Geneva Lee is the New York Times, USA Today, and internationally bestselling author of the Birthright Cycle, the Royals Saga, and the Iconsverse, amongst other works. A recovering academic, Geneva traded studying books for writing them and never looked back. She currently lives in Kansas City with her high-school sweetheart, three children, two cats, and a rescued goldendoodle named Honey.
This may be one of my top reads of the year. Everything about Harbinger pulled me in, and I couldn’t get enough. The world-building, the character development, the pacing, every piece of it just came together so well.
Just when I thought I had everything figured out, another twist would catch me completely off guard and pull me even deeper into the story. I was hooked from beginning to end.
Watching Arden and Bishop’s relationship develop was one of my favorite parts. Seeing them slowly work through their fears and past trauma together had me kicking my feet like a schoolgirl. Their chemistry felt earned, and I loved every moment of their journey.
Arden is such a strong FMC from the very beginning, but she still experiences meaningful growth throughout the story. It made her feel incredibly compelling and easy to root for.
This was an incredible read, and I already can’t wait to see what comes next.
If you’re looking for your next romantasy obsession, this is it. I’m calling it now!!!!! The biggest book of the year!!! This book gave me all the epic fantasy vibes of Game of Thrones without all the parts that made me want to look away. The world-building is rich, the politics are intriguing, and I couldn’t put it down.
At the heart of it all is a leading heroine who completely stole my heart she’s powerful in a way that feels real, kind-hearted without being naive, and constantly trying to do what’s best for her people and her family. Even when she struggles to trust the stars or the path laid out for her, she keeps going, and that inner conflict made her feel so human and compelling.
If you’re an ACOTAR fan and have been searching for your next book boyfriend… just wait. Picture a hero who looks like Geralt from The Witcher, has the quiet, brooding charm of Mr. Darcy, and carries the unwavering morals and honor of Jon Snow. It’s an absolutely irresistible combination.
Geneva Lee has created a story that pulls you in from the first page and refuses to let go. I was completely invested, and now I’m counting down the days until I can hold my finished copy in my hands.
This book was everything. Romantasy? Check. Magical world? Check. Battle and world building? Check. Attractive characters? Check. Would recommend and read again!!!!!
I can absolutely tell that this book series will absolutely be a staple in the fantasy genre. Seriously. I am so hoping for a book two, I mean there has to be… right??? Anywho, make sure to check this out when it’s published on 9/22/26.
I truly enjoyed this book SO very much. Thank you to entangled and red tower for sending me this!!!!
Never before has a book’s cover and end papers so entirely, thoroughly, wholeheartedly screamed ME! I need this tattooed on my body right nOW GIMME GIMME!
I would like to say a massive thank you to Entangled Publishing, Geneva Lee and NetGalley for the ARC of Harbinger! All thoughts are my own.
This was a book I couldn't put down- it's full of political intrigue, rich world building and attractive characters. Not to mention magic and impossible choices. It's the first book I've ever read from Lee and I'm super excited to see what comes next from her writing desk!
Arden is the character I love to read about in books, one who isn't afraid to stay true to herself despite all the outside forces pushing her to change and be a villain. She's constantly trying to do what is best for her and her family. She's gone from a quiet life on her family farm to starting an incredible journey where she is the centre of a prophecy.
In walks Bishop, the mysterious and ruthless protector. The tension and slow-burn between him and Arden absolutely make the pages sizzle. But he's got secrets of his own that are just waiting to be discovered.
The ending has left me desperate for more, because that cannot be the end!
Harbinger by Geneva Lee is published by Entangled Publishing LLC and is hands down my fav read this year. I just wanted to take a peek at the full length book, but hours and hours later I just read the last page and I'm still in wonderland. The worldbuilding is exquisit, the complexity was astounding to me, I fell in inst-love with characters and the outstanding writing. A romantasy after my heart, the story hit alllll my boxes, deserves all the stars.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I am delighted to report that it absolutely lived up to the hype I’d mentally given it.
Geneva Lee's writing is incredibly easy to sink into from the get go. It never feels overly flowery or weighed down by unnecessary prose, allowing the story, characters, and world to shine. It's the kind of writing that pulls you in effortlessly and keeps its claws in you. I’ve not read Geneva’s other books yet either — just for the record, but if this is where her writing is at, I will absolutely be picking them up.
This is also a masterclass in how to introduce world building. Rather than dumping pages of lore on the reader immediately, everything is sprinkled naturally throughout the story where it’s most relevant, allowing the world to unfold piece by piece. It makes discovering its history and lore feel rewarding and memorable rather than overwhelming.
Arden was an absolute joy to follow as an FMC. She's relatable in a way so many romantasy heroines aren't. Yes, she's technically nobility — but she's a farmer, she doesn't have the wealth or privilege people associate with noble status, and she's certainly not some unstoppable warrior from chapter one. She's used to standing behind other people while they fight for her, until she reaches a point where she's simply had enough and decides she wants to learn how to protect herself instead. And that's exactly why her character arc works so well. Her growth feels earned. She gets scared. She makes mistakes. She struggles. She doesn't master everything overnight, and she actively fears the power growing inside her. Watching her slowly become stronger without ever losing those vulnerabilities made her feel like a genuinely believable person rather than another invincible fantasy heroine.
And then there's the yearning. I love a romance built on longing, restraint, and stolen moments, and this book delivers that in abundance. Every interaction felt charged, every moment between them mattered, and because of that, the romance felt completely earned. This is a couple you can't help but root for, and when obstacles arise between them, they feel believable according to the circumstances rather than manufactured purely for drama.
I also have to applaud the portrayal of grief. This is one of the most authentic and emotionally resonant depictions of grief I've read in quite some time. It's messy, complicated, and woven naturally into the characters rather than existing solely to make the reader emotional.
Perhaps the biggest surprise of all: I didn't see the ending coming. Anyone who knows me knows I'm an absolute bloodhound when it comes to spotting plot twists. I usually sniff them out from miles away. This one completely caught me off guard, and I absolutely loved it.
And that ending? I need book two immediately.
Overall, Harbinger feels incredibly fresh. The plot stands confidently on its own, and I honestly can't think of another romantasy I've read recently that feels particularly similar. In a genre where it's becoming increasingly difficult to surprise readers, Geneva Lee has managed exactly that.
Needless to say, my anticipation for book two is now completely unreasonable.
{M/F; one or more consensual sex scenes; longer novel}
The alley scene, when the heroine is accosted by a thief, immediately pulled me into this story. It had danger, humor, and exactly the kind of character interaction that makes me want to keep reading.
The dialogue at times is wonderful. I loved lines like:
“Are you worried that people will question your virtue?” “That doesn’t even rank on the list of things worrying me.” And this made me laugh: “Must not kill him. It will give Lenora more laundry to do.”
The romance delivers plenty of painful pining, protective instincts, and longing. One of the most affecting moments is when the heroine briefly sees herself through his eyes and realizes that, to him, she is neither broken nor cursed. That emotional vulnerability worked beautifully for me. Unfortunately, I have a short attention span for pining and for the prolonged attraction, fighting lessons, and a killer lurking in the background. I tend to lose interest during extended training scenes, so those portions dragged a little. I also had questions about the heroine’s reaction to being burned. How does someone barely notice that?
Still, the chemistry and banter kept me invested. The balcony conversation was particularly effective because it revealed the real obstacle between them: when forced to choose, would he choose her, or would he always choose his oath?
A fun, dramatic read with extended epilogues (two? Kill me now.). with sharp dialogue, strong romantic tension, and characters who are very good at wanting one another while making everything as emotionally complicated as possible. I loved sections of it; I fell asleep during other sections.
This story has familiar tropes in it. If you are in the mood for training with your hot mentor, or pining, for example, you will spend your weekend reading. If not, you might want to skip this.
The most BINGEABLE and absolutely unputadownable read of 2026 so far. 🐦⬛ = ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+♾️
Let’s just say I wasn’t prepared for my kindling. Look, I know 2026 is a stacked year for new romantasy book releases but this just skyrocketed to the top of my list. I may even dare to say that this book will complete with ACOTAR 6, Threshing Day, The Sweetest Fiend, & Rites of the Starling for my favorite new release of the year.
Why should Harbinger move to the top of your endlessly long and overflowing TBR too? Let me try to convince you.
This book had one of the best chapter one hooks that I’ve read since Fourth Wing. It catapulted me straight into a world that was somehow gripping but also enchanting. But the hook didn’t stop there. This book was full throttle to the very bittersweet end. Every trope I love found its way into this book, but yet somehow there were enough twists and turns to make this book feel fresh and unique.
Competing houses with political intrigue ✔️ Found family ✔️ He falls first ✔️ YEARNING AND BANTER ✔️✔️✔️
If you aren’t convinced yet, enter, Bishop, your new book boyfriend OBSESSION. He gives Slade Ravinger energy aka another tortured soul with worship her or die energy. If you know, you know.
The magic system and creatures (for lack of a better expression of what I will only define as an “s being”) are genuinely unique. I love that this didn’t feel like just another fae or vampire read. It will make more sense once you read the story, which you absolutely will do once you finish reading this.
Anyways, this is very much now an extremely long love letter to a book that captured heart. I cannot WAIT for book two. That cliffhanger has me in the worst fit of impatience. Until then, thank you Geneva Lee & Entangled for the opportunity to read the eARC. 🖤
Okay Geneva Lee... I see what you did there lol! Harbinger? Yeah, we need to talk!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️ ARC REVIEW: I received an advance copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review:
The world building, the politics and the magic system (which was so different then what I normally read) was so intriguing (the scion story line ate!!). Every time I thought I knew where this story was going, suddenly went in a completely different direction. It got a little slow moving during the mid parts of the book but I was having a good time. Arden had me in her corner the entire time (I was laughing so much over her inner dialogue lol), then Bishop showed up and it was game over. Golden retriever vibes, broody, protective, morally solid, looks like Geralt? Say less because I love him, ok? The slow burn, the yearning, the banter... it just worked (ateee it up!)! Their relationship was built brick by brick, and it definitely paid off. Taliesin needed WAY more page time because that man showed up just to flirt and stir the pot, and I supported it every single time. Broderic, though? SIR, we need to sit down and have a little chat because WHAT were some of those decisions?? He had me questioning his thought process every single time he opened his mouth. What a wimp he turned out to be, I'm hoping he gets it together in book two. I'm really hoping Isidore finally gets the freedom she's been wanting because she deserves it. Something tells me she's about to stop living by everyone else's expectations, and I can't wait. Also, I’m still salty about Kieren, by the way…and Mrs. Lenora, let me get some of those carbs, you be baking…OHHHH and that ending?? and TWO extended epilogues. I have questions, A LOT OF THEM! I love political fantasy, found family, unique magic, tension that keeps building, and a romance that actually takes its time, can’t wait to see where this series goes!
A huge thank you to Entangled Publishing, Red Tower and Geneva Lee for an earc copy! Appreciate you so much!
Harbinger completely consumed me from the very first page. Geneva Lee has crafted a rich, immersive fantasy filled with political intrigue, dangerous magic, impossible choices, and a romance that had me hooked from start to finish.
Arden is exactly the kind of heroine I love. She’s strong without being arrogant, compassionate without being weak, and determined to stay true to herself even when the entire kingdom seems determined to make her the villain. Watching her go from a quiet life on the family farm to becoming the center of a deadly prophecy was an incredible journey.
And then there’s Bishop…
The mysterious, ruthless protector who should have been her executioner completely stole the show. His quiet intensity, unwavering loyalty, and the secrets he carries made every scene between him and Arden absolutely electric. The tension, the slow burn, the longing… it was perfection.
The world-building is beautifully done without ever feeling overwhelming. Every revelation raised the stakes, and just when I thought I knew where the story was headed, Geneva Lee pulled the rug out from under me. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
If you love romantasy with morally gray heroes, political intrigue, deadly magic, slow-burn romance, found family, and impossible choices, Harbinger deserves a spot at the top of your TBR.
This was an easy five-star read for me, and I already need the next book because that ending left me desperate for more.
Harbinger had me hooked from the very first page. I've read a lot of romantasy lately, but it's been a long time since I've found one that completely consumed me and made it impossible to put down.
Geneva Lee has created something truly special. She masterfully balances richly developed characters, immersive yet approachable world-building, a captivating romance, and an emotional depth that makes every moment resonate. Every aspect of the story feels thoughtfully woven together, making it both compelling and unforgettable.
I truly believe Harbinger will be one of the standout romantasy novels of 2026. Fans of Fourth Wing, ACOTAR, Rites of the Starling, and other highly anticipated releases will find so much to love here. This is a book that deserves to be at the top of every romantasy reader's TBR.
Firstly, thank you to Entangled and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book, I always feel very spoiled when I am gifted with an ARC! Secondly, I am a HUGE Geneva Lee fan, so naturally I was really wanting to read this! I love the Filthy Rich books, and so was super excited when I saw that we were getting a new Romantasy series - GL's urban fantasy novels are so fun, and Harbinger doesn't disappoint. I really love the push and pull between Arden and Bishop, I adore Arden for her "W in T actual F" is happening right now attitude, and then the ongoing discovery we get to go on about Bishop - the who is the guy, what are his motivations and why exactly is he doing this, is perfection as it all unravels. Needless to say I breezed through this book in a couple of nights and LOVED it!
Thank you so much to Entangled Teen for the gifted eARC!
From the moment I picked Harbinger up, I could NOT put it down (kept me up past my bedtime lol).
The magic system was unique, the world-building was incredible, and the character development was *chefs kiss*.
The pacing was on point- I was engaged from page 1 and it never felt rushed, and never dragged. I was completely invested. And the plot twists?! TWISSSSTING. The story continued to surprise me throughout.
Probably my favorite thing was watching Arden and Bishop's relationship develop. Theirs was a true slow burn, and the tension was EVERYTHING. Seeing them grow together was SO GOOD.
I genuinely cannot WAIT to see what happens in book 2!
✨Arden just needs to get through one ceremony to inherit her earth magic and return home. Instead she’s branded an omen of war and half the nobility now wants her dead. Now her only chance of survival lies with the most feared man in Antares, Bishop.
✨I did not want to put this one down! The world building, the FMC, the found family, the mysterious MMC and the slow burn, the magic, the secrets and the reveals were all woven together so perfectly and it just left me wanting more!
This is an easy 6⭐️ read for me and I can’t believe I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from @entangled_publishing @redtowerbooks I want all the special editions!
First, thank you to Entangled Insiders/Red Tower Books for the surprise book mail and the chance to ARC read. All opinions are my own, and the book was sent without any expectations.
That said - this book hooked me from the beginning, and left me eager for the next one. Arden Icaros is a refreshing FMC, not on the search for anything bigger or greater than what she has. In fact, she dreads it.
There is a delicious slow burn/yearning throughout the book and a new magic system to fall in love with. Highly recommend giving this a chance, especially for fans of Fourth Wing and even a hint of Mistborn.
I never wanted it to end, what a way to start a series! I loved the world building, slow burn, and character development. There wasn’t a dull moment, I loved the twists and action scenes.
I enjoyed how the author really thought out and took their time with the world building and the MMC and FMC’s relationship. It wasn’t rushed and felt genuine. I felt all the emotions while reading this, the humor / banter was also top notch.
I will be snatching the next book up as soon as I can, that ending?! 🤯
I would like to say thank you so much to Entangled Publishing and Geneva Lee for the ARC of Harbinger! I loved this book so much and could not put it down. This has been my all time favorite book of the year! Harbinger has all of the things! Banter, all that yearning, characters that make you have all the feels, fantastic world building, magic, and so much more. I love Arden and Bishop and love seeing their growth throughout the book. And oh my goodness, that ending!!! Leaves me wanting more. Would highly recommend!
This book grabbed me from the very first page and never let go.
Arden is the heroine you love and root for, practical and grounded, while Bishop completely stole the show. I could not put this book down with the slow burn romance, politics and constant danger the pages kept turning.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy romantasy, with a brooding protector, high stakes and incredible chemistry.
This book was so refreshing. I could not put it down and at 50% I was literally yelling “what the heck is happening”?!?! I love all of these characters and the found family is perfect. The plot twists were so good, I did not see them coming!! It’s rare to get that excited feeling of reading something fresh and new but still so classic fantasy romance. This series is going to be the next big thing!!
I started this book and quickly became invested in the relationship between the characters. The characters are great especially Bishop who stood out to me. The chemistry is right there as the stakes build. A heroine that you are rooting for and excellent pacing.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
First off, I would love to thank the author and the publishing company for allowing me to read this ARC for free!
I liked the banter between so many of the characters and I love Lenora, she’s’s the best. I think I could use her in my life. Oh! And Hadrian, I want more of his story line. Who doesn’t love a cranky librarian?
Loved reading the spellbinding and mesmerizing paranormal story. When Arden becomes branded, everyone wants her dead, and Bishop comes to her rescue, but Arden is afraid of what she will become. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written full of suspense, intrigue, and captivating characters, and another must read riveting story by the phenomenal author, Geneva Lee.
Wow! The way Harbinger had me in an emotional chokehold! This was such a captivating read. Between the personalities of the characters to the roller coaster of events and emotions. Just wow!
Thank you to Red Tower Books, Entangled Publishing, and Geneva Lee for an ARC of this book!
This book is absolutely phenomenal! I loved every page of it and cannot wait for book 2! Geneva Lee has such a way of giving the reader just enough information to keep you invested while leaving a nice trail of little breadcrumbs for several other sub plots. This book was so different than books I have read recently, it was the perfect palate cleanser! The banter, humor, yearning, and magical elements were so good! I loved the creativity behind the magic and star elements of this book. It was so unique with how Geneva wove things in from the beginning and made it really easy to apply to certain characters and follow the magical elements. The development you experience while reading this book was so fascinating as well. I loved learning more about Arden’s family as well as other characters deep trauma towards their complicated families. I laughed, I cried, I felt ill (🤣) and it was absolutely unputdownable. Thank you Geneva Lee for this masterpiece!!! Infinite stars! ⭐️