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Because the Beasts Came
Not yet published
Expected 9 Apr 26She'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.
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.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 9, 2026
22 people are currently reading
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February 19, 2026˚₊‧ 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. ☕
February 8, 2026
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?”
“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?”
August 31, 2025
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
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.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Because the Beasts Came is not an easy read. It’s heavy in a way that just kind of sits on your chest the whole time. Even when nothing huge is happening, there’s this tension underneath everything, like something is about to break.
The atmosphere is what got me first. It feels isolated. Quiet. Almost eerie. Like the setting itself is watching everything unfold. It’s not loud horror or over-the-top drama — it’s more subtle and unsettling. The kind of book where you keep turning the page not because it’s fast-paced, but because you need to know what’s really going on.
The characters feel trapped in more ways than one. Not just physically, but emotionally. There’s this sense of fear and control and power dynamics that made me uncomfortable — but in the way the author clearly intended. It doesn’t hand you easy answers. It doesn’t soften the edges. You kind of just have to sit with it.
What I liked is that it trusts you as a reader. It doesn’t over-explain. It lets you piece things together. Sometimes that made me pause and reread a line because I felt like there was more underneath it. And usually there was.
There’s also this underlying commentary about violence — not just physical violence, but the quieter kinds. The emotional, psychological kind. And that hit harder than I expected. It makes you think about what people are capable of when fear takes over.
It’s not a comforting book. It’s not warm. But it’s powerful. And honestly, I respect books that aren’t afraid to make you uncomfortable.
When I finished it, I didn’t feel satisfied in a clean way. I felt unsettled. Thoughtful. A little disturbed. But also impressed.
It’s the kind of story that lingers in the back of your mind, especially when things get quiet.
And I think that’s exactly the point.
The atmosphere is what got me first. It feels isolated. Quiet. Almost eerie. Like the setting itself is watching everything unfold. It’s not loud horror or over-the-top drama — it’s more subtle and unsettling. The kind of book where you keep turning the page not because it’s fast-paced, but because you need to know what’s really going on.
The characters feel trapped in more ways than one. Not just physically, but emotionally. There’s this sense of fear and control and power dynamics that made me uncomfortable — but in the way the author clearly intended. It doesn’t hand you easy answers. It doesn’t soften the edges. You kind of just have to sit with it.
What I liked is that it trusts you as a reader. It doesn’t over-explain. It lets you piece things together. Sometimes that made me pause and reread a line because I felt like there was more underneath it. And usually there was.
There’s also this underlying commentary about violence — not just physical violence, but the quieter kinds. The emotional, psychological kind. And that hit harder than I expected. It makes you think about what people are capable of when fear takes over.
It’s not a comforting book. It’s not warm. But it’s powerful. And honestly, I respect books that aren’t afraid to make you uncomfortable.
When I finished it, I didn’t feel satisfied in a clean way. I felt unsettled. Thoughtful. A little disturbed. But also impressed.
It’s the kind of story that lingers in the back of your mind, especially when things get quiet.
And I think that’s exactly the point.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some stories entertain you. Some devastate you. Because the Beasts Came by Madeline James does both — and then gently pieces your heart back together.
From the very first chapter, Iryana’s journey felt achingly real. She isn’t written as a flawless heroine or a larger-than-life savior. She is uncertain, scarred, questioning, and desperately trying to survive in a world that keeps demanding more from her than it ever gives back. And that’s exactly what makes her extraordinary.
What struck me most about Iryana wasn’t her strength in battle or her resilience in the face of cruelty — it was the quiet, stubborn way she kept choosing to exist. To hope. To love. Even when the world — and the beasts — made her feel small.
So much of her journey centers on worth. On feeling like you must become harder, sharper, less yourself to survive. Watching Iryana wrestle with that — watching her believe, even for a moment, that she needed to be more — was heartbreaking. Because the truth, the beautiful, devastating truth, is that she was always enough.
Enough in her softness.
Enough in her grief.
Enough in her fear.
Enough in her love.
The beasts in this story aren’t only the monsters that roam the pages. They’re doubt. Shame. Expectation. Trauma. And Iryana’s greatest battle isn’t slaying something external — it’s learning that her value was never contingent on her power, her perfection, or her ability to endure suffering without breaking.
Madeline James writes with a kind of emotional precision that lingers. There are moments in this book that feel like a hand pressed gently over your heart — reminding you that survival doesn’t require you to erase yourself.
I finished this book feeling raw, reflective, and strangely comforted. Iryana’s journey is not about becoming enough.
It’s about realizing she always was.
And maybe… so are we.
Some stories entertain you. Some devastate you. Because the Beasts Came by Madeline James does both — and then gently pieces your heart back together.
From the very first chapter, Iryana’s journey felt achingly real. She isn’t written as a flawless heroine or a larger-than-life savior. She is uncertain, scarred, questioning, and desperately trying to survive in a world that keeps demanding more from her than it ever gives back. And that’s exactly what makes her extraordinary.
What struck me most about Iryana wasn’t her strength in battle or her resilience in the face of cruelty — it was the quiet, stubborn way she kept choosing to exist. To hope. To love. Even when the world — and the beasts — made her feel small.
So much of her journey centers on worth. On feeling like you must become harder, sharper, less yourself to survive. Watching Iryana wrestle with that — watching her believe, even for a moment, that she needed to be more — was heartbreaking. Because the truth, the beautiful, devastating truth, is that she was always enough.
Enough in her softness.
Enough in her grief.
Enough in her fear.
Enough in her love.
The beasts in this story aren’t only the monsters that roam the pages. They’re doubt. Shame. Expectation. Trauma. And Iryana’s greatest battle isn’t slaying something external — it’s learning that her value was never contingent on her power, her perfection, or her ability to endure suffering without breaking.
Madeline James writes with a kind of emotional precision that lingers. There are moments in this book that feel like a hand pressed gently over your heart — reminding you that survival doesn’t require you to erase yourself.
I finished this book feeling raw, reflective, and strangely comforted. Iryana’s journey is not about becoming enough.
It’s about realizing she always was.
And maybe… so are we.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨️ 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.
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.
October 14, 2025
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 👏🏼
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 👏🏼
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Because the Beasts Came is a breathtaking fantasy epic that completely took my breath away. Madeline James has crafted an immersive, gritty world where survival, magic, and raw emotion collide in the most unforgettable way.
From the very first page, Iryana’s journey grabbed me — a broken but determined guardian fighting to save her people in a land ravaged by beasts and brutal factions. Her mission to infiltrate an enemy brigade isn’t just dangerous — it’s soul-shaking, and her internal struggle to balance duty, trauma, and loyalty made her one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve encountered in fantasy.
The world-building is rich and layered, filled with ancient magic, haunting creatures, and societies on the brink of collapse. Every twist kept me turning pages, hungry to learn more about the metal wells, the war-torn lands, and the fragile hope that binds characters together.
But the heart of this story lies in its characters — their vulnerabilities, fierce loyalties, and emotions so real they hit like a punch. The slow-burn tension, both in battle and in burgeoning relationships, was executed beautifully. I was laughing, crying, and gripped with suspense — sometimes all at once.
Because the Beasts Came is a masterful start to what promises to be an epic duology. If you're a fan of emotionally resonant fantasy with deep world-building and unforgettable characters, this book is an absolute must-read.
From the very first page, Iryana’s journey grabbed me — a broken but determined guardian fighting to save her people in a land ravaged by beasts and brutal factions. Her mission to infiltrate an enemy brigade isn’t just dangerous — it’s soul-shaking, and her internal struggle to balance duty, trauma, and loyalty made her one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve encountered in fantasy.
The world-building is rich and layered, filled with ancient magic, haunting creatures, and societies on the brink of collapse. Every twist kept me turning pages, hungry to learn more about the metal wells, the war-torn lands, and the fragile hope that binds characters together.
But the heart of this story lies in its characters — their vulnerabilities, fierce loyalties, and emotions so real they hit like a punch. The slow-burn tension, both in battle and in burgeoning relationships, was executed beautifully. I was laughing, crying, and gripped with suspense — sometimes all at once.
Because the Beasts Came is a masterful start to what promises to be an epic duology. If you're a fan of emotionally resonant fantasy with deep world-building and unforgettable characters, this book is an absolute must-read.
February 9, 2026
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.
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.
February 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
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.
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.
September 1, 2025
Not for anyone who doesn't like cool magic systems, deep worldbuilding, intense battles, magical creatures, or feeling things. The characters feel like real people. The dysfunction in Iryana's family was a little bit too relatable, and at the same time the deep love they all have for each other felt genuine. The romantic tension between Iryana and two different men who are bitter enemies of the family she loves deeply but doesn't feel comfortable with was intense. The group of friends who become almost a found family gave me hope that maybe her world can find a way past their internal conflicts so they have an actual chance against the external conflict that will definitely wipe them all out if they don't learn to work together. The villain is yummy and horrifying, sometimes at the exact same time, and I felt legit betrayed when they turned out to be this evil, evil person because I really thought they were The One. This book made me cry in the middle of Starbucks, twice in one day. It's an emotional rollercoaster.
February 23, 2026
Because the Beasts Came is an emotional and adventurous story with a well thought out magic system and world building.
The FMC feels real and Madeline James’s has a way of writing and expressing the character’s anxieties and fears that make the reader feel it too. The FMC, Iryana, grows and heals through out the story as she fights to help save her families’s way of life while battling against her past “monsters” and current beasts that threatens everyone lives and homes.
Because the Beasts Came is a very slow burn with building tension growing between Iryana and MMC. Iryana starts off already strong but broken inside. Despite her fear of failure, she loves her family more and she tries to find a way to help save them. She gains friendship and magic, begins to heal her traumas, and finds love in someone she at first hates.
Overall, it is a great story line that leaves the reader emotionally invested and definitely worth the read.
The FMC feels real and Madeline James’s has a way of writing and expressing the character’s anxieties and fears that make the reader feel it too. The FMC, Iryana, grows and heals through out the story as she fights to help save her families’s way of life while battling against her past “monsters” and current beasts that threatens everyone lives and homes.
Because the Beasts Came is a very slow burn with building tension growing between Iryana and MMC. Iryana starts off already strong but broken inside. Despite her fear of failure, she loves her family more and she tries to find a way to help save them. She gains friendship and magic, begins to heal her traumas, and finds love in someone she at first hates.
Overall, it is a great story line that leaves the reader emotionally invested and definitely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The world building in this book is a fresh new magic system. I really liked the various forging and how each had an advantage - there isn't one clear winner, just different in various scenarios. The whole premise with the FMC being the hero that saves the MMC is fantastic, really refreshing. It would have been nice if the MMC was a bit more complex, other than a nasty brother - he's basically the white knight out of the box. My only other comment on why I didn't give it 5 stars was mostly about the dakii - with so much of the book hinting at their evolution, changing patterns, tactics behaviours - I'm DYING to know where did they come from? Is there something secretly special about them? Maybe it will be in the next book.. but seemed like a bit of a missed opportunity after such rich world building. Definitely will be keeping my eyes peeled for any new titles from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The plot and world-building are deep and well thought out. The author clearly took great care with every character, whether they were central to the story or not, each has their own purpose, backstory, and role to play. The slow-burn romance unfolds at the perfect pace, keeping you wanting more with every chapter. I read this book in under 48 hours and felt a strong connection to the main female character, especially her emotions and the way she carries the weight of her past. This story simmers in every sense of the word, building tension until it almost hurts, in the best way possible. This was a five star read, and I will absolutely be purchasing a copy for my favorites shelf. I’m officially a number-one fan of Madeline James!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️4,25
Usually when I start a new book I look up reviews but went in blind with this one because I got an ARC.
And I am glad I did! Didn't have any expectations but wow, this was really good.
The storytelling is super, grat world building with interesting main characters AND side characters. I think the author represented and discribed Iryanas anxiety well.
Something that made this book a big plus for me was it felt original. The story is not one of all the other fantasy romances. It is its own kind of unique. The magic system was interesting and felt new also.
I would really recomend this book to people that like romantasy because it has a good lovestory, but it is more than that. So if you looking for an immersive fantasy this is the book!
Usually when I start a new book I look up reviews but went in blind with this one because I got an ARC.
And I am glad I did! Didn't have any expectations but wow, this was really good.
The storytelling is super, grat world building with interesting main characters AND side characters. I think the author represented and discribed Iryanas anxiety well.
Something that made this book a big plus for me was it felt original. The story is not one of all the other fantasy romances. It is its own kind of unique. The magic system was interesting and felt new also.
I would really recomend this book to people that like romantasy because it has a good lovestory, but it is more than that. So if you looking for an immersive fantasy this is the book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Because the Beasts Came really grabbed my attention the first chapter. The characters are trapped by mysterious beasts that have overtaken and completely upended their society, pitting factions against each other that really need to work together. James does sone impressive world-building, making it easy to visualize the story as it unfolds. Without revealing too much, the characters endure a huge degree of trauma and have to come to terms with it in order to save themselves and those for whom they are responsible. The romance between Iryana and Pyetar is very slow burn, and deliciously frustrating at times. I’m looking forward to the continuation of their story in Book 2! This book definitely belongs on your TBR list!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am so excited for this book to be published.
I received it as an advanced copy and read it in 2 days. I couldn’t put it down.
I love when books start with a map and a glossary, so that was a good sign. This had great world building and character development. I liked the authors writing style too.
I have been looking for a book where the female main character doesn’t depend on the male main character. Iryana, the FMC, is a badass all on her own, but is still an emotionally raw mess. She didn’t need the MMC to fix her though which was refreshing.
I cannot wait for the next book to come out! This is absolutely one I will suggest to my fantasy book club!
You should read this book!
I received it as an advanced copy and read it in 2 days. I couldn’t put it down.
I love when books start with a map and a glossary, so that was a good sign. This had great world building and character development. I liked the authors writing style too.
I have been looking for a book where the female main character doesn’t depend on the male main character. Iryana, the FMC, is a badass all on her own, but is still an emotionally raw mess. She didn’t need the MMC to fix her though which was refreshing.
I cannot wait for the next book to come out! This is absolutely one I will suggest to my fantasy book club!
You should read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ok, this had such an interesting premise. I was really intrigued by the tropes and the character art, and I went in expecting to love it. But I think I picked it up at the wrong time (I recently had a death in the family), so I couldn’t fully enjoy it the way I wanted to.
It felt a bit unnecessarily long at times, and I ended up skimming through certain parts. But!! By the end, I actually started enjoying it, and I’m really hoping I get the chance to reread it someday and experience it properly, because I feel like it deserves that.
Just because I didn’t fully enjoy it right now doesn’t mean it’s a bad book at all. So please give it a chance, you might end up loving it!
It felt a bit unnecessarily long at times, and I ended up skimming through certain parts. But!! By the end, I actually started enjoying it, and I’m really hoping I get the chance to reread it someday and experience it properly, because I feel like it deserves that.
Just because I didn’t fully enjoy it right now doesn’t mean it’s a bad book at all. So please give it a chance, you might end up loving it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I want to start out by saying I enjoyed this book- the plot was amazing, I LOVE the Slavic inspiration for the names, the magic system too. I felt however, the way the story was narrated I was not as connected to Iryana. I feel as though it too me longer to become emotionally invested in her plight and struggles to save her family. I also wish there was maybe first person POV from her perspective, or a Multi POV from Hadima, Pyeter, and Iryana.
Overall, this story was fantastic, but I felt it dragged a bit until the last 25% of the story. Will I read the next book? Absolutely! And I feel like I would re-read this and expect a slower reveal.
Overall, this story was fantastic, but I felt it dragged a bit until the last 25% of the story. Will I read the next book? Absolutely! And I feel like I would re-read this and expect a slower reveal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Victoria editing NetGalley co-op for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review! WOW. What a wild ride. I had a hard time getting into the book at first and it took a couple tries but once the story picked up..it was beautiful and action packed. As someone who struggles with anxiety and self doubt that crushing feeling of failure….i think i related so much to Iryana. Watching her emotional journey through this story was heartwrenching, real, and beautiful. Realizing that it’s okay to feel scared but not let fear rule you is a lesson I’m learning every single day. I cannot wait to continue her story in book 2. Thank you again NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I don’t have any words for how I’m feeling after finishing this book. As someone who doesn’t frequently read fantasy, I was apprehensive but I fell in love with Iryana’s character development, the slow burn between her and the love interest, and learning all the intricacies of the world of Istri. Such a beautiful story of a broken warrior who pieces herself back together in such an awe inspiring way. The author built the world of Istri so well that I truly felt like I was immersed in it myself. I am already so excited for the sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review from Advance Reader Copy from author through Netgallery
I absolutely loved this book! I was reading it every spare moment I had. the story building and the characters were amazing!
Iryana will do anything to protect her clan from being separated even joining the clan's enemy, the brigade, to find a well to forge her powers.
I absolutely loved this book! I was reading it every spare moment I had. the story building and the characters were amazing!
Iryana will do anything to protect her clan from being separated even joining the clan's enemy, the brigade, to find a well to forge her powers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC! I really enjoyed this book.
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