Probably one of the most challenging books I’ve written to date. For one, it was intimidating to follow on the heels of Castle of Dusk and Shadows—not only because it was my most hyped release to date, but also because it is a PRIDE & PREJUDICE retelling, the most popular of Austen’s stories. Top that off with longer-than-expected writing breaks due to pregnancy, and BAM! it was also difficult to collect my disjointed thoughts and keep any sort of flow going. But I’m proud of this thing. It’s dark and gritty, it’s a bit creepy and angsty, but it’s also hopeful and swoony. And hopefully, even with all the new twists I threw in, the heart of Mansfield Park remains in this tale…but in a way where the love interests aren’t cousins and they get a lot more time together on page.8 s K Mart Vet689 29

Ren, with her unusual silver hair and possible fae parentage, is an outsider among her village in this reimagining of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park. When her high emotions yield ice magic, Ren is cast into the realm of the fae as a sacrificial offering to the ruthless royal family. The story takes an unexpected turn as Ren forms an alliance with Garrick, a charismatic wolf shifter and hunter.

There is delightful banter and swoony romance. The exchanges between Ren and Garrick bring a spark of humor and warmth, providing a counterbalance to the darker undertones of the story. The twists in the plot kept me engaged with surprises unfolding in a satisfying manner.

However, I did not that forgiveness was extended to a certain character and the resolution of certain plot events, at times, feels too convenient, lacking the natural flow that would make them seamlessly integrated into the narrative. This aspect slightly detracts from the authenticity of the story, making some developments appear forced.

The strength of "Fortress of Blood and Power" lies in its ability to weave a tale of romance amidst the complexities of a fae world. The chemistry between Ren and Garrick is palpable, adding a layer of romantic tension that keeps readers invested in their journey. This is altogether a fun fantasy romance that blends elements of Jane Austen's classic with the allure of fae magic.

Thanks to the author for the eARC. This is an honest review.6 s Anshul (stories.buddy)695 12

It’s the first book I read from Rachel and DAMM I fell in love straight away. Now I keep thinking about why I keep putting her books in my TBR, I am going to read them as soon as possible. Still in TBR but moved up a lot. It was a lovely experience reading her work.

You can learn a lot just by reading the blurb, the base of the story gets pretty clear but I was very excited to know how everything happens and what becomes of it all. SUSPENSE WAS THE HIGHLIGHT FOR ME. Not knowing what will happen next, made it more FASCINATING.

At the start, the FMC is very shy and follows traditions by heart. She is very sophisticated as she was taught from childhood, this makes the story sweet at the start irrespective of the cruel circumstances she was thrown into.

The journey takes place when humans find out that “Florentia” (I love this name and I don’t think that I have heard it before) has Fae magic and doesn’t belong to the human world. The rough road of her life leads her to Garrick (who I adore).

Florentia evolves herself at every challenge thrown her way and the character grows a lot as the story progresses. At the same time, Garrick is a morally great character who has his battles to fight and win. I feel sad for him as I appreciate his devotion towards Ren and the willingness to do anything for her just melts my heart.

The angle of demons, the underworld, lost parentage, and mystery with all the individual struggles of her magic makes a good CONCOCTION of a brilliant story and keeps me hooked from start to finish. There is so much to tell about it but it’s best if you go through it first hand by reading it. I loved it a lot and that COVER is just fireworks. I HOPE THIS BOOK GETS LOTS OF LOVE.2 s Taylor179 10

“If I was his starlight, he was my sunshine.”

I LOVED this book!! It was gritty and dark but also romantic and hopeful. I love that Rachel doesn’t shy away from making the fae cruel and dark, I feel fae in books are often made to seem elegant and calm and I to see something different!! Ren is a force to be reckoned with and I love her spirit! And her cinnamon roll wolf shifter is good too
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