The Raven Queen awaits. Will you rise up and answer the call?
1823
Triona Sinclair was never meant for an ordinary life.
A spark of something powerful has always lived within her—silent and still, until the moment it finally woke.
A moment of fire and ruin.
With her world shattered, Triona escapes into the wilds of Scotland—flanked by four allies, each loyal in their own way.
But none of them challenge her quite like Finn MacGregor.
Her fiercest defender. The one who’s always been there—in shadows and in silence—and wanted her long before she ever looked his way. A bond as sure as the stars.
But fate is written with ink no one can rewrite.
Hunted for a power she doesn’t yet understand, Triona must seek allies in a world brimming with myth and memory. Survival is no longer enough.
A buried magic is calling.
To protect her world and the people she loves, she must decide if she can embrace the destiny that calls to her…
No matter the cost.
Perfect for fans of dark fantasy, slow-burn forbidden romance, and epic hero’s journeys, The Violet Raven is the thrilling beginning of the Warriors of the Raven Queen series.
“There will come a day when ye’ll have to make choices that will feel impossible. Not out of fear or fate bidden obligation, but because of those impacted if ye refuse." (Ch 13)
The Violet Raven is a prophecy driven epic high fantasy journey. It's like a brilliantly woven and detailed tapestry evoked through an eloquent narrative of world building. Complete with found family, slow burn friends to lovers, tempting fate, goddess, magic, quests, magical objects/artifacts, trials, and high-stakes danger.
"....alliances forged in adversity and friendships built through trials." (Ch 32)
Though beautifully written, the beginning is fairly thick and I had to go back and reread it to make sure I understood it well. The characters are likeable and grow on you. The plot is fair, though I did find that though the story was long, a couple of things still fell to the wayside. It does have points that pulled on my heart strings and put it through the ringer, though! The second book is sure to top this one as it left off on a considerable jolting cliffhanger.
“Together, united by bonds forged in fire, in blood, and some even in silence; you may yet find the power to prevail over the forces that seek to undo you.” (Ch 32)
eARC review courtesy of author E.E. Star and Naughty Nook PR
It’s a 4.5 🌟 for me! I listened to The Violet Raven on audiobook and let me tell you - it is enthralling!!
This novel is a sweeping, slow burn, HEAVY world building historical fantasy full of Celtic lore and primarily set in 1800s Ireland. It’s a gorgeous story with incredible backstory and character development. If you listen as an audiobook, the narrators are TOP TIER.
The author describes this story as appealing to fans of Outlander and Lord of the Rings. Now I haven’t read or seen Outlander, I haven’t read LOTR, and I haven’t seen the LOTR movies in at least 15 years. But the vibe was definitely on par with what I remember of LOTR, and it was also giving Game of Thrones (TV series, again, I haven’t read) with all of the different characters and settings and backstory provided.
The beginning is a pretty slow start, with backstory and tales from the characters’ childhoods. But around 30% things kicked up 1000% and never stopped from there. The writing is beautiful, and you find yourself caring SO much about these characters and their relationships and journeys with one another. The setting is stunning and I could just picture all the different locations they were in and how they were traveling. Be forewarned - the last 10% or so is KILLERRRRRRR. My heart was ripped out of my chest and stomped on until it was flat.
I have to once again mention the narrators for the audiobook. It’s a duet narration with FULL CAST; five real, human artists put their hearts, souls, and voices into this project and it shows. Their accents and different intonations were perfect and really breathed life into the story. Because it’s such a long read and slow burn, I think I may have struggled to eyeball read this one through, at least for the first time. I am SO appreciative to have listened to this story.
All said, give this amazing, epic adventure a chance. Highly recommend the story, writing, and narrators, and giving an indie author your time and energy. Long live Triona!!!
I would say I was hooked pretty early on after starting the book. I enjoyed the character building as well as the descriptive writing regarding the landscape etc. I enjoyed the FMC. I am hoping we get to see more of her physical strength and fierceness in the next book. As for the MMC, you just have to read the book #IYKYK.
For me, the only thing lacking was the development of the magic system so late into the book. For the majority of the book, it felt just a romance novel. I was craving a bit more fantasy elements. Hopefully, though we will get all of that in the next book.
Definitely recommend reading this book!
The was an honest review of the ARC I received. Thank you to the author and Naughty Nook PR for the opportunity to read this ahead of print!
Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and E. E. Star for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Buckle up, because the violet raven will take you on a LONG ride. If you love high fantasy, insanely detailed world building, and a romance slow enough to send you to a nursing home, this one is for you.
I honestly really, really enjoyed this book. I am not a huge fan of any miscommunication tropes but I have to admit, I was still hooked. This is a SLOW BURN romance and you will not receive any kind of instant gratification from the FMC + MMC. And good lord does the romance send you on a winding path.
You will use the glossary so helpfully included in the beginning of the book. You will, I know you will. If you are a native English speaker, you might be largely unfamiliar with the Scottish and Irish terminology. There is a LOT included in the book. The author is incredibly thorough with her glossary which I personally appreciate.
The beginning did not hook me, but the story was good enough for me to push through. Things did eventually pick up, but the first few chapters are very dense and difficult to read in my opinion. Of course, this is the first in a series and there are a lot of unanswered questions towards the end. I’m not sure if I’ll immediately pick up the second book when it releases but I will eventually read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
⭐️ALC REVEIW⭐️ I loved this story even more the second time!! the magic the prophecy the place in where this book took place absolutely enveloped me entirely. I loved that we got a strong FMC that can hold her own but also the bond between the characters especially the found family running through the chaos it was emotional and grounding in the best way possible and I was so happy to be in this world again!! When I first read this ARC and found out there would be an audiobook I was over the moon and now that it’s finally here I can’t recommend it enough!! This audiobook was absolutely amazing the full cast brought the story to life in such a magical way!! Each narrator fit their character perfectly adding so much depth and emotion that it felt like I was watching the story unfold right in front of me. It made an already stunning book feel even more alive. This was one of the first few fantasy books I read when first getting into the genre so I blame this book for putting me on the book path I’m on now!
⭐️5/5 Stars — “A Stunning Adventure Full of Heart!”⭐️
The Violet Raven feels like stepping into a dream you never want to wake up from mysterious, a little wild, and absolutely unforgettable. E.E. Star has created a world that was beautiful with characters who are just the right kind of wonderfully weird and a plot that twists like ivy around a crumbling tower. The unbreakable bond of family running through every chapter. It’s messy it’s beautiful and it gives the wild fantasy a grounding emotional core that makes everything hit even harder. And Finn oh Finn! His fierce loyalty, hidden softness and the way he calls her “little doe” completely stole my heart. Their bond is the kind that lingers long after you turn the last page. If you love your stories a little poetic and a lot unforgettable The Violet Raven is one you won’t want to miss.
~this was an ARC read for an honest review. Thank you to the author and NetGalley!~
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Let me tell you. Let me TELL you. The Violet Raven is a masterpiece. Yup. Said it. I got an ARC of this from #netgalley and it is something different than what is all out there but cozy in the same. I love me a good fantasy romance. This leans more towards high fantasy and i cannot wait for book two!!
The narrators blew this away. The accents and emotion pulled me right in. It was an amazing full cast performance, and they brought every character to life beautifully. There was never any doubt about which character was speaking or where they came from in the world! 👏👏
I really enjoyed this book overall and the Celtic lore (one of my favourite rabbit holes), though it did feel quite long. The events that set everything in motion at the start don’t seem to hold as much weight later on, and I found myself wishing for a bit more connection back to those beginnings. It’s a fantastic he falls first romance with rich world building, but the fantasy elements take quite a while to unfold.
For much of the story, it reads more like a highland historical romance—political intrigue, aching hearts, and slow revelations—before the fantasy really steps into the spotlight later on. It’s a slower, more "explaining" kind of book, but with compelling characters and tension that kept me hooked. I’m hoping book two brings more adventure now that the groundwork has been laid!!
The Violet Raven is an extraordinary Irish historical fantasy that sweeps readers into a realm where ancient Celtic legends meet breathtaking adventure. Set against the rugged, mist-shrouded landscapes of Ireland, the novel seamlessly blends historical authenticity with a rich tapestry of magic and myth.
The story took place in the midst of the scotland during 1823.Our Author E.E star depicts the vivid description of power among the God and Goddesses that time.The author started with the story describing young girl of 6 years old named Triona who possess extra ordinary abilities,mind wasfull of curiosity and innate power .her mind was very sharp and witful to solved any mystery questions . Her mind s always diverted and revolves towards some unatural things and she s the girl who s fearless never get scared of anything .she wanted to become a warrior as her mother Ellen Sinclair always told her daughter stories of God and goddessess to make her daughter strong and she could fight in her life whenever she would face problems in life so that she could overcome by fighting fiercely and bravely .so the author stated a mother ‘s love and caring nature for her daughter ,Ever her father loved his daughter very much and the husband loved both wife and daughter so I the bond of familarity was shown in the story .here the responsibility of parents draws the attention of the readers .who wanted her daughter to be brave enough to fight against any circumstances and prepared her daughter to make a good powerful person in life .
The author had drawn the attention of the readers when Ellen Sinclair related a story of God and goddess during Ireland clashes between the God and goddess who wanted to holds thesupreme power and inherit the land of Ireland .At that time, the fighting was going between the Tuatha De Danan,people of the Goddess Danu,who wanted to attacked Eriu who holds a supreme power and It was said in mythology that no one had so much power that could beat the power of Eriu .was the female goddessand Triad,was the male God so Eriu already reign the land covering lakes and streams so she had one creature named Raven ,black in colour ,extra ordinary supernatural bird can change its colour and form and fight fiercelessly.Eriu could change the structure of any creature according to his wish .she doesn’t take any place in the battle by going in the battle just watched by sitting and sending raven to fight fearlessly and cunningly.so shewas very brave and holds a supernatural power to defeat the enemies and won the war. The author shows the theme of loyalty ,sympathy ,love in the creature.Now Eriu doesntwanted to fight and bring back the peace and non violence she decided to sacrifice his land and would have to her brother to maintained the rules and spirits of Ireland .she decided to met Melisans but when he gone there Amergin occupied the way and told her that she was ready to give the land to him but she could only get half land above the water and the other land Tuatha De Dannanso there would be a peace treaty signed between them In this way they main tained the realm of land of Scotland .Eriu agreed and in this way she was successful maintaining power and defeating the rival Tuatha De Dannan got drowned in water .so the author draws a emotional background in the story that became pathetic and left a everlasting impression on the readers .
So the whole story assumes the power and the parents also wanted her daughter to hold such.a power in life that no one could ever defeat her daughter and daughter could lived a successful life and got prosperous in life .
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Format: Audiobook - Multi-cast in duet by June Deborahae, James Joseph, John Hartley, J.F. Harding, and Robert Hatchet Series / Standalone: Warriors of the Raven Queen, Book 1 Tropes: Historical Fantasy, Scottish Heroes, He Falls First, Epic Adventures, Soulmates, Slow Burn
Thanks to the Valentine PR and the author for this gifted audiobook - all opinions are my own
Finn and Triona with Callen, Casey and Bran
This book was amazing, from start to finish. The world building, character development, every thing was set up so well. I loved the mythology aspect and how it was interwoven with elemental magic. The bond between all five characters at the center of the story was palpable and that had me emotionally invested in each of them. There were plenty of fun, lighthearted moments as we get to know this group and then, naturally, the seriousness of the plot kicks in and things become very exciting. The romance aspect would definitely be considered a slow burn, but when they finally get going, it was fiery. I knew it was coming…that cliffhanger…I knew, and still it got me right in the heart. The epilogue not only gave me life, but has me on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book.
If you are even remotely interested in audiobooks, this one is not to be missed. The full cast was everything!! June Deborahae Is new to me and I don’t know how I haven’t come across her before. Her tone was so melodic by itself, but you could feel the passion come across in her performance. I will be on the lookout for more. I could not have picked a better cast of male narrators to accompany her. Every one of them already had a spot on my list, but more so after this audio.
I highly recommend listening to this now and, like I will be doing, re-listening before the next one comes out. I have a feeling it’s one of those books that’ll be better each time you listen.
This is such an incredible start to the series. It has everything you could want in an epic romance fantasy. Prophecies, hidden identities, unknown magic, destinies, and fates entwined and a fated love with all the slow burn and yearning you could want. I absolutely loved every single character and the intense sense of family and resilient loyalty.
This was so beautifully written it was easy to fall completely into the story. The FMC is so strong and sassy, and I just loved her so much. The cliffhanger ending has me in shambles currently and I desperately need to know what happens next!
This book is SO good. At first it was slow for me but it picked up and I was hooked! The Scottish/Irish dialect was done so well! Triona is one bad a s s. I loved her! And I loved the connection between the siblings, also the found family aspect! This fantasy romance was written so well. I didn’t see some of the twist coming! I can’t wait for book 2 now.
How could I possibly describe this book? fantastical, romantic, heart-breaking, inspiring, and ultimately it feels like coming home in a way. The Violet Raven starts off by laying the foundation for an action-packed super fun book series, I cannot rave enough about how when you are reading, it feels like you’re getting a great big hug from characters that quickly become special. You can feel the emotion and tension radiating off the pages making us more invested than anything else.
Star’s writing style is amazing! the amount of description used for any which scene is perfect and sets the scene rather well ❤️😊 The characters have soo much heart that its difficult not to root for them as they go about their journey, seeing their dedication for each other is incredibly refreshing and makes my own heart long for the dedication and commitment that they have for each other.
Tri is a spit-fire, in the take no nonsense, gentle kind of way. She is by far the most well developed character in the book (obvi), but she stays true to her kind nature throughout the ups and downs of her story. Her and Finns relationship is one for the history books! DAMN! . His dedication and love for Tri made me tear up on more than one occasion ⛓️💥, his love for her is so deep that it has rooted out all selfishness and replaced the gaps with a need for her happiness and survival. Never have I seen such a love-sick and dedicated man come to life in the most gentle and green-flag manner.
I wait with eager anticipation for the next instalment 🌸✨
Many thanks to Victory Editing & NetGalley for a copy. All above opinions are uniquely my own.
An interesting take on Irish mythology combined with historical romance!
So much character building, which you’ll see in most of the book. It really picks up story/action-wise toward the second half. It may seem off or confusing but it definitely comes together.
The ending will leave you on a cliffhanger and desperate for the next part of the story! The ending 😭
I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next in the series!
ARC review of The Violet Raven Release date: 27 May 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
THIS BOOK BROKE ME.
The world building, character development, the twists and history within were written so well. The slow burn, the tension, the fate, the love were all imbedded in the story. Each character had a personality and it was consistent throughout, leaving a mark. It was heavy, funny, full of banter, teasing, strong found family.
I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for book two! I need to know what happens to Catriona and Finnis (and everyone else) PLEASE 😭😭
Thank you to the author, E. E. Star, for gifting me this eARC. You have written incredibly! All opinions in this review are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️.5 The Violet Raven by E.E. Star Available in Hardback, Paperback and Kindle (KU)
✨Happy release day to this amazing story!!!!
✨This story left me shattered in the best way I can’t say enough about this book. This is a historical fantasy based in 1823 created around Irish mythology. A prophecy come to pass, lives twisted by fate to intertwine at just the right moments in time.
✨Fall in love with these characters as they embark on an epic adventure to save their world. The perfect mix of friends to lovers, comic relief, brooding men, a badass fmc, mystery and secrets.
✨This book had me laughing, crying, giggling and kicking my feet. I cannot recommend it enough!!!
✨Check the trigger warnings!!🫶🏻🫶🏻
✨Blurb: The Raven Queen awaits. Who will rise up and answer the call?
1823
Triona Sinclair was never meant for an ordinary life.
A spark of something powerful has always lived within her-silent and still, until the moment it finally woke.
A moment of fire and ruin.
With her world shattered, Triona escapes into the wilds of Scotland-flanked by four allies, each loyal in their own way.
But none of them challenge her quite like Finn MacGregor.
Her fiercest defender. The one who’s always been there-in shadows and in silence-and wanted her long before she ever looked his way. A bond as sure as the stars.
But fate is written with ink no one can rewrite.
Hunted for a power she doesn’t yet understand, Triona must seek allies in a world brimming with myth and memory. Survival is no longer enough.
A buried magic is calling.
To protect her world and the people she loves, she must decide if she can embrace the destiny that calls to her.
No matter the cost.
The Violet Raven is the thrilling beginning of the Warriors of the Raven Queen series. It’s perfect for fans of dark fantasy, slow-burn forbidden romance, and epic hero’s journeys.
Readers who love Outlander, The Last Kingdom, A Discovery of Witches, and The Lord of the Rings will be captivated by this sweeping blend of historical romance and fantasy, where cultural heritage collides with otherworldly forces. With its mature romance, intimate storytelling, and rich tapestry of history and myth, The Violet Raven promises an unforgettable journey into a world of magic, destiny, and love.
The Violet Raven (btw, I keep trying to say “Violent Raven”…and it may be a Freudian slip 🫣😮💨) is a beautifully written historical romance that is also an epic adventure filled with dangers and questions left unanswered. It makes sense to me though; this is book 1 and wow does it ever lay a foundation that begs to be built upon. When I say that it is an epic adventure…listen, I mean that not only is there a dangerous quest, there is so much lore and magic and world building. You need to be okay with that! I believe that the author is building something here that will only take wings and fly in the coming books. The slow burn. My gosh. Not only the romance, but also the plot. Wow. 🔥 There is open door, descriptive spice (with dirty talk!) so I would rate 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ 4/5 chili peppers. I fell in love with these characters and I swear the author better patch up my broken heart before this thing ends 🥹😉😘 If you love Scottish and Irish lore and folktales, found family, epic adventures, slow burn romance, and generally having your heart broken (just kidding…kind of) then you will enjoy this book!! 🤍 Thank you to the author and to Blush Audiobook Promotions for the ALC of The Violet Raven. This review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. Speaking of that though, guys…if you like an audiobook please, I’m begging you, please check out this audiobook!! It’s duet narration and the narrators did an incredible job! I don’t have highlights to share yet though because I haven’t figured out how to note my highlights while listening, lol. I’ll update my review once I’ve combed through the book and highlighted till my hearts content.
Thank you, E. E. Star and Starlette Publishing, for an ARC of this book.
I was very excited to get an early copy of this book, because fantasy/romantasy is my chosen genre of choice right now. I was a little confused at first, because it seemed to be more of a romance and less of a fantasy at first. But the fantasy aspects were there, and the story was enjoyable.
What I liked:
Triona - our FMC and the heart of the story. Everything in the story sets her up as someone more important than she is aware of. She's feisty and determined. But she's more than that. She is a genuinely good person. She wants the best for everyone around her. When the bad things happen, her reactions are authentic and relatable.
Finn - our MMC. He is so in love with Triona and it is so easy for everyone else to see it, including the reader. Of course, he's clueless, but that's just part of his charm. He is Triona's biggest supporter. He's loyal, charming, and a good match for Triona
All of the side characters - I could really list each character. They were all realistic, relatable, and had flaws and quirks. It would have been easier to make them all one dimensional, but the author chose to make them all more complex. Granted, we get to know some more than others, but that's how most stories are.
This story was pretty solid, overall. There was less of a fantasy feel and more of a romance feel. But towards the end, the author really started to open up the fantasy side of the story. The ending definitely set up a second book. It could have moved a bit faster in the beginning to get to that fantasy part and ending. But it did not drag and overwhelm you with a lot of details that didn't seem necessary to the story. I wish Goodreads would let us do half stars, because this is definitely between 4 and 5 stars for me.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wow! How do you leave us like that? Excuse meeeeeeeee...book two pleaseeeeeeeee! I fell in love with the characters and the world created within this book. The story is so detailed and gives a complete build up to all the relationships, characters, and the creatures in this book. You really get a grasp for who each of them are, and I LOVE the banter with the minor characters and relationships that develop. They lead you to have so many good thoughts! Triona Sinclair and Finn MacGregor, oh my lanta. Everyone should wait for a love like Finn. Just saying. Finn's ability to stay back and allow Triona to take the lead is absolutely amazing. Triona is a strong woman who breaks societal norms.
A beautifully written, detailed world building, high fantasy, with a slow burn romance story that will have you BEGGING for it to finally light 🔥
-He falls first -Slow burn -Irish Mythos & Folklore -Best friends sister -Dual POV -Found family -Soul bound
From page one I was hooked, not only for the story itself, and the quest Triona finds herself on- but for the abundance of Irish mythos and folklore! I did have to refer to the glossary often, but that at no time made it feel any less for me! I just grew a better understanding with it- and found myself talking in my head with an awful Irish accent! Ha!
There are some twists and turns in the plot I did not see coming, but absolutely loved!
Overall, such an amazingly solid start to a series- I can’t wait for book 2! The cliffhanger is BRUTAL, and will have you begging for more pages.
All the stars for Star! This epic fantasy should be on everyone's list. The yearning is top-tier. The world-building is epic. The storytelling is masterful. I need more.
This made me feel all the emotions, and the end was an emotional rollercoaster.
The audiobook was perfectly cast and if June doesn't win all the awards for her performance in this, it will be a crime. She perfectly encapsulated Triona's strength. Her accent was perfect and her acting was incredible. Every actor in this was wonderful. All the guys, James, John, JF, and Robert did an amazing job bringing this tale to life.
I was lucky enough to get an early copy of the audio, which was absolutely AMAZING!!! Having different voices for all the main characters made it so much easier to follow.
Now it’s slated as a Romantasy, I would say if you are a hardcore fantasy reader, be prepared that the fantasy part really only comes in at the tail end, it’s very romance heavy and story/character building for the most part. Hoping book 2 takes us more down the magic route now that the foundation has been set!
Overall it was such a good book, the character development is so great, not just for the FMC and MMC, but also those that go along the journey with them. Strong family ties and characters with real morals
First of all thank you to the author, Hello Blush and Naughty Nook PR for gifting me this ALC and ARC copies of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. The Violet Raven is a masterfully crafted, prophecy-driven epic fantasy that transports readers to a richly detailed world. This beautifully written narrative weaves together a complex tapestry of found family, slow-burn romance, magical quests, and high-stakes danger. The characters are relatable and endearing, with compelling and complex growth and development. While the story is long, it expertly balances plot threads, though a few elements that I would love if it could have been further explored. The emotional depth and heart-wrenching moments are expertly woven throughout, making for a truly a magical and emotional read. The cliffhanger ending sets the stage for an even more thrilling sequel, which I'm very much excited about.
From the time she was little, Triona’s parents didn’t treat her like an average girl in the Scottish Highlands, giving her training and education often reserved for men, ensuring she was able to not only defend herself, but think independently. Forced to leave everything she’s ever known behind when her world shatters, Triona will have to decide who to trust, outside of the four allies travelling with her. Finn escaped a horrible childhood to be taken in by Triona’s family years ago. Despite his closeness with her older brother, he has never been able to deny the pull Triona has towards him. Always the first to defend her, and her closest confidant, he longs to be more.
I received an early copy of the audiobook, and really enjoyed it. The book took a little bit to get into because of all the characters and backstories, which is the only reason I didn’t give it five stars, but once it gets going, I was hooked.
I really loved the introduction of mythology into what would otherwise appear to be a historical romance, it gave the story that extra kick that made it more authentic than fantastical. The different layers that keep being uncovered the deeper into the story you get, just leave you waiting to see what will happen next.
Finn was probably the most relatable character, right from the beginning his feelings for Triona clearly guide his every action, and their connection is undeniable. I can’t wait for the next instalment in this story.
This was a beautiful historical fiction with love, family, secrets, betrayal and magic all perfectly written to take you on a journey. We follow Triona, her family and her found family. This immersive world take you on a journey that is throws these characters from the world they knew into a world they didn't know existed. Discover the secrets as they tell a story of magic, love and the fight between Good and Evil. CANNOT wait for book 2.
A cozy audio read! What a lovely masterpiece, the Scottish accent narration gave way to a perfect blend and a brilliant plot filled novel!
“The Raven Queen awaits. Who will rise up and answer the call?” ~ E.E. Star
Triona Sinclair (FMC), the green eyed beauty with a wild heart, thats always possessed an innate power lying dormant within her. When one day it’s finally unleashed,a moment of unyielding clarity and devastation, as she is hunted down for a power, that she doesn't yet understand.
As Triona embarks on a dangerous journey into the unknown with Finn MacGregor (MMC), her loyal protector, as he stands steadfastly by her side their bonds unshakeable as the stars, yet fate's course is immutable. Dealt some deep losses, shifting her life in unspeakable ways, Guarded, with a calm silence, she forges forward. Highlighting a slow burn forbidden romance and descriptive storytelling with a magic promising a fated future on the horizon.
This was a fantasy full of myth and magic,touched by darker elements, evoking a journey through a world of wonder. An epic hero's journeys, of fate, and devotion. If you vibe with stories such as the Outlander or A Discovery of Witches, you'll be hooked on this wild mix of historical romance and fantasy.
E.E. Star knew what she was doing when she wrote this story. This story is about family, friends, and love. So many secrets come to the forefront and set her and her family on a path that will change everything they know and love. Triona comes home from school to be met by a love interest that she shows no liking to. In enters Finn. Finn is the best friend and crush she has had for her as long as she can remember. Throughout the book, there is so much banter. I laughed at the interactions between Finn and Bran. Casey and Cal her brothers who would hurt anything and anyone who would dare hurt their sister. When her world shatters and throws everything into disarray the family has to make a decision that will change Tri's path and where she goes from this point. They are set on a mission of to find answers to questions asked before they travel. I loved this story. Again I laughed and cried. I got mad at the people who want to hurt them. I felt my heart break for Triona when events happen only to respect her for the strength and bravery she has and will face in the story to come. The narrators were absolutely amazing.
This story *historical romance *fierce FMC * Protective MMC *magic *slow-burn *prophecy *forbidden love
This was a beautifully written romantasy that drew me in from the first chapter.
Set in Scotland and Ireland, this story follows Triona as she discovers that there’s much more to her than she grew up believing and that she and her friends must embark on an epic adventure to protect her world.
This is read in full cast duet style narration which was absolutely brilliant. All Scottish/Irish characters are voiced by British narrators which definitely helps to heighten the immersive listening. The narrator were all fantastic and I felt the characters’ personalities shine through their reading.
There is a ton of world building and character development, to the point that the action doesn’t really start until about 2/3 through the book. So just know going into this that it’s a long, slow ride, but still very enjoyable. There’s a slow-burn, it’s-always-been-you romance, a great “found family” aspect, and plenty of suspense in the form of a prophecy that is revealed later on in the story. There is a pretty brutal cliffhanger ending though, so be warned!
Thank you to E.E. Star and Blush Audio for providing a copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review. 🩷
Violet Raven absolutely pulled me in. The narration was incredible on the audiobook, it was emotional, engaging, and perfectly matched to the story’s tone. The world building was so immersive I could picture everything playing like a movie in my head.
I love an epic fantasy, and this one had such strong potential with its Celtic mythology and prophecy elements. I do wish there had been more consistent magic woven throughout - both the romance and the magic are slow burns. The FMC leaned a bit too much toward the damsel side for my taste, but I’m really hoping she comes into her own in book two.
Overall, a beautifully written, emotional story with vivid imagery, strong narration, and a lot of heart. Can’t wait to see where the sequel takes it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5 📚ARC REVIEW📚 Thank you so much for letting me get an early preview to this book and be a part of the ARC team!
So we have Irish lore that actually has substance and is not just window dressing, a slow-burn fated mate romance so intense I was physically unwell, and intricate relationships between all of the main characters. I couldn’t put this book down.
My only actual qualm (after fully finishing the book I understand why) but the weird “we’re celebrating YOU” storyline around Triona when she was literally just a girl?? It kinda threw me in the beginning, but get through that and it’s *chefs kiss*
Let’s talk about Finn. That man is carved from longing and soft glances and repressed feelings that absolutely ruin you. I was feral. He is now permanently installed in my heart.
And Triona??? I LOVED her. She’s powerful and stubborn and so real, and watching her grow into her strength. Piece by piece, heartbreak by heartbreak, her growth is quiet and explosive all at once.
Through the book you get a great mix of fantasy, lore, comedy, spice, familial drama, prophecy, and just general chaos. Such a fun read!