What do you think?
Rate this book
The First Muse
Lady Jain Areyas is too young to be a widow. But after the death of her husband, the sacred blood in her veins makes her a desirable match for the King of Sorrows. Jain must enter into an arranged marriage with the deranged King to ensure her own protection, despite the difference in their age and despite the secrets she hides. If Jain wants to survive, happiness must war against love. Read all the standalones from the First Collection in any order.
Enter the world of this fantasy romance, filled with plot twists, drama, and action. Hearts will be broken and mended again. Age gap and arranged marriage included. “F-for the…bath?” “Mm.” She blushed beautifully. I walked away to drain the basin and fill it again, but my blood was too hot in my veins. Slow down. Simply slow down. You cannot do this, Tohmas. You cannot…take this young Breath. You cannot lay her out on that bed and…. I heated the water, focusing on the boiling and bubbling. And trying to distract myself from the way color spread along Jain’s cheeks when I told her to undress. Isdamnit. Put your clothes on, Tohmas. Isdamtnit, stop her from taking hers off. Now. I hurried back out of the wash room to find Jain already undressed, her gown still clutched to her. It was the second time I’d found her like that. And I knew there were many things between us. But that lacy gown was not going to be one of them. I went to her. And with hardly a tug, the dress was out of her hands. The firelight shone against her, lighting the smooth skin of her belly. I traced the path from her lips to her navel, and she inhaled. “With your…permission?” “Is this still about…my bath?” “No.” “Then yes.” “You’re certain, Jain?” She brought a hand to my chest, watching my skin itself prickle as I reacted to her touch. Then, she leaned into me and kissed where she had touched, her lips lingering until I had no choice but to take her backwards and onto the bed. Forehead to forehead, I kissed her mouth, exploring the softness of it, my heart racing ahead at the way her lips parted for me. You are taking advantage, Tohmas. But I wanted to. Not to take advantage of the Breath I’d married, but to feel something that was not pain or guilt or dread or regret. To bury those feelings for a moment or ten. To be swallowed only in the sensation of her body beneath mine. I brought my mouth down to her throat and lower. Lower and lower still, until she cried out with surprise, her fingers gripping my hair. “What are you—?” ---
Meet Jain and Tohmas and follow them on their quest for love through heartache.
Enter the world of this fantasy romance, filled with plot twists, drama, and action. Hearts will be broken and mended again. Age gap and arranged marriage included. “F-for the…bath?” “Mm.” She blushed beautifully. I walked away to drain the basin and fill it again, but my blood was too hot in my veins. Slow down. Simply slow down. You cannot do this, Tohmas. You cannot…take this young Breath. You cannot lay her out on that bed and…. I heated the water, focusing on the boiling and bubbling. And trying to distract myself from the way color spread along Jain’s cheeks when I told her to undress. Isdamnit. Put your clothes on, Tohmas. Isdamtnit, stop her from taking hers off. Now. I hurried back out of the wash room to find Jain already undressed, her gown still clutched to her. It was the second time I’d found her like that. And I knew there were many things between us. But that lacy gown was not going to be one of them. I went to her. And with hardly a tug, the dress was out of her hands. The firelight shone against her, lighting the smooth skin of her belly. I traced the path from her lips to her navel, and she inhaled. “With your…permission?” “Is this still about…my bath?” “No.” “Then yes.” “You’re certain, Jain?” She brought a hand to my chest, watching my skin itself prickle as I reacted to her touch. Then, she leaned into me and kissed where she had touched, her lips lingering until I had no choice but to take her backwards and onto the bed. Forehead to forehead, I kissed her mouth, exploring the softness of it, my heart racing ahead at the way her lips parted for me. You are taking advantage, Tohmas. But I wanted to. Not to take advantage of the Breath I’d married, but to feel something that was not pain or guilt or dread or regret. To bury those feelings for a moment or ten. To be swallowed only in the sensation of her body beneath mine. I brought my mouth down to her throat and lower. Lower and lower still, until she cried out with surprise, her fingers gripping my hair. “What are you—?” ---
Meet Jain and Tohmas and follow them on their quest for love through heartache.
Kindle Edition
Published April 29, 2023
88 people are currently reading
886 people want to read
About the author
Teshelle Combs
58 books568 followersTeshelle Combs is the award-winning author of books like The Underglow and the First Collection.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).
Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.
Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
December 27, 2023
4.25/5
Would have been perfect if I understood the last 15% of this book, and the ending wasn't so rushed.
Would have been perfect if I understood the last 15% of this book, and the ending wasn't so rushed.
August 18, 2023
Pros:
The writing is good, especially if you grew up on old-school fantasy novels with their formal language. Jain is sympathetic and likable, and so is Tohmas. The plot is interesting and there's a little spice, maybe one 🌶️. J + T have a convincing love story with ups and downs that keep tension throughout. The world-building is unique and explained enough that I wasn't confused.
Cons:
The dialogue is somewhat stilted and formal, which makes characters feel robotic sometimes. The story had me hooked until about 80% of the way through, and then the ending felt rushed. A bunch of important stuff happened off the page that left me confused and wishing I could have seen those scenes instead of reading about the aftermath. The book would have benefited from developmental edits.
Overall, a good and entertaining read.
The writing is good, especially if you grew up on old-school fantasy novels with their formal language. Jain is sympathetic and likable, and so is Tohmas. The plot is interesting and there's a little spice, maybe one 🌶️. J + T have a convincing love story with ups and downs that keep tension throughout. The world-building is unique and explained enough that I wasn't confused.
Cons:
The dialogue is somewhat stilted and formal, which makes characters feel robotic sometimes. The story had me hooked until about 80% of the way through, and then the ending felt rushed. A bunch of important stuff happened off the page that left me confused and wishing I could have seen those scenes instead of reading about the aftermath. The book would have benefited from developmental edits.
Overall, a good and entertaining read.
February 20, 2024
I downloaded this book as part of stuff your Kindle day, and followed the 4 and 5 star reviews. It just didn't hit the mark for me.
The story premise sounds amazing. Lady Jain is a Breath. (What is that you may ask? Well after completing the entire book, I actually couldn't tell you in any depth. I know she has some form of power over truth, but it is never fleshed out.) Jain's abusive and cruel husband has just died and her belittling family berate her for not being a better breath. She is offered marriage from a neighbouring older king, and accepts the offer as a way out.
Much of the story is told in pages and pages of pure dialogue which is often repetitive or cryptic. POV can change over episodes (Kindle Vella style), but there is no orientation as to whose POV you are now in. Meaning you have to read to figure that out before taking the story in. There is very little action even with apparent clashes with multiple neighbouring kingdoms over the space of only a couple of days.
The story jumps from one major event to the next with little to no explanation and there was little in the way of relationship building, they just happen to fall deeply and madly in love. The side characters, while lovable, seemed almost comical in parts which took away from the storyline.
These are my opinions only but I found this severely lacking and won't be reading any others in the series.
The story premise sounds amazing. Lady Jain is a Breath. (What is that you may ask? Well after completing the entire book, I actually couldn't tell you in any depth. I know she has some form of power over truth, but it is never fleshed out.) Jain's abusive and cruel husband has just died and her belittling family berate her for not being a better breath. She is offered marriage from a neighbouring older king, and accepts the offer as a way out.
Much of the story is told in pages and pages of pure dialogue which is often repetitive or cryptic. POV can change over episodes (Kindle Vella style), but there is no orientation as to whose POV you are now in. Meaning you have to read to figure that out before taking the story in. There is very little action even with apparent clashes with multiple neighbouring kingdoms over the space of only a couple of days.
The story jumps from one major event to the next with little to no explanation and there was little in the way of relationship building, they just happen to fall deeply and madly in love. The side characters, while lovable, seemed almost comical in parts which took away from the storyline.
These are my opinions only but I found this severely lacking and won't be reading any others in the series.
October 14, 2023
Thank you to TC for providing me with an eARC of this book!
My favorite part of this story was the banter. The dialogue was lively and humorous, which really drew me into the story. I am not usually one for this type of retelling, but I found it to be well done and I liked the creativity behind TC’s world building. The concepts were engaging and I liked the characters (especially the side characters! They added a lot to the story for me.) All in all, a fun read. I felt like I was reading a script which made it really fast to get through between college assignments.
My only big grievances would be that the spice was kind of awkward. I’m not one for spice to begin with, but the vague rushed scenes made it seem odd. I would have preferred for there to either be no spice and just eluding to what happened, or for the author to embrace the concept. It felt a little strange having the scenes the way they were. And my other issue was that some of the dialogue could feel stiff, such as “do not” and “I am” instead of saying “don’t” and “I’m” where they would fit naturally.
But on another note, Jain was a likable main character as she genuinely cared for those around her. Though I felt Tohmas was mostly written to be the opposite of Jain’s first husband, and less of an individual. I did also find some things confusing, such as a character saying they will not do something only to immediately do it anyways. It felt a bit less organic than it could have been, had some wrestling with themselves been included before the decision was made.
In the end, 3 ⭐️ because it was a bit of fun entertainment at the start of the semester. I am pleased to have been able to be an ARC reader and I wish TC all the best with future projects and with the promotion of this particular latest novel. 💛
My favorite part of this story was the banter. The dialogue was lively and humorous, which really drew me into the story. I am not usually one for this type of retelling, but I found it to be well done and I liked the creativity behind TC’s world building. The concepts were engaging and I liked the characters (especially the side characters! They added a lot to the story for me.) All in all, a fun read. I felt like I was reading a script which made it really fast to get through between college assignments.
My only big grievances would be that the spice was kind of awkward. I’m not one for spice to begin with, but the vague rushed scenes made it seem odd. I would have preferred for there to either be no spice and just eluding to what happened, or for the author to embrace the concept. It felt a little strange having the scenes the way they were. And my other issue was that some of the dialogue could feel stiff, such as “do not” and “I am” instead of saying “don’t” and “I’m” where they would fit naturally.
But on another note, Jain was a likable main character as she genuinely cared for those around her. Though I felt Tohmas was mostly written to be the opposite of Jain’s first husband, and less of an individual. I did also find some things confusing, such as a character saying they will not do something only to immediately do it anyways. It felt a bit less organic than it could have been, had some wrestling with themselves been included before the decision was made.
In the end, 3 ⭐️ because it was a bit of fun entertainment at the start of the semester. I am pleased to have been able to be an ARC reader and I wish TC all the best with future projects and with the promotion of this particular latest novel. 💛
Read
August 15, 2023 full review on my site
Special thanks to Tess Combs for the ARC of this book & allowing me into your amazing community ❤️
Lady Jain Areyas has been widowed & left with nothing but she is blessed with holy blood. Soon after the death of her husband, she's sought after by the King of Weil, a land unknown to her. It's a match, the King of Sorrows Tohmas is quickly married to Jain to guarantee the safety of herself & her family. Now if Jain wants to survive she must wage a war with herself for happiness & love.
This is my first ARC book just as a preface, which to me has been so cool & also to be a little selfish, good practice for me. I need to be able to write some more well-rounded reviews & so here we go.
Special thanks to Tess Combs for the ARC of this book & allowing me into your amazing community ❤️
Lady Jain Areyas has been widowed & left with nothing but she is blessed with holy blood. Soon after the death of her husband, she's sought after by the King of Weil, a land unknown to her. It's a match, the King of Sorrows Tohmas is quickly married to Jain to guarantee the safety of herself & her family. Now if Jain wants to survive she must wage a war with herself for happiness & love.
This is my first ARC book just as a preface, which to me has been so cool & also to be a little selfish, good practice for me. I need to be able to write some more well-rounded reviews & so here we go.
August 22, 2023
I absolutely adore this book. Jain starts off as being shy and very cautious of her surroundings. Being able to watch her relationship with the King was incredible. They were patient with each other throughout their journey of getting to know one another. While there might not be all that much spice in the story, the level of intimacy is beautiful. Towards the end it seemed like the impossible would happen and the two would lose one another. I was satisfied with the ending but absolutely left longing for more between Tohmas and Jain. While I don't think there are any plans for more stories of the two of them, there are other stories in the First Series that I cannot wait to read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2023
✨Arc Review✨
Everything she writes literally sucks me right in! I can’t imagine how Jain feels being widowed and immediately wed right off even if by her own choice. By the end of chapter 8 I was absolutely giddy with hope that Thomas would fall for Jain. This love story will absolutely break your heart! And the ending is wild.
Everything she writes literally sucks me right in! I can’t imagine how Jain feels being widowed and immediately wed right off even if by her own choice. By the end of chapter 8 I was absolutely giddy with hope that Thomas would fall for Jain. This love story will absolutely break your heart! And the ending is wild.
August 18, 2023
ARC READ HONEST REVIEW.
The story and the plot were incredibly interesting! How ever I was not firmiliar with the kindle Vella writing/reading style and I believe it might have tripped me up! Have no fear it did not disappoint. Just a learning curve for myself! I’ll definitely read more in the future! If this is your reading style and like a “forced” marriage to lovers this is for you! A quick read.
The story and the plot were incredibly interesting! How ever I was not firmiliar with the kindle Vella writing/reading style and I believe it might have tripped me up! Have no fear it did not disappoint. Just a learning curve for myself! I’ll definitely read more in the future! If this is your reading style and like a “forced” marriage to lovers this is for you! A quick read.
August 18, 2023
I had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for this book. I literally have never finished a book so fast! The story was excellent and captivating, the characters were built and described to where some you just can’t help falling in love with. This book was absolutely amazing! I am definitely a fan of her writing and enjoyed this book tremendously, I can’t wait to read more of her books :) definitely recommend this book for an enjoyable read.
August 21, 2023
I was provided an ARC of this book. Read it in a single day.
One of my favorites from Combs so far. This is an age gap arranged marriage romance between two widows. I loved how relatable and grounded the two characters felt. The FMC falls for the MC first as he is contending with his grief from a prior marriage. As they form a friendship they begin to help one another through grief and trauma. All of those factors combined made this romance feel much more mature than others I've read.
One of my favorites from Combs so far. This is an age gap arranged marriage romance between two widows. I loved how relatable and grounded the two characters felt. The FMC falls for the MC first as he is contending with his grief from a prior marriage. As they form a friendship they begin to help one another through grief and trauma. All of those factors combined made this romance feel much more mature than others I've read.
April 27, 2025
Another captivating installment in the First Collection! And potentially my favorite to date! I just loved Jain and Tohmas’s relationship, and the way he grew through it! I just wish there were more to this particular story!
5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
5/5⭐️
3/5🌶️
August 19, 2023
Left a little speechless. I could not predict the book not one bit. It was fast paced and action packed and Jane is such a strong character! I loved the role that tohmas played, loved how he progressed through the book. Teshelle blows me away again!
August 27, 2023
FIRST OF ALL: I had absolutely no idea that there were 6 more books that I should have read first. But, I got an ARC and was asked if I wouldn't mind honestly reviewing it in exchange for it. I had absolutely no problem with this, I was even excited to be able to read it. Then I started it and that's when complete and utter confusion started. PLEASE read the other books first. I was literally confused "the whole book". That being said, it was a good book had many great points, but most things confused me one way or another.
The book starts with the main female character (Jain) at her husband's funeral(or what the equivalent would be called in this land). She is asked to become another man's wife and she will then be called the High Queen. Forgot to mention, she is something called a breath??? again, this was one of the things not understood fully by me. The Author gave definitions, but many times I felt that there should have been more given about EVERYTHING. For instance, I'm pretty sure a day is a "turn" and a year is a "circle," but there was never anything certain given about what they stood for. Maybe just a glossary of definitions for things, someone may not understand coming into the books like myself.
The story was actually really good. It kept the whole book going for me. I put it down once and that was just so I could use a break. The main male character (Tohmas) was by far my favorite. He started as a grumpy "old" king(not sure how much older he actually was from her because again, nothing was defined completely) who didn't want anything to do with anyone, but it turns out, he was just a lonely grieving king who didn't want to let his deceased wife down, by forgetting her. I mean what more could a replacement wife want? JK. I mean he changed the most of all the characters and his was ultimately for the better.
There were a few things that I didn't like. Little things that were probably necessary, but hurt while trying to read. Death of an unlikely character was a little too far for me though. Yes, it affected her, but it also didn't seem to stop her like it would have me and therefore, it seemed completely unnecessary. I can't say it didn't make the book interesting. I also hated that Jain was meant to do as they said more often than ask questions about what was going on. I know if I was told to pack and go just then, I would want to know where I was going, how the king even knew about me, why he wanted to marry me, etc. But she is told NOTHING???? Who would put up with that? She just takes it. I am all for a naïve character, but I like my main heroines to be strong and completely capable without having to have a man do anything/everything for them.
Some things I loved: The quotes. Tohmas was about the most romantic Hero that I have read in awhile and all he wanted was the support her in everything she did, but also to convince her she was worth being loved. I mean who wouldn't want that??? A guy who dotes on you and everything you do??? For Example:
"Jain. You are the most fascinating thing I have ever beheld. Just because you are not loud doesn't mean you should not be heard. Just because you keep still does not mean you should be ignored. You are holding my every curiosity. Right Now"
I swooned like crazy after reading this and it only got better.
Read this book, BUT, READ THE OTHERS FIRST. I definitely missed something, if not a lot of somethings because I didn't read them. The editing needed a little bit of help, but nonetheless, you can read the book without issue and it story makes you want to keep reading anyways. It will all be worth it in the end.
Now I'm off to read books 1-6 8)
The book starts with the main female character (Jain) at her husband's funeral(or what the equivalent would be called in this land). She is asked to become another man's wife and she will then be called the High Queen. Forgot to mention, she is something called a breath??? again, this was one of the things not understood fully by me. The Author gave definitions, but many times I felt that there should have been more given about EVERYTHING. For instance, I'm pretty sure a day is a "turn" and a year is a "circle," but there was never anything certain given about what they stood for. Maybe just a glossary of definitions for things, someone may not understand coming into the books like myself.
The story was actually really good. It kept the whole book going for me. I put it down once and that was just so I could use a break. The main male character (Tohmas) was by far my favorite. He started as a grumpy "old" king(not sure how much older he actually was from her because again, nothing was defined completely) who didn't want anything to do with anyone, but it turns out, he was just a lonely grieving king who didn't want to let his deceased wife down, by forgetting her. I mean what more could a replacement wife want? JK. I mean he changed the most of all the characters and his was ultimately for the better.
There were a few things that I didn't like. Little things that were probably necessary, but hurt while trying to read. Death of an unlikely character was a little too far for me though. Yes, it affected her, but it also didn't seem to stop her like it would have me and therefore, it seemed completely unnecessary. I can't say it didn't make the book interesting. I also hated that Jain was meant to do as they said more often than ask questions about what was going on. I know if I was told to pack and go just then, I would want to know where I was going, how the king even knew about me, why he wanted to marry me, etc. But she is told NOTHING???? Who would put up with that? She just takes it. I am all for a naïve character, but I like my main heroines to be strong and completely capable without having to have a man do anything/everything for them.
Some things I loved: The quotes. Tohmas was about the most romantic Hero that I have read in awhile and all he wanted was the support her in everything she did, but also to convince her she was worth being loved. I mean who wouldn't want that??? A guy who dotes on you and everything you do??? For Example:
"Jain. You are the most fascinating thing I have ever beheld. Just because you are not loud doesn't mean you should not be heard. Just because you keep still does not mean you should be ignored. You are holding my every curiosity. Right Now"
I swooned like crazy after reading this and it only got better.
Read this book, BUT, READ THE OTHERS FIRST. I definitely missed something, if not a lot of somethings because I didn't read them. The editing needed a little bit of help, but nonetheless, you can read the book without issue and it story makes you want to keep reading anyways. It will all be worth it in the end.
Now I'm off to read books 1-6 8)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
Unexpected
3.5 stars
I got this book as part of Amazon’s offer of free downloads in December. I had no idea what I was in for, but I was intrigued by the summary. I hadn’t read any books by the author and I decided to take a chance.
This book is incredibly confusing. I had a hard time keeping track of what was what in the beginning and the characters flowed one right into the other. It was so bad that at one point I considered putting it down because I just didn’t seem to understand what was what!
But. If you’re like me and you’re getting confused while reading this book, I urge you to continue. It’s confusing, but you start to connect things that you read in the beginning and now they’re starting to make sense as you get to the latter part of the book. Now, I’m not gonna say all of the questions are answered, but you are a little less impatient of what’s happening and you’re more willing to let things go to see how they end.
This book is incredibly heartbreaking and loving and sad. You’re reading about a woman who has been not well taken care of in her life. When she finally finds someone who seems to love her for her, they’re dramatically taken away from her. And you find a man who is heartbroken because his 1st wife has died and he cannot seem to function without feeling immense pain at the idea of living without her.
You have two broken people trying to foster a relationship and doing a horrible job at it, but still willing to give it a try. There are some incredibly emotional scenes and some very strange editing choices (like an over abundance of ellipses usage), but I do not regret reading this book.
3.5 stars
I got this book as part of Amazon’s offer of free downloads in December. I had no idea what I was in for, but I was intrigued by the summary. I hadn’t read any books by the author and I decided to take a chance.
This book is incredibly confusing. I had a hard time keeping track of what was what in the beginning and the characters flowed one right into the other. It was so bad that at one point I considered putting it down because I just didn’t seem to understand what was what!
But. If you’re like me and you’re getting confused while reading this book, I urge you to continue. It’s confusing, but you start to connect things that you read in the beginning and now they’re starting to make sense as you get to the latter part of the book. Now, I’m not gonna say all of the questions are answered, but you are a little less impatient of what’s happening and you’re more willing to let things go to see how they end.
This book is incredibly heartbreaking and loving and sad. You’re reading about a woman who has been not well taken care of in her life. When she finally finds someone who seems to love her for her, they’re dramatically taken away from her. And you find a man who is heartbroken because his 1st wife has died and he cannot seem to function without feeling immense pain at the idea of living without her.
You have two broken people trying to foster a relationship and doing a horrible job at it, but still willing to give it a try. There are some incredibly emotional scenes and some very strange editing choices (like an over abundance of ellipses usage), but I do not regret reading this book.
August 26, 2023
This book almost made me cryyyy the love between the two mc is so wholesome 🥹😭 It was a really nice breath of fresh air after reading books with bad boys and secret trauma and slightly toxic relationships that aren’t that toxic but just enough that the red flags are there you know what I mean?? Like Edward and Bella toxic (please don’t fight me for that they are slightly toxic it’s true 🫣). The First Muse really wasn’t very spicy compared to the other books because the focus is more on the caring and healing ❤️🩹 aspect of their relationship as opposed to the raw chemistry aspect. Again we got some of that wonderfully immersive dual POV which I always enjoy 😊 It was formatted a little differently than I’m used to. Instead of chapters the book was broken up into “episodes”. Not necessarily good or bad I just noted it and it was 😶. There was an implied age gap between the main characters that I didn’t really love that always makes me feel a little icky. Additionally, the beginning chapter felt a little disjointed, which cleared up in the next few chapters but it was hard to start it (which is why I’m writing a review today when the review deadline is… today 😬) However, the world building was relatively interesting and the depth of the main characters and their issues added some texture to the book. It felt like a genuine love story 💗, and I really enjoyed it. I would definitely read this and any other books by the author, especially on rainy days 🌧️ 📖 ☕️
August 26, 2023
Teshelle Combs has given us another amazing heroine for the world of the First Collection. Jain has spent her whole life being compared to the expectations others have for her - and suffering the disappointment, heartache, and abuse that went along with never being exactly what she "was supposed to be". Tohmas, like the best of the heroes of the drawing room romance era, sees Jain. Even if she isn't what he thinks he wants or needs, he sees her, and offers her space to grow. Even when faced with the challenges of defending their kingdom, they find strength in one another and in the sorrows that made them who they are.
I enjoyed the way we see Truth through Jain's eyes. With the unenviable ability to force peoples' Truths from them, Jain is intimately familiar with the wide range of emotions and reactions her powers can elicit from others. Despite all that, she still understands the power Truth has to not only hurt, but to heal.
I would recommend new readers start with other books from the First Collection. A great deal of world building happens as the stories progress and flow from one another, and it makes it easier to place Jain and Tohmas' story within the greater context of the realm of the First Collection.
I enjoyed the way we see Truth through Jain's eyes. With the unenviable ability to force peoples' Truths from them, Jain is intimately familiar with the wide range of emotions and reactions her powers can elicit from others. Despite all that, she still understands the power Truth has to not only hurt, but to heal.
I would recommend new readers start with other books from the First Collection. A great deal of world building happens as the stories progress and flow from one another, and it makes it easier to place Jain and Tohmas' story within the greater context of the realm of the First Collection.
August 21, 2023
I may not be great at writing reviews, but I can sure recognize & appreciate a great author
"If sit down, I will think. And if I think, I will wonder. And if I wonder, I will worry. And if I worry, I will panic. And if I panic, I will scream" #relatable
I hadn't explored too terribly much outside of the world of YA when I was still in high school, so wasn't quite sure what to think when I read that this was going to be an age gap romance. Jain and Tohmas quickly became my favorite couple that have read their stories of so far in The First Collection by Teshelle Combs.
I'm really not that great at reviewing other than by letting people know that have absolutely fallen in love with the writings of this author. I arc read The First Breath, bought it as soon as it hit the Kindle store, and went ahead and purchased the rest of the series through Kindle as well without reading any of the other descriptions.
This is only my third book of hers and couldn't be happier with my exploration of this beautiful fantasy, romance, action, and even funny at times stories. Interconnected by existing in the same world, but can still be read as standalones.
"If sit down, I will think. And if I think, I will wonder. And if I wonder, I will worry. And if I worry, I will panic. And if I panic, I will scream" #relatable
I hadn't explored too terribly much outside of the world of YA when I was still in high school, so wasn't quite sure what to think when I read that this was going to be an age gap romance. Jain and Tohmas quickly became my favorite couple that have read their stories of so far in The First Collection by Teshelle Combs.
I'm really not that great at reviewing other than by letting people know that have absolutely fallen in love with the writings of this author. I arc read The First Breath, bought it as soon as it hit the Kindle store, and went ahead and purchased the rest of the series through Kindle as well without reading any of the other descriptions.
This is only my third book of hers and couldn't be happier with my exploration of this beautiful fantasy, romance, action, and even funny at times stories. Interconnected by existing in the same world, but can still be read as standalones.
August 25, 2023
“And I want her. More than the darkness craves the moon.”
This one was kinder to my heart, but still made me tear up here and there. Jain, the FMC, is a likable character who comes off as soft, and passive, but poised and she grows beyond this in so many ways. In this book I really enjoyed how Combs reveals the character's backstory in perfect timing with the story, allowing it to flow and empathize with the characters. The love between Jain and Thomas as it grows sweeps you up as a reader.
“Desire is madness. And I am going to lose my mind.”
If you have read any of Combs' other works you might find some familiar things sprinkled throughout. what is great about this series is you can read each book as a standalone, but there is an interconnectedness that will keep you connected in the world of the First. In this book, we catch another view of Morn in action doing what Morn does best-wrecking havoc upon the world of the first. The world-building for this series is spectacular and intrinsic, and the diverse characters are always intriguing. I recommend this book for new adult and adult readers of fantasy and romance.
This one was kinder to my heart, but still made me tear up here and there. Jain, the FMC, is a likable character who comes off as soft, and passive, but poised and she grows beyond this in so many ways. In this book I really enjoyed how Combs reveals the character's backstory in perfect timing with the story, allowing it to flow and empathize with the characters. The love between Jain and Thomas as it grows sweeps you up as a reader.
“Desire is madness. And I am going to lose my mind.”
If you have read any of Combs' other works you might find some familiar things sprinkled throughout. what is great about this series is you can read each book as a standalone, but there is an interconnectedness that will keep you connected in the world of the First. In this book, we catch another view of Morn in action doing what Morn does best-wrecking havoc upon the world of the first. The world-building for this series is spectacular and intrinsic, and the diverse characters are always intriguing. I recommend this book for new adult and adult readers of fantasy and romance.
August 23, 2023
Oh. My. GOSH. This was my first TC read and I want sooo much more. I would’ve kept reading! I absolutely devoured it because it sucks you in from the very beginning. There’s so many parts highlighted. I was sad to get to the end. I’ll definitely be buying a hard copy and re-reading.
The story is beautiful. It’s a wonderful embodiment of how important it is to speak and embrace your Truth. The characters are lovable and relatable. The romance is well built, the best kind of slow burn, and believable. It’s one of those that you get so invested in, root for, and stress over, the whole time. TC shows that love and positivity can come from some of the darkest and seemingly impossible times in life.
The one and only negative I have was that there’s a few POV changes throughout the book, and it takes a second to realize. But it’s easy to catch on to!
Character development: 5⭐️
World development: 5⭐️
Relationship development: 5⭐️
Plot development: 5⭐️
Plot twists: 5⭐️
The DETAIL: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
The story is beautiful. It’s a wonderful embodiment of how important it is to speak and embrace your Truth. The characters are lovable and relatable. The romance is well built, the best kind of slow burn, and believable. It’s one of those that you get so invested in, root for, and stress over, the whole time. TC shows that love and positivity can come from some of the darkest and seemingly impossible times in life.
The one and only negative I have was that there’s a few POV changes throughout the book, and it takes a second to realize. But it’s easy to catch on to!
Character development: 5⭐️
World development: 5⭐️
Relationship development: 5⭐️
Plot development: 5⭐️
Plot twists: 5⭐️
The DETAIL: 5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
August 27, 2023
This story is about two souls whose lives have changed. King Tohmas has lost his wife who was a wild woman who he loved dearly till the very end; while Lady Jain has lost her husband who was abusive and was not sad about his death.
King Tohmas and Lady Jain end up married; Tohmas feels like he is betraying his wife if he chooses to love Jain while Jain feels she can be there in any way that he needs even if it's not the love that she wishes could happen.
The love that grows and festers till there is no denying it is an amazing slow-burn type of way. They find safety and love within each other. Jain and Tohmas are the complete opposite of their late spouses. Tohmas is supportive, kind, and overprotective; Jain is modest, soft-spoken, and wants him safe.
The ending of this book shows that your truth has power. That being said the ending to this book was insanity and I loved this book in more ways than I can write on a review, so thank you Teshelle Combs for writing this book.
King Tohmas and Lady Jain end up married; Tohmas feels like he is betraying his wife if he chooses to love Jain while Jain feels she can be there in any way that he needs even if it's not the love that she wishes could happen.
The love that grows and festers till there is no denying it is an amazing slow-burn type of way. They find safety and love within each other. Jain and Tohmas are the complete opposite of their late spouses. Tohmas is supportive, kind, and overprotective; Jain is modest, soft-spoken, and wants him safe.
The ending of this book shows that your truth has power. That being said the ending to this book was insanity and I loved this book in more ways than I can write on a review, so thank you Teshelle Combs for writing this book.
August 16, 2023
This is one of the most beautiful stories I think TCs graced us with yet. We often forget how deserving we are/can be when we are broken and full of sorrow. Only TC can take brokenness and sorrow and turn it into a powerful story of love and forgiveness and finding value in not just someone else or others, but in yourself as well. Beautiful people aren't always bright and vibrant and fluffy, beauty can be found anywhere and I think it's often forgotten. I love the contrast between Ari & Jain and how TC has written Thomas to be conflicted with his feelings for 2 extremely different women (past and present), the growth it shows and the appreciation for both doesn't waiver. It's realistic and raw and relatable! I also greatly appreciate, that while this is a standalone, she is able to make mentions - tie ins - nods - to others in the first collection - filling in details, background, and more for other stories (also past and present)!
August 22, 2023
Highlights: fantasy, arranged marriage, age gap, betrayal, self discovery
Favorite Character: Jain
Honorable Mentions: Ruza Tohmas Forte
Character that grew on me: Olivar
Favorite Scene: scenes with Ruza, she brought comedy into the world when it was filled with heaviness.
Overall thoughts: amazing book, Jain had wisdom well beyond her years. She was forced to grow up fast and that was very relatable for me.
Star Rating: 5 out of 5
Why: this books deserves a 5 because it is written beautifully, the characters are relatable and it left me needing more. I also loved all of the connections to the other books.
Previous Predictions: in previous predictions (turned hopes) I was looking for more connections - this story did that. It put puzzle pieces together that I was clearly missing!
Predictions: the Firsts don’t “die” they are sort of reborn - are they immortal? If so, I think it would be cool to have like a short story of all the firsts at like a ball or something.
Favorite Character: Jain
Honorable Mentions: Ruza Tohmas Forte
Character that grew on me: Olivar
Favorite Scene: scenes with Ruza, she brought comedy into the world when it was filled with heaviness.
Overall thoughts: amazing book, Jain had wisdom well beyond her years. She was forced to grow up fast and that was very relatable for me.
Star Rating: 5 out of 5
Why: this books deserves a 5 because it is written beautifully, the characters are relatable and it left me needing more. I also loved all of the connections to the other books.
Previous Predictions: in previous predictions (turned hopes) I was looking for more connections - this story did that. It put puzzle pieces together that I was clearly missing!
Predictions: the Firsts don’t “die” they are sort of reborn - are they immortal? If so, I think it would be cool to have like a short story of all the firsts at like a ball or something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2023
After reading The First Breath, I was skeptical that another set of characters could measure up to the utter catastrophe that was Cass and Griff. Yet, The First Muse came exceptionally close.
For transparency's sake, I received The First Muse as an Advanced Reader’s Copy (ARC) and my review is honest and unpaid/unsponsored.
Now, about Jain and Tohmas…
How dare Teshelle Combs rip my heart out, stomp it, and replace it for her next book yet again?! I can relate to Jain in a way I wasn’t aware would be possible in a fictional character. The dark and twisties that we inherently try to hide from others; how we should really work harder on embracing them, understanding them, and working through them so we can achieve our fullest potential. It felt like a strange version of therapy, reminding me it’s okay not to be okay.
I cannot wait to see how Tess’s next book in the First Collection will ruin me, but in the best of ways.
For transparency's sake, I received The First Muse as an Advanced Reader’s Copy (ARC) and my review is honest and unpaid/unsponsored.
Now, about Jain and Tohmas…
How dare Teshelle Combs rip my heart out, stomp it, and replace it for her next book yet again?! I can relate to Jain in a way I wasn’t aware would be possible in a fictional character. The dark and twisties that we inherently try to hide from others; how we should really work harder on embracing them, understanding them, and working through them so we can achieve our fullest potential. It felt like a strange version of therapy, reminding me it’s okay not to be okay.
I cannot wait to see how Tess’s next book in the First Collection will ruin me, but in the best of ways.
September 3, 2023
Filling empty shoes
I have to say, when I first started off reading TFM, I wasn’t too sure about the amount of conversational writing. I have never read a book with this style of writing and while it took me a few pages to mock up the movie in my head, I found it perfect for imagining a play by play of everything happening as if I were inside the story myself.
Character building is so well done!
We are met by Jaine, a breath. Freshly a widow and lost well before the death of her husband. She quickly finds herself betrothed to a stranger, a man elder than herself and a high king, Tohmas.
Grief is something she hasn’t personally felt in her marriage but it is everything she is faced with inside her new kindom. We follow her journey in finding herself, love and happiness truly for the first time in her life. Her truth is the key.
Teshelle does an amazing job world building and setting the scene of a tension filled kingdom seeking salvage. The Queen of sorrow does just that.
I have to say, when I first started off reading TFM, I wasn’t too sure about the amount of conversational writing. I have never read a book with this style of writing and while it took me a few pages to mock up the movie in my head, I found it perfect for imagining a play by play of everything happening as if I were inside the story myself.
Character building is so well done!
We are met by Jaine, a breath. Freshly a widow and lost well before the death of her husband. She quickly finds herself betrothed to a stranger, a man elder than herself and a high king, Tohmas.
Grief is something she hasn’t personally felt in her marriage but it is everything she is faced with inside her new kindom. We follow her journey in finding herself, love and happiness truly for the first time in her life. Her truth is the key.
Teshelle does an amazing job world building and setting the scene of a tension filled kingdom seeking salvage. The Queen of sorrow does just that.
September 30, 2023
This was my second eARC I received from Teshelle Combs and second book I have read of hers. I didn’t think I would enjoy one as much as The First Breath, but this one is definitely my favorite thus far! The First Muse was such a beautiful story of finding love after loss, filled with so much emotion, action, and just the right amount of spice! I absolutely loved the progression of Jain and Tohmas’ relationship, as well as the character building of each individual. Jain is very relatable, and I loved the patience she showed Tohmas throughout, as well as the journey of finding her self-worth! Plus, I absolutely love Tohmas- so much vulnerability, strength, and courage from a male lead. I hope to one day find my Tohmas! The secondary characters were also well-written making this story top notch! And, the ending!!! OMG! I didn’t want this story to end! This is one that will last with you forever! Combs did not disappoint!
January 16, 2024
I had so much fun reading this book. The world building was solid and had me enthralled from the get-go. Jaine was so interesting, and I love how her story was told. She was not some mindless person who writhed when she was touched by Tohmas, but there was much more emotion going on. The spice was not very present, but the romance, her story, and the angst are what kept me glued to the pages.
The combination of the romance, old language, and the world it played in, this book is very much a favorite now. Though i would have liked to have the end of the book feel less rushed, it did keep the pace I guess the book had throughout.
I was not familiar with Teshelle Combs, but it is time to change that now haha, the writing style is very fun and shakes up the reading I am used to. I downloaded this book for free on Kindle, but when my bank account lets me, I'll buy a fysical copy of the book.
The combination of the romance, old language, and the world it played in, this book is very much a favorite now. Though i would have liked to have the end of the book feel less rushed, it did keep the pace I guess the book had throughout.
I was not familiar with Teshelle Combs, but it is time to change that now haha, the writing style is very fun and shakes up the reading I am used to. I downloaded this book for free on Kindle, but when my bank account lets me, I'll buy a fysical copy of the book.
August 20, 2023
✨✨ARC REVIEW✨✨
This is a really good book!
Tess has an incredible style of writing, she really knows how to pace the book well so it’s not too fast or slow at any particular moment, and the level of detail is just gorgeous.
Being my first book from this author, there was a couple concepts I’ll definitely need to read a few more books to figure out what they sort of mean in terms of the realm in this story, but it didn’t really leave me confused or distracted which I can honestly say is the first time a book has ever done for me! 😍
All in all I hope Jain and Tohmas’ story continue’s in the future, at some point, it would be interesting to see the little love triangle between Jain and Olivar be sort of explored or something, or maybe even the story written from Olivar or Tohmas’s perspective 🤔 but in saying that I really did love this book I had no faults 5/5
Thank you so much to Tess giving me this opportunity to read and review one of your books, it was an honour and I wish you all the best of luck with your future writing career 🙂 I will definitely be adding all your books to my TBR pile and signing up for more reads in the future!
This is a really good book!
Tess has an incredible style of writing, she really knows how to pace the book well so it’s not too fast or slow at any particular moment, and the level of detail is just gorgeous.
Being my first book from this author, there was a couple concepts I’ll definitely need to read a few more books to figure out what they sort of mean in terms of the realm in this story, but it didn’t really leave me confused or distracted which I can honestly say is the first time a book has ever done for me! 😍
All in all I hope Jain and Tohmas’ story continue’s in the future, at some point, it would be interesting to see the little love triangle between Jain and Olivar be sort of explored or something, or maybe even the story written from Olivar or Tohmas’s perspective 🤔 but in saying that I really did love this book I had no faults 5/5
Thank you so much to Tess giving me this opportunity to read and review one of your books, it was an honour and I wish you all the best of luck with your future writing career 🙂 I will definitely be adding all your books to my TBR pile and signing up for more reads in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2023
Beyond a Jane Austen retelling, a must read!
This book is a beautiful rendition of what it means to own your Truth and the power behind that.
We find two souls that are both brought together by the death of their spouses. One a lonely King who’s suppresses loss brings his kingdom to literally tremble. The other a beautiful young widow who has been overlooked over and over again simply for not meeting society’s expectation of what a Breathe should be.
Their story unfolds with beautiful prose as they both confront their feelings for each other as well as about themselves. Love grows richer, intrigue goes deeper and political ramifications are brought to light that were unexpected.
With witty and lovable side characters like Ruza and Emery Oliver this book has everything you need in a novel. A definite must read.
This book is a beautiful rendition of what it means to own your Truth and the power behind that.
We find two souls that are both brought together by the death of their spouses. One a lonely King who’s suppresses loss brings his kingdom to literally tremble. The other a beautiful young widow who has been overlooked over and over again simply for not meeting society’s expectation of what a Breathe should be.
Their story unfolds with beautiful prose as they both confront their feelings for each other as well as about themselves. Love grows richer, intrigue goes deeper and political ramifications are brought to light that were unexpected.
With witty and lovable side characters like Ruza and Emery Oliver this book has everything you need in a novel. A definite must read.
August 20, 2023
The story of Jain and Tohmas is one that I didn't see coming. A young woman whose life of misery had left her broken in a way that I could understand, and a man who loved so deeply it didn't know how to go on without it. Thrust together by those looking for their own peace, Tohmas and Jain find something greater in themselves by opening up to each other. Their journey supplemented by those that could be considered both friends and enemies.
The book captivated me from the first page, and I didn't put it down until I had devoured the last one. The emotional rollercoaster it brought me on was wholly unexpected and I both love and hate Teshelle Combs with a passion now. This is the first book I have read from her and I am almost desperate to read another, although I'm not sure my heart could take it at the moment.
The book captivated me from the first page, and I didn't put it down until I had devoured the last one. The emotional rollercoaster it brought me on was wholly unexpected and I both love and hate Teshelle Combs with a passion now. This is the first book I have read from her and I am almost desperate to read another, although I'm not sure my heart could take it at the moment.
August 21, 2023
This book had me hooked from the first page, and I couldn't help but find pieces of myself in the main characters' emotions. There were moments when I was so invested that I practically became an honorary member of their emotional rollercoaster. I mean, I actually found myself grabbing my chest in solidarity with Jain at one point – now that's what I call literary immersion!
Now, can we talk about that anticipation for the rest of the series? It's like waiting for the next season of your favorite show, except you get to jump right back into this enchanting world of words. I'm strapping in for the ride and can't wait to unravel more mysteries and soak up the vivid details that make this world come alive. So here's to more heartstrings tugged, more pages turned, and more adventures to come!
Now, can we talk about that anticipation for the rest of the series? It's like waiting for the next season of your favorite show, except you get to jump right back into this enchanting world of words. I'm strapping in for the ride and can't wait to unravel more mysteries and soak up the vivid details that make this world come alive. So here's to more heartstrings tugged, more pages turned, and more adventures to come!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews