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The Fatesworn Saga #1
Scars Beneath a Serpent's Scales
Not yet published
Expected 26 Mar 26The first book in Nicole Platania's newest Romantic Fantasy series. House of Earth and Blood meets Heavenly Bodies in this tension-filled, sizzling slow burn start to The Fatesworn Saga. Full description to come.
The Fatesworn Saga takes place in the same world as Platania's Curse of Ophelia series but is a completely independent series with a brand new cast of characters. The series can be read in any order.
The Fatesworn Saga takes place in the same world as Platania's Curse of Ophelia series but is a completely independent series with a brand new cast of characters. The series can be read in any order.
570 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 26, 2026
157 people are currently reading
1886 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Platania
11 books420 followersNicole Platania was born and raised in Los Angeles and completed her B.A. in Communications at the University of California, Santa Barbara. After two years of working in social media marketing, she traded Santa Barbara beaches for the rainy magic of London, where she completed her Masters in Creative Writing at Birkbeck, University of London. Nicole harbors a love for broken and twisty characters, stories that feel like puzzles, and all things romance. She can always be found with a cup of coffee or glass of wine in hand, ready to discuss everything from celebrity gossip to your latest book theories.
Connect with her on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter as @bynicoleplatania or at www.nicoleplatania.com.
Connect with her on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter as @bynicoleplatania or at www.nicoleplatania.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 15, 2026
6⭐️ Update 03/15/2026
Now that I’ve caught my breath, I have more to say. I have not stopped thinking about this book since I have finished it over a week ago. I feel like this book is ingrained into my soul and will be my comfort book from now on. I am just enamored by every part of it and am already about to reread it with an advanced audiobook copy (& am giddy!!!!) If you are still sleeping on Nicole Platania’s books, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!! If u want me to be even more insufferable about them, I WILL (yes that is a threat). 10/10. No notes. I get more obsessed with each passing minute. I almost regret reading it because now normal books feel boring. God tier !!!!!
________
03/07/2026
Review of Advanced Copy from the author 💗 WOW WOW WOW. 🤯🤯 for once I am speechless. I need to take the weekend to process. 2 of my favorite lead characters I’ve ever read. Incredible romance. Insane plot & suspense. Lush world building. Unlike any romantasy I have ever read. The murder mystery was so well done it literally felt like an epic fantasy, a thriller, and a breathtaking slow burn romance all at the same time. The celestial magic is so freaking cool and unique. The romance is absolutely unmatched. No one writes a slow burn like Nicole Platania. I’m literally in awe right now I feel like I need to SCREAM !!!!! 5⭐️ OH MY GOD THIS BOOK
I feel out of breath after reading this (complimentary) . EVERYONE READ THIS NOW. I JUST HAVE TO TALK
Now that I’ve caught my breath, I have more to say. I have not stopped thinking about this book since I have finished it over a week ago. I feel like this book is ingrained into my soul and will be my comfort book from now on. I am just enamored by every part of it and am already about to reread it with an advanced audiobook copy (& am giddy!!!!) If you are still sleeping on Nicole Platania’s books, WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!! If u want me to be even more insufferable about them, I WILL (yes that is a threat). 10/10. No notes. I get more obsessed with each passing minute. I almost regret reading it because now normal books feel boring. God tier !!!!!
________
03/07/2026
Review of Advanced Copy from the author 💗 WOW WOW WOW. 🤯🤯 for once I am speechless. I need to take the weekend to process. 2 of my favorite lead characters I’ve ever read. Incredible romance. Insane plot & suspense. Lush world building. Unlike any romantasy I have ever read. The murder mystery was so well done it literally felt like an epic fantasy, a thriller, and a breathtaking slow burn romance all at the same time. The celestial magic is so freaking cool and unique. The romance is absolutely unmatched. No one writes a slow burn like Nicole Platania. I’m literally in awe right now I feel like I need to SCREAM !!!!! 5⭐️ OH MY GOD THIS BOOK
I feel out of breath after reading this (complimentary) . EVERYONE READ THIS NOW. I JUST HAVE TO TALK
Currently reading
March 16, 2026Soooo I would probably read this just for the cover and the character art. But also, it’s a romantasy murder mystery. AND this is my first ARC where I have the kindle & audiobook 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
every day since I have finished this book I wonder if this story is going to leave me, and I’m starting to believe it may just live within my bones forever. The perfect amalgemation of head spinning mystery and an unending yearning that aches in the undertones of each moment. I guarantee you this book will be a favorite of the year for you.
If you’re a romantic fantasy lover that also enjoys the heck out of criminal minds, this story was written SPECIFICALLY for you. A murder mystery set in an immersive celestial magic world that is as beautiful as it is haunting. With angels, fates, unique magic, murder, and the wonderful dynamic of reluctant allies, this book has everything you need.
Emmeline is an instructor at the academy, when women on the island begin going missing the Headmaster assigns her and the new sparring instructor, Roremar, to investigate. This begins a winding tale of intrigue and twists you won’t even begin to guess. All accompanied by the most delicious SLOWWWWWW burn (and I do mean slow) you will be flying through the pages to figure it all out. And pain. Keep in mind, you’re in for a world of pain.
No question this book is an all time favorite for me.
_____________________________________________
no official rating - beta read
I have no words to explain how this is one of my favorite books of all time already, the world isn’t ready
If you’re a romantic fantasy lover that also enjoys the heck out of criminal minds, this story was written SPECIFICALLY for you. A murder mystery set in an immersive celestial magic world that is as beautiful as it is haunting. With angels, fates, unique magic, murder, and the wonderful dynamic of reluctant allies, this book has everything you need.
Emmeline is an instructor at the academy, when women on the island begin going missing the Headmaster assigns her and the new sparring instructor, Roremar, to investigate. This begins a winding tale of intrigue and twists you won’t even begin to guess. All accompanied by the most delicious SLOWWWWWW burn (and I do mean slow) you will be flying through the pages to figure it all out. And pain. Keep in mind, you’re in for a world of pain.
No question this book is an all time favorite for me.
_____________________________________________
no official rating - beta read
I have no words to explain how this is one of my favorite books of all time already, the world isn’t ready
Review of advance copy received from Author
coming back around for an official review because I haven’t stopped thinking about this book since July 😀
THIS BOOK WAS EVERYTHING TO ME.
LORE! MYSTERY! ROMANCE! MAGIC! EASTER EGGS FROM THE CURSE OF OPHELIA! PAIN! HEARTBREAK! SPICE! YEEEAAARRRNNNINNNGGGGG!!!!!
I am such a murder mystery girlie and it feels like Nicole truly wrote this book for me. I have read so many thrillers and it is hard to keep me hooked at this point because so much can feel repetitive but SBASS knocked me off my feet. I was completely taken aback. I vividly remember pacing around my house while reading the last 10% of the book.
And then ON TOP of that? The fantasy was amazing. Nicole is so amazing at building a world that I felt so immersed from page 1. A dual POV romantic fantasy with some juicyyyyy slow burn (a no kissing rule!!!!!!!!!) and some insane twists— what more could you want!
Just know that I’ll be rereading this book the literal moment it releases because I already miss my babies 😌
THIS BOOK WAS EVERYTHING TO ME.
LORE! MYSTERY! ROMANCE! MAGIC! EASTER EGGS FROM THE CURSE OF OPHELIA! PAIN! HEARTBREAK! SPICE! YEEEAAARRRNNNINNNGGGGG!!!!!
I am such a murder mystery girlie and it feels like Nicole truly wrote this book for me. I have read so many thrillers and it is hard to keep me hooked at this point because so much can feel repetitive but SBASS knocked me off my feet. I was completely taken aback. I vividly remember pacing around my house while reading the last 10% of the book.
And then ON TOP of that? The fantasy was amazing. Nicole is so amazing at building a world that I felt so immersed from page 1. A dual POV romantic fantasy with some juicyyyyy slow burn (a no kissing rule!!!!!!!!!) and some insane twists— what more could you want!
Just know that I’ll be rereading this book the literal moment it releases because I already miss my babies 😌
February 24, 2026
ARC REVIEW - thank you Nicole for the eARC opportunity!
Emmeline and Roremar are my new OBSESSION. They are brought together to solve a mystery on the island of Lyra - women have been missing and unalived and they need to find the culprit. Both of them have responsibilities and walls up to the sky keeping everyone out - yet they are PERFECT for each other. They challenge each other and compliment what they are missing in their lives.
The plot had me hooked immediately and the gas didn’t let up until the ending. THE TWIST THOUGH? It was like twisting a knife in my heart and I am still reeling about it! And how the ending left things has me desperate for book two!
The magic in this part of the world is linked to Fates who share readings. It is unique and a breath of fresh air in the romantasy genre.
Roremar is an MMC who defines YEARNING. He is so DOWN BAD I was barking the whole time! What I adore about him is that he’s a family man, taking care of everyone and who takes care of him? His girlllllll 🥰
Emmeline is an FMC with secrets, but as they start to unravel they also show a vulnerability that is so relatable. She’s afraid to let anyone close to her and thinks that she is safer alone. Roremar refuses to accept this and she finds a safe haven.
This is easily my favorite read of the year so far and will easily become one of my favorite series of all time - yes I am that confident!!!!!!
Do not sleep on this amazing book!
Emmeline and Roremar are my new OBSESSION. They are brought together to solve a mystery on the island of Lyra - women have been missing and unalived and they need to find the culprit. Both of them have responsibilities and walls up to the sky keeping everyone out - yet they are PERFECT for each other. They challenge each other and compliment what they are missing in their lives.
The plot had me hooked immediately and the gas didn’t let up until the ending. THE TWIST THOUGH? It was like twisting a knife in my heart and I am still reeling about it! And how the ending left things has me desperate for book two!
The magic in this part of the world is linked to Fates who share readings. It is unique and a breath of fresh air in the romantasy genre.
Roremar is an MMC who defines YEARNING. He is so DOWN BAD I was barking the whole time! What I adore about him is that he’s a family man, taking care of everyone and who takes care of him? His girlllllll 🥰
Emmeline is an FMC with secrets, but as they start to unravel they also show a vulnerability that is so relatable. She’s afraid to let anyone close to her and thinks that she is safer alone. Roremar refuses to accept this and she finds a safe haven.
This is easily my favorite read of the year so far and will easily become one of my favorite series of all time - yes I am that confident!!!!!!
Do not sleep on this amazing book!
March 12, 2026
Thank you Nicole and Tantor for the ARC and ALC!
I have been SO excited for this one, because who doesn't love a murder mystery with a fantasy twist? I SURE DO! I LOVED Voyage of the Damned, so I was so looking forward to an adult version of the genre combo. And I had a GREAT time, I'm not going to lie.
For the audio--I really loved both narrators! I think they both fit their characters incredibly well and the performances were emotion inducing without being over acted. I DO think that the narration was on the slower side--I was listening at 2.5x speed, which is on the higher side for me for fantasy. Even at the high speed, it wasn't chipmunky or had a reduced quality. I think this is a great book to do an immersive read with (like I did), if that's your jam.
The story itself--Y'all, I had a great time. I love a good reluctant allies to besties/lovers trope, and I love when the nicknames start off as jabs and barbs and become terms of endearment. I even didn't mind the "we're both keeping information from each other" version of the miscommunication trope. It actually plays out really well in this, due to the murder mystery aspect of the story, so for once I wasn't screaming into the void about it.
This was a really fun who dunnit a la Law and Order with a fantasy spin! I think we could have leaned a bit more into the gore and severity of the crimes, but that's my horror brain speaking. If you haven't read Nicole's other series (The Curse of Ophelia), you might find the magic aspect of this book lacking, as the murder mystery takes priority over the fantasy element, but I definitely expect that to change in the next book!
This was SUCH a good time and I'm already so excited for the next book!
I have been SO excited for this one, because who doesn't love a murder mystery with a fantasy twist? I SURE DO! I LOVED Voyage of the Damned, so I was so looking forward to an adult version of the genre combo. And I had a GREAT time, I'm not going to lie.
For the audio--I really loved both narrators! I think they both fit their characters incredibly well and the performances were emotion inducing without being over acted. I DO think that the narration was on the slower side--I was listening at 2.5x speed, which is on the higher side for me for fantasy. Even at the high speed, it wasn't chipmunky or had a reduced quality. I think this is a great book to do an immersive read with (like I did), if that's your jam.
The story itself--Y'all, I had a great time. I love a good reluctant allies to besties/lovers trope, and I love when the nicknames start off as jabs and barbs and become terms of endearment. I even didn't mind the "we're both keeping information from each other" version of the miscommunication trope. It actually plays out really well in this, due to the murder mystery aspect of the story, so for once I wasn't screaming into the void about it.
This was a really fun who dunnit a la Law and Order with a fantasy spin! I think we could have leaned a bit more into the gore and severity of the crimes, but that's my horror brain speaking. If you haven't read Nicole's other series (The Curse of Ophelia), you might find the magic aspect of this book lacking, as the murder mystery takes priority over the fantasy element, but I definitely expect that to change in the next book!
This was SUCH a good time and I'm already so excited for the next book!
March 12, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
“what are you looking at, reckless?”
“you, emmeline. i am looking at you. way more than i should be.”
this was described as heavenly bodies meets crescent city and it was exactly that!!!
the world building and magic system was so unique, i did find it hard to follow at times which took me out of the story during parts but it still felt so immersive and it was so beautifully written.
the murder mystery element was incredible and it constantly had me trying to think who was responsible and i was completely shocked by the plot twist!!!
finally i can’t finish this review without mentioning our gorgeous emmeline and roremar. i loved emmeline from the start and she never pissed me off which can usually happen with fmcs in romantasy books so this is a huge win! roremar is our protective king and the mouth on him??? my gosh. there were so many times my heart broke for him he carries so much.
THE SLOW BURN WAS SOOOO SLOW AND IT WAS PERFECT.
“before i met you, emmeline, my life was full, but it was cramped. but something about being with you flipped a latch. it’s like you expanded all this room in my lungs i didn’t know i had.”
i managed to get an ALC whilst reading this so i did an immersive read for the last 10 chapters or so and the narrators really brought this story to life.
the ending of this broke me and i need book 2 in my hands asap 💔
thank you so much nicole for the eARC!
“what are you looking at, reckless?”
“you, emmeline. i am looking at you. way more than i should be.”
this was described as heavenly bodies meets crescent city and it was exactly that!!!
the world building and magic system was so unique, i did find it hard to follow at times which took me out of the story during parts but it still felt so immersive and it was so beautifully written.
the murder mystery element was incredible and it constantly had me trying to think who was responsible and i was completely shocked by the plot twist!!!
finally i can’t finish this review without mentioning our gorgeous emmeline and roremar. i loved emmeline from the start and she never pissed me off which can usually happen with fmcs in romantasy books so this is a huge win! roremar is our protective king and the mouth on him??? my gosh. there were so many times my heart broke for him he carries so much.
THE SLOW BURN WAS SOOOO SLOW AND IT WAS PERFECT.
“before i met you, emmeline, my life was full, but it was cramped. but something about being with you flipped a latch. it’s like you expanded all this room in my lungs i didn’t know i had.”
i managed to get an ALC whilst reading this so i did an immersive read for the last 10 chapters or so and the narrators really brought this story to life.
the ending of this broke me and i need book 2 in my hands asap 💔
thank you so much nicole for the eARC!
February 28, 2026
review to come but i fear no other fantasy book will top this for me all year
March 14, 2026
review of advance copy received from the author ♡
“Goodnight, Huntress” “Goodnight, Reckless”
I just binged the last 50% in one day… Honestly, that tells you all you need to know.
Jokes aside, where do I even begin with this masterpiece?? Nicole has done it yet again!
If you love :
💫 reluctant allies
🌌 a mürder mystery
💫 meddling fates & celestial magic
🌌 a SLOWburn (and I mean a REAL one)
💫 prophecies
🌌 gut-wrenching plot twists
Look no further, this book has everything you could possibly want
The lore, the found family (truly some of the best I’ve ever read. Nicole always does this trope perfectly), the jungle/academy setting, star-crossed lovers, you cannot ask for anything better! It’s the kind of story that pulls you in completely
This plot had me second-guessing every theory I came up with. I fear I need to reread this already, because I’m convinced there are so many details I’ll notice the second time around.
To Nicole, your stories, your characters, your imagination never fail to fully transport me into your universe, to escape. Your writing and your kindness are truly such gifts.
Thank you ♡♡
This book releases March 26, so make sure to run (not walk) to preorder it on Amazon or support your local indie bookstore - you won’t regret it
Thank you so much to Nicole and her team for the eARC and the chance to dive back into Nicole’s world, this time in the Constellation Isles 🏝️✨
P.S : I am OBSESSED with their nicknames for each other!
“Goodnight, Huntress” “Goodnight, Reckless”
I just binged the last 50% in one day… Honestly, that tells you all you need to know.
Jokes aside, where do I even begin with this masterpiece?? Nicole has done it yet again!
If you love :
💫 reluctant allies
🌌 a mürder mystery
💫 meddling fates & celestial magic
🌌 a SLOWburn (and I mean a REAL one)
💫 prophecies
🌌 gut-wrenching plot twists
Look no further, this book has everything you could possibly want
The lore, the found family (truly some of the best I’ve ever read. Nicole always does this trope perfectly), the jungle/academy setting, star-crossed lovers, you cannot ask for anything better! It’s the kind of story that pulls you in completely
This plot had me second-guessing every theory I came up with. I fear I need to reread this already, because I’m convinced there are so many details I’ll notice the second time around.
To Nicole, your stories, your characters, your imagination never fail to fully transport me into your universe, to escape. Your writing and your kindness are truly such gifts.
Thank you ♡♡
This book releases March 26, so make sure to run (not walk) to preorder it on Amazon or support your local indie bookstore - you won’t regret it
Thank you so much to Nicole and her team for the eARC and the chance to dive back into Nicole’s world, this time in the Constellation Isles 🏝️✨
P.S : I am OBSESSED with their nicknames for each other!
March 13, 2026
**Review of Advanced Copy from the author. All opinions are my own**
Just finished SBASS and honestly the slow burn was so worth the wait. The story builds at a really good pace and the romance develops naturally instead of feeling rushed, which I appreciated a lot. On top of that, the murder mystery kept things interesting the whole time, and the plot twist definitely caught me off guard. I also loved the celestial magic element, it added a really cool layer to the world and made the story feel unique. Overall it was a great mix of mystery, romance, and magic.
Just finished SBASS and honestly the slow burn was so worth the wait. The story builds at a really good pace and the romance develops naturally instead of feeling rushed, which I appreciated a lot. On top of that, the murder mystery kept things interesting the whole time, and the plot twist definitely caught me off guard. I also loved the celestial magic element, it added a really cool layer to the world and made the story feel unique. Overall it was a great mix of mystery, romance, and magic.
March 11, 2026
help I will be living here from now on
March 16, 2026
The clock blinks 4:37 AM as I slowly bring down the Kindle to my lap after arriving at “Letter To ARC Readers”. My boyfriend is snoring next to me in bed, deep in slumber, and completely oblivious to the fact that I just read my first INFINITY STAR read of 2026. Staring at his face, I frown in disapproval as Roremar wouldn’t do that to me - he would understand and sit up, muscles and tattoos flexing, while smirking and providing sweet, delicious encouragement, to have me tell him all about my OBSESSION after finishing this read like a good girl.
I turn my head back, staring at the ceiling, lifeless almost, from the emotional damage that I just put myself through while reading this and, to be honest, I could not imagine any better feeling than this right now. The pure adrenaline coursing through my body after finishing this book has now found myself moving towards the nearest computer, and having a carnal need to pour out my heart about why this book needs to not only be on everyone’s radar to purchase this month, but to have a plan scheduled on their calendar to purchase immediately when it’s available on March 26.
Starting off, let’s talk about the tropes….
⭐️ Celestial Magic
⭐️ Gods and Prophecies
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ Reluctant Allies To Lovers
⭐️ Murder Mystery
⭐️ Slow Burn
⭐️ INTENSE YEARNING
And these are only a touch of what you can find within Scars Beneath A Serpent’s Scales that bring not only one of the best world building I’ve come across in the past couple of years but also giving that missing key element that we have all been lusting for as we have been reading current titles in the Romantasy genre - true, well thought out, balance of plot and romance.
As you dive into this book, you will find yourself transported in following our FMC Emmeline who is working as a teacher at Lyra Temple Academy helping students navigate their Fate Ties. During this time, we come to find that while Emmeline works as a teacher during the day, she is also a Huntress by night, searching for clues and information related to the whereabouts of her sister that has has been missing for the past several years. While she is hunting in the night for this information, she is also trying to conduct a lead to what is happening throughout the once peaceful Isle of Lyra as women are actively being murdered and the whereabouts of the culprit is nowhere to be found. With this devastation happening, the Temple Master calls Emmeline to his office and provides a proposition in helping him with finding the culprit in exchange for her most desirable wish she has been hoping for the last six years since coming to work at the Lyra Temple Academy. As she thinks through this offering, which seems almost too good to pass up, she realizes that she is not alone in the office. Rather, our MMC Roremar the Reckless, is also in attendance sitting behind the office desk and bringing the dangerous and broody bad boy aura that we all readers have come to know and love. The best part? Both Emmeline and Roremar are offered the same proposition with the only exception being that they both have to work together to solve this mystery by the community's Festival which is only a deadline of a few weeks away. With such a tight deadline, the unknown of where to even start, and the INTENSE burning chemistry that seems to draw each other to one another, will they find themselves able to unravel the mystery and prophecy laid out before them?
If this doesn’t get you intrigued, please navigate your way back to the beginning of this review and start again….because trust me, this is going to be your newest OBSESSION!
As mentioned previously, I am such a fangirl of an author being able to transport me to a world within the pages of their story - one which brings such detailed and intricate explanations that I feel as though I can even see & touch my surroundings while the storyline is unfolding before me. I also found myself thinking about the various different Fate Ties and how I would be connected based on my birth date and what magic I would hold from the complex magic system that perfectly supports the series that Nicole has built. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in a story like this and am so appreciative of Nicole for sending me this ARC to read ahead of the pub date and bringing me into this new world.
One thing that I was surprised to find, and was not prepared for, was being so emotionally seen and having my own “come to Jesus” therapy session as the FMC navigates through life holding up shields and hiding emotional feelings to the bottom of a locked up cage inside her. As an eldest daughter that learned to never ask for help, not allow anyone to see her cry, and has been the pillar to help keep everyone moving and happy to those around her, Emmeline rips open that hole that we have all been hiding showing that it’s not only us who suffers from relationship building and correlating emotions to weakness, but our characters do as well. There is a part within the story that completely took me that I had to pause for a moment as I didn’t know I needed to hear this to help comfort that broken part of me which relates so much to Emmeline:
“I can do it,” she whispered, hurried and determined. “I can take care of it."
“I know you can take care of yourself Emmeline. I know you’re able to do it all on your own. But right now, you don’t have to. Let me help.”
Okay….I think I just fell in love with Roremar all over again typing this out.
Should I just do a re-read of this?
Like…right now?
I mean, sleep is for the weak, right?!?
Without giving too much away, the last 20% of this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will find yourself shocked, devastated, angry, happy, joyous, distraught, and determined all within a matter of minutes….and let me tell you, it’s going to be SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO worth it. TRUST. ME.
If you are someone looking for achingly slow burn tension, twists that will keep you theorizing constantly, fully complex and descriptive world building, and a storyline that will keep you intrigued from start to finish, you definitely need to tell the stars and get your hands on this book when it comes out on March 26th.
I turn my head back, staring at the ceiling, lifeless almost, from the emotional damage that I just put myself through while reading this and, to be honest, I could not imagine any better feeling than this right now. The pure adrenaline coursing through my body after finishing this book has now found myself moving towards the nearest computer, and having a carnal need to pour out my heart about why this book needs to not only be on everyone’s radar to purchase this month, but to have a plan scheduled on their calendar to purchase immediately when it’s available on March 26.
Starting off, let’s talk about the tropes….
⭐️ Celestial Magic
⭐️ Gods and Prophecies
⭐️ Found Family
⭐️ Reluctant Allies To Lovers
⭐️ Murder Mystery
⭐️ Slow Burn
⭐️ INTENSE YEARNING
And these are only a touch of what you can find within Scars Beneath A Serpent’s Scales that bring not only one of the best world building I’ve come across in the past couple of years but also giving that missing key element that we have all been lusting for as we have been reading current titles in the Romantasy genre - true, well thought out, balance of plot and romance.
As you dive into this book, you will find yourself transported in following our FMC Emmeline who is working as a teacher at Lyra Temple Academy helping students navigate their Fate Ties. During this time, we come to find that while Emmeline works as a teacher during the day, she is also a Huntress by night, searching for clues and information related to the whereabouts of her sister that has has been missing for the past several years. While she is hunting in the night for this information, she is also trying to conduct a lead to what is happening throughout the once peaceful Isle of Lyra as women are actively being murdered and the whereabouts of the culprit is nowhere to be found. With this devastation happening, the Temple Master calls Emmeline to his office and provides a proposition in helping him with finding the culprit in exchange for her most desirable wish she has been hoping for the last six years since coming to work at the Lyra Temple Academy. As she thinks through this offering, which seems almost too good to pass up, she realizes that she is not alone in the office. Rather, our MMC Roremar the Reckless, is also in attendance sitting behind the office desk and bringing the dangerous and broody bad boy aura that we all readers have come to know and love. The best part? Both Emmeline and Roremar are offered the same proposition with the only exception being that they both have to work together to solve this mystery by the community's Festival which is only a deadline of a few weeks away. With such a tight deadline, the unknown of where to even start, and the INTENSE burning chemistry that seems to draw each other to one another, will they find themselves able to unravel the mystery and prophecy laid out before them?
If this doesn’t get you intrigued, please navigate your way back to the beginning of this review and start again….because trust me, this is going to be your newest OBSESSION!
As mentioned previously, I am such a fangirl of an author being able to transport me to a world within the pages of their story - one which brings such detailed and intricate explanations that I feel as though I can even see & touch my surroundings while the storyline is unfolding before me. I also found myself thinking about the various different Fate Ties and how I would be connected based on my birth date and what magic I would hold from the complex magic system that perfectly supports the series that Nicole has built. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in a story like this and am so appreciative of Nicole for sending me this ARC to read ahead of the pub date and bringing me into this new world.
One thing that I was surprised to find, and was not prepared for, was being so emotionally seen and having my own “come to Jesus” therapy session as the FMC navigates through life holding up shields and hiding emotional feelings to the bottom of a locked up cage inside her. As an eldest daughter that learned to never ask for help, not allow anyone to see her cry, and has been the pillar to help keep everyone moving and happy to those around her, Emmeline rips open that hole that we have all been hiding showing that it’s not only us who suffers from relationship building and correlating emotions to weakness, but our characters do as well. There is a part within the story that completely took me that I had to pause for a moment as I didn’t know I needed to hear this to help comfort that broken part of me which relates so much to Emmeline:
“I can do it,” she whispered, hurried and determined. “I can take care of it."
“I know you can take care of yourself Emmeline. I know you’re able to do it all on your own. But right now, you don’t have to. Let me help.”
Okay….I think I just fell in love with Roremar all over again typing this out.
Should I just do a re-read of this?
Like…right now?
I mean, sleep is for the weak, right?!?
Without giving too much away, the last 20% of this book will keep you on the edge of your seat. You will find yourself shocked, devastated, angry, happy, joyous, distraught, and determined all within a matter of minutes….and let me tell you, it’s going to be SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO worth it. TRUST. ME.
If you are someone looking for achingly slow burn tension, twists that will keep you theorizing constantly, fully complex and descriptive world building, and a storyline that will keep you intrigued from start to finish, you definitely need to tell the stars and get your hands on this book when it comes out on March 26th.
March 16, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review — Scars Beneath a Serpent’s Scales by Nicole Platania
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC and to the Author for the ARC!
Scars Beneath a Serpent’s Scales completely pulled me under its spell. Nicole Platania blends celestial magic, mystery, and romance into a story that feels both epic and deeply emotional. From the first chapters, the atmosphere is rich with tension—prophecies, fate, and secrets hanging over every character like a storm waiting to break.
At the heart of the story are Emmeline and Roremar, two characters carrying heavy burdens in very different ways. Emmeline’s connection to the stars and the Fates makes her fascinating—she’s powerful but painfully aware of the cost of her gifts. Meanwhile Roremar is exactly the kind of morally complex character I love: a man weighed down by responsibility and reputation, but with a depth that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. Watching these two forced to work together on a dark investigation—while both trying to outrun their pasts—creates an addictive tension that kept me glued to the page.
The worldbuilding is one of the standout elements. Between the fortune-telling warrior clan, the eerie Isle of Lyra, and the creeping mystery of disappearing women, the story feels layered with danger and intrigue. There’s a strong undercurrent of destiny vs. choice running through everything, and the magic tied to fate and the stars gives the whole book an almost mythic quality.
And then there’s that twist around the 80% mark.
You know the moment. The one where you have to physically pause and reread the page because everything you thought you understood suddenly shifts. It reframes the stakes, the relationships, and the future of the story in a way that left me stunned—in the best possible way.
By the end, I was completely invested in these characters and desperate to see where the series goes next. If you love romantasy that mixes mystery, prophecy, emotional depth, and slow-burn tension, this one absolutely delivers.
Tropes
✨ Celestial / fate-based magic
🔮 Prophecy & destiny
🗡️ Murder mystery investigation
🤝 Forced proximity / forced to work together
🌌 Star-crossed tension
🖤 Morally complex MMC
🏹 Warrior clans & magical academies
🐍 Secrets, betrayals, and hidden pasts
🔥 Slow-burn romantic tension
Thank you to NetGalley for the ALC and to the Author for the ARC!
Scars Beneath a Serpent’s Scales completely pulled me under its spell. Nicole Platania blends celestial magic, mystery, and romance into a story that feels both epic and deeply emotional. From the first chapters, the atmosphere is rich with tension—prophecies, fate, and secrets hanging over every character like a storm waiting to break.
At the heart of the story are Emmeline and Roremar, two characters carrying heavy burdens in very different ways. Emmeline’s connection to the stars and the Fates makes her fascinating—she’s powerful but painfully aware of the cost of her gifts. Meanwhile Roremar is exactly the kind of morally complex character I love: a man weighed down by responsibility and reputation, but with a depth that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. Watching these two forced to work together on a dark investigation—while both trying to outrun their pasts—creates an addictive tension that kept me glued to the page.
The worldbuilding is one of the standout elements. Between the fortune-telling warrior clan, the eerie Isle of Lyra, and the creeping mystery of disappearing women, the story feels layered with danger and intrigue. There’s a strong undercurrent of destiny vs. choice running through everything, and the magic tied to fate and the stars gives the whole book an almost mythic quality.
And then there’s that twist around the 80% mark.
You know the moment. The one where you have to physically pause and reread the page because everything you thought you understood suddenly shifts. It reframes the stakes, the relationships, and the future of the story in a way that left me stunned—in the best possible way.
By the end, I was completely invested in these characters and desperate to see where the series goes next. If you love romantasy that mixes mystery, prophecy, emotional depth, and slow-burn tension, this one absolutely delivers.
Tropes
✨ Celestial / fate-based magic
🔮 Prophecy & destiny
🗡️ Murder mystery investigation
🤝 Forced proximity / forced to work together
🌌 Star-crossed tension
🖤 Morally complex MMC
🏹 Warrior clans & magical academies
🐍 Secrets, betrayals, and hidden pasts
🔥 Slow-burn romantic tension
March 15, 2026
Scars Beneath a Serpent's Scales by Nicole Platania is a romantic fantasy that follows Emmeline, a gifted fate-reader, and Roremar, a man burdened by his responsibilities with a reckless reputation. When they are reluctantly paired to investigate a series of disappearances that escalate into murders, their uneasy alliance grows into unexpected understanding… forcing them to confront dark secrets, a relentless killer, and the possibility that destiny might bind them together beyond the mystery they must solve.
I honestly could not get enough of this book. I loved everything about it! The characters (main and supporting alike) are so well developed, each with their own personality, and I fell in love with every single one. I laughed, I cried ugly tears, and I cheered for them all.
Nicole Platania’s writing style impressed me the most. The story feels epic in scope, from the immersive worldbuilding to the intricate magic system, yet it’s so easy to follow and understand. I was genuinely surprised by some of the twists, especially given how skillfully the author weaves in foreshadowing that I didn’t pick up on until the reveal.
If you enjoy romantic fantasy with immersive worldbuilding, magic, a gripping mystery, a touch of spice, and a cast you’ll fall for, I highly recommend this book. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
Thank you to Nicole Platania for the eARC.
I honestly could not get enough of this book. I loved everything about it! The characters (main and supporting alike) are so well developed, each with their own personality, and I fell in love with every single one. I laughed, I cried ugly tears, and I cheered for them all.
Nicole Platania’s writing style impressed me the most. The story feels epic in scope, from the immersive worldbuilding to the intricate magic system, yet it’s so easy to follow and understand. I was genuinely surprised by some of the twists, especially given how skillfully the author weaves in foreshadowing that I didn’t pick up on until the reveal.
If you enjoy romantic fantasy with immersive worldbuilding, magic, a gripping mystery, a touch of spice, and a cast you’ll fall for, I highly recommend this book. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t want to miss.
Thank you to Nicole Platania for the eARC.
March 12, 2026
♾️/⭐️
Pain. Devastation. Heartbreak. Scars Beneath a Serpent’s Scales literally broke me beautifully. This book is absolutely breathtaking like I cannot quite form the words to explain how much this book has taken ahold of me.
The secrecy, the mystery, the blatant corruption, the dark and the light. The gods and mythologies/legends surrounding them; their lore. THE MAGIC SYSTEM!? O.M.G. truly unique and stands on its own. The stars, (“LIKE YOU BELONG TO THE STARS” …pleaseeeeeeee 🥺😭) the constellations… I just will weep, I’m so obsessed. I… I cannot… the world building is PHENOMENAL.
The plot twists.. when I tell you I didn’t see them coming and they hit me so hard upside the head. My mouth was on the floor.. soon after I fell with it…just leave me there.
Our FMC is quite literally one of the best I’ve read in a long time. She’s so strong, and feisty and yet has such a softness about her. The pain she carries… I feel so deeply. Our MMC… sir… come to the front! The most loyal, protective, nicest and caring human (but also such a badass). The vulnerability, the yearning that grows…the trust. I truly loved seeing their relationship and romance develop. And you guys know I loveeeeee me some found family, and these characters are so sooo good!!
This should be on everyone’s tbr, their shelf, just inject it in my veins.
Pain. Devastation. Heartbreak. Scars Beneath a Serpent’s Scales literally broke me beautifully. This book is absolutely breathtaking like I cannot quite form the words to explain how much this book has taken ahold of me.
The secrecy, the mystery, the blatant corruption, the dark and the light. The gods and mythologies/legends surrounding them; their lore. THE MAGIC SYSTEM!? O.M.G. truly unique and stands on its own. The stars, (“LIKE YOU BELONG TO THE STARS” …pleaseeeeeeee 🥺😭) the constellations… I just will weep, I’m so obsessed. I… I cannot… the world building is PHENOMENAL.
The plot twists.. when I tell you I didn’t see them coming and they hit me so hard upside the head. My mouth was on the floor.. soon after I fell with it…just leave me there.
Our FMC is quite literally one of the best I’ve read in a long time. She’s so strong, and feisty and yet has such a softness about her. The pain she carries… I feel so deeply. Our MMC… sir… come to the front! The most loyal, protective, nicest and caring human (but also such a badass). The vulnerability, the yearning that grows…the trust. I truly loved seeing their relationship and romance develop. And you guys know I loveeeeee me some found family, and these characters are so sooo good!!
This should be on everyone’s tbr, their shelf, just inject it in my veins.
March 15, 2026
“𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙛𝙘𝙠, 𝙀𝙢𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙚. 𝘼𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙛𝙘𝙠 𝙢𝙚 𝙤𝙧 𝙛𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙁𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙤𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙛𝙘𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙜𝙤𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨.”
■ Romantasy
■ Allies to lovers
■ Murder mystery
■ Celestial magic
■ Slow burn
■ Banter
THIS WAS INCREDIBLE. Nicole you are an absolute wizard. I think this is my favourite read of the year so far !!!!!!
The FMC & the MMC are probably up there with some of the best characters I have ever read.
𝘏𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘺, 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥.
The murder mystery will leave you guessing and flipping back to re read previous chapters and coming up with all the theories!!!! And you will most likely be wrong!
The slow burn was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and the tension on that boat ride was 🥵🥵🥵. It was done to perfection.
𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘙𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵.
Be prepared to be in PAIN. Chapter 54 😥😥 and the ending? It broke me 💔 I cannot wait to continue this series!
“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵, 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴?” 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥. “𝘠𝘰𝘶, 𝘌𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘭���𝘯𝘦.” 𝘈 𝘷𝘰𝘸 𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴, 𝘵𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘢𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘥. “𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘞𝘢𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦.”
■ Romantasy
■ Allies to lovers
■ Murder mystery
■ Celestial magic
■ Slow burn
■ Banter
THIS WAS INCREDIBLE. Nicole you are an absolute wizard. I think this is my favourite read of the year so far !!!!!!
The FMC & the MMC are probably up there with some of the best characters I have ever read.
𝘏𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘺, 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥.
The murder mystery will leave you guessing and flipping back to re read previous chapters and coming up with all the theories!!!! And you will most likely be wrong!
The slow burn was 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and the tension on that boat ride was 🥵🥵🥵. It was done to perfection.
𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘙𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘪𝘵.
Be prepared to be in PAIN. Chapter 54 😥😥 and the ending? It broke me 💔 I cannot wait to continue this series!
“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵, 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴?” 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥. “𝘠𝘰𝘶, 𝘌𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘭���𝘯𝘦.” 𝘈 𝘷𝘰𝘸 𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴. 𝘏𝘪𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘪𝘱𝘴, 𝘵𝘶𝘨𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘢𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘥. “𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘞𝘢𝘺 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘐 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘣𝘦.”
March 16, 2026
I finished the second half of this audiobook in one sitting! It was phenomenal. The romance was REAL slow burn (I’m talking they don’t kiss until the last 100 pages) and the type of romance where they want to be with each other but for reasons they’re currently facing & their own responsibilities they know they can’t, which makes it even better!
The writing was beautiful and descriptive but not difficult to follow/read! Nicole is so incredibly descriptive with how she paints the world it makes you feel like you’re part of it!
There were multiple moments throughout the book where I was caught completely off guard by the plot twists (or lack there of) and loved every minute of it. The audiobook is fantastic and I loved both characters!
Brain power for this one is definitely 50%, you’ll want steady focus & pay attention to sub plots! If you’re a fan of high fantasy, TRUE slow burn romance, and are a sucker for a long book filled with plot & world building, you’re going to love this!!
The writing was beautiful and descriptive but not difficult to follow/read! Nicole is so incredibly descriptive with how she paints the world it makes you feel like you’re part of it!
There were multiple moments throughout the book where I was caught completely off guard by the plot twists (or lack there of) and loved every minute of it. The audiobook is fantastic and I loved both characters!
Brain power for this one is definitely 50%, you’ll want steady focus & pay attention to sub plots! If you’re a fan of high fantasy, TRUE slow burn romance, and are a sucker for a long book filled with plot & world building, you’re going to love this!!
March 13, 2026
5☆ first of all, HOLY SLOW BURN. second of all, THAT ENDING WAS SO MEAN.
i honestly loved everything about this book. the characters were extremely relatable, the magic system was incredibly unique, the plot was a murder mystery (I ATE IT UP), and the YEARNING AND TENSION WAS UNBEARABLY GOOD!!!!
and the way that this book made me emotional?? what was that about?? why was i crying at 10am and then at 11pm???
i’m going to be so annoying until book 2 comes out, sorry but I’m unwell and in mourning.
tysm to nicole & legends literary management for sending me early copies of this book! (wanna gimme book 2 rn?)
i honestly loved everything about this book. the characters were extremely relatable, the magic system was incredibly unique, the plot was a murder mystery (I ATE IT UP), and the YEARNING AND TENSION WAS UNBEARABLY GOOD!!!!
and the way that this book made me emotional?? what was that about?? why was i crying at 10am and then at 11pm???
i’m going to be so annoying until book 2 comes out, sorry but I’m unwell and in mourning.
tysm to nicole & legends literary management for sending me early copies of this book! (wanna gimme book 2 rn?)
March 17, 2026
Let me just say wow. The twist in the story was something. I’m dying to see how the story between Emmeline and Roremar plays out. This book started out a bit slow, but once it got going I didn’t want to put it down. So much was happening. In this world people read fates depending on their fate ties. Emmeline has been on a search for her sister most of her life and has many secrets and a troubled past. Both the FMC and MMC are very unique in their own way. That is all I am going to say to prevent any spoilers. This ending left me wanting so much more! Absolutely loved this book.
February 24, 2026
What. Am. I. Supposed. To. Do. With. Myself. Now.
This was utter perfection 🥹 and the kind of book that will leave the biggest book hangover.
Emmeline and Roremar are 100% one of my favourite couples 🥹 I love their slow burn chemistry and how they had to work together! Ohh honestly … I love them so much. I need more.
I will have more to write. But right now, I just feel full and empty all at one 😂😂
This was utter perfection 🥹 and the kind of book that will leave the biggest book hangover.
Emmeline and Roremar are 100% one of my favourite couples 🥹 I love their slow burn chemistry and how they had to work together! Ohh honestly … I love them so much. I need more.
I will have more to write. But right now, I just feel full and empty all at one 😂😂
March 14, 2026
Uhm, HELLO PLOT TWIST?!
What was that ending?!
I am obsessed with Emmeline. Strong, smart, and beautiful. Roremar. Protector, provider, stubborn man that he is.
The mystery, the secrets, the adventure. This book stroked my brain so well.
And Nico! My love! The sweetest man. He’s stolen my heart as well.
My heart is broken at the end of this book, and I’m hoping to piece it back together with book two.
What was that ending?!
I am obsessed with Emmeline. Strong, smart, and beautiful. Roremar. Protector, provider, stubborn man that he is.
