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The Empire of the Stars #3
Last of His Blood
They have survived the war, the devils, and each other. Now they face the long cold of winter…and the clamoring ghosts of a bloody legacy.
It began with a summer of devils.
No. It began with seven years of war, and a valley left in ruins after a century of violence.
Or perhaps even earlier, with the first life Remin took at thirteen years old, because he was determined to live when the Divine Emperor commanded he should die.
But as the ragged survivors of his outlying villages begin to arrive, Remin is forced to reckon with the cost of his own life, even as threats grow against the people he loves. And as the coils of Imperial intrigue tighten, a virulent fever sweeps through Tresingale. Among the first to fall: Remin himself.
It leaves his young wife Ophele to take command of a town under siege, testing her fragile strength against fever, fear, and worse foes that lurk unseen. Family secrets stretch beyond the grave, threatening to detonate everything they have, and a knife from the capital seeks the very heart of Tresingale.
Even for those who survive the winter, their lives will never be the same.
Last of His Blood is the third book in Empire of the Stars, a romantic epic fantasy of enduring love, dangerous secrets, and deathless loyalty. Begin the series with Traitor Son, and discover a love that could redeem an Empire.
It began with a summer of devils.
No. It began with seven years of war, and a valley left in ruins after a century of violence.
Or perhaps even earlier, with the first life Remin took at thirteen years old, because he was determined to live when the Divine Emperor commanded he should die.
But as the ragged survivors of his outlying villages begin to arrive, Remin is forced to reckon with the cost of his own life, even as threats grow against the people he loves. And as the coils of Imperial intrigue tighten, a virulent fever sweeps through Tresingale. Among the first to fall: Remin himself.
It leaves his young wife Ophele to take command of a town under siege, testing her fragile strength against fever, fear, and worse foes that lurk unseen. Family secrets stretch beyond the grave, threatening to detonate everything they have, and a knife from the capital seeks the very heart of Tresingale.
Even for those who survive the winter, their lives will never be the same.
Last of His Blood is the third book in Empire of the Stars, a romantic epic fantasy of enduring love, dangerous secrets, and deathless loyalty. Begin the series with Traitor Son, and discover a love that could redeem an Empire.
561 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
154 people are currently reading
709 people want to read
About the author
Melissa J. Cave
5 books134 followersMelissa Cave is a writer and a veteran who has spent most of her life traveling, first as a military brat and then on active duty. She has always been fascinated by new places, cultures, languages, and history, and there is no better place to indulge that interest than in fantasy writing. She currently lives in Virginia, where she is failing to grow strawberries for the third year running.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
November 4, 2025
*internal screaming* what was that ending?! What...What happened?! And how am I supposed to wait till May for the next book? 😩
This book was like coming home; I love this series and was thrilled to be back in the world of the Empire of the Stars. The world of The Empire of the Stars deepens! I loved all the new additions, and the deepening of the characters. Davi's story was especially moving.
I really loved the entire blessing of the fields. It was so passionate, raw, and emotional!
Honestly, I could read in this world forever, the characters really come to life and they are so dear to my heart. Melissa is an amazing writer, I'd be thrilled to read anything she wrote!
This book was like coming home; I love this series and was thrilled to be back in the world of the Empire of the Stars. The world of The Empire of the Stars deepens! I loved all the new additions, and the deepening of the characters. Davi's story was especially moving.
I really loved the entire blessing of the fields. It was so passionate, raw, and emotional!
Honestly, I could read in this world forever, the characters really come to life and they are so dear to my heart. Melissa is an amazing writer, I'd be thrilled to read anything she wrote!
November 17, 2025
Even though I had a long period between reading each book of the series, the moment I started I was completely immersed in the world as if I never left!😍 i seriously don’t know how the author does it. This book combines incredible character depth with lush and epic world building. Honestly? This series was one of the best well written works I’ve ever read. The worldbuilding, the character growth, the friendships, the romance… I could only describe it as the same feeling as reading Outlander. ❤️
The third book adds even more depth and layers to the story. If you want something MORE than just the usual Romantasy mainstream, this is it!! Put together the soul crushing romance of Outlander, with a historical medieval civilisation but make it an epic fantasy with monsters like The Witcher, and ton of political intrigue!
The third book adds even more depth and layers to the story. If you want something MORE than just the usual Romantasy mainstream, this is it!! Put together the soul crushing romance of Outlander, with a historical medieval civilisation but make it an epic fantasy with monsters like The Witcher, and ton of political intrigue!
October 15, 2025
Loved this so much, worst part about the book is that I am finished and have to wait for the next one...
Ophele and Rem prepare for Starfall, the capital is stiring and anticipates the duke and duchess of Andelin, we learn more about the emperor and also about the princess. Ophele and Rem have to overcome more hardships and learn to work together, to trust each other and be more honest. Love Opheles development and cant wait to see how much further she will go, but we also get insights into Rem and his fears.
I really think this series fills a niche I have not seen often, its not really sword and scorcery, so far also not really political intrigue (also not not and I imagine it might increase with further boos) and more of a "how do we build a new city, a new society, what does it take, what do we want the hierarchy to look like, what obstacles do we face" and I absolutely love that. Its not boring at all and there are so many great characters, all with their own agendas, their own struggles and its amazing how Cave manages to put all of that into each POV. Just from the tone of observation you can tell characters apart.
I have so many theories, so many breadcrumps that I try to follow. I cant wait for the next book but already know that not all of my questions will be answered
Ends on quite the cliffhanger.
Ophele and Rem prepare for Starfall, the capital is stiring and anticipates the duke and duchess of Andelin, we learn more about the emperor and also about the princess. Ophele and Rem have to overcome more hardships and learn to work together, to trust each other and be more honest. Love Opheles development and cant wait to see how much further she will go, but we also get insights into Rem and his fears.
I really think this series fills a niche I have not seen often, its not really sword and scorcery, so far also not really political intrigue (also not not and I imagine it might increase with further boos) and more of a "how do we build a new city, a new society, what does it take, what do we want the hierarchy to look like, what obstacles do we face" and I absolutely love that. Its not boring at all and there are so many great characters, all with their own agendas, their own struggles and its amazing how Cave manages to put all of that into each POV. Just from the tone of observation you can tell characters apart.
I have so many theories, so many breadcrumps that I try to follow. I cant wait for the next book but already know that not all of my questions will be answered
Ends on quite the cliffhanger.
September 24, 2025
STUNNING. I adore this series, and I am always so happy to come check in on Tresingale. It’s shaping up that every book is a season, both in weather and of change, and I am obsessed with the slooooow unfurling of so many simultaneous stories. The author is phenomenal at delivering so much authentic detail, powerful emotions, and balancing the happy moments with the devastating blows.
I looooved Remin’s fears and anxieties as a focal point of this book, his worrying and obsession with safety and the fights that come from the single-minded focus rooted in fear. It’s all superb: the emotions! The relationships! The fights! The grief and loss and struggles and reminders that all is not well in the world. AND STILL in book three we CONTINUE to get lush world building, a connection to every character big and small, and are on the edge of our seats with every nugget revealed that has been hiding in plain sight since the beginning. BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE: I can see the beginnings of new romantic pairings which just makes my little heart squeal with joy.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know our ‘enemy’ Bastin the Emperor and am so excited to read book 4 with what I assume will be an avalanche of twists and reveals. I am giddy with anticipation.
favorite quote :
Extra special thanks to the author and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to read this beautiful story early.
I looooved Remin’s fears and anxieties as a focal point of this book, his worrying and obsession with safety and the fights that come from the single-minded focus rooted in fear. It’s all superb: the emotions! The relationships! The fights! The grief and loss and struggles and reminders that all is not well in the world. AND STILL in book three we CONTINUE to get lush world building, a connection to every character big and small, and are on the edge of our seats with every nugget revealed that has been hiding in plain sight since the beginning. BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE: I can see the beginnings of new romantic pairings which just makes my little heart squeal with joy.
I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know our ‘enemy’ Bastin the Emperor and am so excited to read book 4 with what I assume will be an avalanche of twists and reveals. I am giddy with anticipation.
favorite quote :
Remin was mortal as anyone else. He could die. He could be afraid. He had been afraid, for so long.
Extra special thanks to the author and NetGalley for the ARC and the opportunity to read this beautiful story early.
November 7, 2025
MELISSA, YOU CAN'T LEAVE ME HANGING LIKE THAT I'M NOT OKAY!! How are we supposed to wait until May?!?!
No, but seriously, that ending has me shooketh. It changed everything. I can't stop thinking about this story, these characters, the places. It is my Roman Empire. I could go on and on about how amazing this series is but time would be better spent in reading it. So just trust me and move this to the top of your TBR.
I love the series synopsis at the start of each book. It's so refreshing to not have to wrack my brain to remember the key points. Incredibly thankful to the author for this ARC opportunity for my candid thoughts.
No, but seriously, that ending has me shooketh. It changed everything. I can't stop thinking about this story, these characters, the places. It is my Roman Empire. I could go on and on about how amazing this series is but time would be better spent in reading it. So just trust me and move this to the top of your TBR.
I love the series synopsis at the start of each book. It's so refreshing to not have to wrack my brain to remember the key points. Incredibly thankful to the author for this ARC opportunity for my candid thoughts.
November 1, 2025
I have been biting my nails to be able to write this review
I had the opportunity to be a beta reader for this book, and I cannot thank the author enough for allowing me this opportunity.
Right off the bat, I still can not get enough of Remin and Ophele's relationship and journey together. Ever since the first book, I have been rooting for them. This book had a lot of character growth for both of them. Ophele really stands up for herself in this book, even against Remin. Which is saying a lot when you look at their height difference. Throughout the book, we continue to see issues arise that strain their relationship. However, they both work through it and come out even stronger.
In this book, we also get to see so much growth that Tresingale goes through, and it's amazing. There are several new townsfolk who have arrived, each bringing their own specialty to the town. We even see Ophele open up to many of the folk and make some friends, and have her own groups come together to help one another.
In this book, I really enjoyed the role that Wren took on. He may have a small role in the book compared to the other characters, but he is very important. The special relationship that he forms with Ophele and all the comedic relief that he gives is great. Then you have Ophele lady in waiting, Lady Mionet Verr. She drives me up the wall with how she thinks and how she does things. I truly believe that she has an alternative motive against Ophele. The author has done a great job writing this character; it takes a lot for me to really hate a character and want them gone.
I could probably go on for a while about everything I liked about this book, but then that would take you away from actually reading it. I will, however, leave you with this. MICHE...MICHE....MICHE!!!!!!
Favorite quotes
"'Don’t be embarrassed that you don’t know foolish things,’ he told her.’Be proud of the things you do know.'" -Remin
"'I know what manners are, ’ he said. ‘They are the reason I can politely misunderstand what you said about EMi, for example, my lord.’ ‘You mean, they’re the reason you have to smile when I insult you to your face,’ Remin retorted, and then pulled up his scarf to muffle a cough."--Remin and Lady Verr
I had the opportunity to be a beta reader for this book, and I cannot thank the author enough for allowing me this opportunity.
Right off the bat, I still can not get enough of Remin and Ophele's relationship and journey together. Ever since the first book, I have been rooting for them. This book had a lot of character growth for both of them. Ophele really stands up for herself in this book, even against Remin. Which is saying a lot when you look at their height difference. Throughout the book, we continue to see issues arise that strain their relationship. However, they both work through it and come out even stronger.
In this book, we also get to see so much growth that Tresingale goes through, and it's amazing. There are several new townsfolk who have arrived, each bringing their own specialty to the town. We even see Ophele open up to many of the folk and make some friends, and have her own groups come together to help one another.
In this book, I really enjoyed the role that Wren took on. He may have a small role in the book compared to the other characters, but he is very important. The special relationship that he forms with Ophele and all the comedic relief that he gives is great. Then you have Ophele lady in waiting, Lady Mionet Verr. She drives me up the wall with how she thinks and how she does things. I truly believe that she has an alternative motive against Ophele. The author has done a great job writing this character; it takes a lot for me to really hate a character and want them gone.
I could probably go on for a while about everything I liked about this book, but then that would take you away from actually reading it. I will, however, leave you with this. MICHE...MICHE....MICHE!!!!!!
Favorite quotes
"'Don’t be embarrassed that you don’t know foolish things,’ he told her.’Be proud of the things you do know.'" -Remin
"'I know what manners are, ’ he said. ‘They are the reason I can politely misunderstand what you said about EMi, for example, my lord.’ ‘You mean, they’re the reason you have to smile when I insult you to your face,’ Remin retorted, and then pulled up his scarf to muffle a cough."--Remin and Lady Verr
October 18, 2025
How on Earth are we supposed to move on? 😮💨😶🌫️
This series is officially responsible for way too many late nights and an overheating iPad. 👀
Last of His Blood was my very first ARC ever, and honestly, the whole experience was surreal—from the moment I applied for it to the moment I finally opened it on my iPad.
Anyway, let me drop my two cents here...
😮💨 If you, like me, were hoping that book 3 would make things easier or resolve some of the tension —nope. It won’t. Let’s just get that out of the way.
Last of His Blood felt like a constant drumroll leading into battle—you can practically hear it building page after page, faster and heavier.
And yes, book 3 is tense. It feels like everyone is on the verge of completely losing it. I’m looking at you, Remin, you poor soul. 🥹😩
I’m just glad Ophele is finally standing her ground at some point and making you see some reason—which, given her past, is no small feat.
The whole process of preparing for the journey to the Empire is described so vividly. This book opens a door to a new world that just invites you to discover it in great great detail.
Did you ever wonder what would it feel like to live in year 800+ during times magic and nature were trying to sack humans? Well...now you know! You also truly understand what it would feel like to live in an old town, what sickness would be like, how you would prepare for harsh times and so on!
It’s during these moments of planning that the characters truly shine and we get bits and pieces of who is who and what makes them interesting.
But what I love even more is that you can’t fully hate any of them—or fully love them either.
Everyone is flawed. Everyone breaks in their own way. At some point, each one shows their weakness. And some characters who once seemed like mere background decorations? Yeah… they might be a lot more important than they appear. 👀
As for Remin—he’s growing more bitter with each passing day, and honestly, it’s so easy to understand why when the narrator spills his thoughts onto the pages like this:
“Couldn’t he have a few months of peace? It was hard enough to keep Ophele safe without her fighting him about it, and come spring he would be forced to take her to the capital like a lamb to slaughter, his lamb, his fucking heart laid out on an altar for the bastard Emperor.”
😳😳😳 We also get a few characters still playing the game, though we have no clue whose side they’re on!
Between the paranoia over the Emperor’s new interest and the delicate matter of... well, making babies 👀, this book definitely turns up the heat. There are some seriously scorching scenes here 😮💨.
At first, Remin’s determination to conceive seems purely selfish (since he’s the last of his bloodline). But then:
“He willed it to happen, praying wordlessly that his essence would take root there, so part of him would grow and be with her always.”
🥹🥹🥹
Again, Remin… you poor, poor soul. (Was I crying and screaming at my iPad at this point? Well… maybe? 😭)
But I digress…
I know I can’t pour everything into this review that makes this book a must-read, but I’ll end by pointing out the things that made it a 5-star rating:
🔖 The Game – The strategy, the manipulation, the way everything unfolds and completely completely takes you by surprise…
🕯️ The Breadcrumbs – They’re there. Oh, they’re definitely there. You’ll want to go back and reread the earlier books wondering, how did I miss that?!
💞 Their Love – It’s not perfect. Neither are our main characters. But they were loved as children—truly loved—and I think that foundation is what ultimately saves their relationship.
🙊 Miche. (If you read my other reviews you know what this character means to me...and this book...ah...I just don't know how to say it without giving major spoilers so...I'm gonna stop here.)
As I’ve said before: this series is going to be BIG. I’m writing it here now so I can come back later and say, Ha! Told you so!
At this point, it’s giving Game of Thrones vibes for me—political, surprising, sometimes tedious to get through but very very addictive.
I'm closing this now with a BIG fat THANK YOU to Melissa J. Cave for writing this and to #NetGalley for the ARC. 💀✨
#ARCReview #LastOfHisBlood #FantasyBooks #Bookstagram #BookTok #Romantasy #MoralGreyCharacters #EnemiesToLovers #BookCommunity #MelissaCave
This series is officially responsible for way too many late nights and an overheating iPad. 👀
Last of His Blood was my very first ARC ever, and honestly, the whole experience was surreal—from the moment I applied for it to the moment I finally opened it on my iPad.
Anyway, let me drop my two cents here...
😮💨 If you, like me, were hoping that book 3 would make things easier or resolve some of the tension —nope. It won’t. Let’s just get that out of the way.
Last of His Blood felt like a constant drumroll leading into battle—you can practically hear it building page after page, faster and heavier.
And yes, book 3 is tense. It feels like everyone is on the verge of completely losing it. I’m looking at you, Remin, you poor soul. 🥹😩
I’m just glad Ophele is finally standing her ground at some point and making you see some reason—which, given her past, is no small feat.
The whole process of preparing for the journey to the Empire is described so vividly. This book opens a door to a new world that just invites you to discover it in great great detail.
Did you ever wonder what would it feel like to live in year 800+ during times magic and nature were trying to sack humans? Well...now you know! You also truly understand what it would feel like to live in an old town, what sickness would be like, how you would prepare for harsh times and so on!
It’s during these moments of planning that the characters truly shine and we get bits and pieces of who is who and what makes them interesting.
But what I love even more is that you can’t fully hate any of them—or fully love them either.
Everyone is flawed. Everyone breaks in their own way. At some point, each one shows their weakness. And some characters who once seemed like mere background decorations? Yeah… they might be a lot more important than they appear. 👀
As for Remin—he’s growing more bitter with each passing day, and honestly, it’s so easy to understand why when the narrator spills his thoughts onto the pages like this:
“Couldn’t he have a few months of peace? It was hard enough to keep Ophele safe without her fighting him about it, and come spring he would be forced to take her to the capital like a lamb to slaughter, his lamb, his fucking heart laid out on an altar for the bastard Emperor.”
😳😳😳 We also get a few characters still playing the game, though we have no clue whose side they’re on!
Between the paranoia over the Emperor’s new interest and the delicate matter of... well, making babies 👀, this book definitely turns up the heat. There are some seriously scorching scenes here 😮💨.
At first, Remin’s determination to conceive seems purely selfish (since he’s the last of his bloodline). But then:
“He willed it to happen, praying wordlessly that his essence would take root there, so part of him would grow and be with her always.”
🥹🥹🥹
Again, Remin… you poor, poor soul. (Was I crying and screaming at my iPad at this point? Well… maybe? 😭)
But I digress…
I know I can’t pour everything into this review that makes this book a must-read, but I’ll end by pointing out the things that made it a 5-star rating:
🔖 The Game – The strategy, the manipulation, the way everything unfolds and completely completely takes you by surprise…
🕯️ The Breadcrumbs – They’re there. Oh, they’re definitely there. You’ll want to go back and reread the earlier books wondering, how did I miss that?!
💞 Their Love – It’s not perfect. Neither are our main characters. But they were loved as children—truly loved—and I think that foundation is what ultimately saves their relationship.
🙊 Miche. (If you read my other reviews you know what this character means to me...and this book...ah...I just don't know how to say it without giving major spoilers so...I'm gonna stop here.)
As I’ve said before: this series is going to be BIG. I’m writing it here now so I can come back later and say, Ha! Told you so!
At this point, it’s giving Game of Thrones vibes for me—political, surprising, sometimes tedious to get through but very very addictive.
I'm closing this now with a BIG fat THANK YOU to Melissa J. Cave for writing this and to #NetGalley for the ARC. 💀✨
#ARCReview #LastOfHisBlood #FantasyBooks #Bookstagram #BookTok #Romantasy #MoralGreyCharacters #EnemiesToLovers #BookCommunity #MelissaCave
November 2, 2025
Last of His Blood has cemented The Empire of the Stars as one of the best epic fantasy series I've ever read, and I will follow Melissa J Cave and her writing to the ends of the earth. Melissa weaves amazing world-building, political intrigue, deep character development, well-developed romance, and major plot twists into the tapestry of a story that I could not put down.
You know that infamous scene in Game of Thrones, Season 6, Episode 10? The one with a certain piano score and a very tense series of events that has the audience crawling out of their skin? Yeah, that was the same experience I had reading the last 1/3 of Last of His Blood, and I feel like I'll need to bill Melissa for my hospital costs when the heart attack catches up to me.
This book is a masterclass in building tension and intrigue, and the storytelling was off the charts. Last of His Blood leans heavily into character paranoia in such a way that the audience has no idea what's coming; I was questioning the motive of almost every character throughout. Honestly, I still am after that incredible ending. There was a creeping sense of dread throughout the whole book that Melissa laces wonderfully into the day to day minutiae of winter in Tresingale. It's so clear that the story is building to something epic, and this book serves to set that up beautifully.
Melissa has crafted her characters in such a way that every single one is so layered and interesting that it's a challenge not to like them. It's part of what made this book so hard (and wonderful) to read; either I was terrified for several of our main characters, or devastated that I couldn't trust other characters. Remin, my poor guy. This was such a rough book for him, yet we get so much more insight into what makes him him. This book is a major step for Ophele, too; we see her change and grow in so many wonderful ways and she's rapidly becoming one of my favorite characters ever. I don't want to say anything about any other characters to avoid spoilers, but suffice to say, every single one of them was interesting and nuanced in their own way in this book.
I have been curled up in a metaphorical (and occasionally literal) ball since binging Last of His Blood in about 48 hours, and I won't recover until May 1st, 2026. Melissa, please keep writing forever (and feel free to make the next books 1000 pages long).
You know that infamous scene in Game of Thrones, Season 6, Episode 10? The one with a certain piano score and a very tense series of events that has the audience crawling out of their skin? Yeah, that was the same experience I had reading the last 1/3 of Last of His Blood, and I feel like I'll need to bill Melissa for my hospital costs when the heart attack catches up to me.
This book is a masterclass in building tension and intrigue, and the storytelling was off the charts. Last of His Blood leans heavily into character paranoia in such a way that the audience has no idea what's coming; I was questioning the motive of almost every character throughout. Honestly, I still am after that incredible ending. There was a creeping sense of dread throughout the whole book that Melissa laces wonderfully into the day to day minutiae of winter in Tresingale. It's so clear that the story is building to something epic, and this book serves to set that up beautifully.
Melissa has crafted her characters in such a way that every single one is so layered and interesting that it's a challenge not to like them. It's part of what made this book so hard (and wonderful) to read; either I was terrified for several of our main characters, or devastated that I couldn't trust other characters. Remin, my poor guy. This was such a rough book for him, yet we get so much more insight into what makes him him. This book is a major step for Ophele, too; we see her change and grow in so many wonderful ways and she's rapidly becoming one of my favorite characters ever. I don't want to say anything about any other characters to avoid spoilers, but suffice to say, every single one of them was interesting and nuanced in their own way in this book.
I have been curled up in a metaphorical (and occasionally literal) ball since binging Last of His Blood in about 48 hours, and I won't recover until May 1st, 2026. Melissa, please keep writing forever (and feel free to make the next books 1000 pages long).
October 21, 2025
Wow!! I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book a few weeks ago...I finished it in one sitting (which says a lot because Melissa writes long books!). I discovered this series a few months ago and it became my favorite read of 2025. This next installment, "Last of His Blood" picks up where "Stardust Child" leaves off.
This book is the best book yet. Melissa left some breadcrumbs in the first two books for two of the reveals in this book. I re-read the first two books after the ARC and I can't believe that I missed one of the twists. One of the twists I never saw coming (I literally GASPED when this happened) and I am absolutely impatient for the fourth book to see what happens to REDACTED.
I could not put this book down. As a voracious reader, I've been really bored recently with a lot of fantasy books. Melissa Cave offers a fresh new world and story. The richness of the story (i.e., how Andelin is described) is unparalleled. Melissa doesn't pull punches and this book with have you crying, but still leaving with hope that Remin and Ophele (and all the knights and other beloved side characters) will have their happy endings.
I still have so many questions - what is the emperor's goal? What role will Ophele's sister play? Who is the second traitor that arrived in Andelin (we find out one in this book)? What is Lady Verr's endgame? What will happen in the capital? GAH. I'm so thankful that Melissa wrote the series already and releasing it in relatively short increments. The countdown to "A Congress of Roses" (book 4) in May 2026 begins!!!
This book is the best book yet. Melissa left some breadcrumbs in the first two books for two of the reveals in this book. I re-read the first two books after the ARC and I can't believe that I missed one of the twists. One of the twists I never saw coming (I literally GASPED when this happened) and I am absolutely impatient for the fourth book to see what happens to REDACTED.
I could not put this book down. As a voracious reader, I've been really bored recently with a lot of fantasy books. Melissa Cave offers a fresh new world and story. The richness of the story (i.e., how Andelin is described) is unparalleled. Melissa doesn't pull punches and this book with have you crying, but still leaving with hope that Remin and Ophele (and all the knights and other beloved side characters) will have their happy endings.
I still have so many questions - what is the emperor's goal? What role will Ophele's sister play? Who is the second traitor that arrived in Andelin (we find out one in this book)? What is Lady Verr's endgame? What will happen in the capital? GAH. I'm so thankful that Melissa wrote the series already and releasing it in relatively short increments. The countdown to "A Congress of Roses" (book 4) in May 2026 begins!!!
November 4, 2025
WHAT????? I refuse to accept that ending. I had to read it 3 times just to comprehend what was happening. The next book can’t come soon enough 😭😭😭
I cannot explain how much I love this series, it’s one of the best fantasy series I’ve ever read in my life. This book continues the story from the previous one, and it does not disappoint.
We have Ophele trying to juggle hundreds of lessons about royal duties while also managing everything happening in the city. My girl has GROWN. She’s a completely different person from the first book. I love how she just keeps getting better and better, and reading about her journey of finding herself as a duchess was incredible. I especially loved seeing her take on leadership roles during tough times, it really showed her strength and resilience.
Remin… oh my poor guy. He’s drowning in anxiety, and I felt so bad for him throughout this book, everything he worries about, everything he carries on his shoulders. And of course, the most important thing to him is Ophele. His dedication to her is unreal.
Mionet is finally opening up, and I’m so excited to see more of her, especially once she gets to the capital. Azelma and Wen were absolute treasures, healing my heart with how deeply they love and care for both Ophele and Remin.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC of this book!
I cannot explain how much I love this series, it’s one of the best fantasy series I’ve ever read in my life. This book continues the story from the previous one, and it does not disappoint.
We have Ophele trying to juggle hundreds of lessons about royal duties while also managing everything happening in the city. My girl has GROWN. She’s a completely different person from the first book. I love how she just keeps getting better and better, and reading about her journey of finding herself as a duchess was incredible. I especially loved seeing her take on leadership roles during tough times, it really showed her strength and resilience.
Remin… oh my poor guy. He’s drowning in anxiety, and I felt so bad for him throughout this book, everything he worries about, everything he carries on his shoulders. And of course, the most important thing to him is Ophele. His dedication to her is unreal.
Mionet is finally opening up, and I’m so excited to see more of her, especially once she gets to the capital. Azelma and Wen were absolute treasures, healing my heart with how deeply they love and care for both Ophele and Remin.
Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with an ARC of this book!
October 22, 2025
I was absolutely thrilled to receive an ARC directly from Melissa Cave. Many thanks because this series is one of my favourites and every time I finish an installment (in as close to a single sitting as it gets), I am desperate for the next one.
So many longer series start amazing and then fall off part way and break my heart. So far, that is absolutely not happening to this series! The twist at the end was an actual surprise which is rare enough in the fantasy genre full of beloved tropes. I cannot wait to hear what happens next.
Melissa Cave's writing style is so flowing and classic, it's a joy to read and feels right in my brain. There is none of that overly modern casual tone I increasingly see in modern fantasy, which I cannot stand. I am always shocked that she doesn't have a significant published catalogue because the writing and development are so polished (or they seem so to me).
So many longer series start amazing and then fall off part way and break my heart. So far, that is absolutely not happening to this series! The twist at the end was an actual surprise which is rare enough in the fantasy genre full of beloved tropes. I cannot wait to hear what happens next.
Melissa Cave's writing style is so flowing and classic, it's a joy to read and feels right in my brain. There is none of that overly modern casual tone I increasingly see in modern fantasy, which I cannot stand. I am always shocked that she doesn't have a significant published catalogue because the writing and development are so polished (or they seem so to me).
October 31, 2025
Last of His Blood is book three of the Empire of the Stars and I was so thrilled to return again to a world that has been bequeathed to a romantic fantasy of epic proportions.
The path fate has set for Remin and Ophele has been arduous, filled with danger, treachery, Imperial intrigue, secrets, and hidden enemies who will not destroy their newfound love for each other but will continue to remain a plague as they move forward with the building of a home for their people and themselves in the Andelin Valley. All lovers of the written word will be enthralled by the poetic writing that has remained just as mesmerizing as the first page of the first book, and while Remin struggles with his personal fears over the safety of his wife Ophele sickness finds its way to Tresingale and it is Ophele who must take charge when Remin falls ill.
Winter has come in this wonderfully imagined world, and its story will hold you riveted and captivated by the telling as it reaches a climatic cliffhanger ending that demands the next book now!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The path fate has set for Remin and Ophele has been arduous, filled with danger, treachery, Imperial intrigue, secrets, and hidden enemies who will not destroy their newfound love for each other but will continue to remain a plague as they move forward with the building of a home for their people and themselves in the Andelin Valley. All lovers of the written word will be enthralled by the poetic writing that has remained just as mesmerizing as the first page of the first book, and while Remin struggles with his personal fears over the safety of his wife Ophele sickness finds its way to Tresingale and it is Ophele who must take charge when Remin falls ill.
Winter has come in this wonderfully imagined world, and its story will hold you riveted and captivated by the telling as it reaches a climatic cliffhanger ending that demands the next book now!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2025
That CLIFFHANGER!!!
OMG! I’m actually dying to know what happens. But I have to wait, I think? I need to double check the release date of the next book.
But okay, so note to self - there’s still so many lulls, I was bored so many times. But the good parts are really good! The bad parts were so superfluous. I doubt this series will go on a reread shelf for me. But it was definitely worth reading. ☺️
I think the world building is phenomenal, the character development is gradual and rewarding, and the story itself can really be fun to get lost in. I guess I just prefer a different sort of polish for those last two stars. But let’s just call that a me problem and move on to the next book in the series!
OMG! I’m actually dying to know what happens. But I have to wait, I think? I need to double check the release date of the next book.
But okay, so note to self - there’s still so many lulls, I was bored so many times. But the good parts are really good! The bad parts were so superfluous. I doubt this series will go on a reread shelf for me. But it was definitely worth reading. ☺️
I think the world building is phenomenal, the character development is gradual and rewarding, and the story itself can really be fun to get lost in. I guess I just prefer a different sort of polish for those last two stars. But let’s just call that a me problem and move on to the next book in the series!
October 22, 2025
This series has quickly become one of my favourites, and that’s saying a lot because I haven’t added a new favourite since Empire of Storms! Last of His Blood continues right where the second book left off, and it has that same relaxing, low-stakes feeling that I loved about the first two books. Even though there are still things going on in the story, it never feels stressful or over the top. It’s just a really calming, cozy fantasy that’s still interesting the whole way through. So easy to get through, I finished the first two books in 24 hours (and have gone back several times to reread my favourite parts).
I really love Remin and Ophele as a pair. They’re both strong but in completely different ways, and I like that Ophele isn’t the typical sword-fighting female lead you see in a lot of books. She’s intelligent and uses her strengths to take care of Remin, his knights, and the people of Tresingale. It’s nice to see that not every female main character has to be a masterclass swordswoman to be strong and capable. The side characters are also very well fleshed out, and I'm very invested in where their story lines go. They have very detailed back stories, and it's very interesting to see how they all ended up in Remin's army. I also really loved the building of the town. It's so fascinating to see all of this stuff happen that you wouldn't even think about, and it makes you realize how much planning and work goes into building our cities.
This series is an amazing read, and I can't recommend it enough. I've been sending it to all my friends. Can't wait for the next book to come out!! Brutal cliffhanger!
I really love Remin and Ophele as a pair. They’re both strong but in completely different ways, and I like that Ophele isn’t the typical sword-fighting female lead you see in a lot of books. She’s intelligent and uses her strengths to take care of Remin, his knights, and the people of Tresingale. It’s nice to see that not every female main character has to be a masterclass swordswoman to be strong and capable. The side characters are also very well fleshed out, and I'm very invested in where their story lines go. They have very detailed back stories, and it's very interesting to see how they all ended up in Remin's army. I also really loved the building of the town. It's so fascinating to see all of this stuff happen that you wouldn't even think about, and it makes you realize how much planning and work goes into building our cities.
This series is an amazing read, and I can't recommend it enough. I've been sending it to all my friends. Can't wait for the next book to come out!! Brutal cliffhanger!
September 23, 2025
Received my first ARC ever as a reader with this book (yippee!), and though I must admit this book wasn’t my favorite compared to the first two, the ending certainly changed my mind! So much to think about, I almost want to reread the first two books again to find any hidden clues!
Great series for someone looking for a medieval fantasy involving monsters, secrets, spicy romance, and a FMC that continues to bloom with each book. I am very excited for the next one. Thank you for the ARC!
Great series for someone looking for a medieval fantasy involving monsters, secrets, spicy romance, and a FMC that continues to bloom with each book. I am very excited for the next one. Thank you for the ARC!
October 14, 2025
[Full review to come] The next installment in my favourite fantasy series is BACK and as incredible as ever! Everyone should be reading this, for I haven't adored a world as much as Melissa Cave's since Tolkien.
I'll never stop talking about how incredible Melissa J. Cave's work is. The worldbuilding is flawless, the descriptions astoundingly stunning and she has this amazing way of adding personality to characters both old and new in such an amusing way like "while Lady Verr did not ever utter the words peasant or philistine or mannerless lout, she could communicate a great deal with her eyebrows."
Nothing prepared me for the ending of this one, you have been warned.
Incredibly, this was not a problem he had anticipated, when he married Ophele. Back then, he had only been concerned for himself: *his* safety, *his* heirs, *his* line, the burden of ancestors that stood behind him, counting on him to survive for their sake. He feared death more than he feared anything else. Not for himself. Death meant the extinction of his whole family, forever. Ultimate victory for the Emperor. A complete and utter defeat that could never be undone.
But then he had come to love Ophele, and discovered whole new realms of terror.
I'll never stop talking about how incredible Melissa J. Cave's work is. The worldbuilding is flawless, the descriptions astoundingly stunning and she has this amazing way of adding personality to characters both old and new in such an amusing way like "while Lady Verr did not ever utter the words peasant or philistine or mannerless lout, she could communicate a great deal with her eyebrows."
Nothing prepared me for the ending of this one, you have been warned.
September 19, 2025
Wow. Just WOW. I raced through "Traitor Son". It was great. The next day I dove right into "Stardust Child". It was better. I then, for the first time in my life, signed up for the ARC of "Last of His Blood", received it 17 September, and stayed up all night reading all 538 pages. I haven't been this excited by a new author since Diana Gabaldon. The series just keeps getting better and better. I'm recommending it to everyone I know and even bought "Traitor Son" in paperback for 2 friends who won't do Kindle. I’ve ordered the hardbacks, can’t wait for Tantor Audio to release the audiobooks, and will be first in line for any future special editions. I am already champing at the bit to read the 4th book, due in 2026.
October 16, 2025
Review to come close to release date (aka I need time to recover from WHAT DID I JUST READ?!)
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I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review and I can’t thank Melissa enough for the opportunity.
Let’s start saying that I struggled to write a coherent review because while reading all my brain would convey was: NICE NICE MORE MORE.
So, do not ask me to choose between a character, a scene or a dialogue, I’d rather jump outside my window. I loved EVERYTHING, which is pretty rare for me.
I always get a bit shocked when I remember that this is Melissa’s first series. I’m not saying it is 100% perfection (maybe 97% + 1% only for Justenin?) but it’s unusual to find a series by a new author so well structured.
For example, in a series you often find an installment that suffer from the so-called middle book syndrome: nothing much happens, it’s just to forward the story and build up the grand finale.
I'm very happy to say that Last of His Blood didn't contract the disease! We get to witness a lot of little things (and one big, if we consider that it involves almost everyone in Tresingale) happening at the same time and/or consequently.
I especially love that this book starts right where the previous one ended. Winter is approaching and the devils have retreated to a kind of hibernation (which doesn’t bode well, at all).
The pacing is indeed more calm, more “peaceful” in terms of fighting men and monsters, but if words could cut I’d say this book has blood in it.
I believe that it’s important to mention once again that this is not just a romance book.
Remin and Ophele might be the main characters, but they’re literally surrounded by a community that shifts the attention from their love relationship to questions like “What do we want the fundamental pillars of Tresingale to be?” “How are we gonna treat those who want to live and prosper here?”
So, the focus is more on surviving the harsh season in a remote region of the world, understanding the political intrigues and alliances constantly changing in the capital, getting familiar with cultural elements such as festivities and religious rites.
The cozy element I mentioned in my first review still stands, despite the anxiety some events made me experience.
Ophele and Remin have a happy and established marriage but they’re still children and they’ve got so much to learn and, most importantly, to overcome.
This could seem a lesser detail but I found particularly interesting the choice to talk about Ophele’s period and what it represents for both her and Rrmin. It’s so rarely mentioned even from female writers, despite being such a big part of being a woman. (Unless it’s about vampires. There you have a high probability to run in it, a sort of period kink.)
In terms of characterization, Last of His Blood continues to deepen the character's development through witty dialogues, surprising revelations and true-to-life situations.
If the first two focused mainly on Ophele, in this one our heart breaks for Remin. He’s a big hairy mess. He’s 45% anxiety, 45% grippling fears and 10% unconditional love for Ophele.
We get glimpses of the choices he had to make during the war and the consequences of said choices, for which I doubt he’ll ever forgive himself.
A particular interaction between him and Huber hit me like a kick in the stomach.
And he doesn’t get the time to elaborate all this because his rank of Duke still requires him to dispose of others like pawns.
Well, this is all I can say about Remin without a spoiler.
Finally that scoundrel of Sir Miche gets back and his POV’s are always super interesting.
(Am I drunk or I’m glimpsing a kind of triangle between Lady Verr, Sir Miche and Sir Justenin?)
I’m still totally in love with Sir Justenin. His satisfaction in being Ophele’s tutor is just so damn adorable.
While I still don’t trust Lady Verr, I must admit that she has some of the best lines in the books. Her eloquence through gestures or expressions cracked me up.
I hope that getting back to Segoil after being all this time beside Ophele and the Knights of the Brede will make her see it in a different light.
I read this series with a friend who prefers standalones and duologies, and I’m the polar opposite: the longest the series the better for my greedy little racoon hands.
So you can easily imagine my friend fainting while I danced a happy jiggle when Melissa announced in her newsletter that the first arc of the series is FIVE books with at least ONE side story and a follow-up TRILOGY.
Thank you Melissa, it was Christmas in October for me.
Can’t wait to get back home with A Congress of Roses.
-----------
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review and I can’t thank Melissa enough for the opportunity.
Let’s start saying that I struggled to write a coherent review because while reading all my brain would convey was: NICE NICE MORE MORE.
So, do not ask me to choose between a character, a scene or a dialogue, I’d rather jump outside my window. I loved EVERYTHING, which is pretty rare for me.
I always get a bit shocked when I remember that this is Melissa’s first series. I’m not saying it is 100% perfection (maybe 97% + 1% only for Justenin?) but it’s unusual to find a series by a new author so well structured.
For example, in a series you often find an installment that suffer from the so-called middle book syndrome: nothing much happens, it’s just to forward the story and build up the grand finale.
I'm very happy to say that Last of His Blood didn't contract the disease! We get to witness a lot of little things (and one big, if we consider that it involves almost everyone in Tresingale) happening at the same time and/or consequently.
I especially love that this book starts right where the previous one ended. Winter is approaching and the devils have retreated to a kind of hibernation (which doesn’t bode well, at all).
The pacing is indeed more calm, more “peaceful” in terms of fighting men and monsters, but if words could cut I’d say this book has blood in it.
I believe that it’s important to mention once again that this is not just a romance book.
Remin and Ophele might be the main characters, but they’re literally surrounded by a community that shifts the attention from their love relationship to questions like “What do we want the fundamental pillars of Tresingale to be?” “How are we gonna treat those who want to live and prosper here?”
So, the focus is more on surviving the harsh season in a remote region of the world, understanding the political intrigues and alliances constantly changing in the capital, getting familiar with cultural elements such as festivities and religious rites.
The cozy element I mentioned in my first review still stands, despite the anxiety some events made me experience.
Ophele and Remin have a happy and established marriage but they’re still children and they’ve got so much to learn and, most importantly, to overcome.
This could seem a lesser detail but I found particularly interesting the choice to talk about Ophele’s period and what it represents for both her and Rrmin. It’s so rarely mentioned even from female writers, despite being such a big part of being a woman. (Unless it’s about vampires. There you have a high probability to run in it, a sort of period kink.)
In terms of characterization, Last of His Blood continues to deepen the character's development through witty dialogues, surprising revelations and true-to-life situations.
If the first two focused mainly on Ophele, in this one our heart breaks for Remin. He’s a big hairy mess. He’s 45% anxiety, 45% grippling fears and 10% unconditional love for Ophele.
We get glimpses of the choices he had to make during the war and the consequences of said choices, for which I doubt he’ll ever forgive himself.
A particular interaction between him and Huber hit me like a kick in the stomach.
And he doesn’t get the time to elaborate all this because his rank of Duke still requires him to dispose of others like pawns.
Well, this is all I can say about Remin without a spoiler.
Finally that scoundrel of Sir Miche gets back and his POV’s are always super interesting.
(Am I drunk or I’m glimpsing a kind of triangle between Lady Verr, Sir Miche and Sir Justenin?)
I’m still totally in love with Sir Justenin. His satisfaction in being Ophele’s tutor is just so damn adorable.
While I still don’t trust Lady Verr, I must admit that she has some of the best lines in the books. Her eloquence through gestures or expressions cracked me up.
I hope that getting back to Segoil after being all this time beside Ophele and the Knights of the Brede will make her see it in a different light.
I read this series with a friend who prefers standalones and duologies, and I’m the polar opposite: the longest the series the better for my greedy little racoon hands.
So you can easily imagine my friend fainting while I danced a happy jiggle when Melissa announced in her newsletter that the first arc of the series is FIVE books with at least ONE side story and a follow-up TRILOGY.
Thank you Melissa, it was Christmas in October for me.
Can’t wait to get back home with A Congress of Roses.
November 5, 2025
I’m so happy to be returning to the world of Tresingale in this third installment of Empire of Stars! It’s a smooth continuation from where we last left off in Stardust Daughter and it was stunning. My expectations were blown out of the park again and I remember all over again why I love Melissa J. Cave’s writing and this world she created.
Melissa just has a way of immersing the reader so deeply into her story. I loved following the development of Tresingale and getting to know other characters more. There’s so much history with nuance between them, they feel like real people. I especially enjoyed getting know a bit more about the Emperor and Empress and their dynamic, it opened up a whole new understanding of their motivations and choices and I can’t wait to see where that goes in the next book!
This series as a whole is so unique, it’s not your typical action-packed, fast-paced, defeating a big bad by being otherworldly story that you normally see nowadays, it’s more about the slow building of a grand society from the ground up and still has all of the political intrigue and romance and high stakes of epic fantasy. It feels much more grounded and real and I love it.
Even though Remin and Ophele are happily together now, I liked seeing them work through real couple problems and learning more about Remin and his anxiety. Watching Ophele really taking being a duchess by the reigns and seeing her grow as a person was really rewarding too, that was a gripe I had from the last book but now I can’t wait to see how she does in the capital!
And OH that ending!! I was wondering where the spy situation was going to end up but wow I am SHOCKED and DEVASTATED because what do you mean two plot twists in a row Melissa?! So much was uncovered in this third installment and yet I have so many more questions I need answered!! I eagerly wait for book 4. I am so excited for Selenne and Ophele interactions as well as learning what scandal Lady Verr was involved in. Speaking of Lady Verr, I love that we still can't tell if she's good or bad yet but either way she was bad ass in the end and I respect her.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Melissa J. Cave for the ARC! Can’t wait for A Congress of Roses!!
Melissa just has a way of immersing the reader so deeply into her story. I loved following the development of Tresingale and getting to know other characters more. There’s so much history with nuance between them, they feel like real people. I especially enjoyed getting know a bit more about the Emperor and Empress and their dynamic, it opened up a whole new understanding of their motivations and choices and I can’t wait to see where that goes in the next book!
This series as a whole is so unique, it’s not your typical action-packed, fast-paced, defeating a big bad by being otherworldly story that you normally see nowadays, it’s more about the slow building of a grand society from the ground up and still has all of the political intrigue and romance and high stakes of epic fantasy. It feels much more grounded and real and I love it.
Even though Remin and Ophele are happily together now, I liked seeing them work through real couple problems and learning more about Remin and his anxiety. Watching Ophele really taking being a duchess by the reigns and seeing her grow as a person was really rewarding too, that was a gripe I had from the last book but now I can’t wait to see how she does in the capital!
And OH that ending!! I was wondering where the spy situation was going to end up but wow I am SHOCKED and DEVASTATED because what do you mean two plot twists in a row Melissa?! So much was uncovered in this third installment and yet I have so many more questions I need answered!! I eagerly wait for book 4. I am so excited for Selenne and Ophele interactions as well as learning what scandal Lady Verr was involved in. Speaking of Lady Verr, I love that we still can't tell if she's good or bad yet but either way she was bad ass in the end and I respect her.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Melissa J. Cave for the ARC! Can’t wait for A Congress of Roses!!
December 9, 2025
I require everyone to meet Remin and Ophele!
Last of His Blood is the third book in my beloved Empire of Stars series. This romantic epic fantasy series is the perfect blend of Outlander’s love story and hardships (without the time travel element), The Witcher’s monsters, and the political intrigue of Game of Thrones. This, tied with the medieval fantasy setting, makes this a series I enjoy reading and that I recommend wholeheartedly to fantasy lovers!
The series follows Remin, heir of a noble House that was accused of treason, who has been able to rise from squire to knight and eventually to gain back his duchy when he succeeds in the dangerous and almost impossible task of reconquering a lost territory for the Emperor. Emperor who would like nothing more than to be rid of Remin, and instead is forced to grant him his wish: land, title, and his daughter for wife. But the daughter the Emperor gives to Remin is his illegitimate daughter, Ophele, who has lived in exile her whole life. Their relationship is strained at first, the trust slow to build, but once it does, Remin and Ophele become one of the most beautiful couples ever. She softens his tougher edges, while he helps her become more confident.
This series gets better and better with every book. As we continue to follow Remin, Ophele and their friends as they build a new community and face the hardships of winter and sickness, we also uncover more about the conspiracy that caused the tragic end of Remin’s house. We don’t know why they were unjustly branded as traitors of the Empire BUT we discover HOW it was achieved. My mind is blown. The scene might have been my favorite of the book and series so far, because it paints a tragic and horrific picture of what happened to Remin’s family, and you really understand Remin on a deeper level. It’s easy to see why he’s so distrustful and careful.
As always, I love the couple. Their brute warrior/gentle flower dynamic makes me weak because he would literally hunt anyone who looks at her wrong to the ends of the earth. Also, I was feeling that I would gasp at the end of this book, but I was not prepared for the gasp I gasped, nor for the tears I cried.
Here are some tropes for the series!
💍 arranged marriage
⚔️ enemies to lovers
🏰 medieval setting & political intrigue
🫂 found family
🛡️ a noble hero torn between his duty and his dreams
🌷 a gentle FMC who must learn to take control of her fate
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
Last of His Blood is the third book in my beloved Empire of Stars series. This romantic epic fantasy series is the perfect blend of Outlander’s love story and hardships (without the time travel element), The Witcher’s monsters, and the political intrigue of Game of Thrones. This, tied with the medieval fantasy setting, makes this a series I enjoy reading and that I recommend wholeheartedly to fantasy lovers!
The series follows Remin, heir of a noble House that was accused of treason, who has been able to rise from squire to knight and eventually to gain back his duchy when he succeeds in the dangerous and almost impossible task of reconquering a lost territory for the Emperor. Emperor who would like nothing more than to be rid of Remin, and instead is forced to grant him his wish: land, title, and his daughter for wife. But the daughter the Emperor gives to Remin is his illegitimate daughter, Ophele, who has lived in exile her whole life. Their relationship is strained at first, the trust slow to build, but once it does, Remin and Ophele become one of the most beautiful couples ever. She softens his tougher edges, while he helps her become more confident.
This series gets better and better with every book. As we continue to follow Remin, Ophele and their friends as they build a new community and face the hardships of winter and sickness, we also uncover more about the conspiracy that caused the tragic end of Remin’s house. We don’t know why they were unjustly branded as traitors of the Empire BUT we discover HOW it was achieved. My mind is blown. The scene might have been my favorite of the book and series so far, because it paints a tragic and horrific picture of what happened to Remin’s family, and you really understand Remin on a deeper level. It’s easy to see why he’s so distrustful and careful.
As always, I love the couple. Their brute warrior/gentle flower dynamic makes me weak because he would literally hunt anyone who looks at her wrong to the ends of the earth. Also, I was feeling that I would gasp at the end of this book, but I was not prepared for the gasp I gasped, nor for the tears I cried.
Here are some tropes for the series!
💍 arranged marriage
⚔️ enemies to lovers
🏰 medieval setting & political intrigue
🫂 found family
🛡️ a noble hero torn between his duty and his dreams
🌷 a gentle FMC who must learn to take control of her fate
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
November 1, 2025
Review:
Thank you NetGalley for this review copy.
I loved being back in this world. This book finally introduces the Emperor, we get to see what happened before the start of the book with Remin's family and Ophele's mother. How some of what transpired resulted in the fate of Rem's family.
The stakes of this book felt a lot higher than previous books, and it was the first time I felt nervous for the characters. The combination of the fever and the mystery of who was trying to keep them from leaving the valley. I did however love seeing Ophele come into her own and gain some confidence. I also liked seeing Rem soften up a little. It is adorable that he's only like that when him and Ophele are alone, he has come a long way though. Their romance is so sweet, and I
I still don't understand the motives of Lady Verr. She like she has care or concern for Ophele, but the why is still a mystery. The narrative tells us she has a 'plan', but I don't know what it could be. There are so many reveals, and a lot of fantastic character development. I am excited and nervous in equal measure for the fourth book.
The cliffhanger ending gutted me though.
Thank you NetGalley for this review copy.
I loved being back in this world. This book finally introduces the Emperor, we get to see what happened before the start of the book with Remin's family and Ophele's mother. How some of what transpired resulted in the fate of Rem's family.
The stakes of this book felt a lot higher than previous books, and it was the first time I felt nervous for the characters. The combination of the fever and the mystery of who was trying to keep them from leaving the valley. I did however love seeing Ophele come into her own and gain some confidence. I also liked seeing Rem soften up a little. It is adorable that he's only like that when him and Ophele are alone, he has come a long way though. Their romance is so sweet, and I
I still don't understand the motives of Lady Verr. She like she has care or concern for Ophele, but the why is still a mystery. The narrative tells us she has a 'plan', but I don't know what it could be. There are so many reveals, and a lot of fantastic character development. I am excited and nervous in equal measure for the fourth book.
The cliffhanger ending gutted me though.
November 5, 2025
Absolutely incredible book. I really tried to pace myself to make this book last as long as possible… alas that didn’t work and I finished it in 2 days.
That last page left me shocked and speechless. I had to re-read it several times and then walk around my room in silence for about 30 minutes to process it.
I also can’t wait for them to go to the capital and watch our Ophele and Remin’s relationship grows. I also can’t wait for her to get pregnant and see how overprotective he is going to be.
I didn’t really enjoy the second book that much as I felt it lacked on the plot a bit but I knew it was necessary and there was a lot of character development and introductions. So if you were like me, don’t worry. This book has the perfect blend of plot and character development.
I cannot recommend this book (and series) highly enough.
That last page left me shocked and speechless. I had to re-read it several times and then walk around my room in silence for about 30 minutes to process it.
I also can’t wait for them to go to the capital and watch our Ophele and Remin’s relationship grows. I also can’t wait for her to get pregnant and see how overprotective he is going to be.
I didn’t really enjoy the second book that much as I felt it lacked on the plot a bit but I knew it was necessary and there was a lot of character development and introductions. So if you were like me, don’t worry. This book has the perfect blend of plot and character development.
I cannot recommend this book (and series) highly enough.
November 7, 2025
Cannot wait for the next book!
Struggling to find anything to read to keep my interest after finishing this book - this is a hard book to follow. Now re-reading the series starting over at Traitor’s Son. My heart is breaking a little more now, knowing the characters better, knowing their motivations, and knowing what they’re going to be facing over these first three books. Very much looking forward to the fourth book. Excellent character development and world building. Hard to put down.
Struggling to find anything to read to keep my interest after finishing this book - this is a hard book to follow. Now re-reading the series starting over at Traitor’s Son. My heart is breaking a little more now, knowing the characters better, knowing their motivations, and knowing what they’re going to be facing over these first three books. Very much looking forward to the fourth book. Excellent character development and world building. Hard to put down.
November 4, 2025
A brilliant sequel that dives deeper into some characters whilst gradually moving the plot along. There were some sensitive topics that by and large were dealt with well too.
The additional info to the conspiracy, the added depth to the emperor and the revelation at the end all added intrigue and suspense that means the next book is definitely on the to be read pile.
There’s a little less ‘fantasy’ to this book than the previous but it’s not missed as the story focuses on character development and what I would call sub plot building.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The additional info to the conspiracy, the added depth to the emperor and the revelation at the end all added intrigue and suspense that means the next book is definitely on the to be read pile.
There’s a little less ‘fantasy’ to this book than the previous but it’s not missed as the story focuses on character development and what I would call sub plot building.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 3, 2025
I loved this book. Such a splendid new author, I laughed and I cried the writing was so well done. The progression of the story and the characters is so nicely woven. And I care about them so much. I found the first book in the summer and have waited eagerly for this next instalment. I will have to try to wait patiently for the next book in May.
November 5, 2025
This series is so good. Great world building. I liked the character development throughout the series. Very slow burn but totally works here. Can’t wait for the last two books!
October 26, 2025
What a ride! Beautifully written, again. The character development is just amazing. I KNOW these characters and am loving watching them grow, as individuals and together. It's fun, whimsical, and full of heart.
I love the playfulness of the relationship between R and O. They're really learning one another, not afraid to speak up to one another and really talk about what needs to be discussed. She is such an integral part of the development of the town and he respects the hell out of it.
I'm excited to see what twists and turns are coming for our characters in the next novel!
Thank you to Melissa for letting me be a beta reader for this installment of a beautiful series!
I love the playfulness of the relationship between R and O. They're really learning one another, not afraid to speak up to one another and really talk about what needs to be discussed. She is such an integral part of the development of the town and he respects the hell out of it.
I'm excited to see what twists and turns are coming for our characters in the next novel!
Thank you to Melissa for letting me be a beta reader for this installment of a beautiful series!
October 28, 2025
Soooo good! This series just keeps getting better and better. It's quite intense and very emotional at times. The story and characters draw the reader in. It's going to be a very long six months. Quite the cliffhanger.
Extremely grateful for no homosexuality in this series. It seems everything published lately includes it. It's bad enough it's shoved in our faces everywhere you look. I have no interest to read it. I read to escape this world.
Extremely grateful for no homosexuality in this series. It seems everything published lately includes it. It's bad enough it's shoved in our faces everywhere you look. I have no interest to read it. I read to escape this world.
September 28, 2025
…writing this while crying lowkey wtf that ending be careful cannot wait until may for #4🥹
author still delivered with this one tho:)
this is my first review for a book in a series meaning if yall looking at this then you read the first two:)
i’m really trying to not have any spoilers but im currently heartbroken, be prepared for the ending of this
i love watching ophele and remin continue to grow together and separately as characters.
we get a lot more sections where we get to follow outside characters and there’s some VERY interesting looks into people i wasn’t expecting. the political intrigue has been dialed up in this book compared to the first two where it was very heavy in battling the devils and building tressingale.
this continues to feel so epic fantasy adjacent even if on a smaller scale.
i wanna see ophele take on the tower (the scholar people) and everyone in the capital have to bite their tongues over how amazing she is:) girls a genius and continues to be one of my favorite FMCs ever
i’ve never gotten huge looks into a lot of the politics of what a “lady” or “duchess” is in books like these so lord i did not realize all the rules they got between the different classes and even within i would be so tired😭
*ARC courtesy of netgalley
… seriously i 100% would marry Justenin
SPOILERS
but i’m so scared for next book idk how ophele and remin are gonna be and i fear anyone could be next fuck
author still delivered with this one tho:)
this is my first review for a book in a series meaning if yall looking at this then you read the first two:)
i’m really trying to not have any spoilers but im currently heartbroken, be prepared for the ending of this
i love watching ophele and remin continue to grow together and separately as characters.
we get a lot more sections where we get to follow outside characters and there’s some VERY interesting looks into people i wasn’t expecting. the political intrigue has been dialed up in this book compared to the first two where it was very heavy in battling the devils and building tressingale.
this continues to feel so epic fantasy adjacent even if on a smaller scale.
i wanna see ophele take on the tower (the scholar people) and everyone in the capital have to bite their tongues over how amazing she is:) girls a genius and continues to be one of my favorite FMCs ever
i’ve never gotten huge looks into a lot of the politics of what a “lady” or “duchess” is in books like these so lord i did not realize all the rules they got between the different classes and even within i would be so tired😭
*ARC courtesy of netgalley
… seriously i 100% would marry Justenin
SPOILERS
but i’m so scared for next book idk how ophele and remin are gonna be and i fear anyone could be next fuck
October 22, 2025
This series has me, heart and soul. I was so excited for the third book to finally come so I had the excuse to re-read the first two instead of the 9 million other books on my TBR. I can't express how much I love this series, the fact that it pulls so many emotions out of me and gets me very attached to the story that I completely forget everything else in the world except for this book...Melissa J Cave is that amazing of an author and I love her for it. Each one has pulled me in and refuses to let go, leaving me in a "staring at the wall" phase after finishing. The best feeling though, and I can't get enough.
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