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Godsbane
Everything you know about your gods is a lie.
Born into a ruling family, Ivy Fellows is no stranger to power. In a nation devoid of magic and forced to worship the Golden Pantheon, Ivy has used her position to loudly oppose the gods, earning her enemies and a slanderous nickname. When the King dies without an heir, Ivy must take her ailing father’s place at the Ascension Vote to stop the most powerful man in Corinth from taking the throne.
Armed with weapons, wit, and secret earth magic in her veins, Ivy is ready to make the cross-country trek to the capital city, even if it means traveling with the battle-famed Captain Callan Murphy, a man with a reputation even larger than her own. But securing him as an ally, leads to more than Ivy bargained for.
A forbidden discovery of rebellion, bargains, prophecy, and destiny, culminates in an earth-shattering revelation that upends everything Ivy believes to be true. Faced with a new reality, Ivy must navigate her rapidly expanding magic and growing feelings for Callan to accomplish the impossible: kill a god and change the fate of her country, her world, and herself.
Godsbane, the first book in a planned fantasy romance duology, is perfect for fans of the descriptive prose of Crowns of Nyaxia, the vibes of The Plated Prisoner Series, the political intrigue of Game of Thrones, and the layered adventures of Throne of Glass
Born into a ruling family, Ivy Fellows is no stranger to power. In a nation devoid of magic and forced to worship the Golden Pantheon, Ivy has used her position to loudly oppose the gods, earning her enemies and a slanderous nickname. When the King dies without an heir, Ivy must take her ailing father’s place at the Ascension Vote to stop the most powerful man in Corinth from taking the throne.
Armed with weapons, wit, and secret earth magic in her veins, Ivy is ready to make the cross-country trek to the capital city, even if it means traveling with the battle-famed Captain Callan Murphy, a man with a reputation even larger than her own. But securing him as an ally, leads to more than Ivy bargained for.
A forbidden discovery of rebellion, bargains, prophecy, and destiny, culminates in an earth-shattering revelation that upends everything Ivy believes to be true. Faced with a new reality, Ivy must navigate her rapidly expanding magic and growing feelings for Callan to accomplish the impossible: kill a god and change the fate of her country, her world, and herself.
Godsbane, the first book in a planned fantasy romance duology, is perfect for fans of the descriptive prose of Crowns of Nyaxia, the vibes of The Plated Prisoner Series, the political intrigue of Game of Thrones, and the layered adventures of Throne of Glass
- GenresFantasy
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2025
36 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Richardson
1 book32 followersLindsey Richardson is a self-proclaimed book dragon and lover of all things fantasy and romance. When she doesn’t have her head buried in a book, you can find Lindsey at home with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs cheering on their beloved Tennessee Vols.
Lindsey has dedicated her professional career to making a positive impact in the world through her favorite nonprofit organization. She is also an avid supporter of the Panhellenic experience.
Contact Lindsey at www.lindseyrichardsonauthor.com
Lindsey has dedicated her professional career to making a positive impact in the world through her favorite nonprofit organization. She is also an avid supporter of the Panhellenic experience.
Contact Lindsey at www.lindseyrichardsonauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
October 10, 2025
You can find this review of Godsbane (along with some of my favourite quotes) on my blog, Heart’s Content!
A big shout out and thank you to the author for including me in her Street Team and providing me with a complimentary copy of Godsbane in exchange for an honest review!
Every book offers something unique to its readers and I think the most poignant aspect for me with regard to Godsbane was how much emotion shimmered off its pages. From the first page, the book—to me, at least—always felt like it balanced on the sharp edge between vulnerability and cold calculation. The dichotomy that exists in the positions of power, such as the Heir and the Daughter or the Captain and the Man behind it, were depicted in a contrast that was both sharp and blurred around the edges at the same time. I enjoyed watching the author keep the story dancing between these two facets constantly, before slowly merging them all together to form a crystal clear narrative that sets the stage for the next chapter of the series.
The writing in Godsbane was something that slowly, but surely, grew its vines around me and drew me straight into the world created by Richardson. There are pages upon pages of highlights I’ve made and annotations I’ve scribbled that are all in ode to the author’s writing. Much like the narrative style, the writing too dances between crisp and cool to deep and mournful. There’s both, so much time and no time at all, for everything that happens in this book. Yes, the dichotomy (my new favourite word, fyi) is present in every aspect of the book and expect to notice it only after you’ve finished reading and you sit back and think about your experience.
While the circumstances, the politics, the magic of the world are all extremely important aspects of the story, the characters and their journey occupy a central focus. So much so that I’m almost tempted to categorise the book under the style of a character-driven story; because in my eyes they had so much of a presence, that their thoughts, feelings and relationships often overshadowed everything else—and I mean this in a good way.
The internal strife, anger and ambition of the protagonist took its spot center stage and digs its claws deep into the narration of the story. Is that because the FMC is also the primary narrator, or because her struggles—especially with regard to her garnering respect deserving of her calibre and station that come so easily to men—are very relatable to the reader? I’m not sure. But either way, expect the FMC’s voice to ring clearly and with an addictive intensity in your mind.
What was interesting was how much of presence and personality the secondary characters had as well! While, yes, the presence of other characters on page is not something that lasts for too long, during the first half of the book especially, but they all find and make their own place in scene and story.
The plot of this story was nearly two-fold; on one front, the story revolves around the deeply flawed politics and secrets of the world and its characters and on the other side is the mystery wrapped connection between the protagonists. To me, the latter was so much more present on page consistently, but I do feel that the author did this one purpose. One, because it actually is an important part of the story and two because it was a wonderful tactic to have something secretly brewing underneath it all. I will say that because of the latter, when the book ends, it truly feels like a potential beginning of something amazing.
The only aspect I would say slipped through my fingers a little, was the world building. But again, there were only certain aspects to the world building that I couldn’t wholly grasp. There are nearly three directions the world building takes, one: the existence of the current world and its kingdoms, two: the inherent mysticism of the nature of the characters and three: the actual theme of the plot. It’s the last aspect that’s the most important, that I struggled a little bit to fully grasp because it happens in segments and somehow the last segment didn’t fully stick with me, which meant I missed experiencing the effect of the shocking revelations that come with it.
But this might just be a personal experience, and somehow still didn’t colour the book in any negative light as such for me. So many events in this book are so strong that the book works so well and is hard not to enjoy!
The series clearly has lots to reveal to its readers and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Four and a half stars! Happy reading! Please do check trigger warnings as always, as there are themes in this book that can be difficult for some.
A big shout out and thank you to the author for including me in her Street Team and providing me with a complimentary copy of Godsbane in exchange for an honest review!
Every book offers something unique to its readers and I think the most poignant aspect for me with regard to Godsbane was how much emotion shimmered off its pages. From the first page, the book—to me, at least—always felt like it balanced on the sharp edge between vulnerability and cold calculation. The dichotomy that exists in the positions of power, such as the Heir and the Daughter or the Captain and the Man behind it, were depicted in a contrast that was both sharp and blurred around the edges at the same time. I enjoyed watching the author keep the story dancing between these two facets constantly, before slowly merging them all together to form a crystal clear narrative that sets the stage for the next chapter of the series.
The writing in Godsbane was something that slowly, but surely, grew its vines around me and drew me straight into the world created by Richardson. There are pages upon pages of highlights I’ve made and annotations I’ve scribbled that are all in ode to the author’s writing. Much like the narrative style, the writing too dances between crisp and cool to deep and mournful. There’s both, so much time and no time at all, for everything that happens in this book. Yes, the dichotomy (my new favourite word, fyi) is present in every aspect of the book and expect to notice it only after you’ve finished reading and you sit back and think about your experience.
While the circumstances, the politics, the magic of the world are all extremely important aspects of the story, the characters and their journey occupy a central focus. So much so that I’m almost tempted to categorise the book under the style of a character-driven story; because in my eyes they had so much of a presence, that their thoughts, feelings and relationships often overshadowed everything else—and I mean this in a good way.
The internal strife, anger and ambition of the protagonist took its spot center stage and digs its claws deep into the narration of the story. Is that because the FMC is also the primary narrator, or because her struggles—especially with regard to her garnering respect deserving of her calibre and station that come so easily to men—are very relatable to the reader? I’m not sure. But either way, expect the FMC’s voice to ring clearly and with an addictive intensity in your mind.
What was interesting was how much of presence and personality the secondary characters had as well! While, yes, the presence of other characters on page is not something that lasts for too long, during the first half of the book especially, but they all find and make their own place in scene and story.
The plot of this story was nearly two-fold; on one front, the story revolves around the deeply flawed politics and secrets of the world and its characters and on the other side is the mystery wrapped connection between the protagonists. To me, the latter was so much more present on page consistently, but I do feel that the author did this one purpose. One, because it actually is an important part of the story and two because it was a wonderful tactic to have something secretly brewing underneath it all. I will say that because of the latter, when the book ends, it truly feels like a potential beginning of something amazing.
The only aspect I would say slipped through my fingers a little, was the world building. But again, there were only certain aspects to the world building that I couldn’t wholly grasp. There are nearly three directions the world building takes, one: the existence of the current world and its kingdoms, two: the inherent mysticism of the nature of the characters and three: the actual theme of the plot. It’s the last aspect that’s the most important, that I struggled a little bit to fully grasp because it happens in segments and somehow the last segment didn’t fully stick with me, which meant I missed experiencing the effect of the shocking revelations that come with it.
But this might just be a personal experience, and somehow still didn’t colour the book in any negative light as such for me. So many events in this book are so strong that the book works so well and is hard not to enjoy!
The series clearly has lots to reveal to its readers and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Four and a half stars! Happy reading! Please do check trigger warnings as always, as there are themes in this book that can be difficult for some.
October 7, 2025
Fun, fast paced debut. I really enjoyed this introduction to Lindsey Richardson's writing. I liked her spunky characters and the fascinating world she created here. She did a wonderful job of creating this world where you were quickly drawn into the magic and to the political intrigue that was a foot. She also weaves a quicker paced romance through the book that will have you smiling and kicking up your feet. I do think the pacing and the romance could have been a bit smoother in transitions, but overall,
I am intrigued to see where the next book goes.
I am intrigued to see where the next book goes.
July 26, 2025
Godsbane had me hooked from the first chapter and did not let go!! I'm ready for more Ivy and Cal!
January 10, 2026
It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed a book. A shorter fantasy book than most while still doing a good job of world and character building.
August 1, 2025
Disclaimer: this is slightly biased due to being friends with the author and having edited the book myself.
Okay, that being said, especially for a debut novel, it’s amazing. It has elements of some of the most well loved fantasy properties, calling Quicksilver, ACOTAR and Game of Thrones to mind. Well developed characters, smartly written dialogue and manages to pull you in far quicker than you’d anticipate in a book that requires a decent amount of world building.
I can’t wait for everyone to get to read this book.
Okay, that being said, especially for a debut novel, it’s amazing. It has elements of some of the most well loved fantasy properties, calling Quicksilver, ACOTAR and Game of Thrones to mind. Well developed characters, smartly written dialogue and manages to pull you in far quicker than you’d anticipate in a book that requires a decent amount of world building.
I can’t wait for everyone to get to read this book.
September 30, 2025
Let's talk about Godsbane by Lindsey Richardson.
"It's a strange feeling to walk towards your death.
What do you get when you mix full on feminine rage, a cinnamon roll MMC, magic that defies the senses, and the offbeat chance that the gods are not listening as the world crumbles around them? You get this absolute delicious morsel from Lindsey that I devoured. The plot of the story was everything I could ask for: full of epic lore, a smoldering romance, and surprises I did not see coming.
Lush with world building and a magic system that twisted and turned at every end, the story of Ivy Fellows is pushed right into the forefront of your mind. She's everything we crave in a raging FMC - pushed beyond her limits by society, due to the fact that she's deemed nothing more than her sex. Not only must she battle court politics between the realms, she's also battling her own inner demons - struggling with her secretive magic and the dreams that haunt her supposed death at the hands of dark shadows.
When she's taken on as a charge to Captain Callan Murphy - Ivy is reluctantly drawn to the man. There is something there that is pushing inside her, drawing him close, but when she learns of his own secrets - her's are thrust forward and she's stuck on whether to trust the man, or let him in. Callan is the essence of a cinnamon MMC - he's caring, broody, and would do anything for Ivy. He's devotion is that of one that would worship at the altar of a god.
"There is no part of you too dark, too poisonous for me. No piece of you that I do not want."
I treasured every word as I read it, never once wanting to put it down - being drawn into Ivy and Callan's journey, as they ventured forth to the unknowns of their future. Secrets were laid out, betrayals had, and death is saddling up, ringing it's bells. And the end...oh heads are going to roll and I'm here for it all.
Thank you to Lindsey Richardson for the ARC and for my honest and open and honest review of this book.
✨ Hidden Magic
✨ He Falls First and Hard
✨ He Trains Her
✨ Epic World Building
✨ Political Intrigue
✨ Meddlesome Gods
✨ Secret Rebellion
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ One Bed
✨ Lush Lore
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Series: Book 1 of ?
"It's a strange feeling to walk towards your death.
What do you get when you mix full on feminine rage, a cinnamon roll MMC, magic that defies the senses, and the offbeat chance that the gods are not listening as the world crumbles around them? You get this absolute delicious morsel from Lindsey that I devoured. The plot of the story was everything I could ask for: full of epic lore, a smoldering romance, and surprises I did not see coming.
