Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Not yet published
Expected 4 Aug 26
Rate this book
Enter a world ruled by tyrants and thieves, where magic is outlawed, revolution brews, desire is dangerous, and an impossible cure may prove deadlier than the curse. This deluxe hardcover publication features stunning edges, illustrated endpapers, foil-stamped case cover, and special effects on the jacket.

Never run. Never bow. Never die.

Reya Connery became the Crimson Dagger, the most notorious thief in Rhiterra, by following a strict set of rules. There is no honor among thieves. A good blade is key to any negotiation. Only the dead keep secrets. And Reya has a secret that must be kept at all costs. But when a heist goes wrong on the eve of paying off her debt to a ruthless crime lord, Reya may need a new set of rules. And a lot of coin. Fast.

Enter Caelan Halcyon, an immortal warrior whose magic makes him a valuable target – if the curse inching closer to his heart doesn’t kill him first. There’s just one person who might be desperate enough to try and get their hands on the fabled cure in time to save his life, someone whose legend claims they can steal the Crimson Dagger. A male of honor, Caelan loathes everything the beautiful, cocky thief represents, yet knows that Reya is his last hope for survival.

Their search takes them to the edge of the known world, where Reya discovers that there is far more at stake than her and Caelan’s own lives. Now, Reya must confront deadly foes, her growing attraction to the immortal who is as lethal as his jawline is perfect, and the rage she’s spent a lifetime trying to bury. This time, her daggers aren’t going to cut it, and the fate of all magic-born hangs in the balance.

Introducing an epic, slow burn enemies-to-lovers romantasy novel about a heroine forged in steel and rage, and the cursed immortal who might turn out to be as much her salvation as she is his, perfect for fans of Danielle L. Jensen and Callie Hart.

432 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication August 4, 2026

8 people are currently reading
6790 people want to read

About the author

Taylor J. LaRue

2 books50 followers
Taylor J. LaRue began her career as a journalist in the Windy City. Now she lives in the Pacific Northwest with her high school sweetheart turned husband, their tiny human tyrant, and one very soggy puppy. Steelborn is her debut novel.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
15 (68%)
4 stars
7 (31%)
3 stars
0 (0%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
Profile Image for Stephanie G.
86 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
February 8, 2026
this was sooo good I can't wait to find out what happens next I do love a well written female thief/killer. Great romance too with a strong male lead while not taking anything from the strong female lead. Just fanrastic
12 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
February 25, 2026
Review of Edelweiss DRC

Glorious and spellbinding. Two words I haven't used to describe a fantasy in a long time. A rich return to true fantasy. May masterpieces such as this take back over the genre rather than tropes. Characters, worldbuilding, and twists worth having. Lady LaRue has earned her Steel. 5.5 🌟 stars.
Profile Image for Kayley.
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 14, 2026
A sensational debut packed full of everything I could ever want in a fantasy!! Sweeping and immersive, Steelborn sucked me in from the very first page. Reya is fierce and feisty and bold, I loved her tenacity and fire. And Caelan might just be my new favourite book boyfriend! They have the perfect slow burn with some of my favourite tropes. I loved everything about Steelborn, and I can't wait to see what comes next!
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.