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The Oxygen We Burn: Prophecies always catch up
Rule one of a coven mission: don't fall in love with the target.
Rule two: definitely don't pick the wrong target first.
Layla — witch, spy, holder of very strict instructions not to fall for the target — is on a college campus in the human realm. In autumn. In pug socks. And she is the last hope of a realm that is days away from collapsing.
The barrier between worlds is failing. The prophecies are fulfilling. The Coven has been driven from their home, the ground splitting open beneath them.
She thought she'd found him.
She was very, very wrong.
The right prince is brooding, secretive, and has a stare that knows things she hasn't told him. The right prince is the best friend of the one she's already kissed.
And the right prince may have the key to save the realm.
Or burn it to the ground.
The Oxygen We Burn is the first book in a romantasy duology.
For the lovers of:
- Dual POV
- Found family × Witch coven
- Morally grey-ish FMC
- Tortured hero
- Forbidden romance
- Human college setting × Magic Realm
Rule two: definitely don't pick the wrong target first.
Layla — witch, spy, holder of very strict instructions not to fall for the target — is on a college campus in the human realm. In autumn. In pug socks. And she is the last hope of a realm that is days away from collapsing.
The barrier between worlds is failing. The prophecies are fulfilling. The Coven has been driven from their home, the ground splitting open beneath them.
She thought she'd found him.
She was very, very wrong.
The right prince is brooding, secretive, and has a stare that knows things she hasn't told him. The right prince is the best friend of the one she's already kissed.
And the right prince may have the key to save the realm.
Or burn it to the ground.
The Oxygen We Burn is the first book in a romantasy duology.
For the lovers of:
- Dual POV
- Found family × Witch coven
- Morally grey-ish FMC
- Tortured hero
- Forbidden romance
- Human college setting × Magic Realm
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2026
About the author
Ellie Gabriels
1 book3 followersReader first, overthinker of fictional relationships always, iced-soya-latte enthusiast by necessity (thanks, lactose intolerance). I also write adult romantasy — my debut, The Oxygen We Burn, is book one of a duology. Say hi! 🌺
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 2, 2026
✨ARC Book Review✨
2.75/5⭐
This book is written in first person, present tense. It has 2 pov, between Layla and Sam. The last few chapters are in a different pov from the rest of the book, from Maia.
I'm going to warn any future readers now, the pacing is fairly slow. Especially in the beginning. It picks up around the 25% mark then drop a bit post the 60% mark.
I personally wish the romance, was a bit more slow burn. This story is definitely a love at first sight/fated mates trope. Though it doesn't do terrible at it.
The premise is very cool... But with the main characters being so left in the dark all story long, I as the reader also feel left in the dark. Which leaves me with less understanding of what is going on and where it is going. Though the mystery is intriguing, until it is the only thing keeping me going and I start to fall about of it.
Every time I began to fall out of this story, something happened that pulled me in. Not in an exciting "I need to keep going" way but almost in a "the plot needs to move" way.
Now the ending... And what an ending that was... I wish it came from someone we knew. It felt counter productive and I didn't care. Especially as it was from a character I'd grown to dislike for how shed treated Layla the entire book. I made me disconnect from the story.
Either way for me, this story was average. Good idea. Pros and cons that even out. So it got about 3 star.
2.75/5⭐
This book is written in first person, present tense. It has 2 pov, between Layla and Sam. The last few chapters are in a different pov from the rest of the book, from Maia.
I'm going to warn any future readers now, the pacing is fairly slow. Especially in the beginning. It picks up around the 25% mark then drop a bit post the 60% mark.
I personally wish the romance, was a bit more slow burn. This story is definitely a love at first sight/fated mates trope. Though it doesn't do terrible at it.
The premise is very cool... But with the main characters being so left in the dark all story long, I as the reader also feel left in the dark. Which leaves me with less understanding of what is going on and where it is going. Though the mystery is intriguing, until it is the only thing keeping me going and I start to fall about of it.
Every time I began to fall out of this story, something happened that pulled me in. Not in an exciting "I need to keep going" way but almost in a "the plot needs to move" way.
Now the ending... And what an ending that was... I wish it came from someone we knew. It felt counter productive and I didn't care. Especially as it was from a character I'd grown to dislike for how shed treated Layla the entire book. I made me disconnect from the story.
Either way for me, this story was average. Good idea. Pros and cons that even out. So it got about 3 star.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2026
A dying world. An undercover witch. And a man who may hold the answers.
I had the opportunity to read The Oxygen We Burn in advance, and I am officially hooked! The book promised forbidden romance, an undercover FMC, and a “touch her and die” MMC - and it delivered on every one.
We follow Layla, a witch from a coven, who is given an impossible task: find the cure for a dying world. It’s a mission that would overwhelm most people, but Layla faces it with determination, even as the weight of her responsibility grows heavier with every step.
Watching her navigate an unfamiliar world while infiltrating the very people she’s meant to deceive was captivating. With the literal weight of the world on her shoulders, every decision she makes carries real consequences, making it impossible not to root for her.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance, high-stakes action, and characters who feel genuine and believable, The Oxygen We Burn is definitely a book you should pick up!
I had the opportunity to read The Oxygen We Burn in advance, and I am officially hooked! The book promised forbidden romance, an undercover FMC, and a “touch her and die” MMC - and it delivered on every one.
We follow Layla, a witch from a coven, who is given an impossible task: find the cure for a dying world. It’s a mission that would overwhelm most people, but Layla faces it with determination, even as the weight of her responsibility grows heavier with every step.
Watching her navigate an unfamiliar world while infiltrating the very people she’s meant to deceive was captivating. With the literal weight of the world on her shoulders, every decision she makes carries real consequences, making it impossible not to root for her.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance, high-stakes action, and characters who feel genuine and believable, The Oxygen We Burn is definitely a book you should pick up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I hate that I'm going to be the asshole who gives the first 3-star review, but the author said she wanted us to be honest and hopefully I can spare this book from encountering the wrong readers.
This book is very enjoyable, though definitely written for a younger audience than I had anticipated. Going into the story I found myself getting snarkier and snarkier; the settings, the FMC's moral agonizing over some half-hearted duplicity when she's supposed to be morally grey(ish), the uncertainty, the brooding bookish smolder-monster that is our MMC, the poetic descriptions about rain...
And then it hit me, these characters are kids. You might think taking place on a college campus would have given me a heads up, but college knows no age limits. Dorms are what finally made it click in my head. After that it got easier, I just had to put aside my world-weary soul and remember the person I was at ~20. That girl would have eaten this book up in one sitting and spent the rest of the evening daydreaming about them kissing in the rain.
I did thoroughly enjoy the dynamics between characters. The boys had flawless chemistry with each other. The coven's sisterhood vibes were great. Rayn and Luke were a perfect pairing, as were Layla and Sam. All banter felt very genuine and easy. The autumn and campus vibes were well rendered.
If you like YA romance with fantasy elements, I recommend. Below is my far more critical review to help non-YA readers understand why this book may or may not be for them, lest they be swayed by a pretty cover and cheeky synopsis.
---------
As is, even accepting it as YA fiction, I didn't become invested in our characters until a quarter of the way through. I'm a sucker for mutual admissions of brutal, unending loneliness and homesickness. Apparently if you bare your soul just a little, all my jaded grump melts away.
Plot-wise, I feel like we spent a lot of time talking around what's actually wrong. I generally don't go back and refresh myself on a book's blurb before diving in, a story should be able to tell itself, but it would have been very helpful for this one. At 66% of the way through it still wasn't clear what was happening. Ok, so the realm is dying and magic is leaking. But like, why, in what way and how does it actually affect us beyond melting some ice and weakening the veil? We finally started alluding to discord in the realm and calls for independence from border areas, but why? What are the demands? Why can't they be independent? I need lore and world building, some politics, religion...something substantial to warrant all this work we're doing.
And while I'm sure all will be revealed in the sequel, it's not enjoyable to just be left with a whole lot of nothing beyond a half-formed romance. That isn't a cliffhanger, we've just accomplished nothing.
This book is very enjoyable, though definitely written for a younger audience than I had anticipated. Going into the story I found myself getting snarkier and snarkier; the settings, the FMC's moral agonizing over some half-hearted duplicity when she's supposed to be morally grey(ish), the uncertainty, the brooding bookish smolder-monster that is our MMC, the poetic descriptions about rain...
And then it hit me, these characters are kids. You might think taking place on a college campus would have given me a heads up, but college knows no age limits. Dorms are what finally made it click in my head. After that it got easier, I just had to put aside my world-weary soul and remember the person I was at ~20. That girl would have eaten this book up in one sitting and spent the rest of the evening daydreaming about them kissing in the rain.
I did thoroughly enjoy the dynamics between characters. The boys had flawless chemistry with each other. The coven's sisterhood vibes were great. Rayn and Luke were a perfect pairing, as were Layla and Sam. All banter felt very genuine and easy. The autumn and campus vibes were well rendered.
If you like YA romance with fantasy elements, I recommend. Below is my far more critical review to help non-YA readers understand why this book may or may not be for them, lest they be swayed by a pretty cover and cheeky synopsis.
---------
As is, even accepting it as YA fiction, I didn't become invested in our characters until a quarter of the way through. I'm a sucker for mutual admissions of brutal, unending loneliness and homesickness. Apparently if you bare your soul just a little, all my jaded grump melts away.
Plot-wise, I feel like we spent a lot of time talking around what's actually wrong. I generally don't go back and refresh myself on a book's blurb before diving in, a story should be able to tell itself, but it would have been very helpful for this one. At 66% of the way through it still wasn't clear what was happening. Ok, so the realm is dying and magic is leaking. But like, why, in what way and how does it actually affect us beyond melting some ice and weakening the veil? We finally started alluding to discord in the realm and calls for independence from border areas, but why? What are the demands? Why can't they be independent? I need lore and world building, some politics, religion...something substantial to warrant all this work we're doing.
And while I'm sure all will be revealed in the sequel, it's not enjoyable to just be left with a whole lot of nothing beyond a half-formed romance. That isn't a cliffhanger, we've just accomplished nothing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author, Ellie, for letting me read a copy of your debut book early!
Layla is a witch, a spy, and under strict orders not to fall for her target.
With the barrier between worlds collapsing and her realm on the brink of destruction, she's sent to a human college campus to find the prince who could save them all.
There's just one problem.
She kissed the wrong prince...
I loved the writing style, this was such an easy read for me and I kept wanting to go back into the story every time I was at work.
Early on thoughts of Sam? Hot AF, slutty little glasses - they are my weakness.
Layla is sarcastic. hilarious and hugely relatable. I loved all of her inner monologue comments throughout. BUT she is also incredibly smart and calculated and pulled some serious moves in this book.
The banter between our MMCs flows so well that I found myself smiling with them as if I was there alongside them. There's so many comical moments between all the different characters, I have highlighted so many!
Also there's a micro trope moment (that I won't spoil) that I was VERY HAPPY and grateful for.
Getting into the second half of the book, gosh I was feeling so sad for a particular character, wanted to just protect them with bubble wrap because they have a sweet soul.
@Ellie - no rush of course but.... I NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE PROPHECY AND MAGIC ASAP!!!!!
For the lovers of:
- Dual POV
- Found family × Witch coven
- Morally grey-ish FMC
- Tortured hero
- Forbidden romance
- Human college setting × Magic Realm
This one's for you!
Thank you again to Ellie, I know we've only known each other a short while but SO proud of you, what a debut! I can't wait to continue the story in The Oxygen We Breathe!
Layla is a witch, a spy, and under strict orders not to fall for her target.
With the barrier between worlds collapsing and her realm on the brink of destruction, she's sent to a human college campus to find the prince who could save them all.
There's just one problem.
She kissed the wrong prince...
I loved the writing style, this was such an easy read for me and I kept wanting to go back into the story every time I was at work.
Early on thoughts of Sam? Hot AF, slutty little glasses - they are my weakness.
Layla is sarcastic. hilarious and hugely relatable. I loved all of her inner monologue comments throughout. BUT she is also incredibly smart and calculated and pulled some serious moves in this book.
The banter between our MMCs flows so well that I found myself smiling with them as if I was there alongside them. There's so many comical moments between all the different characters, I have highlighted so many!
Also there's a micro trope moment (that I won't spoil) that I was VERY HAPPY and grateful for.
Getting into the second half of the book, gosh I was feeling so sad for a particular character, wanted to just protect them with bubble wrap because they have a sweet soul.
@Ellie - no rush of course but.... I NEED TO KNOW MORE ABOUT THE PROPHECY AND MAGIC ASAP!!!!!
For the lovers of:
- Dual POV
- Found family × Witch coven
- Morally grey-ish FMC
- Tortured hero
- Forbidden romance
- Human college setting × Magic Realm
This one's for you!
Thank you again to Ellie, I know we've only known each other a short while but SO proud of you, what a debut! I can't wait to continue the story in The Oxygen We Breathe!
August 10, 2026
Thank you to the author for this ARC copy
I honestly finished this book in one day.
The upbeat flow and writing style just keep you going, finding myself wanting to find out more about the “hidden connections” after each chapter.
Clearly book 1 was the set up to “the main story”, as it left us with more questions than answers😂
While I can see where some of this is going, i had a good time with this book, so I’m still looking forward to the sequel😊
I would recommend this book to people who are newer to fantasy, or just fancy something a bit more “easy going”.
The vibe of the book is more lighthearted than some, but I don’t mean this in a bad way at all, as not everything should be 1000pages long, and making you cry😂
The reader is thrown straight in the middle of the story, with little world building and “simpler” characters to follow.
While I wouldn’t describe the MMC as morally grey, he’s still a broody, secretive, dark and handsome guy.
On the other hand the FMC, while presented with a moral dilemma, is not the super troubled heroine of epic fantasy.
Still I enjoyed both characters just the same, and to be honest it was a great read for a weekend day.
While I have some ideas on Sam’s power and past, I’m not sure how this connects to Layla and I’m curious to find out😜
Again, I’m looking forward to book 2!
I honestly finished this book in one day.
The upbeat flow and writing style just keep you going, finding myself wanting to find out more about the “hidden connections” after each chapter.
Clearly book 1 was the set up to “the main story”, as it left us with more questions than answers😂
While I can see where some of this is going, i had a good time with this book, so I’m still looking forward to the sequel😊
I would recommend this book to people who are newer to fantasy, or just fancy something a bit more “easy going”.
The vibe of the book is more lighthearted than some, but I don’t mean this in a bad way at all, as not everything should be 1000pages long, and making you cry😂
The reader is thrown straight in the middle of the story, with little world building and “simpler” characters to follow.
While I wouldn’t describe the MMC as morally grey, he’s still a broody, secretive, dark and handsome guy.
On the other hand the FMC, while presented with a moral dilemma, is not the super troubled heroine of epic fantasy.
Still I enjoyed both characters just the same, and to be honest it was a great read for a weekend day.
While I have some ideas on Sam’s power and past, I’m not sure how this connects to Layla and I’m curious to find out😜
Again, I’m looking forward to book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What an ending! What a cliffhanger! I need Book 2 right now, I have to know what happens next. 2027 seriously needs to hurry up!
I absolutely loved this story. The first half had me as a giggling mess because Layla and Sam were so adorable trying to navigate their feelings, even though they weren't supposed to be falling in love. Then the second half completely shifted gears, and I had to lock in because I needed to know how everything was going to unfold.
I also loved the little details throughout the book. As someone who already loves wearing colourful and patterned socks, Layla has officially inspired me to start buying socks with cute messages on them.
I've never really been someone who has a book boyfriend, but I guess Bookstagram has finally influenced me because Sam is the ultimate book boyfriend. He's over 6 feet tall, has broad shoulders, reads, wears glasses, and actually pays attention. What more could you ask for?
I also loved that we got both Layla's and Sam's perspectives. So many romance novels only give us the female point of view, and I always find myself wondering what's going on in the guy's head. Getting both sides made their relationship feel even more real and made me connect with them so much more.
I absolutely loved this story. The first half had me as a giggling mess because Layla and Sam were so adorable trying to navigate their feelings, even though they weren't supposed to be falling in love. Then the second half completely shifted gears, and I had to lock in because I needed to know how everything was going to unfold.
I also loved the little details throughout the book. As someone who already loves wearing colourful and patterned socks, Layla has officially inspired me to start buying socks with cute messages on them.
I've never really been someone who has a book boyfriend, but I guess Bookstagram has finally influenced me because Sam is the ultimate book boyfriend. He's over 6 feet tall, has broad shoulders, reads, wears glasses, and actually pays attention. What more could you ask for?
I also loved that we got both Layla's and Sam's perspectives. So many romance novels only give us the female point of view, and I always find myself wondering what's going on in the guy's head. Getting both sides made their relationship feel even more real and made me connect with them so much more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review..
"Don't hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn."
"Some bonds were buried. Some were stolen. And some have been waiting twelve years to remember themselves"
The Oxygen we Burn is the astounding debut novel by Ellie Gabriel! I highly suggest snagging the Pre-Order available on KU!! If your book vibe is: Forbidden Romance, Morally Grey-ish FMC, Tortured Broody MMC, Found Family/Coven, Multiple POV’s, and College Setting - this one is for you!!
Full of magic, witches, lost princes, and the quest to save a dying realm. The world building was unique, the characters so easy to fall in love with! I devoured the book in one day!
The FMC, Layla - is quirky, dedicated to the cause at the risk of losing her heart, funny, slightly unhinged, sarcastic with a side of badassery. The MMC, Sam - should grab all of the book girlies hearts! He is broody, tortured, and loves to read!!! I was a sucker for the side characters as well! Rayn and Luke are hilarious!
Buckle up.. cause the cliffhanger is unhinged! Ellie, ma’am.. I’m going to need you to cancel all your plans and write nonstop! 🙃
"Don't hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn."
"Some bonds were buried. Some were stolen. And some have been waiting twelve years to remember themselves"
The Oxygen we Burn is the astounding debut novel by Ellie Gabriel! I highly suggest snagging the Pre-Order available on KU!! If your book vibe is: Forbidden Romance, Morally Grey-ish FMC, Tortured Broody MMC, Found Family/Coven, Multiple POV’s, and College Setting - this one is for you!!
Full of magic, witches, lost princes, and the quest to save a dying realm. The world building was unique, the characters so easy to fall in love with! I devoured the book in one day!
The FMC, Layla - is quirky, dedicated to the cause at the risk of losing her heart, funny, slightly unhinged, sarcastic with a side of badassery. The MMC, Sam - should grab all of the book girlies hearts! He is broody, tortured, and loves to read!!! I was a sucker for the side characters as well! Rayn and Luke are hilarious!
Buckle up.. cause the cliffhanger is unhinged! Ellie, ma’am.. I’m going to need you to cancel all your plans and write nonstop! 🙃
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Oxygen We Burn completely hooked me from the very first chapter.
One of my favorite things was the blend of settings. The story seamlessly moves between a college campus in the real world and a magical realm filled with witches, prophecies, and the cutest tiny fire-breathing dragon. It felt fresh and immersive.
The chemistry between the MMC and FMC was incredible. Even as a kisses-only romance, the tension was so well written that every interaction had me eagerly turning the pages. I especially loved the internal conflict the FMC faces as she's torn between her growing attraction to the MMC and the responsibility of carrying out what she's been asked to do. That emotional push and pull made their relationship even more compelling.
Ellie Gabriels has created a fascinating world with characters I couldn't help but root for. And while I loved every minute of this book, there's one warning I have: be prepared for a cliffhanger! This first installment leaves you desperately needing the next book RIGHT NOW. And I just hope that what was implied at the end of this book does not actually happen! ;)
One of my favorite things was the blend of settings. The story seamlessly moves between a college campus in the real world and a magical realm filled with witches, prophecies, and the cutest tiny fire-breathing dragon. It felt fresh and immersive.
The chemistry between the MMC and FMC was incredible. Even as a kisses-only romance, the tension was so well written that every interaction had me eagerly turning the pages. I especially loved the internal conflict the FMC faces as she's torn between her growing attraction to the MMC and the responsibility of carrying out what she's been asked to do. That emotional push and pull made their relationship even more compelling.
Ellie Gabriels has created a fascinating world with characters I couldn't help but root for. And while I loved every minute of this book, there's one warning I have: be prepared for a cliffhanger! This first installment leaves you desperately needing the next book RIGHT NOW. And I just hope that what was implied at the end of this book does not actually happen! ;)
July 27, 2026
Thank you to the author for the advance readers copy
In the beginning I thought it would be slower paced reading, but as the book progressed so did the stakes. Enjoyed the world building, the complex magic system, and character development in The Oxygen We Burn. The story follows Layla a witch that’s sent to the human realm to track the prince from her realm that disappeared. Leaving her family behind to fight a completely different battle. I enjoyed that Layla is quirky in her own way and is unapologetically herself. When she finally finds the prince of did she. Ryan and Luke are protective of each other and have a brother like relationship that filled my heart with joy for them. But what happens when the barrier between the human realm and the witches realm is braking?
What happens when Layla goes missing and the prince return to his kingdom? How do they move forward when there’s a prophecy hanging over them?
In the beginning I thought it would be slower paced reading, but as the book progressed so did the stakes. Enjoyed the world building, the complex magic system, and character development in The Oxygen We Burn. The story follows Layla a witch that’s sent to the human realm to track the prince from her realm that disappeared. Leaving her family behind to fight a completely different battle. I enjoyed that Layla is quirky in her own way and is unapologetically herself. When she finally finds the prince of did she. Ryan and Luke are protective of each other and have a brother like relationship that filled my heart with joy for them. But what happens when the barrier between the human realm and the witches realm is braking?
What happens when Layla goes missing and the prince return to his kingdom? How do they move forward when there’s a prophecy hanging over them?
September 2, 2026
I loved the writing style! It flows so easily, and the story is fast-paced and captivating from the very beginning.
The premise is so good: witches, humans, magic, mystery… I was immediately hooked.
My only complaint? The story was way too short! I really needed more. But as the first book in a duology, it’s a great foundation for what’s coming next. So many questions were raised, and now I NEED answers! There’s already so much mystery surrounding the story, and I really hope the second book gives us all the answers.
I loved following Sam, Luke, and Rayn on their journey to find Layla, and I absolutely loved Layla’s character.
And this isn’t just a simple love story. While romance plays an important part in the story, we mostly get that yearning, love at first sight, forbidden love, and all those feelings that make you want more.
And no spice! I actually loved that. This feels like a great read for YA readers who enjoy fantasy, magic, and romance without the spice.
The premise is so good: witches, humans, magic, mystery… I was immediately hooked.
My only complaint? The story was way too short! I really needed more. But as the first book in a duology, it’s a great foundation for what’s coming next. So many questions were raised, and now I NEED answers! There’s already so much mystery surrounding the story, and I really hope the second book gives us all the answers.
I loved following Sam, Luke, and Rayn on their journey to find Layla, and I absolutely loved Layla’s character.
And this isn’t just a simple love story. While romance plays an important part in the story, we mostly get that yearning, love at first sight, forbidden love, and all those feelings that make you want more.
And no spice! I actually loved that. This feels like a great read for YA readers who enjoy fantasy, magic, and romance without the spice.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Reader Review
Mistaken identity had me hooked early on in this book.
The build up between the FMC and MMC is slow. She needs to get him to come back to their home land to help save their kingdom from the prophecy coming true, he doesn’t know who she really is.
They are strongly attracted to each other, but he holds back because he thinks he’s no good for her, and she is torn because she was sent to do a job.
The scene where they are caught in a rainstorm and end up under an overhang in an alley ramped everything up so fast, the spice was SPICING!
I couldn’t read the rest of this book fast enough and by the time I got to the end and the cliffhanger, I was literally cursing Ellie Gabriels’ name in vain because I WANT MORE NOW!
Character build-up, storyline, smolder, deception, fantasy, kingdom ruin………Chef’s kiss, no notes!
Mistaken identity had me hooked early on in this book.
The build up between the FMC and MMC is slow. She needs to get him to come back to their home land to help save their kingdom from the prophecy coming true, he doesn’t know who she really is.
They are strongly attracted to each other, but he holds back because he thinks he’s no good for her, and she is torn because she was sent to do a job.
The scene where they are caught in a rainstorm and end up under an overhang in an alley ramped everything up so fast, the spice was SPICING!
I couldn’t read the rest of this book fast enough and by the time I got to the end and the cliffhanger, I was literally cursing Ellie Gabriels’ name in vain because I WANT MORE NOW!
Character build-up, storyline, smolder, deception, fantasy, kingdom ruin………Chef’s kiss, no notes!
Review of advance copy
If your book vibe is…
💌 Forbidden Romance
🩶 Morally Grey-ish FMC
💔 Tortured MMC
🧹 Found Family/Coven
🏫 College Setting
Then The Oxygen We Burn by Ellie Gabriels is for you!
What an amazing debut book from Ellie Gabriels!
We’ve got multiple POVs. A college setting and a magical world that feels fresh and inviting. A witches coven that feels supportive and welcoming. A sweet, but strong FMC who is a little morally grey. And don’t forget, the brooding, tortured MMC.
The burn was slow, spicy, and made me want so much more!
The side characters were written with such depth that I became very invested in their future and wanted to know more about them.
This book kept me in my seat and I read it in one sitting! I’m excited to read more from Ellie in the future!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
💌 Forbidden Romance
🩶 Morally Grey-ish FMC
💔 Tortured MMC
🧹 Found Family/Coven
🏫 College Setting
Then The Oxygen We Burn by Ellie Gabriels is for you!
What an amazing debut book from Ellie Gabriels!
We’ve got multiple POVs. A college setting and a magical world that feels fresh and inviting. A witches coven that feels supportive and welcoming. A sweet, but strong FMC who is a little morally grey. And don’t forget, the brooding, tortured MMC.
The burn was slow, spicy, and made me want so much more!
The side characters were written with such depth that I became very invested in their future and wanted to know more about them.
This book kept me in my seat and I read it in one sitting! I’m excited to read more from Ellie in the future!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review, thank you!!!
A disguises prince, a spy witch, and a prophecy that hangs over everyone's heads. The Oxygen We Burn is a fast-paced and fun beginning to a fantasy duology that just keeps you hooked. I am impatient for book 2!
The characters were quick witted, and memorable, with us readers mainly following Layla and Sam. The dynamic between these two was squeal worthy.
The plot was very fun for those who love prophecies and mysteries. It felt once we resolved one thing, two or three more questions popped up, and it made reading a need, not a want.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, and you hold more questions than answers, but I think this will tie perfectly into the next book once we are blessed with it.
Overall, the vibes were great, the characters were fun, and the plot was thick. This is a perfect quick read for anyone needing a little magic in their life.
A disguises prince, a spy witch, and a prophecy that hangs over everyone's heads. The Oxygen We Burn is a fast-paced and fun beginning to a fantasy duology that just keeps you hooked. I am impatient for book 2!
The characters were quick witted, and memorable, with us readers mainly following Layla and Sam. The dynamic between these two was squeal worthy.
The plot was very fun for those who love prophecies and mysteries. It felt once we resolved one thing, two or three more questions popped up, and it made reading a need, not a want.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, and you hold more questions than answers, but I think this will tie perfectly into the next book once we are blessed with it.
Overall, the vibes were great, the characters were fun, and the plot was thick. This is a perfect quick read for anyone needing a little magic in their life.
Review of advance copy
EXCUSE ME!!! WHAT AN AMAZING READ!!!
I have nothing to complain about this; I whole heartedly enjoyed this book.
where to I even begin....
the world I was thrown into is just spot on; I enjoyed certain aspects a lot which made me fall in love with this book more.
and don't get me started with the characters. they are just amazing and made me feel things too, it was a roller coaster of emotions for me. I couldn't get enough of them.
I also love the magic; it was really fun to explore and see what might be hidden down one corner.
this book is thrilling, the love was sparking and the stakes were high.
10/10 star read.
to the author: what an amazing book you have made, I fell in love from the very first page. thank you so much for entrusting me to read and review it, it is an absolute joy and honor to read.
I have nothing to complain about this; I whole heartedly enjoyed this book.
where to I even begin....
the world I was thrown into is just spot on; I enjoyed certain aspects a lot which made me fall in love with this book more.
and don't get me started with the characters. they are just amazing and made me feel things too, it was a roller coaster of emotions for me. I couldn't get enough of them.
I also love the magic; it was really fun to explore and see what might be hidden down one corner.
this book is thrilling, the love was sparking and the stakes were high.
10/10 star read.
to the author: what an amazing book you have made, I fell in love from the very first page. thank you so much for entrusting me to read and review it, it is an absolute joy and honor to read.
August 1, 2026
“Don’t hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn”
I LIVE for books with opening line bangers like this!
I could say I loved this book… but no; I’m OBSESSED with this book 😍 The tension between Layla (FMC) and Sam (MMC) had me eyeball reading sooo hard. He yearns. She yearns.
But she is not supposed to fall for him, and he is trying to stay away from her.
How does this work when she’s spying on him?
Hint: It doesn’t.
This spellbinding read is full of witches, magic, forbidden attraction, prophecies, and danger to not one… but multiple realms.
Tropes:
🍁Broody Prince MMC
🌸Morally Grey FMC
🍁Hidden Identities
🌸Found Family/Coven
🍁Touch Her & D!e
🌸Human College/Magic Realm
🍁Dual POV
🌸Forbidden Romance
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice O’ Meter - 🍅
ONE HUNDRED PERCENT recommend 💯
Thank you Ellie! ♥️
I LIVE for books with opening line bangers like this!
I could say I loved this book… but no; I’m OBSESSED with this book 😍 The tension between Layla (FMC) and Sam (MMC) had me eyeball reading sooo hard. He yearns. She yearns.
But she is not supposed to fall for him, and he is trying to stay away from her.
How does this work when she’s spying on him?
Hint: It doesn’t.
This spellbinding read is full of witches, magic, forbidden attraction, prophecies, and danger to not one… but multiple realms.
Tropes:
🍁Broody Prince MMC
🌸Morally Grey FMC
🍁Hidden Identities
🌸Found Family/Coven
🍁Touch Her & D!e
🌸Human College/Magic Realm
🍁Dual POV
🌸Forbidden Romance
Rating - 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice O’ Meter - 🍅
ONE HUNDRED PERCENT recommend 💯
Thank you Ellie! ♥️
August 2, 2026
4.5⭐️
**Received advance review copy of this book. This is my honest review.**
The Oxygen we Burn is a faced paced, quick read that will have you on at the edge of your seat and wanting more (in a good way)!
Layla is a great FMC, I really enjoyed her POV and seeing how different she is from her fellow witch sisters. Sam on the other hand, 🥵 I love me a broody man. His POV was amazing. I don’t know how else to explain it but he truly is main character energy thru and thru. His internal turmoil?! Ugh, I couldn’t get enough.
I loved Ellie Gabriels’ world building! The college setting was a nice touch when it came to connecting our MCs. Their yearning for each other was top tier slow burn. I was also super surprised to the turn of events 👀. Definitely was not expecting that, I’m looking forward to see what happens with Sam and Layla in book 2.
**Received advance review copy of this book. This is my honest review.**
The Oxygen we Burn is a faced paced, quick read that will have you on at the edge of your seat and wanting more (in a good way)!
Layla is a great FMC, I really enjoyed her POV and seeing how different she is from her fellow witch sisters. Sam on the other hand, 🥵 I love me a broody man. His POV was amazing. I don’t know how else to explain it but he truly is main character energy thru and thru. His internal turmoil?! Ugh, I couldn’t get enough.
I loved Ellie Gabriels’ world building! The college setting was a nice touch when it came to connecting our MCs. Their yearning for each other was top tier slow burn. I was also super surprised to the turn of events 👀. Definitely was not expecting that, I’m looking forward to see what happens with Sam and Layla in book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy from Author
Ok guys, so fantasy is a huge favorite of mine but I enjoyed how this book didn’t just throw up fantasy on you. Layla is a witch that has been tasked to find the Prince of their realm to help cure the rot that has taken over their Kingdom. Well of course she had to pass through the veil to earth and live as a college student. Guess what though she found the Prince and now she has gotten close to him hoping he will tell her all the secrets to help protect their realm.
It took me a few chapters to really lock in as this is the 1st book of the duology so there was a good amount of story building. But once you really dive into Layla’s calm and kind character and throw in 2 friends, one dark and broody and the other full of sarcasm you are sucked in. So does Layla find the Prince and what happens when he really finds out what she is doing there???
Thank you Ellie for gifting me this ARC, what a riveting story and I cannot wait for Book 2. Also, the ending, WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!
Ok guys, so fantasy is a huge favorite of mine but I enjoyed how this book didn’t just throw up fantasy on you. Layla is a witch that has been tasked to find the Prince of their realm to help cure the rot that has taken over their Kingdom. Well of course she had to pass through the veil to earth and live as a college student. Guess what though she found the Prince and now she has gotten close to him hoping he will tell her all the secrets to help protect their realm.
It took me a few chapters to really lock in as this is the 1st book of the duology so there was a good amount of story building. But once you really dive into Layla’s calm and kind character and throw in 2 friends, one dark and broody and the other full of sarcasm you are sucked in. So does Layla find the Prince and what happens when he really finds out what she is doing there???
Thank you Ellie for gifting me this ARC, what a riveting story and I cannot wait for Book 2. Also, the ending, WHAT A CLIFFHANGER!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reviewed as an ARC
Wow. If I didn't have kids to feed this would have been read in 12 hours. I absorbed this story.
"Don't hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn." Wise words to live life by as humans even if this was meant for those with magic in the book.
There was great storytelling and funny moments. "Photographing his private thoughts while he was drugged on his coach" had me chuckling as it would be something I could see myself doing. The bear story was great. I loved that insight to the relationship between the MMC and his best friend.
There is yearning with a bit forbidden love which only one side knows about. Now the new relationship added at the end? What a twist. Let's hope book two isn't far off from being written and released!
Wow. If I didn't have kids to feed this would have been read in 12 hours. I absorbed this story.
"Don't hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn." Wise words to live life by as humans even if this was meant for those with magic in the book.
There was great storytelling and funny moments. "Photographing his private thoughts while he was drugged on his coach" had me chuckling as it would be something I could see myself doing. The bear story was great. I loved that insight to the relationship between the MMC and his best friend.
There is yearning with a bit forbidden love which only one side knows about. Now the new relationship added at the end? What a twist. Let's hope book two isn't far off from being written and released!
July 9, 2026
ARC READER
Thank you Ellie for trusting me with your book!
If you enjoy:
Dual POV
Found Family/Coven
Morally grey-ish FMC
Forbidden Romance
Human College Setting x Magic Realm
This is your book. While it did take me a bit to get to the story. I am glad I made it to the ending. It picked up more and more as the story went on. There were unexpected shifts in the story.
I really liked the FMC. She gives with her whole heart, and loves those around her fiercely.
but man, what a cliff hanging plot twist! Look forward to where you take part 2! This was a pretty easy read. The story was easy to follow. The slow burn is good but keeps the plot. No spice (which is totally fine) I enjoyed it!
Thank you Ellie for trusting me with your book!
If you enjoy:
Dual POV
Found Family/Coven
Morally grey-ish FMC
Forbidden Romance
Human College Setting x Magic Realm
This is your book. While it did take me a bit to get to the story. I am glad I made it to the ending. It picked up more and more as the story went on. There were unexpected shifts in the story.
I really liked the FMC. She gives with her whole heart, and loves those around her fiercely.
but man, what a cliff hanging plot twist! Look forward to where you take part 2! This was a pretty easy read. The story was easy to follow. The slow burn is good but keeps the plot. No spice (which is totally fine) I enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Don't hunt the flame. Be the oxygen it needs to burn.."
Layla is a witch from a dying rhelm, it's barrier between it and the human world collapsing. She is sent on a mission into the human world to find the prince from their kingdom who mysteriously vanished two years before.. She needs to find answers, she needs to save her home..
But does she find what she's expecting???
I very much enjoyed this debut novel from Ellie Gabriels. I feel like a lot of this book was setting the stage/building the world and it was done beautifully, and because of that I have a feeling we're going to be in for a wild ride with book 2! (yes for those wondering.. Cliffhanger!!)
Thank you so much Ellie for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy of your beautiful book!
Layla is a witch from a dying rhelm, it's barrier between it and the human world collapsing. She is sent on a mission into the human world to find the prince from their kingdom who mysteriously vanished two years before.. She needs to find answers, she needs to save her home..
But does she find what she's expecting???
I very much enjoyed this debut novel from Ellie Gabriels. I feel like a lot of this book was setting the stage/building the world and it was done beautifully, and because of that I have a feeling we're going to be in for a wild ride with book 2! (yes for those wondering.. Cliffhanger!!)
Thank you so much Ellie for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy of your beautiful book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
The Oxygen We Burn was a great read. I enjoy Ellie Gabriels writing style, her vibrant descriptions of what the characters could see, smell and feel pulled me in, along with her picturesque words I also had some great moments where I was smiling giddy and kicking my feet. I appreciated that it was mainly dual POV, especially getting both sides of the budding romance(and the yearning) between the MMCs with a third POV I wasn't expecting. This first book began to paint the picture, how things are developing and how the characters are connected. Towards the end we get some great twists and it left me with questions and a great cliffhanger. I am excited for the next book, and hope we get more from the side characters, found family, prophecy, magic and of course maybe more on a familiar?!
The Oxygen We Burn was a great read. I enjoy Ellie Gabriels writing style, her vibrant descriptions of what the characters could see, smell and feel pulled me in, along with her picturesque words I also had some great moments where I was smiling giddy and kicking my feet. I appreciated that it was mainly dual POV, especially getting both sides of the budding romance(and the yearning) between the MMCs with a third POV I wasn't expecting. This first book began to paint the picture, how things are developing and how the characters are connected. Towards the end we get some great twists and it left me with questions and a great cliffhanger. I am excited for the next book, and hope we get more from the side characters, found family, prophecy, magic and of course maybe more on a familiar?!
Review of advance copy received from Auteur
The Oxygen We Burn is an incredibly intriguing, fast-paced read where the pages practically turn themselves.
The book starts off with a strong, captivating romance focus 💚 but as the story progresses, it takes a brilliant turn into a fantasy world. 🐲
The tension between the characters builds beautifully alongside the mystery.
I am losing my mind over that cliffhanger. The ending leaves you absolutely desperate for the second half of this duology.
"𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒅. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒏. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒔"
gives me literal chills just thinking about where the story is going next.
The book starts off with a strong, captivating romance focus 💚 but as the story progresses, it takes a brilliant turn into a fantasy world. 🐲
The tension between the characters builds beautifully alongside the mystery.
I am losing my mind over that cliffhanger. The ending leaves you absolutely desperate for the second half of this duology.
"𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒃𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒅. 𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒆𝒏. 𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒂𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒔"
gives me literal chills just thinking about where the story is going next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review as I received advance copy from author **
I really appreciated getting an advance copy of this book to read and first want to state what I enjoyed: a unique magical system, unique take on witches and fae, the tension was ‘chefs kiss’ good.
What I didn’t really like was Rayn and her attacking Sam and Luke and then going with them. I felt that should have been Layla. I also needed more explanation of the tension between the two species/races in the series. It also got dropped about a possible bond? Basically I just had questions still but likely they’ll be answering them in book two and I’m supposed to have questions! 😊
I really appreciated getting an advance copy of this book to read and first want to state what I enjoyed: a unique magical system, unique take on witches and fae, the tension was ‘chefs kiss’ good.
What I didn’t really like was Rayn and her attacking Sam and Luke and then going with them. I felt that should have been Layla. I also needed more explanation of the tension between the two species/races in the series. It also got dropped about a possible bond? Basically I just had questions still but likely they’ll be answering them in book two and I’m supposed to have questions! 😊
August 9, 2026
This was such an easy and quick read, I loved how unique and addictive it was. Layla is trying to find the prince in the human world at a college, that could save them all in their magical world. The problem is she seduces the wrong man....WHOOPS! But the real prince, Sam, is so much better in every way! He is broody, funny, loves to read, and just every girl's dream! The world building and character building is so unique, I loved every second of it. The banter between them was off the charts, they were just so good together. I loved this story so much and that cliffhanger was just OMG!! I need the next adventure nowwww!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader Copy Recieved by Author
This book is a wild ride! We've got prophecies, magic, a spy who's way too good at her job (and maybe falling for the target), a prince who's secretly a prince (surprise!), a dragon who likes pie, and enough betrayal to make your head spin. It's a messy, dangerous, and surprisingly sweet mix of fantasy and romance. Highly recommend if you like your heroes with a side of existential dread and your heroines with a knack for accidental seduction. 5/5 stars!
This book is a wild ride! We've got prophecies, magic, a spy who's way too good at her job (and maybe falling for the target), a prince who's secretly a prince (surprise!), a dragon who likes pie, and enough betrayal to make your head spin. It's a messy, dangerous, and surprisingly sweet mix of fantasy and romance. Highly recommend if you like your heroes with a side of existential dread and your heroines with a knack for accidental seduction. 5/5 stars!
June 22, 2026
this debut is absolutely amazing & I devoured it in a day! the cliffhanger has me dying for book 2. this world was so easy to understand and it was a quick paced story that that me hooked the whole time. I am literally obsessed with sparky and living for the banter between luke& rayn; they totally need a novella. there are witches, a powerless prince, portals and a magic realm I just adore. thank you ellie for the ARC and please give this story a go 😊
July 3, 2026
ARC reader review! ❤️ What a beautifully written and unique debut by Ellie!! I was immediately IN from the first chapter, and stayed locked in throughout. If you love magical and political intrigue and contemporary romance, you will devour this book.
The last quarter flew by with high stakes action and unexpected turns! All I wanted was to know what was going to happen next! When I landed on the last page it was so bittersweet because I want the resttttt!!
Thanks Ellie!
The last quarter flew by with high stakes action and unexpected turns! All I wanted was to know what was going to happen next! When I landed on the last page it was so bittersweet because I want the resttttt!!
Thanks Ellie!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review coming in hot!!
What a fantastic debut novel from the amazing Ellie Gabriel's!
A story full of magic, witches, lost princes, and a quest to save a dying realm. The world building was unique and easy to follow, and I devoured the book in dual pov, but I was a sucker for the side characters. I'm living for Rayn and Luke!! And a little Sparky on the side 😜
The story will leave you with so many unanswered questions that you'll be dying for the next one!
What a fantastic debut novel from the amazing Ellie Gabriel's!
A story full of magic, witches, lost princes, and a quest to save a dying realm. The world building was unique and easy to follow, and I devoured the book in dual pov, but I was a sucker for the side characters. I'm living for Rayn and Luke!! And a little Sparky on the side 😜
The story will leave you with so many unanswered questions that you'll be dying for the next one!
June 27, 2026
I received an ARC copy from the author.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved the tension and buildup in the relationship between the FMC and MMC. The last few chapters were so riveting, in my mind I knew exactly how it was going to end, but I was positively shocked with the ending. I can’t wait for the second book!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! I loved the tension and buildup in the relationship between the FMC and MMC. The last few chapters were so riveting, in my mind I knew exactly how it was going to end, but I was positively shocked with the ending. I can’t wait for the second book!
August 20, 2026
The book equivalent of curling up with your favourite blanket and a pumpkin spice latte (if there were some high stakes involved, like spilling said latte on said blanket). We've got witches, we've got brooding princes, we've got found family and mistaken identity. Oh, and plenty of funky socks. A true delight to read.
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