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The Thorned Sigil #1
A Throne in Bloom
When Elle Hawthorne inherits her grandmother's Victorian estate, she doesn't expect to fall through a crack in reality.
Trapped in dying Wynmire, Elle bears the Root-marks her grandmother once carried—golden vines spreading across her skin with uncontrollable power. Every faction wants to use her to save or dominate the realm.
Her only protection: Kaelren, the failed prince whose corrupted body bears the scars of trying to claim her power. As Elle's marks spread and her humanity dissolves, she must choose: become destiny's weapon, or forge her own path, even if it costs everything.
Dark romantic fantasy where Alice in Wonderland meets The Cruel Prince.
Trapped in dying Wynmire, Elle bears the Root-marks her grandmother once carried—golden vines spreading across her skin with uncontrollable power. Every faction wants to use her to save or dominate the realm.
Her only protection: Kaelren, the failed prince whose corrupted body bears the scars of trying to claim her power. As Elle's marks spread and her humanity dissolves, she must choose: become destiny's weapon, or forge her own path, even if it costs everything.
Dark romantic fantasy where Alice in Wonderland meets The Cruel Prince.
422 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2026
31 people are currently reading
2221 people want to read
About the author
J.K. Ross
1 book69 followersJ.K. Ross is an avid reader and unapologetic book lover with a deep passion for fantasy worlds and storytelling. When she’s not writing, she’s chasing wanderlust—having explored over ten countries in recent years, always in search of places that feel plucked from a storybook. Europe, with its fairytale charm, continues to inspire her imagination—especially Ireland, which she swears is a real-life fairy garden.
She lives in Arkansas with her husband and two children, where her coworkers include a very professional Goldendoodle named Ranger and a less-than-professional Maine Coon known as Grand Duchess Freya. Together, they make sure every writing session is filled with magic, mayhem, and maybe a bit of mischief.
She lives in Arkansas with her husband and two children, where her coworkers include a very professional Goldendoodle named Ranger and a less-than-professional Maine Coon known as Grand Duchess Freya. Together, they make sure every writing session is filled with magic, mayhem, and maybe a bit of mischief.
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December 11, 2025Thank you in advance to all who have taken the time to read A Throne in Bloom. It means more than you know, and all my love goes out to each and every one of you! I hope you have enjoyed Wynmire and all the magic it has to offer, including Elle, Kaelren, and the whole crew! Much love - J.K. Ross
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December 29, 2025Cozy fantasy, Thumbelina vibes, and a long journey.
chosen one
touch her and die
"Fck it"
Found family
chosen one
touch her and die
"Fck it"
Found family
November 27, 2025
I got an incredible chance to read this as an ARC reader, so all opinions and thoughts on this review is my own. I came across this book via TikTok so I was intrigued first by the title and description. However, as soon as I came across the side character who helps the FMC & MMC along the way I was IMMEDIATELY hooked! I know FMC & MMC are important but when an author has a side character who is 1. Sarcastic, 2. Professional Chaos Enabler, 3. Age: Eternal & Fabulous, 4. Runs on drama & Nectar & 5. MOTTO: If it sparkles or explodes, I approve! LIKE OMG this is going to be just absolutely great to read to see how the side character helps out. lol.
When you start reading, I was immediately hooked on the fact that there is an ARKANSAS reference in the story because of course that's very relevant to the state I live in. Also, the FMC is definitely true to her character traits that the author has created, chooses her own fate but still chooses to love over anything else. The story doesn't start slow at first, just a little bit but within a chapter it picks up DRASTICALLY and throws you in the story. As the FMC & MMC go on their adventures you see how much they really learn to care for one another and there is TRULY slow burn obsession with those two. Once a grumpy and selfish type MMC is changed and would definitely burn the world and do everything, yet ANYTHING to keep ELLE safe. I couldn't put this book down and finished it in 2 days it was incredibly good.
Here are some quotes I just laughed and enjoyed reading (mostly Peeble);
-"Oh, I went insane centuries ago. It's quite liberating once you get used to it"-Peeble
-"Thanks for the psychoanalysis, Dr Brooding"-Elle
-"Back in Arkansas, the worst danger was mosquito bites and the occasional tornado warning. Here, even the air wants to kill me"-Elle (this was just too funny and QUITE accurate)
-"I'm a beetle. Terrible puns are my only joy". -Peeble
-"That's the spirit!" "Embrace the inevitable doom with style"-Peeble
-This is definitely going to end badly. Which means it'll be entertaining. Carry on!"-Peeble
-"Just give me one more minute where you're mine and I'm yours and the world can burn for all I care"-Kaelren
-"I'll wait, however long it takes."-Kaelren
Truly one of a kind book and even after sixteen times of meeting again over and over again they still managed to find themselves but, in the end, I was emotionally not ready for the roller coaster ride for Elle and Kaelren. I will be extremely sad if book 2 isn't made because I really want to read the rest of the story especially after that cliffhanger that J. K Ross wrote.
When you start reading, I was immediately hooked on the fact that there is an ARKANSAS reference in the story because of course that's very relevant to the state I live in. Also, the FMC is definitely true to her character traits that the author has created, chooses her own fate but still chooses to love over anything else. The story doesn't start slow at first, just a little bit but within a chapter it picks up DRASTICALLY and throws you in the story. As the FMC & MMC go on their adventures you see how much they really learn to care for one another and there is TRULY slow burn obsession with those two. Once a grumpy and selfish type MMC is changed and would definitely burn the world and do everything, yet ANYTHING to keep ELLE safe. I couldn't put this book down and finished it in 2 days it was incredibly good.
Here are some quotes I just laughed and enjoyed reading (mostly Peeble);
-"Oh, I went insane centuries ago. It's quite liberating once you get used to it"-Peeble
-"Thanks for the psychoanalysis, Dr Brooding"-Elle
-"Back in Arkansas, the worst danger was mosquito bites and the occasional tornado warning. Here, even the air wants to kill me"-Elle (this was just too funny and QUITE accurate)
-"I'm a beetle. Terrible puns are my only joy". -Peeble
-"That's the spirit!" "Embrace the inevitable doom with style"-Peeble
-This is definitely going to end badly. Which means it'll be entertaining. Carry on!"-Peeble
-"Just give me one more minute where you're mine and I'm yours and the world can burn for all I care"-Kaelren
-"I'll wait, however long it takes."-Kaelren
Truly one of a kind book and even after sixteen times of meeting again over and over again they still managed to find themselves but, in the end, I was emotionally not ready for the roller coaster ride for Elle and Kaelren. I will be extremely sad if book 2 isn't made because I really want to read the rest of the story especially after that cliffhanger that J. K Ross wrote.
November 22, 2025
This is such a cute book cover design! The word building, pacing and plot flow beautifully the entire book! Get ready to cozy up and read the book in one sitting (or two if need be!)
Elle has inherited her Grandma Jo's house. Her grandma's garden was withered, but Elle could swear the elm tree that had always been a mystery, was more than just a tree. She started to believe the house and garden were happy she was there.
Elle finds out she has inherited power through her bloodline. She was born between two worlds. Kaelren is a failed prince who promised Jo he would protect anything that went through the door to his realm. Elle will either save the realm or destroy it. She wasn't meant to have the marks of magic, so she has to learn what to do with them.
Don't all FMCs deserve a beetle who talks to them? Elle has a cosmic beetle buddy, Peeble who helps her and brings comedic relief, although the whole book is full of banter! Peeble is hilarious! The camaraderie makes you want to jump into the story and be included!
I appreciate how this realm is different from realms we typically read about in other books. It's refreshing to see new and creative ideas in stories. J.K.'s vivid imagination takes us to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory as a romantasy book, where everything comes to life and we are swept away into their realm and don't want to leave! Ever!
"Something's always coming. The question is whether we're ready when it arrives." "... Sometimes you have to bleed to grow stronger." I love how characters in books really make you think about things in your own life.
"...I finally understood that nothing grows without being tended. Not plants. Not love. Not even yourself." "You can't control something that refuses to fit inside your definitions." You need to take care of yourself in order to grow.
"Sometimes you have to become the monster to save what you love."
"My anchor. My lighthouse."
"Find me in the spaces between seconds. I'll be in all the moments we should have had."
This book is filled with remarkable quotes that you need to read to appreciate yourself. It is an enchanting and immsersive experience, captivating from start to finish!
Wow! There are unexpected twists and turns that took me by surprise!! I don't want to spoil anything, so make sure to put this on your TBR! Ahhhhh! This book is a stunning read and brought me joy. The ending leaves me wanting to read book 2 right now to see what happens next! I loved it and I highly recommend!
Thank you J.K. Ross and BookFunnel for the eArc. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
A Throne in Bloom
J.K. Ross
Elle has inherited her Grandma Jo's house. Her grandma's garden was withered, but Elle could swear the elm tree that had always been a mystery, was more than just a tree. She started to believe the house and garden were happy she was there.
Elle finds out she has inherited power through her bloodline. She was born between two worlds. Kaelren is a failed prince who promised Jo he would protect anything that went through the door to his realm. Elle will either save the realm or destroy it. She wasn't meant to have the marks of magic, so she has to learn what to do with them.
Don't all FMCs deserve a beetle who talks to them? Elle has a cosmic beetle buddy, Peeble who helps her and brings comedic relief, although the whole book is full of banter! Peeble is hilarious! The camaraderie makes you want to jump into the story and be included!
I appreciate how this realm is different from realms we typically read about in other books. It's refreshing to see new and creative ideas in stories. J.K.'s vivid imagination takes us to Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory as a romantasy book, where everything comes to life and we are swept away into their realm and don't want to leave! Ever!
"Something's always coming. The question is whether we're ready when it arrives." "... Sometimes you have to bleed to grow stronger." I love how characters in books really make you think about things in your own life.
"...I finally understood that nothing grows without being tended. Not plants. Not love. Not even yourself." "You can't control something that refuses to fit inside your definitions." You need to take care of yourself in order to grow.
"Sometimes you have to become the monster to save what you love."
"My anchor. My lighthouse."
"Find me in the spaces between seconds. I'll be in all the moments we should have had."
This book is filled with remarkable quotes that you need to read to appreciate yourself. It is an enchanting and immsersive experience, captivating from start to finish!
Wow! There are unexpected twists and turns that took me by surprise!! I don't want to spoil anything, so make sure to put this on your TBR! Ahhhhh! This book is a stunning read and brought me joy. The ending leaves me wanting to read book 2 right now to see what happens next! I loved it and I highly recommend!
Thank you J.K. Ross and BookFunnel for the eArc. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
A Throne in Bloom
J.K. Ross
December 7, 2025
I have to say, I didn't end up finishing this one as just couldn't get into it, so I can't give it a proper star rating. The writing and dialogue was repetitive and some things just didn't make sense no matter how far I read. BUT that doesn't mean its not for others! It is fast paced (almost too fast paced imo, could use SOME filler and descriptor) with a morally grey MMC 🤗💕
December 12, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book.
This desperately needed more editing. The writing has too many redundancies. This version of the book had duplicated blocks of paragraphs and even a note to an early reader or editor. Beyond that, the dialogue and vocabulary differed from redundancies as well. There were a few places that it felt like information come from nowhere, but was presented in a way that I felt like I should have known it.
An interesting idea for the magic and world, but I won’t be looking for book 2.
This desperately needed more editing. The writing has too many redundancies. This version of the book had duplicated blocks of paragraphs and even a note to an early reader or editor. Beyond that, the dialogue and vocabulary differed from redundancies as well. There were a few places that it felt like information come from nowhere, but was presented in a way that I felt like I should have known it.
An interesting idea for the magic and world, but I won’t be looking for book 2.
December 14, 2025
✨ARC Review ✨
“Whatever you become, wherever you end up, I’ll find you. And if you can’t find your way back, I’ll come looking. I’ll tear apart every moment between us until I find you.”
I did enjoy A Throne in Bloom. I want a second book right now because why did you do that to me at the end?! 😔
If you enjoy slower paced books and like to take your time while reading, you’ll probably do great with this book! If you like a bit of a faster paced story, like I do, then it might be a bit of a struggle to get through, but trust me, it’s worth it!
If you love funny and sarcastic side characters, then prepare to meet Peeble! I loved Peeble 😂 . For example, here’s a Peeble quote: “Sure. And I'm not devastatingly gorgeous for an insect. We're both liars, let's move on.”
I loved the development in Elle’s and Kaelren’s relationship. Kaelren went from the no-bullshit, brooding MMC to a man ready to burn down the world for her. Elle sacrificed everything for him. And it is spicy 🌶️, so be prepared! 🫣
“‘I’ve lived hundreds of years, and I have never—‘ He pressed his forehead to mine, breathing hard. ‘I have never felt like this. Never wanted someone the way I want you. It’s not the bond, it’s not the prophecy, it’s not anything except you.’”
“Whatever you become, wherever you end up, I’ll find you. And if you can’t find your way back, I’ll come looking. I’ll tear apart every moment between us until I find you.”
I did enjoy A Throne in Bloom. I want a second book right now because why did you do that to me at the end?! 😔
If you enjoy slower paced books and like to take your time while reading, you’ll probably do great with this book! If you like a bit of a faster paced story, like I do, then it might be a bit of a struggle to get through, but trust me, it’s worth it!
If you love funny and sarcastic side characters, then prepare to meet Peeble! I loved Peeble 😂 . For example, here’s a Peeble quote: “Sure. And I'm not devastatingly gorgeous for an insect. We're both liars, let's move on.”
I loved the development in Elle’s and Kaelren’s relationship. Kaelren went from the no-bullshit, brooding MMC to a man ready to burn down the world for her. Elle sacrificed everything for him. And it is spicy 🌶️, so be prepared! 🫣
“‘I’ve lived hundreds of years, and I have never—‘ He pressed his forehead to mine, breathing hard. ‘I have never felt like this. Never wanted someone the way I want you. It’s not the bond, it’s not the prophecy, it’s not anything except you.’”
November 27, 2025
Thank you J.K. Ross for the opportunity to read this book!
From the very first chapter, this story pulled me in with its fresh world-building, descriptive writing and unique magic system. The book opens with Elle at her grandmother’s house, navigating heartbreak, loss, and major life changes—only to be swept into an entirely new realm filled with unfamiliar faces and one delightfully chaotic talking beetle named Peeble.
Wynmire is a vivid, imaginative world, and watching Elle discover her abilities and her connection to her grandmother’s past was one of my favorite parts. The story balances mystery, magic, and character growth “Well, that was almost sincere at the end there. Character growth, - Peeble, while introducing a wonderfully broody love interest “It’s an art form with him. Proffessional-level brooding, Sometimes I think he practices in the mirror.” -Eltrien, who adds just the right amount of tension.
This book has everything I love in a fantasy romance: an intriguing magic system, memorable characters (Peeble absolutely steals scenes), slow-building romance, and plenty of adventure. I’m already excited for the second book coming next year.
From the very first chapter, this story pulled me in with its fresh world-building, descriptive writing and unique magic system. The book opens with Elle at her grandmother’s house, navigating heartbreak, loss, and major life changes—only to be swept into an entirely new realm filled with unfamiliar faces and one delightfully chaotic talking beetle named Peeble.
Wynmire is a vivid, imaginative world, and watching Elle discover her abilities and her connection to her grandmother’s past was one of my favorite parts. The story balances mystery, magic, and character growth “Well, that was almost sincere at the end there. Character growth, - Peeble, while introducing a wonderfully broody love interest “It’s an art form with him. Proffessional-level brooding, Sometimes I think he practices in the mirror.” -Eltrien, who adds just the right amount of tension.
This book has everything I love in a fantasy romance: an intriguing magic system, memorable characters (Peeble absolutely steals scenes), slow-building romance, and plenty of adventure. I’m already excited for the second book coming next year.
January 1, 2026
A Throne in Bloom didn’t hit me all at once—it slowly settled into my chest and stayed there. This is the kind of story that grows quietly, letting the characters take root before you realize how much you care about them.
What stood out most to me was the emotion woven through every choice and moment of doubt. The characters don’t feel invincible or perfectly confident—they feel real. Their fears, hopes, and internal battles made their journey feel earned, and I found myself emotionally invested in ways I didn’t expect.
The story isn’t about rushing to the crown or the victory—it’s about becoming. About learning who you are when the weight of responsibility, love, and sacrifice all collide. There were moments that felt tender, moments that hurt, and moments that reminded me why I love fantasy that takes its time.
By the end, I wasn’t just turning the last page—I was sitting with everything the story made me feel. This book lingers, and those are the ones that matter most to me.
What stood out most to me was the emotion woven through every choice and moment of doubt. The characters don’t feel invincible or perfectly confident—they feel real. Their fears, hopes, and internal battles made their journey feel earned, and I found myself emotionally invested in ways I didn’t expect.
The story isn’t about rushing to the crown or the victory—it’s about becoming. About learning who you are when the weight of responsibility, love, and sacrifice all collide. There were moments that felt tender, moments that hurt, and moments that reminded me why I love fantasy that takes its time.
By the end, I wasn’t just turning the last page—I was sitting with everything the story made me feel. This book lingers, and those are the ones that matter most to me.
November 25, 2025
A Throne in Bloom was a wild, unpredictable, confusing at times ride but fun.
Our FMC is thrust into a world she knows nothing about so the first 25-30% is really getting the reader semi looped in to what is happening. It’s a lot of story and world building right away, I found myself getting info overloaded but was able to get up to speed. The world itself if very interactive and I liked the idea that everything is alive.
The FMC is very resilient and I liked that she wasn’t ever a damsel in distress. Plus she has a cute little talking beetle sidekick.
The FMC is your dark and brooding type. Some of his dialogue with the FMC was repetitive which grated on me a bit. Their relationship does develop and I found I liked them more in the end.
Great side characters, I really enjoyed the glimpses into their backstory and their parts of the book a lot. And Kevin, I loved Kevin.
Lots of twists towards the ending, so I’ll be interested to see what book 2 holds. Thank you for the author for the ARC!
November 29, 2025
Where do I even begin! First off, the characters are easily relatable. FMC isn’t afraid to say what on her mind even when going through the worst things imaginable. The MMC is a hard headed male who slowly opens up to FMC and falls head over heels- he won’t just kill for her but destroy everything in his path to protect her… literally 🥵
Side characters just add to this story! Bryx had me laughing and eager for more!
The details within the story, the beginning with the Dr Pepper😅- going through the different realms- the spice scenes- even action scenes- every single page had details that made you feel like you were in the story!
This is a slow burn but definitely worth the burn 🔥 🥵
Thank you J.K. Ross for the opportunity to be one of your arc readers!
Side characters just add to this story! Bryx had me laughing and eager for more!
The details within the story, the beginning with the Dr Pepper😅- going through the different realms- the spice scenes- even action scenes- every single page had details that made you feel like you were in the story!
This is a slow burn but definitely worth the burn 🔥 🥵
Thank you J.K. Ross for the opportunity to be one of your arc readers!
December 31, 2025
A magically spicy adventure! There’s something about this novel that made me think of the movie Strange Magic and Fern Gully when I first started reading it - a world of strange creatures, fairies, and magic. But the world in A Throne in Bloom is more magical and the evil more sinister. We follow the FMC Elle as she falls into this other realm where she finds out secrets that her grandmother and mother kept from her, secrets about who their family is and their role in this other realm. As Elle journeys through this other realm with a ragtag group of rebels led by the failed prince Kaelren, she finds a new family to embrace, a new identity to grow into, and a new understanding of love. With a grumpy x sunshine trope that will evolve into a fated bond that shows a love in every lifetime, timeline, and in-between, the love story in this novel will have you swooning, giggling while kicking your feet, and covering your blush in the very spicy scenes. And just when the novel hits its crescendo, you are left with an ending that makes you want to just get to book 2!
December 7, 2025
Oh this book!! I had the privilege of ARC reading A Throne in Bloom and let me just say I was hooked from the beginning. The world building, the details, the twist.. so good! There were slight misspellings/repeat paragraphs, but all can be fixed so easily and come release day I’ll be ready for a reread, and hopefully book 2!!
January 1, 2026
I had the best time reading this and was completely locked in from the start. The world felt so vivid, the concepts felt fresh, and the romance plus spice was so good. The twists kept surprising me and by the end I was already eager to read the next book.
Thank you for the ARC! A Throne in Bloom releases today!
Thank you for the ARC! A Throne in Bloom releases today!
Want to read
November 17, 2025Please someone tell me this book is as good as the cover its gorgeousssssss <3
January 15, 2026
DNF my ARC copy at 35%.
The ARC should have gone through more editing before going out to ARC readers, especially to remove the AI prompt....😬
"You’re right - the Sage just suddenly appears with no setup. Here’s a revision that shows their arrival:"
I was already struggling with the poor editing... Repeated types of phrases, repeated exact text, unclear passages, text where we shifted from first person pov to an almost omniscient pov, and lack of clarity. It honestly felt like an unedited draft.
The ARC should have gone through more editing before going out to ARC readers, especially to remove the AI prompt....😬
"You’re right - the Sage just suddenly appears with no setup. Here’s a revision that shows their arrival:"
I was already struggling with the poor editing... Repeated types of phrases, repeated exact text, unclear passages, text where we shifted from first person pov to an almost omniscient pov, and lack of clarity. It honestly felt like an unedited draft.
November 27, 2025
JK Ross has created a captivating and tantalizing world in her debut romantasy, A Throne in Bloom. This is book one of a duology that follows FMC Elle Hawthorne. Her entire life is turned upside down when she is pulled into the realm of Wynmire by a very reluctant bodyguard, Kaelren.
Kaelren and Elle both seek answers to questions of how she came to the realm, her family's past, and how they go forward while fighting a realm that wants to eat you alive and fending off forces set on maintaining the order.
The novel has superb pacing, keeping the reader along side the character's journey; delightful side characters because who doesn't love a quippy, magical, talking beetle; one very grumpy MMC and the ultimate sass Queen of a FMC. The magic system is richly developed in it's uniqueness providing a refreshing experience to the genre.
I was lucky to receive this as an ARC and I am so grateful I did because this is going to be a must read! These views are entirely my own and I think readers will find themselves feeling the same once this gem is in their hands.
Kaelren and Elle both seek answers to questions of how she came to the realm, her family's past, and how they go forward while fighting a realm that wants to eat you alive and fending off forces set on maintaining the order.
The novel has superb pacing, keeping the reader along side the character's journey; delightful side characters because who doesn't love a quippy, magical, talking beetle; one very grumpy MMC and the ultimate sass Queen of a FMC. The magic system is richly developed in it's uniqueness providing a refreshing experience to the genre.
I was lucky to receive this as an ARC and I am so grateful I did because this is going to be a must read! These views are entirely my own and I think readers will find themselves feeling the same once this gem is in their hands.
January 5, 2026
I was an ARC reader for this, for which I thank the author!
This book left me with very mixed feelings.
On one hand, the atmosphere is stunning. The world is rich, magical, and evocative, filled with fascinating creatures and places that feel alive on the page. Some locations, memories and moments were written so beautifully that they genuinely made me emotional. Those lingered with me, and are definitely the book’s strongest aspect. I would honestly love to see a map of this world.
I also really liked the characters as individuals. They felt layered and emotionally grounded, and I cared about them. However, while I enjoyed them separately, their interactions didn’t always work for me, especially early on. The emotional shift in the relationship between the main characters, for example, felt more told than shown. Once established, I enjoyed it, but the initial development didn’t fully convince me.
My biggest issue throughout the entire book was the magic system. It’s clear that the author was aiming for a gradual, step-by-step unraveling, which is an approach I usually love. But for that to work, at least the foundational rules have to be clearly established first, and here they never truly were. As the story progressed, more and more elements of the magic were introduced, yet because the basics weren’t explained, I found myself confused most of the time. I often understood the emotional weight of scenes - the anxiety, the urgency, the sense that something enormous was at stake - without fully understanding WHAT was actually at stake or why. That disconnect never fully resolved for me.
This lack of clarity affected some of the book’s main sources of tension. Certain actions are repeatedly framed as incredibly dangerous, even world-altering, but without a clear understanding of the magic behind them, the stakes remained abstract. I could feel that the consequences were meant to be catastrophic, but they were never concrete enough to truly land for me.
This frustration was heightened by the fact that the FMC comes from a normal human life, yet rarely asks questions about the world she’s in. That felt like a missed opportunity to explain the magic system organically and repeatedly broke my immersion.
Editing was another big issue. Not in terms of grammar, but repetition, consistency, and structure. Certain vocabulary choices, dialogue patterns, and emotional beats were reused often enough to become noticeable. Some scenes that felt like perfect opportunities to deepen side characters instead circled back to emotional points that were already well established, which made them feel a little like wasted moments. Since this was an ARC, I sincerely hope these elements were refined before publication.
To conclude, this is a book with a gorgeous atmosphere, moments of genuinely beautiful writing, and a lot of potential. But for me, the lack of a clearly explained magic foundation prevented everything else from fully coming together. I finished the story emotionally affected, but still confused.
This book left me with very mixed feelings.
On one hand, the atmosphere is stunning. The world is rich, magical, and evocative, filled with fascinating creatures and places that feel alive on the page. Some locations, memories and moments were written so beautifully that they genuinely made me emotional. Those lingered with me, and are definitely the book’s strongest aspect. I would honestly love to see a map of this world.
I also really liked the characters as individuals. They felt layered and emotionally grounded, and I cared about them. However, while I enjoyed them separately, their interactions didn’t always work for me, especially early on. The emotional shift in the relationship between the main characters, for example, felt more told than shown. Once established, I enjoyed it, but the initial development didn’t fully convince me.
My biggest issue throughout the entire book was the magic system. It’s clear that the author was aiming for a gradual, step-by-step unraveling, which is an approach I usually love. But for that to work, at least the foundational rules have to be clearly established first, and here they never truly were. As the story progressed, more and more elements of the magic were introduced, yet because the basics weren’t explained, I found myself confused most of the time. I often understood the emotional weight of scenes - the anxiety, the urgency, the sense that something enormous was at stake - without fully understanding WHAT was actually at stake or why. That disconnect never fully resolved for me.
This lack of clarity affected some of the book’s main sources of tension. Certain actions are repeatedly framed as incredibly dangerous, even world-altering, but without a clear understanding of the magic behind them, the stakes remained abstract. I could feel that the consequences were meant to be catastrophic, but they were never concrete enough to truly land for me.
This frustration was heightened by the fact that the FMC comes from a normal human life, yet rarely asks questions about the world she’s in. That felt like a missed opportunity to explain the magic system organically and repeatedly broke my immersion.
Editing was another big issue. Not in terms of grammar, but repetition, consistency, and structure. Certain vocabulary choices, dialogue patterns, and emotional beats were reused often enough to become noticeable. Some scenes that felt like perfect opportunities to deepen side characters instead circled back to emotional points that were already well established, which made them feel a little like wasted moments. Since this was an ARC, I sincerely hope these elements were refined before publication.
To conclude, this is a book with a gorgeous atmosphere, moments of genuinely beautiful writing, and a lot of potential. But for me, the lack of a clearly explained magic foundation prevented everything else from fully coming together. I finished the story emotionally affected, but still confused.
January 29, 2026
This is a totally wild ride. It’s definitely my most interesting read of the year so far. This book has Alice in Wonderland feels, cast of quirky side characters, & one of the trippiest spice scenes I’ve ever read (iykyk).
A debut book by an indie author, I really didn’t know what to expect when I began reading. I definitely didn’t think I’d have a Through the Looking Glass experience where the FMC would be able to hear the trees thoughts.
The writing was creative with beautiful imagery. The scene when Elle walks & flowers literally bloomed at her feet created a particularly gorgeous & kind of poetic scene. While fantasy & not a political statement, I felt the author’s passion for the environment & her respect for nature, balance & growth throughout.
I liked Elle & Kaelryn’s connection & his reluctance to get emotionally invested made him a perfect tortured hero. His brooding, tortured moments were some of my favorites. I would have happily read more of that as they built to their big moment. Their soul deep bond helped keep the dual location plot together as they were separated. And I’m intrigued by Elle’s caretaker & how she got where she was. I’d love to know why she chose to fight in that last scene
If I liked it, why not FIVE stars?
There were moments when the imagery pulled focus from the plot & characters. I also would have like to have seen more relationship development. Knowing this is a series, I’m hoping that some of the many questions I have get answered in future books.
The author is a skilled writer, with a fresh perspective, but I wanted to feel a little more connection to the characters. There were also a few plot holes or places where the plot jumped & I felt like I missed something. But again, it’s a series so some of these may have been necessary to keep the plot plotting away.
Her spots of humor were pretty brilliant & I loved the beetle & Kevin. I did think the beetle’s character was clearer voiced before it was revealed that he was every Elle. The mushroom spice scene was really out there. Was it hot? Yes but also so wild. I sometimes struggled a little to stay in the scene with the characters.
OVERALL
That said, this book was an unexpected & solidly good time. It’s definitely got me looking at mushrooms differently 😉 I’d happily try another book by this new author.
PLOT
Elle is transported from her grandmother’s house into a garden realm where she begins to shows powerful root magic all over her body in golden veins. Protecting her, is Kaelren, who is a failed, broody prince, who is covered in corrupted, rotting veins (think opposites: light v dark). There she’s surrounded by an unlikely group of unusual & unique side characters as she & the team try to save their dying kingdom from a power hungry ruler.
3.75 stars 2 peppers
A debut book by an indie author, I really didn’t know what to expect when I began reading. I definitely didn’t think I’d have a Through the Looking Glass experience where the FMC would be able to hear the trees thoughts.
The writing was creative with beautiful imagery. The scene when Elle walks & flowers literally bloomed at her feet created a particularly gorgeous & kind of poetic scene. While fantasy & not a political statement, I felt the author’s passion for the environment & her respect for nature, balance & growth throughout.
I liked Elle & Kaelryn’s connection & his reluctance to get emotionally invested made him a perfect tortured hero. His brooding, tortured moments were some of my favorites. I would have happily read more of that as they built to their big moment. Their soul deep bond helped keep the dual location plot together as they were separated. And I’m intrigued by Elle’s caretaker & how she got where she was. I’d love to know why she chose to fight in that last scene
If I liked it, why not FIVE stars?
There were moments when the imagery pulled focus from the plot & characters. I also would have like to have seen more relationship development. Knowing this is a series, I’m hoping that some of the many questions I have get answered in future books.
The author is a skilled writer, with a fresh perspective, but I wanted to feel a little more connection to the characters. There were also a few plot holes or places where the plot jumped & I felt like I missed something. But again, it’s a series so some of these may have been necessary to keep the plot plotting away.
Her spots of humor were pretty brilliant & I loved the beetle & Kevin. I did think the beetle’s character was clearer voiced before it was revealed that he was every Elle. The mushroom spice scene was really out there. Was it hot? Yes but also so wild. I sometimes struggled a little to stay in the scene with the characters.
OVERALL
That said, this book was an unexpected & solidly good time. It’s definitely got me looking at mushrooms differently 😉 I’d happily try another book by this new author.
PLOT
Elle is transported from her grandmother’s house into a garden realm where she begins to shows powerful root magic all over her body in golden veins. Protecting her, is Kaelren, who is a failed, broody prince, who is covered in corrupted, rotting veins (think opposites: light v dark). There she’s surrounded by an unlikely group of unusual & unique side characters as she & the team try to save their dying kingdom from a power hungry ruler.
3.75 stars 2 peppers
December 3, 2025
A Throne in Bloom is a warm, magical romantic fantasy that brings you into a world where truly everything is alive. When Elle, a fierce but vulnerable human, crosses paths with Kaelren, a powerful and enigmatic being from an different realm, the two are forced into an unexpected alliance. What begins as a reluctant partnership unfolds into a deeply emotional connection, set against a force who doesn’t want them to succeed. In this wonderful book they will be exposed to political danger, ancient magic, and a world that seems to breathe, whisper, judge, and know every step they take.
If you love banter, you will get plenty of it in this book! It is witty, sharp, and deeply thought-provoking. J. K. Ross has a way of writing that will keep you hooked! Her way of writing makes you feel the high emotional stakes. One of the most striking I read was, “If they were about to take me… would you kill me first?” / “Yes, without hesitation… Quick is kinder. It’s the last gift I could give you if it came to that.” It perfectly captures the raw, deep bond between Elle and Kaelren. Their honesty is steady, their loyalty holds strong like roots in the earth, and their connection feels inevitable in the best possible way. Every interaction between them hums with tension, vulnerability, and the sense that they each hold the power to destroy or save the other.
Ross’s world-building is nothing short of captivating. The environment isn’t just a setting. It’s alive, active, and emotionally meaningful in ways that make the story feel completely unique. The sensory depth, the intricate lore, and the way the world responds to the characters’ choices pull you in effortlessly. And yes… that unforgettable plant encounter will definitely have you trying to visualize the moment.
The pacing strikes an even balance between emotional moments, character growth, and high-stakes magic. You don’t just root for Elle and Kaelren, you hold out hope for them to find a peace in a magical world that has different plans.
If the tropes you love include forced proximity, one bed, political tension, chosen loyalty and protective love then you will want to devour this book. It will leave you asking yourself just how far would you go to protect the one person who completes you?
As the first book in The Thorned Sigil series, it sets the foundation superbly with its rich world-building, captivating stakes, characters you can’t help but cheer for, and a story that wraps itself around your imagination like a blooming vine. If you love a romantasy that is deep, original and set in a vivid living world, you will want to add this to your TBR.
This is my honest review of an ARC I received.
If you love banter, you will get plenty of it in this book! It is witty, sharp, and deeply thought-provoking. J. K. Ross has a way of writing that will keep you hooked! Her way of writing makes you feel the high emotional stakes. One of the most striking I read was, “If they were about to take me… would you kill me first?” / “Yes, without hesitation… Quick is kinder. It’s the last gift I could give you if it came to that.” It perfectly captures the raw, deep bond between Elle and Kaelren. Their honesty is steady, their loyalty holds strong like roots in the earth, and their connection feels inevitable in the best possible way. Every interaction between them hums with tension, vulnerability, and the sense that they each hold the power to destroy or save the other.
Ross’s world-building is nothing short of captivating. The environment isn’t just a setting. It’s alive, active, and emotionally meaningful in ways that make the story feel completely unique. The sensory depth, the intricate lore, and the way the world responds to the characters’ choices pull you in effortlessly. And yes… that unforgettable plant encounter will definitely have you trying to visualize the moment.
The pacing strikes an even balance between emotional moments, character growth, and high-stakes magic. You don’t just root for Elle and Kaelren, you hold out hope for them to find a peace in a magical world that has different plans.
If the tropes you love include forced proximity, one bed, political tension, chosen loyalty and protective love then you will want to devour this book. It will leave you asking yourself just how far would you go to protect the one person who completes you?
As the first book in The Thorned Sigil series, it sets the foundation superbly with its rich world-building, captivating stakes, characters you can’t help but cheer for, and a story that wraps itself around your imagination like a blooming vine. If you love a romantasy that is deep, original and set in a vivid living world, you will want to add this to your TBR.
This is my honest review of an ARC I received.
January 17, 2026
“…I finally understood that nothing grows without being tended. Not plants. Not love. Not even yourself.”
A Throne in Bloom opens with Elle inheriting her late grandmother Jo’s house, an event that seems mundane at first, but quickly becomes the catalyst for everything that follows. Through a chain of strange occurrences, Elle falls through a tear between realms and lands in Wynmire, a living, breathing world unlike anything she’s known.
Waiting on the other side is Kaelren, a failed and rejected prince who once promised Jo he would protect anything that crossed into his realm. Elle is not what he expected and she may be either Wynmire’s salvation or its destruction. As the Crown seeks to weaponise her growing powers, Elle finds herself under Kaelren’s reluctant protection, joining a band of misfit rebels fighting for the realm’s survival.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its world-building. Wynmire feels truly alive not just inhabited, but sentient, growing, decaying, and responding to the characters within it. It’s refreshingly different from many fantasy realms we’re used to, and the botanical, almost organic magic system is incredibly creative and immersive.
Elle is a highly likeable and believable protagonist. Thrown into an entirely new world, she must learn to navigate unfamiliar magic while carrying an ever-increasing weight of responsibility. Her reactions feel realistic — she is, after all, a modern girl falling through time and space and I really appreciated that she’s headstrong, adaptable, and very much not a damsel in distress.
Kaelren, the rejected prince, makes for a compelling MMC. The dynamic between him and Elle is pure black cat x golden retriever energy. He’s snappy and guarded, she’s sharp-tongued and always ready with a comeback. The tension between them is palpable and delicious, full of touch her/him and 💀 energy as they fight their attraction right up until the inevitable “fuck it” moment.
The side characters are equally well-rounded, which adds so much depth to the story. You don’t just meet them you grow to care about them. Pebble and Bryx, in particular, steal the spotlight with their mix of comic relief and surprisingly thoughtful perspectives, helping to balance the darker stakes of the narrative.
The story itself is a non-stop roller coaster, steadily escalating until it crashes into a massive cliffhanger. I genuinely couldn’t believe it was over and yes, now I have to wait (T.T sigh). Jokes aside, I’m incredibly excited to see where the author takes this story next and will absolutely be picking up the sequel the moment it’s released.
A Throne in Bloom opens with Elle inheriting her late grandmother Jo’s house, an event that seems mundane at first, but quickly becomes the catalyst for everything that follows. Through a chain of strange occurrences, Elle falls through a tear between realms and lands in Wynmire, a living, breathing world unlike anything she’s known.
Waiting on the other side is Kaelren, a failed and rejected prince who once promised Jo he would protect anything that crossed into his realm. Elle is not what he expected and she may be either Wynmire’s salvation or its destruction. As the Crown seeks to weaponise her growing powers, Elle finds herself under Kaelren’s reluctant protection, joining a band of misfit rebels fighting for the realm’s survival.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its world-building. Wynmire feels truly alive not just inhabited, but sentient, growing, decaying, and responding to the characters within it. It’s refreshingly different from many fantasy realms we’re used to, and the botanical, almost organic magic system is incredibly creative and immersive.
Elle is a highly likeable and believable protagonist. Thrown into an entirely new world, she must learn to navigate unfamiliar magic while carrying an ever-increasing weight of responsibility. Her reactions feel realistic — she is, after all, a modern girl falling through time and space and I really appreciated that she’s headstrong, adaptable, and very much not a damsel in distress.
Kaelren, the rejected prince, makes for a compelling MMC. The dynamic between him and Elle is pure black cat x golden retriever energy. He’s snappy and guarded, she’s sharp-tongued and always ready with a comeback. The tension between them is palpable and delicious, full of touch her/him and 💀 energy as they fight their attraction right up until the inevitable “fuck it” moment.
The side characters are equally well-rounded, which adds so much depth to the story. You don’t just meet them you grow to care about them. Pebble and Bryx, in particular, steal the spotlight with their mix of comic relief and surprisingly thoughtful perspectives, helping to balance the darker stakes of the narrative.
The story itself is a non-stop roller coaster, steadily escalating until it crashes into a massive cliffhanger. I genuinely couldn’t believe it was over and yes, now I have to wait (T.T sigh). Jokes aside, I’m incredibly excited to see where the author takes this story next and will absolutely be picking up the sequel the moment it’s released.
January 22, 2026
WOW. This book surprised me...
It was honestly hard to hate this book based solely on the world building. JK gives us this ethereal, magical forest realm that is Wynmire, where Root & Bloom live wild.
This book starts off making you think you’re reading a contemporary story, with our FMC Elle moving into her grandmas house after her death. She's probably there for less than 24hrs until she quite literally Alice n’ Wonderlands into this other world. We're introduced to Peeble the talking beetle- who we later find out plays a much bigger role in the story. Unfortunately I didn't feel like I could connect to Elle's character, which made her feel a little boring & immature, considering all these crazy changes & transformations were happening to her.
Our MMC/ dark prince Kaelren-I hate his name btw, like really you had to give us something that's hard to pronounce?! acts as our fallen hero with a dark past, who eventually falls for Elle.
My favs were actually the supporting characters in Peeble, Byrex & KEVINNNN which definitely help keep the book moving long with witty banter.
Overall the book was a little to slow paced for a fantasy/romantasy. Even though you can tell JK REALLY spent time thinking & creating these scenes- like THE DREAMSCAPE!!!! Which were my favorite parts of the book! All I'll say is this gives "Vine Play" a whole new meaning.
I wouldn’t normally comment on the “editing” since I rcv'd this as an ARC, but it was just so BAD I couldn't ignore it! Like I feel like KJs editor did her dirty cause there were multiple times that she had a repetitive paragraph like she had shifted part of the story around but forgot to delete it. Or duplicate phrases through out the same scene, that felt copied/paste. It honestly got confusing at times & had to make sure I hadn’t accidentally backtrack. This was a big reason I gave this a lower rating.
I do have to give credit to JK that I loved where her mind was, with the overall themes, plot & story telling of this book. She beautifully described elements- flower or plant, the forest, trees, etc... that really let you feel like you were there. It almost felt like I needed a botanist/botanical encyclopedia with some of her details listed- (plant lovers will appreciate). And then when you get to the "iterations" & time sequences part, it added a layer of complexity that enhanced the overall story, which I found I wanted more of. Giving Wheel of Time vibes.
I wish I could've given this a 5, but it really just felt like this book needed more refining.
Thank you JK for sending this ARC!
It was honestly hard to hate this book based solely on the world building. JK gives us this ethereal, magical forest realm that is Wynmire, where Root & Bloom live wild.
This book starts off making you think you’re reading a contemporary story, with our FMC Elle moving into her grandmas house after her death. She's probably there for less than 24hrs until she quite literally Alice n’ Wonderlands into this other world. We're introduced to Peeble the talking beetle- who we later find out plays a much bigger role in the story. Unfortunately I didn't feel like I could connect to Elle's character, which made her feel a little boring & immature, considering all these crazy changes & transformations were happening to her.
Our MMC/ dark prince Kaelren-I hate his name btw, like really you had to give us something that's hard to pronounce?! acts as our fallen hero with a dark past, who eventually falls for Elle.
My favs were actually the supporting characters in Peeble, Byrex & KEVINNNN which definitely help keep the book moving long with witty banter.
Overall the book was a little to slow paced for a fantasy/romantasy. Even though you can tell JK REALLY spent time thinking & creating these scenes- like THE DREAMSCAPE!!!! Which were my favorite parts of the book! All I'll say is this gives "Vine Play" a whole new meaning.
I wouldn’t normally comment on the “editing” since I rcv'd this as an ARC, but it was just so BAD I couldn't ignore it! Like I feel like KJs editor did her dirty cause there were multiple times that she had a repetitive paragraph like she had shifted part of the story around but forgot to delete it. Or duplicate phrases through out the same scene, that felt copied/paste. It honestly got confusing at times & had to make sure I hadn’t accidentally backtrack. This was a big reason I gave this a lower rating.
I do have to give credit to JK that I loved where her mind was, with the overall themes, plot & story telling of this book. She beautifully described elements- flower or plant, the forest, trees, etc... that really let you feel like you were there. It almost felt like I needed a botanist/botanical encyclopedia with some of her details listed- (plant lovers will appreciate). And then when you get to the "iterations" & time sequences part, it added a layer of complexity that enhanced the overall story, which I found I wanted more of. Giving Wheel of Time vibes.
I wish I could've given this a 5, but it really just felt like this book needed more refining.
Thank you JK for sending this ARC!
December 7, 2025
Thank you J. K. Ross for sending me this ARC!
When Elle inherits her late grandmother’s house, the last thing she expects is to get transported into a different world through a portal in a tree in her grandmother’s garden. Discovering her family kept many secrets from her and she actually has powers she can’t control, Elle must join Kaelren and his friends to learn about her magic and no matter how much they can’t stand each other and despite their growing attraction and unwanted bond, they need to work together before her magic kills her or before they get caught by the Crown looking for Elle.
This book must have one of the most unique and interesting magic systems I’ve ever read about and I loved learning about and discovering it alongside Elle, our FMC. She was a true fish out of water after being thrown into that magical world and learning that she has magic herself and I liked how realistic her reactions were to everything and it was great to see her grow in this book, she had an amazing character development and after how this book ended I’m excited to see how she grows in the next one. Kaelren was a complicated MMC, he was a real jerk in the beginning but I could understand why and he quickly grew on me, he also had some perfect ‘touch her and die’ scenes that always make me swoon. Elle and Kaelren definitely didn’t start off on the right foot but I loved seeing their slow burn kind of hate to love relationship with very reluctant allies thrown in the middle, they were the definition of grumpy x sunshine but fit together so well and I really enjoyed seeing them together. And of course one of my favorite characters was Peeble, they truly stole the show so many times and was a comedic relief, I loved it every time they appeared.
While I enjoyed this book, I think I had an issue with the pacing. I felt like at times everything was happening too quickly while other times it was dragging a bit and made it hard for me to stay focused on what was happening. It also took me a while to get fully into this story but I’m grateful I didn’t stop reading because it did pick up eventually and I ended up really enjoying this book, especially the second part made it difficult to put it down and the last few chapters were so good.
A Throne in Bloom is a great fantasy romance book, I had a great time reading it and recommend it to those who enjoy this genre.
When Elle inherits her late grandmother’s house, the last thing she expects is to get transported into a different world through a portal in a tree in her grandmother’s garden. Discovering her family kept many secrets from her and she actually has powers she can’t control, Elle must join Kaelren and his friends to learn about her magic and no matter how much they can’t stand each other and despite their growing attraction and unwanted bond, they need to work together before her magic kills her or before they get caught by the Crown looking for Elle.
This book must have one of the most unique and interesting magic systems I’ve ever read about and I loved learning about and discovering it alongside Elle, our FMC. She was a true fish out of water after being thrown into that magical world and learning that she has magic herself and I liked how realistic her reactions were to everything and it was great to see her grow in this book, she had an amazing character development and after how this book ended I’m excited to see how she grows in the next one. Kaelren was a complicated MMC, he was a real jerk in the beginning but I could understand why and he quickly grew on me, he also had some perfect ‘touch her and die’ scenes that always make me swoon. Elle and Kaelren definitely didn’t start off on the right foot but I loved seeing their slow burn kind of hate to love relationship with very reluctant allies thrown in the middle, they were the definition of grumpy x sunshine but fit together so well and I really enjoyed seeing them together. And of course one of my favorite characters was Peeble, they truly stole the show so many times and was a comedic relief, I loved it every time they appeared.
While I enjoyed this book, I think I had an issue with the pacing. I felt like at times everything was happening too quickly while other times it was dragging a bit and made it hard for me to stay focused on what was happening. It also took me a while to get fully into this story but I’m grateful I didn’t stop reading because it did pick up eventually and I ended up really enjoying this book, especially the second part made it difficult to put it down and the last few chapters were so good.
A Throne in Bloom is a great fantasy romance book, I had a great time reading it and recommend it to those who enjoy this genre.
December 16, 2025
Alright. I might have angry read half of this book. I am trying my best to remain constructive in my reviews. I think this book has great potential. In my opinion, it needs a bit more polishing.
Summary:
Elle's grandmother passed away and she inherits her house. On her first night there, a portal open and two males show up to take her in the realm she's from. Her grandma had escaped it a long time ago.
Elle is chosen by the root and marks show up on her. Kaelren is corrupted, but promised the grandma to keep Elle safe. The crown prince wants to take her to have her powers.
Opinion
I think the general idea was good. A botanical fantasy is out of the ordinary and the message the author tries to convey through her story is a good one.
What did not work for me was the writing itself.
- The magic system between root, bloom, seed and rot was not clearly explained. I finished and I can really tell you what it means.
- The secondary characters are not shining much. We barely know anything about them. It was hard to connect with them. Bryx was funny, but that didn't happen until 3/4 of the book.
- We are told and not shown. Kaelren is basically loathing and lusting until the loathing is over all of a sudden. Elle makes friend with a servant near the end. They have about two very short interactions before I am told how they deeply care for each other.
- The vocabulary is excessivly repetitive. Everything is impossible or shouldn't exist. Regret is, in my opinion, an important secondary character at this point.
- There are inconsistencies throughout the book about her mother's death, the previous failures and the effect of physical contact between the main characters.
- Botanical smut 😶I was not prepared for this.
- The desire to have an emotional whimsical story overpowers the story itself. A lot of time is spent describing things that shouldn't exist or are impossible. I did not really understand the quest. The ending was meant to be tear jerking I think, but I mostly felt like the author was trying too hard.
My buddy reader just abandoned me with this book 🤣 I was just too stubborn to dnf.
Summary:
Elle's grandmother passed away and she inherits her house. On her first night there, a portal open and two males show up to take her in the realm she's from. Her grandma had escaped it a long time ago.
Elle is chosen by the root and marks show up on her. Kaelren is corrupted, but promised the grandma to keep Elle safe. The crown prince wants to take her to have her powers.
Opinion
I think the general idea was good. A botanical fantasy is out of the ordinary and the message the author tries to convey through her story is a good one.
What did not work for me was the writing itself.
- The magic system between root, bloom, seed and rot was not clearly explained. I finished and I can really tell you what it means.
- The secondary characters are not shining much. We barely know anything about them. It was hard to connect with them. Bryx was funny, but that didn't happen until 3/4 of the book.
- We are told and not shown. Kaelren is basically loathing and lusting until the loathing is over all of a sudden. Elle makes friend with a servant near the end. They have about two very short interactions before I am told how they deeply care for each other.
- The vocabulary is excessivly repetitive. Everything is impossible or shouldn't exist. Regret is, in my opinion, an important secondary character at this point.
- There are inconsistencies throughout the book about her mother's death, the previous failures and the effect of physical contact between the main characters.
- Botanical smut 😶I was not prepared for this.
- The desire to have an emotional whimsical story overpowers the story itself. A lot of time is spent describing things that shouldn't exist or are impossible. I did not really understand the quest. The ending was meant to be tear jerking I think, but I mostly felt like the author was trying too hard.
My buddy reader just abandoned me with this book 🤣 I was just too stubborn to dnf.
December 2, 2025
A Throne in Bloom is the kind of romantasy that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place. From the very first page, J.K. Ross pulls you into a world that feels vibrant and alive, written with the kind of stunning, sensory detail that makes every setting bloom right off the page. I found myself completely immersed—like I was walking through this world shoulder to shoulder with these characters.
The humor in this story is priceless. A “death bee named Kevin” genuinely lives rent-free in my mind now. But right alongside the laughs comes a powerful emotional undercurrent that made me fall headfirst for the characters.
Elle is a standout heroine. Clever, fierce, and just the right amount of stubborn. Watching the world through her eyes made everything sharper and more alive. And Kaelren… if morally gray, reluctant-protector MMCs are your weakness, good luck. At 11% he hit me with “I’m a killer who happens to be keeping you alive,” and I never recovered.
Their dynamic is everything. Tension that simmers. Banter that cuts. A slow burn that builds until you’re practically vibrating with the need for them to just touch. And when they do? Softness, devotion, obsession. The kind of protectiveness that could topple kingdoms.
The transformation in their relationship gave me actual chills. Watching Kaelren go from “I’ll kill you if I must” to “I would die if it meant you lived” was breathtaking. By the time he declares, “I would burn down both worlds if that’s what it takes to get you back,” my soul left my body.
This book made me laugh. It made me swoon. It made me clutch my heart like a Victorian woman hearing bad news. I didn’t want to put it down for a second. By the halfway point, I already knew I didn’t want it to ever end.
A Throne in Bloom isn’t just a book. It’s an experience. It’s easily one of the best reads of my year—top three without hesitation—and a story I’ll be thinking about long after the final page.❤️
The humor in this story is priceless. A “death bee named Kevin” genuinely lives rent-free in my mind now. But right alongside the laughs comes a powerful emotional undercurrent that made me fall headfirst for the characters.
Elle is a standout heroine. Clever, fierce, and just the right amount of stubborn. Watching the world through her eyes made everything sharper and more alive. And Kaelren… if morally gray, reluctant-protector MMCs are your weakness, good luck. At 11% he hit me with “I’m a killer who happens to be keeping you alive,” and I never recovered.
Their dynamic is everything. Tension that simmers. Banter that cuts. A slow burn that builds until you’re practically vibrating with the need for them to just touch. And when they do? Softness, devotion, obsession. The kind of protectiveness that could topple kingdoms.
The transformation in their relationship gave me actual chills. Watching Kaelren go from “I’ll kill you if I must” to “I would die if it meant you lived” was breathtaking. By the time he declares, “I would burn down both worlds if that’s what it takes to get you back,” my soul left my body.
This book made me laugh. It made me swoon. It made me clutch my heart like a Victorian woman hearing bad news. I didn’t want to put it down for a second. By the halfway point, I already knew I didn’t want it to ever end.
A Throne in Bloom isn’t just a book. It’s an experience. It’s easily one of the best reads of my year—top three without hesitation—and a story I’ll be thinking about long after the final page.❤️
January 15, 2026
Huge thanks to the author for sending me an ARC!
A Throne in Bloom feels like stepping through a tear in reality and landing somewhere beautiful in the wrong way, where magic is alive, hungry, and everything has a price. From the moment Elle falls into Wynmire, the story carries an eerie, enchanted energy. It feels like Alice in Wonderland with sharper teeth, threaded through with cruelty, power plays, and the constant threat of being claimed.
Elle is a heroine I genuinely loved. She is resilient, stubborn, and refuses to become anyone’s pawn, even as the golden Root-marks spread across her skin and her humanity begins to slip. Watching her fight to keep herself, her autonomy, and her will was one of the most compelling parts of the book. And the little talking beetle sidekick brought just enough strange charm to soften the darkness without breaking it.
Kaelren is pure brooding menace at first. Cold, scarred, and dangerous. But the slow shift in him is what made the romance work for me. Their connection grows sharper and deeper with every shared moment until it becomes fierce, consuming, and impossible to deny. By the end, he is giving full “I will burn the world down for you” energy, and Elle is just as willing to sacrifice everything in return. Also, the spice is very present, so definitely go in prepared.
The side characters were a highlight too. They felt layered and intriguing, with just enough backstory to make me want more. Kevin especially stole my heart. My only reason for not giving five stars is pacing. Some sections moved too quickly, while others lingered a bit too long, and it occasionally pulled me out of the story.
Still, the world-building is rich without becoming overwhelming, the atmosphere is deliciously dark, and the emotional stakes build beautifully. A Throne in Bloom is a strong, haunting start to a series I will absolutely be continuing.
A Throne in Bloom feels like stepping through a tear in reality and landing somewhere beautiful in the wrong way, where magic is alive, hungry, and everything has a price. From the moment Elle falls into Wynmire, the story carries an eerie, enchanted energy. It feels like Alice in Wonderland with sharper teeth, threaded through with cruelty, power plays, and the constant threat of being claimed.
Elle is a heroine I genuinely loved. She is resilient, stubborn, and refuses to become anyone’s pawn, even as the golden Root-marks spread across her skin and her humanity begins to slip. Watching her fight to keep herself, her autonomy, and her will was one of the most compelling parts of the book. And the little talking beetle sidekick brought just enough strange charm to soften the darkness without breaking it.
Kaelren is pure brooding menace at first. Cold, scarred, and dangerous. But the slow shift in him is what made the romance work for me. Their connection grows sharper and deeper with every shared moment until it becomes fierce, consuming, and impossible to deny. By the end, he is giving full “I will burn the world down for you” energy, and Elle is just as willing to sacrifice everything in return. Also, the spice is very present, so definitely go in prepared.
The side characters were a highlight too. They felt layered and intriguing, with just enough backstory to make me want more. Kevin especially stole my heart. My only reason for not giving five stars is pacing. Some sections moved too quickly, while others lingered a bit too long, and it occasionally pulled me out of the story.
Still, the world-building is rich without becoming overwhelming, the atmosphere is deliciously dark, and the emotional stakes build beautifully. A Throne in Bloom is a strong, haunting start to a series I will absolutely be continuing.
January 5, 2026
The premise and cover of this book made me want to read it, and I am happy to say that it did not disappoint. I never thought I would say that one of my favorite characters was a beetle but this book gives you just that. Peeble's is so dang funny and the banter between Peeble's and Elle (fmc) are some of the best moments in the book.
The worlding building in this book was so unique as well as the magic system. Wynmire is a world where everything comes to life. The author gave you the picture instead of you building the picture in your mind. Ross describes the world in such vivid detail that you can picture yourself there.
Elle was born between two worlds and inherited magic. Reading Elle's journey of self-discovery in the development of her powers was such a great journey. Also, Elle learning about her connection to her grandmother's history. Elle was resilient and strong. And I now want my own talking beetle companion. Sometimes these books really give you things that you want to be true so bad, Peeble is that for me.
Kaelren is a prince who would do anything for Elle to ensure she stays safe, including destroy anything in his path to Elle. I wasn't very sure about him to begin with, but when he finally starting opening up to Elle I started to like him. He falls hard for her too.
The side characters also made this story so much better they had their own stories, personalities and their banter was so funny. I was laughing so hard throughout this book. This is a slow burn romance, so if you want fast paced, it might not be for you, but I promise if you keep pushing yourself, you might find a new world and story to love. Now, I will just be over hear impatiently waiting for book 2 to come.
Thank you so much to J.K. Ross for sharing this story with me. All of my opinions are my own.
The worlding building in this book was so unique as well as the magic system. Wynmire is a world where everything comes to life. The author gave you the picture instead of you building the picture in your mind. Ross describes the world in such vivid detail that you can picture yourself there.
Elle was born between two worlds and inherited magic. Reading Elle's journey of self-discovery in the development of her powers was such a great journey. Also, Elle learning about her connection to her grandmother's history. Elle was resilient and strong. And I now want my own talking beetle companion. Sometimes these books really give you things that you want to be true so bad, Peeble is that for me.
Kaelren is a prince who would do anything for Elle to ensure she stays safe, including destroy anything in his path to Elle. I wasn't very sure about him to begin with, but when he finally starting opening up to Elle I started to like him. He falls hard for her too.
The side characters also made this story so much better they had their own stories, personalities and their banter was so funny. I was laughing so hard throughout this book. This is a slow burn romance, so if you want fast paced, it might not be for you, but I promise if you keep pushing yourself, you might find a new world and story to love. Now, I will just be over hear impatiently waiting for book 2 to come.
Thank you so much to J.K. Ross for sharing this story with me. All of my opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
Where do I even begin!?!? This book is absolutely like nothing I have read! I loved every minute of it.
The first chapter had me rolling in memories of the past with my own great-grandmother who was the most precious person to me growing up. The way the author details things down to the dust bunnies floating in the air makes you feel like you are standing in the room experiencing it yourself! And this is just the first chapter!
The world building in the book is top notch. The world itself is so unique and I have yet to read anything remotely similar. The character development and growth is so beautiful.
I fell in love with all the characters! My favorite characters (not surprisingly) were 2 of the side characters, Peeble and Bryx! They are hilarious even in the worst times! Our FMC and MMC, Elle and Kaelran are also amazing in their own ways. Elle is strong, fierce and oh so sassy. Kaelran is broody, moody, sexy and so very protective.
The slow-burn between Elle and Kaelran had me screaming to get it over with but when the spice hit it was well worth the wait!
I especially love the life changing quotes and phrases throughout the book. As well as the perfect pacing with plenty of twists, turns and surprises throughout. I found myself highlighting entirely too much.
And can we take a minute just to appreciate the beauty that is the cover of this book!?!?
If you love unique world-building, slow-burn, spicy, unique magics, fantastic characters, enemies to lovers and found family then you will want to add this book to your TBR immediately!
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this copy in advance. All opinions are my own.
The first chapter had me rolling in memories of the past with my own great-grandmother who was the most precious person to me growing up. The way the author details things down to the dust bunnies floating in the air makes you feel like you are standing in the room experiencing it yourself! And this is just the first chapter!
The world building in the book is top notch. The world itself is so unique and I have yet to read anything remotely similar. The character development and growth is so beautiful.
I fell in love with all the characters! My favorite characters (not surprisingly) were 2 of the side characters, Peeble and Bryx! They are hilarious even in the worst times! Our FMC and MMC, Elle and Kaelran are also amazing in their own ways. Elle is strong, fierce and oh so sassy. Kaelran is broody, moody, sexy and so very protective.
The slow-burn between Elle and Kaelran had me screaming to get it over with but when the spice hit it was well worth the wait!
I especially love the life changing quotes and phrases throughout the book. As well as the perfect pacing with plenty of twists, turns and surprises throughout. I found myself highlighting entirely too much.
And can we take a minute just to appreciate the beauty that is the cover of this book!?!?
If you love unique world-building, slow-burn, spicy, unique magics, fantastic characters, enemies to lovers and found family then you will want to add this book to your TBR immediately!
Many thanks to the author for the opportunity to read this copy in advance. All opinions are my own.
December 24, 2025
This book was amazing!!!!!!!!! It is arguably one of my reads of the year. I found J.K on socials and fell in love with the snippets she shared of this story but I never anticipated being on the edge of my seat the entire book. I LOVE our mmc, Kaelren. He is the perfect mix of Xaden Riorson, Kingfisher and Aragorn. I love a broody shadow daddy as a mmc and Kaelren brings all the broody touch her and die energy. I devoured this book in less than 12 hours and that is huge for me because I usually have to take my time with fantasy/romantasy. This was such a page turner and it had me grasping for more each chapter. J.K out did herself and I can not recommend this book enough. The book is not average HEA romantasy, the ending is a killer that hits you out of nowhere. The fmc Elle is so badass. I am so happy that J.K did not make her a frail and skinny 19 year old. I love that she let Elle be older and more mature than your average FMC in fantasy, I also loved that Elle's story felt real even though it is a work of fiction. If you love Ridoc from the Empyrean series or Carrion from Quicksliver , than you will love Bryx and Pebble. They are the perfect comic relief for this story. Thank J.K for creating such a relatable story that reminds us that we are never too much or broken and that we should never make ourselves smaller to please someone else especially for a MAN. I hate Jullian and agree with Kaelren's statement that he deserves to die. Everyone go read this book immediately, and please consider adding J.K to your romanstasy author roster because she is up there with Rebecca Yarros and Callie Hart.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌺 ARC Review 🌺
In this fantasy, we meet Elle, who has inherited her grandmother's house. But, has she inherited more from her grandmother than she bargained for? Pulled from our world into Wynmire, she must battle to save the realm.
I wanted to read this ARC because the plot synopsis interested me, but I got so much more than I hoped for.
This may be the fastest paced fantasy I've read in some time. J.K. pulls you into the story immediately and keeps the tempo up and running from beginning to end.
The writing is so natural. Conversations aren't forced and the dialogue from the minor characters adds so much and the story moves through tension and joy and stress and leaves us wanting more. I can't believe this is her debut novel! Wow!
Her imagination of the world of flora in action and how good and evil battle for dominion is such a fun interpretation through the Alice in Wonderland-esque story.
Peeble the beetle 🪲 is the Jiminy Cricket you didn't know you need in your life! And Bryx is the funniest, most adorable character. I was definitely laughing out loud at what Bryx said. Soo endearing 🤣
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. How long do I have to wait?! 😩
**Notes about the spiciness**
🌶️🌶️🌶️ There were several explicitly spicy scenes. They didn't contain a lot of relevant dialogue, so they could probably be skipped (of skimmed quickly)
If you like Quicksilver, Mistborn, or Crescent City, you may like this book.
Triggers: Violence, Death
In this fantasy, we meet Elle, who has inherited her grandmother's house. But, has she inherited more from her grandmother than she bargained for? Pulled from our world into Wynmire, she must battle to save the realm.
I wanted to read this ARC because the plot synopsis interested me, but I got so much more than I hoped for.
This may be the fastest paced fantasy I've read in some time. J.K. pulls you into the story immediately and keeps the tempo up and running from beginning to end.
The writing is so natural. Conversations aren't forced and the dialogue from the minor characters adds so much and the story moves through tension and joy and stress and leaves us wanting more. I can't believe this is her debut novel! Wow!
Her imagination of the world of flora in action and how good and evil battle for dominion is such a fun interpretation through the Alice in Wonderland-esque story.
Peeble the beetle 🪲 is the Jiminy Cricket you didn't know you need in your life! And Bryx is the funniest, most adorable character. I was definitely laughing out loud at what Bryx said. Soo endearing 🤣
I can't wait to read the next book in this series. How long do I have to wait?! 😩
**Notes about the spiciness**
🌶️🌶️🌶️ There were several explicitly spicy scenes. They didn't contain a lot of relevant dialogue, so they could probably be skipped (of skimmed quickly)
If you like Quicksilver, Mistborn, or Crescent City, you may like this book.
Triggers: Violence, Death
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