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The Healer and the Warlord
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jan 26Kidnapping her was the easy part. Letting her go might destroy him.
With her unprecedented healing magic, Alyx has lived a sheltered life as the daughter of the Lord of Clan Padra. She chafes under her parents' constant watch and protection and dreams of making her own path. When a legendary Warlord steals her for his master, she finally has a chance to prove she can defend herself—but protecting her heart might prove to be an impossible task.
Kelvar has always carried out his Lord’s missions without question, using his immense destructive power for the glory of Clan Katal. Kidnapping a rival Lord’s daughter and holding her for ransom should have been simple. Instead, he finds himself caught between his sworn duty and a desire that won't be denied—no matter how strong he believes himself to be.
Magic pulls them together, their clans tear them apart, and the limits of love are tested as they journey across the desert.
Steamy, bingeable, and filled with legendary magic, The Healer and the Warlord is a fantasy romance with forced proximity, banter, and a love that can move mountains. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
The Healer and the Warlord is a prequel novella to the Ballan Desert Trilogy. It can be read as a standalone, but the legend of Kelvar and Alyx continues in the main series.
With her unprecedented healing magic, Alyx has lived a sheltered life as the daughter of the Lord of Clan Padra. She chafes under her parents' constant watch and protection and dreams of making her own path. When a legendary Warlord steals her for his master, she finally has a chance to prove she can defend herself—but protecting her heart might prove to be an impossible task.
Kelvar has always carried out his Lord’s missions without question, using his immense destructive power for the glory of Clan Katal. Kidnapping a rival Lord’s daughter and holding her for ransom should have been simple. Instead, he finds himself caught between his sworn duty and a desire that won't be denied—no matter how strong he believes himself to be.
Magic pulls them together, their clans tear them apart, and the limits of love are tested as they journey across the desert.
Steamy, bingeable, and filled with legendary magic, The Healer and the Warlord is a fantasy romance with forced proximity, banter, and a love that can move mountains. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Jennifer L. Armentrout.
The Healer and the Warlord is a prequel novella to the Ballan Desert Trilogy. It can be read as a standalone, but the legend of Kelvar and Alyx continues in the main series.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 20, 2026
123 people want to read
About the author
S.C. Grayson
11 books215 followersI've been reading fantasy novels since I was a little girl stealing books from my older sister’s shelves, and that has developed into a love of writing and storytelling. My writing is currently focused on fantasy and paranormal romance. When I'm not sitting in a local coffee shop writing and consuming an iced americano, I am a nurse researcher focused on breast cancer genetics. Though born and raised in the Chicago area, I live in Maryland with my loving husband and our two cats, who enjoy contributing to my work by walking across my keyboard at inopportune moments (the cats, not the husband).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
January 7, 2026
This is a sweet and steamy romantasy novella that packs quite a bit into about 100 pages. Kelvar is a warlord who is tasked by his master to kidnap an enemy clan lord’s daughter (Alyx) to hold her for ransom. They start to fall for each other as they make the trek back to Kelvar’s clan.
This story featured an interesting magic system where both MC’s drew their magic from the desert. I usually love healer FMC’s and Alyx is both kind and brave, while Kelvar is protective and honorable. The writing is mostly polished with a few quirky metaphors. The love story felt slightly rushed, but was still very sweet. I had fun reading this and I really couldn’t ask for anything more in 100 pages.
Reading a novella is a great way to get a feel for an author and I’m interested to know more about the magic system in this series. There are two other full books out, and I’ll be adding the first in the Ballan Desert series to my TBR.
Thank you to SC Grayson for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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For some reason I always love when the FMC is a healer 🫶🏼
This story featured an interesting magic system where both MC’s drew their magic from the desert. I usually love healer FMC’s and Alyx is both kind and brave, while Kelvar is protective and honorable. The writing is mostly polished with a few quirky metaphors. The love story felt slightly rushed, but was still very sweet. I had fun reading this and I really couldn’t ask for anything more in 100 pages.
Reading a novella is a great way to get a feel for an author and I’m interested to know more about the magic system in this series. There are two other full books out, and I’ll be adding the first in the Ballan Desert series to my TBR.
Thank you to SC Grayson for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
————————————————
For some reason I always love when the FMC is a healer 🫶🏼
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to Susan C. Grayson for this eARC! Here is my honest review.
Echoes of Desire
‘The Healer and the Warlord’ is a short prequel that introduces the world of the Ballan Desert Trilogy. Against the scorching heat of the desert, a healer and a feared warlord cross paths, forced to work together under circumstances where trust is barely possible. From the very first pages, the story centers on their interaction, and that tension quickly becomes the driving force of the narrative.
The novella’s greatest strength lies in the chemistry between the main characters. Despite the limited page count, S.C. Grayson manages to create a connection that feels natural, never rushed or forced. The forced proximity acts as a catalyst for small, intimate moments that reveal how trust and feelings gradually develop. These moments linger, making the story feel larger and more substantial than its short length might suggest.
The Ballan Desert itself is more than just a backdrop; it presses down on the characters and shapes their choices. The setting is unforgiving and atmospheric, with just enough detail to spark curiosity about the wider world beyond this prequel. As an introduction to the trilogy, the novella succeeds in setting the tone and inviting further exploration.
At the same time, the short format occasionally feels a little rushed. Some events and emotional developments could have benefited from more room to unfold. Readers who enjoy intricate plots or richly developed fantasy worlds may find this a slight limitation.
Overall, ‘The Healer and the Warlord’ is a fast-paced, romantically charged fantasy story that shines through its atmosphere and character dynamics. It is a promising and enjoyable introduction to Grayson’s world, leaving readers eager to discover what comes next.
Forced Proximity | Enemies to Lovers | Slow Burn | Desert Romance | Grumpy/Sunshine | Opposites Attract | Secret/Hidden Feelings | Dangerous Setting | Romantic Tension | Enemies Forced to Work Together | Protective Instinct
Echoes of Desire
‘The Healer and the Warlord’ is a short prequel that introduces the world of the Ballan Desert Trilogy. Against the scorching heat of the desert, a healer and a feared warlord cross paths, forced to work together under circumstances where trust is barely possible. From the very first pages, the story centers on their interaction, and that tension quickly becomes the driving force of the narrative.
The novella’s greatest strength lies in the chemistry between the main characters. Despite the limited page count, S.C. Grayson manages to create a connection that feels natural, never rushed or forced. The forced proximity acts as a catalyst for small, intimate moments that reveal how trust and feelings gradually develop. These moments linger, making the story feel larger and more substantial than its short length might suggest.
The Ballan Desert itself is more than just a backdrop; it presses down on the characters and shapes their choices. The setting is unforgiving and atmospheric, with just enough detail to spark curiosity about the wider world beyond this prequel. As an introduction to the trilogy, the novella succeeds in setting the tone and inviting further exploration.
At the same time, the short format occasionally feels a little rushed. Some events and emotional developments could have benefited from more room to unfold. Readers who enjoy intricate plots or richly developed fantasy worlds may find this a slight limitation.
Overall, ‘The Healer and the Warlord’ is a fast-paced, romantically charged fantasy story that shines through its atmosphere and character dynamics. It is a promising and enjoyable introduction to Grayson’s world, leaving readers eager to discover what comes next.
Forced Proximity | Enemies to Lovers | Slow Burn | Desert Romance | Grumpy/Sunshine | Opposites Attract | Secret/Hidden Feelings | Dangerous Setting | Romantic Tension | Enemies Forced to Work Together | Protective Instinct
January 4, 2026
4.5 stars ✨
This was my introduction into S.C Grayson’s writing, as well as The Ballan Desert world. This novella was so immersive and had me hooked after the first chapter. We immediately get a thorough idea of our setting, which is a desert that may or may not be sentient. I’d typically imagine a desert as being quite plain, however this setting was described into something complex and beautiful. The magic system is very unique as well and is interwoven with the desert.
The love story was beautiful and I adored the way it progressed. Our MMC Kelvar and our FMC Alyx are supposed to be enemies, however they quickly realize that they have a strong attraction to each other. Their magic is also attracted to one another’s, which is a microtrope I LOVE. Though they fell for each other quickly, it still felt genuine and sweet. And the spice was spicing. Chef’s kiss.
“If my power was the searing, unforgiving intensity of the desert sun, then hers was the calm majesty of the velvety night sky, lit with endless stars on a moonless night.”
“He was the dangerous beauty of the desert incarnate, and he was mine.”
This book was full of excitement and intrigue, but didn’t feel overwhelming for a short novella. You also don’t have to have already begun reading into the Ballan Desert world to enjoy and understand this novella, which I appreciate.
Thank you to S.C. Grayson for the eARC of this novella. I will be continuing this series based on how much I loved this prequel. 🫶🏻
This was my introduction into S.C Grayson’s writing, as well as The Ballan Desert world. This novella was so immersive and had me hooked after the first chapter. We immediately get a thorough idea of our setting, which is a desert that may or may not be sentient. I’d typically imagine a desert as being quite plain, however this setting was described into something complex and beautiful. The magic system is very unique as well and is interwoven with the desert.
The love story was beautiful and I adored the way it progressed. Our MMC Kelvar and our FMC Alyx are supposed to be enemies, however they quickly realize that they have a strong attraction to each other. Their magic is also attracted to one another’s, which is a microtrope I LOVE. Though they fell for each other quickly, it still felt genuine and sweet. And the spice was spicing. Chef’s kiss.
“If my power was the searing, unforgiving intensity of the desert sun, then hers was the calm majesty of the velvety night sky, lit with endless stars on a moonless night.”
“He was the dangerous beauty of the desert incarnate, and he was mine.”
This book was full of excitement and intrigue, but didn’t feel overwhelming for a short novella. You also don’t have to have already begun reading into the Ballan Desert world to enjoy and understand this novella, which I appreciate.
Thank you to S.C. Grayson for the eARC of this novella. I will be continuing this series based on how much I loved this prequel. 🫶🏻
January 14, 2026
This is a short quick read a fantasy romance novella set in the rich, desert shaped world of the Ballen Desert a prequel to the Ballan Desert trilogy.
FMC Alyx is strong and vulnerable, a healer with very powerful and rare magic with strict protection around her all her life. This made her yearn for her freedom as she wants to provide and do more rather than be sheltered away.
Kelvar the MMC embodies the archetype of a fierce warrior who is unsettled by his growing interest in someone he should have no feelings for. He is a legendary warlord loyal to his clan. He kidnaps Alyx for ransom, but instead it ignites something unexpected between them and they get closer through emotional connection & the use of magic as they travel through the harsh desert together despite their clans’ being rivalries & are against them being together.
I felt this book was fast paced & very engaging & easy to read. Even with the shorter length, there’s enough character growth & action to make the story feel complete solo. The writing is descriptive strong enough to ground the reader in this fantasy desert setting without overwhelming the romance. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series as I really enjoyed this & am intrigued by the story p.s. I finished this in 1 day :)
FMC Alyx is strong and vulnerable, a healer with very powerful and rare magic with strict protection around her all her life. This made her yearn for her freedom as she wants to provide and do more rather than be sheltered away.
Kelvar the MMC embodies the archetype of a fierce warrior who is unsettled by his growing interest in someone he should have no feelings for. He is a legendary warlord loyal to his clan. He kidnaps Alyx for ransom, but instead it ignites something unexpected between them and they get closer through emotional connection & the use of magic as they travel through the harsh desert together despite their clans’ being rivalries & are against them being together.
I felt this book was fast paced & very engaging & easy to read. Even with the shorter length, there’s enough character growth & action to make the story feel complete solo. The writing is descriptive strong enough to ground the reader in this fantasy desert setting without overwhelming the romance. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series as I really enjoyed this & am intrigued by the story p.s. I finished this in 1 day :)
January 4, 2026
Thank you from the bottom of my soul and heart to this wonderful author for sharing an ARC of this prequel novella with me!!
“This is a horrible idea”
“We can’t”
“Why not?”
“I don’t remember”
“Your gentle bloom is more powerful than my raging storm”
I’m absolutely speechless. I have no words. Not one expression could ever fully describe the intense feelings I experiences while reading this book. Seeing it all come around. Finding the answers to the intricate legend that haunts Keera and Erix’ life. I loved it. Kelvar and Alyx were beautiful. Beautifully devastating and sweet. Horribly in love with one another. Ready to forsake everything for one another. Ready to break down the desert and bring up a new world if only they could live in peace. I loved it. Loved every second of their story. Loved the enemies to lovers. Loved the forced proximity. Loved the moments when she was breaking down his armour. Loved the moment they finally admitted what was growing in them. Loved it all. And loved the ending. For them was a happy one. And I couldn’t have asked for more.
“Because it’s hard to believe something so fine and delicate could exist in the same desert that if full pf war and death”
“Don’t deprive me of the noises I work so hard to pull from those pretty lips”
“This is a horrible idea”
“We can’t”
“Why not?”
“I don’t remember”
“Your gentle bloom is more powerful than my raging storm”
I’m absolutely speechless. I have no words. Not one expression could ever fully describe the intense feelings I experiences while reading this book. Seeing it all come around. Finding the answers to the intricate legend that haunts Keera and Erix’ life. I loved it. Kelvar and Alyx were beautiful. Beautifully devastating and sweet. Horribly in love with one another. Ready to forsake everything for one another. Ready to break down the desert and bring up a new world if only they could live in peace. I loved it. Loved every second of their story. Loved the enemies to lovers. Loved the forced proximity. Loved the moments when she was breaking down his armour. Loved the moment they finally admitted what was growing in them. Loved it all. And loved the ending. For them was a happy one. And I couldn’t have asked for more.
“Because it’s hard to believe something so fine and delicate could exist in the same desert that if full pf war and death”
“Don’t deprive me of the noises I work so hard to pull from those pretty lips”
January 5, 2026
ARC Review: I received an advance reader copy of this book and all opinions stated are my own and honest.
This is the first book by S.C. Grayson that I’ve read, and I’m absolutely in love with her storytelling. This steamy romantasy is a standalone novella, a prequel to The Ballan Desert Series. Although I’m not familiar with this series, Grayson writes in a way that allows readers to jump in and quickly understand what this world is about.
She builds this captivating desert fantasy with a magic system that feels fresh and completely woven into everything: the setting, the characters, and their lives.
The perspectives of Kelvar and Alyx feel authentic. They’re well-developed characters whose motives and logic make sense. They fit perfectly within their world, making you feel as though you’re right there with them. The chemistry and banter between the two are absolutely perfect.
For such a short read, it ended nicely, though I wish it had been longer since I had such a fun time reading it!
This is the first book by S.C. Grayson that I’ve read, and I’m absolutely in love with her storytelling. This steamy romantasy is a standalone novella, a prequel to The Ballan Desert Series. Although I’m not familiar with this series, Grayson writes in a way that allows readers to jump in and quickly understand what this world is about.
She builds this captivating desert fantasy with a magic system that feels fresh and completely woven into everything: the setting, the characters, and their lives.
The perspectives of Kelvar and Alyx feel authentic. They’re well-developed characters whose motives and logic make sense. They fit perfectly within their world, making you feel as though you’re right there with them. The chemistry and banter between the two are absolutely perfect.
For such a short read, it ended nicely, though I wish it had been longer since I had such a fun time reading it!
January 5, 2026
ARC review:
Oh my word! The way the author is able to immerse their readers into the plot and the storyline!!!!
I loved the way Alyx and Kelvar interact with each other from the get go and they way they just helplessly fall in love with each other!!!!
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books by her!!!
Oh my word! The way the author is able to immerse their readers into the plot and the storyline!!!!
I loved the way Alyx and Kelvar interact with each other from the get go and they way they just helplessly fall in love with each other!!!!
I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books by her!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received from Author.
Loved these characters, even though I was with them for a short time. This book does a great job of creating chemistry for our main characters and really giving you an idea of who they are by the end of it. I will definitely be reading other books written by this Author.
Loved these characters, even though I was with them for a short time. This book does a great job of creating chemistry for our main characters and really giving you an idea of who they are by the end of it. I will definitely be reading other books written by this Author.
January 8, 2026
My 2026 reads are off to a fabulous start! Short, sweet and steamy romance. I enjoyed the magic system and how the world was set up. This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I will definitely be reading more by her soon.
Thank you S.C Grayson for the eARC of this book
Thank you S.C Grayson for the eARC of this book
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was completely drawn into The Healer and the Warlord from the very start. Alyx and Kelvar’s chemistry had me invested in every scene, and their enemies-to-lovers journey was both exciting and heartwarming. The desert world felt so vivid, and the magic made it even more enchanting.
After finishing this, I couldn’t help myself—I immediately added the rest of The Ballan Desert series to my TBR! Fast, steamy, and character-driven, this novella is a must-read for fantasy romance fans.
Tropes I loved:
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Adventure/Quest
Magical Abilities
Clan Rivalries
Slow-Burn Romance
After finishing this, I couldn’t help myself—I immediately added the rest of The Ballan Desert series to my TBR! Fast, steamy, and character-driven, this novella is a must-read for fantasy romance fans.
Tropes I loved:
Enemies-to-Lovers
Forced Proximity
Adventure/Quest
Magical Abilities
Clan Rivalries
Slow-Burn Romance
January 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
thank you netgalley for this arc <3 the way i fell for alyx and kelvar omg!! i love a girl that finds strength in her gentleness and of course her man that is so unbelievably obsessed 🙂↕️
this was my first time reading s.c. grayson and this did not!! disappoint. the writing was super easy to get into and i found myself getting addicted FAST. there was a perfect mix of information about the characters and the world, i had so much fun reading about everything. i’ll definitely be looking into the following series. 😋
thank you netgalley for this arc <3 the way i fell for alyx and kelvar omg!! i love a girl that finds strength in her gentleness and of course her man that is so unbelievably obsessed 🙂↕️
this was my first time reading s.c. grayson and this did not!! disappoint. the writing was super easy to get into and i found myself getting addicted FAST. there was a perfect mix of information about the characters and the world, i had so much fun reading about everything. i’ll definitely be looking into the following series. 😋
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the e-ARC book, I couldn’t put this book down. It is the perfect introduction to the series. Which is now next on my TBR list. It is fast-paced but not so fast you want it to slow down.
The magic system is a unique one to me, I have not read many books with this type of magic. That was a really nice change. The world building is also different from what I usually read, so the magic and world building make this book so much better for me.
I loved the characters so much. The FMC was sweet but learned she can be strong in her own way. The MMC gave her room to learn her strength and was able to learn from her.
The book was so hard to put down, I was able to read it in one day once I started, I did not want to put it down!
The magic system is a unique one to me, I have not read many books with this type of magic. That was a really nice change. The world building is also different from what I usually read, so the magic and world building make this book so much better for me.
I loved the characters so much. The FMC was sweet but learned she can be strong in her own way. The MMC gave her room to learn her strength and was able to learn from her.
The book was so hard to put down, I was able to read it in one day once I started, I did not want to put it down!
January 3, 2026
I absolutely love this author her writing is so good she writes believable characters I couldn’t put it down it was a novella I miss the world so much I love the plot il read anything this author puts out I’d highly recommend this author she writes great fantasy romance books with a lot of our favourite troupes I’d highly recommend this author you will not be disappointed another great read from this author
Review of advance copy received from Author
Explicit. I loved this novella! The story takes place in a desert, which is its own character and influences the people that live there. The magic system was described beautifully and I loved how magic itself felt like another living being. The characters were engaging and I loved how they viewed each other throughout their journey together. There were very few side character, but there was a horse so extra points for that. All in all the story is brief but sweet, and the conclusion was unexpected in the best of ways. If you like nature magic and enemies to lovers lite, you will like this one.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 2, 2026
This is my ARC review for The Healer and the Warlord!
I loved this prequel novella! The plot was fantastic, the story felt immersive. I loved getting to meet Alyx and Kelvar and read about their journey through the Ballan Desert! This is the first book I’ve read by S.C. Grayson, and I enjoyed it very much and have plans to read more by her!
I loved this prequel novella! The plot was fantastic, the story felt immersive. I loved getting to meet Alyx and Kelvar and read about their journey through the Ballan Desert! This is the first book I’ve read by S.C. Grayson, and I enjoyed it very much and have plans to read more by her!
January 4, 2026
The is my ARC review.
I went into this book not knowing anything about it. The plot starts immediately in the first chapter. I was instantly hooked needing to know what was going to happen next. It was lovely reading about the how the characters relationship blossomed into something beautiful. This was my first book by S.C Grayson and it definitely won’t be my last.
Thank you for choosing me to be part of your ARC team
I went into this book not knowing anything about it. The plot starts immediately in the first chapter. I was instantly hooked needing to know what was going to happen next. It was lovely reading about the how the characters relationship blossomed into something beautiful. This was my first book by S.C Grayson and it definitely won’t be my last.
Thank you for choosing me to be part of your ARC team
January 5, 2026
This was a short read about finished in one sitting. This was my first book by this author so I can’t base it off any other works of theirs. I would say things in the book moved way too fast and didn’t seem entirely believable to me but the writing was well done.
January 14, 2026
3.5 stars
This novella was a super cute, quick read giving us the details on how Kelvar and Alyx met.
While technically this book can be read as a standalone I would strongly discourage it, as the main series dives into the details of the desert and her magic. Having this background makes the Healer and the Warlord so much more enjoyable in my eyes.
I did find it just a little rushed and insta-lovey, but all in all a super wholesome story.
Thank you S.C. Grayson for sending me this eARC!
This novella was a super cute, quick read giving us the details on how Kelvar and Alyx met.
While technically this book can be read as a standalone I would strongly discourage it, as the main series dives into the details of the desert and her magic. Having this background makes the Healer and the Warlord so much more enjoyable in my eyes.
I did find it just a little rushed and insta-lovey, but all in all a super wholesome story.
Thank you S.C. Grayson for sending me this eARC!
Review of advance copy
The Healer and the Warlord by S.C. Grayson follows a Warlord that sneaks into a rival Lords encampment in the dead of night and this Warlord is a mage that can wield powerful magic and kidnaps the daughter of the rival Lord to carry out his Lords mission without question and Kelver is a very powerful Warlord or mage as I call him because he has immense destructive power in his magic the way it is described in the book and in the process of having to deliver her to his Lord she falls in love with hiim and it is a true breathtaking magical and romantic adventure that will leave you wanting much more more after this prequel and the way it ends is seriously climatic. If you like Dragonlance level magic systems with intense action scenes and an enemies to lovers trope this book is for you. This is my first book by S.C. Grayson it is a Prequel it is only 89 pages however I wish more writers would start their stories the way S.C. Grayson starts her story because it gives readers a more in depth look at the world she is going to be building in future books. I like how in this prequel the world building sets the stage for a more detailed and in depth storyline down the road and in future books readers wont have to slog through different POV's or confusing contextulazation issues because this prequel does the world building for you and it gets right to the point. The writing was very sharp and to the point and engages the reader immediately and pulls them and doesnt let go and S.C. Graysons writing style is immaculate and the sentence structure really lays out perfectly so the rest of the story flows like a river and doesnt confuse the reader. Her writing style is very specific and her choice of words and describing every minute detail and utilization of the English language is so beautifully written it is almost Shakespearian poetic how every detail is described in its entirety. I love how magic is referenced alot and it influences everything around our main characters and other characters in the book with almost a Star Wars Force like quality it is mesmerizing and enchanting and makes the reader want to know more about the magic systems in this world and from the writing style I cant wait to read her other two books that are already out now that I have a better understanding of how the Ballan Desert series is going to go from here on in since this book sets the stage for the other two books. This author's penned work has turned me on to this genre of books and any other book that S.C. Grayson has written she is an amazing author.
As a reader who has never read S.C. Graysons work before I have to say Im going to buy Blood of the Sands and Crown of the Dunes after reading this prequel because her writing style and the characters as well as the magic system and the way her writing sytle incorporates magic into the entire storyline it weaves its way in everything and it entrances the reader on a whole different level to the point Sandspear from Game of Thrones meets Dragonlances Raistlin Majere meets the magic system from Quiksilver. This prequel does what every author in my opinion should be doing and writing a short prequel or novella if you will to explain where there original storyline is going to go to give a proper backstory that way the reader in the future isnt asking questions when they read the main storyline. This prequel lays out the perfect foundation to what I can see being a beautifully written duology, trilogy or saga. Every chapter is from a POV standpoint with the characters name they are going to be referencing in that chapter so future readers should be aware of that as well to give them a contextual heads up so it makes reading alot easier. However I had to use context clues to figure out the male main character Kelvar and the daughter that Kelvar is acquiring for his Lord her name is Alyx. As readers engage with this story I would encourage you to use context clues to figure that out because it doesnt spell it out in the beginning of the book, you have to keep reading to put two and two together. In the second chapter titled Alyx you find out who the male main character is and what he is and what clan he is from that part should be cut and put in the POV of Kelvar as well as in the chapter of Alyx so the reader knows what is going on, but those are the only two minor flaws in the story the rest is engaging and concisely detailed. All in all great prequel and Im glad once again this author released a prequel to give readers a detailed look into her unqiue style of worldbuilding. I cannot wait to buy the first two books in the Ballan Desert series and hopefully since this is going to be a trilogy the third book comes out soon.
Overall this was an engaging read that I would recommend to readers who enjoy enemies to lovers tropes, a epic fantasy with a lot of spice and gives the Romantasy genre a run for its money. There is a trigger warning in the beginning as there is explicit sexual content so I suggest readers heed that because there is an equal amount of spice adenture and romance and there is a kidnapping storyline with a ransom so fair warning. I cannot wait for the rest of this series to come out. Id like to wish a thank you to Victory Editing the name of the Publishing Company that gave me early ARC access so I could provide this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All of the opinions stated herein are my own.
As a reader who has never read S.C. Graysons work before I have to say Im going to buy Blood of the Sands and Crown of the Dunes after reading this prequel because her writing style and the characters as well as the magic system and the way her writing sytle incorporates magic into the entire storyline it weaves its way in everything and it entrances the reader on a whole different level to the point Sandspear from Game of Thrones meets Dragonlances Raistlin Majere meets the magic system from Quiksilver. This prequel does what every author in my opinion should be doing and writing a short prequel or novella if you will to explain where there original storyline is going to go to give a proper backstory that way the reader in the future isnt asking questions when they read the main storyline. This prequel lays out the perfect foundation to what I can see being a beautifully written duology, trilogy or saga. Every chapter is from a POV standpoint with the characters name they are going to be referencing in that chapter so future readers should be aware of that as well to give them a contextual heads up so it makes reading alot easier. However I had to use context clues to figure out the male main character Kelvar and the daughter that Kelvar is acquiring for his Lord her name is Alyx. As readers engage with this story I would encourage you to use context clues to figure that out because it doesnt spell it out in the beginning of the book, you have to keep reading to put two and two together. In the second chapter titled Alyx you find out who the male main character is and what he is and what clan he is from that part should be cut and put in the POV of Kelvar as well as in the chapter of Alyx so the reader knows what is going on, but those are the only two minor flaws in the story the rest is engaging and concisely detailed. All in all great prequel and Im glad once again this author released a prequel to give readers a detailed look into her unqiue style of worldbuilding. I cannot wait to buy the first two books in the Ballan Desert series and hopefully since this is going to be a trilogy the third book comes out soon.
Overall this was an engaging read that I would recommend to readers who enjoy enemies to lovers tropes, a epic fantasy with a lot of spice and gives the Romantasy genre a run for its money. There is a trigger warning in the beginning as there is explicit sexual content so I suggest readers heed that because there is an equal amount of spice adenture and romance and there is a kidnapping storyline with a ransom so fair warning. I cannot wait for the rest of this series to come out. Id like to wish a thank you to Victory Editing the name of the Publishing Company that gave me early ARC access so I could provide this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All of the opinions stated herein are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an eARC directly from the author and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op.
- 🌵Desert setting
- He is the most powerful warlord for a clan 💥
- 👑 She is the daughter of a different clan lord
- She is the most powerful healer 🩺
- 😳 He kidnaps her
- One horse 🐴
- 🔥 Share one bedroll to preserve heat
- Touch her and bye bye 👋🏼
- 🌶️ Spicey
This was a fast-paced, romantic novella that takes place in a fantasy world. This is about finding your true love and not fighting against that love, rather fighting for it, no matter what. I really enjoyed how refreshing this novella was. I love a good slow-burn, especially when the characters fight the tension between them. Yet, it is nice to take a break from that trope and read about characters who are not scared or so full of guilt and low self-esteem that they pretend they don’t have feelings or are not attracted to the other. Currently, I am really into books where there is direct communication, the characters are bluntly honest with themselves and others (especially the love interest), and cut the crap. This novella was that and I was alllllll for it!
I was drawn in from the first chapter, I mean IMMEDIATELY hooked. S.C. was not playing around…. The plot and action starts immediately. Emotions like anxiety, anticipation, and fear were all provoked in the first two chapters. Then I felt joy, longing, anger, surprise, love, and so much more as the book progressed. The plot was strong, the tension was high, there were multiple action scenes, and the romance was thick (pun intended 😉). The writing was descriptive and showed us thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and body’s responses. We were not told really anything, we were shown, and I loved this! Both characters had significant growth and found themselves by finding each other and being challenged. The fact that S.C. could fit all the above in and not make it feel crammed or rushed within 110 pages is IMPRESSIVE!!!
The setting was in the desert, this was unique and I enjoyed this. Further, the magic stood out as different from other books in this genre. This was a novella focused on romance and setting up the world building for book 1; therefore, we were not told or shown a whole lot about the world or magic system, but that did not impact the story in any way. We were given just enough to understand and have it make sense. I am excited to learn more in book 1.
I am sold and immediately purchased book 1’s audiobook!
- 🌵Desert setting
- He is the most powerful warlord for a clan 💥
- 👑 She is the daughter of a different clan lord
- She is the most powerful healer 🩺
- 😳 He kidnaps her
- One horse 🐴
- 🔥 Share one bedroll to preserve heat
- Touch her and bye bye 👋🏼
- 🌶️ Spicey
This was a fast-paced, romantic novella that takes place in a fantasy world. This is about finding your true love and not fighting against that love, rather fighting for it, no matter what. I really enjoyed how refreshing this novella was. I love a good slow-burn, especially when the characters fight the tension between them. Yet, it is nice to take a break from that trope and read about characters who are not scared or so full of guilt and low self-esteem that they pretend they don’t have feelings or are not attracted to the other. Currently, I am really into books where there is direct communication, the characters are bluntly honest with themselves and others (especially the love interest), and cut the crap. This novella was that and I was alllllll for it!
I was drawn in from the first chapter, I mean IMMEDIATELY hooked. S.C. was not playing around…. The plot and action starts immediately. Emotions like anxiety, anticipation, and fear were all provoked in the first two chapters. Then I felt joy, longing, anger, surprise, love, and so much more as the book progressed. The plot was strong, the tension was high, there were multiple action scenes, and the romance was thick (pun intended 😉). The writing was descriptive and showed us thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and body’s responses. We were not told really anything, we were shown, and I loved this! Both characters had significant growth and found themselves by finding each other and being challenged. The fact that S.C. could fit all the above in and not make it feel crammed or rushed within 110 pages is IMPRESSIVE!!!
The setting was in the desert, this was unique and I enjoyed this. Further, the magic stood out as different from other books in this genre. This was a novella focused on romance and setting up the world building for book 1; therefore, we were not told or shown a whole lot about the world or magic system, but that did not impact the story in any way. We were given just enough to understand and have it make sense. I am excited to learn more in book 1.
I am sold and immediately purchased book 1’s audiobook!
January 13, 2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, one horse, he falls first, touch her and die, magical world/desert
I received an ARC of this book ahead of publication. I’m writing this honest review voluntarily and am grateful to S. C. Grayson for the opportunity to read it.
I have to say I'm not usually a fan of novellas as once I get invested in a story I want more of it immediately, but I will make an exception for this one--it was fantastic. While the book was short, at around 100 pages, the author lays out the beginning of The Ballan Desert trilogy beautifully. We meet Alyx, the sheltered daughter of a rival clan lord, and her kidnapper Kelvar, a mysterious Warlord from Clan Katal. The novella follows them during their journey through the Ballan Desert as Kelvar returns home to complete job tasked to him. What he doesn't expect is to fall for Alyx along the way, and to find that the desert has blessed him yet again when his heart's desire is reciprocated.
The magical system in this world seems to be unique in that the power is drawn from the world itself, and can recognize equals or at least draw those with similar strengths together (bordering on sentience? Hard to say but interesting idea). While the FMC is soft and kind, she is also very powerful with her talents and brave enough to stand up to those who tried to keep her "caged" for her own protection. The MMC compliments her nicely with his raw strength and his power's potential, going so far to create an entirely new world for the one he loves.
The spicy scenes were quite tastefully written and were surprisingly sweet given the borderline Stockholm syndrome vibe of the plot. My only criticism is that the romance was a bit rushed--maybe love at first sight when magic is at play? Realistically 2 days is a little intense I think but perhaps I've just been reading too many slow burns and am a little biased. HOWEVER, the set up for the rest of the series was perfect and creative, and this book could easily be a stand alone thanks to the lack of a cliff hanger ending. Overall, a great read and I'll definitely be checking out the rest of her books in this trilogy!
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Tropes: enemies to lovers, forced proximity, one horse, he falls first, touch her and die, magical world/desert
I received an ARC of this book ahead of publication. I’m writing this honest review voluntarily and am grateful to S. C. Grayson for the opportunity to read it.
I have to say I'm not usually a fan of novellas as once I get invested in a story I want more of it immediately, but I will make an exception for this one--it was fantastic. While the book was short, at around 100 pages, the author lays out the beginning of The Ballan Desert trilogy beautifully. We meet Alyx, the sheltered daughter of a rival clan lord, and her kidnapper Kelvar, a mysterious Warlord from Clan Katal. The novella follows them during their journey through the Ballan Desert as Kelvar returns home to complete job tasked to him. What he doesn't expect is to fall for Alyx along the way, and to find that the desert has blessed him yet again when his heart's desire is reciprocated.
The magical system in this world seems to be unique in that the power is drawn from the world itself, and can recognize equals or at least draw those with similar strengths together (bordering on sentience? Hard to say but interesting idea). While the FMC is soft and kind, she is also very powerful with her talents and brave enough to stand up to those who tried to keep her "caged" for her own protection. The MMC compliments her nicely with his raw strength and his power's potential, going so far to create an entirely new world for the one he loves.
The spicy scenes were quite tastefully written and were surprisingly sweet given the borderline Stockholm syndrome vibe of the plot. My only criticism is that the romance was a bit rushed--maybe love at first sight when magic is at play? Realistically 2 days is a little intense I think but perhaps I've just been reading too many slow burns and am a little biased. HOWEVER, the set up for the rest of the series was perfect and creative, and this book could easily be a stand alone thanks to the lack of a cliff hanger ending. Overall, a great read and I'll definitely be checking out the rest of her books in this trilogy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
***Thank you to SC Grayson for my ARC.***
Let me preface this by saying that this was my first ARC and I haven't read the Ballan Desert series that this prequel is based on. But, oh boy... no, just no.
Proceed with caution: spoilers ahead.
This book is just roughly over 100 pages and is the epitome of insta-love. Actually, the story moves at such a fast pace that I had trouble caring about the characters at all(?) In the span of less than a week, the main characters
MMC is the supposed ruthless warlord of a rival clan but not once does he really pose a threat to FMC. In fact, soon after their initial meeting he reveals something personal about himself to her. He behaves rather lovingly toward her almost immediately, which in turn does something to his powers. FMC has magic as well and they intertwine with one another but in what way, gods-knows-what, because the author doesn't do a great job of explaining it. The connection between MMC and his horse felt more real than between the main characters.
Overall, the writing is clunky and the spice doesn't feel deserved. I'm sorry to say, but as a standalone prequel it doesn't make me want to read the series on which its based.
Let me preface this by saying that this was my first ARC and I haven't read the Ballan Desert series that this prequel is based on. But, oh boy... no, just no.
Proceed with caution: spoilers ahead.
This book is just roughly over 100 pages and is the epitome of insta-love. Actually, the story moves at such a fast pace that I had trouble caring about the characters at all(?) In the span of less than a week, the main characters
MMC is the supposed ruthless warlord of a rival clan but not once does he really pose a threat to FMC. In fact, soon after their initial meeting he reveals something personal about himself to her. He behaves rather lovingly toward her almost immediately, which in turn does something to his powers. FMC has magic as well and they intertwine with one another but in what way, gods-knows-what, because the author doesn't do a great job of explaining it. The connection between MMC and his horse felt more real than between the main characters.
Overall, the writing is clunky and the spice doesn't feel deserved. I'm sorry to say, but as a standalone prequel it doesn't make me want to read the series on which its based.
January 17, 2026
4⭐️|1🌶️
First off, can we talk about how INSANELY fun it was to go back in time, like, 200 years-ish before the main series? I mean, we’ve only ever had these tiny breadcrumbs about Kelvar and Anyx dropped in Blood of the Sands, and I’ve been sitting there like, “Yes, yes, give me the lore, give me the drama, I need the angst!” and this novella absolutely delivers. I swear, it’s like being handed a delicious, mysterious appetizer that suddenly fills in all the gaps you didn’t even realize were there, without spoiling a single thing about what happens after the founding of Kelvadan or the upcoming book in the Ballan Desert series.
And the parallels. Ohhh, the parallels. Erix and Keera fans, hold onto your hats, because you are going to see echoes of these two all over Kelvar and Anyx. I was side-eyeing this novella the whole time, whispering to myself, “Hmm, is this Keera’s oasis? Could it actually be the same oasis?” The fact that the story drops little hints like that makes me feel like I’m some kind of a detective piecing together a historical puzzle, and I love it.
Now, let’s get real for a second and talk about the spice. Ohhhh, the spice. I am here for consensual romance and all the tension in the world, but if I see one more “delicate flower” or “nectar” metaphor describing her… downstairs… I might actually combust. I physically cringed. I might have audibly groaned. Like, I get it, writers, you’re trying to be sensual and poetic—but sweet baby Jesus... And yet… somehow, the story is still so fun that I can forgive the moments of botanical embarrassment. I still ended up smiling like a loon at their chemistry, even as I side-eyed the prose like, “Are you serious right now?”
And overall? I can’t even. I am obsessed. It filled in their story so nicely, it made me feel like I’ve been let in on a secret handshake, it gave me nostalgia for the main series while also expanding the lore in ways I didn’t know I needed!
First off, can we talk about how INSANELY fun it was to go back in time, like, 200 years-ish before the main series? I mean, we’ve only ever had these tiny breadcrumbs about Kelvar and Anyx dropped in Blood of the Sands, and I’ve been sitting there like, “Yes, yes, give me the lore, give me the drama, I need the angst!” and this novella absolutely delivers. I swear, it’s like being handed a delicious, mysterious appetizer that suddenly fills in all the gaps you didn’t even realize were there, without spoiling a single thing about what happens after the founding of Kelvadan or the upcoming book in the Ballan Desert series.
And the parallels. Ohhh, the parallels. Erix and Keera fans, hold onto your hats, because you are going to see echoes of these two all over Kelvar and Anyx. I was side-eyeing this novella the whole time, whispering to myself, “Hmm, is this Keera’s oasis? Could it actually be the same oasis?” The fact that the story drops little hints like that makes me feel like I’m some kind of a detective piecing together a historical puzzle, and I love it.
Now, let’s get real for a second and talk about the spice. Ohhhh, the spice. I am here for consensual romance and all the tension in the world, but if I see one more “delicate flower” or “nectar” metaphor describing her… downstairs… I might actually combust. I physically cringed. I might have audibly groaned. Like, I get it, writers, you’re trying to be sensual and poetic—but sweet baby Jesus... And yet… somehow, the story is still so fun that I can forgive the moments of botanical embarrassment. I still ended up smiling like a loon at their chemistry, even as I side-eyed the prose like, “Are you serious right now?”
And overall? I can’t even. I am obsessed. It filled in their story so nicely, it made me feel like I’ve been let in on a secret handshake, it gave me nostalgia for the main series while also expanding the lore in ways I didn’t know I needed!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to S.C. Grayson for the e-ARC of this novella. As a prequel to The Ballan Desert Trilogy, this was my first introduction to Grayson’s writing, and I am officially hooked. It serves as a perfect "appetizer" for the high-stakes world she has built.
While this is a fast-paced novella, the world-building feels rich. Grayson treats the desert itself as a quiet, sentient character—it’s a living, breathing force that shapes the culture and survival of the clans. I found myself particularly fascinated by the clan politics; there is a sense of ancient history and simmering tension that makes you realize this novella is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s a refreshing departure from standard fantasy settings, offering a unique landscape that feels both beautiful and perilous.
The magic system stands out as one of the most creative elements I’ve seen in the Romantasy space recently. It feels grounded in the environment rather than just "sparkles and light."
As for our leads, their relationship is a standout. Even though there are explicit 18+ spicy scenes, the connection between the two characters maintains a sense of sweetness and innocence. They feel like two people genuinely trying to find a soft place to land in a harsh world. Their chemistry is effortless, making the "Healer" and "Warlord" archetypes feel fresh and human.
🍵Final Thoughts
I don’t want to give away spoilers, but if you are looking for an entry point into a new series with high-stakes magic, complex political intrigue, and characters you’ll instantly root for, this is it. It’s a light, enjoyable read that leaves you craving the full trilogy. I’ll definitely be diving into the rest of the Ballan Desert world!
While this is a fast-paced novella, the world-building feels rich. Grayson treats the desert itself as a quiet, sentient character—it’s a living, breathing force that shapes the culture and survival of the clans. I found myself particularly fascinated by the clan politics; there is a sense of ancient history and simmering tension that makes you realize this novella is just the tip of the iceberg. It’s a refreshing departure from standard fantasy settings, offering a unique landscape that feels both beautiful and perilous.
The magic system stands out as one of the most creative elements I’ve seen in the Romantasy space recently. It feels grounded in the environment rather than just "sparkles and light."
As for our leads, their relationship is a standout. Even though there are explicit 18+ spicy scenes, the connection between the two characters maintains a sense of sweetness and innocence. They feel like two people genuinely trying to find a soft place to land in a harsh world. Their chemistry is effortless, making the "Healer" and "Warlord" archetypes feel fresh and human.
🍵Final Thoughts
I don’t want to give away spoilers, but if you are looking for an entry point into a new series with high-stakes magic, complex political intrigue, and characters you’ll instantly root for, this is it. It’s a light, enjoyable read that leaves you craving the full trilogy. I’ll definitely be diving into the rest of the Ballan Desert world!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3 ★★★☆☆
ENG
Thanks to Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. and S.C. Grayson for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a nice read, and while I agree that it can be read as a stand alone, I'm sure it is way more worth to read after getting into the main story. For a 100 page novella, I think it had the right amount of world-building and romance, which is sometimes very hard to balance. It is definitely insta-love/insta-lust, but for this kind of format it is pretty much expected that the main characters won't have as much development. For the spice/romance, some scenes were fine while others I found hard to believe, so that's probably why I can't give it more than 3 stars.
If you're a fan of forced proximity, touch her and die, and a desert setting piques your interest, this is for you.
ESP
Gracias a Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. y S.C. Grayson por proporcionarme una copia digital anticipada a cambio de una reseña sincera.
Ha sido una buena lectura y, aunque estoy de acuerdo en que se puede leer de forma independiente, estoy segura de que vale mucho más la pena leerla después de adentrarse en la historia principal. Para ser una novela corta de 100 páginas, creo que tiene la cantidad justa de construcción del mundo y romance, algo que a veces es muy difícil de equilibrar. Sin duda, se trata de insta-love/insta-lust, pero en este tipo de formato es de esperar que los personajes principales no tengan tanto desarrollo. En cuanto al spice y el romance, algunas escenas estaban bien, mientras que otras me parecieron poco creíbles, por lo que seguramente por eso no le pueda dar más de 3 estrellas.
Si te gusta la proximidad forzada, el "tócala y muere" y te interesa el desierto como escenario, este es tu libro!
ENG
Thanks to Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. and S.C. Grayson for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a nice read, and while I agree that it can be read as a stand alone, I'm sure it is way more worth to read after getting into the main story. For a 100 page novella, I think it had the right amount of world-building and romance, which is sometimes very hard to balance. It is definitely insta-love/insta-lust, but for this kind of format it is pretty much expected that the main characters won't have as much development. For the spice/romance, some scenes were fine while others I found hard to believe, so that's probably why I can't give it more than 3 stars.
If you're a fan of forced proximity, touch her and die, and a desert setting piques your interest, this is for you.
ESP
Gracias a Netgalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op. y S.C. Grayson por proporcionarme una copia digital anticipada a cambio de una reseña sincera.
Ha sido una buena lectura y, aunque estoy de acuerdo en que se puede leer de forma independiente, estoy segura de que vale mucho más la pena leerla después de adentrarse en la historia principal. Para ser una novela corta de 100 páginas, creo que tiene la cantidad justa de construcción del mundo y romance, algo que a veces es muy difícil de equilibrar. Sin duda, se trata de insta-love/insta-lust, pero en este tipo de formato es de esperar que los personajes principales no tengan tanto desarrollo. En cuanto al spice y el romance, algunas escenas estaban bien, mientras que otras me parecieron poco creíbles, por lo que seguramente por eso no le pueda dar más de 3 estrellas.
Si te gusta la proximidad forzada, el "tócala y muere" y te interesa el desierto como escenario, este es tu libro!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
8.5 out of 10
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘏𝘦’𝘴 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘒𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘢𝘱 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘎𝘦𝘵 𝘓𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘥
⏳ Enemies to Lovers
⏳ Warlord x Healer
⏳ He’s a General // She’s a Rival Clan’s Princess
⏳ Desert
⏳ Forced Proximity
⏳ Magical Realm
⏳ Warring Tribes
⏳ Touch Her and Die
⏳ Prequel Novella
⏳ One Horse
⏳ He Falls First
⏳ Dual POV
Okay I’m really starting off 2026 strong here. I don’t know what I did to the ARC gods but I’ve been blessed with my second solid read in a row 🫶 Maybe I’ve been stuck in the pattern of reading the same types of books but the whole desert, nomadic tribe thing in “The Healer and the Warlord” made this one feel really fresh and special. It’s a standalone(ish) prequel novella sitting at just a little over 100 pages so I devoured it within a day.
I also really liked the magic element - like it’s there, it’s cool, but it’s not overly complicated. Simple but classy ✓ Both characters are extremely powerful in their own right and honestly they’re just really cute together. I diggity. Will be looking forward to reading the actual “The Ballan Desert” series! Not sure if it’s the same characters or if their love story is just part of the world building but either way can’t wait to dive back into this realm.
Thank you to S.C. Grayson for the opportunity to be a part of the ARC team! ♥️ “The Healer and the Warlord” comes out January 20th 🗓️
"Kidnapping her was the easy part. Letting her go might destroy him. Steamy, bingeable, and filled with legendary magic, ‘The Healer and the Warlord’ by S.C. Grayson is a fantasy romance with forced proximity, banter, and a love that can move mountains.”
Rated MA for Violence and Spice ⚔️🌶️🌶️🌶️
8.5 out of 10
𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘏𝘦’𝘴 𝘈𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘒𝘪𝘥𝘯𝘢𝘱 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘎𝘦𝘵 𝘓𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘪𝘯 𝘓𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘢𝘥
⏳ Enemies to Lovers
⏳ Warlord x Healer
⏳ He’s a General // She’s a Rival Clan’s Princess
⏳ Desert
⏳ Forced Proximity
⏳ Magical Realm
⏳ Warring Tribes
⏳ Touch Her and Die
⏳ Prequel Novella
⏳ One Horse
⏳ He Falls First
⏳ Dual POV
Okay I’m really starting off 2026 strong here. I don’t know what I did to the ARC gods but I’ve been blessed with my second solid read in a row 🫶 Maybe I’ve been stuck in the pattern of reading the same types of books but the whole desert, nomadic tribe thing in “The Healer and the Warlord” made this one feel really fresh and special. It’s a standalone(ish) prequel novella sitting at just a little over 100 pages so I devoured it within a day.
I also really liked the magic element - like it’s there, it’s cool, but it’s not overly complicated. Simple but classy ✓ Both characters are extremely powerful in their own right and honestly they’re just really cute together. I diggity. Will be looking forward to reading the actual “The Ballan Desert” series! Not sure if it’s the same characters or if their love story is just part of the world building but either way can’t wait to dive back into this realm.
Thank you to S.C. Grayson for the opportunity to be a part of the ARC team! ♥️ “The Healer and the Warlord” comes out January 20th 🗓️
"Kidnapping her was the easy part. Letting her go might destroy him. Steamy, bingeable, and filled with legendary magic, ‘The Healer and the Warlord’ by S.C. Grayson is a fantasy romance with forced proximity, banter, and a love that can move mountains.”
Rated MA for Violence and Spice ⚔️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: 5/5
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
I hadn’t yet started The Ballan Desert series, but after seeing a fellow bookstagrammer share their love for it, I knew I needed to give it a try. Starting with this prequel novella was the perfect introduction to the world. From page one, it pulled me in and didn’t let go until the very end. Honestly, if this had been my last ARC of the month, I would have immediately continued on with the series without hesitation.
Despite being a novella, this story is rich with depth. The characters are well developed and emotionally engaging, which is especially impressive given the 124-page length. The pacing is fast yet steady, keeping the story moving without feeling rushed. I really enjoyed learning about the characters’ magic, and I can’t wait to dive into the other books to learn more about the magic system.
Kelvar and Alyx were fantastic characters, both brave, strong, and determined. The love they share is powerful and beautifully portrayed. Their journey from enemies to lovers felt natural and satisfying, evolving from attraction into something deeper and more meaningful. Kelvar’s devotion to Alyx was especially memorable; his unapologetic declaration of love for his wife was a standout moment that truly captured the heart of their relationship.
As a prequel, this novella succeeds on every level. It’s an ideal entry point for readers new to the series and a rewarding glimpse into the origins of the world for those already familiar with it. It left me fully invested and excited to continue exploring everything this series has to offer.
I want to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
I received an eARC for my honest opinion.
I hadn’t yet started The Ballan Desert series, but after seeing a fellow bookstagrammer share their love for it, I knew I needed to give it a try. Starting with this prequel novella was the perfect introduction to the world. From page one, it pulled me in and didn’t let go until the very end. Honestly, if this had been my last ARC of the month, I would have immediately continued on with the series without hesitation.
Despite being a novella, this story is rich with depth. The characters are well developed and emotionally engaging, which is especially impressive given the 124-page length. The pacing is fast yet steady, keeping the story moving without feeling rushed. I really enjoyed learning about the characters’ magic, and I can’t wait to dive into the other books to learn more about the magic system.
Kelvar and Alyx were fantastic characters, both brave, strong, and determined. The love they share is powerful and beautifully portrayed. Their journey from enemies to lovers felt natural and satisfying, evolving from attraction into something deeper and more meaningful. Kelvar’s devotion to Alyx was especially memorable; his unapologetic declaration of love for his wife was a standout moment that truly captured the heart of their relationship.
As a prequel, this novella succeeds on every level. It’s an ideal entry point for readers new to the series and a rewarding glimpse into the origins of the world for those already familiar with it. It left me fully invested and excited to continue exploring everything this series has to offer.
I want to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
January 7, 2026
ARC Review: 4.5⭐️
“If my power was the searing, unforgiving intensity of the desert sun, then hers was the calm majesty of the velvety night sky, lit with endless stars on a moonless night.”
I have read Blood of the Sands (and I can’t wait to read Crown of the Dunes) so I was thrilled to be able to read this novella. The Healer and the Warlord serves as a prequel to the series, although it can be read as a standalone and gives you a brief introduction and a taste of the incredible world of the Ballen Desert!
The story starts out fast paced and immediately had me hooked. Our FMC Alyx finds herself kidnapped at the hands of our MMC Kelvar, and we get to see their dynamic evolve throughout their journey together through the desert. Kelvar is (just like all our favorite book boyfriends) down bad for Alyx and I was eating it up! I absolutely loved that Alyx was an FMC who is soft and kind and not the typical “fighter” fmc that we so often see, but she is recognized by the MMC as being strong.
“But that kind of beauty takes incredible strength. To push back against the conditions that make so much of the desert’s flora tough and brittle and choose to be soft and kind.”
This novella is beautifully written! It is descriptive, easy to read, and the story flows well. The ending was perfect, sweet, and satisfying! A big thank you to S.C. Grayson and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read an ARC of this novella! I absolutely LOVE her writing and she is incredibly talented!
✨captive/kidnapper
🗡️tending to wounds
✨touch her and ☠️
🗡️forbidden love
✨soft fmc
🗡️he falls first
✨forced proximity
🗡️magical desert setting
“If my power was the searing, unforgiving intensity of the desert sun, then hers was the calm majesty of the velvety night sky, lit with endless stars on a moonless night.”
I have read Blood of the Sands (and I can’t wait to read Crown of the Dunes) so I was thrilled to be able to read this novella. The Healer and the Warlord serves as a prequel to the series, although it can be read as a standalone and gives you a brief introduction and a taste of the incredible world of the Ballen Desert!
The story starts out fast paced and immediately had me hooked. Our FMC Alyx finds herself kidnapped at the hands of our MMC Kelvar, and we get to see their dynamic evolve throughout their journey together through the desert. Kelvar is (just like all our favorite book boyfriends) down bad for Alyx and I was eating it up! I absolutely loved that Alyx was an FMC who is soft and kind and not the typical “fighter” fmc that we so often see, but she is recognized by the MMC as being strong.
“But that kind of beauty takes incredible strength. To push back against the conditions that make so much of the desert’s flora tough and brittle and choose to be soft and kind.”
This novella is beautifully written! It is descriptive, easy to read, and the story flows well. The ending was perfect, sweet, and satisfying! A big thank you to S.C. Grayson and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for allowing me to read an ARC of this novella! I absolutely LOVE her writing and she is incredibly talented!
✨captive/kidnapper
🗡️tending to wounds
✨touch her and ☠️
🗡️forbidden love
✨soft fmc
🗡️he falls first
✨forced proximity
🗡️magical desert setting
January 6, 2026
✨The Healer and the Warlord✨
This was such a great introduction to Grayson’s world within the Ballan Desert! It was short, steamy, and so sweet. THATW is written as both a prequel to the Ballan Desert series but also stands strongly as a precious standalone novella at about 100 pages.
We follow a dual POV from our Healer, Alyx, and Warlord, Kelvar. While Kelvar focuses on the object of his mission (kidnapping a rival clan’s daughter), the last thing he expects is to find a woman whose very being speaks to him. And despite him having always been loyal and dependable for his clan’s Lord, Kelvar finds that he may have finally found something worth fighting for. Meanwhile, Alyx is surprised to find freedom within being stolen from her tent. After having been sheltered her whole life for her magic, she finally gets to experience the open skies, romance, adventure, and to fight for herself. And when these two finally give in to the tension, it’s 👩🍳💋.
This book was such a sweet slice of romance and fantasy. It created a need in me to read more of Grayson’s series and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. I’m excited to step further into this world and discover how this prequel has laid a foundation for what’s to come.
Tropes you may find in THATW are forced proximity, captor x captive, medium-high spice (3 scenes), unique desert magic, wound tending, one horse, one robe 🤭, kidnapping, cinnamon roll storm daddy, soft FMC, banter, and a HEA.
Thank you, Grayson, for this gifted arc! I cannot wait to read more of your work.
This was such a great introduction to Grayson’s world within the Ballan Desert! It was short, steamy, and so sweet. THATW is written as both a prequel to the Ballan Desert series but also stands strongly as a precious standalone novella at about 100 pages.
We follow a dual POV from our Healer, Alyx, and Warlord, Kelvar. While Kelvar focuses on the object of his mission (kidnapping a rival clan’s daughter), the last thing he expects is to find a woman whose very being speaks to him. And despite him having always been loyal and dependable for his clan’s Lord, Kelvar finds that he may have finally found something worth fighting for. Meanwhile, Alyx is surprised to find freedom within being stolen from her tent. After having been sheltered her whole life for her magic, she finally gets to experience the open skies, romance, adventure, and to fight for herself. And when these two finally give in to the tension, it’s 👩🍳💋.
This book was such a sweet slice of romance and fantasy. It created a need in me to read more of Grayson’s series and I thoroughly enjoyed her writing style. I’m excited to step further into this world and discover how this prequel has laid a foundation for what’s to come.
Tropes you may find in THATW are forced proximity, captor x captive, medium-high spice (3 scenes), unique desert magic, wound tending, one horse, one robe 🤭, kidnapping, cinnamon roll storm daddy, soft FMC, banter, and a HEA.
Thank you, Grayson, for this gifted arc! I cannot wait to read more of your work.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, S.C. Grayson and the Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this ARC.
The Healer and the Warlord gets 3,5 ⭐️s from me
I want to start by saying that I haven’t read the previous books in The Ballan Desert series, but after reading this novella I will be checking them out.
In The Healer and the Warlord we follow Alyx and Kelvar. Alyx is a healer who has been protected and kept away from the world her entire life. Kelvar on the other hand is a warlord who is loyal to his clan, he takes Alyx captive, planning to use her as leverage against her father the leader of her clan. As they travel together through the desert their relationship slowly grows into something neither of them expected.
The Ballan Desert is really something, it feels like it is alive, and plays a big part in the story that influences both the plot and the characters. The magic system in the story is also pretty cool, especially how Alyx’s and Kelvar’s magic reacts to each other. That being said the story doesn’t really explain how their magic works together which leaves for questions.
The pacing felt a bit fast at times but that’s understandable since this is a shorter story. The romance also happens very fast, insta-love is a big part of the story, but the banter and chemistry between the characters made it a fun read.
The Healer and the Warlord is perfect for those who like the tropes:
🔥 Forced proximity
🐎 One horse
🔪 Knife to throat scene
🤭 Banter
❣️ And insta-love
💀 Touch her and die
The Healer and the Warlord gets 3,5 ⭐️s from me
I want to start by saying that I haven’t read the previous books in The Ballan Desert series, but after reading this novella I will be checking them out.
In The Healer and the Warlord we follow Alyx and Kelvar. Alyx is a healer who has been protected and kept away from the world her entire life. Kelvar on the other hand is a warlord who is loyal to his clan, he takes Alyx captive, planning to use her as leverage against her father the leader of her clan. As they travel together through the desert their relationship slowly grows into something neither of them expected.
The Ballan Desert is really something, it feels like it is alive, and plays a big part in the story that influences both the plot and the characters. The magic system in the story is also pretty cool, especially how Alyx’s and Kelvar’s magic reacts to each other. That being said the story doesn’t really explain how their magic works together which leaves for questions.
The pacing felt a bit fast at times but that’s understandable since this is a shorter story. The romance also happens very fast, insta-love is a big part of the story, but the banter and chemistry between the characters made it a fun read.
The Healer and the Warlord is perfect for those who like the tropes:
🔥 Forced proximity
🐎 One horse
🔪 Knife to throat scene
🤭 Banter
❣️ And insta-love
💀 Touch her and die
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