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The Willowbane Saga #1
To Scale the Emerald Mountain
“Desperate people often do barbaric things.”
In a world divided since a long passed war, a towering willowbane tree sits, its petrified husk a reminder of the lies of the gods.
On the other side of the world, Ellya wakes in a dungeon with no memory of who she is. One thought dominates her mind, more pressing than remembering her own name. Escape. After a successful breakout, she meets an enigmatic man named Locane who helps her recall small bits of herself, including her deep magic.
Secluding themselves together, Locane tells Ellya about hidden gems containing the power of the gods, thought to only be myth. But Ellya’s powerful vision of an emerald in a cave makes her believe the legends may be true and she has a part to play in finding them, sowing seeds of doubt over Locane’s intentions.
After the reasons behind her lost memories are revealed, Ellya finds herself in a glittering desert city where she goes on a journey through self exploration, her personal relationships, trauma healing, and learning about her role in the quest to find the gems of the gods.
In a world divided since a long passed war, a towering willowbane tree sits, its petrified husk a reminder of the lies of the gods.
On the other side of the world, Ellya wakes in a dungeon with no memory of who she is. One thought dominates her mind, more pressing than remembering her own name. Escape. After a successful breakout, she meets an enigmatic man named Locane who helps her recall small bits of herself, including her deep magic.
Secluding themselves together, Locane tells Ellya about hidden gems containing the power of the gods, thought to only be myth. But Ellya’s powerful vision of an emerald in a cave makes her believe the legends may be true and she has a part to play in finding them, sowing seeds of doubt over Locane’s intentions.
After the reasons behind her lost memories are revealed, Ellya finds herself in a glittering desert city where she goes on a journey through self exploration, her personal relationships, trauma healing, and learning about her role in the quest to find the gems of the gods.
644 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2024
78 people are currently reading
1105 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
August 25, 2024
I was able to beta read and receive an ARC of this wonderful book. Wow! What a debut! What a twist on fantasy! What a wonderful story woven with romance, mystery, and twists. I was not expecting the twist and the directions it went, and I had such a fun ride with it!
I am so proud of Lindsey and how far she and this book has come! This book did not disappoint! And I’m so glad to have been part of the process!
I am so proud of Lindsey and how far she and this book has come! This book did not disappoint! And I’m so glad to have been part of the process!
November 12, 2024
To Scale the Emerald Mountain by Lindsey Willingham is a tempestuous, emotional expedition through trauma and healing that will have your emotions along for the experience. It is dark, and if CW/TW are even a potential concern for you, I strongly recommend checking them.
📝 I thought the plot was great, with well written twists and turns and some very unexpected twists - one shock that 🤯. I love and appreciate the focus on the facets of trauma as well as healing, recovering from trauma. I love and appreciate the discussion on mental health and seeking professional help. Characters encourage her to seek mental health help from a professional, and discuss that they have sought mental health help themselves - it's such an important topic.
The amnesia-like aspect feels well done and realistic to me, from my admittedly limited knowledge of amnesia.
✍️🏼 The writing is superb, with so many interesting turns of phrases and unexpected (and great) word choices.
The use of figurative language worked nicely to enhance to experience and make for a more vivid picture in my mind. I feel like this is an area that can be difficult to find the fine line between underutilizing and overusing things like metaphors, and Willingham managed to find the fine line - as a debut author. 🙌🏼
⏳️ It's well paced. I would put it as medium. Being the first book in an epic fantasy series, the world has to be built, of course, so the beginning is a tiny bit on the slower side, at times.
🌏 For the most part, the world building is sprinkled into the beginning in a way that doesn't slow the pace. Since Elly (FMC) has amnesia, you're learning the world with her and I found that I enjoyed that.
🔮 I found the magic to be well developed and explained. I appreciate that it has a cost and the wide variety of possible powers keeps things interesting.
I loved the generational, inherited magic, plus the unlimited potential and combos that could result with true mates. I enjoyed that while most people have either a physical OR a mental magic, a few people are blessed to inherit both.
👥 I love that we get characters that highlight the nuance in human psyche. We get a FMC that's been through it, isn't coping very well (understandably so), but it still comes across as prickly at times. That's real, that's human. We all handle stuff differently, even if, somehow, our stuff is 100% identical to someone else's. That doesn't inherently make one way right and the other wrong. We lash out, often at those closest to us who haven't done anything to deserve it. You get those things from Elly. But then, you get to watch her start to heal. Just remember, healing isn't linear, nor is it instantaneous.
Suffice it to say, I loved the characters and felt they were very well developed and full of personality. 😄
💞 It's a well done slow burn, with SO much angst and tension. The FMC is recovering from trauma and amnesia, so you get to watch as Elly and Alec's relationship grows and evolves. I prefer that to insta-love/lust all day long. When they do get to where they're more, it's more inpactful, to me.
🪟 There is a significant age gap (200+ years). Due to the way Willingham handles it makes it not problematic for me. However I know that's a deal breaker for some. Alec is very concerned with ensuring she has the chance to have all the same opportunities everyone else has (including him, from before they were together), even if that means dating, partners, etc. He tries to ensure Elly always knows she has full bodily autonomy, choice, and shows her nothing but love and respect.
🌶 If you like a MC that talks dirty, you're going to love Alec. 🥵 There's SO much tension built up by the time the main event happens, it's 🌶🌶🌶. The spice is deliciously well written, in time and place. One 🌶 scene is in such a gorgeous setting that I hope to always remember it. 🌌
📚 If you like: Feysand, Null & Void (R. Moody), Vesselless (Courtney L. Winn), Anathema (Keri Lake), or A Shadow in the Ember (Jennifer L. Armentrout), then I think you would enjoy this!
📝 I thought the plot was great, with well written twists and turns and some very unexpected twists - one shock that 🤯. I love and appreciate the focus on the facets of trauma as well as healing, recovering from trauma. I love and appreciate the discussion on mental health and seeking professional help. Characters encourage her to seek mental health help from a professional, and discuss that they have sought mental health help themselves - it's such an important topic.
The amnesia-like aspect feels well done and realistic to me, from my admittedly limited knowledge of amnesia.
✍️🏼 The writing is superb, with so many interesting turns of phrases and unexpected (and great) word choices.
The use of figurative language worked nicely to enhance to experience and make for a more vivid picture in my mind. I feel like this is an area that can be difficult to find the fine line between underutilizing and overusing things like metaphors, and Willingham managed to find the fine line - as a debut author. 🙌🏼
⏳️ It's well paced. I would put it as medium. Being the first book in an epic fantasy series, the world has to be built, of course, so the beginning is a tiny bit on the slower side, at times.
🌏 For the most part, the world building is sprinkled into the beginning in a way that doesn't slow the pace. Since Elly (FMC) has amnesia, you're learning the world with her and I found that I enjoyed that.
🔮 I found the magic to be well developed and explained. I appreciate that it has a cost and the wide variety of possible powers keeps things interesting.
I loved the generational, inherited magic, plus the unlimited potential and combos that could result with true mates. I enjoyed that while most people have either a physical OR a mental magic, a few people are blessed to inherit both.
👥 I love that we get characters that highlight the nuance in human psyche. We get a FMC that's been through it, isn't coping very well (understandably so), but it still comes across as prickly at times. That's real, that's human. We all handle stuff differently, even if, somehow, our stuff is 100% identical to someone else's. That doesn't inherently make one way right and the other wrong. We lash out, often at those closest to us who haven't done anything to deserve it. You get those things from Elly. But then, you get to watch her start to heal. Just remember, healing isn't linear, nor is it instantaneous.
Suffice it to say, I loved the characters and felt they were very well developed and full of personality. 😄
💞 It's a well done slow burn, with SO much angst and tension. The FMC is recovering from trauma and amnesia, so you get to watch as Elly and Alec's relationship grows and evolves. I prefer that to insta-love/lust all day long. When they do get to where they're more, it's more inpactful, to me.
🪟 There is a significant age gap (200+ years). Due to the way Willingham handles it makes it not problematic for me. However I know that's a deal breaker for some. Alec is very concerned with ensuring she has the chance to have all the same opportunities everyone else has (including him, from before they were together), even if that means dating, partners, etc. He tries to ensure Elly always knows she has full bodily autonomy, choice, and shows her nothing but love and respect.
🌶 If you like a MC that talks dirty, you're going to love Alec. 🥵 There's SO much tension built up by the time the main event happens, it's 🌶🌶🌶. The spice is deliciously well written, in time and place. One 🌶 scene is in such a gorgeous setting that I hope to always remember it. 🌌
📚 If you like: Feysand, Null & Void (R. Moody), Vesselless (Courtney L. Winn), Anathema (Keri Lake), or A Shadow in the Ember (Jennifer L. Armentrout), then I think you would enjoy this!
October 25, 2024
This book you guys! Where do I even start? First off, the spice is just top notch and you can’t convince me otherwise. Second, the mental health rep. I can’t say enough how real it felt, and how raw it felt. You will feel all the feels in this one and you won’t be mad about it! Third, the plot twist! I knew something was fishy, but damn, I couldn’t figure it out! Lastly, I just couldn’t put it down. Definitely a top read for me! You should read it, too.
April 22, 2025
I loved it. Wow. It’s a bit disorienting and slow at first (on purpose) and like the fmc, we have no idea what’s going on. But things slowly begin to take shape and little nuggets are dropped here and there. Some things feel so suspicious and you’re not sure who to trust or believe until the truth finally does come out.
Listen, if you loved Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas, you’ll like this book. Like that book, there is a lot of healing and accepting themselves and coming into their power/title/name/role.
But here’s a few other reasons to read it: unique magic system, enemies to lovers, fates mates, manipulation, amnesia (!!!!!! This one really got me, like wow. It was done so well, not cheesy at all), the beginnings of an incredible journey, good world building, and mmc has a dirty mouth 🫣🥵 like it left me speechless on a couple accounts (and I always have something to say 😂).
So go read this book, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Listen, if you loved Heir of Fire by Sarah J Maas, you’ll like this book. Like that book, there is a lot of healing and accepting themselves and coming into their power/title/name/role.
But here’s a few other reasons to read it: unique magic system, enemies to lovers, fates mates, manipulation, amnesia (!!!!!! This one really got me, like wow. It was done so well, not cheesy at all), the beginnings of an incredible journey, good world building, and mmc has a dirty mouth 🫣🥵 like it left me speechless on a couple accounts (and I always have something to say 😂).
So go read this book, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
Read
November 28, 2025Very, very well done. I’m thankful to have received the ARC, but glad I preordered a signed copy anyway, because this story is going places. It is so hard to believe this is an authors DEBUT novel. It is so well written and unpredictable. The descriptions of the people and places are done exceptionally well. I love when authors gradually paint a picture for you rather than blatantly telling you what you should be seeing.
The twists and turns that sneak up on you in this story have me continuing to question what actually happened and who I should trust. I can’t wait for the next book, because I have SO MANY theories. My mind is still reeling. I have super high hopes for the series!
The twists and turns that sneak up on you in this story have me continuing to question what actually happened and who I should trust. I can’t wait for the next book, because I have SO MANY theories. My mind is still reeling. I have super high hopes for the series!
December 23, 2024
Infinite stars.
I will start with the fact that this is hands down my favorite Fated Mates trope book EVER. More than Empire of Storms. More than Quicksilver. More than ACOMAF. I feel like that’s the most important info. Let’s continue. I’m going as in depth as possible without spoilers.
The writing style is fantastic. The writing itself, impeccable. The use of analogies, similes, metaphors… people don’t write like this anymore. But Lindsey does. And it’s her DEBUT.
I will start with the fact that this is hands down my favorite Fated Mates trope book EVER. More than Empire of Storms. More than Quicksilver. More than ACOMAF. I feel like that’s the most important info. Let’s continue. I’m going as in depth as possible without spoilers.
The writing style is fantastic. The writing itself, impeccable. The use of analogies, similes, metaphors… people don’t write like this anymore. But Lindsey does. And it’s her DEBUT.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I want to start by saying if you like Fated Mates, then this is the book for you. This was without a doubt one of the driving forces in this book and such an interesting take on the bond/connection between mates. I did have some reservations with the age gap at first but I think it was handled well! As you can imagine in a fated mates scenario, once they were finally united after a slow slow burn - well it was damn fireworks. The tension, the romance, the spice, it was all excellent, you better believe I was zooming through the last ¼ of the book. Also the adoration but mouth on the MMC had me 👀😮💨
As for the magic system/world, it was so unique and I think we get such a good introduction to all of it but I was also left full of questions that I am sure we will get to the bottom of later in the series! The different types of magic and their origin is so interesting, as well as the varying histories of their world. I really enjoyed the fact that I was not entirely certain what to believe for a large part of this story, I was constantly questioning what was true and what was not. It made for a bit of a slower start the first 20% for me but once you start to really connect to the FMC Ellya as she begins to regain memories and relearn her powers, then it definitely had my full attention!
Lindsey truly took a page from Locane’s book (and I mean that in the best damn way) to craft an incredible illusion because the twists were twisting and the ending definitely made me audibly gasp.
🗓️ October 21st, 2024 > look out for this one!
Thank you so much @authorlindseywillingham for sharing this e-arc with me! 🫶🏻
I want to start by saying if you like Fated Mates, then this is the book for you. This was without a doubt one of the driving forces in this book and such an interesting take on the bond/connection between mates. I did have some reservations with the age gap at first but I think it was handled well! As you can imagine in a fated mates scenario, once they were finally united after a slow slow burn - well it was damn fireworks. The tension, the romance, the spice, it was all excellent, you better believe I was zooming through the last ¼ of the book. Also the adoration but mouth on the MMC had me 👀😮💨
As for the magic system/world, it was so unique and I think we get such a good introduction to all of it but I was also left full of questions that I am sure we will get to the bottom of later in the series! The different types of magic and their origin is so interesting, as well as the varying histories of their world. I really enjoyed the fact that I was not entirely certain what to believe for a large part of this story, I was constantly questioning what was true and what was not. It made for a bit of a slower start the first 20% for me but once you start to really connect to the FMC Ellya as she begins to regain memories and relearn her powers, then it definitely had my full attention!
Lindsey truly took a page from Locane’s book (and I mean that in the best damn way) to craft an incredible illusion because the twists were twisting and the ending definitely made me audibly gasp.
🗓️ October 21st, 2024 > look out for this one!
Thank you so much @authorlindseywillingham for sharing this e-arc with me! 🫶🏻
February 8, 2025
First things first - thank you SO MUCH to Lindsey for the ARC of this book.
When I tell you that I am obsessed with this book/story, please know that I TRULY mean it. I'm team no spoilers in reviews, so this will be short and sweet - but here's just some snippets of what to expect when you read this:
- FMC w/trauma and how she handles it
- Amnesia trope
- Fated Mates
- Magic (systems, creatures, lore, the whole shebang)
- MMC is *chefs kiss* (easily tied for my favorite character with Cessy) but I can't say more without spoilers
- and more!!
If you're a fan of Sarah A Parker's Crystal Bloom series OR When The Moon Hatched - then this is a book you're going to need to add to your TBR asap!!
When I tell you that I am obsessed with this book/story, please know that I TRULY mean it. I'm team no spoilers in reviews, so this will be short and sweet - but here's just some snippets of what to expect when you read this:
- FMC w/trauma and how she handles it
- Amnesia trope
- Fated Mates
- Magic (systems, creatures, lore, the whole shebang)
- MMC is *chefs kiss* (easily tied for my favorite character with Cessy) but I can't say more without spoilers
- and more!!
If you're a fan of Sarah A Parker's Crystal Bloom series OR When The Moon Hatched - then this is a book you're going to need to add to your TBR asap!!
October 1, 2024
“I spent the last months trying to remember who I am, and now that I do, I wish I could forget.”
This is a story about rediscovering yourself, healing from trauma, and coming of age. Ellya’s journey is long and painful, and my heart hurt so much as she battled her internal and external demons. There were times I was cheering her on as she faced down the villain, and there were others when I was pleading with her to abandon her hotheaded, self-destructive tendencies and make a different choice - especially when those choices hurt the utterly perfect male who evokes swoons from every female he encounters (including me).
This book has everything you want in a fantasy romance:
✨ Fantasy world so unique that you won’t mind the history lessons
🕵️♀️ Her amnesia means that we have no idea who she is or who is after her
😈 Mysterious villain who you’ll love to hate
💗 Whirlwind, slowburn romance with so much angst
🔥 Main male character looks like Ben Barnes
🤯 Mind-blowing plot twists that will change everything
💀 Touch them and die, possessive behaviors from both
It’s the kind of story that will make you gasp. My favorite books are those that keep me guessing, where I have no idea what’s coming next, and this one has twists that you absolutely will not anticipate. Be prepared to have your mind blown.
There’s a big reveal at the end that sets up the plot for the next book, but it’s not a devastating cliffhanger - it’s more the type that will hype you up for what’s coming. Things are going to be wild, and I 👏 cannot 👏 wait. 👏
Readers who love fantasy romances from Sarah A. Parker (To Bleed a Crystal Bloom), Jenny Hickman (Bound by Gravity), Sarah J. Maas (A Court of Thorns and Roses), or Olivia Wildenstein (House of Beating Wings) should add this to your list.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Trigger warning: self-harm
This is a story about rediscovering yourself, healing from trauma, and coming of age. Ellya’s journey is long and painful, and my heart hurt so much as she battled her internal and external demons. There were times I was cheering her on as she faced down the villain, and there were others when I was pleading with her to abandon her hotheaded, self-destructive tendencies and make a different choice - especially when those choices hurt the utterly perfect male who evokes swoons from every female he encounters (including me).
This book has everything you want in a fantasy romance:
✨ Fantasy world so unique that you won’t mind the history lessons
🕵️♀️ Her amnesia means that we have no idea who she is or who is after her
😈 Mysterious villain who you’ll love to hate
💗 Whirlwind, slowburn romance with so much angst
🔥 Main male character looks like Ben Barnes
🤯 Mind-blowing plot twists that will change everything
💀 Touch them and die, possessive behaviors from both
It’s the kind of story that will make you gasp. My favorite books are those that keep me guessing, where I have no idea what’s coming next, and this one has twists that you absolutely will not anticipate. Be prepared to have your mind blown.
There’s a big reveal at the end that sets up the plot for the next book, but it’s not a devastating cliffhanger - it’s more the type that will hype you up for what’s coming. Things are going to be wild, and I 👏 cannot 👏 wait. 👏
Readers who love fantasy romances from Sarah A. Parker (To Bleed a Crystal Bloom), Jenny Hickman (Bound by Gravity), Sarah J. Maas (A Court of Thorns and Roses), or Olivia Wildenstein (House of Beating Wings) should add this to your list.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ (3/5)
Trigger warning: self-harm
August 12, 2025
This book was fantastic.
The story had me at a loss from the very beginning. Every time I’d try to figure out an element of what was happening, things would shift and that would leave me grappling! And just when you think you have an idea of the path this is taking — the bottom is literally pulled out from underneath you!!!! Like. Completely.
I’m absolutely walking away having finished this book with more trust issues than I had a few days ago. 😂😂😂😂😂
I don’t want to give anything away in my review - because I went into this story COMPLETELY 100% blind so if you can do the same totally do - BUT let me say I really, really loved all the spicy scenes and the way they were written. They were written in such a believable, relatable way and were SO freaking hot. 🥵 And some of my favorite parts of the book. I don’t know that I ACTUALLY like a slow burn but man, I really did enjoy this one. AND DID I MENTION THE TWISTS AND TURNS WITHIN THIS FREAKING STORY?!?! They are never ending. And unexpected!!!! Every. Single. Time.
The characters were stellar! Ellya is my girl for life. Again. Don’t want to ruin anything for anyone. 🤐 Okay well who cares I don’t feel right writing this review without saying I HAVE COME TO LOVE EVERY SINGLE THING ABOUT ALEC. (Especially the filthy things he sayyyyyyssssss!)
My gosh. What a tale! And what a great setup for book two!!!! I can’t wait to jump in.
The story had me at a loss from the very beginning. Every time I’d try to figure out an element of what was happening, things would shift and that would leave me grappling! And just when you think you have an idea of the path this is taking — the bottom is literally pulled out from underneath you!!!! Like. Completely.
I’m absolutely walking away having finished this book with more trust issues than I had a few days ago. 😂😂😂😂😂
I don’t want to give anything away in my review - because I went into this story COMPLETELY 100% blind so if you can do the same totally do - BUT let me say I really, really loved all the spicy scenes and the way they were written. They were written in such a believable, relatable way and were SO freaking hot. 🥵 And some of my favorite parts of the book. I don’t know that I ACTUALLY like a slow burn but man, I really did enjoy this one. AND DID I MENTION THE TWISTS AND TURNS WITHIN THIS FREAKING STORY?!?! They are never ending. And unexpected!!!! Every. Single. Time.
The characters were stellar! Ellya is my girl for life. Again. Don’t want to ruin anything for anyone. 🤐 Okay well who cares I don’t feel right writing this review without saying I HAVE COME TO LOVE EVERY SINGLE THING ABOUT ALEC. (Especially the filthy things he sayyyyyyssssss!)
My gosh. What a tale! And what a great setup for book two!!!! I can’t wait to jump in.
September 2, 2024
My mind was all over the place with this book.
At the beginning I was like “there’s just no way Lorcane can be it! I can’t get on board.” And I’m patiently waiting for how this is going to go for the FMC because I’m either going to love her decisions or be absolutely unhinged with her thought process with Lorcane.
And let me tell ya (without spoiling) that YAAAAS girl, thank goodness. The love interest is giving me Rhysand vibes and that’s a pretty high standard to meet . You need to give the first half a chance because phew it is worth all the struggles the FMC goes through.
I loved the amnesia, found family, and dual POV tropes. And I’m a sucker for fated mates and the jealousy is soooo good, to the point it was funny (I mean striking down a woman in the street for making googly eyes at your man? 😂)
This was a such a fun read and highly recommend!
At the beginning I was like “there’s just no way Lorcane can be it! I can’t get on board.” And I’m patiently waiting for how this is going to go for the FMC because I’m either going to love her decisions or be absolutely unhinged with her thought process with Lorcane.
And let me tell ya (without spoiling) that YAAAAS girl, thank goodness. The love interest is giving me Rhysand vibes and that’s a pretty high standard to meet . You need to give the first half a chance because phew it is worth all the struggles the FMC goes through.
I loved the amnesia, found family, and dual POV tropes. And I’m a sucker for fated mates and the jealousy is soooo good, to the point it was funny (I mean striking down a woman in the street for making googly eyes at your man? 😂)
This was a such a fun read and highly recommend!
August 24, 2024
Trauma rep
Epic quests
Touch her & ☠️
Look at him & ☠️
Hidden identities
Magic, Gods and false histories
“You may be sad, but you are not broken.”
This was a really interesting read. It felt like this book was laying the groundwork for an epic quest in the next books (lots of world building), and I can’t wait to dive into it. Truly did not see one of the plot twists coming but when it happened, I was like, ohhh, THAT makes sense now!!
The cliffhanger at the end, LOVED. I can’t wait to find out who they just met!!
Epic quests
Touch her & ☠️
Look at him & ☠️
Hidden identities
Magic, Gods and false histories
“You may be sad, but you are not broken.”
This was a really interesting read. It felt like this book was laying the groundwork for an epic quest in the next books (lots of world building), and I can’t wait to dive into it. Truly did not see one of the plot twists coming but when it happened, I was like, ohhh, THAT makes sense now!!
The cliffhanger at the end, LOVED. I can’t wait to find out who they just met!!
October 9, 2024
To Scale the Emerald Mountain is a phenomenal debut novel that fantasy readers will not want to miss! This book is full of twists and turns, both between the plot and the characters, that will keep you invested and excited. And one particualr plot twist that will boggle the brain and have you speed reading for an explanation. Lindsey has cultivated characters that are easy to love as well as hate. She has written a spin on fantasy that keeps it fantastical while also having these moments of reliability, something that makes TSEM unique. Ellya's journey through out this novel is heartwrenching but beautiful. Seeing a strong and powerful female character come into her own without apologies is exactly what being a woman should be about. And if all that wasn't enough to draw you in, the MMC will. If you love a man obsessed, that is a cinnamon role of a green flag, charming, caring and beautiful, then this is the novel for you.
Lindsey Willingham cracked the mold of what an author can achieve with their first novel. Her detailed work and care for this book come across stunningly on the page. This world that Lindsey built has laid the foundation of what is sure to be an epic romantic fantasy series. I was so happy to receive an ARC for this book and cannot wait to see Lindsey's writing career grow from here.
Lindsey Willingham cracked the mold of what an author can achieve with their first novel. Her detailed work and care for this book come across stunningly on the page. This world that Lindsey built has laid the foundation of what is sure to be an epic romantic fantasy series. I was so happy to receive an ARC for this book and cannot wait to see Lindsey's writing career grow from here.
December 23, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I finally finished my very first ARC (thank you again Lindsey)!
To Scale the Emerald Mountain follows our main character Ellya. You follow her along her journey of self exploration, learning how to handle and deal with her trauma, all the while following a suspenseful quest with Gods, lore, and more. This is the first book in the Willowbane Saga, and I cannot be more excited to see where the next book takes us.
The twists, the turns, the absolutely SAVAGE MMC, with this whole you touch her you 💀 energy. And on top of that, a FMC with a look at him you 💀 vibe.
Witnessing and following along Ellya’s mental health journey was such a beautiful thing to experience. It was raw and portrayed so beautifully.
The plot twists blew my mind and had my jaw on the FLOOR. I did not see them coming at all, and were so fun to experience. Spice was at a good 🌶️🌶️/5, and I’m hoping there’s A LOT more where it came from, as it was 🤌🏼
Do yourself a favor, and add this to your TBR, you will not be disappointed. It comes out to the public on November 5th, 2024!!
I finally finished my very first ARC (thank you again Lindsey)!
To Scale the Emerald Mountain follows our main character Ellya. You follow her along her journey of self exploration, learning how to handle and deal with her trauma, all the while following a suspenseful quest with Gods, lore, and more. This is the first book in the Willowbane Saga, and I cannot be more excited to see where the next book takes us.
The twists, the turns, the absolutely SAVAGE MMC, with this whole you touch her you 💀 energy. And on top of that, a FMC with a look at him you 💀 vibe.
Witnessing and following along Ellya’s mental health journey was such a beautiful thing to experience. It was raw and portrayed so beautifully.
The plot twists blew my mind and had my jaw on the FLOOR. I did not see them coming at all, and were so fun to experience. Spice was at a good 🌶️🌶️/5, and I’m hoping there’s A LOT more where it came from, as it was 🤌🏼
Do yourself a favor, and add this to your TBR, you will not be disappointed. It comes out to the public on November 5th, 2024!!
October 25, 2024
Thank you so much for the eARC, Lindsey!
Review to come later when I collect my thoughts but oh my god I loved this book
In true me fashion I completely forgot to come back and review and now it’s been too long *sigh* however I do remember that I just absolutely loved it so much. This book is truly a journey and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the second book.
Review to come later when I collect my thoughts but oh my god I loved this book
In true me fashion I completely forgot to come back and review and now it’s been too long *sigh* however I do remember that I just absolutely loved it so much. This book is truly a journey and I can’t wait to see what comes next in the second book.
February 24, 2025
4,5 ⭐️
This book was so much exciting.
The plot twist ?!
Did not see that coming
I want to keep it spoiler free so I won't say much more.
This book is a character build up for the story to continue in the following books. The development is amazing and the struggles are so well written. And the ending is something that makes me won't to continue this series 10000%
This book was so much exciting.
The plot twist ?!
Did not see that coming
I want to keep it spoiler free so I won't say much more.
This book is a character build up for the story to continue in the following books. The development is amazing and the struggles are so well written. And the ending is something that makes me won't to continue this series 10000%
November 27, 2025
DNF at 25%.
There was a host of issues with this book and I just couldn’t find anything to like about it.
If the writing had been better I could have perhaps overlooked some of the other flaws but I just can’t justify reading that many pages of purple prose, bad dialogue, overdone tropes, flat characters, lack of tension, slow pacing, clunky exposition and flimsy word building.
There was a host of issues with this book and I just couldn’t find anything to like about it.
If the writing had been better I could have perhaps overlooked some of the other flaws but I just can’t justify reading that many pages of purple prose, bad dialogue, overdone tropes, flat characters, lack of tension, slow pacing, clunky exposition and flimsy word building.
January 6, 2025
Dnf... Elly has the emotional intelligence of a 5 year old
August 31, 2025
I was off-put by the purple prose. DNF almost immediately.
April 11, 2025
“Desperate people often do barbaric things.”
And in this dark, mythic fantasy, everyone is desperate and a little unhinged 👀
We meet Ellya in a dungeon, memory wiped clean, survival instincts fully intact. She’s sharp, snarky, and kind of a bitch. After escaping with the help of the mysterious Locane, the story dives into a richly built world full of long-buried secrets, god-touched gems, and slowly unraveling truths.
I’ll be honest, this book starts out a bit confusing. There's heavy world-building up front, but stick with it. At around the 30% mark, it clicks, and suddenly I was fully immersed. The pacing ramps up fast, the twists hit hard, and nothing is quite as it seems. I was tricked more than once!
The characters? Morally gray... Black? No one is totally good or evil. They’re all just doing what they can in a crumbling world built on lies. I still don’t know who I’m supposed to be rooting for but that’s half the fun.
As the story progresses, so does Ellya’s journey of self-discovery, healing, and uncovering her true role in the larger divine conflict. Add in a glittering desert city, prophetic visions, deep magic, and a slow-burn romance that heats up big time in the second half, and you’ve got a fantasy that’s as emotionally compelling as it is action-packed.
Willingham’s prose paints a world that’s both lush and dangerous. I’m obsessed with how the setting feels mythic and fresh, while the emotional stakes stay grounded and raw.
If you love:
✨ Amnesia arcs & lost identities
✨ Morally ambiguous characters
✨ Slow-burn to explosive payoff
✨ Spice & prophecy & divine artifacts
✨ Worlds where you’re not sure who to trust 👀
Then you need to climb this mountain.
This book lays an excellent foundation for the rest of the Willowbane Saga, and I can’t wait for book two (To Sail the Sapphire Sea) to see where Ellya’s journey takes her next. Lindsey Willingham is an indie author worth keeping your eye on, as this story is a gem (pun intended).
And in this dark, mythic fantasy, everyone is desperate and a little unhinged 👀
We meet Ellya in a dungeon, memory wiped clean, survival instincts fully intact. She’s sharp, snarky, and kind of a bitch. After escaping with the help of the mysterious Locane, the story dives into a richly built world full of long-buried secrets, god-touched gems, and slowly unraveling truths.
I’ll be honest, this book starts out a bit confusing. There's heavy world-building up front, but stick with it. At around the 30% mark, it clicks, and suddenly I was fully immersed. The pacing ramps up fast, the twists hit hard, and nothing is quite as it seems. I was tricked more than once!
The characters? Morally gray... Black? No one is totally good or evil. They’re all just doing what they can in a crumbling world built on lies. I still don’t know who I’m supposed to be rooting for but that’s half the fun.
As the story progresses, so does Ellya’s journey of self-discovery, healing, and uncovering her true role in the larger divine conflict. Add in a glittering desert city, prophetic visions, deep magic, and a slow-burn romance that heats up big time in the second half, and you’ve got a fantasy that’s as emotionally compelling as it is action-packed.
Willingham’s prose paints a world that’s both lush and dangerous. I’m obsessed with how the setting feels mythic and fresh, while the emotional stakes stay grounded and raw.
If you love:
✨ Amnesia arcs & lost identities
✨ Morally ambiguous characters
✨ Slow-burn to explosive payoff
✨ Spice & prophecy & divine artifacts
✨ Worlds where you’re not sure who to trust 👀
Then you need to climb this mountain.
This book lays an excellent foundation for the rest of the Willowbane Saga, and I can’t wait for book two (To Sail the Sapphire Sea) to see where Ellya’s journey takes her next. Lindsey Willingham is an indie author worth keeping your eye on, as this story is a gem (pun intended).
November 5, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
💚 Amnesia
💚 Age Gap
💚 Fated Mates
💚 Dual POV
💚 Trauma rep
💚 Self Discovery
💚 Slow Burn
💚 Steamy Tension
💚 Touch her and 💀
⚠️Read the Trigger Warnings!!⚠️
I found this story of self-discovery, healing from trauma, and coming of age deeply moving and I really enjoyed it. Ellya's journey was long and painful, and I felt for her as she fought her internal and external battles. At times, I was cheering her on, and other times, I pleaded with her to let go of her stubborn, self-destructive tendencies and choose a different path. Her character evoked such frustration that I had to remind myself of her struggles. The representation of mental health and character development was superb. Initially, the trigger warning made me anxious, but I'm glad I persevered. Alec, with his saint-like patience, was pure perfection.
AND THE PLOT TWIST!! 💥
PS: I loved Kraeston & Cescily
@authorlindseywillingham Thank you so much for this ARC!!
💚Quotes💚
“…you may be sad, but you are not broken.”
“I spent the last months trying to remember who I am, and now that I do, I wish I could forget.”
“I am yours, in this life and the next.”
"It always amazes me the pretty lies people are so willing to believe simply because they've heard them enough."
"There is nothing that could ever happen to make me stop needing you more that I need the air in my lungs."
“Take what you need from me. I will give you everything I have, everything I am. My heart, my soul, all my earthly possessions. And when I have nothing left to give, I shall cut myself open and bleed at your feet while I bet you to take that from me too.”
“You told me you would beg for me, my king. Beg.”
“Just know, every time you run, I will follow you, I will find you, and I will fight for you. I will fight for you until you accept me, or until the bitter f*-ing end. Whichever comes first."
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
💚 Amnesia
💚 Age Gap
💚 Fated Mates
💚 Dual POV
💚 Trauma rep
💚 Self Discovery
💚 Slow Burn
💚 Steamy Tension
💚 Touch her and 💀
⚠️Read the Trigger Warnings!!⚠️
I found this story of self-discovery, healing from trauma, and coming of age deeply moving and I really enjoyed it. Ellya's journey was long and painful, and I felt for her as she fought her internal and external battles. At times, I was cheering her on, and other times, I pleaded with her to let go of her stubborn, self-destructive tendencies and choose a different path. Her character evoked such frustration that I had to remind myself of her struggles. The representation of mental health and character development was superb. Initially, the trigger warning made me anxious, but I'm glad I persevered. Alec, with his saint-like patience, was pure perfection.
AND THE PLOT TWIST!! 💥
PS: I loved Kraeston & Cescily
@authorlindseywillingham Thank you so much for this ARC!!
💚Quotes💚
“…you may be sad, but you are not broken.”
“I spent the last months trying to remember who I am, and now that I do, I wish I could forget.”
“I am yours, in this life and the next.”
"It always amazes me the pretty lies people are so willing to believe simply because they've heard them enough."
"There is nothing that could ever happen to make me stop needing you more that I need the air in my lungs."
“Take what you need from me. I will give you everything I have, everything I am. My heart, my soul, all my earthly possessions. And when I have nothing left to give, I shall cut myself open and bleed at your feet while I bet you to take that from me too.”
“You told me you would beg for me, my king. Beg.”
“Just know, every time you run, I will follow you, I will find you, and I will fight for you. I will fight for you until you accept me, or until the bitter f*-ing end. Whichever comes first."
October 29, 2024
Thank you x a million to Lindsey Willingham for selecting me to be a member of the To Scale the Emerald Mountain ARC team! I am so grateful for the opportunity & here is my honest review:
To Scale the Emerald Mountain is the first book in the Willowbane Saga. Ellya wakes up in a dungeon with no recollection of who she is or why she is there. She is able to escape & meets Locane, a mysterious, grumpy, yet seemingly familiar man who agrees to help her reach safety. Along her journey with Locane, she begins having “sights” where she remembers bits of her life.
TSTEM had beautiful writing and I loved every bit of character development and the twists and turns Willingham used to redirect the story. Ellya’s character was at times a bit annoying, but I also recognized that she was struggling with remembering who she was & who she could trust. I loved Locane’s character & look forward to seeing more of him in book 2. And Alec was simply DELICIOUS! He has officially been added to my list of fictional boyfriends. His love, kindness, and devotion to Ellya made me swoon!
To bring my 4⭐️ review to a 5, I needed a little more movement in the book (stayed primarily in the safe house + castle). However, I appreciate the world-building & setting up the lore for the Willowbane Saga, and I can feel the adventure coming… which has me SO EXCITED!
Popular tropes in TSTEM:
💚 fated mates
💚 amnesia
💚 slow burn 🔥
💚 touch her/him and die
💚 magical realm
💚 plot twists & turns you don’t see coming!
I finished TSTEM last night & I’m still reeling! I can’t wait for book 2!!
To Scale the Emerald Mountain is the first book in the Willowbane Saga. Ellya wakes up in a dungeon with no recollection of who she is or why she is there. She is able to escape & meets Locane, a mysterious, grumpy, yet seemingly familiar man who agrees to help her reach safety. Along her journey with Locane, she begins having “sights” where she remembers bits of her life.
TSTEM had beautiful writing and I loved every bit of character development and the twists and turns Willingham used to redirect the story. Ellya’s character was at times a bit annoying, but I also recognized that she was struggling with remembering who she was & who she could trust. I loved Locane’s character & look forward to seeing more of him in book 2. And Alec was simply DELICIOUS! He has officially been added to my list of fictional boyfriends. His love, kindness, and devotion to Ellya made me swoon!
To bring my 4⭐️ review to a 5, I needed a little more movement in the book (stayed primarily in the safe house + castle). However, I appreciate the world-building & setting up the lore for the Willowbane Saga, and I can feel the adventure coming… which has me SO EXCITED!
Popular tropes in TSTEM:
💚 fated mates
💚 amnesia
💚 slow burn 🔥
💚 touch her/him and die
💚 magical realm
💚 plot twists & turns you don’t see coming!
I finished TSTEM last night & I’m still reeling! I can’t wait for book 2!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2025
About To Scale the Emerald Mountain
Ellya is on the run after escaping the dungeon where she was left to rot. Uncertain of how or why she ended up in that dank cell, one thing is clear, she must escape to survive.
As she navigates the treacherous wilderness, Ellya encounters Locane, a handsome stranger who feels unnervingly familiar, even though he insists they have never met. Drawn to the inexplicable connection between them, Ellya finds herself ensconced in Locane's idyllic home, where he offers to help her recover her lost memories.
However, as fragments of her past begin to surface, Ellya realizes that Locane may not be the savior he claims to be. As he unexpectedly begins to descend into mental and physical decline, she knows that she must escape her beautiful prison before it’s too late.
After Ellya finally slips from Locane's grasp, she lands in the arms of a man who swears he is there to rescue her. Whisked away to confront the ghosts of her past, Ellya grapples with one terrifying question…Are they the monsters Locane warned her about, or could they truly be her salvation?
Tropes in To Scale the Emerald Mountain
🗡️💃Stabby FMC
🖤🤵Morally Grey MMC
🔥 Slow Burn
👉🏼 |💀Touch Them and Die
🛏️ Forced Proximity
💎🪄 Unique Magic System
🤵🍁🥇He Falls First
👴❤️👩 Age Gap (223 v 23)
♾️👫 Fated Mates with a Twist
😶🌫️ Amnesia
🧠 Mental Health Rep
My Review
"I live for you, Ellya and I will die for you every day, if that is what you need to come back to me. And if you cannot come back to me, go find someone…to drive a blade through my heart as you watch, because I would rather die than live my life without you. I have nothing to give unless it is to you."
‼️ I prefer providing spoiler-free reviews, which means that this review will be high-level.
✅ 💪 Strong FMC
✅ 🔥 He would burn the world for her
✅ 🤤 The words that come out of the MMC’s mouth!
✅ 😈 ➡️ 😇 Hoping for the villain’s redemption arc in future books!
✅ 🔀 Surprising twist ending
Ellya is on the run after escaping the dungeon where she was left to rot. Uncertain of how or why she ended up in that dank cell, one thing is clear, she must escape to survive.
As she navigates the treacherous wilderness, Ellya encounters Locane, a handsome stranger who feels unnervingly familiar, even though he insists they have never met. Drawn to the inexplicable connection between them, Ellya finds herself ensconced in Locane's idyllic home, where he offers to help her recover her lost memories.
However, as fragments of her past begin to surface, Ellya realizes that Locane may not be the savior he claims to be. As he unexpectedly begins to descend into mental and physical decline, she knows that she must escape her beautiful prison before it’s too late.
After Ellya finally slips from Locane's grasp, she lands in the arms of a man who swears he is there to rescue her. Whisked away to confront the ghosts of her past, Ellya grapples with one terrifying question…Are they the monsters Locane warned her about, or could they truly be her salvation?
Tropes in To Scale the Emerald Mountain
🗡️💃Stabby FMC
🖤🤵Morally Grey MMC
🔥 Slow Burn
👉🏼 |💀Touch Them and Die
🛏️ Forced Proximity
💎🪄 Unique Magic System
🤵🍁🥇He Falls First
👴❤️👩 Age Gap (223 v 23)
♾️👫 Fated Mates with a Twist
😶🌫️ Amnesia
🧠 Mental Health Rep
My Review
"I live for you, Ellya and I will die for you every day, if that is what you need to come back to me. And if you cannot come back to me, go find someone…to drive a blade through my heart as you watch, because I would rather die than live my life without you. I have nothing to give unless it is to you."
‼️ I prefer providing spoiler-free reviews, which means that this review will be high-level.
✅ 💪 Strong FMC
✅ 🔥 He would burn the world for her
✅ 🤤 The words that come out of the MMC’s mouth!
✅ 😈 ➡️ 😇 Hoping for the villain’s redemption arc in future books!
✅ 🔀 Surprising twist ending
October 31, 2024
Overall I really enjoyed this book! The writing style is great with amazing details, world building & realistic characters. I wasn’t really vibing with the main character, Ellya, in the beginning but I definitely liked her in the end, she had great character development. The action kept me on my toes & I did not see any of the plot twists coming! I also loved all the tropes that I have listed in my picture, they fit the story perfectly! I am always a sucker for the fated mates trope and this DID NOT disappoint 😌 I also have never read a book with amnesia but ended up really loving that aspect and I felt it added the right amount of buildup in the story. I am definitely looking forward to book 2!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this arc!
Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read this arc!
January 11, 2025
Wow. This story gripped me from the beginning and never let go!!! This is such an amazing story with such an important message. This does have some dark themes so of course check your triggers but I literally read this in a day because I couldn’t stop. The writing puts you in each characters mind so well that you completely understand their motivations and actions and sympathize with them! I can’t tell you the last time I cried in a romantasy because the author makes you feel so deeply the emotion of her characters. Absolutely a must read.
September 7, 2024
This book blew me away— it captured me and wouldn’t let me go. I finished all 600 pages in 2 days because i couldn’t put it down once i began, this book is full of emotions and plot twists that you just don’t see coming. Everything about their heart wrenching relationship was DELICIOUS, this book was basically a set up for a big quest to come. i cannot wait for the next book!
April 1, 2025
I absolutely love this book ! There were a few times I actually laughed right out loud. I loved the twists and I was sucked in right from the start! The MMC and the FMC are definitely in my top 5 main characters . This is probably in my top 3 favorite books I've read in the last few years ! I loved it and will definitely reread it many times ! I can't wait for the rest of the series!
August 29, 2024
✨️To Scale the Emerald Mountain by Lindsey Willingham✨️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is my very first ARC that I read, and when I tell you that I am so glad I got the privilege to read such a wonderful gem!
You will find Ellya to be such a beautiful and brave girl. Her trauma and trials throughout this book turn her into a courageous and loving woman.
Her character is so multi-layered. It is truly beautiful to read how she overcomes such events.
I can't say much without spoiling the rest, but please know this book was amazing. It had me NOT wanting to put it down AT ALL! it was full action and heartache along with some happiness too🥰
The release date is Novemeber 5th,2024🎉🎉
Pre-Orders are live now!
What to expect:
•Magic
•Fated Mates
•SA
•Betrayel
•Plot twist (ending)
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This is my very first ARC that I read, and when I tell you that I am so glad I got the privilege to read such a wonderful gem!
You will find Ellya to be such a beautiful and brave girl. Her trauma and trials throughout this book turn her into a courageous and loving woman.
Her character is so multi-layered. It is truly beautiful to read how she overcomes such events.
I can't say much without spoiling the rest, but please know this book was amazing. It had me NOT wanting to put it down AT ALL! it was full action and heartache along with some happiness too🥰
The release date is Novemeber 5th,2024🎉🎉
Pre-Orders are live now!
What to expect:
•Magic
•Fated Mates
•SA
•Betrayel
•Plot twist (ending)
August 27, 2024
I loved this story! It had my favorite trope: fated mates!
The mysterious beginning to the book got me hooked and I couldn’t put the book down! There author keeps you guessing as Ellya works to figure out who she is. Where did she come from? What’s wrong with her memories? Where did this mysterious man Locane come from and what does he want with me?
I also loved that this story had multiple POV because I love getting to glimpse the emotional side of each scene from all the characters. It really helps to build there arc and get invested in them.
Ellya is such a badass from the beginning despite all the trauma she endures. The book did a fabulous job handling her trauma and her recovery as well.
I can’t wait for book 2! Highly recommend!
The mysterious beginning to the book got me hooked and I couldn’t put the book down! There author keeps you guessing as Ellya works to figure out who she is. Where did she come from? What’s wrong with her memories? Where did this mysterious man Locane come from and what does he want with me?
I also loved that this story had multiple POV because I love getting to glimpse the emotional side of each scene from all the characters. It really helps to build there arc and get invested in them.
Ellya is such a badass from the beginning despite all the trauma she endures. The book did a fabulous job handling her trauma and her recovery as well.
I can’t wait for book 2! Highly recommend!
August 27, 2025
I barely limped through this book. Only finished because the first half was so good. The book starts out with Ellya breaking out of a dungeon, escaping with the help of a stranger who seems to want to help but also doesn’t, and then being whisked into a protective bubble so that she can hone her magical powers. Loved everything in part one and half of part two. The second half of part two not only tanked, but took a complete nosedive into nothingness. By part three I was speed-reading my way through hoping it was going to turn back around into the great book I started with.
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