The Reader

by Hope E. Davis

Perfect for fans of the plot of Quicksilver and the magic system of One Dark Window, The Reader is an adult romantsy with dystopian themes written for those who feel powerless in life because of their stature, position, or gender.

I was born into this life only to walk another
Until the front lines began to falter
The viscount came and knocked on my door
Demanding that my brother join the war.
I disguised myself and volunteered in his stead
Only to discover I wasn’t the person they thought they had.

Forced to pass on magic, I lived my life in chains
But little does the viscount know…
I’m the biggest threat to his unending reign.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance

Unknown Binding

Published January 15, 2026

About the author

When Hope isn’t writing her next novel, she is busy traveling the world, trying new foods, or hanging out with friends. A graduate from Metropolitan State University, Hope grew up in Colorado, USA, but currently calls the Netherlands her home. To find information about her other or future novels, follow Hope on TikTok or Instagram: @hopeedavisauthor.

Reviews

[Danielle Pulliam · Rating 4 out of 5]

**𝔄ℜℭ ℜ𝔢𝔳𝔦𝔢𝔴** 𝔗𝔥𝔢 ℜ𝔢𝔞𝔡𝔢𝔯 𝔟𝔶 ℌ𝔬𝔭𝔢 𝔈. 𝔇𝔞𝔳𝔦𝔰

Release Date: January 15, 2026

4⭐️2.5🌶

Only one child per family. Born as the second baby in a set of twins, Runa was meant to die. However, their parents were unable to kill their second child at birth, despite the laws. Therefore, Milo and Runa are forced to live a half life by both of them pretending to be one person. As Runa grew, she was forced to strap down her chest and walk and talk as though she were male, and as Milo grew he wasn't allowed to lift or play sports, so that his muscles didn't develop.

When Runa’s twin brother fails to tell her he's been called into miliary service, the Viscount Aldis comes to their home conscript him, but it's her day to be a home while he's out being Milo. Runa sees her opportunity to leave this half life, and dresses as Milo (as she does every other day) and leaves with the Viscount to go to the front lines.

However, before she can reach the front lines, she is deemed too thin and the Viscount takes her (unknowing that she's female) to his mansion to be one of his personal guard.

As one of the Seid, Runa the language of Seid as a child, which means she's one of the few remaining that can "weild" magic by reading Seid. Viscount Aldis is ready and willing to use Runa for everything she's worth to win his war against the Malheim.

Weighteds

This book is a perfect fit for those that are looking for Hunger Games meets Romantasy. With all the dystopian elements, and the hidden magical powers being used for those in power for war purposes.

Themes/Tropes:
🍁Dystopian Fantasy
🍁Romantasy
🍁Hidden magical powers
🍁Dictatorship
🍁Wartime starvation
🍁Living in poverty
🍁Living as the opposite sex
🍁Gender fluidity

TW:
✨Kept imprisoned in your own home
✨Imprisoned in tortured by those in power
✨Dictatorship
✨Population control

[Kimmi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Reader by Hope E. Davis
Release Date: January 15, 2026

I honestly could not put this book down once I started it, I finished it within 24 hours across just two days. The world-building was solid, and the scope expanded naturally as Runa was forced to venture beyond her small town. I personally love this kind of progression because it lets you discover the world alongside the main character. With so many magic-users killed during the Purge, Runa knows very little about her own powers, and as she unravels the truth, we learn right along with her.

The magic system was fascinating and felt refreshingly unique. I’ve never read anything quite like it, and I really enjoyed the idea that a Reader could be the most powerful person in the room. I’m excited to see Runa grow into a truly kickass FMC.

Overall, this was a fantastic read for anyone who loves fantasy with a strong thread of romance especially if you enjoy a slightly morally grey male lead.

Thank you so much to Hope E. Davis and MTMCTours for the gifted copy.

[Ceacea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and Hope E. Davis for the gift of this eARC.
Genre: Fantasy Romance
⭐️4/5
🌶2/5
🧠3/10
Cliffhanger: 7/10
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete trilogy. Single first-person POV. Publication date is 1/15/2026.

This book has some unique aspects for the genre. Two kingdoms at war for reasons that seem to be as vast as they are unknown. It's full of secrets we haven't even scratched the surface of in this relatively short first book. Magic has been purged and is forbidden. but to what extent is the question. Our main girl Runa was born a twin which is forbidden not just because of a one child rule, but also her family's covens superstitions. Instead of giving her up to die or be sent into service, her parents make her and her brother share the same life under his name. Keeping them looking as much a like as possible. A day comes when Runa is no longer able to hide who she is and is thrust into the war without allegiance to either side. Chaos issues!

The pacing in this book is really nice. The mysteries and secrets seemed to be just stacked on top of each other. The plot seems to be only partially revealed in this first installment keeping us waiting and wanting more knowledge of what is actually going on. There is a love triangle here but it's shorter on one side if that makes sense. 😂 I wish we had time to establish more depth for the side characters so they were more than just tools to move the plot along. Hopefully they keep getting development throughout the series.

Overall all this is a very quick, good fantasy romance read that will have you wishing is was longer. Beware the cliffhanger!

[Aly | Thealylifestyle ⋆✴︎˚｡⋆ ⏦ﾟ♡︎ ⋆ 𐙚 ̊. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was unputdownable!! Woow from the moment I open it, I was hooked trying to figure out everything about Runa and Milo. The thought of living in a world where a family was only able to have one child, Runa has always felt like her life wasn’t hers so I was instantly drawn to her story and wanting her to be happy. The magic system and the Reader having the abilities to give someone else powers as well was so intriguing. The romance in here as well uff just be prepared because it gets complicated and the ending!!! Let’s just say this book is not officially out yet and I’m already craving the next one!!

[Elisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you Netgalley and Hope E. Davis for this ARC :)

Brief Description:
In the Heim region magic has been outlawed and Purged, and twins are seen as bringers of Hel. The Reader is about a girl, Runa, who spent her whole life pretending to be her twin brother, to keep from being put to death, when one day she volunteers to join the Viscount's army in place of her brother in the war. However, she was deemed not strong enough to fight, so the Viscount decides to use her Seid reading skills to help him dominate the war. Watch as Runa finds out more about her heritage and what she's actually capable of.

My thoughts:
This book was so good! I could not stop reading it, the plot was amazing and I loved seeing Runa grow and change throughout the book. She loves her family and will do anything for them, but that doesn't stop her from also thinking what's best for her and the Seid.The unique magic system was also such a good touch in this book.

The romance between the FMC and MMC was to die for. I honestly might have to re-read this book to see them interact from the beginning.

This book was fast paced and I have to say I was entertained for the whole thing. Whenever I had to pause reading for real life things all I could think about was what could happen next.

Hope E. Davis did such a good job and I can't wait for book 2!

[Angie Frakes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Hope E. Davis for an eARC of The Reader in exchange for an honest review.

This might be my favorite of Hope’s books that I’ve read yet! Runa is one of my favorite FMCs that I’ve read in a while - she goes from being resigned to living a life in hiding to stepping in to her own power and confidence. As a lifelong reader, I really enjoyed the magic system in this book, and I can’t wait to see it explored more as the series continues.

I’m a sucker for a love triangle, and I really enjoyed how Hope navigated the love triangle in this novel. I definitely changed which MMC I was rooting for multiple times throughout the book.

The only issue I have with this book is that I want the next one now!

[Unleishd_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Runa is the chaos I crave!
Magic, rebellion, and a girl who refuses to be underestimated. The Reader delivers dystopian romantasy with sharp teeth and a heroine who’s done playing nice. Hope E. Davis understood the assignment!

[Jennifer Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read, a Mulan-ish vibe, easy to follow magic system,Love triangle and fated mates. And yes this leave you on a cliffhanger but its sooo worth it!!.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I started reading, I was imagining this might be like She's the Man/Mulan, with Runa taking her brother's place at war. Once I started, though, it's much more like What Happened to Monday?

Poor Runa, essentially living her brother's life on the half of the week she's allowed out of the house, having to cultivate his interests when hers are vastly different. She seems very sheltered, and she's definitely put through it with all the places she's taken (cause she never really goes anywhere of her own volition). And the reveals just get dropped in her lap along the way, and she has to keep it together and learn to succeed.

And in the permanent team, we had a poll of whether we were Team Leif or Team Otho. Personally, I'm very much Team Runa, like let the girl rest! Let her do what she wants!

She gets tricked into a binding ceremony at the end of the story, and we're very much left wondering what will happen! Will she be able to get back to her true weighted (aka fated mate)? Will she be okay where she's going? Is she going to be forced to read again? What about the fate of the war?!

Some favorite quotes:
I was supposed to die the day I was born, and in moments like these, I wish I had.
The good news was, 25 was already quite late to court and marry, so soon all the eligible individuals would be snatched up anyway and we would continue to be the town pariah forever, together. (what a way to look on the bright side)
"Because it is much easier to demolish a tyrant from within."
I had gone on for far too long simply existing, allowing these governments to use my abilities to their own gain. Allowing men to tell me what to do to benefit them. It ended now.
I was done being dragged from place to place, ripped from everything, the moment I was comfortable. I was done being lied to. I was done doing what I was told.
It was time for me to stop being complacent. I was the Reader. I was in control here, and it was time I showed them. It was time I showed everyone.
"Oh my sweet Runa, I've waited my whole life to meet you, an entire season to touch you, I can wait another few days to have all of you."
I fight for myself.

If you love dark romantasy with hidden identity, a love triangle, unique magic system, and morally grey MMCs (because yes, there's more than 1!) then check out The Reader!

I received an advanced review copy from the author. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
As a reader, I have to appreciate a story where the heroine's power comes from reading. I mean, as a fantasy/romantasy reader, that's a dream come true.
Runa is an identical twin sister to Milo, in a kingdom that has a one child policy. Even worse identical twins are considered an abomination. She and Milo have spent their lives sharing one identity until Milo fails to show up for mandatory military service. Runa is forced to go in his place. At the viscount's, she meets General Otho and Leif.
At times, this story gave me Orphan Black, Mulan, and A Deadly Education vibes.

The story is very fast-paced with lots of action and a sense of humor. I mean, when she meets Leif, one of the MMCs for the first time and the confusion that ensures. I couldn't stop laughing. Then, when she meets Otho, literally one of the first things he says to her is," Who did this to you?" 🔥

However, the story moves around to a lot of different settings with similar names and is a tad confusing. Also, Runa goes with the military so her brother can stay in the university. The university and military base are in the same town . I feel like this would have made more sense if they were in different locations.

But the ending?! Absolutely brutal in the best way possible. I can't wait for book 2
Thanks for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.

[Laylaa Khan · Rating 4 out of 5]

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

When Runa's twin brother evades military service, she disguises herself and takes his place, only to be assigned to the Viscount's palace where her magical abilities draw dangerous attention.

★ Stakes
My favourite aspect of this book was the high-stakes. It was quite literally life or death for Runa, born as a twin in a world where only one child is permitted per family. She is thrown into a world where she has to sacrifice so much of herself, and somehow the stakes keep getting worse. I loved it!

★ World-building
The world-building was beautiful. I could vividly imagine each scene in my head. There were truly no words wasted on the description in this book.

★ Plot
Runa is forced into conscription in her brother’s place. This is a story of suffering and sacrifice, in a world that has abandoned her. The plot was woven so beautifully.

★ The extra polish
The extra polish, in my opinion, was the magic system. A magic power that is given to those able to read the language of Seid—yes, reading is a superpower!

☆ Characters
The characters were well-written and easy to love. Tuna’s kindness was truly admirable. The only aspect of this that made me feel a bit sad was the way that she used sex as a weapon. I understand that she is used to self-sacrificing, but there were some parts of the character that I did not love (will not share too much to avoid spoilers).

Overall, a great story. Now go read it, it might give you superpowers 😉

Note: I received an ARC of this story in exchange for a review

[Bookworm From Finland · Rating 3 out of 5]

The fascinating world of magic was the best part of the book for me. How cool it would be to listen the reading of the book of power and get some magic for myself. Unfortunately, the romance didn't convince me at all.

I wanted to know more about covens and their history, as well as the characters in the book. I would have liked to read more about our FMC Runa's everyday life before the story jumped into the dark depths of the use of power, so that Runa's experiences would have touched me more.

Thanks to the writer Hope E. Davis and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an early review copy.

[BlazesBookNook · Rating 4 out of 5]

2 🌶
This was my 1st introduction to Hope E Davis and her writing style is good.

Has my on the edge of my seat through most of the book.

I love ortho runa and friar.
I felt sorry for Milo in the beginning as he was thrown into this life just like Runa was, but when he had the opportunity to help of his own fruition he decided not to. I am unsure if feel about this. Just hope he redeems himself.

I dislike lief.


Can't wait for the 2nd installment

[Serrendippiet · Rating 4 out of 5]

For anyone who has ever wished that reading was a magic power.
Born into this life, only to walk it in the shoes of another. Will Runa ever be free to be herself or will she be stuck as a pawn in a war she didn't sign up for?

The Reader takes you on a striking adventure full of lies, secrets and betrayals. The plot was perfectly paced with genuine, non-stop suspense, there was always something happening or being revealed that kept it easy to continue reading well into the early morning. I liked that while The Reader had great depth, it also had simple and easy to understand world-building. The Reader felt like a book that was well thought-out with a dark, mysterious history. However, it never felt confusing and explanations on the why, what and when felt like they were seamlessly integrated into story without info-dumping. The book is filled with complex, emotionally charged characters that leave you wondering their true intentions the whole time. There were plenty of times my heart really broke for Runa, the girl can't seem to catch a break when all she wanted was a quiet life to be herself. Instead, it seems, life in Heimland has greater plans for her and with a cliffhanger like that, I can't wait for the second book, The Seeker.

This book was a rollercoaster with high-stakes and a heroine literally fighting for her own life. The Reader is the perfect introduction to the trilogy!

[Summer Jacobs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! There's magic, fantasy, adventure, and so much more! Hope E. Davis creates a world to fall in love with. There's a strong FMC who blooms into her true self with every turn of the page. A slow burn that keeps you wanting more!

[J White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Davis has created a beautiful, magical world. The characters' personalities are each unique and crafted in a way that adds to the storyline. For me, some explanations are not well created, but overall, this is a fun world to get lost into!

[Dallas Godlewski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really excited for this book because I was able to get an ARC copy, I wasnt disappointed. This book is a bit on the shorter side and ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, but honestly thats to be expected when its the first book in a series. I love the MFC and cant wait to read more about all of the characters in the next book. I genuinely could not put this book down when I started it. The world building is done very well, the introduction to the characters is done in such a tasteful way as well. I hate when character introductions feel kind of rushed or feel like an afterthought but you dont get that in this book at all. Its a great read and I hope you all enjoy it.

[Carli.Reads.A.Latte · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm still processing WHAT
The Reader is an electrifying start to a new trilogy that fans of One Dark Window and Quicksilver will absolutely devour. Set in the oppressive world of Ralheim—where twins are feared as harbingers of dark magic and peasant families are forbidden from having more than one child—the story follows Runa Potson, a woman who shouldn’t exist.
​A Life Shared in the Shadows
​The premise is immediately hooky: Runa and her twin brother, Milo, have spent twenty-five years sharing a single identity—his. From matching tattoos to alternating days at university, their survival depends on the world never knowing there are two of them. This tension is palpable from page one, making every interaction feel like a life-or-death gamble.
​Magic in the Words
​The world-building truly shines when Runa is forced into the service of the ruthless Viscount Adis as "The Reader". In this world, magic isn't just cast; it is read from the ancient Seid language. I loved the concept that the cadence and pronunciation of these texts can grant incredible powers like wind manipulation, empathy, and persuasion to those who hear them. The discovery of "Seekers"—those who can sense magic—and the fated, "weighted" bonds between individuals adds a layer of soul-mate-level romance that kept me turning the pages.
​A Heroine Finding Her Voice
​Runa’s transformation is the heart of the book. Watching her go from a woman literally hidden from the world to a pivotal player in the brewing war between Ralheim and Malheim is incredibly satisfying. Her relationship with Leif, a Seeker with secrets of his own, provides plenty of heat and emotional complexity, especially as they navigate the intensity of their potential fated bond.
​
​With its dark themes, high stakes, and a cliffhanger that leaves the fate of Heimland hanging in the balance, The Reader is a must-read for romantic fantasy lovers. It’s a story about reclaiming identity and the power of knowledge in a world that wants to keep you silent.
​I am officially counting down the days until Book Two: The Seeker!

[Elin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley and Hope E. David for the eARC ❤️

Really fast pacing. So much so that I thought that the world building suffered. The first half of the book I thought that the world building was non existent and I really couldn’t see the places in my head. It got better throughout the book, but I wouldn’t say it was great.

What I liked about the characters was that they were flawed and morally grey. You really didn’t know who was on Runas side or not. The description of the characters though was abysmal. There was literally nothing expect hair colour, eye colour and how tall/short they were.
Side note: I did not like the romance aspect at all and all these feelings that stemmed from nowhere was really frustrating to read, because you didn’t get any explanation.

The magic system was the most interesting part! Very unique and something I haven’t seen before. It’s was refreshing to see that writing and books are magic and that everyone can have it (under the right circumstances).

All in all, it was an ok book and I wish we had a bit more depth to it. But maybe that will happen with the second book (yes there was a cliffhanger).

[Lindsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: This was my very first ARC read!

I am a lover of all things romantasy. I found myself flying through this book and looking forward to book two! The magic system is different from anything I’ve read before. There is an interesting dynamic between the FMC and her maybe/maybe not love interests throughout the book. The world building was detailed enough to be able to follow along, but open enough to leave room for more exciting things later in the series. Overall, fun read and looing forward to the next book!

[Erin Arkin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

The Reader by Hope E. Davis is a solid entry into the adult romantasy genre, offering a unique magic system set in a world grappling with dystopian control and secrets. The novel has strong core concepts and a fast-paced plot that keeps the pages turning, establishing a compelling foundation for what promises to be an intense series.

The story is set in a kingdom where magic is outlawed and controlled, existing only in whispers and ancient texts following a violent "Purge." The stakes are immediately high for our protagonist, Runa. Born a twin in a society where having more than one child is strictly forbidden—and the second child often claimed by the King for servitude—Runa and her twin brother, Milo, have been forced to share a single life, constantly living under the guise of the sole male child. This setup provides an immediate, high-tension premise that is both brave and heartbreaking.

The fragile secret shatters when Runa is forced to volunteer in her brother’s stead on the front lines of a brewing war. Thrust out of her sheltered existence, she begins to uncover truths about her family, the Purge, and the terrifying power she unknowingly holds as a "Reader." This specific magic—the ability to harness power through texts and the act of reading—is truly original, grounding the fantasy in a concept that resonates deeply with anyone who loves books. As the plot unfolds and Runa’s secret is inevitably compromised, she finds herself caught between two kingdoms, two strong male leads, and the destiny of her world.

The biggest highlight of the book is the gradual unfolding of the world-building and the mysteries surrounding the forbidden magic. The complex web of secrets, betrayals, and political machinations kept me hooked, eager to see the next twist.

However, the book's main obstacle for me was the execution of Runa's character arc. While she is introduced with incredible potential—a character physically strong, highly intelligent, and capable of wielding immense power—her behavior often felt frustratingly wishy-washy. Runa is repeatedly put in situations where she is underestimated, bullied, or manipulated, and her reaction often felt passive rather than proactive. Despite the immense power she begins to access and the high stakes of her circumstances, Runa frequently allowed secondary characters to walk all over her, failing to leverage her intellect or new-found magical prowess to defend herself or seize agency. For a heroine fighting for her life and identity, her lack of assertive self-preservation throughout crucial parts of the narrative made it difficult to fully connect with her journey and root for her success.

The Reader delivers a genuinely imaginative concept and an engrossing plot with plenty of political tension, slow-burn romance, and solid fantasy elements. The world-building around the magic system is fantastic, and the dual-identity trope adds compelling emotional weight.

While the story itself is a strong piece of fantasy, my struggle with Runa’s consistent passivity prevents me from fully embracing the series. The massive cliffhanger certainly demands a sequel, and the unresolved mysteries about the war and the king’s secrets are tantalizing. However, my desire to continue hinges entirely on seeing Runa evolve from a reluctant pawn into the powerful, kickass heroine the synopsis promises she will become. If the next book, The Seeker, features a Runa who actively fights back, trusts her own instincts, and stops letting others dictate her life, I would happily return to this world. As it stands, I am pausing here, hopeful but uncertain about where her character journey will lead next.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Stina Bradley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cliffhangers should come with warning labels, because The Reader by Hope E. Davis ends with one that nearly ended me. When I saw “Seeker August 2025” at the end, I genuinely thought the sequel was already available. Discovering that it won’t release until next August felt like emotional sabotage. Once I recovered from that heartbreak, I realized the book itself was worth every bit of the chaos it caused.
The Reader offers a gripping premise set in a world where families are restricted to only one child. Runa, however, is a hidden twin, forced to live her entire life pretending to be her brother Milo. She dresses like him, talks like him, and essentially becomes him in order to protect her family from harsh consequences. The fragile lie starts to crumble when her parents overlook one crucial rule: every firstborn son must enlist in a brutal, never-ending war. That moment marks the end of Runa’s disguise and the beginning of her true story, one shaped by sacrifice, danger, and a world far more intricate than she ever realized.
Runa herself is an incredibly compelling protagonist. She’s selfless in that classic romantasy-heroine way, strong, loyal, and willing to give everything for the people she loves, and that very trait makes it all too easy for others to take advantage of her. Her relationship with Milo is especially frustrating; he is selfish, oblivious, and frankly undeserving of the protection she’s given him all her life. In contrast, side characters like Friar and Astrid absolutely shine. They add heart, humor, and depth to every scene they’re in, and I sincerely hope they play an even bigger role in the next book.
While the pacing slows in places, much of that stems from the complexity of the magic system, which demands close attention. The worldbuilding is layered and detailed, and the relationships, both romantic and familial, are messy, morally gray, and emotionally charged. The family dynamics in particular are uncomfortable in a way that feels intentional, highlighting just how much Runa has been forced to sacrifice.
By the time I reached the final pages, I was furious in the best, most emotionally invested way possible. The ending is bold, dramatic, and guaranteed to linger in your mind. I have a long list of questions I desperately hope will be answered in book two, along with one very firm opinion about the love interest I’m rooting for. From his first appearance, he became the one for me. He deserves so much more than he’s gotten so far, and if Runa doesn’t appreciate him properly, I absolutely will. He can be my Weighted mate any day.
Despite the agony of waiting for the sequel, The Reader is a powerful and compelling beginning to a series with rich worldbuilding and unforgettable characters. I’ll be counting the days until the next installment arrives.

[love, Mona · Rating 3 out of 5]

A truly imaginative and unique world and magical system in a kingdom where magic is forbidden and on the edge of war.

Runa is a twin in a society where having more than one child is against the law. She grows up hiding, sharing a life with her twin brother and pretending to be him. She is thrust into the front lines of the war when her brother is conscripted and she is taken in his place. There she begins to uncover the truth of her heritage and her power as a Reader - the ability to give magic to individuals by the act of reading magical books. In a kingdom where magic is outlawed and exists only in the cautionary tales of the Purges, Runa’s heritage is uncovered and she finds herself thrust into a precarious position.

I really enjoyed the premise of this book and felt it had a lot of potential but something fell short for me in the execution unfortunately. I think this was due to a factor of character development and the use of the world building.

Runa had the potential to be a strong and compelling protagonist but her character arc unfortunately didn’t allow for this in my eyes. She is capable of wielding and granting magic and is resilient and strong due to her upbringing. Despite all these strong traits, she lets other characters frequently walk over her and diminish her. I found this incredibly frustrating as it wasn’t an area of development for her but almost a permeant trait. I felt that she never took control of her own story and let every move be dictated by others. Even, getting to shed the persona of pretending to be Milo, didn’t change her personal arc and I felt that there were many missed moments where she could have decided to take agency but didn’t and this made the plot feel rather flat as well as I couldn’t connect with her properly.

The world building and magical system had many great elements to it and this was a definite highlight. However, there were areas that I felt could have been further developed and felt a little two dimensional without this development. This is rather a hard point to describe but I felt that the bones of the world were really strong and had a lot of potential but it wasn’t fleshed out in a convincing way for me?

There were certainty a lot of tantalising questions left unanswered and an ending which leaves an interesting direction for the sequel. I feel that the series has potential if the future books show a more compelling character arc and flesh out the world to make it more convincing for the reader and allow them to become engrossed in the world.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hope E.Davis for the opportunity to read the arc.

[Kari Turvey-Gantz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was selected by this author to do an advanced read.

I have to say that my main and only real conflict with this book comes down to one simple problem: I want MORE. In this singular book lies the potential for (in my opinion), the ability to break the story up into 3 books. And had she done that, I would've devoured them as quickly too!

The author has so much detail and information and works building all crammed into 322 pages. I would've read entire books about the MFC, each portion of her existence, what life was like before the Purge, exploring her abilities, etc.

The details that went into building such a vast and complex world does not go unnoticed. I love the indications that these cities within the realm are all connected; but to what length is not yet revealed. There's so much possibility in this series!

I really enjoyed the fact that the FMC is so driven to protect those around her and that there's no real limit to her self-sacrificing for those she truly cares about. She has those beautiful *what if* moments, but then just as quickly is willing to do whatever it takes to protect those she's closest to. I do believe there's a future for our FMC in which she's not so duty-bound, but she still has many hurdles to get to a place she feels free to do so.

The FMC, Runa, has so much more to her than just her romantic existence. Her duty to her family, the drive to help others, the hope for a better world. It makes her a multidimensional character. And that she's capable of still having this drive and these hopes for something BETTER, makes her a relatable and easy character to empathize with and root for.

While there's themes that are often seen in Romantasy books, the author has done a beautiful job in making them uniquely her own. I very much loved the parallels that exist between Runa, Lief, and Otho. None of these themes feel forced. I think it is a pleasant change from some of the more *expected* tropes that Romantasy readers come across in almost every single book.

I cannot wait to continue this series and hope that there's much more to come!

[Em Reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

This series has so much potential and I loved the beginning. I thought the magic element was fresh, I enjoyed the sacrificed twin aspect, and was really excited to see the character growth. I felt like the foundation to be great was there but the execution just missed the mark for me.
My biggest holdups were:
The characters and descriptions - I need more than just hair color, eye color, and tall. I couldn't picture the characters a lot of the time and was confused when everyone suddenly believed throwing a dress on "Milo" completely changed him into Runa.
Collum's sudden personality change, what's the basis, is she good or not? Why do we act like she was a mother figure to 15 year olds. 15 year olds are old enough to remember more and have more opinions than what was being portrayed.
Based on Runa's initial description, she is physically strong, gifted with potions/herbs, and studying engineering. Why do we see none of these attributes at play throughout the book? She is a weakling "male" with zero fighting skills, she never uses her potion prowess except in mention and towards the very end (which was comically written that she was hurrying to heal her cousin's fever so she makes a potion but then is too tired to give it to her, and when she takes the time to make the "pepper gas" which was only used on the soldiers who broke into the room she was working in; that made no sense.) And its never shown that she has any bit of a sharp mind or cleverness.
The Transitions - I felt like there was a lot of "and suddenly he appeared" type scenarios. Do these men have teleportation powers? Because it sure seems like it. I found it tough to get through the meat of the book - it just felt like a whole lot of nothing to me unfortunately.
The magic - where is it??? It's such a cool concept yet it is barely integrated into the story.
I did enjoy the ending and I felt like that potential picked back up from where I felt it missing in the middle.
But what do I know, I certainly could never write a book, so take my opinions with a grain of salt.

[Mels · Rating 3 out of 5]

★★★⯪☆ 3.5

*Sort of spoilers ahead*

We start learning about Ralheim in snippets at the beginning, so the world is discovered throughout the book alongside Runa, our magical second twin protagonist. Seems that because we have to know the world asap to understand upcoming events, Runa is kidnapped again and again and again and so we are thrusted into different settings in a short period of time and we meet A LOT of characters, which overall made the plot feel rushed and the world-building feeble; I hope the over explanations we are given when Runa is going from place to place so goddamn quick are to expand the Seid history and the information on Salheim on the next book.
There was information given on the main character’s family which got me going “huh?!” i.e. a lot of contradictions regarding MC’s feelings towards her cousin and the magic they read, she doesn’t feel like she is on her side but later wants to save her? There are more instances like this in which Runa contradicts her feelings without justification but for something we find out later on.

For the romance I feel conflicted, usually dark romances are a little more intense on the psychological or physical aspect, but this is pretty light on the dark tbh. Although most of the book I felt the romantic relationships were one dimensional and forced, it started making sense towards the end of the book which in all honesty I really liked, so for me it was more of a “give it time” book since most of what had been learned and well, what I’d felt regarding some characters, starts to connect.

This is an entertaining reading if you like magic, if you read and liked Inkheart, and if you are patient to find the answers to the questions that may come up while reading this book which I do recommend.

Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the eARC!

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Reader: A Fun & Frustrated Review (4/5 Stars)
👯 The Plot Starter: "I Can Totally Pass for My Twin Brother" – Our heroine, Runa, makes the tactical genius move of replacing her twin brother in the military draft. Because why just hide when you can risk execution by committing military impersonation? It’s bold, but honestly, the fact this worked for longer than a minute proves that Ralheim’s recruitment system is flawless.
✍️ The Draft Twist: "The War Needs... A Linguist?" – Before Runa can even load a rifle, she’s judged "too thin" and conscripted into service at the Viscount's palace. This is peak military efficiency: rejecting a soldier for being slight, but immediately forcing them into high-stakes espionage because they know the magical equivalent of Latin.
👑 The Viscount: The Grumpy CEO of War – Viscount Adis is your classic morally gray anti-hero. He's cold, he's powerful, and he wants Runa's magic to win his "petty war." He’s the boss who assigns you a project that will decide the fate of the nation on a Friday afternoon.
✨ The Magic System: Grammar Is Power – The magic revolves entirely around a specific language. This book will make every English major feel truly powerful. Runa isn't fighting dragons with swords; she's fighting tyrants with well-structured clauses. It's truly revolutionary.
🧐 Overall Vibe: "This Is Above My Pay Grade" – A delightfully intense romantasy that constantly reminds the reader that Runa is just one misplaced magical modifier away from chaos. A highly fun read, despite the obvious lack of a union for magical conscripts.
💌 Acknowledgments
Thank you to the NetGalley Editor for the chance to review, and to the brilliant writer, Hope E. Davis, for this imaginative, word-powered adventure!

[Cinnamon&Pine · Rating 3 out of 5]

When reading aloud becomes power

Runa grows up in a city where both the state and the local coven have a problem with more than one child aka twins. Thanks to loving parents, she survives hidden, taking turns pretending to be her brother. That works out—until her 25th birthday, when said brother is due to be conscripted. Cue disaster.
Dragged off under the wrong name and believed to be a man, Runa’s unusual ability to read aloud books of magic makes her a valuable tool—and a target.
What follows is an escape attempt that spirals into a love triangle, a handful of betrayals, and enough impulsive decisions to make you wince.

My favorite MMC fell first (of course he did), but she fell for the other one. What a mess.


It’s for you if you like
• Love triangles
• The concept of reading as magic
• One moody, broody MMC who practically drips intensity


Not for you if you don’t like
• Love triangles (for obvious reasons)
• Impulsive, naïve heroines who confuse attention and love and trust everyone
• Cliffhangers
• “Using your body to reach your goals” moments
• Worldbuilding with city names like Salheim, Malheim, Walheim
• More questions than answers at the end


⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3/5)
A solid concept with some frustrating choices and a heroine I want to shake—repeatedly. But the idea that reading is magic and the emotionally tangled MMCs kept me going. Just… brace yourself for that cliffhanger.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Krista Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes when a man says he loves you, and you got a gut feeling not to trust him, you really gotta stick with that feeling, because oh boy did this book show that, especially with the twists at the end, and I need that next book asap!

You follow our FMC, Runa, who has spent her whole life sharing her existence with her brother, because she is a twin never meant to exist, and after her parents are killed due to their magic, they must work even harder to hide who they are. When people show up to conscript her brother, she is taken to the viscount of her area and he discovers that she has powers to read books of magic to him. He uses this to his advantage and she ends up as a prisoner, only meant to give him more power. She must learn who she can trust and how to save her brother and cousin from the hell she is going through.

This book had so many exciting twists and turns, and reveals that I couldn’t put it down! I really enjoyed the FMC and how much she kept fighting even when she didn’t want to for the people she loved. I also really enjoyed one of the MMCs and his brooding and their banter. There’s a few side characters I also really enjoyed and a brother or two I’d like to punch but overall the diversity of personalities helped immerse me in the world, and that in real life people do let you down so it made it feel even more real! Overall I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait for the next one! My rating 4.3/5!

Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!

[Priya | fablesandstarlight · Rating 3 out of 5]

I want to thank the author for gifting me an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! The Reader definitely has a unique premise - there is a world where there exist covens of people who can read the Seid language. Should these readers read out loud from specific books, unique powers from these books can be bestowed to those who heard the reading. Therefore, anyone is capable of harnessing magic. The premise of reading magic was so unique and I really loved the concept! We have Runa who has had to lead a double-life acting as her twin brother since in Ralheim, twins were bad omens and one was typically put to death upon birth. However, their parents didn't want to part with either child and so this was the solution they came up with. I'm still not entirely sure how they were successful in pulling this feat off for as long as they did because in practice, that seems extremely difficult to achieve, especially when one of the twins had a relationship they were sort of pursuing. I did enjoy watching Runa's journey coming into herself once she was free from living as her twin Milo. It was nice to watch her make decisions for herself and for the betterment of their world which is at the brink of war. There were a few times I had to suspend my disbelief at some of what was going on and I didn't really feel as invested in the romance as I would've liked. I will say that the art included throughout the ebook was gorgeous! Overall, I would recommend The Reader for readers who enjoy:
- Mulan
- Book-based magic
- Fated mates
- Hidden Identity
- Love triangle (sort of)