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Axis of Fire
She was raised to believe her magic was madness.
He is the only man powerful enough to control it.
After twenty-five years of hiding the fire inside her, Illariana Arden discovers the terrifying truth: she was never broken. She was born into the wrong world.
Noveris is a universe of twelve magical realms, where the strongest mages are trained at Istmond Academy. But Illariana's unstable fire is unlike anything the academy has ever seen, and Airis Kairos—one of the legendary Twelve Strongest—is the only mage capable of controlling it.
Arrogant, secretive, and impossible to resist, Airis becomes the mentor she never wanted.
As deadly trials draw closer and a hidden enemy begins targeting the academy's most powerful students, Illariana finds herself caught between dangerous magic, forbidden attraction, and secrets that could change everything she believes about herself.
Because controlling her fire may not be her greatest challenge.
Trusting the man who can tame it might be.
**NOVERIS: AXIS OF FIRE** is the first book in an adult magical-academy romantasy series featuring elemental magic, deadly trials, forbidden mentor romance, slow-burn tension, hidden identities, political intrigue, and twelve interconnected worlds.
He is the only man powerful enough to control it.
After twenty-five years of hiding the fire inside her, Illariana Arden discovers the terrifying truth: she was never broken. She was born into the wrong world.
Noveris is a universe of twelve magical realms, where the strongest mages are trained at Istmond Academy. But Illariana's unstable fire is unlike anything the academy has ever seen, and Airis Kairos—one of the legendary Twelve Strongest—is the only mage capable of controlling it.
Arrogant, secretive, and impossible to resist, Airis becomes the mentor she never wanted.
As deadly trials draw closer and a hidden enemy begins targeting the academy's most powerful students, Illariana finds herself caught between dangerous magic, forbidden attraction, and secrets that could change everything she believes about herself.
Because controlling her fire may not be her greatest challenge.
Trusting the man who can tame it might be.
**NOVERIS: AXIS OF FIRE** is the first book in an adult magical-academy romantasy series featuring elemental magic, deadly trials, forbidden mentor romance, slow-burn tension, hidden identities, political intrigue, and twelve interconnected worlds.
Paperback
Published September 26, 2026
About the author
Lily Siu
5 books5 followersLily Siu writes stories about the people we become after everything falls apart.
"I don't write perfect characters. I write people who are trying to survive."
Her novels blend romance, fantasy, and psychological depth, exploring love, identity, sacrifice, and the choices that define us.
Known for emotionally charged relationships, slow-burn tension, and richly layered worlds, she creates stories where every secret matters and every character has something worth fighting for.
She is currently writing Noveris, an epic romantasy series set across twelve interconnected worlds, where magic, politics, ancient mysteries, and impossible love collide.
Whether you're here for breathtaking worldbuilding, unforgettable characters, or emotions that linger long after the final page, you're in the right place.
"I don't write perfect characters. I write people who are trying to survive."
Her novels blend romance, fantasy, and psychological depth, exploring love, identity, sacrifice, and the choices that define us.
Known for emotionally charged relationships, slow-burn tension, and richly layered worlds, she creates stories where every secret matters and every character has something worth fighting for.
She is currently writing Noveris, an epic romantasy series set across twelve interconnected worlds, where magic, politics, ancient mysteries, and impossible love collide.
Whether you're here for breathtaking worldbuilding, unforgettable characters, or emotions that linger long after the final page, you're in the right place.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 13, 2026
Okay where do I start?
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, where twelve realms based on the zodiac calendar allow people access to magical gifts.
I simply didn’t enjoy this book. I felt like there was too much going on between all of the characters. Adding Stasia’s perspective did more to confuse me than it did to add anything to the plot. There were too many plot points and the entire book felt like it was leading up to something that never really happened. There was no real resolution to the book, because there were too many questions unanswered.
Onto the characters themselves. Stasia was cool, I love her, even though sometimes her perspective felt unnecessary and confusing. Everyone else varied between extremely annoying to mildly annoying. Ria felt like she had no agency and was a pawn in her own story. Airis was annoying, and also his characterisation bored me a little. He was also just so… changeable? Pattern recognition specialists couldn’t track his next move.
My biggest issue with this book boils down to the following:
1. The plot started way too late in the book. The actual trials didn’t start until the 70% mark, and all the world building was so expositional I felt overwhelmed.
2. The formatting was irritating. Every sentence was a new line, which made the actual writing feel repetitive even though it wasn’t. It took away from the rhythm of the words. I know it’s a petty reason to dislike a book, but it genuinely impacted my reading experience (especially when some of the sentences were interrupted midway through with a line break. I don’t know if that was just my kindle having a moment).
Sorry, this one was simply not for me!
If you’re after a fantasy series based on the zodiac system, with an intriguing magic system, this book could be for you!
I was intrigued by the premise of this book, where twelve realms based on the zodiac calendar allow people access to magical gifts.
I simply didn’t enjoy this book. I felt like there was too much going on between all of the characters. Adding Stasia’s perspective did more to confuse me than it did to add anything to the plot. There were too many plot points and the entire book felt like it was leading up to something that never really happened. There was no real resolution to the book, because there were too many questions unanswered.
Onto the characters themselves. Stasia was cool, I love her, even though sometimes her perspective felt unnecessary and confusing. Everyone else varied between extremely annoying to mildly annoying. Ria felt like she had no agency and was a pawn in her own story. Airis was annoying, and also his characterisation bored me a little. He was also just so… changeable? Pattern recognition specialists couldn’t track his next move.
My biggest issue with this book boils down to the following:
1. The plot started way too late in the book. The actual trials didn’t start until the 70% mark, and all the world building was so expositional I felt overwhelmed.
2. The formatting was irritating. Every sentence was a new line, which made the actual writing feel repetitive even though it wasn’t. It took away from the rhythm of the words. I know it’s a petty reason to dislike a book, but it genuinely impacted my reading experience (especially when some of the sentences were interrupted midway through with a line break. I don’t know if that was just my kindle having a moment).
Sorry, this one was simply not for me!
If you’re after a fantasy series based on the zodiac system, with an intriguing magic system, this book could be for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
12 magical worlds. Each represents the 1 of the 12 zodiac and also has its own unique magic which goes with the zodiac sign. Its done in an academy setting. Illarana prefers to go by Ria and she has secrets she rather keep then come to light. Most of the book is in Ria point of view. Part way through you read from Anastasias point of view and she prefers to go by stasia.
The FMC Illariana is sarcastic and guards her heart. She believe she was mad with her magic inside herself. But then shes thrown into a world she doesn't understand, and her heart might be at risk.
The MMC Airis seems cold as ice but cares deeply. Hes made to mentor Illariana. He trys to keep her at a distance but slowly that doesn't work anymore. Now all he wants to do is prepare her and protect her.
I really enjoyed the world building. You slowly learn more details about the characters through out the book. I really enjoyed the magic system and how the plant system is. The tension and banter between Ria and Airis I absolutely loved it. Honestly could not put this book down read it in 2 days. I need to find out what happens next.
I received this arc from the author and this is my honest voluntary review
The FMC Illariana is sarcastic and guards her heart. She believe she was mad with her magic inside herself. But then shes thrown into a world she doesn't understand, and her heart might be at risk.
The MMC Airis seems cold as ice but cares deeply. Hes made to mentor Illariana. He trys to keep her at a distance but slowly that doesn't work anymore. Now all he wants to do is prepare her and protect her.
I really enjoyed the world building. You slowly learn more details about the characters through out the book. I really enjoyed the magic system and how the plant system is. The tension and banter between Ria and Airis I absolutely loved it. Honestly could not put this book down read it in 2 days. I need to find out what happens next.
I received this arc from the author and this is my honest voluntary review
October 10, 2026
I’m writing this review after receiving an ARC, and I debated on whether or not to leave a review, as momma always said if you don’t have something nice to say, keep yah damn mouth shut.
But I do NOT get where all these positive reviews have come from. I honestly found it so hard to get through this book simply because of the writing itself.
To be fair, the story isn’t half bad. It’s obviously well thought out, and work was DEFINITELY put into it. But it appeared that an editor, if there was one, was an afterthought, if a thought at all.
I would personally not recommend the book to anyone, simply because the writing was just too full of issues and errors.
I wish the author the best of luck, and I appreciate the opportunity to be an ARC reader.
But I do NOT get where all these positive reviews have come from. I honestly found it so hard to get through this book simply because of the writing itself.
To be fair, the story isn’t half bad. It’s obviously well thought out, and work was DEFINITELY put into it. But it appeared that an editor, if there was one, was an afterthought, if a thought at all.
I would personally not recommend the book to anyone, simply because the writing was just too full of issues and errors.
I wish the author the best of luck, and I appreciate the opportunity to be an ARC reader.
October 4, 2026
There was slight za vibes. I loved the authors unique touch on things to make this read one of a kind. There was dark academia and elemental powers, but the zodiac were each realms! There was also star creatures. Loved Airis and his sarcasm. It made for some good banter as well. Favorite side characters were the spirits and Stasia.The deadly trials and hidden enemies certainly kept things engaging. My only critique ...I would've liked a little more world building on the 12 realms.
September 30, 2026
Very cool story with a very unique magical system. I couldn’t put it down! The world building is in its early stages - same with character development and I cannot wait to see where this story leads. It was enough to get me hooked so thanks for that, Lily Sui! Cannot wait to be as swept up in the rest of the books as I was with this one!
*read as an advanced reader copy*
*read as an advanced reader copy*
September 9, 2026
Very thankful to Lily Siu for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
Noveris is a world built around astrology with unique elemental magic, morally grey monsters, deadly trials, friendships/romance worth fighting for,magic and technology existing side by side.
The moment I started reading it, it hooked me. The world is unique and very refreshing to what we usually get in a romantasy. We get to know a lot about the structure of the world all throughout the book.
A lot of world building, it’s expected since it’s the first book in the series. So we do not get to see as much feelings and thought as we would like from the characters. Either way I love the characters, the romance and friendship between them all. I need that second book like right now😭 I so want to see how their love for each other plays out and for us to see their thoughts and feelings for each other.
Noveris is a world built around astrology with unique elemental magic, morally grey monsters, deadly trials, friendships/romance worth fighting for,magic and technology existing side by side.
The moment I started reading it, it hooked me. The world is unique and very refreshing to what we usually get in a romantasy. We get to know a lot about the structure of the world all throughout the book.
A lot of world building, it’s expected since it’s the first book in the series. So we do not get to see as much feelings and thought as we would like from the characters. Either way I love the characters, the romance and friendship between them all. I need that second book like right now😭 I so want to see how their love for each other plays out and for us to see their thoughts and feelings for each other.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Noveris: Axis of Fire by Lily Siu ultimately delivers on its dark romantasy promises, but getting there requires a fair amount of patience.
I had the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of Noveris: Axis of Fire from Lily Siu.
The first 10 chapters of the book were honestly a struggle to get into as I feel like there wasn't a ton of world building and more "this is what we're doing and you're going to like it" from the characters. It felt off as the main female character Ria is so untrusting and has a rough past. She complains about having to go along with the other characters and start her new life, but shows little physical pushback. I would love to have seen Lily expand on Ria's background and give her a little more life as a character sooner in the book rather than later. A lot of the characters felt like they where just spawned in without any background to them. It makes you feel like you are walking into a conversation that is halfway over with and expected to catch up and also provide your input too. The initial world building also felt sparce without really explaining too much where the characters are or details about the physical academy. You're left to the imagination and filling in the blanks when the characters enter the building in some scenes. It took a long time to properly ground myself in the setting and understand what was fully going on in the big picture of the book.
However, once the story finally finds its footing, the second half picks up significantly.
Stasia was my favorite character: Her character arc kept me anchored to the story even when the shifting perspectives between characters got confusing. She gave more depth to Ria and the other male main characters in the book. She is the kind of girl that you hate when you first meet her and then turns into your ride or die after a couple of drinks together. She would always have your back and she would trust you with hers. She also gained a thorough backstory where the reader can put themselves in her shoes and feel her emotions throughout the book. I'm excited to see where Lily will be taking her story in the next book!
The Tropes: If you stick with it, the slow-burn, forbidden mentor romance and genuine enemies-to-lovers dynamics are well executed. Who doesn't love a one bed trope lol.
The Magic: If you love books like Red Queen and Fourth Wing you'll love the fire elemental magic that Ria masters along with other magic types from other characters. With the looming task of going through the Selection drawing near the closer you get to the end of the book it becomes quite gripping to see if these new recruits have what it takes to survive.
Overall, the strong second half made it a decent setup for the Noveris series, but the clunky pacing and jarring POV shifts in the first 1/5 of the book held it back from being a top-tier read for me.
I had the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of Noveris: Axis of Fire from Lily Siu.
The first 10 chapters of the book were honestly a struggle to get into as I feel like there wasn't a ton of world building and more "this is what we're doing and you're going to like it" from the characters. It felt off as the main female character Ria is so untrusting and has a rough past. She complains about having to go along with the other characters and start her new life, but shows little physical pushback. I would love to have seen Lily expand on Ria's background and give her a little more life as a character sooner in the book rather than later. A lot of the characters felt like they where just spawned in without any background to them. It makes you feel like you are walking into a conversation that is halfway over with and expected to catch up and also provide your input too. The initial world building also felt sparce without really explaining too much where the characters are or details about the physical academy. You're left to the imagination and filling in the blanks when the characters enter the building in some scenes. It took a long time to properly ground myself in the setting and understand what was fully going on in the big picture of the book.
However, once the story finally finds its footing, the second half picks up significantly.
Stasia was my favorite character: Her character arc kept me anchored to the story even when the shifting perspectives between characters got confusing. She gave more depth to Ria and the other male main characters in the book. She is the kind of girl that you hate when you first meet her and then turns into your ride or die after a couple of drinks together. She would always have your back and she would trust you with hers. She also gained a thorough backstory where the reader can put themselves in her shoes and feel her emotions throughout the book. I'm excited to see where Lily will be taking her story in the next book!
The Tropes: If you stick with it, the slow-burn, forbidden mentor romance and genuine enemies-to-lovers dynamics are well executed. Who doesn't love a one bed trope lol.
The Magic: If you love books like Red Queen and Fourth Wing you'll love the fire elemental magic that Ria masters along with other magic types from other characters. With the looming task of going through the Selection drawing near the closer you get to the end of the book it becomes quite gripping to see if these new recruits have what it takes to survive.
Overall, the strong second half made it a decent setup for the Noveris series, but the clunky pacing and jarring POV shifts in the first 1/5 of the book held it back from being a top-tier read for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Welcome to Noveris! I love the concept behind this book, and feel it will be a phenomenal series! Noveris is a universe with twelve realms each representing one of the twelve zodiacs. Each realm comes with its own unique type of magic compatible to its zodiac and what that zodiac stands for. A lot of thought was put into this world and the characters by the other, that much is obvious, and since this is book one of this series, there is a lot of world building and character development, so be prepared for that. It is done in an entertaining way though!
We meet several characters in this book, the FMC, Illariana (Ria), raised in the human realm as a fire mage has always thought there was something wrong with her. Only her closest friends stick by her and help her harness her fire magic when it manifested at a very young age. Her own family was afraid of her, and wanted nothing to do with her.
Then, enter Airis, our MMC one of the strongest twelve from Noveris. Finds our FMC, and brings her to the Istmond Academy where the strongest mages train. Airis harnesses air magic, and becomes Ria's mentor as the only one that can control her fire magic. This blossom into a forbidden attraction.
They all are learning and training to protect their world from Harold Moss who aims to take over and ruin everything they know and love. Harold has put one of his own into Istmond Academy, but know one knows who it is.
Ria finds herself learning she is not weak, there is nothing wrong with her, and that her fire magic is rare and puts her amongst the strongest of the Istmond students. She must learn the world of Noveris and all its realms, learn to control and strengthen her magic, all while never knowing who can and can't be trusted.
There are multiple character POVs, I love the banter between potential love interests in this story (and yes, there is more than one potential couple here). The emotional roller coaster and the back and forth of trust and feeling safe is nail biting! After the high stakes trials of the Selection at the academy, to determine the next strongest mages, more is discovered and the group is left wondering if Harolds minion is a student, or among the leaders of the academy. We will need book two to continue on and learn more.
We meet several characters in this book, the FMC, Illariana (Ria), raised in the human realm as a fire mage has always thought there was something wrong with her. Only her closest friends stick by her and help her harness her fire magic when it manifested at a very young age. Her own family was afraid of her, and wanted nothing to do with her.
Then, enter Airis, our MMC one of the strongest twelve from Noveris. Finds our FMC, and brings her to the Istmond Academy where the strongest mages train. Airis harnesses air magic, and becomes Ria's mentor as the only one that can control her fire magic. This blossom into a forbidden attraction.
They all are learning and training to protect their world from Harold Moss who aims to take over and ruin everything they know and love. Harold has put one of his own into Istmond Academy, but know one knows who it is.
Ria finds herself learning she is not weak, there is nothing wrong with her, and that her fire magic is rare and puts her amongst the strongest of the Istmond students. She must learn the world of Noveris and all its realms, learn to control and strengthen her magic, all while never knowing who can and can't be trusted.
There are multiple character POVs, I love the banter between potential love interests in this story (and yes, there is more than one potential couple here). The emotional roller coaster and the back and forth of trust and feeling safe is nail biting! After the high stakes trials of the Selection at the academy, to determine the next strongest mages, more is discovered and the group is left wondering if Harolds minion is a student, or among the leaders of the academy. We will need book two to continue on and learn more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3,7/5 ⭐
I'm very thankful for this ARC from the author Lily Siu.
I've never read anything by this author and found the blurb really interesting, so I was very happy to recieve an ARC copy of this book.
The writing is very easy to understand and I can recomment this book to people who'd like to get into reading english books as the shorter sentences and structure of the book is very friendly for inexperienced englisch speakers.
The second I started reading this book I immediately got X-Men vibes. Yay! So this is for all the people out there who enjoy fight academies and supernatural powered combat.
It is instantly visible that the author put thought into the world building and backstory of this book. Right from the beginnig we get to know the structures and foundation of the world through the learning process of the heroine and her interactions with the MMC. Even though the world building was so detailed, the way it was delivered didn't give the impression of a infodump.
Because of the huge amount if information we got on the worldbuilding itself though, the internal thoughts and feelings of the characters weren't portrait as deeply as I would have loved. I couldn't connect to the human friends of the FMC at all. I also didn't really get into the banter and tention the FMC and MMC had and I was irritated how fast their relationship and feelings progessed, as the MMC made aware of his feelings not even 20% in. I love slow burn and tention and it just went too fast for me. There are very many of my beloved tropes though, like 'Only One Bed', 'Student x Teacher', and more.
I would have loved for more intimate scenes where the characters got to be vulnerable and understood, this could have taked the connection to a whole new level. I'm hopeful that we get to see more of that in the second book as there definitely needs to be a whole lot of goveling from a certain character given the actions he took in this book.
I'm also curious to see how the story progresses in the second installent and can't wait to read more about this world!
I'm very thankful for this ARC from the author Lily Siu.
I've never read anything by this author and found the blurb really interesting, so I was very happy to recieve an ARC copy of this book.
The writing is very easy to understand and I can recomment this book to people who'd like to get into reading english books as the shorter sentences and structure of the book is very friendly for inexperienced englisch speakers.
The second I started reading this book I immediately got X-Men vibes. Yay! So this is for all the people out there who enjoy fight academies and supernatural powered combat.
It is instantly visible that the author put thought into the world building and backstory of this book. Right from the beginnig we get to know the structures and foundation of the world through the learning process of the heroine and her interactions with the MMC. Even though the world building was so detailed, the way it was delivered didn't give the impression of a infodump.
Because of the huge amount if information we got on the worldbuilding itself though, the internal thoughts and feelings of the characters weren't portrait as deeply as I would have loved. I couldn't connect to the human friends of the FMC at all. I also didn't really get into the banter and tention the FMC and MMC had and I was irritated how fast their relationship and feelings progessed, as the MMC made aware of his feelings not even 20% in. I love slow burn and tention and it just went too fast for me. There are very many of my beloved tropes though, like 'Only One Bed', 'Student x Teacher', and more.
I would have loved for more intimate scenes where the characters got to be vulnerable and understood, this could have taked the connection to a whole new level. I'm hopeful that we get to see more of that in the second book as there definitely needs to be a whole lot of goveling from a certain character given the actions he took in this book.
I'm also curious to see how the story progresses in the second installent and can't wait to read more about this world!
October 1, 2026
Firstly, this was my first ARC so thank you to the author, Lily Siu, for entrusting your book with me.
From the first few pages, I was not convinced that I would like the writing style. The very short sentences had me thrown a little as I felt it was a bit disjointed. However, as I moved through the book, I could see that it worked, as if each character’s POV was speaking to you conversationally. It’s not my favourite writing style but I was used to it by the end.
Now onto the story. Centred around different worlds that tie into our zodiac, our heroine, Ria, is from what we consider our own, modern day Earth. Ria’s elemental power is fire, the novel taking us on her journey of discovering who she is and what it means to have such a power. Ria is thrown into a magical school where she navigates her own distrust of people, discovers her power, all interwoven with her growing feelings towards her mentor, Airis. The school premises reminds me a little of Hogwarts but the similarities to HP end there.
The world in which Ria is pulled into is certainly a change for Romantasy readers, one that is welcomed. Siu’s world building is complex in parts but this is standard when setting up a fantasy series with the intention of many books to come. With so many different worlds that have different powers and connections with the zodiac, I gave up trying to remember them all, just like our heroine!
I am a fan of characterisation, Siu doing a great job at building each character well. I anticipate that this will be more detailed as we move further into the series. I also love dialogue which is often pithy and a joy to read. I did laugh aloud often, particularly with the banter between Ria and Airis.
Axis of Fire is easy to read, has great world building and enough Romantasy tropes to keep you entertained. My pace of reading quickened past halfway to the point I did not want to put it down. Definitely to be put in the TBR list for new readers, and I for one, am looking forward to book 2.
From the first few pages, I was not convinced that I would like the writing style. The very short sentences had me thrown a little as I felt it was a bit disjointed. However, as I moved through the book, I could see that it worked, as if each character’s POV was speaking to you conversationally. It’s not my favourite writing style but I was used to it by the end.
Now onto the story. Centred around different worlds that tie into our zodiac, our heroine, Ria, is from what we consider our own, modern day Earth. Ria’s elemental power is fire, the novel taking us on her journey of discovering who she is and what it means to have such a power. Ria is thrown into a magical school where she navigates her own distrust of people, discovers her power, all interwoven with her growing feelings towards her mentor, Airis. The school premises reminds me a little of Hogwarts but the similarities to HP end there.
The world in which Ria is pulled into is certainly a change for Romantasy readers, one that is welcomed. Siu’s world building is complex in parts but this is standard when setting up a fantasy series with the intention of many books to come. With so many different worlds that have different powers and connections with the zodiac, I gave up trying to remember them all, just like our heroine!
I am a fan of characterisation, Siu doing a great job at building each character well. I anticipate that this will be more detailed as we move further into the series. I also love dialogue which is often pithy and a joy to read. I did laugh aloud often, particularly with the banter between Ria and Airis.
Axis of Fire is easy to read, has great world building and enough Romantasy tropes to keep you entertained. My pace of reading quickened past halfway to the point I did not want to put it down. Definitely to be put in the TBR list for new readers, and I for one, am looking forward to book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the opportunity to receive an ARC from the author, and I’m so happy I got the chance to read this book because…spoiler alert: I LOVED IT! 🤩
I found myself smiling and getting genuinely amused by so many different interactions. I also tried to learn the realms and their order because I felt like I needed to know them…maybe I’d be asked about them later too, haha. 😂
I absolutely loved the three spirits Ria encountered. 🤩 They were adorable and funny, and somehow gave me such a comforting feeling.
I have to admit, once I figured out the connection between the realms and the zodiac signs, I immediately had to find out which realm was connected to Virgo. 😂
I also loved every moment of Airis and Illariana’s relationship evolving! I loved their artistic moment, the way they tried to trust each other, how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable in each other’s presence, and how it helped them understand and connect with one another on a deeper level. It felt so raw, so natural, and so peaceful. I’ve always thought art is one of the best ways to express someone’s feelings and thoughts, and the author did an amazing job using it in the most beautiful way possible, as a bridge that they were building toward each other, together. 🥹
So many things were happening throughout the book, and I loved every moment of it! There was never a moment when I felt bored while reading.
I really hope we get to see more interactions with Aars, Mortz, and Luis in the next book because I found them absolutely hilarious and really enjoyed every scene with them! 😂
Also, I am SO frustrated with Gia. I dislike her on so many levels. I didn’t like her from the very beginning, and now I dislike her even more. 😭
I was really hoping for an extended ending where SOMEONE would finally pay for what she did. But I guess I’ll have to wait for the next book to get that satisfaction. 👀
/I think this is the longest review I've written so far, but I truly loved the book/
I found myself smiling and getting genuinely amused by so many different interactions. I also tried to learn the realms and their order because I felt like I needed to know them…maybe I’d be asked about them later too, haha. 😂
I absolutely loved the three spirits Ria encountered. 🤩 They were adorable and funny, and somehow gave me such a comforting feeling.
I have to admit, once I figured out the connection between the realms and the zodiac signs, I immediately had to find out which realm was connected to Virgo. 😂
I also loved every moment of Airis and Illariana’s relationship evolving! I loved their artistic moment, the way they tried to trust each other, how they allowed themselves to be vulnerable in each other’s presence, and how it helped them understand and connect with one another on a deeper level. It felt so raw, so natural, and so peaceful. I’ve always thought art is one of the best ways to express someone’s feelings and thoughts, and the author did an amazing job using it in the most beautiful way possible, as a bridge that they were building toward each other, together. 🥹
So many things were happening throughout the book, and I loved every moment of it! There was never a moment when I felt bored while reading.
I really hope we get to see more interactions with Aars, Mortz, and Luis in the next book because I found them absolutely hilarious and really enjoyed every scene with them! 😂
Also, I am SO frustrated with Gia. I dislike her on so many levels. I didn’t like her from the very beginning, and now I dislike her even more. 😭
I was really hoping for an extended ending where SOMEONE would finally pay for what she did. But I guess I’ll have to wait for the next book to get that satisfaction. 👀
/I think this is the longest review I've written so far, but I truly loved the book/
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC from Lily Siu.
I really enjoyed the story. The concept is original, and the world is incredibly imaginative. It’s clear that a lot of care and creativity went into world-building. The beginning immediately grabbed my attention, and I was eager to keep reading to discover more about the world and its secrets.
Still, I sometimes felt that world-building took precedence over the characters’ emotions. So much happens in such a short time that I didn’t always get the chance to truly connect with the characters or to fully understand everything. At times, I missed quiet moments where emotions could settle, relationships could grow, and the world could truly come to life instead of just being explained.
For me, those quiet moments would make the story even stronger and more emotionally resonant. The foundation is definitely there, but I would have liked a little more time to get to know the characters better alongside the extraordinary world you’ve created.
All in all, I really enjoyed the story. The world is original, ambitious, and full of possibilities. I’m curious to see which direction the sequel will take. I hope that Part Two gives me a little more time to build an emotional connection with the characters, because that would make the story even more beautiful.
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! I’m looking forward to reading Part Two and following the story further.
I really enjoyed the story. The concept is original, and the world is incredibly imaginative. It’s clear that a lot of care and creativity went into world-building. The beginning immediately grabbed my attention, and I was eager to keep reading to discover more about the world and its secrets.
Still, I sometimes felt that world-building took precedence over the characters’ emotions. So much happens in such a short time that I didn’t always get the chance to truly connect with the characters or to fully understand everything. At times, I missed quiet moments where emotions could settle, relationships could grow, and the world could truly come to life instead of just being explained.
For me, those quiet moments would make the story even stronger and more emotionally resonant. The foundation is definitely there, but I would have liked a little more time to get to know the characters better alongside the extraordinary world you’ve created.
All in all, I really enjoyed the story. The world is original, ambitious, and full of possibilities. I’m curious to see which direction the sequel will take. I hope that Part Two gives me a little more time to build an emotional connection with the characters, because that would make the story even more beautiful.
Thank you for letting me read this ARC! I’m looking forward to reading Part Two and following the story further.
September 26, 2026
To the One Who Dares to Enter Noveris,
Twelve worlds. Twelve forces. Countless stories waiting to be told.
When I first imagined Noveris, I never intended to create just one story. I dreamed of an entire universe filled with magic, secrets, impossible choices, and characters whose destinies would intertwine in ways even they could never imagine.
Axis of Fire is where it all begins.
Illariana and Airis are the first to invite you into this universe, but their story is only one piece of something much greater. Beyond these pages lie other worlds, other heroes, other loves, and secrets that have yet to be discovered.
I wanted to create a universe where nothing is simply black or white. Where even darkness has its reasons, love comes at a price, and every choice has the power to change someone's destiny.
Perhaps one day, when you look back at this book, you'll remember that this was where your journey through Noveris began.
Welcome to the beginning of a universe.
With love,
Lily Siu ❤️
Twelve worlds. Twelve forces. Countless stories waiting to be told.
When I first imagined Noveris, I never intended to create just one story. I dreamed of an entire universe filled with magic, secrets, impossible choices, and characters whose destinies would intertwine in ways even they could never imagine.
Axis of Fire is where it all begins.
Illariana and Airis are the first to invite you into this universe, but their story is only one piece of something much greater. Beyond these pages lie other worlds, other heroes, other loves, and secrets that have yet to be discovered.
I wanted to create a universe where nothing is simply black or white. Where even darkness has its reasons, love comes at a price, and every choice has the power to change someone's destiny.
Perhaps one day, when you look back at this book, you'll remember that this was where your journey through Noveris began.
Welcome to the beginning of a universe.
With love,
Lily Siu ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book! It perfectly blends found family, forced proximity, enemies-to-lovers, and dark academia vibes with a stunning, intricate magic system that had me hooked.
The FMC is such a strong-willed, resilient heroine who’s endured so much pain in her life—especially from the “parents” who were supposed to love her. I was genuinely thrilled to see her finally find her people: her human friends, her chosen family, and her place at the academy.
As for the MMC, I’m completely obsessed with his broody energy. I hated the betrayal he pulled, but I also understood exactly why he did it. I’m rooting hard for her to forgive him and for them to end up together—especially with him having her back through the challenges still ahead at the academy.
While I do wish the first book had a bit more depth and detail in places (I get that it’s setting up the series), it didn’t stop me from becoming completely obsessed. I can’t wait for book two!
The FMC is such a strong-willed, resilient heroine who’s endured so much pain in her life—especially from the “parents” who were supposed to love her. I was genuinely thrilled to see her finally find her people: her human friends, her chosen family, and her place at the academy.
As for the MMC, I’m completely obsessed with his broody energy. I hated the betrayal he pulled, but I also understood exactly why he did it. I’m rooting hard for her to forgive him and for them to end up together—especially with him having her back through the challenges still ahead at the academy.
While I do wish the first book had a bit more depth and detail in places (I get that it’s setting up the series), it didn’t stop me from becoming completely obsessed. I can’t wait for book two!
October 27, 2026
This book had such a great story concept, but the book was just so bad. Probably the worst thing I’ve ever read.
Please notice the only 5 star reviews are from ARC readers… and the author herself. ><
Stilted writing, was the author going for a non rhythmic non rhyming epic poem? I’m not really sure. Probably just KU royalty page padding. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The dialogue is so confusing it’s almost impossible to know who is speaking, dialogue from the same character is on two different lines for some reason.
The FMC was stupid.
“Listen—“ says a character about to explain things to her.
“I don’t want to listen—I want answers” the FMC says stupidly, interrupting the person trying to explain the ‘answers’ to her.
So many POV’s that no one asked for, so the author has to announce ‘lame character POV’ right under the chapter title or in the middle of a chapter.
The romance is lame.
This book is just shockingly bad.
Please notice the only 5 star reviews are from ARC readers… and the author herself. ><
Stilted writing, was the author going for a non rhythmic non rhyming epic poem? I’m not really sure. Probably just KU royalty page padding. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
The dialogue is so confusing it’s almost impossible to know who is speaking, dialogue from the same character is on two different lines for some reason.
The FMC was stupid.
“Listen—“ says a character about to explain things to her.
“I don’t want to listen—I want answers” the FMC says stupidly, interrupting the person trying to explain the ‘answers’ to her.
So many POV’s that no one asked for, so the author has to announce ‘lame character POV’ right under the chapter title or in the middle of a chapter.
The romance is lame.
This book is just shockingly bad.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got ARC copy of this book and DEVOURED it in less than a day, it was so good!!! It moves very fast paced, and was easy to follow along. I thought the FMC was relatable and brave. The MMC and FMC went through a lot of the basic tropes, but for the most part it was all new and refreshing!! The side characters had me enthralled, especially Stasia!! She has so much more depth under the surface, and seeing her develop from the FMC’s perspective was great. The world building wasn’t too confusing, and the school system/competition had its own flare to it which I enjoyed. It ended on such a good note, and I can’t WAIT to see what happens in the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fun book and really cool quite original concept , while the world building was important especially for a first in series I would have liked as much depth to the characters also as at times I didn’t feel much connection to the characters or their own connection , however the story kept me hooked , I am looking forward to the next instalment which I hope will delve a bit deeper into the characters and relationships. Over all a cool read and great author .
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book starts strong and well-written. It features a unique FMC on a journey of self-discovery and has some really interesting world-building. While the instant attraction and banter didn't spark chemistry for me right away, the story does a great job of laying the groundwork for the rest of series to come.
October 25, 2026
jeg syens den var god men jeg vil sige jeg er skuffet
Jeg troede det var en god romantisk bog, men det fyldte 1/10 del af bogen og syens det optrådte lidt mærkeligt og malplaceret i bogen. Savner lidt mere romantik og ikke så meget snak om følelser.
Jeg syens bogen havde en meget meget lang intro og den føles lidt langtrukken.
Jeg troede det var en god romantisk bog, men det fyldte 1/10 del af bogen og syens det optrådte lidt mærkeligt og malplaceret i bogen. Savner lidt mere romantik og ikke så meget snak om følelser.
Jeg syens bogen havde en meget meget lang intro og den føles lidt langtrukken.
Review of advance copy received from Author
could not put this novel down!! I could not get enough of ria and airis and their world. as someone who has not been into fantasy lately, this definitely relit the spark with wonderful storytelling and a world that pulls you in. highly recommend!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firey storyline that I loved with our main characters little side stories with a bit of love, magic, adventure, finding the enemy and all the emotional feels that comes with of course elemental magically gifted characters!
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