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A Thousand Burning Ravens
On the day blood oaths were to be sworn to the King of Falkmere, crimson spilled in an entirely different way. When the Fallen Fae God, Vesperian Shayd decapitated the King, an ancient magic died with him, leaving Falkmere at the mercy of an equally ancient curse.
In possession of a burdensome prophesy and ruinous secrets — such as a hidden pregnancy— newly widowed queen, Myla Alerys, must step into a role of leadership she never wanted.
In order to break Vesperian’s curse (something it seems she cannot accomplish without rekindling a childhood love with the steadfast Captain Bryar Monroe) Myla must seek help in the most unlikely of places.
On this quest of found families and second chance loves, Myla will join forces with a mysterious Seer, a cloister of quiet monks, and the formidable Ashborn to break free of the Blood Stealer’s curse.
In possession of a burdensome prophesy and ruinous secrets — such as a hidden pregnancy— newly widowed queen, Myla Alerys, must step into a role of leadership she never wanted.
In order to break Vesperian’s curse (something it seems she cannot accomplish without rekindling a childhood love with the steadfast Captain Bryar Monroe) Myla must seek help in the most unlikely of places.
On this quest of found families and second chance loves, Myla will join forces with a mysterious Seer, a cloister of quiet monks, and the formidable Ashborn to break free of the Blood Stealer’s curse.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2025
47 people are currently reading
587 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
February 17, 2025
Where do I even start?!😭
Before even starting this book I made a joke about how after finishing it I would be a changed woman, and here I stand TRULY a changed woman.
Never in my life have I read something so eloquently written and that carries so much emotion and addresses REAL LIFE problems, while still feeling like the adventure of a lifetime.
Myla, the FMC, is all of us. She is every woman who has ever been seen as less than just because she is a girl, she is every woman who has ever doubted themselves because society does, she is every woman who has suffered at the hands of men and misogyny, she is every woman who has ever endured abuse. And she stands the fuck up, takes accountability for it, and CREATES HER OWN HAPPINESS. It is breathtaking and awe inspiring and there are no words. Never in my twenty two years of life have I read a book that made me feel so seen and heard and appreciated. Myla is the warm hug and not so gentle reminder to stand the fuck up that we all need.
And Bryar, my baby my love! God that man is somehow equally as sexy as he is emotionally intelligent! The way he NEVER walks away from his woman and stands tall, breathing life into her when she can’t do it herself is truly astounding. He is the man we all deserve. The bad ass, rough around the edges, softy stole my heart from the moment I met him.
Every single character in this book was so well rounded and I was immediately attached to them all. There are bits of the people around me in every single one of them and they felt like family. It is truly captivating the way the author makes you feel like you are LIVING in the found family with these characters.
I laughed, I cried (A LOT), and I healed while reading ATBR. I feel like the parts of me that I didn’t even know were aching to be seen and spoken about have been brought to the light and healed with gentle kisses. I am a changed woman and I am better for it.
This book is easily in my top 5 books I’ve ever fucking read. Pick it up you won’t regret it. There is healing and comfort waiting for you among the pages. 🫶🏻
Before even starting this book I made a joke about how after finishing it I would be a changed woman, and here I stand TRULY a changed woman.
Never in my life have I read something so eloquently written and that carries so much emotion and addresses REAL LIFE problems, while still feeling like the adventure of a lifetime.
Myla, the FMC, is all of us. She is every woman who has ever been seen as less than just because she is a girl, she is every woman who has ever doubted themselves because society does, she is every woman who has suffered at the hands of men and misogyny, she is every woman who has ever endured abuse. And she stands the fuck up, takes accountability for it, and CREATES HER OWN HAPPINESS. It is breathtaking and awe inspiring and there are no words. Never in my twenty two years of life have I read a book that made me feel so seen and heard and appreciated. Myla is the warm hug and not so gentle reminder to stand the fuck up that we all need.
And Bryar, my baby my love! God that man is somehow equally as sexy as he is emotionally intelligent! The way he NEVER walks away from his woman and stands tall, breathing life into her when she can’t do it herself is truly astounding. He is the man we all deserve. The bad ass, rough around the edges, softy stole my heart from the moment I met him.
Every single character in this book was so well rounded and I was immediately attached to them all. There are bits of the people around me in every single one of them and they felt like family. It is truly captivating the way the author makes you feel like you are LIVING in the found family with these characters.
I laughed, I cried (A LOT), and I healed while reading ATBR. I feel like the parts of me that I didn’t even know were aching to be seen and spoken about have been brought to the light and healed with gentle kisses. I am a changed woman and I am better for it.
This book is easily in my top 5 books I’ve ever fucking read. Pick it up you won’t regret it. There is healing and comfort waiting for you among the pages. 🫶🏻
September 25, 2025
Review one: Beta Stage🫣 the obsession i have with these characters is insane. I love Myla so much and how strong she is. And the story is AMAZING! Its emotional and powering. It makes you feel like a badass the whole time
update(way late cause I suck):
I didnt think this story could get any better after Betas but it did. myla is a QUEEN that I aspire to be and I like to think we all have a little Myla sprinkled in every single one of us.
myla and Bryars love is stronger than anything that can conquer it and for a love like that I would do just about anything. if you want to scream, cry, and maybe throw your book across the room, this is the story for you
update(way late cause I suck):
I didnt think this story could get any better after Betas but it did. myla is a QUEEN that I aspire to be and I like to think we all have a little Myla sprinkled in every single one of us.
myla and Bryars love is stronger than anything that can conquer it and for a love like that I would do just about anything. if you want to scream, cry, and maybe throw your book across the room, this is the story for you
January 26, 2025
Myla and Bryar are #goals
Myla is LITERALLY The Boss Queen and Bryar sets such a high standard for how men should be 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 the LORE and the BACKSTORIES and the FRIENDSHIPS
The secrets and the twists and the shocks are for real and if you think you have something figured out, you’re probably wrong.
10/10 tell your friends
Myla is LITERALLY The Boss Queen and Bryar sets such a high standard for how men should be 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 the LORE and the BACKSTORIES and the FRIENDSHIPS
The secrets and the twists and the shocks are for real and if you think you have something figured out, you’re probably wrong.
10/10 tell your friends
July 5, 2025
I loved this book. The romance completely got under my skin. It’s a slow burn in the best, most agonizing way, and when it finally happens, it really hits. The chemistry between the characters felt so real, with just the right mix of tension, longing, and heartbreak. I was rooting for them the entire time. I mean… who wouldn’t love a bodyguard simping and panting over his queen like she’s the only thing keeping him alive? Because that’s exactly what this whole book felt like. Lol.
The worldbuilding is incredible. It’s dark, magical, and immersive without ever feeling overwhelming. Every detail felt purposeful and alive. The magic was such an interesting part of it. There were aspects I found really original and well thought out. I especially appreciated that it wasn’t just mentioned at the beginning and then forgotten. It had real presence and weight throughout the story.
There was one part I didn’t love. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy the FMC being made jealous, then you’ll get me. But thankfully, it didn’t ruin the book or affect my rating. It was handled quickly, and honestly, the MMC is so deeply devoted that it never really put their relationship at risk.
March 14, 2025
DNF 60%
I tried and tried to stick with this but I just wasn’t connecting to the story or its characters. The beginning kind of just threw you into a messy plot that confused me right off the bat and I couldn’t recover from it. Our FMC showed signs of potential but at the halfway mark still fell a little flat for me. Maybe I’ll try to pick this up back later but it’s not gonna cut it for me right now.
I tried and tried to stick with this but I just wasn’t connecting to the story or its characters. The beginning kind of just threw you into a messy plot that confused me right off the bat and I couldn’t recover from it. Our FMC showed signs of potential but at the halfway mark still fell a little flat for me. Maybe I’ll try to pick this up back later but it’s not gonna cut it for me right now.
February 16, 2025
I received this ARC on Valentine’s Day and it was the perfect way to spend my weekend while I was stuck in bed sick! I won’t give too much away, but I loved Myla and her growth throughout the book. She’s a badass, determined, and knows her worth. Strong FMCs are my absolute fav. The ending sets it up perfectly for the next book and I can’t wait to continue the journey with Myla and Bryar!
Highly recommend 🐦⬛
Highly recommend 🐦⬛
May 23, 2025
Thank you so so so much for allowing me to be apart of your street team and ARC reading for you!! I feel so happy to have gotten this book and hype you up🥹😭
This book is absolutely fantastic. Myra, our FMC, is a woman that I think we could relate to in some way or another. I loved her story and her character arc so much. She was such a well-rounded, thought out, imperfect character. The issues that she faced and her inner monologue was so heart touching and emotional. Her twisting her own trauma to words and stories to make others comfortable and to get rid of her ‘guilt’ (woman having guilt over things that they should never have had guilt over is a way too common thing in this world, but I love seeing us conquer that). She made herself small to fit in the man’s world even though she was the queen who bleeds stars!! To connect so deeply with her and to see how she really comes into her own and fights back against a world that will continuously try to knock her down was so beautifully done.
Bryar, our MMC, is the perfect man😭🫡 her captain of the guard, her bodyguard, a long lost lover, the most loyal down BAD man you could ever dream up. He’s killer in a fight, he’s funny, SASSY, and loves our queen like she should be. I love him, and I’m not usually one for second chance romances or friends to lovers (sorry, I’m such an enemies to lover girlie🥲) BUT DAMNIT THESE TWO MADE ME EAT MY WORDS. I’ll read about them falling in love over and over again.
The world itself is very fun and intriguing. The magic system is well thought out and easy to read through, but keeps you entertained. The secrets, the twists and turns, the EMOTIONS. This debut book is definitely not one you will want to miss, Kier writes so beautifully and in a way that makes you feel so connected to each and every single character (so obviously you will cry, my only warning haha). The political strife that we left off on will make the second book just as interesting and I cannot wait!!
This book is absolutely fantastic. Myra, our FMC, is a woman that I think we could relate to in some way or another. I loved her story and her character arc so much. She was such a well-rounded, thought out, imperfect character. The issues that she faced and her inner monologue was so heart touching and emotional. Her twisting her own trauma to words and stories to make others comfortable and to get rid of her ‘guilt’ (woman having guilt over things that they should never have had guilt over is a way too common thing in this world, but I love seeing us conquer that). She made herself small to fit in the man’s world even though she was the queen who bleeds stars!! To connect so deeply with her and to see how she really comes into her own and fights back against a world that will continuously try to knock her down was so beautifully done.
Bryar, our MMC, is the perfect man😭🫡 her captain of the guard, her bodyguard, a long lost lover, the most loyal down BAD man you could ever dream up. He’s killer in a fight, he’s funny, SASSY, and loves our queen like she should be. I love him, and I’m not usually one for second chance romances or friends to lovers (sorry, I’m such an enemies to lover girlie🥲) BUT DAMNIT THESE TWO MADE ME EAT MY WORDS. I’ll read about them falling in love over and over again.
The world itself is very fun and intriguing. The magic system is well thought out and easy to read through, but keeps you entertained. The secrets, the twists and turns, the EMOTIONS. This debut book is definitely not one you will want to miss, Kier writes so beautifully and in a way that makes you feel so connected to each and every single character (so obviously you will cry, my only warning haha). The political strife that we left off on will make the second book just as interesting and I cannot wait!!
February 21, 2025
✨ARC REVIEW✨ Available May 17, 2025
5⭐️ THIS BOOK IS FOR ALL THE GIRLIES OUT THERE!! This one is for all the women who have been told time and time again that they aren’t capable of doing something simply because they are a girl. This one if for all the women who have been told to step aside because a man can do the job better. This one is for all the women who just read that and said “fuck that I can do anything a man can do and do it better.”
Our FMC Myla is that woman. She is a MF Queen and the men in her kingdom still look down upon her. But she is able to go on this journey of self-growth and worth and say enough is enough. She is capable of all these things and I can do it better than anybody (and still look hot while doing it). Our feminine rage is on 100 in this book and I fully support it!
Along this journey she is also rediscovering a childhood love with our MMC Bryar (who is now captain of the kings guard). & lemme just say this man is EVERYTHING!! 🔥🔥
This story had me going to through it with every emotion (cry count: 4). The story is a quest to end a curse that is plaguing their kingdom. With magic, mythical creatures, an awesome found family, lots of banter, some touch her and die moments and plenty of spice 😉. I was hooked from page 1!
Thank you Kier for the ARC! Can’t wait for the next one!
5⭐️ THIS BOOK IS FOR ALL THE GIRLIES OUT THERE!! This one is for all the women who have been told time and time again that they aren’t capable of doing something simply because they are a girl. This one if for all the women who have been told to step aside because a man can do the job better. This one is for all the women who just read that and said “fuck that I can do anything a man can do and do it better.”
Our FMC Myla is that woman. She is a MF Queen and the men in her kingdom still look down upon her. But she is able to go on this journey of self-growth and worth and say enough is enough. She is capable of all these things and I can do it better than anybody (and still look hot while doing it). Our feminine rage is on 100 in this book and I fully support it!
Along this journey she is also rediscovering a childhood love with our MMC Bryar (who is now captain of the kings guard). & lemme just say this man is EVERYTHING!! 🔥🔥
This story had me going to through it with every emotion (cry count: 4). The story is a quest to end a curse that is plaguing their kingdom. With magic, mythical creatures, an awesome found family, lots of banter, some touch her and die moments and plenty of spice 😉. I was hooked from page 1!
Thank you Kier for the ARC! Can’t wait for the next one!
June 20, 2025
Out of the gate, Keir Smelcer knocked this debut book out of the park!! It has magic, royal courts, romance with some spice, armies fighting, men telling a woman in charge what to do (when she knows better), and one heck of a secret she’s been keeping hidden.
Myla is our incredibly strong FMC. She didn’t ask for this life, but it is the one she was told she must follow. She has been honorable and has been doing all that she can. However, hiding a secret is proving to be more draining than anticipated, and leaves her defenses down. This has made trying to break the curse that the despicable fallen fae god, Vesperian, has put on her.
With her childhood friend, protector, and very handsome Captain of her army, Bryar, at her side they will fight with everything they have. To fight for the kingdom, break the curse, and protect the secret that could put them all in even more danger. He is determined to ensure she is safe, but gods does she make his job difficult sometimes. He will discover a secret of his own along the way. Together they learn that the journey brings them new discoveries, found family, and that a mom with a bunch of kiddos running around appreciates someone checking in on her. She also give pretty good advice.
I could not put this book down. The action and tension just keeps going, so one more chapter ended up being me staying up until the wee hours of the morning to finish the book. One of the biggest take aways for me is that doing things to protect those you care about can look a lot like you’ve lost your mind to other people. Do it anyway, and say what needs to be said.
Thank you to Keir for trusting me to be one of your ravens (part of the street team) and giving me the opportunity to read the ARC. Handing your baby over to a group of people you don’t know can be scary, yet you encourage us to be honest with feedback and reviews. My feedback? When is the next book? ;)
Myla is our incredibly strong FMC. She didn’t ask for this life, but it is the one she was told she must follow. She has been honorable and has been doing all that she can. However, hiding a secret is proving to be more draining than anticipated, and leaves her defenses down. This has made trying to break the curse that the despicable fallen fae god, Vesperian, has put on her.
With her childhood friend, protector, and very handsome Captain of her army, Bryar, at her side they will fight with everything they have. To fight for the kingdom, break the curse, and protect the secret that could put them all in even more danger. He is determined to ensure she is safe, but gods does she make his job difficult sometimes. He will discover a secret of his own along the way. Together they learn that the journey brings them new discoveries, found family, and that a mom with a bunch of kiddos running around appreciates someone checking in on her. She also give pretty good advice.
I could not put this book down. The action and tension just keeps going, so one more chapter ended up being me staying up until the wee hours of the morning to finish the book. One of the biggest take aways for me is that doing things to protect those you care about can look a lot like you’ve lost your mind to other people. Do it anyway, and say what needs to be said.
Thank you to Keir for trusting me to be one of your ravens (part of the street team) and giving me the opportunity to read the ARC. Handing your baby over to a group of people you don’t know can be scary, yet you encourage us to be honest with feedback and reviews. My feedback? When is the next book? ;)
May 7, 2025
[ARC REVIEW]
I've finally come back with the full review. Unfortunately I did drop my initial rating from 4 to 2 stars, the longer I sat and thought about A Thousand Burning Ravens the more I felt like I was missing something.
I really wanted to love A Thousand Burning Ravens. I thought there is a lot of potential here but I felt like we were thrown in the middle of a story, like this was book two. I think I was missing the why of it all. I needed more explanation of the world, magic system, and why our (hot) villain is a problem.
I had a tough time connecting with the characters (although I loved Elisa!). I didn’t understand that Myla had magically hit the pause button on her pregnancy and not that folks in this world carry for two years, until it was pretty much spelt out for me 🥴 I got that Myla and Bryar were childhood sweethearts but then their second chance insta-love threw me off.
However! I did enjoy seeing Myla come out of her shell and become the awesome queen she is. I felt like the dialogue/banter between all the characters was really well done and felt organic.
I can totally see how others would eat this up. In the end, it just wasn’t for me. Thank you Kier for allowing me the opportunity to ARC read for you, I’ll keep an eye out for what you do in the future!
I've finally come back with the full review. Unfortunately I did drop my initial rating from 4 to 2 stars, the longer I sat and thought about A Thousand Burning Ravens the more I felt like I was missing something.
I really wanted to love A Thousand Burning Ravens. I thought there is a lot of potential here but I felt like we were thrown in the middle of a story, like this was book two. I think I was missing the why of it all. I needed more explanation of the world, magic system, and why our (hot) villain is a problem.
I had a tough time connecting with the characters (although I loved Elisa!). I didn’t understand that Myla had magically hit the pause button on her pregnancy and not that folks in this world carry for two years, until it was pretty much spelt out for me 🥴 I got that Myla and Bryar were childhood sweethearts but then their second chance insta-love threw me off.
However! I did enjoy seeing Myla come out of her shell and become the awesome queen she is. I felt like the dialogue/banter between all the characters was really well done and felt organic.
I can totally see how others would eat this up. In the end, it just wasn’t for me. Thank you Kier for allowing me the opportunity to ARC read for you, I’ll keep an eye out for what you do in the future!
March 1, 2025
Some stories entertain, but this one consumed me. The FMC’s journey, from a life of control and forced obedience to reclaiming her free will, was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Every moment of her struggle felt raw and real, and I was completely invested in her fight for freedom and love. The emotional depth in her story made every victory and setback hit even harder.
The romance between Myla and Bryar was breathtaking, so intense and deeply felt that I couldn’t help but root for them. Bryar’s presence in her life, despite the suffering he had to witness, made their love story even more powerful. The supporting characters added so much depth, even the ones I loved to hate, because they were written so well. The writing was captivating, keeping me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. This story scratched an itch I didn’t even know I had, and I’m already dying to see what happens next!
The romance between Myla and Bryar was breathtaking, so intense and deeply felt that I couldn’t help but root for them. Bryar’s presence in her life, despite the suffering he had to witness, made their love story even more powerful. The supporting characters added so much depth, even the ones I loved to hate, because they were written so well. The writing was captivating, keeping me on the edge of my seat with every twist and turn. This story scratched an itch I didn’t even know I had, and I’m already dying to see what happens next!
May 24, 2025
✨A Thousand Burning Ravens review✨
🐦⬛🐦⬛🐦⬛
5/5⭐️
Kier Smelcer’s debut had me swooning 🤍 I absolutely adored Myla, our strong fmc. She always stood her ground and I love that. Bryar was the best 🥰 he is the example of the perfect book boyfriend. He loved Myla with a fierceness and it was amazing.
This book made me laugh, made me cry, made me angry. The Queen That Bleeds Stars is my new fave fmc right now. She is not one to be underestimated, especially by so-called ‘powerful men’.
Bryar and Myla fight for their kingdom, all while keeping secrets 🤫 highly recommend this book! Thank you, Kier, for trusting me with your baby!
🗡️Tropes:
Forbidden love 🖤
Slow burn 🌶️
Cinnamon roll mmc 🫠
Magic 🪄
Strong badass fmc 👑
🐦⬛🐦⬛🐦⬛
5/5⭐️
Kier Smelcer’s debut had me swooning 🤍 I absolutely adored Myla, our strong fmc. She always stood her ground and I love that. Bryar was the best 🥰 he is the example of the perfect book boyfriend. He loved Myla with a fierceness and it was amazing.
This book made me laugh, made me cry, made me angry. The Queen That Bleeds Stars is my new fave fmc right now. She is not one to be underestimated, especially by so-called ‘powerful men’.
Bryar and Myla fight for their kingdom, all while keeping secrets 🤫 highly recommend this book! Thank you, Kier, for trusting me with your baby!
🗡️Tropes:
Forbidden love 🖤
Slow burn 🌶️
Cinnamon roll mmc 🫠
Magic 🪄
Strong badass fmc 👑
May 6, 2025
A *thousand burning ravens*? More like a thousand reasons to be obsessed. Kier Smelcer absolutely nailed the dark, atmospheric vibe, with world-building so vivid you can practically feel the embers crackling in the air. And the characters? Messy, complex, and impossible not to love (or fear). Myla, is a force of nature, someone who embodies resilience and defiance in the face of oppression. And Bryar? He’s the emotionally intelligent, rough-around-the-edges heartthrob we all deserve. The found family dynamic hits hard. It's the kind of book that sinks its talons into you and refuses to let go. Can’t wait to see where this story goes!
March 1, 2025
“The truth is, you could kill me, and I would claw my way out of the grave to find you again”
What a beautiful beautiful book!!! It’s rare that you find a book that portrays pregnancy and a mothers love so well. Kier absolutely does just that, while also showing that mothers are strong, powerful and resilient. I’m so glad that my husband is my Bryan, because if not I’d be out searching for a man like him. Talk about emotionally mature! The romance is great, storyline phenomenal and the world building was so well done that I really don’t feel like I needed clarification at any point. This book hit me right in my trauma AND in my motherhood all at the same time. Being pregnant at the same time as reading this book was such an unreal experience. I was actually genuinely sobbing my way through the epilogue. I cannot wait for book two!!
What a beautiful beautiful book!!! It’s rare that you find a book that portrays pregnancy and a mothers love so well. Kier absolutely does just that, while also showing that mothers are strong, powerful and resilient. I’m so glad that my husband is my Bryan, because if not I’d be out searching for a man like him. Talk about emotionally mature! The romance is great, storyline phenomenal and the world building was so well done that I really don’t feel like I needed clarification at any point. This book hit me right in my trauma AND in my motherhood all at the same time. Being pregnant at the same time as reading this book was such an unreal experience. I was actually genuinely sobbing my way through the epilogue. I cannot wait for book two!!
June 25, 2025
What an absolute masterpiece, and I cannot wait to read book 2. I am so so grateful that I received an ARC of this book. I truly had to force myself to put it down to sleep, and once I picked it up again in the morning, I finished 3 hours later. I was on the edge of my seat unable to figure out what would come next and just needing to know. I don’t think I predicted a single thing correctly throughout the book. A truly stunning read for those looking for a plot heavy fantasy with a sprinkle of love.
***UPDATE***
The more time that has passed since reading this, I realized it’s maybe 2.75 starts for me. Initially I got swept up and thought I loved this. But I realized that there were ways I felt kind of let down. There was a lot of “book with a hot villain!” In the promotion, but I feel like we barely even get the villain? I saw another review say that this felt more like a book 2 and that we were missing a lot that happened earlier before this book takes place, and I couldn’t agree more.
***UPDATE***
The more time that has passed since reading this, I realized it’s maybe 2.75 starts for me. Initially I got swept up and thought I loved this. But I realized that there were ways I felt kind of let down. There was a lot of “book with a hot villain!” In the promotion, but I feel like we barely even get the villain? I saw another review say that this felt more like a book 2 and that we were missing a lot that happened earlier before this book takes place, and I couldn’t agree more.
March 23, 2025
ARC read; slight spoilers ahead:
I truly ended up loving this story. It gave me major Throne of Glass vibes, but honestly like you were thrown in at the point of Kingdom of Ash because the feels and the plot are intense.
We meet our FMC Myla as a widowed queen that no one is taking seriously whether it be her family or her council. This woman is coming off the death of the king, the one man with the powers to heal those afflicted by the Blood Stealer who is plaguing their kingdom by taking lives and controlling citizens like zombies. This villain, much like most everyone else in her life, walks in demanding what he wants of her (aka he rules and she’s his queen) and underestimating her.
With her palace in ruins, our favorite MMC and captain of the queen’s guard, Bryar Monroe saves the day by getting her to safety where we can watch their brilliant plans unfold. Myla has managed to conceal and freeze her pregnancy since the king’s death. Meaning an heir with Restorer magic lives.
We follow Myla and Bryar as they gain alliances, harness their own powers, and come to terms with what life can be if they only lean on each other and their friends. We see well deserved healing on Myla’s part and the brilliant queen she can be. And naturally, we end the book with a much earned victory but also a tragic loss. I am so ecstatic for book 2, I honestly cannot stand the wait.
I truly ended up loving this story. It gave me major Throne of Glass vibes, but honestly like you were thrown in at the point of Kingdom of Ash because the feels and the plot are intense.
We meet our FMC Myla as a widowed queen that no one is taking seriously whether it be her family or her council. This woman is coming off the death of the king, the one man with the powers to heal those afflicted by the Blood Stealer who is plaguing their kingdom by taking lives and controlling citizens like zombies. This villain, much like most everyone else in her life, walks in demanding what he wants of her (aka he rules and she’s his queen) and underestimating her.
With her palace in ruins, our favorite MMC and captain of the queen’s guard, Bryar Monroe saves the day by getting her to safety where we can watch their brilliant plans unfold. Myla has managed to conceal and freeze her pregnancy since the king’s death. Meaning an heir with Restorer magic lives.
We follow Myla and Bryar as they gain alliances, harness their own powers, and come to terms with what life can be if they only lean on each other and their friends. We see well deserved healing on Myla’s part and the brilliant queen she can be. And naturally, we end the book with a much earned victory but also a tragic loss. I am so ecstatic for book 2, I honestly cannot stand the wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2025
Thank you to Kier for entrusting me with an early copy!
Slow burn, feminine rage, mother's protectiveness, badass FMC, swoon worthy MMC, bodyguard, unique magic, banter, forbidden love, found family, second chance romance, hidden ancestry
Myla is hiding secrets from her people. From that fateful day two years ago when the evil fae god invaded and beheaded her husband and king, he also linked himself to her with magic. He can control her. And it is getting worse. Now he is here and trying to get her to marry him. Can she get convince him she is giving in long enough to be his undoing? Meanwhile, will this destroy any lingering feelings her first love has for her as he has to stand by and watch? And can she keep her unborn child (who she has been able to keep from growing with her magic) a secret?
I enjoyed Myla coming into her own after being held back and abused by her father and past husband! Though she has doubts she breaks through and jumps into ruling (and loving) on her own terms. We also get a second chance romance budding despite many obstacles in their way and Bryar is such a cinnamon roll protector. I don't usually like pregnancy as a trope but this was an interesting spin on it that ended up with me not minding it!
Slow burn, feminine rage, mother's protectiveness, badass FMC, swoon worthy MMC, bodyguard, unique magic, banter, forbidden love, found family, second chance romance, hidden ancestry
Myla is hiding secrets from her people. From that fateful day two years ago when the evil fae god invaded and beheaded her husband and king, he also linked himself to her with magic. He can control her. And it is getting worse. Now he is here and trying to get her to marry him. Can she get convince him she is giving in long enough to be his undoing? Meanwhile, will this destroy any lingering feelings her first love has for her as he has to stand by and watch? And can she keep her unborn child (who she has been able to keep from growing with her magic) a secret?
I enjoyed Myla coming into her own after being held back and abused by her father and past husband! Though she has doubts she breaks through and jumps into ruling (and loving) on her own terms. We also get a second chance romance budding despite many obstacles in their way and Bryar is such a cinnamon roll protector. I don't usually like pregnancy as a trope but this was an interesting spin on it that ended up with me not minding it!
January 1, 2026
4.5 stars. While there were some bits of awkwardness, as one would expect from a debut author, I was honestly so surprised at how good Smelcer’s writing was in her first novel. The descriptive language was well done and I was just impressed at how evocative it all was. I also was pleasantly surprised at just how very original this story was. Having read my fair share of romantasy, this book was so unique, with its world-building and plot. The magic system and world here was grounded enough in what has come before that it was not confusing to follow along with, while still having its own original touches. And man, it was pretty cool to have a story that focuses upon a widowed and pregnant queen who must face a terrible foe, defending both her unborn child and her kingdom.
Speaking of said queen, Myla is an extremely well-created main character. She is powerful, both from her magic and her training in combat, making her one badass monarch. She is surrounded by other great characters as well, from her friends to her romantic interest, Bryar. And boy, is Bryar down bad. I think any woman would swoon at the declarations of love that he lays at Myla’s feet and the way he does everything for her. They make a great pair and I was glad with how their relationship developed.
Speaking of said queen, Myla is an extremely well-created main character. She is powerful, both from her magic and her training in combat, making her one badass monarch. She is surrounded by other great characters as well, from her friends to her romantic interest, Bryar. And boy, is Bryar down bad. I think any woman would swoon at the declarations of love that he lays at Myla’s feet and the way he does everything for her. They make a great pair and I was glad with how their relationship developed.
January 10, 2026
I did not know what I was getting myself into. I was not ready. I am glad I did not read any reviews before I dived in because coming off this book left me raw and curious.
I was chosen as an ARC for Scars of a Raven Queen, book 2 of The Queen Who Bleeds Stars, so I had to read this one first. I say had to, and if I had any inkling of the talent that rested between these pages I would not have needed to be convinced.
I spent the whole book feeling what Myla felt, seeing through her eyes and wanting so badly for things to be different for her. Throughout the book I felt like I was her but also a dear friend, wanting everything to be alright.
So many of the FMCs I have read come from hard backgrounds, poor, underprivileged, or noble and rich and spoilt, the former getting a boost in society, the later a redemption arc. Myla is neither, you soon see that the privilege she has is a heavy chain, not a golden crown. She has been through so much and as you make your way through this book you discovery really how much she has suffered. This makes it easy to love her, to care for her, to hurt for her.
The magic and the setting are dark, but this book may be the darkest I have read, as it really shows how hard women need to fall for their feminine rage to take over all.
I was chosen as an ARC for Scars of a Raven Queen, book 2 of The Queen Who Bleeds Stars, so I had to read this one first. I say had to, and if I had any inkling of the talent that rested between these pages I would not have needed to be convinced.
I spent the whole book feeling what Myla felt, seeing through her eyes and wanting so badly for things to be different for her. Throughout the book I felt like I was her but also a dear friend, wanting everything to be alright.
So many of the FMCs I have read come from hard backgrounds, poor, underprivileged, or noble and rich and spoilt, the former getting a boost in society, the later a redemption arc. Myla is neither, you soon see that the privilege she has is a heavy chain, not a golden crown. She has been through so much and as you make your way through this book you discovery really how much she has suffered. This makes it easy to love her, to care for her, to hurt for her.
The magic and the setting are dark, but this book may be the darkest I have read, as it really shows how hard women need to fall for their feminine rage to take over all.
February 21, 2025
From the dedication all the way to “The End.” on the last page; Kier captured my attention. I’ve been on a rollercoaster of emotions the entire time. Myla’s journey of self-discovery and growth is probably the most stunning one I’ve read in a long time. She starts off as a woman chosen for a role she does not want, a life she had to leave behind in order to please her parents and the kingdom and she ends it a Queen. A literal fucking Queen. Someone who WILL choose her own path and will not be controlled by men who look to her as a pawn & womb for an heir. Her trials and tribulations rip a hole in your heart but her strength and determination leave you in awe. I caught myself fist pumping and screaming “YAAAS QUEEN” multiple times.
Though she doesn’t journey alone, the characters of ATBR are supportive and willing to die for her and that’s so beautiful to me. Elsa became my favorite the very moment she opened her mouth. She’s witty, funny, dirty as hell and the most loyal friend. And Bryar? pfft, don’t get me started on that fine ass man. He says the most swoony things. The tension between Myla and Bryar is so intense, you can FEEL the longing and heartbreak between the two, it had me in tears a couple times.
The feminine rage is real in this story and I don’t think it could come at a better time. I gave ATBR 5 stars because while it’s not just an amazing romantasy, the things you take away from it are even more powerful than the story. I could learn a thing or two from Myla, a lot of us could.
Though she doesn’t journey alone, the characters of ATBR are supportive and willing to die for her and that’s so beautiful to me. Elsa became my favorite the very moment she opened her mouth. She’s witty, funny, dirty as hell and the most loyal friend. And Bryar? pfft, don’t get me started on that fine ass man. He says the most swoony things. The tension between Myla and Bryar is so intense, you can FEEL the longing and heartbreak between the two, it had me in tears a couple times.
The feminine rage is real in this story and I don’t think it could come at a better time. I gave ATBR 5 stars because while it’s not just an amazing romantasy, the things you take away from it are even more powerful than the story. I could learn a thing or two from Myla, a lot of us could.
May 22, 2025
Review update!!
This. Was. Incredible. This was a five-star read for me, absolutely. Myla is a fierce Queen with a huge heart. She has suffered so much yet has strength she didn't realise. My heart ached for her so much and I wanted so much good for her and willed her on.
"If I have to die screaming, I will; if only to meet my death with every single soul here knowing, I did not go willingly."
"I have many regrets in my life, but I never have and never could regret you."
Bryar, the bodyguard, is a character we would all dream of as our protector...then fall hopelessly for!
And the two of them together, Bryar protecting Myla, are main characters that I fell in love with, eternally wishing for everything to go right for them in every possible way..iykyk.
The range of side characters, I also fell in love with - Elsa, Rhyland, Callum. The Ashborn? I wanted to be one, living in a tree house and possessing the magic that they have. Who wouldn't?
Then there's Vesperian..smooth, enticing, but ultimately villainous, cursing Myla and well, just making you want him dead.
This book has an epic fantasy feel with romantasy mixed in...and a fair portion of angst and trauma. The world building is rich and exactly what I love in a fantasy, and the writing flows beautifully, which meant that I devoured this book whenever I got a spare moment to read. It's the kind of book that could be happily devoured in one sitting. It has political intrigue, action, epic battles, emotional highs and lows, and heartbreak. SO GOOD! I am excited to see what comes next..
I can't recommend it enough for fans of Romantasy, characters you fall in love with OR villains you love to hate, emotional damage, political undercurrents and epic battles. Basically if you're a fan of an addictive story, you'll love it!
I
This. Was. Incredible. This was a five-star read for me, absolutely. Myla is a fierce Queen with a huge heart. She has suffered so much yet has strength she didn't realise. My heart ached for her so much and I wanted so much good for her and willed her on.
"If I have to die screaming, I will; if only to meet my death with every single soul here knowing, I did not go willingly."
"I have many regrets in my life, but I never have and never could regret you."
Bryar, the bodyguard, is a character we would all dream of as our protector...then fall hopelessly for!
And the two of them together, Bryar protecting Myla, are main characters that I fell in love with, eternally wishing for everything to go right for them in every possible way..iykyk.
The range of side characters, I also fell in love with - Elsa, Rhyland, Callum. The Ashborn? I wanted to be one, living in a tree house and possessing the magic that they have. Who wouldn't?
Then there's Vesperian..smooth, enticing, but ultimately villainous, cursing Myla and well, just making you want him dead.
This book has an epic fantasy feel with romantasy mixed in...and a fair portion of angst and trauma. The world building is rich and exactly what I love in a fantasy, and the writing flows beautifully, which meant that I devoured this book whenever I got a spare moment to read. It's the kind of book that could be happily devoured in one sitting. It has political intrigue, action, epic battles, emotional highs and lows, and heartbreak. SO GOOD! I am excited to see what comes next..
I can't recommend it enough for fans of Romantasy, characters you fall in love with OR villains you love to hate, emotional damage, political undercurrents and epic battles. Basically if you're a fan of an addictive story, you'll love it!
I
March 14, 2025
Such an amazing and unique fantasy read! If you’re looking for a powerful FMC that learns how to stand up for herself against men, then ATBR is the book for you! Myla goes through SO MUCH and to read her journey was truly inspiring.
Bryar is pretty different than the MMCs I typically read about, and I think that’s what makes me like him so much. He is so incredibly patient with Myla, and quietly yearns for her for years in secret. Their relationship growth was definitely more of a relatable experience than most romance plots!
Lastly, Kier, the way you described your world and everything within this book was like you were painting a picture. Truly so in depth and beautiful writing!
Bryar is pretty different than the MMCs I typically read about, and I think that’s what makes me like him so much. He is so incredibly patient with Myla, and quietly yearns for her for years in secret. Their relationship growth was definitely more of a relatable experience than most romance plots!
Lastly, Kier, the way you described your world and everything within this book was like you were painting a picture. Truly so in depth and beautiful writing!
April 3, 2025
❤️ARC reader review❤️
I was lucky to be allowed to read this on the ARC team and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Myla was forced into a life she wouldn't have chosen for herself, made to exist for her husband's needs, and then finds herself in a position where she has to shed that mantle and find her own voice in a tumultuous future. The love that she finally allows herself to feel and receive mends her soul, and that inner fire she knew she had allows her to protect her found family.
This had slow burn, feminine rage, and her magic reminded me of Confessor Kahlan in the Sword of Truth series. I cannot Wait for the next book!
I was lucky to be allowed to read this on the ARC team and thoroughly enjoyed the story.
Myla was forced into a life she wouldn't have chosen for herself, made to exist for her husband's needs, and then finds herself in a position where she has to shed that mantle and find her own voice in a tumultuous future. The love that she finally allows herself to feel and receive mends her soul, and that inner fire she knew she had allows her to protect her found family.
This had slow burn, feminine rage, and her magic reminded me of Confessor Kahlan in the Sword of Truth series. I cannot Wait for the next book!
April 2, 2025
I am absolutely gasping and blown so far away that my emotions have all been touched by characters I feel I know or that I myself harness within.
Myla is the widowed Queen who has felt nothing but suppressed, underestimated and delegated her whole life once betrothed to the Restorer. Now her Kingdom is threatened by the Blood Stealer and Myla has to discover what she decides to do on so many levels.
Her internal discovery along with her connection to the God's are guides in her path. (Don't want to give spoilers)
I am blown away by this phenomenal read as it integrates world building, deep emotion, enticing thought processes and the whimsical world of magic and friendship. I am so grateful to have been able to ARC this amazing book. ✨️📚✨️
Myla is the widowed Queen who has felt nothing but suppressed, underestimated and delegated her whole life once betrothed to the Restorer. Now her Kingdom is threatened by the Blood Stealer and Myla has to discover what she decides to do on so many levels.
Her internal discovery along with her connection to the God's are guides in her path. (Don't want to give spoilers)
I am blown away by this phenomenal read as it integrates world building, deep emotion, enticing thought processes and the whimsical world of magic and friendship. I am so grateful to have been able to ARC this amazing book. ✨️📚✨️
April 30, 2025
Romantasy and feminine rage like you’ve never read it before, A Thousand Burning Ravens is a truly unique story and an easy 5 star recommendation.
Following Myla, who became a queen out of duty and has put her people before herself ever since. Watching her grow into her character and let go of the need to walk the line of everyone elses expectations was inspiring. This slow burn second chance romance had me swooning and kicking my feet rooting for the MMC so hard. Until this book, I’d never met a hot villain I didn’t want to win. I laughed, I cried, I screamed, I cursed Kier for writing a story that was so easy to get lost in and so difficult to let go of at the end, the emotional DEVASTATION and pride I felt were warring with each other as I recovered from the explosive ending of this book.
Without giving away too much I just have to commend the author for the real and raw way she was able to capture womanhood, grief, motherhood, and the weight of societies expectations in such a powerful way. I cannot recommend it enough and I’m forever grateful for having gotten the opportunity to read it early.
Following Myla, who became a queen out of duty and has put her people before herself ever since. Watching her grow into her character and let go of the need to walk the line of everyone elses expectations was inspiring. This slow burn second chance romance had me swooning and kicking my feet rooting for the MMC so hard. Until this book, I’d never met a hot villain I didn’t want to win. I laughed, I cried, I screamed, I cursed Kier for writing a story that was so easy to get lost in and so difficult to let go of at the end, the emotional DEVASTATION and pride I felt were warring with each other as I recovered from the explosive ending of this book.
Without giving away too much I just have to commend the author for the real and raw way she was able to capture womanhood, grief, motherhood, and the weight of societies expectations in such a powerful way. I cannot recommend it enough and I’m forever grateful for having gotten the opportunity to read it early.
April 7, 2025
6 Stars Out of 5 – A New Standard Has Been Set for me!
A Thousand Burning Ravens by Kier Smelcer didn’t just hit every note, it practically sang to me. I’m over here giving it heart eyes and holding it close like it’s the last warm drink on a cold night. This book broke the scale for me. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. Consider it a 6-star masterpiece.
Let’s talk about Myla... The Queen Who Bleeds Stars. She is the definition of strength. Not just in her magic (which, trust me, is epic), but in her will, her sacrifice, her sheer force of character. A widowed queen, terrified but unflinching, ready to do whatever it takes to protect her people. Even if that means marrying, not for love, but to secure the strongest bloodline and keep the kingdom from crumbling. When the king, the last hope of fulfilling the prophecy to free them from the terror of the blood stealer, is taken by the very enemy he was meant to defeat, Myla doesn't falter. She rises.
Enter Bryar, captain of the guard and her true love. The way he steps back out of duty, heartbroken and loyal? Gut-wrenching. Beautiful. He is so well written, with every word and action full of quiet strength. I felt him. He is the kind of character that lingers after the final page.
And then there’s Vesperian, our blood stealer villain. Oof. Kier Smelcer wrote him with that perfectly dangerous charm. Seductive when he needs to be, utterly vile when he wants to be. I hated him. I loved hating him. That’s talent.
Even the side characters had substance. While they didn’t steal the spotlight, they still stood strong. Lenore especially? Chef’s kiss. She spoke her mind without apology and had me laughing at her blunt honesty.
The pacing? Impeccable. From the prologue to the final epilogue, I was hooked. I cursed sleep. I ignored responsibilities. Everything flowed... from the tension-building moments to the action-packed scenes to those quiet, aching beats of emotion. It was all so well-orchestrated.
The world-building was another gem. Every location felt rich and real. Each scene had depth, and I can’t wait to see it expand in future books. The lore is layered and immersive, and the magic system had just enough innovation to make it feel both familiar and fresh—with a grandeur that elevated it even more.
I honestly don’t know if this book struck the exact right chord for my current mood or if it’s just that incredible, but either way, it’s a new benchmark for me. I can’t praise it enough. If you’re looking for a fantasy with heart, tension, romance, power, and soul, look no further. A Thousand Burning Ravens isn’t just a read, it’s an experience.
A Thousand Burning Ravens by Kier Smelcer didn’t just hit every note, it practically sang to me. I’m over here giving it heart eyes and holding it close like it’s the last warm drink on a cold night. This book broke the scale for me. If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would. Consider it a 6-star masterpiece.
Let’s talk about Myla... The Queen Who Bleeds Stars. She is the definition of strength. Not just in her magic (which, trust me, is epic), but in her will, her sacrifice, her sheer force of character. A widowed queen, terrified but unflinching, ready to do whatever it takes to protect her people. Even if that means marrying, not for love, but to secure the strongest bloodline and keep the kingdom from crumbling. When the king, the last hope of fulfilling the prophecy to free them from the terror of the blood stealer, is taken by the very enemy he was meant to defeat, Myla doesn't falter. She rises.
Enter Bryar, captain of the guard and her true love. The way he steps back out of duty, heartbroken and loyal? Gut-wrenching. Beautiful. He is so well written, with every word and action full of quiet strength. I felt him. He is the kind of character that lingers after the final page.
And then there’s Vesperian, our blood stealer villain. Oof. Kier Smelcer wrote him with that perfectly dangerous charm. Seductive when he needs to be, utterly vile when he wants to be. I hated him. I loved hating him. That’s talent.
Even the side characters had substance. While they didn’t steal the spotlight, they still stood strong. Lenore especially? Chef’s kiss. She spoke her mind without apology and had me laughing at her blunt honesty.
The pacing? Impeccable. From the prologue to the final epilogue, I was hooked. I cursed sleep. I ignored responsibilities. Everything flowed... from the tension-building moments to the action-packed scenes to those quiet, aching beats of emotion. It was all so well-orchestrated.
The world-building was another gem. Every location felt rich and real. Each scene had depth, and I can’t wait to see it expand in future books. The lore is layered and immersive, and the magic system had just enough innovation to make it feel both familiar and fresh—with a grandeur that elevated it even more.
I honestly don’t know if this book struck the exact right chord for my current mood or if it’s just that incredible, but either way, it’s a new benchmark for me. I can’t praise it enough. If you’re looking for a fantasy with heart, tension, romance, power, and soul, look no further. A Thousand Burning Ravens isn’t just a read, it’s an experience.
May 5, 2025
“DAMN IT, KIER—I’M CRYING AGAIN.” That’s pretty much what I kept telling Kier during my whole read. This book absolutely 𝘸𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 me in the best way possible. ATBR isn’t just a story; it’s an experience. It’s raw, emotional, and so damn 𝘙𝘌𝘈𝘓.
This is the kind of book that will touch so many hearts, especially women who need that reminder; you can heal, and you don’t have to do it alone. The message behind this book is so powerful, and you can feel that Kier wrote it with her whole heart.
And let’s talk about the romance—this is a TRUE forbidden love (IMO) at its most painful and heartbreaking. I felt everything for these characters, and I still haven’t recovered. One minute, I was crying for them, and the next, I was dying laughing at the little moments of humor that was snuck in. (I absolutely LOVED Myla’s inner dialogue)
This story has 𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙍𝙔𝙏𝙃𝙄𝙉𝙂—slow burn, second chances, a protective bodyguard, a curse to break, found family (you will LOVE), and a hot villain? I’m obsessed.
This book is going to stay with me for a long time. It’s devastating and beautiful and so full of hope. Kier, you’re making a difference more than you know.
This is the kind of book that will touch so many hearts, especially women who need that reminder; you can heal, and you don’t have to do it alone. The message behind this book is so powerful, and you can feel that Kier wrote it with her whole heart.
And let’s talk about the romance—this is a TRUE forbidden love (IMO) at its most painful and heartbreaking. I felt everything for these characters, and I still haven’t recovered. One minute, I was crying for them, and the next, I was dying laughing at the little moments of humor that was snuck in. (I absolutely LOVED Myla’s inner dialogue)
This story has 𝙀𝙑𝙀𝙍𝙔𝙏𝙃𝙄𝙉𝙂—slow burn, second chances, a protective bodyguard, a curse to break, found family (you will LOVE), and a hot villain? I’m obsessed.
This book is going to stay with me for a long time. It’s devastating and beautiful and so full of hope. Kier, you’re making a difference more than you know.
May 19, 2025
A Thousand Burning Ravens | Kier Smelcer
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
Am I going to forever call 2025, the year of the burning raven? Uh yes, yes I am. I just finished Kier Smelcer's "A Thousand Burning Ravens" and my romantasy-loving heart is SOARING.
This book isn't just another fantasy with romantic elements - it's a soul-stirring masterpiece that had me clutching my chest, screaming into pillows, and texting my bookish ghouls at 3AM with all-caps messages they definitely didn't appreciate. 😂
In the aftermath of royal bloodshed, Queen Myla finds herself reluctantly wearing a crown never meant for her head. She's suddenly caught in a treacherous web facing Vesperian Shayd, the vengeful fallen fae god demanding his stolen blood oath, power-hungry council members plotting to snatch her throne and the weight of an ancient prophecy guiding her toward an unforeseen fate.
With her childhood friend and first love turned Captain of her army, Bryar at her side, they will fight with everything they have to protect not only the kingdom, but also the secret growing within Myla (a secret that could change everything). This journey unfolds into something far beyond court politics; it becomes a desperate race against destiny itself. Imagine the most exquisite blend of court intrigue, heart-wrenching romance, and magical worldbuilding that doesn't just transport you - it ENGULFS you. ❤️🔥
Myla isn't just a queen - she's EVERY WOMAN who has ever been underestimated, silenced, or abused. If you’re like me, you’ll find Myla’s journey from grief to empowerment so compelling that you’ll be trying to raise your own raven banners in unwavering support of our girl. The way she carves out her own happiness despite everything thrown at her is a testament to the unbridled and unapologetic strength found within us all when we’re allowed to live as our true selves. 🪞
And don’t you dare get me talking about my Bryar boo. This is what we’re talking about when we discuss the female gaze: emotionally intelligent? CHECK. Fiercely protective without being possessive? CHECK. Stands by his woman through literal hell? MAJOR CHECK. Kier, you might have ruined any chance I have of falling for other men (fictional or not).
Smelcer's storytelling is MAGNIFICENT. I adored the magic system and how it unfolds with such breathtaking originality, offering an experience that feels both ancient and fresh. The emotional beats landed with such precision that I felt physically panged by this story and you can check my tear stains for proof.
Tropes, baby!
🔥Slow burn that is WORTH THE WAIT
🗡️ Bodyguard/Touch her and die
😈 Hot villain (uh oh)
🏡 Found family that will make you WEEP
😡 Female Rage
🐦🔥 Mythical creatures
⛓️💥Quest to break a curse
Damn, this book is THERAPY in fantasy form. I laughed, I ugly-cried multiple times, and I came out feeling seen in ways I never expected from a fantasy novel. Romantasy girlies, THIS IS YOUR NEXT OBSESSION. Trust me when I say Kier Smelcer has delivered an absolute triumph that deserves all your hype AND all of your shelf space. 📖
Thank you to Kier Smelcer for the opportunity to read and rave about this incredible book. I'll be with the other feral ghouls hyperventilating until book 2.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
Am I going to forever call 2025, the year of the burning raven? Uh yes, yes I am. I just finished Kier Smelcer's "A Thousand Burning Ravens" and my romantasy-loving heart is SOARING.
This book isn't just another fantasy with romantic elements - it's a soul-stirring masterpiece that had me clutching my chest, screaming into pillows, and texting my bookish ghouls at 3AM with all-caps messages they definitely didn't appreciate. 😂
In the aftermath of royal bloodshed, Queen Myla finds herself reluctantly wearing a crown never meant for her head. She's suddenly caught in a treacherous web facing Vesperian Shayd, the vengeful fallen fae god demanding his stolen blood oath, power-hungry council members plotting to snatch her throne and the weight of an ancient prophecy guiding her toward an unforeseen fate.
With her childhood friend and first love turned Captain of her army, Bryar at her side, they will fight with everything they have to protect not only the kingdom, but also the secret growing within Myla (a secret that could change everything). This journey unfolds into something far beyond court politics; it becomes a desperate race against destiny itself. Imagine the most exquisite blend of court intrigue, heart-wrenching romance, and magical worldbuilding that doesn't just transport you - it ENGULFS you. ❤️🔥
Myla isn't just a queen - she's EVERY WOMAN who has ever been underestimated, silenced, or abused. If you’re like me, you’ll find Myla’s journey from grief to empowerment so compelling that you’ll be trying to raise your own raven banners in unwavering support of our girl. The way she carves out her own happiness despite everything thrown at her is a testament to the unbridled and unapologetic strength found within us all when we’re allowed to live as our true selves. 🪞
And don’t you dare get me talking about my Bryar boo. This is what we’re talking about when we discuss the female gaze: emotionally intelligent? CHECK. Fiercely protective without being possessive? CHECK. Stands by his woman through literal hell? MAJOR CHECK. Kier, you might have ruined any chance I have of falling for other men (fictional or not).
Smelcer's storytelling is MAGNIFICENT. I adored the magic system and how it unfolds with such breathtaking originality, offering an experience that feels both ancient and fresh. The emotional beats landed with such precision that I felt physically panged by this story and you can check my tear stains for proof.
Tropes, baby!
🔥Slow burn that is WORTH THE WAIT
🗡️ Bodyguard/Touch her and die
😈 Hot villain (uh oh)
🏡 Found family that will make you WEEP
😡 Female Rage
🐦🔥 Mythical creatures
⛓️💥Quest to break a curse
Damn, this book is THERAPY in fantasy form. I laughed, I ugly-cried multiple times, and I came out feeling seen in ways I never expected from a fantasy novel. Romantasy girlies, THIS IS YOUR NEXT OBSESSION. Trust me when I say Kier Smelcer has delivered an absolute triumph that deserves all your hype AND all of your shelf space. 📖
Thank you to Kier Smelcer for the opportunity to read and rave about this incredible book. I'll be with the other feral ghouls hyperventilating until book 2.
April 15, 2025
Fantasy romance can sometimes feel like a copy-paste of the last five books you read—but A Thousand Burning Ravens is a breath of fresh, fiery air. It introduces magical elements I haven’t seen before and characters that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Let’s start with Myla, our main heroine, starts off timid—honestly, a little frustrating—but her character growth is one of the most rewarding arcs I’ve read in a while. By the end, she fully earns that queen title. She’s fierce, grounded, and someone I genuinely admired. And that name—The Queen Who Bleeds Stars. What a title to give a character, right? Kier does an amazing job writing complex characters. They weren’t just there to prop up the romance or drive the plot—they had depth, nuance, and sometimes even made choices that made me go, Wait, what?! And I loved that. It kept me invested. The romance between Myla and Bryar? Chef’s kiss. Their chemistry sizzled, but what really got me was Bryar’s emotional depth. He’s not your typical broody male lead—he’s vulnerable, respectful, and honestly? Total green flag material. Multifaceted and deliciously swoon-worthy. One of the standout elements for me was how Kier wove motherhood into Myla’s journey. That’s something you almost never see in fantasy—most female leads are conveniently barren or it’s just glossed over. But here? It’s raw, real, and adds such a powerful layer to Myla’s story. It made her feel even more human. Now, let’s talk villains. The Blood Stealer? Utterly chilling. His manipulation of Myla was both fascinating and maddening. I felt the tension in every scene he was in and genuinely wanted to fight him myself. An absolutely unforgettable antagonist. And yes—it’s a solid five stars from me. The story, the characters, the emotional weight—it all hit. That said, there were a few elements I’m really hoping get explored more deeply in book two. The magic system is so unique, and I’d love to learn more about how it works—especially for side characters like Elsa, Callum, and Rhyland. I also found myself craving more backstory around Myla’s parents. There are threads there that feel like they’re just waiting to be pulled—and I cannot wait to see where Kier takes them next.
Huge thanks to Kier for the ARC—what a ride. I’m fully in for the rest of this journey.
Let’s start with Myla, our main heroine, starts off timid—honestly, a little frustrating—but her character growth is one of the most rewarding arcs I’ve read in a while. By the end, she fully earns that queen title. She’s fierce, grounded, and someone I genuinely admired. And that name—The Queen Who Bleeds Stars. What a title to give a character, right? Kier does an amazing job writing complex characters. They weren’t just there to prop up the romance or drive the plot—they had depth, nuance, and sometimes even made choices that made me go, Wait, what?! And I loved that. It kept me invested. The romance between Myla and Bryar? Chef’s kiss. Their chemistry sizzled, but what really got me was Bryar’s emotional depth. He’s not your typical broody male lead—he’s vulnerable, respectful, and honestly? Total green flag material. Multifaceted and deliciously swoon-worthy. One of the standout elements for me was how Kier wove motherhood into Myla’s journey. That’s something you almost never see in fantasy—most female leads are conveniently barren or it’s just glossed over. But here? It’s raw, real, and adds such a powerful layer to Myla’s story. It made her feel even more human. Now, let’s talk villains. The Blood Stealer? Utterly chilling. His manipulation of Myla was both fascinating and maddening. I felt the tension in every scene he was in and genuinely wanted to fight him myself. An absolutely unforgettable antagonist. And yes—it’s a solid five stars from me. The story, the characters, the emotional weight—it all hit. That said, there were a few elements I’m really hoping get explored more deeply in book two. The magic system is so unique, and I’d love to learn more about how it works—especially for side characters like Elsa, Callum, and Rhyland. I also found myself craving more backstory around Myla’s parents. There are threads there that feel like they’re just waiting to be pulled—and I cannot wait to see where Kier takes them next.
Huge thanks to Kier for the ARC—what a ride. I’m fully in for the rest of this journey.
August 2, 2025
From the very first page, A Thousand Burning Ravens captivated me with its intricate storytelling, rich emotions, and unforgettable characters. This novel is a masterful blend of heartbreak, resilience, and the unyielding power of love and family.
Kier Smelcer weaves a tapestry filled with twists and turns, immersing readers in a world where grief, joy, and determination are intertwined. The narrative is driven by Myla, whose journey is both harrowing and inspiring. Her relationships, especially with "the safe man, the man who has never hurt her," offer moments of tenderness amidst the chaos, highlighting the complexities of human connections.
The story is not just about personal struggles but also the fate of a kingdom teetering on the brink. Through Myla’s eyes, we witness the weight of leadership and the sacrifices that come with it. Quotes like, "In those most desperate moments, unity is the only way we will defeat the Blood Stealer and live to see a morning in the Seam where the sun does not rise a blood red," capture the essence of hope and camaraderie that permeates the book.
Central themes of fairness, justice, love, hatred, and above all, family, resonate deeply. The portrayal of loss—friends, family, and even fragments of oneself—hits hard, yet it is balanced by moments of triumph and self-discovery. This isn’t just a story of battles and magic; it’s about fighting for what matters most. Myla’s victories, both personal and political, are satisfying and deeply moving. I found myself laughing, crying, and then crying again, as Myla’s resilience shone through each challenge she faced.
The novel also delves into the brutal reality of protecting not just a kingdom but one's own heart and loved ones. The complications Myla encounters are both heart-breaking and relatable, making her victories all the more satisfying.
These words resonate long after you’ve turned the final page.
So, if you’re a fan of emotionally charged, politically intricate tales with a dash of powerful romance, A Thousand Burning Ravens should be at the top of your reading list. Trust us—it’s a must-read!
Kier Smelcer weaves a tapestry filled with twists and turns, immersing readers in a world where grief, joy, and determination are intertwined. The narrative is driven by Myla, whose journey is both harrowing and inspiring. Her relationships, especially with "the safe man, the man who has never hurt her," offer moments of tenderness amidst the chaos, highlighting the complexities of human connections.
The story is not just about personal struggles but also the fate of a kingdom teetering on the brink. Through Myla’s eyes, we witness the weight of leadership and the sacrifices that come with it. Quotes like, "In those most desperate moments, unity is the only way we will defeat the Blood Stealer and live to see a morning in the Seam where the sun does not rise a blood red," capture the essence of hope and camaraderie that permeates the book.
Central themes of fairness, justice, love, hatred, and above all, family, resonate deeply. The portrayal of loss—friends, family, and even fragments of oneself—hits hard, yet it is balanced by moments of triumph and self-discovery. This isn’t just a story of battles and magic; it’s about fighting for what matters most. Myla’s victories, both personal and political, are satisfying and deeply moving. I found myself laughing, crying, and then crying again, as Myla’s resilience shone through each challenge she faced.
The novel also delves into the brutal reality of protecting not just a kingdom but one's own heart and loved ones. The complications Myla encounters are both heart-breaking and relatable, making her victories all the more satisfying.
These words resonate long after you’ve turned the final page.
So, if you’re a fan of emotionally charged, politically intricate tales with a dash of powerful romance, A Thousand Burning Ravens should be at the top of your reading list. Trust us—it’s a must-read!
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