What do you think?
Rate this book
Wings of Defiance: Immortal Power, Bound by Mortal Love
A scarred escapee with dormant power.
An Archangel burdened by visions and impossible duty.
A forbidden alliance that could save a realm—or burn it to ash.
On Lunaria, peaceful citadels burn as the merciless Djinni sweep across the White Plains, their onslaught threatening to extinguish the dawn of all hope.
After a century in captivity, subjected to aetheric experiments by a mad archangel, Sestra finally escapes. Her scars run deep, but her spirit remains unbowed. Haunted by memories of friends still captive, she has no choice but to turn to the archangels to save them.
Uriel, Praeses of Caelum, struggles to hold together a council fractured by ambition as the Djinni surge ever closer. Visions of irrevocable pasts and unwritten futures haunt him despite his efforts to ignore them. When Sestra’s plea arrives, embodying the fate of every archangel, he can no longer turn away. With war at their gates, he must destroy one of his own kin, the traitor whose betrayal spawned the horrors that still torment Sestra.
Torn between uncertainty and a burgeoning bond, Sestra and Uriel forge an uneasy alliance as they race to free her friends and expose darker conspiracies.
In a realm where love can be both a sanctuary and a sacrifice, will their fledgling trust kindle the spark that ends the Archangel’s reign, or will the inferno of defiance consume them both?
Perfect for readers who • slow-burn, emotionally charged fantasy romance
protective immortal heroes & wounded, resilient heroinesangelic & archangel lore, magic systems & dragon mythologycharacter-driven storytelling with epic stakesforbidden alliances, trauma healing arcs & political intrigueromance woven through war, fate, prophecy & shadowed conspiracies
An Archangel burdened by visions and impossible duty.
A forbidden alliance that could save a realm—or burn it to ash.
On Lunaria, peaceful citadels burn as the merciless Djinni sweep across the White Plains, their onslaught threatening to extinguish the dawn of all hope.
After a century in captivity, subjected to aetheric experiments by a mad archangel, Sestra finally escapes. Her scars run deep, but her spirit remains unbowed. Haunted by memories of friends still captive, she has no choice but to turn to the archangels to save them.
Uriel, Praeses of Caelum, struggles to hold together a council fractured by ambition as the Djinni surge ever closer. Visions of irrevocable pasts and unwritten futures haunt him despite his efforts to ignore them. When Sestra’s plea arrives, embodying the fate of every archangel, he can no longer turn away. With war at their gates, he must destroy one of his own kin, the traitor whose betrayal spawned the horrors that still torment Sestra.
Torn between uncertainty and a burgeoning bond, Sestra and Uriel forge an uneasy alliance as they race to free her friends and expose darker conspiracies.
In a realm where love can be both a sanctuary and a sacrifice, will their fledgling trust kindle the spark that ends the Archangel’s reign, or will the inferno of defiance consume them both?
Perfect for readers who • slow-burn, emotionally charged fantasy romance
protective immortal heroes & wounded, resilient heroinesangelic & archangel lore, magic systems & dragon mythologycharacter-driven storytelling with epic stakesforbidden alliances, trauma healing arcs & political intrigueromance woven through war, fate, prophecy & shadowed conspiracies
514 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
2 people are currently reading
5 people want to read
About the author
Virginie Joly
2 books5 followersVirginie Joly has always believed that stories are where the magic hides. As a child, she filled notebooks with faraway worlds and dreamed of tales of love and courage. Today, she brings those same dreams to life in romantic fantasy, and weaves stories where fate dares, love defies, and the stars always have a say.
When she’s not writing, Virginie is creating in other ways—designing, crafting, or losing herself in a good book—and cherishing quiet moments with her family.
You can follow her journey on Instagram @virginie_joly_author.
When she’s not writing, Virginie is creating in other ways—designing, crafting, or losing herself in a good book—and cherishing quiet moments with her family.
You can follow her journey on Instagram @virginie_joly_author.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 8, 2025
I received this book as an arc through BookSirens and am writing this review voluntarily.
This book blew me away.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when starting this book, and I wasn’t sure a but worried because of the semi-short time to read it and the lack of time I had to read. But when I started this book I knew I would devour it. And I did. This book had me hooked from the start and I loved it.
Starting from the plot to the chemistry this book was near perfection. And when I saw chemistry I don’t just mean chemistry between the main characters, although that was amazing done too, I also mean the chemistry between the side characters too. This book was full of humor, heartfelt emotions, and plot twists that kept you on your toes throughout the entire book.
I will 1000% totally recommend this book to anyone.
Enjoy 😘
This book blew me away.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when starting this book, and I wasn’t sure a but worried because of the semi-short time to read it and the lack of time I had to read. But when I started this book I knew I would devour it. And I did. This book had me hooked from the start and I loved it.
Starting from the plot to the chemistry this book was near perfection. And when I saw chemistry I don’t just mean chemistry between the main characters, although that was amazing done too, I also mean the chemistry between the side characters too. This book was full of humor, heartfelt emotions, and plot twists that kept you on your toes throughout the entire book.
I will 1000% totally recommend this book to anyone.
Enjoy 😘
November 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
-Warning, Long Review-
If you like the Authors Nalini Singh, J.R Ward, or Sherrilyn Kenyon, You will more than likely enjoy this book. They are known for vivid world and character building, and this book definitely had that in spades. I would call this a soft romance, not as in barely there, but softly and slowly building. People who are into pure fantasy, will love the whimsy and sensuality story. It will draw you into the world to walk among the characters. Their love weaves a web of sensuality with intense emotions, that it's almost tangible, yet so ethereal. It's a slow sensual build.They didn't have their first real kiss until about 70% the way into the book, at 80% before the first sexual scene, but their attraction and building chemistry was like long drawn out foreplay, WOW! It was so worth the wait! It it was intense. It's not smut level sex scenes, it's very sensual, more elemental, in some aspects, way better than smut sexual scenes. It has more than just plot, action, characters, romance. For example, it's not just a "rainbow", it goes into a description of each color, each bend, the shape, ect. things were described in beautiful detail. There is a upside and a downside pertaining to how things, places and people are described in a book. In my opinion there are two types of readers when it comes to the fantasy genre., Type 1 who want the author to describe everything down to "how many petals does that flower have? what shape are they? what shade are are they? or Type 2, they want to fill in those details with their own imagination. If you are type 1, you will love this book, things are so descriptive, if you are a type 2, you will still very much enjoy the book, but you will probably think you could of gotten to the same destination, with the same feeling, with fewer words.
Each interaction between Uriel and Sestra was always intense, and whether in quiet moments or in the mist of battle, it was beautiful. I loved Each character, their descriptions were awesome, I hope all the Archangels get their own book! I have a soft spot for Kaelin, and Gabriel I hope one of them is next! In this book, amongst the world building, with all the characters you anticipate that there will be more books, but it was also written to where if there wasn't anymore books, you won't be disappointed either.
I very much liked this book, I'm glad I chose this book to review. I hope the author will send out some kind of alert on Goodreads or email when/if a new book in the series comes out. ^.^
Side Note: I like to comment on the covers of books I review. This one is quite simple, but pretty. The bold print is what caught my attention, hence why I decided to read the blurb. I am a firm believer that the saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover" is a misnomer , at least for me. I think books with bold, colorful and beautiful artwork that draws the eye is very important. If your cover is very plain, many people will pass it by. Great cover art teases at what kind of story it will be.
-Warning, Long Review-
If you like the Authors Nalini Singh, J.R Ward, or Sherrilyn Kenyon, You will more than likely enjoy this book. They are known for vivid world and character building, and this book definitely had that in spades. I would call this a soft romance, not as in barely there, but softly and slowly building. People who are into pure fantasy, will love the whimsy and sensuality story. It will draw you into the world to walk among the characters. Their love weaves a web of sensuality with intense emotions, that it's almost tangible, yet so ethereal. It's a slow sensual build.They didn't have their first real kiss until about 70% the way into the book, at 80% before the first sexual scene, but their attraction and building chemistry was like long drawn out foreplay, WOW! It was so worth the wait! It it was intense. It's not smut level sex scenes, it's very sensual, more elemental, in some aspects, way better than smut sexual scenes. It has more than just plot, action, characters, romance. For example, it's not just a "rainbow", it goes into a description of each color, each bend, the shape, ect. things were described in beautiful detail. There is a upside and a downside pertaining to how things, places and people are described in a book. In my opinion there are two types of readers when it comes to the fantasy genre., Type 1 who want the author to describe everything down to "how many petals does that flower have? what shape are they? what shade are are they? or Type 2, they want to fill in those details with their own imagination. If you are type 1, you will love this book, things are so descriptive, if you are a type 2, you will still very much enjoy the book, but you will probably think you could of gotten to the same destination, with the same feeling, with fewer words.
Each interaction between Uriel and Sestra was always intense, and whether in quiet moments or in the mist of battle, it was beautiful. I loved Each character, their descriptions were awesome, I hope all the Archangels get their own book! I have a soft spot for Kaelin, and Gabriel I hope one of them is next! In this book, amongst the world building, with all the characters you anticipate that there will be more books, but it was also written to where if there wasn't anymore books, you won't be disappointed either.
I very much liked this book, I'm glad I chose this book to review. I hope the author will send out some kind of alert on Goodreads or email when/if a new book in the series comes out. ^.^
Side Note: I like to comment on the covers of books I review. This one is quite simple, but pretty. The bold print is what caught my attention, hence why I decided to read the blurb. I am a firm believer that the saying "Don't judge a book by it's cover" is a misnomer , at least for me. I think books with bold, colorful and beautiful artwork that draws the eye is very important. If your cover is very plain, many people will pass it by. Great cover art teases at what kind of story it will be.
November 14, 2025
I didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did. The prose was written like woven threads of silk in my mind, intangible but extremely vivid. The worldbuilding was one of my favourite parts of the book, with all the history and attention to detail.
It paints the perfect picture for this realm, and I found myself wholly absorbed in its intensity. Such detail meant even the romance scenes were carefully explored, but it felt more sensual. Had more what could be felt than just purely actions themselves. I loved the controlled level of intensity it had, even the raw, genuine emotions that felt too much to bear. Yes, the yearning (especially that).
The characters were pretty individualistic, although I felt like i was trying to connect with people who I didn't really know. It would give readers a deeper sense of understanding if the other characters' pasts were explained, or at least provided us more information on their history. The main issue was how well the FMC was outlined in the beginning , but by the end it felt underdeveloped. Of course, there's room to grow, but it didn't fit the clear concept (I had) of her. Nevertheless, the humour and power structure/hierarchy in this book was also greatly appreciated.
For readers who enjoy fated soulmates, forbidden romance, and striking characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It paints the perfect picture for this realm, and I found myself wholly absorbed in its intensity. Such detail meant even the romance scenes were carefully explored, but it felt more sensual. Had more what could be felt than just purely actions themselves. I loved the controlled level of intensity it had, even the raw, genuine emotions that felt too much to bear. Yes, the yearning (especially that).
The characters were pretty individualistic, although I felt like i was trying to connect with people who I didn't really know. It would give readers a deeper sense of understanding if the other characters' pasts were explained, or at least provided us more information on their history. The main issue was how well the FMC was outlined in the beginning , but by the end it felt underdeveloped. Of course, there's room to grow, but it didn't fit the clear concept (I had) of her. Nevertheless, the humour and power structure/hierarchy in this book was also greatly appreciated.
For readers who enjoy fated soulmates, forbidden romance, and striking characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 10, 2025
Stunningly captivating with incredible story-telling!
Rating: 3.7/5 ⭐️
The worldbuilding in this book was so vivid and immersive. The depth and attention to detail had me invested from the get go. I really enjoyed the descriptive nature of the writing as well as the pacing throughout.
The characters each displayed such heartfelt emotions and the side characters were for me an amazing addition. Our FMC showed grace, strength and courage which was so well balanced alongside our MMC, torn between duty and love. The angst and yearning were, of course, one of my favourite parts. I just wish the same level of detail given to creating this unique world was also given to each character's past as that felt slightly lacking.
This was a wonderful read and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a beautifully crafted story with easily likeable characters and a side of emotional damage.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Rating: 3.7/5 ⭐️
The worldbuilding in this book was so vivid and immersive. The depth and attention to detail had me invested from the get go. I really enjoyed the descriptive nature of the writing as well as the pacing throughout.
The characters each displayed such heartfelt emotions and the side characters were for me an amazing addition. Our FMC showed grace, strength and courage which was so well balanced alongside our MMC, torn between duty and love. The angst and yearning were, of course, one of my favourite parts. I just wish the same level of detail given to creating this unique world was also given to each character's past as that felt slightly lacking.
This was a wonderful read and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a beautifully crafted story with easily likeable characters and a side of emotional damage.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
October 16, 2025
Wings of Defiance doesn’t glitter; it endures. It’s not a fantasy of escape — it’s a meditation on how leaders stay whole while everything holy fractures.
Joly has forged a world that rewards patience, punishes vanity, and refuses to flatter the lazy reader. For the reader, it offers war, willpower, and a romance that respects consequence. For the novelist, it proves that discipline thrills and intellect wounds.
Mark
Joly has forged a world that rewards patience, punishes vanity, and refuses to flatter the lazy reader. For the reader, it offers war, willpower, and a romance that respects consequence. For the novelist, it proves that discipline thrills and intellect wounds.
Mark
November 4, 2025
Receiving Wings of Defiance as an arc, I was able to read this book early and while it was definitely an emotional read I very much enjoyed the setting and the characters. The forbidden love and fated mates aspects definitely spoke to me.
The main couple spoke to me as they had enough heart to both their characters due to the emotional depth provided to them, I also appreciated the understanding that the author used to portray trauma and I was satisfied with their ending.
The reason I did not give five stars was mainly due to the fact I would have preferred more background to the characters pasts to be able to see them more, although for the most part I was happy with the book.
It is definitely a book I am looking forward to buying upon its publication and rereading.
The main couple spoke to me as they had enough heart to both their characters due to the emotional depth provided to them, I also appreciated the understanding that the author used to portray trauma and I was satisfied with their ending.
The reason I did not give five stars was mainly due to the fact I would have preferred more background to the characters pasts to be able to see them more, although for the most part I was happy with the book.
It is definitely a book I am looking forward to buying upon its publication and rereading.
November 7, 2025
I enjoyed the world building and power structure but I can’t say I was overly invested in the characters. I loved the concept of the FMC but by the end of the book I didn’t quite feel like it delivered. It was an enjoyable read nonetheless. I see the potential for this to be a good series given the ground work that’s been placed. Though I do wish the book covered more of the sub plots being explored.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 13, 2025
On Lunaria, peaceful citadels burn as the merciless Djinni sweep across the White Plains, their onslaught threatening to extinguish the dawn of all hope.
After a century in captivity, subjected to aetheric experiments by a mad archangel, Sestra finally escapes. Her scars run deep, but her spirit remains unbowed. Haunted by memories of friends still captive, she has no choice but to turn to the archangels to save them.
Uriel, Praeses of Caelum, struggles to hold together a council fractured by ambition as the Djinni surge ever closer. Visions of irrevocable pasts and unwritten futures haunt him despite his efforts to ignore them. When Sestra’s plea arrives, embodying the fate of every archangel, he can no longer turn away. With war at their gates, he must destroy one of his own kin, the traitor whose betrayal spawned the horrors that still torment Sestra.
Torn between uncertainty and a burgeoning bond, Sestra and Uriel forge an uneasy alliance as they race to free her friends and expose darker conspiracies.
In a realm where love can be both a sanctuary and a sacrifice, will their fledgling trust kindle the spark that ends the Archangel’s reign, or will the inferno of defiance consume them both?
Tropes: Angels, Archangles, Djinni, Slow Burn, Vivid World,
Wings of Defiance is an Immortal Power, Bound by Mortal Love by Virginie Joly. This is Virginie Joly's debut novel and it's a stunning novel. If you love authors like Nalini Singh, J.R. Ward or my personal favorite and a got to author of mine Sherrilyn Kenyon, then you are more then likely going to love this book. With it's vivid world, stunning character building this book puts Virginie Joly in their ranks with this debut.
This is a soft slow burn romance that builds softly and slowly, so naturally you feel like you are peering into another persons life as it is unfolding. For those who love fantasy, you are going to love the eccentricity that lives next to the sensuality of this story. Virginie has written a story that's going to draw you into this world and you'll find you walking right next to all the characters.
The love we see slowly bloom between Sestra and Uriel is one that is woven with sensuality and all these intense emotions, it's all so tangible, and yet at the same time it remains so ethereal. The slow burn is tortuous, sensual, tenuous, filled with angst and tension. Sestra and Uriel don't share their first kiss until you are about 70% though the book and you don't get any spice till the 80% mark. But you can't deny their attraction to each other, the way their chemistry continues to build, the entire time it's like it's all just one long drawn out foreplay and it's just stunning. And believe me, it's so worth the wait. It's intense, and it is smut worthy, sensual, elemental in so many aspects, and in many ways it's actually better than a lot of smut sex scenes.
I found that each interaction we saw between Sestra and Uriel was so intense and it didn't matter if they were in batter or if it was in the midst of a quiet moment, it was always so intense and I just loved it. Every character description was so amazing.
I'd really like to see each of the Archangels get their own story and book, even if is just a novella. I've got this soft spot in my heart for Kaelin and Gabriel, I really hope they both get full length novels and one of them are next. In a world this expanse with so many characters who all have their own stories, you can only anticipate that there will be more books, but the way it was written and the way it ended, you're not going to be disappointed either way.
I have to say that Virginie did such an amazing job with the world building. It is not only huge, it's vivid and you can get lost in how immersive it is. There is such a great depth to it and you can tell just how much attention to detail Virginie put into it and that has you captivated from the very beginning. Her descriptive nature in writing and picture perfect pacing throughout the novel really helped to bring this story to life for me.
The detail to characters, the way she created all the characters, gave the room to grow and develop naturally through the story was such a fantastic addition to me along with the character arcs.
Sestra has such a stunning grace, courage, strength, intelligence and strength.
Uriel on the other hand was torn between his duty and the growing love he felt for Sestra.
Both Sestra and Uriel really balanced each other I found and all the characters felt so relatable and like they were just like you and me and had their own trauma and side pieces of emotional damage.
Virginie Joly has given us such a vivd world, high emotional stakes, unforgettable characters, and fantasy with heart and this is the perfect book for anyone who loves any of the above said.
I can't wait to see what comes next from this author. She is now on my watch list.
After a century in captivity, subjected to aetheric experiments by a mad archangel, Sestra finally escapes. Her scars run deep, but her spirit remains unbowed. Haunted by memories of friends still captive, she has no choice but to turn to the archangels to save them.
Uriel, Praeses of Caelum, struggles to hold together a council fractured by ambition as the Djinni surge ever closer. Visions of irrevocable pasts and unwritten futures haunt him despite his efforts to ignore them. When Sestra’s plea arrives, embodying the fate of every archangel, he can no longer turn away. With war at their gates, he must destroy one of his own kin, the traitor whose betrayal spawned the horrors that still torment Sestra.
Torn between uncertainty and a burgeoning bond, Sestra and Uriel forge an uneasy alliance as they race to free her friends and expose darker conspiracies.
In a realm where love can be both a sanctuary and a sacrifice, will their fledgling trust kindle the spark that ends the Archangel’s reign, or will the inferno of defiance consume them both?
Tropes: Angels, Archangles, Djinni, Slow Burn, Vivid World,
Wings of Defiance is an Immortal Power, Bound by Mortal Love by Virginie Joly. This is Virginie Joly's debut novel and it's a stunning novel. If you love authors like Nalini Singh, J.R. Ward or my personal favorite and a got to author of mine Sherrilyn Kenyon, then you are more then likely going to love this book. With it's vivid world, stunning character building this book puts Virginie Joly in their ranks with this debut.
This is a soft slow burn romance that builds softly and slowly, so naturally you feel like you are peering into another persons life as it is unfolding. For those who love fantasy, you are going to love the eccentricity that lives next to the sensuality of this story. Virginie has written a story that's going to draw you into this world and you'll find you walking right next to all the characters.
The love we see slowly bloom between Sestra and Uriel is one that is woven with sensuality and all these intense emotions, it's all so tangible, and yet at the same time it remains so ethereal. The slow burn is tortuous, sensual, tenuous, filled with angst and tension. Sestra and Uriel don't share their first kiss until you are about 70% though the book and you don't get any spice till the 80% mark. But you can't deny their attraction to each other, the way their chemistry continues to build, the entire time it's like it's all just one long drawn out foreplay and it's just stunning. And believe me, it's so worth the wait. It's intense, and it is smut worthy, sensual, elemental in so many aspects, and in many ways it's actually better than a lot of smut sex scenes.
I found that each interaction we saw between Sestra and Uriel was so intense and it didn't matter if they were in batter or if it was in the midst of a quiet moment, it was always so intense and I just loved it. Every character description was so amazing.
I'd really like to see each of the Archangels get their own story and book, even if is just a novella. I've got this soft spot in my heart for Kaelin and Gabriel, I really hope they both get full length novels and one of them are next. In a world this expanse with so many characters who all have their own stories, you can only anticipate that there will be more books, but the way it was written and the way it ended, you're not going to be disappointed either way.
I have to say that Virginie did such an amazing job with the world building. It is not only huge, it's vivid and you can get lost in how immersive it is. There is such a great depth to it and you can tell just how much attention to detail Virginie put into it and that has you captivated from the very beginning. Her descriptive nature in writing and picture perfect pacing throughout the novel really helped to bring this story to life for me.
The detail to characters, the way she created all the characters, gave the room to grow and develop naturally through the story was such a fantastic addition to me along with the character arcs.
Sestra has such a stunning grace, courage, strength, intelligence and strength.
Uriel on the other hand was torn between his duty and the growing love he felt for Sestra.
Both Sestra and Uriel really balanced each other I found and all the characters felt so relatable and like they were just like you and me and had their own trauma and side pieces of emotional damage.
Virginie Joly has given us such a vivd world, high emotional stakes, unforgettable characters, and fantasy with heart and this is the perfect book for anyone who loves any of the above said.
I can't wait to see what comes next from this author. She is now on my watch list.
November 19, 2025
This ARC grabbed my attention with its beautiful cover and the fact it’s about archangels (haven’t really read other stories about them) with a promise of strong women, fated love and all the wonderful parts that we readers of ‘romantasy’ enjoy. And it is indeed a rich, new world called Lunaria that the author, Virginie Joly, deftly builds with immersive descriptions, species and power dynamics where the archangels seem to be top of the deck and widely revered and respected.
There are disclaimers about some of the content being dark and violent so readers are introduced to the FMC, Sestra, as a child who is abducted by an evil archangel. We then find out she has been subjected to decades of torturous experiments (that I have to admit felt rather extreme during certain parts). The MMC is Uriel, the newly-appointed leader, or Praesus, of the archangels who live in a city named Caelum. He’s had visions of his fated mate for whom he has been waiting centuries to find…and without major spoilers, readers can begin to safely assume who this may be. The rest of the story captures their arduous journey towards one another amidst ongoing war with an enemy tribe, the Djinnis, and the evil arch nemesis.
Overall, I felt the author’s storytelling was vivid and I could envision this new world really well, even with all the new names and hierarchies to learn, etc. The main cast was introduced well along with their personalities and attributes, especially Sestra who seemed to develop and grow.
*Potential spoilers*
What I didn’t like was how her development sort of stopped. One moment, she’s appropriately suspicious, then she’s suddenly swooning over Uriel all the time (at least, it felt this way to me). Then, at others points, there did seem to be an overabundance of characters who just disappear (e.g., the hateful Keeper) or written off too quickly. Towards the end, I was admittedly skimming several pages to get through the climatic fight scenes and ceremonial details, which just all end abruptly, not even with any author’s notes or acknowledgements. I had to double check to make sure I had really reached 100%. As this was described as the start of a series, there were many loose ends that were never alluded to again, and a whole lot of other nuances that sort of got wrapped up too quickly and could have been teased more. Now, I don’t think I would read another story about this world, which is a shame as the author obviously put many hours of research and imagination into building it.
If you’re a reader who enjoys intricate world building, descriptions and an easy-to-follow love story with great secondary character banter, then I think you would enjoy this. If you prefer the more historic styles of fantasy, then you might not, as parts felt very sci-fi or space-like (and there is a lot of modern dialogue and colloquialisms). You will also like this if you enjoy lengthy books!
P.S. I am grateful to BookSirens for giving me an advanced reader’s copy of this story for which I am voluntarily writing this honest review.
P.S. 2: If you liked this, then please check out my other book reviews of stories about strong women and their handsome sidekicks!
There are disclaimers about some of the content being dark and violent so readers are introduced to the FMC, Sestra, as a child who is abducted by an evil archangel. We then find out she has been subjected to decades of torturous experiments (that I have to admit felt rather extreme during certain parts). The MMC is Uriel, the newly-appointed leader, or Praesus, of the archangels who live in a city named Caelum. He’s had visions of his fated mate for whom he has been waiting centuries to find…and without major spoilers, readers can begin to safely assume who this may be. The rest of the story captures their arduous journey towards one another amidst ongoing war with an enemy tribe, the Djinnis, and the evil arch nemesis.
Overall, I felt the author’s storytelling was vivid and I could envision this new world really well, even with all the new names and hierarchies to learn, etc. The main cast was introduced well along with their personalities and attributes, especially Sestra who seemed to develop and grow.
*Potential spoilers*
What I didn’t like was how her development sort of stopped. One moment, she’s appropriately suspicious, then she’s suddenly swooning over Uriel all the time (at least, it felt this way to me). Then, at others points, there did seem to be an overabundance of characters who just disappear (e.g., the hateful Keeper) or written off too quickly. Towards the end, I was admittedly skimming several pages to get through the climatic fight scenes and ceremonial details, which just all end abruptly, not even with any author’s notes or acknowledgements. I had to double check to make sure I had really reached 100%. As this was described as the start of a series, there were many loose ends that were never alluded to again, and a whole lot of other nuances that sort of got wrapped up too quickly and could have been teased more. Now, I don’t think I would read another story about this world, which is a shame as the author obviously put many hours of research and imagination into building it.
If you’re a reader who enjoys intricate world building, descriptions and an easy-to-follow love story with great secondary character banter, then I think you would enjoy this. If you prefer the more historic styles of fantasy, then you might not, as parts felt very sci-fi or space-like (and there is a lot of modern dialogue and colloquialisms). You will also like this if you enjoy lengthy books!
P.S. I am grateful to BookSirens for giving me an advanced reader’s copy of this story for which I am voluntarily writing this honest review.
P.S. 2: If you liked this, then please check out my other book reviews of stories about strong women and their handsome sidekicks!
November 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Wings of Defiance, by Virginie Joly, is a fascinating and emotionally-charged fantasy about power, resilience, and the fragile balance between duty and heart. At its core, it follows Uriel and Sestra, two beings shaped by pain, loyalty, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going when the world around them begins to crumble.
From the very first chapters, Joly creates a world that feels huge and lived in. Set within a realm where light and darkness blur, not just in the skies above but in the very hearts of the inhabitants who are part of it, you can feel the tension in every scene, from shifting political powers, the stirring of ancient forces, and this sense that peace is always one step from breaking. In such chaos, the author then zeroes in on something deeply human, holding together when everything threatens to fall apart.
Uriel is a character torn between responsibility and conscience. His strength isn't in command, it's in endurance, quiet and of the kind which comes from carrying the weight of others hopes. Sestra, on the other hand, carries within her the will to reclaim one's identity in the face of loss. Strong yet fragile, she is a mirror image of survival into purpose. Their connection together is not your typical romance but more layered. In fact, it's a bond born of shared struggle and understanding.
Wings of Defiance is about what it means to resist despair, to lead with empathy, and to fight for balance in a fractured world. It's a story of defiance in every sense, against oppression, against fate, and against the fear of losing what truly matters.
But most of all, the novel does not let go of the reader even when it is over. It does not concern battles or fate but involves subtle connections and the strength needed to sustain hope. All in all, Wings of Defiance is a fantastic, immersive fantasy with a perfect balance between world-building and emotion. Virginie Joly writes a story that's epic yet intimate, one that will long endure beyond the final page.
Wings of Defiance, by Virginie Joly, is a fascinating and emotionally-charged fantasy about power, resilience, and the fragile balance between duty and heart. At its core, it follows Uriel and Sestra, two beings shaped by pain, loyalty, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going when the world around them begins to crumble.
From the very first chapters, Joly creates a world that feels huge and lived in. Set within a realm where light and darkness blur, not just in the skies above but in the very hearts of the inhabitants who are part of it, you can feel the tension in every scene, from shifting political powers, the stirring of ancient forces, and this sense that peace is always one step from breaking. In such chaos, the author then zeroes in on something deeply human, holding together when everything threatens to fall apart.
Uriel is a character torn between responsibility and conscience. His strength isn't in command, it's in endurance, quiet and of the kind which comes from carrying the weight of others hopes. Sestra, on the other hand, carries within her the will to reclaim one's identity in the face of loss. Strong yet fragile, she is a mirror image of survival into purpose. Their connection together is not your typical romance but more layered. In fact, it's a bond born of shared struggle and understanding.
Wings of Defiance is about what it means to resist despair, to lead with empathy, and to fight for balance in a fractured world. It's a story of defiance in every sense, against oppression, against fate, and against the fear of losing what truly matters.
But most of all, the novel does not let go of the reader even when it is over. It does not concern battles or fate but involves subtle connections and the strength needed to sustain hope. All in all, Wings of Defiance is a fantastic, immersive fantasy with a perfect balance between world-building and emotion. Virginie Joly writes a story that's epic yet intimate, one that will long endure beyond the final page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2025
This book completely surprised me. I wasn’t sure what to expect going in, especially with how little time I had to read, but once I started, I flew through it. It hooked me right away.
Uriel and Sestra had this constant, charged tension—whether they were sharing a quiet moment or fighting side by side—and I loved their dynamic. The worldbuilding was rich and detailed, and the writing had this vivid, almost silky quality that made everything easy to picture. I honestly hope every Archangel gets their own book because the whole cast was great.
Our FMC was strong, graceful, and brave, and her balance with the MMC—who’s torn between love and duty—worked really well. The angst and yearning were exactly what I wanted. My only wish is that the characters’ backstories had a bit more depth, especially with how much care went into the world itself.
Overall, this was a fantastic read. The plot, the chemistry (not just between the main couple but the side characters too), the humor, the emotions, the twists—everything landed. I’d absolutely recommend it if you want a beautifully built world with characters you can’t help but root for.
Uriel and Sestra had this constant, charged tension—whether they were sharing a quiet moment or fighting side by side—and I loved their dynamic. The worldbuilding was rich and detailed, and the writing had this vivid, almost silky quality that made everything easy to picture. I honestly hope every Archangel gets their own book because the whole cast was great.
Our FMC was strong, graceful, and brave, and her balance with the MMC—who’s torn between love and duty—worked really well. The angst and yearning were exactly what I wanted. My only wish is that the characters’ backstories had a bit more depth, especially with how much care went into the world itself.
Overall, this was a fantastic read. The plot, the chemistry (not just between the main couple but the side characters too), the humor, the emotions, the twists—everything landed. I’d absolutely recommend it if you want a beautifully built world with characters you can’t help but root for.
November 10, 2025
Wings of Defiance is a wonderful Fantasy Romance that features one of my favorite characters, angels.
Sestra the MFC of this story was taken from her realm as a young child and kept to be used in aetheric experiments overseen by a mad Archangel.
A haunting and immersive read Sestra finally escapes from her century of captivity and seeks help from other Archangels to free her friends
As the angels work to stop the encroachment of the Djinni into their citadels war is not far behind, a bond is forming between Sestra and Archangel Uriel which will lead into a wonderfully written narrative filled with well crafted characters, danger, intrigue, surprises, passion, emotion, and heartbreak.
I so enjoyed this awesome story and look forward to what is next from this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sestra the MFC of this story was taken from her realm as a young child and kept to be used in aetheric experiments overseen by a mad Archangel.
A haunting and immersive read Sestra finally escapes from her century of captivity and seeks help from other Archangels to free her friends
As the angels work to stop the encroachment of the Djinni into their citadels war is not far behind, a bond is forming between Sestra and Archangel Uriel which will lead into a wonderfully written narrative filled with well crafted characters, danger, intrigue, surprises, passion, emotion, and heartbreak.
I so enjoyed this awesome story and look forward to what is next from this author!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2025
Epic, emotional, and beautifully written.
On Lunaria pulls you into a world where angels and Djinni clash, but the real battle is within the heart. Sestra’s journey from captivity to courage is raw and inspiring, and her connection with Uriel adds depth and tension to every page.
The writing is vivid, the world-building immersive, and the emotional stakes high. A perfect read for anyone who loves fantasy with heart, sacrifice, and unforgettable characters.
On Lunaria pulls you into a world where angels and Djinni clash, but the real battle is within the heart. Sestra’s journey from captivity to courage is raw and inspiring, and her connection with Uriel adds depth and tension to every page.
The writing is vivid, the world-building immersive, and the emotional stakes high. A perfect read for anyone who loves fantasy with heart, sacrifice, and unforgettable characters.
November 4, 2025
This book is a must read. I love fantasy and must add it to my bookshelf.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews