I didn't like Ren as much as I liked Thea, and it made the book a little harder to get through. I know she's the younger sister, but at this point she's older than Thea was in the Legends books, so her immaturity was just annoying. Lots of stupid and selfish decisions that just made me roll my eyes. I wanted to spend more time in Torj's POV, but not just him brooding over Ren. Having some of the other established characters involved was fun, too. 

I love the larger world and seeing how things are changing after the events in the Legends of Thezmarr series. But I do think that if this were the first book I read in this world, I'd be less likely to continue the series. I like the author's writing style and the twists-and-turns that kept me on my toes, this book just felt a little more trope-heavy with an annoying FMC who thinks she knows better than literally everyone. And since it didn't feel like she grew much by the end, it'll probably continue in the next book. 

 

Helen has done it again! Another masterpiece! 

 

Set 5 years after the Legends of Thezmarr series, a new danger once again threatens the realm once more by targeting the royals. 

It felt great to return to Thezmarr, reuniting with my favorite characters—especially the hilarious duo, Kipp and Cal, who never fail to liven up the story with their antics! 

 

I’ve always admired Wren (FMC) from the previous series for her creativity and intelligence as an alchemist, a role that proved crucial in the last war. 

In this book, I get an up-close look at just how dangerous and cunning Wren can be when she wants to. 

This story is an emotional journey for Wren as she battles her grief, guilt and her need of revenge. But, she’s trying to find her true purpose again with the help of new friends and a certain lovely yet annoying Warsword!  

 

 

Now, let’s talk about the romance! 
 I adore the love-hate relationship between Wren and Torj—the bantering, flirting, and longing gazes create delicious tension. 

Their chemistry is off the charts! I love seeing them slowly open up to each other and explore their newfound feelings whenever they’re together. 

 

 

The last few chapters are action-packed, keeping my eyes glued to my Kindle. 

I didn’t want to miss a single badass moment from the alchemist and the Warswords fighting side by side. 

However, I wasn’t expecting that CLIFF-HANGER to drop out of nowhere, and now I’m in misery, waiting for book two to find out what happens next! 

 

Overall, this is a promising start for this new series! 

The sizzling slow-burn romance, rich world-building, and thrilling action are perfectly balanced, making this book so addictive that putting it down is the last thing I want to do. 

I’m really looking forward to the sequel, Thorns and Fire, coming out in July 2025! 
(I hope July comes sooner...!!) 

 

 

⚠️ 𝐓𝐖: Death, torture, murder, kidnapping, grief, brief mention of medical trauma and medical content 

A decadently lush, slow-burn romantasy with plenty of high stakes action that kept me on the edge of my seat —and feeling ALL the emotions, ‘til the very end.

This is actually the first of Helen Scheuerer’s books I’ve read. But with vividly immersive prose, an endearing found family-esque cast of characters (Kipp and Cal were particular faves) and simmering romantic tension between protagonists, Wren and Torj —she’s completely won me over.

I was especially impressed with just how much depth we explore in each of our MCs. Particularly Wren, who was such quick witted and determined character, with a heartbreaking backstory that’s really taken her to some dark places emotionally (and alchemically.) But watching her work through that trauma, and come out the other side stronger and ready to embrace her abilites was amazing. 

Likewise, I really adored Torj, our brooding Warsword who uses his rough physical exterior and battle hardened reputation to hide his vulnerabilities from the world. But inside he’s a gooey (and unrelentingly loyal) cinnamon roll who’s willing to risk everything (and anything) for the people he cares for most. Which I found super fun to explore, even if it resulted in some heartbreakingly emotional scenes. 

Not to mention their swoon-worthy chemistry! I waited with bated breath through every one of their interactions just so I could bask in that deliciously romantic intensity. We do get some poignant moments too, a few of which very nearly broke me— so do be sure to stock up on tissues! 

It is technically a sexier, more adult spin off to the YA The Legends of Thezmarr series (being set after the Shadow War that Wren and Torj were heavily involved in.) 

But was incredibly enjoyable, even without prior knowledge of that series, as Scheuerer weaves the backstory and lore so skilfully into the plot—bringing soo much depth (and dimension) without slowing the pace or getting too exposition-y (which I loved!) 

If you’re planning to read The Legends of Thezmarr, however, I definitely suggest waiting to pick this up until after you’ve finished, so as not to spoil that series’ ending. 

Overall, a phenomenal series starter that’s perfect for anyone craving a slow-burn romance with a side of epic fantasy, political intrigue, or high stakes (poison based) plots (Just be sure to check the TWs.) I honestly don’t know how I’m gonna survive the wait ‘til book 2! 

Also, a huge thank you to Tor Bramble UK / BookBreak UK for the incredible proof