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Elusive Umbra #1
Of Nightmares & Fire
The darkness is eternal; the vast expanse of unexplainable umbra swallows me whole. It’s how they always start. The nightmares that have haunted me for as long as I can remember—they don’t relent. They chase me into the shadows of sleep, and when I’m awake, a new kind of nightmare lives.
I want nothing more than to run away from it all, but in a kingdom like Eathian, the nightmares lurk in every corner. When something I thought I would never feel sparks an ember of hope in my chest, I reconsider my path. I think I have a plan, but that same spark of hope also sparks doubt as I find that 𝘩𝘦 has another plan entirely.
Not all nightmares are what they seem.
Will the ember die of ash or burst aflame and burn everything in its wake?
I want nothing more than to run away from it all, but in a kingdom like Eathian, the nightmares lurk in every corner. When something I thought I would never feel sparks an ember of hope in my chest, I reconsider my path. I think I have a plan, but that same spark of hope also sparks doubt as I find that 𝘩𝘦 has another plan entirely.
Not all nightmares are what they seem.
Will the ember die of ash or burst aflame and burn everything in its wake?
ebook
First published September 4, 2025
About the author
Blake Gallows
8 books289 followersBlake Gallows is casting her shadows on the world one dark story at a time; writing dark romantasy and dark paranormal romance, you can ensure that the emotions will be high, the stakes higher, and spice hot enough to burn. While native to South Carolina, she now resides in the Pacific Northwest living the lavish life of a domestic goddess and caring for her energy leeches aka her three children, husband, and two Rottweilers. When not writing you can find her seeking out her next dose of dopamine via, caffeine, tattoos, hiking, or riding dirtbikes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 360 reviews
September 4, 2025
I just... I don't... I don't know what to say or think. This book has my emotions and mind in a whirlpool. The ending of this book is WILDDDD.
The build up between Astraea and Kyros is a tension filled slow burn that leaves you yearning for more. You can't help but fall in love with them both and hope they can finally find peace. This book is BEAUTIFUL, and I am sick to my stomach right now not knowing what is going to happen with that ending.
This is a must read, must buy, MUST EXPERIENCE! Ugh, my poor black heart. 🖤
The build up between Astraea and Kyros is a tension filled slow burn that leaves you yearning for more. You can't help but fall in love with them both and hope they can finally find peace. This book is BEAUTIFUL, and I am sick to my stomach right now not knowing what is going to happen with that ending.
This is a must read, must buy, MUST EXPERIENCE! Ugh, my poor black heart. 🖤
September 9, 2025
MINDBLOWN 🤯🤯🤯
This was my first book by this author and now I need to go back and read every book she has ever written. This book was amazing, grabbing my attention from the very first page and sucked me into this world that I did not want to leave. Of Nightmares & Fire is a dark fantasy romance with all the vibes you could want and so much more. Dark and delicious with so much tension and yearning you could feel it through the pages. The plot kept you hooked, the world building was amazing, the magic was unique, the tension was perfection, and you fall in love with the characters and let's not even get into the ending...I need the next one like yesterday.
What to Expect
🖤Sandman x Freddy Kruger inspired magic
🖤Dune Pirates
🖤Political Intrigue
🖤Mythical Creatures
🖤Witchy Elements
🖤Shadow Daddy
🖤Trials
🖤Forbidden love
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Arranged Marriage
🖤Touch her and ☠️
You absolutely need to read this one! Perfection! Blake Gallows please hurry and read book two because I need answers and I need more of this unique world and amazing characters. Do yourself a favor and read this one!
This was my first book by this author and now I need to go back and read every book she has ever written. This book was amazing, grabbing my attention from the very first page and sucked me into this world that I did not want to leave. Of Nightmares & Fire is a dark fantasy romance with all the vibes you could want and so much more. Dark and delicious with so much tension and yearning you could feel it through the pages. The plot kept you hooked, the world building was amazing, the magic was unique, the tension was perfection, and you fall in love with the characters and let's not even get into the ending...I need the next one like yesterday.
What to Expect
🖤Sandman x Freddy Kruger inspired magic
🖤Dune Pirates
🖤Political Intrigue
🖤Mythical Creatures
🖤Witchy Elements
🖤Shadow Daddy
🖤Trials
🖤Forbidden love
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Arranged Marriage
🖤Touch her and ☠️
You absolutely need to read this one! Perfection! Blake Gallows please hurry and read book two because I need answers and I need more of this unique world and amazing characters. Do yourself a favor and read this one!
September 7, 2026
I randomly saw a post on Instagram revealing who the narrators for the audiobook would be when it was released. When I saw that the King and Queen of audio were the narrators (Anthony Palmini and Jacci Prior), I marked my calendar, and I'm glad I did because it did NOT disappoint!
The audiobook is dual narration, and it goes without saying it's fantastic. But the story, I could not stop listening. At first, it reminded me of The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten, with a sprinkle of Leave Me Behind added in. (I LOVED both those books! Both 5* reads). And yes, this book has the same narrators as The Secrets of Jane, but I mean the vibe of the story is the same. An Inn, mercenary group..... but THEN, I was delightfully surprised when the plot went a completely different way!!!
At the end, my actual reaction was: "Wait... No wait... But.. Wait... Omg.... This author is a GENIUS how that was written, I didn't even realize.... Because I thought... Ahhhh!!!"
I highly recommend the audio version of this book! But ANY version is worth your time reading!
Note: At the time of this review, I believe the audiobook is only available on Audible. But I believe the author said eventually it would be available in other places as well, such as Spotify.
The audiobook is dual narration, and it goes without saying it's fantastic. But the story, I could not stop listening. At first, it reminded me of The Secrets of Jane: Forgotten, with a sprinkle of Leave Me Behind added in. (I LOVED both those books! Both 5* reads). And yes, this book has the same narrators as The Secrets of Jane, but I mean the vibe of the story is the same. An Inn, mercenary group..... but THEN, I was delightfully surprised when the plot went a completely different way!!!
At the end, my actual reaction was: "Wait... No wait... But.. Wait... Omg.... This author is a GENIUS how that was written, I didn't even realize.... Because I thought... Ahhhh!!!"
I highly recommend the audio version of this book! But ANY version is worth your time reading!
Note: At the time of this review, I believe the audiobook is only available on Audible. But I believe the author said eventually it would be available in other places as well, such as Spotify.
October 1, 2025
OH MY GOD. This book utterly consumed me. I read this in less than one day... I started after getting home from a work meeting, and now here I am writing this review at 4:30AM....
This was my first Blake Gallows book and I assure you, this will not be my last because my experience with this book has made her an immediate auto-buy author for me. I cannot wait to dive into her backlist!
Of Nightmares & Fire is a masterclass in developing a dark world that is so immersive and addictive, with characters that you are immediately captivated by and want to root for, that you just lose all sense of time while you're flying through the pages. Even after just 10% of the way into the book, you could not pry this book from my hands. And let me tell you, Blake can craft a villain that you just love to hate (and maybe want to throw your kindle at the wall whenever they're on page). Man... it's been a minute since I've truly seen red due to a fictional character.
This story is told in dual POV with perspectives from both the FMC and MMC which I absolutely LOVE in fantasy romances/romantasies. Astraea... oh goodness. I absolutely love her but she has been put through the wringer by her abusive and vile father- a man who stole the crown of a kingdom by force and has been meticulously plotting the trajectory of her life for his gain and using violent means to make sure she stays in line. I love the theme that constantly comes up throughout the book surrounding "choice" when it comes to Astraea. For someone who was forced to be a shell of herself by her father, I loved the moments we get to see her resolve when she "chooses herself", effectively throwing wrenches into her father's plans despite knowing she'd pay for the mistake later. I feel like in this story, these situations were carefully done as each moment served to strengthen the reader's understanding of Astraea's plight and character.
"If I'm going to pay the price, I may as well earn the prize" - she's an absolute legend.
Then we have our MMC Kyros... a possessive, "touch her x die" shadow daddy whose methodical and brooding demeanor just goes absolutely haywire when it comes to our FMC. I love their dynamic and all of their moments together! I was highlighting like crazy every time the two of them were on the page together! But gahhh I just know that the secrets remaining between them will come to a head in the next book... I can't wait to see the resolution and GET SOME ANSWERS!
"I told you, I will end anyone who aims harm at those I claim as mine" - #SWOON
The entire story was a wild ride and that ending was crazy! I can't wait for the next installment but it looks like I will have other works from Blake to tide me over in the meantime!
This story has so many elements to love including:
- Sandman/Freddy Kruger-inspired magic
- Trials (but the men are the ones competing!)
- Forbidden Love
- Political Intrigue
- Warring factions
- Mythical creatures
- Arranged marriage
- Touch her and die
- Who hurt you?
This was my first Blake Gallows book and I assure you, this will not be my last because my experience with this book has made her an immediate auto-buy author for me. I cannot wait to dive into her backlist!
Of Nightmares & Fire is a masterclass in developing a dark world that is so immersive and addictive, with characters that you are immediately captivated by and want to root for, that you just lose all sense of time while you're flying through the pages. Even after just 10% of the way into the book, you could not pry this book from my hands. And let me tell you, Blake can craft a villain that you just love to hate (and maybe want to throw your kindle at the wall whenever they're on page). Man... it's been a minute since I've truly seen red due to a fictional character.
This story is told in dual POV with perspectives from both the FMC and MMC which I absolutely LOVE in fantasy romances/romantasies. Astraea... oh goodness. I absolutely love her but she has been put through the wringer by her abusive and vile father- a man who stole the crown of a kingdom by force and has been meticulously plotting the trajectory of her life for his gain and using violent means to make sure she stays in line. I love the theme that constantly comes up throughout the book surrounding "choice" when it comes to Astraea. For someone who was forced to be a shell of herself by her father, I loved the moments we get to see her resolve when she "chooses herself", effectively throwing wrenches into her father's plans despite knowing she'd pay for the mistake later. I feel like in this story, these situations were carefully done as each moment served to strengthen the reader's understanding of Astraea's plight and character.
"If I'm going to pay the price, I may as well earn the prize" - she's an absolute legend.
Then we have our MMC Kyros... a possessive, "touch her x die" shadow daddy whose methodical and brooding demeanor just goes absolutely haywire when it comes to our FMC. I love their dynamic and all of their moments together! I was highlighting like crazy every time the two of them were on the page together! But gahhh I just know that the secrets remaining between them will come to a head in the next book... I can't wait to see the resolution and GET SOME ANSWERS!
"I told you, I will end anyone who aims harm at those I claim as mine" - #SWOON
The entire story was a wild ride and that ending was crazy! I can't wait for the next installment but it looks like I will have other works from Blake to tide me over in the meantime!
This story has so many elements to love including:
- Sandman/Freddy Kruger-inspired magic
- Trials (but the men are the ones competing!)
- Forbidden Love
- Political Intrigue
- Warring factions
- Mythical creatures
- Arranged marriage
- Touch her and die
- Who hurt you?
August 17, 2025
Blake never disappoints.
I was obsessed with the vibes of this book the moment I read chapter one at the end of MRR. The rest of the story is no different.
This is such a unique dark romantasy with a shadow daddy (ayeee) and a magic system that is unique.
We have a runaway princess. Trials to the death to win the princess’s hand. A grumpy, broody and sexy af MMC with a happy, go lucky and chipper twin brother.
I felt so bad for Astraea throughout the story. All she wants is to live a life out from under her father’s thumb, a life of freedom and void of death. She wants to right her father’s wrongs but she is haunted by these mysterious and realistic nightmares.
Her writing, poetic as ever with quotes making it easy for the reader to relate to.
The cliffhanger, as always, is brutal so please give me book two now 😊
I was obsessed with the vibes of this book the moment I read chapter one at the end of MRR. The rest of the story is no different.
This is such a unique dark romantasy with a shadow daddy (ayeee) and a magic system that is unique.
We have a runaway princess. Trials to the death to win the princess’s hand. A grumpy, broody and sexy af MMC with a happy, go lucky and chipper twin brother.
I felt so bad for Astraea throughout the story. All she wants is to live a life out from under her father’s thumb, a life of freedom and void of death. She wants to right her father’s wrongs but she is haunted by these mysterious and realistic nightmares.
Her writing, poetic as ever with quotes making it easy for the reader to relate to.
The cliffhanger, as always, is brutal so please give me book two now 😊
September 4, 2025
“Of Nightmares & Fire” is the first book in a new series by Blake Gallows, with a magic system inspired by The Sandman and Freddy Krueger. The story follows a young princess trapped in a nightmare who desperately wants to escape. Along her journey to freedom, she encounters a mysterious trio of travelers whose lives become intertwined with hers. The book is told from two POVs.
I had very high hopes for this one, but honestly—it didn’t deliver. I loved the first third of the book, but after that, it just went downhill. The strongest element here is definitely worldbuilding. It’s REALLY well done. The rest? Mixed feelings.
Sometimes I loved the writing style, especially the poetic, haunting passages—they were stunning. But other times, it just didn’t work for me at all.
At first, I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters, but the more I read, the more I disliked it. The MMC took advantage of the FMC’s naivety, hiding it behind big words about love, destiny, and purpose. I’ve never hated the “you’re mine” trope as much as I did here. I was prepared for the many trigger/content warnings in this book, but not for how toxic the MCs’ relationship would feel. If this is meant to be the start of a deeper character arc, it wasn’t well-executed—or maybe I just missed the message. But knowing what I know now, I would’ve skipped this book.
The beginning promised a fascinating morally-gray adventure about a 21-year-old woman discovering her inner strength and owning her power. What I got instead was the story of an abused, terrified girl who trusts too quickly, too easily, and ends up surrounded by people who immediately project greatness onto her while ignoring what’s truly going on inside her. I might excuse some of her choices by chalking them up to youth and naivety, but the rest of the characters? I couldn’t stand them.
And that’s the real tragedy here. The psychological depth could have elevated this story, but it was underdeveloped. Which is a shame, because the overall vibe was captivating. The descriptions of nightmares and dunes felt truly unique—I’ve never read anything quite like them. The darker atmosphere has huge potential, but if a book leans into the morally-black side of things, it needs to be crafted with precision. Here, it just fell flat.
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🌞 dune pirates
☠️ Sandman/Freddy Kruger inspired magick
🌞 forced proximity
☠️ political intrigue
🌞 mythical creatures
☠️ touch her and ☠️
🌞 morally grey/black world
☠️ long list of TW/CW
I had very high hopes for this one, but honestly—it didn’t deliver. I loved the first third of the book, but after that, it just went downhill. The strongest element here is definitely worldbuilding. It’s REALLY well done. The rest? Mixed feelings.
Sometimes I loved the writing style, especially the poetic, haunting passages—they were stunning. But other times, it just didn’t work for me at all.
At first, I enjoyed the dynamic between the main characters, but the more I read, the more I disliked it. The MMC took advantage of the FMC’s naivety, hiding it behind big words about love, destiny, and purpose. I’ve never hated the “you’re mine” trope as much as I did here. I was prepared for the many trigger/content warnings in this book, but not for how toxic the MCs’ relationship would feel. If this is meant to be the start of a deeper character arc, it wasn’t well-executed—or maybe I just missed the message. But knowing what I know now, I would’ve skipped this book.
The beginning promised a fascinating morally-gray adventure about a 21-year-old woman discovering her inner strength and owning her power. What I got instead was the story of an abused, terrified girl who trusts too quickly, too easily, and ends up surrounded by people who immediately project greatness onto her while ignoring what’s truly going on inside her. I might excuse some of her choices by chalking them up to youth and naivety, but the rest of the characters? I couldn’t stand them.
And that’s the real tragedy here. The psychological depth could have elevated this story, but it was underdeveloped. Which is a shame, because the overall vibe was captivating. The descriptions of nightmares and dunes felt truly unique—I’ve never read anything quite like them. The darker atmosphere has huge potential, but if a book leans into the morally-black side of things, it needs to be crafted with precision. Here, it just fell flat.
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🌞 dune pirates
☠️ Sandman/Freddy Kruger inspired magick
🌞 forced proximity
☠️ political intrigue
🌞 mythical creatures
☠️ touch her and ☠️
🌞 morally grey/black world
☠️ long list of TW/CW
September 17, 2025
I wanted to like this book so bad. The writing style in the first few chapters had me so close to DNFing. Nothing felt new or exciting to me and the only part where I was invested was like the last 20 pages yet we still didn’t get all the answers the whole book was leading up to. I’m disappointed to say the least.
September 7, 2025
“𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩—𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐞 𝐤𝐞𝐞𝐩 𝐡𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐞.”
I’ve read Blake’s writing before and absolutely loved it. So when the announcement came for this dark fantasy, I ran.
Adding another to my fantasy streak. This definitely has brilliant bones, tension with the FMC & MMC, shadow magick and a very interesting sandman-like premise.
I really liked the MMC and his brother. The two of them together are hilarious and truly represent IRL sibling banter/rivalry/tough love. I also love that there is a badass female as a fighter, rather than a poor maiden! Give me some more of that feminine feistiness 🙂↕️
The FMC is difficult to place for me. Whilst I know that we barely get to grasp her past and everything eluding to her, I hope we get to see her really come out of her shell.
Definitely intrigued to see how book two plays out, especially with that ending!
Thank you for the ebook Blake 🖤🖤
[ ✩ 3.5 ]
I’ve read Blake’s writing before and absolutely loved it. So when the announcement came for this dark fantasy, I ran.
Adding another to my fantasy streak. This definitely has brilliant bones, tension with the FMC & MMC, shadow magick and a very interesting sandman-like premise.
I really liked the MMC and his brother. The two of them together are hilarious and truly represent IRL sibling banter/rivalry/tough love. I also love that there is a badass female as a fighter, rather than a poor maiden! Give me some more of that feminine feistiness 🙂↕️
The FMC is difficult to place for me. Whilst I know that we barely get to grasp her past and everything eluding to her, I hope we get to see her really come out of her shell.
Definitely intrigued to see how book two plays out, especially with that ending!
Thank you for the ebook Blake 🖤🖤
[ ✩ 3.5 ]
October 20, 2025
This was absolutely fantastic even though many of my questions are never answered by the end. I was hooked. this is a great epic romantasy, its not too dark, the Freddy Krueger nightmare magic was there, the shadow daddy was a little unique and the heroine is layered in her struggles. I will definitely be continuing.
January 5, 2026
Of Nightmares & Fire by indie author Blake Gallows is book one in the Elusive Umbra duet. This dark fantasy romance is set in a kingdom where magic is forbidden and our FMC, the usurper king’s daughter, is plagued by nightmares that begin bleeding into the fabric of reality.
I love the idea of a Freddy Krueger meets The Sandman inspired magic system set in a dark macabre fantasy world with elements of horror woven through a slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance. The story itself was a lyrical and atmospheric vibe read. I was completely absorbed in the first third of the book but ultimately needed more emotional & psychological depth to justify the story’s pacing.
Book two in the Elusive Umbra duet is slated to be released in 2026. Fantasy romance fans of atmospheric dark/horror vibes, lyrical writing, enemies-to-lovers, brooding & mysterious MMCs, twin flames, secrets & betrayals and uncovering history that’s been rewritten by the victors should definitely check this out!
I love the idea of a Freddy Krueger meets The Sandman inspired magic system set in a dark macabre fantasy world with elements of horror woven through a slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance. The story itself was a lyrical and atmospheric vibe read. I was completely absorbed in the first third of the book but ultimately needed more emotional & psychological depth to justify the story’s pacing.
Book two in the Elusive Umbra duet is slated to be released in 2026. Fantasy romance fans of atmospheric dark/horror vibes, lyrical writing, enemies-to-lovers, brooding & mysterious MMCs, twin flames, secrets & betrayals and uncovering history that’s been rewritten by the victors should definitely check this out!
August 30, 2025
WHAT AN ENDING!!!! After spending the last two days reading this, the ending had me feeling enraged, stunned & breathless. The ending felt like EDGING! Sorry, for the reference but that's literally how I feel. I was built up to have the best climax & then ghosted while miss Blake Gallows laughs while saying "not yet". THANKS ALOT! lol.
Of Nightmares & Fire was otherworldly. This book took you to another place that you did not want to leave. I fell in love with every character & wasn't ready for the story to end.
Blake Gallows did an astounding job. Everything in the story made sense, everything was described well, all the pieces fell together in a beautiful way. I felt like I was taken on the adventure of a lifetime.
Of Nightmares & Fire was otherworldly. This book took you to another place that you did not want to leave. I fell in love with every character & wasn't ready for the story to end.
Blake Gallows did an astounding job. Everything in the story made sense, everything was described well, all the pieces fell together in a beautiful way. I felt like I was taken on the adventure of a lifetime.
August 17, 2025
I have been in a romantasy slump for quite some time now and this was definitely what I needed to help me start getting out of it! I really enjoyed this and can’t wait to see how the series progresses overall!
January 3, 2026
DNF 59%
September 2, 2025
Of Nightmares and Fire by Blake Gallows, the first book in the Elusive Umbra duet, is a dark fantasy romance that grips you from the first page and refuses to let go. Set in a richly imagined world where nightmares bleed into reality and magic is both a weapon and a curse, the story follows Astraea, the daughter of the ruthless king who took over the empire of Eathian, and Kyros, son of the erstwhile rightful king, who are caught in a web of political tension, ancient prophecy, and forbidden desire. It sets the stage for a saga that promises emotional depth, high stakes, and a love story forged in fire.
Reading this book felt like stepping into a dream I wasn’t sure I wanted to wake up from. The author builds a world whose atmosphere is thick with dread and longing. The kingdom of Eathian is layered with history, danger, and secrets, and every corner of it feels alive. I especially loved how the magic system was tied to dreams and fear; it added a psychological edge that made the stakes feel personal.
The romance was a slow burn in the best way. There’s a tension between the leads that simmers beneath every interaction, and when it finally ignites, it’s both cathartic and devastating. I’m a sucker for the “touch her and die” trope, and the author delivers it with nuance and emotional weight. The love story isn’t just about passion - it’s about survival, trust, and the terrifying vulnerability of being truly seen.
What surprised me most was how emotionally resonant the book became. Beneath the monsters and magic, there’s a story about trauma, identity, and reclaiming power. The author doesn’t offer easy answers, but she does seamlessly integrate hope in both the prose and the character's journey.
If you’re drawn to stories that are as lyrical as they are brutal, with characters who feel like they’ve clawed their way out of the dark, Of Nightmares and Fire is worth every page. And with that brutal cliffhanger and so many unanswered questions, I’m not just counting down the days until the sequel but also hoping for additional spin-offs in this world.
Reading this book felt like stepping into a dream I wasn’t sure I wanted to wake up from. The author builds a world whose atmosphere is thick with dread and longing. The kingdom of Eathian is layered with history, danger, and secrets, and every corner of it feels alive. I especially loved how the magic system was tied to dreams and fear; it added a psychological edge that made the stakes feel personal.
The romance was a slow burn in the best way. There’s a tension between the leads that simmers beneath every interaction, and when it finally ignites, it’s both cathartic and devastating. I’m a sucker for the “touch her and die” trope, and the author delivers it with nuance and emotional weight. The love story isn’t just about passion - it’s about survival, trust, and the terrifying vulnerability of being truly seen.
What surprised me most was how emotionally resonant the book became. Beneath the monsters and magic, there’s a story about trauma, identity, and reclaiming power. The author doesn’t offer easy answers, but she does seamlessly integrate hope in both the prose and the character's journey.
If you’re drawn to stories that are as lyrical as they are brutal, with characters who feel like they’ve clawed their way out of the dark, Of Nightmares and Fire is worth every page. And with that brutal cliffhanger and so many unanswered questions, I’m not just counting down the days until the sequel but also hoping for additional spin-offs in this world.
June 23, 2026
I think Romantasy fans that love a shadow daddy will really like this one. It follows your typical romantasy plot line full of all your favorite tropes with a very broody, possessive mmc.
The world that she has created and the magic system are unique. It feels like a mash up of Nightmare on Elm Steet and the Sandman. I found it very interesting.
While we do eventually get to explore the nightmares promised in the title I wish it had been sooner. I was missing the creepy, dark scary factor that I was expecting based off of the description for the majority of the book. Although I do have high hopes that the second book delivers on this aspect.
The writing style here is kind of jarring. It doesn't flow well and takes awhile to get used to, but eventually I did get to the point that I no longer noticed.
I am intrigued enough by the overall world to contine the series and see where she takes it.
2.5 ⭐️
The world that she has created and the magic system are unique. It feels like a mash up of Nightmare on Elm Steet and the Sandman. I found it very interesting.
While we do eventually get to explore the nightmares promised in the title I wish it had been sooner. I was missing the creepy, dark scary factor that I was expecting based off of the description for the majority of the book. Although I do have high hopes that the second book delivers on this aspect.
The writing style here is kind of jarring. It doesn't flow well and takes awhile to get used to, but eventually I did get to the point that I no longer noticed.
I am intrigued enough by the overall world to contine the series and see where she takes it.
2.5 ⭐️
September 10, 2025
🔥
🤗 This was just what I needed! I was hooked from the very beginning because this world and characters were some of my favs I’ve read in a while! It was the perfect amount of world building, dark magic, monsters, romance, and found family. There’s even some great humor! I immediately loved the FMC and the MMC! They’re the best. The romance was 🔥🙌😍The side characters are also seriously amazing. I’m obsessed with all of them. I loved how this story, the lore, and the secrets were all slowly revealed. The nightmares were truly terrifying. Ahhh I loved it! There is a cliffhanger and I’m SO excited for the next book 😍🖤
🤗 This was just what I needed! I was hooked from the very beginning because this world and characters were some of my favs I’ve read in a while! It was the perfect amount of world building, dark magic, monsters, romance, and found family. There’s even some great humor! I immediately loved the FMC and the MMC! They’re the best. The romance was 🔥🙌😍The side characters are also seriously amazing. I’m obsessed with all of them. I loved how this story, the lore, and the secrets were all slowly revealed. The nightmares were truly terrifying. Ahhh I loved it! There is a cliffhanger and I’m SO excited for the next book 😍🖤
August 28, 2025
Blake Gallows has done it again! Another 5 star read!!! I am so blessed to have been along the journey as a Beta reader and then ARC reader, and I get to call her my friend. This story has it all, an FMC who has been raised under then harsh rule of her father and wants nothing more than to just live life free of expectations. Kyros is the brooding and badass MMC. Then you have his brother Mavros and their friend Zinya who bring a bit of comedic relief. There are nightmarish monsters, magic, war and so much more in this epic romantasy and I cannot wait to have this on my shelf and to do a re-read!!! I could brag about this book for days but don’t want to spoil any of it. Do yourself a favor and read this book ⭐️
September 4, 2025
Of Nightmares & Fire pulled me in with its vivid world-building and dark, haunting atmosphere. Astraea’s strength in standing up to her abusive father made her a heroine worth rooting for, and I loved the protective edge Kyros brought, even if he fought it. Listen though, in a real life situation, I probably would have gone for the brother. 👀 I love a jokester with a dirty mouth. 🥵
Astraea’s friendship with Colette was another highlight, a refreshing bit of light in all the chaos. The story ends on a gnarly cliffhanger that left me eager (and a little frustrated) for the next book.
Overall, a gripping start to a series I’ll definitely keep reading!
❤️🔥
Astraea’s friendship with Colette was another highlight, a refreshing bit of light in all the chaos. The story ends on a gnarly cliffhanger that left me eager (and a little frustrated) for the next book.
Overall, a gripping start to a series I’ll definitely keep reading!
❤️🔥
September 13, 2026
Listened to the audiobook for this & it was a 10/10!!!! I ate this up! A dark romantasy is one of my absolute favorites & im so glad I finished this right before book 2 comes out! The ending?!?! Yup, I need to know what happens next. Kyros? Yeah he’s hot & he’s now on my boyfriend list 🤭
September 18, 2026
It was phenomenal. Truly could not stop reading it. Even when i had to sleep i refused to put it down. Almost finished it the same day i started reading it. Great book with an interesting plot and characters you want to know more about. The switching of perspectives gave insights that makes their relationship and the secrets they hold in it very intriguing. I cant wait to read book 2.
August 19, 2025
An amazing set up to this enchanting series. Blake has a created a new world of magick and politics that stem from the awakening of the FMC’s origin story. So many fun characters, unknowns occur, and so many questions left at the end. Kyros is the perfect shadow daddy and Astrea is enthralled by him!
Dune pirates, arranged marriage, and amazing cultural references that grappled me throughout the book and did not let go! Can’t wait for the sequel to see what’s next!
Dune pirates, arranged marriage, and amazing cultural references that grappled me throughout the book and did not let go! Can’t wait for the sequel to see what’s next!
August 25, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via the author)
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this! I loved the group that became became Astraea's found family and the grumpy x sunshine vibes of Mavros and Kyros lol. Touch her and die, slow burn, morally grey, and forced proximity? Yes please!
The fire in me was stifled as a child, but I am no child anymore. I am a woman, and I feel the ember wanting to blaze.
I also really enjoyed getting to see Astraea grow as a character as she got out and was able to make decisions for herself.
I had my suspicions based on little clues about how things may go but I did not expect the ending to unravel quite like that! Looking forward the next one.
Favorite quotes
“Sometimes the demons we keep hidden in the deepest parts of ourselves are the ones who can hurt us most when they finally come to the light, but ever so often, even nightmares aren’t all that they seem.”
“I have a feeling that this is just the beginning of things I realize I am willing to do for you.” I say honestly.
“What happens if we are both consumed by the fire?” She asks in a whisper.
“We burn the world—” I press my lips to hers in a chaste kiss, “together.”
You were a wildfire. Reckless and deadly, but like a moth to a flame, I was drawn to you.
4.25 stars
I really enjoyed this! I loved the group that became became Astraea's found family and the grumpy x sunshine vibes of Mavros and Kyros lol. Touch her and die, slow burn, morally grey, and forced proximity? Yes please!
The fire in me was stifled as a child, but I am no child anymore. I am a woman, and I feel the ember wanting to blaze.
I also really enjoyed getting to see Astraea grow as a character as she got out and was able to make decisions for herself.
I had my suspicions based on little clues about how things may go but I did not expect the ending to unravel quite like that! Looking forward the next one.
Favorite quotes
“Sometimes the demons we keep hidden in the deepest parts of ourselves are the ones who can hurt us most when they finally come to the light, but ever so often, even nightmares aren’t all that they seem.”
“I have a feeling that this is just the beginning of things I realize I am willing to do for you.” I say honestly.
“What happens if we are both consumed by the fire?” She asks in a whisper.
“We burn the world—” I press my lips to hers in a chaste kiss, “together.”
You were a wildfire. Reckless and deadly, but like a moth to a flame, I was drawn to you.
September 7, 2025
Of Nightmares and Fire was everything I hoped for—and more. Dark fantasy romance will forever hold my heart, and this book reminded me exactly why. I’m completely obsessed with the magic system, a chilling blend inspired by The Sandman and Freddy Krueger.
The story delivers one of my favorite setups: forced proximity and a deliciously drawn-out slow burn that blossoms into a true enemies-to-lovers romance. Astrea, heir to the throne, has lived a sheltered yet brutal life under her father’s control. When she finally makes her escape, her freedom is short-lived—captured and dragged back to the castle, she’s forced to witness deadly trials where noblemen from across the kingdoms will fight to the death for her hand.
But everything shifts when the mysterious twins who once saved her during her escape arrive at the castle. Their presence is dangerous, shrouded in secrets, and impossible to ignore.
What made this book so addictive was the balance: rich worldbuilding, political intrigue, high-stakes mystery, and a found family dynamic that gave me chills. The tension between Astrea and her enemies simmers until it finally ignites—and when it does, it burns in the best possible way.
I loved every second of this story. The characters, the twists, the atmosphere—everything had me hooked. Absolutely loved it, and I cannot wait for book two!
The story delivers one of my favorite setups: forced proximity and a deliciously drawn-out slow burn that blossoms into a true enemies-to-lovers romance. Astrea, heir to the throne, has lived a sheltered yet brutal life under her father’s control. When she finally makes her escape, her freedom is short-lived—captured and dragged back to the castle, she’s forced to witness deadly trials where noblemen from across the kingdoms will fight to the death for her hand.
But everything shifts when the mysterious twins who once saved her during her escape arrive at the castle. Their presence is dangerous, shrouded in secrets, and impossible to ignore.
What made this book so addictive was the balance: rich worldbuilding, political intrigue, high-stakes mystery, and a found family dynamic that gave me chills. The tension between Astrea and her enemies simmers until it finally ignites—and when it does, it burns in the best possible way.
I loved every second of this story. The characters, the twists, the atmosphere—everything had me hooked. Absolutely loved it, and I cannot wait for book two!
December 7, 2025
seemingly never ending.
This book started ok, an interesting, if common, plot and decent character and world building. However it is way, WAY too long. It honestly felt never ending. There were plenty of places where it could’ve ended and book 2 could’ve begun. There were passages of flowery descriptions, some of which made no sense, others were beautifully detailed. It often felt like there were two authors of completely different calibre.
There are lots of grammatical issues, particularly in sentence structures and a lack of commas that make some sentences difficult to read/understand the first time. Missing or incorrect words also make this a more challenging read. Chapter 9 is riddled with errors, almost every sentence has some issue.
The FMC, as expected, is naive to pretty much everything but yet at least tries to be prepared for her journey. Somehow though, this didn’t include packing any spare clothes, which is just ridiculous.
There’s so many tropes in this that I just don’t like, if I’d known about them before, I probably wouldn’t have read this book. “Make me forget/replace my bad memories” being my least favourite.
In the end, I actually called it quits at 92%. I had been reading this book for 4 or 5 days and kept putting it down because I was bored, and I normally read a book in a day, maybe two. Just really not my style.
This book started ok, an interesting, if common, plot and decent character and world building. However it is way, WAY too long. It honestly felt never ending. There were plenty of places where it could’ve ended and book 2 could’ve begun. There were passages of flowery descriptions, some of which made no sense, others were beautifully detailed. It often felt like there were two authors of completely different calibre.
There are lots of grammatical issues, particularly in sentence structures and a lack of commas that make some sentences difficult to read/understand the first time. Missing or incorrect words also make this a more challenging read. Chapter 9 is riddled with errors, almost every sentence has some issue.
The FMC, as expected, is naive to pretty much everything but yet at least tries to be prepared for her journey. Somehow though, this didn’t include packing any spare clothes, which is just ridiculous.
There’s so many tropes in this that I just don’t like, if I’d known about them before, I probably wouldn’t have read this book. “Make me forget/replace my bad memories” being my least favourite.
In the end, I actually called it quits at 92%. I had been reading this book for 4 or 5 days and kept putting it down because I was bored, and I normally read a book in a day, maybe two. Just really not my style.
August 19, 2026
Holy moly. 4.5 ⭐️
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook early (thank you Blake!!) and WOW!
I really didn’t know what to expect with Freddy Kruger/ sandman based magic but it blew my mind.
Think shadow daddy but can go into your dreams.
We’ve got royalty, stolen crowns, abusive POS fathers, trying to find herself FMC, lies and betrayal. Oppressing those with magic. It’s always been you kind of love.
The 0.5 lost was from some repetitiveness near the end that I’m not sure added the value that was intended (but didn’t detract from the reading vibe.)
I will be gnawing at my enclosure for book 2 this October for the finale in this duet!!
Audio- Jacci Prior and Anthony Palmini in dual narration HELLO! Insane job for both of them.
I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook early (thank you Blake!!) and WOW!
I really didn’t know what to expect with Freddy Kruger/ sandman based magic but it blew my mind.
Think shadow daddy but can go into your dreams.
We’ve got royalty, stolen crowns, abusive POS fathers, trying to find herself FMC, lies and betrayal. Oppressing those with magic. It’s always been you kind of love.
The 0.5 lost was from some repetitiveness near the end that I’m not sure added the value that was intended (but didn’t detract from the reading vibe.)
I will be gnawing at my enclosure for book 2 this October for the finale in this duet!!
Audio- Jacci Prior and Anthony Palmini in dual narration HELLO! Insane job for both of them.
September 20, 2025
This is an all new dark romantasy series.
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
🖤 Deadly Trials
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Political Intrigue
🖤 Found Family
I have been ARC reading for Blake since her very first book. Her writing just keeps getting better and better and Of Nightmares & Fire truly blew me away. This is probably my favorite book by her yet.
My heart just breaks for Astraea and the cruelty she is forced to endure by the hands of father. No matter what though she still cares for those around her. Our MMC Kyros is everything you want in a leading man. He is broody and always has a scowl on his face (Ps: he also has a scar on his face 🥵). I loved watching him try to work out is irrational pull/feelings towards Astraea. The way he broods anytime some touches her!!!!
Blake!!!! I can't wait for more!!!!
🆃🆁🅾🅿🅴🆂
🖤 Arranged Marriage
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
🖤 Deadly Trials
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Political Intrigue
🖤 Found Family
I have been ARC reading for Blake since her very first book. Her writing just keeps getting better and better and Of Nightmares & Fire truly blew me away. This is probably my favorite book by her yet.
My heart just breaks for Astraea and the cruelty she is forced to endure by the hands of father. No matter what though she still cares for those around her. Our MMC Kyros is everything you want in a leading man. He is broody and always has a scowl on his face (Ps: he also has a scar on his face 🥵). I loved watching him try to work out is irrational pull/feelings towards Astraea. The way he broods anytime some touches her!!!!
Blake!!!! I can't wait for more!!!!
January 25, 2026
what in the wattpad....
March 12, 2026
wattpad alpha ceo x tiny naïve weak girl.. dnf @48% i couldn’t force myself to read anymore
August 16, 2025
5/5 ✨
3/5 🌶️
This book had me trapped from start to finish. It had so many elements, all of them circling each other and creating a delicious kind of tension from the start that had me flipping the pages nonstop. Especially all the secrets, lies, and mystery surrounding Kyros and his crew. I was dying to know what he was hiding, because I knew there was more to the story than we were given, even with his POV chapters.
Blake relented enough to give us some emotional headway with Kyros and Astraea, but even then I was on edge, waiting to see what would happen when Astraea figured out his secrets. And just when you think things are starting to come together, she says “sorry, not sorry” and stomps all over your feelings with that cliffhanger. Did we get some information and more clues? Well, yes, but now I have to wait to see what’s happening in the next book. Suffice it to say, there’s next to nothing that will stop me from picking up book two as soon as I can.
Not only was the romance wonderful in this read, but there was also such a unique magic system that played a strong part in the plot, on top of the political chaos on both sides with Kyros and Astraea. The magic system definitely had those Freddy Krueger nightmare vibes, but the Sandman also comes to mind. Looking back, I realize the author actually had both of those things listed in the tropes, but I went in kind of blind after just reading the blurb. It ended up being a surprise I wouldn’t have missed if I’d checked the trope list first. Everything was so amazing and unique, and you could tell that it all had a specific purpose, whether you were privy to that reason or not. I just couldn’t get enough of it.
𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊 𝕷𝖎𝖘𝖙:
🏵️Sandman/Freddy Krueger inspired magic
🐦⬛Hidden Magic
🏵️Forbidden Love
🐦⬛Political Intrigue
🏵️Mythical Creatures
🐦⬛Dune Pirates
🏵️Touch her & 💀
🐦⬛Forced Proximity
🏵️Arranged Marriage
🐦⬛High Stakes Trials
🏵️Witchy Elements
🐦⬛Slow burn
3/5 🌶️
This book had me trapped from start to finish. It had so many elements, all of them circling each other and creating a delicious kind of tension from the start that had me flipping the pages nonstop. Especially all the secrets, lies, and mystery surrounding Kyros and his crew. I was dying to know what he was hiding, because I knew there was more to the story than we were given, even with his POV chapters.
Blake relented enough to give us some emotional headway with Kyros and Astraea, but even then I was on edge, waiting to see what would happen when Astraea figured out his secrets. And just when you think things are starting to come together, she says “sorry, not sorry” and stomps all over your feelings with that cliffhanger. Did we get some information and more clues? Well, yes, but now I have to wait to see what’s happening in the next book. Suffice it to say, there’s next to nothing that will stop me from picking up book two as soon as I can.
Not only was the romance wonderful in this read, but there was also such a unique magic system that played a strong part in the plot, on top of the political chaos on both sides with Kyros and Astraea. The magic system definitely had those Freddy Krueger nightmare vibes, but the Sandman also comes to mind. Looking back, I realize the author actually had both of those things listed in the tropes, but I went in kind of blind after just reading the blurb. It ended up being a surprise I wouldn’t have missed if I’d checked the trope list first. Everything was so amazing and unique, and you could tell that it all had a specific purpose, whether you were privy to that reason or not. I just couldn’t get enough of it.
𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊 𝕷𝖎𝖘𝖙:
🏵️Sandman/Freddy Krueger inspired magic
🐦⬛Hidden Magic
🏵️Forbidden Love
🐦⬛Political Intrigue
🏵️Mythical Creatures
🐦⬛Dune Pirates
🏵️Touch her & 💀
🐦⬛Forced Proximity
🏵️Arranged Marriage
🐦⬛High Stakes Trials
🏵️Witchy Elements
🐦⬛Slow burn
August 26, 2025
This book was SOOOO good. I was pulled in from the VERY first pages I don’t know how I could feel tension between two characters from their very first interaction but that happened in this book. The pull between the two of them was unbearable and the way they evolved throughout was just spectacular. This story follows a princess- Astraea as she is trying to escape her fate and prison imposed by her father only to be pulled into an elaborate scheme to overthrow the kingdom (unbeknownst to her) She is met by twin brothers, Kyros and Mavros along with their badass chick team member, Zinya. One thing after another goes awry and while the twins and Astraea try to figure out what to do, they all realize that nothing is as it seems and there are are
more factors in play with the whole scenario. No one is who they seem and it makes things complicated- not to mention the undeniable pull between Kyros and Astraea. There’s TONS is secret keeping, denial, stubbornness, mistrust and to an extent betrayal with this story and there is still SO much to unpack that I hope will be revealed in book two. Secret identities, nightmare manifestation, hidden magic, games and trials, political intrigue, unknown prophecies, fated mates? More lies, secrets and betrayals. I am here for ALL of it.
This story was so well done. I was instantly in love with all of the characters- Kyros was a broody morally grey grumpy character that was also the epitome of touch her and die in the most perfect way. Mavros the brother who fit that role in such a way that the story would not be the same without him. The charisma and the kindness was so much appreciated. Of course we needed a badass supporting female character and we got TWO in Zinya and Colette. Badass in very different ways but I loved them both. And Astraea. Talk about a bad deal. All decisions made for her or about her her whole life. Told to remain silent by EVERYONE. Will she be able to find enough strength to finally stand on her own and make her own choices? You gotta read to find out. This book is FULL of plot, world building, prophecies, familiars, SLOW burn, enemies to reluctant allies to enemies to lovers to enemies? One horse, one bed, hidden identity, hidden powers, found family- all the things and all done in a very tasteful unique way. The cliffhanger is a doozy too. I loved this book!
more factors in play with the whole scenario. No one is who they seem and it makes things complicated- not to mention the undeniable pull between Kyros and Astraea. There’s TONS is secret keeping, denial, stubbornness, mistrust and to an extent betrayal with this story and there is still SO much to unpack that I hope will be revealed in book two. Secret identities, nightmare manifestation, hidden magic, games and trials, political intrigue, unknown prophecies, fated mates? More lies, secrets and betrayals. I am here for ALL of it.
This story was so well done. I was instantly in love with all of the characters- Kyros was a broody morally grey grumpy character that was also the epitome of touch her and die in the most perfect way. Mavros the brother who fit that role in such a way that the story would not be the same without him. The charisma and the kindness was so much appreciated. Of course we needed a badass supporting female character and we got TWO in Zinya and Colette. Badass in very different ways but I loved them both. And Astraea. Talk about a bad deal. All decisions made for her or about her her whole life. Told to remain silent by EVERYONE. Will she be able to find enough strength to finally stand on her own and make her own choices? You gotta read to find out. This book is FULL of plot, world building, prophecies, familiars, SLOW burn, enemies to reluctant allies to enemies to lovers to enemies? One horse, one bed, hidden identity, hidden powers, found family- all the things and all done in a very tasteful unique way. The cliffhanger is a doozy too. I loved this book!
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