A Taste of Silver

by Helen Scott

He's been watching me through every mirror for centuries.

In the kingdom of Virelda, reflections are forbidden and it's said that a phantom prince lives behind the glass, with a voice so beautiful it drives people mad. When I'm hired to silence him, I discover why he's really

Me.

He says that we were lovers before I sacrificed my memories to save him. That the silver magic burning through my veins belongs to him. To us.

I don't remember any of it.

But when he teaches me to walk between worlds, when his touch ignites powers I can't control, when he looks at me like I'm his whole universe... I start to wonder if forgetting him was the real curse.Some monsters aren't meant to be feared. They're meant to be loved.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy

308 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 24, 2025

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Helen Scott spends her time alternating between fantasy and reality. She likes to think she’d be sorted into Hufflepuff and would have been a Physical Kid from Brakebills. Her days are fueled by tea and cuddles from her four-legged kids and amazing husband in their home in the Chicago suburbs.

When not reading or writing, Helen can be found baking, enjoying a walk in the woods, crafting, or playing video games. She’s a lover of sushi and K-Dramas and is convinced there is magic in the world if you know where to look.

Whether paranormal or contemporary, Helen loves writing sassy, kick-butt heroines and drool-worthy love interests. She's the author of the House of Wolves and Magic series, the Cerberus series, and the Of Demons and Dragons series.

Subscribe to Helen’s newsletter for a free book to get started on the adventure today! https://geni.us/HelenScottNewsletter

Reviews

[MandyViolete · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is right up there with The Giver, A Wrinkle in Time, and the Lion Witch and the Wardrobe. The story itself is unique and interesting, but it is all of the layers that we could spend decades sifting through that really bring this story to the next level. Readers who want to experience an adventure will definitely enjoy this, but those who want something different - something deeper, something so substantial that by the end it really makes you think - this book will absolutely enrapture them.

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an intriguing story from the blurb, and the beginning of this novel absolutely drew me in and piqued my interest. Imagine a world where reflections are forbidden. Mirrors are covered, and the secrets they hold are locked away. Until she discovers the prince who lives inside...waiting for her.
When she glimpses him, recognition sparks, and he whispers that the truth is waiting to be revealed. It turns the world on it's head and mirrors throughout the kingdom all come to life.
If you're looking for a story that moves gracefully with its drama, then this is the book for you. If you're looking for fast-paced drama, utter chaos, and heartbreaking forbidden romance then this is not going to be for you. This book is nuanced and flows gracefully as the storyline is revealed and pieced together. It's rather nuanced and you'll have to exercise patience as the author gives you a lot of detail in various places. I felt that some of the detail with the nuances of the characters speech especially was overdone and slowed the story down more than was necessary.
Overall, it's an interesting standalone novel that feels more like a dance.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing read of a love forgotten but never truely lost. A wondrous journey through the mirror while Aurea and Silvyr search for a balance not just within themselves but for the realms around them. Really enjoyed the read

[Samantha Silensky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an adventure, a journey, and a destination, all at once and then not at all. It has depth that you could spend years trying to explore, and so many twists and turns, it turns into a literal maze at some points. The entire book has an air of mystery and intrigue, even at the end. It gives the air of nothing ever being truly set in stone, so anything could happen at any time. Even once we see the final ending.
The realms have a history. A past. And they could have a future, or their future could be complete destruction on both sides, or complete harmony and resonance between them. But they are bleeding through in the present. Awakening things that were supposed to stay asleep. Changing people with the possibilities of power and control. Hiding things that could spell disaster. But also giving Aurea glimpses of a past she can’t quite remember. And giving Silvyr hope that they could stand side by side once more.
The main characters, Aurea and Slivyr, have only really know 2 things for most of their lives. Aurea knowing only the whisper of forgotten things that she feels and hears in the back of her mind and in the reflections of puddles. The ones you don’t know what you’ve forgotten but you know something’s missing. Along with this deep belief that life feels… off. She feels off. The world doesn’t quite function as it should.
And Silvyr, that in this current loneliness, he would sacrifice anything to see Aurea again in a substantial way like when they were kids, to any end. Also that he will do whatever is in his power to help her through whatever comes their way, from the beginning to the end of time, and never hesitate. Even at great cost to himself. And with how things are looking, that may be the case.

[countryhuntress01 · Rating 5 out of 5]

So complex, so mysterious, intoxicating to read. I can’t say enough good things about this book and it has honestly been my favorite book I’ve read in a long time. Aurea & Silvyr are amazing and complex characters and unraveling their twisted stories was thrilling.

Aurea: To open, Aurea is walking in a blizzard in the middle of the night to a Lord’s estate-why? When she arrives, us readers find out there’s a Prohibition… for reflective surfaces 🤯 The repetitive denials of her experiences in the study were definitely chilling especially when the voices started talking to Aurea and not just Valtier. Not to mention, he brings her BACK to his estate... Melora added a fascinating facet to the story, giving histories throughout the novel that filled in some of the holes from Aurea’s story as well as that familial aspect for her. I loved the push and pull as Aurea was fighting fantasy v reality whenever she slipped between realms, memory walked, and the truths she was uncovering compared to what she was raised by. I definitely felt like I was in the story, learning at the same time that Aurea was learning.

Silvyr: Mysterious, timeless, forlorn. This is a man but also an ancient being capable of not just love, but patience and even distress. We meet him when Aurea meets him, allegedly for the first time. Seeing the world, his world, through his eyes was sorrowful but hopeful at the same time. He not only pines after this woman, but he tells his “mom” that he will be whatever the love of his life needs him to be.

This is not a book that is predictable and I love that. I also appreciated the fact that this was a different type of supernatural romance, yall will see when you read 😉 Silvyr’s story is just as mysterious as Aurea’s and the details that dictate they grew and changed with time and by the lives they were burdened to live after Sundering is a testament to their strengths. Well done, Helen Scott❤️

[Lory · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Taste of Silver is a wonderful and haunting take on the “star crossed lovers” and “lost love found” themes that I absolutely adore. I found myself instantly drawn into Aurea’s story her strength, her mystery, and the slow unraveling of who she really is. Then there’s Silvyr, the enigmatic man in the mirrors, whose every moment on the page had me captivated.

Their connection isn’t about spice it’s about devotion, destiny, and that kind of soul deep love that feels timeless. Honestly, that made it even more powerful. Helen Scott weaves love, magic, and fate together so seamlessly that I couldn’t put it down.

The concept of the Mirror Realm was beautifully written shimmering, dangerous, and filled with secrets that twist and turn until you can’t tell what’s real anymore. The Crimson One added an extra layer of intrigue that made me even more curious about the larger world and its hidden truths.

What this book may lack in heat, it makes up for in heart, respect, and promise. I loved the message of choice and sacrifice and Aurea’s bravery in facing everything she thought she knew to create something better, no matter the cost.

We do not give up on real love and choice, even when it demands everything.

📌 As always, this review is 100% voluntary and uncompensated just one emotionally wrecked reader shouting into the void about a story that truly shimmered.

[Paula Sabol (Never Choose Fantasy) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Taste of Silver by Helen Scott is a beautifully written dark fantasy story. Aurea is a young girl living in a world where mirrors are dangerous. However when she awakens something in the mirror there is no way back to unknowing. As she searches for answers hidden in memories Forgotten she struggles to know who to trust. When she finds betrayal on all sides, she must trust herself and the man in the mirror that everyone seems to want her to forget. Will she remember in time to save herself or has she lost before she even begins?
I really enjoyed this story. The world- building absolutely amazing and the imagery stunning in my own mind. This story bends and reshapes reality leaving readers reeling. So much betrayal that it can become hard to follow and find the truth. There are some ideas and imagery that just blew my mind. My only complaint is at times it can be hard to follow with truths unraveling slowly and at times a little repetitive and the writing a little much. Towards the end I became impatient. As a musician I love how music and magic seemed to be intertwined and love the concept.
If you enjoy fantasy stories based in new realms, magic, star-crossed lovers, betrayal, and a world where reality is a suggestion then you will enjoy A Taste of Silver.

[Miss E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get ready for a trip through reality. A trip that leaves everything to the imagination.
I really liked this story and the characters a lot. Aurea evolved past her lost memories and found strength and balance within herself.
Silvyr, the centuries old mirror serpent, had his own fears to overcome.
The most surprising thing was the ending. The climax of the story laste about the last 25-30% of the book and I felt that was quite long to keep swirling around in suspension. That is what hindered the last star for me. I simply felt the crescendo in limbo for too long.
However, I loved how it all played out. The final solution to the main plot was very satisfying. It was different, but yeah, I loved that LOL

This is a stand alone. It is a romance with a romantic plot, but I feel the romance only was a side thing. There was lots of love - SO much love, but it wasn't the main focus. And don't read this for the smut, cause there isn't any - at all.

But for those who love their fantasy world with a little bit of romance woven in, but don't want all the sweaty parts, this is a perfect read. Keep your mind sharp, cause reality is absolutely tuned up side down - and I loved that!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cool concept!

This book was really different than other fantasy book, and I really enjoyed it since it kept me on the edge of trying to figure out what was really going on, although a lot of it did sorta go over my head!

Aurea doesn’t remember much of her childhood, but she was found as a child and now lives with Melora who also mentored her in her craft. The world she lives in has banned any type of mirrors due to something that happened long ago. She visits a house to help the Lord with his issue – but his issue happens to be with the mirror he has. When she sees it, she sees the serpent who speaks to her and knows her name.

This starts her journey of remembering exactly who she is – she is the daughter of the last Mirror Queen and the last of her line. The serpent has actually been watching her for a really long time, as they are actually connected. Remembering things actually could cause more destruction, but now that she has had her eyes opened, there is no stopping the memories of what her purpose is… and that is to either heal the realms or destroy them.

Loved this fantasy novel, although I do wish I could see more of what happens next!

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Taste of Silver is a unique story. At times I was confused as I didn’t have all the missing pieces but, as the story continues these pieces start to fall in place. Aurea is a woman who doesn’t remember things that she should. She is a sweet and strong woman that doesn’t realize how strong she really is. Silvyr is the in between that is truly magnificent in creation. Their yearning is felt throughout the story and has you walking in their journey. This a test of love and trust, acceptance and giving, a place to show respect. You feel it all throughout the story. It has lies and betrayals that seep through the cracks. Then the story has epic moments that steals your breath away. The story, as with all of Helen Scott’s writing is absolutely beautiful and amazing. This story drew me in so quickly and I couldn’t put it down. I absolutely had to find out how it ends. The ending was absolutely beautiful and brilliant. I loved how it ends. This is absolutely an incredible read that doesn’t disappoint.

[Angel Hatfield · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aurea lives in a kingdom where mirrors and reflections are banned. When she's called to help someone with a mirror fixation, everything she knows gets turned upside down.
So, I really liked Aurea and her speedy journey as she uncovered who she really was. I liked Silvyr and the fact that he wasn't super powerful. He was there to balance her. However, there were a few reasons this was a four star instead of a 5 star. I found several inconsistencies in regards to time (how old Aurea really is and how old she was when everything happened) and who really was responsible for what happened. At one point it was even stated it was Silvyr, which was incorrect. The other reason was the final act. It took up allot 1/3 of the book and I just felt like this was too much as it seemed to take forever. I found myself skimming through a lot if it and just focusing on what they were saying and i didn't feel like I missed anything.
In the end, it was really good, but tye end was a bit much. I recommend for those that like stories that are other realm themed.

[Briann · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Taste of Silver is a standalone dark fantasy romance with star-crossed lovers and a happily ever after. While this isn’t the first time I’ve read a book written by Helen Scott, it is the first time I’ve read one of her fantasy romances.

This story revolves around Aurea and Silvyr, separated not only by time, but also by realms and magic; her memories of him are forgotten until one fateful night, when she's called out to Lord Valtier's estate, and she discovers her life has been a lie. Silvyr, on the other hand, hasn't forgotten; he’s watched Aurea from the Mirror Realm, never giving up on her or their love.

A Taste of Silver was different from what I usually read. The author takes her time building the world, the characters, and relationships, making the story seem slow and a bit confusing at times. At its heart, the story is about love, choice, and the courage to change one’s path—reminding readers that love truly conquers all.

Overall, it was a good read, and I’d definitely recommend it if you like fantasy romances, but I personally like my books with more… spice.

[Helen Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was different from anything I have ever read before. The author did an amazing job with the world building on not just one but 2 different realms, Virelda and The Mirror realm. There was a good plotline- Aurea works with herbs, making Herbal remedies and is called upon by a lord. He has heard a voice calling to him every night. Aurea thinks he is just sleep deprived and imagining things until he uncovers a mirror. Mirrors are banned objects and if they are not destroyed must be covered, but there in the mirror is a serpent type figure. It calls her name, it knows her. And although she can't remember, she feels she knows him too.
This is a fantasy romance. It is heavy on the deep love that Aurea and Silvyr have for each other but has no spicy scenes. Not surprising really as they were in seperate realms for most of the book, visiting through reflections and trying to find a way to be together while forces worked to keep them apart.
A lovely story and well worth a read

[Caylee T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very interested in this book initially because it seemed intriguing. And it was.

I found myself very curious about Aurea & what her story was in regards to the mystery behind who she really was.

Then to add on, the mysterious connection with the man in the mirrors, Silvry.

Getting to know how she came to be & how he waited for her was definitely interesting & different. I definitely liked the fact that this was a bit different to what I usually read. But it definitely pulled me with the Mirror Realm & the Mirror Queens. All the responsibility & demand that is put at her feet was daunting.

But I had a feeling she would be able to work it all out especially with Silvyr at her side.

A part of me would’ve loved a little more of a glimpse into their future at the end but it ended on a happy note & I can’t be mad at that.

Amazing job!

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a kingdom where mirrors and reflecting surfaces are forbidden and feared, Aurea is the one person responding to them, curious and drawn in. When her magic starts to manifest and her memory returns, she dedicates her efforts to free the serpent prince living on the other side of the mirrors. But the Crimson One hungers for her power, and the human prince also has his own agenda..
This was a really unique and interesting story. Magic and music working in sync, the power of love that makes nothing impossible. I absolutely loved the storyline and the whole setup, and the characters were great. My only "complain" is the pacing - while the first half was perfect, in the second half it started slowing down and the last couple of chapters were dragging and sounded even somewhat repetitive. While it diminished my excitement, it does not change the fact I enjoyed the book in general.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Helen Scott and have read most of her books. She’s one of my go-to authors for fantasy romance, and this story didn’t disappoint. The concept of forbidden reflections and the mirror realm was so creative and beautifully done.

Aurea was such a strong heroine, and Silvyr completely captured my heart. Their connection felt timeless and emotional, more about devotion and soul than spice, which honestly made it even more powerful. The writing had this haunting, fairytale quality that pulled me right in and kept me hooked until the end. Ugh. I want more from this world!

I loved the message of choice and sacrifice, and the way the story blended love, magic, and fate so seamlessly. It was romantic, tragic, and hopeful all at once. So good!

[Angela Celeste · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a wild ride through a reality that constantly flips upside down. I really enjoyed it — the world, the twists, and especially the characters. Aurea grows so much as she faces her lost memories and finds strength, while Silvyr, the ancient mirror serpent, has his own demons to deal with.

The ending took up a big chunk of the book — maybe a little too long? Still, the final payoff was clever. It’s technically a romance, but the love story feels more like background to the bigger fantasy plot. There’s plenty of emotion, but no steam at all, so don’t expect that kind of read. If you like fantasy that messes with your sense of reality, has heart, and throws in a little romance without going full-on mushy, this one’s perfect.

[Missy Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author and how her mind works. A Taste of Silver has such a different variety of magic, fate and the addicting tale of forbidden love.

Aurea and Silvyer's story is one that I just could not put down until the end. Their journey was filled with ups and downs. Such tension at times. But it also gave me a sense of great hope, and love. That sometimes if you think things will be a certain way, and bam! Ms. Scott does an amazing job of telling their story. I felt like I was watching a movie, it is so well written. That is why I love reading her books, they transport you on a journey along with the main characters and I love the ride.

Overall this is an amazing read that I would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a great book.

[TXBRITGAL · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will never look at a mirror the same way again 😉✨💜

A wonderful take on the star crossed lovers and lost love found genre. Aurea is such a strong, resilient and impressive FMC. Her entire world twists and turns in on itself when she discovers all she thought she knew is false, and is missing oh so much more. Secrets abound in this twisty turn read, and danger sneaks in hidden places. These characters are colorful and so much fun to read about. And this world is unlike any other that I've seen. The world building is a wonder to watch unfold. I kind of hope we may see more books in the future with other characters from this story? Overall a really fun read.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting read. Very different from my normal reads, but the idea behind it was fascinating. I loved the idea of this mirror realm. I also loved getting to know Silvyr, Aurea & even the Crimson One. Their development throughout the book was very well written. I did have a hard time following some of the back and forth towards the end, but the ending of the book was very heavy. Although I have to say I loved that they really focused on the idea of choice. You can choose to walk a different path regardless of the choices you’ve made previously. Overall, I enjoyed this one and would recommend it.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

My word did this book keep me on my toes and at times I had to keep going back over some of the story just to keep up with it all. Aurea (FMC) is drawn into a world where mirrors hold answers to questions about her memory loss, her family and Silvyr the man in the mirror. A man who is trying to make her remember who she is. This story draws you in and keeps you guessing with all the great plot twists and turns but it was the relationship Aurea & Silvyr had that was endearing to read. There was little to no steam in this book but I didn't miss it personally. That made it more focused on love and loss I thought. A good read.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful standalone fantasy read involving magic, lost romance and different realms. Aurea has no memory of certain things in her past but that all changes one day as she finds her world turned upside down and discovers all that she thinks she knows is a lie. Silvyr is locked in the mirror realm and watches Aurea through the mirrors into her world loving her from afar, waiting patiently for their day to come. It’s a fascinating read, intriguing and has you with its grips with plot twists and turns and a wonderful relationship, timeless and devoted and once started I could not put this down!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a constant on the edge of your seat book. Everything literally just kept building and building until it finally reached the crescendo. My only complaints would be the repetitive line usage in the book and also how you thought the characters were coming together only for them to be like just kidding and then going back to being together. It was a bit confusing. However it was still a good book. I’ve never really read anything like this so it was interesting to say the least. If you’re looking for impossible bonds, longing, a smidge of mystery and reality shaping powers this is for you.

[Nicole Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an adventure, a journey, and a destination, but it also takes unexpected turns. It has depth that could be explored for years, with so many twists and turns that it feels like a literal maze at times.
The realms have a history, a past, and could have a future. It could be complete destruction on both sides, or complete harmony. The realms bleed into the present, awakening things that were supposed to stay asleep, changing people with the possibilities of power and control, and hiding things that could spell disaster. Aurea also glimpses a past she can’t quite remember, while Silvyr hopes they could stand side by side once more.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a romance felt on a deeper level. A young love with star-crossed lovers vibes. What it lacked in spice it made up for in connection, respect, and promise. The concept of the Mirror Realm was really beautiful in its imagery. I think I most appreciated the idea that there is always another way to do things. We do not give up on real love and choice, no matter the cost. Choosing to create a world that's better than worlds before can be frightening and uncertain. I respected the bravery to pursue this action from our FMC Aurea.

[Steph Whitelaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this star crossed fantasy romance. I normally read dark romance/romantic comedy. This was a lovely change of pace.

Aurea grew up in a world where mirrors are forbidden or so she was lead to believe. After 14yrs she finally discovers the truth of who she really is & regains her true powers. She also meets him, her other half of her soul, Silvyr who she has completely forgotten about. Silvyr has waited years for her to remember & come back to him. Going against everyone around them, together they reshape the world to be with one another.

[Dominique · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Taste of Silver started off with a rather interesting concept of mirror realms that pulled me in from the very beginning. Add the overall tropes and concepts to Scott’s exceptional world building skills and I just knew I would love this storyline. Aurea and Silvyr have a love that transcends worlds but it will definitely take a bit of time to reach that point. Our main characters were well fleshed out with intricate backgrounds that made for interesting revelations as the story unfolded. You really have to read it for yourself!

[Shirley Monas · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an interesting and unique world I was taken to as I was reading this book. It captured me and held me captive from the start. Very delicate and detailed writing that was full of metaphors. It’s not really an easy read but the words written really makes you think. I can honestly say that it took me a bit to get through this book because of that. However, that made me enjoy the book even more. The message was clear in my mind and found this book to be forgiving and soul deep. Sacrifices were made out of love and what is given rather than taken makes all the difference.

[Laci Steimel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This star crossed lovers grabbed my attention from the first chapter. Loved getting to see Aurea get her memories back, and how Silvyr stayed steadfast and waited for her. The little surprise about Melora was a good plot twist, and I loved Nira. There was plenty of intrigue and suspense, as well as action. Loved the little moments that made the whole story, like Syra, and Seraphina. The singing part was a little confusing, but the message was beautiful. Loved the redemption at the end, and how the world settled. Great read!

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurea finds herself looking into a mirror and seeing more than her reflection. Someone named Silvyr is there and he says Aurea and he are in love with Aurea sacrificing her memories to save him. Aurea is not ready to believe the man in the mirror, but through learning how to enter new worlds and spending more time with him, she starts to see and feel their connection beyond the normal. A Taste of Silver was a unique read that blurred the lines between love and fate. I really enjoyed this read and I look forward to more by this author.