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The Girl Behind the Iron Gate
In the kingdom of Aurelia, magic means power. The elite wield it without consequence, while those born without are left to struggle in shadow—raw, unrefined, and overlooked. For Greta, a sheltered but determined young woman, life has always been about protecting her younger sister.
But when tragedy strikes, Greta is torn from her family and forced into the hands of the ruthless ruling class. Conscripted into the military, she soon finds herself cast into a crucible of blood, flame, and torment, where every challenge is designed to break her—and every rival is out for blood.
As the trials push her beyond her limits, secrets long buried rise to the surface, sparking dangerous abilities and reshaping everything she thought she knew about herself, her family, and the world she must survive in. With her sister’s life on the line, strange feelings stirring within her, and an officer whose watchful eyes hide secrets of their own, Greta must decide how much of herself she is willing to sacrifice.
Like metal thrust into flame, she will be beaten, tested, and remade in fire. But will she emerge tempered into strength—or shattered beyond repair?
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
“...Beautifully written and an unforgettable read. I can’t wait for book 2!”
“Dark, enchanting, and utterly unpredictable-this story doesn’t just invite you into its world, it consumes you.”
“TGBTIG had me laughing, crying, cringing, and scared af on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait for book 2!!!”
“This book is thoughtfully laid out, well written, and packed with genuine humor.”
“If I could give more than 5 stars here I would. I am obsessed with this book...I need book 2 like I need air.”
But when tragedy strikes, Greta is torn from her family and forced into the hands of the ruthless ruling class. Conscripted into the military, she soon finds herself cast into a crucible of blood, flame, and torment, where every challenge is designed to break her—and every rival is out for blood.
As the trials push her beyond her limits, secrets long buried rise to the surface, sparking dangerous abilities and reshaping everything she thought she knew about herself, her family, and the world she must survive in. With her sister’s life on the line, strange feelings stirring within her, and an officer whose watchful eyes hide secrets of their own, Greta must decide how much of herself she is willing to sacrifice.
Like metal thrust into flame, she will be beaten, tested, and remade in fire. But will she emerge tempered into strength—or shattered beyond repair?
WHAT READERS ARE SAYING
“...Beautifully written and an unforgettable read. I can’t wait for book 2!”
“Dark, enchanting, and utterly unpredictable-this story doesn’t just invite you into its world, it consumes you.”
“TGBTIG had me laughing, crying, cringing, and scared af on the edge of my seat. I can’t wait for book 2!!!”
“This book is thoughtfully laid out, well written, and packed with genuine humor.”
“If I could give more than 5 stars here I would. I am obsessed with this book...I need book 2 like I need air.”
- GenresRomantasy
746 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
10 people are currently reading
183 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
November 29, 2025
I was able to read The Girl Behind the Iron Gate as an ARC. I went into this blind and now my eyes have been opened!! I could not put this down. What an incredible debut novel! The world building, incredible I felt like I was there.
Greta the FMC is conscripted into Stachtenbaste a military training camp where she is forced to train and become a soldier. While there she has a chance to win her freedom back. Here she learns about family secrets and who she is. I absolutely loved reading the growth development in this character. The trials that she has to go through left me on the edge of my seat. I stayed up past my bedtime many nights because I couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happens!
The MMC Rafe is an arrogant SOB and I loved every minute of it! The banter between the 2 had me laughing and kicking my feet!
Who knew a Raven was so wise!!! I loved Roan! I don’t know how many times I highlighted his quotes!!
The cliffhanger at the end ugh!!!!!!!!!😣 I looked at my kindle and said that’s it WTF!! LOL… I need the second book now!! I can’t wait to continue reading this story!
Greta the FMC is conscripted into Stachtenbaste a military training camp where she is forced to train and become a soldier. While there she has a chance to win her freedom back. Here she learns about family secrets and who she is. I absolutely loved reading the growth development in this character. The trials that she has to go through left me on the edge of my seat. I stayed up past my bedtime many nights because I couldn’t put it down. I had to find out what happens!
The MMC Rafe is an arrogant SOB and I loved every minute of it! The banter between the 2 had me laughing and kicking my feet!
Who knew a Raven was so wise!!! I loved Roan! I don’t know how many times I highlighted his quotes!!
The cliffhanger at the end ugh!!!!!!!!!😣 I looked at my kindle and said that’s it WTF!! LOL… I need the second book now!! I can’t wait to continue reading this story!
October 25, 2025
If you love playful banter, witty humor, and a thrilling ride of an adventure, this book will rock your shelves in 2026. The storyline strikes the perfect balance between intentionality and fun, with characters and a world I’ve grown genuinely fond of. It’s one of those reads that lingers in your mind, not just for its craftsmanship, but for the sheer emotion of the experience. Highly recommend!
October 6, 2025
As someone new to the fantasy genre, this book was the perfect introduction! You follow a brave heroine through thrilling adventures filled with nonstop action (I truly couldn’t put it down), powerful moral lessons, deep companionship, and heartwarming friendship. Their world is rich with magic and challenges where fairness isn’t always the norm, making every twist feel real and engaging.
I couldn’t get enough of it and I 100% recommend it! What a gem for a debut novel. Thank you, Hannah, for transporting us into this incredible new kingdom. I can’t wait for book #2!
I couldn’t get enough of it and I 100% recommend it! What a gem for a debut novel. Thank you, Hannah, for transporting us into this incredible new kingdom. I can’t wait for book #2!
January 11, 2026
The Dyslexic Reviewer - Spoil Free Reviews
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @hannahstandhaft
POV: Single 1st Person
Gene: Romantasy
Triggers: Open door, violence, blood, death, etc.
Read Time: 13-19 hours
Expected Publishing Date: 1/13/2026
❤️ World Building: The world building was very detailed. I found it a little too detailed, and found myself skimming through some of those details while reading to get back to the meat of the story, which was just amazing.
❤️ The Characters: Greta is an relatable older sister stopping at nothing to try and save her sister from the Duke. She’s justifiably mad at the things that have been kept from her, especially when that knowledge could have helped her tremendously in protecting her sister. Aric is still a mystery to me, I do not think we have fully dived into his story yet, and I’m looking forward to learning more. Rafe is an interesting Character that I've been enjoying reading about, but I’ll keep his secrets so you can enjoy him fully when you read the book.
❤️ The Story: The story was just amazeballs! It holds its mysteries well and there is still so much more to find out! The cliffhanger ending was both incredible and a killer since I just NEED TO KNOW what happens next!
❤️🔥Overall: The story was just incredible, and this is a book well worth the time to read. Don’t skip it, please read it!!!
🐦⬛ Raven Fact Inspired by Roan: Often associated with the creepy and macabre, ravens are actually affectionate and emotional birds. They mate for life, and partners serenade each other with gentle coos for comfort. Like crows, they also engage in allopreening, grooming each others’ feathers as a way to strengthen their bond. (www.audubon.org)
I was gifted this book free for my honest opinion, you know the drill 😉
Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Author: @hannahstandhaft
POV: Single 1st Person
Gene: Romantasy
Triggers: Open door, violence, blood, death, etc.
Read Time: 13-19 hours
Expected Publishing Date: 1/13/2026
❤️ World Building: The world building was very detailed. I found it a little too detailed, and found myself skimming through some of those details while reading to get back to the meat of the story, which was just amazing.
❤️ The Characters: Greta is an relatable older sister stopping at nothing to try and save her sister from the Duke. She’s justifiably mad at the things that have been kept from her, especially when that knowledge could have helped her tremendously in protecting her sister. Aric is still a mystery to me, I do not think we have fully dived into his story yet, and I’m looking forward to learning more. Rafe is an interesting Character that I've been enjoying reading about, but I’ll keep his secrets so you can enjoy him fully when you read the book.
❤️ The Story: The story was just amazeballs! It holds its mysteries well and there is still so much more to find out! The cliffhanger ending was both incredible and a killer since I just NEED TO KNOW what happens next!
❤️🔥Overall: The story was just incredible, and this is a book well worth the time to read. Don’t skip it, please read it!!!
🐦⬛ Raven Fact Inspired by Roan: Often associated with the creepy and macabre, ravens are actually affectionate and emotional birds. They mate for life, and partners serenade each other with gentle coos for comfort. Like crows, they also engage in allopreening, grooming each others’ feathers as a way to strengthen their bond. (www.audubon.org)
I was gifted this book free for my honest opinion, you know the drill 😉
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶
Pub day: January 13, 2026
🐦⬛ Unlikely heroine
⚔️ Deadly trials and games
🐦⬛ Love triangle
⚔️ Secrets and lies
🐦⬛ Reluctant allies
⚔️ Magic
🐦⬛ False imprisonment
"Bravery is easy when roaring into battle with an army at your back. Facing what you fear, with just one voice, and making yourself heard, still, is true courage."
I'll be honest.. I was initially intimidated by a 700+ page debut novel. But dammmmnnnn...I want more now 😅 Standhaft weaves such a compelling story from the absolute start of the book through to the very end. And that cliffhanger? Rude and hateful, and I also kinda loved it 🤭
The Girl Behind the Iron Gate follows Greta in her quest to save her younger sister despite being conscripted to military service. A series of deadly trials could win her freedom from military service and get her back to her sister, but she has to beat out far more prepared cadets. And everyone is committed to winning their freedom.
I felt ALL the things reading this book - I laughed, I cried, I kicked my feet like a ridiculous schoolgirl. I also stared at a wall and couldn't quite find words after the ending but you know that's the mark of a book that makes you feel, and I guarantee this one will!
Seriously, pick this one up because we NEED to talk about it!
🌶
Pub day: January 13, 2026
🐦⬛ Unlikely heroine
⚔️ Deadly trials and games
🐦⬛ Love triangle
⚔️ Secrets and lies
🐦⬛ Reluctant allies
⚔️ Magic
🐦⬛ False imprisonment
"Bravery is easy when roaring into battle with an army at your back. Facing what you fear, with just one voice, and making yourself heard, still, is true courage."
I'll be honest.. I was initially intimidated by a 700+ page debut novel. But dammmmnnnn...I want more now 😅 Standhaft weaves such a compelling story from the absolute start of the book through to the very end. And that cliffhanger? Rude and hateful, and I also kinda loved it 🤭
The Girl Behind the Iron Gate follows Greta in her quest to save her younger sister despite being conscripted to military service. A series of deadly trials could win her freedom from military service and get her back to her sister, but she has to beat out far more prepared cadets. And everyone is committed to winning their freedom.
I felt ALL the things reading this book - I laughed, I cried, I kicked my feet like a ridiculous schoolgirl. I also stared at a wall and couldn't quite find words after the ending but you know that's the mark of a book that makes you feel, and I guarantee this one will!
Seriously, pick this one up because we NEED to talk about it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 🌟
2🌶
I wasnt sure what to expect with this book, but it didn't disappoint
So many heart breaking moments but also alot of life lessons.
Oh and did I mention a Love Triangle. yes thats right you heard me.....
So bloody good. But what a cliff hanger. Need book 2......
Favourite Quote
"Perhaps try lowering your voice so you sound less like a congested poodle".....Rafe
2🌶
I wasnt sure what to expect with this book, but it didn't disappoint
So many heart breaking moments but also alot of life lessons.
Oh and did I mention a Love Triangle. yes thats right you heard me.....
So bloody good. But what a cliff hanger. Need book 2......
Favourite Quote
"Perhaps try lowering your voice so you sound less like a congested poodle".....Rafe
Review of advance copy received from Author
THIS IS SUCH A PHENOMENAL READ AND NEEDS TO BE TALKED ABOUT MORE!! If I could give more than 5 stars here I would. I am obsessed with this book and I am so grateful Instagram worked its algorithm to recommend it to me. I’m not going to lie, when Instagram recommended it to me the first thing that drew me in was the cover, and then I read the description and it had me sold at deadly trials. This book is over 720ish pages and I devoured it in about a day and a half, mad when I had to put it down to sleep.
This is Book 1 in the Conspiracy of Shadows series. I don’t even know where to begin and unsure if I’ll recover from this book hangover. The book starts out with surprising entertainment that had me giggle and hooked right away because any book that starts like this has to be good (also has to be your kind of humor). The FMC Greta reminds me of myself, so she was instantly relatable, and her sister Agnethe, who she has always tried to protect from harsh realities, are thrust into chaos and their world thrown upside down right from the beginning and the action-packed journey doesn’t stop until the end. There are darker elements so make sure to check the TWs. Hannah’s writing is beautiful and flows well. There were no plot holes and the pacing was perfect for a clear understanding of the story. It is so well thought out. The world building is immersive and creative and makes we want to steer clear of being on the wrong side and without magic in Aurelia.
The characters are written well and the development throughout adds more depth and understanding. I loved all the characters, good and/or evil. I thought each one brought the story to life in its complexity. My favorites are Greta (of course), Otto, Rafe, Dagmar, and Roan. I felt myself relate a lot to Greta, Rafe and Dagmar in different ways.
The magic system was unique and creative. I’m excited to learn more about it and see more of it in the next book. There were plot twists and turns, SO many secrets, betrayals, strength, grief, love, protection, and survival all packed into an emotional rollercoaster of a story in the best way possible. It ends on a cliffhanger that had me yell out loud OMG WTF. It’s a longer book, so when you get to this point you’re thinking to yourself there’s more to the story and it can’t possible end here, but it does and it’s devastating! I need Book 2 like I need air. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!
Thank you so incredibly much to the author for an advanced reader copy. I am voluntarily leaving a review, and all thoughts are my own.
This is Book 1 in the Conspiracy of Shadows series. I don’t even know where to begin and unsure if I’ll recover from this book hangover. The book starts out with surprising entertainment that had me giggle and hooked right away because any book that starts like this has to be good (also has to be your kind of humor). The FMC Greta reminds me of myself, so she was instantly relatable, and her sister Agnethe, who she has always tried to protect from harsh realities, are thrust into chaos and their world thrown upside down right from the beginning and the action-packed journey doesn’t stop until the end. There are darker elements so make sure to check the TWs. Hannah’s writing is beautiful and flows well. There were no plot holes and the pacing was perfect for a clear understanding of the story. It is so well thought out. The world building is immersive and creative and makes we want to steer clear of being on the wrong side and without magic in Aurelia.
The characters are written well and the development throughout adds more depth and understanding. I loved all the characters, good and/or evil. I thought each one brought the story to life in its complexity. My favorites are Greta (of course), Otto, Rafe, Dagmar, and Roan. I felt myself relate a lot to Greta, Rafe and Dagmar in different ways.
The magic system was unique and creative. I’m excited to learn more about it and see more of it in the next book. There were plot twists and turns, SO many secrets, betrayals, strength, grief, love, protection, and survival all packed into an emotional rollercoaster of a story in the best way possible. It ends on a cliffhanger that had me yell out loud OMG WTF. It’s a longer book, so when you get to this point you’re thinking to yourself there’s more to the story and it can’t possible end here, but it does and it’s devastating! I need Book 2 like I need air. I HIGHLY recommend this book!!
Thank you so incredibly much to the author for an advanced reader copy. I am voluntarily leaving a review, and all thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this story with no expectations, but boy did this book delivery on every front. For a debut novel this indie author has raised the bar. Lately it seems that every Romantasy that comes out deal with the same premise, but this one has a fresh approach to the fantasy genre.
Living in a world where having magic means power, Greta has one focus and one focus only: protecting her younger sister. When faced with tragedy Greta is forced from her family and into the hands of the ruling class. The elite wields power without consequence and those without power are used as pawns in their schemes. Determined to protect her sister at all costs she finds herself conscripted into the military simply because she wouldn't bow to the ruling class demands.
Greta like many other conscripts is given the chance to fight for their freedom but it comes with a lofty cost. 8 deadly trials with only one champion to win. Greta has her work cut out for her becasue she is no fighter but she is cunning and very intelligent where it matters most. Greta shows impressive growth throughout this story. As her military training nearly break her and the trials work to destroy her mind, body and spirit, Greta soon began to develop abilities she never knew she had as well as unraveling secrets about her family she was never privy to learn. As magic begins to unfurl within Greta she finds herself bonded to a Raven who has been waiting for someone from her lineage to call out to him and when Roan (the Raven) and Greta connect it is endearing and comical at best. Roan was the real MVP of the story because he helps Greta grow into the formidable woman, she never knew she could be.
On this journey you will cheer for Greta, shake your head at Greta, kick your feet giggling at her interactions with others (especially her love interest), and most of all you will feel connected to Greta as she peels the complex layers of her life and family secrets in search for the truth.
I read all 722 pages in 2 days, and I cannot wait for book 2 because that cliffhanger was brutal yet satisfying.
Expect to Find:
Family Secrets
Magical Awakening
Sarcastic Witty Familiar
Prejudice
Magic Wielders
Military Conscription
Am I My Sister's Keeper Vibes
Slow Burn
Deadly Trials
Enemies-to-Lovers
Thank you Hannah Standhaft for a gifted copy. I need book 2 like RIGHT NOW!!!!
Living in a world where having magic means power, Greta has one focus and one focus only: protecting her younger sister. When faced with tragedy Greta is forced from her family and into the hands of the ruling class. The elite wields power without consequence and those without power are used as pawns in their schemes. Determined to protect her sister at all costs she finds herself conscripted into the military simply because she wouldn't bow to the ruling class demands.
Greta like many other conscripts is given the chance to fight for their freedom but it comes with a lofty cost. 8 deadly trials with only one champion to win. Greta has her work cut out for her becasue she is no fighter but she is cunning and very intelligent where it matters most. Greta shows impressive growth throughout this story. As her military training nearly break her and the trials work to destroy her mind, body and spirit, Greta soon began to develop abilities she never knew she had as well as unraveling secrets about her family she was never privy to learn. As magic begins to unfurl within Greta she finds herself bonded to a Raven who has been waiting for someone from her lineage to call out to him and when Roan (the Raven) and Greta connect it is endearing and comical at best. Roan was the real MVP of the story because he helps Greta grow into the formidable woman, she never knew she could be.
On this journey you will cheer for Greta, shake your head at Greta, kick your feet giggling at her interactions with others (especially her love interest), and most of all you will feel connected to Greta as she peels the complex layers of her life and family secrets in search for the truth.
I read all 722 pages in 2 days, and I cannot wait for book 2 because that cliffhanger was brutal yet satisfying.
Expect to Find:
Family Secrets
Magical Awakening
Sarcastic Witty Familiar
Prejudice
Magic Wielders
Military Conscription
Am I My Sister's Keeper Vibes
Slow Burn
Deadly Trials
Enemies-to-Lovers
Thank you Hannah Standhaft for a gifted copy. I need book 2 like RIGHT NOW!!!!
November 22, 2025
The Girl Behind The Iron Gate is a dark, gripping and unpredicatable story with humorous one liners that pop up so unexpectedly and are well placed that it will have you laughing out loud in the oddest moments. It has a fresh and fascinating magic system that will leave readers questioning what will happen next.
The world building is immersive, intricately detailed and alive, from the language to the scenery everything is absolutely captivating. The opening sentence will have you hooked from the very start and i'm not going to lie, literally had me shouting FACTS! :-)
Greta was always the quiet one who wanted to live peacefully and protect her sister. But tragedy strikes and Greta is conscripted into the military and forced to train, forced to be a solider and forced to be away from her sister. Discovering enemies and well kept secrets, leaves Greta fighting for her freedom from Stachtenbaste, a place that is as inescapable as well as it is hostile.
The FMC is a character that is flawed and very aware of those flaws, she has soft features with generous curves which in my opion makes her completly relateable. She's compassionate but also learns to say what she thinks and essentialy gets some backbone. She's determined and isn't afraid to fight for those she cares about the most. I loved reading her character growth over the course of the book and can't wait to see how she developes in book 2.
This is a reluctant allies to lovers story with a true slow burn and the MMC is a character I loved from the moment he walked onto the page. He's arrogant and at times makes you feel a little conflicted on whether you want to hit him on the head or throw yourself at his feet, either would be appropriate. But he is also sweet in unexpected ways that will have you giddy and kicking your feet.
The side characters are memorable, including the ones that are only on a few pages and left me cackling for hours.
