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Shadows of Immortals/Aforetime #1
Aforetime
Anna’s position as a new forest witch is a great honor, and a chance to show what she is capable of.
But, when she finds herself in Gora, an ancient, mysterious castle, she is not sure that she is right for the job.
As Anna learns more about Gora’s inhabitants, she begins to wonder if she can trust anyone at all – including Hadeon, the dangerous and handsome master of the castle, who appears to have a dark secret.
When she dives deeper into the mysteries of Gora, she uncovers a carefully crafted web of lies and black magic.
To save her friends, Anna embarks on an adventure that will lead her down a path of betrayal, deception, and forbidden love.
Aforetime is a dark vampire romance about adventure, self-discovery, and the power of true love.
The Aforetime is a sweet fantasy romance for fans of Serpent & Dove, Kingdom of the Wicked, Vampire Academy, Witcher, and Shadow and Bone. This book is for anyone who loves medieval sorcery, vampire romance, witches and wizards, and monsters, and dragons.
But, when she finds herself in Gora, an ancient, mysterious castle, she is not sure that she is right for the job.
As Anna learns more about Gora’s inhabitants, she begins to wonder if she can trust anyone at all – including Hadeon, the dangerous and handsome master of the castle, who appears to have a dark secret.
When she dives deeper into the mysteries of Gora, she uncovers a carefully crafted web of lies and black magic.
To save her friends, Anna embarks on an adventure that will lead her down a path of betrayal, deception, and forbidden love.
Aforetime is a dark vampire romance about adventure, self-discovery, and the power of true love.
The Aforetime is a sweet fantasy romance for fans of Serpent & Dove, Kingdom of the Wicked, Vampire Academy, Witcher, and Shadow and Bone. This book is for anyone who loves medieval sorcery, vampire romance, witches and wizards, and monsters, and dragons.
230 pages, Paperback
Published February 9, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
April 17, 2024
I had previously read this story & my review of the book is below. I just now listened to the audio book & I am glad I did. I feel it added a layer to the story I didn't fully get while reading it. I really enjoyed the character voices in the audiobook. The female characters each had very unique voices that I felt fit them beautifully. The voice for Hadeon I have to say was good, but I didn't fit him. This could just be a me thing, but I imagine him sounding less old and grizzled. Despite his voice not matching my expectations I didn't feel it took away from the beautiful story. This version had an added Hadeon POV that the book I had read didn't include. It was nice to expand of the story through this additional POV. I highly recommend giving this audiobook a try. My full book review is below.
Aforetime is a story filled with many fantasy elements: magic, shapeshifters, witches, wolves, vampires, & lots of mystery to keep you intrigued & engaged.
The story starts a little slow & isolated. It makes you wonder what's about to happen then abruptly that changes when our lead character Anna gets swept away to help a kingdom under siege from dark elements.
The kingdom is led by Hadeon & his sister Alina. They both have secrets to be revealed throughout the story. Anna, a young novice woods witch that they hope can help them in their fight against the mysterious forces.
I really enjoyed all the characters & the unraveling mystery. I feel like we're owed more details about them. I'm hoping we'll continue to dig deeper into each of them in book 2. I really enjoyed the fact that the lead male character was written better than male leads often are in fantasy books. He comes across as a typical brooding, high on his horse royal, but he's written in a way that makes him seem very deep, caring, & a nobleman. I like how the women aren't your typical swooning damsels you often see. Instead, they are strong, independent warriors. I really enjoyed all the relationships developed during the story.
I feel very torn on my rating. A lot is left unresolved in this story. I feel the character stories weren't properly explored & the book was cut short of what it could've been. I do love the potential character trajectories, the fantasy elements, & the world being built. I'll give the story 5 a rating in hopes that everything I believe this story can be, will be fully delivered in the rest of the series. I look forward to book two & beyond!
Aforetime is a story filled with many fantasy elements: magic, shapeshifters, witches, wolves, vampires, & lots of mystery to keep you intrigued & engaged.
The story starts a little slow & isolated. It makes you wonder what's about to happen then abruptly that changes when our lead character Anna gets swept away to help a kingdom under siege from dark elements.
The kingdom is led by Hadeon & his sister Alina. They both have secrets to be revealed throughout the story. Anna, a young novice woods witch that they hope can help them in their fight against the mysterious forces.
I really enjoyed all the characters & the unraveling mystery. I feel like we're owed more details about them. I'm hoping we'll continue to dig deeper into each of them in book 2. I really enjoyed the fact that the lead male character was written better than male leads often are in fantasy books. He comes across as a typical brooding, high on his horse royal, but he's written in a way that makes him seem very deep, caring, & a nobleman. I like how the women aren't your typical swooning damsels you often see. Instead, they are strong, independent warriors. I really enjoyed all the relationships developed during the story.
I feel very torn on my rating. A lot is left unresolved in this story. I feel the character stories weren't properly explored & the book was cut short of what it could've been. I do love the potential character trajectories, the fantasy elements, & the world being built. I'll give the story 5 a rating in hopes that everything I believe this story can be, will be fully delivered in the rest of the series. I look forward to book two & beyond!
February 19, 2023
Arc review time!! I’ve been on such a Romantasy kick lately and this satisfied most of my Romantasy desires.
Anna is a forest witch and who finds herself in the kingdom of Gora. She quickly befriends the castle’s inhabitants, and uncovers secrets. Events fall into place, and feelings come to light. But with light there’s darkness, and if not stopped, it would be the end of Gora. Aforetime is a dark fantasy romance about adventure, self-discovery, and the power of true love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the mystery behind it all really kept me going. This book has ZERO smut and the romance is SLOW BURN. Honestly I loved it and I feel like it complimented the story line really well. There was so much going on, earth shattering events kept happening. I didn’t feel like I missed the smut. The descriptions of the characters and their personalities was so good. I really wanted to be best friends with the girls. Hadeon was so protective in a very YA kind of way. It was not “touch her and you 💀”
There really wasn’t much that I didn’t like. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the second book. Some of the descriptions of events I had to reread a couple times because it didn't read as smoothly as the rest of the book or I'd get confused. But honestly it wasn't a huge thing and didn't take away from the book for me. The author made their cover art and some of the art in this video was done by them too so I was VERY impressed.
Anna is a forest witch and who finds herself in the kingdom of Gora. She quickly befriends the castle’s inhabitants, and uncovers secrets. Events fall into place, and feelings come to light. But with light there’s darkness, and if not stopped, it would be the end of Gora. Aforetime is a dark fantasy romance about adventure, self-discovery, and the power of true love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the mystery behind it all really kept me going. This book has ZERO smut and the romance is SLOW BURN. Honestly I loved it and I feel like it complimented the story line really well. There was so much going on, earth shattering events kept happening. I didn’t feel like I missed the smut. The descriptions of the characters and their personalities was so good. I really wanted to be best friends with the girls. Hadeon was so protective in a very YA kind of way. It was not “touch her and you 💀”
There really wasn’t much that I didn’t like. I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the second book. Some of the descriptions of events I had to reread a couple times because it didn't read as smoothly as the rest of the book or I'd get confused. But honestly it wasn't a huge thing and didn't take away from the book for me. The author made their cover art and some of the art in this video was done by them too so I was VERY impressed.
February 16, 2023
FRIENDS! I loved this book! Still wrapping my head around the fact that this was Lina’s debut novel. What a great story! I could easily have read this in a day- it was a real page turner.
Anna, abandoned by her family, comes upon a forest witch and is taken under her wing. Two years later she finds herself alone, taking care of the forest- protecting it.
Enter Hadeon (swoon) and his sister Alina. They abduct Anna and take her to castle Gora to help them fight those who have been destroying their village and murdering their people.
This fantasy story has a dragon (shifter), vampire, wolves, witches, a sorcerer, hunters, underwater mythical creatures- I might be missing some…and it’s a love story too! SO GOOD! I am a sucker for a story with all of it.
I don’t want to spoil too much for future readers so I am leaving out a lot of details in this review but let’s just say that the story has a few plot twists that I didn’t see coming and it ends on a cliffhanger; I can’t wait to find out what happens next. This was the first book of a series (official release date TBD) but you can get the first 8 chapters as a “sneak peek” on KU now.
Anna, abandoned by her family, comes upon a forest witch and is taken under her wing. Two years later she finds herself alone, taking care of the forest- protecting it.
Enter Hadeon (swoon) and his sister Alina. They abduct Anna and take her to castle Gora to help them fight those who have been destroying their village and murdering their people.
This fantasy story has a dragon (shifter), vampire, wolves, witches, a sorcerer, hunters, underwater mythical creatures- I might be missing some…and it’s a love story too! SO GOOD! I am a sucker for a story with all of it.
I don’t want to spoil too much for future readers so I am leaving out a lot of details in this review but let’s just say that the story has a few plot twists that I didn’t see coming and it ends on a cliffhanger; I can’t wait to find out what happens next. This was the first book of a series (official release date TBD) but you can get the first 8 chapters as a “sneak peek” on KU now.
July 19, 2023
I can say that I am very divided in my opinion.
I liked some parts of the book more than others. The first act is very solid and I liked all the setup.
The way the author presented the world and introduced us to all the characters I found very interesting.
I appreciate the relationship between Yaga and Anna and I wanted more of it.
In the second act however everything fell apart for me. Somehow I could not get into the story. This great "danger" for the characters in my opinion, failed to be the catalyst to move the story forward.
The third act I loved so so much! It's very different and full with action and character development.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked some parts of the book more than others. The first act is very solid and I liked all the setup.
The way the author presented the world and introduced us to all the characters I found very interesting.
I appreciate the relationship between Yaga and Anna and I wanted more of it.
In the second act however everything fell apart for me. Somehow I could not get into the story. This great "danger" for the characters in my opinion, failed to be the catalyst to move the story forward.
The third act I loved so so much! It's very different and full with action and character development.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 29, 2023
Ai thought this was a fantastic story full of characters that were well written and fully fleshed , the story was addictive, the pacing spot on and it was full of tension , drama and my favourite , a slow burn romance. I loved this so much and can’t wait to dive into the next, I love PNR and this is going to be one of my favourite series I can tell
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2023
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
3.5/5 ⭐️
❗️Disclaimer: 3.5 stars doesn’t mean I didn’t like the book, I quite enjoyed it. There were just some point that for me didn’t give it a higher ranking, but that doesn’t mean that someone else will feel the same. Please don’t take this review in a negative way! This are just my opinions on what I liked and didn’t like about the book. I will still continue this series because I liked the story a lot. ❗️
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eArc copy of the book.
At the start of this book I was unfortunately in a mini book slump so I didn’t have many expectations for it but as I read I quickly realized how wrong I was. This was a super fun short read and even though it took me longer than normal to read it (because of the slump) I still enjoyed it a lot. The story was really good and I liked meeting Yaga and finding more information about her. The world building was also really good and interesting.
The things I didn’t like was how fast paced everything was, everything felt rushed and for me it didn’t help me connect with the story and characters. I did like them but I didn’t feel emotionally connected to them and their struggles.
Overall this book was good and I enjoyed reading it! Of course there is room for improvement but the story was really interesting and I’m exited to continue it in the future!
3.5/5 ⭐️
❗️Disclaimer: 3.5 stars doesn’t mean I didn’t like the book, I quite enjoyed it. There were just some point that for me didn’t give it a higher ranking, but that doesn’t mean that someone else will feel the same. Please don’t take this review in a negative way! This are just my opinions on what I liked and didn’t like about the book. I will still continue this series because I liked the story a lot. ❗️
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eArc copy of the book.
At the start of this book I was unfortunately in a mini book slump so I didn’t have many expectations for it but as I read I quickly realized how wrong I was. This was a super fun short read and even though it took me longer than normal to read it (because of the slump) I still enjoyed it a lot. The story was really good and I liked meeting Yaga and finding more information about her. The world building was also really good and interesting.
The things I didn’t like was how fast paced everything was, everything felt rushed and for me it didn’t help me connect with the story and characters. I did like them but I didn’t feel emotionally connected to them and their struggles.
Overall this book was good and I enjoyed reading it! Of course there is room for improvement but the story was really interesting and I’m exited to continue it in the future!
April 25, 2023
I am floored by this story! The world building is so fantastical, especially when they went to the underwater world!! The plot was brilliant, and the pace made it hard to put down!! The characters are lovely, everyone has a past, whether they remember it or not. Anna is a really great character, with her character growth and her magic. Alina, the dragon shifter, is such a sweet character. She adores her brother and her friends. Then there is Bohdana, Alina’s best friend and an amazing warrior. And my favorite, the yummy Hadeon, the gorgeous and protective vampire. There are many other characters, many very interesting ones, but I’ll let you discover them for yourself, when you read this book. I HIGHLY recommend it if you enjoy romantic fantasy, a dark vampire romance, self-discovery, the power of true love, a very original and interesting story, and lots of fascinating characters and cool worlds.
I read this as an e-arc, and halfway through reading it, I bought the ebook and ordered the paperback. This is how much I loved it! I look forward to more from the Aforetime series!!!
I read this as an e-arc, and halfway through reading it, I bought the ebook and ordered the paperback. This is how much I loved it! I look forward to more from the Aforetime series!!!
May 19, 2023
Jeeez thats addictive. I just couldnt put it down or I had to otherwise would not stop at any points.
Let me say why its 5* and not almost 5 or 4.5 rounded or such.
Cover is amazing.
Worldbuilt is fantastic! Baba Yaga!!! Wow! Witches, mermans, vamps and dragons. You luv those? Then UR gonna love this book.
Its YA so slow burn no steam but perfect tension built and I looove all characters. I cant wait to see who’s gonna be in the next round.
It has an ending. So you get closure for at least Anna’s story which I looove again that I dont need to get bored by book5 but gets a perfect HEA for one but leaves some opening that Im desperate to know what more to come!
Ive not had a boring moment thru the book.
I didnt had any eyerolling from the heroine
You need any more encouragement?! No! You need this book. Go and grab it! Im keen to get my hands on b2!
Again Im more than greatful for @BookSirens for inviting me here as I received an advance review copy for free for this amazing boom, and I am more than happy leaving this review voluntarily.
Let me say why its 5* and not almost 5 or 4.5 rounded or such.
Cover is amazing.
Worldbuilt is fantastic! Baba Yaga!!! Wow! Witches, mermans, vamps and dragons. You luv those? Then UR gonna love this book.
Its YA so slow burn no steam but perfect tension built and I looove all characters. I cant wait to see who’s gonna be in the next round.
It has an ending. So you get closure for at least Anna’s story which I looove again that I dont need to get bored by book5 but gets a perfect HEA for one but leaves some opening that Im desperate to know what more to come!
Ive not had a boring moment thru the book.
I didnt had any eyerolling from the heroine
You need any more encouragement?! No! You need this book. Go and grab it! Im keen to get my hands on b2!
Again Im more than greatful for @BookSirens for inviting me here as I received an advance review copy for free for this amazing boom, and I am more than happy leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2023
This is a lovey YA Dark Fantasy Romance. It was definitely a page turner. The story was easy to pick up and the world building was good. But I became a lot more invested about halfway through when twists and turns came to light. The ending was fantastic, leaving you with some unanswered questions, but it had me thinking about it for days afterwards, which is always a good sign in my book.
There's a really cute romance developing between Anna and Hadeon. It's fairly intense at times - in an innocent way. I'm really looking forward to see how that evolves.
My favourite part was the bath tub scene - you'll have to read it to find out what I'm going on about, but it is really worth a read.
There's a really cute romance developing between Anna and Hadeon. It's fairly intense at times - in an innocent way. I'm really looking forward to see how that evolves.
My favourite part was the bath tub scene - you'll have to read it to find out what I'm going on about, but it is really worth a read.
February 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book and am appreciative to Lina for the early copy that I received of this book! Anna is a girl who was abandoned to the woods by her aunt and uncle when she was 13. She finds Baba Yaga and ends up living with her. She then is kidnapped and asked to help the town. She finds out its more than she is equipped for and goes seeking answers from beings Baba told her about. She ends up almost trapped by Lucien and thankfully Hadeon is there to help her. They come back to solve the problems that they are facing and they finally get free. I loved this story and cannot wait for the next book!
March 4, 2023
The story is about Anna the forest witch, who was taken in by Yaga herself, after being sent to the forest by her family. One night she is stolen from her home and finds herself in the Kingdom of Gora and is needed to solve a mystery. This leads to romance and adventure.
This is a slow-burn romance and there is no smut. I found the storyline worked well with the romantic pace. However, there were parts in the storyline that I had to reread because I was confused on how it had bounced there. The plot could have been smoother, but great story nonetheless. The ending was definitely something I did not see coming.
This is a slow-burn romance and there is no smut. I found the storyline worked well with the romantic pace. However, there were parts in the storyline that I had to reread because I was confused on how it had bounced there. The plot could have been smoother, but great story nonetheless. The ending was definitely something I did not see coming.
June 7, 2023
I purchased Aforetime and Aforetime: Cursed City simply because of the stunning covers, I didn't even read the book’s synopsis. It was a great price so I decided to have a “blind book date” and I'm so happy I did it. This book is an example why I will be 80 years old and will STILL read YA. Aforetime has everything I love in YA books; fantasy, loyal friendships, romance and a beautiful coming age story. I'm looking forward to the rest of the books in the series and other projects from Ravenhill.
April 1, 2023
This is a really lovely, action-packed fantasy adventure for teens/young adults. It's clean and refreshing, and the world-building is wonderful.
I lost myself in this fairy tale world and did not want to stop reading. The chapters are short, making it even harder to put down. The characters are likeable, and the plot is exciting. The romance is cute and slow burn.
This book is pure escapism. I highly recommend.
I lost myself in this fairy tale world and did not want to stop reading. The chapters are short, making it even harder to put down. The characters are likeable, and the plot is exciting. The romance is cute and slow burn.
This book is pure escapism. I highly recommend.
February 24, 2023
I enjoyed this debut read! I found it creative, and I kept wondering about the plot the whole way!
I'm a mood reader so sometimes I find it hard to get into some YA reads, but not this one!
Great job Lina!
I'm a mood reader so sometimes I find it hard to get into some YA reads, but not this one!
Great job Lina!
February 21, 2023
This book has a great plot and setting. I fell in love with the main character. It is full of mystery and is slow in relationship building. Which is good in my opinion
April 8, 2023
A dark romance with witches, vampires, lore and the unexpected. Completely keeps you on your toes. Thoroughly enjoyed this read.
July 24, 2023
AFORTIME Review
4/5 ⭐️
This debut novel is the 1st of a series of dark vampire fantasy romance with lots of adventure. In this story, the main male character falls first and this is very rare (at least for me) to find. Also, be ready for a VERY Slow Burn romance but don’t worry, you’re not gonna regret it, it’s totally worth the wait.
Some people may find the sequences of the story too fast, but for me, it was fine. I really enjoyed reading this.
The story begins with Anna, a beginner forest witch that finds herself in Gora. By the moment she realizes what is happening, she wanted to prove that she’s capable of helping Gora’s people even if she’s unsure that she’s right for the job. But when she dives into Gora’s mysteries, she puts herself in a dangerous place. Forbidden love, betrayals, secrets and many more are what you can expect this story.
Some of my favorite things:
This story has strong female characters which I love. Anna, Alina and Bohdana are gorgeous in their own way and you’re gonna love them all. It’s very easy to read.
I found Lina’s (the author) books because of bookstagram, all her posts about her books and their art, captured my attention and thanks to that, I read this book.
I sincerely read this book and I will read the others with the promise to give my very honest review no matter what. So thats why I’m sharing this one. Soon the review for the 2nd book will be ready too. Can’t wait to see what happens in Afortime: Cursed City.
4/5 ⭐️
This debut novel is the 1st of a series of dark vampire fantasy romance with lots of adventure. In this story, the main male character falls first and this is very rare (at least for me) to find. Also, be ready for a VERY Slow Burn romance but don’t worry, you’re not gonna regret it, it’s totally worth the wait.
Some people may find the sequences of the story too fast, but for me, it was fine. I really enjoyed reading this.
The story begins with Anna, a beginner forest witch that finds herself in Gora. By the moment she realizes what is happening, she wanted to prove that she’s capable of helping Gora’s people even if she’s unsure that she’s right for the job. But when she dives into Gora’s mysteries, she puts herself in a dangerous place. Forbidden love, betrayals, secrets and many more are what you can expect this story.
Some of my favorite things:
This story has strong female characters which I love. Anna, Alina and Bohdana are gorgeous in their own way and you’re gonna love them all. It’s very easy to read.
I found Lina’s (the author) books because of bookstagram, all her posts about her books and their art, captured my attention and thanks to that, I read this book.
I sincerely read this book and I will read the others with the promise to give my very honest review no matter what. So thats why I’m sharing this one. Soon the review for the 2nd book will be ready too. Can’t wait to see what happens in Afortime: Cursed City.
February 20, 2023
Disclaimer: I didn’t rate the book 3* because I didn’t like the book or the story. (Read review :))
First of all, a huge thank you to the author for providing me an eARC of the book!
After DNFing a book I was full of hope to read this ARC. I wasn’t disappointed! It was a fast and easy read and I really enjoyed that! I like the idea of the story, being thrown into the book, meeting Yaga (I love the fairytale about her hihi).
I didn’t like that everything happened so fast, which is -1* for me. Everything happened within what? A timespan of 2 weeks as far as I could tell? Yes, they were trapped in a timeloop, but they still didn’t know each other because of losing their memories.
The second -1* was for me, that, due to everything to happen too fast, the book lacked of depth (especially with the characters in my opinion). I couldn’t build the connection to the characters in that short time.
But, all in one, I really enjoyed this book! There’s some points to improve in the future (the ones I mentioned) but besides that the world building and the idea of the time loop storyline was something new for me!!👏🏻
Don’t take this review in any very negative way, I’m just giving a feedback and writing down my personal opinions. This book can indeed be a 5* read to younger readers in the NA and YA spectrum🤍✨
First of all, a huge thank you to the author for providing me an eARC of the book!
After DNFing a book I was full of hope to read this ARC. I wasn’t disappointed! It was a fast and easy read and I really enjoyed that! I like the idea of the story, being thrown into the book, meeting Yaga (I love the fairytale about her hihi).
I didn’t like that everything happened so fast, which is -1* for me. Everything happened within what? A timespan of 2 weeks as far as I could tell? Yes, they were trapped in a timeloop, but they still didn’t know each other because of losing their memories.
The second -1* was for me, that, due to everything to happen too fast, the book lacked of depth (especially with the characters in my opinion). I couldn’t build the connection to the characters in that short time.
But, all in one, I really enjoyed this book! There’s some points to improve in the future (the ones I mentioned) but besides that the world building and the idea of the time loop storyline was something new for me!!👏🏻
Don’t take this review in any very negative way, I’m just giving a feedback and writing down my personal opinions. This book can indeed be a 5* read to younger readers in the NA and YA spectrum🤍✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2024
Audiobook review.
I very much enjoyed this story, and what really made it special for me was the narration. I found the voice of Sarah Emmer so incredibly soothing that I listened to the audiobook at its regular pace instead of speeding it up as I do most of the time.
The worldbuilding is not too complicated, which I prefer when listening to audiobooks.
The story felt very much like a slice of life fantasy story with a slowburn romantic subplot, and I enjoyed getting to know Anna and the other inhabitants of Gora castle throughout this story.
I look forward to getting to know these characters a little better in the next book!
I very much enjoyed this story, and what really made it special for me was the narration. I found the voice of Sarah Emmer so incredibly soothing that I listened to the audiobook at its regular pace instead of speeding it up as I do most of the time.
The worldbuilding is not too complicated, which I prefer when listening to audiobooks.
The story felt very much like a slice of life fantasy story with a slowburn romantic subplot, and I enjoyed getting to know Anna and the other inhabitants of Gora castle throughout this story.
I look forward to getting to know these characters a little better in the next book!
May 4, 2023
Loved this book. Everything I like in a fantasy story. There was action and romance. The story was hartwarming with Anna's journey and finding a place she could call a home. Also becoming more than she thought she would be. Thought it was action-packed, and the story was a good pace, allowing the reader to get carried onlong on the ride to find what the mystery was. I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
March 23, 2024
I received this audiobook as an ARC read. Thank you to the author for the opportunity!
What a wonderful story! I was captivated from the beginning. I needed to know what was happening in the kingdom!! This is a whimsical tale with a clean slow burn romance with a variety of characters - vampires, witches, shifters, wolves…oh my! I wholeheartedly recommend!
What a wonderful story! I was captivated from the beginning. I needed to know what was happening in the kingdom!! This is a whimsical tale with a clean slow burn romance with a variety of characters - vampires, witches, shifters, wolves…oh my! I wholeheartedly recommend!
March 1, 2023
Super fun short book!
Reminded me of reading a grim fairytale with its dark forest vibes 🌳
Looking forward to reading more !
Reminded me of reading a grim fairytale with its dark forest vibes 🌳
Looking forward to reading more !
August 19, 2023
My Rating: ❤️❤️❤️.5
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks, BookSirens.
Summary: Anna is a forest witch living her life when one day she's taken to the Kingdom of Gora. In Gora, brother and sister, Alina and Hadeon, say they need her help to fight a deadly foe. But she quickly realizes all is not as it seems.
General Thoughts: I 100% read this because of the cover (the red forest version). I won't even lie about that. Like take another look at the cover. Stunning. I didn't have a clear sense of what the book would be about after reading the synopsis, so I went into this one knowing very little.
Things I liked:
-It has a very interesting concept. I won't say much because to do so would give away too much of the plot, but the author had a very interesting story idea and plotwise she executed very well with that idea.
-For the most part, I enjoyed the writing style and pacing. I was engaged for the whole story.
-By the end, I was very curious to know more about the world and characters that she created.
-I enjoyed the romantasy elements.
I thought could have been better:
-The book kind of starts middle of the action, like you have no clue who the character is. All you know is a girl is running through the forest for her life. There appeared to be kind of a dual timeline thing going on for awhile, but it confused me. Like you don't even know the main character's name for several chapters.
-Because you're kind of thrown in (and part of that is for a good reason revealed later), I felt like I was left with a lot of questions about the world-building. I found myself confused as to how she became a witch, what made somebody a witch, the connection between Gora and her world, and a lot.
-I didn't feel like I really knew Haedon or Alina very well. For Haedon being the romance interest, I would have liked to see him fleshed out more (I'm hopeful that happens in the second book). I feel like I got to know Anna through her actions, but I also didn't have a clear sense of who she was.
-At times, the writing felt a bit choppy to me (enough to pull me out), but overall I liked it.
Given some of the plot turns, some of this makes sense, and I'm hoping it's improved in the second book because I am curious enough to read the second. I feel I'll have a lot better sense of what I think of everything after I read book two.
Steam Meter: 💞 This is a clean, sweet YA romance with no steam. Suitable for all ages.
Romantic Tropes
-single first-person POV
-series
-romantasy
-YA
-clean, sweet romance
-vampire witch romance
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. Thanks, BookSirens.
Summary: Anna is a forest witch living her life when one day she's taken to the Kingdom of Gora. In Gora, brother and sister, Alina and Hadeon, say they need her help to fight a deadly foe. But she quickly realizes all is not as it seems.
General Thoughts: I 100% read this because of the cover (the red forest version). I won't even lie about that. Like take another look at the cover. Stunning. I didn't have a clear sense of what the book would be about after reading the synopsis, so I went into this one knowing very little.
Things I liked:
-It has a very interesting concept. I won't say much because to do so would give away too much of the plot, but the author had a very interesting story idea and plotwise she executed very well with that idea.
-For the most part, I enjoyed the writing style and pacing. I was engaged for the whole story.
-By the end, I was very curious to know more about the world and characters that she created.
-I enjoyed the romantasy elements.
I thought could have been better:
-The book kind of starts middle of the action, like you have no clue who the character is. All you know is a girl is running through the forest for her life. There appeared to be kind of a dual timeline thing going on for awhile, but it confused me. Like you don't even know the main character's name for several chapters.
-Because you're kind of thrown in (and part of that is for a good reason revealed later), I felt like I was left with a lot of questions about the world-building. I found myself confused as to how she became a witch, what made somebody a witch, the connection between Gora and her world, and a lot.
-I didn't feel like I really knew Haedon or Alina very well. For Haedon being the romance interest, I would have liked to see him fleshed out more (I'm hopeful that happens in the second book). I feel like I got to know Anna through her actions, but I also didn't have a clear sense of who she was.
-At times, the writing felt a bit choppy to me (enough to pull me out), but overall I liked it.
Given some of the plot turns, some of this makes sense, and I'm hoping it's improved in the second book because I am curious enough to read the second. I feel I'll have a lot better sense of what I think of everything after I read book two.
Steam Meter: 💞 This is a clean, sweet YA romance with no steam. Suitable for all ages.
Romantic Tropes
-single first-person POV
-series
-romantasy
-YA
-clean, sweet romance
-vampire witch romance
You can read more of my reviews at mylastromance.com. You can also find me on Insta @mylastromancenovel.
July 3, 2023
It's not often anymore that I can finish reading a book in less than two days, but I had to find out what was going on at the castle of Gora! Anna is a forest witch living all alone in a hut after her mentor dies. She is kidnapped by siblings Alina and Hadeon who need a witches help to get rid of a great evil that has taken over the woods near Gora.
The beginning of this book drew me in, with Anna running through the woods and meeting Baba Yaga at her hut. From what I knew about Baba Yaga, I was a little wary for Anna, but I loved that Yaga takes her in instead. Even though we see Yaga in moments throughout the book, I wish there was more time spent with her, especially the times by the river. It would have been great to see more of Anna's development into the forest witch she becomes.
The castle of Gora and it's inhabitants were very interesting, especially a lot of the relationship dynamics. Towards the end of the book, there were some real twists that left me surprised. And not to spoil anything, but I wanted to know more about the villain and the person that was helping him. Some clues were dropped that I can recognize looking back, but I just felt like there could be more.
Overall, a very enjoyable book and I'm ready to read book two, Aforetime: Cursed City.
The beginning of this book drew me in, with Anna running through the woods and meeting Baba Yaga at her hut. From what I knew about Baba Yaga, I was a little wary for Anna, but I loved that Yaga takes her in instead. Even though we see Yaga in moments throughout the book, I wish there was more time spent with her, especially the times by the river. It would have been great to see more of Anna's development into the forest witch she becomes.
The castle of Gora and it's inhabitants were very interesting, especially a lot of the relationship dynamics. Towards the end of the book, there were some real twists that left me surprised. And not to spoil anything, but I wanted to know more about the villain and the person that was helping him. Some clues were dropped that I can recognize looking back, but I just felt like there could be more.
Overall, a very enjoyable book and I'm ready to read book two, Aforetime: Cursed City.
August 12, 2023
When I tell you this book checked off all my little boxes for a fantastic fantasy book, LET. ME. TELL. YOU. It did not disappoint!
It's got vampires, wizards, dragon shifters, witches, Baba Yaga, mermaid, and sea witches! This was everything my little heart NEEDED! *swoon*
And my ultimate cherry on top?! An enemies to lovers, slow burn romance. I'm squealing with delight just typing this out for you!
And to wrap this entire amazing , magical story up with the most beautiful bow? The most epic fight scene that had my adrenaline bursting for the characters! I'm still waiting for the crash.
I absolutely can't wait to dive into book two. I absolutely MUST know what happens next.
If you're a fan of pure fantasy, with no smut, but a slow burn romance, I absolutely CANNOT recommend this enough. It's a brilliant read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶/5
It's got vampires, wizards, dragon shifters, witches, Baba Yaga, mermaid, and sea witches! This was everything my little heart NEEDED! *swoon*
And my ultimate cherry on top?! An enemies to lovers, slow burn romance. I'm squealing with delight just typing this out for you!
And to wrap this entire amazing , magical story up with the most beautiful bow? The most epic fight scene that had my adrenaline bursting for the characters! I'm still waiting for the crash.
I absolutely can't wait to dive into book two. I absolutely MUST know what happens next.
If you're a fan of pure fantasy, with no smut, but a slow burn romance, I absolutely CANNOT recommend this enough. It's a brilliant read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶/5
July 5, 2023
A forest witch is taken from her home and brought to a foreign village where she is asked to help them. As time passes, she falls in love with the people and the village. This is a YA Fantasy.
I had a great time with this read that was incredibly simple and speedy, and I was captivated by the one-of-a-kind tale and the varied look at some of the more common fantasy elements. I was really drawn to Haedon’s character and wanted to read more about him.
I felt the book was too brief for my liking, I wanted MORE. I wished I could stay in this world with the interesting characters for longer and explore it more because I didn't want the story to be over.
I had a great time with this read that was incredibly simple and speedy, and I was captivated by the one-of-a-kind tale and the varied look at some of the more common fantasy elements. I was really drawn to Haedon’s character and wanted to read more about him.
I felt the book was too brief for my liking, I wanted MORE. I wished I could stay in this world with the interesting characters for longer and explore it more because I didn't want the story to be over.
January 5, 2024
It is a good book with interesting characters. It is hard to say much about this book without giving something away, but let's try.
Anna is a witch who has lived alone in the woods for a long time, but when she is asked to help a brother, sister, and their people, she feels compelled to help. Almost out of familiarity. Though the threat seems magical in nature, there are few clues and very few answers.
There is a lot of potential for this series. I think a number of characters will be explored, and so can their powers and future roles, rescues, and relationships. I also think a lot of the characters' pasts will also make for interesting stories.
Anna is a witch who has lived alone in the woods for a long time, but when she is asked to help a brother, sister, and their people, she feels compelled to help. Almost out of familiarity. Though the threat seems magical in nature, there are few clues and very few answers.
There is a lot of potential for this series. I think a number of characters will be explored, and so can their powers and future roles, rescues, and relationships. I also think a lot of the characters' pasts will also make for interesting stories.
August 24, 2023
This is the first book of the Aforetime series, and a debut novel as well.
This is a slow burn, fantasy romance book. There is zero smut. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed it anyway! There was so much happening, with the world building and the characters and mystery, that I really didn't miss it.
Some of the events I had to go back and re-read because I didn't follow them 100% the first time; they maybe weren't written as clearly or were a bit rushed, but it didn't take away from the overall book and plot.
The second book in the series is also out, and I am off to read that next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is a slow burn, fantasy romance book. There is zero smut. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed it anyway! There was so much happening, with the world building and the characters and mystery, that I really didn't miss it.
Some of the events I had to go back and re-read because I didn't follow them 100% the first time; they maybe weren't written as clearly or were a bit rushed, but it didn't take away from the overall book and plot.
The second book in the series is also out, and I am off to read that next.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2023
The first few chapters felt a little rushed, but then it slowed down to a really comfortable pace.
There's not only one, but three strong female characters which I enjoyed quite a lot.
It was easy to follow the story and the twists and turns came unexpected and were well done.
I'm not a big romantasy reader but this was a lovely palate cleanser to all the grimdark I usually read.
Will definitely read more by this author and am definitely going to read the other books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There's not only one, but three strong female characters which I enjoyed quite a lot.
It was easy to follow the story and the twists and turns came unexpected and were well done.
I'm not a big romantasy reader but this was a lovely palate cleanser to all the grimdark I usually read.
Will definitely read more by this author and am definitely going to read the other books in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 25, 2023
Honestly I’m finding the book irritating and disjointed. The characters make no sense and the interaction is just off. The dialogue is jarring in the speech manorisms. At times the speech tries to match the story and the scenes then off Anna goes talking with a much more modern feel using phrases and current dialogue that just does not match what the story line is trying to be. Can’t say the I am enjoying the book much at all.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
ARC copy with voluntary review.
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