What do you think?
Rate this book
That Single Spark: A Novel
Two exes, one quest, and a story that refuses to let them go.
Orion thought he understood the rules of magic. He was wrong.
The enchanted book that once dictated his life has rewritten itself—this time, into an adventure novel. And the magical map is finally complete, leading him and Ellison deep into an enchanted forest in search of the long-lost object of legend. The prophecy claims it must be them who find it. The book acts as if their fate is already written.
But magic is unpredictable, and as the forest twists reality around them, Ellison’s power begins to unravel into something strange and uncontrollable. As Orion fights to win back the trust he shattered, the forest offers him countless chances to prove his devotion to her. But he can’t tell if it’s offering him redemption … or toying with them both.
As they navigate a tale not of their making, two questions Who is this story really about? And how does it end?
Orion thought he understood the rules of magic. He was wrong.
The enchanted book that once dictated his life has rewritten itself—this time, into an adventure novel. And the magical map is finally complete, leading him and Ellison deep into an enchanted forest in search of the long-lost object of legend. The prophecy claims it must be them who find it. The book acts as if their fate is already written.
But magic is unpredictable, and as the forest twists reality around them, Ellison’s power begins to unravel into something strange and uncontrollable. As Orion fights to win back the trust he shattered, the forest offers him countless chances to prove his devotion to her. But he can’t tell if it’s offering him redemption … or toying with them both.
As they navigate a tale not of their making, two questions Who is this story really about? And how does it end?
461 pages, Paperback
Published June 15, 2025
7 people want to read
About the author
Tessa Alexandra
4 books50 followersTessa lives nestled among Utah’s stunning mountains with her husband and three children. She prefers admiring the peaks with a warm mug of coffee over skiing or hiking them, but she’s been known to do both on occasion.
For money, she works part-time as an engineering consultant. For joy, she stays home with her kids. And in every stolen moment between the two, she writes.
Tessa believes the best stories take you somewhere far and strange, and leave you changed when you return. Her books focus on real characters in unreal situations—for readers who crave escape, big feelings, and hard-earned happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s likely feeding her perpetually hungry children, juggling their absurdly busy schedules, or crafting an excuse to open a bottle of wine.
For sneak peeks at future works and access to exclusive content and offers, follow her on Instagram @tessa_alexandra_writes.
For money, she works part-time as an engineering consultant. For joy, she stays home with her kids. And in every stolen moment between the two, she writes.
Tessa believes the best stories take you somewhere far and strange, and leave you changed when you return. Her books focus on real characters in unreal situations—for readers who crave escape, big feelings, and hard-earned happy endings. When she’s not writing, she’s likely feeding her perpetually hungry children, juggling their absurdly busy schedules, or crafting an excuse to open a bottle of wine.
For sneak peeks at future works and access to exclusive content and offers, follow her on Instagram @tessa_alexandra_writes.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 29, 2025
3.5 stars. I really enjoyed the personal journey Orion went on. His characterization is not something we see enough in fictional men and it was so well done. I really understood him and his internal struggles.
My favorite character quickly became Palliver and I ate up every chapter we got. It broke up the story well, but I did want some resolution with him at the end. We are really left hanging.
The narrator changning to Orion (it was Ellison in book 1) was good and bad. Good because we really got to know Orion and bad because I forgot about El. I think dual POV would have worked better.
The entire book in the forest was a bit much for me. It got a bit repetitive and dragged at points. The journey itself was fun and kept me on my toes, but it felt like it was going on forever.
The romance is where this book really did not work for me at all. For about 75% of the book, we get them working on thier struggles after book 1 which I thought was done well. Then suddenly it just went down hill and they were so insufferable. I literally could not stand them! They suddenly had the worst communication and were so childish. I really hope that does not continue.
My favorite character quickly became Palliver and I ate up every chapter we got. It broke up the story well, but I did want some resolution with him at the end. We are really left hanging.
The narrator changning to Orion (it was Ellison in book 1) was good and bad. Good because we really got to know Orion and bad because I forgot about El. I think dual POV would have worked better.
The entire book in the forest was a bit much for me. It got a bit repetitive and dragged at points. The journey itself was fun and kept me on my toes, but it felt like it was going on forever.
The romance is where this book really did not work for me at all. For about 75% of the book, we get them working on thier struggles after book 1 which I thought was done well. Then suddenly it just went down hill and they were so insufferable. I literally could not stand them! They suddenly had the worst communication and were so childish. I really hope that does not continue.
August 8, 2025
3 stars to That Single Spark by Tessa Alexandra!
That Single Spark was one of my most anticipated reads. The ending of The Words That Breathe left me with so many unanswered questions that I was eagerly anticipating for its sequel. Yet, after finishing That Single Spark, I'm somehow left with even more unanswered questions–along with a high dose of frustration toward Ellison and Orion.
That Single Spark definitely suffers from second book syndrome. While there were moments of intrigue, I often felt less engaged and heavily frustrated with Ellison and Bray. Their constant arguments fueled by miscommunication was a chore to read. Sam was literally handing out really good advice and no one wanted to take it! Ellison's hesitant, self-conscious personality also became exhausting to read. It felt like she cried over everything: a small mistake? She cries. Hurts the team? She cries. Someone points out her flaws? She cries. Misses home? She cries. For someone my age, I didn't expect her to break down at every turn.
I was also excited to finally read from Orion's perspective, hoping to uncover more of his backstory. Instead, most of his chapters boiled down to obsessing over Ellison's safety. He coddles her constantly, as if she's not a grown woman capable of handling herself. Yes, she's inexperienced in navigating a magical forest and doesn't share the same powers as the others, but she's supposed to be a standout in her department. Let her prove it!
Still despite my gripes, I appreciated how their journey through the forest forced both characters to face their fears. There's a great moment where Ellison observes that the forest is bringing out their true natures, and that realization becomes a turning point. It strips away the layers of self-doubt and overprotection, forcing them to confront who they are without the safety nets they've clung to. In those rare moments, I caught a glimpse of the characters I had hoped to see from the start–braver, more self-aware, and willing to trust each other. I just wished we had seen this earlier in the book, as it could have shaped their growth–especially Ellison's–into something far more compelling.
That's not to say the book was without its strengths! The introduction of Sam and Cas into the storyline helped lighten the mood. Sam's humor and Cas's no-nonsense attitude brought a refreshing balance to the strain in Ellison and Orion's relationship. I especially enjoyed how they openly called out the tension between Ellison and Orion, pushing them to address their issues so they could focus on the mission. The camaraderie and willingness to protect one another made them a well-rounded team, and I truly hope to see more of them in the next book.
Palliver's side of the story was a delightful surprise! It was bittersweet to see his loneliness without Sam by his side for nearly a month. It reminded me of the times my husband and I had to spend months apart. His longing for Sam during the early days of parenthood was especially heartbreaking, and I found myself wishing Sam could return home to share those moments with him and their long-awaited bundle of joy. Moreover, Palliver's research into the missing key also revealed just how much the Keepers have been hiding, leading me to wonder what will unfold in the next book–and, if a betrayal does come, how deeply it will shatter Ellison's trust in the Master Keepers and the others.
I’m looking forward to the final book in this trilogy! I hope to see real growth in Ellison and Orion, as well as how they ultimately put an end to the occurrence of the voids in the cities.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for giving me an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
That Single Spark was one of my most anticipated reads. The ending of The Words That Breathe left me with so many unanswered questions that I was eagerly anticipating for its sequel. Yet, after finishing That Single Spark, I'm somehow left with even more unanswered questions–along with a high dose of frustration toward Ellison and Orion.
That Single Spark definitely suffers from second book syndrome. While there were moments of intrigue, I often felt less engaged and heavily frustrated with Ellison and Bray. Their constant arguments fueled by miscommunication was a chore to read. Sam was literally handing out really good advice and no one wanted to take it! Ellison's hesitant, self-conscious personality also became exhausting to read. It felt like she cried over everything: a small mistake? She cries. Hurts the team? She cries. Someone points out her flaws? She cries. Misses home? She cries. For someone my age, I didn't expect her to break down at every turn.
I was also excited to finally read from Orion's perspective, hoping to uncover more of his backstory. Instead, most of his chapters boiled down to obsessing over Ellison's safety. He coddles her constantly, as if she's not a grown woman capable of handling herself. Yes, she's inexperienced in navigating a magical forest and doesn't share the same powers as the others, but she's supposed to be a standout in her department. Let her prove it!
Still despite my gripes, I appreciated how their journey through the forest forced both characters to face their fears. There's a great moment where Ellison observes that the forest is bringing out their true natures, and that realization becomes a turning point. It strips away the layers of self-doubt and overprotection, forcing them to confront who they are without the safety nets they've clung to. In those rare moments, I caught a glimpse of the characters I had hoped to see from the start–braver, more self-aware, and willing to trust each other. I just wished we had seen this earlier in the book, as it could have shaped their growth–especially Ellison's–into something far more compelling.
That's not to say the book was without its strengths! The introduction of Sam and Cas into the storyline helped lighten the mood. Sam's humor and Cas's no-nonsense attitude brought a refreshing balance to the strain in Ellison and Orion's relationship. I especially enjoyed how they openly called out the tension between Ellison and Orion, pushing them to address their issues so they could focus on the mission. The camaraderie and willingness to protect one another made them a well-rounded team, and I truly hope to see more of them in the next book.
Palliver's side of the story was a delightful surprise! It was bittersweet to see his loneliness without Sam by his side for nearly a month. It reminded me of the times my husband and I had to spend months apart. His longing for Sam during the early days of parenthood was especially heartbreaking, and I found myself wishing Sam could return home to share those moments with him and their long-awaited bundle of joy. Moreover, Palliver's research into the missing key also revealed just how much the Keepers have been hiding, leading me to wonder what will unfold in the next book–and, if a betrayal does come, how deeply it will shatter Ellison's trust in the Master Keepers and the others.
I’m looking forward to the final book in this trilogy! I hope to see real growth in Ellison and Orion, as well as how they ultimately put an end to the occurrence of the voids in the cities.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for giving me an advance review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 29, 2025
I’m a huge fan of Tessa’s writing. I’ve read over 90% of the work she has released. I love her character development & imagination. The Words that Breath was my favorite book Tessa has written & I COULD NOT wait to read this one. I finished this book about a week ago & have taken my sweet time to formulate my thoughts. I have a whole word document full of notes, but have been unable to form them into a meaningful review, so this is my best effort. I feel terrible writing this review, but disingenuous reviews benefit no one.
I don’t like trilogies. The first book is usually always great & leaves you wanting more. The second is typically filler, fluff, & disappointing. The third is everything you wanted from the second, but you’re so annoyed from the unfulfilling second book that it doesn’t satisfy you the way a final book should.
That Single Spark was exactly what I typically experience with the second book of a trilogy… unsatisfying. While lots of things happened in this book, it felt like nothing progressed in Ell & Orion’s relationship. They’re still in the same unstable limbo that book one left us in. I love these characters, but the lack of relationship progression in this book was a let down.
Like I said before, I adore Tessa’s writing style, but in my opinion I think she sometimes clings to the classic plot structure (conflict, rising action, climax, ect) so rigidly that conflict feels unnatural & inorganic at times. It felt like the major argument was forced to drive the plot along. This unnatural conflict happened for me in chapter 22 as well as in one of her previous
The best part of this book is the excellent side characters. I particularly enjoyed Sam & Cas. I could have done without Palliver (I actually had to look up his name because he’s just so forgettable to me) even though he seems to be evolving into an important player in the series. I don’t know why I find him so boring & was let down by not getting more insight into what was actually going on with him.
Many, if not all, people won’t agree with this opinion, but Orion really “icked” me out toward the end of the book. I hate the word “ick” when used to describe something about the opposite sex that really just turns you off, but I have nothing else to call it. All of Orion’s emotional instability was unpalatable. I don’t know if it was how the emotions were portrayed that “icked” me or if I just can’t stand emotional men.
That all being said, Tessa is still my favorite indie author. Even though I was ultimately disappointed by the second installment, I will still be first in line to read the third. I would have preferred this series to be contained to two books, even if it resulted in 700-900 page books.
*I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. This review is honest & voluntary.*
I don’t like trilogies. The first book is usually always great & leaves you wanting more. The second is typically filler, fluff, & disappointing. The third is everything you wanted from the second, but you’re so annoyed from the unfulfilling second book that it doesn’t satisfy you the way a final book should.
That Single Spark was exactly what I typically experience with the second book of a trilogy… unsatisfying. While lots of things happened in this book, it felt like nothing progressed in Ell & Orion’s relationship. They’re still in the same unstable limbo that book one left us in. I love these characters, but the lack of relationship progression in this book was a let down.
Like I said before, I adore Tessa’s writing style, but in my opinion I think she sometimes clings to the classic plot structure (conflict, rising action, climax, ect) so rigidly that conflict feels unnatural & inorganic at times. It felt like the major argument was forced to drive the plot along. This unnatural conflict happened for me in chapter 22 as well as in one of her previous
The best part of this book is the excellent side characters. I particularly enjoyed Sam & Cas. I could have done without Palliver (I actually had to look up his name because he’s just so forgettable to me) even though he seems to be evolving into an important player in the series. I don’t know why I find him so boring & was let down by not getting more insight into what was actually going on with him.
Many, if not all, people won’t agree with this opinion, but Orion really “icked” me out toward the end of the book. I hate the word “ick” when used to describe something about the opposite sex that really just turns you off, but I have nothing else to call it. All of Orion’s emotional instability was unpalatable. I don’t know if it was how the emotions were portrayed that “icked” me or if I just can’t stand emotional men.
That all being said, Tessa is still my favorite indie author. Even though I was ultimately disappointed by the second installment, I will still be first in line to read the third. I would have preferred this series to be contained to two books, even if it resulted in 700-900 page books.
*I received a free advanced reader copy of this book. This review is honest & voluntary.*
August 1, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily!
I know that this is a "standalone" sequel to 'The Words That Breathe', but I think that this definitely benefits if you've read that book prior to this one. Unlike 'TWTB', there's very little world-building or explanations; we jump right into the action where the last book leaves off, and the action continues for 500+ pages. Although this is not a short book, it never once felt plodding, boring, or predictable; all of the action comes as a pleasant surprise, and feels warranted.
This book also takes place from Orion's point-of-view, which is a nice change of pace. While Elle is a wonderful character, it's nice to see the world through the cocky, yet occasionally self-doubting eyes of Orion Bray.
The cast is rounded out with Sam for comic relief and Cas for badassery, and the occasional appearances by Palliver and the Keepers to remind you of the potential consequences back at home.
I felt that this flowed a lot more smoothly than the first book, although I wouldn't have minded a little recap about how the magic system works in this universe; I admit to not being 100% sure even though I read the first book. By the time the big reveal comes at the end of the book here, even though it's been teased all throughout, it's sort of like "Oh, right… that's not a normal thing, is it?"
Overall, I'm very glad to return to this magical world where words carry as much power as weapons, and anybody has the potential to gain magic powers. Can't wait to return for (what I'm assuming is) the finale in book 3!
I know that this is a "standalone" sequel to 'The Words That Breathe', but I think that this definitely benefits if you've read that book prior to this one. Unlike 'TWTB', there's very little world-building or explanations; we jump right into the action where the last book leaves off, and the action continues for 500+ pages. Although this is not a short book, it never once felt plodding, boring, or predictable; all of the action comes as a pleasant surprise, and feels warranted.
This book also takes place from Orion's point-of-view, which is a nice change of pace. While Elle is a wonderful character, it's nice to see the world through the cocky, yet occasionally self-doubting eyes of Orion Bray.
The cast is rounded out with Sam for comic relief and Cas for badassery, and the occasional appearances by Palliver and the Keepers to remind you of the potential consequences back at home.
I felt that this flowed a lot more smoothly than the first book, although I wouldn't have minded a little recap about how the magic system works in this universe; I admit to not being 100% sure even though I read the first book. By the time the big reveal comes at the end of the book here, even though it's been teased all throughout, it's sort of like "Oh, right… that's not a normal thing, is it?"
Overall, I'm very glad to return to this magical world where words carry as much power as weapons, and anybody has the potential to gain magic powers. Can't wait to return for (what I'm assuming is) the finale in book 3!
August 5, 2025
This is the second installment in the Book of Echos series and I recommend reading them back to back. Prior to reading this book, That Single Spark, I had gone back and reread the first book, The Words that Breathe. It helped with the flow of the story and kept you immersed in the world that Tessa Alexandra builds. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In That Single Spark, our story shifts from Elle's perspective to Orion's and we get to know Cas and Sam's backgrounds a little more. They also provide voices of reason throughout the story, and often voicing the reader's thoughts on this adventure and through some of the drama.
During their journey, the group ventures through a mystical forest that presents challenges at every turn that seem to target Elle. As the story unfolds and twists and turns occur, we see Elle and Orion dancing around each other in the classic will they, won't they. However, trauma from their pasts, insecurities, and miscommunication present their own challenges on their path to healing both individually and together.
While the group's time in the forest as well as the back and forth between Elle and Orion feels drawn out at times, it is done with intention. We see the characters grow, the changes in Elle unfolding, and more questions than answers that set up the reader for what will hopefully be an epic conclusion in the third installment.
I am vested now and truly cannot wait for the third book!
In That Single Spark, our story shifts from Elle's perspective to Orion's and we get to know Cas and Sam's backgrounds a little more. They also provide voices of reason throughout the story, and often voicing the reader's thoughts on this adventure and through some of the drama.
During their journey, the group ventures through a mystical forest that presents challenges at every turn that seem to target Elle. As the story unfolds and twists and turns occur, we see Elle and Orion dancing around each other in the classic will they, won't they. However, trauma from their pasts, insecurities, and miscommunication present their own challenges on their path to healing both individually and together.
While the group's time in the forest as well as the back and forth between Elle and Orion feels drawn out at times, it is done with intention. We see the characters grow, the changes in Elle unfolding, and more questions than answers that set up the reader for what will hopefully be an epic conclusion in the third installment.
I am vested now and truly cannot wait for the third book!
November 2, 2025
I just finished book 2 and I feel like the first book introduces us to this magical world, it sets up all the characters and, through Ellison’s point of view, we get to know her personality and her past with Orion.
Everything we need for the story to unfold is there: her inner demons, her insecurities, her pain. It’s such a great book, beautifully written, and it pulls you in from the very first page.
But the second book… completely stole my heart.
It’s told from his point of view, and that changes everything: his demons, his thoughts, his inner battles. We also get more answers, more depth, and a better understanding of the story and the other characters.
We get to know Orion more intimately, and his constant fight to silence those demons because he wants something better for Ellison, and with her.
The adventures, the little twists, the moments that keep you turning the pages, everything feels so alive that you end up sinking into the story just as deeply as they wander into the forest.
And then there’s this one line that perfectly captures the essence of the second book. it made me stop and hold my breath the moment I read it:
“I'm sorry I destroyed us just as we were finding our way back to each other.”
Everything we need for the story to unfold is there: her inner demons, her insecurities, her pain. It’s such a great book, beautifully written, and it pulls you in from the very first page.
But the second book… completely stole my heart.
It’s told from his point of view, and that changes everything: his demons, his thoughts, his inner battles. We also get more answers, more depth, and a better understanding of the story and the other characters.
We get to know Orion more intimately, and his constant fight to silence those demons because he wants something better for Ellison, and with her.
The adventures, the little twists, the moments that keep you turning the pages, everything feels so alive that you end up sinking into the story just as deeply as they wander into the forest.
And then there’s this one line that perfectly captures the essence of the second book. it made me stop and hold my breath the moment I read it:
“I'm sorry I destroyed us just as we were finding our way back to each other.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2025
This is the second installment of the Book of Echos series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I definitely had to refresh myself with the first book, as when I first started reading book two, I couldn't remember exact details as to Ellison and Orion's history. It made it a little more difficult to get into, until I remembered more of those details.
I appreciated hearing more about Sam and Palliver's story in this book, as I find them fascinating characters. Ellison and Orion certainly acted like fools in love who can't figure themselves or each other out for much of the book. There were many times I was frustrated with both characters, but that is the case with characters who think they know what's best for everyone around them. There was a lot more adventure in That Single Spark than The Words That Breathe, and the ending will leave you impatiently waiting for the last book. This is one of the more unique takes on a modern fantasy world. It is reminding me a bit of Naomi Novack's Scholomance trilogy. Enjoyable, and I look forward to the last installment of this series.
I definitely had to refresh myself with the first book, as when I first started reading book two, I couldn't remember exact details as to Ellison and Orion's history. It made it a little more difficult to get into, until I remembered more of those details.
I appreciated hearing more about Sam and Palliver's story in this book, as I find them fascinating characters. Ellison and Orion certainly acted like fools in love who can't figure themselves or each other out for much of the book. There were many times I was frustrated with both characters, but that is the case with characters who think they know what's best for everyone around them. There was a lot more adventure in That Single Spark than The Words That Breathe, and the ending will leave you impatiently waiting for the last book. This is one of the more unique takes on a modern fantasy world. It is reminding me a bit of Naomi Novack's Scholomance trilogy. Enjoyable, and I look forward to the last installment of this series.
August 2, 2025
First and foremost, thank you to the author for letting me read this book as an ARC, I’m truly honoured.
I loved the first book in the Book of Echoes series, but this one fell a bit flat for me. I think it mainly comes from the switched POV, and I just don’t find Orion Bray’s head to be enjoyable to be inside - in comparison to Ellison Fable’s in the first book. I get why the decision to switch was made, but I don’t think it made the story better then it would have been from Fable’s POV.
Also, the journey in the forest just felt unnecessarily long, and I would have liked them to at least get out of said forest before the book ended, but maybe that is just me?
I’ll definitely be reading the third and final book in thes series, but mostly because I hope it will be as good or better than the first book.
I loved the first book in the Book of Echoes series, but this one fell a bit flat for me. I think it mainly comes from the switched POV, and I just don’t find Orion Bray’s head to be enjoyable to be inside - in comparison to Ellison Fable’s in the first book. I get why the decision to switch was made, but I don’t think it made the story better then it would have been from Fable’s POV.
Also, the journey in the forest just felt unnecessarily long, and I would have liked them to at least get out of said forest before the book ended, but maybe that is just me?
I’ll definitely be reading the third and final book in thes series, but mostly because I hope it will be as good or better than the first book.
July 29, 2025
Uuuugghhhh I really really wanted to love this book. I was excited for their journey, their adventure….. But for some reason I have no love for Ellison and Orion.
I liked the change in POV compared to the first book. It's not boring, the story is just I don't know…. Where is it going?? What's the point. We shall see in the third book I guess.
The relationship between the main characters is difficult. I'm not really invested.
I liked learning about Sam and his husband.
What can I say, if you love adventure/combat(?) stories, a little bit of mystery you'll probably like it. I can't seem to get into it. Buy I've read both books and I'll read the next for sure. I need to know how it ends. 🤪🤗
I liked the change in POV compared to the first book. It's not boring, the story is just I don't know…. Where is it going?? What's the point. We shall see in the third book I guess.
The relationship between the main characters is difficult. I'm not really invested.
I liked learning about Sam and his husband.
What can I say, if you love adventure/combat(?) stories, a little bit of mystery you'll probably like it. I can't seem to get into it. Buy I've read both books and I'll read the next for sure. I need to know how it ends. 🤪🤗
August 5, 2025
WOW!! Tessa Alexandra has done it again!! That Single Spark picked up right where The Words That Breathe left off, and we are immediately taken on the BEST adventure(s)! I absolutely LOVED Orion’s perspective throughout the story.
The mysterious book from before returns, now as an adventure story!? The way Alexandra makes the parallels between the two stories is AMAZING (as always), and you’ll quickly love Simon and Harper as much as you love Ellison and Orion.
There were so many fantastic reveals from and connections to TWTB that make me so excited to reread both books to try to find those clues in the first book!
I cannot recommend this book enough, and am off to reread it!
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The mysterious book from before returns, now as an adventure story!? The way Alexandra makes the parallels between the two stories is AMAZING (as always), and you’ll quickly love Simon and Harper as much as you love Ellison and Orion.
There were so many fantastic reveals from and connections to TWTB that make me so excited to reread both books to try to find those clues in the first book!
I cannot recommend this book enough, and am off to reread it!
* I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2025
Don't let my three star rating scare you away. I enjoyed this book fairly well! I enjoyed the treasure hunt-esque feel to the plot of this book. The journey through the forest, coming up against obstacle after obstacle, puzzling out what could possibly be waiting for them at the end and why the forest was affecting them the way it was, it all made for a great quest.
I appreciated the internal journey we see Orion go through while we're in the forest and it was great to see some personal development between him and Ellison. More secrets are uncovered and revealed with the Keepers and their role in everything. I'm interested to see where book three goes from here!
I appreciated the internal journey we see Orion go through while we're in the forest and it was great to see some personal development between him and Ellison. More secrets are uncovered and revealed with the Keepers and their role in everything. I'm interested to see where book three goes from here!
August 9, 2025
I loved this book so much! As always, Tessa creates characters that feel incredibly real — they definitely have their flaws, but that only made me connect with them even more.
I especially loved getting to know the characters better through Orion’s POV. The plot is packed with action, and the emotional moments are genuinely touching.
The side characters are definitely more than just that — their friendship made me laugh out loud. I love them!
I can’t wait for the release of the final book in this trilogy! 😍
I especially loved getting to know the characters better through Orion’s POV. The plot is packed with action, and the emotional moments are genuinely touching.
The side characters are definitely more than just that — their friendship made me laugh out loud. I love them!
I can’t wait for the release of the final book in this trilogy! 😍
July 1, 2025
When I read the first book, I thought the idea was unique and refreshing. A change from most books I have read. This book, I was completely captivated in the story. I wanted to know where their adventure would lead them and it was definitely an adventure! The ending I did not see that coming and so excited about what we will see in the third installment. The love stories made my heart break and later was put back together. Loved the story so much!
July 15, 2025
This was a very enjoyable sequel to The words that breathe. The magic system -still- is wholly original and I really liked the side characters Sam and Cas. And while the miscommunication between Ellison and Orion dragged a bit halfway through the book, the journey through the forest was enchanting enough (yes, pun intended….) to make me finish it with my breath in my throat. Excited to see where their road ends!
Disclaimer: I received an ARC. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
July 20, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was a solid 3.5 stars for me. Like the first book I really loved the unique magic system and this was a great sequel. The quest through a magical forest was super interesting and there were so many parts I absolutely loved! However, it definitely didn’t have that same angsty slow burn like in the first book that I was hoping for. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had also been from Ell’s POV or both POV’s instead of just Orion’s. But I’ll definitely be reading book number three!
This was a solid 3.5 stars for me. Like the first book I really loved the unique magic system and this was a great sequel. The quest through a magical forest was super interesting and there were so many parts I absolutely loved! However, it definitely didn’t have that same angsty slow burn like in the first book that I was hoping for. I think I would have enjoyed it more if it had also been from Ell’s POV or both POV’s instead of just Orion’s. But I’ll definitely be reading book number three!
August 2, 2025
3.75 stars rounded up to 4.
I was very excited to dive back into this world with Book 2, especially with how unique the fantasy world and magic system is. I really enjoyed the switch to Orion's POV this time, but did wish to have maybe a chapter or two back in Ell's POV just to be able to read her thoughts during pivotal scenes that occurred.
I enjoyed the fact that we dived right back in regarding the adventure/prophecy aspect of the story, but I felt that the pacing really seemed to slow down during the 40-60% mark of the story. I felt the beginnings of a found family trope forming between Ellison, Orion, Sam, and Cass, but I wish we got to know Sam and Cass a little more personally to really cement it.
My favorite chapters were hands down Palliver's POV. I absolutely adore him as a character and really hope we get a few more of those in Book 3. One scene in particular had me laughing out loud! Regarding the romance, I did feel that their communication and relationship were realistic regarding the events that took place in Book 1. But, they definitely went backward towards the end that really wanted me to shake some sense into both of them. I am very curious to see the conclusion and where Book 3 will take us!
*I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I was very excited to dive back into this world with Book 2, especially with how unique the fantasy world and magic system is. I really enjoyed the switch to Orion's POV this time, but did wish to have maybe a chapter or two back in Ell's POV just to be able to read her thoughts during pivotal scenes that occurred.
I enjoyed the fact that we dived right back in regarding the adventure/prophecy aspect of the story, but I felt that the pacing really seemed to slow down during the 40-60% mark of the story. I felt the beginnings of a found family trope forming between Ellison, Orion, Sam, and Cass, but I wish we got to know Sam and Cass a little more personally to really cement it.
My favorite chapters were hands down Palliver's POV. I absolutely adore him as a character and really hope we get a few more of those in Book 3. One scene in particular had me laughing out loud! Regarding the romance, I did feel that their communication and relationship were realistic regarding the events that took place in Book 1. But, they definitely went backward towards the end that really wanted me to shake some sense into both of them. I am very curious to see the conclusion and where Book 3 will take us!
*I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews