Tag: roaring books press

Book Review: Heir of Storms (Storm Weaver #1) by Lauren Hamilton Murray

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Rating: ★★★★
Audience: YA Fantasy Romance
Length: 416 pages
Author: Lauren Hamilton Murray
Publisher: Roaring Books Press
Release Date: June 3rd, 2025
Image & Other Reviews on: Goodreads

BOOK SUMMARY:

RED QUEEN meets SHADOW AND BONE in this explosive start to a YA romantasy trilogy about dangerous magic, forbidden love, and a cut-throat competition for the throne in an empire where crowns are not inherited — they’re won.

The very day Blaze came into the world, she almost drowned it. A Rain Singer born into one of the most powerful fire-wielding families in the empire, Blaze’s birth summoned a devastating storm that left thousands dead. She’s been hidden away ever since with a dark secret: the same torrential power that branded her an outcast disappeared that fateful day. And she’s not sure she wants it back.

When an unexpected invitation arrives for Blaze and her twin brother, Flint, to compete as future rulers of the empire, she’s suddenly thrust into the limelight again — and into battle. Threats abound at the Golden Palace, where intrigue and romance await with not one but two handsome suitors: the enchanting Crown Prince and a dangerously alluring newcomer at court.

As Blaze explores her untapped power, she discovers the throne may be within her grasp. But in order to take it, she’ll have to leave behind the stories that others have told about her, and find the courage to write her own.

NOTHING NEW.

But I didn’t hate reading it? It’s one of those series starters that you enjoy long enough to be convinced to read book two. Do I think it followed stereotypical young adult fantasy monikers? Absolutely. There were some good dynamics between characters and the quest for the throne though. I liked the competitions and learning more about the magic system and world.

I think the romance could have been a little more heavy handed or at least less insta-love. Either change would have resulted in more connection. It did set up for one of my preferred romance plot lines though so I look forward to seeing that result.

Overall audience notes:

  • YA Fantasy Romance
  • Language: low
  • Romance: kisses
  • Violence: moderate

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Book Review: The Last Bloodcarver (The Last Bloodcarver Duology #1) by Vanessa Le

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Rating: ★★★★
Audience: YA Fantasy
Length: 384 pages
Author: Vanessa Le
Publisher: Roaring Books Press
Release Date: March 19th, 2024
Image & Other Reviews on: Goodreads

BOOK SUMMARY:

Nhika is a bloodcarver. A cold-hearted, ruthless being who can alter human biology with just a touch. In the industrial city of Theumas, she is seen not as a healer, but a monster that kills for pleasure.

When Nhika is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she’s captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder.

But as Nhika delves deeper into their investigation amidst the glitz of Theumas’ wealthiest district, she begins to notice parallels between this job and her own dark past. And when she meets an alluring yet entitled physician’s aide, Ven Kochin, she’s forced to question the true intent behind this murder. In a society that outcasts her, Kochin seems drawn to her…though he takes every chance he gets to push her out of his opulent world.

When Nhika discovers that Kochin is not who he claims to be, and that there is an evil dwelling in Theumas that runs much deeper than the murder of one man, she must decide where her heart, and her allegiance, truly lie. And — if she’s willing to become the dreaded bloodcarver Theumas fears — to save herself and the ones she’s vowed to protect.

WOW, SO GOOD.

I had no expectations going into this and found myself wrapped up in a wonderful YA fantasy debut. I loved the combination of sci-fi + fantasy this showcased. It was also very heavily medically based and I’m the kind of person that loves that stuff.

The plot was steady and filled with plenty of highs and lows. I loved seeing Nihka grow into herself and trying to take the next best step. The mystery was great too and I love grand reveals.

There’s a slow burn romance that’s woven throughout with the right dash of rivals to lovers vibes. I loved that Nihka and Kochin got many chances to get to know one another and they really grew on me.

And the ENDING. I have no idea where things will go next but I’m very invested now and look forward to the next book.

Overall audience notes:

  • YA Fantasy
  • Language: very low
  • Romance: kisses
  • Violence: moderate

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