Seeking Elvyra

The Great King and Seer #1

by Jessica Pietro

To rebuild the world, it must first be torn down...

A land corrupted with darkness.
A prophesied King destined to be Great.
A Seer sent to clear the path.
And a soldier foretold to do incredible things.

In the wilds of Arkaemor, Foxxglove and Iris Belamour seek Celestelvyra, a mystical land most believe to be a place of legends and fairytales. Hunted by the King's Legion, a group of elite soldiers known as the Reko Raptors, and the Immortal Queen herself, the girls make their way through the eastern territories, following a loose trail and clinging to the hope that fate is leading the way. When Foxx has her first vision in the desert, the ground shifts beneath them. Soon after, they meet a handsome stranger in the jungle who knows just a little too much, and it doesn't take long for them to realize the magnitude of secrets still left uncovered.

Along with the help of a few unlikely friends, the sisters will uproot the nations and turn Arkaemor on its head.
We're all seeking truth, but are we willing to accept it, whatever the cost?
And who, if any, will survive the destruction?

Genres: Fantasy, Ebooks

588 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 3, 2024

About the author

Jessica Pietro has been enchanted by fantasy worlds her entire life. Though she dabbled in writing, she never anticipated being a published author.

In 2019, she started teaching and selling artwork under the name Vellichor and More. In 2021, she began writing The Great King and the Seer. And with so many new ideas brewing already, she is excited to see where else her creativity takes her.

Not only is she passionate about art and stories, she also enjoys adventuring, games, studying her bible, anime, gardening, music, hot beverages, camping, and spending time with her family.

Jessica resides in Pennsylvania, with her husband, their son, their kitties, and far too many books. Find out more about her by connecting with her on social media.

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Just…wow.
This was a ride. An epic ride of love, anger, frustration, joy…. This will make you question what is family, grief, a lie. That ending.
This author? One to watch. This book? The beginning to the next great epic series. I was not expecting to be sucked in this hard or to be wanting book two this much … like right now.

[Shandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is more than just a fantasy tale, and while it is that, it is also the beginning of a great journey of finding yourself, your place in the world, and what it all means.

This book starts the journey of two sisters who begin a great adventure full of magic, love (all different kinds), loyalty, some scary creatures (I would be so scared if they were real), and an entirely new universe to get lost in. Things are not always what they seem and when you think you can predict what is going to happen, get ready because you are wrong.

Full of magic, adventure, and rich characters, the author does a great job world building and bringing Arkaemor to life. I sped through it and am eagerly awaiting the sequel.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeking Elvyra is a fast-paced adventure story filled with dynamic characters, intense action sequences, and magical creatures.

Dealing with a search for identity, finding meaning in the questions of life, and the struggle between good and evil, Seeking Elvyra has themes for everyone.

[laura Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was a fast paced, easy read. It takes you on a journey with two sisters who are looking for this missing family. I really enjoyed the world building and all the characters we learned about along the way. If you enjoy adventure and magical creatures this is the book for you!

[Kez Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an epic journey with detailed worldbuilding, magic systems, uncovering powers, and fantasy elements including medical creatures and realms.
Following the journey of 2 sisters Foxxglove and Iris we see the dangers they confront, and the quest they are faced with to uncover what happened to their father, to discover a mythical realm, and to escape from the countless enemies after them, including an evil queen.

There are lots of twists and the story keeps you invested to uncover more secrets and truths. You're never sure if the characters are allies or enemies as everyone seems to have their own agenda, making it difficult for Iris and Foxx to trust anyone, even their potential love interests.

This is a beautifully rich YA adventure and high fantasy journey, and the start of a great series. Looking forward to reading more!

(P.s warning it is a chunky book 📖)

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading about Foxx and Iris’ adventures! Such a great concept, plot and execution! I was honored to be an ARC reader even if the book came out early! Artwork is done by the author and that makes it even more impressive and amazing to be along for the ride. Would definitely recommend this book and I can’t wait to own a hard copy!!!!!

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is 4.5 stars. This book was amazingly well written. The thing I loved the most was the world building and all of the different creatures in it. There is so many different places that all have their own creatures and terrain. The author really did a great job with cohesion of everything. The story itself is excellent and the characters are all very well thought out and executed well. I love how the author mainly has the point of view of the two main characters but will at times shift so you can understand what others are thinking without it being distracting or off putting, it ends up being a quick page of someone else’s thoughts. I personally really dislike different points of view but it’s not throughout all the time and sprinkled in, in a way that is very easy to read and enjoy. There was a lot of twists and turns which added to the story in such a good way. The only negative thing I would have to say is there’s a few parts where it gets a bit dark and the ending I really disliked but there will be another book and I would definitely read it. Had the ending been a bit different it would definitely be a 5 star book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[R.M. Krogman, Dark and Epic Fantasy Author · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Seeking Elvyra" by Jessica Pietro is a high fantasy journey through the interesting map of Arkaemor, where vastly different ecosystems are separated by strange magical borders. Every territory is different, and the reader explores this landscape along with the two main characters, a sister duo named Foxxglove and Iris. Foxxglove, being the elder, is stoic, careful, and suspicious in her efforts to protect her beloved sister, who is impulsive, hot-headed, and effusive. Their mission: to find their father, who they think went to the heavenly realm of Celestelvrya.

The story focuses on their relationship, their adventures, and their growth as they move through Arkaemor seeking seven keys to the upper realm. They meet several people along the way, but their companions seem to only hold secrets, lies, or spite for them. I particularly disliked the confused feelings for poor Iris, who sometimes seemed so young and other times fought like a full-grown adult. The sisters were almost always in sync, despite their different attitudes, but sometimes followed certain paths contrary to what I expected. Several times I was just screaming for them to fight back or run.

There is a lot of novelty in this world, so this book is perfect for those who love world-building and colorful description. It also leaves a lot of questions on the table, such as why strange things happened and what is special about them in a world of immortals.

[Soha Amer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Genre: Dark Romance / Emotional Drama / Obsessive Love
Vibe: Intense. Emotional. Consuming.

Seeking Elvyra is not a light romance — it’s a story about longing, pursuit, and emotional unraveling. The narrative leans heavily into obsession and vulnerability, creating a dynamic where love feels urgent, almost desperate at times.

The emotional core of the story lies in the tension between desire and control. The hero’s pursuit carries a strong, dominant energy, while Elvyra herself brings complexity — she’s not just someone to be “won,” but someone navigating her own emotional struggles.

What stands out:
• High emotional intensity
• Obsessive, consuming love themes
• Power imbalance dynamics
• Deep internal conflict
• Passion-driven decision making

The writing focuses on the psychological layers of attraction and attachment, making the romance feel raw rather than polished. It’s dramatic, sometimes messy — but intentionally so.

This book will appeal most to readers who enjoy:
• Dark, possessive heroes
• Toxic but passionate love stories
• Emotional chaos with chemistry

[Gabby Y · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This is truly an epic tale. It reminds me a lot of a DnD campaign where anything can happen. Especially the fight scenes. I enjoyed how well we get to know the characters. World and character building.

Perhaps sometimes characters seemed unlikely kind or dramatic but that’s also wha reminded me of DnD. Ultimately the characters are very lovable!

Lots of twists and turns. Some sweet romance but mostly an epic journey.

I’d love to read the next book and see how the journey continues.

[Read With Grace White · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is the first book that I have read from this author. I enjoyed this first book within the series I really like the world building and characters. Thank you for letting me read this book and I look forward to reading what happens next!

[Nikkolle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was super good. There was excellent World building-which to me is a must. I thought it went a little slow at times but the last half flew by. I enjoyed all the characters and I have some theories. I have so many questions and really need the next book ASAP.

[Chaos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re reading for book 2



For a new author, I didn't have high expectations. I never really do. However, she not only blew the expectations out of the water, but she also blew them out of this world. World building is PERFECTION! I don't usually say that much for a new author. There's always something that could be better. Can't say that here. Besides the amazing world building, my favorite part is the sisterly relationship between Foxx and Iris. I'm an older sister to a younger sister, and the author described that relationship perfectly. Older sisters will fight with everything we have for our younger siblings, but especially a younger sister. I love the bickering they did, but at the end of the day, they had each other's back. Perfect representation.

While the POVs focused on the two MCs, there were povs from the side characters, but only when necessary. It added such depth to those characters without overwhelming me as a reader. The author did get a bit much in the descriptor department, but for me, who loves Tolkien, Rebecca Ross, and other lyrical and descriptive authors, it worked. Beautifully written and executed. I need book 2 and everything else this author writes.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Seeking Elvyra by Jessica Pietro is book one in The Great King and the Seer Series. This is the first book I’m reading by this author and I’m already looking forward to more. This was such a well written book that captured my attention and kept it all the way through. The world building was fantastic and the descriptions were perfect; it was as if I could actually see the world. Oh my gosh, the plot was amazing… Once I started the book I didn’t want to stop until I was finished! I love a good fantasy read and this is great; it really took me on an adventure along with Iris and Foxxglove. What a duo! They were written so well, it was as if I could feel their emotions through the pages. I loved reading about their relationship and how they are learning to grow. It’s a story that has you along with the characters experiencing truths, lies, who is a friend and who is not, about loyalty. This has plenty of adventure and action to keep you turning the pages. I still have so many questions so needless to say I’m looking forward to book two. If you’re a fantasy lover like myself, you need to check out this book, trust me. This is definitely a recommendation!

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[Liz Fully Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, that was quite the ride! A pretty chonky book, Seeking Elvyra was fast paced and action packed. This epic fantasy book follows the story of two sisters looking for their father who disappeared and finding their own version of a family along the way. They also find adventure and a quest to end the evil reign of their Queen.

The world building was great, and if you follow the author on Facebook, she posts images of the different lands, which makes it so easy to picture the story as it’s happening. The writing flows nicely and is easy to read, which is nice in a book this size, and the characters are well rounded and developed nicely.

I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next book, which will hopefully be released not too long from now. Crossing fingers.

Highly recommend for lovers of epic fantasy with found family, slow romance, intricate world building, and great storytelling.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this to read through!

While it took me a little bit to get into it, I enjoyed this book. Some of the descriptions were easy to place yourself into the world the characters were in. I enjoyed the book overall but did have some issues with it. I found myself having to reread dialogue parts to see what characters were speaking. The different characters didn’t necessarily have enough of a different “voice” to easily tell them apart if trying to read quickly. The parts about the “Creator” I really had trouble getting into as well.

The descriptive sections for world building and the overall plot itself helped me want to keep reading though and I’m sure I’ll pick up the next book to see what happens next.

[Sarah (Hayzel) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this debut!

There is a lot of setup in the first part of the book, but knowing this to be the first in a long series of epic fantasy books, I think that’s understandable. The final part of the book is a wild ride, and characters are well-flawed making for interesting conflict and painful choices.

Looking forward to the next in the series!

[Chantelle Lambert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely mind bogglingly amazing!

So many twists and turns I didn’t see coming, the foreshadowing was done brilliantly. I enjoyed every part of this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. It has earned a solid five stars from me!

[Raffaela Frymark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read! The story keeps you engaged and the characters and world building sucks you right in as if you're in the book, yourself! Can't wait for book 2!

[Ashlee Rose · Rating 4 out of 5]

** 3.75 stars rounded up to 4 bc GR only does whole number stars **

First off, I loved the sisterly relationship between Foxx and Iris. As an older sister myself (coincidentally to a younger sister lol), it was really easy to see myself in Foxxglove’s shoes and like her, would do anything in my power to protect my younger sister. I really liked that while they might fight, disagree, and bicker - they always had each others’ backs. By far the best and most well fleshed out relationship in the novel. While this was my fave, Pietro did a really good job fleshing out the rest of the side characters and their relationships with the sisters. They were intentional, and helped flesh out the sisters’ journey and worldviews.

Her world building is also incredible - very well thought out lands with different biomes and unique plants and animals inhabiting each. I felt like I had a solid grasp of the land, vegetation, climate, and colors of everywhere our duo traveled. However, I also think that the mixture of very fantastical creatures and normal animals felt a bit off. The only mention of cats and dogs were used in idioms, fish were mentioned as food, and horses mentioned since they could ride them. There was also a scene with very specific species of parrots. However, it was much more common for our protagonists to see and/or interact with the fantastical species unique to Arkaemor. “Real life” animals were used more as descriptors of other people or things, and they very rarely came in contact with them besides in specific scenes where said animals were integral to the scene (mainly horses, parrots, and the occasional fish). I felt like this imbalance pulled me out of the reading, as Pietro also had a habit of introducing the new creatures by name, so I always had a moment of “what the heck creature is that I’ve never heard of it” before we got any sort of description. More often than not it took me out of the reading, then I’d be confused when a “real life” animal was used as a descriptor because it seemed they didn’t exist in this world since we almost never came in contact with them. I think if Pietro had stuck with just the fantastical animals and found different phrases as workarounds for the descriptions she was trying to portray, or just make “real” animals more commonplace in this world then it wouldn’t have been so jarring.

