What do you think?
Rate this book
The Legends of Thezmarr #1
Blood & Steel
Perfect for fans of The Bridge Kingdom, From Blood and Ash and The Witcher, BLOOD & STEEL is an epic romantic fantasy with enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn spice, found family, and a sprawling world of magic and monsters.
With her death foretold, Althea Zoltaire only has three years to become what she’s always dreamed of being: a warrior legend.
Women are forbidden to wield blades, so she has trained in secret her entire life. Now racing against the clock, she fights to secure her place in the elite guild charged with the protection of the five kingdoms.
The sparring and hazing of the new trainees border on deadly, but even more dangerous is her growing attraction to Wilder Hawthorne, her unwilling warrior chaperone.
All around them, schemes are afoot and darkness looms.
Will Althea pass the perilous initiation test and take her place as a champion of Thezmarr – or will the invading evil snatch away her dream before it starts?
If you like fierce sword-wielding heroines and brooding, tortured heroes, you will devour this sexy, addictive fantasy adventure.
Blood & Steel is the gripping first book in the heart-pounding, epic romantic fantasy series, The Legends of Thezmarr.
With her death foretold, Althea Zoltaire only has three years to become what she’s always dreamed of being: a warrior legend.
Women are forbidden to wield blades, so she has trained in secret her entire life. Now racing against the clock, she fights to secure her place in the elite guild charged with the protection of the five kingdoms.
The sparring and hazing of the new trainees border on deadly, but even more dangerous is her growing attraction to Wilder Hawthorne, her unwilling warrior chaperone.
All around them, schemes are afoot and darkness looms.
Will Althea pass the perilous initiation test and take her place as a champion of Thezmarr – or will the invading evil snatch away her dream before it starts?
If you like fierce sword-wielding heroines and brooding, tortured heroes, you will devour this sexy, addictive fantasy adventure.
Blood & Steel is the gripping first book in the heart-pounding, epic romantic fantasy series, The Legends of Thezmarr.
550 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 13, 2023
About the author
Helen Scheuerer
40 books2,513 followersHelen Scheuerer is the fantasy author of the bestselling series, The Oremere Chronicles, the Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet and The Legends of Thezmarr. Her work has been highly praised for its strong, flawed female characters and its action-packed plots.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
Helen’s love of writing and books led her to pursue a creative writing degree and a Masters of Publishing. She has been a full-time author since 2018 and now lives amidst the mountains in New Zealand where she is constantly dreaming up new stories.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,195 reviews
October 10, 2023
I had a huge rant on here. Deleted it. Now I’m reviewing again. Listen. I wanted to love this book. It has everything I love in a romantasy. But the writing felt too YA. Even the actions and dialogue felt like the MCs were in their teens. Not 20s and 30s. Also, Wilder is way too broody. He had zero personality. Besides being “hot”. Ugh I hate being disappointed when all my mutuals love a book: I always feel bad for not liking it 😕
May 5, 2024
"𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓶𝓸𝓼𝓽 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓼 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓯𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓮𝓭 𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓼𝓽 𝓲𝓷 𝓵𝓲𝓯���, 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓲𝓷 𝓭𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓱"
⚔️⚒
"𝓘𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓮𝓮𝓴 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓷 𝓪 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓶𝓮𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼, 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓾𝓵 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓷 𝓴𝓷𝓸𝔀𝓵𝓮𝓭𝓰𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓽𝓸 𝔀𝓲𝓮𝓵𝓭 𝓲𝓽"
So I really enjoyed this book. We follow Althea who has had her death foretold, she is to die at the age of 27 and has 3 years left to live. She wants nothing more than to become a warrior legend. Women are not allowed to wield weapons due to the prophecy that was passed down long ago and so she has trained in secret her entire life:
🕊⚔️
"𝓘𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓭𝓸𝔀 𝓸𝓯 𝓪 𝓯𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓮𝓷 𝓴𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓭𝓸𝓶, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝔂𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓽𝓸𝓻𝓶, 𝓐 𝓭𝓪𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓸𝓯 𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓮𝓵𝓭 𝓪 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓻𝓾𝓵𝓮 𝓭𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓱 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓦𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓴𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓬𝓴𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓭, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝓷𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓭𝓪𝔂𝓼, 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓥𝓮𝓲𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓪𝓵𝓵, 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓽𝓲𝓭𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓷 𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓭𝓻𝓪𝔀𝓷, 𝓐 𝓭𝓪𝔀𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓯𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓫𝓵𝓸𝓸𝓭"
The first 40% of this book went by so fast for me, I mean I could not flip the pages fast enough.. the pacing slowed for me a bit in the middle but not to the point where I was ever bored. This is definitely a horseback traveling type of fantasy from one kingdom to another.
Scheuerer's writing is so smooth and the story so easy to digest without taking away from any world building aspects that I felt were weaved into the story flawlessly. Short chapters, quick pace, I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next on this adventure.
I will say that, FOR ME it read more like a YA novel than a NA novel which I'm totally fine with. I had a little trouble gaging the age of our main characters, we know that Thea is 24 but she really read more like a 16 year old and I had a hard time figuring out what the age of Wilder our MMC is- because of this I didn't really like their relationship. Didn't feel the chemistry there. I loved them individually, I think I just couldn't get them to gel together in my mind in book 1 but I have high hopes moving fwd. Other than that, really good start to the series and I can't wait for book 2!
⚔ 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐞
⚔ 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮
⚔ 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬
⚔ 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲
⚔ 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬
⚔ 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬
⚔ 𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫
"𝓐 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝓷 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓹 𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓹𝓮𝓷 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓭, 𝓰𝓾𝓪𝓻𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓯𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓪𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝓲𝓭𝓮, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓯𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓼." ˖⁺‧₊˚✦
⚔️⚒
"𝓘𝓯 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓮𝓮𝓴 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓷 𝓪 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓶𝓮𝓷 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓷𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼, 𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝓹𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓾𝓵 𝓽𝓱𝓪𝓷 𝓴𝓷𝓸𝔀𝓵𝓮𝓭𝓰𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓪𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓽𝔂 𝓽𝓸 𝔀𝓲𝓮𝓵𝓭 𝓲𝓽"
So I really enjoyed this book. We follow Althea who has had her death foretold, she is to die at the age of 27 and has 3 years left to live. She wants nothing more than to become a warrior legend. Women are not allowed to wield weapons due to the prophecy that was passed down long ago and so she has trained in secret her entire life:
🕊⚔️
"𝓘𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓭𝓸𝔀 𝓸𝓯 𝓪 𝓯𝓪𝓵𝓵𝓮𝓷 𝓴𝓲𝓷𝓰𝓭𝓸𝓶, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝔂𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓽𝓸𝓻𝓶, 𝓐 𝓭𝓪𝓾𝓰𝓱𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓸𝓯 𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓮𝓵𝓭 𝓪 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓻𝓾𝓵𝓮 𝓭𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓱 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓸𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻. 𝓦𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓴𝓲𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓬𝓴𝓮𝓷𝓮𝓭, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝓷𝓭 𝓸𝓯 𝓭𝓪𝔂𝓼, 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓥𝓮𝓲𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓯𝓪𝓵𝓵, 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓽𝓲𝓭𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓽𝓾𝓻𝓷 𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓫𝓵𝓪𝓭𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓭𝓻𝓪𝔀𝓷, 𝓐 𝓭𝓪𝔀𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓯𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓫𝓵𝓸𝓸𝓭"
The first 40% of this book went by so fast for me, I mean I could not flip the pages fast enough.. the pacing slowed for me a bit in the middle but not to the point where I was ever bored. This is definitely a horseback traveling type of fantasy from one kingdom to another.
Scheuerer's writing is so smooth and the story so easy to digest without taking away from any world building aspects that I felt were weaved into the story flawlessly. Short chapters, quick pace, I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next on this adventure.
I will say that, FOR ME it read more like a YA novel than a NA novel which I'm totally fine with. I had a little trouble gaging the age of our main characters, we know that Thea is 24 but she really read more like a 16 year old and I had a hard time figuring out what the age of Wilder our MMC is- because of this I didn't really like their relationship. Didn't feel the chemistry there. I loved them individually, I think I just couldn't get them to gel together in my mind in book 1 but I have high hopes moving fwd. Other than that, really good start to the series and I can't wait for book 2!
⚔ 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐜𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐝𝐢𝐞
⚔ 𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮
⚔ 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐠𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐬
⚔ 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲
⚔ 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬
⚔ 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬
⚔ 𝐆𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐨𝐫
"𝓐 𝓽𝓻𝓾𝓮 𝓶𝓪𝓷 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓱𝓮𝓵𝓹 𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓹𝓮𝓷 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓭, 𝓰𝓾𝓪𝓻𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓯𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓪𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓼𝓲𝓭𝓮, 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓯𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓭𝓪𝓻𝓴𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓼 𝓬𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓼." ˖⁺‧₊˚✦
February 20, 2023
Eugh I don’t know why I’m having such bad luck with books lately.
This was a massive cliche of a book, i felt like i knew what was going to happen before it even happened.
I disliked both of the main characters, they both came across as childish and predictable.. grumpy hero cares about her secretly but doesn’t know how to show it because of damaged past VS special heroine who’s not like other girls.
I get it. I know exactly where this is going.
Don’t really understand all the rave reviews on this book, but you do you💫
This was a massive cliche of a book, i felt like i knew what was going to happen before it even happened.
I disliked both of the main characters, they both came across as childish and predictable.. grumpy hero cares about her secretly but doesn’t know how to show it because of damaged past VS special heroine who’s not like other girls.
I get it. I know exactly where this is going.
Don’t really understand all the rave reviews on this book, but you do you💫
June 10, 2024
This was such a fun time.
I loved how Thea felt so realistic and her reactions to uncomfortable situations weren’t exaggerated or ott as we normally see stubborn fmc’s dying on stupid hills that only hurt themselves bc of their excessive pride. Thea knew when to pick her battles. Was strong and assertive yet soft and emotional. Her personality was SO refreshing I loved it.
Wilder had me giggling and kicking my feet, blushing over the smallest things he’d do or say. I loved how he has a fully fleshed out backstory and isn’t only a side piece for Thea. I love seeing my fmcs thrive but i want their partners to also have character growth. It’s more impactful to me when they grow and evolve together.
I loveeee Wren despite whatever happened towards the end. She’s my fav character in this book.
I felt slightly off about the pacing towards the end but it’s also one of the things that made this book rlly bingeable. It had me hooked from page one and the writing was effortless.
Overall I enjoyeddd it and I genuinely am grateful for this book bc it saved me from what would’ve been an excruciating reading slump.
I cannot wait to read the prequel 🤭🤭🤭
I loved how Thea felt so realistic and her reactions to uncomfortable situations weren’t exaggerated or ott as we normally see stubborn fmc’s dying on stupid hills that only hurt themselves bc of their excessive pride. Thea knew when to pick her battles. Was strong and assertive yet soft and emotional. Her personality was SO refreshing I loved it.
Wilder had me giggling and kicking my feet, blushing over the smallest things he’d do or say. I loved how he has a fully fleshed out backstory and isn’t only a side piece for Thea. I love seeing my fmcs thrive but i want their partners to also have character growth. It’s more impactful to me when they grow and evolve together.
I loveeee Wren despite whatever happened towards the end. She’s my fav character in this book.
I felt slightly off about the pacing towards the end but it’s also one of the things that made this book rlly bingeable. It had me hooked from page one and the writing was effortless.
Overall I enjoyeddd it and I genuinely am grateful for this book bc it saved me from what would’ve been an excruciating reading slump.
I cannot wait to read the prequel 🤭🤭🤭
September 10, 2024
”A true man won’t cut you down as you fight your battles, nor will he fight them for you. A true man will help sharpen your sword, guard your back and fight at your side, in the face of whatever darkness comes.”
i flew through this book, i was immediately sucked into Althea’s mission to become a warrior in a world where women aren’t allowed to do so— especially as she’s set to die when she turns 27 in 3 years. im sure we’re all used to the “broody, doesn’t let anyone close” type of mmc and that’s the case with Wilder who’s a bit of a legend on the battlefield but i was eating up the tension he had with Thea and the way he pushed her to be better. i actually really loved Thea’s friends Malik, Cal and Kipp.. they must be protected cause im obsessed with them. as someone who’s a sucker for training sequences, this has tons of that so i didn’t have room to complain about anything really. i don’t think this is the best book in the world or the most original by any means but i had a lot of fun reading it and can’t wait to continue on in the series as soon as possible!
i flew through this book, i was immediately sucked into Althea’s mission to become a warrior in a world where women aren’t allowed to do so— especially as she’s set to die when she turns 27 in 3 years. im sure we’re all used to the “broody, doesn’t let anyone close” type of mmc and that’s the case with Wilder who’s a bit of a legend on the battlefield but i was eating up the tension he had with Thea and the way he pushed her to be better. i actually really loved Thea’s friends Malik, Cal and Kipp.. they must be protected cause im obsessed with them. as someone who’s a sucker for training sequences, this has tons of that so i didn’t have room to complain about anything really. i don’t think this is the best book in the world or the most original by any means but i had a lot of fun reading it and can’t wait to continue on in the series as soon as possible!
July 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded up! ‘ You’re beautiful, you know.’
‘You mean if I wore dresses and acted more like a girl?’
‘No. You’re beautiful as you are. And I’d wager even more so with steel in your hand and the blood of your enemies splattered across your face.’
Wheeeew 🥹🥵Don’t you just love it when a random read takes your breath away?
And don’t you just love it when the side characters grab your heart as much as the MCs??? Kipp and Cal must be protected at all costs in this series or I’ll RIOT xo
Too emotionally invested to write a proper review so all I can say is this:
➡️ Thea and Wilder 4eva
➡️ Malik, Kipp and Cal, I’d die for you guys, no exaggeration
➡️give that fine bear slayer Torj a love story of his own PLEASE
➡️Sebatos Barlowe, I hope your dick falls off xo
➡️ the problem is men. Literally, men are always the problem.
‘No woman is responsible for the weak acts of a man who’s had his masculinity so easily threatened,’ Wren girl, you are wise beyond your years with these words.
Be right back, going to go binge read this series and make it my whole personality for the next week xoxox
‘You mean if I wore dresses and acted more like a girl?’
‘No. You’re beautiful as you are. And I’d wager even more so with steel in your hand and the blood of your enemies splattered across your face.’
Wheeeew 🥹🥵Don’t you just love it when a random read takes your breath away?
And don’t you just love it when the side characters grab your heart as much as the MCs??? Kipp and Cal must be protected at all costs in this series or I’ll RIOT xo
Too emotionally invested to write a proper review so all I can say is this:
➡️ Thea and Wilder 4eva
➡️ Malik, Kipp and Cal, I’d die for you guys, no exaggeration
➡️give that fine bear slayer Torj a love story of his own PLEASE
➡️Sebatos Barlowe, I hope your dick falls off xo
➡️ the problem is men. Literally, men are always the problem.
‘No woman is responsible for the weak acts of a man who’s had his masculinity so easily threatened,’ Wren girl, you are wise beyond your years with these words.
Be right back, going to go binge read this series and make it my whole personality for the next week xoxox
February 17, 2023
i'm super disappointed with how this turned out.
the premise is super interesting, but the execution wasn't the best. i love the idea of thea knowing her death-date and seeking to become a legend in the time she has left. unfortunately i found that to be overshadowed by the other shortcomings of this novel.
first off, i couldn't get on board with theas character. i wanted so badly to like her but i just couldn't. she was constantly saying or doing the most ridiculous shit and i couldn't get past it. a good example being that whole situation was outrageously unbelievable and gave me whiplash from how quickly everything happened. this type of super unbelievable and rushed action sequence was repeated many times over throughout the rest of the novel.
sadly i wasn't super into the romance either. wilder (the love interest) was literally just a hunk of meat. the entirety of his thoughts consist of; having sex with thea, protecting thea, or needing to stay away from thea. i found him to be a major alpha-douche and super moody 24/7. the chemistry was not doing it for me.
all of the reviews so far have been raving about this but sadly it just wasn't for me.
the premise is super interesting, but the execution wasn't the best. i love the idea of thea knowing her death-date and seeking to become a legend in the time she has left. unfortunately i found that to be overshadowed by the other shortcomings of this novel.
first off, i couldn't get on board with theas character. i wanted so badly to like her but i just couldn't. she was constantly saying or doing the most ridiculous shit and i couldn't get past it. a good example being that whole situation was outrageously unbelievable and gave me whiplash from how quickly everything happened. this type of super unbelievable and rushed action sequence was repeated many times over throughout the rest of the novel.
sadly i wasn't super into the romance either. wilder (the love interest) was literally just a hunk of meat. the entirety of his thoughts consist of; having sex with thea, protecting thea, or needing to stay away from thea. i found him to be a major alpha-douche and super moody 24/7. the chemistry was not doing it for me.
all of the reviews so far have been raving about this but sadly it just wasn't for me.
January 29, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
You can tell this is the 10th book the author has written, it’s so easy to read - but that doesn’t mean it’s simple in its writing.
The world building is seamless, the plot constantly keeps you engaged & invested in the story, the hidden Easter eggs give you just enough foreshadowing without slapping you over the head, the FMC is interesting & strong & the love dynamic & tension between Thea & Wilder Hawthorne is PERFECTION !
I absolutely devoured this book, I didn’t want to put it down & I’m not only invested in the world & characters - I am itching to see what happens next!
For an adult Romantasy debut (previously the author has written epic YA fantasy series) I think this was extremely well done. It hits all the notes you want in an epic fantasy adventure but with a FMC that thinks like an adult & more adult themes.
I can’t wait for B2!
The author provided me with an arc for an honest review
You can tell this is the 10th book the author has written, it’s so easy to read - but that doesn’t mean it’s simple in its writing.
The world building is seamless, the plot constantly keeps you engaged & invested in the story, the hidden Easter eggs give you just enough foreshadowing without slapping you over the head, the FMC is interesting & strong & the love dynamic & tension between Thea & Wilder Hawthorne is PERFECTION !
I absolutely devoured this book, I didn’t want to put it down & I’m not only invested in the world & characters - I am itching to see what happens next!
For an adult Romantasy debut (previously the author has written epic YA fantasy series) I think this was extremely well done. It hits all the notes you want in an epic fantasy adventure but with a FMC that thinks like an adult & more adult themes.
I can’t wait for B2!
The author provided me with an arc for an honest review
August 1, 2024
Literally my fav book of 2024 so far! It’s giving fourth wing but I enjoyed this better. No miscommunication and our MMC is giving Xaden mixed with Kaan Vaegor. Found family, forbidden love, military training, it’s got EVERYTHING! If you haven’t read this yet… what are you doing?
September 6, 2024
4.75 ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗
Wow!!! Where do I even begin?
This book was GORGEOUS. The characters, the plot, the pacing, THE SLOW BURN, the pining, just everything was soooooooo good. Even when not much was happening, I still found myself not wanting to put this book down. It was so entertaining and intriguing from beginning to end.
It was a little predictable, but I didn’t mind as it made up for it in other aspects. The writing was easy to read, but was not simple by any means. Helen Scheuerer truly paints a beautiful picture with her words.
₊‧.°.⋆✮⋆.°.‧₊Characters₊‧.°.⋆✮⋆.°.‧₊
Thea: What a lovely fmc. She was fierce, funny, and very entertaining to read about. Thea is strong and determined to get even stronger. She literally spends her free time training and genuinely ENJOYS it. She’s very caring and soft, but knows how to stand up for herself and the people she cares for. And best of all, she isn’t annoying like a lot of fmcs in fantasy books end up being.
Wilder: This man… Just wow. He falls into your typical broody mmc stereotype, but he truly is great. He’s strong and protective, but knows that Thea isn’t useless and doesn’t coddle her like she’s a child. He makes it clear that he understands she wants to train and get stronger, and he actually makes an effort to guide her. He was so sweet and is definitely a new favorite of mine.
Kipp: I would take a bullet for this man. He is an ANGEL. Kipp added a sense of humor and lightheartedness to all the scenes he was in. I found myself smiling, and even laughing out loud, every time he made an appearance. He’s a very loyal and caring friend to Thea, and doesn’t deserve half the shit he got from the other shieldbearers :<
Cal: I really did love Cal. Similarly to Kipp, he was always a joy to read about. He’s funny, while also being realistic with some of his… reactions. He’s able to realize his mistakes and ask for forgiveness when need be.
Seb: WHEN I CATCH YOU…🤬🤬
I won’t go into more detail about Seb or the other characters but there were so many side characters I grew to love as well.
Now let me talk about the dynamics in this book because I’m obsessed. Thea and Wilder actually have conversations about themselves, and they get to know each other for a while. This is something that seems to always be replaced by insta-lust dynamics in a lot of books. He cares so deeply about her and the development and pacing of their relationship was delicious. It was very slowburn with the right amount of tension and longing in between to keep you at bay. The only thing I kinda disliked was the smidge of miscommunication that happened a couple times. It gets corrected later on, but nothing irks me more than miscommunication.
The friendship between Thea, Cal, and Kipp was so heartwarming. It’s so clear how much they all care about each other. They just work so well together?? The friendly banter, the jokes, the loyalty, and just all their interactions made it such a joy to read. I knew from their first interaction that I was going to LOVE reading about the 3 of them together. I really have fallen in love with this world and all the characters.
NOW SOME QUOTES BECAUSE THEYRE DELICIOUS
“You’re beautiful, you know.”
NO I DIDNT KNOW. SAY THAT AGAIN PLEASE I FORGOT TO BREATHE😊😊
“Did you think after last night I would come begging for a place as your apprentice?”
“Begging? Not for that, no…” His dimple showed.
I HAD TO PUT THE BOOK DOWN.
“Wars have been started over looks less heated than that, sister. Is something going on —”
How do you have to be looking at her for other people to say something like this… I’m a goner.
“In the dark recess of that broom cupboard, his body had come alive in her presence, and he’d wanted nothing more than to care for her, to protect her.”
“I think that I have never known someone to be so infuriating… Someone who makes my blood boil in such a way that I want to kill you and kiss you all at once.”
I’m going to just leave it at that because I actually want people to read this book and if I keep going, you’ll just know everything that happens😭
Wow!!! Where do I even begin?
This book was GORGEOUS. The characters, the plot, the pacing, THE SLOW BURN, the pining, just everything was soooooooo good. Even when not much was happening, I still found myself not wanting to put this book down. It was so entertaining and intriguing from beginning to end.
It was a little predictable, but I didn’t mind as it made up for it in other aspects. The writing was easy to read, but was not simple by any means. Helen Scheuerer truly paints a beautiful picture with her words.
₊‧.°.⋆✮⋆.°.‧₊Characters₊‧.°.⋆✮⋆.°.‧₊
Thea: What a lovely fmc. She was fierce, funny, and very entertaining to read about. Thea is strong and determined to get even stronger. She literally spends her free time training and genuinely ENJOYS it. She’s very caring and soft, but knows how to stand up for herself and the people she cares for. And best of all, she isn’t annoying like a lot of fmcs in fantasy books end up being.
Wilder: This man… Just wow. He falls into your typical broody mmc stereotype, but he truly is great. He’s strong and protective, but knows that Thea isn’t useless and doesn’t coddle her like she’s a child. He makes it clear that he understands she wants to train and get stronger, and he actually makes an effort to guide her. He was so sweet and is definitely a new favorite of mine.
Kipp: I would take a bullet for this man. He is an ANGEL. Kipp added a sense of humor and lightheartedness to all the scenes he was in. I found myself smiling, and even laughing out loud, every time he made an appearance. He’s a very loyal and caring friend to Thea, and doesn’t deserve half the shit he got from the other shieldbearers :<
Cal: I really did love Cal. Similarly to Kipp, he was always a joy to read about. He’s funny, while also being realistic with some of his… reactions. He’s able to realize his mistakes and ask for forgiveness when need be.
Seb: WHEN I CATCH YOU…🤬🤬
I won’t go into more detail about Seb or the other characters but there were so many side characters I grew to love as well.
Now let me talk about the dynamics in this book because I’m obsessed. Thea and Wilder actually have conversations about themselves, and they get to know each other for a while. This is something that seems to always be replaced by insta-lust dynamics in a lot of books. He cares so deeply about her and the development and pacing of their relationship was delicious. It was very slowburn with the right amount of tension and longing in between to keep you at bay. The only thing I kinda disliked was the smidge of miscommunication that happened a couple times. It gets corrected later on, but nothing irks me more than miscommunication.
The friendship between Thea, Cal, and Kipp was so heartwarming. It’s so clear how much they all care about each other. They just work so well together?? The friendly banter, the jokes, the loyalty, and just all their interactions made it such a joy to read. I knew from their first interaction that I was going to LOVE reading about the 3 of them together. I really have fallen in love with this world and all the characters.
NOW SOME QUOTES BECAUSE THEYRE DELICIOUS
“You’re beautiful, you know.”
NO I DIDNT KNOW. SAY THAT AGAIN PLEASE I FORGOT TO BREATHE😊😊
“Did you think after last night I would come begging for a place as your apprentice?”
“Begging? Not for that, no…” His dimple showed.
I HAD TO PUT THE BOOK DOWN.
“Wars have been started over looks less heated than that, sister. Is something going on —”
How do you have to be looking at her for other people to say something like this… I’m a goner.
“In the dark recess of that broom cupboard, his body had come alive in her presence, and he’d wanted nothing more than to care for her, to protect her.”
“I think that I have never known someone to be so infuriating… Someone who makes my blood boil in such a way that I want to kill you and kiss you all at once.”
I’m going to just leave it at that because I actually want people to read this book and if I keep going, you’ll just know everything that happens😭
May 1, 2023
if i have to read about the main character's celadon eyes one more time i'm going to take a dirt nap
April 9, 2024
This was amazing!!! Enemies to lovers, slow burn, who did this to you!! With a kick ass female lead! I absolutely loved every part of it! Cannot wait for the next book. It’s a bit like The Red Queen series meets From Blood and Ash (the latter books) such a great adventure fantasy. 1000% recommend!!
May 17, 2024
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to know the exact age you'll die? To carry the weight of that knowledge, yet still strive to achieve your dreams? Welcome to the world of Althea, the heroine of Helen Scheuerer's epic romantic fantasy, Blood & Steel.
📍 Romantasy
📍 Enemies to Lovers
📍 One Horse
📍 Found Family
📍 Slow Burn
A World of Magic and Prophecy
Blood & Steel transported me to the world of Thezmarr, a tale of fate, courage, and love. Thea, our protagonist, is given a fate stone at birth, which prophesies her death at the age of twenty-seven. Despite this, she harbors a burning desire to become a Warsword, the elite of the elite. Thea's journey is not just about battling external forces, but also about overcoming her internal fears and doubts. She's a character I couldn't help but root for, a heroine who is as relatable as she is admirable.
A Sisterly Bond and a Brooding Hero
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the novel for me was the bond between Thea and her sister, Wren. Their relationship is a beacon of steadfast love amidst the chaos, providing a heartwarming subplot that adds depth to the narrative.
Then there's Wilder, the youngest of the three remaining Warswords. The slow-burn romance between Thea and Wilder added a layer of tension that kept me turning the pages.
A Masterclass in World-Building and Character Development
Scheuerer's world-building is seamless, immersing me in the intricate world of Thezmarr. The characters are beautifully developed, well-rounded, and easy to love. Thea's growth throughout the book is particularly noteworthy, as she evolves from a determined young woman into a courageous heroine.
A Riveting Adventure
Blood & Steel is more than just a romantic fantasy; it's an exhilarating adventure. The plot is engaging, filled with danger, magic, and monsters. The storytelling is so captivating that I found myself lost in the world of Thezmarr, eagerly anticipating what will happen next.
Final Thoughts
If you're a fan of epic romantic fantasies filled with courageous heroines, brooding heroes, and a vividly described world, then Blood & Steel is a must-read.
So, are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey with Thea and Wilder?
📍 Romantasy
📍 Enemies to Lovers
📍 One Horse
📍 Found Family
📍 Slow Burn
A World of Magic and Prophecy
Blood & Steel transported me to the world of Thezmarr, a tale of fate, courage, and love. Thea, our protagonist, is given a fate stone at birth, which prophesies her death at the age of twenty-seven. Despite this, she harbors a burning desire to become a Warsword, the elite of the elite. Thea's journey is not just about battling external forces, but also about overcoming her internal fears and doubts. She's a character I couldn't help but root for, a heroine who is as relatable as she is admirable.
A Sisterly Bond and a Brooding Hero
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the novel for me was the bond between Thea and her sister, Wren. Their relationship is a beacon of steadfast love amidst the chaos, providing a heartwarming subplot that adds depth to the narrative.
Then there's Wilder, the youngest of the three remaining Warswords. The slow-burn romance between Thea and Wilder added a layer of tension that kept me turning the pages.
A Masterclass in World-Building and Character Development
Scheuerer's world-building is seamless, immersing me in the intricate world of Thezmarr. The characters are beautifully developed, well-rounded, and easy to love. Thea's growth throughout the book is particularly noteworthy, as she evolves from a determined young woman into a courageous heroine.
A Riveting Adventure
Blood & Steel is more than just a romantic fantasy; it's an exhilarating adventure. The plot is engaging, filled with danger, magic, and monsters. The storytelling is so captivating that I found myself lost in the world of Thezmarr, eagerly anticipating what will happen next.
Final Thoughts
If you're a fan of epic romantic fantasies filled with courageous heroines, brooding heroes, and a vividly described world, then Blood & Steel is a must-read.
So, are you ready to embark on this thrilling journey with Thea and Wilder?
August 16, 2024
⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ⭑ ✩
This read was a 4 star read for me, as much as I did love the book, it did get kind of repetitive at times. Firstly, I absolutely love the enemies to lovers trope and boy were they enemies. I really enjoyed that they couldn’t stand each other for a while, and that they didn’t instantly fall in love. For the main characters, Wilder gave me whiplash with all the mood swings he had, regardless though he 100% had my heart as that is exactly my type in book bfs. Though the fmc Thea, drove me absolutely insane the entire book. She was constantly throwing herself into danger & I was anxious the entire time that she was going to get herself killed. lol the stress. I didn’t necessarily love the ending, so I’m hoping book two makes up for that.
Preread ☀️:
Love me a good enemies to lovers story <3
This read was a 4 star read for me, as much as I did love the book, it did get kind of repetitive at times. Firstly, I absolutely love the enemies to lovers trope and boy were they enemies. I really enjoyed that they couldn’t stand each other for a while, and that they didn’t instantly fall in love. For the main characters, Wilder gave me whiplash with all the mood swings he had, regardless though he 100% had my heart as that is exactly my type in book bfs. Though the fmc Thea, drove me absolutely insane the entire book. She was constantly throwing herself into danger & I was anxious the entire time that she was going to get herself killed. lol the stress. I didn’t necessarily love the ending, so I’m hoping book two makes up for that.
Preread ☀️:
Love me a good enemies to lovers story <3
December 23, 2023
4.5 Stars
I would have devoured this within a day if it wasn't for work!
Althea had always dreamed of becoming a great warrior, but fate had other plans for her. Althea has been devastated by a prophecy that predicts her untimely death at the age of 27. As an orphan, she had to rely on her own wits and strength to survive in a world that didn't favor women with the blade. Despite the odds stacked against her, Althea never gave up on her dreams. She trained tirelessly in the shadows, honing her skills in secret, knowing that if she was ever caught, it would mean the end of her dreams.
Now, at the age of 24, with only three years left to live, Althea must hurry to make her dreams come true. With her heart set on her goal, she dives headfirst into the world of warriors. Will she succeed in her quest to become a great warrior before time runs out? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – Althea is not one to be underestimated.
Wow! I can't express enough how much I loved the story! It was an absolute page-turner that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. If you're a fan of slow-burn romantic fantasy, then this is an absolute must-read that you won't be able to put down!
***Thank you to NetGalley, Helen Scheuerer, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
I would have devoured this within a day if it wasn't for work!
Althea had always dreamed of becoming a great warrior, but fate had other plans for her. Althea has been devastated by a prophecy that predicts her untimely death at the age of 27. As an orphan, she had to rely on her own wits and strength to survive in a world that didn't favor women with the blade. Despite the odds stacked against her, Althea never gave up on her dreams. She trained tirelessly in the shadows, honing her skills in secret, knowing that if she was ever caught, it would mean the end of her dreams.
Now, at the age of 24, with only three years left to live, Althea must hurry to make her dreams come true. With her heart set on her goal, she dives headfirst into the world of warriors. Will she succeed in her quest to become a great warrior before time runs out? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure – Althea is not one to be underestimated.
Wow! I can't express enough how much I loved the story! It was an absolute page-turner that kept me hooked from the very first chapter. If you're a fan of slow-burn romantic fantasy, then this is an absolute must-read that you won't be able to put down!
***Thank you to NetGalley, Helen Scheuerer, and Dreamscape Media for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
May 12, 2024
This was solid, but it had no business being 550 pages.
For a first book in a series to build stuff up makes sense but there was not enough fantasy and not enough romance or well, action for that matter, for it to be so long.
For a first book in a series to build stuff up makes sense but there was not enough fantasy and not enough romance or well, action for that matter, for it to be so long.
May 15, 2024
“It doesn’t matter who stands against you… What matters most is who stands with you.”
This book was a pleasant surprise.
⤏ What to expect:
∘ Adult High Fantasy Romance
∘ Dual POV
∘ Witcher Vibes
∘ Prophecies, secrets & monsters
∘ Grumpy Warrior MMC
∘ Badass FMC
⤏ Tropes:
∘ Forbidden Love
∘ Slowburn
∘ Found family
∘ Forced Proximity
∘ "Who did this to you?"
∘ "Touch her and die"
⤏ Trigger Warnings: blood, violence & gore, bullying, misogyny, side character with brain injury
⤏ Summary
Althea Zoltaire has lived her life with the knowledge of when it will come to an end, wishing to make the best of the years she has left.
Now, she has only three more years to fulfill her lifelong dream: becoming a legendary warrior. However, achieving this dream is no easy feat, as women are forbidden to wield blades.
The road to becoming one of the warriors is long and challenging.
Althea not only has an initiation test to pass but also must watch her back, as well as guard her heart against the unexpected feelings she harbors for Wilder Hawthorne, her unwilling warrior chaperone.
“If you seek power in a world of men and monsters, there is nothing more powerful than knowledge and the ability to wield it. Remember that, would-be shieldbearer.”
⤏ Plot & Writing
I must admit that it took a while for this story to capture my full attention.
I was ready to drop it at around 30%, but because I was listening to the audiobook at work, I decided to just let it play a little longer, as I didn't know what else to listen to at the time. I'm glad I did, because it finally dug its claws in me.
The plot, while slow-paced at first, gradually turned into this adventurous, compelling and intriguing story.
Following Thea on her journey to achieving her dream turned out to not be so boring after all, despite all the obstacles in her way, she prevailed and managed to keep her head in the game.
⤏ Characters
∘ Thea is a strong and determined character who truly managed to win my heart. She has a few flaws, the main one being she's sometimes a little too focused on her goals, without realizing she's leaving some of the most important people in her life behind.
I admired her restraint from responding to her bully's jabs and loved the moments when she put him in his place. She stands up not only for herself but also for her friends, and that is something to admire.
She has a big heart and will rather die than let her friends be hurt, which sometimes makes Hawthorne being the level-headed in this 'relationship'.
“A true man won’t cut you down as you fight your battles, nor will he fight them for you. A true man will help sharpen your sword, guard your back and fight at your side, in the face of whatever darkness comes.”
∘ Hawthorne, while grumpy and rude in the beginning, turned out to be a character that I could like.
His closed-off attitude was easier to understand through his POV — that's why I love having chapters from the MMC's POV in books.
He's a powerful and well-known warrior, but his hard exterior hides past trauma, trust issues, and more. The man has lost a lot and his reluctance to open up is understandable.
His affection for Althea is becoming more and more clear as the story progresses, to us at least, because he has a hard time noticing it himself. But when he does... 🤭
“The beautiful alchemist would be his beginning – and his end.”
⤏ Romance
Their relationship turns romantic at one point, and I loved the slowburn leading up to that. Tensions are high, they are still not fully honest with each other, but I hold on to the hope that they will get there at one point.
⤏ Conclusion
A complex and intriguing storyline, action-packed, full of tension and angst with lovable characters, and unexpected plot-twists. I definitely recommend giving it a chance!
September 26, 2024
"No woman is responsible for the weak acts of a man who's had his masculinity so easily threatened."
I'd say this was a pretty solid romantasy. It didn't blow me away but it kept me invested and very entertained.
Thea was a pretty good FMC, though I wasn't a huge fan of the instalust, especially since Wilder was a huge dick at the beginning. I think it was starting to take away from her character a bit because she was always thinking about him instead of doing what she dreamt of her whole life.
But as the story progresses, Wilder got better and you start to learn a bit about why he is the way he is. I think he also has some groveling to do after what he said to her, so sign me up for that!
The storyline is pretty interesting, though it is endlessly frustrating how these people treat women. Would they have unarmed all men if there was a similar prophecy? I don't fucking think so. Pricks.
But pretty excited for where this series is gonna go so I'm more than ready to start the next one ❤️🔥
I'd say this was a pretty solid romantasy. It didn't blow me away but it kept me invested and very entertained.
Thea was a pretty good FMC, though I wasn't a huge fan of the instalust, especially since Wilder was a huge dick at the beginning. I think it was starting to take away from her character a bit because she was always thinking about him instead of doing what she dreamt of her whole life.
But as the story progresses, Wilder got better and you start to learn a bit about why he is the way he is. I think he also has some groveling to do after what he said to her, so sign me up for that!
The storyline is pretty interesting, though it is endlessly frustrating how these people treat women. Would they have unarmed all men if there was a similar prophecy? I don't fucking think so. Pricks.
But pretty excited for where this series is gonna go so I'm more than ready to start the next one ❤️🔥
July 22, 2023
2.5 stars
This was such a disappointment! I was hoping for fun and adventurous fantasy with a little bit of romance but what I got was a character who is childish but fits the “not like other girls” trope and a love interest that is grumpy for no reason but falls in love with the main character in 0.2 second??? Where is the chemistry? Where is the banter? Where is the fantasy romance I was promised???
It’s not giving what it promised to give 😭
This was such a disappointment! I was hoping for fun and adventurous fantasy with a little bit of romance but what I got was a character who is childish but fits the “not like other girls” trope and a love interest that is grumpy for no reason but falls in love with the main character in 0.2 second??? Where is the chemistry? Where is the banter? Where is the fantasy romance I was promised???
It’s not giving what it promised to give 😭
August 3, 2023
Look, this definitely wasn’t bad!! It was very addictive and easy to read, but it also was NOT slow burn, and didn’t really stick out to me all that much. Nonetheless, it was good fun, and I’m glad I read this :).
June 13, 2024
thank god i don’t have to wait for the sequel 🤠
April 5, 2024
this was so much fun.
I really just enjoyed the hot and cold of wilder and Althea. they constantly had me squealing at their moments together and I was racing to turn the pages.
I think the plot could have been better developed, there defs was some pacing issues which kept it from that five. but for a good time fanro I had a lot of fun
I really just enjoyed the hot and cold of wilder and Althea. they constantly had me squealing at their moments together and I was racing to turn the pages.
I think the plot could have been better developed, there defs was some pacing issues which kept it from that five. but for a good time fanro I had a lot of fun
June 29, 2023
⭐️- 5 I just feel in my bones it’s 5 ⭐️
🌶️- yes 💕
Another to add to the holy grail fantasy book list
There is crack in this book I swear. I picked it up just to start it before bed and when I blinked I was already 120 pages deep and then blink I finished it.
Fated to die at 27, 24 year old Althea has ONE goal in life: Become a Warsword- a legendary warrior… the problem? Women aren’t allowed to even touch swords let alone wield them.
I can’t describe the pride I felt with each of Althea’s victories. I felt like putting on my boots strapping on a shield, picking up and sword and stomping in the mud- clanging metal on metal to cheer my girl on.
- women with swords who aren’t supposed have them
- Magic
- Witcher vibes in the best way
- “Who did this to you”
- We shouldn’t be together to we can’t be together 🫣 the tension in the next going to but UNREAL
- GIRL POWER
- found family
- People with titles like “Bearslayer”
Tbt while there is a romance plot line in the background for the first time in a long time I wasn’t focused on it. My eyes were on her & her goals.
In my blood I felt this deep sense of pride and hope bloom seeing Althea become a warrior. I felt as though some feeling of kinship laced between the pages and in me. If she can do it then so can I… it was just heartwarming and encouraging.
Ok I’ll be here impatiently waiting for book two 😭
Helen sent this to me as a gift- she did not ask for a review all thoughts and feelings are my own 💕 thank you for blessing me with this book I will forever cherish it!
December 2, 2023
•one horse trope
•training scenes
•knife to the throat
The characters and the romance had me in this one. I also just looooved the trainings scenes and I’m SO EXCITED FOR BOON 2! The mentor-apprentice relationship 🥰🥰🥰 yes ma’am I’m here for it. I love the training scenes and the final trial. I’d say plot was a three star, romance was a five, and characters were a four so I’m giving it a four overall. The spice be spicinggggg and wilder is such a freaking badass hottie warrior teacher 😮💨
•training scenes
•knife to the throat
The characters and the romance had me in this one. I also just looooved the trainings scenes and I’m SO EXCITED FOR BOON 2! The mentor-apprentice relationship 🥰🥰🥰 yes ma’am I’m here for it. I love the training scenes and the final trial. I’d say plot was a three star, romance was a five, and characters were a four so I’m giving it a four overall. The spice be spicinggggg and wilder is such a freaking badass hottie warrior teacher 😮💨
July 2, 2024
"I think that I have never known someone to be so infuriating… Someone who makes my blood boil in such a way that I want to kill you and kiss you all at once."
This was exactly everything I need from a Fantasy romance!
We have:
✔️ Found Family
✔️ A grumpy MMC
✔️ Amazing Banter
✔️ A badass FMC
✔️ The perfect amount of 🌶️
✔️ A great world builing
✔️ Funny (all thanks to Kipp)
Our heroine, Althea, has wanted to be a warrior all her life. And not only a warrior, but a warsword, an elite kind who, upon taking the blood rite, gets granted agility and ability in combat beyond that of any simple man. Though, the problem is, women are forbidden from wielding blades due to a dark prophecy that foretold the end of days by a woman using a weapon, and that the veil will fall.
Thezmarr is surrounded by a sort of veil protecting it from monsters who seek to ravage it and the warswords are there to protect it.
Also, her days are numbered, if she is to believe the number 27 on her fate stone.
So Thea practice in secret, honing her abilities as much as she can… until one day, the very thing she has always wanted may finally come to pass.
I loved the main characters, the angst between Wilder and Thea and their verbal spars, but also the side characters, especially Kipp, Cal, Audra and Wren.
Thea is such a strong and stubborn character, but in a good way. I usually have problems with main female leads, but Thea’s character really won me. Wilder was more grumpy and mean but I understand that he has faced so much and that made him put a wall between himself and others.
Malik was a very important character too, and his friendship with Thea was really precious.
I’m really excited for the things we discover at the end of the book and how it will play out in the next ones.
Definitely recommend!
This was exactly everything I need from a Fantasy romance!
We have:
✔️ Found Family
✔️ A grumpy MMC
✔️ Amazing Banter
✔️ A badass FMC
✔️ The perfect amount of 🌶️
✔️ A great world builing
✔️ Funny (all thanks to Kipp)
Our heroine, Althea, has wanted to be a warrior all her life. And not only a warrior, but a warsword, an elite kind who, upon taking the blood rite, gets granted agility and ability in combat beyond that of any simple man. Though, the problem is, women are forbidden from wielding blades due to a dark prophecy that foretold the end of days by a woman using a weapon, and that the veil will fall.
Thezmarr is surrounded by a sort of veil protecting it from monsters who seek to ravage it and the warswords are there to protect it.
Also, her days are numbered, if she is to believe the number 27 on her fate stone.
So Thea practice in secret, honing her abilities as much as she can… until one day, the very thing she has always wanted may finally come to pass.
I loved the main characters, the angst between Wilder and Thea and their verbal spars, but also the side characters, especially Kipp, Cal, Audra and Wren.
Thea is such a strong and stubborn character, but in a good way. I usually have problems with main female leads, but Thea’s character really won me. Wilder was more grumpy and mean but I understand that he has faced so much and that made him put a wall between himself and others.
Malik was a very important character too, and his friendship with Thea was really precious.
I’m really excited for the things we discover at the end of the book and how it will play out in the next ones.
Definitely recommend!
December 26, 2022
Rating: 5 slow-burning ✨
Spice: 1-1.5 🌶
First of all, thank you to the author for this eARC opportunity. However, this review is completely voluntary and honest.
Wow, wow, WOW. Listen, this is the first book I've read by Helen Scheuerer but it certainly will not be the last. I LOVED Blood & Steel. The plot, the characters, the development of it all was just perfect in my eyes.
Althea is just such an incredible heroine and just so lovable. I think it would be hard to not root for her. She is also so relatable as she tries to find her path to get to who she wants to be. She has so many goals and aspirations and she is set on accomplishing them, which is so admirable. She isn't happy with just being an alchemist, as she knows that is not what she is meant to be, Althea has so much strength, she is fierce, a warrior in her heart, and her journey so far has been wonderful to read about. Althea Nine Lives ♥︎
Wilder Hawthorne has been added to the list of favorite MMCs of all time and also the book boyfriend list. His grumpy, warrior of steel self was so amazing to read about and also had me smiling like a fool at times. I mean, a grumpy and subtle flirt MMC, who is also so sweet but only shows that side to those he cares about? Sign me up. And also, his development in this book was chef's kiss. He was so closed off in the beginning, nothing but his duty as a warsword in mind. Warsword Hawthorne and that's it. But then we got to see him as just Wilder and it had me screaming into my pillow. I love him.
The found family trope in this book had my heart feeling happy and warm throughout the book. So many characters stole my heart and I will protect them at all costs. The slow burn ... oof ... just oof ❤️🔥 . And the ending? It was so bittersweet because I am hooked and ready for book two but the waiting will be PAINFUL. Regardless, it will be worth the wait. I 100% recommend this book and the books to come. Blood & Steel will be out on 02.16.23 and I am telling you, check it out once you can. It will be completely worth it!
Spice: 1-1.5 🌶
First of all, thank you to the author for this eARC opportunity. However, this review is completely voluntary and honest.
Wow, wow, WOW. Listen, this is the first book I've read by Helen Scheuerer but it certainly will not be the last. I LOVED Blood & Steel. The plot, the characters, the development of it all was just perfect in my eyes.
Althea is just such an incredible heroine and just so lovable. I think it would be hard to not root for her. She is also so relatable as she tries to find her path to get to who she wants to be. She has so many goals and aspirations and she is set on accomplishing them, which is so admirable. She isn't happy with just being an alchemist, as she knows that is not what she is meant to be, Althea has so much strength, she is fierce, a warrior in her heart, and her journey so far has been wonderful to read about. Althea Nine Lives ♥︎
Wilder Hawthorne has been added to the list of favorite MMCs of all time and also the book boyfriend list. His grumpy, warrior of steel self was so amazing to read about and also had me smiling like a fool at times. I mean, a grumpy and subtle flirt MMC, who is also so sweet but only shows that side to those he cares about? Sign me up. And also, his development in this book was chef's kiss. He was so closed off in the beginning, nothing but his duty as a warsword in mind. Warsword Hawthorne and that's it. But then we got to see him as just Wilder and it had me screaming into my pillow. I love him.
The found family trope in this book had my heart feeling happy and warm throughout the book. So many characters stole my heart and I will protect them at all costs. The slow burn ... oof ... just oof ❤️🔥 . And the ending? It was so bittersweet because I am hooked and ready for book two but the waiting will be PAINFUL. Regardless, it will be worth the wait. I 100% recommend this book and the books to come. Blood & Steel will be out on 02.16.23 and I am telling you, check it out once you can. It will be completely worth it!
May 11, 2024
Star rating: ★★★★★
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
This book was everything. I was hooked immediately and there were so many aspects that made me feel so muchhh😩 Thea, Kipp & Cal have my HEART… and that fucking slow burn was torturous.
Also… the vibes and feelings this book gave me were the same as fourth wing gave me.. do with that what you will👀
Spice rating: 🌶️🌶️
This book was everything. I was hooked immediately and there were so many aspects that made me feel so muchhh😩 Thea, Kipp & Cal have my HEART… and that fucking slow burn was torturous.
Also… the vibes and feelings this book gave me were the same as fourth wing gave me.. do with that what you will👀
February 19, 2024
New Favorite Book Alert!
Blood & Steel is the first book in the adult fantasy romance series The Legends of Thezmarr by the amazing Helen Scheuerer. Last year I read her Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet and I was BLOWN away by her writing and fantasy world building. There wasn't even that much romance in the series so for me to fall in love with it the way I did was extra impressive for me. Her books are amazing, and though I wanted to see more from my friends in that world (because that is what Roh and the gang felt like by the end of the series...friends) I was completely and totally excited when she told me her next book was going to be an adult fantasy romance. My favorite genre ever. And holy cow- did she deliver! Blood & Steel is one of the best books I have read all year. In fact, these characters have been living rent free in my head non-stop since finishing the book. I am obsessed with Thea and Wilder. So obsessed that I want to drop everything and the read the book again...right now.
In Blood & Steel we meet our main character, Thea. Thea lives in Thezmarr, where women are forbidden from carrying weapons because of a prophecy that claims a woman carrying steel would reign destruction down on the kingdom. The only thing Thea has ever wanted in her life, was to become a warsword- an uber elite class of warriors. So elite that there are only three warswords left in all of Thezmarr. And to make matters worse, Thea is under I time crunch because according to her fate stone- she only had three years left to live. Talk about pressure. I loved Thea's brashness right from the very first page. It is impossible not to fall in love with her, so when I met the broody Wilder Hawthorne- the youngest of the three remaining Warswords- I knew he was done for. And I fell in love with every broody inch of him as well.
I simply cannot stop thinking about these two. Thea and Wilder are up there in the ranks of my favorite bookish couple ever. I need to know what is going to happen next. Helen has captures my entire being with Blood & Steel, and I am completely desperate for the second book. If you are looking for a fantasy romance that is going to grip you from the first page and never let go, you need to read Blood & Steel. Helen writes some of my favorite fantasy books ever. If you love tension filled hot looks, great dialogue, characters that will make you fall head over heels in love and a plot that will make you wish the book would never end- Blood & Steel is your book. This book is magic. It is completely special and amazing and I demand that you pick it up as soon as it releases on 2/16/23.
Blood & Steel is the first book in the adult fantasy romance series The Legends of Thezmarr by the amazing Helen Scheuerer. Last year I read her Curse of the Cyren Queen quartet and I was BLOWN away by her writing and fantasy world building. There wasn't even that much romance in the series so for me to fall in love with it the way I did was extra impressive for me. Her books are amazing, and though I wanted to see more from my friends in that world (because that is what Roh and the gang felt like by the end of the series...friends) I was completely and totally excited when she told me her next book was going to be an adult fantasy romance. My favorite genre ever. And holy cow- did she deliver! Blood & Steel is one of the best books I have read all year. In fact, these characters have been living rent free in my head non-stop since finishing the book. I am obsessed with Thea and Wilder. So obsessed that I want to drop everything and the read the book again...right now.
In Blood & Steel we meet our main character, Thea. Thea lives in Thezmarr, where women are forbidden from carrying weapons because of a prophecy that claims a woman carrying steel would reign destruction down on the kingdom. The only thing Thea has ever wanted in her life, was to become a warsword- an uber elite class of warriors. So elite that there are only three warswords left in all of Thezmarr. And to make matters worse, Thea is under I time crunch because according to her fate stone- she only had three years left to live. Talk about pressure. I loved Thea's brashness right from the very first page. It is impossible not to fall in love with her, so when I met the broody Wilder Hawthorne- the youngest of the three remaining Warswords- I knew he was done for. And I fell in love with every broody inch of him as well.
I simply cannot stop thinking about these two. Thea and Wilder are up there in the ranks of my favorite bookish couple ever. I need to know what is going to happen next. Helen has captures my entire being with Blood & Steel, and I am completely desperate for the second book. If you are looking for a fantasy romance that is going to grip you from the first page and never let go, you need to read Blood & Steel. Helen writes some of my favorite fantasy books ever. If you love tension filled hot looks, great dialogue, characters that will make you fall head over heels in love and a plot that will make you wish the book would never end- Blood & Steel is your book. This book is magic. It is completely special and amazing and I demand that you pick it up as soon as it releases on 2/16/23.
July 7, 2024
4.5 stars
*cue the rant about how mad I am with myself for not picking this book up sooner*
Women aren’t allowed to be warriors anymore due to a prophecy that stated a woman would bring ruin to the realms with a blade in one hand and shadows in the other. Enter our FMC, Thea, who has ONLY ever wanted to be a warrior of Thezzmar.
Thea was such a refreshing FMC. Not a damsel, not whiny. She did what she needed to get where she wanted to be, and I loved her for it. She is determined, stubborn and badass. Everything I want in a leading character. Wilder, our MMC, was broody and badass in his own right. I didn’t love him as much as I loved Thea, though I am sure that is bound to change as I read on in the series.
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star read for me is because I did feel like there were parts that were a little slower, BUT that is to be expected when building a world and setting up a series. All in all though, it was well done. Super entertaining and had exactly what I want in a fantasy romance. Loved it!
*cue the rant about how mad I am with myself for not picking this book up sooner*
Women aren’t allowed to be warriors anymore due to a prophecy that stated a woman would bring ruin to the realms with a blade in one hand and shadows in the other. Enter our FMC, Thea, who has ONLY ever wanted to be a warrior of Thezzmar.
Thea was such a refreshing FMC. Not a damsel, not whiny. She did what she needed to get where she wanted to be, and I loved her for it. She is determined, stubborn and badass. Everything I want in a leading character. Wilder, our MMC, was broody and badass in his own right. I didn’t love him as much as I loved Thea, though I am sure that is bound to change as I read on in the series.
The only reason this wasn’t a 5 star read for me is because I did feel like there were parts that were a little slower, BUT that is to be expected when building a world and setting up a series. All in all though, it was well done. Super entertaining and had exactly what I want in a fantasy romance. Loved it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,195 reviews