Category: Romantasy

Smoke and Scar by Gretchen Powell Fox

On By TracyIn New To Me Author, Paranormal / Fantasy, Part of a Series, Re-Release / Updated Edition, Romantasy, Tracy's Reviews, Young AdultLeave a comment

Smoke and Scar (Shattered Crown, #1)Smoke and Scar by Gretchen Powell Fox

Tracy’s Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Series: Shattered Crown #1

Release Date: April 7, 2026 (Reissued)

This book introduces readers to Elyria Lightbreaker, a fae warrior whose life is shadowed by loss and grief, yet she possesses remarkable shadow magic and inner strength. Her journey intertwines with Cedric Thorne, a human knight driven by a need for vengeance and haunted by his past. The dynamic between Elyria and Cedric is compelling, as they start off as sworn enemies but are forced to cooperate in a series of deadly trials. Both characters evolve throughout the story, with Elyria revealing her fierce resilience and Cedric gradually displaying more depth despite his initial antagonism. The supporting cast, particularly the side characters and Elyria’s loved ones, add layers to the narrative, creating a well-rounded ensemble.

Set against the backdrop of Arcanis, a world where humans and magical beings have long been at odds, the plot centers on the Arcane Crucible—an unforgiving competition held every twenty-five years to broker peace. The trials themselves are dangerous and full of surprises, keeping the tension high and the stakes clear. As Elyria and Cedric navigate the Crucible, they face betrayals, hidden powers, and shifting alliances, all while their forced proximity pushes their relationship in unexpected directions. The narrative blends elements of fantasy and romance, with a slow-burn connection that gradually transforms their animosity into something more complicated and heartfelt.

I thought that this book stood out for its fresh take on familiar romantasy tropes, by flipping traditional roles and infusing the story with rich world-building and action-packed scenes. The evolution from enemies to allies, and possibly lovers, is handled with nuance, though some readers may wish for deeper development in the central romance. The vivid setting, unpredictable plot twists, and strong characterization make it a rewarding read for fans of fantasy and romance, particularly those new to the genre or seeking a unique twist on the standard formula. While I thought the pacing of the story was a bit off, I still enjoyed the book and believe that it offers enough intrigue and emotion to leave a lasting impression and keep you hungry for the next installment.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *

The Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst

On By TracyIn Contemporary, Paranormal / Fantasy, Romantasy, Standalone Title, Top Pick - Highly Recommended, Tracy's Reviews, Young AdultLeave a comment

The Faraway InnThe Faraway Inn by Sarah Beth Durst

Tracy’s Rating: 5 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: March 31, 2026

When her boyfriend Ethan breaks her heart right at the beginning of summer, Calisa’s moms decide that she needs time away to heal and move on, so she can focus on her upcoming senior year. They send her to stay with her great-aunt Zee who runs a B&B in Vermont. Things seem to go wrong right from the start, she is caught in the rain, falls through the porch and is basically told to leave by her Auntie Zee.

But Calisa needs this time away and the Faraway Inn is filled with secrets and the promise of the answers she is seeking. She charms her way into staying for the summer, and soon somewhere between baking, cleaning and making new friends, she begins to unlock the inn’s secrets and realizes her grumpy great-aunt needs help and she thinks she might be able to give it. But when Auntie Zee goes missing, she will have to find a way to save not only Auntie Zee, but the inn itself before it’s too late!

This was such a fun story! Calisa is suffering from her first heartbreak at the beginning of the story and feels like all her hopes for a perfect summer before starting her senior year in high school are ruined. She starts to believe that if she succeeds at restoring the Inn, she will find the happiness that she lost when Ethan broke her heart. Along the way she will learn so much! There will be a new love interest, mythical/magical beings, secrets, found family (figuratively and literally), magic, healing and happy beginnings! This was a great YA cozy fantasy, and I am happy to recommend it to anyone who enjoys a bit of magic!

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *