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Resonance
I did two things I can't take I raised my cat from the dead, and I killed the boy who saw me do it.
Necromancy is forbidden. Erased from history. The kind of magic that gets you hunted by the Academy's best, Elite Soulren who've spent decades killing anything that threatens their power.
Falcen Reaves finds me, anyway.
He's cursed, ruthless, and supposed to drag me to the Academy to be broken or destroyed like every other late awakener before me.
Instead, he keeps me alive. Trains me. Watches me with a cruelty that feels like hunger.
Because my power isn't normal. There's something inside me, ancient, violent, and growing stronger every time I consume a soul.
It recognizes him. His curse. The darkness he's drowning in.
And gods help me, I want him despite it all.
Every training session becomes more dangerous. His control is slipping. So is mine. We're bound by a curse neither of us understands, a pull between souls that shouldn't exist, and a hunger that matches violence for violence.
He's my captor. My teacher. The only person who knows what I am.
And the bond between us might kill us both.
Resonance is a dark romantasy drenched in soul-magic, deadly trials, and a love forged in blood and Void. Perfect for fans of morally gray heroes and heroines who refuse to be broken.
TROPESMorally Grey MMC
Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul).
Captor/Captive
Bad Boy/Good Girl
Black Cat Heroine
Boy Falls First
Close Proximity
Fated Mates
Dark Academia
Grumpy/Sunshine
Guarded Hearts
Loathe to Love
Guardian Ward
Kidnapped
Power Imbalance
Necromancy is forbidden. Erased from history. The kind of magic that gets you hunted by the Academy's best, Elite Soulren who've spent decades killing anything that threatens their power.
Falcen Reaves finds me, anyway.
He's cursed, ruthless, and supposed to drag me to the Academy to be broken or destroyed like every other late awakener before me.
Instead, he keeps me alive. Trains me. Watches me with a cruelty that feels like hunger.
Because my power isn't normal. There's something inside me, ancient, violent, and growing stronger every time I consume a soul.
It recognizes him. His curse. The darkness he's drowning in.
And gods help me, I want him despite it all.
Every training session becomes more dangerous. His control is slipping. So is mine. We're bound by a curse neither of us understands, a pull between souls that shouldn't exist, and a hunger that matches violence for violence.
He's my captor. My teacher. The only person who knows what I am.
And the bond between us might kill us both.
Resonance is a dark romantasy drenched in soul-magic, deadly trials, and a love forged in blood and Void. Perfect for fans of morally gray heroes and heroines who refuse to be broken.
TROPESMorally Grey MMC
Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul).
Captor/Captive
Bad Boy/Good Girl
Black Cat Heroine
Boy Falls First
Close Proximity
Fated Mates
Dark Academia
Grumpy/Sunshine
Guarded Hearts
Loathe to Love
Guardian Ward
Kidnapped
Power Imbalance
558 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2026
About the author
Ketley Allison
94 books923 followersAuthor of Romantic Suspense, New Adult, and mature YA.
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Check out my Amazon Author page!
http://amazon.com/author/ketleyallison
Visit me on Facebook!
https://www.facebook.com/ketleyallison
Visit my website!
https://www.ketleyallison.com
Follow me on Instagram!
https://www.instagram.com/ketleyallison
@ketleyallison
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
April 24, 2026
Resonance by Ketley Allison
4/5 stars
Resonance is a beautiful new series by Ketley Allison and I truly enjoyed reading this beauty of a book.
The book starts really heartbreakingly. I am a huge cat person myself and when we meet Verily she is crying at her cat's grave. Noxie just died and he was the last thing she had left of her mother. Suddenly a blue light flies out of her hands and she is bringing Noxie back to life. For a few moments he resurrects, but it is not her beloved animal. He doesn't purr, he is soulless and moments later he dies.
Edon from the village saw what happened and whispers your are a Soulren. He wants to turn on his heels and tell the leaders of the village what she is. But Verily cannot let that happen and suddenly a voice within starts to speak and she sucks the soul out of Edon and kills him.
She knows she cannot return and she starts to run. The village people chase after her. After she has expelled all her energy she takes a moment to stop and breathe. The second she stops, void hounds chase after her and suddenly a man jumps in and saves her.
That man is Falcen Reaves and he is an Elite Render of the Resonance Academy. He knows what she is and he wants to bring her back to the academy. Verily doesn't want to go, her grandmother told her horrifying stories about the academy, but she has no choice and her entire life is about to change.
Verily has incredible powers, but she is untrained and uses her powers when her emotions take over. Or when the voice inside of her, her ember, talks to her. She does things that bring them both in terrible danger. And when she thinks she helps Falcen, she only increases something that shouldn't be increased.
This book is a captivating tale of two people who are tied together, who are drawn to one another and who see each other. It's about the dangers of the Academy. Of the people who are in charge and the students who have nefarious reasons to work against them.
But the heart of the book is the bond between Verily and Falcen and how far they are willing to go to protect someone they just met. Can they trust one another? And what are the consequences of one another's actions?
This really is an addictive read and I am so glad I read it. But the only thing that bothered me a tiny bit is that his book has a lot of overlap with both the Empyrean series by Rececca Yarros and The Plated Prisoner series by Raven Kennedy. In a way it is unique and fresh. But a lot of basic elements reminded me a lot of those two series. So it didn't feel fully original. It's not like a copy paste thing. But more that vital elements from both series play a part in this series as well.
So that is why I am giving this one 4 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong. It's still a fantastic book and worth the read.
I loved this wild journey and it does end on a cliffhanger. So I am dying to know what happens in the sequel!
4/5 stars
Resonance is a beautiful new series by Ketley Allison and I truly enjoyed reading this beauty of a book.
The book starts really heartbreakingly. I am a huge cat person myself and when we meet Verily she is crying at her cat's grave. Noxie just died and he was the last thing she had left of her mother. Suddenly a blue light flies out of her hands and she is bringing Noxie back to life. For a few moments he resurrects, but it is not her beloved animal. He doesn't purr, he is soulless and moments later he dies.
Edon from the village saw what happened and whispers your are a Soulren. He wants to turn on his heels and tell the leaders of the village what she is. But Verily cannot let that happen and suddenly a voice within starts to speak and she sucks the soul out of Edon and kills him.
She knows she cannot return and she starts to run. The village people chase after her. After she has expelled all her energy she takes a moment to stop and breathe. The second she stops, void hounds chase after her and suddenly a man jumps in and saves her.
That man is Falcen Reaves and he is an Elite Render of the Resonance Academy. He knows what she is and he wants to bring her back to the academy. Verily doesn't want to go, her grandmother told her horrifying stories about the academy, but she has no choice and her entire life is about to change.
Verily has incredible powers, but she is untrained and uses her powers when her emotions take over. Or when the voice inside of her, her ember, talks to her. She does things that bring them both in terrible danger. And when she thinks she helps Falcen, she only increases something that shouldn't be increased.
This book is a captivating tale of two people who are tied together, who are drawn to one another and who see each other. It's about the dangers of the Academy. Of the people who are in charge and the students who have nefarious reasons to work against them.
But the heart of the book is the bond between Verily and Falcen and how far they are willing to go to protect someone they just met. Can they trust one another? And what are the consequences of one another's actions?
This really is an addictive read and I am so glad I read it. But the only thing that bothered me a tiny bit is that his book has a lot of overlap with both the Empyrean series by Rececca Yarros and The Plated Prisoner series by Raven Kennedy. In a way it is unique and fresh. But a lot of basic elements reminded me a lot of those two series. So it didn't feel fully original. It's not like a copy paste thing. But more that vital elements from both series play a part in this series as well.
So that is why I am giving this one 4 out of 5 stars. Don't get me wrong. It's still a fantastic book and worth the read.
I loved this wild journey and it does end on a cliffhanger. So I am dying to know what happens in the sequel!
May 14, 2026
★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆
This book is actually really interesting and good. Once again, the problem is me I fear I didn’t give this book the chance it deserved.
While reading this I read and did so many other things that I lost interest. The beginning was sooo good but as soon as we hit the academy it got too messy.
Also, I don’t think this fmc belongs in a world like that, dark and full of corruption and death. Honestly she acts stupid and is too naive. At some point we have to get a character development, right?
༶•┈┈୨♡୧┈┈•༶
Coming out April 23
I just found this author and I love her books. And this sounds amazing!!
This book is actually really interesting and good. Once again, the problem is me I fear I didn’t give this book the chance it deserved.
While reading this I read and did so many other things that I lost interest. The beginning was sooo good but as soon as we hit the academy it got too messy.
Also, I don’t think this fmc belongs in a world like that, dark and full of corruption and death. Honestly she acts stupid and is too naive. At some point we have to get a character development, right?
༶•┈┈୨♡୧┈┈•༶
Coming out April 23
I just found this author and I love her books. And this sounds amazing!!
April 22, 2026
just a warning, the cliffhanger in this book had me COMPLETELY DEAD INSIDE. This book totally altered my brain chemistry, I don’t even know how I’m gonna make it to tomorrow without either rereading this or reading the second book (which isn’t out yet), so obsessing over this book like it’s my new personality is exactly what I shall do. Because that cliffhanger was just PURE EVIL, I’m sobbing, like full blown puffy red eyes and snot everywhere kind of meltdown. Because I didn’t even realise it, but the soulrens in this book actually captured my entire heart and soul.
Let’s break this down and start with plot, it was full of intense emotional scenes, lots of angst from the get-go, but also a lot of violence, fighting and all kinds of cool magicky dark romantasy things, such as drakes (dragons) that talk to your soul, and horrible transformation experiments going on in an underground basement of a school. This book was filled from top to bottom with plot twists, each one more insane than the next, making me literally grasp the edge of my couch because the tension was driving me up the wall. And oh my goodness the FORCED PROXIMITY!!! And the way he kept on protecting her, was truly so swoon worthy.
I loved how our fmc was not your usual “chosen one” fmc, yes she’s reckless with the absurdly powerful magic she gets but she’s also so chaotic, funny and just a down right mood (cause the way she was soo relatable had me loving her from the start). But girlie was soo oblivious, like Falcen was obviously whipped from the start (through he does do a bit of a hot and cold thing), and is the literal definition of touch her and die. To me this book felt very like One Dark Window but a little spicer and with hot Soul eater demon/human/monster things. Absolutely everyone needs to read this utter masterpiece of a book, and I give this a 5/5
Let’s break this down and start with plot, it was full of intense emotional scenes, lots of angst from the get-go, but also a lot of violence, fighting and all kinds of cool magicky dark romantasy things, such as drakes (dragons) that talk to your soul, and horrible transformation experiments going on in an underground basement of a school. This book was filled from top to bottom with plot twists, each one more insane than the next, making me literally grasp the edge of my couch because the tension was driving me up the wall. And oh my goodness the FORCED PROXIMITY!!! And the way he kept on protecting her, was truly so swoon worthy.
I loved how our fmc was not your usual “chosen one” fmc, yes she’s reckless with the absurdly powerful magic she gets but she’s also so chaotic, funny and just a down right mood (cause the way she was soo relatable had me loving her from the start). But girlie was soo oblivious, like Falcen was obviously whipped from the start (through he does do a bit of a hot and cold thing), and is the literal definition of touch her and die. To me this book felt very like One Dark Window but a little spicer and with hot Soul eater demon/human/monster things. Absolutely everyone needs to read this utter masterpiece of a book, and I give this a 5/5
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April 23, 2026Resonance is a dark romantasy drenched in soul-magic, deadly trials, and a love forged in blood and Void. Perfect for fans of morally gray heroes and heroines who refuse to be broken.
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
May 6, 2026
I went into this thinking I was getting a moody little dark academia read with some necromancy sprinkled in… and instead this book grabbed me and did not let go. I was fully unwell in the best way.
The opening was IMMEDIATELY chaotic. Girl brings her cat back from the dead and her life just completely and utterly unravels. I was locked in from that moment. The magic in this feels eerie and alive and a little bit wrong, especially with the whole soul consuming aspect, and I LOVED that vibe. It’s dark without being confusing, which is not easy to pull off. Falcen Reaves… man oh man… I fear I am down bad. He’s all control and restraint and quiet intensity, like everything he feels is sitting just under the surface waiting to snap. He says two words and suddenly the entire scene feels heavier. And when that control slips even a little?? Yeah I was gone. Verily was such a win for me too. She’s powerful but not in an effortless way. She struggles, she spirals a bit, she’s figuring things out while everything around her is actively trying to ruin her life. It felt real and I stayed invested in her the entire time. Their dynamic is what really carried everything. Forced proximity, reluctant trust, that constant push and pull… it’s tense in every single interaction. It just sits there under the surface like something is about to break at any moment and I was eating it up.
Also this book does not hold your hand. It throws you into the chaos and expects you to keep up, and honestly… I loved that. It made everything feel more intense and immersive instead of over-explained. And that ending… actually so rude. I just sat there staring at the page like okay cool, I guess I live here now until the next book comes out because I need answers immediately 😭✨
The opening was IMMEDIATELY chaotic. Girl brings her cat back from the dead and her life just completely and utterly unravels. I was locked in from that moment. The magic in this feels eerie and alive and a little bit wrong, especially with the whole soul consuming aspect, and I LOVED that vibe. It’s dark without being confusing, which is not easy to pull off. Falcen Reaves… man oh man… I fear I am down bad. He’s all control and restraint and quiet intensity, like everything he feels is sitting just under the surface waiting to snap. He says two words and suddenly the entire scene feels heavier. And when that control slips even a little?? Yeah I was gone. Verily was such a win for me too. She’s powerful but not in an effortless way. She struggles, she spirals a bit, she’s figuring things out while everything around her is actively trying to ruin her life. It felt real and I stayed invested in her the entire time. Their dynamic is what really carried everything. Forced proximity, reluctant trust, that constant push and pull… it’s tense in every single interaction. It just sits there under the surface like something is about to break at any moment and I was eating it up.
Also this book does not hold your hand. It throws you into the chaos and expects you to keep up, and honestly… I loved that. It made everything feel more intense and immersive instead of over-explained. And that ending… actually so rude. I just sat there staring at the page like okay cool, I guess I live here now until the next book comes out because I need answers immediately 😭✨
April 23, 2026
Thank you to Valentine PR for the ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
When power binds two souls together
From the very first pages, 'Resonance' by Ketley Allison draws the reader into a world where power is never quiet and danger lingers beneath every interaction. The story unfolds with a steady rhythm, gradually revealing a layered world filled with secrets, tension, and forces that refuse to be controlled.
What truly makes this story stand out is the connection between Verily and Falcen. Their relationship feels strikingly real, shaped by hesitation, mistrust, and moments of vulnerability that make their bond believable. Nothing about their dynamic feels rushed or forced. Instead, it develops naturally as circumstances push them closer together, allowing emotions to grow beneath the surface before fully revealing themselves.
The structure of the story allows the world and its dangers to unfold piece by piece. Trials, shifting loyalties, and dangerous power dynamics create an atmosphere filled with unease and anticipation. The pacing gives space for both the worldbuilding and the emotional development between Verily and Falcen, making each new revelation feel earned rather than sudden.
The darker elements woven throughout the narrative add intensity without overshadowing the emotional core. The romance strengthens the tension rather than softening it, making the stakes feel deeply personal. As the story progresses, the sense grows that every choice matters and that consequences are never far behind.
'Resonance' delivers a compelling blend of tension, emotion, and rising danger, leaving behind the lingering feeling that this journey has only just begun, and that the bond between Verily and Falcen will continue to echo long after the final page has been turned.
Morally grey MMC | Grumpy x Sunshine | Fated Mates | Enemies to Lovers | Forced Proximity | Dark Academia | Captor/Captive | Forbidden Bond | Touch Her and Die | Deadly Trials | Power Imbalance | Boy Falls First
When power binds two souls together
From the very first pages, 'Resonance' by Ketley Allison draws the reader into a world where power is never quiet and danger lingers beneath every interaction. The story unfolds with a steady rhythm, gradually revealing a layered world filled with secrets, tension, and forces that refuse to be controlled.
What truly makes this story stand out is the connection between Verily and Falcen. Their relationship feels strikingly real, shaped by hesitation, mistrust, and moments of vulnerability that make their bond believable. Nothing about their dynamic feels rushed or forced. Instead, it develops naturally as circumstances push them closer together, allowing emotions to grow beneath the surface before fully revealing themselves.
The structure of the story allows the world and its dangers to unfold piece by piece. Trials, shifting loyalties, and dangerous power dynamics create an atmosphere filled with unease and anticipation. The pacing gives space for both the worldbuilding and the emotional development between Verily and Falcen, making each new revelation feel earned rather than sudden.
The darker elements woven throughout the narrative add intensity without overshadowing the emotional core. The romance strengthens the tension rather than softening it, making the stakes feel deeply personal. As the story progresses, the sense grows that every choice matters and that consequences are never far behind.
'Resonance' delivers a compelling blend of tension, emotion, and rising danger, leaving behind the lingering feeling that this journey has only just begun, and that the bond between Verily and Falcen will continue to echo long after the final page has been turned.
Morally grey MMC | Grumpy x Sunshine | Fated Mates | Enemies to Lovers | Forced Proximity | Dark Academia | Captor/Captive | Forbidden Bond | Touch Her and Die | Deadly Trials | Power Imbalance | Boy Falls First
May 10, 2026
ARC review
LISTEN
I was genuinely enjoying this but the ending really lost me. I’m confused and I want answers but at the same time I feel as though the story just ends badly and there isn’t a next part?
I’m unsure as to weather I’ll be reading the next book in the series because I don’t know if I care enough and that saddens me because I really was invested in the story and the plot😵💫
It also took me a bit to get into the story so 🤠
LISTEN
I was genuinely enjoying this but the ending really lost me. I’m confused and I want answers but at the same time I feel as though the story just ends badly and there isn’t a next part?
I’m unsure as to weather I’ll be reading the next book in the series because I don’t know if I care enough and that saddens me because I really was invested in the story and the plot😵💫
It also took me a bit to get into the story so 🤠
April 23, 2026
Besties, I am going to need you to sit down while I go through this one with you, cause this one is dark. And it’s going to make you feel things.
I honestly don’t even know where to begin with this one.
This is not a happy fairytale. This is not the one where the prince saves the princess from the monster, and they live happily ever after. No this is the one where…
Girl meets monster…
Monster kidnaps girl…
Girl and monster finally fall for one another…
and then the author proceeds to rip your heart out with the most jaw dropping, agonizing, fist shaking of a cliffhanger you’ve ever read.
There are dragons though…
The love story between the FMC and MMC is raw, desperate, and doomed from the start. He is everything she has hated for so long. Yet, she needs him desperately. She’s his everything but the more he gives in, the more he looses control of the decay he has contained for so long.
This book is dark and for the reader who wants real and messy. This book is not kind. It is gritty. It is visceral. The author has painted this gorgeously dystopian gothic world with decaying monsters hiding in hungry dark. Magic is the power to survive in this world, but it comes at cost of your soul. Love is weakness, no one can be trusted, and betrayal is just a matter of time.
If you enjoy…
⚜️ Captive/Captor
⚜️ Magical Academies
⚜️ Forced Proximity
⚜️ Loathe to Love
⚜️ Touch Her and Die
This book is for you!!!
Rating: ⭐️ 3.5/5 | 🌶️3/5
A huge thank you to Author Ketley Allison and ValentinePR for early access. I cannot wait to see what comes next!
I honestly don’t even know where to begin with this one.
This is not a happy fairytale. This is not the one where the prince saves the princess from the monster, and they live happily ever after. No this is the one where…
Girl meets monster…
Monster kidnaps girl…
Girl and monster finally fall for one another…
and then the author proceeds to rip your heart out with the most jaw dropping, agonizing, fist shaking of a cliffhanger you’ve ever read.
There are dragons though…
The love story between the FMC and MMC is raw, desperate, and doomed from the start. He is everything she has hated for so long. Yet, she needs him desperately. She’s his everything but the more he gives in, the more he looses control of the decay he has contained for so long.
This book is dark and for the reader who wants real and messy. This book is not kind. It is gritty. It is visceral. The author has painted this gorgeously dystopian gothic world with decaying monsters hiding in hungry dark. Magic is the power to survive in this world, but it comes at cost of your soul. Love is weakness, no one can be trusted, and betrayal is just a matter of time.
If you enjoy…
⚜️ Captive/Captor
⚜️ Magical Academies
⚜️ Forced Proximity
⚜️ Loathe to Love
⚜️ Touch Her and Die
This book is for you!!!
Rating: ⭐️ 3.5/5 | 🌶️3/5
A huge thank you to Author Ketley Allison and ValentinePR for early access. I cannot wait to see what comes next!
April 16, 2026
My. Jaw. Is. On. The. Floor.
My mind is reeling. This book was a whirlwind of emotions. There was not a single point in this book where I knew what was going to happen. I was blindsided every single time. My heart aches. I needed book 2 yesterday. This must be fixed. It must. My baby 😭
This book hold everything I love:
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Deadly academy
🖤 Morally grey hero
🖤 Touch her and 💀
🖤 One bed
🖤 Forced proximity
And so much more.
There are so many plot twists and secrets in this book. So many parts where you feel so confused and lost. There were so many parts where I felt sick to my stomach, parts where I grieved, parts that I LOVED.
Verily accidentally resurrects her dead cat with magick she didn’t know she had. She flees because she knows she will be sent to the academy for developing magick. Only to end up in Falcons hands. They begin a whole journey to the academy where they are truly put to the test, and where we feel so extremely confused. Well they make it to the academy just for us to be left with more question. The academy is filled so many secrets, Verily and Falcons lives are on the line but they both hold secrets of their own.
The ending is what truly took me out. My heart broke and was not fixed. I will now be impatiently waiting for book 2 like my life depends on it. Oh also, this book will now become my new personality.
My mind is reeling. This book was a whirlwind of emotions. There was not a single point in this book where I knew what was going to happen. I was blindsided every single time. My heart aches. I needed book 2 yesterday. This must be fixed. It must. My baby 😭
This book hold everything I love:
🖤 Enemies to Lovers
🖤 Deadly academy
🖤 Morally grey hero
🖤 Touch her and 💀
🖤 One bed
🖤 Forced proximity
And so much more.
There are so many plot twists and secrets in this book. So many parts where you feel so confused and lost. There were so many parts where I felt sick to my stomach, parts where I grieved, parts that I LOVED.
Verily accidentally resurrects her dead cat with magick she didn’t know she had. She flees because she knows she will be sent to the academy for developing magick. Only to end up in Falcons hands. They begin a whole journey to the academy where they are truly put to the test, and where we feel so extremely confused. Well they make it to the academy just for us to be left with more question. The academy is filled so many secrets, Verily and Falcons lives are on the line but they both hold secrets of their own.
The ending is what truly took me out. My heart broke and was not fixed. I will now be impatiently waiting for book 2 like my life depends on it. Oh also, this book will now become my new personality.
April 30, 2026
This is full “touch her and die (literally)” energy with magic, violence, and a man who is one bad day away from burning the world down.
The MMC (Falcen) is not pretending to be a good person. He’s basically a weapon on a leash, and the second the FMC becomes his problem, it’s over for everyone else.
The vibe is very much:
Controlled
Dangerous
and then suddenly… obsessed
Like he starts out “I’m just doing my job” and ends up “no one breathes near her unless they want to die.”....and we love it!!!
The FMC? Not weak, not helpless...just constantly in situations where things are going VERY wrong very fast. Her magic is chaotic, she’s figuring things out on the fly, and she does not make his life easier (which is why he spirals). Basically a chaos goblin 😈
So in a nutshell:
people fight → almost die → argue → accidentally bond → catch feelings → deny it → repeat
Is it healthy? No.
Is it stable? Also no.
Did I eat it up anyway? Yes. because I cannot turn down unhinged characters apparently
This is pure dark romantasy chaos with obsession, tension, and violence carrying the plot.
If You're looking for:
Morally Gray (borderline villain) MMC
Magic + Danger + Constant Tension
“he fell first and now everyone else suffers” Energy
…it delivers exactly that.
The MMC (Falcen) is not pretending to be a good person. He’s basically a weapon on a leash, and the second the FMC becomes his problem, it’s over for everyone else.
The vibe is very much:
Controlled
Dangerous
and then suddenly… obsessed
Like he starts out “I’m just doing my job” and ends up “no one breathes near her unless they want to die.”....and we love it!!!
The FMC? Not weak, not helpless...just constantly in situations where things are going VERY wrong very fast. Her magic is chaotic, she’s figuring things out on the fly, and she does not make his life easier (which is why he spirals). Basically a chaos goblin 😈
So in a nutshell:
people fight → almost die → argue → accidentally bond → catch feelings → deny it → repeat
Is it healthy? No.
Is it stable? Also no.
Did I eat it up anyway? Yes. because I cannot turn down unhinged characters apparently
This is pure dark romantasy chaos with obsession, tension, and violence carrying the plot.
If You're looking for:
Morally Gray (borderline villain) MMC
Magic + Danger + Constant Tension
“he fell first and now everyone else suffers” Energy
…it delivers exactly that.
April 24, 2026
4⭐️ | hidden gem + every trope hitting exactly how it should
I went into this ARC hoping for something good and ended up completely obsessed. From chapter one, I was locked in. Like actively talking about this book to anyone who would listen because it genuinely felt like discovering a hidden gem before everyone else gets their hands on it.
The magic system was incredible and felt so fresh, but what really got me was how every single trope was executed. And I mean that. Morally grey MMC, loathe to love, captor/captive, touch her and die… all of it hit. Nothing felt thrown in for the sake of it. It was intentional, well developed, and actually made me feel something. And listen… I am a SUCKER for loathe to love and that tension? That push and pull? Ate it up.
I loved this, full stop. And I am already counting down for book two because I need more immediately.
I went into this ARC hoping for something good and ended up completely obsessed. From chapter one, I was locked in. Like actively talking about this book to anyone who would listen because it genuinely felt like discovering a hidden gem before everyone else gets their hands on it.
The magic system was incredible and felt so fresh, but what really got me was how every single trope was executed. And I mean that. Morally grey MMC, loathe to love, captor/captive, touch her and die… all of it hit. Nothing felt thrown in for the sake of it. It was intentional, well developed, and actually made me feel something. And listen… I am a SUCKER for loathe to love and that tension? That push and pull? Ate it up.
I loved this, full stop. And I am already counting down for book two because I need more immediately.
April 30, 2026
Let me just start on the preface of the cliffhanger….I am still stuck there…like when is book 2 coming!?
Verily is our FMC with a power she doesn’t understand. The opening of the book, she resurrects her cat and then kills the boy that saw her do it.
Running from her village that doesn’t understand, she’s “rescued” by Falcen. Falcen is an Elite Render of the Resonance Academy and knows what she is.
Verily had heard the horrors of the Academy and does not want to partake in anything to do with it but really isn’t given a choice. She doesn’t understand nor is she trained in her powers and emotions really get the best of her.
Falcen and Verily are drawn to each other - Verily may be a little oblivious at first but the forced proximity is real. Wha happens when the person you just met holds a bond so strong you don’t know what to do with!? What are the consequences of trusting their actions and how far would you go to protect them!? There’s so many plot twists within the story - I could not put it down and cannot wait for book 2! Thank you VPR and Ketley for the early read! All opinions are my own.
Verily is our FMC with a power she doesn’t understand. The opening of the book, she resurrects her cat and then kills the boy that saw her do it.
Running from her village that doesn’t understand, she’s “rescued” by Falcen. Falcen is an Elite Render of the Resonance Academy and knows what she is.
Verily had heard the horrors of the Academy and does not want to partake in anything to do with it but really isn’t given a choice. She doesn’t understand nor is she trained in her powers and emotions really get the best of her.
Falcen and Verily are drawn to each other - Verily may be a little oblivious at first but the forced proximity is real. Wha happens when the person you just met holds a bond so strong you don’t know what to do with!? What are the consequences of trusting their actions and how far would you go to protect them!? There’s so many plot twists within the story - I could not put it down and cannot wait for book 2! Thank you VPR and Ketley for the early read! All opinions are my own.
Read
April 22, 2026Resonance hooked me from page one — original, dark, and utterly captivating. The worldbuilding is vivid and the dark academia + brutal trials vibe hit perfectly. Falcen is deliciously lethal and grumpy, the MC is fierce sunshine, and their chemistry is electric and messy in the best way. Pacing kept me turning pages; I finished it quickly because I couldn’t look away. If you love morally gray heroes, soul-magic, and enemies-to-lovers with stakes that actually matter, pick this up.
April 25, 2026
This is a pretty cool dark romantasy that has quite a different magic system than the usual. Our FMC, Verily, had just found out she is a soulren, which our beings that are able to suck souls out of mortals. However, she is considered a remnant, soulrens that manifested late. There comes Falcen, our MMC that is an elite soulren that forced Verily into the academy. So this is also a little dark academia.
I truly enjoyed this book. It took me a while to get a hold of the world building but once I did, it moved quite fast. Now the ending of this??? VILE. I’m still thinking about it. I will never get over it.
Anyway… 💯 recommend!
I truly enjoyed this book. It took me a while to get a hold of the world building but once I did, it moved quite fast. Now the ending of this??? VILE. I’m still thinking about it. I will never get over it.
Anyway… 💯 recommend!
April 27, 2026
I’m honestly not okay after this ending, it completely left me in shock. I didn’t expect to get hooked from the very beginning, only to end up feeling this lost by the end. This story pulls you in entirely, with a perfect balance of suspense, romance, fantasy, and an ever-present sense of darkness. 🙈
Falcen is an unconventional guardian... Arrogant, intense, yet deeply complex. His mission is to take Verily to the academy, but their dynamic quickly becomes more than just a task. He can’t help but provoke her, and that tension becomes both his weakness and the foundation of their connection. 😌
Verily, on the other hand, is still trying to understand what’s happening and why her power matters so much. She knows she has to survive, to learn how to control it before it consumes her, all while facing a darkness that has followed her since childhood. Her growth feels raw and real, especially through her confusion and fear.
Their relationship starts off forced, almost uncomfortable, but gradually evolves into something much deeper and more intense. Between Void attacks, the weight of their own abilities, and the need to protect each other, their bond becomes increasingly dangerous; not just because of external threats, but because of what they awaken in one another. 😏😏😏
There’s a constant sense of risk: of failure, of losing themselves, of letting the darkness erase what little humanity remains. And in the end, what weighs the most isn’t just the mission… but their feelings. 🫣🫣
Dark, immersive, and emotionally intense. A story that completely pulls you in and refuses to let go.
Maybe they’ll fall into resonance. ✨⚔️
Español
No estoy soportando este final, de verdad me dejó en shock. No esperaba para nada engancharme desde el inicio y terminar sintiéndome así de perdida al final. Es de esas historias que te envuelven por completo, con el balance perfecto entre suspenso, romance, fantasía y una oscuridad que se siente constante. 🙈
Falcen es un guardián poco convencional: arrogante, intenso, pero increíblemente complejo. Su misión es llevar a Verily a la academia, pero su dinámica con ella va mucho más allá de una simple encomienda. No puede evitar provocarla, y eso termina siendo tanto su debilidad como parte de lo que los conecta. 😌😌
Por otro lado, Verily está en un punto donde no entiende del todo qué está pasando ni por qué su poder es tan importante. Solo sabe que debe sobrevivir, aprender a controlarlo antes de que la controle a ella, y enfrentarse a una oscuridad que la ha perseguido desde siempre. Su crecimiento se siente muy real, especialmente en medio de la confusión y el miedo.
La relación entre ambos comienza forzada, casi incómoda, pero evoluciona a algo mucho más profundo e intenso. Entre ataques de los Voids, el peso de sus propios dones y la necesidad de protegerse mutuamente, su conexión empieza a volverse peligrosa… no solo por lo que enfrentan afuera, sino por lo que despiertan el uno en el otro. 😏😏😏
Hay una constante sensación de riesgo: de fallar, de perderse, de dejar que la oscuridad borre lo poco de humanidad que queda. Y al final, lo que más pesa no es solo la misión… sino sus propios sentimientos. 🫣🫣🫣
Oscuro, envolvente y emocionalmente intenso. Definitivamente una historia que te atrapa y no te suelta.
Quizá puedan entrar en resonancia. ✨⚔️
Falcen is an unconventional guardian... Arrogant, intense, yet deeply complex. His mission is to take Verily to the academy, but their dynamic quickly becomes more than just a task. He can’t help but provoke her, and that tension becomes both his weakness and the foundation of their connection. 😌
Verily, on the other hand, is still trying to understand what’s happening and why her power matters so much. She knows she has to survive, to learn how to control it before it consumes her, all while facing a darkness that has followed her since childhood. Her growth feels raw and real, especially through her confusion and fear.
Their relationship starts off forced, almost uncomfortable, but gradually evolves into something much deeper and more intense. Between Void attacks, the weight of their own abilities, and the need to protect each other, their bond becomes increasingly dangerous; not just because of external threats, but because of what they awaken in one another. 😏😏😏
There’s a constant sense of risk: of failure, of losing themselves, of letting the darkness erase what little humanity remains. And in the end, what weighs the most isn’t just the mission… but their feelings. 🫣🫣
Dark, immersive, and emotionally intense. A story that completely pulls you in and refuses to let go.
Maybe they’ll fall into resonance. ✨⚔️
Español
No estoy soportando este final, de verdad me dejó en shock. No esperaba para nada engancharme desde el inicio y terminar sintiéndome así de perdida al final. Es de esas historias que te envuelven por completo, con el balance perfecto entre suspenso, romance, fantasía y una oscuridad que se siente constante. 🙈
Falcen es un guardián poco convencional: arrogante, intenso, pero increíblemente complejo. Su misión es llevar a Verily a la academia, pero su dinámica con ella va mucho más allá de una simple encomienda. No puede evitar provocarla, y eso termina siendo tanto su debilidad como parte de lo que los conecta. 😌😌
Por otro lado, Verily está en un punto donde no entiende del todo qué está pasando ni por qué su poder es tan importante. Solo sabe que debe sobrevivir, aprender a controlarlo antes de que la controle a ella, y enfrentarse a una oscuridad que la ha perseguido desde siempre. Su crecimiento se siente muy real, especialmente en medio de la confusión y el miedo.
La relación entre ambos comienza forzada, casi incómoda, pero evoluciona a algo mucho más profundo e intenso. Entre ataques de los Voids, el peso de sus propios dones y la necesidad de protegerse mutuamente, su conexión empieza a volverse peligrosa… no solo por lo que enfrentan afuera, sino por lo que despiertan el uno en el otro. 😏😏😏
Hay una constante sensación de riesgo: de fallar, de perderse, de dejar que la oscuridad borre lo poco de humanidad que queda. Y al final, lo que más pesa no es solo la misión… sino sus propios sentimientos. 🫣🫣🫣
Oscuro, envolvente y emocionalmente intenso. Definitivamente una historia que te atrapa y no te suelta.
Quizá puedan entrar en resonancia. ✨⚔️
Read
April 30, 2026What happens when power is not something you master, but something that slowly consumes you?
Resonance by Ketley Allison opens with a moment of loss that quickly turns into something far more dangerous. A girl who was meant to remain invisible suddenly reveals a rare and forbidden ability, and is dragged into an academy where magic is not taught, but weaponized.
This is a dark romantasy with strong dark academia elements, where atmosphere and psychological tension take precedence over spectacle. The world unfolds gradually, without heavy exposition, allowing both the reader and the protagonist to navigate uncertainty together. That sense of disorientation becomes part of the experience itself, reinforcing the novel’s core themes: identity, corruption, and the fragile boundary between saving someone and losing them entirely.
Verily is a protagonist defined by contradiction—reactive yet determined, emotionally open yet often unable to fully grasp the consequences of her choices. Her journey is less about empowerment and more about survival. While this makes her realistic, her growth feels intentionally restrained, leaving a lingering sense of incompleteness that seems almost deliberate. Falcen, in contrast, embodies the emotional center of the story: morally grey, controlled to the point of breaking, and constantly caught between duty and something far more dangerous. Their relationship unfolds as a slow burn, built on restraint, proximity, and an undercurrent of inevitability that never fully resolves.
What makes this book compelling is not just its academy setting or its magic system, but its willingness to remain emotionally unresolved. It leans heavily into ambiguity and psychological tension rather than offering clear answers or comfort. At times, this works beautifully; at others, it creates a distance that may not resonate with every reader.
The pacing is steady but immersive, prioritizing atmosphere over action. The writing style is fluid and evocative, drawing clear inspiration from modern romantasy while maintaining a certain restraint: emotions are conveyed through silence, internal conflict, and subtle shifts rather than dramatic declarations. This makes the romance feel more believable, but also more frustrating, because it never fully delivers the emotional release some readers might expect.
Character-wise, the dynamic between Verily and Falcen carries most of the narrative weight. Falcen stands out as the more layered and compelling presence, always on the edge of losing control, while Verily, though relatable in her vulnerability, can feel somewhat static, as if her arc is intentionally being held back for future development. This imbalance doesn’t break the story, but it does influence how deeply you might connect with it by the end.
Overall, this is a character-driven fantasy that prioritizes introspection, tension, and moral ambiguity over action and resolution. It will resonate with readers who enjoy slow-burn dynamics, morally grey characters, and oppressive dark academia settings. However, if you are looking for rapid character growth or a fully satisfying emotional payoff, it might leave you slightly unsettled.
Perhaps the real question the story leaves behind is this: when someone is already slipping beyond themselves, is love an act of salvation… or simply another form of loss?
Resonance by Ketley Allison opens with a moment of loss that quickly turns into something far more dangerous. A girl who was meant to remain invisible suddenly reveals a rare and forbidden ability, and is dragged into an academy where magic is not taught, but weaponized.
This is a dark romantasy with strong dark academia elements, where atmosphere and psychological tension take precedence over spectacle. The world unfolds gradually, without heavy exposition, allowing both the reader and the protagonist to navigate uncertainty together. That sense of disorientation becomes part of the experience itself, reinforcing the novel’s core themes: identity, corruption, and the fragile boundary between saving someone and losing them entirely.
Verily is a protagonist defined by contradiction—reactive yet determined, emotionally open yet often unable to fully grasp the consequences of her choices. Her journey is less about empowerment and more about survival. While this makes her realistic, her growth feels intentionally restrained, leaving a lingering sense of incompleteness that seems almost deliberate. Falcen, in contrast, embodies the emotional center of the story: morally grey, controlled to the point of breaking, and constantly caught between duty and something far more dangerous. Their relationship unfolds as a slow burn, built on restraint, proximity, and an undercurrent of inevitability that never fully resolves.
What makes this book compelling is not just its academy setting or its magic system, but its willingness to remain emotionally unresolved. It leans heavily into ambiguity and psychological tension rather than offering clear answers or comfort. At times, this works beautifully; at others, it creates a distance that may not resonate with every reader.
The pacing is steady but immersive, prioritizing atmosphere over action. The writing style is fluid and evocative, drawing clear inspiration from modern romantasy while maintaining a certain restraint: emotions are conveyed through silence, internal conflict, and subtle shifts rather than dramatic declarations. This makes the romance feel more believable, but also more frustrating, because it never fully delivers the emotional release some readers might expect.
Character-wise, the dynamic between Verily and Falcen carries most of the narrative weight. Falcen stands out as the more layered and compelling presence, always on the edge of losing control, while Verily, though relatable in her vulnerability, can feel somewhat static, as if her arc is intentionally being held back for future development. This imbalance doesn’t break the story, but it does influence how deeply you might connect with it by the end.
Overall, this is a character-driven fantasy that prioritizes introspection, tension, and moral ambiguity over action and resolution. It will resonate with readers who enjoy slow-burn dynamics, morally grey characters, and oppressive dark academia settings. However, if you are looking for rapid character growth or a fully satisfying emotional payoff, it might leave you slightly unsettled.
Perhaps the real question the story leaves behind is this: when someone is already slipping beyond themselves, is love an act of salvation… or simply another form of loss?
May 4, 2026
When I saw Ketley was publishing a new saga, my curiosity skyrocketed! I'd already read a couple of her previous series and loved them, but seeing her in a more fantasy-themed guise intrigued me even more. I must say I'm pleasantly surprised, because she's managed to hold her own even in this guise without losing her trademark dark edge.
We're immediately transported to the world of Velhoria, a kingdom inhabited by dark creatures, where some humans are born with supernatural and terrifying powers, misunderstood by most. The magical world is very complex and initially challenging to navigate, but I think this is partly intentional, to ensure an aura of mystery surrounds both the kingdom and the characters. Verily is a girl who has spent her life in a village on the edge of the empire but, in her own small way, was relatively well off... until an event triggered the emergence of her Soulren powers. She's always lived with the knowledge that people with these powers are dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. There are also unpleasant rumors about their fate once they pass the Academy's doors. She'll do everything she can to hide, but someone is watching her from afar and has the task of catching her and bringing her within the walls of the institution she so desperately wants to avoid.
I won't tell you anything else about the plot from here, as it's too complex to explain briefly and you'd miss out on all the best parts. But suffice it to say that Verily isn't the typical predestined protagonist who passively accepts her role. Instead, she fights it tooth and nail, making mistakes that sometimes have serious consequences, but trying to learn from them, even if she doesn't always succeed. The important thing is that she always tries to do what's best, striving to remain herself and not allow herself to be overwhelmed by those who want to change her. Just as Falcen, the boy who took her away and was then forced to be her shadow and her teacher, also tries to understand. But Falcen is a complex boy, full of nuances. First he protects her, then he pushes her away, over and over again. Verily doesn't fall for it and digs deep until she finds the true essence of that broken boy, burdened by a burden greater than himself and with the sole desire to be free, in one sense or another.
This is a painful story, about destiny, about how life often presents us with a difficult and challenging path, about how sometimes we find ourselves burdened with labels and tasks we didn't ask for but must carry on anyway. We also learn the meaning of sacrifice and resignation, about how sometimes the pain is so strong that we just want to stop feeling it... but sometimes there's someone special enough to make us want to carry on a little longer, just a little longer, to protect and ensure that person's well-being, even at the cost of our own lives.
Resonance is this, but also so much more, too much to tell in a few lines, but I can assure you it's truly worth it. Each character has their own unique appeal, but Verily and Falcen can't help but get under your skin and take you with them on grandiose adventures and battles, in search of happiness, freedom, and your true self. Prepare a huge pack of tissues, too, because by the end, you'll find yourself crying like a baby, sobbing your heart out, thanks to that cliffhanger that I'd dare call practically illegal.
We're immediately transported to the world of Velhoria, a kingdom inhabited by dark creatures, where some humans are born with supernatural and terrifying powers, misunderstood by most. The magical world is very complex and initially challenging to navigate, but I think this is partly intentional, to ensure an aura of mystery surrounds both the kingdom and the characters. Verily is a girl who has spent her life in a village on the edge of the empire but, in her own small way, was relatively well off... until an event triggered the emergence of her Soulren powers. She's always lived with the knowledge that people with these powers are dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. There are also unpleasant rumors about their fate once they pass the Academy's doors. She'll do everything she can to hide, but someone is watching her from afar and has the task of catching her and bringing her within the walls of the institution she so desperately wants to avoid.
I won't tell you anything else about the plot from here, as it's too complex to explain briefly and you'd miss out on all the best parts. But suffice it to say that Verily isn't the typical predestined protagonist who passively accepts her role. Instead, she fights it tooth and nail, making mistakes that sometimes have serious consequences, but trying to learn from them, even if she doesn't always succeed. The important thing is that she always tries to do what's best, striving to remain herself and not allow herself to be overwhelmed by those who want to change her. Just as Falcen, the boy who took her away and was then forced to be her shadow and her teacher, also tries to understand. But Falcen is a complex boy, full of nuances. First he protects her, then he pushes her away, over and over again. Verily doesn't fall for it and digs deep until she finds the true essence of that broken boy, burdened by a burden greater than himself and with the sole desire to be free, in one sense or another.
This is a painful story, about destiny, about how life often presents us with a difficult and challenging path, about how sometimes we find ourselves burdened with labels and tasks we didn't ask for but must carry on anyway. We also learn the meaning of sacrifice and resignation, about how sometimes the pain is so strong that we just want to stop feeling it... but sometimes there's someone special enough to make us want to carry on a little longer, just a little longer, to protect and ensure that person's well-being, even at the cost of our own lives.
Resonance is this, but also so much more, too much to tell in a few lines, but I can assure you it's truly worth it. Each character has their own unique appeal, but Verily and Falcen can't help but get under your skin and take you with them on grandiose adventures and battles, in search of happiness, freedom, and your true self. Prepare a huge pack of tissues, too, because by the end, you'll find yourself crying like a baby, sobbing your heart out, thanks to that cliffhanger that I'd dare call practically illegal.
May 4, 2026
When the book starts off with the FMC accidentally bringing her pet cat back from the dead, you know it's going to be a wild ride! The first book in The Soulren Series is a dark romantasy that delivers soul-magic, dark academia and an MMC that is the definition of "touch her and die." Resonance is a great start to an exciting new series!
Verily discovers she has magic when her cat dies and she accidentally kills the boy who saw her bring it back from the dead. While running for her life, she is caught by an Elite Soulren who is determined to deliver her to the magic academy for training. Along the way, they face challenges and threats that bring them closer together. But everything changes when they finally make it to the Academy.
I enjoyed the characters in this story, with a couple exceptions. Verily was a strong FMC but she did have moments where I just wanted to smack her. She is told multiple times, in multiple ways, not to use her magic. But she thinks she knows better and can handle it, while making things even worse and leading to unexpected consequences. Other than those parts, I liked her. As for Falcen, I liked the push and pull of good vs. evil in him. On one hand, he's trying to be his true self and trying to protect Verily. On the other, he's fighting the evil inside him and says/does unforgiveable things. All of that just makes the ending that much more shocking!
The side characters were the perfect additions to the story and helped the story move along. There are some that you think will be good but turn out to be evil. Then there are some that you assume are going to turn on our MC's but end up helping them. Basically, they just add even more depth to the story and bring out more of an emotional response that wouldn't be there otherwise. Especially when you see what all of them have to go through at the Academy, not just our MC's.
Overall, I really wish we could give half stars because I would really give this book 4.5 stars. Besides the moments that I got annoyed with the characters, I really enjoyed this book. I did not have many expectations going into this book, as this was my first book from this author. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. I had such a good time reading this book but I cannot believe the cliffhanger we were left with! I am absolutely dying to get my hands on the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much to Valentine PR and the author for this ARC!
Verily discovers she has magic when her cat dies and she accidentally kills the boy who saw her bring it back from the dead. While running for her life, she is caught by an Elite Soulren who is determined to deliver her to the magic academy for training. Along the way, they face challenges and threats that bring them closer together. But everything changes when they finally make it to the Academy.
I enjoyed the characters in this story, with a couple exceptions. Verily was a strong FMC but she did have moments where I just wanted to smack her. She is told multiple times, in multiple ways, not to use her magic. But she thinks she knows better and can handle it, while making things even worse and leading to unexpected consequences. Other than those parts, I liked her. As for Falcen, I liked the push and pull of good vs. evil in him. On one hand, he's trying to be his true self and trying to protect Verily. On the other, he's fighting the evil inside him and says/does unforgiveable things. All of that just makes the ending that much more shocking!
The side characters were the perfect additions to the story and helped the story move along. There are some that you think will be good but turn out to be evil. Then there are some that you assume are going to turn on our MC's but end up helping them. Basically, they just add even more depth to the story and bring out more of an emotional response that wouldn't be there otherwise. Especially when you see what all of them have to go through at the Academy, not just our MC's.
Overall, I really wish we could give half stars because I would really give this book 4.5 stars. Besides the moments that I got annoyed with the characters, I really enjoyed this book. I did not have many expectations going into this book, as this was my first book from this author. To say I was pleasantly surprised would be an understatement. I had such a good time reading this book but I cannot believe the cliffhanger we were left with! I am absolutely dying to get my hands on the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much to Valentine PR and the author for this ARC!
May 6, 2026
Resonance was my first book by Ketley Allison, and I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect… or if I was even going to finish it. I do DNF when something isn’t working for me, but I hate doing it, and I really wanted to give this one a fair chance. Despite my initial hesitation to keep reading, I’m so glad I did, because before I even realized it, I was pulled in deeper and deeper until I was completely hooked and reading way too late into the night.
Keeping in mind I’m still fairly new to romantasy, I don’t know that I can speak to all the genre hallmarks. I’ll leave that to the readers who devour these books. What I can say is that I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. It’s dark, chaotic, and emotionally driven, with a plot that builds into something layered, intense, and full of tension.
The opening alone sets the tone. It’s raw, unsettling, and immediately lets you know this isn’t going to be a soft or easy read. From there, the story deepens into something more consuming, with a magic system that feels eerie and alive without ever becoming overwhelming. I loved how the world unfolds naturally instead of being over-explained.
Verily really worked for me as an FMC. She isn’t polished or in control of her power. She’s messy, reactive, and figuring things out as everything around her starts to spiral. It made her feel real, and I stayed invested in her the entire time.
Falcen… yeah. He’s controlled, dangerous, and holding on by just enough restraint to make every moment feel like it could snap. The tension between them is constant. Captor and captive. Teacher and threat. And something much deeper underneath it all. That push and pull dynamic absolutely delivered as their connection grew stronger and harder to ignore.
The plot moves with a steady intensity, layering in danger, trials, and shifting power dynamics without losing the emotional core. And while the romance definitely brings the heat, it’s the tension and slow build that really stood out for me.
That ending though… I was not prepared. It leaves you hanging in the best and worst way, and I’m already waiting for what comes next.
Story: 4⭐
Spice: 3🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Romantasy
Tropes/Themes:
🖤 Morally Grey MMC
🖤 Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul)
🖤 Captor/Captive
🖤 Bad Boy/Good Girl
🖤 Black Cat Heroine
🖤 Boy Falls First
🖤 Close Proximity
🖤 Fated Mates
🖤 Dark Academia
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤 Guarded Hearts
🖤 Loathe to Love
🖤 Guardian Ward
🖤 Kidnapped
🖤 Power Imbalance
Keeping in mind I’m still fairly new to romantasy, I don’t know that I can speak to all the genre hallmarks. I’ll leave that to the readers who devour these books. What I can say is that I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this story. It’s dark, chaotic, and emotionally driven, with a plot that builds into something layered, intense, and full of tension.
The opening alone sets the tone. It’s raw, unsettling, and immediately lets you know this isn’t going to be a soft or easy read. From there, the story deepens into something more consuming, with a magic system that feels eerie and alive without ever becoming overwhelming. I loved how the world unfolds naturally instead of being over-explained.
Verily really worked for me as an FMC. She isn’t polished or in control of her power. She’s messy, reactive, and figuring things out as everything around her starts to spiral. It made her feel real, and I stayed invested in her the entire time.
Falcen… yeah. He’s controlled, dangerous, and holding on by just enough restraint to make every moment feel like it could snap. The tension between them is constant. Captor and captive. Teacher and threat. And something much deeper underneath it all. That push and pull dynamic absolutely delivered as their connection grew stronger and harder to ignore.
The plot moves with a steady intensity, layering in danger, trials, and shifting power dynamics without losing the emotional core. And while the romance definitely brings the heat, it’s the tension and slow build that really stood out for me.
That ending though… I was not prepared. It leaves you hanging in the best and worst way, and I’m already waiting for what comes next.
Story: 4⭐
Spice: 3🌶️
Genre:
🖤 Romantasy
Tropes/Themes:
🖤 Morally Grey MMC
🖤 Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul)
🖤 Captor/Captive
🖤 Bad Boy/Good Girl
🖤 Black Cat Heroine
🖤 Boy Falls First
🖤 Close Proximity
🖤 Fated Mates
🖤 Dark Academia
🖤 Grumpy/Sunshine
🖤 Guarded Hearts
🖤 Loathe to Love
🖤 Guardian Ward
🖤 Kidnapped
🖤 Power Imbalance
May 15, 2026
This is the most drama horror filled Romantasy of a book having never read the author or much of this style of book before I wasn't prepared believe me it's like some one poured all my emotions into a bottle shook me up into and emotional dramatic and tragic cliffhanger I'm just done and I cant wait for the next book.
How to describe my emotional trauma after this book there are no good verses evil here this world is dark the characters are almost beyond help and you think we'll maybe they deserve there fate a world full of dark magic decaying monsters troubled humans and I'm using the term lightly because ever character has some trauma or internal struggle to do the write thing when there battling something trying to literal control them and take all there humanity away as for Verily she really dose try but she's like that saying The Road to well you catch my drift was paved with many a good intention she's told many times to stop she doesn't understand that love can't heal all things and when you basically don't know what your capable of maybe you should just set down and keep quit and thats who Verily is she's definitely a cautionary tail. Verily raises her poor kitty from the dead kills a spineless boy about to report her flees because nobody likes her kind only to end up with the one bad boy she shouldn't Falcen you hate him you hunger for him and you ultimately fall for him hes both awful and trying to do the write thing when you finally get a full picture of what he's becoming what the Academy did what our Mc dose trying to help you wonder is there any coming back from this ending. The sexual tension is there the tug and pull the i hate you but I don't know if I can go on without you build up to a very intense passion filled scene. The friendships that you just know will end badly to the suprises you didn't see coming and the bad guys who well you can't wait for them to get what's coming to them so I'm definitely on board to see there ending I hope it's truly gory and horrific. I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
How to describe my emotional trauma after this book there are no good verses evil here this world is dark the characters are almost beyond help and you think we'll maybe they deserve there fate a world full of dark magic decaying monsters troubled humans and I'm using the term lightly because ever character has some trauma or internal struggle to do the write thing when there battling something trying to literal control them and take all there humanity away as for Verily she really dose try but she's like that saying The Road to well you catch my drift was paved with many a good intention she's told many times to stop she doesn't understand that love can't heal all things and when you basically don't know what your capable of maybe you should just set down and keep quit and thats who Verily is she's definitely a cautionary tail. Verily raises her poor kitty from the dead kills a spineless boy about to report her flees because nobody likes her kind only to end up with the one bad boy she shouldn't Falcen you hate him you hunger for him and you ultimately fall for him hes both awful and trying to do the write thing when you finally get a full picture of what he's becoming what the Academy did what our Mc dose trying to help you wonder is there any coming back from this ending. The sexual tension is there the tug and pull the i hate you but I don't know if I can go on without you build up to a very intense passion filled scene. The friendships that you just know will end badly to the suprises you didn't see coming and the bad guys who well you can't wait for them to get what's coming to them so I'm definitely on board to see there ending I hope it's truly gory and horrific. I was allowed to read and advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
April 24, 2026
This book was such a special experience for me because it was my very first fantasy read — and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to the genre.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve always been curious about fantasy, but also intimidated by it. The idea of complex worlds, heavy lore, endless details, and long commitments made me hesitate for a long time. I had friends recommending popular fantasy series constantly, but I never felt ready to take that leap.
Then this book came into my life, and I decided to go in with an open mind and no expectations. I’m so glad I did.
One of the strongest things about this story is how accessible it felt for a first-time fantasy reader. I was never confused, never overwhelmed, and never felt disconnected from what was happening. The world-building was immersive and vivid, but it never overshadowed the emotional core of the story. Instead, it pulled me in deeper.
I could visualize scenes so clearly, which made everything feel alive. That ability to create a magical world while still keeping the reader grounded is something I deeply appreciated.
And then there are the characters. Their chemistry was undeniable. The tension, the emotional buildup, the banter — everything unfolded in such a satisfying way. This wasn’t a typical romance arc, and I loved that. It felt richer, layered, and more intense because of the setting and stakes around them.
The final chapters completely caught me off guard. I did not expect to feel that much by the end, but I was fully invested and emotionally wrecked in the best possible way.
This book didn’t just entertain me — it opened a door to an entirely new genre I was once afraid to explore. And now I’m already waiting impatiently for the next book.
A heartfelt thank you to the author and PR team for the opportunity to read this ARC and be part of the beginning of this journey. I would absolutely love to continue with this series moving forward.
— @monaafterdark 🌙
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve always been curious about fantasy, but also intimidated by it. The idea of complex worlds, heavy lore, endless details, and long commitments made me hesitate for a long time. I had friends recommending popular fantasy series constantly, but I never felt ready to take that leap.
Then this book came into my life, and I decided to go in with an open mind and no expectations. I’m so glad I did.
One of the strongest things about this story is how accessible it felt for a first-time fantasy reader. I was never confused, never overwhelmed, and never felt disconnected from what was happening. The world-building was immersive and vivid, but it never overshadowed the emotional core of the story. Instead, it pulled me in deeper.
I could visualize scenes so clearly, which made everything feel alive. That ability to create a magical world while still keeping the reader grounded is something I deeply appreciated.
And then there are the characters. Their chemistry was undeniable. The tension, the emotional buildup, the banter — everything unfolded in such a satisfying way. This wasn’t a typical romance arc, and I loved that. It felt richer, layered, and more intense because of the setting and stakes around them.
The final chapters completely caught me off guard. I did not expect to feel that much by the end, but I was fully invested and emotionally wrecked in the best possible way.
This book didn’t just entertain me — it opened a door to an entirely new genre I was once afraid to explore. And now I’m already waiting impatiently for the next book.
A heartfelt thank you to the author and PR team for the opportunity to read this ARC and be part of the beginning of this journey. I would absolutely love to continue with this series moving forward.
— @monaafterdark 🌙
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you @valentine_pr_ and the author for this eARC!
I went into this expecting dark academia with necromancy and came out completely consumed by it. This is one of those stories where the tension doesn’t just build...it lingers in every scene, every interaction, until you’re practically holding your breath waiting for something to snap.
That opening alone hooked me. Raising her cat from the dead and everything unraveling from there? I was immediately invested. The darker elements of the magic, especially the necromancy and soul consumption, felt eerie in the best way, and the magic system itself stood out in a genre where that’s not easy to do.
Falcen Reaves is exactly the kind of MMC I can’t get enough of....controlled, cursed, and constantly holding himself back. The restraint, the quiet intensity, the way everything he feels sits just beneath the surface… it makes every moment between him and Verily feel heavier. And when that control starts to slip, it’s so worth the wait. 🤭
Verily was such a strong FMC without falling into that frustrating dumb FMC territory. Her struggle with her power felt grounded, and I never found myself pulled out of the story because of her decisions. The dynamic between her and Falcen carried so much weight....captor turned teacher, forced proximity, and that undeniable pull neither of them fully understands. The chemistry between them was sharp and constant, and there were moments where the tension felt almost unbearable in the best way. 😏
And that ending… I’m still not okay. Ketley really said “good luck” and left us there. 👀
If you love darker romantasy with intense slow burn, morally gray characters, and a magic system that actually feels fresh, this is absolutely one to pick up.
I went into this expecting dark academia with necromancy and came out completely consumed by it. This is one of those stories where the tension doesn’t just build...it lingers in every scene, every interaction, until you’re practically holding your breath waiting for something to snap.
That opening alone hooked me. Raising her cat from the dead and everything unraveling from there? I was immediately invested. The darker elements of the magic, especially the necromancy and soul consumption, felt eerie in the best way, and the magic system itself stood out in a genre where that’s not easy to do.
Falcen Reaves is exactly the kind of MMC I can’t get enough of....controlled, cursed, and constantly holding himself back. The restraint, the quiet intensity, the way everything he feels sits just beneath the surface… it makes every moment between him and Verily feel heavier. And when that control starts to slip, it’s so worth the wait. 🤭
Verily was such a strong FMC without falling into that frustrating dumb FMC territory. Her struggle with her power felt grounded, and I never found myself pulled out of the story because of her decisions. The dynamic between her and Falcen carried so much weight....captor turned teacher, forced proximity, and that undeniable pull neither of them fully understands. The chemistry between them was sharp and constant, and there were moments where the tension felt almost unbearable in the best way. 😏
And that ending… I’m still not okay. Ketley really said “good luck” and left us there. 👀
If you love darker romantasy with intense slow burn, morally gray characters, and a magic system that actually feels fresh, this is absolutely one to pick up.
Review of advance copy
First of all… this ends on a cliffhanger; it has to, because that ending was brutal, painful, and unacceptable 😭 I literally just finished it and I’m still not over it. I was not ready, and it can't end like that.
Okay… now that I’ve taken a breath. I don’t usually read fantasy; it’s just not my genre, but Resonance intrigued me from the blurb and completely surprised me. What starts as an accidental act of magic spirals into an unintentional murder and then into a journey Verily never asked for; as a late Soulren bloomer with a power she doesn’t understand, she’s thrown into the deadly world of Resonance Academy full of trials, forbidden magic, and constant danger where students are literally fed to Void creatures. The whole concept: soul magic, Voids, Elites, Keeper, Drakes, monsters... felt intense and high-stakes throughout. Verily and Falcen’s relationship is built on tension, mistrust, forced proximity, chaos, push and pull, and undeniable chemistry; Falcen is the perfect morally gray MMC, cold, controlled, and dangerous, while Verily is strong, smart, and determined without being frustrating or naïve, even as she struggles with her identity, and they balance each other in that light vs. darkness way that just works. The protectiveness, the “I’d die for you” energy… yeah, that hurt. The atmosphere is dark and heavy, with scenes that genuinely made me uneasy; some moments shocked me, some frustrated me, and others had me just sitting there trying to process everything, and at times I felt more like Ember, that force inside Verily. And that ending… again, brutal. I need book two immediately. This was intense, emotional, and unexpectedly addictive. I went in unsure and came out completely hooked. Recommended!!
Okay… now that I’ve taken a breath. I don’t usually read fantasy; it’s just not my genre, but Resonance intrigued me from the blurb and completely surprised me. What starts as an accidental act of magic spirals into an unintentional murder and then into a journey Verily never asked for; as a late Soulren bloomer with a power she doesn’t understand, she’s thrown into the deadly world of Resonance Academy full of trials, forbidden magic, and constant danger where students are literally fed to Void creatures. The whole concept: soul magic, Voids, Elites, Keeper, Drakes, monsters... felt intense and high-stakes throughout. Verily and Falcen’s relationship is built on tension, mistrust, forced proximity, chaos, push and pull, and undeniable chemistry; Falcen is the perfect morally gray MMC, cold, controlled, and dangerous, while Verily is strong, smart, and determined without being frustrating or naïve, even as she struggles with her identity, and they balance each other in that light vs. darkness way that just works. The protectiveness, the “I’d die for you” energy… yeah, that hurt. The atmosphere is dark and heavy, with scenes that genuinely made me uneasy; some moments shocked me, some frustrated me, and others had me just sitting there trying to process everything, and at times I felt more like Ember, that force inside Verily. And that ending… again, brutal. I need book two immediately. This was intense, emotional, and unexpectedly addictive. I went in unsure and came out completely hooked. Recommended!!
April 20, 2026
Is this one of my favorite books of all time? Absolutely. I am RIVETED and consumed with the hold this amazing book has on me. The plot, characters, secrets, twists and turns…it was perfection!
This a romantasy unlike any other. Magic and darkness swirl at Resonance Academy. Brutal instructors and trials await Verily, a girl whose magic appeared suddenly and unexpectedly, along with Falcen, an Elite Render of the Academy. One who consumes souls to survive. He’s dark, brooding, dangerous, and cold. However, inside of him is a need to protect and care for Verily. His protection is masked in anger and brutal teachings; he wants to prepare her for the savage and ruthless lessons and the cold and honest truth of what and who she is - a Soulren. However, there’s something different about Verily.
She’s dangerous, unstable, and carries something that’s forbidden and unstable inside. She hears voices, can understand dark creatures, and something pulls at her from the darkness and soul of her new keeper. Like calls to like…
What begins as a battle to make it to the academy where she can be safe from her powers and the flowing, unstable magic, turns into a battle of searching for truth, uncovering secrets, and fighting an unseen battle for not only herself, but one she is starting to understand and see - Falcen. She can see through all his impenetrable armor and perfect mask. He sees her too, but in his turmoil and anguish, he only tries to push her away to keep her safe from the powers at be.
Resonance will be a book I’ll never forget, and I am so ready for book two. This is such an amazing start to a series! Perfect for those who love enemies to lovers, academy setting, touch her (and him) and die, morally grey heroes, and more! 100 stars!
This a romantasy unlike any other. Magic and darkness swirl at Resonance Academy. Brutal instructors and trials await Verily, a girl whose magic appeared suddenly and unexpectedly, along with Falcen, an Elite Render of the Academy. One who consumes souls to survive. He’s dark, brooding, dangerous, and cold. However, inside of him is a need to protect and care for Verily. His protection is masked in anger and brutal teachings; he wants to prepare her for the savage and ruthless lessons and the cold and honest truth of what and who she is - a Soulren. However, there’s something different about Verily.
She’s dangerous, unstable, and carries something that’s forbidden and unstable inside. She hears voices, can understand dark creatures, and something pulls at her from the darkness and soul of her new keeper. Like calls to like…
What begins as a battle to make it to the academy where she can be safe from her powers and the flowing, unstable magic, turns into a battle of searching for truth, uncovering secrets, and fighting an unseen battle for not only herself, but one she is starting to understand and see - Falcen. She can see through all his impenetrable armor and perfect mask. He sees her too, but in his turmoil and anguish, he only tries to push her away to keep her safe from the powers at be.
Resonance will be a book I’ll never forget, and I am so ready for book two. This is such an amazing start to a series! Perfect for those who love enemies to lovers, academy setting, touch her (and him) and die, morally grey heroes, and more! 100 stars!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This dark romantasy snuck up on me as I thought we were headed in one direction and then surprise, an entire other world of possibilities and darkness opened up. Full of tension, dangerous circumstances, forbidden love and impossible odds, this one took me on an emotional roller coaster I am still reeling from!
TROPES
🖤Morally Grey MMC 💀Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul). ⛓️💥Captor/Captive 🐈⬛Black Cat Heroine 💙Boy Falls First 🖤Close Proximity 👥Fated Mates 📓Dark Academia ☀️Grumpy/Sunshine ❤️Loathe to Love 🗡️Guardian Ward 🖤K1dnapped
Verily, the FMC, pushes boundaries and her luck at every turn, and there were a few times I wanted her to STOP IT! and try to avoid trouble—of course, that didn’t happen, and then I’m left waiting for the consequences to unfold on every page. Falcen is the grumpy, broody, morally grey MMC, and he outwardly loathes Verily even though he keeps ensuring she’s protected. The feelings are mutual—until they aren’t, but they’re not in a situation where they can be anything else to each other, and this creates a dance of forbidden love that tore at my heart.
With clever world building and a unique magic system that includes death magic, void creatures, soul eaters and a black rot that threatens to consume its hosts from the inside out, the plot kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat. I was entirely not prepared for the cliffhanger ending which has left me asking WTF just happened and demanding answers, not to mention the next book NOW! With some of my favorite tropes including a black cat, fierce FMC, a grumpy, morally grey MMC, close proximity, fated mates and a dark academia setting, I loved this one and recommend it for your romantasy TBR!
TROPES
🖤Morally Grey MMC 💀Touch Her and Die (Literally. He will consume your soul). ⛓️💥Captor/Captive 🐈⬛Black Cat Heroine 💙Boy Falls First 🖤Close Proximity 👥Fated Mates 📓Dark Academia ☀️Grumpy/Sunshine ❤️Loathe to Love 🗡️Guardian Ward 🖤K1dnapped
Verily, the FMC, pushes boundaries and her luck at every turn, and there were a few times I wanted her to STOP IT! and try to avoid trouble—of course, that didn’t happen, and then I’m left waiting for the consequences to unfold on every page. Falcen is the grumpy, broody, morally grey MMC, and he outwardly loathes Verily even though he keeps ensuring she’s protected. The feelings are mutual—until they aren’t, but they’re not in a situation where they can be anything else to each other, and this creates a dance of forbidden love that tore at my heart.
With clever world building and a unique magic system that includes death magic, void creatures, soul eaters and a black rot that threatens to consume its hosts from the inside out, the plot kept me guessing and on the edge of my seat. I was entirely not prepared for the cliffhanger ending which has left me asking WTF just happened and demanding answers, not to mention the next book NOW! With some of my favorite tropes including a black cat, fierce FMC, a grumpy, morally grey MMC, close proximity, fated mates and a dark academia setting, I loved this one and recommend it for your romantasy TBR!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have very mixed feelings about Resonance, but in a way that still makes me glad I read it.
This is definitely a dark romantasy through and through, necromancy, soul trafficking, a dangerous magical academy, and a morally grey MMC who fully leans into the “touch her and die” energy. Falcen and Verily’s dynamic is intense right from the start, built on a captor/captive situation and forced proximity that naturally creates tension. It very much plays into the loathe to love trope, though at times it felt like it tipped a bit too quickly into insta lust rather than a slower emotional burn.
The worldbuilding was one of my favorite parts. The magic system felt fresh and interesting without being overly complicated, and I appreciated how easy it was to follow. The darker elements, especially the necromancy and soul trafficking, gave the story a really eerie, immersive atmosphere, and the inclusion of mythical creatures added to that richness.
Where it lost me a bit was the pacing. I struggled to fully get into the story at first, and throughout the book it felt uneven, some parts rushed, others dragging slightly. I couldn’t shake the feeling that the book could have been shorter by quite a bit and still delivered the same overall impact.
That said… the ending? Completely threw me. I’m still thinking about it and trying to process what it means for the next installment. It definitely did its job in making me curious enough to continue the series.
So while this wasn’t a perfect read for me, it had enough originality, dark atmosphere, and intrigue to keep me hooked, especially by the end.
This is definitely a dark romantasy through and through, necromancy, soul trafficking, a dangerous magical academy, and a morally grey MMC who fully leans into the “touch her and die” energy. Falcen and Verily’s dynamic is intense right from the start, built on a captor/captive situation and forced proximity that naturally creates tension. It very much plays into the loathe to love trope, though at times it felt like it tipped a bit too quickly into insta lust rather than a slower emotional burn.
The worldbuilding was one of my favorite parts. The magic system felt fresh and interesting without being overly complicated, and I appreciated how easy it was to follow. The darker elements, especially the necromancy and soul trafficking, gave the story a really eerie, immersive atmosphere, and the inclusion of mythical creatures added to that richness.
Where it lost me a bit was the pacing. I struggled to fully get into the story at first, and throughout the book it felt uneven, some parts rushed, others dragging slightly. I couldn’t shake the feeling that the book could have been shorter by quite a bit and still delivered the same overall impact.
That said… the ending? Completely threw me. I’m still thinking about it and trying to process what it means for the next installment. It definitely did its job in making me curious enough to continue the series.
So while this wasn’t a perfect read for me, it had enough originality, dark atmosphere, and intrigue to keep me hooked, especially by the end.
May 16, 2026
Resonance by Ketley Allison was SUCH a weirdly addicting reading experience because you are literally dropped into the middle of the story and just expected to keep up. It honestly feels like starting a TV show halfway through an episode, but instead of giving you giant info dumps, the book slowly fills in the gaps through flashbacks and little moments along the way.
At first I was kind of confused, but in a good way? Like I always felt like something bigger was happening under the surface. Falcen gets sent to protect Verily and take her to the academy, but nobody is really explaining WHY she’s important or what the actual mission is, and the whole time I was just sitting there like “okay what is REALLY going on here.”
Also the enemies to lovers? Oh we are DEEP in the enemy phase for most of this book. But the tension and pull between them is there almost immediately and I ate it up.
Then suddenly we add dragons?? Academy politics?? Family drama?? Magic lore?? And somehow it all works together. A lot of this book is really focused on world building and understanding the magic system, but it never felt boring to me because there was always this looming feeling that something massive was coming. Even at like 75% I still had absolutely no idea where the story was heading.
AND THAT ENDING.
Verily I am begging you to PLEASE start listening to people because now we are all suffering because of your choices 😭
I finished this book completely distraught, confused, smiling, annoyed, and immediately needing book two. Like I’m actually mad about that ending but also obsessed with it at the same time.
At first I was kind of confused, but in a good way? Like I always felt like something bigger was happening under the surface. Falcen gets sent to protect Verily and take her to the academy, but nobody is really explaining WHY she’s important or what the actual mission is, and the whole time I was just sitting there like “okay what is REALLY going on here.”
Also the enemies to lovers? Oh we are DEEP in the enemy phase for most of this book. But the tension and pull between them is there almost immediately and I ate it up.
Then suddenly we add dragons?? Academy politics?? Family drama?? Magic lore?? And somehow it all works together. A lot of this book is really focused on world building and understanding the magic system, but it never felt boring to me because there was always this looming feeling that something massive was coming. Even at like 75% I still had absolutely no idea where the story was heading.
AND THAT ENDING.
Verily I am begging you to PLEASE start listening to people because now we are all suffering because of your choices 😭
I finished this book completely distraught, confused, smiling, annoyed, and immediately needing book two. Like I’m actually mad about that ending but also obsessed with it at the same time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2026
SPEECHLESS…..I went into this one expecting a solid fantasy, but I wasn't prepared for how quickly Ketley Allison would wreck me. The atmosphere is dark, heavy, and completely immersive, no info-dumping here, just a steady, high-stakes build that kept me locked in from page one.
**What I Loved:**
The World-Building: Soul magic, Voids, and the "Deadly Academy" setting? It felt fresh and genuinely dangerous.
The Tropes: This is a masterclass in **Forced Proximity** and **Enemies to Lovers**. The tension between Verily and Falcen is top-tier. He is the quintessential morally grey hero, cold, dangerous, and fiercely protective.
The Pacing: The plot twists kept me guessing until the very last second. That cliffhanger is absolutely brutal and should be illegal. I needed Book 2 yesterday!
**Why the 0.5 Deduction⁉️:**
The only reason this isn’t a flat 5-star read for me is the **character growth**. While I loved the "broody" vibe of the FMC, Verily felt a bit stagnant. She spent most of the book lost and stubborn, and I was really hoping to see her evolve more by the final chapter. Since there wasn't much of a development arc from start to finish, I’m crossing my fingers that the author is saving her major breakthrough for the sequel.
**Final Verdict:**
If you want a character-driven fantasy with a strong voice, intense chemistry, and a plot that will leave your heart aching, **pick this up.** Just be ready for the emotional hangover.
**What I Loved:**
The World-Building: Soul magic, Voids, and the "Deadly Academy" setting? It felt fresh and genuinely dangerous.
The Tropes: This is a masterclass in **Forced Proximity** and **Enemies to Lovers**. The tension between Verily and Falcen is top-tier. He is the quintessential morally grey hero, cold, dangerous, and fiercely protective.
The Pacing: The plot twists kept me guessing until the very last second. That cliffhanger is absolutely brutal and should be illegal. I needed Book 2 yesterday!
**Why the 0.5 Deduction⁉️:**
The only reason this isn’t a flat 5-star read for me is the **character growth**. While I loved the "broody" vibe of the FMC, Verily felt a bit stagnant. She spent most of the book lost and stubborn, and I was really hoping to see her evolve more by the final chapter. Since there wasn't much of a development arc from start to finish, I’m crossing my fingers that the author is saving her major breakthrough for the sequel.
**Final Verdict:**
If you want a character-driven fantasy with a strong voice, intense chemistry, and a plot that will leave your heart aching, **pick this up.** Just be ready for the emotional hangover.
April 24, 2026
This book pulled me in fast, even when I wasn’t fully prepared for how intense it would get.
Resonance is dark romantasy with an academy setting that leans heavily into danger, power, and emotional tension. From the beginning, there’s this constant undercurrent that nothing is really stable—not the world, not the rules, and definitely not the relationships forming inside it.
Falcen Reaves fits the morally gray MMC mold in a very deliberate way—controlled, dangerous, and hard to fully read. The heroine balances him well by not folding easily, which makes their interactions feel like constant push-and-pull rather than anything straightforward. Their dynamic is messy, charged, and at times overwhelming in a way that kept me reading just to see what would happen next.
The magic system adds weight to everything happening in the story, especially in how closely it ties into the emotional stakes. There’s always the sense that things are escalating, even in quieter moments, which keeps the pacing tight.
That said, there were moments where the intensity outweighed emotional clarity for me, and I would’ve liked a bit more space to breathe with the characters outside of conflict or tension. But overall, it still delivered a gripping romantasy experience with strong chemistry and a compelling world.
If you enjoy darker academy romances with morally gray characters and high emotional stakes, this is worth picking up.
Resonance is dark romantasy with an academy setting that leans heavily into danger, power, and emotional tension. From the beginning, there’s this constant undercurrent that nothing is really stable—not the world, not the rules, and definitely not the relationships forming inside it.
Falcen Reaves fits the morally gray MMC mold in a very deliberate way—controlled, dangerous, and hard to fully read. The heroine balances him well by not folding easily, which makes their interactions feel like constant push-and-pull rather than anything straightforward. Their dynamic is messy, charged, and at times overwhelming in a way that kept me reading just to see what would happen next.
The magic system adds weight to everything happening in the story, especially in how closely it ties into the emotional stakes. There’s always the sense that things are escalating, even in quieter moments, which keeps the pacing tight.
That said, there were moments where the intensity outweighed emotional clarity for me, and I would’ve liked a bit more space to breathe with the characters outside of conflict or tension. But overall, it still delivered a gripping romantasy experience with strong chemistry and a compelling world.
If you enjoy darker academy romances with morally gray characters and high emotional stakes, this is worth picking up.
April 28, 2026
Thank you to Valentine_PR for the ARc opportunity.
I loved him, I hated him and still couldn't look away. Resonance ruined me. The tension? insane The vibes? dark, obsessive and dangerous. He's morally grey, down bad, touch her and you're done energy and yeah he fell first. I was gone right with him until I wasn't. Because the way he treated her once he was om his element ? yeah I loathed him for how he treated her. Captor/captive, forced proximity, power imbalance, messy in the best and worst way. She's guarded, black car energy, standing her ground and honestly? I felt that. The ending, yeah I'm still not okay! It didn't give me the clean resolution I wanted but made sense and now I can't stop thinking about it.
Spanish: Lo ame, lo odie y aun asi no pude dejar de leer. Rosonance me destruyo. La tension? una locura. Las vibras? oscuras, obsesivas, peligrosas. El moralmente gris, obsesionado, " si la tocas, te meures", el se enamora primero, Yo cai con el hasta que deje de hacerlo. Porque como la trato cuando estaba en su elemento? si li odie por un momento. Captor/cautiva, proximidad forzada, desequilibro de poder, caotico en el mejor y peor sentido. Ella es reservada, con energia de gato negro, manteniendose firme y honestamente? me identifique. Y ese final? si todavia no estoy bien. No me dio la resolucion limpia que queria pero tiene sentido y ahora no puedo dejar de pensar en eso.
I loved him, I hated him and still couldn't look away. Resonance ruined me. The tension? insane The vibes? dark, obsessive and dangerous. He's morally grey, down bad, touch her and you're done energy and yeah he fell first. I was gone right with him until I wasn't. Because the way he treated her once he was om his element ? yeah I loathed him for how he treated her. Captor/captive, forced proximity, power imbalance, messy in the best and worst way. She's guarded, black car energy, standing her ground and honestly? I felt that. The ending, yeah I'm still not okay! It didn't give me the clean resolution I wanted but made sense and now I can't stop thinking about it.
Spanish: Lo ame, lo odie y aun asi no pude dejar de leer. Rosonance me destruyo. La tension? una locura. Las vibras? oscuras, obsesivas, peligrosas. El moralmente gris, obsesionado, " si la tocas, te meures", el se enamora primero, Yo cai con el hasta que deje de hacerlo. Porque como la trato cuando estaba en su elemento? si li odie por un momento. Captor/cautiva, proximidad forzada, desequilibro de poder, caotico en el mejor y peor sentido. Ella es reservada, con energia de gato negro, manteniendose firme y honestamente? me identifique. Y ese final? si todavia no estoy bien. No me dio la resolucion limpia que queria pero tiene sentido y ahora no puedo dejar de pensar en eso.
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