Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy

by Mae Camp

In the end, what truly prevails is love... in all its forms.

Enemies fated to be together—an Emperor and fierce warriors challenged by a princess they greatly underestimated. Shields and swords, bonds of blood, a wind goddess, and poetic romance with **explicit steam** in this why-choose romantasy. #ItsJustLove.

Emperor Adrian, the iron-fisted ruler of Torthia, faces a crisis as his ally kingdom of Lyria braces for invasion. In a quick-witted move, Adrian preempts the invasion by claiming Lyria himself. His conquest comes with a reconnection to the spitfire Princess Catherine. She’s young, stunning, spirited, and the sole heir to Lyria’s throne – she’s also the key for Adrian and his ten fearsome Elite warriors to unite both kingdoms.

But with Adrian steeped in Torthian traditions and Princess Catherine’s Lyrian heritage, their cultures and methods inevitably clash. Yet war looms on the horizon, and they must learn to coexist to lead their kingdoms to victory.

For Catherine, this means sacrificing her freedom and embracing the Torthian ways – including the rugged Torthian warriors and her inexplicable affection for all of them.

This is Book One of the Winds of Ericiel series—a why-choose epic romantic fantasy that solidifies the notion that “It’s just Love.”

Content Winds of Ericiel is a historical fantasy set during a time of shorter life expectancies and earlier marriages for women, which contrasts with most modern cultures.

This romantasy is a why-choose tale of love and survival amidst a great war, featuring scenes of power exchange, descriptive sexual encounters, and violence that may unsettle some readers.

Genres: Romantasy, Fantasy, Romance

612 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2024

Reviews

[Ja Noir Filine · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Captivating Journey in Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy

Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy by Mae Camp is a mesmerizing blend of political intrigue, romance, and fantasy that transports readers to a vividly crafted world of warring kingdoms. As I delved into the story, I was captivated by Princess Catherine's strength and resourcefulness. Caught in a tumultuous landscape dominated by her conflicting feelings for Emperor Adrian, the narrative dances between tension and romance, making each page turn a thrilling experience.
What truly sets this novel apart is its intricate world-building and the depth of its characters. The diverse personalities, particularly in Catherine’s relationships, kept me engaged and invested. The unique "why-choose" romance adds layers to her journey, challenging traditional notions of love and loyalty. The themes of sacrifice, duty, and personal growth resonated deeply with me, as did the rich cultural contrasts that shaped the characters' struggles.
For those who may not typically explore historical fantasy, this book offers a refreshing escape filled with action, unexpected twists, and a compelling romance that feels both genuine and empowering. If you're seeking a new adventure that combines heart and heroism, Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy is an unforgettable start to a promising series. I can't wait for the next installment!

[Bruce Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mae Camp's Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy is a thrilling historical fantasy that transports readers to a world of warring kingdoms and forbidden love. The novel follows Princess Catherine of Lyria as she finds herself caught in a dangerous game of political maneuvering when her kingdom is invaded by the powerful Emperor Adrian of Torthia.

Key strengths of the novel:

• Intricate world-building: Camp has crafted a richly detailed world with complex political dynamics and fascinating cultural nuances.
• Compelling characters: Catherine and Adrian are both strong and memorable protagonists, with their contrasting personalities and backgrounds adding depth to their relationship.
• Fast-paced plot: The story is filled with action, suspense, and unexpected twists that keep the reader engaged from beginning to end.
• Themes of love, sacrifice, and duty: The novel explores profound themes that resonate with readers on a deeper level.
Potential areas for improvement:
• Character development: While the main characters are well-developed, some of the supporting characters could benefit from more depth.
• Pacing: In a few instances, the pacing might feel slightly uneven, particularly in the slower moments between major plot points.

Overall, Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy is a highly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of historical fantasy and romance. Camp's writing is vivid and engaging, and the characters are sure to stay with readers long after the final page.

[LCB · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Great Fantasy Read!

Really enjoyed this read! I knew I’d enjoy it just by reading the description, but the storytelling and descriptions made this a fully immersive experience. It’s only January 9th, but this may very well end up being one of my favorite reads of the year!

[Anthonia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book. Talk about enemies to lovers in well balance tale. The plot, characters, writing, and the pace of it all was done wonderfully. A must read for any and all book lovers out there.

[Ann Perdew · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic fantasy that is so different that it breaks all of the rules in the genre.

This story is a why-choose romance told in 3rd person from the POV of multiple characters in an almost omniscient flowing narrative.

The author has crafted a beautifully written tale that is almost breathtaking in its eloquence. It is a magical journey to a world of intricately orchestrated intrigues and complex relationships.

At the heart, it is the story of a young orphaned princess just coming of age in a kingdom and world full of treachery and wars. Catherine, while fighting for the safety of the Lyrian people, is destined by prophecy to become the empress of the even more powerful Torthian empire. Lifting her to that position, while simultaneously standing in her way, is a slightly older, but still young moody emperor and his Elite Brotherhood of equally moody warriors.

Catherine's life and plans are turned upside down when the pompous and stubborn Adrian descends on her kingdom with his army in the guise of liberating her from a forced marriage. Only to force her into a marriage with him that turns into way more than she ever bargained for. Due to a horrific attack on their kingdom in the past, Torthian females are in short supply and now join in marriage with multiple partners.

Adrian eventually reveals that Catherine will be required to accept his two troubled friends into their relationship and ultimately into her bed. While Raine harbors a dark sadistic energy inside of him, Leith is a bit of an enigma. Surprisingly, she does start to develop feelings of a sexual nature in some part for all 10 of the Brothers.

All three of these men have dark aspects to their character. Adrian has voyeuristic tendencies, Raine is possessed by a negative sadistic entity, and Leith goes along with his two partners.

The author very effectively transports readers on her own personal Odyssey. I very much enjoyed watching the adventure unfold and can't wait to finish this series.

[B.R. Doughtry · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy', by Mae Camp, brings something eminently readable and enjoyable for a fantasy-loving audience. The characters appear real with complimentary differences. For instance, the young emperor, Adrian, appears to communicate more with his stares and expressions than words. It could be said that much of the story concerns itself with the relations between him and young, headstrong Catherine. Their relations are renewed in a tumultuous way. It’s not always a genial relationship, as might be expected given the precarious circumstances. The circumstances consist of cultural differences between Lyria and Torthia, which can be constant source of tension or curiosity. Torthians gives the impression of being frenetic and domineering, while Lyrians are more festive and appear generally less grim. There are also undertones of power struggles and suspicions between them. It proves challenging for them throughout to get on the same page and align against a common threat.

The fantasy world is richly adorned with picturesque detail and unique characteristics. Certain descriptions of these seafaring places conjure images of Classical Greece and the Mediterranean. I can also sense a similarity with Torthia and the ancient Spartans.

The story's theme revolves around a romance that's replete with twists and turns. Complications arise from a variety of sources, threatening them at moments when solidarity is needed most. The story ends on a kind of cliffhanger to coast into the author’s next book. I half expected it would end in such a way and thought it was needed to up the stakes and amplify the drama.

[C.M. Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy pulled me in far more deeply than I expected, and by the end I was fully invested in both the world and the relationships unfolding within it. This is not a light or casual romantasy. It is layered, intense, and unapologetic about exploring love in complex and unconventional forms. The worldbuilding is rich and immersive, with distinct cultures, traditions, and political tensions that actually matter to the story rather than sitting in the background. You feel the weight of leadership, prophecy, and war in every decision the characters make.

Catherine is a compelling heroine. She is young but not weak, and her emotional growth feels earned rather than rushed. Watching her navigate duty, desire, fear, and power was one of my favorite parts of the book. Adrian is equally fascinating. He is not written as a perfect ruler or love interest, and that imperfection makes him feel real. The Brothers add another layer entirely. Their bond, loyalty, and individual personalities bring depth to the why choose dynamic, which is handled with far more care and intention than I expected. It never feels gratuitous. Instead, it feels tied to culture, survival, and identity.

This book does not shy away from difficult themes, and I appreciated the clear content warnings going in. The romance is intense, emotional, and sometimes uncomfortable in ways that feel deliberate rather than careless. If you enjoy epic fantasy with political intrigue, powerful bonds, and romance that pushes past traditional boundaries, this is absolutely worth picking up. I finished it eager to continue the series and see how prophecy, war, and love continue to collide.

[McCayleigh Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy by Mae Camp is a breathtakingly immersive blend of romance, power, and destiny that will grip you from the very first page. Set in a richly detailed world of warring kingdoms and clashing cultures, this novel weaves an intricate tale of love, sacrifice, and survival.

Emperor Adrian is a formidable ruler, his iron will shaping the fate of nations. Princess Catherine is his equal in spirit—bold, fierce, and caught between duty and desire. Their connection crackles with intensity, drawing the reader into a story where alliances are forged not just in battle, but in the heart. The tension between their opposing traditions adds depth to the narrative, making their journey toward unity both riveting and emotional.

The novel’s "why-choose" dynamic is masterfully written, offering a compelling exploration of love in all its forms. Passionate, evocative, and deeply moving, the relationships between Catherine, Adrian, and the Elite warriors are beautifully complex, each bond tested by war and devotion. The stakes are high, the emotions raw, and every chapter pulses with anticipation.

With lush prose, gripping action, and a romance that defies expectations, Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy is a must-read for fans of epic romantasy. If you crave a story where love, power, and destiny intertwine, this book will leave you utterly spellbound.

[Susan Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winds of Ericiel I – Prophecy by Mae Camp is a great read. There is no doubt that this well-crafted tale will be a winner amongst readers. It traverses genres and offers a compelling read. Intricately woven within the political and social happenings of this magical land, romance and fantasy readers will soon become enchanted with this book.

Our protagonist is the strong, resourceful princess, Catherine. She is the only heir to Lyria’s throne in a time when war looms and dangers are lurking around every corner. However, Catherine is well suited to the task of shoring up her kingdom’s security and finding love. What an amazing role model.

Never a true romance runs smoothly, and the author skilfully juxtaposes her characters in perilous situations and tests their devotion to each other and their respective lands. Loyalties are tested and the reader is kept glued to the pages throughout this novel.

As a three-part series, this tale has a lot to offer. Readers will find themselves drawn into the complex plot twists and lives of the people of this fantasy realm. There is no doubt that these books will become a favourite amongst those who love a legendary love story set amidst a powerful and compelling fantasy world. Highly recommended.

[James Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have just finished reading the book called "Winds of Ericiel I - Prophecy" which is a story that was written by Mae Camp. This is a really good story that does a really good job of weaving elements of magic, adventure, and self-discovery into a gripping narrative. From the very start of the book, I was placed into the world of Ericiel, where the author’s descriptions of everything brought life to it. The story involves a prophecy that moves the story along. The Torthians return home to find most of their women murdered and when they attempt to seek revenge against the enemy their allies beat them to it robbing them of their vengeance. They confront the other king, who is being poisoned, angrily and hear of a prophecy that they will one day save his kingdom. Years later they return to prevent a war and an attack on their homeland. A royal union forms and a delicate alliance that binds the two countries against a common enemy. This is a really good story that a lot of people will enjoy reading and has a follow up book that tells of the war that is coming, can’t wait to read it.

[TheReal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mae Camp's "Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy" presents a fascinating, albeit flawed, fantasy. While the world-building is undeniably captivating, drawing the reader into a realm of warring kingdoms and potent magic, the execution feels uneven. The initial promise of Princess Catherine as a strong and resourceful heroine is somewhat undermined by her frequent objectification, a point several readers have noted and which unfortunately detracts from the narrative’s overall impact. The pacing, described by one reader as “excessively drawn out,” proves to be a stumbling block, occasionally interrupting the thrilling plot involving political intrigue and self-discovery that the book ultimately offers. Despite the unevenness, the core elements of magic, adventure, and romance, woven into a gripping narrative, keep the story compelling for the majority of its length, making it worth reading for fantasy fans, but those sensitive to unrealistic portrayals of female protagonists might want to proceed with caution. Ultimately, “Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy” has a strong foundation, but needs editing and better development around its lead character to realize its full potential.

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

Captivating blend of romance, fantasy, and historical intrigue. The story introduces Emperor Adrian, a resolute ruler driven by a strong sense of duty, and Princess Catherine, a spirited young woman navigating the challenges of her royal lineage and unexpected circumstances. Their relationship evolves amidst a backdrop of cultural clashes and the looming threat of war, creating a compelling enemies-to-lovers dynamic. The storyline includes a vivid world filled with political tension, emotional depth, and richly detailed settings. The contrasting traditions of Torthia and Lyria provide a unique and engaging cultural context. While romance is a central theme of the book, it also explores themes of sacrifice, power, and survival, making it more than just a love story. Note that there is mature content and themes inside, which may not be suitable for all readers. Overall, it's a book that will appeal to readers who enjoy intense romantic fantasies with complex characters and emotionally resonant storylines. It's a promising beginning to a series that invites you to explore the multifaceted nature of love amidst the turmoil of war.

[Sera Drake · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is romantasy done RIGHT. This is not pulpy, rushed-together fairy smut. The world-building in here is impeccable, as is the characterization. I love an author who actually pays attention to detail. (Speaking of detail, check out the beautiful maps).

Adrian and Catherine are both strong characters. At times, Catherine's impetuous, fiery nature flirts with that of the stock "headstrong, stubborn, in need of being tamed" character so common in bodice-rippers, which bordered on the annoying, but she's young. She'll mature.

"Why choose?" is a polyamory trope for worlds that don't use the word "polyamory" (or authors who prefer to depict ethical nonmonogamy outside of the framework of what has become a subcultural standard of chosen family, kitchen tables, carefully balanced schedules, Thursday night polycule gaming night, and prescribed relationship anarchy).

Oh, and someone needs to mention in a review that there's power exchange in here, too. Makes me wonder if Mae Camp is a fan of Jacqueline Carey.

I am going to have to get the entire series. In hard copy. I'm hooked.

[AB · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book plunges readers into a world of political intrigue, cultural clashes, and fiery romance. Emperor Adrian, a formidable ruler with a heart of iron, sets out to conquer the kingdom of Lyria, only to find himself captivated by its fiery princess, Catherine. Their union, born of necessity, becomes a passionate dance between two strong wills as they navigate their individual desires and the weight of their respective kingdoms.

The author masterfully weaves a tale of love and survival against a backdrop of impending war. The clash of Torthian and Lyrian cultures adds a layer of complexity to the romance, forcing Adrian and Catherine to confront their preconceived notions and embrace the unexpected. Be warned, this is a why-choose romance, and the passionate connection between Catherine and Adrian extends to his ten formidable warriors. With its blend of political maneuvering, steamy encounters, and epic battles, "Winds of Ericiel" is a thrilling start to a promising series for readers who crave a romance that defies convention.

[Aaron Goodall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy is an epic romantic fantasy novel, as large in scope as it is in heart. Mae Camp has built a wonderful world filled with danger and excitement, and its customs and lore is both deep and intriguing. The plot feels complex and tangled, in the sense that there is a lot going on, but I found for large parts it was well explained by the author and easy enough to follow.

Catherine and Adrian were two worthy protagonists. They are from different kingdoms with different cultures, expectations and aspirations, but the promises of something between them creates a worthy conflict throughout. This sets them up well as characters, as they are both torn between what is required of them as leaders of their people and what they want for themselves and each other. This internal conflict is never far away and is a thread that underpins the book.

The political drama is intriguing, the war-framed violence compelling, and the characters are rich and diverse. I look forward to more from this series as the ending leaves a lot yet to be uncovered.

[Kindle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable and Well- Written Read
I borrowed Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy using Kindle Unlimited, and I loved it. I was instantly drawn into the world Mae Camp created, full of rich characters and political intrigue. I found Princess Catherine's strength inspiring as she navigates her relationship with Emperor Adrian amidst the backdrop of war. I enjoyed the tension between their cultures and the slow, emotional connection they developed.

I appreciated how Mae Camp brought the world to life with her vivid descriptions and intricate world-building. I liked how the story balanced romance, action, and personal growth, keeping me turning the pages. I admired the unique “why-choose” romance aspect, which added a fresh perspective on love and loyalty.

I couldn’t put the book down because the twists and turns in the plot kept me guessing. I especially enjoyed the balance between emotional depth and thrilling action. I look forward to reading the next installment because this book left me eager for more. I highly recommend it to fans of romantic fantasy.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a fun, delightful, page-turning, and spicy why-choose adventure. I LOVE the chemistry between the characters, the sizzle and steam. I can’t recommend this enough. It’s perfect for spring, summer, winter or fall reading!

Emperor Adrian’s ally kingdom is going to be invaded, so to prevent this, he claims the kingdom of Lyria himself. Princess Catherine is the sole heir to Lyria’s throne. To ward off the invasion, the two must come together, even if it means weathering some culture clashes.

I also enjoyed the humor so much. For example, at the 45% mark in the book, one of the characters, Max, scolds Tomias for making him lose his toothpick. Not to mention, there’s very striking imagery like when Catherine hands Adrian the sprig of lavender. And lastly, I thought Camp did a great job of making each character in a why-choose feel different and fully developed. It’s hard enough to make one character feel three-dimensional, let alone many.

All in all, I whole-heartedly recommend this book. It’s such a fun and fulfilling read.

[Micki Mirello · Rating 5 out of 5]

The world Mae Camp built is wild dragons, magic, epic battles, and a “why-choose” romance that actually works. Adrian and Catherine have so much chemistry, but it’s not just about their romance, it’s all the messy politics, cultural clashes, and deep family stuff wrapped around them that make it all hit harder. Catherine is a force. She’s stubborn, fierce, and won’t back down even when she probably should. Adrian feels like a classic emperor, tough and intimidating, but you get to see his real side as the story goes on. All the Elite warriors keep things exciting, and I liked how each of them had their own thing going on. Even the side characters got some nice moments. The “why-choose” angle gives this a fresh vibe, and honestly the romance gets pretty spicy. But there are tons of sweet and funny scenes too, plus just enough action and plot twists to make it impossible to put down. Sometimes the book hits you with big emotional stuff, but there’s always humor or a great piece of writing to balance it out. The maps in the book are really cool too.

[Yolanda Newton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me of fantasy books I read when I first fell in love with the genre. The worldbuilding is great, and the characters are well thought out. I was drawn to some (oh, those handsome Elite) and repelled by others. It also has layers. Absolutely no spoilers, but you see the undercurrent of a larger story happening right from meeting certain characters (oh, those handsome Elite). It is also very adult-forward. As a grown woman, I look for different things than what I did as a preteen falling in love with the genre--and the book does not disappoint. Yes, there is love and hot, steamy scenes. What I appreciate most is that while it threaded through the story, it is a *part* of the story. The story is not reliant on those scenes, which I appreciate. I totally recommend it, and I plan on reading more of the series.

[Ritika · Rating 5 out of 5]

“It's just love.”

This line lives in my head rent free now. It's the ESSENCE of this book and it affected me enough that I'm getting it tattooed on me soon. This book reminded me why I was addicted to romance novels in the first place.

The writing was so damn addictive it hooked me in right from the prologue. The plot was criminally engaging. But the actual strength of this book was the unbelievable character development. There were a lot of characters (it being a why-choose romance) and Every. Single. One. of them came alive on the pages. You are gonna fall HARD for the boys. I know that for a fact because I'm so in love with them, I'd go to war for them!

It had everything you'll need in a good book and SO MUCH MORE. It's simply a top-tier book. Argue with a wall ✋.

[Kayla Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This had romance and fantasy, which are my two favorite genres! I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, but I ended up really enjoying Winds of Ericiel. The world-building was rich, and I was pulled into the tension between Torthia and Lyria right away. I liked the dynamic between Adrian and Catherine. It was intense, sometimes messy, but always interesting. The “why-choose” element was unexpected for me, but it worked with the story’s themes of loyalty, power, and survival.

There were a few scenes that pushed boundaries, so I appreciated the content warning upfront. This book isn’t for everyone, but if you’re into epic romantasy with political intrigue and bold characters, I think it’s worth a read. I’m curious to see where the next book takes things. I enjoyed this weekend read.

[Lisa Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a riveting story about Princess Catherine’s mission to honor her father’s legacy and protect the realm of Lyria. This stunningly beautiful princess has not only survived against great odds but has also developed keen intelligence and a fierce spirit. She passionately defends her culture and her people.

The enchanting and whimsical culture of the Lyrians stands in stark contrast to the brutality, carnality, and tenderness that define the Torinthians, whose fates are intricately linked to those of the Lyrians. The royal Torinthian brothers reveal complex and troubling aspects of the human psyche in their pursuit of power and control. A kaleidoscope of dramatic intensity unfolds throughout the story!

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story unfolds a vast fantasy world rich in history and political conflict. From the serene imagery of Lyria to the tragic death of King Cyrus, the narrative quickly expands into a struggle for power among empires, with Princess Catherine at its center. At the same time, Emperor Adrian emerges as a complex figure, strong yet wounded, bound by duty and destiny. Intrigues, rebellions, forced marriage alliances, and the looming threat of Ziethen create a tense and multilayered battlefield. The intense scenes, emotional depth, and sharp dialogue make the story compelling, opening the way for a dramatic journey shaped by sorrow, power, and hope.

[Mehmet Çalışkan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mae Camp’s Winds of Ericiel I: Prophecy offers an epic romantic fantasy narrative aimed at adult readers. The story focuses on the process through which two kingdoms unite under the threat of war, brought together by a forced conquest, marriage, and an ancient prophecy involving Torthian Emperor Adrian and Princess Catherine, the heir of Lyria. Camp’s balanced handling of themes such as political tension, cultural differences, ancient traditions, multiple relationships, power dynamics, and loyalty were the elements that made the story engaging and fluid for me. I believe readers who enjoy the genre will find this book to be an appealing start to a series.

[Maddison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Winds of Ericiel is such an awesome read—it had me hooked right from the start! The plot was packed with suspense and surprises, and I loved that the romance and spice didn’t take over but fit perfectly into the story. The characters were all so interesting but I especially loved Cathy and watching her grow. The world-building was really well done, creating a vivid, detailed setting that pulled me in. Overall, Winds of Ericiel is an exciting and beautifully written story that left me wanting more!

[Rachel Christensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The mix of intense battle scenes and steamy romance kept me flipping pages way past bedtime.

The relationship tension felt realistic which often in romance narratives can lose me when it feels a bit far fetched of under developed/rushed. I loved seeing the character development as things got tougher.

The world building was vivid; you can practically feel the gift and chaos of war, but there's still so much heart.

If you want a story that's both emotional and action-packed, this one totally delivers it.

[C · Rating 3 out of 5]

Dnf’ed at 32%. I give the author a ton of credit; the world building and stage setting was very well done. After four hours of reading this book I finally threw in the towel. I could not get hooked. It’s a politically charged, kingdom against kingdom type of book that reminded me a lot of game of thrones. And the spice level is 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ without having to wait all the way until the end.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Winds Of Ericiel I: Prophecy felt like stepping into another world. I found myself imagining the landscapes, feeling the tension of the prophecy, and connecting with the characters’ struggles. It was the perfect book to get lost in after a long day, and it left me eager to continue the journey in the next volume.

[Jagdish Arora · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enthralling blend of love, loyalty, and looming war.
Princess Catherine’s spirited defiance perfectly balances Emperor Adrian’s commanding presence.
A captivating entry into the Winds of Ericiel series that leaves readers eager for more.