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The Thunderborn Heir: A Fae Magic Urban Fantasy Mystery
The Storm Has Only Just Begun
Azaria Hale is not just an ordinary girl but a powerful Fae detective with a sarcastic tongue, a talent for being reckless, and a habit of driving silver blades through the hearts of supernatural creatures. Waiting for her at home is Caesar, her talking cat, whose snarky remarks are often deadlier than the monsters she hunts.
After fifty women and creatures disappeared from the coastal town of Knysna within two weeks without a single scent, trail, or piece of evidence, Azaria was sent undercover as a rookie officer to investigate. She thought her mission would be simple: blend in, find the answers, and try not to punch her infuriatingly arrogant new training officer. But as the investigation deepens, Azaria finds herself pulled into a world of trolls, vampires, creatures, mercenaries, and dangerous secrets. The disappearances are only the beginning. She has always felt it: a presence lurking beneath the surface, a piece of herself she could never name. Now ancient secrets are waking. And they all lead back to her.
Because something is coming.
And it knows exactly who she is.
Packed with supernatural mysteries, dangerous creatures, slow-burn romance, and a kick-ass heroine who refuses to back down, The Thunderborn Heir is perfect for fans of urban fantasy, dragons, and high-stakes adventure.
The story continues in The Thunderborn Chronicles Book Two, currently in development.
Azaria Hale is not just an ordinary girl but a powerful Fae detective with a sarcastic tongue, a talent for being reckless, and a habit of driving silver blades through the hearts of supernatural creatures. Waiting for her at home is Caesar, her talking cat, whose snarky remarks are often deadlier than the monsters she hunts.
After fifty women and creatures disappeared from the coastal town of Knysna within two weeks without a single scent, trail, or piece of evidence, Azaria was sent undercover as a rookie officer to investigate. She thought her mission would be simple: blend in, find the answers, and try not to punch her infuriatingly arrogant new training officer. But as the investigation deepens, Azaria finds herself pulled into a world of trolls, vampires, creatures, mercenaries, and dangerous secrets. The disappearances are only the beginning. She has always felt it: a presence lurking beneath the surface, a piece of herself she could never name. Now ancient secrets are waking. And they all lead back to her.
Because something is coming.
And it knows exactly who she is.
Packed with supernatural mysteries, dangerous creatures, slow-burn romance, and a kick-ass heroine who refuses to back down, The Thunderborn Heir is perfect for fans of urban fantasy, dragons, and high-stakes adventure.
The story continues in The Thunderborn Chronicles Book Two, currently in development.
413 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2026
About the author
Melissa Strydom
3 books20 followersMelissa Strydom is a mom of four (yes, four!) because apparently, balance is her thing. Happily married since 2013 to an incredible husband, an excellent chef who can whip up a good cup of coffee and meal to help her with her writing.
When she’s not wrangling kids or dreaming up wild plot twists, she’s writing clean urban fantasy packed with magic, romance, danger, and just enough chaos to keep you turning pages.
She lives in George, Western Cape, where the ocean is never far and neither is her dream of one day seeing a great white shark and a whale shark up close. Preferably from a safe distance… maybe.
When she’s not wrangling kids or dreaming up wild plot twists, she’s writing clean urban fantasy packed with magic, romance, danger, and just enough chaos to keep you turning pages.
She lives in George, Western Cape, where the ocean is never far and neither is her dream of one day seeing a great white shark and a whale shark up close. Preferably from a safe distance… maybe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
July 25, 2026
Rcvd an ARC from the author.
We meet Cape Town detective Azaria who always seems to find trouble. Just turned 100 and been a cop for many many years she has seen it all. She was raised by humans, left in their doorstep with a note and a kitten named Caesar. She is fae and smtg else but doesn't know. Her captain tasks her to go undercover as a rookie in a neighboring town where females human and supernatural have vanished without any trace. Azaria meets humanoid, captain Magnus who knows the truth and is excited to see what she can do esp with her TO captain Nicholas. It's hard for Azaria to be a rookie esp when she has all the years experience but she likes to rub Nicholas the wrong way and get him to not underestimate her. Azaria holds her own and Nicholas knows for sure she isn't a rookie. Outside sources are working against Azaria. Plus she seems to have an ancient power wake up within her especially with all the storms happening. Drama, deceit, past trauma, new beginnings and finally finding out who you really are makes this a kickass story. Next book please!!
We meet Cape Town detective Azaria who always seems to find trouble. Just turned 100 and been a cop for many many years she has seen it all. She was raised by humans, left in their doorstep with a note and a kitten named Caesar. She is fae and smtg else but doesn't know. Her captain tasks her to go undercover as a rookie in a neighboring town where females human and supernatural have vanished without any trace. Azaria meets humanoid, captain Magnus who knows the truth and is excited to see what she can do esp with her TO captain Nicholas. It's hard for Azaria to be a rookie esp when she has all the years experience but she likes to rub Nicholas the wrong way and get him to not underestimate her. Azaria holds her own and Nicholas knows for sure she isn't a rookie. Outside sources are working against Azaria. Plus she seems to have an ancient power wake up within her especially with all the storms happening. Drama, deceit, past trauma, new beginnings and finally finding out who you really are makes this a kickass story. Next book please!!
June 16, 2026
Review of advanced copy from author.
Thank you so much to Melissa Strydom for the arc of this book! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and can't wait for the next installment.
In a world of fantasy novels where someone "happens" upon magical powers, it was refreshing that our FMC was already fully aware of her fae heritage. It was also a nice change of pace to have this take place in our world and not a totally new one. Melissa does great work in giving the needed details for world building to bring us up to speed. Two centuries ago, the veil between the human world and the supernatural world was ripped open and the worlds united with many creatures now walking amongst humans. Like humans, some are good and some are evil. Detective Azaria (our FMC) lives in South Africa and helps hunt down the bad guys- specializing in the magical/supernatural. She's a total no-nonsense, sarcastic, 100 year-old fae who never physically aged past 21. She has some powers that are refreshing to see in a literary world saturated by more aggressive ones. The most intriguing to me was her calming power - which came in hand several times during her detective cases.
Our MMC, Nikolas, is a giant teddy bear with his own mysterious supernatural lineage that soon comes to light. He's a tough guy in the police field but starts to show this soft, caring side and goodness can he be charming!
Our two main characters start off with a sort of "oil and water" working relationship, but as truths come to light, respect is fully given and more is opened up. In the slowest of slow burns, there IS payoff! I am not a big fan of gratuitous, unnecessary spice, so this closed door, clean love story was very appealing. Plus! There is sooooooooo much room to grow this relationship in the next installments!
The minor characters are just all-around fantastic, but my favorites would be Caesar (who doesn't love a totally sarcastic, random guardian, lazy cat?!), Azaria’s og partner Grayson, and chief Magnus(I mean come on! He has my name!) Seraphina ALMOST has me won over.
Some cons for this story, hence my “only” 4 stars were that sometimes, Azaria's defensiveness of her skills came off way too cocky and I actually wanted someone to knock her down a peg. She could be super assuming of someone's behavior towards her and it came off as immature, not really jiving with the narrative of her being a 100 year old with 80 years on police force. Also, there may seem to be many "creature of the week” moments, but trust me there is a reason for everything!
If you are a fan of fantasy with real-ish world situations and settings, I think you will also enjoy this book like I did!
I still have some un answered questions, but things that are definitely bringing me back for book 2!
Thank you so much to Melissa Strydom for the arc of this book! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and can't wait for the next installment.
In a world of fantasy novels where someone "happens" upon magical powers, it was refreshing that our FMC was already fully aware of her fae heritage. It was also a nice change of pace to have this take place in our world and not a totally new one. Melissa does great work in giving the needed details for world building to bring us up to speed. Two centuries ago, the veil between the human world and the supernatural world was ripped open and the worlds united with many creatures now walking amongst humans. Like humans, some are good and some are evil. Detective Azaria (our FMC) lives in South Africa and helps hunt down the bad guys- specializing in the magical/supernatural. She's a total no-nonsense, sarcastic, 100 year-old fae who never physically aged past 21. She has some powers that are refreshing to see in a literary world saturated by more aggressive ones. The most intriguing to me was her calming power - which came in hand several times during her detective cases.
Our MMC, Nikolas, is a giant teddy bear with his own mysterious supernatural lineage that soon comes to light. He's a tough guy in the police field but starts to show this soft, caring side and goodness can he be charming!
Our two main characters start off with a sort of "oil and water" working relationship, but as truths come to light, respect is fully given and more is opened up. In the slowest of slow burns, there IS payoff! I am not a big fan of gratuitous, unnecessary spice, so this closed door, clean love story was very appealing. Plus! There is sooooooooo much room to grow this relationship in the next installments!
The minor characters are just all-around fantastic, but my favorites would be Caesar (who doesn't love a totally sarcastic, random guardian, lazy cat?!), Azaria’s og partner Grayson, and chief Magnus(I mean come on! He has my name!) Seraphina ALMOST has me won over.
Some cons for this story, hence my “only” 4 stars were that sometimes, Azaria's defensiveness of her skills came off way too cocky and I actually wanted someone to knock her down a peg. She could be super assuming of someone's behavior towards her and it came off as immature, not really jiving with the narrative of her being a 100 year old with 80 years on police force. Also, there may seem to be many "creature of the week” moments, but trust me there is a reason for everything!
If you are a fan of fantasy with real-ish world situations and settings, I think you will also enjoy this book like I did!
I still have some un answered questions, but things that are definitely bringing me back for book 2!
July 1, 2026
Als je houdt van meeslepende Epic Fantasy met een flinke dosis magie, politieke intriges en personages die dieper gaan dan de standaard archetypen, dan is The Thunderborn Heir van Melissa Strydom een absolute aanrader. Strydom zet hiermee een krachtig debuut neer dat smaakt naar meer.
Het Verhaal in een Notendop
Het boek neemt ons mee naar een wereld die verscheurd wordt door oude vetes en de constante dreiging van machtige elementaire krachten. In het centrum van dit alles staat de protagonist, die plotseling geconfronteerd wordt met een erfenis die zowel een zegen als een dodelijke vloek is: de kracht van de donder. Terwijl er aan het hof complotten worden gesmeed en de vijand aan de poorten rammelt, moet de hoofdpersoon niet alleen leren omgaan met deze immense, onvoorspelbare magie, maar ook ontdekken wie er nog te vertrouwen is.
De Pluspunten
Sterke World-Building: Strydom heeft duidelijk veel tijd gestoken in het bouwen van haar wereld. De lore voelt rijk en gelaagd aan. De manier waarop magie (en specifiek de 'Thunderborn'-krachten) is geïntegreerd in de cultuur en politiek is geloofwaardig en fascinerend.
Complexe Personages: Geen zwart-wit moraal hier. De personages maken fouten, hebben verborgen agenda’s en groeien gedurende het verhaal. Vooral de dynamiek tussen de hoofdpersoon en de bondgenoten (of zijn het vijanden?) houdt je constant aan het gissen.
Vlotte Schrijfstijl: De actiescènes zijn filmisch en energiek geschreven. Je voelt de bliksem bijna knetteren op de pagina's. Daarnaast weet Strydom de emotionele lading tussen de personages goed over te brengen zonder dat het melodramatisch wordt.
Een Klein Minpuntje
Het tempo ligt in het begin van het boek behoorlijk hoog. Omdat er veel unieke termen, koninkrijken en magische regels worden geïntroduceerd, kan het de eerste paar hoofdstukken even duren voordat je je draai vindt. Maar zodra de basis staat, raast het verhaal in één ruk door naar de ontknoping.
Eindoordeel
The Thunderborn Heir is een stormachtig goed begin van een veelbelovende fantasy-reeks. Melissa Strydom bewijst dat ze een talent heeft voor het balanceren van grootse, epische gevechten met intieme, karaktergedreven momenten.
Voor de liefhebbers van: Brandon Sanderson, Sarah J. Maas (voor de politieke spanning) en klassieke high-fantasy met een moderne twist.
Het Verhaal in een Notendop
Het boek neemt ons mee naar een wereld die verscheurd wordt door oude vetes en de constante dreiging van machtige elementaire krachten. In het centrum van dit alles staat de protagonist, die plotseling geconfronteerd wordt met een erfenis die zowel een zegen als een dodelijke vloek is: de kracht van de donder. Terwijl er aan het hof complotten worden gesmeed en de vijand aan de poorten rammelt, moet de hoofdpersoon niet alleen leren omgaan met deze immense, onvoorspelbare magie, maar ook ontdekken wie er nog te vertrouwen is.
De Pluspunten
Sterke World-Building: Strydom heeft duidelijk veel tijd gestoken in het bouwen van haar wereld. De lore voelt rijk en gelaagd aan. De manier waarop magie (en specifiek de 'Thunderborn'-krachten) is geïntegreerd in de cultuur en politiek is geloofwaardig en fascinerend.
Complexe Personages: Geen zwart-wit moraal hier. De personages maken fouten, hebben verborgen agenda’s en groeien gedurende het verhaal. Vooral de dynamiek tussen de hoofdpersoon en de bondgenoten (of zijn het vijanden?) houdt je constant aan het gissen.
Vlotte Schrijfstijl: De actiescènes zijn filmisch en energiek geschreven. Je voelt de bliksem bijna knetteren op de pagina's. Daarnaast weet Strydom de emotionele lading tussen de personages goed over te brengen zonder dat het melodramatisch wordt.
Een Klein Minpuntje
Het tempo ligt in het begin van het boek behoorlijk hoog. Omdat er veel unieke termen, koninkrijken en magische regels worden geïntroduceerd, kan het de eerste paar hoofdstukken even duren voordat je je draai vindt. Maar zodra de basis staat, raast het verhaal in één ruk door naar de ontknoping.
Eindoordeel
The Thunderborn Heir is een stormachtig goed begin van een veelbelovende fantasy-reeks. Melissa Strydom bewijst dat ze een talent heeft voor het balanceren van grootse, epische gevechten met intieme, karaktergedreven momenten.
Voor de liefhebbers van: Brandon Sanderson, Sarah J. Maas (voor de politieke spanning) en klassieke high-fantasy met een moderne twist.
July 29, 2026
I really enjoyed this book and thought it was a great start to what I hope becomes an amazing series. From the first few chapters, it throws you right into the action without feeling overwhelming. There is always something happening, whether it's solving a case, fighting supernatural creatures, or uncovering another piece of the mystery.
Azaria was easily my favorite part of the book. She's strong, sarcastic, fearless, and never backs down from a fight. I also liked that she's more than just a tough character. Deep down she's a genuinely good person who wants to protect others, even if it means putting herself in danger.
The world-building was done really well. There are fae, vampires, trolls, and other supernatural creatures, but I never felt lost or overloaded with information. Everything was introduced naturally as the story moved along, making it easy to follow while still leaving plenty of mystery to keep me hooked.
I also enjoyed the chemistry between Azaria and Nikolas. Their personalities clash in the best way, and the banter made me smile more than once. I'm excited to see where their relationship goes in the next book because it feels like there's still so much left to explore.
The mystery itself kept me turning the pages. With women disappearing and danger lurking around every corner, I was constantly trying to guess who was behind everything. Just when I thought I had the answers, another twist came along. The ending left me with plenty of questions and definitely made me want to pick up the next book.
Overall, I thought this was a well-written story with great pacing, memorable characters, and an interesting paranormal world. If you enjoy urban fantasy with mystery, action, supernatural creatures, and a strong female lead who isn't afraid to stand her ground, I definitely recommend giving this one a chance. I'll definitely be reading the next book to see what happens next.
Azaria was easily my favorite part of the book. She's strong, sarcastic, fearless, and never backs down from a fight. I also liked that she's more than just a tough character. Deep down she's a genuinely good person who wants to protect others, even if it means putting herself in danger.
The world-building was done really well. There are fae, vampires, trolls, and other supernatural creatures, but I never felt lost or overloaded with information. Everything was introduced naturally as the story moved along, making it easy to follow while still leaving plenty of mystery to keep me hooked.
I also enjoyed the chemistry between Azaria and Nikolas. Their personalities clash in the best way, and the banter made me smile more than once. I'm excited to see where their relationship goes in the next book because it feels like there's still so much left to explore.
The mystery itself kept me turning the pages. With women disappearing and danger lurking around every corner, I was constantly trying to guess who was behind everything. Just when I thought I had the answers, another twist came along. The ending left me with plenty of questions and definitely made me want to pick up the next book.
Overall, I thought this was a well-written story with great pacing, memorable characters, and an interesting paranormal world. If you enjoy urban fantasy with mystery, action, supernatural creatures, and a strong female lead who isn't afraid to stand her ground, I definitely recommend giving this one a chance. I'll definitely be reading the next book to see what happens next.
July 3, 2026
What a fantastic read!
Thunderborn Heir completely swept me away, and I devoured it in a single sitting because I simply couldn't stop reading.
One of my favourite things about this book was the world-building. It reminded me of the urban fantasy novels by Keri Arthur, with its incredible mix of magical creatures and supernatural beings all existing side by side. Every page introduced something new, making the world feel alive, expansive, and full of adventure.
I absolutely adored the heroine. She was witty, determined, and someone I genuinely enjoyed following. Her friendships - both with her human companions and non human companions- were some of my favourite parts of the story.
The banter, teamwork, and growing relationships felt authentic.
While I figured out one of the major reveals fairly early on, it was obvious enough that it didn't feel like it was meant to be a huge surprise. More importantly, there are still so many unanswered questions and larger mysteries that kept me completely invested in the story.
The ending leaves just enough of a cliffhanger to make you desperate for the next book without feeling incomplete. It left me excited rather than frustrated, and I can't wait to continue the series. This was my first book by this author, but it certainly won't be my last.
Thunderborn Heir completely swept me away, and I devoured it in a single sitting because I simply couldn't stop reading.
One of my favourite things about this book was the world-building. It reminded me of the urban fantasy novels by Keri Arthur, with its incredible mix of magical creatures and supernatural beings all existing side by side. Every page introduced something new, making the world feel alive, expansive, and full of adventure.
I absolutely adored the heroine. She was witty, determined, and someone I genuinely enjoyed following. Her friendships - both with her human companions and non human companions- were some of my favourite parts of the story.
The banter, teamwork, and growing relationships felt authentic.
While I figured out one of the major reveals fairly early on, it was obvious enough that it didn't feel like it was meant to be a huge surprise. More importantly, there are still so many unanswered questions and larger mysteries that kept me completely invested in the story.
The ending leaves just enough of a cliffhanger to make you desperate for the next book without feeling incomplete. It left me excited rather than frustrated, and I can't wait to continue the series. This was my first book by this author, but it certainly won't be my last.
June 17, 2026
Action from Start to Finish
We are thrown into a world where paranormals are not so secret and crime is high. This book is fast paced and all action right from the beginning.
Although the crime was heavy the biggest one, was due to many secrets and a vendetta decades old.
Azaria was a strong female lead. I enjoyed her snarkiness and it was not over done, which is a plus. Nikolas was difficult to begin with but not a huge alpha douche. Once he was put in his place a couple of times and let into the club he became more likeable. Which also made the chemistry between the two pick up some. It was beginning to bud and I hope to see more of it in the next book and ins't forced.
As for the storyline, it was very interesting and I did not feel lost due to the fact that characteristics were explained as the story progressed in a smoothly integrated way. While some parts were predictable, they still presented the aha moment. A lot of bombshells were dropped towards the end of the book with some being answered and others leaving you hanging. With that being said I will be (im)patiently waiting for book two and all the new adventures to come!
We are thrown into a world where paranormals are not so secret and crime is high. This book is fast paced and all action right from the beginning.
Although the crime was heavy the biggest one, was due to many secrets and a vendetta decades old.
Azaria was a strong female lead. I enjoyed her snarkiness and it was not over done, which is a plus. Nikolas was difficult to begin with but not a huge alpha douche. Once he was put in his place a couple of times and let into the club he became more likeable. Which also made the chemistry between the two pick up some. It was beginning to bud and I hope to see more of it in the next book and ins't forced.
As for the storyline, it was very interesting and I did not feel lost due to the fact that characteristics were explained as the story progressed in a smoothly integrated way. While some parts were predictable, they still presented the aha moment. A lot of bombshells were dropped towards the end of the book with some being answered and others leaving you hanging. With that being said I will be (im)patiently waiting for book two and all the new adventures to come!
July 28, 2026
Thank you Melissa for the arc, this was such a refreshing twist on fantasy meets modern real world, i loved the real places mentioned around my town in South Africa. The characters were fleshed out and so much more awaits to be uncovered from so many of them that i can not wait to read the second book, i simply could not put this book down, the fast pace of the story, the missions and detective work thats been done, i cant wait to see more in depth detective work and finding out more about the MFC's past and how it will affect her future, what will the road have in store for the MMC and what he has just learned about his past and how the FMC ties into it as well. I want more background on Azaria's cat, what he is and more about them.
This book fills in many questions but also arizes so many more that needs to be answered and i can not wait to dig in deeper.
For a new Author Melissa Strydom is doing so well, iv read some of her other work which i enjoyed but this book and what seems to be a series is so far her best work and i cant wait to see her improve and let go more and push her boundries. Keep up the good work and im waiting anxiously for more.
This book fills in many questions but also arizes so many more that needs to be answered and i can not wait to dig in deeper.
For a new Author Melissa Strydom is doing so well, iv read some of her other work which i enjoyed but this book and what seems to be a series is so far her best work and i cant wait to see her improve and let go more and push her boundries. Keep up the good work and im waiting anxiously for more.
July 28, 2026
Review of an ARC kindly provided by the author.
This was an enjoyable read with an interesting premise and plenty happening throughout the fast-paced story. I really enjoyed the mix of police procedural and supernatural fantasy, as it's not a combination I've come across very often. It gave the story a unique feel and kept me wanting to find out what would happen next.
I do think the story could have benefited from slowing down a little at times. There were lots of ideas introduced, and I would have loved more world-building and character development to really immerse myself in the setting. I also noticed a few typos and editing issues, which occasionally pulled me out of the story, although these may well have already been picked up in later edits.
All things considered, it's an impressive start to a series, and there's a lot of potential here. I'm looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book.
This was an enjoyable read with an interesting premise and plenty happening throughout the fast-paced story. I really enjoyed the mix of police procedural and supernatural fantasy, as it's not a combination I've come across very often. It gave the story a unique feel and kept me wanting to find out what would happen next.
I do think the story could have benefited from slowing down a little at times. There were lots of ideas introduced, and I would have loved more world-building and character development to really immerse myself in the setting. I also noticed a few typos and editing issues, which occasionally pulled me out of the story, although these may well have already been picked up in later edits.
All things considered, it's an impressive start to a series, and there's a lot of potential here. I'm looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book.
July 9, 2026
If you love great characters that are put in unique situations dealing with Trolls, Elves, Shifters, Shades, Incubus, and Jestlings to name a few. This is your book! You not only get fantasy, magical creatures, detectives trying to solve mysteries and a crazy world that all co-exist.
Just some of the characters you get are a fiery detective, Azaria who is not one to take orders or afraid. She is the first to break them, kinda goes along with Fae.
Nikola is a hot head, arrogant detective from another small town with lots of sudden disappearances he is trying to solve. Unfortunately things are not quite working out. Oh and did I mention he is HOT.
This book is absolutely never ending with twists and turns and shocking revelations you won’t see coming.
Book Two can’t get here soon enough! I can’t wait to get this book into the hands of my book friends. They will devour it like me.
Just some of the characters you get are a fiery detective, Azaria who is not one to take orders or afraid. She is the first to break them, kinda goes along with Fae.
Nikola is a hot head, arrogant detective from another small town with lots of sudden disappearances he is trying to solve. Unfortunately things are not quite working out. Oh and did I mention he is HOT.
This book is absolutely never ending with twists and turns and shocking revelations you won’t see coming.
Book Two can’t get here soon enough! I can’t wait to get this book into the hands of my book friends. They will devour it like me.
June 24, 2026
Good afternoon dear readers, I was able to get an ARC for this book and was so excited to read!!!
If you are looking for a sassy detective who takes no shit please meet Azaria Hale! Part Fae she has been working as a detective for decades but when young women start going missing she is called onto the case as an undercover rookie.
Meet T.O Nikolas who is the lucky one that has to work with the miss attitude. Nikolas is a harden detective with a dark past but when things get crazy he is always reliable for the job.
Together the two must figure out what is going on through multiple cases and a whole arrangement of interesting characters!
Now I hear you asking, was it good?! I loved it and can’t wait for more from the upcoming author!
If you are looking for a sassy detective who takes no shit please meet Azaria Hale! Part Fae she has been working as a detective for decades but when young women start going missing she is called onto the case as an undercover rookie.
Meet T.O Nikolas who is the lucky one that has to work with the miss attitude. Nikolas is a harden detective with a dark past but when things get crazy he is always reliable for the job.
Together the two must figure out what is going on through multiple cases and a whole arrangement of interesting characters!
Now I hear you asking, was it good?! I loved it and can’t wait for more from the upcoming author!
July 25, 2026
A fae detective? A world where magical beings and humans coexist? Sign me up.
This story pulled me in with its blend of mystery, magic, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. I loved following the investigation as new questions kept appearing around every corner. The MMC was equal parts intriguing and infuriating, which made every interaction that much more entertaining. As truths slowly come to light, the stakes continue to rise, leaving me desperate to know what happens next.
If you enjoy supernatural mysteries, hidden secrets, magical beings, and characters that keep you guessing, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. Just be warned: it ends on a cliffhanger that left me staring at my Kindle, wondering how I'm supposed to patiently wait for the next book.
This story pulled me in with its blend of mystery, magic, and secrets waiting to be uncovered. I loved following the investigation as new questions kept appearing around every corner. The MMC was equal parts intriguing and infuriating, which made every interaction that much more entertaining. As truths slowly come to light, the stakes continue to rise, leaving me desperate to know what happens next.
If you enjoy supernatural mysteries, hidden secrets, magical beings, and characters that keep you guessing, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. Just be warned: it ends on a cliffhanger that left me staring at my Kindle, wondering how I'm supposed to patiently wait for the next book.
July 28, 2026
First of all thank you to the author, Melissa for sending me this book. I enjoyed this book.
I thought this was a typical Fantasy book. I was surprised how fast paced this was. I started this book at 10pm yesterday and stopped reading at 3AM co I have work at 9AM. I was not able to put it down as the story is already on its climax. I quite guessed that the FMC and MMC are both dragons. probably mates but it should be confirmed on the next book. I just wish there are more scenes for both the FMC and MMC where they get sweet with each other. The author dropped a bomb and there are too many loose ends in this book.
Anyway... I cant wait for Book 2!!!
I thought this was a typical Fantasy book. I was surprised how fast paced this was. I started this book at 10pm yesterday and stopped reading at 3AM co I have work at 9AM. I was not able to put it down as the story is already on its climax. I quite guessed that the FMC and MMC are both dragons. probably mates but it should be confirmed on the next book. I just wish there are more scenes for both the FMC and MMC where they get sweet with each other. The author dropped a bomb and there are too many loose ends in this book.
Anyway... I cant wait for Book 2!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 25, 2026
The Thunderborn Heir was such a fun surprise. Melissa Strydom delivers a fantasy filled with rich world-building, intriguing magic, and characters I quickly became invested in. The story takes its time setting everything up, but every twist and revelation makes the journey worth it. I loved watching the protagonist grow into their destiny, and the ending left me excited for what’s next. If you enjoy epic fantasy with hidden legacies, political intrigue, and plenty of heart, this is definitely one to pick up.
June 15, 2026
Review of ARC copy received from Author
It been a while since I haven’t wanted to put a book down.
I loved this book so much.
Azaria is sassy powerful Fae detective that goes undercover as a rookie to help solve a case where humans are disappearing without a trace.
This is a fast paced book with lots of action and a bit of light comedy.
Great banter between the mmc and the fmc.
Can’t wait for the next book.
It been a while since I haven’t wanted to put a book down.
I loved this book so much.
Azaria is sassy powerful Fae detective that goes undercover as a rookie to help solve a case where humans are disappearing without a trace.
This is a fast paced book with lots of action and a bit of light comedy.
Great banter between the mmc and the fmc.
Can’t wait for the next book.
July 14, 2026
This was such a great read, that i actually have the paperback sitting on my shelves now. Azaria was amazing. She was smart, sarcastic, witty, and you just couldn't help but love her. She was a firecracker. And the different characters were awesome. I loved that there were so many. It built such an awesome world. This was captivating and had me totally invested. I loved the action and suspense. The banter and the humor. It was definitely a book worth reading.
July 25, 2026
This was an ARC, that was a dangerously delicious read! It’s about a strong FMC bad ass that could hold her own and refused to back down or take shit from anyone; who teams up with her new partner to solve a mysterious crime. Which in turn uncovers some secret truths about what she is and her past. A thrilling action packed read with mythical creatures, plot twists, love interests and more. Cannot wait for book 2.
July 27, 2026
For me it was a bit of a slow start but the characters develop nicely the further into the book you get. I liked the way the supernatural characters were introduced and once Azaria gets her special assignment the pace increases dramatically and I enjoyed it much more from that point on. I am now intrigued for book two so looking forward to reading that when it comes out.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book ahead of its official release.
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book ahead of its official release.
July 22, 2026
I loved this book, the amazing badass fmc that you get to follow on her story while she gets to figure out what she is. The writing is funny and so easy to follow. It’s set in a modern world but with creatures from popular mythologies.
I loved the world we get to be in and I can’t wait to read book 2
The end was so good and I could not stop reading the last 100 pages
I loved the world we get to be in and I can’t wait to read book 2
The end was so good and I could not stop reading the last 100 pages
June 30, 2026
What a refreshing and new take on the merging of magical and non magical worlds. The system is well thought out and the characters are so unique and relatable. I highly recommend this book and I am eagerly awaiting the next one because I just have to know what happens next!
August 5, 2026
*I received this ARC from the author for my honest review. Thank you Melissa for the opportunity to read this gem!*
This was a surprisingly captivating book! I’ve read a few fantasy books and this hooked me from the beginning!
The whole time I was trying to figure out what Azaria was! I thought she was some powerful Queen Elemental and boy was i wrong. I loved how she was a strong lead, and really enjoyed the fight scenes with vampires and trolls.
Nikolas was an interesting character. I tried to peg him the whole time too. Does he hate Azaria? Does he like her? Will they, won’t they? It was fun.
The swearing wasn't quite to my personal taste (words like ‘sh*t, and p*ssed’), so I ended up taking off one star. I also felt that some of the language was used a bit more often than necessary.
Overall engaging and great read! Excited for the next book.
This was a surprisingly captivating book! I’ve read a few fantasy books and this hooked me from the beginning!
The whole time I was trying to figure out what Azaria was! I thought she was some powerful Queen Elemental and boy was i wrong. I loved how she was a strong lead, and really enjoyed the fight scenes with vampires and trolls.
Nikolas was an interesting character. I tried to peg him the whole time too. Does he hate Azaria? Does he like her? Will they, won’t they? It was fun.
The swearing wasn't quite to my personal taste (words like ‘sh*t, and p*ssed’), so I ended up taking off one star. I also felt that some of the language was used a bit more often than necessary.
Overall engaging and great read! Excited for the next book.
July 29, 2026
This book is an exceptionally good book, it was hard to put it down. The book has you grabed from the beginning to the end! Can't wait for the second book! The characters are so riveting, when reading it feels like you are right there with them.
June 15, 2026
Great description of characters Brings a new take to the paranormal world for me and I can’t wait for the second book!
June 20, 2026
I absolutely love this book. I couldn’t put it down.
I can’t wait for the next one to come out. 😍
highly recommend
I can’t wait for the next one to come out. 😍
highly recommend
June 24, 2026
Wow
I have finished this in one setting.
I enjoyed it so much it kept my attention.
Love it can't wait for the next book!
Also love the fact that is playing off in South Africa.
I have finished this in one setting.
I enjoyed it so much it kept my attention.
Love it can't wait for the next book!
Also love the fact that is playing off in South Africa.
July 25, 2026
Loved it.
June 26, 2026
Fast paced action packed story.
The story line and plot were really good. The story keeps you interested with the constant change and sequence of events moving throughout the book. Absolutely Loved the FMC and her name Azaria. Such a kick ass character. Loved her bravado. Overall I'm excited for book Two and I NEED the second one.
The story line and plot were really good. The story keeps you interested with the constant change and sequence of events moving throughout the book. Absolutely Loved the FMC and her name Azaria. Such a kick ass character. Loved her bravado. Overall I'm excited for book Two and I NEED the second one.
June 22, 2026
Great book! Action packed, and keeps you guessing at every turn. I do wish our 2 man characters shared more than a kiss, the tension is definitely there, it just needs to be released!
July 17, 2026
The Thunderborn Heir is an action-packed journey of self-discovery that keeps you hooked once it finds its stride. While it takes a little time to get going, the fast-paced plot makes it an enjoyable read.
The FMC is the absolute heart of this book. Despite having faced significant hardships in her past, she remains incredibly compassionate and kind. She doesn't let her past define her, instead she spends the story trying to prove herself to those around her and she definitely doesn’t respond well to her colleagues telling her what to do! Azaria is bold, tough and definitely not a push-over.
The MMC is a tough nut to crack. He starts off angry, bossy, and dominant. Because of this, it took a while for his character to grow on me, though he did eventually get there. I will be interested to see how his character develops in future books.
The book gets off to a slightly bumpy start, leaning heavily on one-liners. However, once the story gets going and the main detective storyline kicks in, it becomes a much smoother, gripping read. Could the book have benefited if the author had bypassed the intro chapters and jumped straight into the core storyline from the very beginning? Overall, If you enjoy an action-heavy plot, and a resilient, independent heroine, The Thunderborn Heir is well worth reading.
The FMC is the absolute heart of this book. Despite having faced significant hardships in her past, she remains incredibly compassionate and kind. She doesn't let her past define her, instead she spends the story trying to prove herself to those around her and she definitely doesn’t respond well to her colleagues telling her what to do! Azaria is bold, tough and definitely not a push-over.
The MMC is a tough nut to crack. He starts off angry, bossy, and dominant. Because of this, it took a while for his character to grow on me, though he did eventually get there. I will be interested to see how his character develops in future books.
The book gets off to a slightly bumpy start, leaning heavily on one-liners. However, once the story gets going and the main detective storyline kicks in, it becomes a much smoother, gripping read. Could the book have benefited if the author had bypassed the intro chapters and jumped straight into the core storyline from the very beginning? Overall, If you enjoy an action-heavy plot, and a resilient, independent heroine, The Thunderborn Heir is well worth reading.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received and read an ARC from the author, Melissa Strydom!
Okay, this is my first ever review that I'm gonna publish, so don't come at me haha.
I really liked the book, it kept me invested in the story and I was reading while being at work hehe. Azaria is a total badas* and the banter between her and Nikolas was sooo good. I kept giggling and laughing out loud a lot trough this book. It is not my roman empire like ToG or ZA, however it was good and I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series. I loved Caesar, he's so sassy.
I had some small issues with the story being narrated in past tense even though it was happening in the present. Aside from that, i have no complaints because I normally read indie authors as well as trad.
SPOILERS!!
I saw it coming that she was the lost thunder dragon heir a couple of chapters before it was revealed but it still was great. Nikolas and Azaria are mates, right!??? Right!???? Half fae - half dragon is wild haha. It reminds me of the FMC from Of Dragons and Fae by Jasmine Walt. I also loved the scene where Azaria and Magnus revealed to Nikolas the truth, it was so hilarious that the big, badas* captain would be so petty lol.
Okay, this is my first ever review that I'm gonna publish, so don't come at me haha.
I really liked the book, it kept me invested in the story and I was reading while being at work hehe. Azaria is a total badas* and the banter between her and Nikolas was sooo good. I kept giggling and laughing out loud a lot trough this book. It is not my roman empire like ToG or ZA, however it was good and I'll definitely be reading the rest of the series. I loved Caesar, he's so sassy.
I had some small issues with the story being narrated in past tense even though it was happening in the present. Aside from that, i have no complaints because I normally read indie authors as well as trad.
SPOILERS!!
I saw it coming that she was the lost thunder dragon heir a couple of chapters before it was revealed but it still was great. Nikolas and Azaria are mates, right!??? Right!???? Half fae - half dragon is wild haha. It reminds me of the FMC from Of Dragons and Fae by Jasmine Walt. I also loved the scene where Azaria and Magnus revealed to Nikolas the truth, it was so hilarious that the big, badas* captain would be so petty lol.
June 17, 2026
This book throws you straight into the action and barely gives you a chance to catch your breath. The world is one where paranormals are out in the open, crime is everywhere, and long-buried secrets have a way of coming back to cause trouble.
I really liked Azaria. She's strong, capable, and has just the right amount of sass without it feeling overdone. Nikolas took me a little longer to warm up to, but thankfully he never crossed into the overbearing alpha territory. As the story progressed and his walls started coming down, I found myself enjoying his dynamic with Azaria a lot more. The chemistry is definitely there, but it's still developing, which I appreciated.
One thing I thought the author handled well was the worldbuilding. Information about the different paranormal elements was woven naturally into the story, so I never felt overwhelmed or lost. While I guessed a few of the twists ahead of time, there were still plenty of reveals that kept me invested.
The ending drops several big surprises, answers some questions, and leaves plenty more hanging. Needless to say, I'll be eagerly waiting to see where the story goes next.
I really liked Azaria. She's strong, capable, and has just the right amount of sass without it feeling overdone. Nikolas took me a little longer to warm up to, but thankfully he never crossed into the overbearing alpha territory. As the story progressed and his walls started coming down, I found myself enjoying his dynamic with Azaria a lot more. The chemistry is definitely there, but it's still developing, which I appreciated.
One thing I thought the author handled well was the worldbuilding. Information about the different paranormal elements was woven naturally into the story, so I never felt overwhelmed or lost. While I guessed a few of the twists ahead of time, there were still plenty of reveals that kept me invested.
The ending drops several big surprises, answers some questions, and leaves plenty more hanging. Needless to say, I'll be eagerly waiting to see where the story goes next.
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