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A Dance of Thorns and Petals
Eighteen men enter the arena. Only one will survive. And one of them… is not a man at all.
When her twin brother is chosen to fight in the Emperor’s deadly Thorn Trials, a brutal, five-round competition where the victor wins the crown and the hand of the princess, nineteen-year-old Evaine Vale makes a desperate decision.
She cuts her hair. Binds her chest. And takes his place.
Now disguised as her brother, she must outwit and outlast seventeen others in a bloodstained arena filled with shifting terrain, vicious beasts, and deadly traps. But as the trials grow more brutal, Evaine finds herself drawn to a forbidden love, Cassian Varo, a strong, mysterious competitor with secrets of his own, and a touch that sets her blood on fire.
With every round, Evaine gets closer to the final battle, and closer to the truth she’s been hiding. But if the court discovers her secret, she’ll be executed before she can ever claim victory.
In a world of roses and thorns, lies and longing, what happens when love blooms where death was planted?
Book One of the A Dance of Thorns and Petals Trilogy
A spellbinding romantic fantasy full of court intrigue, slow-burn passion, and a heroine who dares to defy an empire.
Fans of Fourth Wing, The Hunger Games, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and The Prison Healer will fall hard for this slow-burn romantasy brimming with forbidden love, deadly trials, and a heroine who risks everything for the truth, and for the boy who was never meant to love her.
When her twin brother is chosen to fight in the Emperor’s deadly Thorn Trials, a brutal, five-round competition where the victor wins the crown and the hand of the princess, nineteen-year-old Evaine Vale makes a desperate decision.
She cuts her hair. Binds her chest. And takes his place.
Now disguised as her brother, she must outwit and outlast seventeen others in a bloodstained arena filled with shifting terrain, vicious beasts, and deadly traps. But as the trials grow more brutal, Evaine finds herself drawn to a forbidden love, Cassian Varo, a strong, mysterious competitor with secrets of his own, and a touch that sets her blood on fire.
With every round, Evaine gets closer to the final battle, and closer to the truth she’s been hiding. But if the court discovers her secret, she’ll be executed before she can ever claim victory.
In a world of roses and thorns, lies and longing, what happens when love blooms where death was planted?
Book One of the A Dance of Thorns and Petals Trilogy
A spellbinding romantic fantasy full of court intrigue, slow-burn passion, and a heroine who dares to defy an empire.
Fans of Fourth Wing, The Hunger Games, A Court of Thorns and Roses, and The Prison Healer will fall hard for this slow-burn romantasy brimming with forbidden love, deadly trials, and a heroine who risks everything for the truth, and for the boy who was never meant to love her.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 17, 2025
35 people are currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Rohrbaugh
104 books23 followersBrandon Rohrbaugh writes across fantasy, Romance, horror, and children’s books. He’s a dad of four, passionate about stories that challenge fear and spark adventure. Whether you dive into the bold world of A Dance of Thorns & Petals, explore a creepy phobia article, or follow his writing journey, Brandon creates worlds you’ll remember.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 24, 2025
This was such an easy read for me. I finished it in one day. Parts of the book were a little repetitive for me but the story is addictive. It ends on a cliffhanger which was to be expected since this is book one of three. I definitely recommend picking this up if you are a fan of the Hunger Games books.
June 12, 2025
4.25-4.5 stars. Definitely Hunger Games vibes.
This was definitely a page turner that I didn’t want to put down.
The descriptions of the clothing, the different stages of the arena made you feel like you were there.
The edge of your seat anticipation to see if/when “Evin” gives in to her secrets.
Now I need the next installment to see what happens!!
This was definitely a page turner that I didn’t want to put down.
The descriptions of the clothing, the different stages of the arena made you feel like you were there.
The edge of your seat anticipation to see if/when “Evin” gives in to her secrets.
Now I need the next installment to see what happens!!
June 19, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! While it is definitely a slow burn, it’s worth it in the end! I can’t wait for book two because I have questions that need answers!
September 7, 2025
Started off as a copy of Hunger Games and blend of Mulan. Then, the names, copies from other books, like Jennifer Armentrout's series.
Super confused why the MFC was "falling in love" with the MMC after one trial and a few interactions. The MMC also is protective of the MFC, but for no reason. I just could not comprehend why the MMC wanted to help her. The MFC is so hot and cold. She wants his attention, then she doesn't, then does and kisses him, and then she doesn't when he wants her, etc. This push and pull didnt logically make any sense since the writing didn’t include much. There was zero chemistry development written between the two… they just liked or loved each other.
The story is chunky and needed more context and story to transition from one part to the next.
Additionally, there is information missing. Zero information was given how the MFC showered or went to the bathroom. This information was fully neglected and that was a major plot hole, as she lives in the barracks and trains with only men. How did she do these things and not get caught? When did she do these things?
As other reviews note, incredibly repetitive. The amount of times the MFC thought about how she had not slept or how she just wanted to tell the MMC her secret but her mouth just couldn't move. This cycle happened so much and was written in the same way. Or, the amount of times she thought how the bindings each day were getting tighter and tighter. So much repeating of certain aspects while completely neglecting other aspects of the story that were important.
Overall, this book lacked originality and there needed to be more writing/narrative to make a more cohesive story.
Third, SHAME on Amazon for using AI for the audio. Hire a voice actor. Audio was terrible and I quit and moved to the book.
Super confused why the MFC was "falling in love" with the MMC after one trial and a few interactions. The MMC also is protective of the MFC, but for no reason. I just could not comprehend why the MMC wanted to help her. The MFC is so hot and cold. She wants his attention, then she doesn't, then does and kisses him, and then she doesn't when he wants her, etc. This push and pull didnt logically make any sense since the writing didn’t include much. There was zero chemistry development written between the two… they just liked or loved each other.
The story is chunky and needed more context and story to transition from one part to the next.
Additionally, there is information missing. Zero information was given how the MFC showered or went to the bathroom. This information was fully neglected and that was a major plot hole, as she lives in the barracks and trains with only men. How did she do these things and not get caught? When did she do these things?
As other reviews note, incredibly repetitive. The amount of times the MFC thought about how she had not slept or how she just wanted to tell the MMC her secret but her mouth just couldn't move. This cycle happened so much and was written in the same way. Or, the amount of times she thought how the bindings each day were getting tighter and tighter. So much repeating of certain aspects while completely neglecting other aspects of the story that were important.
Overall, this book lacked originality and there needed to be more writing/narrative to make a more cohesive story.
Third, SHAME on Amazon for using AI for the audio. Hire a voice actor. Audio was terrible and I quit and moved to the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
Initial impression of A Dance of Thorns and Petals is Mulan in Hunger Games within a Game of Thrones setting.
Trials & tribulations. Lust & misery. Finding self & purpose to push.
I got this book as an advanced reader's copy and leaving my honest review in return.
I found this to be a quick read, as the plot points and progression of the story became predictable and repetitive throughout the chapters, making the content feel like a rinse and repeat process. This support character said this once, and will likely say it again - multiple times. The way some plot points were introduced and then quickly dropped puzzled me, despite the expected focus on particular characters. However even through some confusion, my desire to know what happens next remains undeterred as the underlying plot pushes the idea of something bigger is at play and is happening now.
Trials & tribulations. Lust & misery. Finding self & purpose to push.
I got this book as an advanced reader's copy and leaving my honest review in return.
I found this to be a quick read, as the plot points and progression of the story became predictable and repetitive throughout the chapters, making the content feel like a rinse and repeat process. This support character said this once, and will likely say it again - multiple times. The way some plot points were introduced and then quickly dropped puzzled me, despite the expected focus on particular characters. However even through some confusion, my desire to know what happens next remains undeterred as the underlying plot pushes the idea of something bigger is at play and is happening now.
July 8, 2025
I love the premise of this book, a girl going undercover to protect her brother. It had very strong Hunger Games vibes but was interesting and entertaining in it's own right.
Unfortunately it started off strong but then the inconsistencies became too frequent and would take me out of the story. Once I hit the 60% mark it got confusing because things were repeated out of order and parts started to not make sense. With a good editor and some polishing this could be an amazing story.
It's an overall good and interesting story though and I'm happy that I read it. I loved Evaine masquerading as her brother to protect him and all she had to go through. The secret relationship with Cassian was enjoyable to read. I do wish we could have gotten a chapter or two from Cassians point of view to really round out the story.
Unfortunately it started off strong but then the inconsistencies became too frequent and would take me out of the story. Once I hit the 60% mark it got confusing because things were repeated out of order and parts started to not make sense. With a good editor and some polishing this could be an amazing story.
It's an overall good and interesting story though and I'm happy that I read it. I loved Evaine masquerading as her brother to protect him and all she had to go through. The secret relationship with Cassian was enjoyable to read. I do wish we could have gotten a chapter or two from Cassians point of view to really round out the story.
June 18, 2025
Love this story!
We have a girl living in a small village. Her father was called to participate in the Thorn Trials, something the Emperor started. She lost her father to the Trials. This time around, her twin brother has been called to participate. However, she decides to go in his place so she cuts her hair off, wears his clothes and off she goes to the capital. This is really a fantastic story. A story of love and death and corruption and rebellion. The writing style fits the story perfectly, the characters are all engaging and the plot just moves right along. Of course, now I have to wait for the next part of the story to come out so I can find out what happens next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily leaving this review.
We have a girl living in a small village. Her father was called to participate in the Thorn Trials, something the Emperor started. She lost her father to the Trials. This time around, her twin brother has been called to participate. However, she decides to go in his place so she cuts her hair off, wears his clothes and off she goes to the capital. This is really a fantastic story. A story of love and death and corruption and rebellion. The writing style fits the story perfectly, the characters are all engaging and the plot just moves right along. Of course, now I have to wait for the next part of the story to come out so I can find out what happens next.
I received an advanced reader’s copy and am voluntarily leaving this review.
June 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
-Trials
-Forbidden Love
-Friends/Competitors to Lovers
I read this as an ARC, but this review is freely given, and all opinions are my own.
During the first few chapters, I kept thinking “this is giving Hunger Games x Mulan vibes”. Definitely similar vibes throughout the entire book! I enjoyed the banter between Evaine and Cassian, as well as the friendship that they built. I was so frustrated with Evaine on several occasions because of the repeated dialogue, and I seriously wanted to smack her. I wish she had opened up to Cassian earlier instead of giving the “I can’t tell you; I’m trying to protect you”” monologue.
Overall really enjoyed the book & I'm excited to read book 2 whenever it comes out!
-Trials
-Forbidden Love
-Friends/Competitors to Lovers
I read this as an ARC, but this review is freely given, and all opinions are my own.
During the first few chapters, I kept thinking “this is giving Hunger Games x Mulan vibes”. Definitely similar vibes throughout the entire book! I enjoyed the banter between Evaine and Cassian, as well as the friendship that they built. I was so frustrated with Evaine on several occasions because of the repeated dialogue, and I seriously wanted to smack her. I wish she had opened up to Cassian earlier instead of giving the “I can’t tell you; I’m trying to protect you”” monologue.
Overall really enjoyed the book & I'm excited to read book 2 whenever it comes out!
June 17, 2025
This book was definitely a page turner; it kept you wanting more there the entire book. I did really enjoy it and the Hunger Games vibes it was giving. It could have used another edit; there were a few inconsistencies I noticed through the book and the timelines didn't always match up. It was a little distracting, though not enough to detract from the overall story. The story of Evaine disguised as her brother and putting herself into the trials in place of her brother only to end up in love with another competitor (Cassian) is worth the read. I will be waiting for book 2 to come out so I can see where the story goes next.
June 18, 2025
"You're not the first to wear a lie, Sweetheart. But if you want yours to survive the week, we need to make it beautiful."
This story is amazing. Hunger Games on steroids. This book had it all: lies, secrets, rebellion, danger, bloodshed, love, protectiveness, betrayal, and so much more. I was sucked in as soon as I read the dedication, and the only reason I set it down and didn't finish in one sitting was because I had to work. The descriptions and imagery made it so easy to picture the world and then transport myself into it. I feel like my heart was pounding along with Evanie's the entire time. I definitely recommend.
This story is amazing. Hunger Games on steroids. This book had it all: lies, secrets, rebellion, danger, bloodshed, love, protectiveness, betrayal, and so much more. I was sucked in as soon as I read the dedication, and the only reason I set it down and didn't finish in one sitting was because I had to work. The descriptions and imagery made it so easy to picture the world and then transport myself into it. I feel like my heart was pounding along with Evanie's the entire time. I definitely recommend.
June 16, 2025
I received this book as an arc, so this is my honest review and opinion!
I liked the story and it was a good read, however I feel like it lacked on originality as far as plot and character names.
I still had a good time reading it and it was fast paced and kept you wanting to know what was going to happen.
I liked the main characters well enough, I just wasn’t obsessed over them.
There are a few spelling and grammatical errors, but it’s not enough to derail from the story.
All in all it’s a good read especially if you enjoy the hunger games, Acotar, or fourth wing!
I liked the story and it was a good read, however I feel like it lacked on originality as far as plot and character names.
I still had a good time reading it and it was fast paced and kept you wanting to know what was going to happen.
I liked the main characters well enough, I just wasn’t obsessed over them.
There are a few spelling and grammatical errors, but it’s not enough to derail from the story.
All in all it’s a good read especially if you enjoy the hunger games, Acotar, or fourth wing!
June 17, 2025
I was given an ARC of this book I absolutely loved it and couldn’t put it down! This is book one in a trilogy and i cannot wait for the rest of the series and didn’t want it to end. The writing is so descriptive and I felt like I was there and immersed in the fight scenes and couldn’t help but want the characters to be together and fight their way through everything together.
June 30, 2025
This is so raw - it was almost painful to read this. If you like Rory Surtain's Demon in Exile series, this romantasy is going to grab you and not let go.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 23, 2025
Definitely has hunger game vibes! I’m not much on this particular genre, but I really did enjoy this book!
July 2, 2025
This book was definitely giving me Hunger Game vibes. Which is in no way a bad thing as HG was a huge hit and something I treasure from my childhood. This book made me feel like I was a part of the story and kept me wanting more. If I could give it a 3.5 I would.
July 2, 2025
Dark, romantic, and full of twists. With a strong heroine hiding her identity and fighting her way through danger, it gave me total Mulan vibes. A slow start, but the enemies-to-lovers tension and gothic worldbuilding made it worth it.
July 24, 2025
For those who enjoy slowburn, Mulan style “I’ll take their place,” a Hunger Games style regime, and five trials for life or death, this one is for you!
I honestly did not expect to like this book as much as I did. A little bit of spice, a lot of slow burn building up to it, and a lot of trials and tribulations and proving your worth.
This novel had a unique magic system. We hear a lot about it but don’t yet see a whole lot. You can tell that’s it’s building toward something big though.
I really enjoyed Elaine as a character. She’s strong enough to take her brother’s place in the trials and stand on her own. She also knows how her mother views her worth and wants to be the support for her family.
The tension between her and Cassian is wonderful. Very much in the style of the movie “She’s the man.”
And that plot twist! You will not expect the ending. Go read.
I honestly did not expect to like this book as much as I did. A little bit of spice, a lot of slow burn building up to it, and a lot of trials and tribulations and proving your worth.
This novel had a unique magic system. We hear a lot about it but don’t yet see a whole lot. You can tell that’s it’s building toward something big though.
I really enjoyed Elaine as a character. She’s strong enough to take her brother’s place in the trials and stand on her own. She also knows how her mother views her worth and wants to be the support for her family.
The tension between her and Cassian is wonderful. Very much in the style of the movie “She’s the man.”
And that plot twist! You will not expect the ending. Go read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews