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War & Lies
A slow-dark fantasy, and tragic love story, with demons, vampires, wolf shifters and more
Is Atalan truly such a savage place?
With a broken heart, Kiraly is swept from Earth and thrust into Atalan, a world where vampires, demons, and wolf shifters exist. Until she can find a warlock to send her home, she must remain with the Alliance as they prepare for war against demons.
When a stranger targets Kiraly, she begins training with the wolves for protection. But after being struck down in combat, she discovers her wounds heal with impossible speed. She hides the truth, unwilling to accept that her body is changing.
A growing attraction toward the prince and a hidden desire for a demon, has Kiraly torn between returning home or embracing a new life in Atalan. But her hopes are shattered when war erupts.
Thrown into battle, Kiraly must decide between saving the friends she's come to love, or killing the one person that is supposed to get her home.
But war isn't the only obstacle blocking her path back to Earth. A far more powerful foe lurks in the shadows, a cunning creature who knows the truth. The truth of why she was brought to Atalan. And he will stop at nothing to awaken her powers.
War & Lies is book one in the Tales of Kiraly Trilogy.
This heart-wrenching story follows the journey of Kiraly and what her role is in this cruel world.
Tales of Kiraly is a tragic romance and does not have a HEA
Is Atalan truly such a savage place?
With a broken heart, Kiraly is swept from Earth and thrust into Atalan, a world where vampires, demons, and wolf shifters exist. Until she can find a warlock to send her home, she must remain with the Alliance as they prepare for war against demons.
When a stranger targets Kiraly, she begins training with the wolves for protection. But after being struck down in combat, she discovers her wounds heal with impossible speed. She hides the truth, unwilling to accept that her body is changing.
A growing attraction toward the prince and a hidden desire for a demon, has Kiraly torn between returning home or embracing a new life in Atalan. But her hopes are shattered when war erupts.
Thrown into battle, Kiraly must decide between saving the friends she's come to love, or killing the one person that is supposed to get her home.
But war isn't the only obstacle blocking her path back to Earth. A far more powerful foe lurks in the shadows, a cunning creature who knows the truth. The truth of why she was brought to Atalan. And he will stop at nothing to awaken her powers.
War & Lies is book one in the Tales of Kiraly Trilogy.
This heart-wrenching story follows the journey of Kiraly and what her role is in this cruel world.
Tales of Kiraly is a tragic romance and does not have a HEA
455 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
March 12, 2026
This was so good! Such a unique story and it was really easy to get sucked into. I’m usually pretty good at guessing where the story is going to go or what’s going to happen next, but this book was so unpredictable. This had me questioning everything and my emotions all over the place! I really did enjoy this and now I can’t wait for the next book to come out so I know what happens next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank You T.C. Havlok for the ARC of this book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank You T.C. Havlok for the ARC of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had so many twists I never knew what was going to happen next. You become quickly invested in the characters and story. This is not a lighthearted read and the series is not HEA. if you're looking for something gripping and immersive to dive into and have your feelings hurt give it a go.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
May 3, 2026
Wow what a mix of emotions I felt through reading this story!
It literally grabbed me by the throat and touched me, as I was part of the story!
This first book feels like a big teaser for the next books to come! Can’t wait!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It literally grabbed me by the throat and touched me, as I was part of the story!
This first book feels like a big teaser for the next books to come! Can’t wait!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
War and Lies by T.C. Havlok truly lives up to its title. This romantic fantasy delivers a gripping blend of war, deception, and slow-burning romance that kept me hooked from the very first page.
The story follows Kiraly, a woman suddenly swept from Earth and thrust into Atalan, a world where vampires, demons, and wolf shifters exist. Stripped of everything she knows, she must quickly learn who to trust, how to survive, and whether finding her way home is even possible. Havlok does an excellent job of placing the reader directly in Kiraly’s confusion and fear, making her journey feel immersive and urgent.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its fast-paced narrative combined with multiple points of view. The shifting perspectives add depth to the story and allow the reader to understand the motivations, secrets, and lies shaping a realm torn apart by war. That said, be warned: in a world where survival is never guaranteed, no character is truly safe. Just when you start to feel attached, the story reminds you of the brutal reality of war.
The romance is a slow burn, layered with tension and uncertainty, and features multiple love interests. Rather than overpowering the plot, the romantic elements are woven naturally into the story, heightening the emotional stakes and making each interaction feel meaningful. The push and pull between trust and betrayal keeps you guessing about who truly has Kiraly’s best interests at heart.
Overall, War and Lies is a compelling read for fans of romantic fantasy who enjoy high stakes, morally complex characters, and a story that refuses to play it safe. If you’re looking for a book filled with danger, desire, and difficult choices, this one is well worth the read.
The story follows Kiraly, a woman suddenly swept from Earth and thrust into Atalan, a world where vampires, demons, and wolf shifters exist. Stripped of everything she knows, she must quickly learn who to trust, how to survive, and whether finding her way home is even possible. Havlok does an excellent job of placing the reader directly in Kiraly’s confusion and fear, making her journey feel immersive and urgent.
One of the book’s strongest elements is its fast-paced narrative combined with multiple points of view. The shifting perspectives add depth to the story and allow the reader to understand the motivations, secrets, and lies shaping a realm torn apart by war. That said, be warned: in a world where survival is never guaranteed, no character is truly safe. Just when you start to feel attached, the story reminds you of the brutal reality of war.
The romance is a slow burn, layered with tension and uncertainty, and features multiple love interests. Rather than overpowering the plot, the romantic elements are woven naturally into the story, heightening the emotional stakes and making each interaction feel meaningful. The push and pull between trust and betrayal keeps you guessing about who truly has Kiraly’s best interests at heart.
Overall, War and Lies is a compelling read for fans of romantic fantasy who enjoy high stakes, morally complex characters, and a story that refuses to play it safe. If you’re looking for a book filled with danger, desire, and difficult choices, this one is well worth the read.
April 28, 2026
This book had me hooked immediately I read this book so fast! The FMC is extremely interesting the side characters are memorable. The war is heart wrenching and also interesting. It does end in a way that sets it up for the next book but not in a cliff hanger way but in a why that makes you think about everything you have ever learned in this book and whether it is something that you can trust or not. I think types of beings in this story are done well. The characters are memorable and the emotional connection is also interesting. There is trauma, loss, grief, and lies obviously that are a part of this as well. If you want a good Fantasy/ paranormal romance with an amazing amount of world building and a plot twist I didn't see coming I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 28, 2026
3.5 as I enjoyed the narration. Story was just a tad lacking and at times past the 50% mark hard to keep up with.
Listened 🎧 via Audible
Listened 🎧 via Audible
May 16, 2026
This book was gifted to me, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity! These are my own thoughts and feelings.
I really, really wanted to love this book, but I just could not connect or get lost in the story, at all. There were parts I enjoyed, I really liked the maze scene, where Kiraly is battling and racing up against the enemy. To be completely honest, Calcifer was a character that I could never stop thinking about, even more so than the MMC’s. I liked him a lot. And I enjoyed Merik a lot, too.
The pacing was I think my biggest issue. I totally get this is the first book in the series, I truly enjoy a slow burn, but I felt like it sort of jumped all over a lot with time, like all of a sudden it was weeks later, but there was just not a fluidity to the time passing or jumps.
It also felt like a lot of the time I was being told the story, instead of experiencing it as a reader, like when you feel like you’re the main character and you’re feeling what their feeling and you can picture exactly what’s happening like you’re actually right there, I just never felt that way with the book, it was more or less like hearing the story or being told the story.
This is also described as being a dark fantasy, but for me, I just didn’t have that experience with this book. That could totally just be a me thing, I read a lot of dark fantasy and darker themed books, so I may have just had higher expectations when it came to that element. What could not be dark in my opinion, may be to someone else!
I think I wanted that emotional connection and it never quite happened for me during my reading experience with War & Lies. Again, these are my own opinions, and what I experienced or felt while reading this, someone else may have a completely differing opinion or experience.
I really, really wanted to love this book, but I just could not connect or get lost in the story, at all. There were parts I enjoyed, I really liked the maze scene, where Kiraly is battling and racing up against the enemy. To be completely honest, Calcifer was a character that I could never stop thinking about, even more so than the MMC’s. I liked him a lot. And I enjoyed Merik a lot, too.
The pacing was I think my biggest issue. I totally get this is the first book in the series, I truly enjoy a slow burn, but I felt like it sort of jumped all over a lot with time, like all of a sudden it was weeks later, but there was just not a fluidity to the time passing or jumps.
It also felt like a lot of the time I was being told the story, instead of experiencing it as a reader, like when you feel like you’re the main character and you’re feeling what their feeling and you can picture exactly what’s happening like you’re actually right there, I just never felt that way with the book, it was more or less like hearing the story or being told the story.
This is also described as being a dark fantasy, but for me, I just didn’t have that experience with this book. That could totally just be a me thing, I read a lot of dark fantasy and darker themed books, so I may have just had higher expectations when it came to that element. What could not be dark in my opinion, may be to someone else!
I think I wanted that emotional connection and it never quite happened for me during my reading experience with War & Lies. Again, these are my own opinions, and what I experienced or felt while reading this, someone else may have a completely differing opinion or experience.
April 28, 2026
Book Review of War & Lies By T.C. Havlok
I need to state before getting into this review that I was given this book through Booksprout. Now that has been stated, I can now get into the book review. There are going to be spoilers in this review.
War & Lies by T.C. Havlok is a tragic reverse harem romantasy that completely pulled me in and then emotionally wrecked me in the best (and worst) way. It follows Kiraly, whose life is already unraveling before a traumatic accident leaves her stranded in Atalan, a brutal, war-torn world filled with vampires, demons, and wolf shifters. Her only goal is simple: find a way back home. Actually achieving that? Not so simple.
From the start, I felt immersed in Kiraly’s confusion and fear. Waking up in a world that shouldn’t exist, surrounded by people who don’t fully trust her (and who she definitely doesn’t trust either), creates a strong emotional hook. The skepticism between Kiraly and the men around her felt natural, and watching those dynamics evolve was one of the most engaging parts of the story. Kain, Tavish, Darren, and Readas each bring something distinct to the table, and their growing connection to Kiraly adds both tension and complexity.
The world-building is a standout. Atalan feels vivid and alive, with descriptions that made it easy to picture every scene. That said, the same level of detail extends to the violence this is not a soft fantasy. The brutality of war is front and center, and the graphic moments really drive home the emotional weight of what the characters are going through.
The plot itself starts off slower, leaning into romance and discovery, before shifting into something much heavier full of grief, betrayal, and twists that genuinely caught me off guard. Some moments felt a bit rushed, but they still landed emotionally. And this is absolutely not a happily ever after kind of story. It hurts, repeatedly, and doesn’t apologize for it.
Kiraly as a character worked for me in some ways and frustrated me in others. I appreciated her resilience and determination in such a harsh world, but I did struggle with how quickly she seemed to accept certain circumstances and how she transitions into being highly capable without much training. That said, I was still deeply invested in her journey and wanted to see where it would take her.
By the end, all five main characters feel like they’ve been put through everything imaginable and come out changed. I finished the book needing a moment to process, immediately started theorizing, and then found myself wanting to reread just to catch all the foreshadowing I missed the first time.
Is it a perfect, polished masterpiece? No. But it didn’t need to be. It left me thinking about it long after I finished, and that emotional impact is exactly why it’s a four star read for me.
If you’re looking for a romantasy with high stakes, slow burn tension, multiple love interests, and a story that leans hard into tragedy rather than comfort, War & Lies is absolutely worth picking up. Just be prepared it’s going to hurt, and you’ll probably be counting down the days until book two.
Now for the star ratings I’m giving this book.
I’m giving this book an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
The story is getting a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The writing style is getting a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
The spicy level is getting a rating of 2 out of 5 stars.
The spicy rating would be a 3 according to romance.io stem rating guide.
I need to state before getting into this review that I was given this book through Booksprout. Now that has been stated, I can now get into the book review. There are going to be spoilers in this review.
War & Lies by T.C. Havlok is a tragic reverse harem romantasy that completely pulled me in and then emotionally wrecked me in the best (and worst) way. It follows Kiraly, whose life is already unraveling before a traumatic accident leaves her stranded in Atalan, a brutal, war-torn world filled with vampires, demons, and wolf shifters. Her only goal is simple: find a way back home. Actually achieving that? Not so simple.
From the start, I felt immersed in Kiraly’s confusion and fear. Waking up in a world that shouldn’t exist, surrounded by people who don’t fully trust her (and who she definitely doesn’t trust either), creates a strong emotional hook. The skepticism between Kiraly and the men around her felt natural, and watching those dynamics evolve was one of the most engaging parts of the story. Kain, Tavish, Darren, and Readas each bring something distinct to the table, and their growing connection to Kiraly adds both tension and complexity.
The world-building is a standout. Atalan feels vivid and alive, with descriptions that made it easy to picture every scene. That said, the same level of detail extends to the violence this is not a soft fantasy. The brutality of war is front and center, and the graphic moments really drive home the emotional weight of what the characters are going through.
The plot itself starts off slower, leaning into romance and discovery, before shifting into something much heavier full of grief, betrayal, and twists that genuinely caught me off guard. Some moments felt a bit rushed, but they still landed emotionally. And this is absolutely not a happily ever after kind of story. It hurts, repeatedly, and doesn’t apologize for it.
Kiraly as a character worked for me in some ways and frustrated me in others. I appreciated her resilience and determination in such a harsh world, but I did struggle with how quickly she seemed to accept certain circumstances and how she transitions into being highly capable without much training. That said, I was still deeply invested in her journey and wanted to see where it would take her.
By the end, all five main characters feel like they’ve been put through everything imaginable and come out changed. I finished the book needing a moment to process, immediately started theorizing, and then found myself wanting to reread just to catch all the foreshadowing I missed the first time.
Is it a perfect, polished masterpiece? No. But it didn’t need to be. It left me thinking about it long after I finished, and that emotional impact is exactly why it’s a four star read for me.
If you’re looking for a romantasy with high stakes, slow burn tension, multiple love interests, and a story that leans hard into tragedy rather than comfort, War & Lies is absolutely worth picking up. Just be prepared it’s going to hurt, and you’ll probably be counting down the days until book two.
Now for the star ratings I’m giving this book.
I’m giving this book an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
The story is getting a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
The writing style is getting a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
The spicy level is getting a rating of 2 out of 5 stars.
The spicy rating would be a 3 according to romance.io stem rating guide.
April 22, 2026
Compared to other books like this one, it was so easy to see where War & Lies was lacking. The world building wasn't nearly as strong as it should have been for book 1 of a trilogy. The first book should always set up the world and plot for what comes next. Even 200 pages in, I felt like something was missing. Always something just out of reach. The multiple povs, while great in some parts, should've had better headings. I spent way too much time trying to keep track of whose head I was in versus enjoying the story. Kiraly is an odd character to say the least. She under reacted to being in a whole different world. I would have liked maybe a bit more drama with her realizing where she was. She took it too well but considering how she was immediately attracted to the guys, i shouldn't be surprised. The romance was a bit flimsy since it didnt seem Kiraly had any real connection with any of them. Still, I finished it. I think I will give book 2 a try because of the fast pace so thats what im hoping continues to the next book.
Review of advance copy
If you are looking for a romantasy that will keep you guessing, you're in the right place!
When Kiraly's world crashes around her (figuratively), she finds herself crashing into another world (literally!). Rescued from her plummet into another world by a group of unlikely allies, all she really wants is to find a way back home with the help of a vampire, a demon, a wolf shifter, and a prince. But the impending war between creatures that she never fathomed could truly exist puts a halt on those plans. Stuck in Atalan, she starts to uncover pieces of herself that she never knew she could.. As she finds her strength and uncanny abilities, she might play a key role in this war.
From the outset, I love the concept of this world. Despite the alliance between the 4 main male characters, I do like that there is tension and blatant distrust among the group. It is an intriguing combination of possible love interests for Kiraly, but don't expect a true reverse harem. There is some spice, but it is not at all overwhelming (I'd say 1.5 out of 5 on the spicy scale).
The characters are clearly different in their demeanors and that feels well thought out, but I do feel like there are times where the characters can feel a little bit one-note. There are times where I wanted more from the dialogue between characters to make them feel a little bit more "real".
Though it felt a little slower than I would have hoped, by the halfway mark, I was fully engaged with the story and the plot threads that were moving forward. The pace picked up and the twists and turns began to unravel in a satisfying and surprising way. BUT, read the warnings from the author! If you are looking for a happily ever after or assurance that everyone will make it out alive, you will find yourself disappointed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I am looking foward to seeing where all of the threads lead when the next book comes out! Great for fans of "From Blood and Ash" who are looking for a lower spice option! Can't wait to see what is next from this author!
Thanks to Booksprout for the advance reader copy of this book!
When Kiraly's world crashes around her (figuratively), she finds herself crashing into another world (literally!). Rescued from her plummet into another world by a group of unlikely allies, all she really wants is to find a way back home with the help of a vampire, a demon, a wolf shifter, and a prince. But the impending war between creatures that she never fathomed could truly exist puts a halt on those plans. Stuck in Atalan, she starts to uncover pieces of herself that she never knew she could.. As she finds her strength and uncanny abilities, she might play a key role in this war.
From the outset, I love the concept of this world. Despite the alliance between the 4 main male characters, I do like that there is tension and blatant distrust among the group. It is an intriguing combination of possible love interests for Kiraly, but don't expect a true reverse harem. There is some spice, but it is not at all overwhelming (I'd say 1.5 out of 5 on the spicy scale).
The characters are clearly different in their demeanors and that feels well thought out, but I do feel like there are times where the characters can feel a little bit one-note. There are times where I wanted more from the dialogue between characters to make them feel a little bit more "real".
Though it felt a little slower than I would have hoped, by the halfway mark, I was fully engaged with the story and the plot threads that were moving forward. The pace picked up and the twists and turns began to unravel in a satisfying and surprising way. BUT, read the warnings from the author! If you are looking for a happily ever after or assurance that everyone will make it out alive, you will find yourself disappointed.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I am looking foward to seeing where all of the threads lead when the next book comes out! Great for fans of "From Blood and Ash" who are looking for a lower spice option! Can't wait to see what is next from this author!
Thanks to Booksprout for the advance reader copy of this book!
Review of advance copy
⭐⭐⭐⭐
War and Lies by T. C. Havlok is an engaging romantasy that mixes war, secrets, and slow-burn romance in a way that keeps you guessing.
The story follows Kiraly, whose life on Earth suddenly falls apart when she is literally thrown into another world called Atalan. In this unfamiliar place, she quickly learns that vampires, demons, and wolf shifters are very real. With the help of an unusual group of allies—including a vampire, a demon, a wolf shifter, and a prince—Kiraly hopes to find a way back home. However, an impending war between these supernatural factions makes that goal far more complicated, and she begins to discover that she may have abilities and a role in this world she never expected.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the concept of the world and the tension between the characters. Even though the four male leads are technically allies, there is a clear sense of distrust and conflicting motives between them, which makes their interactions interesting. The romance is definitely a slow burn with several possible love interests, but it never fully turns into a reverse harem. There’s a little bit of spice, but it’s fairly mild and doesn’t overpower the plot.
The pacing started a bit slower than I expected, and at times I wished the dialogue had more depth to make some of the characters feel more layered. However, around the halfway point the story really picked up. The plot twists and shifting perspectives made the stakes feel higher, and I found myself much more invested in where the story was going.
The author also makes it clear that this world is brutal and unpredictable—no character is guaranteed safety, which adds tension throughout the book. By the end, it’s obvious the story is setting up bigger things for the next installment.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m curious to see where the story goes next. If you enjoy romantic fantasy with political tension, multiple love interests, and a lower-spice slow burn similar to From Blood and Ash, this one is definitely worth checking out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
War and Lies by T. C. Havlok is an engaging romantasy that mixes war, secrets, and slow-burn romance in a way that keeps you guessing.
The story follows Kiraly, whose life on Earth suddenly falls apart when she is literally thrown into another world called Atalan. In this unfamiliar place, she quickly learns that vampires, demons, and wolf shifters are very real. With the help of an unusual group of allies—including a vampire, a demon, a wolf shifter, and a prince—Kiraly hopes to find a way back home. However, an impending war between these supernatural factions makes that goal far more complicated, and she begins to discover that she may have abilities and a role in this world she never expected.
One of the things I enjoyed most was the concept of the world and the tension between the characters. Even though the four male leads are technically allies, there is a clear sense of distrust and conflicting motives between them, which makes their interactions interesting. The romance is definitely a slow burn with several possible love interests, but it never fully turns into a reverse harem. There’s a little bit of spice, but it’s fairly mild and doesn’t overpower the plot.
The pacing started a bit slower than I expected, and at times I wished the dialogue had more depth to make some of the characters feel more layered. However, around the halfway point the story really picked up. The plot twists and shifting perspectives made the stakes feel higher, and I found myself much more invested in where the story was going.
The author also makes it clear that this world is brutal and unpredictable—no character is guaranteed safety, which adds tension throughout the book. By the end, it’s obvious the story is setting up bigger things for the next installment.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’m curious to see where the story goes next. If you enjoy romantic fantasy with political tension, multiple love interests, and a lower-spice slow burn similar to From Blood and Ash, this one is definitely worth checking out.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy
- I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. -
War & Lies by T.C. Havlok is a reverse harem (tragic) romantasy following our FMC's adventure through the world of Atalan. Kiraly, our FMC, wakes after a trauma and finds herself trapped in a strange world with magic and creatures she thought only existed in movies. The MMCs of this book are introduced with an appropriate amount of skepticism, both from and toward Kiraly. By the end of the book, all five main characters have gone through the wringer and popped out on the other side with an abundance of well-deserved character development.
The world building in this book is incredible - the descriptions are so vivid that I feel like I'm walking through the scenes with the characters. But the vivid descriptions don't end there. This book features adventure and violence - and with that violence, we have some pretty vivid descriptions of gore. I found this to be incredibly impressive in making sure that the scenes had the intended emotional impact.
War & Lies follows a very well thought out plot that starts off slow and romantic and ends with grief and betrayal. Do not go into this book expecting a HEA - you are not going to get it, and you are going to go through a thousand different kinds of hurt. There are twists and turns that leave you confused, heartbroken, or just down right shocked. Some of these scenes felt slightly rushed, but did still manage to pack an emotional punch.
I finished this book and soaked everything in for a few minutes, letting my theories run wild. And then I started it over and began picking out all the moments of expertly placed and well hidden foreshadowing.
I loved this book more than I can put into words. Is it a literary masterpiece? No. Did it leave me in such emotional turmoil that I haven't been able to stop thinking about it? Absolutely - and that is precisely what makes it five star worthy for me.
War & Lies is perfect for those looking for a steamy and tragic romantasy series that will leave you theory-crafting like it's your full-time job.
War & Lies by T.C. Havlok is a reverse harem (tragic) romantasy following our FMC's adventure through the world of Atalan. Kiraly, our FMC, wakes after a trauma and finds herself trapped in a strange world with magic and creatures she thought only existed in movies. The MMCs of this book are introduced with an appropriate amount of skepticism, both from and toward Kiraly. By the end of the book, all five main characters have gone through the wringer and popped out on the other side with an abundance of well-deserved character development.
The world building in this book is incredible - the descriptions are so vivid that I feel like I'm walking through the scenes with the characters. But the vivid descriptions don't end there. This book features adventure and violence - and with that violence, we have some pretty vivid descriptions of gore. I found this to be incredibly impressive in making sure that the scenes had the intended emotional impact.
War & Lies follows a very well thought out plot that starts off slow and romantic and ends with grief and betrayal. Do not go into this book expecting a HEA - you are not going to get it, and you are going to go through a thousand different kinds of hurt. There are twists and turns that leave you confused, heartbroken, or just down right shocked. Some of these scenes felt slightly rushed, but did still manage to pack an emotional punch.
I finished this book and soaked everything in for a few minutes, letting my theories run wild. And then I started it over and began picking out all the moments of expertly placed and well hidden foreshadowing.
I loved this book more than I can put into words. Is it a literary masterpiece? No. Did it leave me in such emotional turmoil that I haven't been able to stop thinking about it? Absolutely - and that is precisely what makes it five star worthy for me.
War & Lies is perfect for those looking for a steamy and tragic romantasy series that will leave you theory-crafting like it's your full-time job.
April 30, 2026
I was fortunate to receive an advanced readers copy of the audio book for this new romantasy writers first book... thank you...
this is a wonderful and amazing start to what I suspect will be a series filled w drama and characters who will have some huge choices to make while trying to figure out who they truly are... (looking at you Kiraly🤩)
the worldbuilding if fairly good... most of it makes sense and helps drive the story forward... theres a geoundbase for some spectacular scenes later on.
While theres blood and gore it wasn't overly descriptive *it was gritty and horrible what happens... but every fight scene meant something... it moved the scene forward and we learn more about kiraly.
and poor girl here she's going to jave a hard time figuring out har own role in this story.
wonderful characters who all have their own secret agendas, so im sure we'll get even more surprised thst we did in the ending of this. I was quickly invested in Kiralys story and her karakter...
the twists and turns is this story kept me wanting to keep listening (and I did) it was never easy to see what would happen so thats a huge bonus in my book.
only "downside" was the single narration... whe she does a fair job regarding the voices it was sometimes har to distinguish who's pov we shifted to when she kept reading... especially when the pov shift happened within a chapter...
but it wasn't enough of a downside for me to dnf... totally worth the listen... thank you for writing this
will be looking forward to read/listen to the next part of this🥳🥳❤️
oh yeah let's not forget the spice... while it wasn't over the top I do think we got just the right amount of steamy scenes. 🔥🔥😍🤩
perhaps a 3 chili on spice level...
🌶🌶🌶
this is a wonderful and amazing start to what I suspect will be a series filled w drama and characters who will have some huge choices to make while trying to figure out who they truly are... (looking at you Kiraly🤩)
the worldbuilding if fairly good... most of it makes sense and helps drive the story forward... theres a geoundbase for some spectacular scenes later on.
While theres blood and gore it wasn't overly descriptive *it was gritty and horrible what happens... but every fight scene meant something... it moved the scene forward and we learn more about kiraly.
and poor girl here she's going to jave a hard time figuring out har own role in this story.
wonderful characters who all have their own secret agendas, so im sure we'll get even more surprised thst we did in the ending of this. I was quickly invested in Kiralys story and her karakter...
the twists and turns is this story kept me wanting to keep listening (and I did) it was never easy to see what would happen so thats a huge bonus in my book.
only "downside" was the single narration... whe she does a fair job regarding the voices it was sometimes har to distinguish who's pov we shifted to when she kept reading... especially when the pov shift happened within a chapter...
but it wasn't enough of a downside for me to dnf... totally worth the listen... thank you for writing this
will be looking forward to read/listen to the next part of this🥳🥳❤️
oh yeah let's not forget the spice... while it wasn't over the top I do think we got just the right amount of steamy scenes. 🔥🔥😍🤩
perhaps a 3 chili on spice level...
🌶🌶🌶
Review of advance copy received from Author
From the very first page, this book completely consumed me. I picked it up four days ago and immediately fell into a reading spiral—I devoured it, and this is not a short book. Every time I told myself “one more chapter,” hours disappeared.
It truly delivers on every level. The story captures that disorienting, fascinating idea of waking up in another world and does so with raw, genuine emotion. The characters are written so beautifully that you don’t just like them—you feel them. You fall in love with each one, and your heart breaks with them too. There’s love, loss, war, action, and yes, a bit of gore woven in perfectly. And the slow burn? Absolutely immaculate. The kind that settles into your chest and refuses to leave.
The world-building and character development are phenomenal. I rarely fall this hard, this fast for a fantasy series—usually it takes at least a book or two—but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. Even as someone who can sometimes struggle to get into fantasy, this story grabbed me and never let go. It’s the kind of series that stays with you, one you know you’ll hold close to your heart long after you turn the final page.
I was lucky enough to read this as an ARC reader, and I can confidently say I’ll still be buying a physical copy because it deserves a permanent place on my shelf. So when I say run, not walk, to preorder this book—I mean it. If you love fantasy romance, reverse harem, high-stakes action, and deeply emotional love stories, this book is made for you. Fantasy romance girlies, this one is calling your name.
It releases in April, and the preorders are live—go get it. You’re going to want this on your shelf.
It truly delivers on every level. The story captures that disorienting, fascinating idea of waking up in another world and does so with raw, genuine emotion. The characters are written so beautifully that you don’t just like them—you feel them. You fall in love with each one, and your heart breaks with them too. There’s love, loss, war, action, and yes, a bit of gore woven in perfectly. And the slow burn? Absolutely immaculate. The kind that settles into your chest and refuses to leave.
The world-building and character development are phenomenal. I rarely fall this hard, this fast for a fantasy series—usually it takes at least a book or two—but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. Even as someone who can sometimes struggle to get into fantasy, this story grabbed me and never let go. It’s the kind of series that stays with you, one you know you’ll hold close to your heart long after you turn the final page.
I was lucky enough to read this as an ARC reader, and I can confidently say I’ll still be buying a physical copy because it deserves a permanent place on my shelf. So when I say run, not walk, to preorder this book—I mean it. If you love fantasy romance, reverse harem, high-stakes action, and deeply emotional love stories, this book is made for you. Fantasy romance girlies, this one is calling your name.
It releases in April, and the preorders are live—go get it. You’re going to want this on your shelf.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As an ARC reader who leans toward darker fantasy with emotional depth and morally complex characters, War & Lies delivered a slow-burn, immersive experience that stayed with me long after I finished. This is not a light fantasy romance, and it does not pretend to be. It is tragic, layered, and unapologetically heavy in the best way.
Kiraly’s journey begins with heartbreak and only grows more complicated once she is torn from Earth and thrown into Atalan, a world where demons, vampires, and wolf shifters coexist on the edge of war. Atalan itself feels dangerous and alive, a place where survival often clashes with morality. The world building pulls you in steadily, revealing its rules, alliances, and fractures piece by piece, making the stakes feel increasingly real as the story unfolds.
The multiple POVs were one of the strongest elements for me. Seeing events through the eyes of various supernatural love interests added emotional complexity and depth, especially as themes of power, desire, loyalty, and corruption came into play. Romantic tension and emotional connections are woven deeply into the story, but this is not a happily ever after kind of book. Choices have consequences, and the characters feel painfully aware of that fact, which makes their struggles feel raw and believable.
This is a slow-dark fantasy that rewards patience. The pacing allows relationships and conflicts to simmer, and the emotional weight builds naturally. If you enjoy tragic love stories, morally gray characters, and fantasy worlds that don’t shy away from hard truths, War & Lies is absolutely worth the read. I’m very interested to see where this story goes next.
Kiraly’s journey begins with heartbreak and only grows more complicated once she is torn from Earth and thrown into Atalan, a world where demons, vampires, and wolf shifters coexist on the edge of war. Atalan itself feels dangerous and alive, a place where survival often clashes with morality. The world building pulls you in steadily, revealing its rules, alliances, and fractures piece by piece, making the stakes feel increasingly real as the story unfolds.
The multiple POVs were one of the strongest elements for me. Seeing events through the eyes of various supernatural love interests added emotional complexity and depth, especially as themes of power, desire, loyalty, and corruption came into play. Romantic tension and emotional connections are woven deeply into the story, but this is not a happily ever after kind of book. Choices have consequences, and the characters feel painfully aware of that fact, which makes their struggles feel raw and believable.
This is a slow-dark fantasy that rewards patience. The pacing allows relationships and conflicts to simmer, and the emotional weight builds naturally. If you enjoy tragic love stories, morally gray characters, and fantasy worlds that don’t shy away from hard truths, War & Lies is absolutely worth the read. I’m very interested to see where this story goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
Tropes
✨ Vampires, Demons, Wolf shifter’s, Warlocks and more
✨ Multiple POV’s
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Epic Betrayal
✨ No HEA
✨ Trilogy
Ok I just finished this book and don’t know what to do with myself. The last half of this book had me in a choke hold.
The amount of twists and betrayals that went down at the end of this book was crazy!!
I did not see them coming it was heartbreaking 💔
Ok so this book follows the FMC Kiraly who got swept from Earth and pulled into a world called Atalan, where a war is currently raging between Demons, Vampires and Wolf shifters. And she is trying to find her way back home.
At the beginning of the book we have 4 MMCs we have Prince Tavish, Readas, Darren and Kain.
Each character brings something different to the book and the character development is amazing!
But then towards the end we get introduced to more characters. And that changes everything. They all have big parts to play in the end of this book.
The world building in this book is out of this world. So beautifully descriptive. I could picture what the world and all the characters looked like.
This book is so fast paced. And I loved that, there was high stakes, twists and turns and so much betrayal!
I liked that we got Mulitple POV’s. Getting a look into how each of the characters was feeling and why they made the choices that they did.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Tropes
✨ Vampires, Demons, Wolf shifter’s, Warlocks and more
✨ Multiple POV’s
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Epic Betrayal
✨ No HEA
✨ Trilogy
Ok I just finished this book and don’t know what to do with myself. The last half of this book had me in a choke hold.
The amount of twists and betrayals that went down at the end of this book was crazy!!
I did not see them coming it was heartbreaking 💔
Ok so this book follows the FMC Kiraly who got swept from Earth and pulled into a world called Atalan, where a war is currently raging between Demons, Vampires and Wolf shifters. And she is trying to find her way back home.
At the beginning of the book we have 4 MMCs we have Prince Tavish, Readas, Darren and Kain.
Each character brings something different to the book and the character development is amazing!
But then towards the end we get introduced to more characters. And that changes everything. They all have big parts to play in the end of this book.
The world building in this book is out of this world. So beautifully descriptive. I could picture what the world and all the characters looked like.
This book is so fast paced. And I loved that, there was high stakes, twists and turns and so much betrayal!
I liked that we got Mulitple POV’s. Getting a look into how each of the characters was feeling and why they made the choices that they did.
I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
War and Lies by T.C. Havlock was definitely a rollercoaster ride! I truly never had a clue what was about to come next, so each new twist was such a surprise! Who to trust, that is the question.
This book follows the story of Kiraly, a woman who was suddenly thrown into an entirely new world and has to risk it all for her own safety and the safety of those she grew to care about. This book is full of twists, turns, guts-and-glory, and a slow-burn that had me screaming at times (in the best of ways).
Admittedly, it did take me a bit to get into the book, but once it gripped me, I couldn’t put it down! The relationship Kiraly had with each of our main four male characters was all so different and endearing, I couldn’t help but fall a bit for each of them. (Though, I will concede to having a soft spot for the gentle giant, Darren!) While I’m not usually a huge fan of the damsel-in-distress trope, I still feel like the overall plot and the twists really made up for it!
I did especially love the world-building, and do hope we get to see more of the fantastical world of Alatan in the next book, which I definitely will be tuning in for! I do think it is safe to say that this book has given me some trust issues, and I do relate to Kiraly in the sense that I’m not even sure who to trust anymore! What I do know is that I’ll be anxiously awaiting this book to officially go on sale and for book two to find out what happened after the cliffhanger!
I want to thank T.C. Havlock for the opportunity to read this ARC! Keep up the amazing writing!
This book follows the story of Kiraly, a woman who was suddenly thrown into an entirely new world and has to risk it all for her own safety and the safety of those she grew to care about. This book is full of twists, turns, guts-and-glory, and a slow-burn that had me screaming at times (in the best of ways).
Admittedly, it did take me a bit to get into the book, but once it gripped me, I couldn’t put it down! The relationship Kiraly had with each of our main four male characters was all so different and endearing, I couldn’t help but fall a bit for each of them. (Though, I will concede to having a soft spot for the gentle giant, Darren!) While I’m not usually a huge fan of the damsel-in-distress trope, I still feel like the overall plot and the twists really made up for it!
I did especially love the world-building, and do hope we get to see more of the fantastical world of Alatan in the next book, which I definitely will be tuning in for! I do think it is safe to say that this book has given me some trust issues, and I do relate to Kiraly in the sense that I’m not even sure who to trust anymore! What I do know is that I’ll be anxiously awaiting this book to officially go on sale and for book two to find out what happened after the cliffhanger!
I want to thank T.C. Havlock for the opportunity to read this ARC! Keep up the amazing writing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kiraly has been thrust into Atalan, a world where supernatural beings are about to go to war and magic flows freely. When all she wants is to get home, multiple forces get in her way. She has to learn to defend herself to survive and come to terms with the newfound power this world has granted her: superfast healing abilities and unparalleled accuracy with a bow and arrow. All this while fighting her attraction to the four beings protecting her: Kain, the vampire; Raedas, the elite demon; Darren, the alpha wolf shifter; and Tavish, the crown prince - and they are not making it easy. She gets caught up in the war efforts and uncovers many lies, but not before her heart is shattered multiple times.
Great read! I loved Kiraly and can't wait to learn more about her in the next book. There were many plot twists I didn't see coming and I loved it! All the different beings were interesting, even when I didn't quite understand their motives. I am going to give the author the benefit of the doubt and hope that more information will come out in future books. I would have liked a few more loose ends to be tied up in this book, but overall, I thought it was a fun, different take on romantasy, where a happy ending is not always necessary. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves romantasy, but might be tired of the same formula and tropes we tend to see in a lot of other books. This book stands out to me and I have high hopes for the trilogy.
Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Great read! I loved Kiraly and can't wait to learn more about her in the next book. There were many plot twists I didn't see coming and I loved it! All the different beings were interesting, even when I didn't quite understand their motives. I am going to give the author the benefit of the doubt and hope that more information will come out in future books. I would have liked a few more loose ends to be tied up in this book, but overall, I thought it was a fun, different take on romantasy, where a happy ending is not always necessary. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves romantasy, but might be tired of the same formula and tropes we tend to see in a lot of other books. This book stands out to me and I have high hopes for the trilogy.
Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
War and lies (Tales of Kiraly Book #1) by T.C. Havlok
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you T.C. Havlok for the opportunity to read this ARC. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
This book/series has a very interesting world with a lot of potential. The beginning felt a bit choppy for me. I struggled to connect with the FMC throughout the book. To start out, I was kind of surprised by her reaction to the new world she was thrown into - it seemed very muted. If it were me, I would have been in denial for days, weeks, maybe even months. Kiraly was also very “damsel-in-distress” the entire book and while I think that’s fine in the beginning, she stayed weak throughout which was kind of a bummer. That said - I REALLY did enjoy the twist involving the FMC. It added so much to the story and will definitely make readers want to continue the series.
I couldn’t really get on board with the immediate protectiveness and romantic interest from the guys. (With the set up I was fully expected a RH to develop but it did not.) Anyway, with the FMC personality being so subdued, the level of fawning from the male characters didn’t sit right for me.
I also found the super emotional scenes to move too quickly for me, but about half way through the book I do feel the storyline became more fun and easier to read.
While this wasn’t a great fit for my personal likes, there are some really great ideas in this book! Readers who enjoy fantasy romance will find a lot to appreciate!
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you T.C. Havlok for the opportunity to read this ARC. This review reflects my honest thoughts.
This book/series has a very interesting world with a lot of potential. The beginning felt a bit choppy for me. I struggled to connect with the FMC throughout the book. To start out, I was kind of surprised by her reaction to the new world she was thrown into - it seemed very muted. If it were me, I would have been in denial for days, weeks, maybe even months. Kiraly was also very “damsel-in-distress” the entire book and while I think that’s fine in the beginning, she stayed weak throughout which was kind of a bummer. That said - I REALLY did enjoy the twist involving the FMC. It added so much to the story and will definitely make readers want to continue the series.
I couldn’t really get on board with the immediate protectiveness and romantic interest from the guys. (With the set up I was fully expected a RH to develop but it did not.) Anyway, with the FMC personality being so subdued, the level of fawning from the male characters didn’t sit right for me.
I also found the super emotional scenes to move too quickly for me, but about half way through the book I do feel the storyline became more fun and easier to read.
While this wasn’t a great fit for my personal likes, there are some really great ideas in this book! Readers who enjoy fantasy romance will find a lot to appreciate!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Who doesn't love vampires, Wolf shifters, demons, and a handsome prince? Don’t go into this book, expecting the 'normal' fantasy story with a happily ever after, because this is nothing like that... it is dark, twisted, creative, and unquestionably unique. note the dark content, I think the author makes that clear in the trigger warnings. This is also a reverse harem so make sure thats something you like to vibe with before diving in.
Talk about deception, confusion, and sadness. Prepare to have your head swivel so fast, you might just get whiplash. (and you will). Enjoyed the multiple POV's, next book it would be nice to see headers of whose POV it is to help with the flow of the story (personal opinion).
The spice scenes are decent and don't overpower the book. If you're looking for more plot than spice, this book will give you that.
The pacing does ebb and flow, leaning more on the fast-paced side, which sometimes led to the action scenes feeling a bit rushed at points, but she pulls it back together quickly. I think that is something that comes with experience.
I will say I hope our FMC comes into her womanhood in book two. Totally understand the damsel in distress trope... but girl stop being so trusting of these good looking fellows 🤣 her reliance on other characters and her low self worth is super aggravating. Queen... pick that chin up, and come to know your worth. 👑
Talk about deception, confusion, and sadness. Prepare to have your head swivel so fast, you might just get whiplash. (and you will). Enjoyed the multiple POV's, next book it would be nice to see headers of whose POV it is to help with the flow of the story (personal opinion).
The spice scenes are decent and don't overpower the book. If you're looking for more plot than spice, this book will give you that.
The pacing does ebb and flow, leaning more on the fast-paced side, which sometimes led to the action scenes feeling a bit rushed at points, but she pulls it back together quickly. I think that is something that comes with experience.
I will say I hope our FMC comes into her womanhood in book two. Totally understand the damsel in distress trope... but girl stop being so trusting of these good looking fellows 🤣 her reliance on other characters and her low self worth is super aggravating. Queen... pick that chin up, and come to know your worth. 👑
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book follows a girl from the modern world who suddenly finds herself thrown into a completely different realm, one where werewolves, vampires, demons, and humans all exist. Her life turns upside down after getting dumped by her boyfriend and getting caught up in a strange incident that pulls her into this new world.
And honestly… this story is a beautiful mess in the best way possible. You’ve got a human prince, a werewolf alpha, a vampire lord, and even a demon all of them powerful, mysterious, and (of course) very attractive. It makes things even more complicated for the FMC because she’s stuck there with no way back, while also being caught in the middle of all these intense connections, and a war between demon.
What really stood out to me is how well written everything is. The world building and lore are detailed and immersive, the tension is constant, and the slow burn romance keeps you hooked. It’s the kind of story where you don’t just read you get completely pulled into it. And yess!! Absolutely love this book. Can’t wait looking forward the next book of this series.
At the end of the day, it almost feels like you, as the reader, have to pick which male lead you’re rooting for…and honestly? That might be the hardest part.
If you enjoy chaotic, high tension stories with multiple love interests, tragic romance, and darker romantasy vibes, this is definitely one to pick up.
And honestly… this story is a beautiful mess in the best way possible. You’ve got a human prince, a werewolf alpha, a vampire lord, and even a demon all of them powerful, mysterious, and (of course) very attractive. It makes things even more complicated for the FMC because she’s stuck there with no way back, while also being caught in the middle of all these intense connections, and a war between demon.
What really stood out to me is how well written everything is. The world building and lore are detailed and immersive, the tension is constant, and the slow burn romance keeps you hooked. It’s the kind of story where you don’t just read you get completely pulled into it. And yess!! Absolutely love this book. Can’t wait looking forward the next book of this series.
At the end of the day, it almost feels like you, as the reader, have to pick which male lead you’re rooting for…and honestly? That might be the hardest part.
If you enjoy chaotic, high tension stories with multiple love interests, tragic romance, and darker romantasy vibes, this is definitely one to pick up.
April 21, 2026
War & Lies by T.C. Havlok
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, T.C. Havlok, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
War & Lies follows a detailed and unique plot line that really gets you in the feels. Like what else would you expect from a Slow Dark Fantasy?
We start off with a little mystery that leads us slowly into this new world where we meet our love interests. And let me let you, you won't be lacking in options between these attractive and powerful men 🤤 but don’t keep your hopes up as there is NO HEA in this book. Instead, you will find yourself in a world of hurt. So expect to be so emotionally destroyed and broken into tiny little pieces. I've had a while to sit in my feelings and I am still grieving over what I read, but at the same time, I know I NEED more. I could at least hope that will help heal more broken heart 😭
So if you're looking for a book that will break you, War & Lies will be perfect to pick up. Expect to fall for the book hard and fast, but don’t forget, you will be utterly destroyed 💔
Read if you like:
🖤 Reverse Harem
💜 High Stakes Action
🖤 Slow Dark Fantasy
💜 Vampires, Demons, Wolf Shifters, Humans, and more
🖤 No HEA
💜 Multiple POVs
🖤 Trilogies
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, T.C. Havlok, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
War & Lies follows a detailed and unique plot line that really gets you in the feels. Like what else would you expect from a Slow Dark Fantasy?
We start off with a little mystery that leads us slowly into this new world where we meet our love interests. And let me let you, you won't be lacking in options between these attractive and powerful men 🤤 but don’t keep your hopes up as there is NO HEA in this book. Instead, you will find yourself in a world of hurt. So expect to be so emotionally destroyed and broken into tiny little pieces. I've had a while to sit in my feelings and I am still grieving over what I read, but at the same time, I know I NEED more. I could at least hope that will help heal more broken heart 😭
So if you're looking for a book that will break you, War & Lies will be perfect to pick up. Expect to fall for the book hard and fast, but don’t forget, you will be utterly destroyed 💔
Read if you like:
🖤 Reverse Harem
💜 High Stakes Action
🖤 Slow Dark Fantasy
💜 Vampires, Demons, Wolf Shifters, Humans, and more
🖤 No HEA
💜 Multiple POVs
🖤 Trilogies
May 6, 2026
War & Lies dropped me straight into absolute chaos and I ate it up. A human FMC thrown into the middle of a war surrounded by demons, vampires, shifters, betrayal, and people she absolutely cannot trust? Say less.
This book constantly kept me guessing because literally NO ONE was safe. Every time I thought I had a grasp on what was happening, the story twisted again. The tension, the secrets, the manipulation… it was relentless in the best way. And our poor FMC? This girl suffered from beginning to end. Emotionally, physically, mentally… she went THROUGH it.
One thing I really loved was how different all of her relationships felt. Her dynamic with each character had its own vibe and chemistry, and it made the world feel layered instead of repetitive. But after everything she endured, I really wanted to see her step into her strength more instead of constantly feeling like the victim of everyone around her. The potential is absolutely there, so I’m hoping book two gives us more of her rising up and taking control of her own story.
I did try immersive reading this one at first and honestly the narration just was not for me. Once I stopped the audio and physically read it instead, I enjoyed it so much more. That had nothing to do with the writing itself though because the actual story had me fully invested.
Overall this was messy, brutal, twisty fantasy chaos with betrayal around every corner and I will absolutely be picking up book two because I need to see where this story goes next.
This book constantly kept me guessing because literally NO ONE was safe. Every time I thought I had a grasp on what was happening, the story twisted again. The tension, the secrets, the manipulation… it was relentless in the best way. And our poor FMC? This girl suffered from beginning to end. Emotionally, physically, mentally… she went THROUGH it.
One thing I really loved was how different all of her relationships felt. Her dynamic with each character had its own vibe and chemistry, and it made the world feel layered instead of repetitive. But after everything she endured, I really wanted to see her step into her strength more instead of constantly feeling like the victim of everyone around her. The potential is absolutely there, so I’m hoping book two gives us more of her rising up and taking control of her own story.
I did try immersive reading this one at first and honestly the narration just was not for me. Once I stopped the audio and physically read it instead, I enjoyed it so much more. That had nothing to do with the writing itself though because the actual story had me fully invested.
Overall this was messy, brutal, twisty fantasy chaos with betrayal around every corner and I will absolutely be picking up book two because I need to see where this story goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is a wild ride from start to finish! Kiraly's journey from heartbroken Earthling to a central figure in a supernatural war is captivating. The world-building is fantastic, with vampires, demons, and wolf shifters all vying for power in Atalan. Is there romance? A love interest? Multiple love interests? A love triangle? Why choose? Multiple men??
You’ll have to read it to find out 🤭😉
What really sets this book apart is Kiraly's personal growth. Her struggle to accept her changing body and the truth behind her arrival in Atalan kept me hooked. And let me tell you, this book gave me whiplash with all the twists and turns! Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, another secret would be revealed. I also loved and devoured Kain and Darren’s part of this story.
The looming threat of a powerful, unknown enemy adds a layer of suspense that had me on the edge of my seat.
Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and paranormal romance. It's a perfect blend of action, romance, and mystery, with a strong female lead that you'll be rooting for until the very end. I can't wait to see what happens next!
You’ll have to read it to find out 🤭😉
What really sets this book apart is Kiraly's personal growth. Her struggle to accept her changing body and the truth behind her arrival in Atalan kept me hooked. And let me tell you, this book gave me whiplash with all the twists and turns! Just when I thought I had the plot figured out, another secret would be revealed. I also loved and devoured Kain and Darren’s part of this story.
The looming threat of a powerful, unknown enemy adds a layer of suspense that had me on the edge of my seat.
Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy and paranormal romance. It's a perfect blend of action, romance, and mystery, with a strong female lead that you'll be rooting for until the very end. I can't wait to see what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Super cool premise for how she gets to the world she’s in! And what is known concerning her arrival and its implications at the beggining v. the very end of the book is WILD!
Let it be known that I really really liked Naydeen
Actions scenes are well done considering this is romance heavy and the author’s not afraid to get gory in those moments
Pacing does feel off at bits but it’s not enough to distract from the story that’s happening
I did NOT love the move Tavish pulled with the Herculeans but I kinda loved how everyone responded and how it catapulted the character dynamics forward
I will say after that moment with the Herculeans, things pick up and things get revealed at a pace that it was almost hard to follow and I got a little lost in the plot but maybe that was just me. Some absolutely insane lore dropping happening at the end that takes this story in a really cool direction that I was not expecting at all. I have no idea what’s true anymore and that’s half the fun! I went into this thinking it would be a romance with fantasy vibes but the story really popped off that lastquarter and I’m excited for the next installment the series
Let it be known that I really really liked Naydeen
Actions scenes are well done considering this is romance heavy and the author’s not afraid to get gory in those moments
Pacing does feel off at bits but it’s not enough to distract from the story that’s happening
I did NOT love the move Tavish pulled with the Herculeans but I kinda loved how everyone responded and how it catapulted the character dynamics forward
I will say after that moment with the Herculeans, things pick up and things get revealed at a pace that it was almost hard to follow and I got a little lost in the plot but maybe that was just me. Some absolutely insane lore dropping happening at the end that takes this story in a really cool direction that I was not expecting at all. I have no idea what’s true anymore and that’s half the fun! I went into this thinking it would be a romance with fantasy vibes but the story really popped off that lastquarter and I’m excited for the next installment the series
April 21, 2026
I’m really grateful to have had the opportunity to read an early copy of War and Lies by T. C. Havlock.
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t the right fit for me, and I wasn’t able to finish it. I found myself struggling to fully connect with the characters, which made it difficult to stay engaged in the story.
The narrative seems to transition hard and with no notice of when it jumped between different POVs. I often needed extra time to reorient myself with each transition. Because of this, I found it challenging to stay immersed, especially early on.
I also found the level of detail quite dense at times. While I can appreciate the effort put into building out the story and its world, it occasionally pulled me out of the flow rather than drawing me in.
Ultimately, I decided to step away, as I was having difficulty staying engaged. I do think readers who enjoy detailed, multi-perspective storytelling may connect with this more than I did.
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unfortunately, this one wasn’t the right fit for me, and I wasn’t able to finish it. I found myself struggling to fully connect with the characters, which made it difficult to stay engaged in the story.
The narrative seems to transition hard and with no notice of when it jumped between different POVs. I often needed extra time to reorient myself with each transition. Because of this, I found it challenging to stay immersed, especially early on.
I also found the level of detail quite dense at times. While I can appreciate the effort put into building out the story and its world, it occasionally pulled me out of the flow rather than drawing me in.
Ultimately, I decided to step away, as I was having difficulty staying engaged. I do think readers who enjoy detailed, multi-perspective storytelling may connect with this more than I did.
Thank you again for the opportunity to read and review an advance copy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
This has the beginnings of an epic tale that leaves us on a cliffhanger.
I felt bad for our FMC. She was literally tossed around, fell for the guy and lost the guy. On repeat...It made her seem weak. Thats the reason I gave 4 stars. She goes from one MMC to the next like a lost puppy and when all the guys who showed interest are gone, she goes back to the one that actually put his pack before her. We dont see that cause...cliffy.
Dont get me wrong the writing was good. The world building was epic. The plot IS there and if you are wanting a multi-book series, you are well on your way. I also get that our FMC was ripped out of her world and was thrown into a world with all these supernatural creatures and magic so it SHOULD take her time to come around, hence the "weak" persona. She doesn't seem weak in mind as she accepted the fact magic and supers existed in this new world. Maybe she was raised to always have a man around to protect her, idk. I just can't get over that weakness in her...
I felt bad for our FMC. She was literally tossed around, fell for the guy and lost the guy. On repeat...It made her seem weak. Thats the reason I gave 4 stars. She goes from one MMC to the next like a lost puppy and when all the guys who showed interest are gone, she goes back to the one that actually put his pack before her. We dont see that cause...cliffy.
Dont get me wrong the writing was good. The world building was epic. The plot IS there and if you are wanting a multi-book series, you are well on your way. I also get that our FMC was ripped out of her world and was thrown into a world with all these supernatural creatures and magic so it SHOULD take her time to come around, hence the "weak" persona. She doesn't seem weak in mind as she accepted the fact magic and supers existed in this new world. Maybe she was raised to always have a man around to protect her, idk. I just can't get over that weakness in her...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kiraly, whose life unravels after a painful breakup and a harrowing plunge into the ocean when a bridge collapses. Miraculously, she finds herself in a fantastical new world, barely clinging to consciousness. Here, she encounters an intriguing cast of characters: Kain, a brooding vampire; Tavish, a charming prince; Darren, a fierce wolf shifter; and Readas, a mysterious demon.
Confusion envelops Kiraly as she navigates this strange realm, grappling with her new circumstances and questioning her purpose. As she uncovers her natural talent for archery, she begins to suspect that her presence in this world is no coincidence. Each of the four remarkable men feels a magnetic attraction to her, further complicating her journey of self-discovery.
Dive into this magical adventure to unravel the mysteries surrounding Kiraly and the unique bond she shares with these extraordinary beings. It’s a spellbinding story filled with intrigue, romance, and the exploration of what it truly means to be special.
Confusion envelops Kiraly as she navigates this strange realm, grappling with her new circumstances and questioning her purpose. As she uncovers her natural talent for archery, she begins to suspect that her presence in this world is no coincidence. Each of the four remarkable men feels a magnetic attraction to her, further complicating her journey of self-discovery.
Dive into this magical adventure to unravel the mysteries surrounding Kiraly and the unique bond she shares with these extraordinary beings. It’s a spellbinding story filled with intrigue, romance, and the exploration of what it truly means to be special.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 ⭐️ I had a really good time reading this! I loved how she starts off in the real world and then ends up in a magical one. The mystery of why she was there and who brought her in had me hooked from the start.
Watching how the creatures reacted to her, and how she handled them in return made things even more interesting...let’s just say the tension was there 👀. The love interests, the twists, all of it kept me locked in and wanting to see what would happen next.
There were a lot of battle scenes with some pretty brutal ways to go 🤢 and at one point I had to stop getting attached to characters because… yeah… no HEA 😭
The whole time I couldn’t predict what was coming next. By the end, my mind was spinning from all the twists, and I really had to sit there and piece everything together to make it make sense in my head. Because let's just say...i was fooled, and now i don't know who to trust when the next book comes out😅. Overall, this was a great read, and I'd recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Watching how the creatures reacted to her, and how she handled them in return made things even more interesting...let’s just say the tension was there 👀. The love interests, the twists, all of it kept me locked in and wanting to see what would happen next.
There were a lot of battle scenes with some pretty brutal ways to go 🤢 and at one point I had to stop getting attached to characters because… yeah… no HEA 😭
The whole time I couldn’t predict what was coming next. By the end, my mind was spinning from all the twists, and I really had to sit there and piece everything together to make it make sense in my head. Because let's just say...i was fooled, and now i don't know who to trust when the next book comes out😅. Overall, this was a great read, and I'd recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2026
🤯 What in the chaotic, magical madness did I just read?!
When I say I had an absolute blast with this book, I mean it. From the very beginning, I was convinced I had it all figured out—thinking it might lean a little too cliché or predictable. But wow… I was gloriously wrong. The moment this story took a sharp left turn, it never looked back, and neither did I.
Demons? Wolf shifters? Vampires? Unexpected twists? Oh, it delivered ALL of it and then some. 🧙🏻♂️ 🏴☠️ Every chapter kept pulling me deeper into this wildly immersive world, and honestly… I didn’t want it to end. I found myself wanting to stay lost in this universe just a little longer.
Fast-paced, addictive, and packed with enough twists to keep you hooked without ever feeling overwhelming, this was such a fun ride. The writing was engaging, easy to follow, and balanced chaos with clarity beautifully.
Overall? A definite win for me. This story is absolutely staying with me… at least until book two finally decides to bless my life. 😭📚
When I say I had an absolute blast with this book, I mean it. From the very beginning, I was convinced I had it all figured out—thinking it might lean a little too cliché or predictable. But wow… I was gloriously wrong. The moment this story took a sharp left turn, it never looked back, and neither did I.
Demons? Wolf shifters? Vampires? Unexpected twists? Oh, it delivered ALL of it and then some. 🧙🏻♂️ 🏴☠️ Every chapter kept pulling me deeper into this wildly immersive world, and honestly… I didn’t want it to end. I found myself wanting to stay lost in this universe just a little longer.
Fast-paced, addictive, and packed with enough twists to keep you hooked without ever feeling overwhelming, this was such a fun ride. The writing was engaging, easy to follow, and balanced chaos with clarity beautifully.
Overall? A definite win for me. This story is absolutely staying with me… at least until book two finally decides to bless my life. 😭📚
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