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Remnants
A girl with strange abilities must choose a side in a war between gangs… and the two men she loves.
In the ruined streets of Los Angeles, the game is simple. Whichever gang controls the Silvers controls the city. Their blood is the electricity that powers everything.
Lissa Metarro is a Silver who doesn’t want to play the game.
Instead, she wants to live freely with her best friend, Tayna, who could maybe be more than a friend if they weren’t always so concerned with hiding from the gangs and trying to make it to the next day alive.
But dreams of freedom are ruined when Tayna is killed in a horrible accident, and Lissa is kidnapped by the Cards, the most powerful and lethal gang in the city.
Lissa must learn to navigate a new life as she’s forced to serve the Cards as a Silver Queen. And not just any Queen. Her strange and exceptionally powerful silver catches the attention of Gideon Valmontry, the Ace—the leader of the Cards—and a brutal man, who is used to getting what he wants. And he wants Lissa. Not just her body and her silver blood but her heart, too.
But Lissa’s heart is the last thing she has that is hers alone, and she won’t give it to Gideon, even if part of her wants to. Especially not when rumors of a rebel group begin to swirl and, with it, a new hope that a different sort of life might still be possible.
Remnants is the first novel in the Silver Games series. It is a dark fantasy romance with elements that may be triggering to some readers including explicit content, depictions of violence, and more. Please see the author's note and content warnings at the beginning of the book.
In the ruined streets of Los Angeles, the game is simple. Whichever gang controls the Silvers controls the city. Their blood is the electricity that powers everything.
Lissa Metarro is a Silver who doesn’t want to play the game.
Instead, she wants to live freely with her best friend, Tayna, who could maybe be more than a friend if they weren’t always so concerned with hiding from the gangs and trying to make it to the next day alive.
But dreams of freedom are ruined when Tayna is killed in a horrible accident, and Lissa is kidnapped by the Cards, the most powerful and lethal gang in the city.
Lissa must learn to navigate a new life as she’s forced to serve the Cards as a Silver Queen. And not just any Queen. Her strange and exceptionally powerful silver catches the attention of Gideon Valmontry, the Ace—the leader of the Cards—and a brutal man, who is used to getting what he wants. And he wants Lissa. Not just her body and her silver blood but her heart, too.
But Lissa’s heart is the last thing she has that is hers alone, and she won’t give it to Gideon, even if part of her wants to. Especially not when rumors of a rebel group begin to swirl and, with it, a new hope that a different sort of life might still be possible.
Remnants is the first novel in the Silver Games series. It is a dark fantasy romance with elements that may be triggering to some readers including explicit content, depictions of violence, and more. Please see the author's note and content warnings at the beginning of the book.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 14, 2025
Lissa lives on the streets with her best friend Tayna. They dream of freedom from the ruling gangs and a quiet life together. One day, Lissa’s silver blood is discovered and she’s taken to live on the compound of the leader of the Cards gang Gideon. Years later, Lissa’s world is turned upside down again and she’s forced to choose between two sides of a war she never wanted.
This book gives me the same vibes of The Hunger Games and Divergent. Only Remnants is more adult considering the graphic sex scenes. There is a cliffhanger and a pretty big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. I can’t wait to read what happens next!
Thank you Jess Stevens and Book Funnel for the ARC
This book gives me the same vibes of The Hunger Games and Divergent. Only Remnants is more adult considering the graphic sex scenes. There is a cliffhanger and a pretty big twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. I can’t wait to read what happens next!
Thank you Jess Stevens and Book Funnel for the ARC
February 21, 2025
Rating 4/5⭐️
Spice 3/5🌶️
Remnants is book 1 in the Silver Games Series set to publish March 18th!
Lissa a girl with silver in her blood and strange abilities wants to be free to live her life with her best friend in a world ravaged by gangs where silver is a commodity. She doesn’t want to play these games but fate has a different idea.
I really enjoyed the magic system in this book. I thought it was unique. It has a lot of potential and cannot wait to see where Lissa goes as she continues to grow!
Her character definitely changed and molded a lot throughout the book as she ages and learns. Really good characters a lot of thought into them and the plot.
Will definitely continue the series!
Thank you to Jess Stevens for this arc!
Spice 3/5🌶️
Remnants is book 1 in the Silver Games Series set to publish March 18th!
Lissa a girl with silver in her blood and strange abilities wants to be free to live her life with her best friend in a world ravaged by gangs where silver is a commodity. She doesn’t want to play these games but fate has a different idea.
I really enjoyed the magic system in this book. I thought it was unique. It has a lot of potential and cannot wait to see where Lissa goes as she continues to grow!
Her character definitely changed and molded a lot throughout the book as she ages and learns. Really good characters a lot of thought into them and the plot.
Will definitely continue the series!
Thank you to Jess Stevens for this arc!
February 25, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
Release date: March 18th 2025
OBSESSED. I need book 2 right now. The love triangle was fantastic. I found myself rooting for both MMC’s and one is literally insane. The plot twist had my jaw on the floor.
In the ruined streets of Los Angeles, the game is simple. Whichever gang controls the sliver controls the city.
Lissa isn’t an ordinary sliver. She has an exceptional power. Once Gideon the Ace of the cards has his hands on her he won’t let go. Lesson one. He owns her.
After being torn away from each other, Tayna has waited years to get Lissa back. Now that he finally has her, he will never leave her again.
The tropes, I mean come on. Enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, captor/captive romance, dark romance fantasy. Just to name a few.
Release date: March 18th 2025
OBSESSED. I need book 2 right now. The love triangle was fantastic. I found myself rooting for both MMC’s and one is literally insane. The plot twist had my jaw on the floor.
In the ruined streets of Los Angeles, the game is simple. Whichever gang controls the sliver controls the city.
Lissa isn’t an ordinary sliver. She has an exceptional power. Once Gideon the Ace of the cards has his hands on her he won’t let go. Lesson one. He owns her.
After being torn away from each other, Tayna has waited years to get Lissa back. Now that he finally has her, he will never leave her again.
The tropes, I mean come on. Enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, captor/captive romance, dark romance fantasy. Just to name a few.
February 22, 2025
Admission: I've never read or watched The Princess Bride. Remnants is a book that gives a dark romance twist to it, so I'm told. I wouldn't understand the semblance between the both, but I fell in love with it - Remnants that is.
The world-building that the author, Jess Stevens, provides allows you to immerse yourself into the world that Lissa lives in. The city of angels, so to speak. It's a world run by the gangs that control the Silvers.
Lissa has a secret power that gives her both power and pain. She is a Silver after all. She suffers loss like no other and is discovered by Gideon - the Ace of The Cards. Lissa is his everything and he'll do whatever he can to prove it. But Lissa lost her everything when Gideon found her. It's only through her sheer will to not be used for power that she discovers who she truly is.
The secrets, the blood, the loss, the love, the lightning within the pages kept me holding onto my Kindle even when sleep tried to consume me. Remnants hooked me and left me with so many questions.
The tropes; why choose, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, gangs, dark romance and fantasy ... it left me torn between which man would be best for Lissa. She isn't the young and naive 18-year-old girl stuck in the shadows anymore. She can become a queen, in her own right. If those hard conversations took place between herself and Gideon, perhaps their world could be exactly how it needs to be to flourish. But alas, I'll wait for the next books. ;)
The world-building that the author, Jess Stevens, provides allows you to immerse yourself into the world that Lissa lives in. The city of angels, so to speak. It's a world run by the gangs that control the Silvers.
Lissa has a secret power that gives her both power and pain. She is a Silver after all. She suffers loss like no other and is discovered by Gideon - the Ace of The Cards. Lissa is his everything and he'll do whatever he can to prove it. But Lissa lost her everything when Gideon found her. It's only through her sheer will to not be used for power that she discovers who she truly is.
The secrets, the blood, the loss, the love, the lightning within the pages kept me holding onto my Kindle even when sleep tried to consume me. Remnants hooked me and left me with so many questions.
The tropes; why choose, enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, gangs, dark romance and fantasy ... it left me torn between which man would be best for Lissa. She isn't the young and naive 18-year-old girl stuck in the shadows anymore. She can become a queen, in her own right. If those hard conversations took place between herself and Gideon, perhaps their world could be exactly how it needs to be to flourish. But alas, I'll wait for the next books. ;)
February 19, 2025
Remnants
By Jess Stevens
Don’t you just love a book that slowly pulls you out of a reading slump!
Since Jan21, iykyk, I have been in and out of a slump. Thank you Jess Stevens for helping me. The writing is not only well-structured, but it’s also thought provoking. She helps you connect with the characters, not just the main ones, but also the side characters. I absolutely loved how the story was fast paced, but informative. Her world building was easy to visualize.
This story follows Lissa.
When she was 10years old, her mother was a casualty in a war between two gangs because she was an unclaimed Silver.
Whichever gang, The Vieled. The Splits. The Tanks. And The Cards, controls The Silver, controls the city. Their blood is electricity that powers everything.
The girls who are born with Silver in their veins were taken from their families at a young age and they serve whatever gang that has them.
Lissa was in hiding with her best friend Tayna, until one day at the market place everything went wrong. Now she’s forced to learn how to be The Silver Queen to the Ace of The Cards Gideon.
Rumors are floating that there’s Rebels, giving Lissa hope that a different life might just be possible.
This story has a well structured Plot with twist, likable characters and SPICE!!
This is a game you’d definitely want to join. ♠️
#Remnants #JessStevens #BloodMagic #Spades #DarkRomance #Bookstagram #ArcReview #DeathByTBR #DaniReads12 #LoveTriangle #BookWorm #Romance #RomanceReads
By Jess Stevens
Don’t you just love a book that slowly pulls you out of a reading slump!
Since Jan21, iykyk, I have been in and out of a slump. Thank you Jess Stevens for helping me. The writing is not only well-structured, but it’s also thought provoking. She helps you connect with the characters, not just the main ones, but also the side characters. I absolutely loved how the story was fast paced, but informative. Her world building was easy to visualize.
This story follows Lissa.
When she was 10years old, her mother was a casualty in a war between two gangs because she was an unclaimed Silver.
Whichever gang, The Vieled. The Splits. The Tanks. And The Cards, controls The Silver, controls the city. Their blood is electricity that powers everything.
The girls who are born with Silver in their veins were taken from their families at a young age and they serve whatever gang that has them.
Lissa was in hiding with her best friend Tayna, until one day at the market place everything went wrong. Now she’s forced to learn how to be The Silver Queen to the Ace of The Cards Gideon.
Rumors are floating that there’s Rebels, giving Lissa hope that a different life might just be possible.
This story has a well structured Plot with twist, likable characters and SPICE!!
This is a game you’d definitely want to join. ♠️
#Remnants #JessStevens #BloodMagic #Spades #DarkRomance #Bookstagram #ArcReview #DeathByTBR #DaniReads12 #LoveTriangle #BookWorm #Romance #RomanceReads
February 19, 2025
"Remnants" by Jess Stevens is an exhilarating read featuring Lissa, a strong woman torn between her maniacal lover, Gideon, and the potentially saving Tayna.
With a gripping narrative and a cliffhanger that leaves readers eager for more, Lissa's relatable journey makes her a character worth rooting for. This thrilling blend of romance and suspense is highly recommended!
With a gripping narrative and a cliffhanger that leaves readers eager for more, Lissa's relatable journey makes her a character worth rooting for. This thrilling blend of romance and suspense is highly recommended!
June 20, 2026
I cried. That is the review. That is the whole emotional thesis. Five stars. Emotional damage. Please send tissues and a refund for my feelings.
But since I apparently have to function as a coherent human being, I will elaborate.
This book does that thing where it walks you into a ruined Los Angeles where survival is basically a sport, gangs run everything, and people called Silvers are literally the power source keeping the city alive. Their blood fuels the system like electricity, and somehow I still thought I was emotionally prepared for what was coming. I was not. I was deeply, embarrassingly not.
Lissa Metarro is the kind of character who starts off just trying to stay out of the game. No ambition for crowns or kingdoms or chaos. Just a girl trying to survive the ruined streets with her best friend Tayna, where even love feels like something you have to whisper about so it does not get taken from you too. And then the book says, actually, no, you are going to hurt now.
Tayna.
I am still not okay about Tayna. The loss is not just a plot point, it is a full body collapse. The kind that makes you stare at a page and wonder why fictional grief feels like it paid rent in your chest and moved in permanently. Lissa’s guilt after that moment is written in a way that does not let you look away. It sits with you. It presses on you. It argues with your sanity at 2 a.m.
And then the Cards arrive like a promise that nothing in this world is ever going to be gentle again.
Being taken and forced into the role of Silver Queen is not glamorous, not powerful in the way you want it to be. It is survival dressed up in gold. Lissa being pulled into the orbit of Gideon Valmontry, the Ace, is where things get complicated in that very specific “why am I rooting for this man while also wanting to shake him” way.
He is brutal.
He is used to control. He is the kind of leader who does not ask permission from the world, and definitely does not ask permission from his own feelings either. And yet somehow, against all logic and self preservation instincts, there is this pull between them that makes you question your own judgment right alongside Lissa’s.
And then the emotional triangle shows up like it is paying rent too. Because this is not just about survival or power or rebellion rumors whispering through the city. It is about Lissa being caught between two men who love her in ways that are not neat, not safe, and absolutely not kind to my nervous system.
I was not ready for the emotional whiplash of caring about all of them at once while also screaming internally about every decision being made.
The rebel threads creeping into the story feel like hope that does not quite know how to be gentle yet. More like a match held over gasoline than a sunrise. And I kept thinking maybe this is where things will stabilize, maybe this is where I get to breathe again.
The book said no.
Politely.
Repeatedly.
Sometimes violently.
What really broke me is how personal everything feels. The city is collapsing, people are being used as resources, loyalty is constantly tested, and Lissa is just trying to hold on to whatever pieces of herself have not already been taken or broken. Watching her navigate that while still feeling deeply human is what makes the pain land so well.
I finished this feeling like I had been emotionally tackled by someone who then asked if I was enjoying the experience. I was not. I also would read it again immediately.
