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The Obsidian Academy Duet #2
Tides of Secrets
Not yet published
Expected 31 Mar 26
“Logic bows at the throne of obsession.”
When Wren discovers a body and Castien in the tunnels on the same night, she’s certain she’ll never be able to trust him again. But that doesn’t mean she no longer needs him.
In order to discover the killer taking down their fellow students, Wren is forced to rely on Castien’s strategic mind and his knowledge of the Obsidian Order.
Wren wants nothing more than a cordial alliance, but Castien is intent on winning much more than her loyalty. He longs for her heart.
As they learn to trust each other again, the secret of Wren’s stolen journal looms over their fragile happiness like a storm cloud on the horizon.
Will they be able to withstand the tempestuous winds, or will they be ripped apart in the end?
Find out in Tides of Secrets, the epic conclusion of the Obsidian Academy Duet, a love story tinged with obsession and drenched in yearning.
When Wren discovers a body and Castien in the tunnels on the same night, she’s certain she’ll never be able to trust him again. But that doesn’t mean she no longer needs him.
In order to discover the killer taking down their fellow students, Wren is forced to rely on Castien’s strategic mind and his knowledge of the Obsidian Order.
Wren wants nothing more than a cordial alliance, but Castien is intent on winning much more than her loyalty. He longs for her heart.
As they learn to trust each other again, the secret of Wren’s stolen journal looms over their fragile happiness like a storm cloud on the horizon.
Will they be able to withstand the tempestuous winds, or will they be ripped apart in the end?
Find out in Tides of Secrets, the epic conclusion of the Obsidian Academy Duet, a love story tinged with obsession and drenched in yearning.
427 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication March 31, 2026
12 people are currently reading
389 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 16, 2026
⭐️6
Annah did absolutely incredible in this book!
Her writing and everything about it is absolutely amazing. I cannot stop thinking about Castien, Wren, and Finnick.
I loved everything about it! The characters, the plot, the emotional rollercoaster…I loved it all.
Castien and Wren went through horrible things yet they’re still standing. Because of each other. Because she was his light in the darkness and he was hers. They loved each other so fervently and fiercely, it just melted my heart.
Castien the man that he is!👏🏼👏🏼 He was so loving and patient and caring and obsessed with Wren. His heart belonged to her from the beginning. Even when she didn’t know it.
Wren. She’s amazing. I respect the woman that she has become. I admire the quiet strength that she has and I absolutely love that Castien did his best to show her that she IS strong. That she is NOT broken. That she is enough.
They’re perfect for each other.
Fin, aka my favorite side character EVER, I love him so much. I loved how loyal and caring he is with Castien. Their banter and friendship was one of the my favorite parts in the entire book. And I am so so sorry for what happened to him. But I love that he had Castien to help him survive.♥️
And the ending😭 Don’t get me wrong it was a happily ever after but what was that Annah?😭 I was destroyed. What happened broke my heart and that Castien is blaming himself for it? Broke my heart again. (PS I loved it)
All of them deserved better.♥️ But I was so happy that Wren was there for them.
I absolutely adore this book🥹
favorite moments:
- Castien giving his dagger to Wren
- when she took care of him when he was ill
- when Castien called her ‘Storyteller’ or ‘dearest’
- when he helped her with a panic attack and made sure she was okay to continue their investigation
- Castien comforting Wren after the nightmare
- Castiens letter in her brothers journal
- their first kiss!!
- him rescuing her in the tunnels
- Wren having Castien say “This was not my fault.” 😭
- the epilogue
- “We have forever.” 🥹
tropes:
🤎dark academia
🕯️soft FMC x protective MMC
🤎secrets & mystery
🕯️nicknames
🤎allll the yearning
🕯️he falls first
🤎slow burn
🕯️”I’ve got you.”
🤎nightmare trope
🕯️sword fighting lessons
🤎dual pov
TW: mention of SA, slight gore, death, m^rder, ptsd
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
Annah did absolutely incredible in this book!
Her writing and everything about it is absolutely amazing. I cannot stop thinking about Castien, Wren, and Finnick.
I loved everything about it! The characters, the plot, the emotional rollercoaster…I loved it all.
Castien and Wren went through horrible things yet they’re still standing. Because of each other. Because she was his light in the darkness and he was hers. They loved each other so fervently and fiercely, it just melted my heart.
Castien the man that he is!👏🏼👏🏼 He was so loving and patient and caring and obsessed with Wren. His heart belonged to her from the beginning. Even when she didn’t know it.
Wren. She’s amazing. I respect the woman that she has become. I admire the quiet strength that she has and I absolutely love that Castien did his best to show her that she IS strong. That she is NOT broken. That she is enough.
They’re perfect for each other.
Fin, aka my favorite side character EVER, I love him so much. I loved how loyal and caring he is with Castien. Their banter and friendship was one of the my favorite parts in the entire book. And I am so so sorry for what happened to him. But I love that he had Castien to help him survive.♥️
And the ending😭 Don’t get me wrong it was a happily ever after but what was that Annah?😭 I was destroyed. What happened broke my heart and that Castien is blaming himself for it? Broke my heart again. (PS I loved it)
All of them deserved better.♥️ But I was so happy that Wren was there for them.
I absolutely adore this book🥹
favorite moments:
- Castien giving his dagger to Wren
- when she took care of him when he was ill
- when Castien called her ‘Storyteller’ or ‘dearest’
- when he helped her with a panic attack and made sure she was okay to continue their investigation
- Castien comforting Wren after the nightmare
- Castiens letter in her brothers journal
- their first kiss!!
- him rescuing her in the tunnels
- Wren having Castien say “This was not my fault.” 😭
- the epilogue
- “We have forever.” 🥹
tropes:
🤎dark academia
🕯️soft FMC x protective MMC
🤎secrets & mystery
🕯️nicknames
🤎allll the yearning
🕯️he falls first
🤎slow burn
🕯️”I’ve got you.”
🤎nightmare trope
🕯️sword fighting lessons
🤎dual pov
TW: mention of SA, slight gore, death, m^rder, ptsd
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
Review of advance copy received from Author
thank you SO much A R Conwell and her team for the privilege having Tides of Secrets as an ARC. I absolutely loved being in the halls of the Obsidian Academy again. Book releases March 31st.
Below is my honest review:
5 stars!
This was STUNNING.
This is the second book in the Obsidian Academy duet and we pick up right where we left off. Wren is navigating a web of murders and stolen secrets while deciding who she can truly trust. As the shadows within the Academy grow more lethal with more of the Order murdered, she and Castien are forced into an uneasy alliance to unmask a killer with a unique calling card hiding in plain sight. It is a dark academia romantasy that balances a slow-burn, enemies/rivals to lovers romance with yearning, a desperate hunt for the truth, and to defeat the haunting ghosts of past traumas. The murder mystery had just enough clues to keep me guessing without it feeling predictable. The side characters were excellent I absolutely adore (names redacted bc of potential spoilers), but my absolute favorite part of this book was the thoughtful and attentive romance.
Castien and Wrens romance was EVERYTHING I wanted and more especially after the build up we saw in Ocean of Ink. They’re truly one of my new favorite book couples. They felt like a blend of Elizabeth and Darcy (Pride and Prejudice) and Ella and Kit (live action Cinderella) in the best ways. Their romance was just so real and raw and intense. They supported each other and shined light into each other’s darkness. Castien was absolutely obsessed with Wren and his love for her was so patient and so caring. The yearning? I can’t. I absolutely adored him. Wren was also so thoughtful with quiet strength that grew into confidence and an ability to help Castien process grief. Her story was handled with sensitivity and care and protection. I consumed their letters and Castien’s terms of endearment like air in my lunges. His storyteller. My dearest. My dear storyteller. Your sword and shield. My love. IM SCREAMING. Their first kiss !!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, Annah… you know what you did at 85% and it wasn’t nice and I just need you to know I’m still brokenhearted.
Do we have a certain side character and cousins book on the horizon to look forward to? PLEASEEEEE.
TW: rape/sexual assault (recounted), past traumas, grief, loss, murder, mystery, violence, descriptions of blood and wounds, battles, weapons, mental health struggles, depression, anxiety, haunting emotional trauma, emotional recovery, no language, no spice - some kissing
Enemies/Rivals to lovers. Slow burn. Found family. Forced proximity. He falls first. Third person POV. Dual POV. No spice/closed door.
Below is my honest review:
5 stars!
This was STUNNING.
This is the second book in the Obsidian Academy duet and we pick up right where we left off. Wren is navigating a web of murders and stolen secrets while deciding who she can truly trust. As the shadows within the Academy grow more lethal with more of the Order murdered, she and Castien are forced into an uneasy alliance to unmask a killer with a unique calling card hiding in plain sight. It is a dark academia romantasy that balances a slow-burn, enemies/rivals to lovers romance with yearning, a desperate hunt for the truth, and to defeat the haunting ghosts of past traumas. The murder mystery had just enough clues to keep me guessing without it feeling predictable. The side characters were excellent I absolutely adore (names redacted bc of potential spoilers), but my absolute favorite part of this book was the thoughtful and attentive romance.
Castien and Wrens romance was EVERYTHING I wanted and more especially after the build up we saw in Ocean of Ink. They’re truly one of my new favorite book couples. They felt like a blend of Elizabeth and Darcy (Pride and Prejudice) and Ella and Kit (live action Cinderella) in the best ways. Their romance was just so real and raw and intense. They supported each other and shined light into each other’s darkness. Castien was absolutely obsessed with Wren and his love for her was so patient and so caring. The yearning? I can’t. I absolutely adored him. Wren was also so thoughtful with quiet strength that grew into confidence and an ability to help Castien process grief. Her story was handled with sensitivity and care and protection. I consumed their letters and Castien’s terms of endearment like air in my lunges. His storyteller. My dearest. My dear storyteller. Your sword and shield. My love. IM SCREAMING. Their first kiss !!!!!!!!!!!!
Hey, Annah… you know what you did at 85% and it wasn’t nice and I just need you to know I’m still brokenhearted.
Do we have a certain side character and cousins book on the horizon to look forward to? PLEASEEEEE.
TW: rape/sexual assault (recounted), past traumas, grief, loss, murder, mystery, violence, descriptions of blood and wounds, battles, weapons, mental health struggles, depression, anxiety, haunting emotional trauma, emotional recovery, no language, no spice - some kissing
Enemies/Rivals to lovers. Slow burn. Found family. Forced proximity. He falls first. Third person POV. Dual POV. No spice/closed door.
Read
March 8, 2026I had the privilege of proofreading this, and IT IS SO INCREDIBLE! Literally had me sitting in my feels after I finished it.
You will find murder, death, and vague recollections of s*xual abuse in this book, but there is SO MUCH BEAUTIFUL HEALING as well.
You will find murder, death, and vague recollections of s*xual abuse in this book, but there is SO MUCH BEAUTIFUL HEALING as well.
March 11, 2026
♡Tides of Secrets♡
by A. R. Conwell
Releases March 31st
•6⭐️
•Spice: none (kissing only/closed door)
•Language: none
•TW/CW: S*xual assault. Murder. Violence. Grief. Blood.
My thoughts:
OH MY GOSH! How do I even put into words how amazingly beautiful this book is? Everything about this book was so beautiful and emotional. The writing was amazing and drew me in immediately. It was so utterly addicting to read.
Castien and Wren’s relationship is so sweet and I love them so much. They have a special place in my heart, as one of my favorite book couples.
The emotion in this book was so intense and I loved it so much. There were so many twists and turns to this story and I never knew what was coming.
This story has been on my mind since finishing book 1 and I’m so glad to have an ending to the story.
I highly recommend and can see myself rereading many times in the future.
I’m also so excited for a certain someone’s book next…
🖤yearning
🕯️dark academia
🖤he falls first
🕯️soft FMC
🖤protective MMC
🕯️secrets + mysteries
🖤book 2 in duology
🕯️dagger fighting lessons
🖤she cares for him
🕯️they exchange letters
🖤no spice romantasy
by A. R. Conwell
Releases March 31st
•6⭐️
•Spice: none (kissing only/closed door)
•Language: none
•TW/CW: S*xual assault. Murder. Violence. Grief. Blood.
My thoughts:
OH MY GOSH! How do I even put into words how amazingly beautiful this book is? Everything about this book was so beautiful and emotional. The writing was amazing and drew me in immediately. It was so utterly addicting to read.
Castien and Wren’s relationship is so sweet and I love them so much. They have a special place in my heart, as one of my favorite book couples.
The emotion in this book was so intense and I loved it so much. There were so many twists and turns to this story and I never knew what was coming.
This story has been on my mind since finishing book 1 and I’m so glad to have an ending to the story.
I highly recommend and can see myself rereading many times in the future.
I’m also so excited for a certain someone’s book next…
🖤yearning
🕯️dark academia
🖤he falls first
🕯️soft FMC
🖤protective MMC
🕯️secrets + mysteries
🖤book 2 in duology
🕯️dagger fighting lessons
🖤she cares for him
🕯️they exchange letters
🖤no spice romantasy
Currently reading
February 27, 2026・┆✦ʚ♡ɞ✦ ┆・
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭:
totally NOT me screaming that I just got accepted for the ARC of this!!!!✨😍🩵💖
・┆✦ʚ♡ɞ✦ ┆・
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭:
totally NOT me screaming that I just got accepted for the ARC of this!!!!✨😍🩵💖
・┆✦ʚ♡ɞ✦ ┆・
March 18, 2026
“I want all of you, Wren. In every way you will allow me. I am quite desperate for you. I’ve been told I’m pathetic.” He gave a tortured smile. “Your past did not ruin you. I see you as you are now, and who you are is someone I long for with all that I am.”
This dark romantasy is packed with mystery, suspense, YEARNING, danger, friendship, banter, and romance. I have no words for this book, it is absolutely FANTASTIC!! The writing and world-building, I truly felt like I was there. I love when a mystery causes my suspicions to continually change. One suggestion, be sure to have tissues at hand when you read. There will be tears… tears of pain and brokenness, tears of joy, and tears of sadness. But never fear, your heart will be put back together in the end!
Wren is brave and strong. I loved watching her grow in confidence and strength. I adored the healing she found, and the way Castien helped her in that healing absolutely touched my heart. I loved the friendships she built. I loved the way she and Castien worked together and learned to trust and depend on one another. The letters Wren and Castien wrote, oh my heart! Castien is intelligent and absolutely besotted with Wren. He is now the king of yearning. Y’all, it’s so amazing! I enjoyed seeing how he balanced his emotions with his Gift and his leadership in discovering the k!ller. I loved that he let down his guard with Wren and their honest conversations. His brokenness was palpable but his love for Wren even more so. I adored getting a front row seat to their romance and the beautiful blossoming love it grew to be. That Epilogue melted me into a puddle!
Castien’s friendship with Finn is so strong and their connection incredible. I am sad to leave the Academy but I am looking forward to Finn’s story!
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This dark romantasy is packed with mystery, suspense, YEARNING, danger, friendship, banter, and romance. I have no words for this book, it is absolutely FANTASTIC!! The writing and world-building, I truly felt like I was there. I love when a mystery causes my suspicions to continually change. One suggestion, be sure to have tissues at hand when you read. There will be tears… tears of pain and brokenness, tears of joy, and tears of sadness. But never fear, your heart will be put back together in the end!
Wren is brave and strong. I loved watching her grow in confidence and strength. I adored the healing she found, and the way Castien helped her in that healing absolutely touched my heart. I loved the friendships she built. I loved the way she and Castien worked together and learned to trust and depend on one another. The letters Wren and Castien wrote, oh my heart! Castien is intelligent and absolutely besotted with Wren. He is now the king of yearning. Y’all, it’s so amazing! I enjoyed seeing how he balanced his emotions with his Gift and his leadership in discovering the k!ller. I loved that he let down his guard with Wren and their honest conversations. His brokenness was palpable but his love for Wren even more so. I adored getting a front row seat to their romance and the beautiful blossoming love it grew to be. That Epilogue melted me into a puddle!
Castien’s friendship with Finn is so strong and their connection incredible. I am sad to leave the Academy but I am looking forward to Finn’s story!
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2026
I absolutely loved the first book, but the second one is my favorite (which is saying a lot)
Finn is the best. Finn made me laugh way too many times. He’s so funny, and I love him. Also, his caring side makes my heart melt.
I also loved that Castien started drawing again because of Wren. One of my favorite moments is when he writes her a letter telling an embarrassing story about himself just to make her feel better. 🥺I’m not kidding my heart was so happy reading that.
I love this story so much. The world it’s set in is enchanting and beautiful. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say it definitely keeps you guessing the whole time. At its heart, though, the story is about healing, forgiveness, love, and growth. The found family throughout the book was really sweet, and I loved watching the love between them grow.
The scene where she reads to him in the study oh my gosh! And when Castien shows her his room 🥹🥺💕I also love how supportive he is of her, and how patient, kind, caring, and protective or the people he loves. I loved how Wren supported him too, and how they both grew together.💕
This story definitely has a special place in my heart.
Highlights
🌊 the yearning
🌊 the letters
🌊 the humor
🌊 the heart melting moments
🌊 protective MMC
🌊 strong relationships/friendships
🌊 mystery and so much more!
Spice 0
Language 0
Finn is the best. Finn made me laugh way too many times. He’s so funny, and I love him. Also, his caring side makes my heart melt.
I also loved that Castien started drawing again because of Wren. One of my favorite moments is when he writes her a letter telling an embarrassing story about himself just to make her feel better. 🥺I’m not kidding my heart was so happy reading that.
I love this story so much. The world it’s set in is enchanting and beautiful. I don’t want to spoil anything, but I will say it definitely keeps you guessing the whole time. At its heart, though, the story is about healing, forgiveness, love, and growth. The found family throughout the book was really sweet, and I loved watching the love between them grow.
The scene where she reads to him in the study oh my gosh! And when Castien shows her his room 🥹🥺💕I also love how supportive he is of her, and how patient, kind, caring, and protective or the people he loves. I loved how Wren supported him too, and how they both grew together.💕
This story definitely has a special place in my heart.
Highlights
🌊 the yearning
🌊 the letters
🌊 the humor
🌊 the heart melting moments
🌊 protective MMC
🌊 strong relationships/friendships
🌊 mystery and so much more!
Spice 0
Language 0
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Once I thought hope an anchor, now for me it is a compass. I set my eye on it, unwavering, certain that it will guide me home."
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, so it was such a blessing to read it early as part of the ARC team. And after reading it, I can honestly say I am far from disappointed. This book was an astonishing conclusion to The Obsidian Academy Duet. It was darling, devastating, and absolutely magnificent. This story will no doubt stay with me for a long time, as it is now one of my favorites. The characters are truly precious, and the love shown in not only the romance, but the friendships and familial relationships, was truly special. Tides of Secrets touched my heart. I did cry at a particular part, which left me staring at the page in shock for at least a minute. I’m not sure I’ll ever recover. However, I am beyond excited to see a few of these characters (*ahem* ✨Finn✨ *ahem*) soon, and further explore this intriguing world. On a more practical note, the writing in this book was especially elegant, as was the intricate mystery that added such depth to the plot. In short, I can say with certainty that this Duet will forever remain quite Dear to me.
~Content~
Romance: Clean/Swoony
Violence: Medium
Language: None
Notes: Content Warning in Book
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, so it was such a blessing to read it early as part of the ARC team. And after reading it, I can honestly say I am far from disappointed. This book was an astonishing conclusion to The Obsidian Academy Duet. It was darling, devastating, and absolutely magnificent. This story will no doubt stay with me for a long time, as it is now one of my favorites. The characters are truly precious, and the love shown in not only the romance, but the friendships and familial relationships, was truly special. Tides of Secrets touched my heart. I did cry at a particular part, which left me staring at the page in shock for at least a minute. I’m not sure I’ll ever recover. However, I am beyond excited to see a few of these characters (*ahem* ✨Finn✨ *ahem*) soon, and further explore this intriguing world. On a more practical note, the writing in this book was especially elegant, as was the intricate mystery that added such depth to the plot. In short, I can say with certainty that this Duet will forever remain quite Dear to me.
~Content~
Romance: Clean/Swoony
Violence: Medium
Language: None
Notes: Content Warning in Book
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew from chapter 1 it was a 6 star read.
10 stars if I could. I thoroughly enjoyed every second, I tried taking my time and putting off reading it as long as possible because I didn't want it to end! Such a beautiful story and chatacters. It was absolutely perfect, so full of meaning and deeper topics, I love the mix of twists and mystery but the romance is still so strong.
This definitely is one if my top books ever. The writing is a masterpiece and the world building isnt too complicated but still interesting.
The characters were so relatable and so many times my heart broke for them. I honestly feel like they are my friends after this duology and im so happy they got their hea.
If you couldnt tell I highly recommend this book and duology.
Thankyou sooo much for my early copy!
Some of my fave quotes: 🖤
“My dearest Wren.”
"Tides, he loved her. He was irrevocably in love with Wren, in the most hopeless manner"
"I want you to ingrain in your mind and heart that I will not let any harm befall you. You are safe with me. Always.
Your sword and shield, Castien"
"Wren was beginning to trust him, and Castien was undeserving of such a treasure"
10 stars if I could. I thoroughly enjoyed every second, I tried taking my time and putting off reading it as long as possible because I didn't want it to end! Such a beautiful story and chatacters. It was absolutely perfect, so full of meaning and deeper topics, I love the mix of twists and mystery but the romance is still so strong.
This definitely is one if my top books ever. The writing is a masterpiece and the world building isnt too complicated but still interesting.
The characters were so relatable and so many times my heart broke for them. I honestly feel like they are my friends after this duology and im so happy they got their hea.
If you couldnt tell I highly recommend this book and duology.
Thankyou sooo much for my early copy!
Some of my fave quotes: 🖤
“My dearest Wren.”
"Tides, he loved her. He was irrevocably in love with Wren, in the most hopeless manner"
"I want you to ingrain in your mind and heart that I will not let any harm befall you. You are safe with me. Always.
Your sword and shield, Castien"
"Wren was beginning to trust him, and Castien was undeserving of such a treasure"
Review of advance copy received from Author
“You deserve every good thing this world has to offer and then some”
Ohhh Castien. Where can I start this review except with this lover boy of a man. He is patient, kind, and pushes Wren to be better without making her feel out of control.
I loved this book with all my heart. The action and adventure had my attention, but the love had my heart.
After reading the first book, I wasn’t sure about how the romance would pan out but it blossomed in the most beautiful ways.
“They wish to see us crumble… Do not give them the satisfaction”
I loved watching wren grow and tackle her fears and intrusive thoughts. She has been given so much to handle and watching her lean on Cas and her friends to overcome challenges was so heartwarming.
So much to say, but I’ll leave it at this,
This book was beautiful, it made me laugh, cry, and feel all the feels. 5 stars is simply not enough.
Also if you want to listen to a song that feels like this book, I recommend San Fernando by Vincent Lima
Major thank you to the author for the ARC!
Ohhh Castien. Where can I start this review except with this lover boy of a man. He is patient, kind, and pushes Wren to be better without making her feel out of control.
I loved this book with all my heart. The action and adventure had my attention, but the love had my heart.
After reading the first book, I wasn’t sure about how the romance would pan out but it blossomed in the most beautiful ways.
“They wish to see us crumble… Do not give them the satisfaction”
I loved watching wren grow and tackle her fears and intrusive thoughts. She has been given so much to handle and watching her lean on Cas and her friends to overcome challenges was so heartwarming.
So much to say, but I’ll leave it at this,
This book was beautiful, it made me laugh, cry, and feel all the feels. 5 stars is simply not enough.
Also if you want to listen to a song that feels like this book, I recommend San Fernando by Vincent Lima
Major thank you to the author for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all, I’d like to thank Annah and her team for the amazing opportunity to be on the ARC team for her brand new fantasy series. It’s been quite the honor 🏅
I’ve given this book 3.5 stars, rounded up. For reference, I gave Ocean of Ink 3 stars.
🚨MINOR spoilers in this review.
When it comes to fantasy books, I am really looking for thrills, twists, turns and shock factor. In Ocean of Ink, the plot is set up with murder, a secret society and enemies to lovers type romance. I was fully expecting some high stakes action and thrill. We didn’t get much of that in Ocean of Ink, but in Tides of Secrets, more puzzle pieces are being put together and the investigative plot of the series finally begins. That had me hooked for the first half of the book until we found out the supposed murderer at 50%. I won’t spoil anything, but I will say that the ending for this particular plot was a little lackluster.
As far as Wren and Castien’s relationship goes, this book had MUCH more to offer with that. There are a ton of letters written, mutual feelings and deep connections. I don’t care much for 3rd act break ups, so that put a damper on this for me a little bit. But the author is a romance writer first, and did a great job with forming a strong bond between these 2. Their relationship definitely holds this book together.
All in all, this is a good first series for an author trying a new genre. If you’re not looking for something super high fantasy, this is a good series to start with.
🌶️: low
🤬: none
‼️: murder, SA past, some gore, grief over death of a loved one
I’ve given this book 3.5 stars, rounded up. For reference, I gave Ocean of Ink 3 stars.
🚨MINOR spoilers in this review.
When it comes to fantasy books, I am really looking for thrills, twists, turns and shock factor. In Ocean of Ink, the plot is set up with murder, a secret society and enemies to lovers type romance. I was fully expecting some high stakes action and thrill. We didn’t get much of that in Ocean of Ink, but in Tides of Secrets, more puzzle pieces are being put together and the investigative plot of the series finally begins. That had me hooked for the first half of the book until we found out the supposed murderer at 50%. I won’t spoil anything, but I will say that the ending for this particular plot was a little lackluster.
As far as Wren and Castien’s relationship goes, this book had MUCH more to offer with that. There are a ton of letters written, mutual feelings and deep connections. I don’t care much for 3rd act break ups, so that put a damper on this for me a little bit. But the author is a romance writer first, and did a great job with forming a strong bond between these 2. Their relationship definitely holds this book together.
All in all, this is a good first series for an author trying a new genre. If you’re not looking for something super high fantasy, this is a good series to start with.
🌶️: low
🤬: none
‼️: murder, SA past, some gore, grief over death of a loved one
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2026
I LOVED this book!! I read the first one a couple months ago, and it ended on a cliff hanger and I could NOT get it out of my head- I was so excited to read the sequel and find out what happened!! I applied to be an advanced reader and was SO excited that I was picked and got to read it early!!
I flew through this book- it was such a page turner! Castien and Wren’s romance was so sweet and swoony. It was amazing how much Conwell was able to convey of their growing relationship just through their letters. I love the romantasy genre and this is one of my favorites yet. I appreciated that there was no explicit content and the characters were truly falling in love rather than lust. I loved how it ended but was so sad that it did- I wanted to keep reading!! I’m so excited that she’s writing more in this world - Finn will have his own love story soon!! Can’t wait to read it. Truly loved this series and fully recommend it!!!
I flew through this book- it was such a page turner! Castien and Wren’s romance was so sweet and swoony. It was amazing how much Conwell was able to convey of their growing relationship just through their letters. I love the romantasy genre and this is one of my favorites yet. I appreciated that there was no explicit content and the characters were truly falling in love rather than lust. I loved how it ended but was so sad that it did- I wanted to keep reading!! I’m so excited that she’s writing more in this world - Finn will have his own love story soon!! Can’t wait to read it. Truly loved this series and fully recommend it!!!
March 20, 2026
This is such a great read! I am truly not okay after everything was revealed and happened. Some of the best parts of this book include the relationships between the characters and all of the plot twists!
Reading the letters between Wren and Castien are always a highlight!!! It was so much fun seeing their relationship progress after the reveal at the end of the last book and really just how much they’ve been through together. Finn remains a fan favorite and I really grew to love Perci in this book too!
The amount of plot twists in this book were insane!!! I really should’ve been expecting it from the beginning but I sadly wasn’t suspicious until far later. Seeing the mystery solved was so satisfying if also bittersweet!
All in all, an excellent conclusion to the duology! I can’t wait for the continuation in this world!
Reading the letters between Wren and Castien are always a highlight!!! It was so much fun seeing their relationship progress after the reveal at the end of the last book and really just how much they’ve been through together. Finn remains a fan favorite and I really grew to love Perci in this book too!
The amount of plot twists in this book were insane!!! I really should’ve been expecting it from the beginning but I sadly wasn’t suspicious until far later. Seeing the mystery solved was so satisfying if also bittersweet!
All in all, an excellent conclusion to the duology! I can’t wait for the continuation in this world!
March 18, 2026
I devoured this sequel in one day! Here are my random thoughts after reading:
Now this is what I call a slow burn 👏
I literally shed a tear at 75% IYKYK 🥹
All of my theories about the whodunnit were WRONG! 🔍 And I thought I was being clever! So many good twists in this part two of the duet.
I felt so immersed in this world! It gave me Harry Potter x Fourth Wing vibes without feeling too similar to other romantasys I’ve read.
Clammering to read the next book in the series!
Ugh I’m not going to get over this love story. Ever. Already a top 5 favorite book of the year.
The letters really gave what needed to be given 💌
Thank you to A.R. Conwell for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR NOW 🌊♥️📚📝🗡️🪶
Now this is what I call a slow burn 👏
I literally shed a tear at 75% IYKYK 🥹
All of my theories about the whodunnit were WRONG! 🔍 And I thought I was being clever! So many good twists in this part two of the duet.
I felt so immersed in this world! It gave me Harry Potter x Fourth Wing vibes without feeling too similar to other romantasys I’ve read.
Clammering to read the next book in the series!
Ugh I’m not going to get over this love story. Ever. Already a top 5 favorite book of the year.
The letters really gave what needed to be given 💌
Thank you to A.R. Conwell for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR NOW 🌊♥️📚📝🗡️🪶
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was utter perfection! 🥹😭😍 I’d been anticipating Tides of Secrets since the moment I finished Ocean of Ink, and now we’re finally here!! It was dark and emotional, yet filled with hopeful light that leads the characters and reader into forever. Castian and his devotion to Wren is EVERYTHING 😍😍😍 I absolutely adored Wren’s character, how she was so broken from her past but was learning to accept love and friendship. The murder mystery aspect just completed the vibes of the story, and I can confidently say I never knew what was coming next.
I HIGHLY recommend this duology!!! 😆
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
I HIGHLY recommend this duology!!! 😆
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW! What a great conclusion to the duology! I reread Oceans of Ink in January to refresh for this book. It picks up right where book 1 ended. This series has all the emotions and I love how the characters worked through them in real ways. Also, this duology made me love letters & journal entries in books. I typically don't gravitate towards books that have a lot of that but I couldn't wait to read Castien and Wren's next letters! 💕
• Yearning
• He falls first
• Healing
• Friendships
• Mystery & trying to solve murders
*Received an ARC, opinions are my own.
• Yearning
• He falls first
• Healing
• Friendships
• Mystery & trying to solve murders
*Received an ARC, opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
WOW. This may be my favorite romantasy ever! This book starts right where the last one left off. It had my jaw on the floor right from the end of chapter 1! A.R. Conwell’s writing is so immersive and engaging, I truly felt as if I were there as one of the side characters observing it all. We get many answers to lingering questions from the first book and watch Wren and Castien’s relationship develop in the sweetest way. 5 stars yet again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. I will seriously read anything this author writes! Thank you so so much for this ARC and these incredible books. 🌊
Review of advance copy received from Author
Warning this book will keep you turning the pages long after you should be asleep! I couldn't put this one down! A fabulous dual POV dark romantasy mystery you won't want to miss! Hands down my favorite book of 20026!
*note- this is book 2 of a duology and you need to read Ocean of Ink first.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
*note- this is book 2 of a duology and you need to read Ocean of Ink first.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh My Goodness. I absolutely loved book 1 but this book was even better? It is obviously some kind of writing magic because it was crazy good. You just need to read this Duology. It'll have you hand flexing like Mr Darcy.
I will say one thing more, consent is down right the sexiest thing I've ever read.
I will say one thing more, consent is down right the sexiest thing I've ever read.
March 21, 2026
This was such a fitting ending to this duology! I was absolutely enthralled with this story. I love the development of both Castien and Wren as individuals but also in their relationship with each other and those around them. I honestly wish the story kept going, but I think the ending was perfect. It left me sighing and swooning. I highly recommend this book! But read Ocean of Ink first!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am so honored to have been selected to receive an ARC copy of this book! I have not read a book that stirred so many emotions and gripped my attention so much in a very long time! A perfect conclusion to the Obsidian Academy duet. This duet is a must-read for fans of romantasy/thriller novels. I promise you won't regret it! 🖤
March 19, 2026
This book was such a captivating read, I could hardly put it down. Wren and Castien’s story was wrapped up so nicely and the mystery element was so well done. I can truly say I would recommend this story to anyone looking for an interesting world with deep characters and a plot that makes you feel all the feelings! I was laughing, kicking my feet, and on the edge of my seat simultaneously. This may very well be my favorite duology I have read.
Over all this writing is beautiful and I have to admit that I basically highlighted half of the book. A. R. Conwell has a way with words and she built such an intriguing world that I can hardly wait to dive into again. 5 Stars, honestly would give it 6 if I could! It’s safe to say this is my favorite read of the year so far!!
So honored to receive an advanced copy of this book🤍
Over all this writing is beautiful and I have to admit that I basically highlighted half of the book. A. R. Conwell has a way with words and she built such an intriguing world that I can hardly wait to dive into again. 5 Stars, honestly would give it 6 if I could! It’s safe to say this is my favorite read of the year so far!!
So honored to receive an advanced copy of this book🤍
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