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Veil of Deceit: a heist romantasy
Not yet published
Expected 30 Jun 26Official cover and blurb coming soon but here's what you have to look forward to...Royal politicsThe Seven Havens world you know + loveSlow burn Emotional rollercoaster
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 30, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 22, 2026
Overview:
Language 🤐: None
Romance ❤️🔥: LV 1 kisses on cheeks only this far (I mean Cas and Wren do kiss to but that’s not descriptive, cuz it’s from others POV)
Violence ⚔️: On page sword fights not graphic, talk of pass kills again lightly descriptive
⚠️Grief, Loss of parents mentioned, author has content warnings at the beginning of the book⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Dual POV
- Arranged Marriage
- Dangerous Voyage/Mission
- Secrets
- One Bed
- Forced Proximity
- She wears his clothes
- Duels one another
- All the teasing and pushing one another’s buttons
- He saves her
- He falls first
- Protective MMC
- Strong Untrusting FMC
- Nicknames
My Thoughts:
6⭐️
OH MY GOODNESS THAT ENDING 😱😱😱 That was SO RUDE to end it like that (but also I love a good cliffhanger that leaves me needing the next book yesterday)!!
You don’t need to read the Obsidian Academy Duet before this one but I think you will miss out on so much if you haven’t! So I highly highly recommend reading those before starting this book!
I absolutely loved this story! I adored Finn in the Obsidian Academy and was so excited to get his story. I was not disappointed at all! This book was such a ride!
I felt for Finn and Lucianna from the beginning of this story! Man does this story play with my heart strings for these two as they face a marriage neither of them asked for but they are both trying to figure out how to make it work in some way.
Lucianna is such a wonderful fiery character who has so much she is grappling with and trying to work through. I felt for her even when I was frustrated with her! (Had to remind myself she doesn’t know Finn like we do) I loved her character and the banter her and Finn developed throughout the story!
Finn oh sweet Finn how much more I came to love his character throughout this story! Seeing him grapple with his own struggles inside this marriage and his gift causing him to wonder as well. I’m just so excited for this next book to learn more about both of these two. I definitely love Finn even more than I did before which is saying something!
You guys the banter and teasing is top notch in this story! The nickname 🤩, the sword fight, the several other occasions when they just can not help but push each other to the limit of their patience 😅
Seeing a bit of Cas a Wren was also the cherry on top of this story! I loved so much seeing their sweet marriage and interactions with Finn and the rest of the crew. All the crew members are wonderful and I’m excited to get to know them even better.
I love this story and am so ready for the next step in this crazy adventure! The whole story was an amazing ride but especially those last few chapters were quite the rollercoaster! I can’t recommend this book enough!
I thank the author for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! 😊
Language 🤐: None
Romance ❤️🔥: LV 1 kisses on cheeks only this far (I mean Cas and Wren do kiss to but that’s not descriptive, cuz it’s from others POV)
Violence ⚔️: On page sword fights not graphic, talk of pass kills again lightly descriptive
⚠️Grief, Loss of parents mentioned, author has content warnings at the beginning of the book⚠️
Tropes/Micro tropes
- Dual POV
- Arranged Marriage
- Dangerous Voyage/Mission
- Secrets
- One Bed
- Forced Proximity
- She wears his clothes
- Duels one another
- All the teasing and pushing one another’s buttons
- He saves her
- He falls first
- Protective MMC
- Strong Untrusting FMC
- Nicknames
My Thoughts:
6⭐️
OH MY GOODNESS THAT ENDING 😱😱😱 That was SO RUDE to end it like that (but also I love a good cliffhanger that leaves me needing the next book yesterday)!!
You don’t need to read the Obsidian Academy Duet before this one but I think you will miss out on so much if you haven’t! So I highly highly recommend reading those before starting this book!
I absolutely loved this story! I adored Finn in the Obsidian Academy and was so excited to get his story. I was not disappointed at all! This book was such a ride!
I felt for Finn and Lucianna from the beginning of this story! Man does this story play with my heart strings for these two as they face a marriage neither of them asked for but they are both trying to figure out how to make it work in some way.
Lucianna is such a wonderful fiery character who has so much she is grappling with and trying to work through. I felt for her even when I was frustrated with her! (Had to remind myself she doesn’t know Finn like we do) I loved her character and the banter her and Finn developed throughout the story!
Finn oh sweet Finn how much more I came to love his character throughout this story! Seeing him grapple with his own struggles inside this marriage and his gift causing him to wonder as well. I’m just so excited for this next book to learn more about both of these two. I definitely love Finn even more than I did before which is saying something!
You guys the banter and teasing is top notch in this story! The nickname 🤩, the sword fight, the several other occasions when they just can not help but push each other to the limit of their patience 😅
Seeing a bit of Cas a Wren was also the cherry on top of this story! I loved so much seeing their sweet marriage and interactions with Finn and the rest of the crew. All the crew members are wonderful and I’m excited to get to know them even better.
I love this story and am so ready for the next step in this crazy adventure! The whole story was an amazing ride but especially those last few chapters were quite the rollercoaster! I can’t recommend this book enough!
I thank the author for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own! 😊
Read
June 17, 2026I had the privilege of proofreading this one, and it was AMAZING! If you loved Ocean of Ink and Tides of Secrets, Veil of Deceit will not disappoint.
Want to Read
April 12, 2026EK! So excited!!😍🥳✨
June 19, 2026
O. M. G. I am at a loss for words. I literally stared into space contemplating my life decisions for ten freaking minutes after finishing this book. You are MEAN for making the book end in that cliffhanger 😭 if you haven’t already, GO READ THIS BOOK. The characters and tension are perfect and i love how developed their personalities and struggles are. It’s so amazing to watch them slowly begin to trust each other more 💜 100/10!!
June 24, 2026
I received an advanced copy from the author in exchange for my honest review here.
Oh my goodness…I finished this book last night and I cannot stop thinking about this story and these characters! This book is so good! Fantasy/Romantasy is not my go-to or preferred genre, and arranged marriage is not a favorite trope of mine; but Veil of Deceit made me rethink my preferences. It’s a gripping read that kept my attention—I had to know what would happen next (which makes the cliffhanger ending hard to swallow)! Seriously, this book has something for everyone!
The story opens with Finn and Lucianna finding themselves in an arranged marriage against their wills. This arranged marriage is different from most because it’s part of a larger plan (subplot?) to create an elite, gifted team that goes on a high-stakes mission to save the Seven Kingdoms. The tension between Finn and Lucianna plays out as they navigate their marriage, learning about each other and struggling against themselves. I enjoyed their banter and their relationship struggles feel real. I cheered for them, wanted to shake each of them a few times, and most of all can’t wait to see how they continue to grow into themselves and in their relationship. I could completely relate to Lucianna trying to protect herself and her freedom of choice; she resonated with me and I want to know her better! Finn’s internal struggles to be his Gift or be himself, and how that impacts his day to day feelings was an enjoyable surprise to me— I love that Finn has some real darkness to deal with and he’s not just a typical charmer/ golden retriever typecast.
While Finn and Lucianna are the main characters of the story, there are several lovable side characters. The rest of the crew play an integral role and develop dynamic personalities. I honestly felt like part of the crew at times! I really like how the story builds around the crew even as it centers on Finn and Lucianna. There is so much banter, wit, action and love built into this story—it flies by and leaves you wanting more.
You’ll love reading about Finn, Lucianna, and the rest of the crew if you like:
⚔️ action and adventure (without gory detail)
covert missions for mysterious treasure
🥷spies, thieves, warriors and alchemists as found family
❤️🔥 slow burn romance with lots of longing
🪄some fantasy elements that enhance the characters and storyline
A few things to note:
This is the first of a trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. Knowing I wouldn’t get my resolved ending helped me stomach the end of the book…but waiting a year for more will be the real test of will! (Yes, it really is that good!)
This is part of a fantasy world introduced in The Obsidian Academy duet. You can absolutely enjoy this as is, but having read the other books makes this read very enjoyable! (And spoils some major plot points of the other books, if you read them out of order)
I am not an avid romantasy reader, and generally have a hard time understanding mythical hierarchies, rules, graphic post apocalyptic worlds, etc. This book has fantasy elements that are easy to understand (for ppl like me) and enhances the story. If you haven’t enjoyed this genre in the past, or haven’t tried it yet, I’d highly recommend you try this book! It’s a good story and a great read.
Oh my goodness…I finished this book last night and I cannot stop thinking about this story and these characters! This book is so good! Fantasy/Romantasy is not my go-to or preferred genre, and arranged marriage is not a favorite trope of mine; but Veil of Deceit made me rethink my preferences. It’s a gripping read that kept my attention—I had to know what would happen next (which makes the cliffhanger ending hard to swallow)! Seriously, this book has something for everyone!
The story opens with Finn and Lucianna finding themselves in an arranged marriage against their wills. This arranged marriage is different from most because it’s part of a larger plan (subplot?) to create an elite, gifted team that goes on a high-stakes mission to save the Seven Kingdoms. The tension between Finn and Lucianna plays out as they navigate their marriage, learning about each other and struggling against themselves. I enjoyed their banter and their relationship struggles feel real. I cheered for them, wanted to shake each of them a few times, and most of all can’t wait to see how they continue to grow into themselves and in their relationship. I could completely relate to Lucianna trying to protect herself and her freedom of choice; she resonated with me and I want to know her better! Finn’s internal struggles to be his Gift or be himself, and how that impacts his day to day feelings was an enjoyable surprise to me— I love that Finn has some real darkness to deal with and he’s not just a typical charmer/ golden retriever typecast.
While Finn and Lucianna are the main characters of the story, there are several lovable side characters. The rest of the crew play an integral role and develop dynamic personalities. I honestly felt like part of the crew at times! I really like how the story builds around the crew even as it centers on Finn and Lucianna. There is so much banter, wit, action and love built into this story—it flies by and leaves you wanting more.
You’ll love reading about Finn, Lucianna, and the rest of the crew if you like:
⚔️ action and adventure (without gory detail)
covert missions for mysterious treasure
🥷spies, thieves, warriors and alchemists as found family
❤️🔥 slow burn romance with lots of longing
🪄some fantasy elements that enhance the characters and storyline
A few things to note:
This is the first of a trilogy and ends on a cliffhanger. Knowing I wouldn’t get my resolved ending helped me stomach the end of the book…but waiting a year for more will be the real test of will! (Yes, it really is that good!)
This is part of a fantasy world introduced in The Obsidian Academy duet. You can absolutely enjoy this as is, but having read the other books makes this read very enjoyable! (And spoils some major plot points of the other books, if you read them out of order)
I am not an avid romantasy reader, and generally have a hard time understanding mythical hierarchies, rules, graphic post apocalyptic worlds, etc. This book has fantasy elements that are easy to understand (for ppl like me) and enhances the story. If you haven’t enjoyed this genre in the past, or haven’t tried it yet, I’d highly recommend you try this book! It’s a good story and a great read.
June 25, 2026
“I am a man of my word,” he growled. “I will have no other. I am yours and you are mine.”
This arranged marriage story has a Pirates of the Caribbean meets Ocean’s Eleven vibe. I was hooked from the first page to the last. Danger, suspense, yearning, and tension abound. And that ending!!! 😳 It’s going to be a hard wait for book two.
Finn! Now, I knew I loved Finn from the Obsidian Academy duology, but now I LOVE him even more. Finn is tender-hearted, charismatic, and full of self-doubt. My heart broke for him multiple times, especially when he donned his mask of happiness. One of his greatest desires is to be loved and accepted for himself, I can’t wait for the fulfillment of that desire. I loved that he was slightly possessive of Lucianna! I loved that even though she didn’t trust him and hurt him he still treated her with gentleness, care, and respect. Lucianna is wary, brave, and full of secrets. I enjoyed seeing her gift and I am excited to see how she uses it in the future. She has a strong mistrust of Finn. Her internal struggle between her feelings and that mistrust was intense. I loved the chemistry between Finn and Lucianna. I loved their banter and teasing and the way they can rile each other up. And their duel, amazing! I honestly am so excited to see how their relationship develops as they learn to understand and accept one another.
There is an amazing supporting cast of characters, each adding to the crew and story perfectly. Wren and Castien! I loved seeing Wren and Cas as a married couple. I especially loved their love and support of Finn. The three of them have a fantastic bond!
A few more quotes:
He pretended to be the ringmaster, but in reality, he was walking a tightrope.
“I’m going to do much more than glare at you if you don’t show me where we’re supposed to go,” she groused. “Don’t tempt me with sweet promises, little thief. I can’t be distracted from the job at hand.” “The only temptation present between us is the one to kill you in your sleep.”
“Is that your way of saying I was impressive?” “If you want to impress me, you’re going to have to try harder than that,” she replied. He grinned. “Noted.”
“You speak as though you know me intimately,” he growled. Her breath caught at his choice of words. “But you do not. If you did, you would understand that I have spent the entirety of our marriage holding back, despite how regularly you test my limits.”
Note: This is book one in a new series. It is set in the same world as the Obsidian Academy duology. If you haven’t read that duology there will be pretty major spoilers.
This complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
This arranged marriage story has a Pirates of the Caribbean meets Ocean’s Eleven vibe. I was hooked from the first page to the last. Danger, suspense, yearning, and tension abound. And that ending!!! 😳 It’s going to be a hard wait for book two.
Finn! Now, I knew I loved Finn from the Obsidian Academy duology, but now I LOVE him even more. Finn is tender-hearted, charismatic, and full of self-doubt. My heart broke for him multiple times, especially when he donned his mask of happiness. One of his greatest desires is to be loved and accepted for himself, I can’t wait for the fulfillment of that desire. I loved that he was slightly possessive of Lucianna! I loved that even though she didn’t trust him and hurt him he still treated her with gentleness, care, and respect. Lucianna is wary, brave, and full of secrets. I enjoyed seeing her gift and I am excited to see how she uses it in the future. She has a strong mistrust of Finn. Her internal struggle between her feelings and that mistrust was intense. I loved the chemistry between Finn and Lucianna. I loved their banter and teasing and the way they can rile each other up. And their duel, amazing! I honestly am so excited to see how their relationship develops as they learn to understand and accept one another.
There is an amazing supporting cast of characters, each adding to the crew and story perfectly. Wren and Castien! I loved seeing Wren and Cas as a married couple. I especially loved their love and support of Finn. The three of them have a fantastic bond!
A few more quotes:
He pretended to be the ringmaster, but in reality, he was walking a tightrope.
“I’m going to do much more than glare at you if you don’t show me where we’re supposed to go,” she groused. “Don’t tempt me with sweet promises, little thief. I can’t be distracted from the job at hand.” “The only temptation present between us is the one to kill you in your sleep.”
“Is that your way of saying I was impressive?” “If you want to impress me, you’re going to have to try harder than that,” she replied. He grinned. “Noted.”
“You speak as though you know me intimately,” he growled. Her breath caught at his choice of words. “But you do not. If you did, you would understand that I have spent the entirety of our marriage holding back, despite how regularly you test my limits.”
Note: This is book one in a new series. It is set in the same world as the Obsidian Academy duology. If you haven’t read that duology there will be pretty major spoilers.
This complimentary copy was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
June 21, 2026
Oh my goodness, this book was everything I had hoped it to be and more! I received an ARC and was incredible thankful because I don’t think I could’ve waited two more weeks for the book to officially come out haha.
The world Conwell has built is so fascinating and I am always left hungry for more. The monsters? The powers? The unique characters. I absolutely loved getting to know our dearest Finnick more, he is one of my favorite MMCs possibly out there.
Conwell is a master storyteller and has gotten the art of a true slow burn DOWN. The small romantic bits we got were incredible and had me kicking my feet. I can not wait to see Lucianna & Finnick’s relationship take sail.
Also, all the Wren & Castien moment had my heart soaring. They are the sweetest! Their story/relationship will forever be one of my favorites.
The ending was brutal so I think I speak for many that we need book two as soon as possible 🫠 but all in all this was SUCH an incredible joyful read. I loved every second of it and was not bored once. Every moment had me eager to turn the page to see what happened next.
The world Conwell has built is so fascinating and I am always left hungry for more. The monsters? The powers? The unique characters. I absolutely loved getting to know our dearest Finnick more, he is one of my favorite MMCs possibly out there.
Conwell is a master storyteller and has gotten the art of a true slow burn DOWN. The small romantic bits we got were incredible and had me kicking my feet. I can not wait to see Lucianna & Finnick’s relationship take sail.
Also, all the Wren & Castien moment had my heart soaring. They are the sweetest! Their story/relationship will forever be one of my favorites.
The ending was brutal so I think I speak for many that we need book two as soon as possible 🫠 but all in all this was SUCH an incredible joyful read. I loved every second of it and was not bored once. Every moment had me eager to turn the page to see what happened next.
June 27, 2026
||⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️||
What a ride that was! 🥴
I had a pretty good time reading this book! It was incredibly atmospheric, easy to imagine, and the storytelling made it seem like I was on the ship with them! The nautical vibes are 😮💨🤌🏻 TOP TIER ⚓️
Our two MC’s are Finn and Lucianna, along with a side cast of characters of old friends and new. I really enjoyed getting to read about Wren and Castien here and there, and the new friends were a joy to get to know as well! I need more Petals! 🌸💪🏼
Finn is obviously as charming as ever in this book, and such a joy to read more of, but the DEPTH at which we get to go with him was amazing. Experiencing the dynamic realness of his struggles and inner thoughts made me emotional! LOVE HIM.
Although Lucianna never grew on me, Im excited to see where the story goes in the second book!
And of course a huge and genuine thank you to Annah for the ARC. Its such a pleasure to read your books! ❤️
June 20, 2026
This book made me so giddy! 🤭
This book made me laugh, blush, smile (a lot) and kick my feet.😁 It’s a no spice romantasy with a witty mmc and a stubborn fmc.
🗒️If you love : Arranged marriage, family bonds, banter, high stakes, enemies to lovers, and slow burn love. Then definitely pick this read up! 📚🔥
Some of my favorite quotes😍:
"Don't worry, Mrs. Valengard, I'm all yours," he drolled.
"I'm a little tired, but if you ask nicely, I might be inclined to put on a show for you," he said with a smirk. "You're afforded such privileges, being that you're my wife."
"Pirates are coming to raid our ship, and you are asking to help me dress?" she seethed.
Is it a clean read?🤔
🌶️No spice
🫢No language
♥️No lgbtq characters
I was so very lucky to be an arc reader for “Veil of Deception” Thank you so much A.R. Conwell! 😊
This review is all my honest thoughts and opinions! 📚♥️
This book made me laugh, blush, smile (a lot) and kick my feet.😁 It’s a no spice romantasy with a witty mmc and a stubborn fmc.
🗒️If you love : Arranged marriage, family bonds, banter, high stakes, enemies to lovers, and slow burn love. Then definitely pick this read up! 📚🔥
Some of my favorite quotes😍:
"Don't worry, Mrs. Valengard, I'm all yours," he drolled.
"I'm a little tired, but if you ask nicely, I might be inclined to put on a show for you," he said with a smirk. "You're afforded such privileges, being that you're my wife."
"Pirates are coming to raid our ship, and you are asking to help me dress?" she seethed.
Is it a clean read?🤔
🌶️No spice
🫢No language
♥️No lgbtq characters
I was so very lucky to be an arc reader for “Veil of Deception” Thank you so much A.R. Conwell! 😊
This review is all my honest thoughts and opinions! 📚♥️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨ “I’m going to do much more than glare at you if you don’t show me where we’re supposed to go,” she groused. “Don’t tempt me with sweet promises, little thief. I can’t be distracted from the job at hand.” ✨️
✨️She held her blade to his throat. He grinned. Mischief glittered in his sapphire gaze. Lucianna tightened her hold. “Let this be a warning: insult my capabilities again, and you’ll find yourself here once more. Only, I won’t hold back.” His smile widened. “Promise?”✨️
✨️ Finnick Valengard didn’t seem afraid of anything. She was certain the man would smile at death itself. ✨️
~
📖 Summary:
"Come now, don't tell me you're afraid, little thief."
When a powerful magical orb appears on the world's most dangerous island, a crew is assembled to steal it before the ruthless King of Grimhaven can claim its power. Among them are Finnick Valengard and Lucianna Morrowe, newlyweds bound by an arranged political marriage who can barely stand each other. As they embark on a dangerous heist, their reluctant partnership begins to evolve into something more.
~
The first book in the Hopelessly Bound Trilogy, featuring a slow-burn, no-spice romantasy filled with adventure, danger, and high stakes.
~
💭 My Thoughts 💭
WE. ARE. SOOOOOOO. BACKKKKKK. AND THIS TIME WE GET FINNICK VALENGARD?!?!?! OH THIS WAS A PERSONAL GIFT TO ME. 😮💨🤚💛
Can we PLEASE take a moment to appreciate MRS. A.R. CONWELL because this amazing woman has genuinely NEVER disappointed me. Every single book she writes somehow gets even better ✨
THE IMAGERY?!?!?!?! GOODBYE 😭💕
I wasn't reading anymore—I was ON THAT SHIP.
The crashing waves, the salty air, the endless ocean, the danger lurking around every corner... the way she describes everything is so cinematic that I forgot I was sitting on my couch.
AND NOW...
FINNICK.
VALENGARD. 😮💨🫴💕
If you've read the ‘Ocean of Ink’ duology, then you KNOW this man has always had charm...
BUT THIS?!?!?! THIS WAS HIM OPERATING AT 1,000%.
I genuinely don't think there was a SINGLE conversation between Finnick and Lucianna where this man wasn't flirting, teasing, smiling, or saying something that had me pausing the book to recover. 😭🤚
THE QUOTES?!?!?!
SIR, WHO WRITES YOUR DIALOGUE?!
Because every other sentence had me highlighting, giggling, kicking my feet, staring at the ceiling, and whispering, "There's no way he just said that…”
THE BANTER?!?!?!
TOP TIER.
THE TENSION?!?!?!
ABSOLUTELY UNBEARABLE.
THE CHEMISTRY?!?!?!
I COULD'VE CUT IT WITH A SPOON.
Forget a knife—we were past that. 😭🔥
And can we PLEASE normalize giving blond MMCs the appreciation they deserve because Finnick 👏💛
I GASPED. I SWOONED. I LAUGHED. I CLUTCHED MY CHEST. I HAD TO PUT MY KINDLE DOWN MULTIPLE TIMES JUST TO STARE AT A WALL AND PROCESS THE DAMAGE THIS MAN WAS DOING TO MY HEART. 😭🫠💕
AND THEN...
I TURNED THE FINAL PAGE.
...
A.R. CONWELL.
BE SO SERIOUS RIGHT NOW. 🚨😭
THAT CLIFFHANGER?!?!?!
EXCUSE ME?!?!?!
WHO APPROVED THAT???
I literally stared at the words waiting for another chapter to magically appear because THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO WAY YOU CAN END A BOOK LIKE THAT. 😭📚
So yeah... if anyone needs me, I'll just be impatiently waiting for Book 2 while emotionally attached to a charming blond man who goes by the name: Finnick Valengard.
~
Tropes:
♡Enemies to Lovers
♡Arranged Marriage
♡Pirate Ship Adventure
♡Heist
♡Slow Burn
♡Charming MMC
♡Cold/Stone-Hearted FMC
♡Forced Proximity
♡Political Intrigue
♡Fantasy Romance
~
QUOTES THAT I ADORED:
✨️“If you’d like, I can turn my head, so you aren’t limited to admiring merely my profile,” Finnick mused. His voice was rough with disuse. ✨️
✨️ Finn raked a hand through his hair. Lucianna’s gaze tracked the movement. “When you look at me like that, I feel as though I’m the victor,” he rasped. Lucianna rolled her eyes and stepped around him. ✨️
✨️“Tides, you’re going to be the death of me, aren’t you?” “What a beautiful way to die, though,” he murmured. ✨️
✨️“Soldiers are made of scars, Maris,” Finn’s father had replied. “It is evidence of their survival.”✨️
~
Stay Blessed everyone 🙏 ✨️
✨️She held her blade to his throat. He grinned. Mischief glittered in his sapphire gaze. Lucianna tightened her hold. “Let this be a warning: insult my capabilities again, and you’ll find yourself here once more. Only, I won’t hold back.” His smile widened. “Promise?”✨️
✨️ Finnick Valengard didn’t seem afraid of anything. She was certain the man would smile at death itself. ✨️
~
📖 Summary:
"Come now, don't tell me you're afraid, little thief."
When a powerful magical orb appears on the world's most dangerous island, a crew is assembled to steal it before the ruthless King of Grimhaven can claim its power. Among them are Finnick Valengard and Lucianna Morrowe, newlyweds bound by an arranged political marriage who can barely stand each other. As they embark on a dangerous heist, their reluctant partnership begins to evolve into something more.
~
The first book in the Hopelessly Bound Trilogy, featuring a slow-burn, no-spice romantasy filled with adventure, danger, and high stakes.
~
💭 My Thoughts 💭
WE. ARE. SOOOOOOO. BACKKKKKK. AND THIS TIME WE GET FINNICK VALENGARD?!?!?! OH THIS WAS A PERSONAL GIFT TO ME. 😮💨🤚💛
Can we PLEASE take a moment to appreciate MRS. A.R. CONWELL because this amazing woman has genuinely NEVER disappointed me. Every single book she writes somehow gets even better ✨
THE IMAGERY?!?!?!?! GOODBYE 😭💕
I wasn't reading anymore—I was ON THAT SHIP.
The crashing waves, the salty air, the endless ocean, the danger lurking around every corner... the way she describes everything is so cinematic that I forgot I was sitting on my couch.
AND NOW...
FINNICK.
VALENGARD. 😮💨🫴💕
If you've read the ‘Ocean of Ink’ duology, then you KNOW this man has always had charm...
BUT THIS?!?!?! THIS WAS HIM OPERATING AT 1,000%.
I genuinely don't think there was a SINGLE conversation between Finnick and Lucianna where this man wasn't flirting, teasing, smiling, or saying something that had me pausing the book to recover. 😭🤚
THE QUOTES?!?!?!
SIR, WHO WRITES YOUR DIALOGUE?!
Because every other sentence had me highlighting, giggling, kicking my feet, staring at the ceiling, and whispering, "There's no way he just said that…”
THE BANTER?!?!?!
TOP TIER.
THE TENSION?!?!?!
ABSOLUTELY UNBEARABLE.
THE CHEMISTRY?!?!?!
I COULD'VE CUT IT WITH A SPOON.
Forget a knife—we were past that. 😭🔥
And can we PLEASE normalize giving blond MMCs the appreciation they deserve because Finnick 👏💛
I GASPED. I SWOONED. I LAUGHED. I CLUTCHED MY CHEST. I HAD TO PUT MY KINDLE DOWN MULTIPLE TIMES JUST TO STARE AT A WALL AND PROCESS THE DAMAGE THIS MAN WAS DOING TO MY HEART. 😭🫠💕
AND THEN...
I TURNED THE FINAL PAGE.
...
A.R. CONWELL.
BE SO SERIOUS RIGHT NOW. 🚨😭
THAT CLIFFHANGER?!?!?!
EXCUSE ME?!?!?!
WHO APPROVED THAT???
I literally stared at the words waiting for another chapter to magically appear because THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO WAY YOU CAN END A BOOK LIKE THAT. 😭📚
So yeah... if anyone needs me, I'll just be impatiently waiting for Book 2 while emotionally attached to a charming blond man who goes by the name: Finnick Valengard.
~
Tropes:
♡Enemies to Lovers
♡Arranged Marriage
♡Pirate Ship Adventure
♡Heist
♡Slow Burn
♡Charming MMC
♡Cold/Stone-Hearted FMC
♡Forced Proximity
♡Political Intrigue
♡Fantasy Romance
~
QUOTES THAT I ADORED:
✨️“If you’d like, I can turn my head, so you aren’t limited to admiring merely my profile,” Finnick mused. His voice was rough with disuse. ✨️
✨️ Finn raked a hand through his hair. Lucianna’s gaze tracked the movement. “When you look at me like that, I feel as though I’m the victor,” he rasped. Lucianna rolled her eyes and stepped around him. ✨️
✨️“Tides, you’re going to be the death of me, aren’t you?” “What a beautiful way to die, though,” he murmured. ✨️
✨️“Soldiers are made of scars, Maris,” Finn’s father had replied. “It is evidence of their survival.”✨️
~
Stay Blessed everyone 🙏 ✨️
![Profile Image for ezra [semi ia].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1781464154i/177253884._UY200_CR33,0,200,200_.jpg)
Review of advance copy received from Author
“𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮, 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖 𝙩𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚.”⊹˚.‧⁺
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
dude… this book. i literally threw my kindle just now because that ENDING?! AGHHHH! i need the next book right nowwww!!!!
annah, don’t be surprised if i send an email begging for the next book :)
hehe, jk.
kinda…
anyways, to wrap up the ranting above—i may or may not have just finished this book, like, two seconds ago🧌—and get to the more ‘formal’ review… in hindsight, this book is truly a masterpiece, and you need to buy it asap!!
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊ characters ˚.⋆⁺₊
i absolutely adored finn in the obsidian academy duet—minus me constantly wondering if he was the murderer and desperately hoping he wasn’t💀—and he was just as (if not more) funny and swoon worthy as he was in the duology. we were fed guys🤭
and lucianna was amazing!! seriously such a good character and i can’t wait to see the rest of her and Finn’s story in the future! adored her!! such a girlboss fr.
also their relationship was so sweet. i can’t explain how excited i am for the next book to see their relationship grow. and also, WREN AND CASTIEN?! AHH. SO CUTE GUYS.
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊ plot ˚.⋆⁺₊
this world. oh my gosh. it’s just so cool?! the monsters, the gifts, the different cultures and islands. ack i can’t get enough of it!! im excited to see more of it in the next book as well. i just know it’s about to be awesome!! and also this was such a fast paced plot. like, props to annah because i could not put this one downn! i stayed up till 2am reading half of the book because it was too amazing and wonderful for me to put away, haha!
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊wrap up˚.⋆⁺₊
okay, please read this book. when it comes out in a few days, READ IT. I BEG YOU! and i hope that you enjoy it as much as i did!!
thank you a thousand times to a.r. conwell and her team for giving me the opportunity to read this book and experience lucianna and finn’s story! i love you guys 💕
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
dude… this book. i literally threw my kindle just now because that ENDING?! AGHHHH! i need the next book right nowwww!!!!
annah, don’t be surprised if i send an email begging for the next book :)
hehe, jk.
kinda…
anyways, to wrap up the ranting above—i may or may not have just finished this book, like, two seconds ago🧌—and get to the more ‘formal’ review… in hindsight, this book is truly a masterpiece, and you need to buy it asap!!
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊ characters ˚.⋆⁺₊
i absolutely adored finn in the obsidian academy duet—minus me constantly wondering if he was the murderer and desperately hoping he wasn’t💀—and he was just as (if not more) funny and swoon worthy as he was in the duology. we were fed guys🤭
and lucianna was amazing!! seriously such a good character and i can’t wait to see the rest of her and Finn’s story in the future! adored her!! such a girlboss fr.
also their relationship was so sweet. i can’t explain how excited i am for the next book to see their relationship grow. and also, WREN AND CASTIEN?! AHH. SO CUTE GUYS.
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊ plot ˚.⋆⁺₊
this world. oh my gosh. it’s just so cool?! the monsters, the gifts, the different cultures and islands. ack i can’t get enough of it!! im excited to see more of it in the next book as well. i just know it’s about to be awesome!! and also this was such a fast paced plot. like, props to annah because i could not put this one downn! i stayed up till 2am reading half of the book because it was too amazing and wonderful for me to put away, haha!
✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ ⋅.˳˳.⋅ॱ˙ ⠀✧ 𓏲˚
˚.⋆⁺₊wrap up˚.⋆⁺₊
okay, please read this book. when it comes out in a few days, READ IT. I BEG YOU! and i hope that you enjoy it as much as i did!!
thank you a thousand times to a.r. conwell and her team for giving me the opportunity to read this book and experience lucianna and finn’s story! i love you guys 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a well written story with amazing dialogue, flawed but lovable characters and a fantastic storyline!! AR did a wonderful job with the story!
Oh darling Finn… I really enjoyed his character in Oceans of Ink so was extremely excited to hear where his story takes off to and it’s off to a great start!
Finn is forced into an arranged marriage with Lucianna, a thief with the ability to change her voice. They embark on a journey with Wren and Castien (plus a few more side characters) to steal an item from the most ruthless country, that if in the wrong hands would be devastating. Lucianna is introduced into the story as a feisty, aloof character who struggles with trust and friendship. The story follows the cast of characters as they sail towards their heist destination.
My one qualm with the story is that it felt like it wasn’t finished… and I know I know it’s the first book in a series. But not a whole lot happened in the story. They’re on their way to a heist and they haven’t even reach the destination when the story abruptly ends. I just felt like it was cut at a weird stopping point which is why I gave it a 4.5 rather than a 5. But Im excited to continue the series and the adventures these characters embark on!
If you love banter and characters who are fighting their feelings, this is the book for you! I promise you will fall for Finn!
While you don’t need to read Oceans of Ink and Tides of Secrets before reading this book, it helps create a better depth of understanding the characters.
Tropes:
✨arranged marriage
✨hidden identity (voice)
✨enemies to more
✨banter
YA fantasy
⚠️content
-kisses only
-sword fight/battle where they talk flippantly about death and the number of kills each has
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Oh darling Finn… I really enjoyed his character in Oceans of Ink so was extremely excited to hear where his story takes off to and it’s off to a great start!
Finn is forced into an arranged marriage with Lucianna, a thief with the ability to change her voice. They embark on a journey with Wren and Castien (plus a few more side characters) to steal an item from the most ruthless country, that if in the wrong hands would be devastating. Lucianna is introduced into the story as a feisty, aloof character who struggles with trust and friendship. The story follows the cast of characters as they sail towards their heist destination.
My one qualm with the story is that it felt like it wasn’t finished… and I know I know it’s the first book in a series. But not a whole lot happened in the story. They’re on their way to a heist and they haven’t even reach the destination when the story abruptly ends. I just felt like it was cut at a weird stopping point which is why I gave it a 4.5 rather than a 5. But Im excited to continue the series and the adventures these characters embark on!
If you love banter and characters who are fighting their feelings, this is the book for you! I promise you will fall for Finn!
While you don’t need to read Oceans of Ink and Tides of Secrets before reading this book, it helps create a better depth of understanding the characters.
Tropes:
✨arranged marriage
✨hidden identity (voice)
✨enemies to more
✨banter
YA fantasy
⚠️content
-kisses only
-sword fight/battle where they talk flippantly about death and the number of kills each has
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Annah Conwell for gifting me an early copy of Veil of Deceit! 💕
How do you even put into words the way a book completely rewires your brain?
It’s rare for me to find a fantasy that checks every single box, but Veil of Deceit did exactly that. This is the kind of story that lingers long after you finish the last page. One I will continue to think about for years to come. Until now, only one series had ever done that for me...but Veil of Deceit has officially claimed the #1 spot as my favorite book (big declaration, I know)!
Lord Finnick Valengard? I am unwell by him.
Finn is hands down the BEST written MMC I have ever read. He's charming (iykyk), but what makes him truly special is that he feels deeply while also being strong and masculine. He loves fiercely, flirts like it’s nobody’s business, protects those he’s loyal to, and cares deeply for the people in his life. Can we just yap about him and Wren’s relationship? So cute. There’s no forced “morally gray” persona...he’s simply an incredible character and I adored every second he was on the page as I did in the Obsidian Academy series.
Annah crafted Lucianna’s character so beautifully. Her need for perfection is woven into every part of her character (to the point it made me so sad for her) and you can see the weight she carries in so many of the small moments and lines Annah wrote throughout the story. She has so much room to grow, and I’m so invested in seeing where the story takes her...specially with Finn by her side.
Not once did this story lose my attention. In fact, it’s one of those books where you forget you’re reading because you’re completely immersed in the world. Any break I took I couldn’t wait to dive back in.
Favorite book of the year. No question.
Now if someone could kindly explain how I'm supposed to function while waiting for book two, that would be great.
10/10
infinity stars
Number 1 recommendation for all of 2026!
How do you even put into words the way a book completely rewires your brain?
It’s rare for me to find a fantasy that checks every single box, but Veil of Deceit did exactly that. This is the kind of story that lingers long after you finish the last page. One I will continue to think about for years to come. Until now, only one series had ever done that for me...but Veil of Deceit has officially claimed the #1 spot as my favorite book (big declaration, I know)!
Lord Finnick Valengard? I am unwell by him.
Finn is hands down the BEST written MMC I have ever read. He's charming (iykyk), but what makes him truly special is that he feels deeply while also being strong and masculine. He loves fiercely, flirts like it’s nobody’s business, protects those he’s loyal to, and cares deeply for the people in his life. Can we just yap about him and Wren’s relationship? So cute. There’s no forced “morally gray” persona...he’s simply an incredible character and I adored every second he was on the page as I did in the Obsidian Academy series.
Annah crafted Lucianna’s character so beautifully. Her need for perfection is woven into every part of her character (to the point it made me so sad for her) and you can see the weight she carries in so many of the small moments and lines Annah wrote throughout the story. She has so much room to grow, and I’m so invested in seeing where the story takes her...specially with Finn by her side.
Not once did this story lose my attention. In fact, it’s one of those books where you forget you’re reading because you’re completely immersed in the world. Any break I took I couldn’t wait to dive back in.
Favorite book of the year. No question.
Now if someone could kindly explain how I'm supposed to function while waiting for book two, that would be great.
10/10
infinity stars
Number 1 recommendation for all of 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Author
My thoughts:
Annah is such a literary genius! Her writing is amazing! I’m not a fan of her cliffhangers though 😭 WHAT WAS THAT?!
Finn and Lucianna are so precious. I love them so much.
My poor baby Finn. I just want to give him a hug. He’s one of my favorite MMC’s ever. He makes everyone think he’s carefree and reckless when really he feels so deeply. And just STOP! This MAN! I love him so much. He’s literally so amazing. He’s such a flirt but is secretly so full of love to give. And the way he wants to protect Luciana and keep her safe, even when they aren’t in love is too much! 😍💗
I loved how resilient Lucianna is. She is so strong and brave and has been through so much in her life. I at first felt she was a little naive but then realized that she doesn’t feel safe to love and trust others. 🥺
I was SO excited to see Castien and Wren again! I guessed what was going on when they were on the ship the second Cas said Wren wasn’t feeling well and I’m SO HAPPY FOR THEM! 🥹💗
That ending was absolutely uncalled for and i literally need book 2 more than anything else. Like we didn’t even get a kiss between Finn and Lucianna and then that happens?! NOT OKAY! I will be (im)patiently waiting for book 2 😉
Tropes:
⚓️arranged marriage
⚓️only one bed
⚓️enemies to lovers
⚓️flirtatious MMC
⚓️sassy FMC
⚓️sparring sessions
⚓️he falls first
⚓️he cares for her
⚓️pirate crew
⚓️slow burn
Content:
- 5☆
- spice: kissing only (closed door)
- language: none
- TW/CW: blood and gore. Violence. Grief. Death.
Huge thank to A. R. Conwell for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Annah is such a literary genius! Her writing is amazing! I’m not a fan of her cliffhangers though 😭 WHAT WAS THAT?!
Finn and Lucianna are so precious. I love them so much.
My poor baby Finn. I just want to give him a hug. He’s one of my favorite MMC’s ever. He makes everyone think he’s carefree and reckless when really he feels so deeply. And just STOP! This MAN! I love him so much. He’s literally so amazing. He’s such a flirt but is secretly so full of love to give. And the way he wants to protect Luciana and keep her safe, even when they aren’t in love is too much! 😍💗
I loved how resilient Lucianna is. She is so strong and brave and has been through so much in her life. I at first felt she was a little naive but then realized that she doesn’t feel safe to love and trust others. 🥺
I was SO excited to see Castien and Wren again! I guessed what was going on when they were on the ship the second Cas said Wren wasn’t feeling well and I’m SO HAPPY FOR THEM! 🥹💗
That ending was absolutely uncalled for and i literally need book 2 more than anything else. Like we didn’t even get a kiss between Finn and Lucianna and then that happens?! NOT OKAY! I will be (im)patiently waiting for book 2 😉
Tropes:
⚓️arranged marriage
⚓️only one bed
⚓️enemies to lovers
⚓️flirtatious MMC
⚓️sassy FMC
⚓️sparring sessions
⚓️he falls first
⚓️he cares for her
⚓️pirate crew
⚓️slow burn
Content:
- 5☆
- spice: kissing only (closed door)
- language: none
- TW/CW: blood and gore. Violence. Grief. Death.
Huge thank to A. R. Conwell for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a voluntary early ebook. All thoughts are my own.
Oh my gosh! This book is even better than the Obsidian Academy duet which is insane because the duet was amazing!
I got so easily swept up into this story. Lucianna and Finnick are absolutely incredible! Their banter and chemistry are off the charts! They might be my favorite couple ever!
I loved diving deeper into Finnick and getting more of his thoughts and feelings. His personality and insecurities are well written and I just want him to have everything he wants!
Lucianna is incredible and seeing her struggles and hopes play out are top notch. I can’t wait to see what other secrets we’ll learn about Lucianna in the next books.
I loved the addition of the new characters and can’t wait to see even more of them. Having old characters from the duet was so fun and I’m glad they get to be a part of this adventure. And it seems like we’ll see more friendly faces in the next books! Eeeeek I’m so excited!
I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger ending since this the first in a trilogy but I can’t handle that ending!!! I’m going to be impatiently waiting the whole time for the next one! I’m just going to reread this book multiple times until then.
Recommended reading age (14 yrs+)
No spice (just kisses)
No explicit language use
PG-13 Violence/Gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️absolutely loved it
Oh my gosh! This book is even better than the Obsidian Academy duet which is insane because the duet was amazing!
I got so easily swept up into this story. Lucianna and Finnick are absolutely incredible! Their banter and chemistry are off the charts! They might be my favorite couple ever!
I loved diving deeper into Finnick and getting more of his thoughts and feelings. His personality and insecurities are well written and I just want him to have everything he wants!
Lucianna is incredible and seeing her struggles and hopes play out are top notch. I can’t wait to see what other secrets we’ll learn about Lucianna in the next books.
I loved the addition of the new characters and can’t wait to see even more of them. Having old characters from the duet was so fun and I’m glad they get to be a part of this adventure. And it seems like we’ll see more friendly faces in the next books! Eeeeek I’m so excited!
I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger ending since this the first in a trilogy but I can’t handle that ending!!! I’m going to be impatiently waiting the whole time for the next one! I’m just going to reread this book multiple times until then.
Recommended reading age (14 yrs+)
No spice (just kisses)
No explicit language use
PG-13 Violence/Gore
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️absolutely loved it
June 24, 2026
The banter between these two is everything. Oh my gosh, I loved every single second of this book!
Honestly, what’s not to love? A marriage of convenience, a heist, a pirate crew, and so much more. As someone who loved Oceans of Ink, I somehow loved this one even more.
I absolutely adored Finn. He has the personality of a golden retriever always joking, teasing, and making people laugh but he also cares so deeply about everyone around him. My heart broke for him when we learned how afraid he is that people only like him because of his gift and not because of who he truly is. He’s kind, caring, loyal, and fiercely protective of the people he loves. Seeing everything he was going through while still putting on such a carefree facade made me want to give him the biggest hug. I also loved getting to see Wren and Cas again.
Lucianna is a thief who has been training in stealth ever since her gift manifested, all while trying to make her father proud. She puts so much pressure on herself and struggles to let people in because she’s afraid they’ll use her vulnerability against her. I loved how, no matter what she threw at Finn, he continued to show her that he wasn’t going anywhere and that he was willing to be patient while she learned to trust him.
Thank you Annah for this ARC 💕
Honestly, what’s not to love? A marriage of convenience, a heist, a pirate crew, and so much more. As someone who loved Oceans of Ink, I somehow loved this one even more.
I absolutely adored Finn. He has the personality of a golden retriever always joking, teasing, and making people laugh but he also cares so deeply about everyone around him. My heart broke for him when we learned how afraid he is that people only like him because of his gift and not because of who he truly is. He’s kind, caring, loyal, and fiercely protective of the people he loves. Seeing everything he was going through while still putting on such a carefree facade made me want to give him the biggest hug. I also loved getting to see Wren and Cas again.
Lucianna is a thief who has been training in stealth ever since her gift manifested, all while trying to make her father proud. She puts so much pressure on herself and struggles to let people in because she’s afraid they’ll use her vulnerability against her. I loved how, no matter what she threw at Finn, he continued to show her that he wasn’t going anywhere and that he was willing to be patient while she learned to trust him.
Thank you Annah for this ARC 💕
June 26, 2026
Love love love this book and this whole world!!
If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend starting with the Obsidian Academy duet before starting this series!! You fall in love with the characters so much in that duet and then it is so fun to revisit them with this new series.
I knew this book would end on a cliff hanger but I still wasn’t ready for it! I didn’t want the story to end! I am so looking forward to book 2 because I need more of this story! If I was going to give a criticism it would be that we didn’t get as far into the story arc as I would like since they’re still on a boat traveling to their destination at the end and I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens in Grimhaven. Also the main characters love story didn’t develop quite as much as I was wanting but it’s a series so I know I just need to be patient and it will come in book 2!!
The character development and world development is SOOO good! I love the whole cast of characters!
I love the romantasy genre and I am so thankful that Conwell is writing such amazing fantasy books with none of the spice and inappropriate content that has become so common in the genre!
I flew through this book and felt so sad to be at the end! Bring on book 2 (and 3!!!)
If you haven’t read it yet, I highly recommend starting with the Obsidian Academy duet before starting this series!! You fall in love with the characters so much in that duet and then it is so fun to revisit them with this new series.
I knew this book would end on a cliff hanger but I still wasn’t ready for it! I didn’t want the story to end! I am so looking forward to book 2 because I need more of this story! If I was going to give a criticism it would be that we didn’t get as far into the story arc as I would like since they’re still on a boat traveling to their destination at the end and I’m really looking forward to seeing what happens in Grimhaven. Also the main characters love story didn’t develop quite as much as I was wanting but it’s a series so I know I just need to be patient and it will come in book 2!!
The character development and world development is SOOO good! I love the whole cast of characters!
I love the romantasy genre and I am so thankful that Conwell is writing such amazing fantasy books with none of the spice and inappropriate content that has become so common in the genre!
I flew through this book and felt so sad to be at the end! Bring on book 2 (and 3!!!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was everything I needed from Finn’s first book and more. I knew that Finn had depth to him in the Obsidian Acadamy series, but this brought it to a whole new level! The way he carries the weight of everyone’s happiness, disguising his troubles so he’s not a burden, all while putting on a light hearted charming front? Heart melting. Honestly, I was so protective of Finnick that Lucianna was kind of making me mad in the beginning… only you can’t help but love her too. You can’t fault her for how shes been hard wired to function. For guarding her heart. It made for such delightful tension and sparks between the two…. But it was (and still is) the slowest of slow burns. It’s torturously wonderful and what AR Conwell does best. The pirate vibes were top tier and I loved our Castien and Wren moments!! Book 2 can’t come soon enough after that ending (Annah be nice to us and our dear characters please).
PLEASE NOTE!
While this is the first book in the series, it does contain major spoilers for the Obsidian Academy Duology
PLEASE NOTE!
While this is the first book in the series, it does contain major spoilers for the Obsidian Academy Duology
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to A.R. Conwell for providing me with an ARC! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This world and these characters have such a special place in my heart, I am so happy to return to the Seven Havens.
A.R. Conwell has such an amazing way with words, the writing is fantastical and beautiful, not one word out of place.
You can't help but fall in love with Finn and Lucianna, they both are stubborn and complicated, and reading this book feels like sharing in their vulnerability.
The relationships between characters are special and heartwarming, and the love they have for each other is contagious. You will devour, love, and be haunted by this book
This is a book with incredibly high stakes. There is tension and fighting; but without the violence being bloody, or the morals being gray. I feel comfortable recommending this book to most readers!
This world and these characters have such a special place in my heart, I am so happy to return to the Seven Havens.
A.R. Conwell has such an amazing way with words, the writing is fantastical and beautiful, not one word out of place.
You can't help but fall in love with Finn and Lucianna, they both are stubborn and complicated, and reading this book feels like sharing in their vulnerability.
The relationships between characters are special and heartwarming, and the love they have for each other is contagious. You will devour, love, and be haunted by this book
This is a book with incredibly high stakes. There is tension and fighting; but without the violence being bloody, or the morals being gray. I feel comfortable recommending this book to most readers!
Review of advance copy received from Author
★★★★★ Hooked from page one — can’t wait for the next book!
Veil of Deceit completely pulled me in. This is my second read from A.R. Conwell — I previously read her Oceans of Ink duet, which (interestingly) follows the same characters in a different storyline, and she’s quickly become an author I trust to deliver. As the first book in what looks to be an adventure-romance series, this one does a great job laying the groundwork — arranged marriage tension, hints of an enemies-to-lovers dynamic — without ever feeling slow. The pacing struck that rare balance of fast-moving while still taking time to build out the world. I genuinely couldn’t put it down, and I’m already counting down until I can pick up the next book in the series.
Veil of Deceit completely pulled me in. This is my second read from A.R. Conwell — I previously read her Oceans of Ink duet, which (interestingly) follows the same characters in a different storyline, and she’s quickly become an author I trust to deliver. As the first book in what looks to be an adventure-romance series, this one does a great job laying the groundwork — arranged marriage tension, hints of an enemies-to-lovers dynamic — without ever feeling slow. The pacing struck that rare balance of fast-moving while still taking time to build out the world. I genuinely couldn’t put it down, and I’m already counting down until I can pick up the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a perfect book!! 🤩 Veil of Deceit has it all: adventure, danger, impossible odds, lovable characters, banter, sweet and fun romance, unique world-building and magic system, and, of course, Finnick Valengard. 😍 I absolutely adored Finn in the previous duology (which you don’t have to read before this book), and was so ecstatic when I heard he was getting his own story! He and Lucianna fit together so well, even if they’re too stubborn to realize it at times. Also, that cliffhanger was ILLEGAL!! 😤 I need the next book nooowww!
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
/I received an ARC from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own/
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so happy when I saw AR Conwell was giving Finn his own story. This book is full of secrets, banter, bravery, and loyalty. Can't even be mad about the cliffhanger because this book is that good. Stayed up late finishing it and it's still living in my head a few days later. The author does a wonderful job creating legitimate reasons for the characters to act the way they do. The secrets and fear of trust are completely reasonable considering their backgrounds especially Lucianna's. Grief is a theme but not in a way that makes me put the book down. Great balance of struggles and fun.
I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received this book from the author and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Annah Conwell for gifting me an Advanced Reader Copy of this book!
This book deserves ♾️⭐️s! Hands down my favorite fantasy/Romantasy of all time. If you want a clean wholesome story that includes swords, beasts, pirates, romance, and just overall action this is for you! If you read the Obsidian Academy, this book zooms in on our beloved Finn, introduces us to Lucianna and you also get more of our beloved Cas & Wren! All while leaving you wanting MORE!
Some tropes you will read:
- Arranged Marriage
- unique gifts
- charming MMC
- perfectionist FMC
- dual POV
The ONLY negative is that we now have to wait for #2 in this trilogy!
This book deserves ♾️⭐️s! Hands down my favorite fantasy/Romantasy of all time. If you want a clean wholesome story that includes swords, beasts, pirates, romance, and just overall action this is for you! If you read the Obsidian Academy, this book zooms in on our beloved Finn, introduces us to Lucianna and you also get more of our beloved Cas & Wren! All while leaving you wanting MORE!
Some tropes you will read:
- Arranged Marriage
- unique gifts
- charming MMC
- perfectionist FMC
- dual POV
The ONLY negative is that we now have to wait for #2 in this trilogy!
June 20, 2026
First of all thank you Annah for the chance to read an ARC copy of veil of deceit ❤️
Oh my word this book, what can i even say ? I laughed at the absolutely incredible banter and teasing
and I teared up at the struggles and growth these amazing characters went through, the way A.R Conwell writes yearning and tension with any sort of explicit content is unmatched and the cliffhanger 😭?!?! I simply cannot wait for book 2 Annah you outdid yourself once again !!
10000/10 ⭐
Oh my word this book, what can i even say ? I laughed at the absolutely incredible banter and teasing
and I teared up at the struggles and growth these amazing characters went through, the way A.R Conwell writes yearning and tension with any sort of explicit content is unmatched and the cliffhanger 😭?!?! I simply cannot wait for book 2 Annah you outdid yourself once again !!
10000/10 ⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
Annah, you absolute fiend. How am I supposed to survive till the next book??? THAT ENDING.
(Needless to say, all the stars, fantastic summer fun, and I can't wait for the next story. I guess I have to say "thank you" for the free book—and to be clear, I adore being part of this gang that gets my mitts on early copies!—but my little angsty heart just can't handle the ending, lol.)
(Needless to say, all the stars, fantastic summer fun, and I can't wait for the next story. I guess I have to say "thank you" for the free book—and to be clear, I adore being part of this gang that gets my mitts on early copies!—but my little angsty heart just can't handle the ending, lol.)
Review of advance copy received from Author
1 billion sparkling stars. This was perfection for me. I physically stopped reading at 80% because I knew I would not sleep knowing there would be a cliff hanger. So glad I waited, that last 20% needed all of my awake focus. I cannot wait for book 2. What to do with myself while waiting,.... Re read of course starting back at book 1 of the obsidian academy 😍
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not put this book down! I finished it in less than 24 hours. It was that good. This is the first book I have read by A.R. Conwell and now I want to read everything she has ever written.
I absolutely loved the world building and the interesting gifts that the characters have. All of the characters were so enjoyable in different ways. The FMC and MMC both are dealing with difficult emotional struggles and I really appreciated the way that the author incorporated that. It adds so much to the character development.
I also love that I know that any book I pick up by A.R. Conwell will be clean and free of spice, but still have all the swoony romance! A breath of fresh air in the romantasy world! This still has some of the tropes that many are looking for with a marriage of convenience and enemies to lovers type theme. I can’t recommend this book enough and I can’t believe I have to wait for the next ones in the series!
I absolutely loved the world building and the interesting gifts that the characters have. All of the characters were so enjoyable in different ways. The FMC and MMC both are dealing with difficult emotional struggles and I really appreciated the way that the author incorporated that. It adds so much to the character development.
I also love that I know that any book I pick up by A.R. Conwell will be clean and free of spice, but still have all the swoony romance! A breath of fresh air in the romantasy world! This still has some of the tropes that many are looking for with a marriage of convenience and enemies to lovers type theme. I can’t recommend this book enough and I can’t believe I have to wait for the next ones in the series!
June 26, 2026
Absolutely obsessed! Once again, AR has hit it out of the park. Angst, flirting, love, loss, and everything in between. I don’t know how I can wait until 2027 to read the next one!! ✨🗡️🩷
Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own!🫶
Thank you to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own!🫶
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutley loved this one! Easily a favorite for this month! Adventures, secrets and a marriage of convenience neither one wants but I think will be the perfect outcome for Finn & Lucianna! And that cliffhanger of an ending?! It was so perfect and absolutely everything. So ready for book two!
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