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The Girl with the Fierce Eyes
Red Queen meets Divergent in this fast-paced YA fantasy romance debut—packed with love triangles, betrayal, and a heroine who must risk everything to survive.
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
Jantsia’s secret will kill her…
In the Empire of Shariza, eye colour determines wealth, status and even access to magical powers. Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four oculary castes. Destined for servitude.
But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth. Jantsia is a dual-oc, a forbidden mix of two castes, condemned to death if discovered. To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
Or will the truth save them all?
Yet whispers of rebellion are growing, and cracks are forming in the very foundations of their society. Could it be that the fiery untapped power burning inside Jantsia is a gift rather than a curse?
But who to trust when different means death?
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes has some potential content warnings, including sexual grooming (past), sibling/infant death (past), racism and discrimination, threatened torture and death, and characters in peril. Readers who may be sensitive to these elements, please take note.
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
Jantsia’s secret will kill her…
In the Empire of Shariza, eye colour determines wealth, status and even access to magical powers. Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four oculary castes. Destined for servitude.
But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth. Jantsia is a dual-oc, a forbidden mix of two castes, condemned to death if discovered. To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
Or will the truth save them all?
Yet whispers of rebellion are growing, and cracks are forming in the very foundations of their society. Could it be that the fiery untapped power burning inside Jantsia is a gift rather than a curse?
But who to trust when different means death?
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes has some potential content warnings, including sexual grooming (past), sibling/infant death (past), racism and discrimination, threatened torture and death, and characters in peril. Readers who may be sensitive to these elements, please take note.
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2025
17 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Sophia Vahdati
1 book21 followersSophia Vahdati writes stories for those still searching for the magic hidden inside them. She holds a First-Class degree in Modern and Medieval Languages from the University of Cambridge and a Master’s in International Journalism from Cardiff University.
After travelling the world to escape the sleepy Somerset town where she grew up, she somehow ended up right back where she started—only to realise it had been home all along. When she’s not writing, she’s wrangling one of her mischievous cats, pestering her husband to help her solve plot holes, or crying at Disney movies.
Her debut novel, The Girl with the Fierce Eyes, is out in July 2025.
Follow her for book updates, behind-the-scenes content, and a healthy dose of cat chaos:
https://linktr.ee/sophiavahdati
After travelling the world to escape the sleepy Somerset town where she grew up, she somehow ended up right back where she started—only to realise it had been home all along. When she’s not writing, she’s wrangling one of her mischievous cats, pestering her husband to help her solve plot holes, or crying at Disney movies.
Her debut novel, The Girl with the Fierce Eyes, is out in July 2025.
Follow her for book updates, behind-the-scenes content, and a healthy dose of cat chaos:
https://linktr.ee/sophiavahdati
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 4, 2025
👁️ A caste system built on eye colour. A heroine with a deadly secret. A rebellion brewing in the shadows…
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes kicks off a bold new dystopian fantasy series. In the Empire of Shariza, your eye colour decides everything—your status, your power, even your survival. Jantsia, born with a forbidden mix of castes, is living a lie just to stay alive. But when whispers of rebellion begin to spread and her hidden powers start to surface, it’s clear her truth might change everything… or destroy it all. 💥
✨ What I loved:
— The premise is so unique and visual—an oculary caste system is such a cool concept.
— Jantsia is a compelling lead with grit and emotional depth.
— The character dynamics (and potential love triangle 👀) had me intrigued.
🤔 What didn’t quite work for me:
— The world-building was a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot of info thrown at you early on, and I often felt like I was reading book two in a trilogy.
— I would’ve loved a map or glossary to help keep the different regions and histories straight.
— The magic system had potential but needed a bit more clarity and depth.
Still, the ending packed a punch, and I’m really curious to see how the characters—and especially Jantsia—evolve in the sequel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Unique concept, fierce heroine, and a solid start to a new dystopian series. Not without its flaws, but fans of YA fantasy with rebellion, romance, and high stakes will likely enjoy the ride! 📚🔥
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes kicks off a bold new dystopian fantasy series. In the Empire of Shariza, your eye colour decides everything—your status, your power, even your survival. Jantsia, born with a forbidden mix of castes, is living a lie just to stay alive. But when whispers of rebellion begin to spread and her hidden powers start to surface, it’s clear her truth might change everything… or destroy it all. 💥
✨ What I loved:
— The premise is so unique and visual—an oculary caste system is such a cool concept.
— Jantsia is a compelling lead with grit and emotional depth.
— The character dynamics (and potential love triangle 👀) had me intrigued.
🤔 What didn’t quite work for me:
— The world-building was a bit overwhelming. There’s a lot of info thrown at you early on, and I often felt like I was reading book two in a trilogy.
— I would’ve loved a map or glossary to help keep the different regions and histories straight.
— The magic system had potential but needed a bit more clarity and depth.
Still, the ending packed a punch, and I’m really curious to see how the characters—and especially Jantsia—evolve in the sequel.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Unique concept, fierce heroine, and a solid start to a new dystopian series. Not without its flaws, but fans of YA fantasy with rebellion, romance, and high stakes will likely enjoy the ride! 📚🔥
July 14, 2025
4 / 5 Stars
This was a fun YA fantasy/dystopian novel! Let’s start with a lay person plot recap because there’s a lot going on and this is what I was able to figure out. In the Shariza Empire, your eye color determines your place in society and your magical powers. The Azures (blue eyes) are lowest among the caste system and they are the water wielders. Next are the Veridian (green eyes) who are root renders who can heal and feed. Above them are the Sepias (brown eyes) who are earth breakers (warriors and such). The highest class are the Obsidians (black eyes) who can manipulate sound. Society depends on this segregation so someone like Jantsia should not exist. She is a dual-oc meaning her parents come from two different classes and dual-oc children are born with a blood illness that reflects the “wrongness” of their existence. She was not supposed to survive this illness for a few years, let alone for 17 years. But here Jantsia is. She will never have magical powers but she will continue to work as a servant for her Obsidian mistress as long as no one finds out her secret. Not even her best friend (who she is in love with), Kain. But as rebellion stirs, Jantsia and the other characters have to navigate their place in this magical world.
You will probably like this book if you like:
👀 YA dystopian fantasy
💧 A magical systems based on eye color
👀 Love triangles
💧 Forbidden love
👀 Rebels
💧 Secret identities
👀 Multiple povs
I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and how those storylines intersected. We have Jantsia’s POV. We also have Kain’s brother’s, Daezen’s, POV – he has been taking care of Kain and his mother since his father passed and is starting to work with the rebels so that he can get enough money for his family. And we have Soba’s POV – she is an Obsidian Inspector who surveys the city for rebels. She just wants to impress the Chief Inspector because she thinks she owes him her life. The story lines were woven really well together and all three of these characters were well developed so it was really interesting to be reading any of their chapters. All of the characters are young (ranging from 17 - 19 years old), so they were definitely young and naive at times, but they had also dealt with enough life stuff to feel like they were more emotionally mature than not, which I appreciated.
The magic system was very cool but I felt like we were still learning new information about it pretty late in the book which made it kind of hard to fully grasp what these characters could and could not do. And boy, oh, boy would I have benefited from a map. I understand the caste system but even within it, each region has nuances and those were hard to keep straight. I could barely tell you where any other region was in relation to the city we were in, let alone how that region was viewed. This story dealt with eye colorism and racism and the intersection of those and I felt like it would have been more powerful if I could fully understand where everything was.
The book ends on a fun twist and cliffhanger and I am definitely looking forward to the next one.
Oh, and I didn’t see drug use and drug abuse in the content warning so I am adding it in case that helps anyone in their reading.
Thank you One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 17, 2025
________________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: This is a YA romantic fantasy novel and there is a caste system based on eye color and blue eyed folks are at the bottom? MY BLUE EYED BABES, WE RIDE AT DAWN.
This was a fun YA fantasy/dystopian novel! Let’s start with a lay person plot recap because there’s a lot going on and this is what I was able to figure out. In the Shariza Empire, your eye color determines your place in society and your magical powers. The Azures (blue eyes) are lowest among the caste system and they are the water wielders. Next are the Veridian (green eyes) who are root renders who can heal and feed. Above them are the Sepias (brown eyes) who are earth breakers (warriors and such). The highest class are the Obsidians (black eyes) who can manipulate sound. Society depends on this segregation so someone like Jantsia should not exist. She is a dual-oc meaning her parents come from two different classes and dual-oc children are born with a blood illness that reflects the “wrongness” of their existence. She was not supposed to survive this illness for a few years, let alone for 17 years. But here Jantsia is. She will never have magical powers but she will continue to work as a servant for her Obsidian mistress as long as no one finds out her secret. Not even her best friend (who she is in love with), Kain. But as rebellion stirs, Jantsia and the other characters have to navigate their place in this magical world.
You will probably like this book if you like:
👀 YA dystopian fantasy
💧 A magical systems based on eye color
👀 Love triangles
💧 Forbidden love
👀 Rebels
💧 Secret identities
👀 Multiple povs
I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and how those storylines intersected. We have Jantsia’s POV. We also have Kain’s brother’s, Daezen’s, POV – he has been taking care of Kain and his mother since his father passed and is starting to work with the rebels so that he can get enough money for his family. And we have Soba’s POV – she is an Obsidian Inspector who surveys the city for rebels. She just wants to impress the Chief Inspector because she thinks she owes him her life. The story lines were woven really well together and all three of these characters were well developed so it was really interesting to be reading any of their chapters. All of the characters are young (ranging from 17 - 19 years old), so they were definitely young and naive at times, but they had also dealt with enough life stuff to feel like they were more emotionally mature than not, which I appreciated.
The magic system was very cool but I felt like we were still learning new information about it pretty late in the book which made it kind of hard to fully grasp what these characters could and could not do. And boy, oh, boy would I have benefited from a map. I understand the caste system but even within it, each region has nuances and those were hard to keep straight. I could barely tell you where any other region was in relation to the city we were in, let alone how that region was viewed. This story dealt with eye colorism and racism and the intersection of those and I felt like it would have been more powerful if I could fully understand where everything was.
The book ends on a fun twist and cliffhanger and I am definitely looking forward to the next one.
Oh, and I didn’t see drug use and drug abuse in the content warning so I am adding it in case that helps anyone in their reading.
Thank you One More Chapter and NetGalley for providing the eARC! All opinions are my own.
Publication Date: July 17, 2025
________________________
Pre-Read Thoughts: This is a YA romantic fantasy novel and there is a caste system based on eye color and blue eyed folks are at the bottom? MY BLUE EYED BABES, WE RIDE AT DAWN.
May 31, 2025
I’m so glad I decided to request this on Netgalley and so glad One More Chapter accepted!
A YA Dystopian fantasy that really put into perspective real life problems. Even as a white man, I was reading this thinking “Blimey, this is so relevant in today’s world”
Jantsia is an amazing character who struggles with not fitting into her social circles due to her heritage and appearance, she also has to lie about her identity at home all while suffering with a “blood sickness”. Following her story of growth and acceptance after scenes where she’s gone to such efforts to fit in with the Azures around her was so good.
Daezen is Jantsia’s best friend Kains’s older brother. Broody, a son who’s stepped up as head of the household after his father’s death. His character arc was also really good to read and I can’t wait to see where his story goes.
Soba’s our other point of view throughout the story, she’s the “bad guy”, strong, athletic, rugged. An inspector whose job it is to find and infiltrate the rebels plans. Her story was heartbreaking. You really felt for her and what she’d been through, helping you understand why and how she’s ended up where she is.
The only trigger warning I noticed that was missing was that grooming has a part to play in this story. It was handled and written well a long with the other plots of discrimination and stereotypes.
Sophia Vahdati has created a world that reflects our current world and its issues with discrimination while putting a dystopian fantasy twist of her own on it. The magic and caste system was fantastic. The idea that your place in the hierarchy is dependant on your eye colour and corresponding power was so well done.
Eager to carry on this story in the next instalment.
A YA Dystopian fantasy that really put into perspective real life problems. Even as a white man, I was reading this thinking “Blimey, this is so relevant in today’s world”
Jantsia is an amazing character who struggles with not fitting into her social circles due to her heritage and appearance, she also has to lie about her identity at home all while suffering with a “blood sickness”. Following her story of growth and acceptance after scenes where she’s gone to such efforts to fit in with the Azures around her was so good.
Daezen is Jantsia’s best friend Kains’s older brother. Broody, a son who’s stepped up as head of the household after his father’s death. His character arc was also really good to read and I can’t wait to see where his story goes.
Soba’s our other point of view throughout the story, she’s the “bad guy”, strong, athletic, rugged. An inspector whose job it is to find and infiltrate the rebels plans. Her story was heartbreaking. You really felt for her and what she’d been through, helping you understand why and how she’s ended up where she is.
The only trigger warning I noticed that was missing was that grooming has a part to play in this story. It was handled and written well a long with the other plots of discrimination and stereotypes.
Sophia Vahdati has created a world that reflects our current world and its issues with discrimination while putting a dystopian fantasy twist of her own on it. The magic and caste system was fantastic. The idea that your place in the hierarchy is dependant on your eye colour and corresponding power was so well done.
Eager to carry on this story in the next instalment.
May 18, 2025
"But secrets were open wounds. The longer they were left to fester, the more likely they'd become infected."
Author: Sophia Vahdati
Page Count: 384 Pages
Release date: July 17, 2025
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is the first installment in a fast-paced YA dystopian fantasy romance series by debut author Sophia Vahdati. I was blown away by Sophia Vahdati’s world, full of magic, love triangles, political intrigue, betrayal, and a heroine who must decide whether to reveal her deadliest secret to save them all.
I loved the premise of the novel, which is about a Divergent-esque world in which eye colour determines status, wealth, and power. In the Empire of Shariza, the four oculary powers (Obsidian, Sepia, Verdidian, and Azure) are separated in a castes system that condemns those with light eyes to lives of poverty and servitude. Intermixing is forbidden on pain of death.
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
In a world where difference means death, Jantsia must hide her dual-heritage, even from the person she loves the most. But when a rebellion challenges the rot at the core of the Empire, Janstia must decide whether to risk revealing the secret that has kept her alive. What if her difference isn’t dangerous? What if it is the secret to saving them all? But who to trust when difference means death?
A Love That Kills
I devoured this novel, which has the fast pace to keep you awake and night and the depth and complexity to keep you thinking about the plot long after you have finished the book.
I appreciated Vahdati’s use of eye colour as a vehicle to explore the way human societies create structures of power and discrimination, and that she subverts expectations by placing blue eyes at the bottom of the social ladder. The dual-heritage protagonist struggles with not fitting into either of her parent’s worlds, and must learn to embrace rather than fear her difference. In this way, Jantsia’s story explores the risks posed to and by individuals who do not neatly fit into the categories human beings love to create.
I also loved the complexity of the novel, which follows three characters - two Azure and one Obsidian - as each are forced to question their assumptions about the world and their place in it. When the structures that govern their lives are exposed, what choices will they make? Is love powerful enough to overcome structures of hate?
I can’t wait for Book 2, which promises deadly trials and difficult choices for each of the characters!
You’ll love this novel if you love:
-Divergent-esque fantasy
-YA Dystopian
-Multiple POV
-Romance (F/M and F/F) & Love Triangles
-Magic & Deadly Trials
-Political Intrigue & Betrayal
-Found Family
-Self-Discovery
CW: sexual grooming (past), sibling/infant death (past), racism and discrimination, threatened torture & death, characters in peril.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 & NetGalley 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲.
Author: Sophia Vahdati
Page Count: 384 Pages
Release date: July 17, 2025
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is the first installment in a fast-paced YA dystopian fantasy romance series by debut author Sophia Vahdati. I was blown away by Sophia Vahdati’s world, full of magic, love triangles, political intrigue, betrayal, and a heroine who must decide whether to reveal her deadliest secret to save them all.
I loved the premise of the novel, which is about a Divergent-esque world in which eye colour determines status, wealth, and power. In the Empire of Shariza, the four oculary powers (Obsidian, Sepia, Verdidian, and Azure) are separated in a castes system that condemns those with light eyes to lives of poverty and servitude. Intermixing is forbidden on pain of death.
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
In a world where difference means death, Jantsia must hide her dual-heritage, even from the person she loves the most. But when a rebellion challenges the rot at the core of the Empire, Janstia must decide whether to risk revealing the secret that has kept her alive. What if her difference isn’t dangerous? What if it is the secret to saving them all? But who to trust when difference means death?
A Love That Kills
I devoured this novel, which has the fast pace to keep you awake and night and the depth and complexity to keep you thinking about the plot long after you have finished the book.
I appreciated Vahdati’s use of eye colour as a vehicle to explore the way human societies create structures of power and discrimination, and that she subverts expectations by placing blue eyes at the bottom of the social ladder. The dual-heritage protagonist struggles with not fitting into either of her parent’s worlds, and must learn to embrace rather than fear her difference. In this way, Jantsia’s story explores the risks posed to and by individuals who do not neatly fit into the categories human beings love to create.
I also loved the complexity of the novel, which follows three characters - two Azure and one Obsidian - as each are forced to question their assumptions about the world and their place in it. When the structures that govern their lives are exposed, what choices will they make? Is love powerful enough to overcome structures of hate?
I can’t wait for Book 2, which promises deadly trials and difficult choices for each of the characters!
You’ll love this novel if you love:
-Divergent-esque fantasy
-YA Dystopian
-Multiple POV
-Romance (F/M and F/F) & Love Triangles
-Magic & Deadly Trials
-Political Intrigue & Betrayal
-Found Family
-Self-Discovery
CW: sexual grooming (past), sibling/infant death (past), racism and discrimination, threatened torture & death, characters in peril.
𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐫 & NetGalley 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲.
September 9, 2025
Quickest YA read of the year for me so far: The Girl with the Fierce Eyes by was brilliant 🤩 I loved it!
I listened to the audiobook and read the paperback in tandem and it’s a refreshing read! Set in a dystopian fantasy world, this debut book has an unusual set up that mirrors our own world but there the similarities end because the prejudice is based around eye colour, not skin colour. The magic system, using occulary powers, is very inventive & it explores themes of prejudice & societal unrest set in a futuristic city, in the cold north of a complex world.
I loved the narration – all three narrators brought interesting characterisation to the words: Roshaan Riyahi-Bono brings a wonderful vulnerability to the character of Jantsia and illegal ‘dual-occ’ who is living a lie; Precious Mustapha is assured throughout as Soba - the undercover detective; and Freddie Carter exudes attitude & charisma with Daezen, a talented young man faced with a dismal future unless he can push for change. It was an absolutely blooming good read/listen that I will be recommending to everyone! Can’t wait for the next one! Yes it is a series.
I listened to the audiobook and read the paperback in tandem and it’s a refreshing read! Set in a dystopian fantasy world, this debut book has an unusual set up that mirrors our own world but there the similarities end because the prejudice is based around eye colour, not skin colour. The magic system, using occulary powers, is very inventive & it explores themes of prejudice & societal unrest set in a futuristic city, in the cold north of a complex world.
I loved the narration – all three narrators brought interesting characterisation to the words: Roshaan Riyahi-Bono brings a wonderful vulnerability to the character of Jantsia and illegal ‘dual-occ’ who is living a lie; Precious Mustapha is assured throughout as Soba - the undercover detective; and Freddie Carter exudes attitude & charisma with Daezen, a talented young man faced with a dismal future unless he can push for change. It was an absolutely blooming good read/listen that I will be recommending to everyone! Can’t wait for the next one! Yes it is a series.
July 27, 2025
The Girl With Fierce Eyes by Sophia Vahdati is a dystopian novel where we follow the point of view of three different characters who are each living unique lives within the world’s discriminatory society.
I loved reading each character’s povs. They’re all super interesting and pretty different from each other but with all their secrets they become parallels of each other which I really love.
The real world critique through the eye colour system was interesting especially when that wasn’t the only way to discriminate against people in the world.
The world building was amazing and lively with the writing and descriptions being very visual. I loved the magic system and the sci-fi elements as well as how complex it was without actually making anything too confusing to read.
Also I kinda really liked the anthem’s lyrics. They only showed up once but they clearly stated how the world worked within a few lines which was really interesting.
The ending and climax are awesome, I was really on the edge of my seat for the last few chapters but now I wanna know what colour are her eyes? I'm thinking heterochromic blue and black maybe both in each eye? One thing I’m certain about though is that I need a second book right now. There will be a sequel right? Right?
E-arc provided by NetGalley!
I loved reading each character’s povs. They’re all super interesting and pretty different from each other but with all their secrets they become parallels of each other which I really love.
The real world critique through the eye colour system was interesting especially when that wasn’t the only way to discriminate against people in the world.
The world building was amazing and lively with the writing and descriptions being very visual. I loved the magic system and the sci-fi elements as well as how complex it was without actually making anything too confusing to read.
Also I kinda really liked the anthem’s lyrics. They only showed up once but they clearly stated how the world worked within a few lines which was really interesting.
The ending and climax are awesome, I was really on the edge of my seat for the last few chapters but now I wanna know what colour are her eyes? I'm thinking heterochromic blue and black maybe both in each eye? One thing I’m certain about though is that I need a second book right now. There will be a sequel right? Right?
E-arc provided by NetGalley!
July 17, 2025
This is a YA fantasy/dystopian novel centres around systematic oppression focusing on caste systems. In a world where people are segregated due to the colour of their eyes, someone who doesn't fit neatly in that mould is a threat to the system. It's giving Divergent vibes.
I really enjoyed reading this, the characters were likeable and i couldn't help but root for the FMC.
I am really excited for the next book. This one ended on such a cliffhanger that I cannot wait to read more!!
Thank you One More Chapter for this advanced copy.
I really enjoyed reading this, the characters were likeable and i couldn't help but root for the FMC.
I am really excited for the next book. This one ended on such a cliffhanger that I cannot wait to read more!!
Thank you One More Chapter for this advanced copy.
Want to read
May 26, 2025pre-read: I heard Freddy Carter might voice the audiobook so this is a note to myself- READ THE AUDIOBOOK
June 14, 2025
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes
by Sophia Vahdati.
This was a really good read. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I did like Jantsia and Daezen. Especially how he saved her. I liked the writing style. Wow. The ending. That did surprise me. I di hope there is more to come.
Blurb.
Description
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
Jantsia’s secret will kill her…
In the Empire of Shariza, eye colour determines wealth, status and even access to magical powers. Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four oculary castes. Destined for servitude.
But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth. Jantsia is a dual-oc, a forbidden mix of two castes, condemned to death if discovered. To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
Or will the truth save them all?
Yet whispers of rebellion are growing, and cracks are forming in the very foundations of their society. Could it be that the fiery untapped power burning inside Jantsia is a gift rather than a curse?
But who to trust when different means death?
👁️❄️👁️❄️
@Sophia Vahdati ~ YA Fantasy Author
@HarperCollins UK
@oneMoreChapter
@netgalley
#FreeBookReview #ad
by Sophia Vahdati.
This was a really good read. I loved the cover and blurb of this book. I did like Jantsia and Daezen. Especially how he saved her. I liked the writing style. Wow. The ending. That did surprise me. I di hope there is more to come.
Blurb.
Description
👁️ Your eyes decide your destiny 👁️
Jantsia’s secret will kill her…
In the Empire of Shariza, eye colour determines wealth, status and even access to magical powers. Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four oculary castes. Destined for servitude.
But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth. Jantsia is a dual-oc, a forbidden mix of two castes, condemned to death if discovered. To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
Or will the truth save them all?
Yet whispers of rebellion are growing, and cracks are forming in the very foundations of their society. Could it be that the fiery untapped power burning inside Jantsia is a gift rather than a curse?
But who to trust when different means death?
👁️❄️👁️❄️
@Sophia Vahdati ~ YA Fantasy Author
@HarperCollins UK
@oneMoreChapter
@netgalley
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August 8, 2025
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes – a magical reading experience for all ages
When I opened up a novel for young adults as a reader past those years, I didn’t quite know what to expect. But here’s what I found: a gripping story with all the density and intensity of meaning to be expected from a short story, but the developed character nuance of a top novel.
Through the narrative, Vahdati places herself at the compact centre of a complex spider web. All the strands of a life – inspired by her own lived experiences – reaching outwards, some more interconnected than others. Her descriptions draw us into her centre. There, her experiences blur with our own. She shows us each thread through her eyes and somehow then we see them through ours.
Not only does the reader feels like a confidant/e to each character and to the author herself, but they are gripped by storytelling to match the sophistication of its deep subtext.
That’s at macro level – in micro terms, there are several “highlightable” sections, words of wisdom I wish I’d had as a young adult – words that help me make sense of my own thoughts, feelings and prejudices even now.
At times Vahdati could, perhaps, have been less ambitious with her exposition. Had she slowed the pace of revealing the hierarchy of this dystopia, I would have slipped into it more easily. However, there’s a strong argument for emersion and it’s that pace that puts us readers eye to eye with each of her conflicted characters.
At 19 I’d have been overtly obsessed with the world this novel builds and the version – or rather versions – of me it reflects back. At 33, I’m still unable to keep that obsession to myself! This is not the work of a debut novelist, but of a writer accomplished in her study of the human condition.
When I opened up a novel for young adults as a reader past those years, I didn’t quite know what to expect. But here’s what I found: a gripping story with all the density and intensity of meaning to be expected from a short story, but the developed character nuance of a top novel.
Through the narrative, Vahdati places herself at the compact centre of a complex spider web. All the strands of a life – inspired by her own lived experiences – reaching outwards, some more interconnected than others. Her descriptions draw us into her centre. There, her experiences blur with our own. She shows us each thread through her eyes and somehow then we see them through ours.
Not only does the reader feels like a confidant/e to each character and to the author herself, but they are gripped by storytelling to match the sophistication of its deep subtext.
That’s at macro level – in micro terms, there are several “highlightable” sections, words of wisdom I wish I’d had as a young adult – words that help me make sense of my own thoughts, feelings and prejudices even now.
At times Vahdati could, perhaps, have been less ambitious with her exposition. Had she slowed the pace of revealing the hierarchy of this dystopia, I would have slipped into it more easily. However, there’s a strong argument for emersion and it’s that pace that puts us readers eye to eye with each of her conflicted characters.
At 19 I’d have been overtly obsessed with the world this novel builds and the version – or rather versions – of me it reflects back. At 33, I’m still unable to keep that obsession to myself! This is not the work of a debut novelist, but of a writer accomplished in her study of the human condition.
September 2, 2025
I almost DNF this book. The multiple POVs were too much, in my opinion, especially for such a relatively short book. I could not really identify myself with any of the characters and thought some were just plain annoying. In the end, everything came together, but for me, the last 30 pages were not worth the previous 330. I'm not sure if I will read part 2 when it releases.
July 6, 2025
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for approving me to read this book, I’m rating it 4.0 stars.
I liked this a lot, it exceeded my expectations. There is a rebellion occurring behind the scenes that reminded me somewhat of the book The Final Strife and I mean that in the best way. The plot is unique for this story with an unusual magic system linked and detectable by eye colour distinguishing what race of people you belong to. There’s heavy tones of segregation, prejudice and cruelty in this story with political strife. The FMC at the heart of the story is in a precarious position always trying to remain invisible and compliant to get by, we see her on the cusp of change with truth and lies revealing themself. The FMC is a lovely character and it was great to see her growth and admirable strength carry her through the awful and tense situations she faces. Her best friend is a highlight to the story too, but I am fascinated to see what will become of him and his brother after where things leave off.
Fans of plot driven YA fantasy will like this one, it’s interesting and fresh.
I liked this a lot, it exceeded my expectations. There is a rebellion occurring behind the scenes that reminded me somewhat of the book The Final Strife and I mean that in the best way. The plot is unique for this story with an unusual magic system linked and detectable by eye colour distinguishing what race of people you belong to. There’s heavy tones of segregation, prejudice and cruelty in this story with political strife. The FMC at the heart of the story is in a precarious position always trying to remain invisible and compliant to get by, we see her on the cusp of change with truth and lies revealing themself. The FMC is a lovely character and it was great to see her growth and admirable strength carry her through the awful and tense situations she faces. Her best friend is a highlight to the story too, but I am fascinated to see what will become of him and his brother after where things leave off.
Fans of plot driven YA fantasy will like this one, it’s interesting and fresh.
September 1, 2025
(Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion - and apologies for the long delay in providing it...)
First of all - dystopian fics are back in full swing and I'm all for it guys!!
This story had great potential and I did like it, but the execution proved tedious at times. It's a very, very, *very* rich world building which would've gained much by being explained more. As it stands, there was barely any explanation for the gods, the cast system, the religions, the languages or anything else. It was just thrown at us and we were supposed to roll with it; this can work but only if the world building is kept simple and straightforward which was definitely not the case here.
As for the characters, I felt little to no connection to them. Jantsia is incredibly naive and unaware for someone who's supposed to stay aware to stay alive; and Soba is just a void of... anything. I wanted the shake the former and could not care less about the latter. The MCs actually kinda saved this for me, especially Daezen, who I found very believable.
Not sure I'll pick up the next book yet, tbh - but this was still quite enjoyable.
First of all - dystopian fics are back in full swing and I'm all for it guys!!
This story had great potential and I did like it, but the execution proved tedious at times. It's a very, very, *very* rich world building which would've gained much by being explained more. As it stands, there was barely any explanation for the gods, the cast system, the religions, the languages or anything else. It was just thrown at us and we were supposed to roll with it; this can work but only if the world building is kept simple and straightforward which was definitely not the case here.
As for the characters, I felt little to no connection to them. Jantsia is incredibly naive and unaware for someone who's supposed to stay aware to stay alive; and Soba is just a void of... anything. I wanted the shake the former and could not care less about the latter. The MCs actually kinda saved this for me, especially Daezen, who I found very believable.
Not sure I'll pick up the next book yet, tbh - but this was still quite enjoyable.
June 14, 2025
This debut YA romantasy was well written and and the romance was sweet. Very dystopian-vibes with some mentions of past child grooming/death/torture.
Jantsias mantra in life is ‘stay invisible stay alive’
The world is very divergent-esque, where eye colours dictate your wealth, status and magic. Our FMC has a secret though… she has two different eye colours. This is illegal in this society and she has had to hide this all her life. But… there is a rebellion coming, and she has to choose what and who to protect, and what is worth the risk…
Daezen was my absolute favourite, and the way he (insert spoiler here) at the end was just a whole vibe and I am really excited for more!
There’s potential in this story for a love triangle in the next book I suspect and I’m excited to see how this develops.
The writing was clear and easy to read, it was dual POV and all three POVs were unique in their thoughts and devilling and I was able to keep pace with the story easily.
I think this book would be a great step for new to fantasy/dystopian readers!
Jantsias mantra in life is ‘stay invisible stay alive’
The world is very divergent-esque, where eye colours dictate your wealth, status and magic. Our FMC has a secret though… she has two different eye colours. This is illegal in this society and she has had to hide this all her life. But… there is a rebellion coming, and she has to choose what and who to protect, and what is worth the risk…
Daezen was my absolute favourite, and the way he (insert spoiler here) at the end was just a whole vibe and I am really excited for more!
There’s potential in this story for a love triangle in the next book I suspect and I’m excited to see how this develops.
The writing was clear and easy to read, it was dual POV and all three POVs were unique in their thoughts and devilling and I was able to keep pace with the story easily.
I think this book would be a great step for new to fantasy/dystopian readers!
July 22, 2025
I personally didn’t really like this book, but I might just be too old to relate to certain y/a themes. I thought the world building and magic was really interesting, but also a bit complicated and I whish we got more time to get used to it. The characters didn’t interest me that much, except our main girl Jantsia. The love interest and ‘rebellious clubbing scene’ annoyed me but I understand how this suits a younger audience. I’m also sad to say this isn’t a standalone, even though it looks like one, because we should have more of those. Sorry to be a bit of a Negative Nancy this story just didn’t work for me :(
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July 12, 2025Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes by Sophia Vahdati is a third person multi-POV YA fantasy exploring a caste system based on eye color in a contemporary-inspired world. Jantsia was born to parents who belonged to two different castes, making her existence not only illegal but also an anomaly in their society because all babies like her die within two years. At seventeen, Jantsia is asking a lot more questions and so is her best friend and crush Kain. The world is at risk of changing and Jantsia might be at the center of it.
The eye color aspects to the worldbuilding are threaded throughout in some of the words as dual-oc (dual-ocular) and a swear word using ‘oc.’ Azure (blue-eyed) caste members are said to have water magic and are often responsible for clean-up as they are the very bottom rung. Obsidian, the same caste Jantsia’s mother belongs to, are at the very top of the system. As often occurs in works with caste systems, eye color is also linked to class with no real possibility for upward movement no matter how hard someone works or what interests they have.
There is something of a love triangle brewing between Jantsia and the brothers Kain and Daezen. Daezen doesn’t totally trust Jantsia and knows that she’s hiding something (her dual-oc heritage) but not exactly what while Kain only just begins to notice his romantic feelings for Jantsia halfway through the book. Jantsia has liked Kain for a long time, but we also see her develop feelings for Daezen even if she doesn’t want to admit them to herself. If there is another book, I would be curious to see who she ends up picking as my instincts tell me it will be Daezen and Kain will become a villain down the line.
I would recommend this to fans of YA exploring caste-style systems
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes by Sophia Vahdati is a third person multi-POV YA fantasy exploring a caste system based on eye color in a contemporary-inspired world. Jantsia was born to parents who belonged to two different castes, making her existence not only illegal but also an anomaly in their society because all babies like her die within two years. At seventeen, Jantsia is asking a lot more questions and so is her best friend and crush Kain. The world is at risk of changing and Jantsia might be at the center of it.
The eye color aspects to the worldbuilding are threaded throughout in some of the words as dual-oc (dual-ocular) and a swear word using ‘oc.’ Azure (blue-eyed) caste members are said to have water magic and are often responsible for clean-up as they are the very bottom rung. Obsidian, the same caste Jantsia’s mother belongs to, are at the very top of the system. As often occurs in works with caste systems, eye color is also linked to class with no real possibility for upward movement no matter how hard someone works or what interests they have.
There is something of a love triangle brewing between Jantsia and the brothers Kain and Daezen. Daezen doesn’t totally trust Jantsia and knows that she’s hiding something (her dual-oc heritage) but not exactly what while Kain only just begins to notice his romantic feelings for Jantsia halfway through the book. Jantsia has liked Kain for a long time, but we also see her develop feelings for Daezen even if she doesn’t want to admit them to herself. If there is another book, I would be curious to see who she ends up picking as my instincts tell me it will be Daezen and Kain will become a villain down the line.
I would recommend this to fans of YA exploring caste-style systems
July 16, 2025
This was a book I was not sure about. It could be a hit, it could be not for me. However One More Chapter invited me to read the book through Netgalley and decided to accept the invitation and to give this book a chance.
After finishing the book I'm still not entirely sure about it. There are parts of the book I liked, there are parts I didn't like. The book as a whole didn't really work for me, but I guess that has mostly to do with the amount of point of views and the story mostly focusing on what is going on and less on how that makes the characters feel. I think that especially younger readers will love it however, because there is constantly something happening.
I mostly had an issue with the fact that at times it was hard to connect with the characters and hard to understand the direction of the characters and the story. At times it felt like the characters were mostly acting and not so much reacting and it took quite some time before all the storylines came together and we got an idea of what they were trying to do. The finale was a little chaotic and everything happened really fast, but the premise for the next book is amazing.
I did like the magic in this book, though! The magic had some elements of science and the line between magic and science fiction felt really thin in this book. That meant I needed a little time to grasp the world and to understand what kind of society this was and what was expected of the characters. If you're a true fantasy reader, the world might be a little too sci-fi for you. If you love a mix of both these genres, you might want to check this book out.
After finishing the book I'm still not entirely sure about it. There are parts of the book I liked, there are parts I didn't like. The book as a whole didn't really work for me, but I guess that has mostly to do with the amount of point of views and the story mostly focusing on what is going on and less on how that makes the characters feel. I think that especially younger readers will love it however, because there is constantly something happening.
I mostly had an issue with the fact that at times it was hard to connect with the characters and hard to understand the direction of the characters and the story. At times it felt like the characters were mostly acting and not so much reacting and it took quite some time before all the storylines came together and we got an idea of what they were trying to do. The finale was a little chaotic and everything happened really fast, but the premise for the next book is amazing.
I did like the magic in this book, though! The magic had some elements of science and the line between magic and science fiction felt really thin in this book. That meant I needed a little time to grasp the world and to understand what kind of society this was and what was expected of the characters. If you're a true fantasy reader, the world might be a little too sci-fi for you. If you love a mix of both these genres, you might want to check this book out.
July 19, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
3⭐️ | Published July 17th 2025
What if you lived in a world where something as insignificant as your eye colour decided your destiny? Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four occulary castes. Destined for servitude. But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth.
To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the caste system based on eye colour. The social hierarchy was unique and it was so interesting to explore a caste system where eye colours determined social status, magical powers and even occupation.
I am sorry to give this book 3 stars as the concept was so unique compared to anything I have read before. However the writing left a little more to be desired. Due to the complex ocular systems there is a lot of world building in at least the first 50% of the book and what I felt was info-dumping. This combined with the 3 POVs was a lot to take on in such a short book.
I think if you accept this book for what it is; an introduction to this unique world before the rest of the story begins you will enjoy this book a lot more. I wonder if a glossary would have been helpful for my understanding. I know that this is a debut novel from the writer so I am hoping this story improves in later books as I would still love to read the rest of her series.
You will like this is you are a fan of The Hunger Games and I have see others also compare it to other dystopian YA novels.
3⭐️ | Published July 17th 2025
What if you lived in a world where something as insignificant as your eye colour decided your destiny? Jantsia's blue eyes mark her as Azure, the lowest of the four occulary castes. Destined for servitude. But no one – not even the boy who owns her heart – knows the truth.
To survive, she clings to one rule: stay invisible, stay alive.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the caste system based on eye colour. The social hierarchy was unique and it was so interesting to explore a caste system where eye colours determined social status, magical powers and even occupation.
I am sorry to give this book 3 stars as the concept was so unique compared to anything I have read before. However the writing left a little more to be desired. Due to the complex ocular systems there is a lot of world building in at least the first 50% of the book and what I felt was info-dumping. This combined with the 3 POVs was a lot to take on in such a short book.
I think if you accept this book for what it is; an introduction to this unique world before the rest of the story begins you will enjoy this book a lot more. I wonder if a glossary would have been helpful for my understanding. I know that this is a debut novel from the writer so I am hoping this story improves in later books as I would still love to read the rest of her series.
You will like this is you are a fan of The Hunger Games and I have see others also compare it to other dystopian YA novels.
July 28, 2025
I enjoyed reading this one. There's a lot of comparisons to be made with things like divergent etc and I see why. But there are also a lot of elements in this that whilst being tougher to read were handled in a very careful way. The concept of grooming in a relationship was very well handled and from personal experience very well done and it still kept in a way that is respectful to the fact that this is a upper YA book.
Another thing on the back of that that I very much enjoyed was conflicting feelings towards sexuality being discovered, and finding out you are attracted to someone you never thought you would be. And that was handled so well!!!
The reason this review has been hard for me to write is as much as a rate based on feelings and some thoughts, the pacing felt off to me. Now that might be becuase I wasn't aware this was a book 1 and not a standalone. And as such there's a lot more worldbuilding to set it up for book 2 etc . But in hindsight its still a little off.
I will likely pick up book 2 when its released out of my curiosity rather than a drive to finish the series.
If im being honest this is just a smidge under 4 stars but 4 is what im logging it as
Another thing on the back of that that I very much enjoyed was conflicting feelings towards sexuality being discovered, and finding out you are attracted to someone you never thought you would be. And that was handled so well!!!
The reason this review has been hard for me to write is as much as a rate based on feelings and some thoughts, the pacing felt off to me. Now that might be becuase I wasn't aware this was a book 1 and not a standalone. And as such there's a lot more worldbuilding to set it up for book 2 etc . But in hindsight its still a little off.
I will likely pick up book 2 when its released out of my curiosity rather than a drive to finish the series.
If im being honest this is just a smidge under 4 stars but 4 is what im logging it as
July 17, 2025
4.5 Stars ✨
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story flows so effortlessly and each of the characters are layered with so much detail and emotional depth. Oh, and did I mention there’s a little cat in the story as well? 🐈
Eye colours are used as a symbol for social power and discrimination, placing blue eyes at the bottom of the caste system. Dual-heritage is explored through our FMC Jantsia, who goes through the complexities of identity and not fitting into neat societal categories. Jantsia’s journey is a powerful commentary on race, class, and the fear (as well as potential) of difference.
The magic system is intriguing and original, and I really enjoyed the multi POVs. I think it was a great touch, especially having Soba’s be one of them. Daezen was an instant win for me, I love a grumpy MMC who has an emotional awakening 👀
I also thought the name choices were very interesting, with lots of different backgrounds appearing throughout as we get to know more and more characters!
The ending? I literally needed a moment to compose myself. There was so many things running through my head but overall, without spoiling anything, I am very glad that there was clarification in regards to a few things at least! I will let my imagination run wild for the rest whilst we wait for the next book!
I’m really hoping we get to have a map in Book Two, it would be a great addition to the story!
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for this eARC, it’s been a pleasure!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the story flows so effortlessly and each of the characters are layered with so much detail and emotional depth. Oh, and did I mention there’s a little cat in the story as well? 🐈
Eye colours are used as a symbol for social power and discrimination, placing blue eyes at the bottom of the caste system. Dual-heritage is explored through our FMC Jantsia, who goes through the complexities of identity and not fitting into neat societal categories. Jantsia’s journey is a powerful commentary on race, class, and the fear (as well as potential) of difference.
The magic system is intriguing and original, and I really enjoyed the multi POVs. I think it was a great touch, especially having Soba’s be one of them. Daezen was an instant win for me, I love a grumpy MMC who has an emotional awakening 👀
I also thought the name choices were very interesting, with lots of different backgrounds appearing throughout as we get to know more and more characters!
The ending? I literally needed a moment to compose myself. There was so many things running through my head but overall, without spoiling anything, I am very glad that there was clarification in regards to a few things at least! I will let my imagination run wild for the rest whilst we wait for the next book!
I’m really hoping we get to have a map in Book Two, it would be a great addition to the story!
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for this eARC, it’s been a pleasure!
July 17, 2025
Happy publishing day
💭 #QOTD would you rather be able to control water, earth, sound or tech?
Title: The Girl with the Fierce Eyes
Author: Sophia Vahdati
Pages: 384
Rating: 5/5
Spice/Romance level: 🩷 - psssst there's kissing
#Arc eCopy ( #gifted ) - review left voluntarily
UK publish date - 17th July 2025
Well this was just an epic young adult read. The world building had me hooked. The segregations, the poverty, the judgement. The hope. This was wonderfully written. The gentleness of a coming of age, and save the world plot. The little unexpected twists along the way as the plot unfolds.
The characters were great. I loved the description of the mod work from one of them. The different type of rebel groups and beliefs were so interesting.
It is based on a 3 character POV giving different experiences of what makes people tick.
The book is laced with betrayal, loyalty, power play, love and honour. I was so sad when it came to an end.
A well written, build up to a fantastic series.
Will you join the rebels and fight the cause, or submit and fight for segregation and purity?
You'll love this book if you like;
- Young adult fantasy
- dystopian sci fi fantasy
- segregation of powers
- destiny
- friends to lovers
- fire cats
- multiple povs
- rebels
- magic system based on eye colour
- secret identities
Will you be reading this? Let me know in the comments
💭 #QOTD would you rather be able to control water, earth, sound or tech?
Title: The Girl with the Fierce Eyes
Author: Sophia Vahdati
Pages: 384
Rating: 5/5
Spice/Romance level: 🩷 - psssst there's kissing
#Arc eCopy ( #gifted ) - review left voluntarily
UK publish date - 17th July 2025
Well this was just an epic young adult read. The world building had me hooked. The segregations, the poverty, the judgement. The hope. This was wonderfully written. The gentleness of a coming of age, and save the world plot. The little unexpected twists along the way as the plot unfolds.
The characters were great. I loved the description of the mod work from one of them. The different type of rebel groups and beliefs were so interesting.
It is based on a 3 character POV giving different experiences of what makes people tick.
The book is laced with betrayal, loyalty, power play, love and honour. I was so sad when it came to an end.
A well written, build up to a fantastic series.
Will you join the rebels and fight the cause, or submit and fight for segregation and purity?
You'll love this book if you like;
- Young adult fantasy
- dystopian sci fi fantasy
- segregation of powers
- destiny
- friends to lovers
- fire cats
- multiple povs
- rebels
- magic system based on eye colour
- secret identities
Will you be reading this? Let me know in the comments
July 30, 2025
3.5⭐️
Thank you to One More Chapter for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book!
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is a good debut that blends elements of fantasy and dystopian fiction. The story is set in a contemporary world where social hierarchy and magical ability are determined by eye color, and intermixing between groups is forbidden due to the fatal consequences, or so they’ve been led to believe.
Told through three alternating perspectives, the book offers a well-rounded view of the world and adds depth to the narrative. This structure helps reveal the complexities of the society and enriches the plot.
The story was intriguing and made for a quick, engaging read. However, I found the target audience a bit unclear. While the tone and characters often felt more juvenile, the book touches on mature themes with multiple mentions of sex, drug/alcohol use, and allusions to child grooming and sexual assault, all of which suggest it’s more appropriate for an upper YA audience.
Though it skewed a bit young for my personal taste, I believe it will resonate with teen readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy and dystopian elements. The ending sets up for an interesting sequel, and I’m curious to see where the story goes next!
Thank you to One More Chapter for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book!
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is a good debut that blends elements of fantasy and dystopian fiction. The story is set in a contemporary world where social hierarchy and magical ability are determined by eye color, and intermixing between groups is forbidden due to the fatal consequences, or so they’ve been led to believe.
Told through three alternating perspectives, the book offers a well-rounded view of the world and adds depth to the narrative. This structure helps reveal the complexities of the society and enriches the plot.
The story was intriguing and made for a quick, engaging read. However, I found the target audience a bit unclear. While the tone and characters often felt more juvenile, the book touches on mature themes with multiple mentions of sex, drug/alcohol use, and allusions to child grooming and sexual assault, all of which suggest it’s more appropriate for an upper YA audience.
Though it skewed a bit young for my personal taste, I believe it will resonate with teen readers who enjoy a mix of fantasy and dystopian elements. The ending sets up for an interesting sequel, and I’m curious to see where the story goes next!
July 17, 2025
3.5 stars
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is a bold, thought-provoking debut with a unique concept. Vahdati explores power, identity, and belonging through a dystopian world where eye colour determines the hierarchy, an inventive twist that adds depth to the story’s themes.
The multi-POV structure adds variety, though I found it harder to connect deeply with each character. Some felt a bit young, but that likely fits the YA audience. Daezan was a standout for me. The world-building was intriguing, but at times confusing, and I would’ve loved more clarity and detail.
That said, the pacing was strong, the themes were impactful, and the ending packed a punch. A solid setup with a lot of potential, and I’m looking forward to seeing how book two develops
The Girl with the Fierce Eyes is a bold, thought-provoking debut with a unique concept. Vahdati explores power, identity, and belonging through a dystopian world where eye colour determines the hierarchy, an inventive twist that adds depth to the story’s themes.
The multi-POV structure adds variety, though I found it harder to connect deeply with each character. Some felt a bit young, but that likely fits the YA audience. Daezan was a standout for me. The world-building was intriguing, but at times confusing, and I would’ve loved more clarity and detail.
That said, the pacing was strong, the themes were impactful, and the ending packed a punch. A solid setup with a lot of potential, and I’m looking forward to seeing how book two develops
July 8, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I went into this book pretty blind and what I found within was a brilliant gem of a YA urban fantasy-dystopia, perfect for fans of the classics from the early 2000s like The Hunger Games, Divergent, Maze Runner and Uglies. A society based on eye colour (and the powers that go along with them), a rebellion simmering, a girl caught between two lives. Split between three POVs, the story kicks off right away and the groundwork is laid for what I'm sure will be a brilliant series. The world is original and complex, diverse and queer-normative. Eye-based magic runs alongside futuristic tech and hoverbikes in a city marred by poverty-stricken slums and a heartless ruling class. While I felt like the rebels were possibly a bit TOO quick to trust at certain times, I thoroughly enjoyed it and will absolutely be looking our for the sequel!
Note: while this book is YA, it does deal with some subjects that may not be suitable for younger readers. Check the trigger warnings in the description before reading it.
I went into this book pretty blind and what I found within was a brilliant gem of a YA urban fantasy-dystopia, perfect for fans of the classics from the early 2000s like The Hunger Games, Divergent, Maze Runner and Uglies. A society based on eye colour (and the powers that go along with them), a rebellion simmering, a girl caught between two lives. Split between three POVs, the story kicks off right away and the groundwork is laid for what I'm sure will be a brilliant series. The world is original and complex, diverse and queer-normative. Eye-based magic runs alongside futuristic tech and hoverbikes in a city marred by poverty-stricken slums and a heartless ruling class. While I felt like the rebels were possibly a bit TOO quick to trust at certain times, I thoroughly enjoyed it and will absolutely be looking our for the sequel!
Note: while this book is YA, it does deal with some subjects that may not be suitable for younger readers. Check the trigger warnings in the description before reading it.
July 2, 2025
This story follows Jantsia, a girl who should not exist. In the Empire of Shariza, eye color determines the hierarchy of society. Outwardly Jantsia appears to be an Azure, the lowest of the four castes, but she is secretly a duol-oc, or a mix of two castes. If she were to be discovered, she would be condemned to death, as would her family. She must navigate society, and figure out how to stay invisible to stay alive.
The overall story and setting were intriguing and the writing was well done. The dystopian world was well thought out, and I can’t wait to hear more about the other Kingdoms. The beginning of the book was a bit slow for me, though by the end of the book, I didn’t want to put the book down.
Knowing now this has at least a sequel coming explains why it took a bit to get into the book. I appreciated the relationship between the main characters, and seeing how they all grew in their own ways throughout the story. The romance aspect was a side character, which I appreciated it not being the main focus. It helped shape the relationships and how the characters interacted with each other.
The social commentary around society was also well done, with one of the most memorable quotes being “…the real reason they wanted knowledge behind a digital gate, was to limit the access to knowledge among lighter colours.” The ending had me wanting to know what will happen next with all of the characters and I will definitely be looking to continue reading in this world.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The overall story and setting were intriguing and the writing was well done. The dystopian world was well thought out, and I can’t wait to hear more about the other Kingdoms. The beginning of the book was a bit slow for me, though by the end of the book, I didn’t want to put the book down.
Knowing now this has at least a sequel coming explains why it took a bit to get into the book. I appreciated the relationship between the main characters, and seeing how they all grew in their own ways throughout the story. The romance aspect was a side character, which I appreciated it not being the main focus. It helped shape the relationships and how the characters interacted with each other.
The social commentary around society was also well done, with one of the most memorable quotes being “…the real reason they wanted knowledge behind a digital gate, was to limit the access to knowledge among lighter colours.” The ending had me wanting to know what will happen next with all of the characters and I will definitely be looking to continue reading in this world.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2025
The girl with the fierce eyes - Sophia Vahdati
Great book! With an Interesting replacement of the words fuck with ock and twat with twack lol 😂 everything seems to be about the eyes recently
“Lied to? My eyes aren’t blue, are they?”
“No, Miha.”
“What colour are they? Are they black? Am I obsidian?”
“No, Miha.” This time she could hear the crack in her mother’s voice.
“Well, surely I’m not sepia… or Veridian… My eyes aren’t brown or green are they?”
“No.”
“What colour are my eyes? She paused letting the question float in the air.
Then asked what she really wanted to know.
“What am I?”
👀 👀 👀 👀
Great book! With an Interesting replacement of the words fuck with ock and twat with twack lol 😂 everything seems to be about the eyes recently
“Lied to? My eyes aren’t blue, are they?”
“No, Miha.”
“What colour are they? Are they black? Am I obsidian?”
“No, Miha.” This time she could hear the crack in her mother’s voice.
“Well, surely I’m not sepia… or Veridian… My eyes aren’t brown or green are they?”
“No.”
“What colour are my eyes? She paused letting the question float in the air.
Then asked what she really wanted to know.
“What am I?”
👀 👀 👀 👀
June 10, 2025
This is a great YA book, packed with action, wholesome youngsters and a very distinct magic system.
Jantsia is not supposed to exist — her high born Obsidian eyed mother lives against the rules and in secret with her Azure eyed father. Everyone knows children born to parents with different eye colors contract a horrible disease and die young, so they’re killed as babies. It’s imperative that no one finds out about Jantsia’s mixed heritage, as you might imagine.
Jantsia also grapples with perfectly normal teenage things like being in love with her best friend, Kain, while also being inexplicably attracted to Kain’s older mysterious and dangerous brother. Exams are fast approaching and since Jantsia is neither Obsidian nor Azure, she struggles accessing her magic causing stress. Her high born mom is strict and doesn’t understand her struggles, and there’s some parental tension happening.
All this goes on while they uncover a rebellion, try to fight the good fight for inclusion, acceptance and equality. And despite there being plenty of dark themes (drugs, betrayal, grooming of minors), it’s a rather wholesome affair. The characters in focus are complex and real in a way that is just lovely for a younger audience. I’m rooting for all of them.
Thanks Sophia Vahdati, OneMoreChapter and NetGalley for granting me this eARC to review!
Jantsia is not supposed to exist — her high born Obsidian eyed mother lives against the rules and in secret with her Azure eyed father. Everyone knows children born to parents with different eye colors contract a horrible disease and die young, so they’re killed as babies. It’s imperative that no one finds out about Jantsia’s mixed heritage, as you might imagine.
Jantsia also grapples with perfectly normal teenage things like being in love with her best friend, Kain, while also being inexplicably attracted to Kain’s older mysterious and dangerous brother. Exams are fast approaching and since Jantsia is neither Obsidian nor Azure, she struggles accessing her magic causing stress. Her high born mom is strict and doesn’t understand her struggles, and there’s some parental tension happening.
All this goes on while they uncover a rebellion, try to fight the good fight for inclusion, acceptance and equality. And despite there being plenty of dark themes (drugs, betrayal, grooming of minors), it’s a rather wholesome affair. The characters in focus are complex and real in a way that is just lovely for a younger audience. I’m rooting for all of them.
Thanks Sophia Vahdati, OneMoreChapter and NetGalley for granting me this eARC to review!
June 24, 2025
The concept and magic system were engaging, and reading about the different oculary orders and their differences (in lifestyle, socioeconomic status, etc.) was really intriguing! I enjoyed the different POVs as well as the variety of settings that we see the characters in (i.e., school lessons, home lives, time spent with other characters, etc.). In my opinion, some of the world-building may have benefited from a bit more explanation, but most things could be figured out with context.
The relationship dynamics were quite interesting. The friendships, romantic relationships, and different family situations are engaging, and I can’t wait to see where they lead in the next book! Also, Luz is fantastic—he’s a cat, so obviously he didn’t further the plot that much, but I love him. Reading Soba’s story broke my heart because I feel like she could be a genuinely nice person if the circumstances were different (Elias is in my top 5 hated characters for sure).
Be warned: there is a cliffhanger at the end, and I wish we found out the answer to Jantsia’s question, but other than that, I am satisfied with the ending.
Overall, I had a great reading experience. I look forward to seeing how the story develops as more books in the series are released!
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the eARC!
The relationship dynamics were quite interesting. The friendships, romantic relationships, and different family situations are engaging, and I can’t wait to see where they lead in the next book! Also, Luz is fantastic—he’s a cat, so obviously he didn’t further the plot that much, but I love him. Reading Soba’s story broke my heart because I feel like she could be a genuinely nice person if the circumstances were different (Elias is in my top 5 hated characters for sure).
Be warned: there is a cliffhanger at the end, and I wish we found out the answer to Jantsia’s question, but other than that, I am satisfied with the ending.
Overall, I had a great reading experience. I look forward to seeing how the story develops as more books in the series are released!
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter for the eARC!
June 28, 2025
4.5/5
“Stay invisible. Stay alive”
In this YA dystopian, the colour of your eyes dictates your social standing. Written in three POVs; Jantsia - a lowly blue eyed Azure with a secret that could get her killed
Daezen - Jantsia’s best friend’s older brother, head of the family after the death of their pa
Soba - an obsidian eyed inspector on a mission to infiltrate a group of Azure rebels
This book was very well written! I absolutely devoured it in less than 24 hours! It gave me Noughts and Crosses vibes but magical! That cliffhanger has me highly anticipating book two!
There were several dark themes explored in this book, and they were handled exceptionally well for a younger audience. While there’s a romantic element to the story, I don’t think it detracts from the overall narrative, which was quite refreshing compared to many recent books I’ve read.
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter, HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this title.
“Stay invisible. Stay alive”
In this YA dystopian, the colour of your eyes dictates your social standing. Written in three POVs; Jantsia - a lowly blue eyed Azure with a secret that could get her killed
Daezen - Jantsia’s best friend’s older brother, head of the family after the death of their pa
Soba - an obsidian eyed inspector on a mission to infiltrate a group of Azure rebels
This book was very well written! I absolutely devoured it in less than 24 hours! It gave me Noughts and Crosses vibes but magical! That cliffhanger has me highly anticipating book two!
There were several dark themes explored in this book, and they were handled exceptionally well for a younger audience. While there’s a romantic element to the story, I don’t think it detracts from the overall narrative, which was quite refreshing compared to many recent books I’ve read.
Thank you to NetGalley and One More Chapter, HarperCollins for the opportunity to read this title.
July 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC in exchange for my honest review. The Girl With The Fierce Eyes is the perfect dystopian YA fantasy story. I was impressed by the world Sophia has created, full of magic, political intrigue, betrayals, and sweet romance. While I felt it was a tad more on the YA side than I prefer as someone slightly older, I still found it intriguing enough to want to continue the story. Give this one a try, it won’t disappoint!
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