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The War Beneath Our Skin
Not yet published
Expected 1 Oct 26Some weapons are born, not made.
Kaylin has spent her life running from her destiny.
Raised in Emylelon after being smuggled out of Arera as a child, she chose the certainty of a bow in her hands over the dangerous magic in her blood. She made herself into a warrior, not a weapon. But Kaylin’s father has never stopped being a threat, and if he finds her, he will kill her before she can become the one person capable of destroying him.
Now dark magic is spreading, war is pressing against Emylelon’s borders, and the power Kaylin has spent years denying is becoming harder to control. To save the only home she has ever known, she may have to embrace the very thing she fears most.
But danger is not the only thing closing in. Kaylin still serves under Arlen, the lieutenant she once trusted with her heart. Whatever lies between them is fractured, unfinished, and far from forgotten—and as war draws nearer, so does the truth neither of them has been able to escape.
Because some fates cannot be outrun.
And some loves refuse to stay buried.
The War Beneath Our Skin is perfect for fans of Faebound, Divine Rivals, and The Hurricane Wars.
Kaylin has spent her life running from her destiny.
Raised in Emylelon after being smuggled out of Arera as a child, she chose the certainty of a bow in her hands over the dangerous magic in her blood. She made herself into a warrior, not a weapon. But Kaylin’s father has never stopped being a threat, and if he finds her, he will kill her before she can become the one person capable of destroying him.
Now dark magic is spreading, war is pressing against Emylelon’s borders, and the power Kaylin has spent years denying is becoming harder to control. To save the only home she has ever known, she may have to embrace the very thing she fears most.
But danger is not the only thing closing in. Kaylin still serves under Arlen, the lieutenant she once trusted with her heart. Whatever lies between them is fractured, unfinished, and far from forgotten—and as war draws nearer, so does the truth neither of them has been able to escape.
Because some fates cannot be outrun.
And some loves refuse to stay buried.
The War Beneath Our Skin is perfect for fans of Faebound, Divine Rivals, and The Hurricane Wars.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 15, 2026
A huge thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this incredible book!
This story completely pulled me in from the start. The battle scenes were epic, the world-building was immersive, and I absolutely loved that Kaylin’s magic—it added such a unique and powerful element to the story.
And can we talk about the trees and roots-
I shouldn’t have laughed as much as I did, but those scenes were unforgettable. 😂
This world is packed with fascinating creatures and races: elves, dwarves, humans, Sildari, Drulics, terrifying monsters, massive spider-like Grisps, and mysterious drias creatures. Every chapter introduced something new and magical.
If you’re a fan of Lord of the Rings-style epic fantasy with a romantasy twist, this one deserves a spot on your TBR. The adventure feels grand, the stakes are high, and the magic is woven beautifully throughout the story.
Kaylin quickly became a character I couldn’t stop rooting for. Watching her step into her power and embrace her role as a potential savior had me turning pages nonstop. And whatever is happening between Kaylin and Arlen? The romantic tension is definitely building, and I am here for it.
The found family in this book is everything. The friendships feel genuine, and Cadeyrn absolutely stole my heart as the ultimate father figure—the kind, protective, dependable character everyone wishes they had in their corner.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Full of action, war, magic, emotional moments, found family, and just the right amount of romantic tension, this was an easy five-star read for me. I can’t wait to see what happens next! 📚✨
This story completely pulled me in from the start. The battle scenes were epic, the world-building was immersive, and I absolutely loved that Kaylin’s magic—it added such a unique and powerful element to the story.
And can we talk about the trees and roots-
I shouldn’t have laughed as much as I did, but those scenes were unforgettable. 😂
This world is packed with fascinating creatures and races: elves, dwarves, humans, Sildari, Drulics, terrifying monsters, massive spider-like Grisps, and mysterious drias creatures. Every chapter introduced something new and magical.
If you’re a fan of Lord of the Rings-style epic fantasy with a romantasy twist, this one deserves a spot on your TBR. The adventure feels grand, the stakes are high, and the magic is woven beautifully throughout the story.
Kaylin quickly became a character I couldn’t stop rooting for. Watching her step into her power and embrace her role as a potential savior had me turning pages nonstop. And whatever is happening between Kaylin and Arlen? The romantic tension is definitely building, and I am here for it.
The found family in this book is everything. The friendships feel genuine, and Cadeyrn absolutely stole my heart as the ultimate father figure—the kind, protective, dependable character everyone wishes they had in their corner.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Full of action, war, magic, emotional moments, found family, and just the right amount of romantic tension, this was an easy five-star read for me. I can’t wait to see what happens next! 📚✨
June 20, 2026
Where to even begin !
Firstly, thank you to the author! I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book.
the goods:
•Overprotective MMC
•Found family
•Long lost princess
•Strong FMC
•2nd chance
•Slow burn
Spice: 2/5
This book gave me STRONG Frieren vibes, with the squad of warriors and the constant bickering. If you aren’t familiar with Frieren, I could also heavily see it being based on Lord of the Rings.
The world building is FAST, which is the ONLY reason I knocked a star off. I felt I was constantly wondering “where are we?” & “who is that?” Granted as the story progresses the puzzle pieces fall into place and you know, but for the first 8-10 chapters I was a little lost and having to reread.
The characters and creatures in this book made it so fascinating and keeps you entranced. Just as you think you’ve read about all of the creatures, the fairies or the spiky spiders are knocking on the door.
The found family in this book just melted my heart, Cadeyrn stepping up and being the father that Kaylin needed warmed me. The squad constantly bickering made them seem like siblings in a way which made things so fun to read.
You’ll absolutely love this book if you’re looking for a LOTR romantasy spin, that’s fast-paced and action packed with tons of character development that will have you on the edge of your seat praying for their safety.
Firstly, thank you to the author! I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC of this book.
the goods:
•Overprotective MMC
•Found family
•Long lost princess
•Strong FMC
•2nd chance
•Slow burn
Spice: 2/5
This book gave me STRONG Frieren vibes, with the squad of warriors and the constant bickering. If you aren’t familiar with Frieren, I could also heavily see it being based on Lord of the Rings.
The world building is FAST, which is the ONLY reason I knocked a star off. I felt I was constantly wondering “where are we?” & “who is that?” Granted as the story progresses the puzzle pieces fall into place and you know, but for the first 8-10 chapters I was a little lost and having to reread.
The characters and creatures in this book made it so fascinating and keeps you entranced. Just as you think you’ve read about all of the creatures, the fairies or the spiky spiders are knocking on the door.
The found family in this book just melted my heart, Cadeyrn stepping up and being the father that Kaylin needed warmed me. The squad constantly bickering made them seem like siblings in a way which made things so fun to read.
You’ll absolutely love this book if you’re looking for a LOTR romantasy spin, that’s fast-paced and action packed with tons of character development that will have you on the edge of your seat praying for their safety.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off - thank you to the author for the eARC! I appreciate the opportunity to read this book.
I think this book had a lot of potential - it had a lot of great elements - long lost princess, elves, second chance romance, epic battles etc.
However, for me, the writing style and plot didn’t work. I found the pacing was too quick and that consequently moments that should have felt epic or had emotional pay-off, didn’t. The plot felt too simple and repetitive, the world didn’t feel epic in scope, and the romance between the two leads didn’t move me and actually kind of gave me the ick. Arlen’s reasoning for breaking Kaylin’s heart and then sleeping around with a bunch of women and essentially rubbing it in Kaylin’s face all while being a dick to her did not make any sense to me and I was shocked when she accepted him back in the space of a single scene after he confessed he still loved her. Like he broke your heart, lied and slept around? It was not romantic at all and just felt really forced. I guess I am just not as forgiving as Kaylin was.
I think this book had a lot of potential - it had a lot of great elements - long lost princess, elves, second chance romance, epic battles etc.
However, for me, the writing style and plot didn’t work. I found the pacing was too quick and that consequently moments that should have felt epic or had emotional pay-off, didn’t. The plot felt too simple and repetitive, the world didn’t feel epic in scope, and the romance between the two leads didn’t move me and actually kind of gave me the ick. Arlen’s reasoning for breaking Kaylin’s heart and then sleeping around with a bunch of women and essentially rubbing it in Kaylin’s face all while being a dick to her did not make any sense to me and I was shocked when she accepted him back in the space of a single scene after he confessed he still loved her. Like he broke your heart, lied and slept around? It was not romantic at all and just felt really forced. I guess I am just not as forgiving as Kaylin was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where to start. This book had me hooked from the word go! It's action packed full of fights, angst and 'just kiss each other' moments.
The world building as as fast paced as Tolkien with zero notes. I cam visualise it throughly and move on without losing interest and wanting to come back.
Conall: the best bestie. He has Kaylin's back in actual fights and bickering between the squad.
Kaylin is a beautifully thought out FMC, she's an angry, stabby girlie that can give as good as she gets. Character Arc and all, her relationship between Arlen and the rest of the squad changes over the book, the dynamic between then all grows and begins to make sense.
Ryul: kiss my ass 😂 you can have your character ARC but seriously. Dude.
Arlen: you got issues on issues but you worked on them. You'll be happy this guy gets through his shit.
All in all, if I could give this book 6,7, 8 stars I would.
Renee you're a beautiful writer. I cant wait to read more of your work ❤️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
The world building as as fast paced as Tolkien with zero notes. I cam visualise it throughly and move on without losing interest and wanting to come back.
Conall: the best bestie. He has Kaylin's back in actual fights and bickering between the squad.
Kaylin is a beautifully thought out FMC, she's an angry, stabby girlie that can give as good as she gets. Character Arc and all, her relationship between Arlen and the rest of the squad changes over the book, the dynamic between then all grows and begins to make sense.
Ryul: kiss my ass 😂 you can have your character ARC but seriously. Dude.
Arlen: you got issues on issues but you worked on them. You'll be happy this guy gets through his shit.
All in all, if I could give this book 6,7, 8 stars I would.
Renee you're a beautiful writer. I cant wait to read more of your work ❤️
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, this has an incredible cover on Kickstarter 💕. That’s what drew me in initially.
But to the story - Kaylin (FMC) , is running from a destiny that is literally poisoning her from the inside out, and Lieutenant Arlen, (MMC) is a fierce elven warrior who shattered her heart years ago. Their second chance romance has a slow burn that flows effortlessly. There’s also political intrigue with power struggles that made this a page turner.
On a side note, I’ll say the story builds fast. There’s a lot in the first few chapters, where I kept getting lost and having to re- read. Def recommend for Lord of the Rings fans 💕
Tropes:
🍃 Second Chance Romance
💜 Slow burn
🍃 Bad ass FMC
💜 Blood magic
🍃 Chosen one
💜 Mutual pining
🍃 Found family
4.5, rounded up for GR.
But to the story - Kaylin (FMC) , is running from a destiny that is literally poisoning her from the inside out, and Lieutenant Arlen, (MMC) is a fierce elven warrior who shattered her heart years ago. Their second chance romance has a slow burn that flows effortlessly. There’s also political intrigue with power struggles that made this a page turner.
On a side note, I’ll say the story builds fast. There’s a lot in the first few chapters, where I kept getting lost and having to re- read. Def recommend for Lord of the Rings fans 💕
Tropes:
🍃 Second Chance Romance
💜 Slow burn
🍃 Bad ass FMC
💜 Blood magic
🍃 Chosen one
💜 Mutual pining
🍃 Found family
4.5, rounded up for GR.
Review of advance copy
I LOVE THIS!!!!!
I whole heartly enjoyed this book, I mean I bee craving elves and that is what I got in this series.
the characters are amazing; the world is enchanting and alluring. the book is so good, it was such a page turner, and I loved every moment of it.
it has high stakes that leave you wondering what is going to happen next, did I mention elves? elves are my favorite magical race so going into this, I knew it would be so good.
it is thrilling and nerve wrecking.
so yes, I highly recommend reading this!!
to the author: thank you so so much for giving me the chance to read your amazing book, I have enjoyed every page. you done amazing with this story.
I whole heartly enjoyed this book, I mean I bee craving elves and that is what I got in this series.
the characters are amazing; the world is enchanting and alluring. the book is so good, it was such a page turner, and I loved every moment of it.
it has high stakes that leave you wondering what is going to happen next, did I mention elves? elves are my favorite magical race so going into this, I knew it would be so good.
it is thrilling and nerve wrecking.
so yes, I highly recommend reading this!!
to the author: thank you so so much for giving me the chance to read your amazing book, I have enjoyed every page. you done amazing with this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
So blessed to be apart of this Advance Read
4 stars-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lord of the Rings-style vibes with magic training.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into this, but it was actually really good. My son absolutely loved the world-building! He wants me to reread about the mountains every night.
Arlen's tenderness with hidden jealousy and Lightning's touch was so genuine with Kaylin. It was so nice watching their story unfold.
It was awesome reading about a badass FMC that can hold her own on the battlefields with swords and arrows.
4 stars-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lord of the Rings-style vibes with magic training.
It took me a couple of chapters to get into this, but it was actually really good. My son absolutely loved the world-building! He wants me to reread about the mountains every night.
Arlen's tenderness with hidden jealousy and Lightning's touch was so genuine with Kaylin. It was so nice watching their story unfold.
It was awesome reading about a badass FMC that can hold her own on the battlefields with swords and arrows.
June 27, 2026
First of all thank you so much Renee for accepting me as an ARC reader and being on the team! 🖤
NOW for the review:
I absolutely loved this book! The yearning from both main characters, the found family and the magic truly amazing! I went through so many emotions reading this book that I had to know what was going to happen next! If you’re looking for yearning, obsession and 2nd chance romance pick this up!
NOW for the review:
I absolutely loved this book! The yearning from both main characters, the found family and the magic truly amazing! I went through so many emotions reading this book that I had to know what was going to happen next! If you’re looking for yearning, obsession and 2nd chance romance pick this up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an advanced reader copy.
Where do I being I absolutely loved this book once I started I couldn’t put it down. Arlen made me feel all of the emotions I wanted to smack him upside the head for being a complete idiot and jerk at times. Kaylin went through so many stages of grief and growth in this story and finally figures out what she needs in the end. It is definitely a found family in the war squad.
Where do I being I absolutely loved this book once I started I couldn’t put it down. Arlen made me feel all of the emotions I wanted to smack him upside the head for being a complete idiot and jerk at times. Kaylin went through so many stages of grief and growth in this story and finally figures out what she needs in the end. It is definitely a found family in the war squad.
June 29, 2026
I enjoyed this book a lot! I liked the divide between magic and combat, and appreciated Kaylin’s struggle with her magical destiny.
Review of advance copy
This is a great book very fun to read.
Review of advance copy
This is the best Romantasy of 2026. I luv the story of these 2 characters, the war between them, and their feelings for one another. I Definitely recommend this book if u luv Elves, War, and Love!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bloodmagic, a badass fmc and a mmc that will have you wanting to pull your hair out screaming telll her already! If you love a good slow burn this book is definitely for you. Found family has become one of my favorite tropes. Conall is definitely one of my favorite characters, this book was so good and had a lot of action it. The fighting scenes were so good, and the world building was amazing!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews