Hello Book Lovers! I’m pretty sure we’re all in the Christmas mood by now but why not reading a gothic fantasy, too? Because you might want to add this one to your TBR.
✔️subplot romance
✔️forced proximity
✔️found family
✔️slow-burn
✔️tending to wounds
✔️gothic fantasy
A few months ago, I saw a reel about this book and immediately added it to my TBR — and WOW, I’m so glad I did because this book was AMAZING!
A brand-new world, a unique magic system, an intriguing plot, and a cast of characters you instantly fall in love with… all from a debut author?! Simply perfect.
What is it about?
Make a bargain—or let the shadows consume you.
Which will it be?
In the frostbitten kingdom of Elvir, Anelize Yarrow has spent her life as an apothecary in her father’s shop tending to those struggling with an ever-growing, unexplained malady. Determined to find a cure in the hopes of putting a stop to it once and for all.
That all changes one night after she rescues a mysterious, wounded stranger with eyes the color of starlight. A decision that will have consequences when she’s hunted down and the wicked threads of dark magic wind tightly around her very soul. Stealing the one thing she cares about most.
With time slipping from her fingers, Anelize will have no choice but to set off in search of answers if she wants to lift the curse cast upon her. Even if that means allying herself with the one responsible for plunging her into darkness in the first place. (Goodreads)
Anelize (Anya), our FMC, is such a strong, resilient, fierce woman, but she’s also willing to open her heart — and I adored that about her. The bond she has with her sister was so beautiful, and it reminded me so much of my older sister. Aaric, our MMC, completely stole my heart. His resilience, the way he keeps smiling and finding light even when the world tries to destroy him… ugh, I LOVED his heart. And the way he loves Anya? Perfection.
The romance may be a subplot, but it’s beautiful, and I cherished those sweet and romantic moments. And let me tell you, the slow burn was worth every second. You can feel the yearning and the love pouring out from this man. Also, the found family in this book is chef’s kiss. I loved Idris, Adan, and Castian and can’t wait to read more of them.
The plot had me hooked, especially in those last few chapters. The tension, the reveals, THE CLIFFHANGER?! I’m still not okay. I’ll be honest, it took me a bit to fully settle into the story at the beginning, but I also had a lot going on personally. I kept going because it sounded so good, and THANK GOODNESS I did because it absolutely delivered.
I’m itching to dive into book two — I just KNOW it’s going to get even better from here 🖤
Thank you so much Rose Marie for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
love, Lin
