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Grayshell Rising #1
Commanding Flame and Shield: Grayshell Rising, Book One
A reluctant, prophesied leader. A legendary warrior. An evasive enemy threatening everything they hold dear, and a star-crossed love they’d burn the world to save.
August Porter is a lucrative investor, admired for his ethics and respected for his success. Engaged to a beautiful businesswoman, his life looks like the American dream. But August has a secret. His nights are spent fighting for his life—trying to escape talons that drag him into darkness, fleeing monsters promising an end to his future. But they're just nightmares. At least, that's what he convinces himself...until he comes face to face with a fierce stranger promising salvation...if he leaves everything he's ever known behind.
The legendary Alvara of Grayshell has two missions in guard humanity from the demons freed from Hell, and steward half-Angel souls into their own dimension when their celestial powers arrive. For months, she’s been haunted daily by August’s face. By the constant pull to him. The mysterious man evades her power…when no mark ever has.
Grayshell, Chicago...even Hell itself—she won't stop fighting until his soul is safe with her. When an ancient prophecy brings forth an enemy threatening to sever everything he loves, August must confront his destiny. Will he trust the light or succumb to the darkness?
Filled with deep world building, a tension-filled slow burn romance, and epic battles, this first book in the Grayshell Rising series is perfect for fans of Throne of Glass and The Bridge Kingdom.
August Porter is a lucrative investor, admired for his ethics and respected for his success. Engaged to a beautiful businesswoman, his life looks like the American dream. But August has a secret. His nights are spent fighting for his life—trying to escape talons that drag him into darkness, fleeing monsters promising an end to his future. But they're just nightmares. At least, that's what he convinces himself...until he comes face to face with a fierce stranger promising salvation...if he leaves everything he's ever known behind.
The legendary Alvara of Grayshell has two missions in guard humanity from the demons freed from Hell, and steward half-Angel souls into their own dimension when their celestial powers arrive. For months, she’s been haunted daily by August’s face. By the constant pull to him. The mysterious man evades her power…when no mark ever has.
Grayshell, Chicago...even Hell itself—she won't stop fighting until his soul is safe with her. When an ancient prophecy brings forth an enemy threatening to sever everything he loves, August must confront his destiny. Will he trust the light or succumb to the darkness?
Filled with deep world building, a tension-filled slow burn romance, and epic battles, this first book in the Grayshell Rising series is perfect for fans of Throne of Glass and The Bridge Kingdom.
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First published January 25, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
January 15, 2023
First, this book is chunky, I believe over 700 pages (on kindle). The first third of the book is heavy with setting up the characters, worlds, explaining the magic system, etc. It can be a lot to sift through. The book is dual POV and I really liked that.
The middle third is where the book really dives into the characters. There is action but also characterbonding. We get foreshadowing for the big bads, and underneath it all, we get the slowest of slow burns between the two main characters and their budding romance. The tension between them is so good though!
There is a religious undertone for this book, but not in a preachy way. It is just used to help explain the world and the characters and the "why" of what they do. If you like Throne Of Glass, you'll enjoy the plot-pacing and action style of this book.
The last third of the book is where a ton of action happens. Lots of near death battles and moments of sacrifice to save loved ones, as well as some major reveals. It felt like the action was non-stop. The ending of the book gave us a sweet reprieve after all the battle scenes and also left a lot open for book 2 to dive into.
Overall if you want a fantasy read partially set in the "real world", that deals with light vs dark, demons vs half-angels, past lives, fated soul mates, and a ton of action, this book is for you. Can't wait for book 2!
The middle third is where the book really dives into the characters. There is action but also characterbonding. We get foreshadowing for the big bads, and underneath it all, we get the slowest of slow burns between the two main characters and their budding romance. The tension between them is so good though!
There is a religious undertone for this book, but not in a preachy way. It is just used to help explain the world and the characters and the "why" of what they do. If you like Throne Of Glass, you'll enjoy the plot-pacing and action style of this book.
The last third of the book is where a ton of action happens. Lots of near death battles and moments of sacrifice to save loved ones, as well as some major reveals. It felt like the action was non-stop. The ending of the book gave us a sweet reprieve after all the battle scenes and also left a lot open for book 2 to dive into.
Overall if you want a fantasy read partially set in the "real world", that deals with light vs dark, demons vs half-angels, past lives, fated soul mates, and a ton of action, this book is for you. Can't wait for book 2!
January 3, 2023
I have never wanted a book more than I do this one. Will be updating as I read.
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND ALSO GET THIS ON AUDIOBOOK. TRUST ME 🥵
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND ALSO GET THIS ON AUDIOBOOK. TRUST ME 🥵
January 25, 2023
First off, I want to say Happy Pub Day! And thank you to the author for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
3 ⭐️! (Please note: I feel that 3 stars are viewed as negative reviews. This is NOT a negative review and anything above 3 stars, I recommend to friends!)
This was an absolute CHUNK of a book for a debut! The world building and characters were so fun to read about. This was a very unique concept for a fantasy series that I personally had never read before. Our characters are half angels and the book is set partially in an urban setting (earth) and partially in our half angels hideaway (Grayshell). While the book has religious undertones (they are half-Angels), it is never preachy. The characters are not perfect and make very human mistakes. SJ Barnett does an amazing job of describing the world, crafting descriptive battle scenes, creating a very unique magic system, and developing really strong characters.
What I Loved:
-strong FMC
-dual POV, I love having the MMC’s POV!
-really strong world building (I was able to visualize everything in my mind, I literally had a dream about one of the chapters!!!)
-cast of characters (really strong found family vibes and a slow burn romance that will have you clawing at the pages)
-strong magic system (this was a VERY unique book and I loved learning more and more about each character’s powers.)
-cliffhanger that makes you want more (like seriously what in the heck am I going to do until I have book 2????? Hello???? SYDNE???? HELP????)
What didn’t work for me:
-for me, the length of the book made the pacing feel off. I often found myself confused and trying to figure out the plot and what exactly were our main characters motivations.
-I felt that this maybe could’ve been put into two books. I would’ve loved to have a little bit more of a drawn out beginning of the story. (To me, the summary of the book made me think we would have that story for this whole book, but that plot point gets resolved fairly quickly which lead me to be confused as to where the story was going.)
-I would have enjoyed meeting the villain sooner (again, this comes from wanting this to be split into two books, because the plot for me got lost in translation
-Lots of narration to the point of being excessive. This is a personal opinion here that I would have liked more dialogue. The worldbuilding was sometimes introduced through narration which can be hard for me to get through.
Tropes:
-Slow burn romance
-Found Family
-immortal FMC
-lots of tension
-dual POV
-spice level: 🌶️
Summary:
So much goes on in this book that it is honestly hard to put a summary together without feeling like I am spoiling. Please see summary on Goodreads and know that this is a story of light vs. dark. Angels vs. Demons.
Overall, I can’t wait to read the next book. I hope my review highlights the really amazing things that SJ Barnett has accomplished through her DEBUT novel. This was an absolute monster of a debut and I am so proud of her for her accomplishments! Can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment!
3 ⭐️! (Please note: I feel that 3 stars are viewed as negative reviews. This is NOT a negative review and anything above 3 stars, I recommend to friends!)
This was an absolute CHUNK of a book for a debut! The world building and characters were so fun to read about. This was a very unique concept for a fantasy series that I personally had never read before. Our characters are half angels and the book is set partially in an urban setting (earth) and partially in our half angels hideaway (Grayshell). While the book has religious undertones (they are half-Angels), it is never preachy. The characters are not perfect and make very human mistakes. SJ Barnett does an amazing job of describing the world, crafting descriptive battle scenes, creating a very unique magic system, and developing really strong characters.
What I Loved:
-strong FMC
-dual POV, I love having the MMC’s POV!
-really strong world building (I was able to visualize everything in my mind, I literally had a dream about one of the chapters!!!)
-cast of characters (really strong found family vibes and a slow burn romance that will have you clawing at the pages)
-strong magic system (this was a VERY unique book and I loved learning more and more about each character’s powers.)
-cliffhanger that makes you want more (like seriously what in the heck am I going to do until I have book 2????? Hello???? SYDNE???? HELP????)
What didn’t work for me:
-for me, the length of the book made the pacing feel off. I often found myself confused and trying to figure out the plot and what exactly were our main characters motivations.
-I felt that this maybe could’ve been put into two books. I would’ve loved to have a little bit more of a drawn out beginning of the story. (To me, the summary of the book made me think we would have that story for this whole book, but that plot point gets resolved fairly quickly which lead me to be confused as to where the story was going.)
-I would have enjoyed meeting the villain sooner (again, this comes from wanting this to be split into two books, because the plot for me got lost in translation
-Lots of narration to the point of being excessive. This is a personal opinion here that I would have liked more dialogue. The worldbuilding was sometimes introduced through narration which can be hard for me to get through.
Tropes:
-Slow burn romance
-Found Family
-immortal FMC
-lots of tension
-dual POV
-spice level: 🌶️
Summary:
So much goes on in this book that it is honestly hard to put a summary together without feeling like I am spoiling. Please see summary on Goodreads and know that this is a story of light vs. dark. Angels vs. Demons.
Overall, I can’t wait to read the next book. I hope my review highlights the really amazing things that SJ Barnett has accomplished through her DEBUT novel. This was an absolute monster of a debut and I am so proud of her for her accomplishments! Can’t wait to see what happens in the next installment!
January 18, 2023
Review
When I received my ARC of Commanding Flame and Shield by S.J Barnett I was so excited and yet nervous. This was my first ARC ever and the what if’s playing through my mind were real…. What if I don’t like it? What if I am not able to write a good review? Could I criticize the work of someone’s passion?
Well thank heavens I don’t have to worry about those what if’s!!! This was a five star read for me! I LOVED this story. I loved the world building, the characters, the found family, the slow burn, the fated mates, the I would burn the world down for you love between all of them.
The FMC, Alvara Goldman, has spent over 300 years saving souls and protecting the mortal world. Her fellow half angel, half human found family are a group of characters that are unique and quirky and utterly devoted to each other and their cause. The first part of the story introduces all the characters and their magic world, powers and purpose. It starts with the challenge of finding Alvara’s first charge, August Porter.
When August is brought into the Grayshell home, in the middle realm, the strings of the past, present and future slowly take shape into an amazing journey that is Commanding Flame and Shield.
This book had me hooked from page one. I had a little trouble keeping characters straight in the beginning (Aren, Alec, Ansel, Alphea, Lana) - the names all blended together initially as I was trying to imagine the world. As I got to know them all more I fell in love with all of them. Now they are more than similar names to me. I have an attachment to each of them through their interwoven histories and stories. I would compare their relationships to that of the inner circle in the ACOTAR series. I love them that much!
The action and heart pounding moments in this book are non stop. Every time there is a chapter or two of peace and discovery, all hell breaks loose and you are holding your breath and praying everyone makes it to the other side.
The MMC, August Porter - he is such a kind hearted old soul. His love for Ally…
“Somehow in my core, I knew it to be true. My strength laid in Alvara. And something told me that hers laid in me. We were … kismet. That was the word for it. Not even an angel could argue with fate.”
He knew he was connected to Ally early, the how is just part of the story.
I normally love a good spicy romance but this slow burn is… chef’s kiss! Their love was so true, so pure that it didn’t even matter how long I had to wait.
Read this book! I promise you that you will love it! S. J. Barnett has become a new must read author for me! I can’t wait for the next installment of this series and will be buying myself a copy of this book for my shelf ASAP!
Because…August and Ally….
“Until the very end?……
…. Baby, even then, I’ll see you in our encore.”
When I received my ARC of Commanding Flame and Shield by S.J Barnett I was so excited and yet nervous. This was my first ARC ever and the what if’s playing through my mind were real…. What if I don’t like it? What if I am not able to write a good review? Could I criticize the work of someone’s passion?
Well thank heavens I don’t have to worry about those what if’s!!! This was a five star read for me! I LOVED this story. I loved the world building, the characters, the found family, the slow burn, the fated mates, the I would burn the world down for you love between all of them.
The FMC, Alvara Goldman, has spent over 300 years saving souls and protecting the mortal world. Her fellow half angel, half human found family are a group of characters that are unique and quirky and utterly devoted to each other and their cause. The first part of the story introduces all the characters and their magic world, powers and purpose. It starts with the challenge of finding Alvara’s first charge, August Porter.
When August is brought into the Grayshell home, in the middle realm, the strings of the past, present and future slowly take shape into an amazing journey that is Commanding Flame and Shield.
This book had me hooked from page one. I had a little trouble keeping characters straight in the beginning (Aren, Alec, Ansel, Alphea, Lana) - the names all blended together initially as I was trying to imagine the world. As I got to know them all more I fell in love with all of them. Now they are more than similar names to me. I have an attachment to each of them through their interwoven histories and stories. I would compare their relationships to that of the inner circle in the ACOTAR series. I love them that much!
The action and heart pounding moments in this book are non stop. Every time there is a chapter or two of peace and discovery, all hell breaks loose and you are holding your breath and praying everyone makes it to the other side.
The MMC, August Porter - he is such a kind hearted old soul. His love for Ally…
“Somehow in my core, I knew it to be true. My strength laid in Alvara. And something told me that hers laid in me. We were … kismet. That was the word for it. Not even an angel could argue with fate.”
He knew he was connected to Ally early, the how is just part of the story.
I normally love a good spicy romance but this slow burn is… chef’s kiss! Their love was so true, so pure that it didn’t even matter how long I had to wait.
Read this book! I promise you that you will love it! S. J. Barnett has become a new must read author for me! I can’t wait for the next installment of this series and will be buying myself a copy of this book for my shelf ASAP!
Because…August and Ally….
“Until the very end?……
…. Baby, even then, I’ll see you in our encore.”
January 12, 2023
*I was sent an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Holy crap, I’m literally speechless. I mean, I have words, but I don’t know how to form them into coherent thoughts.
I did not mean to stay up until 2am reading, but I just could not put the book down to sleep.
I’ve been actively reading since I first learned how to, and in that time, I’ve never come across a book anything remotely like this one. The concept? Incredibly unique. The writing? Utterly compelling. The plot? I literally said I couldn’t put it down. The characters? Um, yes please. Need I say more? (I totally will, just limiting myself for the sake of sleep).
I cannot wait to see how the story continues from here! Thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this masterpiece!!
Holy crap, I’m literally speechless. I mean, I have words, but I don’t know how to form them into coherent thoughts.
I did not mean to stay up until 2am reading, but I just could not put the book down to sleep.
I’ve been actively reading since I first learned how to, and in that time, I’ve never come across a book anything remotely like this one. The concept? Incredibly unique. The writing? Utterly compelling. The plot? I literally said I couldn’t put it down. The characters? Um, yes please. Need I say more? (I totally will, just limiting myself for the sake of sleep).
I cannot wait to see how the story continues from here! Thank you so much for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this masterpiece!!
January 12, 2023
An epic story of light vs dark. This book has it all from fates mates, duel POV and lots of truly epic battle scenes.
I enjoyed following along while August and Alvara grew closer and slowly started opening up and trusting eachother. This book has a whirlwind of angels and demons, magical powers, intense battle scenes, love and past lives. It will have you crying, laughing, melting and gripping your seat never knowing what to expect.
The plot was truly amazing as was the character build.
Each character is different and unique in their own ways and they’re beautifully written!
I enjoyed following along while August and Alvara grew closer and slowly started opening up and trusting eachother. This book has a whirlwind of angels and demons, magical powers, intense battle scenes, love and past lives. It will have you crying, laughing, melting and gripping your seat never knowing what to expect.
The plot was truly amazing as was the character build.
Each character is different and unique in their own ways and they’re beautifully written!
January 16, 2023
Commanding Flame and Shield was incredible. I had a nice time reading it.
August is a successful business man. Lately he has lots of nightmares with his betrothed being stabbed and there is a stranger in his dreams.
One day he is face to face with a demon and the stranger calls him out. He follows her and enters a new world.
The world building was very unique, the plot was fascinating. It was HIGH fantasy; there were lots of action, battle scenes, different abilities... The battle scenes were epics with lots of description, it was like a movie inside my head. I enjoyed the two main characters and their POV. Alvara is such a bad ass. I loved knowing more about Alvara & August’s previous lives.
I enjoyed the found family vibes; it brought some lighthearted scenes in the book which allowed me to breathe a little bit.
The sloooow burn was crazy, I was hooked by it, it was one of my favorite slow burn. I could feel the tension between the characters. And the romance was just perfection, perfectly written fated soul mates.
I can’t wait to read the next book !
If you’re looking for HIGH fantasy, you should add this book to your TBR.
Thank you for the opportunity to read it
August is a successful business man. Lately he has lots of nightmares with his betrothed being stabbed and there is a stranger in his dreams.
One day he is face to face with a demon and the stranger calls him out. He follows her and enters a new world.
The world building was very unique, the plot was fascinating. It was HIGH fantasy; there were lots of action, battle scenes, different abilities... The battle scenes were epics with lots of description, it was like a movie inside my head. I enjoyed the two main characters and their POV. Alvara is such a bad ass. I loved knowing more about Alvara & August’s previous lives.
I enjoyed the found family vibes; it brought some lighthearted scenes in the book which allowed me to breathe a little bit.
The sloooow burn was crazy, I was hooked by it, it was one of my favorite slow burn. I could feel the tension between the characters. And the romance was just perfection, perfectly written fated soul mates.
I can’t wait to read the next book !
If you’re looking for HIGH fantasy, you should add this book to your TBR.
Thank you for the opportunity to read it
January 18, 2023
4/5 ⭐️, 2 🌶️
•dual POV
• demons, half angels, etc
• reincarnation
• slow burn… like really slow but steamy slow burn
• found family
• fated mates
• touch her/him and die
really enjoyed this book! From the beginning I was hooked on the world building and magic because it was so different & captivating! I did struggle initially with the character building and keeping up with who was who but was worth it to stick it through! This book is tense & action packed . A few near death battles, with twists! while it is action packed I felt it was equally character driven! Throughout the book you get to know each of the characters, their past, unique abilities and also the love they have for each other that was beautifully written! The villain of the story was so interesting to me , I have a few theories and am looking forward to the next book and what it will dive into!
Thank you to the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review!
•dual POV
• demons, half angels, etc
• reincarnation
• slow burn… like really slow but steamy slow burn
• found family
• fated mates
• touch her/him and die
really enjoyed this book! From the beginning I was hooked on the world building and magic because it was so different & captivating! I did struggle initially with the character building and keeping up with who was who but was worth it to stick it through! This book is tense & action packed . A few near death battles, with twists! while it is action packed I felt it was equally character driven! Throughout the book you get to know each of the characters, their past, unique abilities and also the love they have for each other that was beautifully written! The villain of the story was so interesting to me , I have a few theories and am looking forward to the next book and what it will dive into!
Thank you to the author for sending me the book in exchange for an honest review!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2023
I was very fortunate enough to be a part of the ARC team for this awesome book. The plot was on point. It was full of love, action, good vs evil, and magic that it kept me fully captivated. I fell in love with all of the characters, they were all so different and unique. The amount of detail that was put into this story was chef’s kiss. I could not put this book down. I definitely recommend this book. If you love fiction books about magic, light vs dark, good vs evil, love, & dreams vs reality this is the book for you.
January 17, 2023
" I received an Arc in exchange for an honest review"
OH WOW! First off, thank you Sydne for the honor of getting to read an arc for this book. This book is not small and I feel like I devoured it in just a few days. I normally read several books at a time and I put down the other 3 to only read this one. I loved it.
Ok, on to the actual review! This has so many of the tropes we love, found family, fated mates, chosen one, morally grey hero, slow burn, and one bed. The concept of this book was definitely something I hadn't really seen before and it intrigued me from the beginning when Alvara could touch piano keys and see the memories in the antique. All the elements of this book were so interesting and fun.
So chapter one, I was already loving it. It is definitely a slow burn, but the journey is totally worth it. Alvara and August are amazing and their chemistry is intoxicating. The character building really happens throughout the middle of the book. It can feel like it starts to lag just a tiny bit, but it is well worth it and really sets everything for the last third of the book. Like any good fantasy book, there is a lot of world building in the first half and you learn about the coven and these souls and how they're intertwined. You also learn about Grayshell, their home, and how the hierarchy works. The last third of the book is action packed with twists and turns. I stayed up way too late and was late to work because I just couldn't put this book down when I hit the last third. Aren, the commander and sort of "father figure" to Alvara is the big strong teddy bear bestie will all wish we had. Ansel, reminds me a bit of Azriel in SJMs Acotar books, quiet, broody, but knows when to make a move. Alec, I loved his humor and "big brother" personality. He is protective, but fun. Definitely inner circle vibes. I don't want to mention all the characters, you just have to read it! Meet these fabulous characters for yourself.
Overall, I clearly fell in love with this book. I laughed, I panicked, I was on the edge of my seat, I loved with them and cried. Already ordered a physical copy because this is a book that deserves a place on my bookshelves. If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass, Acotar or Crescent City, JLA's From Blood and Ash, or even The Bridge Kingdom series, you will LOVE this book.
OH WOW! First off, thank you Sydne for the honor of getting to read an arc for this book. This book is not small and I feel like I devoured it in just a few days. I normally read several books at a time and I put down the other 3 to only read this one. I loved it.
Ok, on to the actual review! This has so many of the tropes we love, found family, fated mates, chosen one, morally grey hero, slow burn, and one bed. The concept of this book was definitely something I hadn't really seen before and it intrigued me from the beginning when Alvara could touch piano keys and see the memories in the antique. All the elements of this book were so interesting and fun.
So chapter one, I was already loving it. It is definitely a slow burn, but the journey is totally worth it. Alvara and August are amazing and their chemistry is intoxicating. The character building really happens throughout the middle of the book. It can feel like it starts to lag just a tiny bit, but it is well worth it and really sets everything for the last third of the book. Like any good fantasy book, there is a lot of world building in the first half and you learn about the coven and these souls and how they're intertwined. You also learn about Grayshell, their home, and how the hierarchy works. The last third of the book is action packed with twists and turns. I stayed up way too late and was late to work because I just couldn't put this book down when I hit the last third. Aren, the commander and sort of "father figure" to Alvara is the big strong teddy bear bestie will all wish we had. Ansel, reminds me a bit of Azriel in SJMs Acotar books, quiet, broody, but knows when to make a move. Alec, I loved his humor and "big brother" personality. He is protective, but fun. Definitely inner circle vibes. I don't want to mention all the characters, you just have to read it! Meet these fabulous characters for yourself.
Overall, I clearly fell in love with this book. I laughed, I panicked, I was on the edge of my seat, I loved with them and cried. Already ordered a physical copy because this is a book that deserves a place on my bookshelves. If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas' Throne of Glass, Acotar or Crescent City, JLA's From Blood and Ash, or even The Bridge Kingdom series, you will LOVE this book.
January 21, 2023
STOP WHAT YOU’RE DOING AND READ THIS BOOK!
I am astonished by what S.J. Barnett gave us. This book is a solid 5 star for me: from the plot to the characters, the worldbuilding and the writing, this book has all you need to get you hooked from the first chapter and asking for more when you put it down.
But want to know what the best thing was for me? THE VILLAIN. I didn’t realise I hadn’t read a book with a really good villain in a while until I met this one. The charisma, the questions he poses, the personality and attitude… I have not wanted to join a villain’s side this much since the Darkling in Shadow and Bone.
Fear not, the FMC and MMC will keep you firmly rooted on their side. How could they not? This dynamic is EVERYTHING. The slow burn is so slow but so BURNING you’re on the edge of your seat yelling “JUST KISS ALREADY” most of the time. August is the ideal partner wrapped in a shiny package, he’s already my new book boyfriend.
And the found family? I am a sucker for this trope and S.J. Barnett more than delivered. The characters are loveable and the relationships will leave you wanting even more. The interactions are beyond riveting and that is all thanks to her amazing writing.
It is funny, witty, gives you descriptions without boring you. She doesn’t shy away from violence and leaves room for softer moments, keeping the right balance between the two. The pace is perfect and the plot keeps you on your toes without leaving you breathless. It is intriguing from the start and at no point whatsoever did I know where she was taking us. What a pleasant and thrilling ride from start to finish.
From the unique magic concept to the incredible worldbuilding, reading CFAS is like entering Narnia. It’s diving into a whole other world you didn’t know existed right under your nose, and you don’t want to leave it.
I was sceptical about any religious theme at first as I am not a religious person, and I was pleasantly surprised to be stimulated by the questions S.J. Barnett raised. The themes around choice, agency and freedom are thought-provoking and leave you wanting to see which side will prevail.
I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book already!
I am astonished by what S.J. Barnett gave us. This book is a solid 5 star for me: from the plot to the characters, the worldbuilding and the writing, this book has all you need to get you hooked from the first chapter and asking for more when you put it down.
But want to know what the best thing was for me? THE VILLAIN. I didn’t realise I hadn’t read a book with a really good villain in a while until I met this one. The charisma, the questions he poses, the personality and attitude… I have not wanted to join a villain’s side this much since the Darkling in Shadow and Bone.
Fear not, the FMC and MMC will keep you firmly rooted on their side. How could they not? This dynamic is EVERYTHING. The slow burn is so slow but so BURNING you’re on the edge of your seat yelling “JUST KISS ALREADY” most of the time. August is the ideal partner wrapped in a shiny package, he’s already my new book boyfriend.
And the found family? I am a sucker for this trope and S.J. Barnett more than delivered. The characters are loveable and the relationships will leave you wanting even more. The interactions are beyond riveting and that is all thanks to her amazing writing.
It is funny, witty, gives you descriptions without boring you. She doesn’t shy away from violence and leaves room for softer moments, keeping the right balance between the two. The pace is perfect and the plot keeps you on your toes without leaving you breathless. It is intriguing from the start and at no point whatsoever did I know where she was taking us. What a pleasant and thrilling ride from start to finish.
From the unique magic concept to the incredible worldbuilding, reading CFAS is like entering Narnia. It’s diving into a whole other world you didn’t know existed right under your nose, and you don’t want to leave it.
I was sceptical about any religious theme at first as I am not a religious person, and I was pleasantly surprised to be stimulated by the questions S.J. Barnett raised. The themes around choice, agency and freedom are thought-provoking and leave you wanting to see which side will prevail.
I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book already!
January 22, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange of a honest review!
Rating: 4.5⭐
Oh boy, where do I start!? After reading so many fantasy books, it’s super hard to find something outside the box, but S.J.Barnett did just that ! The world building and plot is completely unique, as well as the ‘magic’ system.
Plot & World Building
‘Commanding Flame and Shield’ starts off slow, like an introduction to the rest of the series. It’s a very needed one because this World is super complex, and the reader really needs to understand the World building, characters, magic system, etc.
Although I’m not a religious person, I loved how the author managed to include it in this book! Not just include it, but the book has Religion as its foundation (the characters are literally half-angels that battle demons).
Characters
One of my favorite parts about this book was the fact that Alvara was the badass ancient warrior (300+) while August was the rookie, struggling to keep up. The tension between them was palpable, and although there’s not much spice here, I didn’t mind it one bit, since I was enjoying their bickering too much.
Aren, Alec, Fae, Lana and Ansel are the other 5 characters that I enjoyed immensely knowing about! I’m a sucker for a found family troupe, and this little group warmed my heart and made me truly happy. All of them have entirely different personalities, but they’re a team, and they’re always there in case the other falls.
Writing
This book is chonky, around 700 pages as an ebook with a dual POV (loved that btw!), but the writing was so compelling that I can honestly say I never felt bored while reading it, even when nothing major was happening. The descriptions were beautifully written, and never once I thought ‘it’s too much’.
The battle scenes were also *chef's kiss*, they were so well depicted that imagining them was not a problem at all, almost as effortless as watching a movie.
Ending
After so many struggles and tears, we finally see a light at the end of the tunnel...the ending was so cute and sweet, exactly what I needed to read. It also leaves an opening for the second book, and I can't wait to read it!
Rating: 4.5⭐
Oh boy, where do I start!? After reading so many fantasy books, it’s super hard to find something outside the box, but S.J.Barnett did just that ! The world building and plot is completely unique, as well as the ‘magic’ system.
Plot & World Building
‘Commanding Flame and Shield’ starts off slow, like an introduction to the rest of the series. It’s a very needed one because this World is super complex, and the reader really needs to understand the World building, characters, magic system, etc.
Although I’m not a religious person, I loved how the author managed to include it in this book! Not just include it, but the book has Religion as its foundation (the characters are literally half-angels that battle demons).
Characters
One of my favorite parts about this book was the fact that Alvara was the badass ancient warrior (300+) while August was the rookie, struggling to keep up. The tension between them was palpable, and although there’s not much spice here, I didn’t mind it one bit, since I was enjoying their bickering too much.
Aren, Alec, Fae, Lana and Ansel are the other 5 characters that I enjoyed immensely knowing about! I’m a sucker for a found family troupe, and this little group warmed my heart and made me truly happy. All of them have entirely different personalities, but they’re a team, and they’re always there in case the other falls.
Writing
This book is chonky, around 700 pages as an ebook with a dual POV (loved that btw!), but the writing was so compelling that I can honestly say I never felt bored while reading it, even when nothing major was happening. The descriptions were beautifully written, and never once I thought ‘it’s too much’.
The battle scenes were also *chef's kiss*, they were so well depicted that imagining them was not a problem at all, almost as effortless as watching a movie.
Ending
After so many struggles and tears, we finally see a light at the end of the tunnel...the ending was so cute and sweet, exactly what I needed to read. It also leaves an opening for the second book, and I can't wait to read it!
January 24, 2023
Holy cow! Nobody would ever know that this is S.J. Barnett’s first book.
I remember following her journey of writing this and was honored to be selected to read it as an ARC. I can honestly say this is one of the best fantasy books I’ve read. I cannot wait to recommend it to people as it releases on the 25th!
So many perfect parts - slow burn romance, friends to lovers, fates mates, found family, urban fantasy, healing trauma, chosen one… and so much more! I loved the playful banter and the humor throughout the whole book. I found myself smiling and crying and feeling all the emotions.
Everything about this storyline was incredible. My jaw dropped and I was shocked a couple of times. Not only are the main plot points told beautifully but also the background parts, histories, and visions that are seen. I was mesmerized
Thank you so much, Sydne, for sharing Alvara’s story with us. Thank you for letting me come along the journey and be an ARC reader! I cannot wait for the next book!!!
I remember following her journey of writing this and was honored to be selected to read it as an ARC. I can honestly say this is one of the best fantasy books I’ve read. I cannot wait to recommend it to people as it releases on the 25th!
So many perfect parts - slow burn romance, friends to lovers, fates mates, found family, urban fantasy, healing trauma, chosen one… and so much more! I loved the playful banter and the humor throughout the whole book. I found myself smiling and crying and feeling all the emotions.
Everything about this storyline was incredible. My jaw dropped and I was shocked a couple of times. Not only are the main plot points told beautifully but also the background parts, histories, and visions that are seen. I was mesmerized
Thank you so much, Sydne, for sharing Alvara’s story with us. Thank you for letting me come along the journey and be an ARC reader! I cannot wait for the next book!!!
January 19, 2023
This book was an intense wild ride. The first few chapters are a bit overwhelming with alot happening right from the beginning and it takes a few chapters to piece together the whole picture of the world and magic system. This book is about warrior angelic beings fighting demons in our world and helping humans with angelic souls come into their true form. This book has fated mates, past lives, dual pov, found family a very slow burn and alot of intense battles. It is also a big boy with alot going on, very few slow points making it sometimes overwhelming but never boring. The love story was beautiful as our main characters struggled with their purpose and what they mean to each other. Constantly drawn to each other but too stubborn to fall. It was a beautiful take on soul mates/fated mates. Definitely looking forward to book 2.
January 23, 2023
First I would like to thank S. J. Barnett for allowing me to be an arc reader for Commanding Flame and Shield, book 1 in the Grayshell Rising series.
In this debut novel we get this epic battle of Nephilim and demons, light and dark, good versus evil. Our FMC Alvara is a Nephilim fighting to save souls from Hell’s grasp. Our MMC August is plagued with nightmares of monsters trying to destroy any future he thought he had. When Alvara receives a calling for a soul in danger but can only see his face, she has to find him before the darkness can. Will August trust this powerful stranger who promises him safety?
I was absolutely blown away by the story, the world building, the characters and writing. The premise is unique and not at all like so many of the fantasy books out right now. It is very rare that I am so hooked within the first few chapters of a book, let alone the first of a series. There is a religious aspect to the story, which I was a bit unsure of, but I didn’t feel that is was overpowering at all. It helps to explain what the Nephilim are and why they fight to save these souls.
Normally there is so much world building that goes into the first chapters but I didn’t find it overwhelming at all and any questions I had were answered quick and didn’t leave me confused. You are sort of finding out everything as August does and I find that this approach makes absorbing the the information a little easier. There is still a lot of action that happens in the beginning so it isn’t just an info dump. The magic system was very different than anything I had read before with each character having different levels of power and specialties.
Now the characters are probably my FAVOURITE part of this book. The found family trope in this story has a similar feeling to the Inner Circle from ACOTAR. That feeling of home when you see how the characters interact with each other. The banter and comaraderie between people that have known each other and fought together for many years. The inside jokes and the loyalty they have to one another. Each side character felt just as important to the story as our main characters. We have duel POVs which I always enjoy because we get to see what Alvara and August are both thinking and feeling. The tension between them is so delicious and the slow burn is on point. Something I didn’t expect was how conflicted I would feel about the villain in this book. I found myself understanding where he is coming from and the reasoning behind his actions. I don’t think I’ve cared this much about what happens to the villain before reading this book.
The level of writing in Commanding Flame and Shield is extraordinary. You would never guess this was a debut novel. The way everything flowed was so natural. The imagery was so picturesque without being too descriptive. There were so many scenes that played out like a movie in my head, from the epic battle scenes to the soft, sweet moments. I found myself not wanting to put it down while simultaneously not wanting it to end. The twists and turns and surprises had me on the edge of my seat as certain things were revealed. I can’t wait to see where this series goes and to find out more about these characters that have found their way into my heart.
In this debut novel we get this epic battle of Nephilim and demons, light and dark, good versus evil. Our FMC Alvara is a Nephilim fighting to save souls from Hell’s grasp. Our MMC August is plagued with nightmares of monsters trying to destroy any future he thought he had. When Alvara receives a calling for a soul in danger but can only see his face, she has to find him before the darkness can. Will August trust this powerful stranger who promises him safety?
I was absolutely blown away by the story, the world building, the characters and writing. The premise is unique and not at all like so many of the fantasy books out right now. It is very rare that I am so hooked within the first few chapters of a book, let alone the first of a series. There is a religious aspect to the story, which I was a bit unsure of, but I didn’t feel that is was overpowering at all. It helps to explain what the Nephilim are and why they fight to save these souls.
Normally there is so much world building that goes into the first chapters but I didn’t find it overwhelming at all and any questions I had were answered quick and didn’t leave me confused. You are sort of finding out everything as August does and I find that this approach makes absorbing the the information a little easier. There is still a lot of action that happens in the beginning so it isn’t just an info dump. The magic system was very different than anything I had read before with each character having different levels of power and specialties.
Now the characters are probably my FAVOURITE part of this book. The found family trope in this story has a similar feeling to the Inner Circle from ACOTAR. That feeling of home when you see how the characters interact with each other. The banter and comaraderie between people that have known each other and fought together for many years. The inside jokes and the loyalty they have to one another. Each side character felt just as important to the story as our main characters. We have duel POVs which I always enjoy because we get to see what Alvara and August are both thinking and feeling. The tension between them is so delicious and the slow burn is on point. Something I didn’t expect was how conflicted I would feel about the villain in this book. I found myself understanding where he is coming from and the reasoning behind his actions. I don’t think I’ve cared this much about what happens to the villain before reading this book.
The level of writing in Commanding Flame and Shield is extraordinary. You would never guess this was a debut novel. The way everything flowed was so natural. The imagery was so picturesque without being too descriptive. There were so many scenes that played out like a movie in my head, from the epic battle scenes to the soft, sweet moments. I found myself not wanting to put it down while simultaneously not wanting it to end. The twists and turns and surprises had me on the edge of my seat as certain things were revealed. I can’t wait to see where this series goes and to find out more about these characters that have found their way into my heart.
January 12, 2023
This book was one of my most anticipated reads of January. When the author sent little old me an ARC my heart dropped. I was beyond excited and honored. This book has took me on a roller coaster of emotions for sure. So let’s talk about it. I’ll do my best not to add any spoilers!
First, I’d like to say starting off the world building was a little slow and I was worried. It picked up starting around the 5th to 6th chapter and I then understood why it was a little slow. It’s a lot of lore to dig into. I felt like learning it all at the beginning would have most likely been a lot. So if you are feeling this way you are not alone. Stick to it!
Second let’s talk about what we really wanna talk about August Porter! *drool* August has quickly turned into one of my favorite male leads in every life (small joke if you know you know). The author could not had done anything different to make him more amazing in my eyes. Him and Ally are the absolute sweetest.
The spice level is a little low in this book. Don’t for one second get me wrong and think that my newest favorite babies do not bring it because they do. It was refreshing though. I feel like a lot of books now are spice in every other chapter. The slow burn reset me. It reminded me that I do love this type of romance. With that being said once again the spice is there! But the author makes your work for it. It is definitely worth the wait and more though! Don’t expect to much though. It’s a slow burn after all. The best parts are the small remarks and the anticipation.
All together this was a 5 star read to me. Once again it does start off a little slow on the world building but once you are in you are in. The lore is different from what I am use to and the characters come in with a bang literally. I would and have recommended this book to several people! I can’t wait for everyone to be able to get to know these amazing characters!
First, I’d like to say starting off the world building was a little slow and I was worried. It picked up starting around the 5th to 6th chapter and I then understood why it was a little slow. It’s a lot of lore to dig into. I felt like learning it all at the beginning would have most likely been a lot. So if you are feeling this way you are not alone. Stick to it!
Second let’s talk about what we really wanna talk about August Porter! *drool* August has quickly turned into one of my favorite male leads in every life (small joke if you know you know). The author could not had done anything different to make him more amazing in my eyes. Him and Ally are the absolute sweetest.
The spice level is a little low in this book. Don’t for one second get me wrong and think that my newest favorite babies do not bring it because they do. It was refreshing though. I feel like a lot of books now are spice in every other chapter. The slow burn reset me. It reminded me that I do love this type of romance. With that being said once again the spice is there! But the author makes your work for it. It is definitely worth the wait and more though! Don’t expect to much though. It’s a slow burn after all. The best parts are the small remarks and the anticipation.
All together this was a 5 star read to me. Once again it does start off a little slow on the world building but once you are in you are in. The lore is different from what I am use to and the characters come in with a bang literally. I would and have recommended this book to several people! I can’t wait for everyone to be able to get to know these amazing characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2023
First of all holy cow is this book long. 772 pages of action pack, partial amnesia, soulmates, good versus evil. Light vs dark. August Porter has been having vivid haunting dreams making him not sleep properly at night. He has a finance named Layla, to keep her in the dark he doesn’t tell her about his dreams. Because one it’ll make him seem crazy. 2nd there is a woman in his dreams seeking him out, along with scary looking monsters. But it seems one of dreams, Layla is found injured and possible dead. He has to get to her, until the woman in his dreams ask for him to call out her name so she can hear it and finally go to him. Is this a dream/nightmare for August?
Alvara a clarvovant, a descent of angels along with Aren and fellow warriors are out to fight darkness to get to other souls that call to them, and have he asscend to their past lives. To be like them, to find their strengths and train to hone their powers in order to help fight. When Ally learns of August name as the next soul to be found before evil gets to his soul. What she and the rest doesn’t know is who he truly is. She has to be the one to read his mind to search his past to find out about his past lives. You see Alvara has lived over 3 centuries and hasn’t been killed to get regenerated.
Anyways, we making focus on August and Alavara with Aren. Aren is the oldest and is he commander of the group. alavara is the seer, Ajen is a shield and Fae. Omg what is she? Anyways, this does end in a cliffhanger. But holy cow did this book take you for a loop de loop. A lot of finding things, experimental situation pushed to find answers. I don’t know how else to describe this book. I don’t remember how I heard of this book, but I am glad I found it. This got me hooked from the blurb and hooked me from first chapter. I thought I got lost, but no…it was written to throw us off like we were August at that moment. I hope that makes sense.
Alvara a clarvovant, a descent of angels along with Aren and fellow warriors are out to fight darkness to get to other souls that call to them, and have he asscend to their past lives. To be like them, to find their strengths and train to hone their powers in order to help fight. When Ally learns of August name as the next soul to be found before evil gets to his soul. What she and the rest doesn’t know is who he truly is. She has to be the one to read his mind to search his past to find out about his past lives. You see Alvara has lived over 3 centuries and hasn’t been killed to get regenerated.
Anyways, we making focus on August and Alavara with Aren. Aren is the oldest and is he commander of the group. alavara is the seer, Ajen is a shield and Fae. Omg what is she? Anyways, this does end in a cliffhanger. But holy cow did this book take you for a loop de loop. A lot of finding things, experimental situation pushed to find answers. I don’t know how else to describe this book. I don’t remember how I heard of this book, but I am glad I found it. This got me hooked from the blurb and hooked me from first chapter. I thought I got lost, but no…it was written to throw us off like we were August at that moment. I hope that makes sense.
January 17, 2023
Easy 5⭐️
You know you’ve read a great book when words fail you. It’s been more than 24 hours since I’ve finished Commanding Flame and Shield and I’m still wondering what I’m going to say… I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words how great it is, but here I go...
What an epic journey this was! Commanding Flame and Shield is one of the most captivating and enthralling fantasy book I’ve read so far. I was fascinated by this new universe where light and darkness, good and evil collide.
Don't be intimidated by the size of it (722 pages), it actually reads really quickly… it’s not long before you get so sūčkēd into the story that you can’t put down your book.
The battle scenes were incredible, not only in their description but also in their pace. Everything has been thought of. Character development, world building, twists (OMG! The twists!! *I still get chills just thinking about it*) everything is *chef’s kiss 👌🏻
For my sm*t lovers, this a sloooow burn. There’s lots of heat (a lot a lot!) but not a lot of spice. The payoff is worth the wait 😏
Now I need book 2… like yesterday!
𝗣𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝘂𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🛡️Books that keep you up at night and live rent free in your head
🛡️Nephilim warriors
🛡️Kickå$$ FMC
🛡️Touch her and dīė
🛡️Touch HIM and dīė 😍
🛡️Found family
🛡️Soul mates
🛡️High stakes
🛡️Action packed books
🛡️Slow burn
🛡️Reincarnation
🛡️Urban romantasy
🛡️A twist that will knock your socks off
Spice 🌶️
Heat 🔥🔥🔥
Action ⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️
Emotional damage 💧💧
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 @barnettbooktalk 𝘢𝘯𝘥 @thenextsteppr 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
You know you’ve read a great book when words fail you. It’s been more than 24 hours since I’ve finished Commanding Flame and Shield and I’m still wondering what I’m going to say… I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words how great it is, but here I go...
What an epic journey this was! Commanding Flame and Shield is one of the most captivating and enthralling fantasy book I’ve read so far. I was fascinated by this new universe where light and darkness, good and evil collide.
Don't be intimidated by the size of it (722 pages), it actually reads really quickly… it’s not long before you get so sūčkēd into the story that you can’t put down your book.
The battle scenes were incredible, not only in their description but also in their pace. Everything has been thought of. Character development, world building, twists (OMG! The twists!! *I still get chills just thinking about it*) everything is *chef’s kiss 👌🏻
For my sm*t lovers, this a sloooow burn. There’s lots of heat (a lot a lot!) but not a lot of spice. The payoff is worth the wait 😏
Now I need book 2… like yesterday!
𝗣𝗶𝗰𝗸 𝘂𝗽 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲:
🛡️Books that keep you up at night and live rent free in your head
🛡️Nephilim warriors
🛡️Kickå$$ FMC
🛡️Touch her and dīė
🛡️Touch HIM and dīė 😍
🛡️Found family
🛡️Soul mates
🛡️High stakes
🛡️Action packed books
🛡️Slow burn
🛡️Reincarnation
🛡️Urban romantasy
🛡️A twist that will knock your socks off
Spice 🌶️
Heat 🔥🔥🔥
Action ⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️⚔️
Emotional damage 💧💧
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘰 𝘮𝘶𝘤𝘩 @barnettbooktalk 𝘢𝘯𝘥 @thenextsteppr 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘱𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
January 17, 2023
I just want to say thank you so much for choosing me to be an ARC reader for this book! This is my first ever one! Here are my thoughts on Commanding Flame And Shield!
This book has extraordinary world building Throughout a good chunk of the beginning of the book, leaving you with a really good view of the world S.J. Barnett has created!
They have intense battles all the time protecting their people from the demons, which will have you on the edge of your seat through each one!
The magic was very fun as well and unique to the characters you grow to love early on in the story! The cadre, found family is amazing and I genuinely loved the relationship
between them all.
The romance is of course hands down my absolute favorite, I'm a sucker for fated mates! August and Alvara were amazing, and I really loved their personal journey through
everything they go through. Especially August being thrown into it and adapting and learning to grow in his new world. The slow burn between the two of them is absolutely
addictive!
If in depth world building, epic battles, captivating magic, found family and, slow burn fated mates is your cup of tea, then you need to read this book!
This book has extraordinary world building Throughout a good chunk of the beginning of the book, leaving you with a really good view of the world S.J. Barnett has created!
They have intense battles all the time protecting their people from the demons, which will have you on the edge of your seat through each one!
The magic was very fun as well and unique to the characters you grow to love early on in the story! The cadre, found family is amazing and I genuinely loved the relationship
between them all.
The romance is of course hands down my absolute favorite, I'm a sucker for fated mates! August and Alvara were amazing, and I really loved their personal journey through
everything they go through. Especially August being thrown into it and adapting and learning to grow in his new world. The slow burn between the two of them is absolutely
addictive!
If in depth world building, epic battles, captivating magic, found family and, slow burn fated mates is your cup of tea, then you need to read this book!
January 18, 2023
I am not always great with getting my thoughts about books out when I am done, so I apologize in advance! This book was incredible. I absolutely loved it! The characters are beautifully written along with their story. The plot keeps you intrigued, the slow burn is worth it, the development and the mystery keeps you guessing the entire way through. August and Alvara are now one of my favorite book couples. Their love for each other is long standing and charming.
January 19, 2023
So I had a hard time getting into the book in the first few chapters. It was a lot of character introductions and let's say in depth world building but it played an essential role into the story! The characters are enchanting in a way with a lot of depth and history! The action scenes are captivating. Absolutely loved it once I got past the first 3 chapters! Excited for book 2!
January 24, 2023
I was an ARC ready definitely honored to be able to review this book I definitely loved it couldn’t put it down almost forgot I had to get this done at home lol. I love the fact we were able to see August and Alvara previous lives they lived and Alvara definitely a badass for sure if you like ACOTAR And Crescent city you’ll love this
January 25, 2023
⭐️5/⭐️5
Received this book as an arc and couldn’t have been more pleased!
The world building was like nothing I’ve ever read! This book really did have it all for me…plot, characters, suspense!
I feel in love with Alvara and August as well as their family. Thank you to author Sydne Barnett.
Now to wait until this summer!
Received this book as an arc and couldn’t have been more pleased!
The world building was like nothing I’ve ever read! This book really did have it all for me…plot, characters, suspense!
I feel in love with Alvara and August as well as their family. Thank you to author Sydne Barnett.
Now to wait until this summer!
January 25, 2023
THIS BOOK❤️🔥 her writing is so beautiful. I was hooked from the very first page. I’m in awe
February 21, 2023
Commanding Flame and Shield by S.J. Barnett
Book 1
▪︎
4⭐
2🌶
Adult, Fantasy, Christian Mythology, Romance
Narration, Duet -5⭐!!
Unfinished series
▪︎
Quick synop
Alvara and her cadre are half angels. Guardians of the souls on earth. August is a lost soul, and one of them. She is on a mission to find him and once they do, he will need to be trained to join their cadre. There are battles of light vs dark and a villain that has a bargain to make.
▪︎
A debut!!! Its always so fun to see an Authors baby!
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LIKES
♡World building. Barnett did a fantastic job at this. I could really see my surroundings and the magic system, although there is alot, comes together beautifully. She really knows how to describe her characters and scenes.
♡Characters. Very well done here. We have a fairly large cast, though this is dual POV with Alvara and August, the Cadre is a solid group that we come to know and love. I even loved the villain!
♡The battle scenes. K to be clear, I do think there were too many battles in this book, but, they were very well written and action packed! There were high stakes in this story, which I love!
♡Potential. I see where the story is going, and if done well, I am very excited for the next books!
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DISLIKES
□Pacing. I felt like we did the same sequence in 4 different ways until about 60% of the book. Some romance between Alvara and August, training, then battle scene......repeat 4 times. But, once you get to that 65% mark......loved it. You just gotta push through!
□We needed to see the villain sooner. He is such an interesting character, and I think it would have done this book well to have him come in earlier.
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Ok. Now let me just take a minute for the romance. Cuz this is where I'm on the fence.
Ppl say this is a slow burn. Mmmm. I dunno about that. Slow burn spice? Yes. Slow burn feelings? No. Im pretty sure August even thinks to himself that he loves her around the 40% mark.
This is also a 'sweet romance'. Which, FOR ME, can feel boring. Its very healthy. So I guess I'm just broken hah 🤪
HOWEVER....
I'm hoping for a certain thing to happen....which will change my entire opinion. Guess we have to wait!
Have you read this?
Book 1
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4⭐
2🌶
Adult, Fantasy, Christian Mythology, Romance
Narration, Duet -5⭐!!
Unfinished series
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Quick synop
Alvara and her cadre are half angels. Guardians of the souls on earth. August is a lost soul, and one of them. She is on a mission to find him and once they do, he will need to be trained to join their cadre. There are battles of light vs dark and a villain that has a bargain to make.
▪︎
A debut!!! Its always so fun to see an Authors baby!
▪︎
LIKES
♡World building. Barnett did a fantastic job at this. I could really see my surroundings and the magic system, although there is alot, comes together beautifully. She really knows how to describe her characters and scenes.
♡Characters. Very well done here. We have a fairly large cast, though this is dual POV with Alvara and August, the Cadre is a solid group that we come to know and love. I even loved the villain!
♡The battle scenes. K to be clear, I do think there were too many battles in this book, but, they were very well written and action packed! There were high stakes in this story, which I love!
♡Potential. I see where the story is going, and if done well, I am very excited for the next books!
▪︎
DISLIKES
□Pacing. I felt like we did the same sequence in 4 different ways until about 60% of the book. Some romance between Alvara and August, training, then battle scene......repeat 4 times. But, once you get to that 65% mark......loved it. You just gotta push through!
□We needed to see the villain sooner. He is such an interesting character, and I think it would have done this book well to have him come in earlier.
▪︎
Ok. Now let me just take a minute for the romance. Cuz this is where I'm on the fence.
Ppl say this is a slow burn. Mmmm. I dunno about that. Slow burn spice? Yes. Slow burn feelings? No. Im pretty sure August even thinks to himself that he loves her around the 40% mark.
This is also a 'sweet romance'. Which, FOR ME, can feel boring. Its very healthy. So I guess I'm just broken hah 🤪
HOWEVER....
I'm hoping for a certain thing to happen....which will change my entire opinion. Guess we have to wait!
Have you read this?
September 28, 2023
1.5 stars at best
I do not understand all the 5 star ratings or recommendations for this book. Now before y'all come for me, let me preface this review by saying that I live for a good slow burn. This ain't it. This is a pile of waterlogged green wood that's trying to ignite via rubbing two pieces of paper together.
Let me save you 660 pages of torture. Ally is super powerful and rescues August from demons. He winds up being her soulmate and the King of their kind. The fight against the big bad is around page 550 and can be summed up by saying Ally doesn't kill the baddest guy because he's "someone" to her. Everyone in this book reincarnated and is stronger every time.
There's too much slow and not enough burn. The first 6 chapters should have been a prologue from Ally's POV. By the time any action happens in the book, it's been 300 pages. The kiss doesn't even happen until 69% in the book (nice). Smexy times are literally 94% in.
The action is boring. The spicy scenes are boring. I felt no conflict or urgency in any of it, even the scene at the end. First time in my book history I didn't read bonus scenes. The author spends so much time explaining everything and misusing words that you're just shaking the book wanting to yell "get it over with!!" Which I did, btw.
For someone with so much "church trauma" as purported in the trigger warnings? This book reads as a religious person's attempts at convincing you that they just want to hang out before springing a pamphlet and intervention about how much "j-sus saves" on you. I've read nephilim vs demons books, and they were about the struggle and the conflict. This was about g-d and l-cifer and how g-d is always gonna win. There is no grey, everything is black and white. Yawn.
Also, the writing. The author doesn't understand nocking an arrow, and thinks it's spelled knocking. Peacked vs piqued. Ascent vs assent. That the 1800s were 200 years ago, not 300. Names that don't look the same and are confusing - Jason, Jacob, Aren, Alec, Fae is Alphaea?! What this story really needed was an editor who was more willing to be a bit brutally honest and tell the author to chop chop and summarize.
I do not understand all the 5 star ratings or recommendations for this book. Now before y'all come for me, let me preface this review by saying that I live for a good slow burn. This ain't it. This is a pile of waterlogged green wood that's trying to ignite via rubbing two pieces of paper together.
Let me save you 660 pages of torture. Ally is super powerful and rescues August from demons. He winds up being her soulmate and the King of their kind. The fight against the big bad is around page 550 and can be summed up by saying Ally doesn't kill the baddest guy because he's "someone" to her. Everyone in this book reincarnated and is stronger every time.
There's too much slow and not enough burn. The first 6 chapters should have been a prologue from Ally's POV. By the time any action happens in the book, it's been 300 pages. The kiss doesn't even happen until 69% in the book (nice). Smexy times are literally 94% in.
The action is boring. The spicy scenes are boring. I felt no conflict or urgency in any of it, even the scene at the end. First time in my book history I didn't read bonus scenes. The author spends so much time explaining everything and misusing words that you're just shaking the book wanting to yell "get it over with!!" Which I did, btw.
For someone with so much "church trauma" as purported in the trigger warnings? This book reads as a religious person's attempts at convincing you that they just want to hang out before springing a pamphlet and intervention about how much "j-sus saves" on you. I've read nephilim vs demons books, and they were about the struggle and the conflict. This was about g-d and l-cifer and how g-d is always gonna win. There is no grey, everything is black and white. Yawn.
Also, the writing. The author doesn't understand nocking an arrow, and thinks it's spelled knocking. Peacked vs piqued. Ascent vs assent. That the 1800s were 200 years ago, not 300. Names that don't look the same and are confusing - Jason, Jacob, Aren, Alec, Fae is Alphaea?! What this story really needed was an editor who was more willing to be a bit brutally honest and tell the author to chop chop and summarize.
January 17, 2023
I received a ARC copy of this novel by @ in exchange for an honest review.
“We were…kismet”
I can’t believe that this is a debut novel! The writing style with imaginative world building, centered around amazing characters and an intriguing plot was fantastic to say the least.
Commanding flame and shield is the perfect blend of an old and modern fantasy with a gripping slow burn romance that had me frantically turning the page. Not to mention the plot twists and epic battle scenes between good and evil that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Set in modern time where half-angels and demons secretly walk among us in a battle of light and dark. Our story follows Alvara a immortal half-angel whom over centuries soul has been reincarnated cast out from heaven, due to the crimes of her angelic ancestors and to good for hell. Thus her purgatory is walking earth doing gods work. Alvara and her cadre work in tandem to find other half-breed souls, and fighting off the demons who covet the souls power. Each using their own angelic gifts and powers to help further the cause. Alvara is a powerful clairvoyant that can see the past, present and future. This leads her and her cadre to our second POV and our MMC August. August has always lived a normal successful life, except for the nightmares that plague him at night. Soon those nightmares become his reality, and he is forced with making an impossible decision. August must choose between his calling to join Alvara and the other half breeds, leaving everything and everyone in his life behind or turn his back on destiny.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a slow burn romance between fated mates, a dash of found family, heart wrenching friendship all rolled up into action pack fantasy set in a modern world.
I absolutely excited to see where this story takes us in book 2!
“We were…kismet”
I can’t believe that this is a debut novel! The writing style with imaginative world building, centered around amazing characters and an intriguing plot was fantastic to say the least.
Commanding flame and shield is the perfect blend of an old and modern fantasy with a gripping slow burn romance that had me frantically turning the page. Not to mention the plot twists and epic battle scenes between good and evil that kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.
Set in modern time where half-angels and demons secretly walk among us in a battle of light and dark. Our story follows Alvara a immortal half-angel whom over centuries soul has been reincarnated cast out from heaven, due to the crimes of her angelic ancestors and to good for hell. Thus her purgatory is walking earth doing gods work. Alvara and her cadre work in tandem to find other half-breed souls, and fighting off the demons who covet the souls power. Each using their own angelic gifts and powers to help further the cause. Alvara is a powerful clairvoyant that can see the past, present and future. This leads her and her cadre to our second POV and our MMC August. August has always lived a normal successful life, except for the nightmares that plague him at night. Soon those nightmares become his reality, and he is forced with making an impossible decision. August must choose between his calling to join Alvara and the other half breeds, leaving everything and everyone in his life behind or turn his back on destiny.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a slow burn romance between fated mates, a dash of found family, heart wrenching friendship all rolled up into action pack fantasy set in a modern world.
I absolutely excited to see where this story takes us in book 2!
January 23, 2023
*I was given an ARC for an honest review*
Holy cannoli! This book was a adventure! An incredible debut novel, I’m still processing all that happened!
An epic tail about the battle against good and evil, Angels vs. Demon. Fated-Mates trope with a deliciously teasing (slightly tortuous lol) slow-burn romance, and a touch of WORTH THE WAIT spice!
This book is completely action packed, and no dull moments. The author wrote each battle scene so well! The scenes were playing in my head as if I were watching a movie. The character building and world building were just so beautifully written. You literally see the world that they’re in, can almost feel their experiences as if you’re there, and I love how you get to see from both Alvara and August’s point of views. You get to see this story from the both of them, making it a truly well-rounded and in-depth experience.
I just loved this unique plot. I loved how bad-ass our heroine is, and how for once it’s not the female main character that is the one being rescued. I just love Alvara, she’s just so like-able and somehow made relatable, despite being a 300 year old immortal half-Angel with an insane amount of power lol.
There is a lot of religious undertone to this, but even if you aren’t of the Christian faith, I think you can love this book. It is NOT preachy in any way at all. However if Christianity, Angels, the mention of Jesus or God are triggers for you, this won’t be for you. Only other potential triggers I could think of are demon related content, possession, and if battle and gore is triggering.
I am SO excited for this amazing debut book, and will be waiting impatiently for the second! :)
Holy cannoli! This book was a adventure! An incredible debut novel, I’m still processing all that happened!
An epic tail about the battle against good and evil, Angels vs. Demon. Fated-Mates trope with a deliciously teasing (slightly tortuous lol) slow-burn romance, and a touch of WORTH THE WAIT spice!
This book is completely action packed, and no dull moments. The author wrote each battle scene so well! The scenes were playing in my head as if I were watching a movie. The character building and world building were just so beautifully written. You literally see the world that they’re in, can almost feel their experiences as if you’re there, and I love how you get to see from both Alvara and August’s point of views. You get to see this story from the both of them, making it a truly well-rounded and in-depth experience.
I just loved this unique plot. I loved how bad-ass our heroine is, and how for once it’s not the female main character that is the one being rescued. I just love Alvara, she’s just so like-able and somehow made relatable, despite being a 300 year old immortal half-Angel with an insane amount of power lol.
There is a lot of religious undertone to this, but even if you aren’t of the Christian faith, I think you can love this book. It is NOT preachy in any way at all. However if Christianity, Angels, the mention of Jesus or God are triggers for you, this won’t be for you. Only other potential triggers I could think of are demon related content, possession, and if battle and gore is triggering.
I am SO excited for this amazing debut book, and will be waiting impatiently for the second! :)
January 15, 2023
First off thank you so much Sydne for giving me an arc of your book! I was so excited to read this book and it did not disappoint. Before I get into the review I think everyone needs to take a minute and just admire this gorgeous cover!! I will say this book was way bigger than I thought it was going to be and I loved that I had even more time to fall in love with all the characters.
At the beginning of the book I will say I was very confused about what was going on and how the powers worked. After I got used to the characters everything started to be explained more and I fell in love with the story. Alvara is the badass (who is 300+ years old) with some amazing powers trying to get to and protect August who is just human. I love that we get a switch in the sense that the guy isn’t the supernatural.
We also get a world that’s different from a lot of the other fantasy books we’ve been seeing. In this we see nephelims, demons, fallen angels and warriors. There is also so much action in this book. I mean we are seeing battles happen throughout the whole book so there’s never a boring spot. We get fated mates who always make their way back to each other, touch him/her and you die, and I’ll watch the world burn for you. This is a SLOW burn but I really loved that the romance didn’t overpower the action in the book.
I definitely will be recommending this book to everyone!
At the beginning of the book I will say I was very confused about what was going on and how the powers worked. After I got used to the characters everything started to be explained more and I fell in love with the story. Alvara is the badass (who is 300+ years old) with some amazing powers trying to get to and protect August who is just human. I love that we get a switch in the sense that the guy isn’t the supernatural.
We also get a world that’s different from a lot of the other fantasy books we’ve been seeing. In this we see nephelims, demons, fallen angels and warriors. There is also so much action in this book. I mean we are seeing battles happen throughout the whole book so there’s never a boring spot. We get fated mates who always make their way back to each other, touch him/her and you die, and I’ll watch the world burn for you. This is a SLOW burn but I really loved that the romance didn’t overpower the action in the book.
I definitely will be recommending this book to everyone!
January 19, 2023
“I will follow you, to the end of this life, and into the next, my love.”
What an amazing debut novel! This book was so beautifully written, and I fell in love with August and Alvara.
The world building was on point. The characters were all so unique, and had their own personalities and qualities to fall in love with. The storyline itself was unlike anything I have ever read before. I cannot wait to go back to Grayshell in the next book.
I was given this ARC in exchange for a honest review. Thank you Sydne for allowing me to read your beautiful work!
What an amazing debut novel! This book was so beautifully written, and I fell in love with August and Alvara.
The world building was on point. The characters were all so unique, and had their own personalities and qualities to fall in love with. The storyline itself was unlike anything I have ever read before. I cannot wait to go back to Grayshell in the next book.
I was given this ARC in exchange for a honest review. Thank you Sydne for allowing me to read your beautiful work!
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