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Our Radiant Embers
Their rivalry? Explosive. Their chemistry? Magical.
When a regrettable drunken hookup becomes your partner in a high-stakes magical project, sparks are bound to fly—just not the kind Liam Morgan was hoping for. Teaming up with Adam Harrington, the golden boy of a legendary magical lineage, was not on his to-do list.
Adam, the epitome of tailored perfection, has accepted the need to lock his true self in the closet. Liam, on the other hand, wears his nonconformity like a badge of honour, challenging the elite’s silken norms with every step he takes.
Tasked with revolutionising urban development in an eco-friendly manner, their forced collaboration is marked by snark, resentment, and a magnetic undercurrent of attraction. But as their reluctant partnership turns into a bond that’s hard to deny, a plot for power simmers, threatening to unleash chaos that could sweep the city into a maelstrom of uncontrolled magic.
This contemporary magical realism MM romance interweaves snappy banter, enemies to lovers, and political intrigue with a slow-burn kind of love that can save a city.
When a regrettable drunken hookup becomes your partner in a high-stakes magical project, sparks are bound to fly—just not the kind Liam Morgan was hoping for. Teaming up with Adam Harrington, the golden boy of a legendary magical lineage, was not on his to-do list.
Adam, the epitome of tailored perfection, has accepted the need to lock his true self in the closet. Liam, on the other hand, wears his nonconformity like a badge of honour, challenging the elite’s silken norms with every step he takes.
Tasked with revolutionising urban development in an eco-friendly manner, their forced collaboration is marked by snark, resentment, and a magnetic undercurrent of attraction. But as their reluctant partnership turns into a bond that’s hard to deny, a plot for power simmers, threatening to unleash chaos that could sweep the city into a maelstrom of uncontrolled magic.
This contemporary magical realism MM romance interweaves snappy banter, enemies to lovers, and political intrigue with a slow-burn kind of love that can save a city.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2024
89 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Zarah Detand
23 books443 followersWriter of M/M romances. Chaos monkey. Coffee snob. Cheese is her love language.
People in love with other people is her jam, with a particular penchant for snappy dialogue and a slow burn that is all the more satisfying once it finally catches fire. Playing with tropes of the famous-meets-non-famous variation? Bring it on! Fake relationships? Yes, please. All's fair as long as everyone gets their happy ending.
People in love with other people is her jam, with a particular penchant for snappy dialogue and a slow burn that is all the more satisfying once it finally catches fire. Playing with tropes of the famous-meets-non-famous variation? Bring it on! Fake relationships? Yes, please. All's fair as long as everyone gets their happy ending.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
May 25, 2024
ETA: As is apparent from my exchange with Zarah Detand in the comments, she has addressed some of the points that troubled me and asked with apparent sincerity for clarification of one she didn't understand. I'm leaving the original text here, but with strikethrough, and I've now given the book a star rating. I do remain uneasy about Set Fire to This Cardhouse, but I really appreciate the author's openness to discussion.
The good stuff: I believed in Liam and Adam's mutual attraction and in the growth of their affection and trust in each other; Zarah Detand doesn't do that tiresome, lazy romance-author thing of treating six-packs and dick size as if they amounted to characterization. I got invested in the plot, too -- in particular, the question of how Adam could possibly wriggle out from under his awful family, and of course what was going on with Liam's magic. In the end I thought the former question was answered a bit too conveniently, not to mention that the inequitable power structures seem to remain intact although nicer people now inhabit them.
Well, this is a romance, so too bad for me if I'm also in the middle of George Monbiot and Peter Hutchison's new book on neoliberalism. Talk about the wrong lens.
But was it the wrong lens?
A drip-drip-drip of tiny things, none of which amounted to much by itself, but which taken together got my ears pricked. And then I started thinking about Detand's "Set Fire to This Cardhouse" and its completely uncomplicated relationship with government-authorized extrajudicial killing. Mainly of brown people.
Also, I'm 99.5% sure that a butler would be addressed as Mr. + his surname, not as "Gary."
Thanks to GRR for the ARC, and to the author for addressing my concerns.
November 3, 2024
3.5 stars
You like magic and magical societies?
You like enemies to lovers?
You like actual relationship building?
You like three dimensional side characters?
Fancy a trip to London?
Read this.
Detand’s strong suit is in character development.
Took some time to really get into it and I lost my attention span at around 70% so I skimmed to the end. It might just be a little longer than necessary.
You like magic and magical societies?
You like enemies to lovers?
You like actual relationship building?
You like three dimensional side characters?
Fancy a trip to London?
Read this.
Detand’s strong suit is in character development.
Took some time to really get into it and I lost my attention span at around 70% so I skimmed to the end. It might just be a little longer than necessary.
May 26, 2024
"I knew I'd have to let him go eventually. But for now, I smiled back and kept holding onto him, to this moment."
Let me start by saying this is my first PNR book by Zarah Detand and after finishing I can honestly say I will be keeping an eye out in the future. I love me some enemies to lovers. Throw in some magic and I am here for it! I really enjoyed the evolution of Adam and Liam's relationship. They started off hating each other based on quite a few assumptions without actually knowing each other at all. Every time they were in a room together the snark flew. To be fair, that wasn't something that changed when they became a couple. The snark just got a bit more sexually charged. Which again, I am here for!
The more time they spent together working on a project, the easier it was for them to see how wrong about one another they were. And that would be all well and good, if what they started to feel for each other was just a good friendship. Yes, the magical community would still have given serious side eye that Adam, one of the most powerful magic users in London, was friends with Liam. Liam, who came from a "lower class" magical family. But the biggest issue is that Liam is an out gay man, which is a big deal in a magical community still rooted in bigotry. These two were doomed from the get go and that's not even counting the fact that Adam has a very public girlfriend.
"I'm well aware that if it comes down to a choice, it won't be me."
Adam's situation really hurt my heart. I had my doubts whether or not he was going to break free from his familial chains, so to speak. These two were just so good together. I was rooting for them the entire time so when it came time for their inevitable HEA I was pretty damn happy with how it all turned out. I hope this author continues writing in this magical universe and if so I will definitely be reading them. Especially if a certain french man gets a book!
Let me start by saying this is my first PNR book by Zarah Detand and after finishing I can honestly say I will be keeping an eye out in the future. I love me some enemies to lovers. Throw in some magic and I am here for it! I really enjoyed the evolution of Adam and Liam's relationship. They started off hating each other based on quite a few assumptions without actually knowing each other at all. Every time they were in a room together the snark flew. To be fair, that wasn't something that changed when they became a couple. The snark just got a bit more sexually charged. Which again, I am here for!
The more time they spent together working on a project, the easier it was for them to see how wrong about one another they were. And that would be all well and good, if what they started to feel for each other was just a good friendship. Yes, the magical community would still have given serious side eye that Adam, one of the most powerful magic users in London, was friends with Liam. Liam, who came from a "lower class" magical family. But the biggest issue is that Liam is an out gay man, which is a big deal in a magical community still rooted in bigotry. These two were doomed from the get go and that's not even counting the fact that Adam has a very public girlfriend.
"I'm well aware that if it comes down to a choice, it won't be me."
Adam's situation really hurt my heart. I had my doubts whether or not he was going to break free from his familial chains, so to speak. These two were just so good together. I was rooting for them the entire time so when it came time for their inevitable HEA I was pretty damn happy with how it all turned out. I hope this author continues writing in this magical universe and if so I will definitely be reading them. Especially if a certain french man gets a book!
May 25, 2024
In a world where magic users and non-magic users intermingle, secrecy and lineage are important to maintain magical power within select families. Adam Harrington is from one of those families, and as the only person of his generation with any notable power, his familial expectations are sky high. He definitely isn't allowed to be gay, and he absolutely can’t fall for someone from a third-rate family.... Someone like Liam, whose power has always been unremarkable. The two go their separate ways after a boozy hookup, their dislike for each other intact despite their undeniable chemistry. When they're paired up to work on a project, that chemistry flares red hot again. The difference is that this time, it comes with a mutual respect and understanding that changes everything.
Our Radiant Embers is ridiculously endearing, humorous and overall quite well crafted. I loved the enemies to lovers and forced proximity tropes, and the creativity of mixing magic with technology. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will definitely look for more from Zarah Detand.
Rating: 4.5 rounded up
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
"God, he was infuriating. He carried himself with all the inbred entitlement of his family clout, a prince amongst commoners. Dark curls and hazel eyes that watched me with thinly veiled derision, and if I squinted just right, the warm orange glow of his magic was so bright it bordered on blinding. Fun fact, though? He'd just about melted into me when I'd dragged my teeth along his throat"
Our Radiant Embers is ridiculously endearing, humorous and overall quite well crafted. I loved the enemies to lovers and forced proximity tropes, and the creativity of mixing magic with technology. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will definitely look for more from Zarah Detand.
Rating: 4.5 rounded up
Angst: 3.5/5
Steam: 3/5
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
July 31, 2024
Why do I like older MCs, you ask? I don't like when they're younger and make reckless decisions for love because they don't yet grasp the repurcussions. I want them to know exactly how what they're doing would fuck shit up. Then do it anyway.
Seeing the magical aspects in the blurb, I picked this up in spite of that, because I usually love this author's books.
Finding out that the MCs were 29 and 30? That was the first plus in a long list of pluses for this book.
I loved how they got to know each other slowly, hesitantly and I could see their feelings develop from attraction, to grudging admiration, to friendship and finally to love.
I loved that they were old(er) and yet loved like they'd never experienced hurt. No holds barred, even though they knew they couldn't possibly last.
I LOVED that the love declaration didn't equal automatic forgiveness and slate wiped clean trust from the other. That slightly petty passive aggressive thing he does to rub it in? Big fan.
Things got a little bit too out there for me towards the peak of the subplot conflict, which I'm a bit meh on(because again —me and magic don't really mesh), but I generally really loved this.
Seeing the magical aspects in the blurb, I picked this up in spite of that, because I usually love this author's books.
Finding out that the MCs were 29 and 30? That was the first plus in a long list of pluses for this book.
I loved how they got to know each other slowly, hesitantly and I could see their feelings develop from attraction, to grudging admiration, to friendship and finally to love.
I loved that they were old(er) and yet loved like they'd never experienced hurt. No holds barred, even though they knew they couldn't possibly last.
I LOVED that the love declaration didn't equal automatic forgiveness and slate wiped clean trust from the other. That slightly petty passive aggressive thing he does to rub it in? Big fan.
Things got a little bit too out there for me towards the peak of the subplot conflict, which I'm a bit meh on(because again —me and magic don't really mesh), but I generally really loved this.
February 4, 2025
4+
Mam słabość do książek tej autorki 😁
To kolejna bardzo dobra historia, która wyszła spod jej pióra.
Współczesny Londyn, magia, o której widzą nieliczni (nie licząc oczywiście tych, którzy nią władają 😉), wielki projekt eko, który ma opierać się na połączeniu magii i współczesnej technologii oraz dwóch facetów, którzy mają ten projekt poprowadzić - nie są szczęśliwi z tego powodu, bo muszą połączyć to, co najlepsze ze swoich indywidualnych projektów w jeden. Adam to potomek magicznej błękitnej krwi, Liam to raczej średniak z dolnej granicy. Dla tego pierwszego i jego rodziny to najzwyczajniej w świecie afront, dla tego drugiego to szansa na pokazanie się i zaistnienie w swoim świecie. Żaden nie ma dobrego zdania o tym drugim. Dodatkowo sprawę komplikuje fakt, iż rok wcześniej nasi panowie po pijaku, po ciemku, w samochodzie zaliczyli klasyczny jednorazowy, szybki numerek. I choć Liam nie kryje się ze swoją seksualnością, to Adam, cóż... wystarczy powiedzieć, że świat ludzi magii jest baaaaardzo konserwatywny pod tym względem, a on należy do jednej z najpotężniejszych i najstarszych rodzin w Londynie 😉
Świetnie napisane enemies-to-lovers, ich związek i droga do niego jest bardzo wiarygodna. Jedyny zgrzyt to ich "obowiązkowe" rozstanie, które było zupełnie niepotrzebne i wzięte tak trochę z czterech liter - za to odejmuję pół gwiazdki, choć w ogólnym rozrachunku nie ma to zupełnie znaczenia, bo i tak zaokrąglam w górę 😁
Do tego humor, który mi odpowiada i jeszcze tak naprawdę cała masa innych rzeczy - i dla mnie to kolejna książka Zarah Detand, która zdecydowanie trafia w mój gust 😁
Mam słabość do książek tej autorki 😁
To kolejna bardzo dobra historia, która wyszła spod jej pióra.
Współczesny Londyn, magia, o której widzą nieliczni (nie licząc oczywiście tych, którzy nią władają 😉), wielki projekt eko, który ma opierać się na połączeniu magii i współczesnej technologii oraz dwóch facetów, którzy mają ten projekt poprowadzić - nie są szczęśliwi z tego powodu, bo muszą połączyć to, co najlepsze ze swoich indywidualnych projektów w jeden. Adam to potomek magicznej błękitnej krwi, Liam to raczej średniak z dolnej granicy. Dla tego pierwszego i jego rodziny to najzwyczajniej w świecie afront, dla tego drugiego to szansa na pokazanie się i zaistnienie w swoim świecie. Żaden nie ma dobrego zdania o tym drugim. Dodatkowo sprawę komplikuje fakt, iż rok wcześniej nasi panowie po pijaku, po ciemku, w samochodzie zaliczyli klasyczny jednorazowy, szybki numerek. I choć Liam nie kryje się ze swoją seksualnością, to Adam, cóż... wystarczy powiedzieć, że świat ludzi magii jest baaaaardzo konserwatywny pod tym względem, a on należy do jednej z najpotężniejszych i najstarszych rodzin w Londynie 😉
Świetnie napisane enemies-to-lovers, ich związek i droga do niego jest bardzo wiarygodna. Jedyny zgrzyt to ich "obowiązkowe" rozstanie, które było zupełnie niepotrzebne i wzięte tak trochę z czterech liter - za to odejmuję pół gwiazdki, choć w ogólnym rozrachunku nie ma to zupełnie znaczenia, bo i tak zaokrąglam w górę 😁
Do tego humor, który mi odpowiada i jeszcze tak naprawdę cała masa innych rzeczy - i dla mnie to kolejna książka Zarah Detand, która zdecydowanie trafia w mój gust 😁
June 3, 2024
I've been Zarah Detand-curious for a while, so I was psyched to get this ARC. And it was good, y'all! Just enough magic to be magic-y without being magic-y; great relationship development between the two MCs; likable supporting characters; and even a touch of supernatural foreboding to go along with the more human anxieties driving the conflict.
Admittedly, the first 20% or so was a bit slow, what with the worldbuilding and the business aspect and the fact that Liam and Adam's relationship consisted entirely of too-clever-by-half banter. Once they actually started working together and trusting each other -- on the basis, not just of attraction, but of the skills and knowledge the other brings to the table -- the story finally started to breathe and the MCs started to feel more fleshed out, genuine, and worthy of our interest.
My main quibble, other than the slow start, is primarily a worldbuilding one that connects to Adam's reasoning for making the choices he makes. We're told that this magical world is very survival-of-the-fittest, very status- and power-obsessed, and very conservative -- but we're also told that open conflict and the use of magical aggression against other families are no longer acceptable practices. I can see how, in this context, Adam feels like he has no choice but to be closeted, but I don't see how the whole Gale thing fits in. Given that violence is seemingly off the table, it's never clear what the actual threat to Gale is or how Adam is supposed to be protecting him. Adam's choices are not only motivated by the Gale issue, but it is a factor, and so it's frustrating to not understand what Adam's logic is there.
Also, ngl, I am a bloodthirsty bitch who thrives on gleeful comeuppances, and, well. You can draw your own conclusions.
But overall: a well-written, mildly angsty, mostly fun read that makes me very inclined to check out Detand's backlist.
Content note: eating disorder with reference to purging in supporting character (past) that manifests in the story as excessive or compulsive exercise
I got an ARC from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Admittedly, the first 20% or so was a bit slow, what with the worldbuilding and the business aspect and the fact that Liam and Adam's relationship consisted entirely of too-clever-by-half banter. Once they actually started working together and trusting each other -- on the basis, not just of attraction, but of the skills and knowledge the other brings to the table -- the story finally started to breathe and the MCs started to feel more fleshed out, genuine, and worthy of our interest.
My main quibble, other than the slow start, is primarily a worldbuilding one that connects to Adam's reasoning for making the choices he makes. We're told that this magical world is very survival-of-the-fittest, very status- and power-obsessed, and very conservative -- but we're also told that open conflict and the use of magical aggression against other families are no longer acceptable practices. I can see how, in this context, Adam feels like he has no choice but to be closeted, but I don't see how the whole Gale thing fits in. Given that violence is seemingly off the table, it's never clear what the actual threat to Gale is or how Adam is supposed to be protecting him. Adam's choices are not only motivated by the Gale issue, but it is a factor, and so it's frustrating to not understand what Adam's logic is there.
Also, ngl, I am a bloodthirsty bitch who thrives on gleeful comeuppances, and, well. You can draw your own conclusions.
But overall: a well-written, mildly angsty, mostly fun read that makes me very inclined to check out Detand's backlist.
Content note: eating disorder with reference to purging in supporting character (past) that manifests in the story as excessive or compulsive exercise
I got an ARC from GRR in exchange for an honest review.
July 5, 2024
I admit I struggled in the beginning - the combination of a very contemporary setting (they're talking about green urban development project!) and this magic community feel rather off. Like, I couldn't see the "need" for the magic factor? Why couldn't just this be about some enemy-to-lovers trope in a contemporary MM romance without the need to inject magic into it?
However, one thing that I LOVE from Detand's works is her ability to write relationship. The changes from Adam and Liam snipping at one another, to understand one another, to develop FEELINGS... it was just so thick and real and GOOD. Like, I could really felt it, those moments where Adam and Liam moved from "enemy" to "lovers". I LOVED those chapters when our two main characters spent their weekend at the beach house.
So yes, another winner from Detand for me. Maybe she would write something in the future involving Julien Duval? It looks promising.
However, one thing that I LOVE from Detand's works is her ability to write relationship. The changes from Adam and Liam snipping at one another, to understand one another, to develop FEELINGS... it was just so thick and real and GOOD. Like, I could really felt it, those moments where Adam and Liam moved from "enemy" to "lovers". I LOVED those chapters when our two main characters spent their weekend at the beach house.
So yes, another winner from Detand for me. Maybe she would write something in the future involving Julien Duval? It looks promising.
May 16, 2024
Once again, Zarah has done an amazing job!
Liam’s family is the kind of big, loud, fun family that everyone wishes they had at one point or another in their lives. Liam is just the kind of character you would want to be your best friend or your brother. Someone you would want in your corner when the world goes south. Adam’s family is exactly the kind of stuffy upper crust family you would expect. The way that Adam comes into his own and becomes comfortable with who he is as a person gives me proud mama feelings. Character evolution is one of my favorite things to see in a book.
I love that the animosity between Adam and Liam was never the toxic, harmful kind. It honestly gets a bit old reading enemies to lovers books where they’re harmful to each other in ways that just feel over the top, gratuitous, and forced. It’s a breath of fresh air to have it clearly be a competitive/enemy relationship but not one where they are actively out to destroy or traumatize the other person.
The way that she seamlessly blends magic and modern was also a delight. It’s actually believable that magic could be completely hidden from the general public, which is a hard thing to achieve. I also really liked the idea of the magic being somewhat sentient. I feel like if magic were something that actually existed, this is how it would be. Like something you would have to forge a relationship with, not just something you use.
I think I might need a spin-off book with the French families. I really liked the idea of magic being different depending on where in the world you’re located and I think a Paris romance would be a lot of fun.
Overall, it really didn’t take much to fall in love with Adam and Liam and to root for their relationship. Nothing about the book felt rushed, and it’s a nice, cozy read with just enough action to immerse yourself in when you need something light but not just fluff and smut without a plot - and the Easter eggs that she worked in to show they’re all still in the same universe are perfection!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Liam’s family is the kind of big, loud, fun family that everyone wishes they had at one point or another in their lives. Liam is just the kind of character you would want to be your best friend or your brother. Someone you would want in your corner when the world goes south. Adam’s family is exactly the kind of stuffy upper crust family you would expect. The way that Adam comes into his own and becomes comfortable with who he is as a person gives me proud mama feelings. Character evolution is one of my favorite things to see in a book.
I love that the animosity between Adam and Liam was never the toxic, harmful kind. It honestly gets a bit old reading enemies to lovers books where they’re harmful to each other in ways that just feel over the top, gratuitous, and forced. It’s a breath of fresh air to have it clearly be a competitive/enemy relationship but not one where they are actively out to destroy or traumatize the other person.
The way that she seamlessly blends magic and modern was also a delight. It’s actually believable that magic could be completely hidden from the general public, which is a hard thing to achieve. I also really liked the idea of the magic being somewhat sentient. I feel like if magic were something that actually existed, this is how it would be. Like something you would have to forge a relationship with, not just something you use.
I think I might need a spin-off book with the French families. I really liked the idea of magic being different depending on where in the world you’re located and I think a Paris romance would be a lot of fun.
Overall, it really didn’t take much to fall in love with Adam and Liam and to root for their relationship. Nothing about the book felt rushed, and it’s a nice, cozy read with just enough action to immerse yourself in when you need something light but not just fluff and smut without a plot - and the Easter eggs that she worked in to show they’re all still in the same universe are perfection!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 13, 2024
At 20%, I'm just not feeling drawn into this one. It all boils down to lack of tension. I'm told they hate each other, I'm told they're attracted to each other, but I don't feel like either... matters. It's not a haters to lovers story so much as an oh get on with it already story. How disappointing.
May 14, 2024
First off, I love this cover, it matches the author’s other book covers, but with a fun magical glow to it.
I am a huge fan of Zarah’s other books, and this was no exception. It was a nice deviation from her usual work, into a hint of fantasy - a magical London that still exists within her other universes (shout-out to Max Fina, Prince Joshua & Leo) - but where you only know about the magic if you’re part of it.
Liam & Adam are work rivals with a drunken hookup history who are forced to collaborate on a work project. During this partnership, we get to watch their relationship as it shifts from dislike to love, in a slow-burn romance filled with Zarah’s famous snappy banter. There was also a unique mystery aspect to the story, with some exciting magical twists and turns along the way.
Seriously, I don’t know how Zarah does it with all the witty banter - I always find myself smiling and laughing while reading. There’s also something really special about the way she’s able to weave her words together, it’s kind of lyrical and just flows so well.
“It felt a little like drowning - a radiant swell of affection trying to pull me under.”
"At this point, wanting him was a constant, distant ache behind my ribs."
I loved this story overall and really enjoyed the magical aspect of it. I will always recommend Zarah’s books, because I have yet to read one that I didn’t adore, but this one in particular was really fun with the hint of fantasy, and I enjoyed it a lot.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I am a huge fan of Zarah’s other books, and this was no exception. It was a nice deviation from her usual work, into a hint of fantasy - a magical London that still exists within her other universes (shout-out to Max Fina, Prince Joshua & Leo) - but where you only know about the magic if you’re part of it.
Liam & Adam are work rivals with a drunken hookup history who are forced to collaborate on a work project. During this partnership, we get to watch their relationship as it shifts from dislike to love, in a slow-burn romance filled with Zarah’s famous snappy banter. There was also a unique mystery aspect to the story, with some exciting magical twists and turns along the way.
Seriously, I don’t know how Zarah does it with all the witty banter - I always find myself smiling and laughing while reading. There’s also something really special about the way she’s able to weave her words together, it’s kind of lyrical and just flows so well.
“It felt a little like drowning - a radiant swell of affection trying to pull me under.”
"At this point, wanting him was a constant, distant ache behind my ribs."
I loved this story overall and really enjoyed the magical aspect of it. I will always recommend Zarah’s books, because I have yet to read one that I didn’t adore, but this one in particular was really fun with the hint of fantasy, and I enjoyed it a lot.
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 21, 2024
Holy crap this is a fantastic book! Top 5 of the year for me. I loved the development of the relationship, the fresh plot, the side characters were well-developed, and the overall pacing was good. Will be checking out the rest of this author’s work.
June 4, 2024
Our Radient Embers took the world Zarah's created and made it magical. Literally! Adam & Liam's story might be my new favorite of the Zarahverse!
Adam & Liam are forced to work together on a project, which they were both hoping to secure for themselves. Different backgrounds & social standings within their magical community adds tension to the mix.
As I started the story, I didn't know how I'd feel about the fact that they had magical abilities, but not only did I end up loving it, I'm really hoping for another story or 2! (Gale? Christian? Cassandra's brother?) Fingers crossed!
I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
Adam & Liam are forced to work together on a project, which they were both hoping to secure for themselves. Different backgrounds & social standings within their magical community adds tension to the mix.
As I started the story, I didn't know how I'd feel about the fact that they had magical abilities, but not only did I end up loving it, I'm really hoping for another story or 2! (Gale? Christian? Cassandra's brother?) Fingers crossed!
I received a free ARC from the author and this is my honest review.
June 7, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
There’s a nice rivals to friends to lovers relationship in this book, ruined by a clumsy third-act breakup where the couple, for some random and unclear reason, part for half a chapter, and then get back together. It’s a moment so poorly done, so poorly structured that I took an entire point off of my review for it. I went back to re-read the chapters before the event to see what was going on, but I was left still confused and irked by the whole thing. Personally, I don’t think this book needed the breakup, as it added nothing to the characters, the relationship, or even the story.
It’s a mixed reaction from me, to be honest. The writing is fine, the magic system is put together well enough to hold my interest, and the ideas of how to incorporate magic and technology are the best part of this book. However, so many character building moments fall flat and so much of the relationship feels more like friends with benefits than two characters falling in love. Overall, this felt like an uneven book, for me.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
There’s a nice rivals to friends to lovers relationship in this book, ruined by a clumsy third-act breakup where the couple, for some random and unclear reason, part for half a chapter, and then get back together. It’s a moment so poorly done, so poorly structured that I took an entire point off of my review for it. I went back to re-read the chapters before the event to see what was going on, but I was left still confused and irked by the whole thing. Personally, I don’t think this book needed the breakup, as it added nothing to the characters, the relationship, or even the story.
It’s a mixed reaction from me, to be honest. The writing is fine, the magic system is put together well enough to hold my interest, and the ideas of how to incorporate magic and technology are the best part of this book. However, so many character building moments fall flat and so much of the relationship feels more like friends with benefits than two characters falling in love. Overall, this felt like an uneven book, for me.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
November 11, 2024
As with a lot of enemies-to-lovers tales, the writing is hottest when the verbal daggers are being thrown with abandon. The magic, however, juices the narrative in the latter part. The fact that Liam and Adam loathed each other while secretly lusting after each other, going back as far as high school, spices their background. Also, the fact that a lustful encounter precedes love adds steam to the recipe, fanning the flames.
June 1, 2024
I am thrilled that Zarah Detand, an author I adore, has written a novel in the urban fantasy genre, a genre which I adore.
This book did not disappoint.
Our Radiant Embers included two of my favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity (although I guess those usually go hand-in-hand).
In this case, two sons of magical families are assigned to work together on a major technomagic/climate-change-fighting project. One is the scion of a wealthy, established magical family, where he is treated as a source of raw power, but not privy to the actual strategies of the families. The other is the leader of his family, which recently moved to the upper middle class based on his technomagic inventions. From there, sizzling chemistry and snark lead to grudging respect and affection.
This book was filled with Zarah Detand's usual witty repartee. I love that her MCs spend on-page time interacting and getting to know each other. You actually get to see the characters fall in love.
The urban fantasy provided a useful plot backdrop, but, honestly, I'd give the fantasy world-building 2.5 stars. That said, it didn't detract from the novel for me. (I'm here for the romance). If solid world-building and unique worldscapes are important to you, you might want to skip this one. The entire human/concealed magic users setup is pretty underdeveloped and doesn't make a lot of sense (how is the magic concealed exactly when they're running around making money from using magic to build and destroy things?), and there's nothing particularly unique about a world with powerful magical families with elemental magical talents. (Also, I think there is a shout out to Ilona Andrews' Burn For Me, given the fire mage named Adam, the powerful family structure, the levels of magic users, and the little sister/cousin named Arabella. There is also a big loving, snarky family of magical underdogs. I could be making the whole shout out thing up, but since I love that whole series, I kinda hope not.) Using technomagic to fight climate change is a bit unique, and it's different having a world in which different countries have different types of magic (although that part isn't really explained in a way that makes much sense either).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This book did not disappoint.
Our Radiant Embers included two of my favorite tropes: enemies-to-lovers and forced proximity (although I guess those usually go hand-in-hand).
In this case, two sons of magical families are assigned to work together on a major technomagic/climate-change-fighting project. One is the scion of a wealthy, established magical family, where he is treated as a source of raw power, but not privy to the actual strategies of the families. The other is the leader of his family, which recently moved to the upper middle class based on his technomagic inventions. From there, sizzling chemistry and snark lead to grudging respect and affection.
This book was filled with Zarah Detand's usual witty repartee. I love that her MCs spend on-page time interacting and getting to know each other. You actually get to see the characters fall in love.
The urban fantasy provided a useful plot backdrop, but, honestly, I'd give the fantasy world-building 2.5 stars. That said, it didn't detract from the novel for me. (I'm here for the romance). If solid world-building and unique worldscapes are important to you, you might want to skip this one. The entire human/concealed magic users setup is pretty underdeveloped and doesn't make a lot of sense (how is the magic concealed exactly when they're running around making money from using magic to build and destroy things?), and there's nothing particularly unique about a world with powerful magical families with elemental magical talents. (Also, I think there is a shout out to Ilona Andrews' Burn For Me, given the fire mage named Adam, the powerful family structure, the levels of magic users, and the little sister/cousin named Arabella. There is also a big loving, snarky family of magical underdogs. I could be making the whole shout out thing up, but since I love that whole series, I kinda hope not.) Using technomagic to fight climate change is a bit unique, and it's different having a world in which different countries have different types of magic (although that part isn't really explained in a way that makes much sense either).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 27, 2024
4.5/5 This was a thoroughly enjoyable fantasy romance. I liked the way the magic was threaded through a modern world. There was plenty to question about the magical system of power, but although everything isn’t fixed by the end of it, it does feel like the dial is starting to move a little.
I liked Adam and Liam a lot. They spark to an amazing degree, and it’s a great deal of fun to see them banter (and occasionally backtrack when one of them goes a bit too far but is decent enough to realise it). There’s a lot of groundwork laid as they actually have to spend time together, learn how to work together, and actually start to build a relationship. Even with so much standing in their way, it felt possible because they ended up building such a decent foundation.
I appreciated how Liam had a clear boundary about it what he wanted in a relationship, Adam respected it, and when Liam changed his mind, he accepted the consequences that came with that decision. It was very respectful of both of them and their relationships with their families and the world. I liked the nuances here and the recognition that families and relationships are complicated.
Liam’s family was awesome, and I’m glad that Adam had Cassandra and Gale. There’s definitely plenty of examples of how not to be a family, but we’ve got some good examples too.
I enjoyed the mystery of Liam’s magic and everything we learned about how magic works: the elements, the technomancy, the magical sight, the fact that it’s tied to the land and developed differently in different places. I loved the idea of magic being used to help sustainability and other environmental efforts. I like to envision a lot more ongoing projects and some continued quiet revolution to continue to improve magical society. It certainly wasn’t happening overnight, but I liked how much more hopeful it became for Liam and Adam and their friends. It’s a place to start, at least.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
I liked Adam and Liam a lot. They spark to an amazing degree, and it’s a great deal of fun to see them banter (and occasionally backtrack when one of them goes a bit too far but is decent enough to realise it). There’s a lot of groundwork laid as they actually have to spend time together, learn how to work together, and actually start to build a relationship. Even with so much standing in their way, it felt possible because they ended up building such a decent foundation.
I appreciated how Liam had a clear boundary about it what he wanted in a relationship, Adam respected it, and when Liam changed his mind, he accepted the consequences that came with that decision. It was very respectful of both of them and their relationships with their families and the world. I liked the nuances here and the recognition that families and relationships are complicated.
Liam’s family was awesome, and I’m glad that Adam had Cassandra and Gale. There’s definitely plenty of examples of how not to be a family, but we’ve got some good examples too.
I enjoyed the mystery of Liam’s magic and everything we learned about how magic works: the elements, the technomancy, the magical sight, the fact that it’s tied to the land and developed differently in different places. I loved the idea of magic being used to help sustainability and other environmental efforts. I like to envision a lot more ongoing projects and some continued quiet revolution to continue to improve magical society. It certainly wasn’t happening overnight, but I liked how much more hopeful it became for Liam and Adam and their friends. It’s a place to start, at least.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
June 25, 2024
I’m not going to wait until the end of my review to say that I LOVED this book. The concept, the characters (both main and supporting), the setting, the writing…everything about it was what I love in a story. And with this being a new-to-me author with an established backlist? Yeah, I’ve just added ALL of them to my reading list.
Adam is from a family that is high up in the social hierarchy of this magical world, and not gonna lie—I was prepared to not like him much given his initial attitude. But he’s just not a character that I can’t like. He has the weight of his family on his shoulders, and if you couple that with the antiquated views of their society regarding same sex relationships, that weight is indeed crushing at times. His character experiences quite a bit of growth, particularly once he realizes what is most important to him.
Liam is used to being lower down in the social hierarchy of magical families, so he and Adam are set as opposites. I liked Liam’s quiet strength, and that he stood tall even when faced with those considered higher up in the magical social hierarchy. He’s not in the closet, so he is well aware he may be setting himself up for heartbreak when it comes to Adam.
My only “meh” thought about this book is that it seemed to move slowly in some places. I think this can mostly be attributed to the world building needed to set the stage and provide ongoing background. The good part of this though is that if the author decides to add more stories set in this world, the groundwork has already been laid. And yes, given the strong cast of supporting characters, there are several opportunities for more and I for one hope the author will take advantage of this!
Our Radiant Embers was a 5-star read for me—the relationship development, sensual intimate scenes (especially those infused with a touch of magic…oh…my…word), and emotional journey of the characters far outweigh the slow spots. This one is going on my Top Recommendations list for this year, and I am looking forward to diving into this author’s backlist while I sit here with fingers crossed for more in this magical world, and hopefully this one on audio as well. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Adam is from a family that is high up in the social hierarchy of this magical world, and not gonna lie—I was prepared to not like him much given his initial attitude. But he’s just not a character that I can’t like. He has the weight of his family on his shoulders, and if you couple that with the antiquated views of their society regarding same sex relationships, that weight is indeed crushing at times. His character experiences quite a bit of growth, particularly once he realizes what is most important to him.
Liam is used to being lower down in the social hierarchy of magical families, so he and Adam are set as opposites. I liked Liam’s quiet strength, and that he stood tall even when faced with those considered higher up in the magical social hierarchy. He’s not in the closet, so he is well aware he may be setting himself up for heartbreak when it comes to Adam.
My only “meh” thought about this book is that it seemed to move slowly in some places. I think this can mostly be attributed to the world building needed to set the stage and provide ongoing background. The good part of this though is that if the author decides to add more stories set in this world, the groundwork has already been laid. And yes, given the strong cast of supporting characters, there are several opportunities for more and I for one hope the author will take advantage of this!
Our Radiant Embers was a 5-star read for me—the relationship development, sensual intimate scenes (especially those infused with a touch of magic…oh…my…word), and emotional journey of the characters far outweigh the slow spots. This one is going on my Top Recommendations list for this year, and I am looking forward to diving into this author’s backlist while I sit here with fingers crossed for more in this magical world, and hopefully this one on audio as well. This story is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
June 8, 2024
This is not a type of book I would normally read (urban fantasy), and I took a chance since I've really enjoyed the author in the past. I am so glad that I did! You can always tell a difference between authors who write books that have generic characters (blonde in one book, brunette in the next, perfect six pack and rich) and ones who really create characters who feel like well-developed people. This book is a great example of how Zarah works to build a world for readers to spend time in, not just a book that you'll forget about in a week or two.
I loved getting to watch the relationship develop between Liam and Adam, and I am glad that they were allowed to make choices that didn't necessarily always feel perfect. I loved the way that Zarah handled the enemies-to-lovers trope because it felt real without feeling too mean or cruel to a point that there would be no coming back (which is often what you get with that trope).
I will definitely read more books in this series if there are more in this universe! Either way, I'm very excited to see Zarah branching out into other subgenres!
I loved getting to watch the relationship develop between Liam and Adam, and I am glad that they were allowed to make choices that didn't necessarily always feel perfect. I loved the way that Zarah handled the enemies-to-lovers trope because it felt real without feeling too mean or cruel to a point that there would be no coming back (which is often what you get with that trope).
I will definitely read more books in this series if there are more in this universe! Either way, I'm very excited to see Zarah branching out into other subgenres!
May 27, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive the ARC for this book and I throughly enjoyed it. I’ve read all of Zarah’s books and this one also didn’t disappoint.
Our Radiant Embers combines an enemy-to-lovers story with magic in present day London. I liked how Detand modernized the magic so it didn’t seem “too fantasy.” Using current newspapers, 10 Downing Street, advisors to the Prime Minister, larger landmarks were all ways to make this seem more real.
Of course, the love story was great. Liam and Adam’s relationship grew over half the book, but not in a slow burn. This was more of a realistic way for two enemies to work together and eventually realize there could be more. It wasn’t angsty, but hopeful. Even the twists at the end were well placed and written to help make this a HEA.
My favorite part of Detand’s writing is the witty sarcasm throughout. The banter between Liam and Adam, the jabs from Jack and Laurie, the comments from Cassandra all are good humor. Of course, in a British tone as well… :)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys MM romance with some plot to solve.
Our Radiant Embers combines an enemy-to-lovers story with magic in present day London. I liked how Detand modernized the magic so it didn’t seem “too fantasy.” Using current newspapers, 10 Downing Street, advisors to the Prime Minister, larger landmarks were all ways to make this seem more real.
Of course, the love story was great. Liam and Adam’s relationship grew over half the book, but not in a slow burn. This was more of a realistic way for two enemies to work together and eventually realize there could be more. It wasn’t angsty, but hopeful. Even the twists at the end were well placed and written to help make this a HEA.
My favorite part of Detand’s writing is the witty sarcasm throughout. The banter between Liam and Adam, the jabs from Jack and Laurie, the comments from Cassandra all are good humor. Of course, in a British tone as well… :)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys MM romance with some plot to solve.
June 12, 2024
Holy cow, what a FANTASTIC story!!!
It is enemies to lovers, forced proximity love story full of magic and secrets.
Sarah Detand wrote a brilliant book that sucked me right into the magical world where there is actual magic and powerful, old families in London. I loved the concept of using magic to save energy, water, heal the environment (in one way or another) and make human lives easier.
I adored both Adam and Liam, they are completely different, have absolutely different backgrounds and yet they work together perfectly ☺️
I liked the idea of an accidental hook up with Liam's high school crush, but I liked their conversations full of innuendos even more.
This is an easy read, fast paced and really well written. It is definitely one of the best stories I've read this year ❤️
*I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.*
It is enemies to lovers, forced proximity love story full of magic and secrets.
Sarah Detand wrote a brilliant book that sucked me right into the magical world where there is actual magic and powerful, old families in London. I loved the concept of using magic to save energy, water, heal the environment (in one way or another) and make human lives easier.
I adored both Adam and Liam, they are completely different, have absolutely different backgrounds and yet they work together perfectly ☺️
I liked the idea of an accidental hook up with Liam's high school crush, but I liked their conversations full of innuendos even more.
This is an easy read, fast paced and really well written. It is definitely one of the best stories I've read this year ❤️
*I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.*
May 19, 2024
This is a FANTASTIC book! I highly highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys PNR.
The magical world building is excellent and interesting, the main characters are relatable and loveable, the plot is strong, the banter is witty. There's mystery, intrigue, family drama, family secrets, power grabs - everything you could possibly want and done well.
And the romance - 10/10. There's an element of enemies to lovers, there's a dash of heartbreak and some angst, but don't worry, the HEA is well earned and well worth it.
I cannot recommend Our Radiant Embers enough!
The magical world building is excellent and interesting, the main characters are relatable and loveable, the plot is strong, the banter is witty. There's mystery, intrigue, family drama, family secrets, power grabs - everything you could possibly want and done well.
And the romance - 10/10. There's an element of enemies to lovers, there's a dash of heartbreak and some angst, but don't worry, the HEA is well earned and well worth it.
I cannot recommend Our Radiant Embers enough!
September 28, 2025
i really enjoyed the fantasy aspect in this although i could've appreciated even better closure to it idk.
also there could have been so much more angsttt. i was lowkey rooting for one of them to get like killed by the big ley line thingys but oh well. i am glad they're alive. the romance was really great, it went from 10- 40 but then slowly built up to 100.
3.7 stars
also there could have been so much more angsttt. i was lowkey rooting for one of them to get like killed by the big ley line thingys but oh well. i am glad they're alive. the romance was really great, it went from 10- 40 but then slowly built up to 100.
3.7 stars
May 20, 2024
A story that keeps you fully in the pages til the very end. The book began slowly but the dislike between the two m/c’s fueled the story as it unfolded. Excellent characters both good and evil. Fantastic storyline that truly was engrossing. The journey was one that I’d encourage you not to miss because it is just that good. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
September 28, 2024
meh
The magic seemed like an interesting twist to the usual plots that detand excels at but instead I just got lost in all the details. The parts that were just the two boys were great but everything else was confusing.
The magic seemed like an interesting twist to the usual plots that detand excels at but instead I just got lost in all the details. The parts that were just the two boys were great but everything else was confusing.
Read
September 13, 2024My first foray into magic! ✨
Adam and Liam stole my heart, shattered it into tiny pieces, and then glued it back together. I hope you'll love them half as much as I do!
Adam and Liam stole my heart, shattered it into tiny pieces, and then glued it back together. I hope you'll love them half as much as I do!
June 12, 2024
Magical realism and snarky enemies-to-lovers goodness. A story to savor when you feel like being immersed for a while.
I enjoyed this book and the connection between snarking heroes Liam and Adam. Liam’s from a middle-class regular magical family; closeted Adam’s the most powerful member of a wealthy high-society magic family. And these two have a history of not getting along; their families have been rivals in the past, and Adam and Liam have a personal history of one unforgettable hate-hookup. So when, after presentations to the city, Liam/his family is chosen by the city council to collaborate with Adam on Adam’s family's huge project, it’s shock and horror for Adam. His family can’t believe it either.
So begins a slow-burn romance, heated up by a “we can’t help it” fiery hookup before real Feelings get involved. These two set each other off in a way that ultimately brings out the best in each, and soon they’re seeing each other in a different light and catching those Feelings. Adam is practically (but not yet actually!) engaged to a high-power mage from another powerful family; Liam has been a goodtime guy who just enjoys hookups without strings. So this new connection is mega-inconvenient for both of them. In the best way!
I love the way their magic works—feels like something between them also connects magically. Adam is so powerful and has such control he can caress Liam with magic (shiver! Sexy!), and Liam’s magic is suddenly evolving and growing in power and they don’t know why, but, it gave me a “fated mates” sensation. It isn’t, that’s not an element in the book, but, it felt like it, and I was There for it. The designations of power--Spark, Blaze, Sun, Nova (might be more, that's all I remember) were fun and made sense.
The obstacles are real—Adam’s family is full of supercilious jerks, and he’s so far in the closet he’s in Narnia. Liam never, ever thought he’d agree to be someone’s secret, but they become each other’s exception to every rule. The pressure on Adam to carry his family into the next generation has him making poor choice after poor choice (esp a confusing one toward the end, but..?!), and oh, I felt for these two, they go through it. The bond they form is undeniable, even when they’re denying it, and magic will have its way.
For some reason, though things kept happening, the pace felt glacially slow to me. I kept thinking, oh, I’m only THAT far? every time I checked my reading percentage. I was enjoying it all, but at the same time, wondering how the heck long the book was, so…?! Something was off there, but, I couldn’t pinpoint how to speed it up. Maybe cut 25K or so from all over. It took forever for the dangerous/truly troublesome elements of the plot to show up, and that felt lopsided. But still enjoyable.
Liam’s delightful family and family secrets (his Nan Jean’s!) added compelling layers to the tale, as did Adam’s friendship with his not-fiancee Cassandra, another terrific character, and his wonderful younger (and not powerful) brother, Gale.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
HEA, enemies to lovers with all the snark, virgin hero (for penetrative sex; Adam calls himself a virgin despite a few handies and the Liam BJ hookup in the past), magical realism/two powerful mages working together. No cheating or emotional cheating or others, although Liam was definitely with others between their original hookup in the back story (~1 year prior) and the present storyline—the author didn’t throw that in my face, so it didn’t matter (much…I still thought about it bc Me, but, I annoy myself…!). Recommended, and I’ll read more from this author.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
I enjoyed this book and the connection between snarking heroes Liam and Adam. Liam’s from a middle-class regular magical family; closeted Adam’s the most powerful member of a wealthy high-society magic family. And these two have a history of not getting along; their families have been rivals in the past, and Adam and Liam have a personal history of one unforgettable hate-hookup. So when, after presentations to the city, Liam/his family is chosen by the city council to collaborate with Adam on Adam’s family's huge project, it’s shock and horror for Adam. His family can’t believe it either.
So begins a slow-burn romance, heated up by a “we can’t help it” fiery hookup before real Feelings get involved. These two set each other off in a way that ultimately brings out the best in each, and soon they’re seeing each other in a different light and catching those Feelings. Adam is practically (but not yet actually!) engaged to a high-power mage from another powerful family; Liam has been a goodtime guy who just enjoys hookups without strings. So this new connection is mega-inconvenient for both of them. In the best way!
I love the way their magic works—feels like something between them also connects magically. Adam is so powerful and has such control he can caress Liam with magic (shiver! Sexy!), and Liam’s magic is suddenly evolving and growing in power and they don’t know why, but, it gave me a “fated mates” sensation. It isn’t, that’s not an element in the book, but, it felt like it, and I was There for it. The designations of power--Spark, Blaze, Sun, Nova (might be more, that's all I remember) were fun and made sense.
The obstacles are real—Adam’s family is full of supercilious jerks, and he’s so far in the closet he’s in Narnia. Liam never, ever thought he’d agree to be someone’s secret, but they become each other’s exception to every rule. The pressure on Adam to carry his family into the next generation has him making poor choice after poor choice (esp a confusing one toward the end, but..?!), and oh, I felt for these two, they go through it. The bond they form is undeniable, even when they’re denying it, and magic will have its way.
For some reason, though things kept happening, the pace felt glacially slow to me. I kept thinking, oh, I’m only THAT far? every time I checked my reading percentage. I was enjoying it all, but at the same time, wondering how the heck long the book was, so…?! Something was off there, but, I couldn’t pinpoint how to speed it up. Maybe cut 25K or so from all over. It took forever for the dangerous/truly troublesome elements of the plot to show up, and that felt lopsided. But still enjoyable.
Liam’s delightful family and family secrets (his Nan Jean’s!) added compelling layers to the tale, as did Adam’s friendship with his not-fiancee Cassandra, another terrific character, and his wonderful younger (and not powerful) brother, Gale.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
HEA, enemies to lovers with all the snark, virgin hero (for penetrative sex; Adam calls himself a virgin despite a few handies and the Liam BJ hookup in the past), magical realism/two powerful mages working together. No cheating or emotional cheating or others, although Liam was definitely with others between their original hookup in the back story (~1 year prior) and the present storyline—the author didn’t throw that in my face, so it didn’t matter (much…I still thought about it bc Me, but, I annoy myself…!). Recommended, and I’ll read more from this author.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
June 7, 2024
“You look at me like I’m the brightest thing in the room.
But I could be projecting.”
❥ Dual POV ❥ MM Romance
❥ Enemies to Lovers ❥ Slow Burn
❥ Opposites Attract ❥ Snark and Banter
❥ Family Rivals ❥ Magical Realism ❥ HEA
I loved absolutely everything about this book.
Firstly, I haven’t read a lot of books with magical realism, so I don’t have much to compare with, but from this book I can say that I really enjoyed it. I loved being able to picture the modern London as I was reading, and I loved the whole magic society and how it differs from place to place with the magic systems and such. I found it really interesting and intriguing. I liked the small details such as the school system as to how the magic society could maintain being a secret while living among non-magical people in London.
The whole family rivalries and feuds gave me such a Bridgerton vibe, which I think goes well with how these families of magic stick to old traditions and such, well.. Bridgerton with a lot more hostility and a bit of magic.
The plot was awesome, and I was really on the edge of my seat for the last part of the book. It was really intense.
And then there’s the love story in-between all of it, and it had me swooning and pining so hard. I was ready to hate Adam as the book started, but it didn’t take long for both Liam and Adam to capture my heart completely. Their banter was on point and so enjoyable, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud a few times as I was reading. Their chemistry was indeed magical.
(My heart broke for 8 days in fictional time)
I also really loved Liam’s family and their whole dynamic – even I felt at home at their house. Obviously I wasn’t a huge fan of Adam’s family, but I loved his relationship with his brother, and how strong their bond was, and how protective Adam was. I also enjoyed Adam’s relationship with Cassandra, his best friend/fiancé – she was hilarious as well.
A few swoony quotes:
With his eyes crinkled up at the corners, he was the prettiest guy I’d ever seen.
At this point, wanting him was a constant, distant ache behind my ribs.
Mine. Even if it’s just for now.
Adam’s laugh glowed like the sunlight that tangled in the bedsheets.
I was so lucky to receive this ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Read the full review on my blog here.
June 11, 2024
I’ve had a hard time starting this review, and here is why …
I’m very much torn between really liking the romance and feeling a tad underwhelmed by the plot.
What I loved …
.) Both, Adam and Liam are highly sympathetic guys I totally rooted for:
- Liam, out, openly gay and sexually experienced,
- Adam, closeted, conflicted and yearning to be himself.
I got easily invested in their respective dilemmas, Adam’s wish to come out and stand up to his overbearing family and Liam’s ambition to prove himself on a bigger stage and struggle with his changing magic.
What kept me really going though was the question how they could possibly ever be together, when it seems impossible for most of the book. Great tension and a little bit of angst add a bit of spice here.
I loved the dynamic between the two men, and how their relationship turns from enemies and total dislike to friendly, friends and then more, gradually. They grow together quite naturally, the better they get to know each other. Their verbal sparring and acerbic banter at the beginning really sends sparks flying and their mutual physical attraction is tangible. As is their happiness once they get together, and their desperation when things go wrong.
However, I had quite a few niggles ...
a. Liam’s magic: Much is made of the mystery of it changing, and Liam's ancestry, but then the issue is resolved in two seconds by Adam Very convenient. A bit disappointing.
b. The dreaded, so common 75% (or so) ‘problem’ causing relationship troubles. Just to be sorted in the shortest time. It definitely felt like a ploy ‘just for the sake’ of creating drama.
c. The action part of the plot, the bit where Liam and Adam unravel secret power games and fight to save London, is part of the blurb, but comes into play very late in the book. Too late, and too short, in my opinion.
d. It felt rather odd to me, that this universe is supposedly the same as the one where Zarah Detand’s other contemporary books happen. A magic world hidden away from the public, yet so many people know about it, it seems implausible that not even one person would have let this secret slip.
e. I would have liked more detailed information about this magical world. It didn’t feel enough.
f. I found the sex scenes only ok rather than sizzling. Shame!
Soooooo….
Where does that leave me with my rating.
Romance: 4,5 stars
Plot: 3 stars.
Settling for a generous overall 4 stars' rating.
I enjoyed this, but it's not my favourite by this author.
I’m very much torn between really liking the romance and feeling a tad underwhelmed by the plot.
What I loved …
.) Both, Adam and Liam are highly sympathetic guys I totally rooted for:
- Liam, out, openly gay and sexually experienced,
- Adam, closeted, conflicted and yearning to be himself.
I got easily invested in their respective dilemmas, Adam’s wish to come out and stand up to his overbearing family and Liam’s ambition to prove himself on a bigger stage and struggle with his changing magic.
What kept me really going though was the question how they could possibly ever be together, when it seems impossible for most of the book. Great tension and a little bit of angst add a bit of spice here.
I loved the dynamic between the two men, and how their relationship turns from enemies and total dislike to friendly, friends and then more, gradually. They grow together quite naturally, the better they get to know each other. Their verbal sparring and acerbic banter at the beginning really sends sparks flying and their mutual physical attraction is tangible. As is their happiness once they get together, and their desperation when things go wrong.
However, I had quite a few niggles ...
a. Liam’s magic: Much is made of the mystery of it changing, and Liam's ancestry, but then the issue is resolved in two seconds by Adam Very convenient. A bit disappointing.
b. The dreaded, so common 75% (or so) ‘problem’ causing relationship troubles. Just to be sorted in the shortest time. It definitely felt like a ploy ‘just for the sake’ of creating drama.
c. The action part of the plot, the bit where Liam and Adam unravel secret power games and fight to save London, is part of the blurb, but comes into play very late in the book. Too late, and too short, in my opinion.
d. It felt rather odd to me, that this universe is supposedly the same as the one where Zarah Detand’s other contemporary books happen. A magic world hidden away from the public, yet so many people know about it, it seems implausible that not even one person would have let this secret slip.
e. I would have liked more detailed information about this magical world. It didn’t feel enough.
f. I found the sex scenes only ok rather than sizzling. Shame!
Soooooo….
Where does that leave me with my rating.
Romance: 4,5 stars
Plot: 3 stars.
Settling for a generous overall 4 stars' rating.
I enjoyed this, but it's not my favourite by this author.
June 12, 2024
I was really torn with this tale on the rating, going back and forth between rating it a 4 or 5. In the end I rated it a 4 due to some minor quibbles but it was definitely a close call.
Where this book shines is the relationship between Adam and Liam. It’s the old enemies to lovers trope done right, with a believable progression in the story as they each learn to look beyond surface appearances. They’re a wonderful couple, and oh, the pining, as they find themselves falling for the other even as Adam is reluctant to step out of his closet due to his family duties.
The secondary characters also are quite good. Adam’s best friend, Cassandra, is wonderfully written, as are the various family members from the Harrington side, with Gale, Adam’s brother, and father and aunt. Liam’s family is also depicted quite well, particularly their support of one another and how that naturally extends to Adam as he and Liam grow closer.
Another strong point in the novel is the magic system that Detand has come up with. It’s a fascinating alternative version of London infused with a stealthy magic courtesy of magical family dynasties. On top of this, Detand ties in some intriguing ideas on how magic would work in different countries and regions, which comes to figure greatly in the plot. It’s hard to believe that this is Detand’s first paranormal tale, as it’s exceedingly well-grounded and thought out.
Now for the quibbles, and they are minor for the most part. As much as I liked the magic system that Detand imagined, its introduction did slow down the book somewhat at the beginning. I think I understand why she took the approach she did, as it also served as a way to force the characters to work together, but at times it did seem as if there was a bit of an info dump going on. One minor aspect of the magical London Detand posits is that the magical world is also “secret” from the mundane human world. That is, with the exception of government officials in the know, certain construction workers and needed contractors. Really? How could this be kept a secret I kept asking but then would let myself just be swept back up in the ride. Finally, I found the conclusion to be quite good overall, with some good plotting and buildup, but then the actual final test for Liam and Adam turns out to be a bit abruptly concluded.
Still, despite my minor quibbles, this is one of my favorite books of the year, so far. And there are definitely some hints of where the author might go in a sequel. With the hard lifting of building a magical world out of the way, I’d love to see where else the author would go.
Where this book shines is the relationship between Adam and Liam. It’s the old enemies to lovers trope done right, with a believable progression in the story as they each learn to look beyond surface appearances. They’re a wonderful couple, and oh, the pining, as they find themselves falling for the other even as Adam is reluctant to step out of his closet due to his family duties.
The secondary characters also are quite good. Adam’s best friend, Cassandra, is wonderfully written, as are the various family members from the Harrington side, with Gale, Adam’s brother, and father and aunt. Liam’s family is also depicted quite well, particularly their support of one another and how that naturally extends to Adam as he and Liam grow closer.
Another strong point in the novel is the magic system that Detand has come up with. It’s a fascinating alternative version of London infused with a stealthy magic courtesy of magical family dynasties. On top of this, Detand ties in some intriguing ideas on how magic would work in different countries and regions, which comes to figure greatly in the plot. It’s hard to believe that this is Detand’s first paranormal tale, as it’s exceedingly well-grounded and thought out.
Now for the quibbles, and they are minor for the most part. As much as I liked the magic system that Detand imagined, its introduction did slow down the book somewhat at the beginning. I think I understand why she took the approach she did, as it also served as a way to force the characters to work together, but at times it did seem as if there was a bit of an info dump going on. One minor aspect of the magical London Detand posits is that the magical world is also “secret” from the mundane human world. That is, with the exception of government officials in the know, certain construction workers and needed contractors. Really? How could this be kept a secret I kept asking but then would let myself just be swept back up in the ride. Finally, I found the conclusion to be quite good overall, with some good plotting and buildup, but then the actual final test for Liam and Adam turns out to be a bit abruptly concluded.
Still, despite my minor quibbles, this is one of my favorite books of the year, so far. And there are definitely some hints of where the author might go in a sequel. With the hard lifting of building a magical world out of the way, I’d love to see where else the author would go.
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