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Threads of the Fifth Realm
Veins of Power
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26ARC Read available now. PUBLIC RELEASE IN JANUARY 2026!!!
Book Blurb: Meet Lyra Bloom, a fiery redhead with a sharp tongue, a quick mind, and a dangerous streak of magic she can't quite control.
Growing up scraping by in the lawless Outerlands, her survival meant learning to fight, lie and to rely on no one but herself.
But one fatal mistake changes everything.
Captured crossing the border to the Innerlands, Lyra is dragged into the very world she’s spent her life resenting.
Inside the walls of the Citadel her magic grows stronger. Wilder. But so does something else: a rising lust and desire for something she doesn’t truly understand. Something shadowed. Something dangerous. Something that threatens to unravel her—and everything around her...
And as whispers of rebellion spread and dragons strike from exile, Lyra must decide whether she’ll be forged into the weapon the Citadel wants… or become the spark that burns it all down
Romantasy Fantasy Romance
Book Blurb: Meet Lyra Bloom, a fiery redhead with a sharp tongue, a quick mind, and a dangerous streak of magic she can't quite control.
Growing up scraping by in the lawless Outerlands, her survival meant learning to fight, lie and to rely on no one but herself.
But one fatal mistake changes everything.
Captured crossing the border to the Innerlands, Lyra is dragged into the very world she’s spent her life resenting.
Inside the walls of the Citadel her magic grows stronger. Wilder. But so does something else: a rising lust and desire for something she doesn’t truly understand. Something shadowed. Something dangerous. Something that threatens to unravel her—and everything around her...
And as whispers of rebellion spread and dragons strike from exile, Lyra must decide whether she’ll be forged into the weapon the Citadel wants… or become the spark that burns it all down
Romantasy Fantasy Romance
670 pages, ebook
Expected publication January 20, 2026
78 people are currently reading
535 people want to read
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January 16, 2026here for the dragons 🐉
Currently reading
November 28, 2025pre-read:
I was ITCHING for a romantasy ARC right after my romcoms and NetGalley servedd🤭🫶
I was ITCHING for a romantasy ARC right after my romcoms and NetGalley servedd🤭🫶
November 27, 2025
4.5/5 ✨
I am SO glad I was selected to be an ARC reader for this upcoming book! It completely exceeded my expectations, the magic system, world building, story, and of course all the messy story lines surprised me by how invested I became in this book!! It initially had a slower start for me (typical FMC with a rough upbringing being thrown into a world different from what she thought she knew) but once I got through the first few chapters the story took off and never slowed down.
I was really impressed how well the magic system and story lines were both well thought out without any holes and I loved how Becky used foreshadowing throughout this book!! It remained fast paced without turning into any confusing or distracting sub plots. This book got better for me as I read and now I am completely invested and impatiently waiting to see what will happen next!! I definitely recommend for all my fantasy girls to read when it comes out in January 2026!!
Thank you Becky and netgalley for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book! 🖤🖤
I am SO glad I was selected to be an ARC reader for this upcoming book! It completely exceeded my expectations, the magic system, world building, story, and of course all the messy story lines surprised me by how invested I became in this book!! It initially had a slower start for me (typical FMC with a rough upbringing being thrown into a world different from what she thought she knew) but once I got through the first few chapters the story took off and never slowed down.
I was really impressed how well the magic system and story lines were both well thought out without any holes and I loved how Becky used foreshadowing throughout this book!! It remained fast paced without turning into any confusing or distracting sub plots. This book got better for me as I read and now I am completely invested and impatiently waiting to see what will happen next!! I definitely recommend for all my fantasy girls to read when it comes out in January 2026!!
Thank you Becky and netgalley for allowing me to be an ARC reader for this book! 🖤🖤
December 1, 2025
ARC supplied by NetGalley, thank you so much for this opportunity!
A really well written romantasy book that I think is going to be one of the big reads of early 2026.
It’s steamy without being spicy, it’s murderous without being dark, its magic system is fully fleshed out and I’m really curious how this will translate in the later books. And the cliffhanger? Expected but also unexpected. (Makes sense?)
•
Lyra goes about her life as an outerlander, a community exiled for refusing to fight with the innerlanders, stripped from accessing their powers. Faced with poverty, she steals from the city to help feed and cure the outerlanders. But an act of carelessness causes her to get caught and sent to the citadel for training with the very people she’s learnt to hate. Along with the mysterious officer who is set out to kill her, she learns to survive in this new world of danger, love, and friendship, all while the looming threat of dragons persists.
•
This is fantastic for fans of Fourth Wing for the academic setting with dragons.
A really well written romantasy book that I think is going to be one of the big reads of early 2026.
It’s steamy without being spicy, it’s murderous without being dark, its magic system is fully fleshed out and I’m really curious how this will translate in the later books. And the cliffhanger? Expected but also unexpected. (Makes sense?)
•
Lyra goes about her life as an outerlander, a community exiled for refusing to fight with the innerlanders, stripped from accessing their powers. Faced with poverty, she steals from the city to help feed and cure the outerlanders. But an act of carelessness causes her to get caught and sent to the citadel for training with the very people she’s learnt to hate. Along with the mysterious officer who is set out to kill her, she learns to survive in this new world of danger, love, and friendship, all while the looming threat of dragons persists.
•
This is fantastic for fans of Fourth Wing for the academic setting with dragons.
December 29, 2025
Having read not a single romantasy book this year, I found this one on netgalley and I'm so glad I got picked as a reader because this was power packed.
The premise not just captures the regular tropes but the magic system and plot was very well done. After a long break in this genre I found myself having a hard time getting hooked to a book but this one pulled me in right away.
The world is split into two - outerlands and Citadel. People in outerlands are stripped of magic but our FMC - Lyra, her magic doesn't know how to stay contained and to let it out she has to enter citadel.
Now, on her way she is captured crossing the border into the Innerlands brought in court only to find that her mother served in citadel years ago. She doesn't want to serve them and neither does she want to believe her mother serving to be true. Unclear of the agenda of why she is even brought here, she decides to stay.
Extremely gripping. Perfect for the fans of fourth wing, throne of glass.
✨ Slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers tension
😈 Morally grey MMC
💣 Forced proximity & dangerous bargains
🐉 Dragons in exile & forbidden magic
❤️🔥 A fierce, flawed heroine who would rather set the world on fire than bow to it
The premise not just captures the regular tropes but the magic system and plot was very well done. After a long break in this genre I found myself having a hard time getting hooked to a book but this one pulled me in right away.
The world is split into two - outerlands and Citadel. People in outerlands are stripped of magic but our FMC - Lyra, her magic doesn't know how to stay contained and to let it out she has to enter citadel.
Now, on her way she is captured crossing the border into the Innerlands brought in court only to find that her mother served in citadel years ago. She doesn't want to serve them and neither does she want to believe her mother serving to be true. Unclear of the agenda of why she is even brought here, she decides to stay.
Extremely gripping. Perfect for the fans of fourth wing, throne of glass.
✨ Slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers tension
😈 Morally grey MMC
💣 Forced proximity & dangerous bargains
🐉 Dragons in exile & forbidden magic
❤️🔥 A fierce, flawed heroine who would rather set the world on fire than bow to it
December 6, 2025
Wow! What an astounding debut novel 😍
Let me start by saying, the book had me hook, line and sinker from the first chapter! Such a sizzling start to this adventure. So many lovable characters. Lyra, Ezzy, Rowan, Finn and of course the one we love to hate and hate to love.. the Nightrose Talen our MMC 🤤
This book has the perfect amount of plot with an equal amount of yearning. Betrayal, plot twists, concise world building that doesn't leave your brain fried, dragons, villains and our delectable MMC Talen who is swoon worthy!!! Throughout this book you will fall in love with side characters, wonder who can be trusted and pick up on many hidden dragon eggs within the chapters.
Speaking of chapters, each one has you rushing to get to the next. Zero filler which I love. Thank you Becky for writing this book and entrusting us ARC readers with your work. I am honestly blown away with how good this is for a debut and grateful l've had the chance to enter the Fifth Realm ♥️
Let me start by saying, the book had me hook, line and sinker from the first chapter! Such a sizzling start to this adventure. So many lovable characters. Lyra, Ezzy, Rowan, Finn and of course the one we love to hate and hate to love.. the Nightrose Talen our MMC 🤤
This book has the perfect amount of plot with an equal amount of yearning. Betrayal, plot twists, concise world building that doesn't leave your brain fried, dragons, villains and our delectable MMC Talen who is swoon worthy!!! Throughout this book you will fall in love with side characters, wonder who can be trusted and pick up on many hidden dragon eggs within the chapters.
Speaking of chapters, each one has you rushing to get to the next. Zero filler which I love. Thank you Becky for writing this book and entrusting us ARC readers with your work. I am honestly blown away with how good this is for a debut and grateful l've had the chance to enter the Fifth Realm ♥️
November 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the pleasure of receiving an early ARC of Veins of Power, and wow—what a ride. At first glance, it starts like many romantasy tales: a young female protagonist setting off on a journey, the world slowly unfolding around her. The pacing in the beginning is gentle, almost deceptively so. But don’t let that lull you—because once this story finds its stride, it does not let go.
The transformation throughout the book is remarkable. What begins as a familiar fantasy setup evolves into something far more layered and unpredictable. The last third of the novel is packed with twists and revelations that had me flipping pages like my life depended on it. I genuinely gasped more than once.
The emotional stakes rise sharply, the magic system deepens, and the characters—especially the protagonist—grow in ways that feel earned and compelling.
By the end, I was fully invested and devastated that I’ll have to wait for book two. If you love romantasy with a slow burn that erupts into high-stakes drama, Veins of Power is a must-read.
I had the pleasure of receiving an early ARC of Veins of Power, and wow—what a ride. At first glance, it starts like many romantasy tales: a young female protagonist setting off on a journey, the world slowly unfolding around her. The pacing in the beginning is gentle, almost deceptively so. But don’t let that lull you—because once this story finds its stride, it does not let go.
The transformation throughout the book is remarkable. What begins as a familiar fantasy setup evolves into something far more layered and unpredictable. The last third of the novel is packed with twists and revelations that had me flipping pages like my life depended on it. I genuinely gasped more than once.
The emotional stakes rise sharply, the magic system deepens, and the characters—especially the protagonist—grow in ways that feel earned and compelling.
By the end, I was fully invested and devastated that I’ll have to wait for book two. If you love romantasy with a slow burn that erupts into high-stakes drama, Veins of Power is a must-read.
January 17, 2026
⭐️: 3.5/5 (rounded for GR)
🌶️: 1/5
Veins of Power was so much different than I expected! | initially prepared for a spicy, romance forward story with some generic fantasy overlay.
However; I actually think the plot and the magic was the best part of this story. Yes, this is an enemies to lovers - but the romance wasn't the biggest plot device in my opinion. It's certainly a main storyline, but for me, the most interesting parts were not always necessarily tied to the romance (does that even make sense) I think this take on magic is really creative and unique, somewhat combining elemental magic with something less conventional.
My only critique of this book is that there are some "copy paste" moments and some predictably.
However, given that this is a debut indie published book, I think this can be overlooked. I'd recommend this to first time romantasy readers and those whole love a military/ academic training setting!
🌶️: 1/5
Veins of Power was so much different than I expected! | initially prepared for a spicy, romance forward story with some generic fantasy overlay.
However; I actually think the plot and the magic was the best part of this story. Yes, this is an enemies to lovers - but the romance wasn't the biggest plot device in my opinion. It's certainly a main storyline, but for me, the most interesting parts were not always necessarily tied to the romance (does that even make sense) I think this take on magic is really creative and unique, somewhat combining elemental magic with something less conventional.
My only critique of this book is that there are some "copy paste" moments and some predictably.
However, given that this is a debut indie published book, I think this can be overlooked. I'd recommend this to first time romantasy readers and those whole love a military/ academic training setting!
December 25, 2025
I was lucky to be given a copy of the ebook as an ARC to read. These opinions are my own.
3.5⭐️!
It did take me a while to get in to it. I started and stopped the book twice before I kept reading it.
As a rule, I try to at least give it at least 50% before I DNF - and I’m glad I did!!
The world building was great. The magic system involving “Threads” was unique and interesting.
Tropes:
Found family
Fake dating
Insta-lust
Enemies to lovers
One POV
Miscommunication (my least favorite trope)
World:
Academy Setting
Dragons (kind of??? They’re mentioned and seen briefly - I have a feeling they will be more involved in later books)
🌶️1.5
Overall:
I didn’t get the instant love. She’s supposed to hate him and yet she can’t stop thinking how hot he is🙄
A lot of internal dialogue.
Takes a while to get in to.
HOWEVER: I DID really start to get in to the story later. Specifically after 70% in when you start to kind of understand what’s going on. I even teared up later in the book. My 10 year old goes, “are you crying??? Why do you read books that make you cry??” So, overall, I did enjoy it and I will be reading books 2 & 3!!
3.5⭐️!
It did take me a while to get in to it. I started and stopped the book twice before I kept reading it.
As a rule, I try to at least give it at least 50% before I DNF - and I’m glad I did!!
The world building was great. The magic system involving “Threads” was unique and interesting.
Tropes:
Found family
Fake dating
Insta-lust
Enemies to lovers
One POV
Miscommunication (my least favorite trope)
World:
Academy Setting
Dragons (kind of??? They’re mentioned and seen briefly - I have a feeling they will be more involved in later books)
🌶️1.5
Overall:
I didn’t get the instant love. She’s supposed to hate him and yet she can’t stop thinking how hot he is🙄
A lot of internal dialogue.
Takes a while to get in to.
HOWEVER: I DID really start to get in to the story later. Specifically after 70% in when you start to kind of understand what’s going on. I even teared up later in the book. My 10 year old goes, “are you crying??? Why do you read books that make you cry??” So, overall, I did enjoy it and I will be reading books 2 & 3!!
December 27, 2025
This book far exceeded my expectations and I cannot wait for the release of the second volume to continue the story.
The magic system was particularly impressive, just like that plot that remained engaging despite the book's length. The pacing was also good, keeping the story compelling.
The main character, Lyra, is strong and flawed. With little understanding of how to control her powers, she is offered to be trained at an academy for one month in return for information. An offer she cannot refuse. This novel is a solid start for the rest of the series, following Lyra as she begins to understand her abilities and her new reality. The twists at the end leave the reader wanting more.
At times the story reminded me of other fantasy novels I adore, such as Fourth Wing. Fans of this genre cannot miss this one.
tropes:
-enemies to lovers
-slow burn
-academy setting
-elemental magic
Thank you NetGalley and Becky Jane Fox for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The magic system was particularly impressive, just like that plot that remained engaging despite the book's length. The pacing was also good, keeping the story compelling.
The main character, Lyra, is strong and flawed. With little understanding of how to control her powers, she is offered to be trained at an academy for one month in return for information. An offer she cannot refuse. This novel is a solid start for the rest of the series, following Lyra as she begins to understand her abilities and her new reality. The twists at the end leave the reader wanting more.
At times the story reminded me of other fantasy novels I adore, such as Fourth Wing. Fans of this genre cannot miss this one.
tropes:
-enemies to lovers
-slow burn
-academy setting
-elemental magic
Thank you NetGalley and Becky Jane Fox for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Vibes: 🐉❤️🔥✨🥀🏰⚡️
Add to your TBR if you love:
↪︎ Found Family
↪︎ A Dark Broody MMC
↪︎ Enemies to Lovers
↪︎ An Academy Setting
↪︎ Elemental Magic
↪︎ Exiled Dragons
↪︎ Tension
↪︎ A Slow Burn
Characters: 🚻
Lyra- She flawed. She may make you bang your head against a wall one too many times BUT she’s loyal and the potential to grow.
Talen- From the very first encounter he’s already admits to wanting to kill her?!?! This man is toxic but like in a hot way? 😂❤️🔥
Thoughts: 💭
This was a solid read. I found myself enjoying it most of the time but there was a few things I wish there was more of like the dragons. I also thought the stakes weren’t anything too jaw dropping. I could have used a more wow or shock but overall it still had great characters and chemistry! It was a delicious slow burn that was layered with power, tension, yearning and trust. The romance definitely lead the book. I feel like book 2 has a chance to be even better as there’s hope to have more depth and dragons? 👀 hopefully 🤞🏼
Thank you so much Netgalley and Becky Jane Fox for the arc copy!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Vibes: 🐉❤️🔥✨🥀🏰⚡️
Add to your TBR if you love:
↪︎ Found Family
↪︎ A Dark Broody MMC
↪︎ Enemies to Lovers
↪︎ An Academy Setting
↪︎ Elemental Magic
↪︎ Exiled Dragons
↪︎ Tension
↪︎ A Slow Burn
Characters: 🚻
Lyra- She flawed. She may make you bang your head against a wall one too many times BUT she’s loyal and the potential to grow.
Talen- From the very first encounter he’s already admits to wanting to kill her?!?! This man is toxic but like in a hot way? 😂❤️🔥
Thoughts: 💭
This was a solid read. I found myself enjoying it most of the time but there was a few things I wish there was more of like the dragons. I also thought the stakes weren’t anything too jaw dropping. I could have used a more wow or shock but overall it still had great characters and chemistry! It was a delicious slow burn that was layered with power, tension, yearning and trust. The romance definitely lead the book. I feel like book 2 has a chance to be even better as there’s hope to have more depth and dragons? 👀 hopefully 🤞🏼
Thank you so much Netgalley and Becky Jane Fox for the arc copy!
December 18, 2025
DNF at page 58. Not my cup of tea.
The start reads as adult fantasy, it starts to become quite repetitive in that the inner monologue of the main character then gets repeated in actual dialogue or follow up monologues . I felt it was unnecessary, you’ve already mentioned things once, it doesn’t need repeating. Another repetitive point is of the Reassignment…another thing that doesn’t need mentioning multiple times per paragraph.
We then get to Lyra being bamboozled into a training academy (university level) and it reads as very YA interactions and very young kind of superficial things. It threw me enough to make me no longer interested in reading. Especially after a post sex opening scene and the very real threat of death in beyond realms stuff mentioned at the beginning.
The start reads as adult fantasy, it starts to become quite repetitive in that the inner monologue of the main character then gets repeated in actual dialogue or follow up monologues . I felt it was unnecessary, you’ve already mentioned things once, it doesn’t need repeating. Another repetitive point is of the Reassignment…another thing that doesn’t need mentioning multiple times per paragraph.
We then get to Lyra being bamboozled into a training academy (university level) and it reads as very YA interactions and very young kind of superficial things. It threw me enough to make me no longer interested in reading. Especially after a post sex opening scene and the very real threat of death in beyond realms stuff mentioned at the beginning.
January 17, 2026
“There are darker things in this world than whispered rumours of rebellion, Lyra. Shadows that don’t care about borders or bloodlines.”
✨ Enemies to lovers 🔥
✨ Academy + elemental magic 🌿💨
✨ Outlander-turned-Citadel cadet + found family 🫶🏻
✨ Slow burn + tension 🥵
✨ Broody, dark MMC ⚔️
Lyra, living as an Outlander, only agreed to spend a month at the Citadel in exchange for access to her mother’s journals. But once inside, she’s drawn into a world where magic is taught, honed, and wielded daily, alongside shadows, danger, and high-stakes rivalries ⚡
Talen is broody, lethal, and impossible to ignore. From the very first meeting when he casually announces he plans to kill her, he’s both terrifying and magnetic.
“He looks like a weapon carved into a man. Cut jaw, broad shoulders, hands you don’t want around you but can’t stop imagining there anyway.”
Their chemistry is taut, slow-burn, and layered. The tension isn’t just romantic; it’s a collision of trust, power, and danger:
“He’s still everything I’m supposed to hate. Do hate. He’s still a weapon, I haven’t forgotten that. But he did save my life. Twice.” 🔥
Dragons appear as a tantalising backdrop rather than a focus, hinting at bigger threats in book 2 🐉✨
Elemental magic that’s tricky, powerful, and full of surprises, keeping the tension high every step of the way 💨🌿🔥
The found family - Ezzy, Rowan, and Finn - grounds Lyra beautifully. Their loyalty, humour, and care offer warmth in a story full of shadows 🫶🏻
“The truth is a…precarious thing around here, Lyra. Sometimes silence is the only way to say it.”
And the last 15%? Plot twists, heartbreak, and cliffhangers that will leave you gasping 💔😳
This debut grabs you from the start and never lets go, and while it naturally invites comparisons to other academy-dragon-enemies-to-lovers stories, it stands strong with its voice, tension, and worldbuilding. Book 2 cannot come soon enough ✨
Thank you so much to Becky Jane Fox for this arc 🫶🏻
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
✨ Enemies to lovers 🔥
✨ Academy + elemental magic 🌿💨
✨ Outlander-turned-Citadel cadet + found family 🫶🏻
✨ Slow burn + tension 🥵
✨ Broody, dark MMC ⚔️
Lyra, living as an Outlander, only agreed to spend a month at the Citadel in exchange for access to her mother’s journals. But once inside, she’s drawn into a world where magic is taught, honed, and wielded daily, alongside shadows, danger, and high-stakes rivalries ⚡
Talen is broody, lethal, and impossible to ignore. From the very first meeting when he casually announces he plans to kill her, he’s both terrifying and magnetic.
“He looks like a weapon carved into a man. Cut jaw, broad shoulders, hands you don’t want around you but can’t stop imagining there anyway.”
Their chemistry is taut, slow-burn, and layered. The tension isn’t just romantic; it’s a collision of trust, power, and danger:
“He’s still everything I’m supposed to hate. Do hate. He’s still a weapon, I haven’t forgotten that. But he did save my life. Twice.” 🔥
Dragons appear as a tantalising backdrop rather than a focus, hinting at bigger threats in book 2 🐉✨
Elemental magic that’s tricky, powerful, and full of surprises, keeping the tension high every step of the way 💨🌿🔥
The found family - Ezzy, Rowan, and Finn - grounds Lyra beautifully. Their loyalty, humour, and care offer warmth in a story full of shadows 🫶🏻
“The truth is a…precarious thing around here, Lyra. Sometimes silence is the only way to say it.”
And the last 15%? Plot twists, heartbreak, and cliffhangers that will leave you gasping 💔😳
This debut grabs you from the start and never lets go, and while it naturally invites comparisons to other academy-dragon-enemies-to-lovers stories, it stands strong with its voice, tension, and worldbuilding. Book 2 cannot come soon enough ✨
Thank you so much to Becky Jane Fox for this arc 🫶🏻
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
November 22, 2025
Huge thank you to Netgalley and Becky Jane Fox for the eARC.
Genre: Fantasy Romance
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger 7/10 (The whole final act was crazy!)
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete series. Single first-person POV. Darker themes so check the content warnings. Publication date is 1/19/2026.
I love supporting indie authors and books like this are why. This is a clever mashup of Harry Potter and Fourth Wing with a dash of The Lies of Lena. There were several times I was caught off guard here. Books like this are why I have trust issues. 😂
Our main character Lyra is a strong willed character who is bursting at the seams with magic that she has no idea how to control. She finds herself in a situation where she is offered a deal that would have her train her magic in a cutthroat academy for one month in exchange for information she desperately wants. What ensues is a journey of Lyra doing her best to figure out not only herself but the truth about the world around her. This first book is her navigating landmines set by her decisions and lack of emotional control. The potential love interests are vastly different at this point. Bren is her childhood bestie and Talen is her main nemesis on campus. If Bren is a warm cozy blanket, Talen is an electric blanket with some short circuits that you fear could kill you at anytime but it makes you feel alive.
As the story unfolds we are met with twists and turns that personally shocked me at times. This is a decent sized book but it's mostly Lyra trying to survive day to day and figuring things out along the way. It sets up the next book to be a banger with the final puzzle pieces we need.
If you like an academia setting with elemental magic, a heated rivals to lovers story, or a book that will keep you guessing throughout, pick this one up!
Genre: Fantasy Romance
⭐️ 4.5/5
🌶 2/5
🧠 4/10
Cliffhanger 7/10 (The whole final act was crazy!)
Noteworthy: Book 1 of an incomplete series. Single first-person POV. Darker themes so check the content warnings. Publication date is 1/19/2026.
I love supporting indie authors and books like this are why. This is a clever mashup of Harry Potter and Fourth Wing with a dash of The Lies of Lena. There were several times I was caught off guard here. Books like this are why I have trust issues. 😂
Our main character Lyra is a strong willed character who is bursting at the seams with magic that she has no idea how to control. She finds herself in a situation where she is offered a deal that would have her train her magic in a cutthroat academy for one month in exchange for information she desperately wants. What ensues is a journey of Lyra doing her best to figure out not only herself but the truth about the world around her. This first book is her navigating landmines set by her decisions and lack of emotional control. The potential love interests are vastly different at this point. Bren is her childhood bestie and Talen is her main nemesis on campus. If Bren is a warm cozy blanket, Talen is an electric blanket with some short circuits that you fear could kill you at anytime but it makes you feel alive.
As the story unfolds we are met with twists and turns that personally shocked me at times. This is a decent sized book but it's mostly Lyra trying to survive day to day and figuring things out along the way. It sets up the next book to be a banger with the final puzzle pieces we need.
If you like an academia setting with elemental magic, a heated rivals to lovers story, or a book that will keep you guessing throughout, pick this one up!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
🌶️🌶️
Looking for your next romantasy series?
You'll want to pick this one up!
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC!
× × ✞ × ×
My first book read in 2026 and I was not disappointed at all!
First off, I was impressed by the magic system, I thought it was unique and really well done.
I really enjoyed the world build and progressing through the story, it's dark, gritty and the twists and turns kept me guessing and wanting to uncover more.
The more I read, the better it got and the ending... 😱 Talk about a cliff hanger! 🫨
When it came to the characters, I liked their individual personalities and the relationship dynamics throughout the story.
The romance to this book is a slow-burn, almost tormenting me as the reader, it's tense, but I do like that it builds it up slowly, balancing out nicely with the story.
Lyra is absolutely fierce 🔥 Being our fiery, sharp tongue, strong MFC, she doesn't back down from any challenge.
As for Talen ... Well you'll just have to find out what he's all about 😏
☾⋆
If you like a well built fantasy world with magic, dragons, action and the enemy to lovers trope, this is one for you!
🌶️🌶️
Looking for your next romantasy series?
You'll want to pick this one up!
Thank you @netgalley for this ARC!
× × ✞ × ×
My first book read in 2026 and I was not disappointed at all!
First off, I was impressed by the magic system, I thought it was unique and really well done.
I really enjoyed the world build and progressing through the story, it's dark, gritty and the twists and turns kept me guessing and wanting to uncover more.
The more I read, the better it got and the ending... 😱 Talk about a cliff hanger! 🫨
When it came to the characters, I liked their individual personalities and the relationship dynamics throughout the story.
The romance to this book is a slow-burn, almost tormenting me as the reader, it's tense, but I do like that it builds it up slowly, balancing out nicely with the story.
Lyra is absolutely fierce 🔥 Being our fiery, sharp tongue, strong MFC, she doesn't back down from any challenge.
As for Talen ... Well you'll just have to find out what he's all about 😏
☾⋆
If you like a well built fantasy world with magic, dragons, action and the enemy to lovers trope, this is one for you!
November 30, 2025
First of all, I would like to thank Becky Jane Fox and NetGalley for the opportunity to review the Veins of Power ARC. This is my first ARC review and I really appreciate you taking a chance on a newer reviewer. ♥️
Okay, my brain is muddled with post-Thanksgiving exhaustion so I think the best way to organize my thoughts is by grouping what I liked, what I didn’t like, characters, etc. Super clinical, right?!
What I liked:
I love dragons, and though this book didn’t get a lot of interaction with the dragons, it’s definitely coming. I think the lead up into how the characters relate to and interact with dragons was very well done. Lots of suspense and world building in that regard.
I really liked the slow-burn romance. The author did a great job building up intensity between the two main characters. That second kiss is living rent-free in my brain.
I love the found family. The secondary character friendship group is giving Harry Potter vibes and I’m there for it. Possible spoiler… I was slightly heartbroken by what’s happening to the friends at the end of the book, but we will see how that resolves in the next one. 😢🤞🏼
Finally, I love the storyline! Lots of mystery, lots of intrigue, and a slow burn romance – what’s not to love?!
What I didn’t like:
The magic system was not super clear. I get that people have from 1 to 4 magical threads that are related to the elements. What I didn’t get was exactly how these threads manipulated the elements in some cases. Some, very obvious: removing the breath from people, moving around rocks and earth, or being able to drown people with water in their lungs. But some were a little more unclear, a.k.a. the duck. Basically, the threads that were related to emotions and feelings, or determining the future were not explained as clearly.
I hated how the characters ‘used’ other characters without any regard. It was addressed and even rationalized, but there was no real growth in that area - more like a ‘better to ask for forgiveness than permission’ mentality.
Plot hole of referring to the cadets as a breeding program, but also killing them off indiscriminately. How can you want to increase the population in the citadel, but you also kill off viable breeding stock, for lack of a better term. It just seemed like a plot device to add in how dangerous or immoral the citadel is, but it didn’t really fit. It seemed forced.
Characters:
MFC: I went back-and-forth with liking and disliking Lyra. On one hand, she was fairly insightful, and most of her actions were thoughtfully chosen. But on the other hand, she used people without any regard for their thoughts, feelings, or well-being. It ended up getting people killed and she basically threw away her oldest friend/lover. Also, Brian. WTAF 😳 It made her hard to like. Toward the end, I started seeing a little bit more insight into what she was doing, but no significant growth in the area. Maybe that will come in with the next book… Fingers crossed!
MMC: Talen was a bit confusing. I’m not sure if he’s morally gray, or really good at subterfuge. A lot of his actions didn’t make any sense. He gave me freaking whiplash with the back-and-forth. The whole shtick of ‘I can’t explain it to you now, but you’ll just have to trust me’ got old. I wanted a little more transparency from him. Maybe a big part of that was that we got so much of Lyra’s voice and thoughts, but nothing from him.
Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Flow: I had a bit of trouble getting into the book at first, but that may be because I have home renovations going on right now so my head wasn’t in it. Once the story started I was hooked! There were points where it dragged a bit, I think we got a lot of Lyra’s thoughts which made it more tell, not show at times. But overall I was invested in the story.
Cliffhanger: Unfortunately, yes. 😭
Okay, my brain is muddled with post-Thanksgiving exhaustion so I think the best way to organize my thoughts is by grouping what I liked, what I didn’t like, characters, etc. Super clinical, right?!
What I liked:
I love dragons, and though this book didn’t get a lot of interaction with the dragons, it’s definitely coming. I think the lead up into how the characters relate to and interact with dragons was very well done. Lots of suspense and world building in that regard.
I really liked the slow-burn romance. The author did a great job building up intensity between the two main characters. That second kiss is living rent-free in my brain.
I love the found family. The secondary character friendship group is giving Harry Potter vibes and I’m there for it. Possible spoiler… I was slightly heartbroken by what’s happening to the friends at the end of the book, but we will see how that resolves in the next one. 😢🤞🏼
Finally, I love the storyline! Lots of mystery, lots of intrigue, and a slow burn romance – what’s not to love?!
What I didn’t like:
The magic system was not super clear. I get that people have from 1 to 4 magical threads that are related to the elements. What I didn’t get was exactly how these threads manipulated the elements in some cases. Some, very obvious: removing the breath from people, moving around rocks and earth, or being able to drown people with water in their lungs. But some were a little more unclear, a.k.a. the duck. Basically, the threads that were related to emotions and feelings, or determining the future were not explained as clearly.
I hated how the characters ‘used’ other characters without any regard. It was addressed and even rationalized, but there was no real growth in that area - more like a ‘better to ask for forgiveness than permission’ mentality.
Plot hole of referring to the cadets as a breeding program, but also killing them off indiscriminately. How can you want to increase the population in the citadel, but you also kill off viable breeding stock, for lack of a better term. It just seemed like a plot device to add in how dangerous or immoral the citadel is, but it didn’t really fit. It seemed forced.
Characters:
MFC: I went back-and-forth with liking and disliking Lyra. On one hand, she was fairly insightful, and most of her actions were thoughtfully chosen. But on the other hand, she used people without any regard for their thoughts, feelings, or well-being. It ended up getting people killed and she basically threw away her oldest friend/lover. Also, Brian. WTAF 😳 It made her hard to like. Toward the end, I started seeing a little bit more insight into what she was doing, but no significant growth in the area. Maybe that will come in with the next book… Fingers crossed!
MMC: Talen was a bit confusing. I’m not sure if he’s morally gray, or really good at subterfuge. A lot of his actions didn’t make any sense. He gave me freaking whiplash with the back-and-forth. The whole shtick of ‘I can’t explain it to you now, but you’ll just have to trust me’ got old. I wanted a little more transparency from him. Maybe a big part of that was that we got so much of Lyra’s voice and thoughts, but nothing from him.
Steam: 🌶️🌶️
Flow: I had a bit of trouble getting into the book at first, but that may be because I have home renovations going on right now so my head wasn’t in it. Once the story started I was hooked! There were points where it dragged a bit, I think we got a lot of Lyra’s thoughts which made it more tell, not show at times. But overall I was invested in the story.
Cliffhanger: Unfortunately, yes. 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2025
3.5 for sure maybe a 4...🫣🫠 it is hard to know...full review to come!!
I have only one certainty: please give us a dual narrative for book 2!!!!
I have only one certainty: please give us a dual narrative for book 2!!!!
December 17, 2025
(3.5⭐️)
This book was definitely a slow burner to me, with a slower start than I anticipated (which to be fair was not aided by my inability to read much due to finals). By the 30% mark though I was hooked, the book was engaging, immersive, and had a plot that felt familiar but unique. Given the academy setting there was a lot of information about the magic system, which I personally to be really interesting. My 2 main complaints with this book are the lack of any sort of clarification or explanation given throughout the almost 600 page book (though I will note I read an e-arc on my phone, so I don’t know how that translates page wise). My second issue was with the FMC, the inner monologue felt repetitive and after a point actually began to annoy me and because of the lack of any new information, it felt like there was no reason for her inner turmoil that caused her to be so indecisive in how she felt and who she trusted. Overall it was a pretty good book, with most of my issues being very subjective, and when the series continues I will be continuing.
This book was definitely a slow burner to me, with a slower start than I anticipated (which to be fair was not aided by my inability to read much due to finals). By the 30% mark though I was hooked, the book was engaging, immersive, and had a plot that felt familiar but unique. Given the academy setting there was a lot of information about the magic system, which I personally to be really interesting. My 2 main complaints with this book are the lack of any sort of clarification or explanation given throughout the almost 600 page book (though I will note I read an e-arc on my phone, so I don’t know how that translates page wise). My second issue was with the FMC, the inner monologue felt repetitive and after a point actually began to annoy me and because of the lack of any new information, it felt like there was no reason for her inner turmoil that caused her to be so indecisive in how she felt and who she trusted. Overall it was a pretty good book, with most of my issues being very subjective, and when the series continues I will be continuing.
January 4, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
4.5 🌟 THIS WAS SOOOOO GOOD!!!
Starting a new fantasy series can be so daunting when you don’t know the magic system, but Becky Jane Fox does an incredible job of world building.
I loved the character arcs in this book and the constant intrigue and suspense! I can’t wait for book 2, can I have it now?!
4.5 🌟 THIS WAS SOOOOO GOOD!!!
Starting a new fantasy series can be so daunting when you don’t know the magic system, but Becky Jane Fox does an incredible job of world building.
I loved the character arcs in this book and the constant intrigue and suspense! I can’t wait for book 2, can I have it now?!
December 5, 2025
DNF at 36%, I just couldn’t anymore.
I got this as an eARC for reviewing, and seeing all the amazing reviews I was excited to read this. This just shows how subjective reading is.
I couldn’t get into it. It’s very similar to Fourth Wing (the love interest and the academy setting with a blond guy that wants to kill her - hello Jack Barlowe) - and I thought I would love it - i was wrong.
1. Do we really need to read how the MMC smelled like leather, smoke and something bittersweet/clean sweat every time he shows up? Every time. Please, to all the authors. Enough is enough.
2. The FMC was almost as bad as Diem - get a grip girl, every decision she made was wrong. And then she got three friends that showed her several times they can be trusted (btw I am talking about the 36% that I read), yet every time they wanted to help her she had the same inner monologue how ‘i cannot put my walls down or i’ll lose it’. At some point I LOST IT.
3. This is now the second book where when writing the inner monologue of a character the author writes it like ‘what was this person thinking? What if they plan to do something to me? What if i am wrong?’ - all formulated as questions. No disrespect, but this is how I wrote my middle school essays and in a published book I expect better writing. It is, to me personally, very grating.
4. Please mind the setting and vocabulary. This is very obviously not an urban fantasy, modern setting. The healing is done with some kind of spice. Yet there was a joke reference to ‘i hope the girls have good life insurance’. This was almost as bad as ‘cliff notes’ comment in Quicksilver for me.
Anyhow, this was just not for me and I will sadly not be recommending this. I had to DNF when I realized I am forcing myself to read it.
I got this as an eARC for reviewing, and seeing all the amazing reviews I was excited to read this. This just shows how subjective reading is.
I couldn’t get into it. It’s very similar to Fourth Wing (the love interest and the academy setting with a blond guy that wants to kill her - hello Jack Barlowe) - and I thought I would love it - i was wrong.
1. Do we really need to read how the MMC smelled like leather, smoke and something bittersweet/clean sweat every time he shows up? Every time. Please, to all the authors. Enough is enough.
2. The FMC was almost as bad as Diem - get a grip girl, every decision she made was wrong. And then she got three friends that showed her several times they can be trusted (btw I am talking about the 36% that I read), yet every time they wanted to help her she had the same inner monologue how ‘i cannot put my walls down or i’ll lose it’. At some point I LOST IT.
3. This is now the second book where when writing the inner monologue of a character the author writes it like ‘what was this person thinking? What if they plan to do something to me? What if i am wrong?’ - all formulated as questions. No disrespect, but this is how I wrote my middle school essays and in a published book I expect better writing. It is, to me personally, very grating.
4. Please mind the setting and vocabulary. This is very obviously not an urban fantasy, modern setting. The healing is done with some kind of spice. Yet there was a joke reference to ‘i hope the girls have good life insurance’. This was almost as bad as ‘cliff notes’ comment in Quicksilver for me.
Anyhow, this was just not for me and I will sadly not be recommending this. I had to DNF when I realized I am forcing myself to read it.
December 9, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the chance to read this before the publication date & to the author, Becky Jane Fox for accepting me to read this!
Whilst a really good start & I wanted to keep going & couldn’t wait to continue, it had very strong fourth wing vibes. I didn’t want a replica of that as it simply cannot be replicated! I really wanted it to be different & it was.
Lovely dependable Bren versus the dangerous, hot as hell Talen - who does Lyra want?! Who wants Lyra?!
Lyra, an outlander makes a mistake & it changes things for her, her life takes an unexpected turn. Thrust into the innerlands, like her Mother once was, she has to endure a set amount of time - can she do it? Can she come out unscathed, make the right choices, take the right path, control her magic? Among the air, water, earth & fire realms.
This book had me hooked from the start & as I got further & further into it the more I wanted to read. I loved the way it was written, the relatability about how our minds spiral & our inability to control our emotions (not just me after all!!).
The cliffhanger at the end was brilliant & I didn’t guess but it makes total sense - I’ll be patiently waiting for book 2! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Whilst a really good start & I wanted to keep going & couldn’t wait to continue, it had very strong fourth wing vibes. I didn’t want a replica of that as it simply cannot be replicated! I really wanted it to be different & it was.
Lovely dependable Bren versus the dangerous, hot as hell Talen - who does Lyra want?! Who wants Lyra?!
Lyra, an outlander makes a mistake & it changes things for her, her life takes an unexpected turn. Thrust into the innerlands, like her Mother once was, she has to endure a set amount of time - can she do it? Can she come out unscathed, make the right choices, take the right path, control her magic? Among the air, water, earth & fire realms.
This book had me hooked from the start & as I got further & further into it the more I wanted to read. I loved the way it was written, the relatability about how our minds spiral & our inability to control our emotions (not just me after all!!).
The cliffhanger at the end was brilliant & I didn’t guess but it makes total sense - I’ll be patiently waiting for book 2! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a spoiler free ARC review. Veins of Power releases on January 20th. Y'all better be ready to have your minds blown by this book. The world and character building are phenomenal, the magic is elemental, but in a unique way, it starts off with a bang (literally 🤣) and ends with a jaw dropping revelation leading into book 2.
In my opinion this is better than Fourth Wing, and right up at the top of my books of the year list with The Ascended.
Tropes: Slow Burn/Enemies to Lovers/Forbidden Magic/Dragons
In my opinion this is better than Fourth Wing, and right up at the top of my books of the year list with The Ascended.
Tropes: Slow Burn/Enemies to Lovers/Forbidden Magic/Dragons
December 8, 2025
This book. Wow. I don’t even know where to begin. It will absolutely wreck you emotionally 😭 and leave you with a brutal book hangover 🤯. Lyra Bloom and Talon are officially my new favorite book couple—the tension between them is off the charts 🔥💘.
I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this as an ARC 🙌… though it also feels like a curse because that cliffhanger at the end? Pure torment 😩.
If you love Throne of Glass or Fourth Wing, you need to pre-order this book immediately 📚✨. I cannot wait for Book 2 and to see where this series takes me 🚀.
100/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I’m so grateful I had the chance to read this as an ARC 🙌… though it also feels like a curse because that cliffhanger at the end? Pure torment 😩.
If you love Throne of Glass or Fourth Wing, you need to pre-order this book immediately 📚✨. I cannot wait for Book 2 and to see where this series takes me 🚀.
100/5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
November 24, 2025
I loved this book so much. The story building was amazing, This story captivated me from the start it was so well written. Lyra is a badass protagonist and I love her so much. Each chapter I had to keep reading cause I needed to know what happends. I like the friendships and her learning about her and her family was very interesting especially with how she veiwed the citadel and what they did .How she learnt about her powers and could control them and how to use them when she needed to as well. I will say I need book 2 because I need to know what happends next as it did end on a cliff hanger. But overall it was an amazing story I love going on Lyras adventure and you have done an amazing job with everything. The twist and turns in this book will have you turning each page like your life depends on it. I couldn't put it down especially from chapter 20 it had great rhythm everything that happend and was learnt fit well with where in the story we were.
This was my first ARC read and I would like to say to Becky thank you much for choosing me to be one. This book will be going into my comfort reads folder and I will definitely be recommending it to my friends that love a good fantasy read with a great plot and twist and turns that have people needing to read more.
This was my first ARC read and I would like to say to Becky thank you much for choosing me to be one. This book will be going into my comfort reads folder and I will definitely be recommending it to my friends that love a good fantasy read with a great plot and twist and turns that have people needing to read more.
November 23, 2025
Had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for this amazing author( its also my first time😛)
to start; holy god damn, this book is pretty flipping amazing. the plot had me on the floor, the betrayals had me crying and the only thing that could have been better was the writing. But as someone who doesnt rlly gaf abt that type of stuff i overlooked it, i continued reading because the plot was so damn good. completly ignored, so id say its a book you should add to ur tbr!
This has to be a 5 star book for me, had everything i was looking for- an obsessed man and an emotionally unstable fmc that struggles with her power potential and a whole lot of secrets.
i need a second book asap please
to start; holy god damn, this book is pretty flipping amazing. the plot had me on the floor, the betrayals had me crying and the only thing that could have been better was the writing. But as someone who doesnt rlly gaf abt that type of stuff i overlooked it, i continued reading because the plot was so damn good. completly ignored, so id say its a book you should add to ur tbr!
This has to be a 5 star book for me, had everything i was looking for- an obsessed man and an emotionally unstable fmc that struggles with her power potential and a whole lot of secrets.
i need a second book asap please
November 25, 2025
I had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for this one & I absolutely loved it! The romance, the friendships, messy relationships all of it. I think this book is so well written & it kept me up at night reading because I needed to know what happens next!
I will definitely be recommending it to all my fantasy loving friends!
The fact that we have to wait for the second book feels criminal 😭
I will definitely be recommending it to all my fantasy loving friends!
The fact that we have to wait for the second book feels criminal 😭
January 4, 2026
If political intrigue, magic with teeth, and a heroine who refuses to stay in her lane are your thing, congrats, Veins of Power just moved up your TBR. This first installment in the Threads of the Fifth Realm series wastes no time tossing us into a world where power is literal, dangerous, and very much not evenly distributed.
Lyra, our Outerlander main character, is the kind of protagonist I love: bruised by her past, stubborn as hell, and still standing. Watching her navigate the Innerlands while wrestling with her identity and buried trauma makes her feel real, not polished. She doesn’t glide through danger, she fights, questions, and sometimes stumbles, which only makes her more compelling.
The world-building? Chef’s kiss. The magic system feels intentional and structured, and the divide between Innerlands and Outerlands adds a sharp political edge that keeps the stakes high. You feel the imbalance of power, and it’s deliciously uncomfortable.
And then there’s Talen. Ah yes. The Veirmont officer who brings tension, conflict, and that delightful “should I trust you or stab you?” energy. His dynamic with Lyra crackles with unresolved tension and layered motives…exactly how I like it.
That said, the pacing in the early chapters can feel a bit rushed, as if the world is sprinting ahead before you’ve fully caught your breath. A few secondary characters could also use more depth, especially given how rich the setting is.
Overall, Veins of Power is a strong, addictive series opener with sharp edges, emotional weight, and plenty of promise. If you enjoy fantasy that blends political tension, slow-burn conflict, and a heroine who doesn’t ask for permission…this one’s for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lyra, our Outerlander main character, is the kind of protagonist I love: bruised by her past, stubborn as hell, and still standing. Watching her navigate the Innerlands while wrestling with her identity and buried trauma makes her feel real, not polished. She doesn’t glide through danger, she fights, questions, and sometimes stumbles, which only makes her more compelling.
The world-building? Chef’s kiss. The magic system feels intentional and structured, and the divide between Innerlands and Outerlands adds a sharp political edge that keeps the stakes high. You feel the imbalance of power, and it’s deliciously uncomfortable.
And then there’s Talen. Ah yes. The Veirmont officer who brings tension, conflict, and that delightful “should I trust you or stab you?” energy. His dynamic with Lyra crackles with unresolved tension and layered motives…exactly how I like it.
That said, the pacing in the early chapters can feel a bit rushed, as if the world is sprinting ahead before you’ve fully caught your breath. A few secondary characters could also use more depth, especially given how rich the setting is.
Overall, Veins of Power is a strong, addictive series opener with sharp edges, emotional weight, and plenty of promise. If you enjoy fantasy that blends political tension, slow-burn conflict, and a heroine who doesn’t ask for permission…this one’s for you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What can I even say about this book, as I loved every part of it! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you Netgalley and Becky allowing me to read this arc! It is definitely up there with one of my faves reads of the year! 🖤🖤
Veins of Power by Becky Jane Fox completely pulled me in and refused to let go. The world building is so immersive, the magic system well thought out and the stakes just keep climbing. The plot strikes a great balance between action and emotion, with twists that actually land and keep the tension high throughout. If you've read this book, then you know the last 15% was crazy!! Twists and that cliffhanger 😱😱
Lyra is such a standout FMC for me. Gierce, loyal, and incredibly strong-willed, even though at times I wanted to bang her head against a wall and be like... girl... come on! 😂 I loved her determination and refusal to back down, even when the odds were stacked against her. She felt powerful without being perfect, which made her journey even more compelling.
Talen, on the other hand, is peak broody, grumpy MMC energy!!! I mean that in the very best way because... swoon! 🥵. As Lyra’s nemesis in the beginning, the tension between them was deliciously sharp and every interaction crackled. Their dynamic added so much depth to the story and kept me fully invested... all the way to the very end!
With unforgettable characters, high stakes and a story that lingers long after the final page, this was an absolutely easy five star read for me.
It you love a high stakes romantasy read, with a unique magic system, academic setting, slow burn, enemies to lovers and yes... DRAGONS!! Then this one is for you! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
Thank you Netgalley and Becky allowing me to read this arc! It is definitely up there with one of my faves reads of the year! 🖤🖤
Veins of Power by Becky Jane Fox completely pulled me in and refused to let go. The world building is so immersive, the magic system well thought out and the stakes just keep climbing. The plot strikes a great balance between action and emotion, with twists that actually land and keep the tension high throughout. If you've read this book, then you know the last 15% was crazy!! Twists and that cliffhanger 😱😱
Lyra is such a standout FMC for me. Gierce, loyal, and incredibly strong-willed, even though at times I wanted to bang her head against a wall and be like... girl... come on! 😂 I loved her determination and refusal to back down, even when the odds were stacked against her. She felt powerful without being perfect, which made her journey even more compelling.
Talen, on the other hand, is peak broody, grumpy MMC energy!!! I mean that in the very best way because... swoon! 🥵. As Lyra’s nemesis in the beginning, the tension between them was deliciously sharp and every interaction crackled. Their dynamic added so much depth to the story and kept me fully invested... all the way to the very end!
With unforgettable characters, high stakes and a story that lingers long after the final page, this was an absolutely easy five star read for me.
It you love a high stakes romantasy read, with a unique magic system, academic setting, slow burn, enemies to lovers and yes... DRAGONS!! Then this one is for you! 🙌🏻🙌🏻
November 27, 2025
Veins of Power is the kind of fantasy that creeps under your skin in the best way. It’s a slow burn that smolders—never rushed, always deliberate—pulling you deeper into a world where every glance, every choice, and every shadow matters. The tension between the leads is deliciously sharp, that perfect enemies-to-lovers edge that keeps you reading “one more chapter” long past when you meant to stop.
The magical system is fresh, layered, and complex without ever feeling overwhelming. You can tell the author planted secrets like little runes throughout the pages—subtle clues, quiet portents, and Easter eggs that reward you for paying attention.
And then there’s the “touch her and die” energy—feral, protective, and executed with just the right amount of restraint. The stakes feel real, and so does the danger. The book isn’t afraid to show its teeth; the violence, the battles, the unraveling of old loyalties—all of it builds a world that feels lived-in and volatile.
Add dragons (because what’s a dark fantasy without creatures that could burn you to ash?), and you have a story that keeps you on your toes from start to finish.
Just when you think you’ve finally solved the puzzle… the book pulls the floor out from under you. You think you have everything figured out, but trust me—you don’t. And that’s what makes it so satisfying.
A gripping, atmospheric read that sinks its claws in early and refuses to let go.
The magical system is fresh, layered, and complex without ever feeling overwhelming. You can tell the author planted secrets like little runes throughout the pages—subtle clues, quiet portents, and Easter eggs that reward you for paying attention.
And then there’s the “touch her and die” energy—feral, protective, and executed with just the right amount of restraint. The stakes feel real, and so does the danger. The book isn’t afraid to show its teeth; the violence, the battles, the unraveling of old loyalties—all of it builds a world that feels lived-in and volatile.
Add dragons (because what’s a dark fantasy without creatures that could burn you to ash?), and you have a story that keeps you on your toes from start to finish.
Just when you think you’ve finally solved the puzzle… the book pulls the floor out from under you. You think you have everything figured out, but trust me—you don’t. And that’s what makes it so satisfying.
A gripping, atmospheric read that sinks its claws in early and refuses to let go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2026
ARC Review – Veins of Power
“Lyra, I want the parts you never let anyone touch…”
“You don’t know how long I’ve been holding back.”
And honestly? That says everything.
This book was an easy five stars for me. The yearning alone could power an entire kingdom. Add in dragons, magic, deadly trials, and a slow-burn tension so sharp it hurts—in the best way—and I was completely done for.
Yes, it follows the romantasy formula… and I loved every single second of it. Give me the trials. Give me the secrets. Give me the one bed trope and fake dating that spirals into something dangerously real. I was hooked from the start and fully unwell by the end.
Talen and Lyra have that kind of chemistry where every glance feels loaded and every almost-moment leaves you screaming. The restraint. The longing. The things left unsaid. I need to talk about the secrets, but I can’t—and that might be the cruelest part of all.
Waiting for more of them is actually excruciating. All I want to do is reread, theorize, and obsess over what’s coming next.
If you love romantasy with high stakes, aching tension, and tropes that hit exactly the way you want them to—Veins of Power will absolutely own you. And I am not okay about it.
“Lyra, I want the parts you never let anyone touch…”
“You don’t know how long I’ve been holding back.”
And honestly? That says everything.
This book was an easy five stars for me. The yearning alone could power an entire kingdom. Add in dragons, magic, deadly trials, and a slow-burn tension so sharp it hurts—in the best way—and I was completely done for.
Yes, it follows the romantasy formula… and I loved every single second of it. Give me the trials. Give me the secrets. Give me the one bed trope and fake dating that spirals into something dangerously real. I was hooked from the start and fully unwell by the end.
Talen and Lyra have that kind of chemistry where every glance feels loaded and every almost-moment leaves you screaming. The restraint. The longing. The things left unsaid. I need to talk about the secrets, but I can’t—and that might be the cruelest part of all.
Waiting for more of them is actually excruciating. All I want to do is reread, theorize, and obsess over what’s coming next.
If you love romantasy with high stakes, aching tension, and tropes that hit exactly the way you want them to—Veins of Power will absolutely own you. And I am not okay about it.
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