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Crimson Haunts the Soul: Chronicles of Radelea
JADED
After escaping the suffocating heat of the Summer Court, Bria Sutherland does not believe she can feel such a thing as jaded again. Perhaps she would if her body was not covered in stark reminders of all she endured under Tohminic's command.
TORMENTED
She cannot forget the red staining her hands, and fights her inner demons every day. Her struggles become harder to overcome when she uncovers centuries of deception, and the betrayal of her home court forces her to sever all ties.
BETRAYED
Life in the Dusk Court is exciting, though they have struggles of their own. The leader of the Ill-fated hides a secret — Bria will stop at nothing to protect her found family, even if she must break their trust to reveal the truth.
POWERFUL
She scrambles to develop her new powers in time to defend Dusk Manor when attacks threaten to destroy her new home, and the cunning hand of an unknown enemy is revealed. If she wishes to survive, Bria must learn to trust in herself.
Follow Bria as she discovers the extent of her magic, uncovers a heartbreaking betrayal, and learns to fight the demons haunting her soul in the second instalment of Chronicles of Radelea.
After escaping the suffocating heat of the Summer Court, Bria Sutherland does not believe she can feel such a thing as jaded again. Perhaps she would if her body was not covered in stark reminders of all she endured under Tohminic's command.
TORMENTED
She cannot forget the red staining her hands, and fights her inner demons every day. Her struggles become harder to overcome when she uncovers centuries of deception, and the betrayal of her home court forces her to sever all ties.
BETRAYED
Life in the Dusk Court is exciting, though they have struggles of their own. The leader of the Ill-fated hides a secret — Bria will stop at nothing to protect her found family, even if she must break their trust to reveal the truth.
POWERFUL
She scrambles to develop her new powers in time to defend Dusk Manor when attacks threaten to destroy her new home, and the cunning hand of an unknown enemy is revealed. If she wishes to survive, Bria must learn to trust in herself.
Follow Bria as she discovers the extent of her magic, uncovers a heartbreaking betrayal, and learns to fight the demons haunting her soul in the second instalment of Chronicles of Radelea.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 8, 2024
1 person is currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Samara Saward
16 books51 followersSamara is a fantasy author from Melbourne, Australia, where she lives with her three kids, partner, and an English staffy named Boots. While she loves Melbourne, she grew up surrounded by a large family in north-west Tasmania, and misses the quiet life. When she's not writing, you'll find her reading, drinking coffee, camping, or playing Monopoly with her kids.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 3, 2025
5⭐️ You know a book is five stars when you have the flu and can barely stay awake, let alone see properly but you keep finding moments to read a little more.
Re-read, still 5⭐️!
Crimson haunts the Soul (CHTS) was another epic instalment of the Chronicles of Radelea which is a Fae Fantasy with all the familiar elements but written with such realism making me feel that I could really step into the world. Add to this a sneaky appearance of the human world, Melbourne to be specific and I felt myself travelling to Radelea.
Now, if you haven’t read book 1 (first question, what are you doing? It is so good, go grab it now!) … then please don’t read on, because I can’t really share anything about book 2 without revealing book 1 spoilers.
Our main character Bria, after spending many years being mistreated by her family and her court has no skills, no magic, no training and no allies, so when she is rescued from the Summer court she is surprised both to be alive and that her new allies at the dusk court care so much.
We witness her trauma after being tortured by the high lord of Summer and having to fight her way free in the blood of others. The realistic way which this trauma is written on the page, and the way it shapes her choices deepens our connection to Bria.
We also get to see how her new friends support and care for her, endearing them to us immediately. They help Bria to discover her magic, train her to protect herself and accept her into their court, one that they all have to give everything to protect.
CHTS is full of adventure in the form of magical and fighting training, seeking alliances from other courts, protecting weaker courts, uncovering those who wish to betray and fighting a war to save their court from being overtaken. It is action packed!
Perhaps my favourite part of CHTS is that Bria does not go from a weak, non-magical, untrained princess to a hero over night. She goes through trials, she has successes and failures, she uses knowledge she already had but undervalued, she makes bad choices, she accepts help and training. Bria also displays extreme remorse over being forced to kill, which I imagine most would feel and again making it feel real.
I also liked that the main romance of the story is super slow burn, there’s a connection, respect and a sense of protection but the relationship develops, despite the pair denying it for much of the story. It helps build that sense of reality further as they slowly connect within a less than ideal space.
Crimson Haunts the Soul is an amazing second installment of this series which I cannot wait to keep reading.
Re-read, still 5⭐️!
Crimson haunts the Soul (CHTS) was another epic instalment of the Chronicles of Radelea which is a Fae Fantasy with all the familiar elements but written with such realism making me feel that I could really step into the world. Add to this a sneaky appearance of the human world, Melbourne to be specific and I felt myself travelling to Radelea.
Now, if you haven’t read book 1 (first question, what are you doing? It is so good, go grab it now!) … then please don’t read on, because I can’t really share anything about book 2 without revealing book 1 spoilers.
Our main character Bria, after spending many years being mistreated by her family and her court has no skills, no magic, no training and no allies, so when she is rescued from the Summer court she is surprised both to be alive and that her new allies at the dusk court care so much.
We witness her trauma after being tortured by the high lord of Summer and having to fight her way free in the blood of others. The realistic way which this trauma is written on the page, and the way it shapes her choices deepens our connection to Bria.
We also get to see how her new friends support and care for her, endearing them to us immediately. They help Bria to discover her magic, train her to protect herself and accept her into their court, one that they all have to give everything to protect.
CHTS is full of adventure in the form of magical and fighting training, seeking alliances from other courts, protecting weaker courts, uncovering those who wish to betray and fighting a war to save their court from being overtaken. It is action packed!
Perhaps my favourite part of CHTS is that Bria does not go from a weak, non-magical, untrained princess to a hero over night. She goes through trials, she has successes and failures, she uses knowledge she already had but undervalued, she makes bad choices, she accepts help and training. Bria also displays extreme remorse over being forced to kill, which I imagine most would feel and again making it feel real.
I also liked that the main romance of the story is super slow burn, there’s a connection, respect and a sense of protection but the relationship develops, despite the pair denying it for much of the story. It helps build that sense of reality further as they slowly connect within a less than ideal space.
Crimson Haunts the Soul is an amazing second installment of this series which I cannot wait to keep reading.
June 15, 2024
This second installment of the series is a beautiful continuation of the story! Bria's strength, both mentally and her powers, as she learns of not only betrayal but also love, is a driving force in this book.
Vander... oh, Van. "What do you need to get past this right now? Do you want me to crawl with you? I have done it before, and I'll do it again. Do you want me to carry you? I'm happy to shoulder your burden." This man is fantastic even before he knows why he is driven to act like this beyond just being a good man. The crawling scene in the first book had me loving Van, and I was not wrong to think he'd get even better in this book.
The cliffhanger has me impatiently waiting for the next book, which can't come fast enough!
Vander... oh, Van. "What do you need to get past this right now? Do you want me to crawl with you? I have done it before, and I'll do it again. Do you want me to carry you? I'm happy to shoulder your burden." This man is fantastic even before he knows why he is driven to act like this beyond just being a good man. The crawling scene in the first book had me loving Van, and I was not wrong to think he'd get even better in this book.
The cliffhanger has me impatiently waiting for the next book, which can't come fast enough!
June 12, 2024
I love the story of a girl who gets her world turned upside down, goes through some stuff and fights to crawl out of the dark hole she ends up in.
What I love about this particular story is Samara Saward doesn’t write a FMC who becomes a killer baddie. She wrote a FMC who struggles the idea with hurting anyone, even the animals. At the end of book 1 we knew war was coming, and normally book 2 would have a training montage, where the FMC suddenly becomes a trained killer and has no remorse about cutting down her enemies. Oh no, not is Samaras book!
I adore the slow burn, the mysteries that get uncovered, the pure love, in this book.
BUT I hate that she left me on a cliffhanger and I would love book 3 ASAP
What I love about this particular story is Samara Saward doesn’t write a FMC who becomes a killer baddie. She wrote a FMC who struggles the idea with hurting anyone, even the animals. At the end of book 1 we knew war was coming, and normally book 2 would have a training montage, where the FMC suddenly becomes a trained killer and has no remorse about cutting down her enemies. Oh no, not is Samaras book!
I adore the slow burn, the mysteries that get uncovered, the pure love, in this book.
BUT I hate that she left me on a cliffhanger and I would love book 3 ASAP
September 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC REVIEW-I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Crimson Haunts the Soul is the second book in the Chronicles of Radelea series. In my opinion, it’s is even better than Jaded Wears the Crown! The turmoil that Bria is now having to push through is heartbreaking. She’s having to come to terms with not only the choices she’s made, but the choices her family has made for her. And just when she thinks she can’t bear any more, the Mother Star says “Hold my Beer!”
The world building in this series is so incredibly unique with our favorite fae fantasy genre. Crimson Haunts the Soul comes out in July. I can’t wait for you guys to read it, AND I can’t wait for the next book!
Thanks so much to Samara Saward for the opportunity to continue my journey into her world.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
ARC REVIEW-I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Crimson Haunts the Soul is the second book in the Chronicles of Radelea series. In my opinion, it’s is even better than Jaded Wears the Crown! The turmoil that Bria is now having to push through is heartbreaking. She’s having to come to terms with not only the choices she’s made, but the choices her family has made for her. And just when she thinks she can’t bear any more, the Mother Star says “Hold my Beer!”
The world building in this series is so incredibly unique with our favorite fae fantasy genre. Crimson Haunts the Soul comes out in July. I can’t wait for you guys to read it, AND I can’t wait for the next book!
Thanks so much to Samara Saward for the opportunity to continue my journey into her world.
July 7, 2024
Following on from the of book 1, we return to the Fae kingdom of Radelea as the consequences of our FMC’s (now Bria, pretend mate of the High Lord of Dusk, Vander – MMC) actions play out. War is on the horizon and the secrets the small island she now calls home has been keeping must be protected at all costs. As part of Vander’s inner circle, Bria must prove her worth and help them defend the land she has brought war down upon. This involved travelling to new lands, meeting new and dangerous people, and looking out for betrayal at every turn.
This part of the story is less focused on the kingdom-level politics (which were explored in detail in book 1) and more on the relationships and character development of Bria and her found family. Centralised on the island, its manor and village, we dig into the heart of the story rather than its warmongering (though there is plenty of that too). In fact, my favourite thing about this book is that we get to hear more from Vander – something that there was tantalisingly little of in book 1 (there is little I wouldn’t do for even a chapter of this book from his POV!) – so much so that I can finally call him the MMC of the series. He is everything we need in a morally grey protector, though he goes through his fair share of brooding in this book.
As in book 1, the spice isn’t widespread and is used wisely to support the plot, not overpower it. In my opinion, this is the best way to include smut in a book. I see far too many filled with unnecessary scenes that are just there to add pages and tickle the kink. Do I think we will see more spice in book 3? Absolutely, but I have no doubt it will also be used wisely as we move further in this slow-burn romance.
If you read my review of book 1, you will know that Bria made me want to strangle her with her selfish, idiotic actions that get her into a world of trouble. What we see in book 2 is her recovering from the trauma of that, coming to terms with what she is directly responsible for and beginning to let go of what she isn’t. As she begins training new powers and learning to defend herself, we see her mature into someone who understands that there is more to the world than her own wants and needs. By the end of this book, Bria is willing to sacrifice everything to save her new kingdom and found family, and I cannot be more relieved by her new attitude. She is by no means healed and carries many traumas with her, but her actions are now driven more by self-belief (sometimes over confidently) than insecurity and selfishness.
Lastly, be warned: CLIFFHANGER!! Samara, you are very mean. I love you, but you are mean.
Overall, I enjoyed this book much more than book 1 and I am very much looking forward to book 3 (the last in the main series). I would highly recommend this series to all lovers of romantasy, slow-burn, touch him/her and die vibes and multiple unknown enemies.
For transparency, I was delighted to receive an e-ARC copy of this book for review and look forward to supporting the rest of the series.
This part of the story is less focused on the kingdom-level politics (which were explored in detail in book 1) and more on the relationships and character development of Bria and her found family. Centralised on the island, its manor and village, we dig into the heart of the story rather than its warmongering (though there is plenty of that too). In fact, my favourite thing about this book is that we get to hear more from Vander – something that there was tantalisingly little of in book 1 (there is little I wouldn’t do for even a chapter of this book from his POV!) – so much so that I can finally call him the MMC of the series. He is everything we need in a morally grey protector, though he goes through his fair share of brooding in this book.
