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Realm of Istmere #1
When Storms Awaken
When Storms Awaken is a magic-packed debut from Michelle Frohman—the beginning of a paranormal romance and fantasy series filled with hidden truths, second chances, and dark secrets.
Secrets. Magic. Betrayal.
Diana Barnes has simple goals for senior year: keep her head down, graduate, and make it out alive. But strange things are happening around Silver Oaks. Between the giant wolf with human-like eyes stalking her and the unexplainable powers that randomly appear—lying low proves difficult.
The only one who seems to have the answers is Nik, the new transfer in school. Though he’s handsome beyond belief, his arrogant attitude leaves much to be desired. Unfortunately, they’ll have to work together if she has any hope of taming her newfound abilities.
When Diana finds out she is a Stormshade, a rare type of witch with elemental powers, her world will be changed forever.
But seeking the truth may spark a decades-old war already on the brink of reignition. In this world of magic and intrigue, secrets linger around every corner. Loyalties will be tested, and Diana will have to decide who she can trust. Only—the wrong choice could cost Diana her life.
I was a Stormshade, and I was powerful.
Secrets. Magic. Betrayal.
Diana Barnes has simple goals for senior year: keep her head down, graduate, and make it out alive. But strange things are happening around Silver Oaks. Between the giant wolf with human-like eyes stalking her and the unexplainable powers that randomly appear—lying low proves difficult.
The only one who seems to have the answers is Nik, the new transfer in school. Though he’s handsome beyond belief, his arrogant attitude leaves much to be desired. Unfortunately, they’ll have to work together if she has any hope of taming her newfound abilities.
When Diana finds out she is a Stormshade, a rare type of witch with elemental powers, her world will be changed forever.
But seeking the truth may spark a decades-old war already on the brink of reignition. In this world of magic and intrigue, secrets linger around every corner. Loyalties will be tested, and Diana will have to decide who she can trust. Only—the wrong choice could cost Diana her life.
I was a Stormshade, and I was powerful.
421 pages, Paperback
Published November 7, 2023
255 people are currently reading
1785 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Frohman
5 books25 followersMichelle Frohman is a writer, avid reader, and devoted animal lover with a passion for crafting captivating fantasy and paranormal romance tales.
She resides in New England with her three beloved cats—Kasha, the spicy one; Kiwi, the sensitive one; and Peach, the fluffy one—who provide endless inspiration (and occasional keyboard interference).
When she’s not lost in a book or writing her next novel, she can be found indulging in her love for interior design, riding horses, or drinking an arguably excessive amount of peach tea.
She resides in New England with her three beloved cats—Kasha, the spicy one; Kiwi, the sensitive one; and Peach, the fluffy one—who provide endless inspiration (and occasional keyboard interference).
When she’s not lost in a book or writing her next novel, she can be found indulging in her love for interior design, riding horses, or drinking an arguably excessive amount of peach tea.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 24, 2023
DNF at pg 103. What in the 2012 wattpad story is this? You’ve got your flannel wearing, book reading, not like other girls fmc x new kid at school, who wears all black and a leather jacket always AND who literally refers to himself as ‘a bad boy’ AND who coincidentally has the same ‘piercing blue eyes’ as the giant wolf the fmc saw in the woods a few days before.
13 year old me would have ate this right up.
It’s on kindle unlimited & the writing is decent but the storyline & characters are just too much of a cliche for me..💫
13 year old me would have ate this right up.
It’s on kindle unlimited & the writing is decent but the storyline & characters are just too much of a cliche for me..💫
November 9, 2023
—————ARC REVIEW————-
Rating: 4 1/2 ⭐️
Beyond excited to have received When Storms Awaken as an ARC from debut author Michelle Frohman.
Synopsis: This is a fantastic coming of age story that follows our FMC Dianna, an average high school student who also happens to be a rare Storm shade witch in the midst of learning to control her own power. With the witches at war will Dianna be able to remain hidden and learn to control her powers?
(*Side note* I really don’t want to give too much of this story away so my synopsis is brief however, this is one I feel like you should just blind dive into!)
Thoughts: First of all I have to say I really enjoyed this one, if that wasn’t obvious already 😂! I was immediately pulled in by Froman’s world building and characters. The author did a fantastic job of creating a digestible yet detailed start to this series. I will definitely be returning for book 2 my friends.
Diana is in an incredible FMC and I found myself rooting for her from the get go, I love a strong FMC and Diana is just that. I found the entire storyline unique like I just inhaled a breath of fresh air and don’t we love when that happens y’all?! Also I have to say I think Nik (MMC) may be a new book boy crush of mine and I can’t wait to see where that goes…waiting on a slow burn is just the worst …in the best way🔥 👀
*This is the first book in the Realm of Istmere series
If you love Magic, witches, morally grey men and one insane cliffhanger this one’s for you my romantasy friends!
