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Twin Blades
The Warrior Queen, the Protector of Innocents… fights in seedy taverns and picks pockets for the highest bidder.
But her people have been rebuilding from near eradication. And after a century of running, Meline returns home at the request of the only family she has left. They’ve built a kingdom from ashes and connected with other leaders to give them all a fresh start, but they are still under attack with the threat of another slaughter on the rise.
So, to atone for her sins, Meline agrees to travel to faraway lands and persuade more to her family’s cause. Even if the agreement demands she take a personal guard. But not all is as it seems, and her Shadow is hiding a secret of his own.
Through homecoming and redemption, Meline finds herself leaning on her companion as they face tense negotiations, assassins, and the mysterious powers of a dark Goddess. But will it be enough to confront the person she once was and conquer Death? Or will it lead to the ruin of those she loves most and the future of her people?
But her people have been rebuilding from near eradication. And after a century of running, Meline returns home at the request of the only family she has left. They’ve built a kingdom from ashes and connected with other leaders to give them all a fresh start, but they are still under attack with the threat of another slaughter on the rise.
So, to atone for her sins, Meline agrees to travel to faraway lands and persuade more to her family’s cause. Even if the agreement demands she take a personal guard. But not all is as it seems, and her Shadow is hiding a secret of his own.
Through homecoming and redemption, Meline finds herself leaning on her companion as they face tense negotiations, assassins, and the mysterious powers of a dark Goddess. But will it be enough to confront the person she once was and conquer Death? Or will it lead to the ruin of those she loves most and the future of her people?
566 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2024
59 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
About the author
Noelle Upton
10 books58 followersNoelle Upton is an indie author and lover of fantasy, romance, and dark tales. When she's not writing or reading, Noelle enjoys dancing, chatting with friends over good food, and laughing with her husband. Her two series, Twin Blades and A Light in the Dark, are ongoing.
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October 29, 2023"If I bled, he would bleed as well."
An action-packed tale of adventure, intrigue, and romance.
Meline fights for coin in seedy taverns, picks pockets, and looks good while doing it. She's known as the Warrior Queen, the Protector of Innocents.
This book has:
✅️ fierce fmc
✅️ spice (f-f, m-f)
✅️ enemies to lovers
✅️ bodyguard romance (one room!)
✅️ political intrigue
✅️ world building
✅️ character development
✅️ the grief of losing your loved ones, and losing yourself
TWs: violence, substance use, smut, grief themes, gore
While I did find the beginning a little slow, the story soon took off (especially after Elián was introduced! The tension was delicious). The writing improved throughout the book, and this debut author has proved her promising capabilities for writing a book that you won't want to put down.
Congratulations to the author for an interesting debut novel!
Happy reading! 😊
ARC received in exchange for review.
An action-packed tale of adventure, intrigue, and romance.
Meline fights for coin in seedy taverns, picks pockets, and looks good while doing it. She's known as the Warrior Queen, the Protector of Innocents.
This book has:
✅️ fierce fmc
✅️ spice (f-f, m-f)
✅️ enemies to lovers
✅️ bodyguard romance (one room!)
✅️ political intrigue
✅️ world building
✅️ character development
✅️ the grief of losing your loved ones, and losing yourself
TWs: violence, substance use, smut, grief themes, gore
While I did find the beginning a little slow, the story soon took off (especially after Elián was introduced! The tension was delicious). The writing improved throughout the book, and this debut author has proved her promising capabilities for writing a book that you won't want to put down.
Congratulations to the author for an interesting debut novel!
Happy reading! 😊
ARC received in exchange for review.
November 27, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️.5
a stunning debut romantasy book filled with lots of action, adventure, & slow built up tension!
the beginning felt very slow & i struggled to get into it, but i wanted to wait until the main MMC arrived before giving up. i’m so glad i waited, Elián is so worth it. and the mouth on this man? DELICIOUS.
meline is strong, badass, everything you come to expect in an amazing romantasy book. she’s sassy, confident yet humble, loyal, and loves deeply. the world building & plot are very very good here. the twists toward the end are slightly predictable yet not. spice is fantastic. i loved this one & the ending? broke my heart! i need book two ASAP.
🩸tropes & themes🩸
🩸lots of bipoc rep
🩸 lgbtq+ rep
🩸 goddesses
🩸 magic
🩸 found family
🩸 political intrigue
🩸 enemies to lovers
🩸 body guard romance
🩸 spiceeeeee (f/f & m/f)
tw: grief, violence & murder, depression
thank you to the author for gifting me the book in return for an honest review!