As in book 1, the spice isn’t widespread and is used wisely to support the plot, not overpower it. In my opinion, this is the best way to include smut in a book. I see far too many filled with unnecessary scenes that are just there to add pages and tickle the kink. Do I think we will see more spice in book 3? Absolutely, but I have no doubt it will also be used wisely as we move further in this slow-burn romance.
If you read my review of book 1, you will know that Bria made me want to strangle her with her selfish, idiotic actions that get her into a world of trouble. What we see in book 2 is her recovering from the trauma of that, coming to terms with what she is directly responsible for and beginning to let go of what she isn’t. As she begins training new powers and learning to defend herself, we see her mature into someone who understands that there is more to the world than her own wants and needs. By the end of this book, Bria is willing to sacrifice everything to save her new kingdom and found family, and I cannot be more relieved by her new attitude. She is by no means healed and carries many traumas with her, but her actions are now driven more by self-belief (sometimes over confidently) than insecurity and selfishness.
Lastly, be warned: CLIFFHANGER!! Samara, you are very mean. I love you, but you are mean.
Overall, I enjoyed this book much more than book 1 and I am very much looking forward to book 3 (the last in the main series). I would highly recommend this series to all lovers of romantasy, slow-burn, touch him/her and die vibes and multiple unknown enemies.
For transparency, I was delighted to receive an e-ARC copy of this book for review and look forward to supporting the rest of the series.
July 2, 2024
"Crimson still haunts my soul. Perhaps it always will."
Thanks so much to Samara Saward and Booksprout for allowing me to read and review this e-ARC of Crimson Haunts The Soul.
Bria is haunted by the traumas she has experienced at the hands of the Summer Court. A bastard child born of an illegitimate pairing between the High Lord of the Autumn Court and an unknown Spring fae female, she has no love from her family or her people. Now that she resides in the Dusk Court, she must work to rediscover her identity and heal her soul.
I am greatly enjoying this series. Bria has grown so much as an FMC - she has learned so much through the traumas she has faced, and I am so glad she is finding her voice. The magic system in this book is a breath of fresh air into a tale of fae courts.
My only complaint is that I really do think this book could have used another 50-100 pages to really flesh out her relationships with her friends and the MMC. That's right. I'm sad it was too short, and I don't say that often!
WHAT TO EXPECT
✅️ Slow burn romance
✅️ Fast-paced
✅️ Found family
✅️ Mental health representation 👏👏👏
SPICE
🌶🌶🌶
3/5
Infrequent, open door/explicit
Thanks so much to Samara Saward and Booksprout for allowing me to read and review this e-ARC of Crimson Haunts The Soul.
Bria is haunted by the traumas she has experienced at the hands of the Summer Court. A bastard child born of an illegitimate pairing between the High Lord of the Autumn Court and an unknown Spring fae female, she has no love from her family or her people. Now that she resides in the Dusk Court, she must work to rediscover her identity and heal her soul.
I am greatly enjoying this series. Bria has grown so much as an FMC - she has learned so much through the traumas she has faced, and I am so glad she is finding her voice. The magic system in this book is a breath of fresh air into a tale of fae courts.
My only complaint is that I really do think this book could have used another 50-100 pages to really flesh out her relationships with her friends and the MMC. That's right. I'm sad it was too short, and I don't say that often!
WHAT TO EXPECT
✅️ Slow burn romance
✅️ Fast-paced
✅️ Found family
✅️ Mental health representation 👏👏👏
SPICE
🌶🌶🌶
3/5
Infrequent, open door/explicit
September 15, 2024
An incredible next installment in the Chronicles of Radelea. This follows the aftermath of Brian’s torture from the Summer court and how she slowly recovers from it while training and falling in love with her new home in the Dusk Court. I couldn’t put this book down, it kept me captivated the entire time.
The mental health and trauma representation is real with this series and something I appreciate reading. Bria’s growth, both mentally and physically, were portrayed so well throughout the entirety of the novel. I loved reading her discovery of her strength and powers, with the help of her new found family. Don’t even get me started on my new favourite wind daddy, Vander. That slow burn was BURNING.
The action scenes were so well written I could visualize everything and I couldn’t get enough. I need to know what’s going on with Torminic, something smells fishy with him.
I’m so excited for the next book, Shadow Rules the Land. I’ll be anxiously awaiting to see what happens next, especially with the newly revealed realm.
TROPES:
🔺Found family
🔺Slow burn
🔺Mental Health representation
🔺Hidden powers
🔺Self discovery
🔺Secrets lands
The mental health and trauma representation is real with this series and something I appreciate reading. Bria’s growth, both mentally and physically, were portrayed so well throughout the entirety of the novel. I loved reading her discovery of her strength and powers, with the help of her new found family. Don’t even get me started on my new favourite wind daddy, Vander. That slow burn was BURNING.
The action scenes were so well written I could visualize everything and I couldn’t get enough. I need to know what’s going on with Torminic, something smells fishy with him.
I’m so excited for the next book, Shadow Rules the Land. I’ll be anxiously awaiting to see what happens next, especially with the newly revealed realm.
TROPES:
🔺Found family
🔺Slow burn
🔺Mental Health representation
🔺Hidden powers
🔺Self discovery
🔺Secrets lands
July 12, 2024
I absolutely love this series!!!
Radelea is a fantastic world filled with an assortment of characters that you can't help but love... And a few you will love to hate...
Bria is a rebellious fae who has never felt like she belongs to her family or her court because of how her father and stepmother treat her but she maintains the image that is expected of her.
In book 1 (Jaded Wears the Crown) Bria and her exploits had her discovering a mysterious island, causing the whole realm to attempt to lay claim only to discover it is already home to a whole previously undiscovered court. To secure his power, Bria's father announces that she is searching for a mate so he can secure an alliance regardless of his daughters' feelings or safety.
Crimson Haunts the Soul follows straight on from book 1 and a new, stronger Bria as she navigates her new life discovering who she really is and where she truly belongs. With the help of her new chosen family and friends Bria uncovers long buried secrets and dormant magic she never knew existed.
I was hooked right from the start finding myself loving and relating to the characters more with every chapter. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about the world that Samara has created and couldn't wait to get back there.
I NEED book 3!!!
If you enjoy the fantasy genre, the found family trope, like a bit of slow burn and are a fan of a self-discovery journey then I highly recommend Chronicles of Radelea.
As always check ALL of the TW's before you start reading this series as it does hit on some very heavy issues.
Radelea is a fantastic world filled with an assortment of characters that you can't help but love... And a few you will love to hate...
Bria is a rebellious fae who has never felt like she belongs to her family or her court because of how her father and stepmother treat her but she maintains the image that is expected of her.
In book 1 (Jaded Wears the Crown) Bria and her exploits had her discovering a mysterious island, causing the whole realm to attempt to lay claim only to discover it is already home to a whole previously undiscovered court. To secure his power, Bria's father announces that she is searching for a mate so he can secure an alliance regardless of his daughters' feelings or safety.
Crimson Haunts the Soul follows straight on from book 1 and a new, stronger Bria as she navigates her new life discovering who she really is and where she truly belongs. With the help of her new chosen family and friends Bria uncovers long buried secrets and dormant magic she never knew existed.
I was hooked right from the start finding myself loving and relating to the characters more with every chapter. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about the world that Samara has created and couldn't wait to get back there.
I NEED book 3!!!
If you enjoy the fantasy genre, the found family trope, like a bit of slow burn and are a fan of a self-discovery journey then I highly recommend Chronicles of Radelea.
As always check ALL of the TW's before you start reading this series as it does hit on some very heavy issues.
July 12, 2024
This the second book in the Chronicles of Radelea series and is a continuation from book one, so you will need to read the first one to be able to follow it. Note, that this one also ends on a cliffhanger.
Like with the first book, it took me a little to get into. I'm a lover of fantasy and therefore it surprised me that I didn't love it straight away. I did however enjoy the second book more than the first.
We continue with Bria's story and her haunted memories of her past trauma experienced by the Summer Court. Now she's in the Dusk Court where she can try and heal and rediscover who she really is.
I do enjoy some of the side characters in this one too. Each bring something more to the story.
It's a slow burn romance in a fast-paced story. And I absolutely loved the dedication at the beginning!
"To the inner demons - F*#k you!"
3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)
Tropes:
Fated mates
Found family
Slow burn
Magic
War
Touch him/her and die
Triggers:
Mental Health
Betrayal
Trauma
Killing
Like with the first book, it took me a little to get into. I'm a lover of fantasy and therefore it surprised me that I didn't love it straight away. I did however enjoy the second book more than the first.
We continue with Bria's story and her haunted memories of her past trauma experienced by the Summer Court. Now she's in the Dusk Court where she can try and heal and rediscover who she really is.
I do enjoy some of the side characters in this one too. Each bring something more to the story.
It's a slow burn romance in a fast-paced story. And I absolutely loved the dedication at the beginning!
"To the inner demons - F*#k you!"
3.5 stars (rounded up to 4)
Tropes:
Fated mates
Found family
Slow burn
Magic
War
Touch him/her and die
Triggers:
Mental Health
Betrayal
Trauma
Killing
September 3, 2024
The second installment of Chronicles of Radelea is a brilliant continuation of where the first left us. The strength that Bria gains, both mentally and physically, is absolutely captivating.
The sass and humor from Torin is humorous and I'm obsessed with how much Wyn cares for Bria (and vice-versus. The love building between both Bria and Vander is utterly swoon-worthy, and my highlight list is full.
"𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸? 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯. 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘐'𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯."
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘵𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥."
✨️ fated (true) mates
✨️ fae politics
✨️ mental health representation
✨️ 🌶
✨️ found family
✨️ powers revealed
I'll never tire of Samara's writing. Her attention to detail, world-building and wringing on your heart strings is phenomenal.
The cliff hanger (well, more like the PAUSE) at the end will leave you craving more. Luckily the next installment will be released this year!
The sass and humor from Torin is humorous and I'm obsessed with how much Wyn cares for Bria (and vice-versus. The love building between both Bria and Vander is utterly swoon-worthy, and my highlight list is full.
"𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘯𝘰𝘸? 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘸𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐'𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰 𝘪𝘵 𝘢𝘨𝘢𝘪𝘯. 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶? 𝘐'𝘮 𝘩𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘯."
"𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘵𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘥."
✨️ fated (true) mates
✨️ fae politics
✨️ mental health representation
✨️ 🌶
✨️ found family
✨️ powers revealed
I'll never tire of Samara's writing. Her attention to detail, world-building and wringing on your heart strings is phenomenal.
The cliff hanger (well, more like the PAUSE) at the end will leave you craving more. Luckily the next installment will be released this year!
June 25, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I love the concept of Crimson Haunts the Soul: Chronicles of Radelea Book 2 of Chronicles of Radelea by Samara Saward it was very well written and thought out. I love how in this book by Samara Saward we get to go back to the amazing world of Radelea and learn more about Bria. Bria has escaped from her torment from the Summer Court and is now in the Dusk Court where she is discovering the true meaning of family and also discovering the depth of her own powers. But when danger starts to come around and secrets starts to unfold will Bria be able to gain full control over her new found powers in time to protect her new home in the Dusk Court? Or will the unknown cunning enemy win? Will Bria gain the strength that she needs to start trusting in herself so that she can survive? I guess that you will have to read Crimson Haunts the Soul to find out what happens.
July 7, 2024
4.5 ⭐️⚔️✨
The dedication- “To the inner demons. Fuck you.” I LOVE THIS!!!!!
This book is absolutely amazing, I loved seeing Briars journey unfold. Many challenges were embarked on, connections were embraced and abilities were developed. The way in which Briar heals and finds herself is beautiful. The side characters are also awesome, her friends are caring and supportive and helped her immensely (I wish we got more!). I loved the slow burn between her and Vander, their journey is realistic, but spell-binding. He is perfect.
The world of Radelea is magical and full of action, it’s brutal, but still full of love. It took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster. I can’t wait to read book 3!!
(PS I love the realism and magic system in this world and THAT CLIFFHANGER SEND HELP😆)
- fated mates
- trauma
- fae politics
- found family
- mental health rep
- betrayal
- slow burn
- definitely for fans of ACOTAR!!!
- remorse
The dedication- “To the inner demons. Fuck you.” I LOVE THIS!!!!!
This book is absolutely amazing, I loved seeing Briars journey unfold. Many challenges were embarked on, connections were embraced and abilities were developed. The way in which Briar heals and finds herself is beautiful. The side characters are also awesome, her friends are caring and supportive and helped her immensely (I wish we got more!). I loved the slow burn between her and Vander, their journey is realistic, but spell-binding. He is perfect.
The world of Radelea is magical and full of action, it’s brutal, but still full of love. It took me on one hell of an emotional rollercoaster. I can’t wait to read book 3!!
(PS I love the realism and magic system in this world and THAT CLIFFHANGER SEND HELP😆)
- fated mates
- trauma
- fae politics
- found family
- mental health rep
- betrayal
- slow burn
- definitely for fans of ACOTAR!!!
- remorse
June 28, 2024
You definitely have to read these books in order, so make sure to read book 1 before embarking on this book.
I enjoyed this book more than the first book & look forward to seeing where these characters go in the next book.
Rated: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was glad that some of the secrets from the first book were revealed & that Vander & Briar finally embraced their connection. They faced many challenges in this book & yet they were able to come out of it stronger.
The side characters in this book are some of my favourite things about the book. They are all easily identifiable & help bring the story together.
Some of the themes/tropes in this book are:
*Magic
*Found Family
*Mates
*Unaliving
*War
*Betrayal
*Trauma
I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of this book & this is my honest opinion.
I enjoyed this book more than the first book & look forward to seeing where these characters go in the next book.
Rated: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was glad that some of the secrets from the first book were revealed & that Vander & Briar finally embraced their connection. They faced many challenges in this book & yet they were able to come out of it stronger.
The side characters in this book are some of my favourite things about the book. They are all easily identifiable & help bring the story together.
Some of the themes/tropes in this book are:
*Magic
*Found Family
*Mates
*Unaliving
*War
*Betrayal
*Trauma
I was fortunate to receive an advance copy of this book & this is my honest opinion.
July 6, 2024
The wait for this book was worth it!!
Bria once again, was amazing!! She has adapted well to life in Dusk (even if the clothing takes some getting used to).
The connection between Bria, Van, Wyn and Torin is real. They are a family. Torin's cheeky, flirty comments always make me smile.
Bria and Van, now that's end game right there!! Their connection is out of this world. Seering, tense, lustful, angry, hurt....all the emotions are right there, bubbly away at the surface.
Ren was a huge shock to me...I knew he was a D, but I never expected that!!
What was another shock to me was Tohminic...there is something going on there and I can't wait to find out what it is!
Looking forward to exploring the shadows in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Bria once again, was amazing!! She has adapted well to life in Dusk (even if the clothing takes some getting used to).
The connection between Bria, Van, Wyn and Torin is real. They are a family. Torin's cheeky, flirty comments always make me smile.
Bria and Van, now that's end game right there!! Their connection is out of this world. Seering, tense, lustful, angry, hurt....all the emotions are right there, bubbly away at the surface.
Ren was a huge shock to me...I knew he was a D, but I never expected that!!
What was another shock to me was Tohminic...there is something going on there and I can't wait to find out what it is!
Looking forward to exploring the shadows in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2024
4.5 star. 2/5 spice.
A fantastic second to the series.
Congratulations Samara!!
Book two takes you through Bria after summer courts cruel treatment. Her struggle and journey to healing as well as discovering her true self and uncovering who her mother really is.
During her journey she has dusk court to call home while also dealing with her feelings towards the high lord and discovering that there is a traitor who is one of them.
This book gets you in the feels, it captivates, dragging you into the world of Radelea and the war that is unfolding!!!
I can not wait to see what comes next with the ending of this one!!!
A fantastic second to the series.
Congratulations Samara!!
Book two takes you through Bria after summer courts cruel treatment. Her struggle and journey to healing as well as discovering her true self and uncovering who her mother really is.
During her journey she has dusk court to call home while also dealing with her feelings towards the high lord and discovering that there is a traitor who is one of them.
This book gets you in the feels, it captivates, dragging you into the world of Radelea and the war that is unfolding!!!
I can not wait to see what comes next with the ending of this one!!!
September 19, 2024
🌶️🌶️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Book 2 DID NOT disappoint! This book was a wild ride that I was on the edge of my seat for and could not put down! What she went through and the betrayal should have destroyed her but to watch how she over came and built off of it and how through it all she remained true to herself was *chefs kiss* I love watching the relationship between Bria and Vander building and watching them break the barriers to their bond and balance each other out through such a trying time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2024
This is part 2 of the chronicles of Radelea. It is as epic as the first and left me excited for the next installment. New characters and new enemies are in store for Bria. And the bubbling love interest... will they or won't they.... I can't describe how much I am enjoying this series!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this fantasy book. Where romance wasn't a part of book one you can see in being introduced in this book. Its very slow burn and I like the was its unfolding. This book had the same great fantasy story with some good action. I'm very much enjoying this series.
July 16, 2024
Depression, torture, death, unknown heritage, disownment, trauma, murder, PTSD. What a way to keep this series going.
Bria is still not sure who her mother is, so has no idea what her special powers could be after all these years being told she has none and some are starting to come out and known.
This was still well written with more world building to explain about all of the different courts and how they work together.
Bria is still not sure who her mother is, so has no idea what her special powers could be after all these years being told she has none and some are starting to come out and known.
This was still well written with more world building to explain about all of the different courts and how they work together.
July 21, 2024
Wow what a good continuation of the story. This was amazing. The whole thing felt like a whirlwind and my mind is kind of blown. I hope there is more to read about this world, because dang, it’s pretty impressive and i love the characters.
July 21, 2024
Love love love!!!
This book was amazing from start to finish I couldn't put it down. If you love fated mates, family found, adventure and fantasy this book is for you.
This book was amazing from start to finish I couldn't put it down. If you love fated mates, family found, adventure and fantasy this book is for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 4, 2025
…wow
That was awful, not gonna lie.
I had higher expectations for this book to be honest
That was awful, not gonna lie.
I had higher expectations for this book to be honest
August 19, 2025
It’s been a while but I have been looking forward to diving back into Radelea and reading more of Bria’s story. Book 1, Jaded Wears The Crown, was excellent and left me excited to discover more.
Without giving away too much of book 1, we find Bria having escaped torment at the hands of the Summer Court High Lord and seeking refuge at the newly discovered Dusk Court. Here, she finds solace in her new friends and High Lord Vander and is given space to heal, train to defend herself, and work with her newly emerging powers that have been suppressed her whole life.
My favourite part of this book is the mental health rep. Bria is absolutely broken and suffering severely from PTSD. I love how she is not just miraculously healed with a bit of R&R and ready to take on the world. She suffers slowly. She has good days and bad days. Things trigger her. But she slowly grows stronger, and learns to accept her demons and live with them.
This book has got a little bit of everything. There are secrets and betrayals, hidden identities, politics and drama, love and friendship. There’s also a nice little cameo of a city I know very well … no spoilers of course!
I know I call it a romantasy above, and it is, but it also isn’t. Yes there is a good romance storyline but it’s not the focus. The approaching conflict between the courts and Bria’s recovery takes the main stage.
Of course the book ends on a cliffhanger and I’ve got book 3, Shadow Rules The Land, lined up and ready to go. After a few other commitments I’ll be jumping back in and I can’t wait!
Without giving away too much of book 1, we find Bria having escaped torment at the hands of the Summer Court High Lord and seeking refuge at the newly discovered Dusk Court. Here, she finds solace in her new friends and High Lord Vander and is given space to heal, train to defend herself, and work with her newly emerging powers that have been suppressed her whole life.
My favourite part of this book is the mental health rep. Bria is absolutely broken and suffering severely from PTSD. I love how she is not just miraculously healed with a bit of R&R and ready to take on the world. She suffers slowly. She has good days and bad days. Things trigger her. But she slowly grows stronger, and learns to accept her demons and live with them.
This book has got a little bit of everything. There are secrets and betrayals, hidden identities, politics and drama, love and friendship. There’s also a nice little cameo of a city I know very well … no spoilers of course!
I know I call it a romantasy above, and it is, but it also isn’t. Yes there is a good romance storyline but it’s not the focus. The approaching conflict between the courts and Bria’s recovery takes the main stage.
Of course the book ends on a cliffhanger and I’ve got book 3, Shadow Rules The Land, lined up and ready to go. After a few other commitments I’ll be jumping back in and I can’t wait!
September 22, 2024
Bria’s journey continues in an instalment that is a rollercoaster ride full of emotional ups and downs. Bria and Vandor’s relationship grows as does her skillset. This story is excellent from the beginning to the end.
The only downside is that I need to wait until book 3 to find out what happens next. I MUST KNOW NOW!
This is an excellent 5 star read.
The only downside is that I need to wait until book 3 to find out what happens next. I MUST KNOW NOW!
This is an excellent 5 star read.
July 18, 2025
This book was just as amazing as the first one! Seeing Bria learn how to use her powers was really enjoyable, and I loved how she finally gets to taste the freedom that has eluded her for so long. All in all, this book was a great read, and I highly recommend reading this series!
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