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Crescent Born: Crescent Truine Book 1
Lyra never thought a scholarship to the prestigious Crucible Academy would change her life, until the shadows answered her call. The deeper she trains, the more the darkness inside her stirs… and the more she begins to understand she isn’t human at all. She tries to hide her awakening power as she searches for the truth of who she is, but the commander is watching, and the king is closing in. Kael was forged from those same shadows, dangerous, disciplined, and sworn to teach her control. Talon is his second-in-command, the protector who would die before letting the king take her. When Lyra’s power threatens to expose what she truly is, desire and loyalty collide. If the king comes for her, will she surrender to save her bondeds, or will they fight to the death?
Crescent Born is Book One in the Crescent Triune series, a dark Fae academy romantasy
slow-burn, why-choose romance (one heroine, two love interests)
magic training
found family, deadly rivals, and morally gray Fae
high stakes, emotional damage, and a cliffhanger ending
Perfect for readers who love fierce heroines, obsessive bonds, mind-link lovers' quarrel, and fantasy worlds where the monsters are sometimes the ones you fall for.
Crescent Born is Book One in the Crescent Triune series, a dark Fae academy romantasy
slow-burn, why-choose romance (one heroine, two love interests)
magic training
found family, deadly rivals, and morally gray Fae
high stakes, emotional damage, and a cliffhanger ending
Perfect for readers who love fierce heroines, obsessive bonds, mind-link lovers' quarrel, and fantasy worlds where the monsters are sometimes the ones you fall for.
424 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 13, 2025
About the author
Reese Wilder
8 books38 followersReese Wilder is an indie author of romantasy and dark romance, known for emotionally instense stories that blend fate, power, and morally complex characters. Her work explores the spaces where love collides with darkness, loyalty is tested, and survival demands transformation.
When she's not writing, Reese can usually be found building new worlds, connecting with readers online, reading a good book, or spending time with her five kids and husband.
contact: authorreesewilder@gmail.com
When she's not writing, Reese can usually be found building new worlds, connecting with readers online, reading a good book, or spending time with her five kids and husband.
contact: authorreesewilder@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 20, 2026
Just finished Crescent Born by Reese and I’m honestly so impressed.
This book had me hooked every time I picked it up—I never wanted to put it down. The character relationships were beautifully written, especially the connection between the FMC and the two MMCs. It all felt so natural and genuine as their relationship developed.
The story follows an FMC who has always believed she was human, living in a world surrounded by Fae. Everything changes when she enters Crucible Academy and begins unlocking powers she never knew she had. Suddenly, she’s thrown into a new world where she has to learn control, all while being surrounded by others who have had years of experience.
The character growth, the magic system, and the emotional depth really stood out to me. And that ending… the cliffhanger left me wanting more immediately.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
This book had me hooked every time I picked it up—I never wanted to put it down. The character relationships were beautifully written, especially the connection between the FMC and the two MMCs. It all felt so natural and genuine as their relationship developed.
The story follows an FMC who has always believed she was human, living in a world surrounded by Fae. Everything changes when she enters Crucible Academy and begins unlocking powers she never knew she had. Suddenly, she’s thrown into a new world where she has to learn control, all while being surrounded by others who have had years of experience.
The character growth, the magic system, and the emotional depth really stood out to me. And that ending… the cliffhanger left me wanting more immediately.
I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
April 14, 2026
Epic begining to the Triune story
I am in awe of Lyra a new girl at school at the " Crucible Academy " . she has been training to defend herself since age 12 . First year at the academy and already she is getting into way more than learning among the strong FAE. Once she crosses the threshhold of the school she feels power she never knew awaken and she locks eyes with a dark haired gorgeous guy . It gets crazier as the story goes along she finds herself Falling for a strong shaddow weilder and makes great friends along the way . She is learning to control her powers and some hidden secrets about her parents past and her true liniage kept from her with the help of her friends . Lyra learns not all at the academy are allies and some are out to get her . Talon and Kael The head of the batallion and his second , fighters at the school are meant to aid her in more ways than one . You must read to see how they unite together to form a Triune an ancient grouping . It is action packed and very hot in the spice department . Can't wait for book 2 !
I am in awe of Lyra a new girl at school at the " Crucible Academy " . she has been training to defend herself since age 12 . First year at the academy and already she is getting into way more than learning among the strong FAE. Once she crosses the threshhold of the school she feels power she never knew awaken and she locks eyes with a dark haired gorgeous guy . It gets crazier as the story goes along she finds herself Falling for a strong shaddow weilder and makes great friends along the way . She is learning to control her powers and some hidden secrets about her parents past and her true liniage kept from her with the help of her friends . Lyra learns not all at the academy are allies and some are out to get her . Talon and Kael The head of the batallion and his second , fighters at the school are meant to aid her in more ways than one . You must read to see how they unite together to form a Triune an ancient grouping . It is action packed and very hot in the spice department . Can't wait for book 2 !
May 15, 2026
OMG this book seriously has everything! If you love why choose, found family, fated mates, dark academia, and secrets then this is the book for you!
Our FMC Lyra is a new girl at school at the "Crucible Academy”. Before she started attending school she has been training to defend herself since she was 12 years old. She was always taught that the fae were horrible and to never trust them but once she crosses the threshhold of the school she feels power she never known, awaken and she locks eyes with a dark haired gorgeous guy.
Kael and Talon are our amazing MMC. They have been best friends for years. Kael ends up feeling a connection. To Lyra right away and comes to find out they are mates. There is so much more that happens and Lyra ends up making amazing friendships that turn into her family!
Listen there is spice, action, and so much more!! I recommend reading this amazing book!!
Our FMC Lyra is a new girl at school at the "Crucible Academy”. Before she started attending school she has been training to defend herself since she was 12 years old. She was always taught that the fae were horrible and to never trust them but once she crosses the threshhold of the school she feels power she never known, awaken and she locks eyes with a dark haired gorgeous guy.
Kael and Talon are our amazing MMC. They have been best friends for years. Kael ends up feeling a connection. To Lyra right away and comes to find out they are mates. There is so much more that happens and Lyra ends up making amazing friendships that turn into her family!
Listen there is spice, action, and so much more!! I recommend reading this amazing book!!
April 15, 2026
SLOOOOW Burn turned into 5 alarm Fire.
I read this book because I was given the opportunity to be a ARC reader for another of Reese Wilder's books and wanted to get to know the authors style. THE HEAT 🥵 IN THIS BOOK COMES late affording the development of the characters. I can't wait to read the sequel.
I read this book because I was given the opportunity to be a ARC reader for another of Reese Wilder's books and wanted to get to know the authors style. THE HEAT 🥵 IN THIS BOOK COMES late affording the development of the characters. I can't wait to read the sequel.
March 23, 2026
Loved every minute of this book
I really couldn't put this book down and everytime I had to, I was thinking about it. The way you get attached to each character is crazy. All the ups and downs and things I didn't see coming were so wonderful. I wasn't ready for it to end and I definitely can't wait for book 2!! Loved loved this book.
I really couldn't put this book down and everytime I had to, I was thinking about it. The way you get attached to each character is crazy. All the ups and downs and things I didn't see coming were so wonderful. I wasn't ready for it to end and I definitely can't wait for book 2!! Loved loved this book.
March 13, 2026
Absolutely amazing!!
The chemistry, the friendship dynamic, the banter. IT’S SO GOOD! I’ll be back to write a more in depth review.
Still reeling after the cliffhanger!!
The chemistry, the friendship dynamic, the banter. IT’S SO GOOD! I’ll be back to write a more in depth review.
Still reeling after the cliffhanger!!
March 5, 2026
Crescent Born: A Dark Fantasy That Leaves You Wanting More
I really enjoyed Crescent Born by Reese Wilder. The story pulled me in right away with its dark, mysterious vibe and a main character who slowly learns that her past and identity are tied to something much bigger than she expected. I stayed interested the whole time because there was always something happening.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the romance. I liked how it developed slowly and naturally instead of feeling rushed. The relationship added emotional depth to the story and made the characters’ choices feel more important.
The ending really stood out to me because it ended on a cliffhanger that made me want to immediately read the next book. Overall, Crescent Born was a fun and engaging read, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy with a bit of romance and an ending that leaves you wanting more.
I really enjoyed Crescent Born by Reese Wilder. The story pulled me in right away with its dark, mysterious vibe and a main character who slowly learns that her past and identity are tied to something much bigger than she expected. I stayed interested the whole time because there was always something happening.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the romance. I liked how it developed slowly and naturally instead of feeling rushed. The relationship added emotional depth to the story and made the characters’ choices feel more important.
The ending really stood out to me because it ended on a cliffhanger that made me want to immediately read the next book. Overall, Crescent Born was a fun and engaging read, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys dark fantasy with a bit of romance and an ending that leaves you wanting more.
December 10, 2025
Loved this book and ready for the next one! Loved the magic world building and the character development. VERY fast paced so you don’t get bored whatsoever, the plot just keeps going! Excited for the next book!
November 19, 2025
LOVE
This was such an amazing read! The characters, the turns, the tension and build up. HOWEVER! I never thought I’d be jealous of MC but here I am. Looking at you, Lyra.
This was such an amazing read! The characters, the turns, the tension and build up. HOWEVER! I never thought I’d be jealous of MC but here I am. Looking at you, Lyra.
May 7, 2026
"Crescent Born is an absolute triumph! This book masterfully blends forbidden romance, academy life, 'why choose' dynamics, found family, and morally gray characters into a dark Fae romantasy that had me hooked from the first page. Lyra's journey at Crucible Academy is fraught with danger and secrets, and the slow-burn romance is *chef's kiss*—the payoff is unforgettable!
Lyra thought she was human until she stepped through the barrier of the academy and her powers started to come fourth. She was raised by her Grandmother and her powers were kept hidden from her for her own protection.
Lyra's character is captivating as she navigates her newfound powers and uncovers hidden truths about her lineage. The relationships she forms, especially with Talon and Kael, are complex and sizzling. The action is non-stop, and the spice level? Off the charts!
Seriously, I was insanely jealous of Lyra during *that* scene in chapter 93! The cliffhanger ending has me dying for book two. If you love fierce heroines, obsessive bonds, and fantasy worlds where the monsters are the ones you fall for, READ THIS BOOK!"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2026
I swear, this was an amazing blend of all of the things I love in a Romantasy: forbidden romance, academia, why choose, found family, and morally grey characters. Secrets are uncovered, danger is lurking around every corner, and shadows are way more powerful than you would expect at Crucible Academy. The slow burn is delicious and the heat that rises when it hits, is unforgettable! I’m so freaking glad that I read this to prep for the next book’s release, because that cliffhanger…
May 13, 2026
Immersive experience from start to end.
Im must applaud the book's technical strengths. I was impressed by the figurative language and powerful descriptions.
The story is cozy at times, and the "found family" vibes are richly satisfying.
I adored the violent love depicted in this book and it is a bond I will forever treasure in my heart :)
Im must applaud the book's technical strengths. I was impressed by the figurative language and powerful descriptions.
The story is cozy at times, and the "found family" vibes are richly satisfying.
I adored the violent love depicted in this book and it is a bond I will forever treasure in my heart :)
May 21, 2026
surprised to say the least
I have become a huge fan of all of Reese’s books so far. This one can be added to the list of favorites. I loved it. The story surprised me, I didn’t know what to expect from this story based on the information I had but it held my fascination from beginning to end!!! Can’t wait to read book 2 and find out what happens to the characters!!!
I have become a huge fan of all of Reese’s books so far. This one can be added to the list of favorites. I loved it. The story surprised me, I didn’t know what to expect from this story based on the information I had but it held my fascination from beginning to end!!! Can’t wait to read book 2 and find out what happens to the characters!!!
May 30, 2026
So ooo good
Actually romantic engaging and exciting. Character, strong female who shows vulnerability and compassion while maintaining her strength. Loved this journey and was in love with the plot points.
Actually romantic engaging and exciting. Character, strong female who shows vulnerability and compassion while maintaining her strength. Loved this journey and was in love with the plot points.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews