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Chasing The Flame
They say you can’t run from fire… but what if it’s the only thing keeping you alive?
Averie Blackthorne once had a dream job, a high-rise view of Manhattan, and a life all her own. Now she’s trapped in a crumbling lakeside mansion with a husband who thrives on control—and a secret she’s buried deep. Her days are filled with quiet desperation, her nights haunted by what she’s lost. Until Jettson Noxwood arrives.
Luke’s estranged cousin is everything Averie shouldn’t want—gritty, guarded, and far too observant. But as renovations begin on the decaying Carson Plantation, so does something an undeniable pull between two broken souls navigating the ruins of their pasts.
Tension crackles like a match struck too close. And as hidden truths flicker to life, Averie must will she keep surviving in silence, or set the whole damn world on fire?
Averie Blackthorne once had a dream job, a high-rise view of Manhattan, and a life all her own. Now she’s trapped in a crumbling lakeside mansion with a husband who thrives on control—and a secret she’s buried deep. Her days are filled with quiet desperation, her nights haunted by what she’s lost. Until Jettson Noxwood arrives.
Luke’s estranged cousin is everything Averie shouldn’t want—gritty, guarded, and far too observant. But as renovations begin on the decaying Carson Plantation, so does something an undeniable pull between two broken souls navigating the ruins of their pasts.
Tension crackles like a match struck too close. And as hidden truths flicker to life, Averie must will she keep surviving in silence, or set the whole damn world on fire?
275 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2025
9 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
June 16, 2025
Wow this book actually caught me so off guard! I knew this was a paranormal romance but I did not see that twist coming.
Averie finally lands her dream job in publishing, she’s living her dream life in New York, until Luke. This book deals with some very heavy themes that are difficult to read because they’re so raw and real to the struggle that people go through every day. Check your triggers, this deals with mental health, DV, PTSD, and SA (not with the final love interest). Luke is a controlling narcissist who has trapped Averie into a marriage where she is fully dependent on him. Until Jettson, Luke’s estranged cousin. When Luke and Averie move back to his hometown and buy a beautiful home, Jettson is just the man for the job to help them renovate it. Jettson may just end up being Averie’s saving grace as well.
When Averie starts hearing strange noises her husband tells her she isn’t allowed upstairs because it isn’t safe. However, curiosity kills the cat and all, and when she finally goes to investigate she may find that her husband is much more than just a humanly nightmare. Averie may also have been chosen by him for a reason, and her mom may be hiding a big secret from her.
The paranormal aspects and secret society elements drew me in immediately, I honestly thought we were just dealing with maybe a medium but the twist got me so good and it was fantastic! This book does end on a cliffhanger, however, it’s not one where you’re going to be cursing the author thankfully. It’ll just make you that much more excited to see where everything goes in book two!
Thank you so much to B Willis for the opportunity to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review.
Averie finally lands her dream job in publishing, she’s living her dream life in New York, until Luke. This book deals with some very heavy themes that are difficult to read because they’re so raw and real to the struggle that people go through every day. Check your triggers, this deals with mental health, DV, PTSD, and SA (not with the final love interest). Luke is a controlling narcissist who has trapped Averie into a marriage where she is fully dependent on him. Until Jettson, Luke’s estranged cousin. When Luke and Averie move back to his hometown and buy a beautiful home, Jettson is just the man for the job to help them renovate it. Jettson may just end up being Averie’s saving grace as well.
When Averie starts hearing strange noises her husband tells her she isn’t allowed upstairs because it isn’t safe. However, curiosity kills the cat and all, and when she finally goes to investigate she may find that her husband is much more than just a humanly nightmare. Averie may also have been chosen by him for a reason, and her mom may be hiding a big secret from her.
The paranormal aspects and secret society elements drew me in immediately, I honestly thought we were just dealing with maybe a medium but the twist got me so good and it was fantastic! This book does end on a cliffhanger, however, it’s not one where you’re going to be cursing the author thankfully. It’ll just make you that much more excited to see where everything goes in book two!
Thank you so much to B Willis for the opportunity to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review.
June 15, 2025
Loved this book…felt so many strong emotions for the characters, some good some not good at all. I am so glad there will be more in the series because it definitely left me wanting more. This was my first time to read this author, it will not be the last.
June 18, 2025
**ARC READ**
Averie feels stuck in a loop with how her life is, with an abusive husband and a novel she is trying to write for both publishing and as a way to escape. When her husband hires his long lost cousin to assist with some home renovations, Averie and Jettson feel an immediate connection that they both do their best to ignore. When the past and paranormal come out to play, will there ever be safety and peace for Averie?
I was so honored to ARC read for Wills again, and once again, a book that will chill rent free in your head. The plot thickened with every page, and the growth of our characters was brilliant. I loved witnessing trust and love be built slowly between Jettson and Averie. Luke is a whole POS - a brilliantly vile villain. Speaking of this, the TW are definitely a must read as this book does focus on some fairly heavy topics, and they are handled with care and sensitivity. The cliffhanger is absolutely amazing and you will be left wanting more as soon as you hit the end.
Averie feels stuck in a loop with how her life is, with an abusive husband and a novel she is trying to write for both publishing and as a way to escape. When her husband hires his long lost cousin to assist with some home renovations, Averie and Jettson feel an immediate connection that they both do their best to ignore. When the past and paranormal come out to play, will there ever be safety and peace for Averie?
I was so honored to ARC read for Wills again, and once again, a book that will chill rent free in your head. The plot thickened with every page, and the growth of our characters was brilliant. I loved witnessing trust and love be built slowly between Jettson and Averie. Luke is a whole POS - a brilliantly vile villain. Speaking of this, the TW are definitely a must read as this book does focus on some fairly heavy topics, and they are handled with care and sensitivity. The cliffhanger is absolutely amazing and you will be left wanting more as soon as you hit the end.
August 17, 2025
when domestic thriller meets dark fantasy
I stumbled across B. Willis on a random TikTok live, and I’m so glad I did. Going into this book, I had no idea what to expect beyond B saying, “It has shifters, but not like anything you’ve read before.” Say less. I grabbed the Kindle version immediately and devoured it in one sitting.
I love the world she’s building. I won’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil anything, but I NEED the next book. This one worked perfectly as an introduction—setting up the main characters, their pasts, their trauma, and giving us just enough of the world to leave me desperate for more.
I appreciated that it was an entry point without dragging. B didn’t waste time, she got me hooked right away. The vibes? Raven Boys meets Mortal Instruments meets adult romantasy with a side of abuse and trauma.
Honestly, I can already see this as a killer TV show.
I stumbled across B. Willis on a random TikTok live, and I’m so glad I did. Going into this book, I had no idea what to expect beyond B saying, “It has shifters, but not like anything you’ve read before.” Say less. I grabbed the Kindle version immediately and devoured it in one sitting.
I love the world she’s building. I won’t go into details because I don’t want to spoil anything, but I NEED the next book. This one worked perfectly as an introduction—setting up the main characters, their pasts, their trauma, and giving us just enough of the world to leave me desperate for more.
I appreciated that it was an entry point without dragging. B didn’t waste time, she got me hooked right away. The vibes? Raven Boys meets Mortal Instruments meets adult romantasy with a side of abuse and trauma.
Honestly, I can already see this as a killer TV show.
June 19, 2025
Let’s start with Luke, the things I want to do to this man have even shocked myself, all of them dark and sadistic but justified in my opinion. I loathed the man
Jettson is an absolute sweetheart and the way he is with Averie is so refreshing. No kid gloves just authentically himself. So well written.
Averie at the start my heart broke for her, everything she endured but to watch her grow and become the person she did was amazing to read. Love every minute of her development.
Dahlia is brilliant and quirky definitely hoping to hear more on her story.
All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to see where the next one takes us
Jettson is an absolute sweetheart and the way he is with Averie is so refreshing. No kid gloves just authentically himself. So well written.
Averie at the start my heart broke for her, everything she endured but to watch her grow and become the person she did was amazing to read. Love every minute of her development.
Dahlia is brilliant and quirky definitely hoping to hear more on her story.
All in all I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and can’t wait to see where the next one takes us
June 9, 2025
I got to watch this story unfold from the very beginning and I could not be more proud of this author!
If you love Charmed & Lucifer, then this book will be for you.
Between the magic and the spice, you won’t be able to put it down. Promise.
Averie is a total badass and her character development is 10/10
Luke is, well my momma taught me if I don’t have nothing nice to say, then it’s best to say nothin’ at all…
Jettson……. Daddy? Sorry. Daddy? Sorry. Daddy???
If you love Charmed & Lucifer, then this book will be for you.
Between the magic and the spice, you won’t be able to put it down. Promise.
Averie is a total badass and her character development is 10/10
Luke is, well my momma taught me if I don’t have nothing nice to say, then it’s best to say nothin’ at all…
Jettson……. Daddy? Sorry. Daddy? Sorry. Daddy???
June 16, 2025
Spoilers? Maybe?
Omg! 🤯 I could not put it down! I was pulled in so deep into the book I just had to keep reading. Anytime I had to stop I couldn’t wait to get back to it. This book had a hold on me and I was shocked at the twist and turns it took. Averie is a badass and Jettson along for the ride with a little helping hand for Averie. Luke can kick rocks and never return. B Wills did amazing with this story and I cannot wait for more!
Omg! 🤯 I could not put it down! I was pulled in so deep into the book I just had to keep reading. Anytime I had to stop I couldn’t wait to get back to it. This book had a hold on me and I was shocked at the twist and turns it took. Averie is a badass and Jettson along for the ride with a little helping hand for Averie. Luke can kick rocks and never return. B Wills did amazing with this story and I cannot wait for more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
Wow I absolutely loved this book I couldn’t put it down just when you think you knew what was going on. It would throw you off again, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough i loved the twists and how it was written the author made me feel all sorts of emotions, I found this an easy read and I can’t wait for more.
I love how you grew to love certain characters but also really disliked some.
I love how you grew to love certain characters but also really disliked some.
June 18, 2025
Ahhhh! This book is so perfect! I didn't want to put it down at all. I love all the mystery, magic and the characters are amazing. 😍 I can't believe the ending and I can't wait for the next one! Absolutely 5 stars.
September 1, 2025
Holy smokes! I could not put this down!! I was totally caught off guard where this story went. I kept thinking okay, I know where this is headed. Then BAM plot twist after plot twist! I went into this book kind of blind, I knew it was a paranormal romance, but I didn’t read anything about the book, so I did not expect anything that happened in this! This book just kept getting better and better! Averie is a badass who you’ll absolutely love! If you like a book with spice (that still has a plot), great banter, magical elements, and feminine rage this book is for you!!!
November 20, 2025
Pleasantly surprised...
Went in blind thinking this was just a domestic darker romance...but came out a a paranormal dark romance. Thoroughly enjoyed and where's the next...
Went in blind thinking this was just a domestic darker romance...but came out a a paranormal dark romance. Thoroughly enjoyed and where's the next...
June 16, 2025
If you are looking for a book that curbs all your favorite genres, then THIS IS FOR YOU! Dark romance, fantasy & awareness all wrapped in one. B is one of those authors that leave you wanting more. This is my first time reading her work & I can honestly say… IM READY FOR MORE!
June 29, 2025
If you're looking for a dark romantasy,this one is for you! It's just the beginning, so get ready to fall in love with the characters! B really gives you an in-depth sight of the characters, so you know exactly why they move the way they do, which I personally loved!
Her writing style is easy to read, no hang-ups or dissection of a sentence to figure out what she means!
She hits on real-life situations & people respond in real-life ways. That's what drew me in first! It will incite a little anger, empathy, and laughter! The characters show growth & many facets of themselves and that makes them relatable & very mysterious, strong, sassy, stern, wise, all the things!
Her writing style is easy to read, no hang-ups or dissection of a sentence to figure out what she means!
She hits on real-life situations & people respond in real-life ways. That's what drew me in first! It will incite a little anger, empathy, and laughter! The characters show growth & many facets of themselves and that makes them relatable & very mysterious, strong, sassy, stern, wise, all the things!
July 22, 2025
Rating: 4.25 🌟
Holy cow, where do I begin?
B Wills became a fave author of mine when I read Shadows & Starlight, and this book definitely does not disappoint. I absolutely looooove paranormal romance, and the different elements in this book made the spooks jump right off the page.
Shifters? Check. Secret society with questionable intentions? Check. A romance that will have you screaming and squealing? Also check.
Absolutely adored this book, and I can’t wait to see what the series has in store
Holy cow, where do I begin?
B Wills became a fave author of mine when I read Shadows & Starlight, and this book definitely does not disappoint. I absolutely looooove paranormal romance, and the different elements in this book made the spooks jump right off the page.
Shifters? Check. Secret society with questionable intentions? Check. A romance that will have you screaming and squealing? Also check.
Absolutely adored this book, and I can’t wait to see what the series has in store
August 17, 2025
Okay, let me just scream into the Goodreads void real quick. I stumbled on B. Wills completely by accident (thanks, TikTok live) and had no clue what I was getting into. All I knew was: shifters, but nothing like any mainstream books have. Say less. I one-clicked the Kindle version and devoured it in a single sitting like a freaking gremlin.
The book starts with a marriage that looks “fine” from the outside but is anything but. For the record, I’ve never experienced abuse myself (married to a full-on green flag over here 🌱) but I have been in those situations where you plaster on a smile, act like everything’s normal, and swallow the pain because it feels safer. B writes that fake perfection and quiet anguish so well it punched me right in the chest.
Then the house with all its creepy, unsettling vibes, the husband gives off “something is definitely wrong with this man” energy, and his cousin arrives with tension so thick you could cut it.
This story has:
• forbidden romance that made me want to throw the whole (abusive) husband away
• a magical world bubbling under the surface that I need more of
• an FMC so relatable I want to give her a hug and be book besties
• and an ending that made me yell “are you kidding me right now?! ITS OVER?! I NEED MORE!”
The vibe? Raven Boys meets Mortal Instruments meets a messed up forbidden summer romance, except darker and more magical.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but just know this: it starts like a domestic thriller and then flips into full paranormal/fantasy goodness. I loved the characters, I loved the worldbuilding, and I already need the next book.
The book starts with a marriage that looks “fine” from the outside but is anything but. For the record, I’ve never experienced abuse myself (married to a full-on green flag over here 🌱) but I have been in those situations where you plaster on a smile, act like everything’s normal, and swallow the pain because it feels safer. B writes that fake perfection and quiet anguish so well it punched me right in the chest.
Then the house with all its creepy, unsettling vibes, the husband gives off “something is definitely wrong with this man” energy, and his cousin arrives with tension so thick you could cut it.
This story has:
• forbidden romance that made me want to throw the whole (abusive) husband away
• a magical world bubbling under the surface that I need more of
• an FMC so relatable I want to give her a hug and be book besties
• and an ending that made me yell “are you kidding me right now?! ITS OVER?! I NEED MORE!”
The vibe? Raven Boys meets Mortal Instruments meets a messed up forbidden summer romance, except darker and more magical.
I don’t want to spoil anything, but just know this: it starts like a domestic thriller and then flips into full paranormal/fantasy goodness. I loved the characters, I loved the worldbuilding, and I already need the next book.
August 15, 2025
B wills absolutely has outdone herself once again with a masterpiece. There are triggers including domestic violence, SA, dark related content material, some spice, etc. so if that will trigger you I wouldn’t continue. Following averie throughout this story I wanted to weep for her, all the things her husband who is suppose to love her did to her was absolutely horrible. But averie finds out some deep dark secrets and she’s not as weak as you think, she’s much stronger and powerful than you think. We absolutely love jettson (who is Averie’s husbands cousin). The way him and Averie just instantly clicked and the instant chemistry between the two. He is what everyone would hope for in a man. He stays by Averie’s side and tries to help her in the situation she is in. He tries not to over step but they are just drawn to each other like a magnet! The plots and twists in this story had me at the edge of my seat! I can’t wait for book two and all the twists and surprise b will give me again! Absolutely one of my favorite authors ever!
August 17, 2025
you are your own hero
As always, check your triggers! But if you love a good dark romance where the heroin finds herself and saves herself, you will love this story. We all love a good romance, we love getting out of a terrible situation, but nothing beats finding the self love and confidence in your own self to come out on top. It is such a good story that shows that, on top of a killer love story: you will scream and yell and hate characters. You will cheer other characters on you have a little slow burn that you’ll be screaming “Just kiss her” in on top of a powerful occult, supernatural themes, which I love so if you’re into that, with a witchy paranormal story that will leave you begging for more this is definitely for you! I can’t wait for the the next one.
As always, check your triggers! But if you love a good dark romance where the heroin finds herself and saves herself, you will love this story. We all love a good romance, we love getting out of a terrible situation, but nothing beats finding the self love and confidence in your own self to come out on top. It is such a good story that shows that, on top of a killer love story: you will scream and yell and hate characters. You will cheer other characters on you have a little slow burn that you’ll be screaming “Just kiss her” in on top of a powerful occult, supernatural themes, which I love so if you’re into that, with a witchy paranormal story that will leave you begging for more this is definitely for you! I can’t wait for the the next one.
August 19, 2025
What a great read! Pacing is amazing and it had me gripped. In fact this got me out of the BIGGEST slump. Really have to commend the author for how she treated these big subjects with such care. As a PTSD girlie this felt real and relatable without making me feel like I was back there. I really enjoyed this and it felt so fresh and new. The magic world has me gripped too and I'm so excited to read more. Bring on book 2!!!
August 17, 2025
The way that I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting was probably unhealthy but needed to be done. I honestly couldn’t put it down, the story just drew me in and I needed to know how it ended.
There are some heavy themes in the book so please read your triggers.
The way that Averie slowly reclaims herself was absolutely amazing. I honestly think that might be the major reason why I couldn’t put it down.
I absolutely loved that in this book instead of the MMC having the ‘f*ck it’ moment, we get the FMC having that moment instead and I was kicking my feet!
So, if you need a new book, definitely pick it up!
There are some heavy themes in the book so please read your triggers.
The way that Averie slowly reclaims herself was absolutely amazing. I honestly think that might be the major reason why I couldn’t put it down.
I absolutely loved that in this book instead of the MMC having the ‘f*ck it’ moment, we get the FMC having that moment instead and I was kicking my feet!
So, if you need a new book, definitely pick it up!
July 16, 2025
Read as an ARC, and I am honored to have been chosen!! Chasing the Flame gutted me in the best possible way. From the very first page, I felt like I was Averie—trapped in a life that looks fine from the outside but is quietly suffocating. Her pain, her longing, her need for something more—it was so real, it hurt.
And then Jettson. Oh, Jettson. He is all grit and bruised tenderness, and the way he sees Averie—really sees her—left me breathless. Their connection isn’t just romantic; it’s survival. It’s slow-burn, tension-filled, and aching in all the right ways.
B. Wills writes broken people with such care and honesty. I highlighted so many lines that made me pause and feel seen in ways I didn’t expect. This book isn’t just about love—it’s about reclaiming your voice, your fire, and your freedom.
If you’ve ever stayed quiet when you wanted to scream, if you’ve ever longed for someone to notice what you’re hiding—read this book. You won’t forget it.
And then Jettson. Oh, Jettson. He is all grit and bruised tenderness, and the way he sees Averie—really sees her—left me breathless. Their connection isn’t just romantic; it’s survival. It’s slow-burn, tension-filled, and aching in all the right ways.
B. Wills writes broken people with such care and honesty. I highlighted so many lines that made me pause and feel seen in ways I didn’t expect. This book isn’t just about love—it’s about reclaiming your voice, your fire, and your freedom.
If you’ve ever stayed quiet when you wanted to scream, if you’ve ever longed for someone to notice what you’re hiding—read this book. You won’t forget it.
July 15, 2025
First I just want to give a great big BRAVO to the author. Not only did she touch on a very hard topic, but she left you wanting more.
Averie is a loyal and fierce woman who finds herself in a terrible situation. When introduced to Jettson, she finds herself wondering if there isn’t more to life. Unfortunately she finds out the hard way the answer to that question, but also finds the shocking truth about herself and her family lineage.
This book left me with not wanting to put my phone down, craving more and with the desire to find out, no NEED to know what happens next. If you’re looking for love, action, suspense and thriller all wrapped into one book, then you’ve got to read Chasing The Flame, Book 1 of the Sacred Flames of Ruin. I promise you will not be disappointed.
Averie is a loyal and fierce woman who finds herself in a terrible situation. When introduced to Jettson, she finds herself wondering if there isn’t more to life. Unfortunately she finds out the hard way the answer to that question, but also finds the shocking truth about herself and her family lineage.
This book left me with not wanting to put my phone down, craving more and with the desire to find out, no NEED to know what happens next. If you’re looking for love, action, suspense and thriller all wrapped into one book, then you’ve got to read Chasing The Flame, Book 1 of the Sacred Flames of Ruin. I promise you will not be disappointed.
August 16, 2025
I can’t even find the words to say just how much I loved this book. The plot is perfect, with its twists and turns that kept you guessing on what would happen next. It is truly a captivating read. Once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I felt like I knew the characters on a personal level and absolutely loved them by the end. I really hope there will be more to this book, because I need more.
August 7, 2025
This book is absolutely amazing. B does a great job at keeping my your attention regardless of whose perspective you get. The story flows wonderfully and it touches on some real triggering issues for me personally but reminded me to embrace the wonderful woman i am.
August 1, 2025
One word... WOW! I will start by saying PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS! I loved this book from the very first page. I didn't want to put it down, and when I had to, I couldn't wait to get back to it! With every turn of the page, the plot thickens. Just when you think you have it figured out, well you dont. I felt so many emotions for the FMC throughout the entire book that left me in a choke hold and gutted me. Some good, some not so good! If you like paranormal dark romantasy, then this book is definitely one you should read. It ended on a cliffhanger and I cant wait to read more! Excited to see where it goes! This was my first time reading from this author, but it definitely won't be the last! As always... HAPPY READING!
August 4, 2025
I went into this book not knowing what to expect and it really surprised me with how much I liked it! Paranormal romance is not my typical genre but I loved this author’s previous novel so I decided to give it a try and I’m glad I did! The characters really captured me and were definitely this book’s strongest point! I hope in book 2 there is a bit more lore and world building because I am so intrigued and have so many questions! Overall a great read!
August 16, 2025
You know the books that drag on every single situation until you’re wanting to poke your eyes out? This is not one of them! I loved every second of this book. The plot moved along so well I never found myself feeling like I wanted to flip ahead to make sure it got a move on 🤣. I loved how the MFC progressed and watching her growth was amazing. I am SO nervous about what the next book will bring but I’m so excited to read what will happen next.
August 16, 2025
what a great dark romantasy book! Literally started and finished this book in one sitting which I have never done before! Definitely did not see the plot twist coming. The characters and the plot was a chefs kiss! I will definitely be recommending we read this book at my book club when it is released !
July 31, 2025
Wow I can't express enough how much i enjoyed this emotional rollercoaster. she made me feel every emotion possible through this book. there were several dark themes throughout but we also saw redemption of a woman finding her strength in herself, and I absolutely love that! also ps who doesn't like a bearded mountain man that gives a cosy cottage core vibe
August 1, 2025
This book kept me on the edge of my seat page after page. Think you have it figured out by chapter one like I usually do? NOPE PLOT TWIST!!! B really knows how to portray a story, characters, and scenes, and this one is no different. You gotta give this one a read!!
July 29, 2025
❤️ Where do I even start?! 🥰
I love Averie she is such a strong woman and Jettson is just perfection! Check the trigger warning before reading just in case but I ate every bit of this book up! The build up to the magic reveal was so good! I can’t wait for the next book!!!
I love Averie she is such a strong woman and Jettson is just perfection! Check the trigger warning before reading just in case but I ate every bit of this book up! The build up to the magic reveal was so good! I can’t wait for the next book!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews