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Muses of Esk
A Reverie of Roses
Her only chance to win a very unwise wager is to create a portrait of an infamous socialite who knows exactly how to get under her skin—and is delighted to be close enough to do so.
Nora made a reckless wager. Now, to save her career as a portraitist, she must paint the one person she never wanted to see again.
The last time she tried to capture Lisette Lacemont on canvas, she was left with an unrequited crush and an unfinished painting. This time, she’s determined to do better. But when a summer storm traps her in a country manor with the flighty socialite, Nora has no escape from Lisette’s flirtations, her sharp tongue, or the way she sees right through her.
Lisette is a challenge, a muse, an endless frustration. And if Nora isn’t careful, she’ll lose more than her wager before the painting is finished.
She’ll lose her heart, a second time.
Nora made a reckless wager. Now, to save her career as a portraitist, she must paint the one person she never wanted to see again.
The last time she tried to capture Lisette Lacemont on canvas, she was left with an unrequited crush and an unfinished painting. This time, she’s determined to do better. But when a summer storm traps her in a country manor with the flighty socialite, Nora has no escape from Lisette’s flirtations, her sharp tongue, or the way she sees right through her.
Lisette is a challenge, a muse, an endless frustration. And if Nora isn’t careful, she’ll lose more than her wager before the painting is finished.
She’ll lose her heart, a second time.
138 pages, Paperback
Published March 10, 2025
11 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
August 23, 2025
3.5★
while cozy and atmospheric with some lush writing, this is definitely on the slower side and i didn't like it as much as the first standalone in this world.
i think the couple did pay off in the end, but i would have liked more going on between them in the first half. i also would like if there were more character descriptions bc i have no idea what anyone looked like besides the two fmc's hair color.
while cozy and atmospheric with some lush writing, this is definitely on the slower side and i didn't like it as much as the first standalone in this world.
i think the couple did pay off in the end, but i would have liked more going on between them in the first half. i also would like if there were more character descriptions bc i have no idea what anyone looked like besides the two fmc's hair color.
January 28, 2026
⭐️4.5⭐️
I NEED MORE
I NEED MORE
March 10, 2025
Every so often I like to read something outside of my usual reem. I found A Reverie of roses on Facebook or should I say it found me through an ad. It sounded interesting so I obviously signed up for an ARC.
Nora accepts a challenge from her friends to paint a subject of their choice. Lisette is who they choose and Nora is set the task of pursuing Lisette to sit for her.
These two have history and more than paint will be split if she’s going to rise to the challenge. Lisette is a strong minded woman and wants Nora to catch her true essence, rather than just putting brush to paper. Can these two get along so Nora can compete her work or will their rift widen the gap between them?
A Reverie of Roses is a heartwarming f/f, sapphic novella with charming characters.
Nora accepts a challenge from her friends to paint a subject of their choice. Lisette is who they choose and Nora is set the task of pursuing Lisette to sit for her.
These two have history and more than paint will be split if she’s going to rise to the challenge. Lisette is a strong minded woman and wants Nora to catch her true essence, rather than just putting brush to paper. Can these two get along so Nora can compete her work or will their rift widen the gap between them?
A Reverie of Roses is a heartwarming f/f, sapphic novella with charming characters.
September 27, 2025
I cannot tell you how beautiful and intriguing I find the writing of this book! The atmosphere, the setting, the whimsy of the world, I just wanna stay in Esk forever!
October 4, 2025
i absolutely LOVED the atmosphere in this novella – all the descriptions of the storm and the overgrown garden were so vivid, they made me long to be at Heron's Rest with all the characters! i just wish the story hadn't ended so quickly; i loved the tension between Nora and Lisette and the development of their relationship, but would've preferred the ending kind of being less rushed than it ended up being
March 14, 2025
“Come, Nora. You cannot stare at me with such hunger for hours and then not even share a handful of words with me.”
This short, sweet novella is filled with witty banter, longing gazes and top notch yearning. A Reverie of Roses is a beautiful book that dips into the complexity of emotions and letting oneself be vulnurable and open and learning the real person behind the facade they put on, or the painting they hide behind.
The banther and yearning was gorgeous in this book! Such a gumpy x sunshine vibe that had me kicking my feet and giggling.
This short, sweet novella is filled with witty banter, longing gazes and top notch yearning. A Reverie of Roses is a beautiful book that dips into the complexity of emotions and letting oneself be vulnurable and open and learning the real person behind the facade they put on, or the painting they hide behind.
The banther and yearning was gorgeous in this book! Such a gumpy x sunshine vibe that had me kicking my feet and giggling.
September 26, 2025
it's like frolicking through a field of flowers naked
March 12, 2025
A REVERIE OF ROSES by Thea Hawthorne
“Nora knows her faults. She knows her weaknesses. And she knows that the is an old break in her defences, the exact size and shape of Lisette Lacemont.”
To save her career, Nora must paint the one woman she swore never to face again—Lisette Lacemont, the flighty socialite who once stole her heart. Trapped in a country manor by a summer storm, she has no escape from Lisette’s sharp wit, relentless flirtations, or the way she sees right through her. Lisette is a challenge, a muse, an irresistible frustration—and if Nora isn’t careful, she might lose more than just her wager.
I genuinely didn’t want A Reverie of Roses to end.
Something I’ve found in Thea Hawthorne’s writing is a voice that feels entirely distinct from anything else. Both this book and The Muse of Missing Pieces offer a glimpse into a much vaster world, one we slowly uncover through passing comments and rich descriptions. The magic system—whispered hints of aether, stormbeasts, and other peculiarities—is light in its involvement, yet I crave to know more. I also love that the country where the story unfolds, Esk, is named after the Esk rivers in Tasmania.
This novella is so atmospheric. It has a taste, a texture, a sound. The descriptions of paintings, colours, and details are so vivid that you can almost reach out and touch them. That’s no surprise, as the author herself is an artist—she designs her own covers and even includes a couple of illustrations in the book.
The romance was positively entrancing. I often struggle with romance in books—the connection, the pacing, the yearning—but this one captured it beautifully. The tension between Nora and Lisette fills the air, their push and pull unfolding with perfect precision. Lisette’s bold flirtations and Nora’s sharp wit create a dynamic that’s as frustrating as it is irresistible. Their history adds an extra layer, contrasting past and present in a way that made their moments together feel all the more poignant.
The setting adds to the magic of it all. There’s a sense of privacy, of intimacy, as if we too are trapped in the manor with them, listening to the rain against the windows. It’s so cozy, it made me feel like drying off in front of a fire after getting soaked in a storm. I was so pulled in that I nearly forgot to get off at my train stop.
Beyond the romance, the book offers a wonderful cast of characters, from Lisette’s friends to her cousin Toby, who make the manor feel like an extended sleepover while the storm rages outside.
Their interactions were delightful, and I’d love to see more of them in future novellas.
At the end of the book, there’s a link to the author’s newsletter, where you can read a brief epilogue that ties everything together even more beautifully. Honestly, everything about this novella—the pacing, the tension, the connection between the leads, the sheer coziness—was breathtaking. Whatever Thea Hawthorne writes next, I will be reading.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
“Nora knows her faults. She knows her weaknesses. And she knows that the is an old break in her defences, the exact size and shape of Lisette Lacemont.”
To save her career, Nora must paint the one woman she swore never to face again—Lisette Lacemont, the flighty socialite who once stole her heart. Trapped in a country manor by a summer storm, she has no escape from Lisette’s sharp wit, relentless flirtations, or the way she sees right through her. Lisette is a challenge, a muse, an irresistible frustration—and if Nora isn’t careful, she might lose more than just her wager.
I genuinely didn’t want A Reverie of Roses to end.
Something I’ve found in Thea Hawthorne’s writing is a voice that feels entirely distinct from anything else. Both this book and The Muse of Missing Pieces offer a glimpse into a much vaster world, one we slowly uncover through passing comments and rich descriptions. The magic system—whispered hints of aether, stormbeasts, and other peculiarities—is light in its involvement, yet I crave to know more. I also love that the country where the story unfolds, Esk, is named after the Esk rivers in Tasmania.
This novella is so atmospheric. It has a taste, a texture, a sound. The descriptions of paintings, colours, and details are so vivid that you can almost reach out and touch them. That’s no surprise, as the author herself is an artist—she designs her own covers and even includes a couple of illustrations in the book.
The romance was positively entrancing. I often struggle with romance in books—the connection, the pacing, the yearning—but this one captured it beautifully. The tension between Nora and Lisette fills the air, their push and pull unfolding with perfect precision. Lisette’s bold flirtations and Nora’s sharp wit create a dynamic that’s as frustrating as it is irresistible. Their history adds an extra layer, contrasting past and present in a way that made their moments together feel all the more poignant.
The setting adds to the magic of it all. There’s a sense of privacy, of intimacy, as if we too are trapped in the manor with them, listening to the rain against the windows. It’s so cozy, it made me feel like drying off in front of a fire after getting soaked in a storm. I was so pulled in that I nearly forgot to get off at my train stop.
Beyond the romance, the book offers a wonderful cast of characters, from Lisette’s friends to her cousin Toby, who make the manor feel like an extended sleepover while the storm rages outside.
Their interactions were delightful, and I’d love to see more of them in future novellas.
At the end of the book, there’s a link to the author’s newsletter, where you can read a brief epilogue that ties everything together even more beautifully. Honestly, everything about this novella—the pacing, the tension, the connection between the leads, the sheer coziness—was breathtaking. Whatever Thea Hawthorne writes next, I will be reading.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
March 7, 2025
"You are a trial, Lisette Lacemont. Ever since you walked out of my studio— [...] That’s the line between my life as a naive painter, thinking a bit of hard work and easy talent would get me where I wanted to be, and my life now, where I know I haven’t near enough talent for hard work to get me anywhere.”
Everyone wants to paint Lissette Lacemont, the notoriously flighty socialite, but nobody succeeds. Nora had her chance two years ago and failed, burning her work and resigning herself to a life of mediocrity.
But now a bet made in anger risks her meagre career. She must paint Lissette, and have her work accepted by the high society Annual or give up all her commissions and face humiliation.
Caught at the Lacemont country estate in the middle of a storm with Lissette and her frivolous friends, Nora must come to terms with what happened two years ago, with her relationship with her art and her relationship with Lissette.
A delightful sapphic romance supported by excellent character study. The yearning, both artistically and romantically suffuses everything.
I would hesitate to call it cozy, if anything it gave me more of a light academia, light gothic vibe. Personally I wanted to see a bit more flirting from Lissette but it was well resolved in the time frame.
Comp to CL Polks Kingston Cycle.
Everyone wants to paint Lissette Lacemont, the notoriously flighty socialite, but nobody succeeds. Nora had her chance two years ago and failed, burning her work and resigning herself to a life of mediocrity.
But now a bet made in anger risks her meagre career. She must paint Lissette, and have her work accepted by the high society Annual or give up all her commissions and face humiliation.
Caught at the Lacemont country estate in the middle of a storm with Lissette and her frivolous friends, Nora must come to terms with what happened two years ago, with her relationship with her art and her relationship with Lissette.
A delightful sapphic romance supported by excellent character study. The yearning, both artistically and romantically suffuses everything.
I would hesitate to call it cozy, if anything it gave me more of a light academia, light gothic vibe. Personally I wanted to see a bit more flirting from Lissette but it was well resolved in the time frame.
Comp to CL Polks Kingston Cycle.
August 15, 2025
4 stars, yet again!
I was reading these first two novellas as I was lucky enough to receive the ARC of the third instalment, A Lantern Left Burning, and I wanted to be more familiar with the world and the characters before I delved into that story.
Like the first novella, I thoroughly enjoyed the blossoming relationship between the two characters - Nora and Lisette.
I quite enjoy this theme of the characters becoming "trapped" somewhere with each other, and in this case, having to face their past. It was almost like a second chance romance, which I've discovered I do enjoy reading about.
Nora was a delight. Her worries of not being good enough, of not having found herself, those connected with me. And our lovely Lisette was very humorous. I liked her teasing nature.
Another whimsical, lovely read from Thea Hawthorne!
I was reading these first two novellas as I was lucky enough to receive the ARC of the third instalment, A Lantern Left Burning, and I wanted to be more familiar with the world and the characters before I delved into that story.
Like the first novella, I thoroughly enjoyed the blossoming relationship between the two characters - Nora and Lisette.
I quite enjoy this theme of the characters becoming "trapped" somewhere with each other, and in this case, having to face their past. It was almost like a second chance romance, which I've discovered I do enjoy reading about.
Nora was a delight. Her worries of not being good enough, of not having found herself, those connected with me. And our lovely Lisette was very humorous. I liked her teasing nature.
Another whimsical, lovely read from Thea Hawthorne!
March 21, 2025
I was lucky enough to recieve an e-arc of this delightful novella, and I immediately want to read all of Thea Hawthorne‘s other books. I’m not even sure how I stumbled across her arc signup form, but I am so glad I did.
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This is such a cozy story - a sapphic novella about a painter and a girl who has never liked her portrait. Who has never truly felt seen in her own portrayal. A painter who has never reached her potential. This was quick, and cute, and I would read more of this world (so good thing theres more to read!). In parts, this is about self-view, self-expression and self-discovery.
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This is such a cozy story - a sapphic novella about a painter and a girl who has never liked her portrait. Who has never truly felt seen in her own portrayal. A painter who has never reached her potential. This was quick, and cute, and I would read more of this world (so good thing theres more to read!). In parts, this is about self-view, self-expression and self-discovery.
March 26, 2025
4.25 🌟
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Thea Hawthorne, for giving me this ARC.
I'm obsessed. I really love the way this author writes her stories. Earlier this year I read The Muse of Missing Pieces and I was immediately hooked and wanted to read more from this author. When I started this one I was afraid that it couldn't compare to the previous book but I was wrong. It perfectly captured the cozyness and the pining. I absolutely adore the way the author wrote all the characters and all their traits.
Overall I really liked this and the way it was written I'll definitely read the next thing from this author.
Before I begin I want to thank the author, Thea Hawthorne, for giving me this ARC.
I'm obsessed. I really love the way this author writes her stories. Earlier this year I read The Muse of Missing Pieces and I was immediately hooked and wanted to read more from this author. When I started this one I was afraid that it couldn't compare to the previous book but I was wrong. It perfectly captured the cozyness and the pining. I absolutely adore the way the author wrote all the characters and all their traits.
Overall I really liked this and the way it was written I'll definitely read the next thing from this author.
April 6, 2025
I somehow managed to get myself an E-ARC copy of this book and oh my gosh, what a delight!!
It’s a lovely romance with a cosy steampunk aesthetic!
I really enjoyed the way we were just kind of dropped into the world, and it immediately felt immersive. You can feel the intensity of the character’s relationships and the weight their history holds, as the intimacy and romantic tension unfolds between them.
God I also loved Nora’s growth! There really is something about the way you have to love your art for arts sake, and have a strong sense of self in order to show up for the people in your life.
It’s a lovely romance with a cosy steampunk aesthetic!
I really enjoyed the way we were just kind of dropped into the world, and it immediately felt immersive. You can feel the intensity of the character’s relationships and the weight their history holds, as the intimacy and romantic tension unfolds between them.
God I also loved Nora’s growth! There really is something about the way you have to love your art for arts sake, and have a strong sense of self in order to show up for the people in your life.
March 6, 2025
this was perfect. it was atmospheric. the characters were charming. once again, the romance was perfect with the perfect amount of yearning and development. the mentions of the stormbeasts and the airships were very interesting to me. and the pretty cover and the cute drawings added so much to the story. i'm looking forward to your future works. thank you so so much for the arc!
June 21, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Absolutely gorgeous and impeccably written sapphic cozy fantasy romance about a painter and the muse she has a second chance of capturing. The worldbuilding is godsdamn impeccable too, a lovely ethereal steampunk ether-world I can’t wait to go back to!
Absolutely gorgeous and impeccably written sapphic cozy fantasy romance about a painter and the muse she has a second chance of capturing. The worldbuilding is godsdamn impeccable too, a lovely ethereal steampunk ether-world I can’t wait to go back to!
November 12, 2025
3.5 | hermosa la ambientación y me encantaron ellas pero me hubiera gustado que explotara un poco más el romance!!!
(igual ya me voy a leer la siguiente)
(igual ya me voy a leer la siguiente)
July 29, 2025
Review Copy – This book was sent to me by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
i loved a reverie of roses. i love it so much! it’s the perfect cosy, fantasy romance. it’s cute. it’s adorable. i was giggling and kicking my feet the whole way through. i am obsessed with nora and lisette.
it has everything you could want - yearning. a chaotic friend group. a play. it’s sapphic. there’s a dog. they have a history.
literally of the above served up on a platter 🥰
i loved a reverie of roses. i love it so much! it’s the perfect cosy, fantasy romance. it’s cute. it’s adorable. i was giggling and kicking my feet the whole way through. i am obsessed with nora and lisette.
it has everything you could want - yearning. a chaotic friend group. a play. it’s sapphic. there’s a dog. they have a history.
literally of the above served up on a platter 🥰
March 12, 2025
Thank you so much to the author, Thea Hawthorne, for the free early copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a lovely cozy fantasy, the environment was super well described. I think one of my favorite things about this novella was how atmospheric it was! I really felt like I was in Esk and in the countryside with these characters. I enjoyed the fantasy aspects of the story with the aether and I would love to learn more about it. The fantastical components of this were not too complicated to follow; While they were present, they did not overwhelm the narrative which I appreciated since the story was so short. I love the summer house party vibes that were established in this, this is just a setting that I generally like to read about.
The story's beginning was instigated by a bet which I thought was a fun concept. I appreciated seeing the character growth that Nora and Lisette underwent throughout the story. The paintings and the creative aspects of the story I felt connected to and I don't think I've read too many stories focused so heavily on the arts which was refreshing. You can tell that the main character is very guarded at the beginning and it was really a journey of peeling back the layers of the characters. However, I will say I did expect a greater focus on the romance in this novella, things do not start to pick up until over halfway into it. I wouldn't have had an issue with this except for the fact that it is heavily marketed as a cozy, sapphic novella. I also did not love how Nora's friends treated her at the beginning but they get a bit of redemption at the end.
Overall, I think this was such a cozy and exciting story. There was excellent character development throughout this and the atmospheric setting were two key aspects that I adored about this novella. The countryside estate evoked such a mystical, dream-like feeling within me which made me feel cozy and warm within. Lisette's companions in the story were super boisterous and vibrant bringing a lot of life and hilarity into the pages. This novella was a quick read that I would recommend because of its whimsy and is one that I think will have a wide appeal to people interested in the cozy romantasy genre. Definitely planning on going back and reading the first novella and keeping up with the series going forward!
This was a lovely cozy fantasy, the environment was super well described. I think one of my favorite things about this novella was how atmospheric it was! I really felt like I was in Esk and in the countryside with these characters. I enjoyed the fantasy aspects of the story with the aether and I would love to learn more about it. The fantastical components of this were not too complicated to follow; While they were present, they did not overwhelm the narrative which I appreciated since the story was so short. I love the summer house party vibes that were established in this, this is just a setting that I generally like to read about.
The story's beginning was instigated by a bet which I thought was a fun concept. I appreciated seeing the character growth that Nora and Lisette underwent throughout the story. The paintings and the creative aspects of the story I felt connected to and I don't think I've read too many stories focused so heavily on the arts which was refreshing. You can tell that the main character is very guarded at the beginning and it was really a journey of peeling back the layers of the characters. However, I will say I did expect a greater focus on the romance in this novella, things do not start to pick up until over halfway into it. I wouldn't have had an issue with this except for the fact that it is heavily marketed as a cozy, sapphic novella. I also did not love how Nora's friends treated her at the beginning but they get a bit of redemption at the end.
Overall, I think this was such a cozy and exciting story. There was excellent character development throughout this and the atmospheric setting were two key aspects that I adored about this novella. The countryside estate evoked such a mystical, dream-like feeling within me which made me feel cozy and warm within. Lisette's companions in the story were super boisterous and vibrant bringing a lot of life and hilarity into the pages. This novella was a quick read that I would recommend because of its whimsy and is one that I think will have a wide appeal to people interested in the cozy romantasy genre. Definitely planning on going back and reading the first novella and keeping up with the series going forward!
March 17, 2025
This captivating romance seamlessly blends the thrill of creative ambition with the yearning of unresolved love. Nora’s internal struggle to deny her feelings creates a delightful slow-burn romance, skillfully teasing the reader with every interaction (much like Lisette herself). This narrative pacing, coupled with the book’s length, allows emotions to simmer, building anticipation until the inevitable boiling point. Slightly longer than The Muse of Missing Pieces, this novel is best enjoyed with a hot pot of tea, under a cozy blanket, on a stormy day with nothing much else to do.
Further enriched by the expansion of Esk's worldbuilding, I was delighted by the nods to characters and events from the previous novel, The Muse of Missing Pieces, providing a sense of continuity and depth. These elements invite readers to fully sink their teeth into a world that feels vibrant and lived-in. The way Hawthorne has quietly expanded her universe in the background of this charming summer-by-the-sea tale left me wishing I could spend a holiday at Heron's Rest too, even if it were to be mostly spent re-reading this tale under a blanket waiting for the aetherstorm to pass.
The stormy backdrop of a secluded country manor adds a layer of intimacy, forcing Nora to confront both her history with Lisette, and the sensible struggle between heart and mind was illustrated so perfectly in a way that many will find relatable.
This novel is not just a tale of love—it’s a beautifully crafted exploration of vulnerability, artistry, and second chances, making it a must-read for fans of slow-burn romance and richly detailed storytelling. I especially enjoyed the bonus scene of the Annual, which really tied the entire story up beautifully.
And with that I am eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to dive in once again to the world of Esk. Thank you Thea Hawthorne for providing me with an early access copy of A Reverie of Roses.
Further enriched by the expansion of Esk's worldbuilding, I was delighted by the nods to characters and events from the previous novel, The Muse of Missing Pieces, providing a sense of continuity and depth. These elements invite readers to fully sink their teeth into a world that feels vibrant and lived-in. The way Hawthorne has quietly expanded her universe in the background of this charming summer-by-the-sea tale left me wishing I could spend a holiday at Heron's Rest too, even if it were to be mostly spent re-reading this tale under a blanket waiting for the aetherstorm to pass.
The stormy backdrop of a secluded country manor adds a layer of intimacy, forcing Nora to confront both her history with Lisette, and the sensible struggle between heart and mind was illustrated so perfectly in a way that many will find relatable.
This novel is not just a tale of love—it’s a beautifully crafted exploration of vulnerability, artistry, and second chances, making it a must-read for fans of slow-burn romance and richly detailed storytelling. I especially enjoyed the bonus scene of the Annual, which really tied the entire story up beautifully.
And with that I am eagerly awaiting the next opportunity to dive in once again to the world of Esk. Thank you Thea Hawthorne for providing me with an early access copy of A Reverie of Roses.
March 11, 2025
Art. Attraction. Atmosphere. A masterpiece.
A struggling portraitist. An infamous socialite.
A risky bet. A portrait must be crafted. Hearts must be protected at all costs.
A beautifully cozy, warm and fuzzy romance with no spice and a fade-to-black scene that will leave you kicking your feet in the air giggling to your heart's content. With the tension between Nora and Lisette filling the air, readers will find themselves lost in a fantasy world where the author takes us on a journey through her brilliant descriptions of art. You can picture it all so vividly in your mind's eye, almost as if you yourself were the artist. Colors and exquisite imagery burst to life from the page, igniting a desire to paint and be painted.
The boldness of Lisette's flirtations and Nora's witty comments coupled with a historical yet fantastical world where sapphic romances are all the norm is a breath of fresh air to read. Nora's not only acknowledgement but acceptance of her flaws and weaknesses was lovely to read as she does not berate herself but merely allows herself to push herself to what she knows she can achieve, something many readers will relate to and perhaps aspire to do themselves.
Everything about this novel feels breathtaking and exquisite; the pace, the tension and connection between Nora and Lisette, the cozy summer feels, the sense of privacy for the characters with intimate scenes, the way a certain intimate scene reminds me of the drawing scene in Titanic, the ending—there is nothing I could possibly pick apart from this book, it is pure perfection and I am so honored to have read such a charming book.
I cannot wait to see what else Thea Hawthorne brings to the table as she has surely found a loyal reader in me.
A struggling portraitist. An infamous socialite.
A risky bet. A portrait must be crafted. Hearts must be protected at all costs.
A beautifully cozy, warm and fuzzy romance with no spice and a fade-to-black scene that will leave you kicking your feet in the air giggling to your heart's content. With the tension between Nora and Lisette filling the air, readers will find themselves lost in a fantasy world where the author takes us on a journey through her brilliant descriptions of art. You can picture it all so vividly in your mind's eye, almost as if you yourself were the artist. Colors and exquisite imagery burst to life from the page, igniting a desire to paint and be painted.
The boldness of Lisette's flirtations and Nora's witty comments coupled with a historical yet fantastical world where sapphic romances are all the norm is a breath of fresh air to read. Nora's not only acknowledgement but acceptance of her flaws and weaknesses was lovely to read as she does not berate herself but merely allows herself to push herself to what she knows she can achieve, something many readers will relate to and perhaps aspire to do themselves.
Everything about this novel feels breathtaking and exquisite; the pace, the tension and connection between Nora and Lisette, the cozy summer feels, the sense of privacy for the characters with intimate scenes, the way a certain intimate scene reminds me of the drawing scene in Titanic, the ending—there is nothing I could possibly pick apart from this book, it is pure perfection and I am so honored to have read such a charming book.
I cannot wait to see what else Thea Hawthorne brings to the table as she has surely found a loyal reader in me.
March 7, 2025
[5/5 stars] ༄
This was such a beautiful cozy sapphic fantasy novella!!!!! I loved the romance and the YEARNING and the way that the feelings were palpable, you can feel them through the pages.
I loved the art aspects of this and how Nora is an artisan and has to paint Lisette, who is known to be a hard subject to paint to everyone.
The characters in this were so fun to read about. I did enjoy the companionship that they all had, Lisette and her friends and then Toby, her cousin at the manor. It was like an extended sleepover with the weather being so bad that it trapped them in the manor.
The time this is set in, though not explicitly said outright, but you could tell with the setting, speech, clothing, etc was so very fun to be in.
The writing was so well done. It felt like i was being transported to the manor and Esk itself. I felt like i was sensing all the senses with the way the author wrote about it. I also enjoyed the 3rd person POV a lot. I know a lot of people tend to steer clear of books with that, but for this story, it was the best choice and I heavily enjoyed it.
The romance was positively entrancing. I will always be a sucker for sapphic romances, and this one was no different.
With Nora and Lisette’s past, it’s interesting to see the differences and similarities between the now and then. The ending was so cute!!!!
I truly couldn’t find a single thing wrong with this novella. I will definitely be reading other works of this author in the future. 10/10!!!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC!
Pub Date: March 20, 2025
TWs/CWs: sexual content (fade to black)
This was such a beautiful cozy sapphic fantasy novella!!!!! I loved the romance and the YEARNING and the way that the feelings were palpable, you can feel them through the pages.
I loved the art aspects of this and how Nora is an artisan and has to paint Lisette, who is known to be a hard subject to paint to everyone.
The characters in this were so fun to read about. I did enjoy the companionship that they all had, Lisette and her friends and then Toby, her cousin at the manor. It was like an extended sleepover with the weather being so bad that it trapped them in the manor.
The time this is set in, though not explicitly said outright, but you could tell with the setting, speech, clothing, etc was so very fun to be in.
The writing was so well done. It felt like i was being transported to the manor and Esk itself. I felt like i was sensing all the senses with the way the author wrote about it. I also enjoyed the 3rd person POV a lot. I know a lot of people tend to steer clear of books with that, but for this story, it was the best choice and I heavily enjoyed it.
The romance was positively entrancing. I will always be a sucker for sapphic romances, and this one was no different.
With Nora and Lisette’s past, it’s interesting to see the differences and similarities between the now and then. The ending was so cute!!!!
I truly couldn’t find a single thing wrong with this novella. I will definitely be reading other works of this author in the future. 10/10!!!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC!
Pub Date: March 20, 2025
TWs/CWs: sexual content (fade to black)
March 10, 2025
5 /5 ★
Date Finished ~ 03.09.2025
★ 𝖕𝖑𝖊𝖆𝖘𝖊 𝖓𝖔𝖙𝖊 - 𝖒𝖞 𝖗𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 𝖒𝖆𝖞 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖙𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖘𝖕𝖔𝖎𝖑𝖊𝖗𝖘 ★
"𝚃𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢? 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠. 𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚗𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝, 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚊𝚗𝚝."
"𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚗𝚘𝚠. 𝙶𝚘𝚍𝚜, 𝙸 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞."
"𝙸 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚑 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍, 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚒𝚏 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝."
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺 + 𝑺𝑷𝑰𝑪𝑬 ~
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Enemies to Lovers
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Slow burn
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Light Academia vibes
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Queer/Sapphic
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ 🌶️
↳ No spice, more so implied than anything.
𝑴𝒀 𝑩𝑰𝑮𝑮𝑬𝑺𝑻 𝑻𝑨𝑲𝑬𝑨𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 ~
╰┈➤ I loved the yearning between Lis and Nora, and the banter they shared. Not only that, but the characters were so cleverly written, for Nora to not realize most of her frustrations with Lis were due to her feelings. That the reason Lis was so aloof and ever-changing was just to try and capture Nora's attention. I absolutely adored them.
╰┈➤ This is my first time reading Thea's work, but I loved the imagery and writing style of the novella. It was so descriptive, and I felt so immersed into their little world, whether in the studio in Esk, or in the garden at the Estate.
╰┈➤ I was very grateful for the full circle moment between Nora and Emlyn. I was happy to see that he too, wasn't "rude" like how Nora initially thought, but also someone who deeply cared for Nora and wanted to see her grow to her potential.
𝑰𝑵 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑬𝑵𝑫 ~
All in all, a very quick and light hearted read - that is fully immersive and a beautiful story. If you want a Grumpy x Sunshine, paint me like one of your French girls, kicking my feet smiling novella - this one is for you ~!
Absolutely so grateful to have received this arc ♡
Date Finished ~ 03.09.2025
★ 𝖕𝖑𝖊𝖆𝖘𝖊 𝖓𝖔𝖙𝖊 - 𝖒𝖞 𝖗𝖊𝖛𝖎𝖊𝖜 𝖒𝖆𝖞 𝖈𝖔𝖓𝖙𝖆𝖎𝖓 𝖘𝖕𝖔𝖎𝖑𝖊𝖗𝖘 ★
"𝚃𝚘𝚍𝚊𝚢? 𝙴𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚑𝚊𝚍𝚘𝚠. 𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚗𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝, 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚛𝚊𝚍𝚒𝚊𝚗𝚝."
"𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚗𝚘𝚠. 𝙶𝚘𝚍𝚜, 𝙸 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞."
"𝙸 𝚠𝚒𝚜𝚑 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍, 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚗 𝚒𝚏 𝚒𝚝 𝚒𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚜𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝."
𝑻𝑹𝑶𝑷𝑬𝑺 + 𝑺𝑷𝑰𝑪𝑬 ~
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Enemies to Lovers
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Slow burn
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Light Academia vibes
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ Queer/Sapphic
─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ 🌶️
↳ No spice, more so implied than anything.
𝑴𝒀 𝑩𝑰𝑮𝑮𝑬𝑺𝑻 𝑻𝑨𝑲𝑬𝑨𝑾𝑨𝒀𝑺 ~
╰┈➤ I loved the yearning between Lis and Nora, and the banter they shared. Not only that, but the characters were so cleverly written, for Nora to not realize most of her frustrations with Lis were due to her feelings. That the reason Lis was so aloof and ever-changing was just to try and capture Nora's attention. I absolutely adored them.
╰┈➤ This is my first time reading Thea's work, but I loved the imagery and writing style of the novella. It was so descriptive, and I felt so immersed into their little world, whether in the studio in Esk, or in the garden at the Estate.
╰┈➤ I was very grateful for the full circle moment between Nora and Emlyn. I was happy to see that he too, wasn't "rude" like how Nora initially thought, but also someone who deeply cared for Nora and wanted to see her grow to her potential.
𝑰𝑵 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑬𝑵𝑫 ~
All in all, a very quick and light hearted read - that is fully immersive and a beautiful story. If you want a Grumpy x Sunshine, paint me like one of your French girls, kicking my feet smiling novella - this one is for you ~!
Absolutely so grateful to have received this arc ♡
March 17, 2025
What a joy that I've been having rain days when reading this and the previous novella! I love when the weather outside coincides with the weather in the book - and especially here with the storm and sour mood that the rain brings on Nora.
I loved coming back to the world of Esk. I do admit I loved the previous novella a bit more than this one, and it's the only reason why this one is 4 stars. However, Nora and Lisette are both intriguing characters in their own right and I liked spending time with them.
The atmospheric storm, both real and emotional, served so well to show how sometimes things can change in a whirlwind and a couple of days, added on by the setting of being trapped in the manor and trapped in the machinations of your own mind and heart. The Nora we meet at the start of the story is not the same Nora we end up with and her character arc was so good to read.
The love story is almost a dangerous one, burning up so brightly, but full of yearning and discovery, bravery and acceptance. It's lovely how Nora's love and being is connected to her painting and the images it presents, both of Lisette (for some reason the first one in the pink dress is burned into my mind) and the strange eye.
If you joined the authors newsletter you were privy to the bonus epilogue chapter that just tied everything so perfectly together. I cannot wait to see what further stories await for us in Esk!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
I loved coming back to the world of Esk. I do admit I loved the previous novella a bit more than this one, and it's the only reason why this one is 4 stars. However, Nora and Lisette are both intriguing characters in their own right and I liked spending time with them.
The atmospheric storm, both real and emotional, served so well to show how sometimes things can change in a whirlwind and a couple of days, added on by the setting of being trapped in the manor and trapped in the machinations of your own mind and heart. The Nora we meet at the start of the story is not the same Nora we end up with and her character arc was so good to read.
The love story is almost a dangerous one, burning up so brightly, but full of yearning and discovery, bravery and acceptance. It's lovely how Nora's love and being is connected to her painting and the images it presents, both of Lisette (for some reason the first one in the pink dress is burned into my mind) and the strange eye.
If you joined the authors newsletter you were privy to the bonus epilogue chapter that just tied everything so perfectly together. I cannot wait to see what further stories await for us in Esk!
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
March 8, 2025
what a cozy, beautiful novella!!! i received the arc for this and i was absolutely blown away. we follow a painter, nora, who has taken a bet to paint a woman, lisette, that no one has been able to paint due to her eccentric personality. she had tried before but the woman never made it to the last showing and has had ill feelings toward her due to her charming personality that captured her heart and the out of nowhere dismissal. lisette allows her to try again only if she comes with her on a trip. nora has one goal: to finish the painting and get away from lisette as far as possible. but everything is against her when a storm keeps her stuck there and she doesn’t know if it’s a bad thing or not.
the imagery was beautiful and the writing with amazing and witty. i loved the characters, even the side ones. it was funny, romantic, and intense all in one go. i probably would’ve finished this sooner had i not been so busy but UGH the chemistry between these two was out of this world!! loved every second of it. 💘
the imagery was beautiful and the writing with amazing and witty. i loved the characters, even the side ones. it was funny, romantic, and intense all in one go. i probably would’ve finished this sooner had i not been so busy but UGH the chemistry between these two was out of this world!! loved every second of it. 💘
March 24, 2025
A Reverie of Roses is a cozy sapphic romance you can read with a cup of tea. With writing fit for the times of Jane Austen and a story of yearning and temptation.
I believe the storytelling was not only immersive but full of heart and feeling. Every character had personality and the main characters had flaws that made them more interesting to read.
Yet, for me there was more to be desired something felt empty it could have been the pacing and that some information seemed to lack purpose to the story. In my opinion the relationship seemed to develop almost out of no where, but when I review its more over how the story made me feel and towards the end, i was giggling and flipping pages as if I didn’t have any other responsibilities to attend to.
Overall the story was perfectly cozy for raining weather which I didn’t have but was able to envision with the descriptive writing Hawthorne used. I enjoyed the story and would recommend to anyone that wants a bit of light reading to escape the day.
I believe the storytelling was not only immersive but full of heart and feeling. Every character had personality and the main characters had flaws that made them more interesting to read.
Yet, for me there was more to be desired something felt empty it could have been the pacing and that some information seemed to lack purpose to the story. In my opinion the relationship seemed to develop almost out of no where, but when I review its more over how the story made me feel and towards the end, i was giggling and flipping pages as if I didn’t have any other responsibilities to attend to.
Overall the story was perfectly cozy for raining weather which I didn’t have but was able to envision with the descriptive writing Hawthorne used. I enjoyed the story and would recommend to anyone that wants a bit of light reading to escape the day.
April 11, 2025
So A Reverie of Roses—this one had me feeling some kind of way. It’s soft, romantic, and a little melancholic in that dreamy, artsy, “let’s unpack some feelings in a quiet manor house” kind of vibe. Thea Hawthorne’s writing is what really carried it for me. It’s smooth and poetic without trying too hard—like sipping something warm on a rainy day.
The plot flows nicely, and I really appreciated how it didn’t rush. You get to sit in the atmosphere and let the tension simmer, which totally fits the tone. The character work? Super solid. These aren’t flat, insta-love types. They have history, complicated emotions, and just enough emotional edge to keep things interesting.
That said, I landed on 3.5 stars because I wanted a little more. More payoff, more intensity, maybe just a touch more depth in some areas to really sink my teeth into. It felt like the story held back just a bit, and I would’ve happily lingered in this world for a few more chapters if it meant going deeper. Still, it’s a lovely, character-driven read with gorgeous writing and some quietly powerful moments.
The plot flows nicely, and I really appreciated how it didn’t rush. You get to sit in the atmosphere and let the tension simmer, which totally fits the tone. The character work? Super solid. These aren’t flat, insta-love types. They have history, complicated emotions, and just enough emotional edge to keep things interesting.
That said, I landed on 3.5 stars because I wanted a little more. More payoff, more intensity, maybe just a touch more depth in some areas to really sink my teeth into. It felt like the story held back just a bit, and I would’ve happily lingered in this world for a few more chapters if it meant going deeper. Still, it’s a lovely, character-driven read with gorgeous writing and some quietly powerful moments.
March 10, 2025
A Reverie of Roses is a sweet and cozy reprieve from the literary world of long-winded fantasies. Filled with paintings, play-acting, and a magical backdrop of storms and stormbeasts, I found myself wishing for even more of the world that Thea Hawthorne has created.
As a fantasy lover, I would die to see more of these aetherstorms and the beasts within them. The loftiness of this world was only in small glimpses, and yet I was completely enchanted by the possibilities. It felt almost Ghibli-esque in setting.
Nora and Lisette were nearly at each other's throats throughout the story, but who doesn't love needling their love interest. 💁🏼♀️ It was nice to see them push each other to recognize the patterns they have fallen into.
I would absolutely recommend reading this sweet little sapphic story during a storm for peak atmosphere. Or, if you want it slightly less moody, on a picnic blanket in the summertime.
As a fantasy lover, I would die to see more of these aetherstorms and the beasts within them. The loftiness of this world was only in small glimpses, and yet I was completely enchanted by the possibilities. It felt almost Ghibli-esque in setting.
Nora and Lisette were nearly at each other's throats throughout the story, but who doesn't love needling their love interest. 💁🏼♀️ It was nice to see them push each other to recognize the patterns they have fallen into.
I would absolutely recommend reading this sweet little sapphic story during a storm for peak atmosphere. Or, if you want it slightly less moody, on a picnic blanket in the summertime.
March 14, 2025
I quite enjoy this series. For one thing, they’re perfect as novellas. Nothing feels rushed, but the character development is solid, and everything has this dreamy, watercolor, fantastical feel. The romances are lovely, but there’s always something more.
Where “The Muse of Missing Pieces” tackled artistic burnout, “Reverie” confronts imposter syndrome. Nora is still making art, but she’s in her own head a lot, and she doubts everyone. Is she a grumpy little goose? Yes, and at times she’s abrasive, but she’s never cruel. Lisette has the makings of a manic pixie dream girl, but she becomes more solid as the storyline progresses. The writing is deeply visual, and it has a fae, pre-Raphaelite feel. Hawthorne’s use of language is striking, but never outright purple. This is an enchanting sapphic series with a touch of gaslamp fantasy that sets it apart from historical fiction.
I read this book as an ARC; my thoughts are my own.
Where “The Muse of Missing Pieces” tackled artistic burnout, “Reverie” confronts imposter syndrome. Nora is still making art, but she’s in her own head a lot, and she doubts everyone. Is she a grumpy little goose? Yes, and at times she’s abrasive, but she’s never cruel. Lisette has the makings of a manic pixie dream girl, but she becomes more solid as the storyline progresses. The writing is deeply visual, and it has a fae, pre-Raphaelite feel. Hawthorne’s use of language is striking, but never outright purple. This is an enchanting sapphic series with a touch of gaslamp fantasy that sets it apart from historical fiction.
I read this book as an ARC; my thoughts are my own.
March 8, 2025
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
WOW! I devoured this novella, and not just because it's short. I am a sucker for period pieces in general, but this story is truly something special. Nora and Lisette's chemistry is beautifully built, and had me rooting for them every step of the way. Even though this is a novella, Hawthorne doesn't let any details fall through the cracks. She takes the time to develop each character and create a beautiful world for them to inhabit. I could see each of Nora's paintings in my mind's eye, picture the storm raging around the mansion as hijinks ensued inside. The biggest thing I could want from any future Esk stories is more on the stormbeasts. This was a beautiful story, and I have to get my hands on more of her writing immediately (and you should, too!).
WOW! I devoured this novella, and not just because it's short. I am a sucker for period pieces in general, but this story is truly something special. Nora and Lisette's chemistry is beautifully built, and had me rooting for them every step of the way. Even though this is a novella, Hawthorne doesn't let any details fall through the cracks. She takes the time to develop each character and create a beautiful world for them to inhabit. I could see each of Nora's paintings in my mind's eye, picture the storm raging around the mansion as hijinks ensued inside. The biggest thing I could want from any future Esk stories is more on the stormbeasts. This was a beautiful story, and I have to get my hands on more of her writing immediately (and you should, too!).
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