What do you think?
Rate this book
The Broken Sword Duology #1
The Shadow Weaver
Not yet published
Expected 28 Oct 25Forged from iron and shadow, Caris Ironside is one of the an outcast hiding a deadly secret.
Caris is a skilled blacksmith and the only woman known to craft legendary swords. The novelty of her profession provides much-needed cover as she seeks vengeance for her mother's murder. Caris's search for the killer leads her to enter a brutal tournament disguised as a man, where she is quickly swept into the world of knights and courtiers.
When Caris's perilous mission takes her to Capita, a city ruled by The Order of Men, she must tread carefully. The Order is ruthlessly determined to eradicate the Cursed and will stop at nothing to see her fall.
As danger closes in, Caris finds herself relying on two unlikely a fellow blacksmith haunted by his past, and a brooding captain who saved her life as a child. But their loyalty may not be enough when the darkness inside her begins to surface.
The Shadow Weaver is an epic romantic fantasy filled with forbidden power, deadly secrets and heart-pounding action.
Caris is a skilled blacksmith and the only woman known to craft legendary swords. The novelty of her profession provides much-needed cover as she seeks vengeance for her mother's murder. Caris's search for the killer leads her to enter a brutal tournament disguised as a man, where she is quickly swept into the world of knights and courtiers.
When Caris's perilous mission takes her to Capita, a city ruled by The Order of Men, she must tread carefully. The Order is ruthlessly determined to eradicate the Cursed and will stop at nothing to see her fall.
As danger closes in, Caris finds herself relying on two unlikely a fellow blacksmith haunted by his past, and a brooding captain who saved her life as a child. But their loyalty may not be enough when the darkness inside her begins to surface.
The Shadow Weaver is an epic romantic fantasy filled with forbidden power, deadly secrets and heart-pounding action.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 28, 2025
277 people want to read
About the author
Ivy Cliffwater
1 book18 followersIvy is a romantasy author based in Auckland, New Zealand. Combining her love for romance and fantasy, Ivy writes captivating stories that transport readers to hidden lands brimming with magic and passion. When she’s not weaving tales, Ivy can often be found at the local beach, taking in the coastal beauty with her husband and their well-loved border collie, Poppy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 14, 2025
I had so much fun reading this debut dark fantasy novel from Ivy Cliffwater. Full of action and epic battles that had me clenching my kindle. This follows Caris, our FMC, who is a skilled blacksmith and the only woman known to craft legendary swords. However, secretly she is plotting revenge for her mother's murder which leads her into a tournament disguised as a man. Along this journey she runs into two men from her past, but she must be careful because in this kingdom the Cursed, women with magic, are hunted.
What to Expect
⚔️Medieval Setting
⚔️Captain of the Guard
⚔️Female Blacksmith
⚔️Found Family
⚔️Forbidden Magic
⚔️Prophecies
⚔️Love Triangle
⚔️Epic Battles
Loved the characters, the deadly secrets, the fascinating magic system, the world-building and the heart-pounding action. The plot was addictive and how could it not be with all these amazing tropes. Yes, this is a debut novel so like all debut novels there are some things that can be more developed and small aspects that can be worked out. However, overall I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the next book in the duology.
Pre-read review: An epic romantic fantasy filled with forbidden power and deadly secrets...sign me up please!
What to Expect
⚔️Medieval Setting
⚔️Captain of the Guard
⚔️Female Blacksmith
⚔️Found Family
⚔️Forbidden Magic
⚔️Prophecies
⚔️Love Triangle
⚔️Epic Battles
Loved the characters, the deadly secrets, the fascinating magic system, the world-building and the heart-pounding action. The plot was addictive and how could it not be with all these amazing tropes. Yes, this is a debut novel so like all debut novels there are some things that can be more developed and small aspects that can be worked out. However, overall I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to read the next book in the duology.
Pre-read review: An epic romantic fantasy filled with forbidden power and deadly secrets...sign me up please!
September 4, 2025
In my heart, this is a 2.5 but I’ve rounded it up to 3 stars. I did enjoy this book to a point! I enjoyed the plot and kept reading to find out what happened to our characters! The romance was definitely pulling its weight, and I loved our adorable blacksmith, Cillian. (Although I think I always prefer the cold hearted love interest who has a soft spot for the main lead 🤭 and Torgrin definitely delivered in that area.) Caris was a decent character with that traumatic past that is required of all characters in the fantasy genre and future trauma to encounter for more delightful character development!
On the other hand, I don’t think the writing style in this book suited me. I think it was a bit simple and the pacing of the story suffered because of it at some points. It also felt like there was a lot that the author was wanting to do in this world in a short period of time, and by this, I mean the tropes that were included almost like someone had been ticking of their checklist as they were writing. It was a bit overwhelming for me and took me out of the story a little. I have some other critiques but they are mostly personal preference.
Overall, this book wasn’t really for me although I did enjoy parts of it. But!! I know there is a large audience that will love this book and I hope it finds them.
Go NZ authors!! Congratulations Ivy on your debut!!
On the other hand, I don’t think the writing style in this book suited me. I think it was a bit simple and the pacing of the story suffered because of it at some points. It also felt like there was a lot that the author was wanting to do in this world in a short period of time, and by this, I mean the tropes that were included almost like someone had been ticking of their checklist as they were writing. It was a bit overwhelming for me and took me out of the story a little. I have some other critiques but they are mostly personal preference.
Overall, this book wasn’t really for me although I did enjoy parts of it. But!! I know there is a large audience that will love this book and I hope it finds them.
Go NZ authors!! Congratulations Ivy on your debut!!
September 27, 2025
3.5 stars.
The writing style is very easy to read with simple words and simple sentence structure. Something I appreciated because I have had a stresssssful August and didn't want something that made me have to think too hard. We follow Caris' POV, experiencing her thoughts and actions directly.
While enjoyable, I did feel like there needed a bit more in terms of development; deeper, more effective diving to bring a stronger connection to the world and characters. I wasn't as invested as I wanted to be in a Fantasy and felt because of this, the relationships didn't bring the suspense or tingly feelings. Her journey wasnt as exciting as it couldve been and this felt the same for the tension and all her relationships.
The pacing and simplistic tone made this a bingeable read. I enjoyed the setting and the characters were recognisable; your funny labradork guy, the older, caring boss, the young jealous other woman, your 'emotionless' dimpled man who's brooding nature is an act when deep down he wants you. A little cliche at times but still good.
Overall the story is great, just the journey and all the in betweens lacked a little for me in terms of depth, structure and connection - BUT I will be getting a physical copy on release and think Ivy done a great job for her debut. Curious to see what happens next :)
The writing style is very easy to read with simple words and simple sentence structure. Something I appreciated because I have had a stresssssful August and didn't want something that made me have to think too hard. We follow Caris' POV, experiencing her thoughts and actions directly.
While enjoyable, I did feel like there needed a bit more in terms of development; deeper, more effective diving to bring a stronger connection to the world and characters. I wasn't as invested as I wanted to be in a Fantasy and felt because of this, the relationships didn't bring the suspense or tingly feelings. Her journey wasnt as exciting as it couldve been and this felt the same for the tension and all her relationships.
The pacing and simplistic tone made this a bingeable read. I enjoyed the setting and the characters were recognisable; your funny labradork guy, the older, caring boss, the young jealous other woman, your 'emotionless' dimpled man who's brooding nature is an act when deep down he wants you. A little cliche at times but still good.
Overall the story is great, just the journey and all the in betweens lacked a little for me in terms of depth, structure and connection - BUT I will be getting a physical copy on release and think Ivy done a great job for her debut. Curious to see what happens next :)
July 17, 2025
Thank you for allowing me this ARC read.
' 𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯. 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘴. '
I was first lucky enough to experience this book in Beta format. at the time I knew it had potential. after reading the finished piece... wow. Ivy has not disappointed.
I intend to keep this review spoiler free, so it will be short.
The world we find ourselves in within The Shadow Weaver is complex, without feeling overwhelming. Cliffwater has created a unique magic system, but also a societal system that echoes a lot of the issues we face today.
The characters we come to love are individualized, and even the seemingly minor ones add value to the plot in ways you dont quite anticipate.
The level of detail put into things, down to how to forge a sword that bends before it breaks, makes me curious to see the authors' research folders - because they must be INTENSE.
This story was heartbreaking, hopeful, tense, amusing, and everything in between.
' 𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘺. 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯. 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘶𝘴. '
I was first lucky enough to experience this book in Beta format. at the time I knew it had potential. after reading the finished piece... wow. Ivy has not disappointed.
I intend to keep this review spoiler free, so it will be short.
The world we find ourselves in within The Shadow Weaver is complex, without feeling overwhelming. Cliffwater has created a unique magic system, but also a societal system that echoes a lot of the issues we face today.
The characters we come to love are individualized, and even the seemingly minor ones add value to the plot in ways you dont quite anticipate.
The level of detail put into things, down to how to forge a sword that bends before it breaks, makes me curious to see the authors' research folders - because they must be INTENSE.
This story was heartbreaking, hopeful, tense, amusing, and everything in between.
September 21, 2025
A thrilling dark fantasy debut from kiwi author Ivy Cliffwater, The Shadow Weaver is filled with action, forbidden magic, found family, a quest for revenge, and full-on rage against the patriarchy.
Caris is a skilled blacksmith (finally a heroine who isn’t a petite healer or princess 🙌) on a mission to avenge her mother’s murder. She’s six feet tall, strong, confident, and capable, yet layered with naivety that makes her feel real. Disguised in men’s armour, she enters a deadly tournament and crosses paths with two men from her past, all while navigating a kingdom where women with magic, the Cursed, are hunted.
The writing is approachable and easy to follow while still being immersive, making this perfect for readers new to fantasy or those who prefer lighter world-building. The magic system is only hinted at in this book, but it shows so much promise that I can’t wait to see it explored more in the next book. 👀 And every single action scene is strong, fast-paced, and gripping, keeping you on the edge of your seat!
If you love a good love triangle, this book delivers. Caris finds herself torn between the kind and gentle blacksmith who offers her refuge and the reserved, broody Captain of the guard from her past. For anyone asking, I’m team Torgrin! I definitely have a weakness for the strong, silent type with secrets (and I loved getting a glimpse into Tor’s inner thoughts via his journal entries).
Personally, I would have liked a little more build-up in the relationships between characters. That’s just my personal taste though, and I know plenty of readers will enjoy the faster pace and instant chemistry. I wanted to linger a little longer with those early interactions and watch them deepen.
This book is an emotional roller coaster, weaving together yearning romance, nail-biting action, villains you viscerally hate, and gut-punching moments of grief. Shout out to the found family and side characters that shine (Atlas is a personal favourite)!
And can we talk about that ending? 🤯 Absolutely brutal. I need book two asap. 🙏
What you can expect:
✨Tall, strong blacksmith FMC
✨Medieval tournament
✨Forbidden magic
✨Prophecy
✨Found family
✨Love triangle
✨Cinnamon Roll Blacksmith
✨Broody Captain
✨Rage against the patriarchy
⚠️ Please note there are dark themes throughout — be sure to check content warnings and read at your own discretion.
Thank you Ivy and Moa Press for the ARC!
Caris is a skilled blacksmith (finally a heroine who isn’t a petite healer or princess 🙌) on a mission to avenge her mother’s murder. She’s six feet tall, strong, confident, and capable, yet layered with naivety that makes her feel real. Disguised in men’s armour, she enters a deadly tournament and crosses paths with two men from her past, all while navigating a kingdom where women with magic, the Cursed, are hunted.
The writing is approachable and easy to follow while still being immersive, making this perfect for readers new to fantasy or those who prefer lighter world-building. The magic system is only hinted at in this book, but it shows so much promise that I can’t wait to see it explored more in the next book. 👀 And every single action scene is strong, fast-paced, and gripping, keeping you on the edge of your seat!
If you love a good love triangle, this book delivers. Caris finds herself torn between the kind and gentle blacksmith who offers her refuge and the reserved, broody Captain of the guard from her past. For anyone asking, I’m team Torgrin! I definitely have a weakness for the strong, silent type with secrets (and I loved getting a glimpse into Tor’s inner thoughts via his journal entries).
Personally, I would have liked a little more build-up in the relationships between characters. That’s just my personal taste though, and I know plenty of readers will enjoy the faster pace and instant chemistry. I wanted to linger a little longer with those early interactions and watch them deepen.
This book is an emotional roller coaster, weaving together yearning romance, nail-biting action, villains you viscerally hate, and gut-punching moments of grief. Shout out to the found family and side characters that shine (Atlas is a personal favourite)!
And can we talk about that ending? 🤯 Absolutely brutal. I need book two asap. 🙏
What you can expect:
✨Tall, strong blacksmith FMC
✨Medieval tournament
✨Forbidden magic
✨Prophecy
✨Found family
✨Love triangle
✨Cinnamon Roll Blacksmith
✨Broody Captain
✨Rage against the patriarchy
⚠️ Please note there are dark themes throughout — be sure to check content warnings and read at your own discretion.
Thank you Ivy and Moa Press for the ARC!
August 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Australia & NZ for giving me this opportunity to give my honest review of The Shadow Weaver!
This book was an experience like no other. It's taken me a while to write this review because I have so many thoughts and feelings about The Shadow Weaver, it's been so hard to put into words.
The Shadow Weaver is a dark (check your triggers), beautiful, enchanting tale about a tall 6ft female Blacksmith named Caris who is out for revenge, along her journey she meets another blacksmith, joins a tournament to become a Knight, meets people from her past (brooding, tall, dark, handsome Captain of the Guard) and new people along the way.
Found Family.
Love Triangle.
Forbidden Magic.
Revenge.
Prophecies.
Betrayal.
These are just some of the delicious things you will find in this book. The snippets that Ivy has been teasing on social media is just the BEGINNING! You are in for a treat as she is a master at weaving this tale.
'Impatient people annoyed me, but rude people made me angry. I considered dismounting and standing over the man, who was a head shorter than I, and telling him to be quiet.'
I have not read a book that has put me through such a roller coaster of emotions in such a very long time. I was giggling, laughing, screaming, crying, even cringing (in a good way) all through the book.
I loved every second, Ivy kept me on the edge of my seat trying to guess what could happen next.
I admit, I don't get surprised in books much anymore, but Ivy kept surprising me, I may have guessed one thing or two but then she would throw something else in the works that would pull the rug out from under me, which was really refreshing.
We definitely have our cliche moments, but I ate it up! Ivy's writing is just so enchanting and refreshing, you can tell the love, research and effort she put into the book, with all little details and facts spread throughout the pages, that weren't glossed over and gave the book the structure and detail that I love to see.
It is so very fast paced, at first, I was like 'oh wow, its moving very quickly from one scene to the next' but it never felt jarring, or out of place, it felt right for the book and the characters and while I would always want more of Ivy's writing, I didn't need more to understand the progress of the story.
Now let's talk about the Characters, oh boy they are all amazing! So very many who I loved, but I will name just the main few.
Cillian, precious golden retriever.
Atlas is like the mischievous and adorable younger brother.
Captain Tor.... the love I have for this man, his utter selfless devotion he has for Caris is next level, the way he lives and breathes for her made me want to jump into the book and slap her when she let her own insecurities get in her way again and again and doubted him.
'I had struggled with a simple hand touch a few months ago, and now I craved his embrace.'
'Survive, no matter what'
'Death couldn't stop me coming back to you.'
Caris herself was such a refreshing FMC, she was strong in ways and had confidence in her craft but yes, she was naive in other ways and had massive insecurities, but she is only human and coming into herself and exploring a world much bigger than her little village. I did want to smack her several times though.
Lastly... the Villains, the depth of hate I had for some of these characters was absolutely next level! Well done, Ivy.
The magic is so very intriguing, we don't learn much in book one, as this is very much in Caris's perspective, therefore, as she is still in the dark with the magic, so are we. We learn along with her as she gets little tidbits of information here and there that opens up her world and cannot wait to learn more.
I could honestly talk about this book forever, I don't think I can do it justice with this review, but I hope everyone picks it up and gives it a go for themselves!
Because, if this is what Ivy is giving us with book one, I can't wait to see what she gives us in book two, let alone her future works.
Think Knights Tale meets Quicksilver, its beautiful chaotic fun.
This book was an experience like no other. It's taken me a while to write this review because I have so many thoughts and feelings about The Shadow Weaver, it's been so hard to put into words.
The Shadow Weaver is a dark (check your triggers), beautiful, enchanting tale about a tall 6ft female Blacksmith named Caris who is out for revenge, along her journey she meets another blacksmith, joins a tournament to become a Knight, meets people from her past (brooding, tall, dark, handsome Captain of the Guard) and new people along the way.
Found Family.
Love Triangle.
Forbidden Magic.
Revenge.
Prophecies.
Betrayal.
These are just some of the delicious things you will find in this book. The snippets that Ivy has been teasing on social media is just the BEGINNING! You are in for a treat as she is a master at weaving this tale.
'Impatient people annoyed me, but rude people made me angry. I considered dismounting and standing over the man, who was a head shorter than I, and telling him to be quiet.'
I have not read a book that has put me through such a roller coaster of emotions in such a very long time. I was giggling, laughing, screaming, crying, even cringing (in a good way) all through the book.
I loved every second, Ivy kept me on the edge of my seat trying to guess what could happen next.
I admit, I don't get surprised in books much anymore, but Ivy kept surprising me, I may have guessed one thing or two but then she would throw something else in the works that would pull the rug out from under me, which was really refreshing.
We definitely have our cliche moments, but I ate it up! Ivy's writing is just so enchanting and refreshing, you can tell the love, research and effort she put into the book, with all little details and facts spread throughout the pages, that weren't glossed over and gave the book the structure and detail that I love to see.
It is so very fast paced, at first, I was like 'oh wow, its moving very quickly from one scene to the next' but it never felt jarring, or out of place, it felt right for the book and the characters and while I would always want more of Ivy's writing, I didn't need more to understand the progress of the story.
Now let's talk about the Characters, oh boy they are all amazing! So very many who I loved, but I will name just the main few.
Cillian, precious golden retriever.
Atlas is like the mischievous and adorable younger brother.
Captain Tor.... the love I have for this man, his utter selfless devotion he has for Caris is next level, the way he lives and breathes for her made me want to jump into the book and slap her when she let her own insecurities get in her way again and again and doubted him.
'I had struggled with a simple hand touch a few months ago, and now I craved his embrace.'
'Survive, no matter what'
'Death couldn't stop me coming back to you.'
Caris herself was such a refreshing FMC, she was strong in ways and had confidence in her craft but yes, she was naive in other ways and had massive insecurities, but she is only human and coming into herself and exploring a world much bigger than her little village. I did want to smack her several times though.
Lastly... the Villains, the depth of hate I had for some of these characters was absolutely next level! Well done, Ivy.
The magic is so very intriguing, we don't learn much in book one, as this is very much in Caris's perspective, therefore, as she is still in the dark with the magic, so are we. We learn along with her as she gets little tidbits of information here and there that opens up her world and cannot wait to learn more.
I could honestly talk about this book forever, I don't think I can do it justice with this review, but I hope everyone picks it up and gives it a go for themselves!
Because, if this is what Ivy is giving us with book one, I can't wait to see what she gives us in book two, let alone her future works.
Think Knights Tale meets Quicksilver, its beautiful chaotic fun.
October 11, 2025
I don’t even know where to start other than HOLY SHIT I LOVED THIS BOOK! 🖤✨
I wasn’t even in a fantasy mood when I started this, and yet that changed within just a few pages. The story was engaging and had me wholly captivated. The last 25% was a wild that had me biting my lip, clenching my fists, and tearing up a bit too.
I don’t even know how to succinctly write a review for this without spoiling it but everything was perfect. Our main protagonist, Caris, was such a fascinating woman. I loved that she was tall, that she didn’t cower, and she felt so deeply. She was unapologetically herself and, it might be odd to say, butI hope her character can inspire others and help them feel seen.
I’m not usually a fan of love triangles but I didn’t actually mind this one! Mostly because no one came off as nasty, there was no bitter jealousy, it was just sweet and spicy.
I’m so intrigued by the magic system in this world. You have all sorts of weavers hiding in plain sight and getting to see glimpses of them and what they could do throughout Cari’s ’ journey was exciting and dangerously beautiful.
All of the characters in TSW are so nuanced and not at all what I thought they’d be when I started reading. There are so many hidden depths and stories in all these characters, even the villains, and it’s really interesting to see.
As I said earlier, the last 25% was a wild freaking ride. I absolutely devoured it because I needed to know what came next but it left me gutted, heartbroken, and ready to ride at dawn. The feminine rage is REAL. I do need to have words with Ivy because HOW DARE SHE but in the mean time I shall let this book live rent free in my mind until book 2’s release.
Thank you so much to Moa Press, Haus of Fables PR, and Ivy Cliffwater for providing me with the arc in exchange for an honest review.
I wasn’t even in a fantasy mood when I started this, and yet that changed within just a few pages. The story was engaging and had me wholly captivated. The last 25% was a wild that had me biting my lip, clenching my fists, and tearing up a bit too.
I don’t even know how to succinctly write a review for this without spoiling it but everything was perfect. Our main protagonist, Caris, was such a fascinating woman. I loved that she was tall, that she didn’t cower, and she felt so deeply. She was unapologetically herself and, it might be odd to say, butI hope her character can inspire others and help them feel seen.
I’m not usually a fan of love triangles but I didn’t actually mind this one! Mostly because no one came off as nasty, there was no bitter jealousy, it was just sweet and spicy.
I’m so intrigued by the magic system in this world. You have all sorts of weavers hiding in plain sight and getting to see glimpses of them and what they could do throughout Cari’s ’ journey was exciting and dangerously beautiful.
All of the characters in TSW are so nuanced and not at all what I thought they’d be when I started reading. There are so many hidden depths and stories in all these characters, even the villains, and it’s really interesting to see.
As I said earlier, the last 25% was a wild freaking ride. I absolutely devoured it because I needed to know what came next but it left me gutted, heartbroken, and ready to ride at dawn. The feminine rage is REAL. I do need to have words with Ivy because HOW DARE SHE but in the mean time I shall let this book live rent free in my mind until book 2’s release.
Thank you so much to Moa Press, Haus of Fables PR, and Ivy Cliffwater for providing me with the arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2025
'Death couldn't stop me coming back to you,’
Umm... debut novel?! Excuse me?? Because this felt like the work of a seasoned pro. This was my first 5 ⭐️ read in ages.
This book has it all: forbidden power, deadly secrets, sizzling romance, and heart-pounding action. Caris Ironside - our fierce, blacksmith FMC - completely stole my heart. She's hiding a dangerous gift and hunting her mother's killer, and her journey throws her into a brutal tournament, a fearsome castle rescue, and men who would destroy her kind. Between her blacksmith ally haunted by a dark past and the brooding captain tied to her own - consider me completely obsessed.
The worldbuilding? Chef's kiss - rich and immersive without being overwhelming. The tropes? Troping like their lives depended on it. I adored every backstory, especially Torgrin's journal entries (emotional gut punch, but in the best way). Even the side characters felt alive and purposeful (even Nightmare Caris's horse).
And the ending. Let's just say... I sat there in stunned silence, blinking at the wall like "IVY. HOW COULD YOU?!" 😭 If book two was already out, l'd have purchased then and there to continue the series. I needed it like, yesterday!
Perfect for readers who love:
⚔️Fierce FMC blacksmith
🔥Forbidden powers
🏰Medieval fantasy settings
💀Trials + tournaments
❤️🔥Fated mates & tension
👊F*** the patriarchy
🖤Touch her/him and 💀
This debut seriously knocked me off my feet - I was obsessed from page one. If it's not on your TBR, add it now and preorder your copy ASAP!! 🖤
Thank you so much @haus.of.fables_pr @ivycliffwater @moapress for this ARC copy of The Shadow Weaver.
Umm... debut novel?! Excuse me?? Because this felt like the work of a seasoned pro. This was my first 5 ⭐️ read in ages.
This book has it all: forbidden power, deadly secrets, sizzling romance, and heart-pounding action. Caris Ironside - our fierce, blacksmith FMC - completely stole my heart. She's hiding a dangerous gift and hunting her mother's killer, and her journey throws her into a brutal tournament, a fearsome castle rescue, and men who would destroy her kind. Between her blacksmith ally haunted by a dark past and the brooding captain tied to her own - consider me completely obsessed.
