What do you think?
Rate this book
Obsidian Tide
Can two unlikely heroes break free from societal expectations and find the inner strength to save their kingdom in Obsidian Tide ? Set in the splendor of the Victorian Age and mixed with the intrigue of a classic fantasy quest – Obsidian Tide chronicles the epic quest of Princess Katerina, Liam – the Akarian Emperor’s outcast nephew, and Anthony – Liam’s brother and the Emperor’s chosen heir to retrieve a magical relic. The Healing Stone is one of four long lost magical stones. It is known to contain the powers needed to cure any disease and when the threat of a terrible disease, known as The Obsidian Streaks, hits too close to home, the Healing Stone soon becomes Akaria’s only hope. Readers will follow the daring trio of the Akarian Empire royalty as they’re forced into societal roles that go against what they desire. The trio embarks on a harrowing quest to find the dragon-protected Healing Stone that promises to save many lives from the grip of the Obsidian Streaks. Along their journey – through triumphs, perils, and major setbacks – the trio must navigate the world, learning more about themselves all the while being the last line of hope to preserve the Akarian Empire’s storied legacy. The journey forces the characters to set aside who they were always told to be, in order to embrace who they truly are.
276 pages, Paperback
Published March 5, 2024
5 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
JoAnna McSpadden
4 books27 followersJoAnna McSpadden is a software developer by day and high fantasy writer by night – giving her a truly eclectic perspective of the world around us. She is a lifelong writer, creative adventurer, bibliophile, and avid fantasy board game enthusiast. When she’s not programming e-commerce websites for major household brands, she’s writing illustrative literary works of art that inspire readers to dream, embrace their authenticity, and defy the odds to go after whatever it is that they desire – even if it goes against the status quo. JoAnna lives in Kansas City with her husband.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 1, 2024
Obsidian Tide: by JoAnna McSpadden
💙 High fantasy
💙 Romantic tension
💙 Magic is a disease
💙 Power discovery!
What an adventure! JoAnna's writing is exciting and captivating. I loved the dual POVs and learning about the unique magic system. Can't wait for the next one!
💙 High fantasy
💙 Romantic tension
💙 Magic is a disease
💙 Power discovery!
What an adventure! JoAnna's writing is exciting and captivating. I loved the dual POVs and learning about the unique magic system. Can't wait for the next one!
March 11, 2024
Umm excuse me? I didn’t expect this book to hook me that way!😍
I absolutely loved this story. This is perfect for lovers of magic, romantic tension, and friendship. The characters were carefully curated, the development was perfect. During the first few chapters you’re already feeling hooked. I loved the world building, the political intrigue, and of course the growth in romance although this is not the center of the story.
If you’re a lover of Will Herondale, this is perfect for you. The wittiness of one of the MMC had me chuckling and it reminded me of him. Add in the magic and the different creatures, it was such a great story to follow. The journey creates bonds and definitely has us on the edge of our seats. I love Katerina, she’s likable, eager to help, and fierce. Liam is my fav, I can’t wait to see where the story goes!
Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
I absolutely loved this story. This is perfect for lovers of magic, romantic tension, and friendship. The characters were carefully curated, the development was perfect. During the first few chapters you’re already feeling hooked. I loved the world building, the political intrigue, and of course the growth in romance although this is not the center of the story.
If you’re a lover of Will Herondale, this is perfect for you. The wittiness of one of the MMC had me chuckling and it reminded me of him. Add in the magic and the different creatures, it was such a great story to follow. The journey creates bonds and definitely has us on the edge of our seats. I love Katerina, she’s likable, eager to help, and fierce. Liam is my fav, I can’t wait to see where the story goes!
Huge thanks to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
March 7, 2024
WOW!!!
I don't read a lot of fantasy; I have my go-to authors in the fantasy genre and typically don't venture out. But I HAD to give JoAnna McSpadden a read because her story seemed right up my alley!
She writes with a Cassandra Clare flare! And for me, that is a hard thing to do! She captures your attention in the very beginning and then creates such well-developed characters that you can't help but root for them! Just when you think you know how things are going to turn out, McSpadden flips the tables and takes you in a completely different direction.
I am amazed at the world she has created while never losing you in all the details. She brings you into a brand new world, but she writes in a way that makes you feel like you've always belonged there. There's not just humans in this world, but mythical creatures, and magical beings. And yet, with each new introduction, I could picture these beings perfectly. She doesn't spend pages and pages of unnecessary details. She has a true gift for introducing you to this world and keeping you there! A hard feat for fantasy.
Her characters are strong, flawed, and beloved! And honestly, I don't know who I'm rooting for in this love triangle. . . rectangle? I DON'T KNOW!! I'm so invested in this journey and she ends it on such a cliff hanger that I will definitely be back for this series! I already can't wait for book 2!
I don't read a lot of fantasy; I have my go-to authors in the fantasy genre and typically don't venture out. But I HAD to give JoAnna McSpadden a read because her story seemed right up my alley!
She writes with a Cassandra Clare flare! And for me, that is a hard thing to do! She captures your attention in the very beginning and then creates such well-developed characters that you can't help but root for them! Just when you think you know how things are going to turn out, McSpadden flips the tables and takes you in a completely different direction.
I am amazed at the world she has created while never losing you in all the details. She brings you into a brand new world, but she writes in a way that makes you feel like you've always belonged there. There's not just humans in this world, but mythical creatures, and magical beings. And yet, with each new introduction, I could picture these beings perfectly. She doesn't spend pages and pages of unnecessary details. She has a true gift for introducing you to this world and keeping you there! A hard feat for fantasy.
Her characters are strong, flawed, and beloved! And honestly, I don't know who I'm rooting for in this love triangle. . . rectangle? I DON'T KNOW!! I'm so invested in this journey and she ends it on such a cliff hanger that I will definitely be back for this series! I already can't wait for book 2!
April 26, 2025
“Can two unlikely heroes defy fate and save their crumbling kingdom?”
Oh darling, Obsidian Tide was an absolute rollercoaster — thrilling, dangerous, and soaked in magic!
From the very first chapter, I was swept into the world of the Akarian Empire — where power, legacy, and identity collide in the most breathtaking ways.
Princess Katerina, Liam (the rebellious royal), and Anthony (the golden heir) stole my heart. Each had such a distinct voice and inner struggle, and watching them grow felt so personal. And don’t even get me started on the side characters — Alexander??? My heart still hasn’t recovered. I gasped. I sobbed. I didn’t see it coming.
Also — can we talk about Mikhal?? I had my doubts about him since the moment he came along… and whew, I knew something was off!
Set in a lush, Victorian-inspired fantasy world plagued by a deadly illness called The Obsidian Streaks, this book follows a gripping quest to retrieve the dragon-guarded Healing Stone — a relic powerful enough to cure any disease. Magical creatures, lost powers, hidden truths… it’s all here.
The worldbuilding? Immaculate. The tension? Chef’s kiss. And the character arcs? So, so powerful. Watching these three break away from what society expected of them to embrace who they really are? Ugh, it hit deep.
And that ending?? Completely shocking!! Thank the stars I had book two ready to go, because there’s no way I could’ve just sat with that cliffhanger. I’m diving straight in and I already know it’s going to be intense.
If you're into:
– found family
– royal intrigue
– magical quests
– emotional plot twists
– and a dash of Victorian flair
then Obsidian Tide deserves a top spot on your TBR!
Rating: 5/5 — I was OBSESSED.
Bring on the sequel, I’m ready!
Oh darling, Obsidian Tide was an absolute rollercoaster — thrilling, dangerous, and soaked in magic!
From the very first chapter, I was swept into the world of the Akarian Empire — where power, legacy, and identity collide in the most breathtaking ways.
Princess Katerina, Liam (the rebellious royal), and Anthony (the golden heir) stole my heart. Each had such a distinct voice and inner struggle, and watching them grow felt so personal. And don’t even get me started on the side characters — Alexander??? My heart still hasn’t recovered. I gasped. I sobbed. I didn’t see it coming.
Also — can we talk about Mikhal?? I had my doubts about him since the moment he came along… and whew, I knew something was off!
Set in a lush, Victorian-inspired fantasy world plagued by a deadly illness called The Obsidian Streaks, this book follows a gripping quest to retrieve the dragon-guarded Healing Stone — a relic powerful enough to cure any disease. Magical creatures, lost powers, hidden truths… it’s all here.
The worldbuilding? Immaculate. The tension? Chef’s kiss. And the character arcs? So, so powerful. Watching these three break away from what society expected of them to embrace who they really are? Ugh, it hit deep.
And that ending?? Completely shocking!! Thank the stars I had book two ready to go, because there’s no way I could’ve just sat with that cliffhanger. I’m diving straight in and I already know it’s going to be intense.
If you're into:
– found family
– royal intrigue
– magical quests
– emotional plot twists
– and a dash of Victorian flair
then Obsidian Tide deserves a top spot on your TBR!
Rating: 5/5 — I was OBSESSED.
Bring on the sequel, I’m ready!
May 29, 2024
This was a fun read perfect for any high fantasy lover. The characters, the creatures, and the world had me fully immersed! And that ending has me itching for the next book. Liam was SUCH a lovable protagonist, you couldn't help but root for him in everything. I can't wait to read future books in this series!
May 25, 2024
Magic, an incurable disease, an epic quest to find the only cure, strong friendships and romantic tension. Obsidian Tide is everything you want in a fantasy plus more!
Told in dual POV I was immediately drawn into the characters and was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would unfold for both Katerina and Liam as well as all the other lovable characters the author wove into the novel.
I couldn’t put this magical adventure down and the ending had me needing book two immediately! I can’t wait to see where both Katerina and Liam’s stories take us in the next book.
Told in dual POV I was immediately drawn into the characters and was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would unfold for both Katerina and Liam as well as all the other lovable characters the author wove into the novel.
I couldn’t put this magical adventure down and the ending had me needing book two immediately! I can’t wait to see where both Katerina and Liam’s stories take us in the next book.
March 19, 2024
Liam doesn’t know what’s wrong with him. He’s visibly shaking. His vision is spotty; his hands are sweating. He’s attended large royal functions plenty of times - after all, his uncle is the Emperor of Akaria, and his older brother, Anthony, is the heir - so it’s not nerves . . . Tonight’s function is a big one. The Emperor has arranged for Anthony to marry the eldest daughter of the Esterine Kingdom, Princess Katarina. The arrival of the Esterine Royalty is momentous - never has an Esterine Royal graced the grounds of Akaria. The ball goes well. Liam maintains control, Princess Katarina seems charming, and Anthony certainly seems charmed. Unfortunately, the evening ends in disaster. The emperor collapses in Liam’s arms. Liam is shocked when he sees gray, jagged, raised lines branching up his uncle’s arms. He knows what these lines mean. They’re the marks known to only befoul the skin of Isvarian witches.
Although Katarina enjoyed the ball more than she expected (which was not at all) and she was pleasantly surprised by her betrothed’s nice eyes, she’s a wreck. She is sick and shaking as soon as the maids leave her room. She watches the black veiny lines branch over her heart and across her chest. The Obsidian Streaks.
And all of this happens within the first twenty pages of the book!
Katarina needs to find an Isvarian to learn about her secret and hidden magic. She knows that learning to control her magic is the only way to control the streaks. Luckily, her Tyken guard, Kona, knows of such a man. Alexander is a recluse, an old friend of the emperor who is allowed to live on the grounds. He very (VERY) reluctantly agrees to help Katarina.
Liam learns from his dying uncle the reason why Liam has been so unwell lately. The shaking, sweating, and spotting vision all have an origin. And that origin makes Liam the only one who can secure the cure to his uncle’s deadly streaks. Emperor Shadox charges Liam with the mission to find the Healing Stone - one of four enchanted stones that contain all of the world’s ancient, forbidden magic. Liam gladly accepts the charge as its success will not only save the Emperor but will uncover the powers Liam always knew he must possess.
Give. Me. All. The. Quest. Stories!!! Liam isn’t the only one on the quest to find and unite the stones. So is Katarina. They, along with Alexander and Anthony (and some help from Kona) head out on this secret and dangerous adventure where they will forge a friendship and face much, much more than they bargained for. Including dragons. Dragons!!!!!
Obsidian Tide is one of those sweet-spot fantasy books. It’s a quick, non-stop action read that will appeal to everyone from strong middle school readers to adult fantasy fans. The romance is low (potential for more in the sequel) and the world-building is fire. Debut author, Joanna McSpadden, has a bestseller on her hands! Except I’m kinda mad at her for that cliffhanger! She’s got a lot of questions to answer. But I have complete faith in her.
Although Katarina enjoyed the ball more than she expected (which was not at all) and she was pleasantly surprised by her betrothed’s nice eyes, she’s a wreck. She is sick and shaking as soon as the maids leave her room. She watches the black veiny lines branch over her heart and across her chest. The Obsidian Streaks.
And all of this happens within the first twenty pages of the book!
Katarina needs to find an Isvarian to learn about her secret and hidden magic. She knows that learning to control her magic is the only way to control the streaks. Luckily, her Tyken guard, Kona, knows of such a man. Alexander is a recluse, an old friend of the emperor who is allowed to live on the grounds. He very (VERY) reluctantly agrees to help Katarina.
Liam learns from his dying uncle the reason why Liam has been so unwell lately. The shaking, sweating, and spotting vision all have an origin. And that origin makes Liam the only one who can secure the cure to his uncle’s deadly streaks. Emperor Shadox charges Liam with the mission to find the Healing Stone - one of four enchanted stones that contain all of the world’s ancient, forbidden magic. Liam gladly accepts the charge as its success will not only save the Emperor but will uncover the powers Liam always knew he must possess.
Give. Me. All. The. Quest. Stories!!! Liam isn’t the only one on the quest to find and unite the stones. So is Katarina. They, along with Alexander and Anthony (and some help from Kona) head out on this secret and dangerous adventure where they will forge a friendship and face much, much more than they bargained for. Including dragons. Dragons!!!!!
Obsidian Tide is one of those sweet-spot fantasy books. It’s a quick, non-stop action read that will appeal to everyone from strong middle school readers to adult fantasy fans. The romance is low (potential for more in the sequel) and the world-building is fire. Debut author, Joanna McSpadden, has a bestseller on her hands! Except I’m kinda mad at her for that cliffhanger! She’s got a lot of questions to answer. But I have complete faith in her.
March 13, 2025
This book is a delightful and engaging read, perfect for anyone looking for a light-hearted adventure. The story offers a classic fantasy experience with a richly built world that draws readers in without overwhelming them. The world-building is compelling, and it sets the stage for a memorable journey that feels both fresh and familiar.
The pacing of the story is quick, making it an easy read, and its approachable writing style makes it an ideal starting point for younger readers who are curious about fantasy. It’s a great choice for those looking to dip their toes into the genre without being bogged down by heavy themes.
Overall, this book is a fantastic introduction to the world of fantasy, with plenty of adventure and imagination to captivate its audience.
The only reason I didn't give this a full five stars is because I typically read romantasy, and to put it plainly—this book didn’t have any smut. Otherwise, it was a fantastic read!
