What do you think?
Rate this book
The Obsidian Academy Duet #1
Ocean of Ink
She can sense emotions.
He’s trained to be emotionless.
Wren’s quiet life is upended when her brother’s body is delivered to her family's estate by the elite academy he was attending. Consumed by grief and bound by a past debt, she goes to the Obsidian Academy to uncover the mystery behind his death and avenge the only person she’s ever trusted.
A deadly forest surrounds the dark halls of the exclusive university, but the competitive, bloodthirsty students might be more vicious than the nightmarish creatures that haunt the woods. The most conniving of them all being Castien Valengard, the only one whose emotions Wren can’t sense. And a man she believes is connected to the secret society her brother was a part of.
Wren devises a plan to uncover Castien’s role in her brother’s death, and in the meantime, works to balance her studies and her secrets. another student is killed.
Stuck on the island with no way out, Wren must find her brother’s killer before she turns into the next victim.
Ocean of Ink is book one of a slow burn romantasy duology set in a dark academy surrounded by magical, deadly waters. If you love mystery, letters, and men who yearn, this series is for you!
He’s trained to be emotionless.
Wren’s quiet life is upended when her brother’s body is delivered to her family's estate by the elite academy he was attending. Consumed by grief and bound by a past debt, she goes to the Obsidian Academy to uncover the mystery behind his death and avenge the only person she’s ever trusted.
A deadly forest surrounds the dark halls of the exclusive university, but the competitive, bloodthirsty students might be more vicious than the nightmarish creatures that haunt the woods. The most conniving of them all being Castien Valengard, the only one whose emotions Wren can’t sense. And a man she believes is connected to the secret society her brother was a part of.
Wren devises a plan to uncover Castien’s role in her brother’s death, and in the meantime, works to balance her studies and her secrets. another student is killed.
Stuck on the island with no way out, Wren must find her brother’s killer before she turns into the next victim.
Ocean of Ink is book one of a slow burn romantasy duology set in a dark academy surrounded by magical, deadly waters. If you love mystery, letters, and men who yearn, this series is for you!
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 21, 2025
91 people are currently reading
790 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
December 5, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. If you want a simple yet creative fantasy world with gothic atmosphere in a dark academia setting of an elite boarding school, rife with cutthroat social politics, and the slow progression of a quiet and gentle, yet significant, love story, I highly recommend!
Stylistically, the narration style fit this story so well. The metaphors were elegant without the writing being too flowery. There was a flourish but it wasn't forced. The layers to the plot and cast of characters intertwined quiet nicely. A sinister unsolved murder hovering in the background added a haunting quality and juxtaposed the sweetness of Castien and Wren's letter exchanges. Everything about how this book was structured was thoughtful. I could picture things well and the chapter transitions flowed seamlessly. I also think the author handled the sensitive topics with the best care. I loved Castien and Wren. Finn added the perfect amount of humor.
When I think about why this didn't give me 5 star feelings I think it's because I wish just a little bit more had happened. The cliffhanger was great though. My heart was pounding. Very excited for book 2!
In this book
-dual-POV
-slow burn
-letters
-opposites attract
-secret pining/yearning
-murder mystery
-forced proximity
-elite academy
Content Guide:
romance - clean
language - clean
violence - brief/infrequent gore
fantasy - enhanced ability "gifts"; monsters
Content Warnings:
-grief
-post-traumatic stress/discreet flashbacks regarding past/childhood SA
-anxiety/panic attacks
-depression/suicide ideation
I thoroughly enjoyed this. If you want a simple yet creative fantasy world with gothic atmosphere in a dark academia setting of an elite boarding school, rife with cutthroat social politics, and the slow progression of a quiet and gentle, yet significant, love story, I highly recommend!
Stylistically, the narration style fit this story so well. The metaphors were elegant without the writing being too flowery. There was a flourish but it wasn't forced. The layers to the plot and cast of characters intertwined quiet nicely. A sinister unsolved murder hovering in the background added a haunting quality and juxtaposed the sweetness of Castien and Wren's letter exchanges. Everything about how this book was structured was thoughtful. I could picture things well and the chapter transitions flowed seamlessly. I also think the author handled the sensitive topics with the best care. I loved Castien and Wren. Finn added the perfect amount of humor.
When I think about why this didn't give me 5 star feelings I think it's because I wish just a little bit more had happened. The cliffhanger was great though. My heart was pounding. Very excited for book 2!
In this book
-dual-POV
-slow burn
-letters
-opposites attract
-secret pining/yearning
-murder mystery
-forced proximity
-elite academy
Content Guide:
romance - clean
language - clean
violence - brief/infrequent gore
fantasy - enhanced ability "gifts"; monsters
Content Warnings:
-grief
-post-traumatic stress/discreet flashbacks regarding past/childhood SA
-anxiety/panic attacks
-depression/suicide ideation
October 31, 2025
"They had shared an ocean of ink, a sea of parchment, all laced with secrets and memories. Somehow, Castien Valengard had become the one person in the Seven Havens that Wren felt safe with."
Ocean of Ink by A R Conwell
Wow!! A.R. Conwell is a master at conveying longing, pining, lots of secrets, and beautifully scripted romantasy. This one will definitely be a top read for me this year!
The letters between Castien and Wren were my favorite parts--My Pompous Prince, Dearest Wren, the banter, sharing memories, secrets, etc.And the moments in the Alcove, when he goes to stop her, the ball...so good, better than good! Words don't even do this story justice.
My heart ached for Wren, what she had experienced in her past, the grief she feels. Conwell did an amazing job conveying perfectly those feelings she was feeling. They seemed to leap off of the page and I felt all the emotions along with Wren.
I really loved how unique, but yet so familiar this world is. Part gothic Victorian set way before then, magical gifts, haunting monsters, and an academy shrouded in mist. Seriously love every part of this new world A.R. Conwell has created.
I am hungry for more of Conwell's delectable romantasy and seriously didn't want the book to end. I savored every last morsel of Ocean of Ink. I definitely recommend this Dark Romantasy for fans of all things Romantasy! Appropriate for ages 17+, maybe a little younger for mature readers.
Favorite Parts:
Longing and Pining
Lots of Secrets
Plot twists
Banter and Letters
Mystery
Slooooow burn romance
The ball
Secret passageways
Handflex
That Cliffhanger!!!!
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Feelings of attraction, sexual assault (past, not detailed)
Violence/gore: Moderate: bodies are described as being ripped open, death
Substance Use: Mild-Adult characters casually drink wine occasionally or wine is mentioned
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Character has what is similar to an extreme panic attack (it's not really a panic attack, but very intense), death, grief, sexual assault (past, not detailed), magic as gifts
Book Info:
Series: Obsidian Academy Duet book 1
Genre: Dark Romantasy
Romance Level: Closed-door
Release Date: Available now
Publisher: Indie
POV: Dual third person
Debut in genre
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
Ocean of Ink by A R Conwell
Wow!! A.R. Conwell is a master at conveying longing, pining, lots of secrets, and beautifully scripted romantasy. This one will definitely be a top read for me this year!
The letters between Castien and Wren were my favorite parts--My Pompous Prince, Dearest Wren, the banter, sharing memories, secrets, etc.And the moments in the Alcove, when he goes to stop her, the ball...so good, better than good! Words don't even do this story justice.
My heart ached for Wren, what she had experienced in her past, the grief she feels. Conwell did an amazing job conveying perfectly those feelings she was feeling. They seemed to leap off of the page and I felt all the emotions along with Wren.
I really loved how unique, but yet so familiar this world is. Part gothic Victorian set way before then, magical gifts, haunting monsters, and an academy shrouded in mist. Seriously love every part of this new world A.R. Conwell has created.
I am hungry for more of Conwell's delectable romantasy and seriously didn't want the book to end. I savored every last morsel of Ocean of Ink. I definitely recommend this Dark Romantasy for fans of all things Romantasy! Appropriate for ages 17+, maybe a little younger for mature readers.
Favorite Parts:
Longing and Pining
Lots of Secrets
Plot twists
Banter and Letters
Mystery
Slooooow burn romance
The ball
Secret passageways
Handflex
That Cliffhanger!!!!
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Closed-door: Feelings of attraction, sexual assault (past, not detailed)
Violence/gore: Moderate: bodies are described as being ripped open, death
Substance Use: Mild-Adult characters casually drink wine occasionally or wine is mentioned
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: Character has what is similar to an extreme panic attack (it's not really a panic attack, but very intense), death, grief, sexual assault (past, not detailed), magic as gifts
Book Info:
Series: Obsidian Academy Duet book 1
Genre: Dark Romantasy
Romance Level: Closed-door
Release Date: Available now
Publisher: Indie
POV: Dual third person
Debut in genre
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
October 16, 2025
|| ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ||
“They had shared an ocean of ink, a sea of parchment, all laced with secrets and memories.”
Couldnt have been more stoked in finding out that one of my all time fave romcom authors was debuting a gothic dark romantasy?? IM SORRY sign me up! It was such an incredible and immersive experience journeying through this haunting and mysterious story Annah has graced us with!
The writing style is beyond beautiful, and so perfectly descriptive. I couldnt help but notice that the world felt SOOO tangible and real. I felt like I was on Whispering Isle with them! 🌬️
The incredible world-building drew me in right from the start, and didnt let up once. And most importantly, its soooo immersive without being overwhelming or overly complicated — which I need! 😅
Wren and Castian’s dynamic completely steal the show. Their correspondence back and forth was so fun to read, but so emotional at the same time. Although… I will still admit that Finn’s character type is right up my alley. I thorougly enjoyed his banter and wit. 🤪
All in all, such a good read. Such a good time. Now I dont know what to do with myself until the second book is released because ANNAH… I NEED ANSWERS 🫠
WHAT TO EXPECT:
💖 BEAUTIFUL slowburn
⚔️ Mysterious deaths
🛡️ Academy training
🤣 Friendships and witty banter
✨ Magical gifts
🖋️ Secret letters
🖤 Gothic atmosphere
🫦 YEARNING
❤️🩹 Emotional turmoil and healing
📖 HUGE thank you to Annah for the opportunity to read this beautiful ARC! I’m beyond excited for what comes next and so grateful to be apart of it all watching Annah make history!
“They had shared an ocean of ink, a sea of parchment, all laced with secrets and memories.”
Couldnt have been more stoked in finding out that one of my all time fave romcom authors was debuting a gothic dark romantasy?? IM SORRY sign me up! It was such an incredible and immersive experience journeying through this haunting and mysterious story Annah has graced us with!
The writing style is beyond beautiful, and so perfectly descriptive. I couldnt help but notice that the world felt SOOO tangible and real. I felt like I was on Whispering Isle with them! 🌬️
The incredible world-building drew me in right from the start, and didnt let up once. And most importantly, its soooo immersive without being overwhelming or overly complicated — which I need! 😅
Wren and Castian’s dynamic completely steal the show. Their correspondence back and forth was so fun to read, but so emotional at the same time. Although… I will still admit that Finn’s character type is right up my alley. I thorougly enjoyed his banter and wit. 🤪
All in all, such a good read. Such a good time. Now I dont know what to do with myself until the second book is released because ANNAH… I NEED ANSWERS 🫠
WHAT TO EXPECT:
💖 BEAUTIFUL slowburn
⚔️ Mysterious deaths
🛡️ Academy training
🤣 Friendships and witty banter
✨ Magical gifts
🖋️ Secret letters
🖤 Gothic atmosphere
🫦 YEARNING
❤️🩹 Emotional turmoil and healing
📖 HUGE thank you to Annah for the opportunity to read this beautiful ARC! I’m beyond excited for what comes next and so grateful to be apart of it all watching Annah make history!
October 30, 2025
Oh my God, where did this book go?? I was soo anxious and fearful of the ending but I actually liked how it ended, I know some heartache is probably around the corner but man, this book went by so fast. I can't express with words alone how much a LOVED the letters, I mean, I was working and in the front of my mind was how gorgeous their letters and words were lol and how perfect Cas and Wren are and how they are helping the other heal without even realizing it.
This book is perfection! I want to reread but I honestly have other things to do lol
Rtc!
----
One of the writer I love ready to step into healthy dark romantasy???? hell yes
This book is perfection! I want to reread but I honestly have other things to do lol
Rtc!
----
One of the writer I love ready to step into healthy dark romantasy???? hell yes
December 18, 2025
⭐️6
OH MY GOODNESS
Annah has done it again! This book couldn’t be more perfect! The yearning! The swoon! Eeek
Castien is literally perfect, this man *swoon*🫠 He helped Wren see herself as a fighter and saw her worth and strength even though she didn’t see it herself🥹😭
Wren was also such an incredible character I loved her so much! I loved how she was the soft light Castien needs in his life 😭
They both found each other and I loved that!
I adore him and Wren so so much! They were the CUTEST EVER!
I love how they exchanged letters and how he was so gentle with her🥰
When Castien gave her sword fighting lessons was one of my most favorite parts 🤭🤩
I NEED the second book DESPERATELY 😭 (help I’m genuinely not okay after that)
Definitely would recommend this gem of a book!🥹🎀
tropes:
🖋️no-spice romantasy
🌊dark academia
🖋️soft MMC
🌊secrets
🖋️they exchange letters
🌊sword fighting lessons
🖋️dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
OH MY GOODNESS
Annah has done it again! This book couldn’t be more perfect! The yearning! The swoon! Eeek
Castien is literally perfect, this man *swoon*🫠 He helped Wren see herself as a fighter and saw her worth and strength even though she didn’t see it herself🥹😭
Wren was also such an incredible character I loved her so much! I loved how she was the soft light Castien needs in his life 😭
They both found each other and I loved that!
I adore him and Wren so so much! They were the CUTEST EVER!
I love how they exchanged letters and how he was so gentle with her🥰
When Castien gave her sword fighting lessons was one of my most favorite parts 🤭🤩
I NEED the second book DESPERATELY 😭 (help I’m genuinely not okay after that)
Definitely would recommend this gem of a book!🥹🎀
tropes:
🖋️no-spice romantasy
🌊dark academia
🖋️soft MMC
🌊secrets
🖋️they exchange letters
🌊sword fighting lessons
🖋️dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
September 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Prince Castien Valengard &
Lady Wren Kalyxi
- Slow burn closed door romantasy
- Letters & mystery
- Emotional healing
- Book part of a duology
- Dark Academia with monsters, hidden passages, and secrets
- Magical deadly waters
- Men who yearn, he falls first & hard
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the world, society, and fashion
- The raw, real, prophetic emotions Wren wars with
- Heron & Wren 🥲
- Finn & Castien
- Ambassador Westover 😂, and his schemes and oddity
- THE LETTERS 👏🏻🥹
- Castien’s gentleness
- Wren’s relentless determination despite her overwhelming doubts
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 1 of the Obsidian Academy Duet - “ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh” was in my notes while reading this book over 50+ times. The surprises, characters’ wit, and veiled confessions kept me screaming in my head and freaking out. The world Annah builds consists of common themes and imagery that is clear. Her prose evokes so much emotion as the characters navigate devastating emotions, circumstances, and expectations. There are different distinct cultures and social rankings in their society which bleed into the academy despite academy’s efforts. Most people in the world have special “Gifts” that can give them special powers or enhance abilities. There are secrets, mystery, and danger around every corner.
I so appreciated the depth of emotion throughout the book. Wren has experienced some of the worst of the worst; however, her loyalty to her brother and fierce determination propel to continue even when she rather succumb to drowning. She has so much stacked against her but she is able to hope even against herself.
Castien is a complex man who also wars with himself for much different reasons. He outwardly doesn’t change his behavior drastically but his thoughts and feelings rapidly change through the book despite his resolve.
I really loved the main characters and the bond they formed even keeping each other at arms length. The side characters also create their own chaos and add to the story in a way that is *chefs kiss*. I definitely want more info on some of these side characters and cannot wait to see who Castien and Wren fully open up to. Also also. I NEED MORE DETAILS TO FIGURE OUT THIS MYSTERY.
I’m dying to see this slow burn finally become the lovers 🫠 alas we got a cliff hanger 😂 IMPATIENTLY WAITING FOR BOOK 2 👏🏻🥲
This is a two part closed door fantasy which includes heavy themes that are tactfully handled. Author has a warning at the beginning of the book that is spoiler free and detailed content warning list with spoilers on her website.
**Thank you so much to Annah for letting me read this gifted ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
Prince Castien Valengard &
Lady Wren Kalyxi
- Slow burn closed door romantasy
- Letters & mystery
- Emotional healing
- Book part of a duology
- Dark Academia with monsters, hidden passages, and secrets
- Magical deadly waters
- Men who yearn, he falls first & hard
✨ a few of my favorite things:
- the world, society, and fashion
- The raw, real, prophetic emotions Wren wars with
- Heron & Wren 🥲
- Finn & Castien
- Ambassador Westover 😂, and his schemes and oddity
- THE LETTERS 👏🏻🥹
- Castien’s gentleness
- Wren’s relentless determination despite her overwhelming doubts
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Book 1 of the Obsidian Academy Duet - “ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh” was in my notes while reading this book over 50+ times. The surprises, characters’ wit, and veiled confessions kept me screaming in my head and freaking out. The world Annah builds consists of common themes and imagery that is clear. Her prose evokes so much emotion as the characters navigate devastating emotions, circumstances, and expectations. There are different distinct cultures and social rankings in their society which bleed into the academy despite academy’s efforts. Most people in the world have special “Gifts” that can give them special powers or enhance abilities. There are secrets, mystery, and danger around every corner.
I so appreciated the depth of emotion throughout the book. Wren has experienced some of the worst of the worst; however, her loyalty to her brother and fierce determination propel to continue even when she rather succumb to drowning. She has so much stacked against her but she is able to hope even against herself.
Castien is a complex man who also wars with himself for much different reasons. He outwardly doesn’t change his behavior drastically but his thoughts and feelings rapidly change through the book despite his resolve.
I really loved the main characters and the bond they formed even keeping each other at arms length. The side characters also create their own chaos and add to the story in a way that is *chefs kiss*. I definitely want more info on some of these side characters and cannot wait to see who Castien and Wren fully open up to. Also also. I NEED MORE DETAILS TO FIGURE OUT THIS MYSTERY.
I’m dying to see this slow burn finally become the lovers 🫠 alas we got a cliff hanger 😂 IMPATIENTLY WAITING FOR BOOK 2 👏🏻🥲
This is a two part closed door fantasy which includes heavy themes that are tactfully handled. Author has a warning at the beginning of the book that is spoiler free and detailed content warning list with spoilers on her website.
**Thank you so much to Annah for letting me read this gifted ARC. No positive review was required. All thoughts are my own.**
October 4, 2025
I was so excited and intrigued that one of my favorite romcom authors was debuting a dark fantasy book and it did not disappoint!
This story had all of the best elements of a romantic fantasy - angst, tension, secrets, slow burn - without any spice or explicit content. It almost had the vibes of Harry Potter with lighter/softer magical elements yet was still very eerie.
Though this book is closed door, it was by no means cheesy or shallow. The story has several serious, complex, and heavy themes unveiled throughout that broke my heart and made me righteously angry. I enjoyed how the darker topics were handled in a sensitive manner while still showing the gravity of things like death, grief, and past trauma. Seeing both Wren and Castien face their pasts and be vulnerable with each other was so beautiful to read! Plus with that ending… I need book two ASAP!
I cried and laughed reading this story. I could tell how much AR Conwell poured into this book. It felt raw and personal yet so full of hope, even amidst the darkness.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Warnings: death of a sibling, grief/depression, mentions of childhood sexual assault (not graphic/descriptive), murder/violence
This story had all of the best elements of a romantic fantasy - angst, tension, secrets, slow burn - without any spice or explicit content. It almost had the vibes of Harry Potter with lighter/softer magical elements yet was still very eerie.
Though this book is closed door, it was by no means cheesy or shallow. The story has several serious, complex, and heavy themes unveiled throughout that broke my heart and made me righteously angry. I enjoyed how the darker topics were handled in a sensitive manner while still showing the gravity of things like death, grief, and past trauma. Seeing both Wren and Castien face their pasts and be vulnerable with each other was so beautiful to read! Plus with that ending… I need book two ASAP!
I cried and laughed reading this story. I could tell how much AR Conwell poured into this book. It felt raw and personal yet so full of hope, even amidst the darkness.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content Warnings: death of a sibling, grief/depression, mentions of childhood sexual assault (not graphic/descriptive), murder/violence
October 26, 2025
•───── 4.5/5★ ─────•
««« 𝒞ℴ𝓃𝓉ℯ𝓃𝓉 »»»
➸ Sexual Content: no spice - no kisses
➸ Language: none
➸ Content ﹢ Trigger Warnings (sᴘᴏɪʟᴇʀs!):
««« 𝒟ℯ𝓉𝒶𝒾𝓁𝓈 »»»
➸ Genre: fantasy
➸ POV: third person, dual pov
➸ Tropes ﹢ Themes (sᴘᴏɪʟᴇʀs!):
➸ Age of FMC: 20 years old
➸ Age of MMC: not given (but seems to be of similar age)
•─────⋅°˖✧✿✧˖°⋅─────•
««« 𝒞ℴ𝓃𝓉ℯ𝓃𝓉 »»»
➸ Sexual Content: no spice - no kisses
➸ Language: none
➸ Content ﹢ Trigger Warnings (sᴘᴏɪʟᴇʀs!):
««« 𝒟ℯ𝓉𝒶𝒾𝓁𝓈 »»»
➸ Genre: fantasy
➸ POV: third person, dual pov
➸ Tropes ﹢ Themes (sᴘᴏɪʟᴇʀs!):
➸ Age of FMC: 20 years old
➸ Age of MMC: not given (but seems to be of similar age)
•─────⋅°˖✧✿✧˖°⋅─────•
November 6, 2025
4.75 ⭐️ rounded up!
𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: Regency/Victorian era, in an area known as Seven Havens; most of the book is set at an Elite boarding school known as Obsidian Academy, on a mist covered & isolated island that is surrounded by a dangerous forest. It is definitely atmospheric & gothic feeling! 🖤
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: I was so pleasantly surprised by this book! I loved the atmosphere, the murder mystery added a lot of intrigue and kept me turning the pages, I enjoyed that the magic system was subdued and didn’t overpower the plot or the romance, but THE ROMANCE was where this book really landed hard for me emotionally 💘 our FMC Wren was dealing with both past trauma and also the grief of losing her brother, and she was so strong but also very human in dealing with those emotions. Castien, our MMC, falls first and was DOWN BAD! He really worked hard to win her over, but in the gentlest & most compassionate way while Wren was suffering. But 👏 their 👏 banter 👏 was so funny! I laughed with them, I cried with them (and I don’t cry from a book very often!) This was a really, REALLY enjoyable read for me and I believe it was the right book, the right time!
My only true gripe with this book is that for some of the fantasy elements and plot points to be so prominently featured in the synopsis, they really were not flushed out or expounded on. And because there wasn’t a lot of detail and inclusion, they felt a little tropey. (Examples: magic system, secret society, deadly woodland creatures). If these things were built up more, this would easily have been a 6 ⭐️ read for me! I believe this is the author’s first fantasy novel, so I have grace for that and will hopefully expect more in the second book!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞:
🖤 Regency/Victorian gothic romantasy
🖋️ Murder mystery
🖤 Deep love between siblings
🖋️ Political Intrigue
🖤 Emotional healing
🖋️ Dark academia
💘 No spice; no kissing; emotional connection only
🤬 No profanity
‼️ 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 ‼️
Implied SA (off-page, not described), panic attacks, depression, suicidal ideations, moderately graphic depictions of murder victims (violence off-page).
𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: Regency/Victorian era, in an area known as Seven Havens; most of the book is set at an Elite boarding school known as Obsidian Academy, on a mist covered & isolated island that is surrounded by a dangerous forest. It is definitely atmospheric & gothic feeling! 🖤
𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰: I was so pleasantly surprised by this book! I loved the atmosphere, the murder mystery added a lot of intrigue and kept me turning the pages, I enjoyed that the magic system was subdued and didn’t overpower the plot or the romance, but THE ROMANCE was where this book really landed hard for me emotionally 💘 our FMC Wren was dealing with both past trauma and also the grief of losing her brother, and she was so strong but also very human in dealing with those emotions. Castien, our MMC, falls first and was DOWN BAD! He really worked hard to win her over, but in the gentlest & most compassionate way while Wren was suffering. But 👏 their 👏 banter 👏 was so funny! I laughed with them, I cried with them (and I don’t cry from a book very often!) This was a really, REALLY enjoyable read for me and I believe it was the right book, the right time!
