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The Threadmender Chronicles #1
House of Blight
The first novel in an eerie, darkly creative, and romantic new gothic fantasy duology from Maxym M. Martineau, for readers of Sarah J. Maas and Rachel Gillig.
Edira Brillwyn is a threadmender. She holds a rare, lifesaving power that can cure disease and heal injuries in the blink of an eye. But magic always comes with a cost, and saving anyone sacrifices a sliver of her own life. She’s always kept her abilities hidden…until the powerful Fernglove family discovers her secret.
The Ferngloves are charming and beautiful, possess powerful magic, and don’t take no for an answer—especially Orin, the head of these ruling elites. When Edira’s brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, and an illness too strong for her to heal them both—Orin offers to help. Together at his estate they’ll research a cure while Orin slows their sickness and Edira hones her magic. His kindness and honesty surprises Edira, as does her undeniable attraction to him.
But the other Ferngloves are suspicious of her power and may be more dangerous than the ever-present disease. The longer Edira stays within the confines of the Manor, the more the family’s pristine exterior begins to crack—until Edira discovers a terrifying secret and must choose who she can save and at what cost…
Edira Brillwyn is a threadmender. She holds a rare, lifesaving power that can cure disease and heal injuries in the blink of an eye. But magic always comes with a cost, and saving anyone sacrifices a sliver of her own life. She’s always kept her abilities hidden…until the powerful Fernglove family discovers her secret.
The Ferngloves are charming and beautiful, possess powerful magic, and don’t take no for an answer—especially Orin, the head of these ruling elites. When Edira’s brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, and an illness too strong for her to heal them both—Orin offers to help. Together at his estate they’ll research a cure while Orin slows their sickness and Edira hones her magic. His kindness and honesty surprises Edira, as does her undeniable attraction to him.
But the other Ferngloves are suspicious of her power and may be more dangerous than the ever-present disease. The longer Edira stays within the confines of the Manor, the more the family’s pristine exterior begins to crack—until Edira discovers a terrifying secret and must choose who she can save and at what cost…
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 8, 2025
524 people are currently reading
48839 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,348 reviews
May 4, 2025
✩ 4 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ Love Triangle
➼ Training Scenes
➼ Healing Magic
➼ Beast Forms
➼ Dark Secrets
➼ Feminine Rage
➼ Complex Family Dynamics
➼ Gothic Fantasy
➼ First Person POV
I’m generally not that enthralled by gothic tales, but this was one of the best I’ve read! Edira was a strong female lead, doing her best to navigate the secrets of the Fernglove family as she worked to develop her powers. The selfless characters are always my favorite and all of Edira’s choices were made with her brothers in mind. At first glance the castle seems ethereal and pristine, but things are not what they seem. Bit by bit, she slowly peels back the layers and uncovers the truth.
The entire cast of characters were very well developed and I was intrigued from the start by both the magic system and the plot. The gothic vibes of Fernglove Manor were expertly crafted and this was one of the rare instances that I felt the love triangle actually furthered and benefitted the plot. I did draw some parallels to other popular books, but I would still describe this as a very unique story.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a gothic tale and maybe even some like me who don’t! I’m excited to read book two as I expect it to deliver some delicious slow burn tension. 🤌🏻 Add this one to your TBR friends!
Thank you to Libro.FM for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-Read: I got the ALC! Let’s see if I can finish it and write a review before it comes out on the 8th. 😅
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
What to Expect:
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ Love Triangle
➼ Training Scenes
➼ Healing Magic
➼ Beast Forms
➼ Dark Secrets
➼ Feminine Rage
➼ Complex Family Dynamics
➼ Gothic Fantasy
➼ First Person POV
I’m generally not that enthralled by gothic tales, but this was one of the best I’ve read! Edira was a strong female lead, doing her best to navigate the secrets of the Fernglove family as she worked to develop her powers. The selfless characters are always my favorite and all of Edira’s choices were made with her brothers in mind. At first glance the castle seems ethereal and pristine, but things are not what they seem. Bit by bit, she slowly peels back the layers and uncovers the truth.
The entire cast of characters were very well developed and I was intrigued from the start by both the magic system and the plot. The gothic vibes of Fernglove Manor were expertly crafted and this was one of the rare instances that I felt the love triangle actually furthered and benefitted the plot. I did draw some parallels to other popular books, but I would still describe this as a very unique story.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a gothic tale and maybe even some like me who don’t! I’m excited to read book two as I expect it to deliver some delicious slow burn tension. 🤌🏻 Add this one to your TBR friends!
Thank you to Libro.FM for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-Read: I got the ALC! Let’s see if I can finish it and write a review before it comes out on the 8th. 😅
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
September 9, 2025
Are you ready to dive into a story that’s going to grab you by the heart and not let go? Then you HAVE to check out House of Blight by Maxym M. Martineau, hitting the shelves on April 8th, 2025! 🎉
So, picture this: Edira Brillwyn is a mega talented threadmender who can heal people in the blink of an eye. Sounds amazing, right? 🥹 But wait—every time she uses her magic, she gives up a bit of her own life. Yikes! 😱 Just when she thinks she can keep her secret safe, the charmingly sinister Fernglove family catches wind of her powers.
Now, let’s talk about the drama! 🌪️ Enter Orin, the head of the Fernglove family, who offers to help when Edira’s brothers get hit hard by the blight—a nasty virus that’s got everyone in town on edge. You know what they say about fae bargains? Left with no choice but to try and save her brothers, Endira follows Orin to Fernglove manor to "train" her threadmending skills, alongside him and his brother Rorik. Only, things aren't exactly as they seem, and the The sibling rivalry between Orin and his brother Rorik is NOT all rainbows and sunshine; it’s cutthroat! Think of that tension from Rhysand and Tamlin—the air is filled with unspoken challenges and forced politeness. 😏💔
Maxym totally nails the gothic vibes, immersing us in a magical world that feels both unique and eerie. 🖤✨ Every detail about the blight is nail-biting, and I found myself gasping as the characters’ stories unfolded. Edira’s bravery is seriously inspiring as she tackles not just her brothers’ sickness but also the dark secrets lurking in the Fernglove manor!
Honestly, I couldn’t put this book down! 🙌 The way Edira wrestles with her healing power—knowing that each time she saves someone, it costs her dearly—is so intense. You will feel every ounce of her struggle! And let’s not forget the chemistry between her and Orin; it’s deliciously complicated! 💖🔥
If you’re into strong, fierce heroines and a plot packed with suspense and intrigue, then House of Blight is your next favorite read. I’m already planning to shout about it from the rooftops on all my platforms! 📣
A huge shoutout to NetGalley, Maxym M. Martineau, and Avon and Harper Voyager for giving me an eARC! Seriously, set your reminders for this one because you won’t want to miss it! 🗓️✨ Happy reading, everyone! 💕📖
So, picture this: Edira Brillwyn is a mega talented threadmender who can heal people in the blink of an eye. Sounds amazing, right? 🥹 But wait—every time she uses her magic, she gives up a bit of her own life. Yikes! 😱 Just when she thinks she can keep her secret safe, the charmingly sinister Fernglove family catches wind of her powers.
Now, let’s talk about the drama! 🌪️ Enter Orin, the head of the Fernglove family, who offers to help when Edira’s brothers get hit hard by the blight—a nasty virus that’s got everyone in town on edge. You know what they say about fae bargains? Left with no choice but to try and save her brothers, Endira follows Orin to Fernglove manor to "train" her threadmending skills, alongside him and his brother Rorik. Only, things aren't exactly as they seem, and the The sibling rivalry between Orin and his brother Rorik is NOT all rainbows and sunshine; it’s cutthroat! Think of that tension from Rhysand and Tamlin—the air is filled with unspoken challenges and forced politeness. 😏💔
Maxym totally nails the gothic vibes, immersing us in a magical world that feels both unique and eerie. 🖤✨ Every detail about the blight is nail-biting, and I found myself gasping as the characters’ stories unfolded. Edira’s bravery is seriously inspiring as she tackles not just her brothers’ sickness but also the dark secrets lurking in the Fernglove manor!
Honestly, I couldn’t put this book down! 🙌 The way Edira wrestles with her healing power—knowing that each time she saves someone, it costs her dearly—is so intense. You will feel every ounce of her struggle! And let’s not forget the chemistry between her and Orin; it’s deliciously complicated! 💖🔥
If you’re into strong, fierce heroines and a plot packed with suspense and intrigue, then House of Blight is your next favorite read. I’m already planning to shout about it from the rooftops on all my platforms! 📣
A huge shoutout to NetGalley, Maxym M. Martineau, and Avon and Harper Voyager for giving me an eARC! Seriously, set your reminders for this one because you won’t want to miss it! 🗓️✨ Happy reading, everyone! 💕📖
February 26, 2025
First off, thanks NetGalley for the arc!
It's a duology
I'm halfway through and thinking: how do you choose between them...
Everything she did, she did it for her family.
I liked the style from the get-go, it's light but well-written, you can tell a lot of effort went into it.
The atmosphere is wow, and the family's a real crazy house. Reminded me of the family in "A Winter's Promise," but at least some of them turned out good in the end.
By the end, I was shouting, "How could you trust them?"
Then I realized I'm kinda like that too, so I get her.
I loved how the Fernglove family's magic hides someone with wings, horns, and tails.
By the end, the plot had me hooked; I couldn't sit still!
I felt a bit detached from the characters, but that's just me.
Can't wait for part two!
A girl with the magical power to heal at the cost of her own life threads, a family needing healing, brothers who are infected—everyone has the same goal, but there are always sacrifices. People can be toxic, no one to trust, but feelings will lead to decisions.
🪲Dark fantasy with romance
🪲From hate to love
🪲Forced proximity
🪲Secrets and intrigue
🪲Healer
🪲1st POV
🪲Gothic castle
2🌶
⭐️For emotions: 4.5/5
It's a duology
I'm halfway through and thinking: how do you choose between them...
Everything she did, she did it for her family.
I liked the style from the get-go, it's light but well-written, you can tell a lot of effort went into it.
The atmosphere is wow, and the family's a real crazy house. Reminded me of the family in "A Winter's Promise," but at least some of them turned out good in the end.
By the end, I was shouting, "How could you trust them?"
Then I realized I'm kinda like that too, so I get her.
I loved how the Fernglove family's magic hides someone with wings, horns, and tails.
By the end, the plot had me hooked; I couldn't sit still!
I felt a bit detached from the characters, but that's just me.
Can't wait for part two!
A girl with the magical power to heal at the cost of her own life threads, a family needing healing, brothers who are infected—everyone has the same goal, but there are always sacrifices. People can be toxic, no one to trust, but feelings will lead to decisions.
🪲Dark fantasy with romance
🪲From hate to love
🪲Forced proximity
🪲Secrets and intrigue
🪲Healer
🪲1st POV
🪲Gothic castle
2🌶
⭐️For emotions: 4.5/5
November 6, 2024
I FINALLY got to finish this amazing book! Had life not interfered it would have likely been a 1-2 day read.
I absolutely loved this story from the very first pages of the prologue to the last. It’s book one in a brand new series (No real cliff hanger so you’re good!) following a young woman who has already been through hell. Our FMC is living in a small village as an apothecary in a world where a disease is rampant. And one called blight it’s a constant threat with no cure. It took her parents, family, friends and is about to take her brothers when she makes a life changing decision to use her forbidden powers to attempt to save them.
She has the ability to heal *almost* any ailment but it costs her time. She loses a bit of her life every time she heals with her power and was told never to use it.
When her brothers suddenly contract blight she sees the entirety of her world dying before her and the prepares to heal them. No healer like her has ever been successful and she would likely die trying, but before she can, a fae lord who oversees their lands intervenes and convinces her to work for him and attempt to find a cure for the blight and save her brothers.
The fae of the land are as beautiful and flawless as ever. They’re superior in every way, selfish and conceded. But when this lord made her an airtight deal promising her services would only extend to curing one fae, then she would be free, she couldn’t say no. Her brothers were held in a magical stasis while she researched and tried to find a way to cure the blight.
Little did she know there were so many layers of secrets to this disease, house, and residents. And she may not make it out alive.
I absolutely loved this story from the very first pages of the prologue to the last. It’s book one in a brand new series (No real cliff hanger so you’re good!) following a young woman who has already been through hell. Our FMC is living in a small village as an apothecary in a world where a disease is rampant. And one called blight it’s a constant threat with no cure. It took her parents, family, friends and is about to take her brothers when she makes a life changing decision to use her forbidden powers to attempt to save them.
She has the ability to heal *almost* any ailment but it costs her time. She loses a bit of her life every time she heals with her power and was told never to use it.
When her brothers suddenly contract blight she sees the entirety of her world dying before her and the prepares to heal them. No healer like her has ever been successful and she would likely die trying, but before she can, a fae lord who oversees their lands intervenes and convinces her to work for him and attempt to find a cure for the blight and save her brothers.
The fae of the land are as beautiful and flawless as ever. They’re superior in every way, selfish and conceded. But when this lord made her an airtight deal promising her services would only extend to curing one fae, then she would be free, she couldn’t say no. Her brothers were held in a magical stasis while she researched and tried to find a way to cure the blight.
Little did she know there were so many layers of secrets to this disease, house, and residents. And she may not make it out alive.
October 3, 2025
I'm just as surprised as everyone else. This was a lot better than what I expected. Martineau did a wonderful job capturing this dark, gothic atmosphere while creating dynamic characters, world, and plot!
House of Blight was an unexpected read for me. I've heard quite a bit about it online; however, I think that my expectations of popular fantasy romance books are typically a little low. Martineau proved me wrong and had me completely and totally captivated by the premise of this book and Edira as a main character. The love she has for her family, her brothers is beautifully woven into the context of the story. The decisions she makes solely depends on the impact it will have on them. I love when strong family ties are exhibited in fantasy books. Additionally, the magic system in this was both fun and unique. The idea that Edira is a threader who is highly sought after by the Ferngloves added tension and intrigue to the plot. There are layers to the reveals that lead to more complicated features of the magic system. Unfortunately, like other readers, I'm not a huge fan of either of the male leads; HOWEVER, the plot twist at the end had me holleringggg! It was completely and totally unexpected and it makes me extremely excited to see where the rest of the series will lead in the future. Overall, this was a pleasant surprise, and I'm happy that I gave it chance.
House of Blight was an unexpected read for me. I've heard quite a bit about it online; however, I think that my expectations of popular fantasy romance books are typically a little low. Martineau proved me wrong and had me completely and totally captivated by the premise of this book and Edira as a main character. The love she has for her family, her brothers is beautifully woven into the context of the story. The decisions she makes solely depends on the impact it will have on them. I love when strong family ties are exhibited in fantasy books. Additionally, the magic system in this was both fun and unique. The idea that Edira is a threader who is highly sought after by the Ferngloves added tension and intrigue to the plot. There are layers to the reveals that lead to more complicated features of the magic system. Unfortunately, like other readers, I'm not a huge fan of either of the male leads; HOWEVER, the plot twist at the end had me holleringggg! It was completely and totally unexpected and it makes me extremely excited to see where the rest of the series will lead in the future. Overall, this was a pleasant surprise, and I'm happy that I gave it chance.
July 5, 2025
˚｡ ⋆୨ “The only pain I'd ever intentionally inflict on you is the agony of making you wait to feel the pleasure of release.” ୧⋆ ˚｡
꒰ ✨⋆.˚🦋༘⋆🐞☠︎︎.˚🏰 ꒱
╰┈➤1 star: dnf at 40% (130 pages)
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Started: 4/29/25
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ DNF: 5/3/25
𝓐𝓽 𝓪 𝓰𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮:
❤︎ Gothic romantasy duology with single POV
✨ Forced proximity and love triangle - which brother?
🦋 Healing magic and deadly diseases
🐞 Beastly forms and mothlike companion
🏰 Sprawling gothic estate with dark secrets
𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂:
Edira Brillwyn is a threadmender. She holds a rare, lifesaving power that can cure disease and heal injuries in the blink of an eye. But magic always comes with a cost, and saving anyone sacrifices a sliver of her own life. She’s always kept her abilities hidden…until the powerful Fernglove family discovers her secret.
The Ferngloves are charming and beautiful, possess powerful magic, and don’t take no for an answer—especially Orin, the head of these ruling elites. When Edira’s brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, and an illness too strong for her to heal them both—Orin offers to help. Together at his estate, they’ll research a cure while Orin slows their sickness and Edira hones her magic. His kindness and honesty surprise Edira, as does her undeniable attraction to him.
But the other Ferngloves are suspicious of her power and may be more dangerous than the ever-present disease. The longer Edira stays within the confines of the Manor, the more the family’s pristine exterior begins to crack—until Edira discovers a terrifying secret and must choose who she can save and at what cost…
────⋆.˚ ✩ ⋆˙⟡────
𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀:
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ To preface this, I don't typically DNF books. I can usually power through any novel no matter how much I dislike it. I promised myself to DNF more books this year, so here we are. I made it to May ladies and gentlemen.
To start, this wasn't terrible. It actually had a decent premise, and the first few chapters intrigued me. I've seen a few people talk about this book and genuinely was excited to read it, so it pains me to DNF it. The plot and pace weren't picking up and I found myself bored and indifferent to the characters. I usually do most of my reading in the evening, and I simply wasn't excited to pick it up and read. I kept scrolling on TikTok or watching TV, which is very unlike me.
I made it 40%, which I thought was generous and plenty of time to see how the story would progress. I just didn't care anymore ughhh. The characters were so flat and the magical system was a bit confusing with the Evers. The setting did not seem gothic AT ALL. I kept seeing people compare it to One Dark Window, and I don't see it!
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
╰┈➤ 𝓑𝓸𝓽𝓽𝓸𝓶-𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓮:
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Overwhelmingly dull and uninspired. Don't be fooled by the amazing prologue because it goes downhill thereafter. Flat characters and clunky writing make this difficult to power through. Not worth the $15 kindle price.
꒰ ✨⋆.˚🦋༘⋆🐞☠︎︎.˚🏰 ꒱
╰┈➤1 star: dnf at 40% (130 pages)
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Started: 4/29/25
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ DNF: 5/3/25
𝓐𝓽 𝓪 𝓰𝓵𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮:
❤︎ Gothic romantasy duology with single POV
✨ Forced proximity and love triangle - which brother?
🦋 Healing magic and deadly diseases
🐞 Beastly forms and mothlike companion
🏰 Sprawling gothic estate with dark secrets
𝓢𝓾𝓶𝓶𝓪𝓻𝔂:
Edira Brillwyn is a threadmender. She holds a rare, lifesaving power that can cure disease and heal injuries in the blink of an eye. But magic always comes with a cost, and saving anyone sacrifices a sliver of her own life. She’s always kept her abilities hidden…until the powerful Fernglove family discovers her secret.
The Ferngloves are charming and beautiful, possess powerful magic, and don’t take no for an answer—especially Orin, the head of these ruling elites. When Edira’s brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, and an illness too strong for her to heal them both—Orin offers to help. Together at his estate, they’ll research a cure while Orin slows their sickness and Edira hones her magic. His kindness and honesty surprise Edira, as does her undeniable attraction to him.
But the other Ferngloves are suspicious of her power and may be more dangerous than the ever-present disease. The longer Edira stays within the confines of the Manor, the more the family’s pristine exterior begins to crack—until Edira discovers a terrifying secret and must choose who she can save and at what cost…
────⋆.˚ ✩ ⋆˙⟡────
𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀:
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ To preface this, I don't typically DNF books. I can usually power through any novel no matter how much I dislike it. I promised myself to DNF more books this year, so here we are. I made it to May ladies and gentlemen.
To start, this wasn't terrible. It actually had a decent premise, and the first few chapters intrigued me. I've seen a few people talk about this book and genuinely was excited to read it, so it pains me to DNF it. The plot and pace weren't picking up and I found myself bored and indifferent to the characters. I usually do most of my reading in the evening, and I simply wasn't excited to pick it up and read. I kept scrolling on TikTok or watching TV, which is very unlike me.
I made it 40%, which I thought was generous and plenty of time to see how the story would progress. I just didn't care anymore ughhh. The characters were so flat and the magical system was a bit confusing with the Evers. The setting did not seem gothic AT ALL. I kept seeing people compare it to One Dark Window, and I don't see it!
─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───
╰┈➤ 𝓑𝓸𝓽𝓽𝓸𝓶-𝓵𝓲𝓷𝓮:
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Overwhelmingly dull and uninspired. Don't be fooled by the amazing prologue because it goes downhill thereafter. Flat characters and clunky writing make this difficult to power through. Not worth the $15 kindle price.
March 26, 2025
This was such a fantastic and gorgeous read! I went in without any expectations and ended up really enjoying it. It’s a gothic romantasy with eerie, vivid worldbuilding and a cool magic system based on equal exchange. The atmospheric vibes were slightly reminiscent of One Dark Window, Belladonna, and Cruel Prince.
Edira is a threadmender who can heal injuries and diseases by mending the “soul”-like threads of the afflicted, at the cost of her lifespan. When she risks using her magic on her brothers who get sick with blight (a deadly and incurable disease), she gets caught by an Ever of the Fernglove family. Under certain circumstances, she then has to work for them in their home to research and find a cure to blight.
The book has a slow start but it picks up once she meets the dysfunctional family of Fernglove House. Evers are a similar to faeries in this book, but I love how the author set up the worldbuilding and their magic system to give her own spin on it. The worldbuilding could still use some work in showcasing the abilities of Evers and their lore, but I hope it’s something that will improve in the next book.
I liked Edira’s character and how she was so determined and caring, yet sassy and fierce in her beliefs. She had a few frustrating and naive moments but i can’t really blame her, considering everything she’s been through.
And the family members of Fernglove house were all very interesting! I really liked Edira’s relationships with them as she constantly questions their motives and intentions that lead to her discovering a very big secret. Also shoutout to Ywena, Edira’s adorable moth companion! 🥰 She didn’t have a ton of page time and was more of a silent background “character”, but I would love to see Ywena have a more involved role in the next book.
The romance was also super fun and I loved the banter! I was scared of a potential love triangle at first, but it was obvious later on that it’s not a triangle at all. Don’t want to give away any spoilers as to who, but the slowburn chemistry between Edira and a certain character was so satisfying and I need more of these two ASAP🙂↕️The existence of an insect daddy MMC (hear me out, I swear it’s not as weird as it sounds and dont let it deter you) genuinely was a first for me.
The plot itself was well paced for most of the book. The twist was very foreshadowed if you read between the lines but it was exciting to see how things took a turn by the end. It doesn’t have a cliffhanger, but the ending definitely hints at what book 2 is about. Also, im hoping the romance develops even more because it had so much potential with that surprise angst🤭
Thank you The Nerd Fam and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Edira is a threadmender who can heal injuries and diseases by mending the “soul”-like threads of the afflicted, at the cost of her lifespan. When she risks using her magic on her brothers who get sick with blight (a deadly and incurable disease), she gets caught by an Ever of the Fernglove family. Under certain circumstances, she then has to work for them in their home to research and find a cure to blight.
The book has a slow start but it picks up once she meets the dysfunctional family of Fernglove House. Evers are a similar to faeries in this book, but I love how the author set up the worldbuilding and their magic system to give her own spin on it. The worldbuilding could still use some work in showcasing the abilities of Evers and their lore, but I hope it’s something that will improve in the next book.
I liked Edira’s character and how she was so determined and caring, yet sassy and fierce in her beliefs. She had a few frustrating and naive moments but i can’t really blame her, considering everything she’s been through.
And the family members of Fernglove house were all very interesting! I really liked Edira’s relationships with them as she constantly questions their motives and intentions that lead to her discovering a very big secret. Also shoutout to Ywena, Edira’s adorable moth companion! 🥰 She didn’t have a ton of page time and was more of a silent background “character”, but I would love to see Ywena have a more involved role in the next book.
The romance was also super fun and I loved the banter! I was scared of a potential love triangle at first, but it was obvious later on that it’s not a triangle at all. Don’t want to give away any spoilers as to who, but the slowburn chemistry between Edira and a certain character was so satisfying and I need more of these two ASAP🙂↕️The existence of an insect daddy MMC (hear me out, I swear it’s not as weird as it sounds and dont let it deter you) genuinely was a first for me.
The plot itself was well paced for most of the book. The twist was very foreshadowed if you read between the lines but it was exciting to see how things took a turn by the end. It doesn’t have a cliffhanger, but the ending definitely hints at what book 2 is about. Also, im hoping the romance develops even more because it had so much potential with that surprise angst🤭
Thank you The Nerd Fam and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
June 26, 2025
This is a beautifully written story with lyrical prose. The world and its characters are vivid, bringing the narrative to life. The book possesses an eerie, darkly creative quality. Who can resist a romantic gothic fantasy? You'll be hooked right from the prologue! 🌖 This is the perfect blend of magic, romance, and darkness—the ideal "romantasy" every reader should have on their shelves.
Thank you so much, Avon and Harper Voyager, for an ARC of this book. I can't wait to read it.
Pub Date: Apr 08, 2025
**hoping to reread in future, but for now I will leave this at 4 stars.
Thank you so much, Avon and Harper Voyager, for an ARC of this book. I can't wait to read it.
Pub Date: Apr 08, 2025
**hoping to reread in future, but for now I will leave this at 4 stars.
April 19, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Plot > romance HOWEVER I will be reading book two for Rorik and his eyebrow piercing. The set up is there. The banter was there. I definitely think book two has good things in store for us
Plot > romance HOWEVER I will be reading book two for Rorik and his eyebrow piercing. The set up is there. The banter was there. I definitely think book two has good things in store for us
breathlessly-anticipating
March 23, 2025I’m SALIVATINGGHHHH- this book sounds like perfection
Praying I get the arc for this 🙏😭
Praying I get the arc for this 🙏😭
December 7, 2025
RE-READ: I re-read this book because I’m going to read the ARC of book 2 “A Manor of Decay” ASAP! 🤩 This is my usual routine before I start the next book.
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
FIRST READ: I liked the book. It begins as many fantasy books with a “healer”, however she’s not just any kind of healer, but a threadmender. There’s also a disease called “blight” which is the main plot of the book. There are families called Evers whose stories are connected to Death himself. There’s a special moth too! I think it’s an interesting story, and I really need the next book as soon as possible!
••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
FIRST READ: I liked the book. It begins as many fantasy books with a “healer”, however she’s not just any kind of healer, but a threadmender. There’s also a disease called “blight” which is the main plot of the book. There are families called Evers whose stories are connected to Death himself. There’s a special moth too! I think it’s an interesting story, and I really need the next book as soon as possible!
November 21, 2025
Lush, dark and atmospheric gothic fantasy with an interesting spin on magic and immortal beings.
This started off with a compelling and gorgeous prologue but in the end it was just a bit too descriptive for my taste. I think if you don’t mind, very atmospheric and descriptive settings you’ll enjoy this one!
Whats to love…
- dark, atmospheric, gothic
- slow burn
- forced proximity
- interesting spin on “fae”
- animal companion
- secrets and intrigue
What’s not too love…
- slower plot
- some descriptions can feel overly detailed
🌶️ - Ch 21 is the only chapter with explicit scenes, the rest are alluded to and ambiguous.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon (Harper Voyager) for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
3.5⭐️ | IG | TikTok |
This started off with a compelling and gorgeous prologue but in the end it was just a bit too descriptive for my taste. I think if you don’t mind, very atmospheric and descriptive settings you’ll enjoy this one!
Whats to love…
- dark, atmospheric, gothic
- slow burn
- forced proximity
- interesting spin on “fae”
- animal companion
- secrets and intrigue
What’s not too love…
- slower plot
- some descriptions can feel overly detailed
🌶️ - Ch 21 is the only chapter with explicit scenes, the rest are alluded to and ambiguous.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon (Harper Voyager) for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
3.5⭐️ | IG | TikTok |
April 8, 2025
A Court of Thorns and Roses and The Cruel Prince fans, do I have the book for you!
Edira hides her secret or Threadmending - her magical ability to heal by using her life essence - from the village and the immortal, powerful Evers who oversee everything.
When Edira's brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, one she cannot heal; the head of the Evers Fernglove house offers to help.
Despite Edira’s fear and hatred of the Evers, she is drawn to Orin and his dark brother.
Of course, this is very reminiscent of many other romantasies. This meant I was very aware of the plot twists and reveals, making it less tense than I think was intended.
I did love Edira - she is strong, stubborn, and loves her brothers with everything she has. She is also way too caring for her own good.
Another bonus - magic has a price!!
“Oh, Edira.” He draped one of my hands about his neck before wrapping his arm around my waist. With his free hand, he threaded our fingers together. “The only pain I’d ever intentionally inflict on you is the agony of making you wait to feel the pleasure of release.”
Who can you trust when everything is glamoured and everyone is scheming and secretive.
Oh, by the way - Orion has A TAIL!
This was addicting, but just missed the mark for me due to its predictability.
Physical Arc gifted by Titan Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
Edira hides her secret or Threadmending - her magical ability to heal by using her life essence - from the village and the immortal, powerful Evers who oversee everything.
When Edira's brothers unexpectedly contract blight—an incurable virus killing people throughout the town, one she cannot heal; the head of the Evers Fernglove house offers to help.
Despite Edira’s fear and hatred of the Evers, she is drawn to Orin and his dark brother.
Of course, this is very reminiscent of many other romantasies. This meant I was very aware of the plot twists and reveals, making it less tense than I think was intended.
I did love Edira - she is strong, stubborn, and loves her brothers with everything she has. She is also way too caring for her own good.
Another bonus - magic has a price!!
“Oh, Edira.” He draped one of my hands about his neck before wrapping his arm around my waist. With his free hand, he threaded our fingers together. “The only pain I’d ever intentionally inflict on you is the agony of making you wait to feel the pleasure of release.”
Who can you trust when everything is glamoured and everyone is scheming and secretive.
Oh, by the way - Orion has A TAIL!
This was addicting, but just missed the mark for me due to its predictability.
Physical Arc gifted by Titan Books.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
October 29, 2024
This book was gothic Romatasy perfection! I will be super shocked if this book is not trending next year on Booksta when it releases. This book centers around Edina who is a a threadmender. Threadmenders are rare magic users who can heal people, but with a huge cost. Every time they heal, they lose a bit of their life. Edina is caught using her powers to save her two brothers by Orin Fernglove, who is the head of a powerful immortal family. She is forced to make a deal with him to save them.
This book had plenty of twists and turns. The gothic Romantasy genre is seriously becoming one of my all time favs. This book was atmospheric, eerie and had creepy moments which made for a perfect spooky season read. Blight the illness her family catches, sounds horribly gross and makes perfect sense in this book setting. I really enjoyed the interactions Edina had with the Ferngloves. They are a family who puts the fun in disfunction. You really never know what any of their intentions are and I greatly enjoyed all those scenes. I also loved the descriptions of the Ferngloves magic. The details about insects was incredible and I want my own Ywena (Mothlike creature.) I can’t wait to read the second book in this duology. Solid 5 star read. Highly recommend this book.
You should read this book if you love the following tropes:
Gothic Romantasy
Magical Vows
Haunted House
Slow Burn Romance
Forced Proximity
Mothlike Creature Pet :)
Thank you so much Harper Voyager US and NetGalley for gifting me for a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book had plenty of twists and turns. The gothic Romantasy genre is seriously becoming one of my all time favs. This book was atmospheric, eerie and had creepy moments which made for a perfect spooky season read. Blight the illness her family catches, sounds horribly gross and makes perfect sense in this book setting. I really enjoyed the interactions Edina had with the Ferngloves. They are a family who puts the fun in disfunction. You really never know what any of their intentions are and I greatly enjoyed all those scenes. I also loved the descriptions of the Ferngloves magic. The details about insects was incredible and I want my own Ywena (Mothlike creature.) I can’t wait to read the second book in this duology. Solid 5 star read. Highly recommend this book.
You should read this book if you love the following tropes:
Gothic Romantasy
Magical Vows
Haunted House
Slow Burn Romance
Forced Proximity
Mothlike Creature Pet :)
Thank you so much Harper Voyager US and NetGalley for gifting me for a free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2025
House of Blight
by Maxym M. Martineau
The Threadmender Chronicles #1
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Apr 8, 2025
Avon/Harper Voyager
Fantasy
Ages: 16+
As a threadmender, each time Edira uses her gift to heal someone, her own life dwindles so she hides, because those of her village had already sold her aunt to the Ferngloves, a magically powerful family who own the mines where the men of the village work.
But when her brothers catch blight, an incurable virus, Orin Fernglove, the head of the Fernglove family discovers her secret and makes her an offer... He will use his magic to keep her brothers' illness suspended so she can find a way to cure the blight.
Whisked away to his Manor, she finds that she can not trust anyone in his family, for they all use their magic to play games, and the other families play more than games. But as time passes, Edira finds that Orin is hiding a secret.
While this started off feeling like a 'cozy romantasy' it shifted to include more of a darker tone. There was some violence, but it wasn't too gory, and the romance was predictable and had enough content to make this unsuitable for readers under sixteen.
Also predictable were the plot and the intentions of the characters. I had those and the ending guessed by the halfway mark.
Even though the characters are the typical 'oh so beautiful' BS of the genre, along with the enemies to friends to lovers trope, it's not a bad story, it moved along at a decent pace.
As to reading the next book in the series: Nah...
3 Stars
by Maxym M. Martineau
The Threadmender Chronicles #1
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Apr 8, 2025
Avon/Harper Voyager
Fantasy
Ages: 16+
As a threadmender, each time Edira uses her gift to heal someone, her own life dwindles so she hides, because those of her village had already sold her aunt to the Ferngloves, a magically powerful family who own the mines where the men of the village work.
But when her brothers catch blight, an incurable virus, Orin Fernglove, the head of the Fernglove family discovers her secret and makes her an offer... He will use his magic to keep her brothers' illness suspended so she can find a way to cure the blight.
Whisked away to his Manor, she finds that she can not trust anyone in his family, for they all use their magic to play games, and the other families play more than games. But as time passes, Edira finds that Orin is hiding a secret.
While this started off feeling like a 'cozy romantasy' it shifted to include more of a darker tone. There was some violence, but it wasn't too gory, and the romance was predictable and had enough content to make this unsuitable for readers under sixteen.
Also predictable were the plot and the intentions of the characters. I had those and the ending guessed by the halfway mark.
Even though the characters are the typical 'oh so beautiful' BS of the genre, along with the enemies to friends to lovers trope, it's not a bad story, it moved along at a decent pace.
As to reading the next book in the series: Nah...
3 Stars
May 30, 2025
This book isn't bad by any means but it felt just like everything else.
I picked it up because it was marketed as a gothic take on Romantasy and that was nowhere to be found. If you wanted to read it for that, don't even bother.
If you like reading the same kind of story because you find the most formulaic/usual aspects of the genre comforting, go ahead and read it.
It has way too many ''I've seen this film before'' moments and ''I know this bitch already'' characters for me to enjoy it.
I picked it up because it was marketed as a gothic take on Romantasy and that was nowhere to be found. If you wanted to read it for that, don't even bother.
If you like reading the same kind of story because you find the most formulaic/usual aspects of the genre comforting, go ahead and read it.
It has way too many ''I've seen this film before'' moments and ''I know this bitch already'' characters for me to enjoy it.
April 8, 2025
Crimson Peak x Love Triangle x Bugs
I’m starting to think I have a type lol. This book was such a fun ride from start to finish.
Our fmc, who has the magical ability to heal is suddenly faced with the ultimate challenge when her brothers become sick with blight—one of the only diseases her magic can’t heal.
Our fmc finds herself staying with a group of powerful Evers to help formulate a cure to save her brothers and them as well.
This book was eerie, suspenseful, and all around a spooky gothic fun time.
Also, am I finding a new love for Love Triangles!?!👀👀👀
Thank you so much Maxym, Harper Audio, and Netgalley for the arc!
I’m starting to think I have a type lol. This book was such a fun ride from start to finish.
Our fmc, who has the magical ability to heal is suddenly faced with the ultimate challenge when her brothers become sick with blight—one of the only diseases her magic can’t heal.
Our fmc finds herself staying with a group of powerful Evers to help formulate a cure to save her brothers and them as well.
This book was eerie, suspenseful, and all around a spooky gothic fun time.
Also, am I finding a new love for Love Triangles!?!👀👀👀
Thank you so much Maxym, Harper Audio, and Netgalley for the arc!
March 24, 2025
A magical dysfunctional family, a horrific disease, and a whole lot of secrets - what's not to love?
Edira is an apothecary in a village, however she has a secret magical talent that very few know about - she is a threadmender. While this can cure far more than her natural remedies, using this talent snips her life a little shorter every time, so she keeps this hidden. There is one thing that she cannot heal though: the blight which ravages her world. Her parents have already died, so when her two brothers, her entire world, contract the disease, she'll do anything to save them - even make a deal with the powerful fae family who rule over their village. The head of the household, Orin moves her to their greepy gothic castle where she works and trains with this terrifying but brilliant family to attempt to find a cure for the blight, but of course, things are never so straight forward as that!
Family drama hits differently when magic and life-or-death stakes are involved!
This book had excellent vibes - as I mentioned, gothic and creepy, but a little bit "cottagecore". The magic system was a nice touch. The characters were well-formed, aside from a couple, however it becomes clear later when they reveal more why they may have seemed more flat throughout. They certainly put the "fun" in "dysfunctional" - a quarrelling magical family is not one to be reckoned with! Ywena, a magical moth companion, is a special highlight in the story too!
I'm so torn between 4 and 5 stars here - the book instantly had me hooked, but there were parts in the middle where I just wanted it to move a little bit quicker, then the last third, I absolutely could not have put it down if I tried!
There was romance, and it was a hate to love kind of medium-slow burn, however I can't say that the slow burn was done particularly well - there were moments that felt forced and I didn't instantly feel the chemistry. There's also something of a love triangle -I wouldn't say that's a spoiler as the hints of it begin almost immediately upon interacting in more depth with the characters. There are parts of this that are cleverly done and hint towards what's to come, so I enjoyed these parts.
I'd definitely recommend this and am looking forward to the next installment - don't worry, it's not too much of a cliffhanger ending!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for a review copy of this book.
Edira is an apothecary in a village, however she has a secret magical talent that very few know about - she is a threadmender. While this can cure far more than her natural remedies, using this talent snips her life a little shorter every time, so she keeps this hidden. There is one thing that she cannot heal though: the blight which ravages her world. Her parents have already died, so when her two brothers, her entire world, contract the disease, she'll do anything to save them - even make a deal with the powerful fae family who rule over their village. The head of the household, Orin moves her to their greepy gothic castle where she works and trains with this terrifying but brilliant family to attempt to find a cure for the blight, but of course, things are never so straight forward as that!
Family drama hits differently when magic and life-or-death stakes are involved!
This book had excellent vibes - as I mentioned, gothic and creepy, but a little bit "cottagecore". The magic system was a nice touch. The characters were well-formed, aside from a couple, however it becomes clear later when they reveal more why they may have seemed more flat throughout. They certainly put the "fun" in "dysfunctional" - a quarrelling magical family is not one to be reckoned with! Ywena, a magical moth companion, is a special highlight in the story too!
I'm so torn between 4 and 5 stars here - the book instantly had me hooked, but there were parts in the middle where I just wanted it to move a little bit quicker, then the last third, I absolutely could not have put it down if I tried!
There was romance, and it was a hate to love kind of medium-slow burn, however I can't say that the slow burn was done particularly well - there were moments that felt forced and I didn't instantly feel the chemistry. There's also something of a love triangle -I wouldn't say that's a spoiler as the hints of it begin almost immediately upon interacting in more depth with the characters. There are parts of this that are cleverly done and hint towards what's to come, so I enjoyed these parts.
I'd definitely recommend this and am looking forward to the next installment - don't worry, it's not too much of a cliffhanger ending!
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and the publishers for a review copy of this book.
June 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️ unfortunately this was not good.
What started as super simple and catchy read quickly faded with how quite boring it became. The female main character, with some much “immense power” really ended up with a pea sized brain, constantly making ridiculous decisions. I liked the magic system, the little moth companion &beastly forms, the idea of this incurable & possessive illness. I didn’t like the romance—icky, forceful, poor execution.
I’m still going to read part two 😏
What started as super simple and catchy read quickly faded with how quite boring it became. The female main character, with some much “immense power” really ended up with a pea sized brain, constantly making ridiculous decisions. I liked the magic system, the little moth companion &beastly forms, the idea of this incurable & possessive illness. I didn’t like the romance—icky, forceful, poor execution.
I’m still going to read part two 😏
July 20, 2025
3 Gold Beetle Stars ⭐️
Spicy Rating: 🌶️/5
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoyed Throne of Glass or books similar to that. This gave me similar vibes or style, and if that’s your jam, this will probably be a hit!
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
In a world ravaged by a deadly sickness known as Blight, a sickness that ravages the world and quickly kills any human it touches. Edira hides her forbidden threadmending magic. After losing her parents to the disease, she became the primary caretaker to her younger brothers. One day, her brothers contract the disease, but fortuitously, Orin, the head of the local Ever Family, approaches her with a deal. He will put her brothers in a frozen state if she agrees to help him find a cure. Now she is thrust into a world of secrets, decay, ancient vows and magic. Will she be able to find a way to cure her brothers and the Blight before her magic kills her?
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Edira was an interesting character. On the one hand, she carries a deep guilt because she couldn't save her parents. She feels like she has to carry the world on her shoulders because she’s all her brothers have left. I liked that she’s curious, smart, and resourceful. She uses what she has to make remedies, cures, and tinctures, and her intelligence comes through in how she engages with her environment. But there’s also this inferiority complex because she is human, surrounded by Evers. Evers have more power and, like the name suggests, they are immortal. This creates a sharp contrast to her shortened life, especially since she loses some of it every time she uses her magic. Her magic is rooted in sacrifice. Every time she uses it, it costs her something. It’s painful, torturous even. But because she wants to help others, she’s willing to face that pain. Each time she threadmends, she believes it brings her one step closer to saving her brothers.
Now, onto the things that didn’t work for me... and again, this is purely personal preference.
Firstly, this book is 99% from Edira’s POV. We only get one brief chapter from another perspective, but it's very quick. Personally, I love getting inside other characters’ heads, even just a snippet. I think it would have added tension and depth, and maybe even some surprise twists, if we’d seen more from Orin and Rorik’s perspectives instead of having to guess.
Secondly, the tone and vibes straddled the line between YA and Adult, and I don’t think it ever fully committed to either. There are F-bombs, mature themes, and some light on-page spice, but the tropes and character dynamics felt more YA. The “chosen one” energy, the “you’re not like other girls” moments, and the entire world hinging on a single person saving it. Then there’s the love triangle, which I tend to see more in teen books, whereas in adult I’d expect a Why Choose. Add to that the fact that Edira gets flustered just because Orin looks at her while her brothers are dying and she’s trapped in a house... it felt too juvenile at times for the stakes we were dealing with.
That said, the magic system deserves serious praise. It’s one of the most unique systems I’ve ever read. I’ve read a lot of fantasy with thread witches and Fae lore, but this world takes familiar elements and twists them into something completely fresh. The worldbuilding is layered, eerie, and rich in detail. You can tell it was crafted with care. The writing itself is powerful, atmospheric, evocative, and immersive. It pulls you in and keeps you there. That’s what kept me reading and invested in the outcome, even when I struggled to connect with the characters.
I did predict the plot twist pretty early at around 60%. I was reading this as part of a read-along and even shared my theory with the others at this point, so it wasn’t exactly shocking when it played out at the end.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Romantasy
▶ Human X "Fae" Relationship
▶ Complex Worldbuilding
▶ Hidden Powers
▶ Dreaded Disease
▶ Intricate and Unique Magic System
▶ Captive/Captor
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Love Triangle
and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Winged MMC
▷ Tattoos Her
▷ Chin Lift
▷ Forehead Kisses
▷ Rolled Sleeves/Forearms
▷ Horns
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It had action, romance, drama, and truly exceptional worldbuilding. So, if you don’t mind a love triangle and a predominantly single POV, and you’re looking for a fantasy with a fantastic and unique magic system, I’d say give this one a go.
Thank you to Johnathan Ball Publishers for the gifted copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own
Spicy Rating: 🌶️/5
“You’re brighter than the moon and just as steady.” Rorik rested his chin on my shoulder as he spoke into the crook of my neck. “Even with me touching you, you’ve managed to maintain your breath. Nice work.”So House of Blight… I’m torn in two about this book. There are elements that I’m in awe of because I haven’t seen them done like this before, but there are also parts that just don’t appeal to me based on the kinds of books I usually gravitate toward. So, it’s not that it’s a bad book. I just might not be the ideal target audience. As a result, I think it was just… okay.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoyed Throne of Glass or books similar to that. This gave me similar vibes or style, and if that’s your jam, this will probably be a hit!
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
In a world ravaged by a deadly sickness known as Blight, a sickness that ravages the world and quickly kills any human it touches. Edira hides her forbidden threadmending magic. After losing her parents to the disease, she became the primary caretaker to her younger brothers. One day, her brothers contract the disease, but fortuitously, Orin, the head of the local Ever Family, approaches her with a deal. He will put her brothers in a frozen state if she agrees to help him find a cure. Now she is thrust into a world of secrets, decay, ancient vows and magic. Will she be able to find a way to cure her brothers and the Blight before her magic kills her?
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Edira was an interesting character. On the one hand, she carries a deep guilt because she couldn't save her parents. She feels like she has to carry the world on her shoulders because she’s all her brothers have left. I liked that she’s curious, smart, and resourceful. She uses what she has to make remedies, cures, and tinctures, and her intelligence comes through in how she engages with her environment. But there’s also this inferiority complex because she is human, surrounded by Evers. Evers have more power and, like the name suggests, they are immortal. This creates a sharp contrast to her shortened life, especially since she loses some of it every time she uses her magic. Her magic is rooted in sacrifice. Every time she uses it, it costs her something. It’s painful, torturous even. But because she wants to help others, she’s willing to face that pain. Each time she threadmends, she believes it brings her one step closer to saving her brothers.
Now, onto the things that didn’t work for me... and again, this is purely personal preference.
Firstly, this book is 99% from Edira’s POV. We only get one brief chapter from another perspective, but it's very quick. Personally, I love getting inside other characters’ heads, even just a snippet. I think it would have added tension and depth, and maybe even some surprise twists, if we’d seen more from Orin and Rorik’s perspectives instead of having to guess.
Secondly, the tone and vibes straddled the line between YA and Adult, and I don’t think it ever fully committed to either. There are F-bombs, mature themes, and some light on-page spice, but the tropes and character dynamics felt more YA. The “chosen one” energy, the “you’re not like other girls” moments, and the entire world hinging on a single person saving it. Then there’s the love triangle, which I tend to see more in teen books, whereas in adult I’d expect a Why Choose. Add to that the fact that Edira gets flustered just because Orin looks at her while her brothers are dying and she’s trapped in a house... it felt too juvenile at times for the stakes we were dealing with.
That said, the magic system deserves serious praise. It’s one of the most unique systems I’ve ever read. I’ve read a lot of fantasy with thread witches and Fae lore, but this world takes familiar elements and twists them into something completely fresh. The worldbuilding is layered, eerie, and rich in detail. You can tell it was crafted with care. The writing itself is powerful, atmospheric, evocative, and immersive. It pulls you in and keeps you there. That’s what kept me reading and invested in the outcome, even when I struggled to connect with the characters.
I did predict the plot twist pretty early at around 60%. I was reading this as part of a read-along and even shared my theory with the others at this point, so it wasn’t exactly shocking when it played out at the end.
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Romantasy
▶ Human X "Fae" Relationship
▶ Complex Worldbuilding
▶ Hidden Powers
▶ Dreaded Disease
▶ Intricate and Unique Magic System
▶ Captive/Captor
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Love Triangle
and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Winged MMC
▷ Tattoos Her
▷ Chin Lift
▷ Forehead Kisses
▷ Rolled Sleeves/Forearms
▷ Horns
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It had action, romance, drama, and truly exceptional worldbuilding. So, if you don’t mind a love triangle and a predominantly single POV, and you’re looking for a fantasy with a fantastic and unique magic system, I’d say give this one a go.
Thank you to Johnathan Ball Publishers for the gifted copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own
June 24, 2025
“𝒊 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒔. 𝒊𝒇 𝒂𝒏𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝒊 𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒐 𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆.”
5 ⭐️
this book was SO GOODDD. going into it, i didn’t really have any expectations cause i’d never heard anything about this book before reading it, but it really shocked me!!
🪡🧵🪲🌿🌟🍵
things to know about this book ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
✎ love triangle
✎ gothic but cozy fantasy
✎ unique magic system (the fmc edira is a threadmender, a person who can heal other peoples’ life threads in exchange for some of her own life)
honestly idk how i’m gonna wait another year for the second book to come out cus girl this was such a good book. throughout reading, even though it was a gothic fantasy, it was so cozy like the whole time reading i felt so immersed in the book. the narrator for this book also had a really nice voice!!
the plot was so unexpected and honestly it was so easy to get into considering that it’s a fantasy. i need to find more books exactly like this because it was so perfect, i def recommend
some quotes
“for those who constantly sacrifice in the name of others. it’s okay to save yourself first.”
“giving in to anger is something akin to bliss”
“the only pain i’d ever intentionally inflict on you is the agony of making you wait to feel the pleasure of release” 🌝👀
“ ‘have i snared your attention?’
indefinitely “
“for edira, i’d burn their estate to the ground”
————
xo 💌
5 ⭐️
this book was SO GOODDD. going into it, i didn’t really have any expectations cause i’d never heard anything about this book before reading it, but it really shocked me!!
🪡🧵🪲🌿🌟🍵
things to know about this book ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
✎ love triangle
✎ gothic but cozy fantasy
✎ unique magic system (the fmc edira is a threadmender, a person who can heal other peoples’ life threads in exchange for some of her own life)
honestly idk how i’m gonna wait another year for the second book to come out cus girl this was such a good book. throughout reading, even though it was a gothic fantasy, it was so cozy like the whole time reading i felt so immersed in the book. the narrator for this book also had a really nice voice!!
the plot was so unexpected and honestly it was so easy to get into considering that it’s a fantasy. i need to find more books exactly like this because it was so perfect, i def recommend
some quotes
“for those who constantly sacrifice in the name of others. it’s okay to save yourself first.”
“giving in to anger is something akin to bliss”
“the only pain i’d ever intentionally inflict on you is the agony of making you wait to feel the pleasure of release” 🌝👀
“ ‘have i snared your attention?’
indefinitely “
“for edira, i’d burn their estate to the ground”
————
xo 💌
April 16, 2025
It was boring and I’m pretty sure the title is a spoiler.
April 25, 2025
IM CRYING. I LOVE RORIK. GIVE ME BOOK 2 NOW.
February 28, 2025
4.5⭐️
I devoured this in a day! What a unique cool magic system and world.
I loved the FMC she is a human with healer magic and she is forced to join forces with the very immortals she loathes… “the evers”
“It’s delightful to know that I make you squirm.”
“a flicker of awareness sparked in my chest, and my world froze. It was small, like the first star winking to life in the presence of dusk, but brilliant just the same. And with it came a soothing warmth that beat through my limbs in time with my heart. My breath caught in my lungs.”
With twists and action, I could not put it down.
I need book 2 immediately!
Thankyou for the arc netgalley & HQ!
I devoured this in a day! What a unique cool magic system and world.
I loved the FMC she is a human with healer magic and she is forced to join forces with the very immortals she loathes… “the evers”
“It’s delightful to know that I make you squirm.”
“a flicker of awareness sparked in my chest, and my world froze. It was small, like the first star winking to life in the presence of dusk, but brilliant just the same. And with it came a soothing warmth that beat through my limbs in time with my heart. My breath caught in my lungs.”
With twists and action, I could not put it down.
I need book 2 immediately!
Thankyou for the arc netgalley & HQ!
January 20, 2025
House of Blight had the makings of something truly special. The concept of 'threadmending' – a magical ability to heal at a personal cost – is intriguing. And the gothic setting, with its brooding atmosphere and hints of a sinister secret within the Fernglove family, initially drew me in.
However, the promise quickly faded. Edira, our protagonist, felt disappointingly flat. Her reactions often felt contrived, and her decisions lacked the agency I expected from a character with such a powerful gift. The romance, while a central plot point, lacked genuine spark. Orin, despite his supposed kindness, remained an enigma, and their connection never truly ignited for me.
The world-building also felt underdeveloped. The setting, while atmospheric, lacked the necessary detail to truly immerse the reader. I yearned for a deeper exploration of the magic system, the societal implications of threadmending, and the history of the blight.
Ultimately, House of Blight felt like a missed opportunity. It had the potential to be a captivating story, but it was ultimately let down by underdeveloped characters, a predictable plot, and a lack of depth in the world-building. While it wasn't an unpleasant read, it left me feeling unsatisfied and yearning for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
However, the promise quickly faded. Edira, our protagonist, felt disappointingly flat. Her reactions often felt contrived, and her decisions lacked the agency I expected from a character with such a powerful gift. The romance, while a central plot point, lacked genuine spark. Orin, despite his supposed kindness, remained an enigma, and their connection never truly ignited for me.
The world-building also felt underdeveloped. The setting, while atmospheric, lacked the necessary detail to truly immerse the reader. I yearned for a deeper exploration of the magic system, the societal implications of threadmending, and the history of the blight.
Ultimately, House of Blight felt like a missed opportunity. It had the potential to be a captivating story, but it was ultimately let down by underdeveloped characters, a predictable plot, and a lack of depth in the world-building. While it wasn't an unpleasant read, it left me feeling unsatisfied and yearning for more.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 7, 2025
4.2/5⭐️
Thank you SOOOO much to Harper Collins for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
A dark, gothic fantasy that pulled me in from the start!
After reading the prologue, I worried the book might be A LITTLEEEE too frightening for my taste—but I was completely wrong. Once I dove in I read the first 8 chapters in one sitting, I couldn’t stop. The story had me HOOKED.
The atmosphere is deeply dark and gothic, perfect for fans of eerie, immersive fantasy. We follow Edira, a desperate sister who strikes a dangerous bargain with an Ever—a mysterious being with otherworldly powers—to save her brothers from a deadly blight. Orin, the Ever, takes her under his wing, bringing her into his home and enlisting his brother to help train her. But things get even more complicated when Edira finds herself drawn to BOTH brothers—adding delicious tension to an already high-stakes story.
The pacing is lightning-fast, which I love and cuts straight into the action. Plot twists really had me at the edge of my seat. A little spicy and I’m expecting for the heat to kick up in book 2. While there was a slight lull in the middle, the intensity picked back up around the 75% mark, leading to a gripping finale.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this dark, romantic fantasy and can’t wait to continue the series!
Thank you SOOOO much to Harper Collins for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
A dark, gothic fantasy that pulled me in from the start!
After reading the prologue, I worried the book might be A LITTLEEEE too frightening for my taste—but I was completely wrong. Once I dove in I read the first 8 chapters in one sitting, I couldn’t stop. The story had me HOOKED.
The atmosphere is deeply dark and gothic, perfect for fans of eerie, immersive fantasy. We follow Edira, a desperate sister who strikes a dangerous bargain with an Ever—a mysterious being with otherworldly powers—to save her brothers from a deadly blight. Orin, the Ever, takes her under his wing, bringing her into his home and enlisting his brother to help train her. But things get even more complicated when Edira finds herself drawn to BOTH brothers—adding delicious tension to an already high-stakes story.
The pacing is lightning-fast, which I love and cuts straight into the action. Plot twists really had me at the edge of my seat. A little spicy and I’m expecting for the heat to kick up in book 2. While there was a slight lull in the middle, the intensity picked back up around the 75% mark, leading to a gripping finale.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this dark, romantic fantasy and can’t wait to continue the series!
January 6, 2025
it physically pains me to say this but unfortunately dnf at 37%. i was so unbelievably excited for this one as i loved maxyms beast charmer series, it remains one of my favorite trilogies to this day but this has fallen so flat for me it is like pulling teeth to keep reading it 😭
being 37% in one would think that we are well on our way through plot progression, we can remember who is who, we know our surroundings & we are just simply getting SOMEWHERE. however that is not the case for me, i feel like where i am still stuck in the first 10% of the story. clearly know this is setting up to be a love triangle but i dont understand who the hell is what guy… i simply cant keep them straight? there isnt anything thats making me want to continue this journey and see what becomes of edira, her brothers and her power.
its really a shame because the prologue hooked me really good however i dont really even understand how it correlates with the actual story? i guess maybe if i had gone further it may have tied it in? i havent fully decided whether or not i will give this a try again in the future through an audiobook or if ill just read spoilers from others reviews once its out and amasses a lot of different opinions but yeah im just overall really disappointed with this one 😭
being 37% in one would think that we are well on our way through plot progression, we can remember who is who, we know our surroundings & we are just simply getting SOMEWHERE. however that is not the case for me, i feel like where i am still stuck in the first 10% of the story. clearly know this is setting up to be a love triangle but i dont understand who the hell is what guy… i simply cant keep them straight? there isnt anything thats making me want to continue this journey and see what becomes of edira, her brothers and her power.
its really a shame because the prologue hooked me really good however i dont really even understand how it correlates with the actual story? i guess maybe if i had gone further it may have tied it in? i havent fully decided whether or not i will give this a try again in the future through an audiobook or if ill just read spoilers from others reviews once its out and amasses a lot of different opinions but yeah im just overall really disappointed with this one 😭
October 4, 2024
"The House of Blight" captivated me from the start with its gothic blend of magic, heartache, and a hint of intrigue. The characters were compelling, drawing me into the narrative, and despite anticipating some plot twists, I was eager to see how they would unfold. Edira, a Threadminder, possesses the gift of instantaneous healing, but her magic comes with a cost: with each life she mends, she forfeits a part of her own. Thus, she conceals her power to safeguard her life. However, when an incurable blight strikes both her brothers, she faces the reality that she cannot save them both. Upon discovering her magic and dilemma, the influential Ferngloves, led by Orin, extend an offer of assistance. Edira is drawn to Orin's sincerity and benevolence, agreeing to a pact beneficial to both. But as the Ferngloves' veneer starts to crumble, she is forced to decide whom to rescue and at what price. This story, exquisitely woven, seizes the heart and prompts reflection on the lengths one would go to protect loved ones. I thoroughly enjoyed this tale and eagerly anticipate the second book.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 10, 2025
firstly, thank you to the publisher for an arc!
this was a fantastic first book of a duology — i really enjoyed the suspense of edira trying to find a cure for the blight that troubles the immortal beings that recruited her for her healing powers.
i love when magic systems have repercussions for the user — i find it to add a level of complexity for the characters; they just can’t use their powers to achieve their goals without thinking ahead to consider the future consequences. to have the ability to heal others, only to feel the pain of the wound and lose seconds, minutes, days, weeks or even months and years of your life was unique!
i also listened to the audio as i read and the narrator did a great job!
this was a fantastic first book of a duology — i really enjoyed the suspense of edira trying to find a cure for the blight that troubles the immortal beings that recruited her for her healing powers.
i love when magic systems have repercussions for the user — i find it to add a level of complexity for the characters; they just can’t use their powers to achieve their goals without thinking ahead to consider the future consequences. to have the ability to heal others, only to feel the pain of the wound and lose seconds, minutes, days, weeks or even months and years of your life was unique!
i also listened to the audio as i read and the narrator did a great job!
September 26, 2024
DNF
Ever read a book with an amazing prologue and the book fell short? This was it for me.
I was quite excited to read this book considering how it was compared to Rachel Gillig's One Dark Window duology. And it's a shame I just couldn't find myself to finish the book.
I read 89 pages and if something or someone was introduced, it was in full length paragraphs. The Fernglove manor, gardens, characters, and the town was explained in paragraph after paragraph. I started skimming at that point because I didn't want to read about how the walls were decorated or how polished the floors were.
And the characters were so flat and had no depth to me. I knew the romance was a love triangle from reading other reviews and the fact it was introduced after 60ish pages just was the last straw for me.
I guess I can't really give the book a solid review because I dnf it and didn't see it to the end but the fact that it's compared to Rachel Gillig's books is crazy.
The gothic world was fun and I enjoyed seeing another book with those vibes. But everything felt too rushed and instant. There was so much potential for this book and it makes me sad to review books so low when authors spend so much time pouring everything into them.
*𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘤*
Ever read a book with an amazing prologue and the book fell short? This was it for me.
I was quite excited to read this book considering how it was compared to Rachel Gillig's One Dark Window duology. And it's a shame I just couldn't find myself to finish the book.
I read 89 pages and if something or someone was introduced, it was in full length paragraphs. The Fernglove manor, gardens, characters, and the town was explained in paragraph after paragraph. I started skimming at that point because I didn't want to read about how the walls were decorated or how polished the floors were.
And the characters were so flat and had no depth to me. I knew the romance was a love triangle from reading other reviews and the fact it was introduced after 60ish pages just was the last straw for me.
I guess I can't really give the book a solid review because I dnf it and didn't see it to the end but the fact that it's compared to Rachel Gillig's books is crazy.
The gothic world was fun and I enjoyed seeing another book with those vibes. But everything felt too rushed and instant. There was so much potential for this book and it makes me sad to review books so low when authors spend so much time pouring everything into them.
*𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘏𝘢𝘳𝘱𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘤*
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