🌶️🌶️.5
a stunning debut romantasy book filled with lots of action, adventure, & slow built up tension!
the beginning felt very slow & i struggled to get into it, but i wanted to wait until the main MMC arrived before giving up. i’m so glad i waited, Elián is so worth it. and the mouth on this man? DELICIOUS.
meline is strong, badass, everything you come to expect in an amazing romantasy book. she’s sassy, confident yet humble, loyal, and loves deeply. the world building & plot are very very good here. the twists toward the end are slightly predictable yet not. spice is fantastic. i loved this one & the ending? broke my heart! i need book two ASAP.
🩸tropes & themes🩸
🩸lots of bipoc rep
🩸 lgbtq+ rep
🩸 goddesses
🩸 magic
🩸 found family
🩸 political intrigue
🩸 enemies to lovers
🩸 body guard romance
🩸 spiceeeeee (f/f & m/f)
tw: grief, violence & murder, depression
thank you to the author for gifting me the book in return for an honest review!
October 31, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ This is probably one of the best debut novels I have read. The detail in the writing, the story and the characters is amazing. The way that the story is written sucks you in and really puts you right there with Meline.
Also the way that the story touches on the grief that Meline goes through with losing those closest to her and the grief of losing herself. Seeing her grow and learn about herself was really awesome. Love my girl Meline.
Everyone’s got a little secret so it really keeps you on your toes. I can not wait for the next book to see what they all get up to!
Also the way that the story touches on the grief that Meline goes through with losing those closest to her and the grief of losing herself. Seeing her grow and learn about herself was really awesome. Love my girl Meline.
Everyone’s got a little secret so it really keeps you on your toes. I can not wait for the next book to see what they all get up to!
dnf-2025
February 14, 2025DNF 9% sadly I feel like I’m trudging through the writing. Pretty violent.
October 9, 2023
Nothing I write will do this book justice, but I’ll try because I think all the romance and fantasy peeps (honestly everyone) need to read this book. I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll keep it short and to the point! The world building, the attention to detail, the smut (I think she’s easing us into it with her first book), the interactions and the love so clearly and uniquely depicted between the characters are all so beautifully and well written. If this is the first book of the series AND her first book ever, I can’t wait for what she’ll be releasing in the future.
January 8, 2024
I can’t believe this is a debut novel. This one is SO GOOD. Not saying debut novels can’t be good (obviously MANY are), but with it also being fantasy, I am just thoroughly impressed and in awe. Love love this one!!
Cover? Gorgeous 💖
Writing? So detailed and well-done 🫶
The characters? 😙👌
If you like Xaden in Fourth Wing, you’ll love the shadow in this one. And that ending 😭 pain, all I feel is painnnn. I would love the next one please, like now 😝
Thank you Noelle for the copy, I really enjoyed it!
Cover? Gorgeous 💖
Writing? So detailed and well-done 🫶
The characters? 😙👌
If you like Xaden in Fourth Wing, you’ll love the shadow in this one. And that ending 😭 pain, all I feel is painnnn. I would love the next one please, like now 😝
Thank you Noelle for the copy, I really enjoyed it!
October 28, 2023
I am excited to see where this story goes. The cast of characters are interesting, the love story is believable, and the spice is 10/10. I gave this book a 4/5 stars as I felt there were several instances where there was too much description and a lot of extra words to get certain points across. The beginning is a little slow but once it gets going, I didn’t want to put it down.
October 23, 2024
Anniversary Edition ARC Review
3.5
This was an interesting tale that really took its time to build. But the moment where the rivals become lovers was extraordinary sweet. The single pov about drove me nuts and the plot was way to slow developing for my personal tastes. However, the world building was different and new and enjoyable. Outside of the pacing I enjoyed Upton’s narrative voice. While I loath single pov the majority of the time Meline was a reliable and effective narrator which made the read enjoyable enough. I’m definitely looking forward to Book 2 since it will be dual pov. This story ends on a to be continued and while I understand Meline’s point I’m only siding with her out of sisterhood solidarity!
3.5
This was an interesting tale that really took its time to build. But the moment where the rivals become lovers was extraordinary sweet. The single pov about drove me nuts and the plot was way to slow developing for my personal tastes. However, the world building was different and new and enjoyable. Outside of the pacing I enjoyed Upton’s narrative voice. While I loath single pov the majority of the time Meline was a reliable and effective narrator which made the read enjoyable enough. I’m definitely looking forward to Book 2 since it will be dual pov. This story ends on a to be continued and while I understand Meline’s point I’m only siding with her out of sisterhood solidarity!
September 11, 2025
DNF at 17%. I really tried with this one. The opening scene was so good, I had such high hopes. Unfortunately, this book could've used a lot of heavy editing before publication. Why do we spend three whole pages just showering and doing hair? And the inciting incident doesn't happen until the end of Chapter 3. So much description on mundane, irrelevant tasks, the story itself gets lost.
Respect to the people who were able to trudge through the entire beginning of the book to get to the part where it apparently "gets going" because that is no small task. At 17%, it still feels like the story has barely started.
I think the book has a lot of potential, and I imagine that this author has amazing stories inside of them, but they need to work on their editing skills and/or hire out to someone who isn't afraid to hurt their feelings.
Respect to the people who were able to trudge through the entire beginning of the book to get to the part where it apparently "gets going" because that is no small task. At 17%, it still feels like the story has barely started.
I think the book has a lot of potential, and I imagine that this author has amazing stories inside of them, but they need to work on their editing skills and/or hire out to someone who isn't afraid to hurt their feelings.
September 19, 2024
For readers who enjoyed Vela Roth's Blood Mercy series and S. M. Gaither's Flame & Sparrow, you will absolutely adore Twin Blades! This book defines perfection in romantasy and I'm so, so happy I found it! If you are always chasing that perfect blend of high fantasy world building, narrative driven stories, epic stakes with heart-pounding plot, an FMC with kick-ass powers, romance to die for and delicious spice, pick this book up. Do yourself and favour and choose. this. book!
Noelle Upton is a unique, addictive, captivating new voice in romantasy and this book is quality. Twins Blades was like nothing I've ever read before and I've gone back to re-read parts because I wasn't ready to let it go! This is one of my top reads of 2024.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ Ancient gods bestowing world shaking powers
✅ Political intrigue with a dash of "whodunnit"
✅ Shadow daddy but make it fire
✅ Morally grey FMC (Think Book of Azreal)
✅ Slow burn (he's mad he's obsessed)
✅ Chosen one redemption arc
✅ Bodyguard trope
✅ Epic fantasy world building (vampires!)
✅ They're both bi
✅ darker themes but a bright world (this is NA)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
The romance is just that good: The banter, the slow falling for each other, the chemistry, the connection these two had made this one of the most enjoyable romances I had ever read. Their vibe is a little grumpy/sunshine, but they have this amazing sense of reluctant teamwork that grows into an "it's a you-before-all-others" story (with a hint of fated mates) that was completely addictive. They are both "chosen one" characters who are powerful and buckling under the weight and responsibility of their powers - so they immediately connect and empathize deeply with each other! The burn was slow, but the pay off was HOT. This romance is all about the feminine gaze - while the spice was excellent, Upton breaks your heart and puts it together again in memorable, tangible, unique romantic details that make their story unbearably sweet. Is there a scene where he heats up her cold cup of tea? I can neither confirm nor deny.
The polish on this book: The prose of this book was so mature, so confident and so polished. Because the technical writing is so excellent, you can sink easily into the story, barely even noticing you are reading text. The scenes are lush, the plot and pacing masterful, the tone is that of an experienced author. The last 10% of this book is bonkers and the pace increases throughout to support the climax. The world is revealed to you piece by piece - Twin Blades is so intelligently written. Upton keeps her cards very close to the chest and you are connecting this dots together in the world, the magical lore and history throughout the story. This book is the epitome of "show, don't tell". The pages go so quickly and I found myself 60% in suddenly realizing that I knew only 1 out of 6 gods and almost none of the MMC's backstory except for the name of his country (and that was SO hard won!). For readers who love chewing on thick, rewarding epic fantasy romance, you will be FED.
Fantasy world nothing like you've read before: You have never seen a world or read a story like this before, believe me. The feel/tenor of this world is so unique to this author, but it's fabulous to be in - bright, alluring, full of sensory experience. The lore of the gods is incredible and the god-chosen characters with incredible powers? SO COOL. Not only was the lore totally refreshing, but Upton's style, her characters and her approach to romantasy as a genre is unabashedly her own. Will she mix a LBD and a society without electricity? Absolutely! And why not? It reminds me a little of K. F. Breene's romantasy books - there are so many classic tropes mixed together in a blender with no reverence and it's fabulous! Will her character smoke weed, ride horses as transport and visit street food markets for spiced mango? You bet. Somehow, Upton pulls this off as if it is the most natural thing in the world. Her writing style makes makes the modernity of her story (diverse characters, diverse nations, sexual and gender inclusion, to name a few) seamlessly fit into a fantasy world with witches, gods, magical races and a tavern or two.
Deeply fleshed out characters:: The backbone of a fantasy romance is complex characters who grow throughout the story. Meline and Elian are such multi-faceted, real people who are hundreds of years old (and act like it!). They have deep morally grey backstories that are sloooooowly revealed and (my favorite) have moments of emotional growth that are SO satisfying. Also, Elian has a real "he falls first" moment realizing he's crazy about Meline and crawls out of his emotionally stiff facade - that moment alone is worth reading this book! There is an extensive cast of fleshed out characters, you become deeply attached to them all - they support the main characters impeccably so the story feels full, rich and engaging.
Literally page-turning: This book was so exciting, ya'll. The plot made so much sense - it's an intricate political intrigue with a whodunnit murder mystery and kidnapping. The twist at the end...
I can't believe how criminally under-hyped the book is. Noelle Upton is SO GOOD. She is a real undiscovered talent and in a sea of romantasy choices, this is the gem you are looking for, promise! Everyone I've recommended this to has immediately loved it! I desperately need book 2, so spread it like wildfire!
Noelle Upton is a unique, addictive, captivating new voice in romantasy and this book is quality. Twins Blades was like nothing I've ever read before and I've gone back to re-read parts because I wasn't ready to let it go! This is one of my top reads of 2024.
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
✅ Ancient gods bestowing world shaking powers
✅ Political intrigue with a dash of "whodunnit"
✅ Shadow daddy but make it fire
✅ Morally grey FMC (Think Book of Azreal)
✅ Slow burn (he's mad he's obsessed)
✅ Chosen one redemption arc
✅ Bodyguard trope
✅ Epic fantasy world building (vampires!)
✅ They're both bi
✅ darker themes but a bright world (this is NA)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
The romance is just that good: The banter, the slow falling for each other, the chemistry, the connection these two had made this one of the most enjoyable romances I had ever read. Their vibe is a little grumpy/sunshine, but they have this amazing sense of reluctant teamwork that grows into an "it's a you-before-all-others" story (with a hint of fated mates) that was completely addictive. They are both "chosen one" characters who are powerful and buckling under the weight and responsibility of their powers - so they immediately connect and empathize deeply with each other! The burn was slow, but the pay off was HOT. This romance is all about the feminine gaze - while the spice was excellent, Upton breaks your heart and puts it together again in memorable, tangible, unique romantic details that make their story unbearably sweet. Is there a scene where he heats up her cold cup of tea? I can neither confirm nor deny.
The polish on this book: The prose of this book was so mature, so confident and so polished. Because the technical writing is so excellent, you can sink easily into the story, barely even noticing you are reading text. The scenes are lush, the plot and pacing masterful, the tone is that of an experienced author. The last 10% of this book is bonkers and the pace increases throughout to support the climax. The world is revealed to you piece by piece - Twin Blades is so intelligently written. Upton keeps her cards very close to the chest and you are connecting this dots together in the world, the magical lore and history throughout the story. This book is the epitome of "show, don't tell". The pages go so quickly and I found myself 60% in suddenly realizing that I knew only 1 out of 6 gods and almost none of the MMC's backstory except for the name of his country (and that was SO hard won!). For readers who love chewing on thick, rewarding epic fantasy romance, you will be FED.
Fantasy world nothing like you've read before: You have never seen a world or read a story like this before, believe me. The feel/tenor of this world is so unique to this author, but it's fabulous to be in - bright, alluring, full of sensory experience. The lore of the gods is incredible and the god-chosen characters with incredible powers? SO COOL. Not only was the lore totally refreshing, but Upton's style, her characters and her approach to romantasy as a genre is unabashedly her own. Will she mix a LBD and a society without electricity? Absolutely! And why not? It reminds me a little of K. F. Breene's romantasy books - there are so many classic tropes mixed together in a blender with no reverence and it's fabulous! Will her character smoke weed, ride horses as transport and visit street food markets for spiced mango? You bet. Somehow, Upton pulls this off as if it is the most natural thing in the world. Her writing style makes makes the modernity of her story (diverse characters, diverse nations, sexual and gender inclusion, to name a few) seamlessly fit into a fantasy world with witches, gods, magical races and a tavern or two.
Deeply fleshed out characters:: The backbone of a fantasy romance is complex characters who grow throughout the story. Meline and Elian are such multi-faceted, real people who are hundreds of years old (and act like it!). They have deep morally grey backstories that are sloooooowly revealed and (my favorite) have moments of emotional growth that are SO satisfying. Also, Elian has a real "he falls first" moment realizing he's crazy about Meline and crawls out of his emotionally stiff facade - that moment alone is worth reading this book! There is an extensive cast of fleshed out characters, you become deeply attached to them all - they support the main characters impeccably so the story feels full, rich and engaging.
Literally page-turning: This book was so exciting, ya'll. The plot made so much sense - it's an intricate political intrigue with a whodunnit murder mystery and kidnapping. The twist at the end...
I can't believe how criminally under-hyped the book is. Noelle Upton is SO GOOD. She is a real undiscovered talent and in a sea of romantasy choices, this is the gem you are looking for, promise! Everyone I've recommended this to has immediately loved it! I desperately need book 2, so spread it like wildfire!
December 8, 2024
4 ⭐️
Worldbuilding: 3/5 🌎
Characters: 3.5/5 👥
Plot: 4/5 🧠
Writing: 4/5 ✍️
Spice Quantity: 5/5 🔥
Spice Quality: 4.75/5 🥵
Romance Quality: 4.5/5 ♥️
Romance Quantity: 3/5💗
Tropes/Topics:
🥀Vampires
🥀Enemies to lovers
🥀Forced proximity
🥀 Grumpy MMC (with Vessel from Sleep Token vibes)
🥀Diverse characters (pansexual, queer, nonbinary)
The story pulled me in right away. The world and characters were alluring, and the narrative had a captivating quality that kept me turning pages. Meline, the FMC, was both likeable and relatable, which made it easy to root for her.
When the Shadow/Elian was introduced, the story really hit its stride. Their journey to Meline’s mother’s homeland was a highlight for me. The angst, the tension, and the subtle longing between them made this section so compelling. I found myself fully invested in their dynamic.
However, the story lost some of its spark once they returned to the family’s kingdom. Their relationship began to feel too rushed, like they skipped over the development and went straight to instalove. The smut, while well-written, started to feel excessive at that point and overshadowed the intrigue.
Speaking of the intrigue, the big reveal had potential but didn’t quite land for me. The climax felt underwhelming, and the ending left me frustrated. The whole “you must choose me or the shadows” conflict felt forced and didn’t make much sense. It was hard to empathize with either character at that point, and their decisions made me resent them both a little. The changing povs also were a bit confusing since 90% of the book is Melines POV and then jumps between multiple characters two wards the end.
That said, the story still has a lot of potential, and I’m curious to see where the author takes it in the next book. There is something undeniably gripping about the world and the characters, even if this installment didn’t fully stick the landing.
A promising indie debut with strong characters, inclusive representation, and a compelling start. While the latter half faltered, I’m still excited to continue the series and see how the story unfolds!
Worldbuilding: 3/5 🌎
Characters: 3.5/5 👥
Plot: 4/5 🧠
Writing: 4/5 ✍️
Spice Quantity: 5/5 🔥
Spice Quality: 4.75/5 🥵
Romance Quality: 4.5/5 ♥️
Romance Quantity: 3/5💗
Tropes/Topics:
🥀Vampires
🥀Enemies to lovers
🥀Forced proximity
🥀 Grumpy MMC (with Vessel from Sleep Token vibes)
🥀Diverse characters (pansexual, queer, nonbinary)
The story pulled me in right away. The world and characters were alluring, and the narrative had a captivating quality that kept me turning pages. Meline, the FMC, was both likeable and relatable, which made it easy to root for her.
When the Shadow/Elian was introduced, the story really hit its stride. Their journey to Meline’s mother’s homeland was a highlight for me. The angst, the tension, and the subtle longing between them made this section so compelling. I found myself fully invested in their dynamic.
However, the story lost some of its spark once they returned to the family’s kingdom. Their relationship began to feel too rushed, like they skipped over the development and went straight to instalove. The smut, while well-written, started to feel excessive at that point and overshadowed the intrigue.
Speaking of the intrigue, the big reveal had potential but didn’t quite land for me. The climax felt underwhelming, and the ending left me frustrated. The whole “you must choose me or the shadows” conflict felt forced and didn’t make much sense. It was hard to empathize with either character at that point, and their decisions made me resent them both a little. The changing povs also were a bit confusing since 90% of the book is Melines POV and then jumps between multiple characters two wards the end.
That said, the story still has a lot of potential, and I’m curious to see where the author takes it in the next book. There is something undeniably gripping about the world and the characters, even if this installment didn’t fully stick the landing.
A promising indie debut with strong characters, inclusive representation, and a compelling start. While the latter half faltered, I’m still excited to continue the series and see how the story unfolds!
August 26, 2025
From the very first page, this book throws you into a wild, no-seatbelt kind of ride.. like.. seriously not even a five-point harness could save you from the emotional impact ahead. You're instantly pulled into a world brimming with passion, betrayal, secrets, and immortals—oh my! And yes, everything is connected by blood. Whether it's for nutrition, treachery, or a little ahem intimacy, let me just say: it was all delicious.
This is a fantasy that's actually easy to follow (thank the book gods), which I appreciated deeply because we’re talking over 500 pages here. The characters? Multi-dimensional with layers like emotional onions. The romance? A slow burn. Like, slow. The kind where the conflict shows up early, sets up camp, and refuses to leave. But don’t worry, when the enemies-to-lovers moment finally arrives, it’s so charged with passion I was mentally fanning myself and blushing like I had any business being involved. Just a reminder though: this is an action fantasy first, with romantic sprinkles. Heavy character development dominates until about the 80% mark, then the romance peeks out, stabs us in the heart (rude), and vanishes again.
My one teeny-tiny hang-up? It’s all told from a single POV. I get it our FMC is the key to understanding this world, and she carries that burden well. But there were moments when I was craving a peek inside someone else’s head. Just a little POV support from the rest of the crew would’ve helped me get my bearings in some of the more complex scenes.
This is a fantasy that's actually easy to follow (thank the book gods), which I appreciated deeply because we’re talking over 500 pages here. The characters? Multi-dimensional with layers like emotional onions. The romance? A slow burn. Like, slow. The kind where the conflict shows up early, sets up camp, and refuses to leave. But don’t worry, when the enemies-to-lovers moment finally arrives, it’s so charged with passion I was mentally fanning myself and blushing like I had any business being involved. Just a reminder though: this is an action fantasy first, with romantic sprinkles. Heavy character development dominates until about the 80% mark, then the romance peeks out, stabs us in the heart (rude), and vanishes again.
My one teeny-tiny hang-up? It’s all told from a single POV. I get it our FMC is the key to understanding this world, and she carries that burden well. But there were moments when I was craving a peek inside someone else’s head. Just a little POV support from the rest of the crew would’ve helped me get my bearings in some of the more complex scenes.
November 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝑵𝒐𝒘, 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒇*𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔.”
I am a vampire girlie, and I absolutely devoured both of the A Light in the Dark series, so I absolutely had to read Noelle’s debut novel.
First things first: I love Meline. She is the Shadow Mommy of my dreams. She is tough, snarky, and an absolute menace. Her backstory is absolutely nightmarish and complex, but I can’t wait to see how the drama between the Lylithans and Vyrkos plays out in the next book. There’s lots of Feminine Rage™️ in here so if that’s what you’re needing right now, Meline will deliver.
And then there is Elián: big brooding bodyguard extraordinaire. He takes his job as a Shadow very seriously, and can barely handle how very unserious Meline can be. Their interactions are hilarious and so hot. (That slow burn pays off big time🔥).
The worldbuilding is very interesting and multifaceted. There are both born (Lylithan) and made (Vyrkos) vampires and lots of magic. I had such a great time and need the next installment IMMEDIATELY, please and thank you.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒏'𝒔 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏, 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“𝑵𝒐𝒘, 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒇*𝒄𝒌𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔.”
I am a vampire girlie, and I absolutely devoured both of the A Light in the Dark series, so I absolutely had to read Noelle’s debut novel.
First things first: I love Meline. She is the Shadow Mommy of my dreams. She is tough, snarky, and an absolute menace. Her backstory is absolutely nightmarish and complex, but I can’t wait to see how the drama between the Lylithans and Vyrkos plays out in the next book. There’s lots of Feminine Rage™️ in here so if that’s what you’re needing right now, Meline will deliver.
And then there is Elián: big brooding bodyguard extraordinaire. He takes his job as a Shadow very seriously, and can barely handle how very unserious Meline can be. Their interactions are hilarious and so hot. (That slow burn pays off big time🔥).
The worldbuilding is very interesting and multifaceted. There are both born (Lylithan) and made (Vyrkos) vampires and lots of magic. I had such a great time and need the next installment IMMEDIATELY, please and thank you.
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒏'𝒔 𝒆𝒚𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆, 𝒎𝒂𝒅𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒃𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏, 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒄𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒇𝒊𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝒎𝒚 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍.
November 7, 2023
I really wish I were reading the second book right now because I am so invested in Meline's story!! This book is everything I want out of a fantasy novel:
- FMC with a past
- hot hot hot and dimensional MMC
- detailed world-building
- authentic romance
- unexpected twists
- realistic character development
~Some Spoilers~
I can't wait to see how Meline, El, and Tana will grapple with their grief, their betrayals, and how they will be reborn after the literal and figurative fires and destruction at the end of the book. I was gutted by the ending, but damn, Upton has set these characters up in such a way that you know that the next part of their journey will be emotional and well-earned. I loved it.
- FMC with a past
- hot hot hot and dimensional MMC
- detailed world-building
- authentic romance
- unexpected twists
- realistic character development
~Some Spoilers~
I can't wait to see how Meline, El, and Tana will grapple with their grief, their betrayals, and how they will be reborn after the literal and figurative fires and destruction at the end of the book. I was gutted by the ending, but damn, Upton has set these characters up in such a way that you know that the next part of their journey will be emotional and well-earned. I loved it.
March 13, 2025
I loved every single minute of this book. I think the pacing was great; the tense build up to the end of the story and the way information was revealed not to mention the spicy spice romance that was explosive yet sweet. It was amazing! Our FMC wields shadows, is morally grey, queer AND black what more could you ask for? During their journey she falls for the hot AF (literally) broody and mysterious bodyguard Elián.
I was hesitant to start this because it’s book 1 in a series and the sequel isn’t out yet with no details on how many books this will be but, I don’t regret it at all! It’s the best most fun, exciting, emotional writing I’ve read in a long time. I’ll definitely be checking out other books by this author while we await book 2.
I was hesitant to start this because it’s book 1 in a series and the sequel isn’t out yet with no details on how many books this will be but, I don’t regret it at all! It’s the best most fun, exciting, emotional writing I’ve read in a long time. I’ll definitely be checking out other books by this author while we await book 2.
November 2, 2023
Debut novel from Noelle Upton and I was pleasantly surprised how immersed I was in the world building and in our FMC. It did take me a little while to get into the story and piece together what was going on but once I did?! It was game on. When the story picked up it just kept going.
Can we talk about Elián for a second to just appreciate him? I could just eat him uppppp! I loved the different aspects of family woven throughout the book and the sense of finding your true home and who you’re supposed to be.
Thank you Noelle for allowing me an ARC of this story, the ending absolutely broke my heart.
Can we talk about Elián for a second to just appreciate him? I could just eat him uppppp! I loved the different aspects of family woven throughout the book and the sense of finding your true home and who you’re supposed to be.
Thank you Noelle for allowing me an ARC of this story, the ending absolutely broke my heart.
January 28, 2024
Fourth book and first fantasy teas of the year completed and it was amazing. I’m not an avid fantasy reader, so world building usually throws me off, but this one didn’t. She built the world around the characters and their dialogue rather than the other way around.
The characters are strong and badass our FMC Meline, in particular, I can’t get enough of. The POC and Queer rep was phenomenal and the romance/spice was on point.
The wit, banter, and bickering are top notch. Noelle Upton has created something amazing here with these characters and I cannot wait to read about their next adventure book 2.
The characters are strong and badass our FMC Meline, in particular, I can’t get enough of. The POC and Queer rep was phenomenal and the romance/spice was on point.
The wit, banter, and bickering are top notch. Noelle Upton has created something amazing here with these characters and I cannot wait to read about their next adventure book 2.
November 14, 2024
“𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕’𝒔 𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕, 𝒗𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒈𝒊𝒓𝒍. 𝑻𝒂𝒌𝒆 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒓𝒆 𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒅.”
Let me just say that Noelle Upton never disappoints! This is the third book I've read by her and I'm always hooked! She never fails to immerse me in a story and break my heart (& [HOPEFULLY] put it back together) and Twin Blades is no different!
Meline and Elian and their slow burn, enemies-to-lovers, sexual tension was 🔥🔥 and when that burn finally ignited.....👀🥵
I really enjoyed this book & I'm happy the next one is coming next year! If you like paranormal romance with vampire-like characters, who are also assassins, who ALSO have powers given by the Goddesses, you might like this!
Let me just say that Noelle Upton never disappoints! This is the third book I've read by her and I'm always hooked! She never fails to immerse me in a story and break my heart (& [HOPEFULLY] put it back together) and Twin Blades is no different!
Meline and Elian and their slow burn, enemies-to-lovers, sexual tension was 🔥🔥 and when that burn finally ignited.....👀🥵
I really enjoyed this book & I'm happy the next one is coming next year! If you like paranormal romance with vampire-like characters, who are also assassins, who ALSO have powers given by the Goddesses, you might like this!
August 24, 2025
Top-notch enemies to lovers!
I am very picky with this trope because, in most cases, I find the switch from enemies to lovers too abrupt or coming in play too soon. This book? Perfect timing and execution for my tastes.
Also, where TF have I been that it took me this long to pick up a Noelle Upton book? The storytelling is absolutely amazing! Everyone should be yelling from the rooftops about this author. I definitely will from now on.
Highly recommend to romantasy lovers who enjoy strong characters, unique worldbuilding, and overall great writing.
