Behind the Iron Gate: An Immortal Orders Novel

The Immortal Orders #4

by Allison Carr Waechter

Genres: Fantasy, Romance

480 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2026

Reviews

[Magg · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5⭐️ 1🌶️
A lot happened in this book! I do think that some parts were brushed over that could have used more attention though. All of the issues had really straightforward solutions too, so there wasn’t a lot of suspense or action throughout.
This feels like it should be listed as an extension of the Immortal Orders series instead of its own series because of the lack of historical lore, world building, and side character development though.

TROPES
Allies to Lovers
Neurodivergent FMC
Vampire x Sorceress
Fast to Medium Burn
Murder Mystery
Demi/sapiosexual FMC
Magical Bonds/Fated Mates

THE WORLD
The author has created a really big world here, and given that this book is a sequel to a trilogy in this world, there is a lot happening. I would say that reading the immortal orders trilogy isn’t mandatory but I would highly recommend it, because the world building here was more like recaps rather than in depth development. So I was confused at times by the random introductions of magical elements or historical lore.
Since this is a different series though, I wish that there had been more detail in the world building, especially for people who didn’t read the previous trilogy or didn’t re-read it as a refresher before this book.

THE CHARACTERS
Vivi had a really unique character because of her neurodivergence and how she perceives social interactions. I liked her and found her to be a memorable character.
Casimir had a good backstory by the end of the book but I felt like I wanted more from him?
I liked the found family but there were a LOT of side characters being introduced so it was hard to remember everyone and their relations to one another. Especially the various clans, orders, and family histories. I think I know who the MCs and main side characters were in the previous trilogy just based on the bits of historical lore throughout, but there wasn’t enough in this book for me to remember them.

THE ROMANCE
It was sweet because of how understanding and supportive Cas was of Vivi and her need for straightforward discussions in her romance. I enjoyed the innocence of their love in the new stages, but did feel like it was rushed. There was a dose of insta-love and their obsessions with eachother were quick to build. I wish it had slowed down a bit so they could spend more time getting to know eachother instead of immediately feeling like they’ve known eachother for years and professing love after knowing eachother for not long at all.

Thank you to Behjnd the Pages & Allison Carr Waechter for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

[Marija Unkind · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was immediately intrigued by the tropes and the blurb of this book. The first 10% felt a bit confusing, especially since I hadn’t read the previous trilogy - there was a lot of information and backstory introduced all at once.

However, once I got into it, I was really impressed. The characters were beautifully portrayed, with deep, emotional writing that made their experiences feel real. I especially loved how the relationship developed - slow, intentional and filled with truly swoon-worthy moments.

Casimir, the MMC, was a particularly fascinating character. Getting insight into his thoughts and perspective felt refreshing and added a unique layer to the story.

I also felt for Viviana, the FMC, and her struggle to find where she truly belongs, even within her own family. That said, there were moments where she seemed a bit blind to certain situations, which could be frustrating at times.

Overall, this is a compelling read set in a richly built fantasy world, full of layered mysteries and distinctive characters!

Thank you to Allison Carr Waechter and Behind the Pages PA for providing me with an ARC 🖤
All opinions are my own.

[Ashley {_xamountofbooks} · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Behind the Pages PR)

This series takes places after The Immortal Orders by this author and having not read that one, I really appreciated the TLDR summing up what you needed to know to go into this one. (I also will be adding that series to my TBR after finishing this one lol).

Section Seven gave me Gossip Girl vibes which amused me. I really loved Vivi and Cas together. I thought they had great chemistry and really seemed to understand how they other worked. Loved the queer norm in the world. The fantasy was blended in really well with the modern times. I think Vivi as a neurodivergent character was done really well too. Loved the found family and how they all worked together to solve the mystery. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

Favorite quotes
“I will ruin you,” were the last civilized words I could manage.
“Ruin me,” she growled, dragging me hard against her, her soft mouth crashing into mine.

[Kayleigh Stelling · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review!
I definitely enjoyed this book but I also could’ve enjoyed it more. While reading the original series isn’t required to understand and enjoy this book, I think it would’ve made my reading experience better. I had a hard time keeping track of some elements of the lore and some character names. I also think I would’ve been more prepared for the full scope of this world. I was expecting some of the things that were present in the story. Not a bad thing, just a thing that would’ve been different if I’d read the original series first.
Overall, once I was invested I couldn’t put this book down. I felt it was slow to start but once it started it never stopped. The chemistry between our two main characters is absolutely electric and I found myself on the edge of my seat for their relationship as much as for the murder mystery. Both romance and mystery fans could find easy joy in reading this. I definitely recommend it.
4/5⭐️
1/5🌶️

[Queenie2023 aka Rita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read !! But with it being a Book 4 at times I was confused since I didn’t read the prior books in the series. But overall a good read and enjoyed it

[Beba Andric · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very intrigued by the blurb for this book, which mentioned it wasn't necessary to have read the previous 3 in the series, which I hadn't. Though there was a brief description of what went down in the author notes, I wish I had. There were inferences and references to events I had no knowledge of and I confess to being a bit confused. But...the more I read, the more I "understood" the history of what had taken place before. And I ended up throwing that thought out the window, and enjoying it, immensely. Which lead me to download the previous books....

Viviana is more than just a musfit, she comes from a long line of shifters but she can't shift. Not truly accepted at home, not accepted at university, her attempts to be "one of them" fails, dismally, "I’d failed with humans and immortals alike, time and time again." Her lifeline, her security, her sanctuary was her sister, Kat. Who she idolised. With Kat's tragic demise, Vivi is struggling, with just about everything. The author depicted all Vivi's insecurities, her sense of inadequacy, plausibly, a hint of neurodivergent behaviour, with great sensitivity. I found I liked her from the onset. As a witch, she was unusual, her affinity to magic and to books, was unusual, Porthos, a greymalkin cat who attached itself to her, was unusual. Who I I loved, his quiet all knowing presence, a constant. I just adore this entire cast! Vampires and shifters, mortal enemies, but the likes of Quinn, Aurora, Isa, Corio, and Vivi's awesome family, take on the fight, alongside Cas and Vivi, all non judgemental, just acceptance and affection and badassery of mega proportions. Escalating to heart stopping moments where I could barely breathe.

Casimir, a vampire, determined to take his rightful place as leader of the vamps, to lead them forward, away from their bloodthirsty superiority, collides with Viviana, literally, and the fates take over. A very unlikely "appreciation" grows into something more. This was superbly crafted, I feel both so strongly, all their reservations, all their angst and all their desire. Not only physical but the bond that emerged, settled and resonated. Cas is awesome, flamboyant, all a front to achieve his goal. His heart and soul are exposed so beautifully by the author, the love, protectiveness and sheer scope of their feelings is divine.

The author constructed such a woven web of mystery, one I was caught in and one I had no idea how would unravel. Ms Waechter achieved, what I can only assume was her goal, to keep the threads far apart, only she, the master weaver, was privvy to which end was which. Which to pull, which to bind and weave. The intrigue burrowed into me, a compulsion to discover how this tapestry would present itself. And boy oh boy, the strands were unlike anything I could possibly have envisioned. As she started to pull the strands together, weaving them expertly, what she exposed had my jaw dropping more and more. At one point, I was literally dumbstruck....You might think this is a just Romantasy and, yes, there's definitely that, a beautiful fated mates romance but it's so much more. Ancient beings, deities, emerge....a war that raged for so long, most had relegated it to myth. Until it's clear it's far from myth. Many WTF moments indeed! It's secrets, hidden agendas, lies of mammoth proportions, a battle for dominance. But it was the betrayals that I didn't see coming that were like a punch to the stomach. Hell, concealed under numerous layers, it was masterfully executed. The intricate patterns come alive under this author's expertise, vividly so. How these strands connected, to whom, was mindbogglingly! Unexpected! The revelations hitting faster than a horse out the starting post, I was clenching my teeth. But heck, the last third of the book had my adrenaline pumping in overdrive! This new to me author is one who's joined my list of favourites

[Tori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5
I received an ARC for my honest opinion.

Behind the Iron Gate is a beautifully atmospheric and emotionally layered story that steadily pulls you deeper with every chapter. Allison Carr Waechter crafts a world filled with mystery, tension, and emotional complexity, creating a reading experience that feels both immersive and deeply compelling.

One of the strongest aspects of this book is its atmosphere. There’s a quiet intensity woven throughout the story that creates a constant sense of anticipation and intrigue. The setting feels vivid and carefully constructed, adding depth to both the emotional and suspenseful moments.

The characters are another standout. They feel layered, flawed, and emotionally authentic, which made it easy to become invested in their journeys. Watching them navigate secrets, personal struggles, and difficult choices added a strong emotional core to the story. The relationships between the characters are especially well done, balancing vulnerability, tension, and trust in a way that feels realistic and meaningful.

I especially loved Viviana Krane as the female lead. She’s strong, intelligent, and incredibly real. I appreciated how the story explored her struggles with social and mental cues, because it made her feel raw, authentic, and deeply relatable. It helped me connect with her on a much deeper level. I also loved her ability to feel the emotions left behind in books it added such a unique and emotional layer to the story. Waechter handled the neurodivergent representation with so much care and respect, and it truly stood out to me.

Casimir was another highlight. I loved how caring and protective he was toward Viv. He’s soft and gentle with her, but there’s also a dangerous side to him that makes it clear he would do anything to keep her safe. Their fated mates dynamic was done really well, especially because the romance develops through a slow burn built on trust, communication, and emotional connection. Watching their chemistry unfold naturally made the relationship even more satisfying.

I also appreciated the pacing of the novel. The story takes its time developing the world and emotional stakes while still maintaining enough tension to keep the pages turning. The reveals are handled well, gradually unfolding in ways that kept me curious and engaged throughout.

What really elevated this book for me was the emotional depth beneath the mystery and intrigue. Themes of resilience, identity, loyalty, and healing are woven naturally into the story, giving it substance beyond the plot itself.

I would like to thank Behind the Pages and the author for the opportunity to review this book.

[Leah Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

What would you do if you and this hot guy you just met were being framed for multiple murders around campus?

Viviana lost her sister in a tragic accident and has been chasing after the reason for her death for years. She finds herself running away from things that feel too close to the time when her sister was around. Transferring colleges and towns to try and find some semblance of peace from the horrors of her loss.

Vivi returns to her home town and transfers to the college in town where she meets Casimir. Instantly, the connection is there, and the way they meet is very cute and silly. Of course, there’s family drama between these two and they are warned to stay away from each other. Fate has other plans for them!

Not only can they not stay away from each other, they also happen to be the only ones at the scenes of multiple murders around campus. Who is framing them? Why are they framing them?

Together, they not only help solve the string of mysterious murders being pinned on them, but also the reason for Vivi’s sister’s death.

This story goes on a journey of self discovery, learning to trust yourself again, and letting love in again.

I relate to Vivi in the sense that I need people to be direct with what they’re trying to tell me or I will completely misinterpret it. It’s always so nice to see neurodivergent representation in reading and done in a way that isn’t glorified! I definitely think the author, Allison, does this very well.

With this being a standalone sequel, I was nervous to not understand some of the things going on. Genuinely, I didn’t feel like it was confusing or hard to follow. Plus, the author does a great job of introducing the characters despite them being known in the series, so it’s very easy to follow along!

Although I’m not the biggest instalove fan, I love a slow burn, I do think this was done well and I very much enjoyed the story! I do wish there was a little more elaborating on certain people or why they were key players in the story. I still think this book was well written and was a fun, cozy read!

[Valerie | Vanelena.Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the Iron Gate is a suspenseful, emotional, and deeply romantic follow up to The Immortal Orders series.

In the decades after the events in The Immortal Orders, Nuva Troi and its citizens are trying to rebuild their lives. Sorciere Viviana Krane grew up shadowed by her family’s legacy, and after a tragedy strikes, she fled the city for a university far away from the prying eyes of society. But she’s returning to finish her graduate studies, and finds herself mixed up in a series of mysterious murders around campus. And of course, somehow tied to it all is Casimir Sanvier, heir to the Remiel Throne and the apparent leader of the Nuva Troi vampires. Her aunt Harlow and Uncle Finn have warned Viviana to stay away from Casimir, but they are drawn to each other and can’t seem to stay out of one another’s orbit. Can they solve the murders and clear their names, or will the truth shatter everything they know?

I loved this book! First, it was so great to be back in Nuva Troi with some new characters, but don’t worry some familiar favorites make an appearance as well. This book follows the next generation characters, so things are a bit different this time around, but we still get to follow the Krane family and hear what our favorites from TIO are up to. This book had a lot going on - there’s a murder mystery plot, memory loss, dealing with grief, a slow burn, witch x vampire forbidden romance, and an ancient prophecy coming to light. I loved Viviana and the neurodivergent representation. Casimir is such a cinnamon bun, he could absolutely k1ll you, but he’s soft for Viviana. I loved their romance. And of course the friendships in this book are just incredible. Allison writes emotional vulnerability so beautifully- I’m always a mushy mess after books, but you get the happy ending to that makes it better.

Loved this one - if you’re a fan of TIO, you definitely need to read this next generation in Behind the Iron Gate.

Thank you so much to Allison Carr Waechter for the advanced copy of this wonderful book! All opinions are my own.

[Julie(s bookish life) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book surprised me in so many ways! Behind the Iron Gate is technically book 4 in The Immortal Orders series by Allison Carr Waechter, but it takes place many years after the first 3 books and can be read without reading those 3 prior as I did.

I loved how Viviana was neurospicy, and how well her thoughts and feelings were explained. She worried so much about what others were thinking about her idiosyncrasies when really they just cared about her. It took time for her to realize this though, and I think that made so much sense.

I don’t really see this as a slow burn romance…Casimir and Vivana both were instantly attracted to eachother… they each had reservations, though, and for very good reasons. It’s not the only book out there that uses slow burn in this way….Kissed by the Gods is another example of instant attraction, but they did not immediately get together. In my mind, slow burn is where they are not attracted or drawn to each other at first (with maybe the exception of the pull of a bond, which then has to be “unexplainable”) but slowly throughout the book their attraction grows. If anyone has thoughts on the definition of slow burn, let me know!

This book started off slow…really slow. It’s my only real gripe with the book. I think it was unnecessary for there to have been so much detail and time spent on Viviana’s stint at a University outside of Nuva Troi at the beginning of the book. And as much as I appreciated Vivana’s neurospicy attributes, some of the explanations at the beginning could have been trimmed down. Once the book picked up, I really enjoyed it.

I was pleasantly surprised by all of the twists and turns in this book, and I definitely did not expect the ending! One day, I hope to read the first three books in the series!

[Haley | wickedbeebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

GUYS. ALLISON ALWAYS HAS ME CRYING IN THE CLUB 😭 (/on the couch bc let’s be real I finished this in like 2 sittings late at night on my couch while cozy as hell)

This was the Okairos revisiting that I’ve always DREAMED of, and it delivered on literally every. single. front. Behind the Iron Gate follows Viviana Krane, who has just returned after running from her ancestral home in Nuva Troi because of a massive loss she can’t forgive herself for. She’s also found herself in the middle of a huge mystery involving murder, magic, questions coming from deep beneath the sea, amnesia, and a silver eyed vampire her family keeps warning her to stay FAR away from.

This has everything: urban fantasy, murder mystery, all manner of immortal creatures, action packed scenes, elaborate lore, decadent spice, stunning romance, and SO MUCH FOUND FAMILY (I am telling you, nobody does a found family like Allison). There is also the inclusion of really beautiful neurodivergent representation. Allison’s books always touch my heart on a soul-deep level, they take me on a journey and leave me feeling like I’ve met and gotten to know a group of friends I can’t live without come the end. This 100% took me to that place all over again, and I wanted to start it all over again from the beginning the moment I finished it.

You will adore this whether or not you’ve already read and loved The Immortal Orders series, but it will DEFINITELY leave you wanting more and reaching for her other books if you haven’t!

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an ARC read
I really enjoyed this book. It had me from beginning to end

There’s a certain atmosphere in this story that pulled me in early and never really let go. It feels heavy at times, a little eerie, and always like something is happening just beneath the surface.
The mystery is what held me the most. It doesn’t rush. I had to sit with things, question what I thought I knew, and let everything slowly unfold.
The romance is a slow burn, but not an easy one. There’s tension in it—this pull between two people who clearly shouldn’t be drawn to each other, but are anyway.
This one gives you EVERYTHING—witches, sirens, vampires, shapeshifters—and somehow it all works without feeling messy. What stood out is how naturally it all blends together.
And I have to mention the magical cat—it brought so much personality into the story. Unexpected, funny at times, and one of my favorite parts.

What I liked most is that it doesn’t try too hard. It just unfolds the way it wants to—dark, layered, emotional, and a little unpredictable.

⭐️ 4.25 / 5

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“All I wanted was to be like everyone else, to be less… because I only ever felt like too much.”

This book. THIS. BOOK! More than a mystery in another gorgeously etherial fantasy setting, this was a book about love. The love of a sister, the love of a fated mate, the love of family (birth and chosen), and -finally - the love you have for yourself.

I could - and will - talk all day about Carr Waechter’s gorgeous writing and descriptions and vivid worlds, but I just want to talk about the characters in this one. I loved every single character - both familiar faces and new - and just loved getting to see both MCs grow into themselves because of the support they gave each other just by accepting and loving each other for who they are.

I don’t think you need to have read any of her other books to appreciate this one. Highly recommend.

[Annie (Houseofbooksandboardgames) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unsurprisingly this book gets all the stars from me. I love Allison's writing style so much. It's hard to explain but I just feel so deeply content in the worlds she creates. She creates an incredibly immersive atmosphere and I love the way her characters all love and care for one another, whether the relationship is romantic, familial, or friendship.

I had read (and loved) the Immortal Orders series so I was very excited to dive back into this world. It isn't necessary to read them first but it definitely increases some of the emotional impact so if you have the time to start there I'd recommend it.

This book has so many well done elements, the murder mystery in a dark academia setting and a forbidden romance between a witch and a vampire to name a few. One thing I especially appreciate is how much Casimir and Viviana communicate. While there are some brief moments of misunderstanding, it's never a drawn out or dramatic miscommunication.

Overall I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a wonderful dark academia modern romantasy.

Thanks to the author for the ARC!

[Nene Grant (TheKindleNerd) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blown away! I'm def gonna need to go and read the other books that come from this world as the world is quite unique and intriguing! Cas is a vampire that i may or may not be obsessed with and Vivi is so quirky and loveable. The side characters were also enjoyable especially Isa! This book has mystery and the underlying tension of the century! A must read!

[achaserigtrup · Rating 4 out of 5]

Allison’s books are always so lush, transportive, and lovingly detailed. The mysteries that need solved unravel slowly and interestingly, and the characters are always so real while being special in a fantastical sense. I don’t know of any other author that can create a fantasy world that has such impeccably borrowed realism mixed with the fantastical, and to do so in every single book. The overall vibes and decadence is so tastefully done and somehow perfectly inspired by 1970s haute couture—I just absolutely devour her books for the vibes alone. It’s not paranormal so much as something all her own.

I really enjoyed this book and its female main character, Vivi, even though sometimes the plot became a bit muddled. It definitely should be read after The Immortal Orders trilogy or it will feel like there is information dumping happening. Additionally, there are a lot of characters to track, folklore, politics, and a couple mysteries. It’s a lot and it demands your attention or it will be tough to follow all the threads and people.

Definitely read this if you’re already an ACW fan, but if you’re new to her universe, I’d recommend you start with IO series first, then read At the White Wolf novella before jumping into this. It will enrich the experience and you’ll love being back on Okairos once more.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review. Many heartfelt thanks to Allison and the Rogue Order!

[Jillsbooknook · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ✨

If I wasn’t careful, Viviana Krane would own my soul.

Behind the Iron Gate is the fourth instalment in the adult urban romantasy series, The Immortal Orders. As this follows the second generation of characters you do not need to have read the first three books (the author provides an overview) but it can add to the story. Written in multi first person POV the story follows Viviana and Casimar. After the loss of her sister, Viviana fled her home for years to attend a school that slowly stripped her down. She returns home to finish her grad program and senses something following her...and she finds herself drawn to Casimar, a vampire prince seeking to claim his father's throne. When a series of murders places targets on their back Viviana and Casimar must work together. Can they fight the connection growing between them or will the find the secrets hidden in the city consume them both?

I am a sucker for a mystery and murder investigation but the yearning in this book was what sold it for me!

Viviana has a quiet and beautiful presence. She has been dragged down with the loss of her sister and social scrutiny she experienced because of her families' prominence. If you have read the previous book you will know her family. I loved her inquisitiveness and how much she pushes her boundaries in the name of discovering the truth.

Casimar is a more calculated character but he falls for Viviana HARD. He struggles a bit between what he wants and what he needs to do. His family situationship adds drama for him to untangle but it adds humility to him as he begins to prioritize what matters most.

…I knew that if she accepted me…I would walk beside her for all eternity. No road she walked would be lonely ever again…

In terms of spice I would place this book at 2 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. There are about 3 spicy scenes in this book with the first appearing around the 66% mark. This is a fated mates romance and the first meeting of these two is everything I needed. At the same time we also have a lot of yearning because Casimar is warned away and he is attempting to deal with his family's house. At the same time he can't stay away. The spice itself is explicit and detailed. There is open communication between them and I really enjoyed how much they could share their wants and needs in the moment as it made the scenes more meaningful and fun!

The story itself starts off with Casimar and Viviana having clear journeys around escaping the past and taking power but as the story progresses they must ban together against another threat. I found the prologue did an amazing job setting the stage with some situational irony I was LOVING. The stories all blend together so you feel satisfied with their journeys. The romance was a great balance as we see it tested and see them fight for it. Side characters help force our characters to make decisions but I want to shout out Porthos for being the best side character of them all. The second half we get hit the most with tension and build up while the first half focuses more on general things I would say we see in academy settings (peer drama, fitting in, rumours, classism). I loved the cameos of previous characters and how it tied into the story. The ending is very sweet and I felt it was a really good ending off this journey!

Overall, another book that Allison really nailed for me! If you love urban romantasy with beautiful yearning, forbidden romance, and a murder investigation set on a university campus you will LOVE this!

Thank you to the author for this arc!

[Sarah Miriam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behind the Iron Gate ARC Review:

Tropes:
~Dark Academia
~Fated Mates & Forbidden Love
~Murder Mystery
~Vampire x Witch
~Magical cat familiar
~Forgotten Memories
~Neurodivergent FMC

Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️

First off…wow. I was absolutely not expecting to love this book so much! When I first applied for this ARC I knew that it was a standalone sequel to the authors Immortal Orders series, but that it didn’t need to be read first in order to enjoy this book. I figured there would be a little confusion, and while that was the case, it was easily resolved once all the characters were introduced. I definitely don’t think you have to read the original trilogy to enjoy this book, however, I added them to my TBR since I loved this book so much!

The authors writing style is absolutely beautiful. The sense of atmosphere and setting was so immersive and the world building was good but not too much as to take away from the story. The dark academia/university setting was beautifully written.

The story centres around mythical creatures that have been a part of this story’s world for centuries-beings such as witches, shifters, vampires and magical familiars just to name a few. The story feels like it’s set in our current modern day, but it also feels like it is it’s own world, it makes sense and feels right, with mythical aspects of the story blending with modern day. Usually when magical aspects are blended with modern day, it really takes me out of the story, but that wasn’t the case for this book

Let’s talk about the two MC’s - Viviana Krane and Casimir Sanvier. Their relationship was everything. So well done, I haven’t enjoyed a love story as much as theirs in a long time. The way they communicated with each other and gave each other what they needed, and understood each other was so refreshing. One of my least favourite tropes is miscommunication, and this couple was quite the opposite of that. Casimir’s character was such a nice change of pace from the MMC’s that are so popular now.

And now for the FMC. She is what made this book so special for me. I truly don’t think I’ve ever related to a character more. Viviana is neurodivergent coded and the way she describes the way she sees and processes the world truly resonated with me. There were times that the author was speaking through Viviana’s character and describing things and situations I’ve never been able to put into words myself. The way she learns to communicate her needs and accept herself really warmed my heart so much.

Here are just a few of my thoughts on this book! I want to thank @allisoncarrwaechter and @behindthepagespa for the opportunity to read this amazing ARC! Behind the Iron Gate releases May 5, 2026. It’s one of my top reads of the year so far and I’m so excited to start the original Immortal Orders trilogy!

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I read this as an ARC. Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in return for an honest review.

Right off the bat, I am coming in with a review from the perspective of someone who has not read the original trilogy. The original trilogy takes place years before this one, however, there are some characters from the original trilogy in this novel. This is explained at the beginning of the book. That being said, you do not have to read the original trilogy to enjoy this story. In fact, for the most part, I did not notice any points where I felt disoriented and wished I had read the original trilogy first. I actually read this book and thought that I wanted to read the trilogy next.

With those pieces in mind, let me give you my review. I have never read anything from this author before. I am fortunate enough to be part of the Behind the Pages influencer team, where I was able to get this ARC in return for an honest review. Almost immediately, I was drawn into a world that is fascinating in the way that it approaches supernatural creatures that have existed in our literature for centuries. The world feels like it’s modern-day without existing in our actual world.

I really enjoyed the romance in this. It was so refreshing to have an FL and ML who communicate. Let me say that one more time for the people in the back. They communicate! I wanted to give this 10/10 stars for that alone. Miscommunication is my LEAST favorite trope, and the fact that these two talk to each other and try to understand each other was absolutely amazing. We are also greeted with the “fated mates” trope, but it’s not insta-love. They work on it together, and the romance is a slow burn that’s just right (in my opinion, of course).

The story itself is entertaining, and I was pleasantly surprised at how well everything wrapped up. There was so much going on that I worried there would be some plot lines left to the wayside. Each of those threads got some sort of answer without it feeling like it was too clean and tidy. It felt like conclusions that made sense. I appreciate that especially in a standalone. I’ve often come across standalones that almost feel like they wanted a season 2 but got cancelled for poor views (as an example).

Overall, I 100% will be recommending this book to my friends. It was genuinely good, and I loved the author's writing style. I’m excited to find the time to read the trilogy and enjoy the characters I’ve met, going through their own trials and tribulations. I honestly hope to see more happen in this world, though I don’t know if that is in the cards. Either way, I’ve found another author I think I want to follow, and I look forward to any new worlds that she creates.

[Kimberly Carroll · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐ (rounded up to 4)

Okay, I'm going to be honest with you: the first half of this book had me working. Hard.

Behind the Iron Gate drops you into a world with a LOT going on — multiple immortal Orders, a recent-ish apocalypse called the Conflict, warring vampire houses, a campus murder mystery, a gossip column subplot, family feuds spanning generations, and a cast of characters big enough to need a spreadsheet. There's a "What Came Before" intro that helps, but I still spent the first 50% with my brain in catch-up mode, trying to figure out who was who and why everyone was so mad at each other.

And then the second half showed up and did the work.

Once the pieces clicked, this book moved. The murder mystery tightened, the romance stopped circling and committed, and Viviana — my beloved — got to actually wield her brain on the page. Watching her rapid-process her way through clues while everyone she loves panics around her? Cinema.

Speaking of Vivi: she's the reason I'm rounding up. Allison Carr Waechter writes a neurodivergent FMC who feels real — sensory overload at parties, an honest relationship with her own intensity, the specific exhaustion of being a "burden" to people who love you, the way information arrives wrong and at the wrong times. She's not a quirky-genius caricature. She's a person. And the way Casimir loves her — for those traits, not despite them — is the kind of romance that makes you put the book down and stare at the wall.

Also, the prose. Waechter writes ATMOSPHERE. Remiel House, the sea stairs, the library at the heart of the limen — every setting has weight and scent and texture. I'm genuinely counting down to the audiobook because this is writing that wants to be read aloud. Some of the sentences are little spells.

Things I had feelings about: the worldbuilding density (already mentioned), and the fact that this is a standalone set in an existing trilogy's universe — which I now desperately want to read, so, mission accomplished I guess?? The mystery resolution is fine but it's not the part of the book that's going to live in my head. Vivi and Cas and the prose are.

For: the sad, angry, sexy, smart babes (per the dedication, and they're not lying)

Spice: on-page and emotionally earned
Vibe: dark academia × romantasy × murder mystery × grief processing
Pet content: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Porthos the greymalkin, no further questions)

If you can push through the front-loaded worldbuilding, the back half is worth it. And I'm officially adding The Immortal Orders trilogy to my TBR.

[ThatBook Girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I went in almost blind with this ARC, and within the first few pages was already completely captivated by Vivi's character.

I went into this not having read the original trilogy, so the recap at the start was helpful for learning the history that came before this. I did still miss a lot of the references throughout, and there were characters from the series in this, but the author did a good job giving little hints about events or things the characters did previously while they were in the scene so that I didn't feel completely lost.

The FMC Vivianna is one of the best I've read in awhile. Though it's never explicitly stated, she has a lot of idiosyncrasies or traits one might associate with a person with autism. I found this was written incredibly well. The FMC has trouble relating to others, understanding social queues, understanding humour, and often gets overwhelmed in groups of people or with loud noises/bright lights etc. She wasn't written in a way that diminishes her character at all; in fact the way she thinks and sees the world is a strength, even when she feels like she is different or a burden to those around her when they need to explain things she feels she should understand on her own.

One of the things I love most about MMC Casimir is that he seems to intrinsically understand Vivi's quirks and doesn't ever push her or make her feel different or less than. In fact, he instinctly seems to know what she needs and is happy to give it to her.

The found family trope worked really well in this book. Vivi's relationship with her cousin Aurora and bff Quinn was really fun to read. They supported each other and were as close as siblings, even though Vivi felt like she didn't fit in with her pack after the death of her sister, Katriona. Once the three of them were together, it was like the insecurities and fears Vivi had previously finally started falling away.

Throughout the book is a murder mystery needing to be solved, that kept me guessing as the characters tried to uncover the truth. It was interesting and well-written, and I found myself unable to put the book down. I stayed up until 5 a.m. needing to know how the book ended.

I went into this unsure of what to expect, and concerned that I would be completely lost without having read the first three books, but I was so pleasantly surprised by how quickly I fell in love with Vivi, her friends, and this world Allison created.

[Maria J Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to start with Behind the Iron Gate because wow… this was a full 5⭐ read for me.

This story is packed with so many elements I love: romance, mystery, murders, grief, and strong dark academia vibes. At its core, there’s a vampire x witch romance that’s honestly addictive. The plot is driven by a series of killings and the loss of the protagonist’s sister, creating this underlying tension and emotional weight that never really lets go.

The worldbuilding is one of my favourite things about this book. It’s rich and layered, but never overwhelming because the author reveals everything piece by piece, like you’re slowly putting together a puzzle. And when everything finally starts to make sense towards the end… it’s incredibly satisfying to see how it all comes together.

What really made this a 5⭐ read for me were the characters. Both protagonists are dealing with grief after losing someone they love, and that shared pain creates such a deep emotional connection between them. You can feel that fated mates energy from the start, and their chemistry is just unreal. I loved getting both of their perspectives because it allowed me to truly understand them on a deeper level.

The protagonist is neurodivergent, and I genuinely think the author did an incredible job portraying her mental and social struggles. She feels raw, imperfect, and very real, which made me connect with her in a special way. One of my favourite aspects was her magical ability, she can feel the emotions left behind in books, almost hearing and sensing them, and her mind naturally connects patterns and information in a way that becomes key to the story. It was such a unique and beautifully executed concept.

The male lead completely won me over with the way he loves her. And the side characters? So well developed. This is one of those stories where you’re constantly trying to figure out how everyone fits into the bigger picture, and I loved every second of that.

Also… Porthos. The magical cat. I need one immediately. That’s it. That’s the review. 🐈

Overall, I loved everything about this book; the plot, the emotional depth, the romance, the mystery, the atmosphere… all of it. It’s immersive and addictive.

Highly, highly recommend. This one is a true gem 💎✨

Big thank you to @behindthepagespa and the author for kindly sending me an ARC of Behind the Iron Gate. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read this story early and share my thoughts 🤍✨

[HighLadyPitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are so many things I adored about this standalone novel that follows the trilogy of the “Immortal Orders” from @alisongcar There is a loveable cat familiar that protects our quirky FMC Viviana or “Vivi”. She is half wolf shifter and half sorciere (witch) who unfortunately cannot shift and feels like an outsider in her pack. This is compounded by the fact that her sister was killed under mysterious circumstances.

Now, let me introduce you to my newest book boyfriend, Casimir. He bills himself as a ruthless vampire prince that will take what he wants through any means necessary, however we quickly realize that appearances can be deceiving. He is patient and kind and strives to always do the right thing for the good of all. The vampires in this world have taken a medication called SythnOne that quells their blood lust and allows them to eat and enjoy normal food instead of constantly craving blood.

Cas and Vivi are pushed together after they discover a gruesome murder on campus which will leads their lives being irrevocably tied together. “Cas” is so emotionally intelligent and helps Viviana realize that her intensity can be accepted, loved and celebrated, not just dealt with as an annoyance. What I love most about their bond is that Cas immediately recognizes Viviana as his ‘claimed’ and supports her in every way. He even goes so far as to immediately shut down Viviana’s second guessing about his feelings for her.

To further dote on my new favorite MMC, he must deal with his emotionally immature mother who put him through an immense amount of family drama during his upbringing. His clear head helps him to set hard boundaries with the people he loves which in turn pushes them to be the best version of themselves. I also loved the evolution of Vivi during this book. Once she realizes that she can be loved, she realizes that the love (especially from her family) was always there, she just had to get out of her own way to see it.

I am thrilled to announce that I have the privilege of receiving and advanced copy of #Behindtheirongate by ! Thank you to for including me on the team!

Releasing May 5th!!! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it! I do encourage the reading of the first trilogy "Immortal Orders” to help understand the world and nuances of this excellent novel. Thank you to @allisoncarrwaechter and @behindthepagespa for including me on the ARC team!

[Ash · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crescent City Fans, consider this book the perfect fix while we wait for Book Four 🫠

📖 Behind the Iron Gate
🖋️ Allison Carr Waechter
📱Avaliable on Kindle Unlimited
📋 5⭐️ | 3🌶️

Expect…

⭐️ Witch x Vampire
⭐️ Fated Mates with Forbidden Attraction
⭐️ Divine Meddling
⭐️ Family Politics
⭐️ Dark Academia

I finished this book last night and this book is a work of art. An urban fantasy masterpiece complete with forbidden love, murder mystery, family secrets, and divine meddling all wrapped in the perfect atmospheric dark academia package.

The author’s world building draws you in immediately. I want to live in this book! You feel as though you’ve walked on to this old school Ivy League campus built on the New England seaside. It always seems to be raining, but the kind of rain you wake up to and immediately want to dive back in bed with a cup of tea and your favorite book.

The forbidden obsession between Vivi and Cas is tangible and they will quickly be your new favorite couple. With family politics standing in the way, they know better than let their immediate lingering attraction get the better of them. Their baser instincts scream otherwise and they can’t help be drawn to one another. When they finally give in, it’s messy and desperate and as the reader, so incredibly satisfying.

The campus murders will keep you on your toes. There’s a dark looming entity hovering over the couple as they race against the clock to find the truth. The assigned detective has a personal vendetta against the pair, adding to already high stakes. It’s fast, it’s twisty, and you will not be able to put it down.

The neurodivergent representation in this book is one of the things I love most about this book. Other authors please take note, this is how you write a neurodivergent FMC. It’s accurate, it’s doesn’t feel forced, and adds to the plot rather distract from it. As someone who is neurodivergent, I cannot thank the author enough for this.

Fans of urban fantasy, dark academia and forbidden love need to check this one out. If you loved Crescent City or A Discovery of Witches you will adore this book. While this is a sequel, it is a true standalone. For those of you still hesitant, the author does a fantastic job of giving you a “previously on” blurb within the introduction.

It’s my first five star read of the year and I cannot thank the author enough for allowing me to be one of the ARC readers. I am leaving my honest review voluntarily, all opinions are my own.

[Kate Bellamy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating
5/5

Spice
2/5

Did this book have me crying my eyes out at 4am in the morning when I should have been sleeping? Yes, it did, and I don't regret it. If you are looking for a fantasy with suspense, mystery and tension that will have you up all night reading, then this is the book for you. Behind the Iron Gates by Allison Carr Waechte is a standalone in the Immortal Orders series. You don't need to read the others before reading, but I would highly recommend it. Firstly, I would like to thank Allison Carr Waechter and Behind the Pages PA for giving me this ARC. Importantly, this book may contain triggering content, so please check the trigger warnings before reading.

This book will take you on a Journey through so many mysteries , challenges and curses these characters face throughout the whole story. Each character played such an important role; there were so many times when I would be guessing a certain character and their motives , trying to work out who I could trust. There were so many times when I thought we were close to getting answers, but I was wrong. The storyline was done really well, especially with the characters. The suspense in this book had me hooked; I could not put the book down after 60%. The story was very much a mix of character and plot driven. There are so many things I loved about this book, and I hope you do too.

Viviana and Casimir's story was written so beautifully. I loved seeing how their relationship bloomed throughout the book. Seeing how much they truly cared for each other, even if it was just the slightest of actions. Casimir was written so well, you could see from the moment that they meet they he would drop anything he could for her if he needed anything, and the yearning was top tier. I do have to say I loved where he would always just listen for her heartbeat to make sure she was okay and see how she was feeling, especially when he would do anything to put her mind at ease. Viviana was so well done, I loved seeing how her character grew throughout the book and how she gained back her confidence. Throughout the book, you could see how the fear of losing everything and how the past had affected her to the point that she was struggling with certain things. Overall, I loved this book and hope you read this on release day, 5/05/2026. Happy reading

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

Behind the Iron Gate: An Immortal Orders Novel (The Immortal Orders Book 4) by Allison Carr Waechter

Seeking refuge from her prominent lineage and the heartache of her sister’s death, half-witch half-wolf Viviana Krane planned to complete graduate school far from the memories of her home city of Nuva Troi. She eventually slips back into the metropolis under a cloud of scandal, hoping to finish her PhD in literature while remaining in the shadows. However, she is haunted by the nagging feeling that a vital memory has been suppressed, all while the city's power-hungry groups continue their endless maneuvering.

Simultaneously, a formidable young vampire named Casimir Sanvier descends upon the city with the intent to claim the leadership of one of its vampire houses. Although Viviana represents a perilous diversion from his goals, their paths collide when they happen upon a homicide at the university (and there might also be chocolate involved). Falsely accused of the crime, the sorceress and the vampire and their group of friends work together to expose the real killer and survive the growing threats surrounding them.

This book is set in a modern-day city with cell phones, but also is home of a boggling variety of creatures (in that, there are similarities to Crescent City). I did not read any of the other books in this series first, so it was a bit difficult to keep track of the various classifications of creatures. The author nicely provides a summary of key historical events from earlier in the series, so this isn’t a huge problem, but I do think readers who are familiar with the characters from previous books will have an easier time following the complex family dynamics, since many characters make a re-appearance in this story.

I was hooked by the mystery from the very beginning. I also appreciated that Viviana is grief-stricken and socially awkward, rather than the usual trope of brash and beautiful. There is a healthy dose of Romeo and Juliet style forbidden love, which I wish had been dragged out just a bit longer (but just because I like a slow burn, and this really wasn’t)- but I was still very satisfied with that relationship. This book is full of mythology, prejudice, political maneuvering and secrets. Overall, a 3.5-4 star read. I would recommend it for fans of A Study in Drowning, The Book of Autumn, and Deathbringer.

[Ashton V · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am so excited to be back in the world of Nuva Troi! I was obsessed with this world and the characters in The Immortal Orders series so I was pumped to see the author come out with a next generation standalone sequel. Behind the Iron Gate focuses on Viviana Krane and Casimir Marant as they stumble upon a murder mystery that brings to light even more dark secrets about this world. We thought everything was wrapped up in The Immortal Orders but when Vivi, Cas, her family, and their friends slowly unravel this deep rooted and ancient secret their lives are at risk once again.

First I loved the mystery in this story! I feel like the secrets and mystery were seamlessly woven with the history of this world. Add in the aspect of memory loss for anyone who stumbled across the secret and I was hooked. I loved seeing the flashbacks of memories throughout the stories and really felt like we are learning everything right alongside the characters. The dark academia vibes were great and really added to the tone of the story. Mixed with the creepy water interactions and this had a wonderful setting that went perfectly with the mystery.

Now one of my favorite things about Allison is how she writes her characters. They are typically so relatable and such strong characters that they always keep me invested in her stories. Between the main characters, fantastic supporting characters, and cameos of some familiar faces from TIO there was such a great range of characters that all played an important role in this story. I loved not only Vivi and Cas’ romance but also some of the secondary characters. But wow the connection between Vivi and Cas from the start was strong and I loved seeing their development. They balance each other out and that is shown perfectly throughout the story. The dual POV was great so we could see both of their feelings around their bond and keep up with each when the plot really takes off.

Overall I loved this and highly recommend it to others! Behind the Iron Gate is a fantastic modern romantasy that can be read as a standalone but I do recommend you start with The Immortal Orders so you recognize some characters and history a bit better. This world is so unique and one I’ve loved from the start. I truly hope we will see more from these characters!

[Dani's Shelf Indulgence · Rating 3 out of 5]

Behind The Iron Gate
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

First off let me say I did not do this book justice. Behind The Iron Gates, is a standalone, but it is part of an interconnected series. Unfortunately, I did not read The Immortal series before I read this, and there was a lot of information that went over my head. Because the world building, magic systems and characters had already been established, I felt like I was constantly trying to keep up, which meant that my reading wasn't as immersive, as I would have liked.

However, the storyline was amazing! I was absolutely hooked on the paranormal murder mystery!

The story is set at a gothic, creepy university. Viviana our FMC is a shifter/witch whose sister died in mysterious circumstances a few years prior. She meets Casimir (our MMC) who is a vampire, and an instant connection between the two is formed. This is a slow burn romance, which I absolutely loved. The tension, the yearning just built throughout the entirety of the book.

But what hooked me, wasn't the developing love story, it was the "who done it" murder mystery! On campus bodies keep appearing, and the murders look supernatural. Viviana and Casimir work together to figure out why these people are being murdered, and who or what is doing it. Unfortunately they begin to put targets on themselves and are considered suspects in these crimes. The clock is ticking, murders continue, and everyone around them seems to be forgetting key details that could potentially not only solve the current crimes, but also solve the mystery around Viviana's sister's death.
What unfolds is an urban fantasy lover's dream. This book has everything; every supernatural being under the sun, yearning, tension, some creepy moments, mystery, epic battle scenes, betrayal, and my favourite, a magical side kick cat! This book will hook you in and will not be able to stop reading until all the mysteries within it are solved!

This book had all the elements of 5 star read, I just slept on the previous books. Do not make my mistake, read the Immortal Series first, and then pick this bad boy up for the perfect cozy paranormal murder mystery read!

[Amanda Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ rounding up because this gave me a spark to get out of my fantasy reading slump!

I am a huge modern fantasy fan and an even bigger murder mystery fan, so automatically I knew I would at least like and enjoy this book. But I ended up loving this book because I felt like every action choice and conversation was important to the story and nothing dragged on (an issue of some other modern fantasy murder mysteries I have read👀). As soon as you got past initial introductions to the story and characters it was full steam ahead with solving this mystery, and other side mysteries that pop up on the way that are related in clever ways, all while seeing how the relationship between the leads develops.

Casimir is bad guy coded, but you learn basically immediately this is an act and Vivi has a lot of quirky traits. I deeply appreciated how Vivi's differences were often what her friends/Casimir appreciated about her and were strengths of hers at times, not weaknesses. She is very self aware and her communication with Casimir was incredible (I am personally always annoyed at simple miscommunication conflicts).

Our leads Casimir and Vivi were ones I wanted to route for. They each had their own conflicts prior to meeting and those are figured out alongside our core mystery, without the story feeling too complicated or confusing. Sometimes I did feel like their friends were so understanding and helpful they were almost too good to be true? But it did work out well for the story and I especially appreciated the backstory with Casimir and his best friend to explain why they were so close and understood each other so well.

I had not read the prior trilogy (although now I will be reading them 🤪) and I agree you can completely enjoy this book without the knowledge of the first books. There is a brief guide that I was thankful for that gave you an introduction to the world. There was a few moments at the beginning with name drops that didn't really mean anything to me, that I think might be more impactful for those who know the trilogy first.

I wanted to say a big thank you to Behind the Pages and Allison Carr Waechter for the opportunity to read this ARC. This was actually my first ARC, so it will hold a special spot in my heart ❤️

[Yolanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into Behind the Iron Gate not realizing it comes after the The Immortal Orders series… a series I have not read. And yet, this book still completely worked for me.

Yes, I’m sure there are extra layers and insights you’d get from reading the earlier series first, but not having read it did not take away from my enjoyment at all. If anything, it just made me immediately add that series to my TBR.

Also, I’ll be honest, I’m not usually a fan of fantasy set in modern times. I like my worlds far removed from reality. But this book handled it so well. The modern elements are there, phones, cars, but they never take over the story. It still feels like you’re stepping into something separate from our world, not just a magical version of it.

And the world building? Surprisingly strong, especially for a book that comes after an established series. Allison Carr Waechter weaves in the backstory and lore in such a natural way that you understand the world without ever feeling like you’re being info-dumped. It’s subtle, seamless, and really well done.

The characters were another standout. Not just the main characters, but the side characters too, they all felt fully realized and important. And the FMC? I don’t know how to explain it other than… she thinks the way I think. Reading her inner thoughts was almost a little too relatable at times.

The plot gives strong forbidden romance vibes, girl falls for boy she’s not even supposed to talk to, very Romeo and Juliet energy… but with a better outcome. Add in a series of murders happening on their college campus (and no, not teenagers, graduate students), plus the fact that she’s a witch and he’s a vampire, and you get absolute chaos in the best way.

This book was such a fun, engaging read. Mystery, magic, romance, and just enough tension to keep you turning pages.

Highly recommend, and now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go hunt down the rest of this prior series immediately.