Freaks of Honor

by Holly Dunwall

Two Wardens gather their strength, and a princess guards her heart…

We follow Maven and Bryce Blackwood, a father and daughter on a journey to redeem their guild and their tarnished family name. The catch? They need to escort the King's estranged daughter back to the capital city for reasons unknown. Nothing more and nothing less. But with growing feelings beginning to bloom between the two girls, tainted blood slowly boiling and a steady unease arising in Neros' citizens...

This will not be a standard escort mission for the two warriors.

A sapphic fantasy romance about defying fate and leaning into female rage... Don't forget to sharpen your blades for the monsters. Welcome to Neros!

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Lesbian, Ebooks, Romantasy, LGBT, Fantasy Romance

478 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 24, 2024

About the author

I'm Holly! I'm a Kiwi author living in the US! I write fantasy romance and anything to do with dragons and vampires.

When I'm not writing stories with neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ and plus-size characters finding their happy ever afters or concocting some bizarre horrors, I'm probably napping.

Reviews

[Unpopmary · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gave me serious Witcher vibes right from the start! We’ve got Maven and Bryce, a parent–daughter duo working as wardens, battling all kinds of creatures while trying to protect the princess of Neros — and survive in the process.

One of my favorite parts of the story was the strong father–daughter bond between Maven and Bryce. Their dynamic as wardens really shines, and Bryce is such a wonderful parental figure. Watching their journey together was genuinely heart-warming.

As for the romance, it’s definitely a slow burn, but it felt a bit underdeveloped in places. The enemies-to-lovers element especially could have been fleshed out more, as the shift from tension to love happened so quickly. The big love confession didn’t fully convince me. That said, their banter was adorable!

Another highlight was the character growth, particularly with Maven and Evelyn (the princess). Maven learns to accept the complexities of her warden bloodline and gains control over her powers, while Evelyn breaks free from her “snobbish royal” image and shows she’s much more than she first appears.

However, the writing felt slightly rough around the edges at times, and some dialogue was repetitive. I also wished for a more unique world, as some references reminded me of other fantasy stories I’ve read. But for a debut, it’s still a really fun ride with characters who stick with you.

If you enjoy action-packed fantasy with a touch of slow-burn romance and a strong parent–child bond (think The Witcher or Throne of Glass.
vibes), this one is definitely worth picking up!

[Yves V.H. [Slow reading] · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book so much. I thoroughly loved reading about their adventure. It's very entertaining and I like the development of the relationship between the two women because they started off despising each other. Then, because of a certain event, they understood each other and realized their true feelings; it's not forced or anything. I also love how accepting the father is of their relationship. I hate the king though. This book really brought up a lot of feelings while I was reading it; definitely worth the read.

Edit: added my favorite line

As much as she tried Maven couldn’t fight it off any longer. She desired the princess in every meaningful and sinful way her mind could possibly conjure up. The beautiful, complicated redhead had consumed her thoughts every night she tried to doze off to sleep.

Thank you, author, for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alyssa | catsandbookstacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Thank you to the author for the eARC.*

The Witcher, but make it a father/daughter escort quest, plus a sweet sapphic romance! Monster hunting, mages, politics, dragons blood, and female power & rage.

Holly Dunwall's debut, Freaks of Honor, was a pleasure to read. It reads like a homage to some of the fantasy worlds we're familiar with and does so with a sensitive and joyful queer lens. While escort quests in games can get terribly repetitive, this novel does not! With sweet moments of growth nestled between action scenes (as well as moments during), the journey is swift and fun.

The dynamics between Maven, a new Warden, and her hardened but tired warrior father, Bryce, created such feelings of warmth and love. Both Maven and Evelyn, the cargo for the escort quest, hadn't had easy upbringings with being placed outside of their regular circles. The women grew to understand and care for each other in a beautiful manner. Toby and his loyal "pup" Bruton were a delightful addition to the story.

There is one open door scene that, I believe, suited the characters perfectly.

I look forward to future books set in the world of Neros!

CW: abusive family dynamics (emotional abuse), anxiety, depression, self-harming tics, blood, blood magic, sexual content, threats of SA, body horror, violence

[The Freckled Cyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get it and read it, you won't be disappointed

In depth characters, great world building, and a plot that keeps your attention. I enjoyed the book and am glad I gave it a shot.

[Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Totally epic!

The characters are well written, the story flows from action to love and back again. I love the pace, the interactions of characters are entertaining and very human. I connected easily with the main characters and I could feel their fear, anger, sorrow and happiness. A really good and well written story.

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sapphic fantasy romance was entertaining throughout it's not a genre I generally go for, but this book was such a great read. I'm glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and read it.

I loved the relationship between Maven and Bryce. The farther daughter warden team was a force to be reckoned with! And bringing Tobias (Toby) into the mix and they are unstoppable.

The storyline is easy to follow and I thoroughly enjoyed it, it was engaging and entertaining and the build up in the relationship between Evelyn and Maven was beautifully written, the connection is sweet and there love for one anotheris undeniable. Im looking forward to reading more from these two in the future.

Thank you, Holly, for the ARC. This book comes on January 24th, so get it in your diaries now! I definitely recommend this book. If you like fantasy, it's a definite read, if you haven't trued thes genre before, it's a great step into the fantasy world.

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥 (one time but a great one time)

⚠️Content Warnings⚠️: Abusive family dynamics (emotional abuse), cursing, mental illness (anxiety, depression) anxiety attacks, self-harming tics, blood, blood magic, sexual content, threats of sexual assault in one scene, dismemberment/decapitation, violence, violence against women, body horror.

[Shelby · Rating 5 out of 5]

A incredible journey following the Nero’s wardens through a mission that defines the guild and the Blackwood family. What starts out as an annoying task to Maven Blackwood, turns into a journey defining the kind of warden Maven really is.

From a self doubting 19 year old warden, to embracing her dragons side, Maven’s character arc is hands down one of the BEST I’ve read.
Bryce is the MOST supportive father.

Evelyn, a princess turned mage goes from a timid, snobby character to THE MOST badass. She finds her voice, and proves to herself, and her kingdom that she is worthy & her father, the king is shit.

If you love D&D, critical role, and assistant to the villain - this is the book for you. Set aside uninterrupted time, and prepare to be on the edge of your seat. Holly could not have created a better debut book to bring into the world. I cannot wait to see what she does next

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This a great fun read. Think The Witcher with incredible, well written diversity and sapphic romance (without being too derivative!).

The female characters were particularly powerful, yet still relatable. I think my favourite character might have been Maven, but Evelyn’s growth throughout the story is definitely noteworthy. Also can’t forget Bryce, who I want to adopt me.

The action scenes were handled well, and kept up with the overall quick pace. I think D&D fans and gamers would enjoy this too.

So grateful that I got to read the ARC before this goes out to the rest of the world, thanks Holly! Her genuine passion for adventure and inclusion shone through so clearly.

[Kayla Canning · Rating 5 out of 5]

-ARC READER-

This story is for anyone who loved Fourth Wing, The Witcher or ACOTAR. I have never been more enveloped by a story than this one. It drags you in & holds you for every single page.

Holly kills this as her first story and I truly cannot wait for the next one. We get a strong FMC, and a sweet (but no-shit-taking MMC.) This story feels like a movie!

[Mariana Oliveira]

Dnf at 50%
It got a bit boring and I just kinda lost interest

[Holly Violet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this was a brilliant find! Loved this story, lots of twists and turns and fights and blood! I must say I really enjoyed it. They’ve even thrown some magic in there as well. If you’re a fan of fantasy and you’re not squeamish, then you should be reading this.

[Grace Leonora Griffiths · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had the honour of reading this as an ARC for an honest review.

I was gripped from the introduction. Made me feel like a storyteller was there, feeding me the back story.

Maven, a Nerosi Warden, embarks on a journey to take Evelyn back to her home city. They meet many monsters, human and otherwise, along the way. It's a journey of self discovery and love. It truly captures the readers emotions in the character build up and the background of the realm itself.
This is the first I've read by Holly Dunwell, I hope to read more stories from the realm of Nero's in the future

[Kari Grindel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a great book! I love me a good fantasy and the sapphic romance? *chef's kiss*

We follow an outcast and her father who are hired to transport "goods" from one place to the next. Turns out, those "goods" are the princess...

The princess has magical abilities and her father exiled her under the guise of getting a magic education. But now he wants her home and the journey getting there is anything but easy.

This journey is filled with fighting (both with each other and with others), tension, magic, but at the end of it, Maven and Evelyn realize that their differences don't have to keep them at odds with one another. They learn that differences can actually bring people together and sometimes, opposites attract.

I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a fantasy sapphic romance!

*In other news, this book also reminded me of Skyrim, which iykyk, and if you don't kindly ignore*

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so fantastic! It takes everything I love about a romantasy book- bodyguard trope, touch her and ☠️, magic and DRAGONS but it all feels so different being a FF romance.
Maven and Evelyn were wonderful main characters and I love how Holly made them so different but both so strong in their own right. I also loved that Maven's dad Bryce got to be part of the journey because he was awesome. And I loved his relationship with Maven and how he grew to be protective of Evelyn too. This had action and romance, a little bit of spice (could have done with a bit more 😉 but i didnt feel like anything was missing) and some great one liners! I hope we get to see more of these characters in the future.

I received an ARC for an honest review

[Bri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc reader review: Looking for a book with a little romance, a little action, a strong FMC, and DRAGONS? Then look no further than Holly Dunwall's Freaks of Honor.

With enough action to have you on the edge of your seat, sarcasm to make you laugh, and sapphic romance that makes you squeal; this book is the full package. Long enough to satisfy even the fastest of readers, but long winded this book has a little bit of something for everyone. Read in this book was like receiving a warm hug, a love letter from your crush, and sword fighting lessons all at once!

Thank you so much Holly for the honor ;) of reading this book before it's official release and I can't wait to see what else you have in that talented mind of yours!

[Lydia Beskalo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing

I absolutely loved reading this book. Watching the story unfold was wonderful. I can honestly say while I expected something bad to happen in the end I was absolutely not expecting what happened. I truly hope there is a sequel to this one. I would read it in an instant. Amazing work.

[Bobby L · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I gotta say is holly is an amazing writer! The main character I fell in love with I’ll definitely will be reading this book again that’s for sure! I would definitely reading your tw!

[Tristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly Dunwall's 'Freaks of Honor' is an enthralling addition to the fantasy romance genre, offering a rich tapestry of lore, compelling characters, and a beautifully developed sapphic romance. Set in the vividly imagined world of Neros, the story follows Maven and Bryce Blackwood, a father-daughter duo, on a mission that evolves into much more than a simple escort task.

From the outset, Dunwall's writing captivates with its descriptive narration and engaging dialogue. The lore surrounding Neros, with its Wardens, mages, and monsters, is intricately crafted, providing a robust backdrop for the unfolding story. The world-building is one of the book's strongest points, immersing readers in a realm that is both fantastical and meticulously detailed.

The characters are the heart of 'Freaks of Honor.' Each character is thoughtfully developed, with their growth throughout the story being particularly noteworthy. The journey of Maven and Evelyn, the two female main characters, is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making their evolving relationship a highlight of the narrative. Bryce, as a supportive and unproblematic father figure, breaks the mold of the typical fantasy trope and adds a refreshing dynamic to the story. Additionally, Toby, a loyal and helpful character, stands out as a beacon of positivity in a world where Wardens face adversity.

The action and fighting scenes in the book are vivid and immersive, skillfully written to transport readers directly into the heart of the conflict. These sequences are a testament to Dunwall's ability to balance intense action with character-driven storytelling.

Overall, 'Freaks of Honor' is a captivating read that I would highly recommend to fans of series like 'The Witcher' and 'Throne of Glass,' especially those seeking queer representation in the fantasy genre. The book's blend of monster-hunting adventure, intricate world-building, and tender romance makes it a standout, earning it a well-deserved 4 out of 5 stars. It's a testament to Dunwall's skill as a storyteller and her ability to weave a tale that is as much about heart and relationships as it is about battles and bravery.

[Dani · Rating 1 out of 5]

Moods: adventurous
Pace: fast
Character or plot driven? Plot
Strong character development? No
Loveable Characters? No
Diverse Characters? No
Are character flaws a main focus? Yes

I wanted to like this book, I really did, but it just was not a pleasant read. It had such potential. A sapphic bodyguard x princess with enemies to lovers in there? It sounds like a perfect premise.

The writing is just not ready to be published. There are so many sentences that completely broke my immersion since they made no sense and I’d have to go back a page to try figure out what the author was saying. The dialogue was stilted and unnatural. The build up of the friendship between the two characters was believable enough but the romantic relationship was entirely unearned. Evelyn suddenly deciding she was in love with Maven felt like a surprise and this is supposed to be their love story!!

The third person “omniscient” perspective was confusing and inconsistent. One moment we were seeing things from Maven’s POV and in the next paragraph it was Bryce. There were a few times where characters were reintroduced multiple times from different perspectives in the same chapter.

Some of the world building was also illusion-breaking. A town being called Portland made me feel like  the story was set in Oregon not a fantasy world. Also Spheria?? Is it an orb?? Please pick a better name. 

The ending was completely rushed and didn’t resolve anything. The couple ending up separated for an indefinite amount of time with a “well be together eventually” is not a HEA

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Freaks of Honor rivals classic fantastical journey tales, but adds what I've always craved: the female perspective. If you're looking for a tale of magic and monster hunting, sapphic romance, defying fate, female rage, and a bit of scales, you need Freaks of Honor!

I absolutely ADORED this book! The world-building was easy to follow and the plot had a great pace. The delivery of background information was seamless and never felt out of place. Freaks of Honor has all of the magical elements you could have asked for - dragons, necromancy, vampires, monster creatures, and magic. There's sapphic romance, adventuring, found family, adorable but vengeful animal companions, touch her and die, and so so much more.

I thoroughly enjoyed the Blackwood family dynamic. Many adventure tales focus on the journey and not who may be waiting for you at home. To have a glimpse into the Blackwood family's home is such a treat! There are also so many lovable characters within these pages, I couldn't name you one favorite.

In addition to the queer representation in Freaks of Honor, one of my favorite elements of this book is the reclaiming of the term "freak." Maven and Evelyn are both "othered" in their own ways, but it was heartwarming to read as they support each other, grow, and become prideful in their differences. This also strengthens their relationship which is so freakin' sweet. I absolutely love enemies/rivals to lovers and grumpy x sunshine and Holly didn't disappoint me.

Thank you so much Holly for allowing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Nicole · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was intrigued to pick up a sapphic romance with a female Warden, Maven who is half human and half dragon and human princess mage Evelyn. Maven is nineteen and has just been appointed as Warden but she is not accepted by most is her organisation or society. Both her father and het accept a mission to escort something important to the capital city.

That something is Evelyn, the exiled mage who is also daughter to the king.

The writing felt young (YA) but I did like the father and daughter bond between Maven and Bryce. It felt weird that she addresses him by his first name. Generally, the writing felt strange because there are scenes that are graphic and violent while at times, the author seems to hold back. The ILY came up quite fast.

Evelyn has anxiety and gets panic attacks at times. Maven gets stressed as she always has to hold back her negative emotions from fear of transforming.

I thought the world building was interesting, the relationships between the supporting characters heart warming especially Maven, her father and how he becomes a fatherly figure to Evelyn. The soft and supportive side he shows to his daughter felt unique especially with how she looks to him and leans on him for advice and reassurance.

The author goes further to show that the challenges her father and mother faced being together and having a child were alot and It was not just a HEA as her mother's body weakened after giving birth to Maven and it permanently affects her ability as a blacksmith. The tender moments between the two of them are sweet.

[Corinna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bryce and Serena Blackwood had a forbidden love with being warriors, and it resulted in having Maven (fmc) their daughter.
  Mavens first hunt was initiation into the guild of warriors just like her father. Just five days after her hunt they recieve a contract. They are to transport goods to the King. 
  The goods they are transporting isn't a thing, it's a who. A princess.  The lost princess Evelyn!
  The princess wants to know the names of the wardens she'll be traveling with. Bryce," of course, your highness. My name is Bryce Blackwood, and the sassy shithead there is Maven, my daughter."
  The words between these girls just makes you want to snort laugh and just sit back and watch them figure each other out.
  There's a dog they have to rescue along the way. It's a puppy. What kind of puppy? A cerberus! 
  Along their travels to deliver the princess they run into people giving the wardens looks of disgust, disdain, hatred with the rumors about the Blackwoods. All part of the job as wardens.This journey isn't going to be easy for them.
  After they deliver the princess to the king, the wardens have to travel back to the guild. Everything goes back to normal.

  Maven is summoned directly from the founder's of the guild when she is only but one day back. Something is happening back at the Kingdom and only Maven can finish what she started as being the bodyguard for the princess. The princess is saved and they live happily ever after. Yep, heard me correctly. The princess and the warden (wink).

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yess! This was such a surprisingly cute, emotional, funny and interesting read. I loved Maven and Evelyn’s story, it was a longer book but I got through it so quick, this was addicting to read.

The characters were well written and made me laugh, the world building was done really well, it was easy to picture the world and where I was / where they were travelling to.

This is a romantasy with 2 female main characters and the story mainly follows two dragon wardens, Maven and her dad Bryce, and a princess (Evelyn). The wardens accept a quest by the king to transport princess Evelyn back to the kingdom and the journey along the way is so fun to read, it was refreshing.

It is an adult, or new adult, read. There wasn’t a lot of spice but that was fine with me, there was one spicey scene and there was actually some good action in there as well, the rest either made me laugh, cry or everything else. This was really cute read I loved it!

[book_st_gram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holly, as wonderful as she is, could have chosen any human being on this land to read an ARC of her book, and it warms me up inside when I realize she chose me!

It didn’t take me that long to read and finish, it didn’t take me long at all, I easily fell into the world of Neros, it was such a different fantasy from what I’m used to reading, I completed related to the book in more ways than one, I found myself nodding along to so many lines and characters. The world building is amazing and there is a great story line there.


I absolutely adore Bryce, he was one of my favorites to read, have I got a slight crush? Possibly I won’t deny it, but the book is something I’m going to highly recommend people read because honestly Holly? Same.

[lifeasmegs_ · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off, thank you so much for the ARC Holly! I’m always honored when an author allows me to read and review their book 🥰 ok now onto the review…

I have to say I was a little nervous for this one! I’ve never really read a sapphic centered book before and I’m usually into more traditional romantasy style books but I truly enjoyed reading Freaks of Honor!
The action was near constant and I was never bored or finding myself wanting to skip ahead to the next chapter. It was actually the opposite, there were some points in the book where I wish the chapter was extended or there was a little more of the calm moments between everyone. But hey, if my only complaint is I want more of the book then it has to be a great read 😂 amazing job Holly, can’t wait to see what you write next!!

[Vervada · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot; it contained many interesting ideas, some quite lovable characters, some pretty thrilling battle scenes and decent world building, but, as some other reviewers have already mentioned, it needed to be better edited. The whole reason I deducted a star from the rating was the poor editing. In fact, I considered rating the book three stars because of it, but I did enjoy everything else and it is a debut. The ending wasn't quite a cliffhanger, but there's definitely going to be a sequel and if said sequel will be better edited then I'm pretty sure that it will be a five stars read.

There is a lot of potential here, it just needs some polishing up.

[Felisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m so glad and honored that I was able to get my hands on this book! Holly’s storytelling is absolutely beautiful. I could visualize each page with ease. I had personally hit a bit of a reading slump but once I read the summary, I knew I had to dive into the kingdom of Neros and I’m happy I did. Any time I sat down to read and looked at the time, I was surprised by how much had passed. I will definitely be doing a reread later this year. A sapphic romantasy that will capture your attention and keep you intrigued, I highly recommend.

[Frommailenesbookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for this ARC 🖤

I love dark romance, but sometimes I need something different before I can keep reading so much darkness, and this book hit the spot! This fantasy romance had everything I didn't know I needed! Maven is such a badass, and I loved that Evelyn was the only one who could rile her up and calm her down.

That ending was amazing, and the slowburn hit just right, too 👌🏼

🖤 Badass FMC
🖤 Saphic Romance
🖤 Touch Her and Die
🖤 Bodyguard x Princess
🖤 Mutual Pining
🖤 Slowburn Romance
🖤 Found Family
🖤 Dragons & Mages

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for sending me this ARC!

Wow... I loved this book! I went into this not expecting much (no offence) but I was pulled into this story, the dynamics, the DRAGONS!

Dragons are one of my favourite mythical creatures and I'm so glad at how well this was written out especially with the main character being part dragon!

I hope to see more of Mae and Evelyn, I can't wait to read more of Holly's work! 😁

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was absolutely lovely to read! It was almost like a D&D story, in a good way, because it was so full of adventure and different monsters to fight!

My favorite thing was the father-daughter bond between Bryce and Maven. They care so much about each other and it touched my heart to read about their relationship. The sapphic romance was very well written as well and the ending was exciting. I'll keep my eyes open for more books by this author!