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Series #2
Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter: A Sapphic Fantasy Romance
My awakening power. Her fading strength. And an ancient magic that could save—or condemn—us.
Having left the Citadel and everything I have ever known, all I have left is Sila. I am determined that we will find a place in this new world, to finally find somewhere safe. I should have known better. With her tether to the Library broken, Sila is beginning to unravel, and every new day in the cursed forest of the outer world brings unknown dangers upon us. But under these sunless skies, my magic burns bright as sunlight in my veins. If I can learn to wield it, it might be the power that will save her.
But such things come with a price, and if it does not cost me my life, it might cost me hers—if the forest doesn’t take us both first.
Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter is a sapphic dark fantasy romance by Elsie Hawthorne featuring a queernormative world, an obsessed shadowy love interest, and a tired of everything MC. This completes the Heart of the Library Duet, and is the second book in the series A Curse of Fallen Stars. Content warnings can be found on the author’s website.
Having left the Citadel and everything I have ever known, all I have left is Sila. I am determined that we will find a place in this new world, to finally find somewhere safe. I should have known better. With her tether to the Library broken, Sila is beginning to unravel, and every new day in the cursed forest of the outer world brings unknown dangers upon us. But under these sunless skies, my magic burns bright as sunlight in my veins. If I can learn to wield it, it might be the power that will save her.
But such things come with a price, and if it does not cost me my life, it might cost me hers—if the forest doesn’t take us both first.
Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter is a sapphic dark fantasy romance by Elsie Hawthorne featuring a queernormative world, an obsessed shadowy love interest, and a tired of everything MC. This completes the Heart of the Library Duet, and is the second book in the series A Curse of Fallen Stars. Content warnings can be found on the author’s website.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2026
19 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 25, 2026
Review Copy - This book was sent to me by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
i binged her whisper in one day and have absolutely no regrets. if you listen carefully, you can still hear me pterodactyl screeching in the distance.
this was one of the most eagerly anticipated sequels i've ever had and it did not disappoint. just like her shadow, i want to give this five trillion stars. an oscar. hang it in the louvre.
i'm obsessed with this duology. i'm obsessed with the world. i'm obsessed with lorel and sila. to quote the 21st century philosopher, edward cullen, this is my own personal brand of heroin. i don't know what elsie put in this, but give me more, i'm starved.
i did not think i could survive that great big fat cliffhanger at the end of her shadow, but i'm pleased to tell you all that i've recovered nicely. all is well. the plot in her whisper is *chef's kiss*. i wasn't really sure where we were going to go or what was going to happen (i had theories, but i was trying not get fixed on any particular thing so i didn't ruin it for myself), but i had so much fun. i loved seeing what the world was like outside of the library. i loved seeing the world just expand before my eyes. like there's so much. it's so rich.
lorel. girly pop. i did not know you could be that unhinged. she goes from zero to one hundred and i was living for it. everything she did, i was like good for her. i can't tell you what she does, because of spoilers, but i was here for all of it. and you will be too.
i want my own sila. i want a shadow mommy. sila is literally the coolest person on the planet and i was BLUSHING every time she was on the page. i love her so much.
the romance between them???????? i am sick of third wheeling. get a room.
i'm joking, i'm obsessed.
and the side characters. oh my god. i LOVE sabian and ysa and thistle (my sweet baby). the list of sequels from the povs of side characters is growing at a ridiculous rate because oh my god, i need more. i want that sabian and nealan and thistle book. i don't care how many organs i have to give you, elsie, i want it goddammit.
i think i've covered everything.
thank you very very much, elsie, for sending me an arc. i'm so grateful. i love this series so so much and i really appreciate it <3 :)
i binged her whisper in one day and have absolutely no regrets. if you listen carefully, you can still hear me pterodactyl screeching in the distance.
this was one of the most eagerly anticipated sequels i've ever had and it did not disappoint. just like her shadow, i want to give this five trillion stars. an oscar. hang it in the louvre.
i'm obsessed with this duology. i'm obsessed with the world. i'm obsessed with lorel and sila. to quote the 21st century philosopher, edward cullen, this is my own personal brand of heroin. i don't know what elsie put in this, but give me more, i'm starved.
i did not think i could survive that great big fat cliffhanger at the end of her shadow, but i'm pleased to tell you all that i've recovered nicely. all is well. the plot in her whisper is *chef's kiss*. i wasn't really sure where we were going to go or what was going to happen (i had theories, but i was trying not get fixed on any particular thing so i didn't ruin it for myself), but i had so much fun. i loved seeing what the world was like outside of the library. i loved seeing the world just expand before my eyes. like there's so much. it's so rich.
lorel. girly pop. i did not know you could be that unhinged. she goes from zero to one hundred and i was living for it. everything she did, i was like good for her. i can't tell you what she does, because of spoilers, but i was here for all of it. and you will be too.
i want my own sila. i want a shadow mommy. sila is literally the coolest person on the planet and i was BLUSHING every time she was on the page. i love her so much.
the romance between them???????? i am sick of third wheeling. get a room.
i'm joking, i'm obsessed.
and the side characters. oh my god. i LOVE sabian and ysa and thistle (my sweet baby). the list of sequels from the povs of side characters is growing at a ridiculous rate because oh my god, i need more. i want that sabian and nealan and thistle book. i don't care how many organs i have to give you, elsie, i want it goddammit.
i think i've covered everything.
thank you very very much, elsie, for sending me an arc. i'm so grateful. i love this series so so much and i really appreciate it <3 :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐️ 3🌶
I had been waiting on this sequel for a while. Book 1 had such a buildup and then that cliffhanger left you in a lurch. It was like riding a rollercoaster as you slowly ascend that first big hill. Each slow notch up taking you higher, until you're hanging over the edge and then spiraling through that drop.
This book picks up on that curve out of the drop. It's all action at every turn, keeping you on edge with the darkness closing in. You think you know what's going to happen to Lorel and Sila, but then another dip in the road. I loved the addition of the new characters Sabian and Ysa, they brought a new viewpoint. Sila is the shadow mommy you didn't know you needed, but now can't live without. I can't wait for the next book to see the other viewpoint. I'm not going to give too much away, but if you liked book 1 then don't sleep on the sequel, when it's released.
Tropes: touch her and die, found family, forced proximity, morally grey.
I'm so thankful for the author for this opportunity. I received an advanced copy for an honest review.
I had been waiting on this sequel for a while. Book 1 had such a buildup and then that cliffhanger left you in a lurch. It was like riding a rollercoaster as you slowly ascend that first big hill. Each slow notch up taking you higher, until you're hanging over the edge and then spiraling through that drop.
This book picks up on that curve out of the drop. It's all action at every turn, keeping you on edge with the darkness closing in. You think you know what's going to happen to Lorel and Sila, but then another dip in the road. I loved the addition of the new characters Sabian and Ysa, they brought a new viewpoint. Sila is the shadow mommy you didn't know you needed, but now can't live without. I can't wait for the next book to see the other viewpoint. I'm not going to give too much away, but if you liked book 1 then don't sleep on the sequel, when it's released.
Tropes: touch her and die, found family, forced proximity, morally grey.
I'm so thankful for the author for this opportunity. I received an advanced copy for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am struck between wanting a Shadow Mommy and wanting to BE a Shadow Mommy 🤭
This story is more than just the spicy sexy scenes (they feel like rewards), it is an epic dark fantasy journey that concludes Lorel & Sila's story within its pages.
Enraptured and craving more of this world and its characters, I became attached to Thistle and Sabian and even cried a few times throughout this moving book.
You've done it again, Elsie Hawthorne! And I caught the mention of Book 3 being Lune's perspective and story. I can't wait!
This story is more than just the spicy sexy scenes (they feel like rewards), it is an epic dark fantasy journey that concludes Lorel & Sila's story within its pages.
Enraptured and craving more of this world and its characters, I became attached to Thistle and Sabian and even cried a few times throughout this moving book.
You've done it again, Elsie Hawthorne! And I caught the mention of Book 3 being Lune's perspective and story. I can't wait!
January 30, 2026
This is a great wrap up to the first book.
There is so much action and tension that left me on the edge of my seat. I am such a big fan of the way Elsie writes. Her prose is sharp and poetic and fills me up. HWSSAB introduces new side characters who have great personalities and large stakes in the story-and I hope we even might get a spin off on them if we're lucky!
I am so in love with how in love and dedicated Sila and Lorel are with each other. The possessiveness that Sila feels, and the way she has to fight off her inner demons to not consume Lorel, is just gut-wrenchingly beautiful. I love seeing Lorel become powerful and determined to do what she must in order to help those around her, including herself and Sila.
I can't wait to read more sapphic stories from Elsie and hope she continues to bless us with her writing.
There is so much action and tension that left me on the edge of my seat. I am such a big fan of the way Elsie writes. Her prose is sharp and poetic and fills me up. HWSSAB introduces new side characters who have great personalities and large stakes in the story-and I hope we even might get a spin off on them if we're lucky!
I am so in love with how in love and dedicated Sila and Lorel are with each other. The possessiveness that Sila feels, and the way she has to fight off her inner demons to not consume Lorel, is just gut-wrenchingly beautiful. I love seeing Lorel become powerful and determined to do what she must in order to help those around her, including herself and Sila.
I can't wait to read more sapphic stories from Elsie and hope she continues to bless us with her writing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book SO much. After the ending of book one I wanted book two (this book) instantly, I NEEDED to know what happened next, I was so attached to the characters and I just had the most amount of anticipation for this book ever possible in the universe.
Then I got sent the book, and any theories I had were instantly just wrong. I was shocked, and I wasn’t even close to guessing what happened correctly, and that actually continued through the book, everything was just shock after shock, I have never seen unpredictability like it.
Okay so now we’ve established how beautifully unpredictable the book was let’s talk about how much I LOVED this book and absolutely every single second of my reading experience. The characters were truly just amazing, every single one of them, I love when books manage to create a full, deep, enticing story while also having plenty of characters that are really easy to connect to as well as being fully fleshed out and developed as their own people.
I actually loved loved loved the characters so much, literally all of them, even the characters that we already knew from book one- they just were better this time? Sila for example, she was more soft, more chilled (?) even though she still wasn’t 100% safe or anything somehow she just came across more comfortable and calm to me this time around. Laurel grew on me more too, she had a lot of growth during this book, she was obviously her own person anyway but I don’t know, this book just build on how strong she is by herself and her strength grew and confidence, she just became MORE.
The storyline (which I don’t know how to talk about without spoiling the beginning) was everything, it kept me interested throughout, I literally read it in one sitting and could not put it down, there was always something happening, but somehow there was also little moments of cozy adorable interactions which I loved. The anticipation of what happens next never stopped, in the few moments of peace where the characters thought they could relax? Boom, something would happen. It was amazing.
The worldbuilding is also just purely beautiful. I knew there was an ‘outside of the library’ and I knew it would be big, but I guess it still seemed HUGE? My thinking is because it’s new to the characters, because it was much larger and open than what they were used to in the library, that’s why it seemed so huge to the reader (me) ? That’s my theory anyway. It was described beautifully though, like it seemed kind of post apocalyptic in a way, empty, bare, but being slowly repopulated and rebuilt. I loved this book so much thank you so much!
Then I got sent the book, and any theories I had were instantly just wrong. I was shocked, and I wasn’t even close to guessing what happened correctly, and that actually continued through the book, everything was just shock after shock, I have never seen unpredictability like it.
Okay so now we’ve established how beautifully unpredictable the book was let’s talk about how much I LOVED this book and absolutely every single second of my reading experience. The characters were truly just amazing, every single one of them, I love when books manage to create a full, deep, enticing story while also having plenty of characters that are really easy to connect to as well as being fully fleshed out and developed as their own people.
I actually loved loved loved the characters so much, literally all of them, even the characters that we already knew from book one- they just were better this time? Sila for example, she was more soft, more chilled (?) even though she still wasn’t 100% safe or anything somehow she just came across more comfortable and calm to me this time around. Laurel grew on me more too, she had a lot of growth during this book, she was obviously her own person anyway but I don’t know, this book just build on how strong she is by herself and her strength grew and confidence, she just became MORE.
The storyline (which I don’t know how to talk about without spoiling the beginning) was everything, it kept me interested throughout, I literally read it in one sitting and could not put it down, there was always something happening, but somehow there was also little moments of cozy adorable interactions which I loved. The anticipation of what happens next never stopped, in the few moments of peace where the characters thought they could relax? Boom, something would happen. It was amazing.
The worldbuilding is also just purely beautiful. I knew there was an ‘outside of the library’ and I knew it would be big, but I guess it still seemed HUGE? My thinking is because it’s new to the characters, because it was much larger and open than what they were used to in the library, that’s why it seemed so huge to the reader (me) ? That’s my theory anyway. It was described beautifully though, like it seemed kind of post apocalyptic in a way, empty, bare, but being slowly repopulated and rebuilt. I loved this book so much thank you so much!
January 23, 2026
HER WHISPER SO SOFT AND BITTER by Elsie Hawthorne
Writing reviews for sequels is hard —one must tread carefully to avoid spoilers— but writing a review for a sequel as dark and lovely as this is even harder, since I'd like to discuss every detail on every page. I will, however, endeavour to do my best to share some quiet excitement without giving anything away.
After the first book's cliffhanger, I thought we couldn't go through another heart-stopping plot twist. Oh, sweet summer child (me), how wrong you were. The tension doesn't drop throughout the story, to the point that I didn't know how everything would be resolved until the very last pages.
What always gets me (or doesn't get me at all) in fantasy books is the setting. In Her Shadow, I craved to know more about the Court; and while this book does not illuminate its rooms further, I was so intrigued by the world outside the mountain. There's always something classic yet still full of potential in a dark forest full of creatures. The bonebreakers were the perfect addition.
And that takes me to my favourite part of this book: Thistle. As soon as Thistle appeared on the page, I knew my mental stability would depend on his well-being. I also loved Sabian and especially Ysa. Her struggles with her own perception, identity, and autonomy were equal parts relatable and heart-rending.
As always, I must dedicate a few words to Sila and Lorel, the dark and the light. Their dynamic is one of utter devotion to each other, especially throughout the many challenges and revelations along the way. I'll keep the secrets, but I'll say some discoveries in this book made many pieces from Her Shadow fully click into place.
I am very much looking forward to Lune's story in book 3, and —whether they are featured as main characters or we only get a glimpse of them in future books or novellas— every other character in this book. I am, once again, brimming with suspicions.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
"I'd have you however you are, monstrous or otherwise," I tell her seriously. "I meant what I said. I love you, and there isn't anything I wouldn't do, anyone I wouldn't become, to keep you."
Writing reviews for sequels is hard —one must tread carefully to avoid spoilers— but writing a review for a sequel as dark and lovely as this is even harder, since I'd like to discuss every detail on every page. I will, however, endeavour to do my best to share some quiet excitement without giving anything away.
After the first book's cliffhanger, I thought we couldn't go through another heart-stopping plot twist. Oh, sweet summer child (me), how wrong you were. The tension doesn't drop throughout the story, to the point that I didn't know how everything would be resolved until the very last pages.
What always gets me (or doesn't get me at all) in fantasy books is the setting. In Her Shadow, I craved to know more about the Court; and while this book does not illuminate its rooms further, I was so intrigued by the world outside the mountain. There's always something classic yet still full of potential in a dark forest full of creatures. The bonebreakers were the perfect addition.
And that takes me to my favourite part of this book: Thistle. As soon as Thistle appeared on the page, I knew my mental stability would depend on his well-being. I also loved Sabian and especially Ysa. Her struggles with her own perception, identity, and autonomy were equal parts relatable and heart-rending.
As always, I must dedicate a few words to Sila and Lorel, the dark and the light. Their dynamic is one of utter devotion to each other, especially throughout the many challenges and revelations along the way. I'll keep the secrets, but I'll say some discoveries in this book made many pieces from Her Shadow fully click into place.
I am very much looking forward to Lune's story in book 3, and —whether they are featured as main characters or we only get a glimpse of them in future books or novellas— every other character in this book. I am, once again, brimming with suspicions.
**Thank you to the author for the eARC. All opinions are my own**
Instagram: @librisinetenebris
January 24, 2026
One of my most anticipated releases this year and it lived up to all my hopes and dreams. To begin as someone who is always just slightly bitter I loved the title!
I was so so happy to be back in Sila and Lorel’s world/ minds.
Sila is the shadow baddie I didn’t know I needed! I love how protective of Lorel she is and how much more vulnerable she is in this book. I can’t get over how much of a shadow baddie she is as well as the lengths she’ll go to to protect those she loves. I love that she still finds time to try and journal all the knowledge. Always love the grumpy but loving character. (I’d love a book just from
Her POV just putting it out there)
Lorel really goes through a growth in this book and I was here for it. She grows into being a confident protective baddie in her own way too. I think it was beautiful to see her become more assertive and realize sometimes obedience just isn’t going to cut it and you have to take and ask for forgiveness later. I really enjoyed seeing more of her silly personality shine through.
I loved their little found family! Especially Ysa who as a person who doesn’t trust easily really felt seen in her. I loved that she has her own (mean) but sweet way of showing her care for those she holds close. Not surprised Lorel makes that list .
Now I’m going to take a minute for the writing because it was just incredible. The ways Lorel and Sila speak to each other and the writing of their innermost thoughts was perfection. It really conveyed to me the way they love each other and really how deeply and fiercely that love is!
Can’t wait to read more books in this world!
Thank you to Elsie Hawthorne for the ARC opportunity!
January 29, 2026
I’ve been waiting for this sequel, and I was not disappointed.
The first book left me wanting more, and ‘Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter’ definitely delivered. I absolutely loved this book.
After a big cliffhanger we continue to follow Sila and Lorel on their journey to the safe place. It’s fast-paced, sweet, and funny, with a good amount of spice.
It was great to see Lorel come to her true, confident self. Her growth was beautiful to watch.
I was also delighted to get more of Sila’s perspective. She’s a total shadow baddie with the softest heart to those who deserve it. Undeniably my favourite character here.
The world’s build up is amazing, and our characters’ continuous development made them even more likeable and easy to connect to. There’s a lot of action and discoveries, and the plot was so good I finished the book in one sitting, while constantly telling myself “just one more chapter”. Absolutely worth it.
We also meet a few new characters, which are only adding to the story with their rich personalities. Ysa, the grumpy snark queen, and Sabian, the loyal and loving friend everyone wish they’d had. As a pet lover, I was also immensely delighted with our pup — Thistle! Such a lovely creature. She stole my heart even more than I thought possible.
The ending was a beautiful closure for Sila and Lorel, and I’m going to miss this duo. I can’t wait for other book from Elsie Hawthorne, and I hope we’ll get to see them again, even if from a different POV.
Highly recommend!
I received an ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The first book left me wanting more, and ‘Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter’ definitely delivered. I absolutely loved this book.
After a big cliffhanger we continue to follow Sila and Lorel on their journey to the safe place. It’s fast-paced, sweet, and funny, with a good amount of spice.
It was great to see Lorel come to her true, confident self. Her growth was beautiful to watch.
I was also delighted to get more of Sila’s perspective. She’s a total shadow baddie with the softest heart to those who deserve it. Undeniably my favourite character here.
The world’s build up is amazing, and our characters’ continuous development made them even more likeable and easy to connect to. There’s a lot of action and discoveries, and the plot was so good I finished the book in one sitting, while constantly telling myself “just one more chapter”. Absolutely worth it.
We also meet a few new characters, which are only adding to the story with their rich personalities. Ysa, the grumpy snark queen, and Sabian, the loyal and loving friend everyone wish they’d had. As a pet lover, I was also immensely delighted with our pup — Thistle! Such a lovely creature. She stole my heart even more than I thought possible.
The ending was a beautiful closure for Sila and Lorel, and I’m going to miss this duo. I can’t wait for other book from Elsie Hawthorne, and I hope we’ll get to see them again, even if from a different POV.
Highly recommend!
I received an ARC, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this book. We follow Sila and Lorel on their journey to get to a safe place. I love how we join them right where the first book ended and as someone who read the first book only like a week before this, it felt like one bigger book which I really liked. It's incredibly fast paced, sexy, funny and sweet, and of course beautifully written.
We are joined by some new characters (and a lovely, cute little creature... THISTLE!!!). Even though they're only in this book I feel the author did a wonderful job at developing them into fully fleshed out characters that you easily connect to.
Ysa is a grumpy queen and Sabian is just golden retriever deluxe... I want more of their friendship and their own stories!!
I love how Lorel finds out more about herself and her magic and fully grows into herself. Cause in this one she's just as dangerous and powerful as Sila. If not MORE.
Getting more of Sila's perspective in this book is something I really enjoyed as well (she is my favourite character). She's a total baddie with the softest heart ever. I just love the way she loves Lorel in every single possible way. It's beautiful. I really think this is the perfect ending for Lorel and Sila's story and I am sad to say goodbye to them but I also cannot wait to get to Lune's story!
Thank you so much Elsie Hawthorne for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
We are joined by some new characters (and a lovely, cute little creature... THISTLE!!!). Even though they're only in this book I feel the author did a wonderful job at developing them into fully fleshed out characters that you easily connect to.
Ysa is a grumpy queen and Sabian is just golden retriever deluxe... I want more of their friendship and their own stories!!
I love how Lorel finds out more about herself and her magic and fully grows into herself. Cause in this one she's just as dangerous and powerful as Sila. If not MORE.
Getting more of Sila's perspective in this book is something I really enjoyed as well (she is my favourite character). She's a total baddie with the softest heart ever. I just love the way she loves Lorel in every single possible way. It's beautiful. I really think this is the perfect ending for Lorel and Sila's story and I am sad to say goodbye to them but I also cannot wait to get to Lune's story!
Thank you so much Elsie Hawthorne for sending me an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Arc copy received in exchange for an honest review.
Elsie Hawthorne did it again because this book was absolutely incredible as was book one.
First let’s start with the stars of the book Lorel and Sila. I absolutely loved that we got to see Lorel grow into her full potential and become confident in herself. On top of that the romance between the two is everything I’ve ever wanted. I absolutely love how obsessed they are with each other.
Now onto our new side characters who were very close to being my favorite part of this book. Ysa brought the hard truths and comments that had me laughing out loud. Then there’s Sabian, the golden retriever that we all need in our life. And last (and in my opinion the best) THISTLE! Thistle is the most lovable creature that I wanted to pop out of my kindle so I could snuggle him. I really hope and some point we can get a book from Sabians perspective and get more Thistle.
Finally I guess we should address the actual plot and not just the characters 😭. This book picked up right where book one ended and it was absolutely perfect. It had the perfect blend of romance and adventure and closed Lorel and Sila’s story in the best way possible. I’m going to miss them but I’m also so excited to follow Lune’s story and see what’s been going on in the citadel.
Elsie Hawthorne did it again because this book was absolutely incredible as was book one.
First let’s start with the stars of the book Lorel and Sila. I absolutely loved that we got to see Lorel grow into her full potential and become confident in herself. On top of that the romance between the two is everything I’ve ever wanted. I absolutely love how obsessed they are with each other.
Now onto our new side characters who were very close to being my favorite part of this book. Ysa brought the hard truths and comments that had me laughing out loud. Then there’s Sabian, the golden retriever that we all need in our life. And last (and in my opinion the best) THISTLE! Thistle is the most lovable creature that I wanted to pop out of my kindle so I could snuggle him. I really hope and some point we can get a book from Sabians perspective and get more Thistle.
Finally I guess we should address the actual plot and not just the characters 😭. This book picked up right where book one ended and it was absolutely perfect. It had the perfect blend of romance and adventure and closed Lorel and Sila’s story in the best way possible. I’m going to miss them but I’m also so excited to follow Lune’s story and see what’s been going on in the citadel.
January 16, 2026
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
I devoured this book in a day, because MY GOD did I miss my Librarian and her Scribe.
This was a beautiful conclusion to Lorel and Sila’s story. They both continue the pattern of “touch her and die” from the first book…and this time, Lorel is just as dangerous as Sila. The Scribe really grows into herself in the duet’s final book, and seeing her powers in their full, devastating glory is thrilling. Even as Sila unravels, the love between them only grows stronger, and I live for every second of it. As scary as they both become, the softness present in their moments alone together still makes me all warm and fuzzy. (And we get more detailed glimpses of the magic system and its gods thanks to Sila’s connection to the Dark Lady, which you know I’m a sucker for.)
This book’s best-side-character-duo award goes to Sabian and Thistle. I’ve only had Thistle for a day, but if anything happened to her, I would kill everyone in this room and then myself. And a man who loves animals so much he has a mini murder machine for a pet? Right up my alley.
I’m sad to say goodbye to Sila and Lorel, but I do hope we circle back to everyone we left behind in the Library and the Citadel (Mercias and Elris come home, the kids miss you). I can’t wait to see which part of this world we visit next.
I devoured this book in a day, because MY GOD did I miss my Librarian and her Scribe.
This was a beautiful conclusion to Lorel and Sila’s story. They both continue the pattern of “touch her and die” from the first book…and this time, Lorel is just as dangerous as Sila. The Scribe really grows into herself in the duet’s final book, and seeing her powers in their full, devastating glory is thrilling. Even as Sila unravels, the love between them only grows stronger, and I live for every second of it. As scary as they both become, the softness present in their moments alone together still makes me all warm and fuzzy. (And we get more detailed glimpses of the magic system and its gods thanks to Sila’s connection to the Dark Lady, which you know I’m a sucker for.)
This book’s best-side-character-duo award goes to Sabian and Thistle. I’ve only had Thistle for a day, but if anything happened to her, I would kill everyone in this room and then myself. And a man who loves animals so much he has a mini murder machine for a pet? Right up my alley.
I’m sad to say goodbye to Sila and Lorel, but I do hope we circle back to everyone we left behind in the Library and the Citadel (Mercias and Elris come home, the kids miss you). I can’t wait to see which part of this world we visit next.
January 18, 2026
Elsie Hawthorne has done it again in Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter: depictions of fierce, all encompassing love, medium stakes action and unique fantasy and magic systems.
Unfortunately, I think this was a case of right book wrong time for me. I normally love fantasy novels, especially ones with diverse representation and sapphic romance, however this one did not stick for me which is a shame given how much I enjoyed the first novel in this duology/series.
What fell short for me in this book was the medium to slow pacing and what felt like a lack of urgency and action at times. While I definitely saw aspects of this in the story, they just did not stand out to me as a reader.
Having said that, what this book does well is intimacy and character connection. Elsie has a beautiful way of forming relationships and portraying intense longing and love. I also enjoyed the introduction of new characters and how they helped move the story forward. Furthermore, the book is very stylistically well written as a whole.
While this book was not for me, I can definitely see why others would enjoy it.
Unfortunately, I think this was a case of right book wrong time for me. I normally love fantasy novels, especially ones with diverse representation and sapphic romance, however this one did not stick for me which is a shame given how much I enjoyed the first novel in this duology/series.
What fell short for me in this book was the medium to slow pacing and what felt like a lack of urgency and action at times. While I definitely saw aspects of this in the story, they just did not stand out to me as a reader.
Having said that, what this book does well is intimacy and character connection. Elsie has a beautiful way of forming relationships and portraying intense longing and love. I also enjoyed the introduction of new characters and how they helped move the story forward. Furthermore, the book is very stylistically well written as a whole.
While this book was not for me, I can definitely see why others would enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been sitting on the edge of my seat waiting to know what happens between Sila and Lorel. The Cliff hanger at the end of book one was met with a fantastic opening of book two and left off right where book one ended.
Elsie once again wrote such a beautiful book. A beautiful addition to the world Elsie is building. The Gothic / dark fantasy vibes were on point. Her writing style is enjoyable and easy to read. I finished this book so fast! It was so hard to put down!
I absolutely loved the new characters that were introduced in this book. Sabian and Ysa were so well written and brought a new view point to this dark yet beautiful world. Sabian and Thistle stole the show for me, and yes, Sabian did in fact make me c r y.
Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter was a beautiful conclusion to Lorel and Sila’s story. They both grow so much apart but also together as a couple. I loved getting to see Lorel believe in herself! We love growth like that in characters!
Thank you to Elsie for an ARC copy of her Whisper so Soft and Bitter!
Elsie once again wrote such a beautiful book. A beautiful addition to the world Elsie is building. The Gothic / dark fantasy vibes were on point. Her writing style is enjoyable and easy to read. I finished this book so fast! It was so hard to put down!
I absolutely loved the new characters that were introduced in this book. Sabian and Ysa were so well written and brought a new view point to this dark yet beautiful world. Sabian and Thistle stole the show for me, and yes, Sabian did in fact make me c r y.
Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter was a beautiful conclusion to Lorel and Sila’s story. They both grow so much apart but also together as a couple. I loved getting to see Lorel believe in herself! We love growth like that in characters!
Thank you to Elsie for an ARC copy of her Whisper so Soft and Bitter!
January 26, 2026
The followup to Her Shadow so Dark and Lovely absolutely does not disappoint. The dark atmosphere of the Citadel is traded for the unknown dark and foreign dangers of the fog filled forest. It is still so beautifully written that I did not want to put it down, though sleep did force me to do so at one point.
The relationship between Lorel and Sila is such a thing of beauty and sadness and it makes me yearn in the absolute best way. To see them both fight so hard for each other and pick the other up in times of need is just wonderful.
Elsie's talent for throwing twists and surprises into the narrative continues and will leave you wondering where the story might go at several points. This book most assuredly held up to the high standard set by its predecessor, and I absolutely implore you to get it.
The relationship between Lorel and Sila is such a thing of beauty and sadness and it makes me yearn in the absolute best way. To see them both fight so hard for each other and pick the other up in times of need is just wonderful.
Elsie's talent for throwing twists and surprises into the narrative continues and will leave you wondering where the story might go at several points. This book most assuredly held up to the high standard set by its predecessor, and I absolutely implore you to get it.
January 26, 2026
Book two of Elsie Hawthorne’s series, A Curse of Fallen Stars, does not disappoint! “Her Whisper So Soft and Bitter” follows Librarian Sila and Scribe Lorel after their escape from The Library and The Citadel, in book one “Her Shadow So Dark and Lovely.” The transition is seamless; the new book takes up right after that heart-stopping cliffhanger in the first volume. Sila and her shadows reappear at Lorel’s side shortly after this book begins, and it’s a good thing she does because Lorel needs all the help she can get. As Corus leads them away, the trio is beset with obstacles and doubts. Their journey to Corus’ home, and hopefully sanctuary, is a rough ride. And sanctuaries aren’t always safe, are they? New characters appear, allies and enemies. More obstacles crop up to be overcome. Sanctuary is fought for and saved. I sighed with relief at the end.
January 26, 2026
If you like me, we’re left shattered after finishing the first book, buckle up and get ready to pile on the hurt. Don’t fret too much because it will be worth it in the end, pinky promise!! I absolutely loved this duet! Sila and Lorel are everything. The new characters we meet along the way add so much to the storyline and will help melt your icy little heart! This book will keep you up way past your bedtime hanging on every word.
ARC Review - Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy of the book to read and review.
ARC Review - Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy of the book to read and review.
January 15, 2026
Well I smashed my way through this book! I absolutely adore Sila and Lorel’s journey and this sequel is 100% worth the wait. Fast paced and action packed it is a wonderful conclusion to their journey to freedom and will keep you glued to your seat!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review and I have given you one. If you haven’t started the series go back to the start, if you have then you should need no convincing to get this book!
I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review and I have given you one. If you haven’t started the series go back to the start, if you have then you should need no convincing to get this book!
January 27, 2026
I finished book 1 less than a week ago and I couldn't wait to read Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter.
I was not disappointed and happy to see Sila and Lorel get their happy ending I love the two of them so much.
I am curious if the story will ever be continued while parts of it are resolved and our heroines are happy together at the end there are some unresolved plot points between the two books some of them fairly large ones so this is the end of their story - for now anyways hopefully
I was not disappointed and happy to see Sila and Lorel get their happy ending I love the two of them so much.
I am curious if the story will ever be continued while parts of it are resolved and our heroines are happy together at the end there are some unresolved plot points between the two books some of them fairly large ones so this is the end of their story - for now anyways hopefully
February 1, 2026
Unique Sapphic Fantasy Tale
Right off the bat, Elsie gives us the unexpected in the first few chapters of this sequel. Together, Lorel and Sila fight to stay together and alive in this new world they have wound up in. The heat is no less hot between these two as they find their own pockets of time. This series is an easy recommendation to anyone looking for a new unique fantasy world that has surprises around every corner.
Right off the bat, Elsie gives us the unexpected in the first few chapters of this sequel. Together, Lorel and Sila fight to stay together and alive in this new world they have wound up in. The heat is no less hot between these two as they find their own pockets of time. This series is an easy recommendation to anyone looking for a new unique fantasy world that has surprises around every corner.
January 23, 2026
I didn't know I missed my nightmare of a librarian and her little mouse so much!
While the dynamic is different from book 1, the relationship between Sila and Lorel is so beautiful, you don't want to leave them at the end!
Great cast of (new) characters (including a very cute pup) and amazing plot.
It's always nice to see the characters grow and thrive.
While the dynamic is different from book 1, the relationship between Sila and Lorel is so beautiful, you don't want to leave them at the end!
Great cast of (new) characters (including a very cute pup) and amazing plot.
It's always nice to see the characters grow and thrive.
January 27, 2026
3.5
so incredibly disappointing in comparison to the first and so many story lines just left hanging. and i understand there’s another book from a different POV coming but how is that going to close storylines relating to lorel
so incredibly disappointing in comparison to the first and so many story lines just left hanging. and i understand there’s another book from a different POV coming but how is that going to close storylines relating to lorel
February 6, 2026
Another amazing novel from Elsie! I will leave a full review here soon!
Thank you for sending an e-ARC my way! I missed Sila and Lorel so much and am so happy to have been able to return to them!!
Thank you for sending an e-ARC my way! I missed Sila and Lorel so much and am so happy to have been able to return to them!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Perfection.
February 6, 2026
loved
The choices we make lead us to where we need to be. Love ever lasting transcends through time. Fulfilling life’s fate and finding your person also no the way.
The choices we make lead us to where we need to be. Love ever lasting transcends through time. Fulfilling life’s fate and finding your person also no the way.
Review of advance copy received from Author
'Her Whisper so Soft and Bitter' by Elsie Hawthorne is the second book in the duet 'A Curse Of Fallen Stars'. The book follows Lorel and Sila in their ongoing pursuit of freedom, but the outside world is not so different than the world of the Citadel. They are still on the run.
I loved the unexpected situations and challenges Lorel and Sila had to face. The atmosphere is as compelling and dark as in the first book, the environment changed, but not the tone of the story. I will not lie, I had high expectations for the sequel and it definitely delivered! The relations the two build with the new allies, the fears they have to conquer and the fiery love and devotion they have for one another are driving forces throughout the book and I adore it. I highly recommend this duet wholeheartedly!
I loved the unexpected situations and challenges Lorel and Sila had to face. The atmosphere is as compelling and dark as in the first book, the environment changed, but not the tone of the story. I will not lie, I had high expectations for the sequel and it definitely delivered! The relations the two build with the new allies, the fears they have to conquer and the fiery love and devotion they have for one another are driving forces throughout the book and I adore it. I highly recommend this duet wholeheartedly!
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