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The Siren Mage #2
In the Wake of the Ruined
Not yet published
Expected 7 Jul 26The realm has a new queen… and a new monster.
Imogen can no longer hide. She has claimed her ancestral crown, and now the corrupted bond she shares with the ancient deity Eusia is stronger than ever. Though she is determined to sever it, doing so is no easy feat. The threat of war looms. Shifting alliances, a hunger for magic, and her feelings for Theodore, King of Varya, attempt to thwart her at every turn.
Meanwhile, Theodore is battling the strain of his own crown and commitments. When Imogen suddenly appears on his ship, every dutiful resolution he’s ever made threatens to snap. As they draw nearer to ending Eusia, lurking dangers and their perilous desire for one another prove more insurmountable than they could have imagined.
Will the chaos, ruin, and death that Imogen was prophesied to usher into the realm be the end of all things, or the beginning?
Imogen can no longer hide. She has claimed her ancestral crown, and now the corrupted bond she shares with the ancient deity Eusia is stronger than ever. Though she is determined to sever it, doing so is no easy feat. The threat of war looms. Shifting alliances, a hunger for magic, and her feelings for Theodore, King of Varya, attempt to thwart her at every turn.
Meanwhile, Theodore is battling the strain of his own crown and commitments. When Imogen suddenly appears on his ship, every dutiful resolution he’s ever made threatens to snap. As they draw nearer to ending Eusia, lurking dangers and their perilous desire for one another prove more insurmountable than they could have imagined.
Will the chaos, ruin, and death that Imogen was prophesied to usher into the realm be the end of all things, or the beginning?
432 pages, Paperback
Expected publication July 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
March 13, 2026
FIVE BAJILLION STARS (and that epilogue made me weep)
yearning was off the charts again
Bookstagram | Blog
yearning was off the charts again
Bookstagram | Blog
Want to Read
August 10, 2025ive sold my soul to immy & theo - i need this book more than i need air
Currently Reading
May 20, 2026♡ pre-read ♡
So excited to see what becomes of Imogen and Theo!!
Thank you to Kalie Cassidy, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
So excited to see what becomes of Imogen and Theo!!
Thank you to Kalie Cassidy, Little, Brown and Company, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 18, 2026
Thank you to Little, Brown for the ARC. This was my most highly anticipated book of 2026. I read 𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘝𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 in a single day right after it was published, was immediately utterly obsessed, and recommended it to everyone I knew. The cliffhanger was insane and I couldn’t wait to find out what happened next.
𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘶𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 was the opposite. It took me five whole days to finish it because I literally kept falling asleep. Compared to the first book, this one is painfully dense. Part 1 was very difficult to trudge through. Part 2 was okay, but felt rushed. Part 3 held all the plot twists which I (unfortunately) could see from a mile away, but I had useless information fatigue wasn’t interested in the least.
Cassidy needs to trust that the readers can read between the lines, we don’t need everything spoon-fed to us– but that’s exactly what she does with this book. The unnecessary descriptions and world-building was what held the story back majorly. I don’t know if Cassidy wasn’t set on writing a second book, or if she was just rushed to pump this story out for the publisher, but (in my opinion) this book lacks true 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. There’s no other way I can describe it. I felt nothing reading this, which was shocking and disappointing because I don’t know of anyone else who wants to love this book more than myself. I hope constructive criticism can be taken and the book that is sent out into the world in July will be different than this.
𝘐𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘶𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 was the opposite. It took me five whole days to finish it because I literally kept falling asleep. Compared to the first book, this one is painfully dense. Part 1 was very difficult to trudge through. Part 2 was okay, but felt rushed. Part 3 held all the plot twists which I (unfortunately) could see from a mile away, but I had useless information fatigue wasn’t interested in the least.
Cassidy needs to trust that the readers can read between the lines, we don’t need everything spoon-fed to us– but that’s exactly what she does with this book. The unnecessary descriptions and world-building was what held the story back majorly. I don’t know if Cassidy wasn’t set on writing a second book, or if she was just rushed to pump this story out for the publisher, but (in my opinion) this book lacks true 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵. There’s no other way I can describe it. I felt nothing reading this, which was shocking and disappointing because I don’t know of anyone else who wants to love this book more than myself. I hope constructive criticism can be taken and the book that is sent out into the world in July will be different than this.
August 25, 2025
Just finished #1 in 48 hours, as I literally could not put it down. I need #2 like Eusia needs Imogen’s and Theo’s blood: ASAP!!! 😫🩸🧜♀️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4 stars
What a great way to end this duology! This was one of my most anticipated reads and it delivered!
I was completely entertained by this book and absolutely flew through it. I just ate it up. I love Imogen and Theodore so much, and the found family in this story is one of my favorite parts of the series.
And the yearning in this. Sigh. Theodore- the man that you are. This was some Pride and Prejudice/Bridgerton level yearning.
I also really loved that we got more of Lachlan in this book. He ended up being such a fun presence — almost comic relief at times — with his banter and personality, which added a really nice balance to the heavier moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed where the plot went and thought the ending wrapped things up in a satisfying way. The only reason this isn’t a full five stars for me is that some parts felt a little predictable, and I would have loved a couple more twists along the way.
I really loved this series and the duology as a whole. I’d definitely recommend it, and I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about these characters — especially Imogen and Theodore — for quite a while.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Little, Brown and Company for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review
What a great way to end this duology! This was one of my most anticipated reads and it delivered!
I was completely entertained by this book and absolutely flew through it. I just ate it up. I love Imogen and Theodore so much, and the found family in this story is one of my favorite parts of the series.
And the yearning in this. Sigh. Theodore- the man that you are. This was some Pride and Prejudice/Bridgerton level yearning.
I also really loved that we got more of Lachlan in this book. He ended up being such a fun presence — almost comic relief at times — with his banter and personality, which added a really nice balance to the heavier moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed where the plot went and thought the ending wrapped things up in a satisfying way. The only reason this isn’t a full five stars for me is that some parts felt a little predictable, and I would have loved a couple more twists along the way.
I really loved this series and the duology as a whole. I’d definitely recommend it, and I have a feeling I’ll be thinking about these characters — especially Imogen and Theodore — for quite a while.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher Little, Brown and Company for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review
March 12, 2026
I could not put this book down, yet I didn’t want it to end! I loved this story so much!!!
April 6, 2026
5 Stunning Stars!!!! ⭐️
I think we all need to take a moment to appreciate how Kalie gave us a tension filled Romance in book 1 and was STILL able to continue that into Book 2 without you feeling bored or over it already!!
This is a MASTERPIECE duology!! ❤️🔥❤️🔥
In book 2 the longing, the yearning and the tension intensifies to a top tier level while also having action and maintaining the point of the story!
I swear I didn’t want to finish this because I am not ready for this to be over.
Theo is a MMC that stole my heart in book 1 and then literally locked my heart up and threw away the key in book 2, he does not miss a beat!!!
I truly cannot recommend this duology enough, the vibes are immaculate, a perfect conclusion and Kalies writing is phenomenal!! I cannot wait for more ♥️🖤
I think we all need to take a moment to appreciate how Kalie gave us a tension filled Romance in book 1 and was STILL able to continue that into Book 2 without you feeling bored or over it already!!
This is a MASTERPIECE duology!! ❤️🔥❤️🔥
In book 2 the longing, the yearning and the tension intensifies to a top tier level while also having action and maintaining the point of the story!
I swear I didn’t want to finish this because I am not ready for this to be over.
Theo is a MMC that stole my heart in book 1 and then literally locked my heart up and threw away the key in book 2, he does not miss a beat!!!
I truly cannot recommend this duology enough, the vibes are immaculate, a perfect conclusion and Kalies writing is phenomenal!! I cannot wait for more ♥️🖤
April 2, 2026
4.25☆ “Love. You’re threaded through me like sinew. You’re the Godsdamned pulse in my chest. You think loving each other is the dark end of all things. Loving you is not the end, it’s the beginning of everything.”
We pick up right where we left off at the end of ‘In the Veins of the Drowning,’ and from page one, I was on the edge of my seat.
The unexpected partnership between Imogen and Lachlan was such a highlight. Lachlan stole the show —his humor added the perfect touch of comedic relief when everything else was tense and spiraling out of control.
And then there’s Theo… the perfect man. The ultimate yearner. Truly top-tier book boyfriend material. He had me blushing, giggling, and completely locked into the story. I’m honestly devastated he’s not real because I absolutely need him in my life.
That said, I think I enjoyed book one a little more. While I stayed invested in the story, there were moments where I found myself wishing for just a little ✨more✨ That’s ultimately why this wasn’t a full five star read for me.
The final 10% though? Pure chaos in the best way. I was stressed, heart racing, fully riding that adrenaline rush. And even though it was intense, the resolution delivered and I walked away feeling satisfied…although I definitely wouldn’t have complained about getting a little more Theo hehe.
Ty Tessa from Little Brown Co for sending me an e-arc!
We pick up right where we left off at the end of ‘In the Veins of the Drowning,’ and from page one, I was on the edge of my seat.
The unexpected partnership between Imogen and Lachlan was such a highlight. Lachlan stole the show —his humor added the perfect touch of comedic relief when everything else was tense and spiraling out of control.
And then there’s Theo… the perfect man. The ultimate yearner. Truly top-tier book boyfriend material. He had me blushing, giggling, and completely locked into the story. I’m honestly devastated he’s not real because I absolutely need him in my life.
That said, I think I enjoyed book one a little more. While I stayed invested in the story, there were moments where I found myself wishing for just a little ✨more✨ That’s ultimately why this wasn’t a full five star read for me.
The final 10% though? Pure chaos in the best way. I was stressed, heart racing, fully riding that adrenaline rush. And even though it was intense, the resolution delivered and I walked away feeling satisfied…although I definitely wouldn’t have complained about getting a little more Theo hehe.
Ty Tessa from Little Brown Co for sending me an e-arc!
Read
August 29, 2025WHO DO I NEED TO SACRIFICE FOR THIS BOOK. I am in dire need of Book #2 immediately.
Want to Read
August 27, 2025I will actually start weeping if I don’t get to know what happens next soon. My sweet angel baby Theo needs to fix everything okay? And Immy, girl I want you to go full Dianna Martinez but with, like, water and drown everyone okay? Okay.
March 15, 2026
This is the conclusion in the Siren Mage Duology. It is told in a dual POV between Imogen and Theodore. You can expect some top notch yearning. I was feeling pained just reading the longing between these two characters. They are faced with many challenges and torn between duty and desire. A few squeal worthy moments in this book to look forward to. I definitely think the romance was the highlight of the story for me. Although Imogen’s growth in this book as she learned to let herself be loved was also big for me.
This book didn't hold my attention as much as the first book. I enjoyed the first 30% but would’ve liked better pacing for the rest of the book. It just didn't wow me the way I was hoping it would unfortunately.
Overall I think this is a good duology if you're looking for a romantasy with unique magic, great yearning, sirens, and a darker story.
This book didn't hold my attention as much as the first book. I enjoyed the first 30% but would’ve liked better pacing for the rest of the book. It just didn't wow me the way I was hoping it would unfortunately.
Overall I think this is a good duology if you're looking for a romantasy with unique magic, great yearning, sirens, and a darker story.
April 8, 2026
Imogen & Theo 🌊💙😭
February 2, 2026
Oh Immy goes through a lot in this book! Reader, buckle up!
I have so so so many things to say about this wonderful book, please bear with me.
First of all, if ITVOTD was Theo’s and Immy’s love story, this book is about Immy learning to accept and love herself. It felt very cathartic for me, a woman in her 30s, to read this. Now obviously we all grow up at different paces, but it definitely took me to wait until I was in my 30s to learn to accept all that I am, and reading this book while going through the same experience as Immy felt divine. Indeed, how do we find accept and love ourselves as women, even the horrible parts we’re taught to silence and look away from? How do we own what we want, how dare we name it and accept it? It’s terrifying! Here’s a sentence I highlighted in the book: “As a girl, I’d done all that I could to survive. Denying myself, lying, hiding. Clipping away the parts of myself that were not acceptable, keeping myself pleasant and unassuming. I hadn’t let myself hope for anything more then, so as not to break my own heart.”
Second, I will reiterate what I had already said in my review of ITVOTD: calling this duology “romantasy” feels so reductive! Now don’t get me wrong, I love romantasy (I’m also aware that it is a genre that does not have very clear boundaries). BUT. Kalie Cassidy is a master at blending genres, and I genuinely have felt more like I was reading a mystery, gothic horror, book for most of the time then a romance (this is not to say that the romance isn’t spotless because it is, Theo is chef’s kiss).
Another thing that I absolutely loved about ITWOTR is that this book was as much about women’s rights as it was about women’s wrongs. The villain’s (and its accomplices’) anger feels righteous here (or at lease I couldn’t help but empathize); as such, it raises important points on justice, fairness, and how oppressive, unjust, systems can create monsters out of all of us; it’s about looking straight in the eyes the part inside of us that wants to lash out. Kalie Cassidy takes so much care here in depicting women in all their complexity and messiness: sure we’ve been raised (or socialized rather) to be “good”, but what happens when you get tired of that? What does it take to seek justice? And what is justice? I think a very important point made by the book is that seeking justice and revenge just for yourself is not the solution.
Which leads me to my next point: power is a very important topic in the book: “I knew the terror of powerlessness better than most. I knew what it was to crave the ability to exact some force over your own existence.” And obviously I couldn’t help but reflect on the narrative of “women’s empowerment”: we talk a lot of women’s empowerment, but as the book shows, when a woman is empowered, or tries to empower herself, what does it mean about the power she then gets? How do we handle power? What is power? Power over others? Or power in order to gain agency over one’s life? Who holds you accountable? I could go on and on. I think a lot of readers will reflect on this book in different ways, which makes it so exciting.
Any way, as you can tell, I feel like a whole essay could be written about this. Kalie Cassidy wrote a book that feels incredibly romantic, poignant, and still makes very incisive commentary on important current political topics.
Thank you so much Kalie for the ARC!
I have so so so many things to say about this wonderful book, please bear with me.
First of all, if ITVOTD was Theo’s and Immy’s love story, this book is about Immy learning to accept and love herself. It felt very cathartic for me, a woman in her 30s, to read this. Now obviously we all grow up at different paces, but it definitely took me to wait until I was in my 30s to learn to accept all that I am, and reading this book while going through the same experience as Immy felt divine. Indeed, how do we find accept and love ourselves as women, even the horrible parts we’re taught to silence and look away from? How do we own what we want, how dare we name it and accept it? It’s terrifying! Here’s a sentence I highlighted in the book: “As a girl, I’d done all that I could to survive. Denying myself, lying, hiding. Clipping away the parts of myself that were not acceptable, keeping myself pleasant and unassuming. I hadn’t let myself hope for anything more then, so as not to break my own heart.”
Second, I will reiterate what I had already said in my review of ITVOTD: calling this duology “romantasy” feels so reductive! Now don’t get me wrong, I love romantasy (I’m also aware that it is a genre that does not have very clear boundaries). BUT. Kalie Cassidy is a master at blending genres, and I genuinely have felt more like I was reading a mystery, gothic horror, book for most of the time then a romance (this is not to say that the romance isn’t spotless because it is, Theo is chef’s kiss).
Another thing that I absolutely loved about ITWOTR is that this book was as much about women’s rights as it was about women’s wrongs. The villain’s (and its accomplices’) anger feels righteous here (or at lease I couldn’t help but empathize); as such, it raises important points on justice, fairness, and how oppressive, unjust, systems can create monsters out of all of us; it’s about looking straight in the eyes the part inside of us that wants to lash out. Kalie Cassidy takes so much care here in depicting women in all their complexity and messiness: sure we’ve been raised (or socialized rather) to be “good”, but what happens when you get tired of that? What does it take to seek justice? And what is justice? I think a very important point made by the book is that seeking justice and revenge just for yourself is not the solution.
Which leads me to my next point: power is a very important topic in the book: “I knew the terror of powerlessness better than most. I knew what it was to crave the ability to exact some force over your own existence.” And obviously I couldn’t help but reflect on the narrative of “women’s empowerment”: we talk a lot of women’s empowerment, but as the book shows, when a woman is empowered, or tries to empower herself, what does it mean about the power she then gets? How do we handle power? What is power? Power over others? Or power in order to gain agency over one’s life? Who holds you accountable? I could go on and on. I think a lot of readers will reflect on this book in different ways, which makes it so exciting.
Any way, as you can tell, I feel like a whole essay could be written about this. Kalie Cassidy wrote a book that feels incredibly romantic, poignant, and still makes very incisive commentary on important current political topics.
Thank you so much Kalie for the ARC!
May 23, 2026
Book one was good, but book two really showed up to the fight. Kalie Cassidy expands on the world we were introduced to in book one, In the Veins of the Drowning, and uses her dark, atmospheric style to lull us into the depths of this story. Told through two POVs, we get to experience both Imogen and Theo’s journeys. There is a path forward, but they are continuously thwarted by forces outside of their control.
I loved watching Imogen come into her own in this book. Her character arc delighted me. She is smart and tenacious, and her draw to Theo kept me guessing where her loyalties would end up. As Imogen learns more about herself and her background, it is easy to understand why she feels torn in different directions.
The side characters in this book made me batty. I wanted to shake them and scream at them to just let Imogen and Theo do what they needed to do instead of CONSTANTLY getting in their way. Unfortunately, the characters could not hear me, and I was stuck being annoyed and fretful because of them for a large portion of this story.
This was a delightful conclusion to the duology, and I was lured into the depths of the story by its siren’s song. At the end of any series, I am always left curious about what the author will give us next. This was such an interesting take on the romantasy genre that I know whatever comes next will surprise and enrapture us.
Thank you so much to Little, Brown and Company for the opportunity to read and review this book as an e-ARC.
I loved watching Imogen come into her own in this book. Her character arc delighted me. She is smart and tenacious, and her draw to Theo kept me guessing where her loyalties would end up. As Imogen learns more about herself and her background, it is easy to understand why she feels torn in different directions.
The side characters in this book made me batty. I wanted to shake them and scream at them to just let Imogen and Theo do what they needed to do instead of CONSTANTLY getting in their way. Unfortunately, the characters could not hear me, and I was stuck being annoyed and fretful because of them for a large portion of this story.
This was a delightful conclusion to the duology, and I was lured into the depths of the story by its siren’s song. At the end of any series, I am always left curious about what the author will give us next. This was such an interesting take on the romantasy genre that I know whatever comes next will surprise and enrapture us.
Thank you so much to Little, Brown and Company for the opportunity to read and review this book as an e-ARC.
December 10, 2025
HELP IM STILL AT THE RESTAURANT
April 25, 2026
Hm, I have mixed feelings about this one. I’d put it at 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I was so excited to read In the Wake of the Ruined this year. It delivered on the same lush, atmospheric vibes I loved in In the Veins of the Drowning. And it was full of adventure… but lacked heart.
I was never as emotionally invested. I wanted so badly to love it, so I really took a beat to figure out what was missing for me.
We’re told the stakes are high in book 2, but it largely felt like a drawn-out face-off between Imogen and Eusia, as opposed to our FMC trying to save anyone outside of her inner circle.
Maybe we needed more sirens? There was no shortage of time in a ship on the water, so there could be an opportunity to work them in to add weight, depth, and lore.
I really enjoyed Halla’s storyline. Her history added layers, and I am left wondering where her story goes after the final chapter.
Also satisfying: Imogen’s quiet HEA. It felt like a fitting end for her character.
Overall, I enjoyed In the Wake of the Ruined. I just wanted more!
Thanks to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
I was so excited to read In the Wake of the Ruined this year. It delivered on the same lush, atmospheric vibes I loved in In the Veins of the Drowning. And it was full of adventure… but lacked heart.
I was never as emotionally invested. I wanted so badly to love it, so I really took a beat to figure out what was missing for me.
We’re told the stakes are high in book 2, but it largely felt like a drawn-out face-off between Imogen and Eusia, as opposed to our FMC trying to save anyone outside of her inner circle.
Maybe we needed more sirens? There was no shortage of time in a ship on the water, so there could be an opportunity to work them in to add weight, depth, and lore.
I really enjoyed Halla’s storyline. Her history added layers, and I am left wondering where her story goes after the final chapter.
Also satisfying: Imogen’s quiet HEA. It felt like a fitting end for her character.
Overall, I enjoyed In the Wake of the Ruined. I just wanted more!
Thanks to Little, Brown and Company and NetGalley for the e-ARC! All opinions are my own.
Want to Read
November 12, 2025WE HAVE A COVER AND IT'S GLOOOOOOOOORIOUS AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH
THANK YOU ALINE
THANK YOU ALINE
tbr
September 7, 2025Where's the release date???
Want to Read
September 16, 2025I'M JUST FINDING OUT WE HAVE A TITLE FOR THIS?!
January 15, 2026
Kalie Cassidy is That Girl. Formal review TK — just finished and need to gather my thoughts (spoiler alert: lots of excited screaming)
April 11, 2026
Theodore, respectfully, I wouldn’t be mad at anything you do. BURY ME WITH THAT MAN.
Everyone loves talking about the absolute yearning man that is Theo, and I do too, but we also got to talk about Kalie’s beautiful, beautiful writing. Oh my god I love her writing. Dark secrets, lush prose, and gritty metaphors. It’s like being controlled by the ebb and flow of the tides, the danger receding for long enough for you to feel safe, only for it to come back stronger in full force. I don’t think I could ever fully encompass her writing so you’ll just have to read to experience its loveliness.
Imogen deserves the whole world. She’s gone through tribulations no one should ever go through. We see her lose all hope. We see her diminish her worth. We see her want nothing but the absolute best for her loved ones even if it means the cost of her own suffering. While she can be stubborn, she doesn’t play around with their happiness. I love her.
We get to see the world expand in this sequel. It’s vile out there, and you can’t really trust anyone. While Imogen tries to push him away, Theo is the only thing sustaining her. If you thought the longing in book 1 was torture, wait till you read this. I can’t be specific without spoiling book 1, but just know their relationship has higher stakes in this one. I had to keep looking at the invisible ghost in my room with my jaw on the floor every time they interacted. I basically have this whole book highlighted. It hurts when they aren’t near.
Don’t get me started on the epilogue please. I might combust. Theo and Imogen deserve the world, and I wish them eternal happiness.
Everyone loves talking about the absolute yearning man that is Theo, and I do too, but we also got to talk about Kalie’s beautiful, beautiful writing. Oh my god I love her writing. Dark secrets, lush prose, and gritty metaphors. It’s like being controlled by the ebb and flow of the tides, the danger receding for long enough for you to feel safe, only for it to come back stronger in full force. I don’t think I could ever fully encompass her writing so you’ll just have to read to experience its loveliness.
Imogen deserves the whole world. She’s gone through tribulations no one should ever go through. We see her lose all hope. We see her diminish her worth. We see her want nothing but the absolute best for her loved ones even if it means the cost of her own suffering. While she can be stubborn, she doesn’t play around with their happiness. I love her.
We get to see the world expand in this sequel. It’s vile out there, and you can’t really trust anyone. While Imogen tries to push him away, Theo is the only thing sustaining her. If you thought the longing in book 1 was torture, wait till you read this. I can’t be specific without spoiling book 1, but just know their relationship has higher stakes in this one. I had to keep looking at the invisible ghost in my room with my jaw on the floor every time they interacted. I basically have this whole book highlighted. It hurts when they aren’t near.
Don’t get me started on the epilogue please. I might combust. Theo and Imogen deserve the world, and I wish them eternal happiness.
March 3, 2026
You know when you read a book and it leaves a mark on you? The kind that lingers quietly long after you turn the last page. The kind of story you ache to return to — to the world the author breathed into existence.
That’s what In the Veins of the Drowning was for me. I carried it with me. I thought about it at random moments. I missed it.
So when I finally picked up In the Wake of the Ruined, my expectations were impossibly high.
And somehow… it met them.
It stood strong against its predecessor — not overshadowed by it, not chasing it — but walking beside it. Seamlessly continuing a story I was completely captivated by, while deepening it in ways that felt intentional and earned. That kind of balance is rare, and Kalie Cassidy achieved it beautifully.
I fell in love with Immy (easily one of my favorite FMCs ever) and Theo all over again. But where ITVOD felt like their love story, this book felt like something quieter and braver — Imogen learning to love herself. Watching that unfold was deeply moving.
This duology feels like a triumphant debut. It honestly amazes me that these are Kalie Cassidy’s first books. The care, the talent, the devotion to craft — it’s all there, woven into every page.
I cannot wait to see what she writes next.
And I hope she allows herself to sit in this — in the fact that she created something that lingers. This story will stay with me for a long, long time, and I can’t wait for you all to experience it, too.
That’s what In the Veins of the Drowning was for me. I carried it with me. I thought about it at random moments. I missed it.
So when I finally picked up In the Wake of the Ruined, my expectations were impossibly high.
And somehow… it met them.
It stood strong against its predecessor — not overshadowed by it, not chasing it — but walking beside it. Seamlessly continuing a story I was completely captivated by, while deepening it in ways that felt intentional and earned. That kind of balance is rare, and Kalie Cassidy achieved it beautifully.
I fell in love with Immy (easily one of my favorite FMCs ever) and Theo all over again. But where ITVOD felt like their love story, this book felt like something quieter and braver — Imogen learning to love herself. Watching that unfold was deeply moving.
This duology feels like a triumphant debut. It honestly amazes me that these are Kalie Cassidy’s first books. The care, the talent, the devotion to craft — it’s all there, woven into every page.
I cannot wait to see what she writes next.
And I hope she allows herself to sit in this — in the fact that she created something that lingers. This story will stay with me for a long, long time, and I can’t wait for you all to experience it, too.
May 5, 2026
ARC REVIEW
I had the honor of receiving an ARC at NYC BookCon. I read ITVOTD (book 1) in Fall 2025 for book club and immediately fell in love with the characters, the dark, gothic world and magic system, the romance, banter, and plot. The cliff hanger at the end sent me over the edge! I needed book 2 ASAP!
ITWOTR most definitely delivered! This book is more dense than book 1, but it is easy to follow and all the feelings I had while reading book 1 came flooding back. The relationship between Theo and Imogen (or as Theo calls her, Immy) is beautiful, intimate, and devastating all at the same time. I felt my heart breaking and healing over and over again throughout the book and the yearning and flirting had me blushing!
Book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off. Trust is broken, bonds are severed, and all hope for a HEA seems lost as Immy strives to complete her mission from book 1 of "Kill Eusia. Find Agatha. Keep Theo safe." Book 2 is full of action, character growth, plot twists, dark magic, romance, yearning, and duty vs desire. Kalie does a great job writing the pace, story development, spice (🌶️🌶️), and scene descriptions. This is a completed duology, but I wouldn't be mad, Kalie, if you wrote a third book in this world. If you like authors such as Rachel Gillig or LJ Andrews, I absolutely recommend reading the Siren Mage duology!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to review ITWOTR. I hope to have the pleasure of reviewing more of Kalie Cassidy's books in the future!
I had the honor of receiving an ARC at NYC BookCon. I read ITVOTD (book 1) in Fall 2025 for book club and immediately fell in love with the characters, the dark, gothic world and magic system, the romance, banter, and plot. The cliff hanger at the end sent me over the edge! I needed book 2 ASAP!
ITWOTR most definitely delivered! This book is more dense than book 1, but it is easy to follow and all the feelings I had while reading book 1 came flooding back. The relationship between Theo and Imogen (or as Theo calls her, Immy) is beautiful, intimate, and devastating all at the same time. I felt my heart breaking and healing over and over again throughout the book and the yearning and flirting had me blushing!
Book 2 picks up right where book 1 left off. Trust is broken, bonds are severed, and all hope for a HEA seems lost as Immy strives to complete her mission from book 1 of "Kill Eusia. Find Agatha. Keep Theo safe." Book 2 is full of action, character growth, plot twists, dark magic, romance, yearning, and duty vs desire. Kalie does a great job writing the pace, story development, spice (🌶️🌶️), and scene descriptions. This is a completed duology, but I wouldn't be mad, Kalie, if you wrote a third book in this world. If you like authors such as Rachel Gillig or LJ Andrews, I absolutely recommend reading the Siren Mage duology!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to review ITWOTR. I hope to have the pleasure of reviewing more of Kalie Cassidy's books in the future!
March 18, 2026
In the Wake of the Ruined was one of my most anticipated novels of 2026 and I am so grateful for the opportunity to have read the e-ARC. First and foremost, this novel and In the Veins of the Drowning are a complete masterpiece of a duology. I was worried going into it that two books would not be enough to complete Imogen’s story, however those worries were completely abated. And although I would definitely continue to read the series if Kalie Cassidy were to write additional books, I feel that the two novels together are picture perfect in their completeness.
Kalie’s writing style is beautiful and impactful without being overly flowery or hard to follow. There would be phrases that I would come across and would re-read several times simply because they were so wonderfully written. She also created such a strong yet sensitive character with Imogen and Teddy is the perfect complement for her. The burning passion and love that they have for each other is so palpable that you could feel it off of the pages. I was also excited to see how Agatha and Lachlan’s relationship would develop as we neared the end of the story.
I will admit that as I got to the last 5% of the book, I did not want to keep reading so I could pretend we were not coming to the conclusion of the story, but the epilogue truly was everything Imogen deserved at the end of her journey. I cannot wait to see what world Kalie Cassidy takes us to next and am so excited for everyone else to read this book!
Kalie’s writing style is beautiful and impactful without being overly flowery or hard to follow. There would be phrases that I would come across and would re-read several times simply because they were so wonderfully written. She also created such a strong yet sensitive character with Imogen and Teddy is the perfect complement for her. The burning passion and love that they have for each other is so palpable that you could feel it off of the pages. I was also excited to see how Agatha and Lachlan’s relationship would develop as we neared the end of the story.
I will admit that as I got to the last 5% of the book, I did not want to keep reading so I could pretend we were not coming to the conclusion of the story, but the epilogue truly was everything Imogen deserved at the end of her journey. I cannot wait to see what world Kalie Cassidy takes us to next and am so excited for everyone else to read this book!
April 4, 2026
4.5⭐️, 2.5🌶️
What a great second book! I love this series as a whole and she is def an auto-buy author for me now!
We jump back into the plot right where we left off in book 2 and so we were action packed from the jump. There were a few times I felt like the plot was slowing down, but I feel like the romance made up for it during those times and vice versa. With that being said this definitely is a true fantasy romance where the romance is at the front of the story, but this did not mean the plot was lacking at all in my opinion.
Of course the chemistry between our characters was there just like in the first book and I love how down bad my man Theo is 😍 he had some one liners in here I absolutely highlighted on my kindle, and he is def on my top book BF list. However the only complaint that I have is that I feel like his devotion for Imogen made him lose his personality just a little bit and I do feel like his sole purpose in the story was to be there for Imogen. Also I don’t want to spoil anything, but I did not loveeeee the way things went down between his betrothed😭 I do however really love the side characters Lachlan and Agatha and their love story as well. I would loveeee to read a novella about them!
Overall this is a 5⭐️ series for me as a whole and I loved all of the siren/sea vibes of this series!
What a great second book! I love this series as a whole and she is def an auto-buy author for me now!
We jump back into the plot right where we left off in book 2 and so we were action packed from the jump. There were a few times I felt like the plot was slowing down, but I feel like the romance made up for it during those times and vice versa. With that being said this definitely is a true fantasy romance where the romance is at the front of the story, but this did not mean the plot was lacking at all in my opinion.
Of course the chemistry between our characters was there just like in the first book and I love how down bad my man Theo is 😍 he had some one liners in here I absolutely highlighted on my kindle, and he is def on my top book BF list. However the only complaint that I have is that I feel like his devotion for Imogen made him lose his personality just a little bit and I do feel like his sole purpose in the story was to be there for Imogen. Also I don’t want to spoil anything, but I did not loveeeee the way things went down between his betrothed😭 I do however really love the side characters Lachlan and Agatha and their love story as well. I would loveeee to read a novella about them!
Overall this is a 5⭐️ series for me as a whole and I loved all of the siren/sea vibes of this series!
March 18, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown & Co for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the Wake of the Ruin was one of my most anticipated releases after reading In the Veins of the Drowning, and it truly did not disappoint.
The writing is absolutely beautiful and the magic system feels completely unique. It’s rare to come across a world that feels this distinct and I was fully immersed from start to finish. The atmosphere, character dynamics, and emotional depth are all incredibly strong.
I’m a certified yearnaholic and ITWOTR delivered in that aspect. Just like in ITVOTD the yearning between Imogen and Theodore was truly otherworldly. There were moments I was genuinely like, “PLEASE JUST LET THEM KISS 😭” because the tension was that well done.
Overall, I loved this and would absolutely recommend the series, especially to readers who enjoy lyrical writing, rich worldbuilding, and deeply emotional character arcs.
If I had one small note, it’s that I personally connected a bit more with the first book. But this was still a very strong continuation of the story, and I’m so glad I read it.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown & Co for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
In the Wake of the Ruin was one of my most anticipated releases after reading In the Veins of the Drowning, and it truly did not disappoint.
The writing is absolutely beautiful and the magic system feels completely unique. It’s rare to come across a world that feels this distinct and I was fully immersed from start to finish. The atmosphere, character dynamics, and emotional depth are all incredibly strong.
I’m a certified yearnaholic and ITWOTR delivered in that aspect. Just like in ITVOTD the yearning between Imogen and Theodore was truly otherworldly. There were moments I was genuinely like, “PLEASE JUST LET THEM KISS 😭” because the tension was that well done.
Overall, I loved this and would absolutely recommend the series, especially to readers who enjoy lyrical writing, rich worldbuilding, and deeply emotional character arcs.
If I had one small note, it’s that I personally connected a bit more with the first book. But this was still a very strong continuation of the story, and I’m so glad I read it.
April 22, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Little Brown and the author for an early copy of this!
This was one of my most anticipated releases for 2026, and it did not disappoint! It was a satisfying conclusion for this duology. Things were well wrapped up and gave us a good amount of closure - the epilogue was so wholesome!
Theo is truly the king of yearning - mister Darcy level 👏
The found family was so heart warming. I enjoyed getting to know the side characters more and they added comic relief and stability to the main characters.
Imogen is a bad ass, but we already knew that
The plot was over all great, but it was slow at points- unlike book 1 that had no lulls. I wish something’s were shortened and other parts were further fledged out. But overall, it kept me grasped
This was one of my most anticipated releases for 2026, and it did not disappoint! It was a satisfying conclusion for this duology. Things were well wrapped up and gave us a good amount of closure - the epilogue was so wholesome!
Theo is truly the king of yearning - mister Darcy level 👏
The found family was so heart warming. I enjoyed getting to know the side characters more and they added comic relief and stability to the main characters.
Imogen is a bad ass, but we already knew that
The plot was over all great, but it was slow at points- unlike book 1 that had no lulls. I wish something’s were shortened and other parts were further fledged out. But overall, it kept me grasped
April 2, 2026
Thank you (so much) NetGalley & Little, Brown and Company for this ARC.
4.5
THIS IS A DUOLOGY?? ITS OVER?? But WHY??? (no but it ended perfectly im just upset bc i want MORE)
I really enjoyed the first one and the second did not disappoint. First of all: yay to the inclusion of a map omg. Helped so much.
Also,,, Theo and Imogen,,, my fully developed frontal lobes icons,,, it is so refreshing to read about ADULTS!! Love how they are 26 & 28. The tension in this blew me away and also I believed in them as a couple!!
The ending is so satisfying and just makes sense. Will forever love how angry, bloodthirsty and conniving Imogen is. Will miss her as a main character. She was a bad ass.
4.5
THIS IS A DUOLOGY?? ITS OVER?? But WHY??? (no but it ended perfectly im just upset bc i want MORE)
I really enjoyed the first one and the second did not disappoint. First of all: yay to the inclusion of a map omg. Helped so much.
Also,,, Theo and Imogen,,, my fully developed frontal lobes icons,,, it is so refreshing to read about ADULTS!! Love how they are 26 & 28. The tension in this blew me away and also I believed in them as a couple!!
The ending is so satisfying and just makes sense. Will forever love how angry, bloodthirsty and conniving Imogen is. Will miss her as a main character. She was a bad ass.
March 16, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and Kalie Cassidy for sending me an early copy in exchange for my honest opinion!
In The Wake of the Ruined is the 2nd book in The Siren Mage duology. This book picks right back up from when In the Veins of the Drowning ended. We continue to follow Imogen as she grapples with the weight of her new crown and the dark power that comes with it. Having survived the trials of the first book, she must now lead her people while facing an ancient, malevolent force that threatens to consume her mind and magic.
I don't want to say much because I don't want to spoil anything. If you loved book 1, you are going to love book 2. In the Wake of the Ruined is an evocative, beautifully bruised journey. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve closed the final page, leaving you feeling a little bit ruined yourself—in the best way possible. As soon as I picked this book up, I couldn't put it down. Kalie Cassidy's writing is so lyrical and beautiful, and this duology has become one of my god-tier books of all time. If you haven't read In the Veins of the Drowning, PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU (on my hands & knees) to stop what you are reading and read it! I can't wait to see what Kalie Cassidy writes next, I will most definitely be reading anything and everything that she writes.
In The Wake of the Ruined is the 2nd book in The Siren Mage duology. This book picks right back up from when In the Veins of the Drowning ended. We continue to follow Imogen as she grapples with the weight of her new crown and the dark power that comes with it. Having survived the trials of the first book, she must now lead her people while facing an ancient, malevolent force that threatens to consume her mind and magic.
I don't want to say much because I don't want to spoil anything. If you loved book 1, you are going to love book 2. In the Wake of the Ruined is an evocative, beautifully bruised journey. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you’ve closed the final page, leaving you feeling a little bit ruined yourself—in the best way possible. As soon as I picked this book up, I couldn't put it down. Kalie Cassidy's writing is so lyrical and beautiful, and this duology has become one of my god-tier books of all time. If you haven't read In the Veins of the Drowning, PLEASE I'M BEGGING YOU (on my hands & knees) to stop what you are reading and read it! I can't wait to see what Kalie Cassidy writes next, I will most definitely be reading anything and everything that she writes.
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