The Chaosweaver's Daughter: A Slightly Silly Fantasy Romance

by M.A. Lakewood, Kayleigh Allery (Editor)

A steamy magical romance about a reluctant magic tutor, a distracted duke, and the secrets that threaten to pull them apart. Perfect for fans of forced proximity, hidden identities, and witty banter.

When a royal summons arrives for her late father, Nesrina Kiappa answers it herself—because someone has to. Armed with rare magic and a sharp wit, Nes hopes to claim her papa’s old post tutoring the palace’s unruly heirs. But she’s not sure how to handle aristocrats… especially a handsome duke who keeps derailing her routine.

Kas Kahoth never meant to keep Nes in the dark. He’s just a little distracted. Buried under titles, duties, and a growing attraction, he finds it hard to stay away as his hidden burdens grow heavier.

Magical mishaps, mischievous twins, and a shared love of academia pull Nes and Kas closer as they navigate the fine line between duty and desire.

If you love fantasy romance with a historical flair, slow-burn chemistry, and clever banter, the second book in the Fear & Focus duology delivers a guaranteed happily ever after. Can be read as a standalone or after The Reluctant Queen .

Genres: Romantasy

401 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 25, 2025

About the author

Lakewood's adult fantasy romance novels could be better described as fantasy romcoms. With plenty of wit, banter, and open-door steam, each of her books offers a complete love story with a satisfying happily-ever-after. Fast pacing and laugh-out-loud moments make her interconnected standalones the perfect choice for your next palate-cleanser read.

For a high fantasy setting where everyone has magic, check out the World of Duhra.​

For a low fantasy setting where the cast is a mix of shifters and humans, check out Beckett Falls.

Reviews

[Xan · Rating 4 out of 5]

‧₊˚✧ 4.25 ✧˚₊‧

Woo, the hype for this one is real. I hadn't read 'The Reluctant Queen', but I did read 'Beck and Call'. That last one really charmed me, and 'The Chaosweaver's Daughter' did so as well! I was very curious if the book would hold up without reading TRQ, since they're interconnected, but it sure did.

The Chaosweaver's Daughter follows our two main characters: Nes(rina) who is the daughter of a scholar and tutor who tutored the current king on his magic, and (Ak)kas the brother of the queen and a duke in the kingdom. Their first meeting is a whirlwind, and everything after their first meeting is a rollercoaster you sure want to be on.

Kas, for his rigid aura in the beginning, sometimes had no filter. It cracked me up on multiple occasions. Both he and Nes were so fun in their interactions. Some things about him I did see coming, but I am quite charmed, so that for sure is forgiven.

Ugh, the royals in this were so much fun. The king and queen were super loveable side characters (yup, side characters). And the most fun thing about it? They were so NORMAL and that made them so real and so fun. Their down-to-earth demeanor sure charmed me.

The king's brother Nekash, however. *shudders* He was so icky when he was around, not someone you want to see a lot of.

This book even had some kind of ARC in it. So it was an ARC in an ARC for me. ARCCEPTION! The story also had queer love, and I adored that.

Anyway, it's said to be a palate cleanser, and to my personal opinion it definitely still is. It wasn't the low stakes from 'Beck and Call', but even with these extra stakes, I really enjoyed it. The air in general still felt light enough. I also thought this story had a 'Pride and Prejudice' vibes, only easier to read and with more fun characters.

My favourite quote? ‘Had his kiss broken her brain?’

And last but not least: I got to enjoy this book as an eARC, so I have to thank M.A. Lakewood (via BookSirens) for this ARC. I hope to ARC read again for you in the future, because I really enjoy it a lot. Can't wait for the next thing you write and I hope to pick up TRQ somewhere in the future!

[Barbara’s bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by BookSirens | 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 2🌶️🌶️

The Chaosweaver’s Daughter is everything I love in romantasy: intelligent writing, a slow-burn romance that makes your heart ache in the best way, and a richly magical world that feels both academic and alive.

