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The Dark Sword
She survived. She escaped. She is still learning what it means to be free.
Ren'wyn Nyvaris has spent her life obeying, enduring, surviving. Now, for the first time, she knows exactly what she wants.
And it’s impossible.
Somewhere in the darkness of Lissea’s dungeon, Fael waits. Bringing him home means risking everything for the man she loves. The man who deceived her. The man she no longer knows if she can trust.
Because Fael is Falorian Greywood, crown prince of the empire that hunted her kind to extinction.
As rebellion stirs across Aridryn and ancient magic draws six souls toward a destiny none of them yet understand, Ren’wyn discovers that saving one man may change the fate of them all.
Love costs more than she ever imagined. Freedom means more than escaping the past. And Ren’wyn’s choice may change the future of magic itself.
Ren'wyn Nyvaris has spent her life obeying, enduring, surviving. Now, for the first time, she knows exactly what she wants.
And it’s impossible.
Somewhere in the darkness of Lissea’s dungeon, Fael waits. Bringing him home means risking everything for the man she loves. The man who deceived her. The man she no longer knows if she can trust.
Because Fael is Falorian Greywood, crown prince of the empire that hunted her kind to extinction.
As rebellion stirs across Aridryn and ancient magic draws six souls toward a destiny none of them yet understand, Ren’wyn discovers that saving one man may change the fate of them all.
Love costs more than she ever imagined. Freedom means more than escaping the past. And Ren’wyn’s choice may change the future of magic itself.
398 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 6, 2026
** THIS REVIEW WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS **
The Dark Sword picks up immediately after that amazing cliffhanger ending to The Dark Mage and the vibe is dark and devastated. Ren'Wyn and her friends must recover from the events in book one to bolster support for their rebellion. Still reeling from Fael's betrayal along with the hurt at her companions acquiesence to his capture, Ren'Wyn finds some respite with her friend from university, Peria. While staying with Peria she is joined by another magic user that binds to her - the empath Elwha. After she helps them gain the support of the Anduan council the group pledges to rescue Fael..
The Dark Sword is a tale that weaves not only an epic high fantasy but also a deeply moving portrayal of hurt, trauma, PTSD, resilience and recovery. It's a reminder that hurt people hurt people, that the strong can be broken and lives can be torn asunder but there is always hope to be found, and love.
This is a really strong sequel - answering the wants I had from reading book one and introducing a wonderful new character to the party. The journey across Aridryn continues to be fascinating and expertly portrayed. Ren'Wyn continues to grow into her power and stature - becoming ever more deadly while retaining her fragility. The last chapters of the book served as welcome relief after so much hurt and tragedy - even though the romance scenes became a little overbearing for me.
For Readers Who Love
Slow-Burn Romance
Found Family
Elemental Magic
Rising From The Ashes
Recovery & Reconciliation
Plant Based Healing
Chosen One Prophesy
Rebellion By The Opresssed
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚, 𝑰'𝒎 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆
The Dark Sword picks up immediately after that amazing cliffhanger ending to The Dark Mage and the vibe is dark and devastated. Ren'Wyn and her friends must recover from the events in book one to bolster support for their rebellion. Still reeling from Fael's betrayal along with the hurt at her companions acquiesence to his capture, Ren'Wyn finds some respite with her friend from university, Peria. While staying with Peria she is joined by another magic user that binds to her - the empath Elwha. After she helps them gain the support of the Anduan council the group pledges to rescue Fael..
The Dark Sword is a tale that weaves not only an epic high fantasy but also a deeply moving portrayal of hurt, trauma, PTSD, resilience and recovery. It's a reminder that hurt people hurt people, that the strong can be broken and lives can be torn asunder but there is always hope to be found, and love.
This is a really strong sequel - answering the wants I had from reading book one and introducing a wonderful new character to the party. The journey across Aridryn continues to be fascinating and expertly portrayed. Ren'Wyn continues to grow into her power and stature - becoming ever more deadly while retaining her fragility. The last chapters of the book served as welcome relief after so much hurt and tragedy - even though the romance scenes became a little overbearing for me.
For Readers Who Love
Slow-Burn Romance
Found Family
Elemental Magic
Rising From The Ashes
Recovery & Reconciliation
Plant Based Healing
Chosen One Prophesy
Rebellion By The Opresssed
𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒗𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒇𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚, 𝑰'𝒎 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒕𝒐 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always go into 2nd books cautiously. Often, they fall into a sticky trap where expectations aren't met, and the story has lost the build-up from the first book.
The Dark Sword doesn't do any of that.
If anything, I dare say book 2 was better than the first.
The suspense carries steady across each page, never letting up. The introduction of a new character is natural, and her story flows seamlessly alongside the characters from the first book.
Our characters haven't lost any of the pieces that drew us to them. They stay true to themselves.
The prose is beautiful, as is the depth of the world building. Vander Stelt expanded on her story telling skills and it leaves me so excited (chomping, chomping, chomping at that bit) for what's coming next.
The Dark Sword doesn't do any of that.
If anything, I dare say book 2 was better than the first.
The suspense carries steady across each page, never letting up. The introduction of a new character is natural, and her story flows seamlessly alongside the characters from the first book.
Our characters haven't lost any of the pieces that drew us to them. They stay true to themselves.
The prose is beautiful, as is the depth of the world building. Vander Stelt expanded on her story telling skills and it leaves me so excited (chomping, chomping, chomping at that bit) for what's coming next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 2 pulled me in right from the beginning. I really liked the way Erin brought me back into Ren’wyn’s world, and I was immediately ready to see what was going to happen next with her and Fael. Their relationship continues to be one of the parts of the story that keeps me invested.
One of my favorite things about this book (besides the humor or new character that I won’t give away) was all the detail about the natural plants and their possible uses. I honestly found myself fascinated by it—and I learned things along the way (currently looking up if that plant/oil can help an ailment)! I love when a fantasy book can sneak in interesting information like that without feeling like I’m reading a textbook. 😂
I really enjoyed the continuation of Ren’wyn and Fael’s story. There’s enough mystery, danger, magic, and relationship drama (did I say drama?🫣 to keep things moving, and by the end I was definitely ready for more.
At this point, I’m invested in Ren’wyn and Fael and the whole gang, so of course I’ll be continuing on to Book 3. I need to know what happens next!
I was given an opportunity by the author to read the book ahead of others in order to provide early feedback.
One of my favorite things about this book (besides the humor or new character that I won’t give away) was all the detail about the natural plants and their possible uses. I honestly found myself fascinated by it—and I learned things along the way (currently looking up if that plant/oil can help an ailment)! I love when a fantasy book can sneak in interesting information like that without feeling like I’m reading a textbook. 😂
I really enjoyed the continuation of Ren’wyn and Fael’s story. There’s enough mystery, danger, magic, and relationship drama (did I say drama?🫣 to keep things moving, and by the end I was definitely ready for more.
At this point, I’m invested in Ren’wyn and Fael and the whole gang, so of course I’ll be continuing on to Book 3. I need to know what happens next!
I was given an opportunity by the author to read the book ahead of others in order to provide early feedback.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed The Dark Mage and was super excited to read this second installment and was not disappointed. I really enjoyed the dynamics of this little group and how Ren'wyn grows in her confidence and magic. I enjoyed the introduction of new characters and the challenges that Fael and Ren'wyn face in their relationship. There are some great moments in this book that I don't want to spoil, and I am so glad there is more coming!
September 26, 2026
Talk about a PERFECT sequel! The Dark Sword picks up immediately after the events of The Dark Mage and follows Ryn’wyn as she navigates heartbreak and betrayal while building a rebellion against the empire that has mercilessly hunted her kind.
I love that this book gives Ryn’wyn the space to discover who she truly is beyond her abilities and relationships. As much as I love Fael, I definitely feel like his absence gave her character so much growth and confidence in her own abilities!
I really want to highlight how elegant and polished the writing in this series is as well! Erin’s vivid and descriptive storytelling allows for a truly immersive experience in to this beautiful world she has created! I’m so grateful to have been given the privilege to read these wonderful books!
Huge thank you to the author for the arc in exchange for my honest review.
October 21, 2026
I received an Advanced Read Copy from the author.
This review has spoilers from The Dark Mage and The Dark Sword.
I really dislike second books because I already know I'll have a cliffhanger at a moment that I don't want one. However, I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Here are the things I loved about this book.
1. I continue to appreciate how beautifully Renwyn's story is told and how she continues to grow in her confidence and herself. I love the way her story is told.
2. We see the depth of Fael's injuries after his imprisionment, to the point where it is obvious that he needs help and Renwyn cannot help him alone. It takes a village to deal with his PTSD.
3. I love the spirit of Elwha. I go back and forth between whether or not she's my favorite character or Zev is. I also like that it was Elwha who is the empath and not Peria. I think Peria's role on the council was a good move.
4. There's a really beautiful chapter where Zev and Renwyn go to a garden together adn Zev opens up to her. That entire chapter made my heart sing. I love that he calls her "Little Mage."
5. I really liked that we gradually hear the 3rd person point of view of the other characters, just a little in the novel. I'm hoping that we get a little more of that in the 3rd book.
6. I appreciate that Aridryn's lands encapsolate the depth of the lands we have on earth. As they journey through this world, they encounter a variety of terrains and animals that reflect our whole globe.
7. I like the way that Renwyn has to navigate the complexities of her power, how it can be used for good, how it can be used for justice, but she's also aware of how it could be used for evil.
What I thought was weak:
1. For having the book be called "The Dark Sword" I don't think we get enough background on the sword nor enough time with it in the book. Some kind of historical narrative like the prophecy about Renwyn that shows up in the Dark Mage was needed.
2. There are a few places, especially the ending of this book, where the next part of the story felt like it snuck up on you. I felt like the imperial troops appearing at the end of the book suddenly happened without a great lead in.
3. I had a hard time engaging the chapters where Northfallen appears. I didn't really get what was happening or why. The legends around the Valdris Barrows felt thrown in for convenience instead of lore that is well known throughout Aridryn, even if Ren hasn't heard of it. We heard more about the Maiden and the Warrior than the Barrows.
4. This cliffhanger is not nearly as strong as the end of the first book.
Things I'm waiting for in book three because they didn't show up in The Dark Sword:
1. Fael's mom returning
2. The shades from the blood vow showing up.
3. Elwha's backstory
Can't wait for book three!
This review has spoilers from The Dark Mage and The Dark Sword.
I really dislike second books because I already know I'll have a cliffhanger at a moment that I don't want one. However, I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Here are the things I loved about this book.
1. I continue to appreciate how beautifully Renwyn's story is told and how she continues to grow in her confidence and herself. I love the way her story is told.
2. We see the depth of Fael's injuries after his imprisionment, to the point where it is obvious that he needs help and Renwyn cannot help him alone. It takes a village to deal with his PTSD.
3. I love the spirit of Elwha. I go back and forth between whether or not she's my favorite character or Zev is. I also like that it was Elwha who is the empath and not Peria. I think Peria's role on the council was a good move.
4. There's a really beautiful chapter where Zev and Renwyn go to a garden together adn Zev opens up to her. That entire chapter made my heart sing. I love that he calls her "Little Mage."
5. I really liked that we gradually hear the 3rd person point of view of the other characters, just a little in the novel. I'm hoping that we get a little more of that in the 3rd book.
6. I appreciate that Aridryn's lands encapsolate the depth of the lands we have on earth. As they journey through this world, they encounter a variety of terrains and animals that reflect our whole globe.
7. I like the way that Renwyn has to navigate the complexities of her power, how it can be used for good, how it can be used for justice, but she's also aware of how it could be used for evil.
What I thought was weak:
1. For having the book be called "The Dark Sword" I don't think we get enough background on the sword nor enough time with it in the book. Some kind of historical narrative like the prophecy about Renwyn that shows up in the Dark Mage was needed.
2. There are a few places, especially the ending of this book, where the next part of the story felt like it snuck up on you. I felt like the imperial troops appearing at the end of the book suddenly happened without a great lead in.
3. I had a hard time engaging the chapters where Northfallen appears. I didn't really get what was happening or why. The legends around the Valdris Barrows felt thrown in for convenience instead of lore that is well known throughout Aridryn, even if Ren hasn't heard of it. We heard more about the Maiden and the Warrior than the Barrows.
4. This cliffhanger is not nearly as strong as the end of the first book.
Things I'm waiting for in book three because they didn't show up in The Dark Sword:
1. Fael's mom returning
2. The shades from the blood vow showing up.
3. Elwha's backstory
Can't wait for book three!
October 22, 2026
Thank you BookSirens and the Author for this ARC, here is my honest review.
I was so excited to get back into this world after the ending of book one, and I was ready for more adventure with these characters!
One of my favorite things about this story is the found family. I loved following these characters on their journey, watching them fight for what is right, and seeing the bonds they share grow stronger.
This book also has such a beautiful message about acceptance and embracing everyone for who they are. It explores trauma, forgiveness, and the reality that sometimes the people we love the most are the ones who hurt us. But what matters most is what we choose to do afterward.
While I really enjoyed the story, I did feel it was a little too long. Some parts could have been condensed to help keep the pacing moving and hold my attention better.
BUT... am I going to read the next book? ABSOLUTELY!
After everything that happened, I need to know what happens!
I was so excited to get back into this world after the ending of book one, and I was ready for more adventure with these characters!
One of my favorite things about this story is the found family. I loved following these characters on their journey, watching them fight for what is right, and seeing the bonds they share grow stronger.
This book also has such a beautiful message about acceptance and embracing everyone for who they are. It explores trauma, forgiveness, and the reality that sometimes the people we love the most are the ones who hurt us. But what matters most is what we choose to do afterward.
While I really enjoyed the story, I did feel it was a little too long. Some parts could have been condensed to help keep the pacing moving and hold my attention better.
BUT... am I going to read the next book? ABSOLUTELY!
After everything that happened, I need to know what happens!
October 26, 2026
Another home run by Erin Vander Stelt! Just as good as her first novel, Erin takes us into the wilds of her story with new characters that are complex and well-written. Her characters are flawed humans with traumas that affect how they interact with each other. It's refreshing to see imperfect people interact in an imperfect world.
Read it. You'll love it.
Read it. You'll love it.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews