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By Blood, Shadow, and Fire
Marked by gods. Hunted by fate. Bound to a warrior she shouldn’t want.
In a realm teetering on the edge of war, Islyn never asked to be chosen—by the gods, by destiny, or by the dangerously compelling warrior sworn to protect her. But power like hers doesn’t stay hidden for long. As ancient forces stir and enemies close in, she must navigate a world of secrets, shifting alliances, and a connection that burns hotter than it should.
Caught between duty and desire, Islyn has to decide who she can trust—and what she’s willing to become to survive.
By Blood, Shadow & Fire is a sweeping fantasy romance about fate, forbidden longing, and the kind of magic that demands everything.
In a realm teetering on the edge of war, Islyn never asked to be chosen—by the gods, by destiny, or by the dangerously compelling warrior sworn to protect her. But power like hers doesn’t stay hidden for long. As ancient forces stir and enemies close in, she must navigate a world of secrets, shifting alliances, and a connection that burns hotter than it should.
Caught between duty and desire, Islyn has to decide who she can trust—and what she’s willing to become to survive.
By Blood, Shadow & Fire is a sweeping fantasy romance about fate, forbidden longing, and the kind of magic that demands everything.
502 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2026
33 people are currently reading
438 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
February 18, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
This story grabbed me immediately because of the prologue and for a debut novel, it’s perfect.
As the first installment, it has a really good start and the intrigue between gods and humans is strong. However, I think the plot began to focus solely on the bond between islyn and ferric. Which is fine but it became dull over time (i dont care for insta-love tropes but i understand it tied to the story here) and there is a lot of back and forth then it picks up later on.
The writing is very well done and I enjoyed its world building. The gods are dangerous and cunning so the role Islyn plays is intense but i really enjoyed her character. She doesn’t back down from the fight.
I am looking forward to her story in the next book because the ending was great and I love her feminine rage! 👌🏼🙂↔️
If you like:
- gods & monsters
- feminine rage
- forced proximity
- dual POV
- she’s stronger than him
This story grabbed me immediately because of the prologue and for a debut novel, it’s perfect.
As the first installment, it has a really good start and the intrigue between gods and humans is strong. However, I think the plot began to focus solely on the bond between islyn and ferric. Which is fine but it became dull over time (i dont care for insta-love tropes but i understand it tied to the story here) and there is a lot of back and forth then it picks up later on.
The writing is very well done and I enjoyed its world building. The gods are dangerous and cunning so the role Islyn plays is intense but i really enjoyed her character. She doesn’t back down from the fight.
I am looking forward to her story in the next book because the ending was great and I love her feminine rage! 👌🏼🙂↔️
If you like:
- gods & monsters
- feminine rage
- forced proximity
- dual POV
- she’s stronger than him
February 25, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
There is no question that Orin Steele can write, and the story concept was intriguing. The start of the book had me invested. Unfortunately it was short lived for me due to a few reasons.
One, there was a lot of repetition, over explaining and saying the same thing three different ways. This pulled me right out of the story.
There were many points in the book where I also felt like I must have missed something, I must not understand, but it was actually either not explained or not explained clearly.
Islyn and Ferric are the main characters and love interests in the book, and unfortunately their constant battle on whether to be together was a large portion of the book, which distracted from the main storyline and really slowed down the pacing. A little back and forth is expected and welcomed, but it was a constant narrative. The book is pitched as a fantasy with romance, but 75% of the book is rooted in the romance storyline and so I think it’s better categorized as a Romantasy.
The book shifts very quickly around the 80% mark, back to very fast paced and probably some of the more interesting parts of the story, but by this time the development wasn’t there for the big moments to have the proper emotional payoff.
The foundation is there, the idea is great, and Orin’s writing has the skill to make something great. Unfortunately this story just didn’t come together in the end and pull me in.
There is no question that Orin Steele can write, and the story concept was intriguing. The start of the book had me invested. Unfortunately it was short lived for me due to a few reasons.
One, there was a lot of repetition, over explaining and saying the same thing three different ways. This pulled me right out of the story.
There were many points in the book where I also felt like I must have missed something, I must not understand, but it was actually either not explained or not explained clearly.
Islyn and Ferric are the main characters and love interests in the book, and unfortunately their constant battle on whether to be together was a large portion of the book, which distracted from the main storyline and really slowed down the pacing. A little back and forth is expected and welcomed, but it was a constant narrative. The book is pitched as a fantasy with romance, but 75% of the book is rooted in the romance storyline and so I think it’s better categorized as a Romantasy.
The book shifts very quickly around the 80% mark, back to very fast paced and probably some of the more interesting parts of the story, but by this time the development wasn’t there for the big moments to have the proper emotional payoff.
The foundation is there, the idea is great, and Orin’s writing has the skill to make something great. Unfortunately this story just didn’t come together in the end and pull me in.
May 1, 2026
ARC review
4.5 stars rounded up to 5! An incredibly, incredibly strong debut. Orin’s writing so so beautiful! Full RTC once I digest and go back to review all of the breadcrumbs. (Annotating girlies, this book is for you!)
Thank you to Orin Steele, NetGalley, and Emrae Publishing for the ARC!
4.5 stars rounded up to 5! An incredibly, incredibly strong debut. Orin’s writing so so beautiful! Full RTC once I digest and go back to review all of the breadcrumbs. (Annotating girlies, this book is for you!)
Thank you to Orin Steele, NetGalley, and Emrae Publishing for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Occasionally readers are blessed with a debut author who sinks directly into your soul. Orin is that author. Her words are descriptive and build a stunning world ripe with layers of trauma and yearning. Islyn has always hid from the world but now she longs to know what she really is. Touched by the Gods, but hidden in cloaks of fear and pain, she must decide who she wants to be. Beyond the well written, multi-faceted female main character, Orin created something truly breathtaking. Her world varies by area but also blends seamlessly together as the characters move across the continent.
The realms of Gods intermingle and display elements of Greek, Roman, and other ancient mythologies. This principle of Gods gifting mortals with their touch at birth is very distinct depending on the God. Each God handles this gift differently as we learn early on. Islyn is a heartbroken, young woman who has walked through hell. She is willing to do anything to actually understand where she belongs. Orin gifted us with this story. I laughed, I cried, my jaw was on the floor. That ending had my heart pounding.
I cannot express my gratitude enough for being gifted this story to read early. I will shout Orin's praises from the rooftop and wait with bated breath for the rest of Islyn's story.
The realms of Gods intermingle and display elements of Greek, Roman, and other ancient mythologies. This principle of Gods gifting mortals with their touch at birth is very distinct depending on the God. Each God handles this gift differently as we learn early on. Islyn is a heartbroken, young woman who has walked through hell. She is willing to do anything to actually understand where she belongs. Orin gifted us with this story. I laughed, I cried, my jaw was on the floor. That ending had my heart pounding.
I cannot express my gratitude enough for being gifted this story to read early. I will shout Orin's praises from the rooftop and wait with bated breath for the rest of Islyn's story.
May 2, 2026
At the start of this story I was all in, it sounded like an epic fantasy with romance aspects. The more I read however, the more the story devolved. It’s actually a romantasy where the main characters spend most of the story going back and forth on if they should be together. Islyn starts to act and respond like a child to any obstacle in her path- it drove me crazy. As well, the plot felt like chunks of it were missing or had been edited out. This led to me questioning the continuity, if I had missed something, but even after going back to the original context I didn’t get clarity. There is so much info dumping at the beginning of the book, you really have to keep track of all these places, names, and then godly realms as well. It was too much too fast.
This book had so much potential, I really don’t know what happened to it.
Thank you anyways to the author, NetGalley, and Emrae Publishing for a copy.
This book had so much potential, I really don’t know what happened to it.
Thank you anyways to the author, NetGalley, and Emrae Publishing for a copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC via NetGalley.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an immersive, fantastically detailed high fantasy book. The worldbuilding is epic. We’re given a codex at the beginning introducing the gods, their elemental powers, the lands, and the deities who reside in each realm, as well as a map — which immediately sets the tone for something big. It all feels very thought out and layered. The prologue is what really hooks you. It’s a fantastic way to build intrigue right from the start and makes you want to keep reading.
Islyn’s grief is the emotional core of the story and shapes so much of who she is. The loss of the life she could have had, if she hadn’t been born marked by the gods and hunted, really explains her rage and gives her depth beyond just being “chosen.” The pacing is on the slower side, but not in a bad way. It feels deliberate and very typical of high fantasy, where the focus is on building the world and laying the groundwork. There are quite a few side characters introduced who will likely become important later in the series, though it would have been nice to see more development from some of them in this first book.
Ferric, a general of one of the gods, is an interesting counterpart to Islyn. I’m excited to see how he continues to balance his sense of duty with his feelings for her. Both characters are likeable, layered, and clearly have more growth ahead of them. I would say this leans more into fated mates than slow-burn romance, but either way the pull between them kept me invested and eager to see them finally admit their feelings and act on it.
Overall, this feels like a strong start to a larger series. I’m very excited to follow Islyn and Ferric’s journey, both emotionally and physically, and I’ll definitely be continuing.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an immersive, fantastically detailed high fantasy book. The worldbuilding is epic. We’re given a codex at the beginning introducing the gods, their elemental powers, the lands, and the deities who reside in each realm, as well as a map — which immediately sets the tone for something big. It all feels very thought out and layered. The prologue is what really hooks you. It’s a fantastic way to build intrigue right from the start and makes you want to keep reading.
Islyn’s grief is the emotional core of the story and shapes so much of who she is. The loss of the life she could have had, if she hadn’t been born marked by the gods and hunted, really explains her rage and gives her depth beyond just being “chosen.” The pacing is on the slower side, but not in a bad way. It feels deliberate and very typical of high fantasy, where the focus is on building the world and laying the groundwork. There are quite a few side characters introduced who will likely become important later in the series, though it would have been nice to see more development from some of them in this first book.
Ferric, a general of one of the gods, is an interesting counterpart to Islyn. I’m excited to see how he continues to balance his sense of duty with his feelings for her. Both characters are likeable, layered, and clearly have more growth ahead of them. I would say this leans more into fated mates than slow-burn romance, but either way the pull between them kept me invested and eager to see them finally admit their feelings and act on it.
Overall, this feels like a strong start to a larger series. I’m very excited to follow Islyn and Ferric’s journey, both emotionally and physically, and I’ll definitely be continuing.
April 6, 2026
With more breadcrumbs than a loaf of bread, I have never highlighted a book so much in my life, with 250+ highlights.
The prologue of this book absolutely ate, and the rest of the story kept me hungry for more.
The world-building in this story is simply delicious. With magic gifted from the gods, rare mates, and secrets galore, I was invested every step of the way.
The yearning, connection, and value the FMC and MMC hold for each other have my heart in knots.
The pacing at the end was fantastic! When I finished the book, I was left with big “Let’s Go!“ energy. This book is an absolutely great start to the series - I will continue this series without question.
Thank you to Emrae Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC of By Blood, Shadow, and Fire (Severed Oaths Book One) by Orin Steele.
The prologue of this book absolutely ate, and the rest of the story kept me hungry for more.
The world-building in this story is simply delicious. With magic gifted from the gods, rare mates, and secrets galore, I was invested every step of the way.
The yearning, connection, and value the FMC and MMC hold for each other have my heart in knots.
The pacing at the end was fantastic! When I finished the book, I was left with big “Let’s Go!“ energy. This book is an absolutely great start to the series - I will continue this series without question.
Thank you to Emrae Publishing and NetGalley for the eARC of By Blood, Shadow, and Fire (Severed Oaths Book One) by Orin Steele.
May 1, 2026
I am so conflicted on what to rate this book. I wanted to love it so much! Orin’s writing is beautiful, and I can absolutely see an amazing story here, but unfortunately, I just don’t think it quite made it onto the page.
Although it had a really strong start, nothing really seemed to happen throughout most of the book. I felt like 2/3 of it was just the two main characters going back and forth about whether they should let themselves be together or not and throwing tantrums when something didn’t go their way.
We meet a few great side characters, but we don’t get to know them at all, and most of them only appear for a few pages. Which is unfortunate, because they did really seem like they could have added to the story!
It’s interesting. I almost felt like things were cut out that maybe shouldn’t have been. There were moments in the story, especially in the first half or so, when the dialogue suggested something had already been discussed, but even going back through, I couldn’t find where. Even some of those side characters I mentioned, I felt like we were supposed to know more about them than we did. It gave the story a very disjointed feel, for sure.
I’m so frustrated. This book has a spark to it that not very many debut novels do! The writing drew me in instantly, and honestly, I fully expected this to be an easy five star read, just based on the writing style alone. I think that Orin Steele has an amazing natural talent!! As a debut author, I think she did a wonderful job with this book! A little more experience, and maybe a little bit more support from a good editor, I think we could have a truly incredible author on our hands. 🙌✨
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Emrae publishing for the ARC 💕
I am honestly so impressed. I’m really lucky that I get to read a lot of ARCs, and not all of them hit but this one absolutely did. I am blown away that this is Orin’s first novel.
From the very beginning, I kept catching myself thinking, holy crap this is her debut? The writing is beautiful. The world building is lush and immersive, and some of the landscapes she created genuinely stuck with me. The magic system feels both unique and comfortably familiar. Gods, elemental powers (water, fire, earth), celestial forces like the moon and sun etc. it all blends together in a way that feels fun without being overwhelming.
I especially loved the inclusion of the Codex at the beginning. Not only did it introduce names, but it helped orient us in the world and understand the magic before diving in. As a reader, that makes such a difference. I don’t always love being thrown into chapter one with no context and expected to piece everything together on my own so this felt thoughtful and intentional. And opening with a dark, heavy prologue that clearly sets the tone?! I was hooked immediately.
You all know I can be picky about a female main character. I’ll be honest there were moments where she absolutely frustrated me. But what I appreciated so much is that by the end, she recognized her mistakes and owned them. That kind of character growth matters. I’ve read entire series where I’m six books in and still don’t connect with the FMC so seeing that self-awareness and development here really stood out.
Ferric was another highlight for me. A protective, steady MMC who would burn the world down for her 🤤Yes, please. But he wasn’t just protective, he had depth. His backstory added weight to his choices, and I really enjoyed the way he was written. For a debut author, crafting an MMC like that is seriously impressive.
If I had one piece of constructive feedback, it would be about the supporting cast. Outside of the two main characters, I didn’t feel like any secondary character fully stepped into the spotlight. There are several interesting side characters, especially her brothers, but I still have so many questions about Aleksi in particular. I would love to see those relationships and backstories explored more deeply in future installments.
The pacing did feel a little uneven in places especially around the 40–60% mark where things slowed down. However, once I reached the end, I understood why so much detail was layered in. The first book in a series always carries the heavy responsibility of building the foundation, and that takes space. The romance also leaned very slow-burn at first and then accelerated quickly once it shifted. In future books, a slightly smoother transition in pacing could elevate the story even more but importantly, there were no plot holes. When explanations were needed, they were handled clearly and thoughtfully.
Overall, I am genuinely impressed. This is such a strong debut, and it shows so much promise. I’m incredibly excited to see where this series goes next, because if this is the starting point? The future is bright.
Truly such an accomplishment for a first novel. 👏✨
P.S. I’m also slightly obsessed because the author was born in Michigan 💙💛
I am honestly so impressed. I’m really lucky that I get to read a lot of ARCs, and not all of them hit but this one absolutely did. I am blown away that this is Orin’s first novel.
From the very beginning, I kept catching myself thinking, holy crap this is her debut? The writing is beautiful. The world building is lush and immersive, and some of the landscapes she created genuinely stuck with me. The magic system feels both unique and comfortably familiar. Gods, elemental powers (water, fire, earth), celestial forces like the moon and sun etc. it all blends together in a way that feels fun without being overwhelming.
I especially loved the inclusion of the Codex at the beginning. Not only did it introduce names, but it helped orient us in the world and understand the magic before diving in. As a reader, that makes such a difference. I don’t always love being thrown into chapter one with no context and expected to piece everything together on my own so this felt thoughtful and intentional. And opening with a dark, heavy prologue that clearly sets the tone?! I was hooked immediately.
You all know I can be picky about a female main character. I’ll be honest there were moments where she absolutely frustrated me. But what I appreciated so much is that by the end, she recognized her mistakes and owned them. That kind of character growth matters. I’ve read entire series where I’m six books in and still don’t connect with the FMC so seeing that self-awareness and development here really stood out.
Ferric was another highlight for me. A protective, steady MMC who would burn the world down for her 🤤Yes, please. But he wasn’t just protective, he had depth. His backstory added weight to his choices, and I really enjoyed the way he was written. For a debut author, crafting an MMC like that is seriously impressive.
If I had one piece of constructive feedback, it would be about the supporting cast. Outside of the two main characters, I didn’t feel like any secondary character fully stepped into the spotlight. There are several interesting side characters, especially her brothers, but I still have so many questions about Aleksi in particular. I would love to see those relationships and backstories explored more deeply in future installments.
The pacing did feel a little uneven in places especially around the 40–60% mark where things slowed down. However, once I reached the end, I understood why so much detail was layered in. The first book in a series always carries the heavy responsibility of building the foundation, and that takes space. The romance also leaned very slow-burn at first and then accelerated quickly once it shifted. In future books, a slightly smoother transition in pacing could elevate the story even more but importantly, there were no plot holes. When explanations were needed, they were handled clearly and thoughtfully.
Overall, I am genuinely impressed. This is such a strong debut, and it shows so much promise. I’m incredibly excited to see where this series goes next, because if this is the starting point? The future is bright.
Truly such an accomplishment for a first novel. 👏✨
P.S. I’m also slightly obsessed because the author was born in Michigan 💙💛
March 13, 2026
Thank you so much to the author and the publisher, Emrae Publishing, for sharing an ARC of this book with me on NetGalley !!!
“Your path, Islyn, is complex. For you possess strengths and destinies even I cannot fully discern”
“And when Ferric Shadowhunter - Santallan General and Grandmaster Spy - called, the stars answered”
What a ride. Wild. Extraordinary. Beautiful. complicated. Twisted at times. With darkness shadowing every step of our characters. I really loved this book. It pulled me in so far that I simply couldn’t stop reading. I finished it in one sitting. The story of a young girl grown up protected from the world who was after her powers only to having to leave her home, with their parents’ blessing, to train and save the world. The guardian master who made a promise and does not want to break it, until it’s too hard to keep pretending. Islyn and Ferrin’s story is one for the history books. It’s an enemies to allies to lovers and it’s on him falling first and the hardest. It’s also them against the world. And it’s spicy. Sad at times. Wonderfully hopeful others. It’s amazingly human and it also deals with deep feelings such as grief. The darkness surrounding their destiny and the uncertainty of their future are masterfully balance by the overwhelming sensation of their love. Beautiful !!! I can’t wait do other people to read this, and I can’t wait for the next one !!!
“You are extraordinary. You don’t see it yet. But if you did - if you accepted what you are - you wouldn’t just survive. You’d be unstoppable”
“Gods, I crave you. Your power Signa to me … I need you”
“Your path, Islyn, is complex. For you possess strengths and destinies even I cannot fully discern”
“And when Ferric Shadowhunter - Santallan General and Grandmaster Spy - called, the stars answered”
What a ride. Wild. Extraordinary. Beautiful. complicated. Twisted at times. With darkness shadowing every step of our characters. I really loved this book. It pulled me in so far that I simply couldn’t stop reading. I finished it in one sitting. The story of a young girl grown up protected from the world who was after her powers only to having to leave her home, with their parents’ blessing, to train and save the world. The guardian master who made a promise and does not want to break it, until it’s too hard to keep pretending. Islyn and Ferrin’s story is one for the history books. It’s an enemies to allies to lovers and it’s on him falling first and the hardest. It’s also them against the world. And it’s spicy. Sad at times. Wonderfully hopeful others. It’s amazingly human and it also deals with deep feelings such as grief. The darkness surrounding their destiny and the uncertainty of their future are masterfully balance by the overwhelming sensation of their love. Beautiful !!! I can’t wait do other people to read this, and I can’t wait for the next one !!!
“You are extraordinary. You don’t see it yet. But if you did - if you accepted what you are - you wouldn’t just survive. You’d be unstoppable”
“Gods, I crave you. Your power Signa to me … I need you”
April 29, 2026
“I am consumed by her. I see her every time I close my eyes. When I am not near her, my bones ache and my spirit weakens. She is my strength, my spirit, my soul.”
✨✨✨
Thank you so much to Orin Steele, Victory Editing and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this book.
I adored this book, its complex, twisty, full of soul, shifting alliances and elemental magic. The story is original, and unlike anything I’ve ever read before, with characters that feel connective and likeable for their faults and troubles as well as their positives.
It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, so be warned, but it’s worth it! The way that the storyline develops and weaves together past, present and future is really interesting to read, and had me second guessing what I thought I knew!
The FMC, Islyn, is someone who was chosen by not only one, but two of the Gods at birth, but was hidden away and trained to run from them through the fear of her family. As it goes, there’s a multitude of reasons she should be, the fact that both Gods are trying to claim her power is only first on the list. Her story is driven by her guilt and grief, in the most powerful way, and her battle to choose what life she wants to lead.
Our MMC Ferric is her Guardian, he’s watching over her and helping her on their task to find a relic that could save her kind - those chosen by the Gods - and ultimately the world. He’s a really interesting counterpart to Islyn and the two have an undeniable chemistry, that’s just the best slow burn, denied passion, on the page. He’ll go wherever she leads, and he’ll respect her choice in the end too.
I honestly can’t believe that this is Orion’s debut novel, it’s fantastic and it’s one that’s going to stay with me for a long time, having quickly made its way into my favourites! I absolutely cannot wait to see where the story goes next, thank you Orin for writing something so compelling and gripping, and for allowing me to read an ARC.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
✨✨✨
Thank you so much to Orin Steele, Victory Editing and NetGalley for sending me an ARC of this book.
I adored this book, its complex, twisty, full of soul, shifting alliances and elemental magic. The story is original, and unlike anything I’ve ever read before, with characters that feel connective and likeable for their faults and troubles as well as their positives.
It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, so be warned, but it’s worth it! The way that the storyline develops and weaves together past, present and future is really interesting to read, and had me second guessing what I thought I knew!
The FMC, Islyn, is someone who was chosen by not only one, but two of the Gods at birth, but was hidden away and trained to run from them through the fear of her family. As it goes, there’s a multitude of reasons she should be, the fact that both Gods are trying to claim her power is only first on the list. Her story is driven by her guilt and grief, in the most powerful way, and her battle to choose what life she wants to lead.
Our MMC Ferric is her Guardian, he’s watching over her and helping her on their task to find a relic that could save her kind - those chosen by the Gods - and ultimately the world. He’s a really interesting counterpart to Islyn and the two have an undeniable chemistry, that’s just the best slow burn, denied passion, on the page. He’ll go wherever she leads, and he’ll respect her choice in the end too.
I honestly can’t believe that this is Orion’s debut novel, it’s fantastic and it’s one that’s going to stay with me for a long time, having quickly made its way into my favourites! I absolutely cannot wait to see where the story goes next, thank you Orin for writing something so compelling and gripping, and for allowing me to read an ARC.
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
March 30, 2026
I’m so grateful to Orin Steele and NetGalley for the opportunity to read Blood, Shadow & Fire. From the very beginning, this story pulls you into a dark, intricate world filled with magic, power, and emotion that lingers long after you put the book down.
Within the first few pages, the world-building completely drew me in. At first, I’ll admit I felt a little overwhelmed—but that quickly turned into full immersion. The detail is rich and vivid, painting a world that feels alive and almost tangible. There are moments so intensely written I didn’t just read them—I experienced them. I could feel the passion, the anger… even the metallic edge of blood in the air.
The characters are beautifully developed, each one layered in a way that makes their relationships feel real. I felt the bonds, the friendships, the love—it all carried weight. When I was only about a third of the way through, this story had me completely hooked.
The slow burn between Islyn and Ferric? Absolutely perfect. Getting both of their perspectives makes the tension, the longing, and the quiet build of their connection even more powerful. You don’t just see it—you feel it.
The pacing kept my heart racing, pulling me deeper with every chapter… and then—that ending. It completely wrecked me. I’m still reeling, and I already need more. My mind is still reeling over the opening too!
I highly recommend this book, with warning.. it will reck you.
Within the first few pages, the world-building completely drew me in. At first, I’ll admit I felt a little overwhelmed—but that quickly turned into full immersion. The detail is rich and vivid, painting a world that feels alive and almost tangible. There are moments so intensely written I didn’t just read them—I experienced them. I could feel the passion, the anger… even the metallic edge of blood in the air.
The characters are beautifully developed, each one layered in a way that makes their relationships feel real. I felt the bonds, the friendships, the love—it all carried weight. When I was only about a third of the way through, this story had me completely hooked.
The slow burn between Islyn and Ferric? Absolutely perfect. Getting both of their perspectives makes the tension, the longing, and the quiet build of their connection even more powerful. You don’t just see it—you feel it.
The pacing kept my heart racing, pulling me deeper with every chapter… and then—that ending. It completely wrecked me. I’m still reeling, and I already need more. My mind is still reeling over the opening too!
I highly recommend this book, with warning.. it will reck you.
March 16, 2026
Wow. By Blood, Shadow and Fire absolutely blew me away!!
Like many fantasy books, this one takes a little time to really get going. The beginning is slower and focused heavily on world building and introducing the characters, which can feel a bit dense at first. But once the story finds its footing, it really takes off, and I was completely hooked. (Around 50-60%)
Ferric and Islyn completely stole the show for me. Their dynamic is everything. The romance is definitely a slow burn, but in the best possible way, and there’s a bit of a forbidden love element that made their moments together even more compelling. I found myself rooting for them the ENTIRE time!!
Islyn is also exactly the kind of FMC I love. She’s strong, fierce, and an absolute badass. The feminine rage in this book is very real, and I was here for every second of it. By the time I finished, I was already desperate for the next book. This story left me wanting more in the best way possible, and I cannot wait to see where the series goes from here!
Orin Steele, thank you for blessing us with such a strong debut. I’m really excited to see what the future holds for your writing career.💌
And a huge thank you to NetGalley and Emrae for allowing me to read this phenomenal ARC!!
Like many fantasy books, this one takes a little time to really get going. The beginning is slower and focused heavily on world building and introducing the characters, which can feel a bit dense at first. But once the story finds its footing, it really takes off, and I was completely hooked. (Around 50-60%)
Ferric and Islyn completely stole the show for me. Their dynamic is everything. The romance is definitely a slow burn, but in the best possible way, and there’s a bit of a forbidden love element that made their moments together even more compelling. I found myself rooting for them the ENTIRE time!!
Islyn is also exactly the kind of FMC I love. She’s strong, fierce, and an absolute badass. The feminine rage in this book is very real, and I was here for every second of it. By the time I finished, I was already desperate for the next book. This story left me wanting more in the best way possible, and I cannot wait to see where the series goes from here!
Orin Steele, thank you for blessing us with such a strong debut. I’m really excited to see what the future holds for your writing career.💌
And a huge thank you to NetGalley and Emrae for allowing me to read this phenomenal ARC!!
April 24, 2026
Thank you Orin Steele and Emrae Publishing for the eARC!!!
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5!
The magic in this story was really engaging and leaves a lot unanswered to be discovered in future books which I absolutely love. I don’t love when books give you everything in the first book. It makes me even more excited to keep reading book 2! 👀
I’m intrigued by the relationship between our FMC, Islyn, and MMC, Ferric. There’s a lot of back and forth with feelings and trust, and based on the prologue, I’m super curious to see how this shakes out! Our FMC is strong and confident in her abilities and cares about her family more than anything. She makes the hard decision to leave them and try to help tip the scales in this giant impending war from this section that isn’t known for embracing others with their magic. Islyn kinda goes through the wringer in this book!!! She is so strong and persistent. I’m really curious to see where things go in subsequent books.
Orin Steele writes in a way that draws you in, makes you want more, and makes you really care about the characters. I’m so thankful I got to read this early!
4.5 stars, rounded up to 5!
The magic in this story was really engaging and leaves a lot unanswered to be discovered in future books which I absolutely love. I don’t love when books give you everything in the first book. It makes me even more excited to keep reading book 2! 👀
I’m intrigued by the relationship between our FMC, Islyn, and MMC, Ferric. There’s a lot of back and forth with feelings and trust, and based on the prologue, I’m super curious to see how this shakes out! Our FMC is strong and confident in her abilities and cares about her family more than anything. She makes the hard decision to leave them and try to help tip the scales in this giant impending war from this section that isn’t known for embracing others with their magic. Islyn kinda goes through the wringer in this book!!! She is so strong and persistent. I’m really curious to see where things go in subsequent books.
Orin Steele writes in a way that draws you in, makes you want more, and makes you really care about the characters. I’m so thankful I got to read this early!
April 28, 2026
Arc Read: This book was everything Orin promised and more! I flew through it! It has been an honor to be a part of Orin’s team. It’s the perfect fantasy with a touch of romance. By Blood, Shadow and Fire is out now so go grab your copy and dive into Islyn’s story. The end was unexpected but it fit the story so well. Orin outdid herself and it’s hard to believe this is a debut book. It’s complex with phenomenal world building and deep character development while also still being romantic and engaging. My favorite character is Neraxys because I love an animal companion! If you love Lore by Alexandria Bracken, Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan, and Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth then this is the story for you. This has everything you would want in a good fantasy, there is sacrifice, a slow burn romance, found family, and a gorgeous mmc! Go grab your copy where books are sold and keep your eye out for the rest of the series!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 stars! ✨
I don't know if you've been following Orin on any social media, but I've been anticipating this book for a WHILE now so when I got the email that I was getting an ARC I just about died.
Let me just start off with, this is not romance focused AND I AM HERE FOR IT. The fantasy is the focus and the world building is absolutely wonderful. You get to live in the world with our absolutely bad ass FMC Islyn because there's a great amount of detail and I love it.
Our FMC and MMC are so well done, I'm so obsessed with them. There is the smallest bit of spice but the yearning is there while not being the focus.
Our side characters are so likeable and also hateable, which is absolutely required in every series. It feels like they are very well developed and you will be crushed if and when they die.
THE ABSOLUTE CLIFF I WAS ALSO PUSHED OFF AT THE END!!
It was absolutely perfect. No notes, chef kiss, all the things.
I don't know if you've been following Orin on any social media, but I've been anticipating this book for a WHILE now so when I got the email that I was getting an ARC I just about died.
Let me just start off with, this is not romance focused AND I AM HERE FOR IT. The fantasy is the focus and the world building is absolutely wonderful. You get to live in the world with our absolutely bad ass FMC Islyn because there's a great amount of detail and I love it.
Our FMC and MMC are so well done, I'm so obsessed with them. There is the smallest bit of spice but the yearning is there while not being the focus.
Our side characters are so likeable and also hateable, which is absolutely required in every series. It feels like they are very well developed and you will be crushed if and when they die.
THE ABSOLUTE CLIFF I WAS ALSO PUSHED OFF AT THE END!!
It was absolutely perfect. No notes, chef kiss, all the things.
Did Not Finish
April 10, 2026Thank you so much to Orin Steele, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC of this book but this has sadly been a dnf for me at 44%. This story has a great premise but the story fell flat for me. Our FMC Islyn felt really juvenile at times and was acting in ways that didn't make sense and felt too trusting too quickly for me. From the start of the book I really couldn't get a grasp of the magic system and how the world is set up and that continued on until I stopped reading the book. I was just confused on what was going on most of the time and it honestly made me frustrated because things weren't adding up to me and some parts felt rushed as well. The attraction between our main characters felt very rushed and developed too quickly for me to feel a genuine bond and connection between the two of them. I felt like in the situation when Islyn noticed that she was attracted to him wasn't really appropriate given the circumstances. It just felt kind of forced to me. The pacing as well was a little disjointed to me because I couldn't get my bearings of how much time had passed. I could tell that time had been passing but there had been no statements of how much time had passed.
Again, thank you so much to Orin and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Again, thank you so much to Orin and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 23, 2026
Orin Steele’s By Blood, Shadow & Fire prologue delivers immediate devastation. No warm-up, no mercy – straight into morally grey decisions and consequences. And chapter one already having you teary? That’s how you know the author truly grasped the assignment.
The worst part is when a book:
- Breaks your heart
- Heals your reading slump
- Raises your standards to unreasonable levels
- Then vanishes leaving you waiting for book two.
This book had it all: sacrifice, romance tension, world-building, betrayal energy and the “I would burn kingdoms for you” vibes.
That post-book emptiness is real. It’s not a slump – it’s grief. You don’t want a book; you want that feeling again.
The worst part is when a book:
- Breaks your heart
- Heals your reading slump
- Raises your standards to unreasonable levels
- Then vanishes leaving you waiting for book two.
This book had it all: sacrifice, romance tension, world-building, betrayal energy and the “I would burn kingdoms for you” vibes.
That post-book emptiness is real. It’s not a slump – it’s grief. You don’t want a book; you want that feeling again.
February 24, 2026
I love the whole storyline! As with many fantasy books the beginning was a bit hectic with all the world building but once I got a feel for the story it was so good!!!! The FMC is 100% a character you’ll be rooting for, and I loved the dynamic with the MMC. I am so excited to see where this series goes, there’s much to come I’m sure of it!
March 23, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley for the e-arc! 🖤
If you're ever looking for books you can count on to blow you away, look no further than Emrae Publishing. CB Woods is an auto-buy, auto-read author for me and Orin's debut novel is no exception.
From page 1, I was hooked. I found the magic system fascinating, rich but not overwhelming. The pacing felt solid. And Islyn is complex—I love characters who have a bite to their personalities and are battling their own darkness.
There are some elements that, if you read fantasy romance enough, you'll pick up on and know what is coming. BUT it doesn't take away from the story at all and you'll want to read to the end.
If you're ever looking for books you can count on to blow you away, look no further than Emrae Publishing. CB Woods is an auto-buy, auto-read author for me and Orin's debut novel is no exception.
From page 1, I was hooked. I found the magic system fascinating, rich but not overwhelming. The pacing felt solid. And Islyn is complex—I love characters who have a bite to their personalities and are battling their own darkness.
There are some elements that, if you read fantasy romance enough, you'll pick up on and know what is coming. BUT it doesn't take away from the story at all and you'll want to read to the end.
February 27, 2026
Okay for starters, I loved every minute of it! The story and writing kept me captivated. I love love love the FMC. She’s strong and such a real representation of anyone going through some shit. I am so incredibly excited that this is a trilogy and to continue the story. Because wow, Orin did not disappoint on the hype. Very appropriately hyped book, highly recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book seeps into you. The lore is dense and the characters are vibrant!
April 12, 2026
I want to sit with this one a bit, but I loved it. If you enjoy slow burn romantic fantasy with epic world building and believable characters - you will too. I’ll be back to update with a full review in a bit...
I'm back! I absolutely DEVOURED this book! It was so well done. I loved the world building and the emotional build up with the characters felt believable - her hesitations felt real. I think anyone who loves celestial magic, gods/mortals, and slow burn romantasies would very much enjoy this book!
I'm back! I absolutely DEVOURED this book! It was so well done. I loved the world building and the emotional build up with the characters felt believable - her hesitations felt real. I think anyone who loves celestial magic, gods/mortals, and slow burn romantasies would very much enjoy this book!
May 1, 2026
The plot pulled me in right away, and the world-building felt super rich, real and immersive without being overwhelming.
The main character is especially compelling❤️strong, driven, and clearly at the center of the story in a way that keeps everything moving forward. It made the journey feel purposeful and engaging from start to finish. I read it in 2 days, could not put it down.
I’m already looking forward to book two and seeing where the story goes next🎊👏
The main character is especially compelling❤️strong, driven, and clearly at the center of the story in a way that keeps everything moving forward. It made the journey feel purposeful and engaging from start to finish. I read it in 2 days, could not put it down.
I’m already looking forward to book two and seeing where the story goes next🎊👏
April 29, 2026
The world-building in Blood, Shadow and Fire completely pulled me in. It is rich, immersive, and layered without ever feeling overwhelming. Every chapter added something new, and I genuinely never knew what was going to happen next (which I love).
It keeps you on edge in the best way, constantly shifting and unfolding just when you think you’ve figured it out.
And that ending… yeah, I need the next book immediately.
April 20, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Orin for the opportunity to read this book before the public!
She’s got power and she’s got rage. Born with magic they want. Her parents hide her away so she’s not taken, never to be seen again.
I love the adventure and action. I love the male interest. I like how there’s dual POV.
I’m excited to see where the characters go and how they will develop.
She’s got power and she’s got rage. Born with magic they want. Her parents hide her away so she’s not taken, never to be seen again.
I love the adventure and action. I love the male interest. I like how there’s dual POV.
I’m excited to see where the characters go and how they will develop.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC of By Blood, Shadow & Fire by Orin Steele, to be published on 28th of April, 2026.
Marked by gods. Hunted by fate. Bound to a warrior she shouldn't want.
It’s a book that hooks you right from the prologue and it’s hard to put down! It’s well written and fast paced, with a strong FMC and a WOLF 🐺 companion, just a perfect combination 🔥 It’s a gripping dark fantasy, with extensive world building and complex characters.
WHAT TO EXPECT
🖤Slow Burn
🖤YEARNING
🖤Guardian x Chosen One
🖤Female Rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Dual POV
🖤Dealing with grief & trauma
🖤 WHAT I LOVED 🖤
“Truth?”
“Always.”
“Do you have any idea what that’s like? To live your whole life in the dark, to be a shadow of yourself and know the world sees you as an either weapon or a curse?”
This book really caught me by surprise. I went in blind, really drawn by the cover and I ended up being absolutely absorbed and obsessed. There were moments where I forgot to breathe. At about 60% all I kept thinking about was how much I cannot wait to read it again.
“We carry the grief in different ways, but it’s always there. It’s an honour to grieve, it means you’ve loved”.
I really love Islyn. She is a strong and smart FMC, grief stricken and dealing with a lot of trauma. She spent her life hiding from her destiny and decided to challenge everything she knows and find out more about her powers and who she really is. She sometimes makes questionable decisions but it’s all a part of her journey to face her fate.
“I am consumed by her. I see her every time I close my eyes. When I am not near her, my bones ache and my spirit weakens. She is my strength, my spirit, my soul.”
The MMC, Ferric, oh how I love a man who YEARNS. A strong warrior, but really soft inside, he cares about his people and about Islyn and he found a way onto my book boyfriend list very quickly 😏 oh, did I mentioned he has wings? 🪽
“I knew all you had to do was ask, and I would have run with you, away from it all. I would burn it down if you asked.”
The tension between FMC and MMC, the yearning, the slow burn…🔥 it’s a romance well done. The scene at the feast… let’s just say I’m obsessed 😏
“Some songs are sung to remember. Others are sung so we do not forget”
The world is immersive and complex, however confusing at times. The writing is beautiful and really vivid, I couldn’t believe this is a debut. I also really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of each chapter giving us glimpses into the history and were part of the world building.
🖤 WHAT DIDN’T WORK AS WELL 🖤
Sometimes I got confused while reading this book, some things weren’t explained properly. I felt like sometimes we teleported somewhere or there was a term or character that got me thinking who’s this or what’s that 🙈 Some of the names and terms were very similar and kept muddling up.
I wish there was a bit more of Neraxys 🐺 and that he went on the journey with the characters 🥺 We also see that Islyn cares deeply about her family however we don’t see much interactions between them.
“I wish I could turn it off - whatever this is. I wish I wasn’t drawn to you, I wish my magic didn’t crave yours.”
We also spend a lot of time reading about FMC and MMC wondering if they should be together or not. Not as I minded that, but the romance plays bigger part in this book than it is being advertised by the author. I wouldn’t necessarily class it as epic fantasy, it’s a VERY good Romantasy.
🖤 FINAL THOUGHS 🖤
I think it’s a phenomenal debut and the trilogy has so much potential! I absolutely CANNOT wait for the next book and see where the story goes and how the world will develop especially after the Prologue AND the ending 😭 Thank you for letting me read it early 🥺🖤
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC of By Blood, Shadow & Fire by Orin Steele, to be published on 28th of April, 2026.
Marked by gods. Hunted by fate. Bound to a warrior she shouldn't want.
It’s a book that hooks you right from the prologue and it’s hard to put down! It’s well written and fast paced, with a strong FMC and a WOLF 🐺 companion, just a perfect combination 🔥 It’s a gripping dark fantasy, with extensive world building and complex characters.
WHAT TO EXPECT
🖤Slow Burn
🖤YEARNING
🖤Guardian x Chosen One
🖤Female Rage
🖤Forced Proximity
🖤Dual POV
🖤Dealing with grief & trauma
🖤 WHAT I LOVED 🖤
“Truth?”
“Always.”
“Do you have any idea what that’s like? To live your whole life in the dark, to be a shadow of yourself and know the world sees you as an either weapon or a curse?”
This book really caught me by surprise. I went in blind, really drawn by the cover and I ended up being absolutely absorbed and obsessed. There were moments where I forgot to breathe. At about 60% all I kept thinking about was how much I cannot wait to read it again.
“We carry the grief in different ways, but it’s always there. It’s an honour to grieve, it means you’ve loved”.
I really love Islyn. She is a strong and smart FMC, grief stricken and dealing with a lot of trauma. She spent her life hiding from her destiny and decided to challenge everything she knows and find out more about her powers and who she really is. She sometimes makes questionable decisions but it’s all a part of her journey to face her fate.
“I am consumed by her. I see her every time I close my eyes. When I am not near her, my bones ache and my spirit weakens. She is my strength, my spirit, my soul.”
The MMC, Ferric, oh how I love a man who YEARNS. A strong warrior, but really soft inside, he cares about his people and about Islyn and he found a way onto my book boyfriend list very quickly 😏 oh, did I mentioned he has wings? 🪽
“I knew all you had to do was ask, and I would have run with you, away from it all. I would burn it down if you asked.”
The tension between FMC and MMC, the yearning, the slow burn…🔥 it’s a romance well done. The scene at the feast… let’s just say I’m obsessed 😏
“Some songs are sung to remember. Others are sung so we do not forget”
The world is immersive and complex, however confusing at times. The writing is beautiful and really vivid, I couldn’t believe this is a debut. I also really enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of each chapter giving us glimpses into the history and were part of the world building.
🖤 WHAT DIDN’T WORK AS WELL 🖤
Sometimes I got confused while reading this book, some things weren’t explained properly. I felt like sometimes we teleported somewhere or there was a term or character that got me thinking who’s this or what’s that 🙈 Some of the names and terms were very similar and kept muddling up.
I wish there was a bit more of Neraxys 🐺 and that he went on the journey with the characters 🥺 We also see that Islyn cares deeply about her family however we don’t see much interactions between them.
“I wish I could turn it off - whatever this is. I wish I wasn’t drawn to you, I wish my magic didn’t crave yours.”
We also spend a lot of time reading about FMC and MMC wondering if they should be together or not. Not as I minded that, but the romance plays bigger part in this book than it is being advertised by the author. I wouldn’t necessarily class it as epic fantasy, it’s a VERY good Romantasy.
🖤 FINAL THOUGHS 🖤
I think it’s a phenomenal debut and the trilogy has so much potential! I absolutely CANNOT wait for the next book and see where the story goes and how the world will develop especially after the Prologue AND the ending 😭 Thank you for letting me read it early 🥺🖤
May 6, 2026
"𝙆𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙡𝙚𝙙𝙜𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙥𝙤𝙣, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙨𝙤 𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙡𝙚.”
By Blood, Shadow & Fire by Orin Steele
4.5☆
This is one of those debuts that shows up, unassuming, and then possesses 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭.
This story is a living, breathing world, layered with gods, grief, power, and the kind of yearning that BREAKS your heart even after you finish the book.
The prose is lush, immersive, and all together dangerous. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—this book DRIPS with POWER and you can FEEL it in your fingertips while you read it.
Islyn, a girl shaped by trauma, fear, has a destiny she never asked for. Chosen by two gods (because apparently one wasn’t enough), she’s spent her life hiding from what she is, and now has to decide who she’s going to become. Her journey is heavy with grief, guilt, and a sharp edge of feminine rage that makes you want to both hug her and hand her a sword.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙚. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙠. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡, 𝙣𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠, 𝙣𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣.
And then there’s Ferric. Guardian. Grounded. Quietly devastating. He’s tasked with protecting her, guiding her on a quest that could save their kind, all the while knowing she was never meant to be his.
"𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙄𝙨𝙡𝙮𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚—𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚."
But let’s be honest, the real tension is in the way he still chooses her. Their connection is slow burn perfection (and I mean SLOW), all restrained emotion and forbidden love energy simmering just beneath the surface. The emotions are freaking relentless. Grief. Survival. Destiny. Choice. You’ll feel starved and fed all at the same time.
"𝙄𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙡𝙚𝙛𝙩 𝙪𝙣𝙛𝙚𝙙, 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣."
The magic system is so uniquely refreshing. Gods gifting mortals at birth, each power unique, each side fighting for power over the other. Add in shifting alliances, political tension, and a plot that weaves past, present, and future together, and you’ve got a story that keeps you guessing constantly.
The ending is CRIMINAL with hell breaking loose (almost literally) and I am not okay. You’re left with a major cliffhanger but also a banger of a line from Islyn that gets you ALL fired up for book two. Emotional devastation with a side of “I will be screaming until the next book exists.”
✨ Chosen-by-the-gods heroine with everything to lose ✨ Guardian x chosen one SLOW burn ✨ Lush world-building + layered mythology ✨ Trauma, power, and rising from the ashes energy
This isn’t just a read, it’s an 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦. The kind that crawls under your skin and stays there. I’ll be thinking about that ending for a long, long time… and demanding book two like it’s oxygen.
*Thank you to Orin Steele for this arc opportunity.
By Blood, Shadow & Fire by Orin Steele
4.5☆
This is one of those debuts that shows up, unassuming, and then possesses 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭.
This story is a living, breathing world, layered with gods, grief, power, and the kind of yearning that BREAKS your heart even after you finish the book.
The prose is lush, immersive, and all together dangerous. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—this book DRIPS with POWER and you can FEEL it in your fingertips while you read it.
Islyn, a girl shaped by trauma, fear, has a destiny she never asked for. Chosen by two gods (because apparently one wasn’t enough), she’s spent her life hiding from what she is, and now has to decide who she’s going to become. Her journey is heavy with grief, guilt, and a sharp edge of feminine rage that makes you want to both hug her and hand her a sword.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙩. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙚. 𝙃𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙠. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙡𝙡, 𝙣𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠, 𝙣𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙𝙣'𝙩 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣.
And then there’s Ferric. Guardian. Grounded. Quietly devastating. He’s tasked with protecting her, guiding her on a quest that could save their kind, all the while knowing she was never meant to be his.
"𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙄𝙨𝙡𝙮𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚—𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚."
But let’s be honest, the real tension is in the way he still chooses her. Their connection is slow burn perfection (and I mean SLOW), all restrained emotion and forbidden love energy simmering just beneath the surface. The emotions are freaking relentless. Grief. Survival. Destiny. Choice. You’ll feel starved and fed all at the same time.
"𝙄𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙧. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙡𝙚𝙛𝙩 𝙪𝙣𝙛𝙚𝙙, 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙨 𝙖 𝙜𝙤𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣."
The magic system is so uniquely refreshing. Gods gifting mortals at birth, each power unique, each side fighting for power over the other. Add in shifting alliances, political tension, and a plot that weaves past, present, and future together, and you’ve got a story that keeps you guessing constantly.
The ending is CRIMINAL with hell breaking loose (almost literally) and I am not okay. You’re left with a major cliffhanger but also a banger of a line from Islyn that gets you ALL fired up for book two. Emotional devastation with a side of “I will be screaming until the next book exists.”
✨ Chosen-by-the-gods heroine with everything to lose ✨ Guardian x chosen one SLOW burn ✨ Lush world-building + layered mythology ✨ Trauma, power, and rising from the ashes energy
This isn’t just a read, it’s an 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦. The kind that crawls under your skin and stays there. I’ll be thinking about that ending for a long, long time… and demanding book two like it’s oxygen.
*Thank you to Orin Steele for this arc opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"She placed her palm against his, allowing him to pull her forward. Her magic sang to his, calling like a melody he had always known, threading through his veins. It felt like home. And then it felt like fire, deep within.”
By Blood, Shadow, and Fire is the first book in an epic fantasy/romance series by debut author Orin Steele. Steele jumps in with expansive worldbuilding and creates a world where the gods hold power and worship is expected of the human subjects. Depending on where you’re from, those marked by the gods are seen as a threat to the power structure and face dire consequences. In a world where power is feared as much as it is revered, Islyn comes out of hiding to fight the wrongs of a corrupt system holding its people captive.
The narrative occupies a complicated space between epic fantasy and high-stakes romance. While the novel is positioned as a fantasy-first story with romance as a subplot, the connection between Islyn and Ferric often feels central to the narrative’s momentum, especially with the introduction of prophecy and fate elements. Readers who enjoy romantasy will find this shift engaging, though it may feel at odds with the book’s stated intention. It will be interesting to see if future books pivot back toward the larger political and war-driven goals promised by the world-building. I found myself wanting more space for Islyn’s arc to develop independently from her male counterpart’s role in the narrative. Steele has a clear talent for building palpable tension between FMC and MMC, creating moments of genuine connection and tension that romance readers will likely enjoy.
Also worthy of mention, Islyn’s transition from devout believer to revolutionary felt slightly rushed in its execution. While her grief for her family is heavy, the lack of “spiritual mourning”—the gutting self-doubt that usually accompanies leaving a lifelong faith system—makes that part of her story feel more like a narrative function than a fully explored aspect of her identity.
This book is a bright beginning for a debut fantasy series with immense potential. There are key notes of battling fate and corrupt gods, fighting for agency and self-expression, slow burn/enemies to lovers tension, the struggle between duty and desire, and the painful process of self-discovery in light of learning hidden truths. And I look forward to seeing how Islyn’s agency grows as the series continues.
Thank you to Emrae Publishing and Orin Steele for early access to read and review this book!
By Blood, Shadow, and Fire is the first book in an epic fantasy/romance series by debut author Orin Steele. Steele jumps in with expansive worldbuilding and creates a world where the gods hold power and worship is expected of the human subjects. Depending on where you’re from, those marked by the gods are seen as a threat to the power structure and face dire consequences. In a world where power is feared as much as it is revered, Islyn comes out of hiding to fight the wrongs of a corrupt system holding its people captive.
The narrative occupies a complicated space between epic fantasy and high-stakes romance. While the novel is positioned as a fantasy-first story with romance as a subplot, the connection between Islyn and Ferric often feels central to the narrative’s momentum, especially with the introduction of prophecy and fate elements. Readers who enjoy romantasy will find this shift engaging, though it may feel at odds with the book’s stated intention. It will be interesting to see if future books pivot back toward the larger political and war-driven goals promised by the world-building. I found myself wanting more space for Islyn’s arc to develop independently from her male counterpart’s role in the narrative. Steele has a clear talent for building palpable tension between FMC and MMC, creating moments of genuine connection and tension that romance readers will likely enjoy.
Also worthy of mention, Islyn’s transition from devout believer to revolutionary felt slightly rushed in its execution. While her grief for her family is heavy, the lack of “spiritual mourning”—the gutting self-doubt that usually accompanies leaving a lifelong faith system—makes that part of her story feel more like a narrative function than a fully explored aspect of her identity.
This book is a bright beginning for a debut fantasy series with immense potential. There are key notes of battling fate and corrupt gods, fighting for agency and self-expression, slow burn/enemies to lovers tension, the struggle between duty and desire, and the painful process of self-discovery in light of learning hidden truths. And I look forward to seeing how Islyn’s agency grows as the series continues.
Thank you to Emrae Publishing and Orin Steele for early access to read and review this book!
February 21, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC of By Blood, Shadow and Fire.
This is a debut with an excellent premise and some genuinely compelling ideas, but for me the execution never quite matched the promise of the setup.
The opening introduces an intriguing world: gods who rule separate realms, a looming war that threatens existence itself, and a heroine marked at birth and hidden from divine ascension. The mythology and magic system have real potential, and whenever the story focuses on survival, pursuit, or the consequences of power, the book becomes far more engaging.
Unfortunately, much of the novel shifts its attention toward the developing romance between Islyn and Ferric, and that relationship never felt emotionally earned. Ferric is presented as a centuries-old general fighting a world-changing conflict, yet much of his characterization revolves around immediate romantic fixation rather than the weight of command or the stakes surrounding him. Likewise, Islyn often reads far younger than her twenty-four years, reacting impulsively and avoiding questions or conversations that should fundamentally reshape her understanding of herself and her past.
Because of this, many important moments land without the emotional impact they seem designed to carry. Revelations about prophecy, family history, and the coming war arrive without urgency, and long stretches of the middle feel disconnected from the catastrophic stakes repeatedly described by the narrative.
Ironically, the strongest sections arrive late in the book. Once the story shifts into pursuit and survival, both characters begin to feel sharper and more believable. The tension finally rises, the danger feels real, and the magic system becomes far more compelling. Unfortunately, by that point much of the emotional investment the story needed earlier had already been lost for me.
There is clearly a strong foundation here — an interesting mythology, flashes of effective action, and a finale that hints at a more focused sequel. Readers who enjoy romantasy driven primarily by atmosphere and emotional longing may connect with it more than I did. For me, however, too many character motivations and emotional beats felt unearned, leaving a story that had all the pieces for something powerful but never quite came together.
This is a debut with an excellent premise and some genuinely compelling ideas, but for me the execution never quite matched the promise of the setup.
The opening introduces an intriguing world: gods who rule separate realms, a looming war that threatens existence itself, and a heroine marked at birth and hidden from divine ascension. The mythology and magic system have real potential, and whenever the story focuses on survival, pursuit, or the consequences of power, the book becomes far more engaging.
Unfortunately, much of the novel shifts its attention toward the developing romance between Islyn and Ferric, and that relationship never felt emotionally earned. Ferric is presented as a centuries-old general fighting a world-changing conflict, yet much of his characterization revolves around immediate romantic fixation rather than the weight of command or the stakes surrounding him. Likewise, Islyn often reads far younger than her twenty-four years, reacting impulsively and avoiding questions or conversations that should fundamentally reshape her understanding of herself and her past.
Because of this, many important moments land without the emotional impact they seem designed to carry. Revelations about prophecy, family history, and the coming war arrive without urgency, and long stretches of the middle feel disconnected from the catastrophic stakes repeatedly described by the narrative.
Ironically, the strongest sections arrive late in the book. Once the story shifts into pursuit and survival, both characters begin to feel sharper and more believable. The tension finally rises, the danger feels real, and the magic system becomes far more compelling. Unfortunately, by that point much of the emotional investment the story needed earlier had already been lost for me.
There is clearly a strong foundation here — an interesting mythology, flashes of effective action, and a finale that hints at a more focused sequel. Readers who enjoy romantasy driven primarily by atmosphere and emotional longing may connect with it more than I did. For me, however, too many character motivations and emotional beats felt unearned, leaving a story that had all the pieces for something powerful but never quite came together.
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