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The Hurricane Wars #2
A Monsoon Rising
Two hearts circle each other in the eye of the storm in this highly-anticipated follow-up to The Hurricane Wars—prepare for more enemies-to-lovers romance, magical adventures, and political schemes in this Southeast Asian-inspired world.
After a lifetime of war, Alaric and Talasyn were thrust into an alliance between their homelands that was supposed to end the fighting; however, being married to their sworn foe feels far from peaceful. Now Talasyn must play the part of Alaric’s willing empress while her allies secretly plot to overthrow his reign. But the longer the couple are forced together, the harder it becomes to deny the feelings crackling like lightning between them. When the time comes to act, can she trust him, or must she ignore her heart for the sake of so many others?
As the master of the Shadowforged Legion, Alaric has trained for battle all his life, but marrying a Lightweaver might be his most dangerous challenge yet. With tensions between nations churning, he needs to focus on the greater threat—the Moonless Dark, a cataclysmic magical event that could devour everything. Only he and Talasyn can stop it, with a powerful merging of light and shadow that they alone can create together. But saving their world from this disaster is a mere preface to his father’s more sinister schemes, and his wife is a burning flame in the darkness, tempting both his loyalties and his desires.
The Hurricane Wars aren’t over. It’s time to choose what—and who—to fight for. The world holds its breath amidst a whirlwind of new magic and old secrets that could change everything.
After a lifetime of war, Alaric and Talasyn were thrust into an alliance between their homelands that was supposed to end the fighting; however, being married to their sworn foe feels far from peaceful. Now Talasyn must play the part of Alaric’s willing empress while her allies secretly plot to overthrow his reign. But the longer the couple are forced together, the harder it becomes to deny the feelings crackling like lightning between them. When the time comes to act, can she trust him, or must she ignore her heart for the sake of so many others?
As the master of the Shadowforged Legion, Alaric has trained for battle all his life, but marrying a Lightweaver might be his most dangerous challenge yet. With tensions between nations churning, he needs to focus on the greater threat—the Moonless Dark, a cataclysmic magical event that could devour everything. Only he and Talasyn can stop it, with a powerful merging of light and shadow that they alone can create together. But saving their world from this disaster is a mere preface to his father’s more sinister schemes, and his wife is a burning flame in the darkness, tempting both his loyalties and his desires.
The Hurricane Wars aren’t over. It’s time to choose what—and who—to fight for. The world holds its breath amidst a whirlwind of new magic and old secrets that could change everything.
11 pages, Audio CD
First published December 10, 2024
1244 people are currently reading
53715 people want to read
About the author
Thea Guanzon
9 books3,218 followersTraveler, fangirl, dungeon master, cat lady, and iced coffeeholic residing in Metro Manila. Somehow also a No. 1 International, New York Times, USA Today, and Indie List bestselling author!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,574 reviews
December 15, 2024
4.14!
"Whatever better world you think you’ll build, it will always be built on blood."
I had so much fun with this book and honestly I do think if I wasn't reading high fantasies with minimal romance consecutively I would have liked it less because one thing that I despise in romantasies is when there's barely any fantasy but I do find it enjoyable if the romance hits and that's what happened here, The romance in this book was so damn good! I honestly think that reading high fantasies made me just crave for romance that when I picked it up, I was fully immersed with it because to be honest the fantasy/plot was only like 10% and it was heavily based on their romantic relationship. I also think that this was very important for the story because I didn't enjoy the first book that much, my main problem was how it felt disorganized and how the romance lacked chemistry. I do think if it wasn't for the reading situation that I was in it would have been 3 stars objectively but this made me realize how much I missed reading romance.
The sequel while didn't really work on the organization between I didn't really mind since it was mostly focused on the romantic aspect and oh my god it was so well done that it actually felt so fulfilling?? I didn't feel the need for there to be more plot, I feel the way it was written improved so much? because I liked it a lot! It felt like such an improvement from book 1 that I just loved reading and honestly I wasn't free this week but whenever I picked it up I flew through it. Also this was more focused on the characters development as well and the plot was sacrificed for it and since it is a series, I dont mind it.
Talasyn, I was really annoyed with her in the first book but she really improved, she didnt do a lot of annoying things, they were there but with a decreased amount that really shaped her character towards improvement and I honestly enjoyed reading about her character more and I would like to learn more about the rebellion that she joined and the things revolving around it more, we got robbed off that in this book :( but her emotions regarding Alaric and how she felt and the gradual change in it was so fun to read. Alaric, we needed so much from him in the first book where the character failed to deliver but in this one he ate! I loved his development, how we discovered glimpses of his past and how his emotions changed regarding Talasyn, I also just loved the constant back and forth between them, the bickering, everything was just so fun when it came to him. He was broody yes but he match her broodiness lol and it just made such a good dynamic.
The romance was easily the best part of this book also the saving grace of this book, in any other circumstance the book is usually not more than 3 stars if it's barely has a visible plot point but this one's romance and the chemistry was off the charts, it was amazing, It was hot and it was explosive so I obviously had more fun, I liked the constant denial of feelings, the mutual pining, the forced proximity, the marriage of convenience and the one bed trope. It made everything bump up a notch and took things to another level, I feel like the banter between the characters and the way they would feel around each other and the slowww burnn was agonizing. The pay off for the slow burn was so well done. The spice was well written as well and it ventures off into the adult category rather than YA which what I think was the first book. I also liked the worldbuilding, it improved while not that significantly the subtle touches were nice to read, I also liked the tropical setting of this book. The fight scenes were done well as well!
Overall, it definitely isn't for everyone but I really enjoyed this one, much more than the first one!
___
I can't wait to start this! The cover is so pretty and I wanna see where Alaric and Talasyns journey takes us 🤭 also have to read a recap because I don't remember anything 😭
*Thank you Netgalley and Harper Voyager for giving me an E-Arc of this book!!*
"Whatever better world you think you’ll build, it will always be built on blood."
I had so much fun with this book and honestly I do think if I wasn't reading high fantasies with minimal romance consecutively I would have liked it less because one thing that I despise in romantasies is when there's barely any fantasy but I do find it enjoyable if the romance hits and that's what happened here, The romance in this book was so damn good! I honestly think that reading high fantasies made me just crave for romance that when I picked it up, I was fully immersed with it because to be honest the fantasy/plot was only like 10% and it was heavily based on their romantic relationship. I also think that this was very important for the story because I didn't enjoy the first book that much, my main problem was how it felt disorganized and how the romance lacked chemistry. I do think if it wasn't for the reading situation that I was in it would have been 3 stars objectively but this made me realize how much I missed reading romance.
The sequel while didn't really work on the organization between I didn't really mind since it was mostly focused on the romantic aspect and oh my god it was so well done that it actually felt so fulfilling?? I didn't feel the need for there to be more plot, I feel the way it was written improved so much? because I liked it a lot! It felt like such an improvement from book 1 that I just loved reading and honestly I wasn't free this week but whenever I picked it up I flew through it. Also this was more focused on the characters development as well and the plot was sacrificed for it and since it is a series, I dont mind it.
Talasyn, I was really annoyed with her in the first book but she really improved, she didnt do a lot of annoying things, they were there but with a decreased amount that really shaped her character towards improvement and I honestly enjoyed reading about her character more and I would like to learn more about the rebellion that she joined and the things revolving around it more, we got robbed off that in this book :( but her emotions regarding Alaric and how she felt and the gradual change in it was so fun to read. Alaric, we needed so much from him in the first book where the character failed to deliver but in this one he ate! I loved his development, how we discovered glimpses of his past and how his emotions changed regarding Talasyn, I also just loved the constant back and forth between them, the bickering, everything was just so fun when it came to him. He was broody yes but he match her broodiness lol and it just made such a good dynamic.
The romance was easily the best part of this book also the saving grace of this book, in any other circumstance the book is usually not more than 3 stars if it's barely has a visible plot point but this one's romance and the chemistry was off the charts, it was amazing, It was hot and it was explosive so I obviously had more fun, I liked the constant denial of feelings, the mutual pining, the forced proximity, the marriage of convenience and the one bed trope. It made everything bump up a notch and took things to another level, I feel like the banter between the characters and the way they would feel around each other and the slowww burnn was agonizing. The pay off for the slow burn was so well done. The spice was well written as well and it ventures off into the adult category rather than YA which what I think was the first book. I also liked the worldbuilding, it improved while not that significantly the subtle touches were nice to read, I also liked the tropical setting of this book. The fight scenes were done well as well!
Overall, it definitely isn't for everyone but I really enjoyed this one, much more than the first one!
___
I can't wait to start this! The cover is so pretty and I wanna see where Alaric and Talasyns journey takes us 🤭 also have to read a recap because I don't remember anything 😭
*Thank you Netgalley and Harper Voyager for giving me an E-Arc of this book!!*
September 1, 2025
FINISHED: *wails uncontrollably* HOW COULD THIS BOOK END THE WAY IT DID!?!?! WHY!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! I have so many
thoughts on this book....
HAPPY PUB DAY!!!
Read My Honest Book Review on My Blog:
A Monsoon Rising
8/22/2024: FINALLY!!! Got time to read this. From what I hear so far, I am not ready for this.
6/10/2024: feeling grateful! Approved for an ARC
5/23/2024-FINALLY A COVER! This is gorgeous
AHHHH I can't wait to see this cover!! 😱😱😱😱😱😱
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ NEWSLETTER ⟫
HAPPY PUB DAY!!!
Read My Honest Book Review on My Blog:
A Monsoon Rising
8/22/2024: FINALLY!!! Got time to read this. From what I hear so far, I am not ready for this.
6/10/2024: feeling grateful! Approved for an ARC
5/23/2024-FINALLY A COVER! This is gorgeous
AHHHH I can't wait to see this cover!! 😱😱😱😱😱😱
Connect With Me:
BLOG ⟫ INSTAGRAM ⟫ NEWSLETTER ⟫
October 14, 2025
this has to be the most boring books I’ve read ever!! nothing stood out. The characters were so flat, I couldn’t even bring myself to care about them. I don’t know what it was, but they just felt lifeless. The romance was Even worse. It was so lackluster, I kept waiting for something to happen, but it never did. And don’t even get me started on the FMC, she was absolutely insufferable. I couldn’t stand her. The writing wasn’t any better, and the plot was a total drag. I just couldn’t vibe with any part of this book. It was one of those reads where I found myself checking the page count way too often, hoping it would end soon. terrible, just like first one.
— ALC provided by the publisher Harperaudio adult.
— ALC provided by the publisher Harperaudio adult.
November 26, 2024
Thea better be writing that third book right now 😭😭
That CLIFFY was unreal 😭
That CLIFFY was unreal 😭
October 22, 2024
They may have poor communication skills but BY GOD do they have chemistry.
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
This book was constant blue balls. It was will-they-won't-they hell. One second they are going at it, no holds barred, and then stop, we just can't do this. It was a mistake.... what about my family/friends/nation? Well, what about me?? What about what I want??
Alaric and Tala had so many cute moments. And by god, were they hot as hell 🔥🔥🔥 This book had chemistry to spare. Not once did I doubt that these characters wanted to ravage each other at all times.
Honestly, where this book lost me was in the plot. It felt dragging at points, like, let's just get past this page filler and unnecessary miscommunication and let Alaric and Tala cuddle again. There was plotting with none of the payoff. They might talk about doing something, but they don't actually do anything.
I don't really know what happened in this book and I just finished it 20 minutes ago. There was a lot of sex and internal panic with a couple training sessions shoehorned in there for good measure... and that was about it. There was the overarching Voidfell threat and then... what else really happened in this book?
Overall, in some ways I was disappointed, in some ways not. I will say I didn't love the The Hurricane Wars because of it's intricate plot, but because of the connection between Alaric and Talasyn. And A Monsoon Rising had that in spades even if they frustrated me at times. Like, come on, Alaric just needs to be loved! Just love each other, I'm begging you! You can figure out all the world-ending war and violence later.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Pre-reading:
Alright alright guys I’ve been waiting for this all year!!
NETGALLEY APPROVED ME!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
Rating: 3.5 ⭐️
This book was constant blue balls. It was will-they-won't-they hell. One second they are going at it, no holds barred, and then stop, we just can't do this. It was a mistake.... what about my family/friends/nation? Well, what about me?? What about what I want??
Alaric and Tala had so many cute moments. And by god, were they hot as hell 🔥🔥🔥 This book had chemistry to spare. Not once did I doubt that these characters wanted to ravage each other at all times.
Honestly, where this book lost me was in the plot. It felt dragging at points, like, let's just get past this page filler and unnecessary miscommunication and let Alaric and Tala cuddle again. There was plotting with none of the payoff. They might talk about doing something, but they don't actually do anything.
I don't really know what happened in this book and I just finished it 20 minutes ago. There was a lot of sex and internal panic with a couple training sessions shoehorned in there for good measure... and that was about it. There was the overarching Voidfell threat and then... what else really happened in this book?
Overall, in some ways I was disappointed, in some ways not. I will say I didn't love the The Hurricane Wars because of it's intricate plot, but because of the connection between Alaric and Talasyn. And A Monsoon Rising had that in spades even if they frustrated me at times. Like, come on, Alaric just needs to be loved! Just love each other, I'm begging you! You can figure out all the world-ending war and violence later.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Voyager for providing me early access to A Monsoon Rising in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──
Pre-reading:
Alright alright guys I’ve been waiting for this all year!!
NETGALLEY APPROVED ME!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!!!!
August 7, 2024
"Whatever better world you think you’ll build, it will always be built on blood."
“One word from you and I let my guard down. I couldn’t kill you, either, all those times before . . . What am I, if I’m not a weapon? What have you done to me?”
I was hoping the sequel would blow me away, but I really need to remind myself that this is a romantasy series first and foremost.
So, if you’re looking for romance, then this is it.
Since I’m an idiot who wanted more politics in her romantasy, this ain’t it.
This installment was a lot more romance-focused than the first book. There’s still a hint of enemies in this enemies-to-lovers romantasy, but it’s more lovers than enemies at this point. Our two favorite idiots are in love, but there’s tons of denial and a helluva lot of colonizing politics cockblocking them from actually fully giving themselves into each other.
I’m not usually one for love stories, but I definitely want to see how this will all pan out. Will there be an ultimate sacrifice on someone’s part??? Tell me, Thea Guanzon!!! I’m begging you!!!
Other than the love story going hardcore (the sex scenes weren’t too bad but there were too many fade to black scenes for my liking. And somehow Alaric, who's a virgin, knows how to finger her AND make her cum?? BFFR lmfao), the actual bigger plot points were just okay.
No spoilers but the action scenes were on point! I loved the fight scenes and any scene where Talasyn and Alaric combine their light and shadow magic. (Okay, I’m a huge sucker for shadow daddies. Whatever. Judge me.) The author is really descriptive when it comes to the magic and the worldbuilding. I could feel myself being there, either on the Continent or Nenavar.
But sad to say though, since the focus was heavy on the romance, it felt like there was less politicking this time around. I wanted more backstabby political schemes and behind the scenes plotting. In the next novel, maybe?
And while the whole sevenfold eclipse, and the major preparations for it (including Talasyn and Alaric combining their powers) was super cool, the conclusion to that huge plotline felt like a letdown. Like the author wasn’t sure what to do with that huge piece of info, so she just said peace out and left that plot point for the next book. (I’m trying really hard not to mention any spoilers here lol)
It was great to get back into this world, but I wanted more backstabbing and less lovey dovey true love pining. With the enemies part dialed down, it felt like I was reading a fanfic of a fanfic.
But then again, that’s my bad for going into a romantasy series wanting more out of it.
Here are some of my favorite corny ass lines that are supposed to be romantic lol:
"He yearned to talk to her, but what could he say to his wife of political convenience, a wife he had already inconveniently orgasmed with?"
"The woman he had reluctantly married was in possession of the loveliest breasts on Lir."
"Let the Nenavarene see their Lachis’ka ride the Night Emperor’s face."
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for this arc.
———
Your approved request to view A Monsoon Rising from Avon and Harper Voyager
☀️🌑
December 13, 2024
Huge thanks to Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the ARC of this gem! 💙 A Monsoon Rising picks up right where The Hurricane Wars left off, and OH MY GOSH, what a wild ride! We dive straight into the whirlwind of Alaric and Talasyn’s political marriage, but let me tell you—the romance steals the show! 💖🔥
✨ Tropes & Themes ✨
✧ Enemies to Lovers 💘
✧ Forced Proximity 💗
✧ Marriage of Convenience 💍
✧ Slow Burn 🔥
✧ Mutual Pining 💓
✧ One Bed Trope 💖
✧ Political Intrigue ⚖️
✧ Dragons 🐉
✧ Slow-Build Sexual Tension 💕
✧ Hot, Sizzling Chemistry 💋
Okay, first off—this book was WAY better than the first one! 🙌 The chemistry between Alaric and Talasyn? ELECTRIC. The slow-burn romance? Chef's kiss! 😘 If you liked the first book but felt the romance was a little lacking, this one? It hits all the right notes. But that cliffhanger at the end? If there's no third book, I swear I’m throwing hands. 🤬 Like, seriously—don’t leave me hanging like that! 😩
Now, while the romance was everything, I can’t pretend the plot didn’t still take a backseat. The focus was definitely more on the relationship dynamics (which, I’m not complaining about 😍), but I was kinda hoping for a bit more plot development. That said, Talasyn’s character growth was SO worth it. 👏 She was a whole new person in this book, and I loved it! And Alaric? From brooding mystery man to full-on swoon-worthy hero. Sigh. The banter between them was next level, too! 😩
The world-building definitely stepped up its game—more political drama, alliances, and twists. The layers of complexity were super interesting, but honestly? The romance and chemistry were the main event. 💖 If you love romantasy, this book has EVERYTHING. It's like watching a blockbuster movie in your mind, and I’m living for it.
Bottom line: This book was way better than the first one. Sure, I wanted a little more plot, but the romance was TOTALLY worth the ride. Now... about that ending... What. Was. That?! 😩 Can't wait for book three! 💥📚
✨ Tropes & Themes ✨
✧ Enemies to Lovers 💘
✧ Forced Proximity 💗
✧ Marriage of Convenience 💍
✧ Slow Burn 🔥
✧ Mutual Pining 💓
✧ One Bed Trope 💖
✧ Political Intrigue ⚖️
✧ Dragons 🐉
✧ Slow-Build Sexual Tension 💕
✧ Hot, Sizzling Chemistry 💋
Okay, first off—this book was WAY better than the first one! 🙌 The chemistry between Alaric and Talasyn? ELECTRIC. The slow-burn romance? Chef's kiss! 😘 If you liked the first book but felt the romance was a little lacking, this one? It hits all the right notes. But that cliffhanger at the end? If there's no third book, I swear I’m throwing hands. 🤬 Like, seriously—don’t leave me hanging like that! 😩
Now, while the romance was everything, I can’t pretend the plot didn’t still take a backseat. The focus was definitely more on the relationship dynamics (which, I’m not complaining about 😍), but I was kinda hoping for a bit more plot development. That said, Talasyn’s character growth was SO worth it. 👏 She was a whole new person in this book, and I loved it! And Alaric? From brooding mystery man to full-on swoon-worthy hero. Sigh. The banter between them was next level, too! 😩
The world-building definitely stepped up its game—more political drama, alliances, and twists. The layers of complexity were super interesting, but honestly? The romance and chemistry were the main event. 💖 If you love romantasy, this book has EVERYTHING. It's like watching a blockbuster movie in your mind, and I’m living for it.
Bottom line: This book was way better than the first one. Sure, I wanted a little more plot, but the romance was TOTALLY worth the ride. Now... about that ending... What. Was. That?! 😩 Can't wait for book three! 💥📚
December 9, 2024
If there's one thing I love, it's when a sequel takes a series to the next level. After feeling somewhat lukewarm about the first book, it was okay but felt a bit slow, But this is a rare instance where the sequel is a major step up and improvement from the first book.
The sequel continues right where the first book ended. I like that the plot is definitely starting to pick up, the side characters got more page time and development which was great.
And let’s talk about Talasyn and Alaric, the growth in their relationship was one of my favourite aspects of the book. Their banter? Perfection. The tension? Off the charts. And the slow burn with added spice? Absolutely *chef’s kiss*. Alaric’s devotion to Talasyn, his wife had me swooning. There’s just something about a MMC who is unapologetically head over heels for his wife that gets me every time.
With that ending, I’m officially counting down the days until the third book.
Thank you so much @HarperVoyager for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
The sequel continues right where the first book ended. I like that the plot is definitely starting to pick up, the side characters got more page time and development which was great.
And let’s talk about Talasyn and Alaric, the growth in their relationship was one of my favourite aspects of the book. Their banter? Perfection. The tension? Off the charts. And the slow burn with added spice? Absolutely *chef’s kiss*. Alaric’s devotion to Talasyn, his wife had me swooning. There’s just something about a MMC who is unapologetically head over heels for his wife that gets me every time.
With that ending, I’m officially counting down the days until the third book.
Thank you so much @HarperVoyager for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 7, 2024
As a romantasy girlie first and foremost, I, for one, love this book. Thea Guanzon is so talented at writing a romance full of yearning and bickering (my favourite), and utilises all of the microtropes that easily has a reader swooning. Talasyn and Alaric had me wanting to rip my hair out and shout at the page JUST KISS ALREADY - which honestly reflected their own thoughts 9 times out of 10, so seems about right.
This is an intense second instalment that had me frantically turning the pages and now left BEREFT until book three’s release…which I seem to recall happened with book one too. Maybe I’m destined to just live in alarm while reading Thea’s books. I can’t even be mad about it.
This is an intense second instalment that had me frantically turning the pages and now left BEREFT until book three’s release…which I seem to recall happened with book one too. Maybe I’m destined to just live in alarm while reading Thea’s books. I can’t even be mad about it.
December 22, 2024
I was very looking forward to a sequel in this series, and this book did not disappoint! In fact, this book features even greater writing, a more vivid universe, compelling people, and deep connections than the first one.
This book mostly focuses on Talasyn and Alaric's relationship and how they come to see each other for who they really are. As we learn more and more about each of them and how their pasts and present influence their behavior, it becomes increasingly tragic and amusing at the same time. Additionally, the sexual tension between them is expertly handled, and it is quite enjoyable to read when they finally give in. I must admit that Alaric's plot and character development in this book are the greatest in the whole.
The cliffhanger conclusion is going to drive me crazy because there are still so many unresolved questions and story points. I am in desperate need of the next book in this series!
Everything I could have wished and anticipated from "A Monsoon Rising" was well exceeded. This book was incredible, and I read it all at once. You'll be thrilled with this book if you enjoyed the first one. And if you haven't read this series yet, I heartily suggest it to anybody who like fantasy novels with captivating romance, thrilling action, and amazing fantasy realms.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book mostly focuses on Talasyn and Alaric's relationship and how they come to see each other for who they really are. As we learn more and more about each of them and how their pasts and present influence their behavior, it becomes increasingly tragic and amusing at the same time. Additionally, the sexual tension between them is expertly handled, and it is quite enjoyable to read when they finally give in. I must admit that Alaric's plot and character development in this book are the greatest in the whole.
The cliffhanger conclusion is going to drive me crazy because there are still so many unresolved questions and story points. I am in desperate need of the next book in this series!
Everything I could have wished and anticipated from "A Monsoon Rising" was well exceeded. This book was incredible, and I read it all at once. You'll be thrilled with this book if you enjoyed the first one. And if you haven't read this series yet, I heartily suggest it to anybody who like fantasy novels with captivating romance, thrilling action, and amazing fantasy realms.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 12, 2024
oh wow
"Will you stand with me against my enemies and help me build my empire?"
"I will," Talasyn said over a racing heartbeat, through the chill of the knowledge that she was lying. He placed the crown on her head."
oh wow oh wow oh wow oh wow-
that was so intense, I couldn't stop reading and I was feeling so many things at once my face literally overheated and people kept asking me whether I'm okey.
spoiler: I'm not.
ik this book isn't even realised yet, but I need the 3rd book on my table rn.
every single scene with Alaric and Talasyn made me feral, I love them and I basically highlighted their every interaction. it was ✨️perfection✨️
this book is definitely more character than plot driven and is a little slower in action than the first one, so I see why some people rated it lower, but for me it was even better, we got to explore Alaric and Talasyn very complicated relationship and learn more about their feelings and fears. And it was so well written that I wasn't bored at any moment
Anyway, this is my new personality and that's all.
Thank you Netgalley for providing digital advanced copy in exchange for honest review.
"Will you stand with me against my enemies and help me build my empire?"
"I will," Talasyn said over a racing heartbeat, through the chill of the knowledge that she was lying. He placed the crown on her head."
oh wow oh wow oh wow oh wow-
that was so intense, I couldn't stop reading and I was feeling so many things at once my face literally overheated and people kept asking me whether I'm okey.
spoiler: I'm not.
ik this book isn't even realised yet, but I need the 3rd book on my table rn.
every single scene with Alaric and Talasyn made me feral, I love them and I basically highlighted their every interaction. it was ✨️perfection✨️
this book is definitely more character than plot driven and is a little slower in action than the first one, so I see why some people rated it lower, but for me it was even better, we got to explore Alaric and Talasyn very complicated relationship and learn more about their feelings and fears. And it was so well written that I wasn't bored at any moment
Anyway, this is my new personality and that's all.
Thank you Netgalley for providing digital advanced copy in exchange for honest review.
April 14, 2025
5/5
Niegdyś walczyli po przeciwnej stronie frontu, teraz jednoczą się, by wspólnie pokonać większe zło. Nie zapominają jednak o tym co ich podzieliło, spiskując za swoimi plecami, przyczyniając się do upadku tego drugiego. W ferworze emocji, pojawiła się jednak iskra, której nawet monsun nie jest w stanie ugasić.
Pierwszy tom bardzo mi się podobał ale ten to jest istne arcydzieło. Od pierwszej do ostatniej strony przepadłam dla tej historii i bohaterów.
Zryw monsunowy to romantasy militarne bo przy bitwie, którą toczą ze sobą Alaric i Talasyn, pojawia się tu sporo wątków politycznych, rebelia, oraz próby obalenia cesarstwa. Uwielbiam świat, który wytworzyła autorka jak i system magii. Jest on prosty ale momentami nieprzewidywalny.
W oku cyklonu są jednak oni. Alaric i Talasyn. Ich relacja rozwija się powoli od pierwszego tomu, wzbierają nad nią chmury poczucia winy, gdy ona zaczyna coś do niego czuć choć wie, że to zdrada jej ludu, i gdy on przepada dla niej choć wie, że jeśli wyjdzie to na jaw, jego ojciec pozbędzie się ich oboje.
Ich romans to drobne gesty, spojrzenia. Ogromne napięcie w każdej scenie oraz odrobina nieśmiałości w tej niestabilnej relacji. To jest dla definicja idealnego romantasy, gdzie on naprawdę zniszczy dla niej świat, jeśli tylko będzie mógł spojrzeć na nią jeszcze raz. Ta para nie ma problemu ćwiczyć ze sobą i walczyć do ostatniego tchu, ale gdy przychodzi do mówienia o uczuciach, rozpoczynają grę, w której jedno w końcu musi opuścić gardę, gdyż oboje są znakomitymi wojownikami.
To co autorka zrobiła ze mną, jest nie do opisania. Z pewnością sięgnę już po każdą jej książkę widząc jak cudownie kreuje swoich bohaterów i czekam na finałowy tom.
Niegdyś walczyli po przeciwnej stronie frontu, teraz jednoczą się, by wspólnie pokonać większe zło. Nie zapominają jednak o tym co ich podzieliło, spiskując za swoimi plecami, przyczyniając się do upadku tego drugiego. W ferworze emocji, pojawiła się jednak iskra, której nawet monsun nie jest w stanie ugasić.
Pierwszy tom bardzo mi się podobał ale ten to jest istne arcydzieło. Od pierwszej do ostatniej strony przepadłam dla tej historii i bohaterów.
Zryw monsunowy to romantasy militarne bo przy bitwie, którą toczą ze sobą Alaric i Talasyn, pojawia się tu sporo wątków politycznych, rebelia, oraz próby obalenia cesarstwa. Uwielbiam świat, który wytworzyła autorka jak i system magii. Jest on prosty ale momentami nieprzewidywalny.
W oku cyklonu są jednak oni. Alaric i Talasyn. Ich relacja rozwija się powoli od pierwszego tomu, wzbierają nad nią chmury poczucia winy, gdy ona zaczyna coś do niego czuć choć wie, że to zdrada jej ludu, i gdy on przepada dla niej choć wie, że jeśli wyjdzie to na jaw, jego ojciec pozbędzie się ich oboje.
Ich romans to drobne gesty, spojrzenia. Ogromne napięcie w każdej scenie oraz odrobina nieśmiałości w tej niestabilnej relacji. To jest dla definicja idealnego romantasy, gdzie on naprawdę zniszczy dla niej świat, jeśli tylko będzie mógł spojrzeć na nią jeszcze raz. Ta para nie ma problemu ćwiczyć ze sobą i walczyć do ostatniego tchu, ale gdy przychodzi do mówienia o uczuciach, rozpoczynają grę, w której jedno w końcu musi opuścić gardę, gdyż oboje są znakomitymi wojownikami.
To co autorka zrobiła ze mną, jest nie do opisania. Z pewnością sięgnę już po każdą jej książkę widząc jak cudownie kreuje swoich bohaterów i czekam na finałowy tom.
April 3, 2025
ŻYJE DLA ROMANTASY TEGO TYPU!!
✨P E R F E K C J A✨ to słowo idealne do opisania tej książki!
Alaric i Talasyn i ich skomplikowana relacja? Uhhh tego typu napięcia i skomplikowania oczekuję!
DAWAĆ TRZECI TOM
✨P E R F E K C J A✨ to słowo idealne do opisania tej książki!
Alaric i Talasyn i ich skomplikowana relacja? Uhhh tego typu napięcia i skomplikowania oczekuję!
DAWAĆ TRZECI TOM
August 20, 2025
so many things started to make sense when I remembered they were both horny virgins
August 3, 2024
"It would be so easy to love you in a different life."
(3.5⭐)
okay im going to be so real but that was unexpectedly much more disappointing of a sequel than i ever imagined?? i was literally BEYOND hyped to read AMR but honestly? this felt like it got hit with second book syndrome and im so disappointed--and that's not to say that it was *bad* but i was really hoping for another 5 star like i gave THW🥲
reading AMR was truly a strange experience. on one hand i did adore talasyn's and alaric's interactions BUT on the other?? where was that spark i felt in their relationship back in THW?? it felt as though there was a constant glass wall in front of me while reading where i couldnt fully be invested in their relationship as i was in THW--i would literally have the silliest of grins and that heart-pounding excitement whenever i read their scenes. but here? while there were a few moments that made me laugh or go aww, it just didn't feel the same.
one thing i will say that was really well done though was the inner conflict in talasyn and alaric. individually it did feel as though their characters grew... otherwise i just didnt feel the same *obsessed* feeling i did while reading THW and honestly that just makes me really sad.
another thing is that where was the plot??😭 i genuinely feel like nothing happened really except in the last 25%ish but for the whole world being at stake, i didnt really feel any sense of urgency or high stakes while reading? and i couldve possibly ignored the lack of plot had there been something to keep me invested but there wasnt really?? its just crazy because while THW had me gripped from beginning to end and filled with tension and excitement in literally every scene, i did NOT get that same feeling at all here.
i will say the ending did make me gasp but also WHERE DID THAT EVEN COME FROM??? IT FELT SO RANDOM??? and thats all ill say about that. otherwise im feeling a whole lot of nothing after finishing this book?
still, there were some cute moments and progress in talasyn and alaric's romance and individual characters! and while im forever disappointed this didnt live up to my expectations, im definitely still going to be reading book 3 and hope that its a brilliant and amazing book to make up for book 2.
Many thanks to Avon and Harper Voyager for gifting me an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review!!
_____________
edit [June 10, 2024]: oh my god??? SCREAMING. thank you so much harpercollins for the eARC im gonna cry this just made my week🥹 ALARIC AND TALASYN MY BELOVEDS🫶
__________
ON MY KNEES BEGGING NETGALLEY TO ACCEPT MY ARC REQUEST PLEASE🙏
i need more of my loves alaric and talasyn asap
Want to read
March 6, 2024chop chop thea
A TITLE!
A TITLE!
April 27, 2025
4.25🌟 BDHSHSJAHSSH I TO JEST TYP ROMANTASY, JAKIE CHCĘ CZYTAĆ 😩
Przez ostatnie zawody beznadziejnymi hitami booktoka myślałam, że już nie lubię romantasy i czas się z nim pożegnać, A JEDNAK NIE! 💖
JAK JA PRZEŻYWAŁAM TEN ROMANS! W KOŃCU KTOŚ ZBUDOWAŁ NAPIĘCIE MIEDZY BOHATERAMI, nie zapomniał, że oni mają wyznaczone jakieś cele! Jak to mi się przyjemnie czytało! 😩 Każda interakcja między główną parą wyciągała ze mnie przeróżne dźwięki, aż miałam nawet ochotę zrobić salto - tylko szkoda, że nie umiem. TAK SUPER SIĘ NA TYM BAWIŁAM AAAAAAA, CHCĘ JUŻ 3 TOM, BO CZUJĘ, ŻE BĘDZIE MOCNY!
(kocham reylo)
Przez ostatnie zawody beznadziejnymi hitami booktoka myślałam, że już nie lubię romantasy i czas się z nim pożegnać, A JEDNAK NIE! 💖
JAK JA PRZEŻYWAŁAM TEN ROMANS! W KOŃCU KTOŚ ZBUDOWAŁ NAPIĘCIE MIEDZY BOHATERAMI, nie zapomniał, że oni mają wyznaczone jakieś cele! Jak to mi się przyjemnie czytało! 😩 Każda interakcja między główną parą wyciągała ze mnie przeróżne dźwięki, aż miałam nawet ochotę zrobić salto - tylko szkoda, że nie umiem. TAK SUPER SIĘ NA TYM BAWIŁAM AAAAAAA, CHCĘ JUŻ 3 TOM, BO CZUJĘ, ŻE BĘDZIE MOCNY!
(kocham reylo)
December 9, 2024
Although this was enjoyable I feel like it did suffer from middle book syndrome, aside from the ending nothing really happened.
Let’s start positively, I loved that as soon as I started reading The Hurricane Wars world, plot and characters came straight back to me proving itself to be memorable.
I also really enjoyed the banter with her father Elagbi, it always made me laugh when he was on page. Same with Sevarim.
However it focused so heavily on the romance which I’m not necessarily opposed to but I wish it was more balanced with court politics and the plot.
the actual plot of this book was hard to establish, training to take on the moonless dark, spice, then taking on the moonless dark, the end?
I also had high hopes of the magic system being explored more especially the other magics like the wind, thunder etc, I definitely enjoyed The Hurricane Wars more than this book but I will go ahead and finish the series and hope the final book is explosive
Let’s start positively, I loved that as soon as I started reading The Hurricane Wars world, plot and characters came straight back to me proving itself to be memorable.
I also really enjoyed the banter with her father Elagbi, it always made me laugh when he was on page. Same with Sevarim.
However it focused so heavily on the romance which I’m not necessarily opposed to but I wish it was more balanced with court politics and the plot.
the actual plot of this book was hard to establish, training to take on the moonless dark, spice, then taking on the moonless dark, the end?
I also had high hopes of the magic system being explored more especially the other magics like the wind, thunder etc, I definitely enjoyed The Hurricane Wars more than this book but I will go ahead and finish the series and hope the final book is explosive
August 16, 2024
Star Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice Rating: Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read the full review on my blog!
Synopsis
A continuation of the first book in the Hurricane Wars. Alaric and Talasyn continue their adventure to prevent the night of the world eater to save the realm from destruction.
Thoughts
When I first applied for the ARC of this book, I hadn’t yet read the first one, though I had it on loan from the library. I’ve been in a major reading slump for the past few months, but this series jolted me right back into reading. I rarely order a physical copy after reading an ARC, given the limited space in my library, but after finishing this book, I immediately ordered both the B&N US Special Edition and the Waterstones Special Edition. Now, I’m on the hunt for the special edition of the first book.
The first 30% of the first book was a bit hard to get into with all the new information and characters being introduced, but after that, I couldn’t put either of these books down. I read both in a two-day span. My only regret is starting another incomplete series and having to wait a year to find out how Alaric and Talasyn’s story ends.
Spice Rating: Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Read the full review on my blog!
“What have you done to me”
Synopsis
A continuation of the first book in the Hurricane Wars. Alaric and Talasyn continue their adventure to prevent the night of the world eater to save the realm from destruction.
Thoughts
When I first applied for the ARC of this book, I hadn’t yet read the first one, though I had it on loan from the library. I’ve been in a major reading slump for the past few months, but this series jolted me right back into reading. I rarely order a physical copy after reading an ARC, given the limited space in my library, but after finishing this book, I immediately ordered both the B&N US Special Edition and the Waterstones Special Edition. Now, I’m on the hunt for the special edition of the first book.
The first 30% of the first book was a bit hard to get into with all the new information and characters being introduced, but after that, I couldn’t put either of these books down. I read both in a two-day span. My only regret is starting another incomplete series and having to wait a year to find out how Alaric and Talasyn’s story ends.
September 4, 2024
My two little idiots were so hot and dumb in this second book too. I love them so much!
The plot: amazing
The romance: amazing (I’m screaming)
The cliffhanger: amazing (I’m dying inside)
The tension: amazing (I’m kicking my feet)
The worldbuilding: amazing
TEN TEN TEN ACROSS THE BOARD.
Thanks to HarperVoyager US, Netgalley and the author for providing me with this ARC!
Full review to come.
The plot: amazing
The romance: amazing (I’m screaming)
The cliffhanger: amazing (I’m dying inside)
The tension: amazing (I’m kicking my feet)
The worldbuilding: amazing
TEN TEN TEN ACROSS THE BOARD.
Thanks to HarperVoyager US, Netgalley and the author for providing me with this ARC!
Full review to come.
February 21, 2025
🎧 the audiobook read better for this than for The Hurricane Wars because of the dual narrators, although duet style might have been best.
••••••••••••••
Happy Pub Day! I am having serious FOMO from seeing all the beautiful physical copies on socials today. I will be stalking the tracking until my copy gets shipped in. 🫠🫠🫠
•••••••••••••••••
♾️/5⭐ 4/5🌶️
After a few weeks of letting it marinate, I have officially decided that A Monsoon Rising is officially my favorite romantasy of the year. This series is a work of art. It was such a freaking emotional rollercoaster: The cost of war. Politics. Betrayal. Ever-shifting alliances. Angst. Pining. Political Marriage. Forbidden love/lust. Dragons. Ancient magic.
I mean this so sincerely, I am still in shock that I was selected to read this eARC. The scream that I hollered when I read the email was not natural. 😂 A Monsoon Rising was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 and I DEVOURED it. The cliffhanger is BRUTAL and honestly I can't wait to start my reread of the series when my physical copy comes in on Pub Day.
More often than not, I find that if I love the first book in a trilogy, the next book tends to have a bad case of second-book syndrome. A Monsoon Rising seamlessly continues the plotlines of The Hurricane Wars and elevates the deliciously complicated relationships of the characters. The lush, beautiful world building and the complicated politics extend beyond just Alaric and Talasyn; festering old wounds and political conflicts heavily influence the story development and leave the reader with a sense of betrayal lurking in the background.
I really enjoyed the banter and interpersonal relationship building that happened in this novel. Sevraim and Elagbi are the comedic heroes of the book. It was a treat to be able to get to know the characters in a more intimate, humorous way. The chicken scene had me cackling. 😂
There are a ton of nods to the Reylo source material and the microtropes throughout are delightful. The "my wife" was "my wife"ing. The spice was exponentially heavier in this novel and the buildup/tension was perfect. They want each other. They want to fight each other. They want to fight while they explore each other. It is deliciously angsty and a lot of "two-idiots-in-love-but-we-aren't-addressing-it" kinda vibes. Alsooo, Alaric has a filthy mouth and I am here for it.
The angst is amplified by the imminent danger of the Voidfell, they are sworn enemies now political spouses, working together to save the world as they know it. While hopeful to succeed, they both have this looming anxiety about betraying the other after the Voidfell is defeated. It is this battle of duty against desire. It is so very Reylo-coded in the best way.
The cliffhanger was a SHOCK. Out of left field and I very nearly always guess the plot twist. I don't know what to do with myself until the third installation of the series comes out. It is almost cruel. I need it like yesterday. 🐀🐀🐀
Anticipated Publication Day: December 10, 2024
A HUMONGOUS thank you to Thea Guanzon, NetGalley, and Avon & Harper Voyager for this eARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
•••••••••••••
Not to be hyperbolic, but this is a top contender for my favorite romantasy of this year.
••••••••••••••
OMG. OMFGGGGG. What the actual hell? 😳😵💫 That cliffhanger is intense. Review in a bit.
••••••••••••••
Happy Pub Day! I am having serious FOMO from seeing all the beautiful physical copies on socials today. I will be stalking the tracking until my copy gets shipped in. 🫠🫠🫠
•••••••••••••••••
♾️/5⭐ 4/5🌶️
After a few weeks of letting it marinate, I have officially decided that A Monsoon Rising is officially my favorite romantasy of the year. This series is a work of art. It was such a freaking emotional rollercoaster: The cost of war. Politics. Betrayal. Ever-shifting alliances. Angst. Pining. Political Marriage. Forbidden love/lust. Dragons. Ancient magic.
I mean this so sincerely, I am still in shock that I was selected to read this eARC. The scream that I hollered when I read the email was not natural. 😂 A Monsoon Rising was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024 and I DEVOURED it. The cliffhanger is BRUTAL and honestly I can't wait to start my reread of the series when my physical copy comes in on Pub Day.
More often than not, I find that if I love the first book in a trilogy, the next book tends to have a bad case of second-book syndrome. A Monsoon Rising seamlessly continues the plotlines of The Hurricane Wars and elevates the deliciously complicated relationships of the characters. The lush, beautiful world building and the complicated politics extend beyond just Alaric and Talasyn; festering old wounds and political conflicts heavily influence the story development and leave the reader with a sense of betrayal lurking in the background.
I really enjoyed the banter and interpersonal relationship building that happened in this novel. Sevraim and Elagbi are the comedic heroes of the book. It was a treat to be able to get to know the characters in a more intimate, humorous way. The chicken scene had me cackling. 😂
There are a ton of nods to the Reylo source material and the microtropes throughout are delightful. The "my wife" was "my wife"ing. The spice was exponentially heavier in this novel and the buildup/tension was perfect. They want each other. They want to fight each other. They want to fight while they explore each other. It is deliciously angsty and a lot of "two-idiots-in-love-but-we-aren't-addressing-it" kinda vibes. Alsooo, Alaric has a filthy mouth and I am here for it.
The angst is amplified by the imminent danger of the Voidfell, they are sworn enemies now political spouses, working together to save the world as they know it. While hopeful to succeed, they both have this looming anxiety about betraying the other after the Voidfell is defeated. It is this battle of duty against desire. It is so very Reylo-coded in the best way.
The cliffhanger was a SHOCK. Out of left field and I very nearly always guess the plot twist. I don't know what to do with myself until the third installation of the series comes out. It is almost cruel. I need it like yesterday. 🐀🐀🐀
Anticipated Publication Day: December 10, 2024
A HUMONGOUS thank you to Thea Guanzon, NetGalley, and Avon & Harper Voyager for this eARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review.
•••••••••••••
Not to be hyperbolic, but this is a top contender for my favorite romantasy of this year.
••••••••••••••
OMG. OMFGGGGG. What the actual hell? 😳😵💫 That cliffhanger is intense. Review in a bit.
June 13, 2025
Pues me ha encantado y no sé si he terminado con el libro, o el libro ha terminado conmigo. ¿Qué hago con mi vida mientras espero a que se publique el tercero?
En este libro hay más intrigas, tensión, acción y mucho más romance y acercamientos entre los dos protagonistas. Amando mucho a Alaric y Talasyn. Mira, yo no puedo con el shipeo y lo mucho que amé a Alaric (mi nuevo crush). TENÉIS QUE LEER ESTOS LIBROS Y PUNTO.
En este libro hay más intrigas, tensión, acción y mucho más romance y acercamientos entre los dos protagonistas. Amando mucho a Alaric y Talasyn. Mira, yo no puedo con el shipeo y lo mucho que amé a Alaric (mi nuevo crush). TENÉIS QUE LEER ESTOS LIBROS Y PUNTO.
![Profile Image for Saskia [University era].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1768679370i%2F149946010._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
May 28, 2025
✧.* 3,5 star read
⤷ this book felt a bit too slow for me
╰┈➤ ❝“You should never flirt again,” he said. “It might be the end of me.”
---------------------------------------
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! I prefer book 1 a bit more
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! more romance aspects in this book + tension
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! book 3 is NOT announced yet, will it ever be released??
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! that ending was brutal
---------------------------------------
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! she has to go to his realm.
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! both think about the first night and the fact that she said that it was a mistake
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! tensions in his court
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! He gets punished by his dad in the Aaron Warner dad's style. (Ch.7)
⤷ She waits in his bedroom and sees that he's injured.
⤷ Asks who did this to him and took care of his wounds
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! she falls into the ocean and he saves her
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! angry rain confession and kiss (p214-215)
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! Chapter 20 that's it.
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! ballroom scene
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! jealousy scenes
---------------------------------------
🪭 ''So, what exactly is the plan, oh great rescuer?''
''We could start with not being assholes, for one.'' she hissed, ''but I suspect that such restraint is far beyond your capabilities.''
He shrugged. '' I do not believe its attainable for you, either.''
🪭 And yet Talasyn kept circling back to that night in his chambers, how he'd been so broken, how he'd asked her to be kind. How sweetly he'd kissed her.
🪭“Talasyn flashed Alaric a small, hopeful smile. “Pretty, isn’t it?”
He was looking at her when he said, “Yes.”
🪭“First of all,” he said through gritted teeth, “I don’t know how to react to you. You are infuriating and self-righteous and you get under my skin. Secondly, there have never been any other women—there was never anyone before you—and much to my dismay you have provoked me so much that you’ve wormed your way into my dreams. You are the only one who plagues them. And one last thing”—his voice lowered into a growl—“the next time I kiss you, I want to remember it.”
Raindrops dotted his cheek as he bent down. Lightning streaked the sky as he pulled her to him. The Eversea’s dark waves slammed against the shore as he crushed his lips to hers.”
🪭“Be kind to me, Alaric had said. He’d been at her mercy, broken and bruised and the valerian ensuring that he had no defenses left, and that was what he’d asked of her. Be kind to me.”
⤷ this book felt a bit too slow for me
╰┈➤ ❝“You should never flirt again,” he said. “It might be the end of me.”
---------------------------------------
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! I prefer book 1 a bit more
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! more romance aspects in this book + tension
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! book 3 is NOT announced yet, will it ever be released??
·˚🍒 ᝰ* !! that ending was brutal
---------------------------------------
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! she has to go to his realm.
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! both think about the first night and the fact that she said that it was a mistake
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! tensions in his court
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! He gets punished by his dad in the Aaron Warner dad's style. (Ch.7)
⤷ She waits in his bedroom and sees that he's injured.
⤷ Asks who did this to him and took care of his wounds
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! she falls into the ocean and he saves her
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! angry rain confession and kiss (p214-215)
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! Chapter 20 that's it.
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! ballroom scene
──★ ˙🍓 ̟ !! jealousy scenes
---------------------------------------
🪭 ''So, what exactly is the plan, oh great rescuer?''
''We could start with not being assholes, for one.'' she hissed, ''but I suspect that such restraint is far beyond your capabilities.''
He shrugged. '' I do not believe its attainable for you, either.''
🪭 And yet Talasyn kept circling back to that night in his chambers, how he'd been so broken, how he'd asked her to be kind. How sweetly he'd kissed her.
🪭“Talasyn flashed Alaric a small, hopeful smile. “Pretty, isn’t it?”
He was looking at her when he said, “Yes.”
🪭“First of all,” he said through gritted teeth, “I don’t know how to react to you. You are infuriating and self-righteous and you get under my skin. Secondly, there have never been any other women—there was never anyone before you—and much to my dismay you have provoked me so much that you’ve wormed your way into my dreams. You are the only one who plagues them. And one last thing”—his voice lowered into a growl—“the next time I kiss you, I want to remember it.”
Raindrops dotted his cheek as he bent down. Lightning streaked the sky as he pulled her to him. The Eversea’s dark waves slammed against the shore as he crushed his lips to hers.”
🪭“Be kind to me, Alaric had said. He’d been at her mercy, broken and bruised and the valerian ensuring that he had no defenses left, and that was what he’d asked of her. Be kind to me.”
January 12, 2025
The west wind sighs, all moons die. Bakun, dreaming of his lost love, rises to eat the world above.
Can I just say…WOW.
*I highly recommend listening to the interview the podcast BookTalk for BookTok did with Thea Guanzon if you plan on reading this series! You learn more about Guanzon’s Filipino background which is deeply embedded into the writing and world-building.
★ ★ ★ ★ 4.75 Stars (maybe 5 I can’t decide)
The hugest thank you to HarperVoyager and NetGalley for the ARC! I did end up buying myself a personal copy.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
A Monsoon Rising continues exactly where we leave off from The Hurricane Wars. Talasyn heads to Kesath to be ordained as Night Empress to Alaric, and a skirmish breaks out between the Kesathese and the Dominion - quickly demonstrating Talasyn’s heart toward Alaric. A month later, Alaric returns to Nenavar to practice for the Moonless Night during Voidfell. They must use their opposing magicks to work together to save Lir from the death that Voidfell causes. Along the way, they must work through their feelings, political expectations, and what the Voidfell actually is.
At the dawning of the world, you were there. You have seen the first dragon’s heart.
✩₊˚.⋆ We Get:
😮💨Enemies to lovers (but still kind of enemies)
🤭Forced proximity because of the marriage
🙂↕️Incredibly rich world-building and prose
🤔World/magic system vibes reminiscent of Star Wars and Dune
🫢Alaric and Talasyn sparring
🫡Reylo vibes
😍Dragons
🙂↔️Betrayal
🫠LOTS OF SPICE
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
✩₊˚.⋆ Talasyn: Our Lachis’ka and Night Empress is growing into her role and political domain. With this, her ability to LightWeave continues to improve with her necessary training with Alaric. Talasyn has to wrestle with her traitorous emotions for Alaric while trying to support a rebellion for the Continent. She is still annoyingly unable to harness her tongue at times, but she’s a little better.
✩₊˚.⋆ Alaric: By far my favourite character, maybe because I see myself in him. He is still very much a decoy for his father, Gaheris, who physically abuses Alaric if he does not succumb to his wishes. However, Alaric has his own little rebellion against his father as he and Talasyn grow closer, and he swears to himself to protect her. He even gets black whorling scars on his face 🫢
The Plot. Okay, so I’m assuming this is a trilogy? I guess I haven’t heard otherwise from Guanzon. I was incredibly impressed with the plot and writing considering this is the middle book - it did not suffer from middle book syndrome at all. In fact, this was a huge step up from book one. I thought it was fantastic and had me gripped. The main plot for this book is for Alaric and Talasyn to prevent the upcoming Voidfell from destroying Nenavar as well as the Continent, as well as both sides trying to prepare for War.
✩₊˚.⋆ THE. CHEMISTRY. Holy holy. 😮💨 There is something to be said about spice written by an author who originally wrote fanfic. She knows what she’s doing. We got nothing for like a book and a half. And then we got everything.
Reasons points were lost: Honestly, there were times when I was reading and I would be so confused, and then things got cleared up a few pages later. We’d be dipped in to a situation without a clear explanation of what was happening. Do keep in mind I read an ARC, so this may not be the finalized product.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
I’m seriously impressed with this book. It was written so beautifully, the plot was well constructed. I haven’t read such a rich fantasy in awhile. I’d say this book is definitely epic high fantasy - you’re truly transported to a new world that has customs and words and systems you have to learn. I am so excited for the next!
pre-read:
you’re jokinggggggg I GOT THE ARC!? 😧 this is the most excited i’ve ever been for an arc 🥹
*I highly recommend listening to the interview the podcast BookTalk for BookTok did with Thea Guanzon if you plan on reading this series! You learn more about Guanzon’s Filipino background which is deeply embedded into the writing and world-building.
★ ★ ★ ★ 4.75 Stars (maybe 5 I can’t decide)
The hugest thank you to HarperVoyager and NetGalley for the ARC! I did end up buying myself a personal copy.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
A Monsoon Rising continues exactly where we leave off from The Hurricane Wars. Talasyn heads to Kesath to be ordained as Night Empress to Alaric, and a skirmish breaks out between the Kesathese and the Dominion - quickly demonstrating Talasyn’s heart toward Alaric. A month later, Alaric returns to Nenavar to practice for the Moonless Night during Voidfell. They must use their opposing magicks to work together to save Lir from the death that Voidfell causes. Along the way, they must work through their feelings, political expectations, and what the Voidfell actually is.
At the dawning of the world, you were there. You have seen the first dragon’s heart.
✩₊˚.⋆ We Get:
😮💨Enemies to lovers (but still kind of enemies)
🤭Forced proximity because of the marriage
🙂↕️Incredibly rich world-building and prose
🤔World/magic system vibes reminiscent of Star Wars and Dune
🫢Alaric and Talasyn sparring
🫡Reylo vibes
😍Dragons
🙂↔️Betrayal
🫠LOTS OF SPICE
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
✩₊˚.⋆ Talasyn: Our Lachis’ka and Night Empress is growing into her role and political domain. With this, her ability to LightWeave continues to improve with her necessary training with Alaric. Talasyn has to wrestle with her traitorous emotions for Alaric while trying to support a rebellion for the Continent. She is still annoyingly unable to harness her tongue at times, but she’s a little better.
✩₊˚.⋆ Alaric: By far my favourite character, maybe because I see myself in him. He is still very much a decoy for his father, Gaheris, who physically abuses Alaric if he does not succumb to his wishes. However, Alaric has his own little rebellion against his father as he and Talasyn grow closer, and he swears to himself to protect her. He even gets black whorling scars on his face 🫢
The Plot. Okay, so I’m assuming this is a trilogy? I guess I haven’t heard otherwise from Guanzon. I was incredibly impressed with the plot and writing considering this is the middle book - it did not suffer from middle book syndrome at all. In fact, this was a huge step up from book one. I thought it was fantastic and had me gripped. The main plot for this book is for Alaric and Talasyn to prevent the upcoming Voidfell from destroying Nenavar as well as the Continent, as well as both sides trying to prepare for War.
✩₊˚.⋆ THE. CHEMISTRY. Holy holy. 😮💨 There is something to be said about spice written by an author who originally wrote fanfic. She knows what she’s doing. We got nothing for like a book and a half. And then we got everything.
Reasons points were lost: Honestly, there were times when I was reading and I would be so confused, and then things got cleared up a few pages later. We’d be dipped in to a situation without a clear explanation of what was happening. Do keep in mind I read an ARC, so this may not be the finalized product.
✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧
I’m seriously impressed with this book. It was written so beautifully, the plot was well constructed. I haven’t read such a rich fantasy in awhile. I’d say this book is definitely epic high fantasy - you’re truly transported to a new world that has customs and words and systems you have to learn. I am so excited for the next!
pre-read:
you’re jokinggggggg I GOT THE ARC!? 😧 this is the most excited i’ve ever been for an arc 🥹
December 22, 2024
3⭐️
i lived for talasyn and alaric but what was the point of this book genuinely
i lived for talasyn and alaric but what was the point of this book genuinely
January 2, 2026
⊱ ۫ ׅ ✧ 1 star . . . 1 2 / 2 1 / 2 5 !
🧷 # content warnings: sexual content, war
( 01. ) overall thoughts !
save an entire country or sleep with your enemy—hmm, decisions, decisions 🤕🤕 the fact that this is treated as a genuine moral dilemma is where the book completely lost me. when a story frames saving her people and saving the man she loves whom also happens to be in a war with her people as comparable choices, that's when i start checking out. i (fortunately!) have better books to read. i'm not even here to point out the morality of her choices, just the stupidity.
anyways, i read the hurricane wars (book 1) quite a while ago, and while i don't remember much, i remember that it was fun, interesting enough, and as tropey as it was, it did said tropes much better than the average romantasy book. idk about u guys but i thought this book was so much worse. the worst part is that it had me in the first half, i was enjoying myself, but as luck would have it, the romantasy genre once again failed me 😔 this sequel felt less like a continuation of a political fantasy series and more like a single, stretched-out relationship dilemma that went absolutely nowhere. i just could not take anything seriously. instead of deepening the world, politics, or magic we are put into a repetitive loop of "oh i love him" but "oh he's my enemy" but "oh his chest and his voice 😍" LIKE please FREE ME.
( 02. ) plot summary !
following the events of the hurricane wars, talasyn and alaric are forced into a political marriage meant to end generations of war between their nations. talasyn plays the role of alaric's loyal empress while secretly working with her sardovian allies to undermine his rule. meaningwhile, a looming magical catastrophe, the moonless dark, "a cataclysmic magical event that could devour everything," threatens the world and only the combined power of light and shadow can stop it.
that would be the blurb you would probably find on the book, however, i would argue the plot is really just about talasyn and alaric circling each other, resisting and indulging their attraction, sleeping together, pulling away, and then doing it all again. the plot barely advances, everything felt flat and strangely inconsequential. i saw some reviews saying the plot twist was insane, so i stayed to see what would happen, and i regret doing so. that was definitely one of if not the most anticlimatic plot twists i've ever read in my life.
( 03. ) characters !
⊹ “ you will address me as your grace, and then after my coronation as the night empress, you will call me your majesty. ” ₊
talasyn literally made me lose braincells wth. apparently we are supposed to believe she is a capable leader when she can't even decide on her feelings for her husband. she constantly goes through this same loop: duty vs. desire, country vs. alaric over and over and over again. LIKE GIRL there are people dying!!! again like any fantasy book the narrative tells us how strong and intelligent talasyn is, but her choices don't reflect any thinking or growth. i am simply tired, i don't want to read a page of this girl's thoughts ever again!
⊹ “ you have provoked me so much that you've wormed your way into my dreams. you are the only one who plagues them. ” ₊
alaric tbh i thought he was fine in the first book, when did he get so insufferable??? alaric somehow regresses in this book. again he suffers from the same shallow moral dilemma as talasyn. imagine tiring from reading about their conflict from talasyn's pov only to read about it once again in alaric's pov. his brooding, possessive behaviour dominates his characterization, to the point where it borders on childish. and i brought proof! there's one scene in the novel where he repeats "i don't want to share" in reference to talasyn. like are you a toddler clutching a toy???
( 04. ) romance !
⊹ “ pretty isn't it? ”
he was looking at her when he said,
“ yes ” ₊
this is where the book really lost me. the entire story is literally about the push and pull between talasyn and alaric. that's it. scene after scene revisits the same dynamic: they shouldn't want each other, they do anyway, they think about that sex scene from book one (constantly), they give in, then angst about it again. they were so lusty and juvenile like please we are grown adults.
( 05. ) final thoughts !
this was actually really bad and i am so glad i am free. if you read the first book (which is arguably better), you will probably assume this book will exceed expectations, but it doesn't. i was on the fence about continuing this series, but now i know i won't be.
⊱ ۫ ׅ ✧ pre read read the first book over a year ago and i don't remember a single thing, except that i had a fun time 🧍♀️ anyways, i hope this emotionally destroys me!
🧷 # content warnings: sexual content, war
“ let's tear it all down. and let's build a life together. ”
( 01. ) overall thoughts !
save an entire country or sleep with your enemy—hmm, decisions, decisions 🤕🤕 the fact that this is treated as a genuine moral dilemma is where the book completely lost me. when a story frames saving her people and saving the man she loves whom also happens to be in a war with her people as comparable choices, that's when i start checking out. i (fortunately!) have better books to read. i'm not even here to point out the morality of her choices, just the stupidity.
anyways, i read the hurricane wars (book 1) quite a while ago, and while i don't remember much, i remember that it was fun, interesting enough, and as tropey as it was, it did said tropes much better than the average romantasy book. idk about u guys but i thought this book was so much worse. the worst part is that it had me in the first half, i was enjoying myself, but as luck would have it, the romantasy genre once again failed me 😔 this sequel felt less like a continuation of a political fantasy series and more like a single, stretched-out relationship dilemma that went absolutely nowhere. i just could not take anything seriously. instead of deepening the world, politics, or magic we are put into a repetitive loop of "oh i love him" but "oh he's my enemy" but "oh his chest and his voice 😍" LIKE please FREE ME.
( 02. ) plot summary !
following the events of the hurricane wars, talasyn and alaric are forced into a political marriage meant to end generations of war between their nations. talasyn plays the role of alaric's loyal empress while secretly working with her sardovian allies to undermine his rule. meaningwhile, a looming magical catastrophe, the moonless dark, "a cataclysmic magical event that could devour everything," threatens the world and only the combined power of light and shadow can stop it.
that would be the blurb you would probably find on the book, however, i would argue the plot is really just about talasyn and alaric circling each other, resisting and indulging their attraction, sleeping together, pulling away, and then doing it all again. the plot barely advances, everything felt flat and strangely inconsequential. i saw some reviews saying the plot twist was insane, so i stayed to see what would happen, and i regret doing so. that was definitely one of if not the most anticlimatic plot twists i've ever read in my life.
( 03. ) characters !
⊹ “ you will address me as your grace, and then after my coronation as the night empress, you will call me your majesty. ” ₊
talasyn literally made me lose braincells wth. apparently we are supposed to believe she is a capable leader when she can't even decide on her feelings for her husband. she constantly goes through this same loop: duty vs. desire, country vs. alaric over and over and over again. LIKE GIRL there are people dying!!! again like any fantasy book the narrative tells us how strong and intelligent talasyn is, but her choices don't reflect any thinking or growth. i am simply tired, i don't want to read a page of this girl's thoughts ever again!
⊹ “ you have provoked me so much that you've wormed your way into my dreams. you are the only one who plagues them. ” ₊
— “ what am i, if i'm not a weapon? what have you done to me? ”
alaric tbh i thought he was fine in the first book, when did he get so insufferable??? alaric somehow regresses in this book. again he suffers from the same shallow moral dilemma as talasyn. imagine tiring from reading about their conflict from talasyn's pov only to read about it once again in alaric's pov. his brooding, possessive behaviour dominates his characterization, to the point where it borders on childish. and i brought proof! there's one scene in the novel where he repeats "i don't want to share" in reference to talasyn. like are you a toddler clutching a toy???
( 04. ) romance !
⊹ “ pretty isn't it? ”
he was looking at her when he said,
“ yes ” ₊
this is where the book really lost me. the entire story is literally about the push and pull between talasyn and alaric. that's it. scene after scene revisits the same dynamic: they shouldn't want each other, they do anyway, they think about that sex scene from book one (constantly), they give in, then angst about it again. they were so lusty and juvenile like please we are grown adults.
( 05. ) final thoughts !
this was actually really bad and i am so glad i am free. if you read the first book (which is arguably better), you will probably assume this book will exceed expectations, but it doesn't. i was on the fence about continuing this series, but now i know i won't be.
⊱ ۫ ׅ ✧ pre read read the first book over a year ago and i don't remember a single thing, except that i had a fun time 🧍♀️ anyways, i hope this emotionally destroys me!
November 25, 2024
Romantasy • ReyLo Fanfic • Enemies to Lovers
Pub Date • 10 December 2024
Thank you @harpervoyagerus and @netgalley for the digital ARC.
No second book slump here! Far more romance and less space opera than book one, you will still find urban fantasy fight scenes, mommy and daddy issues, insecurities/fear/pain masked by cruelty and arrogance, and... there be dragons! 🐉 If you thought the burning was slow in book one, it’s def turned up here as the enemies become lovers. 🌶️🌶️
I loved the parallels to the Star Wars universe and how aethermancy is analogous to the force with shadow magic and light weaver magic on opposing sides. Passed down through blood lines, skipping some generations in a game of chance. I loved the vivid descriptions of the Nenavarene court with its opulent attire, matriarchal culture, the humidity of the tropical isles, and delectably mouth-watering foods.
The author did a better job making some of the side characters more multi-dimensional, the two standouts being Elagbi and Sevraim. However, the spotlight is definitely still firmly centered on Talaysn and Alaric and their star crossed love story. I cried for the lonely, broken Alaric, who never had a kind word, forged into a weapon, tortured at the hands of Gaheris. I long for these two to have a happy ending.
✨ “𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚝, 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚘𝚏 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚎.” ✨
Pub Date • 10 December 2024
Thank you @harpervoyagerus and @netgalley for the digital ARC.
No second book slump here! Far more romance and less space opera than book one, you will still find urban fantasy fight scenes, mommy and daddy issues, insecurities/fear/pain masked by cruelty and arrogance, and... there be dragons! 🐉 If you thought the burning was slow in book one, it’s def turned up here as the enemies become lovers. 🌶️🌶️
I loved the parallels to the Star Wars universe and how aethermancy is analogous to the force with shadow magic and light weaver magic on opposing sides. Passed down through blood lines, skipping some generations in a game of chance. I loved the vivid descriptions of the Nenavarene court with its opulent attire, matriarchal culture, the humidity of the tropical isles, and delectably mouth-watering foods.
The author did a better job making some of the side characters more multi-dimensional, the two standouts being Elagbi and Sevraim. However, the spotlight is definitely still firmly centered on Talaysn and Alaric and their star crossed love story. I cried for the lonely, broken Alaric, who never had a kind word, forged into a weapon, tortured at the hands of Gaheris. I long for these two to have a happy ending.
✨ “𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎 𝚠𝚎 𝚖𝚎𝚝, 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗 𝚊 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖 𝚘𝚏 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚋𝚎.” ✨
December 13, 2025
Most enemies to lovers sequels never do well as it can’t pull off the antagonism or burning passion from the start. Monsoon Rising manages it despite sometimes feeling repetitive.
Both Alaric and Talasyn despise their growing attachment. They hate their body’s reactions. They both have ulterior motives.
Whilst this didn’t hit the highs of book one, it didn’t fall into the pit of most other enemies to lovers, but rather fell into the usual sequel filler pit holes.
This one definitely upped the steamy scenes which is made juicer by the fact the two don’t know how to feel about their feelings. Are they betraying themselves? Their country? Each other?
It is also both their first times which I appreciated. It was clumsy and awkward, but with added glamour romantasy gives every lustful scene.
My main complaint is that this felt filler for the majority of the plot. There is one big thing that happens, but it came out of left field and there was hardly any lingering.
I don’t know if the author saw some of the Reylo criticism because this felt less Star Wars than the first one.
I will continue on because the writing style and pacing is addictive and I am interested in the story as how everyone’s secrets will blow up in their faces.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Both Alaric and Talasyn despise their growing attachment. They hate their body’s reactions. They both have ulterior motives.
Whilst this didn’t hit the highs of book one, it didn’t fall into the pit of most other enemies to lovers, but rather fell into the usual sequel filler pit holes.
This one definitely upped the steamy scenes which is made juicer by the fact the two don’t know how to feel about their feelings. Are they betraying themselves? Their country? Each other?
It is also both their first times which I appreciated. It was clumsy and awkward, but with added glamour romantasy gives every lustful scene.
My main complaint is that this felt filler for the majority of the plot. There is one big thing that happens, but it came out of left field and there was hardly any lingering.
I don’t know if the author saw some of the Reylo criticism because this felt less Star Wars than the first one.
I will continue on because the writing style and pacing is addictive and I am interested in the story as how everyone’s secrets will blow up in their faces.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
October 9, 2024
I'm speechless. I read this book in one day and it is absolutely, jaw-droppingly incredible. A Monsoon Rising picks up right where The Hurricane Wars left off, with Talasyn and Alaric newly betrothed and the threat of the moonless dark looming over them. They also have to contend with political turmoil between Kesath and Nenavar, rebel attacks, and the growing attraction between them in the face of all the secrets they are keeping from each other.
Seriously, this was an INCREDIBLE sequel. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, the pacing was flawless, and I loved how Thea Guanzon weaved together all of the conflicts -- we get more insight into Alaric's relationship with his father, which was heartbreaking. Talasyn visits Kesath for her coronation and has to navigate a very treacherous stay, and it becomes all the more clear how precarious the alliance between the two empires are as both sides plot to overtake the other after the moonless dark.
Talasyn and Alaric are solidified as one of my all time favorite book couples. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is ever present, with a constant push and pull between them even as they fall deeper into each other and pine for each other. The way that Alaric felt and acted towards Talasyn melted my entire soul. He would literally do anything for her. We get to see so many moments of extreme vulnerability between them, including multiple one-bed scenes and reverse "who did this to you" scene that I still haven't recovered from. They are two sides of the same coin, understanding each other as no one else does and utterly craving love. They are so heartbreaking and anxiety-provoking and beautiful together. I am so deeply invested in a happy ending for them (that is a threat)!!
This book drastically amps up tension and the stakes are so much higher, making this book un-putdownable. Thea Guanzon's prose is impactful and lush; she never wastes a single word on a page. And that ending... I simply cannot WAIT for the third book. I 100% recommend this book--it will pull you out of any reading stump. Wow.
Thank you endlessly to Avon, Harper Voyager and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this wonderful ARC!
Seriously, this was an INCREDIBLE sequel. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, the pacing was flawless, and I loved how Thea Guanzon weaved together all of the conflicts -- we get more insight into Alaric's relationship with his father, which was heartbreaking. Talasyn visits Kesath for her coronation and has to navigate a very treacherous stay, and it becomes all the more clear how precarious the alliance between the two empires are as both sides plot to overtake the other after the moonless dark.
Talasyn and Alaric are solidified as one of my all time favorite book couples. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic is ever present, with a constant push and pull between them even as they fall deeper into each other and pine for each other. The way that Alaric felt and acted towards Talasyn melted my entire soul. He would literally do anything for her. We get to see so many moments of extreme vulnerability between them, including multiple one-bed scenes and reverse "who did this to you" scene that I still haven't recovered from. They are two sides of the same coin, understanding each other as no one else does and utterly craving love. They are so heartbreaking and anxiety-provoking and beautiful together. I am so deeply invested in a happy ending for them (that is a threat)!!
This book drastically amps up tension and the stakes are so much higher, making this book un-putdownable. Thea Guanzon's prose is impactful and lush; she never wastes a single word on a page. And that ending... I simply cannot WAIT for the third book. I 100% recommend this book--it will pull you out of any reading stump. Wow.
Thank you endlessly to Avon, Harper Voyager and NetGalley for providing me a copy of this wonderful ARC!
December 23, 2024
**𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘** 𝑨 𝑴𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒏 𝑹𝒊𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒚 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒂 𝑮𝒖𝒂𝒏𝒛𝒐𝒏 (𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒆 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒔 #2)
Release Date: December 10, 2024
5⭐️3🌶
The slow burn in this book is BURNING! The arranged marriage between Talasyn and Alaric are now married; however, it is in name only. Or is it? Their kingdoms have been on opposing sides of the war for too many years, but they've joined forces in order to fight the ever expanding power of the Shadow Gate.
Alaric's Father has only ever ruled through fear and violence. However, Alaric doesn't seem to want to rule that way. Talasyn sees a softer side to him, but she's planning on usurping his rule all the same.
Alaric has been told by his father that his marriage is only a way for Alaric to get close enough to steal and or stop Talasyn's magic. Once they stop her magic, there will be no one to oppose their rule with Shadow Magic.
The slow-burn in this book is delicious! While I struggled to get into this series in the first book, the second book is definately making up for it in spades!
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Enemies-to-lovers
🍁Arranged marriage
🍁Light vs. Dark Magic
🍁Slow Burn
🍁Grumpy-grumpy
🍁Star wars inspired
🍁Reylo inspired
TW:
✨Child abandonment (past)
✨Death of parent (past)
✨Death
✨Parental abuse
✨Violence
✨Battle scenes
Thank you to @netgalley for this ARC read!
Release Date: December 10, 2024
5⭐️3🌶
The slow burn in this book is BURNING! The arranged marriage between Talasyn and Alaric are now married; however, it is in name only. Or is it? Their kingdoms have been on opposing sides of the war for too many years, but they've joined forces in order to fight the ever expanding power of the Shadow Gate.
Alaric's Father has only ever ruled through fear and violence. However, Alaric doesn't seem to want to rule that way. Talasyn sees a softer side to him, but she's planning on usurping his rule all the same.
Alaric has been told by his father that his marriage is only a way for Alaric to get close enough to steal and or stop Talasyn's magic. Once they stop her magic, there will be no one to oppose their rule with Shadow Magic.
The slow-burn in this book is delicious! While I struggled to get into this series in the first book, the second book is definately making up for it in spades!
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Enemies-to-lovers
🍁Arranged marriage
🍁Light vs. Dark Magic
🍁Slow Burn
🍁Grumpy-grumpy
🍁Star wars inspired
🍁Reylo inspired
TW:
✨Child abandonment (past)
✨Death of parent (past)
✨Death
✨Parental abuse
✨Violence
✨Battle scenes
Thank you to @netgalley for this ARC read!
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