What do you think?
Rate this book
Breath of Mist #1
Breath of Mist
He thought he captured an ordinary girl… but her mind is sharper than his claws.
In a world barely held together by a fragile treaty, Ariana lives under the oppressive shadow of her monstrous father—until Erik, a relentless conjuror determined to break the treaty, invades her lands, and takes her captive. Erik’s invasion shatters the life Ariana has known, thrusting her into a precarious battle where survival hinges on earning her enemy’s trust—which means avoid being seen as a threat.
But Erik never expected to become captivated by the woman who boldly holds his gaze and refuses to tremble in the face of death. And even as Ariana finds herself reluctantly drawn to him in turn, she comes to realize that her freedom will not be given to her. It will need to be taken.
Will Ariana's cunning and resolve be enough to save herself and her people, or will her dreams and heart be consumed by the very man who threatens her world?
In a world barely held together by a fragile treaty, Ariana lives under the oppressive shadow of her monstrous father—until Erik, a relentless conjuror determined to break the treaty, invades her lands, and takes her captive. Erik’s invasion shatters the life Ariana has known, thrusting her into a precarious battle where survival hinges on earning her enemy’s trust—which means avoid being seen as a threat.
But Erik never expected to become captivated by the woman who boldly holds his gaze and refuses to tremble in the face of death. And even as Ariana finds herself reluctantly drawn to him in turn, she comes to realize that her freedom will not be given to her. It will need to be taken.
Will Ariana's cunning and resolve be enough to save herself and her people, or will her dreams and heart be consumed by the very man who threatens her world?
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
43 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
December 10, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I cannot believe this is Leona’s debut novel! This book had me hooked from chapter 1! A strong FMC, an epic slow burn full of tension! The found family in this book was absolutely my favorite part!
Erik, does he take Ariana our FMC captive, yes..yes he does…is he morally grey, yep..heaven forbid a man just wants to save his people..I loved him your honor! Ariana was so relatable, it’s not often I completely love an FMC but I absolutely loved her! I cannot wait to read book 2!
Erik, does he take Ariana our FMC captive, yes..yes he does…is he morally grey, yep..heaven forbid a man just wants to save his people..I loved him your honor! Ariana was so relatable, it’s not often I completely love an FMC but I absolutely loved her! I cannot wait to read book 2!
July 18, 2025
What a fantastic debut!
This book blew me away. I can’t believe it’s the author’s first. The writing feels polished and experienced, with vivid descriptions and a steady, engaging pace. The world-building is immersive and really well thought out.
I absolutely loved the forbidden romance element. Ivar quickly became my favorite character, he’s snarky, charming, and surprisingly genuine. The chemistry between Ariana and Erik is undeniable, though fair warning: this is a slow burn. Excruciatingly slow in the best, most tension-filled way!
The ending was spectacular, with a brilliant setup for the next installment. The villain we’re teased with is chilling and so well-written, I can already tell he’s one I’m going to love to hate.
I’m completely hooked and devastated that I don’t have more of her books to binge. If you’re into romantasy with great characters, tension, and world-building, you need to read this one.
This book blew me away. I can’t believe it’s the author’s first. The writing feels polished and experienced, with vivid descriptions and a steady, engaging pace. The world-building is immersive and really well thought out.
I absolutely loved the forbidden romance element. Ivar quickly became my favorite character, he’s snarky, charming, and surprisingly genuine. The chemistry between Ariana and Erik is undeniable, though fair warning: this is a slow burn. Excruciatingly slow in the best, most tension-filled way!
The ending was spectacular, with a brilliant setup for the next installment. The villain we’re teased with is chilling and so well-written, I can already tell he’s one I’m going to love to hate.
I’m completely hooked and devastated that I don’t have more of her books to binge. If you’re into romantasy with great characters, tension, and world-building, you need to read this one.
January 10, 2026
O M G!!!!! THIS is a Romantasy. This is truly one of the best books I have ever read. I have fallen in love with these characters and this world. I am ready to go to war with the Sidhe!
December 1, 2025
Genre: Romantic Fantasy
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 1/5
🧠 3/10
Cliffhanger: 6/10
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete series. Dual first-person POV. Available on KU.
This is a character driven Fantasy with a romance subplot. The pace of this book feels very slow and intentional. The plot unfolds completely at the whims of the main character's decisions. It's two people with the weight of their troubled kingdoms on their shoulders allowing them little room to carry anything for themselves. The main theme here is a clash of wills that takes up so much of the story. The big bad comes in late allowing the plot to pick up a bit.
I did like this enough to read book 2 but for the length of this book, it felt like we didn't get a lot.
⭐️ 3.5/5
🌶 1/5
🧠 3/10
Cliffhanger: 6/10
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete series. Dual first-person POV. Available on KU.
This is a character driven Fantasy with a romance subplot. The pace of this book feels very slow and intentional. The plot unfolds completely at the whims of the main character's decisions. It's two people with the weight of their troubled kingdoms on their shoulders allowing them little room to carry anything for themselves. The main theme here is a clash of wills that takes up so much of the story. The big bad comes in late allowing the plot to pick up a bit.
I did like this enough to read book 2 but for the length of this book, it felt like we didn't get a lot.
September 27, 2025
4.5
Wow this was one of the best slowest of burns I’ve read! I am obsessed and I need the second one now. I loved Eric new book boyfriend and Ariana with her growth in this obsessed! He of my favorite characters though is Iver. He is so feisty but you can see he has a soft side. I am loving the magic system and world building in this story. The end makes me so curious to see here this goes!
Wow this was one of the best slowest of burns I’ve read! I am obsessed and I need the second one now. I loved Eric new book boyfriend and Ariana with her growth in this obsessed! He of my favorite characters though is Iver. He is so feisty but you can see he has a soft side. I am loving the magic system and world building in this story. The end makes me so curious to see here this goes!
March 5, 2025
Wow! From the first few chapters, I was completely hooked! This book has it all—angst, tension, suspense, adventure, and mystery—just to name a few. I couldn’t put it down. Honestly, if I didn’t have other responsibilities, I would have devoured it in one sitting.
The writing in this book is absolutely stunning. It creates such an immersive atmosphere that you can almost feel the world coming to life around you. The author does a fantastic job painting vivid scenes and drawing you into the story, making you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters.
The female main character (FMC) is everything I love in a protagonist—fierce, strong, and unapologetically badass. Her journey was captivating, and I was completely invested in her development. Her connection with the world around her was so authentic, and I loved every moment of it.
And that ending... Wow, just wow! It left me craving more and wondering what happens next. I can't wait to dive back into this world.
Overall, this book is atmospheric and thrilling, with a strong, unforgettable FMC. I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping, action-packed story.
The writing in this book is absolutely stunning. It creates such an immersive atmosphere that you can almost feel the world coming to life around you. The author does a fantastic job painting vivid scenes and drawing you into the story, making you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters.
The female main character (FMC) is everything I love in a protagonist—fierce, strong, and unapologetically badass. Her journey was captivating, and I was completely invested in her development. Her connection with the world around her was so authentic, and I loved every moment of it.
And that ending... Wow, just wow! It left me craving more and wondering what happens next. I can't wait to dive back into this world.
Overall, this book is atmospheric and thrilling, with a strong, unforgettable FMC. I absolutely loved it and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping, action-packed story.
April 10, 2025
This book had me submerged in its world from the very beginning, until the very last word. The world building was descriptive and drew you into the world of Armeda, so you could see what was being described. The character development was spot on, Ariana the FMC is strong willed, kind, cleaver and very much likable. Erik the MMC, was bold, strong & determined. Their relationship had to be built, their people knew nothing of each other, but rumors and stories told by elders. So, trust, fairness, friendship and understanding had to be developed, not only by our main characters, but the people of their territories as well.
The story is of how Erik and his country was looking for his sister, who was taken by a Sidhe, and the only way that could be done was by going through Bavadin. The pace was steady and consistent throughout the book, there wasn't a lot of banter between the characters, however, descriptive "looks" and actions which builds up tension. Very slow burn but tastefully done. When I was reading, I didn't want to put the book down, I was submerged in the characters and world and was dying to find out what was next. The ending blew my mind and left me wanting book 2. Well written book Leona Welsh seems to know what readers want and delivers that in Breath of Mist.
The story is of how Erik and his country was looking for his sister, who was taken by a Sidhe, and the only way that could be done was by going through Bavadin. The pace was steady and consistent throughout the book, there wasn't a lot of banter between the characters, however, descriptive "looks" and actions which builds up tension. Very slow burn but tastefully done. When I was reading, I didn't want to put the book down, I was submerged in the characters and world and was dying to find out what was next. The ending blew my mind and left me wanting book 2. Well written book Leona Welsh seems to know what readers want and delivers that in Breath of Mist.
June 5, 2025
Omg I loved this! Leona I need the second book!!! Fantasy, forbidden love, opposing lands. This book had it all. I love the tension between Ariana and Eric!
August 21, 2025
Breath of Mist was so good. I fell in love with the characters and loved the story. The banter in this book had me giggling. The part about the “old onion” LOL! The tension and slow burn was just right. Our fmc is very head strong and not scared to speak her mind. Plus, she is very kind and a great friend. Just love her. Our mmc, is very head strong, powerful and use to always getting his way, until he meets her…. Oh, their time together is fun. Then you add his brothers and friends in the mix. Loved every minute of it. So I need the second book, because, Mrs Leona, why? At the end, why 😱😳 and what is she going to do??? I can’t stop thinking about this book.
March 13, 2025
WOW! Just WOW! This book was such a fun captivating read!! I’m completely obsessed!!! I didn’t want to put it down!! I can’t wait till the next books come out! I will definitely be buying a copy once it releases!
November 6, 2025
I was able to read an ARC of this book and the following is my honest review:
I'm going to start this off by saying - WOW.
This is the authors debut novel and it had me kicking my feet, foaming at the mouth, starving for more. I am now feral to get my hands on book 2!
The World Building:
The author was able to develop a detailed world for the me to immerse myself into in a way that isn't overwhelming. The world building begins in the prologue and is eloquent and captivating. From there forward the information is given in pieces as it is necessary to the story. The magic (conjuring) was not the typical powers that you see overused in fantasy books. Kudos to the author for creating something unique in that area.
Characters:
Both Ariana (FMC) and Erik (MMC) are probably two of my favorite main characters I've read in a long time. I could not get enough of their interactions as their friendship and relationship developed. Both characters had such depth that you learned more and more about both of them throughout the entire story. Ariana is amazing. She is a strong, brave and powerful FMC without being brash, rude or unfeminine. I so appreciated that!
The supporting characters kept you invested and guessing their motives. There wasn't a single predictable character in the entire book. The sub plot that takes place between two supporting characters have me wishing they could have their own entire story!
Plot:
From the very first page of the prologue the author pulls you into her world. There is a lot of relational development and building of trust in the beginning, and while many books that have that tend to be slower paced, this one was not. The pacing was fantastic for the amount of world building that takes place throughout the story. The more action heavy scenes were properly dispersed throughout the book in a way that kept me immersed in the story.
I am a multi book mood reader and I have a terrible habit of getting half way though a book and moving on to something else for a bit before coming back to it. That did NOT happen with this book. I found myself completely invested in the story so much that I didn't pick up another book. That may not sound like a big deal to whoever is reading this review, but trust me- it is.
In regards to the romance...
I am going to say this loud and clear because I feel like it needs to be said:
This is a SLOW BURN ROMANTASY.
Slow. Burn.
While I enjoy some good spice in books, I prefer the story to be plot driven and this book hit it.
Is there spice?
Yes.
But the spice is not the whole point of this book and the characters actually develop a relationship first! (Crazy...I know... (sarcasm intended)).
The development between the main characters had me kicking my feet!
Witty bantering, in depth personal conversations, relationship development, flirting, yearning.
YES PLEASE & THANK YOU!
I would give this book 1 🌶️ for spice. However, because of the way the author set up the ending I have a feeling the second book will be a bit spicier.
Final Take:
I don't just dish out 5 stars. Those stars have to be earned.
This book earned them.
I applaud the author for her debut novel because it hit all the bullet points for what I love in a book. I am now going to be anxiously awaiting book 2 because that cliffhanger has me soooo ready for more!
I'm going to start this off by saying - WOW.
This is the authors debut novel and it had me kicking my feet, foaming at the mouth, starving for more. I am now feral to get my hands on book 2!
The World Building:
The author was able to develop a detailed world for the me to immerse myself into in a way that isn't overwhelming. The world building begins in the prologue and is eloquent and captivating. From there forward the information is given in pieces as it is necessary to the story. The magic (conjuring) was not the typical powers that you see overused in fantasy books. Kudos to the author for creating something unique in that area.
Characters:
Both Ariana (FMC) and Erik (MMC) are probably two of my favorite main characters I've read in a long time. I could not get enough of their interactions as their friendship and relationship developed. Both characters had such depth that you learned more and more about both of them throughout the entire story. Ariana is amazing. She is a strong, brave and powerful FMC without being brash, rude or unfeminine. I so appreciated that!
The supporting characters kept you invested and guessing their motives. There wasn't a single predictable character in the entire book. The sub plot that takes place between two supporting characters have me wishing they could have their own entire story!
Plot:
From the very first page of the prologue the author pulls you into her world. There is a lot of relational development and building of trust in the beginning, and while many books that have that tend to be slower paced, this one was not. The pacing was fantastic for the amount of world building that takes place throughout the story. The more action heavy scenes were properly dispersed throughout the book in a way that kept me immersed in the story.
I am a multi book mood reader and I have a terrible habit of getting half way though a book and moving on to something else for a bit before coming back to it. That did NOT happen with this book. I found myself completely invested in the story so much that I didn't pick up another book. That may not sound like a big deal to whoever is reading this review, but trust me- it is.
In regards to the romance...
I am going to say this loud and clear because I feel like it needs to be said:
This is a SLOW BURN ROMANTASY.
Slow. Burn.
While I enjoy some good spice in books, I prefer the story to be plot driven and this book hit it.
Is there spice?
Yes.
But the spice is not the whole point of this book and the characters actually develop a relationship first! (Crazy...I know... (sarcasm intended)).
The development between the main characters had me kicking my feet!
Witty bantering, in depth personal conversations, relationship development, flirting, yearning.
YES PLEASE & THANK YOU!
I would give this book 1 🌶️ for spice. However, because of the way the author set up the ending I have a feeling the second book will be a bit spicier.
Final Take:
I don't just dish out 5 stars. Those stars have to be earned.
This book earned them.
I applaud the author for her debut novel because it hit all the bullet points for what I love in a book. I am now going to be anxiously awaiting book 2 because that cliffhanger has me soooo ready for more!
August 13, 2025
5 stars! This book was such a fantastic read. Breath of Mist was the pick for my book club this month, and I'm super glad it was!! From the prologue, I was sucked into this world of political intrigue, enemies to lovers, and unique magic systems.
This book follows Ariana, the daughter of the Supreme Leader of her race, the Bavadrins, and Erik, a Lysian who kidnaps her. Neither person truly knows what the other is like, and I truly enjoyed getting to know each of these characters. Ariana is so kind and strong even in the face of danger, and Erik is tough yet fair. The two of them have a delicious slow burn in this book, and I can't wait to see how their relationship may progress in book two.
However, I think this is one of the books where a side character is my favorite instead of one of the main ones. Iver, Erik's brother, is kinda insane, but in the best way possible. Imagine Bjorn from Vikings, and to me, that's Iver. He may be loud, brash, and crazy, but he is loyal to the people he cares about in his special way.
If you are looking for a good fantasy romance with an intriguing plot, an amazing cast of characters, and some really cool magic, I totally recommend reading this book! Now, if you will excuse me, I am going to be staring at the wall processing everything and waiting for book two lol.
This book follows Ariana, the daughter of the Supreme Leader of her race, the Bavadrins, and Erik, a Lysian who kidnaps her. Neither person truly knows what the other is like, and I truly enjoyed getting to know each of these characters. Ariana is so kind and strong even in the face of danger, and Erik is tough yet fair. The two of them have a delicious slow burn in this book, and I can't wait to see how their relationship may progress in book two.
However, I think this is one of the books where a side character is my favorite instead of one of the main ones. Iver, Erik's brother, is kinda insane, but in the best way possible. Imagine Bjorn from Vikings, and to me, that's Iver. He may be loud, brash, and crazy, but he is loyal to the people he cares about in his special way.
If you are looking for a good fantasy romance with an intriguing plot, an amazing cast of characters, and some really cool magic, I totally recommend reading this book! Now, if you will excuse me, I am going to be staring at the wall processing everything and waiting for book two lol.
November 8, 2025
This book took me by surprise. The slow burn, the magic system, the never ending tension, the plot…. And don’t even get me started on the cliffhanger. Ariana is the daughter of the Leader Superior of the Bavadrin people. With their lands split in 3, between the Bavadrin, the Lysian, and the Sidhe, Ariana finds herself on a journey through the enemy lands after unforeseen circumstances. Together, King Erik of the Lysian people and Ariana must find out where all of their conjurors are disappearing to. While being held prisoner of the Lysian’s, Ariana finds herself growing into the woman she was always meant to be, the one chosen by the Spirit with the power to match it. Upon her return to her homeland, Ariana ascends into Leader Superior herself and must face the challenging task of locating their missing people with the help of the Lysian King. But she uncovers many secrets and dare I say, some betrayal? This story is incredible and I enjoyed the main characters so much. I’m chomping at the bit for the next one because that ending was completely unexpected
November 14, 2025
This was AMAZING. The fact that not more people are talking about this book and that this was a debut novel is insanity!!! I thought the world was incredibly unique but also simple enough that I didn't feel like I was confused at any point which is so refreshing in a romantasy book. Loved that there was no insta-love like the character's inner monologues were never about how attractive the other was which was such a nice change. You really see the build up in Ariana and Erik's relationship and see how their relationship evolves into something more instead of it being based on looks only. I also loved Iver as a side character. And that ending?! I'm scared for the next book.
March 26, 2025
I’ve been telling myself that I want to get into more indie authors and I had the honor of getting an ARC for this book. For a debut romantasy novel, it was damn near PERFECT! It starts out action packed then you get a little bit of world building and character development. There’s no to much of one thing in this book, it was all spread out so nicely. The way I attached myself to these characters so quick! I found myself loving Ariana and Erik straight from the beginning. I really really enjoyed this arc and think it could be big one day! I can’t wait for the rest of this series! Great job Leona!
March 22, 2025
Breath of Mist was such a cool adventure. The world had some many unique elements. I really enjoyed seeing Ariana really come into herself over the course of the book. Erik started out with the toughest exterior, but she wore him down. The side characters really sealed the deal, I love Edda and her snarky old lady comments. Iver is the perfect sarcastic side character that stole my attention. I hope we get more of his story in the coming books. This was the perfect slowest of slow burns. The ending had my jaw on the floor!
March 26, 2025
By doing the right thing to save her people, she ended up getting to fall for the enemy. This is an adorable book that is so detailed that you can imagine everything that the author is writing about. You could just feel the betrayals as well as the love and need for people to get together finally. It was such a good book that was sweet and is a must-read. (ends on a cliffhanger)
January 24, 2026
Fantasy romance
Slow burn
Delicious tension
Forced proximity
Betrayal
Mystery
Some twists
Kicking myself for waiting so long to pick this up! What an amazing debut!!! Don't sleep on this one - if it is on your TBR, pick it up now - and thank me later!
There was not a moment of this I did not love. I am an absolute sucker for a slow burn and delicious tension.
The world building was so wonderfully done and you feel like you are there with the characters and so immersed.
The ending had my frothing at the mouth for the next - which I also immediately devoured.
Slow burn
Delicious tension
Forced proximity
Betrayal
Mystery
Some twists
Kicking myself for waiting so long to pick this up! What an amazing debut!!! Don't sleep on this one - if it is on your TBR, pick it up now - and thank me later!
There was not a moment of this I did not love. I am an absolute sucker for a slow burn and delicious tension.
The world building was so wonderfully done and you feel like you are there with the characters and so immersed.
The ending had my frothing at the mouth for the next - which I also immediately devoured.
January 27, 2026
I really enjoyed this, the world building, the true slow burn, the characters!!
March 24, 2025
I loved the FMC so much 🥰🥰🥰 a badass FMC will always win my heart
January 26, 2026
4.7 ⭐️!!!
An epic slow burn with a strong FMC and don’t even get me started on the MMC!! Absolutely incredible and that cliffhanger?! My mind is blown. Absolutely fantastic and a unique magic system.
An epic slow burn with a strong FMC and don’t even get me started on the MMC!! Absolutely incredible and that cliffhanger?! My mind is blown. Absolutely fantastic and a unique magic system.
August 11, 2025
This book has to be one of the best slow burns I have read in a long time. The tension between these characters is so thick in the air it feels as if a rock could shatter it like glass. This doesn't just go for the main characters.
I have never been so invested in characters in a while. I would forget that I was tsbbing my book at times because I had to know what was going to happen next.
The magic system of this world is so captivating that you can't help but be drawn into the story. It's one of those stories you wonder what kind of magic you would have if you were part of this world.
I highly recommend reading this book because the way it is so beautifully written just keeps you sucked in and I just can't wait to get my hands on book two.
I have never been so invested in characters in a while. I would forget that I was tsbbing my book at times because I had to know what was going to happen next.
The magic system of this world is so captivating that you can't help but be drawn into the story. It's one of those stories you wonder what kind of magic you would have if you were part of this world.
I highly recommend reading this book because the way it is so beautifully written just keeps you sucked in and I just can't wait to get my hands on book two.
August 8, 2025
DUUUUUUDE😱 the last 100 pages… I COULD NOT STOP READINGGGGG!! the last 5 pages - the bestie poo - the cliffhanger WHYYY😭
August 5, 2025
Breath of Mist
Sooo good! Give me this in every book please and thank you!
After I made it past the prologue this book was fast paced and interesting. It has the perfect mix of humor, banter, and friendship to keep you entertained!
I can’t wait to see what happens next
Sooo good! Give me this in every book please and thank you!
After I made it past the prologue this book was fast paced and interesting. It has the perfect mix of humor, banter, and friendship to keep you entertained!
I can’t wait to see what happens next
August 15, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! The character and world building was perfect. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down. It was fast paced but never rushed. It is a angsty-tension filled slow burn and I freaking loved it. Can't wait for the next one!!
December 3, 2025
This is a very character-driven romantasy, and I loved it. Ariana is sharp, observant, quietly stubborn, and not afraid to think three steps ahead when the situation calls for it. She’s grown up under a brutal father, and you can feel how those survival instincts shape her choices without ever making her feel cold or flat.
Erik surprised me. I went in expecting the usual broody conqueror, but he has a lot more depth than that. He’s determined and powerful, yes, but he’s also grounded by loyalty to his people and the responsibility he carries. Watching these two circle each other not just romantically, but politically and emotionally is honestly where most of the tension comes from.
And let me be clear: this is a slow burn. A true, steady, intentional slow burn. You’re getting yearning, longing looks, careful choices, moments where you just know they could kiss but absolutely won’t yet. It’s one chili pepper at most, but the tension fills the space in a way that feels earned.
The magic system (conjuring) was also fantastic. It’s not the standard recycled elemental stuff but instead it has rules, weight, and consequences, and it ties directly into the political conflict instead of just being shiny window dressing.
The plot really kicks up when the larger threat comes into play later in the book, and the ending sets book two up in a way that instantly made me annoyed I can’t read it yet. The cliffhanger is legit, but not cheap and it feels like the natural escalation of everything that’s been simmering.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, atmospheric romantic fantasy with a focus on trust, tension, and complicated alliances. If you love slow burns, immersive worlds, and character-heavy storytelling, this is absolutely worth picking up.
What to Expect
-Enemies to uneasy allies (to… something more)
-Captive/captor tension
-Slow burn (like actual slow burn)
-Forbidden pull between rival realms
-Touch-starved but pretending otherwise
-Woman who’s smarter than everyone realizes
-Man who is terrifying on the outside but has layers
-Political tension + magic system with consequences
Erik surprised me. I went in expecting the usual broody conqueror, but he has a lot more depth than that. He’s determined and powerful, yes, but he’s also grounded by loyalty to his people and the responsibility he carries. Watching these two circle each other not just romantically, but politically and emotionally is honestly where most of the tension comes from.
And let me be clear: this is a slow burn. A true, steady, intentional slow burn. You’re getting yearning, longing looks, careful choices, moments where you just know they could kiss but absolutely won’t yet. It’s one chili pepper at most, but the tension fills the space in a way that feels earned.
The magic system (conjuring) was also fantastic. It’s not the standard recycled elemental stuff but instead it has rules, weight, and consequences, and it ties directly into the political conflict instead of just being shiny window dressing.
The plot really kicks up when the larger threat comes into play later in the book, and the ending sets book two up in a way that instantly made me annoyed I can’t read it yet. The cliffhanger is legit, but not cheap and it feels like the natural escalation of everything that’s been simmering.
Overall, this is a thoughtful, atmospheric romantic fantasy with a focus on trust, tension, and complicated alliances. If you love slow burns, immersive worlds, and character-heavy storytelling, this is absolutely worth picking up.
What to Expect
-Enemies to uneasy allies (to… something more)
-Captive/captor tension
-Slow burn (like actual slow burn)
-Forbidden pull between rival realms
-Touch-starved but pretending otherwise
-Woman who’s smarter than everyone realizes
-Man who is terrifying on the outside but has layers
-Political tension + magic system with consequences
March 31, 2025
I absolutely DEVOURED this book!! This story is addicting and I seriously could not put it down.
We follow two POVs, the FMC Ariana and the MMC Erik. Ariana is everything I wanted in a FMC. Strong, confident, intelligent, just to name a few. I loved having Erik’s POV and seeing his character development. I loved the magic system in this book so much, it’s definitely unique!
This story is very plot driven and the romance is minimal. I loved how this relationship developed and it was very realistic to how it grew and I appreciate that in a book! There is flirting and yearning and banter that makes you blush! But the story line is so well written that you’re not even worried about the romance aspect.
Leona not only writes lovable main characters but also spent time making us love the side characters as well!! I loved getting to know all the different dynamics within the supporting characters and knowing their stories.
I truly can’t wait for this story to continue!!
Tropes:
🔥 banter
🔥 magic
🔥 sloooww burn
🔥 enemies to lovers
We follow two POVs, the FMC Ariana and the MMC Erik. Ariana is everything I wanted in a FMC. Strong, confident, intelligent, just to name a few. I loved having Erik’s POV and seeing his character development. I loved the magic system in this book so much, it’s definitely unique!
This story is very plot driven and the romance is minimal. I loved how this relationship developed and it was very realistic to how it grew and I appreciate that in a book! There is flirting and yearning and banter that makes you blush! But the story line is so well written that you’re not even worried about the romance aspect.
Leona not only writes lovable main characters but also spent time making us love the side characters as well!! I loved getting to know all the different dynamics within the supporting characters and knowing their stories.
I truly can’t wait for this story to continue!!
Tropes:
🔥 banter
🔥 magic
🔥 sloooww burn
🔥 enemies to lovers
April 6, 2025
I enjoyed Breath of Mist! This book was about a medium pace, with most of the intense stuff happening right at the beginning and again more towards the end, finishing on a bit of a cliffhanger note. Ariana and Erik are definitely going to make for an interesting pair, and I really look forward to seeing more of Kole, who I definitely have a soft spot for.
As things go on, I'm progressively worrying about Edda. I think some of her comments foreshadow her life coming to an end before the Bavadrin and Lysian people can defeat the looming threat of Clause.
I think that some of the writing felt.. uncomfortably formal sometimes, and that's really my biggest complaint overall. I didn't like the way that 'for' was used in place of since and other synonyms that would have made it flow better. The storyline was good, the details were satisfying and the word was built well. The characters were all pretty likeable too!
I read an ARC copy for free and am really grateful to Leona Welch and her team for giving me a chance to read such a great book in exchange for my thoughts.
As things go on, I'm progressively worrying about Edda. I think some of her comments foreshadow her life coming to an end before the Bavadrin and Lysian people can defeat the looming threat of Clause.
I think that some of the writing felt.. uncomfortably formal sometimes, and that's really my biggest complaint overall. I didn't like the way that 'for' was used in place of since and other synonyms that would have made it flow better. The storyline was good, the details were satisfying and the word was built well. The characters were all pretty likeable too!
I read an ARC copy for free and am really grateful to Leona Welch and her team for giving me a chance to read such a great book in exchange for my thoughts.
March 15, 2025
I was drawn in by the gorgeous cover and the author was kind enough to send me an ARC. I absolutely devoured this book!
I really loved the writing style and was immediately hooked by the main character, who I found to be very relatable. She was smart and strategic, and I never felt like her behavior didn’t make sense. I don’t like when authors try to make their female leads super tough and physically more powerful than trained warriors for no apparent reason—Leona Welch didn’t fall into that trap and I found the main character way more compelling as a result.
This is definitely a slow burn and there were a few times I wanted to throw my kindle across the room at the tension but that made the romance so much better! I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book and I’m writing this review before book 1 even comes out. I think this is Leona’s first novel and it’s an amazing debut! I loved it and I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
I really loved the writing style and was immediately hooked by the main character, who I found to be very relatable. She was smart and strategic, and I never felt like her behavior didn’t make sense. I don’t like when authors try to make their female leads super tough and physically more powerful than trained warriors for no apparent reason—Leona Welch didn’t fall into that trap and I found the main character way more compelling as a result.
This is definitely a slow burn and there were a few times I wanted to throw my kindle across the room at the tension but that made the romance so much better! I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book and I’m writing this review before book 1 even comes out. I think this is Leona’s first novel and it’s an amazing debut! I loved it and I’ll be waiting impatiently for the next in the series.
December 10, 2025
Wow this was such a great debut novel by Leona. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m very judgy on writing style and often debuts can be tough to get through but I was pleasantly surprised by how well written Breath of Mist was. It doesn’t read like a debut at all.
I really enjoyed the world building and magic system as well as the politics of the peoples. We get a good amount of character development so that we can decide who’s side we’re on when the tensions get high between the 3 peoples (Bavadrins, Lysians & the Sidhe). This is also a true slow burn which I love! Nothing frustrates me more going into what I think is a slow burn and they have an intimate moment before you reach at least 50% of the way through.
And I must ask, is Iver going to be our next Carion Swift, our Ridoc, our comedic relief side character? I need more of him!
I really enjoyed the world building and magic system as well as the politics of the peoples. We get a good amount of character development so that we can decide who’s side we’re on when the tensions get high between the 3 peoples (Bavadrins, Lysians & the Sidhe). This is also a true slow burn which I love! Nothing frustrates me more going into what I think is a slow burn and they have an intimate moment before you reach at least 50% of the way through.
And I must ask, is Iver going to be our next Carion Swift, our Ridoc, our comedic relief side character? I need more of him!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews