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A Crown Woven in Whispers

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Bound by duty, divided by bloodshed—until desire changes everything.

Before the Milesians and Tuatha found themselves caught in the crossfires of war . . .

One choice,

One chance meeting,

Set in motion a series of events that would change the very fate of Eíre.

Her people call her their queen, but she feels like little more than a pawn in the king’s battle for control of the land. But one chance meeting leaves her with the feeling that something more lies just beyond the edge of who she believes she is.

His people call him Commander of the Northern armies. He has fought for them, bled for them, killed for them. Now he is confronted with an impossible choice when faced with the inexplicable pull of a mysterious stranger. And nothing has ever felt as dangerous as wanting her.

Torn between duty and desire, two sworn enemies must make a choice.

If they are caught, they die as traitors.

If they forget, they live as the ghosts of what could have been.

The Chronicles of the Tuatha series continues with book three, A Crown Woven in Whispers—a prequel novella that sets the story in motion while delving deeply into the lore of the land and the fates of her people.

Paperback

Published May 31, 2025

3 people are currently reading
36 people want to read

About the author

Jessica Leigh

7 books69 followers
Jessica Leigh is a folkloric romance author. Her stories draw from the eerie side of legends and lore—tales of love, loss, and the kind of magic that never really dies. She loves exploring where myth meets emotion, and how ancient tales can still speak to us today.

When she’s not writing, you can find her perusing the bookstore with her husband, soaking in a Colorado sunset, or commuting to her 9-5, dreaming up new stories on
the train.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
Profile Image for Ash.
32 reviews76 followers
June 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book had me hooked — in the best way. From the very first chapter, I was pulled into a story full of tension, power shifts, and emotional stakes. What really stood out was the FMC’s arc — watching her evolve so quickly under pressure and make choices bigger than herself really stuck with me.

The romance had just the right edge of danger and restraint, and while it was a short read, it packed a lot into those pages.

If you like fast pacing, political tension, and a strong female lead navigating impossible choices — this one’s for you.

Thanks so much for the ARC! 💖🫶✨
3 reviews1 follower
May 29, 2025
This book, being the third in the series did not disappoint. The way in which Jessica transported me into the world of Tuatha once more in such a captivating and compelling story, had me, eagerly and happy, sitting along with each character through all the pain, joy and romance (even through the sad parts)

To say I am hooked would be an understatement. It’s been such an incredible opportunity to bear witness not only to Jessica’s writing but her stories evolve, and I cannot wait for book 4. This series, like wine, has only gotten better over time. The characters, and worlds’ development is beginning to become further complex in a way that had me unable to put it down.
Profile Image for The Storytellers Vault Morgan Marie.
14 reviews2 followers
May 28, 2025
I absolutely loved this story!
I was so excited to dive back into Chronicles of the Tuatha, and was pleasantly surprised when we jumped into a storyline that held a magnitude of history for our present day characters. This book held a captivating back story that pulled my heart strings from the very beginning.
The writing was so beautiful, and the world building was easy to follow. I was truly captivated from the first chapter. I’m already missing these characters and am looking forward to falling back into their realm in the next book!
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Jenn.
87 reviews43 followers
June 2, 2025
4/5 ⭐️

Book 3 in the Chronicles of the Tuatha series is a beautifully written, emotionally rich read. The prose is lyrical without being overdone, and the worldbuilding is immersive and detailed, yet super easy to follow. This story tugged at my heartstrings and totally pulled me in w/ the characters, great writing, romance, worldbuilding & banter. And that ending definitely had me in my feels 😭 I’m SAD 😫😭
TLDR; a quick, poignant, & emotional read for fans of the series. 🫶
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Justine Mulroy.
111 reviews
June 19, 2025
ARC Review – A Crown Woven in Whispers

Thanks to the author and publisher for the ARC!

So, I really wanted to love this one — the title and premise totally caught my attention, and I was hoping for a rich, immersive fantasy. The writing has a dreamy vibe that some readers might really enjoy.

That said, I had a hard time staying engaged. The lore felt a bit patchy and jumped around a lot, and some parts started to feel repetitive. I found myself struggling to stay grounded in the world, and the pacing just didn’t quite work for me.
Profile Image for Ash (sundrenchedpage).
165 reviews3 followers
June 12, 2025
⭐⭐⭐½

This was a tricky one to rate for me, as I am such a huge fan of this series.

I think the reason it didn't resonate with me very well is because it felt like more of a prequel story, which wasn't what I was expecting. A Destiny Spun in Silver ended on such a cliffhanger that I was expecting more resolution from this book, and this felt like a standalone novella instead of the third book in a series.

Despite this, the author's writing style is always a real pleasure to read, and this book was no exception. I loved how the mythology of this series was further explored in this book. The characters were beautifully crafted, and I really am looking forward to seeing how this feeds into Medb's story later in the series.

Thank you so much to the author Jessica Leigh for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Lindy Bustabad.
133 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2025
ARC Book Review
A Crown Woven in Whispers by @authorjessleigh
⭐⭐⭐⭐

The third installment in the Chronicles of the Tuatha and a prequel to the earlier books, this novella became my favorite in the series. Unlike the sweeping epic feel of the first two, this story narrows its focus on a more intimate, emotionally resonant romance that stood out for its authenticity.

Sinead and Aodhan’s relationship is quietly powerful and deeply felt. Their connection unfolds with a natural, lived-in kind of tenderness that's exactly what made their story so compelling.

It’s a short read, but it stays with you. The writing is heartfelt and vivid, and the emotions feel honest from start to finish.

Highlights:
✨ A romance that feels earned and organic
✨ Writing that flows effortlessly and draws you in
✨ A glimpse into the personal histories shaping the Tuatha world

Thank you to Jessica Leigh for the ARC—I’m already looking forward to Book 3, especially if we get more stories like this one.
Profile Image for Alexis Wright.
64 reviews8 followers
May 31, 2025
This is the third book in the Chronicles of Tuatha, and it was just as captivating as the others. This installment beautifully provides the backstory of Maeb, the FMC; however, I would definitely recommend reading the series in order, as there are spoilers from the first two books & also trust me on this. 

The story centers on Sinead (FMC)  a queen trapped in an unhappy marriage where she is valued only for her duty. The king is portrayed as a cruel ruler towards the Tuatha people. Seeking solace in her garden & with her sons, an unforeseen event involving her maid leads the queen to flee, only to be kidnapped and taken to a Tuatha camp. This is where we meet Aodhan (MMC), a tall, dark-haired warrior who feels strangely familiar…

This book had a different feel compared to the first two in the series, and it's difficult to articulate exactly how. But I loveeeeeeeed it!

“I'm a danger to exactly no one."
A flicker of something wicked curved at the corners of his lips. "I would have to disagree."
Profile Image for eclecticbychoicereads.
601 reviews61 followers
May 30, 2025
From the first moment I laid my eyes on Jessica's debut, A Daughter Forged in Fire, Book 1 of her Chronicles of the Tuatha series, I knew my life would never be the same. Why? Because Jessica has interwoven herself in every part of my being with her lyrical prose, enchanting world-building, and above all, with her mesmerising characters. Nothing could've prepared me for the impact, and yet, I welcomed it with open arms.

Each book of the series simply makes me fall in love with this world, which is inspired by Celtic, Irish, and Scottish lore, but also unequivocally Jessica's. You can feel her love for the lore and the mythology in the way she brings together her own ideas with those much more ancient than any of us. Her series is a journey that transports you to a world of enchantment & wonder. The way the narrative unfolds, the way the characters come to life, it's all so captivating that the story consumes you.

And Book 3 of the Chronicles, A Crown Woven in Whispers, is no different. This is technically a prequel novella, but it so much more—it paints the picture of the world that is being born, a world filled with prejudice and hate, desperate thirst for power, and a world of the mortals where female voices are no more than a whisper. But also, it is a world of the Tuatha, a world of the persecuted but never fully defeated, a world where love and equality do count, and where female voices are stronger than thunder.

In a world divided, can true love find its path? Always, and in the most unexpected forms. Love will shine through—through differences, wars, and the unknowns. Love, devotion, and passion will always triumph, even in tragedy.

Did I cry my eyes out? Yes. Did my heart soar from declarations of undying love? Oh, it did. Did my soul break and unbreak? It did. And it was all worth it to learn the story of Sinead & Aodhan. And it will be worth it to you, too.

Thank you, Jessica, for having me on your team and letting me experience this story with you!
Profile Image for Alyssa Biggerstaff.
138 reviews
June 1, 2025
A Crown Woven in Whispers, the third installment in The Chronicles of the Tuatha series, is a beautifully haunting prequel novella that explores the quiet moments before the storm—the sparks of rebellion, the cracks in duty, and the whispers of fate that echo through generations. It’s not just a love story; it’s the origin of a legacy, woven delicately into the tapestry of Éire’s myth and magic.

Set before the war between the Milesians and the Tuatha erupts into full fury, this novella centers on two unforgettable figures: a reluctant queen caught in the web of political manipulation, and a hardened commander sworn to a kingdom not his own. Their chance meeting ignites something neither of them fully understands—a deep, dangerous connection that defies reason, allegiance, and even self-preservation.

The tension between duty and desire is at the heart of this story, masterfully rendered in prose that is both lyrical and emotionally raw. Every glance, every stolen moment, carries the weight of inevitable tragedy and impossible longing. The stakes are clear: if they’re caught, they die as traitors; if they walk away, they’re haunted forever. That emotional tightrope makes every scene pulse with intensity.

What makes A Crown Woven in Whispers particularly powerful is how it deepens the mythology of the series. It peels back the veil on the political and emotional tensions that fuel the broader saga, giving readers insight into how everything began—and what was lost before the battles ever started. It’s a novella that feels epic in scope and deeply personal in execution.

For readers who love star-crossed lovers, richly layered lore, and a tragic romance that echoes across time, this is an unmissable addition to the series. If you’re already invested in The Chronicles of the Tuatha, this prequel will break your heart in the best way—and make you see the entire saga with new eyes.
Profile Image for Lisbet Whiteside .
79 reviews
June 7, 2025
👑🌲🌳🌖A Crown Woven in Whispers

by @authorjessleigh

once again an utterly incredible work from Jessica! I was completely captivates by this book and read it in one sitting 🥰

we follow both Cú Chulainn and Medb as well as Sinead and Aodhan concurrently as we learn how their lives affect the others as well as the wider kingdom! It was so interesting to see how this history has directly affected the characters we know and love from the first two books as well as how the war between the Milesians and Tuatha grew from a spark to an inferno.

it was so enthralling to read how the relationships between each pairings grew and developed over the course of the novella and how they directly influenced the relationships and entire world experienced by the characters we already know!

i love how this series examines the position of women in society, as well as how different societies (matriarchal Tuatha and patriarchal Milesian) treat their own women as well as women from the opposing side of the wars. it was amazing to read how Jessica writes empowerment and self certainty into all of her female characters - even when they know they have no power in a situation they never give up trying to make the world better for those who come after.

definitely have a box of tissues on hand for the ending of this book - i gasped out loud and im not ashamed to admit i cried like a baby 🥲

another 6 star read without a doubt and im unfathomably excited for book 4 - the drama, intrigue and plot twists only up with every new installment to this series; each character sucks you in and makes you either love and root for them or despise them wholeheartedly and i can't wait to see the final outcome!!

thank you @authorjessicaleigh for the e-arc, it's always an utter joy to be on your team! 🥰🩶
Profile Image for MicaylaTheBookDragon.
111 reviews3 followers
May 30, 2025
This is a prequel novella in the Chronicles of the Tuatha series that tells the story of Medb's parents. The majority of the story does take place in the past, but portions do also take place in the current story timeline and can have spoilers. Sinead is the queen of the humans, and she is miserable. The king doesn't care for anything but eradicating the Tuatha. The only comfort she feels is in her small garden and her son's, but she can feel their father's influence growing on them. One day, she happens to meet a Tuatha warrior in the woods. He helps her realize that the king is having her followed and watched. After an incident involving Sinead's maid, she runs away to the forest and is kidnapped by a group of Tuatha warriors. They take her back to their camp, and their commander is the Tuatha she first met in the woods, Aodhan. They spend time together and fall in love, but Sinead determines that she must leave because her absence is being used by the king as an excuse to cause more harm to the Tuatha people. She returns to the castle.

This story had a wonderful love story, but it is not a happy ending. Sinead and Aodhan are starcrossed lovers who were made for each other but are doomed to never be together. I greatly enjoyed their story, despite how it ends, but it is definitely leading to greater things for Medb.

Thank you to @authorjessleigh for the gifted eARC.
Profile Image for Ammie.
262 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2025
5/⭐️1.5/🌶️ A Crown Woven in Whispers by Jessica Leigh.

Blurb:
Before the Milesians and Tuatha found themselves caught in the crossfires of war…one choice, on chance meeting, set in motion a series of events that change the very fate of Eire.

This is book three in the series and it is a short novel. This story was such an important step in the series to have more understanding of Medb’s character before we dive in. This story follows Sinead and AodhanAodin. It was a perfect moment of star crossed lovers meets Romeo and Juliet yet more adult.

When we first meet Sinead she is trapped in a loveless marriage and is nothing more than property. Property only meant to serve one purpose and that was to give the King heirs to his throne. You can feel the desperation and the turmoil her character faces. She loves her children but knows deep down that they will be influenced entirely by the King.

Sinead doesn’t think that gentle love could ever exist in world that is until she meets Aodhan. I loved the banter between these two and the immediate connection they have. It was so well written and if you have been reading Jessica’s work up to this point you have an idea of what is to come.

So grab your emotional support water and a box of tissues. You are going to need it, happy reading!
Profile Image for Nicole Francis.
3 reviews
June 19, 2025
Jessica Leigh’s "A Crown Woven in Whispers" is a hauntingly lyrical and immersive fantasy debut that blends intrigue, emotional depth, and a unique take on power and silence. Set in a kingdom where magic is woven into fabric and secrets can be stitched into tapestries, Leigh crafts a vivid and imaginative world that is as tactile as it is ethereal. The protagonist, who must navigate courtly deception and her own painful history, is written with emotional nuance, giving readers a heroine who is both vulnerable and resolute. The writing itself feels like a spell- lush, atmospheric, and quietly powerful.

What sets this book apart is the way it handles trauma and voice, both literal and metaphorical. The protagonist’s ability to manipulate thread-bound magic becomes a reflection of her inner resilience and struggle to reclaim agency in a world that seeks to control her. The slow-burn tension, well-developed supporting cast, and careful pacing make for a story that unfolds with grace and intention. Leigh’s narrative is a testament to quiet strength, and by the final page, it leaves a lasting impression of hope, healing, and power reclaimed. This is a must-read for fans of character-driven fantasy that doesn’t shy away from the dark but still finds light in the threads.
Profile Image for Nicole.
34 reviews7 followers
May 30, 2025
This book was like Romeo and Juliet on a rollercoaster—one that’s on fire, screaming forbidden love, danger, heartbreak, and all the feels. Seriously, it’s like the author decided to blend Shakespeare with a shot of tequila and a dash of chaos, then served it to us on a silver platter. The prequel to Medb’s beginning? Oh, honey, buckle up, because this ride is equal parts tragic and deliciously juicy.

I was flipping pages like my life depended on it, eyes wide, hoping these two would get their fairy-tale ending. Spoiler alert: grab a whole box of tissues (and maybe a shovel to bury your hopes) because I ugly cried so hard I looked like a panda that had just watched The Good Dinosaur on repeat. I went to bed a mess and woke up looking like I’d been punched in the feels—twice.

If you’ve been riding the crazy train with the rest of this series, this book is an absolute must-read. The writing just keeps leveling up like it’s on steroids—every chapter tighter, the drama more intense, the tears harder to fight back. I seriously can’t wait to see what happens next. Bring on the heartbreak, the swoons, and the emotional gut punches, because I’m here for every single delicious second.
Profile Image for Pà.
892 reviews12 followers
May 30, 2025
It's book 3 but somehow feels even more powerful than two previous ones. The vibes, the way everything is connected, it just develops beautifully. I love how you feel the mythology inside everything, but it’s still unique. Sinead and Aodhan's story took me by surprise. I didn’t expect it to hurt like that and still be so full of hope. It’s not the usual kind of romance. I felt all the emotions.
Also, this is technically a prequel but no kidding, it it gave so much depth to the whole world. I understand the series even better now, and it made me love the main storyline more. So so so good. Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving a honest review







Profile Image for Rachael Booth.
28 reviews1 follower
June 8, 2025
Arc Book Review.

A Crown Woven in Whispers by @authorjessleigh

⭐⭐⭐⭐

This is the third book in the Chronicles of the Tuatha series, it is also a prequel series for the first two books!

I applied for this arc not realising it was the third book in a series, so during May and early June I read books 1 & 2, I really enjoyed both. But this book is very much my favourite!

It is short, at 162 pages, but absolutely beautifully written. I became instantly invested with the FMC & MMC and fell in love with their story.

I don't usually cry whilst I read, but this one tugged so hard on my heart strings that a few tears did fall, I highly recommend tissues!

Thank you so much for a copy of this ARC, I am so grateful!
Profile Image for Aubrey.
204 reviews5 followers
June 2, 2025
Beautifully Written and Emotionally Captivating

I read this book in one sitting! Jessica's writing is absolutely stunning—her prose is beautiful, her world-building effortless, and her storytelling always draws me in. As a prequel to the first two books, this story did not disappoint.

Jessica has a true gift for creating characters you instantly care about. I was immediately invested, not just in their journey, but in how their story weaves into the lives of the main characters from the other books. There’s a deep sense of heartbreak and love in these pages, and both are written with such emotional depth.

A must-read for fans of the series, and a powerful story in its own right.
Profile Image for Debbie Eyre.
5,969 reviews116 followers
June 9, 2025
“ The Chronicles of the Tuatha series continues with book three, A Crown Woven in Whispers—a prequel novella that sets the story in motion while delving deeply into the lore of the land and the fates of her people.”
I have throughly enjoyed the previous two books and this latest did not disappoint. Once again the author weaves their spell and enchants us as we make our way back to the lands of Tuatha with a story that enthrals and captivates. Fantastic characters in a world that is so divided as the author draws us in deeper and deeper and a storyline that is moving, haunting and can take your breathe away making the story of Sinead and Aodhan a wonderful yet tragic one.
Profile Image for Booktrovertlibrary.
140 reviews10 followers
June 15, 2025
This third book of the Chronicles of the Tuatha was not disappointing! It is shorter than the others book of the series, but the story is not less heartbreaking and beautiful. Again, we enter the story of another couple of Tuatha and their path to healing. We dive into the past that have forged who they are and when they are going. I must say, this one is particularly tragic.

I think all the details of the context of the story are clear with this third book. I’m really looking forward to read the next one and see what Jessica has in store for us. I’ll take this time to heal my broken heart and be ready for book 4. Thank you Jessica for the chance to read this ARC.
Profile Image for Liz Fully Booked.
547 reviews21 followers
June 4, 2025
Jessica Leigh is such a great storyteller, every book she’s written has been just fantastic. A Crown Woven in Whispers is the third book of the Chronicles of the Tuatha series, and once again, it sinks its hooks in you and doesn’t let go.

This prequel novella is a beautifully written, heartbreaking romance that takes place prior to the events in A Daughter Forged in Fire. If you’re not reading this series, what are you waiting for? Steeped in Celtic folklore and filled with faeries, romance, political intrigue and action, this book and series has it all!
Profile Image for Kati.
46 reviews
June 14, 2025
I love a good prequel and this is absolutely a good prequel! I’m still anxiously awaiting the next book in the series but seeing an earlier period of the lore in the world Jessica has created is interesting. Seeing how things got to be as bad as they are in A Daughter Forged in Fire and A Destiny Spun in Silver really helps put the story even more into understanding.

Good quick pace, good tension both political and romance, and a main character you will be pulled in by. I love visiting the world Jessica has created every time I get a chance!
Profile Image for Jenny.
458 reviews6 followers
June 10, 2025
This is a prequel novella that sets the whole story in motion. We have gotten to see snippets of Sinead and Aodhan's story through this series. I loved how Jess dove into their story and how she portrayed their love and heartbreak for one another. The way he adored her and tries his best to keep her safe.

This prequel just added a whole nother lay to this story as a whole.

Thanks once again Jess for the e-arc.
22 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Totally immersed in this series—read all three books back to back! The worldbuilding is rich, the characters are compelling, and Book 3 really deepens the political and magical history in a big way. Loved the introduction of new characters and the way everything’s building toward something epic.

If you’re into destined mates, strong leads, and magical realms, this one’s for you. Perfect for fans of ACOTAR and The Witcher. Can’t wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Tanis.
42 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2025
Loved being back in the world of Tuatha! 158 pages was perfect for this novella, it was fast paced and told everything it needed to without feeling like it was too short or too long. The writing is beautiful and the story was captivating, left me heartbroken by the end. Thoroughly enjoyed the book and I cannot wait to see what happens in book 4.
Profile Image for Kathleen.
120 reviews
June 2, 2025
a story that tugs on your heartstrings, with an ending that leaves you in tears.
this was such a fast paced, quick moving novella, and I loved being able to get the backstory into this world. the writing was beautiful, I enjoyed this one!
Profile Image for Lauren.
498 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2025
OMG, I thought this was the last one! This book answered most of the questions I had about the previous 2 books. I am so invested in these characters. This book made me cry, but it was beautiful too.
Profile Image for Madison Mathis.
3 reviews
June 10, 2025
Fast paced novella (didn’t realize it was a novella when I started it)! Nice to get the backstory.
Profile Image for Ingrid Spera.
1,144 reviews29 followers
June 15, 2025
This was a short and captivating read. I've loved the world building of this series so much and this book did not disappoint even though it's a prequel. A beautiful addition to the series!
Profile Image for Becky Foxon.
22 reviews
June 23, 2025
This was my favorite one so far even though it was a bit shorter. Loved the tragic backstory to it all. Can’t wait for book four.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews

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