The First Spark: A Romantasy Standalone

by Teshelle Combs

Zayvis Ray is leading her field at the Royal Academy of Creators. If only one of her experiments weren’t haunting her. If only he weren’t tormenting her from within his cage. If only he weren’t everything she’s ever wanted and all the things she should never have. A standalone from The First Collection by Teshelle Combs

386 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 20, 2024

About the author

Teshelle Combs is the award-winning author of books like The Underglow and the First Collection.

She's well known for her fantasy romance standalones like The First Dryad, The First Stone, The First Nymph, and The First Flame. (Read in any order, listed in order of writing).

Tropes include enemies-to-lovers, forbidden love, arranged marriage, twists & turns, and more.

Find TC @booksarebrightstars on TikTok.

Reviews

[Bevany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this book! The story is a dystopian tale with some smut and a cast of wonderful characters. For once, I'm glad there is an open ending because I don't want these characters' stories to be over, I need more!

[Tiffany Ewald · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful, inspiring, thought invoking - just to name a few of the things that come to mind with The First Spark. Well written, amazing world-building, great characters - wyverns humans and ancients/demi ancients - will insight & wonder - passionate, steamy, and heartbreaking all at once with found family, friends/enemies to lovers, touch her and die vibes, mystery, political intrigue, and action just to name a few of the many things found in this beautiful story! Ever is the perfect morally gray obsessive swoony mmc we need to match the perfectly wonderful and independently intelligent workaholic fmc Zayvis. Combs is a genius and masterfully crafts emotional rollercoasters you don't want to get off of! Although part of the First Collection, each book is a standalone and can be read in any order, however I truly invite you to check them all out and see how they all tie together!

[Aly S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even the most observant sometimes miss things about others. We only know as much as we are willing to learn. What happens when your humanoid subject suddenly shows you there is far more to him than you ever knew? What if he is more than the others around you? What if he is more observant than you? What if you are his favorite thing to observe?

I absolutely love this book! Ever deserves the world.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The First Spark is definitely among my favorites from Tess! All the pieces of the puzzle slowly integrating and I can’t wait to see what comes next! The story is gripping and the world building is captivating! I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the relationship between Ever and Zayvis! I could just eat Ever up! 4.5/5⭐️ 2.5/5🌶️

[Jesica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a story. Zayvis is simply incredible and Ever is everything. Once I picked this up i couldn’t put it down. The way other stories are woven in is seamless and yet so exciting. I want more!

[Jimmy · Rating 5 out of 5]

‘First Spark’ was a real fun read. It had my interest throughout the whole book. The MMC had me laughing with his stalkerish banter with the FMC. Did I mention there are Wyverns in the book! What’s not to like? The ending got me feeling some sort of way. I wanted more! At least 1 more scene before the epilogue. Would I recommend this book? Yes, I would!

[Tabatha Slagle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ever. Ever. Ever. His character might be one of my absolute favorite TC characters ever. Ha. Pun. The way he talks and acts is refreshingly unique.
Can we talk about the ending, please? Because mind absolutely blown into a million and a half pieces.
And then, of course, Piff. You can't not love Piff.
Hattie, she's the best friend we all need. Nonsensical. Funny. Sure of herself.
Makon is that protective big brother but also a softie goofball.
Zayvis. Tess really knows how to write the MOST powerful female characters.
I don't know how she does it, but every book is so uniquely her. The day she stops writing will be a sad day for the world.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, if you give everything five stars, then nothing is special. That said, I am so in love with Teshelle Combs. She really makes you fall in love with the characters, good and bad.
This was no exception.

This is set in a world where “magic” is a gift from the Gods that takes many forms. The thing that makes it unique is that it is treated as a science and it is studied, tested and engineered like you would electricity, or mechanical machines.

The main character is Zayvis Ray, her magic type is called a Creators class. She is a dedicated researcher at the Royal Academy, working to find new ways to harreness, generate, and improve her creation magic to improve lives. She is very driven, focused, and does not have time for fools. I love that about her. Her cast of friends is small, but eccentric and fun.