So yes. I cried.
I will not be taking questions at this time.
But since I apparently have to function as a coherent human being, I will elaborate.
This book does that thing where it walks you into a ruined Los Angeles where survival is basically a sport, gangs run everything, and people called Silvers are literally the power source keeping the city alive. Their blood fuels the system like electricity, and somehow I still thought I was emotionally prepared for what was coming. I was not. I was deeply, embarrassingly not.
Lissa Metarro is the kind of character who starts off just trying to stay out of the game. No ambition for crowns or kingdoms or chaos. Just a girl trying to survive the ruined streets with her best friend Tayna, where even love feels like something you have to whisper about so it does not get taken from you too. And then the book says, actually, no, you are going to hurt now.
Tayna.
I am still not okay about Tayna. The loss is not just a plot point, it is a full body collapse. The kind that makes you stare at a page and wonder why fictional grief feels like it paid rent in your chest and moved in permanently. Lissa’s guilt after that moment is written in a way that does not let you look away. It sits with you. It presses on you. It argues with your sanity at 2 a.m.
And then the Cards arrive like a promise that nothing in this world is ever going to be gentle again.
Being taken and forced into the role of Silver Queen is not glamorous, not powerful in the way you want it to be. It is survival dressed up in gold. Lissa being pulled into the orbit of Gideon Valmontry, the Ace, is where things get complicated in that very specific “why am I rooting for this man while also wanting to shake him” way.
He is brutal.
He is used to control. He is the kind of leader who does not ask permission from the world, and definitely does not ask permission from his own feelings either. And yet somehow, against all logic and self preservation instincts, there is this pull between them that makes you question your own judgment right alongside Lissa’s.
And then the emotional triangle shows up like it is paying rent too. Because this is not just about survival or power or rebellion rumors whispering through the city. It is about Lissa being caught between two men who love her in ways that are not neat, not safe, and absolutely not kind to my nervous system.
I was not ready for the emotional whiplash of caring about all of them at once while also screaming internally about every decision being made.
The rebel threads creeping into the story feel like hope that does not quite know how to be gentle yet. More like a match held over gasoline than a sunrise. And I kept thinking maybe this is where things will stabilize, maybe this is where I get to breathe again.
The book said no.
Politely.
Repeatedly.
Sometimes violently.
What really broke me is how personal everything feels. The city is collapsing, people are being used as resources, loyalty is constantly tested, and Lissa is just trying to hold on to whatever pieces of herself have not already been taken or broken. Watching her navigate that while still feeling deeply human is what makes the pain land so well.
I finished this feeling like I had been emotionally tackled by someone who then asked if I was enjoying the experience. I was not. I also would read it again immediately.
So yes. I cried.
I will not be taking questions at this time.
May 30, 2026
The Remnants is a dark dystopian romance set in the ruins of Los Angeles, where powerful gangs fight for control of the Silvers—people whose blood powers the city. When Lissa is taken captive by the ruthless Cards gang, she finds herself caught in a brutal war, a dangerous love triangle, and a struggle to determine her own future.
The world-building was easy to follow and the blood magic system feels unique. Fans of dark dystopian romance, morally black characters, possessive MMCs, love triangles, and plenty of spice will find a lot to enjoy here.
That said, I want to emphasize that this is a dark romance with truly morally black characters. Going in with the right expectations is important. I desperately wanted to love one of the MMCs, but much of the romance felt rooted in Stockholm syndrome and questionable consent, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the relationship. Their actions often crossed lines that left me struggling to sympathize with him.
Lissa, however, kept me engaged throughout the story. She’s fiery, powerful, and determined, even when the world tries to break her. At the same time, her internal monologue often felt conflicted and confusing, further reinforcing the feeling that she has been conditioned by her environment. She reminded me a lot of Auren from the Plated Prisoner series—stronger than she realizes but still trapped by the circumstances surrounding her. While that could be frustrating at times, it also made me believe there’s much more growth ahead for her character.
Since this is only the first book in a trilogy, I’m reserving judgment on some of the character arcs. I’m still highly invested in seeing where this story goes. One of the MMCs could end up following a redemption path similar to Theon St. Orcas from the Legacy series, where I went from hating him to loving him, or perhaps he’ll be more like King Midas, a character whose true nature was masked but suspected. Either way, the ending left me eager for answers, and I’ll definitely be devouring book two to find out.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narration in duet with Sean Masters and Heather Firth was INCREDIBLE. Definitely did a superb job and made it such a great listening experience
Overall, The Remnants delivers an addictive mix of blood magic, gang warfare, dark romance, and emotional turmoil. While some of the relationship dynamics didn’t fully work for me, the unique world, compelling premise, and promise of future character development kept me hooked from beginning.
Thank you to the author for this ALC for an honest review!
The world-building was easy to follow and the blood magic system feels unique. Fans of dark dystopian romance, morally black characters, possessive MMCs, love triangles, and plenty of spice will find a lot to enjoy here.
That said, I want to emphasize that this is a dark romance with truly morally black characters. Going in with the right expectations is important. I desperately wanted to love one of the MMCs, but much of the romance felt rooted in Stockholm syndrome and questionable consent, which made it difficult for me to fully invest in the relationship. Their actions often crossed lines that left me struggling to sympathize with him.
Lissa, however, kept me engaged throughout the story. She’s fiery, powerful, and determined, even when the world tries to break her. At the same time, her internal monologue often felt conflicted and confusing, further reinforcing the feeling that she has been conditioned by her environment. She reminded me a lot of Auren from the Plated Prisoner series—stronger than she realizes but still trapped by the circumstances surrounding her. While that could be frustrating at times, it also made me believe there’s much more growth ahead for her character.
Since this is only the first book in a trilogy, I’m reserving judgment on some of the character arcs. I’m still highly invested in seeing where this story goes. One of the MMCs could end up following a redemption path similar to Theon St. Orcas from the Legacy series, where I went from hating him to loving him, or perhaps he’ll be more like King Midas, a character whose true nature was masked but suspected. Either way, the ending left me eager for answers, and I’ll definitely be devouring book two to find out.
I listened to this on audiobook and the narration in duet with Sean Masters and Heather Firth was INCREDIBLE. Definitely did a superb job and made it such a great listening experience
Overall, The Remnants delivers an addictive mix of blood magic, gang warfare, dark romance, and emotional turmoil. While some of the relationship dynamics didn’t fully work for me, the unique world, compelling premise, and promise of future character development kept me hooked from beginning.
Thank you to the author for this ALC for an honest review!
May 18, 2026
Remnants absolutely grabbed me from page one. Opening in a strip club with lines like “Forget churches. God was dead in this city” immediately set the tone for the dark, gritty world this book throws you into, and I was absolutely hooked.
The easiest way I can describe this book is an adult version of the Red Queen series meets The Wicked, but with higher stakes, darker characters, and spice that shows up early enough to let you know this is definitely not YA, though some of the other writing is on the younger side. One of my favorite things was how quickly the world and plot were established. There’s no overwhelming info dump or unnecessary fluff. Jess gets right into the politics, the powers, and the danger almost immediately, which makes it so easy to sink right into the story.
Lissa/Gideon/Tayna absolutely carried this book for me. L&G’s dynamic is toxic in the most addictive fictional way possible (though if you are in this type of relationship in real life, please run). The claiming, the fighting, the banter! Every interaction between them had tension dripping off the page. The scene where he picks her up in anger and she burns him badly enough to smoke? Inject that directly into my veins. And the manipulation? Yes yes fictional GOLD! And then on the flip side L&T are EVERYTHING! I love Tayna with my whole heart and he can do no wrong…. But that ending tho 😱
I also loved the moral complexity throughout the story. Quotes like “I’d called Gideon a monster, but he was only the monster my silver allowed him to be” added so much depth to both the characters and the world. And the way Lissa feels for Gideon is very real for someone in that position and Jess does a fantastic job of captivating that internal push and pull. Chef’s kiss.
I went back and forth between 4 and 5 stars the entire time, but ultimately landed on 4 stars for two reasons. First, the writing style occasionally felt a little too YA for how dark and mature the actual content was. Second — and this is a very personal preference — I really wanted Lissa to get her revenge at the end. Gideon jumping off the cliff instead of her pulling the trigger makes me think we definitely haven’t seen the last of him, and while I hate that I love that… I really was hoping he would die by her hands. Who knows, maybe he still will 👀
Overall, this book left me with SO many emotions, and I’m beyond excited to be an ARC reader for Reckonings because I need to know what happens next immediately.
The easiest way I can describe this book is an adult version of the Red Queen series meets The Wicked, but with higher stakes, darker characters, and spice that shows up early enough to let you know this is definitely not YA, though some of the other writing is on the younger side. One of my favorite things was how quickly the world and plot were established. There’s no overwhelming info dump or unnecessary fluff. Jess gets right into the politics, the powers, and the danger almost immediately, which makes it so easy to sink right into the story.
Lissa/Gideon/Tayna absolutely carried this book for me. L&G’s dynamic is toxic in the most addictive fictional way possible (though if you are in this type of relationship in real life, please run). The claiming, the fighting, the banter! Every interaction between them had tension dripping off the page. The scene where he picks her up in anger and she burns him badly enough to smoke? Inject that directly into my veins. And the manipulation? Yes yes fictional GOLD! And then on the flip side L&T are EVERYTHING! I love Tayna with my whole heart and he can do no wrong…. But that ending tho 😱
I also loved the moral complexity throughout the story. Quotes like “I’d called Gideon a monster, but he was only the monster my silver allowed him to be” added so much depth to both the characters and the world. And the way Lissa feels for Gideon is very real for someone in that position and Jess does a fantastic job of captivating that internal push and pull. Chef’s kiss.
I went back and forth between 4 and 5 stars the entire time, but ultimately landed on 4 stars for two reasons. First, the writing style occasionally felt a little too YA for how dark and mature the actual content was. Second — and this is a very personal preference — I really wanted Lissa to get her revenge at the end. Gideon jumping off the cliff instead of her pulling the trigger makes me think we definitely haven’t seen the last of him, and while I hate that I love that… I really was hoping he would die by her hands. Who knows, maybe he still will 👀
Overall, this book left me with SO many emotions, and I’m beyond excited to be an ARC reader for Reckonings because I need to know what happens next immediately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2025
This. Book. I was lucky enough to receive an eARC of this courtesy of the author in exchange for an honest review!
**Spoiler free review**
Set in dystopian Los Angeles where the city is in ruins and fueled by the blood of Silvers, gangs fight for control. Lissa has been a street rat for most of her life since her mom died, hiding and living with her best friend Tayna to avoid being caught by the gangs, especially the Cards who killed her mother. However, one night goes wrong, Tayna ends up dead (just as they finally confessed their feelings too 😭), and Lissa ends up with the Cards and is forced to serve Gideon, their Ace. But as the years go on, her relationship with Gideon goes from pure spite to complicated, even if she doesn’t support what he’s doing. Until she chooses to do something that completely alters her course and leaves her wondering what comes next.
The beginning of the book may read a little YA, but I promise it gets so much better. There isn’t anything quite like a complicated toxic relationship and you definitely get that here! Gideon may kind of be the worst as in he’s definitely morally grey/black, but also kinda hot? My toxic trait is that I love characters like that 😩 The magic system in this book is really unique and there’s levels to it, plus it really worked well in this urban fantasy setting. There were also INSANE plot twists that had me reeling (and messaging Jess being like WTF).
The writing at times is a little choppy, but I had a GREAT time with this book. At times, I got really frustrated with Lissa because I just thought she was being kind of dumb, but I can also understand how complicated things were for her and she didn’t just get to sit with her feelings. The next book is set up really well with this ending, so I will definitely be reading that when it comes out.
There are definitely dark themes and potentially triggering scenes, so check content warnings!
**Spoiler free review**
Set in dystopian Los Angeles where the city is in ruins and fueled by the blood of Silvers, gangs fight for control. Lissa has been a street rat for most of her life since her mom died, hiding and living with her best friend Tayna to avoid being caught by the gangs, especially the Cards who killed her mother. However, one night goes wrong, Tayna ends up dead (just as they finally confessed their feelings too 😭), and Lissa ends up with the Cards and is forced to serve Gideon, their Ace. But as the years go on, her relationship with Gideon goes from pure spite to complicated, even if she doesn’t support what he’s doing. Until she chooses to do something that completely alters her course and leaves her wondering what comes next.
The beginning of the book may read a little YA, but I promise it gets so much better. There isn’t anything quite like a complicated toxic relationship and you definitely get that here! Gideon may kind of be the worst as in he’s definitely morally grey/black, but also kinda hot? My toxic trait is that I love characters like that 😩 The magic system in this book is really unique and there’s levels to it, plus it really worked well in this urban fantasy setting. There were also INSANE plot twists that had me reeling (and messaging Jess being like WTF).
The writing at times is a little choppy, but I had a GREAT time with this book. At times, I got really frustrated with Lissa because I just thought she was being kind of dumb, but I can also understand how complicated things were for her and she didn’t just get to sit with her feelings. The next book is set up really well with this ending, so I will definitely be reading that when it comes out.
There are definitely dark themes and potentially triggering scenes, so check content warnings!
March 18, 2025
Thank you to the author Jess Stevens for gifting me this ebook. I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This takes place in a basically post apocalyptic world. Everything is destroyed and gangs run the city. The FMC has special blood that makes her valuable to those seeking power. The Silvers' blood has enhancement properties as well as healing for the one using it. This made me think of Captain America and the serum they injected him with to make him a super soldier.... mixed with 28 days later. The government doing something they shouldn't have been doing and it resulted in the world almost ending and a low population.
This is book one of the series and we meet Lissa, the FMC who is a Silver and Tayna, her best friend for many years because they met on the streets as orphans and decided to survive together.
Tayna dies and Lissa ends up in the clutches of one of the most powerful gangs. She hid herself pretty well for many years being a silver, but that stopped. Ending up at the compound with no one else, she ends up forming a "relationship" (I say that loosely!) with Gideon, because he wants her to himself.
I really like the world building in this story and I hope to see more about what is going on outside of the city that they are currently in because this takes place in what was once Los Angeles, but the devastation was worldwide. I'm curious if there is anything else going on too. Either way, I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next part.
This is a dark romance and there is spice... about 3/5.
She is torn between two men and the two sides of the war they are on. She has to choose. There is so much to uncover and lies to unearth... it also ends on a cliffhanger.
Tropes include:
Love Triangle
Blood Magic
Morally Grey MCs
Gang Wars
This takes place in a basically post apocalyptic world. Everything is destroyed and gangs run the city. The FMC has special blood that makes her valuable to those seeking power. The Silvers' blood has enhancement properties as well as healing for the one using it. This made me think of Captain America and the serum they injected him with to make him a super soldier.... mixed with 28 days later. The government doing something they shouldn't have been doing and it resulted in the world almost ending and a low population.
This is book one of the series and we meet Lissa, the FMC who is a Silver and Tayna, her best friend for many years because they met on the streets as orphans and decided to survive together.
Tayna dies and Lissa ends up in the clutches of one of the most powerful gangs. She hid herself pretty well for many years being a silver, but that stopped. Ending up at the compound with no one else, she ends up forming a "relationship" (I say that loosely!) with Gideon, because he wants her to himself.
I really like the world building in this story and I hope to see more about what is going on outside of the city that they are currently in because this takes place in what was once Los Angeles, but the devastation was worldwide. I'm curious if there is anything else going on too. Either way, I really enjoyed this story and look forward to reading the next part.
This is a dark romance and there is spice... about 3/5.
She is torn between two men and the two sides of the war they are on. She has to choose. There is so much to uncover and lies to unearth... it also ends on a cliffhanger.
Tropes include:
Love Triangle
Blood Magic
Morally Grey MCs
Gang Wars
June 5, 2026
4.5 stars
With the absolute flood of romantasy hitting the genre lately, l've become a little harder to impress. So when I say I genuinely enjoyed Remnants, that means something.
Set in a dystopian Los Angeles where gangs battle for control and the blood of "Silvers" literally powers the city, this story pulled me in much faster than I expected. Jess created a world that felt unique without overwhelming me with pages of information dumping, and I found myself completely invested in Lissa's journey. The combination of dark fantasy, romance, political power struggles, and morally gray characters kept me turning pages long past when I should have gone to sleep.
There were twists I didn't see coming, plenty of tension, and just enough mystery that I constantly needed to know what would happen next. Let's just say the MMCs had me questioning every feeling I had about them from chapter to chapter.
And that ending? Yeah...Jess knew exactly what she was doing because I wanted book two in my hands. STAT.
I listened to this and Heather Firth and Sean Masters delivered exceptional performances, bringing these characters to life with remarkable skill. Heather's portrayal of Lissa's determination and vulnerability was spot-on, while Sean seamlessly transitioned between Lissa's two love interests, each with distinct personalities. Their performances created an experience that made it effortless to become engrossed in the world.
If you've been feeling burned out by dark romantasy lately and are looking for something that feels fresh while still delivering the angst, tension, and obsession we all love, Remnants is absolutely worth picking up.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two.
With the absolute flood of romantasy hitting the genre lately, l've become a little harder to impress. So when I say I genuinely enjoyed Remnants, that means something.
Set in a dystopian Los Angeles where gangs battle for control and the blood of "Silvers" literally powers the city, this story pulled me in much faster than I expected. Jess created a world that felt unique without overwhelming me with pages of information dumping, and I found myself completely invested in Lissa's journey. The combination of dark fantasy, romance, political power struggles, and morally gray characters kept me turning pages long past when I should have gone to sleep.
There were twists I didn't see coming, plenty of tension, and just enough mystery that I constantly needed to know what would happen next. Let's just say the MMCs had me questioning every feeling I had about them from chapter to chapter.
And that ending? Yeah...Jess knew exactly what she was doing because I wanted book two in my hands. STAT.
I listened to this and Heather Firth and Sean Masters delivered exceptional performances, bringing these characters to life with remarkable skill. Heather's portrayal of Lissa's determination and vulnerability was spot-on, while Sean seamlessly transitioned between Lissa's two love interests, each with distinct personalities. Their performances created an experience that made it effortless to become engrossed in the world.
If you've been feeling burned out by dark romantasy lately and are looking for something that feels fresh while still delivering the angst, tension, and obsession we all love, Remnants is absolutely worth picking up.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for book two.
June 28, 2026
This book had me on the edge of my seat!
First off, I was immediately hooked when I read that this book was inspired by The Princess Bride. I was expecting an evil prince, a long lost love, and shenanigans but what we got was so much more. Jess Stevens knows how to make you earn your information. A girl with secrets hiding in plain sight, thieving to get by, being protected by a childhood friend feels a lot like Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen series but this book immediately sets itself apart with its dark undertones and adult content.
Personally, I love a dystopian series with complex characters who you don't know if you should trust. Our main girl, Lissa is absolutely an unreliable narrator in the best way because we are drawn into her thoughts and feelings about the world around us. As she discovers things about her world, so do we, and it helps to create this dynamic tension throughout the entire book. She also constantly refuses to lie to herself which makes for such a strong FMC because too often do we have to wade through dark romances where the main characters denies so much of who they are because they are ashamed. This powerful woman never denies who she is and what she wants, which makes for such a wild ride in her world.
The side characters and love interests are also so well thought out and had me begging for more about them and their stories. I almost wish the book was longer so we could know more but I truly think the twists and turns were timed perfectly and the tension as solidly building throughout the book.
Loved this book!
First off, I was immediately hooked when I read that this book was inspired by The Princess Bride. I was expecting an evil prince, a long lost love, and shenanigans but what we got was so much more. Jess Stevens knows how to make you earn your information. A girl with secrets hiding in plain sight, thieving to get by, being protected by a childhood friend feels a lot like Victoria Aveyard's Red Queen series but this book immediately sets itself apart with its dark undertones and adult content.
Personally, I love a dystopian series with complex characters who you don't know if you should trust. Our main girl, Lissa is absolutely an unreliable narrator in the best way because we are drawn into her thoughts and feelings about the world around us. As she discovers things about her world, so do we, and it helps to create this dynamic tension throughout the entire book. She also constantly refuses to lie to herself which makes for such a strong FMC because too often do we have to wade through dark romances where the main characters denies so much of who they are because they are ashamed. This powerful woman never denies who she is and what she wants, which makes for such a wild ride in her world.
The side characters and love interests are also so well thought out and had me begging for more about them and their stories. I almost wish the book was longer so we could know more but I truly think the twists and turns were timed perfectly and the tension as solidly building throughout the book.
Loved this book!
February 21, 2025
First of all, I would like to thank Jess Steven’s for this ARC. When I originally found her post about Remnants, I saw that it was a princess bride inspired dark romance book and the princess bride is one of my all time favorite movies so I was so happy to be given the chance to read this ARC.
The world building in this book was incredible! I was able to envision what the world looked like during this time, especially with many people fighting over the most potent energy, which so happens to be Silver. I absolutely loved all of the characters in this book. They were really well described and learning about their personalities and backstories made me love them even more. The FMC was portrayed very well and I loved seeing the depths of her emotions and the struggles that she goes through as she tries to find herself in this war of worlds. Even her friends all stole my heart.
I also adored the dynamic of the MMC’s. Even when everything was revealed, I still felt torn between the two as they truly had good and bad in both of them. There was a lot of moments where I found myself wondering what I would do in certain situations. I did not want this book to end but I also looking forward to what the next book will hold. I hope everyone gets the chance to enjoy this book as much I did. This book truly is challenging for my top number 1 book for the month of February.
The world building in this book was incredible! I was able to envision what the world looked like during this time, especially with many people fighting over the most potent energy, which so happens to be Silver. I absolutely loved all of the characters in this book. They were really well described and learning about their personalities and backstories made me love them even more. The FMC was portrayed very well and I loved seeing the depths of her emotions and the struggles that she goes through as she tries to find herself in this war of worlds. Even her friends all stole my heart.
I also adored the dynamic of the MMC’s. Even when everything was revealed, I still felt torn between the two as they truly had good and bad in both of them. There was a lot of moments where I found myself wondering what I would do in certain situations. I did not want this book to end but I also looking forward to what the next book will hold. I hope everyone gets the chance to enjoy this book as much I did. This book truly is challenging for my top number 1 book for the month of February.
March 18, 2025
ARC Review:
First, I want to thank Jess Stevens for sending me an eARC in return for my honest review before Remnants is officially published.
I absolutely devoured this book! Remnants is book 1 in the Silver Games series. As a first time author, I think Jess Stevens absolutely killed it and I cannot wait for book 2!
We have 1 FMC, 2 MMC’s, love triangle, a unique magic system, gang wars, post apocalyptic LA, found family, and betrayal.
Gideon is morally black and you just can’t help but root for him. The banter, love, hate, chemistry, and sexual tension between he and Lissa is whew…
Tayna is what I’d consider Lissa’s childhood best friend who is a little morally gray when it comes to making sure those he cares about are ok.
We have enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, touch her and unalive, and a VERY conflicted FMC. The side characters are excellent, the character development, and watching Lissa come into her own.
There are some predictable plot twists and other plot twists that you just don’t see coming. The end is a little bit of a cliffhanger where you’re left wondering what’s going to happen next, but it’s still satisfying. I definitely have a lot of questions that I cannot wait to get answers for!
First, I want to thank Jess Stevens for sending me an eARC in return for my honest review before Remnants is officially published.
I absolutely devoured this book! Remnants is book 1 in the Silver Games series. As a first time author, I think Jess Stevens absolutely killed it and I cannot wait for book 2!
We have 1 FMC, 2 MMC’s, love triangle, a unique magic system, gang wars, post apocalyptic LA, found family, and betrayal.
Gideon is morally black and you just can’t help but root for him. The banter, love, hate, chemistry, and sexual tension between he and Lissa is whew…
Tayna is what I’d consider Lissa’s childhood best friend who is a little morally gray when it comes to making sure those he cares about are ok.
We have enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, touch her and unalive, and a VERY conflicted FMC. The side characters are excellent, the character development, and watching Lissa come into her own.
There are some predictable plot twists and other plot twists that you just don’t see coming. The end is a little bit of a cliffhanger where you’re left wondering what’s going to happen next, but it’s still satisfying. I definitely have a lot of questions that I cannot wait to get answers for!
June 6, 2026
I LOVED this book. I’m a big fan of dark dystopian romance and this one had a super cool concept. This book takes place in the future after a world changing event. There are girls born with silver blood whose blood can power the broken world, so they are traded and sold and kept as prisoners by the gangs who rule the city.
Our FMC is a Silver. There’s a love triangle between her, the villain gang leader and the hero resistance leader. The tension and the relationships and the spice was HOT 🥵 I couldn’t choose between either MMC (even though one is her captor and was definitely unhinged 😈). Towards the end of the book you start to find out that things may not be as black and white as they seem.
The book ends with more questions than answers, and sets us up perfectly for book two. I was so excited when I realized that the next book in the trilogy is releasing this month on June 16th! So happy that I don’t have long to wait to continue this story. I can’t wait to dive back into this world in book two 🖤
Also, for you listeners - the audiobook was recorded in duet and the narrator performances by Heather Firth and Sean Masters were SO GOOD 🔥 Highly recommend giving this book a read or listen!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Our FMC is a Silver. There’s a love triangle between her, the villain gang leader and the hero resistance leader. The tension and the relationships and the spice was HOT 🥵 I couldn’t choose between either MMC (even though one is her captor and was definitely unhinged 😈). Towards the end of the book you start to find out that things may not be as black and white as they seem.
The book ends with more questions than answers, and sets us up perfectly for book two. I was so excited when I realized that the next book in the trilogy is releasing this month on June 16th! So happy that I don’t have long to wait to continue this story. I can’t wait to dive back into this world in book two 🖤
Also, for you listeners - the audiobook was recorded in duet and the narrator performances by Heather Firth and Sean Masters were SO GOOD 🔥 Highly recommend giving this book a read or listen!
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
February 26, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!
Lissa has silver running through her veins which makes her valuable. Set in futuristic, run down LA, people will stop at nothing to get their hands on some silver. As a child she’s alone and trying her best to survive when she finds Tayna. One day everything goes wrong, now she belongs to the Ace.
This book had me feeling all the emotions. I felt sad for what Lissa goes through on the streets growing up, to nervous when she gets taken, rage for what is being done to her, and so torn over this love triangle Lissa finds herself in. Of course the choice is obvious to me, until the last chapter when you get the plot twist and left on a cliff hanger! Ugh, Jess Stevens you did me dirty with that one!
Remnants has a new magic system that I thought was original and unique. The futuristic setting was a nice change as well. This book flowed so well and was such an easy read. The author does a great job of building their world and their reality so you understand the situation Lissa is put into and why this love triangle is so hard for her.
This book is being released on March 18 and you have got to add it to your TBR, like now! I’m already ready for book 2!!!
Lissa has silver running through her veins which makes her valuable. Set in futuristic, run down LA, people will stop at nothing to get their hands on some silver. As a child she’s alone and trying her best to survive when she finds Tayna. One day everything goes wrong, now she belongs to the Ace.
This book had me feeling all the emotions. I felt sad for what Lissa goes through on the streets growing up, to nervous when she gets taken, rage for what is being done to her, and so torn over this love triangle Lissa finds herself in. Of course the choice is obvious to me, until the last chapter when you get the plot twist and left on a cliff hanger! Ugh, Jess Stevens you did me dirty with that one!
Remnants has a new magic system that I thought was original and unique. The futuristic setting was a nice change as well. This book flowed so well and was such an easy read. The author does a great job of building their world and their reality so you understand the situation Lissa is put into and why this love triangle is so hard for her.
This book is being released on March 18 and you have got to add it to your TBR, like now! I’m already ready for book 2!!!
June 7, 2026
I did immersive reading with Remnants. If you dont know what that is, its where you listen to the audiobook while following along in the book. This is honestly my favorite way of reading. It makes you feel all of the feelings so much more. And this book makes you feel alot!!! Speaking about the audiobook, this was the first time that i had just tried a duet narration. The narrators did amazing with every character. If I didnt know any better, I wouldve thought that there were more than two people narrating it.
Remnants had me feeling allllll of the feelings. Had me crying one moment, giggling at another moment, and crashing out the next. This book has everything! Enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, a love triangle that will make you frustrated because you dont know who to choose, and so much more.
It took me a good minute to get into this book as I was honestly just in a rough reading slump, but I'm so glad that I decided to stick it out. It was so good! The ending made me crash out for a good ten minutes.
I will definitely be quickly jumping into Reckonings, because I have so many questions!
Remnants had me feeling allllll of the feelings. Had me crying one moment, giggling at another moment, and crashing out the next. This book has everything! Enemies to lovers, friends to lovers, a love triangle that will make you frustrated because you dont know who to choose, and so much more.
It took me a good minute to get into this book as I was honestly just in a rough reading slump, but I'm so glad that I decided to stick it out. It was so good! The ending made me crash out for a good ten minutes.
I will definitely be quickly jumping into Reckonings, because I have so many questions!
February 25, 2025
Book one of the Silver Game series. Welcome to dystopian LA where gangs rule and rebels strive for peace again. Lissa battles to find her footing in this love triangle like no other. What a wicked game this was!
where do I start with this every page had me on edge, every twist and turn kept me in shock. Every time I thought I knew and settled and made peace with what Lissa had chosen I was torn in another direction!
Lissa drove me nuts a bit she came across so nieve at the start and I feel like for what she had already been through so early on in life she should have hardened herself sooner. But her development was good. Tayna......I loved him so much .....now I'm pissed at him! That freaking cliffhanger ugh!!
let's talk about Gideon for a second what a toxic complicated jerk! but.....yes please LIKE ON MY KNEES YES PLEASE!
All in all, I loved this book I cannot wait for the rest of the series jess did an amazing job.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
where do I start with this every page had me on edge, every twist and turn kept me in shock. Every time I thought I knew and settled and made peace with what Lissa had chosen I was torn in another direction!
Lissa drove me nuts a bit she came across so nieve at the start and I feel like for what she had already been through so early on in life she should have hardened herself sooner. But her development was good. Tayna......I loved him so much .....now I'm pissed at him! That freaking cliffhanger ugh!!
let's talk about Gideon for a second what a toxic complicated jerk! but.....yes please LIKE ON MY KNEES YES PLEASE!
All in all, I loved this book I cannot wait for the rest of the series jess did an amazing job.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2025
4.5⭐️ 5🌶️
Talk about tail spinning, unhinged, levels of twisted story telling. This is not for the faint of heart, there are triggers and I for one was not prepared for what this book had entailed. It was gripping, angsty, haunting, painful and at times had me walking away. I had to put it down a few times, and come back. I felt like I was a part of the fight, very detailed and engaging, the book pulls you in and has a hold on you….you’re either exhausted by the FMC with her inner battles (made me want to shake/slap some sense into her) or peeved at the two MMCs at different intervals, both deserving to be throat punched. The minor characters played major roles in the plot and left me with (WTH) moments. What male is really the Villain here..(No Spoilers) Ending this roller coaster of a ride, leaves you breathless and with many questions. I for one have a need know…..talk about shock and awe factor.
Talk about tail spinning, unhinged, levels of twisted story telling. This is not for the faint of heart, there are triggers and I for one was not prepared for what this book had entailed. It was gripping, angsty, haunting, painful and at times had me walking away. I had to put it down a few times, and come back. I felt like I was a part of the fight, very detailed and engaging, the book pulls you in and has a hold on you….you’re either exhausted by the FMC with her inner battles (made me want to shake/slap some sense into her) or peeved at the two MMCs at different intervals, both deserving to be throat punched. The minor characters played major roles in the plot and left me with (WTH) moments. What male is really the Villain here..(No Spoilers) Ending this roller coaster of a ride, leaves you breathless and with many questions. I for one have a need know…..talk about shock and awe factor.
March 10, 2025
ARC review
Read if you like:
- enemies to lovers
- friends to lovers
- hate to love
- gangs
- morally black MMC
- magic
- dark romantasy
Lissa is the most sought out silver because of her extraordinary abilities with it. Gideon, or Ace, has claimed her. Tayna was the original love of her life and Lissa has tried so hard to move on. There are two gangs who are fighting for control, and rebels who try to instigate with the Veiled and Cards, so far no one has come close to overtake the power that lies within the gangs.
I really enjoyed this story and I am excited to see where this goes. It had a great plot, nice twists and decent spice. It is easy to follow and despite there being a decent amount of characters, you really enjoy all of them.
I loved that it was fantasy but took place in a semi-recognizable world (dystopian LA) that references todays society. This story had all the tropes i'm obsessed with. I's ready for book 2...
Read if you like:
- enemies to lovers
- friends to lovers
- hate to love
- gangs
- morally black MMC
- magic
- dark romantasy
Lissa is the most sought out silver because of her extraordinary abilities with it. Gideon, or Ace, has claimed her. Tayna was the original love of her life and Lissa has tried so hard to move on. There are two gangs who are fighting for control, and rebels who try to instigate with the Veiled and Cards, so far no one has come close to overtake the power that lies within the gangs.
I really enjoyed this story and I am excited to see where this goes. It had a great plot, nice twists and decent spice. It is easy to follow and despite there being a decent amount of characters, you really enjoy all of them.
I loved that it was fantasy but took place in a semi-recognizable world (dystopian LA) that references todays society. This story had all the tropes i'm obsessed with. I's ready for book 2...
March 12, 2025
Dark romance fantasy with complex characters and fast paced action. I greatly appreciated how efficiently the unique gang world was introduced and how quickly we got to the meat of the story. So many fantasy books make you slog through names, locations, and complicated world-building, this one was just right.
Tiny bit repetitive at times, and some of the character bonds weren’t fully crafted in a way that was believable, but overall a captivating story.
The book is a bit dark, so check trigger warnings, if necessary, before starting.
Thank you Jess Stevens for this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. I’m looking forward to the rest of the Silver Game series!
*I didn’t pick up on too much connection to The Princess Bride, as the author had mentioned being influenced by the book/movie, but this didn’t in any way detract from my rating.
Tiny bit repetitive at times, and some of the character bonds weren’t fully crafted in a way that was believable, but overall a captivating story.
The book is a bit dark, so check trigger warnings, if necessary, before starting.
Thank you Jess Stevens for this advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. I’m looking forward to the rest of the Silver Game series!
*I didn’t pick up on too much connection to The Princess Bride, as the author had mentioned being influenced by the book/movie, but this didn’t in any way detract from my rating.
May 26, 2026
This book had me in a chokehold. Very dark--but oh so gripping! The setting is a dystopian LA, essentially. There is a power struggle between gangs. The gang-dynamic reminded me of similar themes you’d see in a mafia romance. So, lots of violence; gangs have internal hierarchies etc. This dystopian world is literally powered by the blood of “silvers”--which are (mostly) women. Lissa, our FMC, is an ultra-powerful silver who is used for her blood by The Cards. Gideon, leader of The Cards gang, is absolutely morally black (obsessive, possessive, sadistic). Side characters stand out (Kenji reading Pride & Prejudice? loved it.). It is hard to say too much about the characters’ dynamics without spoiling. There are some so many twists. And the ending will have you screaming. So many emotions! If you are a dark romance fan that also likes fantasy elements--this is a must read.
Check Triggers!
Check Triggers!
June 10, 2026
This was such a FUN TIME! I both listened on audio and read the e-reader version - the narrators were phenomenal and were perfect for these characters. The story was dark, spicy, action-packed, and the characters were all so dynamic and multilayered. Honestly, I found myself loving the side characters and constantly going back on forth whether or not I liked the 3 main characters in the love triangle (and I love not knowing whether or not I like a character right away). The dystopian setting was so different compared to most dystopian books I’ve read and the magic system is incredibly unique. It was an easy read, and the writing style was easy to follow and engaging. It gave me similar vibes to the Plated Prisoner series (which is one of my favorite series of all time!). For the first book in a trilogy, I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to read the second book!
March 1, 2025
Holy….. Shit….. cliffhanger… LITERALLY
Going in I knew this was a 3 book series but now I’m in the fetal position.
Wanna play a game of cards 🃏 … but really it’s chess ♟️
Lissa Is our FMC a Silver (magical blood needed by everyone who is not a silver)
Gideon (Cards Gang Leader (known as Ace)) he is her captor, lover, and protector
Enter Tayna the thought to be gone childhood friend to create the most juicy love triangle..
The way the MMCs are so unapologetically obsessed with her is delicious. 🤤
Both “touch her and 💀”
The way the plot twists and then decides to turn again just left me hand over mouth, edge of seat, eyes wide.
“You are more than your body and your silver blood”
“You’re everything”
“I’ll never leave you again, Liss. Even at the end.”
Going in I knew this was a 3 book series but now I’m in the fetal position.
Wanna play a game of cards 🃏 … but really it’s chess ♟️
Lissa Is our FMC a Silver (magical blood needed by everyone who is not a silver)
Gideon (Cards Gang Leader (known as Ace)) he is her captor, lover, and protector
Enter Tayna the thought to be gone childhood friend to create the most juicy love triangle..
The way the MMCs are so unapologetically obsessed with her is delicious. 🤤
Both “touch her and 💀”
The way the plot twists and then decides to turn again just left me hand over mouth, edge of seat, eyes wide.
“You are more than your body and your silver blood”
“You’re everything”
“I’ll never leave you again, Liss. Even at the end.”
March 11, 2025
🖤ARC Review🖤
I really enjoyed the unique magic system and thought it was different than anything I’ve read before. I also thought it had great plot and the twists were so good!
This book was super fast paced - I was craving to know more about the characters & their relationships to fully understand the complexity & depth of their feelings, which I feel would hit harder for me! Also was expecting more spice since I feel its 2.5 on the spice level but I feel like more is coming in book 2.
The last 25% of the book was so exciting and I grew to love the side characters so much. Feel like there is so much potential for the next books in the series because it’s a really cool world & we’re just getting started.
I really enjoyed the unique magic system and thought it was different than anything I’ve read before. I also thought it had great plot and the twists were so good!
This book was super fast paced - I was craving to know more about the characters & their relationships to fully understand the complexity & depth of their feelings, which I feel would hit harder for me! Also was expecting more spice since I feel its 2.5 on the spice level but I feel like more is coming in book 2.
The last 25% of the book was so exciting and I grew to love the side characters so much. Feel like there is so much potential for the next books in the series because it’s a really cool world & we’re just getting started.
June 3, 2026
This dark fantasy romance ABSOLUTELY DELIVERED! First, the narrators, Heather Firth, Sean Masters, ABSOLUTELY AMAZING with voicing these characters. I not only felt every emotion, but I was on the edge of my seat wondering at times what was going to happen next. Please read the content warning (or listen to it) if you are concerned with dark vibes. The struggle between the love our FMC shares for two men, the path she has to take to find her own true self. And the control she must learn when it comes to her own powers. This was an amazing ride. And seriously, that ending. I probably should have guessed that all was not as it seemed. This is a play off the Princess bride... but I definitely enjoyed the twist, and the spice that was included in this version!
February 23, 2025
OMG!!!! This book is pure gold…. Well Silver. 😉
Jess takes you on a wild ride with this book and it does not disappoint!!
Lissa is a Silver trying to hide her special blood from the gangs who want her for the silver in her blood. She becomes a Queen for the Cards but I think she will become a true Queen in the next book. Her growth is beautiful!!
The love triangle she develops between two Gang leaders is beautifully tragic to say the least. I was really routing for Gideon to turn a corner at first but, Tayna has my heart. 💔
The twist and turns this book took were compelling and unexpected. The cliffhanger at the end **chefs 💋 **
I cannot wait for the second book!!!
Jess takes you on a wild ride with this book and it does not disappoint!!
Lissa is a Silver trying to hide her special blood from the gangs who want her for the silver in her blood. She becomes a Queen for the Cards but I think she will become a true Queen in the next book. Her growth is beautiful!!
The love triangle she develops between two Gang leaders is beautifully tragic to say the least. I was really routing for Gideon to turn a corner at first but, Tayna has my heart. 💔
The twist and turns this book took were compelling and unexpected. The cliffhanger at the end **chefs 💋 **
I cannot wait for the second book!!!
March 17, 2025
Remnants
By Jess Stevens
I received this book as an ARC. I didn't know much about this book this book when I signed up to ARC read it. Once I started this book, i couldn't put it down. I didn't know what to expect, but this was beyond what i was expecting. I loved it. So freaking good. I definitely went through all the emotions with this one. I love the characters and the story. So many twists and turns keep you guessing what is going to happen.
5 star read
I definitely recommend this book!
It's one of my new favorites! I can't wait for the next one!
Add this one to your TBR. The release date is March 18 2025
By Jess Stevens
I received this book as an ARC. I didn't know much about this book this book when I signed up to ARC read it. Once I started this book, i couldn't put it down. I didn't know what to expect, but this was beyond what i was expecting. I loved it. So freaking good. I definitely went through all the emotions with this one. I love the characters and the story. So many twists and turns keep you guessing what is going to happen.
5 star read
I definitely recommend this book!
It's one of my new favorites! I can't wait for the next one!
Add this one to your TBR. The release date is March 18 2025
June 12, 2026
Well, here I am cheering for the villain again. I received this book as an advanced listener copy so did it on audiobook and it was SO GOOD. The love triangle in this book had me going back on forth on who I was rooting for the entire book and honestly, I'm still not decided. You love to hate Gideon but the man has some very particular skills that I find very...intriguing. This book was so well written and I cannot wait for more (cliffhanger warning!) A unique story, well executed, with great spice and tension that will have you crawling the walls. This book is definitely worth a read (or listen!)
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