The Iron Hex

Iron Hex Trilogy #1

by Victoria S. Walsh

She doesn’t remember her past. But some memories come with a cost.

Eira Eckhart has spent years building a quiet life in a small town at the edge of a recently overthrown kingdom. Her memory is fractured, her past a blur—but with her shop, her loyal rabbit familiar, and practicing only the potions magic still legal under the watchful eye of the Iron Empire, she’s managed to remain unnoticed by the empire’s witch hunters.

Until Hugo Venton walks through her door.

Brash, clever, and infuriatingly handsome, Hugo is searching for something…and seems to know more about Eira than she knows about herself. But when a terrifying encounter with an unnatural, deadly new breed of soldier puts a price on her head, she has no choice but to join Hugo on his quest.

Their hunt for a missing princess pulls Eira across the continent—and deeper into a past she can’t recall. As buried memories, mysteries in the Iron Empire’s capital, forgotten feelings, and the truth behind her identity begin to surface, Eira realizes the forbidden magic simmering in her veins might be the very thing that could save them from the Iron Empire’s forces as they draw ever closer…if she can remember how to control it in time.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fiction, Adult, Witches, Fantasy Romance

400 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication August 4, 2026

About the author

Victoria S. Walsh is the author of The Iron Hex Trilogy. Born and raised in Ontario, Canada, she earned an honors BA in English and History from McMaster University. When Victoria isn’t writing she’s creating self love, fashion, and book content on social media under @victoriashaz. She spends her free time relaxing with her Westie, Obi-Wan Kenobi, gaming and cooking with her husband, expanding her fantastical wardrobe, or playing D&D with her friends and family. You can visit her online at www.victoriaswalsh.com

Reviews

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wrote this, and I think it’s pretty great 💃🏼

[suonnahbooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Iron hex by Victoria S. Walsh
ARC from harlequin audio
Release: Aug 4th 2026
-this world is so cool
-THE COVERRR 😍
-I love Ira and the shop, eating up this fantasy small town
-the rabbit 🥰🐇
-Hugo sounds fine and cool
-the tension / back and forth is chefs kiss
-this adventure is funnnn
-I’m eating up the potion making/ herbs 🌿 I find it so cool
-the memory gaps add a mystery element I love
-there were moments that felt long which disconnected me
-the magic is so cool and badass ngl
-also we love a curvy FMC
-this was very fun and intriguing I can’t to see how this series will continue
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

[Dadreadsanreviews (james) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks Net Galley for the early review copy! The Iron Hex brings together familiar tropes of Romantasy, epic fantasy, and YA banter. Walsh brings multiple story lines to paint the picture of a kingdom after a populist coup. Where magic is outlawed and witches are hunted. She brings together slow burn romance and yearning with action, adventure, and self discovery. The story is engaging, the romance is touching, and the politics crates for a real world feel.

Some things that pulled me out of the story were the vocabulary and resolution of tension. Thinks more of a personal feeling, but modern vocabulary and speech patterns often throw me in fantasy. This is not a slight on the author or story, but part of my reading experience. Walsh does a good job of crating tension between characters, but she often resolves the tension within the scene. I would love to see the anger, disappointment, fear, and betrayal last longer between scenes..

Overall, it is a wonderful debut with an engaging story with layers and threads to be resolved

[BookishKB]

🖤The Iron Hex 🖤

📖 Bookish Thoughts
Full review coming closer to release.

🪄What to Expect
• Outlawed magic
• Witch FMC
• Guard MMC
• Enemies to allies to lovers
• Memory loss
_ _ _
📅 Pub Date: August 4, 2026
📝 Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Gabby Dinsmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Iron Hex starts off feeling almost cozy and magical, then slowly tightens the screws until I was way too emotionally invested and honestly a little mad it was over. The magic here feels old and rooted, more unsettling than flashy, and the atmosphere really carries that through from start to finish.

Eira is exactly the kind of main character I always root for, soft in some ways, steel in others, and clearly carrying more history than she’s ready to face. It took me a minute to fully settle into the characters, but once I did, I was locked in. The relationships build naturally, and the tension simmers in a way that keeps everything feeling just slightly off-balance.

I also loved how the story takes its time. It’s not fast-paced, but it works. The world expands gradually, getting bigger and messier while that underlying unease keeps creeping in.

By the end, I was completely in and already counting down for book two.

Thank you Mira (HTP) , NetGalley and Victoria S Walsh for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

[ChronicallyYou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Victoria S. Walsh, MIRA, and NetGalley for the ARC!

The Iron Hex is an epic fantasy romance (with a hint of cozy) that completely swept me away, and then left me staring at the wall in shock and longing for book two when it ended.

From the very first pages, Victoria delivers a world that feels both expansive and intimate. Eira Eckhart is a powerful FMC: a plus-size potions witch who is sweet as pie, resilient to her core, and carrying a past she can’t remember. Her fractured memories, magic, and desire for a peaceful life under an oppressive empire create an emotional tension that hums beneath every chapter.

One of my favorite aspects of this book is the multiple POVs and dual storylines. The Eira/Hugo arc is layered with adventure, longing, and aching restraint, while Sir Rhona’s storyline is filled with her unwavering morals, love of knighthood to the Iron Empire, and partnership with the sharp and noble Maeve. Rhona's POV adds depth, a view into the realities of the Iron Empire, and a powerful exploration of honor in a man-ruled world. Watching these storylines slowly gravitate toward each other was truly phenomenal storytelling.

Hugo is a fascinating, tortured character. He's haunted not only by the secrets he keeps, but also by what he has done in the name of the Iron Empire. The yearning between him and Eira is top-tier: quiet looks, loaded silences, and moments that had me absolutely feral when they finally paid off. And yes, there is a sassy as hell side character (unnamed for spoiler reasons) who nearly stole the show and had me laughing out loud.

Reading this book during the Minneapolis ICE protests added an additional emotional weight. The Iron Empire’s control through fear and sanctioned brutality felt uncomfortably familiar. When Maeve projects, "I suppose it’s not surprising that those who incited a violent uprising would choose to use violence as a primary source of education" it perfectly captures how power justifies cruelty while calling it order. When ordered to potentially torture a prisoner, Rhona’s reflection that it was her duty to protect the Iron Empire, not to torture people further highlights the moral fracture between service and complicity. What makes this so effective is that Victoria never bludgeons the reader with commentary. These moments live naturally within making the story feel deeply relevant without losing its sense of wonder.

The twists had me cackling one minute and yelling the next, and the ending? Absolute emotional damage. I was not okay. Still am not okay.

Knowing this is a debut makes The Iron Hex all the more impressive. It’s a story about reclaiming power, embracing both softness and strength, and choosing who you become even when your past is lost or dangerous. I originally followed Victoria for her body positivity; now I’m following her as an auto-buy author.

[kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the billionth time, I am not a fantasy reader let alone a romantasy one, but here I am again. I follow Victoria Walsh on Instagram and her self-love platform has helped me with my own body confidence and love for my curves. I have seen her posts progressive through this novel from drafts to editing to starting the second book, and now her debut is out. I knew I had to read it and I’m honoured to have the ARC.

(And she’s a fellow Canadian). This reading and review is one curvaceous goddess supporting another.

My points are in no particular order:

So, one of my gripes with fantasy novels is that I find that so many of them are just a slew of world-building lore at once that I cannot be bothered to remember and, a lot of the time, aren’t important. In this book, it’s simple. Details and lore are given to the readers in pieces and spread throughout the book, when it relevant to the part that’s about to happen. I greatly appreciate that from The Iron Hex.

It’s quick-paced, adventure-filled, romantic, magical, cozy—and it all works so well together.

I also loved how there were aspects of more modern prose, notably the dialogue, where the language present wasn’t so olden or fantastical. For instance, it was cool to see the words “ale” and “tavern” while also having characters say “yeah.” It was a wonderful blend that I know a lot of people aren’t fond of when reading fantasy, but I, an infamous contemporary reader, applaud it.

Pennyroyal was such a little sassy cutie. I debated if the rabbit here actually counted as an enchanted creature for the prompts … but once I got to that halfway point … I won’t spoil it but I love what the reveal we got there. This book was full of amazing twists. I tried to guess them as I read and got super close to some, but not exact.

I adored the characters. Eira and Hugo? Hot. Amazing chemistry. A man who yearns and is protective and cherishes his curvaceous lady? A slow burn with a past she can’t remember and he can’t tell her but they slow let fall in love again? Both of them on an adventure? Y E S. (My boyfriend says Sir Rhona is hot and I agree). I love how both sides of the story, Eira/Hugo and Sir Rhona showed up both the characters and the Iron Empire. They were woven so well and I can’t wait for them to cross paths one day.

Back to tropes for a second, I got ones I love and more—one bed, princess x guard (close enough, times two but iykyk), the tending to wounds while shirtless, fake husband and wife covers, etc. I won’t drone on but let you read for yourself. I can’t see what other ideas are in the series as well as Walsh’s next books.

Also, that cliffhanger at the end? Emotionally diabolical. (I loved it).

Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC!

✨💜Taylor Swift Readathon: Speak Now💜✨
Enchanted - A Book with Magical Creatures

[Deanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Iron Hex ⭐️ ⭐️.5
Rating: 2.5 stars rounded up to 3.

Iron Hex follows Eira as she becomes entangled in a dangerous magical conflict, forced into close proximity with the brooding and secretive Hugo—whose past and loyalties are far more complicated than they first appear. As tensions rise and truths come to light, Eira must navigate shifting alliances, hidden agendas, and a romance that’s meant to burn just as intensely as the magic surrounding them.

I was really drawn in by the premise—there’s a lot here that should have worked for me. A fantasy setting with high stakes, layered characters, and a bodyguard-style dynamic is exactly my kind of story. Unfortunately, the execution just didn’t quite land.

One of the biggest issues for me was Rone’s POV. It felt unnecessary and didn’t add much to the overall story or emotional depth. Instead of enhancing the narrative, it often pulled me out of it and slowed the pacing.

I also found the characters, overall, didn’t stand out as much as I had hoped. While there were interesting elements to each of them, none felt especially distinct or memorable, which made it harder to fully invest in their journeys.

The central romance between Hugo and Eira also fell flat for me. Their chemistry felt underdeveloped, and I never fully believed in their connection. The spice, rather than adding tension or emotional weight, felt disconnected from the story and didn’t contribute much to their relationship or the plot.

I also struggled with the Evangeline/Hugo storyline. The reveal and its implications didn’t fully make sense in the context of their actions, and it left me with more confusion than impact. Given how significant it was supposed to be, it ultimately felt underwhelming.

Another aspect that didn’t quite land for me was the handling of the murdered witches. This felt like a major plot point with serious emotional and narrative weight, but it ultimately seemed to be brushed aside too quickly, without the depth or attention it deserved.

Overall, this is a book that reached for something compelling but didn’t quite get there for me. There’s definitely potential in the concept, and I can see how other readers might enjoy it more, but unfortunately, it just wasn’t for me.

Thank you to NetGalley ,Victoria Walsh, and the publisher Harlequin Trade Publishing and MIRA for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[madi ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story about a potions witch without her memories & the guard that’s been in love with her for years?? I’m obsessed.

Genuinely the best debut novel I have ever read & Victoria’s characters have absolutely blown me away.

We have Eira who is soft, gentle, and still a badass when she needs to be, with a rabbit companion who stole my heart from the beginning.

Hugo is protective, broody, and has a way with words that I don’t know how Eira wasn’t all over him from the second he walked in the door.

This was full of twists and turns, and kept my eyes glued to the page the entire time. The romance was beautiful; the storyline was fantastic. Prepare to fall in love with Eira & Hugo!

Thanks to Netgalley for the advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest review 🩷

[Samantha Westphal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the author, and I’m sharing my honest review!
I absolutely adored this book. From the very beginning, it pulled me in with its energy, tension, and immersive storyline - I genuinely found myself sneaking in extra pages and sometimes completely ignoring my responsibilities just to see what would happen next.

Eira is such a compelling main character - strong without ever losing her humility or kindness. She feels grounded and real in a way that makes you immediately root for her. Evangeline is exactly what you want in a best friend: stubborn, fiercely protective, and loyal.

And Hugo… he brings that irresistible “touch her and you die” energy, but what stood out most to me was how genuine and safe his love for Eira feels. That balance made their dynamic especially satisfying to read.

I also really enjoyed the multiple POV, particularly Rhona’s perspective. Watching her come into the truth of what’s happening within the Iron Retinue added another layer of tension, and I’m so intrigued to see where her story goes next.

Overall, this was an addictive, emotionally engaging read with characters I truly cared about - and I’ll be very eagerly waiting to see what happens next!!!

[Kaitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up

I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, I think the author did a solid job with the premise, and created a distinct cast of characters. On the other hand, the pacing felt off, the dialogue didn't quite match the setting, and there were some major plot issues. I wasn't surprised to find out this book was a debut (and I suspect the author will be able to improve some of these issues in her next book).

I didn't mind the alternating POVs, but did find one character (Rhona) unnecessary. I think her POV in particular made the first half of the book feel slow. Her scenes also fell into the classic trap of not advancing the plot early in the book. I think the book would've been stronger without her POV, but it seems likely she'll be a more important character in the next installment.

In terms of plot issues, there were a few things that really threw me off. Prime among them was the fact Hugo was implicated in the deaths of many witches, and yet Eira is content to console herself that he is working on himself, so she forgives him. An insane level of "I can fix him" - I would've preferred she be a bit more conflicted about falling in love with a man who killed others of her kind (even if he didn't directly kill the women, but even that is unclear).

To that end, this book tonally is a weird mix of cozy fantasy and hard fantasy - which is to say, the mass killing of witches across the society is bloodless and glossed over. We are told witches were killed, we are shown family members who are mad their witch relatives were killed, and yet, the magnitude of the killings feels neutered (which is part of the reason why Eira is able to fall in love with Hugo - it feels like no one cares much that witches were killed?).

Furthermore, the timeline of events and the reasoning for witch hunting in this world were incredibly muddy. At one point, we're told the Iron Empire is installed three years prior after an uprising, but at another point, it's implied witch executions happened prior to the Iron Empire. Yet, at the same time, the prior monarchy was mentioned as being incredibly witch-friendly, going so far as to rely on seers to keep themselves in power. As a result, it's unclear even why witches were hunted, and I wish there had been a clearer explanation.

The romance between Eira and Hugo was fine - I didn't find myself particularly invested, but it didn't detract from the story. I did find the way that Eira's body was described to be slightly annoying. It was overly body positive, for lack of a better description. It felt like every man Eira encountered instantly fell into lust over her voluptuous body, which felt a bit unrealistic, and there was an overemphasis on her curves/plus size body during the spicy scenes. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate the plus size representation, it just could've been a bit more subtle in my opinion.

While the twist of Eira's father being the Lord General was a solid plot twist, the reveal at the very end when Eira gets her memory back that Hugo was meant to kill Evangeline fell incredibly flat. Eira knew Hugo was supporting the Iron Empire this whole time, why is it a stretch for her to accept he previously had orders to kill Evangeline? Furthermore, he didn't try to kill Evangeline at any point during their travels together, so clearly something about his priorities changed (otherwise he could've killed her at any point). I think it would've been much more compelling for the reveal to have been Hugo killing someone or playing a part in killing someone Eira cared about, but I don't think the author could've rehabilitated his character going forward, but the stakes of the story suffer as a result.

With all the above said, I think many readers will enjoy this book more than I did, and I think many readers will go on to read the next installment. The premise is strong, the execution is a little rocky, but that is likely to improve in future books. Readers who are looking for a bodyguard romance in fantasy setting should give this book a try, and perhaps not focus too much on the finer points of the plot.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the premise of The Iron Hex, but the characters and the story didn’t really work for me.

The book is told from three POVs, Eira, Hugo, and Rhona. The former two make sense; Hugo shows up where Eira is living, tells her she’s in danger, and they both flee. Oh, and Hugo knows her but she doesn’t know him, because she’s a witch who cast a memory spell on herself that didn’t come undone when it was supposed to.

Hugo was not just looking for Eira, he was also looking for her best friend Evangeline, a princess and the last member of her family remaining after a coup that Hugo has now betrayed. So.

Meanwhile Rhona is a knight in the Iron Empire, cheerfully and blindly doing anything Lord General Kerrigan asks of her until she crosses paths with Lady Maeve, a witch in hiding, who helps to course correct everything Rhona believes. The book goes back and forth between these two storylines and it isn’t until the last few pages of the book that the reader sees how Rhona will interconnect with Eira, Hugo, and the third member of their party. This may play out just fine over the course of a trilogy, but it makes this first book seem really disjointed.

I struggled with the characters too. Eira technically isn’t a helpless female, but she acts a lot like one. Hugo is a self-flagellating hypocrite who regrets his past, demands that Eira tell him everything she knows, while keeping secrets from her. And in the latter half of the book they are annoyingly lovesick and self sacrificing for each other.

The third member that joins the pair is imperious and snotty, and spends most of the time the group is together bickering and sniping with Hugo, and since he’s in love with Eira, it’s not in a fun romantic tension type of way. More like the way kindergartners antagonize each other.

Rhona came off like a doltish sheep for most of this book, like she’s so incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have the life she wants and not the one her parents intended for her, that she’s willing to do whatever is asked of her without questioning whether she should or not. Which means most of her part of the book is her slowly, very slowly being convinced otherwise.

The other storyline seems a bit of a bumble too, with the goal finally seemingly landing on finding a memory witch to help Eira get her memory back. Girl, I get it, but both people with you know who you were before, and there is a very bad dude sending zombie knights after you and into the kingdom. Priorities don’t really seem to be in the right place here.

Finally, and this was a personal pet peeve for me, is that there are a lot of reminders throughout the book that Eira is a curvy woman. I think it’s great that author Walsh wants to have a female protagonist who actually looks like more normal women, but I’ve read plenty of books where this message has been conveyed well to give me a sense of the character’s appearance without being reminded with a description of ample curves, thick thighs, and full breasts every third chapter. It feels unnecessary, and it actually took me out of the feelings the characters had for each other to her appearance instead.

I think Walsh has room for growth in her storytelling to make it richer, more immersive and better interconnected, but I didn’t get those things from this particular book.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tabitha Malinowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review
When I received this ARC, I was over the moon with excitement. The reason being is because I happened to be a follower of Victoria S. Walsh of her usual content. That content being body positivity, her sense of fashion, and her giving the vibes of a fantasy goddess. So, when she announced she was making her debut as an author, I jumped at the opportunity to get an advanced copy. Which I'm so glad that I did!

This novel was an epic fantasy romance. The banter was witty with our grumpy MMC. I very much enjoyed the lore of it all. The world building was given in bits and pieces throughout the book; instead, it was thrown all at once at the start. The magic system was also intriguing; it was simple to comprehend. I love learning about the "Flow" Not only that there were also three POVs.

Yes, three! All within the same timeline.

Obviously, we have the two perspectives of our love interests. The MMC and FMC, but also a side character. That side character being a lady knight. Even though it's explained early on within like the first couple of chapters. She doesn't necessarily go by her gender, that growing up others have seen her as more masculine. Which is why she goes by Sir Rhona.

When we get the Knights POV, it’s to provide us readers a grounded, internal perspective on what is going on within the Iron Empire. Which I very much liked seeing those parts of the story that might have remained untold if we didn’t get a third POV. Sir Rhona’s POV is the counterpoint to the magical and mystery POV of our FMC, the main character, Eira. So, it was absolutely necessary and needed.

She also has another by her side, our other side character Maeve who is a fierce and loyal character throughout the storyline.

When it comes to the love interest the MMC Hugo he brings in the knowledge of everything that is happening. Unfortunately, our FMC Eira is foggy. He navigates us readers, even our FMC on this quest across the continent. All while protecting Eira from the Iron Empire who has outlawed magic and witches who use it. I absolutely adored how much he yearned for her. The slow burn had me even yearning for the romance to blossom.

Our main character, the FMC Eira POV is a plus-sized “potions” witch; which of course made me automatically fall in love with her character. It is rare and unique to have such a character with her build plus, be the FMC in a romance. I would expect nothing less from the author who is a body positive icon on all social platforms.

I loved her perspective, due to it always seeming like a puzzle with her fractured memories. She also had a bit of yearning too for the MMC. Though she couldn’t understand why and he seemed familiar to her.

Another thing I enjoyed was how easily I became attached and immersed into the world of the novel. It sent me on a continuous rollercoaster of emotions. Especially with how the novel ended. THAT CLIFFHANGER! OMG! Literally has me pacing back and forth with anticipation for the second book in this trilogy. My mind keeps thinking of the endless possibilities of what will happen next.

With this being her debut novel, I think she did just an excellent job. She has a talent and I can't wait to see what other written work she will come up with after this trilogy.

[Thio Moss · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eira Eckhart doesn’t yet know it, but her small, happy village life—running her potions shop, evenings at the tavern, and cuddles with her rabbit, Pennyroyal—is built on a deception. Hugo, a mysterious wanted man, takes her on a journey to uncover the truth.

Rhona is a knight of the Iron Retinue dedicated to her duty. She begins doubting her cause, however, when she discovers that the beautiful Lady Maeve is a witch. Soon, everything she believed is in flux and, if she’s not careful, she—like so many other knights—will mysteriously disappear in the night.

The Iron Hex takes on the challenge of telling one story from two very different perspectives and does so successfully, with clean transitions between points of view. However, the narrative takes some time to demonstrate why this structure was necessary. Eira and Hugo’s storyline can feel repetitive, often revolving around arriving in a new town only to be attacked again, while Rhona and Maeve’s storyline benefits more directly from the slower development of trust before the story can move forward.

The character development feels somewhat uneven at first but solidifies into a more compelling dynamic after the first few close calls. Once Evangeline is introduced, the dialogue gains additional texture and depth.

Rhona feels unfinished to me. She loves being a knight and rationalizes both her relationship with Maeve and her investigation into inconsistencies within the Iron Retinue to the point where deceiving her superiors seems patriotic. It’s good that she questions things, but she bends a little too easily and too quickly.

There are a few conveniences in the plot, and though I’ve been critical in places, I did enjoy the story. Tackling multiple points of view inevitably creates some friction, and Ms. Walsh handles that challenge well. The dual perspectives enrich the world considerably. The pacing lags here and there, but not without purpose.

Ms. Walsh is also very clever in how she closes the story. Rhona is already off on a new adventure, and we have no idea how that will go now that her guide is beyond reach. Eira and Hugo have accomplished their two most important tasks, but the consequences create entirely new difficulties. Readers will already be invested in the second book.

The Iron Hex will likely appeal to arcanepunk fantasy readers who enjoy medieval settings, political intrigue, frantic journeys with narrow escapes, and science gone wrong. It’s a solid, engaging story that takes some risks and delivers a few satisfying twists.

Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for the opportunity to read this story. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley, and I am writing this review voluntarily.

[Cris Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into this story expecting a fairly familiar “lost past + magic + empire” setup, but it surprised me in how character-driven it felt. Eira is the kind of protagonist I tend to latch onto quickly—guarded, a little detached, but clearly carrying something heavy beneath the surface. Her fractured memory isn’t just a plot device; it genuinely shapes how she moves through the world, and I liked how that uncertainty lingers instead of being quickly resolved.
The small-town opening was especially cozy in contrast to the larger stakes that unfold later. There’s something really appealing about her quiet life—the shop, the careful use of limited magic, and her rabbit familiar (which honestly deserves more appreciation). That sense of fragile normalcy makes everything that follows feel more disruptive.
Hugo’s entrance shifts the tone immediately. He’s charming in an irritating way that works well against Eira’s restraint, and while their dynamic leans into familiar banter, it doesn’t feel too forced. I appreciated that their relationship develops alongside the plot rather than overtaking it.
The worldbuilding is intriguing, particularly the idea of regulated magic under an oppressive empire. The witch hunters and the introduction of the altered soldiers add a darker edge that raises the stakes effectively. At times, I did wish for a bit more depth in how the empire functions on a day-to-day level, but the broader concepts are compelling enough to carry the story forward.
What stood out most to me was the gradual uncovering of Eira’s identity. The pacing of those reveals works well—they’re spaced out just enough to keep the tension without becoming frustrating. By the time the story reaches the capital, everything starts to feel more urgent, and the emotional weight finally catches up with the action.
Overall, this felt like a strong blend of cozy fantasy beginnings and higher-stakes adventure. It doesn’t completely reinvent the genre, but it leans into its strengths—character, mystery, and slow-burn revelations—in a way that kept me invested. I’d definitely continue with the series, especially to see how Eira grows into her magic and what that ultimately means for the empire.

Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC!

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Iron Hex tells its story through three distinct perspectives — Eira Eckhart, a potion-shop owner whose quiet village life conceals a deeper deception, Hugo Venton, a mysterious, cunning, and fiercely protective commander in the Iron Retinue, and Rhona, a knight of the Iron Retinue whose loyalty begins to fracture when she encounters the enchanting Lady Maeve. It is an ambitious structure, and Walsh handles the dual narratives with reasonable skill, though not without friction.
The world itself is promising — magic outlawed, witches persecuted, and the embers of revolt quietly smoldering beneath the surface. The multiple perspectives enrich that world considerably, and Walsh closes the story cleverly, leaving both storylines suspended in ways that will pull readers toward the second book.
That said, the execution is uneven. Eira and Hugo's storyline grows repetitive, cycling through a familiar pattern of arriving somewhere new only to be attacked again. Rhona's arc suffers differently—she bends to new revelations a little too quickly and too easily for a character so defined by her convictions. Her rationalizations, while understandable, rob her of the complexity she deserves. Character development across the board feels shallow in the early chapters, though it deepens meaningfully once Evangeline enters the story.
The book's most persistent struggle is tonal. The characters read younger than their apparent ages suggest, with interactions that feel more suited to a young adult audience—yet the story occasionally reaches toward clearly adult territory, including an intimate scene that feels jarring and out of place given the surrounding tone. Rather than enriching the narrative, it leaves the reader uncertain about who this book is written for.
Small conveniences in the plot and uneven pacing add to that uncertainty—though the pacing, to Walsh's credit, rarely stalls without purpose.
The Iron Hex is a solid, engaging debut with genuine strengths—a richly imagined world, satisfying twists, and a closing chapter that earns real anticipation for what comes next. It simply needs to decide, with more confidence, what kind of story it wants to be and who it wants to speak to.

[Fatima · Rating 4 out of 5]

•• I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing & NetGalley for the chance to arc. This is my Review and my honest thoughts.••

Witches, knights, battles, a female knight, secrets, a rabbit companion, betrayal, memory loss, a journey, romance, a DR., plot twist, and a lingering war that hangs in the air. This is a multiple POV between Eira, Hugo, and Rhona. The story is a slow buildup as it is putting down the groundwork for the plot. Can I just say I love the fact that Eira had a sassy rabbit companion! Pennyroyal is absolutely endearing, sassy, and just fits Eira wonderfully. Even the rabbit has its own backstory and I enjoyed that! As the book develops you even get insight into the General and the truth behind his motives and his nefarious plans with Dr. Balet. I think the book did wonderfully in giving every character the chance to appear and be part of the story without dismissing them or taking over.


Eira Eckhart is an alchemist potions with that suffered an accident three years ago that has left her with a vacant memory. She lives happily in Ciliren with her companion Pennyroyal running a potions shop. It all changed when she meets a charming, mysterious, and handsome man looking for a spell, Hugo. Hugo, a former guard and personally aquatinted with the Iron guard finds Eira. He slowly reveals there's more to them meeting in her shop and the journey to help Eira, protect her, find help for her memory, and in search of the true heir to the kingdom. They journey is a long one, filled with secrets, risks, battles, and truth dropping left and right. Even through it all Hugo realizes his feelings for Eira and slowly their relationship blossoms to more than just mere brushes or accidental touches.

While that is happening at the same time you meet Rhona, a female knight in the Iron Retinue, she envisioned more of her life in the guard than just watching over nobility. She ends up suspicious of lady Maeve Heathecote, who also has her own secrets. They form plans, a friendship, trust, an leave the door open for a potential romance. Which I think is sweet and honestly hoping they get more time together because they both deserve it!

[Mariah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A definitive women centered style dungeons and dragons adventure with a witch trying to find her way after her kingdom has been subject to a darker rule. Her trusty rabbit companion is just one of the cutest little adventurers you will meet in this story. An adventure of courageous heart and true spirit of pursuit of self. A romance with character’s with real chemistry – a testament to her creating great personalities and strong dialogue. Every step of this adventure is full of magic, lore, and maybe a battle.
Eira is the heroine we did not know we needed – as she stands between the witches path and the Iron Hex Kingdom. She learns to rediscover herself as she battles her memory loss amidst the takeover of the kingdom. There is a lot to learn about yourself when you are unwilling to let yourself falter. A quest that really has her discovering herself, her desires, and maybe a seductive interest along the way. There is a sense of camaraderie and fighting against evil empires. A commentary on the way we must prevail in the wake of the current situation in reality.
Fantastical story telling that shows Walsh takes her time to really show us what this kingdom looks like. Dual perspectives that slightly change the kingdom based on how they interact with the world around them. Readers will be introduced to the full scope of this fantasy world that it is beginning of a long battle. An ending with a cliffhanger that keeps you wanting more. What will happen next in Eira’s adventure’s?
A woman can love an elaborate dress and still carry a dagger with a hint of magic to fight her way to her salvation. This is a story about taking your power and really embracing it. A medium-paced writing style that keeps you consistently engaged and wanting more without giving too much away in each character. Pay close attention to the dialogue to really immerse yourself in this quest. Thank you Victoria Walsh, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Netgalley for this advanced digital copy. All opinions are my own.

Visit my blog for more tarot readings, recommendations, and reviews here, https://brujerialibrary.wordpress.com/

[⊹ ࣪ ˖ Nikkireads ⊹ ࣪ ˖ · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a strong and engaging start to the series, and I really enjoyed my time with it. The worldbuilding immediately pulled me in, particularly the presence and influence of the Iron Empire, which looms heavily over the story and adds an oppressive, high stakes atmosphere that constantly shapes the characters’ choices.

The dual perspectives of Eira and Hugo worked especially well for me. Their dynamic, the gradual build of trust, and the underlying yearning added emotional depth and tension to the story. I also really loved that Eira is a strong female lead who can fully take care of herself, yet that strength never diminishes Hugo’s instinct to protect her.

While I appreciated what it added to the broader plot, Rhonas’ perspective didn’t resonate with me as much, and I felt the story could have stood just as well without it (don’t come for me).

The magic system is one of the strongest aspects of the book. It’s intricate, and carries real consequences if you’re a known witch, you’re executed, and those who survive are forced to hide their powers. The rule of the Iron Empire, combined with witch hunters, forbidden magic, and constant danger, keeps the tension high throughout.

Another compelling and darker aspect of the story is the rot, along with the disturbing experiments being carried out by a doctor under the Empire’s control. What begins as experimentation on prisoners gradually escalates, with victims later being taken at night and transformed into terrifying creatures. This storyline adds a layer of horror and unease that deepens the stakes and reinforces just how cruel the Empire truly is.

I also loved the inclusion of an animal familiar, which added warmth and charm to an otherwise tense and dangerous world. Also can we talk about the cover? It’s stunning!

Overall, this was an immersive and well paced romantasy with a compelling FMC, strong emotional undercurrents, and a thoughtfully constructed magical system. I’m excited to continue the series and see how the Iron Empire, the characters, and the world continue to unfold.

Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one pulled me in quietly and then did not let go.

The Setup
Eira Eckhart has built a quiet life as a potions witch in a small town, keeping her magic limited. With fractured memories and an empire that hunts witches, staying unnoticed is everything. But when Hugo Venton walks into her shop and seems to know more about her than she does, her carefully controlled life starts to fall apart. What follows is a journey across the empire, a search for a missing princess, and a slow unraveling of who Eira really is.

The World
The Iron Empire is harsh, controlled, and constantly watching. Magic is forbidden, and witches are hunted, which adds tension to even the smallest moments. The world building is easy to settle into, with just enough detail to feel immersive without slowing the story down.

The Characters
This is told through three points of view Eira, Hugo, and Rhona, and it really works.
Eira is feisty, guarded, and trying to make sense of a past she cannot remember
Hugo brings mystery and tension. He is clever, frustrating, and clearly hiding things, which made every interaction with Eira feel layered.
Rhona was a standout for me. She is loyal, awkward, and genuinely wants to do good within a broken system, and her perspective added a lot of depth to the story.

The Vibes
Romantasy with yearning
Memory loss and hidden identity
Forbidden magic
Slow reveals and unraveling secrets
Cozy moments mixed with rising danger
Plus sized main character representation

The Romance
The romance builds slowly and leans into tension, trust, and uncertainty. There are two spicier scenes, but they feel intentional and fit naturally into the story rather than taking it over. It is more about the emotional buildup than constant romance, which I really appreciated.

Final Thoughts
I loved how the story unfolds piece by piece. It felt like solving a puzzle alongside Eira, which kept me fully engaged.

Overall, this is a strong debut with a compelling setup, magic, character driven storytelling, and just enough mystery to keep you turning pages. I am definitely curious to see where book two goes next.
4.5 stars

[Eden Chung · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay- I overall enjoyed this! The whole “finding yourself when you don’t have your memories” is so well written! The inner dialogues of the characters are so beautifully portrayed!!

First, I REALLY REALLY REALLY wanted to love this one, it gave me A Curse So Dark And Lonely (book 2, forced proximity with fairytale elements) and Heartless Hunter vibes (witch x ex-witch hunter) and THAT SOUNDS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING

However it was marketed AS YOUNG ADULT…. hello!!!! There are 2 explicitly bed scenes! I have nothing against spice, but just don’t market it as YA! If it was market as New Adult, I wouldn’t have a problem!!

The pacing felt weird, sometimes it was too fast and sometimes too slow. The romance felt unbelievable like I don’t know… Hugo was so protective but didn’t tell her anything and when Eira finds out everything she gets so mad, I thought they were gonna break up at least six times 😭😭😭

I did like the side characters SO MUCH (not as fond of Rhona though, her only characteristic was her manliness but I loved her inner turmoil) and some parts were adorable I LOVED the plot twists and it read really fast!!

The only other thing that icked me was that the first time Eira and Hugo did it he kept commenting on her “love handles” and her “soft pouch” (stomach) GIRL WHAT NO

Other than that, it was enjoyable, fast paced, and fun! I flew through it and the writing was easy to digest. One more thing, this would’ve been AMAZING in first person.

Anyways, I’ll stop spewing negative things. Some things I really liked was the actually premise. The losing the memory part was so fun as Eira tried to piece parts of her past life and her current life. The whole world was very well thought out, I loved the villain motives and INSANE PLOT TWISTS I did not see coming (throughout the whole book which loved!) and I loved the side characters, villains, and what not! THE CLIFFHANGER WAS DIABOLICALL

Will read book two because although I didn’t love this one as much as I hoped, I loved the world, some characters, plot line, and the author!! Plus I’m so invested, expecting book two to be much more up my alley!

Arc gotten from B&N Bookfest 2026

[fannousa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I finally finished! This book really dragged on for me, but there were some parts that I really enjoyed.

The Iron Hex is about Eira, a potions witch who only remembers the past three years of her life. One day, her former bodyguard and now they must go on a quest to recover her memory.


I really enjoyed the premise of the book, but I just wish there was more to it. Both the world and the characters felt a little lackluster to me. I think the kingdom of Astra is really interesting, especially because we are put three years into a tyrannical coup. I wish we got more about how the coup happened and how the Iron Guard changed the structure of the kingdom to a more military-run state. I also wish we had learned more about the magic system. i never really understood why magic was such a taboo, if it wasn't banned before why did eira never talk about it? Also, why can she use more than one type of magic- I feel as if there is no inkling of a reason given yet.

The characters also lacked a certain level of depth. I wasn't really invested in Hugo and Eira's relationship. I wanted to learn more about how they were together before the memory loss. I just felt that there was some chemistry missing. I also wished we got more from Evangeline, or at least her POV. I think it is so interesting that she was a rabbit shapeshifter and was forced to spend almost all her time as a rabbit. How did it affect her psyche? Her body? The trauma and the implications of it are just kind of glossed over.

As for Rhonda, I warmed up to her towards the end, but I felt like her POV didn't really add anything to the plot. We got all the weird vibes of the experimentation from the interludes. Maybe it was just a lot of set-up for the next book? But her chapters were borderline excessive when I wanted to see more from Eira and Hugh.



I would recommend this to anyone looking for a fantasy read with just a hint of darkness, and I will be picking up the second one just to see where this is going.

Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for providing me an ARC to review.

[Jordan Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy fantasy with hidden identities, forbidden magic, and multiple character perspectives, this book delivers a lot to get invested in. The story follows three main characters :Eira, Hugo, and Rhona. who each bring something different to the plot and slowly connect in ways that keep the mystery unfolding.
Eira was probably my favorite character. She’s a plus size FMC living quietly as a potion maker with her bunny companion, Pennyroyal, after losing nearly all of her memories in an accident years earlier. There’s something immediately intriguing about her because you know there’s more to her story from the start. The hidden memories and forbidden magic elements kept me wanting answers the entire time.
Hugo adds a lot of tension to the story. As a former commander of the Iron Regime who abandoned everything, his connection to Eira and the missing royal family creates some of the strongest emotional moments. His loyalty and protectiveness really stand out, especially with lines like, “I would never let them hurt you.” The political side of the story becomes more interesting through his perspective.
Rhona was another character I enjoyed because her struggle feels relatable. She’s a knight constantly trying to prove herself and fighting her own lack of confidence. Her determination made her easy to root for even if its on the wrong side.
They are all on a mission to protect the people and the land either from the Iron regime or for the Iron regime.
The book has:
Slow burn fantasy romance
Forbidden magic
Hidden identities and memories
A lost princess storyline
Multiple POVs
Twists that genuinely surprised me
I did suspect the princess reveal fairly early on, but the journey to that reveal and everything surrounding it still kept me hooked. The twists later in the story were not what I expected at all.
One quote that really stood out was: “May the iron in your blood strengthen the iron in your sword.”
Overall, this was an engaging fantasy with emotional character arcs, mystery, and a strong slow-burn atmosphere. If you like character-driven fantasy with secrets slowly unraveling, this is definitely worth picking up.

[Erica • thebridgeto.fantasy · Rating 4 out of 5]

With magic outlawed and witches being hunted down Eira, one of our FMCs, keeps her head down as a potions witch. Potion witches are for the most part, left alone, with their magic not being strong enough to do any real harm. Making potions for the townsfolk is her favorite past time with her familiar, a bunny. That is until a stranger, Hugo, comes into her shop on a mission to find something, or someone. With the memory of her past fractured, she has nothing to offer him. Until the two have a run in with Soldiers from the Iron Empire.. with a price on their heads she has no choice but to go on the mission with Hugo. But he is not as he seems and he knows much more about her than he is letting on.
On the flip side, our other FMC is Rhona, a knight for the Iron Empire, tasked with dealing with witches. She is on the rise in ranks after a squad commander goes AWOL, but gets her life flipped upside down when she finds that one person she admires is a witch and that there is something very strange going on. Soldiers going missing often, and the threat of rot spreading through the kingdom. She has to find out what is happening to her kingdom.
Between the three POVs we get sooooooo much yearning. The kind that you could slice with a knife because of the tension between said characters. Memory loss is one of my favorite (mirco)tropes and this one has a heavy dose of it.. like what do you mean he remembers but she cannot? Be still my hearttttt. This book boasts plus sized characters anddddd has LGBTQ+ representation. *chefs kiss* On both sides we have the beloved Reluctant Allies to Lovers trope! The worldbuilding is done very subtly and its incredibly easy to follow along. As a debut novel it is such an amazing feat!
The ending had me absolutely shookith and I CANNOTTT wait to read the next!!

*Thank you to The Hive and MIRA for the eARC via Netgalley in exchange for my honest thoughts and review.*

[April Haas · Rating 4 out of 5]

🗡 I received an ARC of this ebook from Netgalley 🗡

I'm really excited for the rest of this trilogy! We've got a nation where the monarchy was overthrown by what started as a populist movement, that got swept up in its own fervor and ended up making its mark by executing witches to purge the land of magic. And now the crops are dying, their neighboring nations are looking more like threats, and there's dissent brewing.

And yes, we've got romance, too.

The Iron Hex features three point-of-view characters, but really there are two plot lines being woven together. The first plot line is the meeting, tentative alliance, and budding relationship between Eira and Hugo. The second is the story of a lady knight, Sir Rhona, a poor farm girl who was given the chance to rise into a knighthood, thanks to the Iron Empire, to which she has pledged her loyalty.

Eira and Hugo are fleeing for their lives, on a quest to find the lost princess Evangeline, the true heir to the throne. They're dodging Iron knights, fighting for their lives, and trying to reconcile not only the fact that Eira's memory has been magically erased, but also the fact that Hugo is her former protector...and a witch killer. (Oh yeah, Eira is a witch!)

Sir Rhona is a knight, loyally serving the Iron Empire. Until she meets a bewitching seer, Lady Maeve, and she starts to see the truth behind the regime she's dedicated her life to.

The pacing between the two basic plots is quite different, with Eira and Hugo's feeling urgent and frenetic almost the entire way, while Rhona's story unfolds much more slowly. So it does feel a bit like getting stuck in traffic moving between the two. Stop. Go. Stop. Go.

I do think when we get to the second book, the tension will be much more similar between the two major pots, so they'll feel more aligned in pacing, based on how things end up here, though.

[Maomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for access to this eARC through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Iron Hex is a fantasy romance novel that follows Eira, Hugo, and Rhona as they navigate the country of Astra following a hostile takeover by the Iron Empire and witches have been hunted into near extinction. there are politics, schemes, and strife that follow each of their perspectives throughout the novel.

there is sex in this book! i did not know that going in. i was under the impression it was YA, despite there being no marketing materials suggesting this, and i was not familiar with the comp titles listed on netgalley. i think a lot of that could be attributed to the writing style, which reads as though it is geared towards a younger audience.

i think there was a lot of unexplored potential in this book. there were opportunities for really deep conversations regarding past actions and former beliefs. the specific scene in mind left me really disappointed because it was more so telling us this conversation happened as opposed to showing it happening. this lack of depth also stunted the romance, making the relationship feel incomplete in some ways. this yearning for more depth and of disappointment in the unexplored potential came up several times as i was reading the book.

the world building was also not the strongest. like, naming Eira’s shop the “Potions Patisserie” kind of implies that French is canon in this universe, but everything else is the vaguely european based fantasy world. it’s small details like this that poke holes in the work, resulting in a less immersive world.

the pacing was also on the slower side, so it did feel like a bit of a struggle trying to finish it.

i’d recommend this book to those who are interested in exploring new adult fantasy romance titles.

[S.B. Rodgers · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Iron Hex is a fun and magical ride. Victoria S. Walsh triumphs in this romantic fantasy that feels a bit like a D&D campaign masterclass.
The story of Eira—a potions witch who’s memories mysteriously vanished only three years ago—who’s cozy existence is turned upside down when a handsome stranger comes to town, is hands down one of my favourite reads so far this year.

The plot feels fresh and new for the Romantasy space, with its multi-POV, multi-storyline format it brings a hint of high fantasy structure to the Romantic Fantasy shelves. The Iron Hex is the perfect mix of cozy fantasy, epic adventure and sweep you off your feet romance that left this reader desperate for book two.

I found this story and its characters dazzling and fully immersive. I fell in love with Eira and hugo and Rona and so many others. There are spicy scenes that had me clutching my pearls and twists that made me scream WHAAAAT?!?!?!

It was also so lovely to finally see curvy woman who are respected and adored finally find their place in the Romantasy spotlight. Some of the scenes and quotes in this story made me feel so seen and healed little parts of me. It’s very safe to say that I will carry pieces of this book with me for the rest of my life.

I do want to say that some of the other reviews have said that this book switches between 1st person and 3rd person. It does not. I highly suspect that those who have said this are confusing the difference between Tense and POV. The Iron Hex—reminiscent of countless high fantasy series—is firmly written in third person past structure through the eyes and perspectives of multiple characters.

This book is a breath of fresh air and I highly recommend it to everyone.

[Alexis · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a world where magic is a plague and witches are hunted,it was interesting to see how Eira dealt with her memory loss, being a witch and later finding out the true extent of her magical abilities. I enjoyed the chemistry between Hugo and Eira especially given that he was her bodyguard for years but plot wise the things he did took me aback and gave me mixed emotions especially with how quick Eira was to forgive him for those actions. I wish we got more of him groveling and not just saying what we wanted to hear. For the most part, this story felt like a cozy, adventure centered on Hugo and Eira, until the second half, when it takes a darker, more unsettling turn exposing just how sinister things really are with a new general commanding the Iron Empire, and a doctor performing crazed experiments.

In addition to our main Fmc and Mmc, we also followed another pov, Rhonda, a knight in the Iron Empire who fought tooth and nail to get to that position but a special someone was able to change her mind about what was drilled into her for years. Again, making it too easy to be believable. I usually don’t like multiple povs and for the better half of this story, I didn’t feel like her chapters added anything substantial but towards the end, the author tied her storyline into the bigger picture, making it clear that her role will become more significant in the sequel.

One aspect I especially appreciated was the emphasis on body positivity throughout the story. It was a refreshing and welcome addition to a fantasy romance.

For a debut, this was a pretty solid read and I’m really interested in finding out how everything will play out after the way things ended!

Thank you to Netgalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eira is one of our main FMC whose living in a town and owns a potion shop. Being a potion witch is the only acceptable witch in these current days. She has this adorable little rabbit that she cares for!! I loved the rabbit scenes so much!

Once Hugo arrives in town her world gets thrown upside down. I really liked being able to read their different PoV especially since Eira has memory loss. We get to see what Hugo is feeling or holding back from Eira while Eira is also trying to piece of own life together. I really enjoyed getting to know Eira and understood how she was very taken back by Hugo and his introduction. I loved their interactions and romance, it felt natural and not forced.

𝑰 𝒋𝒖𝒔𝒕... 𝑰 𝒘𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒘. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝑰'𝒎 𝒈𝒍𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒈𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏

The third Pov is Rhona our strong loyal Empire knight. In the beginning, I didn't understand why we were getting her PoV. I wanted more of Eira and Hugo but as the story progresses we get more insight as to what's going on in the Empire. In the end, Rhona's PoV is important and ties together with what Hugo and Eira are experiencing. I'm excited to see what happens next for Rhona.

There's a few twists and turns throughout the story. One of the twists I definitely saw coming but despite that I still enjoyed the reveal of that twist. It didn't take away from the story that I had figured it out. The other ones I hadn't considered or thought of, so it was more gripping to read them.

That ending, OH MY GOSH! I didn't consider that and definitely see how that could change things.

🐇3 Povs
🌱Plus Sized FMC
🐇LGBTQIA+ Representation
🌱Outlaws Magic
🐇Memory Loss

Thank you HarperCollins for the free copy!

[Timothy Emmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've never been so sad to see the end of a book come around, but eager, exhilarated, and biting at the bullet to see book 2 when it comes out. This is one fantasy ride, that I'm glad I got the honor and opportunity to read, and will gladly read the rest of the trilogy when it lands, as soon as I can get my fingers on it. I was granted this book from Net Galley's approval, in exchange for an honest review, and, I truly loved this one. I gave this an unhesitating 5 stars, for its depth, character building and world creation in such a detail magical way, I was sucked in from the first page. This has it all, action, adventure, a bit of romance, to counteract the action, giving this emotional depth I haven't seen in a good fantasy novel in a while. Ask my book friends, I have been waxing poetic about this book since I got the download, opened my kindle app, connected my braille display, and away I went. I threw my headphones on, cause if you know, you know, I have to listen to music, of some sort, mainly electronic, or jazz, to dig deep, and this is what I did. Alabama's gorgeous weather over the weekend helped me kick off spring reading with a bang, book, porch, coffee, and dogs. In that order. My own slice of paradise, and it's a beautiful thing. I truly enjoyed this one and can't wait to devour the next one. And, there's no hint yet as to where the story will head, but, I have thoughts, questions, and opinions that would be a novel in its own right, but, I digress. I truly enjoyed this one and can't wait for more. Bring it on Victoria. I'm waiting.