Meisl didn’t just write a book—she cast a spell. And I’m not talking about the whimsical kind with glitter and floating candles. No, this is the soul-stirring, ugly-crying, “I see too much of myself in this protagonist” kind of magic. The kind that reminds you books can still knock the wind out of you—in the best, most emotionally destabilizing way.

On the surface, this is Sylvie’s story. A girl born with a visible mark that her Viking-inspired society takes as divine proof that she’s cursed (basically public enemy number one with a smile too kind for this cruel world). But underneath the worldbuilding (which, by the way, is lush and dripping with Norse lore), this is a story about the radical, messy, breathtaking journey to become— to reclaim your voice, your power, and your place in a world that’s tried to make you small.

Yes, Sylvie is the classic black sheep; but not the edgy, dagger-wielding kind. No, she’s the people-pleasing, soft-spoken, please-don’t-hurt-me kind, and let me tell you... watching her unravel, rage, and rise? Chef’s kiss. Also, pain. Lots of it. But the kind that heals something in you as it breaks.

Enter Haldor: blue-eyed, golden-boy protector and the kind of best friend we all secretly want to pine after us. And Tara, the chaotic bestie who is the human embodiment of “bad idea, let’s do it anyway.” Together, they light up the early chapters with laughter and loyalty.

But THEN. Sylvie, tired of perfection and aching for more, sneaks out with Tara to join a forbidden celebration. Enter Axle— a feral, honey-eyed warrior with vibes so intense, I think I flinched when he showed up on page. He’s morally gray, protective in the “touch her and ☠️” kind of way, and honestly, I’m obsessed.

I won’t spoil the rest, but let me say this: the book is less about romance (though what’s there is swoon-worthy), and more about the glorious, fiery journey of stepping into your own power. The transformation arc? Immaculate. The tension? Sharp enough to slice you open. The prose? Lyrical without being fussy. The pacing? Addictive. It’s not heavy on spice, but it doesn't need to be, the emotional stakes are scorching on their own.

This isn’t just a story. It’s a reckoning. A reclamation. A mirror held up with brutal honesty and the promise that what’s broken can still burn brighter.

Perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, The Bridge Kingdom, and ACOTAR— especially those craving soul-deep transformation with a side of blades, betrayal, and yearning.

⚔️ Allies to lovers
💖 Friends to lovers
🌚 Morally gray MMC
☠️ “Touch her and bleed” energy
🥷 Secret identities
🦍 Protective/possessive MMC
🤺 Trials (Book 1 is prep—Book 2 is go-time)
👩‍❤️‍👨 Fated mates

** be sure to check your trigger warnings**

Thank you to the author for the ARC. This review reflects my own, very honest, very emotional spiral through the pages of this wildly promising debut. I’m ready for book two… just as soon as I recover. 😅👏