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Kingdom of Ash and Water #1
The Violet Mage
Ophelia Ivrea, the youngest princess of Maraleon, leads a life of little responsibility. Known throughout the nobility as having a mouth as sharp as her shooting, Ophelia spends her days shooting archery, riding her horse, and pushing the boundaries of her father’s patience.
However, Ophelia's quiet castle life is upended when an opponent at an archery tournament accuses her of using magic to cheat, and his claims are not refuted. Ophelia then learns of the secrets her father has hidden from her—not only was she was born with great magic, she is also the one foretold to save mankind from its forthcoming annihilation.
Feeling terrified and inadequate, and armed only with the magical abilities she all too recently learned she possessed, Ophelia decides to uncover the truth of the past and find a way to save the ones she loves from imminent destruction before it’s too late.
However, Ophelia's quiet castle life is upended when an opponent at an archery tournament accuses her of using magic to cheat, and his claims are not refuted. Ophelia then learns of the secrets her father has hidden from her—not only was she was born with great magic, she is also the one foretold to save mankind from its forthcoming annihilation.
Feeling terrified and inadequate, and armed only with the magical abilities she all too recently learned she possessed, Ophelia decides to uncover the truth of the past and find a way to save the ones she loves from imminent destruction before it’s too late.
494 pages, Hardcover
Published June 25, 2024
About the author
L.R. Powell
3 books50 followersL. R. Powell is a Texas-native who’s obsessed with fantasy and romance books and drinks entirely too much coffee. She lives with her family in the Houston area and works in education. When she isn’t reading, writing, or working, you can find her chasing around her two small humans or catching up on her favorite anime or Star Wars shows with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
June 25, 2024
This was an amazing read!
It had romance, finding yourself, great side characters,magic, fun banter and surprises!
I don't know if it's just me but I got a very fun but kickass fairytale vibe from this book. And I love the relationship between Ophelia and her father.
And then there is Elliot ♡. From the moment they met it was perfect!
Thanks to the author for providing me with this e-arc!
It had romance, finding yourself, great side characters,magic, fun banter and surprises!
I don't know if it's just me but I got a very fun but kickass fairytale vibe from this book. And I love the relationship between Ophelia and her father.
And then there is Elliot ♡. From the moment they met it was perfect!
Thanks to the author for providing me with this e-arc!
March 29, 2026
I devoured this audiobook . The narrator does a phenomenal job. She’s a powerhouse and her range is incredible.
The story at first felt like Brave with a twist but as it went on the one similarities to Brave was her having red hair and knows how to use a bow and arrow lol
Has a great unique story and I loved the side characters!
🌶️🌶️ .5
Excited to continue this series . This was an amazing debut.
The story at first felt like Brave with a twist but as it went on the one similarities to Brave was her having red hair and knows how to use a bow and arrow lol
Has a great unique story and I loved the side characters!
🌶️🌶️ .5
Excited to continue this series . This was an amazing debut.
June 28, 2024
Such a fun read!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy.
September 30, 2024
This was a fun fast moving book! I now can’t wait to read the second one.
April 17, 2026
Such a beautifully written story! The world building was there, The magic system was unique and very well executed. The romance between the MMC and FMC was beautiful I loved how they met and the dynamic between them. However I did wish that the FMC and the MMC has just a little more banter especially because I felt like the characters fell in love too quick and it kind of felt like it was missing just a little more. Aside from that The cliffhanger at the end definitely left me wanting more of Ophelia and her story. I’m excited to see what’s in store
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2026
Reading this one bc I received an arc for book 2.
Honestly was not impressed, the magic system and world is not well described at all and is really brushed over for most of the book. This is mostly just a romance book, but I didn't really root for them because any obstacles in the story were just immediately solved. The main problem in the book was resolved in 1 chapter with 1 convo. Easy read but hoping the next one is better!
Honestly was not impressed, the magic system and world is not well described at all and is really brushed over for most of the book. This is mostly just a romance book, but I didn't really root for them because any obstacles in the story were just immediately solved. The main problem in the book was resolved in 1 chapter with 1 convo. Easy read but hoping the next one is better!
November 10, 2024
The book was quite neat! It was done well and the age of the characters suited their conversations and mannerisms. I loved the magical system and how they worked as a triad. The ending however; GIRL! I am impatiently waiting for the next book in the series to see what happens.
I give massive kudos to people who are self-published authors.
I give massive kudos to people who are self-published authors.
October 29, 2024
***2.5 stars***
I REALLY hate writing negative reviews but I felt like I needed to give an honest opinion on this book because I was influenced to give it a try based on the seemingly very high ratings it currently has.
1. I try to give a lot of grace with a self published work and overlook typos and misspellings because heck, you’re already doing better than me by putting your ideas on paper and having the guts to make it public, but with that being said… the amount of those mistakes was distracting and took me out of the story completely each time I noticed them. The writer also switches tenses from sentence to sentence several times and that again, was distracting.
2. Quite a few times I couldn’t tell who was speaking and had to go back and reread entire interactions just to figure it out. The paragraphs were choppy and ended in the middle of dialogue and it could be really confusing.
3. The feelings of Ophelia gave me whiplash. The MMC was full of toxic masculinity in the first few chapters and then we were expecting to just believe the FMC did a complete 180 on her opinion of him as well as pretend his behavior never happened? And it wasn’t even as if he was giving off a “morally gray” vibe… he was just unlikeable. And the mechanics of their spicy scenes left me baffled.
4. The interactions between royalty and their “handmaidens” or “assistants” was hard to believe. Was George royalty? Why was he being called a Lord? Not to mention the way people interacted with the King. This is fantasy but I couldn’t even begin to understand it.
5. Lastly, I was left feeling like nothing really happened. The FMC went in to battle with no real knowledge or experience with her powers and then just “fixed” the situation with the touch of her hand and a conversation? It was anticlimactic to say the very least.
I know this is probably very harsh sounding but again, I was persuaded to give this a shot based on how fun all the current reviews said it was and I needed to give my two cents. I read A LOT of fantasy and this just wasn’t it for me!
I REALLY hate writing negative reviews but I felt like I needed to give an honest opinion on this book because I was influenced to give it a try based on the seemingly very high ratings it currently has.
1. I try to give a lot of grace with a self published work and overlook typos and misspellings because heck, you’re already doing better than me by putting your ideas on paper and having the guts to make it public, but with that being said… the amount of those mistakes was distracting and took me out of the story completely each time I noticed them. The writer also switches tenses from sentence to sentence several times and that again, was distracting.
2. Quite a few times I couldn’t tell who was speaking and had to go back and reread entire interactions just to figure it out. The paragraphs were choppy and ended in the middle of dialogue and it could be really confusing.
3. The feelings of Ophelia gave me whiplash. The MMC was full of toxic masculinity in the first few chapters and then we were expecting to just believe the FMC did a complete 180 on her opinion of him as well as pretend his behavior never happened? And it wasn’t even as if he was giving off a “morally gray” vibe… he was just unlikeable. And the mechanics of their spicy scenes left me baffled.
4. The interactions between royalty and their “handmaidens” or “assistants” was hard to believe. Was George royalty? Why was he being called a Lord? Not to mention the way people interacted with the King. This is fantasy but I couldn’t even begin to understand it.
5. Lastly, I was left feeling like nothing really happened. The FMC went in to battle with no real knowledge or experience with her powers and then just “fixed” the situation with the touch of her hand and a conversation? It was anticlimactic to say the very least.
I know this is probably very harsh sounding but again, I was persuaded to give this a shot based on how fun all the current reviews said it was and I needed to give my two cents. I read A LOT of fantasy and this just wasn’t it for me!
June 25, 2024
I'm an ARC reviewer
“The Violet Mage”, by L.R. Powell captivates the reader’s imagination from the very first page. The story centers around Ophelia, an ordinary princess struggling with haunting nightmares. However, when these dark scenes come to life, she discovers a secret her father concealed from her. This revelation propels Ophelia’s character through a riveting journey of self-discovery and destiny, where she must confront mysterious dark legends to save mankind. All along side her rival turned lover, Elliot.
Powell's storytelling paints a vivid world of danger and magic, where characters continually develop through the challenges they face. I absolutely adore Ophelia and Elliot’s relationship throughout the story. They hold each other together through tumultuous trials and life-threatening battles. I caught myself smiling and giggling when I read the dialogue between these two. Powell brings them to life and makes you fall in love with them as they fall in love with each other.
The overarching plot involving the Vilicus, a mysterious entity with profound implications for Ophelia's fate, intrigues the reader to the last page. Powell uncovers the secret just enough to keep you wanting more. I enjoyed the breadcrumbs. The payoff at the end does not disappoint!
A well-told tale, full of life, love, and laughter, that you don’t want to miss.
“The Violet Mage”, by L.R. Powell captivates the reader’s imagination from the very first page. The story centers around Ophelia, an ordinary princess struggling with haunting nightmares. However, when these dark scenes come to life, she discovers a secret her father concealed from her. This revelation propels Ophelia’s character through a riveting journey of self-discovery and destiny, where she must confront mysterious dark legends to save mankind. All along side her rival turned lover, Elliot.
Powell's storytelling paints a vivid world of danger and magic, where characters continually develop through the challenges they face. I absolutely adore Ophelia and Elliot’s relationship throughout the story. They hold each other together through tumultuous trials and life-threatening battles. I caught myself smiling and giggling when I read the dialogue between these two. Powell brings them to life and makes you fall in love with them as they fall in love with each other.
The overarching plot involving the Vilicus, a mysterious entity with profound implications for Ophelia's fate, intrigues the reader to the last page. Powell uncovers the secret just enough to keep you wanting more. I enjoyed the breadcrumbs. The payoff at the end does not disappoint!
A well-told tale, full of life, love, and laughter, that you don’t want to miss.
April 21, 2026
3🌶️
L. R. Powell! This Romantasy is so good. I would’ve never guessed it is a debut novel! I really enjoyed that it’s not super dark and full of masochistic men. The relationship that Ophelia and her dad have is so sweet. I love that she pushes the bounds and is a strong, Independent woman! Her growing love with Elliot is heart warming. The way he dotes on her is so sweet. FYI this does end on a cliff hanger! But don’t all fantasy/Romantasy books 🤦♀️😆.
Can we talk about the narrator for a second! Meg Price is phenomenal! The different voices she is able to do for the different characters is great. I had to double check that it was just 1 narrator.
L. R. Powell! This Romantasy is so good. I would’ve never guessed it is a debut novel! I really enjoyed that it’s not super dark and full of masochistic men. The relationship that Ophelia and her dad have is so sweet. I love that she pushes the bounds and is a strong, Independent woman! Her growing love with Elliot is heart warming. The way he dotes on her is so sweet. FYI this does end on a cliff hanger! But don’t all fantasy/Romantasy books 🤦♀️😆.
Can we talk about the narrator for a second! Meg Price is phenomenal! The different voices she is able to do for the different characters is great. I had to double check that it was just 1 narrator.
June 25, 2024
This story is full of heart and soul. The characters have depth and heart making the story that much richer. It was definitely a world I hated to leave when I got to the last chapter. And I am excited already for book two.
September 5, 2025
Been a hot minute since I read this book but it was amazing! Found it in a local book shop signed! Amazing for any Romantasy lovers. Was a bit slow in some parts but I couldn’t put it down at the end of the day. FMC was giving Merida vibes with some magic mixed in. Cant wait for the second book!
June 27, 2024
Fantasy isn’t my favorite, but omg I love this book! Ophelia is my spirit animal and she and Elliot are soooo presh. Can’t wait for the rest of this series!!!
October 10, 2026
Such a strong start and I was very interested in the archery aspect as well as the introduction to the love interest. However, everything just seemed to fall apart after that. I feel like it was going for dramatic but it just came across as not well thought out. I’m all for drama so that wouldn’t have been a bad thing but I just didn’t feel anything towards the characters or what was happening. It just lacked the depth and character development that I love in a fantasy series—with a little tweaking I think I could have loved it and I’m hoping the second book draws me in a little more than this one did.
That being said I read this one for a bookclub and the majority of the people who read it were obsessed so I’d say if you are a big romantasy person this may be right up your alley!
Thank you to the author for the ALC. all thoughts and opinions are my own.
That being said I read this one for a bookclub and the majority of the people who read it were obsessed so I’d say if you are a big romantasy person this may be right up your alley!
Thank you to the author for the ALC. all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 3, 2026
This book gave Brave vibes (one of my favorite Disney movies) and I loved it! I enjoyed this story and the audiobook narration was so good!
I loved how Ophelia was so sassy! She gives our mmc Elliot a run for his money when they first meet. I loved the how the relationship between them grows. They have great banter and romance! I also enjoyed the relationship between Ophelia and her family. The magic and nature adds so much meaning to the book!
This story had a great pace to let the world building, tension, and action grow. I really enjoyed this story! The cliffhanger OMG!! I can't wait to continue this story!
I loved how Ophelia was so sassy! She gives our mmc Elliot a run for his money when they first meet. I loved the how the relationship between them grows. They have great banter and romance! I also enjoyed the relationship between Ophelia and her family. The magic and nature adds so much meaning to the book!
This story had a great pace to let the world building, tension, and action grow. I really enjoyed this story! The cliffhanger OMG!! I can't wait to continue this story!
April 10, 2026
Such a good book! The author does a great job of sucking the reader into the world of Ophelia's life. I read this book over a year ago, but just did a reread in preparation for the sequel. Love the development of the world and the characters. Also, who doesn't love a kick butt chick who can shoot a bow!
May 31, 2025
If you love fantasy, adventure & romance, this is the book with you. The characters are loveable & grabbed me from the beginning. The magic & fantasy building was breathtaking. Seriously can’t wait for book 2 to learn more of Ophelia’s story.
November 23, 2024
It was an interesting story. I felt that there was too much written about how much Elliot and Ophilia loved each other. I felt that too much of the book was devoted to their sneaking around and being googley eyed for each other. I'm interested in the 2nd book due to the cliff hanger at the end. Maybe their love will become more relevant in further books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2026
This book got a little bit of a slow start as do most Romantasy series, as all the world building and all of that, but then it took off and I was hooked. I am in love with these characters. I think they were so well written and so much fun to be in heads of. I will be reading book 2 as soon as possible, and I will be yelling at the author for the cliffhanger I know is coming after having suffered through the cliffhanger of this book, but as angry at the cliffhanger as I will be, I know that I’m going to love that book as much as I did this one.
May 8, 2026
Love the adventure!
I LOVE Ophelia and Elliot! I loved the story and twists/turns! Lots of emotions and what an ending!!! Starting book 2 immediately!
I LOVE Ophelia and Elliot! I loved the story and twists/turns! Lots of emotions and what an ending!!! Starting book 2 immediately!
August 8, 2026
I really enjoyed listening to The Violet Mage.
Meg Price did an excellent job as narrator. She does voice changes well and made it easy to follow who is speaking and to whom they are talking.
The storyline itself is a good time. It’s kind of Merida from brave coded which I enjoyed. I felt like some of the problems the characters face get solved quickly, which is nicer IMO than them being too drug out. At the same time, the book did end on a cliffhanger so I can’t wait for book 2 on audio which should be out any day now! I felt like the spice was well balanced with plot.
I look forward to reading more in this series and by this author 🥰
Meg Price did an excellent job as narrator. She does voice changes well and made it easy to follow who is speaking and to whom they are talking.
The storyline itself is a good time. It’s kind of Merida from brave coded which I enjoyed. I felt like some of the problems the characters face get solved quickly, which is nicer IMO than them being too drug out. At the same time, the book did end on a cliffhanger so I can’t wait for book 2 on audio which should be out any day now! I felt like the spice was well balanced with plot.
I look forward to reading more in this series and by this author 🥰
May 31, 2025
L.R Powell's debut novel is an absolute triumph, delivering a "neat" and thoroughly enjoyable romantasy experience that will leave readers clamoring for the next installment. This book masterfully blends classic tropes with a fresh perspective, creating a captivating world brimming with magic, intrigue, and undeniable chemistry.
The characters are a true highlight, particularly the fiery, delightfully snarky, and reluctantly brave Princess Ophelia, the FMC. Her journey begins as she defies her father to enter an archery tournament, setting in motion a series of events that unravel a long-buried secret. The supporting cast, especially the lovable sidekicks/best friends, adds depth and humor, making the relationships feel genuine. While you might initially find yourself disliking the MMC, understanding the characters' youth helps contextualize their attitudes and actions, making their development and the unfolding plot all the more satisfying. The author skillfully portrays the nuances of young adults navigating powerful magic and complex relationships.
The magical system is incredibly well-crafted, especially the unique concept of a "triad" and how it functions within the story. Beyond the romance and magic, the book subtly weaves in a powerful message about humans needing to be better stewards of the land, showcasing the "beastly" turmoil caused by environmental abuse. This underlying theme adds a thoughtful layer to the adventure.
Powell excels at weaving a complex tale filled with mystery and suspense. The court intrigue, quests, adventures, and battles kept us on the edge of our seats, constantly wondering what secrets Ophelia and her father's head mage were hiding. This is also a deliciously spicy story, but the intimate moments never overshadow the intricate plot and beautiful writing.
Massive kudos to Lindsey Powell for this incredible self-published debut! Her talent for storytelling shines through every page, promising a bright future for this series. The ending is a true cliffhanger, leaving us impatiently waiting to see what happens next.
The characters are a true highlight, particularly the fiery, delightfully snarky, and reluctantly brave Princess Ophelia, the FMC. Her journey begins as she defies her father to enter an archery tournament, setting in motion a series of events that unravel a long-buried secret. The supporting cast, especially the lovable sidekicks/best friends, adds depth and humor, making the relationships feel genuine. While you might initially find yourself disliking the MMC, understanding the characters' youth helps contextualize their attitudes and actions, making their development and the unfolding plot all the more satisfying. The author skillfully portrays the nuances of young adults navigating powerful magic and complex relationships.
The magical system is incredibly well-crafted, especially the unique concept of a "triad" and how it functions within the story. Beyond the romance and magic, the book subtly weaves in a powerful message about humans needing to be better stewards of the land, showcasing the "beastly" turmoil caused by environmental abuse. This underlying theme adds a thoughtful layer to the adventure.
Powell excels at weaving a complex tale filled with mystery and suspense. The court intrigue, quests, adventures, and battles kept us on the edge of our seats, constantly wondering what secrets Ophelia and her father's head mage were hiding. This is also a deliciously spicy story, but the intimate moments never overshadow the intricate plot and beautiful writing.
Massive kudos to Lindsey Powell for this incredible self-published debut! Her talent for storytelling shines through every page, promising a bright future for this series. The ending is a true cliffhanger, leaving us impatiently waiting to see what happens next.
August 6, 2026
Thank you for the privilege of receiving an ALC of The Violet Mage. I really enjoyed the audiobook; the story was full of life, love, learning, and laughter.
Ophelia is a bold and spicy princess with archery skills, newfound magic, and even her father's approval. Her love interest, Elliot, genuinely and openly loves her with no hidden agenda. In my opinion, the spice was just right—it was present but did not take up multiple chapters.
Looking forward to the second book, I will be adding the hardcopies to my library soon.
Ophelia is a bold and spicy princess with archery skills, newfound magic, and even her father's approval. Her love interest, Elliot, genuinely and openly loves her with no hidden agenda. In my opinion, the spice was just right—it was present but did not take up multiple chapters.
Looking forward to the second book, I will be adding the hardcopies to my library soon.
June 24, 2024
The Violet Mage is an intriguing Fantasy journey with romance, action packed sequences, and magic interwoven throughout.
Princess Ophelia lived a fairly normal life until her nightmares of giant wolf and burning towns began. This would be the beginning of a prophecy that would change the course of her life and the world around her as she knew it!
I enjoyed this book so much, it was very well written, and the detail and vivid descriptions of the world were amazing. It is rivals to lovers but the rivals part is extremely short lived, and I would definitely describe it as insta-love after the rivalry. The romance felt very Bridgerton-esque to me in the best way! It was a longing and yearning type of romance, as well as dire situations that threw Ophelia and Elliot together. I enjoyed the magical component to it and Ophelia finding her magic and strength in a situation that seem highly unlikely for her to overcome.
Thank you so much to L.R. Powell for giving me the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
Princess Ophelia lived a fairly normal life until her nightmares of giant wolf and burning towns began. This would be the beginning of a prophecy that would change the course of her life and the world around her as she knew it!
I enjoyed this book so much, it was very well written, and the detail and vivid descriptions of the world were amazing. It is rivals to lovers but the rivals part is extremely short lived, and I would definitely describe it as insta-love after the rivalry. The romance felt very Bridgerton-esque to me in the best way! It was a longing and yearning type of romance, as well as dire situations that threw Ophelia and Elliot together. I enjoyed the magical component to it and Ophelia finding her magic and strength in a situation that seem highly unlikely for her to overcome.
Thank you so much to L.R. Powell for giving me the opportunity to read this as an ARC!
June 25, 2024
This was a such a fun read! I flew through it because I just had to know what was going to happen.
Our main characters are Ophelia (Think: Merida from that Disney movie- a strong female who can shoot arrows and defy societal norms) and Elliot (Think: Flynn Rider- handsome, charming, a tad immature, but capable when he needs to be). We also have faithful sidekicks (Think: Knight’s Tale), haunting nightmares, magical beings, a secret prophesy, and of course some spicy romance. I need the author to publish the next book ASAP because I am dying to know what happens next.
I’d recommend The Violet Mage for fans of the SJM universe or The War of Lost Hearts series. This is a great debut by a new author.
Our main characters are Ophelia (Think: Merida from that Disney movie- a strong female who can shoot arrows and defy societal norms) and Elliot (Think: Flynn Rider- handsome, charming, a tad immature, but capable when he needs to be). We also have faithful sidekicks (Think: Knight’s Tale), haunting nightmares, magical beings, a secret prophesy, and of course some spicy romance. I need the author to publish the next book ASAP because I am dying to know what happens next.
I’d recommend The Violet Mage for fans of the SJM universe or The War of Lost Hearts series. This is a great debut by a new author.
June 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this romantasy read! 💜🏹 Fiery FMC, rivals to lovers, discovered magic, plenty of spice, the most lovable sidekicks/best friends… what more could you ask for?! I don’t want to spoil anything, but I liked the underlying message of humans needing to be better stewards of the land and seeing the *beastly* turmoil (literally) that was caused when they abused the land. Ended on a cliffhanger - I am so excited for the rest of this series! I can’t wait to see where L.R. Powell takes these characters!
October 3, 2024
I was captivated by this book from the start so don’t let the length of time it took to finish it fool you. (Adulting is hard and unfair sometimes). This book has fantasy, romance, action, adventure, suspense and leaves you wanting to know what happens next. Ophelia reminds me of Merida only a bit more in touch with her feminine aspects. She presents a strong female protagonist while allowing herself to also explore the unknown of romance while being faced with a daunting and seemingly impossible destiny. I cannot wait to read the next installment and see where Lindsey leads us next!
June 25, 2024
Fantastic debut novel!
This romantasy really has it all, friendships, love, magic, learning who you are, adventure and so much more! I really enjoyed reading this book, meeting the characters, watching them grow and learning all about the world the author created. There were moments I laughed, smiled, felt worried and gasped out loud. I highly recommended reading this one and cannot wait to see where the series goes!
This romantasy really has it all, friendships, love, magic, learning who you are, adventure and so much more! I really enjoyed reading this book, meeting the characters, watching them grow and learning all about the world the author created. There were moments I laughed, smiled, felt worried and gasped out loud. I highly recommended reading this one and cannot wait to see where the series goes!
June 24, 2024
An exciting romantasy that gives a an equal balance of romance and ass-kicking that makes this an enticing and page turning book that has me kicking my feet, giggling out loud, and gasping at the ending!!! Fantastic debut novel!!!!
June 25, 2024
A stunning debut novel! This story is full of heart and soul. The characters have depth and heart making the story that much richer. It was definitely a world I hated to leave when I got to the last chapter. And I am excited already for book two.
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