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Midnight with the Hexed
There’s a new witch on the block.
For Oakley Brooks, Celestial Haven’s newest resident can only spell one disaster.
With her magic replenished and gift reclaimed, she shifts her focus to relaunching her business and preparing for the coven’s highly anticipated Moonlit Masquerade.
But another disappearance threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb. With the neighborhood under more scrutiny than ever, Lynx and Saros get caught in the crossfire, forcing the pair to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret.
As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
And sometimes resurrecting the truth leads to deadly consequences.
Midnight with the Hexed is the second part of a supernatural MMF why choose paranormal romance duet set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. For readers looking for Practical Magic and Wednesday vibes with a splash of spice and a dash of mystery.
For Oakley Brooks, Celestial Haven’s newest resident can only spell one disaster.
With her magic replenished and gift reclaimed, she shifts her focus to relaunching her business and preparing for the coven’s highly anticipated Moonlit Masquerade.
But another disappearance threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb. With the neighborhood under more scrutiny than ever, Lynx and Saros get caught in the crossfire, forcing the pair to keep their relationship with Oakley a secret.
As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
And sometimes resurrecting the truth leads to deadly consequences.
Midnight with the Hexed is the second part of a supernatural MMF why choose paranormal romance duet set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest. For readers looking for Practical Magic and Wednesday vibes with a splash of spice and a dash of mystery.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2023
About the author
L.R. Friedman
10 books278 followersL.R. Friedman started writing in 2021 after spending a decade putting “write the book” on her five-year plan. Her first book published in August 2022.
The girl that grew up trying to find a hidden realm in her closet, she now spends her days curled up with a cup of coffee, playing matchmaker for her morally grey characters.
All of her stories include LGBTQ+ leads, mental health rep, and are set in worlds that are dark, sexy, and whimsical. Her immersive and character-driven stories are full of emotional healing and relatable characters, meant to both entertain and empower her readers.
She lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
The girl that grew up trying to find a hidden realm in her closet, she now spends her days curled up with a cup of coffee, playing matchmaker for her morally grey characters.
All of her stories include LGBTQ+ leads, mental health rep, and are set in worlds that are dark, sexy, and whimsical. Her immersive and character-driven stories are full of emotional healing and relatable characters, meant to both entertain and empower her readers.
She lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 352 reviews
September 21, 2024
There are so many things I gotta talk about.
1) Thank you to the author for sending me the earc! And sorry for reading and reviewing so late, th publishing date is on 21st while my exams starts on 20th.
2) WHAT DID I JUST READ??From 40 to 60% I was beging for action and then boom! I devoured the last part. The magic? The world building? THE EPILOGUE?? I dont know what to think of. I have been literally sobbing for the past few hours. I cant believe the plot twists. How that one character I thought was de villain is now suddenly my fave character and my precious angel Im sobbing.
3) The 5th book better come around quickly bc I cant stay alive like this. Is not a want, A NEED!!!
I swear I love the way L.R. Friedman writes.
1) Thank you to the author for sending me the earc! And sorry for reading and reviewing so late, th publishing date is on 21st while my exams starts on 20th.
2) WHAT DID I JUST READ??From 40 to 60% I was beging for action and then boom! I devoured the last part. The magic? The world building? THE EPILOGUE?? I dont know what to think of. I have been literally sobbing for the past few hours. I cant believe the plot twists. How that one character I thought was de villain is now suddenly my fave character and my precious angel Im sobbing.
3) The 5th book better come around quickly bc I cant stay alive like this. Is not a want, A NEED!!!
I swear I love the way L.R. Friedman writes.
March 8, 2023
Update my rating during my reread! Jan 2023
———-
I enjoyed entering this world! Descend is told in dual POV by Kyleigh and Aislin. This is great for fantasy lovers, those wanting to be introduced into New Adult.
I was super invested in Kyleigh's story. She starts off being a little bit childish but as time goes by I love her character development. Aislin was put to the test with Kyleigh, she definitely learned to have patience with people surrounding her. Being from two different worlds, Kyleigh from what could be defined as our world and Aislin being part of the realm of Celaria, these two were different. But this didnt stop them from growing and learning to work together. I love that!
The world building was beautiful, I loved so much of the detail the author puts in there. Not to say that it was overwhelming in any sense. Friedman gave us the perfect materials to build. With regards to the magic, I wish I would have learned more. I am a sucker for the beginning of things.. Hoping to see more of that in the next book, which I am super excited to read!
OK so I may be a bit obsessed with Ox and Dru, they were the perfect addition to this story. A lot of the development we see is because of them too!
Huge thanks to the author for letting me join the descend journey and sending me a copy! All opinions are my own.
———-
I enjoyed entering this world! Descend is told in dual POV by Kyleigh and Aislin. This is great for fantasy lovers, those wanting to be introduced into New Adult.
I was super invested in Kyleigh's story. She starts off being a little bit childish but as time goes by I love her character development. Aislin was put to the test with Kyleigh, she definitely learned to have patience with people surrounding her. Being from two different worlds, Kyleigh from what could be defined as our world and Aislin being part of the realm of Celaria, these two were different. But this didnt stop them from growing and learning to work together. I love that!
The world building was beautiful, I loved so much of the detail the author puts in there. Not to say that it was overwhelming in any sense. Friedman gave us the perfect materials to build. With regards to the magic, I wish I would have learned more. I am a sucker for the beginning of things.. Hoping to see more of that in the next book, which I am super excited to read!
OK so I may be a bit obsessed with Ox and Dru, they were the perfect addition to this story. A lot of the development we see is because of them too!
Huge thanks to the author for letting me join the descend journey and sending me a copy! All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2022
Review 4.5 Stars!
Descend is the first book in the Blaze Legacy, a dark portal fantasy series! This is an emotional and dark first book of the series, with a lush worldbuilding and layered characters.
When Kyleigh goes to college, she feels a link to her mother who left a long time ago and never came back. She discovers a secret university society, the Vis, which her mother used to be part of. Kyleigh unknowingly is dragged into a world of magic, danger and power: Celaria. Where she might just find the answers about her past.
While that, in Celaria, Aislin lives a life of service as a assassin due to her strong powers. After having her entire family killed in a devastating fire, she had no alternative but to accept her fate as an assassin, that is, until an opportunity for revenge comes knocking at her door.
The story is told in two points of views, from Kyleigh and Aislin, and as the lives of these two girls intertwine they must come together in order to achieve their goals. It is beautifully written story that had me guessing with every page! Cannot wait for the sequel.
Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy for review
Descend is the first book in the Blaze Legacy, a dark portal fantasy series! This is an emotional and dark first book of the series, with a lush worldbuilding and layered characters.
When Kyleigh goes to college, she feels a link to her mother who left a long time ago and never came back. She discovers a secret university society, the Vis, which her mother used to be part of. Kyleigh unknowingly is dragged into a world of magic, danger and power: Celaria. Where she might just find the answers about her past.
While that, in Celaria, Aislin lives a life of service as a assassin due to her strong powers. After having her entire family killed in a devastating fire, she had no alternative but to accept her fate as an assassin, that is, until an opportunity for revenge comes knocking at her door.
The story is told in two points of views, from Kyleigh and Aislin, and as the lives of these two girls intertwine they must come together in order to achieve their goals. It is beautifully written story that had me guessing with every page! Cannot wait for the sequel.
Thank you so much to the author for gifting me a copy for review
June 4, 2023
I met the author spontaneously on a weekend trip, bought this book from her in the parking lot of a restaurant area, and am now entrenched in the lives of these characters. I feel seen by the story being woven; through the grief, newfound autonomy, the ✨queerness✨. I see myself in the playfulness and heaviness that Lauren so delicately balances in her writing. I’m reminded that magic does exist. It can be dark and gruesome, but it can also create light and help us grow. It’s all up to the way we see and use it, and that magic exists inside of all of us.
I picked up the Pitch novella just after finishing this, and am ready with my copy of Scale for a buddy read-along. Not only are these books beautiful (and heartbreaking, funny, wonderful, etc) but they’ve connected me to a world of really cool friends in real life, reminding me that we can find wonder between the pages of a book and between the communities we have in our own.
I picked up the Pitch novella just after finishing this, and am ready with my copy of Scale for a buddy read-along. Not only are these books beautiful (and heartbreaking, funny, wonderful, etc) but they’ve connected me to a world of really cool friends in real life, reminding me that we can find wonder between the pages of a book and between the communities we have in our own.
romantasy-tbr
July 14, 2024Pre read ... I hear Charissa omgggg I read her the witch walker book 1 and I love the writing and world
July 31, 2022
Thank you to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“Once upon a time, I believed in fairy tales.
Now, I know they were all make believe.”
“I need you to kill a king”
“Mermaids are real”
Wow I’m still trying to recover from the amount of things I unraveled while reading this book!!
I can only say one thing … I NEED BOOK TWO NOW !!!!
A girl, trying to feel closer to her mother, who disappeared when she was ten, is suddenly invited to a college meeting for a secret society and … all of a sudden she finds herself in a completely different place … Celeria !!!!
We follow Kyleigh story, while she tries to find out what happened to her and her mother with the help of a handsome male interest Dru, while also following the story of another great main character … Aislin.
These two young women are connected in more than one way … that just don’t know it yet … while one is seeking answers, the other is seeking freedom, while delivering a mission for the Queen … to save her kingdom !!!!
So many mysteries, so many secrets, so many magical creatures (even DRAGONS!!!) and such a great plot !!!
I fell in love with the magic system and I’m afraid I’m partial to soma characters more than others … though I believe this world is gonna surprise me again soon !!!
And damn those plot twists at the end !!! It felt like the author already knew she needed something to catch the attention of the reader to prepare them for book two …
I AM MORE THAN READY !!!!!
“You are still just as beautiful as before, but now you stand out a little differently”
“I believe she’s descended from Celaria”
“My mom always believed you had to take charge of your life or others would happily do it for you”
“Once upon a time, I believed in fairy tales.
Now, I know they were all make believe.”
“I need you to kill a king”
“Mermaids are real”
Wow I’m still trying to recover from the amount of things I unraveled while reading this book!!
I can only say one thing … I NEED BOOK TWO NOW !!!!
A girl, trying to feel closer to her mother, who disappeared when she was ten, is suddenly invited to a college meeting for a secret society and … all of a sudden she finds herself in a completely different place … Celeria !!!!
We follow Kyleigh story, while she tries to find out what happened to her and her mother with the help of a handsome male interest Dru, while also following the story of another great main character … Aislin.
These two young women are connected in more than one way … that just don’t know it yet … while one is seeking answers, the other is seeking freedom, while delivering a mission for the Queen … to save her kingdom !!!!
So many mysteries, so many secrets, so many magical creatures (even DRAGONS!!!) and such a great plot !!!
I fell in love with the magic system and I’m afraid I’m partial to soma characters more than others … though I believe this world is gonna surprise me again soon !!!
And damn those plot twists at the end !!! It felt like the author already knew she needed something to catch the attention of the reader to prepare them for book two …
I AM MORE THAN READY !!!!!
“You are still just as beautiful as before, but now you stand out a little differently”
“I believe she’s descended from Celaria”
“My mom always believed you had to take charge of your life or others would happily do it for you”
October 14, 2023
ARC Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's another 5 star review for LR Friedman. This book was spicy 🥵🥵🥵. So proceed with caution.
I loved seeing Oakley become more confident in motherhood and the opening of her shop. Aspen is still as adorable as ever but Oakley and the guys in this one 🥵. It's spicy, it's really spicy. I liked that we got to see a bit more of Hazel and some of her secrets. I'm really excited to learn more about this eccentric sister.
Wicked in the Pines was more Oakley and Lynx but in Midnight with the Hexed we get to see more of our broody Saros and Atlas. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore Lynx but Saros is just something else entirely. Him actually opening up to Oakley and doing anything to protect those he loved. Absolutely love it. I'm still warming up to Atlas but I did like that he's learning to accept Oakley's wishes.
In this book we got to meet the heads of the other supernaturals in Celestial Haven and I can't wait for us to get to see more of this world.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It's another 5 star review for LR Friedman. This book was spicy 🥵🥵🥵. So proceed with caution.
I loved seeing Oakley become more confident in motherhood and the opening of her shop. Aspen is still as adorable as ever but Oakley and the guys in this one 🥵. It's spicy, it's really spicy. I liked that we got to see a bit more of Hazel and some of her secrets. I'm really excited to learn more about this eccentric sister.
Wicked in the Pines was more Oakley and Lynx but in Midnight with the Hexed we get to see more of our broody Saros and Atlas. Don't get me wrong I absolutely adore Lynx but Saros is just something else entirely. Him actually opening up to Oakley and doing anything to protect those he loved. Absolutely love it. I'm still warming up to Atlas but I did like that he's learning to accept Oakley's wishes.
In this book we got to meet the heads of the other supernaturals in Celestial Haven and I can't wait for us to get to see more of this world.
March 26, 2023
Descend is the first book in The Blaze Legacy series, and was a really good dark portal fantasy! I really enjoyed the world building and the plot was really intriguing. I loved all of the magical creatures we encountered!
In this book you follow two points of view, Kyleigh and Aislin. The characters were layered and enjoyable to experience this story with. The plot twists threw me for a loop too! I didn’t expect them, especially towards the end!
I do wish that there would have been more explanation in regards to the magic in this world. I feel that this area could have been developed a little bit more and made this story even more enjoyable.
If you are wanting to dip your toes into reading New Adult, this is a good one to start with.
In this book you follow two points of view, Kyleigh and Aislin. The characters were layered and enjoyable to experience this story with. The plot twists threw me for a loop too! I didn’t expect them, especially towards the end!
I do wish that there would have been more explanation in regards to the magic in this world. I feel that this area could have been developed a little bit more and made this story even more enjoyable.
If you are wanting to dip your toes into reading New Adult, this is a good one to start with.
August 2, 2022
This was such a unique and interesting read! I think the author did an amazing job at creating a diverse magical realm and weaving in modern day problems as well.
I really enjoyed Kyleigh and loved discovering Celaria. Such a fantastic debut!
I really enjoyed Kyleigh and loved discovering Celaria. Such a fantastic debut!
April 5, 2024
Epic book 4. Gri€f, healing, growth, friendship, found family, love. We’re starting to get a lot of answers that early Easter eggs left us with… can’t wait for the incredible ending coming this winter!
September 13, 2022
If you love fantasy with lovable characters, dual POV, multiple worlds, ad portal magic, then DESCEND is a book I highly recommend you check out! Though it does have a darker vein to it at times, the writing and dialogues make it the perfect light read, ideal to enjoy a quick binge or to slip out of a reading slump.
I adore fantasy stories that dabble with multiple worlds, but I particularly enjoyed how the author wove in a dash of secret societies as well. It added a touch of academic mystery, and also created a seamless link between our world and the fantasy realm of Celaria. The world building in the magic realm was also very well done. We still haven’t gotten a full scope of the magic (for plot reasons), but I was so excited about the little tidbits we did get! Lighting magic, fire magic, ice magic, shapeshifting, dragons, wicked enchanting beings in the woods… I was fangirling the entire time when something new was introduced as everything was so well done.
The author did an incredible job with her characters as well, especially the leading ladies, Aislin and Kyleigh. These two couldn’t be more different. One is a bit of an extrovert assassin from a fantasy world who yearns for nothing more than freedom and revenge for her dead family, the other is a sweet girl from our world who just wants to go to college and understand why her mom abandoned her. And yet I loved the grace with which both of them carried their burdens and the optimism they have in common. I found it extremely easy to cheer for these women and want them to succeed. They both grow and achieve so much during the span of a single novel, and I cannot wait to see where the author takes their journey next.
The only issue I found—which is subjective to my personal tastes—was in the pacing, both of the story and Kyleigh’s romantic arc. While the beginning was quick and engaging, I found that the middle of the book dragged a little. I think this was done to give the characters time to bond and also set the foundations for a relationship that I think will be important in the sequel, but I found I wasn’t as engaged. The ending, however, more than made up for it! There are so many plot twists and reveals within the last 50 pages, I couldn’t stop reading! As far as the romance goes, I felt like we didn’t get to see enough “bonding” between Kyleigh and Dru, so I’m not really feeling their attraction or romance yet. But Dru is the sweetest, so I know he’ll win me over given the time.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
I adore fantasy stories that dabble with multiple worlds, but I particularly enjoyed how the author wove in a dash of secret societies as well. It added a touch of academic mystery, and also created a seamless link between our world and the fantasy realm of Celaria. The world building in the magic realm was also very well done. We still haven’t gotten a full scope of the magic (for plot reasons), but I was so excited about the little tidbits we did get! Lighting magic, fire magic, ice magic, shapeshifting, dragons, wicked enchanting beings in the woods… I was fangirling the entire time when something new was introduced as everything was so well done.
The author did an incredible job with her characters as well, especially the leading ladies, Aislin and Kyleigh. These two couldn’t be more different. One is a bit of an extrovert assassin from a fantasy world who yearns for nothing more than freedom and revenge for her dead family, the other is a sweet girl from our world who just wants to go to college and understand why her mom abandoned her. And yet I loved the grace with which both of them carried their burdens and the optimism they have in common. I found it extremely easy to cheer for these women and want them to succeed. They both grow and achieve so much during the span of a single novel, and I cannot wait to see where the author takes their journey next.
