What a phenomenal journey this book took me on! From the very first page, I was completely immersed in the world of Drusilla Valerius (Dru) a fierce and complex heroine who’s thrown headfirst into the deadly Valorem Blood Trials. These trials aren’t just a fight against deadly evils, but a battle to discover her own identity. Dru’s path to self-discovery is both thrilling and emotional, and thrust her into the arms of her ex, Marcus Scaevola.

Deoradhan’s world-building and character development are absolutely amazing. The attention to detail and emotional depth pulled me right into the story. I couldn’t get enough of the enemies to lovers trope and the slow burn romance between Dru and Marcus was everything I hoped for.

Dru is the kind of fierce female lead I love, strong, independent, and fully capable of fighting her own battles without relying on the male lead to save her. And Marcus? He’s the brooding protector type who would go to any lengths for Dru, even while carrying a secret that could unravel the trust they’ve fought so hard to rebuild.

An intense, beautifully written fantasy with adventure, lust, and high stakes. I couldn't put it down!

*Thank you to M.K. Deoradhan for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.