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Darkness Reigns #1
Above
“The only thing the purists hated more than eadi were the shaytan born from them.”
•••
Everything that ever was and ever will be, came from the stars.
On Dajahim, magic is awarded to those who earn it—who entertain and please the stars. Nova Tershetta was lucky enough to have her prayers answered, and she is now the first person in her known blood-line to possess magic. But all things come with a cost. While Nova now has centuries of life ahead of her as a magic-wielding shaytan, her family of non-magical eadi she treasures more than anything does not. After spending years researching a way to extend their lives, she is ready to take a different step: Elite Academy, which will afford her shadow magic and a chance at a better future for them all. But the elite forces consist of purist who would rather see of eadi like Nova die than so much as exist in a moment of peace or prosperity.
Can she survive long enough to complete academy and find a way to extend her family’s lives? Or will she, like so many of eadi before her, find that Dajahim is not a safe place for those who don’t fit the mold the purists have crafted?
•••
Everything that ever was and ever will be, came from the stars.
On Dajahim, magic is awarded to those who earn it—who entertain and please the stars. Nova Tershetta was lucky enough to have her prayers answered, and she is now the first person in her known blood-line to possess magic. But all things come with a cost. While Nova now has centuries of life ahead of her as a magic-wielding shaytan, her family of non-magical eadi she treasures more than anything does not. After spending years researching a way to extend their lives, she is ready to take a different step: Elite Academy, which will afford her shadow magic and a chance at a better future for them all. But the elite forces consist of purist who would rather see of eadi like Nova die than so much as exist in a moment of peace or prosperity.
Can she survive long enough to complete academy and find a way to extend her family’s lives? Or will she, like so many of eadi before her, find that Dajahim is not a safe place for those who don’t fit the mold the purists have crafted?
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About the author
Brea Lamb
4 books219 followersBrea has been obsessively reading since she was six years old, consuming any and all books she could get her hands on. Thus sparked the dream of creating something similar – a book that would make readers cry and laugh and smile and feel all those big emotions that she did. At nine-years-old, she wrote her first book. Over the years she would write many more, but it was not until Of Night and Blood that she finally felt the book she dreamed of writing had come to life. Since then, she has poured her soul into many more stories and has found herself in the process.
She spends her time advocating for human rights, drinking too much coffee, chasing around her children, and ordering new books for her endless TBR. She lives in the United States with her family
She spends her time advocating for human rights, drinking too much coffee, chasing around her children, and ordering new books for her endless TBR. She lives in the United States with her family
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 241 reviews
December 29, 2025
Genre: Adult Dark Distopian Fantasy
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 1.5/5
🧠 6/10
🎵 My Tears Richocet by Taylor Swift
Noteworthy: Please check content warnings. Book 1 of an incomplete series. Strong FMC. It ends on a cliffhanger. Dramione vibes! 😍
The cover alone had me excited. It turns out that sometimes you can judge a book by its cover. This was a gritty, enthralling read. It was dark, not just in character experiences and ambiance, but also in the nitty gritty of how relatable Nova is. From start to finish, we see her struggle non-stop with so many things. This power she asked for but sets her apart from those she loves. The need to protect and save her family. Navigating a world that doesn't want her in it while carefully straddling a line to keep a hold on her previous life. The way she is equally strong and fragile while trying to do all this. Her respect for the religion while also starting to question things. The mental health rep in this is spectacular and relatable. Pressure from within and without and dredging through the emotional sludge that comes with that. I know I'm rambling here, but honestly, it deserves so much praise!
Let's talk about the MMC(???) Azazel. Being inside the head of someone so indoctrinated into a cult like mentality is very frustrating at times. I kept waiting for the wool to fall off his eyes, but my man had it glued on. Yes, I absolutely felt sorry for him, which is attributed to the writing because he was heinous. If you are expecting your grandma's enemies to lovers story arc, you are going to be disappointed. For the majority of the book, I struggled to see any redemption for him with the FMC. I'm still not sure there is a comfortable way forward into lovers' territory here. This is the truest sense of enemies you can imagine. I'm crossing my fingers and my toes that he can get himself together in book 2.
The journey Nova goes on here with everyone in her life is heartbreaking. The combination of people being exactly who she thought they were and the betrayals she faces are a one-two punch. She walks a tightrope and often makes terrible and selfish choices. But you understand why she does it. I think I would do the same in her shoes every time.
Please read this book or put it on your Kindle TBR! I can't wait for book 2!
⭐️ 5/5
🌶 1.5/5
🧠 6/10
🎵 My Tears Richocet by Taylor Swift
Noteworthy: Please check content warnings. Book 1 of an incomplete series. Strong FMC. It ends on a cliffhanger. Dramione vibes! 😍
The cover alone had me excited. It turns out that sometimes you can judge a book by its cover. This was a gritty, enthralling read. It was dark, not just in character experiences and ambiance, but also in the nitty gritty of how relatable Nova is. From start to finish, we see her struggle non-stop with so many things. This power she asked for but sets her apart from those she loves. The need to protect and save her family. Navigating a world that doesn't want her in it while carefully straddling a line to keep a hold on her previous life. The way she is equally strong and fragile while trying to do all this. Her respect for the religion while also starting to question things. The mental health rep in this is spectacular and relatable. Pressure from within and without and dredging through the emotional sludge that comes with that. I know I'm rambling here, but honestly, it deserves so much praise!
Let's talk about the MMC(???) Azazel. Being inside the head of someone so indoctrinated into a cult like mentality is very frustrating at times. I kept waiting for the wool to fall off his eyes, but my man had it glued on. Yes, I absolutely felt sorry for him, which is attributed to the writing because he was heinous. If you are expecting your grandma's enemies to lovers story arc, you are going to be disappointed. For the majority of the book, I struggled to see any redemption for him with the FMC. I'm still not sure there is a comfortable way forward into lovers' territory here. This is the truest sense of enemies you can imagine. I'm crossing my fingers and my toes that he can get himself together in book 2.
The journey Nova goes on here with everyone in her life is heartbreaking. The combination of people being exactly who she thought they were and the betrayals she faces are a one-two punch. She walks a tightrope and often makes terrible and selfish choices. But you understand why she does it. I think I would do the same in her shoes every time.
Please read this book or put it on your Kindle TBR! I can't wait for book 2!
September 12, 2025
Brea Lamb, what is wrong with you?! (complimentary)
Above completely GUTTED me.
I admittedly was nervous about reading this book because it is dystopian, which is a subgenere of fantasy I am somewhat just getting into, and it also features trials, which I tend to find confusing. However, I had absolutely nothing to worry about, because I loved both the trials and the way this dystopian world was executed. The magic system was compelling, the caste system was well thought out, and the pain just did not stop!
One of the things I loved most is how unlikable but completely lovable Nova is LOL. This sounds like a critique, but this concept is such a delicate balance to strike, and Lamb executes it flawlessly. All the times I wanted Nova to be strong, she showed weakness. When I wanted her to say no, she tucked her head down and went with the flow. But when she got fed up and put her foot down, I was cheering her on so loudly! I really enjoyed her arc and the ways she thinks before she acts, and I thought her childish banter with her sister was endearing as the youngest of four girls who bicker and mock each other like we're all not in our 30s.
All of the characters are morally black because the world they exist in is dark. But that is not to say these characters lack in love or affection or longing or obsession, because these elements are very present as well.
I spent the entire book thinking one character was the MMC that I missed so many signs about what was actually happening beneath the surface. That's not to say the love story is confusing, but it is to say the writing in this area is crafty and layered and I should've been sharper! The way the romance is executed—a true enemies to lovers—was so excellent. I don't feel like enemies to lovers has ever had me on the edge of my seat the way this book did!
I cried so much at the end, my flabbers were ghasted, and I can't believe this is over. If you want a dystopian fantasy that has political parallels with present times, feminine rage, heartbreaking twists, deception, violence, and petty stars in place of gods, I am begging you to pick this up ASAP.
Thank you to Twisted Tales PR and Brea Lamb for sending me an ARC!
5 ⭐️s
2 🌶️
Above completely GUTTED me.
I admittedly was nervous about reading this book because it is dystopian, which is a subgenere of fantasy I am somewhat just getting into, and it also features trials, which I tend to find confusing. However, I had absolutely nothing to worry about, because I loved both the trials and the way this dystopian world was executed. The magic system was compelling, the caste system was well thought out, and the pain just did not stop!
One of the things I loved most is how unlikable but completely lovable Nova is LOL. This sounds like a critique, but this concept is such a delicate balance to strike, and Lamb executes it flawlessly. All the times I wanted Nova to be strong, she showed weakness. When I wanted her to say no, she tucked her head down and went with the flow. But when she got fed up and put her foot down, I was cheering her on so loudly! I really enjoyed her arc and the ways she thinks before she acts, and I thought her childish banter with her sister was endearing as the youngest of four girls who bicker and mock each other like we're all not in our 30s.
All of the characters are morally black because the world they exist in is dark. But that is not to say these characters lack in love or affection or longing or obsession, because these elements are very present as well.
I spent the entire book thinking one character was the MMC that I missed so many signs about what was actually happening beneath the surface. That's not to say the love story is confusing, but it is to say the writing in this area is crafty and layered and I should've been sharper! The way the romance is executed—a true enemies to lovers—was so excellent. I don't feel like enemies to lovers has ever had me on the edge of my seat the way this book did!
I cried so much at the end, my flabbers were ghasted, and I can't believe this is over. If you want a dystopian fantasy that has political parallels with present times, feminine rage, heartbreaking twists, deception, violence, and petty stars in place of gods, I am begging you to pick this up ASAP.
Thank you to Twisted Tales PR and Brea Lamb for sending me an ARC!
5 ⭐️s
2 🌶️
September 8, 2025
Finished this at 01:15 in the morning. Wow, This was brilliant! Need to gather my thoughts to write a proper review though.
September 1, 2025
This was my first book by Brea Lamb but will absolutely not be my last!!!
This is the first book in her Darkness Reign series, and I ate everything about this book up!
I could not put this story down; there were so many unique elements. This story is dark, gritty, and the world is morally black. I would say this is a dystopian fantasy that even gives a little bit of Dramione vibes. This book will have you feeling all kinds of emotions and questioning your morals and values as you read the story and even see some similarities between our own world today. Political themes throughout the book as you dive into corruption, power, propaganda and brainwashing. This book will have you fuming with injustice, the authors writing will completely captivate you and you will not want to finish.
This book is set in a world where elites (the core families) hold all the power and people without magic (eadi-born) are cast out like a plague. Nova, our FMC, is Eadi-born but blessed with magic from the stars and sent to Academy. Nova just wants to graduate and help her family but along the the path is not an easy one since she is a target because of her "un-pure blood". I absolutely love Nova, she challenges others to think for themselves in a world where everyone thinks how they are told to.
What to Expect
🖤Dystopian Setting
🖤Morally Black World
🖤Enemies to lovers
🖤Dual POV
🖤Trials
🖤Slow burn
I will say that there are some dark themes so please check your trigger warnings, but I would absolutely recommend this read! LOVED IT!!!!
Pre-Read Review: A Dark Romantasy..Give Me Give Me!
This is the first book in her Darkness Reign series, and I ate everything about this book up!
I could not put this story down; there were so many unique elements. This story is dark, gritty, and the world is morally black. I would say this is a dystopian fantasy that even gives a little bit of Dramione vibes. This book will have you feeling all kinds of emotions and questioning your morals and values as you read the story and even see some similarities between our own world today. Political themes throughout the book as you dive into corruption, power, propaganda and brainwashing. This book will have you fuming with injustice, the authors writing will completely captivate you and you will not want to finish.
This book is set in a world where elites (the core families) hold all the power and people without magic (eadi-born) are cast out like a plague. Nova, our FMC, is Eadi-born but blessed with magic from the stars and sent to Academy. Nova just wants to graduate and help her family but along the the path is not an easy one since she is a target because of her "un-pure blood". I absolutely love Nova, she challenges others to think for themselves in a world where everyone thinks how they are told to.
What to Expect
🖤Dystopian Setting
🖤Morally Black World
🖤Enemies to lovers
🖤Dual POV
🖤Trials
🖤Slow burn
I will say that there are some dark themes so please check your trigger warnings, but I would absolutely recommend this read! LOVED IT!!!!
Pre-Read Review: A Dark Romantasy..Give Me Give Me!
August 14, 2025
What a good read! Lots of twist and turns with this book and I enjoyed the character development in here as well. However, the story did take me a minute to understand where this plot was going and what exactly was going on as this is a very descriptive story so I had to re-read some parts but overall, this was a great story that ends on a cliffhanger and I thought the magic system was pretty unique!
July 7, 2025
You know a book is good when you end it by yelling at the wall that you knew it and then staring at said wall for a few minutes.
Full review to come after I finish staring at the wall.
Okay, I’m back from staring at the wall.
Brea Lamb, the queen of emotional devastation, emotional trauma, and cliffhangers: I love you, but why have you done this to me?
I would describe this book as a socio-political dystopian that rips your soul out and tears your heart to shreds in a fantasy world. But like, in a good way.
Talon, the emotional manipulator, woman controlling sweetheart for the most part, I’ve got my eye on you buddy.
Okay, now for the actual review that isn’t just me going on tiny tangents.
I absolutely loved this book. I loveee dark fantasy worlds, and this one absolutely delivered everything I was looking for. Nova just wants to keep her family alive with her forever, so she goes against everything she believes in and enters this academy where she needs to fight to stay alive in order to keep her family alive.
And of course, the hottie with white/silver hair is trying to kill her because she wasn’t born with power like the rest of them, but was rather given it later in life. I want to reiterate that this isn’t one of those situations where the fmc is powerless. She very much has power. The world of people with power is racist to people who weren’t naturally given it at birth, and Nova received it in her 20s.
Speaking of her 20s, Nova received her power when she’s 25 (or 24. I’m sorry, I can’t remember) and 25 years have passed since then. So she’s 50 now looking like a 25 year old. But she doesn’t really always act like she’s 50. More often than not, I was getting 20 year old or younger. It aided in showing us how naive and vulnerable she is, but at the same time, I felt like she wasn’t the age she was supposed to be. Her sister Celeste was even worse. Celeste acted like she was younger than Nova, even though Celeste is older than Nova. That was the main part, and pretty much the only part, of the book that bugged me.
This is a true enemies to lovers story. They don’t even remotely like each other in this book. Note: they’re still enemies at the end of the book. This is the case of having a different love interest in the first book than the ultimate love interest. If you don’t like that trope, read this book anyway because I promise you’ll love it.
This book has some classic tropes that we love, like one bed, who did this to you, etc., but they weren’t just thrown in there for the sake of it. They were actually done really well and felt like they weren’t the often cheesy tropes.
Something else I thought was done really well was the world building. This book describes everything we could possibly need to know beautifully, giving us history but not in a long, drawn out way. We learn about the world in snippets that organically fit into the plot, helping to move the story rather than stopping it.
Now If you’re here because you love the academy setting, just know, it’s not a major component. Yes, they’re at the academy, but the academy is minor compared to the romance and magic.
I could keep talking about this more, but this review is already long enough, so I’m going to stop.
Thank you so incredibly much to Brea Lamb for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Full review to come after I finish staring at the wall.
Okay, I’m back from staring at the wall.
Brea Lamb, the queen of emotional devastation, emotional trauma, and cliffhangers: I love you, but why have you done this to me?
I would describe this book as a socio-political dystopian that rips your soul out and tears your heart to shreds in a fantasy world. But like, in a good way.
Talon, the emotional manipulator, woman controlling sweetheart for the most part, I’ve got my eye on you buddy.
Okay, now for the actual review that isn’t just me going on tiny tangents.
I absolutely loved this book. I loveee dark fantasy worlds, and this one absolutely delivered everything I was looking for. Nova just wants to keep her family alive with her forever, so she goes against everything she believes in and enters this academy where she needs to fight to stay alive in order to keep her family alive.
And of course, the hottie with white/silver hair is trying to kill her because she wasn’t born with power like the rest of them, but was rather given it later in life. I want to reiterate that this isn’t one of those situations where the fmc is powerless. She very much has power. The world of people with power is racist to people who weren’t naturally given it at birth, and Nova received it in her 20s.
Speaking of her 20s, Nova received her power when she’s 25 (or 24. I’m sorry, I can’t remember) and 25 years have passed since then. So she’s 50 now looking like a 25 year old. But she doesn’t really always act like she’s 50. More often than not, I was getting 20 year old or younger. It aided in showing us how naive and vulnerable she is, but at the same time, I felt like she wasn’t the age she was supposed to be. Her sister Celeste was even worse. Celeste acted like she was younger than Nova, even though Celeste is older than Nova. That was the main part, and pretty much the only part, of the book that bugged me.
This is a true enemies to lovers story. They don’t even remotely like each other in this book. Note: they’re still enemies at the end of the book. This is the case of having a different love interest in the first book than the ultimate love interest. If you don’t like that trope, read this book anyway because I promise you’ll love it.
This book has some classic tropes that we love, like one bed, who did this to you, etc., but they weren’t just thrown in there for the sake of it. They were actually done really well and felt like they weren’t the often cheesy tropes.
