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The Confluence’s Daughter
Seraphine Lacour just wants to grieve her mother in peace.
Velanthis has other ideas.
Something ancient has been pressing into her emotions since her mother died. The covenant holding the six courts together is failing. And her uncle Oris is circling the empty Confluence seat like he has already won.
She did not ask for any of it. She is going to have to fix it anyway. Her court and her magic depend on it.
Then there are the men. A much more enjoyable complication.
The letters. A year of them, sealed in green wax from a man who knows exactly what he wants and is waiting for her to realize the same.
I'd like to see you. Properly. Not across a council table. Not in passing. Just you. And if that's too forward, blame the hour. It's still dark here, and the sea is loud this morning. It makes honesty easier.
The debt-arbiter who cannot lie and looks at her like she is the only puzzle worth solving.
Friends who make sure she does not face any of it alone.
Welcome to Velanthis, where she never has to choose.
The Confluence's Daughter
Book One of the Velanthis Standalone Duet
The Bindings of Elorion
Perfect for fans of:
Why choose
FMC 30+
Cinnamon roll MMC
Political stakes
Found family
Fae magic
Slow burn
Open door spice
Velanthis has other ideas.
Something ancient has been pressing into her emotions since her mother died. The covenant holding the six courts together is failing. And her uncle Oris is circling the empty Confluence seat like he has already won.
She did not ask for any of it. She is going to have to fix it anyway. Her court and her magic depend on it.
Then there are the men. A much more enjoyable complication.
The letters. A year of them, sealed in green wax from a man who knows exactly what he wants and is waiting for her to realize the same.
I'd like to see you. Properly. Not across a council table. Not in passing. Just you. And if that's too forward, blame the hour. It's still dark here, and the sea is loud this morning. It makes honesty easier.
The debt-arbiter who cannot lie and looks at her like she is the only puzzle worth solving.
Friends who make sure she does not face any of it alone.
Welcome to Velanthis, where she never has to choose.
The Confluence's Daughter
Book One of the Velanthis Standalone Duet
The Bindings of Elorion
Perfect for fans of:
Why choose
FMC 30+
Cinnamon roll MMC
Political stakes
Found family
Fae magic
Slow burn
Open door spice
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 1, 2026
This was a different type of fantasy romance that I have ever read. The magic system was complex and it took me some time to grasp how it worked, but once it clicked, I was completely fascinated by it. It was creative and unique. The prologue was a huge help in understanding the story and world-building. I found myself diverting back to the prologue to understand certain events throughout the book better.
My favorite part of this book is Seraphine herself! Being an empath, I really enjoyed experiencing the story through the perspective of another empath. I loved reading of her true potential during the contest. I was applauding her skills and talent on reading people. Truly the best element to this story!
Thank you to A.J. Lorne for this ARC ✨
My favorite part of this book is Seraphine herself! Being an empath, I really enjoyed experiencing the story through the perspective of another empath. I loved reading of her true potential during the contest. I was applauding her skills and talent on reading people. Truly the best element to this story!
Thank you to A.J. Lorne for this ARC ✨
April 7, 2026
I truly enjoyed and loved this book and I feel everyone should read it! I cannot wait for the next one!! It has The perfect amount of emotions like grief, love, anger, etc. I could not put it down! I don’t want to give any spoilers, but I will say that I love seraphine so much and everything that she’s gone through and how she’s overcoming everything and all the amazing people at her side to help her win for her people. A true work of art.
Read
May 18, 2026This book hit different. It was the first time I have ever read anything that remotely comes close to what it feels like to be an empath. The way the author describes energy and emotion in every turn , really draws you in through the end. And then she slaps you with an ending leaving you needing more!
I feel like this is a book you race through to get the whole story but then read again to take it all in.
I feel like this is a book you race through to get the whole story but then read again to take it all in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was grateful to receive an ARC copy of this book from the author A.J. Lorne, and this is my honest review of her book: The Confluence’s Daughter.
