These Unseen Blooms

Rendworld Trilogy #2

by Avery Carter

"Barely a lightcycle after the assassin left town, a dragon landed in the square."

Tarinne has done a lot of difficult things in her life, but saying goodbye to Rylla was the hardest of all. Sneaking back into the city where the king demands she return to service is no easy task, either. Tarinne can't afford to be distracted, no matter how much she misses her healer. Of course, running into her ex doesn't help.

Meanwhile, Rylla has a dragon-sized problem of her own. The mythical beast is demanding that Rylla heal her daughter, but there's one problem. How in the world do you heal a dragon? And why is her best friend calling the dragon "Mom"?

These Unseen Blooms is the highly anticipated sequel to This Delicate Flame.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, LGBT

237 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 9, 2025

About the author

Avery Carter is an English teacher and walking art museum, covered in tattoos, ocean blue hair tied out of their face, and square, purple glasses. They proudly proclaim that they are the "coolest person you know" to their students, and spend each day trying to live up to that title. They are a nonbinary queer author living in South Korea with their wife and two dogs. They spend their days writing new stories, and teaching their students to love words as much as they do.

Reviews

[Emilie]

Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of These Unseen Blooms! As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.

4.75 stars rounded up

✨ Sapphic Cozy Romantasy
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 0.5/5 Spice Level
✨ Book 2 in a Trilogy
✨ Rep: autistic MC, bisexual rep

I recommend if you enjoy…
- This Delicate Flame (the first book)
- Cozy fantasy
- Unique world-building
- Cottage-core vibes
- Dragons
- Genuine relationships

Content warnings after review.

Initial Thoughts
I could not wait to get into this book! I absolutely loved This Delicate Flame. I am obsessed with Tarinne, and I NEEDED to know what happened next. Thankfully I didn’t have to wait too long!

Plot
Since Tarinne and Rylla are apart for this book, the story goes back and forth between each of them following along their different… side quests, if you will. Both kept my interest, and merged back together in a way at the end.

Characters
There were quite a few more side characters introduced in this book which I really enjoyed. I am hoping to see more of them in the next book, possibly? Of course, I am still as obsessed with Tarinne as ever… and I have a lot of thoughts on Ceri, but I don’t want to spoil anything~

Romance
Sadly Tarinne and Rylla were away from each other in this book… but there was still some flirting between them (which I lived for). There were some really sweet romances between some of the side characters though, which I enjoyed. I really can’t wait to see Tarinne and Rylla back together in the next book though!

World-building
The world-building started in the first book was built upon in this book. Because both Rylla and Tarinne traveled to other areas, it really helped flesh out the world more. I also really loved how between chapters there were little nature illustrations and notes to go along with them. They were relevant to the storyline, but also just a great little addition to the world-building!

Final Thoughts
I really enjoy this series (my love for Tarinne continues). I am basically desperate to know what happens in the third book. I’m just happy I won’t have to wait very long. If you like cozy fantasy, this is a great series! I enjoy that the books aren’t too long or drawn out (which makes them feel even cozier to me!).

(beware potential spoilers below)

Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
bl*od, g*re, violence, s*xual content, mentions of self-h*rm, discussions of bodily autonomy, references to child ab*se, depictions of cPTSD, references to childhood s*xual ab*se

[Nathaniel]

I was enjoying this book so much that I woke up at 5AM to finish it. Now I’m sad I don’t have book three on hand. This series is excellent so far.

[Magnolia]

After This Delicate Flame, I couldn't wait to know what would become of Rylla and Tarinne, and to learn more about their world. This second book didn't disappoint, and now I can't wait for the third!

I loved how much this book expanded on the worldbuilding that was already intriguing me in book 1. We especially get to spend a fair amount of pages with a version of dragons that is both imposing and really funny, and we meet cats with a turtle shell and bat wings!

The side characters also get cooler and cooler. We learn a lot more about Rylla's best friend, Nairra the innkeeper, and meet more cool people, like the dragons mum-daughter duo Frae and Ninno on Rylla's side, and loyal friend and guard Ben and headstrong Renddweller teen Alre, not to mention deadly-sexy assassin Ceri on Tarinne's side. They all take turns as the coolest person on the page, and the story is all the more compelling because of them. Witnessing Rylla and Tarinne's world expand is a real treat.

From now on, the review may contain/imply spoilers for both books.






The setup for this book was interesting and cool: after seeing how Rylla and Tarinne developed as characters through their time together in book 1, we get to see their character growth sediment and develop individually as their adventures continue apart. We get lots of pining and magical long-distance communication, and the cruelty of two lovers being forced to spend time apart just as their romance is beginning to blossom. Amazing.

In this book, we get to see both Rylla and Tarinne grow their comfort zone so much through challenges and difficulties.
Tarinne is forced to face her past and we see how caring for Rylla has led her to open up to caring for others too; she is no longer the cold assassin who keeps people at arm's length. As she says, she's grown. There were parts where I felt that her former mistrustful personality would have served her better, but we live and we learn, and there is a third book coming, so I'm confident Tarinne will have time to find balance between caring and being careful. And also, she's under tremendous pressure in this book, so I can't really fault her that much for seeking help in places that are... not optimal.

Rylla has also grown. Dear grumpy Rylla, who for all her grumbling about patients and children in the first book, doesn't hesitate to leave her routine and safe spaces behind for the chance to find a cure to what's plaguing the village's children. As a fellow autistic woman, watching Rylla grapple with negotiating her boundaries and needs in an unfamiliar environment, all the while striving to do her best as a healer, was awe-inspiring. She is becoming so resilient and also more secure in herself. That said, she goes through difficult times in this book, and I'm glad she had people to help during those.

My one tiny conundrum with this plot is purely medical, and I'll hide it because it's a big spoiler.
I think Ninno would have had an easier time with birth if Rylla had recommended that she stay a dragon rather than stay a human. Especially since Rylla cautioned against changing her body to avoid stress, then when Ninno was close to birth, it came out that she probably could have changed and just laid the egg as a dragon. I just had this immediate thought from the moment she felt the horns in Ninno's belly, and I wish more had been said to explain why this wasn't an option, aside from the stress to Ninno's body, which seemed like a bit of a vague explanation. That said, it was an unprecedented event in Rylla's experience, so I guess she was learning it all as she went. It was lovely to see her in her dedicated healer capacity. It's truly a calling for her.

Overall, I can just say once again that I love this series and can't wait to read the third volume!

I received These Unseen Blooms as an ARC, and opinions are fully my own.

[Sapphic Reader]

Before you read my review, I just want to mention that I'm new to writing reviews, so if the formatting or style is a little awkward, I apologize! I'm still finding my reviewing style.❤️

These Unseen Blooms by Avery Carter

⭐Rating: 4.5/5
🌶️Spice: 1/5
💕Romance: 4.5/5
📖Genre: Adult Fantasy • LGBTQ+ Fantasy • Epic Fantasy
👥POV: Dual POV (Tarinne & Rylla)
🎂Age: Adult protagonists (early–mid 20s)

🌍Setting
World: Rendworld (fictional secondary world)
Time period:
A medieval-inspired fantasy world with kingdoms, swords, dragons, healers, and magic. No modern technology.

✨Fantasy Elements
Dragons
Healing magic
High fantasy world
Magical creatures
Ancient magic
Fantasy kingdoms
Political fantasy
Magic users
Fantasy religions/mythology
Magical healing
Found family
Royal politics

🏷️Tropes
Dragons
Healing magic
Found family
Political intrigue
Save the kingdom
Magical quest
Lovers separated
Second chance elements
Queer-normative world
Strong female leads
Slow burn

Characters:

FMC 1: Tarinne:

Personality:
Independent
Competent
Warrior
Protective
Loyal
Determined
Practical
Emotionally guarded
Brave
Self-sacrificing
Takes charge
Strong leader
Capable under pressure
Stubborn

Background:
Former royal assassin
Highly trained fighter
Works within political conflicts
Not wealthy
Carries emotional baggage
Constantly feels responsibility for others

Strengths:
Combat
Strategy
Leadership
Protecting others
Loyalty

Weaknesses:
Bottles up emotions
Doesn't ask for help
Can become overly self-sacrificing


FMC 2: Rylla

Personality:
Kind
Compassionate
Intelligent
Gentle
Optimistic
Empathetic
Patient
Quietly brave
Curious
Emotionally open

Background:
Healer
Magic user
Not physically powerful
Deeply caring
Often thrown into impossible situations

Strengths:
Healing magic
Compassion
Problem solving
Emotional intelligence

Weaknesses:
Doubts herself
Takes on too much responsibility
Wants to save everyone

⚠️Trigger Warnings
Violence
Childhood Sexual Abuse
Self Harm
Child Abuse
PTSD
Blood
Injury
Death
War
Political oppression
Emotional trauma
Grief
Family conflict
Threats
Magical illness
Medical scenes
Gore

💭My Review:

I really enjoyed returning to Rendworld! This sequel expands the world in some really exciting ways while keeping the heart of the story focused on Tarinne and Rylla.

One of my favorite parts was seeing how their relationship continued to grow despite being separated for much of the book. Their love feels incredibly genuine, and every reunion, conversation, and sacrifice reminded me why I loved them so much in the first book. Avery Carter writes relationships that feel healthy, supportive, and full of trust, which made them so easy to root for.

The dragons were definitely a highlight. I loved learning more about them and how they fit into the world's magic, and they added a sense of wonder and mystery that kept the story feeling fresh. The political intrigue also became more layered, making the stakes feel even higher than before.

The pacing did slow down in a few places, especially during some of the political discussions, and I occasionally wished a few plotlines moved a little faster. Since this is the middle book in a trilogy, it also spends a lot of time setting up future events rather than constantly delivering big payoffs.

Even so, the character development, expanding worldbuilding, and emotional moments made this a fantastic sequel. It left me even more invested in Tarinne and Rylla's journey, and I'm really looking forward to seeing how the trilogy concludes.

[Brandy]

The blend of fantasy elements, particularly the dragons and the intricate world-building, completely captivated me. The relationship between the healer and the assassin was unexpectedly compelling; their dynamic felt both believable and deeply romantic, adding a layer of emotional depth that resonated throughout the narrative.

What truly impressed me were the characters themselves. They were so well-developed and nuanced, each with their own compelling motivations and internal conflicts. I found myself deeply invested in their journeys and eagerly anticipating their fates. The author's skill in crafting such vivid personalities is remarkable. I genuinely couldn't put the book down – I was completely lost in its pages until the very last.

I received this ARC for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alia]

Dang, that was a fine second book! As I got entangled with other books, I had a constant desire to return for the second book, feeling a soft yearning that caught me off-guard.

What a pleasant surprise was to see the second book maturing and polished. Character separation in second books are tricky to pull and I liked very much how this one turned, devoured it actually. I was quickly immersed as Tarinne and Rylla grow and find a host of lovable new characters in the way.

The book gets darker, but with a constant balance of softness. Nice stuff!

[prachismusings]

I love Rylla and Tarianne so much. They're adorable, they deserve the world, and all they get is pain?? Cruel.

I’m rooting for them so hard, and if either of them dies... consider my will to live revoked.

Also, they didn’t even meet this book. Avery, be so serious right now. I’m glaring.

The plot was absolutely gripping as always, though. Twists, betrayal, drama— delivered to perfection.

All in all, this story continues to own my soul. Counting down the seconds till the next one.

[Devorah A. S.]

To be honest? Not *quite* as AMAZING/deep as the 1st of the series ("This Delicate Flame") but still rly, rly fun and cute!!

[EllasEnchantedReads]

These Unseen Blooms is book two in the Rendworld Trilogy, a fast paced and cozy dual POV sapphic romantasy with unique world building, layered characters, dragons, political intrigue, a slow burn forbidden romance and beautifully written lived-experience autism representation.

I loved book one and was so excited to dive into book two! This wholesome story continues with the assassin and her healer now off on their own adventures, but still able to communicate long distance (thank goodness!) through magic—and there is lots of pining and banter. I really enjoyed the intriguing storyline, plot twists, nuanced autism representation, dragon healing adventure (living for the dragon banter!), and Rylla’s incredible knowledge of medicinal botany. I can’t wait to see how this trilogy concludes!

Thank you so much to Avery Carter for this ARC and the opportunity to be on your ARC reader team!

[Ness (Vynexa)]

⭐️ 3.5 ⭐️

still really like this world and characters. most people don’t like the trope where the two main characters in a relationship are apart, but I can’t lie, I love it. Especially when they have a way to communicate and give in to being a little filthy via written words? Oh yeah, I eat it up like my life depends on it.

I immediately want to move on to book 3, but I have some responsibilities before diving in. But when I do, I will be sat and hope to read it in one sitting. I need for them to be safe and with each other.

[Carmen]

This is a great sequel! While the characters are long distance, the romance was still intriguing. I liked getting to see each MC in their strengths. With the cliffhanger, I hope I don’t have to wait too long for the next book!

[Tuliriemu]

4,75 ⭐

I absolutely adore this series. Can't wait for book 3!

[Britni MacDonald]

4.25/5

[Cordyn]

Good second

There’s nothing like spending a Saturday immersed in a good book. I am incredibly glad I got to these after the trilogy was finished. That ending.

[Niki Davidis]

too much yearning bro

[K]

Dnf at 58%
WOW way to ruin a potentially good book/series. NOPE, gross.

[Tori V]

Just like the first book, I found myself identifying so much with Rylla, and that feels really nice. Her confrontation anxiety is so real, but she has a dragon-related medical mystery to solve, and she puts her patient first. Meanwhile, Tarinne is on the other side of the Rend trying her damndest to break free from her oppressor so she can settle down with Rylla, but he has no intention of letting her go.

Even long distance, Tarinne and Rylla are perfect for each other. Relationship goals, honestly. It’s tragic that they don’t get to meet at all in this book. At least they have their magic bracelets to communicate! Their awkward flirting is so cute, and the way they talk about each other is really sweet.

Avery has such a way with words, able to convey so much emotion through the page. Even just rereading the quotes I highlighted had me tearing up. I had originally rated this 4.75 but writing this review made me bump it up to a full 5.

Many thanks to Avery for choosing me again! 💚 I’m very much looking forward to book 3!

[Helianthus]

🐲 My goodness I loved this follow-up to This Delicate Flame! It was so good to be reading about Tarinne & Rylla again, I love them so much!
🐲 I loved seeing the story from two points of view and following both MCs on their travels. This is cleverly done too - with most having a clever little cliff hanger to keep me wanting more, and wanting to find out what’s next for each character.
🐲 The relationship between Tarinne and Rylla is gorgeous! I loved seeing how they see each other in the little things when they are apart. The magic communication bracelets are so clever too! Love the idea!

🐲 This is my second read in the last few months to emotionally ruin me with its ending. All I can say is that I am so glad this is a cosy romantasy with a guaranteed happy ending. I am still not okay though 😭🥰
🐲 Started book three the day after finishing it! That is how good it was!