My only true gripe with this book is that for some of the fantasy elements and plot points to be so prominently featured in the synopsis, they really were not flushed out or expounded on. And because there wasn’t a lot of detail and inclusion, they felt a little tropey. (Examples: magic system, secret society, deadly woodland creatures). If these things were built up more, this would easily have been a 6 ⭐️ read for me! I believe this is the author’s first fantasy novel, so I have grace for that and will hopefully expect more in the second book!
𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞:
🖤 Regency/Victorian gothic romantasy
🖋️ Murder mystery
🖤 Deep love between siblings
🖋️ Political Intrigue
🖤 Emotional healing
🖋️ Dark academia
💘 No spice; no kissing; emotional connection only
🤬 No profanity
‼️ 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 ‼️
Implied SA (off-page, not described), panic attacks, depression, suicidal ideations, moderately graphic depictions of murder victims (violence off-page).
October 27, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Was it good? Yes
Best book ever? No
Not bad for her first fantasy though! Some of the plot elements were scattered which was weird and it took me a hot second to get into the style of writing but the detail was very interesting and fun to read!
Was it good? Yes
Best book ever? No
Not bad for her first fantasy though! Some of the plot elements were scattered which was weird and it took me a hot second to get into the style of writing but the detail was very interesting and fun to read!
October 20, 2025
This book CAPTIVATED me. From the very first page, I was always thinking about it even when doing other things. Wren is exactly the heroine I’d love to see more of in romantasy novels. Sweet, kind, feminine, and gentle. I am still blown away that this is A.R. Conwell’s FIRST fantasy book! It was so amazing!
And Castien. How on earth was I supposed to not smile at the way he thinks about Wren?? If you want yearning and pining then read this book! It does not get much better than this! I thought his Gift was so interesting and the way it focuses on Wren was just soooo good!
I’m so eager to find out what happens next and so upset that I have to wait for the next book! Wren and Castien (as well as Finn) definitely have my heart!
I was graciously gifted an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
And Castien. How on earth was I supposed to not smile at the way he thinks about Wren?? If you want yearning and pining then read this book! It does not get much better than this! I thought his Gift was so interesting and the way it focuses on Wren was just soooo good!
I’m so eager to find out what happens next and so upset that I have to wait for the next book! Wren and Castien (as well as Finn) definitely have my heart!
I was graciously gifted an ARC copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 2, 2025
3.5⭐️
I’m gonna round up because overall I did enjoy this book, and I know this author can deliver. I think this book was better than just good, but ultimately I was left wanting. This author is an established romance writer under the name Annah Conwell and I have read and really enjoyed the entirety of her Carter Brothers series. I was excited to see her venturing into the fantasy realm! All that to say, I was able to have a lot of grace for this being a debut in a new genre. I hope she writes more fantasy romance as I’m sure she’ll get better at her craft in this space over time!
One of the things I enjoy about the fantasy genre is the world building. I like to get to know new realms and what makes them unique. How do the politics work? What are the cultures like? Are there magic systems? What’s the geography like? Should we feel like we’ve gone back in time? This story almost completely takes place at Obsidian Academy yet I know almost nothing about it. What is its history? What kind of school is it? I wanted so much more world building than we got in Oceans of Ink. I felt like we were dropped down into the world and not given much to set the scene.
A big part of the story is the mysterious and secretive Order, which Castien is the head of. I wanted more details about this Order other than being told it’s a Big Secret and Super Important. What do they do? How does it work? How has it stayed secret from the staff? (Or has it?!) It seems to consume all of Castien’s time and energy yet all we see of the Order actually doing anything on the page is a 10 minute meeting that happens one time.
I also felt the writing was a little repetitive in the beginning. It seemed like I couldn’t go two pages without coming across the word “investigation.” It was almost as if the author wasn’t quite sure how to navigate and settle in to this new genre of storytelling.
And with all of the talk and mentioning of investigations, we’re still left with almost no answers by the end. Castien’s plot line opens with him seeking explanations and evidence regarding Heron’s murder. But once school starts that all disappears, or seems to. Nothing on the page comes about from the School Administration looking into things. And Wren doesn’t investigate so much as she tries to decipher her brother’s journal. But I will say, she does make progress by the end of the book. There are multiple dead bodies by the time we’re through and I can only hope book 2 addresses this storyline more thoroughly.
So where does this book SHINE? Conwell really hit her stride once the letter writing began. 💌 Naturally so, as this is where the romance enters the scene. The letters were done so well and they were my favorite part of the book! And the dance scene at the end, sigh… This is the first time I’ve ever highlighted something in my kindle. So many sentences were beautiful and swoon worthy!
Conwell also introduces early on a very HARD backstory for Wren, but she does so gently. She does not shy away from things, but is also tactful. I’m ready to watch how this aspect of the story plays out between Castien and Wren in book two. I can only imagine it will be sweet and tender.
I almost wish this was not a duology but a really long standalone! I do recommend this if you’re looking for a spice free fantasy romance. I have faith book 2 is going to answer all of my questions and definitely deliver on the romance. I know Conwell can write a good book, so I believe I will be left loving this series overall.
I’m gonna round up because overall I did enjoy this book, and I know this author can deliver. I think this book was better than just good, but ultimately I was left wanting. This author is an established romance writer under the name Annah Conwell and I have read and really enjoyed the entirety of her Carter Brothers series. I was excited to see her venturing into the fantasy realm! All that to say, I was able to have a lot of grace for this being a debut in a new genre. I hope she writes more fantasy romance as I’m sure she’ll get better at her craft in this space over time!
One of the things I enjoy about the fantasy genre is the world building. I like to get to know new realms and what makes them unique. How do the politics work? What are the cultures like? Are there magic systems? What’s the geography like? Should we feel like we’ve gone back in time? This story almost completely takes place at Obsidian Academy yet I know almost nothing about it. What is its history? What kind of school is it? I wanted so much more world building than we got in Oceans of Ink. I felt like we were dropped down into the world and not given much to set the scene.
A big part of the story is the mysterious and secretive Order, which Castien is the head of. I wanted more details about this Order other than being told it’s a Big Secret and Super Important. What do they do? How does it work? How has it stayed secret from the staff? (Or has it?!) It seems to consume all of Castien’s time and energy yet all we see of the Order actually doing anything on the page is a 10 minute meeting that happens one time.
I also felt the writing was a little repetitive in the beginning. It seemed like I couldn’t go two pages without coming across the word “investigation.” It was almost as if the author wasn’t quite sure how to navigate and settle in to this new genre of storytelling.
And with all of the talk and mentioning of investigations, we’re still left with almost no answers by the end. Castien’s plot line opens with him seeking explanations and evidence regarding Heron’s murder. But once school starts that all disappears, or seems to. Nothing on the page comes about from the School Administration looking into things. And Wren doesn’t investigate so much as she tries to decipher her brother’s journal. But I will say, she does make progress by the end of the book. There are multiple dead bodies by the time we’re through and I can only hope book 2 addresses this storyline more thoroughly.
So where does this book SHINE? Conwell really hit her stride once the letter writing began. 💌 Naturally so, as this is where the romance enters the scene. The letters were done so well and they were my favorite part of the book! And the dance scene at the end, sigh… This is the first time I’ve ever highlighted something in my kindle. So many sentences were beautiful and swoon worthy!
Conwell also introduces early on a very HARD backstory for Wren, but she does so gently. She does not shy away from things, but is also tactful. I’m ready to watch how this aspect of the story plays out between Castien and Wren in book two. I can only imagine it will be sweet and tender.
I almost wish this was not a duology but a really long standalone! I do recommend this if you’re looking for a spice free fantasy romance. I have faith book 2 is going to answer all of my questions and definitely deliver on the romance. I know Conwell can write a good book, so I believe I will be left loving this series overall.
October 21, 2025
MY REVIEW OF THIS CUTIE! 🥰 happy pub day @authorarconwell
I was so blessed to be part of the A.R.C Society so I read this one and have my review!
My rating: 5 🌟
Feelings: obsessed, emotionally attached, sad I finished it, ready for the next one! 💗✨
Spice: 🌶️ none
Language: 0
My thoughts: 💭
I love this world so much and I loved the story, the only thing I am sad about is that I wish it would have continued lol 😂 I know it will in the next book and I am so ready to get more of Castien and Wren! 💗 I love every single aspect of this story, the way Wren can feel others emotions and the way Castien has been trained to suppress them……? Genius! 💗
There’s a lot of pain that our wren is going through and there’s so many secrets! I loved that we had forced proximity and let me tell you the way that we get to that point had me kicking my feet and giggling! 🤭
Annah Conwell writing a romantasy is literally one of the best things that has happened this year. We need more swooning and yearning romantasy without the spice or language! 💗✨📖
I loved this book!
You can read it now on KU and order it on paperback! 💗✨📖🎀
Happy reading, I’m a bit jealous that you get to read this for the 1st time 💗✨📖🕯️
I was so blessed to be part of the A.R.C Society so I read this one and have my review!
My rating: 5 🌟
Feelings: obsessed, emotionally attached, sad I finished it, ready for the next one! 💗✨
Spice: 🌶️ none
Language: 0
My thoughts: 💭
I love this world so much and I loved the story, the only thing I am sad about is that I wish it would have continued lol 😂 I know it will in the next book and I am so ready to get more of Castien and Wren! 💗 I love every single aspect of this story, the way Wren can feel others emotions and the way Castien has been trained to suppress them……? Genius! 💗
There’s a lot of pain that our wren is going through and there’s so many secrets! I loved that we had forced proximity and let me tell you the way that we get to that point had me kicking my feet and giggling! 🤭
Annah Conwell writing a romantasy is literally one of the best things that has happened this year. We need more swooning and yearning romantasy without the spice or language! 💗✨📖
I loved this book!
You can read it now on KU and order it on paperback! 💗✨📖🎀
Happy reading, I’m a bit jealous that you get to read this for the 1st time 💗✨📖🕯️
October 28, 2025
(Clean NA Romantasy)
Ocean of Ink By A.R. Conwell
Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!! WHAT WAS THAT ENDING???! (If y’all read this prepare for an evil cliffhanger! 😂💀) The beginning was a bit slow for me at least lol but i started loving it as soon as it started picking up pace 😍
And I really like Wren and Castien - AND THEIR LETTERS 🤭🤭
I need the second book NOW.. it’s not just a want, it’s a NEED
How could you do that to us dear author?!!
4.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
review to come! 🥰🥰
Ocean of Ink By A.R. Conwell
Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!! WHAT WAS THAT ENDING???! (If y’all read this prepare for an evil cliffhanger! 😂💀) The beginning was a bit slow for me at least lol but i started loving it as soon as it started picking up pace 😍
And I really like Wren and Castien - AND THEIR LETTERS 🤭🤭
I need the second book NOW.. it’s not just a want, it’s a NEED
How could you do that to us dear author?!!
4.5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
review to come! 🥰🥰
October 15, 2025
Annah’s debut into dark romantasy was one of my most anticipated reads this month and I’m thrilled to say it did not disappoint! The world she has created is unique and the Gifts people receive are a fun twist to a magic system. Wren (our FMC) started out full of grief and guilt, but I thought she had a nice, yet subtle growth arc building. The portrayal of her struggling with childhood SA was well done- not descriptive and still carefully portrayed through her trauma symptoms. I enjoyed reading from Castien’s POV because he’s clearly fallen already for Wren but he’s too preoccupied to realize it. There’s so much intrigue and mystery surrounding the academy, including the untimely death of a few students. This is book 1 of a duet, so there is a cliffhanger, but a wonderful introduction to this world nonetheless. I’m looking forward to book 2 already!
October 13, 2025
This book! I paced myself wanting it not to end which is something I almost never do. The end still came too fast and with a cliff hanger to boot 😭😱. Brilliant, completely sucked in, next book right now please 😂
The world building is spot on and so is the character development. My favourite touch was the letters throughout the story.
The world building is spot on and so is the character development. My favourite touch was the letters throughout the story.
November 16, 2025
I always enjoy when authors branch out into new genres, so when I saw that Annah Conwell had dipped her toes into Fantasy, I knew I had to pick this one up. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres, and I think Conwell did a solid job with her first foray into it. I liked it!
This story leans more toward dark fantasy–mystery. Wren is determined to uncover what happened to her beloved brother, so she pushes through her fears and enrolls in the elite academy he once attended. I really liked Wren’s determination; she refuses to let fear hold her back, even though her fragile moments and unique ability sometimes weaken her. Her ability itself is intriguing, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book. I enjoyed Castien as well—especially the moments they share together.
I did feel the mystery threads could have been fleshed out a bit more. At the start, Castien is laser-focused on discovering what happened to Wren’s brother, but that urgency seems to fade once Wren actually arrives at the academy. I also wished The Order had been explored in more depth.
The book has a slower start, but the second half really picks up. I liked the dynamic between Wren and Castien, and the letters woven throughout were a fun touch. The ending is abrupt (I knew there was a cliffhanger), but I still expected a bit more progress with the murder investigation before it wrapped.
Overall, I’ll definitely be reading the next book and am looking forward to its release.
Content:
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Some vague references to past child SA (which I personally felt wasn’t necessary and made things a little too dark), plus mentions of murder and death. Nothing graphic or descriptive.
This story leans more toward dark fantasy–mystery. Wren is determined to uncover what happened to her beloved brother, so she pushes through her fears and enrolls in the elite academy he once attended. I really liked Wren’s determination; she refuses to let fear hold her back, even though her fragile moments and unique ability sometimes weaken her. Her ability itself is intriguing, and I’m looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book. I enjoyed Castien as well—especially the moments they share together.
I did feel the mystery threads could have been fleshed out a bit more. At the start, Castien is laser-focused on discovering what happened to Wren’s brother, but that urgency seems to fade once Wren actually arrives at the academy. I also wished The Order had been explored in more depth.
The book has a slower start, but the second half really picks up. I liked the dynamic between Wren and Castien, and the letters woven throughout were a fun touch. The ending is abrupt (I knew there was a cliffhanger), but I still expected a bit more progress with the murder investigation before it wrapped.
Overall, I’ll definitely be reading the next book and am looking forward to its release.
Content:
Romance: Clean
Language: None
Violence: Mild. Some vague references to past child SA (which I personally felt wasn’t necessary and made things a little too dark), plus mentions of murder and death. Nothing graphic or descriptive.
October 28, 2025
Wow! This story had me riveted until the very last sentence, and honestly, I’m still thinking about it. The way the author weaves together the suspense and mystery, particularly with the conflicting aspect of Castien’s training and Wren’s ‘Curse,’ is a masterpiece of writing.
The plot introduces us to Wren, whose fierce loyalty to her brother and desperate need for answers leads her to the academy. She must hide her ‘Gift’ (which she sees only as a curse) while battling a strict bargain with her father: become the best in her class or face a dreaded betrothal.
Meanwhile, Castien is deeply involved in a secret society at the academy. With members of the society being mysteriously murdered on campus, Castien and his allies are frantically searching for clues. The palpable tension between Castien and Wren, combined with the escalating danger, is pure fire!
What truly has a hold on my heart and mind is the author’s handling of deep topics like grief, trauma, and secrets. The world-building is rich and immersive, leaving me longing for more and desperate to jump back into the academy and secret society.
I enjoyed so many details: the mystery, the letters, the clever magic system, the dynamic between Castien and Finn, Kierana’s acceptance of Wren, the class assignment, the lessons, and Adira’s ball.
I’m currently rereading the whole thing again to see if I can pick up on any clues I missed the first time since the ending of this book is an epic cliffhanger!
Thank you to the author for my advanced gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The plot introduces us to Wren, whose fierce loyalty to her brother and desperate need for answers leads her to the academy. She must hide her ‘Gift’ (which she sees only as a curse) while battling a strict bargain with her father: become the best in her class or face a dreaded betrothal.
Meanwhile, Castien is deeply involved in a secret society at the academy. With members of the society being mysteriously murdered on campus, Castien and his allies are frantically searching for clues. The palpable tension between Castien and Wren, combined with the escalating danger, is pure fire!
What truly has a hold on my heart and mind is the author’s handling of deep topics like grief, trauma, and secrets. The world-building is rich and immersive, leaving me longing for more and desperate to jump back into the academy and secret society.
I enjoyed so many details: the mystery, the letters, the clever magic system, the dynamic between Castien and Finn, Kierana’s acceptance of Wren, the class assignment, the lessons, and Adira’s ball.
I’m currently rereading the whole thing again to see if I can pick up on any clues I missed the first time since the ending of this book is an epic cliffhanger!
Thank you to the author for my advanced gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 28, 2025
How can I put my thoughts into words 😭 this book was hauntingly beautiful, devastatingly romantic, and eerily mysterious 🕯️ from the setting to the characters A R Conwell blew me AWAY with her debut fantasy 🌊
Wren. “I am made of scars” 🥀 after loosing her brother, Wren is determined to find his murd*rer. But Obsidian Academy is a place where secrets are treasured and everything is a game ♟️ i loved her softness and goodness, and my HEART oh my gosh my heart 🩷 she has so much weighing on her and I can’t wait to continue reading about her growth 🌸
Castien. Cool headed, and leader to the core, Castien’s entire world is turned upside down when a member of his Order is brutally murd*red 😶🌫️ In the midst of trying to figure it out, Wren appears 🪶 His gift of strategy latches on to her, and soon Castien is driven to the point of obsession 🤭 This man is ✨ OBSESSED ✨ and it is GLORIOUS.
The slow burn is INSANE y’all 🔥 Like, SLOW but SO WORTH IT 💗 like Mr Darcy hand flex levels 🫠
And the side characters?! I have to shoutout Finn 🤭 Blonde flirty sarcastic man? SIGN ME UP 😏
The mystery in this book is chefs kiss 💋 and the letters?! MY HEART the banter, the heart wrenching honesty, the romance 🪶 perfection. And the atmosphere of the entire book was just amazing 🖤 🌊
⚠️ CW: for the sake of avoiding spoilers, A. R. Conwell has them on her website, as well as the front of her book. This book deals with HEAVY and emotional themes, and remains closed door with no swearing ⚠️
Wren. “I am made of scars” 🥀 after loosing her brother, Wren is determined to find his murd*rer. But Obsidian Academy is a place where secrets are treasured and everything is a game ♟️ i loved her softness and goodness, and my HEART oh my gosh my heart 🩷 she has so much weighing on her and I can’t wait to continue reading about her growth 🌸
Castien. Cool headed, and leader to the core, Castien’s entire world is turned upside down when a member of his Order is brutally murd*red 😶🌫️ In the midst of trying to figure it out, Wren appears 🪶 His gift of strategy latches on to her, and soon Castien is driven to the point of obsession 🤭 This man is ✨ OBSESSED ✨ and it is GLORIOUS.
The slow burn is INSANE y’all 🔥 Like, SLOW but SO WORTH IT 💗 like Mr Darcy hand flex levels 🫠
And the side characters?! I have to shoutout Finn 🤭 Blonde flirty sarcastic man? SIGN ME UP 😏
The mystery in this book is chefs kiss 💋 and the letters?! MY HEART the banter, the heart wrenching honesty, the romance 🪶 perfection. And the atmosphere of the entire book was just amazing 🖤 🌊
⚠️ CW: for the sake of avoiding spoilers, A. R. Conwell has them on her website, as well as the front of her book. This book deals with HEAVY and emotional themes, and remains closed door with no swearing ⚠️
October 26, 2025
Ocean of Ink
A.R. Conwell
5/5 stars
Publication date: out now and on kindle unlimited!
Have you ever seen the movie, Never Been Kissed? Remember the part where Cynthia tells Josie, “girl.. you ARE a writer” ? This was the line going through my head the whole time I read this book because I can’t believe this is a romantasy debut!! This book gave me Pride and Prejudice dark romantasy vibes. Wren decides to attend the prestigious Obsidian Academy after her beloved brother is found there murdered. With only his journal to guide her, Wren has to solve the mystery of what happened to him. Everyone at the academy has “gifts” and Wren befriends Prince Castien who is the only one who gives her peace from hers.
I highly recommend this book! It is a slow burn, closed door, dark romantasy/mystery with lots of banter that makes you want to keep reading. The imagery throughout the story was captivating. I can’t wait for the next one!
A.R. Conwell
5/5 stars
Publication date: out now and on kindle unlimited!
Have you ever seen the movie, Never Been Kissed? Remember the part where Cynthia tells Josie, “girl.. you ARE a writer” ? This was the line going through my head the whole time I read this book because I can’t believe this is a romantasy debut!! This book gave me Pride and Prejudice dark romantasy vibes. Wren decides to attend the prestigious Obsidian Academy after her beloved brother is found there murdered. With only his journal to guide her, Wren has to solve the mystery of what happened to him. Everyone at the academy has “gifts” and Wren befriends Prince Castien who is the only one who gives her peace from hers.
I highly recommend this book! It is a slow burn, closed door, dark romantasy/mystery with lots of banter that makes you want to keep reading. The imagery throughout the story was captivating. I can’t wait for the next one!
October 22, 2025
honestly, i had know idea what to expect going into this. all i knew was that i love annah’s romcoms so i had no doubt i’d enjoy this. not only was i not disappointed, but this was beyond better than anything i could have imagined.
i feel like we’ve really only scratched the surface with this book between the mysterious murders and budding romance. i loved the dark academia setting and the world building was simple and familiar in the best way. i really enjoyed the magic and how Gifts are bestowed to those who have been dipped in the Tides. i felt it was unique and nothing i’ve seen before in romantasy. i’m excited to see how it builds as we get further into the story.
the romance in this is really just starting to build. if you’re looking for a romance heavy book one, this is not it. but fear not, the yearning in this story brings the sweetest ache. castien yearns for wren like no other and the glimpses into his emotions at the end cracked my heart wide open. this is going to ultimately be a slow burn that wrecks me and i am here for it. wren is understandably delicate, so i can’t wait to see how the romance unfolds. i loved the letters between wren and castien and i hope we get more in the next book.
this book has a full cast of interesting secondary characters. the flirtatious finn and overprotective kierana were among my favorites! although i have a feeling that someone we trust isn’t really who the say they are or there will be some sort of betrayal. whatever happens, im so excited for book two and will be eagerly anticipating its release.
content: lots of pining and yearning
thank you to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
i feel like we’ve really only scratched the surface with this book between the mysterious murders and budding romance. i loved the dark academia setting and the world building was simple and familiar in the best way. i really enjoyed the magic and how Gifts are bestowed to those who have been dipped in the Tides. i felt it was unique and nothing i’ve seen before in romantasy. i’m excited to see how it builds as we get further into the story.
the romance in this is really just starting to build. if you’re looking for a romance heavy book one, this is not it. but fear not, the yearning in this story brings the sweetest ache. castien yearns for wren like no other and the glimpses into his emotions at the end cracked my heart wide open. this is going to ultimately be a slow burn that wrecks me and i am here for it. wren is understandably delicate, so i can’t wait to see how the romance unfolds. i loved the letters between wren and castien and i hope we get more in the next book.
this book has a full cast of interesting secondary characters. the flirtatious finn and overprotective kierana were among my favorites! although i have a feeling that someone we trust isn’t really who the say they are or there will be some sort of betrayal. whatever happens, im so excited for book two and will be eagerly anticipating its release.
content: lots of pining and yearning
thank you to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
October 25, 2025
Really really good. Deep and mysterious without being overly creepy. It’s a bit slow moving because it is truly the first half of the entire story. Maybe wait until book 2 is available so you can devour it all at one time. Worth the read if you like the Hogwarts vibe
November 14, 2025
Edit: the more I think about this book the more I love it.
“What a privilege,” she murmured. “To have love be your greatest weakness.”
I really enjoyed this book! I am very thankful the second on the horizon or I wouldn’t have been able to handle the cliffhanger!
Their letters made the book for me. 🤎
“What a privilege,” she murmured. “To have love be your greatest weakness.”
I really enjoyed this book! I am very thankful the second on the horizon or I wouldn’t have been able to handle the cliffhanger!
Their letters made the book for me. 🤎
October 27, 2025
I picked up this book because I love Annah Conwell’s clean RomComs and I was curious about her foray into Romantasy. Oceans of Ink did not disappoint! This book was full of mystery, romance, magic, and secrets!
Wren chooses to go to Obsidian Academy after her brother’s mysterious death. She has his journal and her own magical gift but the school is competitive, some of the students are hostile, and there are more secrets then she can keep track of. Enter Castien. He has plenty of secrets of his own, but when a class project brings them together, he can’t help but be drawn to Wren despite the risk of exposure.
I am glad this series is a duology because I can’t wait for the sequel! I’m so excited to see where this story goes, and thrilled that it will wrap up in only one more book. I need answers! And kissing!
Wren chooses to go to Obsidian Academy after her brother’s mysterious death. She has his journal and her own magical gift but the school is competitive, some of the students are hostile, and there are more secrets then she can keep track of. Enter Castien. He has plenty of secrets of his own, but when a class project brings them together, he can’t help but be drawn to Wren despite the risk of exposure.
I am glad this series is a duology because I can’t wait for the sequel! I’m so excited to see where this story goes, and thrilled that it will wrap up in only one more book. I need answers! And kissing!
October 6, 2025
LOVED this book! Can't wait for book 2 of this duology! This is a book where I want to reread it right away. These characters! 🩷
-Dual POVs
-A secret society
-Suspicious deaths
-Desire for justice
-A traumatic past
-She feels other's emotions & he hides his emotions
*Received an ARC, opinions are my own.
-Dual POVs
-A secret society
-Suspicious deaths
-Desire for justice
-A traumatic past
-She feels other's emotions & he hides his emotions
*Received an ARC, opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
Reader’s Notes:
– this is the first of a duology & must be read in order
– this is told from Wren & Castien’s points of view
-the ‘magic’ of this series is like a higher inner aptitude for something (like discerning emotions, strategy, etc)
-there is some fantasy violence & death (some of this includes mentions of bodies who were taken apart/cut open – not too much detail, but enough to understand how bad the situation is)
-there are some mentions/descriptions of some of the creatures (cryptura) in the woods surrounding the school (can be on the creepy side, though they are not often described in this book)
-there are mentions alluding to a past event/encounter that caused a character to act out of character & later is given a bit more description; this event mentions that another character is a monster & the monster was touching another’s knee (alluding to sexual assault, but not shown further than this)
-it is mentioned that a character used to think of ending their life
Review:
I was hooked only a few chapters in! If life didn’t keep getting in the way, I definitely would have read the book in one sitting! And I loved it so much I was extremely glad that book 2’s preorder was already up! (Though I obviously wished the book was just ready to read now!) 😅
I loved getting to know this world and how different things worked! I loved learning about the various gifts people received and how some chose to use them/how it affected their lives. I LOVED getting to know Wren, Castien, and their close friends. I especially loved seeing Castien with his cousin and how Finn knew just which buttons to push in order to get Castien to react to something. I also loved Castien & Wren’s letters and how their method’s of letter writing/topic/delivery changed over time. I loved seeing their personalities come out more and more through them and that it drew them closer than either of them expected it to. 😍
I can’t wait to find out what’s going to happen next!
Summary:
Wren dreamed of a quiet life with visits from her brother, but all of those dreams are shattered when her brother’s body is delivered from the elite academy he’d been attending. And with him come clues pointing to her brother’s death being much more than anyone is telling her. Wren will do anything to avenge her brother, even if it means going to the academy in his stead in order to bring his killer to justice herself. And Wren knows that Castien Valengard at the very least is connected to her brother if not involved with his death based off what she’s already learned…
Castien makes it his business to know what’s going on around the campus and is determined to find who’s behind the death of one of the students. But all his plans are thwarted by the start of school and the students returning to campus. Especially when the deceased student’s sister joins the ranks after hearing for years that she’d never come to the academy. Castien is certain that Wren has a different agenda than the one she’s telling people. The only question is, will she help or hurt his own efforts in hunting down the killer threatening life at the Obsidian Academy?
– this is the first of a duology & must be read in order
– this is told from Wren & Castien’s points of view
-the ‘magic’ of this series is like a higher inner aptitude for something (like discerning emotions, strategy, etc)
-there is some fantasy violence & death (some of this includes mentions of bodies who were taken apart/cut open – not too much detail, but enough to understand how bad the situation is)
-there are some mentions/descriptions of some of the creatures (cryptura) in the woods surrounding the school (can be on the creepy side, though they are not often described in this book)
-there are mentions alluding to a past event/encounter that caused a character to act out of character & later is given a bit more description; this event mentions that another character is a monster & the monster was touching another’s knee (alluding to sexual assault, but not shown further than this)
-it is mentioned that a character used to think of ending their life
Review:
I was hooked only a few chapters in! If life didn’t keep getting in the way, I definitely would have read the book in one sitting! And I loved it so much I was extremely glad that book 2’s preorder was already up! (Though I obviously wished the book was just ready to read now!) 😅
I loved getting to know this world and how different things worked! I loved learning about the various gifts people received and how some chose to use them/how it affected their lives. I LOVED getting to know Wren, Castien, and their close friends. I especially loved seeing Castien with his cousin and how Finn knew just which buttons to push in order to get Castien to react to something. I also loved Castien & Wren’s letters and how their method’s of letter writing/topic/delivery changed over time. I loved seeing their personalities come out more and more through them and that it drew them closer than either of them expected it to. 😍
I can’t wait to find out what’s going to happen next!
Summary:
Wren dreamed of a quiet life with visits from her brother, but all of those dreams are shattered when her brother’s body is delivered from the elite academy he’d been attending. And with him come clues pointing to her brother’s death being much more than anyone is telling her. Wren will do anything to avenge her brother, even if it means going to the academy in his stead in order to bring his killer to justice herself. And Wren knows that Castien Valengard at the very least is connected to her brother if not involved with his death based off what she’s already learned…
Castien makes it his business to know what’s going on around the campus and is determined to find who’s behind the death of one of the students. But all his plans are thwarted by the start of school and the students returning to campus. Especially when the deceased student’s sister joins the ranks after hearing for years that she’d never come to the academy. Castien is certain that Wren has a different agenda than the one she’s telling people. The only question is, will she help or hurt his own efforts in hunting down the killer threatening life at the Obsidian Academy?
November 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
GENRE
-romantasy
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: yearning, but that's all!
-⚠️: death/murder, moderate gore, vague references to past sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts (past)
I've known Annah Conwell is a great rom-com author for a while, but I was so impressed to see how beautifully this endeavor of branching out into romantasy turned out. Whereas her rom-coms are written in first-person POV, this one is in third-person and I liked that a lot. I thought it worked so well with this story.
I really enjoyed Ocean of Ink. I am so curious to know and figure out what is going on at Obsidian Academy. I thought the letters between Castien and Wren were sooo fantastic. I loved the insights that we got into each character in those communications. My heart hurt for Wren and the losses that she's suffered, but I love how Castien uses his knowledge of things to ease Wren's burdens however he can.
The author certainly left us right in the middle of an intense scene! I'm absolutely hooked and can't until the spring when Tides of Secrets will come out.
Favorite Quotes:
-Lately hope feels much more like a blade without a handle. I cannot grasp it without earning a scar. I am made of scars.
-Wren wanted to be strong, but she feared that all of her might had died with her brother.
-“You are what you make yourself, Lady Kalyxi. You can be a fighter if you want to be."
-“You are not my enemy,” Castien said as he sat down. His eyes found Wren’s. “But do not mistake yourself as insignificant when you are far from it.”
-To suppress is to be safely on land. To feel is to set sail upon the Heartless Tides.
-I find myself craving your script as a man lost at sea yearns for land. I wear my longing like shackles. It is rather unfortunate, given my aversion toward captivity in any form.
-They had shared an ocean of ink, a sea of parchment, all laced with secrets and memories. Somehow, Castien Valengard had become the one person in the Seven Havens that Wren felt safe with.
GENRE
-romantasy
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: yearning, but that's all!
-⚠️: death/murder, moderate gore, vague references to past sexual abuse, suicidal thoughts (past)
I've known Annah Conwell is a great rom-com author for a while, but I was so impressed to see how beautifully this endeavor of branching out into romantasy turned out. Whereas her rom-coms are written in first-person POV, this one is in third-person and I liked that a lot. I thought it worked so well with this story.
I really enjoyed Ocean of Ink. I am so curious to know and figure out what is going on at Obsidian Academy. I thought the letters between Castien and Wren were sooo fantastic. I loved the insights that we got into each character in those communications. My heart hurt for Wren and the losses that she's suffered, but I love how Castien uses his knowledge of things to ease Wren's burdens however he can.
The author certainly left us right in the middle of an intense scene! I'm absolutely hooked and can't until the spring when Tides of Secrets will come out.
Favorite Quotes:
-Lately hope feels much more like a blade without a handle. I cannot grasp it without earning a scar. I am made of scars.
-Wren wanted to be strong, but she feared that all of her might had died with her brother.
-“You are what you make yourself, Lady Kalyxi. You can be a fighter if you want to be."
-“You are not my enemy,” Castien said as he sat down. His eyes found Wren’s. “But do not mistake yourself as insignificant when you are far from it.”
-To suppress is to be safely on land. To feel is to set sail upon the Heartless Tides.
-I find myself craving your script as a man lost at sea yearns for land. I wear my longing like shackles. It is rather unfortunate, given my aversion toward captivity in any form.
-They had shared an ocean of ink, a sea of parchment, all laced with secrets and memories. Somehow, Castien Valengard had become the one person in the Seven Havens that Wren felt safe with.
September 30, 2025
✨What a privilege, she murmured. “To have love be your greatest weakness” ✨
✨ There was something about parchment and ink that made one divulge matters of the heart with abandon ✨
✨ But thoughts of her seemed as inevitable as the fall of the Aidrian star, as sure as the rising of the tides, there was no escaping. Castien could only try not to drown in her. ✨
✨You are not my enemy. But do not mistake yourself as insignificant when you are far from it. ✨
✨ The burying of emotions is something I am well acquainted with. It is safer to deny myself the opportunity to feel than to succumb to the calamity that would follow. ✨
✨” Then why keep going?” “To give up would be to die” ✨
✨ But I find myself craving your script as a man lost at sea yearns for land. ✨
~
What to expect:
Dark Academia
Top-tier YEARNING
Mystery plot
Healing themes
Letters being exchanged in secrecy >>>>
PHENOMINAL world-building 🤌💞✨
Falling in love with ALL the main characters
~
Content Warnings:
Childhood sexual assault (no graphic just flashbacks)
Descriptions of dead bodies
Suicidal thoughts
Anxiety
Grief
Depictions of monsters inspired by cryptids
~
My thoughts 🖊️💖
Listen... if you thought the Mrs. beautiful & talented Annah Conwell’s rom coms were good. Her DEBUT dark romantasy is a WHOLE other level!! 51 chapters wasn't enough🥹before I even FINISHED it. I knew it was going to be 5 stars. Annah just has such a beautiful way of immersing you in her world of stories, and this one being a dark romantasy?! I was HOOKED. The imagery, dialogue, plot, and characters were all so strong and beautifully balanced—a feat that’s so hard to achieve in fantasy, yet Annah nailed it effortlessly. These characters became so near and dear to my heart (Finnick especially… like, are you kidding?! Too charming for his own good 🤭) I also need to take a minute for the WORLD- BUILDING! Because MA’AM that was absolutely gorGEOUSS 🏃♂️➡️💞
~
There were also so many BEAUTIFUL lines in this story (I had such a hard time just picking 7 lol) that I could relate to/pertain to scripture, that extra layer of meaning gave the novel such a personal, loving feel. You can see the heart Annah pours into her writing; it’s a blessing to witness the gift Adonai has given her and to watch her use it in such a luminous, powerful way.
~
I cannot wait for the 2nd book because that cliffhanger should’ve been illegal 🤭I cannot wait for more of her romantasy books to come, and I am so excited and happy she started writing this genre because everyone can use light & healing in times of darkness.
~
Humongous thank you to Annah Conwell & Rachel Marbeiter for the Arc copy can’t thank you enough. And for letting me become part of the Obsidian Society. I am most grateful for the opportunity and will be waiting eagerly for the next novels to come!
~
Stay blessed everyone 🙏
Ps. Also that author's note? Yeahhhh it made me cry. Ok I’m done😝
✨ There was something about parchment and ink that made one divulge matters of the heart with abandon ✨
✨ But thoughts of her seemed as inevitable as the fall of the Aidrian star, as sure as the rising of the tides, there was no escaping. Castien could only try not to drown in her. ✨
✨You are not my enemy. But do not mistake yourself as insignificant when you are far from it. ✨
✨ The burying of emotions is something I am well acquainted with. It is safer to deny myself the opportunity to feel than to succumb to the calamity that would follow. ✨
✨” Then why keep going?” “To give up would be to die” ✨
✨ But I find myself craving your script as a man lost at sea yearns for land. ✨
~
What to expect:
Dark Academia
Top-tier YEARNING
Mystery plot
Healing themes
Letters being exchanged in secrecy >>>>
PHENOMINAL world-building 🤌💞✨
Falling in love with ALL the main characters
~
Content Warnings:
Childhood sexual assault (no graphic just flashbacks)
Descriptions of dead bodies
Suicidal thoughts
Anxiety
Grief
Depictions of monsters inspired by cryptids
~
My thoughts 🖊️💖
Listen... if you thought the Mrs. beautiful & talented Annah Conwell’s rom coms were good. Her DEBUT dark romantasy is a WHOLE other level!! 51 chapters wasn't enough🥹before I even FINISHED it. I knew it was going to be 5 stars. Annah just has such a beautiful way of immersing you in her world of stories, and this one being a dark romantasy?! I was HOOKED. The imagery, dialogue, plot, and characters were all so strong and beautifully balanced—a feat that’s so hard to achieve in fantasy, yet Annah nailed it effortlessly. These characters became so near and dear to my heart (Finnick especially… like, are you kidding?! Too charming for his own good 🤭) I also need to take a minute for the WORLD- BUILDING! Because MA’AM that was absolutely gorGEOUSS 🏃♂️➡️💞
~
There were also so many BEAUTIFUL lines in this story (I had such a hard time just picking 7 lol) that I could relate to/pertain to scripture, that extra layer of meaning gave the novel such a personal, loving feel. You can see the heart Annah pours into her writing; it’s a blessing to witness the gift Adonai has given her and to watch her use it in such a luminous, powerful way.
~
I cannot wait for the 2nd book because that cliffhanger should’ve been illegal 🤭I cannot wait for more of her romantasy books to come, and I am so excited and happy she started writing this genre because everyone can use light & healing in times of darkness.
~
Humongous thank you to Annah Conwell & Rachel Marbeiter for the Arc copy can’t thank you enough. And for letting me become part of the Obsidian Society. I am most grateful for the opportunity and will be waiting eagerly for the next novels to come!
~
Stay blessed everyone 🙏
Ps. Also that author's note? Yeahhhh it made me cry. Ok I’m done😝
November 3, 2025
4.5
Honestly this was a grower! The first half was kinda slow to me and I didn’t feel super connected to any one character, but the second half was so good. Loooove castien. Also love that the dark elements to this aren’t romanticized as some authors do
Honestly this was a grower! The first half was kinda slow to me and I didn’t feel super connected to any one character, but the second half was so good. Loooove castien. Also love that the dark elements to this aren’t romanticized as some authors do
October 28, 2025
Very good, clean dark academia. Even though the dialogue and letters verge in the edge of too poetic to flow realistically, the prose is lovely. And once Castien begins yearning…*chef’s kiss*
My only complaint is just how stressed I am about Wren finding out the Castien has had her journal and the betrayal of it. It’s almost a good thing I have to wait till next summer to read the sequel.
My only complaint is just how stressed I am about Wren finding out the Castien has had her journal and the betrayal of it. It’s almost a good thing I have to wait till next summer to read the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews