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Even in the Ashes
An isolated and struggling realm ruled by fear has crowned a new queen who vows to destroy it.
Illyanna Davenport is the Queen of Kadona, and her only desire is to see her kingdom burn to ash after its archaic and ignorant laws demanded her mother’s public execution. Her intent for bloodshed is promised moments after she takes the throne, leaving her citizens reeling and her advisors conspiring against her.
That night, Illyanna discovers a siphoned body in her bedchamber, framing her for a murder that is punishable by death. Sentenced to be executed at first light, Illyanna has no option but to flee her realm and seek refuge in a distant kingdom ruled by her uncle Gideon.
Despite her derailed plans and finding herself in a foreign kingdom, Illyanna remains adamant that she will be Kadona’s undoing. Relying on aid from a prisoner and a Savki ship captain, Illyanna sails toward her estranged family, hoping to reignite an old grudge.
On her journey, she realizes how sheltered her realm has become, which only fuels the rage burning through her. She vows to return home and cleanse their corroded souls by fire.
Illyanna Davenport is the Queen of Kadona, and her only desire is to see her kingdom burn to ash after its archaic and ignorant laws demanded her mother’s public execution. Her intent for bloodshed is promised moments after she takes the throne, leaving her citizens reeling and her advisors conspiring against her.
That night, Illyanna discovers a siphoned body in her bedchamber, framing her for a murder that is punishable by death. Sentenced to be executed at first light, Illyanna has no option but to flee her realm and seek refuge in a distant kingdom ruled by her uncle Gideon.
Despite her derailed plans and finding herself in a foreign kingdom, Illyanna remains adamant that she will be Kadona’s undoing. Relying on aid from a prisoner and a Savki ship captain, Illyanna sails toward her estranged family, hoping to reignite an old grudge.
On her journey, she realizes how sheltered her realm has become, which only fuels the rage burning through her. She vows to return home and cleanse their corroded souls by fire.
305 pages, Paperback
First published December 9, 2025
5 people are currently reading
42 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 23, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!!
Wow first of all I absolutely adored the fact that there were two FMCs which is so rare to find in a fantasy book. I loved the magic system and how fast paced the story was!
The romance in this book was definitely top tier and the yearning was just absolutely chefs kiss!! The character development throughout the book was also amazing and enjoyable. I’d love to see how that continues in the second book.
The ending had me so excited for the second book because omg what a cliffhanger!
Thank you again for this opportunity and I would definitely recommend checking this one out!!
Wow first of all I absolutely adored the fact that there were two FMCs which is so rare to find in a fantasy book. I loved the magic system and how fast paced the story was!
The romance in this book was definitely top tier and the yearning was just absolutely chefs kiss!! The character development throughout the book was also amazing and enjoyable. I’d love to see how that continues in the second book.
The ending had me so excited for the second book because omg what a cliffhanger!
Thank you again for this opportunity and I would definitely recommend checking this one out!!
August 20, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 STARS.
Forbidden love? ✅
Raging vengeful queen? ✅
Siphon whose touch could mean death? ✅
Adventure? ✅
This book was so adventurous!!! A world you can escape to full of magic, adventure, and desire! I LOVED this. Definitely loved our Queen FMC too. She is so resilient! She’s a badass. Full of rage and I’m here for it.
The plot was so good and not drowned by the romance.
YET the romance GIRL OMG the tension. 🔥🥰
THE ENDING???? BOOK 2 I NEED IT. I NEED TO KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING.
“You will be my end, beloved; I will not accept another fate.”
Forbidden love? ✅
Raging vengeful queen? ✅
Siphon whose touch could mean death? ✅
Adventure? ✅
This book was so adventurous!!! A world you can escape to full of magic, adventure, and desire! I LOVED this. Definitely loved our Queen FMC too. She is so resilient! She’s a badass. Full of rage and I’m here for it.
The plot was so good and not drowned by the romance.
YET the romance GIRL OMG the tension. 🔥🥰
THE ENDING???? BOOK 2 I NEED IT. I NEED TO KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING.
“You will be my end, beloved; I will not accept another fate.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2025
ARC Disclosure: This book was received free of charge from T.M. Lewis in exchange for an honest review.
2.5 ⭐ rounded to 3 here
Even in the Ashes has an interesting plot and a unique magic system that is shrouded in a bit of misdirection to both our main character Illyanna and the reader as the story opens up. The book is a bit of a slow start that extends what you get in the blurb a bit. The book picks up a little bit after the initial introduction of things, but overall I felt a lot of the situations through the first half just felt rushed, when scenes felt like they were about to get deeper it felt like I was pulled away by a chapter stop even though the next chapter would continue the scene, that brief pause to start a new chapter made the story as a whole feel disjointed.
I think the yearning here was good, and the romantic subplot was probably the part that shines the most in this book, but the dialogue at times felt off, even though it's a fantasy setting I'd just find some of the things Illyanna and Zen were saying to feel just outlandish, repeatedly talking about their wants for revenge or they will how at the end of my blade in response to something that didn't feel it fit.
I certainly believe that there is an audience for this story, and I think it does a lot of things well, but character development is dependent on dialogue that it was tough for me to get invested in any of the characters because I just kept being pulled out by dialogue that just didn't feel like it fit the scene, and I often felt I was being told how to feel by Illyanna through her internal monologue than feeling that way because of the scene I just read.
I certainly understand why Illyanna is so venemous as well as Zen (especially after the description of what the guards would do to her for amusement, this went big time dark there) based on both of their experiences it's more than understandable, I do think there needed to be a bit more subtly to it to make their anger more releasitic.
Overall not my cup of tea as a character first reader, but I encourage you if you find the blurb interesting, like a good sapphic yearning story, or are more of a plot reader I think this is worth checking out.
2.5 ⭐ rounded to 3 here
Even in the Ashes has an interesting plot and a unique magic system that is shrouded in a bit of misdirection to both our main character Illyanna and the reader as the story opens up. The book is a bit of a slow start that extends what you get in the blurb a bit. The book picks up a little bit after the initial introduction of things, but overall I felt a lot of the situations through the first half just felt rushed, when scenes felt like they were about to get deeper it felt like I was pulled away by a chapter stop even though the next chapter would continue the scene, that brief pause to start a new chapter made the story as a whole feel disjointed.
I think the yearning here was good, and the romantic subplot was probably the part that shines the most in this book, but the dialogue at times felt off, even though it's a fantasy setting I'd just find some of the things Illyanna and Zen were saying to feel just outlandish, repeatedly talking about their wants for revenge or they will how at the end of my blade in response to something that didn't feel it fit.
I certainly believe that there is an audience for this story, and I think it does a lot of things well, but character development is dependent on dialogue that it was tough for me to get invested in any of the characters because I just kept being pulled out by dialogue that just didn't feel like it fit the scene, and I often felt I was being told how to feel by Illyanna through her internal monologue than feeling that way because of the scene I just read.
I certainly understand why Illyanna is so venemous as well as Zen (especially after the description of what the guards would do to her for amusement, this went big time dark there) based on both of their experiences it's more than understandable, I do think there needed to be a bit more subtly to it to make their anger more releasitic.
Overall not my cup of tea as a character first reader, but I encourage you if you find the blurb interesting, like a good sapphic yearning story, or are more of a plot reader I think this is worth checking out.
October 13, 2025
3.5⭐️
Even in the Ashes by T.M. Lewis is a promising debut that immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, revenge, and self-discovery. The story follows Illyanna Davenport, the newly crowned Queen of Kadona, who seeks to dismantle the oppressive regime that led to her mother’s execution. However, her plans are thwarted when she’s framed for a murder, forcing her to flee and seek refuge in a distant kingdom. Along her journey, Illyanna confronts her sheltered upbringing and grapples with her desire for vengeance.
The novel is a sapphic romantasy, blending elements of romance and fantasy, and features a strong female protagonist navigating complex emotions and relationships. The world-building is rich, offering a vivid backdrop to the unfolding drama. While the pacing may feel deliberate at times, it allows for character development and emotional depth.
T.M. Lewis’s writing showcases promise, with moments of lyrical prose and introspective narration. Though there are occasional instances where the writing feels slightly unpolished, they don’t detract significantly from the overall experience.
In summary, Even in the Ashes is an engaging read for fans of character-driven fantasy with themes of empowerment and resilience. It’s a promising start to the Burning Realms series, and readers will likely look forward to the next installment.
Tropes:
• Sapphic Romance
• Revenge Quest
• Political Intrigue
This was an arc read. Thanks so much to the author for allowing me to read before release in exchange for a honest review.
Even in the Ashes by T.M. Lewis is a promising debut that immerses readers in a world of political intrigue, revenge, and self-discovery. The story follows Illyanna Davenport, the newly crowned Queen of Kadona, who seeks to dismantle the oppressive regime that led to her mother’s execution. However, her plans are thwarted when she’s framed for a murder, forcing her to flee and seek refuge in a distant kingdom. Along her journey, Illyanna confronts her sheltered upbringing and grapples with her desire for vengeance.
The novel is a sapphic romantasy, blending elements of romance and fantasy, and features a strong female protagonist navigating complex emotions and relationships. The world-building is rich, offering a vivid backdrop to the unfolding drama. While the pacing may feel deliberate at times, it allows for character development and emotional depth.
T.M. Lewis’s writing showcases promise, with moments of lyrical prose and introspective narration. Though there are occasional instances where the writing feels slightly unpolished, they don’t detract significantly from the overall experience.
In summary, Even in the Ashes is an engaging read for fans of character-driven fantasy with themes of empowerment and resilience. It’s a promising start to the Burning Realms series, and readers will likely look forward to the next installment.
Tropes:
• Sapphic Romance
• Revenge Quest
• Political Intrigue
This was an arc read. Thanks so much to the author for allowing me to read before release in exchange for a honest review.
August 24, 2025
I was so grateful to receive an ARC of Even in the Ashes—thank you to the author for the opportunity. I was especially excited because fantasy that centers two FMCs is still such a rare find, and the premise sounded so promising.
The beginning of the book was a bit repetitive for me. Much of what happens in the first 50 pages is already clear from the synopsis, and the heavy use of third person plus a lot of “telling” instead of “showing” made it difficult to feel immersed in the characters’ journey. At times, it felt like I was reading summaries rather than fully fleshed-out scenes.
Around 1/3rd of the way through, pacing began to pick up, and the plot did move faster in the middle and toward the end. That said, nothing particularly shocking or game-changing ever happened—it was a bit predictable.
Overall, I’d rate this around 2.75–3 stars. I love the representation and the concept, and I think readers who don’t mind a 3rd person perspective and a more summary-driven style might enjoy it more than I did. Overall, I would still recommend this book! For me, it just didn’t quite deliver the immersive reading experience I was hoping for.
The beginning of the book was a bit repetitive for me. Much of what happens in the first 50 pages is already clear from the synopsis, and the heavy use of third person plus a lot of “telling” instead of “showing” made it difficult to feel immersed in the characters’ journey. At times, it felt like I was reading summaries rather than fully fleshed-out scenes.
Around 1/3rd of the way through, pacing began to pick up, and the plot did move faster in the middle and toward the end. That said, nothing particularly shocking or game-changing ever happened—it was a bit predictable.
Overall, I’d rate this around 2.75–3 stars. I love the representation and the concept, and I think readers who don’t mind a 3rd person perspective and a more summary-driven style might enjoy it more than I did. Overall, I would still recommend this book! For me, it just didn’t quite deliver the immersive reading experience I was hoping for.
September 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 (rounded to 4)
Spice: little to no spice
This book opens with an incredibly strong beginning that immediately captured my attention. I was especially drawn to the female main character, Illyanna, whose strength and raw expression of rage made her stand out in a compelling way.
The relationship between Illyanna and Zenleigh was another highlight. Their longing and tension felt authentic, and I appreciated how their bond developed naturally from friendship into romance. It gave their connection real depth and made their story more engaging.
Where the book fell short for me was in pacing and character depth. Certain sections felt rushed, while others could have benefited from more detail. I often wanted to dig deeper into both the world and the characters themselves. The story at times felt surface level, and I wished for a stronger emotional connection that would have elevated the reading experience even further.
Despite that; I was invested in the storyline from beginning to end. I would highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy:
• sapphic romance
• longing and tension
• sea adventures
• family drama
• revenge
• feminine rage
• forbidden romance
Thank you T.M. Lewis for allowing me to be an ARC reader!
Spice: little to no spice
This book opens with an incredibly strong beginning that immediately captured my attention. I was especially drawn to the female main character, Illyanna, whose strength and raw expression of rage made her stand out in a compelling way.
The relationship between Illyanna and Zenleigh was another highlight. Their longing and tension felt authentic, and I appreciated how their bond developed naturally from friendship into romance. It gave their connection real depth and made their story more engaging.
Where the book fell short for me was in pacing and character depth. Certain sections felt rushed, while others could have benefited from more detail. I often wanted to dig deeper into both the world and the characters themselves. The story at times felt surface level, and I wished for a stronger emotional connection that would have elevated the reading experience even further.
Despite that; I was invested in the storyline from beginning to end. I would highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy:
• sapphic romance
• longing and tension
• sea adventures
• family drama
• revenge
• feminine rage
• forbidden romance
Thank you T.M. Lewis for allowing me to be an ARC reader!
September 14, 2025
First of all, thank you to the author for letting me be an arc reader for this book. “Even in the Ashes” is a fast-paced fantasy that pulls you in from the very first page. The story moves quickly, and there is hardly a dull moment as there is always something going on. The FMC, Queen Illyanna, is fierce and unapologetically strong, and she doesn’t let anyone push her around. Her strong personality and determination shine after she’s framed for murder and begins to uncover the truth about her realm’s ignorance of the outside world. Along the way, she rescues a siphon named Zenleigh, and their bond gradually deepens. I loved reading about the characters, as I believe they each added depth and a spark to the plot. The only thing I struggled with this book was some of the grammar, but other than that I really enjoyed this quick read. Also, those last chapters really kept me on edge!! And that cliffhanger???! I can’t wait for the next book and see what happens next! This book is a wild, engaging read that fantasy lovers should definitely check out.
August 24, 2025
Solid 3.5 ⭐️
I think my favorite part of this book is the characters. First, our FMC Queen, Illyanna. She is full of life and fight, and from the moment she realizes she is being framed for murder, she gets her game face on. And when she uncovers how ignorant of the rest of the world her realm has become, her fire burns even hotter.
Oh and that ending?? Immediately I want to know what happens.
What I didn’t like was the POVs. I am really just not a fan of Third Person and it took me out of the story in a lot of places. I prefer first person character POVs, and really being able to get inside their heads. I also think the book would benefit from a glossary of some sort to keep all the novel-specific places and names straight.
I will be reading the next book, and I can truly see this series developing into something unexpected.
I think my favorite part of this book is the characters. First, our FMC Queen, Illyanna. She is full of life and fight, and from the moment she realizes she is being framed for murder, she gets her game face on. And when she uncovers how ignorant of the rest of the world her realm has become, her fire burns even hotter.
Oh and that ending?? Immediately I want to know what happens.
What I didn’t like was the POVs. I am really just not a fan of Third Person and it took me out of the story in a lot of places. I prefer first person character POVs, and really being able to get inside their heads. I also think the book would benefit from a glossary of some sort to keep all the novel-specific places and names straight.
I will be reading the next book, and I can truly see this series developing into something unexpected.
August 25, 2025
I was so lucky to receive an ARC of this book, and it did not disappoint. I flew threw it in the two days where I was able to read. This book's plot never slowed down. It was action and go-go-go. I appreciate that, as I can get bored easily in a book; however, a little slowed down in some areas would have been nice to see even more character emotion. (spoilers) Our two main girls are fierce but also lovey dovey... kinda haha. Illyanna is seeking blood and revenge, but she is also falling in love with a siphon whose touch will kill her. The siphon, Zenleigh, is also a blood-seeking human. I do have to say, if you don't like violent scenes, then be aware, cause it is intense. But what is interesting is watching the two deal with how they feel about killing people. Like they are murder motivated but can't stomach it, which seems realistic to me. Illyanna is seeking revenge for her mother's murder, but also payback for Zenleigh's poor treatment by the palace. They meet Oswin, who also likes Zenleigh and has a crazy, traumatic past due to being a Siphon. The book has a crazy cliff hanger of Illyanna dying to help Zenleigh live after her uncle, whom they thought was good, slit her throat. Yeah, crazy stuff. If I could change anything, I would wish that Zenleigh consistently called her "Illy" since that was an important nickname for her.
FAV PART - honestly, I liked seeing Oswin's struggle with doing what he has always known versus going with the new friendship he found. I am interested to see how his character develops in book two and when he finds out about Gideon being truly evil with making the testing areas (end spoilers).
A year from now is too long for book 2 lol.
FAV PART - honestly, I liked seeing Oswin's struggle with doing what he has always known versus going with the new friendship he found. I am interested to see how his character develops in book two and when he finds out about Gideon being truly evil with making the testing areas (end spoilers).
A year from now is too long for book 2 lol.
August 19, 2025
This book snags your attention IMMEDIATELY! It is fast paced and mysterious. I loved watching the relationships grow and the characters were so interesting. It was funny, suspenseful, heart wrenching, and exciting! The FMC’s do not eff around. They are both so strong in different ways and do not take crap from anyone. Especially men. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat!
August 29, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and felt like I wanted to sit down and finish this in one sitting.
This book is definitely character driven and you can find yourself rooting for both of the FMC’s. It’s still a rarity to have 2 FMC’s and I felt that this book represented both of them very well toying with the idea of power and vengeance.
This book definitely picked up pace towards the end which made it even more engaging and of course left me wanting more!
The exploration of the characters was so interesting and the combination of romance and fantasy was balanced perfectly.
This book was written in third person and I usually enjoy first person a little more but it was still so well written. Every time I put it down I wanted to pick it straight back up.
If you’re looking for a sapphic Romantasy full of angst and revenge and quiet moments of joy all with the addition of one touch could kill.. look no further.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and felt like I wanted to sit down and finish this in one sitting.
This book is definitely character driven and you can find yourself rooting for both of the FMC’s. It’s still a rarity to have 2 FMC’s and I felt that this book represented both of them very well toying with the idea of power and vengeance.
This book definitely picked up pace towards the end which made it even more engaging and of course left me wanting more!
The exploration of the characters was so interesting and the combination of romance and fantasy was balanced perfectly.
This book was written in third person and I usually enjoy first person a little more but it was still so well written. Every time I put it down I wanted to pick it straight back up.
If you’re looking for a sapphic Romantasy full of angst and revenge and quiet moments of joy all with the addition of one touch could kill.. look no further.
September 6, 2025
if you love revenge, magic, an action packed plot, love interests, and a strong fmc who takes no shit you’ll love this book!! the friendships made, the twists, the internal battle, the love story, and the need to avenge those she loved kept me reading this book and loving every second!
September 30, 2025
ARC reader!
This book was outstanding in so many ways, and it quickly became one of the highlights of my 2025 reading list. From the very first chapter, the sense of adventure pulled me in and kept me engaged all the way through. The pacing felt seamless—each moment of action built naturally into the next, creating a world that was both immersive and dynamic.
One of the things I appreciated most was the way romance was handled. Too often in fantasy, romantic subplots either feel forced or end up overshadowing the main storyline. Here, it was written with balance and intention. The relationship elements complemented the overarching plot without detracting from the adventure, making the emotional moments feel earned rather than distracting.
I was also deeply impressed with how feminine rage was portrayed. It wasn’t exaggerated or turned into a stereotype, but instead presented with authenticity and nuance. It felt raw, justified, and empowering in a way that resonated without overwhelming the narrative. That kind of representation is rare, and it added an important layer of depth to the character work.
Another aspect that stood out to me was the magic system. The world-building surrounding it was creative and refreshing, setting this book apart from many others in the genre. I especially loved the mention of Siphoning—it’s a power type I rarely encounter in fantasy novels, and its inclusion felt both innovative and perfectly aligned with the world the author built. It gave the story a sense of originality that made the magical elements feel alive and full of possibility.
Overall, this book was a wonderful surprise that exceeded my expectations. It delivered on adventure, character development, emotional depth, and originality, all while maintaining a storyline that kept me eager to turn the page. I’m incredibly glad this was one of my reads for 2025, and I’ll be waiting with excitement for the release of the next installment.
This book was outstanding in so many ways, and it quickly became one of the highlights of my 2025 reading list. From the very first chapter, the sense of adventure pulled me in and kept me engaged all the way through. The pacing felt seamless—each moment of action built naturally into the next, creating a world that was both immersive and dynamic.
One of the things I appreciated most was the way romance was handled. Too often in fantasy, romantic subplots either feel forced or end up overshadowing the main storyline. Here, it was written with balance and intention. The relationship elements complemented the overarching plot without detracting from the adventure, making the emotional moments feel earned rather than distracting.
I was also deeply impressed with how feminine rage was portrayed. It wasn’t exaggerated or turned into a stereotype, but instead presented with authenticity and nuance. It felt raw, justified, and empowering in a way that resonated without overwhelming the narrative. That kind of representation is rare, and it added an important layer of depth to the character work.
Another aspect that stood out to me was the magic system. The world-building surrounding it was creative and refreshing, setting this book apart from many others in the genre. I especially loved the mention of Siphoning—it’s a power type I rarely encounter in fantasy novels, and its inclusion felt both innovative and perfectly aligned with the world the author built. It gave the story a sense of originality that made the magical elements feel alive and full of possibility.
Overall, this book was a wonderful surprise that exceeded my expectations. It delivered on adventure, character development, emotional depth, and originality, all while maintaining a storyline that kept me eager to turn the page. I’m incredibly glad this was one of my reads for 2025, and I’ll be waiting with excitement for the release of the next installment.
September 29, 2025
First of all thank you so much to the author for sending me this book. I received an arc and this is my honest review.
Jumping into the story it comes in strong and fast. What you read in the blurb is what you get. I thought there would have been a little bit more explanation or introduction, but we’re diving in head first.
Then as the story progresses it feels choppy at times. Right as the reader starts to get into a groove the chapter ends and picks right back up in the next one. Flow is a bit of an issue but once it’s settled it’s an easier read.
When I was approached to read this book I was so excited. I jumped at the opportunity. Cause there really aren’t that many sapphic romance books out there and even less that are fantasy. I’m hopeful for the rest of the series. The ending was brutal and I can’t wait to get answers.
So if you love action, revenge, love, and fantasy then check this book out!!
Jumping into the story it comes in strong and fast. What you read in the blurb is what you get. I thought there would have been a little bit more explanation or introduction, but we’re diving in head first.
Then as the story progresses it feels choppy at times. Right as the reader starts to get into a groove the chapter ends and picks right back up in the next one. Flow is a bit of an issue but once it’s settled it’s an easier read.
When I was approached to read this book I was so excited. I jumped at the opportunity. Cause there really aren’t that many sapphic romance books out there and even less that are fantasy. I’m hopeful for the rest of the series. The ending was brutal and I can’t wait to get answers.
So if you love action, revenge, love, and fantasy then check this book out!!
September 10, 2025
First of all I want to say thank you to the author for picking me to be an arc reader! With that being said here’s my willingly honest review:
I would give this a 4.25 ⭐️ rating! I absolutely loved the power elements in this book and it was a nice break from the magic/powers you see in a lot of fantasy/romantasy books lately. The characters really make this story that much better though! You have the revenge seeking queen, the greedy and power hungry kings, the comical/ witty broken tough guy, and the girl that makes the queen and everyone around her a better person. Their banter and conversation with each other makes this book easily digested and very enjoyable! I honestly couldn’t stop reading it! That ending though?!! I need book to like yesterday!!!! I would definitely recommend this book!
I would give this a 4.25 ⭐️ rating! I absolutely loved the power elements in this book and it was a nice break from the magic/powers you see in a lot of fantasy/romantasy books lately. The characters really make this story that much better though! You have the revenge seeking queen, the greedy and power hungry kings, the comical/ witty broken tough guy, and the girl that makes the queen and everyone around her a better person. Their banter and conversation with each other makes this book easily digested and very enjoyable! I honestly couldn’t stop reading it! That ending though?!! I need book to like yesterday!!!! I would definitely recommend this book!
September 29, 2025
Thank you so much T.M. Lewis for the ARC in exchange for the honest review!!
This was a very interesting concept and part of what drew me to this story was the utter rage Illy was feeling to want to see her entire kingdom in ashes.
I think this book was a great show of a fantasy with a romance subplot. I think that you are able to see the romance between Illy and Zen grow naturally. I would have liked to of had a little bit more world building but I like the fact that we don’t get too much all at once, it helps the story to me feel more digestible and not like there is a hurdle in the first chapter.
Overall this was a great debut for T.M. Lewis! I can’t wait to see how their writing style progresses and where we go within the burning realms series! And thank you so much for the opportunity to read this!
This was a very interesting concept and part of what drew me to this story was the utter rage Illy was feeling to want to see her entire kingdom in ashes.
I think this book was a great show of a fantasy with a romance subplot. I think that you are able to see the romance between Illy and Zen grow naturally. I would have liked to of had a little bit more world building but I like the fact that we don’t get too much all at once, it helps the story to me feel more digestible and not like there is a hurdle in the first chapter.
Overall this was a great debut for T.M. Lewis! I can’t wait to see how their writing style progresses and where we go within the burning realms series! And thank you so much for the opportunity to read this!
September 30, 2025
I’m so happy I got an arc of this book! It was a solid good time. I was so interested to see a sapphic Romantasy (so rare!!) however I did miss out on the immersive reading I love so much. Which could have been because it was 3rd person which is my least favorite writing style. So that’s not the authors fault! That’s just my preference.
The beginning was a little slow for me but the middle and end picked up and got more interesting which is completely standard for a new fantasy novel. The plot was PLOTTING!
I loooove our Queen FMC she’s badass 👏🏻 and the adventure in this book kept me captivated.
The ending left me wanting to know what happened immediately haha! In the best way.
Overall I had fun!
The beginning was a little slow for me but the middle and end picked up and got more interesting which is completely standard for a new fantasy novel. The plot was PLOTTING!
I loooove our Queen FMC she’s badass 👏🏻 and the adventure in this book kept me captivated.
The ending left me wanting to know what happened immediately haha! In the best way.
Overall I had fun!
September 19, 2025
The book had a bit of a slow start for me but it definitely picked up near the end. The romance was a mixture of a slow burn and not. They confessed their love but there was also a waiting aspect to the relationship. I wish the uncles true intentions were left to be discovered mid battle but it still was a good addition to the book, it gave the plot more depth. The scene between the uncle and her father was probably my favorite part. The ending had the best part of the book and I am lowkey curious to know what happens next. I will be tuning in for book 2. Thank you so much for sending me this Arc!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
*ARC Review*
First I want to say thank you so much to the author for sending me her book to read and review. It was such an honor.
This book starts off with a bang and really gets interesting. Throughout the book I just found it a little bit lacking in terms of keeping my attention as she went on her journey. I did love her relationship with Zen and how you could really feel their connection with one another but then it would sort of go away and come back. It left me wanting more to that part of it. The adventure was fun.
Overall I do recommend to give this book a shot !
First I want to say thank you so much to the author for sending me her book to read and review. It was such an honor.
This book starts off with a bang and really gets interesting. Throughout the book I just found it a little bit lacking in terms of keeping my attention as she went on her journey. I did love her relationship with Zen and how you could really feel their connection with one another but then it would sort of go away and come back. It left me wanting more to that part of it. The adventure was fun.
Overall I do recommend to give this book a shot !
September 28, 2025
4 ⭐️ Such a promising start for a sapphic romantasy series! Our FMC is queen for a day and after being framed for murder she’s out for REVENGE not just for her but for her beloved🔥 The love interest is just as feisty as our FMC which I love their dynamic how they’re only soft with each other but with everyone else they’re a force. There’s a side plot of friendship that was so powerful 🥹 I was wondering in certain parts of this was going to become an FFM read 👀
Overall I think this is a great debut 👏🏼👏🏼 hats off to the author for opportunity to read the ARC!
Overall I think this is a great debut 👏🏼👏🏼 hats off to the author for opportunity to read the ARC!
October 2, 2025
ARC REVIEW
One thing that I really enjoyed about this book is the relationship between the two FMCs. I don't mean the cutesy "I'll do anything to protect you" or "you make me believe in love"... I mean the "I will literally slaughter an entire kingdom and bring them to their knees for looking at you wrong" type of energy that we've got going on.
Even though I knew what was going to happen by the end (was mentioned in the beginning what someones intentions truly were) it still left my jaw hanging open! Event after event after event I'm anxious to see what will happen in Book 2.
One thing that I really enjoyed about this book is the relationship between the two FMCs. I don't mean the cutesy "I'll do anything to protect you" or "you make me believe in love"... I mean the "I will literally slaughter an entire kingdom and bring them to their knees for looking at you wrong" type of energy that we've got going on.
Even though I knew what was going to happen by the end (was mentioned in the beginning what someones intentions truly were) it still left my jaw hanging open! Event after event after event I'm anxious to see what will happen in Book 2.
September 10, 2025
OH MY GOD?!!?! this book is just WOW. i need the 2nd stat.
September 10, 2025
This book from the first chapter made me think of Arya Stark from Game of Thrones. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and with this ending I am itching to know what happens next!
September 23, 2025
I received this book as an arc! I did have a good time while reading it. I liked the magic system in it alot, and absolutely loved the strong FMCs. I just wasn’t invested in the story or characters as much as i would have liked so i gave it the rating i did. It was a nice read and i do want to see where things go in book 2.
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