Peacebringer: Orders of the First Family: Book One

by Marie Maness

The orders are in a centuries old war. Hunters chasing demons; witches and shifters at each other’s throats; and the gods long forgotten. Crown Prince Case Sheehan spends his life in the dark – sheltered, neglected, and abused. He can’t control his element, but it doesn't stop him from pushing himself in every training session. His father insists he agree to an arranged marriage - someone who will bring peace to their land.
Isha lives a long and lonely existence, spending her days training and avoiding the political mess around her. However, when King Anu asks her to put herself up for consideration as a potential bride, she reluctantly agrees. She never thought she would be picked, chosen by Prince Case himself. She receives a vision showing he may be the one. The one to end this centuries long battle. Is he the Peacebringer?

469 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2025

About the author

Author Marie Maness is a self published author that specializes in reimagined Mythology with a big helping of spice. Literature, writing, and history have always been her biggest passions. Combining them all into one has been a dream come true for the small town indie author. Born in Central Kentucky, she currently lives in South Central Kentucky with her husband and four children and loves the quiet little town life. Marie hopes her writing will encourage people everywhere to embrace their bodies and sexuality, to find pleasure in all of life’s aspects, and to remember that love is infinite.

Reviews

[Grace Btrs · Rating 5 out of 5]

📱 around 400 messages, 15 times cracking up, 3 discussions about ME food, 13 videos, 8 times of me being so sure of my theories while Marie laughed at me, and freaking out 4 times… I am alive but not too well.🤯

⚡ Welcome to Sumerian Mythology, Urban Fantasy Style 🏛️
where old world meets new, a goddess meets an innocent prince, prophecies fly everywhere, and chaos knock and casually moves in.

👑 Ishtar Reimagined and more
This is a reimagining of Ishtar’s story. But here, she agrees to an arranged marriage with a very sheltered prince.
Isha is modest yet powerful. She doesn’t flaunt her strength, but it’s there, undeniable. She’s wise, deeply caring toward her family, determined to stay on the moral compass… though let’s be honest, she’s got her flaws. She’s possessive, territorial, and you’ll love her all the more for it.

🌙 Our sweet and innocent prince
Case is not your typical MMC. Don’t expect the brooding powerhouse: he’s sheltered, innocent, and yes, you will want to scream at him to grow a backbone. He’s been abused, knocked down, and doesn’t even know how to wield his magic. But he is loyal to the core. He is our Peacebringer.

🌀 Prophecies, Secrets, & Meddling Creatures
Our fated consorts are supposed to usher in peace… or do they? Because when the prophecy starts unraveling, it’s not the only thing flipping lives upside down. Old family secrets, jealousy, meddling witches, shifters, hunters, demons, gods, and of course, our MCs’ own insecurities, threaten to tear everything apart. Their attraction and feelings grow quickly, but just as many root for their success as there are who desperately want them to fail.

🚨 What to expect…
Between the chaos and the charm, you will get scenes and the side characters that will have you laughing, pearl-clutching, and shrieking at least once.
And...... Cliffhanger. Equal parts scream-worthy and giddy-making. So dip your toes into urban magic, steamy dates, tangled prophecies, and a cast of characters you’ll definitely want to either strangle and laugh with.

💬 Behind the Scenes
I had the privilege of being part of this book’s journey, making sure it’s culturally accurate and appropriate, and yes, maybe begging (coercing??) Marie to give us more scenes and moments.

--
Pre-read:
*insert giddy Grace* I have the absolute privilege of beta reading this!
👑 Sheltered Prince
💍 Arranged marriage
❤️‍🔥 Goddess of love and war
⏳ Age gap romance (she's older)
🌶️ Virgin MMC (she teaches him)
⚔️ Centuries-old war
🌙 Sumerian mythology inspired

[Olga Ziminska · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh... my... GODS!
Marie Maness does it again!!
What an amazing start to a new series.

Peacebringer brings Sumerian mythology into the modern stage and wow... WOW!
Case is a fantastic MMC and watching him learn about himself as well as Isha's family is just wonderful. I love a good arranged marriage plot and this was chef's kiss. And the spice? My, my, my, let's just say I am SO excited for book 2! This introduction alone and all the characters who made me laugh, ache, and cry... I can't wait to find out what happens next!

Seriously, if you're interested in mythology, especially Sumerian mythology--you will LOVE this book. It's modern and witty and just so damn delightful.

Bravo Marie! I can't wait to get my shelf trophy!

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie Maness has done it again—Peacebringer is a five-star, can’t-put-it-down read from start to finish.

Case, the Crown Prince of the Hunters, has spent years training for war, yet struggles to wield his elemental magic. Sheltered, abused, and constantly belittled by his father, Case is expected to shoulder the impossible burden of ending a centuries-long war by marrying a demon… or so he believes.

Isha, the Goddess of Love & War, has been hidden away from politics and society for years. When her brother, the King of the Gods, demands she enter an arranged marriage with a hunter, she reluctantly agrees—unaware that the hunters see her kind as demons. Isha wants no part of this union, yet fate has other plans.

As prophecies surrounding Case and Isha begin to unfold, both are forced to confront their magic, their roles in the war, and their growing feelings for each other. Isha helps Case discover his strength, his confidence, and who he’s truly meant to be—the Peacebringer. In turn, Case helps Isha lower her walls and learn how to love again.

These two have major main character energy. Together, they don’t just complement each other—they make each other stronger. Their emotional growth, chemistry, and shared journey completely stole my heart.

And that ending? That cliffhanger? Absolutely devastating. Marie, why would you do this to us?!

I cannot wait for book two.

[Read With Grace White · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all thank you to Marie, the author of this book for gifting me an arc copy and I am reviewing this book voluntarily. I have never read anything to do with Sumerian Mythology but this captivating read reimagines mythology with a fresh modern twist and stunning storytelling. There is an arranged marriage between Prince Case and Isha, whose chemistry is definitely noticeable from the start though they're both unaware of the secrets that will change everything. Case's sheltered upbringing has left him in the dark about the true nature of the Gods and Goddesses, while Isha lives in a world where they're very much alive. As they navigate their relationship, Isha helps Case unlock his hidden potential, and he teaches her to confront her emotions. This beautifully woven tale is a journey of found family, love, magic, and unexpected surprises. I look forward to reading what’s next for those characters.

[Jax · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peacebringer follows Case, prince to the order of Hunters that have been hunting down demons for generations. When he chooses a bride amongst demons to forge peace, he gets more than he bargained for in the best way possible. Isha is a fiery member of the First Family who has denied love after being burned so long ago. She foresees Case’s role in the future and is honored to be by his side. But will duty turn into more? And can they truly face everything coming?

Oh. My. Gosh. I loved Marie’s other works and I couldn’t resist signing up to read this novel. What a tale. I love the way her books are steeped in mythological relations but have their own entire merit from the complexity of the plot and characters. I couldn’t put this down and read well into the night so many times. And the cliffhanger?!? I highlighted over 200 things in this book and I couldn’t recommend it enough. Go read this!!

[Book_it_to_me_baby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great read, mythology with a modern twist and beautiful storytelling.

An "arranged" marriage between Prince Case and Isha. There is something between them right from the start, but what they don't know. Case has been sheltered and lied to his whole life about the Gods and Goddesses still being alive. Isha lives in a world where she knows them to be alive and well. Isha helps Case learn how to harness his power and he helps her realize it's ok to feel again.

Follow this amazing story of found family, love, with magic and twists and turns.

[Tammy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this! Not your typical MMC.

I giggled a few times because of how the author writes but I liked it! Looking forward to book two and plus I need to read more from the author since this was my first book by Marie

- arranged marriage
- sheltered MMC
- bad ass FMC
- virgin MMC
- age gap
- god / goddess
- magic system

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unlike most books I've read, I had to take my time with this one. For 410 pages, there was A LOT of information provided. I feel like if I were to read this book a second time, I would still catch details that may have alluded to the ending of this book and how it sets up for book two.

Things that stuck out to me were the fact that Case was a mortal man yet still had magic. Though he wasn't able to control this magic or use it until Isha came into his life. I feel that Book One was more about the conflicts that were going on between species and how two kingdoms were attempting to bring peace. I also felt that while Case's and Isha's relationship was a plot point, the secondary characters and their actions were what made the book even more interesting.

There were paranormal and mythical beings in this book - witches, demons, shifters, gods, and goddesses. I did feel a bit confused with all the different types of beings. Again, I blame this on all the world-building and introductions of the secondary characters. Despite this, everything was relatively easy to follow.

Some key quotes that I thought were extremely interesting were:

"Arranged marriages are standard amongst nobles and royalty. This will just be the first arranged marriage between hunter and their sworn enemy, a demon."

"Only weak men beat people smaller than them."

"Demons were being targeted in restaurants and taverns, in the markets, and even just walking down the sidewalk in broad daylight."

"A prophecy isn't set in stone. Free will changes things all the time, you know that. Not to mention we weren't exactly sure the source was reliable."

I feel that even though these quotes do tie into the plot and why the book flows the way it does, some of them can allude to why there is conflict. I feel that in the next book Case and his powers will become even more powerful along with his and Isha's relationship. I'm also curious to see what happens with Theo and David. Also curious about Nin, because I feel she will be another key part in book 2 when it comes to peace.

Overall, despite all of the information provided in this book, this book is worth 4 stars. there is some spice, but I would rate it 2/5.

I would recommend this book to those who love world-building and paranormal storylines. I would also recommend this book who want a more thought-provoking book to take their time with. This book does take place in modern times, so those who like contemporary paranormal fiction may also like this book.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC of Peacebringer directly through the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marie Maness artfully blends old and new through characters rooted in Sumerian lore and modern life. The mythology isn’t just dropped into the present — it’s used to highlight the contrasts between the leads themselves, their worlds brushing against each other in smart, subtle ways that make their dynamic feel both fresh and inevitable.

The small details shine here (like our FMC’s confusion over what a “V-card” is — chef’s kiss), reminding you of the culture clash without ever overdoing it. The dual POVs are distinct and natural, giving each character a real voice and personality instead of just swapping pronouns.

And listen… I’m picky about characters. Fantasy or not, they’re still people, and I want them to feel like it. Maness nails that balance — grounded, believable, and layered enough to make you care.

Oh, and bonus points: she actually gives us reasons these two like each other. 🤯 No vague “inexplicable connection,” just chemistry that makes sense.

Peacebringer is thoughtful, well-paced, and surprisingly human for a story that bridges gods and mortals — a strong start to a world I’ll happily spend more time in.

[Ambre · Rating 4 out of 5]

WHEW, the Peacebringer ARC most certainly did NOT bring me peace. Instead, it had me on a roller coaster of emotions and I'm definitely in my feels after that fucking cliffhanger of an ending!!

*THIS REVIEW DEFINITELY CONTAINS SPOILERS*

All hail our gorgeous goddess wifey, Isha! This goddess sends me into a tailspin all the time. I love her duality and her vulnerability, even after centuries of life. And d'awwww, Case is baby and must be protecc always! Also, pretty sure he's got a praise kink. 😏 The spicy times are definitely spicing... 🌶️🔥 OH NO HE DIDN'T, THAT FUCKER!!

*BEWARE ALL YE WHO READ PAST HERE*

I need to know when the next books will be out! I must know what becomes of Nin (of course they'll rescue her), what happens to David, Amara, Theo and the twins, and the rest of the First Family (of course they'll all get HEAs), if and how Isha will ever be able to forgive Case (or course she will), and how they'll destroy those fuckers Dutzi and Kegel (yes, I intentionally misspelled their names because we want them GONE). I am not a patient person, lol, so it's gonna kill me to have to wait.

[Kelsey Anglin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peacebringer had me guessing and on my toes the whole book! Every time I thought I had something figured out, something else came in I didn’t even see coming. The feelings, the love, the fights… I’m obsessed! Marie does such a great job of depicting fighting, training, and special abilities, I feel like I’m there in the moment to watch it all play-by-play. As always, each of these characters have a special place in my heart. Case and Isha are literally to die for, and the side characters… 👀 You never know what’s happening with them! The whole history of Sumerian gods is weaved in with the storyline tremendously.

If you’re open to a new mythology (although it’s the very underrated first mythology 🫠) I highly recommend this book! It was very interesting to see where some of the popular mythology gods and goddesses had origins. Marie made it very easy to follow, and the glossary? That made it so easy to navigate! I love Marie’s work and will be waiting in anticipation of her next!!!

[Carrie R. B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love books inspired by mythology but reimagined in a modern setting, then I highly recommend you check out this book!

I loved the main characters (Case and Isha). I enjoyed the fact that Case was a MMC that wasn’t instantly cocky and confident. He had to learn about himself and grow his character as the story progressed. He was a bit naive but willing to learn. Isha was a wonderful FMC. She is patient and kind despite being extremely wise and powerful. The side characters are wonderful as well and add some fun and humorous moments throughout.

This book features an arranged marriage, magical abilities, mythology in a modern setting, prophecies, and lovable characters. The story is plot driven, but also has a sweet love story with a decent amount of spice. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, so I’ll be anxious to continue the story in future books. I highly recommend you add this one to your TBR!

I was provided a copy of this book. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Barbara Schoonover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beta read/Arc Read

I am so glad that I discovered this author, from the TT algorithm knowing exactly what I like I joined a wonderful group of ladies to beta read Marie's newest book series. And might I just say it was one heck of a roller coaster. Sumarian mythology rolled into current day with a look at the way love can sneak up on a person. Prophecies are always changing and not everything is what you might think. Taking the time to explore cultures and dynamics that are in effect even in today's world Marie is wonderfully adept at pulling you into the world of her books. But be prepared our wonderful author loves a good Cliff hanger and this one may leave you screaming at the book or staring at a wall. There are twists and turns you won't see coming and an underlying journey to self discovery and self confidence that will bring a tear to your eye. I can't wait to see what Marie has planned even if she rips my heart out in the process.

[GabbyReyesBarrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Amazing beginning of this series! I am so happy I was accepted into the ARC team for Peacebringer because the story is absolutely stunning.

The way that the author was able to incorporate Sumerian Mythology into an urban setting was fantastic and I love loveeeeeee the protagonists of this story.

We follow Isha, who is a powerful Goddess nonetheless, and she agrees to an arranged marriage with the heir of a wolf shifter clan.

The tropes are then reversed by having a male protagonist, who is shy and doesn't have the most experience with women, but Case wants to be a good partner and a better king for his clan than his father currently is.

I adored this story and I'm hopeful, and I cannot wait to see what happens on book two. The only reason I'm giving it 4.5 stars is because there were a couple of things that I predicted were going to happen, especially towards the ending, but the story and the characters are captivating

[Randi F · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a re-imagining of Sumerian mythology. I honestly know nothing about it, but I love the story. This actually makes me want to do some research into it! I love the reverse tropes in this! She has black cat energy, he's got golden retriever energy. She's the first to show protective touch him and die energy. She trains him to use his element. He's a sheltered and abused prince, she's the Goddess of Love and War. Case really starts to come into his own by the end. He starts off being shy and unsure of himself, but gains confidence a little at a time. This story is fast paced and does have quite a bit of information, but it is the first book. So that's something I genuinely expect. I can't wait to see what the rest of this series has in store for us, especially after that Cliffhanger. That was a total WTF moment. Oh! And there is a decent amount of open door spice. Which is a plus for me.

[Riley McDaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Slight spoilers, nothing major*

It was fascinating to read a book that explores Sumerian Mythology, which I had not heard of before this. Very easy to follow along and learn as you go. I had exams and quizzes to study for, literally had to pry myself away from the book. The last 10% of the book had me on the edge of my seat, and what a cliffhanger. Definitely can’t wait for the next book!

I love how it’s sort of reversed from most books, she is thousands of years older than him (he’s 25), tiny but mighty FMC, virgin MMC, she teaches him how to use his magic, she’s a goddess/he’s a crown prince, she’s trying to resist their connection while he embraces it, possessive FMC = “touch him and die/he’s MINE” 😍

Tropes/themes: arranged marriage, prophecy

Songs that remind me of this book:
~DiE by Ella Boh & Ellise
~Golden Age by Janani K. Jha
~Yours by Bookish Songs Collective

[TeeDub & SheDub · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peacebringer is a story that takes Sumerian mythology, reimagines it, and puts it into a modern world.

It begins with an arranged marriage between the prince of hunters, Case, and Isha, who he thinks is a demon. The hope is that their union will help bring peace between the hunters and the demons.

Isha is a badass and Case is totally adorable, but he has no idea how powerful he really is or the truth about…well, a few things. Isha is going to help him figure it out though, all while her and case navigate traditions, family issues, what their marriage and future roles are going to look like while, and some quickly evolving feelings between the two of them.

I don’t want to say too much more, but I really enjoyed this book. I love the characters, especially Isha, Theo, and Utu, and I am excited for the future books in the series.

[Maggie Berggren · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY...... If you haven't got a clue what to read next... here it is!

✨️ The Peacebringer from Marie Maness✨️

This is a story who takes you through the sumerian mythology with an epic twist.

You'll follow the main characters, Case and Isha, their adventure with magic and royal hierarchy.
Their story is a love story I won't ever forget, and you'll definitely want to read this if you like great banter and riveting smut!
If you like mythology and magic, a sense of family and understanding.. this book is definitely for you!

This series will continue from the mindblowing cliffhanger onto another book in 2026! So be sure to read this ASAP and make sure this series is on your TBR!

✨️ Tropes ✨️

🌸 Arranged marriage
🌸 Found Family
🌸 Demons
🌸 God and Godesses
🌸 Magic
🌸 Shifters
🌸 LGBTQ+

And last but not least..

Smut 🥵🥰

🌶🌶🌶🌶/ 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

[Tiffani Farmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

-arranged marriage
-virgin mmc
-demons
-magic
-golden retriever/black cat
-spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
-reimagined mythology

Marie always captures all the details in what makes her characters themselves. They unfold so beautifully in front of you that you will truly feel like you know them. You will love them, form bonds, argue with some and even LOATHE some. *cough cough* Bitchlan! iykyk 😆
And, if you are a spice lover you're in for a treat as Marie is the QUEEN of spice! She will have you feral and your significant others or battery operated help exhausted!
10000000/10 will recommend every book she writes because of all the time and love she pours into them. I can't believe that I have such the honor of being a part of her street team and a beta reader.

[Kristen Moran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love Love Love it. Gods, Goddesses, Demigod, mortal, all of it in one book. The realism to the myths of the Sumerian gods and how Marie managed to incorporate it into a realistic world setting was absolutely fantastic.

Case, prince of the hunters, and the Peacebringer to the wars. Isha... well, you'll find out just who she is. They are to be married in an arranged marriage, a marriage where they thought feelings of love wouldn't exist. But my God's, when the spice hits, it hits just right.

Marie builds an amazing story with characters you learn to love and characters you learn to hate. Each one has a special power different from the others. It's an absolutely amazing story with a cliffhanger that makes me wanna jump.

[Rope Bound Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh! Please allow me to jump off the cliffhanger ending again and again. So freaking worth it and I already cannot wait for the next book!

It was refreshing to have the FMC be the ageless immortal in the age gap and the exploration of a new (to me) magic system is always a delight. The world building is beautifully done with an interwoven tapestry of mythology and modern day.

Case is a golden retriever trying to be a black cat and growing into a bit of a Doberman MMC - iykyk. The banter, chemistry, and spice between he and Isha is *chefs kiss*. Isha is the black cat FMC that doesn't trust easily and honestly should she?

Verdict is out on that one but I am 1000% subscribing to the journey of figuring that out.

[Katie Switzer-Coyle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Here is a hidden gem of a book. I absolutely loved it. It's very much a fantasy Romance and just a great love story. If you thought Milo and Kitara were the perfect couple, you'll love Case and Isha. And all of their story is surrounded by Persian mythology which has been my favorite mythology to learn more about. Case needs to be high on the book boyfriend list. Sweet and shy, he's not your typical shadow daddy book boyfriend, but rather the one we all really want. Isha is a badass goddess that balances power with compassion and you can't help but love her. And the surprise villain makes it all so much better. My only complaint is that it ended and I want to know what comes next.

[BookDragon_ KSC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Here is a hidden gem of a book. I absolutely loved it. It's very much a fantasy Romance and just a great love story. If you thought Milo and Kitara were the perfect couple, you'll love Case and Isha. And all of their story is surrounded by Persian mythology which has been my favorite mythology to learn more about. Case needs to be high on the book boyfriend list. Sweet and shy, he's not your typical shadow daddy book boyfriend, but rather the one we all really want. Isha is a badass goddess that balances power with compassion and you can't help but love her. And the surprise villain makes it all so much better. My only complaint is that it ended and I want to know what comes next.

[Leslie Garcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid 4.25 ⭐️ Read 2.5🌶️ Level

Where to begin, I devoured this book! The plot of this book was amazing. The world building was on point. Amazing characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. No to mention the twists that comes out of nowhere.

Then, the emotions that this book evokes …has no words. You don’t know if want to protect, yell, slick your hair back, or fall in love.

Oh that he darn cliffhanger… left me with messaging the author “WTH with that ending”. Apparently, that is a common response. 🤣

Overall, a phenomenal book that gives you a wonderful experience. I did not want to leave this amazing world behind. Looking forward to book two. 😉❤️

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved that this book odds about some lesser known mythology. I knew nothing about it going into it, but it was very easy to follow the story.

The FMC is a total badass and I love her. I adore the reverse trope of the virgin, innocent and naive MMC. Case is just so likeable.

The story is compelling and you never know exactly who to trust. I, in general, hate reading cliffhangers when a series isn’t finished, and I can’t just go on to the next book, but I knew this going into it and that is entirely a me problem.

So that said, I am desperately awaiting the next book so I can get some answers.

[FN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leave it to Marie to craft another phenomenal story where deities meet the modern magical world! This time, we follow a young, innocent MMC and a thousand-year-old, reserved goddess who avoided political affairs. But fate intertwines their paths through an arranged marriage and a prophecy. The twists are definitely twisting! Surrounded by loyal friends and loved ones, the story highlights the MMC’s growth and self-discovery beautifully. I love the side characters who offered warmth, humor, and support throughout. And that ending?!?! I’m already eager for the next book. I received this as an ARC and very grateful for it.

[Mikki K · Rating 3 out of 5]

Grateful to have had the opportunity to ARC read this interesting book as it gave me a look into a different world of mythology. This read was a little difficult to catch the pace on, it started a little slow for me to get into and then it would speed up here and there. I did enjoy the building of Case’s character and the elements of mystery. The ending leaves you ready for more and I’m glad to know there is more to come! The romance had a good mixture of cheese, yearning, and spice. There’s also a wonderful range of representation in this piece that I believe is much needed and many will love!

[Zoey Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh, I absolutely devoured this book and don’t know how i’m supposed to wait until the next one comes out. Marie has done it again. I am absolutely obsessed with Isha and Case and I cannot wait to read more of their story. I didn’t have much knowledge of Sumerian Mythology going into this book and now I feel the need to do research to learn more. It’s safe to say i’m obsessed with this book, and need the next in the series asap, bc that cliff hanger was insane.

[Brett Tourscher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh yesss Marie!! You did it once again!!😍😍

I had the privilege of ARC reading this, in exchange for my HONEST review…

So here’s some honesty…

I loved it! SO much..!!! The banter, the characters, the story… a chefs kiss!

I was never a huge fantasy lover until I picked up Marie’s novels! They have forever changed me!

If you haven’t yet read her first series, The Final Goddess Trilogy… you NEED to! And you NEED to read this one ASAP starting Nov 1st!!

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing storyline and character building. Another amazing book by THE amazing Marie Maness. Plot driven, all the feels, spice 🥵, and a sexy mmc (his best friend is great too), one strong badass fmc! I was fortunate enough to be a beta and arc reader of this amazing book and I can't wait until the rest of the world gets sucked into this book like I did. HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! *This is the first book of the series*