This is one book I would love to see come to life on the screen. It is beautifully written and an unforgetable read. The ending will have you on the edge of your seat and finishes on one hell of a cliffhanger.
I can't wait for book 2!
The world building is immersive, intricately detailed and alive, from the language to the scenery everything is absolutely captivating. The opening sentence will have you hooked from the very start and i'm not going to lie, literally had me shouting FACTS! :-)
Greta was always the quiet one who wanted to live peacefully and protect her sister. But tragedy strikes and Greta is conscripted into the military and forced to train, forced to be a solider and forced to be away from her sister. Discovering enemies and well kept secrets, leaves Greta fighting for her freedom from Stachtenbaste, a place that is as inescapable as well as it is hostile.
The FMC is a character that is flawed and very aware of those flaws, she has soft features with generous curves which in my opion makes her completly relateable. She's compassionate but also learns to say what she thinks and essentialy gets some backbone. She's determined and isn't afraid to fight for those she cares about the most. I loved reading her character growth over the course of the book and can't wait to see how she developes in book 2.
This is a reluctant allies to lovers story with a true slow burn and the MMC is a character I loved from the moment he walked onto the page. He's arrogant and at times makes you feel a little conflicted on whether you want to hit him on the head or throw yourself at his feet, either would be appropriate. But he is also sweet in unexpected ways that will have you giddy and kicking your feet.
The side characters are memorable, including the ones that are only on a few pages and left me cackling for hours.
This is one book I would love to see come to life on the screen. It is beautifully written and an unforgetable read. The ending will have you on the edge of your seat and finishes on one hell of a cliffhanger.
I can't wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🗡🗡🗡 The Girl Behind The Iron Gate 🗡🗡🗡
🗡 Hidden Magic
🗡 Enemies-to-almost-lovers
🗡 Found Family
🗡 Deadly Trials
🗡 Slow Burn
Spice: 🌶
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We are straight out of the gates, with this opening line
"Sometimes, a woman just needs to find the bliss of sweet release not brought by her own hand."
Greta is an intelligent and quick witted FMC who gains strength and courage throughout the book and she tests herself to her limits in the trials and learns more about her heritage. She holds herself to impossibly high standards and will do and endure anything to protect those she loves.
I really enjoyed Dagmar's character and how she pushes Greta to be the best she can be. Although Dagmar comes off cold, she's a fierce friend in an impossible situation.
Cyneric is the breath of fresh air and light comedy that is essential for surviving the cruel realities behind the iron gate.
I am team Rafe all the way. The way he calls Greta Kunnel (princess) and gets under her skin with his teasing is brilliant. I love a tourtured soul just desperate to be loved and feel like there is so much more to come from Rafe in the next book. After a brief glimpse behind the walls Rafe crafts around himself so carefully, for him to be stabbed in the back again, and by the same blade no less has my heart aching for him. Chapter 48, I'm looking at you.
This is giving huge Hunger Games vibes and I cant wait to read more in the next book and see the corrupt leaders brought to justice. If you like reading about political corruption, deadly trials with found family vibes this one's for you.
🗡 Hidden Magic
🗡 Enemies-to-almost-lovers
🗡 Found Family
🗡 Deadly Trials
🗡 Slow Burn
Spice: 🌶
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We are straight out of the gates, with this opening line
"Sometimes, a woman just needs to find the bliss of sweet release not brought by her own hand."
Greta is an intelligent and quick witted FMC who gains strength and courage throughout the book and she tests herself to her limits in the trials and learns more about her heritage. She holds herself to impossibly high standards and will do and endure anything to protect those she loves.
I really enjoyed Dagmar's character and how she pushes Greta to be the best she can be. Although Dagmar comes off cold, she's a fierce friend in an impossible situation.
Cyneric is the breath of fresh air and light comedy that is essential for surviving the cruel realities behind the iron gate.
I am team Rafe all the way. The way he calls Greta Kunnel (princess) and gets under her skin with his teasing is brilliant. I love a tourtured soul just desperate to be loved and feel like there is so much more to come from Rafe in the next book. After a brief glimpse behind the walls Rafe crafts around himself so carefully, for him to be stabbed in the back again, and by the same blade no less has my heart aching for him. Chapter 48, I'm looking at you.
This is giving huge Hunger Games vibes and I cant wait to read more in the next book and see the corrupt leaders brought to justice. If you like reading about political corruption, deadly trials with found family vibes this one's for you.
Review of advance copy
The Girl Behind the Iron Gate is a story that embraces grief, fear, growth, vulnerability, and resilience. The FMC is flawed and human, laying her emotions bare on each page. Her inner monologue mirrors what a real person thrust into the circumstances of the story would feel and was humorous and heartbreaking at the right times. The pacing of the story was perfect and the worldbuilding was incredibly immersive. I really enjoyed learning about the magic system and am excited to learn more about the FMC’s magic in future books as well!
The MMCs - yes, that’s plural 👀 - brought great tension and both added to the story and the stakes. The spice was well-placed and earned, and I appreciated how the FMC navigated everything with both of them. The trials were super interesting and unique, and the training sessions were refreshingly realistic. I really liked all of the side characters too and hope we learn more about their backgrounds in subsequent books. The trauma-bonding found family was well done!
Also, wait until you meet Roan - the perfect raven companion whose wisdom is welcomed, even in riddle-form. I need more Roan being Roan 🤣
This story really captivated my interest from the first page, and I can’t wait to see how our characters navigate the end of the trials. That cliffhanger though … I need more 💔
The MMCs - yes, that’s plural 👀 - brought great tension and both added to the story and the stakes. The spice was well-placed and earned, and I appreciated how the FMC navigated everything with both of them. The trials were super interesting and unique, and the training sessions were refreshingly realistic. I really liked all of the side characters too and hope we learn more about their backgrounds in subsequent books. The trauma-bonding found family was well done!
Also, wait until you meet Roan - the perfect raven companion whose wisdom is welcomed, even in riddle-form. I need more Roan being Roan 🤣
This story really captivated my interest from the first page, and I can’t wait to see how our characters navigate the end of the trials. That cliffhanger though … I need more 💔
October 6, 2025
Dark, enchanting, and utterly unpredictable — this story doesn’t just invite you into its world, it consumes you.
From the very first chapter, The Girl Behind the Iron Gate stands out as a masterclass in dark fantasy storytelling. The worldbuilding is so intricate and immersive that every detail feels alive — from the shadow-soaked scenarios to the twisted, beautiful logic of its magic system, which feels both ancient and startlingly fresh.
At the heart of it all is a main female character who shatters every mold. She’s flawed, defiant, and gloriously human — a protagonist who doesn’t bend to archetypes but breaks them, piece by piece. Watching her evolve as power, love, and survival collide is a rare kind of thrill.
And then there’s the enemies-to-lovers dynamic — slow-burning, charged, and delightfully cruel in all the right ways. Every confrontation is laced with tension, every alliance teeters on the edge of betrayal. It’s emotional alchemy at its finest.
In short, TGBTIG is the kind of story that lingers. It’s fierce, imaginative, and deeply haunting — a dark fantasy that redefines what the genre can be.
⭐ 5/5 — For readers who crave complexity, passion, and a touch of danger.
From the very first chapter, The Girl Behind the Iron Gate stands out as a masterclass in dark fantasy storytelling. The worldbuilding is so intricate and immersive that every detail feels alive — from the shadow-soaked scenarios to the twisted, beautiful logic of its magic system, which feels both ancient and startlingly fresh.
At the heart of it all is a main female character who shatters every mold. She’s flawed, defiant, and gloriously human — a protagonist who doesn’t bend to archetypes but breaks them, piece by piece. Watching her evolve as power, love, and survival collide is a rare kind of thrill.
And then there’s the enemies-to-lovers dynamic — slow-burning, charged, and delightfully cruel in all the right ways. Every confrontation is laced with tension, every alliance teeters on the edge of betrayal. It’s emotional alchemy at its finest.
In short, TGBTIG is the kind of story that lingers. It’s fierce, imaginative, and deeply haunting — a dark fantasy that redefines what the genre can be.
⭐ 5/5 — For readers who crave complexity, passion, and a touch of danger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Girl Behind the Iron Gate by Hannah Standhaft is a promising start to the Conspiracy of Shadows series, earning a 3-star rating from me. Set in the magical kingdom of Aurelia, where power and privilege are determined by one's magical abilities, the story follows a young woman challenging the rigid class system that defines her worth. The premise has real potential, blending court intrigue, forbidden romance, and a shadowy conspiracy that hints at larger stakes to come.
The worldbuilding shows creativity in its magic hierarchy and the raven companion Roan, who adds some memorable wisdom and wit to the narrative. However, the pacing drags in places, and I wanted more depth from the characters and emotional tension to fully invest in their journeys. Some plot threads feel underdeveloped, leaving room for growth in future books.
Overall, The Girl Behind the Iron Gate offers an intriguing setup for romantasy fans who enjoy class-divide stories and magical rebellions, with solid promise for the series ahead. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The worldbuilding shows creativity in its magic hierarchy and the raven companion Roan, who adds some memorable wisdom and wit to the narrative. However, the pacing drags in places, and I wanted more depth from the characters and emotional tension to fully invest in their journeys. Some plot threads feel underdeveloped, leaving room for growth in future books.
Overall, The Girl Behind the Iron Gate offers an intriguing setup for romantasy fans who enjoy class-divide stories and magical rebellions, with solid promise for the series ahead. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If I could rate this higher than a 5 I would!!
This book needs to be the next big book of 2026! It was AMAZING! It is a romantasy with games and trials with hidden powers and trainer/trainer relationships. This is a thicc lady but I found whenever I picked it up I had to force myself to put it down. If I didn’t have a job or was on vacation I probably could have finished it in one sitting and it is over 700pgs! Also I never thought I would find a book boyfriend that rivaled my Orion and Cain from the twisted sisters but Rafe may top the list! The infirmary scene with Rafe 😘. This also made me feel things as I related a lot to Greta and the journey she was taking to find herself and her worth. I am so glad I got a chance to read this as an ARC and I will be purchasing the book and I CANNOT wait until the next one because that ending oh man!!
This book needs to be the next big book of 2026! It was AMAZING! It is a romantasy with games and trials with hidden powers and trainer/trainer relationships. This is a thicc lady but I found whenever I picked it up I had to force myself to put it down. If I didn’t have a job or was on vacation I probably could have finished it in one sitting and it is over 700pgs! Also I never thought I would find a book boyfriend that rivaled my Orion and Cain from the twisted sisters but Rafe may top the list! The infirmary scene with Rafe 😘. This also made me feel things as I related a lot to Greta and the journey she was taking to find herself and her worth. I am so glad I got a chance to read this as an ARC and I will be purchasing the book and I CANNOT wait until the next one because that ending oh man!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What. A. Book. Big stories like this can sometimes lose track of threads in the story line, but not this story. Every time I started to wonder about a character or a plot line they were woven back into the story, making it clear how robust and intricate the worldbuilding is in this book. I loved all of the characters - even those without a ton of page time still feel decently fleshed out. The FMC's thought processes feel very realistic for a young, privileged, sheltered woman suddenly thrust into very different circumstances. I've also read a decent amount of books with the trials trope, and this is definitely one of the best versions with trials that make sense in the context of the world, match the purpose of the trials, and reflect people having reasonable abilities.
Now I'll just be over here counting the days to book 2 because THAT CLIFFHANGER ENDING WOW.
Now I'll just be over here counting the days to book 2 because THAT CLIFFHANGER ENDING WOW.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is thoughtfully laid out, well-written, and packed with genuine humor, which is sorely needed in this genre. TGBTIG is not your average romantasy novel, as other readers have stated. From the first page, Greta and her compatriots had me hooked and I couldn’t put the book down for the ~6 days it took me to read. Am really excited to follow Greta’s journey and dive deeper into the lore and backstory. I have so many unanswered questions but have faith that this was intentional and HS has a plan to unfold it all!
TGBTIG had me laughing, crying, cringeing, and scared af on the edge of my seat. Will definitely be doing a reread so I don’t miss any of the little details. I can’t wait for book 2!!!
TGBTIG had me laughing, crying, cringeing, and scared af on the edge of my seat. Will definitely be doing a reread so I don’t miss any of the little details. I can’t wait for book 2!!!
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