What do you think?
Threads of Fate #1
The Spark of Rebellion
Not yet published
Expected 6 Oct 26He took everything from her.
Now, she’s the one thing he cannot control.
For centuries, the Empire of Eternal Dawn has ruled Aethrandis with an iron fist. Purity is law. Male obedience, carved into skin. Yet women who wield power are hunted. Silenced. Dragged off to the pyre and burned.
Arianwen Fenwyck was never meant to exist.
A woman who breathes smoke. Bends light. Touches the fabric of Veil itself.
Evander Valcour was never meant to falter.
The Empire’s perfect weapon. Forged from ink and discipline. Engineered to obey – never question.
When their paths collide, a spark ignites.
She carries magic the Empire has ruthlessly spent centuries trying to extinguish.
He is oath-bound to destroy it.
She kept herself alive by disappearing.
He survived by feeling nothing at all.
And yet –
He can’t stop searching for her.
What awakens between them is not salvation. It's a slow, dangerous unravelling – of loyalty, identity, and every lie the Empire ever wrote into history and dared call truth.
You will lose what matters most.
You will hate him, before you begin to understand why.
And when the world burns –
It will be the one moment you never saw coming.
An empire-shattering epic fantasy romance, where love is not the reprieve.
It's the weapon.
If you were looking for safety, you came to the wrong story.
Now, she’s the one thing he cannot control.
For centuries, the Empire of Eternal Dawn has ruled Aethrandis with an iron fist. Purity is law. Male obedience, carved into skin. Yet women who wield power are hunted. Silenced. Dragged off to the pyre and burned.
Arianwen Fenwyck was never meant to exist.
A woman who breathes smoke. Bends light. Touches the fabric of Veil itself.
Evander Valcour was never meant to falter.
The Empire’s perfect weapon. Forged from ink and discipline. Engineered to obey – never question.
When their paths collide, a spark ignites.
She carries magic the Empire has ruthlessly spent centuries trying to extinguish.
He is oath-bound to destroy it.
She kept herself alive by disappearing.
He survived by feeling nothing at all.
And yet –
He can’t stop searching for her.
What awakens between them is not salvation. It's a slow, dangerous unravelling – of loyalty, identity, and every lie the Empire ever wrote into history and dared call truth.
You will lose what matters most.
You will hate him, before you begin to understand why.
And when the world burns –
It will be the one moment you never saw coming.
An empire-shattering epic fantasy romance, where love is not the reprieve.
It's the weapon.
If you were looking for safety, you came to the wrong story.
622 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication October 6, 2026
About the author
J.A. Williams
2 books74 followersJ.A. Williams grew up in a family of female rebels, learning early what happens when women enter arenas where they are not welcome. That knowledge carried her through decades of work in law in the top levels of finance in The City of London, alongside life as a military spouse during times of war and global upheaval.
Then came the moment.
The one where she stopped asking for permission.
The one where she said F*** it.
She pivoted, walking away from a career that no longer served her to become an author, where genre conventions told her to pick a lane.
She flat out refused.
She couldn’t find the book she wanted on any shelf. So she wrote it.
Fantasy that isn’t decorative. Politics which are intimate yet costly. Romance that’s sensual. And stories that refuse to flinch.
Threads of Fate is the result.
Five books.
The first of many.
A dark fantasy universe where romance drives stories that stay with you long after the last page…
Written for readers who are tired of choosing between depth and desire – who have been waiting for someone else to refuse to compromise.
She lives in England with her husband, their four boys, along with one extremely opinionated French Bulldog named Coco. Her spare time is spent plotting the next uprising between school runs, over strongly brewed tea.
Then came the moment.
The one where she stopped asking for permission.
The one where she said F*** it.
She pivoted, walking away from a career that no longer served her to become an author, where genre conventions told her to pick a lane.
She flat out refused.
She couldn’t find the book she wanted on any shelf. So she wrote it.
Fantasy that isn’t decorative. Politics which are intimate yet costly. Romance that’s sensual. And stories that refuse to flinch.
Threads of Fate is the result.
Five books.
The first of many.
A dark fantasy universe where romance drives stories that stay with you long after the last page…
Written for readers who are tired of choosing between depth and desire – who have been waiting for someone else to refuse to compromise.
She lives in England with her husband, their four boys, along with one extremely opinionated French Bulldog named Coco. Her spare time is spent plotting the next uprising between school runs, over strongly brewed tea.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review of Spark of the Rebellion by J.A. Williams:
"I sang to the smoke that took my name, It carried my cradle, it carried my flame. No god will answer the cry of a Queen, Only the ash knows what might have been. So keep my breath where the stars can’t see – What burned in me now burns in thee…"
In a world where women with magic are burned at the stake, and men with magic taken, tattooed and trained as an Elite fighting force, one moment sparks the fire needed to topple an Empire.
"Each word, crafted to land with the force of a blow."
Just as in that statement, this book does just that. Style and imagery woven together meticulously, each word chosen wisely for just the right meaning to come through. Every place traveled to, every scene laid out, every character described with finesse that seaps into your mind like a director choreographing images on a screen. There is a vividness to the language and sentence structure that set the pace for every chapter, every breath. Characters that come to life more as time passes. You get to see all the intricacies of humanity lined through the pages. Dialog that fits perfectly into every moment. Banter that is off the charts.
“The truth isn’t forged by crowns. It’s born the moment someone refuses to kneel to the lies."
This story is about being seen and having choice. Not just from others, but by ourselves, too. Seeing all the pain and the flaws. All the strength and the core of what we build ourselves into. In being seen by others for who we truly are, and not what people say we are. In having the choice to decide our fates instead of them being dictated. In the magic and power that comes from finding who you genuinely are and seeing that same understanding in the eyes looking back at you. At the freedom found in choice alone. In standing up when they tell you you should be bowing down. And not apologizing for it.
This is a 5☆ debut novel that will leave you reeling. Mrs. Williams, you have a fan for life. The way you have been through this entire process, the woman that you are in your core where it matters, resonates in everything you touch. Thank you for allowing me to be an early part of this book's journey and for trusting my opinions of it. Just know that I mean this from my very core, "I see you."
"I sang to the smoke that took my name, It carried my cradle, it carried my flame. No god will answer the cry of a Queen, Only the ash knows what might have been. So keep my breath where the stars can’t see – What burned in me now burns in thee…"
In a world where women with magic are burned at the stake, and men with magic taken, tattooed and trained as an Elite fighting force, one moment sparks the fire needed to topple an Empire.
"Each word, crafted to land with the force of a blow."
Just as in that statement, this book does just that. Style and imagery woven together meticulously, each word chosen wisely for just the right meaning to come through. Every place traveled to, every scene laid out, every character described with finesse that seaps into your mind like a director choreographing images on a screen. There is a vividness to the language and sentence structure that set the pace for every chapter, every breath. Characters that come to life more as time passes. You get to see all the intricacies of humanity lined through the pages. Dialog that fits perfectly into every moment. Banter that is off the charts.
“The truth isn’t forged by crowns. It’s born the moment someone refuses to kneel to the lies."
This story is about being seen and having choice. Not just from others, but by ourselves, too. Seeing all the pain and the flaws. All the strength and the core of what we build ourselves into. In being seen by others for who we truly are, and not what people say we are. In having the choice to decide our fates instead of them being dictated. In the magic and power that comes from finding who you genuinely are and seeing that same understanding in the eyes looking back at you. At the freedom found in choice alone. In standing up when they tell you you should be bowing down. And not apologizing for it.
This is a 5☆ debut novel that will leave you reeling. Mrs. Williams, you have a fan for life. The way you have been through this entire process, the woman that you are in your core where it matters, resonates in everything you touch. Thank you for allowing me to be an early part of this book's journey and for trusting my opinions of it. Just know that I mean this from my very core, "I see you."
Review of advance copy received from Author
DNF @ 40%
Thank you for the ARC but unfortunately I think I have to tap out of this one.
The writing has a really lyrical almost poetic style to it and while there are some genuinely beautiful lines, I found that the actual story kept getting lost underneath it. Everything is written to sound profound or atmospheric but I was struggling to understand the world, the magic system or even what Aria and Evander could actually do. At some point I realised I was skimming more than I was reading because there just wasn’t enough clear progression to keep me invested.
I also couldn’t get into the relationship between Aria and Evander. There’s a LOT of talk about lust, desire and this pull they have towards each other all wrapped up in the enemies to lovers dynamic but I didn’t feel like their actual relationship was developing alongside it. I get that the tension is kind of the whole point of the trope but here it just felt sloppy.
There may well be a payoff later on but unfortunately I wasn’t interested enough to stick around for it.
Thank you for the ARC but unfortunately I think I have to tap out of this one.
The writing has a really lyrical almost poetic style to it and while there are some genuinely beautiful lines, I found that the actual story kept getting lost underneath it. Everything is written to sound profound or atmospheric but I was struggling to understand the world, the magic system or even what Aria and Evander could actually do. At some point I realised I was skimming more than I was reading because there just wasn’t enough clear progression to keep me invested.
I also couldn’t get into the relationship between Aria and Evander. There’s a LOT of talk about lust, desire and this pull they have towards each other all wrapped up in the enemies to lovers dynamic but I didn’t feel like their actual relationship was developing alongside it. I get that the tension is kind of the whole point of the trope but here it just felt sloppy.
There may well be a payoff later on but unfortunately I wasn’t interested enough to stick around for it.
Did Not Finish
September 17, 2026DNF at 35%. There is some epic world building in this book, but this book just wasn’t for me. The character art is amazing, so if you’re looking for a hot commander to pine after, I do recommend this book. Evander is hot AF. The FMC is also pretty badass, so definitely expect some tension between the two 😉
September 14, 2026
Thank you to the author for my advanced copy. This book has all the right ingredients to be amazing - the art, the cover, the tropes. It started out really strong in the first few chapters, and then it really slowed down for me.
The writing was beautiful, maybe a little too poetic and flowy for me at times. I found myself having to go back a re-read sections to make sure I understood what was happening. I also did not fully connect with the characters until the very end.
I really am intrigued in how the story continues. What brought this from a 3 to 4 ⭐️ for me was the last quarter. I felt like a lot happened and I got more excited at where the story is headed. I also hope we see more of and learn more about the side characters (Riven, Sebastian, Alaric) in future books.
The writing was beautiful, maybe a little too poetic and flowy for me at times. I found myself having to go back a re-read sections to make sure I understood what was happening. I also did not fully connect with the characters until the very end.
I really am intrigued in how the story continues. What brought this from a 3 to 4 ⭐️ for me was the last quarter. I felt like a lot happened and I got more excited at where the story is headed. I also hope we see more of and learn more about the side characters (Riven, Sebastian, Alaric) in future books.
August 15, 2026
This book was amazing! I felt all the feels. It’s was a rollercoaster of emotion that dug in so deep. The descriptions and writing were amazing, I could perfectly picture the entire story in my mind. And that ending!!! Please tell me book 2 is coming soon! I need it now!
August 6, 2026
I'm not here to tell you who you will like, love, hate and who you will not for the same three.
I'm here to tell you that time moves differently after finishing this book. Ok, I'm being dramatic, but am I though? No really, I'm not.
The VISCERAL, I mean VISCERAL reactions I had to a character that was introduced > than 60% is quite comical. Equally, explain to me how you can get attached to a character that enters the same chat at 67% in a book? I'm talking one of my favorite characters. Formerly submitting my change.org petition to have J.A. write her, her own novella.
This book is like a perfectly orchestrated chess game with moves appearing on the board when you LEAST expect them, but in this case they're characters, and a plot that is anything but linear, and writing so absolutely captivating, it'll leave you with aftershocks for weeks on end.
It's impressive how seamlessly J.A. blends the lore into the plot. And if I'm a lover, it's a lover of world building and lore. It can make or break a book for me. And this one has both that addictive quality, leaving you fiending for more and one that you can't quite describe, begging you to drag it out so that it lasts, just so.
This is NOT a lore dump at the beginning, I REPEAT not a lore dump. It's learning the lore as the characters themselves learn it, beautifully and neatly woven into the plot - no notes.
And how to even begin to describe the grief (you will sob), yearning (you will gasp), and true, TRUE enemies-to-lovers where you won't be able to possibly fathom how she will end up wanting to be in the same room, much less same bed with this man. It's an exceptionally emotional story written in first person multi-POV.
I've never had more anxiety finishing the last 40 mins of a book as I have with this one. This is likely the one where you started with a glass of wine, and ended up finishing the entire bottle.
And now this is one of my favorite books I've read all year. Desperately waiting for the special edition announcement, you know, the one where you might have to pay $22 in shipping. Sir, I'll gladly pay it.
I'm here to tell you that time moves differently after finishing this book. Ok, I'm being dramatic, but am I though? No really, I'm not.
The VISCERAL, I mean VISCERAL reactions I had to a character that was introduced > than 60% is quite comical. Equally, explain to me how you can get attached to a character that enters the same chat at 67% in a book? I'm talking one of my favorite characters. Formerly submitting my change.org petition to have J.A. write her, her own novella.
This book is like a perfectly orchestrated chess game with moves appearing on the board when you LEAST expect them, but in this case they're characters, and a plot that is anything but linear, and writing so absolutely captivating, it'll leave you with aftershocks for weeks on end.
It's impressive how seamlessly J.A. blends the lore into the plot. And if I'm a lover, it's a lover of world building and lore. It can make or break a book for me. And this one has both that addictive quality, leaving you fiending for more and one that you can't quite describe, begging you to drag it out so that it lasts, just so.
This is NOT a lore dump at the beginning, I REPEAT not a lore dump. It's learning the lore as the characters themselves learn it, beautifully and neatly woven into the plot - no notes.
And how to even begin to describe the grief (you will sob), yearning (you will gasp), and true, TRUE enemies-to-lovers where you won't be able to possibly fathom how she will end up wanting to be in the same room, much less same bed with this man. It's an exceptionally emotional story written in first person multi-POV.
I've never had more anxiety finishing the last 40 mins of a book as I have with this one. This is likely the one where you started with a glass of wine, and ended up finishing the entire bottle.
And now this is one of my favorite books I've read all year. Desperately waiting for the special edition announcement, you know, the one where you might have to pay $22 in shipping. Sir, I'll gladly pay it.
September 27, 2026
Thank you to the author for the advance readers copy
I was blown away by this story!!! You must read the novella Bound by Smoke and Ink to understand a little of the backstory. The world building was beautifully written where I was able to picture the scenes. The magic system is unique and leaves the reader wanting to know more about it. This story is perfect for those who enjoyed the Throne of Glass Series, with its deep corrupt system, the fighting, a rebellion, and lots of loss.
Now the FMC, Arianwen, and the MMC, Evander, are enemies, but there is a fine line between love and hate. There’s just enough eveil and people wanting power to keep them from each other. Both Evander and Arianwen will do just about anything to protect each other.
The story ends on a cliffhanger that definitely leaves you wanting more. I cannot wait to get my hands on book 2.
September 2, 2026
Unfortunately, this ended up being a DNF for me at around 30%.
I had really high hopes going into The Spark of Rebellion after reading and really enjoying the prequel novella, Bound in Smoke and Ink, so I was genuinely excited to dive into Aria’s story. Sadly, I just struggled to connect with this one in the way I’d hoped.
The beginning actually grabbed my attention, Aria’s powers being discovered and her subsequent escape to the camp gave the story a strong, fast-paced opening. However, once that initial momentum settled, I found the pacing started to feel quite slow and, at times, a little clunky. I also struggled to become invested in the characters and their relationships, which ultimately made it difficult for me to feel pulled into the story.
That said, I do want to acknowledge that this is a well-written book, and I can absolutely see the care that has gone into the world and story. I think this was simply a case of the book not quite clicking for me personally, especially after having such high expectations following the prequel.
I’m disappointed I couldn’t connect with it because I really wanted to love this one, but I’d still be interested in seeing what JA Williams does next.
I had really high hopes going into The Spark of Rebellion after reading and really enjoying the prequel novella, Bound in Smoke and Ink, so I was genuinely excited to dive into Aria’s story. Sadly, I just struggled to connect with this one in the way I’d hoped.
The beginning actually grabbed my attention, Aria’s powers being discovered and her subsequent escape to the camp gave the story a strong, fast-paced opening. However, once that initial momentum settled, I found the pacing started to feel quite slow and, at times, a little clunky. I also struggled to become invested in the characters and their relationships, which ultimately made it difficult for me to feel pulled into the story.
That said, I do want to acknowledge that this is a well-written book, and I can absolutely see the care that has gone into the world and story. I think this was simply a case of the book not quite clicking for me personally, especially after having such high expectations following the prequel.
I’m disappointed I couldn’t connect with it because I really wanted to love this one, but I’d still be interested in seeing what JA Williams does next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"From The Darkness, we rise..."
I really like the premise of this story. However, the writing style of this just wasn't for me. The lyrical or poetic pose of it seemed to hinder the story by trying to make every other sentence sound profound instead of letting the story just flow.
I did find the story of Asher and Arianwen sweet and emotional. However, the relationship between Arianwen and Evander needed more development.
I feel like Bastian is going to be an absolute riot.
Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
I really like the premise of this story. However, the writing style of this just wasn't for me. The lyrical or poetic pose of it seemed to hinder the story by trying to make every other sentence sound profound instead of letting the story just flow.
I did find the story of Asher and Arianwen sweet and emotional. However, the relationship between Arianwen and Evander needed more development.
I feel like Bastian is going to be an absolute riot.
Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
September 2, 2026
I am literally staring at a wall right now! That ending?! Arghhhhhhhhhh. I cannot WAIT for book 2! I love our characters, I need more from ALL of them. Except Virelda - ********
I am so honoured to have received the arc early as part of Jessica’s street team and I have to say it was one of the best decisions I made signing up! This book is incredible, it took me down so many twists and turns, I was never comfortable and cannot wait to see where she takes us!
I am so honoured to have received the arc early as part of Jessica’s street team and I have to say it was one of the best decisions I made signing up! This book is incredible, it took me down so many twists and turns, I was never comfortable and cannot wait to see where she takes us!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thanks to the author and whimsy word press for the e-arc. 3 stars. I really wanted to love this book, but unfortunetely it fell a little flat for me. The prose and writing is beautiful, almost lyrical but I found myself getting confused, not able to make certain connections as if I had missed whole sections. Whilst I enjoyed the tension between FMC and MMC initially I failed to see the development in their relationship.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is incredible! Following Aria’s journey as she becomes a woman who won’t back down or take no for an answer is just part of what makes this story so great. And Evander (whew 🔥🔥) his evolution from loathing him to obsessed with him is top tier. I highly recommend this book to EVERYONE!
July 10, 2026
ARC Review
This book had me holding my breath the last several chapters and left me speechless, just silently staring off into space for a while as I learned how to breathe again and started to mentally process what I just read. This book packs it all – love, secrecy, lies, loyalty, betrayal, family, heartbreak, discovering truth, magic, rebellion, fate, uncertainty, emotional damage, badassery - all in a world we’ve only just begun to peel back the layers on. The world building was great, I can’t wait to see how it grows further. The characters were easy to emotionally connect with, even if that connection was fueled by hate haha. I loved it, every fantastic and brutal moment. It was expertly and beautifully written, I really felt the power and raw emotion of every word on every page. It ruined me, I cannot wait for more in book 2. Thank you so much JA Williams and Whimsy Words PR for the ebook and bringing me along on this adventure!
“Stars burned, cold and distant, above us. Indifferent to our wars and grief and fragile triumphs. They had watched empires rise and fall, long before we’d ever drawn breath. And I dearly hoped they would watch as this Empire began to crumble as well.”
This book had me holding my breath the last several chapters and left me speechless, just silently staring off into space for a while as I learned how to breathe again and started to mentally process what I just read. This book packs it all – love, secrecy, lies, loyalty, betrayal, family, heartbreak, discovering truth, magic, rebellion, fate, uncertainty, emotional damage, badassery - all in a world we’ve only just begun to peel back the layers on. The world building was great, I can’t wait to see how it grows further. The characters were easy to emotionally connect with, even if that connection was fueled by hate haha. I loved it, every fantastic and brutal moment. It was expertly and beautifully written, I really felt the power and raw emotion of every word on every page. It ruined me, I cannot wait for more in book 2. Thank you so much JA Williams and Whimsy Words PR for the ebook and bringing me along on this adventure!
“Stars burned, cold and distant, above us. Indifferent to our wars and grief and fragile triumphs. They had watched empires rise and fall, long before we’d ever drawn breath. And I dearly hoped they would watch as this Empire began to crumble as well.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
DNFd at 60%. I really wanted to love this book the idea and premise was so good. The first 10% captured my attention but after that? Eh.
I started to notice the writing gets very choppy but also kind of sing song sounding in my head. I wanted more of a flow to the writing not so many 3 worded sentences.
The story itself self I had a hard time following, I don’t know when the commander started thinking of Aria as a woman he wanted, or aria attracted to the commander. I had a hard time visualizing the magic, I couldnt understand what exactly Aria’s powers were or what they could do.
There were also internal monologues with Aria that made no sense. She would be talking about flowers and then ask if the commander felt how she felt but not actually mention the emotion that she’s feeling or in what regard we’re having emotions to?
As much as I wanted to know what happens, I just don’t think this writing style is for me. 😔
I started to notice the writing gets very choppy but also kind of sing song sounding in my head. I wanted more of a flow to the writing not so many 3 worded sentences.
The story itself self I had a hard time following, I don’t know when the commander started thinking of Aria as a woman he wanted, or aria attracted to the commander. I had a hard time visualizing the magic, I couldnt understand what exactly Aria’s powers were or what they could do.
There were also internal monologues with Aria that made no sense. She would be talking about flowers and then ask if the commander felt how she felt but not actually mention the emotion that she’s feeling or in what regard we’re having emotions to?
As much as I wanted to know what happens, I just don’t think this writing style is for me. 😔
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I really enjoyed this book. The FMC is stubborn in her convictions in the best way and the build of tension between the FMC and the MMC is so wonderfully done! I am impatiently awaiting book 2 already!
August 30, 2026
Thank you to the author for gifting me this arc (part of the street team). Jess I honestly the best person, we have SO much fun on the street team!!
After loving the novella attached to this series I was so happy to say the greatness stayed within the series.
Ari might have always appeared a docile female but she never truly was. After traumatic loss of a few people from her life she is on the run from the crown. The crown who suffocated woman’s magic from fear. She is the descendent of a powerful woman - and she is learning just how far she will go with said power to save the man she loves. But this man is also her enemy. Well that’s what the crown would make you believe. Evanader is the perfect solider, he does as told when told. But once he feels her presence me get under his skin, his ink. He knows there’s a problem that started WAY before he was born. When he starts looking into the history of their people he learns some horrific things.
I cannot wait to see where this female rage and female only magic story goes. And I hope our Evander can pull through. I’m now rooting for them SO much!!
After loving the novella attached to this series I was so happy to say the greatness stayed within the series.
Ari might have always appeared a docile female but she never truly was. After traumatic loss of a few people from her life she is on the run from the crown. The crown who suffocated woman’s magic from fear. She is the descendent of a powerful woman - and she is learning just how far she will go with said power to save the man she loves. But this man is also her enemy. Well that’s what the crown would make you believe. Evanader is the perfect solider, he does as told when told. But once he feels her presence me get under his skin, his ink. He knows there’s a problem that started WAY before he was born. When he starts looking into the history of their people he learns some horrific things.
I cannot wait to see where this female rage and female only magic story goes. And I hope our Evander can pull through. I’m now rooting for them SO much!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2026
Everything about this book is wonderful!
You are entering into a new world that is just in its beginning stages and you know it has so much more to spill out onto the pages!
It gives you a whole functioning world system, that is built on layers of history.
Characters you instantly love, or fall in love with!
With writing that is lyrical, as much as it is written to draw you in and keep you bound to the book.
Everything about this book brings out all your emotions.
Ones that you feel so sharply that it surprises you.
It makes you feel like you are in the world with the characters breathing the same air.
I absolutely love everything about this book!
Diving into the characters you can see the FMC, Arianwen, going through everything. She had one thought on the mind and that is revenge. BUT of course fate has other feelings about that revenge. She bound to the rebellion because of her magic. She learns and grows and embraces her powers. I love watching her grow into her role and embrace who she is to become!
The MMC, Evander, I feel like I don't need to say much because well the man is perfection in every way. I will not hear differently. I love being there for all the moments in which he is struggling with the world around him. Struggling with the knowledge that something is wrong. I really enjoyed his POVs because it offered a different perspective and you just loved him all the more for it!
The others, Sebastian, Alaric and Riven, are all a big part in the story and you also learn to love them too besides the character arts.... so, so pretty!
This is a whole new type of world, where magic stays in the hands of males and in women, it is suppressed. A world were the rebellion becomes so much more meaningful and you get pulled aright along with it!
there is also a prequel...
If this book is not already on our TBR then it should be!
Thank you J.A. Williams and team for allowing me to read this ARC. all thoughts an opinions are my own.
You are entering into a new world that is just in its beginning stages and you know it has so much more to spill out onto the pages!
It gives you a whole functioning world system, that is built on layers of history.
Characters you instantly love, or fall in love with!
With writing that is lyrical, as much as it is written to draw you in and keep you bound to the book.
Everything about this book brings out all your emotions.
Ones that you feel so sharply that it surprises you.
It makes you feel like you are in the world with the characters breathing the same air.
I absolutely love everything about this book!
Diving into the characters you can see the FMC, Arianwen, going through everything. She had one thought on the mind and that is revenge. BUT of course fate has other feelings about that revenge. She bound to the rebellion because of her magic. She learns and grows and embraces her powers. I love watching her grow into her role and embrace who she is to become!
The MMC, Evander, I feel like I don't need to say much because well the man is perfection in every way. I will not hear differently. I love being there for all the moments in which he is struggling with the world around him. Struggling with the knowledge that something is wrong. I really enjoyed his POVs because it offered a different perspective and you just loved him all the more for it!
The others, Sebastian, Alaric and Riven, are all a big part in the story and you also learn to love them too besides the character arts.... so, so pretty!
This is a whole new type of world, where magic stays in the hands of males and in women, it is suppressed. A world were the rebellion becomes so much more meaningful and you get pulled aright along with it!
there is also a prequel...
If this book is not already on our TBR then it should be!
Thank you J.A. Williams and team for allowing me to read this ARC. all thoughts an opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author. My opinions are my own.
Thank you, JA Williams for allowing me to read your beautiful book.
Let's start with the pronunciation guide. Why is this not standard? This was amazing and I appreciated being able to reference it throughout the book.
She is running because the corrupt and broken political system condemns her for who she is at her core. He is expected to be the fierce, unflinchingly loyal and obedient Commander.
Our FMC is stronger than anyone gives her credit for, and she is absolutely going to let us know in this series. Case and point:
"Because this was my chance. To prove I wasn't just a girl playing at war. I was a force. And the world was about to learn what that meant."
Let's give some appreciation for our MMC:
"Because if the Court of Sighs had taught me anything - it was always ladies first."
And the side characters do not disappoint:
"And bedtime stories are exactly how tyrants shovel dirt over inconvenient bones."
This book is what every high fantasy book strives for: (seemingly) easy perfection in its beauty, intrigue, plot, pacing, with a little spice thrown in.
I will absolutely be continuing with this series and will continue to hype any books written by JA Williams.
🌶️🌶️
The Spark of Rebellion releases Oct 6, 2026.
Thank you, JA Williams for allowing me to read your beautiful book.
Let's start with the pronunciation guide. Why is this not standard? This was amazing and I appreciated being able to reference it throughout the book.
She is running because the corrupt and broken political system condemns her for who she is at her core. He is expected to be the fierce, unflinchingly loyal and obedient Commander.
Our FMC is stronger than anyone gives her credit for, and she is absolutely going to let us know in this series. Case and point:
"Because this was my chance. To prove I wasn't just a girl playing at war. I was a force. And the world was about to learn what that meant."
Let's give some appreciation for our MMC:
"Because if the Court of Sighs had taught me anything - it was always ladies first."
And the side characters do not disappoint:
"And bedtime stories are exactly how tyrants shovel dirt over inconvenient bones."
This book is what every high fantasy book strives for: (seemingly) easy perfection in its beauty, intrigue, plot, pacing, with a little spice thrown in.
I will absolutely be continuing with this series and will continue to hype any books written by JA Williams.
🌶️🌶️
The Spark of Rebellion releases Oct 6, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and JA Williams for providing me with an ARC of The Spark of Rebellion in exchange for an honest review.
Before I had even properly started, this book was already earning brownie points. There is a pronunciation glossary at the beginning, which I totally appreciate. Normally, an unfamiliar fantasy name gets silently muttered in some strange form in my head for the rest of the book, so having something I could actually refer back to was rather handy.
Then there was the opening Margaret Atwood quote. She is one of my favourite authors, so even more kudos and I still hadn't technically started the story.
And then I read the prologue.
Wow. As an opener, just wow.
The Spark of Rebellion is the first book in J.A. Williams' Threads of Fate series and is set in a fantasy world where women are forbidden from wielding magic. Purity is law, and women discovered with magical abilities face brutal consequences.
Against this backdrop, rebellion is beginning to stir, secrets are starting to surface and characters who have been raised to accept the rules of their world are forced to question exactly who those rules are protecting.
There is magic, power, political intrigue, forbidden love and that enemies-to-lovers element running through it all.
I was sucked into this almost immediately.
The annoying thing was that real life decided to be ridiculously busy this week, because I constantly found myself thinking about this book and itching to get back to it. Had responsibilities not insisted on getting in the way, I would have flown through it.
The prologue sets the tone brilliantly and gives you that immediate feeling that something much bigger is happening underneath the surface. From there, the story keeps building the world, its history and the injustice that sits at the centre of it.
One of the strongest parts for me was the whole premise of women being denied access to magic simply because they are women. There is obviously a very deliberate commentary on power, control and patriarchy woven through the fantasy elements, but it never felt like I was being lectured. It sits naturally within the story and gives the rebellion itself much more weight.
The characters also felt complicated rather than conveniently good or bad. There are people working within the system, people fighting against it and people who have lived under its rules for so long that they barely question them. I really liked that because it made the world feel more believable.
The romance adds another layer to everything rather than completely taking over the story. There is tension, conflict and that constant sense that feelings are developing in circumstances where they really shouldn't be. For me, the rebellion, politics and magic were every bit as important as the romantic side, which is how I prefer my romantasy.
I also really enjoyed J.A. Williams' writing style. There is a lyrical quality to some of the prose and plenty of emotion running through it. It is quite a dramatic story at times, but considering the world these characters are living in, that worked for me rather than feeling overdone.
If I had one criticism, it would probably be that there are moments where there is a lot happening at once. There is the magic system, the history, politics, family relationships, rebellion and romance all developing alongside one another, and occasionally I had to stop and make sure I had everything straight in my head.
But to be fair, that is a fairly minor complaint considering how much I enjoyed the book.
This was one of those books where I knew I was invested because even when I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about when I could pick it back up again.
Fantasy readers who enjoy rebellion, magic, morally complicated characters, political intrigue and romance threaded through a much bigger story should definitely give this one a go.
The fact that real life stopped me from smashing it in about two days is quite frankly, rude!
A fantastic start to the series and one I'm now invested in. Bring on book two please!
Before I had even properly started, this book was already earning brownie points. There is a pronunciation glossary at the beginning, which I totally appreciate. Normally, an unfamiliar fantasy name gets silently muttered in some strange form in my head for the rest of the book, so having something I could actually refer back to was rather handy.
Then there was the opening Margaret Atwood quote. She is one of my favourite authors, so even more kudos and I still hadn't technically started the story.
And then I read the prologue.
Wow. As an opener, just wow.
The Spark of Rebellion is the first book in J.A. Williams' Threads of Fate series and is set in a fantasy world where women are forbidden from wielding magic. Purity is law, and women discovered with magical abilities face brutal consequences.
Against this backdrop, rebellion is beginning to stir, secrets are starting to surface and characters who have been raised to accept the rules of their world are forced to question exactly who those rules are protecting.
There is magic, power, political intrigue, forbidden love and that enemies-to-lovers element running through it all.
I was sucked into this almost immediately.
The annoying thing was that real life decided to be ridiculously busy this week, because I constantly found myself thinking about this book and itching to get back to it. Had responsibilities not insisted on getting in the way, I would have flown through it.
The prologue sets the tone brilliantly and gives you that immediate feeling that something much bigger is happening underneath the surface. From there, the story keeps building the world, its history and the injustice that sits at the centre of it.
One of the strongest parts for me was the whole premise of women being denied access to magic simply because they are women. There is obviously a very deliberate commentary on power, control and patriarchy woven through the fantasy elements, but it never felt like I was being lectured. It sits naturally within the story and gives the rebellion itself much more weight.
The characters also felt complicated rather than conveniently good or bad. There are people working within the system, people fighting against it and people who have lived under its rules for so long that they barely question them. I really liked that because it made the world feel more believable.
The romance adds another layer to everything rather than completely taking over the story. There is tension, conflict and that constant sense that feelings are developing in circumstances where they really shouldn't be. For me, the rebellion, politics and magic were every bit as important as the romantic side, which is how I prefer my romantasy.
I also really enjoyed J.A. Williams' writing style. There is a lyrical quality to some of the prose and plenty of emotion running through it. It is quite a dramatic story at times, but considering the world these characters are living in, that worked for me rather than feeling overdone.
If I had one criticism, it would probably be that there are moments where there is a lot happening at once. There is the magic system, the history, politics, family relationships, rebellion and romance all developing alongside one another, and occasionally I had to stop and make sure I had everything straight in my head.
But to be fair, that is a fairly minor complaint considering how much I enjoyed the book.
This was one of those books where I knew I was invested because even when I wasn't reading it, I was thinking about when I could pick it back up again.
Fantasy readers who enjoy rebellion, magic, morally complicated characters, political intrigue and romance threaded through a much bigger story should definitely give this one a go.
The fact that real life stopped me from smashing it in about two days is quite frankly, rude!
A fantastic start to the series and one I'm now invested in. Bring on book two please!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC reader
The Spark of Rebellion feels exactly like what it is supposed to be: the beginning of something much bigger.
( I suggest you to read book 0.5 to understand the magic, world & lore)
And I think that is important going into this book. This isn’t a small fantasy world built around one romance and one conflict. This is the first book in what is going to be a long series, and you can already feel how much world, history, magic, politics and character development is waiting underneath everything we’ve been shown so far.
The world was probably my favourite part. Women with magic are hunted and burned, while men with magic are claimed by the Empire, tattooed and turned into its weapons. Rebellion is growing, loyalties are complicated and almost everyone seems to be hiding something. There are so many little pieces being placed that I KNOW are going to come back later.
And I love that.
Arianwen is angry, grieving and determined, and I really liked that her feelings aren’t conveniently softened just because romance enters the story. Her anger has reasons. Her mistrust has reasons. Her choices feel like hers.
Then we have Evander.
Oh, Evander. 😂
He’s not a character I think you’re necessarily supposed to immediately adore. He’s been shaped by the Empire, by his father and by everything he’s been taught to believe. Watching those beliefs begin to crack was far more interesting to me than having a perfect MMC from page one. There is a LOT of room for his character to grow, and I’m very curious about where the series takes him.
And the enemies-to-lovers tension? This isn’t we mildly dislike each other but you’re hot enemies to lovers. There is actual history, pain and consequence standing between these characters. Exactly how I want it.
I also really enjoyed the side characters. Riven, Bastian, Alaric and the others make the world feel much larger than the central romance, and I already have several characters I need WAY more of in the next books.
The writing is very descriptive and lyrical, which worked beautifully for the atmosphere and made the world incredibly visual. I will say that there were moments where I felt the story slowed down because of it, especially through the middle. There is a lot being established here, and at times I wanted the plot to move a little faster.
But then the last part happened.
And suddenly everything started clicking into place.
The stakes rise, the pieces start moving and you begin to understand just how much bigger this story could become.
So keep in mind when starting this: this is a series. A LONG series. We are not supposed to understand every piece of the world yet. This first book is opening the door to what feels like an enormous fantasy world, and personally, I’d rather have questions now if the payoff comes across several books.
Magic, rebellion, grief, betrayal, complicated loyalties, morally messy characters and an Empire that very clearly needs to burn.
I’m invested.
Now I want to see just how big this world becomes. 🔥
@thesoftcurse
The Spark of Rebellion feels exactly like what it is supposed to be: the beginning of something much bigger.
( I suggest you to read book 0.5 to understand the magic, world & lore)
And I think that is important going into this book. This isn’t a small fantasy world built around one romance and one conflict. This is the first book in what is going to be a long series, and you can already feel how much world, history, magic, politics and character development is waiting underneath everything we’ve been shown so far.
The world was probably my favourite part. Women with magic are hunted and burned, while men with magic are claimed by the Empire, tattooed and turned into its weapons. Rebellion is growing, loyalties are complicated and almost everyone seems to be hiding something. There are so many little pieces being placed that I KNOW are going to come back later.
And I love that.
Arianwen is angry, grieving and determined, and I really liked that her feelings aren’t conveniently softened just because romance enters the story. Her anger has reasons. Her mistrust has reasons. Her choices feel like hers.
Then we have Evander.
Oh, Evander. 😂
He’s not a character I think you’re necessarily supposed to immediately adore. He’s been shaped by the Empire, by his father and by everything he’s been taught to believe. Watching those beliefs begin to crack was far more interesting to me than having a perfect MMC from page one. There is a LOT of room for his character to grow, and I’m very curious about where the series takes him.
And the enemies-to-lovers tension? This isn’t we mildly dislike each other but you’re hot enemies to lovers. There is actual history, pain and consequence standing between these characters. Exactly how I want it.
I also really enjoyed the side characters. Riven, Bastian, Alaric and the others make the world feel much larger than the central romance, and I already have several characters I need WAY more of in the next books.
The writing is very descriptive and lyrical, which worked beautifully for the atmosphere and made the world incredibly visual. I will say that there were moments where I felt the story slowed down because of it, especially through the middle. There is a lot being established here, and at times I wanted the plot to move a little faster.
But then the last part happened.
And suddenly everything started clicking into place.
The stakes rise, the pieces start moving and you begin to understand just how much bigger this story could become.
So keep in mind when starting this: this is a series. A LONG series. We are not supposed to understand every piece of the world yet. This first book is opening the door to what feels like an enormous fantasy world, and personally, I’d rather have questions now if the payoff comes across several books.
Magic, rebellion, grief, betrayal, complicated loyalties, morally messy characters and an Empire that very clearly needs to burn.
I’m invested.
Now I want to see just how big this world becomes. 🔥
@thesoftcurse
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a 6 star read for me.
Without exaggeration, The Spark Of Rebellion is one of the best books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. I cannot even find words adequately to describe how thoroughly I enjoyed this.
Thoughts of a 6-star rating were swirling in my mind during the opening chapters, the rest of the book confirmed my suspicions. The easiest 6 stars I’ve ever given.
“Because even the gods fear a flame that refuses to die. And I? I am the heresy it fears most” - Arianwen
This book made me feel, deeply. For me, that is the ultimate sign of literary prowess. I lost track of how many times my throat tightened, my breath seized and the floodgates opened. My heart was either a bloody mess from the emotional blows or pounding from the suspense. I felt rage at the unfairness of it all and I could see reflections of our own world woven into these pages. I swooned over those moody, protective, maddening men, because how could you not. I connected. With the writing style, the characters, the world, the plot. Authenticity in the emotions, interactions, thoughts, fears, hopes, sibling bonds and humility. I connected with it all on a very personal level.
I craved reading this. I picked it up any chance I got. Sometimes it’s difficult to settle back into the world when you’re reading in short bursts, that was not the case with this book. Picking this up was like putting on my favourite jacket, I slipped straight back into the world effortlessly. The story came to life in my mind and there were certain scenes where the writing was so vivid, I had a full-scale cinematic experience happening in there. My imagination ignited. It also features one of the most brilliant deployments of double-entendre that I’ve come across, my jaw dropped at the connection. Well played.
I’m not going to go into the plot, I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone. What I will say is read the blurb, the book delivers everything it promises in spades. And if it speaks to you, I beg you, please read the prequel novella Bound By Smoke & Ink first. It is the well from which the emotion of this book feeds, providing context and insight. I truly believe that to skip it would be doing yourself, this story and these characters a great disservice.
To say that I am eagerly awaiting book 2 is a massive understatement. I hadn’t even finished reading and I rushed to pre-order the special edition paperback, because I know I will want to re-visit these characters.
Congratulations Jessica, you’ve absolutely nailed it with your debut. Thank you again for allowing me the privilege of being among the early readers to experience this epic tale of love, loss & becoming who you were born to be. These characters and their story will stay with me long after the final pages.
Without exaggeration, The Spark Of Rebellion is one of the best books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. I cannot even find words adequately to describe how thoroughly I enjoyed this.
Thoughts of a 6-star rating were swirling in my mind during the opening chapters, the rest of the book confirmed my suspicions. The easiest 6 stars I’ve ever given.
“Because even the gods fear a flame that refuses to die. And I? I am the heresy it fears most” - Arianwen
This book made me feel, deeply. For me, that is the ultimate sign of literary prowess. I lost track of how many times my throat tightened, my breath seized and the floodgates opened. My heart was either a bloody mess from the emotional blows or pounding from the suspense. I felt rage at the unfairness of it all and I could see reflections of our own world woven into these pages. I swooned over those moody, protective, maddening men, because how could you not. I connected. With the writing style, the characters, the world, the plot. Authenticity in the emotions, interactions, thoughts, fears, hopes, sibling bonds and humility. I connected with it all on a very personal level.
I craved reading this. I picked it up any chance I got. Sometimes it’s difficult to settle back into the world when you’re reading in short bursts, that was not the case with this book. Picking this up was like putting on my favourite jacket, I slipped straight back into the world effortlessly. The story came to life in my mind and there were certain scenes where the writing was so vivid, I had a full-scale cinematic experience happening in there. My imagination ignited. It also features one of the most brilliant deployments of double-entendre that I’ve come across, my jaw dropped at the connection. Well played.
I’m not going to go into the plot, I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone. What I will say is read the blurb, the book delivers everything it promises in spades. And if it speaks to you, I beg you, please read the prequel novella Bound By Smoke & Ink first. It is the well from which the emotion of this book feeds, providing context and insight. I truly believe that to skip it would be doing yourself, this story and these characters a great disservice.
To say that I am eagerly awaiting book 2 is a massive understatement. I hadn’t even finished reading and I rushed to pre-order the special edition paperback, because I know I will want to re-visit these characters.
Congratulations Jessica, you’ve absolutely nailed it with your debut. Thank you again for allowing me the privilege of being among the early readers to experience this epic tale of love, loss & becoming who you were born to be. These characters and their story will stay with me long after the final pages.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Goddamn it, it's 1am and I have to be up at 6am but my brain is spiralling because HOW DO I SLEEP AFTER THAT???
I've seen the Spark of Rebellion described as slow build/slow burn but I'm not sure I can agree! The world building here is methodical yet feels effortless. Jessica has weaved a world so carefully and naturally that it is immersive to the point where picking up this book meant I actually stepped into a whole new world of smoke and ink. Oh yeah, the veil? Was there on Saturday, bit smoky, 4/10 on Trip Advisor. But slow build? Absolutely not. This book is action packed, tear provoking, teeth gritting, semi naked fist fighting, magical, feet kicking, frustration inducing, genius. From the start. From the prequel actually.
Let's address my favourite trope. Enemies to Lovers. Never have I ever read a book where the FMC "double hates" and "loathes entirely" the MMC with a passion that rivals The Grinch- and means it. And with good reason! If I'm truly honest, I can't say my heart warmed to the Commander at the beginning either. Feminine rage? I HAD FEMININE RAGE- this guy had me sobbing in the first four chapters because of his poor decisions. That said, in the biggest redemption arc since Jamie Lannister (minus the ending- GOT, we need words), the more Evander questions the Empire and the more self aware he becomes, the more we realize that "the Commander" is a mask he wears and the man beneath is so much more (although jury is still out on whether he deserves Aria). I went from hating this guy, to wanting to rip the veil apart for him.
Aria gets my favourite character award. Without question- she is fierce, brave, angry, loyal, she has depth and she is ready to rain fire down on the Empire. This book is empowering, with the injustice and unfairness of what it is to be a woman shown as a running theme throughout- my own feminine rage was RAGING! We don't have another simpering heroine who conveniently forgets the MMC was an asshole for the sake of the plot. Jessica has given us something real. We have someone who acknowledges she can't forgive the acts of the past because they ARE unforgivable... but she makes an actual choice about what happens next. He would still burn the world for her but this time it's on her terms.
A few honourable mentions (or not so honorable, Virelda I'm looking at you).... Alaric's loyalty is eternally perfect. Virelda gives me the ick- have some self respect woman. Absolutely adore Bastian. He's the cheeky little brother I didn't know I needed and I cannot wait to see how his character develops. I need more of Elarien.
Jessica wrote this story for every woman who has ever felt "less than". In a world where women have consistently been made to shine less brightly, laugh more quietly and live much smaller. Thank you for bringing me into your world.
I've seen the Spark of Rebellion described as slow build/slow burn but I'm not sure I can agree! The world building here is methodical yet feels effortless. Jessica has weaved a world so carefully and naturally that it is immersive to the point where picking up this book meant I actually stepped into a whole new world of smoke and ink. Oh yeah, the veil? Was there on Saturday, bit smoky, 4/10 on Trip Advisor. But slow build? Absolutely not. This book is action packed, tear provoking, teeth gritting, semi naked fist fighting, magical, feet kicking, frustration inducing, genius. From the start. From the prequel actually.
Let's address my favourite trope. Enemies to Lovers. Never have I ever read a book where the FMC "double hates" and "loathes entirely" the MMC with a passion that rivals The Grinch- and means it. And with good reason! If I'm truly honest, I can't say my heart warmed to the Commander at the beginning either. Feminine rage? I HAD FEMININE RAGE- this guy had me sobbing in the first four chapters because of his poor decisions. That said, in the biggest redemption arc since Jamie Lannister (minus the ending- GOT, we need words), the more Evander questions the Empire and the more self aware he becomes, the more we realize that "the Commander" is a mask he wears and the man beneath is so much more (although jury is still out on whether he deserves Aria). I went from hating this guy, to wanting to rip the veil apart for him.
Aria gets my favourite character award. Without question- she is fierce, brave, angry, loyal, she has depth and she is ready to rain fire down on the Empire. This book is empowering, with the injustice and unfairness of what it is to be a woman shown as a running theme throughout- my own feminine rage was RAGING! We don't have another simpering heroine who conveniently forgets the MMC was an asshole for the sake of the plot. Jessica has given us something real. We have someone who acknowledges she can't forgive the acts of the past because they ARE unforgivable... but she makes an actual choice about what happens next. He would still burn the world for her but this time it's on her terms.
A few honourable mentions (or not so honorable, Virelda I'm looking at you).... Alaric's loyalty is eternally perfect. Virelda gives me the ick- have some self respect woman. Absolutely adore Bastian. He's the cheeky little brother I didn't know I needed and I cannot wait to see how his character develops. I need more of Elarien.
Jessica wrote this story for every woman who has ever felt "less than". In a world where women have consistently been made to shine less brightly, laugh more quietly and live much smaller. Thank you for bringing me into your world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into The Spark of Rebellion expecting a layered fantasy story, beautiful prose, rebellion brewing beneath the surface and an enemies-to-lovers romance that would take its time unfolding. While Aria and Evander moved from true enemies towards attraction and understanding somewhat faster than I expected, I really enjoyed what their relationship allowed the story to explore.
They come from almost opposite versions of the same world. Aria has spent her life learning that survival means silence, obedience and hiding a power the Empire would kill her for. Evander has been moulded into the Empire’s weapon so completely that obedience has quite literally been carved into his skin. Watching them gradually force each other to confront what they thought they knew was one of the strongest parts of the book.
Aria’s development particularly worked for me. Her journey from treating fear as something she needs to survive to understanding that it can become a source of power was genuinely compelling. Evander’s arc runs neatly alongside hers as he begins questioning the systems, histories and people he has spent his entire life serving.
His relationships outside the romance also gave him more depth, particularly Alaric and Bastian. Bastian very quickly became my favourite side character — give me a politically savvy spare heir who can read a room, understand exactly how dangerous court politics are, and still find time for banter and apparently I’m sold.
The standout, however, was the prose. The writing is atmospheric and often beautiful without making the fantasy world feel inaccessible. As an aphantasia reader, I found the character voices and language particularly effective at keeping me immersed, while the worldbuilding around the Veil, suppressed female magic and ritual ink arrived in manageable pieces rather than overwhelming the story.
This feels primarily character-led, although the political and magical plot becomes increasingly important as the book progresses. There is one open-door scene later in the story, but much more of the romantic experience is built around tension, power, guilt and the strange connection between Aria’s smoke and Evander’s ink.
And that ending is absolutely designed to make you continue. The wider mythology expands dramatically, several character threads are only beginning to reveal themselves, and absolutely nobody is left somewhere I would describe as convenient.
A strong start to a much larger romantasy story, particularly for readers who enjoy rebellion, morally complicated characters, magical bonds, political control and gorgeous prose. I’m definitely interested in seeing where Threads of Fate goes next.
They come from almost opposite versions of the same world. Aria has spent her life learning that survival means silence, obedience and hiding a power the Empire would kill her for. Evander has been moulded into the Empire’s weapon so completely that obedience has quite literally been carved into his skin. Watching them gradually force each other to confront what they thought they knew was one of the strongest parts of the book.
Aria’s development particularly worked for me. Her journey from treating fear as something she needs to survive to understanding that it can become a source of power was genuinely compelling. Evander’s arc runs neatly alongside hers as he begins questioning the systems, histories and people he has spent his entire life serving.
His relationships outside the romance also gave him more depth, particularly Alaric and Bastian. Bastian very quickly became my favourite side character — give me a politically savvy spare heir who can read a room, understand exactly how dangerous court politics are, and still find time for banter and apparently I’m sold.
The standout, however, was the prose. The writing is atmospheric and often beautiful without making the fantasy world feel inaccessible. As an aphantasia reader, I found the character voices and language particularly effective at keeping me immersed, while the worldbuilding around the Veil, suppressed female magic and ritual ink arrived in manageable pieces rather than overwhelming the story.
This feels primarily character-led, although the political and magical plot becomes increasingly important as the book progresses. There is one open-door scene later in the story, but much more of the romantic experience is built around tension, power, guilt and the strange connection between Aria’s smoke and Evander’s ink.
And that ending is absolutely designed to make you continue. The wider mythology expands dramatically, several character threads are only beginning to reveal themselves, and absolutely nobody is left somewhere I would describe as convenient.
A strong start to a much larger romantasy story, particularly for readers who enjoy rebellion, morally complicated characters, magical bonds, political control and gorgeous prose. I’m definitely interested in seeing where Threads of Fate goes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
‘I was a force. And the world was about to learn what that meant.’
You wanna talk about enemies to lovers? Morally grey? Female rage??
I LOVE a story driven by an angry woman and seeing her come into her power. I found Aria to be a mature, level-headed FMC who was willing to learn and is a survivor.
‘They would have to reckon with what I was. Not a blade. Not a dog on a leash. A storm. And storms belong to no man.’
Evander isn't one of these ‘bad guys’ whose reputation was either based on false rumours, or where we find out later that everything he has done was for the greater good.
He really thinks he’s on the right side and will do awful things to protect what he was brought up to believe…until Aria makes him start to question everything, and we witness him slowly lose his grip on all he's ever known.
He truly is morally grey, he's all about duty and punishing disobedience and also admits how much he enjoys feeling powerful.
‘...it was hard to ignore how the crowd’s obedience affected me. How it poured through me, like the drug she claimed it was. Seductive. Poisonous. I hated it. Yet, I always craved more…’
I really believed the relationship between Aria and Evander. You could feel their hatred at first, and then their conflict as feelings developed.
I personally would've preferred a slower burn, purely because they were TRUE enemies at the start of the book and them getting together seemed a little abrupt to me.
That being said, if we did get that slower burn then we wouldn't have had the ending that we did and the last 20% was one of my favourite parts of the book.
‘I wanted to punish her for exposing what I’d spent my entire life mastering. Yet, I also wanted to worship her for even daring to do so in the first place…’
The side characters felt intentional and real.
I need a Gryndel in my life!
The writing itself is very atmospheric and poetic, maybe sometimes to the detriment of the actual storytelling? I found the plot occasionally getting lost in the prose and some of it read slightly clunky to me.
I love how naturally the world was built and explained without the classic info dump that we often see in these types of stories.
The scene with the school teacher is HAUNTING me, by the way.
Overall I definitely recommend this book if you enjoy:
⚡Forbidden love
⚡Political oppression
⚡ YEARNING
⚡ Rebellion
⚡ Unique world
⚡ Fuck the patriarchy
⚡ ACTUAL enemies to lovers
⚡ WHO'S AFRAID OF LITTLE OLD ME..? YOU SHOULD BE ⚡
Thank you to Jessica and Whimsy Words PR for this ARC and for introducing me to this world! A GREAT set up to what's coming next and I'll absolutely keep reading!
You wanna talk about enemies to lovers? Morally grey? Female rage??
I LOVE a story driven by an angry woman and seeing her come into her power. I found Aria to be a mature, level-headed FMC who was willing to learn and is a survivor.
‘They would have to reckon with what I was. Not a blade. Not a dog on a leash. A storm. And storms belong to no man.’
Evander isn't one of these ‘bad guys’ whose reputation was either based on false rumours, or where we find out later that everything he has done was for the greater good.
He really thinks he’s on the right side and will do awful things to protect what he was brought up to believe…until Aria makes him start to question everything, and we witness him slowly lose his grip on all he's ever known.
He truly is morally grey, he's all about duty and punishing disobedience and also admits how much he enjoys feeling powerful.
‘...it was hard to ignore how the crowd’s obedience affected me. How it poured through me, like the drug she claimed it was. Seductive. Poisonous. I hated it. Yet, I always craved more…’
I really believed the relationship between Aria and Evander. You could feel their hatred at first, and then their conflict as feelings developed.
I personally would've preferred a slower burn, purely because they were TRUE enemies at the start of the book and them getting together seemed a little abrupt to me.
That being said, if we did get that slower burn then we wouldn't have had the ending that we did and the last 20% was one of my favourite parts of the book.
‘I wanted to punish her for exposing what I’d spent my entire life mastering. Yet, I also wanted to worship her for even daring to do so in the first place…’
The side characters felt intentional and real.
I need a Gryndel in my life!
The writing itself is very atmospheric and poetic, maybe sometimes to the detriment of the actual storytelling? I found the plot occasionally getting lost in the prose and some of it read slightly clunky to me.
I love how naturally the world was built and explained without the classic info dump that we often see in these types of stories.
The scene with the school teacher is HAUNTING me, by the way.
Overall I definitely recommend this book if you enjoy:
⚡Forbidden love
⚡Political oppression
⚡ YEARNING
⚡ Rebellion
⚡ Unique world
⚡ Fuck the patriarchy
⚡ ACTUAL enemies to lovers
⚡ WHO'S AFRAID OF LITTLE OLD ME..? YOU SHOULD BE ⚡
Thank you to Jessica and Whimsy Words PR for this ARC and for introducing me to this world! A GREAT set up to what's coming next and I'll absolutely keep reading!
August 21, 2026
Thank you to J.A Williams and Whimsy Words PR for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
I started off reading the prequel, which I very much recommend as set up for this series. I won't go into detail about the novella, but it's definitely worth the read before jumping into this.
The world we're introduced to is controlled by religious power, and women are hunted down, persecuted and burned on pyres. For me, the world was uncomfortable, not because it was poorly described or didn't make sense. It was uncomfortable because it did make sense. Women might not be accused of magic anymore, but in some way or another, we know what it's like to be scared of a man in control.
Our FMC, Aria, grows to learn she is a magic wielder, and instead of shrinking and making herself smaller, she takes control and leads the fight against those she was taught to fear. Our MMC, Evander, is moulded by the Empire to never question and follow orders. What happens when fate intervenes and changes everything about them and the world they live in?
One thing I will say is that you can't go into this book thinking you will learn everything immediately. You learn with the characters as the truths of their world are revealed. No info-dumping in sight. As the story progresses, the lore expands and the world grows. There was a brief time where I wasn't sure where the story was going to go, but it reflects how Aria and Evander felt as they face their new reality.
Speaking of characters, I can say with confidence that these characters are incredible. Their decisions weren't ones that had me banging my head against a wall, as occasionally happens. Aria and Evander grew and developed whilst still being flawed and confused. The side characters were just as developed and important.
The romance was poignant, heartbreaking and SLOW. For a solid portion of this book, I genuinely thought there was no hope of redemption because these two were proper enemies with so much hurt between them. When I say the world was against them, I mean it.
From the very first page, I was wrapped in the writing style. It's elegant, yet snappy. Descriptive and emotional. I think it was one of my favourite things about this book, and my Kindle can attest, as there is SO much highlighted. I could see everything vividly and feel what Aria and Evander felt.
This is my long winded way of saying: please read this book. I genuinely feel like this is going to be an insane series, and I'm so excited to know what comes next.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to provide a review ahead of the release on 6/10/26.
I started off reading the prequel, which I very much recommend as set up for this series. I won't go into detail about the novella, but it's definitely worth the read before jumping into this.
The world we're introduced to is controlled by religious power, and women are hunted down, persecuted and burned on pyres. For me, the world was uncomfortable, not because it was poorly described or didn't make sense. It was uncomfortable because it did make sense. Women might not be accused of magic anymore, but in some way or another, we know what it's like to be scared of a man in control.
Our FMC, Aria, grows to learn she is a magic wielder, and instead of shrinking and making herself smaller, she takes control and leads the fight against those she was taught to fear. Our MMC, Evander, is moulded by the Empire to never question and follow orders. What happens when fate intervenes and changes everything about them and the world they live in?
One thing I will say is that you can't go into this book thinking you will learn everything immediately. You learn with the characters as the truths of their world are revealed. No info-dumping in sight. As the story progresses, the lore expands and the world grows. There was a brief time where I wasn't sure where the story was going to go, but it reflects how Aria and Evander felt as they face their new reality.
Speaking of characters, I can say with confidence that these characters are incredible. Their decisions weren't ones that had me banging my head against a wall, as occasionally happens. Aria and Evander grew and developed whilst still being flawed and confused. The side characters were just as developed and important.
The romance was poignant, heartbreaking and SLOW. For a solid portion of this book, I genuinely thought there was no hope of redemption because these two were proper enemies with so much hurt between them. When I say the world was against them, I mean it.
From the very first page, I was wrapped in the writing style. It's elegant, yet snappy. Descriptive and emotional. I think it was one of my favourite things about this book, and my Kindle can attest, as there is SO much highlighted. I could see everything vividly and feel what Aria and Evander felt.
This is my long winded way of saying: please read this book. I genuinely feel like this is going to be an insane series, and I'm so excited to know what comes next.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to provide a review ahead of the release on 6/10/26.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the themes explored in this book. The commentary on misogyny, the silencing of women, and the suppression of female power was particularly compelling. There are some brilliant ideas at the heart of this story, and the premise had so much potential. I found myself genuinely invested in the questions it raised around power, control, gender, and who gets to have a voice.
Unfortunately, for me, the execution didn’t quite match the strength of the ideas.
I appreciate that this is the first book in a series and that some of the gaps may be addressed in future instalments. However, Book 1 left me wanting considerably more world-building and clarity. So much of what initially drew me in was the world and its underlying concepts, but I often found myself confused rather than intrigued because I didn’t have enough information to properly understand how everything connected.
Aria’s powers, for example, seemingly emerge despite having been hidden previously, but I wanted much more explanation around why and how this happened. Similarly, Evander’s abilities are intriguing, but I never felt I fully understood what he was capable of or the boundaries of his powers. These could have been fascinating elements of the story, but I was left with more questions than answers.
There were also smaller details that pulled me out of the story. Family members would be mentioned and then seemingly disappear from the narrative without even a brief acknowledgement, despite having supposedly been an important part of the characters’ lives. I wanted those relationships to feel more grounded and consequential.
I also struggled with the sense of time and space within the world. Distances, journeys, and the proximity between different locations and characters were often unclear, which made it difficult for me to develop a real sense of the world or understand how long things should take.
That said, I did still enjoy the book. The themes are undoubtedly its strongest aspect, and there is a lot here that I found genuinely interesting. The ideas surrounding misogyny, women's voices, power, and rebellion are thought provoking, and I can see the potential for the series to develop these concepts further.
Ultimately, I think I just needed more. More world building, more explanation, more character context, and more clarity. The foundations are interesting, and I’m curious to see where the story goes, but for me, the lack of detail and execution meant that some of the potential was lost.
Unfortunately, for me, the execution didn’t quite match the strength of the ideas.
I appreciate that this is the first book in a series and that some of the gaps may be addressed in future instalments. However, Book 1 left me wanting considerably more world-building and clarity. So much of what initially drew me in was the world and its underlying concepts, but I often found myself confused rather than intrigued because I didn’t have enough information to properly understand how everything connected.
Aria’s powers, for example, seemingly emerge despite having been hidden previously, but I wanted much more explanation around why and how this happened. Similarly, Evander’s abilities are intriguing, but I never felt I fully understood what he was capable of or the boundaries of his powers. These could have been fascinating elements of the story, but I was left with more questions than answers.
There were also smaller details that pulled me out of the story. Family members would be mentioned and then seemingly disappear from the narrative without even a brief acknowledgement, despite having supposedly been an important part of the characters’ lives. I wanted those relationships to feel more grounded and consequential.
I also struggled with the sense of time and space within the world. Distances, journeys, and the proximity between different locations and characters were often unclear, which made it difficult for me to develop a real sense of the world or understand how long things should take.
That said, I did still enjoy the book. The themes are undoubtedly its strongest aspect, and there is a lot here that I found genuinely interesting. The ideas surrounding misogyny, women's voices, power, and rebellion are thought provoking, and I can see the potential for the series to develop these concepts further.
Ultimately, I think I just needed more. More world building, more explanation, more character context, and more clarity. The foundations are interesting, and I’m curious to see where the story goes, but for me, the lack of detail and execution meant that some of the potential was lost.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been chomping at the bit to get my hands on this arc. It was absolutely worth the wait, and I can't wait for the next one. I didn't expect it to start out the way that it did, but it makes sense and gives a lot more emotional turmoil throughout the story.
This book centers on Aria and Evander, or should we say Commander, because for most of the book, he is just the Commander, and then you see who Evander really is at the heart of things. As we all know, this is a place where women aren't allowed to have magic. Only men can, and our beloved Aria most definitely has magic. So when they decide to do a purity test for all women, of course, the Commander is gonna be the one who comes. And that begins our story
This is a full-blown enemies to lovers like they are most definitely enemies in the beginning, with more than enough reasons to be. Even though there may be some tension there, it is a hard line of you might be attractive, but I'd rather kill you. It takes a very long time before we ever get to the okay, just hear me out part so you really get to feel it, which I like. I like that it's not a quick, okay, we're on opposite ends of a chessboard, and we've just decided that we're gonna play nice. No, I mean , you're going through every torturous moment before they collide , and it's beautiful.
Now let's talk about our little villains as I like to call them. We have a Villain V and a Villain S. I'm pretty sure Villain V and Villain S are a lot more than partners in crime, but hey, I could be wrong 🤷♂️. Villain V definitely needs to be kicked into another realm if at all possible, because just eww.
Storyline trajectory is really bad and heartbreaking to battlefields and sorrow, to unearthing information and secrets that could topple kingdoms to veil collision to project absolutely not.
So, with all that being said....enjoy 😘
“You dress manipulation up as strategy, and call it necessity to ease your guilt.”
“Light it up then, Commander. We’ll see who survives when the ash settles.”
“So, the little monster has teeth. And apparently she’s clever enough to know precisely where to bite.”
“If the Empire fears words on a page, then maybe the Empire is the one who is weak.”
“Nothing burns without consequence.”
"I could drown in those eyes and thank her for the privilege."
“Architecture is only beautiful because of the weight it bears. You two have not merely built a temple. You are a cathedral.”
"Are you willing to pay the cost of a love that refuses to die?"
This book centers on Aria and Evander, or should we say Commander, because for most of the book, he is just the Commander, and then you see who Evander really is at the heart of things. As we all know, this is a place where women aren't allowed to have magic. Only men can, and our beloved Aria most definitely has magic. So when they decide to do a purity test for all women, of course, the Commander is gonna be the one who comes. And that begins our story
This is a full-blown enemies to lovers like they are most definitely enemies in the beginning, with more than enough reasons to be. Even though there may be some tension there, it is a hard line of you might be attractive, but I'd rather kill you. It takes a very long time before we ever get to the okay, just hear me out part so you really get to feel it, which I like. I like that it's not a quick, okay, we're on opposite ends of a chessboard, and we've just decided that we're gonna play nice. No, I mean , you're going through every torturous moment before they collide , and it's beautiful.
Now let's talk about our little villains as I like to call them. We have a Villain V and a Villain S. I'm pretty sure Villain V and Villain S are a lot more than partners in crime, but hey, I could be wrong 🤷♂️. Villain V definitely needs to be kicked into another realm if at all possible, because just eww.
Storyline trajectory is really bad and heartbreaking to battlefields and sorrow, to unearthing information and secrets that could topple kingdoms to veil collision to project absolutely not.
So, with all that being said....enjoy 😘
“You dress manipulation up as strategy, and call it necessity to ease your guilt.”
“Light it up then, Commander. We’ll see who survives when the ash settles.”
“So, the little monster has teeth. And apparently she’s clever enough to know precisely where to bite.”
“If the Empire fears words on a page, then maybe the Empire is the one who is weak.”
“Nothing burns without consequence.”
"I could drown in those eyes and thank her for the privilege."
“Architecture is only beautiful because of the weight it bears. You two have not merely built a temple. You are a cathedral.”
"Are you willing to pay the cost of a love that refuses to die?"
Review of advance copy
True Rating: 4.25
Thank you to Whimsy Words PR and author J.A Williams for a digital Arc copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts on it.
This was quite the start to what I can see is going to be an epic series. In the beginning we are already met with so much of what is happening in this world and some tragic events that set the tone for the rest of this book. After the start the rest of the first half was a bit slower paced but that was to help us learn more about not only the characters, but the politics, and persecution of any woman that has power. This is a world that has so many layers to it, when men obtain powers they are recruited and trained to be the Empire's weapon, part of the machine that hunts woman down for having any power at all. And that is where our FMC Arianwen comes in, she has the powers the empire have always feared, in order to survive she has to run and keep out of the Empire's reach. Cue our MMC Evander, the Crowned Prince and The Commander of the Empire's Elites. He is ruthless, focused, and has been raised to follow the Empire's orders without question. He has unmatched power and is sent out to retrieve Arianwen, however neither of them expected the collision that happens when they finally come face to face. Their tension was just so good, we really go from absolute loathing and not wanting to accept the pull they have towards each other, to ending up with the exact weapon that the Empire never expected to be used against them: love. They would burn the world down for each other and I can't wait to see what unfolds between them in the next book
I really liked the magic system of this world, the men that show power receive ink across their skin, ultimately helping them settle their magic and leash them to the rules of the empire. This is a world where you do what the Empire says or you pay the price for your transgressions. I loved slowly uncovering more of this world and learning the secrets of what the truth about the empire and their weapons were. There is still so much that we need to learn, and I know we are going to be mind blown when the full revelations unfold.
So if you are looking for an epic story that is going to slowly unfold across the whole series, with a connection that will leave you begging for more than definitely pick this up!
Tropes:
❤️🔥 Feminine rage
❤️🔥 Rebellion
❤️🔥 Burn the world down for each other
❤️🔥 Ruthless Bada$$ mmc
❤️🔥 Forbidden Love & Yearning
❤️🔥 Mainly dual POV (we do get a few other POV's )
Thank you to Whimsy Words PR and author J.A Williams for a digital Arc copy of this book. These are my honest thoughts on it.
This was quite the start to what I can see is going to be an epic series. In the beginning we are already met with so much of what is happening in this world and some tragic events that set the tone for the rest of this book. After the start the rest of the first half was a bit slower paced but that was to help us learn more about not only the characters, but the politics, and persecution of any woman that has power. This is a world that has so many layers to it, when men obtain powers they are recruited and trained to be the Empire's weapon, part of the machine that hunts woman down for having any power at all. And that is where our FMC Arianwen comes in, she has the powers the empire have always feared, in order to survive she has to run and keep out of the Empire's reach. Cue our MMC Evander, the Crowned Prince and The Commander of the Empire's Elites. He is ruthless, focused, and has been raised to follow the Empire's orders without question. He has unmatched power and is sent out to retrieve Arianwen, however neither of them expected the collision that happens when they finally come face to face. Their tension was just so good, we really go from absolute loathing and not wanting to accept the pull they have towards each other, to ending up with the exact weapon that the Empire never expected to be used against them: love. They would burn the world down for each other and I can't wait to see what unfolds between them in the next book
I really liked the magic system of this world, the men that show power receive ink across their skin, ultimately helping them settle their magic and leash them to the rules of the empire. This is a world where you do what the Empire says or you pay the price for your transgressions. I loved slowly uncovering more of this world and learning the secrets of what the truth about the empire and their weapons were. There is still so much that we need to learn, and I know we are going to be mind blown when the full revelations unfold.
So if you are looking for an epic story that is going to slowly unfold across the whole series, with a connection that will leave you begging for more than definitely pick this up!
Tropes:
❤️🔥 Feminine rage
❤️🔥 Rebellion
❤️🔥 Burn the world down for each other
❤️🔥 Ruthless Bada$$ mmc
❤️🔥 Forbidden Love & Yearning
❤️🔥 Mainly dual POV (we do get a few other POV's )
August 30, 2026
✨The Spark Of Rebellion✨
An absolute 6 ⭐️ read with masterful storytelling! One of the best books I have had the pleasure of reading this year!
You know when reading a book that’s commanding and masterfully executed - one that burrowed itself so deep, that it’s going to sit with you for quite some time after the final words....That’s THIS book! I can’t even begin to describe the feelings I had while in the throes of this world! It was an absolute whirlwind of emotions, revelations of truth, and twists.
This debut by JA Williams completely blew me away with its eloquent and powerful prose. I fell deep and hard into this immersive story immediately. There wasn’t anything about this book I didn’t love. The writing is poetic; the plot flows effortlessly; the world is vividly portrayed with vibrant imagery woven in seamlessly; and the magic was interesting, fresh, and unique. The deeply seeded emotions and the rage I felt at the persecution and silencing of women by the hands of tyrannical men hurt my heart to the very core. I felt the rage from Aria as her vengeance grew at the injustices served. I felt Evander’s slip of loyalty at the realization of the truths uncovered. I felt the unwavering loyalty of the men who swore to protect her. I felt the shift of characters as they finally decided to make selfish choices regardless of the repercussions.
I connected with these characters as if I was walking in this world right along side them. Aria and Evander stole my heart and ran away with it. The tension and incredible yearning between them was palpable; and when they finally connected, they were explosive. Their characters are layered and intricate, yet imperfect and flawed in their own way. The side characters add an even deeper layer as they come to life.
After that ending, I am beyond excited and anxious to see where the next installment takes us.
If you enjoy and fantasy with enemies to lovers, deep seated yearning, forbidden magic, rebellion, morally complicated characters, feminine rage and eloquent prose; then please add this one to your TBR immediately. There is also a novella, Bound By Smoke & Ink, that is an introduction to the lore and complex characters. I highly recommend reading it before diving into this book.
Thank you to J.A. Williams and team for the opportunity to read the eARC. You now have a forever fan in me!
An absolute 6 ⭐️ read with masterful storytelling! One of the best books I have had the pleasure of reading this year!
You know when reading a book that’s commanding and masterfully executed - one that burrowed itself so deep, that it’s going to sit with you for quite some time after the final words....That’s THIS book! I can’t even begin to describe the feelings I had while in the throes of this world! It was an absolute whirlwind of emotions, revelations of truth, and twists.
This debut by JA Williams completely blew me away with its eloquent and powerful prose. I fell deep and hard into this immersive story immediately. There wasn’t anything about this book I didn’t love. The writing is poetic; the plot flows effortlessly; the world is vividly portrayed with vibrant imagery woven in seamlessly; and the magic was interesting, fresh, and unique. The deeply seeded emotions and the rage I felt at the persecution and silencing of women by the hands of tyrannical men hurt my heart to the very core. I felt the rage from Aria as her vengeance grew at the injustices served. I felt Evander’s slip of loyalty at the realization of the truths uncovered. I felt the unwavering loyalty of the men who swore to protect her. I felt the shift of characters as they finally decided to make selfish choices regardless of the repercussions.
I connected with these characters as if I was walking in this world right along side them. Aria and Evander stole my heart and ran away with it. The tension and incredible yearning between them was palpable; and when they finally connected, they were explosive. Their characters are layered and intricate, yet imperfect and flawed in their own way. The side characters add an even deeper layer as they come to life.
After that ending, I am beyond excited and anxious to see where the next installment takes us.
If you enjoy and fantasy with enemies to lovers, deep seated yearning, forbidden magic, rebellion, morally complicated characters, feminine rage and eloquent prose; then please add this one to your TBR immediately. There is also a novella, Bound By Smoke & Ink, that is an introduction to the lore and complex characters. I highly recommend reading it before diving into this book.
Thank you to J.A. Williams and team for the opportunity to read the eARC. You now have a forever fan in me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So, jumping right into this, I want to discuss pacing. To me, this feels slow, but it works perfectly here. This is used to give so much more to the world-building, the settings, the motivations, the foundation. I much prefer that we slow down and take the time to ease the book in so we do not miss details.
One large aspect that I saw before reading was the writing style. This book uses a lyrical style, but I don't think it takes anything away from the plot; in fact, I think it adds more. The focus is very much aligned where it needs to be, so using this approach added a grandiose feel that helped give the book a dancier flow.
For characters, I first want to look at a negative. The side characters were so interesting, but I wanted more of their pov’s. I found myself often wondering what they’d have to say, or how they are currently interacting with the plot, especially closer to the ending reveals. With that being said, all the characters were written beautifully. I loved them, and they all showed that depth.
I have a big bonus to add. The map- I feel like a broken record, but I love a map. It feels so simple, yet so huge for me. Then we have a pronunciation guide; the only words in my mind were “Thank you!” There have been entirely too many times that I sit reading and rereading names. I want to get it right and see the vision that the author has, but some are very difficult, especially as someone with dyslexia. This is a massive win, and something that should be standard.
One aspect that felt lacking to me, however, was the stakes. I felt like the stakes for the majority of the book weren’t as high as this book demanded. I understand this is the start of a series, so you cannot play your aces just yet. It feels like all the court cards were reserved for a good chunk.
In conclusion, I would rate this 4,25. This book was great, and I had a great time reading it. I also love a longer book that allows the story to not have that rushing feel, but there were a few things that kept me hovering around the 4-4.5 area for the majority. I would confidently say that this is one of the highlights of the year, and definitely a standout. I would gladly recommend this to anyone who is a fan of the fantasy genre.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review your story! It was a great read, and I cannot wait to see what else is in store for this series!
One large aspect that I saw before reading was the writing style. This book uses a lyrical style, but I don't think it takes anything away from the plot; in fact, I think it adds more. The focus is very much aligned where it needs to be, so using this approach added a grandiose feel that helped give the book a dancier flow.
For characters, I first want to look at a negative. The side characters were so interesting, but I wanted more of their pov’s. I found myself often wondering what they’d have to say, or how they are currently interacting with the plot, especially closer to the ending reveals. With that being said, all the characters were written beautifully. I loved them, and they all showed that depth.
I have a big bonus to add. The map- I feel like a broken record, but I love a map. It feels so simple, yet so huge for me. Then we have a pronunciation guide; the only words in my mind were “Thank you!” There have been entirely too many times that I sit reading and rereading names. I want to get it right and see the vision that the author has, but some are very difficult, especially as someone with dyslexia. This is a massive win, and something that should be standard.
One aspect that felt lacking to me, however, was the stakes. I felt like the stakes for the majority of the book weren’t as high as this book demanded. I understand this is the start of a series, so you cannot play your aces just yet. It feels like all the court cards were reserved for a good chunk.
In conclusion, I would rate this 4,25. This book was great, and I had a great time reading it. I also love a longer book that allows the story to not have that rushing feel, but there were a few things that kept me hovering around the 4-4.5 area for the majority. I would confidently say that this is one of the highlights of the year, and definitely a standout. I would gladly recommend this to anyone who is a fan of the fantasy genre.
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review your story! It was a great read, and I cannot wait to see what else is in store for this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews