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Black Skull Chronicles #1
Of Bones and Skulls
A murdered king. A cynical soldier. A witch with a secret.
When the king of Rhodan is assassinated under supernatural circumstances, Lieutenant Killian Southwick is tasked with bringing the killer to justice. Driven by loyalty and ambition, he’ll do anything to avenge his late king, even if it means teaming up with Elyse Crenshaw.
Elyse is regarded as one of the most powerful witches in the kingdom—and she wants nothing to do with Killian, or anyone for that matter. But when he makes her an compelling offer in exchange for one week’s help with his investigation, she begrudgingly agrees.
After a rocky start, Elyse and Killian learn to work together, but secrets and past tragedies threaten to upend the entire investigation, and their budding romance. From magic potions to talking skulls and everything in between, nothing is as it seems.
Read Of Bones and Skulls , the thrilling and sexy first installment of the Black Skull Chronicles.
When the king of Rhodan is assassinated under supernatural circumstances, Lieutenant Killian Southwick is tasked with bringing the killer to justice. Driven by loyalty and ambition, he’ll do anything to avenge his late king, even if it means teaming up with Elyse Crenshaw.
Elyse is regarded as one of the most powerful witches in the kingdom—and she wants nothing to do with Killian, or anyone for that matter. But when he makes her an compelling offer in exchange for one week’s help with his investigation, she begrudgingly agrees.
After a rocky start, Elyse and Killian learn to work together, but secrets and past tragedies threaten to upend the entire investigation, and their budding romance. From magic potions to talking skulls and everything in between, nothing is as it seems.
Read Of Bones and Skulls , the thrilling and sexy first installment of the Black Skull Chronicles.
398 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2023
115 people are currently reading
1840 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Ziegler
4 books59 followersSamantha always dreamed of being an author. But the tipping point? Watching Season 8 of Game of Thrones.
That was the start of it all, when Samantha decided she would take charge of her own story, and picked up the pen. She wanted to create characters and worlds as captivating as Westeros, but with far more satisfying endings.
She thought she could, and so she did.
Samantha currently lives in Missouri with her wonderful and supportive boyfriend, and her adorable pit bull, Nathan.
She is an absolute nerd and reads as many nonfiction books as fiction, especially books about writing, marketing, and self-betterment. Her favorite TV show is The Magicians and her favorite band is Manchester Orchestra. She'll try just about anything... except skydiving.
Follow her journey on instagram.
That was the start of it all, when Samantha decided she would take charge of her own story, and picked up the pen. She wanted to create characters and worlds as captivating as Westeros, but with far more satisfying endings.
She thought she could, and so she did.
Samantha currently lives in Missouri with her wonderful and supportive boyfriend, and her adorable pit bull, Nathan.
She is an absolute nerd and reads as many nonfiction books as fiction, especially books about writing, marketing, and self-betterment. Her favorite TV show is The Magicians and her favorite band is Manchester Orchestra. She'll try just about anything... except skydiving.
Follow her journey on instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
September 1, 2023
"Are you being polite?"
Killian rubbed the back of his neck and let out a sigh. "It's been a long day. I don't think I have any more fight in me."
Elyse smirked up at him. "Don't worry, I have enough fight for both of us."
Listen to me, ending a book like that is just freaking RUDE.
***
☠️𝗢𝗙 𝗕𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗦𝗞𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗦 - 𝗦𝗔𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗛𝗔 𝗭𝗜𝗘𝗚𝗟𝗘𝗥☠️
★𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦: ⭐⭐⭐½
★𝗬𝗔/𝗡𝗔/𝗔: 🅽🅰
★𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦: 𝙱𝙻𝙰𝙲𝙺 𝚂𝙺𝚄𝙻𝙻 𝙲𝙷𝚁𝙾𝙽𝙸𝙲𝙻𝙴𝚂 #𝟷
★𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗥𝗘 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥𝗧𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦: 𝙿𝙰𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙾𝚁𝙼𝙰𝙻 𝙼𝚈𝚂𝚃𝙴𝚁𝚈 - 𝚆𝙸𝚃𝙲𝙷𝙴𝚂 - 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈
★𝗣𝗢𝗩: 𝙳𝚄𝙰𝙻 𝙿𝙾𝚅 - 𝚃𝙷𝙸𝚁𝙳 𝙿𝙴𝚁𝚂𝙾𝙽 - 𝙿𝙰𝚂𝚃 𝚃𝙴𝙽𝚂𝙴
★𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: 𝙴𝙽𝙴𝙼𝙸𝙴𝚂 𝚃𝙾 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝚁𝚂 - 𝚂𝚃𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙰𝚁 𝙰𝚃𝚃𝚁𝙰𝙲𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽 - 𝚂𝙴𝙲𝚁𝙴𝚃𝚂 - 𝙲𝙸𝚁𝙲𝙰 𝙶𝚁𝚄𝙼𝙿𝚈𝚡𝚂𝚄𝙽𝚂𝙷𝙸𝙽𝙴 - 𝙵𝚄𝙽𝙽𝚈 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝙵𝙻𝙸𝚁𝚃𝚈 𝙱𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁
★𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦: 👥👥👥👥/𝟱
★𝗪𝗥𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼✍🏼/𝟱
★𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧: 📜📜📜½/𝟱
★𝗗𝗔𝗥𝗞 𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗦 & 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗚𝗚𝗘𝗥 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦: 💀💀½/𝟱 (𝙼𝚄𝚁𝙳𝙴𝚁 - 𝙳𝙴𝙰𝚃𝙷 𝙾𝙵 𝙻𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙳 𝙾𝙽𝙴𝚂/𝙵𝚁𝙸𝙴𝙽𝙳𝚂/𝙵𝙰𝙼𝙸𝙻𝚈 𝙼𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁𝚂 - 𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙼𝙸𝙽𝙰𝙻 𝙸𝙻𝙻𝙽𝙴𝚂𝚂 - 𝙾𝚂𝚃𝚁𝙰𝙲𝚈𝚂𝙼 - 𝙸𝙻𝙻𝙴𝙶𝙰𝙻 𝙰𝙲𝚃𝙸𝚅𝙸𝚃𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙻𝙸𝙴𝚂 - 𝙱𝙴𝚃𝚁𝙰𝚈𝙰𝙻𝚂)
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛𝗡𝗜𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗧/𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🔥🔥/𝟱 (𝙽𝙾𝙽-𝙳𝙴𝚂𝙲𝚁𝙸𝙿𝚃𝙸𝚅𝙴 𝚂𝙼𝚄𝚃 - 𝙺𝙸𝚂𝚂𝙸𝙽𝙶 - 𝚃𝙾𝚄𝙲𝙷𝙸𝙽𝙶 - 𝙾𝚁𝙰𝙻 𝚂𝙴𝚇 - 𝚂𝙴𝚇)
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🚒🚒🚒/𝟱
★𝗦𝗠𝗨𝗧 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗬: 💣/𝟱
★𝗘𝗫𝗣𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦: 🤐🤐/5 (𝙼𝙰𝚃𝚄𝚁𝙴 𝙻𝙰𝙽𝙶𝚄𝙰𝙶𝙴 - 𝙻𝙾𝙾𝚂𝙴 𝙳𝙴𝚂𝙲𝚁𝙸𝙿𝚃𝙸𝙾𝙽𝚂 𝙾𝙵 𝚅𝙸𝙾𝙻𝙴𝙽𝙲𝙴 𝙰𝙽𝙳 𝚂𝙴𝚇)
★𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🌻🌻🌻/𝟱
★𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗬: 🌹🌹🌹½/𝟱
★𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗟 𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗦𝗧 𝗟𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗟: 💔💔💔/𝟱
★𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗔𝗡𝗚𝗟𝗘: ❌
★𝗠𝗔𝗜𝗡 𝗥𝗢𝗠𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: 𝙵/𝙼 (𝙸𝙽𝚃𝙴𝚁𝚁𝙰𝙲𝙸𝙰𝙻 𝙼𝙰𝙸𝙽 𝙲𝙾𝚄𝙿𝙻𝙴)
★𝗥𝗘𝗣: 𝚃𝙴𝚁𝙼𝙸𝙽𝙰𝙻 𝙳𝙸𝚂𝙴𝙰𝚂𝙴 - 𝙿𝙾𝙲 𝙼𝙼𝙲
★𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗘𝗦-𝗧𝗢-𝗟𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗦: 🖤🖤🖤/𝟱
★𝗧𝗬𝗣𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚:
★𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗚: 🎶𝙿𝙸𝚂𝚃𝙾𝙻𝚂 𝙰𝚃 𝙳𝙰𝚆𝙽 - 𝚂𝙴𝙸𝙽𝙰𝙱𝙾 𝚂𝙴𝚈🎶
▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▰
***I always try to be as objective as I can with my ratings for DARK THEMES & TRIGGER WARNINGS, SMUT TECHNICAL CONTENT/INTENSITY, SMUT QUANTITY, ROMANCE QUANTITY, ANGST LEVEL, ENEMIES-TO-LOVERSNESS; the ratings for CHARACTERS, WRITING, PLOT, SMUT QUALITY, ROMANCE QUALITY, are instead tied to my own subjective reading experience and final opinion of the book.
But, not gonna lie, I imagined this darker and definitely smuttier.
Don't know why...maybe because of the cover, or maybe because it belongs to that particular category of books Koisty recommended to me, and by this point, I think we all know what to expect from one of her book recs.
Anyway, I'll keep this short and simple because I think I'm in a little review slump, and I'm afraid pushing it might only make it worse.
Of Bones and Skulls is entertaining and skillfully paced, with an interesting central mystery and a magic system made of spells and potions I really loved.
Elyse and Killian are both solid main characters, but I admit it took me a little longer to warm up to Killian and the stick he seemed to have perpetually stuck up his ass.
The romance wasn't bad, but it also felt a little plain and rushed, and I was slightly underwhelmed by the build up, especially for what concerns the progression from enemies to lovers, that fell unfortunately flat.
I swear my lack of enthusiasm has nothing to do with the fact that this had little to no smut. It just was...basic.
Overall this was pretty gripping from start to finish, despite its little flaws, and I can't wait for the sequel because that ending was pure evil.
May 15, 2023
This was pretty average..I enjoyed Elyse as an FMC, she did what she had to do without whining about it, which I appreciated.
The romance, was marketed as enemies to lovers but it really wasn’t, they were in love at the half way mark so.
Also Killian, the love interest sucked.
The plot itself was pretty predictable and kind of superficial, I found myself spacing out at some parts because I was bored. So yeah, 2* because as much as I enjoyed Elyse, I just couldn’t get behind the romance or the plot.
The romance, was marketed as enemies to lovers but it really wasn’t, they were in love at the half way mark so.
Also Killian, the love interest sucked.
The plot itself was pretty predictable and kind of superficial, I found myself spacing out at some parts because I was bored. So yeah, 2* because as much as I enjoyed Elyse, I just couldn’t get behind the romance or the plot.
April 15, 2023
This book was my introduction into darker fantasy and I LOVED IT SO MUCH!!! The characters, the plot, the worldbuilding, the vibes… it was so beautiful. I had the honor of beta reading for the lovely Samantha Ziegler, and I loved it all the way through! My favorite character was Elyse— I loved how she wasn’t just a misunderstood character, but she had actual flaws. It was so refreshing to read a character who has actual issues! Her love interest, Killian, immediately had a place on my book husband list— he’s literally the best! I could go on and on about this story and these characters, but I don’t want to spoil it for you. Read this book, y’all!
June 27, 2025
This was a great fantasy read! Great character arc for the FMC and I found all the characters loveable. I really enjoy short chapters and the story moves along great! Many moments to keep you on your toes and the ending...gah! Already can't wait for book 2!
~~
Reread: enjoyable and good introduction to fantasy/romantasy. Lots of fun moments to keep you on your toes and loveable characters!
“That was stupid of you.” His shoulders fell, but he held her gaze. She continued, “But I’ve found I like it when you do stupid things.”
~~
Reread: enjoyable and good introduction to fantasy/romantasy. Lots of fun moments to keep you on your toes and loveable characters!
“That was stupid of you.” His shoulders fell, but he held her gaze. She continued, “But I’ve found I like it when you do stupid things.”
March 12, 2023
I couldn't put this book down! I instantly fell in love with the main characters, and the storyline had me intrigued from the beginning. There were twists and turns that took me completely by surprise. Then, there was the added layer of depth created by the trauma healing characters had to process, which Samantha did a beautiful job of writing. This was definitely one of my favorite books I've read in awhile. I absolutely can not wait for the next book in the series!
March 16, 2023
This book is EVERYTHING 😍 I am on edge from that cliffhanger counting down the days until book 2 comes out! The love/hate relationship between Killian and Elyse is smoldering! The portrayal of magic is amazing! It still feels like a real-world setting but still has just the right amount of fantasy element to it! The storyline is phenomenal, and I definitely had quite a few jaw-dropping "that did NOT just happen" 😱 moments! Bottom line READ.THIS.BOOK!
July 10, 2023
⁝⁝ ARC REVIEW ⁝⁝
❝Are you being polite?❞
❝It's been a long day. I don't think I have any more fight in me.❞
❝Don't worry, I have enough fight for both of us.❞
• • •
✦ CHARACTERS
» Elyse Crenshaw – She's a hurricane! With a thorny exterior and rough edges, she is a powerful, feisty, fierce, and sassy silver-haired witch that is shameless about using her powers. She does have a softer side that eventually comes out, but that only makes you fall in love with her even more.
» Lieutenant Killian Southwick – He’s structured, disciplined, determined, compassionate, and chivalrous. Killian is part of the Royal Guard and hates magic users.
» Manny / Manfriend – He's Killian’s best friend. A cocky, charming, and funny Royal Guard who is an absolute delight throughout the book. I love him so much, and I need more of him asap!
» (Madame) Sera – She’s a Seer with a contagious optimism. I love her, and I need more of her!
✦ CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
» Elyse starts as a grumpy loner who is utterly shameless about who she is and honestly doesn't care about what others think of her either. She has amassed a reputation that instigates both fear and respect in the hearts of others. Eventually, she finds in herself a bit more light than she expected, which propels a change in her.
» Killian begins his journey as someone who detests magic users. Then, he needs Elyse’s help to solve a murder mystery which he is not happy about, of course. However, compared to Elyse, Killian is more on the sunshine side. As the story unfolds, things begin to change for him, and his perspective slowly begins to shift as well.
» Elyse and Killian start in a rough place, forced to work side by side and face their traumas. Throughout the book, they have to work on overcoming their differences and finding a mutual and common ground if they want any relationship to work. I liked seeing how they move forward and started to see one another for who they truly were.
✦ PLOT DEVELOPMENT
The book is told in a dual POV, which helps us understand more about the characters' behaviors as the story progresses. Even though it can be a bit slow or fast at times, the last part of the book leaves you on the edge of your seat.
✦ WRITING STYLE
Samantha has a simple and direct writing style. She conveys the actions and thoughts of the characters pretty straightforwardly. The world she has created has some pretty solid rules, which ground the story and allow full immersion.
✦ DETAILS & TWs
🔞 18+ read due to explicit content. Trigger warnings can be found at the beginning of the book.
◈ Enemies-to-Lovers
◈ Forced Proximity
◈ Knife to the throat
◈ Badass FMC
◈ Witchy Reads
◈ Slow Burn
◈ Plot Twists
◈ Dual POV
◈ Blood and Violence
✦ SCORES
Spicy content: 2/5
Spicy quality: 3/5
Overall Score: 4/5
✦ FINAL THOUGHTS
I enjoyed this book a lot. Elyse was my favorite by far, followed by Manny and Sera. Personally, I think Killian needs a bit more flavor, and I’m hoping for more darkness on his end for the next installment. (I'm crossing my fingers he's closer to morally grey in future books, especially because of that AMAZING cliffy ending!) The enemies-to-lovers part of the book could have used a bit more banter and spark, but it worked nonetheless. The book has a good amount of darkness; however, I'm anxiously waiting for the next installment to be full of it because of the cliffhanger. All in all, the Black Skull Chronicles has potential to become a favorite series. I definitely recommend giving this book a go!
Thank you so much for the ARC.
❝Are you being polite?❞
❝It's been a long day. I don't think I have any more fight in me.❞
❝Don't worry, I have enough fight for both of us.❞
• • •
✦ CHARACTERS
» Elyse Crenshaw – She's a hurricane! With a thorny exterior and rough edges, she is a powerful, feisty, fierce, and sassy silver-haired witch that is shameless about using her powers. She does have a softer side that eventually comes out, but that only makes you fall in love with her even more.
» Lieutenant Killian Southwick – He’s structured, disciplined, determined, compassionate, and chivalrous. Killian is part of the Royal Guard and hates magic users.
» Manny / Manfriend – He's Killian’s best friend. A cocky, charming, and funny Royal Guard who is an absolute delight throughout the book. I love him so much, and I need more of him asap!
» (Madame) Sera – She’s a Seer with a contagious optimism. I love her, and I need more of her!
✦ CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
» Elyse starts as a grumpy loner who is utterly shameless about who she is and honestly doesn't care about what others think of her either. She has amassed a reputation that instigates both fear and respect in the hearts of others. Eventually, she finds in herself a bit more light than she expected, which propels a change in her.
» Killian begins his journey as someone who detests magic users. Then, he needs Elyse’s help to solve a murder mystery which he is not happy about, of course. However, compared to Elyse, Killian is more on the sunshine side. As the story unfolds, things begin to change for him, and his perspective slowly begins to shift as well.
» Elyse and Killian start in a rough place, forced to work side by side and face their traumas. Throughout the book, they have to work on overcoming their differences and finding a mutual and common ground if they want any relationship to work. I liked seeing how they move forward and started to see one another for who they truly were.
✦ PLOT DEVELOPMENT
The book is told in a dual POV, which helps us understand more about the characters' behaviors as the story progresses. Even though it can be a bit slow or fast at times, the last part of the book leaves you on the edge of your seat.
✦ WRITING STYLE
Samantha has a simple and direct writing style. She conveys the actions and thoughts of the characters pretty straightforwardly. The world she has created has some pretty solid rules, which ground the story and allow full immersion.
✦ DETAILS & TWs
🔞 18+ read due to explicit content. Trigger warnings can be found at the beginning of the book.
◈ Enemies-to-Lovers
◈ Forced Proximity
◈ Knife to the throat
◈ Badass FMC
◈ Witchy Reads
◈ Slow Burn
◈ Plot Twists
◈ Dual POV
◈ Blood and Violence
✦ SCORES
Spicy content: 2/5
Spicy quality: 3/5
Overall Score: 4/5
✦ FINAL THOUGHTS
I enjoyed this book a lot. Elyse was my favorite by far, followed by Manny and Sera. Personally, I think Killian needs a bit more flavor, and I’m hoping for more darkness on his end for the next installment. (I'm crossing my fingers he's closer to morally grey in future books, especially because of that AMAZING cliffy ending!) The enemies-to-lovers part of the book could have used a bit more banter and spark, but it worked nonetheless. The book has a good amount of darkness; however, I'm anxiously waiting for the next installment to be full of it because of the cliffhanger. All in all, the Black Skull Chronicles has potential to become a favorite series. I definitely recommend giving this book a go!
Thank you so much for the ARC.
April 1, 2023
This is an awesome book with lots of angst!
April 8, 2023
Tropes / Key Points:
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Alliance of Convenience
✨Strong/Powerful FMC
✨Dark Secret
✨Slow Burn
✨Dual POV
✨Dark Fantasy/Themes
✨Witchy Reads
Spice: 🌶️
The benevolent and beloved king of Rhodan has been murdered. He was slain in his bedroom with no one around to witness it. No one had entered the room after he retired to sleep, yet somehow he died a gruesome death from magical means.
Lieutenant Killian is tasked with investigating the murder to bring the culprit to justice. There’s just one problem, he knows nothing of the occult magics and loathes anyone who practices. He is forced to work with a renowned witch to get to the bottom of the looming mystery.
He is driven to solve the murder and find justice for the late king, even if it means he must reluctantly team up with Elyse. It would go easily if she wanted nothing to do with him or his investigation. After minor blackmail and an appealing offer of aid, Elyse agrees to work with him for one week to help him find the killer.
After a tepid and frustrating start, the duo begin to work together and make moves to close out the search. But, secrets on both sides and a looming darkness threaten to terminate their agreement, and budding romance.
It has been so long since I sat down to read a book within a day. This book brought that out in me and I absolutely devoured it. I didn’t want to put it down as it was absolutely gripping.
I can’t think of anything even slightly negative to say about this book. It has everything that you could want. Political intrigue that isn’t too hard to follow. Witchy powers and potions. Banter between the FMC and MMC. Slow burn developing romance. Dark secrets and themes that make you question what you know and think.
The development of both the main characters was done so well. It wasn’t rushed and everything helped serve the plot. I think some authors add in stuff that didn’t need to be included sometimes but this author did not. There isn’t a single thing I wish was taken out.
The pacing of the story is amazing and it kept me wanting to read. I didn’t want to put it down even to eat! There were moments scattered in the book that pulled at the heartstrings and as someone who loves emotional torture in books, I was so happy to have them included. There are characters that you will love and those you will hate. The twist of the story was jaw dropping and I couldn’t restrain myself from reaching out to the author on Instagram to talk about it!
I am so thankful that I was able to be an Arc Reader for this book and am looking forward to more from this author! This is such an amazing debut novel and I am so mad I am an ARC reader in some ways because I can’t go straight into book two.
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Alliance of Convenience
✨Strong/Powerful FMC
✨Dark Secret
✨Slow Burn
✨Dual POV
✨Dark Fantasy/Themes
✨Witchy Reads
Spice: 🌶️
The benevolent and beloved king of Rhodan has been murdered. He was slain in his bedroom with no one around to witness it. No one had entered the room after he retired to sleep, yet somehow he died a gruesome death from magical means.
Lieutenant Killian is tasked with investigating the murder to bring the culprit to justice. There’s just one problem, he knows nothing of the occult magics and loathes anyone who practices. He is forced to work with a renowned witch to get to the bottom of the looming mystery.
He is driven to solve the murder and find justice for the late king, even if it means he must reluctantly team up with Elyse. It would go easily if she wanted nothing to do with him or his investigation. After minor blackmail and an appealing offer of aid, Elyse agrees to work with him for one week to help him find the killer.
After a tepid and frustrating start, the duo begin to work together and make moves to close out the search. But, secrets on both sides and a looming darkness threaten to terminate their agreement, and budding romance.
It has been so long since I sat down to read a book within a day. This book brought that out in me and I absolutely devoured it. I didn’t want to put it down as it was absolutely gripping.
I can’t think of anything even slightly negative to say about this book. It has everything that you could want. Political intrigue that isn’t too hard to follow. Witchy powers and potions. Banter between the FMC and MMC. Slow burn developing romance. Dark secrets and themes that make you question what you know and think.
The development of both the main characters was done so well. It wasn’t rushed and everything helped serve the plot. I think some authors add in stuff that didn’t need to be included sometimes but this author did not. There isn’t a single thing I wish was taken out.
The pacing of the story is amazing and it kept me wanting to read. I didn’t want to put it down even to eat! There were moments scattered in the book that pulled at the heartstrings and as someone who loves emotional torture in books, I was so happy to have them included. There are characters that you will love and those you will hate. The twist of the story was jaw dropping and I couldn’t restrain myself from reaching out to the author on Instagram to talk about it!
I am so thankful that I was able to be an Arc Reader for this book and am looking forward to more from this author! This is such an amazing debut novel and I am so mad I am an ARC reader in some ways because I can’t go straight into book two.
April 17, 2023
⚡️ARC Bᴏᴏᴋ Rᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ⚡️
“I see the pain in your eyes when you think no one’s looking. But I’m always looking at you, Elyse.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️／5
🌶🍒／5
🇬🇧: God, I had so much fun reading this book! I love books about witches and magic, they have something - attention, surprise - magical, 🤭, about themselves. And I finally found a book, that pulled me out of my reading slump! Thank goodness..
I had a great time reading this story and watching the relationship and feelings develop between the two main characters: Killian (a lieutenant in the royal guard) and Elyse (a witch of great power) going throughout the book. And their banter.. Ugh, the best! ❤️ The whole thing was accompanied by a worthy action, which only spins the whole story, full of intrigue, secrets and an investigation of the king's murder. Of course, there will be surprise (for me) and cliffhanger! You’ve been warned! 😅
The book was written in the third person, which may not be very popular and likeable by some readers, but it was some kind of freshness and it was written beautifully!
I highly recommend it to you! Great debut, congratulations! And I can’t wait for sequel!!!
🇵🇱: Rany boskie, jak ja dobrze bawiłam się, czytając tę książkę! Uwielbiam książki o czarownicach i magii, mają w sobie coś - uwaga, zaskoczenie - magicznego 🤭. W końcu trafiłam na historię, która wyciągnęła mnie z czytelniczego slump’a. Dzięki Bogu..
Świetnie czytało mi się i obserwowało rozwijającą się przez całość znajomość i rodzące się uczucia pomiędzy dwójką głównych bohaterów : Killianem (porucznikiem królewskiej gwardii) i Elyse (czarownicą o wielkiej mocy). A ich przekomarzanie się? Cudowne! ❤️ Całości towarzyszyła warta akcja, która tylko nakręca całą historię, pełna intryg, tajemnic i śledztwa morderstwa króla. Oczywiście nie zabraknie zaskoczenia i cliffhanger’a! Ostrzegałam! 😅
Książka napisana napisana w trzeciej osobie, co może nie być zbyt lubiane i jest niezbyt popularne obecnie, ale był to jakiś powiem świeżości w moim czytelniczym dorobku tego roku i czytało mi się to cudownie!
Ogromnie Wam ją polecam! Świetny debiut, gratuluję!
“I see the pain in your eyes when you think no one’s looking. But I’m always looking at you, Elyse.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️／5
🌶🍒／5
🇬🇧: God, I had so much fun reading this book! I love books about witches and magic, they have something - attention, surprise - magical, 🤭, about themselves. And I finally found a book, that pulled me out of my reading slump! Thank goodness..
I had a great time reading this story and watching the relationship and feelings develop between the two main characters: Killian (a lieutenant in the royal guard) and Elyse (a witch of great power) going throughout the book. And their banter.. Ugh, the best! ❤️ The whole thing was accompanied by a worthy action, which only spins the whole story, full of intrigue, secrets and an investigation of the king's murder. Of course, there will be surprise (for me) and cliffhanger! You’ve been warned! 😅
The book was written in the third person, which may not be very popular and likeable by some readers, but it was some kind of freshness and it was written beautifully!
I highly recommend it to you! Great debut, congratulations! And I can’t wait for sequel!!!
🇵🇱: Rany boskie, jak ja dobrze bawiłam się, czytając tę książkę! Uwielbiam książki o czarownicach i magii, mają w sobie coś - uwaga, zaskoczenie - magicznego 🤭. W końcu trafiłam na historię, która wyciągnęła mnie z czytelniczego slump’a. Dzięki Bogu..
Świetnie czytało mi się i obserwowało rozwijającą się przez całość znajomość i rodzące się uczucia pomiędzy dwójką głównych bohaterów : Killianem (porucznikiem królewskiej gwardii) i Elyse (czarownicą o wielkiej mocy). A ich przekomarzanie się? Cudowne! ❤️ Całości towarzyszyła warta akcja, która tylko nakręca całą historię, pełna intryg, tajemnic i śledztwa morderstwa króla. Oczywiście nie zabraknie zaskoczenia i cliffhanger’a! Ostrzegałam! 😅
Książka napisana napisana w trzeciej osobie, co może nie być zbyt lubiane i jest niezbyt popularne obecnie, ale był to jakiś powiem świeżości w moim czytelniczym dorobku tego roku i czytało mi się to cudownie!
Ogromnie Wam ją polecam! Świetny debiut, gratuluję!
April 25, 2023
I really enjoyed this!
Of Bones and Skulls is perfect if you love:
-morally grey witches
-banter
-reluctant allies to lovers
-cynical lieutenants
-murder mysteries
OBAS follows Elyse, a powerful witch with a dark secret, and Killian, a lieutenant who hates magic. When Killian forces Elyse to help him solve the king's murder, the two start to fall for each other, reluctantly.
"I see you Killian," she said firmly. "I see you, and I'm still here."
First, I adored Elyse and Killian's dynamic. I love how Elyse starts to see past Killian's walls and cares for him. I love how safe Elyse feels around Killian, and how she finally feels 'normal' in a way that she's never felt.
The side characters were great, and I'm really looking forward to more Manny shenanigans.
The next installment in the Black Skull Chronicles is currently a need, especially after the ending of this one.
All in all, this was a fantastic start to a new fantasy series and I'm super excited that I got to be a part of the street team for OBAS!
Many thanks to Samantha Ziegler for the eARC!
Of Bones and Skulls is perfect if you love:
-morally grey witches
-banter
-reluctant allies to lovers
-cynical lieutenants
-murder mysteries
OBAS follows Elyse, a powerful witch with a dark secret, and Killian, a lieutenant who hates magic. When Killian forces Elyse to help him solve the king's murder, the two start to fall for each other, reluctantly.
"I see you Killian," she said firmly. "I see you, and I'm still here."
First, I adored Elyse and Killian's dynamic. I love how Elyse starts to see past Killian's walls and cares for him. I love how safe Elyse feels around Killian, and how she finally feels 'normal' in a way that she's never felt.
The side characters were great, and I'm really looking forward to more Manny shenanigans.
The next installment in the Black Skull Chronicles is currently a need, especially after the ending of this one.
All in all, this was a fantastic start to a new fantasy series and I'm super excited that I got to be a part of the street team for OBAS!
Many thanks to Samantha Ziegler for the eARC!
April 19, 2023
ARC BOOK REVIEW
Wow - what an incredible debut novel from Samantha Ziegler!
While this book had many positive aspects, I think it's accessibility is perhaps it's strongest asset. Fantasy (even fantasy romance) can so often become overwhelming, with its complex world-building, intricate characters, magic systems, etc. Samantha did a wonderful job of giving us a TRUE fantasy novel without the pain of trying to decipher what the heck is actually going on! Our main character is a witch with both an easy to understand, and wildly interesting, connection to magic. Our world is both "otherworldly" and familiar, reminiscent of a whimsical renaissance adventure.
Focusing on the romance aspect of this book a bit more - boy, was this a wonderful example of our well-loved "enemies-to-lovers" trope. (I may be biased - this is, in fact, my favorite trope). We, as the readers, can immediately sense the sexual tension between Elyse and Killian, and we, as the readers, are immediately on the edge of our seats waiting for the "fireworks". While this is certainly a slow burn, and the "spicy" chapters are a bit subdued, I think it actually works incredibly well. I didn't need anything more explicit to feel the burn between these characters. I think Samantha did an amazing job of balancing the plot to spice ratio in this novel.
Needless to say, I am waiting anxiously for part 2 because OMG WHAT WAS THAT CLIFF HANGER?!
Bravo, Samantha! I am so grateful to have been able to enjoy an Arc copy of this book and will certainly be buying a hard copy for my shelf.
Wow - what an incredible debut novel from Samantha Ziegler!
While this book had many positive aspects, I think it's accessibility is perhaps it's strongest asset. Fantasy (even fantasy romance) can so often become overwhelming, with its complex world-building, intricate characters, magic systems, etc. Samantha did a wonderful job of giving us a TRUE fantasy novel without the pain of trying to decipher what the heck is actually going on! Our main character is a witch with both an easy to understand, and wildly interesting, connection to magic. Our world is both "otherworldly" and familiar, reminiscent of a whimsical renaissance adventure.
Focusing on the romance aspect of this book a bit more - boy, was this a wonderful example of our well-loved "enemies-to-lovers" trope. (I may be biased - this is, in fact, my favorite trope). We, as the readers, can immediately sense the sexual tension between Elyse and Killian, and we, as the readers, are immediately on the edge of our seats waiting for the "fireworks". While this is certainly a slow burn, and the "spicy" chapters are a bit subdued, I think it actually works incredibly well. I didn't need anything more explicit to feel the burn between these characters. I think Samantha did an amazing job of balancing the plot to spice ratio in this novel.
Needless to say, I am waiting anxiously for part 2 because OMG WHAT WAS THAT CLIFF HANGER?!
Bravo, Samantha! I am so grateful to have been able to enjoy an Arc copy of this book and will certainly be buying a hard copy for my shelf.
March 16, 2023
I had the pleasure of beta reading this amazing book and I absolutely LOVED every moment of it. The writing made me feel like I was right there with characters! Also the ending… I’m still not over it! Just wow!
May 5, 2023
4.5⭐
I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading Of Bones and Skulls. So much so that I read it in less than 24hrs. Was I on a plane for the majority of those hours with nothing else to do but read? Yes, but still... It was captivating, drew me in immediately, and the characters and story are amazing.
I loved the way OBAS started. Getting to see the king's murder and then jumping into the POVs was so fun and interesting. And the cliffhanger wasn't as bad as I thought it'd be. I didn't cry, which is surprising, however I am thoroughly speechless and in dire need of book 2!
If you like fantasies with a side of murder mystery, forced proximity, bargains, and an intriguing magic system, then this is definitely the book for you.
I love Killian. His tenderness towards Elyse once they finally got their shit together was so adorable. It also helped that everytime I read his name I thought of captain hook from once upon a time🫠😆
"You are the strongest, most fierce woman I have ever met," he began. "I need you to know that you take my breath away every moment of every day. My heart is completely yours."
Elyse is a badass, snarky, magical queen. I loved learning more about her past and watching her try to heal. And I can't wait to get answers to the billion and one questions running around in my head🥲
"I'd say pleased to meet you as well, but I detest lying"
Huge thanks to Samantha for the ARC😍🥰
I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading Of Bones and Skulls. So much so that I read it in less than 24hrs. Was I on a plane for the majority of those hours with nothing else to do but read? Yes, but still... It was captivating, drew me in immediately, and the characters and story are amazing.
I loved the way OBAS started. Getting to see the king's murder and then jumping into the POVs was so fun and interesting. And the cliffhanger wasn't as bad as I thought it'd be. I didn't cry, which is surprising, however I am thoroughly speechless and in dire need of book 2!
If you like fantasies with a side of murder mystery, forced proximity, bargains, and an intriguing magic system, then this is definitely the book for you.
I love Killian. His tenderness towards Elyse once they finally got their shit together was so adorable. It also helped that everytime I read his name I thought of captain hook from once upon a time🫠😆
"You are the strongest, most fierce woman I have ever met," he began. "I need you to know that you take my breath away every moment of every day. My heart is completely yours."
Elyse is a badass, snarky, magical queen. I loved learning more about her past and watching her try to heal. And I can't wait to get answers to the billion and one questions running around in my head🥲
"I'd say pleased to meet you as well, but I detest lying"
Huge thanks to Samantha for the ARC😍🥰
August 4, 2023
4.5 ⭐
Me and this book, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G 🖤
The cliffhanger made this one stick in my head days after reading it. I cannot wait to see what happens next. It is sweet agony.
The characters are truly developed, and truly interesting. The pacing of the story is sublime. It's "dark" but infused with humor (I laughed out loud many times and it's not easy to get me to laugh while reading). I love the witchiness, the world, the element of mystery. I laughed, I gasped, I kicked my feet, I stayed up waaaaay too late.
And the romance! It is so filled with delicious angst (and I am a sucker for angst). It's opposites attract, a little forbidden. They'll make you swoon and they'll break your heart. Elyse and Killian were truly unexpected in each other's lives, but their burgeoning feelings are a freight train that can't be stopped. There is also something so enticing about a romantic relationship that is angtsy and conflict-ridden, but that conflict is due to life circumstances that can't be controlled and not because the characters themselves are toxic or bad for each other.
Samantha Ziegler is a talent and I can't wait to continue this story and see what she comes out with in the future!
Me and this book, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G 🖤
The cliffhanger made this one stick in my head days after reading it. I cannot wait to see what happens next. It is sweet agony.
The characters are truly developed, and truly interesting. The pacing of the story is sublime. It's "dark" but infused with humor (I laughed out loud many times and it's not easy to get me to laugh while reading). I love the witchiness, the world, the element of mystery. I laughed, I gasped, I kicked my feet, I stayed up waaaaay too late.
And the romance! It is so filled with delicious angst (and I am a sucker for angst). It's opposites attract, a little forbidden. They'll make you swoon and they'll break your heart. Elyse and Killian were truly unexpected in each other's lives, but their burgeoning feelings are a freight train that can't be stopped. There is also something so enticing about a romantic relationship that is angtsy and conflict-ridden, but that conflict is due to life circumstances that can't be controlled and not because the characters themselves are toxic or bad for each other.
Samantha Ziegler is a talent and I can't wait to continue this story and see what she comes out with in the future!
April 29, 2023
Fans of strong witchy women and straight laced, duty-bound soldiers will love Of Bones and Skulls! When I first read the blurb and saw the cover, it was love at first sight! Then I started the Black Skull Chronicles and devoured it in a single sitting!
Of Bones and Skulls is a dark fantasy romance full of:
- Court Politics
- Dual POV
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Late 20s FMC
- Murder Mystery
- Slowburn Romance
- Unlikely Alliances
The romance is light on the enemies and heavy on the lovers. It feels a bit instant with only a small dose of spice, but I didn’t mind. I was captivated by the characters. In terms of worldbuilding and plot, there’s plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing (and I doubt you’ll see the cliffhanger ending coming).
I do wish we got to know more about the side characters. I also prefer to be steeped in mythology and lore, so I would have loved more worldbuilding. But Ziegler is so good at balancing character and plot development that I’m sure she’ll introduce more in book two.
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of this debut novel!
Of Bones and Skulls is a dark fantasy romance full of:
- Court Politics
- Dual POV
- Enemies to Lovers
- Forced Proximity
- Late 20s FMC
- Murder Mystery
- Slowburn Romance
- Unlikely Alliances
The romance is light on the enemies and heavy on the lovers. It feels a bit instant with only a small dose of spice, but I didn’t mind. I was captivated by the characters. In terms of worldbuilding and plot, there’s plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing (and I doubt you’ll see the cliffhanger ending coming).
I do wish we got to know more about the side characters. I also prefer to be steeped in mythology and lore, so I would have loved more worldbuilding. But Ziegler is so good at balancing character and plot development that I’m sure she’ll introduce more in book two.
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced copy of this debut novel!
April 18, 2023
You’re telling me this is a debut novel? There’s no way! This book was so fun!! You all know I’m all about a strong FMC and Elyse was it!
This book is a murder investigation to find out who killed the king, a self discovery journey for the most badass witch in town, and a slow burn romance with a member of the royal guard.
I especially enjoyed watching Elyse’s character growth throughout the story, the help she brought to other women, as well as her sassy attitude. I can’t wait to get ahold of the sequel to see what happens next.
* Before reading this book, be sure to check the trigger warnings.
This book is a murder investigation to find out who killed the king, a self discovery journey for the most badass witch in town, and a slow burn romance with a member of the royal guard.
I especially enjoyed watching Elyse’s character growth throughout the story, the help she brought to other women, as well as her sassy attitude. I can’t wait to get ahold of the sequel to see what happens next.
* Before reading this book, be sure to check the trigger warnings.
April 17, 2023
First of all, thank you so much Samantha for the ARC!
I truly enjoyed this book from the start. We’ve got a fantasy murder mystery, enemies to lovers, MAGIC!!! What more could you ask for?
It starts off with the murder of the King of Rhodan and Lieutenant Killian Southwick is in charge of figuring out who did it. He aligns himself with the witch Elyse Crenshaw (not that either of them are happy about it) to uncover who the murderer is. He despises magic and therefor already has a mistrust of Elyse. And Elyse isn’t happy to have the disruption in her fairly solitary life. He gives her no choice but to help him and so begins the twists and turns of their investigation.
Little does Killian know, Elyse is hiding a major secret. And as their feelings for each other grow, she becomes more and more scared for him to find out.
This is an enemies to lovers story that will have you in its clutches from start to finish! And it does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you ready for more of Elyse and Killian’s story.
I highly recommend this book, especially if you’re a sucker for a good murder mystery!
I truly enjoyed this book from the start. We’ve got a fantasy murder mystery, enemies to lovers, MAGIC!!! What more could you ask for?
It starts off with the murder of the King of Rhodan and Lieutenant Killian Southwick is in charge of figuring out who did it. He aligns himself with the witch Elyse Crenshaw (not that either of them are happy about it) to uncover who the murderer is. He despises magic and therefor already has a mistrust of Elyse. And Elyse isn’t happy to have the disruption in her fairly solitary life. He gives her no choice but to help him and so begins the twists and turns of their investigation.
Little does Killian know, Elyse is hiding a major secret. And as their feelings for each other grow, she becomes more and more scared for him to find out.
This is an enemies to lovers story that will have you in its clutches from start to finish! And it does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you ready for more of Elyse and Killian’s story.
I highly recommend this book, especially if you’re a sucker for a good murder mystery!
April 17, 2023
Thank you so much Samantha for providing me this ARC! This was my first dark fantasy book and I ended up loving it! The world building wasn’t slow at all and I never felt overwhelmed by information like a lot of fantasy books. I loved the dual P.O.V. so that we learn more about both the FMC Elyse and the MMC Killian.
Anyone who knows me knows I love witch characters and Elyse was no exception! I loved the blend of strength, wickedness, kindness, and sass in her character and how mysterious her backstory is. Killian was a fun MMC and I really enjoyed both his playfulness and seriousness and his sense of duty. One of the best parts of this book was seeing their character evolution and inner turmoil and I’m excited to see more of it in the next book!
I’m always obsessed with the enemies to lovers trope and this book definitely had it! I wish the slow burn was a little more drawn out as it felt kind of rushed in some parts but I enjoyed the spicy parts.
The plot twist THREW me and I audibly gasped and sped through the ending and the CLIFFHANGER omg. I need the second book ASAP!!
Anyone who knows me knows I love witch characters and Elyse was no exception! I loved the blend of strength, wickedness, kindness, and sass in her character and how mysterious her backstory is. Killian was a fun MMC and I really enjoyed both his playfulness and seriousness and his sense of duty. One of the best parts of this book was seeing their character evolution and inner turmoil and I’m excited to see more of it in the next book!
I’m always obsessed with the enemies to lovers trope and this book definitely had it! I wish the slow burn was a little more drawn out as it felt kind of rushed in some parts but I enjoyed the spicy parts.
The plot twist THREW me and I audibly gasped and sped through the ending and the CLIFFHANGER omg. I need the second book ASAP!!
April 15, 2023
A murdered king leads the lieutenant of the guard to enlist the help of a powerful witch to find the murderer. The two are enemies from the start as Killian despises magic and anyone involved with it and Elyse is a cynical smart a** with a hard outer shell. As they continue to work together the enemies become lovers but there is a secret that Elyse is keeping that could ruin everything.
I am so happy I got to read this story as an ARC reader. I just loved this story. The tension between Killian and Elyse and their banter was just right and I was really rooting for them throughout the story. Even once the reader discovers Elyse’s secret I was still pushing to see the best in her and I was completely on her side. Heads up that this book ends on a major cliff hanger and I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens. I’m also hoping it will answer a few questions that are swimming around in my head from the first book about a certain dark figure.
I am so happy I got to read this story as an ARC reader. I just loved this story. The tension between Killian and Elyse and their banter was just right and I was really rooting for them throughout the story. Even once the reader discovers Elyse’s secret I was still pushing to see the best in her and I was completely on her side. Heads up that this book ends on a major cliff hanger and I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I can find out what happens. I’m also hoping it will answer a few questions that are swimming around in my head from the first book about a certain dark figure.
April 14, 2023
Thank you Samantha for giving me an opportunity to beta and arc read this book.
Spoiler free review!
I loved the way how perfectly the author balanced suspense, mystery and hate to love romance. The world building was rich and deliciously sensual. The development of the characters was amazing not rushed, not slowed. It's plot driven since both MCs working in forced proximity to find a culprit who murdered the King. I loved how slowly changes from sworn enemies to friends to lovers. Witty banters. Fast paced with dual pov filled with actions, dark secrets/ magics, curse, angst, emotional ride.
Plot twist and turns left my jaw on the floor which I never saw coming and it was a wonder I didn't throw my Kindle after the cliffhanger. I can't wait to know what'd happen in book 2.
Spoiler free review!
I loved the way how perfectly the author balanced suspense, mystery and hate to love romance. The world building was rich and deliciously sensual. The development of the characters was amazing not rushed, not slowed. It's plot driven since both MCs working in forced proximity to find a culprit who murdered the King. I loved how slowly changes from sworn enemies to friends to lovers. Witty banters. Fast paced with dual pov filled with actions, dark secrets/ magics, curse, angst, emotional ride.
Plot twist and turns left my jaw on the floor which I never saw coming and it was a wonder I didn't throw my Kindle after the cliffhanger. I can't wait to know what'd happen in book 2.
April 17, 2023
Review to come!
Thanks to the author for providing me my first ever ARC, it was a wonderful experience knowing not many people have read this.
This was a great intro to a new fantasy romance series and it hit almost all of the marks for me in that aspect. And that ending was *chef’s kiss*.
Thanks to the author for providing me my first ever ARC, it was a wonderful experience knowing not many people have read this.
This was a great intro to a new fantasy romance series and it hit almost all of the marks for me in that aspect. And that ending was *chef’s kiss*.
April 22, 2023
⭐️3.5⭐️ WOAH! This was a major page turner. The writing was so well done, the chapters were the perfect length, and the concept was interesting. I wish there was more world-building & the characters were given more of a backstory. Still loved this though! Abd the cliffhanger at the end?!?!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
August 12, 2025
Ok so I’m totally in love with Elyse. She is hardcore and totally fantastic! I love an FMC who is powerful, can fight, banter and throw down with the best of them! There are many scenes which prove how amazing she is that I won’t spoil for you but the quote ‘ALL women are better than you… 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Killian is more straightlaced. He is a lieutenant in the King’s guard, investigating the murder of the king. He starts off despising magic but slowly changes his mind when it comes to Elyse! Their slow burn was 🔥🔥🔥🔥. I loved their banter most of all - all the quips and snarky comments made me howl with laughter!
Samantha’s worldbuilding is wondrous, I love how she has designed a small world which gradually expands as we read… the mystery, the investigation, the hilarious side characters (Hi Sera and Manny!), I loved it all!
The ending 😭😭 I am UNWELL. Samantha how could you do this to us?! I am so thankful for the arc but oh my goodness. That cliffhanger…..
Killian is more straightlaced. He is a lieutenant in the King’s guard, investigating the murder of the king. He starts off despising magic but slowly changes his mind when it comes to Elyse! Their slow burn was 🔥🔥🔥🔥. I loved their banter most of all - all the quips and snarky comments made me howl with laughter!
Samantha’s worldbuilding is wondrous, I love how she has designed a small world which gradually expands as we read… the mystery, the investigation, the hilarious side characters (Hi Sera and Manny!), I loved it all!
The ending 😭😭 I am UNWELL. Samantha how could you do this to us?! I am so thankful for the arc but oh my goodness. That cliffhanger…..
April 22, 2023
I loved every part of this book, there was never a dull moment. Elyse is just a badass FMC and Killian ughh he’s perfect. The ending tho!!!!! Ughhh I need the second book 😫. Tropes: enemies to lover, slow burn , spice, dual pov! I think I loved that the most to get his pov on things.
April 24, 2023
YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK RIGHT NOW.
September 11, 2023
With a clever witchy FMC, a murder mystery, a dash of spice, and twists (that reveal!) this is a perfect autumn read.
May 3, 2023
I would like to thank the author for the e-ARC opportunity in exchange for an honest review of the book.
I absolutely loved all the witchy detective vibes this all gave. I thoroughly enjoyed the gradual world building, the budding romance between our MCs and the mystery behind the death of the King. I was absolutely invested from start to finish and I definitely let out plenty of gasps throughout my reading journey. Elyse's constant use of magic that showed her as a powerful witch was so much fun to read about, to the point where I wish that I had those same powers. Imagine how convenient life could be!!! Furthermore, the murder mystery aspect was handled so well and the readers were definitely taken for quite the ride.
Elyse is such a complete badass and dare I might say that she might be one of my fav FMCs I have ever read about. She is intelligent, ruthless, yet kind, and most importantly she is a survivor. Not to mention that she is such an incredible witch that she has grown men shaking in their boots with her demeanor but also magical skill . I loved her character from the very first chapter until the last. I really wanted to give her a hug (especially towards the end).
Killian was so uptight and slightly grumpy at first but we definitely see him soften with Elyse. His backstory was so sad and the trauma stemming from that really shaped who he is. He takes his role as Lieutenant to the Royal Guard very seriously and is honorable in so many ways, which serves as a nice contrast to Elyse. I think my favorite version of him though was when he was with Elyse. He teases, laughs, and shelves all that he has to burden. Killian is adorable when he is so obviously in love. However.......
I really loved the romantic development that we got to see between the two MCs. They were so at odds with each other from the get go, but then we see a gradual raise in intensity between them. I was here for every bit of it. They tend to be rough and strong to the rest of the world, but with each other they were so tender. Things were so wholesome between them and I had a permanent grin on my face.
As for the side characters, I really loved Manny + Mama Southwick as well as Privya. They all added a touch of warmth and humor in the story and I cannot wait to get to see more of them in the next book. Manny especially is a hilarious little shit and I think he is a great friend to both MCs. The way that our main antagonists is being slowly developed was absolutely fascinating and it kept me on the edge of favorite reading chair ( I may have fallen a couple of times :)).
The ending was most definitely a cliffhanger and I was anxious for the last like 5 chapters. The way that things left off, made me so sad that I had to wait for the next book. I am beyond excited to see the twists and turns the author has in store for us. I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS AND I NEED ANSWERS!!!! Above all else though, I just want to see my Elyse happy !!! I have faith that the author will take us for a ride and I am here for it. In summary, I had a fantastic time with this and would definitely recommend to fans of fantasy mysteries.
I absolutely loved all the witchy detective vibes this all gave. I thoroughly enjoyed the gradual world building, the budding romance between our MCs and the mystery behind the death of the King. I was absolutely invested from start to finish and I definitely let out plenty of gasps throughout my reading journey. Elyse's constant use of magic that showed her as a powerful witch was so much fun to read about, to the point where I wish that I had those same powers. Imagine how convenient life could be!!! Furthermore, the murder mystery aspect was handled so well and the readers were definitely taken for quite the ride.
Elyse is such a complete badass and dare I might say that she might be one of my fav FMCs I have ever read about. She is intelligent, ruthless, yet kind, and most importantly she is a survivor. Not to mention that she is such an incredible witch that she has grown men shaking in their boots with her demeanor but also magical skill . I loved her character from the very first chapter until the last. I really wanted to give her a hug (especially towards the end).
Killian was so uptight and slightly grumpy at first but we definitely see him soften with Elyse. His backstory was so sad and the trauma stemming from that really shaped who he is. He takes his role as Lieutenant to the Royal Guard very seriously and is honorable in so many ways, which serves as a nice contrast to Elyse. I think my favorite version of him though was when he was with Elyse. He teases, laughs, and shelves all that he has to burden. Killian is adorable when he is so obviously in love. However.......
I really loved the romantic development that we got to see between the two MCs. They were so at odds with each other from the get go, but then we see a gradual raise in intensity between them. I was here for every bit of it. They tend to be rough and strong to the rest of the world, but with each other they were so tender. Things were so wholesome between them and I had a permanent grin on my face.
As for the side characters, I really loved Manny + Mama Southwick as well as Privya. They all added a touch of warmth and humor in the story and I cannot wait to get to see more of them in the next book. Manny especially is a hilarious little shit and I think he is a great friend to both MCs. The way that our main antagonists is being slowly developed was absolutely fascinating and it kept me on the edge of favorite reading chair ( I may have fallen a couple of times :)).
The ending was most definitely a cliffhanger and I was anxious for the last like 5 chapters. The way that things left off, made me so sad that I had to wait for the next book. I am beyond excited to see the twists and turns the author has in store for us. I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS AND I NEED ANSWERS!!!! Above all else though, I just want to see my Elyse happy !!! I have faith that the author will take us for a ride and I am here for it. In summary, I had a fantastic time with this and would definitely recommend to fans of fantasy mysteries.
April 12, 2023
ARC reader here 🙋♀️
Let me just start by saying this is the first fantasy book I’ve read in a while that actually made me want to get back into the genre. It was so readable like honestly I completely blocked out all the family arguments happening over the Easter weekend by just sinking into the plot.
And what a story it was…
Witchcraft, murders and mystery. The dual POV just made all the twists so much better, the suspense from watching one character make their move and then witnessing the realisation dawning later in the actions of the other. It was just… ahhhh I so badly want to just scream about all the plot twists but I don’t want to give anything away so please go read this book so I can get all hyped about it with you and omg book 2 when is it I need it now!
*deep breaths* ok continuing…
… Elyse just radiates bad bitch energy, she both terrifies and inspires me. I’m leaning more towards terrified but I love that about her. She’s not terrifying for the sake of it she’s deliberate with her choices and I’m intrigued to see which direction she’ll take her and her powers after that ending. Killian well he’s a gentleman, and I mean that in every sense he is the standard I will now be holding all men to, but he’s also just a little broken and I can see him becoming stronger for it which I can’t wait to see. Plus I saw those smarts he was trying to hide bring him to poker night and he’d be rolling in cash by the end of it. Manny and Sera have my heart, Manny especially is just so cheeky I want to be his friend idk what it is about supportive, sweet side characters but it honestly makes the book for me.
I should probably mention the romance. It was sizzling, a slow burn with plenty of tension but I was rooting for it to work out. Elyse and Killian compliment each other so well she’s the blade to his shield, they don’t need each other but they work so much better together.
I absolutely cant wait for book 2. I have a feeling there’s a lot more we haven’t seen yet.
Let me just start by saying this is the first fantasy book I’ve read in a while that actually made me want to get back into the genre. It was so readable like honestly I completely blocked out all the family arguments happening over the Easter weekend by just sinking into the plot.
And what a story it was…
Witchcraft, murders and mystery. The dual POV just made all the twists so much better, the suspense from watching one character make their move and then witnessing the realisation dawning later in the actions of the other. It was just… ahhhh I so badly want to just scream about all the plot twists but I don’t want to give anything away so please go read this book so I can get all hyped about it with you and omg book 2 when is it I need it now!
*deep breaths* ok continuing…
… Elyse just radiates bad bitch energy, she both terrifies and inspires me. I’m leaning more towards terrified but I love that about her. She’s not terrifying for the sake of it she’s deliberate with her choices and I’m intrigued to see which direction she’ll take her and her powers after that ending. Killian well he’s a gentleman, and I mean that in every sense he is the standard I will now be holding all men to, but he’s also just a little broken and I can see him becoming stronger for it which I can’t wait to see. Plus I saw those smarts he was trying to hide bring him to poker night and he’d be rolling in cash by the end of it. Manny and Sera have my heart, Manny especially is just so cheeky I want to be his friend idk what it is about supportive, sweet side characters but it honestly makes the book for me.
I should probably mention the romance. It was sizzling, a slow burn with plenty of tension but I was rooting for it to work out. Elyse and Killian compliment each other so well she’s the blade to his shield, they don’t need each other but they work so much better together.
I absolutely cant wait for book 2. I have a feeling there’s a lot more we haven’t seen yet.
June 19, 2024
Take a step back, yall. This isn't enemies to lovers. This was an ATTEMPT and one that failed. Don't tell me that shit and have ur mcs making out halfway through the book. Bye 🙄
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