Rating: 4 1/2 ⭐️
Beyond excited to have received When Storms Awaken as an ARC from debut author Michelle Frohman.
Synopsis: This is a fantastic coming of age story that follows our FMC Dianna, an average high school student who also happens to be a rare Storm shade witch in the midst of learning to control her own power. With the witches at war will Dianna be able to remain hidden and learn to control her powers?
(*Side note* I really don’t want to give too much of this story away so my synopsis is brief however, this is one I feel like you should just blind dive into!)
Thoughts: First of all I have to say I really enjoyed this one, if that wasn’t obvious already 😂! I was immediately pulled in by Froman’s world building and characters. The author did a fantastic job of creating a digestible yet detailed start to this series. I will definitely be returning for book 2 my friends.
Diana is in an incredible FMC and I found myself rooting for her from the get go, I love a strong FMC and Diana is just that. I found the entire storyline unique like I just inhaled a breath of fresh air and don’t we love when that happens y’all?! Also I have to say I think Nik (MMC) may be a new book boy crush of mine and I can’t wait to see where that goes…waiting on a slow burn is just the worst …in the best way🔥 👀
*This is the first book in the Realm of Istmere series
If you love Magic, witches, morally grey men and one insane cliffhanger this one’s for you my romantasy friends!
September 25, 2023
Okay I was so lucky to have had the opportunity to ARC read this. It took me a bit to finish it however I do have to say it’s definitely a 10/10.
I love Diana’s character arc she’s definitely a strong character I found myself really relating to and loving. She’s so fierce and headstrong However I have so much love for Tess. She’s amazing in so many ways.
Nik is obviously my favorite guy and I am so happy to have found another book husband.
This book definitely gives off Hush, Hush mixed with The Secret Circle vibes. I freaking loved it.
The story and character building was incredible and that twist at the end has me needing book two ASAP.
If you haven’t gotten the chance to read it I highly suggest you do so. ❤️❤️❤️
I love Diana’s character arc she’s definitely a strong character I found myself really relating to and loving. She’s so fierce and headstrong However I have so much love for Tess. She’s amazing in so many ways.
Nik is obviously my favorite guy and I am so happy to have found another book husband.
This book definitely gives off Hush, Hush mixed with The Secret Circle vibes. I freaking loved it.
The story and character building was incredible and that twist at the end has me needing book two ASAP.
If you haven’t gotten the chance to read it I highly suggest you do so. ❤️❤️❤️
June 3, 2025
⭐️3.5 Solid start to a series! The magic system is cool, the tension between characters is everything, and the plot had me flipping pages way too late at night. If you love slow burns, a little enemies-to-lovers energy, and an easy and quick book back into fantasy this is for you! Book 3 drops June 17th!
October 12, 2025
I’ve read wattpad books better than this dumpster fire
October 8, 2023
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
Spice: 🌶️/5
Release Date: 11.7.23
This was another great beginner fantasy read that was different from some of the other ones I’ve read!
The world building is not overly complex, which makes it great for someone just getting into the fantasy genre, but it’s also unique enough that it makes it enjoyable for those who have read multiple fantasy books.
The world revolves around 3 types of witches: Nightshades, Stormshades, and Shades, who are at war and hunted by each other. Because of this, many witches have fled to the mortal realm, where we meet our FMC, Diana. Diana finds out she is a stormshade witch, most of which have been extinguished, and must learn to control her magic, while remaining hidden from the Nightshade witches. But let’s not forget our super flirty, morally grey, protective, powerful Nightshade MMC, Nik. I love when the MMC is an incorrigible flirt.
The story is a super quick read that takes you back and forth between the mortal realm and the witch realm, and ends on a wild reveal and cliffhanger! I haven’t read a ton of witch fantasy books, but I thought the idea behind the stormshades was super creative and interesting! I cannot wait to see how the story progresses!
Spice: 🌶️/5
Release Date: 11.7.23
This was another great beginner fantasy read that was different from some of the other ones I’ve read!
The world building is not overly complex, which makes it great for someone just getting into the fantasy genre, but it’s also unique enough that it makes it enjoyable for those who have read multiple fantasy books.
The world revolves around 3 types of witches: Nightshades, Stormshades, and Shades, who are at war and hunted by each other. Because of this, many witches have fled to the mortal realm, where we meet our FMC, Diana. Diana finds out she is a stormshade witch, most of which have been extinguished, and must learn to control her magic, while remaining hidden from the Nightshade witches. But let’s not forget our super flirty, morally grey, protective, powerful Nightshade MMC, Nik. I love when the MMC is an incorrigible flirt.
The story is a super quick read that takes you back and forth between the mortal realm and the witch realm, and ends on a wild reveal and cliffhanger! I haven’t read a ton of witch fantasy books, but I thought the idea behind the stormshades was super creative and interesting! I cannot wait to see how the story progresses!
November 7, 2023
When Storms Awaken, A Realm of Istmere Novel introduces us to a world of magic and witches that is intertwined with our very own. In author Michelle Frohman’s debut novel, she immediately grabs your attention in the prologue. You’re pulled right into Istmere and teased with a story of magic, love, war, and betrayal. It makes you eager to learn more about what just happened and gets you excited to start this story.
From there, the story brings us to the familiar world of our own as we’re introduced to Diana, a typical teenage girl just making her way through her senior year of high school. A simple walk in the woods begins a snowball effect that intertwines Diana’s world with the realm of Istmere, leading to her own magical awakening. While the discovery of her powers and the budding romance with the new kid in school are exciting changes to her life, Diana soon learns about the dark history of Istmere and the rarity of her powers. She must keep them a secret and instill her trust in someone she just met to keep her and her loved ones safe.
The author does an excellent job world building for the reader. As the story is told through the eyes of Diana, we learn about magic and Istmere as she does. Her questions are our questions. The slow leaks of knowledge about Istmere, its dark history, the new kid in school Nik, and the secrets surrounding Diana’s powers leave the reader eager to learn more and keep on reading. The author does a great job leaving some clues along the way that subtly hint at what happens next, rewarding those paying close attention. Every reveal makes sense to the story being told and nothing was written in just for the sake of having a plot twist. The level of detail is the perfect balance of taking the time to paint the picture, but not so much that it’s dragged out to the point where the reader loses interest.
The author does a great job at fleshing out the main character and keeps her grounded. Even as Diana is discovering that she is a powerful stormshade, she still has homework and chores to do. The build up of her daily routine of school and everything involved in the life of a teenager does not get lost in the main plot. The author doesn’t lose site of the fact that the story, at its core, it is a coming of age tale of a teenage girl who’s trying to find her way in this world.
When Storms Awaken is an exciting introduction into a brand new world and an excellent debut novel for author Michelle Frohman. If you enjoy fantasy, romance, and Y.A. books, you will love this story. Michelle sets the stage for more to come and I personally cannot wait for what she has in store for us in Book II!
From there, the story brings us to the familiar world of our own as we’re introduced to Diana, a typical teenage girl just making her way through her senior year of high school. A simple walk in the woods begins a snowball effect that intertwines Diana’s world with the realm of Istmere, leading to her own magical awakening. While the discovery of her powers and the budding romance with the new kid in school are exciting changes to her life, Diana soon learns about the dark history of Istmere and the rarity of her powers. She must keep them a secret and instill her trust in someone she just met to keep her and her loved ones safe.
The author does an excellent job world building for the reader. As the story is told through the eyes of Diana, we learn about magic and Istmere as she does. Her questions are our questions. The slow leaks of knowledge about Istmere, its dark history, the new kid in school Nik, and the secrets surrounding Diana’s powers leave the reader eager to learn more and keep on reading. The author does a great job leaving some clues along the way that subtly hint at what happens next, rewarding those paying close attention. Every reveal makes sense to the story being told and nothing was written in just for the sake of having a plot twist. The level of detail is the perfect balance of taking the time to paint the picture, but not so much that it’s dragged out to the point where the reader loses interest.
The author does a great job at fleshing out the main character and keeps her grounded. Even as Diana is discovering that she is a powerful stormshade, she still has homework and chores to do. The build up of her daily routine of school and everything involved in the life of a teenager does not get lost in the main plot. The author doesn’t lose site of the fact that the story, at its core, it is a coming of age tale of a teenage girl who’s trying to find her way in this world.
When Storms Awaken is an exciting introduction into a brand new world and an excellent debut novel for author Michelle Frohman. If you enjoy fantasy, romance, and Y.A. books, you will love this story. Michelle sets the stage for more to come and I personally cannot wait for what she has in store for us in Book II!
December 26, 2023
📖𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺•𝚁𝙴𝚅𝙸𝙴𝚆📖
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
📚💜𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦💜📚
⚡️𝚆𝙷𝙴𝙽 𝚂𝚃𝙾𝚁𝙼𝚂 𝙰𝚆𝙰𝙺𝙴𝙽 𝙱𝚈 𝙼𝙸𝙲𝙷𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙴 𝙵𝚁𝙾𝙷𝙼𝙰𝙽
⚡️𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚁𝙴𝙰𝙻𝙼 𝙾𝙵 𝙸𝚂𝚃𝙼𝙴𝚁𝙴 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
⚡️𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝙿𝙰𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙾𝚁𝙼𝙰𝙻 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴; 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈
⚡️𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟽𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹 - 𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙽𝙾𝚆 & 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄!🎉
⚡️𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
♡︎☆༻༺✩༻༺☆♡︎
Thank you so much to Michelle Frohman for my gifted eARC of 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐍!
This was a really enjoyable witchy and magical Romantasy read! This story follows our FMC, Diana, as she discovers she is a Stormshade witch with elemental powers. I love Diana as a FMC and I loved her character growth in this book. She’s headstrong and fierce and I definitely was rooting for her from the very first page. She is really easy to connect with and relate to. Our MMC, Nik, is super swoon-worthy and morally grey and I loved their chemistry! The slow burn romance is real in this one but I loved every second of the tension and angst!
I thought Michelle did a fantastic job with the world building in this story. It wasn’t over-complicated or info-dumpy and I thought it blended into the plot of the book seamlessly. I loved the little hint of mystery we get in the story, and it kept me super engaged as I was reading. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming and the ending has me really excited for the next book!
Overall, I definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for a fantasy/paranormal romance with witchy vibes and slow burn, enemies to lovers romance!
✨𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲...✨
⚡️Enemies to Lovers
💜Secret Heir
⚡️Hidden Truths
💜Second Chances
⚡️Forced Proximity
💜One Bed
⚡️Slow Burn
💜Dark Secrets
⚡️Revenge
💜Touch Her & Die
♡︎☆༻༺✩༻༺☆♡︎
☆༻༺✩༻༺☆
📚💜𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞•𝗗𝗘𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗟𝗦💜📚
⚡️𝚆𝙷𝙴𝙽 𝚂𝚃𝙾𝚁𝙼𝚂 𝙰𝚆𝙰𝙺𝙴𝙽 𝙱𝚈 𝙼𝙸𝙲𝙷𝙴𝙻𝙻𝙴 𝙵𝚁𝙾𝙷𝙼𝙰𝙽
⚡️𝙱𝙾𝙾𝙺 𝟷 𝙸𝙽 𝚃𝙷𝙴 𝚁𝙴𝙰𝙻𝙼 𝙾𝙵 𝙸𝚂𝚃𝙼𝙴𝚁𝙴 𝚂𝙴𝚁𝙸𝙴𝚂
⚡️𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: 𝙿𝙰𝚁𝙰𝙽𝙾𝚁𝙼𝙰𝙻 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴; 𝙵𝙰𝙽𝚃𝙰𝚂𝚈
⚡️𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐒𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄: 𝙽𝙾𝚅𝙴𝙼𝙱𝙴𝚁 𝟽𝚃𝙷, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹 - 𝙰𝚅𝙰𝙸𝙻𝙰𝙱𝙻𝙴 𝙽𝙾𝚆 & 𝙾𝙽 𝙺𝚄!🎉
⚡️𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ || 𝟻
♡︎☆༻༺✩༻༺☆♡︎
Thank you so much to Michelle Frohman for my gifted eARC of 𝐖𝐇𝐄𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐍!
This was a really enjoyable witchy and magical Romantasy read! This story follows our FMC, Diana, as she discovers she is a Stormshade witch with elemental powers. I love Diana as a FMC and I loved her character growth in this book. She’s headstrong and fierce and I definitely was rooting for her from the very first page. She is really easy to connect with and relate to. Our MMC, Nik, is super swoon-worthy and morally grey and I loved their chemistry! The slow burn romance is real in this one but I loved every second of the tension and angst!
I thought Michelle did a fantastic job with the world building in this story. It wasn’t over-complicated or info-dumpy and I thought it blended into the plot of the book seamlessly. I loved the little hint of mystery we get in the story, and it kept me super engaged as I was reading. There were twists and turns I didn’t see coming and the ending has me really excited for the next book!
Overall, I definitely recommend this one if you’re looking for a fantasy/paranormal romance with witchy vibes and slow burn, enemies to lovers romance!
✨𝗬𝗼𝘂’𝗹𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲...✨
⚡️Enemies to Lovers
💜Secret Heir
⚡️Hidden Truths
💜Second Chances
⚡️Forced Proximity
💜One Bed
⚡️Slow Burn
💜Dark Secrets
⚡️Revenge
💜Touch Her & Die
♡︎☆༻༺✩༻༺☆♡︎
October 7, 2023
Despite my initial challenges during the writing of this review, I am happy to report that overall, I was truly captivated by this book!
The imagery that Michelle Frohman provided was something I haven't experienced in quite sometime. I found myself going back to re-read a previous page because I was so sucked in with imagining the surroundings, my brain felt like it hiccupped. This isn't a bad thing at all. I think what I enjoyed most about this book is that Michelle added a lot of little details, that at first (personally) was kind of annoying, but once I was done reading, I realized that she hid a lot of foreshadowing, that really doesn't come to light until you reach the final chapters.
Our main character Diana Barnes, is an average teenage girl that keeps her head down and just wants to graduate high school. She has one best friend that she's be stuck to the hip of since her family first moved to Silver Oaks, just 4 years earlier, and really doesn't think of herself as special. However, all that changes when she encounters a giant wolf with human like piercing blue eyes, in the mountains that overlook her small town. She starts dreaming of a strange world and something inside of her stirs awake. Even more strange things start to happen when a new kid arrives at school leading her to uncover a family secret that she's not even sure where to begin to understand what it means for her past, present, and future, let alone who she can trust.
In an effort to not give too much away, I just think that you should read this book. It's an experience in itself and it really leaves you wanting more. Thankfully, this is only the first book of the Realm of Istmere.
The imagery that Michelle Frohman provided was something I haven't experienced in quite sometime. I found myself going back to re-read a previous page because I was so sucked in with imagining the surroundings, my brain felt like it hiccupped. This isn't a bad thing at all. I think what I enjoyed most about this book is that Michelle added a lot of little details, that at first (personally) was kind of annoying, but once I was done reading, I realized that she hid a lot of foreshadowing, that really doesn't come to light until you reach the final chapters.
Our main character Diana Barnes, is an average teenage girl that keeps her head down and just wants to graduate high school. She has one best friend that she's be stuck to the hip of since her family first moved to Silver Oaks, just 4 years earlier, and really doesn't think of herself as special. However, all that changes when she encounters a giant wolf with human like piercing blue eyes, in the mountains that overlook her small town. She starts dreaming of a strange world and something inside of her stirs awake. Even more strange things start to happen when a new kid arrives at school leading her to uncover a family secret that she's not even sure where to begin to understand what it means for her past, present, and future, let alone who she can trust.
In an effort to not give too much away, I just think that you should read this book. It's an experience in itself and it really leaves you wanting more. Thankfully, this is only the first book of the Realm of Istmere.
May 28, 2025
What a cool debut novel to kick off a trilogy!
Our main girl Diana is a normal girl in her last year of Highschool who has always loved to read and live in imaginary worlds. But when Nic transfers to her school and she runs into a huge wolf in the woods, strange things start to happen.
As advertised this novel starts out feeling like a YA, but gets really intense and dark really fast. Our fmc is along for the ride and has to lead and grow quickly to keep up. In all of this she remains likable and a very believable teenager who is smitten with a boy she has always known is one of the bad boys….
There are quite a few reveals that are teased at earlier. As an experienced Fantasy reader they are easily to guess, but seeing if I was right was still satisfying 😃
The book ends of a big reveal/cliffhanger. I am glad I can continue with book 2 right away because the story has only just begun
⚠️ One fair warning: there is a steamier scene. I would personally not let my teenage daughter read this. Just be aware of that 😜
Our main girl Diana is a normal girl in her last year of Highschool who has always loved to read and live in imaginary worlds. But when Nic transfers to her school and she runs into a huge wolf in the woods, strange things start to happen.
As advertised this novel starts out feeling like a YA, but gets really intense and dark really fast. Our fmc is along for the ride and has to lead and grow quickly to keep up. In all of this she remains likable and a very believable teenager who is smitten with a boy she has always known is one of the bad boys….
There are quite a few reveals that are teased at earlier. As an experienced Fantasy reader they are easily to guess, but seeing if I was right was still satisfying 😃
The book ends of a big reveal/cliffhanger. I am glad I can continue with book 2 right away because the story has only just begun
⚠️ One fair warning: there is a steamier scene. I would personally not let my teenage daughter read this. Just be aware of that 😜
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 7, 2023
First, I'd like to say I'm honored to be chosen as an ARC reader for Frohman's debut novel. It was a fun and enjoyable read!
The author captured high school perfectly--from the mundane routine of classes, to the social politics of senior year (do your work and get out!). Diana's naivete and unquestioning trust in her best friend and love interest doesn't falter, despite obvious hints to the reader something is amiss.
Plot-wise, the first installment was predictable and full of common tropes. I wasn't particularly thrilled with the ending. I thought it was less a cliffhanger and more a chapter ending, but that's for you to decide.
The prose is easy to read and at times repetitive or wordy. After a few chapters, I found myself skipping over large chunks of text because it had already been said in dialogue or exposition.
With all that being said, I think this book is a good introduction to the series. It sets the tone for the second book and readies the main characters' arcs for growth and development.
I look forward to reading the next book and following Diana on her journey from "teenagedom" into adulthood.
The author captured high school perfectly--from the mundane routine of classes, to the social politics of senior year (do your work and get out!). Diana's naivete and unquestioning trust in her best friend and love interest doesn't falter, despite obvious hints to the reader something is amiss.
Plot-wise, the first installment was predictable and full of common tropes. I wasn't particularly thrilled with the ending. I thought it was less a cliffhanger and more a chapter ending, but that's for you to decide.
The prose is easy to read and at times repetitive or wordy. After a few chapters, I found myself skipping over large chunks of text because it had already been said in dialogue or exposition.
With all that being said, I think this book is a good introduction to the series. It sets the tone for the second book and readies the main characters' arcs for growth and development.
I look forward to reading the next book and following Diana on her journey from "teenagedom" into adulthood.
October 31, 2023
ARC Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a solid start to what will hopefully be an intriguing series. I was missing certain elements in the build-up of the book. Certain plot points went from mystery to explained too fast and missed the mark for me.
Diana discovers strange happenings in town are actually connected to her, a Stormshade Witch. Her kind is thought to have been extinct, hunted down by Nightshade and Shade witches in wars past. She's introduced to a love interest, her best develops powers, and of course there is a betrayal to leave us with the cliffhanger.
I personally felt much of the plot was predictable and left me wanting more character development and deeper relationships. It felt like a very introductory, surface level story. I wanted more intricacy in the development. Overall I'm looking forward to what's next but certainly hope for more.
This is a solid start to what will hopefully be an intriguing series. I was missing certain elements in the build-up of the book. Certain plot points went from mystery to explained too fast and missed the mark for me.
Diana discovers strange happenings in town are actually connected to her, a Stormshade Witch. Her kind is thought to have been extinct, hunted down by Nightshade and Shade witches in wars past. She's introduced to a love interest, her best develops powers, and of course there is a betrayal to leave us with the cliffhanger.
I personally felt much of the plot was predictable and left me wanting more character development and deeper relationships. It felt like a very introductory, surface level story. I wanted more intricacy in the development. Overall I'm looking forward to what's next but certainly hope for more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed! I read a lot of fantasy, and this one felt fresh and new to me- probably because the level of detail that made it feel like you were diving into Diana’s world. You really become invested in her growth as she discovers her magic and confidence. It brought me right back to being 18 and senior year! So easy to connect, but Tess is the sleeper character that I found myself loving.
Hints of mystery kept me hooked the whole read. Plus the minute you add in a complicated, slow burn (but not too slow!) romance I’m officially hooked. Nik is the bad boy you can’t help but love.The ending left me literally screaming- like put the book down and took a second to scream “what?!”. The build up towards the end will have you turning pages quickly! Goes without saying that I cannot wait for book 2!
Hints of mystery kept me hooked the whole read. Plus the minute you add in a complicated, slow burn (but not too slow!) romance I’m officially hooked. Nik is the bad boy you can’t help but love.The ending left me literally screaming- like put the book down and took a second to scream “what?!”. The build up towards the end will have you turning pages quickly! Goes without saying that I cannot wait for book 2!
November 21, 2023
Thanks to Michelle Frohman for sending me an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I had a better review written but my phone crashed and I lost it, so I’m just redoing in point form.
The good:
- beautiful cover
- Interesting premise
- Intriguing bad boy love interest
The not so good:
- I felt like the plot was “served up” too easily - there was no time to wonder about anything, everything just happened immediately
- The story is 1st person which I like, but felt that too much of the FMC’s inner dialogue was delivered through a stream of questions she had about what was going on. It happened too many times throughout the book for me.
- I didn’t really understand the antagonist’s motivation
I think this book would appeal more to a younger audience (15-18), as there was a lot of talk about homework, classes, and being afraid of getting in trouble from parents. There was one mild on page steamy scene.
I was bummed this one wasn’t for me. You may enjoy it if you like witches, modern fantasy, and uncovering a mystery
I had a better review written but my phone crashed and I lost it, so I’m just redoing in point form.
The good:
- beautiful cover
- Interesting premise
- Intriguing bad boy love interest
The not so good:
- I felt like the plot was “served up” too easily - there was no time to wonder about anything, everything just happened immediately
- The story is 1st person which I like, but felt that too much of the FMC’s inner dialogue was delivered through a stream of questions she had about what was going on. It happened too many times throughout the book for me.
- I didn’t really understand the antagonist’s motivation
I think this book would appeal more to a younger audience (15-18), as there was a lot of talk about homework, classes, and being afraid of getting in trouble from parents. There was one mild on page steamy scene.
I was bummed this one wasn’t for me. You may enjoy it if you like witches, modern fantasy, and uncovering a mystery
November 14, 2023
Fresh take on a witchy romantasy world! This book introduces us to a world of magic and witches that is tied to ours. Diana is just trying to get through senior year when the world as she knows it completely changes and she discovers that she is a witch. When a mysterious transfer student, Nik, shows up, things get even more complicated. The plot was a little predictable for me but I still enjoyed the author's unique world that was created and the history of Istmere. This book did read more YA than NA to me but I overall felt like it fit with the age of the characters. I am excited to see how Diana matures and grows into her powers in book two and the continuation of the series!
I was provided an arc and this is my honest review.
I was provided an arc and this is my honest review.
May 24, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! The process of how Diana & Nikolai met & got to know each other is not only so cute, but emotional as well. I’ve mentioned this in another review for another one of Michelle Frohman’s books (When Storms Collide), but her talent for getting her readers emotionally invested in her characters and storylines is amazing and one of a kind. You truly enjoy reading Diana & Nikolai’s story, and finishing this book made me super excited to read book two, which thankfully I got to read right away! There are times where you have no idea what’s going to happen next, and this is another thing I love about Michelle Frohman’s work— she always keeps you engaged & interested. Thank you Michelle!
October 23, 2023
Wow! I went into this book completely blind. From the first page I could tell it was going to be a amazing book, and I was not wrong. The world building was immaculate. The characters were fascinating. The story instantly consumes you. I found myself losing track of time while reading this book, unable to put it down. I cannot say how excited I will be for the next book in this series. I am hooked!
This NA Fantasy romance will pull you in until the last page.
The FMC, and MMC intense slow burn whirlwind relationship is intoxicating.
The world building has you living along side the characters with ease.
The story is constantly giving you more while not being overwhelming. Always giving you just enough to keep you guessing, and wanting more.
This NA Fantasy romance will pull you in until the last page.
The FMC, and MMC intense slow burn whirlwind relationship is intoxicating.
The world building has you living along side the characters with ease.
The story is constantly giving you more while not being overwhelming. Always giving you just enough to keep you guessing, and wanting more.
November 21, 2023
ARC Review:
4.5 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
The beginning grabs your attention being action packed! Although going from that epic attention grabber it had a period of time where it was a bit of world building that lost my interest just a bit since it felt like we were running around trying to find out a secret that was being hidden from out FMC. But she kept dropping scenes that would keep me going and by the end I couldn't put it down my jaw dropped from the PLOT TWISTS! The slow burn is SLOWWWWWW but I'm definitely excited the way this book ended has definitely set the stage for the next book to be amazing!
I'd recommend giving it a read!
4.5 ⭐️ 1 🌶️
The beginning grabs your attention being action packed! Although going from that epic attention grabber it had a period of time where it was a bit of world building that lost my interest just a bit since it felt like we were running around trying to find out a secret that was being hidden from out FMC. But she kept dropping scenes that would keep me going and by the end I couldn't put it down my jaw dropped from the PLOT TWISTS! The slow burn is SLOWWWWWW but I'm definitely excited the way this book ended has definitely set the stage for the next book to be amazing!
I'd recommend giving it a read!
August 26, 2024
I loved this book! Diana is one of the most relatable fmc I’ve read in a long time. The dynamic between her and Tess is so comforting to see because that’s how my best friend and I are, and I hardly ever see that dynamic in a book. And can we take a second to talk about that slow burn and the angst between Diana and Nik? Gosh dang! I just kept wishing they would get together already!!
Overall, I throughly enjoyed this book. It was a little slower paced for me, but that could have just been because of how long it took me to actually sit down and read. If you’re looking for a good intro book to fantasy, I highly recommend you start here!
Overall, I throughly enjoyed this book. It was a little slower paced for me, but that could have just been because of how long it took me to actually sit down and read. If you’re looking for a good intro book to fantasy, I highly recommend you start here!
October 25, 2025
I absolutely loved the modern take on this witchy saga 💜
Diana is a high school senior who doesn't know she's a witch - a very powerful Stormshade witch 🖤
and then she meets our super hot, flirty, morally grey, protective and powerful Nightshade witch MMC Nik and sparks fly in more ways than one 🩶
The world building and magic system is easy to follow.
This is a story of magic, love, war and betrayal and should definitely be added to your TBR 💜
I was lucky enough to receive the audio ALC and the narration by Laura Horowitz is perfection 💜
Thank you Michelle Frohman for such a great book... I'm off to read the next one in the series 🥳
Diana is a high school senior who doesn't know she's a witch - a very powerful Stormshade witch 🖤
and then she meets our super hot, flirty, morally grey, protective and powerful Nightshade witch MMC Nik and sparks fly in more ways than one 🩶
The world building and magic system is easy to follow.
This is a story of magic, love, war and betrayal and should definitely be added to your TBR 💜
I was lucky enough to receive the audio ALC and the narration by Laura Horowitz is perfection 💜
Thank you Michelle Frohman for such a great book... I'm off to read the next one in the series 🥳
October 24, 2023
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5
🌶️ / 5
It was a bit slow, I guess it was because I haven’t read a high school fantasy setting in a while
There were a few things that I considered cheesy or cliche, at least for my taste
But the ending? God it just let me wanting to know what it’s going to happen in the next book. I did expect part of the plot twist, but I was way better is I picture it and a true cliffhanger
The magical system is simple and easy to follow, so I find it as a great way to get into fantasy
So apart for those bits I found tired, it was a light, fast, short and really enjoyable reading
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 / 5
🌶️ / 5
It was a bit slow, I guess it was because I haven’t read a high school fantasy setting in a while
There were a few things that I considered cheesy or cliche, at least for my taste
But the ending? God it just let me wanting to know what it’s going to happen in the next book. I did expect part of the plot twist, but I was way better is I picture it and a true cliffhanger
The magical system is simple and easy to follow, so I find it as a great way to get into fantasy
So apart for those bits I found tired, it was a light, fast, short and really enjoyable reading
August 6, 2024
😳😳😳😳
Holy crud! My heart is in my throat.
I really liked this book. The perfect mix of magic, romance, & twists and turns. I especially loved that every time I thought I had something figured out, it took a spin. I was second guessing EVERYTHING by the end!
Diana was a normal teenager; just living her life and trying to get through high school. When she meets Nik, her life is turned upside down - and it turns out she isn’t so normal after all.
A little “twilight-esque” but I am not mad about that at all.
📖ebook
Holy crud! My heart is in my throat.
I really liked this book. The perfect mix of magic, romance, & twists and turns. I especially loved that every time I thought I had something figured out, it took a spin. I was second guessing EVERYTHING by the end!
Diana was a normal teenager; just living her life and trying to get through high school. When she meets Nik, her life is turned upside down - and it turns out she isn’t so normal after all.
A little “twilight-esque” but I am not mad about that at all.
📖ebook
May 19, 2025
I really like the story and plot. Firstly I think the plot is quite typical but it still entertains me as I'm sat in 2 hours and boom already halfway through the book. Give another 2 hours and boom finish. It's been a while since I read a book that made me sink in that world. At first I wanted to give this book a solid 4 ⭐ buuuutttt, the plot twist???! and the ending???! make through to the 5 ⭐ reads. I really enjoyed the book and I'm not expecting the end to be like that. Gonna read the next book as soon as possible.
May 20, 2025
When storms awaken is a paranormale romance and fantasy. The book introduced you to a world of magic and witches intertwined with our own world. As the story is told through the eyes of Diana we learn of the world just like her. You can easily find yourself relating to her and loving every moment.
The author leaves some clues that subtly hinted at what might happen next. The author has done a amazing job at writing a detailed start of the serie.
If you love magic, witches and mortally grey men. Then this book is definitely worth reading.
The author leaves some clues that subtly hinted at what might happen next. The author has done a amazing job at writing a detailed start of the serie.
If you love magic, witches and mortally grey men. Then this book is definitely worth reading.
September 28, 2023
I LOVED reading this book!
Witch’s, magic, realms - I’m in!
While reading the first quarter of this book, I was trying to work out where it was going to go, and as it slowly started to unravel, it didn’t disappoint.
Getting a real feel for the characters. I love our FMC and her BF, they are both head strong girls, who I think will grow and grow in book 2!
That little twist at the end as well? I need book 2 now please! 🖤
Witch’s, magic, realms - I’m in!
While reading the first quarter of this book, I was trying to work out where it was going to go, and as it slowly started to unravel, it didn’t disappoint.
Getting a real feel for the characters. I love our FMC and her BF, they are both head strong girls, who I think will grow and grow in book 2!
That little twist at the end as well? I need book 2 now please! 🖤
February 17, 2024
I truly WANTED to like this book, as I got it by supporting the author on kickstarter; however, it read like a Wattpad YA fanfiction, and not in a good way.
The writing isn’t bad, but the characters aren’t well developed, the “twists” feel like I saw them coming from miles ahead, and I just wasn’t invested in any of the story. I think I would have loved this in my early teenage years, but currently I did not have a great time with this one.
The writing isn’t bad, but the characters aren’t well developed, the “twists” feel like I saw them coming from miles ahead, and I just wasn’t invested in any of the story. I think I would have loved this in my early teenage years, but currently I did not have a great time with this one.
July 26, 2024
This book was so good from the beginning! I found myself looking forward to every chance I was able to pick it up. The details in this book were very good and kept your attention and had you anticipating what would happen next. I found this to be an easy to follow romantasy with a great mix of modern world and fantasy world. There were a few scenes that just seemed odd to me so I gave it a 4 ⭐️, but I am definitely looking forward to reading the next book in this series!
August 4, 2024
I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I don’t normally like high school age characters but I didn’t see the normal immaturity. There was innocence which was charming but also realistic attributes. The story itself is mysterious and exciting. There’s newfound magic, a sense of danger, a blooming love, friendship, loyalty as well as betrayal. I would recommend this book and can’t wait to read the next one!
October 15, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book and OB MY GOODNESS, it was so good!! I absolutely love the twists and turns in the story and the ending left me wanting more and more! I can’t believe it ended where it did. I need to know more!
If you want a witchy book with a fantastic plot and lots of twists and turns then this is definitely the book for you!
If you want a witchy book with a fantastic plot and lots of twists and turns then this is definitely the book for you!
October 19, 2023
Witches and magic! The world building was done fantastically. Even with the different types of witches and realms. Easy to follow and not confusing for first time fantasy readers, with just the perfect amount of romance. Beautifully written. Leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait to read the next one.
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