A Fate of Onyx & Ivory

The Obsidian Blade #1

by O'Junea Brown

When twenty-four-year-old Amira must provide for her family, she finds herself making a bargain with a clever witch that could possibly alter her life forever. In her pursuit to return home, she crosses paths with a savior – a powerful faerie – that transports her to an alternate realm she never knew existed.
In a quest intwined with dark magic and immortality, Amira begins to question everything she has ever known. She’ll need to remain the fighter she’s always been while piecing together the truths that are hidden in the shadows of Solaris if she wants to survive.
With each day that passes she finds herself more attached to her new surroundings. Including the white-winged Fae that unexpectedly entered her life. Will she become a permanent part of his lavish world or return to a life of poverty in the mortal realm to reunite with her family? Amira’s decision won’t be easy; deciphering between lust and fate.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance, Magic, Fae, Dark Fantasy

268 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2024

About the author

O'Junea Brown is an emerging author of Romantasy. A Fate of Onyx and Ivory is her first published novel with many more to come. She was born and raised in the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois.

She loves her books, comics, video games, sports (go Cubs!), and anything fitness related. O'Junea has a bit too much dark humor and somewhat of a sailor's mouth, but her husband loves her the way that she is and that's all that matters.

Her baby boy Phoenix and dog Khloe are her only babies.

Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @fit.and.fiction

Reviews

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can tell from reading this one that this will be a fantastic series! Right when I started it, I was just getting back into the fantasy era so honestly it couldn’t have come at the best time. And while this book certainly has everything a fantasy lover could as for it’s not as intimidating because it’s under 300 pages. I think it would be PERFECT for anyone who is new to the genre. Anways, this book has it all. A bright new world with vivid descriptions, witches, fae, magic, and one badass female lead. There’s mystery and you’re going to have some trust issues (who is good and who is bad can be hard to decipher) but it’s an incredible journey and I look forward to seeing what comes next for Amira.

If you’re looking to dabble in the genre and don’t want something that will keep you occupied for days or weeks at a time, then this book would be a great starter. Now, there are a LOT of different characters which can sometimes make it hard to follow but I feel like they all add something to the story that’s important.

𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

[Margaret Samora · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW 🫶🏽 THIS WILL BE THE ROMANTASY OF 2024 MARK MY WORDS 🫡

A Fate of Onyx & Ivory (The Obsidian Blade Series Book 1) by O’Junea Brown ✨

5 FULL FREAKING STARS ⭐️

I absolutely love Amira. She is fierce, takes no BS, and just straight perfection! A debut novel that will leave you wanting book 2 ASAP. The twists were twisting, the characters were complex and everything a reader wants out of a fantasy novel, and the world building makes it feel like you’re seeing a movie in your head!

Seriously. I loved this so much!!! I can’t wait to read more of O’Junea! And the cover??? Literally STUNNING!!!

Tropes:
- dark romantasy
- fae & witches
- fantastic world building
- large cast of characters and all are incredibly well written
- fast paced & quick read
- plot twists you don’t see coming

[Coco · Rating 1 out of 5]

I couldn’t get through it.

The story felt a bit chaotic and the characters were immature and did things that were nonsensical to me. Like early on, the mom slapped her daughter for no reason, never apologizes, but reunites with her as if they’re a happy family and nothing happened…then after chatting for a bit her and her siblings who are 20+ years old ask their mom to tell them a story.

[Gabi Koz · Rating 1 out of 5]

Unfortunately, this book was not for me 😭

Though it is labeled as a dark(ish) romantasy, I did not get that vibe at all. The first 30% of the book felt very juvenile even though the FMC is 24 years old. All of the 20+ year old children lived with the parents, and at one point, they asked the mom for a bedtime story ….. the parents, her mom’s bedtime stories, & “how she was raised” were referenced many times which made it feel very YA. But then there would randomly be mentions of her having s*x with “many men”…!?

By the time we finally met the love interest, I was already struggling a lot with the juvenile nature of the writing and elements of the story.

I really wish I liked this one more. 1/5⭐️

[kalypso · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was SO, So good. I devoured it. The plot twists were *chefs kiss*. I was literally on edge the entire time trying to figure out the next move. Amira is a fucking badass, she's perfect. For this being this author's FIRST book, it was amazing. I was drawn in immediately and her world building and writing style kept me interested the whole book.

[Disgusted Reader · Rating 2 out of 5]

Pacing needs work

[ms.Violetg Likes To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

"…listen to me. And listen to me carefully. There is no one in this realm or universe that can take you from meI will tear anyone and anything apart that looks in your direction without asking you first. Do you understand me?"

All of my love and thank you O'Junea Brown for giving us A Fate of Onyx & Ivory!

This debut fantasy romance released today and blew me away! The plot, the immaculate pacing, the world building, the family dynamics, the intrigue of each character as their personalities developed. I loved it all!

And y'all! The banter and tension was top tier and so much fun! I literally cackled, side eyed, and annotated more in this beautiful fantasy romance more than I have in a long time!

I loved Amira's own strengths, how she could give as good as she got! And the twists and turns in this story! I ate up every moment while being all in my feels. can not wait to see where this author takes us in this series

A Fate of Onyx & Ivory is available today on the Zon and KU! I definitely recommend diving in as soon as possible!

[Nicola Cox · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 I had high hopes for this book as I’d heard great things but I just didn’t connect with the characters until around the 70% mark that’s when the plot started to twist and gain my attention I can’t put my finger on it but this book just lacked something maybe it was the pacing because for the most part nothing in this book was happening and with it being the first book in a series it should of been setting up for the next book I feel I don’t truly know the characters it was a disappointing read I might still pick up book 2 but that’s only because of the way this one ended

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been sitting on this for two weeks and because I still keep thinking about it I am bumping it up to a 5 star.

TYSM for the ARC because I ate it up, I was messaging O'Junea throughout my read telling her my theories and sending her my chaotic notes while reading 😅 this was SUCH a fun debut novel!

Our story begins with Amira making a bad deal with a witch and ends up getting saved by Raine and learns there are other realms. I don’t want to spoil anything because I promise you will be debating these characters, their intentions, and what is really happening. This story had me HOOKED and let me tell the ending….MA’AM! You learn the truth of what was happening and then get a nice little twist.

I will be needing this next book asap because I need to know what is going to happen next. Plus I need more Anya because I have a feeling she will be a big role in this against the death dealer!

Read if you like:
💫Fae, humans, & witches
🩶Bipoc characters
❤️‍🔥Lustful *enemies*
🖤Dark secrets

[TwinTLC · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW: A Fate of Onyx & Ivory
(The Obsidian Blade Series Book 1) by O'Junea Brown

Thank you Meg Opalescent for the ARC copy!

4 ⭐️: You will go throughout the entirety of this book, changing your mind and your perception of every character. Are they a friend? Not a friend? Wait, are they good or are they bad? Who is this new person?

This book just keeps you guessing and on your toes, until the very last chapter!!

For those who like, fast moving stories: ✔️
Twist and turns: ✔️
Romantasy: ✔️

I cannot wait for book 2!! I need to continue reading how this story unfolds. By the end, I couldn't put the book down!

Well done O'Junea on your first book!
Well done!!!

[Jess Morrison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Normally I’m not one for a small book, but this was an exception! I feel like this book could have been another 250 pages bigger but only in a good way, just to drag it out a bit more and have a bit more tension. I had a lot of problems with things throughout the book but that last 20% really made everything make sense and I can’t wait for book 2 😍

[L. Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

5

A debut novel where the author means business! This novel has everything a romantasy lover could ever want: a new world to discover, witches, fae, action, romance, spice, deceit, a cat with green eyes! I can't say enough what a treat it's been to read this novel.

I think the best place to start with this review is the cover. I mean... how gorgeous! More than that, how beautiful to see a dark skinned black woman in fantasy. While we are seeing more of it, we aren't seeing enough of it and I love the representation. The cover matches the book, because Amira is a strong, beautiful character. She rises to any and all challenges, and I can't fault her for vomiting at the climax of the novel because I would've long before that moment (no spoilers... you gotta read the book to find out.)

This book has a large cast, and that can be hard to manage. It was done incredibly well in this novel. Every character was different, and every character gave their own vibe. I loved how the author could make me love a character and, at the same time, feel suspicious of them. While some were easier to see through, there were definitely a fair number who could've gone either way. It was a pleasure to get to enjoy the tug and pull on my feelings toward the various characters. I'm going to say it--- Raya is an amazing side character.

The world-building is well done. Every scene of this novel is portrayed in beautiful, vivid pictures, and I felt like I was there.

Overall, this is an incredible debut novel. It ends on a cliffhanger, and I wonder what is next for poor Amira, who has been through it! If you're like me and don't read a lot of fantasy, this is the perfect novel for you. It's fast-paced, the world-building and magic systems are easy to understand, and the plot is easy to follow. It really allowed me to fully immerse myself in the story, and I love that I didn't have to flip back to try and remember things! It was very well done!

I loved every minute of this book and am thankful for this author in allowing me to be a part of her journey. If you take nothing from this review other than the desire to read this, then I'll feel I've done my job. This book is incredible, and you won't regret picking it up (except maybe the sleepless nights, but hey! We're readers! It's what we do!)

[Chelsea (thatbookishteach) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a beautiful romantasy read and easily kept my attention throughout. There were so many characters to love and the world building and imagery made it super easy to picture what was happening in your head. Poor Amira just wanted to help her family and got a shitty bargain with a witch and next thing she knows, she's finding out all kinds of previously unknown things. It does end on a cliffhanger which has me itching for what's next! There are lots of mysterious pieces and things you TRY to figure out but guess what? You don't actually know what's going on lol and that's the best kind of story to me!

[Amoyisreadingxoxo · Rating 5 out of 5]

The twists and turns in this book?! Amira is THAT GIRL, and you can’t tell me otherwise🙂‍↔️

The plot was PLOTTINGGG in this one honey, and genuinely had me reading so fast to see what happened next lol. Amira is so strong-willed, and I loved how she handled each situation she found herself in. I had moments where I was cackling, but also side-eying the hell out of this characters, and I wouldn’t want it any other way lol! Amira’s world is not holding her back, and she stayed head strong to her end goal. She takes NO B.S. from anyone, so if you think about getting in her way?! Yeahhhhh I would reconsider😌✨

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my goodness!! This book kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! So many twists. I love the MFC Amira because she is a badass and curvy.

Also, I like that it didn’t just have fae characters who have special abilities, there are also witches and magic in this amazing world that O’Junea has beautifully built. I cannot wait for the second book to come out already 😂

[Madison Abell · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️ the writing seemed very “new” and immature? I’m not sure how to explain it. Words were misspelled or used incorrectly, use of cuss words just to use them, etc. The book wasn’t completely horrible, and was almost a 3 star until chapter 35 or so. Adding the hints of r*pe or taking advantage of someone wasn’t necessary at all, and really rubbed me the wrong way. The ending was good, and I didn’t expect the full plot twist, but i don’t think I’ll continue on in the series.

[Shandalyn GodnBooksnThings · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so intrigued with this story. I was thrown off by the main character as the person I met at the start of the book did Not match her character she was in the Fae land (which pissed me off), but towards the end it all made sense as to why her characteristics changed. Now, the new character’s……I can’t Wait for book 2.

[Talitha · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️
✨ 💖 🖤Dark romantasy, ACOTAR vibes and plot twists. Would read the next book.

[Jaclyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this author’s first published book. Lots of twists and turns kept me guessing what would come next! So much action and a strong female lead character figuring out how to navigate a new world. I will be interested to see where the series goes next!

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first started this book, I couldn’t help but notice similarities to another series I recently finished—and I was skeptical. Was this going to follow the same path?

Still, I decided to give it a chance, and I’m glad I did. It took me a while to warm up to Amira (our lead), mostly because she came off as overly trusting and immature. But by the end, it clicked into place—and I understood why she was that way. Her arc made sense, even if it was frustrating at times.

This book tries to pack a lot of worldbuilding into under 300 pages, and while I still have some lingering questions, I’m hopeful they’ll be explored in book two. The plot definitely takes some sharp turns (a few of them very sharp), but it kept me engaged, especially in the second half.

Excited to see where the story goes next—and grateful to have an ARC of book two ready to dive into

[Coco TheChaoticLibrarian_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever watched Wizards of Waverly Place? Well this is nothing like that. But “every thing is not what it seems.” I was so excited but also very hurt by this book. Excited because this is one that kept me on my toes and head me pouring tea for real because of the way this story was built up and the had me struggling to anticipate the next move was expertly done. However i was also hurt because home girl was so naive and also a little too trusting.
This was just as much a mystery as it was a traitorous romance. Something could mean nothing or it could mean absolutely everything. I loved how I was kept guessing and left out of the know with only slight clues and vague hints. I wanted to like certain characters and mark them as a favorite or ally but just as quickly I was proven wrong. The author did a masterful job at forcing you to pay complete attention to the things you read and hang on to every word because you may need to understand them later.
Talk about full immersion i totally lost myself in this book and that ending? A volatile cocktail or love lies and deception. I cannot wait for more.

[Kaitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is advertised as enemies to lovers, but I would not classify this as romantasy. Is it spicy? Yes, and it is a dark fantasy for sure, but there is no HEA at the end of this book. However, it is the first book in a series and because of that, While I personally don’t agree with the use of those tropes to describe it, it might end up with romance in later books. It is also this author's debut novel and I think that’s an incredible accomplishment in and of itself.

I will start off by saying I enjoyed the main character, Amira quite a bit. She has a dirty mouth that she isn't ashamed of, she’s feisty, unapologetic in her sexuality and she knows how to hold her own in a fight. She also suffers from panic attacks, and it does seem like something the author is familiar with, because they do feel real.

The story itself is what I have come to expect as far as fae fantasy. There are bargains and secrets, food that you shouldn’t eat, otherworldly realms and lots of extravagant magic. There are even witches, which I thought was an interesting addition.

In my opinion, there are a lot of great ideas in this book, but I think that it’s just too short to implement them in a way that fully benefits the story that’s being told. I found myself wanting to know more about certain characters and other aspects of the world, and I wish that Amira had more time to explore and uncover these secrets gradually. I personally think fantasy/romantasy needs to be longer than 270 pages. We aren’t just dealing with romance and relationships, but entirely new worlds and characters that interact on a completely different level than we are used to.

That being said, these are just my honest opinions as this book was shared with me for review purposes. I do think there are a lot of people who will love this story and will enjoy that it is short and easy to finish in a day.

I would also like to thank the author for allowing me to read an early copy.

[Ali ✨ lehabahslibrary · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW - no spoilers

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️

I knew this book was gonna be awesome when the dedication was “for the girls that got knocked down nine times and stood up the tenth time without any help.”

I was so happy I was chosen for this ARC, because I was so excited when I read the blurb. And I was NOT disappointed. Immediately the book starts out with stuff going on, and I instantly felt a connection to the main character, Amira. She was likeable, witty, strong, and funny. And I liked the sneak peek into her family dynamics. I could only post a few quotes with this because everything else I had highlighted was very spoiler-y and this is a book you don't want spoiled for you. The twists will twist. I was shook at the end of the book. I gave it 4.5 stars simply because I was a little lost at a few parts and also I needed *more* from the two main characters, but I can't get into that without spoiling, so I won't. I also know (well, assume lol) that the second book is going to give me a lot of answers and so I think that this really laid a good foundation down for what is to come. It was also great to read a fantasy book with a BIPOC FMC, because sadly you just don't see it a lot, and ALL characters from ALL backgrounds deserve hype and love. Representation matters. One of my best friends has had a hard time getting into fantasy because she is just tired of all the main characters being blonde, white girls, and I get it! I already sent this book her way because I think she's gonna love Amira. It's honestly hard not to. I can't wait for my friends to read this too because I need to discuss what happens with Raine with other people. I’m very excited for book 2 because that ending was NUUTTSSSSS!!!!

I wish I could share the graphics I made for my review on here, but you can go see them on my IG if you *want* 🥹🩵
@lehabahslibrary

[Tye · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐ ½ (3.5/5 stars)

A Fate of Onyx & Ivory introduces us to a fantastical world where magic and destiny intertwine. The story centers on Amira, a 24-year-old who, in an effort to support her family, strikes a deal with a cunning witch. This decision propels her into an alternate realm, Solaris, where she encounters a powerful faerie and confronts challenges that test her resilience and her trust in reality.

The novel’s strength lies in its imaginative world-building. Solaris is depicted with vivid detail, immersing readers in a realm filled with dark magic and immortal beings. Amira’s journey of self-discovery and her internal struggles add depth to her character, making her relatable as she grapples with her sense of duty and burgeoning desires. She is an easily likable character that readers can empathize with from the beginning, though a few of her decisions are questionable.

The narrative occasionally leans on familiar fantasy tropes, and some plot developments are predictable. The very intense enemies to lovers romantic subplot is interesting at times and there were unexpectedly spicy scenes throughout the story.

Overall, A Fate of Onyx & Ivory offers an engaging adventure with a promising premise. It’s an enjoyable read for those who appreciate tales of magic, self-discovery, and romance. It was quick, relatively light, and the ending left me wanting more. I look forward to the next installment of this series.

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fae Romantasy that is heavy on the enemies to lovers and not on the romance. Lust? yes. Romance? nope. Amira the FMC does take some getting used to. She has a smart mouth, she's sarcastic, a bada** but her attitude leaves little to be desired. I get it; she helps to take care of her family with no help from her siblings, but no one is forcing her to do these things.

This book has all the makings of a Fae Romantasy without the romance. Fae deals, delicious food that one should be leary of, deception, manipulation and abuse of power. This is ending on a good segue setting up book 2 but there are so many unanswered questions: Who is Amira really? Why did Raine chose her in his evil plot? What connection if any does she have with immortal beings when she is a human....allegedly. Who are all of the key players in this Fae world?

For a Fae Romantasy this book was really short for all of the complexities that went into the various things this story touched on; it felt like it was missing something. It was still and enjoyable read and that ending made me hotter than fish grease but all in all it was a good debut book. Now I just need book 2 to see how this is all going to come full circle.

[Sincenobodyasked__ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did not expect to get through this book in less than a day practically! The way it ended has me so ready for the next one and this book only just released a month ago 🥲 I will say I do kind of wish the book itself was longer and we got a little more detail in certain parts. I enjoyed the way the book started and then when we got to Solaris I felt a little disconnected from it. It felt like things were moving a little fast without enough time to become invested in the characters or what was going on. There was just something missing that I couldn’t quite put my finger on. I was confused by how some things were playing out, but by the end those things were explained and made more sense. I wish we got more action than just in the beginning and end, but I hope in the books to come we’ll get a little more than that. There’s so many questions that need answers and between that and the cliffhanger ending, you can’t help but look forward to book two. Overall though I did enjoy this book and feel it was a great debut! Will most definitely be continuing this series as more books release. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ Spice: .5🌶️

eads up/Good to Know: Vulgar Language, Graphic Violence/Murder, Sexual Content, Sexual Assault (implied, but not graphically depicted), Map Included, Playlist included,

[Tracy - loves to read · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had no idea


I had no idea that I was picking up such an incredible book when I chose A Fate of Onyx and Ivory based purely on the cover. I don’t even remember if I grabbed it during BRAE or another time, but it sat on my shelf for months waiting to be read. I’m so glad I finally picked it up—this book was amazing.

The story felt fresh and original, and it had been a while since I’d read a truly captivating fae-centered story. Raine had my mind just as twisted as Amira’s—and I didn’t even eat the fruit! That plot twist completely caught me off guard. I knew something was off about Eryx, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on it—mostly because I already knew he was a piece of work. Raya, though? A real one.

What I appreciated most was that Amira wasn’t a weak FMC. From chapter one, she was a fighter. While she did get swept up in the rapture of love, the awakening that followed was harsh and eye-opening. Raine was absolutely more than he appeared to be, and the way the characters were written made every revelation hit harder. Secrets, lies, subterfuge, half-truths, deception—and magic—were layered beautifully throughout the story.

Overall, this was a really good read, and I’m genuinely glad I gave it a chance.

[Raven · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really, really, really wanted to love this. I truly did. The story felt like it was trying to give ACOTAR vibes, and I really appreciated that.

There were two things that really stopped me from appreciating this, and that was the writing style and the characters.

The writing style of this is very tell, not show. It falls in line with the length of the book, but everything feels like it needs further explanation and detail.

Some parts of the pacing felt off where it dragged in the beginning, then picked up and then dragged again.

I also didn't like the twist progression as it didn't feel natural and just relied on people not saying every bit of information. If you read it, this will make more sense.

The characters also didn't feel well developed and even childish at times.

However. I understand this is a debut novel, and there is real potential here. However, it felt like this book needs one or two more rewrites and more detail to really bring it all together.

I also really wanted to love the twist, but it was something that felt obvious.

Overall, 2.5/5 stars. I'm excited to see more of what this author brings, but this book wasn't for me.

[Marlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
* Fated mates
* Strangers to lovers
* Fae and witches
* Badass FMC

Favorite Quote:
“My mother used to tell me that like the lotus flower that is born out of mud, we too must honor the darkest parts of ourselves and the most painful of our life’s experiences, because they’re what allow us to birth our most beautiful selves.”

My Thoughts:
This book was a breath of fresh air. A lot books feel like they’re just checking trope boxes. This book did not feel like that to me. The friendship between Raya and Amira was giving life. At points there was a pulling of good and evil for Amira and she couldn’t seem to see through the fog. At points I was like what’s is going on and then at the end I was like ooooh it was intentional by the author & I LOVED that. The plot twist was twisty, & the betrayal that happened had me feeling betrayed! I cannot wait to read book 2 and see where O’Junea takes it!

[Whitney Grant · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a great story and easy to follow along. I also appreciate the length of this book. I don’t know how to describe it but there didn’t seem to be a lot of world building but at the same time it was like this whole book was world building. I believe it’s because the main FMC was essentially sheltered from the real world growing up and the story is told in her POV. Overall this was not a spicy book but the tension was there and there are a couple spicy scenes. Warning: this does NOT have a HEA. This ends in a cliffhanger and honestly this book feels just like one giant tease because sh*t hits the fan at the end. I cannot see what homegirl Amira goes through next. Also I do recommend looking over the map. It’s not needed but I did catch some things that added meaning to things said. Looking forward to the next book!