What do you think?
Rate this book
Cadence of the Fallen #1
A Requiem for Fallen Stars
Lyra Izacalli does not clutch onto the jagged remnants of her past—she buries them deep beneath her skin.
To feel is to give power to the past—to let grief and memory carve through her like a blade. But Lyra refuses to let them win. She will not let the sharpened words of men who call themselves nobles and kings cut deeper than they deserve. If they cannot wound her, they cannot control her. And if they cannot control her, then freedom is hers to claim—despite her feeling anything but free. But when an unexpected opportunity arises, Lyra is thrust into the deadly entrance exams of an elite academy, where only nobility thrive. But first, she must strike a blood wager with a capricious king—one that could win Lyra her freedom or cost her life… if the exams don’t kill her first.
A world that rejects her. A forgotten journal that will redefine her. A band of dangerous wielders that hunt her. And then there is him—the one who found her, who should have been nothing more than a mentor—the person to unravel her.
But Lyra is not here for love. She is here to win. And as the walls she has spent years fortifying begin to fracture as truth after daunting truth break free—
The world will come to understand…
A girl who refuses to lose does not break.
She erupts.
A Requiem for Fallen Stars is a fast-paced, emotionally charged fantasy romance where power is a game, freedom comes at a price, and love is the most dangerous risk of all. With unique trials, forgotten knowledge, and a heroine who refuses to break, this novel is perfect for fans of high-stakes political intrigue, slow-burning tension, found family, and the kind of sharp-edged romance that lingers long after the final page.
To feel is to give power to the past—to let grief and memory carve through her like a blade. But Lyra refuses to let them win. She will not let the sharpened words of men who call themselves nobles and kings cut deeper than they deserve. If they cannot wound her, they cannot control her. And if they cannot control her, then freedom is hers to claim—despite her feeling anything but free. But when an unexpected opportunity arises, Lyra is thrust into the deadly entrance exams of an elite academy, where only nobility thrive. But first, she must strike a blood wager with a capricious king—one that could win Lyra her freedom or cost her life… if the exams don’t kill her first.
A world that rejects her. A forgotten journal that will redefine her. A band of dangerous wielders that hunt her. And then there is him—the one who found her, who should have been nothing more than a mentor—the person to unravel her.
But Lyra is not here for love. She is here to win. And as the walls she has spent years fortifying begin to fracture as truth after daunting truth break free—
The world will come to understand…
A girl who refuses to lose does not break.
She erupts.
A Requiem for Fallen Stars is a fast-paced, emotionally charged fantasy romance where power is a game, freedom comes at a price, and love is the most dangerous risk of all. With unique trials, forgotten knowledge, and a heroine who refuses to break, this novel is perfect for fans of high-stakes political intrigue, slow-burning tension, found family, and the kind of sharp-edged romance that lingers long after the final page.
540 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 3, 2025
1178 people are currently reading
16079 people want to read
About the author
Hazel S. Wilkes
4 books157 followersHazel is simply a lover of words and stories, overflowing with made-up worlds, scenarios, and characters. Ever since she was just a small girl, climbing out of her bedroom window to read on the roof under the stars with her trusted book light in hand (sorry, Mom), she has been enchanted by stories and the art of storytelling.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 494 reviews
June 3, 2025
a straight up MASTERPIECE HOLY SHIT
this author needs to kiss her brain. i loved the academy setting, the fmc, the mmc (hot damn???) and the found family way too much. i am genuinely obsessed, couldn’t keep my nose out of this book.
our fmc lyra is bad ass without being hardheaded, she was hardened by life, but she didn’t let it take over her whole personality.
and the BANTER the mmc gave was another level and I LOVE HIM.
the ending was criminal and i book 2 rn, bro. i am begging, please.
5 ⭐️ AMAZING
this author needs to kiss her brain. i loved the academy setting, the fmc, the mmc (hot damn???) and the found family way too much. i am genuinely obsessed, couldn’t keep my nose out of this book.
our fmc lyra is bad ass without being hardheaded, she was hardened by life, but she didn’t let it take over her whole personality.
and the BANTER the mmc gave was another level and I LOVE HIM.
the ending was criminal and i book 2 rn, bro. i am begging, please.
5 ⭐️ AMAZING
April 20, 2025
Haven’t read this yet- but I think it’s absurd someone is allowed to leave a 3 star review on a book that 1. Hasn’t been released 2. They haven’t read
Read
June 10, 2025I think this will be a soft DNF for me. 125 pages or 25% in and I still don’t feel connected to the characters or the world. We still haven’t meet the MMC yet but so far the characters are not giving me a connection depth that I need to keep me interested. The writing is beautiful and well done but there just isn’t anything hooking me. Most of the reviews are 4-5 stars so maybe it’s just me. 🤷♀️
May 25, 2025
This book had me within the first few chapters! I didn’t want to put it down every time I picked it up (I’m a slow reader… ignore how long it took me to finish it).
This book only got better as we were introduced to more characters and witnessed the world unfold. I haven’t been this excited for a fantasy world and its sequel in a while! I loved the friendships as much as the romance, and the found family in here is top notch. More than anything though? I can’t get over the PLOT!!! MY JAW WAS ON THE FLOOR. I will be thinking about this book for the foreseeable future.
This book only got better as we were introduced to more characters and witnessed the world unfold. I haven’t been this excited for a fantasy world and its sequel in a while! I loved the friendships as much as the romance, and the found family in here is top notch. More than anything though? I can’t get over the PLOT!!! MY JAW WAS ON THE FLOOR. I will be thinking about this book for the foreseeable future.
July 11, 2025
2.5~3 out of 5 stars. Another promising read that falls flat in the middle till the end. It starts with so much potential but it ends up being a letdown.
I enjoy certain parts of the writing - smooth, descriptive, and even poetic sometimes. The author boldly attempted to include some of the contrasting and controversial ideas to enrich the story and scene (like about the line between heroes and villains). Yet it's quite disappointing as most subjects are just touched upon, without any lingering impacts to the rest of the story.
Despite the fact that it takes quite long to really get anything in motion, I like the initial world building and development. Though I would say I had a very hard time in understanding the world fully, as there are many new glossaries made up by the author which are surprisingly similar in spelling. It's really confusing in some ways.
*SPOILERS ALERT*
The story falls flat as soon as the dark and broody, powerful MMC is introduced to the scene. Everything becomes annoyingly predictable and it gives me a strong 'Fourth Wing' vibe (not saying that FW is entirely original though). Lyra starts off to be nice character - traumatised, gritty, pessimistic yet smart and unyielding. In spite of her hard life as a night attendant, she dares to protect herself from further harm by preparing sleeping tonic for herself and her fellows, and she would help anyone who receives the unfair and cruel king's summons. Sadly, the potential gets wasted ever since Daren appears. Honestly the banters, retorts are cliche and boring, which strip Lyra off her initial charms. It's very difficult to really like, and to root for Lyra, as ever since she gets into the academy, she never once attempts to figure out things or deal with stuff on her own. All she does is to wait for people to come up to her and to offer help. Like she doesn't even care much about herself, in revealing her power, or in saving her own ass. Sterling gives her an ancient journal and literally tells her that she needs to scrutinise the whole thing to get answers, yet she seldom reads it until like 80% of the book. Her memories suck too, if we were to count how many times she finds something/ someone is oddly familiar but she cannot recall the details. She just waits for answer while she just forgets whatever and whoever she encounters moments earlier. It's something that triggers me a lot, especially when the book doesn't offer much background or any information, keeping us constantly in the dark of what the hell is going on (not to mention about the plot holes).
The romance is what I would describe as another fickle insta love -- honestly why is everyone in love of shadow daddy? It's a bit off as I don't really see the roots of their romance, like where does it start? I cannot see the depth and strength of their love but only some attractions between them.
Perhaps the biggest issue is with the plot... Things get messier and messier towards the end. It absolutely helps nothing when 99% of the book is written in Lyra's POV, someone who, again, rarely thinks on her own to unravel things, and who always goes lost in her traumatised mind. Some dialogues feels unnecessary long and redundant (like Draven chooses to bicker with the Master with Lyra almost dying in his arm, about whether or not he would let him take Lyra... damn just do something instead of arguing!!). I also don't see the points to kill Meiji and Griff so early in the plot as I don't see the purpose that their death serve apart from traumatising more female characters in the way. The ending is disappointing too, after so much death and sacrifice, people just hand Lyra off. It feels a bit stupid and not encouraging.
Some characters are interesting though, Gray, Marcella, Kiran... yet I guess they would barely suffice to motivate me to read the next one.
I enjoy certain parts of the writing - smooth, descriptive, and even poetic sometimes. The author boldly attempted to include some of the contrasting and controversial ideas to enrich the story and scene (like about the line between heroes and villains). Yet it's quite disappointing as most subjects are just touched upon, without any lingering impacts to the rest of the story.
Despite the fact that it takes quite long to really get anything in motion, I like the initial world building and development. Though I would say I had a very hard time in understanding the world fully, as there are many new glossaries made up by the author which are surprisingly similar in spelling. It's really confusing in some ways.
*SPOILERS ALERT*
The story falls flat as soon as the dark and broody, powerful MMC is introduced to the scene. Everything becomes annoyingly predictable and it gives me a strong 'Fourth Wing' vibe (not saying that FW is entirely original though). Lyra starts off to be nice character - traumatised, gritty, pessimistic yet smart and unyielding. In spite of her hard life as a night attendant, she dares to protect herself from further harm by preparing sleeping tonic for herself and her fellows, and she would help anyone who receives the unfair and cruel king's summons. Sadly, the potential gets wasted ever since Daren appears. Honestly the banters, retorts are cliche and boring, which strip Lyra off her initial charms. It's very difficult to really like, and to root for Lyra, as ever since she gets into the academy, she never once attempts to figure out things or deal with stuff on her own. All she does is to wait for people to come up to her and to offer help. Like she doesn't even care much about herself, in revealing her power, or in saving her own ass. Sterling gives her an ancient journal and literally tells her that she needs to scrutinise the whole thing to get answers, yet she seldom reads it until like 80% of the book. Her memories suck too, if we were to count how many times she finds something/ someone is oddly familiar but she cannot recall the details. She just waits for answer while she just forgets whatever and whoever she encounters moments earlier. It's something that triggers me a lot, especially when the book doesn't offer much background or any information, keeping us constantly in the dark of what the hell is going on (not to mention about the plot holes).
The romance is what I would describe as another fickle insta love -- honestly why is everyone in love of shadow daddy? It's a bit off as I don't really see the roots of their romance, like where does it start? I cannot see the depth and strength of their love but only some attractions between them.
Perhaps the biggest issue is with the plot... Things get messier and messier towards the end. It absolutely helps nothing when 99% of the book is written in Lyra's POV, someone who, again, rarely thinks on her own to unravel things, and who always goes lost in her traumatised mind. Some dialogues feels unnecessary long and redundant (like Draven chooses to bicker with the Master with Lyra almost dying in his arm, about whether or not he would let him take Lyra... damn just do something instead of arguing!!). I also don't see the points to kill Meiji and Griff so early in the plot as I don't see the purpose that their death serve apart from traumatising more female characters in the way. The ending is disappointing too, after so much death and sacrifice, people just hand Lyra off. It feels a bit stupid and not encouraging.
Some characters are interesting though, Gray, Marcella, Kiran... yet I guess they would barely suffice to motivate me to read the next one.
June 2, 2025
“And you, Lyra, have obliterated all my defenses. You are my undoing. My beginning and my end.”
This was such a great romantasy read. I always get worried that I won't be able to follow a new world or magic system. But Hazel did such a great job of pulling the reader in and explaining the world. The magic system was fun to learn and seeing the different power possibilities.
Lyra is such a badass. She's been through so much in her life, and she hasn't given up despite all of it. But when she has the chance to leave the King and all that comes with living there behind, she takes it. And she meets a dark and broody man named Draven, her world starts to shift. Monsters start to attack, and magic is awakened.
Draven is so hot, I love a morally grey man. A shadow daddy if you will. He's a man I will absolutely always love for many reasons that I cannot spoil. Just know that he can do no wrong in my eyes and I can't wait to see what happens in book 2.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam & Hazel Wilkes for the gifted eARC.
This was such a great romantasy read. I always get worried that I won't be able to follow a new world or magic system. But Hazel did such a great job of pulling the reader in and explaining the world. The magic system was fun to learn and seeing the different power possibilities.
Lyra is such a badass. She's been through so much in her life, and she hasn't given up despite all of it. But when she has the chance to leave the King and all that comes with living there behind, she takes it. And she meets a dark and broody man named Draven, her world starts to shift. Monsters start to attack, and magic is awakened.
Draven is so hot, I love a morally grey man. A shadow daddy if you will. He's a man I will absolutely always love for many reasons that I cannot spoil. Just know that he can do no wrong in my eyes and I can't wait to see what happens in book 2.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam & Hazel Wilkes for the gifted eARC.
July 12, 2025
Oh my gosh what a fun ride this book was! The world building and the magic system that Hazel created really set up to your imagination!
The twist and turns this book put me through had me on the edge of my seat! Like I was sat! lol
I really enjoyed the trials and when you finally meet Draven!? Dear god this man was everything! He is literally going on my next book BF list!
I am very much looking forward to book 2!
The twist and turns this book put me through had me on the edge of my seat! Like I was sat! lol
I really enjoyed the trials and when you finally meet Draven!? Dear god this man was everything! He is literally going on my next book BF list!
I am very much looking forward to book 2!
October 9, 2025
4 Stars
Lyra lost her mother at a young age, by order of her king, and is adopted by the king's advisor and his wife. She grows to be best friends with their son, Grey. She is a night attendant (basically a prostitute at parties) for the king when she's old enough, and since she's blood bound to him she has a bleak future ahead of her. Until things change, her magic finally comes in, and she makes a deal to leave her kingdom. She heads to the elite magic school that services the three kingdoms in her world. She must gain entrance to the school, passing a series of tests, to win the deal she made.
I thought this was going to be a 5 star - the writing is fun and very well paced. I enjoy the side characters, and think the world is well built and unique. I like how Lyra is very realistic - her trauma has hardened and shaped her but she's also intelligent and determined. I like Draven too, but I wish we got to know him a bit more. Something about his character felt a bit shallow.
So the reasons I can't rate this higher, even though I did really enjoy it, is because of the romance and how the plot kind of lost it's way. I liked Lyra and Draven together at first, it felt like there was a good amount of yearning, but then things sped up way too fast and they were basically admitting they are in love. It felt so unexpected and misplaced. They are both jaded people who have gone through a lot - so it didn't make sense to me. Also, I just didn't like it. They needed a lot more development and tension to convince me, this was basically insta-love for no reason. Draven had all these long ramblings about doing anything for Lyra and I truly did not understand why. She's not a bad character, but there's nothing to make me believe Draven is realistically in love with her.
The plot towards the end was another miss - or maybe it's just the writing? Things got a bit muddy with the lore and whole "history has been rewritten thing". Maybe I wasn't paying enough attention, but the bad guys motivations and how he's using his minions were very unclear. He thinks humanity should suffer... just because?
I still recommend this book to fantasy lovers, and I will read the next book in the series, but I'm a little disappointed by the turn this took towards the end.
Lyra lost her mother at a young age, by order of her king, and is adopted by the king's advisor and his wife. She grows to be best friends with their son, Grey. She is a night attendant (basically a prostitute at parties) for the king when she's old enough, and since she's blood bound to him she has a bleak future ahead of her. Until things change, her magic finally comes in, and she makes a deal to leave her kingdom. She heads to the elite magic school that services the three kingdoms in her world. She must gain entrance to the school, passing a series of tests, to win the deal she made.
I thought this was going to be a 5 star - the writing is fun and very well paced. I enjoy the side characters, and think the world is well built and unique. I like how Lyra is very realistic - her trauma has hardened and shaped her but she's also intelligent and determined. I like Draven too, but I wish we got to know him a bit more. Something about his character felt a bit shallow.
So the reasons I can't rate this higher, even though I did really enjoy it, is because of the romance and how the plot kind of lost it's way. I liked Lyra and Draven together at first, it felt like there was a good amount of yearning, but then things sped up way too fast and they were basically admitting they are in love. It felt so unexpected and misplaced. They are both jaded people who have gone through a lot - so it didn't make sense to me. Also, I just didn't like it. They needed a lot more development and tension to convince me, this was basically insta-love for no reason. Draven had all these long ramblings about doing anything for Lyra and I truly did not understand why. She's not a bad character, but there's nothing to make me believe Draven is realistically in love with her.
The plot towards the end was another miss - or maybe it's just the writing? Things got a bit muddy with the lore and whole "history has been rewritten thing". Maybe I wasn't paying enough attention, but the bad guys motivations and how he's using his minions were very unclear. He thinks humanity should suffer... just because?
I still recommend this book to fantasy lovers, and I will read the next book in the series, but I'm a little disappointed by the turn this took towards the end.
October 8, 2025
DNF at 14%
Charcters are so poorly written I am in awe this book was published. Two major plot holes have ruined the believability of both the main character and the king. I'm utterly disappointed.
Spoilers below:
Plot holes:
1. MC says, "and though my tongue may not be coated in fine silver like Gray and Sterling, it certainly has a silver edge." (What are these names btw? Sterling named his son Gray and they both have silver tongues? Sterling as in sterling silver? Gray which is like diminished silver???)
MC then proceeds to prove she does not have a silver tongue AT ALL and basically commands the king to send her to magic school, forgoing all social etiquette which the cruel king has proved five seconds ago he doesn't tolerate when he whipped her in the throne room and told her to always call him "my king".
2. MC tells the king she she has a recipe for an elixir that will fix his infertility and help him make an heir. She wagers that if she fails the entrance exam to the magic school she will come back and share it with him. If she makes it in the school, she won't be his blood sworn servant anymore. The king asks how she has the info, MC says, "I only recently discovered the journal in a pile of her [MC's dead mother's] old work aprons." TELL ME WHY THE KING AGREES??? We've established he's cruel and selfish and takes what he wants, but he agrees to this wager instead of just sending guards to find the book and bring it to him?? He doesn't even threaten her he'll whip her or her friend again, or ask for proof the book is real (which it isn't, she made it up) He just agrees and even has it magically sealed???
Poor phrasing:
3. "Gossiping girls" used by the main character in a derogatory way to describe awful men is putting down women at the same time too. The mc seems like she thinks women should be treated equally so why is her internal monologue mysoginistic?
4. I saw another comment on a review saying they think this book is AI generated, and based on what I've read so far, yk I wouldn't be surprised.
Charcters are so poorly written I am in awe this book was published. Two major plot holes have ruined the believability of both the main character and the king. I'm utterly disappointed.
Spoilers below:
Plot holes:
1. MC says, "and though my tongue may not be coated in fine silver like Gray and Sterling, it certainly has a silver edge." (What are these names btw? Sterling named his son Gray and they both have silver tongues? Sterling as in sterling silver? Gray which is like diminished silver???)
MC then proceeds to prove she does not have a silver tongue AT ALL and basically commands the king to send her to magic school, forgoing all social etiquette which the cruel king has proved five seconds ago he doesn't tolerate when he whipped her in the throne room and told her to always call him "my king".
2. MC tells the king she she has a recipe for an elixir that will fix his infertility and help him make an heir. She wagers that if she fails the entrance exam to the magic school she will come back and share it with him. If she makes it in the school, she won't be his blood sworn servant anymore. The king asks how she has the info, MC says, "I only recently discovered the journal in a pile of her [MC's dead mother's] old work aprons." TELL ME WHY THE KING AGREES??? We've established he's cruel and selfish and takes what he wants, but he agrees to this wager instead of just sending guards to find the book and bring it to him?? He doesn't even threaten her he'll whip her or her friend again, or ask for proof the book is real (which it isn't, she made it up) He just agrees and even has it magically sealed???
Poor phrasing:
3. "Gossiping girls" used by the main character in a derogatory way to describe awful men is putting down women at the same time too. The mc seems like she thinks women should be treated equally so why is her internal monologue mysoginistic?
4. I saw another comment on a review saying they think this book is AI generated, and based on what I've read so far, yk I wouldn't be surprised.
June 30, 2025
omg it’s 2 am and i just finished this book. go read this book. please please please. i feel like i just got played, completing outsmarted. what just HAPPENED!!!?!
November 6, 2025
Finished this a while ago and still think about it daily PHENOMENAL!
June 29, 2025
This book had a lot going on and sometimes the information was told more than shown. The FMC is likeable and strong. She's good hearted despite the treatment she's endured. I liked Draven and the side characters. I would be interested in continuing when the second book comes out.
July 22, 2025
I AM OBSESSED OKAY!!
Did it take me a few months to read this? Yes. Was it because of a massive slump/hangover & not because of this book? Also YES.
When I picked this up originally (intended to be done before she released…) I was in arguably the worst slump/hangover I’ve been in for quite some time. Nothing was hitting even when it had everything I love.
When I finally felt like my slump era was thawing I jumped back into this baby instead of giving up on it and I am SO INCREDIBLY PLEASED I DID. Easiest 5 stars to give.
✨ Lyra is a low-born citizen forced to be a night attendant to the King after a childhood tragedy & is willing to do anything to get herself separated from that life. Gray is her high-born life long best friend and companion that is off to Bathara to train to become a Jurafen. Draven, well he’s a grumpy, very powerful (& handsome) man that saves them on the known treacherous journey to Bathara.
✨ We have a unique magic system, elite academy with trials, horrendous court politics, layered and intricate histories you eat up, motivated FMC, MMC willing to do anything for her, reluctant allies to lovers, will literally burn the world for her, insane antagonist, incredible side characters, witty banter. I mean I truly could go on and ON. Though these are tropes I love, this story is strongly about survival and healing.
I haven’t read a totally consuming romantasy in a minute & LOVE this one much. The way it ended… I will be miserable waiting for the second to come out 😮💨
I appreciate the opportunity to read this through the nerdfam & the author!
Did it take me a few months to read this? Yes. Was it because of a massive slump/hangover & not because of this book? Also YES.
When I picked this up originally (intended to be done before she released…) I was in arguably the worst slump/hangover I’ve been in for quite some time. Nothing was hitting even when it had everything I love.
When I finally felt like my slump era was thawing I jumped back into this baby instead of giving up on it and I am SO INCREDIBLY PLEASED I DID. Easiest 5 stars to give.
✨ Lyra is a low-born citizen forced to be a night attendant to the King after a childhood tragedy & is willing to do anything to get herself separated from that life. Gray is her high-born life long best friend and companion that is off to Bathara to train to become a Jurafen. Draven, well he’s a grumpy, very powerful (& handsome) man that saves them on the known treacherous journey to Bathara.
✨ We have a unique magic system, elite academy with trials, horrendous court politics, layered and intricate histories you eat up, motivated FMC, MMC willing to do anything for her, reluctant allies to lovers, will literally burn the world for her, insane antagonist, incredible side characters, witty banter. I mean I truly could go on and ON. Though these are tropes I love, this story is strongly about survival and healing.
I haven’t read a totally consuming romantasy in a minute & LOVE this one much. The way it ended… I will be miserable waiting for the second to come out 😮💨
I appreciate the opportunity to read this through the nerdfam & the author!
June 8, 2025
Just effing WOW!
this book has all the things to fill your fantasy soul
Found family, found magic, magical academy, trials and a hot Mmc … if this book doesn’t go viral I will be shocked!
Thank you The Nerd Fam for gifting me this eARC
this book has all the things to fill your fantasy soul
Found family, found magic, magical academy, trials and a hot Mmc … if this book doesn’t go viral I will be shocked!
Thank you The Nerd Fam for gifting me this eARC
maybe
December 11, 2025Getting an audio on January 13th, 2026
July 8, 2025
I had high hopes for this book, but I think it ultimately fails from a lack of refinement, lack of clarity, and a few unoriginal plot points. I technically DNF'd this book at the 97% point because Lyra was just so completely frustrating as am MFC that I didn't care to fully read the last 2 chapters. She's supposed to be so strong and resilient, and she has the same education as Gray does (and he seems to know a ton), but then the number of times where she recognizes something vaguely but just can't place it, or thinks she knows the info but can't remember it, or even worse, when she flat out says she didn't pay attention in her education basically at all aside from Gardning. How am I supposed to cheer for an MFC who couldn't be bothered to wield herself with one of the few weapons offered to her: knowledge?
At first the plot of this story was really interesting, though it lacked in clarification to the point where I was confused as to what was going on - and this never actually improved over the course of this book - and I never really got pulled into the story. The characters are likable for the most part, and I like the initial world-building that is done.
But as you dive deeper into the story, you start to hit obstacles preventing enjoyment: Some of the descriptions are difficult to grasp, like the crests of the aggregates, and some descriptions are just flat out confusing, like how the different kingdoms have different stars somehow? And then you start to reach plot points that are too familiar and similar to major plot points in other books such as Fourth Wing and Throne of Glass, especially parts that are repeated quite often during the course of the book, constantly reminding you that it's unoriginal. Add in some of the lack of common sense (why do we never keep guard at night when journeying through dangerous lands?), and the story really started to annoy me. Add in all the things about Lyra that I noted before being more and more frequent, and I just found I no longer cared enough to even finish the book, despite being at the very end.
Also, this story desperately needs trigger warnings for assault, SA, enslavement, trauma, grief, attempted SA, etc etc etc. at the very beginning, because hot damn those early chapters are ROUGH to read if you aren't aware of what you are getting yourself into.
At first the plot of this story was really interesting, though it lacked in clarification to the point where I was confused as to what was going on - and this never actually improved over the course of this book - and I never really got pulled into the story. The characters are likable for the most part, and I like the initial world-building that is done.
But as you dive deeper into the story, you start to hit obstacles preventing enjoyment: Some of the descriptions are difficult to grasp, like the crests of the aggregates, and some descriptions are just flat out confusing, like how the different kingdoms have different stars somehow? And then you start to reach plot points that are too familiar and similar to major plot points in other books such as Fourth Wing and Throne of Glass, especially parts that are repeated quite often during the course of the book, constantly reminding you that it's unoriginal. Add in some of the lack of common sense (why do we never keep guard at night when journeying through dangerous lands?), and the story really started to annoy me. Add in all the things about Lyra that I noted before being more and more frequent, and I just found I no longer cared enough to even finish the book, despite being at the very end.
Also, this story desperately needs trigger warnings for assault, SA, enslavement, trauma, grief, attempted SA, etc etc etc. at the very beginning, because hot damn those early chapters are ROUGH to read if you aren't aware of what you are getting yourself into.
June 7, 2025
“ I will bring down the stars and string them into jewelry if you wish me to. All you have to do is ask. ”
Debut who? This book grabbed me by the throat, ( lovingly of course ) and didn’t let go. My next obsession & whole personality lol. I truly don’t have the words to express how deeply captivated I was, hooked on every single line, every chapter. The tension and yearning practically leapt off the page. The way trauma, grief, pain, and internal conflict were handled? TOP TIER. All I wanted to do was cry. 😫
The scenes were gripping, and I adored the found family and new friendships Lyra formed after arriving in Bathara. And Draven? Pleaseeee. This man is officially my new book boyfriend. Broody, stoic, emotionally closed off but with the softest, most loyal heart. The things he would do for the woman he loves!? He’s the embodiment of “he’d burn the world for her.”
The twists and revelations had me reeling. I can’t stop thinking about this story, it’s already living rent-free in my head. And that ending?! PLEASEEEE 😫
Hazel has crafted such a breathtaking, emotional, and magical world. The magic system is unique, the prose is enchanting, and the storytelling is next-level. I absolutely can’t wait to get my hands on book two, it can’t come fast enough!
Debut who? This book grabbed me by the throat, ( lovingly of course ) and didn’t let go. My next obsession & whole personality lol. I truly don’t have the words to express how deeply captivated I was, hooked on every single line, every chapter. The tension and yearning practically leapt off the page. The way trauma, grief, pain, and internal conflict were handled? TOP TIER. All I wanted to do was cry. 😫
The scenes were gripping, and I adored the found family and new friendships Lyra formed after arriving in Bathara. And Draven? Pleaseeee. This man is officially my new book boyfriend. Broody, stoic, emotionally closed off but with the softest, most loyal heart. The things he would do for the woman he loves!? He’s the embodiment of “he’d burn the world for her.”
The twists and revelations had me reeling. I can’t stop thinking about this story, it’s already living rent-free in my head. And that ending?! PLEASEEEE 😫
Hazel has crafted such a breathtaking, emotional, and magical world. The magic system is unique, the prose is enchanting, and the storytelling is next-level. I absolutely can’t wait to get my hands on book two, it can’t come fast enough!
June 11, 2025
First off, this book is amazing and it didn’t take me a week to read it, I had to read it twice. This is a great 4.5 ⭐️ fantasy that has such immersive world building, an interesting magic system, beautiful lore, and a cast of characters that you will love to love, love to hate, and learn to love.
A Requiem For Fallen Stars is a story the follows Lyra, our FMC who serves as a night-attendant (fancy word for courtesan) in a world of magic and not having any for herself. She is orphaned and bound by blood to serve a tyrannical king when fate intervenes to allow her an opportunity to be free of him and learn about the new magic she recently discovers she has. On the way, you have her best friend Gray accompanying her on this journey/test, who is one of the best friends a girl could have, where she meets mysterious Draven and crew to go to the place where she may win her freedom. There’s found family, slow burn love, spicy 🌶️ scenes, action, trials, and destiny revealed. You are hooked from the beginning. And then after you finish, and pick up your jaw from the floor, you’re gonna wanna reread and pick up the gems that were dropped that you missed the first time through.
I will say there are several moments where you feel like you’re reading a few of the popular romantasies because of the quotes (Do Not Yield, Do Not Falter) but it’s a cute throwback that keeps you engaged.
Thank you to the NerdFam for allowing me access to the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NerdFam #ARequiemForFallenStars
A Requiem For Fallen Stars is a story the follows Lyra, our FMC who serves as a night-attendant (fancy word for courtesan) in a world of magic and not having any for herself. She is orphaned and bound by blood to serve a tyrannical king when fate intervenes to allow her an opportunity to be free of him and learn about the new magic she recently discovers she has. On the way, you have her best friend Gray accompanying her on this journey/test, who is one of the best friends a girl could have, where she meets mysterious Draven and crew to go to the place where she may win her freedom. There’s found family, slow burn love, spicy 🌶️ scenes, action, trials, and destiny revealed. You are hooked from the beginning. And then after you finish, and pick up your jaw from the floor, you’re gonna wanna reread and pick up the gems that were dropped that you missed the first time through.
I will say there are several moments where you feel like you’re reading a few of the popular romantasies because of the quotes (Do Not Yield, Do Not Falter) but it’s a cute throwback that keeps you engaged.
Thank you to the NerdFam for allowing me access to the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NerdFam #ARequiemForFallenStars
June 13, 2025
5 ⭐️ AND MORE
I freaking devoured this book.
From page one Hazel pulls you into a richly crafted world that’s easy to follow but full of depth … with a magic system that makes sense, actual stakes and characters you can’t help but root for. Lyra is one of those strong, emotionally complex heroines who’s been through hell but still somehow keeps looking out for others. I loved her immediately.
There’s found family, political tension, slow-burn romance (hellooo Draven 👀) and a cast of side characters who actually matter. Gray was a standout for me … a true friend, not just a prop. And the dynamic between the group kept me smiling, wincing and laughing out loud more than once.
Also: that ending? UGH so epic. The final chapters had me gasping and gripping my Kindle like it owed me money. The cliffhanger was just enough to leave me desperate for book two but not in a way that felt cruel.
My only gripe? Some of the villains (cough the King cough) were so deeply awful I wanted to reach into the book and throw hands. But honestly that just means they were written well.
Can’t wait for the next one.
I freaking devoured this book.
From page one Hazel pulls you into a richly crafted world that’s easy to follow but full of depth … with a magic system that makes sense, actual stakes and characters you can’t help but root for. Lyra is one of those strong, emotionally complex heroines who’s been through hell but still somehow keeps looking out for others. I loved her immediately.
There’s found family, political tension, slow-burn romance (hellooo Draven 👀) and a cast of side characters who actually matter. Gray was a standout for me … a true friend, not just a prop. And the dynamic between the group kept me smiling, wincing and laughing out loud more than once.
Also: that ending? UGH so epic. The final chapters had me gasping and gripping my Kindle like it owed me money. The cliffhanger was just enough to leave me desperate for book two but not in a way that felt cruel.
My only gripe? Some of the villains (cough the King cough) were so deeply awful I wanted to reach into the book and throw hands. But honestly that just means they were written well.
Can’t wait for the next one.
June 28, 2025
4.5🌟 It's amazing that this is the authors debut novel, how iconic. Really enjoyed this one, and I can't wait to hear more news on book 2 and dive deeper into this story
June 2, 2025
This was such a good fantasy! I loved the world the author created and I was completely immersed from the very first chapter. The magic was fascinating, the characters were captivating, and everything was so beautifully written.
I loved following Lyra on her adventure to finish the quests in order to gain acceptance to the magical school and escape her past. Her character was so strong and I really liked her connection to Gray. The found family aspect was my favorite in this story as it was done so well.
I’m excited to see where the story goes from here.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted copy of the book.
I loved following Lyra on her adventure to finish the quests in order to gain acceptance to the magical school and escape her past. Her character was so strong and I really liked her connection to Gray. The found family aspect was my favorite in this story as it was done so well.
I’m excited to see where the story goes from here.
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted copy of the book.
August 25, 2025
From the very first chapter, I was hooked. The world building was so beautifully done. It created such an immersive reading experience that you can’t help but get pulled right in. I absolutely loved the academy setting, with all the dangerous trials woven throughout, the found family dynamic, & the healing journey of our FMC, Lyra.
Lyra herself is such a soft yet strong FMC. Watching her grow while navigating this exciting, & sometimes scary, new path was incredible. Her journey of self discovery, along with the secrets she uncovers about both herself & the world she’s been thrust into, kept me turning the pages long after I should’ve been asleep.
& then there’s our MMC, Draven. I mean, I love a man with a tortured past, who knows how to yearns, & he just so happens to be a shadow wielding badass on top of it. He might come across as grumpy & brooding, but the way he has a soft spot for our girl Lyra absolutely had me swooning. But he isn’t just there for the romance tho, he plays such an important role in her growth, both personally & with her abilities.
This book truly gave me everything! It had me giggling, stressed, crying, & absolutely swooning. I highly recommend this book to any lovers of Romantasy! I can’t wait to get my hands on book two!
Lyra herself is such a soft yet strong FMC. Watching her grow while navigating this exciting, & sometimes scary, new path was incredible. Her journey of self discovery, along with the secrets she uncovers about both herself & the world she’s been thrust into, kept me turning the pages long after I should’ve been asleep.
& then there’s our MMC, Draven. I mean, I love a man with a tortured past, who knows how to yearns, & he just so happens to be a shadow wielding badass on top of it. He might come across as grumpy & brooding, but the way he has a soft spot for our girl Lyra absolutely had me swooning. But he isn’t just there for the romance tho, he plays such an important role in her growth, both personally & with her abilities.
This book truly gave me everything! It had me giggling, stressed, crying, & absolutely swooning. I highly recommend this book to any lovers of Romantasy! I can’t wait to get my hands on book two!
June 4, 2025
Hey Siri, play Scylla by Jorge Rivera-Herrans in Spotify 💔
___
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Este libro es como cuando descubres una canción nueva que te obsesiona desde la primera nota:no sabes porqué te gusta desde el incio, pero sucede, asi que te pasas tres semanas enteras pensando y solo escuchando esa canción en concreto.
Desde el primer capítulo, Hazel S. Wilkes me tuvo enganchada. Su estilo es directo, muy ameno, lleno de emoción y con pinceladas de humor que me hicieron reír más de una vez. No es el estilo más poético del mundo, pero tiene lo más importante: sentimientooossss. Y eso, junto con personajes increíbles y una construcción de relaciones bien lograda (Hazel, te adoro por hacer personajes que construyen relaciones sentimentales paso a paso), es lo que más me enamoró del libro.
Lo que te puedes encontrar en ARFFS:
Un enemies to lovers¿? o haters to lovers más bien…
Romantasy fácil de leer, adictivo y perfecto para salir de un reading slump. (me lo comí con patatas en menos de dos días)
Relación sana, real y preciosa entre Lyra y su mejor amigo Gray. Sin tensión amorosa, sin drama innecesario. Solo amor incondicional de amistad del bueno. (Creo que es una de las cosas que mas me ha gustado del libro- se apoyan como si fueran hermanos sin esperar una relacion amorosa a parte - algo que ya no se ve CASI NADA en libros en general.)
Una nueva amistad femenina que se siente natural. La relación entre Lyra y otra chica (cuyo nombre no revelaré para evitar spoilers) no es forzada ni cliché . Simplemente hacen “click” como en la vida real, y se apoyan sin tener que pasar por traumas compartidos ni justificaciones exageradas. (Babes, por mucho con dos personajes femeninos tengan el mismo trauma no significa que vayan a amarse al instante, apunten apunten)
Desarrollo de personaje excelente. Antes del 30% ya conoces a Lyra de forma íntima, con sus facetas, sus miedos y su fuerza. Y cómo evoluciona... uf. Me sentí muy conectada con ella. Iconic y badass, pero con sentimientos <3
Lyra me marcó mucho como protagonista. No solo por su resiliencia, sino porque me recordó que a veces hay que mirar atrás, reconocer todo lo que has pasado, para poder seguir adelante con más fuerza. Su evolución es una joya y creo que es una de las mejores que he leído ultimamente. Los autores y autoras muchas veces se olvidan que hay un desarrollo con los traumas, no es posible pasarlos por alto, existen y hay que tratarlos (y eso se marca en los personajes- necesita verse esa evolución!!!! es IMPORTANTE)
Y claro, no puedo no hablar de Draven. La relación entre ellos no nace de un odio profundo, ni de una amistad de toda la vida. Es una intimidad construida, paso a paso, con secretos compartidos a escondidas, con momentos de vulnerabilidad. Surge de la confianza, de las conversaciones, del tiempo compartido. Y eso lo hace aún más bonito. Es que cómo no voy a quererlos???
Hay una escena en particular (que no voy a contar por spoilers 😏) que me rompió y me reconstruyó.
Y sí, este libro me tuvo al borde de las lágrimas. Al 20%. Gracias por tanto sufrimiento, un placer siempre leer cómo la peña se muere.
La muerte de ESE personaje me dejó KO. Cruda, inesperada, dolorosa. Ice, frio, hielo. Fue demasiado para mi corazoncito sensible. I'm just a girl, no hagan estooo:(((
Y bueno, sobre el final… tengo opiniones... varias.
No diré que me decepcionó, pero sí esperaba más. Tenemos narradores como Draven y Finlay (que por cierto, que hace ese cerdo marrano narrando no lo sé, pero que hago YO pensando que tiene un corazón bajo esa coraza de hielo, lo entiendo menos todavía). El caso, que me faltó chicha. Esa revelación épica que te deja con la mandíbula en el suelo… no llegó, o no como yo esperaba. Y yo tenía fe en que algo increíble pasaría. Aun así, sigue siendo un buen final. Solo que podía ser excelente.
Eso sí: escuché Scylla de Jorge Rivera-Herrans tras terminarlo y… PERFECCIÓN. Esa canción es el final. 100%. If you know, you know.
(cacho de la canción)
Lo que podría mejorar:
-Más plot twists. La historia tiene un buen ritmo, una base sólida… pero le faltó ese giro inesperado que te hace gritar en silencio mientras abrazas el ebook.
-Más de los “villanos”. Que, en mi humilde opinión, no son tan villanos como parecen. Pero ya veremos en el segundo libro… 😌
¿Lo recomiendo?
Claramente. Es un primer libro con una base increíble, personajes que brillan, relaciones bien cuidadas y un mundo que promete mucho. Solo necesita un pequeño empujón más en el próximo para alcanzar su máximo potencial.
✨ En fin, que lo devoré en día y medio y aún tengo resaca literaria.
Hazel, quiero respuestas. Y también quiero llorar otra vez, pero bien. Gracias
pdta: estoy escuchando Little Wolf mientras escribo la reseña y no puedo parar de pensar en Lyra. I CO NIC LA SEÑORA.
___
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
Este libro es como cuando descubres una canción nueva que te obsesiona desde la primera nota:no sabes porqué te gusta desde el incio, pero sucede, asi que te pasas tres semanas enteras pensando y solo escuchando esa canción en concreto.
Desde el primer capítulo, Hazel S. Wilkes me tuvo enganchada. Su estilo es directo, muy ameno, lleno de emoción y con pinceladas de humor que me hicieron reír más de una vez. No es el estilo más poético del mundo, pero tiene lo más importante: sentimientooossss. Y eso, junto con personajes increíbles y una construcción de relaciones bien lograda (Hazel, te adoro por hacer personajes que construyen relaciones sentimentales paso a paso), es lo que más me enamoró del libro.
Lo que te puedes encontrar en ARFFS:
Un enemies to lovers¿? o haters to lovers más bien…
Romantasy fácil de leer, adictivo y perfecto para salir de un reading slump. (me lo comí con patatas en menos de dos días)
Relación sana, real y preciosa entre Lyra y su mejor amigo Gray. Sin tensión amorosa, sin drama innecesario. Solo amor incondicional de amistad del bueno. (Creo que es una de las cosas que mas me ha gustado del libro- se apoyan como si fueran hermanos sin esperar una relacion amorosa a parte - algo que ya no se ve CASI NADA en libros en general.)
Una nueva amistad femenina que se siente natural. La relación entre Lyra y otra chica (cuyo nombre no revelaré para evitar spoilers) no es forzada ni cliché . Simplemente hacen “click” como en la vida real, y se apoyan sin tener que pasar por traumas compartidos ni justificaciones exageradas. (Babes, por mucho con dos personajes femeninos tengan el mismo trauma no significa que vayan a amarse al instante, apunten apunten)
Desarrollo de personaje excelente. Antes del 30% ya conoces a Lyra de forma íntima, con sus facetas, sus miedos y su fuerza. Y cómo evoluciona... uf. Me sentí muy conectada con ella. Iconic y badass, pero con sentimientos <3
Lyra me marcó mucho como protagonista. No solo por su resiliencia, sino porque me recordó que a veces hay que mirar atrás, reconocer todo lo que has pasado, para poder seguir adelante con más fuerza. Su evolución es una joya y creo que es una de las mejores que he leído ultimamente. Los autores y autoras muchas veces se olvidan que hay un desarrollo con los traumas, no es posible pasarlos por alto, existen y hay que tratarlos (y eso se marca en los personajes- necesita verse esa evolución!!!! es IMPORTANTE)
“I will not cower. I will not yield. I will not falter.”
Y claro, no puedo no hablar de Draven. La relación entre ellos no nace de un odio profundo, ni de una amistad de toda la vida. Es una intimidad construida, paso a paso, con secretos compartidos a escondidas, con momentos de vulnerabilidad. Surge de la confianza, de las conversaciones, del tiempo compartido. Y eso lo hace aún más bonito. Es que cómo no voy a quererlos???
Hay una escena en particular (que no voy a contar por spoilers 😏) que me rompió y me reconstruyó.
"Give me a list," he murmurs, "and I will make every single person whose harmed you pay with their life" I huff an empty laugh. "That'd be quite the long list." His hand remains on my cheek, cupping it with a tender touch. "I have plenty of time."
Y sí, este libro me tuvo al borde de las lágrimas. Al 20%. Gracias por tanto sufrimiento, un placer siempre leer cómo la peña se muere.
La muerte de ESE personaje me dejó KO. Cruda, inesperada, dolorosa. Ice, frio, hielo. Fue demasiado para mi corazoncito sensible. I'm just a girl, no hagan estooo:(((
Y bueno, sobre el final… tengo opiniones... varias.
No diré que me decepcionó, pero sí esperaba más. Tenemos narradores como Draven y Finlay (que por cierto, que hace ese cerdo marrano narrando no lo sé, pero que hago YO pensando que tiene un corazón bajo esa coraza de hielo, lo entiendo menos todavía). El caso, que me faltó chicha. Esa revelación épica que te deja con la mandíbula en el suelo… no llegó, o no como yo esperaba. Y yo tenía fe en que algo increíble pasaría. Aun así, sigue siendo un buen final. Solo que podía ser excelente.
Eso sí: escuché Scylla de Jorge Rivera-Herrans tras terminarlo y… PERFECCIÓN. Esa canción es el final. 100%. If you know, you know.
"Drown in your sorrow and fears
Choke on your blood and your tears
Bleed 'til you've run out of years
We must do what it takes to survive
Give up your honor and faith
Live up your life as a wraith
Die in the blood where you bathe
We must do what it takes to survive
We are the same, you and I, I"
(cacho de la canción)
Lo que podría mejorar:
-Más plot twists. La historia tiene un buen ritmo, una base sólida… pero le faltó ese giro inesperado que te hace gritar en silencio mientras abrazas el ebook.
-Más de los “villanos”. Que, en mi humilde opinión, no son tan villanos como parecen. Pero ya veremos en el segundo libro… 😌
¿Lo recomiendo?
Claramente. Es un primer libro con una base increíble, personajes que brillan, relaciones bien cuidadas y un mundo que promete mucho. Solo necesita un pequeño empujón más en el próximo para alcanzar su máximo potencial.
✨ En fin, que lo devoré en día y medio y aún tengo resaca literaria.
Hazel, quiero respuestas. Y también quiero llorar otra vez, pero bien. Gracias
pdta: estoy escuchando Little Wolf mientras escribo la reseña y no puedo parar de pensar en Lyra. I CO NIC LA SEÑORA.
Fight, little wolf, fight
Wanna entertain me?
Bite, little wolf, bite
Let's see how you take this
Strike, little wolf, strike
Wanna be a man? Then
Fight, little wolf, fight, little wolf, fight
October 14, 2025
Maybe I’ve just become jaded but I am done with the I’ll-kill-everyone-and-everything-I-stand-for-for-the-girl-I-met-three-weeks-ago spiel.
Throw some slow burn recs my way, please!
Throw some slow burn recs my way, please!
May 26, 2025
Everyone stop what you're doing, and read this book! 5 stars, hands down. I have a new obsession, and it is the world of Solaya, Bathara, and the MCs and story unfolding within.
Starting with the plot: there is so much going on from the beginning, with mysterious goings on and an FMC who comes from less-than-ideal circumstances (understatement) and goes to train to become a magic-wielding fighter. From there, everything continues to unfold. I never wanted to put this book down! It kept me guessing and on my toes the whole time.
This book took my heart, chewed it up, and spit it back out. I'm in utter awe of the way I grew to love all the different characters and their complex histories, some of which were so harrowing and heartbreaking I found my chest aching for them. That this is a debut novel is nothing short of shocking because of how well everything intertwines from characters, to plot and world building, to all the twists and turns.
The unique magic system is explained so thoroughly well. I felt like I could imagine exactly how it worked, and it truly is different from anything I've read before.
Without giving anything away, I LOVE the slow burn and tension between Lyra, the FMC, and the MMC. I was eating it up, it was so delicious!
The found family is amazing. I'm looking forward to more from all the side characters in the next book.
But most of all, that ending?! What happens next?! I can't WAIT for book 2! I think we're going to see these characters continue to grow and level up, and I'm literally shaking with anticipation!!!
Thank you to Hazel S. Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for this ARC.
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"I will not cower. I will not yield. I will not falter."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
“And you, Lyra, have obliterated all my defenses. You are my undoing. My beginning and my end.”
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"Because even though they have more impact on the world than arguably anything else, feelings don’t exist in any tangible sense. So I sit scratching at an invisible ache that throbs in my chest while hot tears pour down my cheeks."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"He is not he does not burn like flames; he is the steadiness and peace of flowing water. And this thing between us? It is like the tide—constant and inevitable."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"Feeling what’s hurt you is not letting them win, but refusing yourself the opportunity to heal because of them is."
Starting with the plot: there is so much going on from the beginning, with mysterious goings on and an FMC who comes from less-than-ideal circumstances (understatement) and goes to train to become a magic-wielding fighter. From there, everything continues to unfold. I never wanted to put this book down! It kept me guessing and on my toes the whole time.
This book took my heart, chewed it up, and spit it back out. I'm in utter awe of the way I grew to love all the different characters and their complex histories, some of which were so harrowing and heartbreaking I found my chest aching for them. That this is a debut novel is nothing short of shocking because of how well everything intertwines from characters, to plot and world building, to all the twists and turns.
The unique magic system is explained so thoroughly well. I felt like I could imagine exactly how it worked, and it truly is different from anything I've read before.
Without giving anything away, I LOVE the slow burn and tension between Lyra, the FMC, and the MMC. I was eating it up, it was so delicious!
The found family is amazing. I'm looking forward to more from all the side characters in the next book.
But most of all, that ending?! What happens next?! I can't WAIT for book 2! I think we're going to see these characters continue to grow and level up, and I'm literally shaking with anticipation!!!
Thank you to Hazel S. Wilkes and The Nerd Fam for this ARC.
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"I will not cower. I will not yield. I will not falter."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
“And you, Lyra, have obliterated all my defenses. You are my undoing. My beginning and my end.”
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"Because even though they have more impact on the world than arguably anything else, feelings don’t exist in any tangible sense. So I sit scratching at an invisible ache that throbs in my chest while hot tears pour down my cheeks."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"He is not he does not burn like flames; he is the steadiness and peace of flowing water. And this thing between us? It is like the tide—constant and inevitable."
°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°•○•°
"Feeling what’s hurt you is not letting them win, but refusing yourself the opportunity to heal because of them is."
November 2, 2025
Three stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was quite a good read, especially as this is the authors debut novel. I enjoyed a lot of aspects of this book (academic setting, overcoming grief, games/trials, unique world building, plot twists galore). However, I think there were a few elements that brought the book down for me:
• I felt like the pacing was a little bit off. The 20-50% mark of this book seemed unnecessarily long. I think it could’ve been significantly reduced without affecting the plot at all.
• I think that there was too much going – there seemed to be a lot of unnecessary plot points that could’ve easily been chopper.
• The FMCs and MMCs relationship was quite insta-love… Surely a relationship like that doesn’t just magically form after knowing someone for like 2 weeks?
Overall, this was a good read but it would’ve benefitted from some refinement. Definitely worth the read but not a MUST read.
This was quite a good read, especially as this is the authors debut novel. I enjoyed a lot of aspects of this book (academic setting, overcoming grief, games/trials, unique world building, plot twists galore). However, I think there were a few elements that brought the book down for me:
• I felt like the pacing was a little bit off. The 20-50% mark of this book seemed unnecessarily long. I think it could’ve been significantly reduced without affecting the plot at all.
• I think that there was too much going – there seemed to be a lot of unnecessary plot points that could’ve easily been chopper.
• The FMCs and MMCs relationship was quite insta-love… Surely a relationship like that doesn’t just magically form after knowing someone for like 2 weeks?
Overall, this was a good read but it would’ve benefitted from some refinement. Definitely worth the read but not a MUST read.
May 24, 2025
4 ⭐️
I was given a chance to read an advanced copy of this book and these are all my thoughts. Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC! 💕
The style of the writing is absolutely beautiful, everything is detailed in way that makes the story feel magical from the beginning.
Lyra’s life is filled with so much pain and injustice and guilt and somehow she still manages to be funny and sarcastic, she follows her instincts always which I loved because that’s usually half the problem with FMCs in fantasy… but her? I loved her.
Draven with his dark magic is definitely entering to the collection of top shadow daddy book boyfriends, but I was surprised at how quickly we saw a much softer side to him.
I’d say this is a reluctant allies to very quickly friends to lovers. Found family definitely present and some plot twists that’s I saw coming but a lot that I did not.
There’s only one spicy scene, if feels like we’re being left to explore more of the spice in books to come, I’d give this 1 🌶️ at most, but there mentions of SA (not between the main love interests) so be mindful of that.
All in all this was a really lovely read, it ends on a cliff hanger and even though it was single POV almost the entire book it does allure that the next book might have multiple POVS. I will definitely be reading the next one 💗
I was given a chance to read an advanced copy of this book and these are all my thoughts. Thank you to The Nerd Fam for the gifted ARC! 💕
The style of the writing is absolutely beautiful, everything is detailed in way that makes the story feel magical from the beginning.
Lyra’s life is filled with so much pain and injustice and guilt and somehow she still manages to be funny and sarcastic, she follows her instincts always which I loved because that’s usually half the problem with FMCs in fantasy… but her? I loved her.
Draven with his dark magic is definitely entering to the collection of top shadow daddy book boyfriends, but I was surprised at how quickly we saw a much softer side to him.
I’d say this is a reluctant allies to very quickly friends to lovers. Found family definitely present and some plot twists that’s I saw coming but a lot that I did not.
There’s only one spicy scene, if feels like we’re being left to explore more of the spice in books to come, I’d give this 1 🌶️ at most, but there mentions of SA (not between the main love interests) so be mindful of that.
All in all this was a really lovely read, it ends on a cliff hanger and even though it was single POV almost the entire book it does allure that the next book might have multiple POVS. I will definitely be reading the next one 💗
June 4, 2025
Y’all. I reached 95% in this book and had to physically PUT. IT. DOWN. I’m talking deep breaths. Closed the app. Stared into space. I was seconds away from launching my iPad across the room. Hazel S. Wilkes really sat down and chose emotional destruction with this one—
The FMC? Soft but strong, grieving but surviving. Guarded as hell, but not childish—grown woman energy. And the MMC?? My God. He falls FIRST. He falls HARD. He handles her with so much care it had me out here SOBBING. That man is a walking green flag and I will defend him with my whole chest.
Pacing dipped a bit in some places, sure—but when I say the IMPACT made up for that tenfold?? I am changed. I would’ve tabbed the life out of a physical copy and I STILL wouldn’t be able to do this story justice.
Hazel? Why would you break my heart like this!!!!
EPICC Breakdown:
— Entertainment: 5
— Plot/Pacing: 4 (but just barely)
— Impact: 6 (because OUCH)
— Characters: 5
Final rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And honestly?? Add another star just for that 95% moment that broke me in the best way.
The FMC? Soft but strong, grieving but surviving. Guarded as hell, but not childish—grown woman energy. And the MMC?? My God. He falls FIRST. He falls HARD. He handles her with so much care it had me out here SOBBING. That man is a walking green flag and I will defend him with my whole chest.
Pacing dipped a bit in some places, sure—but when I say the IMPACT made up for that tenfold?? I am changed. I would’ve tabbed the life out of a physical copy and I STILL wouldn’t be able to do this story justice.
Hazel? Why would you break my heart like this!!!!
EPICC Breakdown:
— Entertainment: 5
— Plot/Pacing: 4 (but just barely)
— Impact: 6 (because OUCH)
— Characters: 5
Final rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And honestly?? Add another star just for that 95% moment that broke me in the best way.
May 23, 2025
Thank you to The Nerd Fam for an eARC of this book!
This will take you on a journey full of action, adventure, and emotional healing. While it has that delicious romantasy formula we know and love, the completely original lore and unique magic brought something fresh to the table! The ending had me on the edge of my seat and I am BEGGING for the next one!
Pick this up if you like:
💜Found family
🤍Resilient FMC you can't help but root for
💜Dark and broody MMC who is only soft for her + shadow daddy
🤍Hidden powers
💜Mentor/mentee
🤍Trials
1🌶
This will take you on a journey full of action, adventure, and emotional healing. While it has that delicious romantasy formula we know and love, the completely original lore and unique magic brought something fresh to the table! The ending had me on the edge of my seat and I am BEGGING for the next one!
Pick this up if you like:
💜Found family
🤍Resilient FMC you can't help but root for
💜Dark and broody MMC who is only soft for her + shadow daddy
🤍Hidden powers
💜Mentor/mentee
🤍Trials
1🌶
June 3, 2025
WOW what an incredible debut novel!
I received an eARC for this story from The Nerd Family and I am so glad I did.
The story is in first-person POV from the FMC's (Lyra) perspective. Since the beginning this story draws you in with a magical kingdom, a cruel king, and a fierce FMC who will NOT lose.
Lyra is forced to compete in deadly entrance exams for a prestigious magical academy. Throughout the exams there is A LOT that happens. I enjoyed that the entrance exams weren't a compete against each other and kill each other situation. Not everyone would be accepted but harming the contestants was against the rules.
The MMC is loyal and protective and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and develop into a deep love.
The book gets so complicated and intriguing at about that 80% mark and the ending left me with so many questions. There were a few times I almost threw my Kindle across the room because I couldn't believe what happened!
I can't wait to continue this series and let me say that this debut is INCREDIBLE.
I received an eARC for this story from The Nerd Family and I am so glad I did.
The story is in first-person POV from the FMC's (Lyra) perspective. Since the beginning this story draws you in with a magical kingdom, a cruel king, and a fierce FMC who will NOT lose.
Lyra is forced to compete in deadly entrance exams for a prestigious magical academy. Throughout the exams there is A LOT that happens. I enjoyed that the entrance exams weren't a compete against each other and kill each other situation. Not everyone would be accepted but harming the contestants was against the rules.
The MMC is loyal and protective and I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow and develop into a deep love.
The book gets so complicated and intriguing at about that 80% mark and the ending left me with so many questions. There were a few times I almost threw my Kindle across the room because I couldn't believe what happened!
I can't wait to continue this series and let me say that this debut is INCREDIBLE.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 494 reviews