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A Ripple of Pages and Secrets
A Sorcery of Thorns
meets The Starless Sea in this romantasy about a human girl who gets trapped in a magical and dangerous library world together with its brooding fae guardian.
Magical books and libraries are dangerous.
But even more dangerous are their warrior guardians, as Aline soon finds out. This guardian going by the name Roane is a handsome and grumpy fae male , and he’s about to become the bane of Aline’s existence.
That’s what you get when you get trapped inside the wondrous and perilous Library of Areon…
When Aline enters the magical Library of Areon to deliver a magical book, she can’t imagine she’d become trapped there, together with Roane, the brooding, dashing fae guardian, and his animal companions.
Roane wants her gone at any cost, and she isn’t excited at the prospect of remaining inside the giant cave full of monsters, either, but getting out is… complicated. If not downright impossible.
As impossible as the grumpy fae guarding it.
But in the mythical library world, things are not what they seem, and as for Aline herself… she may be something else. Something more.
Human? Ostensibly so.
Magical? Also.
Doomed? Well… that remains to be seen.
As Areon’s world starts to collapse and her feelings for Roane grow, she will have to decide whether she really wants to leave, or stay and fight for her newfound family.
Dear look inside the book for content warnings and take care of yourself.
Magical books and libraries are dangerous.
But even more dangerous are their warrior guardians, as Aline soon finds out. This guardian going by the name Roane is a handsome and grumpy fae male , and he’s about to become the bane of Aline’s existence.
That’s what you get when you get trapped inside the wondrous and perilous Library of Areon…
When Aline enters the magical Library of Areon to deliver a magical book, she can’t imagine she’d become trapped there, together with Roane, the brooding, dashing fae guardian, and his animal companions.
Roane wants her gone at any cost, and she isn’t excited at the prospect of remaining inside the giant cave full of monsters, either, but getting out is… complicated. If not downright impossible.
As impossible as the grumpy fae guarding it.
But in the mythical library world, things are not what they seem, and as for Aline herself… she may be something else. Something more.
Human? Ostensibly so.
Magical? Also.
Doomed? Well… that remains to be seen.
As Areon’s world starts to collapse and her feelings for Roane grow, she will have to decide whether she really wants to leave, or stay and fight for her newfound family.
Dear look inside the book for content warnings and take care of yourself.
410 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
March 31, 2026
I was sold on the title LOL.
I really enjoyed this. The premise was excellent, and while it was an enjoyable read, i found it slow in some parts.
I will definitely read more from this aithor and hope there is a series to come!
I really enjoyed this. The premise was excellent, and while it was an enjoyable read, i found it slow in some parts.
I will definitely read more from this aithor and hope there is a series to come!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, Thank you to the author and DS Book Promotions for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for a truthful review.
I really wanted to love this book, but it was just not for me.
The writing is clunky and disjointed throughout. Sentences don't flow well, and information is given awkwardly. There is a lot of telling not showing the entire time.
Every chapter is from Aline's POV. So Why is her name Aline, but chapters say Adeline. I know that is her real name, but it's not what she goes by, and there are no other POV's.
Aline has a weird relationship with her brother and he was pretty underutilized.
Supposedly Humans and Fae don't mix, yet no one cares about her being raised by fae, or humans flirting with Eiras. But the muleteer suddenly has an issue when they stop in the first town?
About 40% and it starts getting more interesting with the addition of the world inside the library, and the creatures from the books. Roane is a constant contradiction and the "twist" was incredibly easy to spot. Honestly I thought about DNFing many times, and kept hoping things would start making more sense...but all of the characters just kept looping the same conversations and blame games, and I was annoyed.
I didn't love the romance between them because of all of the lies and anger issues. The idea of the library was fun and interesting - and I enjoyed how she was quick to find the story origins and trying to help and stay independent.
Unfortunately it just didn't land well for me.
I really wanted to love this book, but it was just not for me.
The writing is clunky and disjointed throughout. Sentences don't flow well, and information is given awkwardly. There is a lot of telling not showing the entire time.
Every chapter is from Aline's POV. So Why is her name Aline, but chapters say Adeline. I know that is her real name, but it's not what she goes by, and there are no other POV's.
Aline has a weird relationship with her brother and he was pretty underutilized.
Supposedly Humans and Fae don't mix, yet no one cares about her being raised by fae, or humans flirting with Eiras. But the muleteer suddenly has an issue when they stop in the first town?
About 40% and it starts getting more interesting with the addition of the world inside the library, and the creatures from the books. Roane is a constant contradiction and the "twist" was incredibly easy to spot. Honestly I thought about DNFing many times, and kept hoping things would start making more sense...but all of the characters just kept looping the same conversations and blame games, and I was annoyed.
I didn't love the romance between them because of all of the lies and anger issues. The idea of the library was fun and interesting - and I enjoyed how she was quick to find the story origins and trying to help and stay independent.
Unfortunately it just didn't land well for me.
Read
April 17, 2026A Ripple of Pages and Secrets completely swept me away in that rare, almost hypnotic way where every page feels like it’s pulling you deeper, wrapping you in something soft and eerie and impossible to shake. I didn’t just read this story—I wandered through it, got lost in it, and honestly didn’t want to find my way out.
The magic of this book starts with the setting, and I mean that literally. The library isn’t just a place—it’s alive in a way that feels both beautiful and unsettling. The air feels heavy with dust and whispers, the shelves stretch endlessly like they’re hiding more than they reveal, and every book feels like it’s holding its breath, waiting to be opened… or maybe unleashed. As the books here are dangerous, they must be chained, as in the Hogwarts Library, where magical, dangerous books are chained to the shelves. There’s this constant sense that the walls are shifting when you’re not looking, that the story itself is watching you as much as you’re reading it.
Aline made that experience even stronger for me. She’s not instantly powerful or all-knowing—instead, she feels achingly human at the start. Confused, overwhelmed, but stubbornly curious. And that curiosity becomes her strength. Watching her slowly peel back the layers of the library—and of herself—felt so satisfying. There’s a quiet transformation happening beneath the surface, where fear turns into determination, and uncertainty turns into something sharper, more confident. By the end, she doesn’t just survive the library—she belongs in it, and that shift felt earned in every sense as she struggles between giving the magical book, which contains a voice, to the library and keeping it to discover its secrets.
And then there’s Roane.
He’s the kind of character who feels carved out of shadows and secrets. Cold at first, distant in a way that feels deliberate, like every word he says is measured and held back. But the longer you sit with him, the more those cracks start to show—small moments of restraint, flickers of something softer that he refuses to name. The tension between him and Aline is electric, but not in an obvious way. It’s quiet, simmering, built in glances and half-truths, and the kind of proximity that forces two people to feel each other before they’re ready to admit it.
Their relationship doesn’t rush. It unfolds. And that made every shift, every moment of trust, feel incredibly meaningful. And the very last minutes of this book are the words that sealed it for me as a 5-star read. The author drops an epic twist, and I like wait, wait, no, that can not be the end for now.
If you love stories that feel like stepping into a living, breathing world—ones filled with slow-burn tension, layered magic, and a haunting sense of mystery—this book is absolutely worth your time.
Just be careful… some stories don’t let you go once you’ve found them.
The magic of this book starts with the setting, and I mean that literally. The library isn’t just a place—it’s alive in a way that feels both beautiful and unsettling. The air feels heavy with dust and whispers, the shelves stretch endlessly like they’re hiding more than they reveal, and every book feels like it’s holding its breath, waiting to be opened… or maybe unleashed. As the books here are dangerous, they must be chained, as in the Hogwarts Library, where magical, dangerous books are chained to the shelves. There’s this constant sense that the walls are shifting when you’re not looking, that the story itself is watching you as much as you’re reading it.
Aline made that experience even stronger for me. She’s not instantly powerful or all-knowing—instead, she feels achingly human at the start. Confused, overwhelmed, but stubbornly curious. And that curiosity becomes her strength. Watching her slowly peel back the layers of the library—and of herself—felt so satisfying. There’s a quiet transformation happening beneath the surface, where fear turns into determination, and uncertainty turns into something sharper, more confident. By the end, she doesn’t just survive the library—she belongs in it, and that shift felt earned in every sense as she struggles between giving the magical book, which contains a voice, to the library and keeping it to discover its secrets.
And then there’s Roane.
He’s the kind of character who feels carved out of shadows and secrets. Cold at first, distant in a way that feels deliberate, like every word he says is measured and held back. But the longer you sit with him, the more those cracks start to show—small moments of restraint, flickers of something softer that he refuses to name. The tension between him and Aline is electric, but not in an obvious way. It’s quiet, simmering, built in glances and half-truths, and the kind of proximity that forces two people to feel each other before they’re ready to admit it.
Their relationship doesn’t rush. It unfolds. And that made every shift, every moment of trust, feel incredibly meaningful. And the very last minutes of this book are the words that sealed it for me as a 5-star read. The author drops an epic twist, and I like wait, wait, no, that can not be the end for now.
If you love stories that feel like stepping into a living, breathing world—ones filled with slow-burn tension, layered magic, and a haunting sense of mystery—this book is absolutely worth your time.
Just be careful… some stories don’t let you go once you’ve found them.
April 2, 2026
First of all, thank you for this ARC. I am grateful I had the opportunity to read this book.
I tried to love it, the premise was very interesting. A library where stories are alive. 🥲
This book, I almost dnfed several times. The style was not for me. The fmc keeps living in stories, refuses to take accountability for anything. And sure she knows better than the people who have been fighting and living there for centuries while she arrived 5 minutes ago and her only knowledge are through the stories from her mother... 🙄
The ML keeps lying upon lies, hot and then cold. Miscommunication? Check.
And the twist is as subtle as a brick in the face. You see it coming miles away.
I kept waiting for it to make sense, for the brother to be more than just... Here for two chapters? For explanation. Like Greece? Greek gods and mythology in a world that does not have Greece?😑
The redeeming qualities are the secondary characters. Talon and Ardruna.
Writing style... I can't say much but why is every chapter with her name when she is the sole narrator? It's not dual POV. Some sentences and words are so modern that they took me out of the book.
Pretty much everything Melissa Chapman said in her review.
I tried to love it, the premise was very interesting. A library where stories are alive. 🥲
This book, I almost dnfed several times. The style was not for me. The fmc keeps living in stories, refuses to take accountability for anything. And sure she knows better than the people who have been fighting and living there for centuries while she arrived 5 minutes ago and her only knowledge are through the stories from her mother... 🙄
The ML keeps lying upon lies, hot and then cold. Miscommunication? Check.
And the twist is as subtle as a brick in the face. You see it coming miles away.
I kept waiting for it to make sense, for the brother to be more than just... Here for two chapters? For explanation. Like Greece? Greek gods and mythology in a world that does not have Greece?😑
The redeeming qualities are the secondary characters. Talon and Ardruna.
Writing style... I can't say much but why is every chapter with her name when she is the sole narrator? It's not dual POV. Some sentences and words are so modern that they took me out of the book.
Pretty much everything Melissa Chapman said in her review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**🅽︎🅾︎ 🆂︎🅿︎🅾︎🅸︎🅻︎🅴︎🆁︎🆂︎**
𝔻𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕠𝕗- A RIPPLE OF PAGES AND SECRETS BY MONA BLACK
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤-
🗣 (out of 5 stars, my rating scale is at the end)
📚 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/ 5
🌡️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲🌶🌶 / 5 INCREASES WITH EACH BOOK
♟️𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹- >>>🌑<<<
🎃: 𝐶𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑦𝑙𝑒 𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 🌑: 𝑀𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑦 ⚔️: ᵒᵒᵒʰʰʰ ˢᵗᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ••• 💀: 𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 M̶E̶N̶U̶ 😳 -𝑖 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠!! ☠️: P͟I͟T͟C͟H͟ B͟L͟A͟C͟K͟!
𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕀𝕟𝕗𝕠:
•📖# 400 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
•𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝘁? Devoured in one day!
•# single 𝗣𝗢𝗩
•𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲- 31 March 2026
•𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 or 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 driven? A mix
•𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼-MYTHICAL LIBRARY DUET book 1
•𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 on 𝗞𝗨?✅
•𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗲- medium with a steady start and strong finish
•𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲? ✅
•𝗔𝗻𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? (Disability, plus size, mental health etc...)✅
•𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀; 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑪𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒚, 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒚, 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚, some parts are 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒇𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑴𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍, 𝑴𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑻𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆, and 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈.
●𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊
😈𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕤 & 𝔹𝕖𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕪𝕒𝕝𝕤
📚magical library
🤩Epic Side Characters
🦁 Talking animal sidekicks
🪄 Magic
🔥𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧 with dirty talk!
🌡𝕐𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝔸𝕟𝕘𝕤𝕥, 𝕋𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟
🧩𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒚
💈 ᗷᗩᑎTᗴᖇ
🧨𝕊𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕪 𝔽𝕄ℂ
💪𝒜𝓁𝓅𝒽𝒶 ℋℯ𝓇ℴ
🧝♀️𝔽𝕒𝕖
👹𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘
🧌 mythical creatures
🧟♂️ ᗰOᑎՏTᗴᖇ
🌍 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘:
Where do I start with this one! This book is magnificent, it has all the best tropes and evocative imagery, great yearning and really funny animal sidekicks. This one is low ish spice as it’s a slooow burn, but the next book will have plenty of spice so I am told.
The world building starts straight away with a deep look into a young woman struggling to help her family survive. A thief on The run right on page one is where we learn the serious situation both her family and the town is in. Drama right off the bat! We are guided quickly through the town and into her home, as the story progresses we get travelling time and then we get the very mysterious and extremely dangerous, magical library hidden away in a huge mountain.
The world building is detailed and layered and beautiful, the history from the first series ‘The thorn and the shadow’ is sprinkled in this story so I recommend you read that first, it’s not necessary but it will just give you a better understanding and appreciation for the dire situation that the characters are in.
I love drama in books, from steamy moments, foreboding moments and life threatening moments alike, and this story has a bit of each, we battle monsters and creatures out of the depths of old books, we are left salivating overnight in a shack and we get some very dramatic moments all the way through, I think the drama is what makes this book for me, I love the magical library and the adventure, but the moments of drama are plentiful and really set this book apart from the softer side of a romantic fantasy.
As I have read some books by this author before I am clearly a fan of her writing style, the language flows well as does the story and pace.
🧝♂️ ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤:
The side characters are amazing, we have a brother, a magical sentient book and 2 animal sidekicks that are all witty and full of banter. The magical book is named olm, we get a lot of input from him and he becomes almost like a main character as he has a huge amount of mystery surrounding him and as he is sentient we seem to get conversation but there is definitely things he’s hiding and holding back!
As for the main characters in this story, there is a very kind nd loving human FMC who only wants to help but is desperate to explore and live her life. And a sexy smart ass fae mmc who is trapped in the library and has no interest in babysitting a human that has got herself trapped in the library. The chemistry between all the characters sings and the steam that comes from the main to is hot and spicy and full of forbidden fruit style yearning!
However the bird is my fave character I think… what a mouth!
😥 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤?
There are a lot of mysteries in this story, it’s full of adventure and secrets, and I’m inpatient… I got a lot of things to sink my teeth into but not enough hints/ crumbs or answers for my personal liking. I am well aware they will all come in book 2 but like I say… I hate sitting here guessing at everything, I want a little something- GIVE ME A CRUMB! I’m desperate to know more bout the dark fae and her brother and the monsters escaping from the books!
IT ENDS ON A CLIFFY but it’s not devastating, it’s big but manageable.
🪧𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
If you don’t fall naturally into cute and cozy because you need some tension and drama with your warm and fuzzy, then this will be your vibe! Beauty, mystery, secrets, spice, yearning and a bookish FMC make this a great adventure and truly enjoyable read!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to arc read for you, this is my honest review.
𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠;
𝕋𝕚𝕜𝕋𝕠𝕜
https://www.tiktok.com/@your_bookish_...
IᑎՏTᗩ
https://www.instagram.com/your_bookis...
***********************
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕤:
⭐️ DNF
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another author's hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish I didn't start this one as it didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetitive writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people, but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending it to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable. Even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!
SPICE SCALE:
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action
🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, playrooms, and more dark / taboo fantasies and realities.
𝔻𝕖𝕥𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕖𝕕 𝕣𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨 𝕠𝕗- A RIPPLE OF PAGES AND SECRETS BY MONA BLACK
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤-
🗣 (out of 5 stars, my rating scale is at the end)
📚 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/ 5
🌡️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲🌶🌶 / 5 INCREASES WITH EACH BOOK
♟️𝗗𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹- >>>🌑<<<
🎃: 𝐶𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑠𝑦 𝑠𝑡𝑦𝑙𝑒 𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 🌑: 𝑀𝑜𝑟𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑦 𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑦 ⚔️: ᵒᵒᵒʰʰʰ ˢᵗᵃᵇᵇʸ ᵖᵉᵒᵖˡᵉ••• 💀: 𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 M̶E̶N̶U̶ 😳 -𝑖 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑊𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠!! ☠️: P͟I͟T͟C͟H͟ B͟L͟A͟C͟K͟!
𝕂𝕖𝕪 𝕀𝕟𝕗𝕠:
•📖# 400 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀
•𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗶𝘁? Devoured in one day!
•# single 𝗣𝗢𝗩
•𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲- 31 March 2026
•𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 or 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿 driven? A mix
•𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗲 & 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗻𝗼-MYTHICAL LIBRARY DUET book 1
•𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 on 𝗞𝗨?✅
•𝗣𝗮𝗰𝗲- medium with a steady start and strong finish
•𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲? ✅
•𝗔𝗻𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? (Disability, plus size, mental health etc...)✅
•𝗠𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀; 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑪𝒖𝒕𝒆𝒔𝒚, 𝑺𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒎𝒚, 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒚, some parts are 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒅𝒊𝒄𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒔𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒔𝒇𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈, 𝑴𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄𝒂𝒍, 𝑴𝒚𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔, 𝑻𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒆, and 𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈.
●𝕋ℝ𝕆ℙ𝔼𝕊
😈𝕊𝕖𝕔𝕣𝕖𝕥𝕤 & 𝔹𝕖𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕪𝕒𝕝𝕤
📚magical library
🤩Epic Side Characters
🦁 Talking animal sidekicks
🪄 Magic
🔥𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧 with dirty talk!
🌡𝕐𝕖𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝔸𝕟𝕘𝕤𝕥, 𝕋𝕖𝕟𝕤𝕚𝕠𝕟
🧩𝑭𝒐𝒓𝒄𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒙𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒚
💈 ᗷᗩᑎTᗴᖇ
🧨𝕊𝕒𝕤𝕤𝕪 𝔽𝕄ℂ
💪𝒜𝓁𝓅𝒽𝒶 ℋℯ𝓇ℴ
🧝♀️𝔽𝕒𝕖
👹𝖉𝖊𝖒𝖔𝖓𝖘
🧌 mythical creatures
🧟♂️ ᗰOᑎՏTᗴᖇ
🌍 𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕝𝕕 𝕓𝕦𝕚𝕝𝕕𝕚𝕟𝕘, 𝕨𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕡𝕒𝕔𝕚𝕟𝕘:
Where do I start with this one! This book is magnificent, it has all the best tropes and evocative imagery, great yearning and really funny animal sidekicks. This one is low ish spice as it’s a slooow burn, but the next book will have plenty of spice so I am told.
The world building starts straight away with a deep look into a young woman struggling to help her family survive. A thief on The run right on page one is where we learn the serious situation both her family and the town is in. Drama right off the bat! We are guided quickly through the town and into her home, as the story progresses we get travelling time and then we get the very mysterious and extremely dangerous, magical library hidden away in a huge mountain.
The world building is detailed and layered and beautiful, the history from the first series ‘The thorn and the shadow’ is sprinkled in this story so I recommend you read that first, it’s not necessary but it will just give you a better understanding and appreciation for the dire situation that the characters are in.
I love drama in books, from steamy moments, foreboding moments and life threatening moments alike, and this story has a bit of each, we battle monsters and creatures out of the depths of old books, we are left salivating overnight in a shack and we get some very dramatic moments all the way through, I think the drama is what makes this book for me, I love the magical library and the adventure, but the moments of drama are plentiful and really set this book apart from the softer side of a romantic fantasy.
As I have read some books by this author before I am clearly a fan of her writing style, the language flows well as does the story and pace.
🧝♂️ ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕒𝕔𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤:
The side characters are amazing, we have a brother, a magical sentient book and 2 animal sidekicks that are all witty and full of banter. The magical book is named olm, we get a lot of input from him and he becomes almost like a main character as he has a huge amount of mystery surrounding him and as he is sentient we seem to get conversation but there is definitely things he’s hiding and holding back!
As for the main characters in this story, there is a very kind nd loving human FMC who only wants to help but is desperate to explore and live her life. And a sexy smart ass fae mmc who is trapped in the library and has no interest in babysitting a human that has got herself trapped in the library. The chemistry between all the characters sings and the steam that comes from the main to is hot and spicy and full of forbidden fruit style yearning!
However the bird is my fave character I think… what a mouth!
😥 𝕎𝕙𝕪 𝕟𝕠 𝕗𝕚𝕧𝕖 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤?
There are a lot of mysteries in this story, it’s full of adventure and secrets, and I’m inpatient… I got a lot of things to sink my teeth into but not enough hints/ crumbs or answers for my personal liking. I am well aware they will all come in book 2 but like I say… I hate sitting here guessing at everything, I want a little something- GIVE ME A CRUMB! I’m desperate to know more bout the dark fae and her brother and the monsters escaping from the books!
IT ENDS ON A CLIFFY but it’s not devastating, it’s big but manageable.
🪧𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
If you don’t fall naturally into cute and cozy because you need some tension and drama with your warm and fuzzy, then this will be your vibe! Beauty, mystery, secrets, spice, yearning and a bookish FMC make this a great adventure and truly enjoyable read!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to arc read for you, this is my honest review.
𝐹𝑜𝑙𝑙𝑜𝑤 𝑚𝑒 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑖𝑒𝑤𝑠 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑢𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛𝑠;
𝕋𝕚𝕜𝕋𝕠𝕜
https://www.tiktok.com/@your_bookish_...
IᑎՏTᗩ
https://www.instagram.com/your_bookis...
***********************
𝕄𝕪 ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘 𝕊𝕪𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕞𝕤:
⭐️ DNF
⭐️⭐️
I managed to finish it but it was rubbish. I won't keep a physical copy and won't recommend it, but it's a shame as the plot could have made a good book in another author's hands
⭐️⭐️.5
It was OK. I wish I didn't start this one as it didn't do it for me as I struggled to read it. It had an interesting premise that fell flat but I had to see what happened in the end.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don't regret reading it, and I will read the next one, but this one did have a few flaws. [These could be repetitive writing, gaps or plot holes, better character growth or world building, areas needing more detail]
Generally, the book lacked depth and became confusing. The plot resonated with me even though it annoyed me on the whole.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm glad I read it. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to the right people, but I wanted more! Sadly, it's easily forgettable with a few issues I just couldn't overlook/get past.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Good book! I loved it, but... I needed more! I really did enjoy it, but it had a few parts that needed more detail or added history/background or lore. But that's because the story or characters were memorable, and the plot was strong with brilliant twists. I would re-read if I needed to catch up for the next book and would recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Great book! I truly wish the story had been thought about more, or the author had been given more time as this book is so close to brilliance! I will likely read again and will definitely be recommending it to all!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Absolutely amazing book! Well written with great characters and a plot so memorable that it will stay with me. I will definitely read this again, I will be recommending it and sharing it with the whole world! Also- I NEED A PHYSICAL COPY!
🔥⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🔥
This is my God level tier. The book must be perfectly memorable. Even after reading 50+ more books, I will remember character names and emotions along with the plot. If there is a special edition, then I need to own it! If there is a conversation on books- I'm talking about this!
SPICE SCALE:
🌶️– segsual language and a little on-page action
🌶️🌶️– a lot of segsual language and some on-page open door action, may be occurring a couple of times
🌶️🌶️🌶️– a lot of explicit action and dirty talk, occurring frequently with 2/3 lurvers
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – super graphic and explicit, occurring 4 or more times, can be more grey and taboo themed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ – Kinks and Fet!shism, explicit and super graphic. It is likely to be tushy play, toys, playrooms, and more dark / taboo fantasies and realities.
April 4, 2026
Let me preface this by saying reading is one of my hobbies. I don’t read professionally to review or edit; I read for purely for fun and relaxation. I am going to write this review for this specific book solely on enjoyability, readability, story line, and will not be comparing this book to any famous book of the genre (ACOTAR, Fourth Wing, etc). I will however, compare this book to the popular “standard” of the genre.
This book is the 1st of a duology, which is not yet available for review or purchase. If I am given the opportunity to review the following book of this duology, I will do that as well.
For context, I am a voracious reader; reading 60 books last year- all between 300-700 pages. I primarily read Romantasy, Romantic Fantasy, Modern Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, High Fantasy, and Epic Fantasy books, though I have enjoyed Dark Romantasy, Dark Romance, and Dark Romantic Fantasy genres (I like a little magic in my life).
I also will not be including any spoilers in this review.
This book fits squarely in the Romantic Fantasy (Fantasy storyline, Romantic subplot)
For those looking for spice, I would say this book is 1 out of 5 🌶️. There are a couple of spicy scenes, and they are ended abruptly with coinciding “frustration.”
For my review itself, I am going to break it down into several categories: (1) main character and development, (2)setting, (3) backstory/world building, (4) story arc, and (5) other character development.
Again, I will not be including any spoilers in this review.
Please be sure to read any trigger warnings and evaluate whether or not this is a book for you.
On to the review:
1- Main character and development
So, I feel like there really isn’t any “development” of our main character; simply, she is who she is. That’s not necessarily a bad thing: the character is intelligent, strong willed and resourceful; however, the story starts and ends with her being intelligent, strong willed and resourceful- she doesn’t grow, mature or change. She just exists.
2- Setting
This book takes place in a world that is already built and fleshed out by the author. It takes place in the same “universe” as The Thorn and The Shadow Trilogy, called HOLLOW WORLDS.
I have not read any other books that are set in this universe, but having read this, I may read the others, just to understand the universe in which this particular story is set.
3- Backstory/World building
See above. The author states that the reader does not need to have read The Thorn and The Shadows trilogy, but having read this book, without having read the trilogy, I feel like I should have. There are mentions of historical events, that don’t have context, and that’s frustrating.
4- Story arc
To be fair, the premise of the book is unique and interesting. The execution of the idea itself? The book seems unfinished and hurried by the time it closes. We discover one big truth while we read, and the book is finished almost immediately after.
In short: there is a lot of buildup, and an end, but no actual STORY. No arc.
5- Other characters
Honestly, I was far more intrigued by two of the other characters than the FMC and MMC of this book.
This was a FAST read. I do love a fast read. It is a 400ish page book and I read it in about 4.5 hours, not including breaks to get up and stretch, feed the doggos and kitty, and do other various tasks.
That being said, while the premise is unique, the story itself is a bit frustrating. The book just… ends… maybe there will be more development in the next book. I am unsure if I will return to this story in the future.
Maybe I will enjoy it more next time around if I decide to read it again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is the 1st of a duology, which is not yet available for review or purchase. If I am given the opportunity to review the following book of this duology, I will do that as well.
For context, I am a voracious reader; reading 60 books last year- all between 300-700 pages. I primarily read Romantasy, Romantic Fantasy, Modern Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, High Fantasy, and Epic Fantasy books, though I have enjoyed Dark Romantasy, Dark Romance, and Dark Romantic Fantasy genres (I like a little magic in my life).
I also will not be including any spoilers in this review.
This book fits squarely in the Romantic Fantasy (Fantasy storyline, Romantic subplot)
For those looking for spice, I would say this book is 1 out of 5 🌶️. There are a couple of spicy scenes, and they are ended abruptly with coinciding “frustration.”
For my review itself, I am going to break it down into several categories: (1) main character and development, (2)setting, (3) backstory/world building, (4) story arc, and (5) other character development.
Again, I will not be including any spoilers in this review.
Please be sure to read any trigger warnings and evaluate whether or not this is a book for you.
On to the review:
1- Main character and development
So, I feel like there really isn’t any “development” of our main character; simply, she is who she is. That’s not necessarily a bad thing: the character is intelligent, strong willed and resourceful; however, the story starts and ends with her being intelligent, strong willed and resourceful- she doesn’t grow, mature or change. She just exists.
2- Setting
This book takes place in a world that is already built and fleshed out by the author. It takes place in the same “universe” as The Thorn and The Shadow Trilogy, called HOLLOW WORLDS.
I have not read any other books that are set in this universe, but having read this, I may read the others, just to understand the universe in which this particular story is set.
3- Backstory/World building
See above. The author states that the reader does not need to have read The Thorn and The Shadows trilogy, but having read this book, without having read the trilogy, I feel like I should have. There are mentions of historical events, that don’t have context, and that’s frustrating.
4- Story arc
To be fair, the premise of the book is unique and interesting. The execution of the idea itself? The book seems unfinished and hurried by the time it closes. We discover one big truth while we read, and the book is finished almost immediately after.
In short: there is a lot of buildup, and an end, but no actual STORY. No arc.
5- Other characters
Honestly, I was far more intrigued by two of the other characters than the FMC and MMC of this book.
This was a FAST read. I do love a fast read. It is a 400ish page book and I read it in about 4.5 hours, not including breaks to get up and stretch, feed the doggos and kitty, and do other various tasks.
That being said, while the premise is unique, the story itself is a bit frustrating. The book just… ends… maybe there will be more development in the next book. I am unsure if I will return to this story in the future.
Maybe I will enjoy it more next time around if I decide to read it again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 18, 2026
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is the kind of story that feels like stepping into a dream you’re not entirely sure you’ll survive … but you don’t want to wake up from it either.
This book took me a minute to click with, I won’t lie. The beginning felt a little slow for me, especially once we met Olm. At first, he leaned more irritating than endearing, and I couldn’t stop picturing him as the talking book from Ella Enchanted—which… didn’t help. But once Roane entered the picture? Everything shifted.
Roane is the blueprint for a grumpy, brooding, ancient fae male who has absolutely no interest in tolerating other people; and yet, of course, ends up completely entangled with the one person he can’t seem to get rid of. The dynamic between him and Aline is pure grumpy x sunshine gold. Aline is determined, warm, and stubborn in the best way, and she refuses to be intimidated by Roane’s whole “touch me and perish” energy. Watching her chip away at his walls was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.
The setting is where this story really shines. The Library of Areon feels alive in a way that’s both magical and deeply unsettling - like it could protect you or consume you depending on its mood. The concept alone (a deadly, ever-shifting magical library guarded by a cursed fae who can never leave) had me completely hooked. Add in the animal companions (Druna especially, who stole my entire heart) and it creates this strange, found-family dynamic that I didn’t expect but really loved.
That said, the pacing in the first half did drag a bit for me, and it took time to fully feel invested. But once the emotional threads and stakes started tightening, I was all in - especially as we begin to uncover that Aline may be far more than she appears.
On the romance side, this is definitely a slow burn with very minimal spice (around 2/5), which the author is upfront about. Personally, I didn’t mind because the tension is there, and Roane has so much potential as a dangerously compelling love interest. But I am absolutely hoping for more payoff in the sequel because the groundwork has been laid beautifully.
Overall, this is a cozy-but-dangerous romantasy with a unique setting, a compelling grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and a world that feels both whimsical and haunting. It may take a little patience to fully sink into, but once you do, it’s hard not to get lost in its pages.
I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel! I need to know what happens next for Aline, Roane, and their strange, beautiful, crumbling world.
This book took me a minute to click with, I won’t lie. The beginning felt a little slow for me, especially once we met Olm. At first, he leaned more irritating than endearing, and I couldn’t stop picturing him as the talking book from Ella Enchanted—which… didn’t help. But once Roane entered the picture? Everything shifted.
Roane is the blueprint for a grumpy, brooding, ancient fae male who has absolutely no interest in tolerating other people; and yet, of course, ends up completely entangled with the one person he can’t seem to get rid of. The dynamic between him and Aline is pure grumpy x sunshine gold. Aline is determined, warm, and stubborn in the best way, and she refuses to be intimidated by Roane’s whole “touch me and perish” energy. Watching her chip away at his walls was easily one of my favorite parts of the book.
The setting is where this story really shines. The Library of Areon feels alive in a way that’s both magical and deeply unsettling - like it could protect you or consume you depending on its mood. The concept alone (a deadly, ever-shifting magical library guarded by a cursed fae who can never leave) had me completely hooked. Add in the animal companions (Druna especially, who stole my entire heart) and it creates this strange, found-family dynamic that I didn’t expect but really loved.
That said, the pacing in the first half did drag a bit for me, and it took time to fully feel invested. But once the emotional threads and stakes started tightening, I was all in - especially as we begin to uncover that Aline may be far more than she appears.
On the romance side, this is definitely a slow burn with very minimal spice (around 2/5), which the author is upfront about. Personally, I didn’t mind because the tension is there, and Roane has so much potential as a dangerously compelling love interest. But I am absolutely hoping for more payoff in the sequel because the groundwork has been laid beautifully.
Overall, this is a cozy-but-dangerous romantasy with a unique setting, a compelling grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and a world that feels both whimsical and haunting. It may take a little patience to fully sink into, but once you do, it’s hard not to get lost in its pages.
I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel! I need to know what happens next for Aline, Roane, and their strange, beautiful, crumbling world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is the first installment in a two-book series centered around an enchanted library. The story follows Aline, a human raised by a fae family. Her mother—a royal librarian, storyteller, and healer—taught her everything she knows about healing arts, literature, and the power of stories. When Aline discovers a magical book capable of manipulating others to carry out its will, she sets out on a journey to deliver it to the mystical library of Areon. What begins as a simple mission quickly turns into something far greater. The library itself is an entirely different realm, inhabited by characters and creatures that have escaped from their stories. Along the way, Aline meets Roane, the fae guardian of the library, who protects her but is reluctant to have her there. Despite this, there seems to be no way for her to leave.
I truly enjoyed this book—once I started, it was hard to put down. From the beginning, I was intrigued by Olm, the magical book being returned to the library. I also loved Aline’s brother, who accompanies her on the journey. He’s kind, protective, and everything you’d want in an older sibling. I’m really curious about what became of him—does he continue searching for Aline? Did the dark fae harm him? I hope these questions are answered in the second book, or maybe he’ll even get a story of his own. Once Aline arrives at the library, the pace picks up with nonstop action and adventure. Since this is part of a duet, the book ends on a cliffhanger—but it definitely left me eager to find out what happens next.
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is the first installment in a two-book series centered around an enchanted library. The story follows Aline, a human raised by a fae family. Her mother—a royal librarian, storyteller, and healer—taught her everything she knows about healing arts, literature, and the power of stories. When Aline discovers a magical book capable of manipulating others to carry out its will, she sets out on a journey to deliver it to the mystical library of Areon. What begins as a simple mission quickly turns into something far greater. The library itself is an entirely different realm, inhabited by characters and creatures that have escaped from their stories. Along the way, Aline meets Roane, the fae guardian of the library, who protects her but is reluctant to have her there. Despite this, there seems to be no way for her to leave.
I truly enjoyed this book—once I started, it was hard to put down. From the beginning, I was intrigued by Olm, the magical book being returned to the library. I also loved Aline’s brother, who accompanies her on the journey. He’s kind, protective, and everything you’d want in an older sibling. I’m really curious about what became of him—does he continue searching for Aline? Did the dark fae harm him? I hope these questions are answered in the second book, or maybe he’ll even get a story of his own. Once Aline arrives at the library, the pace picks up with nonstop action and adventure. Since this is part of a duet, the book ends on a cliffhanger—but it definitely left me eager to find out what happens next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 9, 2026
I loved the tropes that was advertised for this book. I've always been drawn to the idea of magical libraries. I enjoyed the start of the book and the world the author began to build, however, I began to struggle with the characters and pacing around half way through the book. I was intrigued at first, especially once we get into the library but to me, that's where the story stalled. It felt a bit repetitive and I was losing interest since there wasn't much development with the story or characters.
I didn't see much development with the characters at the end of the book, not as much as I had hoped. It was a little frustrating to see the characters get hot and cold with each other, maybe to the point where it was annoying. The romance wasn't as believable as I wanted either. The author did do a good job creating a world I could get immersed into but I noticed some writing prose that confused me as I read but I was able to keep reading.
The ending was ok and did pique my curiosity as to what the characters will do next. I do like the animal characters since they add personality where the MMC lacks much. I like the world within the library but it lacked some logic to me as to how and why the magic works but I understand it's part of the story. I think I wanted more magic and more explanations about the world or explorations of the books.
Ultimately, I'm curious to know what happens next but hope we get a lot of development and revelations in the next book.
2.3 out of 5 rating for me!
(An ARC was provided for an honest review. I leave this review voluntarily.)
I didn't see much development with the characters at the end of the book, not as much as I had hoped. It was a little frustrating to see the characters get hot and cold with each other, maybe to the point where it was annoying. The romance wasn't as believable as I wanted either. The author did do a good job creating a world I could get immersed into but I noticed some writing prose that confused me as I read but I was able to keep reading.
The ending was ok and did pique my curiosity as to what the characters will do next. I do like the animal characters since they add personality where the MMC lacks much. I like the world within the library but it lacked some logic to me as to how and why the magic works but I understand it's part of the story. I think I wanted more magic and more explanations about the world or explorations of the books.
Ultimately, I'm curious to know what happens next but hope we get a lot of development and revelations in the next book.
2.3 out of 5 rating for me!
(An ARC was provided for an honest review. I leave this review voluntarily.)
Review of advance copy
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is a new MF high fantasy by author Mona (Black) Archer. That is filled with magic and wonder.
I'm a little conflicted about this one. The story was unique, and Mona did a fantastic job with the world-building. A vast, fantastical world inside a library filled with all sorts of creatures and magic. I mean, come on, how could I not love it? Most of the creatures weren't the friendliest type, so there was a fair amount of action and danger. Mona did a great job of balancing all that with the bookish aspects, which I enjoyed. There were also lovable animal sidekicks and a fair bit of mystery surrounding both of the MCs.
The problem for me was the MCs. At first, I liked Aline; she's a rash human thief who loves her adoptive fae family. It was her love of books—well, all stories, really—that really made me like her. However, as the story progressed, my feelings began to shift. I soon found Aline to be bratty, a little inconsiderate, and beyond stubborn. Even when she knew she was in the wrong, she rarely backed down. Roane was a grump most of the time. He was too hot and cold for me to get a read on him. Nevertheless, for the most part, the story was interesting and unique. I have so many questions, including some about both Aline and Roane, plus what is up with that book? Overall, A Ripple of Pages and Secrets was a good read, nice if you are looking for a new fantasy read that starts off with low stakes.
I'm a little conflicted about this one. The story was unique, and Mona did a fantastic job with the world-building. A vast, fantastical world inside a library filled with all sorts of creatures and magic. I mean, come on, how could I not love it? Most of the creatures weren't the friendliest type, so there was a fair amount of action and danger. Mona did a great job of balancing all that with the bookish aspects, which I enjoyed. There were also lovable animal sidekicks and a fair bit of mystery surrounding both of the MCs.
The problem for me was the MCs. At first, I liked Aline; she's a rash human thief who loves her adoptive fae family. It was her love of books—well, all stories, really—that really made me like her. However, as the story progressed, my feelings began to shift. I soon found Aline to be bratty, a little inconsiderate, and beyond stubborn. Even when she knew she was in the wrong, she rarely backed down. Roane was a grump most of the time. He was too hot and cold for me to get a read on him. Nevertheless, for the most part, the story was interesting and unique. I have so many questions, including some about both Aline and Roane, plus what is up with that book? Overall, A Ripple of Pages and Secrets was a good read, nice if you are looking for a new fantasy read that starts off with low stakes.
April 12, 2026
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets has a premise that was very interesting, a magical, sentient library where stories come to life and books must be chained down for safety. The atmosphere is thick with mystery, and I genuinely enjoyed the concept of the Library of Areon and the dangerous creatures that inhabit it.
While the setting was enchanting, the execution left me feeling a bit disconnected. My main struggle was with the storybook characters and the world-building. At several points, I felt like I was missing crucial background information or context regarding the history of the library and its inhabitants. It felt as though I had stepped into the middle of a larger saga without a recap, making it hard to fully grasp the stakes for characters like Roane and his animal companions.
The romantic evolution between Aline and Roane felt off to me. Their relationship moved in a way that felt inconsistent swinging between intense hostility and deep yearning without enough of the in between moments to make the shift feel earned. The slow burn had great potential, but the lack of steady development made the eventual payoff feel a bit rushed.
The book ended on a cliff hanger, just enough to make me interested in what happens next.
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets has a premise that was very interesting, a magical, sentient library where stories come to life and books must be chained down for safety. The atmosphere is thick with mystery, and I genuinely enjoyed the concept of the Library of Areon and the dangerous creatures that inhabit it.
While the setting was enchanting, the execution left me feeling a bit disconnected. My main struggle was with the storybook characters and the world-building. At several points, I felt like I was missing crucial background information or context regarding the history of the library and its inhabitants. It felt as though I had stepped into the middle of a larger saga without a recap, making it hard to fully grasp the stakes for characters like Roane and his animal companions.
The romantic evolution between Aline and Roane felt off to me. Their relationship moved in a way that felt inconsistent swinging between intense hostility and deep yearning without enough of the in between moments to make the shift feel earned. The slow burn had great potential, but the lack of steady development made the eventual payoff feel a bit rushed.
The book ended on a cliff hanger, just enough to make me interested in what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off thank you to the author, booksprout and DS Book Promotions for gifting me an ARC of this book in exchange for a truthful review.
Mona Archer's A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is a hauntingly beautiful journey through the delicate balance of past and present, where every page turned unravels another layer of hidden truths. The book is a web of mystery, nostalgia, and subtle suspense, with characters whose motivations often seem just out of reach, keeping you guessing at every turn. Mona's elegant prose carries an undercurrent of tension, like the story's waiting to spill its secrets.
The pacing is smooth, though it occasionally lingers a bit too long in certain spots. There's an undeniable charm in Archer's writing style, pulling you in with quiet moments that eventually give way to revelations. While the book delivers in emotional depth, I wished for a more dramatic shift, something to push the story to a higher level of intensity.
The plot's engaging, but felt a little too comfortable at times, not as sharp as it could've been. The characters are endearing, and their journeys, though layered, are somewhat predictable. Still, A Ripple of Pages and Secrets offers a rich tapestry of emotion, secrets, and quiet twists that'll keep you coming back for more.
Mona Archer's A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is a hauntingly beautiful journey through the delicate balance of past and present, where every page turned unravels another layer of hidden truths. The book is a web of mystery, nostalgia, and subtle suspense, with characters whose motivations often seem just out of reach, keeping you guessing at every turn. Mona's elegant prose carries an undercurrent of tension, like the story's waiting to spill its secrets.
The pacing is smooth, though it occasionally lingers a bit too long in certain spots. There's an undeniable charm in Archer's writing style, pulling you in with quiet moments that eventually give way to revelations. While the book delivers in emotional depth, I wished for a more dramatic shift, something to push the story to a higher level of intensity.
The plot's engaging, but felt a little too comfortable at times, not as sharp as it could've been. The characters are endearing, and their journeys, though layered, are somewhat predictable. Still, A Ripple of Pages and Secrets offers a rich tapestry of emotion, secrets, and quiet twists that'll keep you coming back for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
📖✨️ARC Review✨️📖
First of all, a big thank you to the author for the advance copy.
The premise of this book genuinely intrigued me. There were so many elements I loved in theory, like the magical beasts, talking animal companions, a sentient, snarky magical book and Aline’s unique power tied to the library. The small tales woven throughout were a lovely touch and added charm to the world.
That said, I struggled a bit with the execution. The writing felt somewhat clunky at times and a few phrases felt too modern for the setting, which pulled me out of the world. Some of the dialogue leaned a little juvenile for my taste, and I personally found the plot twists quite predictable.
I really wanted to love Roane, but the constant push-and-pull dynamic and the lies/keeping secrets became a bit exhausting. Still, I’m curious enough to see where the story goes in book two, which says something.
Overall, I don’t think this was a 'bad' book at all. It has strong ideas and creative concepts, but I do think it could have benefited from more time and tighter editing to truly shine.
First of all, a big thank you to the author for the advance copy.
The premise of this book genuinely intrigued me. There were so many elements I loved in theory, like the magical beasts, talking animal companions, a sentient, snarky magical book and Aline’s unique power tied to the library. The small tales woven throughout were a lovely touch and added charm to the world.
That said, I struggled a bit with the execution. The writing felt somewhat clunky at times and a few phrases felt too modern for the setting, which pulled me out of the world. Some of the dialogue leaned a little juvenile for my taste, and I personally found the plot twists quite predictable.
I really wanted to love Roane, but the constant push-and-pull dynamic and the lies/keeping secrets became a bit exhausting. Still, I’m curious enough to see where the story goes in book two, which says something.
Overall, I don’t think this was a 'bad' book at all. It has strong ideas and creative concepts, but I do think it could have benefited from more time and tighter editing to truly shine.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what a story! It truly had so many twists and turns, making me feel a lot of emotions while reading. From intrigue to anger, longing, and even lots of laughter, this book took me on a journey. The ending wasn't quite what I would have liked—I'm definitely a happy ending kind of girlie, so I struggled a bit with that part! But, I did find many noteworthy quotes that I'm excited to share:
"I will show you what I get you witless son of a legless lizard" Eiras starts over to the caravan.
"Finally your back " Olm says sounding breathless. "I thought you abandoned me here _"
"Shush the raven is right you're heavy."
"Thanks I have a lot of backstory"
"What are you going to do? You wouldn't throw me like that_"
Talton says "I bet you he got worse because hes love struck being in love is agony"
I laugh I cant help it. "Very funny"
"I am a funny bird mark my words"
"Lovley nice to know i can annoy someone so much their character changes just for me its an honor"
"Don't you recall the centaurs?"
"OH yeah! Those bastards took me!" he hops around agitated.
"I will show you what I get you witless son of a legless lizard" Eiras starts over to the caravan.
"Finally your back " Olm says sounding breathless. "I thought you abandoned me here _"
"Shush the raven is right you're heavy."
"Thanks I have a lot of backstory"
"What are you going to do? You wouldn't throw me like that_"
Talton says "I bet you he got worse because hes love struck being in love is agony"
I laugh I cant help it. "Very funny"
"I am a funny bird mark my words"
"Lovley nice to know i can annoy someone so much their character changes just for me its an honor"
"Don't you recall the centaurs?"
"OH yeah! Those bastards took me!" he hops around agitated.
March 31, 2026
Magic, Mystery, and Slow Burn Feels
I had a really good time with this one. The idea of a magical library that’s equal parts wonder and danger pulled me in right away, and it stays engaging throughout. The setting feels vivid without being overwhelming, and I liked how the world gradually reveals its rules and secrets.
Aline is easy to root for, especially as she’s thrown into a situation she barely understands, and Roane delivers exactly what you’d want from a brooding fae guardian. Their dynamic has a nice push and pull that kept things interesting, with just enough tension and warmth to make it work.
The mix of magic, danger, and quiet emotional moments kept me invested, and I especially enjoyed the sense of mystery woven through the story. If you like romantasy with immersive settings, magical creatures, and a reluctant partnership that grows into something more, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I had a really good time with this one. The idea of a magical library that’s equal parts wonder and danger pulled me in right away, and it stays engaging throughout. The setting feels vivid without being overwhelming, and I liked how the world gradually reveals its rules and secrets.
Aline is easy to root for, especially as she’s thrown into a situation she barely understands, and Roane delivers exactly what you’d want from a brooding fae guardian. Their dynamic has a nice push and pull that kept things interesting, with just enough tension and warmth to make it work.
The mix of magic, danger, and quiet emotional moments kept me invested, and I especially enjoyed the sense of mystery woven through the story. If you like romantasy with immersive settings, magical creatures, and a reluctant partnership that grows into something more, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received an advanced copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Autor
3.5/5⭐ Thank you Mona for this advance copy 💫
I really loved the idea of dangerous books and a magical library that could keep them locked inside. About the concept of a Fae vs Humans world, and ancient tales. But the pacing and dialogs felt a bit slow and repetitive for me.
Aline was great, and really interesting at the beginning but then, I had the impression she only cared about Roane's thoughts about her. Roane, on the other hand, was a mystery, the centuries-old guardian Fae, with a lot of secrets, and not enough patience. I always enjoy the stoic and broody kind, but he had too many ups and downs, and was way too mean with Aline.
I loved the side characters, the book, the raven and the lioness. They were funny and intriguing!
The book ends with an interesting plot twist and a cliffhanger to continue in the final part of this Duet!
Here are the Tropes:
Bookish Human Girl
Warrior Fae
Animal Companions
Monsters
Magical Books & Worlds
Forced Proximity
Secrets & Lies
I really loved the idea of dangerous books and a magical library that could keep them locked inside. About the concept of a Fae vs Humans world, and ancient tales. But the pacing and dialogs felt a bit slow and repetitive for me.
Aline was great, and really interesting at the beginning but then, I had the impression she only cared about Roane's thoughts about her. Roane, on the other hand, was a mystery, the centuries-old guardian Fae, with a lot of secrets, and not enough patience. I always enjoy the stoic and broody kind, but he had too many ups and downs, and was way too mean with Aline.
I loved the side characters, the book, the raven and the lioness. They were funny and intriguing!
The book ends with an interesting plot twist and a cliffhanger to continue in the final part of this Duet!
Here are the Tropes:
Bookish Human Girl
Warrior Fae
Animal Companions
Monsters
Magical Books & Worlds
Forced Proximity
Secrets & Lies
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Aline is a human, raised by a fae family with her mother as a former librarian and a storyteller.
Aline had in turn inherited the love for stories.
One day she picks up a book that turns out to be magical. Urged by her mother, she and her brother set out to deliver the book back to it's rightful place in the legendary library of Areon.
I wanted to like this book, but unfortunately in some aspects really did not fit my taste.
The premise was so good and the book started strong. I loved the magical elements here, especially a library that contained books that can unleash monsters. That is very appealing to me! I also love a glimpse of the tales Aline is taught throughout the story.
And at the very end though, I really just have more questions than answers. That might be the author's intention, but it's just not the plot resolution I prefer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Aline had in turn inherited the love for stories.
One day she picks up a book that turns out to be magical. Urged by her mother, she and her brother set out to deliver the book back to it's rightful place in the legendary library of Areon.
I wanted to like this book, but unfortunately in some aspects really did not fit my taste.
The premise was so good and the book started strong. I loved the magical elements here, especially a library that contained books that can unleash monsters. That is very appealing to me! I also love a glimpse of the tales Aline is taught throughout the story.
And at the very end though, I really just have more questions than answers. That might be the author's intention, but it's just not the plot resolution I prefer.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2026
Thank you Mona Archer for lettig me ARC read
I wanted to LOVE this… and honestly? I kind of did 🖤📚
✨ A Ripple of Pages and Secrets — ★★★★½ ✨
This book had SUCH a top-tier premise:
– a legendary library where books can unleash monsters 😳
– a sentient, snarky magical book (iconic)
– “small tales” woven in that made the world feel so alive
And Aline?? her power + the talking animal companions = exactly my vibe 🫶
BUT here’s the honest take 👇
💭 the writing is beautiful—very soft, emotional, and immersive
💭 the beginning pacing? chef’s kiss
…but:
– some dialogue felt a little too modern/juvenile and pulled me out
– the Aline & Roane dynamic = a LOT of back-and-forth + secrets (it got tiring)
– I wanted HIGHER stakes… it felt a bit safe at times
– a few twists were predictable
– the ending??? more questions than answers (duet setup maybe 👀)
✨ overall ✨
this is NOT a bad book at all—it’s actually really creative and emotional, just needed a bit more polish to be a 5⭐️ for me and honestly? I’m still intrigued enough to read book 2 👀
I wanted to LOVE this… and honestly? I kind of did 🖤📚
✨ A Ripple of Pages and Secrets — ★★★★½ ✨
This book had SUCH a top-tier premise:
– a legendary library where books can unleash monsters 😳
– a sentient, snarky magical book (iconic)
– “small tales” woven in that made the world feel so alive
And Aline?? her power + the talking animal companions = exactly my vibe 🫶
BUT here’s the honest take 👇
💭 the writing is beautiful—very soft, emotional, and immersive
💭 the beginning pacing? chef’s kiss
…but:
– some dialogue felt a little too modern/juvenile and pulled me out
– the Aline & Roane dynamic = a LOT of back-and-forth + secrets (it got tiring)
– I wanted HIGHER stakes… it felt a bit safe at times
– a few twists were predictable
– the ending??? more questions than answers (duet setup maybe 👀)
✨ overall ✨
this is NOT a bad book at all—it’s actually really creative and emotional, just needed a bit more polish to be a 5⭐️ for me and honestly? I’m still intrigued enough to read book 2 👀
March 20, 2026
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets by Mona Archer
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, Mona, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is book in a duet with a world with a magic library, fae, magical tales, mythical creatures, and so much more. I loved how our thief of an FMC is so knowledgeable due to her mother, who was a royal librarian turned healer.
I enjoyed all parts of this book. From the hilarious sibling banter at the beginning of the book to Olm (a magic book) to meeting those in the library and so on. But I have to say my favorite piece was the amazing world-building. I truly just couldn't get enough of it. It was just the right amount of detail to draw us in and place us in its very world.
I will be impatiently waiting for book two and I hope you all check it out! 🥰
5 out of 5 stars
ARC
Thank you, Mona, for this early copy. All parts of this review are of my honest opinion 💚
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets is book in a duet with a world with a magic library, fae, magical tales, mythical creatures, and so much more. I loved how our thief of an FMC is so knowledgeable due to her mother, who was a royal librarian turned healer.
I enjoyed all parts of this book. From the hilarious sibling banter at the beginning of the book to Olm (a magic book) to meeting those in the library and so on. But I have to say my favorite piece was the amazing world-building. I truly just couldn't get enough of it. It was just the right amount of detail to draw us in and place us in its very world.
I will be impatiently waiting for book two and I hope you all check it out! 🥰
March 29, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author.
I loved that this was part of the same universe as The Thorn and The Shadow trilogy. I had so many questions about what the other worlds were like, and I have some theories about how some of this world is connected to the other one. I loved the magic system and the world within a world within a world vibes. I loved the animal sidekicks, always a favourite trope for me. My only complaint is that the dialogue felt very juvenile and didn’t flow well, this happened a little for me in the final book of The Thorn and The Shadow series, but this felt extra juvenile. I think simply because this was a dialogue heavy book that it was so much more noticeable. I am still very excited to see wha tales please in the second book though. Thank you to Mona for the ARC copy!
I loved that this was part of the same universe as The Thorn and The Shadow trilogy. I had so many questions about what the other worlds were like, and I have some theories about how some of this world is connected to the other one. I loved the magic system and the world within a world within a world vibes. I loved the animal sidekicks, always a favourite trope for me. My only complaint is that the dialogue felt very juvenile and didn’t flow well, this happened a little for me in the final book of The Thorn and The Shadow series, but this felt extra juvenile. I think simply because this was a dialogue heavy book that it was so much more noticeable. I am still very excited to see wha tales please in the second book though. Thank you to Mona for the ARC copy!
April 1, 2026
I was enticed to return to the Nine Realms following on from the previous series and I wasn’t disappointed.
This story was intriguing in nature and I wasn’t sure how it would go but our FMC is tough as nails and full of knowledge when it comes to books. I have read many books that involve worlds within libraries but not one such as this where the characters can escape and create their own world within a world.
Roane has his moments and sometimes it’s hard to tell what is actually going on as he is very secretive in nature and not forthcoming with information. Talton and Ardruna are great animal sidekicks who help add to the story.
That cliff hanger while not brutal makes you start to question what’s really going on in this magical world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story was intriguing in nature and I wasn’t sure how it would go but our FMC is tough as nails and full of knowledge when it comes to books. I have read many books that involve worlds within libraries but not one such as this where the characters can escape and create their own world within a world.
Roane has his moments and sometimes it’s hard to tell what is actually going on as he is very secretive in nature and not forthcoming with information. Talton and Ardruna are great animal sidekicks who help add to the story.
That cliff hanger while not brutal makes you start to question what’s really going on in this magical world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Ripple of Pages and Secrets, book one of a duet, is a delicious take of a magical library, which has as its core purpose the duty of restraining dangerous magical books. The premise is intriguing, and the idea that all stories and tales have inherent magic aligns with my own secretly harbored beliefs. I love how Archer, through the characters of Aline and Roane, makes the reader question where the lives are between the take and reality-and are we all just living a story in our own book? Who is reading it? It’s a concept I love to consider and puzzle about. You will be immediately drawn into this book, and I am positive you will love it as much as I did. I can’t wait to read the second and final book to find out how the tales intertwine…
March 22, 2026
This book is the first in a duet about a magical library. Aline has been raised by a fae family, thieving to make ends meet. She finds a magical book that wants to be taken to the palace. Her mother, a royal librarian, says that the book must be taken to the Library of Areon which is overseen by the warrior librarian. It is the job of the librarian to guard the most dangerous books and to ensure that the monsters that escape them do not enter the world.
The book is well written with a quick pace. The characters are likeable and relatable and the other creatures that dwell in the library are well written. This book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book is well written with a quick pace. The characters are likeable and relatable and the other creatures that dwell in the library are well written. This book ends on a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2026
I really enjoyed this novel, it is different to the romantasy books I normally read in so much as it is set in a world within a world. I liked Adeline and thought she was portrayed very well as a young, naive in some ways, woman who has found herself trying to find the Library of Aelon, and as the story progresses you realise that there is more to her, and subsequently the MMC, than first thought. I didn't like the MMC at first but he grew on me as the story unfolded. The story is well written and drew me in making me invested in what was going on but the twist near to the end got me though..... Well written and drew me in, ensuring I'm looking forward to Book 2 and would definitely 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.
April 21, 2026
This captivated me from the moment I heard “magical Library” and held me through every last moment. I mean who doesn’t want to get trapped in a magical library simply by delivering a book?
That’s exactly what Aline first thinks when she enters but gets trapped but soon learns just how dangerous the library is!! Roane….. has a grumpy broody demeanour but I’m sure there’s reasons? So many tension scenes and a plot I refuse to spoil!
I would say that the storyline was what kept me hooked.The tension and grumpy nature of broody fae x human is sublimely satisfying. But more so I need more Aline and Roane!!! So many melting my heart scenes!!!! Gah!!! Makes me so happy to have read about them!!!
This is book 1 of a Duet and I cannot wait to read Book 2!
That’s exactly what Aline first thinks when she enters but gets trapped but soon learns just how dangerous the library is!! Roane….. has a grumpy broody demeanour but I’m sure there’s reasons? So many tension scenes and a plot I refuse to spoil!
I would say that the storyline was what kept me hooked.The tension and grumpy nature of broody fae x human is sublimely satisfying. But more so I need more Aline and Roane!!! So many melting my heart scenes!!!! Gah!!! Makes me so happy to have read about them!!!
This is book 1 of a Duet and I cannot wait to read Book 2!
Review of advance copy
This book had an interesting premise and kept me reading to find out more about the world. The idea of magic books isn't new, but I found the way the FMC interacted with the world inside the magic library to be a cool take on the idea.
I found myself more invested in the supporting characters - the book, the lion, and the raven - than the FMC (who I found kind of whiny) or MMC (who was a little too grumpy and brooding). The development of the relationship between the FMC and MMC felt unnatural and spicy scenes in the book felt forced. The ending was jarring and abrupt even for a cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found myself more invested in the supporting characters - the book, the lion, and the raven - than the FMC (who I found kind of whiny) or MMC (who was a little too grumpy and brooding). The development of the relationship between the FMC and MMC felt unnatural and spicy scenes in the book felt forced. The ending was jarring and abrupt even for a cliffhanger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2026
I really really liked this book. The library world is well thought out and built up. The characters each have very distinct personalities so it gives more of a real feeling to them. I liked the push and pull between the main characters. While it could go hot and cold very quickly it makes sense in context of the book. I did end up figuring out the twist a bit before it’s actually revealed but only because I put the puzzle pieces together. I didn’t feel it was very obvious either so I was actually really excited I was able to put it together. Over all I really liked this book and am super excited to see what happens next!
April 2, 2026
This is Book 1 of the Mythical Library Duet. And a FANrastic start it is! Look forward to more from this world
'A romantasy about a human girl who gets trapped in a magical and dangerous library world together with its brooding fae guardian.
Magical books and libraries are dangerous.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'A romantasy about a human girl who gets trapped in a magical and dangerous library world together with its brooding fae guardian.
Magical books and libraries are dangerous.'
The characters were very appealing and likeable and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and exciting and well paced. World building was excellent and impressive. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend!
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
I love the premise, the world building is phenomenal, and the side characters are amazing. But the FMC and MMC are just chasing their tails in a game of hot and cold, lust, and disdain, that is infuriating. I can take a couple rounds of tolerating the MMCs' lies, rudeness, and physical game of hot and cold but nearly 400 pages of the same song and dance? Insufferable.
The storyline has so much promise, and I want to love this book so much because of that. But after how little we learned in book 1 and the last 10 pages speed running knowledge to a cliffhanger that was obvious, I am dubious.
I love the premise, the world building is phenomenal, and the side characters are amazing. But the FMC and MMC are just chasing their tails in a game of hot and cold, lust, and disdain, that is infuriating. I can take a couple rounds of tolerating the MMCs' lies, rudeness, and physical game of hot and cold but nearly 400 pages of the same song and dance? Insufferable.
The storyline has so much promise, and I want to love this book so much because of that. But after how little we learned in book 1 and the last 10 pages speed running knowledge to a cliffhanger that was obvious, I am dubious.
April 1, 2026
This book was an adventure that draws the reader in from the get go! Full of mythical realms and creatures that grasp at your wildest imagination! Aline has her hand forced into taking a magical book to the Library of Areon for safe keeping. But what she discovers inside that library is far beyond what she could have ever imagined!! But danger lurks around every corner. As she traverses and adapts to this new reality, she also finds that there is more to the library’s guardian than meets the eye. A must read for those who love an epic Romantasy!
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