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Crystal Iris
She was warned. He was cursed. Neither of them listened.
A necklace that feeds on blood.
A forbidden touch.
A love that could destroy them both.
On the night of my engagement party, my estranged father crashed back into my life—only to disappear again, leaving behind a prism necklace I can’t take off.
It’s not just jewelry.
It’s alive.
It pulses with ancient magic—blood-bound, volatile, and hungry for more than I understand.
Now it’s changing me—pulling me away from the life I swore I wanted… and toward Hoyt Locklear, a stranger forged in secrets and danger.
A man with a prism of his own.
A man I was never supposed to touch.
Because when our skin meets, the magic strikes back.
Violent. Addictive. Punishing.
And still, I can’t stay away.
Caught between a fiancé who promised me safety—and a man whose touch feels like fate—I’m falling deeper into a prophecy I can’t escape.
The longer I wear this necklace, the more it owns me.
And the less I want to be saved.
For readers who crave forbidden love, cursed magic, and stories where desire demands a price.
A necklace that feeds on blood.
A forbidden touch.
A love that could destroy them both.
On the night of my engagement party, my estranged father crashed back into my life—only to disappear again, leaving behind a prism necklace I can’t take off.
It’s not just jewelry.
It’s alive.
It pulses with ancient magic—blood-bound, volatile, and hungry for more than I understand.
Now it’s changing me—pulling me away from the life I swore I wanted… and toward Hoyt Locklear, a stranger forged in secrets and danger.
A man with a prism of his own.
A man I was never supposed to touch.
Because when our skin meets, the magic strikes back.
Violent. Addictive. Punishing.
And still, I can’t stay away.
Caught between a fiancé who promised me safety—and a man whose touch feels like fate—I’m falling deeper into a prophecy I can’t escape.
The longer I wear this necklace, the more it owns me.
And the less I want to be saved.
For readers who crave forbidden love, cursed magic, and stories where desire demands a price.
Audiobook
First published November 27, 2024
89 people are currently reading
3120 people want to read
About the author
Blair M. Shadows
5 books85 followers Blair Shadows writes mystical love stories packed with forbidden tension, devastating men, and heroines who don’t beg—they bite. Crowned Queen of Mystical Romance (but she prefers Host of Bad Decisions), Blair is known for slow burns, sharp turns, and books that leave a mark.
Find her on Instagram and TikTok @authorblairshadows—or join the Shadows Society, where bad decisions are served on ice.
Find her on Instagram and TikTok @authorblairshadows—or join the Shadows Society, where bad decisions are served on ice.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
January 24, 2025
Couldn't put his down. Mystical, romance and a HUGE twist at the end of the book I never saw coming.
10 hours of entertainment via audio book. Grab yourself a drink of choice, comfortable place to enjoy this intriguing story
10 hours of entertainment via audio book. Grab yourself a drink of choice, comfortable place to enjoy this intriguing story
February 1, 2025
Happy publication day 🥳🎉🥳
3.5 🌟
This title is the first in a series and it had the definite slow start of a series with a build to an ending that really left me desperate to catch the next one.
I’d categorise this title more as a very light fantasy with a much larger amount of romantasy and some definite spice.
I really enjoyed the fact that our protagonist was slightly older, it was such a refreshing change to have actual grown adults, who’ve lived a bit, have a career etc, I really enjoyed the art history lessons that were dropped in because of this. I enjoyed the pair being drawn together by an amulet, and if the ending is anything to go by this is going to lead to a brilliant fantasy series.
I have to be honest, the cover and the title could be played around with a bit more before release date, and possibly a bit of final editing to maybe shorten the book, there was a lot that felt unnecessary and it did make it drag a little bit in the middle. However everything that was good was solid. I mean this with the greatest of respect, a bit of polishing really would make this a huge hit.
The audio narration was good, if a little bit gappy 🎧
Huge thanks to Leblon publishing via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
3.5 🌟
This title is the first in a series and it had the definite slow start of a series with a build to an ending that really left me desperate to catch the next one.
I’d categorise this title more as a very light fantasy with a much larger amount of romantasy and some definite spice.
I really enjoyed the fact that our protagonist was slightly older, it was such a refreshing change to have actual grown adults, who’ve lived a bit, have a career etc, I really enjoyed the art history lessons that were dropped in because of this. I enjoyed the pair being drawn together by an amulet, and if the ending is anything to go by this is going to lead to a brilliant fantasy series.
I have to be honest, the cover and the title could be played around with a bit more before release date, and possibly a bit of final editing to maybe shorten the book, there was a lot that felt unnecessary and it did make it drag a little bit in the middle. However everything that was good was solid. I mean this with the greatest of respect, a bit of polishing really would make this a huge hit.
The audio narration was good, if a little bit gappy 🎧
Huge thanks to Leblon publishing via NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
November 30, 2024
This is perfect for urban fantasy fans looking for a touch of magic, mystery & spice ❤️ I love it when I find a book that has an older, smart & accomplished female-lead!
We follow Iris, a Harvard art history professor. She is REALLY good at what she does. If you enjoy art, you will like the passages about Iris’ lessons. She is engaged to her best friend, Aaron, who she has known all her life and has always been there for her. However, strange things start to happen after she discovers an old heirloom left to her by her mother… the necklace seems to be magical and somehow connects her to a mysterious man who she has never met before.
Iris feels a strong pull to this man, and an even stronger pull towards her necklace. We slowly witness her become torn between two men (the love triangle trope is one of my guilty pleasures) and at the same time trying to figure out the mystery behind her necklace. The story reads like a romantic suspense, with a slow burn romance and lots of family intrigue and drama. My only feedback is that the spice doesn’t happen until almost to the end of the book so I wouldn’t consider this book “wicked spicy” as the cover states, and also not a Romantasy. What kept my eyes glued to the pages was the suspense, the betrayals, the intrigue, the mystery!😍 I couldn’t stop reading until I found out what was this necklace? Why can’t they touch each other without burning? Why did her mother leave it to her? What can it do? All these questions kept burning through my mind!
Overall a intriguing romantic suspense with a touch of magic that will keep you guessing until the very end!
What you can expect:
• slow burn romance
• love triangle
• urban fantasy
• 🌶️ 🌶️/5 spice
• strong friendships
• betrayals
• a touch of magic
We follow Iris, a Harvard art history professor. She is REALLY good at what she does. If you enjoy art, you will like the passages about Iris’ lessons. She is engaged to her best friend, Aaron, who she has known all her life and has always been there for her. However, strange things start to happen after she discovers an old heirloom left to her by her mother… the necklace seems to be magical and somehow connects her to a mysterious man who she has never met before.
Iris feels a strong pull to this man, and an even stronger pull towards her necklace. We slowly witness her become torn between two men (the love triangle trope is one of my guilty pleasures) and at the same time trying to figure out the mystery behind her necklace. The story reads like a romantic suspense, with a slow burn romance and lots of family intrigue and drama. My only feedback is that the spice doesn’t happen until almost to the end of the book so I wouldn’t consider this book “wicked spicy” as the cover states, and also not a Romantasy. What kept my eyes glued to the pages was the suspense, the betrayals, the intrigue, the mystery!😍 I couldn’t stop reading until I found out what was this necklace? Why can’t they touch each other without burning? Why did her mother leave it to her? What can it do? All these questions kept burning through my mind!
Overall a intriguing romantic suspense with a touch of magic that will keep you guessing until the very end!
What you can expect:
• slow burn romance
• love triangle
• urban fantasy
• 🌶️ 🌶️/5 spice
• strong friendships
• betrayals
• a touch of magic
May 24, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Leblon Publishing for the opportunity to read and review the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
This was a slow burn romance between two people who are connected by a magic they know nothing about. Iris is given a prism necklace that belonged to her mother and now she can’t take it off. Hoyt has one as well and they are immediately drawn to each other. His prism makes it hard to touch her without pain but they find a way around it. Iris’s life is completely turned upside down and by the end she’s running for her life. It kept my attention and left me wanting more. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
This was a slow burn romance between two people who are connected by a magic they know nothing about. Iris is given a prism necklace that belonged to her mother and now she can’t take it off. Hoyt has one as well and they are immediately drawn to each other. His prism makes it hard to touch her without pain but they find a way around it. Iris’s life is completely turned upside down and by the end she’s running for her life. It kept my attention and left me wanting more. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
November 14, 2024
4.7/5
I really wanted to give it a perfect 5, at some points in the begging I didn't understand. Or was a bit bored in. But it's not the fault of the book, I just kept thinking about what was going happening next and was getting impatient for that "turn".
"Thank you for being...patient with me," I said, touching his face.
"I would have waited my whole life for this," he told me, grabbing my hair gently.
I was just expecting to read this over the next few days. Start very late in the night and before e knew it, I was done. Because I kept wanting to get to that turning point, it kept me engaged. The tension between the MCs and how Iris is going to get out of these predicaments. I want MORE!
I have no complaints about this book!
I loved how the author connects the FMC art lesson with the plot of each chapter, of what's going in the book during that time. If you truly understand art, I feel you would understand a good amount of the connections that were made.
The tension between Iris and the MC, was whew!!! The way the MC took take of Iris and helped her find herself was so cute!
Iris
We loveeeeeee an educated boss! Don't get her being shy confused with being timid! I loved how she always spoke up for herself and how she always tried to come up with a solution. Seeing grow was truly admirable, and not in a way that's child like. Or as is if she was never allowed to do things, we see more her understanding how restricted she's been within herself and letting go of that. Which is something I personally relate to.
✨The MMC✨
A MAN! Can definitely see right away how much he cares for Iris. Through out we also get to see how much he adores her. He's protective, a leader, caring, and the epitome of action > words. I can't wait to learn more about him and see how they connect with each other more.
For those interested, the smut. It's a good balance of giving something for the readers, but not taking away from the story line. It's a good 3/5 spice level, combined of how much and what the MCs do.
I really wanted to give it a perfect 5, at some points in the begging I didn't understand. Or was a bit bored in. But it's not the fault of the book, I just kept thinking about what was going happening next and was getting impatient for that "turn".
"Thank you for being...patient with me," I said, touching his face.
"I would have waited my whole life for this," he told me, grabbing my hair gently.
I was just expecting to read this over the next few days. Start very late in the night and before e knew it, I was done. Because I kept wanting to get to that turning point, it kept me engaged. The tension between the MCs and how Iris is going to get out of these predicaments. I want MORE!
I have no complaints about this book!
I loved how the author connects the FMC art lesson with the plot of each chapter, of what's going in the book during that time. If you truly understand art, I feel you would understand a good amount of the connections that were made.
The tension between Iris and the MC, was whew!!! The way the MC took take of Iris and helped her find herself was so cute!
Iris
We loveeeeeee an educated boss! Don't get her being shy confused with being timid! I loved how she always spoke up for herself and how she always tried to come up with a solution. Seeing grow was truly admirable, and not in a way that's child like. Or as is if she was never allowed to do things, we see more her understanding how restricted she's been within herself and letting go of that. Which is something I personally relate to.
✨The MMC✨
A MAN! Can definitely see right away how much he cares for Iris. Through out we also get to see how much he adores her. He's protective, a leader, caring, and the epitome of action > words. I can't wait to learn more about him and see how they connect with each other more.
For those interested, the smut. It's a good balance of giving something for the readers, but not taking away from the story line. It's a good 3/5 spice level, combined of how much and what the MCs do.
July 21, 2025
Okay hello new concept ?!
I went in blind and I’m so glad I did. Having not knowing what I was dipping my toes into, I got to thoroughly enjoy a modern take of a curse.
I really enjoyed our fmc, Iris. She was very relatable. A Harvard proff / art history nerd who loves music with family issues? Yep can relate (not the Harvard part… lol). I didn’t like Aaron from the beginning, but Holt? YEP!!!
The back and forth of her emotions between the love triangle took up a lot of time but it was necessary, because sometimes the feelings are just swept under the bus and it doesn’t seem realistic. This was true to how someone would ACTUALLY feel in this situation.
I LOVE the “she can’t touch him” trope. It’s different, and makes things difficult for their possible relationship.
Some things seemed to be a little glanced over, or rushed towards the end, but luckily, book 2 is coming soon and I don’t have to worry ;)
Thank you NetGalley, publishers, and Blaire for allowed me this advanced copy !
I went in blind and I’m so glad I did. Having not knowing what I was dipping my toes into, I got to thoroughly enjoy a modern take of a curse.
I really enjoyed our fmc, Iris. She was very relatable. A Harvard proff / art history nerd who loves music with family issues? Yep can relate (not the Harvard part… lol). I didn’t like Aaron from the beginning, but Holt? YEP!!!
The back and forth of her emotions between the love triangle took up a lot of time but it was necessary, because sometimes the feelings are just swept under the bus and it doesn’t seem realistic. This was true to how someone would ACTUALLY feel in this situation.
I LOVE the “she can’t touch him” trope. It’s different, and makes things difficult for their possible relationship.
Some things seemed to be a little glanced over, or rushed towards the end, but luckily, book 2 is coming soon and I don’t have to worry ;)
Thank you NetGalley, publishers, and Blaire for allowed me this advanced copy !
November 28, 2024
When I tell you I GOBBLED this book up! I was sucked into the main characters story immediately, she was so easy to connect to, feel like I knew her. This story kept me on my toes, kept me wondering, I could not put it down! If you want mystery, romance, betrayal, friendship, spice, you MUST read this!
I will be suffering until book two 😂
I will be suffering until book two 😂
January 28, 2025
This book had the perfect amount of magic and romance!
January 4, 2025
Where to start! I didn't want to put it down, but i also didn't want to end, and now I HAVE to read the next book when it comes out. Iris goes from being a normal person to having to deal with magic and being hunted, and dealing with her love life and professional life as well. Very well written.
December 31, 2024
I loved this book! The story and characters were amazing! And I have a thing for white horses ❤️😍 minimal spice! And it’s all toward the end!
December 29, 2024
Mysterious, Intriguing, and fantastic storytelling. This was a fabulous read and I am amazed it’s a debut! I will be here impatiently waiting on the next installment!
✔️ mystery
✔️ heroine chests with hero
✔️ cowboy
✔️ favorites
✔️ mystery
✔️ heroine chests with hero
✔️ cowboy
✔️ favorites
November 26, 2024
Book Review: Crystal Iris
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
If you’re a fan of impossible love, slow-burn romances, love triangles, and a sprinkle of magic, Crystal Iris is the book for you! This romantasy blends the perfect mix of tropes: a billionaire boyfriend, an academic backdrop, a touch of spice, and a mysterious magical necklace that ties the story together.
The story follows Iris, a 30-year-old woman navigating her path to self-discovery while juggling the weight of childhood trauma, family loss, and betrayal. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits a magical necklace from her late mother on her 30th birthday—a gift that holds more secrets than she ever imagined. As Iris begins to uncover the necklace’s mysteries, her world is turned upside down by two very different men: one who seems like her perfect match on paper and another who stirs something deep within her soul.
The slow-burn romance is captivating, full of tension and longing, as Iris struggles to choose between what feels safe and what her heart truly desires. The love triangle is perfectly executed, keeping you guessing and rooting for your favorite suitor. The academic undertones add depth to the story, while the billionaire boyfriend trope adds a touch of escapism that romance lovers will adore.
What I loved most about Crystal Iris is its message: being 30 doesn’t mean you have everything figured out. It’s never too late to take risks, follow your heart, and embrace change. The added layer of fantasy—woven through the magical necklace—adds intrigue and mystery, giving this romance a unique edge.
The pacing is spot-on, allowing the story to unfold naturally. As secrets are revealed and emotions come to a boil, you can’t help but get swept up in Iris’s journey of self-discovery, love, and courage.
This is a perfect read for anyone who loves cozy romance with a hint of spice, mystery, and magic. Curl up with Crystal Iris on a rainy day, and prepare to fall for its irresistible charm—and maybe, just maybe, find your new book boyfriend too.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
If you’re a fan of impossible love, slow-burn romances, love triangles, and a sprinkle of magic, Crystal Iris is the book for you! This romantasy blends the perfect mix of tropes: a billionaire boyfriend, an academic backdrop, a touch of spice, and a mysterious magical necklace that ties the story together.
The story follows Iris, a 30-year-old woman navigating her path to self-discovery while juggling the weight of childhood trauma, family loss, and betrayal. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits a magical necklace from her late mother on her 30th birthday—a gift that holds more secrets than she ever imagined. As Iris begins to uncover the necklace’s mysteries, her world is turned upside down by two very different men: one who seems like her perfect match on paper and another who stirs something deep within her soul.
The slow-burn romance is captivating, full of tension and longing, as Iris struggles to choose between what feels safe and what her heart truly desires. The love triangle is perfectly executed, keeping you guessing and rooting for your favorite suitor. The academic undertones add depth to the story, while the billionaire boyfriend trope adds a touch of escapism that romance lovers will adore.
What I loved most about Crystal Iris is its message: being 30 doesn’t mean you have everything figured out. It’s never too late to take risks, follow your heart, and embrace change. The added layer of fantasy—woven through the magical necklace—adds intrigue and mystery, giving this romance a unique edge.
The pacing is spot-on, allowing the story to unfold naturally. As secrets are revealed and emotions come to a boil, you can’t help but get swept up in Iris’s journey of self-discovery, love, and courage.
This is a perfect read for anyone who loves cozy romance with a hint of spice, mystery, and magic. Curl up with Crystal Iris on a rainy day, and prepare to fall for its irresistible charm—and maybe, just maybe, find your new book boyfriend too.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC!
December 10, 2024
Little bit of a slow start but picked up after a bit. Very original story line with lots of. Interesting twists and turns. The relationships were so hard to get going then so much pain the ending is heartrending I’m trusting that the next book will go easier.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 18, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Netgalley for this arc
Being with someone for too long can change your way with love. That sentiment is the beating heart of Crystal Iris by Blair M. Shadows, and it's beautifully explored through Iris, a Harvard art professor whose world is upended by unexpected emotions and an enigmatic necklace.
The story delivers a compelling mix of intrigue and romance, with a slow-burn dynamic that feels authentic and deeply satisfying. I especially appreciated the lack of a third-act breakup—it's refreshing to read a romance that leans into growth and resolution instead of unnecessary drama.
The pacing is just right, keeping you hooked without feeling rushed. Shadows skillfully builds tension, both emotional and plot-driven, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. The mysterious necklace woven throughout the narrative adds an extra layer of intrigue that kept me flipping the pages.
If you're looking for a slow-burn romance with a touch of mystery and a promise of more to come, Crystal Iris is definitely worth picking up. I can’t wait to see where Shadows takes us next in this series!
Thanks to Netgalley for this arc
Being with someone for too long can change your way with love. That sentiment is the beating heart of Crystal Iris by Blair M. Shadows, and it's beautifully explored through Iris, a Harvard art professor whose world is upended by unexpected emotions and an enigmatic necklace.
The story delivers a compelling mix of intrigue and romance, with a slow-burn dynamic that feels authentic and deeply satisfying. I especially appreciated the lack of a third-act breakup—it's refreshing to read a romance that leans into growth and resolution instead of unnecessary drama.
The pacing is just right, keeping you hooked without feeling rushed. Shadows skillfully builds tension, both emotional and plot-driven, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. The mysterious necklace woven throughout the narrative adds an extra layer of intrigue that kept me flipping the pages.
If you're looking for a slow-burn romance with a touch of mystery and a promise of more to come, Crystal Iris is definitely worth picking up. I can’t wait to see where Shadows takes us next in this series!
December 4, 2024
Couldn’t put this down and can’t wait for the next book. I really related to the main character. Especially loved that she was in her 30’s. If you like art, mystery, spice and love triangles, this is your book.
November 25, 2024
I found this a bit slow to get into but it soon picked up and I couldn’t put it down! I really loved the little quotes with each chapter heading, such a nice touch and the Art History references were very interesting.
There is intrigue, mystery and SO many questions to be answered throughout the book regarding the prisms that Hoyt and Iris wear. I really wished she’d read her Mums letter earlier lol.
The way it ended? ….. I mean what a cliffy! It definitely left you hanging and wanting more. I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment.
There is intrigue, mystery and SO many questions to be answered throughout the book regarding the prisms that Hoyt and Iris wear. I really wished she’d read her Mums letter earlier lol.
The way it ended? ….. I mean what a cliffy! It definitely left you hanging and wanting more. I’m looking forward to reading the next instalment.
November 26, 2024
This story. Amazing.
Amulet. Bonded. Power
Hoyt & Iris
Oh Aaron you're not a bad guy
Once I got into this book I couldn't stop reading it. The slow burn was so rough. It took forever for them.
Wasn't sure I'd like this read initially as I don't read romantasy genre. But it was a great read. I'm definitely hooked the ending left me wanting more. Can not wait for the next installment in this series.
Thank you NetGalley for this opportunity to read this book.
Amulet. Bonded. Power
Hoyt & Iris
Oh Aaron you're not a bad guy
Once I got into this book I couldn't stop reading it. The slow burn was so rough. It took forever for them.
Wasn't sure I'd like this read initially as I don't read romantasy genre. But it was a great read. I'm definitely hooked the ending left me wanting more. Can not wait for the next installment in this series.
Thank you NetGalley for this opportunity to read this book.
November 27, 2024
Absolute page turner .. when I say I could not put it down! Really enjoyed living in the world of Iris, the amount of detail and thought that went into not only the characters but the plot. Chefs kiss! The adventure of a lifetime and it has only just begun, I cannot wait to read the next instalment to find out what happens next!
January 14, 2025
I’m left wanting more after reading this book. To me, it had the perfect touch of magical realism. It is more so a romance book. The ending has me anxious to find out what is going to happen next in this story. I was surprised by the turn of events at the end of the book. However, it sets the story up for the next book perfectly.
🖤Love triangle
🖤impossible love
🖤 mysterious magical prism
🖤 academia
🖤 long distance
Thank you so much for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
🖤Love triangle
🖤impossible love
🖤 mysterious magical prism
🖤 academia
🖤 long distance
Thank you so much for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2025
3.5 stars rounded to 4 for GR.
I stepped out of my normal thriller genre to give this one a chance.
Slow start for sure but with the twisted ending it left you wanting more and I’ll most likely read the second book when it comes out.
Spice level : 3.5 🌶️
Romantic headed to explicit
One scene was detailed, while another was quickly described if that makes any sense.
I stepped out of my normal thriller genre to give this one a chance.
Slow start for sure but with the twisted ending it left you wanting more and I’ll most likely read the second book when it comes out.
Spice level : 3.5 🌶️
Romantic headed to explicit
One scene was detailed, while another was quickly described if that makes any sense.
December 19, 2024
“Life beats down and crushes the soul and art reminds you that you have one.” – Stella Adler”
I love the cover. Definitely in my discreet era 😜
I wasn’t to enamoured by the blurb if I’m honest. And maybe I should have gone in blind. Sometime you are pleasantly surprised.
“The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize.” – Robert Hughes”
But the book, the book had a few issues, but I couldn’t put it down until the last page was done.
It was a little slow in places, and a few discrepancies, but it didn’t take away from the drama and storytelling.
I also liked the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter, I’m not a big lover of history (although I do read historical romance 😉) but I found the snippets the author gave us really fascinating, I felt it added something extra to the story. The MFC is a history professor, so it was a good idea that she could actually tell us a little a little it.)
“One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself.” – Leonardo da Vinci”
MFC is an older character (which I always like, love isn’t just for the young you know 😉) and with an established career and life already. But life isn’t always played out the way you plan it……
Iris is given a gift from an absent father (we get to find out more through the book.) At first Iris wants nothing to with her father or the gift, but curiosity wins out…..
“The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.” – Paul Strand”
What I liked was this book didn’t info dump on you, it gave it in easy segments, so that it didn’t overwhelm or confuse the reader. (I don’t need confusing thanks 😉)
Hoyt is also a prism holder. And that’s what connects them at first. The friendship grows and venues something more….
But we also have mystery and drama. And that’s the bit I loved. It keeps you wondering how this will turn out
There are so many questions that need answering in the book …..
What’s a prism?
What’s its purpose?
How does it involve Iris and Hoyt?
And do her mother’s letters hold more clues or questions?
You will have to read the book to find out if my questions are answered.
And the ending!! What a way to leave it open for the next book (which i hope is soon 🤞)
SO if you ignore the blurb and dive straight in I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Plenty of intrigue and mystery. A puzzle that needs solving (I did guess a few things pretty quick, but others completely surprised me.) it says a spicy romance, and then someone describes it as a slow burn 🤷🏻♀️ I’ll leave that for you to decide.
🦋
I love the cover. Definitely in my discreet era 😜
I wasn’t to enamoured by the blurb if I’m honest. And maybe I should have gone in blind. Sometime you are pleasantly surprised.
“The greater the artist, the greater the doubt. Perfect confidence is granted to the less talented as a consolation prize.” – Robert Hughes”
But the book, the book had a few issues, but I couldn’t put it down until the last page was done.
It was a little slow in places, and a few discrepancies, but it didn’t take away from the drama and storytelling.
I also liked the little quotes at the beginning of each chapter, I’m not a big lover of history (although I do read historical romance 😉) but I found the snippets the author gave us really fascinating, I felt it added something extra to the story. The MFC is a history professor, so it was a good idea that she could actually tell us a little a little it.)
“One can have no smaller or greater mastery than mastery of oneself.” – Leonardo da Vinci”
MFC is an older character (which I always like, love isn’t just for the young you know 😉) and with an established career and life already. But life isn’t always played out the way you plan it……
Iris is given a gift from an absent father (we get to find out more through the book.) At first Iris wants nothing to with her father or the gift, but curiosity wins out…..
“The artist’s world is limitless. It can be found anywhere, far from where he lives or a few feet away. It is always on his doorstep.” – Paul Strand”
What I liked was this book didn’t info dump on you, it gave it in easy segments, so that it didn’t overwhelm or confuse the reader. (I don’t need confusing thanks 😉)
Hoyt is also a prism holder. And that’s what connects them at first. The friendship grows and venues something more….
But we also have mystery and drama. And that’s the bit I loved. It keeps you wondering how this will turn out
There are so many questions that need answering in the book …..
What’s a prism?
What’s its purpose?
How does it involve Iris and Hoyt?
And do her mother’s letters hold more clues or questions?
You will have to read the book to find out if my questions are answered.
And the ending!! What a way to leave it open for the next book (which i hope is soon 🤞)
SO if you ignore the blurb and dive straight in I don’t think you’ll be disappointed. Plenty of intrigue and mystery. A puzzle that needs solving (I did guess a few things pretty quick, but others completely surprised me.) it says a spicy romance, and then someone describes it as a slow burn 🤷🏻♀️ I’ll leave that for you to decide.
🦋
January 14, 2025
what a breath of fresh air to read a story where the characters are mature and not perfect!
January 7, 2025
This book had a bit of a slow start, but kept my attention.
Interesting story! I enjoyed it and am excited to see where book 2 goes and how the mysteries are cleared up!
I do have to say, the book was a bit different than I had been expecting from the phrase on the front "wicked spicy romantasy". I personally wouldn't classify this as a romantasy....urban fantasy romance maybe. The fantasy level was very low, it was basically our world plus magical mysterious prism necklaces.
🌶️🌶️/5, low spice and not very descriptive.
Interesting story! I enjoyed it and am excited to see where book 2 goes and how the mysteries are cleared up!
I do have to say, the book was a bit different than I had been expecting from the phrase on the front "wicked spicy romantasy". I personally wouldn't classify this as a romantasy....urban fantasy romance maybe. The fantasy level was very low, it was basically our world plus magical mysterious prism necklaces.
🌶️🌶️/5, low spice and not very descriptive.
February 2, 2025
This book was everything. I loved the magical aspects of it and the slow burn? It was everything! Just the angst and the wanting you couldn’t help feel from the two main characters was so beautifully written! I couldn’t get enough and I love that it’s the first in the series. If you are looking for an amazing romantasy look no further!
January 9, 2025
This book drew me in and I never knew where it was going. I enjoyed the storyline and the character development along the way.
December 28, 2024
This book was so interesting! The characters were all very likeable with the 2 MFCs being intelligent, independent and well educated women and this was a huge plus for me. The introduction of the Crystal was definitely a mystery and I found myself yelling at Iris to just open the damn letter!!!! But of course that would have been too easy 😅
This story was very unique, I’ve not come across something like this before. I really liked Hoyt and his friends and I could see that this family of people were great for both Iris and Akira. The slow burn (pardon the pun) between Iris and Hoyt was soooooo good 🔥 the way they couldn’t even touch each other added a whole extra layer to their complicated relationship and chemistry. Thank goodness for loopholes!
The second book in this series cannot come fast enough because I need to know what’s going to happen for Iris and her found family and I just know that Hoyt and Aaron will search the world for her until they find her. This is an urban fantasy full of mystery and I can’t wait for the mystery and magic to unfold!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
This story was very unique, I’ve not come across something like this before. I really liked Hoyt and his friends and I could see that this family of people were great for both Iris and Akira. The slow burn (pardon the pun) between Iris and Hoyt was soooooo good 🔥 the way they couldn’t even touch each other added a whole extra layer to their complicated relationship and chemistry. Thank goodness for loopholes!
The second book in this series cannot come fast enough because I need to know what’s going to happen for Iris and her found family and I just know that Hoyt and Aaron will search the world for her until they find her. This is an urban fantasy full of mystery and I can’t wait for the mystery and magic to unfold!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review
December 15, 2024
4 stars! 🌶️🌶️!
This was a great read - urban fantasy, slow burn, love triangle with a hint of forbidden love/physical intimacy. The story was incredibly unique, and the pacing was very easy to go along with. At first, it was a little hard to see where the story was going/I was confused but I soon latched on and didn’t look back!
I really enjoyed this book and the main characters - I found the MMC to be relatable and really appreciated that she isn’t 21!!! The ending was straight emotional wreckage, and I hope the wait for book 2 isn’t very long!
Thank you to Blair M. Shadows, Leblon Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading.
This was a great read - urban fantasy, slow burn, love triangle with a hint of forbidden love/physical intimacy. The story was incredibly unique, and the pacing was very easy to go along with. At first, it was a little hard to see where the story was going/I was confused but I soon latched on and didn’t look back!
I really enjoyed this book and the main characters - I found the MMC to be relatable and really appreciated that she isn’t 21!!! The ending was straight emotional wreckage, and I hope the wait for book 2 isn’t very long!
Thank you to Blair M. Shadows, Leblon Publishing, and NetGalley for the eARC of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading.
December 17, 2024
This book was a unique story with a heck of a cliffhanger (which means I will be on edge until book 2 comes out!). This book had a lot of interesting things going on that kept you intrigued and wanting to keep reading, the characters were amazing. I really liked that our FMC wasn't some 19 year old, after reading so many romantasies - that gets old after a while. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was slow burn but worth it!
December 30, 2024
Magical
B...you have some imagination. The book was fantastic. I am a book connoisseur. I read one book a day....different genres over the months. Right now I am reading Dark mafia romances. But I also really like fantasy and books with magic. I did not see the end of your book coming. It was a such a surprise although I had a feeling about somethings. I don't want to be a spoiler. Can't wait for the next book. How are you liking Texas? Say hi to your husband and your little guy...miss seeing him. Take care and Congratulations!!!!...Linda F.
B...you have some imagination. The book was fantastic. I am a book connoisseur. I read one book a day....different genres over the months. Right now I am reading Dark mafia romances. But I also really like fantasy and books with magic. I did not see the end of your book coming. It was a such a surprise although I had a feeling about somethings. I don't want to be a spoiler. Can't wait for the next book. How are you liking Texas? Say hi to your husband and your little guy...miss seeing him. Take care and Congratulations!!!!...Linda F.
December 11, 2024
Crystal Iris is a great book for anyone who likes a good dose of magic, intrigue, and true love. It's a book that will linger in your mind long after you've finished. I recommend it to anyone looking for enchanting escape. Can't wait to the next one.
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