I am very picky with this trope because, in most cases, I find the switch from enemies to lovers too abrupt or coming in play too soon. This book? Perfect timing and execution for my tastes.
Also, where TF have I been that it took me this long to pick up a Noelle Upton book? The storytelling is absolutely amazing! Everyone should be yelling from the rooftops about this author. I definitely will from now on.
Highly recommend to romantasy lovers who enjoy strong characters, unique worldbuilding, and overall great writing.
August 15, 2025
This was a sequel I adored even more then the first book! I loved the tension, politics, multiple POV, and allll the spice! While I enjoyed getting to know the new characters, the MCs definitely stayed my favorites. I appreciate the approach Noelle Upton addresses both heartbreak and other forms of grief. Although it may be fantasy, the characters feel very realtable. I'm so happy this book gave us more of everything and I can't wait to continue the series. Thank you Noelle for allowing me to be an Arc reader!
September 10, 2024
Meline is a fierce FMC and I adored her so much. I love how her character developed throughout this story. Elián is a tough character to crack but I truly believe he has such a soft side. I'm thankful that there will be a book 2 because that ending had me devastated!
Read this if you love:
⚔️ Strong FMC
⚔️ Bodyguard Trope
⚔️ Touch her and die
⚔️ Spicy scenes
⚔️ One bed
⚔️ Vampires and magic
Read this if you love:
⚔️ Strong FMC
⚔️ Bodyguard Trope
⚔️ Touch her and die
⚔️ Spicy scenes
⚔️ One bed
⚔️ Vampires and magic
July 7, 2025
This book is incredible
I loved everything about this book. The world building, character development and spice were all top tier. I am anxiously awaiting the second book because I absolutely cannot get enough of these characters and the plot! Ms Upton my jaw is on the floor with how phenomenal this book is. You have a new fan!
I loved everything about this book. The world building, character development and spice were all top tier. I am anxiously awaiting the second book because I absolutely cannot get enough of these characters and the plot! Ms Upton my jaw is on the floor with how phenomenal this book is. You have a new fan!
August 10, 2024
now THIS is an enemies to lovers
Hot and temperamental. This was a very fun read and the chemistry?! Wow can hardly believe it. I don’t want to spoil too much but Elian and Meline both have that dog in them in the best way possible. Noelle really did those two and their relationship so artfully
Hot and temperamental. This was a very fun read and the chemistry?! Wow can hardly believe it. I don’t want to spoil too much but Elian and Meline both have that dog in them in the best way possible. Noelle really did those two and their relationship so artfully
November 8, 2024
This is my second novel by Noelle Upton...I was fortunate enough to receive the Anniversary Edition copy of Twin Blades. I love the way she writes her characters.. The Characters are always badass protectors, with bleeding hearts.
November 13, 2024
This book is so good if you like romance and action. There also a bit of spicy there too. This book kept me up all night just to try and finish it. I love the characters and the challenge they had to face.
November 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This was actually excellent. It was such a refreshing read, the way the lore and world was built up. It follows all the markers of a great fantasy novel and the way the characters were casually queer>>>>>
icl this was real enemies to lovers likeeee!
This was actually excellent. It was such a refreshing read, the way the lore and world was built up. It follows all the markers of a great fantasy novel and the way the characters were casually queer>>>>>
icl this was real enemies to lovers likeeee!
November 21, 2024
Loved it!
I loved this so much the story with all it's twist and turns had me hooked! I really appreciate a story that reels me in and makes me feel all the emotions of the characters and this book did just that!!
I loved this so much the story with all it's twist and turns had me hooked! I really appreciate a story that reels me in and makes me feel all the emotions of the characters and this book did just that!!
April 14, 2025
Loved it! A BiPOC cast. Writing is great, build up is good, world building is good not great, story exciting FMC fun, more realistic than most (love that she’s not like shy and naive about certain things)! WILL be present for the next one.
August 15, 2025
pulled in from the very beginning
The story of Meline may be sad sometimes but goodness once Elian comes around….did not expect the ending AT ALL! Can’t wait to get my hands on Shadows & Flames! And the spice is just enough. Wouldn’t let my pre-teen read it though.
The story of Meline may be sad sometimes but goodness once Elian comes around….did not expect the ending AT ALL! Can’t wait to get my hands on Shadows & Flames! And the spice is just enough. Wouldn’t let my pre-teen read it though.
November 4, 2024
Wonderful character development
And the setup for the next book is great! I can’t wait. Noelle is a wonderful storyteller and the characters are complex and multifaceted
And the setup for the next book is great! I can’t wait. Noelle is a wonderful storyteller and the characters are complex and multifaceted
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