The mystery, the secrets, the adventure. This book stroked my brain so well.
And Nico! My love! The sweetest man. He’s stolen my heart as well.
My heart is broken at the end of this book, and I’m hoping to piece it back together with book two.
Review of advance copy received from Author
OMGGG 6 FREAKING STARSSS
RTC
RTC
March 11, 2026
This is going to be one of my top books of the year.. already call it! Celestial fantasy meets murder mystery plot, such an amazing book.
Review of advance copy
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
finally can review this book now that people are getting their ARCs
i’ve had the honour to read this book last year and it was one of the best books i’ve ever read. I’m such a fan of Platania’s writing style and I was so hyped to read third person after the TCOO series in first person, and i fell in love with her style even more??!
this story has everything: an incredible plot, a great dose of making you look over your shoulder just in case there’s no mysterious m*rders happening there, the slowest burn ever, and my reaction to the end end end end end of this was 11/10 ;) or should i say out of twelve????? 💋 (i hoped, i begged, i felt like i knew, and YET it hit me all the same)
i just also want to take my rightful time to acknowledge that whatever hint hint hint connection thing you all may have figured out, i was the first to figure out. Confirmed by the author. I’ll trademark this honour 🫡
read this book cause this is going to be your new favourite series 💗 xoxo
finally can review this book now that people are getting their ARCs
i’ve had the honour to read this book last year and it was one of the best books i’ve ever read. I’m such a fan of Platania’s writing style and I was so hyped to read third person after the TCOO series in first person, and i fell in love with her style even more??!
this story has everything: an incredible plot, a great dose of making you look over your shoulder just in case there’s no mysterious m*rders happening there, the slowest burn ever, and my reaction to the end end end end end of this was 11/10 ;) or should i say out of twelve????? 💋 (i hoped, i begged, i felt like i knew, and YET it hit me all the same)
i just also want to take my rightful time to acknowledge that whatever hint hint hint connection thing you all may have figured out, i was the first to figure out. Confirmed by the author. I’ll trademark this honour 🫡
read this book cause this is going to be your new favourite series 💗 xoxo
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
Romantasy, murder mystery, secrets everywhere… and a slow burn full of delicious tension!
"For everyone afraid of letting themselves depend on someone else. For everyone afraid of being seen. And for everyone who thinks loneliness is the easiest choice."
This story blends celestial magic, romance and a proper murder mystery into one very twisty story. Women are disappearing, the world is full of strange powers and shifting alliances, and from early on you get the feeling that absolutely everyone is hiding something. The mystery thread running through the book really kept my curiosity going as little clues start appearing and the tension slowly builds.
Things I loved
✨ The murder mystery running through the story. Trying to figure out what was really happening while the tension slowly builds made it really addictive to read.
🔮 The celestial magic and layered worldbuilding. There’s a lot to absorb at first, but it creates a rich and intriguing setting.
❤️ The romantic tension and yearning. The slow burn between the leads is full of hesitation, longing and those charged moments where you’re just waiting for someone to finally say or do something.
🔥 The shifting dynamic between Emmeline and Roremar. Their trust builds slowly and the emotional payoff feels all the better for it.
🖤 Characters with depth and secrets. Everyone seems to be carrying hidden wounds or motivations, which makes the story feel layered and unpredictable.
💥 The final stretch where everything comes together. Secrets are flying, twists are landing left and right, and the tension explodes into a huge, edge-of-your-seat finale!
“What are you looking at, Reckless?”
“You, Emmeline. I am looking at you. Way more than I should be. I have been looking at you for longer than I care to admit.”
I’ll be honest, the first part was a little tougher going for me because there’s a lot of worldbuilding and information to take in, so the pacing felt slightly slow. That might also be partly my own fault because I skipped the glossary entirely and dove straight in 😅. Once things moved into part two the story really started to pick up, and when part three hit I was suddenly flying through the pages. It’s not a book that throws you straight into non-stop action, but the tension is there from the beginning, with clues and hints scattered throughout that slowly build towards a really explosive crescendo.
"He was ruin, and she was the promise of the stars. But together, they shattered."
The characters were one of my favourite parts. They feel messy, complicated and very human, with a lot of hidden trauma, secrets and past wounds that slowly start to unravel as the story progresses. And the romantic tension… so good! The dynamic between Emmeline and Roremar is full of yearning, guarded emotions and that constant push and pull that makes you lean in a little closer to the page. Neither of them lets their guard down easily, which makes every moment of vulnerability feel huge. Watching their relationship slowly shift as they work through the mystery together had me completely hooked.
"You’re the stars that ignited the darkness, Huntress. You showed me how to breathe when the air felt too thick and life too heavy.”
Overall this was such a fun and engaging romantasy with layered characters, an intriguing mystery and a romance full of tension and yearning. By the end I was completely hooked, and now I’m hugely impatient for the next book because I need answers. A very happy 4.5 stars from me!
Romantasy, murder mystery, secrets everywhere… and a slow burn full of delicious tension!
"For everyone afraid of letting themselves depend on someone else. For everyone afraid of being seen. And for everyone who thinks loneliness is the easiest choice."
This story blends celestial magic, romance and a proper murder mystery into one very twisty story. Women are disappearing, the world is full of strange powers and shifting alliances, and from early on you get the feeling that absolutely everyone is hiding something. The mystery thread running through the book really kept my curiosity going as little clues start appearing and the tension slowly builds.
Things I loved
✨ The murder mystery running through the story. Trying to figure out what was really happening while the tension slowly builds made it really addictive to read.
🔮 The celestial magic and layered worldbuilding. There’s a lot to absorb at first, but it creates a rich and intriguing setting.
❤️ The romantic tension and yearning. The slow burn between the leads is full of hesitation, longing and those charged moments where you’re just waiting for someone to finally say or do something.
🔥 The shifting dynamic between Emmeline and Roremar. Their trust builds slowly and the emotional payoff feels all the better for it.
🖤 Characters with depth and secrets. Everyone seems to be carrying hidden wounds or motivations, which makes the story feel layered and unpredictable.
💥 The final stretch where everything comes together. Secrets are flying, twists are landing left and right, and the tension explodes into a huge, edge-of-your-seat finale!
“What are you looking at, Reckless?”
“You, Emmeline. I am looking at you. Way more than I should be. I have been looking at you for longer than I care to admit.”
I’ll be honest, the first part was a little tougher going for me because there’s a lot of worldbuilding and information to take in, so the pacing felt slightly slow. That might also be partly my own fault because I skipped the glossary entirely and dove straight in 😅. Once things moved into part two the story really started to pick up, and when part three hit I was suddenly flying through the pages. It’s not a book that throws you straight into non-stop action, but the tension is there from the beginning, with clues and hints scattered throughout that slowly build towards a really explosive crescendo.
"He was ruin, and she was the promise of the stars. But together, they shattered."
The characters were one of my favourite parts. They feel messy, complicated and very human, with a lot of hidden trauma, secrets and past wounds that slowly start to unravel as the story progresses. And the romantic tension… so good! The dynamic between Emmeline and Roremar is full of yearning, guarded emotions and that constant push and pull that makes you lean in a little closer to the page. Neither of them lets their guard down easily, which makes every moment of vulnerability feel huge. Watching their relationship slowly shift as they work through the mystery together had me completely hooked.
"You’re the stars that ignited the darkness, Huntress. You showed me how to breathe when the air felt too thick and life too heavy.”
Overall this was such a fun and engaging romantasy with layered characters, an intriguing mystery and a romance full of tension and yearning. By the end I was completely hooked, and now I’m hugely impatient for the next book because I need answers. A very happy 4.5 stars from me!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Based on the premise I really wanted to love this book but unfortunately it didn’t deliver in a way that enticed and intrigued me. The murder mystery element started off incredibly strong and the magical system of fortune telling felt original and well thought out. The protagonist Emmeline is a teacher at a magical academy, which offered a great way to give exposition and explain the complex relationship between fortune telling magic and the Fates without it feeling tedious or shoved in awkwardly to add context for the reader. The Fates and how they relayed their fortunes through bonds was fascinating to learn about, as was their history with each other and the lore surrounding them.
Emmeline as a character was also a highlight. She is 29 years old and feels like a real adult. Roremar, her love interest, is 32 years old, and having two main characters with maturity was a breath of fresh air in a genre that often makes its main characters too young to relate to. Both of them have backstories and trauma that is unearthed as the book progresses, lending texture and believability to their motivations and actions. Their romance was very tender and their connection developed naturally and authentically as they began to let their walls down while working together to solve the string of murders and discover the root cause behind them. When everything surrounding the murders came to light, the devastation that followed hit that much harder due to the strength of their bond. Unfortunately, though shocking, the final revelations took the story in a trajectory that I wasn’t thrilled with. Though there were hints throughout the book, the pacing sped up in a way that felt chaotic and didn’t allow breathing room for the myriad of revelations in the concluding chapters.
I also struggled with the writing style and the descriptions used by the author. So many sentences were hyperbolic or melodramatic, and some parts were slightly cheesy and overdone in terms of the characters’ inner monologues and thoughts about each other. I think the book would have worked better if the author allowed the characters’ actions and dialogue to inform the reader of their feelings instead of constantly being told how impactful an event or conversation was. This also made the book longer than necessary, and the middle section suffered as a result.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration added to the enjoyability of the book. The speed of narration and the balanced performances are exactly what I look for in voice actors, and if I see either credited on a book in the future it will definitely incentivize me to purchase it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC
Emmeline as a character was also a highlight. She is 29 years old and feels like a real adult. Roremar, her love interest, is 32 years old, and having two main characters with maturity was a breath of fresh air in a genre that often makes its main characters too young to relate to. Both of them have backstories and trauma that is unearthed as the book progresses, lending texture and believability to their motivations and actions. Their romance was very tender and their connection developed naturally and authentically as they began to let their walls down while working together to solve the string of murders and discover the root cause behind them. When everything surrounding the murders came to light, the devastation that followed hit that much harder due to the strength of their bond. Unfortunately, though shocking, the final revelations took the story in a trajectory that I wasn’t thrilled with. Though there were hints throughout the book, the pacing sped up in a way that felt chaotic and didn’t allow breathing room for the myriad of revelations in the concluding chapters.
I also struggled with the writing style and the descriptions used by the author. So many sentences were hyperbolic or melodramatic, and some parts were slightly cheesy and overdone in terms of the characters’ inner monologues and thoughts about each other. I think the book would have worked better if the author allowed the characters’ actions and dialogue to inform the reader of their feelings instead of constantly being told how impactful an event or conversation was. This also made the book longer than necessary, and the middle section suffered as a result.
I listened to the audiobook and the narration added to the enjoyability of the book. The speed of narration and the balanced performances are exactly what I look for in voice actors, and if I see either credited on a book in the future it will definitely incentivize me to purchase it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the ALC
Review of advance copy received from Author
Breathtaking masterpiece
**ARC READ**
5⭐️
1/5🌶️
Third person/dual POV
Book 1 in a multi book series
Format: e-arc
Spoiler free
My sincerest gratitude to the author Nicole & to her team at Legends for gifting me this advanced read of her newest series. I am in awe of this story.
I started the author’s first series some time ago & knew that Nicole can write but since those books, she’s truly come into her own as a writer & really matured in her storytelling, doing so masterfully & continuously stepping up her game. This is not some vibes read; it needs the reader to strap in & pay attention because even though celestial romantasy has been done before, it’s not been done like this. The world building here is original, vast, rich, dense & so fascinating & engrossing. Sometimes, it was too much even for me to understand so I did feel confused at times. The premise here with the mystery solving adds a fun layer. This book isn’t some trope fest, it’s actually unique & offers something fresh.
The FMC is 29 & the MMC is 32. Wow adults & not just for the sake of aging up the main characters but they actually act their age! These leads have substance, emotional intelligence & depth to them. They both long for more than just going through the motions daily.
To me, the heart of the story lies with the romance. These 2 don’t start off as insta anything but as reluctant allies working together who both keep certain truths close to the chest. You get to experience this relationship simmer slowly in the background with a tender slow burn (never taking away from the bigger plot.) But most importantly IMO, you get to experience these 2 people being real, honest & raw as individuals; ultimately culminate in the most heartbreaking end. I love that we actually get deep, smart dialogue & not just witty banter. I also enjoyed that this isn’t a smut fest either with only a brief moment of spice that only adds another layer to their romance.
We also get really engaging side characters who only add to the story. & the plot twists were so unexpected.
I will add, this is a great example of a book where the negatives have no effect on the high rating. This book is chunky so the first half really struggles with its pacing. But IMO, I feel like this just adds to the murder mystery plot & makes it feel like a detective movie with that slow pace & problem solving & gives the reading experience a real sleuthing feel. Also, I noticed that some aspects that were shown could have just been told while other aspects that were told should have been shown.
**Releases 03/26/2026**
**ARC READ**
5⭐️
1/5🌶️
Third person/dual POV
Book 1 in a multi book series
Format: e-arc
Spoiler free
My sincerest gratitude to the author Nicole & to her team at Legends for gifting me this advanced read of her newest series. I am in awe of this story.
I started the author’s first series some time ago & knew that Nicole can write but since those books, she’s truly come into her own as a writer & really matured in her storytelling, doing so masterfully & continuously stepping up her game. This is not some vibes read; it needs the reader to strap in & pay attention because even though celestial romantasy has been done before, it’s not been done like this. The world building here is original, vast, rich, dense & so fascinating & engrossing. Sometimes, it was too much even for me to understand so I did feel confused at times. The premise here with the mystery solving adds a fun layer. This book isn’t some trope fest, it’s actually unique & offers something fresh.
The FMC is 29 & the MMC is 32. Wow adults & not just for the sake of aging up the main characters but they actually act their age! These leads have substance, emotional intelligence & depth to them. They both long for more than just going through the motions daily.
To me, the heart of the story lies with the romance. These 2 don’t start off as insta anything but as reluctant allies working together who both keep certain truths close to the chest. You get to experience this relationship simmer slowly in the background with a tender slow burn (never taking away from the bigger plot.) But most importantly IMO, you get to experience these 2 people being real, honest & raw as individuals; ultimately culminate in the most heartbreaking end. I love that we actually get deep, smart dialogue & not just witty banter. I also enjoyed that this isn’t a smut fest either with only a brief moment of spice that only adds another layer to their romance.
We also get really engaging side characters who only add to the story. & the plot twists were so unexpected.
I will add, this is a great example of a book where the negatives have no effect on the high rating. This book is chunky so the first half really struggles with its pacing. But IMO, I feel like this just adds to the murder mystery plot & makes it feel like a detective movie with that slow pace & problem solving & gives the reading experience a real sleuthing feel. Also, I noticed that some aspects that were shown could have just been told while other aspects that were told should have been shown.
**Releases 03/26/2026**
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow wow wow what an amazing start to a new series! This is an amazing romantasy book that gave me everything I wanted. The story follows Emmeline and Roremar as they are forced to work together to solve a murder mystery on their home island Lyra. Women are going missing and when they begin showing up dead Emmeline and Roremar must work fast to figure out who's behind this. But it won't be easy for them when they both have sky high walls up leading to many secrets between them, they each have many responsibilities, and it quickly comes out that the Fates may be involved with the murders. With their insane chemistry and connection Emmeline and Roremar are constantly struggling to their walls up while working to solve these murders and make sure they get what they need for their own goals & ambitions.
The world building and plot had me hooked from the very start! This was fast paced with high stakes and never slowed down. Nicole's writing is so immersive I instantly felt a part of the story. With this world being connected to Nicole's Curse of Ophelia series we see some familiar celestial magic around the Fates and the readings that come with being tied to the Fates. This was my favorite piece of magic in Nicole's original series so I loved seeing this come back in her new book.
Alongside the magic the mystery was absolutely incredible! It was thrilling and constantly left us trying to figure out who is responsible. When the huge twist is revealed I had no idea and was insanely shocked. I honestly think this was one of the best plot twists I've read. I'm still thinking about it and the outcomes from this.
Of course this story wouldn't be complete without the incredible slow burn romance between Emmeline and Roremar! Feeling a connection from the start they are the epitome of yearning. Like I mentioned they both have responsibilities and their own ambitions that keeps them from truly coming together. It's a constant battle for them to keep their feelings out of their partnership around the murders but we begin to see the walls come down and see their relationship grow. It felt natural, special, and easily became one of my favorite book relationships. They are both so strong and stubborn but we begin to see them challenge each other and can see the individual character development as they spend time together.
I could go on and on but truly this was an excellent book! I enjoyed everything about this and can't wait for the next book! I highly recommend this to any and all romantasy fans!
Thank you Nicole for an advanced copy!
The world building and plot had me hooked from the very start! This was fast paced with high stakes and never slowed down. Nicole's writing is so immersive I instantly felt a part of the story. With this world being connected to Nicole's Curse of Ophelia series we see some familiar celestial magic around the Fates and the readings that come with being tied to the Fates. This was my favorite piece of magic in Nicole's original series so I loved seeing this come back in her new book.
Alongside the magic the mystery was absolutely incredible! It was thrilling and constantly left us trying to figure out who is responsible. When the huge twist is revealed I had no idea and was insanely shocked. I honestly think this was one of the best plot twists I've read. I'm still thinking about it and the outcomes from this.
Of course this story wouldn't be complete without the incredible slow burn romance between Emmeline and Roremar! Feeling a connection from the start they are the epitome of yearning. Like I mentioned they both have responsibilities and their own ambitions that keeps them from truly coming together. It's a constant battle for them to keep their feelings out of their partnership around the murders but we begin to see the walls come down and see their relationship grow. It felt natural, special, and easily became one of my favorite book relationships. They are both so strong and stubborn but we begin to see them challenge each other and can see the individual character development as they spend time together.
I could go on and on but truly this was an excellent book! I enjoyed everything about this and can't wait for the next book! I highly recommend this to any and all romantasy fans!
Thank you Nicole for an advanced copy!
February 20, 2026
✨ARC Review✨
Some of the lines in this book, some of the scenes and how they went... this gets a BIG yes from me!
Did I read and finish this ARC in a day? Yes. Do I regret it? Kinda because I miss the characters!
I loved Emmeline. I related to her a lot about chosing to be alone and feeling like she can't let anyone in. I also loved her struggles and how her past is revealed to us. I loved that she was a headstrong professor and smart. And I loved that she was 29 years old! She was a lot of fun to read and be in her head and I was geniunely rooting for her the whole time.
I also loved Roremar. I loved how he carried himself. I loved his motivations and how he CARES for everyone. He is a cutie pie and I loved the layers to him. He was super easy to swoon over and it was very fun to read his banter. The quips! The lines... this MAN!
There was PINKY BRUSHES! STOP!
The nickname "Reckless" and "Huntress"... yes. That's all.
I loved the side characters and the dynamics in the group so much. Desmond needs a girl... that is all. I adore him. And I want to know more about him! They are all multi-dimensional and I enjoyed all the scenes with the side characters.
I thought the world was easy to digest. I loved the academic setting but in the professors POV. I loved the different fates and how the magic all worked. It was well thought out and explained well to where I wasn't confused.
The plot was simple, easy to follow, and that PLOT TWIST... diabolical, but I am SO excited to see what happens next, I cannot wait for the sequel!
"The grin Emmeline flashed meant trouble. And f*** if trouble wasn't his weakness." AHHH!
"I am looking at you. Way more than I should be." HEEHEEHEEEEE!
"You showed me how to breathe when the air felt too thick and life too heavy." Melting, I AM MELTING!
Overall, this was a fantastic intro into this new series, and I am so excited to see what happens next. If it is anything like "The Curse of Ophelia" series, I know we are in for a wild ride with a lot of heartbreak but a lot of yearning and I am so ready!
Thank you so much for the ARC, fingers crossed for an ARC for the sequel!
TikTok Video --> https://www.tiktok.com/@rayforrachel/...
Some of the lines in this book, some of the scenes and how they went... this gets a BIG yes from me!
Did I read and finish this ARC in a day? Yes. Do I regret it? Kinda because I miss the characters!
I loved Emmeline. I related to her a lot about chosing to be alone and feeling like she can't let anyone in. I also loved her struggles and how her past is revealed to us. I loved that she was a headstrong professor and smart. And I loved that she was 29 years old! She was a lot of fun to read and be in her head and I was geniunely rooting for her the whole time.
I also loved Roremar. I loved how he carried himself. I loved his motivations and how he CARES for everyone. He is a cutie pie and I loved the layers to him. He was super easy to swoon over and it was very fun to read his banter. The quips! The lines... this MAN!
There was PINKY BRUSHES! STOP!
The nickname "Reckless" and "Huntress"... yes. That's all.
I loved the side characters and the dynamics in the group so much. Desmond needs a girl... that is all. I adore him. And I want to know more about him! They are all multi-dimensional and I enjoyed all the scenes with the side characters.
I thought the world was easy to digest. I loved the academic setting but in the professors POV. I loved the different fates and how the magic all worked. It was well thought out and explained well to where I wasn't confused.
The plot was simple, easy to follow, and that PLOT TWIST... diabolical, but I am SO excited to see what happens next, I cannot wait for the sequel!
"The grin Emmeline flashed meant trouble. And f*** if trouble wasn't his weakness." AHHH!
"I am looking at you. Way more than I should be." HEEHEEHEEEEE!
"You showed me how to breathe when the air felt too thick and life too heavy." Melting, I AM MELTING!
Overall, this was a fantastic intro into this new series, and I am so excited to see what happens next. If it is anything like "The Curse of Ophelia" series, I know we are in for a wild ride with a lot of heartbreak but a lot of yearning and I am so ready!
Thank you so much for the ARC, fingers crossed for an ARC for the sequel!
TikTok Video --> https://www.tiktok.com/@rayforrachel/...
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book cast a full emotional destruction spell on me and I have been wandering around dazed ever since....
The plot builds so patiently and intentionally, layering mystery, magic, and tension until everything collides in the most satisfying explosion of feels!!!! And let me tell you… the emotional payoff at the end was absolutely worth the journey!!!
The magic system??? Completely unique!! Nicole unfolds it slowly throughout the story in these gorgeous little moments that feel like threads of silver woven through the worldbuilding. Instead of overwhelming you with information, the magic reveals itself piece by piece, making the entire world feel alive and immersive!
One of my favorite things about Nicole’s writing has always been the way she handles worldbuilding. The details are woven naturally into the story so you’re never drowning in exposition. Her language is poetic and vivid, and the world unfolds like a tapestry you slowly get to admire as the story moves forward.
And the mystery element??? SO GOOD. I grew up devouring Agatha Christie, so I love a good murder mystery, and this one absolutely delivered!! The disappearance of multiple women pulled me into the story immediately and kept me guessing the whole time!!
Emmeline was such a fantastic FMC. Her wit and sass made her instantly lovable, and I deeply related to her curiosity and thirst for knowledge!
And Roremar… listen... His loyalty, his attitude, the way he shows up when it matters most??? I was absolutely SWOOOOOONING!!!!!!
Now let’s talk about the romance...
Because WOW!
I am a sucker for banter, reluctant allies, and cute nicknames, and this book delivered all of it!! Emmeline and Roremar being forced to work together to solve the mystery created the most delicious slow burn. Watching their partnership slowly grow into something deeper was equal parts fun, frustrating, and completely swoon worthy!!
And the YEARNING!!!!! The longing! The tension! I was kicking my feet and giggling the entire time!!!
If you love:
• slow burn romance
• magical worlds with unique systems
• clever banter
• intriguing mysteries
• characters you can’t stop rooting for
You need to read this book immediately.
Trust me.
The plot builds so patiently and intentionally, layering mystery, magic, and tension until everything collides in the most satisfying explosion of feels!!!! And let me tell you… the emotional payoff at the end was absolutely worth the journey!!!
The magic system??? Completely unique!! Nicole unfolds it slowly throughout the story in these gorgeous little moments that feel like threads of silver woven through the worldbuilding. Instead of overwhelming you with information, the magic reveals itself piece by piece, making the entire world feel alive and immersive!
One of my favorite things about Nicole’s writing has always been the way she handles worldbuilding. The details are woven naturally into the story so you’re never drowning in exposition. Her language is poetic and vivid, and the world unfolds like a tapestry you slowly get to admire as the story moves forward.
And the mystery element??? SO GOOD. I grew up devouring Agatha Christie, so I love a good murder mystery, and this one absolutely delivered!! The disappearance of multiple women pulled me into the story immediately and kept me guessing the whole time!!
Emmeline was such a fantastic FMC. Her wit and sass made her instantly lovable, and I deeply related to her curiosity and thirst for knowledge!
And Roremar… listen... His loyalty, his attitude, the way he shows up when it matters most??? I was absolutely SWOOOOOONING!!!!!!
Now let’s talk about the romance...
Because WOW!
I am a sucker for banter, reluctant allies, and cute nicknames, and this book delivered all of it!! Emmeline and Roremar being forced to work together to solve the mystery created the most delicious slow burn. Watching their partnership slowly grow into something deeper was equal parts fun, frustrating, and completely swoon worthy!!
And the YEARNING!!!!! The longing! The tension! I was kicking my feet and giggling the entire time!!!
If you love:
• slow burn romance
• magical worlds with unique systems
• clever banter
• intriguing mysteries
• characters you can’t stop rooting for
You need to read this book immediately.
Trust me.
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