She is promoted ot head of the Creation Department, and as the patriarchy dictates it’s a man’s world in the upper reaches of the Academy and very few people are happy about it. This also puts her in charge of the “experiment” that is kept in a cage in the office of the Head Creator.
This creation looks like a man, but is also a very powerful ancient being.
When Zayvis life comes under attack and adopted family and friends are threatened, the experiment becomes the one thing she can count on to help her keep everyone safe, and unravel the mystery of who is behind all the attacks.

There is adventure, romance, intrigue, dragons, and an interesting take on how magic works.
As always, I cannot wait to see where the case of charters ends up next.

I received this as an ARC read and give this revew

[Brittney Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC to read and review before publishing.

What a great story! I really liked her tying in some of the other Firsts and bringing back the magic from Dryad and Nymph and comparing them to what Insight can do.

It was so well-written! The small touch I really loved was the difference between the use of laboratorium and lab. The more professional characters used the former and less so the latter. It was a really great use of character differentials that made their personalities stand out.

LOVED the wyverns.

There was character development that I really liked seeing. Zayvis learning to let go of control being the biggest.

I would have liked to see a bit more banter, but when it was there, it was great.

I think there were a bit too many smut scenes. A couple could have been cut out in lieu for some more character or world-building. We didn't really need like 7 scenes. 😅. Not that they were poorly written, I just felt the amount wasn't conducive to the plot, characters, or world and kinda just took up space.

Overall, it was very entertaining, and I look forward to more both with Zayvis/Ever and The First series in general.

[Miranda K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really loved all the characters and the story was very unique! The beginning was a little confusing with average terms being called something else... for example, 'day' is called 'turn' and 'night' is called 'deadness.' But also, Zayvis dated the High King but is now dating the High Prince... Talk about being the age where you can date both the father and son lol.

The overall story with Ever and the academy was very exciting, kept me on my toes, and unique. It really picked up speed in the last half and it kept me hooked to know what would happen next. This was a cliffhanger ending so I'm looking forward for the next book!

This book is in Zayvis' POV but there are a couple chapters in Ever's POV but they aren't marked, so it did take a minute to realize that we were not longer in Zayvis' mind. I don't like commenting on the formatting or errors, but hopfully it was just the ebook copy I had, but the formatting added a TON of random spaces in-between words and punctuation that it was really hard to get into the flow of the story when there was an error in almost every paragraph... (I documented at least 385 errors but like I said, I hope it was just the formatting)

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book. This book had drama, inturgue, forbidden romance, some spice 😉, friendships and chosen family. The FMC Zayvis is a badass smart, sexy scientist that came from nothing. She was rescued by wayverns ( creatures) when she was young and was raised by them. Zayvis was special she was blessed with insight but was able to understand wonder ( wonder is what wayverns have). She worked in the academy as a creator. Once she earned the highest position as the head creator all hell broke loose ( drama and intrigue beigns). Zayvis is desired by many men and one beautiful, strong and infuriating at times being named "Ever". Ever is a prisoner in the academy. Ever definitely has stalker vibes but in a playful way. I enjoyed how he evolved as the book progressed. Definitely still stalker but also insightful, protective and desirable. The chokehold "Ever" had me in was real! The banter in this book was top tier. The friendships Zayvis had with Makon and Hattie were lovely. They were loyal, supportive and so much fun to read about.

[Sarah Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great one! This one was super interesting because it leaves you with questions that you still want answers to. I'm hoping that we do get them with how that ending was in another book. This one was about people having a certain power called insight. It was super interesting because she incorporates one of her other books into this one I just don't want to say which one because I feel like it's a great twist and surprise to find out. Honestly I love their little love story even though it was kind of weird but in a perfect way. Honest truth though after that ending I kind of want to know what happens to that one character and who that person is. Honestly I would love to know more about this world too like what happened after everything Zayvis did and what Ever was talking about at the end! Honestly I loved Ever so much. Just the way that she writes about him I don't know why but he was like one of my favorite characters out of all her books. Loved it so much. You guys need to read the books in this series! Especially this one!

[Lauren Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Spark by Teshelle Combs is another perfect novel in the First Series. From the moment I opened the novel I could not put it down and was completely enthralled in the storyline and mysteries. Throughout the novel there was a perfect balance of storytelling and world building. My preference is to have the world building and most of the background information revelation throughout the story which is exactly how First Spark was. First Spark builds in a way that I wish other fantasy books could. There were so many revelations and mysteries that every few pages it felt like my mind was blown and jaw was dropped over and over. In addition to the amazing story telling the characters were absolutely incredible. The FMC and MMC will live rent free in my mind forever and the secondary characters were all iconic and just as memorable. The most exciting characters in the book had to be the wyvern and Piff; so cute my heart can’t handle it!! I can’t recommend First Spark enough.

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teshelle does it again! She has a way of building such unique worlds with characters you can’t get enough of. Plus the little sidekicks you can’t get enough of. Hattie and Makon are the friends we all want, Piff is just adorable. Then there is Zayvis and Ever. They are both so strong and fierce when it comes to what they want. Zayvis is newly promoted and her job and family mean everything. Ever is the silent one, well for everyone but her, observing and learning everything while he stays in his glass room. The glass room that is in her new office. They never could stay out of each other’s heads before so what can they do now?
If you’re looking for great world building, characters, fantasy, mystery, and want to be left wanting more. This is definitely one I would recommend. “Obsession looks good one you…”

[Ashley Fairbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

The First Spark is nothing short of extraordinary—powerful, inspiring, and deeply thought-provoking. With vivid, immersive world-building and unforgettable characters—wyverns, humans, and ancients/demi-ancients—this story sparks wonder at every turn. It’s a passionate, steamy, and heart-wrenching journey that masterfully blends found family, enemies-to-lovers romance, "touch her and die" intensity, mystery, political intrigue, and action-packed drama.

Ever is the perfect morally gray, obsessive, and swoon-worthy male lead, while Zayvis shines as the fiercely intelligent, independent, and driven heroine. Their dynamic is electric, making them an unforgettable pair. Combs’ writing is nothing short of genius, crafting emotional highs and lows that you’ll eagerly ride through to the very end.

[Reagan Carr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was entertained by this story for sure. I have not read any of her other books prior to this one and went in very blind so I’m not sure if that would’ve helped me to understand some things. I felt like some of the world building could have been expanded just to understand more about the Insight, Wonder, and Will. I wish we got to know more about the Nuclid and how the humans got the Insight. I did enjoy the story between Ever and Zayvis though and I almost wish there was more to their story, like a little more banter would’ve been so good. I also wish that we got more about their ending. Again overall entertaining story and I enjoyed it but I felt like it was missing something to like really capture me in the story.

[Ashley Cordner · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first couple chapters were slow for me. I found it hard to get engaged with the book. Around the tenth chapter I found myself so engrossed that it was hard to tear myself from the book. The suspense of what would happen next kept me wanting more. I’m looking forward to reading the next book to come. The ending left me wanting to know where the characters ended up and to continue on with the rest of the story. I am disappointed that the story ended with so many questions, but it’s an ending that promises the reader will be coming back for more. A story well written. I can’t wait to see what else is in store.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes: forced proximity, forbidden love, touch her and die, wyverns
Spice: 2 🌶️

This was immediately immersive, just like other Teshelle Combs’ books. I love a book where the side characters are just as intriguing as the mc’s. The plot is unique and fast paced, and has wyverns and a fluffy squish pet (Piff 😍)… that is all I need. Ever is everything and Zayvis is this fierce fmc that I love to live vicariously through. And the spice is *perfect*. I need more people to read this so I can talk about it!

[Izzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had really good world building and intricate characters that I really enjoyed reading about.

I did however find this book somewhat confusing and a little hard to follow. Especially the words that swapped, for example night was referred to as dark and the day was referred to as glow. But I one chapter it night was referred to as night.

This book has a good story line but takes quite a bit of brain power to follow. I found the end quite confusing and I'm not entirely sure what happened.

[labibliofille · Rating 5 out of 5]

Y'ALL! Teshelle Combs has done it again!!

There's intrigue, mystery, fantasy, a woman in STEM baddie who falls for a humanoid experiment whose origins are unknown, an adorable pink puffball creation companion, found family, wyverns, forbidden love, forced proximity, and more! Not to mention all the Easter eggs hidden within the pages for future story lines and nods to other TC novels. I love the First Collection and Spark is one of my top three!! I cannot wait to see where this storyline goes!!

[Sefri Kuehn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zayvis has a lot on her plate~ getting the position of head creator, dealing with her ex lover who wants her to teach his new wife, a whiny prince who won’t take no for an answer, figuring out who wants her family dead, and Ever: The creation in her lab that can’t (and won’t) leave her mind. Good thing she has her friends (and Ever) to help her deal with all the craziness in her life. An ending that you never saw coming, and an introduction to a character that you’ll need to remember~

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great addition the the first collection by teshelle Combs. Have to say this one has been my favorite by far. Zayvis is a very ambitious creator who has just received the promotion of a lifetime. This means she is able to do what she loves, to create. All she wants to do is make things better for everyone. But is constantly distracted by one thing or another, mostly a creation called Ever. What is his secret and will is destroy everything that she has worked for?

[Kristie Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC and it was an interesting and unique read. It’s a bit more like a choose your own adventure but more adult fantasy than the typical children’s versions. I found the premise interesting, but I would have liked more world building and character development that perhaps would have occurred in a more typical novel format. Overall I’d recommend this book for those looking for a unique experience or who have read others like this.

[Emerald Bryant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I am certainly NOT OKAY

The first 15% of this was a real head scratcher, and I honestly didn't think I would connect with it...

Then he got a name... And then he got a full name... And then we didn't get to spend much time in the HEA

I love Teshelles writing because there's not 50% of a book setting up world building for no reason, however I am always left craving more of the happy endings 🥺

Still a 5⭐though!

Also also, thank you Tess for the ARC, please stop abusing my heart

[Jack Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tess did it again! Created another world where the characters place me into a chokehold! The banter with Zayvis and Ever is some of my favourite that a book has produced!

Imagine having to your test subject being the one person you needed in life. It was a story I needed telling and loved every second.

The side characters are also wonderful as always!

I wish I could write more but I'd end up spoiling it and you should just experience it for yourself!

[Kareena · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was convoluted at times but again, fascinating world building. Very much a fantasy academia romance. Ever was a delicious mmc. I loved how obsessed he was with Zayvis. Their power dynamics and giving up of control was very powerful, not just for the spice, but as character development. Watching Zayvis grow was beautiful. I loved Hattie, she was so much fun. I wish that there had been more Wyvern though, they were a bit underdeveloped. Overall, a delightful story!

[Katie Hannigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Creators, experiments, and wyverns oh my. Once I started this book it was hard to put down. Watching the relationship between Zayvis and Ever grow and blossom kept me wanting more. The eerie aura of Ever was such a fun spin and a great change from the golden retriever MC I’ve been stuck on lately. While still in fantasy land there are many relatable characters and themes. This was the first book I have read by Teshelle Combs and I will be adding more to my TBR.

[Kara Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enter the world of Zayvis head creator at the academy. Where everything is not as it seems.
This journey was phenomenal! Zayvis and her friends Makon and Hattie are quite the trio. Zayvis has a lot on her plate but her friends are always there for her. Enter this rollercoaster, buckle up and expect a wild ride brought to you by Tess!
Oh and don’t forget Ever 😍🔥🥵⚡️

[Mikayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved the concept!! Teshelle is an innovative writer who always provides characters that no matter what type of fantasy setting - are always relatable in some form and helps bring you better into the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this read as I did her others. If you’re looking for a new recommendation to dive into, Teshelle is your author.

[April Samples · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story took me a min to get into, but once I got in I didn’t want to stop. Tess is so good at writing I can’t say it enough. The way that Ever and Zayvis interact in this story is so funny to me, and is what kept me intrigued to keep reading. I love Piff too, I imagine it looking like one of those yarn buddies we used to craft in elementary school, but with more magic.