As far as her descriptors go, I do think Pietro’s writing leans a little into the purple prose. A little will definitely help set the scene, or describe the setting or characters. But almost every single paragraph felt like she was over describing what was happening. The reading became a bit of drag because of this, which sucked because I really like her plot building, character development, and overall story. The kindle edition is almost 600 pages and I genuinely believe this story could’ve been told in closer to 400 if we trimmed a little bit of the fat. There’s nothing inherently wrong with purple prose, I’m just not a fan as I feel as it takes away from the meat of the story. However, If you like that kind of overly descriptive writing, then this would be right up your alley. For this reason alone I don’t think I’ll be continuing with the series as my TBR is too long as it is to add a mid-level series. If I have the time, or if I read a snippet and it seems like the flowery writing has toned down then I’d love to pick up the sequel - as I genuinely loved the story and characters.

One last thing that was a little irksome was that this was primarily told in 3rd person limited from Foxx’s and Iris’s POV. I think sometimes we would randomly get a couple thoughts from other side characters, and it took a sec to distinguish that it wasnt the sisters’ interpretation of these characters, but a 3rd person omniscient leaning POV. This happened only a handful of times, but I think if we were going to tell this story from multiple POV’s, it would’ve been easier to separate them by chapter and explicitly stating whose POV we’re following at that time as the random changing was sort of hard to follow at times.

I also want to say that I did not see some of those twists coming in the last 25ish % of the book - you got me there!

I think this a super interesting story with very well done characters that a lot of people will enjoy, it just wasn’t quite my cup of tea.

Thank you to Jessica Pietro, Vellichor and More publishing, and BookSirens for the eARC!

[Esther ter Reehorst]

Ok, there we go! I really enjoyed "Seeking Elvyra", and finished it in a couple of days. I appreciated the world building, the character building, the unexpected plot-twist (even though I definitely was not happy with the last one, whoa! Not because it wasn't extremely well done, but because it was so sad…) The book reminded me of multiple different books in the fantasy genre that I love.

This book is 'christian themed'. It has a creator by the name Elohim, who seems to share some traits of the biblical god as described by some. Not many of the characters are even aware of his existence, and if they are, they know very little. I expect that to become more in the next book. However, this book didn't feel at all to be pushing any religious statements, which I appreciate.

The characters are very well written. Iris is impulsive, courageous and (despite all what happened to her) intensely loving and empathic. She needs to be protected, which is a task her sister takes very seriously. Her sister Foxxglove is a way more 'difficult', multi-layered character, shaped by her traumas. It is hard to gain her trust, and forgiveness is something that definitely doesn't come easy. She will try at all costs to protect herself, however heartbreaking that is. She reminded me a lot of Katniss, the main character in the Hunger Games. I could relate to both Iris and Foxxglove.

The other characters are also very well done. I feel that the author has a deep understanding of trauma, and what it does or can potentially do to different personalities. I am sure this will give a lot of good starting points for discussing later on with my children, when they are interested in reading it as well. It already gives me food for thought for sure.

My one reason for a star less? The huge focus on 'romantic' or sexual feelings throughout the book. I know it's 'a thing' in most young adult books, and I wish it wasn't the case. I wish there was a whole lot less focus on the (almost always extremely good) looks of the protagonists, and I wish it wasn't always so very obvious that this immediately leads to sexual attraction. I wish there was a whole lot more of intensely loving friendships in the Lucy- Mr. Tumnus category for teenagers and young adults to look up to. I have to say there is some of that in this book as well, but it definitely focuses more on all the 'sparks' and kisses. Not more than that, to be sure. Also, it's not artificially added to gain attention, it shapes the story as it is. So, this is just a personal opinion.

That having said, I am MUCH looking forward to reading the sequel, and hope BookSirens will let me review that one, too! The cliffhangers are abundant, and I can't wait to know how everything will develop. A job very well done!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nichole Halbmaier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily to share my honest opinion.

I recommend that you pick this book up and read it immediately!! Wow! What an absolutely incredible read. I don’t know what I love more about it, the amazing world that was created in this fantasy, the wide range of characters, the prominent ones as well as background characters and their depths and unique personalities/perspectives, or the fantastic plot of this book. I don’t want to give anything away because I really truly believe you need to read this book and discover how incredible it is for yourself. Many surprises! :)

It took no more than the first chapter to get me hooked. Iris and her sister Foxxglove are so dynamic and yet so relatable. The unspoken rivalry, the mothering from the older sibling, the carefree worry free attitude of the younger sibling and their tight knit relationship; really make it so anyone can relate to them as a pair and as individuals.

