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The Gifted #1
Winds and Whispers
A lonely princess. A rebel leader she never knew existed. A kingdom built on lies.
Princess Alina Everglen has spent her life perfect, obedient, and alone. Until rebels storm the palace and drag her into a world she had been oblivious of—straight into the hands of Kael Stormborne, their dangerous leader.
Hidden among the rebels, Alina discovers forbidden magic within herself… and a truth that changes everything.
As slow-burning trust turns into something far more dangerous, tensions among the rebels rise and Alina must fight for her place in her new world. Will she have the power to save herself—and the man she loves?
An emotional, character-driven romantasy featuring slow burn romance, found family, enemies to lovers, and a heroine discovering her own power.
Princess Alina Everglen has spent her life perfect, obedient, and alone. Until rebels storm the palace and drag her into a world she had been oblivious of—straight into the hands of Kael Stormborne, their dangerous leader.
Hidden among the rebels, Alina discovers forbidden magic within herself… and a truth that changes everything.
As slow-burning trust turns into something far more dangerous, tensions among the rebels rise and Alina must fight for her place in her new world. Will she have the power to save herself—and the man she loves?
An emotional, character-driven romantasy featuring slow burn romance, found family, enemies to lovers, and a heroine discovering her own power.
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Rina Thorne
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https://www.rinathorne.com/
ARC sign-up for Roots and Rebellion, Book 2 in The Gifted series: https://rootsandrebellion.rinathorne.com
Fantasy romance author | reading addict | wife and mother of two grown sons | mad cat lady | tea, no coffee; milk, no sugar. Icecream is my downfall.
https://www.rinathorne.com/
ARC sign-up for Roots and Rebellion, Book 2 in The Gifted series: https://rootsandrebellion.rinathorne.com
Fantasy romance author | reading addict | wife and mother of two grown sons | mad cat lady | tea, no coffee; milk, no sugar. Icecream is my downfall.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 6, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the author.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I really enjoyed the story and following Alinas journey. The author writes in a really beautiful and descriptive way.
The story started out quite exciting, then slowed down a bit, and the last 30% I just didn’t put it down at all. Even if it was slow at some parts, it didn’t make me bored or not wanting to read on. I loved the small glimpses of happiness and normalcy occasionally throughout the story, showing that people can find those moments even in the hardest of times.
Looking forwards to reading how the his story will evolve in the next book. Also liked that the book wasn’t too focused on the romance and spice, even when there is a romance and steamy moments.
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. I really enjoyed the story and following Alinas journey. The author writes in a really beautiful and descriptive way.
The story started out quite exciting, then slowed down a bit, and the last 30% I just didn’t put it down at all. Even if it was slow at some parts, it didn’t make me bored or not wanting to read on. I loved the small glimpses of happiness and normalcy occasionally throughout the story, showing that people can find those moments even in the hardest of times.
Looking forwards to reading how the his story will evolve in the next book. Also liked that the book wasn’t too focused on the romance and spice, even when there is a romance and steamy moments.
July 24, 2026
I read this book after the author's call for ARC readers for book 2 came up in my FB feed. I devoured the book in a couple days. I enjoyed the world, FMC, storyline, and the path to self-discovery.
Pros:
Rina does an amazing job describing the world. When Alina visits the safe hold village, I can close my eyes and picture the colors, joy, and people. When she first enters the caves, I can imagine the veins in the rock and the chill through the bones. My favorite parts of the book are when Rina leans in and gives a full description of what we should see and how everything in that scene is moving and interacting. It makes me feel like I am there with Alina seeing it for the first time.I want to keep turning the page and see what happens next.
Rina does a great job of presenting those who you know will be a villain, while making you question the intentions of many others. She draws you into how each person appears from Alina's perspective. She wrote Alina to be highly observant based on her upbringing, which allows her to be not only observant, but reluctant to let others in.
I enjoyed that the FMC doesn't follow the much used trope of being an orphan who has no one at the start of the book. I love that she has to discover herself and who she wants to be without a man being at the center of her decision.
I enjoyed the banter, and only wish there was more! I loved when Alina called Kael "abductor", and wished Rina would have allowed that to stick.
One of my favorite lines: Does my comfort level factor in to your kidnapping metrics? Should I rate my abduction experience on a scale of one to ten?
Cons:
If I could change 1 thing about the book, it would be a little longer to help the pacing. When Rina settles in and describes the location (i.e. safe haven village, caves, healing village), I could not put the book down, and those sections were pure magic. There were other parts that the pacing felt rushed, and would have benefited from slowing down and giving the reader more. Even though at times it is stated it has been days or weeks since starting something, it felt like Alina's training and progress was rushed a little and I didn'tfeel connectedto the book in those spots. I would have like it if she gave us more about Alina's training, progress, and setbacks. I feel all training takes time and doesn't happen overnight, so it would be nice to see that progress in the book.
Overall:
I am very glad I was introduced to this book and author! I cannot wait to start book 2, and follow where the author takes not only this series, but her writing as a whole. 4 stars.
Pros:
Rina does an amazing job describing the world. When Alina visits the safe hold village, I can close my eyes and picture the colors, joy, and people. When she first enters the caves, I can imagine the veins in the rock and the chill through the bones. My favorite parts of the book are when Rina leans in and gives a full description of what we should see and how everything in that scene is moving and interacting. It makes me feel like I am there with Alina seeing it for the first time.I want to keep turning the page and see what happens next.
Rina does a great job of presenting those who you know will be a villain, while making you question the intentions of many others. She draws you into how each person appears from Alina's perspective. She wrote Alina to be highly observant based on her upbringing, which allows her to be not only observant, but reluctant to let others in.
I enjoyed that the FMC doesn't follow the much used trope of being an orphan who has no one at the start of the book. I love that she has to discover herself and who she wants to be without a man being at the center of her decision.
I enjoyed the banter, and only wish there was more! I loved when Alina called Kael "abductor", and wished Rina would have allowed that to stick.
One of my favorite lines: Does my comfort level factor in to your kidnapping metrics? Should I rate my abduction experience on a scale of one to ten?
Cons:
If I could change 1 thing about the book, it would be a little longer to help the pacing. When Rina settles in and describes the location (i.e. safe haven village, caves, healing village), I could not put the book down, and those sections were pure magic. There were other parts that the pacing felt rushed, and would have benefited from slowing down and giving the reader more. Even though at times it is stated it has been days or weeks since starting something, it felt like Alina's training and progress was rushed a little and I didn'tfeel connectedto the book in those spots. I would have like it if she gave us more about Alina's training, progress, and setbacks. I feel all training takes time and doesn't happen overnight, so it would be nice to see that progress in the book.
Overall:
I am very glad I was introduced to this book and author! I cannot wait to start book 2, and follow where the author takes not only this series, but her writing as a whole. 4 stars.
August 5, 2026
Wind and Whispers is a debut novel that Rina should be incredibly proud of. It delivers a refreshing story that doesn't follow the same well-worn fantasy formula, and it's clear she has a real talent for storytelling.
The writing is beautiful, with an atmospheric quality that completely immerses you in the world. I could almost feel the cold, the damp, and the oppressive darkness of the mountain hold. While I would have loved a little more world-building, as the kingdom sometimes felt smaller than I expected. However, the setting was vivid and memorable.
For me, the pacing wasn't always consistent. There were moments where it slowed a little too much, with more description than action. A tighter pace in places would have made the story even stronger.
The characters, however, were the highlight of the book. They felt real, flawed, and easy to care about. I found myself rooting for all of them. Watching Alina come so close to breaking was heartbreaking, and there were times I wanted to step into the pages and stand up for her because of how poorly she was treated.
Kael was another character I really enjoyed, although I'd have loved to see a darker side to him. I also found myself wishing for more of his point of view, as I think it would have added even more depth to the story. The supporting cast was equally engaging, and Finn quickly became one of my favourites... though I'm still not entirely sure if he should be!
The romance was sweet and believable, although I did feel Alina's return was accepted a little too easily. I would have liked to see more emotional fallout before everything settled.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut and a very deserving four-star read. Rina has created a beautifully written, dark fantasy with a cast of characters that stay with you long after you've finished. I'm currently reading the ARC of Book Two, and I can't wait to see where the story goes next. Rina deserves a great deal of praise for what she's accomplished here, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
The writing is beautiful, with an atmospheric quality that completely immerses you in the world. I could almost feel the cold, the damp, and the oppressive darkness of the mountain hold. While I would have loved a little more world-building, as the kingdom sometimes felt smaller than I expected. However, the setting was vivid and memorable.
For me, the pacing wasn't always consistent. There were moments where it slowed a little too much, with more description than action. A tighter pace in places would have made the story even stronger.
The characters, however, were the highlight of the book. They felt real, flawed, and easy to care about. I found myself rooting for all of them. Watching Alina come so close to breaking was heartbreaking, and there were times I wanted to step into the pages and stand up for her because of how poorly she was treated.
Kael was another character I really enjoyed, although I'd have loved to see a darker side to him. I also found myself wishing for more of his point of view, as I think it would have added even more depth to the story. The supporting cast was equally engaging, and Finn quickly became one of my favourites... though I'm still not entirely sure if he should be!
The romance was sweet and believable, although I did feel Alina's return was accepted a little too easily. I would have liked to see more emotional fallout before everything settled.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut and a very deserving four-star read. Rina has created a beautifully written, dark fantasy with a cast of characters that stay with you long after you've finished. I'm currently reading the ARC of Book Two, and I can't wait to see where the story goes next. Rina deserves a great deal of praise for what she's accomplished here, and I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
July 27, 2026
Princess Alina spent her days trapped in a gilded cage. Always taught to be quiet, controlled and composed. Everything she once knew was ripped away from her in an instant, by rebel leader Kael Stormborne. Now she has to choose, where do her loyalties lie, with her family or the rebels?
The world building in this story was immaculate, you could feel the chill in your bones, see the frost in the air from your breath, the light showing through the branches of the trees. Beautiful imagery throughout the entire story.
The relationship between Kael and Alina was well written, they did have their moments of discourse and lack of communication, but it helped make it more authentic in my opinion.
Unfortunately, something that did fall flat for me was that Alina was dull, while she was a princess and raised that way, I really hoped to see her personality flourish a bit more. She did have a major turning point at the end of the story, I was just hoping for a more gradual growth throughout the story.
The consistent routine of Alina being the bad guy also got a little old to me. No matter what she did, or how she did it she was always cast out. While sometime yes it was absolutely valid, other times it was just unnecessary. The fact that she didn't belong anywhere was repetitive. With that being said, it made the ending that much more fulfilling, she finally took the time to learn who she is and what she wants to be.
All in all it was a very good read and I can't wait to see what happens next.
The world building in this story was immaculate, you could feel the chill in your bones, see the frost in the air from your breath, the light showing through the branches of the trees. Beautiful imagery throughout the entire story.
The relationship between Kael and Alina was well written, they did have their moments of discourse and lack of communication, but it helped make it more authentic in my opinion.
Unfortunately, something that did fall flat for me was that Alina was dull, while she was a princess and raised that way, I really hoped to see her personality flourish a bit more. She did have a major turning point at the end of the story, I was just hoping for a more gradual growth throughout the story.
The consistent routine of Alina being the bad guy also got a little old to me. No matter what she did, or how she did it she was always cast out. While sometime yes it was absolutely valid, other times it was just unnecessary. The fact that she didn't belong anywhere was repetitive. With that being said, it made the ending that much more fulfilling, she finally took the time to learn who she is and what she wants to be.
All in all it was a very good read and I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 25, 2026
Rina Thorne gifted me this absolutely magical book in exchange for an honest review, and let me tell you—I devoured it! I’m actually quite proud of myself for forcing a few breaks instead of falling into my usual “just one more chapter” trap.. 12 chapters later.
Run, don’t walk, to grab this book before Book #2 is released!
Winds and Whispers (Gifted Series Book 1) by Rina Thorne can be compared to a thousand other fantasy novels, yet somehow stands completely on its own. The story keeps you captivated with unexpected twists, turns, and revelations that make it impossible to put down.
Rina even managed to get an audible “Oh, come on!” out of me during one particularly frustrating interruption (you’ll know exactly what I mean when you get there). My husband looked over like, “What did I do?”
Watching Alina’s journey unfold was one of my favorite parts of the story. She evolves from pampered and sheltered, to feeling like she belongs nowhere, to embracing a determined “I’ve got this” attitude facing whatever this is. She’s a fierce, resilient woman I would be proud to call both friend and ally.
So grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and settle in for an exciting journey filled with magic and adventure. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the Gifted in the books to come!
Run, don’t walk, to grab this book before Book #2 is released!
Winds and Whispers (Gifted Series Book 1) by Rina Thorne can be compared to a thousand other fantasy novels, yet somehow stands completely on its own. The story keeps you captivated with unexpected twists, turns, and revelations that make it impossible to put down.
Rina even managed to get an audible “Oh, come on!” out of me during one particularly frustrating interruption (you’ll know exactly what I mean when you get there). My husband looked over like, “What did I do?”
Watching Alina’s journey unfold was one of my favorite parts of the story. She evolves from pampered and sheltered, to feeling like she belongs nowhere, to embracing a determined “I’ve got this” attitude facing whatever this is. She’s a fierce, resilient woman I would be proud to call both friend and ally.
So grab your favorite drink, get cozy, and settle in for an exciting journey filled with magic and adventure. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the Gifted in the books to come!
July 29, 2026
I found Rina's work very much by accident. A reel for one of her books came across my feed and it looked like the type of books I like to read.
Let me tell you she did not disappoint! Winds and Whispers was everything you could want in a fantasy story and it should be talked about by so many more people. It is by far some of the most lyrical, poetic storytelling that I have come across.
Alina's story I think can resonate with so many people, myself included. Where sometimes the only choices are bad choices. The only route is straight ahead. And the only motivation you can give yourself is just to take one more step.
If you like stories about overcoming what seem like insurmountable odds, finding power you didn't know you had, finding family you didn't know you needed, while diving into rich world building with incredible descriptions then this book is for you!
5 stars and I can't wait for the next book!
Let me tell you she did not disappoint! Winds and Whispers was everything you could want in a fantasy story and it should be talked about by so many more people. It is by far some of the most lyrical, poetic storytelling that I have come across.
Alina's story I think can resonate with so many people, myself included. Where sometimes the only choices are bad choices. The only route is straight ahead. And the only motivation you can give yourself is just to take one more step.
If you like stories about overcoming what seem like insurmountable odds, finding power you didn't know you had, finding family you didn't know you needed, while diving into rich world building with incredible descriptions then this book is for you!
5 stars and I can't wait for the next book!
July 10, 2026
I I'm so happy I picked this up I loved following Alina on her journey finding out who she is, who she wants to be and her gift she possesses and how to control it! I loved that you got to know all the characters even if you liked more then others but it set up a fabulous plot for the story.
There is some romance not to steamy at all but such perfect timing for it in the story when it does come up. Highly recommend checking this one out I can not wait to see how alinas and kael's story continues.
There is some romance not to steamy at all but such perfect timing for it in the story when it does come up. Highly recommend checking this one out I can not wait to see how alinas and kael's story continues.
July 16, 2026
Winds and Whispers is a beautifully written romantasy with strong character development, an engaging slow-burn romance, and an intriguing magical world. The beginning is a little slow, but the story really picks up and the ending leaves you wanting more. A great read for fans of character-driven fantasy. Can’t wait for book 2👀
July 4, 2026
Heartbreaking
A wild ride with the journey of Princess Alina from caged royal to rebel leader fighting for justice. Holy cow. Very intense. I love the pieces about accepting and finding yourself even when the world is cruel.
A wild ride with the journey of Princess Alina from caged royal to rebel leader fighting for justice. Holy cow. Very intense. I love the pieces about accepting and finding yourself even when the world is cruel.
July 15, 2026
Wild ride.
Kidnapping and lies. Secrets and betrayal. This story pulls you in and doesn't let you go. I physically ached for Alina. Her despair and loneliness my own at times. And the wild twists and turns kept me guessing. And that epilouge....Can't wait to see what unfolds!
Kidnapping and lies. Secrets and betrayal. This story pulls you in and doesn't let you go. I physically ached for Alina. Her despair and loneliness my own at times. And the wild twists and turns kept me guessing. And that epilouge....Can't wait to see what unfolds!
July 26, 2026
I am so excited that I stumbled across this book. The story pulled me in from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down. I loved watching Princess Alina grow and struggle into her new world. I am rooting for Alina and Kael and cannot wait to see what happens in book 2.
August 14, 2026
what a read!
From the first chapter I didn’t want to put the book down, I have loved the character developments throughout the story! I was not expecting the last sentence in the book though!! Cannot wait to continue the story with book 2 ☺️
From the first chapter I didn’t want to put the book down, I have loved the character developments throughout the story! I was not expecting the last sentence in the book though!! Cannot wait to continue the story with book 2 ☺️
July 18, 2026
This book is a page turner and very inspiring for everyone who are looking to find a place that they belong. A journey of finding oneself, being a rebel and a love story and you have a great story.
July 24, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
July 28, 2026
This is the first book I’ve read from this author and did not know what to expect. It has a good story line but I felt there was more to Karl’s story than he’s not telling the Princess and he’s not being truthful with her. I can’t wait to read what’s in store between the King and his Princess in the next book.
June 30, 2026
Enter a world of magic and war
This story is riveting and keeps you on your toes. Just when you think you have it figured out in come a curve ball to make you doubt everything. Can't wait for the next book!
This story is riveting and keeps you on your toes. Just when you think you have it figured out in come a curve ball to make you doubt everything. Can't wait for the next book!
June 26, 2026
cozy read
I really enjoyed this book once I got into it! It was definitely a slow start at first however, truck on because the FMC develops so well! Beautiful character and world building! The banter was really fun and I love the FMC and MMC together. I think it works very well and I love them!
I really enjoyed this book once I got into it! It was definitely a slow start at first however, truck on because the FMC develops so well! Beautiful character and world building! The banter was really fun and I love the FMC and MMC together. I think it works very well and I love them!
July 16, 2026
This is a true enemies to lovers story Alina a princess who wants more love from her parents, but her life is traditional. As a people pleaser she wishes to rebel secretly. So when she meets Kael a rebel and is spirited away to a cold dark place instead of her palace. while here she meets more characters with gifts. She doubts herself and also learns the rebels are homeless and starving not what she has always believed or what her parents told her . she goes on a journey of self discovery, and then a romance begins with Kael. I really enjoyed the story especially the cliff hanger ending. Can’t wait to read book two!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
THIS IS AN ARC REVIEW Of AN ADVANCE COPY
Well, where to start, probably with a synopsis of the plot. Our heroine is a princess living a luxury lifestyle in the palace, though all is not what it seems and we come to understand that her life is not her own. That her life is tightly bound to order, tradition, dictated by her parents whom she wishes would show more love and affection towards her. She tries to please everyone but a small part of her also wishes to rebel against the dictates of palace life.
She gets her wish when she is abducted by a mysterious group led by a rebel named Kael Stormborne and whisked away to a place the opposite of the gilded palace, cold and foreboding.
From here the plot develops slowly and in some places grindingly slowly. There is a lot of deep narrative in the first few chapters that I quite struggled with, although I do get that the author is trying to give us an understanding of the place and the people that our heroine, Alina is now among - rebels, some of whom have ‘a Gift’.
She is told she also has one and various methods are used to try and bring it forth with varying success rates, leading to Alina questioning her worth among the rebels, especially as whisperings against her have begun, including the accusation that she is a palace spy! She learns that what she knew of her previous life in the palace was built on lies and that the people she is with now are starving and homeless. How does she relate to her situation and what’s going on around her and the people that she interacts with? Are they family? Is she worthy of being among them? Does she have enough regard for herself to feel that she should belong in their world and can she play a useful role?
The story really picked up for me when Alina reaches rock bottom and goes on her journey of self discovery.
Her courage and fortitude is in direct contrast to the thoughts going on around her head at this time and I guess, maybe some of us have been in a similar situation at one time or another, so will relate to this part of her journey.
The romance with Kael is slow-burn and he holds back a lot at first. The dialogue between them came across as forced in places which was frustrating and when she returned after her journey of self-discovery I found it difficult to relate that she would just forgive instantly, after his last parting words to her! I might have been inclined to give him a sore cheek on my return!
However, let me finish by saying that I really enjoyed this book, the story has caught me, the characters have grown on me and I am looking forward to seeing how their fight for a normal life for they and their family progresses. Winds and Whispers, blow strong and shout loud in book 2!!
Well, where to start, probably with a synopsis of the plot. Our heroine is a princess living a luxury lifestyle in the palace, though all is not what it seems and we come to understand that her life is not her own. That her life is tightly bound to order, tradition, dictated by her parents whom she wishes would show more love and affection towards her. She tries to please everyone but a small part of her also wishes to rebel against the dictates of palace life.
She gets her wish when she is abducted by a mysterious group led by a rebel named Kael Stormborne and whisked away to a place the opposite of the gilded palace, cold and foreboding.
From here the plot develops slowly and in some places grindingly slowly. There is a lot of deep narrative in the first few chapters that I quite struggled with, although I do get that the author is trying to give us an understanding of the place and the people that our heroine, Alina is now among - rebels, some of whom have ‘a Gift’.
She is told she also has one and various methods are used to try and bring it forth with varying success rates, leading to Alina questioning her worth among the rebels, especially as whisperings against her have begun, including the accusation that she is a palace spy! She learns that what she knew of her previous life in the palace was built on lies and that the people she is with now are starving and homeless. How does she relate to her situation and what’s going on around her and the people that she interacts with? Are they family? Is she worthy of being among them? Does she have enough regard for herself to feel that she should belong in their world and can she play a useful role?
The story really picked up for me when Alina reaches rock bottom and goes on her journey of self discovery.
Her courage and fortitude is in direct contrast to the thoughts going on around her head at this time and I guess, maybe some of us have been in a similar situation at one time or another, so will relate to this part of her journey.
The romance with Kael is slow-burn and he holds back a lot at first. The dialogue between them came across as forced in places which was frustrating and when she returned after her journey of self-discovery I found it difficult to relate that she would just forgive instantly, after his last parting words to her! I might have been inclined to give him a sore cheek on my return!
However, let me finish by saying that I really enjoyed this book, the story has caught me, the characters have grown on me and I am looking forward to seeing how their fight for a normal life for they and their family progresses. Winds and Whispers, blow strong and shout loud in book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Leaving us on a cliffhanger? I need to know what happens!
Alina is a young princess who is raised very strictly with harsh judgments from her parents.
Until someone makes a massive change in her life. She finds herself looking for the truth, discovering who she is and fighting for what is right. Despite all the hate she receives and the difficulties along the way, Alina keeps her head up and keeps trying.
Along the way she meets enemies, friends, love, hate and loneliness.
But will she succeed in her battle for what is right?
This book is really good. The world building begins really heavily, and then focuses more on the storyline. I love that however it takes a bit more time to get in to the book. But from moment one I was intrigued by Alina, Kael and many more characters in this book.
Rina writes a story that you can read easily but still have to pay attention.
And I felt so many emotions from about page 250 onward they went all places.
Thank you Rina for sending me the arc of your book!
If you like:
- enemies to lovers
- fighting for what is right
- an intriguing magic system
And an strong female main character?
Read this book!
Alina is a young princess who is raised very strictly with harsh judgments from her parents.
Until someone makes a massive change in her life. She finds herself looking for the truth, discovering who she is and fighting for what is right. Despite all the hate she receives and the difficulties along the way, Alina keeps her head up and keeps trying.
Along the way she meets enemies, friends, love, hate and loneliness.
But will she succeed in her battle for what is right?
This book is really good. The world building begins really heavily, and then focuses more on the storyline. I love that however it takes a bit more time to get in to the book. But from moment one I was intrigued by Alina, Kael and many more characters in this book.
Rina writes a story that you can read easily but still have to pay attention.
And I felt so many emotions from about page 250 onward they went all places.
Thank you Rina for sending me the arc of your book!
If you like:
- enemies to lovers
- fighting for what is right
- an intriguing magic system
And an strong female main character?
Read this book!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
In a nutshell, be ready for a slower, meaningful, story driven narrative. A journey of self and inner learning and discovery. “Who are you? Where do you belong? Who do you choose to have as family? Who do you choose to love”?. Most of us can relate to that journey.
MFC- Alina -loneliness was mostly what she had ever felt, and it was palpable (and relatable). Her journey was illuminating. It was a real “hero’s journey” and a very challenging one, most of it done by herself. She had friends assisting her. Kael was a solid pillar of support with what he could do at those moments, with how he knew to be and act at those moments (which changed).
Alina underwent an inner journey of self discovery and I believe that many people will relate to it. It was beautiful, it was lonely, it had much confusion related to feelings, suffering, letting those inner dark voices tell you all of the things you think you are not. When she finally left for her “final journey” was when the final transformation took place. The joinery of finding out who she really was, and coming back the person she had chosen to be; be with the people she chose to stay with, and love. A journey of acceptance that we are all broken and flawed, but that we can be broken together and that makes us stronger.
MMC- Kael: a broken man, but with a good heart. His journey has been a very demanding and difficult one until the very end of what we see in this book. He was a true support for Alina, giving her what she needed to grow and not just tucking her away in protection, decreasing her power. He pushed her to become her own self, within her own power. He started to become complete when Alina was back at his side.
THAT ending… omg!! What a backstab to come!
ARC reader- thank you for this wonderful author for letting me ARC review this beautiful work. In return I'm leaving a free honest feedback..
MFC- Alina -loneliness was mostly what she had ever felt, and it was palpable (and relatable). Her journey was illuminating. It was a real “hero’s journey” and a very challenging one, most of it done by herself. She had friends assisting her. Kael was a solid pillar of support with what he could do at those moments, with how he knew to be and act at those moments (which changed).
Alina underwent an inner journey of self discovery and I believe that many people will relate to it. It was beautiful, it was lonely, it had much confusion related to feelings, suffering, letting those inner dark voices tell you all of the things you think you are not. When she finally left for her “final journey” was when the final transformation took place. The joinery of finding out who she really was, and coming back the person she had chosen to be; be with the people she chose to stay with, and love. A journey of acceptance that we are all broken and flawed, but that we can be broken together and that makes us stronger.
MMC- Kael: a broken man, but with a good heart. His journey has been a very demanding and difficult one until the very end of what we see in this book. He was a true support for Alina, giving her what she needed to grow and not just tucking her away in protection, decreasing her power. He pushed her to become her own self, within her own power. He started to become complete when Alina was back at his side.
THAT ending… omg!! What a backstab to come!
ARC reader- thank you for this wonderful author for letting me ARC review this beautiful work. In return I'm leaving a free honest feedback..
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC READER REVIEW
Winds and Whispers is a book centred around Alina, a princess who once kidnapped, realises the extent of the hurt her family has caused the citizens of the realm. A lot of the story is surrounded by loneliness and longing to fit in and find out the truth.
I wanted to love this so badly. I'm at the 45% mark and I don't think I want to continue.
There are a few plot holes I personally found really hard to look past, there are scenes that are similar to what I've read in other romantasy novels.
I am really sad that this wasn't for me but I really hope this is wonderful for others.
Winds and Whispers is a book centred around Alina, a princess who once kidnapped, realises the extent of the hurt her family has caused the citizens of the realm. A lot of the story is surrounded by loneliness and longing to fit in and find out the truth.
I wanted to love this so badly. I'm at the 45% mark and I don't think I want to continue.
There are a few plot holes I personally found really hard to look past, there are scenes that are similar to what I've read in other romantasy novels.
I am really sad that this wasn't for me but I really hope this is wonderful for others.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a book to savor, not rush through. What a wonderful start to what I hope will be a multiple book series.
I enjoyed the characters tremendously. They weren't one dimensional or shallow, instead they were well fleshed out and experienced tremendous growth and maturity. It helped the reading experience, enough so that you felt you were along for the journey.
Nice plot and storyline to escape into. Pacing was well done also.
Many thanks to the author, Rina Thorne, for providing an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
I can't wait for the next book!
Highly recommend!
I enjoyed the characters tremendously. They weren't one dimensional or shallow, instead they were well fleshed out and experienced tremendous growth and maturity. It helped the reading experience, enough so that you felt you were along for the journey.
Nice plot and storyline to escape into. Pacing was well done also.
Many thanks to the author, Rina Thorne, for providing an ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
I can't wait for the next book!
Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for my honest review - and here it is:
I loved this book!!
I very much enjoyed the pace of the book -
It starts off slowly but then really picks up pace and becomes quite intense at times.
What excites me the most are the characters and their development – their growth, doubts, emotions, and thoughts, all within a story that is very thrilling and set in a world that completely drew me in.
I cant wait to read the next book of the series!
Highly recommended!!
I loved this book!!
I very much enjoyed the pace of the book -
It starts off slowly but then really picks up pace and becomes quite intense at times.
What excites me the most are the characters and their development – their growth, doubts, emotions, and thoughts, all within a story that is very thrilling and set in a world that completely drew me in.
I cant wait to read the next book of the series!
Highly recommended!!
June 28, 2026
I found that even though the story took a bit of time to get going, it was worth it. The characters were well thought out and grew along with the story. I enjoyed being able to see the depth of the changes within them. I'm not usually one for a steamy read but the scenes added dimension to the overall story development and didn't feel like they were added just to draw readers.
It was well written both with regards to the characters and the world building. I would recommend it to anyone who leans in the direction of romance but needs more substance.
It was well written both with regards to the characters and the world building. I would recommend it to anyone who leans in the direction of romance but needs more substance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
REVIEW OF ARC COPY
This book was so good, it had a slow start but it showed how laborious Alinas life was at the beginning, it obviously picked up as the story went on. I enjoyed the storyline and especially enjoyed Alina finding herself and her gift, not with the people you expect, but with others entirely.
I actually guessed the ending in this book and now cannot wait to read the rest!!
Such an exciting story with great characters!
This book was so good, it had a slow start but it showed how laborious Alinas life was at the beginning, it obviously picked up as the story went on. I enjoyed the storyline and especially enjoyed Alina finding herself and her gift, not with the people you expect, but with others entirely.
I actually guessed the ending in this book and now cannot wait to read the rest!!
Such an exciting story with great characters!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy direct from the author.
I enjoyed this book the characters are complex and the plot building was a slow burn which made the story more interesting and built the different characters into the storyline nicely.
If you’re looking for spice this would not be the book for you.
Would definitely read another book written by Rina
Highly recommend
I enjoyed this book the characters are complex and the plot building was a slow burn which made the story more interesting and built the different characters into the storyline nicely.
If you’re looking for spice this would not be the book for you.
Would definitely read another book written by Rina
Highly recommend
August 24, 2026
Winds and Whispers pulled me in with its mix of forbidden magic, rebellion, romance, and secrets. Alina’s journey from a sheltered princess to a woman discovering her own strength was especially compelling. The slow-burn connection with Kael added just the right amount of tension, while the found-family element gave the story real heart. I loved the emotional depth, twists, and atmosphere throughout. A captivating romantasy that kept me invested until the very end!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Review of an advanced copy from the Author
Beautiful story and a journey of self discovery. This ruined me and brought me back, so well written and the best thing I have read this year by far. With an FMC that sets off on a journey to find herself and an MMC that is willing to wait for her to choose. Loved it 🥰
Beautiful story and a journey of self discovery. This ruined me and brought me back, so well written and the best thing I have read this year by far. With an FMC that sets off on a journey to find herself and an MMC that is willing to wait for her to choose. Loved it 🥰
July 18, 2026
Beautifully written, the story follows Princess Alina who begins as a restless pampered princess who craves genuine affection and interactions. We follow her journey, her doubts and insecurities while she's pulled into a war where she has to learn who she is and what she truly believes in.
A little slow at times but overall a great story, looking forward to the next one!
A little slow at times but overall a great story, looking forward to the next one!
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