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The Seer Ablaze
This sweeping, slow-burn sapphic fantasy is perfect for fans of the tragic romance of Ava Reid's "Fable for the End of the World" and the lyrical prose of Nina Varela's "Crier's War."
A false seer. A reluctant queen. A mysterious healer.
False prophecies spill from Isolde's lips, as demanded by her grandparents. They exploit her unique Bond with the divine blue-green phoenix for their own gain. After the high king perishes, Isolde seizes the opportunity to control her own voice by raising the unwilling Princess Arturia to the throne with a false prophecy and an enchanted sword.
When the Griffin Kingdom starts waging war, Arturia shuts herself away from the public. But if Arturia fails as a queen, then Isolde will lose her power and possibly her life. She spins lie after lie to try to hold everything together at court while forging a friendship with a mysterious healer named Tristan. Facing indifferent gods, ruthless politics, and heartbreaking betrayal, Isolde must decide if she is willing to sacrifice her hard-won agency for the queen who snuck into her heart.
A false seer. A reluctant queen. A mysterious healer.
False prophecies spill from Isolde's lips, as demanded by her grandparents. They exploit her unique Bond with the divine blue-green phoenix for their own gain. After the high king perishes, Isolde seizes the opportunity to control her own voice by raising the unwilling Princess Arturia to the throne with a false prophecy and an enchanted sword.
When the Griffin Kingdom starts waging war, Arturia shuts herself away from the public. But if Arturia fails as a queen, then Isolde will lose her power and possibly her life. She spins lie after lie to try to hold everything together at court while forging a friendship with a mysterious healer named Tristan. Facing indifferent gods, ruthless politics, and heartbreaking betrayal, Isolde must decide if she is willing to sacrifice her hard-won agency for the queen who snuck into her heart.
366 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
107 people want to read
About the author
Quinn Elmsworth
1 book1 followerThis author is also published under China Dennington.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 13, 2025
A sapphic high fantasy novel about a false seer and a reluctant queen and of the sapphic yearning kind.
Because of her bond with a Viridian (blue-green) phoenix (a sacred and revered type of phoenix), Isolde has been coerced and manipulated by her grandparents from a young age for their personal gains and benefits by claiming that she has the gift of foresight (a lie). But when the king dies, Isolde (by this time is the royal seer) sees this as an opportunity to reclaim control of her life and proclaims the daughter of the king (Teria) as the rightful successor (a lie), overruling claims from both Teria's brother and uncle.
It has multiple POVs and the timeline of the story is based on the rebirth of the Viridian phoenix ( which is technically the same age as Isolde). The main POV is Isolde and we see how conflicted she was, her schemings and plannings, with the myriad of emotions flowing through her.
The first half of the book was a rather tense read because Isolde being a false seer, I felt a little stressed wondering how long she can maintain her lies and charade before being exposed and especially after war breaks out, and the queen becoming more withdrawn and refuses to perform her duties.
While the second part of the book felt utterly painful especially with Morgan, whom I personally hated. And the unrequited and unspoken love between Isolde and Teria.
I found the ending quite sad and depressing but the author did say it would be so since this will be a duology with a HEA in book two.
The thing I don't like is why the author deems it necessary to include that traitor in the second book. All they ever did was lie and betray everyone. Quite exasperating. And also what was the outcome of the war? I probably have to assume the worst..
Overall I quite enjoyed the book despite the few quirks and the dark tones of the story. I would recommend it.
I would like to thank the author for this free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
Because of her bond with a Viridian (blue-green) phoenix (a sacred and revered type of phoenix), Isolde has been coerced and manipulated by her grandparents from a young age for their personal gains and benefits by claiming that she has the gift of foresight (a lie). But when the king dies, Isolde (by this time is the royal seer) sees this as an opportunity to reclaim control of her life and proclaims the daughter of the king (Teria) as the rightful successor (a lie), overruling claims from both Teria's brother and uncle.
It has multiple POVs and the timeline of the story is based on the rebirth of the Viridian phoenix ( which is technically the same age as Isolde). The main POV is Isolde and we see how conflicted she was, her schemings and plannings, with the myriad of emotions flowing through her.
The first half of the book was a rather tense read because Isolde being a false seer, I felt a little stressed wondering how long she can maintain her lies and charade before being exposed and especially after war breaks out, and the queen becoming more withdrawn and refuses to perform her duties.
While the second part of the book felt utterly painful especially with Morgan, whom I personally hated. And the unrequited and unspoken love between Isolde and Teria.
I found the ending quite sad and depressing but the author did say it would be so since this will be a duology with a HEA in book two.
The thing I don't like is why the author deems it necessary to include that traitor in the second book. All they ever did was lie and betray everyone. Quite exasperating. And also what was the outcome of the war? I probably have to assume the worst..
Overall I quite enjoyed the book despite the few quirks and the dark tones of the story. I would recommend it.
I would like to thank the author for this free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 29, 2025
A woman named Isolde and a certain Queen called Arturia? And it’s queer? Sign me up.
Obviously, this is an Arthurian retelling. But it really does come into its own, it’s new and a very different take on the legend.
On one hand we have Isolde, a seer. She has a link to the Viridian Phoenix and because of that she has visions. In the beginning of the book she is lying about them, though. Her grandparents are forcing her to divulge fake prophecies she has to pretend came from the Phoenix. Also, she forges swords? Which is already cool in and of itself. On the other hand, Turia, a soon-to-be Queen. Divinely chosen. Reminds me of certain somebody with a name VERY similar to hers… he’s a man, though. Shame! (I love reading about a gender-bent Arthur. Sue me.)
There’s also a side character, Tristan, who’s nonbinary and ace. Even if they’re not romantically linked, I always love to read about any relationship between the characters of Tristan and Isolde. And this particular one was definitely different.
The story is mostly from Isolde’s point of view, it occasionally switches up though. And I believe we only have a couple brief chapters from Turia’s POV, it’s mostly other characters. The timeline goes very much back and forth, it can be confusing, I had to go back at times, a little extra effort goes into that.
Our two FMCs. The chemistry!! The energy between them!! I absolutely LOVED them. There’s a sort of other romance, if we could call it that, that rivals theirs and let’s just say I have a favorite.
There’s so much political intrigue as well and I always love that in fantasy books. Though, in this one, I would’ve preferred there to be more romance! I rarely ever say that, but in the case of this book, it’s true. I was promised a sapphic fantasy! I liked it when Turia and Isolde interacted, I wish we got more of that. I’ll let it slide because the plot was so unique.
I do understand it’s the first book in a series, now, where’s the second book?? That ending?? I have theories, I just hope I’m right. I’m so excited for the next installment, I always love me a good Arthurian-retelling book series and this has all the bones to be a very good one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Obviously, this is an Arthurian retelling. But it really does come into its own, it’s new and a very different take on the legend.
On one hand we have Isolde, a seer. She has a link to the Viridian Phoenix and because of that she has visions. In the beginning of the book she is lying about them, though. Her grandparents are forcing her to divulge fake prophecies she has to pretend came from the Phoenix. Also, she forges swords? Which is already cool in and of itself. On the other hand, Turia, a soon-to-be Queen. Divinely chosen. Reminds me of certain somebody with a name VERY similar to hers… he’s a man, though. Shame! (I love reading about a gender-bent Arthur. Sue me.)
There’s also a side character, Tristan, who’s nonbinary and ace. Even if they’re not romantically linked, I always love to read about any relationship between the characters of Tristan and Isolde. And this particular one was definitely different.
The story is mostly from Isolde’s point of view, it occasionally switches up though. And I believe we only have a couple brief chapters from Turia’s POV, it’s mostly other characters. The timeline goes very much back and forth, it can be confusing, I had to go back at times, a little extra effort goes into that.
Our two FMCs. The chemistry!! The energy between them!! I absolutely LOVED them. There’s a sort of other romance, if we could call it that, that rivals theirs and let’s just say I have a favorite.
There’s so much political intrigue as well and I always love that in fantasy books. Though, in this one, I would’ve preferred there to be more romance! I rarely ever say that, but in the case of this book, it’s true. I was promised a sapphic fantasy! I liked it when Turia and Isolde interacted, I wish we got more of that. I’ll let it slide because the plot was so unique.
I do understand it’s the first book in a series, now, where’s the second book?? That ending?? I have theories, I just hope I’m right. I’m so excited for the next installment, I always love me a good Arthurian-retelling book series and this has all the bones to be a very good one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of The Seer Ablaze! As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
2.5 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic High Fantasy
✨ Third Person, Multi POV
✨ Book 1 in a series
✨ Rep: sapphic MCs, nonbinary SC, ace rep
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Arthurian retellings
- Slow burns
- Morally Gray Main Character
- Sapphic Fantasy
- Multiple POVs
- Tragedy (but the story isn’t over)
Content warnings after review.
Some things loved…
- The whole concept of a false seer. I enjoyed seeing Isolde’s background and how she ended up in the position she’s in.
- Isolde being able to get out from under the thumb of her toxic/abusive family and attempt to forage her own path.
- I’m always a fan of a tragedy. And this is certainly a tragic story.
Some things to consider…
- The timeline goes back and forth a lot which was confusing for me at times.
- Isolde’s motivation for her false prophecy about Turia wasn’t well understood by me until further into the book.
- I wasn’t as invested in the characters as much as I would have liked. Plus, I was a bit confused about who the love interest was meant to be through most of the book… It seemed like it was one person, then it seemed like another person, then back to the other person… I’m still not 100% sure who the love interest is supposed to be.
- While I was reading, I didn’t have a good sense of where the plot was taking me or what the point was. I would have preferred if the plot had a clearer direction.
Final thoughts…
Unfortunately this book was a miss for me. I can see it appealing more to other readers. For that reason, while I’m curious where the next book will go, I likely will not continue the series.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
toxic/abusive family, violence, death, ableism
2.5 stars rounded up
✨ Sapphic High Fantasy
✨ Third Person, Multi POV
✨ Book 1 in a series
✨ Rep: sapphic MCs, nonbinary SC, ace rep
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Arthurian retellings
- Slow burns
- Morally Gray Main Character
- Sapphic Fantasy
- Multiple POVs
- Tragedy (but the story isn’t over)
Content warnings after review.
Some things loved…
- The whole concept of a false seer. I enjoyed seeing Isolde’s background and how she ended up in the position she’s in.
- Isolde being able to get out from under the thumb of her toxic/abusive family and attempt to forage her own path.
- I’m always a fan of a tragedy. And this is certainly a tragic story.
Some things to consider…
- The timeline goes back and forth a lot which was confusing for me at times.
- Isolde’s motivation for her false prophecy about Turia wasn’t well understood by me until further into the book.
- I wasn’t as invested in the characters as much as I would have liked. Plus, I was a bit confused about who the love interest was meant to be through most of the book… It seemed like it was one person, then it seemed like another person, then back to the other person… I’m still not 100% sure who the love interest is supposed to be.
- While I was reading, I didn’t have a good sense of where the plot was taking me or what the point was. I would have preferred if the plot had a clearer direction.
Final thoughts…
Unfortunately this book was a miss for me. I can see it appealing more to other readers. For that reason, while I’m curious where the next book will go, I likely will not continue the series.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
toxic/abusive family, violence, death, ableism
September 30, 2025
A sapphic high fantasy full of yearning, betrayal, and political intrigue. Isolde, bound to a sacred Viridian phoenix, has been forced since childhood to pose as a seer for her grandparents’ gain. When the king dies, she uses the moment to seize control by naming his daughter Teria as heir, a calculated lie that shifts the balance of power. The first half is tense as Isolde struggles to maintain her false identity, while the second half grows darker with war, betrayal, and the painful, unspoken love between Isolde and Teria. The ending is sad (as promised), setting the stage for book two and a future HEA. Though I was frustrated by the inclusion of a certain traitor and the unclear outcome of the war, I still really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to fans of dark, sapphic fantasy.
October 1, 2025
This sweeping, slow-burn sapphic fantasy is perfect for fans of the tragic romance of Ava Reid's Fable for the End of the World and the lyrical prose of Nina Varela's Crier's War.
One false seer. With a reluctant queen. And a mysterious healer.
Isolde speaks false prophecies freely spilling them from her lips, just as her grandparents have demanded. Isolde has a unique Bond with the divine blue-green phoenix and her grandparents exploit that bond for their own gain. When the High King perishes, Isolde seizes this opportunity to take control of her own voice, she raises the unwilling Princess Arturia to the throne by speaking a false prophecy and using an enchanted sword.
It's when the Griffin Kingdom decides to start waging war that Arturia decides to shut herself away from everyone. But, Isolde knows that if Arturia fails as the queen she will lose her power and quite possibly her very life. Isolde spins lie after lie in an attempt to hold everything together at court while forging a friendship with this mysterious healer named Tristan. Facing the indifferent gods, ruthless politics, and heartbreaking betrayal, Isolde has to decide if she is willing to sacrifice her hard-won agency for Queen Arturia, the very queen who managed to sneak into her heart.
Tropes: Slow Burn Romance, Dangerously Hot Love Interest(s), Fated / Cursed Connection, Touch-Starved / Intensity-Loaded Moments, I Want You But I Shouldn’t, Power Dynamics, Possessive but Respectful, Dark Fantasy World, Characters scarred by the past, Found Power / Self-Discovery Arc, and Morally Gray Everything
The Seer Ablaze is the 1st book in The Viridian Curse Series by Quinn Elmsworth. This book, I found it to be spellbinding, purely sinful, and absolutely smouldering with perfect tension.
Quinn Elmsworth didn't just set the bookshelf on fire when she wrote The Seer Ablaze – this book sets the whole library on fire. The Seer Ablaze is this delicious dark fantasy that's wrapped up in secrets, prophecy, and beautiful magic, but when you get real; what truly destroyed me was the heat and chemistry that was underlying every interaction.
The torturous sexual tension with each stolen glance, a gentle brush of fingers, a dangerous close encounter that has you holding your breath and begging for more you find that Quinn doesn't rush anything, rather she tortures you with this exquisite slow burn that leaves you panting. She teases you, torments you, builds up layer upon layer, and then finally when you don't think you can take it any more, the tension snaps and you get that beautiful explosion you've been waiting for.
Isolde is this powerful, haunted, and absolutely magnetic FMC. Her love interest(s)? Her love interest(s) are dark, tempting, and oh so very irresistible. Every moment that Isolde spends with her interest(s) is laced with all the unspoken needs they have and the chemistry they share is just off the page electric. And it is oh so much more than just lust – no their feelings are bone deep, emotional, and it can be messy at times that is satisfying and real.
But, The Seer Ablaze is about more than just the steam – it has heart, vulnerability that's hidden beneath its armour as well. All the desire does end up tangling with danger. But, we also get to see that power doesn't always come from magic, we get to see that power can come from choosing to feel everything, even when it hurts the most.
But, when things do get spicy hot? Oh my. I just have to say that it is everything that we have wanted – it's purely raw, intense and it's perfectly written for this book. Quinn doesn't overdo it, she's not gratuitous – it's just perfect and well earned. Each moment of spice is grounded in emotion that we have felt through the book, and that's what makes it burn even hotter.
Isolde's grandparents force her to speak false prophecies. This is due to the unique Bond that Isolde has with the divine blue-green phoenix and her grandparents happily use this bond and exploit that bond happily for their own gain. It's when the High King perishes that Isolde to gain her freedom and take control of her own voice. She raises the unwilling Princess Aruria up to the throne by speaking a prophecy that she knows is false, and of course, she also uses an enchanted sword.
Arturia shuts herself away from all her people when the Griffin Kingdom decides to start waging war. Isolde knows that if Arturia fails as the Queen she's going to not only lose her voice, her power, but she will probably also lose her life. Isolde goes into action and starts to spin lie after lie trying to hold on to her power, to keep the kingdom together, and trying to keep everything together at court. While Isolde does all of this she begins to forge a friendship with a mysterious healer named Tristan.
Isolde knows that she is facing gods who are indifferent to the kingdoms plight, she's surrounded by ruthless politics she barely understands, a heartbreaking betrayal from the last person she ever thought would betray her, Isolde has to decide if the agency she fought so hard to obtain is really worth it and if Queen Arturia the Queen who has managed to sneak into Isolde's heart is worth risking it all for.
One false seer. With a reluctant queen. And a mysterious healer.
Isolde speaks false prophecies freely spilling them from her lips, just as her grandparents have demanded. Isolde has a unique Bond with the divine blue-green phoenix and her grandparents exploit that bond for their own gain. When the High King perishes, Isolde seizes this opportunity to take control of her own voice, she raises the unwilling Princess Arturia to the throne by speaking a false prophecy and using an enchanted sword.
It's when the Griffin Kingdom decides to start waging war that Arturia decides to shut herself away from everyone. But, Isolde knows that if Arturia fails as the queen she will lose her power and quite possibly her very life. Isolde spins lie after lie in an attempt to hold everything together at court while forging a friendship with this mysterious healer named Tristan. Facing the indifferent gods, ruthless politics, and heartbreaking betrayal, Isolde has to decide if she is willing to sacrifice her hard-won agency for Queen Arturia, the very queen who managed to sneak into her heart.
Tropes: Slow Burn Romance, Dangerously Hot Love Interest(s), Fated / Cursed Connection, Touch-Starved / Intensity-Loaded Moments, I Want You But I Shouldn’t, Power Dynamics, Possessive but Respectful, Dark Fantasy World, Characters scarred by the past, Found Power / Self-Discovery Arc, and Morally Gray Everything
The Seer Ablaze is the 1st book in The Viridian Curse Series by Quinn Elmsworth. This book, I found it to be spellbinding, purely sinful, and absolutely smouldering with perfect tension.
Quinn Elmsworth didn't just set the bookshelf on fire when she wrote The Seer Ablaze – this book sets the whole library on fire. The Seer Ablaze is this delicious dark fantasy that's wrapped up in secrets, prophecy, and beautiful magic, but when you get real; what truly destroyed me was the heat and chemistry that was underlying every interaction.
The torturous sexual tension with each stolen glance, a gentle brush of fingers, a dangerous close encounter that has you holding your breath and begging for more you find that Quinn doesn't rush anything, rather she tortures you with this exquisite slow burn that leaves you panting. She teases you, torments you, builds up layer upon layer, and then finally when you don't think you can take it any more, the tension snaps and you get that beautiful explosion you've been waiting for.
Isolde is this powerful, haunted, and absolutely magnetic FMC. Her love interest(s)? Her love interest(s) are dark, tempting, and oh so very irresistible. Every moment that Isolde spends with her interest(s) is laced with all the unspoken needs they have and the chemistry they share is just off the page electric. And it is oh so much more than just lust – no their feelings are bone deep, emotional, and it can be messy at times that is satisfying and real.
But, The Seer Ablaze is about more than just the steam – it has heart, vulnerability that's hidden beneath its armour as well. All the desire does end up tangling with danger. But, we also get to see that power doesn't always come from magic, we get to see that power can come from choosing to feel everything, even when it hurts the most.
But, when things do get spicy hot? Oh my. I just have to say that it is everything that we have wanted – it's purely raw, intense and it's perfectly written for this book. Quinn doesn't overdo it, she's not gratuitous – it's just perfect and well earned. Each moment of spice is grounded in emotion that we have felt through the book, and that's what makes it burn even hotter.
Isolde's grandparents force her to speak false prophecies. This is due to the unique Bond that Isolde has with the divine blue-green phoenix and her grandparents happily use this bond and exploit that bond happily for their own gain. It's when the High King perishes that Isolde to gain her freedom and take control of her own voice. She raises the unwilling Princess Aruria up to the throne by speaking a prophecy that she knows is false, and of course, she also uses an enchanted sword.
Arturia shuts herself away from all her people when the Griffin Kingdom decides to start waging war. Isolde knows that if Arturia fails as the Queen she's going to not only lose her voice, her power, but she will probably also lose her life. Isolde goes into action and starts to spin lie after lie trying to hold on to her power, to keep the kingdom together, and trying to keep everything together at court. While Isolde does all of this she begins to forge a friendship with a mysterious healer named Tristan.
Isolde knows that she is facing gods who are indifferent to the kingdoms plight, she's surrounded by ruthless politics she barely understands, a heartbreaking betrayal from the last person she ever thought would betray her, Isolde has to decide if the agency she fought so hard to obtain is really worth it and if Queen Arturia the Queen who has managed to sneak into Isolde's heart is worth risking it all for.
September 20, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
Thank you to the author Quinn Elmsworth for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spellbinding, Sinful, and Smoldering With Tension
The Seer Ablaze by Quinn Elmsworth didn’t just light a fire—it set the whole bookshelf ablaze. This book is a deliciously dark fantasy wrapped in secrets, prophecy, and magic, but let’s be real: what really wrecked me was the undeniable heat simmering beneath every interaction.
The sexual tension in this story is next level. Every stolen glance, every brush of fingers, every dangerously close encounter had me holding my breath and begging for more. Quinn Elmsworth doesn’t rush it—oh no, this is a slow, exquisite burn. The kind that teases and torments you, builds in layers, and then explodes in the best way when the tension finally snaps.
The heroine? Powerful, haunted, and absolutely magnetic. The love interest(s)? Dark, tempting, and maddeningly irresistible. Every moment between them is laced with unspoken need and electric chemistry. It’s not just lust—it’s deep, emotional, and messy in the most satisfying way.
But it’s not all about steam—there’s heart, too. Vulnerability hidden beneath armor. Desire tangled with danger. Power that doesn’t just come from magic, but from choosing to feel even when it hurts.
And when things do get hot? Oh. Oh. It’s everything—raw, intense, and beautifully written. Not overdone, not gratuitous—just perfectly earned. Every moment of heat is grounded in emotion, which only makes it burn hotter.
Slow Burn Romance ⏳❤️🔥
Every glance, every touch, every almost—drawn out to delicious perfection.
Dangerously Hot Love Interest(s) 🖤😈
The kind of character you definitely shouldn’t trust... but definitely can’t resist.
Fated / Cursed Connection 🔮🩸
Their bond isn’t just chemistry—it’s written in prophecy, fate, or blood.
Touch-Starved / Intensity-Loaded Moments 🖐️⚡
When one touch feels like a shock to the system—and you crave more.
"I Want You But I Shouldn’t" 😩🚫❤️
That forbidden craving, those smoldering looks across a line they know they shouldn’t cross.
Power Dynamics 👑🖤
Whether it’s magical, political, or emotional—there’s tension in who holds the power… and how it shifts.
Possessive but Respectful 🔥💍
They burn for her, but they also see her. And that makes the obsession so much better.
Dark Fantasy World 🌒🗡️
Curses, shadows, magic, and stakes that could shatter everything.
Trauma + Tenderness Combo 💔🫂
Characters scarred by the past, finding moments of softness in each other.
Found Power / Self-Discovery Arc 🦋🔥
The heroine stepping fully into who she is—and becoming absolutely unstoppable.
Morally Gray Everything ⚖️🩸
No clean lines. No black-and-white choices. Just fire, blood, and desire.
Thank you to the author Quinn Elmsworth for sending me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Spellbinding, Sinful, and Smoldering With Tension
The Seer Ablaze by Quinn Elmsworth didn’t just light a fire—it set the whole bookshelf ablaze. This book is a deliciously dark fantasy wrapped in secrets, prophecy, and magic, but let’s be real: what really wrecked me was the undeniable heat simmering beneath every interaction.
The sexual tension in this story is next level. Every stolen glance, every brush of fingers, every dangerously close encounter had me holding my breath and begging for more. Quinn Elmsworth doesn’t rush it—oh no, this is a slow, exquisite burn. The kind that teases and torments you, builds in layers, and then explodes in the best way when the tension finally snaps.
The heroine? Powerful, haunted, and absolutely magnetic. The love interest(s)? Dark, tempting, and maddeningly irresistible. Every moment between them is laced with unspoken need and electric chemistry. It’s not just lust—it’s deep, emotional, and messy in the most satisfying way.
But it’s not all about steam—there’s heart, too. Vulnerability hidden beneath armor. Desire tangled with danger. Power that doesn’t just come from magic, but from choosing to feel even when it hurts.
And when things do get hot? Oh. Oh. It’s everything—raw, intense, and beautifully written. Not overdone, not gratuitous—just perfectly earned. Every moment of heat is grounded in emotion, which only makes it burn hotter.
Slow Burn Romance ⏳❤️🔥
Every glance, every touch, every almost—drawn out to delicious perfection.
Dangerously Hot Love Interest(s) 🖤😈
The kind of character you definitely shouldn’t trust... but definitely can’t resist.
Fated / Cursed Connection 🔮🩸
Their bond isn’t just chemistry—it’s written in prophecy, fate, or blood.
Touch-Starved / Intensity-Loaded Moments 🖐️⚡
When one touch feels like a shock to the system—and you crave more.
"I Want You But I Shouldn’t" 😩🚫❤️
That forbidden craving, those smoldering looks across a line they know they shouldn’t cross.
Power Dynamics 👑🖤
Whether it’s magical, political, or emotional—there’s tension in who holds the power… and how it shifts.
Possessive but Respectful 🔥💍
They burn for her, but they also see her. And that makes the obsession so much better.
Dark Fantasy World 🌒🗡️
Curses, shadows, magic, and stakes that could shatter everything.
Trauma + Tenderness Combo 💔🫂
Characters scarred by the past, finding moments of softness in each other.
Found Power / Self-Discovery Arc 🦋🔥
The heroine stepping fully into who she is—and becoming absolutely unstoppable.
Morally Gray Everything ⚖️🩸
No clean lines. No black-and-white choices. Just fire, blood, and desire.
October 13, 2025
If Goodreads allowed half stars, I would have given this a 3.5.
In a kingdom of humans bonded to phoenixes, our main character Isolde is bonded to the first phoenix who has the gift of foretelling. Isolde does not share her phoenix's gift but has been forced to masquerade as her kingdom's seer by her greedy, social-climbing grandparents. Tired of not having control over her own destiny, she decides to write her own false prophecy by placing the princess on the throne after the current king's demise. She eventually learns that there are consequences to trying to control what has been foretold.
The action and tragedy mentioned in the synopsis take the lead over the very light sapphic romance.
I enjoyed the concept of a false seer in a medieval setting, appreciated that Princess Turia's Tourette syndrome did not define her as a character, and loved the dynamic between Isolde and her bonded phoenix.
My biggest compliment goes to the fact that Quinn allowed us to slowly and organically learn about the world. A lot of the newer fantasy novels I have picked up on my kindle insist on thrusting everything about the world in front of me, in the form of maps, an index, and/or lengthy explanations from the characters that disrupts the story. Readers are allowed to wonder and learn about this world through moments and recollections.
My biggest criticism is how abrupt some of the choices feel. There are one page flashback chapters in the middle of the natural story progression. The story does get repetitive in the first third of the novel, and although I cannot explain why, I felt disconnected from what the characters were feeling while reading.
I am confident that Quinn is going to improve her writing from here. I am excited to see what her next book brings.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review)
In a kingdom of humans bonded to phoenixes, our main character Isolde is bonded to the first phoenix who has the gift of foretelling. Isolde does not share her phoenix's gift but has been forced to masquerade as her kingdom's seer by her greedy, social-climbing grandparents. Tired of not having control over her own destiny, she decides to write her own false prophecy by placing the princess on the throne after the current king's demise. She eventually learns that there are consequences to trying to control what has been foretold.
The action and tragedy mentioned in the synopsis take the lead over the very light sapphic romance.
I enjoyed the concept of a false seer in a medieval setting, appreciated that Princess Turia's Tourette syndrome did not define her as a character, and loved the dynamic between Isolde and her bonded phoenix.
My biggest compliment goes to the fact that Quinn allowed us to slowly and organically learn about the world. A lot of the newer fantasy novels I have picked up on my kindle insist on thrusting everything about the world in front of me, in the form of maps, an index, and/or lengthy explanations from the characters that disrupts the story. Readers are allowed to wonder and learn about this world through moments and recollections.
My biggest criticism is how abrupt some of the choices feel. There are one page flashback chapters in the middle of the natural story progression. The story does get repetitive in the first third of the novel, and although I cannot explain why, I felt disconnected from what the characters were feeling while reading.
I am confident that Quinn is going to improve her writing from here. I am excited to see what her next book brings.
(Thank you to the author for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review)
September 24, 2025
I received an ARC of this book, which does not affect my review. Thank you to the author and Booksirens for the chance to read this book.
This book had a good plot and characters I enjoyed reading. When chapters jump between times, I’ll either get the hang of it or not at all, and this was pretty easy to follow. Where it became harder for me was with the writing. It was clear enough to communicate the story, but it usually felt stilted, especially the dialogue. Because of this, I rarely felt the emotion I wanted to from the characters. It was more like I was being told what to feel.
I dislike how much the phrase “show don’t tell” is thrown around, but in this book, that’s all I can think to describe it with. Usually, a descriptor would be put at the end of a dialogue tag, for example. So instead of showing a character moving sluggishly or yawning or something, it was written as, “she stated tiredly.” So it was harder for me to get in the characters heads or get the feel of the scene. I don’t mind these descriptions when they’re used in moderation, but it happened so often - especially instead of any actual body language descriptions - that the balance (lack of?) was noticeable.
This is also rarely a complaint I have, but in this book, I couldn’t get a clear sense of personality through dialogue. I guess I don’t notice it until it’s missing, but typically I will start to understand who is speaking not even because I’m told, but because characters have a cadence or a way of speaking even if it is incredibly minimal. For some reason, none of them felt different in this book. I wish I could get a better read as to why. Maybe it goes back to that the dialogue felt a little stilted to me, so that was what I noticed every time someone spoke.
Because of this, even though I did like the plot, it took me a lot longer to read this book than it usually would have. There are so many components to a book, but when one is off, especially the prose which spans the entire story, it takes a little more work for me to get through the story. I’m glad I read it, and another reader might find the prose, dialogue, and the like don’t impact their enjoyment.
This book had a good plot and characters I enjoyed reading. When chapters jump between times, I’ll either get the hang of it or not at all, and this was pretty easy to follow. Where it became harder for me was with the writing. It was clear enough to communicate the story, but it usually felt stilted, especially the dialogue. Because of this, I rarely felt the emotion I wanted to from the characters. It was more like I was being told what to feel.
I dislike how much the phrase “show don’t tell” is thrown around, but in this book, that’s all I can think to describe it with. Usually, a descriptor would be put at the end of a dialogue tag, for example. So instead of showing a character moving sluggishly or yawning or something, it was written as, “she stated tiredly.” So it was harder for me to get in the characters heads or get the feel of the scene. I don’t mind these descriptions when they’re used in moderation, but it happened so often - especially instead of any actual body language descriptions - that the balance (lack of?) was noticeable.
This is also rarely a complaint I have, but in this book, I couldn’t get a clear sense of personality through dialogue. I guess I don’t notice it until it’s missing, but typically I will start to understand who is speaking not even because I’m told, but because characters have a cadence or a way of speaking even if it is incredibly minimal. For some reason, none of them felt different in this book. I wish I could get a better read as to why. Maybe it goes back to that the dialogue felt a little stilted to me, so that was what I noticed every time someone spoke.
Because of this, even though I did like the plot, it took me a lot longer to read this book than it usually would have. There are so many components to a book, but when one is off, especially the prose which spans the entire story, it takes a little more work for me to get through the story. I’m glad I read it, and another reader might find the prose, dialogue, and the like don’t impact their enjoyment.
September 28, 2025
My rating: 3.4
First off, I'd like to say that I am so grateful to have been able to get an early version of this book.
Secondly, I'm not an avid fantasy reader, but this book I found far more bearable than I find most fantasy books. I find most fantasy books overexplain everything that the MCs come across in such great detail, even when it gives no forward momentum to the plot. I find most readers confuse this phenomenon with world-building. Fortunately, this book doesn't do that. The book is a fairly easy read and the scenes are written in a way that my mind's eye could see them very clearly.
Thirdly, I appreciate how this book has so much representation of so many communities, including the LGBT as well a people who are disabled. What a way to make us feel seen.
Some improvements that could be made, besides grammatical errors, could be that there were no bodily descriptors at all. If a character was doing something, it was only to complete a task, when in reality, people fidget, people blink rapidly when they are about to cry, and people have different bodily reactions to upsetting news. I'd like to see (or in this case, read) more of that.
Also, the feelings between Izold and Arturia seemed to come way out of left field for me. I find that in books that are well written, there are hints dropped that a person feels a type of way. Some very subtle yearning goes a long way, even if it's just for a few sentences. Just "being there for each other" does not flesh out their relationship arc for me. I understand that that part is supposed to be a surprise, but there is a difference between a reveal and a character doing something way out of left field.
All in all, I feel that this series can only get better with each book. The plot is already good here. The series has good bones. Can't wait for the next one.
First off, I'd like to say that I am so grateful to have been able to get an early version of this book.
Secondly, I'm not an avid fantasy reader, but this book I found far more bearable than I find most fantasy books. I find most fantasy books overexplain everything that the MCs come across in such great detail, even when it gives no forward momentum to the plot. I find most readers confuse this phenomenon with world-building. Fortunately, this book doesn't do that. The book is a fairly easy read and the scenes are written in a way that my mind's eye could see them very clearly.
Thirdly, I appreciate how this book has so much representation of so many communities, including the LGBT as well a people who are disabled. What a way to make us feel seen.
Some improvements that could be made, besides grammatical errors, could be that there were no bodily descriptors at all. If a character was doing something, it was only to complete a task, when in reality, people fidget, people blink rapidly when they are about to cry, and people have different bodily reactions to upsetting news. I'd like to see (or in this case, read) more of that.
Also, the feelings between Izold and Arturia seemed to come way out of left field for me. I find that in books that are well written, there are hints dropped that a person feels a type of way. Some very subtle yearning goes a long way, even if it's just for a few sentences. Just "being there for each other" does not flesh out their relationship arc for me. I understand that that part is supposed to be a surprise, but there is a difference between a reveal and a character doing something way out of left field.
All in all, I feel that this series can only get better with each book. The plot is already good here. The series has good bones. Can't wait for the next one.
September 25, 2025
A false seer. A reluctant queen. A mysterious healer.
Phoenix’s, Griffins, magic, swords, sapphic yearning, what more could you want!
A slowburn sapphic fantasy with slowburn tragic romance and morally grey FMC. No spice, but lots of yearning/stolen moments and a kiss or two.
After a bit of a slow start for me, I became THOROUGHLY ADDICTED to this and f*ck!ng love the tragicness of it all. I can’t say much on that without spoilers but I love how devastating this is. Like the harder you fight something and try and stop it, the worse you make it. Perfectly unavoidably devastating. I did NOT see the twist coming and I love to be surprised.
I found the time jumping a little hard to follow at first in terms of reading flow but that’s just me!
Plot summary
Isolde is bonded to a phoenix, not just any phoenix, but a big important one called Ryth that sees the future. Ryth refuses to share that future with Isolde.. but her grandparents force her to lie to benefit themselves so she became a false seer.
The king dies, and Isolde takes the opportunity to improve her own future and be free of her grandparents by making princess Arturia the ‘true’ heir and queen. Obviously this doesn’t all go to plan and a war with the Griffin kingdom is coming. A perfect example of being your own downfall whilst desperately trying to fix it.
Things I loved:
The whole concept of being bonded to a phoenix
The life cycle of a phoenix and rebirth and what their ashes can do
Griffins!
The indifferent Gods
Ryth is infuriating
Tragedy
The world building
Excited to see where it goes with book 2!
Overall, a wonderfully tragic story with mythical creatures, magic, swords, slow burn sapphic romance, betrayal, and high stakes!
Phoenix’s, Griffins, magic, swords, sapphic yearning, what more could you want!
A slowburn sapphic fantasy with slowburn tragic romance and morally grey FMC. No spice, but lots of yearning/stolen moments and a kiss or two.
After a bit of a slow start for me, I became THOROUGHLY ADDICTED to this and f*ck!ng love the tragicness of it all. I can’t say much on that without spoilers but I love how devastating this is. Like the harder you fight something and try and stop it, the worse you make it. Perfectly unavoidably devastating. I did NOT see the twist coming and I love to be surprised.
I found the time jumping a little hard to follow at first in terms of reading flow but that’s just me!
Plot summary
Isolde is bonded to a phoenix, not just any phoenix, but a big important one called Ryth that sees the future. Ryth refuses to share that future with Isolde.. but her grandparents force her to lie to benefit themselves so she became a false seer.
The king dies, and Isolde takes the opportunity to improve her own future and be free of her grandparents by making princess Arturia the ‘true’ heir and queen. Obviously this doesn’t all go to plan and a war with the Griffin kingdom is coming. A perfect example of being your own downfall whilst desperately trying to fix it.
Things I loved:
The whole concept of being bonded to a phoenix
The life cycle of a phoenix and rebirth and what their ashes can do
Griffins!
The indifferent Gods
Ryth is infuriating
Tragedy
The world building
Excited to see where it goes with book 2!
Overall, a wonderfully tragic story with mythical creatures, magic, swords, slow burn sapphic romance, betrayal, and high stakes!
December 1, 2025
I received a complimentary ARC through BookSirens, and this review reflects my honest opinion.
The Seer Ablaze is an engaging start to a dark, magic-twisted fantasy series with strong character tension and a world that feels immediately dangerous. Quinn Elmsworth drops you into the Viridian Curse with just enough clarity to keep you grounded while still leaving space for discovery. The protagonist’s voice is one of the strongest elements—cautious, burning with instinct and fear, and trying to hold herself together when her abilities feel more like a threat than a gift. I appreciated how her power isn’t romanticized; it’s heavy, unpredictable, and treated with the kind of respect that makes the stakes feel real.
The pacing leans steady with bursts of intensity, and the emotional beats land well because they’re tied to survival rather than melodrama. The supporting cast adds layers, especially in the moments where trust feels earned instead of assumed. I also liked how the magic system is woven into culture and conflict instead of being explained through long info-dumps. By the final chapters, the tension ramps up in a way that sets the stage for a bigger arc, and it made me want the next installment. A solid pick for readers who love perilous magic, prophecies that actually feel dangerous, and heroines fighting to define their own fate.
The Seer Ablaze is an engaging start to a dark, magic-twisted fantasy series with strong character tension and a world that feels immediately dangerous. Quinn Elmsworth drops you into the Viridian Curse with just enough clarity to keep you grounded while still leaving space for discovery. The protagonist’s voice is one of the strongest elements—cautious, burning with instinct and fear, and trying to hold herself together when her abilities feel more like a threat than a gift. I appreciated how her power isn’t romanticized; it’s heavy, unpredictable, and treated with the kind of respect that makes the stakes feel real.
The pacing leans steady with bursts of intensity, and the emotional beats land well because they’re tied to survival rather than melodrama. The supporting cast adds layers, especially in the moments where trust feels earned instead of assumed. I also liked how the magic system is woven into culture and conflict instead of being explained through long info-dumps. By the final chapters, the tension ramps up in a way that sets the stage for a bigger arc, and it made me want the next installment. A solid pick for readers who love perilous magic, prophecies that actually feel dangerous, and heroines fighting to define their own fate.
January 2, 2026
False prophecies, a reluctant queen, and a cryptic phoenix.
Isolde will no longer allow herself to be utilized as a mouthpiece for false prophecies and predictions that only serve others. When the old king dies, she unwillingly finds herself cast as the critical piece in every would be successors plot, and crowning a princess who has no interest in the throne is the only way to survive.
This atmospheric fantasy does take some time to come into its own, but once it finds its footing it makes for a reasonably engaging narrative.
Prior to finding its footing, character motivations are unclear, and the plot seems to lack definitive direction. Even after distinguishing itself, characters continue to make choices that feel inexplicable in context, yet necessary to the plot.
Third person is used throughout the narrative, and readers are treated to a variety of character perspectives; at times the switch between perspectives is a bit hard to clock.
This is an intriguing, high fantasy, and I think it is likely that the quality of narrative will only improve as this series progresses.
This narrative does have a diverse cast, and makes a clear effort to be inclusive. If you are looking for a fantasy with more representation I do think it’s worth the time to give this series a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Isolde will no longer allow herself to be utilized as a mouthpiece for false prophecies and predictions that only serve others. When the old king dies, she unwillingly finds herself cast as the critical piece in every would be successors plot, and crowning a princess who has no interest in the throne is the only way to survive.
This atmospheric fantasy does take some time to come into its own, but once it finds its footing it makes for a reasonably engaging narrative.
Prior to finding its footing, character motivations are unclear, and the plot seems to lack definitive direction. Even after distinguishing itself, characters continue to make choices that feel inexplicable in context, yet necessary to the plot.
Third person is used throughout the narrative, and readers are treated to a variety of character perspectives; at times the switch between perspectives is a bit hard to clock.
This is an intriguing, high fantasy, and I think it is likely that the quality of narrative will only improve as this series progresses.
This narrative does have a diverse cast, and makes a clear effort to be inclusive. If you are looking for a fantasy with more representation I do think it’s worth the time to give this series a try.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2025
Actual rating: 3.5
Let's start from the world-building and magic system, both of which I've found quite interesting. Neither is described in enough details to fully understand where we are and how the magic works, but solid basis are given and it's a great start for the first in a series. I liked that we are in a world where everyone as magic to some degree, and that bonding to a phoenix appears not tone due to some specific characteristics. Also, alchemy here appears to work in a different way from what we are used to, as it is not only bound to the transmutation of metals, but grants other abilities, too.
The plot and the characters are both intriguing, and, even though I expected a bit more magic, in the end I enjoyed the heavy focus on court intrigues and the relationships among the characters. Bonus points for diversity representation and how well it is done! I truly appreciated the queer relationships and the neurodivergent character!
Again, this choice results in setting quite solite basis for the following books. Also, I appreciate the fact that it doesn't end with a cliffhanger, especially since the second book is not out yet.
I didn't give a higher rating mainly because, even if I enjoyed the atmosphere and the plot, I struggled with connected with the characters on a level that I usually need. Although I believe their different personalities come out quite well, even if slightly on the surface, something didn't click for me — obviously, this has to do with my perception and not with the author's writing, which I found enjoyable and easy to follow. Also, I did struggle a tiny bit at the beginning with the back and forth in time and the changes of perspective (even if it's always a third-person narrator).
This said, I'll gladly read the following book to see what happen next! Meanwhile, my thanks to the author, the publisher, and BookSirens for the ARC!
Let's start from the world-building and magic system, both of which I've found quite interesting. Neither is described in enough details to fully understand where we are and how the magic works, but solid basis are given and it's a great start for the first in a series. I liked that we are in a world where everyone as magic to some degree, and that bonding to a phoenix appears not tone due to some specific characteristics. Also, alchemy here appears to work in a different way from what we are used to, as it is not only bound to the transmutation of metals, but grants other abilities, too.
The plot and the characters are both intriguing, and, even though I expected a bit more magic, in the end I enjoyed the heavy focus on court intrigues and the relationships among the characters. Bonus points for diversity representation and how well it is done! I truly appreciated the queer relationships and the neurodivergent character!
Again, this choice results in setting quite solite basis for the following books. Also, I appreciate the fact that it doesn't end with a cliffhanger, especially since the second book is not out yet.
I didn't give a higher rating mainly because, even if I enjoyed the atmosphere and the plot, I struggled with connected with the characters on a level that I usually need. Although I believe their different personalities come out quite well, even if slightly on the surface, something didn't click for me — obviously, this has to do with my perception and not with the author's writing, which I found enjoyable and easy to follow. Also, I did struggle a tiny bit at the beginning with the back and forth in time and the changes of perspective (even if it's always a third-person narrator).
This said, I'll gladly read the following book to see what happen next! Meanwhile, my thanks to the author, the publisher, and BookSirens for the ARC!
November 9, 2025
I was given this book complimentary from Book Sirens in e-book form in return for my honest review. Everything stated in this review is of my own opinion and I was not compensated monetarily for providing this review.
Not every book can be five stars as it would make the rating meaningless. Though yhid book could have been.
The world building is OK but more detail would have been appreciated. The same holds for the character of Robin, she is too 2-dimensional I would liked to know her history in greater detail and more of what made her the woman she id. I would like Tristan to be written out altogether I hated the character and he added nothing that could not have been dome a lot better. He just felt totally wrong.
Fans of slow burn romance will love this, the pace is truly glacial, and not those fast moving global warming glaciers we are talking the type that inch forward over the centuries.
The ending, I do not do spoilers so lets just say it was unexpected. Not really a fan but that is just my opinion.
Three and half stars rounded up to .
Not every book can be five stars as it would make the rating meaningless. Though yhid book could have been.
The world building is OK but more detail would have been appreciated. The same holds for the character of Robin, she is too 2-dimensional I would liked to know her history in greater detail and more of what made her the woman she id. I would like Tristan to be written out altogether I hated the character and he added nothing that could not have been dome a lot better. He just felt totally wrong.
Fans of slow burn romance will love this, the pace is truly glacial, and not those fast moving global warming glaciers we are talking the type that inch forward over the centuries.
The ending, I do not do spoilers so lets just say it was unexpected. Not really a fan but that is just my opinion.
Three and half stars rounded up to .
October 20, 2025
Isolde is bonded to the phoenix Ryth, and is thought to be a seer. That's a lie, she has no visions and has mostly passed on predictions made up by her grandparents.The king's death brings new troubles, as the potential heirs want her to predict they are the 'fated heir.'
Princess Turia surprisingly does not want the throne, and in fact urges Isolde not to support either heir, as they are both warmongers and bad tempered, and will almost certainly lead them to war. Isolde then decides to put her on the throne.
Using her talent for magic and alchemy Isolde fakes a 'divine recognition' for Turia, as well as framing Isolde's grandparents for theft to get them out if the way. Now Isolde becomes the Queen's advisor, as events race on.
Some 'head jumping' where the author switches pov without warning. Also a lot of time jumps, which doesn't help the linear progression of the story.
Also, cliffhanger.
3 out of 5 stars.
Princess Turia surprisingly does not want the throne, and in fact urges Isolde not to support either heir, as they are both warmongers and bad tempered, and will almost certainly lead them to war. Isolde then decides to put her on the throne.
Using her talent for magic and alchemy Isolde fakes a 'divine recognition' for Turia, as well as framing Isolde's grandparents for theft to get them out if the way. Now Isolde becomes the Queen's advisor, as events race on.
Some 'head jumping' where the author switches pov without warning. Also a lot of time jumps, which doesn't help the linear progression of the story.
Also, cliffhanger.
3 out of 5 stars.
November 15, 2025
I’d like to thank the Author for sending me a copy of this book to read.
I rated it 2 stars for several reasons. I love fantasy books so definitely my genre of books to read. However the story line goes back and fourth a lot and was hard to keep up with.
The characters however were really interesting. I liked the main character and her story a false seer and her journey was interesting. I feel I would have liked it much more had the story line been easier to follow.
I didn’t like a lot of the characters they just didn’t have story’s that made me love them besides the queen and the seer. The whole bonded to phoenix’s was also something I liked but the story between the character and the phoenix’s was not something I enjoyed.
I feel this would be a ok book to get started into fantasy novels with. Especially for ya readers.
I rated it 2 stars for several reasons. I love fantasy books so definitely my genre of books to read. However the story line goes back and fourth a lot and was hard to keep up with.
The characters however were really interesting. I liked the main character and her story a false seer and her journey was interesting. I feel I would have liked it much more had the story line been easier to follow.
I didn’t like a lot of the characters they just didn’t have story’s that made me love them besides the queen and the seer. The whole bonded to phoenix’s was also something I liked but the story between the character and the phoenix’s was not something I enjoyed.
I feel this would be a ok book to get started into fantasy novels with. Especially for ya readers.
October 1, 2025
Thank you to the author for sending me this digital ARC for an honest review
"What is it like? Being everything you are?"
This was such a fresh take on an Arthurian retelling. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Isolde, a false seer, compelled to escape the clutches of her (pretty crappy) grandparents by finding a way to convince a Princess to seize control of the throne. Isolde spins a web of lies that may threaten everything and plunge the kingdom into war.
You have a reluctant - to - bond phoenix, griffin riders, a magical sword, and a cast of diverse characters in this Sapphic, slow burn fantasy story that may also make you shed a tear or 2.
I am excited to see what will happen in the next book (because there has to be a book 2 right!?)!
"What is it like? Being everything you are?"
This was such a fresh take on an Arthurian retelling. I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Isolde, a false seer, compelled to escape the clutches of her (pretty crappy) grandparents by finding a way to convince a Princess to seize control of the throne. Isolde spins a web of lies that may threaten everything and plunge the kingdom into war.
You have a reluctant - to - bond phoenix, griffin riders, a magical sword, and a cast of diverse characters in this Sapphic, slow burn fantasy story that may also make you shed a tear or 2.
I am excited to see what will happen in the next book (because there has to be a book 2 right!?)!
October 1, 2025
First, for context, I am a friend of China's, which I wanted to note before writing this review to be fair/honest about any biases I might have.
Regardless of my relationship to her, I have read many many books in my life, and this one genuinely hooked me. I think that's its greatest strength -- I felt like I didn't want to put it down. I wanted to know what was going to come next and ended up binging the entire thing while on a flight. The plot is very strong and very interesting. Also, super unpredictable -- I don't think I could have predicted how things would fall out, but I still became quite invested in every single character.
As an avid reader, I would highly recommend giving this book a try!! It's a great read and an interesting story that China tells.
Regardless of my relationship to her, I have read many many books in my life, and this one genuinely hooked me. I think that's its greatest strength -- I felt like I didn't want to put it down. I wanted to know what was going to come next and ended up binging the entire thing while on a flight. The plot is very strong and very interesting. Also, super unpredictable -- I don't think I could have predicted how things would fall out, but I still became quite invested in every single character.
As an avid reader, I would highly recommend giving this book a try!! It's a great read and an interesting story that China tells.
September 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!
A new take on the rebirth of a Phoenix, and a different style of magic. The characters were well defined, and they each were written quite well.
The only unfortunate aspect of the story was the formatting and numerous grammatical errors I found.
I am aware this is an ARC, and not the final version, but I found it difficult to remain immersed with the jarring formatting, and grammar - that said; I’d stop absolutely read again if it was fixed, and will look forward to book 2!
A new take on the rebirth of a Phoenix, and a different style of magic. The characters were well defined, and they each were written quite well.
The only unfortunate aspect of the story was the formatting and numerous grammatical errors I found.
I am aware this is an ARC, and not the final version, but I found it difficult to remain immersed with the jarring formatting, and grammar - that said; I’d stop absolutely read again if it was fixed, and will look forward to book 2!
December 5, 2025
No spoilers but no way did I see that ending! Sheeesh!
Isolde, the seer, she is complex. Kinda grumpy but mostly just hurt. Turia, with the confidence of her station, could be an amazing queen. Robin “Don’t Hate the Playa, Hate the Game”, is a curious character. I want to know more about her.
The world building is great and the way the religion is built into the story I think is very creative.
I am looking forward to the next book. Thank you for making this a series!
Thanks to Quinn Elmsworth for a free a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Isolde, the seer, she is complex. Kinda grumpy but mostly just hurt. Turia, with the confidence of her station, could be an amazing queen. Robin “Don’t Hate the Playa, Hate the Game”, is a curious character. I want to know more about her.
The world building is great and the way the religion is built into the story I think is very creative.
I am looking forward to the next book. Thank you for making this a series!
Thanks to Quinn Elmsworth for a free a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2025
This is definitely a must read! The story writing and world building felt like I was in the book watching. The built suspense had me engulfed throughout the book. So many tense conversations. The relationships in the book that had me in my feels. It is a true fantasy novel that has everything you would want and the cliffhanger is so real and made me feel raw by the end. The povs were great and gave so many different perspectives showing the dynamics between characters.
October 5, 2025
This was everything that I was looking for and enjoyed in this type of book, it had that feel that I was wanting and enjoyed the use of King Arhur and how it was used to tell the story. The characters were everything that I was expecting and enjoyed the overall concept of the fantasy. It was a strong start to the Viridian Curse series and enjoyed how good Quinn Elmsworth wrote this and am excited for more.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 21, 2026
3.5 rounded up.
I really enjoyed this sapphic fantasy. It’s a story that left me curious and invested in where the plot is headed next. The book has frequent shifts between timelines, yet they didn’t take away from my enjoyment. Overall, I found this to be an entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters, their relationships, and watching them grow throughout the story. The magical elements and creatures were a definite highlight for me, and at its core, this is a story of love and loss.
I really enjoyed this sapphic fantasy. It’s a story that left me curious and invested in where the plot is headed next. The book has frequent shifts between timelines, yet they didn’t take away from my enjoyment. Overall, I found this to be an entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters, their relationships, and watching them grow throughout the story. The magical elements and creatures were a definite highlight for me, and at its core, this is a story of love and loss.
October 8, 2025
I was lucky to receive an eARC version and I’m so thankful.
Tropes: Slow burn, forbidden love!
The false seer has to spin lie after lie and while doing so she falls for the queen.
It was a really good book, I really haven’t dove into fantasy/romantasy before and I’m excited this is the one I chose to read fantasy.
10/10 would recommend
Tropes: Slow burn, forbidden love!
The false seer has to spin lie after lie and while doing so she falls for the queen.
It was a really good book, I really haven’t dove into fantasy/romantasy before and I’m excited this is the one I chose to read fantasy.
10/10 would recommend
September 30, 2025
thank you to the author for the arc!
it took me a second to get into the book, but once i did, i couldn’t put it down! very excited to see where this series goes.
it took me a second to get into the book, but once i did, i couldn’t put it down! very excited to see where this series goes.
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