The only issue I found—which is subjective to my personal tastes—was in the pacing, both of the story and Kyleigh’s romantic arc. While the beginning was quick and engaging, I found that the middle of the book dragged a little. I think this was done to give the characters time to bond and also set the foundations for a relationship that I think will be important in the sequel, but I found I wasn’t as engaged. The ending, however, more than made up for it! There are so many plot twists and reveals within the last 50 pages, I couldn’t stop reading! As far as the romance goes, I felt like we didn’t get to see enough “bonding” between Kyleigh and Dru, so I’m not really feeling their attraction or romance yet. But Dru is the sweetest, so I know he’ll win me over given the time.
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. All opinions are my own.
September 11, 2022
What an enchanting story!
Descend is the first in The Blaze Legacy series, set in both our world and the fantasy world of Celaria, and told in the dual POVs of Kyleigh and Aislin. There’s the mystery of a missing parent, secret societies, assassins, portal magic, rival kingdoms, characters that band together for a common goal, dragons…this book was a Fantasy lover’s dream!
While the story starts out in our world, the majority of it takes place in Celaria. That isn’t to say that the chapters in our world were no less important or intriguing. Here, we got to investigate on the enigmatic secret society, the Vindicatio Vis, and we got to meet our precious librarian Dru, so I was in my element. However, I loved the world the author created with Celaria with the court intrigue between the courts of Arafax and Inverno.
The group that forms within the story was fantastic. Ox was especially hard not to love. The two protagonists, Kyleigh and Aislin, were both amazing and well structured. I enjoyed both their POVs. As for the romance, Kyleigh and Dru were cute, but I do wish things had moved a little slower. Aislin, on the other hand, has an interesting dynamic going on with another strong female character, and I hope my ship senses aren’t lying to me. I’m excited to see how things progress for both couples.
I loved the reveals towards the end! I’d guessed the one about the mother, not because the author gave it away somehow, but rather because I couldn’t keep my overactive imagination quiet. The one in Inverno…shocked. My jaw hit the floor. Very excited for the sequel!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
Descend is the first in The Blaze Legacy series, set in both our world and the fantasy world of Celaria, and told in the dual POVs of Kyleigh and Aislin. There’s the mystery of a missing parent, secret societies, assassins, portal magic, rival kingdoms, characters that band together for a common goal, dragons…this book was a Fantasy lover’s dream!
While the story starts out in our world, the majority of it takes place in Celaria. That isn’t to say that the chapters in our world were no less important or intriguing. Here, we got to investigate on the enigmatic secret society, the Vindicatio Vis, and we got to meet our precious librarian Dru, so I was in my element. However, I loved the world the author created with Celaria with the court intrigue between the courts of Arafax and Inverno.
The group that forms within the story was fantastic. Ox was especially hard not to love. The two protagonists, Kyleigh and Aislin, were both amazing and well structured. I enjoyed both their POVs. As for the romance, Kyleigh and Dru were cute, but I do wish things had moved a little slower. Aislin, on the other hand, has an interesting dynamic going on with another strong female character, and I hope my ship senses aren’t lying to me. I’m excited to see how things progress for both couples.
I loved the reveals towards the end! I’d guessed the one about the mother, not because the author gave it away somehow, but rather because I couldn’t keep my overactive imagination quiet. The one in Inverno…shocked. My jaw hit the floor. Very excited for the sequel!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
October 10, 2023
We pick up right where we left off in Wicked in the Pines. Oakley's life seems to be getting back on track. Hazel is found safe, her magic is replenished, she's restarting her business back up, she has both Lynx and Saros, and Aspen is healthy and happy so what more could she want in life? But when there is another disappearance that threatens to ruin Starry Night Lane’s stellar reputation, putting pressure on the supernatural government and its Archons to unearth more answers surrounding the missing witches in the seemingly safe suburb her ex-Atlas is forced to move to Starry Night Lane and become her neighbor. Atlas wants Oakley and their son Aspen back in his life and he won't stop at anything to get them back but what he doesn't know is Oakley is keeping a secret about why they can't be together. As her past and present collide, she must decide if she’ll follow her heart’s desire or risk living with an eternity of regret.
I love the entire duet but I loved this book the most! It's full of emotion it had me laughing, crying, and everything in between. Yes, it's spicy but it has such a cozy feeling to it. It's the perfect fall read. I love all the characters and the growth is astounding. The twists and turns in this book made it difficult to put it down. The little glimpses of the side characters have me so excited for the rest of the series!
I love the entire duet but I loved this book the most! It's full of emotion it had me laughing, crying, and everything in between. Yes, it's spicy but it has such a cozy feeling to it. It's the perfect fall read. I love all the characters and the growth is astounding. The twists and turns in this book made it difficult to put it down. The little glimpses of the side characters have me so excited for the rest of the series!
December 2, 2024
I have read and am obsessed with everything Lauren has written and Fall is no exception! The Blaze Legacy is one of my all time favorite fantasy series. The world building, the character growth, the romance and spice, the Easter eggs sprinkled throughout the whole series, and brutal cliffhangers make this one of the best series out there!
Fall is definitely my favorite of the series. We are left with such a brutal ending in Ascend and Fall was the perfect follow up. Lauren does amazing at balancing grief and brokenness with healing and hope. She knows all the characters so well and takes them on the exact journey they need to go on. All while writing deeply emotional and beautiful words. I highlighted so many great quotes as I was reading!
Kyleigh, Aislin, Sloan, Ox, Neve, and even Travis and the Enchantress had incredible storylines. But nothing can beat Redmond, who I have been rooting for ever since Scale when I realized he was more than he appeared to be. His character arc and growth has been so amazing to follow throughout the series.
I could go on and on, so I will just end this by saying READ THIS SERIES and do not miss Fall!!
Fall is definitely my favorite of the series. We are left with such a brutal ending in Ascend and Fall was the perfect follow up. Lauren does amazing at balancing grief and brokenness with healing and hope. She knows all the characters so well and takes them on the exact journey they need to go on. All while writing deeply emotional and beautiful words. I highlighted so many great quotes as I was reading!
Kyleigh, Aislin, Sloan, Ox, Neve, and even Travis and the Enchantress had incredible storylines. But nothing can beat Redmond, who I have been rooting for ever since Scale when I realized he was more than he appeared to be. His character arc and growth has been so amazing to follow throughout the series.
I could go on and on, so I will just end this by saying READ THIS SERIES and do not miss Fall!!
January 27, 2024
It has been a long time since I've read a book that continually surprised me with twists. Descend managed to do just that, all the way up to the last page of the epilogue.
The story is told through the eyes of two different girls, from two different worlds. Normally, this style of writing annoys me but this was well done and each chapter is clearly marked so you know who is telling the story. The author also does an excellent job of getting into the story. There's some character set up in the beginning but it's not drawn out. Once you meet all of the main characters, the pace picked up and it became very hard to put the book down. Just when you think that you know what's coming next, you're proven wrong with the introduction of a new character, new magic, or finding out that what you thought you knew was wrong.
I loved reading Descend and I look forward to reading it again before the 2nd book in the series is released.
The story is told through the eyes of two different girls, from two different worlds. Normally, this style of writing annoys me but this was well done and each chapter is clearly marked so you know who is telling the story. The author also does an excellent job of getting into the story. There's some character set up in the beginning but it's not drawn out. Once you meet all of the main characters, the pace picked up and it became very hard to put the book down. Just when you think that you know what's coming next, you're proven wrong with the introduction of a new character, new magic, or finding out that what you thought you knew was wrong.
I loved reading Descend and I look forward to reading it again before the 2nd book in the series is released.
August 17, 2022
A great series and authorial debut for L.R. Friedman. This was really my first foray into romantic fantasy and was wondering, as an epic fantasy reader who has grown tired of standard epic fantasy and looking for something different...is this for me? Well, after reading Descend, I would say yup! It's got the right amount of fantasy mixed with romance, with intriguing characters and a little something for everyone, including my weakness...what looks to be a slow-burn romance that's just teased a bit and has me exited for book 2! A lot of care and attention to detail went into this book and I think everyone is going to just latch onto a character from this diverse cast. For me, it's Ais, Ox, and Sloan. There's enough world-building, character development, and twists to keep the pages turning. Read this book!
January 3, 2023
Talk about some badass female main characters. Aislin, who started off badass from the first page she was on. And Kyleigh, who became bassass once she had a little more time under her belt. I enjoyed that the story was told from both girls POVs, I felt that was very unique.
I definitely want more of Aislin’s background. I love that she names her marks- and loved that she still continued to call Fergus, Ox, even after learning his real name. I loved their playful banter with each other.
I can’t imagine what Kyleigh was going through when she found out about Celaria and magic abilities. I feel like she handled it quite well and so glad that she had a familiar face, Dru, to help her through it. Even after their awkward meeting in the library.
Very excited for the next book Scale to get more answers.
I definitely want more of Aislin’s background. I love that she names her marks- and loved that she still continued to call Fergus, Ox, even after learning his real name. I loved their playful banter with each other.
I can’t imagine what Kyleigh was going through when she found out about Celaria and magic abilities. I feel like she handled it quite well and so glad that she had a familiar face, Dru, to help her through it. Even after their awkward meeting in the library.
Very excited for the next book Scale to get more answers.
June 3, 2023
I have re-read this for the read-along put together by Lauren on IG in late May-June 2023 ...
I truly enjoyed reading this story again. I found a new love and respect for my favorite characters: Dru, Ox and Neve. I even found an understanding of Redmond.
I have been missing this world for 4 months! Lauren introduced me to such an enchanting place where it has been living rent-free in my head.
All of the clues to who Kyleigh truly was and where Kyleigh's mother ran off too, relied on that one item she had with her the whole time. Although I am pissed at her mother, I can appreciate that she did her a solid by having a caring and protective person sent to her.
If you have NOT read the Blaze Legacy yet ... go do it now.
Suggested reading order:
Descend
Scale
Pitch
Ascend
I truly enjoyed reading this story again. I found a new love and respect for my favorite characters: Dru, Ox and Neve. I even found an understanding of Redmond.
I have been missing this world for 4 months! Lauren introduced me to such an enchanting place where it has been living rent-free in my head.
All of the clues to who Kyleigh truly was and where Kyleigh's mother ran off too, relied on that one item she had with her the whole time. Although I am pissed at her mother, I can appreciate that she did her a solid by having a caring and protective person sent to her.
If you have NOT read the Blaze Legacy yet ... go do it now.
Suggested reading order:
Descend
Scale
Pitch
Ascend
July 27, 2022
I just finished this today, and I must say-as someone who doesn’t typically go for the fantasy genre (more of a crime/mystery kinda gal), I was blown away by this book and totally rethinking the “not a fantasy reader” thing.
The book started out intriguing and quickly became gripping. The author’s words had me visualizing the scenes in my head with their great attention to detail. I felt like I was right there in this fantasy world watching like a fly on the wall; reading as fast as I could to learn what would come next. I could feel my face visibly reacting to what I was reading I was so engaged.
I am hooked, and dying to find out what happens in the next book!
The book started out intriguing and quickly became gripping. The author’s words had me visualizing the scenes in my head with their great attention to detail. I felt like I was right there in this fantasy world watching like a fly on the wall; reading as fast as I could to learn what would come next. I could feel my face visibly reacting to what I was reading I was so engaged.
I am hooked, and dying to find out what happens in the next book!
January 29, 2023
I was immediately captivated by the premise of Descend—two women’s stories collide, one in our world and the other in a fantasy realm!!
The world-building and magic systems are utterly fascinating and it’s an altogether perfect book for lovers of new adult fantasy with all the best things—including DRAGONS!! Add to that the university setting and dark academia vibes?! I’m obsessed!!
This is a beyond wonderful debut from this new indie author and I cannot wait for more. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
The world-building and magic systems are utterly fascinating and it’s an altogether perfect book for lovers of new adult fantasy with all the best things—including DRAGONS!! Add to that the university setting and dark academia vibes?! I’m obsessed!!
This is a beyond wonderful debut from this new indie author and I cannot wait for more. Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
October 14, 2023
This is the perfect spooky season read! Witchy vibes, mystery, and 3 sexy love interests! Spicy yet cozy with all sorts of emotion, Midnight with the Hexed is a perfect conclusion to the Celestial Haven duology.
I love L.R. Friedman’s writing! Everything flows and the story building is wonderful. The characters growth and relationships are everything. I still cannot get over the creatively unique setting of Celestial Haven! I neeeed more. I love the twists the story takes and the ending was perfectly wrapped up. Honestly I will read anything @lrfriedmanauthor writes! Thank you for having me on your ARC team 🖤💜
I love L.R. Friedman’s writing! Everything flows and the story building is wonderful. The characters growth and relationships are everything. I still cannot get over the creatively unique setting of Celestial Haven! I neeeed more. I love the twists the story takes and the ending was perfectly wrapped up. Honestly I will read anything @lrfriedmanauthor writes! Thank you for having me on your ARC team 🖤💜
November 16, 2024
I picked this up on a whim and am so glad I did! The secret society and dark academia world in Kyleigh's POV and the badass magical assassin story in Aislin's POV drew me in and once I started, I couldn't stop! The world of Celaria with its magic and history was fun to escape into. I liked how both Kyleigh and Aislin had their own journey they needed to work through, but also how their stories complemented each other. Those reveals at the end were crazy! I can't wait for book 2!
June 3, 2023
I loved this book so much! Reading the book through the eyes of Kyleigh and Aislin was so fun and made me really feel for both girls. And the way the story has been written is so good! It felt like I could see all of the places described in my mind and it felt like I was walking along with them in the book. L. R. Friedman did a wonderful job at creating a world full of magic, wonder, action and love. I can't wait for the next book!
September 7, 2022
I have never read a book like this before but thoroughly enjoyed the ride. Full of fairy tales and magic that make the trip fun and enjoyable, some tension to keep things interesting, and a good little twist at the end. A great debut novel, and I'm sure L.R. Friedman will only get better and better with each coming installment.
August 21, 2022
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
What an amazing debut novel! I CAN NOT wait for the next book. The writing is beautifully done and the pacing was phenomenal. Kyleigh and Aislin’s journey had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The next book can’t come out soon enough!
What an amazing debut novel! I CAN NOT wait for the next book. The writing is beautifully done and the pacing was phenomenal. Kyleigh and Aislin’s journey had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. The next book can’t come out soon enough!
June 4, 2023
This book was so fun!
I love the dual POV from Kyleigh and Aislin, who are similar yet also different. I can’t wait to learn more about world, and all the characters we were introduced to in book one. I’m especially intrigued by the King 😏
Here’s to book 2!
I love the dual POV from Kyleigh and Aislin, who are similar yet also different. I can’t wait to learn more about world, and all the characters we were introduced to in book one. I’m especially intrigued by the King 😏
Here’s to book 2!
March 23, 2024
Descend is the first book of The Blaze Legacy series. This dual POV, dark fantasy centers around Kyleigh and Aislin.
Kyleigh grew up with two loving parents. She believed in princesses and fairy tales and magic. One day her mom just disappeared. She walked away from her beloved family without explanation. Kyleigh's parents met at Halston University, when they were students. She therefore wanted to follow in their footsteps and attend their alma mater, allowing her to feel connected to her mother. Kyleigh receives an invitation to Vis (Vindicatio Vis), a secret society. She had never heard of Vis, but when she learns that her mom was one of their members, her curiosity is piqued. Her decision to go all in leads to an epic adventure.
Aislin lives in Celaria, which is not part of our world. She lost her family in a tragic event where many of her people perished. While she was young when she was orphaned, she has found a place for herself. Unfortunately, some of the company she keeps are ruthless undesirables, and they use her for her abilities. Many of the inhabitants of Celaria have magical abilities, including Aislin. She can release electricity through her hands.
When one of Aislin's "elimination" assignments goes wrong, she is offered an opportunity. All she needs to do is use her gift to exact revenge against the man responsible for the tragedy that destroyed her home and stole her family. When she succeeds, she will be free and no one will be able to use her as a weapon again. She cannot refuse...
This book was absolutely wonderful! It is filled with mystery and adventure, love and loss, revenge and vengeance, and more. There are portals and magical beasts and plenty of surprises. And this is just the beginning of the series! The author has created a magical world with complex characters and interwoven storylines. Her female characters are brave and spirited, bold and determined. I thoroughly enjoyed their sass and spunk. Her male characters, while steadfast and strong, also have softer sides. It is hard not to fall in love with them!
I had only heard wonderful things about this series, but hadn't cracked it open until the author hosted a read-along. Genius! I jumped at the opportunity, forcing myself to follow the reading schedule and not get swept away in the story. If you ever have the chance to partake in such an experience, I highly encourage you to do so. It took the pleasure of reading this book to new heights. I was able to message the author directly, and participate in a group chat where others shared their thoughts on the assigned readings.
I am beyond excited to jump into Scale, the second book of the series. I'm just waiting for that read-along to begin.
Kyleigh grew up with two loving parents. She believed in princesses and fairy tales and magic. One day her mom just disappeared. She walked away from her beloved family without explanation. Kyleigh's parents met at Halston University, when they were students. She therefore wanted to follow in their footsteps and attend their alma mater, allowing her to feel connected to her mother. Kyleigh receives an invitation to Vis (Vindicatio Vis), a secret society. She had never heard of Vis, but when she learns that her mom was one of their members, her curiosity is piqued. Her decision to go all in leads to an epic adventure.
Aislin lives in Celaria, which is not part of our world. She lost her family in a tragic event where many of her people perished. While she was young when she was orphaned, she has found a place for herself. Unfortunately, some of the company she keeps are ruthless undesirables, and they use her for her abilities. Many of the inhabitants of Celaria have magical abilities, including Aislin. She can release electricity through her hands.
When one of Aislin's "elimination" assignments goes wrong, she is offered an opportunity. All she needs to do is use her gift to exact revenge against the man responsible for the tragedy that destroyed her home and stole her family. When she succeeds, she will be free and no one will be able to use her as a weapon again. She cannot refuse...
This book was absolutely wonderful! It is filled with mystery and adventure, love and loss, revenge and vengeance, and more. There are portals and magical beasts and plenty of surprises. And this is just the beginning of the series! The author has created a magical world with complex characters and interwoven storylines. Her female characters are brave and spirited, bold and determined. I thoroughly enjoyed their sass and spunk. Her male characters, while steadfast and strong, also have softer sides. It is hard not to fall in love with them!
I had only heard wonderful things about this series, but hadn't cracked it open until the author hosted a read-along. Genius! I jumped at the opportunity, forcing myself to follow the reading schedule and not get swept away in the story. If you ever have the chance to partake in such an experience, I highly encourage you to do so. It took the pleasure of reading this book to new heights. I was able to message the author directly, and participate in a group chat where others shared their thoughts on the assigned readings.
I am beyond excited to jump into Scale, the second book of the series. I'm just waiting for that read-along to begin.
March 4, 2024
“My champion in every fucking way.”
“Could you wade through grief, or was it more like a ghost that haunted you wherever you went?”
“Love only left you one of three ways: broken, alone, or dead.”
I feel like crying! This book has the potential to become my favourite instalment in this wonderful and amazing series! After Ascend broke me into a thousand tiny pieces and stepped on my heart, I feel like Fall healed me in a way I was not expecting it could. Every single page was made of me grieving with Ky!!! I was there with her. Mourning over a love lost and the possibile of what could have been while also feeling terribly guilty about sensations and feelings starting to blossom towards someone else’s. I loved everything that happened between Ox, Neve, Sloane and Ais. I feel like they brought some happiness and peace in a world made of pain and fear and grief. And I loved to explore more about Redmond… a truly complicated and interesting character that turned out being so much more than he was at the beginning. With more magic and more twists and turns, secrets revealed and connection happening where we are not expecting them, this book made my heart soar, taking my breath away and making me blush. I still feel a bit overwhelmed by it all and I won’t be complaining about it. I can’t !!! And after the wonderful cliffhanger left at the end … I feel like we have so many things to look forward to when it will be out and we’ll be waiting for book five holding our breath !!!
“I was starting to realize everyone
had ugly bits, a sum total of being broken in different ways through their lifetime.”
“There probably wasn't, but there was no
guidebook on how to deal with losing someone you loved and wanted to build a future around while simultaneously losing someone you loved but never got to patch up your shattered shared past.”
“You'd take my breath away, no matter your form.”
“Now here it was, braiding us back together, one thread, one day, at a time. I'd stitch its ends into both our hearts if that's what it took. I wouldn't lose her again.”
"I want you now. Tomorrow. Always."
“Could you wade through grief, or was it more like a ghost that haunted you wherever you went?”
“Love only left you one of three ways: broken, alone, or dead.”
I feel like crying! This book has the potential to become my favourite instalment in this wonderful and amazing series! After Ascend broke me into a thousand tiny pieces and stepped on my heart, I feel like Fall healed me in a way I was not expecting it could. Every single page was made of me grieving with Ky!!! I was there with her. Mourning over a love lost and the possibile of what could have been while also feeling terribly guilty about sensations and feelings starting to blossom towards someone else’s. I loved everything that happened between Ox, Neve, Sloane and Ais. I feel like they brought some happiness and peace in a world made of pain and fear and grief. And I loved to explore more about Redmond… a truly complicated and interesting character that turned out being so much more than he was at the beginning. With more magic and more twists and turns, secrets revealed and connection happening where we are not expecting them, this book made my heart soar, taking my breath away and making me blush. I still feel a bit overwhelmed by it all and I won’t be complaining about it. I can’t !!! And after the wonderful cliffhanger left at the end … I feel like we have so many things to look forward to when it will be out and we’ll be waiting for book five holding our breath !!!
“I was starting to realize everyone
had ugly bits, a sum total of being broken in different ways through their lifetime.”
“There probably wasn't, but there was no
guidebook on how to deal with losing someone you loved and wanted to build a future around while simultaneously losing someone you loved but never got to patch up your shattered shared past.”
“You'd take my breath away, no matter your form.”
“Now here it was, braiding us back together, one thread, one day, at a time. I'd stitch its ends into both our hearts if that's what it took. I wouldn't lose her again.”
"I want you now. Tomorrow. Always."
May 13, 2023
Genre: Portal Fantasy Romance
Tropes: Forced proximity, slow burn, cinnamon roll MMC
Spice: 🌶️
Why you will like: Portals, secret societies, magical creatures, unlikely friends, a man who loves books, giant fox!
What it’s about: College student Kyleigh gets more than she bargained for when she is whisked into a portal hidden on her campus. Discovering enemies, powers and worlds she can’t explain, she finds an unlikely ally in Aislin. An assassin with an attitude and a longing for freedom. Dangers and shocking twists wait around every turn, will they be able to revive this world destroyed by long held hatred?
Notes:
I’m not really a fan of books with a “college” vibe. (Cue bad decision flash backs 😳) But even though that’s where this book starts you’re pretty quickly sucked into mysteries and secret societies. Then you hit the portal and you get to meet all my favorite people. The enchantress HAS enchanted me. I need more of her. I think that’s my heart in her jar. 💘 There were a lot of twists and I really enjoyed learning about the characters history and the world/magic. Aislin is amazing and I’m pretty sure we’re best friends. She pushes people away or maybe it’s that she doesn’t know how to let them in. But it’s so fun to watch them all work their way into her heart and get her all protective over them. I need to know more about Sloane and Mox! They are so intriguing. And that ending.. I just 🤯 What?!??
Why you might dislike: The dual POV is not with the love interest. It’s not a bad thing but just something to note, I’m so used to it being the love interest it threw me for a minute. Kyleigh is young and some of her actions felt silly even if understandable. I just didn’t connect with her as much as Aislin in the first half of the book, which is totally a preference thing. I personally wasn’t into the romance here, maybe Dru is too good for me. And I mean it’s probably because my heart belongs to another. 🫙❤️
TW: Explicit scenes, sexual harassment, loss of family, violence, gore, murder, torture (of the winged variety)
Tropes: Forced proximity, slow burn, cinnamon roll MMC
Spice: 🌶️
Why you will like: Portals, secret societies, magical creatures, unlikely friends, a man who loves books, giant fox!
What it’s about: College student Kyleigh gets more than she bargained for when she is whisked into a portal hidden on her campus. Discovering enemies, powers and worlds she can’t explain, she finds an unlikely ally in Aislin. An assassin with an attitude and a longing for freedom. Dangers and shocking twists wait around every turn, will they be able to revive this world destroyed by long held hatred?
Notes:
I’m not really a fan of books with a “college” vibe. (Cue bad decision flash backs 😳) But even though that’s where this book starts you’re pretty quickly sucked into mysteries and secret societies. Then you hit the portal and you get to meet all my favorite people. The enchantress HAS enchanted me. I need more of her. I think that’s my heart in her jar. 💘 There were a lot of twists and I really enjoyed learning about the characters history and the world/magic. Aislin is amazing and I’m pretty sure we’re best friends. She pushes people away or maybe it’s that she doesn’t know how to let them in. But it’s so fun to watch them all work their way into her heart and get her all protective over them. I need to know more about Sloane and Mox! They are so intriguing. And that ending.. I just 🤯 What?!??
Why you might dislike: The dual POV is not with the love interest. It’s not a bad thing but just something to note, I’m so used to it being the love interest it threw me for a minute. Kyleigh is young and some of her actions felt silly even if understandable. I just didn’t connect with her as much as Aislin in the first half of the book, which is totally a preference thing. I personally wasn’t into the romance here, maybe Dru is too good for me. And I mean it’s probably because my heart belongs to another. 🫙❤️
TW: Explicit scenes, sexual harassment, loss of family, violence, gore, murder, torture (of the winged variety)
May 31, 2023
I started this book for a read along with the author and a group of readers while we are waiting on the release for the third in the series. I was HOOKED after the first 4 chapters and had to force myself to stay on track with everyone else who was reading. I failed. Because once I hit ch 28, I forgot to be looking out for the end of the chapter and flew through the last few chapters of the book.
Ky is a new college student who is attending her parents’ alma mater. All she’s ever wanted was to make her proud. When she gets involved in a secret society, her life gets flipped upside down and Dru, the good looking librarian is involved. Pulling her through a portal to a fantasy world with dueling kingdoms, Dru saves Ky’s life and puts her on the path to getting answers she’s always water.
The slow burn between these two was so cute. I absolutely loved it. Their interactions were sweet and the care was obvious through every conversation and touch.
Aislin is an assassin who gets caught when an assassination attempt goes awry. After being toted to the Queen by Ox, she’s sent on a mission to the enemy’s kingdom with Ox in tow. Her magic has always been used to control her, but what happens when she’s done letting others hold the leash?
The banter between Ox and Aislin was so funny. Ox is a headstrong, full blooded man (if you catch my drift) and Aislin takes no ish from anyone. Their partnership, while forced to start, soon develops into something that almost could be considered a friendship.
The real action, however, starts when stories and missions collide. This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster, especially during the last 1/3 of the book. I’m already wanting to dive into the second book to find out what happens next. L. R. Friedman has an excellent way with world buildings and inciting emotions and responses while reading. I truly loved reading this book!
Ky is a new college student who is attending her parents’ alma mater. All she’s ever wanted was to make her proud. When she gets involved in a secret society, her life gets flipped upside down and Dru, the good looking librarian is involved. Pulling her through a portal to a fantasy world with dueling kingdoms, Dru saves Ky’s life and puts her on the path to getting answers she’s always water.
The slow burn between these two was so cute. I absolutely loved it. Their interactions were sweet and the care was obvious through every conversation and touch.
Aislin is an assassin who gets caught when an assassination attempt goes awry. After being toted to the Queen by Ox, she’s sent on a mission to the enemy’s kingdom with Ox in tow. Her magic has always been used to control her, but what happens when she’s done letting others hold the leash?
The banter between Ox and Aislin was so funny. Ox is a headstrong, full blooded man (if you catch my drift) and Aislin takes no ish from anyone. Their partnership, while forced to start, soon develops into something that almost could be considered a friendship.
The real action, however, starts when stories and missions collide. This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster, especially during the last 1/3 of the book. I’m already wanting to dive into the second book to find out what happens next. L. R. Friedman has an excellent way with world buildings and inciting emotions and responses while reading. I truly loved reading this book!
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