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Thrones of the Forsaken #1
Labyrinthine
Not yet published
Expected 12 May 26Every generation, the gods take their due. This time, they might take her.
Princess Azhara was born cursed. Marked by ancient magic. Promised to an unholy bargain sealed in blood. When the Reaping begins, suitors will descend into the labyrinth beneath the palace—each one fighting to win her hand or die trying.
She's never had a choice. Not in the Reaping. Not in her future. Not even in the power buried beneath her skin.
Until now.
The golden prince arrives with charm too slick to trust and eyes that gleam with secrets. Her quiet guardian—once her only constant—has begun to keep dangerous truths from her. And as the labyrinth trials unfold, Azhara realizes the maze isn't her only trap.
It's the men. One lies. One loves. One kills. And she's not sure which is which.
As suitors fall and secrets surface, Azhara must choose what's worth saving—her kingdom, her heart, or herself.
Princess Azhara was born cursed. Marked by ancient magic. Promised to an unholy bargain sealed in blood. When the Reaping begins, suitors will descend into the labyrinth beneath the palace—each one fighting to win her hand or die trying.
She's never had a choice. Not in the Reaping. Not in her future. Not even in the power buried beneath her skin.
Until now.
The golden prince arrives with charm too slick to trust and eyes that gleam with secrets. Her quiet guardian—once her only constant—has begun to keep dangerous truths from her. And as the labyrinth trials unfold, Azhara realizes the maze isn't her only trap.
It's the men. One lies. One loves. One kills. And she's not sure which is which.
As suitors fall and secrets surface, Azhara must choose what's worth saving—her kingdom, her heart, or herself.
Audible Audio
Expected publication May 12, 2026
222 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Holmes
15 books152 followersCJ Holmes lives in England, where it's cold and damp, and it's always raining - which provides her with enough time to write stories about magic, fantasy and romance. She'd like to escape to somewhere warm but that might mean that she spends too much time sunbathing and not enough time writing books.
She lives in a quaint English cottage which would have one of those idyllic gardens if her fingers weren't the opposite of green. Fortunately, her husband and children don't seem to mind that almost everything she tries to grow ends up dead. She enjoys drinking wine and gin, which conveniently coincides with her love of reading and writing, as well as running and watching bad TV shows. You have been warned....
Instagram ➜ @cjholmes_writing
Find me on threads ➜ @cjholmes_writing
She lives in a quaint English cottage which would have one of those idyllic gardens if her fingers weren't the opposite of green. Fortunately, her husband and children don't seem to mind that almost everything she tries to grow ends up dead. She enjoys drinking wine and gin, which conveniently coincides with her love of reading and writing, as well as running and watching bad TV shows. You have been warned....
Instagram ➜ @cjholmes_writing
Find me on threads ➜ @cjholmes_writing
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 28, 2026
Holy love triangle!!!!
I am not typically a love triangle lover, and this one had me emotionally spiraling in the best and most frustrating way. One minute I knew exactly who I wanted Azahara with, and the next I was completely convinced she should choose the other. The internal conflict was REAL but honestly, that just shows how well it was written.
What really stood out to me was Azahara’s character growth. Watching her move from a life shaped by expectations and lack of choice into someone willing to claim her own future was incredibly satisfying. There is something powerful about a heroine who learns to trust herself and ultimately gets to decide what her life will be.
The world-building is rich without feeling overwhelming, and the descriptive writing makes everything feel vivid and immersive. C.J. Holmes creates an atmosphere that pulls you in quickly and keeps the pages turning. The pacing is strong, the tension stays high, and there is always something unfolding to keep you invested.
And the ending? Very satisfying. The emotional payoff felt earned, and I closed the book feeling genuinely glad I took this journey with these characters.
While love triangles aren’t usually my favorite trope, this one is undeniably well done my frustration was less about the trope itself and more about how invested I became.
If you enjoy romantasy with layered characters, strong development, immersive world-building, emotional tension, and a heroine who steps into her own power, this is absolutely worth picking up.
A fast-paced, engaging read and a very solid Romantasy. Thanks to the author for an early copy!
I am not typically a love triangle lover, and this one had me emotionally spiraling in the best and most frustrating way. One minute I knew exactly who I wanted Azahara with, and the next I was completely convinced she should choose the other. The internal conflict was REAL but honestly, that just shows how well it was written.
What really stood out to me was Azahara’s character growth. Watching her move from a life shaped by expectations and lack of choice into someone willing to claim her own future was incredibly satisfying. There is something powerful about a heroine who learns to trust herself and ultimately gets to decide what her life will be.
The world-building is rich without feeling overwhelming, and the descriptive writing makes everything feel vivid and immersive. C.J. Holmes creates an atmosphere that pulls you in quickly and keeps the pages turning. The pacing is strong, the tension stays high, and there is always something unfolding to keep you invested.
And the ending? Very satisfying. The emotional payoff felt earned, and I closed the book feeling genuinely glad I took this journey with these characters.
While love triangles aren’t usually my favorite trope, this one is undeniably well done my frustration was less about the trope itself and more about how invested I became.
If you enjoy romantasy with layered characters, strong development, immersive world-building, emotional tension, and a heroine who steps into her own power, this is absolutely worth picking up.
A fast-paced, engaging read and a very solid Romantasy. Thanks to the author for an early copy!
March 21, 2026
Thank you C.J. Holmes for this eARC!
I’m not typically one to enjoy a love triangle but this was different and I’m here for it!! Azhara’s internal struggle was complicated and it doesn’t help that she has trust issues that are almost beyond repair.
The twists and turns have you constantly questioning how you want the ending of this book to play out. Did I see some of the reveals coming? Of course, but it didn’t help me choose how I wanted this to go.
I love the writing style and it made me feel like I truly knew what Azhara was feeling - even if I did want to slap her occasionally to knock some sense in her. Same with Mallan, I do hope there are future plans for his POV because that would be amazing to read. He has many pretty words but I also wanted to throttle him more often than not. In the end, I believe it was tied up with a pretty bow and what more could we want?
I’m not typically one to enjoy a love triangle but this was different and I’m here for it!! Azhara’s internal struggle was complicated and it doesn’t help that she has trust issues that are almost beyond repair.
The twists and turns have you constantly questioning how you want the ending of this book to play out. Did I see some of the reveals coming? Of course, but it didn’t help me choose how I wanted this to go.
I love the writing style and it made me feel like I truly knew what Azhara was feeling - even if I did want to slap her occasionally to knock some sense in her. Same with Mallan, I do hope there are future plans for his POV because that would be amazing to read. He has many pretty words but I also wanted to throttle him more often than not. In the end, I believe it was tied up with a pretty bow and what more could we want?
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is everything a Dark Romantasy should be! I swear I wanted to throw my Kindle a few times during my read. This book had one of my favorite tropes, a Love Triangle. Not a fluffy love triangle, I'm talking rip your soul out! You have no idea how Azhara will ever choose kind of Love Triangle! Bravo CJ for writing this masterpiece.
Labyrinthine, is a Dark seductive myth retelling Romantasy that captures the heart. You have deadly trials, cursed royalty, dark labyrinth, a feared monster, dark gods, high stakes, plus so much more. Also, the slow burn and yearning in this book! The way I devoured this book because I simply couldn't put it down. The world building in this book was fantastic. It is immersive, but well written and allowed you to feel what the characters felt. Labyrinthine follows a princess named Azhara, who was cursed by the gods to hold a power that could only be claimed by someone winning her hand through deadly trials in the annual Reaping. None ever survived the Reaping, but this time things take a Dark and deadly turn. A Golden Prince and a Dark Commander fight for her heart, but who wins? THESE TWO MEN will have your heart and soul in a chokehold! There were a few plot twists I didn't see coming and one of them nearly took me out emotionally.
If you love a book that captures all the elements of Dark Fantasy and lyrical writing style, then this book is exactly what you want to read. Labyrinthine is a standalone in CJs new series "Thrones of the Forsaken". This one was a 6-Star read with a TWO 🌶 spice rating.
Wonder if you will be Team Darian or Team Mallen? I wish I could tell you which Team that I picked from the beginning, but I can't spoil it for you! Amazing book for CJ's Traditionally Published debut series. I recommend to pick this book up as soon as you can!
Labyrinthine, is a Dark seductive myth retelling Romantasy that captures the heart. You have deadly trials, cursed royalty, dark labyrinth, a feared monster, dark gods, high stakes, plus so much more. Also, the slow burn and yearning in this book! The way I devoured this book because I simply couldn't put it down. The world building in this book was fantastic. It is immersive, but well written and allowed you to feel what the characters felt. Labyrinthine follows a princess named Azhara, who was cursed by the gods to hold a power that could only be claimed by someone winning her hand through deadly trials in the annual Reaping. None ever survived the Reaping, but this time things take a Dark and deadly turn. A Golden Prince and a Dark Commander fight for her heart, but who wins? THESE TWO MEN will have your heart and soul in a chokehold! There were a few plot twists I didn't see coming and one of them nearly took me out emotionally.
If you love a book that captures all the elements of Dark Fantasy and lyrical writing style, then this book is exactly what you want to read. Labyrinthine is a standalone in CJs new series "Thrones of the Forsaken". This one was a 6-Star read with a TWO 🌶 spice rating.
Wonder if you will be Team Darian or Team Mallen? I wish I could tell you which Team that I picked from the beginning, but I can't spoil it for you! Amazing book for CJ's Traditionally Published debut series. I recommend to pick this book up as soon as you can!
March 24, 2026
This was one of those rare reads where I went in with sky-high expectations… and somehow still got exactly what I wanted.
The story is drenched in deception, secrets, betrayal, and plot twists that just keep escalating into complete carnage. Every time I thought I had a grip on what was happening, the rug was pulled out from under me. And don’t even get me started on the love triangle… it’s the kind that melts your insides and then casually ruins your emotional stability for fun.
There’s so much to love here: enemies to lovers, light versus shadow, deadly trials, cursed bloodlines… it’s basically a checklist of addictive tropes done right.
And the characters? Absolutely unhinged in the best way. The men are dangerous, morally questionable, and impossible to ignore, while the FMC holds her own with a fierce determination to set things right no matter the cost. The dynamic between them all is electric.
The author crafted relationships that pull you in so deeply you almost stop asking questions… even when you definitely should be. Trust is fragile in this world, and I found myself constantly second-guessing who was genuine and who was about to stab someone in the back.
It kept me hooked, suspicious, and fully invested from beginning to end.
I loved everything about it. The plot, the magic, the romance… all of it just worked.
The story is drenched in deception, secrets, betrayal, and plot twists that just keep escalating into complete carnage. Every time I thought I had a grip on what was happening, the rug was pulled out from under me. And don’t even get me started on the love triangle… it’s the kind that melts your insides and then casually ruins your emotional stability for fun.
There’s so much to love here: enemies to lovers, light versus shadow, deadly trials, cursed bloodlines… it’s basically a checklist of addictive tropes done right.
And the characters? Absolutely unhinged in the best way. The men are dangerous, morally questionable, and impossible to ignore, while the FMC holds her own with a fierce determination to set things right no matter the cost. The dynamic between them all is electric.
The author crafted relationships that pull you in so deeply you almost stop asking questions… even when you definitely should be. Trust is fragile in this world, and I found myself constantly second-guessing who was genuine and who was about to stab someone in the back.
It kept me hooked, suspicious, and fully invested from beginning to end.
I loved everything about it. The plot, the magic, the romance… all of it just worked.
March 19, 2026
Review of advanced copy.
Labyrinthine felt like stepping into a maze made of words — beautifully written - incredibly descriptive and intricate - making every scene feel vivid, alive and the world feel real.
At its heart, this story is about choices — impossible ones — woven through trials that constantly push the FMC to her limits. And the growth? So satisfying. Watching her change, struggle, and become stronger was easily my favourite part.
The love triangle adds delicious tension and intrigue. Leaving you guessing what choice she will make! Raw emotion, a ‘touch her and die’ energy and feelings hidden between lies and deception.
An incredible read and one I would definitely recommend!
-love triangle ❤️
-trials ⚔️
-morally grey MMC’s
-fierce FMC
-blood curses 🩸
Labyrinthine felt like stepping into a maze made of words — beautifully written - incredibly descriptive and intricate - making every scene feel vivid, alive and the world feel real.
At its heart, this story is about choices — impossible ones — woven through trials that constantly push the FMC to her limits. And the growth? So satisfying. Watching her change, struggle, and become stronger was easily my favourite part.
The love triangle adds delicious tension and intrigue. Leaving you guessing what choice she will make! Raw emotion, a ‘touch her and die’ energy and feelings hidden between lies and deception.
An incredible read and one I would definitely recommend!
-love triangle ❤️
-trials ⚔️
-morally grey MMC’s
-fierce FMC
-blood curses 🩸
March 21, 2026
I LOVED this story!!! Seriously DEVOURED IT!!! I’m usually not one to enjoy love triangles but this one was done perfectly and I ate it up!!! I mean the way this all played out was great!! The twists! 🎤 drop!! I loved the trials it was all written so well! This was intriguing and captivating! Kept me invested the entire time! It is a slow burn but it was worth the wait!! The plot was amazing nothing like I’ve read before!! Seriously loved it!! Definitely recommend!!
March 21, 2026
I personally was not able to connect to this story or characters in a meaningful way but I am choosing to rate and write my review on things I think other readers will enjoy. There is a love triangle in this story that keeps you guessing. I went back and forth on who I thought the MFC should end up with. I also liked Azhara.
Why I struggled to connect? It was the cadence of the writing. “Not a spell, not a force, a hunger” or “Not a promise. A certainty. A warning”. I felt there was an over use of these types of sentences in this book. I understand what the author was trying to do with these, but I found there were so many of them that it became distracting. To me the characters and story got buried underneath.
Why I struggled to connect? It was the cadence of the writing. “Not a spell, not a force, a hunger” or “Not a promise. A certainty. A warning”. I felt there was an over use of these types of sentences in this book. I understand what the author was trying to do with these, but I found there were so many of them that it became distracting. To me the characters and story got buried underneath.
March 28, 2026
Wow! Getting lost in this labyrinth of a story was worth that ending! Mallen has some red flags not gonna lie but he’s soo sexy and just a man built by a terrible king. Darian is the pompous prince and kinda sweet. Azhara though, she is the one to watch. Strong, resilient, and tangled between why choice she should make. You have to read this to see who she chooses! CJ does an excellent job of story telling here. It was hard to put this down. The spice is just one 🌶️ but it’s the perfect amount. 5 stars!!
March 27, 2026
Thank you so much to CJ Holmes for an ARC of this book. I absolutely devoured this! Usually a love triangle annoys me, but this one kept me guessing! Azhara is a strong, brave FMC who feels deeply but isn’t allowed her own thoughts and ideas. Her power hungry father makes sure of this. The writing was beautifully descriptive with fabulous character development. I was left guessing who to trust throughout the story, and I felt for Azhara as she navigated the fight between her heart and her mind.
March 27, 2026
This is everything a dark romantasy should be! Love triangle, deadly trials, and magic.
I loved how strong Azarha was admist everything she had to endure. Every year, 10 men compete for a chance to win her hand in marriage in this year something is different. This time she has a choice.
I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. The plot twists kept twisting and I found myself rooting for each of the MMCs at different points of the book!!
Thank you CJ for the opportunity to be an ARC reader. These thoughts are my own.
I loved how strong Azarha was admist everything she had to endure. Every year, 10 men compete for a chance to win her hand in marriage in this year something is different. This time she has a choice.
I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. The plot twists kept twisting and I found myself rooting for each of the MMCs at different points of the book!!
Thank you CJ for the opportunity to be an ARC reader. These thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ok, where to start.... First this book gets all the stars! Chefs kiss.... the only reason this got put down was because I had to adult and then got frustrated because of having to adult.... Like I just wanted to go in a hole and read my book and be left alone.
This book had me from the first chapter until the last. I need so much more. Like it wrapped things up but I wasn't ready for it to finish. I wanted more and I'm being greedy about the characters. Like I need more and I'm sad that I don't have any more as I have already read it all. I hate that I devoured it as fast as I did as I did get to savor it but it wasn't enough. This book was that good. Just trust and read it.
So let's do a little recap without spoilers. We have our MFC, Azhara, MMC #1, Mallen, and MMC #2, Darian. Mallen is our commander. Darian is our prince. Of course they both say swoon worthy comments the whole time that makes your heart break because neither want to share... So of course she will have to pick right? Or does she? Also if you want to hate someone, there is a lot of information in here to drink the hateaid. It was strong with this book during certain spots. Like so much I wanted to jump in the book and hug characters while throat punching others. There are 3 trials and you learn more each trial and you learn more about the truth behind the power and why it is like it is. There is also betrayal all around and when you think you're going to zig and zag, you get spun around. You will think you know how it's going to go, sometimes you will be right, sometimes you will break wrong. Just remember that things are not as they always seem (but maybe they are). That is all I'm going to give you on the story because everything else would be a spoiler. There is a HEA also! I will say that much.
If you want a book that will keep you invested, on your toes and wanting to know more along with drinking some hateraid, this is your book! If you want a book that you think you know where it's going, you might be right and you might be wrong... this is your book. I called some things and others I was completely off track. During my time reading this book, I was in the authors DM's because I needed to say a few things.
So just trust me, and go read this book. It is so good from start to end. I need more!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early release as this went right to the top of my TBR and I don't regret staying up reading one bit! I would do it again. I'm just sad that I can't read this book for the first time.
This book had me from the first chapter until the last. I need so much more. Like it wrapped things up but I wasn't ready for it to finish. I wanted more and I'm being greedy about the characters. Like I need more and I'm sad that I don't have any more as I have already read it all. I hate that I devoured it as fast as I did as I did get to savor it but it wasn't enough. This book was that good. Just trust and read it.
So let's do a little recap without spoilers. We have our MFC, Azhara, MMC #1, Mallen, and MMC #2, Darian. Mallen is our commander. Darian is our prince. Of course they both say swoon worthy comments the whole time that makes your heart break because neither want to share... So of course she will have to pick right? Or does she? Also if you want to hate someone, there is a lot of information in here to drink the hateaid. It was strong with this book during certain spots. Like so much I wanted to jump in the book and hug characters while throat punching others. There are 3 trials and you learn more each trial and you learn more about the truth behind the power and why it is like it is. There is also betrayal all around and when you think you're going to zig and zag, you get spun around. You will think you know how it's going to go, sometimes you will be right, sometimes you will break wrong. Just remember that things are not as they always seem (but maybe they are). That is all I'm going to give you on the story because everything else would be a spoiler. There is a HEA also! I will say that much.
If you want a book that will keep you invested, on your toes and wanting to know more along with drinking some hateraid, this is your book! If you want a book that you think you know where it's going, you might be right and you might be wrong... this is your book. I called some things and others I was completely off track. During my time reading this book, I was in the authors DM's because I needed to say a few things.
So just trust me, and go read this book. It is so good from start to end. I need more!
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an early release as this went right to the top of my TBR and I don't regret staying up reading one bit! I would do it again. I'm just sad that I can't read this book for the first time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This brilliantly written dark fantasy romance is now one of my top reads of 2026! I was not expecting the depth and emotional turmoil Azhara’s journey and this love triangle would take me on! Just when I’d think I know which man is the best choice for her, the plot twists, the lines blur and the truth shifts. This thought provoking novel reads as a metaphor for the hard life choices we all must make that don’t come with clear answers and/or guarantees, and the courage it takes to trust yourself above all others.
My Synopsis:
Each year, ten men come to compete in deadly trails for Azhara’s hand in marriage, and to claim the magic that resides within her. Each year, they fail and men die. Her father wants her magic for himself, the men want her power to rule, and Azhara is a weapon and a pawn with no choices left for herself. That is, until a prince who seems too good to be true actually has a chance at winning, and a choice reveals itself. Will she chose the man who’s the loyal, constant or the Prince who is supposed to win, and will either choice be better than the chains she’s already in?
My Thoughts:
Set in a dark and foreboding atmosphere that enhances the anger, grief and loss that makes up Azhara’s life, this mythology inspired retelling pulled me into its grasp within the first pages and kept me throughly enthralled until the end. Azhara’s feminine rage is palpable, and I love how it fuels her independence and informs her decisions and ultimately leads to her growth and development of self trust. Both MCs care for Azhara and offer her a choice in her fate. I fell for Mallen’s loyalty and fiery commitment to her just as I also loved Darien’s determination to see Azhara as more than a prize. Who would I choose? But, I will go for the burn every time!
This slow burn, fierce FMC driven story, is at its heart a tale of a woman chained by fate and conventions who seeks to control her own destiny. I highly recommend this one if you love a book that delivers emotional turmoil on the way to an emotionally triumphant end.
Thank you to the author, C.J. Holmes, for the early copy. As always these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
My Synopsis:
Each year, ten men come to compete in deadly trails for Azhara’s hand in marriage, and to claim the magic that resides within her. Each year, they fail and men die. Her father wants her magic for himself, the men want her power to rule, and Azhara is a weapon and a pawn with no choices left for herself. That is, until a prince who seems too good to be true actually has a chance at winning, and a choice reveals itself. Will she chose the man who’s the loyal, constant or the Prince who is supposed to win, and will either choice be better than the chains she’s already in?
My Thoughts:
Set in a dark and foreboding atmosphere that enhances the anger, grief and loss that makes up Azhara’s life, this mythology inspired retelling pulled me into its grasp within the first pages and kept me throughly enthralled until the end. Azhara’s feminine rage is palpable, and I love how it fuels her independence and informs her decisions and ultimately leads to her growth and development of self trust. Both MCs care for Azhara and offer her a choice in her fate. I fell for Mallen’s loyalty and fiery commitment to her just as I also loved Darien’s determination to see Azhara as more than a prize. Who would I choose? But, I will go for the burn every time!
This slow burn, fierce FMC driven story, is at its heart a tale of a woman chained by fate and conventions who seeks to control her own destiny. I highly recommend this one if you love a book that delivers emotional turmoil on the way to an emotionally triumphant end.
Thank you to the author, C.J. Holmes, for the early copy. As always these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review — Labyrinthine
What an intriguing ride this turned out to be. I’m a Fantasy girl through and through—especially Romantasy—so the second I saw the ARC application for Labyrinthine, I didn’t hesitate for a moment before applying. This one is a dark, atmospheric retelling of the Ariadne–Theseus–Minotaur myth, reimagined as a love triangle tangled in bloodline curses, death magic, and impossible choices.
At its core, this story is about agency—about what it means to choose your own path when the world is determined to choose for you. Azhara is trapped in a realm where power is inherited, truths are weaponised, and the people you trust most are often the ones holding the sharpest knives behind their backs.
One thing I adored was how quickly the book throws you into the action. The pacing is fast, immersive, and I swear I spent the first few chapters feeling like I was sprinting beside Azhara with my heart in my throat. And then… we meet Mallen, Commander of the Royal Guards. Let me just say: prepare yourselves. He is that MMC.
But he’s not the only one. Enter Darian—the other magnetic force in this love triangle. You’ll spend half the book wondering who Azhara should choose… and whether she can truly choose either of them at all. Both men pull her in different directions, and the tension between the three of them is deliciously complicated in the best way.
I can’t give too much away (ARC life!), but I can tell you this:
✨ Chapter 25 delivers a reveal I absolutely did not see coming.
✨ Chapter 26… ❤️🔥🤐🤫
And for my slow‑burn lovers—this book is your playground. The tension between Azhara and Mallen is, well tensioning 😂... Is that a word 🤔 ... The restraint? The longing? The hot tub scene? Listen… I would not have had that level of self‑control. Azhara, girl, you’re stronger than me. Meanwhile Darian brings his own brand of intensity that keeps the emotional stakes sky‑high. You’ll be simmering the entire time.
What you can expect from Labyrinthine:
🖤 morally gray men
🗡 myth retelling
🩸 bloodline curses
🔮 dark magic
💔 a dangerous love triangle
What an intriguing ride this turned out to be. I’m a Fantasy girl through and through—especially Romantasy—so the second I saw the ARC application for Labyrinthine, I didn’t hesitate for a moment before applying. This one is a dark, atmospheric retelling of the Ariadne–Theseus–Minotaur myth, reimagined as a love triangle tangled in bloodline curses, death magic, and impossible choices.
At its core, this story is about agency—about what it means to choose your own path when the world is determined to choose for you. Azhara is trapped in a realm where power is inherited, truths are weaponised, and the people you trust most are often the ones holding the sharpest knives behind their backs.
One thing I adored was how quickly the book throws you into the action. The pacing is fast, immersive, and I swear I spent the first few chapters feeling like I was sprinting beside Azhara with my heart in my throat. And then… we meet Mallen, Commander of the Royal Guards. Let me just say: prepare yourselves. He is that MMC.
But he’s not the only one. Enter Darian—the other magnetic force in this love triangle. You’ll spend half the book wondering who Azhara should choose… and whether she can truly choose either of them at all. Both men pull her in different directions, and the tension between the three of them is deliciously complicated in the best way.
I can’t give too much away (ARC life!), but I can tell you this:
✨ Chapter 25 delivers a reveal I absolutely did not see coming.
✨ Chapter 26… ❤️🔥🤐🤫
And for my slow‑burn lovers—this book is your playground. The tension between Azhara and Mallen is, well tensioning 😂... Is that a word 🤔 ... The restraint? The longing? The hot tub scene? Listen… I would not have had that level of self‑control. Azhara, girl, you’re stronger than me. Meanwhile Darian brings his own brand of intensity that keeps the emotional stakes sky‑high. You’ll be simmering the entire time.
What you can expect from Labyrinthine:
🖤 morally gray men
🗡 myth retelling
🩸 bloodline curses
🔮 dark magic
💔 a dangerous love triangle
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into Labyrinthine expecting a dark fantasy romance… and instead I found myself emotionally kidnapped by a very moody, very magical maze of deep emotions and even deeper characters.
This story doesn’t just guide you through a labyrinth of magic and danger, it quietly locks the door behind you and leaves you wandering through the characters’ emotions. The atmosphere is thick with tension, longing, grief, and that fragile kind of hope that keeps you turning pages at 1 a.m. telling yourself “just one more chapter.”
The romance is slow-burn in the best way. It was aching, patient, and layered with emotion rather than rushing straight to the spice. Every small moment feels earned, which made the connection between the characters feel even more powerful. And the worldbuilding unfolds like a puzzle, revealing pieces of the story little by little until suddenly you realize how deep into the maze you’ve wandered.
What really stayed with me, though, was the emotional weight of it all. The characters feel raw and human, shaped by trauma, loyalty, and the kind of impossible choices that leave marks. By the end, it didn’t feel like I had simply read their story, it felt like I had survived the labyrinth right alongside them.
If you love dark romantasy with rich atmosphere, lyrically beautiful and immersive writing, emotional stakes, trials and a female main character who truly grows into herself, Labyrinthine is absolutely worth getting lost in.
And yes… I finished it and immediately stared at the wall for a bit because my brain was still wandering the maze. And then had to discuss my feelings with CJ, like she was my own personal therapist.
This story doesn’t just guide you through a labyrinth of magic and danger, it quietly locks the door behind you and leaves you wandering through the characters’ emotions. The atmosphere is thick with tension, longing, grief, and that fragile kind of hope that keeps you turning pages at 1 a.m. telling yourself “just one more chapter.”
The romance is slow-burn in the best way. It was aching, patient, and layered with emotion rather than rushing straight to the spice. Every small moment feels earned, which made the connection between the characters feel even more powerful. And the worldbuilding unfolds like a puzzle, revealing pieces of the story little by little until suddenly you realize how deep into the maze you’ve wandered.
What really stayed with me, though, was the emotional weight of it all. The characters feel raw and human, shaped by trauma, loyalty, and the kind of impossible choices that leave marks. By the end, it didn’t feel like I had simply read their story, it felt like I had survived the labyrinth right alongside them.
If you love dark romantasy with rich atmosphere, lyrically beautiful and immersive writing, emotional stakes, trials and a female main character who truly grows into herself, Labyrinthine is absolutely worth getting lost in.
And yes… I finished it and immediately stared at the wall for a bit because my brain was still wandering the maze. And then had to discuss my feelings with CJ, like she was my own personal therapist.
Review of advance copy
First off thank you so much CJ Holmes for writing yet another amazing book. I got the exciting chance to be an ARC reader again for her book. Labyrinthine is easily one of my top reads of 2026 and if I could have given this book 6 stars I would have. This book has everything that I was looking for: a love triangle, high stakes, deadly trials, and a man who falls first. (because who doesn't love a man who knows what he wants.) This story focuses on Azhara as the fmc and Darian and Mallen as the mmc's. Azhara is a woman who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to get it. Darian and Mallen are both hot as heck men who both want Azhara but for different reasons. This book takes you on twists and turns and just when you think you know what is happening CJ will keep you on the edge of your seat. I absolutely can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy of this book.
Favorite Quotes:
"Let the gods be angry. Let them come. I'm done being theirs." - Azhara
"You've never been a dity. Just a choice I made a thousand times over." - You'll have to read to find out.
"Some women want to shine like stars, but I think you want to be the lightning that splits the skies." -Again you'll have to read to find out.
Favorite Quotes:
"Let the gods be angry. Let them come. I'm done being theirs." - Azhara
"You've never been a dity. Just a choice I made a thousand times over." - You'll have to read to find out.
"Some women want to shine like stars, but I think you want to be the lightning that splits the skies." -Again you'll have to read to find out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into Labyrinthine expecting a dark fantasy romance, but what I found was something far more haunting and immersive. This story doesn’t just pull you into a maze of magic and danger, it traps you inside the emotions of its characters in a way that feels almost impossible to escape.
The atmosphere is rich and heavy with tension, every scene layered with longing, grief, and fragile hope. The romance is slow, aching, and deeply emotional rather than rushed, which made every small moment feel significant. I loved how the worldbuilding unfolded naturally, revealing secrets piece by piece until the full weight of the story settled in.
What stayed with me most was the emotional intensity. The characters feel raw and real, shaped by trauma, loyalty, and difficult choices. By the end, I wasn’t just reading about their journey. I felt like I had lived inside it.
If you love dark romantasy with lyrical writing, deep emotional stakes, and an FMC who really grows into herself and who she is, then Labyrinthine is absolutely worth the read. I’m already thinking about it long after turning the final page.
The atmosphere is rich and heavy with tension, every scene layered with longing, grief, and fragile hope. The romance is slow, aching, and deeply emotional rather than rushed, which made every small moment feel significant. I loved how the worldbuilding unfolded naturally, revealing secrets piece by piece until the full weight of the story settled in.
What stayed with me most was the emotional intensity. The characters feel raw and real, shaped by trauma, loyalty, and difficult choices. By the end, I wasn’t just reading about their journey. I felt like I had lived inside it.
If you love dark romantasy with lyrical writing, deep emotional stakes, and an FMC who really grows into herself and who she is, then Labyrinthine is absolutely worth the read. I’m already thinking about it long after turning the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a great book filled with vivid imagery and dark almost gothic vibes. The pacing flows so effortlessly that I found myself so wrapped up in the trials and the slow burn between the MCs. The kingdom is corrupt, the power system is skewed, and there is more than meets the eye. Azhara is fierce, cursed, and dealt a really awful hand. Her trauma bleeds through the pages, you can’t help falling for her. Both Mallen and Darian had redeeming qualities, and were fiercely protective of her. I’m not going to spoil which team I was on, but I really enjoyed the mystery between all of the characters and never knew what was going to happen next. I was so engrossed in the story, the plot twists had me screaming, and didn’t want it to end!!
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
🖤 Myth Retelling Romantasy
🖤 High-Stakes
🖤 D3ath Magic
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
🖤 Corrupt Rulers and Political Intrigue
🖤 Gods & Bargains
🖤 Cursed Bloodline
🖤 Marriage ☠️ Trials
🖤 Love Triangle
🖤 Slow Burn Romance
🖤 Fierce FMC
“You’re a gift, Azhara. A blessing. You were meant to heal the rift your father opened. The gods gave you a power meant to mend what was broken.”
𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓥𝓲𝓫𝓮𝓼:
🖤 Myth Retelling Romantasy
🖤 High-Stakes
🖤 D3ath Magic
🖤 Touch Her and ☠️
🖤 Corrupt Rulers and Political Intrigue
🖤 Gods & Bargains
🖤 Cursed Bloodline
🖤 Marriage ☠️ Trials
🖤 Love Triangle
🖤 Slow Burn Romance
🖤 Fierce FMC
“You’re a gift, Azhara. A blessing. You were meant to heal the rift your father opened. The gods gave you a power meant to mend what was broken.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Azhara was cursed. A curse that she did not know if she could survive. Her father has never liked or loved her. Has always blamed her for everything bad that has happened to him.
Who can save her, Mallen or Darian?
One has been her protector her entire life. Or has he been using her and molding her into a weapon to further HIS ambition to become KING?
The other is this beautiful prince who has his own power. Does he just want to add her power to his and keep her in a cage?
This book will take you through all of the feels! Can anyone make it through all the trials and then through the Labyrinthine? Can the curse be broken? Will Azhara survive and break the curse? Or will she be broken by the curse?
Who do you pick? Team Darian or Team Mallen?
I will not tell you who I picked or who wins in the end.
Just know that I read this book in one sitting. Once I started, I could not put this book down.
And I am ready for more of the story!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Who can save her, Mallen or Darian?
One has been her protector her entire life. Or has he been using her and molding her into a weapon to further HIS ambition to become KING?
The other is this beautiful prince who has his own power. Does he just want to add her power to his and keep her in a cage?
This book will take you through all of the feels! Can anyone make it through all the trials and then through the Labyrinthine? Can the curse be broken? Will Azhara survive and break the curse? Or will she be broken by the curse?
Who do you pick? Team Darian or Team Mallen?
I will not tell you who I picked or who wins in the end.
Just know that I read this book in one sitting. Once I started, I could not put this book down.
And I am ready for more of the story!
I received an advance review copy at no cost and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review — Labyrinthine by CJ Holmes
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6 MF’ing stars)
🔥 Slow Burn: 4/5
Christ Jesus… this book had me in a chokehold from the start and never let up. The tension is intense from page one, and it just keeps building.
Azhara gave me emotional whiplash 😤 I was frustrated, but I also understood her — she was dealt a terrible hand and was just trying to survive impossible choices.
Mallen and Damian… one was right, one was wrong, but did she really have to choose? Because I’m still mourning the one that wasn’t. And yes… there were moments I wanted to shake both of them.
And her father, the “King”? He can go kick rocks.
Emotionally chaotic, painfully good slow burn, and completely addictive. I finished wrecked and already need more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (6 MF’ing stars)
🔥 Slow Burn: 4/5
Christ Jesus… this book had me in a chokehold from the start and never let up. The tension is intense from page one, and it just keeps building.
Azhara gave me emotional whiplash 😤 I was frustrated, but I also understood her — she was dealt a terrible hand and was just trying to survive impossible choices.
Mallen and Damian… one was right, one was wrong, but did she really have to choose? Because I’m still mourning the one that wasn’t. And yes… there were moments I wanted to shake both of them.
And her father, the “King”? He can go kick rocks.
Emotionally chaotic, painfully good slow burn, and completely addictive. I finished wrecked and already need more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A huge thank you to CJ Holmes for sending me an early access copy of Labyrinthine 🥰
I really enjoyed some elements of this book but I felt quite lost at points, where I thought I might have missed pages/chapters without realising; having now finished the book I still don’t feel confident in the magic system or the political tensions in the World. Perhaps because of this, I didn’t feel deeply connected to the characters, but did enjoy seeing Azhara’s development!
I found the sentence structures a little too repetitive for my liking; “Not X, Not Y. But Z” was used a lot and I found myself getting drawn out of the story each time it appeared.
I really enjoyed some elements of this book but I felt quite lost at points, where I thought I might have missed pages/chapters without realising; having now finished the book I still don’t feel confident in the magic system or the political tensions in the World. Perhaps because of this, I didn’t feel deeply connected to the characters, but did enjoy seeing Azhara’s development!
I found the sentence structures a little too repetitive for my liking; “Not X, Not Y. But Z” was used a lot and I found myself getting drawn out of the story each time it appeared.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating 4.5
I enjoyed reading this book cover to cover.
I couldn’t put it down once I started—it completely pulled me in. The storyline is gripping and intense, with the lingering question of who Azhara will choose and what awaits in the Labyrinth keeping me on edge the entire time.
At different moments, I found myself firmly Team Mallen, then swaying toward Team Darian, only to realize I truly had no idea who she would choose in the end. Each man’s love for Azhara was different. Mallen’s was honest and possessive, while Darian’s was effortless and charming.
It’s a beautifully woven tale of love, magic, and sacrifice—reminding us that true love never comes without a sacrifice.
I enjoyed reading this book cover to cover.
I couldn’t put it down once I started—it completely pulled me in. The storyline is gripping and intense, with the lingering question of who Azhara will choose and what awaits in the Labyrinth keeping me on edge the entire time.
At different moments, I found myself firmly Team Mallen, then swaying toward Team Darian, only to realize I truly had no idea who she would choose in the end. Each man’s love for Azhara was different. Mallen’s was honest and possessive, while Darian’s was effortless and charming.
It’s a beautifully woven tale of love, magic, and sacrifice—reminding us that true love never comes without a sacrifice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC!
This is a fantastic retelling of the Ariadne–Theseus–Minotaur myth, with the added bonus of a love triangle - the slow burn romance which truly does burn.
The love triangle formed the foundation for Azhara to discover who she is and to take back her power and agency.
Prepare to go through a multitude of emotions as our MCs battle through their emotional baggage and the truth becomes a deadly game in order to win the ultimate prize: freedom and love.
This is a fantastic retelling of the Ariadne–Theseus–Minotaur myth, with the added bonus of a love triangle - the slow burn romance which truly does burn.
The love triangle formed the foundation for Azhara to discover who she is and to take back her power and agency.
Prepare to go through a multitude of emotions as our MCs battle through their emotional baggage and the truth becomes a deadly game in order to win the ultimate prize: freedom and love.
Review of advance copy
I was a copyeditor for this book and it is phenomenal!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A love triangle dark romance ? Yes please CJ ugh you did it once again I loved it it’s beautiful and twisted but in a good way everyone should read this one
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