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Lez The Halls
The Fires of Longest Night
This Longest Night, Nissa must do her duty to her people - but all she wants is the hot, axe-wielding dragon-rider.
Nissa is looking forward to Longest Night, with feasting and revelry and the chance that axe-wielding dragon rider Ria might accept a kiss under her lantern during her clan’s traditional dance through the rainforest.
But this year, everyone has a plan for Nissa. Her father, the Warlord, seeks to use her to shore up an alliance with another clan. On the other hand, Ria wants to leap with Nissa across the Longest Night flames and let her choose whether it promises one night of pleasure under the stars or a year to see whether the love that’s grown between them might bear a lifetime. Ria will take whatever Nissa wants to give her.
Nissa faces a choice between duty and desire… but her decision won’t just affect her own happiness. It may also determine what kind of future the new year will bring for her people.
Celebrate the season with this short story in the Everlands universe featuring dragon-riding, sweet sapphic steam and a dose of feminine rage amidst the cosy Solstice feels!
Nissa is looking forward to Longest Night, with feasting and revelry and the chance that axe-wielding dragon rider Ria might accept a kiss under her lantern during her clan’s traditional dance through the rainforest.
But this year, everyone has a plan for Nissa. Her father, the Warlord, seeks to use her to shore up an alliance with another clan. On the other hand, Ria wants to leap with Nissa across the Longest Night flames and let her choose whether it promises one night of pleasure under the stars or a year to see whether the love that’s grown between them might bear a lifetime. Ria will take whatever Nissa wants to give her.
Nissa faces a choice between duty and desire… but her decision won’t just affect her own happiness. It may also determine what kind of future the new year will bring for her people.
Celebrate the season with this short story in the Everlands universe featuring dragon-riding, sweet sapphic steam and a dose of feminine rage amidst the cosy Solstice feels!
67 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2025
16 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Rycroft
5 books177 followersJC Rycroft is a queer fantasy author living and writing on unceded Wadawurrung land in Australia. Their work draws on high and epic fantasy tropes, mixed with a dollop of queer romance, humour and wit, flawed but fabulous feminist heroes and diverse-in-all-the-ways characters, liberally sprinkled with philosophical concepts brought to life. She loves bringing together the apparent contradictions: high theory and silly humour, profound theoretical concerns with a rollicking good story, and ordinary people with unexpected demands to heroism that somehow only they can answer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 8, 2025
I really enjoyed The Fires of Longest Night by JC Rycroft. It is set in the world of The Everlands Cycle. Rycroft has a handle on the emotionally driven narrative. This one is short and sweet. It feels complete but full of potential for more. Ria and Nissa are beautiful, strong women who stand up for themselves, and love. It is sexy, sweet, romantic, feminist, and powerful, balanced on so few pages. Of course, there are also dragons.
I highly recommend!
#dragons #badasswomen #butchfemme #downwiththeman #festival #spicy #romantic
I received this free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
I highly recommend!
#dragons #badasswomen #butchfemme #downwiththeman #festival #spicy #romantic
I received this free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
October 20, 2025
The Fires of Longest Night is a short story set in the world of the Everlands Cycle series but in a time 500 years prior.
Ria and Nissa are planning for the evening festivities, including jumping the fires, which is a declaration of spending the night together and possibly, jumping the fires in the morning to indictate a year long union. However, not everyone is happy with the idea of Ria & Nissa together. Will Nissa's father promise her to another to secure cooperation with another clan or will Nissa make her own choice for the future?
The strength of this story is the heart and warmth between Ria & Nissa.The angst we've all felt at a growing love is here, along with all those butterflies. There is some spice but it's written beautifully and tastefully. This is a love story!
Ria and Nissa are planning for the evening festivities, including jumping the fires, which is a declaration of spending the night together and possibly, jumping the fires in the morning to indictate a year long union. However, not everyone is happy with the idea of Ria & Nissa together. Will Nissa's father promise her to another to secure cooperation with another clan or will Nissa make her own choice for the future?
The strength of this story is the heart and warmth between Ria & Nissa.The angst we've all felt at a growing love is here, along with all those butterflies. There is some spice but it's written beautifully and tastefully. This is a love story!
November 20, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with a copy of The Fires of Longest Night! As always, all opinions are my own and this review is being left voluntarily.
4.75 stars rounded up
✨ Adult Sapphic Fantasy Novelette
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 3/5 Spice Level
✨ Lez the Halls
✨ Rep: sapphic MCs
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Short, engaging reads
- Sapphic longing & spice
- Seasonal reading
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
Super excited for this series of novelettes! I think they’ll be great “palate cleansers” between novels this holiday season. The Fires of Longest Night is definitely the one that stood out to me the most as “for you”, so I had to start with it. I was not disappointed at all, and I actually finished it in one sitting while exercising on my treadmill (might do the same with the others… we’ll see!).
Some things I loved…
- The YEARNING from both sides. I was living and breathing for it while I read. I felt so invested even after like… ten pages. I was really rooting for them!
- The lore and world-building feels fleshed out despite this being short. It really feels like there is a world beyond this story. I thought that aspect was extraordinarily well-done.
- The pacing felt good! I liked that there was a “moral of the story” of sorts at the end, which I felt like rounded out the plot.
- The spice was hot, but also so tender and genuine. It fit well with the rest of the book and really fit their connection.
Some things to consider…
- It’s a short novelette. Meaning it’s a bit longer than a short story and a bit shorter than a novella. If you’re looking for something linger, I wouldn’t recommend this, but if you’re in the mood for something bite sized to read around a fire with a blanket? This is definitely that book!
Final thoughts…
This was such a well-done novelette. I definitely need to read more by this author… and the other novelettes in this series! This was my first “seasonal” read, and it really set the stage. Highly recommend fans of sapphic romance and fantasy give this one a read.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
violence, injury (non-fatal), animal injury (non-fatal), sexually explicit content
4.75 stars rounded up
✨ Adult Sapphic Fantasy Novelette
✨ Third Person, Dual POV
✨ 3/5 Spice Level
✨ Lez the Halls
✨ Rep: sapphic MCs
I recommend if you enjoy…
- Short, engaging reads
- Sapphic longing & spice
- Seasonal reading
Content warnings after review.
General thoughts…
Super excited for this series of novelettes! I think they’ll be great “palate cleansers” between novels this holiday season. The Fires of Longest Night is definitely the one that stood out to me the most as “for you”, so I had to start with it. I was not disappointed at all, and I actually finished it in one sitting while exercising on my treadmill (might do the same with the others… we’ll see!).
Some things I loved…
- The YEARNING from both sides. I was living and breathing for it while I read. I felt so invested even after like… ten pages. I was really rooting for them!
- The lore and world-building feels fleshed out despite this being short. It really feels like there is a world beyond this story. I thought that aspect was extraordinarily well-done.
- The pacing felt good! I liked that there was a “moral of the story” of sorts at the end, which I felt like rounded out the plot.
- The spice was hot, but also so tender and genuine. It fit well with the rest of the book and really fit their connection.
Some things to consider…
- It’s a short novelette. Meaning it’s a bit longer than a short story and a bit shorter than a novella. If you’re looking for something linger, I wouldn’t recommend this, but if you’re in the mood for something bite sized to read around a fire with a blanket? This is definitely that book!
Final thoughts…
This was such a well-done novelette. I definitely need to read more by this author… and the other novelettes in this series! This was my first “seasonal” read, and it really set the stage. Highly recommend fans of sapphic romance and fantasy give this one a read.
(beware potential spoilers below)
Content Warnings
(may not be all inclusive)
violence, injury (non-fatal), animal injury (non-fatal), sexually explicit content
December 7, 2025
જ⁀➴
2 stars
-`🎄´-
this was probably my least favourite in the series of novellas thus far. maybe it was because i'm unfamiliar with the world of the everlands cycle? it just seemed lacklustre and as if there wasn't much of a cohesive storyline to follow, just a bunch of fantasy tropes thrown together in a messy and underwhelming fashion. it didn't help that neither of the main characters felt developed or likeable.
this was probably my least favourite in the series of novellas thus far. maybe it was because i'm unfamiliar with the world of the everlands cycle? it just seemed lacklustre and as if there wasn't much of a cohesive storyline to follow, just a bunch of fantasy tropes thrown together in a messy and underwhelming fashion. it didn't help that neither of the main characters felt developed or likeable.
October 15, 2025
J.C. Rycroft's worldbuilding is just magnificent and skillful.
This novelette is connected to Rycroft’s Everlands Cycle, but worry not—Rycroft is a master of integrating fantasy worldbuilding details without being overwhelming, immersing you right into this dragon-riding world of clans and Warlords.
I liked that this novelette had an established couple that hasn’t taken the next step yet. The characters already like each other, and the customs of Longest Night, where they can choose to leap over the flames together, is so indulgent—exactly what I would want out of a holiday-themed fantasy novella.
The scope of this story is impressive as well, ranging from the characters’ romance to tackling misogyny to exploring conflict between clans. These are all handled deftly for the length of the story, with no aspect ever feeling rushed.
Check this out for an action-packed, perfectly paced holiday read with sassy dragons and axe-wielding badasses.
This novelette is connected to Rycroft’s Everlands Cycle, but worry not—Rycroft is a master of integrating fantasy worldbuilding details without being overwhelming, immersing you right into this dragon-riding world of clans and Warlords.
I liked that this novelette had an established couple that hasn’t taken the next step yet. The characters already like each other, and the customs of Longest Night, where they can choose to leap over the flames together, is so indulgent—exactly what I would want out of a holiday-themed fantasy novella.
The scope of this story is impressive as well, ranging from the characters’ romance to tackling misogyny to exploring conflict between clans. These are all handled deftly for the length of the story, with no aspect ever feeling rushed.
Check this out for an action-packed, perfectly paced holiday read with sassy dragons and axe-wielding badasses.
December 3, 2025
Nissa and Ria were a cute couple with a long courtship culminating in the Longest Night. Ria was brash and bold dragon rider, but endlessly patient and loving. Nissa was dutiful and quieter, but also brave. She had to find a balance between duty and desire when powerful men wanted to write the story of her life for her.
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: blood, violence/battle, injury, sentient animal battle, misogyny, discussion of threat of insanity, mention of mass death, mentions of prior death and revivification
Spice: 3/5
Triggers: blood, violence/battle, injury, sentient animal battle, misogyny, discussion of threat of insanity, mention of mass death, mentions of prior death and revivification
October 31, 2025
This is the perfect story for sapphic fantasy lovers who have a short amount of time to read a really good book.
The slow burn happens off the page but, by the clan’s reactions and comments, you know it’s been a SLOW burn. Really good chemistry between Ria and Nissa and the spice was written like they worshipped each other.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but from what I read here, I’m definitely intrigued to learn about the world they’ve built.
Thank you to J.C. Rycroft for providing me with an eARC. Can’t wait to read the rest of the Lez the Halls series.
The slow burn happens off the page but, by the clan’s reactions and comments, you know it’s been a SLOW burn. Really good chemistry between Ria and Nissa and the spice was written like they worshipped each other.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author but from what I read here, I’m definitely intrigued to learn about the world they’ve built.
Thank you to J.C. Rycroft for providing me with an eARC. Can’t wait to read the rest of the Lez the Halls series.
October 27, 2025
Rycroft does it again! I cannot believe the content she managed to squeeze into this little novel! We have pining, dragon riding/fighting, world building that connects back to her everlands cycle series, an incredibly passionate and intimate moment 🥵, court politics, and commentary on society as a whole!
No notes!
No notes!
October 22, 2025
4.5 Stars
JC Rycroft knows how to rile and calm readers like a master conductor. The Fires of Longest Night, a 68 page magnificent short story is one example. 68 pages! That’s including table of contents and miscellaneous pages. It was short but trust, every word is worth its weight in gold because the story was still so profound despite its length. Set 500 years before the epic Everlands Cycle Books, this seemingly cute but telling short story is one you won’t want to miss especially if you’ve already been initiated into the Everlands Cycle Books.
JC Rycroft knows how to rile and calm readers like a master conductor. The Fires of Longest Night, a 68 page magnificent short story is one example. 68 pages! That’s including table of contents and miscellaneous pages. It was short but trust, every word is worth its weight in gold because the story was still so profound despite its length. Set 500 years before the epic Everlands Cycle Books, this seemingly cute but telling short story is one you won’t want to miss especially if you’ve already been initiated into the Everlands Cycle Books.
October 27, 2025
I loved this bite-size sapphic fantasy! J.C. Rycroft always creates beautiful storylines with meaning and lovable characters! This is a view into the Blood-Born Dragon world 500 years prior to the series. You can expect a snarky dragon, a valiant dragon rider, and a princess with a decision to make. I loved the cultural tradition crafted for this novella! You don't need any other knowledge of this world, so jump in and see what all the fuss is about!
October 25, 2025
I love the way this story combines romantasy with some traditional customs that we have. Ria and Nissa are such great, strong female characters and I really would love to read more about their story. I think Longest Night beats out a traditional Christmas romance by a mile. Also, Longest Night just feels like such a wonderful custom and celebration over all.
October 22, 2025
Just a little taste of sweet yummy goodness from this author. I have adored all their books thus far and this one is no exception. Delighted!
There’s dragons and dragon sass ;). There is standing up for not only one’s self but also for their people. There’s some tense action and some delicious action ;). There’s some injuries of a person and some healing of a clan.
Ria and Nissa jump the fires of the longest night. Will they jump again come light?
I can’t wait for more from this author and this world. Highly recommend!
There’s dragons and dragon sass ;). There is standing up for not only one’s self but also for their people. There’s some tense action and some delicious action ;). There’s some injuries of a person and some healing of a clan.
Ria and Nissa jump the fires of the longest night. Will they jump again come light?
I can’t wait for more from this author and this world. Highly recommend!
November 20, 2025
Another gorgeous book by this author, just wish it was longer.
Rycroft has an ability to have us connected to a story and the characters so fast, weaving the story and world in seamlessly.
Not once do you feel any disconnect, the characters feel right, their motivations consistent with the plot and situations. Masterful.
Most of all I just adore her sense of consent in her spicy scenes. It is so beautifully done, yes the heat is there but time is spent yet again allowing the characters to behave consistent with their arcs.
It’s a remarkable achievement in such a wee novella. Full of heart, drama, suspense and most of all love ❤️ this storyteller has a deft touch.
A joy to read, same as her other works. She is particularly brilliant at characters showing vulnerability and at finding their inner strengths. Highly recommended author.
Rycroft has an ability to have us connected to a story and the characters so fast, weaving the story and world in seamlessly.
Not once do you feel any disconnect, the characters feel right, their motivations consistent with the plot and situations. Masterful.
Most of all I just adore her sense of consent in her spicy scenes. It is so beautifully done, yes the heat is there but time is spent yet again allowing the characters to behave consistent with their arcs.
It’s a remarkable achievement in such a wee novella. Full of heart, drama, suspense and most of all love ❤️ this storyteller has a deft touch.
A joy to read, same as her other works. She is particularly brilliant at characters showing vulnerability and at finding their inner strengths. Highly recommended author.
October 23, 2025
Good introduction to Ria especially sliding down the dragons scales
She has a lovely crush on the Warlords daughter and is planning to ask her to dance tonight at the Longest Night ceremony
The wise older healer becomes an important secondary character
The mind conversations with the dragon are clever and witty. The dragon worries if it's human is killed, it could lose its mind and set cities on fire
I love tales that make me look up a word
The dance during the longest night is full of meaning, desire and passion.I like the idea of jumping the fire together.
The battle between the dragons is tense. Its always great to read powerful daughters standing upto their fathers and tradition
This fantasy holds up well
and ARC honest review
She has a lovely crush on the Warlords daughter and is planning to ask her to dance tonight at the Longest Night ceremony
The wise older healer becomes an important secondary character
The mind conversations with the dragon are clever and witty. The dragon worries if it's human is killed, it could lose its mind and set cities on fire
I love tales that make me look up a word
The dance during the longest night is full of meaning, desire and passion.I like the idea of jumping the fire together.
The battle between the dragons is tense. Its always great to read powerful daughters standing upto their fathers and tradition
This fantasy holds up well
and ARC honest review
December 7, 2025
Stars: 5 Stars
Format: Digital
Series: Lez the Halls Book 4
Steam Level: Steamy
CW: blood, violence
I saw this collection advertised in one of the many author mailing lists I subscribe to and it sounded like it would be loads of fun. I love these types of short story collections since they have a low bar of entry to try new to you authors.
I really enjoyed this collection because none of these stories are connected; you have the option of just picking up one story and/or reread your favorite one.
Quick Thoughts:
- I was a bit hesitant to read this one. I know nothing about universe and haven’t read any of J. C. Rycroft’s books. I know I must of missed stuff but it didn’t bother me
- These two are just so darn cute together
- Loved the relationship between Ria and Isiridion (dragon)
- I thought it was a fantastic and thought provoking take Illima tells Ria about why this particular Longest Night is important
- Karma better slap those four good for nothings upside the head and make them eternally miserable
- That ending was so cute and their clan’s reaction was wonderful
Overall I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story without knowing a single thing about this universe. It was easy to follow and kept me engaged the whole time. And yes, I picked up a book by J. C. Rycroft. Because dragons!
Format: Digital
Series: Lez the Halls Book 4
Steam Level: Steamy
CW: blood, violence
I saw this collection advertised in one of the many author mailing lists I subscribe to and it sounded like it would be loads of fun. I love these types of short story collections since they have a low bar of entry to try new to you authors.
I really enjoyed this collection because none of these stories are connected; you have the option of just picking up one story and/or reread your favorite one.
Quick Thoughts:
- I was a bit hesitant to read this one. I know nothing about universe and haven’t read any of J. C. Rycroft’s books. I know I must of missed stuff but it didn’t bother me
- These two are just so darn cute together
- Loved the relationship between Ria and Isiridion (dragon)
- I thought it was a fantastic and thought provoking take Illima tells Ria about why this particular Longest Night is important
- Karma better slap those four good for nothings upside the head and make them eternally miserable
- That ending was so cute and their clan’s reaction was wonderful
Overall I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this story without knowing a single thing about this universe. It was easy to follow and kept me engaged the whole time. And yes, I picked up a book by J. C. Rycroft. Because dragons!
November 30, 2025
Thank you J.C. Rycroft for this ARC! The Fires of Longest Night is a short, spicy novella that is set in the world of J.C.'s upcoming new series, Era of Storms. It is also related to their Everlands Cycle books, but set 500 years prior so you do not need to know anything about the world to enjoy this book.
It follows Ria and Nissa as they navigate their clans ideas of what life should be. They clearly care for each other, but worry that Nissa will be able to be in a relationship with her status as the warlords daughter. The traditions surrounding the Longes Night might be just the thing they need to push their relationship to the next level.
There is a little conflict in the book, but it mostly focuses on the relationship of Ria and Nissa. There is a bit of spice, that is very well written. I am excited to see where this series goes!
It follows Ria and Nissa as they navigate their clans ideas of what life should be. They clearly care for each other, but worry that Nissa will be able to be in a relationship with her status as the warlords daughter. The traditions surrounding the Longes Night might be just the thing they need to push their relationship to the next level.
There is a little conflict in the book, but it mostly focuses on the relationship of Ria and Nissa. There is a bit of spice, that is very well written. I am excited to see where this series goes!
December 22, 2025
This was interesting. There was a LOT of worldbuilding packed into a very short story, and it makes a lot of sense that this is essentially an intro for an upcoming series. I think that on its own it doesn’t quite hold up; it’s somewhat of a cliffhanger ending and the story sets up a lot of details that we (obviously) don’t get any resolution for. So, I didn’t love that! At the same time though, what we got was interesting and I can definitely see myself coming back around to read whatever novels follow this introduction short story.
November 26, 2025
This is a sweet short story entry in the Lez the Halls series. Each story is by a different author. This book is a fantasy with a delightful romance between a warlord’s daughter and the buff, warrior woman who loves her. I was engaged by the lore of the clan they belonged to. This story is based in the Everlands universe, and I’ll definitely read those because I want to see more about this world and the characters that inhabit it. For a short story, there’s action, love, and political alliances to be made or lost. The description of this story lists a dose of feminine rage, and I loved that part. Down with the patriarchy!
December 30, 2025
A tiny but potent return to a world I already love and proof that short fiction can still leave a strong impression.
Set during a solstice celebration, there’s politics in the background, but the emotional core is intimate in this sapphic pairing. I loved the warmth between Nissa and Ria. Ria was a great character, in particular, and I loved her relationship with her dragon.
The worldbuilding is brief but rich. Even in a handful of scenes, you can feel the weight of it all. Knowing this takes place centuries before the main Everlands timeline only made me more curious! I’m desperate to see how this past shapes the world we already know.
This is one of those novellas that doesn’t try to do too much, but does exactly what it sets out to do: give us heart, heat, and just enough lore to make you ache for more!
Set during a solstice celebration, there’s politics in the background, but the emotional core is intimate in this sapphic pairing. I loved the warmth between Nissa and Ria. Ria was a great character, in particular, and I loved her relationship with her dragon.
The worldbuilding is brief but rich. Even in a handful of scenes, you can feel the weight of it all. Knowing this takes place centuries before the main Everlands timeline only made me more curious! I’m desperate to see how this past shapes the world we already know.
This is one of those novellas that doesn’t try to do too much, but does exactly what it sets out to do: give us heart, heat, and just enough lore to make you ache for more!
November 24, 2025
Dragons!
Gotta love a holiday story that includes a sapphic romance and dragons. Who knew? JC Rycroft knew. Enjoyed this lovely tale!
Gotta love a holiday story that includes a sapphic romance and dragons. Who knew? JC Rycroft knew. Enjoyed this lovely tale!
November 11, 2025
Ok wait this was actually my favorite. I started reading this late at night and had to stop to go to bed. But I couldn’t WAIT to finish. I loved this short story and definitely can’t wait for the series to read more. I loved how both Nissa and Ria were bad bitches that expelled feminism and stood up to misogyny. It was a good play set in a fantasy world, while staying true to modern day issues. Their relationship was so sweet to me. I’m not a typical fantasy reader, but will be looking for more similar to this story!
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 4/5
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 4/5
November 3, 2025
This is a fun holiday sapphic fantasy romance short novella. It’s part of a multi-author series of standalones and is connected to the unreleased Era of Storms series.
FMC Ria is a dragon-riding warrior who has long been smitten with the warlord’s daughter, FMC Nissa. It’s the solstice/the longest night of the year and the clan’s celebrations include a fire-jumping courtship ritual that Ria is desperate to ask Nissa to join. But Nissa is unsure what to do herself, as the entire clan is watching her decisions and her father may have his own opinion of who she should be with.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was a sweet, fun fantasy with great characters and wonderful world-building. I wanted to know more about what happens after this story and with the rest of the clan, so I’m glad Rycroft plans to make a whole series in this universe.
It’s an exciting and festive holiday story, and I can’t wait to see what the other authors have in store for the series.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
*** I received an ARC and am voluntarily, leaving my honest review.
FMC Ria is a dragon-riding warrior who has long been smitten with the warlord’s daughter, FMC Nissa. It’s the solstice/the longest night of the year and the clan’s celebrations include a fire-jumping courtship ritual that Ria is desperate to ask Nissa to join. But Nissa is unsure what to do herself, as the entire clan is watching her decisions and her father may have his own opinion of who she should be with.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was a sweet, fun fantasy with great characters and wonderful world-building. I wanted to know more about what happens after this story and with the rest of the clan, so I’m glad Rycroft plans to make a whole series in this universe.
It’s an exciting and festive holiday story, and I can’t wait to see what the other authors have in store for the series.
Spice 4/5
Plot: 4.5/5
Writing: 4.5/5
My Enjoyment: 4.5/5
*** I received an ARC and am voluntarily, leaving my honest review.
November 2, 2025
Delightful, spicy, romantic and full of emotion and a little dragon sass. A delicious short story for the festive season and beyond. It packs a punch and as usual for JC Rycroft it is full of heart!
January 2, 2026
Nice little story, no need to have read other books that share the worldbuilding. Good pacing, charming characters and solid storytelling.
The ending leaves you hoping for the next book about them.
The ending leaves you hoping for the next book about them.
December 8, 2025
laughed and I cried, I absolutely loved this story. If you want something quick, sweet and with a happy ending this will definitely help with that reading sweet tooth.
My only complaint is during the spicy moments I didnt like how body parts were described but there isn't to much detail.
My only complaint is during the spicy moments I didnt like how body parts were described but there isn't to much detail.
November 16, 2025
Love it!! Wish it was longer 🤣 certainly gets you in the mood for wintertime and tradition. And there is a big ass snarky dragon. I’m always happy about that. Nessa and Ria are adorable together.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest review
October 30, 2025
Short, sweet, with an ending that will leave you warm, fuzzy and optimistic for what is to come for the characters.
Set in the Everlands world, it is a chronological leap away from the events in the main Everlands books, giving the reader a glimpse into the traditions of the ancient world. It reads well as a stand alone.
It is a quick read, investing the readers in the powerful female characters from the start. The characters are likeable and develop a level of depth despite the short duration of the book, without revealing too much to keep the reader curious should there be follow up works about the characters.
The book has more focus on spicy romance than the test of the Everlands cycle books and is tastefully written. While the romance takes up around a quarter of the book, it still leaves room for the rest of the story to develop and conclude.
4 stars because I personally would have preferred delving a little more into the character's backstories and inner workings ans a little less spice. But that's a personal preference - I still found it a very enjoyable read
Set in the Everlands world, it is a chronological leap away from the events in the main Everlands books, giving the reader a glimpse into the traditions of the ancient world. It reads well as a stand alone.
It is a quick read, investing the readers in the powerful female characters from the start. The characters are likeable and develop a level of depth despite the short duration of the book, without revealing too much to keep the reader curious should there be follow up works about the characters.
The book has more focus on spicy romance than the test of the Everlands cycle books and is tastefully written. While the romance takes up around a quarter of the book, it still leaves room for the rest of the story to develop and conclude.
4 stars because I personally would have preferred delving a little more into the character's backstories and inner workings ans a little less spice. But that's a personal preference - I still found it a very enjoyable read
November 6, 2025
Longer
This needs to be a full blown book!
I need to know if the attack was fully orchestrated or just from remulus
And I need to know about the dragon blood bond and why they go crazy
This needs to be a full blown book!
I need to know if the attack was fully orchestrated or just from remulus
And I need to know about the dragon blood bond and why they go crazy
November 2, 2025
I really enjoyed this short, exciting, spicy read.
The want and need of the two FMC is well written and pulls you in to care about their story, however brief. I would have loved more of this story, the small build up in this story of their feelings is clearly something that J.C. Rycroft is a master at.
I’m looking forward to reading other stories by this author as this one has me hocked.
Thank you J.C. Rycroft for the chance to read this deliciously sweet and spicy story.
The want and need of the two FMC is well written and pulls you in to care about their story, however brief. I would have loved more of this story, the small build up in this story of their feelings is clearly something that J.C. Rycroft is a master at.
I’m looking forward to reading other stories by this author as this one has me hocked.
Thank you J.C. Rycroft for the chance to read this deliciously sweet and spicy story.
November 1, 2025
Fantasy novella that suggests the soon to come main series will be so much fun.
I’m amazed how much the author can share with readers in so few words. Longing, passion, depth of feeling, of being released with your one, of the strength to stand beside them and take their hand, and announce to the world how they feel about each other, and more.
Loved the main characters Ria and Nessa. They have such longing for each other. Also loved the relationship and snark with the dragon Isiridion - suggesting its been instrumental in intervening in the slow, slightly awkward dance that’s been going on between the two girls.
The sapphic adult spice is realistic and also joyful.
The reader gets an idea of the society that these women live in, and maybe the suggestion of malice and subterfuge towards their outward accepting of
their feelings
What a feel good pleasure, a nice way to start my evening. It can be your pleasure too if you pick up this book.
Thank you to JC Rycroft for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine freely given.
I’m amazed how much the author can share with readers in so few words. Longing, passion, depth of feeling, of being released with your one, of the strength to stand beside them and take their hand, and announce to the world how they feel about each other, and more.
Loved the main characters Ria and Nessa. They have such longing for each other. Also loved the relationship and snark with the dragon Isiridion - suggesting its been instrumental in intervening in the slow, slightly awkward dance that’s been going on between the two girls.
The sapphic adult spice is realistic and also joyful.
The reader gets an idea of the society that these women live in, and maybe the suggestion of malice and subterfuge towards their outward accepting of
their feelings
What a feel good pleasure, a nice way to start my evening. It can be your pleasure too if you pick up this book.
Thank you to JC Rycroft for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine freely given.
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