A review by themarginaliawriter
Blood & Steel by Helen Scheuerer

4.5

Wilder Hawthorne... While I'd love for that to be my whole review, it wouldn’t really help you decide if this book is for you! 

Blood & Steel delivers a gripping storyline rooted in two prophecies.
The first is personal to Althea “Thea” Zoltaire, whose fate stone reveals she’ll die at the age of 27. The second is tied to Thezmarr itself, foretelling that a “daughter of darkness” will wield a blade and bring the kingdom to ruin. In response, the kingdom bans women from carrying weapons.


But Thea refuses to accept her fate or society’s restrictions. Determined to live a meaningful life, she sets her sights on becoming a Warsword—a Champion of Thezmarr. Her journey is challenging, and while she faces resistance, she also finds acceptance and support from those who see her potential.


Wilder, Malik, and Torj are among the few who back her. I especially loved Torj’s role. His steady guidance and encouragement aren’t just crucial to Thea’s growth but also help nudge the very slow-burn romance between her and Wilder into motion. This dynamic felt so authentic—sometimes, the people with the most experience and insight are the ones who truly understand the battles ahead.


Thea’s struggles to earn respect aren’t just about proving herself. They’re also a reflection of how systemic biases make every victory feel like an uphill battle. She’s not just fighting for her place, she’s fighting for those who believe in her, like Kipp and Cal, who also face challenges because of their loyalty to her.


As the first book in a four-part series, Blood & Steel lays a solid foundation with intricate world-building and well-developed characters. Thezmarr’s history of fallen cities, monstrous threats, and the weight of its prophecies provide a rich backdrop, while Thea’s journey is as inspiring as it is heart-wrenching. 

If you love slow-burn romance, high-stakes fantasy, strong heroines, and deep character connections, Blood & Steel is absolutely worth reading.