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The Cursed Duet #1
Over the River
Fate might be written in the stars, but do we hold the pen?
Amelie Bloch always dreamed her escape would bea crown, not a curse. But when she's banished to the Whispering Forest—known as a place haunted by Lost Souls and dark, sinister magic—she finds herself drawn into a world far more dangerous than the one she left behind.
Guided by the glowing winds and shadowed magic of the Forest, Amelie stumbles upon a spirited cottage and a waiting Witch. As Amelie’s dormant power awakens, so too does the truth behind her lineage and an ancient fate.
While some destinies are written in the stars.
Others are forged in the fire.
Amelie Bloch always dreamed her escape would bea crown, not a curse. But when she's banished to the Whispering Forest—known as a place haunted by Lost Souls and dark, sinister magic—she finds herself drawn into a world far more dangerous than the one she left behind.
Guided by the glowing winds and shadowed magic of the Forest, Amelie stumbles upon a spirited cottage and a waiting Witch. As Amelie’s dormant power awakens, so too does the truth behind her lineage and an ancient fate.
While some destinies are written in the stars.
Others are forged in the fire.
- GenresFantasy RomanceFantasy
398 pages, ebook
Published August 1, 2025
40 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Taylor Hornig
1 book34 followersTaylor Hornig is a wife, mom to a crazy baby boy, Jaiden and dog mom to a sweet black lab, Hazie. Her love for stories began with Amelia Bedelia and Judy Moody, eventually evolving into fantasy and romance novels. When she’s not writing or reading with a coffee in hand, Taylor enjoys music, golfing, and (almost always) winning at Overcooked! against her husband. Summers are spent lakeside with family—the people who inspire everything she does and mean the world to her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 26, 2025
I don’t usually cry while reading, but Over the River really got me. It’s such a beautiful and emotional story. I loved every page! Taylor Hornig did an amazing job. The bond between Amelie and Kiaran was so strong and genuine. I didn’t know I’d get this attached... now I’m just waiting for the second book!
July 31, 2025
With pub day happening this week. It's time for me to step out of the reviews and let the readers have this space all to themselves. <3
Please be cautious going into this book and read the trigger warnings!
Thank you for reading my story.
Please be cautious going into this book and read the trigger warnings!
Thank you for reading my story.
June 13, 2025
I was lucky enough to have the pleasure of editing Over the River and honestly?! One of the best books I’ve read to date.
The fact that this is a debut novel is absolutely crazy. The way that Taylor writes healing from trauma is phenomenal and pure emotion. I cried, I laughed, I fell in love.
If you’re looking for your next fantasy fairytale read (with some spice) this is the one for you.
The fact that this is a debut novel is absolutely crazy. The way that Taylor writes healing from trauma is phenomenal and pure emotion. I cried, I laughed, I fell in love.
If you’re looking for your next fantasy fairytale read (with some spice) this is the one for you.
July 6, 2025
This book had me crying, laughing, and, by the end, SCREAMING for book #2! Fated mates, spice, magic… what else could a girl ask for?
July 15, 2025
3.75⭐️
I received this as an ARC and this book was so fun! Very whimsical, magical vibes. It felt like a fairytale book for my adult self. I enjoyed the plot and the mysterious components of this house and our MMC who lives in it. It felt a little slow at times in the middle, but the end really picks up when everything starts to unfold!
(Readers definitely need to check the trigger warnings before going in to this)
I received this as an ARC and this book was so fun! Very whimsical, magical vibes. It felt like a fairytale book for my adult self. I enjoyed the plot and the mysterious components of this house and our MMC who lives in it. It felt a little slow at times in the middle, but the end really picks up when everything starts to unfold!
(Readers definitely need to check the trigger warnings before going in to this)
July 10, 2025
Taylor wrote a beautiful love story with just enough twists and turns to keep you wanting more. I couldn't put this down and I definitely can't wait to see what's next!
June 20, 2025
I had the PRIVILEGE of beta reading this book and was blown away with the world that taylor has created! This book was such a breath of fresh air.
Over The River is best described as a spicy fairytale. It’s like if Goldilocks stumbled upon a cottage being haunted by a handsome, broody witch. He is grumpy and she is his sunshine.
There are some heavy concepts in this book but they are handled with such care and written so beautifully. Amelie is a character who has lived through so much but she is a genuine, stubborn, ray of sunshine with a child-like imagination that makes her a beacon of hope for pretty much every character in this story. Her optimism is contagious.
And don’t. Even. Get. Me. Started. On. The FMC….
Taylor has managed to write a broody, sarcastic, “touch her and you die” MMC with FEELINGS. He is sensitive in the most humanistic way which is something that I feel is underrepresented in books these days especially in male characters. The way that these two characters heal each other while also navigating an INSANE plot line…. It’s beautifully chaotic and magical and everything this genre needs.
Over The River is best described as a spicy fairytale. It’s like if Goldilocks stumbled upon a cottage being haunted by a handsome, broody witch. He is grumpy and she is his sunshine.
There are some heavy concepts in this book but they are handled with such care and written so beautifully. Amelie is a character who has lived through so much but she is a genuine, stubborn, ray of sunshine with a child-like imagination that makes her a beacon of hope for pretty much every character in this story. Her optimism is contagious.
And don’t. Even. Get. Me. Started. On. The FMC….
Taylor has managed to write a broody, sarcastic, “touch her and you die” MMC with FEELINGS. He is sensitive in the most humanistic way which is something that I feel is underrepresented in books these days especially in male characters. The way that these two characters heal each other while also navigating an INSANE plot line…. It’s beautifully chaotic and magical and everything this genre needs.
September 22, 2025
I was super excited when I received this ARC. I was even more excited to read it because it is from a local author!! I would have totally devoured this story faster, most likely in a day, if only my boys would have just let me read 😂 Seriously though!
Okay, wow! This is from a debut author!?! She could have fooled me and I read a TON of fantasy so that says something! I even told my husband that I haven't read anything like this in a fantasy book before. 🤯
Amelie is one of my new favorite FMCs and I need book two like yesterday! Kiaran was a very interesting MMC. I also adored Amelie's two youngest brothers, Hanzel and Taldin. Wren is understandably the moody oldest of the three brothers, who has "the man of the house" weight on his shoulders. The Forest inhabitants were super interesting characters and the cottage was awesome!
Amelie is a peasant girl who is struggling to get by and provide for her brothers while her mom is bed ridden. Having lost her father before her youngest sibling was born she had to learn how to do the best she could with what she had, which isn't that much. The village she lives in is not a nice place, the Lord is greedy and corrupt and so are most of his guards. Oh, and don't forget that there is a magic forest that people are warned to stay out of.
This story is about many things.
-A survivor who learns how to take back her power, her life, and her future. -Dreaming and learning to find and have faith.
-Learning to trust in who you are and so so much more.
To be honest I could go on and on but really you just need to read it. There are some touchy scenes that can be tough to read but Amelie's story is so much more than those tough sections. She is a fighter and grows into one amazing character!
I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy come August so I can share it with those who I know will love this story as much as I do!
Truly, wonderfully done Taylor! I cannot wait to read more from you!
Okay, wow! This is from a debut author!?! She could have fooled me and I read a TON of fantasy so that says something! I even told my husband that I haven't read anything like this in a fantasy book before. 🤯
Amelie is one of my new favorite FMCs and I need book two like yesterday! Kiaran was a very interesting MMC. I also adored Amelie's two youngest brothers, Hanzel and Taldin. Wren is understandably the moody oldest of the three brothers, who has "the man of the house" weight on his shoulders. The Forest inhabitants were super interesting characters and the cottage was awesome!
Amelie is a peasant girl who is struggling to get by and provide for her brothers while her mom is bed ridden. Having lost her father before her youngest sibling was born she had to learn how to do the best she could with what she had, which isn't that much. The village she lives in is not a nice place, the Lord is greedy and corrupt and so are most of his guards. Oh, and don't forget that there is a magic forest that people are warned to stay out of.
This story is about many things.
-A survivor who learns how to take back her power, her life, and her future. -Dreaming and learning to find and have faith.
-Learning to trust in who you are and so so much more.
To be honest I could go on and on but really you just need to read it. There are some touchy scenes that can be tough to read but Amelie's story is so much more than those tough sections. She is a fighter and grows into one amazing character!
I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy come August so I can share it with those who I know will love this story as much as I do!
Truly, wonderfully done Taylor! I cannot wait to read more from you!
June 12, 2025
I was a beta reader for this book and it exceeded my expectations! The story is intricate but easy to follow and you quickly get to know and love the characters. The magic in this world is familiar but different to other romantasies I’ve read, which kept me hooked. At no point was I able to figure out what would happen in this story and each chapter was a new surprise. I absolutely adore this story and I can’t wait to reread it once it’s finally published. Also the cliffhanger at the end leaves me so eager for the next book. I can’t wait to see where this story goes and read future novels from Taylor Hornig!
June 12, 2025
I was a beta reader for this book and wow. Just… wow. "Over the River" completely swept me off my feet. This book was an absolute joy to read, and I found myself completely unable to put it down.
From the captivating plot to the incredibly well-developed characters, everything about "Over the River" just worked. The romance was undeniably steamy and had me rooting for the protagonists with every turn of the page. It's the kind of love story that makes you feel deeply invested and leaves you with a warm glow long after you've finished reading. I cant wait for book #2!
From the captivating plot to the incredibly well-developed characters, everything about "Over the River" just worked. The romance was undeniably steamy and had me rooting for the protagonists with every turn of the page. It's the kind of love story that makes you feel deeply invested and leaves you with a warm glow long after you've finished reading. I cant wait for book #2!
July 27, 2025
I just finished Over the River and I’m not okay. This debut absolutely delivered, from the emotionally gripping love story to the way the MFC takes her life back with so much raw strength.
Every character’s fate felt like it was crashing into the next, in the best way. The way everything was intertwined had me hooked, and that CLIFFHANGER?? I need book two yesterday.
If you’re into dark, mystical, fate-driven fantasy with deep emotional payoff and a strong female lead reclaiming her power, you need this book.
So grateful I got to be an ARC reader for this one. Official release is August 1 so get ready to dive in. You won’t want to come back up.
Every character’s fate felt like it was crashing into the next, in the best way. The way everything was intertwined had me hooked, and that CLIFFHANGER?? I need book two yesterday.
If you’re into dark, mystical, fate-driven fantasy with deep emotional payoff and a strong female lead reclaiming her power, you need this book.
So grateful I got to be an ARC reader for this one. Official release is August 1 so get ready to dive in. You won’t want to come back up.
July 27, 2025
WHOAAAA - the chokehold this book had on me! 😱 The fact that this book is Taylor’s debut novel is wild! It had me laughing, crying, just all of the emotions. And that cliffhanger at the end - I need book 2 like now!
I absolutely loved the FMC, Amelie. She is pure Sunshine. She is funny, loving, so stubborn 😉, but most importantly - she is a survivor. She has so much courage and strength. I was rooting for her from page 1.
And don’t get me started on Kiaran 🥵 He is the definition of your broody, “touch her and you die” MMC - But he is also so sensitive. The way he and Amelie heal each other and with each other 🥹.
If you’re looking for your next spicy fairytale fantasy read, check out Over the River! You won’t be disappointed
I absolutely loved the FMC, Amelie. She is pure Sunshine. She is funny, loving, so stubborn 😉, but most importantly - she is a survivor. She has so much courage and strength. I was rooting for her from page 1.
And don’t get me started on Kiaran 🥵 He is the definition of your broody, “touch her and you die” MMC - But he is also so sensitive. The way he and Amelie heal each other and with each other 🥹.
If you’re looking for your next spicy fairytale fantasy read, check out Over the River! You won’t be disappointed
July 28, 2025
I do not even know where to start with this story, it was so unique and the magic system drew you in wanting to know more!
I love the character development of both the FMC and the MMC! it is nice to see emotion depth to a MMC and see him be vulnerable but also he would burn the world down with her!
Now can we talk about that Cliff hanger - I am not ok - nor will I ever be
My heart was taken out, grated and thrown on a sorrow Pizza!
I am broken
Can not wait until book 2 comes out!!
I love the character development of both the FMC and the MMC! it is nice to see emotion depth to a MMC and see him be vulnerable but also he would burn the world down with her!
Now can we talk about that Cliff hanger - I am not ok - nor will I ever be
My heart was taken out, grated and thrown on a sorrow Pizza!
I am broken
Can not wait until book 2 comes out!!
July 12, 2025
First let me start by saying I truly can't believe that this is Taylor's first book!! Truly astounding!
This story is so well written. The imagery allowed me to see the entire story so clearly without even trying and I absolutely love that in a book!
She also did a really good job of getting the reader to want to be an ally to the FMC, Amelie, from the very first chapter
"Then I'd wake up and do it all over again.
Wake up, suffer. Dream, conquer.
Someday, I will find sanctuary."
Amelie's background and history are divulged in a way that satisfies perfectly. I just wanted to wrap her in a big hug from the very beginning and protect her with everything in me.
The MMC, Kiaran, well...
"No one will ever touch you like that again, I promise!"
Enough said 😍
I read this book in one sitting, I could not put it down! The story grabbed my heart and never let go! The ending left off in such a way that will have me aching for the next book so I can jump back into the Forrest with my friends!
Very, very well done!!!
This story is so well written. The imagery allowed me to see the entire story so clearly without even trying and I absolutely love that in a book!
She also did a really good job of getting the reader to want to be an ally to the FMC, Amelie, from the very first chapter
"Then I'd wake up and do it all over again.
Wake up, suffer. Dream, conquer.
Someday, I will find sanctuary."
Amelie's background and history are divulged in a way that satisfies perfectly. I just wanted to wrap her in a big hug from the very beginning and protect her with everything in me.
The MMC, Kiaran, well...
"No one will ever touch you like that again, I promise!"
Enough said 😍
I read this book in one sitting, I could not put it down! The story grabbed my heart and never let go! The ending left off in such a way that will have me aching for the next book so I can jump back into the Forrest with my friends!
Very, very well done!!!
July 17, 2025
I received a free arc in exchange for me to give an honest review.
I think I read this book in one day. Where do I start with this book? First off: based on the epilogue of this book, this book had better have a book two! Kiaran’s heartbreak at the end of the book had me fighting back tears. Also, I hate his whole family. Why did his mom force him to forget her!!! It’s not fair and my emotions were not prepared.
Now let’s talk about my girl, Amelie. From the very beginning of the book, I liked her. She had such an amazing amount of courage and strength, and that doesn’t even have anything to do with her faith in her alchemy abilities later on in the book. The pain she went through (and all because of the high priestess) was awful to read about in the best way.
The one quote I made sure to highlight because of my thought that followed:
“My blood heated at the sight of her in pain at the hands of someone else.” This is what Kiaran thought when he first saw her bruises. On of the reasons this made me laugh is because my first thought was “But you’d be fine if she was in pain at your hands?” I don’t know, it just made me laugh a lot.
I will say, I didn’t fully understand some of this book, but I’m hoping it’s just because she’s leaving some things to be revealed in book two.
I think I read this book in one day. Where do I start with this book? First off: based on the epilogue of this book, this book had better have a book two! Kiaran’s heartbreak at the end of the book had me fighting back tears. Also, I hate his whole family. Why did his mom force him to forget her!!! It’s not fair and my emotions were not prepared.
Now let’s talk about my girl, Amelie. From the very beginning of the book, I liked her. She had such an amazing amount of courage and strength, and that doesn’t even have anything to do with her faith in her alchemy abilities later on in the book. The pain she went through (and all because of the high priestess) was awful to read about in the best way.
The one quote I made sure to highlight because of my thought that followed:
“My blood heated at the sight of her in pain at the hands of someone else.” This is what Kiaran thought when he first saw her bruises. On of the reasons this made me laugh is because my first thought was “But you’d be fine if she was in pain at your hands?” I don’t know, it just made me laugh a lot.
I will say, I didn’t fully understand some of this book, but I’m hoping it’s just because she’s leaving some things to be revealed in book two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 30, 2025
3.25⭐️
Dark fairytale fantasy vibes, and a touch of whimsical in the form of a magical sentient cottage in the forest and other magical beings (dwarves, small fairies, etc).
Heavy topics to start the book (check the TW page before), but then you go on a healing journey with Amelie (FMC) and watch her bloom back to life after everything she has endured and come into her power. I loved her relationship with Fern (the sentient cottage) and the happiness their interactions brought her. I loved Amelie reclaiming her body autonomy, and Kiaran (MMC) was so respectful, kind, and gentle with her as well (we love that in a man👏🏼). Kiaran also had to endure a lot, and I appreciated having his POV to understand his character better. Oof, but that poor man at the end. :(
I’m not the biggest nickname fan when it’s repetitive (and I’m picky with nicknames in general which knocked this down on my rating scale), but I know some people love that so to each their own! There were some other aspects of this story that didn’t work for me, but I appear to be in the unpopular camp since majority of reviews really loved it.
Thank you to the author for gifting this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review! 💕
Dark fairytale fantasy vibes, and a touch of whimsical in the form of a magical sentient cottage in the forest and other magical beings (dwarves, small fairies, etc).
Heavy topics to start the book (check the TW page before), but then you go on a healing journey with Amelie (FMC) and watch her bloom back to life after everything she has endured and come into her power. I loved her relationship with Fern (the sentient cottage) and the happiness their interactions brought her. I loved Amelie reclaiming her body autonomy, and Kiaran (MMC) was so respectful, kind, and gentle with her as well (we love that in a man👏🏼). Kiaran also had to endure a lot, and I appreciated having his POV to understand his character better. Oof, but that poor man at the end. :(
I’m not the biggest nickname fan when it’s repetitive (and I’m picky with nicknames in general which knocked this down on my rating scale), but I know some people love that so to each their own! There were some other aspects of this story that didn’t work for me, but I appear to be in the unpopular camp since majority of reviews really loved it.
Thank you to the author for gifting this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review! 💕
July 30, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
I got to beta read this debut and it blew me away!
It’s giving serious Hansel and Gretel energy, but make it moodier and way more magical.
The house? Basically a character.
The MMC? Broody, morally gray, and impossible not to love.
The FMC? Strong and badass.
The vibe? Whimsical with just the right amount of eerie.
And the emotional depth? So well done without ever feeling heavy.
I was completely invested in these characters. I rooted for them through every twist and turn and loved watching them grow. Their chemistry felt so natural and compelling. I genuinely enjoyed every moment of their relationship unfolding.
I still can’t believe this is Taylor Hornig’s first book! The world building, the emotion, the characters… all so good. If you’re into cozy fantasy with a dark twist, this one’s a must read!
Already obsessed. Counting the days until book two!
I got to beta read this debut and it blew me away!
It’s giving serious Hansel and Gretel energy, but make it moodier and way more magical.
The house? Basically a character.
The MMC? Broody, morally gray, and impossible not to love.
The FMC? Strong and badass.
The vibe? Whimsical with just the right amount of eerie.
And the emotional depth? So well done without ever feeling heavy.
I was completely invested in these characters. I rooted for them through every twist and turn and loved watching them grow. Their chemistry felt so natural and compelling. I genuinely enjoyed every moment of their relationship unfolding.
I still can’t believe this is Taylor Hornig’s first book! The world building, the emotion, the characters… all so good. If you’re into cozy fantasy with a dark twist, this one’s a must read!
Already obsessed. Counting the days until book two!
August 2, 2025
literally had to make a goodreads just to give this book 5 stars
I am an AVID romantasy reader. I own a romance bookstore and I have seen everything you could think of pass through our inventory. Very rarely do I find a book that feels like it isn’t trying to fit the mould of every other top selling romantasy title out there and see an author take a concept that is very clearly important to them and keep it at the focal point of their story telling. Don’t get me wrong.. there’s romance, there’s magic, there’s plot, there’s spice. But what this book did was somehow take a magical spin on so many tragic fantasy stories and make it feel real and relevant. This book was so tastefully written and not only will we be selling it in our store, I’ll be recommending it to literally all of my friends! I can’t wait for book 2!!
I am an AVID romantasy reader. I own a romance bookstore and I have seen everything you could think of pass through our inventory. Very rarely do I find a book that feels like it isn’t trying to fit the mould of every other top selling romantasy title out there and see an author take a concept that is very clearly important to them and keep it at the focal point of their story telling. Don’t get me wrong.. there’s romance, there’s magic, there’s plot, there’s spice. But what this book did was somehow take a magical spin on so many tragic fantasy stories and make it feel real and relevant. This book was so tastefully written and not only will we be selling it in our store, I’ll be recommending it to literally all of my friends! I can’t wait for book 2!!
August 6, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars!
Chilling beginning of the FMC trying to provide for her younger brothers and survive the guards who are known to abuse and rape women in her village. There are trigger warnings in the beginning because this is a story about healing. An unfortunate event forces the FMC to get sent away to a magical cottage in an enchanted forest where she meets a beautiful 300 year old male witch who is spellbound to the cottage. She starts practicing alchemy, and that’s when the story starts to unravel with a big twist at the end.
I can’t believe this is Taylor’s debut novel because she did such a phenomenal job explaining the magic system and the character’s lineage. I loved her writing style too and can’t wait for book 2!!
* Forced proximity
* Sunshine & grumpy
* Fated mates
* Witches, fairies
* Dual POV
* Semi cozy fantasy
Thank you for this arc <3
Chilling beginning of the FMC trying to provide for her younger brothers and survive the guards who are known to abuse and rape women in her village. There are trigger warnings in the beginning because this is a story about healing. An unfortunate event forces the FMC to get sent away to a magical cottage in an enchanted forest where she meets a beautiful 300 year old male witch who is spellbound to the cottage. She starts practicing alchemy, and that’s when the story starts to unravel with a big twist at the end.
I can’t believe this is Taylor’s debut novel because she did such a phenomenal job explaining the magic system and the character’s lineage. I loved her writing style too and can’t wait for book 2!!
* Forced proximity
* Sunshine & grumpy
* Fated mates
* Witches, fairies
* Dual POV
* Semi cozy fantasy
Thank you for this arc <3
September 4, 2025
You want a story full of MAGIC & LOVE?!
Taylor's got you covered!
Wow... this story is one for the times, it's filled with emotion, passion, unique characters and an adventure you would have NEVER seen! It's so gripping, and the way this author writes is absolutely beautiful!!
I'm so honored to have beta read this story AND ARC read the finalize version. The way this author works with her story and characters, you can clearly see her passion and effort. You'll be thanking her personally after you've read Over the River because it's life changing.
Kiaran is... FREAKING GORGEOUS. He's like a possessive alpha male mixed with golden retriever vibes?! He's sweet and dominating and I cannot handle it-I'm here for it.
Please, please, do yourself a favor and grab a copy of it TODAY.
Taylor's got you covered!
Wow... this story is one for the times, it's filled with emotion, passion, unique characters and an adventure you would have NEVER seen! It's so gripping, and the way this author writes is absolutely beautiful!!
I'm so honored to have beta read this story AND ARC read the finalize version. The way this author works with her story and characters, you can clearly see her passion and effort. You'll be thanking her personally after you've read Over the River because it's life changing.
Kiaran is... FREAKING GORGEOUS. He's like a possessive alpha male mixed with golden retriever vibes?! He's sweet and dominating and I cannot handle it-I'm here for it.
Please, please, do yourself a favor and grab a copy of it TODAY.
August 11, 2025
Holy.crap.
This is easily the best book I’ve read this month. This book got me so emotionally attached to the characters. The beginning was hard to read, but still so intriguing. It was so amazing to go along this fantastic journey with the characters. You get so attached to the characters that their adventures now feel like your adventures. This book was so well written, and had outstanding word choice. From the way that she drew you in, to the ending of the book, I was so in love with all of it. The ending has you screaming, crying, throwing up, all of it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good fairytale romance!
This is easily the best book I’ve read this month. This book got me so emotionally attached to the characters. The beginning was hard to read, but still so intriguing. It was so amazing to go along this fantastic journey with the characters. You get so attached to the characters that their adventures now feel like your adventures. This book was so well written, and had outstanding word choice. From the way that she drew you in, to the ending of the book, I was so in love with all of it. The ending has you screaming, crying, throwing up, all of it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good fairytale romance!
August 6, 2025
What a book!
Make sure to check your trigger warnings as some of the themes is this book are quite heavy. That being said those themes are handled with such grace, and written about so beautifully that you can’t help but sob.
Taylor had me sobbing quite regularly during this book, the descriptions, the emotions felt during some of the most heart wrenching scenes.
But one thing I will say is… TAYLOR WHAT IS THAT ENDING???
Loved it- highly recommend to a friend, instantly has become one of my automatic buy authors.
♾️ ⭐️
Make sure to check your trigger warnings as some of the themes is this book are quite heavy. That being said those themes are handled with such grace, and written about so beautifully that you can’t help but sob.
Taylor had me sobbing quite regularly during this book, the descriptions, the emotions felt during some of the most heart wrenching scenes.
But one thing I will say is… TAYLOR WHAT IS THAT ENDING???
Loved it- highly recommend to a friend, instantly has become one of my automatic buy authors.
♾️ ⭐️
July 30, 2025
I devoured this book in a single day—I simply couldn’t put it down. Taylor has crafted a refreshingly original and captivating Fantasy Romance that stands apart from anything I’ve read before. I’m already counting down the days for book two.
This story leans into insta-love, which I personally loved (give me all the swoon!), though I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Still, the chemistry was undeniable and beautifully written.
Amelie is such a unique FMC—part scrappy and worn, part gentle and sweet. She felt real, layered, and deeply human. And then there’s Kiaran…who might give off major “shadow daddy” vibes at first, but underneath that broody exterior is the softest cinnamon roll of a man.
But my favorite part? The house. The dynamic between Amelie, Kiaran, and the house itself is enchanting and unexpectedly tender. The bond between Amelie and Kiaran isn’t conventional, but it’s genuine, emotional, and honestly pretty healing. Their connection runs deep—almost like a trauma bond—but it’s handled with nuance and care.
That said, please check the trigger warnings before diving in. This book explores some heavy emotional territory, but if you’re ready for a fantasy romance that’s raw, sweet, and totally immersive, this one’s a must-read
Thank you Taylor for allowing me to read this book.
Review from an ARC reader.
This story leans into insta-love, which I personally loved (give me all the swoon!), though I know it’s not everyone’s cup of tea. Still, the chemistry was undeniable and beautifully written.
Amelie is such a unique FMC—part scrappy and worn, part gentle and sweet. She felt real, layered, and deeply human. And then there’s Kiaran…who might give off major “shadow daddy” vibes at first, but underneath that broody exterior is the softest cinnamon roll of a man.
But my favorite part? The house. The dynamic between Amelie, Kiaran, and the house itself is enchanting and unexpectedly tender. The bond between Amelie and Kiaran isn’t conventional, but it’s genuine, emotional, and honestly pretty healing. Their connection runs deep—almost like a trauma bond—but it’s handled with nuance and care.
That said, please check the trigger warnings before diving in. This book explores some heavy emotional territory, but if you’re ready for a fantasy romance that’s raw, sweet, and totally immersive, this one’s a must-read
Thank you Taylor for allowing me to read this book.
Review from an ARC reader.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2025
I had the absolute privilege of being a beta reader for this book. I’m not a huge fantasy reader, but love my share of romance so I said I would give it a try. It blew away my expectations and honestly I am dying to read book #2. The twists and turns and how everything is so connected still blows my mind. Taylor is going to go far so keep your eyes on any of her upcoming books. Obsessed.
August 17, 2025
If I didn't go into this book knowing it was by a debut author, I 1000% would've never believed it was written by one. This book was written so beautifully, and I immediately fell in love with the world, the characters, all of it. And don't even get me started on the ending!!! I fear I need book two ASAP! Amelie and Kiaran have my heart, and I can't wait to continue reading their story!
July 25, 2025
Wow, I am still trying to digest what happened in the epilogue.
Great mix of magic, romance, and a girl finding out who she is, and coming back from devastation.
Please tell me there is a book 2! For a debut novel she is going to write some amazing books.
Great mix of magic, romance, and a girl finding out who she is, and coming back from devastation.
Please tell me there is a book 2! For a debut novel she is going to write some amazing books.
August 24, 2025
Absolutely loved this book. You are talented Taylor! I already want the next one yesterday! This is a book that makes you not want to read another one until the next one comes out. Truly one of the best books I have read!
September 29, 2025
I wasn’t going to write a review but the farther away I got from this book ending the more pissed I became. OMG I need the second book like… now. I have actually stared at the wall for the past 20 minutes waiting for it to magically appear. Should I do like Amelie and manifest?
September 21, 2025
idk who you thought gave you this level of audacity but fuck that was unnecessary
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