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Mages of the Wheel #0
Wind & Wildfire
“I like it when you shine for me, Sabri Sultan. Someday, I hope you shine for them all. So they see you like I do.”
He is the future sultan, a man who wields brutal magic and only knows how to be what they’ve made him. She is a commoner, a woman who champions the vulnerable and treads where she does not belong.
Dilay Akar is the daughter of a judge. By day, she trains the wealthy in magic, and by night, she breaks the Sultan’s laws. But even those closest to her do not always appreciate what she is striving for, or believe that she can achieve it.
Omar Sabri is the Sultan’s tool, flaying minds open to obtain their secrets and truths. Everyone who looks at him sees only the prince—or the monster. Even he cannot see the man beneath the power and the position.
When Omar secretly enlists Dilay’s help in controlling his magic, it sets off a chain of events that will reshape Tamar for generations to come. Dilay will have to choose between the familiar and the powerful. Between people she cares for. And whether to hurt one to help many.
The Wheel turns for balance in all things, and where love springs, may also spring hate.
Wheel, she was lovely. Someone who knew exactly who they were, and what they wanted, and were moving toward it like an arrow loosed from a bow.
He is the future sultan, a man who wields brutal magic and only knows how to be what they’ve made him. She is a commoner, a woman who champions the vulnerable and treads where she does not belong.
Dilay Akar is the daughter of a judge. By day, she trains the wealthy in magic, and by night, she breaks the Sultan’s laws. But even those closest to her do not always appreciate what she is striving for, or believe that she can achieve it.
Omar Sabri is the Sultan’s tool, flaying minds open to obtain their secrets and truths. Everyone who looks at him sees only the prince—or the monster. Even he cannot see the man beneath the power and the position.
When Omar secretly enlists Dilay’s help in controlling his magic, it sets off a chain of events that will reshape Tamar for generations to come. Dilay will have to choose between the familiar and the powerful. Between people she cares for. And whether to hurt one to help many.
The Wheel turns for balance in all things, and where love springs, may also spring hate.
Wheel, she was lovely. Someone who knew exactly who they were, and what they wanted, and were moving toward it like an arrow loosed from a bow.
388 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2020
306 people are currently reading
4168 people want to read
About the author
J.D. Evans
10 books1,087 followersJ. D. Evans writes fantasy and science fiction romance. After earning her degree in linguistics, J. D. served a decade as an army officer. She once spent her hours putting together briefings for helicopter pilots and generals. Now she writes stories, tends to two unreasonable tiny humans, knits, sews badly, gardens, and cultivates Pinterest Fails. After a stint in Beirut, J. D. fell in love with the Levant, which inspired the setting for her debut series, Mages of the Wheel.
Originally hailing from Montana, J. D. now resides in North Carolina with her husband, two attempts at mini-clones gone rogue, and too many stories in her head.
Originally hailing from Montana, J. D. now resides in North Carolina with her husband, two attempts at mini-clones gone rogue, and too many stories in her head.
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July 31, 2022She taught control to the most dangerous fire mage in Tamar. But when she is asked to do the same for a troubled Prince, all her secrets might be revealed.
This book is a standalone, and takes place before the events of the main Mages of the Wheel series. It can be read at any time, but I believe you will enjoy it most After you have read Reign & Ruin.
Happy Reading!
<3 Jenn
This book is a standalone, and takes place before the events of the main Mages of the Wheel series. It can be read at any time, but I believe you will enjoy it most After you have read Reign & Ruin.
Happy Reading!
<3 Jenn
September 27, 2024
THIS BOOK WAS EVERYTHING AND CEMENTED THIS SERIES AS AN ALL TIME FAVOURITE.
I'm normally so skeptical of prequels (especially when they're full length books like this) because going backwards when you're so invested in a series can be annoying. BUT THIS WAS SO FREAKIN GOOD. I think the last time I felt this way about a book was "A Study in Drowning" - I just felt so incredibly invested in Omar and Dilay's story, such a perfect slowburn. Individually and together their characters were absolute perfection. As we know from Reign & Ruin, Omar (Naime's dad) doesn't quite have a grip on reality or his memories anymore because of the repercussions of his veritor magic. In his younger years, his dad used would use him to extract the truth from people, unbothered about the painful awful effects on his son. Because of his abilities, Omar couldn't touch anyone without harming them. Enter Dilay, Naime's brilliant mom, the only woman professor at Tamar's University. Her and Omar cross paths, and she finds herself helping, teaching, and supporting him in all ways. Unsurprisingly, this task comes with more challenges than one can imagine.
Just gonna pretend their story doesn't end the way it does (or I will literally be spiralling forever, how depressing!!). If the series ends with a way for them to magically bring Dilay back I won't mind :)))
Okay but while the romance was 100000/10, truly one of the best I've ever read, some of the explanations for things happening in present day didn't 100% convince me. In particular, Behram and Omar continuing to keep him around. This book explained and showed why Behram is the way he is, I get that, but to me, it didn't entirely justify how and why Omar is still so lenient with him.
Anyways, this was beautiful and I will be thinking about it forever. On to Ice & Ivy, then waiting for the next book to publish.
I'm normally so skeptical of prequels (especially when they're full length books like this) because going backwards when you're so invested in a series can be annoying. BUT THIS WAS SO FREAKIN GOOD. I think the last time I felt this way about a book was "A Study in Drowning" - I just felt so incredibly invested in Omar and Dilay's story, such a perfect slowburn. Individually and together their characters were absolute perfection. As we know from Reign & Ruin, Omar (Naime's dad) doesn't quite have a grip on reality or his memories anymore because of the repercussions of his veritor magic. In his younger years, his dad used would use him to extract the truth from people, unbothered about the painful awful effects on his son. Because of his abilities, Omar couldn't touch anyone without harming them. Enter Dilay, Naime's brilliant mom, the only woman professor at Tamar's University. Her and Omar cross paths, and she finds herself helping, teaching, and supporting him in all ways. Unsurprisingly, this task comes with more challenges than one can imagine.
Just gonna pretend their story doesn't end the way it does (or I will literally be spiralling forever, how depressing!!). If the series ends with a way for them to magically bring Dilay back I won't mind :)))
Okay but while the romance was 100000/10, truly one of the best I've ever read, some of the explanations for things happening in present day didn't 100% convince me. In particular, Behram and Omar continuing to keep him around. This book explained and showed why Behram is the way he is, I get that, but to me, it didn't entirely justify how and why Omar is still so lenient with him.
Anyways, this was beautiful and I will be thinking about it forever. On to Ice & Ivy, then waiting for the next book to publish.
June 16, 2022
Evans hooked me with the first book in this series with her characters and beautiful descriptions of magic and how it physically manifests (I love interesting magic), and I was quickly reminded in Wind & Wildfire why I have so much fun reading her books. The language is beautiful, the politics are multi-layered and fascinating, and I enjoyed learning more about Tamar’s history and the story behind Naime’s parents. Also, I might have cried several times, so it definitely gave me ‘the feels.’
January 12, 2025
Okay, this rivals Reign and Ruin as my favourite.
Wind & Wildfire is a prequel and tells the story of younger days of Sultan Omar and his in-between commoner and noble wife Dilay.
Dilay is incredibly tenacious. It had been hard for her to earn her place among the University instructors in a male world. Not to mention using her free time to secretly teach the poor and helping her father build a better future in the trade guild. So when the Omar, one of the Sabri princes (who she despises due to his privilege and ignorance) secretly comes to her for instruction on magical control, she is not impressed.
After being bribed by books (relatable), she hesitantly instructs the prince and learns that he is not as terrible as she and everyone else thought.
“You have to accept what you are, and that wishing and punishing yourself will never change it.”
Their slow burn, secretive, illicit relationship was sooooo good! Dilay treats Omar as a real person, not a prince, not a thing. With impertinence that should see her imprisoned or executed but gets a grin.
We see the beginning of the hope that the future Sultana carries forward.
She was a Queen in his heart, and was all he would ever see.
We also learn more about Behram Kadir before he becomes the Grand Visor. His dad sucked but also, the Behram has fiery anger issues and possessiveness.
I would recommend reading this after book one - Reign and Ruin. I read it after book two, but I think after book one would have been best.
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Wind & Wildfire is a prequel and tells the story of younger days of Sultan Omar and his in-between commoner and noble wife Dilay.
Dilay is incredibly tenacious. It had been hard for her to earn her place among the University instructors in a male world. Not to mention using her free time to secretly teach the poor and helping her father build a better future in the trade guild. So when the Omar, one of the Sabri princes (who she despises due to his privilege and ignorance) secretly comes to her for instruction on magical control, she is not impressed.
After being bribed by books (relatable), she hesitantly instructs the prince and learns that he is not as terrible as she and everyone else thought.
“You have to accept what you are, and that wishing and punishing yourself will never change it.”
Their slow burn, secretive, illicit relationship was sooooo good! Dilay treats Omar as a real person, not a prince, not a thing. With impertinence that should see her imprisoned or executed but gets a grin.
We see the beginning of the hope that the future Sultana carries forward.
She was a Queen in his heart, and was all he would ever see.
We also learn more about Behram Kadir before he becomes the Grand Visor. His dad sucked but also, the Behram has fiery anger issues and possessiveness.
I would recommend reading this after book one - Reign and Ruin. I read it after book two, but I think after book one would have been best.
Bookstagram
August 25, 2023
i’ve been putting off reading wind & wildfire for A WHILE cause i knew what happened to dilay and omar’s story in the main series. (AND WITHIN REASON, THIS SHIT RIPPED MY HEART OUT AND THREW IT IN A MUDDY PUDDLE. but in a good way.)
i normally read prequels as an obligation, truly. i have to force myself to finish those damn things. this book was a complete exception, it was absolutely amazing. i forced myself to read it before the release of ice & ivy (i am so incredibly excited for that one) and i am so fucking glad i did.
i’m gonna be honest, i did not like siren & scion, but i adored the two books before that one, and the one thing that ALL of them had in common is how beautifully j.d evans writes. she knows how to write yearning, tenderness and devotion.
i cannot explain how much i loved this book and how much i loved dilay and omar. they’re fighting for first place in my heart with naime and makram. and naime and makram are STRONG contestants so you must understand how amazing these two were. (i am also repulsively glad that behram has always been a greasy vile lowlife scum with no ambitions no backbone and no sense of self all encompassed in that stupid fucking mustache of his and that there was no “his backstory was tragic so you must feel bad for him 🥺” bullshit involved in this)
does it hurt knowing how it all ended in the future? absolutely, i am in shambles. did it make any part of their story any less beautiful? not at all. it was all worth it, and i say that as the reader and i’m very sure omar and dilay would feel the same about it.
so yeah, if you have read the main series, you should ABSOLUTELY read this one. it’s stunning, i love this writer so so much.
i normally read prequels as an obligation, truly. i have to force myself to finish those damn things. this book was a complete exception, it was absolutely amazing. i forced myself to read it before the release of ice & ivy (i am so incredibly excited for that one) and i am so fucking glad i did.
i’m gonna be honest, i did not like siren & scion, but i adored the two books before that one, and the one thing that ALL of them had in common is how beautifully j.d evans writes. she knows how to write yearning, tenderness and devotion.
i cannot explain how much i loved this book and how much i loved dilay and omar. they’re fighting for first place in my heart with naime and makram. and naime and makram are STRONG contestants so you must understand how amazing these two were. (i am also repulsively glad that behram has always been a greasy vile lowlife scum with no ambitions no backbone and no sense of self all encompassed in that stupid fucking mustache of his and that there was no “his backstory was tragic so you must feel bad for him 🥺” bullshit involved in this)
does it hurt knowing how it all ended in the future? absolutely, i am in shambles. did it make any part of their story any less beautiful? not at all. it was all worth it, and i say that as the reader and i’m very sure omar and dilay would feel the same about it.
so yeah, if you have read the main series, you should ABSOLUTELY read this one. it’s stunning, i love this writer so so much.
June 4, 2021
4.25 stars. So I thought this was going to be a novella since it’s a prequel, but it’s definitely a full length book, and it was free! I sometimes struggle with ebooks, much preferring to read physical copies, but I had to read this. It started slow, much like the first book, but I was hooked by about 25%. Definitely glad I waited to read this one until I’d become better acquainted with the characters. All three of the books in this series that I’ve read so far have been so much fun, all with a great slow-burn romance. I’m addicted. This is my least favorite of the series so far, but still so good. Really helps with understanding motives and backgrounds, and made me feel more connected to the characters I didn’t know as much about. Like Ihsan’s father... I can’t even talk about it, but I got emotional, knowing all that happens in the first and second books.
Really, the only reason this isn’t getting 5 stars is because, compared to the other two I’ve read, it’s just barely not as good, for my own tastes. And maybe because I was itching to hold a physical copy in my hands.
Is it worth it to read this prequel? Absolutely, after you’ve read at least the first book in the series. Blanks are filled in, the world building and character development are tightened, and the writing is solid. I’ve been on a role with self-published books lately, and I’m convinced this is one of the best of its genre. J.D. Evans, please put out the fourth book soon!
Really, the only reason this isn’t getting 5 stars is because, compared to the other two I’ve read, it’s just barely not as good, for my own tastes. And maybe because I was itching to hold a physical copy in my hands.
Is it worth it to read this prequel? Absolutely, after you’ve read at least the first book in the series. Blanks are filled in, the world building and character development are tightened, and the writing is solid. I’ve been on a role with self-published books lately, and I’m convinced this is one of the best of its genre. J.D. Evans, please put out the fourth book soon!
October 6, 2025
3rd read was the audiobook and OMG AMAZING!
2nd reread through and still my favorite! I actually read this one multiple time throughout the year but different parts. I would go back to my favorite chapters and read them. And so doing that over and over this year I have read it so much, I love this book!
This book and series has become my favorite. I tried so hard to read it slowly and savor it since the full series is not complete but once again I read half the book in 2 days and now I have wait to read more of J.D. Evans amazing work. Such amazing writing and I loved every moment of this book. She is a talented author and I will read anything she writes.
2nd reread through and still my favorite! I actually read this one multiple time throughout the year but different parts. I would go back to my favorite chapters and read them. And so doing that over and over this year I have read it so much, I love this book!
This book and series has become my favorite. I tried so hard to read it slowly and savor it since the full series is not complete but once again I read half the book in 2 days and now I have wait to read more of J.D. Evans amazing work. Such amazing writing and I loved every moment of this book. She is a talented author and I will read anything she writes.
July 12, 2024
Okay, that's it. These books are officially the only romances I'll ever need in my life. I am so so picky and they have EVERYTHING I look for. The banter, the pining, the deep and complex characters, the wholesome men and realistic women. And of course the magic system and intrigue driving the plot. Perfection 🤌💕
R&R will always be my favorite for personal reasons (Makram) but this is Evans' best writing. My heart is deceased, J.D. DECEASED.
R&R will always be my favorite for personal reasons (Makram) but this is Evans' best writing. My heart is deceased, J.D. DECEASED.
May 2, 2025
4.5 stars
I really enjoyed all the background and time with these characters, but prequels are tough. I reserve the right to change my opinion once I see how the things I learned here play into the rest of the series…but for now I’d say this was maybe a *little* too long. **update post book 4: prequel was so worth it and loved how everything played in, well done.**
But honestly still had a great time, and I love a villain origin story, and I’m loving this villain, so who knows
I really enjoyed all the background and time with these characters, but prequels are tough. I reserve the right to change my opinion once I see how the things I learned here play into the rest of the series…but for now I’d say this was maybe a *little* too long. **update post book 4: prequel was so worth it and loved how everything played in, well done.**
But honestly still had a great time, and I love a villain origin story, and I’m loving this villain, so who knows
November 5, 2022
Usually with prequels it’s like “Did we need this?” but in the case of Wind & Wildfire, we most certainly DID! It added SO much to the backdrop of the series and I’m actually really glad JD Evans made this a full novel instead of a novella. The backstory between Omar, Dilay, and Behram…..the DRAMA of it all, the ANGST of it all!!! If you’ve read books 1-3 you already know Behram needs to get got, but W&W just drives the point home even further like that man is so VILE (even with the tragic backstory).
Dilay and Omar….whew! Their relationship is so tender and fraught and fragile and just knowing what happens to them makes me so 🫠 Dilay and Omar a perfect match for each other – the way Dilay pushes him to be great, the way Omar is just….Omar. Sweet, shy, thoughtful, troubled Omar…he’s checking all the boxes! I think this is Evans’ slowest burn yet and it fits so well for these two like the tension is just so good.
GOD I need Ice & Ivy NOW!!!!!
Dilay and Omar….whew! Their relationship is so tender and fraught and fragile and just knowing what happens to them makes me so 🫠 Dilay and Omar a perfect match for each other – the way Dilay pushes him to be great, the way Omar is just….Omar. Sweet, shy, thoughtful, troubled Omar…he’s checking all the boxes! I think this is Evans’ slowest burn yet and it fits so well for these two like the tension is just so good.
GOD I need Ice & Ivy NOW!!!!!
November 30, 2024
We are so back. This is the prequel to Reign and Ruin where you follow Naime’s parents love story. While I typically have an aversion to reading prequels, this one I heard was good and now I can confirm that is! Knowing how things end for them later in the series, it is also: tragic asf.
You can read this prequel at any point, but I believe Evans recommends at least having read R&R first. I read it after book 2 (Storm and Shield) and I liked it that way.
I think Evans greatest strength is being able to write such distinct couples with unique love stories. Book #1 is essentially princess x rival nation prince, book #2 is spy x captain of the guard, and this prequel is university professor x prince. While all of these romances have a forbidden aspect to them, with a strong willed FMC and a secretly softy boi MMC, each character has such defining characteristics, abilities and personalities that you could never mix them up.
In the prequel you get to see Dilay fall in love with Omar, Omar fall in love with Dilay, and Behram completely fall from grace. The way Evans made me sympathize with who has for all intents and purposes been the villain of the story since book 1 was sick and twisted!!
I loved the student teacher dynamic Dilay and Omar had going on. We love magic lessons on control and intent in this house. I was giggling and kicking my feet as they say. There is also this whole “Omar can’t touch anyone without excruciating pain and invading their mind” thing going on and so there is NO touching ONLY pining for such a big chunk of this book. Simply junk food for the romantasy girlies.
Why no five star?
Reading Evans books without the excitement bias I had in book 1 with finding a Romantasy I didn’t hate has opened my eyes to the fact that her romance is a littleeee cheesy, not unbearably so but every once in a while I had to ignore a line or two. But what is romance without a little cheese nation honestly.
Under close inspection sometimes the plot and character motivations of this story fell apart a bit. Particularly Omar’s dad (the Sultan) needed some more fleshing out. He would be like “Obey. Me.” then Omar would be like “No.” and then the Sultan would just let Omar do what he wanted. Like you are literally the Sultan? Just stop you son with your entire retinue of guards? Idk
Also the amount of times that Dilay just gets summoned or brought forcefully to the palace felt stale after the 3rd time. We could have gotten more creative with how to get the main couple in the same space for interacting. Nitpicky I know but my bar for Evans is high what can I say.
Anyways I did still love this. It’s not perfect but it is a flavor of romantasy I’ve come to appreciate from Evans: earnest, mature and aching.
You can read this prequel at any point, but I believe Evans recommends at least having read R&R first. I read it after book 2 (Storm and Shield) and I liked it that way.
I think Evans greatest strength is being able to write such distinct couples with unique love stories. Book #1 is essentially princess x rival nation prince, book #2 is spy x captain of the guard, and this prequel is university professor x prince. While all of these romances have a forbidden aspect to them, with a strong willed FMC and a secretly softy boi MMC, each character has such defining characteristics, abilities and personalities that you could never mix them up.
In the prequel you get to see Dilay fall in love with Omar, Omar fall in love with Dilay, and Behram completely fall from grace. The way Evans made me sympathize with who has for all intents and purposes been the villain of the story since book 1 was sick and twisted!!
I loved the student teacher dynamic Dilay and Omar had going on. We love magic lessons on control and intent in this house. I was giggling and kicking my feet as they say. There is also this whole “Omar can’t touch anyone without excruciating pain and invading their mind” thing going on and so there is NO touching ONLY pining for such a big chunk of this book. Simply junk food for the romantasy girlies.
Why no five star?
Reading Evans books without the excitement bias I had in book 1 with finding a Romantasy I didn’t hate has opened my eyes to the fact that her romance is a littleeee cheesy, not unbearably so but every once in a while I had to ignore a line or two. But what is romance without a little cheese nation honestly.
Under close inspection sometimes the plot and character motivations of this story fell apart a bit. Particularly Omar’s dad (the Sultan) needed some more fleshing out. He would be like “Obey. Me.” then Omar would be like “No.” and then the Sultan would just let Omar do what he wanted. Like you are literally the Sultan? Just stop you son with your entire retinue of guards? Idk
Also the amount of times that Dilay just gets summoned or brought forcefully to the palace felt stale after the 3rd time. We could have gotten more creative with how to get the main couple in the same space for interacting. Nitpicky I know but my bar for Evans is high what can I say.
Anyways I did still love this. It’s not perfect but it is a flavor of romantasy I’ve come to appreciate from Evans: earnest, mature and aching.
September 30, 2024
3.25 stars
loved this prequel in the Mages of the Wheel series. seriously great (and underrated) series that every romantasy reader should give a chance!
loved this prequel in the Mages of the Wheel series. seriously great (and underrated) series that every romantasy reader should give a chance!
September 30, 2024
”I will trust that if you do not, you will know, every day of your pampered life, that a poor judge’s daughter was braver, and more determined than a prince. And did far more, with far less.”
My heart.
MY HEART.
The generational trauma. I ache for Behram. I ache for Omar. I ache for what the future holds for Dilay.
This is quite possibly one of the best prequels I’ve ever read.
(Best read immediately after Reign & Ruin, IMO.)
EDIT: I've created a glossary and concepts guide here for readers! I love this series so much and hope you do too!
My heart.
MY HEART.
The generational trauma. I ache for Behram. I ache for Omar. I ache for what the future holds for Dilay.
This is quite possibly one of the best prequels I’ve ever read.
(Best read immediately after Reign & Ruin, IMO.)
EDIT: I've created a glossary and concepts guide here for readers! I love this series so much and hope you do too!
April 20, 2025
I'm a huge fan of JD Evans' writing and of the Mages of the Wheel series, of which this is the prelude. Such brilliant world crafting and character development. The magic system is so interesting, and the romance is impeccable.
The thing I love the most about Wind & Windfire is the characters and the exploration of human nature, done thoughtfully and gently with a lot of sympathy. Dilay and Omar are so refreshing and easy to care for. Dilay is a smart and talented mage working as a professor at the university. The only woman to have managed to successfully stake her place there so far. She's principled and brave, scarily competent, kind, and with a cheeky sense of humour. Omar is the prince in grave need of guidance with his magic. So keen to help his people and yet not doing the best job of helping himself.
JD Evans is great at leading us through the political landscape her characters navigate and in such an interesting way. She is equally skilled at creating a believable romance with such yearning, it's absolutely captivating. This book gave me butterflies. It made me feel joyful at times and absolutely outraged at others. It was awesome. I also loved the emphasis on the importance of education and making it accessible to all. I used to be a teacher. I am 100% here for Dilay's world view and efforts to improve the world around her.
I made a boo boo and read Wind & Wildfire after Reign & Ruin, but it turned out OK. I listened to the audiobook, and it was really well done.
The thing I love the most about Wind & Windfire is the characters and the exploration of human nature, done thoughtfully and gently with a lot of sympathy. Dilay and Omar are so refreshing and easy to care for. Dilay is a smart and talented mage working as a professor at the university. The only woman to have managed to successfully stake her place there so far. She's principled and brave, scarily competent, kind, and with a cheeky sense of humour. Omar is the prince in grave need of guidance with his magic. So keen to help his people and yet not doing the best job of helping himself.
JD Evans is great at leading us through the political landscape her characters navigate and in such an interesting way. She is equally skilled at creating a believable romance with such yearning, it's absolutely captivating. This book gave me butterflies. It made me feel joyful at times and absolutely outraged at others. It was awesome. I also loved the emphasis on the importance of education and making it accessible to all. I used to be a teacher. I am 100% here for Dilay's world view and efforts to improve the world around her.
I made a boo boo and read Wind & Wildfire after Reign & Ruin, but it turned out OK. I listened to the audiobook, and it was really well done.
October 25, 2023
This prequel is the story of how Naime's parents met; Evans recommends you read it after the first book to get the most out of it.
The eldest prince and heir to the throne, Omar Sabri, seeks the help of Dilay Akar, an instructor at the university, in controlling his unpredictable veritor magic; where he can sift through other people's minds to verify whether they are telling the truth. In the course of their lessons and time together, they of course, fall in love.
Although I felt the relationship build-up was believable and that they both actually liked each other in this one, as opposed to Cassian and Amara in the third book, it did feel completely lacking in any chemistry and I felt no emotional connection to any sentimental moments between them. (Sorry Omar, looks like your daughter's relationship trumped yours.) I actually got bored in the few parts that they had physical contact and put it down a few times in their sex scene at the end. I also felt a bit weird about imagining them have sex, given that I'm already close to Naime.
Personality-wise, I felt they complimented each other nicely; Dilay being headstrong, assertive, a fighter and compassionate to those in need, and Omar, calm, reserved, a thinker but equally compassionate to his people. They matched well in their desire to help the poor and in dreams of what their city could become. However, to do so on Omar's part required standing up to his tyrannical father, and although understandable that Omar is terrified of him and he eventually did in the end, I felt that he should have done so much more. It should have taken more than what he did to earn Dilay's respect.
The most part of the book is their relationship building (I really missed the epic fantasy element, it just heightens the stories to so much more). I wish that the parts that were present in her lessons actually showed more of the lessons and the magic learned, it felt that no sooner had they started, then they finished. Outside of their relationship, Dilay is helping her father who is a judge, to find laws that will help him stop Semih Kadir (Behram's father) from taking control of the merchant's guild. Although mildly interesting, it didn't really feel urgent enough to me and felt more of a low-stake conflict, even though the outcome was serious and was highly important to Dilay.
Three quarters of the story held my interest and was likeable enough, the last few chapters just completely flopped, I felt they were so unrealistic. The fact that Omar somehow managed to get his father to acquiesce to his marrying Dilay when he had been betrothed to a noble of a more suitable station not so long ago. It would have made more sense that the Sultan just chose another appropriate woman? That Dilay's parents just accepted it, even though her father was deeply against the Sultan? The fact that all conflict seemed to die out without a trace as soon as the pair of them managed to have sex. And there's the sex itself; one, that either of them would do so with the expectations and duties bound on them, and had in their minds that it would never really work out between them due to it, and two, that the Sultana would allow them to spend time alone together in his room after just witnessing the pair of them canoodling and not being particularly impressed by it. Uncharacteristically for Evans, there were just a lot of parts in the end that didn't make sense unfortunately.
I appreciate the work and effort Evans puts in to all her stories, into making all the relationship dynamics unique, with believable interactions, thoughts and feelings. However, this just slightly missed for me, I feel this rating is more a 2.75/5; not one I'd be in a rush to read again really.
The eldest prince and heir to the throne, Omar Sabri, seeks the help of Dilay Akar, an instructor at the university, in controlling his unpredictable veritor magic; where he can sift through other people's minds to verify whether they are telling the truth. In the course of their lessons and time together, they of course, fall in love.
Although I felt the relationship build-up was believable and that they both actually liked each other in this one, as opposed to Cassian and Amara in the third book, it did feel completely lacking in any chemistry and I felt no emotional connection to any sentimental moments between them. (Sorry Omar, looks like your daughter's relationship trumped yours.) I actually got bored in the few parts that they had physical contact and put it down a few times in their sex scene at the end. I also felt a bit weird about imagining them have sex, given that I'm already close to Naime.
Personality-wise, I felt they complimented each other nicely; Dilay being headstrong, assertive, a fighter and compassionate to those in need, and Omar, calm, reserved, a thinker but equally compassionate to his people. They matched well in their desire to help the poor and in dreams of what their city could become. However, to do so on Omar's part required standing up to his tyrannical father, and although understandable that Omar is terrified of him and he eventually did in the end, I felt that he should have done so much more. It should have taken more than what he did to earn Dilay's respect.
The most part of the book is their relationship building (I really missed the epic fantasy element, it just heightens the stories to so much more). I wish that the parts that were present in her lessons actually showed more of the lessons and the magic learned, it felt that no sooner had they started, then they finished. Outside of their relationship, Dilay is helping her father who is a judge, to find laws that will help him stop Semih Kadir (Behram's father) from taking control of the merchant's guild. Although mildly interesting, it didn't really feel urgent enough to me and felt more of a low-stake conflict, even though the outcome was serious and was highly important to Dilay.
Three quarters of the story held my interest and was likeable enough, the last few chapters just completely flopped, I felt they were so unrealistic. The fact that Omar somehow managed to get his father to acquiesce to his marrying Dilay when he had been betrothed to a noble of a more suitable station not so long ago. It would have made more sense that the Sultan just chose another appropriate woman? That Dilay's parents just accepted it, even though her father was deeply against the Sultan? The fact that all conflict seemed to die out without a trace as soon as the pair of them managed to have sex. And there's the sex itself; one, that either of them would do so with the expectations and duties bound on them, and had in their minds that it would never really work out between them due to it, and two, that the Sultana would allow them to spend time alone together in his room after just witnessing the pair of them canoodling and not being particularly impressed by it. Uncharacteristically for Evans, there were just a lot of parts in the end that didn't make sense unfortunately.
I appreciate the work and effort Evans puts in to all her stories, into making all the relationship dynamics unique, with believable interactions, thoughts and feelings. However, this just slightly missed for me, I feel this rating is more a 2.75/5; not one I'd be in a rush to read again really.
April 22, 2024
Prequels are an inherently tough sell since we all go into them pre-spoiled. And this one is made worse by the knowledge of the fates of the 2 MCs.
Despite all of that, though, this book has been my favorite of the series.
I loved seeing the idealism that will take root in the next generation. All of those small choices are a promise of things to come. Also, the romance here is fantastic. Plus I will never not love a story with a good academia plot line.
Watching Omar Sabri slowly destroy himself was painful but it was all worth it when he came out like: ”Who is gunna check me, boo?” 🔥
Despite all of that, though, this book has been my favorite of the series.
I loved seeing the idealism that will take root in the next generation. All of those small choices are a promise of things to come. Also, the romance here is fantastic. Plus I will never not love a story with a good academia plot line.
Watching Omar Sabri slowly destroy himself was painful but it was all worth it when he came out like: ”Who is gunna check me, boo?” 🔥
May 17, 2023
This is a prequel novel to the main series and gives a fascinating insight to the history of some of the characters we know and love (well hate) from book 1.
As always the author writes with flair, and beautiful prose.
The character dialogue is fantastic and is the main reason, the author is now an automatic "must read" for me
As always the author writes with flair, and beautiful prose.
The character dialogue is fantastic and is the main reason, the author is now an automatic "must read" for me
August 21, 2024
An absolute banger of a prequel to the Wheel of Mages series. This isn't your tiny novella that authors sometimes pass off as a prequel. Wind & wildfire is a full stunning tale in itself. The story gives us Dilay and Omar, and the awful but relatable villian in Behram. He is a vivid reminder that "love" can become twisted and possessive when it's unrequited.
I love the slow burn romance that only Jenn can write so well. It makes the relationship deeper and have a life of its own. This prequel fills in some backstory from book 1, Reign & Ruin, and provides more history of the world and magic system. Loved the whole book and the epilogue was my fav.
My rating is 4.5 rounded for GR
I love the slow burn romance that only Jenn can write so well. It makes the relationship deeper and have a life of its own. This prequel fills in some backstory from book 1, Reign & Ruin, and provides more history of the world and magic system. Loved the whole book and the epilogue was my fav.
My rating is 4.5 rounded for GR
October 29, 2025
I absolutely adore this series. J.D. Evans has a real talent for crafting stories that feel both rich and effortless – full of heart, depth, and quiet power. The female leads are consistently brilliant: complex, capable, and deeply human, and the slow-burn romances are a joy to watch unfold. There’s such a satisfying subtlety to the writing – every emotional beat and every detail is woven in with real care.
The balance is spot on too: just enough tension and jeopardy to keep you gripped, but never so much that it feels overwhelming or stressful. They're the kind of stories you sink into completely – comforting and compelling at the same time – they have become my treat.
The balance is spot on too: just enough tension and jeopardy to keep you gripped, but never so much that it feels overwhelming or stressful. They're the kind of stories you sink into completely – comforting and compelling at the same time – they have become my treat.
July 30, 2022
“𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘦. 𝘌𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘪𝘧 𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧, 𝘐 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘈𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴.”
I teared up just reading that line. Wind & Wildfire is a prequel/prelude to Mages of the Wheel and tells the story of younger days of the tragic figure of Sultan Omar, his near-commoner wife Dilay, and his best friend-turned-enemy Behram. We know Omar as Sultana Naime’s troubled father who is suffering from the consequences of his powers as a Veritor. I did not know if I needed this story told, but it definitely cast him in a new even more tragic light.
Wind & Wildfire is probably the most personal of the four books so far, with much of the story and conflict largely confined to the three primary characters. I feel like I would have enjoyed the story more had I not already known how it would end. It does feel like the storytelling was constrained because there was already an ending that could not be deviated from and the future has already been cast (in the three main books) and could not be strayed from. The book does still have some new revelations including why the Grand Vizier is the primary enemy of the Sabris.
This book features the series’ first love triangle, but it lacked the tension since we already know who ends up together. I did enjoy the romance still, but I did feel like the spice level was lower (maybe that was intentional because we know these characters as parents and it’s somehow awkward reading about them in that situation).
Wind & Wildfire further expands the world of the Mages of the Wheel and is a nice addition that provides answers to some lingering questions.
I teared up just reading that line. Wind & Wildfire is a prequel/prelude to Mages of the Wheel and tells the story of younger days of the tragic figure of Sultan Omar, his near-commoner wife Dilay, and his best friend-turned-enemy Behram. We know Omar as Sultana Naime’s troubled father who is suffering from the consequences of his powers as a Veritor. I did not know if I needed this story told, but it definitely cast him in a new even more tragic light.
Wind & Wildfire is probably the most personal of the four books so far, with much of the story and conflict largely confined to the three primary characters. I feel like I would have enjoyed the story more had I not already known how it would end. It does feel like the storytelling was constrained because there was already an ending that could not be deviated from and the future has already been cast (in the three main books) and could not be strayed from. The book does still have some new revelations including why the Grand Vizier is the primary enemy of the Sabris.
This book features the series’ first love triangle, but it lacked the tension since we already know who ends up together. I did enjoy the romance still, but I did feel like the spice level was lower (maybe that was intentional because we know these characters as parents and it’s somehow awkward reading about them in that situation).
Wind & Wildfire further expands the world of the Mages of the Wheel and is a nice addition that provides answers to some lingering questions.
April 23, 2025
oh the book hangover i'll be receiving from this entire series is gonna be MONSTROUS 😭 😭 i was advised to read this before the fourth book because apparently, it's even more emotionally devastating (which literally HOW??? jesus fucking christ is it not enough already 😭 😭😭 😭???). so i i'll be waiting until my reread sometime this summer to give my full thoughts.
but in the meantime...
i am so fucking devastated because seeing that this is a prequel to the main series, we already know how their story ends by the 1st book. my sisters were trying to console me by screaming at me that they’re fictional and hiding my kindle bc of how hard i was weeping 😭😭😭 i genuinely felt light headed and weak for how much i was crying! just know mrs. evans, i will be forwarding u my therapy bills and suing for emotional distress!!!!!!!
but in the meantime...
i am so fucking devastated because seeing that this is a prequel to the main series, we already know how their story ends by the 1st book. my sisters were trying to console me by screaming at me that they’re fictional and hiding my kindle bc of how hard i was weeping 😭😭😭 i genuinely felt light headed and weak for how much i was crying! just know mrs. evans, i will be forwarding u my therapy bills and suing for emotional distress!!!!!!!
July 29, 2022
4.5*
A complete delight, which took me less than 24h to read! Goodbye reading slump (fingers crossed..)
Enjoyed the magic system, the world building, the strong female lead being true to herself and her abilities.
I’ll be purchasing the trilogy as soon as my self imposed book buying ban ends eventually (teetering tbr piles……..)
A complete delight, which took me less than 24h to read! Goodbye reading slump (fingers crossed..)
Enjoyed the magic system, the world building, the strong female lead being true to herself and her abilities.
I’ll be purchasing the trilogy as soon as my self imposed book buying ban ends eventually (teetering tbr piles……..)
August 26, 2023
3.5/5 Rounded up because I love this romantasy series!
Glad I got this in before book four (though I probably should have read it closer to book 1).
Glad I got this in before book four (though I probably should have read it closer to book 1).
July 6, 2024
This is an amazing fantasy set in a land where powerful (and sometimes brutal) magic and societal divides shape the lives of the people who live there. The story revolves around Dilay, a lower noble who trains the wealthy in magic while secretly defying the Sultan’s oppressive laws at night. Omar is the future sultan with terrifying magical abilities. When Omar seeks Dilay's help to control his power, their collaboration sparks a series of events that promise to change their world forever.
I had such a great time with this book, especially tandem reading it alongside the narration. The characters are vivid, with Omar and Dilay's romance being a highlight. Their relationship transitions beautifully from a mildly antagonistic dynamic to a deeply forbidden love, and it’s written with such elegance and emotion.
The setting is richly detailed. I always love non-Western-inspired fantasy. I will say that I would have loved to see POC narrators (I'm not completely sure but I do not believe they are) take on these roles for the audiobook especially because there are accents used. The complex relationships and intricate societal structures added depth to the story. The magic system, with its various forms and manners of control (the mechanics were really entertaining), is fascinating and well-explored. I’m eager to see how it evolves in the subsequent books.
Dilay's bravery and determination stood out and make her an inspiring character. Her journey, intertwined with Omar's struggle to reconcile his monstrous reputation with his humanity, was so compelling. This book exceeded my expectations and left me eager to dive into the next books in the series. A beautifully crafted story that combines romance, magic, and social commentary in a captivating way.
I had such a great time with this book, especially tandem reading it alongside the narration. The characters are vivid, with Omar and Dilay's romance being a highlight. Their relationship transitions beautifully from a mildly antagonistic dynamic to a deeply forbidden love, and it’s written with such elegance and emotion.
The setting is richly detailed. I always love non-Western-inspired fantasy. I will say that I would have loved to see POC narrators (I'm not completely sure but I do not believe they are) take on these roles for the audiobook especially because there are accents used. The complex relationships and intricate societal structures added depth to the story. The magic system, with its various forms and manners of control (the mechanics were really entertaining), is fascinating and well-explored. I’m eager to see how it evolves in the subsequent books.
Dilay's bravery and determination stood out and make her an inspiring character. Her journey, intertwined with Omar's struggle to reconcile his monstrous reputation with his humanity, was so compelling. This book exceeded my expectations and left me eager to dive into the next books in the series. A beautifully crafted story that combines romance, magic, and social commentary in a captivating way.
March 21, 2025
4.5 Sterne
Nachdem ich Reign and Ruin so geliebt habe, habe ich auf die Rezensionen gehört und bevor ich die Serie weiter lese, die Geschichte der Eltern von Naime gelesen. Das Buch war sehr gut. Dilay und Omars Geschichte war einfach sehr schön. Sie ist die erste weibliche Professorin an der Uni, er der nächste Sultan sucht jemanden der ihm helfen kann seine Kraft in den Griff zu bekommen (er ist theoretisch ein Luftmagier, kann aber in die Köpfe der Menschen schauen und wird deshalb dazu genutzt bei Gerichtsprozessen die Wahrheit herauszufinden, was aber einen großen Preis für ihn hat).
Leider keine "ganzen" 5 Sterne, da ich mich echt immer noch frage, warum eine Person die in Reign and Ruin der Antagonist war, hier an die Macht kam. Außerdem hatte ich mir gedacht, dass es hier ein love triangle gibt, aber nö. Eine Person dachte nur er wäre in einem Lovetriangle.
Nachdem ich Reign and Ruin so geliebt habe, habe ich auf die Rezensionen gehört und bevor ich die Serie weiter lese, die Geschichte der Eltern von Naime gelesen. Das Buch war sehr gut. Dilay und Omars Geschichte war einfach sehr schön. Sie ist die erste weibliche Professorin an der Uni, er der nächste Sultan sucht jemanden der ihm helfen kann seine Kraft in den Griff zu bekommen (er ist theoretisch ein Luftmagier, kann aber in die Köpfe der Menschen schauen und wird deshalb dazu genutzt bei Gerichtsprozessen die Wahrheit herauszufinden, was aber einen großen Preis für ihn hat).
Leider keine "ganzen" 5 Sterne, da ich mich echt immer noch frage, warum eine Person die in Reign and Ruin der Antagonist war, hier an die Macht kam. Außerdem hatte ich mir gedacht, dass es hier ein love triangle gibt, aber nö. Eine Person dachte nur er wäre in einem Lovetriangle.
July 5, 2025
Ugh 🥹🥹
I think about these characters all the time in my daily life. If that doesn’t tell you enough idk what will. I loved reading about Dilay and Omar especially knowing their daughter Naime’s story already but only seeing Omar as his old man self :/. This was a love triangle done right, and we all know how badly it can go wrong. She continuously creates characters that compliment each other so beautifully.
Giving backstory to Behram as well is helpful as I’m sure his antics will be hell this next book. This is a novella but a powerful and necessary one, with quite the lovely love story thrown in. Nothing bad to say ✨✨✨🌠🌌
I think about these characters all the time in my daily life. If that doesn’t tell you enough idk what will. I loved reading about Dilay and Omar especially knowing their daughter Naime’s story already but only seeing Omar as his old man self :/. This was a love triangle done right, and we all know how badly it can go wrong. She continuously creates characters that compliment each other so beautifully.
Giving backstory to Behram as well is helpful as I’m sure his antics will be hell this next book. This is a novella but a powerful and necessary one, with quite the lovely love story thrown in. Nothing bad to say ✨✨✨🌠🌌
May 4, 2025
As someone who absolutely devoured Reign & Ruin, I feel like this book itched a similar scratch for me, and I really enjoyed getting to explore more of the background motivations of a lot of the characters we already know, especially Behram.
However, I feel like something just didn’t click with the story itself towards the end of the book for me, personally. The conflict in the book seemed too easily wrapped up, and some aspects of the plot seemed slightly unbelievable.
I still absolutely love Dilay and really enjoyed her story, and will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
However, I feel like something just didn’t click with the story itself towards the end of the book for me, personally. The conflict in the book seemed too easily wrapped up, and some aspects of the plot seemed slightly unbelievable.
I still absolutely love Dilay and really enjoyed her story, and will definitely be reading the rest of the series.
May 14, 2025
wow. jd evans sure knows how to write a book. it was so nice to get a background on some of the main characters in the other books and see how everything kind of played out. such a beautiful love story but sad as i know how it ends as this is a prequel to what ive already read. i’m just so in love with these books i wish everyone would read them.
August 17, 2025
La trama del sindicato no tiene ningún sentido y está muy pobre su desarrollo. Por lo demás lo esperable aunque al ser precuela sabes como terminan y te rompe el corazón.
May 31, 2024
This book managed to simultaneously ensnare me and break my heart. It’s the story of Naime’s parents and behram kadir and what transpired between them. I loved the characters, even behram for the absolute sincerity in which they are written. Not everyone can come out of their grief and trauma. Dilay and Omar’s meeting and eventual relationship is very believable and while you are always rooting for them, you do know that they do end up together, having read the first book of the series. That in no way dampens your excitement to meet these characters, learn their journey, personal growth and hardships they had to overcome.
The story ends with the birth of Naime and while we do know to some extent what happens after, I am distraught that we won’t get to meet Dilay again in the story. She is such a force of nature, working on what she thinks is the right path and courageous to walk it. I want to know more about Omar and Dilay’s relationship in the next 24 years till we meet Naime..how did she die? Where is rest of Omar and dilay’s family? What happened to them that Naime is almost all alone by the time we meet her. I wished we could meet Dilay and Omar in their prime again with all the court intrigue they had to navigate while working with Omar’s veritor power & consequences. I will miss them.
And finally, Omar’s confession “I will love you until the day I die. Even if I do not remember myself, I will remember you. Always“ hits really hard knowing what’s going to happen to them…Ah my heart ❤️
The story ends with the birth of Naime and while we do know to some extent what happens after, I am distraught that we won’t get to meet Dilay again in the story. She is such a force of nature, working on what she thinks is the right path and courageous to walk it. I want to know more about Omar and Dilay’s relationship in the next 24 years till we meet Naime..how did she die? Where is rest of Omar and dilay’s family? What happened to them that Naime is almost all alone by the time we meet her. I wished we could meet Dilay and Omar in their prime again with all the court intrigue they had to navigate while working with Omar’s veritor power & consequences. I will miss them.
And finally, Omar’s confession “I will love you until the day I die. Even if I do not remember myself, I will remember you. Always“ hits really hard knowing what’s going to happen to them…Ah my heart ❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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