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Where Oceans Burn #1
Where Oceans Burn
With these three virtues, we shall rise. With these three, we shall conquer.
Truth. Honor. Blood.
To my people, the sky-reigning Empyreans, Intention Day is sacred... To me, it’s the day my carefully crafted lie crumbles and my truth gives way to my ruin. The intense power surging through my veins is revealed, immediately coveted by those eager to exploit me for what they deem a greater good. If they have their way, the future I long for will be ripped away. But I am a warrior born to fly. To fight. Not to be caged and controlled.
The great scale of the goddess Neera has tipped out of my favor. The pans teeter between weighty punishment and deadly opportunity. My choices? Capture my most formidable enemy before next Intention Day, or forfeit my wings.
But life’s loftiest plans are often a breath away from disaster, and tragedy strikes as unpredictably as a bolt of lightning. When I find myself at the mercy of my greatest enemy, the terror known as the Shark of the Sea, the monster who killed the person I loved most, I accept my fate. My death. But the Shark does not lash out in revenge for all I’ve done. He tells me his true name is Crest. And while he calls me a Scourge, he honors his orders to guard me.
Forced together, Crest reveals that the truth only exists in the place between our perspectives and shares his hope to garner peace before the land is further soaked with the blood of sky and sea. The longer I am among his kind, the more I wonder if he might be right. Could an alliance be the salvation of both our peoples?
I am Elira, great Scourge of the Sky.
He is Crest, cunning Shark of the Sea.
Together... we could be unstoppable.
Where Oceans Burn is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, Holly Black's The Cruel Prince, Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass, Elisa Kova's Married to Magic series, and Romeo and Juliet retellings...
Truth. Honor. Blood.
To my people, the sky-reigning Empyreans, Intention Day is sacred... To me, it’s the day my carefully crafted lie crumbles and my truth gives way to my ruin. The intense power surging through my veins is revealed, immediately coveted by those eager to exploit me for what they deem a greater good. If they have their way, the future I long for will be ripped away. But I am a warrior born to fly. To fight. Not to be caged and controlled.
The great scale of the goddess Neera has tipped out of my favor. The pans teeter between weighty punishment and deadly opportunity. My choices? Capture my most formidable enemy before next Intention Day, or forfeit my wings.
But life’s loftiest plans are often a breath away from disaster, and tragedy strikes as unpredictably as a bolt of lightning. When I find myself at the mercy of my greatest enemy, the terror known as the Shark of the Sea, the monster who killed the person I loved most, I accept my fate. My death. But the Shark does not lash out in revenge for all I’ve done. He tells me his true name is Crest. And while he calls me a Scourge, he honors his orders to guard me.
Forced together, Crest reveals that the truth only exists in the place between our perspectives and shares his hope to garner peace before the land is further soaked with the blood of sky and sea. The longer I am among his kind, the more I wonder if he might be right. Could an alliance be the salvation of both our peoples?
I am Elira, great Scourge of the Sky.
He is Crest, cunning Shark of the Sea.
Together... we could be unstoppable.
Where Oceans Burn is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, Holly Black's The Cruel Prince, Sarah J. Maas's Throne of Glass, Elisa Kova's Married to Magic series, and Romeo and Juliet retellings...
550 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2022
676 people are currently reading
15112 people want to read
About the author
Casey L. Bond
60 books1,672 followersRONE Award-winning author Casey Bond lives on a rural farm in West Virginia with her husband and their two beautiful daughters. She writes phoenixes – gloriously flawed and morally gray characters that fiercely rise from the ashes of their circumstances.
Worldbuilding is one of her favorite pastimes. She thinks thunderstorms are better than coffee and that watching a meteor shower is the closest thing to magic you might ever see. She’s a firm believer that every amazing book needs a world you want to wrap yourself in, a character you want to win, and a love you would fight for.
Casey is the author of When Wishes Bleed, Gravebriar, House of Eclipses, and Where Oceans Burn.
@authorcaseybond on social media sites.
Worldbuilding is one of her favorite pastimes. She thinks thunderstorms are better than coffee and that watching a meteor shower is the closest thing to magic you might ever see. She’s a firm believer that every amazing book needs a world you want to wrap yourself in, a character you want to win, and a love you would fight for.
Casey is the author of When Wishes Bleed, Gravebriar, House of Eclipses, and Where Oceans Burn.
@authorcaseybond on social media sites.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 298 reviews
September 4, 2022
Bond has a created a world so rich, you can taste the brine of the sea on your tongue and feel the crash of lightning in your bones. These characters will claim your heart with their story, break it with their sorrow, mend it with their affection, and bolster it with their hope.
I never wanted it to end.
One scene in particular had my heart aching for the character as I saw their eyes open and the truth to sink in and the remorse to take root. The character growth in that moment was epically done.
Yes, I wanted to smack Elira a bit at times, but she is one of those characters with such potential—and NEED—for growth. I want so much for her to get the happily ever after she never allowed herself to dream of. I need the villains to pay for their evil. I need the war to be ended. I need the broken relationships to be healed. And I need The Salt’s vision to be true.
Also… Crest is everything you want in a dark-haired, protector, hero love interest. And he has sneaked his way into my top 10. (Yes, I collect a lot… like all fantasy romance readers.)
I never wanted it to end.
One scene in particular had my heart aching for the character as I saw their eyes open and the truth to sink in and the remorse to take root. The character growth in that moment was epically done.
Yes, I wanted to smack Elira a bit at times, but she is one of those characters with such potential—and NEED—for growth. I want so much for her to get the happily ever after she never allowed herself to dream of. I need the villains to pay for their evil. I need the war to be ended. I need the broken relationships to be healed. And I need The Salt’s vision to be true.
Also… Crest is everything you want in a dark-haired, protector, hero love interest. And he has sneaked his way into my top 10. (Yes, I collect a lot… like all fantasy romance readers.)
April 26, 2023
- enemies to lovers
- born enemies
- do whats right
- kinda grumpy sunshine
- found family
- secrets and betrayal
- slight cliffhanger
I'm going to be honest and say the first 50ish pages were slow and I was worried.
Then 💥 it all imploded and I couldn't stop.
This is me reading this book:
🤔😠😱🫠😳🥹🥰🥺🥴
There is so much depth to the story and characters and every time I thought I knew what was happening, I was wrong and floored!
I love Elira and Crest and The Salt and I'm ordering the hardcovers and the special editions.
I'm opening Where Skies Fall RIGHT NOW!
GO READ THIS.
- born enemies
- do whats right
- kinda grumpy sunshine
- found family
- secrets and betrayal
- slight cliffhanger
I'm going to be honest and say the first 50ish pages were slow and I was worried.
Then 💥 it all imploded and I couldn't stop.
This is me reading this book:
🤔😠😱🫠😳🥹🥰🥺🥴
There is so much depth to the story and characters and every time I thought I knew what was happening, I was wrong and floored!
I love Elira and Crest and The Salt and I'm ordering the hardcovers and the special editions.
I'm opening Where Skies Fall RIGHT NOW!
GO READ THIS.
March 7, 2023
Mmm ok, so this starts off really slow, it doesn’t actually start to get decent until after the first 200 pages or so. Also not really feeling a lot of chemistry between our fmc and mmc. This is supposed to be enemies to lovers but it really didn’t feel like it, I mean apart from the odd dirty look and snippy comment that’s about as passionate as it gets.
I did enjoy the world in which this is set and the plot, although mildly entertaining it is kinda predictable.
Don’t know if ill continue with the series..
I did enjoy the world in which this is set and the plot, although mildly entertaining it is kinda predictable.
Don’t know if ill continue with the series..
March 6, 2024
I enjoyed the world building in this a lot. The first 200 pages dragged quite a bit after the initial set up though. I wouldn't call this an enemies to lovers vibes even though technically it is. It is definitely slow burn though. I liked the romance and the implications of it all, but something was missing just a bit for me.
Watch my full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQCG3...
Watch my full review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQCG3...
October 13, 2022
Absolutely magnificent! The world building and characters within this story is like no other I have read before. Casey Bond kept me in a trance from beginning to end. I loved every bit of this book. In this book we read about the sky vs sea characters and I for one am so in love. I think the “shark” is definitely my favorite character out of them all. There’s so many twists and turns and just when you think you have things figured out, nope things take a turn and it keeps you on your toes at every turn of each page. I can’t wait to see what the sequel has in store for us.
October 26, 2023
I feel like the idea of this book was good but it really lacked in execution. The world building was just okay. The character development of the FMC and relationship building between other characters felt rushed and unrealistic. I couldn’t really bring myself to care about any of the characters. There were also some continuity issues that I couldn’t get past and plot holes that didn’t make sense. Will I read book 2? Maybe but only out of curiosity.
September 20, 2023
Preface
Where Oceans Burn suffered from a boring beginning surrounding its world building. Now that I finished the series I know WHY it was necessary. I just wish the author had found a more entertaining way to do it. It was about 200 pages of mindless chatter when I just. Wanted. To. Get. GOING.
After that it was a lot better. I’m glad I didn’t give up.
The enemies to lovers transition was interesting. It was the first time I seen the trope handled like this. It made lots of sense. Eliria (h) was not mad or defensive, she was broken and understood the price of war. While Crest (H) was devastated at the harm she had caused to his people and still understood that in her life there had been no compassion and that he would have killed her if given the chance just as easily as she killed back.
I adore all the secondary characters (except Nori and North those can go jump off a cliff for all I care). I’m definitely picked at how the war plot is going to be resolved.
————————————————————————————
RATINGS:
Plot : 2.5 📚📚💫 Some + some more.
World Building(Immersion): 3 🌎🌎🌎 Submerged. I feel like re-reading this duology at the beach someday.
Angst : 2.5 👹👹💫 Bitting your tongue. I felt sad for eagle girl. And Shark boy too.
Funniness: 2.5 🌝🌝💫 I snorted.
Scariness: ❎ Not scary.
Romance: 2.5 💖💖💫It was there but it was underwhelming. Even if cute. I SEE LOADS OF POTENTIAL THOUGH.
Spice: ❎ No spice.
Goriness: 3 🫀🫀🫀 Someone died and I got to see what happened.
Sadness: 2 🥲🥲 a Pang that did not go away immediately.
Overall star rating : 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 It was good, it was almost great.
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨MILD SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨
The Chapters:
▫️The fated mates thing hit me with a pick-up truck and didn’t even get out to see if I was alive. It was torturous and satisfying. Can’t wait to be absolutely wreaked by it next book.
▫️ I do have some qualms… their first kiss was because of a truth or dare challenge? How silly. I needed something… more.
Romance Safety:
Safe. The sea people have mates (called lacunas) the sea gods reveals it to them when they are ready. Crest (H) is Eliria’s mate (lacuna). He doesn’t even look at anyone before that happened. There OW drama though. This other girl really wants Crest (or his brother before he got a Lacuna himself). She really embarrassed herself trying to get him to pick her. It’s awful but at least I had some satisfaction seeing him reject her (muahahahha).
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨🚨 SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨🚨
Some ( Very Random) Moments of Notice Along With (Sometimes) My Very Live Reactions Straight From My Notes App to You:
📌 The wind toyed with his hair and I realized I’d never seen it dry. The Shark was tall, just as I’d suspected, given the height of his trident. His tan body was lean but muscled, honed from the strength it took to skillfully cut through the heavy ocean. The copper scales hugging the muscled contours of his legs gleamed like the metal of his trident. He wore a short garment tied around his waist
Got it. Surfer boy with scales.
📌 I was thinking that a young woman should be able to do what you just did. Most people are good, Elira. But the bad ones are awful.”
📌 It will be placed on his shoulder and stretch to cover his heart,” she announced.
Crest inhaled sharply. The artist’s eyes glittered.
ouhhhhhh
What do you mean? What’s up with the reaction? 🤨
📌 This was a sacred and special day for him. I had a feeling the feathers on his chest had ruined it in some way.
📌 The arrows were fletched with feathers of every shade, but none more dominant than blue gray.
It’s like having a terminator for dinner.
🤖 “Sorry for killing your whole family… pass the salt?”
📌 “Why?” he demanded. “What was so wrong with it?”
It wasn’t wrong at all. It was right. It was perfect. And it would all be snatched away whether I willed it or not.
Where Oceans Burn suffered from a boring beginning surrounding its world building. Now that I finished the series I know WHY it was necessary. I just wish the author had found a more entertaining way to do it. It was about 200 pages of mindless chatter when I just. Wanted. To. Get. GOING.
After that it was a lot better. I’m glad I didn’t give up.
The enemies to lovers transition was interesting. It was the first time I seen the trope handled like this. It made lots of sense. Eliria (h) was not mad or defensive, she was broken and understood the price of war. While Crest (H) was devastated at the harm she had caused to his people and still understood that in her life there had been no compassion and that he would have killed her if given the chance just as easily as she killed back.
I adore all the secondary characters (except Nori and North those can go jump off a cliff for all I care). I’m definitely picked at how the war plot is going to be resolved.
————————————————————————————
RATINGS:
Plot : 2.5 📚📚💫 Some + some more.
World Building(Immersion): 3 🌎🌎🌎 Submerged. I feel like re-reading this duology at the beach someday.
Angst : 2.5 👹👹💫 Bitting your tongue. I felt sad for eagle girl. And Shark boy too.
Funniness: 2.5 🌝🌝💫 I snorted.
Scariness: ❎ Not scary.
Romance: 2.5 💖💖💫It was there but it was underwhelming. Even if cute. I SEE LOADS OF POTENTIAL THOUGH.
Spice: ❎ No spice.
Goriness: 3 🫀🫀🫀 Someone died and I got to see what happened.
Sadness: 2 🥲🥲 a Pang that did not go away immediately.
Overall star rating : 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 It was good, it was almost great.
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨MILD SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨
The Chapters:
▫️The fated mates thing hit me with a pick-up truck and didn’t even get out to see if I was alive. It was torturous and satisfying. Can’t wait to be absolutely wreaked by it next book.
▫️ I do have some qualms… their first kiss was because of a truth or dare challenge? How silly. I needed something… more.
Romance Safety:
Safe. The sea people have mates (called lacunas) the sea gods reveals it to them when they are ready. Crest (H) is Eliria’s mate (lacuna). He doesn’t even look at anyone before that happened. There OW drama though. This other girl really wants Crest (or his brother before he got a Lacuna himself). She really embarrassed herself trying to get him to pick her. It’s awful but at least I had some satisfaction seeing him reject her (muahahahha).
————————————————————————————
🚨🚨🚨🚨 SPOILERS 🚨🚨🚨🚨
Some ( Very Random) Moments of Notice Along With (Sometimes) My Very Live Reactions Straight From My Notes App to You:
📌 The wind toyed with his hair and I realized I’d never seen it dry. The Shark was tall, just as I’d suspected, given the height of his trident. His tan body was lean but muscled, honed from the strength it took to skillfully cut through the heavy ocean. The copper scales hugging the muscled contours of his legs gleamed like the metal of his trident. He wore a short garment tied around his waist
Got it. Surfer boy with scales.
📌 I was thinking that a young woman should be able to do what you just did. Most people are good, Elira. But the bad ones are awful.”
📌 It will be placed on his shoulder and stretch to cover his heart,” she announced.
Crest inhaled sharply. The artist’s eyes glittered.
ouhhhhhh
What do you mean? What’s up with the reaction? 🤨
📌 This was a sacred and special day for him. I had a feeling the feathers on his chest had ruined it in some way.
📌 The arrows were fletched with feathers of every shade, but none more dominant than blue gray.
It’s like having a terminator for dinner.
🤖 “Sorry for killing your whole family… pass the salt?”
📌 “Why?” he demanded. “What was so wrong with it?”
It wasn’t wrong at all. It was right. It was perfect. And it would all be snatched away whether I willed it or not.
October 2, 2023
I HAVE THOUGHTS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I feel really mixed on this one.
On one hand, the writing is excellent. But on the other, every scene was extended or explained just a touch too long making this book about 100 pages more than absolutely necessary. I liked the premise and set-up a lot. A good dose of enemies to lovers and righting wrongs and this is filled with plenty of reasons I pick up fantasy books like this.
I did think the Oracle/Seer angle took away from the story. It was causing a lot of telegraphing because of how often they were popping up. The gods then felt distant and not quite clicking with the main plot. There was little to no action for what should have been more interactive scenes between the two warring groups. I hope there’s a bit more intensity in the next read.
Elira and Crest have a nice super slow build happening. I appreciated a lot of the aspects of their relationship dynamic because of the way the story was put together. It’s realistic and not rushed so that alone makes me want to give book two a go.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: med-high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of loved ones, war themes, loss of life, attempted murder, near drowning
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
I feel really mixed on this one.
On one hand, the writing is excellent. But on the other, every scene was extended or explained just a touch too long making this book about 100 pages more than absolutely necessary. I liked the premise and set-up a lot. A good dose of enemies to lovers and righting wrongs and this is filled with plenty of reasons I pick up fantasy books like this.
I did think the Oracle/Seer angle took away from the story. It was causing a lot of telegraphing because of how often they were popping up. The gods then felt distant and not quite clicking with the main plot. There was little to no action for what should have been more interactive scenes between the two warring groups. I hope there’s a bit more intensity in the next read.
Elira and Crest have a nice super slow build happening. I appreciated a lot of the aspects of their relationship dynamic because of the way the story was put together. It’s realistic and not rushed so that alone makes me want to give book two a go.
Overall audience notes:
- Fantasy Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: med-high
- Trigger/Content Warnings: loss of loved ones, war themes, loss of life, attempted murder, near drowning
January 10, 2024
This is book One in a Duet it's a fantasy with some amazing world-building some of the best I've experienced to date. There is a romance but it's not really the focus of the story I'd say it's more of a sub-plot really at least in this first book and spice-wise well there really wasn't any but there's definitely potential for the romance aspect of this to develop further.
It's set in a land where you have sky people Empyrean who worship the goddess Neera and the sea people Isle of Kehlani who serve Talay, two opposing forces who have been at war for many years. One has wings for flight and the other gills for the water, Elira is from the sky she's a warrior and leader of her own squad and Crest is From the sea and also a warrior for his people. When Elira is betrayed it sets in motion an awakening and opening of her eyes making her now determined to effect changes even if it means she may have to sacrifice herself to achieve these aims.
This felt spiritual and unique and I don't think I've read anything quite like it. I fell in love with this world and its people. The writing was also amazing and I really didn't miss the lack of heat as I was so invested in the bigger picture.
I enjoyed this immensely especially once it really got started. It began slow but stick with it because once this gets going it's bloody amazing. This is less romance and more fantasy with some fantastic immersive world building which is probably the main selling point here the world this author has built is so imaginative with a vivid descriptive narrative that totally transports you to a new reality. I swung back and forth on my rating here but despite the slow start it definitely deserves a five as once this took off I was bloody transfixed and unable to put it down.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
January 27, 2024
3.5⭐️
Although my rating is a bit lower than I would like, I really did enjoy this book. I want to rate it a 4 star but theres just something that won’t let me. The first 200 pages were… a bit slow??? But once I passed that mark I was hooked. Like other reviews for this book, I did find the bird people and fish people strange at first and the descriptors had me questioning some things, but in the end I am here for it LOL.
⚡️🌊🐚☁️🪶🐠
I am really really excited to read the next book and can’t wait to see how this story continues. This was a SLOW BURN and I need more! There better be some kissing in book two PLS !!! I am very intrigued by the plot and unique fantastical aspects of this book!
Although my rating is a bit lower than I would like, I really did enjoy this book. I want to rate it a 4 star but theres just something that won’t let me. The first 200 pages were… a bit slow??? But once I passed that mark I was hooked. Like other reviews for this book, I did find the bird people and fish people strange at first and the descriptors had me questioning some things, but in the end I am here for it LOL.
⚡️🌊🐚☁️🪶🐠
I am really really excited to read the next book and can’t wait to see how this story continues. This was a SLOW BURN and I need more! There better be some kissing in book two PLS !!! I am very intrigued by the plot and unique fantastical aspects of this book!
December 20, 2023
Really glad I decided to read this, it’s an incredibly unique concept for a fantasy. It’s so nice to read something new with a take I haven’t read before.
Can’t wait for book 2 🖤
Can’t wait for book 2 🖤
December 25, 2025
Loved! This author took her time in all the right ways, I loved the writing style and character development. Can't wait for book 2
Read
March 11, 2023dnf at 32% idk just nothing is happening but might try again later
October 19, 2022
Earlier this year I read When Wishes Bleed and I absolutely loved it! So when I got the chance to share a cover reveal for this book AND receive an e-arc, I jumped at the opportunity!
Thank you Casey Bond and Book of Matches Media for the e-arc, all opinions are my own.
Okay, I absolutely loved this book! It was giving me slight Romeo and Juliette vibes - you have two peoples with a deep rooted hatred for each other and will do anything to try and win the war that's constantly raging. Bond writes such a lush world, not only on land and sea but also in the sky. I could read about her setting descriptions all day long! I loved the contrast between the two places too, how different they were and how different the people operated.
I loved Elira and Crest, they're both so well written and I was just hoping they would get together. Imagine my panic when I got 80% in and they barely even looked at each other! The slow burn is real with this one. We don't even get to see a real relationship between the two by the end of this book, they better get together in book 2!!
I enjoyed watching Elira specifically interact with both her world and the world Crest lives in, and how vastly different they are. In the end it all comes down to people trying to survive to live another day, but not everyone wants the war to end. A large portion of this book is Elira trying to heal and focus on the customs of the island, so I am definitely hoping for some more action in book two. I mean, this had action enough, don't get me wrong!
The story just really pulled me in and I loved every minute of it. Bond writes so well and she really knows how to entice you and keep you wanting for more! There were a few points in this book that I guessed correctly, but still I am left wanting more, wanting to know why or how something came about.
When does the next book come out?!
Overall, I loved this book and the characters within. They are well written, the settings are well written, and that story has me wanting for more! I feel so invested in the lore and backstories of both people, and I am genuinely interested in seeing how all this goes from here. I don't have a single complaint for this book, and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in reading Where Oceans Burn.
Content warnings: death, self harm, loss of a loved one, amputation, murder, infertility, war themes
Thank you Casey Bond and Book of Matches Media for the e-arc, all opinions are my own.
Okay, I absolutely loved this book! It was giving me slight Romeo and Juliette vibes - you have two peoples with a deep rooted hatred for each other and will do anything to try and win the war that's constantly raging. Bond writes such a lush world, not only on land and sea but also in the sky. I could read about her setting descriptions all day long! I loved the contrast between the two places too, how different they were and how different the people operated.
I loved Elira and Crest, they're both so well written and I was just hoping they would get together. Imagine my panic when I got 80% in and they barely even looked at each other! The slow burn is real with this one. We don't even get to see a real relationship between the two by the end of this book, they better get together in book 2!!
I enjoyed watching Elira specifically interact with both her world and the world Crest lives in, and how vastly different they are. In the end it all comes down to people trying to survive to live another day, but not everyone wants the war to end. A large portion of this book is Elira trying to heal and focus on the customs of the island, so I am definitely hoping for some more action in book two. I mean, this had action enough, don't get me wrong!
The story just really pulled me in and I loved every minute of it. Bond writes so well and she really knows how to entice you and keep you wanting for more! There were a few points in this book that I guessed correctly, but still I am left wanting more, wanting to know why or how something came about.
When does the next book come out?!
Overall, I loved this book and the characters within. They are well written, the settings are well written, and that story has me wanting for more! I feel so invested in the lore and backstories of both people, and I am genuinely interested in seeing how all this goes from here. I don't have a single complaint for this book, and would definitely recommend it to anyone interested in reading Where Oceans Burn.
Content warnings: death, self harm, loss of a loved one, amputation, murder, infertility, war themes
Read
March 2, 2024I genuinely have no idea what to rate this book. The first 45% of this book was slow and boring and could’ve been half the length. But the remaining 55% was amazing? I was addicted.
If you’re reading this book because it is marketed as enemies to lovers I would recommend skipping. This book is NOT enemies to lovers there was no “you should’ve done the world a favor and died ten years ago” if anything this is a fated mates troupe.
Otherwise I would recommend reading this book but keep an opened mind and low expectations.
If you’re reading this book because it is marketed as enemies to lovers I would recommend skipping. This book is NOT enemies to lovers there was no “you should’ve done the world a favor and died ten years ago” if anything this is a fated mates troupe.
Otherwise I would recommend reading this book but keep an opened mind and low expectations.
January 8, 2024
This was a new take on fantasy for me and truly an incredible concept. Where Oceans Burn has an actual enemies to lovers trope* (unlike most popular “enemies to lover” books that are just mildly annoyed to madly in love in <200 pages). The world building was a little slow for me in the beginning, but I’m so glad I pushed through. I have a soft spot in my heart for Elira.
It isn’t very often I read a book with a main character that believes one thing, and then learns and accepts that she, along with her people, are in the wrong. After her lifelong enemies show her mercy and kindness in her most vulnerable moment, Elira strives to change for the better and end generations of hate and violence. I love me some honest learning and growing. 🫶🏼
Overall, the writing in this book is GOOD! 👏🏻 I look forward to the sequel. 🪶🦈
*I’m hoping and praying anyways.. potential enemies to lovers trope! If they don’t end up as lovers I will riot.
It isn’t very often I read a book with a main character that believes one thing, and then learns and accepts that she, along with her people, are in the wrong. After her lifelong enemies show her mercy and kindness in her most vulnerable moment, Elira strives to change for the better and end generations of hate and violence. I love me some honest learning and growing. 🫶🏼
Overall, the writing in this book is GOOD! 👏🏻 I look forward to the sequel. 🪶🦈
*I’m hoping and praying anyways.. potential enemies to lovers trope! If they don’t end up as lovers I will riot.
May 8, 2024
4.5⭐️ I was sucked into this world quickly! I really am liking this authors books bc she creates these world and stories that over all are unlikes others. I couldn’t put it down surprisingly bc I like at least a little spice and this has zero!
I’m really curious to see where the story goes with the main couple! and how the battle between the sky and the sea goes.
**Warning: none really**
Worth reading?: YES
Reread?: NO
Read if you like:
-enemies to lovers vibes
-star crossed lovers
-antihero
-oracles & magic
-gods/goddesses
-land walkers, flyers and swimmers
-interspecies war
-betrayal
-no spice
-fantasy NA romance
I’m really curious to see where the story goes with the main couple! and how the battle between the sky and the sea goes.
**Warning: none really**
Worth reading?: YES
Reread?: NO
Read if you like:
-enemies to lovers vibes
-star crossed lovers
-antihero
-oracles & magic
-gods/goddesses
-land walkers, flyers and swimmers
-interspecies war
-betrayal
-no spice
-fantasy NA romance
December 24, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Main Character: Elira. A very well-drawn, complex character who we get to see really grow and change. She is the heart of this book and what makes it such an enjoyable read. She is strong, driven, stubborn, aggressive, and makes mistakes. But she also learns from mistakes, respects others, and changes her mind when presented with new viewpoints.
Love Interest: Crest. A good character whom I hope we get to know better in the sequel. He's portrayed as brave and strong but also very respectful of Elira. He has less on-page time than I'd like, and I wish I knew more about what drives him and draws him to Elira.
Romance: The romance is a bit complex, and there isn't as much as I expected. It starts as a delicious slow burn but then feels like it starts moving too fast. By the end of the book, things have set themself up well for the sequel.
Relationship Status at Book End:
Tropes:
• True enemies to lovers
• Slow burn
• Girls with Wings
• Boys with Gills
• Love fated by Gods
What Worked for Me:
👏 The world-building felt confusing to be a bit at first. You're dropped into this world of hatchings, nests, blood, oracles, elders, and intentions, and it's a bit hard to keep straight. But after a few chapters, you start understanding more about this Sky community and discover it's quite original and unique.
👏 The stakes. Although I didn't love the first part of the book, for reasons detailed below, one thing I did love was how well we got to know Elira's motivations. She has a clear goal in life, and we're made keenly aware of the consequences of failure. In a fantasy world, where the author could create any situation, I enjoy books where the author takes the time so that we're as invested as the main character in achieving her mission. And that the drama is as heightened as can be. That way, when the main character inevitably has to shift her goal, the tension is there, and we understand her reluctance to give up on what she's always believed in.
👏 Elira's willingness to learn and grow. While she is initially cautious and a bit hostile, she is more open-minded than I expected, which makes the story more interesting. We weren't subjected to chapter after chapter of her being overly stubborn.
👏 The twists. I saw some coming from a mile away , but for others, I was surprised by the reveal .
What Didn't Work for Me:
💔 It took a very long time until she reached the sea. This is a problem I often run into when you read the book description, and the main plot seems to be "When I find myself at the mercy of my greatest enemy, the terror known as the Shark of the Sea...", but you're over 40% of the way into the book and that has not happened. At first, I was enjoying learning about her world, how it functioned and who were the political players. But around the 25% mark, I was tired of the same old scenes of the elders, the oracle, the scholars, and her quad members and all their drama. Knowing she was about to leave all this behind, it felt hard to be super invested in this, even though it was clear that all these characters would be important. I think this first part of the book could have been cut in half, maybe cut into a quarter of what was written. I honestly started skimming around chapter 13 until she finally reached the sea.
💔 As a consequence of the book being 50% sky, the next 50% with the sea felt rushed. All the beats of a story about Elira moving from untrusting of this land and these people to finding some measure of trust had to occur so quickly.
Overall: I enjoyed this book - especially the second half. This book really reminded me of House of Beating Wings because that was also a book of two halves: a slow, tedious start and a fantastic conclusion. Like with that book, I'm very excited to see what the sequel will bring now that all the main characters are together and the plot has heated up.
Main Character: Elira. A very well-drawn, complex character who we get to see really grow and change. She is the heart of this book and what makes it such an enjoyable read. She is strong, driven, stubborn, aggressive, and makes mistakes. But she also learns from mistakes, respects others, and changes her mind when presented with new viewpoints.
Love Interest: Crest. A good character whom I hope we get to know better in the sequel. He's portrayed as brave and strong but also very respectful of Elira. He has less on-page time than I'd like, and I wish I knew more about what drives him and draws him to Elira.
Romance: The romance is a bit complex, and there isn't as much as I expected. It starts as a delicious slow burn but then feels like it starts moving too fast. By the end of the book, things have set themself up well for the sequel.
Relationship Status at Book End:
Tropes:
• True enemies to lovers
• Slow burn
• Girls with Wings
• Boys with Gills
• Love fated by Gods
What Worked for Me:
👏 The world-building felt confusing to be a bit at first. You're dropped into this world of hatchings, nests, blood, oracles, elders, and intentions, and it's a bit hard to keep straight. But after a few chapters, you start understanding more about this Sky community and discover it's quite original and unique.
👏 The stakes. Although I didn't love the first part of the book, for reasons detailed below, one thing I did love was how well we got to know Elira's motivations. She has a clear goal in life, and we're made keenly aware of the consequences of failure. In a fantasy world, where the author could create any situation, I enjoy books where the author takes the time so that we're as invested as the main character in achieving her mission. And that the drama is as heightened as can be. That way, when the main character inevitably has to shift her goal, the tension is there, and we understand her reluctance to give up on what she's always believed in.
👏 Elira's willingness to learn and grow. While she is initially cautious and a bit hostile, she is more open-minded than I expected, which makes the story more interesting. We weren't subjected to chapter after chapter of her being overly stubborn.
👏 The twists. I saw some coming from a mile away , but for others, I was surprised by the reveal .
What Didn't Work for Me:
💔 It took a very long time until she reached the sea. This is a problem I often run into when you read the book description, and the main plot seems to be "When I find myself at the mercy of my greatest enemy, the terror known as the Shark of the Sea...", but you're over 40% of the way into the book and that has not happened. At first, I was enjoying learning about her world, how it functioned and who were the political players. But around the 25% mark, I was tired of the same old scenes of the elders, the oracle, the scholars, and her quad members and all their drama. Knowing she was about to leave all this behind, it felt hard to be super invested in this, even though it was clear that all these characters would be important. I think this first part of the book could have been cut in half, maybe cut into a quarter of what was written. I honestly started skimming around chapter 13 until she finally reached the sea.
💔 As a consequence of the book being 50% sky, the next 50% with the sea felt rushed. All the beats of a story about Elira moving from untrusting of this land and these people to finding some measure of trust had to occur so quickly.
Overall: I enjoyed this book - especially the second half. This book really reminded me of House of Beating Wings because that was also a book of two halves: a slow, tedious start and a fantastic conclusion. Like with that book, I'm very excited to see what the sequel will bring now that all the main characters are together and the plot has heated up.
June 23, 2023
Romeo and Juliet meets Avatar in this book, and I really enjoyed it! The different belief systems of both clans of people was confusing and hard to follow at times, but it did enrich the world and helped give purpose and motivation to the characters.
I would say for a fantasy romance, the love interest is only introduced half way through the book, and they don't really interact too much, so it's definitely heavier on the fantasy. But I enjoyed the writing style and unique concept!
I would say for a fantasy romance, the love interest is only introduced half way through the book, and they don't really interact too much, so it's definitely heavier on the fantasy. But I enjoyed the writing style and unique concept!
September 1, 2023
3.5 stars ⭐️
There are a lot of things I really enjoyed about this book, a few things that were silly, but overall an enjoyable read. I liked Elira and I’m curious as to how this plot is going to play out.
Will I pick up the sequel? ✔️
This book at the time of reading is on Kindle Unlimited, whoop whoop!
There are a lot of things I really enjoyed about this book, a few things that were silly, but overall an enjoyable read. I liked Elira and I’m curious as to how this plot is going to play out.
Will I pick up the sequel? ✔️
This book at the time of reading is on Kindle Unlimited, whoop whoop!
February 19, 2025
If you were a Maximum Ride loving millennial, this is really going to scratch an itch you forgot you had!
It’s me. I’m the Maximum Ride loving millennial.
It’s me. I’m the Maximum Ride loving millennial.
July 1, 2024
The world building was excellent and unique. Unfortunately, I found it hard to connect to the FMC and MCM, but it did improve towards the end. I’ll prob finish the duology just to see if it continues to improve.
January 13, 2024
3 Feathery Stars
✔️ Single POV (Elria)
✔️ Fantasy romance / romantasy
✔️ Tropes: Fates mates; slow burn; YA (0/5 🌶️)
❌ ENDS ON A CLIFFHANGER
On one side, there is the sky. On the other, the sea. Elria is a bird-like creature raised in the cold, unfeeling warrior world ruled by the goddess of the heavens. “The Shark” is her land-bound enemy who she pledges to capture.
The world building in this book is very unique, but the single POV really slows the story down. It almost reads outside of the first person because Elria is too cold and unfeeling to give the plot much passion.
Things heat up in the last 20%, but it’s very slow going until then. I wished the author had edited down the first two parts of the book and given us a more satisfying ending to propel the reader into book 2.
Suitable for young adult readers comfortable with some violence.
✔️ Single POV (Elria)
✔️ Fantasy romance / romantasy
✔️ Tropes: Fates mates; slow burn; YA (0/5 🌶️)
❌ ENDS ON A CLIFFHANGER
On one side, there is the sky. On the other, the sea. Elria is a bird-like creature raised in the cold, unfeeling warrior world ruled by the goddess of the heavens. “The Shark” is her land-bound enemy who she pledges to capture.
The world building in this book is very unique, but the single POV really slows the story down. It almost reads outside of the first person because Elria is too cold and unfeeling to give the plot much passion.
Things heat up in the last 20%, but it’s very slow going until then. I wished the author had edited down the first two parts of the book and given us a more satisfying ending to propel the reader into book 2.
Suitable for young adult readers comfortable with some violence.
February 5, 2023
Loved
This book was amazing everything this author writes turns into gold. I loved everything about this book from the story to the characters. The characters were amazing I especially loved Elira and Crest both had their own motives for many things but they fit well together I am loving that slow burn romance looking forward to reading more of it. I loved Elira for her strong will and her willingness to see beyond herself and her people and how she wants to make amends somehow and how once she begins to care she can't just let go. I loved Crest for how after a while he was able to see beyond what he thought of as a monster looking forward to where their relationship goes from here. I loved the plot it starts with Elira and her grief over the death of her friend and her getting ready to add a new member to her group other things happen and something she has hidden is revealed so she has to hunt the Shark and bring him back or lose her wings so she sets out to do this learns many things. She is then betrayed and then saved by her enemy she then learns the enemy is not att all like she was told she comes to care for them other things are found out looking forward to reading the sequel.
This book was amazing everything this author writes turns into gold. I loved everything about this book from the story to the characters. The characters were amazing I especially loved Elira and Crest both had their own motives for many things but they fit well together I am loving that slow burn romance looking forward to reading more of it. I loved Elira for her strong will and her willingness to see beyond herself and her people and how she wants to make amends somehow and how once she begins to care she can't just let go. I loved Crest for how after a while he was able to see beyond what he thought of as a monster looking forward to where their relationship goes from here. I loved the plot it starts with Elira and her grief over the death of her friend and her getting ready to add a new member to her group other things happen and something she has hidden is revealed so she has to hunt the Shark and bring him back or lose her wings so she sets out to do this learns many things. She is then betrayed and then saved by her enemy she then learns the enemy is not att all like she was told she comes to care for them other things are found out looking forward to reading the sequel.
January 18, 2023
I’ve been in somewhat of a slump lately. The last book I read was somewhat silly and pulled me out of it. Yesterday, I started reading Where Oceans Burn, and at first, I was worried that I was still slumping because it starts very slowly. I stuck with it, and I am so very glad I did. A lot of times I will get so sucked into a book that I devour it - but I tend to miss things because I just have to know what happens. I savored every word in this book. I put it down at a reasonable time last time, and had no problem with my dog being extra needy this morning because it meant I got to snuggle up with her and read some more.
Now, on to the book. Where Oceans Burn has some of the best world building that I have read in a very long time. The character arcs, especially Elira’s, were phenomenal. Elira’s feelings just bled off the pages. The slow burn romance is delicious, and I’m honestly so happy there was no spice in this first book - i think it would have taken away from everything.
Now, on to the book. Where Oceans Burn has some of the best world building that I have read in a very long time. The character arcs, especially Elira’s, were phenomenal. Elira’s feelings just bled off the pages. The slow burn romance is delicious, and I’m honestly so happy there was no spice in this first book - i think it would have taken away from everything.
May 17, 2024
I was fully prepared to write the most scathing 1 star review… but then i finished the book and genuinely liked the ending.
HOWEVER, This book literally put me to sleep so many nights in a row, and i severely disliked it at the start that i told myself the only reason i planned to finish it was to write a bad review. (I feel like if you DNF you can’t give a proper rating)
While the last 45% of the book was genuinely enjoyable, i still cannot get over how utterly lame the general conflict is. I also saw others saying the world building was so great but i strongly disagree. I also found a few continuity errors.
Firstly, there are elements that suggest the world is primitive, yet other times there are descriptions that directly compete with that. Secondly, the conflict?? Seriously? We have a group of bird people that have magic and a whole group of “scholars”, supposedly the smartest bird people on the cloud city, but they only just figured out to fish in the area where their enemies aren’t at? And their society is clearly old yet they haven’t figured out to grow ANYTHING? So the starving bird people have to fight with the fish people who are supposedly so nice but they can’t share food? Oh they didn’t know the burd people were starving? Why else would they be flying down to land to get food and fish????? Yall really gotta kill them for that?
Also, the magic system? What on earth is it? It’s the same name as the city and some people have more of it but what does it do?? They can form a cloud? That’s it? But FMC has the literal most magic and what can she do? Make a cloud bracelet?
These things all greatly pissed me off until she made it on the island because an actual plot started to form vs the first 65% of the book that was just “catch the shark” and “the old people are bad” and then the book started to become somewhat enjoyable. But, here are some good things that bumped my original 1 star rating to a 3 after finishing: FMC is NOT annoying, she doesn’t make stupid, immature, brash decisions. She says what you want her to say. MMC is ok, def a hot grown up shark boy, but i feel like we don’t know him well enough. Which is exactly why i liked that they explicitly say they dont love each other, cause it’s been too soon! Did like the twist at the end, though I saw it coming. Also liked grandma Magma, what a sick name.
That being said…. Will i read the next? Who knows… I’m lowkey into shark boy…
PS: absolutely DIED at the spin the bottle part….
HOWEVER, This book literally put me to sleep so many nights in a row, and i severely disliked it at the start that i told myself the only reason i planned to finish it was to write a bad review. (I feel like if you DNF you can’t give a proper rating)
While the last 45% of the book was genuinely enjoyable, i still cannot get over how utterly lame the general conflict is. I also saw others saying the world building was so great but i strongly disagree. I also found a few continuity errors.
Firstly, there are elements that suggest the world is primitive, yet other times there are descriptions that directly compete with that. Secondly, the conflict?? Seriously? We have a group of bird people that have magic and a whole group of “scholars”, supposedly the smartest bird people on the cloud city, but they only just figured out to fish in the area where their enemies aren’t at? And their society is clearly old yet they haven’t figured out to grow ANYTHING? So the starving bird people have to fight with the fish people who are supposedly so nice but they can’t share food? Oh they didn’t know the burd people were starving? Why else would they be flying down to land to get food and fish????? Yall really gotta kill them for that?
Also, the magic system? What on earth is it? It’s the same name as the city and some people have more of it but what does it do?? They can form a cloud? That’s it? But FMC has the literal most magic and what can she do? Make a cloud bracelet?
These things all greatly pissed me off until she made it on the island because an actual plot started to form vs the first 65% of the book that was just “catch the shark” and “the old people are bad” and then the book started to become somewhat enjoyable. But, here are some good things that bumped my original 1 star rating to a 3 after finishing: FMC is NOT annoying, she doesn’t make stupid, immature, brash decisions. She says what you want her to say. MMC is ok, def a hot grown up shark boy, but i feel like we don’t know him well enough. Which is exactly why i liked that they explicitly say they dont love each other, cause it’s been too soon! Did like the twist at the end, though I saw it coming. Also liked grandma Magma, what a sick name.
That being said…. Will i read the next? Who knows… I’m lowkey into shark boy…
PS: absolutely DIED at the spin the bottle part….
February 7, 2024
"Failing teaches far more than success by happenstance ever will."
The world building is amazing! It's complex, and both sides are well fleshed out. Along with the different governing bodies and people to go with it. The differences between Empyream goes far beyond people of the sky and people of the sea. The way Empyream views mating and couples versus the Isle.
"The salt once told me that wars are waged not because of differences or ancient grudges, but because the minds of those fighting are in discord with their souls. You believe we are evil because you were taught it from birth. You believe Talay is malicious and devious."
As much as this book is fantasy, it breaches some very difficult and accurate subjects that are current in our world. One of the biggest is prejudice and misunderstanding of others who are different. I know that the Isles people and the people of Empyream both have such deep-rooted prejudices due to history, actions, beliefs, government, and misunderstandings. How things could have been different and harmonious had someone just been open to talk.
"Who is to say that your truth is valid and mine false?"
I felt so much incredible rage at the betrayals that Elira suffered. Not just at the ones closest to her, but the government she had Sworn to protect and follow. It is incredibly similar to what is going on in our world. There are so many grapple for power the way the Elders of Empyream do. But not just the elders, but other individuals. I'm unsure where the Orcales loyalties lie, and I so hope she wants peace and to help Elira.
There was a lot of revelations that shocked me. Two of them were expected, but the others were insane. I hope that the next book everything is resolved. I just wish Erila didn't have to sacrifice so much and lose so much. I cried for her on multiple occasions. Angry along with her. All the emotions she was experiencing, I also felt. She's so strong to have stood by and watched the Isle's ceremony. That's devastating. Yet she withstood it and had compassion. She didn't try to justify it all. She listened and opened her mind and heart. She shows incredible strength and compassion.
The world building is amazing! It's complex, and both sides are well fleshed out. Along with the different governing bodies and people to go with it. The differences between Empyream goes far beyond people of the sky and people of the sea. The way Empyream views mating and couples versus the Isle.
"The salt once told me that wars are waged not because of differences or ancient grudges, but because the minds of those fighting are in discord with their souls. You believe we are evil because you were taught it from birth. You believe Talay is malicious and devious."
As much as this book is fantasy, it breaches some very difficult and accurate subjects that are current in our world. One of the biggest is prejudice and misunderstanding of others who are different. I know that the Isles people and the people of Empyream both have such deep-rooted prejudices due to history, actions, beliefs, government, and misunderstandings. How things could have been different and harmonious had someone just been open to talk.
"Who is to say that your truth is valid and mine false?"
I felt so much incredible rage at the betrayals that Elira suffered. Not just at the ones closest to her, but the government she had Sworn to protect and follow. It is incredibly similar to what is going on in our world. There are so many grapple for power the way the Elders of Empyream do. But not just the elders, but other individuals. I'm unsure where the Orcales loyalties lie, and I so hope she wants peace and to help Elira.
There was a lot of revelations that shocked me. Two of them were expected, but the others were insane. I hope that the next book everything is resolved. I just wish Erila didn't have to sacrifice so much and lose so much. I cried for her on multiple occasions. Angry along with her. All the emotions she was experiencing, I also felt. She's so strong to have stood by and watched the Isle's ceremony. That's devastating. Yet she withstood it and had compassion. She didn't try to justify it all. She listened and opened her mind and heart. She shows incredible strength and compassion.
January 26, 2024
First off, I wish I could rate this 3.5 stars.
The first nearly 50% of this book was tough to get through. The main character, Elira, is from a kingdom that cherishes individuality, strength, and punishment. Due to this, Elira is cold and ruthless, and frankly unlikable. Around the half-way point of the book, her circumstances change, and she slowly becomes aware of the many lies she has been taught, and the kinder, warmer ways others live. I understand why the first half of the book is necessary to the story, and it does indeed make the last quarter more impactful, I just wish that section could have been shorter or Elira could have been slightly more likable.
That being said, the love-interest, the one who helps her see kindness and humanity, is very likable. The character archs are interesting, though frustrating at times, and it felt weird to root against the main character.
The world building of Elira's Kingdom, Empearyan, was also tough to get through. I don't always love this style of giving details as they come up, so the reader is often questioning or confused.
This book does set up the second of the duology well, and I am excited to dig into that one. Most of the characters are dynamic and interesting, and the overall story and fates at play are dramatic, tense, and romantic. I feel much more invested now that Elira has grown.
Overall, I'd recommend, especially to someone who reads fantasy and is looking for something different than the usual "A Blank of Blank and Blank " type books.
The first nearly 50% of this book was tough to get through. The main character, Elira, is from a kingdom that cherishes individuality, strength, and punishment. Due to this, Elira is cold and ruthless, and frankly unlikable. Around the half-way point of the book, her circumstances change, and she slowly becomes aware of the many lies she has been taught, and the kinder, warmer ways others live. I understand why the first half of the book is necessary to the story, and it does indeed make the last quarter more impactful, I just wish that section could have been shorter or Elira could have been slightly more likable.
That being said, the love-interest, the one who helps her see kindness and humanity, is very likable. The character archs are interesting, though frustrating at times, and it felt weird to root against the main character.
The world building of Elira's Kingdom, Empearyan, was also tough to get through. I don't always love this style of giving details as they come up, so the reader is often questioning or confused.
This book does set up the second of the duology well, and I am excited to dig into that one. Most of the characters are dynamic and interesting, and the overall story and fates at play are dramatic, tense, and romantic. I feel much more invested now that Elira has grown.
Overall, I'd recommend, especially to someone who reads fantasy and is looking for something different than the usual "A Blank of Blank and Blank " type books.
November 20, 2022
This was my first Casey Bond experience, and it won't be my last. She joins my very short list of authors who are on my now insta-buy list. First of all, I read this as an e-book and it might possibly be the most beautiful e-book I've ever read. I can't wait to see how gorgeous the physical book is.
The world building is deep and immersive with out feeling like an info dump. Things are gently laid out as we go, and we learn how complicated Elira's world is, with political games, and intrigues that mean life and death to those within the city. Those with power want to keep it, and no one wants to join the ranks of the clipped.
I loved Elira. I cried with her EVERY. TIME. I shared her grief, her frustration, and her successes. I don't know how Casey Bond did it, but her enemies were my enemies, friends were my friends, and I couldn't set this book down until I finished it. Such a contrast in cultures between the Elyreans and Kehlani's add to the depth of the vivid storytelling.
The romance in this story was the slowest of slow burns. Usually I'm not a fan of enemies to lovers, but this was done so well that now I'm wondering if I have a new favorite. Crest and Elira have much to overcome, and their cultural differences make the development of their relationship difficult. Even what it means to be someone's partner is completely different in each culture. They have a lot to learn about each other, and each other's cultures to make that connection and to hopefully bring peace to their two warring societies.
If you like fantasy romances, with slow burn, enemies to lovers tropes then you would really enjoy this book. Prepare yourself for the book hangover. It's all well worth it.
https://www.heathenbooker.com/2022/11...
The world building is deep and immersive with out feeling like an info dump. Things are gently laid out as we go, and we learn how complicated Elira's world is, with political games, and intrigues that mean life and death to those within the city. Those with power want to keep it, and no one wants to join the ranks of the clipped.
I loved Elira. I cried with her EVERY. TIME. I shared her grief, her frustration, and her successes. I don't know how Casey Bond did it, but her enemies were my enemies, friends were my friends, and I couldn't set this book down until I finished it. Such a contrast in cultures between the Elyreans and Kehlani's add to the depth of the vivid storytelling.
The romance in this story was the slowest of slow burns. Usually I'm not a fan of enemies to lovers, but this was done so well that now I'm wondering if I have a new favorite. Crest and Elira have much to overcome, and their cultural differences make the development of their relationship difficult. Even what it means to be someone's partner is completely different in each culture. They have a lot to learn about each other, and each other's cultures to make that connection and to hopefully bring peace to their two warring societies.
If you like fantasy romances, with slow burn, enemies to lovers tropes then you would really enjoy this book. Prepare yourself for the book hangover. It's all well worth it.
https://www.heathenbooker.com/2022/11...
January 3, 2024
I don't often give fantasy and/or fantasy romance combos five stars. Something in my brain just feels like unless it's LOTR's vibes it can't meet that mark. However, I really enjoyed this novel. I appreciated that the main female character wasn't wimpy or the typicaly I was weak and surprise overnight I became a BA superstar. I liked that she held her own and owned a room from the start. But what I loved the most I think, was the evolution of her character. Even though I appreciated her take no crap this is who I am mindset, I loved that she softened and learned that maybe there was another way. I appreciated that her mind kind of ebbed and flowed between her feelings and it wasn't this on off switch that sometimes comes in these novels. The Shark was also a surprising character. He was written so differently from many of the main male characters in these books. He is respectful of her strength and doesn't try to caudle her. I appreciated the subtlety of the blossiming romance in this as well. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy a good spicey romance. But I also appreciate the slow build that feels more natural. I'm excited to move on to the second book. I suspect I'll feel a little sad when it's over. But we'll see.
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