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Eclipse of the Mortal Realm: Crone of White Flame Trilogy Book 1
The Veil has kept the realms separated since the beginning of time - until now.
When a spirit attacks Tharion, the truths the Kingdom has long tried to hide are finally the Veil is cracking, letting ancient evil into the realm of the living. The Fates have destined Tharion to save the realm – yet also to lose.
If he doesn’t stop the Veil’s collapse, a demon sorcerer will claw his way out, threatening to blanket the realm in darkness.
With the help of Eleanora, a brilliant but underestimated witch, and her familiar, Rowan, Tharion sets out to mend the Veil’s fractures before it’s too late.
But every step towards the end reveals new lies and old betrayals. The closer they get to the final breach, the more Tharion realizes that saving the realm will demand a sacrifice he isn’t ready to make.
When a spirit attacks Tharion, the truths the Kingdom has long tried to hide are finally the Veil is cracking, letting ancient evil into the realm of the living. The Fates have destined Tharion to save the realm – yet also to lose.
If he doesn’t stop the Veil’s collapse, a demon sorcerer will claw his way out, threatening to blanket the realm in darkness.
With the help of Eleanora, a brilliant but underestimated witch, and her familiar, Rowan, Tharion sets out to mend the Veil’s fractures before it’s too late.
But every step towards the end reveals new lies and old betrayals. The closer they get to the final breach, the more Tharion realizes that saving the realm will demand a sacrifice he isn’t ready to make.
310 pages, Paperback
Published February 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 5, 2025
This is laid out to be a beautiful and action filled trilogy. This is so engaging and detailed. It made me feel like i was reading an old school fantasy with the magic system but the writing style was new and innovative. I was very happy. I cannot wait for more.
April 14, 2026
Wow this books was amazing can’t wait for book 2!!
This is the first book in the series Crone of White Flame Trilogy!!
The Veil has kept the realms separated since the beginning of time - until now.
But every step towards the end reveals new lies and old betrayals. The closer they get to the final breach, the more Tharion realizes that saving the realm will demand a sacrifice he isn’t ready to make.
This is the first book in the series Crone of White Flame Trilogy!!
The Veil has kept the realms separated since the beginning of time - until now.
But every step towards the end reveals new lies and old betrayals. The closer they get to the final breach, the more Tharion realizes that saving the realm will demand a sacrifice he isn’t ready to make.
March 31, 2026
Loved this book from start to finish. I fell in love with The Kingdom of Kyrris and it’s characters, the quest, the journey, and that ending wich had my jaw dropped! Can’t wait for the second book to release!!
November 28, 2025
5 glowing, devastating, heart-stolen stars
“Eclipse of the Mortal Realm” is the kind of debut that reminds you exactly why you love fantasy.
This book isn’t just a story, it’s an experience, one that lingers long after the final page and I was lucky enough to be able to arc read this amazing experience!
From the very beginning, I was hooked by the atmosphere: haunting, magical, emotionally raw.
C.J. Saint crafts a world where every answer leads to three more questions, and somehow you love being left in that delicious uncertainty. The fae politics, the danger lurking between the realms, the ancient prophecy threads, all woven together with a creeping touch of eldritch horror that is, quite honestly, chef’s kiss.
The characters are where this book truly shines.
Eleanora is the perfect balance of powerful yet terrified, brave yet breakable. She feels human in all the places that matter, even when the world demands she be more.
And then there’s Tharion.
Let me be absolutely clear: I adore him.
The slow-burn tension? Immaculate.
The quiet loyalty? Exquisite.
The emotional repression that cracks just enough to make you feral? Perfection.
He is the exact kind of morally-grey, battle-worn, soft-on-the-inside disaster that fantasy readers (and I) live for.
Vulpin, meanwhile, is the fox-shaped emotional support we all needed and weren’t prepared for. I fell in love with him instantly and I’m still not sure I’ve forgiven the author for certain scenes near the end that felt like an assault on my soul. Consider yourself warned.
The found family elements bloom slowly but beautifully, the cast is wonderfully lovable, and some of the emotional hits… yeah, they hurt. A lot. In the best (and worst) way.
Add in stunning elemental magic, fae court intrigue, epic fights, heartbreaking moments, mystery, destiny, creeping cosmic dread, and a romance that simmers then you have a debut that feels both familiar and refreshing at the same time.
Highly, highly recommended for readers who love:
High fantasy
Fae politics
Slow burn romance
Tragic, lovable characters
Found family dynamics
Magic with weight
A touch of eldritch darkness.
Emotional devastation served on a silver platter
I can’t wait for book two and I will be emotionally recovering from this one until then.
“Eclipse of the Mortal Realm” is the kind of debut that reminds you exactly why you love fantasy.
This book isn’t just a story, it’s an experience, one that lingers long after the final page and I was lucky enough to be able to arc read this amazing experience!
From the very beginning, I was hooked by the atmosphere: haunting, magical, emotionally raw.
C.J. Saint crafts a world where every answer leads to three more questions, and somehow you love being left in that delicious uncertainty. The fae politics, the danger lurking between the realms, the ancient prophecy threads, all woven together with a creeping touch of eldritch horror that is, quite honestly, chef’s kiss.
The characters are where this book truly shines.
Eleanora is the perfect balance of powerful yet terrified, brave yet breakable. She feels human in all the places that matter, even when the world demands she be more.
And then there’s Tharion.
Let me be absolutely clear: I adore him.
The slow-burn tension? Immaculate.
The quiet loyalty? Exquisite.
The emotional repression that cracks just enough to make you feral? Perfection.
He is the exact kind of morally-grey, battle-worn, soft-on-the-inside disaster that fantasy readers (and I) live for.
Vulpin, meanwhile, is the fox-shaped emotional support we all needed and weren’t prepared for. I fell in love with him instantly and I’m still not sure I’ve forgiven the author for certain scenes near the end that felt like an assault on my soul. Consider yourself warned.
The found family elements bloom slowly but beautifully, the cast is wonderfully lovable, and some of the emotional hits… yeah, they hurt. A lot. In the best (and worst) way.
Add in stunning elemental magic, fae court intrigue, epic fights, heartbreaking moments, mystery, destiny, creeping cosmic dread, and a romance that simmers then you have a debut that feels both familiar and refreshing at the same time.
Highly, highly recommended for readers who love:
High fantasy
Fae politics
Slow burn romance
Tragic, lovable characters
Found family dynamics
Magic with weight
A touch of eldritch darkness.
Emotional devastation served on a silver platter
I can’t wait for book two and I will be emotionally recovering from this one until then.
February 25, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is how you write a fantasy book that is heavy, emotional, and painful, yet still cosy in all the ways that matter. This is not cosy fantasy in the light-hearted sense. It is cosy because it leans into familiar fantasy tropes, executes them well, and then wraps them in layers of detail, foreshadowing, and emotional weight. That combination made it an absolute pleasure to read.
The book takes classic fantasy literature lore and adds an incredible amount of depth and familiarity, while still being easy to read and never complicated to follow. The world feels rich and layered without ever becoming overwhelming. The lore and world-building are firmly rooted in classic fantasy, with strong romantic undertones that heighten the emotional stakes.
Nothing feels rushed or incomplete, although it is clear this is the beginning of a trilogy and leaves room for growth. The level of detail is impressive. From scenery, to character names, to plot points, everything feels deliberately chosen and thoughtfully mapped out. I never once felt lost while following the story.
The overall vibe gave me strong Shadowhunter Chronicles vibes, and in the second half it also began to give Throne of Glass vibes, particularly as the pacing shifted into something more action-driven. That transition worked extremely well once the emotional and world-building foundations had been established.
The pacing at the beginning is slower, but it is absolutely necessary. It allows the reader to fully sit with the pain, emotion, and complexity of the world before the story begins to move faster.
The characters are one of the strongest elements of this book. Lucien quickly became one of my favourites, with his dry, sarcastic humour providing a sharp contrast to the emotional weight of the story. Elenora and Vorathiel also stood out, and I became deeply invested in their journeys. The character dynamics feel intentional and emotionally grounded.
Tharion deserves special mention as the MMC. He is deeply flawed, uncertain, and often ineffective, but in a way that makes him incredibly compelling. Rather than being easy to admire, he is easy to root for, and his struggle against destiny is one of the most engaging threads in the story.
The antagonist is handled particularly well. The book invites sympathy and emotional conflict early on, which adds depth and moral complexity to the narrative. I would have liked to see more of the villain on the page, but this did not detract from the overall experience.
One of the most powerful aspects of the book is how it explores grief. These moments are handled with brutal honesty and deeply contradictory emotion. The idea that the only way into the spirit realm is to leave the land of the living is especially devastating.
The inclusion of darker themes is handled with care and intention. The story does not shy away from pain or difficult subject matter, and these elements are woven naturally into the narrative rather than used for shock value.
The romance is subtle and driven by yearning rather than spectacle. It strengthens the plot rather than distracting from it, adding emotional weight and depth to the story without overwhelming it.
The friendships and found family dynamics are also beautifully done, particularly in the way the characters support one another through grief and healing. These relationships ground the story and give the emotional weight somewhere to land.
Overall, this is a deeply emotional and rewarding fantasy read, and one of the most enjoyable indie-published books of 2026.
This is how you write a fantasy book that is heavy, emotional, and painful, yet still cosy in all the ways that matter. This is not cosy fantasy in the light-hearted sense. It is cosy because it leans into familiar fantasy tropes, executes them well, and then wraps them in layers of detail, foreshadowing, and emotional weight. That combination made it an absolute pleasure to read.
The book takes classic fantasy literature lore and adds an incredible amount of depth and familiarity, while still being easy to read and never complicated to follow. The world feels rich and layered without ever becoming overwhelming. The lore and world-building are firmly rooted in classic fantasy, with strong romantic undertones that heighten the emotional stakes.
Nothing feels rushed or incomplete, although it is clear this is the beginning of a trilogy and leaves room for growth. The level of detail is impressive. From scenery, to character names, to plot points, everything feels deliberately chosen and thoughtfully mapped out. I never once felt lost while following the story.
The overall vibe gave me strong Shadowhunter Chronicles vibes, and in the second half it also began to give Throne of Glass vibes, particularly as the pacing shifted into something more action-driven. That transition worked extremely well once the emotional and world-building foundations had been established.
The pacing at the beginning is slower, but it is absolutely necessary. It allows the reader to fully sit with the pain, emotion, and complexity of the world before the story begins to move faster.
The characters are one of the strongest elements of this book. Lucien quickly became one of my favourites, with his dry, sarcastic humour providing a sharp contrast to the emotional weight of the story. Elenora and Vorathiel also stood out, and I became deeply invested in their journeys. The character dynamics feel intentional and emotionally grounded.
Tharion deserves special mention as the MMC. He is deeply flawed, uncertain, and often ineffective, but in a way that makes him incredibly compelling. Rather than being easy to admire, he is easy to root for, and his struggle against destiny is one of the most engaging threads in the story.
The antagonist is handled particularly well. The book invites sympathy and emotional conflict early on, which adds depth and moral complexity to the narrative. I would have liked to see more of the villain on the page, but this did not detract from the overall experience.
One of the most powerful aspects of the book is how it explores grief. These moments are handled with brutal honesty and deeply contradictory emotion. The idea that the only way into the spirit realm is to leave the land of the living is especially devastating.
The inclusion of darker themes is handled with care and intention. The story does not shy away from pain or difficult subject matter, and these elements are woven naturally into the narrative rather than used for shock value.
The romance is subtle and driven by yearning rather than spectacle. It strengthens the plot rather than distracting from it, adding emotional weight and depth to the story without overwhelming it.
The friendships and found family dynamics are also beautifully done, particularly in the way the characters support one another through grief and healing. These relationships ground the story and give the emotional weight somewhere to land.
Overall, this is a deeply emotional and rewarding fantasy read, and one of the most enjoyable indie-published books of 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much for the ARC! I had a blast reading it!
Summary:
As dictated by The Fates, Tharion is chosen to save the Mortal Realm from the oppression of ancient evil spirits. The Veil protecting the Mortal Realm is quickly breaking, and Tharion is no match for the demon trying to claw his way through the cracks. With his best friend Eleanora, a blood witch, and her familiar Rowan, a fox shifter, the three vow to train their powers and abilities so that they can take on the evil forces together, before it’s too late.
Things I liked:
The first thing I loved about this book was the writing! The language used is beautiful, and the imagery is well done. I could fully visualize how the characters and various locations within the world looked. I wouldn’t have been able to guess that this was a debut novel!
Of course, I also have to comment on how much I liked the characters. Through their actions, dialogue, and internal thoughts, Tharion and Eleanora felt so real. I usually struggle connecting with MCs in “chosen one” stories since we are told that they are weak and unprepared, yet they are magically stronger and better than everyone else in the story. This was thankfully not the case for Ari and Ela, as they needed to put in a lot of work before they felt they could continue with their quest.
Finally, I’m beyond impressed with world-building. It is very difficult to create and explain a high fantasy world without giving long-winded info-dumps. However, Saint was able to explain the world gradually through the actions and beliefs of the characters, while introducing deeper lore in the form of flashbacks told from other characters in the world.
Things I disliked:
I am happy to report that there is not much about this story that I disliked! My only gripe with the novel is more a matter of personal opinion than anything else; I found that the story moved very quickly. While this is something I’m sure many people would enjoy, I personally like it when characters debate what they should do before acting, and when they are in trouble, I like to see them struggle.
Who do I recommend to:
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys high fantasy novels! I could see similarities between Eclipse of the Mortal Realm and many of the other popular high fantasy series, such as LOTR and TOG.
Summary:
As dictated by The Fates, Tharion is chosen to save the Mortal Realm from the oppression of ancient evil spirits. The Veil protecting the Mortal Realm is quickly breaking, and Tharion is no match for the demon trying to claw his way through the cracks. With his best friend Eleanora, a blood witch, and her familiar Rowan, a fox shifter, the three vow to train their powers and abilities so that they can take on the evil forces together, before it’s too late.
Things I liked:
The first thing I loved about this book was the writing! The language used is beautiful, and the imagery is well done. I could fully visualize how the characters and various locations within the world looked. I wouldn’t have been able to guess that this was a debut novel!
Of course, I also have to comment on how much I liked the characters. Through their actions, dialogue, and internal thoughts, Tharion and Eleanora felt so real. I usually struggle connecting with MCs in “chosen one” stories since we are told that they are weak and unprepared, yet they are magically stronger and better than everyone else in the story. This was thankfully not the case for Ari and Ela, as they needed to put in a lot of work before they felt they could continue with their quest.
Finally, I’m beyond impressed with world-building. It is very difficult to create and explain a high fantasy world without giving long-winded info-dumps. However, Saint was able to explain the world gradually through the actions and beliefs of the characters, while introducing deeper lore in the form of flashbacks told from other characters in the world.
Things I disliked:
I am happy to report that there is not much about this story that I disliked! My only gripe with the novel is more a matter of personal opinion than anything else; I found that the story moved very quickly. While this is something I’m sure many people would enjoy, I personally like it when characters debate what they should do before acting, and when they are in trouble, I like to see them struggle.
Who do I recommend to:
I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys high fantasy novels! I could see similarities between Eclipse of the Mortal Realm and many of the other popular high fantasy series, such as LOTR and TOG.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ 5 stars - emotional, immersive, and utterly addictive ⭐
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Eclipse of the Mortal Realm by C.J. Saint, and honestly… I’m still not over it.
From the very beginning, I was completely drawn into the world - the atmosphere is rich, magical, and emotionally charged, with a story that slowly tightens its grip and refuses to let go. This book feels like classic high fantasy in the best way, but with a fresh, modern voice and a depth that really makes it shine.
Tharion was such a compelling character to follow. He begins the story full of self-doubt, uncertainty, and inner conflict, which made his growth throughout the book incredibly satisfying. Watching him step into himself, face the weight of destiny, and evolve along the journey was one of my favourite parts of the story.
Eleanora absolutely stole my heart. She’s confident, sharp, and sassy on the surface, but beneath that strength is someone deeply vulnerable and scarred by her family’s treatment of her. That contrast made her feel so real, and I loved how her emotional layers were slowly revealed.
And then there’s Rowan - cool, calm, loyal, and quietly brilliant. He’s exactly the kind of character you’d want on your side when everything starts falling apart.
Corvyn deserves special mention too - he is just the sweetest soul, and I adored every moment he was on the page.
The relationships, found family elements, and emotional beats were beautifully handled, and the slow-burn tension was perfection. Add in the magic, the looming danger, and the growing sense of dread as the story unfolds, and I was completely hooked.
And that cliffhanger… excuse me?!
I need book two immediately. Like yesterday. I am not okay.
Many thanks to the author for allowing me to ARC read this incredible book - I cannot wait to continue this series.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Eclipse of the Mortal Realm by C.J. Saint, and honestly… I’m still not over it.
From the very beginning, I was completely drawn into the world - the atmosphere is rich, magical, and emotionally charged, with a story that slowly tightens its grip and refuses to let go. This book feels like classic high fantasy in the best way, but with a fresh, modern voice and a depth that really makes it shine.
Tharion was such a compelling character to follow. He begins the story full of self-doubt, uncertainty, and inner conflict, which made his growth throughout the book incredibly satisfying. Watching him step into himself, face the weight of destiny, and evolve along the journey was one of my favourite parts of the story.
Eleanora absolutely stole my heart. She’s confident, sharp, and sassy on the surface, but beneath that strength is someone deeply vulnerable and scarred by her family’s treatment of her. That contrast made her feel so real, and I loved how her emotional layers were slowly revealed.
And then there’s Rowan - cool, calm, loyal, and quietly brilliant. He’s exactly the kind of character you’d want on your side when everything starts falling apart.
Corvyn deserves special mention too - he is just the sweetest soul, and I adored every moment he was on the page.
The relationships, found family elements, and emotional beats were beautifully handled, and the slow-burn tension was perfection. Add in the magic, the looming danger, and the growing sense of dread as the story unfolds, and I was completely hooked.
And that cliffhanger… excuse me?!
I need book two immediately. Like yesterday. I am not okay.
Many thanks to the author for allowing me to ARC read this incredible book - I cannot wait to continue this series.
May 4, 2026
Eclipse of the Mortal Realm by C. J. Saint completely pulled me in and refused to let go.
From the very beginning, there’s this quiet tension threading through the story — the sense that something is always just on the edge of breaking — and it builds so naturally into something epic. But what truly kept me hooked wasn’t just the looming threat or the unraveling mystery of the Veil… it was the characters.
The slow burn romance is done so well. It never feels forced or rushed — instead, it grows in the spaces between danger, in the looks not fully understood, in the moments where trust is earned rather than given. You feel it building long before anything is said outright, and that restraint makes every interaction hit harder. I found myself rooting for them constantly, clinging to those quieter moments as everything else threatened to fall apart.
And that’s really the heart of this book — you care. You root for their success not because the world is at stake (though it is), but because of what it means for them as people. Their fears, their hopes, the weight they carry… it all feels real. There were moments that genuinely made me well up, where the emotional stakes landed just as powerfully as the plot itself.
By the end, I was completely invested. It doesn’t hand you a neat resolution — instead, it leaves you with that aching, bittersweet feeling that something has shifted, that a cost has been set in motion. And honestly? That made it even more impactful.
If you love fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn romance, and characters you can’t help but root for, this is absolutely one to pick up. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
From the very beginning, there’s this quiet tension threading through the story — the sense that something is always just on the edge of breaking — and it builds so naturally into something epic. But what truly kept me hooked wasn’t just the looming threat or the unraveling mystery of the Veil… it was the characters.
The slow burn romance is done so well. It never feels forced or rushed — instead, it grows in the spaces between danger, in the looks not fully understood, in the moments where trust is earned rather than given. You feel it building long before anything is said outright, and that restraint makes every interaction hit harder. I found myself rooting for them constantly, clinging to those quieter moments as everything else threatened to fall apart.
And that’s really the heart of this book — you care. You root for their success not because the world is at stake (though it is), but because of what it means for them as people. Their fears, their hopes, the weight they carry… it all feels real. There were moments that genuinely made me well up, where the emotional stakes landed just as powerfully as the plot itself.
By the end, I was completely invested. It doesn’t hand you a neat resolution — instead, it leaves you with that aching, bittersweet feeling that something has shifted, that a cost has been set in motion. And honestly? That made it even more impactful.
If you love fantasy with emotional depth, slow-burn romance, and characters you can’t help but root for, this is absolutely one to pick up. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
December 24, 2025
Eclipse of the Mortal Realm follows Tharion as he’s tasked with saving the realm from an encroaching darkness. Alongside his best friend Eleanora and her familiar Rowan, he sets out on a journey to mend the veil before time runs out.
This is a slower-paced fantasy that leans heavily into atmosphere and character development rather than nonstop action. The world-building unfolds gradually, allowing the stakes to feel earned instead of rushed. If you enjoy taking your time settling into a realm, this story gives you the space to do just that.
The romance subplot is soft and tender, woven gently into the larger story instead of overpowering it. It adds warmth and emotional grounding, especially during quieter moments, and complements the overall tone beautifully.
While the pacing may feel slow for readers who prefer fast-moving plots, it suits the reflective nature of the story and the bond between the characters. This is the kind of book meant to be savored rather than rushed through.
Overall, Eclipse of the Mortal Realm is a thoughtful, character-driven fantasy with heart, ideal for readers who love gentle romance, meaningful friendships, and a slow-building sense of magic.
This is a slower-paced fantasy that leans heavily into atmosphere and character development rather than nonstop action. The world-building unfolds gradually, allowing the stakes to feel earned instead of rushed. If you enjoy taking your time settling into a realm, this story gives you the space to do just that.
The romance subplot is soft and tender, woven gently into the larger story instead of overpowering it. It adds warmth and emotional grounding, especially during quieter moments, and complements the overall tone beautifully.
While the pacing may feel slow for readers who prefer fast-moving plots, it suits the reflective nature of the story and the bond between the characters. This is the kind of book meant to be savored rather than rushed through.
Overall, Eclipse of the Mortal Realm is a thoughtful, character-driven fantasy with heart, ideal for readers who love gentle romance, meaningful friendships, and a slow-building sense of magic.
January 30, 2026
Eclipse of the Mortal Realm pulled me in with its atmosphere and steady emotional tension. The story balances the fantasy aspect, friendship, and romance beautifully. The book is quite fast-paced, so for me there was no moment where I felt bored or that I was reading like to much of a filler chapter.
For me, the characters are written beautifully. Tharion and Eleanora are easy to relate to (at least in their non-fantasy struggles) and very likeable main characters.
I really like that it is a slow-burn love thats earned and rooted in trust, with deep friendship as the foundation. The closed door moments were very fitting for the character‘s personalities. Having full explicit scenes would have felt wrong for the dynamic of the book for me.
While I feel in some fantasy books the worldbuilding can be a bit much, in EotMR it is engaging without being overwhelming.
The flashbacks were giving a lot of info but in a way that made it impossible for me to stop reading. By the end, I was fully invested and desperately wanting more.
For a debut novel, this is incredibly impressive. I hope C.J. is very, very proud of herself and I‘m so excited for book two!! 🫶🏻
For me, the characters are written beautifully. Tharion and Eleanora are easy to relate to (at least in their non-fantasy struggles) and very likeable main characters.
I really like that it is a slow-burn love thats earned and rooted in trust, with deep friendship as the foundation. The closed door moments were very fitting for the character‘s personalities. Having full explicit scenes would have felt wrong for the dynamic of the book for me.
While I feel in some fantasy books the worldbuilding can be a bit much, in EotMR it is engaging without being overwhelming.
The flashbacks were giving a lot of info but in a way that made it impossible for me to stop reading. By the end, I was fully invested and desperately wanting more.
For a debut novel, this is incredibly impressive. I hope C.J. is very, very proud of herself and I‘m so excited for book two!! 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a good story! A slower paced fantasy allowing you to feel the tension and slow burn between the characters. The writing is a bit different than I usually read, a delicate and romantic/poetic style that I ended up loving!
The aesthetic is enchanting and you find yourself able to connect with the characters instantly.
Tharion, our MMC, finds himself on a mission to save the realm from demons breaking through the veil from the spirit realm to the realm of the living with the help of our witchy FMC, Eleanora.
The found family aspect of this book will fill your heart. Rowan is Ela’s familiar who accompanies them on this mission. His personality jumps off the page! Their group picks up a few more friends along the way who become part of the family.
As the story progresses, you see the characters each overcome personal obstacles and really develop into their full potential. This story is absolutely full of emotions and twists and turns! I can’t wait to continue the trilogy!
The aesthetic is enchanting and you find yourself able to connect with the characters instantly.
Tharion, our MMC, finds himself on a mission to save the realm from demons breaking through the veil from the spirit realm to the realm of the living with the help of our witchy FMC, Eleanora.
The found family aspect of this book will fill your heart. Rowan is Ela’s familiar who accompanies them on this mission. His personality jumps off the page! Their group picks up a few more friends along the way who become part of the family.
As the story progresses, you see the characters each overcome personal obstacles and really develop into their full potential. This story is absolutely full of emotions and twists and turns! I can’t wait to continue the trilogy!
March 19, 2026
This book is very misleading… and I MEAN that in the best way possible.
Before you come for me…just hear me out.
C.J. Saint delivers a beautifully written dark fantasy romance with everything you think you’re signing up for. You have immersive world building, a steady reading pace, magic, shifters, fated mates, and characters you can’t help but fall for. It feels familiar… almost comfortable.
And then…
BAM💥💥💥
Right when you think you’ve settled into the story, the author drops a twist so unexpected it completely shakes you. Suddenly your heart is racing, your eyes are wide open, and putting the book down is no longer an option.
And just when you recover…
She DOES IT AGAIN. Without shame!
Over and over, this story keeps you on edge, pulling you deeper with every chapter. It’s sneaky, addictive, and honestly kind of genius.
But did she stop at shocking twists?
ABSOLUTELY NOT.
She went ahead and ripped my heart out in the process. The kind of emotional damage where you want to be mad, but can’t help but admire how well it was done.
Overall, this is a phenomenal read. 🖤📖
Before you come for me…just hear me out.
C.J. Saint delivers a beautifully written dark fantasy romance with everything you think you’re signing up for. You have immersive world building, a steady reading pace, magic, shifters, fated mates, and characters you can’t help but fall for. It feels familiar… almost comfortable.
And then…
BAM💥💥💥
Right when you think you’ve settled into the story, the author drops a twist so unexpected it completely shakes you. Suddenly your heart is racing, your eyes are wide open, and putting the book down is no longer an option.
And just when you recover…
She DOES IT AGAIN. Without shame!
Over and over, this story keeps you on edge, pulling you deeper with every chapter. It’s sneaky, addictive, and honestly kind of genius.
But did she stop at shocking twists?
ABSOLUTELY NOT.
She went ahead and ripped my heart out in the process. The kind of emotional damage where you want to be mad, but can’t help but admire how well it was done.
Overall, this is a phenomenal read. 🖤📖
January 23, 2026
I received this book as an ARC and I am happy to volunteer my honest review.
Overall I felt like the author created beautiful characters. I enjoyed reading about good natured characters throughout most of the story. From the character traits and the world building you get the idea that this is a beautiful and happy realm and that the people wish to keep it that way.
It has both a slow burn friends to lovers and a fated mates romance which I enjoyed. I thought the magical system including the magical weapons was unique although I do wish the weapons were given a little more action. I felt like the story line itself was slower paced with most of the action taking place in the last few chapters, and at the same time I felt parts were rushed. I found myself questioning how quickly they accepted new people and I would have liked a bit more time exploring them making decisions and practicing their magic and fighting skills.
That being said, this was an enjoyable read.
Overall I felt like the author created beautiful characters. I enjoyed reading about good natured characters throughout most of the story. From the character traits and the world building you get the idea that this is a beautiful and happy realm and that the people wish to keep it that way.
It has both a slow burn friends to lovers and a fated mates romance which I enjoyed. I thought the magical system including the magical weapons was unique although I do wish the weapons were given a little more action. I felt like the story line itself was slower paced with most of the action taking place in the last few chapters, and at the same time I felt parts were rushed. I found myself questioning how quickly they accepted new people and I would have liked a bit more time exploring them making decisions and practicing their magic and fighting skills.
That being said, this was an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is full of heart, longing, action, whimsy, and yet also an Eldritch-adjacent horror; aka an absolute treasure and breath of fresh air for the Romantasy genre and all of its affiliates!
The main cast of characters (Tharion, Eleanora, Rowan, and Corvyn) are all unique, fleshed-out, and filled with their own longingss, fears, and challenges. Much of the novel is very plot-driven in a way that grabs you by the wrist and pulls you into its depths as you follow the characters on their at-times reluctant adventure.
There are moral dilemmas, hardships, interruptions (if you know, you know), yearnings, and every other delicious morsel you can think of packed in here. Literally. Some of the food descriptions had me drooling!
Definitely recommend this read for anyone who likes Romantasy but is tired of the usual selection and wants a bolder flavour of the genre!
Eternally grateful to have received an advance copy of this novel from the author!
The main cast of characters (Tharion, Eleanora, Rowan, and Corvyn) are all unique, fleshed-out, and filled with their own longingss, fears, and challenges. Much of the novel is very plot-driven in a way that grabs you by the wrist and pulls you into its depths as you follow the characters on their at-times reluctant adventure.
There are moral dilemmas, hardships, interruptions (if you know, you know), yearnings, and every other delicious morsel you can think of packed in here. Literally. Some of the food descriptions had me drooling!
Definitely recommend this read for anyone who likes Romantasy but is tired of the usual selection and wants a bolder flavour of the genre!
Eternally grateful to have received an advance copy of this novel from the author!
November 27, 2025
I received this to read as an ARC.
If you love fantasy with romance then this is a MUST read. I can’t believe this is the authors debut novel as it is just fantastic. The way the author writes, immerses you into the world and I was captivated from the first page.
The characters are loveable - my favourite being Rowan the fox. I need a Rowan as a familiar even though his timing was impeccable (I don’t want to spoil it but you will absolutely understand once you read it). I have loved getting to know them all and reading about their adventure filled journey to the veil.
The author has put so much hard work into this and it shows. I’m so excited that there is going to be another & I can’t wait to read it once it’s finished. This is going to be a great series!
If you love fantasy with romance then this is a MUST read. I can’t believe this is the authors debut novel as it is just fantastic. The way the author writes, immerses you into the world and I was captivated from the first page.
The characters are loveable - my favourite being Rowan the fox. I need a Rowan as a familiar even though his timing was impeccable (I don’t want to spoil it but you will absolutely understand once you read it). I have loved getting to know them all and reading about their adventure filled journey to the veil.
The author has put so much hard work into this and it shows. I’m so excited that there is going to be another & I can’t wait to read it once it’s finished. This is going to be a great series!
January 11, 2026
A break in the veil between the living and the dead has a wonderful group of characters traveling to kill the demon responsible.
The plot is interesting and the kept me turning the page (tapping my screen). Their travels had side quests, trainings, and back stories that thickened the plot.
The book has a young adult feel to it due to the characters and the writing style, but then there is some spice that is definitely not. There is a slow burn which is semi innocent but then bam. Which I liked, just wasn’t prepared lol.
This is the first book on a trilogy so it does end on a cliffhanger.
The plot is interesting and the kept me turning the page (tapping my screen). Their travels had side quests, trainings, and back stories that thickened the plot.
The book has a young adult feel to it due to the characters and the writing style, but then there is some spice that is definitely not. There is a slow burn which is semi innocent but then bam. Which I liked, just wasn’t prepared lol.
This is the first book on a trilogy so it does end on a cliffhanger.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While Tharion, Eleanora, and Rowan set out to save the realm, they are faced with many trials along the way.
This book offers a slow burn friends to lovers, fated mates and magic! Not only is there character building individually, the relationships amongst the characters also build. Thr confidence that grows in themselves and each other really help strengthen their bonds.
The beginning of the book was a little slow, but there was a lot of character and world building. The second half of the book went really quick with all the events that took place.
Just when you think you have the ending figured out, it takes a bit of a turn and leaves you wanting to know how they continue!
This book offers a slow burn friends to lovers, fated mates and magic! Not only is there character building individually, the relationships amongst the characters also build. Thr confidence that grows in themselves and each other really help strengthen their bonds.
The beginning of the book was a little slow, but there was a lot of character and world building. The second half of the book went really quick with all the events that took place.
Just when you think you have the ending figured out, it takes a bit of a turn and leaves you wanting to know how they continue!
April 5, 2026
I honestly have no words. This book took me on such an emotional rollercoaster but I loved every single second of it. I fell in love with every single character. The way this is written is so beautiful and you really do create such emotional attachments to the main characters. Their friendships with each other are so heartwarming. The yearning had my heart, I could not put this book down every time Eleanora & Tharion were around each other, the same said for Corvyn and Rowan. If you love dark fantasy with an incredible magic system, you will 100% love this book! I can’t wait to read book 2 as that ending had me shocked and I NEED to know what happens next!
December 10, 2025
This was a rollercoaster to read😱😍🥺 This was so good that i felt like i was in the book living it all with them, perfect amount of build-up and tension to keep you hungry for more through out the entire book💓 I got to feel happiness, sadness, and all the feelings with this book. The vivid and amazing descriptions in this book really makes you see the story in your head while you read. 10/10 book for me, really recomends reading this when it comes out! Thanks for letting me be a part of the ARC-team🥰
April 1, 2026
Oh where to start with this wonderful book🥹
Firstly I adored Eleanora, Tharion, Rowan and Corvyn so much. These characters shine and the story itself is so beautifully written.
I did not want to put this book down, it had me hooked from the very first page it is amazing.
The world building and the relationships are fantastic.
This book has magic, heartbreak, grief, emotion, tension, happiness and so much more.
I went through ALL the emotions.
Would HIGHLY recommend.
I need to read Realm of silent screams immediately!
Firstly I adored Eleanora, Tharion, Rowan and Corvyn so much. These characters shine and the story itself is so beautifully written.
I did not want to put this book down, it had me hooked from the very first page it is amazing.
The world building and the relationships are fantastic.
This book has magic, heartbreak, grief, emotion, tension, happiness and so much more.
I went through ALL the emotions.
Would HIGHLY recommend.
I need to read Realm of silent screams immediately!
April 28, 2026
3.5
Although the premise is really good and the world is very well put together I did struggle to to get through it unfortunately. Its very slow paced and it's definitely a more character led story and yes the character building and their relationship growths are great the plot suffers for it and it often feels rushed in places until get back to the very well paced slow burn relationships between our main characters. It also reads like a YA novel and would be perfect in that space if it was for for small amount of spice through the story.
Although the premise is really good and the world is very well put together I did struggle to to get through it unfortunately. Its very slow paced and it's definitely a more character led story and yes the character building and their relationship growths are great the plot suffers for it and it often feels rushed in places until get back to the very well paced slow burn relationships between our main characters. It also reads like a YA novel and would be perfect in that space if it was for for small amount of spice through the story.
January 5, 2026
I was asked to be an arc reader for this book I am not a big fantasy book reader but this book had me hooked in the first few chapters. Loved the friendship between the characters and the chemistry between them
As well I truly was wanting a bit more thou of Rowan and Corvyn this isn’t a spicy book but does have some adult content so not a real YA book I would say ages 16-up overall
A great read and would recommend can’t wait to continue the journey into the veil with book 2
As well I truly was wanting a bit more thou of Rowan and Corvyn this isn’t a spicy book but does have some adult content so not a real YA book I would say ages 16-up overall
A great read and would recommend can’t wait to continue the journey into the veil with book 2
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to be sent this book by the author after we connected through tik tok and omg I love it. The found family trope is one of my favorites and the genuine connection the three main protagonists have is so wholesome. I love the will they won't they romance even through the two characters frustrate the fuck outta me coz just talk to each other !!
Was such a lovely read and I cannot wait for the next instalment ! ♥️♥️
Was such a lovely read and I cannot wait for the next instalment ! ♥️♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Eclipse of the Mortal Realm is a gripping start to the Crone of White Flame trilogy, blending dark fantasy with rich world building and mythic undertones. C.J. Saint crafts a haunting atmosphere filled with ancient power, moral ambiguity, and characters who feel shaped by both fate and choice. The prose is evocative, and the story steadily builds toward moments of real emotional and magical intensity. A strong debut that leaves you eager to see how the trilogy unfolds.
January 30, 2026
This book really pulled me in, especially because of the friendship between the main characters. Their bond felt real and added so much heart to the story. I also loved how their backstories were woven into the current plot in a way that actually mattered and made everything hit harder.
The worldbuilding and magic kept me hooked, and that ending?! It absolutely left me sitting there like… okay, I need the next book now.
The worldbuilding and magic kept me hooked, and that ending?! It absolutely left me sitting there like… okay, I need the next book now.
February 2, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. Wow just wow!! If you love fantasy you will love this book it had me captivating from the very beginning to the end!! You feel the emotions in the book from magical to the lurking dangers that linger!! Eleanor is a great FMC, brave powerful and at times terrifying! Chefs kiss to C.J. Saint! Beware of an emotional roller coaster!! I completely devoured this book!
March 23, 2026
A beautifully written fantasy told from multiple POVs. The world building in the book is brilliant, the characters rich and the relationships that develop are equally beautiful.
A tantalising slow burn, the tension has been written so well it can literally be felt. Some twists and surprising character developments, with a villain with a great backstory.
Very much looking forward to reading book two!
A tantalising slow burn, the tension has been written so well it can literally be felt. Some twists and surprising character developments, with a villain with a great backstory.
Very much looking forward to reading book two!
April 13, 2026
I absolutely adored this book, it was such a good read! I loved all the different types of magical beings in this story, and the way their different types of magic worked. The writing was so descriptive, I could picture how everything would look just perfectly. The characters were so loveable, the relationships too (we do love some LGBTQ+ representation!) The twists were great, and that ending!! So excited to read the sequel when it's released next month, C.J you've done a phenomenal job!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The way this book was written is the most perfect way to world build and drag you into the story making you feel like you’re part of it! This is a fantasy where you won’t want to out it down from the magic to the way the main characters slow burn it’s perfect! This might be my top read so far of 2026! I absolutely can’t wait for book 2! Definitely a book you won’t want to miss!
April 10, 2026
“I will never let you walk this earth without me, and I will destroy the one that makes me walk it without you. My mate.”
I just can't 😭😭 I barely ever give 5 star reviews, but this deserve 5 stars and more. It made me cry on multiple occasions, it made me laugh, it made me angry, and all of the feeling in-between.
I just can't 😭😭 I barely ever give 5 star reviews, but this deserve 5 stars and more. It made me cry on multiple occasions, it made me laugh, it made me angry, and all of the feeling in-between.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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