Our FMC, Miss Nesrina Tarisden Kiappa (Nes), is vibrant, determined, and deeply committed to honoring her late father’s legacy as she steps into his role as tutor for the royal children. She’s brilliant, passionate about magic, and never afraid to speak her mind—even when confronted with arrogance. Opposite her, we meet the Duke of Stormhill - Akkas Kahoth (Kas): the quintessential brooding duke, aloof and frustratingly unreadable… at least from the outside. Thanks to his POV, we discover he has been under Nesrina’s spell ever since a symposium nearly two years earlier, even if she remained blissfully unaware. His mix of arrogance, vulnerability, and awkwardness makes him both exasperating and utterly endearing.

Their dynamic is pure slow-burn gold: from their first prickly encounter to being forced into close proximity at his estate, every exchange is filled with tension, wit, and an undercurrent of longing. I laughed at his hopeless attempts to interact with her, even his slightly “creepy” tree-watching moments, because they only made his smitten awkwardness more real and human. The academic/magical backdrop—debates, symposiums, ducal responsibilities—adds so much depth to their romance, making their connection not only physical, but intellectual and emotional too.

Kas’ magic is perfect for the “steamy” moments! The intimacy is spicy and well written. I also loved the banter between the two, the dialogues are witty and sparkling.

My Compass Ratings:

5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫, 2🌶️🌶️

• Emotional Impact: 5/5
• Character Connection: 4.5/5
• World-Building: 5/5
• Plot & Pacing: 4.25/5
• Writing Style: 5/5
• Romance Arc Execution: 5/5 ❤️
• Spice: 2🌶️ (slow burn, but beautifully worth the wait)

💫 Tropes & Themes:
💘 Slow Burn Romance
🔥 Brooding MMC (with hidden softness)
💔 Misunderstanding → Resolution
🏰 Forced Proximity (estate stay)
📚 Academic / Magical Symposium Setting
👯 Found Family dynamics (royal children & household)

Favorite Quote:
“You know I’m attracted to you, right.” — Kas

Final Thoughts:
This was my very first Regency-style romantasy and also my first book by M.A. Lakewood — and it will not be the last! It’s such a delight to discover a true five-star read through an ARC. The Old Tongue (fantasy) vocabulary enriched the world-building, the banter and witty dialogues made me laugh and swoon, and the romance had me breathless. The Chaosweaver’s Daughter is a surprise gem and a must-read for romantasy lovers. Totally recommended — and now I want to go back and read the first book of this series - The Reluctant Queen, even though this one can be enjoyed as a standalone.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily — a very warm thank you to the author M.A. Lakewood and the platform for the opportunity to read this book!

[Jennifer Book Dragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a good time. The magic system was incredibly well done. The STEM/academic overtones in the plot I just ate it up! NesArina is a vibrant FMC full of personality! Kas is all kinds of backwards and I loved it. A short quick palette cleanser is just what the doctor ordered.

[Kerri Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me count the ways that I loved this work. Nes is such a sassy lady. Every time she gets loud my brain conjures a regency lady stomping her foot. AND KAS! Such a sweet and misguided fool that you can’t not love this man. When Nes and Kas spar which is frequently, I couldn’t stop laughing. There’s a maze moment and I couldn’t stop myself from waking the sleeping husband with my laughter. Full on cackles. There is spice but it’s like a 2. Way more tension than scenes but that pressure between these two makes the scenes pure fire.

Confession- I don’t typically read regency romances but I think M A Lakewood writes her stories so beautifully that it was worth a shot. I was not disappointed. Think of this a regency romantasy. It does not operate the same as Bridgerton. It will not read the same and you’ll walk away from this book with a full heart and some extra laugh lines.

[Amanda W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a cozy fun read! The romance, the awkwardness, the banter all made for a great time!❤️

Kas is definitely not your regular MMC which makes him more lovable in a way. She was able to really capture his personality and uniqueness but also his passion. He passionate about work, learning and obviously NES!!!

Nes is just too cute. She is a little feisty and unsure of herself but I loved her ability to change and really truly understand her place in the world. She gets to share her passion for learning with Kas and also he pushes her to question her own biases.

The romance is so sweet and genuine but still has enough angst and tension to make it fun!👏🏽

I enjoyed the magic system and can’t wait to see what else she has in store for this world.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this silly fantasy! This is book 2 in M.A. Lakewood's completed duology and this was really great. Kas is the MMC and he's the Duke who is more caught up in his studies than interacting with people. Nas is the FMC, the tutor for the queen's children, who has a brilliant mind and a beautiful face. Their interactions are at times cringe worthy, as Kas does not have the social graces one would expect from a duke. But, I loved the magic systems and how they were able to weave their lives together. I also appreciated the links from the first book - really loved the Reluctant Queen as well. I wish there was more to this series as I would really love to follow Kas and Nas to find out about their future and their children. Highly recommend this book!

[Shana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I throughly enjoyed this story! I am a fan of M. A. Lakewood’s writing and she did not disappoint. If you want a book with Pride and Prejudice vibes, but with more humor, magic, and spice, then this is your book.

Nes is our sassy, strong, intelligent FMC and Kas is our awkward, intelligent MMC. The banter between Nes and Kas is top tier and I loved seeing their relationship develop.

I also really enjoyed having Ehmet and Hevva as side characters in this story.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[A Bit Bookish Co. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bookish Co. Review
The Chaosweaver’s Daughter
4.5⭐️
by M.A. Lakewood
🦖 2025 Book 49/150 📚

Duke of Stormhill- Akkas Kohoth or Kas , as his friends and family know him, is all grown up. At 26, he’s inherited his title, his lands, is solely focused on the quest for knowledge while bettering the life of his people. He is a driven workaholic who doesn’t appreciate any distractions, until a beautiful, knowledgeable Chaosweaver crash lands in the middle of his life to help educate his young niece and nephew- Princess & Prince of Selwas. They are powerful Chaosweavers without the ability to control and fine tune their powers. Kas finds the tutor a massive distraction from his schedule because he can’t keep his mind focused on anything he should be. His work is falling by the wayside and tasks are piling up because he can’t stop daydreaming about Nes. Nes’ father was King Ehmet’s beloved magic tutor, and a favorite of the Duke’s academic writers, when Kas was younger. She is happily taking a chance to step into her recently passed father’s shoes. Nes is barely 22, and invited to teach the King’s children at the palace. Well, her father was, but her father has recently died. Her mother and her are desperate. With her new salary- she would be able to help provide for her mother. She could be living a life she dreams about if the King will just give her a chance. Without even trying, she shows the Duke how much life he was truly missing out on. Her passion and zest for life are unparalleled and he is absolutely in awe of her. When disaster strikes the royal household, the Duke and Nesrina, are forced into close proximity with the royal children in tow. Kas’ and Nes’ entire life is turned upside down by lucky happenstance- and helps him to realize that there is more to life than just working. He can’t continue the old way any longer- and he’s in deep over his head.

Love love LOVED the second book in the Fear & Focus Duology. Much better writing- I feel like the author LOVED these characters and this was who she wanted to write the entire time. Great storyline. The Duke is infuriating and awkward- totally here for this. The back and forth POV’s are brilliant. Love Nesrina’s tutor role and bravery. She’s my fave. I love the intellectual swing to this book. I also am falling in love with the crazy world of Duhra. I want more of the Duke and the Tutor! Would love to see the next book with the Children of both the King and the Duke growing up. M.A. Lakewood’s books have the perfect balance of spice, humor and charm. Very impressed with this second book!

I received an ARC from Book Sirens on behalf of M.A. Lakewood and am happy to leave a voluntary review. I can’t wait for more!

Grab your copy on AMZ or KU today!

[Moonburst · Rating 5 out of 5]

After her father's death, Nesrina answers a royal summons for her father. As a magical tutor with rare magic, she is more than capable to teach the king's children to control their own magic. But she doesn't know what to do with the somewhat rude, distracted duke she encounters. Duke Kas often finds himself completely taken in with his own duties and research, so at first he sees Nesrina as a distraction from his important works. However, he can't keep her out of his mind, and the more he learns, the more he falls for her. But when old secrets about the royal family surface, both Nesrina and Kas have to confront their own past and prejudices.

Nesrina is a capable, logical protagonist with a rigid understanding of her own class status and a low tolerance for secrets. She's certain that the aristocracy cannot be trusted, and she's determined to stay in her own lane. In comparison, Kas is a social awkward intellectual who finds personal interactions and conversation to be somewhat daunting. His romantic overtures are awkward and rather heavy handed, leading to some delightful misunderstandings and plenty of clever banter between the two.

The Chaosweaver's Daughter takes place after the Reluctant Queen but can easily be read on it's own. It's a wonderfully cosy fantasy romance between two very smart people who struggle to communicate and continue to get in their own way. A thoroughly enjoyable read that I couldn't put down.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Paige Denson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The Chaosweaver's Daughter was an incredibly easy romantasy read and a welcome change from sword-wielding characters.

This is the first book that I've read by this author. At first, I was concerned I wouldn't be able to follow as it's the 2nd book in the duology but that was not the case at all. It was very well written and easy to follow.

In a way this reminded me of Pride and Prejudice - an intelligent FMC that values intelligence and is wary of nobles and an equally intelligent MMC who is slightly awkward and unsure of how to present his affections.

The YEARNING. Kas' yearning for Nesrina was superb. It's been such a long time since I just couldn't bear to put a book down but I was so enthralled with Kas and how utterly besotted he was with Nes that I just had to see what happened and finished this book in record time. I love how awkward and unsure he was of himself and enjoyed the dual POV of both characters to see how each other interpreted their interactions.

The side characters in this book include the King and Queen and their children. I enjoyed seeing the relationships develop there as well.

All in all, I give this book a sold 5 stars. It kept me captivated and I truly enjoyed the story unfolding. I am immediately going to go back and read the first book in this duology!

Thank you to BookSirens and M.A. Lakewood for the ARC. This review is left completely voluntarily.

[Ain · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you ask me to define M. A. Lakewood's work in one phrase, it would be this: A breath of fresh air.

I don't know how she does it over and over again, but she delivers whatever she promises! Every. Single. Time.

The Chaosweaver's Daughter was longer than Lakewood's previous two books, but it was definitely the most interesting for me.

It's more of a slow-burn than the other two and the plot is thick as well. I honestly loved the plot twists and the more-high-stake-but-not-traumatic approach. The magic in this one is to DIE for. I was always curious and wanted to learn more about Ehmet's magic in The Reluctant Queen and reading all about it in TCD was a treat. Being a curious researcher myself, I relished in the academic aspect of the book as well.

Adored all the new and old characters and the chaos they brought lol. Nes and Kas's character and relationship development and how they overcame their shortcomings to make things work was a joy to read.

I think it's safe to say that TCD is my most favourite (yet) book from M. A. Lakewood. Though it's a bit bittersweet and nostalgic have this duology end, I cannot wait to read whatever Lakewood cooks up in future. 🤍

If you're looking for a refreshing and cozy, fantasy romcom with HEA, pick up any of Lakewood's books. You won't be disappointed. 🫶🏽

[I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.]

[Tati Acosta · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 plot & pace: low-stakes, medium paced fantasy romance! The Chaosweaver’s Daughter follows Nes, magic tutor to the prince and princess and daughter of a scholar (previous magic tutor to the current king), and Kas, a duke in the kingdom! this is book 2 in a duology of standalone novels BUT i highly recommend reading The Reluctant Queen as well because they’re both so good!

👥 characters: Kas made me giggle with how awkward he was and Nes has basically as much sass as i do 😅 probably more tbh. both Nes and Kas undergo character development because of their relationships with one another and it makes Kas more human and Nes…less obsessed with status. i adored Ehmet and Hevva from book 1 so getting to see them again here at a different point in time was so much fun!

☀️setting: since this is a great palette cleanser between heavier fantasy books, the world building here is easy to digest! the magic system is also incredibly easy to grasp.

🌶️ spice: there’s definitely an appropriate amount of spice in this book without overpowering the plot! i think i might’ve liked the 🌶️ scenes in this one better than the first book ;)

🤩 tropes:
- duke x tutor
- slow burn romance
- magical academia
- there’s more but i hate giving away spoilers 🤪

📝 misc: the maze scene…iykyk 😉

Thank you to M.A. Lakewood for the ARC! all opinions are truthful and my own.

[Kate Laycoax · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yeah, M.A. Lakewood is such a great author. I went into The Chaosweaver’s Daughter after having read both Beck and Call and The Reluctant Queen, and I can happily say that yes, this book absolutely is worth all of the hype I have been seeing.

Nesrina (Nes), daughter of a scholar and chaosweaver, and Kas, duke/queen’s brother/resident distracted academic, are such a delight together. Their first meeting is chaotic but cute, and from that moment forward the story just does not let up at all. Kas had me cracking up more than once; he has that stiff, buttoned up exterior, but then he blurts something with zero filter and suddenly you’re just laughing so incredibly hard. Nes, on the other hand, is sharp, sassy, and exactly the kind of FMC who can handle him. Their banter was hilarious, and their tension was really present and had me on the edge of my seat.

This book has that breezy, cozy feel that makes it such an enjoyable read. Think Pride and Prejudice, but easier to sink into, sprinkled with magic, and a whole lot more fun. The light academia vibes, a little queer love, and even a maze scene that was so GOOD, kept me engaged.

All in all, this was charming, funny, romantic, and magical in the best way. Thank you to M.A. Lakewood and BookSirens for the eARC of this book. I can’t wait to read more in this world!

[Sherri Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor of being an ARC reader for the captivating love story of Nesrina and Kas, and I must say, it was an unforgettable experience. The journey of these two characters is beautifully woven with a mix of sass, determination, and heartfelt moments that kept me engaged and yearning for more.
Nesrina and Kas had a rough start when Nesrina first arrived at the castle. Kas, inspired by the love he witnessed in his family, was determined to find a love as profound as his parents' and his sister Hevva's. Nesrina, with her sassiness and ability to keep Kas in check, added a delightful spice to their relationship. Their dynamic was both entertaining and heartwarming, making their love story truly compelling.
Being an ARC reader for this book was an honor, and it allowed me to dive deep into the characters' development and the challenges they faced. The book kept me engaged from start to finish, and I found myself wanting more with each turn of the page.
I would highly recommend reading "The Reluctant Queen" before diving into the love story of Nesrina and Kas in The Chaosweaver’s Daughter. It provides essential background and context that enriches the experience. M.A. Lakewood has truly impressed me with these books, and I can't wait to see what else is in store for future reads. These were her first books that I have read, and I am eagerly looking forward to more.

[Shandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Nessrina Kiappa answers the Royal Summons meant for her father she can only hope the King and Queen will entertain her. A chaosweaver just like the king and the twin heirs, Nes is sure she can teach the prince and princess to control their magic. However she is unsure how to deal with the aristocrats, especially Duke Kas, a distraction she doesn't need especially as he is the Queen's brother. When an upcoming delegation forces Nes and the twins to Stormhill, as guests as the Duke, to continue their studies. However the two of them cant seem to stop what is growing between them.

Based about 12 years after the first book you don't really need to read book 1. One of my complaints of the first book was the magic seemed a bit confusing to me but I think this book does a much better job explaining it this time. Adding in lore of fairies and blood magic seems to be planting seeds for more stories in this world. I absolutely loved Kas, he was so awkward and it was such a contrast to the brashness and confrontational nature of Nes. My favorite part though was the relationship between Heeva and Kas. The sibling bond was so good, and I loved it. I do hope the author comes back to this world as I would love to see more.

Rating 3.5 stars
*I received a review copy from BookSirens for my voluntary and honest review

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book surely did not disappoint. I had been fascinated by the main characters' budding relationship from the start, amused by how their connection started in a one-sided way and only to continue two years later in the most unexpected way (at least for Lord Kas). When I had thought initially that it was Kas who was stubborn as a mule, it was actually Nesrina who was worse. Theirs was simultaneously an excruciating and beguiling slow-burn romance, one that I was eventually relieved to see blow up in ardent flames of their passion.

Adding to the appeal of their story were the delightful surprises to the plot that were made known along the way. To have all these unfold in a uniquely magical world that was the Kingdom of Selwas - with its watercoursers, windshifters, firebearers, earthshapers, and of course, the rare chaosweavers - one could not help but be spellbound by the world built by the author. It makes me terribly lucky to be among those to encounter this fascinating world, even when all of it is real just in my mind.

I received a free review copy of this book from the author. I give this review voluntarily.

[Katrine Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read both The Reluctant Queen and Beck and Call by M.A. Lakewood, and now also The Chaosweaver's Daughter - and if there's one thing Lakewood does especially well, it's creating characters with the wittiest dialogue. I've laughed through every single book, and this one was no exception. 😍

I'm only giving it four stars because I found the beginning a little hard to get into, but soon enough it swept me away. The Chaosweaver's Daughter is meant to be a fun palate cleanser, and while I still think it is, it was a little more angsty than the other two (not that I'm complaining). The romance is so incredibly sweet - and I loved seeing Kas struggle to ignore her existence (failing miserably, of course). 🤣

I liked how Nes seemed a bit unsure of herself but was still feisty. The banter between the two had me cackling so hard at times!

Even though they are side characters in this book, I was glad to see Hevva and Ehmet again and to see how they were now with their children. 💕

Thank you so much to M.A. Lakewood for the ARC! This review is written voluntarily, and I'm so happy to be back in this universe.

[Jessica Myres · Rating 5 out of 5]

A magical slow-burn full of witty banter, mischievous chaos, and a duke you’ll love to hate (and then just love).

I had such a great time with The ChaosWeaver’s Daughter! This is book two in the Fear & Focus series, but it totally works as a standalone (though there are fun Easter eggs if you’ve read book one).

Nesrina, the daughter of the king’s late tutor, steps in to teach the royal kids who share her chaosweaving magic. She wasn’t expecting to run into Kas, the Duke of Stormhill—who’s busy, broody, and more than a little frustrating. Their banter, slow-burn tension, and surprising chemistry had me hooked from the start.

I loved the mix of magical mishaps, mischievous twins, historical flair, and laugh-out-loud romcom moments. It has just the right blend of heart, humor, and steam. And I’ll admit—I was so caught up in the story that I completely missed some of the clues leading up to the ending (in the best way!).

If you’re into forced proximity, hidden identities, witty banter, and a guaranteed HEA, this one deserves a spot on your TBR.

[Ashlee Fiarris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be an ARC reader for this book. It is the 2nd in the Fear&Focus duology however you don't need to read book 1 to understand or appreciate this book but I highly recommend reading The Reluctant Queen 1st for a bit more backstory.

It did take me a minute to get into it but that was more just life than the books fault, its very well paced but the last 3rd if the book really sucks you into it where you won't want to put it down.

I love Regency stories, and you add magic into it makes it that much more fun to read in my opinion.
In this book our MMC is Kas a Duke and the Queens brother and our FMC Nes a tutor for the King and Queens twins to help them with learning how to control their magic as they grow.

I truly love the interactions between Nes and Kas and how much yearning and sass is in these pages; I was giggling off and on. The spice level in this book is about a 2 maybe 2.5.

Thank you M.A. Lakewood for letting me be an ARC reader for another one of your books!

[Chere Gruver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love everything about this Romantasy!

Seriously, there is nothing I do not like about this story. I always enjoy learning more about the characters I was already introduced to in a previous story, in this case, “The Reluctant Queen.” I love how different the magic is from most fantasies, with characters having control over different elements, well, except for the chaosweavers anyway. The writing style is beautiful and fits the story perfectly. There’s danger and secrets which definitely keep the plot moving and then of course, there’s the romance. I always love a slow burn, where the tension slowly builds between the main characters until they finally realize how they feel about each other. I loved all the characters too, especially the twins with the trouble they managed to get into without even meaning to because they are also chaosweavers. See, nothing not to love about this story, and I know I will read it more than once as well.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jax · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Chaosweaver’s Daughter introduces new and old characters from The Reluctant Queen, set years later as Hevva and Ehmet reach out to a Chaosweaver to tutor their young twins in control of their magic. When Nesrina answers the call she meets Hevva’s younger brother Kas, now a quite distracted and busy duke. What follows is a spiraling tale full of intrigue, romance, slow burn, and danger.

Gods. I don’t even know where to start. I adored The Reluctant Queen for many reasons and this is a stunning way to add to the realm created in that book. You get to meet Kas as an actual adult and duke who has learned his path in some ways but also stayed the same in many ways. Nes is an awesome fmc with a fiery attitude and beautiful descriptions. And the twins are such a spark to the story that you can’t help but love. Plus seeing snippets of Hevva and Ehmet years into ruling together? So much to love about this. Massively recommend.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nes likes routine, and very quickly carves one out for herself in this new life as magic tutor for the royal twins.

They are sent away from the castle to stay with the twins' uncle, Duke Kas, in the country where they will have more space to safely explore their magic.

When Kas directly interferes and causes her routine to be disrupted, she devotes her energy to making sure his work and quiet solitude is disturbed.

While I really loved Nes and Kas, at times I did get annoyed some of their assumptions. Nes is very fiery, and Kas constantly puts his foot in his mouth.

I was really interested in the magic system.

My favourite line - "wasting time on an unread man is like tossing away a thousand thoughts".

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Megan Winters · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, I liked the storyline and the characters. The magic system was interesting in theory, but I think it could have been so much more. The spice was great. Lakewood did a great job with the slow burn. I did struggle a bit with the heroine. I found some of her characteristics childish (such as "stomping her foot") or just walking away from an argument when it wasn't going her way. It lowered my respect for her, which you don't want for a heroine, certainly. She also blew Kas's gift to her WAY out of proportion, making an argument out of something that was really a sweet gesture. But, then again, don't couples have the stupidest arguments? I did like Kas's secret author life and how he attributed her in his work. That additional storyline made his interest in and love for her all the more powerful.

[Kayla - TheCrochetedLibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered The Chaosweaver’s Daughter by M.A. Lakewood through BookSirens, and what a delightful surprise it turned out to be! Set in a Regency-inspired fantasy world, this book blends historical romance and cozy fantasy with a magical twist. Even though it’s part of a duology, it absolutely works as a standalone—familiar faces from the first book appear in the background, but you can easily fall right into this story without feeling lost.

Nesrina, daughter of the late Hothan Tarisden, steps into her father’s shoes as magical tutor to royal twins while navigating her own rare naughtbirin powers. Enter Kas, the introverted, research-loving, air wielder duke whose carefully ordered world is suddenly unraveled by Nes and her quick wit. The dual POVs are brilliantly written—Kas’s inner monologues in particular made me grin—and the forced proximity trope is executed flawlessly. Their relationship evolves from wary allies to friends to a romance full of tenderness and spice.

The worldbuilding is rich but never overwhelming. Instead of dumping information, Lakewood layers details about elemental magic and the rare naughtbirin naturally through dialogue and action. I especially appreciated how the twins gravitated toward Nesrina with warmth rather than falling into the “wild child” trope. Alongside the romance, subtle political intrigue and whispers of rebellion add tension without overshadowing the cozy, character-driven heart of the book.

What truly makes The Chaosweaver’s Daughter stand out is its tone. As the author notes, this isn’t meant to be heavy or overly complex—it’s a palate cleanser in the fantasy romance space, and it succeeds brilliantly. After several dense, lore-packed fantasies, this was a breath of fresh air. The writing is witty, romantic, and warm, the chemistry between Nes and Kas sparkles, and the banter shines. I devoured it quickly and didn’t want to leave the world Lakewood created.

Thank you BookSirens and M.A. Lakewood for the ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[My_Books_In_Nooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review for ’The Chaosweaver’s Daughter’ by M.A Lakewood

I loved reading this book!
It is the second book of the Fear&Focus duology, but you can read it as a standalone.
Nesrina steps in as a magic tutor for the twins of king and queen who have rare magical abilities.
She meets Kas, the aueen’s brother and they don’t hit it off right away, but their slow burn and banter is adorable!
Nesrina is strong, smart, sassy, everything a young woman should be.
Kas is stubborn, but he carries his responsibilities well.
Their🌶️ is delicious, slowly built over time and written with delicacy, just yummy!

I enjoyed reading this book. If you like airy, fresh, funny banters, beautiful worldbuilding, then this book should be on your TBR
5/5⭐️

[Ryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book and am leaving a voluntary review.

This book was amazing! From the start, Nesrina is established as not only a very intelligent character, but the rapport she is able to build with other characters is great! She is such a good FMC in that she has so many different facets, rounding her out into a character that’s really enjoyable to read about! This book gives Pride and Prejudice vibes in the best way possible! Who doesn’t love a spunky FMC and a grumpy MMC? The magic factor only elevates it all and makes it so much fun! I loved the way the magic system worked! It wasn’t too complicated and it made for some really great moments, especially with a certain two characters involved! Overall, I would recommend this book and really enjoyed reading it.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a story worth waiting for!

A thoroughly enjoyable book. This is one of those stories where as soon as you open the book, you know you are in good hands and can just lose yourself in the tale. Definitely plan to read this in one sitting because you won’t be able to put it down. Funny and magical in more ways than one, this story of love just pulled me in. Kas is funny, smart, and sweet, but he really does bumble his way through. At times, my heart ached for him. Nes is stubborn and strong and truly an amazing character. In spite of this being a tale of magic in another world, it was easy to identify with what the characters were going through. The intrigue just added to the joy of reading this! I can’t begin to say what a wonderful book this was! Highly recommend.

[InMyNestaEra89 · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️ I enjoyed this one even more than the first book in the duology!! M. A. Lakewood has solidified herself as one of my all-time favorite cozy fantasy writers. This one even had some excitement towards the end! More high stakes, not completely 100% “cozy”.

This has some definite Pride and Prejudice vibes, but with magic and spice! Our main characters are both very intelligent and I LOVED that our MMC was first and foremost attracted to our FMC for her mind.

Kas (our MMC) is so awkward and bumbling, but you can’t help but fall in love with him. He consistently does the wrong things, but for the right reasons, and it’s incredibly endearing.

If you love cozy fantasy, or just a good romance, this one is for you!!

[Kat M · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a strong sequel in the Fear & Focus series, it had that fantasy romance perfectly and enjoyed the overall feel of this and how it was used in this world. The characters were so well written and enjoyed how well the characters were in this world, everything worked together to tell the story in continuing this storyline and the characters worked well overall in this series. M. A. Lakewood has a strong writing style and I've enjoyed the everything that I was looking for and enjoyed in this writing style.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cody Warner · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Regency Romance and Magic had a baby, the Chaosweavers Daughter would be that girl. Nes is fiery and powerful yet still knows her place. Her distrust for royalty finds her at odds with the clueless yet loveable Kas. Their chemistry and back and forth are to die for. The banter is top notch as always when it comes to MA Lakewood Books. I couldn't help but fall in love with them both.

I absolutely loved The Reluctant Queen, and The Chaosweavers Daughter did not disappoint. MA Lakewood is quickly one of my favorite Romantasy authors of ALL time!!! I am excited to see what comes next!

2 Chilli Peppers.
5 Stars!!!