themarginaliawriter's Reviews (47)

There’s nothing wrong with this book—I think I just came off a really amazing reading month before diving into it. I was super excited to read it, and even now, I’m still eager to continue the duology. That said, it doesn’t have the lasting impact (yet) of something like Blood Over Bright Haven. 

In this first book, we’re introduced to all the main players: Isla Belthare, our fiercely loyal and protective protagonist; the Four Elementals—Aidan (hot-headed), Kai (playful but with questionable motives), Jade (quiet and a bit too straight-laced), and Rynn (the black sheep, moody, passionate, protective, and the overall yummy Air Elemental—or so we think); and finally, the Dark God,

Sebastian

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The book ends on a major cliffhanger, and I’ve decided to take a break before picking up the sequel.

If you’re planning to read these, do yourself a favor and read them back to back. 

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.

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. 

Giddy up, we’re going on a ride! This book was the contemporary romance I didn’t know I needed. 

As the story unfolds, Rhett and Summer help each other discover who they truly are and what they deserve. They find the strength to follow their hearts instead of living up to others' expectations. 

I’m so excited to continue this series, and Rhett… I’ll always wear your cowboy hat. 

This is the first book I’ve read by M.L. Wang, and it absolutely exceeds the hype. Now I can’t wait to dive into more of her work. 

The story follows Sciona Freynan as she becomes the first woman in the High Magistry. Her strength, focus, and determination are truly admirable. Along the way, she meets Thomil, a Kwen and survivor of the Blight. 

 

As the story unfolds, the truth behind the source of magic and the Blight is revealed, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. The revelations about the cause, who’s to blame, and who knew the truth affect all the main characters. 

 

Both Thomil and Sciona are forced to question everything they believed in, including each other. The self-doubt, denial, and loss they experience feel devastatingly real. 

This is easily the best book I’ve read so far this year! 

This review covers both Cursed Princess Club Volume 2 and Volume 3, as they continue to dive deeper into the lives of the pastel princesses and plaid princes. 

In Volume 2, Gwen faces some tough realities, including negative self-talk, the possibility that she may have misunderstood Frederick, and the patience needed for changing opinions. We’re also introduced to the Princels, a group of princes with severe self-esteem issues, adding even more depth to the story. The volume ends on an exciting note as Gwen meets Lord Leopold, a potential suitor who truly sees her beauty. 

 

Volume 3 picks up with the pastel princesses in lockdown while their father is off traveling somewhere. Lord Leopold arrives, eager to win Gwen’s heart, but not everyone in the Cursed Princess Club is thrilled about her presence. Rumors begin circulating, questioning whether Gwen might actually be cursed, especially after seeing her family portrait. One of the funniest moments is Jamie stripping to create a distraction so Leopold can approach Gwen, only for Jamie to show up again in Leopold’s paintings. The scene is hilariously chaotic and such a standout. 

 

This series continues to balance heartfelt lessons and humor perfectly, making it a delight to read.