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Forsaken by the Gods

Of Spirit & Hope

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THAEIA

It's too dangerous to leave the island.

On her deathbed, my foster mother left me with a clue and a cryptic message about my past. Now she’s gone, and I have to know...who am I? What am I?
In a land where everyone is gifted with magic at the age of twelve, the gods cursed me to live without. Without power. Without purpose. There is an invisible void around me that temporarily swallows the magic of anyone who gets too close. The island is small and sheltered, but even here I encounter fear, disgust, even hate. After my magic failed to manifest, not even my best friend stood by my side. Nor turned on me, terrified my void would take away his magic forever. It hurts, but I understand. Nor loves his magic. I would give almost anything to be like everyone else, but I’ve resigned myself to my cursed existence, to my loneliness.
No more. I need to know who I am.

I just hope the answers don’t get me killed.

NOR

Thaeia is leaving the island.

I threw her away. I broke us thinking it was the only way to save myself. My magic is my purpose, my reason for living, and the thought of her void stealing my power forever makes me sick. But a harsh reprimand from an old flame makes me realize I can’t let Thaeia go without at least trying to put us back together. I don’t deserve a second chance to be a friend to her, but I can’t let Thaeia face those who will fear her curse, hate her void, and come after her to eliminate the threat to their magic. I can't leave her to face this alone.
I am leaving to compete in the magic games, so I’ll use that as an excuse to travel with her, look after her, protect her. I don’t know what she’s searching for, and I know she is strong and capable, but she is one magicless woman against a powerful world.

I’ll stand with Thaeia even at the cost of my magic or my life.

Of Spirit & Hope is book one in an adult high fantasy trilogy with magic, gods, curses, secrets, plots, found family, second chances, romance, and loads of spice.

440 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 18, 2023

32 people are currently reading
420 people want to read

About the author

T.B. Wiese

13 books93 followers
T. B. Wiese is a military spouse, dog mom, photographer, Disney nerd, and lover of spicy fantasy. She loves animals (She grew up with dogs and working with horses, including working at the Tri-Circle D Ranch at Disney World), so don’t be surprised when you find yourself reading lovable animal characters in her novels.

She has loved reading since she was little, and her tbr list is embarrassingly long, but she’s always looking to add more, so if you have a spicy fantasy recommendation, pass it along.

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,054 reviews
July 8, 2023
4.5 WHAT WAS THIS BOOK. Holy wow. The ending too?? Thaiea’s power is cool to me and learning how to use it. Plus getting a second chance friendship/relationship trope with Nor? Ready for the next book!
Profile Image for Maria Fatma.
416 reviews4 followers
August 9, 2023
This was a solid read. I wasn't too sure in the beginning because I HATED Nor but as the story continued he grew on me. Thaeia was the star of the show for me. She's such a freaking badass and I was always rooting for her. I will be continuing on with the series hopefully soon.
Profile Image for Sameeksha.
156 reviews9 followers
April 20, 2023
Have you ever picked up a book when you were in a reading slump and been so absorbed in it that you finished it in one sitting? Well, in this book, that's what happened to me. And I kind of anticipated it. I've now read five books by the author, and I've adored each and every one of them.
Summary
We are introduced to the world, which is mostly divided into five sections and one island. In this world, everyone has power, and when children reach the age of twelve, they are blessed with powers by God. Thaeia and Nor are planning to explore the world together with their powers. It's Thaeia's twelfth birthday tomorrow, and Nor has already received his power a few months back. Now all that is left to do is wait and see.

Thaeia is anxious and eager for the ceremony, but when her ability doesn't manifest at the stroke of midnight on her twelfth birthday, her society—including her best friend, Nor—brands her as a curse. In addition to not having power, she found that she has the ability to sap the power of others if they step near her; they only get their powers back when they are away. The Void, is what they have started to call her.

Nor, Thaeia's best friend, abandoned her, called her names, and teased her endlessly. But when he discovered that Thaeia had planned to leave the island for some unknown reason, he realized that he could not let her go.

Plot, world-building, and magic system: Since this is the first book in the series, we are given an introduction to the world and its magic in addition to receiving the map. The magic here was wonderful. I loved the magic here. The magic system in this world is kind of unique; people have different kinds of powers, such as the ability to manipulate the threads of the fabric they are touching, the ability to shine brilliantly, the ability to behave like a siren, etc. I had so much fun discovering everyone's power.

Writing: It is written beautifully; the words flow evenly, and the pacing is maintained throughout. We have two points of view, one from Thaeia and another from Nor. I loved both of their voices, sometimes preferring Thaeia over Nor, other times vice versa.

Characters: All of the characters were great, and many of them made my list of favorites, but I also found myself attempting to decipher their motivations and self-interests. And I believe the author did this on purpose.

Relationships and spice: This is the most amazing part of the book. In her characters, the author has crafted deep emotions that result in equally complicated and healthy relationships. And the romance is on another level; I was shipping the characters throughout and was wishing to read their scenes together again and again. The spice in this book will likely appeal to readers who prefer their books spicy, but non-spice readers won't find anything repulsive about it.

I received an ARC of this book for an honest opinion.
Profile Image for ꒰ঌAlejandra໒꒱ ♥️.
153 reviews27 followers
April 27, 2023
Why does it always end at the best part?? I was very excited then wham, wait for book 2. I ended up loving this book way more than I originally thought I would. I love when a book surprises me. The characters are great, flaws and all. The FMC got no action but the MMC does. This is a spicy epic fantasy with a romance subplot. The only reason this wasn’t a six star read for me was because it ended and left me hanging. Of Spirit & Hope is the first book in the Forsaken by the Gods series. Book 2 comes out Summer of 2023 and I can’t wait!

Spice level (1-5): 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Kink level (1-3): ⛓️ MM, sword crossing, butt stuff, MAGIC butt stuff

On their twelfth birthday, every child is given a gift from the Gods. A magic power. When Thaeia turned twelve everyone was shocked her didn’t get a mark. The Gods didn’t bless her with magic, they quickly started to fear her thinking she’d steal their magic if they got too close. When Thaeia’s foster mother dies, she wants to find out more about her powers. But she’ll need to get off the island she’s called home to do it.

I would recommend Of Spirit & Hope to everyone! If you love high fantasy, spice, sword crossing, found family, magic, secret origins, adventure, tournaments, curses, Gods, secrets, romance, spice, strong FMC, overcoming childhood trauma, unique special powers, second chances you’ll love Of Spirit & Hope. This book does contain hot male on male action, magic used in creative ways, butt stuff, ptsd/childhood trauma, bullying, etc. For the readers that love mysteries and adventure this one if for you!

Warning: Reading Of Spirit & Hope may make you leave your island. May make you want to sign up for a tournament. May make remember to always bring headphones. May make you remember that’s what towels are for. Read responsibly.

*I received an Advance Reader Copy for free and I am leaving an honest review of my own volition. All thoughts are my own.*
Profile Image for Noelle Pierce.
Author 7 books32 followers
December 10, 2025
Where to start? This wasn't what I was expecting at all. I was recommended this book as a romance, and usually when you have dual POV, it's between the FMC and MMC. Who fall in love with each other. That is not how this book works. Once I figured out that the two POV characters were not the love interests, I debated whether to keep reading. I'm glad I did.

The beginning, especially Nor's character, pissed me off, but it was supposed to, so the author did their job. My heart broke for Theia many times in the first few chapters, and tears flowed. That is a testament to the author's writing. I was engaged in Theia's chapters from the beginning.

Another thing I am not used to in romance is the very fluid sexuality of everyone. This book is spicy, but other than one character outright saying he has a preference, the characters are open to sex with anyone (not in a "so horny I gotta sleep with everyone way, but more in that they're open to relationships with others with complete disregard for gender). It was pleasantly surprising, though it did further muddle my confusion on whether you could call it a romance (re: the genre). The LGBTQIA+ community was well represented, so far as I'm concerned.

While it's intended for an "adult" audience, and the characters were in their late 20s (mostly), the MCs behaved and spoke more YAish, to me. That might be a result of their trauma and upbringing, but it did pull me out of the story a couple of times.

Finally, I would classify this as a fantasy with romantic elements, which may have been what the author always intended, but as I was told it was a "fantasy romance" (which IS different bc the romance genre has very specific requirements to be included), I put it here in case others are also confused.

TL;dr - It's a good story and intriguing enough for me to keep reading. There is romance, but not between the two POV characters. It is a very spicy, fluidly sexual book with a good representation of LGBTQIA+.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
833 reviews32 followers
April 17, 2023
Of Spirit and Hope by T.B Wiese is the first book I’ve ever read by this author. When I read the book description I was instantly captivated by what I thought was going to be such a unique take on magic. I’m very happy and excited to say this surpassed my expectations! (🪄🪄)

In this world everyone on their 12th birthday is given a gift by the Gods. But those who don’t, are considered cursed…unworthy. The main characters are Thaeia and Nor… I seriously loved reading their individual personalities clash or mold together if you will. Having the pair go from friends to possible enemies, to maybe more… (You know what I’m going to say here if you follow my reviews, ready? 😂 Go, read the book! 📖📖🎇🎇)

This is book one in the series, Forsaken by the Gods. I will give you one heads up, it does end on a cliff hanger. I was reading to my hearts content then bam… no more book!!! (🧐🧐) I was hoping I turned my pages too fast on my kindle and skipped some… that was not the case. I sat on my couch, wanting more!!! How? Why? Now I have to “ patiently” wait for the next book and not stalk T.B Wiese’s social media for any crumbs of information on the next book. (Who are we kidding, I totally am! 😂🤣😂🤣) But on a serious note the way this book is done gives interesting twists to magic, the characters are so well done you find yourself invested in their journey and I love ❤️ the way the world is written!!!

Final rating: 5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Interesting magic: 5 out of 5 🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄
Love for characters: 5 out of 5 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
*Remember I rate books on how much I like what I read, how the book made ME feel. 🌺🌸
Profile Image for Shandi.
225 reviews
April 11, 2023
On their 12th birthday people are gifted with magic from the Gods. Nor has received his magic and is excited for his best friend Thaeia to get hers. But the night of her ceremony nothing happens. No magic and she later learns she creates a void surrounding her where no magic works. The islanders of Oxtara declare her as cursed. After that, all Thaeia has is her foster mother Saph, who raises her and trains her. When Saph dies Thaeia, now 28, decides to leave the island with clues Seph leaves her to try to find answers as to who she really is. Nor is also leaving the island to travel to the Games, which happen every five years. So he invites himself along Thaeia to travel together. He wants to protect her but deep down he just wants his friend back.

Every book I have read by T.B. Wiese she has done an amazing job creating compelling characters and worlds and this book was no exception. The magic system was incredible. Some characters displayed magics I would never have imagined before. And the relationship with Thaeia and Nor is deep and complex and a joy to read. It did feel like the story ended so quick. I didn't even realize I was on the last chapter until it just ended. With a cliffhanger. Ugh. Definitely can't wait for the next book.

Rating 4 stars
*I received a review copy from the author for my voluntary and honest review.
Profile Image for Sarah Noelle .
387 reviews23 followers
June 17, 2024
I don’t think I’ve ever had a book for my ‘ends with a bang’ bookshelf that hit the theme so perfectly.

I wasn’t sure about this one at first. I met the author at an event and bought all three of the books in the series and regretted it pretty quickly. I told myself to keep reading because I’d already bought them, and I’m glad I did. Nor is the WORST for more than half the book. And Thaeia has a lot more to live for than I would have. No magic? No friends? Hated by everyone I know? Yeah I’d have jumped right off a cliff. Thank goodness she had Saph, who trained her to be a badass in her own right, and a fighter who doesn’t need to rely on magic to kick butt.

Not much happens in this book, realistically, but what does happen keeps you interested. I love the relationships that are forming and healing and I LOVE Kier. Thank god I don’t have to wait for another book after that explosive cliffhanger ;)
Profile Image for Bean .
291 reviews33 followers
April 17, 2023
I am so glad I came across T.B. on tiktok so I could be an ARC reader for this one!

When I saw this was an Anime inspired adult fantasy with such a beautiful cover, I was intrigued. While I do not watch a lot of anime myself, a lot of my tiktok followers have mentioned that they do (as well as reading manga), so I wanted to read this for me and for them. I really think they'll love this! I binged this over the weekend and cannot wait for book two.

This is book one of a new adult fantasy trilogy with magic/magical creatures, excellent world-building, MM/FM romance, spice 🌶, secrets/betrayals, & lovable and well-developed characters.

Happy Release Day Eve and TYSM for letting me be an ARC reader for this! 💚 (I will tag you when I put it in one of my weekly tiktok book giveaways!)
5 reviews
April 18, 2023
Happy release day to this book!! Thank you to the author for giving me an ARC. This is my opinion of the book.

It's been awhile since a book gripped me like this. The characters were all very mature for their age, which was surprising and well received because most characters already feel like a prototype and this was something fresh.

The writing was beautiful, the way of storytelling made you read word after word after word. It's the first book I read of this author but I'm already invested in this world and characters. Careful with the ending because it will leave you screaming, and all of the events, the betrayals, characters bonding and just enough spice. Chef kiss.

This book was everything I could ask for and I can't wait to read the next one, because it's a trilogy.
Profile Image for Katnip.
179 reviews
April 4, 2023
I need this book on my shelf like…today. I love her writing. She has amazing characters and is great at world building. She captured my attention from the start and I was shock and sad when the story ended on a cliff hanger. Not because it ended on a cliff hanger, but because it ended!! I wanted more! I want to know what happens next! I need to know what happens!!

There is magic, magic games, fantastic creatures, secrets, and betrayals. This a MM romance brewing, a MF potential romance starting and spice. You’re going to want to read this book!
Profile Image for Main Street Book Club.
172 reviews2 followers
January 1, 2024
The perfect book does not exi....

*gulp*

(angelic music plays)

Of Spirit and Hope has every single element you need in an adult fantasy book!!! An incredible magic system, exciting and sinuous character building, ...and allllll the sexiness....
Reading is my favorite hobby, and books like this one remind me why. It was such a blast to read, I can't wait to pick up the 2nd in the series!
Profile Image for Jess Elizabeth .
302 reviews7 followers
April 17, 2023
Wow what a well thought out world! I really enjoyed the detailing of powers, and the world building itself.

I'm hoping for more from Keir and Thaeia!

Be prepared this ends on a cliffhanger and you will NEED book 2! Can't wait! 😍
Profile Image for Megan M.
40 reviews
July 6, 2023
I loved this story. The middle of the book was a little slow in terms of action, but character development was well thought out and built up.

It does end on a cliff hanger so be prepared to jump right into book 2!
Profile Image for Ashley Lauffer.
55 reviews
November 12, 2025
Immediately onto the second, I just know this series is going to be SO GOOD.

The middle was a like slow, but honestly the book needed that to really feel the connection with the characters. I’m going to love Keir, I just know it.
Profile Image for Zennie Haynes.
5 reviews
May 8, 2023
Out of all the books I've read this year, this one definitely takes the cake as my favorite.
Profile Image for KaleDragon.
84 reviews7 followers
July 7, 2023
Epic cliffhanger

Something that started as a beautiful story of two friends trying to reconnect. It stops at a moment of epic bloody mayhem. It is so worth the read.
Profile Image for Haley Morse.
6 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2023
Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! But in the best ways ever! Buckle in and hold on tight.
5 reviews
September 3, 2023
A must read! T.B.Wiese has created an fantastic world with amazing characters! You won't want to put the book down!
6 reviews
January 26, 2024
This is such a silly book and I’m having a hard time to read, why is Thaeia blaming herself for Nor cruelty and bullying.

I don’t care if Nor father used his magic on him, Thaeia doesn’t shoulder his trauma and father issues when she’s already going through so much as a VOID.
Profile Image for M.
99 reviews
May 6, 2023
I need more people to read this book 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
World filled with magic wielders (each characters has a different type of magic), except our FMC😱.
They journey through the country to get to The Games—a magic tournament.
Book filled with action and spice (MM & MF), unique creatures, found family and character growth.
Profile Image for Erica G..
262 reviews8 followers
June 11, 2023
So excited to be starting a new fantasy series by the amazing T.B. Wiese! Our main characters are friends to enemies to....???
The Magic System in this book is, Epic! I loved learning about all the powers and their possibilities!
I am so invested in this world, I find myself daydreaming about what might come next for Thaeia and Nor!
Profile Image for Bobby L.
198 reviews5 followers
July 30, 2023
This book omg, I definitely be rereading this book all over again
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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