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Under the Mountain
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 21, 2026
“…we only get this one chance—this one life—to live out the Almighty’s will…even if I were to fall, I wouldn’t fail because I’d be doing what He asked of me.”
Under the Mountain is a dark Christian fantasy romance interlaced with themes of grace, growth, forgiveness, mercy, bravery, and faith. With subtle yet powerful nods to the Book of Judges, readers will find both inspiration and encouragement rooting for the princess who became queen after tragedy and the general oathbound to protect her and the crumbling kingdom—can they both overcome their pasts enough to trust each other with their wounds? Readers will be turning the page, not only during the high stakes action, but in the in-between moments where two broken hearts might just heal as one.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! Though I received an early copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving a review of my own volition.
Under the Mountain is a dark Christian fantasy romance interlaced with themes of grace, growth, forgiveness, mercy, bravery, and faith. With subtle yet powerful nods to the Book of Judges, readers will find both inspiration and encouragement rooting for the princess who became queen after tragedy and the general oathbound to protect her and the crumbling kingdom—can they both overcome their pasts enough to trust each other with their wounds? Readers will be turning the page, not only during the high stakes action, but in the in-between moments where two broken hearts might just heal as one.
Thank you to the author for the ARC! Though I received an early copy, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving a review of my own volition.
August 31, 2026
I enjoyed this book. First off, I really appreciated it being a clean fantasy! There is definitely a clear good vs evil fight and while never directly naming GOD, the book often references The Almighty as the maker of the humans and the god to whom they pray.
This is the first book of the series, but it can be read on its own. Subsequent books focus on different couples and therefore this one felt completed.
***Recommendation and cautionary content: I would recommend this book for teens and older. It was violent, including a torture scene, It was also a romance. While nothing explicit, there was reference to rape, domestic violence, and s3x. There was also nudity in bathing and in bed after marriage.
This is the first book of the series, but it can be read on its own. Subsequent books focus on different couples and therefore this one felt completed.
***Recommendation and cautionary content: I would recommend this book for teens and older. It was violent, including a torture scene, It was also a romance. While nothing explicit, there was reference to rape, domestic violence, and s3x. There was also nudity in bathing and in bed after marriage.
August 10, 2026
ARC Review: I knew I was going to love this from the moment I sobbed in the first couple of chapters. I was aware going in that this was going to be dark however I didn’t realize how dark and how quickly. I was gripped immediately. Our lovely author knows how to write in a way that makes you immediately fall in love with the characters and root for them from beginning to end. I can’t even begin to tell you what my favorite part was because the entire thing was a masterpiece. From the strong faith the characters had (even if it wavered) to the bonds they formed, to the romance and camaraderie, and finally the light vs darkness battle going on. Alsoooooo🤭 let my fan girl over the elites 🥰 I want one NAY need one😊 gimme gimme gimme🤗 literally all of them were amazing and I hope to be seeing more of them lol. I won’t say they made the book because they didn’t but they definitely were fun and honestly great men
August 15, 2026
ARC Review
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book, and I absolutely loved it! I loved that it didn’t shy away from darker themes just because it’s a Christian fantasy. The struggles felt raw, messy, and incredibly human, while faith and hope were beautifully woven throughout. And the romance? Absolute chef’s kiss! The balance of darkness, faith, hope, and romance made this such a great read!
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book, and I absolutely loved it! I loved that it didn’t shy away from darker themes just because it’s a Christian fantasy. The struggles felt raw, messy, and incredibly human, while faith and hope were beautifully woven throughout. And the romance? Absolute chef’s kiss! The balance of darkness, faith, hope, and romance made this such a great read!
August 9, 2026
This was such a good read. A fantasy romance with Christian themes that doesn’t shy away from difficult topics is exactly what I’ve been looking for. This not a light and fluffy feel-good book. There is loss and heartache, recognition of human desires, evil that destroys, and hope that endures. Due to the themes, this book is most appropriate for older teens and adults. There is no profanity, the only on page intimacy is kissing, there is some lightly implied intimacy that happens off page as well as mild references to desire and attraction. Overall a fantastic read, and I look forward to the next book.
Read
August 6, 2026WOW! I've had the privilege to read a few ARCS from various authors, but this one takes the cake! This was fun, swoony, fresh and full of action with a strong yet feminine female main character and a strong yet gentle main male character. Even reading this arc through one of my reading slumps, I devoured it! So good! The was fighting and fantasy and a villain you hate and a found family sort of situation you were rooting for. I appreciate the Christian themes and the clean romance so much. Truly an amazing read!
August 30, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ARC review
Oh my goodness. It's been a while since a book made me both laugh AND cry out loud (really), and I did not expect that from a dark fantasy. Author C.C. Urie is new to me, but I can honestly say she's a new favorite. This book gave me all the feelings.
Willow is the only daughter and heir of the King of Adriel. When she witnesses and endures horrendous tragedy at the hands of the Dark Master, an evil being bent on destroying her kingdom and making her his queen, she is suddenly thrust into a role she isn't ready for. Throughout the story, she battles severe PTSD, crippling grief, and depression, all while running for her life and trying to save her people from the Dark Master and his evil army.
Sylas, the General of the King's Elites, must do everything in his power to protect Willow. His team of Elites, complete with her cousin and best friend, Ronen, help her navigate the forest and return to the castle to face the Dark Master. But Sylas must also help Willow face her grief as it threatens to consume her, all while battling dark secrets of his own.
This book so beautifully describes the rawness of grief, and how the journey of grief is not a linear process but rather one that often comes in long, earth shattering waves. It explores the many faces of grief: anger, incredible sadness, bittersweet memories, survivors guilt, and the temptation to give up.
The faith aspects of this incredible story demonstrate how God will fight for us, even when we no longer feel like we can fight for ourselves.
“When the Almighty is with you, love, you can’t fail. He’s a mighty warrior that will go up against all the giants you’ll face. You only have to trust Him enough to get up and try again.”
This is a no-spice, dark fantasy, which sounds like a complete contradiction. It is very much a book for adults in that there are very real and graphic descriptions of war and death. Evil is very clearly evil. Mental health as it relates to loss and PTSD is addressed and explored. The romance is real and raw without any explicit scenes. There is one scene in which a married couple wakes up in bed together.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It has so many of my favorite tropes including reluctant friends-to-lovers, found family, and touch her and die. It also explores themes of finding light in darkness, overcoming loss, and trusting God in uncertainty. I know I will absolutely read this book over and over again, and I cannot wait for the next in the series.
Oh my goodness. It's been a while since a book made me both laugh AND cry out loud (really), and I did not expect that from a dark fantasy. Author C.C. Urie is new to me, but I can honestly say she's a new favorite. This book gave me all the feelings.
Willow is the only daughter and heir of the King of Adriel. When she witnesses and endures horrendous tragedy at the hands of the Dark Master, an evil being bent on destroying her kingdom and making her his queen, she is suddenly thrust into a role she isn't ready for. Throughout the story, she battles severe PTSD, crippling grief, and depression, all while running for her life and trying to save her people from the Dark Master and his evil army.
Sylas, the General of the King's Elites, must do everything in his power to protect Willow. His team of Elites, complete with her cousin and best friend, Ronen, help her navigate the forest and return to the castle to face the Dark Master. But Sylas must also help Willow face her grief as it threatens to consume her, all while battling dark secrets of his own.
This book so beautifully describes the rawness of grief, and how the journey of grief is not a linear process but rather one that often comes in long, earth shattering waves. It explores the many faces of grief: anger, incredible sadness, bittersweet memories, survivors guilt, and the temptation to give up.
The faith aspects of this incredible story demonstrate how God will fight for us, even when we no longer feel like we can fight for ourselves.
“When the Almighty is with you, love, you can’t fail. He’s a mighty warrior that will go up against all the giants you’ll face. You only have to trust Him enough to get up and try again.”
This is a no-spice, dark fantasy, which sounds like a complete contradiction. It is very much a book for adults in that there are very real and graphic descriptions of war and death. Evil is very clearly evil. Mental health as it relates to loss and PTSD is addressed and explored. The romance is real and raw without any explicit scenes. There is one scene in which a married couple wakes up in bed together.
I cannot say enough good things about this book. It has so many of my favorite tropes including reluctant friends-to-lovers, found family, and touch her and die. It also explores themes of finding light in darkness, overcoming loss, and trusting God in uncertainty. I know I will absolutely read this book over and over again, and I cannot wait for the next in the series.
August 30, 2026
I had no idea what to expect from a dark romance, especially one that is closed-door, but let me tell you, I could not put this book down until I finished it! Now I’m already looking forward to book two because I need to know what happens next.
Willow is a princess who suddenly finds herself under attack and becoming Queen within 24 hours. With everything happening so quickly, she doesn’t know what to do except turn to the Almighty and seek His guidance.
Silas is a General who is captured along with other members of the Elite. He finds himself alongside Willow and soon discovers that, in less than 24 hours, she has become his Queen.
Together, they must face the Dark One, but before they can confront that enemy, they have their own struggles to overcome. They are forced to deal with pain, grief, past trauma, and difficult circumstances while learning to seek the Almighty for strength and direction.
I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the characters’ personal struggles. The reluctant friendship, forced proximity, emotional moments, and faith-filled themes kept me invested throughout the story.
The faith element was one of the aspects I enjoyed most. Watching the characters learn to trust the Almighty rather than relying only on themselves added another layer to their journey.
Since this is a dark romance, I would encourage readers to check the blurb and content warnings before starting. This type of story will not be for everyone, and I think it is important to know what to expect going in.
Thank you to C.C. Urie for the opportunity to read an early copy. I was not required to leave a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Willow is a princess who suddenly finds herself under attack and becoming Queen within 24 hours. With everything happening so quickly, she doesn’t know what to do except turn to the Almighty and seek His guidance.
Silas is a General who is captured along with other members of the Elite. He finds himself alongside Willow and soon discovers that, in less than 24 hours, she has become his Queen.
Together, they must face the Dark One, but before they can confront that enemy, they have their own struggles to overcome. They are forced to deal with pain, grief, past trauma, and difficult circumstances while learning to seek the Almighty for strength and direction.
I appreciated that the story didn’t shy away from the characters’ personal struggles. The reluctant friendship, forced proximity, emotional moments, and faith-filled themes kept me invested throughout the story.
The faith element was one of the aspects I enjoyed most. Watching the characters learn to trust the Almighty rather than relying only on themselves added another layer to their journey.
Since this is a dark romance, I would encourage readers to check the blurb and content warnings before starting. This type of story will not be for everyone, and I think it is important to know what to expect going in.
Thank you to C.C. Urie for the opportunity to read an early copy. I was not required to leave a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 30, 2026
Where do I even begin with giving a review for this book? This book was beyond anything I could have possibly imagined.
When you talk about how amazing a story is, going into this, I knew it was going to be a battle of good versus evil, a fantasy with faith themes. But let me tell you...this book completely blew my mind.
From the very beginning, there is nonstop action and a constant battle for Willow. She was so strong yet didn’t think she was and often felt like she was a burden, when in reality, she was the one lifting everyone else up.
The scene between Willow and Sylas in the dungeon completely took my breath away. I felt like C.C. wrote that scene so heartbreakingly beautifully. You felt like you were right there in that tense moment with them as they fought to escape. I could feel the fear, the desperation, and the weight of everything they were going through. The Dark Master was sick and perfectly displayed the evil in the world.
I have to give this book 20 stars because I absolutely loved it that much. Even though Willow lost so much, she gained so much more, and I loved how full of faith her character remained throughout all of the devastation.
This book was an unforgettable journey, and I cannot recommend it enough. Can't wait for book 2 ❤️
When you talk about how amazing a story is, going into this, I knew it was going to be a battle of good versus evil, a fantasy with faith themes. But let me tell you...this book completely blew my mind.
From the very beginning, there is nonstop action and a constant battle for Willow. She was so strong yet didn’t think she was and often felt like she was a burden, when in reality, she was the one lifting everyone else up.
The scene between Willow and Sylas in the dungeon completely took my breath away. I felt like C.C. wrote that scene so heartbreakingly beautifully. You felt like you were right there in that tense moment with them as they fought to escape. I could feel the fear, the desperation, and the weight of everything they were going through. The Dark Master was sick and perfectly displayed the evil in the world.
I have to give this book 20 stars because I absolutely loved it that much. Even though Willow lost so much, she gained so much more, and I loved how full of faith her character remained throughout all of the devastation.
This book was an unforgettable journey, and I cannot recommend it enough. Can't wait for book 2 ❤️
August 30, 2026
This book will entice you from chapter one. Hold onto your seat and get ready...There is action and excitement! The characters are well developed, and deeply relatable. They will pull you along in their adventures. You will laugh, cry and feel hope. This is definitely a dark fantasy, but there is also faith and light. A well balanced look at good and evil and the clash between them, that leaves you a little breathless and wishing the next book was at your fingertips. Definitely recommend. Definitely looking forward to book two!
August 30, 2026
A Christian fantasy that is gritty and raw. C.C doesn't shy away from action, faith or romance in any capacity. This isn't a cookie cutter fantasy it is deep, and emotional. and the romance is clean yet breathtaking! Definitely recommend this series.
September 3, 2026
Such a strong FMC. I was privileged to be one of the arc readers. This book definitely will hook you from the start and I can’t wait to read more about the elites. I am very interested to see where the story goes.
August 31, 2026
I've read other books of C.C. Urie's and I'm happy to say she never disappoints! I loved the characters and dynamics! And the romance was perfect!
September 1, 2026
Thank you to the author for this free copy!!
I was a little nervous going into this book, because overtly Christian Fantasy is a hard genre to nail in my opinion. But C.C. Urie did a fantastic job! I really enjoyed this book. The spiritual and faith elements were written and developed perfectly. The characters were raw and gritty. The romance was swoonworthy. The battle between good and evil kept me on the edge of my seat! A fantastic story and I can’t wait for more in this series!
I was a little nervous going into this book, because overtly Christian Fantasy is a hard genre to nail in my opinion. But C.C. Urie did a fantastic job! I really enjoyed this book. The spiritual and faith elements were written and developed perfectly. The characters were raw and gritty. The romance was swoonworthy. The battle between good and evil kept me on the edge of my seat! A fantastic story and I can’t wait for more in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did not know what I was getting myself into when I started reading this gritty and dark Christian fantasy romance. Let me tell you, I was hooked from the first chapter. The action and peril hits right from the start and I really enjoyed reading the story from the main characters’ points of view. There is a lot of graphic violence and death, as well as trauma and some mental heath struggles as you might expect in a tale about battling evil over a kingdom, however there are also many sweet and touching moments of found-family style love and romantic love, and even moments where I laughed.
There are content warnings at the beginning, and if you feel you may be triggered by them, then please listen to your own convictions. I personally felt that the physical and verbal assaults written were not overly done, but done enough to make me uncomfortable, which emphasized how evil the character they came from is and I think was the point of including it. None of it was glorified, and it was never explicit, only used to portray evil and some of the horrors that come from battling darkness.
On the other side of the spectrum is the amount of faith and prayer written throughout. I loved seeing characters constantly praying in the moment and seeking guidance from The Almighty. While the characters still struggled with their own human emotions and trauma, they held to their faith and I truly appreciated that being portrayed.
If you are looking for a darker epic fantasy story that still highlights light overcoming the darkness, portrayals of real emotions and thoughts and desires that are not sugar-coated but handled realistically, and a strong theme of faith and following the Will of God, then this is one to check out. It is the first in a series, and I’m looking forward to reading the next one!
Thank you to the author for the eARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given willingly.
There are content warnings at the beginning, and if you feel you may be triggered by them, then please listen to your own convictions. I personally felt that the physical and verbal assaults written were not overly done, but done enough to make me uncomfortable, which emphasized how evil the character they came from is and I think was the point of including it. None of it was glorified, and it was never explicit, only used to portray evil and some of the horrors that come from battling darkness.
On the other side of the spectrum is the amount of faith and prayer written throughout. I loved seeing characters constantly praying in the moment and seeking guidance from The Almighty. While the characters still struggled with their own human emotions and trauma, they held to their faith and I truly appreciated that being portrayed.
If you are looking for a darker epic fantasy story that still highlights light overcoming the darkness, portrayals of real emotions and thoughts and desires that are not sugar-coated but handled realistically, and a strong theme of faith and following the Will of God, then this is one to check out. It is the first in a series, and I’m looking forward to reading the next one!
Thank you to the author for the eARC. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given willingly.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received by the author.
Under the Mountain is being described as a dark Christian romantasy, and while I think that's an apt description, you won't encounter the same kind of "dark" content you'll see in secular fiction. The author does include content warnings at the beginning of the book, which you may find helpful if you have any concerns.
What I liked about this book is that you're Immediately thrown into the action, rather than waiting around for something interesting to happen.Though it starts out kind of fast paced, it slows down for quite a bit after the first few chapters, giving you a chance to get to know the characters and for romance to blossom and grow.
I loved the sweet, tender, protective, and swoon-worthy romance that developed throughout the book.
I also enjoyed the depiction of real and raw emotions from the characters, such as fear, doubt, and grief. This made the characters feel more real and relatable.
I also really enjoyed the frequent mentions of The Almighty and on-the-page prayers, as well as the characters learning to truly lean on His strength rather than they're own, in the face of great adversity that would be impossible to overcome on they're own.
I liked the characters Choosing to trust in and be obedient The Almighty even when it was difficult to do so, didn't make sense, or went against what were personally inclined to do.
Overall, I frequently found that I didn't want to put this book down and always looked forward to picking it up again whenever I could.
If you're interested in reading darker Christian romantasy (without being TOO dark), you won't want to miss this one!
I'll definitely be reading more of this author in the future!
Under the Mountain is being described as a dark Christian romantasy, and while I think that's an apt description, you won't encounter the same kind of "dark" content you'll see in secular fiction. The author does include content warnings at the beginning of the book, which you may find helpful if you have any concerns.
What I liked about this book is that you're Immediately thrown into the action, rather than waiting around for something interesting to happen.Though it starts out kind of fast paced, it slows down for quite a bit after the first few chapters, giving you a chance to get to know the characters and for romance to blossom and grow.
I loved the sweet, tender, protective, and swoon-worthy romance that developed throughout the book.
I also enjoyed the depiction of real and raw emotions from the characters, such as fear, doubt, and grief. This made the characters feel more real and relatable.
I also really enjoyed the frequent mentions of The Almighty and on-the-page prayers, as well as the characters learning to truly lean on His strength rather than they're own, in the face of great adversity that would be impossible to overcome on they're own.
I liked the characters Choosing to trust in and be obedient The Almighty even when it was difficult to do so, didn't make sense, or went against what were personally inclined to do.
Overall, I frequently found that I didn't want to put this book down and always looked forward to picking it up again whenever I could.
If you're interested in reading darker Christian romantasy (without being TOO dark), you won't want to miss this one!
I'll definitely be reading more of this author in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story grabbed my attention from page one and held it until the end. A true tale of good and evil, but gave hope throughout.
We follow Princess Willow as she escapes and faces the Dark Master who asks to marry her. Unfortunately, when he is repeatedly turned down, he kills those she is closest to and then sends her to the dungeon after some torture. Here she unknowingly is met with the General of the Elites who has been imprisoned for the past month. She is able with the Almighty's will to escape with him and three others of his men. Once they meet with the other, she is reunited with her cousin, who she has bad news to deliver and shared grief. She is now Queen and he is now the Captain of the Guard.
I love that the story evolves around the grief Willow carries, but does not want to seem weak in front of the men. She finds comfort, not from her cousin, who is also dealing with grief, but in the man from the dungeon, Genearl Sylas. He has a tortured past and one that has lead him to this position and not one to feel worthy of love. Willow helps him to learn to forgive himself, while he helps her overcome her grief, all while slowly falling for one another.
We get to learn about each of the other nine men as they travel back to a city to learn more of what is happening with the Dark Ones. I love each of them and hope future books are coming so I can see them again.
At the end, there is a great battle where there is sacrifice and fighting fot what is right, and doing what the Almighty has asked of them. Afterall, the Almighty has a plan, and no matter how bleak things look to us, if we follow His direction and have faith, He will prevail.
Great message of hope, faith, and love. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend you read it.
We follow Princess Willow as she escapes and faces the Dark Master who asks to marry her. Unfortunately, when he is repeatedly turned down, he kills those she is closest to and then sends her to the dungeon after some torture. Here she unknowingly is met with the General of the Elites who has been imprisoned for the past month. She is able with the Almighty's will to escape with him and three others of his men. Once they meet with the other, she is reunited with her cousin, who she has bad news to deliver and shared grief. She is now Queen and he is now the Captain of the Guard.
I love that the story evolves around the grief Willow carries, but does not want to seem weak in front of the men. She finds comfort, not from her cousin, who is also dealing with grief, but in the man from the dungeon, Genearl Sylas. He has a tortured past and one that has lead him to this position and not one to feel worthy of love. Willow helps him to learn to forgive himself, while he helps her overcome her grief, all while slowly falling for one another.
We get to learn about each of the other nine men as they travel back to a city to learn more of what is happening with the Dark Ones. I love each of them and hope future books are coming so I can see them again.
At the end, there is a great battle where there is sacrifice and fighting fot what is right, and doing what the Almighty has asked of them. Afterall, the Almighty has a plan, and no matter how bleak things look to us, if we follow His direction and have faith, He will prevail.
Great message of hope, faith, and love. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend you read it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely loved this story and cannot wait for the next in the series! If you liked Sleeping Beauty, this gave those vibes. If you enjoy faith based stories, if you like fantasy and romance and a good biblical message woven seamlessly into your stories check this book out. This book was similar to These Hollow Vows but I enjoyed this book way better. I enjoyed Willows point of view but I loved Sylas's character. The antagonist almost remined me of an arrogant villain that is usually romanticized in romance books now days however, he was the villain and you wanted him to meet his end lol. I love how the author included faith in this book it's what brought this book over to a 5 stars for me as I explore more Christian authors I enjoy books that don't shy away from the hard topics or the trauma and she gave me that in here. I enjoy fantasy in general so I also loved that she didn't shy away for the violence of battle or violent encounters in here either. One quote that I really loved was "Let us be faithful in our commands and rebel against those who go against the Almighty. We will stand strong and courageous until our dying breaths." I loved that and in this life you have to hold firm and fight the good fight even if we fall doing so. Loved it!!! I will be picking up more books from this author I enjoyed her writing style and the pacing was steady throughout. Loved the fantasy characters and the atmosphere in this book it reminded me of sleeping beauty so hard with Maleficent, her goblins and raven. I enjoyed the strong male characters around Willow that were strong in faith also. Absolutely recommend this book!
Did Not Finish
August 24, 2026This is an ARC review - DNF 92% (no star rating)
I would like to start that I don't think this book is poorly written at all. My favorite parts of this book were the world building, the politics, and the found family.
However, I unfortunately had to DNF at 92%. I went in expecting this to be a dark Christian romantasy. I saw the content warnings, and I don't trigger easily so I wasn't too concerned. Ultimately, the content was the reason I wasn't comfortable continuing.
There are multiple scenes involving the villain forcibly kissing the FMC, along with strong threats of sexual violence towards her. For my personal preferences, this was much more disturbing than I personally expect when picking up a book marketed as Christian fantasy.
The language was also very lustful. I will DNF books when the dynamic between the FMC and MMC is lustful, and I've never read a book with this type of language coming from the villain.
I've seen that other readers have read and enjoyed this, so I know this is just my personal boundaries and comfort levels. I wanted to leave this review to mention the content because I know there are other readers like me who seek out Christian fantasy because of the content they expect that label to imply.
I would like to start that I don't think this book is poorly written at all. My favorite parts of this book were the world building, the politics, and the found family.
However, I unfortunately had to DNF at 92%. I went in expecting this to be a dark Christian romantasy. I saw the content warnings, and I don't trigger easily so I wasn't too concerned. Ultimately, the content was the reason I wasn't comfortable continuing.
There are multiple scenes involving the villain forcibly kissing the FMC, along with strong threats of sexual violence towards her. For my personal preferences, this was much more disturbing than I personally expect when picking up a book marketed as Christian fantasy.
The language was also very lustful. I will DNF books when the dynamic between the FMC and MMC is lustful, and I've never read a book with this type of language coming from the villain.
I've seen that other readers have read and enjoyed this, so I know this is just my personal boundaries and comfort levels. I wanted to leave this review to mention the content because I know there are other readers like me who seek out Christian fantasy because of the content they expect that label to imply.
September 4, 2026
Genre: Epic fantasy, Christian fantasy, romantic
Audience: adult audience, dark versus light theme with quite dark images
My summary: Princess Willow Andric is captured by the Dark Master and loses everything. She has to rely on everything her father taught her and the Almighty to escape and make her way back to her kingdom that is also on the verge of being taken from her. Sylas Pryce, the general of the Elites, has been captured by the Dark Master and gives up hope of escape until a woman is imprisoned near him and they create a plan together.
Positives
Willow and Sylas, the main characters, both have enormous obstacles to overcome, and that made me like them and feel invested in their journey.
The stakes are high, and that creates much tension alongside the tension created by Willow and Sylas’s relationship.
I really enjoyed the romance!
The theme of finding light in utter darkness is made clear through the story. Really awful things happen, but Willow finds hope in the Almighty.
I liked the side characters, and they are going to have their own books in the series.
The description of scenes, people, and fights were vivid. I could visualize it all.
I’m excited for the next book in the series!
Overall: A journey of finding light in darkness.
Audience: adult audience, dark versus light theme with quite dark images
My summary: Princess Willow Andric is captured by the Dark Master and loses everything. She has to rely on everything her father taught her and the Almighty to escape and make her way back to her kingdom that is also on the verge of being taken from her. Sylas Pryce, the general of the Elites, has been captured by the Dark Master and gives up hope of escape until a woman is imprisoned near him and they create a plan together.
Positives
Willow and Sylas, the main characters, both have enormous obstacles to overcome, and that made me like them and feel invested in their journey.
The stakes are high, and that creates much tension alongside the tension created by Willow and Sylas’s relationship.
I really enjoyed the romance!
The theme of finding light in utter darkness is made clear through the story. Really awful things happen, but Willow finds hope in the Almighty.
I liked the side characters, and they are going to have their own books in the series.
The description of scenes, people, and fights were vivid. I could visualize it all.
I’m excited for the next book in the series!
Overall: A journey of finding light in darkness.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved Under the Mountain and enjoyed every minute of it! From the very beginning, I was completely drawn into the story, and I can’t wait to see what the next book in the series has in store.
One of my favorite parts was getting to watch these characters grow and, in the end, see them get their happily ever after. Their journey felt so rewarding! Willow was especially my favorite character. I loved that the story didn’t shy away from the difficult emotions of grief. Instead, we got to walk her through it, and it made everything feel so real. I truly felt like I was experiencing everything alongside her rather than just reading words on a page.
The intense scenes and action were among my favorites. They kept me invested and made it hard to put the book down. The emotional moments, the suspense, and the relationships all blended so well. And I loved the chemistry between the two main characters.
When I finished the book, I was left feeling happy, satisfied, and excited for what’s next in this series. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to be part of the ARC team and read this story early.
One of my favorite parts was getting to watch these characters grow and, in the end, see them get their happily ever after. Their journey felt so rewarding! Willow was especially my favorite character. I loved that the story didn’t shy away from the difficult emotions of grief. Instead, we got to walk her through it, and it made everything feel so real. I truly felt like I was experiencing everything alongside her rather than just reading words on a page.
The intense scenes and action were among my favorites. They kept me invested and made it hard to put the book down. The emotional moments, the suspense, and the relationships all blended so well. And I loved the chemistry between the two main characters.
When I finished the book, I was left feeling happy, satisfied, and excited for what’s next in this series. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to be part of the ARC team and read this story early.
Review of advance copy received from Author
**I received this book as an eARC for the author**
I read Under the Mountain with an open mind. After two chapters I was truly hooked and just devoured the book! Willow was kidnapped from her childhood home and was offered marriage with the Dark One after watching the King, her dad, and uncle get punished for saying'"NO!' to the arrangement. Willow finds a lowly prisoner in the dungeon that she recognizes as the General. Together they are able to out smart the stupid trolls and rescue the other men being detained. This is just the beginning of the intense adventure, being chased by the Dark One, and trying to save her kingdom from afar. This book was so enthralling that I read it in a couple of days. This was my first book read by C.C. Urie and I will be reading her other stories as well. Thank you for the chance to be a part of the ARC team and opening my eyes to a new author that I am now adding all your books to my cart!
This is a clean, no language book, but there is some violence involved. I would recommend this book for teenager and adults.
I read Under the Mountain with an open mind. After two chapters I was truly hooked and just devoured the book! Willow was kidnapped from her childhood home and was offered marriage with the Dark One after watching the King, her dad, and uncle get punished for saying'"NO!' to the arrangement. Willow finds a lowly prisoner in the dungeon that she recognizes as the General. Together they are able to out smart the stupid trolls and rescue the other men being detained. This is just the beginning of the intense adventure, being chased by the Dark One, and trying to save her kingdom from afar. This book was so enthralling that I read it in a couple of days. This was my first book read by C.C. Urie and I will be reading her other stories as well. Thank you for the chance to be a part of the ARC team and opening my eyes to a new author that I am now adding all your books to my cart!
This is a clean, no language book, but there is some violence involved. I would recommend this book for teenager and adults.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Congratulations to CC Urie the release of Under the Mountain! I read and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it considering Dark Fantasy isn’t really my thing. I especially loved the romance between Sylas and Willow. It’s one of the best romance storylines I’ve read in a while. This book is dark and has multiple graphic scenes, but isn’t any worse than anything you’d find in the Old Testament. It’s action packed, full of romantic moments, and God-centered. Under the Mountain is a wonderful start to a series that shines bright through the darkness, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great Christian fantasy! Lots of tension, fighting action, swoons banter and more. Princess Willow is kidnapped by the Dark One and escaped the dungeon with Silas, the captain of the Guard, and a few other Elite guards. Once they escape, Silas helps her deal the trauma. It is so good,
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sylas was lost, and he realized that there would be no finding his way back to the life he had before Willow nestled herself against the hardened parts of his heart.
Sylas and Willow are so perfect for each other!! I love how they are both strong in their own way: Willow at the start, and Sylas helping her through the end. I love how Sylas is reluctant to fall in love, yet still becomes the first one of the two! 🫠🤩 The overcoming of loss is such a sensitive point, and I love how C.C. Urie handled it❤️
Sylas and Willow are so perfect for each other!! I love how they are both strong in their own way: Willow at the start, and Sylas helping her through the end. I love how Sylas is reluctant to fall in love, yet still becomes the first one of the two! 🫠🤩 The overcoming of loss is such a sensitive point, and I love how C.C. Urie handled it❤️
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