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A Burning Oath
Seleste never expected to find a unicorn dying in the forest. Bleeding and alone, the creature belongs to stories—distant, legendary, and long believed extinct. But he is real, and he is fading. Guided by instinct, she moves to save him. Before she can, he demands an oath—sealed by magic that scorches her skin and binds them both.
Ambrose is a unicorn cast aside. Disgraced after a failed mission and abandoned by those he trusted most, he sought only a quiet place to die. Instead, he finds himself tethered to a human girl, one whose touch anchors him to life and stirs a longing he does not welcome.
The magic between them is deep and unyielding. Seleste wants her freedom. Ambrose wants her loyalty. Trust is scarce, but their fates are now entwined through spell work, through the fire of their oath, and through a connection Ambrose alone understands.
As tensions rise and boundaries blur, both must face what lies at the heart of their bond. Something deeper. Something inevitable. A fate written long before either of them knew the other existed.
A fated bond.
Trigger Mentions of blood and saliva, parent-child lack of boundaries, parental pressures, femdom (pegging), and horn play.
Ambrose is a unicorn cast aside. Disgraced after a failed mission and abandoned by those he trusted most, he sought only a quiet place to die. Instead, he finds himself tethered to a human girl, one whose touch anchors him to life and stirs a longing he does not welcome.
The magic between them is deep and unyielding. Seleste wants her freedom. Ambrose wants her loyalty. Trust is scarce, but their fates are now entwined through spell work, through the fire of their oath, and through a connection Ambrose alone understands.
As tensions rise and boundaries blur, both must face what lies at the heart of their bond. Something deeper. Something inevitable. A fate written long before either of them knew the other existed.
A fated bond.
Trigger Mentions of blood and saliva, parent-child lack of boundaries, parental pressures, femdom (pegging), and horn play.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 15, 2025
67 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Lor
3 books7 followersC.L. Lor (she/her) is a pen name for Cee Yang, a first-generation Hmong-American romance author from California. The initials “C.L.” come from her grandmother’s name, and “Lor” is her mother’s maiden name—both chosen as a tribute to their memories.
When not writing fantasy romances, she is writing contemporary romances as Cee Yang. In addition, on her off time, she enjoys anime, Asian dramas, and a good matcha latte.
When not writing fantasy romances, she is writing contemporary romances as Cee Yang. In addition, on her off time, she enjoys anime, Asian dramas, and a good matcha latte.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
July 9, 2025
** ARC COPY **
C.L. Lor's book A Burning Oath was my first Shapeshifter, specifically Unicorn Shapeshifter, romance fantasy book. In my opinion, the book had a steady start and at times felt like it was moving to fast. The world building was prominent, but the deliverance felt awkward at times? In terms of, yes the information did fit what was occurring, but it also seemed like a student reading from their notes when presenting, which isn't bad at all; just interrupted the flow? I love the amount of time the main characters had together and I think we had a good amount of information and dialogue about and from the side characters. I think, I would've enjoyed the locations more mapped out? It's hard to say what I mean without spoiling the book. But I do think, my confusion would be solved by the imagery of a map or in a possible book 2?
The romance between the two characters progresses smoothly, it is not a slow burn for those who are used to that in romantasies or want that in this one, this is NOT that. Which honestly, I love. It's a good change from the slow burn and the stoic MMC's in romantasies -which again IS NOT bad- but a breath of fresh air. The FMC isn't one that needs saving, but does have things she needs to learn? That's as much as I can say about her without spoiling. MMC is baby girl coded, sassy, and hot. Again, he is a Unicorn and it is my first Unicorn shapeshifter romance so in my head it's hard to figure things out? Also as much as I can say without spoiling, but they're just right for each other.
This is pretty different than most romantasies on the market, or at least from the ones I've read, but this is a great entry for those who haven't read this genre or looking for something different. However, there is open door spice and when the content occurs in the book it is SPICY, would not recommend for young eyes. There was content near the end of the book that I'd like to mention as a "warning" for other readers as it is not in the trigger warnings but there is aggression? That would be seen in other romantasies? or traumantasies? but not from the MMC. I personally was fine, and if you watch any form of tv dramas it's stuff you'd see there, but I know others might benefit from this knowledge so I figured it's important to share.
Love this book, I've read the ARC twice, I can't wait for more from this author <3
C.L. Lor's book A Burning Oath was my first Shapeshifter, specifically Unicorn Shapeshifter, romance fantasy book. In my opinion, the book had a steady start and at times felt like it was moving to fast. The world building was prominent, but the deliverance felt awkward at times? In terms of, yes the information did fit what was occurring, but it also seemed like a student reading from their notes when presenting, which isn't bad at all; just interrupted the flow? I love the amount of time the main characters had together and I think we had a good amount of information and dialogue about and from the side characters. I think, I would've enjoyed the locations more mapped out? It's hard to say what I mean without spoiling the book. But I do think, my confusion would be solved by the imagery of a map or in a possible book 2?
The romance between the two characters progresses smoothly, it is not a slow burn for those who are used to that in romantasies or want that in this one, this is NOT that. Which honestly, I love. It's a good change from the slow burn and the stoic MMC's in romantasies -which again IS NOT bad- but a breath of fresh air. The FMC isn't one that needs saving, but does have things she needs to learn? That's as much as I can say about her without spoiling. MMC is baby girl coded, sassy, and hot. Again, he is a Unicorn and it is my first Unicorn shapeshifter romance so in my head it's hard to figure things out? Also as much as I can say without spoiling, but they're just right for each other.
This is pretty different than most romantasies on the market, or at least from the ones I've read, but this is a great entry for those who haven't read this genre or looking for something different. However, there is open door spice and when the content occurs in the book it is SPICY, would not recommend for young eyes. There was content near the end of the book that I'd like to mention as a "warning" for other readers as it is not in the trigger warnings but there is aggression? That would be seen in other romantasies? or traumantasies? but not from the MMC. I personally was fine, and if you watch any form of tv dramas it's stuff you'd see there, but I know others might benefit from this knowledge so I figured it's important to share.
Love this book, I've read the ARC twice, I can't wait for more from this author <3
August 14, 2025
nul y'avait zéro plot avant les 30 dernières pages et ce pourquoi j'ai lu a duré 2 PAGES je suis tombée dans le piège de la publicité mensongère de tiktok. très faible très fatiguée
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July 9, 2025Thank you to the author for the ARC copy of A Burning Oath!
This book was… interesting. The world held a lot of potential, and the premise was interesting and I was really excited for a unicorn shifter book!
Unfortunately this was not my cup of tea, and it was heavily because of the characters- not the premise or the world.
The MMC was not it for me, Ambrose was really quite annoying and at times completely unbearable, and it made this book hard to read for me because I couldn’t connect with him.
Seleste deserved better, ngl.
I also do have an issue with some of the words used in the smut, c*** being one of them so 40 times was a little much for me.
This book was… interesting. The world held a lot of potential, and the premise was interesting and I was really excited for a unicorn shifter book!
Unfortunately this was not my cup of tea, and it was heavily because of the characters- not the premise or the world.
The MMC was not it for me, Ambrose was really quite annoying and at times completely unbearable, and it made this book hard to read for me because I couldn’t connect with him.
Seleste deserved better, ngl.
I also do have an issue with some of the words used in the smut, c*** being one of them so 40 times was a little much for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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July 8, 2025Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book early. I was really intrigued by the blurb and I love a good shifter book.
The world is really interesting The writing is good, but the dialogue is a little clunky. The smut... Was something. There's just... So much shoulder licking. The mmc is whiny and unbearable & the fmc is giving dramatic teenager vibes. Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me.
The world is really interesting The writing is good, but the dialogue is a little clunky. The smut... Was something. There's just... So much shoulder licking. The mmc is whiny and unbearable & the fmc is giving dramatic teenager vibes. Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me.
July 16, 2025
well this was my first unicorn shifter romance and let me tell you, it was pretty interesting.
The last thing Seleste ever expected to find in the woods was an injured unicorn.
Of course she's heard of them, the stories and tragic past about them, but she believed there was no more. Seleste is such a sweet, kind, and nurturing person. I simply loved her character. Half human, half forest nymph her family holds magic, but she's without.
So she does her best to help this unicorn, Ambrose.
course that comes with more challenges since he doesn't trust her. being human and all.
Yall, Ambrose is such a funny character. so sassy. idk he made me laugh quite a bit.
the spice between these two actually moved pretty quickly...but not in a way you expect.
idk if magical saliva play is a thing...but for unicorn shifters...it is. as well as horn play.
but near the halfway mark...whoo the spice picks up. its a shock the forest around them didn't catch fire. well suppose the snow helped prevent that. 😅
things also get intense near the end.
did feel it was a bit rushed at the end.
however it was a happy ending which made me happy.
honestly this was just a fun quick read.
I'd love to read more from this author.
thank you C.L. Lor for the arc. 🫶🏻
The last thing Seleste ever expected to find in the woods was an injured unicorn.
Of course she's heard of them, the stories and tragic past about them, but she believed there was no more. Seleste is such a sweet, kind, and nurturing person. I simply loved her character. Half human, half forest nymph her family holds magic, but she's without.
So she does her best to help this unicorn, Ambrose.
course that comes with more challenges since he doesn't trust her. being human and all.
Yall, Ambrose is such a funny character. so sassy. idk he made me laugh quite a bit.
the spice between these two actually moved pretty quickly...but not in a way you expect.
idk if magical saliva play is a thing...but for unicorn shifters...it is. as well as horn play.
but near the halfway mark...whoo the spice picks up. its a shock the forest around them didn't catch fire. well suppose the snow helped prevent that. 😅
things also get intense near the end.
did feel it was a bit rushed at the end.
however it was a happy ending which made me happy.
honestly this was just a fun quick read.
I'd love to read more from this author.
thank you C.L. Lor for the arc. 🫶🏻
October 3, 2025
Maybe could have benefited from one more once-over from an editor. I don't know if it was just the Kindle edition I was reading, but there were a number of spelling and grammar errors that bugged me.
Fun spice, but I was expecting more from a book that pretty heavily advertised online the (actually extremely sparse; only one short scene) femdom content. Little bit of a let-down in that sense.
Fun spice, but I was expecting more from a book that pretty heavily advertised online the (actually extremely sparse; only one short scene) femdom content. Little bit of a let-down in that sense.
July 17, 2025
This was honestly sort of good and I wish it was longer tbh. There is a void of unicorn anything in the fantasy space so the moment I saw this was a unicorn shifter? I had to know lol.
I liked the plot and the romance was pretty good as well. Obviously this is a fated mates story so it follows those beats, but I thought the world and creature dynamics were unique.
I wish more of the plot had ...moving pieces though if that makes sense. Most of this story is a day to day setting so there wasn't really any action until the end. For me, I also wanted the romance to develop faster due to the page count. I feel like they didn't really acknowledge how into each other they were until over 60% in and that would be fine but the book is less than 300 pages. So it had to go from 0-100.
For the characters, for the most part I liked Seleste and Ambrose but some of their personalities I think were dialed a little too far into the younger side (if that makes sense). I wanted him to be more intense and her to be a little less immature but it also sort of made sense with the backgrounds they had so I wasn't too mad about it. I can appreciate that unicorns are ~delicate creatures but it seemed like he came from a kingdom of warriors and he wasn't giving that. In her case, I get why she was sometimes whiny as the youngest child of strong magic wielders, but I think it took too long for her to get strong with magic and at the point that she did, the book was over. We could've had more with her like, dialing into a potionmaker vibe and seen that side of her with the magic as an explanation for why she was good at those things.
I know this book has TWs attached but for me personally I didn't find anything too intense. Really I think Ambrose being a unicorn made me able to overlook anything I would've normally found crazy lol. There's a level of make believe you have to engage with when it comes to shifters so most of what went on was like "that tracks".
3⭐ because I just wanted more from every aspect. More plot, more action, more romance development, stronger character development, more lore...the dialogue was a little bit clunky in some places but idk, overall I enjoyed this so yeah, if you're into shifters or like paranormal creatures and want to give something different a go, read it.
Thank you to the author for the arc!
I liked the plot and the romance was pretty good as well. Obviously this is a fated mates story so it follows those beats, but I thought the world and creature dynamics were unique.
I wish more of the plot had ...moving pieces though if that makes sense. Most of this story is a day to day setting so there wasn't really any action until the end. For me, I also wanted the romance to develop faster due to the page count. I feel like they didn't really acknowledge how into each other they were until over 60% in and that would be fine but the book is less than 300 pages. So it had to go from 0-100.
For the characters, for the most part I liked Seleste and Ambrose but some of their personalities I think were dialed a little too far into the younger side (if that makes sense). I wanted him to be more intense and her to be a little less immature but it also sort of made sense with the backgrounds they had so I wasn't too mad about it. I can appreciate that unicorns are ~delicate creatures but it seemed like he came from a kingdom of warriors and he wasn't giving that. In her case, I get why she was sometimes whiny as the youngest child of strong magic wielders, but I think it took too long for her to get strong with magic and at the point that she did, the book was over. We could've had more with her like, dialing into a potionmaker vibe and seen that side of her with the magic as an explanation for why she was good at those things.
I know this book has TWs attached but for me personally I didn't find anything too intense. Really I think Ambrose being a unicorn made me able to overlook anything I would've normally found crazy lol. There's a level of make believe you have to engage with when it comes to shifters so most of what went on was like "that tracks".
3⭐ because I just wanted more from every aspect. More plot, more action, more romance development, stronger character development, more lore...the dialogue was a little bit clunky in some places but idk, overall I enjoyed this so yeah, if you're into shifters or like paranormal creatures and want to give something different a go, read it.
Thank you to the author for the arc!
July 28, 2025
Title: A Burning Oath
Author: C.L. Lor
Synopsis: Seleste never expected to find a unicorn dying in the forest. Bleeding and alone, the creature belongs to stories—distant, legendary, and long believed extinct. But he is real, and he is fading. Guided by instinct, she moves to save him. Before she can, he demands an oath—sealed by magic that scorches her skin and binds them both.
Ambrose is a unicorn cast aside. Disgraced after a failed mission and abandoned by those he trusted most, he sought only a quiet place to die. Instead, he finds himself tethered to a human girl, one whose touch anchors him to life and stirs a longing he does not welcome.
The magic between them is deep and unyielding. Seleste wants her freedom. Ambrose wants her loyalty. Trust is scarce, but their fates are now entwined through spell work, through the fire of their oath, and through a connection Ambrose alone understands.
As tensions rise and boundaries blur, both must face what lies at the heart of their bond. Something deeper. Something inevitable. A fate written long before either of them knew the other existed.
A fated bond.
Review: I am obsessed with this book! The romance was on point and ran smoothly! I loved how they spent so much time together! It felt very realistic and I loved seeing how they grew to understand one another! It didn’t feel rushed or forced! I loved Ambrose as a character he made me laugh! Ambrose was so sassy and I was enjoying every minute of it! However, the ending felt a little open for a sequel perhaps? If so I would be incredibly excited to see what’s in store for Ambrose and Seleste! I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this arc!
Author: C.L. Lor
Synopsis: Seleste never expected to find a unicorn dying in the forest. Bleeding and alone, the creature belongs to stories—distant, legendary, and long believed extinct. But he is real, and he is fading. Guided by instinct, she moves to save him. Before she can, he demands an oath—sealed by magic that scorches her skin and binds them both.
Ambrose is a unicorn cast aside. Disgraced after a failed mission and abandoned by those he trusted most, he sought only a quiet place to die. Instead, he finds himself tethered to a human girl, one whose touch anchors him to life and stirs a longing he does not welcome.
The magic between them is deep and unyielding. Seleste wants her freedom. Ambrose wants her loyalty. Trust is scarce, but their fates are now entwined through spell work, through the fire of their oath, and through a connection Ambrose alone understands.
As tensions rise and boundaries blur, both must face what lies at the heart of their bond. Something deeper. Something inevitable. A fate written long before either of them knew the other existed.
A fated bond.
Review: I am obsessed with this book! The romance was on point and ran smoothly! I loved how they spent so much time together! It felt very realistic and I loved seeing how they grew to understand one another! It didn’t feel rushed or forced! I loved Ambrose as a character he made me laugh! Ambrose was so sassy and I was enjoying every minute of it! However, the ending felt a little open for a sequel perhaps? If so I would be incredibly excited to see what’s in store for Ambrose and Seleste! I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this arc!
January 24, 2026
(Finished December 30th, 2025)
I can't lie when I say this book was advertised to me soley by knowing Ambrose would be a pathetic unicorn man who wanted to be f*ngered and p*gged. With that said, I think the book was nice.
I think overall as a whole is nice. Though im happy Ambrose and Seleste are happy, I think the overarching story as a whole was just alright. I knew coming in that the main plot would be the love for the main cheaters and their struggles to get together. But it seemed that was indeed the only soul plot point. I feel the rest of it was kind of just there. The magic system is bareboned and the events that happen, though at times were shocking, we're mostly uneventful.
Some things felt a bit predictable. Seleste ended up saving Ambrose with powers she didnt know she had, SHOCKER😱(not really, cause of course she did) and then them having to go to Damon for gettinf someone to teach her magic. And then the epilougue ended with her still learning. Though ambrose will be with her always as her mate. (When they say "My mate" I do cringe a little ngl)
I felt the ending was a bit underwhelming.
Though the s*x scenes were good and WIIILLLDDD, the rest of the story was alright. I do think its a solid read but wouldnt invest too much into it. I was advertised good smut with p*gging and I will say i did indeed get that.
(Also, HOW DARE those 3 ugly b*tches call Seleste a wh*re when that woman was LITERALLY F*CKING BOTH THE FATHER AND SON?!?!? Like girl, the pot is calling the kettle black. Be so fr)
I can't lie when I say this book was advertised to me soley by knowing Ambrose would be a pathetic unicorn man who wanted to be f*ngered and p*gged. With that said, I think the book was nice.
I think overall as a whole is nice. Though im happy Ambrose and Seleste are happy, I think the overarching story as a whole was just alright. I knew coming in that the main plot would be the love for the main cheaters and their struggles to get together. But it seemed that was indeed the only soul plot point. I feel the rest of it was kind of just there. The magic system is bareboned and the events that happen, though at times were shocking, we're mostly uneventful.
Some things felt a bit predictable. Seleste ended up saving Ambrose with powers she didnt know she had, SHOCKER😱(not really, cause of course she did) and then them having to go to Damon for gettinf someone to teach her magic. And then the epilougue ended with her still learning. Though ambrose will be with her always as her mate. (When they say "My mate" I do cringe a little ngl)
I felt the ending was a bit underwhelming.
Though the s*x scenes were good and WIIILLLDDD, the rest of the story was alright. I do think its a solid read but wouldnt invest too much into it. I was advertised good smut with p*gging and I will say i did indeed get that.
(Also, HOW DARE those 3 ugly b*tches call Seleste a wh*re when that woman was LITERALLY F*CKING BOTH THE FATHER AND SON?!?!? Like girl, the pot is calling the kettle black. Be so fr)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2025
Can I just say that I’m obsessed with the name Ambrose?! I think this is the only unicorn shifter book that I’ve read and it’s a really cool idea. Most unicorn stories I’m familiar with are all for kids so having an adult version is awesome. I love that the magic is specified as sorcery since they mostly use spells✨
This felt really different from most romantasy books. It is definitely more character driven than plot driven, but there is mystery surrounding the MMC’s past and wondering if that will come back to haunt him or not. Ambrose is very very extra 😂. Demanding, sassy, snooty and whiney are words that describe him. But he is a unicorn, and they are taught from a young age to value beauty above all else. So he starts out with a lot of potential for growth. I found the FMC, Seleste, to be pretty relatable. She just wants to be accepted as she is and feels pressured from her family to follow a specific educational path.
I really liked the addition of Damon and Una at the end and I’m interested in their stories as individuals and how they came to meet. Perhaps in a second book we’ll see more of them? 😁
Very spicy. Check the trigger warnings!
Fav tropes:
Fae 🧝♀️
Shifters 🦄
Spicy 🌶️
Magic ✨
Medium burn ❤️🔥
Banter 😏
Fated mates 💘
Herbalism 🌱
Fav quotes:
“Devour me if you must.”
“I suppose a crown prince will always be a crown prince.”
Thank you C. L. Lor for letting me read an early copy of A Burning Oath.
This felt really different from most romantasy books. It is definitely more character driven than plot driven, but there is mystery surrounding the MMC’s past and wondering if that will come back to haunt him or not. Ambrose is very very extra 😂. Demanding, sassy, snooty and whiney are words that describe him. But he is a unicorn, and they are taught from a young age to value beauty above all else. So he starts out with a lot of potential for growth. I found the FMC, Seleste, to be pretty relatable. She just wants to be accepted as she is and feels pressured from her family to follow a specific educational path.
I really liked the addition of Damon and Una at the end and I’m interested in their stories as individuals and how they came to meet. Perhaps in a second book we’ll see more of them? 😁
Very spicy. Check the trigger warnings!
Fav tropes:
Fae 🧝♀️
Shifters 🦄
Spicy 🌶️
Magic ✨
Medium burn ❤️🔥
Banter 😏
Fated mates 💘
Herbalism 🌱
Fav quotes:
“Devour me if you must.”
“I suppose a crown prince will always be a crown prince.”
Thank you C. L. Lor for letting me read an early copy of A Burning Oath.
August 6, 2025
I read this ARC. The characters and romance are the greatest gems of this story. They are loveable and fun to read across the page. I enjoyed getting to see how they grow over the course of the story. The focus on unicorns as the core of novel was also exciting as I don’t see it done often enough. With all the redeeming qualities of the characters, the story itself left quite a bit to be desired in terms of development. It felt like there were many wholes in the plot that need further exploration and important moments that were rushed over. While we do get a better view of the world over the latter part of the book, a lot of the primary world building was told to me instead of shown. I wanted to feel more with what was being shared but felt like it was just words being recited to me. Descriptions grew of the course of the story but still felt a bit empty. Even with this, I would commend the plot twists and interesting choices made that kept me engaged until the end. I honestly believe this novel just needed more time to grow organically instead of it being so fast. As things tied up toward the end, they were resolved, but somewhat anti climactic. I appreciate the spontaneity of some moments and the comfort in others. Overall, I found that the story itself needed more development and time but in the time provided you could absolutely enjoy these characters.
July 16, 2025
Okay, I can't even play, I definitely liked this book!
For me, it was out of the norm, but ONLY bc some of the spice was just too spicy for me personally. Not all of it, just some. But that was fine for me, I just jumped ahead a couple of pages & picked right up where it stopped. So if you like all degrees of spice, then you'll most likely breeze right through this book!
Aside from that, I absolutely liked this story! Magical shifting Unicorns, Forest Nymphs, Royals, fated mates, he was exactly as you would imagine a male unicorn shifter would be, sassy, spoiled, beautiful. She is a get things done type of gal & takes care of everyone else first & doesn't realize she'd doing it she just does!
It was an easy read also, which made it hard to put down. Mystical. LOTS of Fated Mates activities 🤣 The banter between Seleste & Ambrose was definitely 👌🏽 fun! He loves her endlessly & that is shown so well 💗 I loved getting to see her grow & her battle within, of never seeing she that she was good enough, made her very relatable.
The spells, the colors, the vibe, I just loved it!
I'm very thankful to have been able to read an early copy of this and look forward to reading more from C.L. Lor.!!
For me, it was out of the norm, but ONLY bc some of the spice was just too spicy for me personally. Not all of it, just some. But that was fine for me, I just jumped ahead a couple of pages & picked right up where it stopped. So if you like all degrees of spice, then you'll most likely breeze right through this book!
Aside from that, I absolutely liked this story! Magical shifting Unicorns, Forest Nymphs, Royals, fated mates, he was exactly as you would imagine a male unicorn shifter would be, sassy, spoiled, beautiful. She is a get things done type of gal & takes care of everyone else first & doesn't realize she'd doing it she just does!
It was an easy read also, which made it hard to put down. Mystical. LOTS of Fated Mates activities 🤣 The banter between Seleste & Ambrose was definitely 👌🏽 fun! He loves her endlessly & that is shown so well 💗 I loved getting to see her grow & her battle within, of never seeing she that she was good enough, made her very relatable.
The spells, the colors, the vibe, I just loved it!
I'm very thankful to have been able to read an early copy of this and look forward to reading more from C.L. Lor.!!
August 12, 2025
Lol got to be honest, I’ve never considered a shoulder to be an erogenous zone, but C.L. Lor, you’ve expanded my view on the subject.
I found this book to be a very enjoyable read. I absolutely ADORE any fated mates stories, ESPECIALLY when they don’t realize at first and/or they are reluctant about the match the universe has made for them.
The sass, sap, and spice were all there in FULL FORCE. It was deliciously dirty and explored things in a way that only a fantasy book can.
The plot wasn’t too complex nor the characters particularly deep, but that’s what makes books like this food for the soul (and other parts) and candy for the brain.
Dual POV
Tropes:
Fated Mates
Unicorn Shifter x Human Healer
Trust Issues overcome
#BigAsMyForearmGoingWhere???
Character development/Hallelujah they’re growing
Triggers:
Parental Pressures
Parental disownment and general douchiness
Mentions of blood, injury, and typically unhygienic practices made okay cause it’s a fantasy world (magic saliva)
Pegging
Horn Play (more ways than 1)
Attempted Murder and dismemberment (unfortunately not the dark romance way)
Kidnapping (not the dark romance way)
Kinda third act breakup
A particularly punchable entitled man
I found this book to be a very enjoyable read. I absolutely ADORE any fated mates stories, ESPECIALLY when they don’t realize at first and/or they are reluctant about the match the universe has made for them.
The sass, sap, and spice were all there in FULL FORCE. It was deliciously dirty and explored things in a way that only a fantasy book can.
The plot wasn’t too complex nor the characters particularly deep, but that’s what makes books like this food for the soul (and other parts) and candy for the brain.
Dual POV
Tropes:
Fated Mates
Unicorn Shifter x Human Healer
Trust Issues overcome
#BigAsMyForearmGoingWhere???
Character development/Hallelujah they’re growing
Triggers:
Parental Pressures
Parental disownment and general douchiness
Mentions of blood, injury, and typically unhygienic practices made okay cause it’s a fantasy world (magic saliva)
Pegging
Horn Play (more ways than 1)
Attempted Murder and dismemberment (unfortunately not the dark romance way)
Kidnapping (not the dark romance way)
Kinda third act breakup
A particularly punchable entitled man
August 7, 2025
Thank you C.L. Lor for sending me this advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved the idea of this book, but unfortunately it was a bit of a slog to get through. We spent so much time all in one tiny underground space and very little happened other than recuperating from injuries, and a bit of magical weirdness. It was mostly stiff dialogue and sassy banter. We had very little worldbuilding to work with until much later. Once they finally left and went out into the world it got so much better.
I liked both of the characters, and enjoyed their connection of them not being what their families wanted them to be. Ambrose is a bit sharp and snarky, but he does care underneath that hard outer surface. Seleste is really sweet, and she tries her best to get through it all and not let people push her around too much.
The romance is slow burn, and there were times it felt a bit weird in the beginning with the magical healing licking scenes setting spicy times off. It felt more like a drug than something she actually wanted from him on her own.
I absolutely loved the idea of this book, but unfortunately it was a bit of a slog to get through. We spent so much time all in one tiny underground space and very little happened other than recuperating from injuries, and a bit of magical weirdness. It was mostly stiff dialogue and sassy banter. We had very little worldbuilding to work with until much later. Once they finally left and went out into the world it got so much better.
I liked both of the characters, and enjoyed their connection of them not being what their families wanted them to be. Ambrose is a bit sharp and snarky, but he does care underneath that hard outer surface. Seleste is really sweet, and she tries her best to get through it all and not let people push her around too much.
The romance is slow burn, and there were times it felt a bit weird in the beginning with the magical healing licking scenes setting spicy times off. It felt more like a drug than something she actually wanted from him on her own.
July 15, 2025
A Fiery Debut That Grips You From Page One
A Burning Oath by C.L. Lor is a spellbinding mix of magic, betrayal, and slow-burning romance that completely consumed me from the first chapter. Lor crafts a world rich in tension and layered characters, where every choice comes at a cost—and no one escapes the consequences of a broken promise.
The main character is fierce yet vulnerable, and their internal struggle between duty and desire is so raw it practically leaps off the page. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic? Flawlessly executed. And that plot twist near the end? I’m still recovering.
The writing is vivid without being overly flowery, and the pacing keeps you flipping pages way past bedtime. C.L. Lor has a serious gift for emotional depth and dramatic stakes. If you’re a fan of morally grey characters, forbidden magic, and swoony tension that simmers until it explodes—this book is for you.
I already need book two. Immediately.
A Burning Oath by C.L. Lor is a spellbinding mix of magic, betrayal, and slow-burning romance that completely consumed me from the first chapter. Lor crafts a world rich in tension and layered characters, where every choice comes at a cost—and no one escapes the consequences of a broken promise.
The main character is fierce yet vulnerable, and their internal struggle between duty and desire is so raw it practically leaps off the page. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic? Flawlessly executed. And that plot twist near the end? I’m still recovering.
The writing is vivid without being overly flowery, and the pacing keeps you flipping pages way past bedtime. C.L. Lor has a serious gift for emotional depth and dramatic stakes. If you’re a fan of morally grey characters, forbidden magic, and swoony tension that simmers until it explodes—this book is for you.
I already need book two. Immediately.
August 5, 2025
This was a twist of lime in my vodka, I didn’t see coming! So giving “The Last Unicorn” vibes.
Albeit, this story masterfully intertwines elements of magic, nymphs, and folk lore, crafting a spellbinding tale of danger, destined mates and fervent passion.
As you walk alongside Seleste, sweet, empathetic and witty (New found Forest Nymph) on her path to self-discovery, you'll uncover the answers you seek and witness the extraordinary connection she forms with Ambrose.
A ethereal Unicorn under dire circumstances, whose uncommon wisdom, sass and youthful naivety forge a truly special bond. Creating a rich tapestry that welcomes you into their world and inspires a sense of hope.
Seemingly more character driven with its well-balanced pacing, vivid world-building, and captivating setting, this story is a true haven for the senses.
A delightful setting that draws you in, and a plot that's both imaginative and deeply soothing.
Albeit, this story masterfully intertwines elements of magic, nymphs, and folk lore, crafting a spellbinding tale of danger, destined mates and fervent passion.
As you walk alongside Seleste, sweet, empathetic and witty (New found Forest Nymph) on her path to self-discovery, you'll uncover the answers you seek and witness the extraordinary connection she forms with Ambrose.
A ethereal Unicorn under dire circumstances, whose uncommon wisdom, sass and youthful naivety forge a truly special bond. Creating a rich tapestry that welcomes you into their world and inspires a sense of hope.
Seemingly more character driven with its well-balanced pacing, vivid world-building, and captivating setting, this story is a true haven for the senses.
A delightful setting that draws you in, and a plot that's both imaginative and deeply soothing.
July 13, 2025
Thank you to C.L. Lor for the opportunity to read this book early.
This was a unique, low-stakes fantasy with a strong emotional core. I enjoyed Ambrose’s slow transformation from arrogant magical unicorn to tender, devoted partner—it gave the story a nice emotional core.
That said, the dialogue was a bit clunky, and some parts seemed a little repetitive. I also struggled a bit with how often shoulder licking came into play at the beginning.
After reading the content warnings, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect spice-wise. This may be a spoiler but "hornplay" is exactly what you think it is. 🦄 I, personally, got some laughs out of that.
Overall, a unique premise with a few bumps in execution. If you're in the mood for something a little different, this definitely fits the bill.
This was a unique, low-stakes fantasy with a strong emotional core. I enjoyed Ambrose’s slow transformation from arrogant magical unicorn to tender, devoted partner—it gave the story a nice emotional core.
That said, the dialogue was a bit clunky, and some parts seemed a little repetitive. I also struggled a bit with how often shoulder licking came into play at the beginning.
After reading the content warnings, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect spice-wise. This may be a spoiler but "hornplay" is exactly what you think it is. 🦄 I, personally, got some laughs out of that.
Overall, a unique premise with a few bumps in execution. If you're in the mood for something a little different, this definitely fits the bill.
August 7, 2025
A Burning Oath by C.L. Lor is a magical, emotionally intense, and imaginative romantic fantasy. The worldbuilding is lush, and the characters are complex, especially the prickly yet charming unicorn shifter, Ambrose, and the empathetic healer, Seleste. Their bond, sealed by a magical oath, blooms through pain, healing, and intimacy. While the story beautifully explores themes of identity, trust, and self-worth, I found the explicit scenes a bit overwhelming and excessive, which slightly disrupted the otherwise heartfelt tone of the narrative. Still, it’s a unique and immersive fantasy ride for fans of morally grey magical creatures and slow-burn paranormal romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Read my full review on my blog:https://beyondthestackswithsigy.wordp...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Read my full review on my blog:https://beyondthestackswithsigy.wordp...
July 13, 2025
I had the pleasure of receiving this e-ARC for my voluntary honest review. This was the first shapeshifter Romantasy including Unicorns for me. This was not a slow burn Romantasy like your used to. I loved the FMC Seleste and MMC Ambrose Unicorn shapeshifter!! Enjoyed this book!!
“Seleste never expected to find a unicorn dying in the forest. Bleeding and alone, the creature belongs to stories—distant, legendary, and long believed extinct. But he is real, and he is fading. Guided by instinct, she moves to save him. Before she can, he demands an oath—sealed by magic that scorches her skin and binds them both.”
“Seleste never expected to find a unicorn dying in the forest. Bleeding and alone, the creature belongs to stories—distant, legendary, and long believed extinct. But he is real, and he is fading. Guided by instinct, she moves to save him. Before she can, he demands an oath—sealed by magic that scorches her skin and binds them both.”
July 17, 2025
I haven’t completed this book yet. It is an interesting concept, yet several ways things are executed I wished went in a different direction. Or dealt with them in a different manner. I might complete this book.
Overall it comes off as more of a medieval fantasy vibe. I like that, through it wasn’t obvious from the blurb or tropes. The dialogue very much follows that suite with both the fmc and mmc saying and using time period structures. Ambrose is likable. A lot of this is unserious and centers them being fated mates.
I’ll see about completing it. It is unique. One thing I really didn’t like was her lust over him when he was in horse form.
Overall it comes off as more of a medieval fantasy vibe. I like that, through it wasn’t obvious from the blurb or tropes. The dialogue very much follows that suite with both the fmc and mmc saying and using time period structures. Ambrose is likable. A lot of this is unserious and centers them being fated mates.
I’ll see about completing it. It is unique. One thing I really didn’t like was her lust over him when he was in horse form.
July 8, 2025
This book was unicorn spicy and fun. Ambrose was so extra. He was sassy in a spicy way. I like that he went after what he wanted by improving himself first. Seleste is the smarter one but probably should have known better than to make an oath with him. It was nice that her family was so supportive of them. It made me want more scenes of Ambrose training. I hope that there will be other books in this world.
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July 9, 2025I was grateful to receive an ARC of this book. The unicorn shifter premise was appealing to me. With that being said, this ended up not being for me. I think it lacked a real plot and I felt as though the dialogue was painfully rudimentary. It had the stereotypical fated mates, smut, and immature FMC. I don’t mean to be harsh. This just wasn’t for me. But with that being said, it could very well be someone else’s cup of tea.
July 15, 2025
It wasn’t a bad read, it just wasn’t for me. The premise of the story had me hooked in, but between how the characters spoke like it was a historical romance (not my jam, would’ve passed if I knew), there were parts that felt clunky, slow burn, and it just felt like the MMC lost his sass not even halfway into the story and just became boring to match with the fmc’s personality. Like I said the premise was there…the execution just missed the mark for me
July 18, 2025
This was a pleasant surprise. I thought it was going to be a fun, silly short read, but the plot was good and the banter was great. I loved the sassy mmc, him being a unicorn shifter made his character even better. It’s exactly how I imagine a unicorn shifter would act. The FMC finds him hurt in the forest and she nurses him back health while he complains, is entitled and generally sassy. I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it.
July 23, 2025
The concept of a sassy unicorn shifter romantasy piqued my interest immediately. Ivey always been a unicorn-loving girlie, I have a Last Unicorn half sleeve, I AM the target audience.
This book was a fun read for me and though I found some of the writing a bit awkward and clunky every now and then I still cared about the characters and wanted to know how it ended. The spice was spicing and may have awakened something in me. If you love romantasy, sass and unicorns you gotta give it a try.
This book was a fun read for me and though I found some of the writing a bit awkward and clunky every now and then I still cared about the characters and wanted to know how it ended. The spice was spicing and may have awakened something in me. If you love romantasy, sass and unicorns you gotta give it a try.
August 4, 2025
** ARC copy **
I’ve read a lot of paranormal romance but this has got to be the first unicorn one. I enjoyed it a lot. If I’m completely honest I was expecting the MMC to have sassy man syndrome because of how the author advertised it. However, he was a whole lot more stuck up than anything but not in an insufferable way. Definitely had quite a bit of character development. He kind of reminds me of Astarion from BG3 in a way.
I’ve read a lot of paranormal romance but this has got to be the first unicorn one. I enjoyed it a lot. If I’m completely honest I was expecting the MMC to have sassy man syndrome because of how the author advertised it. However, he was a whole lot more stuck up than anything but not in an insufferable way. Definitely had quite a bit of character development. He kind of reminds me of Astarion from BG3 in a way.
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July 12, 2025Thank you to the author for the eARC.
The premise really intrigued me. The world was really interesting. The writing was good but it felt clunky and awkward at times, the world building read as footnotes in the main body, and the dialogue was weird. I had to put it down, but I might come back to it later.
The premise really intrigued me. The world was really interesting. The writing was good but it felt clunky and awkward at times, the world building read as footnotes in the main body, and the dialogue was weird. I had to put it down, but I might come back to it later.
July 15, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I never really knew I wanted a unicorn shifter book until I read one. The relationship between the two characters was believable. Ambrose, the MMC, unicorn shifter is so sassy and thinks he's the best since sliced bread and Seleste, the FMC, is so grounded that she grounds him. Definitely recommend this one!
July 18, 2025
omg i love me a good shapeshifter romance and was so excited to see someone write about a UNICORN 💕 Ambrose and Seleste are so cite together. especially how they started with their banter and sassiness towards each other. this was such a fun and sweet read for me. five stars! also i hope people write more about unicorns :p lol
August 6, 2025
Not gonna lie, I needed just a LITTLE more spice. BUT the plot and magic system were interesting. Ending was intriguing and definitely would pick up the second book (should it be continued).
The sassy unicorn man was funny and it was a good slow burn. 🔥
I received an early ARC copy for an honest review.
The sassy unicorn man was funny and it was a good slow burn. 🔥
I received an early ARC copy for an honest review.
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