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City of Iron and Ivy
This beguiling historical romantasy debut blends dark academia with the glamour of Bridgerton, as a scholar of magic investigates her sister’s murder—perfect for fans of Heather Fawcett and H. G. Parry.
In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Suddenly the last scion of her house, Elswyth must abandon her studies and find a wealthy husband. She is thrust into a London fueled by hedge witches sprout nightshade from their fingertips, high-born ladies weave gowns from wildflowers … and a serial killer called the Reaper transforms his victims into plant-human hybrids.
When clues suggest the Reaper is a powerful nobleman, Elswyth’s search for her sister’s killer and her hunt for a husband become one and the same. But she is drawn to bastard-born archaeologist Silas Blackthorn—who may have dark, twisted secrets of his own.
Elswyth must determine friend from foe and lover from liar—or suffer the same fate as her sister.
In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Suddenly the last scion of her house, Elswyth must abandon her studies and find a wealthy husband. She is thrust into a London fueled by hedge witches sprout nightshade from their fingertips, high-born ladies weave gowns from wildflowers … and a serial killer called the Reaper transforms his victims into plant-human hybrids.
When clues suggest the Reaper is a powerful nobleman, Elswyth’s search for her sister’s killer and her hunt for a husband become one and the same. But she is drawn to bastard-born archaeologist Silas Blackthorn—who may have dark, twisted secrets of his own.
Elswyth must determine friend from foe and lover from liar—or suffer the same fate as her sister.
18 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 21, 2026
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Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️ 5 ⭐️ This book is what I'd call an intellectual historical fantasy that is elegantly written, beautifully explored with narration that personally elevated my experience while also being historically accurate. It has a world that feels elegant yet dangerous, botanical magic that is both educational and medicinally accurate and a scholarly heroine that is impossible to dislike. Set in alternative Victorian London, City of Iron and Ivy is a perfect blend of Bridgerton-esque social (scheming) season and Jack the Ripper murder mystery. It's brimming with floriography, the Victorian language of flowers and their uses in potions, medicine and poisons that gives the story originality and its gorgeous descriptive visuals fully immerse you into this world--a world that is not all flowers and butterflies. It's dark, dangerous, exciting--it has gothic elements, dark secrets, glamour and the allure of Victorian Era that is so captivating. It wholeheartedly pulled me in and I can't express how much I've enjoyed alternating between listening to the audiobook and reading my Allurial edition. If you're looking for something that is different, something that is unique and well done, look no further, give this book a go and if you can tolerate the long narration--go for it!
Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn amongst the roses. She's a scholar amongst the socialites and possesses floromancy. Her sister, Persephone is her complete opposite--beautiful, graceful, a debutante--is kidnapped and assumed to be murdered by a notorious serial killer known as 'The Reaper'. This forces Elswyth to drop her academic pursuits and secure a wealthy husband to save her family from financial ruin. She is convinced that her sister may not be dead and begins conducting investigations while navigating the world of glamour and dark secrets. She meets Silas Blackthorn, a bastard-born archaeologist to whom she feels attracted to yet possibly suspects in being involved in her sisters disappearance. She eventually forms an alliance with Silas which in turn leads to a slow-burn romance (that is very much a subplot in the story) that never really overshadows the core of the mystery. The investigation turns into a full blown journey that is full of twists and turns and roadblocks that will eventually converge and solidify into an exciting murder mystery that reads like a Sherlock Holmes novel. The mystery leads you to a conclusion that is both shocking yet up for a debate, not entirely what you'd expect, but nevertheless one that can lead to an alternative storyline. Even though this is a standalone, I can see how this has potential to be expanded.
This is honestly one of the best books that I've picked up this year so far in this historical/fantasy genre. It had all of my favorite elements and I can't recommend it enough. Thomas Kent West, with whom I had the pleasure of connecting online, wrote a tale that is perfectly tailored to my liking. I can't even say anything negative about it because I liked every single aspect of it--I am a sucker for historical fantasy especially if it revolves around the regency period and has a correct portrayal of medicinal accuracy, as this one did with the uses of herbs, flowers and botanical elements in use of ailments, potions and poisons!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Audio and the author, Thomas Kent West for an early ALC!
Narrator: Chloe Campbell
Duration: 17 hours 50 min
Speed: 1.5x
Publication date: April 21, 2026
Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn amongst the roses. She's a scholar amongst the socialites and possesses floromancy. Her sister, Persephone is her complete opposite--beautiful, graceful, a debutante--is kidnapped and assumed to be murdered by a notorious serial killer known as 'The Reaper'. This forces Elswyth to drop her academic pursuits and secure a wealthy husband to save her family from financial ruin. She is convinced that her sister may not be dead and begins conducting investigations while navigating the world of glamour and dark secrets. She meets Silas Blackthorn, a bastard-born archaeologist to whom she feels attracted to yet possibly suspects in being involved in her sisters disappearance. She eventually forms an alliance with Silas which in turn leads to a slow-burn romance (that is very much a subplot in the story) that never really overshadows the core of the mystery. The investigation turns into a full blown journey that is full of twists and turns and roadblocks that will eventually converge and solidify into an exciting murder mystery that reads like a Sherlock Holmes novel. The mystery leads you to a conclusion that is both shocking yet up for a debate, not entirely what you'd expect, but nevertheless one that can lead to an alternative storyline. Even though this is a standalone, I can see how this has potential to be expanded.
This is honestly one of the best books that I've picked up this year so far in this historical/fantasy genre. It had all of my favorite elements and I can't recommend it enough. Thomas Kent West, with whom I had the pleasure of connecting online, wrote a tale that is perfectly tailored to my liking. I can't even say anything negative about it because I liked every single aspect of it--I am a sucker for historical fantasy especially if it revolves around the regency period and has a correct portrayal of medicinal accuracy, as this one did with the uses of herbs, flowers and botanical elements in use of ailments, potions and poisons!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Audio and the author, Thomas Kent West for an early ALC!
Narrator: Chloe Campbell
Duration: 17 hours 50 min
Speed: 1.5x
Publication date: April 21, 2026
August 31, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ yawn. what was otherwise a really good idea went absolutely nowhere at an excruciatingly snail-travel pace. i really wanted to love this. it took a while to get into, then my interest piqued a bit somewhere…but then it sputtered out and the book lost its grasp on me. by the time things got a touch more interesting deep into this brick, i was already disinvested and was just reading to finish it.
what sold this to me initially (outside of the gorgeous cover) was the promise of a murder mystery, botanical magic and a hero with “dark twisted secrets” — i know what i am and i fall real quick for a broody mmc. the bridgerton aspect didn’t really get me to read this because while i enjoyed the first couple seasons of the tv show, i wasn’t all that interested in reading a story that revolves around frivolous marriage market politics. unfortunately, instead of the things i was lured in by taking center stage, the lessons taught to the fmc to be able to snag a husband, drama surrounding a season in the ton to find said husband, gossip, and petty sabotage take up a lot of the story — and the murder mystery fades into the background until the last third of the book. the romance is also a subplot (and i have an important-to-know spoiler about this at the end of my review). this would have been more than ok if the story outside of this was more engaging to me. however, because it wasn’t, there wasn’t much else to balance out the marriage market A-plot that consumes this book for the vast majority of it. we also have another disappeared sibling situation here — i sure know how to pick em. 😩 i was absolutely clawing my way through this and fighting sleep in the process.
let’s get down to brass tacks.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the writing
it’s the strongest aspect of the book from a stylistic perspective only. it’s well-written, that i cannot deny. the story and its pace are where things faltered for me, but i never had an issue with this element. it’s not too flowery (ha ha) and i liked the little floriography passages at the beginning of every chapter, conveying meanings of different flowers and plants.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the magic
the botanical magic, or floromancy as it’s called in this world, was really nice and descriptive enough…but it had so few exciting use cases for too damn long in here!!! it read like window dressing until that last third of an almost 600-page tome. up until then, it’s mostly used for adornment, growing things here and there and some poisoning. i found myself hungry for more. by the time that more came, i was already tussling with this book just to end it all 😂.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the characters
i wasn’t connected to or interested in a single person in here.
the entire story is told from the perspective of the fmc, elswyth. author done gave her a full face-to-body scar, a scholarly appetite, sisterly love and a touch of mystery but forgot to give her a personality. she wants an education over getting married. real. the scar makes her “undesirable” and the mission of finding a husband more tricky. cool. she loves botany and is an innately talented floromancer. ok. she’s searching for her sister’s killer. fine. AND? i couldn’t tell you anything else about her as a person beyond these things, truly.
silas (the mmc, if you can even call him that because he was a ghost in here…and i don’t mean that literally) was a bit hot and mysterious when he first appears on the scene, but his character never really took off from a promising and titillating introduction. he ended up being very bland. also, the blatant racism against him was irking me. he was part-indian and society kept painting him in a negative light because of this and that he was a “bastard” (and a rake, but i didn’t care about that). now, i know these things around racism and “bastardry” (i use inverted commas here because i don’t actually like that word in this context) are a product of the time, but all the repetitive mentions were really bothering me and the derogatory racial ones, specifically, felt irrelevant to the plot. i wish the author just made him white.
most of the characters and their motivations were so very simple. even the side characters didn’t do much for me, except maybe kehinde who was elswyth’s uncle’s steward and someone who was teaching her more floromancy. otherwise, prominent side characters are limited to an eccentric uncle, the uptight matchmaker / etiquette tutor trying to get elswyth into shape to win the husband war, elswyth’s mentor, and vapid court girls in the otherwise vain society. there was little dimension to any of these people. everyone else that played roles were boring.
the lack of complexity of the characters wouldn’t have bothered me so much IF the romance was more dizzying and fun, the humour levels were UPPPP and if the plot was more dynamic and fast-paced, but since none of those things are true to my experience here, this simplicity stood out way more.
°•*⁀➷ the murder mystery
it’s so incredibly slow!!! over 60% into an almost 600-pager and i felt as though nothing of consequence had really happened on that front, my god. a few people died along the way, adding to the body count, but we weren’t learning anything significant about the killer or getting any closer to uncovering who it was. like i said, things pick up in the last third, but this book shouldn’t have taken that many pages to get there.
i was also expecting the atmosphere of the entire read to be a bit darker with this jack the ripper-esque hook as a big part of the book’s premise (and how the book began), but it all ended up feeling very mild and not very haunting. everything felt monotone, even when the characters were put into some “dangerous” situations.
i will say that the climax and resolution of this had some unpredictability and solid beats to it…but again, just so long to get there and for what???
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the romance
sure…it’s there if you squint, but neither the chemistry nor tension was palpable and forget about development and yearning because there’s nada — so i didn’t feel a lick for these people. these two really didn’t give me a lot to work with. the one spicy scene that they had felt a little iffy and awkward too. that’s all i got to say.
°•*⁀➷ let’s pack it right on up
sigh. all in all, this was a very disappointing read. again, i do not think it’s badly written style-wise (which made me consider giving it 3 stars), but i didn’t actually like that much of it enough to go that high. it could work for others though (and it has). i wouldn’t want to discourage anyone from giving it a go. if you like bridgerton vibes, i think this may be a book you could really enjoy!
⚠️ spoiler ahead!!! i think it’s important to know if you are wanting to read this as a romantasy, as promised by the blurb. i want to warn potential readers ⚠️
the marketing on this is false: it’s not a romantasy in the traditional sense and there’s no HEA for the pairing. i think that’s good to know if you’re wanting to try this expecting that, because you’d have wasted your time reading almost 600 pages for a love story that is very negligible in the grand scheme of things (given how much page time is dedicated to it) AND for the couple to not even end up together. this ending had no bearing on my rating (it was all my other complaints that did me in) but i thought to mention this, as a “romantasy” claim on this is a bit misleading. stay safe out here 😅.
what sold this to me initially (outside of the gorgeous cover) was the promise of a murder mystery, botanical magic and a hero with “dark twisted secrets” — i know what i am and i fall real quick for a broody mmc. the bridgerton aspect didn’t really get me to read this because while i enjoyed the first couple seasons of the tv show, i wasn’t all that interested in reading a story that revolves around frivolous marriage market politics. unfortunately, instead of the things i was lured in by taking center stage, the lessons taught to the fmc to be able to snag a husband, drama surrounding a season in the ton to find said husband, gossip, and petty sabotage take up a lot of the story — and the murder mystery fades into the background until the last third of the book. the romance is also a subplot (and i have an important-to-know spoiler about this at the end of my review). this would have been more than ok if the story outside of this was more engaging to me. however, because it wasn’t, there wasn’t much else to balance out the marriage market A-plot that consumes this book for the vast majority of it. we also have another disappeared sibling situation here — i sure know how to pick em. 😩 i was absolutely clawing my way through this and fighting sleep in the process.
let’s get down to brass tacks.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the writing
it’s the strongest aspect of the book from a stylistic perspective only. it’s well-written, that i cannot deny. the story and its pace are where things faltered for me, but i never had an issue with this element. it’s not too flowery (ha ha) and i liked the little floriography passages at the beginning of every chapter, conveying meanings of different flowers and plants.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the magic
the botanical magic, or floromancy as it’s called in this world, was really nice and descriptive enough…but it had so few exciting use cases for too damn long in here!!! it read like window dressing until that last third of an almost 600-page tome. up until then, it’s mostly used for adornment, growing things here and there and some poisoning. i found myself hungry for more. by the time that more came, i was already tussling with this book just to end it all 😂.
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the characters
i wasn’t connected to or interested in a single person in here.
the entire story is told from the perspective of the fmc, elswyth. author done gave her a full face-to-body scar, a scholarly appetite, sisterly love and a touch of mystery but forgot to give her a personality. she wants an education over getting married. real. the scar makes her “undesirable” and the mission of finding a husband more tricky. cool. she loves botany and is an innately talented floromancer. ok. she’s searching for her sister’s killer. fine. AND? i couldn’t tell you anything else about her as a person beyond these things, truly.
silas (the mmc, if you can even call him that because he was a ghost in here…and i don’t mean that literally) was a bit hot and mysterious when he first appears on the scene, but his character never really took off from a promising and titillating introduction. he ended up being very bland. also, the blatant racism against him was irking me. he was part-indian and society kept painting him in a negative light because of this and that he was a “bastard” (and a rake, but i didn’t care about that). now, i know these things around racism and “bastardry” (i use inverted commas here because i don’t actually like that word in this context) are a product of the time, but all the repetitive mentions were really bothering me and the derogatory racial ones, specifically, felt irrelevant to the plot. i wish the author just made him white.
most of the characters and their motivations were so very simple. even the side characters didn’t do much for me, except maybe kehinde who was elswyth’s uncle’s steward and someone who was teaching her more floromancy. otherwise, prominent side characters are limited to an eccentric uncle, the uptight matchmaker / etiquette tutor trying to get elswyth into shape to win the husband war, elswyth’s mentor, and vapid court girls in the otherwise vain society. there was little dimension to any of these people. everyone else that played roles were boring.
the lack of complexity of the characters wouldn’t have bothered me so much IF the romance was more dizzying and fun, the humour levels were UPPPP and if the plot was more dynamic and fast-paced, but since none of those things are true to my experience here, this simplicity stood out way more.
°•*⁀➷ the murder mystery
it’s so incredibly slow!!! over 60% into an almost 600-pager and i felt as though nothing of consequence had really happened on that front, my god. a few people died along the way, adding to the body count, but we weren’t learning anything significant about the killer or getting any closer to uncovering who it was. like i said, things pick up in the last third, but this book shouldn’t have taken that many pages to get there.
i was also expecting the atmosphere of the entire read to be a bit darker with this jack the ripper-esque hook as a big part of the book’s premise (and how the book began), but it all ended up feeling very mild and not very haunting. everything felt monotone, even when the characters were put into some “dangerous” situations.
i will say that the climax and resolution of this had some unpredictability and solid beats to it…but again, just so long to get there and for what???
ˋ°•*⁀➷ the romance
sure…it’s there if you squint, but neither the chemistry nor tension was palpable and forget about development and yearning because there’s nada — so i didn’t feel a lick for these people. these two really didn’t give me a lot to work with. the one spicy scene that they had felt a little iffy and awkward too. that’s all i got to say.
°•*⁀➷ let’s pack it right on up
sigh. all in all, this was a very disappointing read. again, i do not think it’s badly written style-wise (which made me consider giving it 3 stars), but i didn’t actually like that much of it enough to go that high. it could work for others though (and it has). i wouldn’t want to discourage anyone from giving it a go. if you like bridgerton vibes, i think this may be a book you could really enjoy!
⚠️ spoiler ahead!!! i think it’s important to know if you are wanting to read this as a romantasy, as promised by the blurb. i want to warn potential readers ⚠️
the marketing on this is false: it’s not a romantasy in the traditional sense and there’s no HEA for the pairing. i think that’s good to know if you’re wanting to try this expecting that, because you’d have wasted your time reading almost 600 pages for a love story that is very negligible in the grand scheme of things (given how much page time is dedicated to it) AND for the couple to not even end up together. this ending had no bearing on my rating (it was all my other complaints that did me in) but i thought to mention this, as a “romantasy” claim on this is a bit misleading. stay safe out here 😅.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.0 ★— This book comes pretty close to what I imagine a historical fantasy written by Poison Ivy would be like!
Advertising itself as a mix of Bridgerton with alllll the dark academia vibes, I would like to make clear to the people that are here for the swoonworthy romance a Bridgerton comparison invokes… this book, while featuring a small romantic subplot, is NOT a romance!
This story is very much focused on the heroine attempting to solve the mystery surrounding her sister’s supposed murder, while she tries to survive a London season in which she needs to find a husband to save her family from financial ruin.
I’ll start with what I really liked: the botanical elements really worked for me! This version of London that’s presented here is filled with aristocratic and gentry families that have botanical powers, which I found fascinating and well integrated into this story. There were some really cool moments where plant magic was used in more gruesome and macabre ways that really did stay with me for a bit and which I loved seeing depicted.
Elswyth herself was also mostly a solid main character to follow. With facial scars that make her an outsider to this high-strung society she enters, she was a pretty interesting underdog type of character I was rooting for during this.
Now… what didn’t work for me was the romantic subplot with a male love interest that I never personally warmed up to. As this isn’t a romance, I was honestly happy for a lot of his absence. There were attempts to make Silas interesting, with him being an illegitimate son and of Indian descent, making him just as much of an outsider as Elswyth. But too often than not I felt like his character boiled down to him being a sexy rake that was there to make the heroine blush. I’ll say that I liked how the ending handled everything regarding him, vindicating some feelings I had towards him as a character.
Also, one big impression I can’t let go of is that this story felt a little too long. I made this a tandem read, listening to some parts on audio while reading others, and I think if I’d purely read this I would would not have had the patience to finish it. Too often I thought that the author could have really cut down on some parts of this, especially in the middle during Elswyth’s time in the ton, where it felt like the book dragged and dragged. So much so that I almost felt like I lost interest in the central mystery of Elswyth’s sister’s disappearance halfway through!
The ending reeled me back in, though, and I did like how this concluded, with it giving me enough drama to satisfy me, while also delivering on a resolution that made sense. I just think this book could have taken some shortcuts to get there.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
🎙️ Narration Style: Solo
⭐ Listener Rating: 5/5
The narrator was great! She locked me into the story, and I really do think that a British narrator helped with immersing me into this historical London-set story. I have absolutely no complaints!
________________________
Thank you to Forever for the ARC and to Hachette Audio for the ALC.
Advertising itself as a mix of Bridgerton with alllll the dark academia vibes, I would like to make clear to the people that are here for the swoonworthy romance a Bridgerton comparison invokes… this book, while featuring a small romantic subplot, is NOT a romance!
This story is very much focused on the heroine attempting to solve the mystery surrounding her sister’s supposed murder, while she tries to survive a London season in which she needs to find a husband to save her family from financial ruin.
I’ll start with what I really liked: the botanical elements really worked for me! This version of London that’s presented here is filled with aristocratic and gentry families that have botanical powers, which I found fascinating and well integrated into this story. There were some really cool moments where plant magic was used in more gruesome and macabre ways that really did stay with me for a bit and which I loved seeing depicted.
Elswyth herself was also mostly a solid main character to follow. With facial scars that make her an outsider to this high-strung society she enters, she was a pretty interesting underdog type of character I was rooting for during this.
Now… what didn’t work for me was the romantic subplot with a male love interest that I never personally warmed up to. As this isn’t a romance, I was honestly happy for a lot of his absence. There were attempts to make Silas interesting, with him being an illegitimate son and of Indian descent, making him just as much of an outsider as Elswyth. But too often than not I felt like his character boiled down to him being a sexy rake that was there to make the heroine blush. I’ll say that I liked how the ending handled everything regarding him, vindicating some feelings I had towards him as a character.
Also, one big impression I can’t let go of is that this story felt a little too long. I made this a tandem read, listening to some parts on audio while reading others, and I think if I’d purely read this I would would not have had the patience to finish it. Too often I thought that the author could have really cut down on some parts of this, especially in the middle during Elswyth’s time in the ton, where it felt like the book dragged and dragged. So much so that I almost felt like I lost interest in the central mystery of Elswyth’s sister’s disappearance halfway through!
The ending reeled me back in, though, and I did like how this concluded, with it giving me enough drama to satisfy me, while also delivering on a resolution that made sense. I just think this book could have taken some shortcuts to get there.
🎧 Audiobook Notes
🎙️ Narration Style: Solo
⭐ Listener Rating: 5/5
The narrator was great! She locked me into the story, and I really do think that a British narrator helped with immersing me into this historical London-set story. I have absolutely no complaints!
________________________
Thank you to Forever for the ARC and to Hachette Audio for the ALC.
Read
April 16, 2026Dear reader,
My name is Thomas West, and I am the author of City of Iron and Ivy. Thank for considering my debut novel as your next read! I'd like to take this opportunity to share the content warnings here on Goodreads, which are also available on my website, thomaskentwest.com.
City of Iron and Ivy is a dark fantasy-mystery set in a sometimes grim Victorian-inspired world. While it contains romance and adventure, it also deals with heavy themes and graphic situations. Reader discretion is advised. A full list of content warnings is below.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Mature topics mentioned, described or otherwise present in City of Iron and Ivy include, but are not limited to:
Please note that not all of these topics appear in the book in equal measure. To some readers, the instances of homophobia might seem extremely mild, while to others they may be glad for the warning. I endeavor to treat all topics equally as a means of continuing to make stories accessible to everyone.
I have tried to be as inclusive as possible for all content warnings, but, as with all books, there may be some content that is troubling to specific readers. As such, please be mindful when starting this book. I sincerely hope that you enjoy City of Iron and Ivy!
Your friend,
T.K.W.
My name is Thomas West, and I am the author of City of Iron and Ivy. Thank for considering my debut novel as your next read! I'd like to take this opportunity to share the content warnings here on Goodreads, which are also available on my website, thomaskentwest.com.
City of Iron and Ivy is a dark fantasy-mystery set in a sometimes grim Victorian-inspired world. While it contains romance and adventure, it also deals with heavy themes and graphic situations. Reader discretion is advised. A full list of content warnings is below.
SPOILERS AHEAD
Mature topics mentioned, described or otherwise present in City of Iron and Ivy include, but are not limited to:
Please note that not all of these topics appear in the book in equal measure. To some readers, the instances of homophobia might seem extremely mild, while to others they may be glad for the warning. I endeavor to treat all topics equally as a means of continuing to make stories accessible to everyone.
I have tried to be as inclusive as possible for all content warnings, but, as with all books, there may be some content that is troubling to specific readers. As such, please be mindful when starting this book. I sincerely hope that you enjoy City of Iron and Ivy!
Your friend,
T.K.W.
April 24, 2026
An obvious villain, but a wonderful main character.
An unexpected find that paired an enticing writing style with a Bridgerton-esque society and plant fantasy.
Scarred scholar Elswyth Elderwood investigates her sister's murder, discovering a serial killer who turns their victims into plants, all while navigating a desperate search for an unwanted husband to save her family.
The setting is what kept me enticed the whole time. In this alternate London, rhere exists floromancy (think hedge witches and high-born ladies wielding plant magic) and a grimy, atmospheric Victorian setting. I can rarely visualise scenes, but the author painted pictures in my mind.
I can’t say I truly understood the wishy-washy magic or world-building. Just accept is is wha it is.
I really liked Elswyth’s character. She was witty and sharp. She knows she is an indoor and books girl, rather than sporty or flirty.
She is ambitious and passionate in her pursuit of floromancy, despite putting her family first always.
Elswyth does make a few stupid decisions, just like many heroines. She does act rashly often.
Despite that, I enjoyed Elswyth’s interaction with different people in society and her quiet spunk.
I would not call this a romantasy. Yes, she’s sent to London searching for a husband. Yes, there is a slight romantic interest and a tiny bit of spice, but it is so minor. I feel like the cover and generic title does this book a disservice for those sworn against romantasy.
The audiobook narrrator was fabulous and truly brought this book and heroine to life.
Audiobook arc gifted by publisher.
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An unexpected find that paired an enticing writing style with a Bridgerton-esque society and plant fantasy.
Scarred scholar Elswyth Elderwood investigates her sister's murder, discovering a serial killer who turns their victims into plants, all while navigating a desperate search for an unwanted husband to save her family.
The setting is what kept me enticed the whole time. In this alternate London, rhere exists floromancy (think hedge witches and high-born ladies wielding plant magic) and a grimy, atmospheric Victorian setting. I can rarely visualise scenes, but the author painted pictures in my mind.
I can’t say I truly understood the wishy-washy magic or world-building. Just accept is is wha it is.
I really liked Elswyth’s character. She was witty and sharp. She knows she is an indoor and books girl, rather than sporty or flirty.
She is ambitious and passionate in her pursuit of floromancy, despite putting her family first always.
Elswyth does make a few stupid decisions, just like many heroines. She does act rashly often.
Despite that, I enjoyed Elswyth’s interaction with different people in society and her quiet spunk.
I would not call this a romantasy. Yes, she’s sent to London searching for a husband. Yes, there is a slight romantic interest and a tiny bit of spice, but it is so minor. I feel like the cover and generic title does this book a disservice for those sworn against romantasy.
The audiobook narrrator was fabulous and truly brought this book and heroine to life.
Audiobook arc gifted by publisher.
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August 14, 2026
“We are surrounded by monsters, Elswyth. The sooner you learn that, the safer you shall be.” 💐🌱🌼
HOW IS THIS BOOK NOT MORE POPULAR??? i mean, barely anyone has read this book and it’s THAT GOOD??? this is an outrage! you all need to pick up this book immediately if it sounds interesting to you, especially if you already have it on your tbr!
the plot!! 💐
it is the late 1800s and elswyth’s sister has gone missing in london while searching for a husband. after her sister is pronounced dead, even though her body was not discovered, elswyth has no choice but to take her place and search for a husband for herself, instead of seeking an education as she originally wished. since the case was closed, elswyth decides that she must solve the mystery of her sister’s disappearance herself. will she be able to find a husband? and, most importantly, will she be able to solve the mystery?
this book has it all! it’s a historical fantasy mystery with a touch of dark academia. it’s fantastic! i was fully obsessed from the beginning to the end. this book will captivate you and it won’t ever let you go!
the characters!! 🌱
i loved them! elswyth is such a determined, incredibly smart young woman who is so easy to like! she’s the perfect main character. even though this is true, i do believe that my favorite character was mrs. rose. she reminds me so much of effie trinket from the hunger games! she always had me laughing.
the ending!! 🌼
did i guess who the culprit was? yes, BUT it was pretty difficult to figure out. i did have doubts throughout the book, so that proves that the mystery was a good one!
I NEED A SECOND BOOK!!!!! i know this book isn’t popular, but a sequel would be fantastic. i mean, with an ending like that you have to have a sequel, right?? this book would perfectly set up a sequel. i need a sequel to this book like i need air to breathe. PLEASE! I AM BEGGING!!! everyone, please read this book so that a sequel would be more likely.
would i recommend this book? ✨
i’m recommending it right now, aren’t i? PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!!! YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!
would i read it again? ✨
YES!!!!! i already want to!
HOW IS THIS BOOK NOT MORE POPULAR??? i mean, barely anyone has read this book and it’s THAT GOOD??? this is an outrage! you all need to pick up this book immediately if it sounds interesting to you, especially if you already have it on your tbr!
the plot!! 💐
it is the late 1800s and elswyth’s sister has gone missing in london while searching for a husband. after her sister is pronounced dead, even though her body was not discovered, elswyth has no choice but to take her place and search for a husband for herself, instead of seeking an education as she originally wished. since the case was closed, elswyth decides that she must solve the mystery of her sister’s disappearance herself. will she be able to find a husband? and, most importantly, will she be able to solve the mystery?
this book has it all! it’s a historical fantasy mystery with a touch of dark academia. it’s fantastic! i was fully obsessed from the beginning to the end. this book will captivate you and it won’t ever let you go!
the characters!! 🌱
i loved them! elswyth is such a determined, incredibly smart young woman who is so easy to like! she’s the perfect main character. even though this is true, i do believe that my favorite character was mrs. rose. she reminds me so much of effie trinket from the hunger games! she always had me laughing.
the ending!! 🌼
did i guess who the culprit was? yes, BUT it was pretty difficult to figure out. i did have doubts throughout the book, so that proves that the mystery was a good one!
I NEED A SECOND BOOK!!!!! i know this book isn’t popular, but a sequel would be fantastic. i mean, with an ending like that you have to have a sequel, right?? this book would perfectly set up a sequel. i need a sequel to this book like i need air to breathe. PLEASE! I AM BEGGING!!! everyone, please read this book so that a sequel would be more likely.
would i recommend this book? ✨
i’m recommending it right now, aren’t i? PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!!! YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!
would i read it again? ✨
YES!!!!! i already want to!
November 25, 2025
EDIT: Thank you to everyone liking this as of late! Happy that the author's book sold out on BotM's sister site, too.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing a read.
I'm stingy with my 5 star reads. But honestly, this has everything I want:
- a smart female lead
- plant horror
- Victorian, AU London
- romance
- mystery
You have our prologue where a girl is heading to undo (er remove) a mistake by means of a side-street apothecary. The removal is unsuccessful, she isn't doing all too well when someone picks her up from the street covered in blood and attacks her with vines.
You realize a few things: this ain't your regular mystery, and that there is magic in this world. Picture the magic related to botany. That there was a blight that allowed a generation of people to have powers that create plants or use plants in certain ways.
The girl who was attacked has a sister and she is in mourning. She is now the one who has to marry in order to obtain her inheritance. Her father isn't doing too well, and so he gives her the choice of going to seek out a match this season or marrying someone unsavory. She chooses finding a match, thinking that she can try to solve the mystery of who hurt her sister.
It is here we meet friends, foes, and romantic interests. Took me out that she meets Silas (ML) screwing someone who turns out to be a foe later on. The more she comes in contact with him and with the girl that he was screwing the more she is unsure of if she's part of some nobility game or if they did something to her sister.
The horror aspect is that the Reaper character that is running around murdering girls / women is akin to Jack the Ripper. And soon, he sets his sights on her. But with the help of her matchmaker, her uncle's assistant (and love), her uncle, she is determined to make it through.
There was at a point I was going to give the book 4 stars
I really liked how different this story was, and yet how it fused all my favorite things together. After speaking to the author, he indicated he isn't done with the story yet. I am excited of seeing the character and the journey she will take in discovering more about her powers, the government problems, and future romance.
I'm also happy to see a male author write a female with a brain and giving her a good set of allies / friends.
So, give this one a chance. Hopefully we'll get a book two.
I want to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing a read.
I'm stingy with my 5 star reads. But honestly, this has everything I want:
- a smart female lead
- plant horror
- Victorian, AU London
- romance
- mystery
You have our prologue where a girl is heading to undo (er remove) a mistake by means of a side-street apothecary. The removal is unsuccessful, she isn't doing all too well when someone picks her up from the street covered in blood and attacks her with vines.
You realize a few things: this ain't your regular mystery, and that there is magic in this world. Picture the magic related to botany. That there was a blight that allowed a generation of people to have powers that create plants or use plants in certain ways.
The girl who was attacked has a sister and she is in mourning. She is now the one who has to marry in order to obtain her inheritance. Her father isn't doing too well, and so he gives her the choice of going to seek out a match this season or marrying someone unsavory. She chooses finding a match, thinking that she can try to solve the mystery of who hurt her sister.
It is here we meet friends, foes, and romantic interests. Took me out that she meets Silas (ML) screwing someone who turns out to be a foe later on. The more she comes in contact with him and with the girl that he was screwing the more she is unsure of if she's part of some nobility game or if they did something to her sister.
The horror aspect is that the Reaper character that is running around murdering girls / women is akin to Jack the Ripper. And soon, he sets his sights on her. But with the help of her matchmaker, her uncle's assistant (and love), her uncle, she is determined to make it through.
There was at a point I was going to give the book 4 stars
I really liked how different this story was, and yet how it fused all my favorite things together. After speaking to the author, he indicated he isn't done with the story yet. I am excited of seeing the character and the journey she will take in discovering more about her powers, the government problems, and future romance.
I'm also happy to see a male author write a female with a brain and giving her a good set of allies / friends.
So, give this one a chance. Hopefully we'll get a book two.
May 8, 2026
Thank you to netgalley and Hachette Audio for providing me with copy of this audiobook in return for an honest and voluntary review!
thinking about how to rate this book was a little difficult for me to be honest - there was a lot of positives in this book but the pacing of it made it feel like it was dragging a bit.
the premise and plot of this book was really fun! we follow a floromancer, Elswyth Elderwood, as she searches London for the person who murdered her sister Persephone. This is also paired with her being thrown into London at the time where the season has begun and she must look for a husband to marry. The use of floromancy was really interesting, i can see there was a lot of care put into this specifically and it really does show!
Everytime i thought i knew who the culprit was, another problem or piece of information popped up and threw everything on its head so it definitely kept me on my toes! Should this book have been slightly shorter or faster paced, i could definitely see myself rating it higher! I also dont reallyyy think this should be considered or listed as a romantasy - there is romance but its not a pivotal selling point of this book despite the whole 'searching for a husband' arc.
the narrator of this book was great! she does an amazing job of sounding like shes from the higher classes of regency england and was great as displaying Elswyths frustrations with her predicaments throughout the book. Id love to check out more of their work in the future!
thinking about how to rate this book was a little difficult for me to be honest - there was a lot of positives in this book but the pacing of it made it feel like it was dragging a bit.
the premise and plot of this book was really fun! we follow a floromancer, Elswyth Elderwood, as she searches London for the person who murdered her sister Persephone. This is also paired with her being thrown into London at the time where the season has begun and she must look for a husband to marry. The use of floromancy was really interesting, i can see there was a lot of care put into this specifically and it really does show!
Everytime i thought i knew who the culprit was, another problem or piece of information popped up and threw everything on its head so it definitely kept me on my toes! Should this book have been slightly shorter or faster paced, i could definitely see myself rating it higher! I also dont reallyyy think this should be considered or listed as a romantasy - there is romance but its not a pivotal selling point of this book despite the whole 'searching for a husband' arc.
the narrator of this book was great! she does an amazing job of sounding like shes from the higher classes of regency england and was great as displaying Elswyths frustrations with her predicaments throughout the book. Id love to check out more of their work in the future!
October 28, 2025
This book scratched an itch that ACOTAR also scratched. Fun combination of genres, lovable (and hatable) characters, and I adore any book that keeps me guessing!
April 23, 2026
Rating: 4 ⭐ | Audio: 5 ⭐
I really enjoyed this story! The "floromancy" magic is so unique and beautifully described. I’m daydreaming about sprouting flowers from my skin now. The world is a cool mix of gritty London, mystery, and even some botanical horror, with a bit of sharp humor that I loved.
Elswyth is a great lead - smart, strong, and a real "thorn among roses." It’s so nice to see a male author write such an intelligent female character. I was a bit confused by the "romantasy" label though. Тhe focus was definitely the mystery not the romance. Аnd the love interest- Silas wasn't really likable for me. I never felt a connection between them and the relationships felt a bit underdeveloped.
The ending was so sad. I actually teared up- definitely not a typical happy ending.
The audiobook was perfect. The narration captured the mood so well.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Audio, and Thomas Kent West for the ALC.
I really enjoyed this story! The "floromancy" magic is so unique and beautifully described. I’m daydreaming about sprouting flowers from my skin now. The world is a cool mix of gritty London, mystery, and even some botanical horror, with a bit of sharp humor that I loved.
Elswyth is a great lead - smart, strong, and a real "thorn among roses." It’s so nice to see a male author write such an intelligent female character. I was a bit confused by the "romantasy" label though. Тhe focus was definitely the mystery not the romance. Аnd the love interest- Silas wasn't really likable for me. I never felt a connection between them and the relationships felt a bit underdeveloped.
The ending was so sad. I actually teared up- definitely not a typical happy ending.
The audiobook was perfect. The narration captured the mood so well.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Audio, and Thomas Kent West for the ALC.
June 2, 2026
I AM SO OBSESSED WITH THIS
April 5, 2026
This was such a unique read. The plant-based magic was incredibly well done. It’s beautiful but also unsettling in a way that gave the whole story a creepy, almost horror-like edge. Think Bridgerton vibes, but darker, bloodier, and rooted in botany horror.
The atmosphere was easily my favorite part it was lush, vivid, and immersive. I could picture everything so clearly, and the magic system felt fresh and original.
That said, the relationships felt a bit underdeveloped for me. I wanted to feel more, especially with the romance, but it didn’t quite hit the depth I was hoping for.
Overall, this leans much more fantasy murder mystery with gothic, horror undertones than true romantasy, but if that sounds like your thing, it’s definitely worth picking up. I enjoyed it for the atmosphere and vibes. AUDIOBOOK UPDATE : I just listened to the audiobook and it’s very well done! Loved the accent of the narrator it’s got a single narrator and though it’s not my preferred way to listen (duet is my favorite) she did a great job.
The atmosphere was easily my favorite part it was lush, vivid, and immersive. I could picture everything so clearly, and the magic system felt fresh and original.
That said, the relationships felt a bit underdeveloped for me. I wanted to feel more, especially with the romance, but it didn’t quite hit the depth I was hoping for.
Overall, this leans much more fantasy murder mystery with gothic, horror undertones than true romantasy, but if that sounds like your thing, it’s definitely worth picking up. I enjoyed it for the atmosphere and vibes. AUDIOBOOK UPDATE : I just listened to the audiobook and it’s very well done! Loved the accent of the narrator it’s got a single narrator and though it’s not my preferred way to listen (duet is my favorite) she did a great job.
July 4, 2026
Flew through this standalone dark academia historical romantic fantasy in 2 days.
I'm torn between 4⭐️ and 4.25⭐️, so I'm keeping it at 4⭐️, for now.
🎁 Special edition gifted to me by Allurial
What to expect:
🖤 Romantic fantasy
🖤 3rd person POV
🖤 Historical setting (alternate, magical Victorian London)
🖤 Murder mystery
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
City of Iron and Ivy is marketed as Bridgeton meets Jack the Ripper, and this def gave those vibes. LOVE the murder mystery & floriography woven throughout this story.
In a way, I dislike the comparison to Bridgerton because this story is just a magical, alternate Victorian London—balls, dance cards, courting, women being forced to marry, societal standards, etc. If you didn't like Bridgerton, you should still give this story a chance, especially if you love books and movies like Pride and Prejudice and Becoming Jane. Honestly, I'd recommend lovers of the Belladonna trilogy to this book.
Overall, I had a great time reading this book. Like I noted, I loved the floriography woven throughout this story. It itched a part of my nerdy brain. However, I think there could have been a bit more development of the magic system.
While I had some mixed feelings on both of our main characters, I enjoyed their development overall. Our FMC just makes some really dumb choices, which I always find frustrating as a reader.
The beginning was a lot stronger for me, and I wish the conclusion finished a bit stronger (I felt there were some things that could've been tied up better). That being said, I appreciate that the big conflict at the end wasn't resolved super easily.
NOW, I feel like I've seen this book mismarketed in some spots, and I want to help clear it up. This is NOT a fantasy romance. It is a romantic FANTASY, so an HEA is not required. I actually appreciate the way this book ended, regardless of what other readers may have wanted to happen.
Overall, really enjoyed City of Iron and Ivy and definitely recommend this romantasy standalone.
I'm torn between 4⭐️ and 4.25⭐️, so I'm keeping it at 4⭐️, for now.
🎁 Special edition gifted to me by Allurial
What to expect:
🖤 Romantic fantasy
🖤 3rd person POV
🖤 Historical setting (alternate, magical Victorian London)
🖤 Murder mystery
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
City of Iron and Ivy is marketed as Bridgeton meets Jack the Ripper, and this def gave those vibes. LOVE the murder mystery & floriography woven throughout this story.
In a way, I dislike the comparison to Bridgerton because this story is just a magical, alternate Victorian London—balls, dance cards, courting, women being forced to marry, societal standards, etc. If you didn't like Bridgerton, you should still give this story a chance, especially if you love books and movies like Pride and Prejudice and Becoming Jane. Honestly, I'd recommend lovers of the Belladonna trilogy to this book.
Overall, I had a great time reading this book. Like I noted, I loved the floriography woven throughout this story. It itched a part of my nerdy brain. However, I think there could have been a bit more development of the magic system.
While I had some mixed feelings on both of our main characters, I enjoyed their development overall. Our FMC just makes some really dumb choices, which I always find frustrating as a reader.
The beginning was a lot stronger for me, and I wish the conclusion finished a bit stronger (I felt there were some things that could've been tied up better). That being said, I appreciate that the big conflict at the end wasn't resolved super easily.
NOW, I feel like I've seen this book mismarketed in some spots, and I want to help clear it up. This is NOT a fantasy romance. It is a romantic FANTASY, so an HEA is not required. I actually appreciate the way this book ended, regardless of what other readers may have wanted to happen.
Overall, really enjoyed City of Iron and Ivy and definitely recommend this romantasy standalone.
September 18, 2026
If I could give this book infinity stars, I would. This gave Bridgerton meets Penny dreadful vibes with Flora and botany magic all twisted up in a hauntingly beautiful Gothic tale.
We follow the story of a scarred sister Elswyth Elderwood trying to unravel the mystery of her sister Persephones disappearance.
Society has presumed her dead and Elswyth refuses to accept this.
While she wants to hunt for answers, her father has now declared she must find a husband in order to secure her family’s name and stability. Elswyth had dreamed she would get an education at Oxford but since her sister is gone she has no choice but to let that dream go and navigate society for an eligible bachelor.
She is invited to stay with the same uncle persephone was residing with while she learns the etiquette required to enter society. After making her debut she is still determined to find answers and she believes the killer on the loose that’s gossiped as the “Reaper” may be involved. But people she thought were her allies quickly make her an outcast, making it difficult for her to find the truth behind her sister. She also has to deal with the bothersome dark and brooding Silas Blackthorn, bastard to societies eyes and yet she can’t help but to find him equal parts alluring and infuriating
I absolutely adored the magic in here with floramancers. This is one of the most fascinating historical gothic fantasies I have read. It was both beautiful and hauntingly creepy. I adored our scarred and determined FMC and the murder mystery she’s unraveling. There were so many secrets and betrayals and I must admit some tears were shed with bittersweet strings tied up at the end. I had an amazing time reading this one and I highly recommend
We follow the story of a scarred sister Elswyth Elderwood trying to unravel the mystery of her sister Persephones disappearance.
Society has presumed her dead and Elswyth refuses to accept this.
While she wants to hunt for answers, her father has now declared she must find a husband in order to secure her family’s name and stability. Elswyth had dreamed she would get an education at Oxford but since her sister is gone she has no choice but to let that dream go and navigate society for an eligible bachelor.
She is invited to stay with the same uncle persephone was residing with while she learns the etiquette required to enter society. After making her debut she is still determined to find answers and she believes the killer on the loose that’s gossiped as the “Reaper” may be involved. But people she thought were her allies quickly make her an outcast, making it difficult for her to find the truth behind her sister. She also has to deal with the bothersome dark and brooding Silas Blackthorn, bastard to societies eyes and yet she can’t help but to find him equal parts alluring and infuriating
I absolutely adored the magic in here with floramancers. This is one of the most fascinating historical gothic fantasies I have read. It was both beautiful and hauntingly creepy. I adored our scarred and determined FMC and the murder mystery she’s unraveling. There were so many secrets and betrayals and I must admit some tears were shed with bittersweet strings tied up at the end. I had an amazing time reading this one and I highly recommend
July 24, 2026
City of Iron and Ivy is an exceptional debut.
In City of Iron and Ivy Elswyth Elderwood is a scarred scholar who must debut in a City amongst the wealthy elite in search of both a husband and her dead sister's killer. Set in an alternative London where there's floral magic, Elswyth makes enemies and friends in her pursuit of justice.
I loved the characters. There's a motley crew of interesting and diverse characters here who have tremendous depth and dimension. I especially loved Mrs. Rose and Kehinde. There's a wonderful found family here amongst the gritty dark backdrop that really makes the story feel meaningful.
The ending is a chef's kiss. I absolutely loved how it ended. Everything is explained and wraps up in a cohesive and concise way that leaves you feeling fulfilled.
Make no mistake, this is not a romance, it you are looking for that you will be disappointed. That being said, this is romance-adjacent and will please people looking for a novel with a strong female lead. This was a great novel and worth picking up if you have any interest in fantasy.
In City of Iron and Ivy Elswyth Elderwood is a scarred scholar who must debut in a City amongst the wealthy elite in search of both a husband and her dead sister's killer. Set in an alternative London where there's floral magic, Elswyth makes enemies and friends in her pursuit of justice.
I loved the characters. There's a motley crew of interesting and diverse characters here who have tremendous depth and dimension. I especially loved Mrs. Rose and Kehinde. There's a wonderful found family here amongst the gritty dark backdrop that really makes the story feel meaningful.
The ending is a chef's kiss. I absolutely loved how it ended. Everything is explained and wraps up in a cohesive and concise way that leaves you feeling fulfilled.
Make no mistake, this is not a romance, it you are looking for that you will be disappointed. That being said, this is romance-adjacent and will please people looking for a novel with a strong female lead. This was a great novel and worth picking up if you have any interest in fantasy.
December 9, 2025
This fantasy was unlike anything I have ever read. The floromancy magic was incredibly unique and well developed, with a touch of horror added in to give it that little extra push in the genre (Frankenstein-ish?). While the magic was complex, the descriptions were vivid, and the pictures painted so clearly in the reader's mind. I found it interesting to read a very strongly female perspective driven novel, from a male author. I don't read many male authors in this space, and I found it a combination of excellent female representation with strong underlying gore elements disguised in botany. Truly unique.
The relationships were a little underdeveloped, which I find can occur in male writing, but other aspects of the storytelling were strong. I would have liked to care more about the developing relationships, but there wasn't enough written and conveyed for me to have feelings. I may get some blowback for stating it, but it shouldn't have surprised me that a male author wrote a "romantic fantasy" that didn't have a HEA. This is a known issue in advertising to audiences, and I received this title from NetGalley under their romance genre. It does not fit this bill, and has very little to recommend it a such. It would have been far better off to market it as it was, so as to not mislead expectations.
As with many fantasies, the underpinnings of social commentary are strong, with clear anti-colonialism subtext that is worth paying attention to.
I'm appreciative of my opportunity to read this advanced copy from NetGalley, and all opinions are independently my own.
The relationships were a little underdeveloped, which I find can occur in male writing, but other aspects of the storytelling were strong. I would have liked to care more about the developing relationships, but there wasn't enough written and conveyed for me to have feelings. I may get some blowback for stating it, but it shouldn't have surprised me that a male author wrote a "romantic fantasy" that didn't have a HEA. This is a known issue in advertising to audiences, and I received this title from NetGalley under their romance genre. It does not fit this bill, and has very little to recommend it a such. It would have been far better off to market it as it was, so as to not mislead expectations.
As with many fantasies, the underpinnings of social commentary are strong, with clear anti-colonialism subtext that is worth paying attention to.
I'm appreciative of my opportunity to read this advanced copy from NetGalley, and all opinions are independently my own.
June 21, 2026
WOOOOOWWWWW.
How is nobody screaming about this book?!
I was OBSESSED.
Not hooked. Not invested. OBSESSED.
The kind of obsessed where every spare moment is spent reading. The kind where you’re annoyed when life interrupts because all you want is to get back to the book.
Think Bridgerton meets Sherlock Holmes, with botanical magic, murder, family secrets, a serial killer, romance, and one of the most original fantasy worlds I’ve read in a long time.
And the FLOROMANCY 🌿🙉
I absolutely loved the botanical magic element. Hedge witches growing poisonous plants from their fingertips? Dresses woven from flowers?
At its heart, it’s a story about a woman trying to uncover who murdered her sister, while navigating a society she never wanted to be part of.
The mystery. The investigation. The tension. The secrets. Silas. ELSWYTH.
Everything.
And then it ended and I was personally offended because I wanted another 500 pages. But is there going to be a sequel???????
READ IT.
Immediately.
How is nobody screaming about this book?!
I was OBSESSED.
Not hooked. Not invested. OBSESSED.
The kind of obsessed where every spare moment is spent reading. The kind where you’re annoyed when life interrupts because all you want is to get back to the book.
Think Bridgerton meets Sherlock Holmes, with botanical magic, murder, family secrets, a serial killer, romance, and one of the most original fantasy worlds I’ve read in a long time.
And the FLOROMANCY 🌿🙉
I absolutely loved the botanical magic element. Hedge witches growing poisonous plants from their fingertips? Dresses woven from flowers?
At its heart, it’s a story about a woman trying to uncover who murdered her sister, while navigating a society she never wanted to be part of.
The mystery. The investigation. The tension. The secrets. Silas. ELSWYTH.
Everything.
And then it ended and I was personally offended because I wanted another 500 pages. But is there going to be a sequel???????
READ IT.
Immediately.
May 4, 2026
Such a unique, fresh, enjoyable read! Bridgerton meets Jack the Ripper in this incredible story that takes you back in time in London with balls, courting, women just starting to explore studies, and a floral magic system that brings a unique blast of fresh air to the fantastic genre. I was on the edge of my seat worrying for the safety of our FMC, trying to figure out the mystery of her missing sister and murders of all the women found in London.
The narrator did a fantastic job with her voices and bringing us on this mystery. It was thoroughly enjoyable and I highly recommend everyone add this to their TBR asap!
The narrator did a fantastic job with her voices and bringing us on this mystery. It was thoroughly enjoyable and I highly recommend everyone add this to their TBR asap!
November 24, 2025
This copy was made available to me for free through NetGalley. I want to thank them for the opportunity to read and review this.
And what a TREASURE this story is. I can’t believe I had the privilege to read this for free.
Here is the description, pulled from the publisher’s website:
City of Iron and Ivy
By Thomas Kent West
In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among roses: a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the opposite: a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Suddenly the last scion of her house, Elswyth must abandon her studies and find a wealthy husband. She is thrust into a London fueled by floromancy: hedge witches sprout nightshade from their fingertips, high-born ladies weave gowns from wildflowers… and a serial killer called the Reaper transforms his victims into plant-human hybrids.
When clues suggest the Reaper is a powerful nobleman, Elswyth’s search for her sister’s killer and her hunt for a husband become one and the same. But she is drawn to bastard-born archaeologist Silas Blackthorn—who may have dark, twisted secrets of his own.
Elswyth must determine friend from foe and lover from liar—or suffer the same fate as her sister.
:OFFICIAL REVIEW:
5 Stars Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a fantasy reader through and through. It’s what I reach for almost always for leisure. I love the escapism, the world building, and well developed characters born from stories of magic and folklore.
City of Iron and Ivy absolutely checked every single box for me as far as fantasy goes. I wish I could compare it to something I’ve read before, but to my surprise, it truly is in a category of its own.
I want to talk about the writing and prose, first and foremost, because it is what drew me in almost immediately. It reads beautifully. I was completely immersed in the language, feeling as if I were in Victorian era London myself. It’s concise. Emotional. Descriptive without being too flowery. Perfection. No notes.
This leads me into world building. Again, I was immersed. The setting was gritty, noir, and bright at all the right moments. I could visualize, smell, and imagine everything as if it were unfolding before me. The magic system, without info dumping and exposition, was understood easily. And now I’m wishing for the ability to conjure flowers from my skin and scatter them everywhere. (New daydream unlocked.)
And the characters. Oh, my heart. So well developed. I cared, deeply, for some of them by the end of it all. And for the ones I was meant to despise…let me tell you. Blood boiling.
Slow burn romance. Yes, please. That’s all I will say.
There is a wonderful balance here of mystery, intrigue, and twists. Great pacing. Wonderful buildup to the climax.
I really could gush about this. And I intend to. (To anyone who will listen.)
All in all, City of Iron and Ivy was the “diamond of the season” for me. I believe it will be for anyone as well.
And what a TREASURE this story is. I can’t believe I had the privilege to read this for free.
Here is the description, pulled from the publisher’s website:
City of Iron and Ivy
By Thomas Kent West
In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among roses: a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the opposite: a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Suddenly the last scion of her house, Elswyth must abandon her studies and find a wealthy husband. She is thrust into a London fueled by floromancy: hedge witches sprout nightshade from their fingertips, high-born ladies weave gowns from wildflowers… and a serial killer called the Reaper transforms his victims into plant-human hybrids.
When clues suggest the Reaper is a powerful nobleman, Elswyth’s search for her sister’s killer and her hunt for a husband become one and the same. But she is drawn to bastard-born archaeologist Silas Blackthorn—who may have dark, twisted secrets of his own.
Elswyth must determine friend from foe and lover from liar—or suffer the same fate as her sister.
:OFFICIAL REVIEW:
5 Stars Overall
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m a fantasy reader through and through. It’s what I reach for almost always for leisure. I love the escapism, the world building, and well developed characters born from stories of magic and folklore.
City of Iron and Ivy absolutely checked every single box for me as far as fantasy goes. I wish I could compare it to something I’ve read before, but to my surprise, it truly is in a category of its own.
I want to talk about the writing and prose, first and foremost, because it is what drew me in almost immediately. It reads beautifully. I was completely immersed in the language, feeling as if I were in Victorian era London myself. It’s concise. Emotional. Descriptive without being too flowery. Perfection. No notes.
This leads me into world building. Again, I was immersed. The setting was gritty, noir, and bright at all the right moments. I could visualize, smell, and imagine everything as if it were unfolding before me. The magic system, without info dumping and exposition, was understood easily. And now I’m wishing for the ability to conjure flowers from my skin and scatter them everywhere. (New daydream unlocked.)
And the characters. Oh, my heart. So well developed. I cared, deeply, for some of them by the end of it all. And for the ones I was meant to despise…let me tell you. Blood boiling.
Slow burn romance. Yes, please. That’s all I will say.
There is a wonderful balance here of mystery, intrigue, and twists. Great pacing. Wonderful buildup to the climax.
I really could gush about this. And I intend to. (To anyone who will listen.)
All in all, City of Iron and Ivy was the “diamond of the season” for me. I believe it will be for anyone as well.
July 28, 2026
EN version below.
Я — людина, яка не читає анотації.
О, і яке ж здивування це було. Ця книга хоч і має романтичну лінію, але вона НЕ є романом.
У мене двоякі відчуття. Історія видалася трохи занадто довгою. Настільки детальні описи всього навкруги, що я починала думати не про центральний сюжет, а про те, який би абзац мені пропустити, щоб і не читати зайвих описів, і не втратити якусь деталь, яка б допомогла колупатися в детективних загадках.
Несподіванкою для мене стало те, що я підозрювала КОЖНІСІНЬКОГО героя, згаданого в тексті. І було цікаво ловити себе на оцих гойдалках від “Це точно він” до “Та ні, він хороший”. На моменті пропозиції руки і серця я вже на 80% була впевнена, що з доктором щось не так. Мій внутрішній Шерлок казав: “Оце він, він! Він дивний”. Але буквально в наступній сцені я мусила знову сумніватися у своїх висновках.
Так, ця книга не роман, але романтичну лінію автор нам усе ж запропонував. І, хочу сказати, мені ця лінія сподобалась. Вона була напруженою, інтригуючою. Це той момент, коли не було награності “вороги — коханці”. Це той момент, коли ти чітко розумієш, ЧОМУ вони стали змінювати своє ставлення один до одного. А не просто тому, що чоловічий герой показав свою гостру щелепу, кубики преса і принаду, яку не можна обхопити руками. Я відчувала хімію між ними.
Права жінок. Вкотре я вдячна всесвіту, що народилася в часи, коли жінка — це не просто прикраса і трофей. Яке ж несправедливе суспільство колись було. Це страшно.
Я була в захваті від останніх 30% книги. Не могла відірватися. Мені сподобалося, як автор завершив цю історію.
Але, будь ласка, Томас. Подаруй нам спін-оф. Там такий шалений потенціал.
Кілька цікавих цитат:
Я — людина, яка не читає анотації.
О, і яке ж здивування це було. Ця книга хоч і має романтичну лінію, але вона НЕ є романом.
У мене двоякі відчуття. Історія видалася трохи занадто довгою. Настільки детальні описи всього навкруги, що я починала думати не про центральний сюжет, а про те, який би абзац мені пропустити, щоб і не читати зайвих описів, і не втратити якусь деталь, яка б допомогла колупатися в детективних загадках.
Несподіванкою для мене стало те, що я підозрювала КОЖНІСІНЬКОГО героя, згаданого в тексті. І було цікаво ловити себе на оцих гойдалках від “Це точно він” до “Та ні, він хороший”. На моменті пропозиції руки і серця я вже на 80% була впевнена, що з доктором щось не так. Мій внутрішній Шерлок казав: “Оце він, він! Він дивний”. Але буквально в наступній сцені я мусила знову сумніватися у своїх висновках.
Так, ця книга не роман, але романтичну лінію автор нам усе ж запропонував. І, хочу сказати, мені ця лінія сподобалась. Вона була напруженою, інтригуючою. Це той момент, коли не було награності “вороги — коханці”. Це той момент, коли ти чітко розумієш, ЧОМУ вони стали змінювати своє ставлення один до одного. А не просто тому, що чоловічий герой показав свою гостру щелепу, кубики преса і принаду, яку не можна обхопити руками. Я відчувала хімію між ними.
Права жінок. Вкотре я вдячна всесвіту, що народилася в часи, коли жінка — це не просто прикраса і трофей. Яке ж несправедливе суспільство колись було. Це страшно.
Я була в захваті від останніх 30% книги. Не могла відірватися. Мені сподобалося, як автор завершив цю історію.
Але, будь ласка, Томас. Подаруй нам спін-оф. Там такий шалений потенціал.
Кілька цікавих цитат:
“На мить вона уявила на місці цієї жінки Персефону: ребра її сестри розламані, а з її закривавленого лона ростуть квіти.” (У мене немає слів, як описати цю цитату. Коли сам жах поріс квітами. Це настільки бридко і прекрасно.)
Сцена, де Елсвіт вчилась їсти верхи:
“— Моя люба, ти ж не хочеш, аби джентльмени подумали, ніби ти розсуваєш ноги занадто часто, — мовила місіс Роуз.
— Чому? Вони можуть приревнувати до коня?”
“Медицина, на жаль, ще не в силах запобігти долі.”
“— Я не думаю, що забуте правило використання виделки приведе мене до життя на панелі. Але я ціную вашу турботу.”
“Єдине, що людей цікавить, — це те, як добре я вмію танцювати, наскільки красиве моє обличчя і скільки ще прекрасних доньок я зможу народити, якщо вони зволять зліпити мене з собою в шлюбі!”
“Завжди знайдуться люди, які ненавидітимуть тебе незалежно від твоїх учинків. Не роби за них їхню роботу, ненавидячи саму себе.”
“Шкода, що світ влаштований так, що вам потрібен дозвіл, аби бути геніальною.”
“…бути вигнанцем — пусте діло, якщо тебе виганяють із правильними людьми.”
Ооох, як багато тексту вийшло. Вибачте. На цьому все.
4/5
-----------------
EN
I'm the kind of person who never reads book blurbs.
So imagine my surprise. Even though this book has a romance subplot, it is NOT a romance novel.
I have mixed feelings. The story felt a little too long. The descriptions of everything around the characters were so detailed that I found myself thinking less about the central plot and more about which paragraph I could skip without missing a clue that might help me solve the mystery.
One thing that genuinely surprised me was that I suspected EVERY SINGLE character mentioned in the book. It was fun catching myself swinging back and forth between, “It's definitely them,” and, “No... they're a good person.” By the time the marriage proposal happened, I was already about 80% convinced there was something wrong with the doctor. My inner Sherlock kept yelling, “It's him! He's suspicious!” And then, in the very next scene, I found myself doubting my own conclusions all over again.
Yes, this isn't a romance novel, but the author still gave us a romantic storyline. And I have to say—I really liked it. It was tense and intriguing. This is one of those rare cases where the “enemies to lovers” trope didn't feel forced. You could clearly understand WHY their feelings toward each other started to change. Not simply because the male lead revealed his sharp jawline, six-pack abs, and an impressive package you couldn't wrap your hands around. I genuinely felt the chemistry between them.
Women's rights... Once again, I'm grateful to the universe that I was born in an era where women are more than decorations or trophies. Society used to be so incredibly unfair. It's honestly frightening.
I absolutely loved the last 30% of the book. I couldn't put it down. I really liked the way the author wrapped up the story.
But please, Thomas. Give us a spin-off. The potential is absolutely insane.
A few memorable quotes:
“For a moment she imagined Persephone in that woman's place: her sister's ribs shattered, flowers growing from her bloodied womb.” (I don't even have the words to describe this quote. Horror itself blooming into flowers. It's both grotesque and beautiful.)
The scene where Elswyth was learning to ride side-saddle:
“— My dear, you wouldn't want gentlemen to think you spread your legs too often,” Mrs. Rose said.
“— Why? Might they get jealous of the horse?”
“Unfortunately, medicine still cannot prevent fate.”
“— I don't think forgetting which fork to use is going to lead me to a life on the streets. But I appreciate your concern.”
“The only things people care about are how well I dance, how pretty my face is, and how many beautiful daughters I can bear if they decide to marry me.”
“There will always be people who hate you regardless of what you do. Don't do their job for them by hating yourself.”
“It's a shame the world is built in such a way that you need permission to be brilliant.”
“...being an outcast means very little when you're cast out alongside the right people.”
Whew... that turned into a lot of text. Sorry about that. That's all.
4/5
April 12, 2026
City of Iron and Ivy by Thomas Kent West
Book Blurb: In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among roses: a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the opposite: a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Rating: *****
Feels: Gritty, Enchanted, Tense, Pleased.
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fiction, Historical Fantasy, Historical, Historical Romance
First published April 21, 2026 : 576 pages
I loved the slow unveiling of each gritty character in this very non formulaic read. The slow dark unfurling of the story of a sister attempting to discover what happened in the season before her debut upon society was stunning. Elswyth Elderwood is different, blunt and utterly charming to watch as she engages with the turbulent society of this alternate london scene. I was kept guessing through out the read as to the true intentions and plots within plots going on and was truly entertained throughout this read. I giggled, I cheered and I most definitely cried. This is a read that kept me entertained, thoughtful and feeling throughout. I also become deeply invested in the characters and can say I loved this story and how it all played out. One of my favorite reads of the year.
This book has:
Regency Vibes
Plant Magic
Murder Mystery
Political Intrigue
Found Family
Book Blurb: In an alternate London alive with botanical magic, Elswyth Elderwood is a thorn among roses: a bristly, scarred scholar in a world of socialites. Her sister Persephone is the opposite: a graceful debutante seeking a marriage that will save their family from ruin. At least, until Persephone is murdered.
Rating: *****
Feels: Gritty, Enchanted, Tense, Pleased.
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Romance, Fiction, Historical Fantasy, Historical, Historical Romance
First published April 21, 2026 : 576 pages
I loved the slow unveiling of each gritty character in this very non formulaic read. The slow dark unfurling of the story of a sister attempting to discover what happened in the season before her debut upon society was stunning. Elswyth Elderwood is different, blunt and utterly charming to watch as she engages with the turbulent society of this alternate london scene. I was kept guessing through out the read as to the true intentions and plots within plots going on and was truly entertained throughout this read. I giggled, I cheered and I most definitely cried. This is a read that kept me entertained, thoughtful and feeling throughout. I also become deeply invested in the characters and can say I loved this story and how it all played out. One of my favorite reads of the year.
This book has:
Regency Vibes
Plant Magic
Murder Mystery
Political Intrigue
Found Family
April 19, 2026
4-4.5⭐️
This book is truly stunning!!
The amount of details in the books really made me feel like I was actually inside this story!! It’s SO original, refreshing and really keeps you guessing.
You have a such a fabulous blend of bridgerton vibes, magic and murder mystery, the thriller and fantasy lover in me was LOVING every second of this. ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Even though there are touches of romance, this isn’t a fantasy romance. This is the story of Elswyth in her pursuit of finding the mystery of her sisters death, especially with a serial killer on the loose while also trying to find a husband. Elswyth is an extremely smart FMC and is nothing like the women of her time but she gives it her best go and that makes the story even better with her banter. There were moments that really tug on your heart that had me feeling everything Elswyth felt 🥹 Not to mention the found family 😭😭 love them all!
I highly recommend this book! From the world building, the plot, history and mystery this book has it all! 🌿
This book is truly stunning!!
The amount of details in the books really made me feel like I was actually inside this story!! It’s SO original, refreshing and really keeps you guessing.
You have a such a fabulous blend of bridgerton vibes, magic and murder mystery, the thriller and fantasy lover in me was LOVING every second of this. ❤️🔥❤️🔥
Even though there are touches of romance, this isn’t a fantasy romance. This is the story of Elswyth in her pursuit of finding the mystery of her sisters death, especially with a serial killer on the loose while also trying to find a husband. Elswyth is an extremely smart FMC and is nothing like the women of her time but she gives it her best go and that makes the story even better with her banter. There were moments that really tug on your heart that had me feeling everything Elswyth felt 🥹 Not to mention the found family 😭😭 love them all!
I highly recommend this book! From the world building, the plot, history and mystery this book has it all! 🌿
April 18, 2026
Review of ARC Audio from Netgalley
I mean this in the NICEST way possible Thomas Kent West, but respectfully what the heck did I just read?! A 5 star story filled with magic, murder, mystery, some good lovin, and did I mention the magic?
You introduced the most unique and honestly most rad magic system I have read in quite a while. Vines out of wrists? Poison wood darts from fingertips? The ability to change formal wear with florals? Sign me up now!
Then we get the thrill and suspense of the most intriguing and surprising murder mystery. I am a self proclaimed “mystery sluth” with an insane ability to figure out plots before they occur. At no point during this story, could I guess what was going to happen next. Then when the big reveals occurred, there was a *face palm* moment of realizing all the clues left before.
The romance was romancing, the banter was quick and witty (sorry husband for cackling out loud a few times), the found family was perfection. Where can I get myself a Mrs Rose and Uncle Percival?
Now for the audio production. I officially am asking Chloe Campbell to narrate my life. Each character had different pitch, volume, rate and especially emotion. At times I thought it was a dual narration.
I laughed, I teared up, I was surprised, I could not stop listening. This is a long review for a long book that will keep you interested the entire time.
I mean this in the NICEST way possible Thomas Kent West, but respectfully what the heck did I just read?! A 5 star story filled with magic, murder, mystery, some good lovin, and did I mention the magic?
You introduced the most unique and honestly most rad magic system I have read in quite a while. Vines out of wrists? Poison wood darts from fingertips? The ability to change formal wear with florals? Sign me up now!
Then we get the thrill and suspense of the most intriguing and surprising murder mystery. I am a self proclaimed “mystery sluth” with an insane ability to figure out plots before they occur. At no point during this story, could I guess what was going to happen next. Then when the big reveals occurred, there was a *face palm* moment of realizing all the clues left before.
The romance was romancing, the banter was quick and witty (sorry husband for cackling out loud a few times), the found family was perfection. Where can I get myself a Mrs Rose and Uncle Percival?
Now for the audio production. I officially am asking Chloe Campbell to narrate my life. Each character had different pitch, volume, rate and especially emotion. At times I thought it was a dual narration.
I laughed, I teared up, I was surprised, I could not stop listening. This is a long review for a long book that will keep you interested the entire time.
October 6, 2026
I was very invested for the first half of the book. But the didn't enjoy the 2nd half much. Elswyth made many questionable choices that seemed to didn't go with her personality that we get to see from the start.
I heard many good things about this book but it didn't live upto the expectations
I heard many good things about this book but it didn't live upto the expectations
April 4, 2026
This is a story that sticks with you!
City of Iron and Ivy completely exceeded my expectations. It was Bridgerton meets murder mystery in an alternate London setting, and I absolutely ate it up.
Aside from the lavish parties and social gossip, there’s a murder mystery that Elswyth is determined to solve. I had some theories brewing and each and every one of them was wrong. I was pleasantly shocked more than once with twists I never saw coming.
One of my favorite elements was the use of floromancy (floral magic). I appreciated how deeply we explored the magic system and all the chapter headers with bits of floral knowledge!
Elswyth is easily a new favorite fmc! She’s sharp and intelligent. She longs for more than what marriage alone can offer, but she still makes sacrifices for her family.
I also fell in love with so many of the side characters! Lots of tears were shed. Any book that moves me this much emotionally is one I won’t forget.
I can’t wait to see what this author does next. What an incredible story!
City of Iron and Ivy completely exceeded my expectations. It was Bridgerton meets murder mystery in an alternate London setting, and I absolutely ate it up.
Aside from the lavish parties and social gossip, there’s a murder mystery that Elswyth is determined to solve. I had some theories brewing and each and every one of them was wrong. I was pleasantly shocked more than once with twists I never saw coming.
One of my favorite elements was the use of floromancy (floral magic). I appreciated how deeply we explored the magic system and all the chapter headers with bits of floral knowledge!
Elswyth is easily a new favorite fmc! She’s sharp and intelligent. She longs for more than what marriage alone can offer, but she still makes sacrifices for her family.
I also fell in love with so many of the side characters! Lots of tears were shed. Any book that moves me this much emotionally is one I won’t forget.
I can’t wait to see what this author does next. What an incredible story!
June 1, 2026
Ehhhh. I do not really know what I want to rate this. It's a more of a 2.75 that I am rounding up. It started out strong, but I got kind of lost and I really did not buy the romance at all. She is in love?? After only a handful of actual interactions in person over the span of months??
Also, the one spicy scene was SO CRINGE and I've gotta say, I just cannot with men written sex scenes.
This took me forever to finish, but I didn't DNF so there's that I guess.
Also, the one spicy scene was SO CRINGE and I've gotta say, I just cannot with men written sex scenes.
This took me forever to finish, but I didn't DNF so there's that I guess.
May 24, 2026
2.5 stars, the book had a couple of interesting ideas but it tried to do too many things at once so none of them came out particularly good. A pity.
Pros:
- the magic system is creative and really fun to read
- the supporting cast is great, they were my favorite part of the book, very well made and very human even with their limited time on the page
- the mystery is interesting and the investigation compelling enough to keep me from dnf-ing once the boring shit hit the fan
Cons:
- Everything else. Not because is all bad but because it's too much all at once. The season plot, the mystery plot, the scholar plot, the romance plot... All half-assed and for the most part a big waste of time.
And there were like.. 600 pages of time to waste on shit that barely goes anywhere (best case scenario, because some are fully nonsensical and/or completely useless)
Was checking off the "dark academia" and "romantasy" boxes for marketing REALLY that important?
A personal gripe: I hated the main character.
Not personally, the concept of her. The very shallow, self-inserty, stupid concept of a generic book heroine that she is. She's so poorly sketched that she's not even flat, she’s nonexistent.
I opened this book not knowing her and after 600 pages of inconsistent reactions and her speaking like she's YN isekai-ed into a victorian fantasy, I closed it with more or less the same knowledge.
She's a scholar that doesn't study because she's such a prodigy she doesn't even need to, all her scientific discoveries are done off screen, she’s so good she manages to invent an engine and build it in her room (using idk curtains and her chamber pot ig) but then can't recognize poison ivy? well, the book needed her to forget about her whole shtick for a dramatic scene!
She's not a character she's an instrument, she doesn't have a personality she has roles to fulfill scene by scene and lines to repeat like she gets paid and i HATED it
Pros:
- the magic system is creative and really fun to read
- the supporting cast is great, they were my favorite part of the book, very well made and very human even with their limited time on the page
- the mystery is interesting and the investigation compelling enough to keep me from dnf-ing once the boring shit hit the fan
Cons:
- Everything else. Not because is all bad but because it's too much all at once. The season plot, the mystery plot, the scholar plot, the romance plot... All half-assed and for the most part a big waste of time.
And there were like.. 600 pages of time to waste on shit that barely goes anywhere (best case scenario, because some are fully nonsensical and/or completely useless)
Was checking off the "dark academia" and "romantasy" boxes for marketing REALLY that important?
A personal gripe: I hated the main character.
Not personally, the concept of her. The very shallow, self-inserty, stupid concept of a generic book heroine that she is. She's so poorly sketched that she's not even flat, she’s nonexistent.
I opened this book not knowing her and after 600 pages of inconsistent reactions and her speaking like she's YN isekai-ed into a victorian fantasy, I closed it with more or less the same knowledge.
She's a scholar that doesn't study because she's such a prodigy she doesn't even need to, all her scientific discoveries are done off screen, she’s so good she manages to invent an engine and build it in her room (using idk curtains and her chamber pot ig) but then can't recognize poison ivy? well, the book needed her to forget about her whole shtick for a dramatic scene!
She's not a character she's an instrument, she doesn't have a personality she has roles to fulfill scene by scene and lines to repeat like she gets paid and i HATED it
April 20, 2026
5⭐️
Murder mystery x Bridgerton x botanical magic
These labels almost do it a disservice since I felt it was so much more.
The author touches on so many themes with powerful one-liners such as power, corruption, the responsibility to take action, violence, beauty, acceptance, oppression, devotion and so many others.
Persephone, the diamond of the season, is murdered. Elswyth, her scholarly sister, must forgo her hopes of attending Oxford and travel to London to participate in the marriage season to secure her family’s status. All while investigating her sister’s death.
I LOVED the magic system and the intricacies described. This was not whimsical — this dives into the beauty and deadly power of nature and the life source that runs through all of us. I was absolutely captivated in the botany science and even the fictional components were so expertly woven in with true facts.
Do not be fooled —This is a murder set in historical London. This is not a romantasy — but rather a fantasy with romance sub plot.
The plot twists got me. The ending got me. (I NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE) And tears were shed.
The single narration by Chloe Campbell was impeccable. I did not even realize I was listening to one narrator the whole time. Her voices brought the story to life.
I am so honored to have received an ALC copy and a huge thank you to Thomas Kent West, Hachette audio, Forever publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen and review.
Murder mystery x Bridgerton x botanical magic
These labels almost do it a disservice since I felt it was so much more.
The author touches on so many themes with powerful one-liners such as power, corruption, the responsibility to take action, violence, beauty, acceptance, oppression, devotion and so many others.
Persephone, the diamond of the season, is murdered. Elswyth, her scholarly sister, must forgo her hopes of attending Oxford and travel to London to participate in the marriage season to secure her family’s status. All while investigating her sister’s death.
I LOVED the magic system and the intricacies described. This was not whimsical — this dives into the beauty and deadly power of nature and the life source that runs through all of us. I was absolutely captivated in the botany science and even the fictional components were so expertly woven in with true facts.
Do not be fooled —This is a murder set in historical London. This is not a romantasy — but rather a fantasy with romance sub plot.
The plot twists got me. The ending got me. (I NEED TO TALK TO SOMEONE) And tears were shed.
The single narration by Chloe Campbell was impeccable. I did not even realize I was listening to one narrator the whole time. Her voices brought the story to life.
I am so honored to have received an ALC copy and a huge thank you to Thomas Kent West, Hachette audio, Forever publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen and review.
June 25, 2026
This was a buddy read for me. My book bestie Karolina wanted to read it and it didn't disappoint. Please give me more books with floramancy!! Flower/plant magic! I loved it!!! Also will there be a sequel because I need to know what happened to some characters!!
September 4, 2026
⭐⭐.5 stars | 2.5 stars rounded down
I'm irritated
I'm irritated
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