As the mysterious Angeloi intensify their attacks against the Mountain Circle, Layla and Costi must figure out who is aiding their enemies before it’s too late.
Trapped with their supplies dwindling and their leadership in turmoil, they race the clock to unravel the plot and gather their allies. When the secrets of Inperium are finally revealed, it becomes clear just how personal this ancient fight really is.
An immovable love.
Caught between the rules of witch society and the relentless threats from Grey and his followers who seek to tear Costi away from her, Layla’s love is put to the ultimate test.
Because another question remains unanswered—who is Costi Blackthorn? And the revelations shake the Circle to its foundations.
The truth is worse than they ever imagined.
But fate brought them together for a reason. And they will not be separated.
The third and final book in the now complete series, the Spell Caster's Familiar a slow burn paranormal romance set in a hidden witch society in the modern world.
Tamsin is an author and designer living in the marshlands of coastal South Carolina with her husband Mr. Hawthorn, a reclusive and enigmatic genius. When not creating, she enjoys reading, witching around, and visiting new places. The Spell Caster is her first published novel.
I loved this series and this was a great finale. It was short, yet full of action and twists. Layla and Costi were such refreshing MCs. I loved Layla’s determination, fierceness and strong sense of morality. Costi complimented her so well, his humour, loyalty and candidness were endearing. They made the perfect duo for fighting angels and dismantling their society’s archaic social hierarchy. The slow burn of their romance was also amazing. I enjoyed the way everything unfolded and only wish it could’ve been longer because I didn’t want it to end. Highly recommend for those who enjoy the paranormal genre or urban fantasy.
Did I want this story to end? No. Was I satisfied with the way it ended? Yes. Was it bittersweet saying goodbye to the characters I've grown to cherish? Absolutely. But were they given the closure they needed? They sure were. So, thank you, Tamsin. Thank you for gifting us this utterly beautiful and intricate story. Thank you for concluding Layla and Costi's story in such a profound and heartfelt way. Thank you.
If you love stories about witches, rebellion against societal hierarchies, the deconstruction of myths and history, layers of intrigue and twists, and beings from other worlds, you’ll adore Tamsin’s Inperium War series. You’ll devour it if you enjoy tropes like forbidden love, best friends-to-lovers, and found family.
You will be completely immersed from the first to the final line. You will be smitten with the characters. You will fight with them, fear for them, and love them. You will despise the villains, the oppressive systems built to control, the outer forces of power. And yet, you might find yourself feeling an unexpected pang of sympathy for one villain in particular, no matter how much you resist it.
Tamsin has woven a tale of love that knows no boundaries, of friendship and chosen family, of fighting for what is true and just. And it all came to an epic conclusion in The Angel Siege, the third and final book of the series. As I've already told Tamsin, I was unable to put the book down. Who needed sleep when I was hours from learning Layla and Costi's faith?
The Angel Siege was beautifully devastating in the best possible way. It was packed with action, shattering truths, and plots and twists I never saw coming. It was what my heart needed.
Will I miss them? I will, achingly so. I truly felt like another member of their coven, and saying goodbye to them feels like tearing away a piece of myself. And yet, I couldn’t be happier with how it all ended.
Thank you, Tamsin, for having me on this journey with you. It's an honor to be your ARC reader.
The Angel Siege absolutely knows how to pull you in and keep you there. From the very beginning I felt that familiar urgency to keep turning pages just to see how everything would unfold for Layla and Costi. This final installment is packed with emotion, tension, and payoff in a way that made it hard to put down and even harder to say goodbye.
Layla continues to be a strong and relatable lead, and her growth across the series truly shines here. Costi remains one of my favorite characters with his mix of fierce loyalty and quiet vulnerability. Their bond feels earned after everything they have been through together. The side characters also have their moments to shine, and it was rewarding to see how their paths finally come together and play off for the reader.
The pacing is mostly strong throughout the book. The story moves with purpose and keeps the stakes high, but there were a couple moments where I wished things had slowed down just a bit. Some of the emotional beats and major revelations felt like they flew by when they could have used a little more space to fully land and let the impact sink in. But that didn't detract from the book.
The worldbuilding in this final book is less about expanding new locations and more about deepening what has already been established. We get long awaited answers and important lore that help connect the threads across the trilogy. Watching those questions finally come into focus was one of the most satisfying parts of the experience and made the entire series feel more complete.
Overall, this trilogy and this finale in particular have been true highlights on my reading list. The Angel Siege delivers a powerful and emotional conclusion to Layla and Costi’s journey, and it is one I will genuinely miss following. Huge congratulations to Tamsin Hawthorne on closing out her first series with such a strong and memorable ending.
As with the previous two books, this was fast-paced and packed a punch! There were multiple twists I didn’t expect and I loved how the MC’s relationship and character progressions flourished.
A plot driven story, there was no lull in the pacing, with action and drama aplenty that kept the pages turning in quick succession. I also appreciated how each open plot thread concluded well, with enough emphasis on the mountains circles remaining predicament to draw curiosity towards the next books in the Inperium War series.
Overall a great paranormal romance trilogy that I would (and have) recommended to my fellow readers! And also a huge thank you to the author for allowing me to ARC read this book!
3.5⭐️ This picked up right where book two ended. And even though Costi’s possessiveness was borderline cringe, I still loved it all the same.
But honestly? This one felt weirdly underwhelming. I still remember how much I loved book one... the anticipation, the adrenaline, everything. Book two was solid too. But this? While it was alright, I just couldn’t feel the same excitement I had for the first two books.
There were a couple of plot twists I didn’t see coming, and the ending was good. The trilogy wrapped up nicely overall.
Definitely looking forward to the next duology and seeing how the Imperium War will finally wrap up.
LOVE this series. Love this book. Cannot wait for what’s to come next. The conclusion of this trilogy has so many twists I did not see coming. You are not ready!
Oh Tamsin, thank you once again for allowing me to read one of your books early. I LOVE THIS SERIES!
These books are really so great for everyone. They're pretty short reads so it's not an intimidating series to start, however the world building and magic system is so well fleshed out! This is also a very inclusive series which is so awesome to see! It's definitely slow burn, but the tension is toe-curlingly amazing. It really just checks all the boxes!
This is a brilliant end to this series, but also an amazing beginning to this world! I cannot wait to dive even deeper into this storyline!
✨✨✨ The Angel Siege by Tamsin Hawthorn (@authortamsinhawthorn), is the third book in her Inperium War series and will release December 3rd. ✨✨✨
Tropes: 💫 Epic battle 💫 Witch x demon 💫 Secret society 💫 Witches x Angels 💫 Forbidden love 💫 Betrayal 💫 Romantasy 💫 Badass FMC
I just finished this epic masterpiece and I’m still grinning like a Cheshire cat.
I feel so honored that Tamsin invited me to alpha read this story—and not just because of that, but because she added me as a side character 🩵 (cue happy squeals!).
This third installment wraps up Layla and Costi’s journey in the most breathtaking way. It’s a battle against Calamus Grey, against threatening angels, and against the suffocating grip of outdated rules. The stakes? Sky-high. The emotions? Raw and relentless.
I was completely captivated—clenching my fists in fury one moment, gasping for breath the next from the sizzling tension between Layla and Costi. Their chemistry is electric, their bond unbreakable, and the storytelling? Utterly spellbinding.
This romantasy has everything: rebellion, magic, forbidden love, and a finale that will leave you wrecked in the best way.
So be prepared—and go read The Spellcaster and The Demon Familiar. You won’t regret it.
Quotes:
“You fucking useless girl!” Spittle flew as rage contorted Grey’s features. “Do one thing. One thing to save yourself. Bow. Down.” “Never!”
“Yeah,” he murmured close to my ear, stroking a finger up the side of my arm. “I think I need to chase you down in the woods and take you while casting to make sure it works.”
“Psh, they’re trapped in here with *us*.” Drake gave a dismissive wave of her hand. “I think I’ll stay for a while. Maybe find myself one of those guys with horns.” “I’m horny,” Bay waggled his eyebrows as he arrived, flanked by Ash and Salix. “Does that count?” “Did you hear something?” Drake turned to Shade. “Some little insect. A very small one.”
⁉️QOTD: Would you fight for your love, althoug society is against it? ⁉️
You’ll never have my surrender… I’ll never bow to you.
Truths revealed and pasts secrets uncovered, epic battles and swoon worthy romance (with a smidge of spice… that chase scene though… has me trying to find the closest moonlit pond), found family and blood ties that are not to be forgotten, Witches and demons team up against evil angels, standing your ground even when it’s easier just to submit to the powerful, twists and turns, forging your own path and following your heart… the perfect set up for the last installment in the Inperium War series by Tamsin Hawthorn.
This story picks up with Layla, a witch spell caster, and Costi, her brooding demon protector familiar, and their determination to find out who is behind all of this destruction, who is really pulling the strings in the attacks, all while they train and build their covens strength in hopes of making a difference in the fight. They struggle to abide by the laws that govern their society which dictate not only who they are allowed to love but the hierarchy of the society. With the odds and the Counselman Grey set against them, the pair learns the hard way who their true allies. Through it all, they discover their passion for each other ignites in a way that they never thought possible. In disobeying and defying expectations, they not only build a stronger bond but uncover just how powerful they really are in their own right. Will Costi and Layla survive the attacks, will they survive losing each other, or will they survive for each other?
I literally read through tears at some points, I smiled, I blushed. Finished this book in one sitting because I could just not get enough. Layla and Costi are such an amazing power couple. Costi’s gruff and passion for Layla is only matched by his devotion to her. While Layla is equally as marvelous as she strives be true to herself, defy her fears and show courage, all while showing that it doesn’t matter what you are, it matters who you are.
“I wish I had your strength.” “You’ve got all of it. And all yours too.”
It feels so bittersweet to come to the end of this trilogy! The Angel Siege is the perfect finale to the Spell Caster’s Familiar trilogy, pulling together everything I’ve loved about this series. As the Angeloi close in and the Mountain Circle starts to fracture under pressure, Layla and Costi are forced to confront not only the secrets of Inperium, but also the truth of who Costi Blackthorn really is and what that means for everyone they’re fighting to protect.
I absolutely loved this book. The reveals about Inperium and Costi’s past were so satisfying and Layla and Costi’s relationship really gets a chance to blossom. Although this book brings Layla and Costi's story to an end, the wider Imperium War will continue in subsequent books with different characters (in a similar fashion to the Crowns of Nyaxia series).
A recommended read for fans of Cassandra Clare, Sarak J Maas' Crescent City series, and rebellious magical societies.
Thank you to author Tamsin Hawthorn for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
What an explosive finale to this trilogy! Tamsin Hawthorne well and truly packed all the punches for this final book and hit her readers with impressive twists and revelations. As someone who often kind of sees twists coming, I was really taken by surprise by how much I didn't expect the turn the events took - and I loved that!
This said, I still have reservations around certain aspects of the book. Firstly, as much as I'm sure the protagonists are very attracted to each other and everything... does that really need to be their main thought at all times, no matter how much mortal danger they're in? It popped up literally in the middle of a battle to the death. Of course, that0s just my opinion, though. That aside, I was surprised by how much is left unresolved at the end of the book, given it is the end of a trilogy. I understand there will be more books set in this universe, but I feel like a pretty relevant part of the plot of THIS is not wrapped up...
Thank you to the author for the eARC. I'd recommend this trilogy to readers who love paranormal romances and mind-blowing plot-twists!
“This is what I was going to tear apart our society to get.”
I’ll try to put into words how much I have loved this series. It’s an amazing blend of forbidden romance, magic, high-stakes, and twists. I loved every moment of the story of Layla, a spell caster that can’t summon her familiar, playing out. I fell more and more in love with Costi along the way too.
I was so excited for the third and final book of Layla and Costi’s story and it didn’t disappoint! The stakes were higher, and the twists were...twistier. It brought the opening trilogy of the series to an amazing climax.
I can’t wait to see what else the world Tamsin has created has in store for us and what other amazing characters we’ll meet along the way.
It picks up exactly where the last book ended. The war has escalated, the plot thickens, and Costi and Layla are still forced to keep their relationship hidden while trying to figure out their next move. There are some revelations..shocking but also… not really, because the title kind of gives it away. More betrayals too, which weren’t surprising either.
The found family element is definitely stronger in this installment, but it just didn’t hit the same way book 2 did for me. I’m not sure if it was the heavy info-dumping or the lack of spice, but something didn’t vibe. Their arc wraps with an HFN since the war is far from over. In fact, the real war is only beginning.
This is my honest review of the ARC I received. Thank you, Tamsin, for the opportunity.
What I love about this series is how skillfully the author weaves intrigue, romance (and a little spice), civics, and a collegial vibe into a tight, fast-paced plot that upends traditional angel-demon mythology.
These angels are downright terrifying! They've trapped Layla, Costi and their friends in one of the few remaining witch "circles", quite possibly aided by traitors within and without. But they can't imagine the scale of that betrayal, even as they try to figure out how to escape, or perhaps even to fight.
The revelations, when they come, are skillfully handles. I especially love the ongoing theme that differences should be celebrated not ostracized, and that we should all be allowed to love who we love. This is both a great story and a rallying cry.
Ahhh the end of Layla and Costi's trilogy. And what a story it was!! The character growth from both Layla and Costi, the ever present sense of danger, and the delight of our spellcaster and her guardian finally getting their Happily Ever After.
I love this series because the books are fast paced, exciting, and thought provoking.
The imagery in this world is vivid. I always feel like I'm watching a movie when I read the words that Tamsin Hawthorn writes, and I cannot get enough.
I will continue to read anything that Tamsin writes, because it's almost a given that I will be transported to a different place and have the best time.
overall: recommend spice: open door, but not graphic.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE this series so freaking much. Costi and Layla’s story is absolutely fantastic and everything you would want from a romantasy and let me tell you- the plot, it be twisting!
This will make you laugh, cry, be mad at injustices and kick your feet happy. The characters are all amazing and I genuinely can’t wait to see how this story unfolds.
I cannot hype this series up enough- absolutely would recommend any of the books in the series and this one is no different.
This entire series could have been one book. The third book was so anticlimactic - no completion to the angel situation and the ribbon/marriage was rushed, confusing and incomplete. On the last page of the book I was left confused and felt like I just read the last 200 plus pages for no reason.
The skimming over details and lack of true character and world building in this series ruined it for me. If you are a high fantasy reader or love strong world building, this is NOT a series you will enjoy. At no point was I able to immerse myself in this world or these characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Thank you again to the author for giving me an ARC of this book! It has been amazing to have been able to read the ARCs for this whole trilogy! There was some very big twits in this final book that caught me so off guard and I was shook!! I continue to love Layla and Costi’s relationship as well as all the supporting cast members! What a fantastic ending! I’m definitely sad this is over but excited for the next leg of the journey!
Just finished this book. I have been an alpha reader for the whole series. And let me tell you. You will not be disappointed. I cannot say much. I am the secret keeper and know plots and future outcomes. But it's so good. It gives you everything you want to see for the end of this trilogy. If you haven't read the first two books yet, start now so you can be ready for this one.
What a fantastic way to wrap up the trilogy! Tamsin, you are a genius, that's it, that's all.
I adored everything I could go on and on about this book and the entire series, to be honest. But I won't, I will however highly suggest that if you haven't pre ordered it yet, you should.
The plot is everything, along with the romance and all the side characters.
If I cry a work again by Tamsin we might have problems. Just kidding, I love her way too much. I am sad to see this series end but im excited for whats next to come in this universe.
I don't wanna give any spoilers but wow... just wow
I’ve been waiting for this last book to release, to say it’s so bittersweet is an understatement 🥹 I read it within a hour an a half and I couldn’t have asked for a better and complete ending. This author deserves soooo much more recognition and praise for her work :)
I'm super sad to see the end of Layla & Costi's story. I love this trilogy as a quick, fun read to break me out of a slump. While I love the message of the ending, I just feel like I was left missing something from this installment. I can't wait however to see where the universe of the Inperium War goes.
I have loved this series. It has been so easy to read, the mix of fantasy and an almot dystopian society has been a breath of fresh air. I absolutely love Layla and Costi's story and to see their character growth throughout. The Angel Siege cleared up a lot of questions from The Demon Familiar especially around the councilor and his son and Layla's mother. However Tamsin has left it open for the series to continue which is exciting. All up another binge worthy book and a happy ending to this trilogy. Grab a copy you won't regret it.
Tamsie, what can I say? You finished this trilogy with a BANG! Although I never want this series to end, as I will miss Layla, Costi, & co, this book was everything I didn't know I needed for the final story.
I was overjoyed to be offered an opportunity to beta read The Angel Siege, and it did not disappoint. Tamsin writes with such passion and imagery that I can't put down anything I've read until I've devoured it whole.
This final book is the culmination of the fight with Calamus Grey, and brings in many more angels as well as spellcaster's from another Circle that are being used against their will. The story was fast paced and action packed, and VERY high-stakes!
The Circle is still coming to terms with Costi being a literal demon (and Layla's familiar), and the leadership is determined to make their lives as difficult as possible - not realizing that they are the answer to saving the surviving Circle members.
Layla, Costi, and their friends have a tremendous fight on their hands, on multiple fronts, and are giving it everything they've got. Multiple times, I got shivers while reading, and there were several twists I was not expecting!
Tamsin is an auto-buy author for me.
I received a copy of this book from Tamsin. My opinions are my own.