The story has great world-building and we are introduced to the six courts and the failing covenant early on. The FMC Seraphine is forced into a position she never asked for, and watching her fight for her court and her magic was exciting. Seraphine is so well written and it was an instant connection for me with her character. Now, let’s talk about the men! I felt Ryn was a tad vanilla at first, but he surprised me…. Zoryn is deep and intense. They are interesting and not what I expected. I found them easy to like. If you ask me to choose, it’s hard, but I could be leaning towards team Zoryn! However I need to wait for book 2 before I can make my mind up! I’m looking forward to seeing how things play out. Without dropping spoilers, let’s just say the tension is exquisite at times 😉
I really like A.J’s writing style. It’s light and fun but it’s also passionate and deeply descriptive… she doesn't just describe the characters feelings; she makes you feel the weight of every choice they have to make. From the very first page, you can honestly feel the weight of that ancient pressure Seraphine carries after her mother’s death. A.J writes beautifully about grief and the weight of it in a way that feels incredibly real. It’s not just a story with a fantasy plot; it’s a lesson in how we carry and manage what we never asked for and Seraphine does it well in my opinion. Thanks for trusting me to ARC for you A.J!! This is a great book and you balanced nicely the cut-throat court politics with tender, nuanced exploration of complex emotions. For those of you reading this review, if you love high fantasy with soul, this is your next favorite read.
The story has great world-building and we are introduced to the six courts and the failing covenant early on. The FMC Seraphine is forced into a position she never asked for, and watching her fight for her court and her magic was exciting. Seraphine is so well written and it was an instant connection for me with her character. Now, let’s talk about the men! I felt Ryn was a tad vanilla at first, but he surprised me…. Zoryn is deep and intense. They are interesting and not what I expected. I found them easy to like. If you ask me to choose, it’s hard, but I could be leaning towards team Zoryn! However I need to wait for book 2 before I can make my mind up! I’m looking forward to seeing how things play out. Without dropping spoilers, let’s just say the tension is exquisite at times 😉
I really like A.J’s writing style. It’s light and fun but it’s also passionate and deeply descriptive… she doesn't just describe the characters feelings; she makes you feel the weight of every choice they have to make. From the very first page, you can honestly feel the weight of that ancient pressure Seraphine carries after her mother’s death. A.J writes beautifully about grief and the weight of it in a way that feels incredibly real. It’s not just a story with a fantasy plot; it’s a lesson in how we carry and manage what we never asked for and Seraphine does it well in my opinion. Thanks for trusting me to ARC for you A.J!! This is a great book and you balanced nicely the cut-throat court politics with tender, nuanced exploration of complex emotions. For those of you reading this review, if you love high fantasy with soul, this is your next favorite read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy SCHMOLY!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was hands-down a 5 star read. Absolutely amazed by the world that the author created and I cannot wait for Book 2 in the series!
First of all, thank you to the author for trusting me with their arc and allowing me to review! This story follows Sera, our FMC, who feet up in Velathis and knew of nothing but her mother as the Confluence. That is, until her mother’s health declines at an unexpected rate and she passes. Sera must follow her understandings of her gift to explore why Velanthis feels so different, a strange pull that is only getting stronger as time goes on, affecting the people and home she loves. She’s faced with decisons that she never wanted, but with a fierce crew of people who support her!
This book is a deep dive into the relationship between Sera (FMC) and her home in Velathis, her relationship with her own grief and her relationship with her friends and romantic interests. It’s packed with adventure, mystery, romance and just the right amount of angst that made me turn page after page! (Even into the A.M.). I loved Sera’s friends! Specifically Vesper. I loved her energy, her guidance and her grounding presence. You’ll truly feel transported to a different world when reading 💜 I also loved the way the author really transformed into each character when writing their POV, it was so seemless and really changed the mindset I had when reading each character. CANNOT WAIT FOR MORE!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was hands-down a 5 star read. Absolutely amazed by the world that the author created and I cannot wait for Book 2 in the series!
First of all, thank you to the author for trusting me with their arc and allowing me to review! This story follows Sera, our FMC, who feet up in Velathis and knew of nothing but her mother as the Confluence. That is, until her mother’s health declines at an unexpected rate and she passes. Sera must follow her understandings of her gift to explore why Velanthis feels so different, a strange pull that is only getting stronger as time goes on, affecting the people and home she loves. She’s faced with decisons that she never wanted, but with a fierce crew of people who support her!
This book is a deep dive into the relationship between Sera (FMC) and her home in Velathis, her relationship with her own grief and her relationship with her friends and romantic interests. It’s packed with adventure, mystery, romance and just the right amount of angst that made me turn page after page! (Even into the A.M.). I loved Sera’s friends! Specifically Vesper. I loved her energy, her guidance and her grounding presence. You’ll truly feel transported to a different world when reading 💜 I also loved the way the author really transformed into each character when writing their POV, it was so seemless and really changed the mindset I had when reading each character. CANNOT WAIT FOR MORE!!
June 14, 2026
A fresh take on the fantasy genre. Fae and magic as you’ve never experienced before. Over the many regions of Elorion, the fae were each given a special gift to the people of that part of the land. Although these gifts can bring about great change when brought together, they also can stir political unrest.
The Confluence’s Daughter was a fast-paced story, heavy with emotion, political unrest, found family, and the learning to accept and be yourself. The FMC was complex, wrapped in grief, with reluctance to look to the future. She struggled letting the people she cared for get past the walls she had built around herself. Luckily, our golden retriever, MMC, was always right there when she needed him without pushing her beyond her comfort zone.
The world-building was beautifully done. Each region was unique and special when we visited. You truly felt like you were standing in the gardens or sitting in the confluence’s study. Truly unique to this novel is that every chapter begins with a chord that is playable, so you may set the tone for that chapter.
Buckle up and get ready for a slow burn. Don’t make me choose. All the women are badasses. Wild ride of a story.
I can’t wait to jump back into Velanthis in book 2!
The Confluence’s Daughter was a fast-paced story, heavy with emotion, political unrest, found family, and the learning to accept and be yourself. The FMC was complex, wrapped in grief, with reluctance to look to the future. She struggled letting the people she cared for get past the walls she had built around herself. Luckily, our golden retriever, MMC, was always right there when she needed him without pushing her beyond her comfort zone.
The world-building was beautifully done. Each region was unique and special when we visited. You truly felt like you were standing in the gardens or sitting in the confluence’s study. Truly unique to this novel is that every chapter begins with a chord that is playable, so you may set the tone for that chapter.
Buckle up and get ready for a slow burn. Don’t make me choose. All the women are badasses. Wild ride of a story.
I can’t wait to jump back into Velanthis in book 2!
May 4, 2026
This story completely swept me away. From the very first page, it strikes a perfect balance between fantasy and familiarity, creating a world that feels both magical and deeply relatable. The characters may be fantastical, but their emotions, struggles, and relationships feel incredibly real.
Seraphine quickly became one of my favorite female main characters. She’s beautifully flawed in a way that makes her compelling and authentic, and her growth throughout the story is captivating. The supporting cast is just as strong—each character adds depth without ever feeling secondary or forgettable.
The plot grips you early and doesn’t let go. It’s filled with mystery, adventure, and intrigue, layered with complex family dynamics, political tension, and rich fae magic. Add in elements of passion, love, and a perfectly executed love triangle, and it hits every note you could want in this genre.
This is the kind of book that keeps you turning pages late into the night, fully invested until the very last line.
Seraphine quickly became one of my favorite female main characters. She’s beautifully flawed in a way that makes her compelling and authentic, and her growth throughout the story is captivating. The supporting cast is just as strong—each character adds depth without ever feeling secondary or forgettable.
The plot grips you early and doesn’t let go. It’s filled with mystery, adventure, and intrigue, layered with complex family dynamics, political tension, and rich fae magic. Add in elements of passion, love, and a perfectly executed love triangle, and it hits every note you could want in this genre.
This is the kind of book that keeps you turning pages late into the night, fully invested until the very last line.
May 14, 2026
I really enjoyed this book, its different to my usual genre but I got sucked in.
I really enjoyed the dual POV between Sera and Ryn, with a few others thrown in throughout the story. Sera, our FMC is working out her place in the world after the loss of her mother and not afraid to say what she thinks! Ryn is so lovely and there to support her when needed. I really enjoyed the world building and seeing their relationship blossom throughout.
I felt the story really picked up in the second half and I could not put it down after that. Plus a little bit of spice thrown in for good measure.
The cliffhanger made me eager for book 2, I really want to know what happens next!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy and this is my honest review
I really enjoyed the dual POV between Sera and Ryn, with a few others thrown in throughout the story. Sera, our FMC is working out her place in the world after the loss of her mother and not afraid to say what she thinks! Ryn is so lovely and there to support her when needed. I really enjoyed the world building and seeing their relationship blossom throughout.
I felt the story really picked up in the second half and I could not put it down after that. Plus a little bit of spice thrown in for good measure.
The cliffhanger made me eager for book 2, I really want to know what happens next!
Thank you to the author for the advanced copy and this is my honest review
July 6, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for sending me this book!
This felt very different and unique compared to the fantasy books I’ve been reading lately. The way that Seraphine feels the emotions around here so strongly was so interesting. Or when she’s connected to a person she can feel them over great distances. She’s forced into this (kinda) job that she didn’t ask for and doesn’t want so we follow along as she’s learning to navigate the courts.
Don’t even get me started on Ryn and Zoryn! I was loving both of them for completely different reason and refuse to pick one! The extra little details AJ puts into her books with the character art is what definitely sold me on this book! If you havnt checked it out you should!
This felt very different and unique compared to the fantasy books I’ve been reading lately. The way that Seraphine feels the emotions around here so strongly was so interesting. Or when she’s connected to a person she can feel them over great distances. She’s forced into this (kinda) job that she didn’t ask for and doesn’t want so we follow along as she’s learning to navigate the courts.
Don’t even get me started on Ryn and Zoryn! I was loving both of them for completely different reason and refuse to pick one! The extra little details AJ puts into her books with the character art is what definitely sold me on this book! If you havnt checked it out you should!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
A richly woven fantasy that blends political intrigue, emotional depth, and slow-burning romantic tension. The Confluence’s Daughter follows Seraphine Lacour as grief collides with duty, ancient power, and a court on the edge of collapse. The world-building in Velanthis is immersive, with layered factions and a compelling sense of stakes that steadily build throughout the story.
What stands out most is the balance between high fantasy conflict and intimate character dynamics, especially the varied relationships that shape Seraphine’s journey. Fans of character-driven fantasy with romance, court politics, and found family elements will find this an engaging start to the Velanthis saga.
What stands out most is the balance between high fantasy conflict and intimate character dynamics, especially the varied relationships that shape Seraphine’s journey. Fans of character-driven fantasy with romance, court politics, and found family elements will find this an engaging start to the Velanthis saga.
May 12, 2026
🌶️🌶️
AJ Lorne clearly puts a lot of effort into her world building, and I love it. This is one of those reads where even the little details are important. Despite going through grief, and essentially being drained left and right by her circumstances, Seraphine is an intelligent, and independent FMC, without being a physical fighter. The romance is a great addition without, being the main focus, and the storyline is enjoyable. I would like to have seen more of the gifts of the other characters when in their pov, but hopefully in the continuation of the books we will see more of it happen.
Many thanks to AJ for sending letting me be an ARC reader.
AJ Lorne clearly puts a lot of effort into her world building, and I love it. This is one of those reads where even the little details are important. Despite going through grief, and essentially being drained left and right by her circumstances, Seraphine is an intelligent, and independent FMC, without being a physical fighter. The romance is a great addition without, being the main focus, and the storyline is enjoyable. I would like to have seen more of the gifts of the other characters when in their pov, but hopefully in the continuation of the books we will see more of it happen.
Many thanks to AJ for sending letting me be an ARC reader.
May 12, 2026
The Confluence's Daughter is a fantasy novel that stands out mainly for its worldbuilding and atmospheric tone. It follows a protagonist connected to the mysterious “Confluence,” exploring themes of magic, fate, and inner conflict.
The strongest aspect of the book is its immersive setting and mythological depth, which create a rich and layered universe. However, the pacing is relatively slow, with a focus on introspection and description rather than constant action.
Overall, it’s a character-driven and atmospheric fantasy story, best suited for readers who enjoy deep worldbuilding and emotional exploration over fast-paced plots.
The strongest aspect of the book is its immersive setting and mythological depth, which create a rich and layered universe. However, the pacing is relatively slow, with a focus on introspection and description rather than constant action.
Overall, it’s a character-driven and atmospheric fantasy story, best suited for readers who enjoy deep worldbuilding and emotional exploration over fast-paced plots.
June 17, 2026
OMG this was such a great read! Welcome to the world of Seraphine our FMC who is forced into a position she never asked for after her mother passes. It’s a gripping romantasy tale that will grab you from the start and not let go. Incredible world building, a strong and relatable FMC and a fast paced storyline that has you glued to the edge of your seat. Magic, adventure, mystery and romance are just some of the things you will experience along with the political intrigue and emotions. Had me hooked from start to finish and I cannot wait to read more!
June 4, 2026
Ancient power
Wow. From the first page to the last one you feel like your in the story. Seraphine has lost her mother. Two years of grieving and a uncle who thinks he should have the seat. But when seraphine starts to dig for answers nothing is making sense at first. Of why the courts are failing about her mother's death. Can't give any more spoilers you just need to read this story. Trust me you will be so glad you did.
Wow. From the first page to the last one you feel like your in the story. Seraphine has lost her mother. Two years of grieving and a uncle who thinks he should have the seat. But when seraphine starts to dig for answers nothing is making sense at first. Of why the courts are failing about her mother's death. Can't give any more spoilers you just need to read this story. Trust me you will be so glad you did.
June 4, 2026
Wow. From the first page till the end you just feel like you're in the story. Seraphine has lost her mother,it's been two years now the uncle wants the seat for himself for power. With some help seraphine learns that her mother's death wasn't what it seemed and she is doing a full investigation of why the six courts are failing. But no more spoilers from me. You just have to read it yourself and get lost in the world of Velanthis
May 30, 2026
ARC REVIEW
⭐️⭐️⭐️
It took me a while to get into this book and get my head round the world building - I haven’t read anything with this sort of magic system before but it was nice to read a different concept.
The characters are intriguing, especially Zoryn and I’m not sure how his role will progress.
Overall it didn’t pull me in but I’m interested to see how where the story goes!
⭐️⭐️⭐️
It took me a while to get into this book and get my head round the world building - I haven’t read anything with this sort of magic system before but it was nice to read a different concept.
The characters are intriguing, especially Zoryn and I’m not sure how his role will progress.
Overall it didn’t pull me in but I’m interested to see how where the story goes!
June 18, 2026
An amazing read!
I love the way A.J. wove this unique story with political intrigue and different magical abilities. Experiencing Seraphina's emotions and going into a position she never wanted kept me emotionally connected. And the men....oh my. There isn't just one thing to love about the book. The problem is that I need book 2!!
I love the way A.J. wove this unique story with political intrigue and different magical abilities. Experiencing Seraphina's emotions and going into a position she never wanted kept me emotionally connected. And the men....oh my. There isn't just one thing to love about the book. The problem is that I need book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received this book as an ARC and really enjoyed meeting the characters, it started slow but built into fast paced drama, really looking forward to finding out what happens next and how Sera will handle things.
May 13, 2026
I loved this book!!! ❤️ The interest level is top tier 👌 within the first few pages I was hooked. I loved Seraphine Journey in this book. I can't wait to read book two!!! 😊 Absolutely recommend reading this book ♥️
Thank you so much for the ARC A.J Lorne.
Thank you so much for the ARC A.J Lorne.
August 3, 2026
Absolutely loved Book One, in this series. A. J. Lorne has an authentic effortless writing style that flows and flows. Depth and such description that will have pages turning and turning. A warrior , Seraphine Lacour will steal your heart and open it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I dont think I've ever finished a book so quickly because I couldn't wait to see what happened next. A.J did an amazing job bringing this world to life. The story telling and depth she put into this book is astounding. Its giving "fourth wing scribes quadrant". I cannot wait for the next book to see what Ryn does. 💙
October 9, 2026
Excellent start to a new series!
Wow! This book had me riveted from start to finish! It was fast paced, well written, and entirely too short! It was great!
Wow! This book had me riveted from start to finish! It was fast paced, well written, and entirely too short! It was great!
Review of advance copy received from Author
All Seraphina wants to do is grieve and discover what her mother was researching before her passing. Unfortunately others have plans of their own and there still a seat to fill.
Seraphina goes on journey that only begins in this book. She uncovers her mother's work, love for another and so much more.
I enjoyed this book and ready for more of this story.
Seraphina goes on journey that only begins in this book. She uncovers her mother's work, love for another and so much more.
I enjoyed this book and ready for more of this story.
May 13, 2026
I honestly didn’t expect to get so attached to this story, but The Confluence’s Daughter by A.J Lorne, made me want to keep reading even when it was over. The mix of grief, magic, politics, and romance felt so emotional without being overwhelming, and I really connected with Seraphine as a character. She’s trying to hold herself together while everything around her is falling apart, and that made her feel very real to me.
The letters throughout the story were probably my favorite part. They added such a personal and emotional layer that made me want to keep reading “just one more chapter.” The tension, the mystery, and the relationships all blended together so well.
The world-building was detailed but still easy to follow, which I appreciated because fantasy books can sometimes feel too heavy for me. This one kept me interested the whole time. If you like fantasy with emotional depth, court politics, magic, and romance, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a chance.
The letters throughout the story were probably my favorite part. They added such a personal and emotional layer that made me want to keep reading “just one more chapter.” The tension, the mystery, and the relationships all blended together so well.
The world-building was detailed but still easy to follow, which I appreciated because fantasy books can sometimes feel too heavy for me. This one kept me interested the whole time. If you like fantasy with emotional depth, court politics, magic, and romance, I’d definitely recommend giving this one a chance.
June 7, 2026
This was such a fantastic romantasy debut with one of the most original worlds and such incredibly beautiful writing.
When I started reading I immediately knew I would want to grab my tabs to annotate this. There was such care and thought put into explaining the world, peoples/cultures, and magic systems.
Sera, our FMC, is strong in a very real, very human way. She’s an empath but she uses her empathy to relate to others. Her softness is what makes her strong. There are explorations of grief and what makes one “strong”.
And our god tier supportive book boyfriend Ryn? I adored how he supported Sera. Their entire relationship is built on respect, support, and communication. But when the spice happens? Ryn is 🔥. I can’t wait to see how her relationship with Zoryn develops too.
I need book 2 immediately.
When I started reading I immediately knew I would want to grab my tabs to annotate this. There was such care and thought put into explaining the world, peoples/cultures, and magic systems.
Sera, our FMC, is strong in a very real, very human way. She’s an empath but she uses her empathy to relate to others. Her softness is what makes her strong. There are explorations of grief and what makes one “strong”.
And our god tier supportive book boyfriend Ryn? I adored how he supported Sera. Their entire relationship is built on respect, support, and communication. But when the spice happens? Ryn is 🔥. I can’t wait to see how her relationship with Zoryn develops too.
I need book 2 immediately.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews