Because the Beasts Came

Wells of Istri #1

by Madeline James

She's already broken, but this mission may be what shatters her.

A young guardian bearing the burden of a kingdom torn to shreds, Iryana works tirelessly from the shadows to keep her clan's outpost standing. After the beasts ravaged the lands and the gangs claimed what was left, the survivors can only cling to the scattered settlements, fighting desperately to hold their borders.

But they're losing.

Her clan’s only hope lies beyond their brittle the ancient magic of the metal-wells, and the ruthless military gangs that control them. Iryana has no choice but to infiltrate a nearby brigade, earn their volatile trust, and see her magic forged in one of their closely guarded wells.

Unfortunately, surviving among liars and killers proves to be harder and more mystifying than expected.

Their cruel and calculating leader sees value in her when no one else does. The bitter soldier with haunted eyes and a devastating smile wants her gone but can’t seem to stop saving her life. As each passing day brings her deeper within the brigade, two devastating paths forward present themselves and her deep-rooted cracks become impossible to conceal.

Iryana came to the fortress to save her family—she never expected someone would try to save her.

Perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdom and The Serpent & The Wings of Night, Because the Beasts Came is the first book in a romantic fantasy duology within the Wells of Istri world. Full of aching tension, a brutal world of monsters and fragile hope, and a heroine torn between duty, desire, and survival, you won't be able to put this book down.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance

630 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 9, 2026

Reviews

[ੈ♡‧₊˚ Thais · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and author Madeline James for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest thoughts. I’m so glad I got to read it. 💖

⁂⋆⁺⋆ ⸼ ⁂⁂⋆⁺⋆ ⸼ ⁂⁂⋆⁺⋆ ⸼ ⁂

🌙 Review: Because the Beasts Came: A Dark Romantic Fantasy - by Madeline James
𓍊𓋼𓍊 3.5 ☆

🗡 Update (03/11/25)

❝Why keep clawing for a place in the world, when you already have one in mine?❞

──── ☾ ✦ ────

⟡ When we pick up a military fantasy, we expect those epic battles, magic everywhere, and terrifying monsters in the forest, right? And yes, the author delivers all of that with the dakii and the ruthless 18th Brigade. But look, what really kept me hooked to the pages wasn't just the clashing of swords, it was the way the book deals with trauma and survival.

⟡ Starting with our protagonist, Iryana. Her journey is nothing like that "chosen one" story we've seen a thousand times. I loved the fact that the author didn't deliver that generic heroine who is born knowing everything and is super self-confident. Iryana is a girl who is literally broken and full of scars. She carries a lot of guilt from tragedies in her past, and her main defense mechanism is simply isolating herself. Following her evolution, discovering her own worth and facing her internal demons, was really good. She isn't strong because she has no fear; she's strong because she goes into the fight even while trembling from head to toe. And I found it interesting how the author mixed this internal pain of hers with the magic of the world itself.

╭─ ✦ What stole my heart: ✦ ─╮

⟡ The character dynamics completely avoid the clichés. That tension between Iryana, Pyetar, and Karvek isn't a basic love triangle; it's a mirror of how we deal with super toxic environments. (Note: It's not that type of triangle that many people dislike (including myself) where the character actually doesn't know who she's going to end up with, you know? You can tell from the beginning who her partner will be... Which for me was great!)

⟡ Then comes Pyetar. Oh, Pyetar... 🥺 He has that whole brigade "executioner" vibe, the scary, giant, and always grumpy guy. But beneath all that armor, he is incredibly vulnerable. What grabbed me the most about him was his constant internal struggle: he is trapped in a bad environment, under the command of cruel people, but actively chooses not to be swallowed by it. The way he tries to protect Iryana (even when she doesn't want it) and how he respects her really warms our hearts. He is the authentic grumpy with a soft spot that we love, but with a lot of substance.

⟡ And on the flip side, we have Karvek. (Why be so evil, huh? He's got the sauce, but you can't be with a complete madman, right?) Who was a well-written villain. He is the pure essence of toxicity. Karvek doesn't just want military power; he wants to dominate people's minds. The way he manipulates, how he pretends to care just to use others as pawns in his game. The contrast between him and Pyetar is living proof that our environment doesn't define who we are, but rather our choices. Karvek chose to embrace chaos and cruelty, and watching his mind operate was interesting... (Machiavellian? Definitely, but what if he had salvation, right?)

⟡ And the evolution of the magic in this book? The process of being 'forged' is really cool to follow! It's not just gaining powers out of nowhere with a wave of a magic wand. To get her magic, Iryana is forced to face her worst pains and traumas. It's a curious metaphor because it shows that true power comes from accepting the pain, learning to flow with life's challenges, and turning our pain into strength.

╭─ ✦ 📉 What left me wanting more: ✦ ─╮

⟡ Changing the subject a bit and talking about the setting, the worldbuilding of Istri is another detail that is definitely worth mentioning. The author created a dark military fantasy atmosphere that is super immersive; we can feel the danger and the constant tension every time the characters step outside the gates to face the dakii. The dynamic of the guardian clans and the strict system of the Brigades bring a very interesting cultural richness to the story.

⟡ However, since the narrative focuses almost exclusively on the dynamics inside the Fort and the surrounding forests, the scope of this universe ends up feeling a little restricted and claustrophobic in this first volume. We hear about the Duchess, the Commander King, and all the greater politics that govern the continent, but these pieces remain very much in the background. I felt that this political part and the geography of the world could have been explored a bit more to give an even more epic dimension to the conflict, leaving that taste that the universe is giant, but we only saw a small fraction of it.

⟡ In the middle of the book, the story drags a bit. Iryana's routine at the Fort, the patrols, and all that investigation into the Beast's Poppy drug underworld end up getting a little repetitive and the tension cools down.

⟡ Besides that, some secondary characters, like Vaneshta and Lidishta, could have been better explored. They mostly serve to push Iryana forward, but they lacked that extra depth for us to really suffer for them when chaos ensues at the end.

─── ୨୧ ⋆ ୨୧ ───

⟡ Because the Beasts Came is an intense debut. It shows that the worst monsters aren't the ones with claws and teeth, but cruel people with power. Iryana reminds us that being strong isn't about not having fear, it's about going to the fight even when trembling with dread. And honestly? I can't wait for the next book to see what she's going to do with all this power!

ʚ♡ɞ with love, Thais

─── ୨୧ ⋆ ୨୧ ───

˚₊‧ ୨ 𝒫𝓇𝑒-𝓇𝑒𝒶𝒹 ୧ ‧₊˚ I started this book with certain expectations and a lot of curiosity about how the author will build this narrative. I’m especially paying attention to the character development and the way the plot unfolds — hoping it will be engaging and well-structured. ☕

[Loren Butters · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW! ✨

I enjoyed this story a lot high fantasy has great world building and iryana was a solid FMC I felt connected to her you could tell the author really cared for these characters and this world ! The author did such a good job keeping me engaged in the story I highly recommend this book! 🖤

[Fedythereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to the author and the publisher, Spellbound Worlds, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley !!!

“I’ve bled for this fort just like you had … And I’m not going anywhere. So you can either keep trying to shove me out, or start dealing with the fact that I’m not yours to order around”

This book was one of the BEST fantasy I have read in a while. I loved it. I’m in love with it. Innovative. Original. Enchanting. Powerful. Magical. Painful. Hopeful. Wonderfully human and not. I’m speechless. And I wish I could find more appropriate words to describe just the impact it had on me. Iryana’s story felt tragical in its beauty. Hopeless and yet still with a little bit of hope. Loveless and yet with such tender caring. Strong and yet so painfully damaged. She is the tormented character in the book. She is the badass warrior we all want to be. But she is also a little girl, estranged from her family for reasons we know nothing about who is desperately looking for acceptance and approval. She wants to belong and don’t we all?
We want to be part of something and following her along in this journey felt so incredibly easy to relate to, despite this being a fantasy book.
Such originality in the action a the magical system. I would say that it’s a character’s dynamic fans of Shadow and Bone will love. But with a darker tone. And the sprinkle of romance in there … to die for!! Absolutely brilliant!! I genuinely need book two now !!!

“We’re both stuck here … and neither of us want a war”

“Why keep clawing for a place in the world, when you already have one in mine?”

[ChokeholdByFiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨️ ARC Review ✨️

This is a deeply layered high fantasy with rich worldbuilding and a genuinely unique magic system. You can tell how much thought went into crafting the world. It feels expansive, detailed and intentional. That said, because of the depth, the pacing can feel a little uneven. Some sections are action packed and gripping, while others slow down to allow the reader to absorb important details.
My only real complaint would be the ending. After such beautiful build up and emotional investment, it felt slightly rushed. The victory deserved just a little more space to breathe and unfold in detail. But that’s just my personal take. 🤷🏼‍♀️🤗
Iryana, our FMC, is wonderfully written. She’s strong yet deeply broken and that balance makes her incredibly relatable. You genuinely root for her. Not just in her quest to save her family, but in her journey of healing from past trauma. Her character development is one of the strongest elements of the book. And it’s always refreshing when the FMC doesn’t fully depend on the MMC to save her. I’m a sucker for a warrior heroine, and while she does receive help at times, she can absolutely handle herself.💪🏼💅
The side characters also felt real. Every person, major or minor, had purpose, backstory and a reason to be there. That’s something I really appreciate in high fantasy.
And the slow burn… the tension, the yearning. 🔥 It simmers beautifully in the background without overpowering the main plot.
If you love intricate worldbuilding, strong warrior FMCs and slow burn tension woven into a thoughtful high fantasy, this is worth picking up.

[Olivia Caggiano · Rating 5 out of 5]

How MJ managed to fit a journey and plot worthy of several books into one amazes me - it was a complete epic quest in one novel, and there’s still another book!

MJ gave just enough information that I was continuously curious and hooked to learn more about the world of Istri. Like any great fantasy series, she did a wonderful job giving us a full, cohesive plot with just enough hints that the world is so much bigger than we’ve seen - with larger issues and quests to discover in the next book.

It had all of the elements of my favorite fantasy series while still being so incredibly unique. If you liked the fast-paced plot of Fourth Wing, the battles and challenges in A Court of Thorns and Roses, the slow burn of The Serpent And The Wings Of Night and the resilience and cleverness of Aelin in Throne of Glass - this is the book for you!

My personally favorite thing about BTBC is the major theme of healing trauma. I always loved Chaol’s arc in TOD and Nesta’s in ACOSF - sometimes you find their perspective and behaviors frustrating, but you get a deep look at why they are the way they are and better understand them. Watching them work through their darkest parts and learn to accept themselves is a beautiful, beautiful thing, and I love that we get to watch Iryana do so as the main character.

This book had me cycling through giggling, crying, being on the edge of my seat, angry, and scared - and I loved every moment of it.

Can’t wait for book 2 👏🏼

[Allison Grace · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thank you to Madeline James and NetGalley for the ARC. While this book had elements I appreciated, it ultimately wasn’t the right fit for me.
The premise is strong, and the magic system felt genuinely unique. I also enjoyed seeing a warrior/fighter FMC, which is something I always like to see more of in fantasy. There’s a solid foundation here with interesting ideas at its core.
That said, I struggled with the execution. The pacing felt uneven, and large sections of dense worldbuilding (often delivered through long blocks of text) made it hard for me to stay immersed. Information about the world and characters was frequently reiterated, along with certain words and phrases, which slowed the reading experience for me. The story also relied heavily on dialogue to explain the world, and I found it difficult to naturally absorb the setting and stakes.
The writing style itself wasn’t for me, particularly due to the heavy use of adverbs and walls of worldbuilding (especially during high stakes moments), and I had a hard time emotionally connecting with the characters. Because of this, the book was difficult to finish. I chose not to DNF only because this was an ARC read and I don’t feel comfortable reviewing books I haven’t completed.
Overall, while there are aspects that may work well for other readers, this one didn’t quite land for me.

[Sam Walters · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Because the Beasts Came by Madeline James is a powerful and emotionally charged debut, and a promising start to what’s shaping up to be an exciting duology.

At its heart, this story belongs to its FMC - a young woman shaped by the trauma of her childhood, yet defined by her courage and resilience. Her journey of survival feels raw and honest, and I really appreciated how deeply her past influences her present. Watching her navigate fear, trust, and strength made for an engaging and often moving read.

The characters were a standout for me. The relationships felt meaningful, and the emotional stakes were clear throughout. The plot unfolds steadily, laying important groundwork for the wider story to come, and by the second half I was fully invested in where things are heading.

That said, the beginning is quite a slow burn. It takes time to build momentum, and there were moments where the writing felt a little repetitive or showed signs of being a debut - but that’s also part of what makes this such an exciting first book. The foundation is strong, and there’s clear potential for even greater depth and polish as the series continues.

Overall, this is a compelling start to a duology with heart, grit, and a heroine worth rooting for. I’m definitely looking forward to seeing what Madeline James does next.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️ ARC • This was a solid debut! I did enjoy this book a lot & I have a lot of thoughts. Long review & spoilers ahead!!

This book was a lot longer than I thought it was — I have an eARC, so I did not have page numbers, so imagine my surprise when I check and it is 700+ pages.

The TLDR of what I really liked/did not like: I really liked Iryana as an FMC, and her journey both internally/externally in the plot. The romance was fun, but I will admit that I genuinely was not as invested in it as I was with the overarching conflict. The world-building was incredibly interesting with the magic system & the dakii (the beasts) & political intrigue. Some things I did not like as much: I wanted a bit *more* from some of the world-building elements, and some (less important) portions of the book felt like they dragged on. Sometimes it felt like there were so many plot threads going on that it got tangled. All-in-all, I think this is a really interesting book and I am very excited to read the second!!

Okay, so now here are my longer thoughts:

First, Iryana was a solid FMC. Our poor girl really was traumatized & struggling and it felt like no one really saw the depth of it for a while (which was understandable, because she pushed everyone away). The more you find out about what she endured, the angrier I got at the adults in her life — her big explosion at her family at approx 74% was NEEDED. I know everything was complicated and there was a lot of trauma to go around, but young Iryana was so bitterly failed by the adults in her family. You might not have known, but it was very clear that they did not know because they did not *want* to know. Her inner turmoil with how much she loved her family and was willing to sacrifice for them versus how they talked to/treated her (because they don’t know/the miscommunication damaged their relationship) was difficult to read. It was sweet to see her and her sisters start to understand each other again & finally speak open and honestly with each other — especially seeing Hadima and Iryana finally start to understand the other, instead of the walls they put up. But I did love that they found their way back to each other/are on the road to healing those family wounds.

It definitely grapples with the realities of conflict and its aftermath. In the face of this breakdown of their society and this struggle for survival and safety from the beasts, it makes a lot of sense that the strength and sacrifice for the many would become a priority. But it is also terrible to see how individuals (like Iryana, like Pyetar) are forced to grow up in traumatic environments, when as children, they should have been protected. And in the case of Iryana, it wasn’t impossible for the adults in her family to protect her if they had just looked closer.

The world-building was really cool and the magic system is different. But there is a lot happening — I wanted a bit more about the mythos of their gods, because their forged magic comes from them! The dakii are a mystery, of course, and I can see the teasing threads of how they might not be what we think they are. There is a lot of political intrigue — there was a lot going on with the old aristocracy system, the guardians, the outposts and the military. I thought the conflict between the military and the outposts were interesting, but I will admit I am still a bit confused about how this world runs.

The ultimate conflict with Kavek and his followers within the military did not feel as high-stakes as I think it was meant to — it was high stakes in how it affected Iryana and her family, but it did not feel as high stakes in the overarching power conflict of the military, if that makes sense?? The poppy subplot was understandable where it affected Iryana (her history/why she really hated the soldiers) but I also felt like it was treated as a small subplot when it was also talked about as something so much more serious?

The conflict between Pyetar and Kavek was well-established, but not really explored. Kavek was insidious — I appreciated how he was written as manipulative and power-hungry and it really hit as you were reading, especially his attempts to isolate and manipulate Iryana. The romance between Pyetar and Iryana was cute, but I will also admit that I was not as invested in it as I was with the other elements of this book. I wanted just a bit…*more* from their romance. They had some history, they bantered/had conflict, they had tension, but there was something missing, and I don’t even know if I can put my finger on it. I think there is something very sweet about seeing the worst of someone and loving them anyway & choosing to make it work even when the circumstances are working against you. I am hoping we see more development with the two of them in the next book.

As far as the other characters, I loved Vaneshta. As a side character, I would argue that she was more developed than Pyetar. I love her personality and how she played into everything, and how she had so much patience and understanding for Iryana. Lidishta surprised me, but I am here for it.

I am also really glad that the end of this book was not a terrible cliffhanger — you see where there are more things that are going to become issues in the next book, but you are not full of anxiety as you wait!

Anyway, this incredibly long review aside, I did really enjoy this book — at a certain point, I was really invested and plowing through hundreds of pages a day. I think it is a solid debut, even if there are some elements that could have been tightened up. I always feel a little ridiculous rating in quarter stars, but it felt like it fit here.

Thank you so much MTMC Tours for the eARC (all thoughts here are my own honest thoughts) — I am definitely going to read the second book!!

[Sara Spiker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because the Beasts Came is a gripping tale that reflects the nature of beasts; that both human and creatures are shaped by desires and thirsts for power. The true monsters are those who stop at nothing no matter the cost, and this book provides several examples of that. The grittiness and darkness of the story is perfect for the setting, you truly delve into this world where danger is constantly surrounding you. There is a slow build to the story, but it’s completely worth the time spent investing in both the story and Iryana’s growth.

Iryana is a character that is consumed by grief, insecurity and so much anger. I liked that her development was slow, it shows a true progression of overcoming past trauma and building of trust. There’s a quiet humility to her, and a strength that I admire. There’s no cockiness or arrogance of her abilities, each day she wakes up determined to protect her family. There were a lot of times that empathised with Iryana, the isolation she built around herself, and her invisibility to her family hit hard on so many levels.

The extremely slow burn and semi love triangle gave a small heat to this story and I loved every minute of it. Of course I’m immediately drawn to Karvek, the way he truly saw Iryana and loved her broken pieces was heart wrenching. On the other hand Pyetar was the one who saw her, and wanted to restore her broken self to how beautiful she really is. The found family made this story. The friendships created were sweet, and you almost wanted to cheer when Iryana finally had a friend who cared for her. The reforging of family bonds impacted me greatly, and it makes you want to hold your family even closer.

I would consider this book more plot driven than world building, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It was set up to where the next book can focus more on world building and more chapters around forged magic and different abilities. I hope to be introduced to more great characters, and to see the relationships continue to grow. While this story was deep, it didn’t take away from the fun or beauty of a romantasy. For those who love the thrill of plotting, found family, unique magic systems, and an unstoppable FMC, then stop what you’re doing and pick up this book. Thank you Madeline for the chance to arc read !! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5 this was a great debut romantasy for Madeline James. Our FMC, Iryana was an absolute bad ass guardian who I adored. Iryana, begins her story broken and lost because of traumatic experiences in her life but had such a strong loyalty to her family she knew she had to do something to prove her worth to her clan.

In a world surrounded by beasts that roam the forests and keep everyone locked behind walls, Iryana is a fierce warrior whose goal is to protect her family’s clan from the beasts and keep them safe. After threats to disband her family’s clan, Iryana takes matters into her own hands and infiltrates the nearby 18th brigade, a military base, in order to obtain support needed to keep her clan together.

In this story Iryana works through her isolative and closed off tendencies and starts to open herself up to friendships and trusting relationships, a new concept for Iryana. There she meets two brothers who both seem to have an eye for Iryana. Although not a true love triangle, I enjoyed the push and pull between her feelings and the brothers and thought it added to the morally grey atmosphere.

This is a character driven story and largely focuses on Iryana and her journey to heal herself and save her clan. Although this is a Romantasy, there was romance but it was an extreme slow burn with less focus on the romance subplot that other more romance driven romantasy books.

This book is long! I think certain chapters could have been shorted and still had the same effect. The world building was great in this story I feel like I could really envision the setting and felt it was immersive and rich. I would have liked to see a bit more side character storyline development and hope that we see that more in books two.

Overall, I would recommend this book, especially for those who enjoy character driven stories with good world building. I look forward to book two! Thank you to MTMC Tours and Madeline James for my gifted ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Felicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to read an early version of this book and am so excited it gets to be shared with the world!

The world-building in this book is so immersive I feel I only scratched the surface of what it has to offer. Iryana’s descent into enemy territory to save the community she’s never been at home in is both emotionally and physically fraught. And speaking of emotions, the tension between her and the military’s charismatic leader is only matched by her friction with his brother: a man even the amoral soldiers are afraid of, who knows too many of her secrets. While I am a sucker for romantic tension (which this book has heaps of), and an action-packed fantasy adventure (that this book delivers), it’s Iryana’s emotional journey as she wrangles the truth of her past that left me weeping. I’m so glad I wasn’t in public reading this book because I was ugly crying through several chapters.

[Léa B · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Because the Beasts Came by Madeline James is gripping and everything I look for in a romantasy: complex characters, lush worldbuilding and yearning. Can we talk about the yearning? OH MY. I was definitely hooked from the start ! I really loved the interaction between Iryana, our main character and Pyetar, the love interest… but also with Karvek who is an ambivalent villain, hot and calculating.
The characters are well defined and endearing, even the less central ones. The worldbuilding was very intricate and different from what I read before, and I love the fact that it was influenced by Slavic culture! The magic system was also well brought up. I’m really intrigued by the fact that it’s a duology, as the book can stand on its own. But I guess some things that were implied in the first book would see the light of day in the second one, like the nature of dakii perhaps?
All this to say, this was a very strong debut and one of the best self-published books I read in a while. I can’t wait to read more from Madeline!

[Britany Walkling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC and enjoyed the overall experience.

The world-building is incredibly rich and descriptive, with a unique magic system that slowly unfolds as the story progresses. It’s very plot-focused, and while it starts a bit slow with background details, once it picks up, a lot begins to happen and it keeps your attention.

The FMC is complex and broken in a very real way, shaped by past trauma and a difficult family dynamic. Her growth throughout the story was one of my favorite parts. I also loved the friendship(s) that ended up blooming.

This is definitely a slow burn, very minimal romance, so don’t go in expecting that to be a major focus. The tension builds gradually, which works well for the story overall.

It’s a longer read, but worth it, and I’m excited to see what happens in the next book.

[Camilla Blomgren · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5/5⭐️

Wow, this book was so good.

The level of detail is incredible, and even though it’s written in third person, I felt completely immersed in Iryana’s story.

The action scenes are on another level, so vivid that it literally plays out like a movie in your head.

The characters, the worldbuilding, the magic… everything feels so well thought out.

And the slow burn? Insane. Absolutely worth it.

Don’t be intimidated by the length, it’s what makes the whole story come alive.

I already need book two.

[Melody H · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was different. I wouldn’t classify it as a true Romantasy but more fantasy and action. The romance really doesn’t take place until towards the end of the book which is fine but it is definitely a slow burn until the very end. I felt a little repetitiveness sometimes in the chapters but it was a good backstory of the FMC and the ending definitely was open for a second book. Excited to see where the author takes it! Thank you to the author for the ARC!

[Trisha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Military Fantasy? SAY. LESS. Thank you to MTMC Tours and Madeline James for the ARC of the book!

This was a JOURNEY. Which...it's over 600 pages so it better be. But this is one where you're either going to love or hate the FMC and why she does what she does, I think. I'm in both camps because I feel like I *get* her. She's on a self shun from her family because she believes she's a problem, a screw-up, a hindrance to their happiness and well-being. But she still loves them and would do anything for them--include risk her life half a dozen times.

Family is...complicated. And found family? Just as much.

This is definitely character driven vs plot driven for about the first 60% of the book. There isn't really a lot of external world building until around that point, and even then, I found myself wanting MORE and wanting the WHY of it all. But I also appreciate that it absolutely would have been done as an "info dump" based on how the story was told and the internal processing, so I can live without it.

This was a really good time if you like to see your FMC really grow as a person from start to finish, and love a reluctant heroine. It's such an underrated trope and I can't wait for book 2!

[Jessica Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this took me a minute to finish, she was a chonky book!!
Generally I avoid reading the reviews of others, saw some conflicting ones on here prior to starting the book and now having completed it, I can hand on heart say how far wrong they were. So sure there are opinions, everyone’s got one however this book took me on the most beautiful journey. From the scene building to the character development I just simply fell in love and connected so deeply to the story.
I received this book as an ARC, then bought the book midway as I wanted a physical copy and honestly can’t get over how good it was.
Thank you to the author for sharing your brilliant mind, I can’t wait for book two!

[Char · Rating 4 out of 5]

Phew.. this book was CHONKY and I admit, I am a fast reader and it took me some time to get through it. There is SOOO much description given to world building, character growth, back story and plot combined with the slow but steady building of a story that weaves around one very very broken woman. At times, I wanted to shake Ireyana for her walls she has built so high around herself and shout at her "just let them in! they want to help and love you!". But trauma doesn't work like that, and the author has done an incredible job of patiently adding the layers and foundations to help Ireyana find her peace and realise she was never to blame for what happened to her.

I love all the missions the 18th brigade go out on, scouting, the hidden platforms to hide from the Dakii.. and those creatures? I suspect there's something more to them, like magical.. maybe they're made? As like it was pointed out, they've never seen cubs, so where are they coming from?

The magic system is really cool, they get forged in the element of their choice and then I think? They then can make a weapon from that element that never breaks or shatters perhaps? I feel this wasn't explained as well as I'd like but still unique and interesting!

[Cait | GoodeyReads · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you MTMC Tours and the author for a gifted copy.

WHY SO LONG?

BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK

I went into this with decent hopes and am left wondering if it’s worth reading book two? There’s no way this needed to be 600+ pages without more character exploration. Every single character lacked depth. I didn’t have an attachment to anyone.

I was genuinely invested for the first 30%ish. I thought the world building was going well and liked the military training grounds idea. I think overall the writing style was good, just needed dialed in.

I’m always here for a slow burn but the fact of the matter is we didn’t get more than maybe one interaction with the leads until after halfway? And their dynamic was lackluster. No chemistry or banter or anything swoony. There was also a weird situation with the guy’s brother? It wasn’t a love triangle, but it wasn’t good either.

There’s a few more things that made me cranky but it is what it is.

Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy romance
- Language: mild
- Romance: one open door (literally the last pages)
- Violence: moderate-high
- Content warnings: physical/emotional abuse

[Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kept me completely hooked through every battle and every epic moment of our protagonist fighting to survive.

Set in the territory of Istri, the story takes place in a world forever changed the day the beasts arrived. Massive, horned creatures far more brutal than wolves appeared, driven by a relentless hunger to destroy humanity. These monsters, known as the Dakii, forced humans into isolated communities, constantly living on the edge of survival.

The worldbuilding is one of the strongest aspects of this book. It feels immersive, detailed, and central to the story, shaping both the plot and the emotional weight behind every decision the characters make.

The story is packed with action, with intense and gripping fights that feel both brutal and empowering. But beyond the action, what truly stood out to me was the emotional depth.

Our main character, Iryana, is deeply insecure and struggles with trauma, along with a level of social anxiety that pushes her to isolate herself, even from her own family. We witness her internal battles just as much as the physical ones, and Madeline James portrays this incredibly well. Her writing is so vivid that at times I could truly feel the protagonist’s anxiety and, later, her healing.

One thing that didn’t fully work for me was the romantic entanglement (I don’t want to spoil anything so I will not explain this). It just wasn’t for me. I also found myself conflicted with Iryana’s relationship with her family. She is willing to sacrifice everything for them, even while carrying deep resentment, and at times that contrast felt difficult for me to fully connect with. To me, it reflected how deeply conflicted she is as a character, but it also created some distance in how I experienced her choices. Her belief that she does not deserve anything good in life is incredibly sad and adds emotional weight, even when at times I was just judging her poor decisions and mental processes.

Watching her slowly grow, confront her fears, and begin to heal was still one of the most rewarding parts of the story.

It is important to note that romance is very much a subplot here. If you are looking for romantasy, spice, or a romance-driven narrative, this might not be the book for you. This story leans heavily into survival, politics, trauma, and character development, with worldbuilding playing a major role throughout.

One of my favourite moments, the one that literally made me scream, came from Vaneshta, the protagonist’s friend and squad leader in Brigade 18. It was built up perfectly and paid off in the best way possible.

Vaneshta gave me major Vi from League of Legends vibes. Strong, fearless, and unapologetically badass. I loved her. The secondary characters are incredibly well developed and add so much depth to the story.

Overall, this is a powerful, action driven story with emotional intensity, strong character growth, and a fascinating world. Seeing the protagonist fight both externally against the beasts and internally against her own fears was incredibly satisfying.

If you love

✨ Dark, survival driven fantasy
✨ Strong but realistically flawed female leads
✨ Heavy worldbuilding
✨ Character growth and emotional depth
✨ Found family and military group dynamics

then you should definitely pick this up.

And if you do, don’t be surprised if you start having nightmares about the Dakii… 👀

Btw, the ending was lovely and very rewarding; it really left you with a desire to keep knowing more about Istri and Iryana’s journey.

Thanks to the author for sending me an ARC of this book.

[Mae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you very much to NetGalley, Madeline James, and Spellbound Worlds/Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.

Because The Beasts Came was a very enjoyable book from start to finish. Iryana is the middle child of a Guardian clan, a family wrought with death, adaptations, and the duty of protecting others from the beasts. The beasts are wolf-like creatures with blue-gray fur and antlers on their heads. They’re vicious, brutal, and only bring destruction and mayhem wherever they go.

Iryana’s abusive father was previously injured and, during his recovery, becomes hooked on Beast’s Poppy, an opium-like drug that eventually leads to his death. After her mother leaves due to the abuse, we begin to see Iryana’s struggles. These first appear in the form of shameful alienation, as she believes she’s not adequate enough to be part of—or even live in—the Main House with the rest of her family and Guardian clan.

To save her family from the ruin of losing their Second (the next in line and future heir), the First (Iryana’s grandmother) agrees to let Iryana join the dreaded 18th Brigade, a ruthless military group fighting against the beasts that have spread fear and dread across the land. There, Iryana meets Pyetar and Karvek—two brothers with opposing personalities and goals, yet neither can seem to stay away from her. The plot unravels into a thrilling story, and though there were some questionable moments, this first book in the duology was riveting, compelling, and kept me reading.

Our main character, Iryana, is quite complex. She’s not difficult to understand by any means, but a lot of the book takes place inside her head. This got a bit exhausting at times—especially around the halfway point, when I felt like I’d heard “I wasn’t worthy,” or some variation of that phrase, for about the 60th time. I understood the purpose behind it, but it became a bit repetitive.

That said, she was a believable character. Every questionable action felt relevant to the plot and relatable to those of us who struggle with poor self-esteem, lack of confidence, crippling anxiety, or overthinking tendencies. She also approaches very realistic scenarios with a lot of thought and intention, which was a redeeming quality.

The plot moved along pretty quickly, with a ton of time jumps. Typically, that’s not something I enjoy, but in this book, I think it was done well. That said, I was definitely yearning for more small, meaningful moments between the FMC and MMC, instead of just “we spent time together over two days.” The romantic moments we did get were great, and the slight love triangle aspect was satisfying—even for readers who usually hate love triangles.

Overall, I’m rating this book 3.75 stars out of 5 due to James’s ability to write a beautifully complex story, an interesting magic system, a satisfying romance, and a conclusion that leaves us with some unanswered questions instead of a frustrating cliffhanger. I’m subtracting 1.25 stars because the book felt a bit too long and the pacing sometimes moved too quickly. I wanted more from the romance, but I’m still satisfied with what I got!


I would definitely read Madeline James’s books again in the future, and I’m looking forward to the final book in this duology!

Thank you again to NetGalley, Madeline James, and Spellbound Worlds/Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback.

[Glitched.Havok · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some stories entertain you. This one reaches in and pulls something back to the surface that you thought was long buried.

At its core, this is a story about survival in a fractured world where beasts have already taken everything and what remains is controlled by violence, power, and fragile alliances. Iryana lives in the quiet aftermath of that destruction, carrying the weight of a broken clan on her shoulders. She moves in the shadows, doing whatever it takes to keep her people alive, even when hope is thinning to almost nothing. The only chance left lies with the dangerous magic of the metal wells, controlled by ruthless forces she has no choice but to walk straight into.

So she does. She steps into a fortress of liars and killers, forcing herself to belong in a place that was never meant to keep her safe. And that is where the story truly begins.
Iryana is not weak. She is shattered in a way that feels painfully real. At first, you do not fully understand her. You see hesitation, fear, and a desperate need to please that feels almost frustrating until it clicks. She is a child who was never allowed to be one, shaped by neglect and survival into someone who believes her worth depends entirely on being useful to others. Every decision she makes, every risk she takes, is rooted in that quiet, aching need to be accepted and loved.

That is what makes her so easy to exploit.
Karvek sees it immediately. Where others might overlook her, he recognizes the cracks and understands exactly how to use them. He is calculating, manipulative, and unsettling in the way he offers her something that looks like value while slowly tightening control. Their dynamic is tense and layered, built on power, perception, and the dangerous illusion of being seen.

But this story does not settle for manipulation alone.

Because then there is Pyetar.
From the beginning, he carries a different kind of weight. Angry, guarded, and deeply scarred, he mirrors Iryana in ways that hurt to witness. Where she bends inward, he lashes outward. Where she seeks walls, he has open maps. And yet, beneath all of that, there is a quiet, undeniable pull toward protecting what little still matters to him. Every moment with him feels charged, not just with tension, but with something softer that neither of them quite knows how to handle.

He had my heart from the start.

What makes this story stand out is not just the world, though it is vivid, brutal, and unlike anything familiar. It is the emotional depth woven into every interaction. The slow unraveling of two broken people trying to survive not just the world around them, but the damage within them.

This is not a story about fixing someone. It is about what happens when love finds its way into the cracks anyway.

I stayed up all night reading because I could not pull myself away. Not from the tension, not from the characters, and not from the way it made me feel seen in places I did not expect.

It is raw, haunting, and beautifully written in a way that lingers long after the final page.

[Katy Langendoen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to have an arc of this one!! Thank you to the author for trusting me with your work (and sorry this review is so late 😭).

I had a LOT of thoughts abt this book. But I’ll try to keep it as concise as possible.

The good:
I LOVED the worldbuilding!! I fell in love w the idea immediately bc I had ideas for smthg similar with the beasts (but everything else very diff) for a book when I was a kid. bc of that nostalgic connections it was a great start. I also thought the idea of magic coming from the wells and the way it is gained was an EXCELLENT way to make magic more concrete and something to be worked for. the whole *double forging * shebang at the end was a great twist / move. The ending was really satisfying and I appreciated how things came together plot wise.

The okay
The romance was intriguing but it felt very stop-start-stop-stall and fairly infrequent to make the “I love you” truly work imo. I think I just wanted MORE of them tbh. However I have a strong feeling that is being drawn out into a second book maybe 👀? I also understood that his brother was meant to rival him esp as a red herring romance but that just… wasn’t believable. I could just tell the author didn’t want them together and it bled thru the writing itself making me not for even a single moment believe Karvek was gonna be good or the one. He also wasn’t the only unbelievable element - there were quite a few things that had a lot of POTENTIAL to be so good but I felt they were rushed or not built the best they could be so they didn’t quite make sense. One of those was taking the fort - it sounded like they were gonna recruit multiple brigades… but then only got the one to help?? And even w the Kleesolds - they’re ONE family so it would have never been enough to rival Kraveks MULTIPLE forces and brigades yk? Also the double forging - her first one took at least a WEEK so the whole get there AND do it AND get back within a day and a half? It just didn’t make sense. But then that whole idea was SO COOLLLL like I LOVED that. So even that bothered me I tried to take it all w a grain of salt bc I understand it is a debut book so I see the vision and the possibilities for future works to be AMAZING!!

The bad
There were consistently minor plot holes thru out unfortunately. Most of the time they were small enough they did not impact the story but bc they were there they would keep pulling me out of the book. I also found the main character quite frustrating. I understood where the author was coming from trying to represent the trauma and anxiety the character had gone thru but I felt that the reveals of this past were not given to me as reader in a sufficient steady enough pieces to justify actions AS they were happening. Instead it was more retroactively understanding elements. Sometimes that is great for a story but I found it didn’t work well here esp silly in the beginning and impacted the start quite a bit. If anything I think things just needed to be trimmed down more so get to the reveals faster to make things make sense.

[marika · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a world ravaged by beasts, a broken guardian infiltrates a brutal gang to steal access to the magic her outpost needs to survive. However, as the lines between friend and foe blur, Iryana realizes the hardest part of the mission isn't keeping up her deception, but allowing herself to be healed by the very people she came to betray.

This is a very plot driven story, with only a light touch of romance that develops mostly toward the end. The world building is extensive and thoughtfully crafted, especially in how it explores new power structures and the magic system. The pacing can feel slower in parts, largely because we are so immersed in Iryana’s inner world, her thoughts, fears, and self sabotage shaping the rhythm of the story. This slower pace allows a deep dive into character and world building, making every emotional beat feel earned. The concept of five gods and humans forging connections with them to wield magic and create weapons is both unique and engaging.

Iryana, our FMC, comes from a family of guardians tasked with protecting their outpost and fighting the Dakii, deadly creatures threatening humanity. She is far from a typical heroine. She is not the chosen one, not effortlessly strong, and not put together. She is deeply flawed, struggling with trauma, anxiety, and avoidant tendencies that shape every relationship in her life.
She is her own biggest obstacle. She craves acceptance, yet pushes it away. She longs for connection, yet isolates herself. She projects her insecurities onto others and clings to her brokenness because it feels safer than vulnerability. Her journey is not about becoming powerful, it is about healing. It is about learning to trust, to feel, and to let people in.

Pyetar, the MMC, mirrors her in many ways. He is also guarded and shaped by duty, carrying the weight of expectations he never wanted. As the son of a general, his life has never truly been his own. Despite this, he works quietly to protect others, even while keeping himself isolated. Both characters are bound by responsibility, constantly choosing duty over desire, even as the tension between them grows.

At its core, this story is about healing, and it does not romanticize it. Healing is messy. It is uncomfortable and frightening. It is one step forward and two steps back. Iryana spends much of her life running, from confrontation, from pain, from herself. But when she finally begins to face her past and mend her relationships, something shifts. The frightened, isolated version of herself slowly gives way to someone willing to fight, not just for survival, but for love and connection.

This is not a story about saving the world. It is about learning you are worth saving, jagged pieces and all, and finding your true strength in accepting every part of yourself.

[Betwixt the Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 🐧🐧🐧🐧🐧
Quick Reasons: fantastic, unique world building; intriguing magic system; the character arcs are emotionally fraught and so believable; this was a break neck race to the finish; can't wait to see where book 2 leads

Huge thanks to Madeline James and Spellbound Worlds Publishing for the ARC! This gesture in no way altered or impacted my read of or review for this book.

“My brother will never be satisfied. There’s a noose around my neck, and the only thing keeping it away from my throat is my hands. Sure, my hands are raw and bleeding, but if I stop pushing back, that brief moment of relief will let him tighten the noose even further.”

This book is full of everything a reader could hope for from a fantasy -- strong, realistic character arcs; fast paced action that sits heavy on the veins even in the quiet moments; steady world building with a unique magic system; a little bit of romance, a lot of danger, and a heavy dose of snark. Once I picked this book up, I struggled to put it down, though it took me longer to get through than I'd like to admit. This is not for lack of trying-- no, I wanted this read to breathe itself into my being. I wanted to carve every detail into my thoughts and keep them there for as long as I could. The world building coupled with just how far these characters grow kept me enthralled with baited breath, desperate to see where the next scene, the next page, the next chapter would lead. And the ending! Oh, that ending.

Honestly, I am both excited and rather terrified to see where book 2 will lead us from here! This read was fraught with emotions, and made me examine some of the darkest, most secretive parts of myself. There's a power in that, that makes me feel like book 2 might just come along and break me entirely. With the ending this read gave us, I am worried what book 2 will bring... and yet I NEED IT, all the same.

“I told you I could have fun. You were wrong. Admit it!”

“It’s not that. I just… This is the first time I’ve seen you actually smile.”

That wiped the smile off her face instantly as her stomach flipped, and she hurried to change the subject. “Well, I don’t see you enjoying yourself very often either. You’re always brooding. Or threatening violence. Or doing violence.”

“I don’t brood,” he argued, his face a complete contradiction.

I highly recommend this to lovers of fantasy with just a smidge of romance, breakneck race to the finish reads, and characters who break only to be reforged stronger. Also, unique magic systems with some terrifying monsters, to boot! What will you learn about yourselves Because the Beasts Came, Penguins? Read on to find out.

[Montserrat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because the Beasts Came ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I recieved this book as an ARC from the author, this is an honest review.

“Being ripped apart by beasts would be less painful.”

I can say without a doubt that I absolutely loved this book, from beginning to end.

From the very start, we meet Iryana—a young woman not only facing the constant threat of beasts, but also dealing with something far more daunting: a painful past and a family that, while present, cannot fully understand the depth of her trauma.

Iryana comes from a family of Guardians and has been trained since childhood to follow a strict moral code—protect the vulnerable and remain loyal to her family being at the center. But none of that training prepared her to cope with the complex trauma she has carried since she was very young. Instead, she navigates it the only way she knows how: quietly, protectively, and often from the shadows, doing everything she can to keep her family safe.

One of the standout elements of this book is its worldbuilding and magic system. Both feel carefully crafted and immersive, adding depth to the story while supporting its emotional core.

In this story, Madeline James delivers deeply complex, multidimensional characters whose lives have been shaped by suffering and unimaginable experiences. Their present is inseparable from their past, and that weight is felt throughout the narrative in a way that feels both raw and compelling.

The dynamics between Iryana and the other characters are incredibly engaging, and it quickly becomes addictive to follow how these relationships evolve over time.

Although the story initially presents a “good” side and a “bad” one—reluctant allies forced to confront a shared threat—it soon becomes clear that things are far more nuanced. The moral grayness adds depth to the story, making the reading experience even more compelling as layers begin to unfold.

The dichotomy between Pyetar and Karkek is particularly well crafted. Their contrast feels intentional and complex, and the push and pull Iryana experiences between them feel both natural and emotionally grounded. As these relationships develop, they also mirror Iryana’s own growth, which makes her character arc all the more satisfying.

If I had to point out one thing I would have loved to see more of, it would be a deeper exploration of some of the supporting characters’ backstories. Getting to understand their pasts in the same way we come to understand Iryana would have added even more depth to their motivations and relationships.

It’s easy to say that I loved this book—while it may not be perfect, it offers a captivating journey and a strong start to what promises to be a very compelling series.

[Anais (atrailofpages) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This follows Iryana who had kept herself separate from her family after a couple tragic incidents in her past that they blame her for. But when her family receives word that their clan will need to move in six months, she joins the 18th military in order to help save them.

Okay, so, I thought that I would love this book. Sounded right up my alley, but it sadly fell short for me.

I enjoyed the idea of the world. It seemed more post apocalyptic with these beasts that roam the forests that everyone has to hide from and hunt to protect their families.

I enjoyed the idea of these clans and their enemies, or more like rivals, the military and the idea of them coming together to help each other out.

I want to say I liked the characters, but they all kind of just confused me.

So, I liked the world, I liked the idea of the plot, but the way it came together didn’t make sense for me. And I fully expected to love this book, so excuse my frustration.

First off, this is called Because the Beasts Came. The beasts are there, but the book has nothing to do with them. Nothing. We never even get an explanation as to where they came from or why. Maybe that will be in the next book, but I don’t really plan on reading the next book. I was expecting this to be a battle of like the people against the beasts, but no, instead it’s the people battling against the more evil within the people. So, I guess we’re saying the true beasts are the people within?

I didn’t particularly like Iryana. She has trauma, and I understand why she would lash out or act the way she did. What I didn’t like is how she never tried to handle her grief and pain. She just used it as an excuse for everything and it was very repetitive. It was thrown in my face all the time and it got to the point where I just didn’t care.

About the repetition, this book could have been much much shorter if a lot of chapters were taken out. Iryana is taken to this military and each day was the same. Wake up, eat, train, go on missions, go home and go to sleep. There were several chapters of this and I was just bored out of my mind. Nothing happened for most of the middle of this book.

Then the romance made no sense. I never felt a connection and they were never around each other for their connection to make sense. And the choices she made, why would anyone want her? That’s mean, but seriously, the choices she made and one in particular had me so mad and disappointed in her. And yet, bam! They were in love??? Just no.

Now, I love long and slow books. This one did have some world building, but if the book is going to be that long, it needs variety, it can’t be as repetitive as this one was for me to be able to enjoy myself or care about anyone.

I’m shocked there’s a second book. The ending made me think there wouldn’t be and I don’t know why there is another one. I don’t plan on reading the next one though, so, I guess it doesn’t really matter.

Clearly many have loved this book, so it just must not have been for me. 2.5 stars.

Thank you to the author for the e-ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shadescraft · Rating 4 out of 5]

Total Ranking 3.5 ★★★⯪☆
Enjoyment: :D
"I had a lot of fun experiencing this media. Will probably reread, likely was a hyperfixation"

Quality: B
"Above average. Themes explored with consistent writing, but there are fundamental issues"

In general I really enjoyed this book! I thought the worldbuilding was well thought through and showed depth. I especially loved how the magic system is clearly meant to be for more than just combat but has been forced into this mode by the dakii attacks. This book leaves a lot of questions regarding the worldbuilding, the magic, the beasts, the gods etc. but it doesn't bother me. In fact, I am excited to read more in this series to get those questions answered!

Iryana's growth throughout the book feels well earned. It is not in one straight upward line, which I appreciated because it felt more real. I also enjoyed the slow burn romance and how that slow burn quality extended to her other friendships and family members. There are a lot of stumbling blocks for her which highlights her trauma.

Normally, this book would be getting an "A" in Quality and a solid 4☆. The book was generally well paced (I didn't mind the slower sections between the 1/2 way and 3/4 section of the book). The characters are consistent, the book deals with clear themes and says something beyond just plot beats.

Unfortunately, this book really needs a good copy editor. Overused words ("bloated" comes to mind), grammatically confusing sentences, repeated words or phrases from one sentence to the next, and sections of sentences with similar length (very long) without variation. All these issues would have been caught and fixed by a good copy editor. That being said, the line edits were fine. This book was not plagued with typos or misused words and the quality of the prose itself was good. If the author is reading this, I would recommend finding a new copy editor for the second book.

Overall, I am definitely looking forward to Book 2 in the Wells of Istri series and will probably reread this one. This book is worth a read!

**This rating scale method is adapted from Goobers Who Read on Youtube**

[Kathleen Howlett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Spellbound Worlds and Madeline James for the gifted eArc. All opinions are my own.

This is a stunning high fantasy debut which balances epic action and adventure with in-depth character development, all within the backdrop of a rich and complex world. If you're a fan of series like The Bridge Kingdom and The Serpent and the Wings of Night then this one is definitely for you!

The lore and world-building gave me exactly what I long for in a high fantasy, but what made Because the Beasts Came really shine was the raw and compelling stories of our characters. Their grief and trauma leaps off the page and is so humanly heartbreaking. There are some really complex issues here around abuse, neglect and addiction especially for our FMC Iryana. Her story is a very different exploration of trauma than I'm used to seeing in a fantasy. She's not the typical warrior FMC - she's a strong fighter, cunning, and unafraid to throw herself into a fight, but she's also deeply ashamed of her perceived failings and reluctant to step into any real leadership roles. She isolates herself from everyone as a way of coping with her traumas, and watching her character start to heal and conquer those fears makes her seem even stronger. Our side characters, MMC and even our big baddie are all also wonderfully complex, and I wish I had enough time here to delve into all of them. You'll just have to read it and find out for yourself 😉

The romance is really a subplot here, and we get a very sloowwwwww burn. But relationships in general, friendships and familial relationships, are truly at the core of the story. We have such a beautiful found family, as well as a re-discovered family. My only critique is the pacing was a little inconsistent, especially at the beginning and in the middle. Some parts started to feel repetitive, especially Iryana settling into life with the 18th. As a plus, even though the story will continue in book 2, this book ends with a fairly satisfying conclusion. No nasty cliffhangers lurking here! I would highly recommend Because the Beasts Came for any epic and high fantasy lover who longs for deeper character arcs.

[Addie James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m going to be completely honest with you here, at the beginning of this book I was unsure if I was going to end up here. I could not stand Iryana at first. I thought she was a whiny, insufferable coward and I didn’t understand why she was being the way that she was. It was honestly making me upset and I wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to keep reading. Pyetar was my saving grace. My first impression of him was that he is HOT AF. And then you meet Karvek, and you don’t know who the love interest is. I am also not a huge fan of love triangles but this was a love triangle done RIGHT, imho. I honestly loved how sweet Karvek was to Iryana at first and how he helped her feel like she belonged. I did like how the author kind of showcased Iryana’s intelligence through Karvek. And then I HATED Karvek. And my heart just hurt for what Iryana had to do. But I loved Pyetar and how protective he always was of Iryana, without sheltering her or making her feel less than.
I also really enjoyed the world building. It never felt overwhelming to me. I loved that it wasn’t anything crazy but still made me feel immersed. The dakii are definitely going to be haunting my nightmares. The magic system was also so unique! I loved the wells of magic and that the characters had raw magic that could be forged into weapons and other items to enhance fighting and other things. I also loved that there were 5 different types of magic that you could align with. It was a very original idea and also very immersive. The journey that Iryana took to become forged was so interesting and captivating. I loved the sacrifice that she made and how determined she was.
that brings me to Iryana’s character arc. I absolutely loved her by the end of the book! I love powerful women and how loyal and smart Iryana was. The healing that she went through was so inspiring and heartfelt, and I think that so many people can relate to how she felt and her grief.
And the slow burn was absolutely delicious. And I mean slowwww burn. It was so satisfying at the end and I am chomping at the bit to find out what happens next in Iryana’s story!!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC! 🫶🏼