I also never read book blurbs or intros, as I prefer to go in blind and experience the journey without any spoilers.
The pacing of the story is quick, making it an easy read, and its approachable writing style makes it an ideal starting point for younger readers who are curious about fantasy. It’s a great choice for those looking to dip their toes into the genre without being bogged down by heavy themes.
Overall, this book is a fantastic introduction to the world of fantasy, with plenty of adventure and imagination to captivate its audience.
The only reason I didn't give this a full five stars is because I typically read romantasy, and to put it plainly—this book didn’t have any smut. Otherwise, it was a fantastic read!
I also never read book blurbs or intros, as I prefer to go in blind and experience the journey without any spoilers.
April 27, 2025
Obsidian Tide is Book 1 of the Lumos Gems Chronicles by Joanna McSpadden. In this book we follow along as Liam, Anthony, Katerina, Alexander, and Mikhal begin a dangerous and daring search for the Lumos Gemstones.
Obsidian Tide is a dynamic, adult fantasy written in a world that is magical and has a Victorian era feel. McSpadden creates a world that is vibrant and enchanting. The storyline will capture your interest and will keep you entertained with its fast pace and revelations.
The characters and their stories are well thought out and get you invested in what happens. Each one made me feel so many different emotions as I read; joy, sadness, and frustration just to name a few. It was easy to connect with them and their story.
This one ends on a huge cliffhanger, and I can’t wait to see how it continues. If you are looking for a fast paced fantasy that takes you on a wild adventure, you should start your journey here.
Obsidian Tide is a dynamic, adult fantasy written in a world that is magical and has a Victorian era feel. McSpadden creates a world that is vibrant and enchanting. The storyline will capture your interest and will keep you entertained with its fast pace and revelations.
The characters and their stories are well thought out and get you invested in what happens. Each one made me feel so many different emotions as I read; joy, sadness, and frustration just to name a few. It was easy to connect with them and their story.
This one ends on a huge cliffhanger, and I can’t wait to see how it continues. If you are looking for a fast paced fantasy that takes you on a wild adventure, you should start your journey here.
April 27, 2025
4.5/5 stars
This was a phenomenal quest story! I was easily immersed in their magical world through the extraordinary worldbuilding and fantastical creatures! The intricacies and diversity between the different kingdoms and their beliefs added so much depth to the narrative. The magic system was also wonderfully detailed with the addition of lore and origin stories. I loved the inclusion of all these little details and ate them up!
This quest story follows the journey of Liam, Anthony, and Katerina as their lives start to unravel and are ultimately thrown together by fate on a quest for a magical relic. The dual point of view gave you more insight into Liam and Katerina's stories, and I loved seeing their growth as they overcame their fears and insecurities and trusted in themselves.
I absolutely loved the surprise ending!! The cliffhanger had me in shock!! I can't wait to see what becomes of them next and this love quadrangle?!
This was a phenomenal quest story! I was easily immersed in their magical world through the extraordinary worldbuilding and fantastical creatures! The intricacies and diversity between the different kingdoms and their beliefs added so much depth to the narrative. The magic system was also wonderfully detailed with the addition of lore and origin stories. I loved the inclusion of all these little details and ate them up!
This quest story follows the journey of Liam, Anthony, and Katerina as their lives start to unravel and are ultimately thrown together by fate on a quest for a magical relic. The dual point of view gave you more insight into Liam and Katerina's stories, and I loved seeing their growth as they overcame their fears and insecurities and trusted in themselves.
I absolutely loved the surprise ending!! The cliffhanger had me in shock!! I can't wait to see what becomes of them next and this love quadrangle?!
November 10, 2023
I really enjoyed this book!
McSpadden combines engaging storytelling, appropriately detailed world building, and both familiar and new fantasy elements to deliver a compelling first book in her series.
She avoids the awkwardness you typically find in an author’s first novel by having a good balance between inner monologues and dialogue. She uses diverse language to explain emotions and experiences, which gives her characters more depth.
The story is easy to follow, but has unexpected twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. I found myself becoming more and more invested in the characters as the story went on, and I’m eager to see what comes next after the cliffhanger at the end!
This book does not contain any sexual content (“spice”), but does contain hints of romance. It would be appropriate for, and would appeal to, a wide range of readers.
McSpadden combines engaging storytelling, appropriately detailed world building, and both familiar and new fantasy elements to deliver a compelling first book in her series.
She avoids the awkwardness you typically find in an author’s first novel by having a good balance between inner monologues and dialogue. She uses diverse language to explain emotions and experiences, which gives her characters more depth.
The story is easy to follow, but has unexpected twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. I found myself becoming more and more invested in the characters as the story went on, and I’m eager to see what comes next after the cliffhanger at the end!
This book does not contain any sexual content (“spice”), but does contain hints of romance. It would be appropriate for, and would appeal to, a wide range of readers.
March 19, 2025
I jumped into this story not knowing much about the plot. The storyline was easy to grasp and despite being a fantasy there isn't complicated terminology to memorize (which is a plus).
One of the things that I love the most about this story is how magic had an extreme consequence: the obsidian streaks. The author does an excellent job of highlighting the severity of the dried-up magic well and the consequences of using too much.
The characters fell a little bit flat. We are told a lot of things about them rather than being able to observe their character traits through their interactions. I love the found family aspect of our group, where they are forced to build trust with each other and test their weaknesses of having no experience or knowledge about their powers.
I'm looking forward to reading the second book's arc.
One of the things that I love the most about this story is how magic had an extreme consequence: the obsidian streaks. The author does an excellent job of highlighting the severity of the dried-up magic well and the consequences of using too much.
The characters fell a little bit flat. We are told a lot of things about them rather than being able to observe their character traits through their interactions. I love the found family aspect of our group, where they are forced to build trust with each other and test their weaknesses of having no experience or knowledge about their powers.
I'm looking forward to reading the second book's arc.
March 19, 2025
Takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world trapped in lore with ancient secrets, blending elements of hidden magic, danger, and a blossoming (Slow, Slow burn) romance. In this enchanting tale, there is 1 emotional, Heroine finding her place she is thrust into, not of her accord and 3 males with their views and agendas, seeking their own vibe on who is the authentic Alpha male.
As the plot thickens and the story unfolds theres cursed objects involving Witches, elemental gods, mermaids, other worldly creatures interwoven with elemental magic, weaving complicated relationships with lore and dark legacies. As the battle begins between light and dark, the group finds themselves trapped in different obstacles and just when they feel, they finally have a foot hold. Tragic strikes again, leaving you in the dark like the group themselves..
As the plot thickens and the story unfolds theres cursed objects involving Witches, elemental gods, mermaids, other worldly creatures interwoven with elemental magic, weaving complicated relationships with lore and dark legacies. As the battle begins between light and dark, the group finds themselves trapped in different obstacles and just when they feel, they finally have a foot hold. Tragic strikes again, leaving you in the dark like the group themselves..
March 28, 2025
Obsidian Tide by Joanna Mcspadden
"Following someone else's plan will only bury you. You must dig down deep inside and free yourself from the weight of the rocks before it is too much."
“I see the fire in you. I can tell Destiny has something magnificent planned for you.”
“I’ve been dreaming of you. I’ve finally found you.”
This was a quick, enjoyable, coming of age read. I wasn't sure what to expect going in, but it was a great story. An epic quest with twists and turns with an array of creatures, unique magic, and a deadly curse. That ending!! my mouth dropped and I had to reread a few times to make sure I read it right. Will they save the Kingdom? You’ll have to read and find out. I'm excited and intrigued on how it will all unfold in the next book!
Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy.
"Following someone else's plan will only bury you. You must dig down deep inside and free yourself from the weight of the rocks before it is too much."
“I see the fire in you. I can tell Destiny has something magnificent planned for you.”
“I’ve been dreaming of you. I’ve finally found you.”
This was a quick, enjoyable, coming of age read. I wasn't sure what to expect going in, but it was a great story. An epic quest with twists and turns with an array of creatures, unique magic, and a deadly curse. That ending!! my mouth dropped and I had to reread a few times to make sure I read it right. Will they save the Kingdom? You’ll have to read and find out. I'm excited and intrigued on how it will all unfold in the next book!
Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy.
May 2, 2025
Rating: 5 / 5 ⭐
Yallll, you don’t understand how much I love this book.
Obsidian Tide reminded me why I’m foremost a fantasy girlie. I love romantasy as much as the next person but fantasy has been my go-to genre for as long as I can remember.
The plot twists, world building, epic quests, found family. Obsidian Tide has it all.
From the moment I started the book I was intrigued, especially with the characters chosen for dual POV. I’m so used to the dual POV being the two love interests but romance isn’t really the focus here. If we are getting a romance story line, it’ll be a slow slow burn.
Joanna McSpadden’s world building is nothing less than immaculate. The cultural divide between different kingdoms and their beliefs added an additional layer to the plot that really amped up the political intrigue.
High fantasy fans of Dawn of Onyx and Ash Princess, this is for you.
Yallll, you don’t understand how much I love this book.
Obsidian Tide reminded me why I’m foremost a fantasy girlie. I love romantasy as much as the next person but fantasy has been my go-to genre for as long as I can remember.
The plot twists, world building, epic quests, found family. Obsidian Tide has it all.
From the moment I started the book I was intrigued, especially with the characters chosen for dual POV. I’m so used to the dual POV being the two love interests but romance isn’t really the focus here. If we are getting a romance story line, it’ll be a slow slow burn.
Joanna McSpadden’s world building is nothing less than immaculate. The cultural divide between different kingdoms and their beliefs added an additional layer to the plot that really amped up the political intrigue.
High fantasy fans of Dawn of Onyx and Ash Princess, this is for you.
March 18, 2025
I'm very excited for this series and the future books from McSpadden. Obsidian Tide is a well written, classic fantasy with interesting characters and a beautiful world. Humans, magical creatures, dragons, with a magic based sickness pushing the tension. The plot is interesting and complex while not being overly convoluted, which I think many books today fall prey too. I was not expecting the ending and am very excited to see where the rest of the story goes.
I did take off one star for the balance of the book, with this book being only 276 pages I wish the journey portion of the book would have started sooner. I understand world building is important but felt the beginning of the book a little top heavy. I would still highly recommend giving this a read!
I did take off one star for the balance of the book, with this book being only 276 pages I wish the journey portion of the book would have started sooner. I understand world building is important but felt the beginning of the book a little top heavy. I would still highly recommend giving this a read!
March 30, 2025
This was an easy fantasy read. It was a good book to read when taking a break from big, extreme world building fantasy series. It was a fast paced story but not that fast to where you don't get enough depth in the story. It took me a sec to understand the magic structure, so I do wish it had a glossary or something similar so that I could go back if I forget about the magic structure or the gods.
I was definitely hooked by the end of the book that the end had me shocked. I was not expecting the twists at the end. This is book 1 and I will be reading book 2 to see what happens to the characters. Specially after that ending.
I was definitely hooked by the end of the book that the end had me shocked. I was not expecting the twists at the end. This is book 1 and I will be reading book 2 to see what happens to the characters. Specially after that ending.
December 26, 2023
Loved, loved, LOVED reading this book. A completely unique fantasy world created that was easy to read and easy to get immersed in. Very great read for anyone new to the fantasy world by making it simple to understand while also keeping character depth and the story interesting. The book is very fast paced and easy to engage in from the beginning!
Very much an all ages book. I would have loved more action between the main battle scenes, they ended too quickly.
I am very excited to know what comes next here! 10/10 recommend.
Very much an all ages book. I would have loved more action between the main battle scenes, they ended too quickly.
I am very excited to know what comes next here! 10/10 recommend.
March 5, 2024
All hail JoAnna McSpadden!! As a debut author, she gives other fantasy authors a run for their money in her first book, Obsidian Tide.
As a deadly disease begins to wreak havoc in the heart of the kingdom, a mismatched pack will set out to find a way to stop it. But as they get closer to the answers, they uncover that is far more malicious than they could have ever imagined.
With characters you'll swoon over, adventures you'll get hooked on, and magic that delivers pure mystery, Obsidian Tide brings you into a world with fun and intensity on each page.
And you'll love every second!
As a deadly disease begins to wreak havoc in the heart of the kingdom, a mismatched pack will set out to find a way to stop it. But as they get closer to the answers, they uncover that is far more malicious than they could have ever imagined.
With characters you'll swoon over, adventures you'll get hooked on, and magic that delivers pure mystery, Obsidian Tide brings you into a world with fun and intensity on each page.
And you'll love every second!
February 5, 2024
I really enjoyed Obsidian Tide and can’t wait for the next book in the series :) If I’m being completely honest, fantasy isn’t usually my genre but I decided to give it a try and now I’m craving more! I really got into it and it started getting hard for me to put the book down at night. JoAnna has such a creative way of building a world that makes you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters. I wish I didn’t have to wait to find out what happens next!
September 22, 2024
This book drew me in from its first page and truly got better and better the more I read. I haven’t read a fantasy book in a while and really loved getting to know the worlds presented by McSpadden. The characters are worth getting to know and very much make you wonder if you’re seeing all there is to them (meaning, the complexity makes for an interesting read!). I’m so looking forward to reading the next book in this series. Thanks for a great escape, JoAnna!
January 15, 2024
If you prefer to have adventure in the forefront of your reading experience with lesser emphasis on romance, this book is for you! McSpadden has created a truly original world with interesting magic origins, beings, religions, and politics. This story has the makings for an interesting and enthralling series. I am looking forward to discovering more about the world this author has created.
March 6, 2025
I definitely hated that ending but I’m so glad I don’t have to wait as long for the next book. The relationships in this books honestly confused me because they operated in such an odd way than normal people. I definitely am interested in seeing what happens to Liam. I’m a huge Liam and Elyria shipper though and need more of them in the next book.
February 16, 2024
I was hooked on this book from the beginning. JoAnna McSpadden creates such an amazing world that you can dive into and get lost in. I was so invested in the characters and I had to know what happened next! I can't wait until I can get my hands on the next one in the series!
June 22, 2024
This story is magical. You will feel every emotion and relate to the characters in so many different levels as you learn more about them and they become more whole and more real. Just when you think you know how things are going to go... JUST KIDDING HERES A HUGE LOOP.
April 3, 2025
I love a good book/series where I can't predict what's going to happen, and this was perfect! The ending of this boook..... ahh, I need book 2, immediately!!!
Anthony tho... I was kinda low-key hoping he would become Garrick food. Just saying. He's really annoying 🤣🤣
Anthony tho... I was kinda low-key hoping he would become Garrick food. Just saying. He's really annoying 🤣🤣
January 1, 2024
Such an amazing book! The fastest I’ve ever read a book, I just could not put it down. You’ll find yourself saying “okay, just one more chapter” every time you pick this book up!
April 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It reminded me of older fantasy books that are able to capture that magical feeling that transports you somewhere. Can’t wait for the next one.
April 29, 2025
I loved everything about this book! The character development was great. I loved the details, the tension between them, and the magic. This is definitely one of my favorite reads this year.
December 1, 2025
When I tell you the ending had my jaw dropping…. Anxiously awaiting the release of the 2nd 😅🙃
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews