cursed R.A. Sandpiper for the brutal emotional rollercoaster that she just put me through. This is just peak slow-burn, dark, epic romantic fantasy, and more than that, it’s exactly the type of book that makes me remember why I fell in love with reading in the first place.

“How much of a threat could one girl really be?”

Earlier this year, I had an absolute blast as I devoured the Amefyre trilogy, but as soon as I started To Touch a Silent Fury, I realised that Sandpiper had just stepped up her game in every way possible. Sure, it took me about 50 or so pages to find my footing and get a decent grasp on the intricate world building with its countries and magic inspired by the five senses of Touch, Taste, Sound, Sight and Scent, but the level of overwhelm was vastly outweighed by my sense of intrigue, awe, and dangerously addictive excitement.

More than that, I just instantly fell head over heels in love with Tani(dwen) and Lang(nadin), and I loved getting transported into this dark and mystical fantasy world through their eyes. She is an outcast among outcasts as the only woman in the Moontouched Brotherhood on the remote island of Eavenfold, he is an insubordinate Crown Prince bonded to one of the last dragons left in the world. Their paths never should have crossed, but when Tani is bestowed a Marriage Fate during her Fate Ceremony that forces her to marry the victor of the upcoming tournament, Lang decides he will do anything to prevent her from claiming her Fate and reaching her full Touch magic powers.

“I was flying towards my Fate, whether I liked it or not. And flying right along with me was the man I had to force to marry me somehow. It was unfathomable, all of it. And yet, soaring on dragonback, it all felt possible.”

And that, my friends, only covers the first of the four parts that make up To Touch a Silent Fury. This story just kept zigging whenever I expected it to zag, going places that I never saw coming, and I was so here for the entire wild ride. I mean, it definitely has some familiar tropes like a mind-link dragon bond à la Fourth Wing (I LOVE my babes Chaethor and Hanin), a hidden identity cat-and-mouse dynamic reminiscent of The Crimson Moth, and political/court intrigue and family drama on a House of the Dragon/ASOIAF level, but it’s all just executed in a really strong and refreshing way.

Not to mention the clever ways that Sandpiper plays around with the concept of destiny and fate, both on an individual level and on a romantic level with one of the most unique spins on a marriage of convenience/fated mates-esque dynamic. Both Tani and Lang are shackled by their duties and the expectations that society has placed upon them, but I really appreciated that they didn’t meekly follow the path carved out for them. In fact, they have to be some of the most complicated, determined, mature, intense (like, hello, my tortured man Lang has such a flair for the dramatic), vulnerable, messy, dangerously powerful and emotionally complex characters I have read in an epic romantic fantasy, and I only loved them more and more as their layers were slowly peeled back.

Also, THE TENSION BETWEEN THESE TWO!!! They (should) hate each other but they truly can’t deny that they secretly respect each other, and then they also desperately need each other for their own selfish ends and just can’t stop themselves from pushing each other’s buttons every time they interact even when they know oh so well that they are playing with fire… in other words, they really had me going through it, and I love them all the more for it. I mean, sometimes I didn’t know if they or I were more confused by their inexplicable contradictory feelings and actions, but somehow that made them and their dynamic all the more realistic, compelling and irresistibly entertaining to me.

““How could I forget a face like yours?” he asked. “Your beauty has haunted me for years. Did you think I would not know you in a breath, in a moment, at a glance?””

Now, I am sure that there are aspects of this story that you could nitpick or poke holes through if you wanted, but Tani and Lang’s strong first person perspectives combined with Sandpiper’s smooth and evocative prose had me SO deeply immersed and invested that I honestly did not see or care about any flaws if they were even there. And whereas the Amefyre series might have had some pacing issues and felt a bit rushed for me in places, I think To Touch a Silent Fury is just a perfectly executed slow-burn that just masterfully builds in stakes and tension with each new chapter.

My personal favourite parts were probably the survival vibes with Tani (and SHADOW!) in the treacherous forests of the Soundlands and all the ballroom/dance scenes and court intrigue at Lang’s home of the Sightlands’ royal court, but then there truly was not a single moment of this 500 page beauty of a book that didn’t have me on the edge of my seat. And do not get me started on the emotional whiplash of the last 100 pages, all building up to an absolute gut punch of an ending that just hurt oh so good.

“We stared at each other again, then. The Sightlander and the Touchlander. The Dragon Prince and the Moontouched Girl. The Prince and the Fugitive. We would always be on two different sides of this world, and I was a fool to think otherwise.”

If you like your epic romantic fantasy in the vein of Penn Cole’s Kindred’s Curse Saga, Rosaria Munda’s Aurelian Cyle or Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree, then To Touch a Silent Fury is the book for you. But heck, even if you think you don’t enjoy romance in your fantasy and just want a damn good dark fantasy adventure full of dragons, wyverns, schemes, intrigue, and bursts of pulse-pounding action, then this is also the book for you. The Bride of Eavenfold duology truly could not have started off stronger, and my desperate desire for the second book honestly burns hotter than dragon fire. Cue the book hangover…

Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. To Touch a Silent Fury is scheduled for release on September 5th, 2025.
Profile Image for Ronja - mortalkindling.
119 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2025
I‘m blown away. This book was everything I could ever need in a slow-burn, fantasy world.
The world building was beautifully thought out and revealed through the length of the book. As a reader, I felt I was part of the story of both protagonists. Everything was explained so vividly that I felt like I was right there with them. It’s definitely a highlight for me in 2025 if not in my overall top 5 books! I enjoyed it so much, I cannot wait for the sequel!!

The author‘s writing is beautiful, I fell in love with the first sentence (that doesn’t ever happen, normally).

Also: buckle up for the last 100 pages as with most fantasy books, it leaves you on the edge of your seat!!
Profile Image for Pete Reviews Books Good.
74 reviews19 followers
August 11, 2025
Find this review and more on our blog, Willow Wraith Press! And don't miss my chat with R.A. Sandpiper on 8/27, on youtube!

https://willowwraithpress.com/2025/08...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3A_fN...

Every once in a while, a book falls into my lap and once I get going, it usually takes a bit to see how I'm gonna end up feeling about it. Which I feel like is a pretty normal thing after all. But this one?

I don't know the last time I crushed a book this quickly. And I knew almost immediately that would be the case.

To Touch a Silent Fury is an absolutely awesome book, and I really loved it. I was a tiny bit apprehensive, since I saw it in some other posts with the romantasy tag; I'm not a romantasy hater, just more unfamiliar with the genre but I do know Sandpiper's reputation among other people I trust, plus I have her first trilogy so I knew whatever the genre, it was bound to be good. I'm glad my intuition was right about that, because this was better than good; it was fantastic.

The biggest positive for me was the world building and backstory that she gave the characters before any major plot shifts occured. Lots of times, stories can be "this happened, and this THIS, and holy crap NOW THIS" and I'm left going "....who the hell are these people?" TTASF was a slow-burn, that took its time in getting us familiar with the characters, their backgrounds, their motives, everything. And it made the payoff of the book that much more hard hitting since we're very much fully integrated into the story by then.

As far as the story goes, I generally try to keep plot points out of reviews; no spoilers here. But the gist of it, Tani is a moontouched girl who is sent to an island where she trains with all the other moontouched, who are boys. Along the way she is given her Fate; one of five different outcomes for her once she comes of age, and only by exploring that Fate can she fully grasp her abilities. Unfortunately for her, the Fate she's given isn't what she had hoped for and that sets the story off and running. As far as characters go, I thought she was incredible. We get to see her journey and watch how she progresses; a far cry from immediately seeing a character knowing how to do everything, this was a nice change of pace to see the obstacles that she overcame along the way.

I had my wish; I was off the island. But, as in every fable I had ever read, wishes were a terrible thing. Once you got your heart's desire, it rarely turned out the way one hoped.

The other POV is Lang, a dragon-riding Prince who is sent to watch Tani's final testing before being given the Fate. Along the way, we do dive a lot more into his mind and find out how not only he views himself, but how his father and family relationships have impacted his beliefs, and the ways in which he's trying to both appease them and also make his own mark.

What is loyalty, really, but a lack of choice?

As the story continued, there are twists and turns aplenty. Especially the last 80-100 pages; I don't think I put it down until I was done, and as soon as I was, frantically googled "to touch a silent fury book 2?"

Overall, like I said, I loved this book. I think it's perfect for people who are fans of not just romantasy (of which there really wasn't much spice and more importantly the relationships and love stories that were in the book were very well done), but for fantasy fans in general. This book is a perfect example of why it's so important to not just have a cool idea, but beautiful words to go along with it and Sandpiper has just that. The prose is fantastic, the descriptive language masterful. It felt like I was living in a fully fleshed out world by the time the story got up and running, and I think that is a testament to her talent; I can't recommend going out and getting this fast enough.
Profile Image for Stacey Markle.
486 reviews23 followers
August 14, 2025
Oh man...the more I think on this book the more I just love it.
It definitely starts with a lot of world building which can sometimes be complicated but it all comes together so trust the process!
While this story is fairly long...every word builds the tale, the suspense, the tension! Every character has a fulsome background, with rich history and they bring that to life in each chapter.
I've read this authors first series and was obsessed so I was a little worried that this wouldn't measure up. I should get a grip! This was an incredible read.
Dual POV's always makes me happy! We get both Tani's and Langs side of things as we go and I love that.
The magic system is very unique and interesting and the story is built around Tani trying to come into her fated power but when a pretty major twist happens, things definitely start to go off the rails. This is not a romantasy to me, it feels like a big epic fantasy with dragons and magic with side of slow burn love (and I mean sloooow)
We also get some awesome twists and turns to the plot and once it ramps up...we are on a great ride to the last page!
I'm already rabid for book 2!!

I was honoured to receive an ARC to read and review, my thoughts are my own!
Profile Image for Ayla.
93 reviews
August 1, 2025
4.50 ⭐️

I was graced with the honour of getting an ARC of this book, my first ever ARC even.

What a read! After reading about 30 % of the book the anxiety already started rising in me. Knowing I already liked the book a lot and knowing it was the first in a series of two. The firat book has not even been released and I'm already longing for the sequel.

The story is well-written and kept me on my toes throughout the whole of it. There was excitement that kept building my interest all the way. There was a part in the middle that was a little bit slower but then the rest of the booked swooped in and I was awed again.

The magic, dragons and worldbuilding in the story was very interesting with a good amount of desciptions. And there we definately characters I fell in love with!
It made me smile and it made me read constantly, every litte free minute I had. But it also brought a few tears and some annoyance, everything precisely as it should be.

I can't wait for the sequel to be released! ❤️
Profile Image for Callie.
19 reviews
August 4, 2025
**Take this all with a grain of salt I’m a light reader and certainly not a critic. Feeling very thankful to have been gifted an advanced copy of this!!**

Could be convinced to move this to a 3.5/5 because I like the ending. The ending was the first time I didn’t feel like I needed to convince myself of any of the characters feelings. Where the plot truly made sense for me.

The rest of this review is random unorganized notes —

First sentence was extremely difficult to read - did not set a good tone to start. First chapter was confusing? Which is a given since it’s setting up a new fantasy world but it took me a while to fully understand what was going on.

Multiple quotes from Pride and Prejudice? I am not sure if this was intentional by the author or not. The quotes didn’t seem to fit though given they’re from 18th/19th century England. The conversation and wording of the rest of the book is much closer to 21st century linguistics. Author might be a big fan of P&P like me so I get it but it felt a little out of place.

Okay follow up to ^ I’ve actually noticed the conversation seems to change up a lot? Sometimes they’re speaking in old/proper English and other times modern? Perhaps this was intentional but who am I to say.

General gripe with fantasy: Genuinely confused how someone can go from manic (bc of baby dragon being stolen) to kissing (dragon still not found) within 10 minutes…this is always so common in fantasy books and I will never understand it.

I think in general I did not feel the wow factor reading this book. I’m not sure if some parts felt too predictable or just didn’t get me emotionally attached? But I am left wanting more.

With that said…I do have higher hopes for the second book. And I do want to know what happens. It’s an interesting and unique type of magic that I enjoyed learning about. And a cliffhanger will always leave me ready for more!! The author seems very eager and nice so I wish them luck on the release and in future works!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Amanda.
25 reviews11 followers
August 1, 2025
I am obsessed with this book! I was blessed enough to receive an ARC for this book and I cannot wait to get my hands on an actual copy. I could not put it down and read it in a day!

Tank and Lang’s journey was so beautifully written. I loved that we got both POVs throughout the book and yet nothing was given away until the perfect moment.

The world building was beautiful and the magic system was so unique and top notch!!

I will recommend this book to anyone who will listen!
Profile Image for Nicola Bainbridge.
22 reviews1 follower
September 3, 2025
✨️Arc Review✨️

🖤Unforgettable
🤍 Unputdownable
🖤 Unmatched

This is the kind of story that sets a new standard for the genre five stars no hesitation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I went in curious and came out obsessed.

The writing is stunning, it has this flow that completely sweeps you away.
It’s emotional without being heavy, it’s beautiful without being complicated, and it gave me butterflies the whole way through.

You don’t just read this book you feel it, like the words settle right under your skin.
It’s the kind of story that reminds you why you love reading  because it pulls you in so deep, you never want to leave.
Honestly.... It’s easily one of the best fantasy books I’ve picked up in years.


The worldbuilding is perfection.
It’s immersive, magical and haunting all at once.
The forests, the shadows, the atmosphere, it’s all so vivid, you feel like you’re walking right there in the middle of it.
It has that rare quality where you forget the real world exists while you’re reading.

The characters were everything
They’re  complex, layered and unforgettable the kind that stick with you.
This book gave me chills made me feel things I wasnt ready for.

To Touch a Silent Fury has it all gorgeous writing, immersive worldbuilding and unforgettable characters.
This book is my new obsession and I can not wait for book 2.
🖤🤍
August 31, 2025
Thank you to the author for giving me an arc! 🤍

The story was interesting and original, the worldbuilding was good and the dragon aspect in the book was really amazing. It was a little difficult for me to navigate because of the unique names, but I eventually started getting better at it 😁 It was also hard to get into the book at the beginning for me as I found the language to be slightly difficult, but as I read more, it was easier to get into 🤗

I really ate up the slow burn and yearning in this book, it was making me feel on edge and rooting for them 🔥

They both were very complex characters which I enjoyed, sometimes it was hard for me to understand our FMC but she was still a well written character and so was the MMC - he was incredibly interesting and his bond with his dragon was a nice cherry on top 🍒

My favorite part of the book was probably after the time skip in the cold forest + wolves + dragons.. that was just exactly what I wanted to read about 🥹

I recommend this book, I enjoyed it and can’t wait to discover more of Tani’s story, I need more as soon as possible 🫣
Profile Image for Tarnia.
6 reviews
August 2, 2025
You know what I hate about this book? The fact that, as I have read this as an ARC reader, I will have to wait EVEN LONGER for the second book.

When I first started reading this I found it a little confusing, but I think that is common with fantasy books as you have a lot of information dumped on you. Despite that small amount of confusion I read on and LOVED it.

I will say, if you are somebody who hates a slow burn, this is not your book. The romance is a very small part of the book as it explores the characters, the world and the challenges they face.

As I read this book all I could think about is how I would love to watch this in a film or TV series. As somebody with a film degree and an upcoming acting one, I couldn’t help but imagine me as Tanidwen 😂

I would also like to mention the yearning 😌🤚🏻 LORD ALL MIGHTY.
Profile Image for Tammy.
167 reviews
September 4, 2025
Baby dragon??! Yes please!!

No spice but the tension and the banter were amazing. I can’t wait to see more from this world.

I liked how there were four parts. Wish you got to see more Lang’s POV.

- enemies to ?
- dragons / magic
- marriage of convenience
- hidden identity
- 1st person duel POV
Profile Image for Meghan Nachemin.
115 reviews4 followers
August 31, 2025
This was so good bruh… it isnt even published yet and i want the sequel😭😭😭 highly recommend!!! i hope shadow has a feature in the next one… also the YEARNING ugh i love a man down bad
Profile Image for Coco.
103 reviews
July 26, 2025
To Touch a Silent Fury absolutely blew me away.

The FMC was everything I want in a protagonist — fierce, determined, and powerful, but also grounded in her emotions and vulnerability. She felt like a genuinely accurate depiction of strength and femininity, and I was fully behind her the whole way.

The MMC had me going through it — I loved to hate him at times, but as the layers peeled back and more of his truth was revealed, I totally understood him. By the end, I was rooting for him hard.

And Shadow? ICON. I wish we got even more of them.

One of my favourite scenes takes place in the forest (no spoilers, promise), and it was so atmospheric, tense, and beautifully written that I had to stop and just feel it for a second.

R.A. Sandpiper’s writing is deceptively simple — it flows so easily, but builds a world that feels complex and immersive. And the plot twists?? I could not stop reading. I was hooked from the start, and by the end, all I could think was I need book two immediately.

If you’re even thinking about picking this up, do it. This one deserves all the hype
Profile Image for Danyelle.
1 review
July 30, 2025
This was my first ARC and not gonna lie I was a little nervous when I started the book but I’m glad I kept going! There was a lot of information thrown at me in the beginning and it took me stopping and restarting to grasp what was going on, I feel like a glossary would have definitely helped to keep things straight. Once you get past the first couple of chapters it gets really good! The world building is great and the powers and concept were something new and very interesting. I loved the characters and read through the book in one sitting. There were parts I felt were rushed and others that were a little long but not enough to be off putting. I really enjoyed the book and am really looking forward to reading the next one!
Profile Image for Jackie Ahle.
97 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2025
Note: Before I begin, Sandpiper thank you for giving me an opportunity to read your beautiful work with an advanced copy. I really enjoyed this story and I’m excited to give my honest review, so here we go! 😊


Overall this was a 4.25 star read for me; I really enjoyed To Touch A Silent Fury and was ENTHRALLED by the descriptions of such a unique world and magic system throughout this tale. The politics of this land and how much of a role it played throughout the story kept me HOOKED and always wondering what would happen next and/or how the characters would react to the shifts and take matters into their own hands.

We begin the tale by following one of our protagonists, Tanidwen (Tani), a Moontouched Touchlander who sounds jaw-dropping gorgeous with her moon-white hair and eyes and overall appearance. She begins her journey in Eavenfold, an island detached from the 5 main sections of this world. This island comprises all the Moontouched as most of the other areas reject, if not kill them off, due to the innate danger they possess with their powers. They study and prepare for their Fate Ceremony with the Threads who are the head of and represent the five different fates their students could receive. Harum, one of the other students, received a Death fate and was seeking out Tani as one of his three kills, but luckily for Tani, was unable to find her and her friend, Seth. In her own Fate Ceremony, Tani learns that although she tried everything to avoid it, she earns a Fate of Marriage. As we follow this journey with her, Tani travels with Seth and Thread Ersimmon to seek marriage with the victor of the Laithcart Games. In a parallel to all of this going on, we meet our other protagonist, Langnathin, The Dragon Prince and a Sightlander, who is arrogant, cunning, and dangerous. As Lang was told by his father, King Braxthorn, to search Eavenfold for a dragon egg he also attends Tani’s Fate Ceremony where there is an initial, private attraction between the two of them before Tani finds out her Fate. We reunite with Lang at the Games which he is initially watching, but as his aunt reveals her plan to already have attempted to kill Tani, he makes the move to choose to protect her by killing off all other Game participants and unknowingly, become the victor of the Laithcart Games as Tani makes her escape.
These two protagonists were a THRILL to follow on their adventure as they came from completely opposing backgrounds, but nonetheless found themselves drawn to one another. Along with these two, the side characters were fully fleshed out and their backgrounds made the story feel more whole. The dialogue between characters was detailed and most times I could tell from the “feel” of the dialogue which characters were speaking. However, at times I did find myself a bit lost as to who was speaking and needed to reread several times to keep up with who was speaking. Along with this, I really enjoyed getting to know Seth’s background but felt that the romantic feelings he has for Tani came on a bit fast and felt disconnected from the rest of the story. It felt like we got the bomb dropped that he had deep, unreciprocated feelings for her and then in the next moment the plot moved forward and we really didn’t see that side plot come up much at all after. This makes me wonder, what was the purpose behind the author’s choice? Hopefully this will be explored more in the sequel to round out that relationship dynamic. Overall, I’m excited to see what role all characters will play in the sequel.

As we move through the plot, we find that Tani has been hiding away for the past five years in the Gossamir Forest when we find out that one of the dragons is laying an egg. Unknowingly, both Tani and Lang seek out the egg, the former for a chance to complete her Marriage Fate, and the latter to gain another dragon, hence more power and prestige for his father and kingdom. Tani is able to get to the egg first, but at the expense of its mother which was a really moving but beautifully written scene. Tani and Lang proceed to build their relationship throughout the rest of the book. Although some parts of the plot were predictable, I found the continued world building PHENOMENAL and loved picturing the places we moved through with the characters. It was a bit difficult to keep up with the locations and lore since there were so many names and places to keep track of; the map helped that effort, but it would have been more helpful for me as a reader to have a page broken up into the 5 areas and who the leaders or royalty are to make the lore easier to reference and follow.

As we ventured towards the end of the book, I ABSOLUTLEY LOVED it! I adore the mix of obstacles from Banrillen forcefully proposing to Tani, Seth being arrested the night they were supposed to escape, Hanindred being stolen and Foxlen being KO’ed, Ban and Lang fighting over Tani’s hand in marriage, and our true ending where Tani truly steps into her Fated power and burns some bridges in the midst of declaring a path towards peace.
I was on the edge of my seat, and to be honest, the ending definitely added an extra .25 of a star for how GRIPPING and ACTION PACKED it was.
No notes Sandpiper, this was perfectly constructed and executed- well done!

Over the course of this journey, the writing with the world building was mostly clear (even if there was a lot going on at times), and thoroughly fascinating to lose yourself in the story. The writing included dialogue between characters held a mix of funny banter, well crafted scenes involving layers of despair and grief, vivid descriptions of the differing sections of this world, and more intimate moments between Tani and Lang that felt so tender and heartwarming. At some points, the dialogue writing between some of the characters felt like a mix of modern speaking and how they would have spoken from that time, so it was a bit inconsistent.

For a debut series, I was very impressed and really want to again thank Sandpiper for deeply diving into this new world, unique magic system, and giving such vivid descriptions that always left me wanting more.

I’m so excited to see how the story continues to unfold and want to say thank you to Sandpiper for being so vulnerable and exploring the concepts behind multilayered people each with their own complex motivations it in this unique tale.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lena.
5 reviews
August 10, 2025
First of all I would like to thank the Author for the opportunity to read this book as an ARC !!

Small spoilers ahead. Not major.

I have a lot to say? First of all, the names 😀 They did not work for me but I understand. Fantasy names and all.

Second, the world building wasn’t weak? But it wasn’t strong either. I feel like the author had thought it out so well herself but struggled to get it across on paper for an audience that knew nothing about this world she built. I struggled through the first few chapters simply because it was difficult to understand - there were so many kingdoms, characters, names, religions, cultures and it was all just thrown at you. Even 300 pages into the book I was still getting confused with who was who and where was where.

So because of this I didn’t really understand WHY the Touchlands were so hated, or why there was a war between the Sightlands and Scentlands? I think. Also, not much was explained about the Moontouched. The world seemed a bit disconnected. Though I’ve heard the author express before that she writes fantasy first and romance second, I didn’t feel this way while reading. The fantasy aspect of this was confusing, politics and warfare under-explained.

On the other hand, I did like the characters. Tanidwen and Langnathin (?) were both very interesting and complex. I wish we could have seen more from Lang’s perspective. 75% of the book was from Tani. Their stories really compelled me to read on, I was DEEPLY interested and intrigued in Tanidwen’s fate and whether she would achieve it and how. Most of the twists were predictable but enjoyable nonetheless.

The romance was good. It was described as slow burn but to me it wasn’t. They were both instantly attracted to one another. Later, when they meet again, Tani reflects on her years hating Lang for what he did to her and while this would be an obvious feeling for her to have, it wasn’t explored much - I didn’t feel or believe she actually spent any time hating him. He seemed mostly forgotten, to be honest. Talked about factually rather than emotionally. Then when they meet again, they’re both instantly attracted to each other….again. They weren’t even really enemies either, theoretically yes, but again, it didn’t feel that way.

Also “I’m covered in blood, my dragon has been stolen, I’m distraught and terrified but yes, let’s make out.” ??? I don’t know, it didn’t work for me. I was eagerly awaiting their first kiss for the whole book and was a bit disappointed when it finally happened.

The author’s writing was compelling, and beautiful, though. But did I spy some Jane Austen quotes???? Like Pride and Prejudice?? I’m sure there was another one and if I find it, I’ll come back and edit.

Overall, it was an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to the next one to see what happens and if Tani and Lang reconcile.
Profile Image for Xan.
82 reviews2 followers
August 9, 2025
‧₊˚✧ 4.5 ✧˚₊‧
I got this book as an ARC after seeing the author as for ARC readers on Threads. I immediately applied and I have to say I am really glad I did. This book immediately grabbed my attention into a chokehold, and hasn't released it until the end.

This book weaves together with Tani(dwen) and Lang(nathin)'s point of views. Both of them living vastly different lives. One a moontouched girl, an outsider amongst outsiders as a woman between men. The other a crown prince of his kingdom. Tani wants to know her Fate as a Brother, but what if that Fate isn't what she'd hoped? And how will Prince Lang influence this Fate?

I got to admit, in the beginning when I started this I did feel a bit confused, being thrown right into the world without really knowing what was going on, but as I read on and unlocked more and more pieces of the worldbuilding and lore, the more interested I became. I was intrigued by Lang's ability to converse with his bonded dragon, maybe not the most renewing thing out there, but I haven't read it in a book so far.

I was so into the story that I forgot to take proper notes. I was constantly wondering where the whole thing was going, where Tani and Lang would end up, who was involved in what, and so on. The book just compelled me to keep reading and that's what I'm looking for in a good story.

I did see some things coming, like Seth having a thing for Tani. That wasn't a great revelation, but it was interesting how Tani handled it and where all of them end up. He definitely wasn't 'just another love interest' and I really liked that.

Lang really had a flair for dramatics, which, honestly fit him so well. There's so much going on between him and Tani, but trust me when I say that you don't know where this story is going. This is a slow burn people, but I was here for it.

The last ten percent of this book? Just a long and loudly screamed 'ahhhhhhh'. There were so many things moving and oh boy, you won't even know what hit you in the end.

Truth to be told: I cannot wait for the the next part. I got to know where this story is going and I needed the next book yesterday.

And lastly I want to thank R. A. Sandpiper for providing me with an eARC of her book. I so obviously enjoyed it and I will definitely recommend this everywhere I can. So Sandpiper better get to writing part two, because I can't wait to jump back into this story.
Profile Image for ⋆˚࿔ katie ᯓ˚⋆.
57 reviews
July 31, 2025
final rating: 4.5 stars.

PSA: everyone should read this book!!! and well done author!! thank you so much for eArc!

spoiler-free

to say this book was addicting is almost an understatement. actually, I need book two NOW! I was sincerely blown away - the magic of this world is so unique in using the five senses to adhere attributes to different characters. the dragons of this world are also so very endearing. I originally feared that that element would be identical to other novels with the same (yes I am referring to that one popular underwhelming series), but the author did such a great job in laying their history and importance to the story! I enjoyed the sprinkling of plot twists throughout and how our fmc grew into her character. for all the obstacles thrown her way, she remained resilient and kind. I also grew fond of many of the side characters :’)

spoilers





Profile Image for Casey Montalvo .
28 reviews1 follower
August 18, 2025
4.75/5 ⭐️ (rounding up bc wow)

First, I would like to thank R.A. Sandpiper for sending me the ARC of her book! Saw her posts on tik tok about it and I knew I’d love it.

Second, I didn’t rate it 5 stars because the first 20% or so of the book was a little confusing and the way things were written just didn’t make sense to me. Sometimes I would have to read paragraphs over and over again because of how things were worded. As the book went on, I felt things were a lot more clear and the writing style was something I got used to.

I enjoyed the first 30% of the book, though it was slow at times. But after that, I finished the rest of the book in two days and I am not a fast reader. It was so addicting! I usually don’t care for dual POVs but I needed them. The pining Lang had for Tani was chef’s kiss 😘 I was kicking my feet and giggling when I read his chapters!

The dragons were my favorite! I need myself a baby dragon to carry around like Tani 😭 I also loved the concept of the dragon and its bonded trading eye colors!

I’m not sure how the main characters are going to get out of the shit they created there at the end of the book, but I cannot wait for the sequel to come out! Great read.
367 reviews9 followers
July 30, 2025
Magic, dragons, slow-burn, and revenge. What more can we want in a book??

Loved the writing; the world-building and characters were chef’s kisses 🤌🏼 I was hooked from the start and the twists and turns kept coming - I was literally gasping out loud while reading. Can’t wait for this book to get published and hyped up more!

Am also very excited for the author to elaborate more on the other kingdoms. It’s going to be torture waiting for the sequel 🥹
Profile Image for Audrey Stahl.
20 reviews2 followers
August 12, 2025
*4.25, ARC review - I ate this up ngl; I really enjoyed the concept and the writing style; felt a bit slow near the middle of the book but then it picked back up; I'm not totally convinced on the romance between the main characters but I cared more about the rest of the plot than the romance anyways.. looking forward to the sequel fasho
Profile Image for Daisy_fixtion.
58 reviews7 followers
August 15, 2025
I’m I enjoy this soooo much! R.A. Sandpipers writing is just so good and I loved the development of the relationship between Tani and Lang. This book was sooo addictive and I couldn’t put it down and the plot twists were sooo good.

Can’t wait to see where the second book goes!!
Profile Image for shauna.
39 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2025
I cannot believe I not only have to wait for this to actually release, but also wait for the next book.
I loved this story - it had me hooked from start to finish and I know Tani and Lang will be living in my head rent free for ages.
Profile Image for Jenn.
60 reviews
August 24, 2025
*4.75 stars* I was fortunate enough to be given an eARC of this book, and it was such a good read. The super slow-burn romance, the dragons, the magical/mystical elements, everything about this book was done perfectly. I also really loved the themes of belonging that are ever present in every stage of the protagonist’s life. Tanidwen is such a strong character and I cannot wait to see where this story goes next! I made sure to pre-order a physical copy of this book for once it is released.
94 reviews
August 15, 2025
I absolutely adored this book!!

The magic system was so unique, utilizing the different senses as its structure. As an avid fantasy reader, I have been finding books to be very repetitive in their plots and structures, but this book is the exception. There were so many plot twists and turns that kept me engaged the whole time.

This book is perfect for fans of Fourth Wing and The Mad Queen and the False King
Profile Image for Effy Pittway.
217 reviews2 followers
August 22, 2025
Five star review incoming, I just need 3-5 business days to process what I just went through because I am not okay (in a good way).

Update, I am in fact back after processing, re reading and processing again!

I loved a pocket of lies so much and was so excited for Sandpipers next book… and she did not disappoint!!

This is perfect for people who wanted to love when the moon hatched, but didn’t because there was so much unnecessary stuff in there! It’s also perfect if you did just love when the moon hatched too.

An epic fantasy with a great romance sub plot about a woman who has been oppressed and is trying to fight for her freedom.

I needed book two like yesterday.
Profile Image for Avery Clason.
91 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2025
What a beautifully written book! Something about Sandpiper’s writing style is so fluid and ensnared me - it was SO easy to read and digest the information of this incredible world and complex characters. The beginning was a bit info-dumpy (not something that turns me away though), but once I got into the first few chapters, I was hooked! I can’t wait for the sequel!

Thank you R.A. Sandpiper for the opportunity to read this wonderful ARC!
Profile Image for Megan.
544 reviews19 followers
August 2, 2025
Thank you to R. A. Sandpiper for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

As the only woman in the Moontouched Brotherhood, Tani studies on the haughty island of Eavenfold surrounded by men who see her as an ill omen at best. Her Fate Ceremony is only days away, offering five possible escapes from the storm-locked island, but each with their own consequences. Lang, an insubordinate Crown Prince, holds the reins to one of the few true dragons left in the world. Sent to Eavenfold on a diplomatic mission by his warmongering father, he watches as the Brothers bestow a rare and unwanted Marriage Fate on Tani. Already her touch magic alarms him, but if she succeeds and marries the victor of the upcoming tournament, her power could topple empires. They both arrive at the games. Her, to claim her Fate. Him, to destroy it by any means possible.

Tani was a delight to read. Her adaptability from one situation to another was brilliant. I really liked that despite facing adversity from practically everyone around her, she kept her head held high and marched on through. There was plenty of opportunity for her to be naive and more of a recluse considering her years hidden away with the Brothers, but I really appreciated the head on her shoulders and that she wouldn’t allow such a thing to happen. The way she grew over the course of the book allowed her innate strength to shine through and I loved how she continued to stand her ground and push forward for what she wanted.
Lang had me on the fence for quite a while. I genuinely didn’t know how to feel about him. He has this arrogant attitude that wasn’t attractive to me at all and this mentality that nothing other than him and his goals mattered. It took quite a while for my opinion of him to alter. It was gradual, but there was a change to his way of thinking and his actions towards Tani. And thank god it happened because he became increasingly more palatable! His knowledge and protectiveness over dragons as well certainly helped to endear him to me.

When I saw that the author was opening up sign ups for an ARC of this book, I couldn’t resist. Anything involving dragons is going to tickle my fancy and this was no exception. I think this plot is great. I liked the idea of certain people being tethered to a fate - where they have the opportunity for change be it good or otherwise. Of course, add in magic and dragons and you have a plot that grows exponentially into something engaging. I do feel that the world building was perhaps a little much for me. There is a lot going on in this world, a lot of backstory to get through to understand the intricacies. I will admit that I contemplated DNFing the book because my brain was just struggling to get through it. Then, there was just a point where everything seemed to click and my overall reading experience was better. I don’t know if I just started engaging better with the story or if it was because we were finally at a point where the world building became second and the advancement of the plot was the focus. The characters were certainly interesting too. There is a large cast of different faces and personalities and I found it worked. The book is set in a place where kingdoms are divided into different senses, so it only makes sense that people from each place would be different, have different rituals and cultures. I think Sandpiper did a great job ensuring individuality amongst the characters. No two felt the same which is perfect. There is very little romance included in the story. Sure, there are some moments of attraction between characters, but I honestly felt that not having romance in the forefront worked the best. The focus is on power and political intrigue which held my attention more. The ending was fantastic! It’s left me oh so desperate for more. I would like to request the sequel immediately, please and thank you!

Overall, To Touch a Silent Fury is a book full of political intrigue, interesting magic and DRAGONS.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Thank you again to R. A. Sandpiper for an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Aquaspells.
36 reviews
August 21, 2025
I am super honoured to have been given the opportunity to read this book before its official release date. Thanks R. A. Sandpiper for the eARC of To Touch a Silent Fury, it is a gem!

I loved To Touch a Silent Fury. It’s clever, unique, very well written and totally addictive. I particularly enjoyed all the reference to the number 5 throughout the book, and the fact that we follow our characters over a span of 5 years. This gave so much depth to the story, by the time the first plot twist happens, we’re already so invested and familiar with the characters, their personalities, powers and motives.
I was expecting the book to be about marriage, but it actually isn’t. It’s about power, about self-reflection, about doing what’s right. Sandpiper has a beautiful writing, making you feel you’re right there with the characters. The world building is really well thought through as well, complex, but well delivered throughout the book so it doesn’t feel overwhelming at all.

When Tani is given her marriage Fate, she is far from realising how much her world will change. How much SHE will change. We start the story with a young and naïve girl who is complying to whatever society is expecting from her. But a turn of event forces her to hide for a while, survive in a hostile environment, with only herself to count on. In this time, she discovers who she really is, fuelled by hate and a desire of vengeance. She becomes this strong and fierce woman who will stop at nothing to do what she believe is right for herself and for a better world. When she goes to grab what she wants, she disrupts a well-established society, conscious of the risks and dangers, but she still follows through, because she knows it’s the right thing to do.

Lang is an interesting character as well, stretched between his duty as a dragon-riding prince of the Sightlands, doing the right thing and going against his family. He’s deeply unhappy even if he doesn’t admit it, and he’s not afraid of putting himself in danger if he feels like it’s the right thing. Multiple times he’s shown that he can be hot-headed and act without thinking about the consequences of his actions, even though he always accepts what these consequences might be.

Of course, I want more of Chaethor and Hanin, and I’m sure it’ll come in the next book. I love the relation between Chaethor and Lang, I haven’t had enough to say for sure, but I think I’m going to love how sassy she is.

To Touch a Silent Fury is an awesome story, absolutely loved it, and I definitely recommend it! This is a proper slow-burn, with no spice in the first book but a focus on character relationships, friendships and romance, which makes it even more addictive.
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