Each stop they make on their journey brings in a new friend or a new enemy. The new relationships they build along their journey(good or bad) start to reshape them and really allow them to develop themselves into two very different but very badass women.

The gentleman they meet along the way quickly learn just how capable these ladies are and it invigorates something in themselves. Their journey is an impossible one and they face many trials and see destruction along the way. Every step leads them closer to discovering the truth, closer to finding the answers to the mysteries they seek to solve, and adding layer after layer of complexity and uncertainty.

The ending of this book was absolutely brilliant, I was not at all prepared for the plot twists or the lingering list of questions I now have and NEED to have answered. I cannot wait to read the next installment of this series and I really hope that you will pick this book up and give it a read. If you love fantasy and mystery and great character arcs as well as just really great characters then I know you will enjoy this.

[Brooklyn L. Wolves · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeking Elvyra by Jessica Pietro is a captivating fantasy adventure that grabbed me from the first page and refused to let go! The premise alone a land corrupted by darkness, a prophesied King, a Seer, and a soldier is enough to pique interest, but Pietro delivers so much more. The world of Arkaemor is richly imagined, with a palpable sense of danger and mystery lurking around every corner.

The sisters, Foxxglove and Iris Belamour, are compelling protagonists. Their desperate journey to find the fabled Celestelvyra, while pursued by the ruthless King's Legion and the formidable Immortal Queen, is fraught with tension and excitement. I was immediately invested in their survival and their quest to uncover the truth. The introduction of a mysterious stranger in the jungle, who seems to know more than he lets on, adds another layer of intrigue.

What I particularly loved was the way Pietro subtly weaves in themes of fate, sacrifice, and the pursuit of truth. The question posed - "Are we willing to accept it, whatever the cost?" is thought-provoking and elevates the story beyond a simple adventure tale. The promise of "uproot[ing] the nations and turning Arkaemor on its head" has left me absolutely eager to see how this conflict unfolds!

The writing is engaging and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the Arkaemor landscape, from dangerous deserts to dense jungles. The pacing is excellent, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat with a perfect blend of action, suspense, and character development.

Seeking Elvyra is a must-read for fans of fantasy, strong female leads, and stories that explore the complexities of destiny and the fight against tyranny. I am already counting down the days until the next installment. Highly recommended!

[Angela Brannon]

This book is truly an epic saga. So much happens that it probably should have been released as two books, but who am I to complain about more story. I really loved the book's originality and the worldbuilding. The descriptions of the settings are very real and visceral, and I could picture myself walking about in this world with my new friends.

The prose did get a little wordy and pretentious in places, and the author's seeming determination to insert every color name from her oil paint set was a little off-putting. I was thrown right out of my mental "book-movie" on too many occasions trying to remember what color saffron or cerulean actually were. The addition of the "normal" color name after the descriptive color name would have been helpful.

I loved characterization of the two sisters who were the main characters. In many ways, this book has more of an ensemble cast with so many important secondary characters. The author did jump between POVs in a way that was sometimes confusing, making me stop the narrative to figure out who was talking or experiencing something. Maybe alternating chapters between the characters POV would have been less confusing that alternating every few paragraphs.

All in all, though, I did love the story and will be recommending it to my friends. The creative worldbuilding and fresh storyline are well worth reading, even with the daunting length of the book. The cliffhanger ending was well done and I can't wait to read the next book to see where the author takes us.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Liesbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Initially, I thought this book was just another run-of-the-mill fantasy story, following the usual world-building steps. However, the author pleasantly surprised me with a unique twist. The setting is a richly detailed world with distinct regions, from lush jungles to arid deserts, separated by a mysterious barrier.

The story begins with a heart-wrenching tragedy: Iris and Foxglove lose their parents at a young age and must learn to survive on their own in the wild. Unknown to them, they are being hunted by the malevolent immortal queen, Sirena. As they set out to uncover the secrets their parents left behind, they meet Declan, Orion, and later Asher—each with their hidden agendas.

Throughout their journey, Iris and Foxglove face numerous challenges and betrayals, making it difficult to know whom to trust. Their hearts gradually open, only to be broken again. The narrative is heartfelt and contains some graphic scenes that are not for the faint-hearted. Foxglove's discovery that she shares her mother's abilities adds another layer of complexity and fear.

The world-building is particularly impressive, with vibrant depictions of rainforests, deserts, and unique magical creatures like giants and fairy-like beings. The characters pursue different goals, some noble and some not, creating an intriguing dynamic. The interplay of budding friendships, potential romances, and constant betrayals keeps the story engaging, as the characters strive to prevent a prophecy from coming true.

[Alaina Tobias · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a very early advanced reader who has helped edit this book at times, I have to say I'm in so in love!! This is the beginning of The Next Big Fantasy Book Series!! It's better than 95% of the current YA fiction out there, and fans of the ACOTAR series will definitely want to check this one out!

The characters are as deep as the story and lore are complex!! You'll find yourself enchanted and curious as you enter this world through the eyes of two young and opposite sisters, trying to survive and discover what happened to their parents and the world that left them all alone. Along the way, there is a medley of mixed up meanderors that join their adventure across the varied realms, each for their own reasons, and with names that speak to the soul of each one's character, all those different spicy people blend together in a literary dish that is both familiar and new! I highly recommend getting this series on your list!! And because it's created by an incredible painter, as well as author, you can look forward to lots of accompanying themed art and beautiful merchandise in the future!

[Christina Lerew · Rating 5 out of 5]

"To shred all to ruins, he’ll forfeit his crown, To rebuild the world, it must first be torn down."
Iris and Foxx are on the journey of a lifetime in search of their lost father. Little is known except the guides and hints to what some say doesn't exist, Celestelvyra. But there is more at play then a simple journey once they discover they are wanted by another force. They will meet others along the path both friend and foe. They will face unthinkable challenges on their quest. They will find strength when strength doesn't seem possible. Will they succeed in their task? Can hope be restored? Will they come out whole both mind and heart? The choice is yours to embark on the quest that will awaken your mind.

Wow! This has been an amazing book to read. The world building, story telling and adventure rival lord of the rings. I found myself captivated and wishing I too could be a part of this world. The ending was a cliffhanger that was shocking! I'm excited to see what comes next. Jessica has a way with words and has created an amazing piece of art.

[stephanie cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeking Elvyra is an exhilarating start to The Great King and Seer series, filled with fast-paced action, captivating world-building, and dynamic characters that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Jessica Pietro’s writing style flows effortlessly, making it impossible to stop turning the pages. The chemistry between the two main characters, sisters Foxxglove and Iris, adds emotional depth to the adventure while their journey through different, vividly crafted territories keeps the plot fresh and engaging.

The world-building is one of the highlights of this book, offering a rich and immersive landscape full of magical creatures and diverse settings. It’s the kind of world that invites you to explore every corner alongside the characters, and the adventure never slows down.

Seeking Elvyra is a must-read for fantasy lovers, offering a thrilling ride with relatable characters, an intriguing plot, and a world you’ll want to get lost in.

Pros:

Strong, relatable characters
Rich and immersive world-building
Fast-paced, exciting adventure

[Lisa Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a cozy fantasy that blends prophecy, peril, and a healthy dose of sisterhood, Seeking Elvyra has you covered. The story follows sisters Foxxglove and Iris Belamour as they journey across the realm of Arkaemor in search of the legendary Celestelvyra. Along the way, they’re dodging everything from Reko Raptors (yes, they’re as terrifying as they sound) to the not-so-chill Immortal Queen.

Jessica Pietro builds a richly imagined world full of ancient magic, cryptic secrets, and characters you’ll want to root for. The pace is steady and the tone feels like classic fantasy—with just enough mystery to keep you flipping pages. It’s a story about destiny, family bonds, and the quiet strength it takes to stand up in a world that seems determined to knock you down.

This is a great pick for readers who enjoy epic quests without overwhelming grimdark vibes, and anyone who loves the idea that the fate of the world might just rest in the hands of two determined sisters. Bring on Book 2—I need answers and probably more dragons.

[Gabby · Rating 5 out of 5]

You’ve got to read Seeking Elvyra! Jessica Pietro balances action, intrigue, and romance (light on the romance) in such an absorbing way, you are drawn in and the pages fly by with ease!

Yes, the book is long, but the pacing is perfect! It is never too slow or too rushed. I figured out the true heritage of their companion way before Foxx and Iris did, and I think you will too, but I think that’s because we have an outside view. I’m positive we would have a harder time if we were in their shoes. 😉 As we got near the end of the book, I started to worry about how she would deal with the loose ends, but Ms. Pietro wraps things up enough and still manages to leave you wanting the next book, pronto!

I am so grateful to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Full review and more here: Diary of a Nerdy Bookworm