Lush with world building and a magic system that twisted and turned at every end, the story of Ivy Fellows is pushed right into the forefront of your mind. She's everything we crave in a raging FMC - pushed beyond her limits by society, due to the fact that she's deemed nothing more than her sex. Not only must she battle court politics between the realms, she's also battling her own inner demons - struggling with her secretive magic and the dreams that haunt her supposed death at the hands of dark shadows.
When she's taken on as a charge to Captain Callan Murphy - Ivy is reluctantly drawn to the man. There is something there that is pushing inside her, drawing him close, but when she learns of his own secrets - her's are thrust forward and she's stuck on whether to trust the man, or let him in. Callan is the essence of a cinnamon MMC - he's caring, broody, and would do anything for Ivy. He's devotion is that of one that would worship at the altar of a god.
"There is no part of you too dark, too poisonous for me. No piece of you that I do not want."
I treasured every word as I read it, never once wanting to put it down - being drawn into Ivy and Callan's journey, as they ventured forth to the unknowns of their future. Secrets were laid out, betrayals had, and death is saddling up, ringing it's bells. And the end...oh heads are going to roll and I'm here for it all.
Thank you to Lindsey Richardson for the ARC and for my honest and open and honest review of this book.
✨ Hidden Magic
✨ He Falls First and Hard
✨ He Trains Her
✨ Epic World Building
✨ Political Intrigue
✨ Meddlesome Gods
✨ Secret Rebellion
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ One Bed
✨ Lush Lore
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥
Series: Book 1 of ?
January 11, 2026
Still mad Goodreads didn’t add a half star update. This book was GOOD. And I need more people to scream about this goodness!!!
This story follows Ivy, the heir to a realm of a large kingdom, but in this world, women are only to be seen and not heard. Thus begins our conflict where she is sent to represent her realm in an ascension vote but in doing so, ruffles the feathers of all the men going to this same vote. Our Captain sent to guard her and keep her safe on this journey is one of the most down bad men I’ve read since reading Spark of the Everflame years ago. My guy is so Luther Corbois coded, you’ll fall in love with Callan Murphy IMMEDIATELY. So many secrets and plans are revealed on this journey, your head will be spinning in the best kind of way. I would HIGHLY recommend this book! So good!
Open door scenes (not entire chapters): ch. 18, ch. 19, ch. 27
Tropes:
🖤: He’s falls first
🗡️: Female rage
🌱: Elemental magic system
💎: Political Intrigue
This story follows Ivy, the heir to a realm of a large kingdom, but in this world, women are only to be seen and not heard. Thus begins our conflict where she is sent to represent her realm in an ascension vote but in doing so, ruffles the feathers of all the men going to this same vote. Our Captain sent to guard her and keep her safe on this journey is one of the most down bad men I’ve read since reading Spark of the Everflame years ago. My guy is so Luther Corbois coded, you’ll fall in love with Callan Murphy IMMEDIATELY. So many secrets and plans are revealed on this journey, your head will be spinning in the best kind of way. I would HIGHLY recommend this book! So good!
Open door scenes (not entire chapters): ch. 18, ch. 19, ch. 27
Tropes:
🖤: He’s falls first
🗡️: Female rage
🌱: Elemental magic system
💎: Political Intrigue
September 10, 2025
I loved this!!! Gorgeous writing, lush world building, fascinating magic, and dimensional characters. The plot was really well paced and I enjoyed how the reader is along for the ride and discovery process right there with Ivy. The story kept me guessing and I liked that we were in Ivy’s POV: it kept the information level consistent through the story and made for great reveals. Homegirl really goes ~through it~ but stays true to herself. I loved how she was a badass right from the beginning and really had a take-no-shit attitude in a society full of privileged men.
🌶️3
Highly recommend!! Especially if you like: The Crowns of Nyaxia, Throne of Glass, The Sacred Stones
thank you so much to Lindsey for the eARC!
🌶️3
Highly recommend!! Especially if you like: The Crowns of Nyaxia, Throne of Glass, The Sacred Stones
thank you so much to Lindsey for the eARC!
August 9, 2025
Super grateful to receive an ARC of this book.
I was surprised this was a debut novel as it certainly reads like a more established author.
All the best Romantasy elements- we’ve got mysterious powers, mythical beasts, hidden identities, secret rebellion, a fierce FMC and of course our cinnamon role MMC. I stayed up plenty late reading this one as it was hard to put down.
While this is a planned duology there isn’t a cliffhanger ending. I almost always expect one, but it was nice not to be left hanging, especially since the book isn’t officially out for another 2 months and goddess only knows when book 2 will be here to satisfy my Cal and Ivy itch.
I was surprised this was a debut novel as it certainly reads like a more established author.
All the best Romantasy elements- we’ve got mysterious powers, mythical beasts, hidden identities, secret rebellion, a fierce FMC and of course our cinnamon role MMC. I stayed up plenty late reading this one as it was hard to put down.
While this is a planned duology there isn’t a cliffhanger ending. I almost always expect one, but it was nice not to be left hanging, especially since the book isn’t officially out for another 2 months and goddess only knows when book 2 will be here to satisfy my Cal and Ivy itch.
August 10, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy! I enjoyed the book, I just unfortunately didn’t find anything unique about it in particular. Don’t let the beginning discourage you, the writing gets more easily digestible. I was worried it would be an attempt at poetic writing the whole time but it does not. Easy to read just be aware it’s about the same as any of the other popular fantasy series out now.
August 19, 2025
**This is an ARC Review. I am not being compensated in any way for this review. It is purely my opinion on the book that was provided to me freely by the author**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
The dedication was literally "For anyone who has ever felt poisonous" .....
This is probably the BEST romantasy I have read since my Onyx Storm slump. I have read some really good ones ... don't get me wrong.... BUT Godsbane was 🤌🏻. There was plot. There was magic. There were gods. There was ROMANCE. There was epic banter. There was angst. There was flirtation. You do NOT get lost in the world that is created in the story. The FMC does NOT mess around. The MMC is strong and commanding in all the right ways. Their love wasn't toxic. Their love was soooooo good. He truly, deeply loves her. She loves him too and grapples with her fate vs. her love for him, knowing that her fate leaves no room for his happy ending with her. (That she thinks)
The plot twist of her background in the end was 👏🏻
I need more Cal and Ivy. I need more RIGHT MEOW!!
This is available for preorder now. It doesn't release until October 7. I can't wait to buy a physical copy of this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
The dedication was literally "For anyone who has ever felt poisonous" .....
This is probably the BEST romantasy I have read since my Onyx Storm slump. I have read some really good ones ... don't get me wrong.... BUT Godsbane was 🤌🏻. There was plot. There was magic. There were gods. There was ROMANCE. There was epic banter. There was angst. There was flirtation. You do NOT get lost in the world that is created in the story. The FMC does NOT mess around. The MMC is strong and commanding in all the right ways. Their love wasn't toxic. Their love was soooooo good. He truly, deeply loves her. She loves him too and grapples with her fate vs. her love for him, knowing that her fate leaves no room for his happy ending with her. (That she thinks)
The plot twist of her background in the end was 👏🏻
I need more Cal and Ivy. I need more RIGHT MEOW!!
This is available for preorder now. It doesn't release until October 7. I can't wait to buy a physical copy of this book!
August 30, 2025
I was completely captivated by this book! It is the perfect blend of romance, adventure, and magic. I loved following Ivy’s journey as she discovers that she’s destined for more than she ever imagined. The world felt vivid and enchanting, the romance was wonderfully woven into the plot, and Ivy’s growth was both empowering and inspiring. A beautifully written romantasy!
September 21, 2025
3 ⭐️’s with super mixed feelings about this one! i loved the premise of the story but felt like the plot and characters arcs felt a bit hollow and needed a bit more.
the first 70% was quite slow and didn’t have enough magic in it imo, but the ending sequence was good and helped to tie in the fantasy element!
the first 70% was quite slow and didn’t have enough magic in it imo, but the ending sequence was good and helped to tie in the fantasy element!
October 6, 2025
I devoured this book! Ivy and Cal’s dynamic?! This is exactly what I crave in a romantasy. Effortless to sink into, perfectly paced, and brimming with sass, tension, and chemistry. The worldbuilding, lore and magic system was so layered and intriguing! The deeper we dove into Ivy and Cal’s connection to everything unfolding? Jaw droppingly good. I’m dying to see where the next book takes us!
July 24, 2025
The banter between Cal and Ivy is soooo good. The way he proves over and over that she is his end game, even if she can’t accept it is perfect. Ivy’s inner monologue is so relatable and I love her. 10/10 recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 7, 2025
“I’ve only just started worshipping you, but something tells me that you’d love being treated like a sinner.”
this book was fantastic. I loved it from the beginning. the plot is great and you fall for the characters quickly.
this book was fantastic. I loved it from the beginning. the plot is great and you fall for the characters quickly.
October 9, 2025
This book is amazing! The pacing is on point and it’s giving dark romantasy. I love the rainy dark vibes
January 5, 2026
such a fun read! I was hooked from the beginning. lots of adventure and romance. fast paced. fun magic system. cant wait for more!
September 30, 2025
I think this book has the potential to be something great. The plot and tension of the main characters are there but everything takes forever. There are so many questions that Ivy needs answers and and no one is talking about it. They are on the road and she keeps thinking these important questions but won’t ask them out load. And as soon as it gets brought up someone always say “I’ll tell you , trust me” and then they ride in silence for 3 days.
I want to know if they complete what they set out to do but it is taking forever to get these answers that can help her but they never come. Unfortunately, I DNF this book simply because I lost interest.
I want to know if they complete what they set out to do but it is taking forever to get these answers that can help her but they never come. Unfortunately, I DNF this book simply because I lost interest.
July 28, 2025
5⭐️
2.5🌶️
Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book!
This was such a good-time, vibe read!
Our FMC, Ivy, is such a strong-willed character in the best way. She leans so much into the reputation she’s earned and doesn’t let her sex lessen her worth in his kingdom. As the only female heir to her region’s governorship, she doesn’t let any man…or god stand in her way. Because for Ivy, the gods turned their backs on her long ago and she doesn’t give 2 cents about it.
In a magicless realm, those found to possess it are bound for death. When she was 8 years old, she was cursed by a beast with magic she doesn’t understand and had to hide from everyone, including her friends and father, the governor of the Emerald region.
When the current king dies without an heir, all the regions must come together to vote on the next king. With her father’s health failing, it’s up to Ivy to travel to the capital for the vote. Sent to escort her is Captain Callan Murphy, a man proceeded by his ruthless reputation. The two soon find though that their goals and intentions align and not only does their plan grow but so does the tension between the two. But there are bigger things at play and Ivy soon discovers more about her magic, her past, and Cal that turns her world upside down.
Callan is your ultimate green flag 💚 man! Not afraid of following Ivy or try to dampen her power. His devotion to her is felt so much on page and I just love these two! ❤️
This is more of a medium-burn story, which I enjoyed reading something other than a slow-burn for once. Ivy has Callan on her knees for her and while it’s her that takes a while to see what they have and feel what is real, they are ultimately destined for one another.
With a medium burn story, it allowed us to have a few different spicy scenes 🌶️ spread throughout the story (yay!!). And they were spicy scenes with dialogue, which I love to read! Dialogue between the characters always put more intensity in it for me vs just reading what’s happening, so I was glad to see that!
We have some good found family trope starting here too. So many side characters we get to meet that I would love to explore more of in future books.
Also, there are definitely some surprises in there for characters that I was NOT expecting. Or the main plot twist was definitely not something I was guessing beforehand!
I loved getting a chance to read this early! I hate that it doesn’t come out until October, which means that it’ll be even LONGER for book 2 😭
This book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but sets up for future book storylines.
I highly recommend this book and love that it’s a debut novel for this author! I can’t wait for more! I hope it won’t be too long in between books! 😁😁
2.5🌶️
Thank you to the author for an e-arc of this book!
This was such a good-time, vibe read!
Our FMC, Ivy, is such a strong-willed character in the best way. She leans so much into the reputation she’s earned and doesn’t let her sex lessen her worth in his kingdom. As the only female heir to her region’s governorship, she doesn’t let any man…or god stand in her way. Because for Ivy, the gods turned their backs on her long ago and she doesn’t give 2 cents about it.
In a magicless realm, those found to possess it are bound for death. When she was 8 years old, she was cursed by a beast with magic she doesn’t understand and had to hide from everyone, including her friends and father, the governor of the Emerald region.
When the current king dies without an heir, all the regions must come together to vote on the next king. With her father’s health failing, it’s up to Ivy to travel to the capital for the vote. Sent to escort her is Captain Callan Murphy, a man proceeded by his ruthless reputation. The two soon find though that their goals and intentions align and not only does their plan grow but so does the tension between the two. But there are bigger things at play and Ivy soon discovers more about her magic, her past, and Cal that turns her world upside down.
Callan is your ultimate green flag 💚 man! Not afraid of following Ivy or try to dampen her power. His devotion to her is felt so much on page and I just love these two! ❤️
This is more of a medium-burn story, which I enjoyed reading something other than a slow-burn for once. Ivy has Callan on her knees for her and while it’s her that takes a while to see what they have and feel what is real, they are ultimately destined for one another.
With a medium burn story, it allowed us to have a few different spicy scenes 🌶️ spread throughout the story (yay!!). And they were spicy scenes with dialogue, which I love to read! Dialogue between the characters always put more intensity in it for me vs just reading what’s happening, so I was glad to see that!
We have some good found family trope starting here too. So many side characters we get to meet that I would love to explore more of in future books.
Also, there are definitely some surprises in there for characters that I was NOT expecting. Or the main plot twist was definitely not something I was guessing beforehand!
I loved getting a chance to read this early! I hate that it doesn’t come out until October, which means that it’ll be even LONGER for book 2 😭
This book doesn’t end on a cliffhanger but sets up for future book storylines.
I highly recommend this book and love that it’s a debut novel for this author! I can’t wait for more! I hope it won’t be too long in between books! 😁😁
September 26, 2025
[ARC Review]
Godsbane, by Lindsey Richardson
4.5/5 stars (But we're rounding up on Goodreads!)
Releasing October 7th, 2025
Intricate, passionate, alive-
A story that breathes you in from the very first word
Why you should read Godsbane:
- A main character who is GOOD the way a wildfire is safe: violent, beautiful, unpredictable, and necessary
- An intricate, breathing world that you learn by living in it
- Magic that follows its own rules just as often as it breaks them
- Passion and power as two sides of the same coin; love as a catalyst, strength as a vow
- Twists and revelations that have you saying “Holy shit?!” with one breath and “OF COURSE!” with the next
- An intriguing villain, a high-stakes mission, and a cast of rich, eminently loveable characters
A battle between desire and duty, love and necessity, fate and choice
“How is this a choice? This is designed by the fucking gods. We didn't choose this.”
“I did.”
What worked for me:
- Ivy is beautifully complex and deliciously human: she's simultaneously vicious and noble, callous and kind, determined and terrified. I'm torn between wanting to shake her and wanting to make her a cup of tea
- Callan is constant and unrelenting, but he never stops being interesting: each layer peeled back reveals more depth and nuance that feeds into his devotion
- The world is a perfect blend of fantasy and politics: just enough fantasy to be an escape, just enough political intrigue to keep me hooked
- Each surprise, each reveal, each new plot element builds on what came before. At no point did I perfectly predict what was coming, but the story never felt unreasonable, over-dramatic, or cheap
- The romance is a central part of the story but never sidelines the external plot. The love and the stakes are intertwined and extremely well- balanced
“If you boys are done, I have business to attend to and men to poison.”
What didn't work quite as well for me:
- While in general, I loved the side characters, a couple of them felt a little underdeveloped
- The major climactic moment unfolded a little too quickly for me: I found myself wishing that the heaviest-hitting moment hit a little bit harder in that pinnacle scene. But the build up and the fallout were very well-paced and more than made up for those few speedy pages.
“What can you offer him? Shadows? Flowers? A broken, beaten heart that even you can't love?”
Godsbane, by Lindsey Richardson
4.5/5 stars (But we're rounding up on Goodreads!)
Releasing October 7th, 2025
Intricate, passionate, alive-
A story that breathes you in from the very first word
Why you should read Godsbane:
- A main character who is GOOD the way a wildfire is safe: violent, beautiful, unpredictable, and necessary
- An intricate, breathing world that you learn by living in it
- Magic that follows its own rules just as often as it breaks them
- Passion and power as two sides of the same coin; love as a catalyst, strength as a vow
- Twists and revelations that have you saying “Holy shit?!” with one breath and “OF COURSE!” with the next
- An intriguing villain, a high-stakes mission, and a cast of rich, eminently loveable characters
A battle between desire and duty, love and necessity, fate and choice
“How is this a choice? This is designed by the fucking gods. We didn't choose this.”
“I did.”
What worked for me:
- Ivy is beautifully complex and deliciously human: she's simultaneously vicious and noble, callous and kind, determined and terrified. I'm torn between wanting to shake her and wanting to make her a cup of tea
- Callan is constant and unrelenting, but he never stops being interesting: each layer peeled back reveals more depth and nuance that feeds into his devotion
- The world is a perfect blend of fantasy and politics: just enough fantasy to be an escape, just enough political intrigue to keep me hooked
- Each surprise, each reveal, each new plot element builds on what came before. At no point did I perfectly predict what was coming, but the story never felt unreasonable, over-dramatic, or cheap
- The romance is a central part of the story but never sidelines the external plot. The love and the stakes are intertwined and extremely well- balanced
“If you boys are done, I have business to attend to and men to poison.”
What didn't work quite as well for me:
- While in general, I loved the side characters, a couple of them felt a little underdeveloped
- The major climactic moment unfolded a little too quickly for me: I found myself wishing that the heaviest-hitting moment hit a little bit harder in that pinnacle scene. But the build up and the fallout were very well-paced and more than made up for those few speedy pages.
“What can you offer him? Shadows? Flowers? A broken, beaten heart that even you can't love?”
August 8, 2025
“𝘼𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙥𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧. 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙮 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙨.”
Godsbane by Lindsey Richardson
4.5⭐️ || 2🌶️
• Unique magic systems
• Gods & monsters
• Reluctant allies to lovers
• Morally grey MCs
• Touch her/him & die 💀
• Feminine rage
This book had me in a chokehold, from the very beginning. I’m pretty sure the words, “well, damn,” came out of my mouth after reading the prologue. If you’re a fan of 𝘚𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘚𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘴, and 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩, with a mythological twist, this book is DEFINITELY for you.
In a kingdom where magic is outlawed and punishable by death, Ivy Fellows has been hiding a dangerous secret since she was eight—a curse left by a beast whose magic she doesn’t understand. Not even her closest friends or her father, the governor of the Emerald region, know the truth. But when the king dies without an heir, the leaders of every region must gather to vote on the next ruler. With her father’s health failing, Ivy is sent to the capital to cast the Emerald vote.
“𝙒𝙝𝙤𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙫𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙣.”
Ivy owns every single page she is on; strong-willed, unapologetic, and absolutely unwilling to let her gender or a god dictate her worth. She’s turned into a villain by gossip and slander, but instead of breaking, she sharpens herself into a weapon, in more ways than one.
Her guardian? Captain Callan Murphy—a man with a ruthless reputation that everyone fears…except Ivy. What starts as an obligation quickly turns into an alliance. Their goals align, stories converge, and so does the tension simmering between them. Can I just say that Cal is the ultimate green flag—devoted without being overbearing, protective without ever trying to clip her wings. He follows her lead, backs her power, and makes it very clear that he’s all in. He is literally on his knees for her 😏
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙄𝙫𝙮. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩.”
My heart appreciates the “no cliffhanger” ending, but it sets the stage BEAUTIFULLY for what’s clearly going to be an epic continuation. I can’t believe that this book js a debut—it is SO GOOD. I need book two yesterday.
Godsbane by Lindsey Richardson
4.5⭐️ || 2🌶️
• Unique magic systems
• Gods & monsters
• Reluctant allies to lovers
• Morally grey MCs
• Touch her/him & die 💀
• Feminine rage
This book had me in a chokehold, from the very beginning. I’m pretty sure the words, “well, damn,” came out of my mouth after reading the prologue. If you’re a fan of 𝘚𝘩𝘪𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘚𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘴, and 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘚𝘪𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘩, with a mythological twist, this book is DEFINITELY for you.
In a kingdom where magic is outlawed and punishable by death, Ivy Fellows has been hiding a dangerous secret since she was eight—a curse left by a beast whose magic she doesn’t understand. Not even her closest friends or her father, the governor of the Emerald region, know the truth. But when the king dies without an heir, the leaders of every region must gather to vote on the next ruler. With her father’s health failing, Ivy is sent to the capital to cast the Emerald vote.
“𝙒𝙝𝙤𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙡𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙫𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙣.”
Ivy owns every single page she is on; strong-willed, unapologetic, and absolutely unwilling to let her gender or a god dictate her worth. She’s turned into a villain by gossip and slander, but instead of breaking, she sharpens herself into a weapon, in more ways than one.
Her guardian? Captain Callan Murphy—a man with a ruthless reputation that everyone fears…except Ivy. What starts as an obligation quickly turns into an alliance. Their goals align, stories converge, and so does the tension simmering between them. Can I just say that Cal is the ultimate green flag—devoted without being overbearing, protective without ever trying to clip her wings. He follows her lead, backs her power, and makes it very clear that he’s all in. He is literally on his knees for her 😏
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪, 𝙄𝙫𝙮. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙉𝙤 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩.”
My heart appreciates the “no cliffhanger” ending, but it sets the stage BEAUTIFULLY for what’s clearly going to be an epic continuation. I can’t believe that this book js a debut—it is SO GOOD. I need book two yesterday.
September 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
A huge thank you to Lindsey Richardson for letting me dive into Godsbane early because WOW. This book completely swept me away and I am already counting down to October 7th, so the rest of you can experience it too! This is book one of a duology.
The world building was absolutely stunning. It’s lush, intricate, and woven so naturally into the writing that I never once felt pulled out or distracted from the plot. Most fantasy books take me a while to get fully invested but Godsbane’s FMC, Ivy is a force. She is badass and tough and smart but also incredibly relatable. There is palpable emotion in the way that female struggles were explored. For every girl who just wanted to call men “assholes” out loud- Ivy is your girl. It feels like stepping into a fresh fantasy realm that’s equal parts mysterious and dangerous, yet still filled with beauty. Romantasy can become stale sometimes but this story felt like a refreshing step away from the Fae and shadow daddy MMCs. Plot twists that made me gasp out loud and a really fun magic system made this a 4.5 star book for me!
Ivy is the kind of heroine that I love to root for (It’s giving Celaena Sardothien). Pair her with a grumpy-but-soft-for-her MMC and you have the absolute perfection that is Cal. He’s broody but kind, strong but gentle, and also down right SEXY. Our Captain has a very real touch her and die energy but he is also so egregiously down bad for her that he lets her boss him around. The way his softness slips through for her alone had me swooning, giggling, and highlighting like a lunatic (he even got his own color of highlighter).
The romance thread is addictive without overshadowing the bigger story, and the balance between the stress of the fantasy world and THICK tension was spot on. Add in the gorgeously written prose, fully immersive imagery, and a plot that kept me hooked from the first page, and Godsbane hit the romantasy nail on the head. A big round of applause for this debut author and I cannot waittttt to read book 2 to close out our time in Corinth!
Fans of The Plated Prisoner Series, Crowns of Nyaxia duet, and Throne Of Glass—you need to have this one preordered.
🌶️🌶️.5
A huge thank you to Lindsey Richardson for letting me dive into Godsbane early because WOW. This book completely swept me away and I am already counting down to October 7th, so the rest of you can experience it too! This is book one of a duology.
The world building was absolutely stunning. It’s lush, intricate, and woven so naturally into the writing that I never once felt pulled out or distracted from the plot. Most fantasy books take me a while to get fully invested but Godsbane’s FMC, Ivy is a force. She is badass and tough and smart but also incredibly relatable. There is palpable emotion in the way that female struggles were explored. For every girl who just wanted to call men “assholes” out loud- Ivy is your girl. It feels like stepping into a fresh fantasy realm that’s equal parts mysterious and dangerous, yet still filled with beauty. Romantasy can become stale sometimes but this story felt like a refreshing step away from the Fae and shadow daddy MMCs. Plot twists that made me gasp out loud and a really fun magic system made this a 4.5 star book for me!
Ivy is the kind of heroine that I love to root for (It’s giving Celaena Sardothien). Pair her with a grumpy-but-soft-for-her MMC and you have the absolute perfection that is Cal. He’s broody but kind, strong but gentle, and also down right SEXY. Our Captain has a very real touch her and die energy but he is also so egregiously down bad for her that he lets her boss him around. The way his softness slips through for her alone had me swooning, giggling, and highlighting like a lunatic (he even got his own color of highlighter).
The romance thread is addictive without overshadowing the bigger story, and the balance between the stress of the fantasy world and THICK tension was spot on. Add in the gorgeously written prose, fully immersive imagery, and a plot that kept me hooked from the first page, and Godsbane hit the romantasy nail on the head. A big round of applause for this debut author and I cannot waittttt to read book 2 to close out our time in Corinth!
Fans of The Plated Prisoner Series, Crowns of Nyaxia duet, and Throne Of Glass—you need to have this one preordered.
August 5, 2025
WOW!! I received this book as an ARC read and I’m so glad I applied. I was so excited to read this and was so glad that it hooked me from the start. The first couple days I read it I zoomed through it because I could not put it down. I had some things come up to prevent me from reading. I picked it back up and finished it in that day. It really had no moments of lull or feeling of slowness. It kept a pace that kept me wanting more. Even after finishing the book I want more. I feel like the characters were brought to life in such a way that I will think of them often. Even the smaller parted characters had big parts in this story which made the ending all the better.
The banter and the cat/mouse chase of Ivy and Cal was swoon worthy. I loved how they evolved not only as individual characters but how they intertwined as the story unfolded and their fate unfolded. It truly was magical and the author did an amazing job at capturing them.
The realm. I loved that it had jewel realms I feel like that was a unique twist. The story had a bit of politics but it wasn’t confusing in any way. I truly loved the evolution of the magic that was in this story. It really grew as the story built and as you progressed with the evolution of Ivy and Cal. Truly magical and left me in awe as a big romance/fantasy reader.
I don’t have a bad thing to say about this book. I loved it so much and have already told friends to get it on their TBR because they will devour this book just like I did.
Thank you Lindsey for allowing me to read this as an ARC it was truly AMAZING!
The banter and the cat/mouse chase of Ivy and Cal was swoon worthy. I loved how they evolved not only as individual characters but how they intertwined as the story unfolded and their fate unfolded. It truly was magical and the author did an amazing job at capturing them.
The realm. I loved that it had jewel realms I feel like that was a unique twist. The story had a bit of politics but it wasn’t confusing in any way. I truly loved the evolution of the magic that was in this story. It really grew as the story built and as you progressed with the evolution of Ivy and Cal. Truly magical and left me in awe as a big romance/fantasy reader.
I don’t have a bad thing to say about this book. I loved it so much and have already told friends to get it on their TBR because they will devour this book just like I did.
Thank you Lindsey for allowing me to read this as an ARC it was truly AMAZING!
August 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐ (5/5)
A fierce romantasy that blends slow-burn tension, forbidden magic, and god-tier stakes.
Godsbane by Lindsey Richardson is a thrilling dive into a richly imagined world where politics, gods, and personal destiny collide. From the first page, the story grips you with a mysterious royal death and never lets up, weaving in high-stakes diplomacy, hidden powers, and a fierce heroine caught in it all!
Ivy (MFC) is complex and compelling, fierce yet vulnerable, strong but burdened by secrets. Her journey takes readers through kingdoms riddled with betrayal, prophecy, and heartbreak. And the romance? A slow burn that delivers. Ivy and Cal’s (MMC) dynamic is layered and emotional, with just the right amount of tension and payoff.
The book does not shy away from heavy themes, but it handles them with care and gravity. There’s a steady rhythm of political intrigue, personal revelation, and magical lore that builds to a powerful and emotional climax.
If you love princesses with forbidden powers, commanders with hidden pasts, prophecies and godly twists, searing slow-burn romance, rebellions and underworld stakes…then this book will not disappoint.
Godsbane is perfect for fans of romantasy with grit, heart, and a touch of the divine. I can’t wait to see where the next book takes Ivy and Cal after that ending!!!
A fierce romantasy that blends slow-burn tension, forbidden magic, and god-tier stakes.
Godsbane by Lindsey Richardson is a thrilling dive into a richly imagined world where politics, gods, and personal destiny collide. From the first page, the story grips you with a mysterious royal death and never lets up, weaving in high-stakes diplomacy, hidden powers, and a fierce heroine caught in it all!
Ivy (MFC) is complex and compelling, fierce yet vulnerable, strong but burdened by secrets. Her journey takes readers through kingdoms riddled with betrayal, prophecy, and heartbreak. And the romance? A slow burn that delivers. Ivy and Cal’s (MMC) dynamic is layered and emotional, with just the right amount of tension and payoff.
The book does not shy away from heavy themes, but it handles them with care and gravity. There’s a steady rhythm of political intrigue, personal revelation, and magical lore that builds to a powerful and emotional climax.
If you love princesses with forbidden powers, commanders with hidden pasts, prophecies and godly twists, searing slow-burn romance, rebellions and underworld stakes…then this book will not disappoint.
Godsbane is perfect for fans of romantasy with grit, heart, and a touch of the divine. I can’t wait to see where the next book takes Ivy and Cal after that ending!!!
August 4, 2025
To start, I got this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This would’ve been a two star review, but writing a book and getting it published is super difficult and deserves to be applauded, so l am giving this book three stars for that reason alone
That being said, with full disclosure, I DNF’d this book. I couldn’t make it past the first two chapters. Normally I wouldn’t review a book I DNF’d but, as I received an ARC for a review, here we are.
I had to reread the prologue twice, and I still left feeling confused. Not intrigued, just confused. I didn’t know when it was taking place, why it was happening, and it didn’t set any sort of expectation for the rest of the book.
The FMC was too irritating to read, I couldn’t get past it. I understand wanting your FMC to be a strong, take-no-crap, sort of character, but she was just mean to everyone around her whether she had a reason to be or not. It felt forced so that the “enemies to lovers” trope box could be checked.
There may have been some sort of explanation for everything I found confusing further into the book, but I just felt it wasn’t worth continuing to find out.
This book may be perfect for someone else, it just wasn’t a fit for me.
This would’ve been a two star review, but writing a book and getting it published is super difficult and deserves to be applauded, so l am giving this book three stars for that reason alone
That being said, with full disclosure, I DNF’d this book. I couldn’t make it past the first two chapters. Normally I wouldn’t review a book I DNF’d but, as I received an ARC for a review, here we are.
I had to reread the prologue twice, and I still left feeling confused. Not intrigued, just confused. I didn’t know when it was taking place, why it was happening, and it didn’t set any sort of expectation for the rest of the book.
The FMC was too irritating to read, I couldn’t get past it. I understand wanting your FMC to be a strong, take-no-crap, sort of character, but she was just mean to everyone around her whether she had a reason to be or not. It felt forced so that the “enemies to lovers” trope box could be checked.
There may have been some sort of explanation for everything I found confusing further into the book, but I just felt it wasn’t worth continuing to find out.
This book may be perfect for someone else, it just wasn’t a fit for me.
August 5, 2025
WOWWWW!!! Just wow!! I finished the book maybe 10 minutes ago, and I’ve said that word probably 200 times. First of all, it’s really so mind blowing that this is a debut novel!!!!! The depth of the storyline, the swings and shocks given, and the emotion brought out is really comparable to that of authors’ with several books under their belt. WOW
This book has everything you want from a romantasy— the heroine is complex yet relatable, the love is deep and complicated, the tropes are enthralling, the steamy scenes are PIPING!! But the story, the conflicts, the battles, the shock factors— they’re new, exciting and unpredictable.
If you’re looking to get sucked into another world and dive into female power, raw magic, the most undeniable love, shocking alliances and familial ties, and the battle of all battles, give this one a try. You will not regret it.
My literal only problem with this book IS WAITING ON THE NEXT!!!!! I grew to adore these characters and feel so invested in them. I cannot WAIT to follow their journey between realms.
Ps— this would be an INCREDIBLE movie or series, both for the storyline and visuals. @netflix @appletv @hulu you’ll want to keep your eye on this author!
This book has everything you want from a romantasy— the heroine is complex yet relatable, the love is deep and complicated, the tropes are enthralling, the steamy scenes are PIPING!! But the story, the conflicts, the battles, the shock factors— they’re new, exciting and unpredictable.
If you’re looking to get sucked into another world and dive into female power, raw magic, the most undeniable love, shocking alliances and familial ties, and the battle of all battles, give this one a try. You will not regret it.
My literal only problem with this book IS WAITING ON THE NEXT!!!!! I grew to adore these characters and feel so invested in them. I cannot WAIT to follow their journey between realms.
Ps— this would be an INCREDIBLE movie or series, both for the storyline and visuals. @netflix @appletv @hulu you’ll want to keep your eye on this author!
September 22, 2025
(4.5⭐️/5)
Godsbane pulled me in from page one and refused to let go. Ivy Fellows is such a dynamic FMC... She's fierce, stubborn, and deeply layered. She’s carrying the weight of living with forbidden magic in a world ruled by gods she refuses to bow to, branded as a villain when in reality she’s simply a girl trying to carve her own fate. Her inner battles and the slow realization that she is not as alone as she once thought gave this story so much heart.
And then there’s Captain Callen Murphy. Broody on the outside, soft at the core, and an unapologetic dirty talker who had me gasping and absolutely kicking my feet. The way he supports Ivy, protects her, and quietly puts her above everything else made their connection not just believable but addictive. He is easily one of my new favorite MMCs.
The blend of rebellion, fate, prophecy, and hidden truths created an atmosphere of tension and intrigue that never let up. Every twist felt earned, and the pacing kept me invested the entire way. The ending struck the perfect balance, open-ended enough to keep me desperate for the next installment, but not a jarring cliffhanger.
This book is bold, immersive, and intoxicating. A brilliant first installment that promises an even wilder ride ahead!
Godsbane pulled me in from page one and refused to let go. Ivy Fellows is such a dynamic FMC... She's fierce, stubborn, and deeply layered. She’s carrying the weight of living with forbidden magic in a world ruled by gods she refuses to bow to, branded as a villain when in reality she’s simply a girl trying to carve her own fate. Her inner battles and the slow realization that she is not as alone as she once thought gave this story so much heart.
And then there’s Captain Callen Murphy. Broody on the outside, soft at the core, and an unapologetic dirty talker who had me gasping and absolutely kicking my feet. The way he supports Ivy, protects her, and quietly puts her above everything else made their connection not just believable but addictive. He is easily one of my new favorite MMCs.
The blend of rebellion, fate, prophecy, and hidden truths created an atmosphere of tension and intrigue that never let up. Every twist felt earned, and the pacing kept me invested the entire way. The ending struck the perfect balance, open-ended enough to keep me desperate for the next installment, but not a jarring cliffhanger.
This book is bold, immersive, and intoxicating. A brilliant first installment that promises an even wilder ride ahead!
October 2, 2025
After the King of Corinth dies without an heir, the governors of the regions must meet and vote who will be their next leader. With her father unable to travel due to his progressing illness, Ivy (called Poison Ivy by most) must travel to Amale to represent the Emerald Region, gather allies amongst the other governors, and ensure that Lord General Marks does not ascend to the throne.
In order to ensure her safety on her travels, Marks makes his Capitain, Callan (Cal) Murphy accompany Ivy on her way. Cal is known amongst the people of Corinth to be the most deadly warrior they've ever had, killing an entire battlefield single-handedly. And he's also extremely hot and exactly what Ivy needs to avoid. But along their way, getting close to Cal leads to Ivy worrying about showing her hidden magic. The magic that's impossible for her to have.
It's honestly hard to believe this is a debut novel. It was incredibly well-written and the world building was so well done. It was easy to understand the intricacies of the world and how Ivy and Cal's powers fit into it without feeling overdone. Lately, I've enjoyed books that have God/Goddess elements so this one was right up my alley.
Honestly, I'm just sad that I can't dive into the next book, but I will absolutely be on the lookout, and would recommend giving this one a read when it's out on 10/7. Thank you to Lindsey Richardson for an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
In order to ensure her safety on her travels, Marks makes his Capitain, Callan (Cal) Murphy accompany Ivy on her way. Cal is known amongst the people of Corinth to be the most deadly warrior they've ever had, killing an entire battlefield single-handedly. And he's also extremely hot and exactly what Ivy needs to avoid. But along their way, getting close to Cal leads to Ivy worrying about showing her hidden magic. The magic that's impossible for her to have.
It's honestly hard to believe this is a debut novel. It was incredibly well-written and the world building was so well done. It was easy to understand the intricacies of the world and how Ivy and Cal's powers fit into it without feeling overdone. Lately, I've enjoyed books that have God/Goddess elements so this one was right up my alley.
Honestly, I'm just sad that I can't dive into the next book, but I will absolutely be on the lookout, and would recommend giving this one a read when it's out on 10/7. Thank you to Lindsey Richardson for an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
✨🤍 Godsbane by @_lindseywrites_ : Ivy yields to no man!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book said GIRL BOSS but MADE it god tier and I devoured every second. Godsbane is serving forbidden magic, political chaos, simmering tension, and a heroine who walks into a kingdom full of men and basically goes…you will not be perceiving me incorrectly today…
Ivy is THAT GIRL! Sharp voice, iron spine, zero fear in a room full of power hungry men (ok boss lady, get’er done!) Cursed with magic she’s not even allowed to have, constantly underestimated, and still walks like she knows destiny waits for her to catch up…And then CALLAN. Murphy. Commander of my heart (sheeewwwww that powerful wonderful man🥵) A man who looks like a threat until you realize he’s only dangerous about her. Quiet devotion. Soft hands on a steel edge. The type to kneel for exactly one woman and then make it everyone else’s problem. He doesn’t dim her, he amplifies her. AND THE TENSION? The medium burn is flawless. Devotion. Banter. Spice with dialogue (my love language 🔥).
The world is lush, the twists are wild, and the romance simmers in the best slow/medium burn way. If you love powerful women, deadly soft men, court intrigue, curses, and god tier reveals! Run, don’t walk!
Already counting the days to book two!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
This book said GIRL BOSS but MADE it god tier and I devoured every second. Godsbane is serving forbidden magic, political chaos, simmering tension, and a heroine who walks into a kingdom full of men and basically goes…you will not be perceiving me incorrectly today…
Ivy is THAT GIRL! Sharp voice, iron spine, zero fear in a room full of power hungry men (ok boss lady, get’er done!) Cursed with magic she’s not even allowed to have, constantly underestimated, and still walks like she knows destiny waits for her to catch up…And then CALLAN. Murphy. Commander of my heart (sheeewwwww that powerful wonderful man🥵) A man who looks like a threat until you realize he’s only dangerous about her. Quiet devotion. Soft hands on a steel edge. The type to kneel for exactly one woman and then make it everyone else’s problem. He doesn’t dim her, he amplifies her. AND THE TENSION? The medium burn is flawless. Devotion. Banter. Spice with dialogue (my love language 🔥).
The world is lush, the twists are wild, and the romance simmers in the best slow/medium burn way. If you love powerful women, deadly soft men, court intrigue, curses, and god tier reveals! Run, don’t walk!
Already counting the days to book two!
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