A tale of magic and romance set during the Regency Era in a fantasy mirroring of 1800s England
Lord Sebastien “Bastien” Savila is a social outcast due to fear stemming from his strong role in a magic rebellion almost fifteen years prior. He is also responsible for ensuring his niece of fifteen has every opportunity to establish a fortunate marriage connection in a society driven by social expectations and petty vindictiveness. When the Baylores and Lady Cara move into the county to seek aid from his potion-making prowess, he finds the Lady both distasteful and drawing in equal measure. He does not know why Lady Cara’s Sitar—her magic essence—pulls against his own nor why it seems to deepen. To complicate matters, an unknown rogue, the son of a man Bastien served alongside in the rebellion over a decade before, wants Bastien to stand beside him and assist with a new rebellion that could have dire consequences.
Lady Cara Baylore, unmarried in her mid-thirties but wealthy and affluent enough to not need such a connection, despises society’s expectations even if she unconsciously expects adherence from others. Meeting Lord Savila, she finds him off-putting and cold, though she does not yet know the rumors darkening his reputation. Her primary concern is safe-guarding her sister in law, Joi, who nearly died during the last pregnancy and Lord Savila’s well-known potion-making abilities are the best means of that. But she soon learns there is far more to the man than their society is willing to see and a gentleness she did not expect.
A story of longing and romance with a touch of danger set in the 1800s Regency Era with a subtle touch of fantasy. Lord Salvia is a social outcast even 15yrs after the rebellion. Yet he has done everything in his power to raise his niece with every opportunity to make sure she will have a successful pairing. Even though the society has been driven by expectations and petty vindictiveness. Lady Cara is unmarried in her mid-thirties. yet, is affluent and wealthy. currently living with her brother/sister in law and helping take care of the children. At first she finds Lord Salvia off putting, but there is more to him than society's rumors is willing to say, and a gentleness she cant shake.
This book was a perfect pallete cleanser. It truly is full of slowburn, but stays true to the Regency era time with staying in groups when of mixed company. This book had just a sprinkle of fantasy/magic. Think more herbalist. Yet, the independence and banter was top notch. The slow build of relationships was true to the time frame. I do wish we would have gotten more of the stories toward the ending. Yet, I did like how it wrapped up. The fact that people in the community continued to hold the past against him, the opression and injustice, I think the author done a fantastic job touching on the fragile topic. The pace is slower, but the Character development and flow is perfect. The winged cat was my favorite part honestly 😍. I won't lie, I have read every single book this author writes, and she never disappoints; i cant wait to see where she takes us next!
I received this book as an ARC. I really enjoyed this book. The magical parts were confusing. I would have liked a little more background as to what happened in the rebellion era. It would have made more sense as to why Bastian was hated so much by the towns people and why he was arrested twice. I loved all the characters. I would recommend this book.
This is a fun light low stakes read that’s set in the regency era but with magic. It’s short and I think it could have flushed out the magic system more if it was longer.
If you’re looking for something easy and light with a Bridgerton vibe with no spice give this a shot.
I received this book as an ARC to review before publication. I will say this book had a lot of factors that initially drew me in: fantasy/regency theme, clean romance, Professor Snape inspired MMC...
I truly did go into this book with high hopes but after finishing it I felt it was lacking in development. I have read several high level fantasy books and I felt that this one really mainly focused on regency era with few mentions of details that could pertain to fantasy.
I didn't quite grasp the magic system and wish details could have been more descriptive. I also felt the romance didn't feel natural between the MMC & FMC...I felt like out of nowhere these two people suddenly have feelings for each other? slightly confusing to me... I had to reread paragraphs several times throughout the story to understand what was happening.
The storyline itself, had lots of potential and perhaps someone who reads this will truly enjoy it but I believe if the plot was more developed it would be a fantastic read for me ❤️ Lots of potential for sure though!! I highly recommend giving it a read, perhaps you'll find it's just the one for you ✨
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and was surprised how much I enjoyed it! I wasn't expecting it to captivate me as much as it did. When I saw the author describe it as having a similar style to Jane Austen's works but including fantasy elements, I wasn't sure this would be a good fit for me, but this author is an excellent story teller. The world the author created did not feel forced, and while the story kept my interest, I did not feel my emotions were being toyed with, if that makes sense. It was not "cheesy," as I sometimes feel books that I otherwise like are. The events unfolding around Bastien throughout the book felt like they were handled realistically, and I really enjoyed the last two chapters of the book. I feel it would lead well into another book that continues to follow Cara and Bastien (although it's hard to write this without spoilers). I feel this book would be good for a younger audience as well, as it's completely clean.
This was a wonderfully written regency era no-spice fantasy romance! I loved the main characters, how they interacted with each other, and how they reacted to the way Bastien was mistreated by the residents in the county. The extra suspense of him gathering information about a new rebellion made for some tense moments. I liked the subtle magic system, and how Bastien's and Cara's seemed to call to each other. I also enjoyed Bastien's loyalty to taking care of his niece and trying to keep his mistreatment unknown to her.
Lord Sebastien Savila is an outcast due to his past transgressions during a magic rebellion. He has taken care of his niece since she was young, ensuring she is well provided for, and most importantly loved. When Lord Christian Baylore seeks Bastien's potion-making skills to help his wife through a complicated pregnancy, Bastien, along with his niece Emilia, is drawn into the Baylore family. The Lord's sister, Lady Cara, helps to take care of Lady Joi, and interacts with Bastien frequently. At first she's cold and distant towards him, which he's used to from others, but he can't help notice how his magic seems to react to her own. In the midst of everything he's being pulled into an underground rebellion by a sketchy man, and with the help of his multi-skilled butler, Port, starts gathering information. As Bastien's and Cara's lives intertwine with each other will she be able to see what others are unwilling to, and fall for the gentleman she's come to know?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review. All opinions are my own.
This Regency era novel starts off strong with Bastien being treated as an outcast due to his actions in a rebellion many years in the past. Bastien is a man that has some unnatural magic yet a heart of gold for his niece and those he cares for. His magic comes out quick when those he cares for are in danger. We quickly meet Cara who also has some earth magic. Cara is true to herself, kind yet doesn’t tolerate disrespect and lets them know in a straightforward and ladylike way. Can we just talk about how I love that both the mmc and fmc are in their mid to upper 30’s. The relationship between Cara and Bastien is absolutely incredible. They both feel an unnatural pull to each other and it is definitely a yearning to slow burn. It was great to see a loving, friends first, and healthy relationship. They both truly love each other with no judgement and with their whole heart. The story has rebellions, dark elf magic, animal familiarity magic, all the magic types, a beautiful winged cat, Sitar(magical essence),strong mmc, strong fmc, Lords and Ladies, and poultice(made by the one and only Bastien). The story does have a kidnapping but our man comes to the rescue. The authors words flow magically and have you escaping into the pages. I cheered with character, yelled at my kindle screen at a few parts that I didn’t see coming, and felt all the emotions. Beautifully done Jane Austen would be proud. Thank you HM Bloom for allowing me to be apart of your journey and for ARC.
Out of Dusk's Shadow by H. M. Bloom is your next fix for a fantastical regency romance.
I loved this book. This book mixed the genres that I love the most, historical fiction with fantasy and it was super well done. There was a whole world created within this book and it felt effortless with the rules of Victorian society that I knew of. I loved the atmosphere created with Victorian ballrooms and magic flowing between those of high and low society.
💫Set in the Regency Era 💫An outcast you can't help but love 💫Wholesome and sweet romance 💫Historical/Fantastical Elements 💫A rebellion and social oppression
The FMC a spinster in high society that was living with her brother and sister in law. I just absolutely loved her, someone who didn't judge unfairly and who didn't have rash impressions based on the gossiping of society. She approached every challenge with honor to every being, and did her best to see each side of the story before judgement. I wish I could be like Lady Cara. The MMC was also someone who was a dedicated uncle to his niece, and someone who did his best to look at all angles given to him. I just loved it!
I recommend this book to anyone who wants a Jane Austen inspired novel with magical elements.
From Dusk to Dawn by H.M. Bloom is a moody, slow-burn fantasy romance that prioritizes emotional depth over chaos—and honestly, that’s either going to be your thing or it’s not. This book is here for the vibes, the tension, and the quiet moments that sneak up on you and hit harder than expected.
The pacing is intentional and unhurried. If you need constant action, this may feel slow, but if you enjoy sinking into a story and letting the characters do the heavy lifting, it works. The worldbuilding stays mostly in the background, which keeps the focus exactly where it belongs: on the characters and their evolving connection.
And then there’s that quote:
“No. You do not let me do anything, Sebastian Savila. I can choose whichever path I desire… I would still choose you today and every day.”
This line? This is the book. A romance built on choice, agency, and mutual respect—not possession, not fate, not “I had no other option.” It’s refreshing, powerful, and quietly devastating in the best way. These emotionally grounded moments are where From Dusk to Dawn truly shines.
Is it perfect? No. Did it make me feel things anyway? Absolutely. If you love slow-burn fantasy romance, introspective characters, and love that’s chosen loudly and unapologetically, this one is worth your time.
I enjoyed this story! It had an interesting twist on historical fiction by adding in magic and mythical creatures (but not so much that it’s a whole new world). I enjoyed the mature conversations between Bastien and Cara. I loved the way that Cara stepped in to support his niece and the care she had for all the people she loved. I also enjoyed that Bastien cared for Cara, when she was always the caregiver. Their love started as a friendship and it was very sweet. The supporting characters were also well done and helped add depth to the story. So fun to see 1800 England but with a twist of magic and fantasy.
Favorites: 🫧Cara & Joi’s friendship 🫧the world blending 🫧the mystery 🫧 Emilia 🫧the friendship first 🫧she cares for everyone around her 🫧he cares for her 🫧the festival 🫧 honest conversations 🫧 tonks the cat
‼️ there was a very intense/ traumatic birth& after birth scene that may be difficult for some to read.
This is a fantasy romance set in a Regency era style universe. Some of the elements specific to that setting were clunky and stiff, but I think it must be difficult to write in the Regency era, especially right now. I didn't understand the bits about Bastien sometimes being shunned but sometimes being beloved. It seemed people either loved or hated the poor man, with no in between! Other than that, I really liked the book. I liked the magic a lot, and was intrigued by how it was viewed within the universe. I only wish we had seen more! I liked all the characters and the romance. I always like a book where the conflict is external to the romance and we get to see the love interests work together to overcome it. This has no spice. This is a standalone book, but the author has hinted at more books set in the same universe. I will absolutely read them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I quite enjoyed this book. It was a easy and clean read. I love the fantasy/Regency theme the Bloom has going but I do wish there was more development on the fantasy side. Perhaps explanation on the separation of classes or maybe some world building and history in the beginning. I think that would've helped tie together the fantasy side of the writing. The Regency era aspects were written well, it gave the vibes of the era while still being easy to understand. I actually enjoyed the "weird chemistry" between Sebastien and Clara, but a little more longing would've been nice. Im thankful to have received this book as an ARC from the author and all the opinions in this review are my own. Overall, I would reccomend this book, especially to those who are wanting to dip their toes into fantasy and/or Regency themed books.
If you’re looking for a quick, lighthearted regency fantasy, this is it! This book was a cozy palette cleanser with low stakes and no spice.
That said, the story had plot and potential, but really lacked in execution and development. I would’ve loved to have 100 more pages to read if it meant the relationship between the MCs developed more and we learned more about the magic system and the MMC’s “dark” past.
The story’s ending felt rushed and left me needing more context in a lot of areas.
I’m so grateful to H.M. Bloom for sending me this eARC 🫶🏼 I needed this story to break up some of the darker books I’ve read lately!
I could not put this book down! I was engrossed in the story between Stebastian and Cara. One of my favorite quotes was when he told Cara to start using his first name, and Cara said me too, and he made a joke saying, “Oh, I didn’t know your name was Sebastian too, what a weird name for a girl”! I loved the humor in this story and the adventures they went on. The towns were magical, and the characters were flowing. There were dramatic moments in this book, so if you like some drama and humor, this is the book for you! I can’t wait to see what comes next, if there are any others after this one! Got this as an ARC reader.
I received an advance copy as an ARC reader. I was very excited to read this book, as I am a big fan of both Regency era and fantasy. It for sure delivered on the Regency era. I thoroughly enjoyed all of those aspects. The relationships between the characters were pretty well developed but I could've used a little more tension between the main characters. And I do feel like the fantasy aspects could have been developed a little more.
Overall, it was a pretty good read. Definitely clean, which I appreciated.
This book initially had me confused with the language. However it is total Bridgerton vibes and I am here for it 10000% I loved seeing how the love story bloomed. Curious as to how the officers were able to detain Bastien more than once without providing evidence of crimes. I look forward to learning more about Emilia’s and Williams story. And I can’t wait to see where this story goes with the adventures of Bastien and Cara in the new lands. This book took you on an adventure while allowing love to become a part of it. I received this book as an ARC and this is my honest review!
ARC READER REVIEW This was a light, fun read. It had all the elements of a great story, but I felt like it fell flat in some parts. I would have liked a deeper dive into the magical aspects, but I am a big fan of how I was pulled into the regency era. Sebastian and Cara had chemistry, but I do wish there was a little more tension. Would I recommend this book? Yes, I think it’s a solid choice for middle/high school readers.
***ARC REVIEW*** Definitely hard to put down, the MMC hit me in the feels with how he is treated vs his actual character, the FMC is a strong willed opinionated character who I love. The story gives kind of a Jane Austin vibe. If you like her writings then you will definitely like this story. However, I would have loved more on the rebellion and why the MMC is treated this way. The parts regarding magic aren’t very informative which leaves you asking questions.
First off, I really appreciate the author for letting me read this early!
Secondly, Sebastian is just a grumpy old man with a a teddy bear heart for taking in his sons daughter. AND this man will show you the how to of wanting someone but not feeling like he's good enough and not the right time to be with Cara.
Lastly, Cara is just a feisty spinster that does not care. And I love that for her!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I was given this book as I said earlier today as an advanced copy to read before its release date of February 13, 2026.
I started kate afternoon snd jyst finished. It was sbiug a 4 hour listen (with breaks of course).
This is a light fantasy book that showed how a difference in a person can change a small towns perspective of who you are..without truly knowing who you are.
This wasn’t a deep, dark read at all. Easy to get through!
I enjoyed this fantasy novel. I liked the MFC Cara and MMC Bastien as a couple. I thought the development of their relationship was well done. It wasn’t overly long either. The author told the story she wanted to tell and didn’t drag it out with a bunch of filler pages. I highly appreciated that.
I received this book as an ARC read. I was drawn to this book by the light fantasy and romance genre, but I became aware that this might not be the type of book for me. I had a hard time adjusting to the writing style and I was often confused about the magic, and relationship development throughout the book.
This clean regency fantasy was a breath of fresh air, and I enjoyed reading it immensely! The world building and character growth were both incredible, and there were two romances in this book. I loved the themes of good overcoming evil and standing for the rights of the oppressed! This book left me wanting to make the world a better place. I received an ARC copy and this is my review.
I was an ARC reader for this book. it isn’t something I’d normally pick up but it was a fun concept. I liked the Jane Austen vibes and the magical elements. A real historical fantasy that I think romantasy readers will devour!
I enjoyed the book. It was a fun regency feeling story with added magical elements. I loved the characters and their stories. I would have loved more context to the backstory of the MMC, I feel it would have made it easier to understand why there was so much prejudice against him. It was a sweet story.