When Maris's gold veins stir for the first time, spilling ink upon parchment, only one can read the prophecy illumined by her hands. The man she must marry--a Gold Sight--one Wellen of Grena whom she hasn't seen for many years. Stunned by the visions she hopes aren't true, Maris must trust Wellen to keep her safe at all costs, even when he couldn't protect his own Gold Vein sister from an ancient evil neither of them expected to encounter.
Someone is out to silence the Gold Veins and their words. And something hunts to steal the sacred gold... Can Wellen safeguard his bride? And will he gain the love his heart has longed for these many years? As assassinations mount, a group of Elvin-kind assist and prepare for battle--and a hatching no man expects.
I really enjoyed the first in the Ink and Blood Series. Ann M. Freyer does an amazing job weaving fantasy, faith, and romance together! I loved the parallels to the scribe's purpose in the Bible, and the scripture references throughout! The plot is engaging and unexpected, with several notes of suspense throughout! The character's own faith-driven lives are super encouraging to a Christian reader, and I hope they will be to you as well, if you pick up this book! I also appreciated how the third POV set up the next book in the series, which I believe releases in July! Content Notes: Violence: Mild violence, including battles and peril, high stakes, action-driven plot. Language: None Romance: Sweet romance, a few semi-detailed kisses, and romantic moments. Focuses on the relationship rather than the physical aspect.
My Age Rating: 16+ How well this book fits my content guidelines: 10/10
While Romantasy isn’t usually my go-to genre, I’ve read this author before and knew I’d probably enjoy this book—and I wasn’t wrong. I quickly became invested in the characters and loved the imaginative twists of the story, as well as the subtle allegorical nods to Biblical truth. A Scripture that came to mind often as I read was Hebrews 4:12-13:
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.”
If you’re looking for a story that stirs both heart and spirit, don’t miss this book. I can’t wait to return to this world when book two releases next year.