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Rune Heart #4
Raven Heart
He tore the world in two. But the truth is… she’s the greatest threat to them all.
Nadiya finally has everything she has ever wanted. She’s the first no-name commander and Prince Sulien’s fiancée, but there is no wedding in sight, only Sulien’s orders she’s not allowed outside the palace walls. Her hunger grows with each day, and the truth is becoming dangerously hard to hide.
When Nadiya’s secret is discovered by the king, she has no choice in what she has to do in order to survive. As she runs from everything she’s ever known, will she chase down a past she never had, or will she turn to the enemy of her enemy, the man she once believed she loved? If he had known the truth, would he even have left her behind in the first place?
Lateo has been preparing for this day his entire life. Now that a war is being waged in his name, he has to see it through to the end. Whether that’s the end of the war or the end of his life remained to be seen, but the odds are not in his favor. Each day he has to hide the truth from the people who have bet their lives on his reign, and he won’t let anything jeopardize that.
Not even the girl he loved enough to give up all his ambitions for. So long as she’s safe in the palace, he can focus on winning the war. Unless word of her marriage to Sulien kills him first. When that fateful news finally arrives, will he be able to finally give up the hope of having the love of his life finally be his?
For lovers of epic magic, complex characters, and intense, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with no spice, Raven Heart is book 4 in the Rune Heart series, a YA fantasy perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone, Elise Kova, and Sarah K. L. Wilson!
Nadiya finally has everything she has ever wanted. She’s the first no-name commander and Prince Sulien’s fiancée, but there is no wedding in sight, only Sulien’s orders she’s not allowed outside the palace walls. Her hunger grows with each day, and the truth is becoming dangerously hard to hide.
When Nadiya’s secret is discovered by the king, she has no choice in what she has to do in order to survive. As she runs from everything she’s ever known, will she chase down a past she never had, or will she turn to the enemy of her enemy, the man she once believed she loved? If he had known the truth, would he even have left her behind in the first place?
Lateo has been preparing for this day his entire life. Now that a war is being waged in his name, he has to see it through to the end. Whether that’s the end of the war or the end of his life remained to be seen, but the odds are not in his favor. Each day he has to hide the truth from the people who have bet their lives on his reign, and he won’t let anything jeopardize that.
Not even the girl he loved enough to give up all his ambitions for. So long as she’s safe in the palace, he can focus on winning the war. Unless word of her marriage to Sulien kills him first. When that fateful news finally arrives, will he be able to finally give up the hope of having the love of his life finally be his?
For lovers of epic magic, complex characters, and intense, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers romance with no spice, Raven Heart is book 4 in the Rune Heart series, a YA fantasy perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone, Elise Kova, and Sarah K. L. Wilson!
- GenresFantasy
548 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2025
13 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Celeste Baxendell
23 books1,031 followersCeleste Baxendell has always read anything she could get her hands on, but once she read her first fantasy novel, she was hooked and hasn’t looked back since.
Her love of magic, adventure, and romance hasn’t waned with age, and she endeavors to write nail-biting stories with compelling, complex characters, and finding light in dark times.
She is incredibly blessed to spend her time writing from her favorite chair with her legs curled up under her as she fights the southern heat. When she isn’t writing, she’s either reading, drawing, or sewing, in that order, and most likely thinking about writing as she does.
Her love of magic, adventure, and romance hasn’t waned with age, and she endeavors to write nail-biting stories with compelling, complex characters, and finding light in dark times.
She is incredibly blessed to spend her time writing from her favorite chair with her legs curled up under her as she fights the southern heat. When she isn’t writing, she’s either reading, drawing, or sewing, in that order, and most likely thinking about writing as she does.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 6, 2025
Oh. My. Heavens. THE ANGST!!!! It LITERALLY killed me!💔😭💖✨ [slight spoilers for those who haven't read the previous books!!]
Nadiya and Lateo are back at it again, fighting each other and their emotions (the latter being mostly Nadiya). I was left extremely frustrated throughout the whole book for reasons I cannot say without spoiling the whole book, but let. Me. Tell. You. *drum roll*🥁🥁
The angst was no joke. 💔
I was left emotionally distraught, 😭 which, according to my rating system, is the best book ever. But let me clarify, it was the ROMANCE AND the angst that was pulling me by the ankle into a black hole. ⚫ (help!) Celeste Baxendell was SPECTACULAR in this book.✨✨
My only complaint (and it's really pathetic) is this kinda felt like a filler book, but I LOVED the part where and it really helped Nadiya realize that she was NOT an abomination wearing previous Nadiya's face. *frustrated sigh* 😑 I was yelling at Nadiya and her obliviousness half of the time, but she came to her senses (at the END of the book!!!)
All in all, I can't say this is my fav book of all time because that list changes too often, BUT IT IS RIGHT NOW!!!!✨💖😭😑🥲⭐🤯💔🩵🩵
Side note: Lateo was the cutest EVER!! I love him 💗🩵🩷
Lateoisdabest
Nadiya and Lateo are back at it again, fighting each other and their emotions (the latter being mostly Nadiya). I was left extremely frustrated throughout the whole book for reasons I cannot say without spoiling the whole book, but let. Me. Tell. You. *drum roll*🥁🥁
The angst was no joke. 💔
I was left emotionally distraught, 😭 which, according to my rating system, is the best book ever. But let me clarify, it was the ROMANCE AND the angst that was pulling me by the ankle into a black hole. ⚫ (help!) Celeste Baxendell was SPECTACULAR in this book.✨✨
My only complaint (and it's really pathetic) is this kinda felt like a filler book, but I LOVED the part where and it really helped Nadiya realize that she was NOT an abomination wearing previous Nadiya's face. *frustrated sigh* 😑 I was yelling at Nadiya and her obliviousness half of the time, but she came to her senses (at the END of the book!!!)
All in all, I can't say this is my fav book of all time because that list changes too often, BUT IT IS RIGHT NOW!!!!✨💖😭😑🥲⭐🤯💔🩵🩵
Side note: Lateo was the cutest EVER!! I love him 💗🩵🩷
Lateoisdabest
February 9, 2025
[Slight spoilers if you haven't read the previous books!]
Nadiya finally has everything she worked so hard for: she's the first no-name Commander and she's to marry Prince Sulien. But her secret is becoming harder to hide by each day, and when it's discovered Nadiya has to flee the palace. At the same time there's a war going on, with Sulien on one side and Lateo on the other. Nadiya doesn't want to choose side, but does she have any choice?
"Nadiya, the no-name mage that had become the Beata, was dead. The creature walking around with her face lived instead."
Nadiya keeps believing that she's no longer human, that she isn't worth anything or capable of any feelings. She's an abomination that doesn't deserve to live.
"He'd known the first time he'd kissed her that it would be the end of him no matter what last-minute prayer he'd sent to Asentai to save him, but if he had to go to his end soon, going kissing her wasn't the worst way to go."
For the first time in this book series we also get Lateo's POV and that's fun! But also quite hard to read... Even though Nadiya has betrayed him he keeps defending her and try to convince her that she's worth loving. Lateo truly deserves a medal! Nadiya probably deserves some kind of medal as well, because Baxendell puts both of them through very rough situations! So many times it has felt hopeless, and when it at last starts to look brighter, then BAM! - time for the next punch in the gut! At least we're finally rid of Belgair, the High Priest! (I truly hate that character!)
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
Nadiya finally has everything she worked so hard for: she's the first no-name Commander and she's to marry Prince Sulien. But her secret is becoming harder to hide by each day, and when it's discovered Nadiya has to flee the palace. At the same time there's a war going on, with Sulien on one side and Lateo on the other. Nadiya doesn't want to choose side, but does she have any choice?
"Nadiya, the no-name mage that had become the Beata, was dead. The creature walking around with her face lived instead."
Nadiya keeps believing that she's no longer human, that she isn't worth anything or capable of any feelings. She's an abomination that doesn't deserve to live.
"He'd known the first time he'd kissed her that it would be the end of him no matter what last-minute prayer he'd sent to Asentai to save him, but if he had to go to his end soon, going kissing her wasn't the worst way to go."
For the first time in this book series we also get Lateo's POV and that's fun! But also quite hard to read... Even though Nadiya has betrayed him he keeps defending her and try to convince her that she's worth loving. Lateo truly deserves a medal! Nadiya probably deserves some kind of medal as well, because Baxendell puts both of them through very rough situations! So many times it has felt hopeless, and when it at last starts to look brighter, then BAM! - time for the next punch in the gut! At least we're finally rid of Belgair, the High Priest! (I truly hate that character!)
* I received an ARC from the author and I'm giving my honest review. *
January 14, 2025
Thank you to Celeste Baxendell for the ARC.
Plot 4.75/5
Characters 5/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-God, what this book series does to me. I have been fully invested and I don’t think it will stop anytime soon. I feel funny when I read these, in a good way but i haven’t felt like this very often whilst reading books and that’s with everything that goes on. The plot is still really compelling (especially after that cliffhanger) and I just want it to continue. I love discovering more and more about the world, the backgrounds and just everything about this universe in general.
-Helvius and Laelia’s story broke my heart. It really stuck with me since I read that scene and I can’t get it out of my head. It was really nice seeing a bit more of Nadiya’s past and where she came from. The main characters themselves are still incredible and the romance makes me feel something which is always a good sign. When I think it’s going well, something has to come ruin it. But I guess that’s the kind of angst I’m looking for in books.
-I don’t know how to feel about the ending. I was screaming at the book and I wished that things had gone differently but then again, there’s a whole other book left and I know it won’t disappoint. I do not want this to end but I need to know what happened next. The next book cannot come out sooner and I will be anticipating it so much.
Plot 4.75/5
Characters 5/5
Ending 4/5
Interest 5/5
Overall 4.5/5
-God, what this book series does to me. I have been fully invested and I don’t think it will stop anytime soon. I feel funny when I read these, in a good way but i haven’t felt like this very often whilst reading books and that’s with everything that goes on. The plot is still really compelling (especially after that cliffhanger) and I just want it to continue. I love discovering more and more about the world, the backgrounds and just everything about this universe in general.
-Helvius and Laelia’s story broke my heart. It really stuck with me since I read that scene and I can’t get it out of my head. It was really nice seeing a bit more of Nadiya’s past and where she came from. The main characters themselves are still incredible and the romance makes me feel something which is always a good sign. When I think it’s going well, something has to come ruin it. But I guess that’s the kind of angst I’m looking for in books.
-I don’t know how to feel about the ending. I was screaming at the book and I wished that things had gone differently but then again, there’s a whole other book left and I know it won’t disappoint. I do not want this to end but I need to know what happened next. The next book cannot come out sooner and I will be anticipating it so much.
March 28, 2025
I've never stayed up late to finish a book before--but this one? Goodness, I wouldn't have been able to sleep if I didn't know how it was going to end! So far the best book in the series yet!!! Can't wait for Sheild Heart even though I'm almost scared of what's going to be the conclusion of this epic YA series!
March 3, 2025
I absolutely loved seeing both POVs. I really need Nadiya to come to her senses and stop being so indecisive. Canace was amazingly blunt. The hallucinations were interesting. Overall, I loved the book, and I can't wait until the last.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 20, 2025
Fantastic! I don’t know where to start! The other three books have been good, but this one blew me away. The others took me a little while to get into, but from the beginning of this book, I was hooked and read the book in one multi-hour-long sitting. Absolutely love the ravens. The character development is phenomenal. The plot didn’t go where I expected, but I loved the journey it took me on. With the parallels with its prequel series, I am very curious to see what happens in book 5. The stage is set.
Totally clean in both language and content. Multiple deaths and fights occur; it is a rebellion after all. Highly recommend, after reading the first three books in the series!
*I received an ARC. This review is optional, and all opinions are my own.
Totally clean in both language and content. Multiple deaths and fights occur; it is a rebellion after all. Highly recommend, after reading the first three books in the series!
*I received an ARC. This review is optional, and all opinions are my own.
January 3, 2025
Raven Heart was an enthralling read full of betrayals and heartfelt revelations. The vibrancy of the characters and their chaotic lives tempts the reader not to set the book down. Which is why I must admit that I stayed up far too late to finish the book in one sitting!
I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts. Celeste Baxendell artfully weaves a complex and gripping story that connects her characters through centuries and her readers to characters they loved from past books.
In every book Nadiya always seems to start at rock bottom, yet she keeps finding a way to seek lower still. This book was by far my favorite, because she finally does something just for herself, not her pride or others’ expectations. She seeks out the answers to her lonely childhood and begins to finally see what love and acceptance are really like.
Despite that positive step, this is still Nadiya we are talking about. She takes one step forward and then two steps back. Truly, I have never read a more consistent character. However, she has the most growth out of all the books in this one. Though as per usual, she leaves it for the 11th hour.
Now to the best part of the book - Lateo! My greatest wish for these books has finally been granted and we have a Lateo POV throughout Raven Heart! Unfortunately, he is really going through it. But, it is still wonderful to seem his scenes through his eyes. Much like Nadiya, he never learns either. Like a moth to the flame, he can never resist chasing Nadiya whenever given the chance. Poor guy.
Lateo is a shadow of himself in Raven Heart, but I am hoping his confident and snarky self may yet return in the next book. He is still my favorite though, and has plenty of moments where you see his original personality poking through.
One thing that is slightly jarring is that there’s often a big jump in cast between books. For instance, the second book lacked Raeka and focused on Canace, the third book lacked Lateo but focused on Sulien. And this book totally lacked Sulien and Raeka. Plot wise, it’s understandable. But from a reader’s perspective you do feel a bit jerked around. Plus it can be frustrating when you get so attached to seemingly important characters that simply vanish in the next book.
(This paragraph includes spoilers) I do find it odd how much Nadiya does not care, or think, about Sulien at all in this book. We all know she’s never loved him, and merely wanted him due to her ambition, but they are true friends. Or at least were, in the last book. The start of this book time leaps six months, and Nadiya is clearly traumatized by hiding what she is, but there was no reason for her to stop caring for Sulien. She still cared for Raeka, while knowing she’d hate her for being a leech. Nadiya owes Sulien a lot, he’s protected her and stood by her no matter the circumstance before. So for her to leave and not even miss him as a friend, or feel conflicted over helping the rebellion, was very surprising. Especially because Nadiya still believes leeches are evil, herself included. So she doesn’t yet view Sulien’s side of the conflict as the evil baby killing murderers. Obviously she feared consequences for what she is and what she was forced to do in self defense, but still she never seems to think of him positively. It’s very much out of sight, out of mind.
(This paragraph includes spoilers) I also was surprised how nonchalantly Nadiya reacts, or really doesn’t react, to Lateo confessing to the long standing plot for the throne and original intent to kill her. Because again, Nadiya’s current beliefs are still that leeches are evil and should be killed. She hasn’t thrown off her brainwashing yet, so why isn’t she outraged that the side of *justice* is being attacked? I understand that self preservation has led her to the rebellion. But her beliefs should still make her angry and upset to be there. But she just isn’t. She doesn’t seem to have any feelings at all about a rebellion seeking to eliminate the way of life she fought for, and dethrone and kill the man who was her best friend in the last book. And who personally has done nothing to her to change her opinion of him. She had so much fire about the injustice of leeches and Lateo’s impending coup last book, but now that it’s come to pass, she doesn’t seem to care very much.
Despite the above nitpicks, I throughly enjoyed this book. And one of the draws of this series is how much it makes you think. It’s one of the rare books in this genre where the reader is encouraged to doubt and second guess the main characters. It’s a great example of a writer showing, and not telling. I really love that about these books. And I enjoy following a flawed protagonist who the reader is not meant to think is the best savior the world could ask for.
Raven Heart delivers on all fronts. Along with the complicated characters, the world building is also phenomenal and really sucks you right into the story. I highly recommend Raven Heart as a well crafted and complex narrative that keeps the reader wholly entertained. I can’t wait for the next installment!
I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts. Celeste Baxendell artfully weaves a complex and gripping story that connects her characters through centuries and her readers to characters they loved from past books.
In every book Nadiya always seems to start at rock bottom, yet she keeps finding a way to seek lower still. This book was by far my favorite, because she finally does something just for herself, not her pride or others’ expectations. She seeks out the answers to her lonely childhood and begins to finally see what love and acceptance are really like.
Despite that positive step, this is still Nadiya we are talking about. She takes one step forward and then two steps back. Truly, I have never read a more consistent character. However, she has the most growth out of all the books in this one. Though as per usual, she leaves it for the 11th hour.
Now to the best part of the book - Lateo! My greatest wish for these books has finally been granted and we have a Lateo POV throughout Raven Heart! Unfortunately, he is really going through it. But, it is still wonderful to seem his scenes through his eyes. Much like Nadiya, he never learns either. Like a moth to the flame, he can never resist chasing Nadiya whenever given the chance. Poor guy.
Lateo is a shadow of himself in Raven Heart, but I am hoping his confident and snarky self may yet return in the next book. He is still my favorite though, and has plenty of moments where you see his original personality poking through.
One thing that is slightly jarring is that there’s often a big jump in cast between books. For instance, the second book lacked Raeka and focused on Canace, the third book lacked Lateo but focused on Sulien. And this book totally lacked Sulien and Raeka. Plot wise, it’s understandable. But from a reader’s perspective you do feel a bit jerked around. Plus it can be frustrating when you get so attached to seemingly important characters that simply vanish in the next book.
(This paragraph includes spoilers) I do find it odd how much Nadiya does not care, or think, about Sulien at all in this book. We all know she’s never loved him, and merely wanted him due to her ambition, but they are true friends. Or at least were, in the last book. The start of this book time leaps six months, and Nadiya is clearly traumatized by hiding what she is, but there was no reason for her to stop caring for Sulien. She still cared for Raeka, while knowing she’d hate her for being a leech. Nadiya owes Sulien a lot, he’s protected her and stood by her no matter the circumstance before. So for her to leave and not even miss him as a friend, or feel conflicted over helping the rebellion, was very surprising. Especially because Nadiya still believes leeches are evil, herself included. So she doesn’t yet view Sulien’s side of the conflict as the evil baby killing murderers. Obviously she feared consequences for what she is and what she was forced to do in self defense, but still she never seems to think of him positively. It’s very much out of sight, out of mind.
(This paragraph includes spoilers) I also was surprised how nonchalantly Nadiya reacts, or really doesn’t react, to Lateo confessing to the long standing plot for the throne and original intent to kill her. Because again, Nadiya’s current beliefs are still that leeches are evil and should be killed. She hasn’t thrown off her brainwashing yet, so why isn’t she outraged that the side of *justice* is being attacked? I understand that self preservation has led her to the rebellion. But her beliefs should still make her angry and upset to be there. But she just isn’t. She doesn’t seem to have any feelings at all about a rebellion seeking to eliminate the way of life she fought for, and dethrone and kill the man who was her best friend in the last book. And who personally has done nothing to her to change her opinion of him. She had so much fire about the injustice of leeches and Lateo’s impending coup last book, but now that it’s come to pass, she doesn’t seem to care very much.
Despite the above nitpicks, I throughly enjoyed this book. And one of the draws of this series is how much it makes you think. It’s one of the rare books in this genre where the reader is encouraged to doubt and second guess the main characters. It’s a great example of a writer showing, and not telling. I really love that about these books. And I enjoy following a flawed protagonist who the reader is not meant to think is the best savior the world could ask for.
Raven Heart delivers on all fronts. Along with the complicated characters, the world building is also phenomenal and really sucks you right into the story. I highly recommend Raven Heart as a well crafted and complex narrative that keeps the reader wholly entertained. I can’t wait for the next installment!
December 28, 2024
I’m going to state up front that I received an ARC copy (hence the early review) but I love supporting my favorite authors, so I am keeping my pre-ordered copy coming.
Yes, this is THAT good. Really reader, support independent writers as best you can!
Oh, where do I start? How about with the fact that Nadiya and Lateo have a lot of ground to cover, and weren’t on good terms when last we saw them.
Honestly, can Nadiya just stop ripping Lateo’s heart to shreds? After 3 books it’s like, enough already. Yes, you both have a lot to work through (and extensive therapy sessions) but if Nadiya isn’t going to get her head in straight about what she wants I am taking that boy home for myself!
I know, I know, not helping am I?
Nadiya is still struggling to find any humanity within now that she is the thing the Runai fear most - a leech- an abomination with no emotions and only an empty void inside.
Against the building revolution, Nadiya is trying to find anything to make herself feel again. When circumstances shift and she is forced to run just where is a girl with no familial ties and no allies to turn?
Raven Heart focuses so much on Nadiya trying to pull the pieces of her life together and find anything she can cling to for hope. Lateo is struggling to survive the vast amounts of vitea that is slowly killing his body. When an act of desperation throws them back into one another’s paths, can Lateo resist Nadiya’s pull when her life is on the line?
No. Yes. With a landslide of difficulty.
As the war grows and frontlines shift, it all comes to a nail-biting battle that will leave you breathless in anticipation for the final war that is coming in the series finale to come.
Both Nadiya and Lateo have changed and grown from their first meeting 3 books ago and I was delighted over Nadiya’s journey here. Sure, she is still full of self-doubts right now, but it’s definitely warranted. By the end I did want to smack her upside the head a few times, but we’ve all known that person who believes their worth is measured by accomplishments only. You can feel her pain here in a way that feels so honest it will wring you out.
Lateo…. oh, Lateo. He needs to stop being so selfless and perhaps learn about personal boundaries. He’s a boy with his heart on his sleeve and you just don’t want that beautiful boy being kicked around anymore.
Thankfully, Sulien and Raeka have a lighter presence here, as the cast adds up quickly by the time we reach the end, and rather than spending time back in familiar settings like Imperia’s Praesi and Areator we get to spend time amongst the clan lands and mountains.
If you weren’t already a fan of Ms. Baxendell’s duology The Prince’s Captive and The Prince’s Mage, give yourself a treat and read them once you’ve finished Raven Heart. While this prequel is not mandatory to follow the Raven Heart plot, it is the story of Prince Gavril and Marcella of Clan Desero in full and a beautiful story all of its own.
Yes, this is THAT good. Really reader, support independent writers as best you can!
Oh, where do I start? How about with the fact that Nadiya and Lateo have a lot of ground to cover, and weren’t on good terms when last we saw them.
Honestly, can Nadiya just stop ripping Lateo’s heart to shreds? After 3 books it’s like, enough already. Yes, you both have a lot to work through (and extensive therapy sessions) but if Nadiya isn’t going to get her head in straight about what she wants I am taking that boy home for myself!
I know, I know, not helping am I?
Nadiya is still struggling to find any humanity within now that she is the thing the Runai fear most - a leech- an abomination with no emotions and only an empty void inside.
Against the building revolution, Nadiya is trying to find anything to make herself feel again. When circumstances shift and she is forced to run just where is a girl with no familial ties and no allies to turn?
Raven Heart focuses so much on Nadiya trying to pull the pieces of her life together and find anything she can cling to for hope. Lateo is struggling to survive the vast amounts of vitea that is slowly killing his body. When an act of desperation throws them back into one another’s paths, can Lateo resist Nadiya’s pull when her life is on the line?
No. Yes. With a landslide of difficulty.
As the war grows and frontlines shift, it all comes to a nail-biting battle that will leave you breathless in anticipation for the final war that is coming in the series finale to come.
Both Nadiya and Lateo have changed and grown from their first meeting 3 books ago and I was delighted over Nadiya’s journey here. Sure, she is still full of self-doubts right now, but it’s definitely warranted. By the end I did want to smack her upside the head a few times, but we’ve all known that person who believes their worth is measured by accomplishments only. You can feel her pain here in a way that feels so honest it will wring you out.
Lateo…. oh, Lateo. He needs to stop being so selfless and perhaps learn about personal boundaries. He’s a boy with his heart on his sleeve and you just don’t want that beautiful boy being kicked around anymore.
Thankfully, Sulien and Raeka have a lighter presence here, as the cast adds up quickly by the time we reach the end, and rather than spending time back in familiar settings like Imperia’s Praesi and Areator we get to spend time amongst the clan lands and mountains.
If you weren’t already a fan of Ms. Baxendell’s duology The Prince’s Captive and The Prince’s Mage, give yourself a treat and read them once you’ve finished Raven Heart. While this prequel is not mandatory to follow the Raven Heart plot, it is the story of Prince Gavril and Marcella of Clan Desero in full and a beautiful story all of its own.
January 15, 2025
6 months after the previous book, Nadiya is still trying to figure out how to live her life as a leech. Still believing they are inhuman abominations, she desperately wants to figure out how to "fix" herself so she is no longer one of them. But then she gets word from Sulien he is going to put out a bounty on all leeches and wants her to come up with the rune to verify whether they are or not before they are punished. And it really gets busy from there! Finally finding out who here real parents are puts her in a situation with the king where she must out herself or die. Now she must go on the run so she can have the time to figure out how to "fix" herself.
So much happens in this book! This is another book that is difficult to summarize without giving too much away. But she does get to meet her Solitus parents and learn what really happens when a Runai is born to a Solitus. And for the "first" time she experiences unconditional love. It truly breaks my heart that she still holds on to the belief that she is only a shell who is skilled at deceiving even herself. She still holds onto the belief she is inhuman and selfish.
Nadiya is a character that you sometimes want to scream at or grab by the shoulders and shake. While she means well, she makes such poor decisions. (But I still love her!) It was great to get more insight into Lateo as well. You really get a good understanding of all his struggles as well. And boy is he going through a lot. Both Nadiya and Lateo end up depending on Canace of all people as well.
The story moves along at a great pace and towards the end, it really gets going. Betrayals and lie told are revealed from all parties and secrets are revealed. The closer I got to the end, the harder it was to put the book down. I did stay up a little too late after getting wrapped up in the book! And after that ending, I cannot wait to read the final book!
So much happens in this book! This is another book that is difficult to summarize without giving too much away. But she does get to meet her Solitus parents and learn what really happens when a Runai is born to a Solitus. And for the "first" time she experiences unconditional love. It truly breaks my heart that she still holds on to the belief that she is only a shell who is skilled at deceiving even herself. She still holds onto the belief she is inhuman and selfish.
Nadiya is a character that you sometimes want to scream at or grab by the shoulders and shake. While she means well, she makes such poor decisions. (But I still love her!) It was great to get more insight into Lateo as well. You really get a good understanding of all his struggles as well. And boy is he going through a lot. Both Nadiya and Lateo end up depending on Canace of all people as well.
The story moves along at a great pace and towards the end, it really gets going. Betrayals and lie told are revealed from all parties and secrets are revealed. The closer I got to the end, the harder it was to put the book down. I did stay up a little too late after getting wrapped up in the book! And after that ending, I cannot wait to read the final book!
July 23, 2025
Raven Heart is an emotional whirlwind and, in my opinion, the best book in the Rune Heart series so far. Celeste Baxendell raises the stakes in every way—ripping her characters apart, putting them through heartbreak, betrayal, and brutal self-discovery, then slowly piecing them back together.
Six months after the last book, Nadiya finally seems to have it all: she’s the first no-name commander and engaged to Prince Sulien. But her secret—what she really is—can’t stay hidden forever. When it finally comes out, she’s forced to flee the only life she’s ever known, setting off a chain of events that affect both sides of a brewing war.
This is the first book where we get Lateo’s perspective, and it’s both a gift and a gut-punch. He’s still carrying so much love and loyalty for Nadiya, even after everything that’s happened. His chapters added so much depth—not just to his character, but to the whole story.
Nadiya continues to be one of the most complicated characters I’ve read. She’s frustrating, stubborn, and often cruel to herself, but it makes her journey feel real. In this book, she finally starts seeking answers not to prove something, but for herself—and that shift is so satisfying. Her growth is subtle and messy, but it’s there.
Baxendell’s writing shines here, especially in the emotional beats and character development. The pacing is tight, the betrayals hit hard, and the reveals kept me turning pages way later than I planned. Even side characters like Canace step into the spotlight in surprising ways.
By the end, I was fully hooked—and already desperate for Book 5. Raven Heart is intense, heartfelt, and completely unputdownable. If you’ve come this far with Nadiya, don’t stop now. This one’s a ride.
Six months after the last book, Nadiya finally seems to have it all: she’s the first no-name commander and engaged to Prince Sulien. But her secret—what she really is—can’t stay hidden forever. When it finally comes out, she’s forced to flee the only life she’s ever known, setting off a chain of events that affect both sides of a brewing war.
This is the first book where we get Lateo’s perspective, and it’s both a gift and a gut-punch. He’s still carrying so much love and loyalty for Nadiya, even after everything that’s happened. His chapters added so much depth—not just to his character, but to the whole story.
Nadiya continues to be one of the most complicated characters I’ve read. She’s frustrating, stubborn, and often cruel to herself, but it makes her journey feel real. In this book, she finally starts seeking answers not to prove something, but for herself—and that shift is so satisfying. Her growth is subtle and messy, but it’s there.
Baxendell’s writing shines here, especially in the emotional beats and character development. The pacing is tight, the betrayals hit hard, and the reveals kept me turning pages way later than I planned. Even side characters like Canace step into the spotlight in surprising ways.
By the end, I was fully hooked—and already desperate for Book 5. Raven Heart is intense, heartfelt, and completely unputdownable. If you’ve come this far with Nadiya, don’t stop now. This one’s a ride.
January 21, 2025
This book gave me everything I was hoping for, and more!
For a start, we get Lateo's perspective, which means we get an explanation for a lot of inexplicable things that happened at the end of book 3 (and even books 1-2), not to mention lots and lots of delicious yearning. We finally get an insight into Balgair's plans and manipulations behind the scenes., which--I don't know about you--made me hate him even more.
Even though Nadiyah and Lateo don't meet up again until the halfway point, things in their relationship seem to be finally ticking upward toward understanding, and I can't wait till we get to book 5 to see how things resolve.
I honestly don't know what else to say. This book tore my heart out in all the best possible ways. it was lovely to see Nadiyah's character growth. She finally manages to overcome her Runai pre-programmed beliefs enough to question what she's been taught. I loved spending more time with the clans. The developments with Raeka and Sulien--their interactions with Nadiyah and each other--were interesting.
I honestly have no idea how Baxendell is planning to wrap up the series, because I don't think Sulien is bad, and I don't know whether Lateo should be King, but the Runai attitude towards the leeches is sliding a bit too close to Nazi Germany.
Who will be king?
How is the Void going to be closed?
How is Nadiyah going to fulfil the prophesy?
One thing's for sure, it's going to be a wild ride to find out.
For a start, we get Lateo's perspective, which means we get an explanation for a lot of inexplicable things that happened at the end of book 3 (and even books 1-2), not to mention lots and lots of delicious yearning. We finally get an insight into Balgair's plans and manipulations behind the scenes., which--I don't know about you--made me hate him even more.
Even though Nadiyah and Lateo don't meet up again until the halfway point, things in their relationship seem to be finally ticking upward toward understanding, and I can't wait till we get to book 5 to see how things resolve.
I honestly don't know what else to say. This book tore my heart out in all the best possible ways. it was lovely to see Nadiyah's character growth. She finally manages to overcome her Runai pre-programmed beliefs enough to question what she's been taught. I loved spending more time with the clans. The developments with Raeka and Sulien--their interactions with Nadiyah and each other--were interesting.
I honestly have no idea how Baxendell is planning to wrap up the series, because I don't think Sulien is bad, and I don't know whether Lateo should be King, but the Runai attitude towards the leeches is sliding a bit too close to Nazi Germany.
Who will be king?
How is the Void going to be closed?
How is Nadiyah going to fulfil the prophesy?
One thing's for sure, it's going to be a wild ride to find out.
January 26, 2025
Nadiya is just trying to survive. Survive the personal revelations she just experienced; survive the empire shattering events that she lived through; survive living as what she has become. But her survival just became threatened with the new laws that Sulien just proposed. Laws that she was not aware of but clearly others she trusted knew about. With her secrets about to be revealed because of the hate of the King, she flees. But being the betrothed of the crown prince makes it hard for her to hide. Along her way she decides to look for answers she thought she had moved past, answers about her family and how she ended up at the Academy. The answers also come with some revelations and Lateo. With war becoming inevitable, Nadiya can no longer continue to ignore Lateo but there is something clearly wrong with him. Can she save those she cares for before war consumes them all?
As usual, I want to shake Nadiya. She cannot get out of her own way and is the reason for most of her problems. At least by the end she realizes what she wants but of course it’s at the end of the story so we can’t see her fix the problems until the next book. I really appreciate Canace and her character a lot more, she has become my favorite secondary character. I like seeing chapters from Lateo’s POV, I enjoy seeing his struggles and thoughts. I am looking forward to the conclusion of this series in the next installment.
As usual, I want to shake Nadiya. She cannot get out of her own way and is the reason for most of her problems. At least by the end she realizes what she wants but of course it’s at the end of the story so we can’t see her fix the problems until the next book. I really appreciate Canace and her character a lot more, she has become my favorite secondary character. I like seeing chapters from Lateo’s POV, I enjoy seeing his struggles and thoughts. I am looking forward to the conclusion of this series in the next installment.
January 7, 2025
Nadiya’s stubbornness and ambition continue to battle with her need to be loved. With Lateo and Sulien at war, she needs to choose a side. But how can she when everything she believed about who she was — what she was — could be wrong?
Should she stay with the one she always wanted or run to the one who promised her true desire?
“She was never meant to run away… She was meant to run to him.”
Ugh, Nadiya. The heartache this poor girl goes through in this story! I love how every book in this series builds so tightly from the one before, and the characters are pulled in so many different directions, questioning their truths.
I had a suspicion of the twist from the beginning, but begging them to see it was agony throughout the book. Because it all comes back to Nadiya’s belief that she doesn’t matter and it breaks my heart.
The final book in the series comes out later this year, and I need it now!
5 Roses
Much less kissing than the earlier books
No swears
Battle scenes; attempted deaths; injuries; on page death. Nothing overly descriptive
Themes of adoption; opposing sides of history; what makes us human; ambition
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
Should she stay with the one she always wanted or run to the one who promised her true desire?
“She was never meant to run away… She was meant to run to him.”
Ugh, Nadiya. The heartache this poor girl goes through in this story! I love how every book in this series builds so tightly from the one before, and the characters are pulled in so many different directions, questioning their truths.
I had a suspicion of the twist from the beginning, but begging them to see it was agony throughout the book. Because it all comes back to Nadiya’s belief that she doesn’t matter and it breaks my heart.
The final book in the series comes out later this year, and I need it now!
5 Roses
Much less kissing than the earlier books
No swears
Battle scenes; attempted deaths; injuries; on page death. Nothing overly descriptive
Themes of adoption; opposing sides of history; what makes us human; ambition
(Thank you to the author for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.)
January 27, 2025
Forbidden romance. Adorable animal characters. Intense battle. A secret exposed. Raven Heart delves further ino the story of Nadiya and Lateo, further entwining their destinies. This fourth installment of the Rune Heart series left me feeling broken, but hopeful for the next book(that last line, though. ❤️). I genuinely never have any idea where this story is going to go. Celeste Baxendell is such an amazing talented author. At this point, she's probably my favorite. 🤩 if she promises you angst, best believe it will be the angstiest. If she promises plot twists, I hope you're not prone to motion sickness. If she promises swoony romance, grab your smelling salts! I honestly love this series, and this book is no exception to that. Please put my heart back together, Celeste, because these characters and this story is killing me slowly! 🫠 I loved getting read Lateo's point of view in this book, and is our girl Nadiya finally going to recognize she is worthy of love and accept herself??!! The last book will tell I guess! Excited to see how she rounds it all out, but if you haven't started reading this series yet, why not?!!
January 14, 2025
I tell you what, things may take a little while to get off the ground, but that last chunk in each of these books has me clawing at my chair with anxiety as the climax builds! 😅
This book definitely focused more on Nadiya than the other characters, though we did get some of Lateo's perspective. At the end of the third book we found Lateo isn't doing well, and that continues through this book, so his personality isn't as strong in this book as it is in previous books. (Which is a slight bummer because I LOVE him, but I understand why, and we do get glimpses of our original Lateo.)
In this book, we get to see Nadiya's growth as she spends more time alone and finding herself. And I'm all about that! It's good to see her questioning everything she's been told and filtering through the various lies.
And by the end, there's a LOT of lies, heartache, and betrayal running amoch!
I'm really enjoying this series, and am excited for the next one to see how this ends!!
⚠️ No cursing
🫑 Kissing only
Thanks so much to Celeste for the ARC!
This book definitely focused more on Nadiya than the other characters, though we did get some of Lateo's perspective. At the end of the third book we found Lateo isn't doing well, and that continues through this book, so his personality isn't as strong in this book as it is in previous books. (Which is a slight bummer because I LOVE him, but I understand why, and we do get glimpses of our original Lateo.)
In this book, we get to see Nadiya's growth as she spends more time alone and finding herself. And I'm all about that! It's good to see her questioning everything she's been told and filtering through the various lies.
And by the end, there's a LOT of lies, heartache, and betrayal running amoch!
I'm really enjoying this series, and am excited for the next one to see how this ends!!
⚠️ No cursing
🫑 Kissing only
Thanks so much to Celeste for the ARC!
January 26, 2025
𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: Raven Heart by Celeste Baxendell (Book 4)
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Fantasy
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: January 24, 2025
🖤 Animal Companion
✨️ Runic Magic System
🖤 Morally Grey Characters
✨️ Found Family
🖤 Dual POV
✨️ Raging Civil War
Nadyia, babes... OPEN YOUR EYES!!! If you need me, I'll be screaming into the void until book 5 is released.
These books are seriously written so well! This one hurts, I just want their happily ever after. I don't LOVE the ignorance from Nadiya, but I understand that it's almost impossible to be un-brainwashed! I really dislike the selfishness... but it's oh so human to want nothing more than safety, even at the expense of others. The dual POV is done so well, I love Lateo and the way Baxendell encapsulates his struggles, and I definitely did not see the "cure" coming! UGH I ADORE THIS. The cliffhanger is devastating, prepare tissues.
Thank you so much @celwrites for the digital review copy!
⚠️: emetophobia, violence
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: YA Fantasy
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: January 24, 2025
🖤 Animal Companion
✨️ Runic Magic System
🖤 Morally Grey Characters
✨️ Found Family
🖤 Dual POV
✨️ Raging Civil War
Nadyia, babes... OPEN YOUR EYES!!! If you need me, I'll be screaming into the void until book 5 is released.
These books are seriously written so well! This one hurts, I just want their happily ever after. I don't LOVE the ignorance from Nadiya, but I understand that it's almost impossible to be un-brainwashed! I really dislike the selfishness... but it's oh so human to want nothing more than safety, even at the expense of others. The dual POV is done so well, I love Lateo and the way Baxendell encapsulates his struggles, and I definitely did not see the "cure" coming! UGH I ADORE THIS. The cliffhanger is devastating, prepare tissues.
Thank you so much @celwrites for the digital review copy!
⚠️: emetophobia, violence
February 5, 2025
This is book 4 in an epic, hits you in the feels, action packed, political intrigue, magic battles and a love triangle so well done that I no longer know who I’m wanting in the end anymore. 🫠
I won’t go into any more details because I don’t want to spoil anything but…these cliffhangers!!!! They are brutal in the absolute best way. I’m a glutton for a cliffhanger that leaves me shaking and begging for the next book and each of these has delivered and then some.
We finally get Lateo’s pov in this book and it’s made me look at so many things differently. I love getting into the characters’ heads. Maybe we can get Sulien and Canace next. So two povs told in third person.
Nadiya - no-name commander, former Beata
Lateo - aka the Second, former priest of the temple, new king
Raeka - mage and Nadiya’s best friend
Sulien - Prince
Steam - clean
I won’t go into any more details because I don’t want to spoil anything but…these cliffhangers!!!! They are brutal in the absolute best way. I’m a glutton for a cliffhanger that leaves me shaking and begging for the next book and each of these has delivered and then some.
We finally get Lateo’s pov in this book and it’s made me look at so many things differently. I love getting into the characters’ heads. Maybe we can get Sulien and Canace next. So two povs told in third person.
Nadiya - no-name commander, former Beata
Lateo - aka the Second, former priest of the temple, new king
Raeka - mage and Nadiya’s best friend
Sulien - Prince
Steam - clean
January 24, 2025
Oh my heart! This book. Seriously, if you haven't started the series yet, go do it now. If you've been waiting anxiously for this book, drop everything and start reading. You won't be able to put it down.
Nadiya and Lateo's journey is intense, in all the right ways. Love, hate, betrayal, fighting, magic, twists, and more love and rejection, this book has it all. We get to see Nadiya grow in ways I never imagined. And we get to hear Lateo's point of view.
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but I cannot wait until Shield Heart releases and we see how this saga concludes. At the same time, I don't want the series to end because I love this story.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving voluntary review.
Nadiya and Lateo's journey is intense, in all the right ways. Love, hate, betrayal, fighting, magic, twists, and more love and rejection, this book has it all. We get to see Nadiya grow in ways I never imagined. And we get to hear Lateo's point of view.
The ending is not a cliffhanger, but I cannot wait until Shield Heart releases and we see how this saga concludes. At the same time, I don't want the series to end because I love this story.
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving voluntary review.
February 4, 2025
This was by far my favorite book in the series! Up until this point I was continuously frustrated with Nadiya and her seeming character growth just to fall back into her old habits. I think I can safely say that she has finally made some worthwhile progress! All the slower moments in previous books were worth it for the scenes in this one! Without giving any spoilers, the scene in Lutetia was by far my favorite, closely followed by the final chapter.
I also loved seeing more of Lateo’s perspective this book. It has made me want to go back and reread everything with all the new information in mind.
Needless to say I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion of this story in the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I also loved seeing more of Lateo’s perspective this book. It has made me want to go back and reread everything with all the new information in mind.
Needless to say I am anxiously awaiting the conclusion of this story in the next book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2025
I want to give this 5 stars but i just can't. They make plans to run away in book 2 and itm takes her sooo damn long to realize that Lateo loves her. how dense are you girl? he is constantly throwing himself at you. Having multiple vitae induced hallucinations of you. the mean one belongs to Sullian and the nice one wants him. He prefers the mean vision of her because at least he knows its closer to how she actually treats him. how many times does he have to rescue her and tell her she matters to him more than anything else before she finally gets it. she is convinced neither of them is human anymore and can not love. then she FINALLY understands and i have to wait 3 weeks for last book! ahh Nadita I hate you you moron.
January 26, 2025
I have loved books 1-3 so couldn’t wait to read book four and OMG it was even better. The author grabs hold of you from the very start and slams us back into this incredible world and does not let go as we pick up from where we left off. The characters who have been through so much, continue to surprise, even during complex situations as they continue to grow and fight on. The storyline is captivating and gripping as questions are answered and secrets are revealed, there’s fighting, there’s magic and there’s twists and turns that will keep you spinning and I found myself on the edge of my seat. It is an incredible read and I for one cannot wait to read the next book.
January 22, 2025
This book! This series! So many feels! Honestly, Celeste writes so well, it's almost poetry in novel form. She also evokes so many emotions, at times it was hard to continue but I had to know what happened next. I can't wait for the epic series finale later this year! Nadiya and Lateo are so swoony while also being so frustrating. The end of this book was the least cliffhanger-ish of the series. Like, you're ready for the next book but not you must have it yesterday! If you like roman/greek themes, outcasts carving their way into the light, and magic, definitely give this series a shot!
January 24, 2025
When I didn't think it could get better it did!
I am continuously amazed by Celeste Baxendell and her ability to write books that top her last. When I heard this book contained our favorite MMC's POV I was not expecting what it entailed, in the best way possible! We get some insight from Lateo in previous books but that's only from Nadiya's pov, and this gives an entire new outlook on the struggles of Lateo and his outlook on everything. I was not prepared for the ending, and I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. Thank you so much for the arc!
I am continuously amazed by Celeste Baxendell and her ability to write books that top her last. When I heard this book contained our favorite MMC's POV I was not expecting what it entailed, in the best way possible! We get some insight from Lateo in previous books but that's only from Nadiya's pov, and this gives an entire new outlook on the struggles of Lateo and his outlook on everything. I was not prepared for the ending, and I am anxiously awaiting the next installment. Thank you so much for the arc!
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January 24, 2025I'm honestly not sure what to say that would not be considered spoilers. Also, I have no clue what stars to give this for Reasons that would also be said spoilers, so I'll just say this:
Celeste better fix what she broke in the next book.
Also, Canace is the MVP, can we all agree?
And I SHIP that new ship. That's all I'll say.
The ride is rocky, folks. We'll see ya on the other side.
I received an ARC copy from the author. I was not required to leave a review, negative or positive. All thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.
Celeste better fix what she broke in the next book.
Also, Canace is the MVP, can we all agree?
And I SHIP that new ship. That's all I'll say.
The ride is rocky, folks. We'll see ya on the other side.
I received an ARC copy from the author. I was not required to leave a review, negative or positive. All thoughts and opinions are honest and my own.
February 14, 2025
The most frustrating (in a good way) and angsty series and I can't get enough of it. It makes you feel everything, has you yelling at the book, and leaves you speechless at the end. Basically, an amazing reading experience.
we finally get the rock bottom, soul-breaking moment for Naydia and at the very end, we see her rise from the ashes. Naydia is a character that you want to shake and tell her to snap out of it, but you still love her because she refuses to be broken. However, that is her greatest handicap as we learn in this book the truth about her and her world. She is someone who clung to the only truth because if she faced the truth it would likely destroy her whole world.
However, the truth always fights to come out and we see a girl's whole world fall apart and the beginning of the slow painful process of healing from the lies and trauma of her life.
I love getting Leteo's POV in this book. I've been clamoring for his voice and it did not disappoint. I'm curious to see if our tortured hero becomes jaded after the events of this book.
I have to give a special shout-out to Canace. The real MVP. I hope she gets her own story told!
we finally get the rock bottom, soul-breaking moment for Naydia and at the very end, we see her rise from the ashes. Naydia is a character that you want to shake and tell her to snap out of it, but you still love her because she refuses to be broken. However, that is her greatest handicap as we learn in this book the truth about her and her world. She is someone who clung to the only truth because if she faced the truth it would likely destroy her whole world.
However, the truth always fights to come out and we see a girl's whole world fall apart and the beginning of the slow painful process of healing from the lies and trauma of her life.
I love getting Leteo's POV in this book. I've been clamoring for his voice and it did not disappoint. I'm curious to see if our tortured hero becomes jaded after the events of this book.
I have to give a special shout-out to Canace. The real MVP. I hope she gets her own story told!
January 24, 2025
I read this almost a weak ago, and I am still reeling from everything that went down!
There were so many things that I liked about this book, but also so many things driving me crazy (in a good way) because of yet another epic cliffhanger ending! I am honestly so scared for the finale to this series, and how everything will go down.
It was so much fun—and very insightful—getting to read Lateo’s POV, especially with how seamlessly some of the transitions went between chapters. One moment we’re in Nadiya’s head, the next Lateo’s and it was delightful!
I hope we get to see more of his POV in book 5 this summer!
There were so many cool revelations that I’m starting to realize were foreshadowed in earlier books, but now I’m really scared for book 5! Especially because of how each title is tied perfectly to the story (hint hint).
I loved watching Nadiya discover more about herself and wrestle with her humanity (especially after the revelation in Iron Heart [IYKYK]).
Some of you may know that Celeste’s series, Runes of Pain and Peace, is set centuries in the past in the same world as the Rune Heart series, and there were a good number of references to the MCs of that series in this book (more so than in previous books) so I definately want to read that series now!
I cannot wait to collect the entire series in print and binge it in the future whilst lamenting that I will never experience it for the first time again.
Thank you so much to the author, Celeste Baxendell, for letting me be on the ARC team for this stunning, devastatingly beautiful read!
There were so many things that I liked about this book, but also so many things driving me crazy (in a good way) because of yet another epic cliffhanger ending! I am honestly so scared for the finale to this series, and how everything will go down.
It was so much fun—and very insightful—getting to read Lateo’s POV, especially with how seamlessly some of the transitions went between chapters. One moment we’re in Nadiya’s head, the next Lateo’s and it was delightful!
I hope we get to see more of his POV in book 5 this summer!
There were so many cool revelations that I’m starting to realize were foreshadowed in earlier books, but now I’m really scared for book 5! Especially because of how each title is tied perfectly to the story (hint hint).
I loved watching Nadiya discover more about herself and wrestle with her humanity (especially after the revelation in Iron Heart [IYKYK]).
Some of you may know that Celeste’s series, Runes of Pain and Peace, is set centuries in the past in the same world as the Rune Heart series, and there were a good number of references to the MCs of that series in this book (more so than in previous books) so I definately want to read that series now!
I cannot wait to collect the entire series in print and binge it in the future whilst lamenting that I will never experience it for the first time again.
Thank you so much to the author, Celeste Baxendell, for letting me be on the ARC team for this stunning, devastatingly beautiful read!
January 24, 2025
Another thrilling instalment
I received an ARC from the author, but the views expressed here are my own and freely given.
Nadya and Lateo's story continues with all the tumultuousness we've come to expect. Life-threatening situations, revelation, betrayal ... once again, Celeste has created a thriller you can't put down, and this time, we get to experience some of it from Lateo's perspective. I'm already excited for what happens next!
I received an ARC from the author, but the views expressed here are my own and freely given.
Nadya and Lateo's story continues with all the tumultuousness we've come to expect. Life-threatening situations, revelation, betrayal ... once again, Celeste has created a thriller you can't put down, and this time, we get to experience some of it from Lateo's perspective. I'm already excited for what happens next!
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January 27, 2025This series has been enthralling, so many ups and downs and unexpected twists! (and books MUST be read in order!) It was so great to see things from Lateo's point of view, and for Nadiya to finally get a bigger view on what is happening and not just believe what she has been told. But is this the end of their story? No - we have to wait for the next book! I received an ARC but this review is my own.
April 14, 2025
It only took 98% into the 4th book for Nadiya to show any sort of growth. I have kept up with this series in spite of not like Nadiya at all, but she was so exhausting this book, that I almost DNFd. She is so selfish and unlikable. Obviously, I’ll keep reading since there is only 1 book left, and I really do like the series…just not Nadiya. I also feel like this book was too long. I was bored for a good bit of this book.
March 5, 2025
I didn't finish this one because I got lost in trying to figure out the story. I started book two and didn't feel comfortable where it was heading so didn't finish it, but it really needs to be read to understand book three. I love Celeste's books normally, so maybe at a later time books 2 and 3 will make sense to me.
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