Something else I thought was done really well was the world building. This book describes everything we could possibly need to know beautifully, giving us history but not in a long, drawn out way. We learn about the world in snippets that organically fit into the plot, helping to move the story rather than stopping it.
Now If you’re here because you love the academy setting, just know, it’s not a major component. Yes, they’re at the academy, but the academy is minor compared to the romance and magic.
I could keep talking about this more, but this review is already long enough, so I’m going to stop.
Thank you so incredibly much to Brea Lamb for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2025
This book was phenomenal! There were so many unique elements to this story. You will feel swept up by the emotions that are very parallel to what’s going on in our world today. It’s very raw and full of heart-wrenching moments. True enemies, born to h 8 t e one another in a politically intrigued dark dystopian fantasy where the magic system is so unique, you cannot stop turning the pages.
You want feminine rage? Here it is.
You want true enemies? :grins: You’re in for a ride.
♾️
TOP READ of 2025!
Bravo Brea!! I’m so incredibly proud of you!
You want feminine rage? Here it is.
You want true enemies? :grins: You’re in for a ride.
♾️
TOP READ of 2025!
Bravo Brea!! I’m so incredibly proud of you!
August 5, 2025
•• “𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘷𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘰𝘸”
Beware, dear reader, for the stars do not play fair. This story will have you questioning your morals, rooting for the villain (mostly), and leave you balancing between rage and despair.
This is a morally black world where magic divides and is used to fuel corruption and hate - and our fmc Nova finds herself caught in the middle of it all. As the sole member of her family blessed with magic she doesn’t truly fit into her world, but she is a force to be reckoned with nonetheless. While there is a lot of world building upfront, Nova’s fiery spirit will keep you locked in and unable to put this down.
Because of the divisive nature of this world this is a 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 enemies to lovers story with a 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 slow burn. The hatred is palpable on both ends and leads to some delicious tension and snarky banter, as well as a few assassination attempts. These characters have a lot of growth left to accomplish so don’t plan to swoon over the villain just yet - but you can expect to see small changes throughout that will have you actually defending him in the end.
•• “𝘈 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘞𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩”
The last quarter of this book is a wild ride, truly. Things finally start to feel like they are headed in the right direction just to be derailed in the most spectacular and painful way possible. There’s manipulation and betrayals galore but I’m feeling optimistic about the next installment and I’m loving where this is headed.
What you can expect:
• 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱
• 𝗦𝗹𝗼𝘄𝘄𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻
• 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 ?
• 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹
• 𝗕𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝘆
• 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴/ 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
• 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗹𝘀
• 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗽
Beware, dear reader, for the stars do not play fair. This story will have you questioning your morals, rooting for the villain (mostly), and leave you balancing between rage and despair.
This is a morally black world where magic divides and is used to fuel corruption and hate - and our fmc Nova finds herself caught in the middle of it all. As the sole member of her family blessed with magic she doesn’t truly fit into her world, but she is a force to be reckoned with nonetheless. While there is a lot of world building upfront, Nova’s fiery spirit will keep you locked in and unable to put this down.
Because of the divisive nature of this world this is a 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 enemies to lovers story with a 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 slow burn. The hatred is palpable on both ends and leads to some delicious tension and snarky banter, as well as a few assassination attempts. These characters have a lot of growth left to accomplish so don’t plan to swoon over the villain just yet - but you can expect to see small changes throughout that will have you actually defending him in the end.
•• “𝘈 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘞𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭. 𝘈𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘯𝘦, 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘯𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩”
The last quarter of this book is a wild ride, truly. Things finally start to feel like they are headed in the right direction just to be derailed in the most spectacular and painful way possible. There’s manipulation and betrayals galore but I’m feeling optimistic about the next installment and I’m loving where this is headed.
What you can expect:
• 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱
• 𝗦𝗹𝗼𝘄𝘄𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻
• 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 ?
• 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹
• 𝗕𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝘆
• 𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘄𝗮𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴/ 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗰𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻
• 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗹𝘀
• 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗿𝗲𝗽
September 7, 2025
fem rage, a TRUE enemy love interest, with morally black characters, and a truly devious society. this tackled so many difficult and uncomfortable societal, mental, and emotional topics, but handled them with so much care imo. this was a dark one, but included such an important perspective to read. pleeease check trigger warnings 🖤
ngl, the betrayal made me sick, and the cliffhanger ending had my heart racing 😩 i’m still hopeful for some sort of hea 🥹 but i have a feeling nova is going to be out for blood in book two. i’m SO excited to see what’s in store for her in the next book!
“darkness reigns from above, and i worship from below.”
thank you so much to brea lamb for gifting me a copy of this e arc! i can’t wait to have a copy on my shelf 🖤
if you enjoy -
• dark dystopian fantasy
• dual pov
• TRUE slowww burn
• TRUE enemies to ???
• harsh magic academy
• morally black everyone
• brainwashing propaganda, corruption, indoctrination & betrayals
ngl, the betrayal made me sick, and the cliffhanger ending had my heart racing 😩 i’m still hopeful for some sort of hea 🥹 but i have a feeling nova is going to be out for blood in book two. i’m SO excited to see what’s in store for her in the next book!
“darkness reigns from above, and i worship from below.”
thank you so much to brea lamb for gifting me a copy of this e arc! i can’t wait to have a copy on my shelf 🖤
if you enjoy -
• dark dystopian fantasy
• dual pov
• TRUE slowww burn
• TRUE enemies to ???
• harsh magic academy
• morally black everyone
• brainwashing propaganda, corruption, indoctrination & betrayals
August 28, 2025
💀"People will always find a way to justify the atrocities they commit in the name of their own betterment- even if that means throwing out their humanity in the process."
⭐5 🌶️1.5
Guys THIS BOOK IS SO FCKING GOOD OMMMMGGGGGG
It’s giving major Dramione vibes and I am HERE FOR IT
I’m obsessed with stories that lay the groundwork for a truly incredible trilogy and this one absolutely delivers. It’s a dark fantasy that dives into propaganda, indoctrination, abuse, and brainwashing.... I am so addicted to stories that dive into the dark side of life
One of my favorite things about this book is the slow burn.
We SLOWLY get to know Nova, like I’m learning who she is right alongside her.
We SLOWLLYYY watch characters begin to question everything they’ve been taught and it makes the story feel so real, like I’m living through a raw, cinematic experience.
There’s no instant gratification here.... we’re literally walking the path with them and feeling every bit of anguish and it’s so so so worth it.
The brainwashing element is hands down my favorite part. Nova pushes others to question everything they’ve known… while simultaneously questioning herself and her own identity.
That inner conflict is so fucking powerful to me.
It’s a story of war between the purists and the “less than” between those blessed by the stars and those who aren’t. And it is absolutely addicting.
Yes, the cliffhanger will wreck you but the journey is so worth it.
This is a war story I want to be part of, and I cannot wait for what’s next
Brea Lamb you are a dark fantasy genius!!
⭐5 🌶️1.5
Guys THIS BOOK IS SO FCKING GOOD OMMMMGGGGGG
It’s giving major Dramione vibes and I am HERE FOR IT
I’m obsessed with stories that lay the groundwork for a truly incredible trilogy and this one absolutely delivers. It’s a dark fantasy that dives into propaganda, indoctrination, abuse, and brainwashing.... I am so addicted to stories that dive into the dark side of life
One of my favorite things about this book is the slow burn.
We SLOWLY get to know Nova, like I’m learning who she is right alongside her.
We SLOWLLYYY watch characters begin to question everything they’ve been taught and it makes the story feel so real, like I’m living through a raw, cinematic experience.
There’s no instant gratification here.... we’re literally walking the path with them and feeling every bit of anguish and it’s so so so worth it.
The brainwashing element is hands down my favorite part. Nova pushes others to question everything they’ve known… while simultaneously questioning herself and her own identity.
That inner conflict is so fucking powerful to me.
It’s a story of war between the purists and the “less than” between those blessed by the stars and those who aren’t. And it is absolutely addicting.
Yes, the cliffhanger will wreck you but the journey is so worth it.
This is a war story I want to be part of, and I cannot wait for what’s next
Brea Lamb you are a dark fantasy genius!!
August 13, 2025
Thank you Brea Lamb and Legends Literary Management for the gifted arc!! I was absolutely hooked from the very first page, and this is so different from anything I’ve ever read. This is a brutal, messed up world and I ate up every single word. This is a dystopian fantasy, and there are SO MANY parallels with the current state of the world—I was highlighting things left and right. Also, I’m always a hoe for a magical academy setting
Brea is a master at writing morally grey leads. Nova is absolutely the product of her environment, and she does what she needs to do in order for her and her family to survive. We obviously know Azazel is the MMC, but as of right now, it’s enemies to ???? and the burn is SLOW. Azazel is also the product of his environment, and I feel like there’s going to be a really great character arc in subsequent books. In this book, though, Nova is with Talon. Talon is one of those “nice guys” that slowly shows his true colors, and he gave me sus vibes from the beginning.
The ending of this was absolutely crazy, and I’m literally gnawing on the bars of my enclosure for the next book. I have so many questions and thoughts. I can’t wait to see Nova on her revenge tour
Brea is a master at writing morally grey leads. Nova is absolutely the product of her environment, and she does what she needs to do in order for her and her family to survive. We obviously know Azazel is the MMC, but as of right now, it’s enemies to ???? and the burn is SLOW. Azazel is also the product of his environment, and I feel like there’s going to be a really great character arc in subsequent books. In this book, though, Nova is with Talon. Talon is one of those “nice guys” that slowly shows his true colors, and he gave me sus vibes from the beginning.
The ending of this was absolutely crazy, and I’m literally gnawing on the bars of my enclosure for the next book. I have so many questions and thoughts. I can’t wait to see Nova on her revenge tour
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
I’m not sure what Brea put in this book, but I devoured this. This book is an absolute masterpiece. I hadn’t realized I had never read true enemies to lovers until this book and I’m OBSESSED!!
Brea Lamb knows how to write a badass FMC. Not only is Nova Tershetta incredibly strong and determined, she’s relatable in the sense that she cares for her family above all and struggles with her mental health and perfectionism. I couldn’t help but see myself in her—this realistic portrayal gave her character so much depth.
This story was a breath of fresh air. It felt incredibly unique and captivating, and I found myself unable to predict the ending. The rollercoaster of emotions I felt while reading this—I have no words (just tears). Trust me the pain is sooooo worth it. I can’t recommend this book enough!
𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆:
📚 Academic Setting
🖤 Forbidden Enemies to Lovers
✨ Celestial Magic System
⚔️ Forced Proximity
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
Brea Lamb knows how to write a badass FMC. Not only is Nova Tershetta incredibly strong and determined, she’s relatable in the sense that she cares for her family above all and struggles with her mental health and perfectionism. I couldn’t help but see myself in her—this realistic portrayal gave her character so much depth.
This story was a breath of fresh air. It felt incredibly unique and captivating, and I found myself unable to predict the ending. The rollercoaster of emotions I felt while reading this—I have no words (just tears). Trust me the pain is sooooo worth it. I can’t recommend this book enough!
𝑹𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒇 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆:
📚 Academic Setting
🖤 Forbidden Enemies to Lovers
✨ Celestial Magic System
⚔️ Forced Proximity
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
September 26, 2025
This book took me forever to finish, and before you think to yourself “oh that’s not a good sign” I would have to disagree.
I took my time with this book. The plot unfolded beautifully, the plot twists stung even more, and the emotional connection built slowly.
Please, PLEASE check the TW’s in this before reading, I would consider this a dark fantasy romance as it deals with a lot of emotional and physical trauma and abuse.
I really felt deeply connected to Nova by the end and I want to see her flourish in the next book, my girl has been THROUGH IT.
I very much enjoyed this book and I need to see where we go from here because the cliffy was brutal (in the best way)
I took my time with this book. The plot unfolded beautifully, the plot twists stung even more, and the emotional connection built slowly.
Please, PLEASE check the TW’s in this before reading, I would consider this a dark fantasy romance as it deals with a lot of emotional and physical trauma and abuse.
I really felt deeply connected to Nova by the end and I want to see her flourish in the next book, my girl has been THROUGH IT.
I very much enjoyed this book and I need to see where we go from here because the cliffy was brutal (in the best way)
August 16, 2025
I was lucky to be an ARC reader for this book!
This book was a very interesting read and navigated a bunch of different topics that I really enjoyed reading about! I loved the struggle for power in a world that favours those born into privilege, the fight for family and fight for rights in a world that doesn't want her to exist.
The book alternates POV between the main male character and female character. The female chraracter is empowered, works hard for what she wants and questions things. This man, boy let me tell you he is brainwashed BAD. He will do anything to continue the words of this cult. I was lowkey waiting for his redeption arc, it never came. He just got worse and worse, no enemies to lovers here just pure enemies and hatred. I kinda liked it though?
I wasn't sure what to expect. No male character can be trusted in this story, but I also have so much love for both main male characters although they're manipulative and vile characters. The female character thought?! Chefs kiss. Strong, powerful, determined. THE FEMININE RAGE I felt throughout this book just UGH but give me more!!!
This book was a very interesting read and navigated a bunch of different topics that I really enjoyed reading about! I loved the struggle for power in a world that favours those born into privilege, the fight for family and fight for rights in a world that doesn't want her to exist.
The book alternates POV between the main male character and female character. The female chraracter is empowered, works hard for what she wants and questions things. This man, boy let me tell you he is brainwashed BAD. He will do anything to continue the words of this cult. I was lowkey waiting for his redeption arc, it never came. He just got worse and worse, no enemies to lovers here just pure enemies and hatred. I kinda liked it though?
I wasn't sure what to expect. No male character can be trusted in this story, but I also have so much love for both main male characters although they're manipulative and vile characters. The female character thought?! Chefs kiss. Strong, powerful, determined. THE FEMININE RAGE I felt throughout this book just UGH but give me more!!!
August 23, 2025
5 🌟 2 🌶️
Whew, this was INTENSE! It’s dark and gritty. The world is so fvcked up. I can’t tell you how many times I just wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall! The rage at the injustice that so closely parallels the same horrors we are witnessing in our own society had me up in arms and on edge! The clear message this story is sending about standing up and being loud in your fight against corruption will have you plotting ways to take back power over your own life. It’s eye-opening!
Add this to your TBR if you enjoy these things: 👇
Morally Black World
Academy Setting
Political Intrigue
Feminine Rage
Mental Health Rep
Slow Burn
Villain Gets The Girl
Tension and Banter
Betrayal
They call her “Supernova” and “Little Void”
Explores themes of Pr0paganda, br4inwashing, and !ndoctrination
In a world where the Elites and Core families hold all of the power and authority over the people, the eadi (non-magical) are looked at like the scvm of the world, a plague to eradicate. Nova is the child of eadis and when she is blessed with magic from the stars, her *impure* blood makes her the target of the core families in the Elite Academy. She only wants to survive to graduate from the Academy and find a way to save her family from their short human lifespan.
She is taken under the wing of a core family member after numerous attempts on her life. His goal is to see her through the trials 👀. He’s s3xy, protective, possessive, obsessive and devoted to keeping her safe… sounds great, right? Well, we can’t forget about the General’s son whose entire mission at the Academy is to make it out on top and redeem his family’s legacy while ensuring she does NOT SURVIVE to graduation. He’s also pretty s3xy and a lot scary. Sounds bad, yeah?
This book will ENRAGE you and the writing will captivate you! I felt like I blinked and read 300 pages. Dual POV really helped with understanding the motivations behind the character’s actions. I was so thoroughly engrossed and waiting for the moment everything would come crashing down, and boy did it ever! 🔥🔥 I can’t wait for the rebellion!
Whew, this was INTENSE! It’s dark and gritty. The world is so fvcked up. I can’t tell you how many times I just wanted to throw my Kindle against the wall! The rage at the injustice that so closely parallels the same horrors we are witnessing in our own society had me up in arms and on edge! The clear message this story is sending about standing up and being loud in your fight against corruption will have you plotting ways to take back power over your own life. It’s eye-opening!
Add this to your TBR if you enjoy these things: 👇
Morally Black World
Academy Setting
Political Intrigue
Feminine Rage
Mental Health Rep
Slow Burn
Villain Gets The Girl
Tension and Banter
Betrayal
They call her “Supernova” and “Little Void”
Explores themes of Pr0paganda, br4inwashing, and !ndoctrination
In a world where the Elites and Core families hold all of the power and authority over the people, the eadi (non-magical) are looked at like the scvm of the world, a plague to eradicate. Nova is the child of eadis and when she is blessed with magic from the stars, her *impure* blood makes her the target of the core families in the Elite Academy. She only wants to survive to graduate from the Academy and find a way to save her family from their short human lifespan.
She is taken under the wing of a core family member after numerous attempts on her life. His goal is to see her through the trials 👀. He’s s3xy, protective, possessive, obsessive and devoted to keeping her safe… sounds great, right? Well, we can’t forget about the General’s son whose entire mission at the Academy is to make it out on top and redeem his family’s legacy while ensuring she does NOT SURVIVE to graduation. He’s also pretty s3xy and a lot scary. Sounds bad, yeah?
This book will ENRAGE you and the writing will captivate you! I felt like I blinked and read 300 pages. Dual POV really helped with understanding the motivations behind the character’s actions. I was so thoroughly engrossed and waiting for the moment everything would come crashing down, and boy did it ever! 🔥🔥 I can’t wait for the rebellion!
August 26, 2025
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: Above (Darkness Reigns, Book 1)
Eadi-born, Nova is blessed with magic from the stars. To save her family, she’s determined to become an elite soldier with powerful magic and resources. But what awaits her at the academy is danger and betrayal at every turn. In a world where the stars determine fate, is Nova destined to lose it all?
Tropes:
👀Dual POV
🖤Dark, Morally Black World
🏫Academy Setting
🦹🏻♂️Villain Gets the Girl
🪧Themes of Bråinwashing, Propagandå, & Indoctrinåtion
🙌Feminine Rage
❤️🩹Mental Health Rep
🔥Slow Burn
Driven by desperation and loyalty to her family, Nova puts herself at risk. Against the odds and the core families who would see her fail (and exterminåted), Nova pushes to excel in her courses and honing her magic.
Azazel was born into an indoctrinåted core family with wealth and privilege, a juxtaposition to Nova’s meager background. But he struggles for approval and from his cold and calculating family. And Nova just became his greatest threat.
With devastating betrayals, dark machinations, and growing unrest looming, Nova and Azazel must navigate their feelings and plans as lines between good and evil and loathing and longing blur.
Above is a tension-filled, raw, and emotional installment in a new dark Romantasy perfect for fans of true enemies to lovers, dystopian and academy vibes, and dēadly intrigue!
Huge thanks to the author and @twistedtalespr for the review copy opportunity. This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: Above (Darkness Reigns, Book 1)
Eadi-born, Nova is blessed with magic from the stars. To save her family, she’s determined to become an elite soldier with powerful magic and resources. But what awaits her at the academy is danger and betrayal at every turn. In a world where the stars determine fate, is Nova destined to lose it all?
Tropes:
👀Dual POV
🖤Dark, Morally Black World
🏫Academy Setting
🦹🏻♂️Villain Gets the Girl
🪧Themes of Bråinwashing, Propagandå, & Indoctrinåtion
🙌Feminine Rage
❤️🩹Mental Health Rep
🔥Slow Burn
Driven by desperation and loyalty to her family, Nova puts herself at risk. Against the odds and the core families who would see her fail (and exterminåted), Nova pushes to excel in her courses and honing her magic.
Azazel was born into an indoctrinåted core family with wealth and privilege, a juxtaposition to Nova’s meager background. But he struggles for approval and from his cold and calculating family. And Nova just became his greatest threat.
With devastating betrayals, dark machinations, and growing unrest looming, Nova and Azazel must navigate their feelings and plans as lines between good and evil and loathing and longing blur.
Above is a tension-filled, raw, and emotional installment in a new dark Romantasy perfect for fans of true enemies to lovers, dystopian and academy vibes, and dēadly intrigue!
Huge thanks to the author and @twistedtalespr for the review copy opportunity. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 9, 2025
From the very first page, Above pulled me straight into its world. Brea Lamb’s descriptive writing is absolutely stunning. Every character feels alive, every location vivid and tangible. It’s the kind of storytelling where you can smell the air, feel the tension, and practically watch the scenes play out like a movie in your mind.
The pacing is quick and addictive, keeping me hooked from chapter to chapter, yet it never skimps on detail. Every scene is layered with just enough description to make it memorable without slowing the momentum, and there’s just the right hint of spice to keep things interesting without overpowering the plot.
Chapter 49 deserves its own shoutout—when the twist hit, I literally jumped out of my chair and yelled, “I knew it!” That rush of excitement is exactly why I read. But then came the ending… and wow. The ending was a total punch to the gut. I was left staring at the last page in disbelief, instantly wishing I had Book 2 in my hands.
If you’re looking for a story that’s immersive, detailed, and full of jaw-dropping moments, Above will absolutely deliver. Just be prepared to clear your schedule. You won’t want to put it down.
The pacing is quick and addictive, keeping me hooked from chapter to chapter, yet it never skimps on detail. Every scene is layered with just enough description to make it memorable without slowing the momentum, and there’s just the right hint of spice to keep things interesting without overpowering the plot.
Chapter 49 deserves its own shoutout—when the twist hit, I literally jumped out of my chair and yelled, “I knew it!” That rush of excitement is exactly why I read. But then came the ending… and wow. The ending was a total punch to the gut. I was left staring at the last page in disbelief, instantly wishing I had Book 2 in my hands.
If you’re looking for a story that’s immersive, detailed, and full of jaw-dropping moments, Above will absolutely deliver. Just be prepared to clear your schedule. You won’t want to put it down.
August 25, 2025
Thank you Brea for the ARC!
I LOVED this and I loved Nova's rage. Y'all want a true enemies situation? Where they spend literally the entire book trying to kill each other and by the end they still hate each other?? PRAYERS ARE ANSWERED HERE FOLKS!
And I'm not going to lie, I saw the "twist" coming from the beginning (I read too much, it's a problem), but it still made me want to throw my book across the room. And honestly? Nova gets MAD points for how she handled it, because I would have immediately burned everything to the GROUND without a second thought in her shoes. Once again, FMCs handle their rage and anger better than I ever would.
I love Nova a lot--she does everything she does for her family and her love for them and wanting them to stay alive alongside her. And she loves so fiercely she goes straight up morally black at points just for them. And we love to see it!! But honestly, as much as I love Nova, I think Death is my favorite character. If anything happens to Death, I will RIOT.
If you're looking for a rage filled FMC that touches on power dynamics and bringing down a corrupt system (with violence, obviously, because that's absolutely the energy we need right now), you HAVE to read this one!!
I LOVED this and I loved Nova's rage. Y'all want a true enemies situation? Where they spend literally the entire book trying to kill each other and by the end they still hate each other?? PRAYERS ARE ANSWERED HERE FOLKS!
And I'm not going to lie, I saw the "twist" coming from the beginning (I read too much, it's a problem), but it still made me want to throw my book across the room. And honestly? Nova gets MAD points for how she handled it, because I would have immediately burned everything to the GROUND without a second thought in her shoes. Once again, FMCs handle their rage and anger better than I ever would.
I love Nova a lot--she does everything she does for her family and her love for them and wanting them to stay alive alongside her. And she loves so fiercely she goes straight up morally black at points just for them. And we love to see it!! But honestly, as much as I love Nova, I think Death is my favorite character. If anything happens to Death, I will RIOT.
If you're looking for a rage filled FMC that touches on power dynamics and bringing down a corrupt system (with violence, obviously, because that's absolutely the energy we need right now), you HAVE to read this one!!
September 1, 2025
This was a 2.5-3 star read imo
This was advertised as an academic setting with trials and honestly that felt like a side trope to this book. The trials were pretty basic and the academy setting was mostly there to explain people being in dorms/barracks.
Unfortunately this book had too many immature characters for me. The FMC and her sister are supposedly in their 50’s but literally mock each other like 8 year olds would.
“ “yes im so eager to meet them”
“I’m so excited to meet them” I mocked in a particularly whiny tone”
Like…you’re grown ass adults.
Nova is supposed to be strong and smart and cunning but acts like a shell of a person the majority of the time at the academy.
Her family was unbelievable as well, Nova wanted them to live as long as her but they wanted to die at a normal age. I see both sides of this but her sister was the biggest asshole about it, calling Nova names etc because she had magic. Not only did she have to face being discriminated against by the core members she also was discriminated against by her own sister, not once but twice in this book.
The core family trainees were also a downfall for me, other than wanting pure blood (yuck) there was no reason to hate Nova and call her derogatory names.
The ending she’s given up due to her families death so she becomes compliant, but still throws hissy fits because she can’t find the killer of her family.
Make sure to read the TW if you pick this book up, there’s a lot of pure blood propaganda, discrimination, SA at the ending (with the MMC), coercion of sex/toxic relationship (with the FMC).
Thank you Twisted Tales pr for the arc
This was advertised as an academic setting with trials and honestly that felt like a side trope to this book. The trials were pretty basic and the academy setting was mostly there to explain people being in dorms/barracks.
Unfortunately this book had too many immature characters for me. The FMC and her sister are supposedly in their 50’s but literally mock each other like 8 year olds would.
“ “yes im so eager to meet them”
“I’m so excited to meet them” I mocked in a particularly whiny tone”
Like…you’re grown ass adults.
Nova is supposed to be strong and smart and cunning but acts like a shell of a person the majority of the time at the academy.
Her family was unbelievable as well, Nova wanted them to live as long as her but they wanted to die at a normal age. I see both sides of this but her sister was the biggest asshole about it, calling Nova names etc because she had magic. Not only did she have to face being discriminated against by the core members she also was discriminated against by her own sister, not once but twice in this book.
The core family trainees were also a downfall for me, other than wanting pure blood (yuck) there was no reason to hate Nova and call her derogatory names.
The ending she’s given up due to her families death so she becomes compliant, but still throws hissy fits because she can’t find the killer of her family.
Make sure to read the TW if you pick this book up, there’s a lot of pure blood propaganda, discrimination, SA at the ending (with the MMC), coercion of sex/toxic relationship (with the FMC).
Thank you Twisted Tales pr for the arc
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2025
First, I want to say thank you for the ARC, and THIS BOOK WAS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!!
This is the type of book that reels you and gets you hooked. where you are up to 2am because you can't put it down.
The magic system is unique, I loved how the powers are given to the people by the stars, and they just want chaos.
This is a true enemies to lovers and a very, very slow burn. I mean, they are still kind of enemies at the end.
the tension between them is so thick im not sure you could cut it off with the knife, and the plot twist at the end hand my jaw on the floor!!!!
if you love a dark romantasy book in an academy setting, have and have nots, rich v poor, strong fmc, magic, and a plot twist you won't see coming, this is for you!
I loved the academy setting, the world building, and our baddass strong fmc!
what a cliffhanger!!! it left me on the edge of my seat, I kept turning the pages, hoping for a little piece of what's next!
This did take a little bit for me to get into, but once I did, i was strapped in and couldn't put it down.
This is the type of book that reels you and gets you hooked. where you are up to 2am because you can't put it down.
The magic system is unique, I loved how the powers are given to the people by the stars, and they just want chaos.
This is a true enemies to lovers and a very, very slow burn. I mean, they are still kind of enemies at the end.
the tension between them is so thick im not sure you could cut it off with the knife, and the plot twist at the end hand my jaw on the floor!!!!
if you love a dark romantasy book in an academy setting, have and have nots, rich v poor, strong fmc, magic, and a plot twist you won't see coming, this is for you!
I loved the academy setting, the world building, and our baddass strong fmc!
what a cliffhanger!!! it left me on the edge of my seat, I kept turning the pages, hoping for a little piece of what's next!
This did take a little bit for me to get into, but once I did, i was strapped in and couldn't put it down.
August 19, 2025
Are you kidding me with that ending?! What the heck?! I will describe the ending as a Rebecca Yarrows styled cliffhanger. An ending that leaves you with more question than answers. Reading this will make you want the next book immediately.
From start to finish Above by Brea Lamb was intriguing. The author had a unique magic system that differed from what typical in the romantasy genre. The academia setting was more of a military boot camp so it was a nice switch up. I thought it was cool the characters in this book worshiped the stars instead of fictional gods.
If I could compare this book to other I have read I would say this is a mash up of One Dark Window, Zodiac Academy, Silver Elite & Leave Me Behind.
All together I am rating this book 4.5 stars. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
From start to finish Above by Brea Lamb was intriguing. The author had a unique magic system that differed from what typical in the romantasy genre. The academia setting was more of a military boot camp so it was a nice switch up. I thought it was cool the characters in this book worshiped the stars instead of fictional gods.
If I could compare this book to other I have read I would say this is a mash up of One Dark Window, Zodiac Academy, Silver Elite & Leave Me Behind.
All together I am rating this book 4.5 stars. I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2025
•I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book.•
Wow. This book incited so many strong emotions and touched on topics that are unfortunately prevalent today. It is not often that a book will take me on an emotional journey along side the characters but I found myself struggling to read through the blur of tears many times.
Above follows our FMC Nova who was the only member of her family to be blessed with magic by the stars. This has marked her as other or what the purists call a mistake. Despite the hate she has to be anything like the families who are guaranteed to be magically blessed, her family is her greatest motivator and to prolong their life to match hers is her one goal as she enters the academy to become an elite. There she faces prejudice and attempts on her life all while she battles her morality in the face of her growing power.
It took a couple of chapters for this story to grip me but once it did I couldn’t escape. This is the first book I’ve read from Brea Lamb and I cannot wait for book 2 and to dive into her other works.
Wow. This book incited so many strong emotions and touched on topics that are unfortunately prevalent today. It is not often that a book will take me on an emotional journey along side the characters but I found myself struggling to read through the blur of tears many times.
Above follows our FMC Nova who was the only member of her family to be blessed with magic by the stars. This has marked her as other or what the purists call a mistake. Despite the hate she has to be anything like the families who are guaranteed to be magically blessed, her family is her greatest motivator and to prolong their life to match hers is her one goal as she enters the academy to become an elite. There she faces prejudice and attempts on her life all while she battles her morality in the face of her growing power.
It took a couple of chapters for this story to grip me but once it did I couldn’t escape. This is the first book I’ve read from Brea Lamb and I cannot wait for book 2 and to dive into her other works.
August 8, 2025
Speechless. You know when a book starts off with “Leave it to a rich man to be an absolute disappointment.” that it’s going to be good but I was left with my jaw on the floor and itching for book two. I was an ARC reader for this book and I am so thankful to get my hands on this early. Hands down my favorite read of 2025!
August 24, 2025
✨ARC Review: Above by Brea Lamb✨
Dual POV | Book 1 in Darkness Reigns Series | 469 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️
Thank you to Twisted Tales PR and Brea for providing me with an advanced copy of Above. As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
"Some fear equality, not because they don't want to disrupt the perceived peace, but because they wish to maintain their own control."
TROPES
✔️ Dark, Morally Black World
✔️ Academy Setting
✔️ Villain Gets the Girl
✔️ Explores themes of Brainwashing, Propaganda, and Indoctrination
✔️ Stars Rule instead of Gods
✔️ Betrayal
✔️ Feminine Rage
✔️ Mental Health Rep
✔️ Slow Burn with Spice
Holy shit what the hell was that?! I had no idea what to expect from this book but holy hells it did not disappoint!! This book started off so strong, the opening line being absolute perfection: "Leave it to a rich man to be an absolute disappointment."
We start this world off with Nova, the only one in her family that was gifted with magic by the stars. Being the only shaytan in a family of eadi, Nova is treated like an outcast in the eadi world and the shaytan world; despised and feared by the eadi and found undeserving and a mistake by the shaytan.
Being shaytan means she will outlive her eadi(non magic) family and will do anything within her power to ensure she does not lose them. Including going against everything she believes in and participating in a ritual and attending an academy where she needs to fight to stay alive in order to become an Elite and save her family. Arriving at the academy, Nova is put through the ringer. She and the other shaytan are immediately put through a ritual to see if the stars deem them worthy of progressing and from there it becomes a trail of nightmares and fighting to stay alive. Literally.
This book is a true enemies to lovers. I mean these two HATE each other. You're not going to find an "insta-love" or "touch her and die" vibes from our MMC. Azazel is actively trying to kill her. It has become his mission and something he truly believes he has to do for the greater good of the shaytan. While Nova has no interest in making friends at the academy - why would she, they all despise who and what she is - there are some shaytan at the academy who don't seem to loathe her existence as much as the rest. Talon, the son of one of the core families, has taken an interest in Nova and is determined to help her stay alive and graduate from the academy. With the help, can Nova succeed at becoming one of the Elite and save her family, will she die trying.. or will Az kill her before she can?
This book was so good it left me just staring off into space wondering what the hell just happened. The emotionally devastating plot twists and cliffhanger ending had me questioning everything and needed Book 2 immediately!! Above will have you pissed off, happy and in tears all in a single act. Brea has single handedly climbed up my list and Above has become my favorite fantasy of the year. This entire book is dark, twisted and tragic (in the best way) and I absolutely recommend reading the trigger warnings as this book covers some incredibly heavy topics and may not be for all readers.
Dual POV | Book 1 in Darkness Reigns Series | 469 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️
Thank you to Twisted Tales PR and Brea for providing me with an advanced copy of Above. As always, my opinions are my own. ☺️
"Some fear equality, not because they don't want to disrupt the perceived peace, but because they wish to maintain their own control."
TROPES
✔️ Dark, Morally Black World
✔️ Academy Setting
✔️ Villain Gets the Girl
✔️ Explores themes of Brainwashing, Propaganda, and Indoctrination
✔️ Stars Rule instead of Gods
✔️ Betrayal
✔️ Feminine Rage
✔️ Mental Health Rep
✔️ Slow Burn with Spice
Holy shit what the hell was that?! I had no idea what to expect from this book but holy hells it did not disappoint!! This book started off so strong, the opening line being absolute perfection: "Leave it to a rich man to be an absolute disappointment."
We start this world off with Nova, the only one in her family that was gifted with magic by the stars. Being the only shaytan in a family of eadi, Nova is treated like an outcast in the eadi world and the shaytan world; despised and feared by the eadi and found undeserving and a mistake by the shaytan.
Being shaytan means she will outlive her eadi(non magic) family and will do anything within her power to ensure she does not lose them. Including going against everything she believes in and participating in a ritual and attending an academy where she needs to fight to stay alive in order to become an Elite and save her family. Arriving at the academy, Nova is put through the ringer. She and the other shaytan are immediately put through a ritual to see if the stars deem them worthy of progressing and from there it becomes a trail of nightmares and fighting to stay alive. Literally.
This book is a true enemies to lovers. I mean these two HATE each other. You're not going to find an "insta-love" or "touch her and die" vibes from our MMC. Azazel is actively trying to kill her. It has become his mission and something he truly believes he has to do for the greater good of the shaytan. While Nova has no interest in making friends at the academy - why would she, they all despise who and what she is - there are some shaytan at the academy who don't seem to loathe her existence as much as the rest. Talon, the son of one of the core families, has taken an interest in Nova and is determined to help her stay alive and graduate from the academy. With the help, can Nova succeed at becoming one of the Elite and save her family, will she die trying.. or will Az kill her before she can?
This book was so good it left me just staring off into space wondering what the hell just happened. The emotionally devastating plot twists and cliffhanger ending had me questioning everything and needed Book 2 immediately!! Above will have you pissed off, happy and in tears all in a single act. Brea has single handedly climbed up my list and Above has become my favorite fantasy of the year. This entire book is dark, twisted and tragic (in the best way) and I absolutely recommend reading the trigger warnings as this book covers some incredibly heavy topics and may not be for all readers.
August 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
First off, I would love to thank the organizers and author, @authorbrealamb, for giving me the opportunity to read Above as MY VERY FIRST ARC! Secondly, this review is completely of my own accord.
‼️SPOILERS‼️
With that being said, I loooved this story! I have been in a reading slump for the past few months eager for a story that made me actually excited to read it, and finally this book delivered! Brea’s ability to capture Nova as both the oppressed and the oppressor was so well done, I truly felt Nova’s feelings of unbelonging in all aspects of her life. This, paired with the weight she felt in regard to her family’s safety and wellbeing as well as her strong moral compass, made me quickly fall in love with our FMC. And let us not forget her smart mouth and sharp wit 😏 If there is anything I am feral for in a story 10/10 times, it is an unapologetic bad bitch as the FMC, and Nova’s bad bitch vibes were vibing! Also, the tension between Az and Nova? Yes please, may I have another. So many times in romantasy, the enemies to lovers transition feels too quick and forced. However, I can see and I can feel the connection growing between Az and Nova and can’t wait for what the second book will bring for them! AND TALON?! YOU SICK SON OF A BITCH!! I can’t remember the last time I wanted to fist fight a character so bad. I also cannot wait to see what happens there!
Overall, I loved this story and the characters. They are unique, complex, and so interesting. I loved what we got from book one and CANNOT wait to see what book two brings!
🌶️
First off, I would love to thank the organizers and author, @authorbrealamb, for giving me the opportunity to read Above as MY VERY FIRST ARC! Secondly, this review is completely of my own accord.
‼️SPOILERS‼️
With that being said, I loooved this story! I have been in a reading slump for the past few months eager for a story that made me actually excited to read it, and finally this book delivered! Brea’s ability to capture Nova as both the oppressed and the oppressor was so well done, I truly felt Nova’s feelings of unbelonging in all aspects of her life. This, paired with the weight she felt in regard to her family’s safety and wellbeing as well as her strong moral compass, made me quickly fall in love with our FMC. And let us not forget her smart mouth and sharp wit 😏 If there is anything I am feral for in a story 10/10 times, it is an unapologetic bad bitch as the FMC, and Nova’s bad bitch vibes were vibing! Also, the tension between Az and Nova? Yes please, may I have another. So many times in romantasy, the enemies to lovers transition feels too quick and forced. However, I can see and I can feel the connection growing between Az and Nova and can’t wait for what the second book will bring for them! AND TALON?! YOU SICK SON OF A BITCH!! I can’t remember the last time I wanted to fist fight a character so bad. I also cannot wait to see what happens there!
Overall, I loved this story and the characters. They are unique, complex, and so interesting. I loved what we got from book one and CANNOT wait to see what book two brings!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2025
Thank you to the author, Brea Lamb, for letting me read Above 💫
ARC REVIEW
“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘛𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥.”
Honestly, this book wasn’t what I expected from a fantasy novel at all—but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. It had such a unique mix of elements—elites, world-building, tension, and emotion—and it definitely surprised me in the best way 🤭
Okay, I’ll be honest: this book starts really slow. Like…........ painfully slow 😭 Initially I thought this book wasn’t for me. But oh my god, once I hit the 50% mark, things really started happening—and I ended up finishing the rest in a single day. If you’re reading this book, trust the process. You won’t regret it 🫠
The story follows Nova Tershetta, a shaytan born of eadi parents (don’t worry, you’ll get used to the terms as you go). She lies, steals, and fights her way through life just to keep her family safe. She’s stubborn, unapologetic, and yet so full of love for the people she cares about. She doesn’t take shit from anyone—and honestly, I loved that about her ❤️🔥
And then there’s Azazel Altair—our tortured antihero (because “villain” doesn’t quite fit him). He’s part of one of the core families, clearly prejudiced against people like Nova, and yet… something shifts between them. It’s subtle, but it’s there. Their enemies-to-lovers energy was so good 🔥 (Like they legit wanted to off each other!!!) I felt bad for him sometimes—but also wanted to slap some sense into him. Very contradictory. I know, I know.
Nova’s family though—they were everything. Imperfect, yes, but full of love and loyalty. My favorite has to be Octavia, her mother—such a sweetheart and honestly goals when it comes to love and partnership 💕 Celeste was amazing too—headstrong, cunning, and sharp as ever. And Death? That little furball stole all limelight.
I adored Caleb’s friendship with Nova—he’s level-headed, calm, and his matchmaking moments with Nova and Azazel had me smiling like an idiot 💞 I do feel bad for Dove, though. And I’m hoping we get to see more of Priya and Quinn in the next book.
As for General Altair and Captain Zade… yeah, my hatred for them is very real 😤 They got on my nerves every single time. And those stars? Definitely not helping. But I can already tell they’re going to play a major role in the upcoming war 👀
And finally—Nova and Azazel. I need more of them. Their banter was hilarious, their chemistry electric, and I just know it’s going to be off the charts once they finally get their act together 🖤
ARC REVIEW
“𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘛𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘢. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘯𝘥.”
Honestly, this book wasn’t what I expected from a fantasy novel at all—but I’m so glad I gave it a chance. It had such a unique mix of elements—elites, world-building, tension, and emotion—and it definitely surprised me in the best way 🤭
Okay, I’ll be honest: this book starts really slow. Like…........ painfully slow 😭 Initially I thought this book wasn’t for me. But oh my god, once I hit the 50% mark, things really started happening—and I ended up finishing the rest in a single day. If you’re reading this book, trust the process. You won’t regret it 🫠
The story follows Nova Tershetta, a shaytan born of eadi parents (don’t worry, you’ll get used to the terms as you go). She lies, steals, and fights her way through life just to keep her family safe. She’s stubborn, unapologetic, and yet so full of love for the people she cares about. She doesn’t take shit from anyone—and honestly, I loved that about her ❤️🔥
And then there’s Azazel Altair—our tortured antihero (because “villain” doesn’t quite fit him). He’s part of one of the core families, clearly prejudiced against people like Nova, and yet… something shifts between them. It’s subtle, but it’s there. Their enemies-to-lovers energy was so good 🔥 (Like they legit wanted to off each other!!!) I felt bad for him sometimes—but also wanted to slap some sense into him. Very contradictory. I know, I know.
Nova’s family though—they were everything. Imperfect, yes, but full of love and loyalty. My favorite has to be Octavia, her mother—such a sweetheart and honestly goals when it comes to love and partnership 💕 Celeste was amazing too—headstrong, cunning, and sharp as ever. And Death? That little furball stole all limelight.
I adored Caleb’s friendship with Nova—he’s level-headed, calm, and his matchmaking moments with Nova and Azazel had me smiling like an idiot 💞 I do feel bad for Dove, though. And I’m hoping we get to see more of Priya and Quinn in the next book.
As for General Altair and Captain Zade… yeah, my hatred for them is very real 😤 They got on my nerves every single time. And those stars? Definitely not helping. But I can already tell they’re going to play a major role in the upcoming war 👀
And finally—Nova and Azazel. I need more of them. Their banter was hilarious, their chemistry electric, and I just know it’s going to be off the charts once they finally get their act together 🖤
August 22, 2025
“There is no might like that of the stars who burn above. And, oh. how bright you shine when you burn below.”
What an epic tale of betrayal, power, and heart. I literally could not put this book down. 😫😭 Every layer of worldbuilding, every twist of political intrigue, those trials?! Every drop of emotion poured into this book went straight to my soul. 🥺
While this may be a story, it holds up a mirror to the real world. Exposing the danger of single minded perspectives, and the power of empathy. It didn’t just tell a story, it taught something. A reminder that understanding is essential, and ignorance of another’s experience can be deeply harmful.
Nova is truly an amazing fmc to read about. Her perseverance & fortitude, when all odds were stacked against her, continued to prove how resilient she is, how fighting for yourself, for your loved ones, does matter. To never give up.
I truly felt for some of the Cores as well. Ruthless, heartless, and merciless, they were raised in a warped worldview that had been established for centuries. A complexity of people who are just products of the environment they were thrown into.
This was deeper than written words on a page, it was thought provoking and emotional. Nothing is so white and black. The gasp I gusped at that ending?? phew. brea.. you are a genius. I truly cannot WAIT to see how this is going to unfold. Take me back to Dajahim as quickly as possible 😫
What an epic tale of betrayal, power, and heart. I literally could not put this book down. 😫😭 Every layer of worldbuilding, every twist of political intrigue, those trials?! Every drop of emotion poured into this book went straight to my soul. 🥺
While this may be a story, it holds up a mirror to the real world. Exposing the danger of single minded perspectives, and the power of empathy. It didn’t just tell a story, it taught something. A reminder that understanding is essential, and ignorance of another’s experience can be deeply harmful.
Nova is truly an amazing fmc to read about. Her perseverance & fortitude, when all odds were stacked against her, continued to prove how resilient she is, how fighting for yourself, for your loved ones, does matter. To never give up.
I truly felt for some of the Cores as well. Ruthless, heartless, and merciless, they were raised in a warped worldview that had been established for centuries. A complexity of people who are just products of the environment they were thrown into.
This was deeper than written words on a page, it was thought provoking and emotional. Nothing is so white and black. The gasp I gusped at that ending?? phew. brea.. you are a genius. I truly cannot WAIT to see how this is going to unfold. Take me back to Dajahim as quickly as possible 😫
August 31, 2025
“𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝘀? 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝗹𝗹? 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗹?” “𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝘁?”
“𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝘄𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄.”
“𝗪𝗲’𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗰𝘆, ”
“𝗕𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹. 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘀.”
—How do I even put into words the love I have for this book.
It’s been a while since I picked up a good fantasy and Above delivered exceptionally, beautifully and BRUTALLY!!
I was rendered speechless. Amazed. Shocked and in awe. Literally needing a moment to collect my jaw off the floor.
This is one of my highly anticipated reads this year and it proved its worth through every twist and conniving turn.
Characters with such torturous upbringings, moulding them to make the decisions they had. World building with perfect atmospheric detail. Brutal academy setting. Classists with segregation and political warfare in honour of ‘the greater’.
One strong willed and unique FMC, our girl Nova. Along side her, a lover, a villain and the hope for something better.
Don’t trust anyone.
Pass the academy.
Hold your family close.
If you need me, I’ll be holding my breath in the corner until the next book is out.
➵ Badass FMC
➵ True enemies
➵ Dark fantasy/dystopian
➵ Female RAGE
➵ Divine, slow TENSION
[ ✩ It deserves all the stars. ]
‘𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫.’
🖤🖤🖤
“𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘆 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘃𝗲, 𝘄𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄.”
“𝗪𝗲’𝗹𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗰𝘆, ”
“𝗕𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗹. 𝗦𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘁𝘁𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗼𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗼𝘂𝘀.”
—How do I even put into words the love I have for this book.
It’s been a while since I picked up a good fantasy and Above delivered exceptionally, beautifully and BRUTALLY!!
I was rendered speechless. Amazed. Shocked and in awe. Literally needing a moment to collect my jaw off the floor.
This is one of my highly anticipated reads this year and it proved its worth through every twist and conniving turn.
Characters with such torturous upbringings, moulding them to make the decisions they had. World building with perfect atmospheric detail. Brutal academy setting. Classists with segregation and political warfare in honour of ‘the greater’.
One strong willed and unique FMC, our girl Nova. Along side her, a lover, a villain and the hope for something better.
Don’t trust anyone.
Pass the academy.
Hold your family close.
If you need me, I’ll be holding my breath in the corner until the next book is out.
➵ Badass FMC
➵ True enemies
➵ Dark fantasy/dystopian
➵ Female RAGE
➵ Divine, slow TENSION
[ ✩ It deserves all the stars. ]
‘𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐈 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫.’
🖤🖤🖤
January 8, 2026
Wow. Just… wow. 🤯 I knew I was going to like this book, but I didn’t expect to love it the way I did. I fell headfirst into the magic and the world right away, it’s so unique and beautifully done. And yes, this is a true enemies-to-lovers, so buckle up because the ride is worth it 👏🏽👏🏽
Nova, our FMC, completely stole my heart from the start. I was rooting for her every single step of the way. She’s constantly trying to prove to herself and everyone else that she’s worthy of her magic, that she isn’t some cosmic mistake. In her pursuit she ends up paying a devastating price and loses the people who matter most. The question becomes: can the stars rewrite her fate, or will she have to be strong enough to ask for help from the most unexpected places?
Az is the ultimate purist. He’s convinced he is the one destined for greatness and believes Nova doesn’t deserve her magic or her place. But fate has other plans. She challenges everything he believes, forces him to question himself in ways that rattle him to his core, even as he clings to his mission. Failure isn’t an option… or is it?
This is a slow burn 🔥 and it is so worth it. The tension, the hatred, the angst—absolute chef’s kiss 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽. There are twists, turns, betrayal, loss, and pending redemption, all with serious consequences. And fair warning… this ends on a cliffhanger ‼️‼️
❤️Magic
❤️Enemies to lovers
❤️ Magic Academy
❤️ Spice 🌶️.5
Nova, our FMC, completely stole my heart from the start. I was rooting for her every single step of the way. She’s constantly trying to prove to herself and everyone else that she’s worthy of her magic, that she isn’t some cosmic mistake. In her pursuit she ends up paying a devastating price and loses the people who matter most. The question becomes: can the stars rewrite her fate, or will she have to be strong enough to ask for help from the most unexpected places?
Az is the ultimate purist. He’s convinced he is the one destined for greatness and believes Nova doesn’t deserve her magic or her place. But fate has other plans. She challenges everything he believes, forces him to question himself in ways that rattle him to his core, even as he clings to his mission. Failure isn’t an option… or is it?
This is a slow burn 🔥 and it is so worth it. The tension, the hatred, the angst—absolute chef’s kiss 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽. There are twists, turns, betrayal, loss, and pending redemption, all with serious consequences. And fair warning… this ends on a cliffhanger ‼️‼️
❤️Magic
❤️Enemies to lovers
❤️ Magic Academy
❤️ Spice 🌶️.5
August 18, 2025
It's absolutely my favorite read of the year!!!! This is a must-read!
Brea Lamb did her thang with this story 👌🏽 In a world where we worship The Stars not gods and The Stars demand their Entertainment ✨️ 🙌 everyone must wait until their 25th birthday to even be awarded the opportunity to pray to The Stars for the magic they can give and take away!
We ended up in an academy setting, but a bit different, and I loved it!
I feel like it was a true enemies to lovers! Even though we don't actually see them fall in love, they really effin hate each other!
I related to Nova immediately & she never relented the entire book!
Supporting characters were deep and made me want to know about them!
The writing style felt very smooth, eloquent, and read in a way that added to not being able to put this down!
I am now obsessed with The Stars as well ✨️ 😍 I NEED book 2 NOW!!
I definitely recommend this book & and I really hope you all pick it up August 31st on release day!
I was gifted this read by Twisted Tales Pr. and I am over the moon that I did! I feel like I've found a new favorite author!
Brea Lamb did her thang with this story 👌🏽 In a world where we worship The Stars not gods and The Stars demand their Entertainment ✨️ 🙌 everyone must wait until their 25th birthday to even be awarded the opportunity to pray to The Stars for the magic they can give and take away!
We ended up in an academy setting, but a bit different, and I loved it!
I feel like it was a true enemies to lovers! Even though we don't actually see them fall in love, they really effin hate each other!
I related to Nova immediately & she never relented the entire book!
Supporting characters were deep and made me want to know about them!
The writing style felt very smooth, eloquent, and read in a way that added to not being able to put this down!
I am now obsessed with The Stars as well ✨️ 😍 I NEED book 2 NOW!!
I definitely recommend this book & and I really hope you all pick it up August 31st on release day!
I was gifted this read by Twisted Tales Pr. and I am over the moon that I did! I feel like I've found a new favorite author!
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