The worldbuilding? Chef's kiss - rich and immersive without being overwhelming. The tropes? Troping like their lives depended on it. I adored every backstory, especially Torgrin's journal entries (emotional gut punch, but in the best way). Even the side characters felt alive and purposeful (even Nightmare Caris's horse).
And the ending. Let's just say... I sat there in stunned silence, blinking at the wall like "IVY. HOW COULD YOU?!" 😭 If book two was already out, l'd have purchased then and there to continue the series. I needed it like, yesterday!
Perfect for readers who love:
⚔️Fierce FMC blacksmith
🔥Forbidden powers
🏰Medieval fantasy settings
💀Trials + tournaments
❤️🔥Fated mates & tension
👊F*** the patriarchy
🖤Touch her/him and 💀
This debut seriously knocked me off my feet - I was obsessed from page one. If it's not on your TBR, add it now and preorder your copy ASAP!! 🖤
Thank you so much @haus.of.fables_pr @ivycliffwater @moapress for this ARC copy of The Shadow Weaver.
October 9, 2025
Well I clearly flew through this!! This was totally fun!! I’m seriously loving the influx of “Lady Knights” in fantasy recently just such a fun trope!!!
I really enjoyed the easy flow of this story, it was just enjoyable, engaging and fun all the way through. The magic system was very cool, I love the concept of the different weavers ( mind, shadow, anatomy, iron etc) it was just a really interesting but still easy to understand system!!
I’m usually not a fan of a love triangle — this one however I actually really enjoyed!!
Character wise, I loved that this was a larger cast of characters because I think it adds way more depth to the story for us as a reader, it also has you rooting for more than just the main characters, I always think that little side stories about side characters make or break a book and it was very well done here.
Overall I had a great time!! Looking forward to book two!!
You will like this if you liked things like Quicksilver, Shield of Sparrows, The Night and The Moth and The Second Death of Locke. 🤍
I really enjoyed the easy flow of this story, it was just enjoyable, engaging and fun all the way through. The magic system was very cool, I love the concept of the different weavers ( mind, shadow, anatomy, iron etc) it was just a really interesting but still easy to understand system!!
I’m usually not a fan of a love triangle — this one however I actually really enjoyed!!
Character wise, I loved that this was a larger cast of characters because I think it adds way more depth to the story for us as a reader, it also has you rooting for more than just the main characters, I always think that little side stories about side characters make or break a book and it was very well done here.
Overall I had a great time!! Looking forward to book two!!
You will like this if you liked things like Quicksilver, Shield of Sparrows, The Night and The Moth and The Second Death of Locke. 🤍
September 29, 2025
4.5🌟 I freaking loved this Dark Romantasy!!! Devoured in one sitting, I could not put it down! The pacing was so on point and I instantly fell in love with the characters. A stunning debut filled with rage fuelled plot, interesting magic that i can't wait to learn more about and some delish tension filled romance.
We love a 6 foot lady knight and Caris has to be one of my new fav FMCs. And the MCs well I loved them both - who doesn't want a golden retriever dad bod blacksmith and a dark brooding captain?!? I can't wait for book 2- tears were shed and I'm worried for what's next!
We love a 6 foot lady knight and Caris has to be one of my new fav FMCs. And the MCs well I loved them both - who doesn't want a golden retriever dad bod blacksmith and a dark brooding captain?!? I can't wait for book 2- tears were shed and I'm worried for what's next!
July 22, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Firstly I'd like to thank Netgalley, @moapress & Ivy for an Advance Reader Copy of The Shadow Weaver!
Wow, I went into this after a little bit of a reading slump and it absolutely threatened to put me in a hangover!
What an amazing debut fantasy romance!
The world building in this is probably one of my favourites I've read, it's not too overwhelming and Ivy describes the world in such a beautiful way!
The characters are diverse and not bland at all! If you are a lover of side characters like I am you will not be disappointed, my favourite character! 🤭
I absolutely recommend The Shadow Weaver to any fantasy or romance lovers!
I don't want to say too much and potentially give any spoilers so that's all I will say for now! 🤐🥰
Firstly I'd like to thank Netgalley, @moapress & Ivy for an Advance Reader Copy of The Shadow Weaver!
Wow, I went into this after a little bit of a reading slump and it absolutely threatened to put me in a hangover!
What an amazing debut fantasy romance!
The world building in this is probably one of my favourites I've read, it's not too overwhelming and Ivy describes the world in such a beautiful way!
The characters are diverse and not bland at all! If you are a lover of side characters like I am you will not be disappointed, my favourite character! 🤭
I absolutely recommend The Shadow Weaver to any fantasy or romance lovers!
I don't want to say too much and potentially give any spoilers so that's all I will say for now! 🤐🥰
September 11, 2025
Adored this romantasy! It was so refreshing to read characters in this genre who feel mature yet still flawed. This book was addicting and so well written. I’m honoured to have received an ARC of this to read. Definitely recommend everyone add this to the top of their TBR.
August 10, 2025
DNFed 25% in.
This book is in desperate need of developmental editing. It was messy, chaotic and confusing. Very much read like a first draft. I found the dialogue cringey and there was also a huge cliche thrown in during the tournament. There was also mention of naked minors having pubic hair? Very weird and completely unnecessary.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette for this eArc to review.
This book is in desperate need of developmental editing. It was messy, chaotic and confusing. Very much read like a first draft. I found the dialogue cringey and there was also a huge cliche thrown in during the tournament. There was also mention of naked minors having pubic hair? Very weird and completely unnecessary.
Thank you to Netgalley and Hachette for this eArc to review.
October 15, 2025
I found this book really addictive and I loved the strong FMC. She was cool, witty and heroic! Plus welds an amazing sword!.
I think this is a brilliant duvet book and extra awesome that she’s a fellow Kiwi. I’m looking forward to reading the second book.
I think this is a brilliant duvet book and extra awesome that she’s a fellow Kiwi. I’m looking forward to reading the second book.
October 2, 2025
Forged from iron and shadow, Caris Ironside’s story pulled me into her dangerous world of vengeance, secrets, and forbidden magic. 🔥⚔️ She was an outcast, a blacksmith hiding a deadly secret, and the only woman known to craft legendary swords. Her search for her mother’s killer took her into a brutal tournament (disguised as a man—yes 👀🙌), and then into Capita, a city ruled by The Order of Men, who were determined to eradicate the Cursed. Along the way, she found herself entangled with two very different men: Cillian, the sweet blacksmith with golden-retriever energy 🐶, and Torgrin, the brooding captain who saved her life as a child and had that “emotionless but actually soft” vibe 🖤.
I did enjoy the plot itself—it kept me turning pages. The forbidden magic element ✨ and the mystery surrounding Caris’s past and powers intrigued me, and I loved the tournament-to-palace progression. The settings felt immersive and atmospheric, and I definitely wanted to know what happened next. The ending left me with so many questions, which is always a good sign when it comes to duologies. 👏
That said, I wasn’t as invested as I wanted to be. 💔 The pacing was quick, making it bingeable, but sometimes I wished for more depth and slower build-up, especially in the character development and relationships. The romance didn’t quite give me the butterflies I usually look for in romantasy—it felt a little rushed and at times told rather than shown. The love triangle wasn’t my favorite (personal preference!), but I know many readers will love that dynamic. Cillian was adorable, but I’ll admit I always have a soft spot for the cold-hearted one who secretly cares… and Torgrin definitely delivered there. 😏
The characters leaned into recognizable archetypes—the sweet puppy-love boy, the jealous rival woman, the older mentor, the broody man with dimples—fun, but I wished for a bit more complexity to make them stand out beyond the tropes. The dialogue also felt a little too simple for me at times, which made the emotional beats less impactful.
Still, for a debut, this was solid! 💫 Ivy Cliffwater built a world I’d like to see more of, and Caris as a tall, strong, weapon-wielding FMC was a highlight. 💪 I loved that she wasn’t fragile or shrinking but fully capable in her own right. That alone makes me excited to pick up book two.
✨ Tropes you’ll find here:
⚔️ Tournament disguise as a man
🖤 Broody captain of the guard with a hidden soft side
🐶 Sweet blacksmith with golden retriever energy
🩸 Traumatic past + more trauma incoming (because fantasy loves this 😅)
🔥 Forbidden magic / cursed heroine
💔 Love triangle vibes
👑 Court intrigue + dangerous Order
🔪 Vengeance quest
Overall, this book wasn’t fully for me, but I did enjoy many parts of it, and I know it will find its audience. If you love forbidden magic, tournaments, swordsmith heroines, and a mix of golden retriever vs. broody romance, this might just be for you. 💕
Thank you to the author and Haus of Fable for the ARC opportunity! 🙏
I did enjoy the plot itself—it kept me turning pages. The forbidden magic element ✨ and the mystery surrounding Caris’s past and powers intrigued me, and I loved the tournament-to-palace progression. The settings felt immersive and atmospheric, and I definitely wanted to know what happened next. The ending left me with so many questions, which is always a good sign when it comes to duologies. 👏
That said, I wasn’t as invested as I wanted to be. 💔 The pacing was quick, making it bingeable, but sometimes I wished for more depth and slower build-up, especially in the character development and relationships. The romance didn’t quite give me the butterflies I usually look for in romantasy—it felt a little rushed and at times told rather than shown. The love triangle wasn’t my favorite (personal preference!), but I know many readers will love that dynamic. Cillian was adorable, but I’ll admit I always have a soft spot for the cold-hearted one who secretly cares… and Torgrin definitely delivered there. 😏
The characters leaned into recognizable archetypes—the sweet puppy-love boy, the jealous rival woman, the older mentor, the broody man with dimples—fun, but I wished for a bit more complexity to make them stand out beyond the tropes. The dialogue also felt a little too simple for me at times, which made the emotional beats less impactful.
Still, for a debut, this was solid! 💫 Ivy Cliffwater built a world I’d like to see more of, and Caris as a tall, strong, weapon-wielding FMC was a highlight. 💪 I loved that she wasn’t fragile or shrinking but fully capable in her own right. That alone makes me excited to pick up book two.
✨ Tropes you’ll find here:
⚔️ Tournament disguise as a man
🖤 Broody captain of the guard with a hidden soft side
🐶 Sweet blacksmith with golden retriever energy
🩸 Traumatic past + more trauma incoming (because fantasy loves this 😅)
🔥 Forbidden magic / cursed heroine
💔 Love triangle vibes
👑 Court intrigue + dangerous Order
🔪 Vengeance quest
Overall, this book wasn’t fully for me, but I did enjoy many parts of it, and I know it will find its audience. If you love forbidden magic, tournaments, swordsmith heroines, and a mix of golden retriever vs. broody romance, this might just be for you. 💕
Thank you to the author and Haus of Fable for the ARC opportunity! 🙏
September 28, 2025
If this book doesn’t leave a mark on your heart, I don’t know what will. The Shadow Weaver absolutely blew me away. From start to finish it held me in its grip—this is what I want from a fantasy book.
One of the things I appreciated most was not having a prophecy spelled out ahead of time. It meant the mystery had weight. I couldn’t predict everything; the revelations felt earned. Some plot points felt familiar, but because the world and characters were so strong, the familiar parts didn’t feel stale.
The characters are incredibly well done. Caris Ironside stole the show for me — a blacksmith, an outcast, a fighter in more ways than one. Watching her face judgement, power, fear and hope made me root for her so hard. Also, the side characters are brilliant; even minor characters had moments that mattered.
Oh, and my heart is very much broken (in the good, painful way). I also found myself talking to myself through this book. My partner gave me weird looks, but honestly, that’s how I know the story’s hitting its mark.
The villains are truly despicable—and that’s a compliment. Ivy Cliffwater doesn’t let the antagonists be one-dimensional; they have motivations and bring real danger. Their presence elevates the stakes and makes the eventual wins (and losses) all the more visceral.
World-building is gorgeous, it’s detailed without being overwhelming. I loved the craftsmanship, the forging, the textures of metal, shadow, fire. The way the magic and the society interweave—how being “Cursed” impacts how people behave, the prejudices, the tournaments, the dangers—is strong and evocative.
Everything about this book is heartbreaking, hopeful, tense, amusing, and everything in between. The Shadow Weaver will stay with me for a long, long time.
Thank you very much for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables
One of the things I appreciated most was not having a prophecy spelled out ahead of time. It meant the mystery had weight. I couldn’t predict everything; the revelations felt earned. Some plot points felt familiar, but because the world and characters were so strong, the familiar parts didn’t feel stale.
The characters are incredibly well done. Caris Ironside stole the show for me — a blacksmith, an outcast, a fighter in more ways than one. Watching her face judgement, power, fear and hope made me root for her so hard. Also, the side characters are brilliant; even minor characters had moments that mattered.
Oh, and my heart is very much broken (in the good, painful way). I also found myself talking to myself through this book. My partner gave me weird looks, but honestly, that’s how I know the story’s hitting its mark.
The villains are truly despicable—and that’s a compliment. Ivy Cliffwater doesn’t let the antagonists be one-dimensional; they have motivations and bring real danger. Their presence elevates the stakes and makes the eventual wins (and losses) all the more visceral.
World-building is gorgeous, it’s detailed without being overwhelming. I loved the craftsmanship, the forging, the textures of metal, shadow, fire. The way the magic and the society interweave—how being “Cursed” impacts how people behave, the prejudices, the tournaments, the dangers—is strong and evocative.
Everything about this book is heartbreaking, hopeful, tense, amusing, and everything in between. The Shadow Weaver will stay with me for a long, long time.
Thank you very much for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables
September 9, 2025
𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘣𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩
𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦
𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴
𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵
𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘤 𝘷𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘴
𝘏𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴
𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯
𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘺
✨ This cover is 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔, and the map inside? 𝐺𝑜𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑠! ✨
What a fantastic debut! 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑆ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤 𝑊𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑟 is an epic romantic fantasy brimming with forbidden power, deadly secrets, and heart-pounding action. It has it all—passion, danger, heartbreak, and a heroine you can’t help but root for.
Caris Ironside is the only woman blacksmith, hiding her forbidden power while secretly hunting her mother’s killer. Her quest pulls her into a brutal tournament and a perilous rescue mission inside the castle, where the ruthless Order of Men hunts her kind without mercy. To survive, she must rely on a scarred blacksmith and a brooding captain from her past. But vengeance has a cost, and the greatest danger may come from the darkness within.
I 𝑑𝑒𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑒𝑑 this book. The storyline was addictive, full of the tropes I love most. Torgrin’s journal entries were a standout addition, adding depth and emotional weight—I savored every one. This story will make you swoon, it will make you cry, and it will linger long after the last page. To say I’m excited for book two is an understatement.
✨ A sweeping romantasy packed into just two books. Romantasy readers, 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑆ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤 𝑊𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑟 belongs on your TBR. 📚
✦ Thank you @haus.of.fables_pr + @moapress + @ivycliffwater for the early copy of this fantastic book!
Rating: 4.5/5
𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘦
𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴
𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵
𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘦𝘷𝘢𝘭 𝘨𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘤 𝘷𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘴
𝘏𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘴
𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘦 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯
𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘩𝘺
✨ This cover is 𝑠𝑡𝑢𝑛𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔, and the map inside? 𝐺𝑜𝑟𝑔𝑒𝑜𝑢𝑠! ✨
What a fantastic debut! 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑆ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤 𝑊𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑟 is an epic romantic fantasy brimming with forbidden power, deadly secrets, and heart-pounding action. It has it all—passion, danger, heartbreak, and a heroine you can’t help but root for.
Caris Ironside is the only woman blacksmith, hiding her forbidden power while secretly hunting her mother’s killer. Her quest pulls her into a brutal tournament and a perilous rescue mission inside the castle, where the ruthless Order of Men hunts her kind without mercy. To survive, she must rely on a scarred blacksmith and a brooding captain from her past. But vengeance has a cost, and the greatest danger may come from the darkness within.
I 𝑑𝑒𝑣𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑒𝑑 this book. The storyline was addictive, full of the tropes I love most. Torgrin’s journal entries were a standout addition, adding depth and emotional weight—I savored every one. This story will make you swoon, it will make you cry, and it will linger long after the last page. To say I’m excited for book two is an understatement.
✨ A sweeping romantasy packed into just two books. Romantasy readers, 𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑆ℎ𝑎𝑑𝑜𝑤 𝑊𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑟 belongs on your TBR. 📚
✦ Thank you @haus.of.fables_pr + @moapress + @ivycliffwater for the early copy of this fantastic book!
Rating: 4.5/5
October 8, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
As a 6ft girly myself it was so incredibly refreshing to read about a female main character who was my height, but also strong, with a frame built for sword weilding and who wasn't uncertain in her abilities in the least. I loved the way Ivy wrote Caris.
The language used throughout the book is simple and easy to follow along with, the storyline intriguing and full of mystery and the love triangle was beautifully executed and not done purely for conflict, there were genuine connections (which is refreshing).
In a land where women are condemned for having the 'curse' Caris, a master blacksmith and sword fighter, must hide the Shadows that come to her fingertips or face death. On the hunt for the monster who killed her adoptive mother, she crosses paths with a soft and kind blacksmith, Cillian, and the enigmatic Captain Torgrin, with whom she shares a horrific past encounter with, yet who she's drawn to helplessly.
Entering a men's only tournament to further her revenge agenda, she ends up facing her greatest fears, finding and losing friends and family and embarking on a quest that puts her on a path she can't look back from.
If you love:
- strong and tall blacksmith FMC
- touch her and die vibes
- soft cinnamon roll MMC
- morally grey and mysterious MMC
- love triangle
- death and violence
- forbidden magic
- epic battles
Then add this to your TBR! I read this one prior to the release date.
As a 6ft girly myself it was so incredibly refreshing to read about a female main character who was my height, but also strong, with a frame built for sword weilding and who wasn't uncertain in her abilities in the least. I loved the way Ivy wrote Caris.
The language used throughout the book is simple and easy to follow along with, the storyline intriguing and full of mystery and the love triangle was beautifully executed and not done purely for conflict, there were genuine connections (which is refreshing).
In a land where women are condemned for having the 'curse' Caris, a master blacksmith and sword fighter, must hide the Shadows that come to her fingertips or face death. On the hunt for the monster who killed her adoptive mother, she crosses paths with a soft and kind blacksmith, Cillian, and the enigmatic Captain Torgrin, with whom she shares a horrific past encounter with, yet who she's drawn to helplessly.
Entering a men's only tournament to further her revenge agenda, she ends up facing her greatest fears, finding and losing friends and family and embarking on a quest that puts her on a path she can't look back from.
If you love:
- strong and tall blacksmith FMC
- touch her and die vibes
- soft cinnamon roll MMC
- morally grey and mysterious MMC
- love triangle
- death and violence
- forbidden magic
- epic battles
Then add this to your TBR! I read this one prior to the release date.
September 7, 2025
📚ARC REVIEW📚
TITLE: The Shadow Weaver
AUTHOR:@ivycliffwater
RELEASE DATE: 21st October
"Three souls bound across eternity. Fated to find each other in every life."
Thank you to @haus.of.fables_pr for my ARC of this debut from Ivy. I guess also thank you to my bookwife @navarda.reads
for ensuring that there was no chance i was making it through life without reading this.
Book one in The Broken Sword Duology, this story hooked me from the prologue, my mind already wanting to churn out theories. The characters themselves, chefs kiss. We love a strong FMC and Caris embodies that and more despite what she carries. Our men, well each had their moment that I wanted to throttle them and then the rest of the time I'm pretty sure I was a puddle 🥵🫠 The villain was villaining and there were a few characters who received death threats.
Without giving too much away I highly recommend you pick this up if you enjoy any of the following;
⚔️ Love triangle
⚔️ Prophecy
⚔️ Fated mates
⚔️ Hidden powers
⚔️ F*** the patriarchy
⚔️ Touch her/him and 💀
⚔️ Woman blacksmith
Ivy, sorry not sorry for spamming your DMs with voice notes as I embarked on this journey alongside Caris.
@moapress
#theshadowweaver #ivycliffwater #fantasybook #duology #nzauthor #fantasyrecs #uocomingrelease #arcreview
#nzbookstagrammer #bookstagramnz #fantasyromance
TITLE: The Shadow Weaver
AUTHOR:@ivycliffwater
RELEASE DATE: 21st October
"Three souls bound across eternity. Fated to find each other in every life."
Thank you to @haus.of.fables_pr for my ARC of this debut from Ivy. I guess also thank you to my bookwife @navarda.reads
for ensuring that there was no chance i was making it through life without reading this.
Book one in The Broken Sword Duology, this story hooked me from the prologue, my mind already wanting to churn out theories. The characters themselves, chefs kiss. We love a strong FMC and Caris embodies that and more despite what she carries. Our men, well each had their moment that I wanted to throttle them and then the rest of the time I'm pretty sure I was a puddle 🥵🫠 The villain was villaining and there were a few characters who received death threats.
Without giving too much away I highly recommend you pick this up if you enjoy any of the following;
⚔️ Love triangle
⚔️ Prophecy
⚔️ Fated mates
⚔️ Hidden powers
⚔️ F*** the patriarchy
⚔️ Touch her/him and 💀
⚔️ Woman blacksmith
Ivy, sorry not sorry for spamming your DMs with voice notes as I embarked on this journey alongside Caris.
@moapress
#theshadowweaver #ivycliffwater #fantasybook #duology #nzauthor #fantasyrecs #uocomingrelease #arcreview
#nzbookstagrammer #bookstagramnz #fantasyromance
September 20, 2025
The Shadow Weaver pulled me in from the very first page. Caris Ironside is exactly the kind of heroine I love—fierce, stubborn, and carrying a secret that could destroy her if it’s ever revealed. The blend of blacksmith grit, hidden magic, and deadly tournaments made the world feel sharp and alive. I could almost smell the forge and feel the tension in every shadowed alley.
The magic system was fascinating—dangerous, beautiful, and threaded with a cost that kept me on edge. I especially loved how the story balanced action with character depth. Caris’s internal struggle between survival and vengeance gave the stakes real weight, and every choice she made felt earned.
Romance-wise, it’s more tension than heat for now, but the chemistry is there, simmering under layers of distrust and danger. The supporting cast added intrigue, though I occasionally wished a few side characters had more depth to match the complexity of the leads.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? A few twists were predictable, and there were moments where I wanted a little more intensity in the confrontations. But the atmosphere, the sharp writing, and the promise of what’s coming in book two easily make this a series I’ll keep reading.
If you love dangerous magic, slow-burn tension, and heroines who fight for their own power, this is one to watch.
Thankyou to Haus of fables for this gifted e Arc
The magic system was fascinating—dangerous, beautiful, and threaded with a cost that kept me on edge. I especially loved how the story balanced action with character depth. Caris’s internal struggle between survival and vengeance gave the stakes real weight, and every choice she made felt earned.
Romance-wise, it’s more tension than heat for now, but the chemistry is there, simmering under layers of distrust and danger. The supporting cast added intrigue, though I occasionally wished a few side characters had more depth to match the complexity of the leads.
Why 4 stars instead of 5? A few twists were predictable, and there were moments where I wanted a little more intensity in the confrontations. But the atmosphere, the sharp writing, and the promise of what’s coming in book two easily make this a series I’ll keep reading.
If you love dangerous magic, slow-burn tension, and heroines who fight for their own power, this is one to watch.
Thankyou to Haus of fables for this gifted e Arc
September 21, 2025
Actual Rating: 3.5
The Shadow Weaver is a fast paced debut that blends vengeance, forbidden magic and found family with a strong willed heroine. Caris Ironside is tall, fierce and unapologetically skilled. She is the only woman known to craft legendary swords and is hiding a deadly secret. I loved her blacksmith background and the determination that carried her through the brutal tournament arc.
There’s a lot packed into this book: secret identities, a cursed heroine navigating a kingdom that wants her dead and two very different love interests... golden retriever Cillian and the brooding duty bound Torgrin (you know which one I was rooting for). The romantic tension had its moments, though I wanted more build up and emotional weight behind some of the key connections.
The writing leans more bingeable than lyrical which made this an easy read, even if I wished for more depth in the dialogue and worldbuilding. A few character moments and scene transitions felt a bit rushed, but the core of the story held my interest especially the darker reveals toward the end. Caris is still coming into herself and I’m curious to see how the magic system and character arcs evolve in the next book.
A solid debut with great bones and strong romantasy appeal. Thank you to Hachette Australia & New Zealand | Moa Press and NetGalley for the eARC.
The Shadow Weaver is a fast paced debut that blends vengeance, forbidden magic and found family with a strong willed heroine. Caris Ironside is tall, fierce and unapologetically skilled. She is the only woman known to craft legendary swords and is hiding a deadly secret. I loved her blacksmith background and the determination that carried her through the brutal tournament arc.
There’s a lot packed into this book: secret identities, a cursed heroine navigating a kingdom that wants her dead and two very different love interests... golden retriever Cillian and the brooding duty bound Torgrin (you know which one I was rooting for). The romantic tension had its moments, though I wanted more build up and emotional weight behind some of the key connections.
The writing leans more bingeable than lyrical which made this an easy read, even if I wished for more depth in the dialogue and worldbuilding. A few character moments and scene transitions felt a bit rushed, but the core of the story held my interest especially the darker reveals toward the end. Caris is still coming into herself and I’m curious to see how the magic system and character arcs evolve in the next book.
A solid debut with great bones and strong romantasy appeal. Thank you to Hachette Australia & New Zealand | Moa Press and NetGalley for the eARC.
September 28, 2025
*3.5 stars*
*Thank you to Haus of Fables & MOA Press for providing a digital copy to review*
I love a fantasy with a strong and independent FMC, so I was really looking forward to reading it. While I did like it, there were issues that just stopped me from being truly invested in the story.
I did like Caris as an FMC. The book is mostly her POV, and we more or less know her motivations from the very beginning. Revenge. Which I am a fan of. She’s a Blacksmith, so she’s capable with a sword and can hold her own against most men. There’s also a softness to her, which I thought made her a bit more well-rounded as a character.
As it’s just one POV, we don’t really get much from the other characters, and I found myself not really fully trusting them. I also really struggled with the pacing. The events at the beginning of the book, including Caris’ relationship with Cillian, felt like they developed so quickly, and I just couldn’t feel invested in their relationship.
Torgrin was a real mystery, which I guess was the point. I also wasn’t really sold on their relationship, but I did find it more appealing. What can I say, I’m a sucker for a dark and mysterious man. I also really liked Atlas. I think he’s quite an important character, so I definitely want more of him in the next book.
The book ended on a good cliffhanger, leaving some questions that need to be answered. There was one particular plot point that I was really invested in, so hopefully the next book goes into that more, which I am excited for.
*Thank you to Haus of Fables & MOA Press for providing a digital copy to review*
I love a fantasy with a strong and independent FMC, so I was really looking forward to reading it. While I did like it, there were issues that just stopped me from being truly invested in the story.
I did like Caris as an FMC. The book is mostly her POV, and we more or less know her motivations from the very beginning. Revenge. Which I am a fan of. She’s a Blacksmith, so she’s capable with a sword and can hold her own against most men. There’s also a softness to her, which I thought made her a bit more well-rounded as a character.
As it’s just one POV, we don’t really get much from the other characters, and I found myself not really fully trusting them. I also really struggled with the pacing. The events at the beginning of the book, including Caris’ relationship with Cillian, felt like they developed so quickly, and I just couldn’t feel invested in their relationship.
Torgrin was a real mystery, which I guess was the point. I also wasn’t really sold on their relationship, but I did find it more appealing. What can I say, I’m a sucker for a dark and mysterious man. I also really liked Atlas. I think he’s quite an important character, so I definitely want more of him in the next book.
The book ended on a good cliffhanger, leaving some questions that need to be answered. There was one particular plot point that I was really invested in, so hopefully the next book goes into that more, which I am excited for.
October 7, 2025
OVERALL RATING: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3/5
SPICE RATING: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Thankyou to NetGalley and Hachette ANZ for an ARC of The Shadow Weaver by Ivy Cliffwater.
This was a super-fast paced easy read that I read in like 2 days.
The writing is very YA – simple writing that’s not difficult to understand or follow but lacks the depth that an older audience would expect.
If you are after a literary fantasy masterpiece – this isn’t for you. In contradiction to the writing style, the spice was very adult.
This book kind of felt like it had every trope under the sun shoved into it, as well as every cliché in a fantasy book.
There was no mystery whatsoever in this story – the author literally told you everything as you went – there was no suspense.
The end-game love interest was super insta-attraction and there was no basis for their affection. The love story between Caris and Cillian on the other hand was nice, we got to watch it grow slowly and I loved them together!
This book could have been so much better if the story was fleshed out a bit more, with a lot more suspense and mystery to the plot. Even writing the scenes more in depth and longer would have added more to the story – everything seemed so fast and too easily overcome.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and I would continue in hopes the writing and story evolves more!
SPICE RATING: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5
Thankyou to NetGalley and Hachette ANZ for an ARC of The Shadow Weaver by Ivy Cliffwater.
This was a super-fast paced easy read that I read in like 2 days.
The writing is very YA – simple writing that’s not difficult to understand or follow but lacks the depth that an older audience would expect.
If you are after a literary fantasy masterpiece – this isn’t for you. In contradiction to the writing style, the spice was very adult.
This book kind of felt like it had every trope under the sun shoved into it, as well as every cliché in a fantasy book.
There was no mystery whatsoever in this story – the author literally told you everything as you went – there was no suspense.
The end-game love interest was super insta-attraction and there was no basis for their affection. The love story between Caris and Cillian on the other hand was nice, we got to watch it grow slowly and I loved them together!
This book could have been so much better if the story was fleshed out a bit more, with a lot more suspense and mystery to the plot. Even writing the scenes more in depth and longer would have added more to the story – everything seemed so fast and too easily overcome.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and I would continue in hopes the writing and story evolves more!
September 22, 2025
This is the kind of book that you devour piece by glorious piece until you are so mentally satisfied that you need to sit listening to Florence and the Machine at maximum volume.
We follow the story of Caris… a badass FMC who has gone through such trials and tribulations in her life that, as a reader, your heart breaks into a million tiny pieces. From the beginning I was hooked.. the writing drawing me into the world of our strong, loyal Brienne of Tarth coded heroine. Then we have our fiercely protective Captain Torgrin and our warm, golden retriever blacksmith Cillian added to the mix.
I don’t want to share too much as I truly feel that it should be experienced blind but some of the highlights for me.
✨Shadow Mommy
⚔️Medieval Setting
✨Love Triangle
⚔️Forbidden Magic
It actually blows my mind that this is a debut novel as it was so beautifully written that it will be sitting with me for days.
This was hands down a 5 ⭐️ read and should be read by all when it officially releases on 21st October.
Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables @haus.of.fables_pr @haus.of.fables #hausoffables_pr #TheShadowWeaver
We follow the story of Caris… a badass FMC who has gone through such trials and tribulations in her life that, as a reader, your heart breaks into a million tiny pieces. From the beginning I was hooked.. the writing drawing me into the world of our strong, loyal Brienne of Tarth coded heroine. Then we have our fiercely protective Captain Torgrin and our warm, golden retriever blacksmith Cillian added to the mix.
I don’t want to share too much as I truly feel that it should be experienced blind but some of the highlights for me.
✨Shadow Mommy
⚔️Medieval Setting
✨Love Triangle
⚔️Forbidden Magic
It actually blows my mind that this is a debut novel as it was so beautifully written that it will be sitting with me for days.
This was hands down a 5 ⭐️ read and should be read by all when it officially releases on 21st October.
Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables @haus.of.fables_pr @haus.of.fables #hausoffables_pr #TheShadowWeaver
October 1, 2025
The Shadow Weaver by Ivy Cliffwater is an intriguing fantasy that follows Caris trying to avenge her mothers death while hiding a secret curse that could see her killed.
This book was good and I enjoyed the plot but I did find the the first 50% was quite slow and the second 50%, where things got really interesting was rushed. Personally for me I would have liked to have dived deeper into the second 50% and spend more time exploring the themes there.
That being said what we did learn in the second half was super interesting, I'll keep it spoiler free here but there was definitely some great fantasy elements introduced and while we didnt touch on them too deeply in this book I think the second book will explore them more and I am so excited to learn more about these characters and this world.
The writing is very simplistic which made for an easy read but personally (and this is just personal preference and might be completely different for others) I would have liked some more depth in the writing and the characters. I feel that would have given me a stronger connection to the characters and the story.
This was definitely a solid book though and very enjoyable. Its releasing on October 21st and should definitely be added to your TBR
This book was good and I enjoyed the plot but I did find the the first 50% was quite slow and the second 50%, where things got really interesting was rushed. Personally for me I would have liked to have dived deeper into the second 50% and spend more time exploring the themes there.
That being said what we did learn in the second half was super interesting, I'll keep it spoiler free here but there was definitely some great fantasy elements introduced and while we didnt touch on them too deeply in this book I think the second book will explore them more and I am so excited to learn more about these characters and this world.
The writing is very simplistic which made for an easy read but personally (and this is just personal preference and might be completely different for others) I would have liked some more depth in the writing and the characters. I feel that would have given me a stronger connection to the characters and the story.
This was definitely a solid book though and very enjoyable. Its releasing on October 21st and should definitely be added to your TBR
September 19, 2025
First, let me start by thanking the author, Ivy Cliffwater, and Haus of Fables for this ARC. I was so excited to receive it! It sounded so promising, and boy did it deliver. I truly can’t believe this is Ivy’s debut novel.
The Shadow Weaver was a 4.5 star read for me. It reminded me of The Lies of Lena or Of Blood and Aether in terms of the length and the style it was written in. There were various plot lines occurring at once, which kept me guessing about where the story would go. The plot had a lot to offer- many interesting and memorable characters, unexpected relationship development, and multiple avenues for action and mystery. It felt like multiple books in one, in a good way. The romance, especially, was written unconventionally. I thought I had it all figured out but I was wrong (at least partially).
I felt happy with the ending of the book, but I need so many answers! The author barely scratched the surface in terms of where can take the plot from here. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.
The Shadow Weaver was a 4.5 star read for me. It reminded me of The Lies of Lena or Of Blood and Aether in terms of the length and the style it was written in. There were various plot lines occurring at once, which kept me guessing about where the story would go. The plot had a lot to offer- many interesting and memorable characters, unexpected relationship development, and multiple avenues for action and mystery. It felt like multiple books in one, in a good way. The romance, especially, was written unconventionally. I thought I had it all figured out but I was wrong (at least partially).
I felt happy with the ending of the book, but I need so many answers! The author barely scratched the surface in terms of where can take the plot from here. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.
October 8, 2025
✨ The Shadow Weaver by Ivy Cliffwater ✨
📖 Provided by Haus of Fables & MOA Press
I’m sorry… HOW is this a debut novel?! 😭 I’m genuinely in shock because this was pure romantasy perfection — everything I could ever want wrapped up in one unputdownable story.
We’re talking:
👑 Secret royals & dangerous prophecies
💀 Past lives & haunting trauma (check those TWs!)
🔥 Found family, tension, and spice that had me feral
🌪️ Shadow-wielding feminine rage
💔 Emotional damage I will never forgive Ivy for
🖤 MMCs who would burn kingdoms for their FMC
👀 Villains you’ll want to gouge their eyes out (in the best way)
The world-building was magical, the twists were twisting, and the plot had me completely hooked from start to finish. I literally lost hours of sleep because I could not put it down 😭💫
If you love darkly magical worlds, loyal found families, and slow-burn romantasy tension that keeps your heart racing, The Shadow Weaver needs to be at the very top of your TBR. Don’t sleep on this book — it’s everything the romantasy girlies have been waiting for. 🖤
📖 Provided by Haus of Fables & MOA Press
I’m sorry… HOW is this a debut novel?! 😭 I’m genuinely in shock because this was pure romantasy perfection — everything I could ever want wrapped up in one unputdownable story.
We’re talking:
👑 Secret royals & dangerous prophecies
💀 Past lives & haunting trauma (check those TWs!)
🔥 Found family, tension, and spice that had me feral
🌪️ Shadow-wielding feminine rage
💔 Emotional damage I will never forgive Ivy for
🖤 MMCs who would burn kingdoms for their FMC
👀 Villains you’ll want to gouge their eyes out (in the best way)
The world-building was magical, the twists were twisting, and the plot had me completely hooked from start to finish. I literally lost hours of sleep because I could not put it down 😭💫
If you love darkly magical worlds, loyal found families, and slow-burn romantasy tension that keeps your heart racing, The Shadow Weaver needs to be at the very top of your TBR. Don’t sleep on this book — it’s everything the romantasy girlies have been waiting for. 🖤
October 13, 2025
This was a highly anticipated read for me and it did not disappoint.
The author has created a medieval world full of characters with grit, determination and heart. We have trials, a unique magic system, found family, a love triangle done right and a story which had me feeling all of the emotions.
Caris Ironside is a woman blacksmith, hiding a forbidden power and on a quest for vengeance. She’s tall, strong and capable but also layered with naivety which makes her real and relatable.
Our two MMCs are the complete opposite of each other which makes it hard not to love them both but the love triangle is well done and the romance doesn’t overshadow the plot.
The author’s writing style is simple and easy to read, perfect for newcomers to the genre or those wanting a more relaxed reading experience without having to think too much. Personally I would have liked a bit more depth to further enhance Caris’s emotional journey and pull me deeper into the world. However, I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface with this book and there is so much potential for book 2.
I can’t wait to see where the author takes us next!
The author has created a medieval world full of characters with grit, determination and heart. We have trials, a unique magic system, found family, a love triangle done right and a story which had me feeling all of the emotions.
Caris Ironside is a woman blacksmith, hiding a forbidden power and on a quest for vengeance. She’s tall, strong and capable but also layered with naivety which makes her real and relatable.
Our two MMCs are the complete opposite of each other which makes it hard not to love them both but the love triangle is well done and the romance doesn’t overshadow the plot.
The author’s writing style is simple and easy to read, perfect for newcomers to the genre or those wanting a more relaxed reading experience without having to think too much. Personally I would have liked a bit more depth to further enhance Caris’s emotional journey and pull me deeper into the world. However, I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface with this book and there is so much potential for book 2.
I can’t wait to see where the author takes us next!
September 12, 2025
This book was an experience that stayed with me long after I finished it. Caris was such a refreshing main character, finally a tall woman, strong, skilled, but also insecure and still growing. She made mistakes, but that only made her feel real. Captain Tor completely stole my heart with his loyalty, and Cillian brought light and warmth like the golden retriever energy he carried. The writing felt rich and detailed without ever being overwhelming, author’s style carried both beauty and grit, and so much emotion in every chapter. The magic system was intriguing and layered, revealed slowly so it felt like we were learning alongside Caris, and that kept me curious the whole way through. The pacing was fast and sharp. For a debut, this felt powerful, polished, and unforgettable. Thank you so much to the author and Haus of Fables for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
October 1, 2025
Just wow!
Really, really enjoyed this book and I'm just not giving it five stars because it's the first one and I'm waiting for a big bang in the second one, given the way this one ends.
Caris is a powerful FMC, with a strong will and a sad and unknown past, a great fighter and a sensitive and kind nature in a way. Then, we have Atlas and Torgrin, two soldiers that end up becoming her friends, that will teach her that not everything can be bad. Whilst Cillian is a sweet man that just teaches her that she can open her heart.
The Cursed ones, people with magic - wait a minute, women, of course - are being imprisoned and tortured by a cult of men that feel threatened by them, of course - and look at that, it almost looks like our own medieval times.
It's a quick narrative, pretty simple but with it's own intricacies and a twist in the end that just left me "what???"
When is the second one coming out?!!
Really, really enjoyed this book and I'm just not giving it five stars because it's the first one and I'm waiting for a big bang in the second one, given the way this one ends.
Caris is a powerful FMC, with a strong will and a sad and unknown past, a great fighter and a sensitive and kind nature in a way. Then, we have Atlas and Torgrin, two soldiers that end up becoming her friends, that will teach her that not everything can be bad. Whilst Cillian is a sweet man that just teaches her that she can open her heart.
The Cursed ones, people with magic - wait a minute, women, of course - are being imprisoned and tortured by a cult of men that feel threatened by them, of course - and look at that, it almost looks like our own medieval times.
It's a quick narrative, pretty simple but with it's own intricacies and a twist in the end that just left me "what???"
When is the second one coming out?!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews