Thank you NetGalley and Agency Press for this eCopy to review

Blood, Iron, and Bone by Sera Foxe is the first book in The Lightbringers series. The story is set in a richly detailed fantasy world where magic and ancient prophecies play a crucial role.

The story begins when Aurelia, a mortal girl hears a mysterious call in the night. Compelled to answer, she finds herself drawn into a world of magic and prophecy. Aurelia's journey is one of self-discovery as she uncovers her true identity and the significant role she plays in the fate of her world.

In another realm, Andar is betrothed to the future High Queen of Áithrim. Despite his commitment, he feels a deep sense of unease, as if his fated mate is not who she appears to be. This internal conflict drives him to seek answers, leading him to cross paths with Aurelia.

The kingdom of Áithrim is on the brink of fulfilling or failing its most famous prophecy. Under a cursed sky, a diverse group of Fae and Humans must come together to confront the darkness threatening their land. This motley band includes characters with their own secrets and motivations, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

As the story unfolds, the characters navigate their intertwined destinies, facing challenges that test their courage and resolve. The detailed world-building and rich mythology create an immersive experience, though the pacing can feel slow at times due to the depth of the lore.

Overall, Blood, Iron, and Bone is a tale of destiny, love, and the struggle between light and darkness. The intricate plot and well-developed characters make it a compelling read for fans of epic fantasy.

Unfortunately I did have to DNF this book at around the 200 page mark. However, that is not to say the book is bad, just that it wasn’t the right fit for me!

I thought the premise of the story was brilliant. I was captivated by the prologue and the allusions to the prophecy which underpins the story, and it really did make me interested to learn about Aurelia’s background (at the same time she was learning about it!). However, the pacing felt a bit too slow for me, and it took a little too long for me to get into the story. I wasn’t a fan of the jumping 1st / 3rd person narratives as it did get a bit confusing to understand whose perspective we were reading from; and I found the short sentence structure that the book is written in to be off-putting whilst reading. That’s completely a personal preference though, and not a fault to the writing style.

I also think I would have liked a little more suspense with the fated mates trope, as it felt quite obvious where the story was going - but that’s also just a personal preference!

I still gave this book 2* as I think it has a lot of potential and will absolutely resonate with the right reader. I also think the writing is targeted towards a YA audience more so (although I am not sure if there is explicit content later in the book which would negate that!). I have opted not to post this review on my social media as I don’t tend to post DNF’d books, just to ensure authors are not unfairly viewing DNF reviews regularly which can be disheartening when the right reader will love the story!

Blood Iron and Bone is a new, unique take on the fae romantasy genre, following a number of characters: Aurelia a girl from the human world in love with a man she’s never met; Ander, a fae from the Otherworld entrapped in a prophecy; Lark, princess of the Otherworld, betrothed to Andar; Nova a human slave to princess Lark; and Cillian, fae solider.

The story was a bit slow at first, the focus mainly on introducing the characters and the world, but once plot started to unravel all the previous ‘slowness’ was 100% worth it.

The story switches perspectives between the 5 main characters and follows the aftermath of human girl, Aurelia, entering the fae world and how her very existence turns the Otherworld upside down.

This slow burn, fated romance set in a fantasy world is sure to leave you craving for more. The second book can not come out quick enough. I can’t wait to see where the story goes in the next books.

Update:

After finishing this book a few days ago and sitting with my thoughts and feelings, my rating has changed. I can not stop thinking about this world and the characters and the plot and i just want to be back in this world. This book is definitely one that stays with you and lingers in the back of your mind constantly.

Sera Foxe is an incredibly talented writer and I can’t wait to see what else she writes.

I received an ARC of Blood, Iron, and Bone by Sera Fox through NetGalley.

"Blood, Iron, and Bone" is a sweeping tale of fate and prophecy, where a mortal girl and a Fae prince find themselves drawn together by a mysterious call, a cursed sky, and a kingdom's last hope for salvation.

There were moments I absolutely loved and others where I found myself a bit confused, likely due to the third-person narrative and shifts between characters. That said, the introduction was really exciting, and I was drawn in by the mystery surrounding the realms and dreams. Overall, I found the story engaging, and the final 20% really stood out for me - it was gripping and set the stage for the next book in the series beautifully.

I read 50% of this book before i decided to DNF'd it. Initially the synopsis grasped my attention to this book. I liked the title and the character introductions. I really tried to get into this book. But I was finding myself trying to push through a pull door. I didnt find the story to be cohesive and at times was confused about what was going on through the book. And I was quite confused on the time period. In addition, I found it quite repetive and would repeat things that were just said in the previous chapters. This book just wasnt for me.

4/5 Star ⭐
0.5/5 Spice

Thank you Netgalley and the authors and publishers for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This review will start out criticism heavy, but I want you to keep in mind that I am very glad I kept reading. This was an overall 4 star read with 5 star potential if things are fixed in the future.

The first 55% of the book is ALL prose and exposition and very little dialogue or action. Much of it could have been left out or woven better into the rest of the story. Think Tolkien or GRRM levels of epic/high fantasy world building, info dumps, and anecdotal memories for one of the main characters (or if you struggled with books like The Cursed Prince by Holly Black, this is similar to that.) There were lots of flashbacks and back to present times which was confusing, and then all of a sudden BAM it just takes off and goes into the show, which then feels like your typical romantasy book. Oh, there are also 6 POVs in a weird 3rd person but not 3rd person style??(sorry adhd, words fail me sometimes, idk it felt weird.) and not all of the time was it really clear who we were viewing from, until we get to the more dialogue heavy parts.

To quote another reviewer who put it perfectly: "Imagine someone reading you The Hobbit out loud but stopping every few sentences to explain why Bilbo’s doormat is culturally significant... that's this book."

I really REALLY wish this could have been woven in with the second half of the book better. It's truly my only complaint. I'm going to be brutally honest, it, feels like one author did the first part of the book, and the other did the second half. Like the first 55% of the book set the stage, did its job but SEVERAL times I wanted to DNF. The story and writing in and of itself is good but I struggle with prose/exposition heavy parts. Although necessary they can be done more masterfully to not feel like I'm reading a textbook, which at times it did feel like that. I skim read to get major plot points but didn't feel like I missed much at all. Then I devoured the second half of the book.

I will continue this series, and hope some of the things above are addressed in the future. If the second book is prose heavy again, I am unsure if I will continue. Worth a read but be prepared for it to take some mental energy to read.

This was such a fun adventure! After reading about 10% of the book, the author’s writing and world building becomes second nature. This is a story about a human who never “fit in” unknowingly making her way into a Fae world where she finds herself entangled in a royal family bustling with secrets and motives, all whilst trying to find her dream love.
The writing is very polished and beautiful and at times slow paced but it is reminiscent of old fairy tales which I found very refreshing. After adjusting, it is very easy to completely let yourself fall into this story. The more I read, the more I would not put the book down. This story has many different POV’s and I thought it would become overwhelming but I found myself enjoying every single character's point of view and inner monologue (a rare feat). This story is mostly character driven and that is not something I usually enjoy but It was in this book. I found the characters to be loveable and relatable regardless, and at times, because of their flaws. I also loved how the author was able to squeeze in some jokes and funny banter without simultaneously dimming the importance of the storyline or the seriousness of a scene. The last 30% of this book went crazy and made me so excited for the next books!

On the other hand, I thought this book was difficult to understand and somewhat slow paced at the start but I think the intention behind this was to slowly introduce the reader to this new world. I also found that some inner monologues could have been shortened but that does not diminish their importance to the story.

If I were to compare this book to entice readers, I would compare it to “A Crown Of Ivy And Glass” by Claire Legrand. The writing was similar and the twists and turns made me reminiscent of the way I felt when I read that book. If you enjoyed that series I am fairly certain you would enjoy this series as well!
That is not to say that this book is like any other, this book is singular and very refreshing when Romanticies have a tendency to resemble each other.
I am impatient for the next books knowing that many of the characters have been left with open storylines and unanswered questions.
I would recommend this book to someone who loves a fantasy romance with secrets, royal families, plot twists, slow burns, not spice heavy, found families and a cliffhanger that does not leave you hating the author but rather excited for the following book!

Thank you to Netgalley, Sera Foxe and Agency Press for the ARC copy of Blood Iron and Bone, I had a lovely time in this world and am very excited to read on!

I absolutely loved this book. I loved the world building, and background character detail. It felt like every detail was well thought out and necessary. It was so beautifully written I could picture it in my head. The characters' feelings were so well written they were easy to relate to and identify with. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy and romance. 5 stars from me.

A Fae fantasy novel full of twists and turns. Hidden elements, prophecies, and betrayals. The start is a little slow with world building but it is a banger of a book. There are multiple POV to get the whole picture. The book ended at a satisfying conclusion but with enough unresolved plot for me to be itching for the next book.

I really enjoyed the book Blood Iron & Bone. It is a magical, found family story with exceptional world building and character development. Personally, I love multiple POVs, and I found it easy to follow all the changes of POVs from chapter to chapter and within each chapter. The glossary was super helpful & explained everything very well.

I only had two issues with the book.
1. The pace of the story - The first half was very slow and, at times, repetitive. The second half of the story was almost too fast/rushed.
2. There were certain instances with character decisions that felt unrealistic (and not because it's a fantasy book). Decisions were made so easily, and characters just went along with everything, no matter how crazy or life changing the decisions were with no reasoning.

Overall, I highly recommend the book Blood Iron & Bone. I will definitely read the additional two books coming in The Lightbringers series. I'm eager to read the adventures coming for many of the characters and what they will find.

Arc Read
Publish Date-21th March
Thank you Sera Foxe for allowing me to read Blood iron and bone, Here are my thoughts and rating

Rating- 3Stars
The synopsis of the book really drew me in, It sounded unique and grabbed my attention.

I did enjoy reading this book but I wasn't always fully immersed into this world. At the beginning as many have said in previous reviews, it did take me a while(40%) to fully wrap my head around what was going on and who each character was. I did write down notes to help myself remember who was who.

This book has a lot of world building and back story for the first half of the book. Which ends up being too much as(For me) you aren't just following the typical 2 pov's. I believe you are following 5 or 6.( Which I did eventually really enjoy!)

There is a little bit of romance going on but as this is just book 1 of 3 I would imagine we would get more in the next book with how this one finished. Definitely a good set up for the rest of the series

Moving past that, the 2nd half of the book I was gripped! I didn't want to put it down. I needed to know what was happening next. I actually sped through the last 40% of the book.
I wanted a happy ending for everyone ESPCIALLY NOVA&CILLIAN! They were my favourite and I do hope to see more of them in book 2.

With how long this book was I do think there could of been more action going on, mostly in the first 50% because some chapters at the beginning just weren't necessary or really dragged out and could of been replace with something more engaging/ Interesting without leaving out important information/backstory of characters.

This is a book I would recommend to those that prefer low spice and more worldbuilding and character driven fantasy books

Tropes-
Fated mates
Prophecy
Fae&Humans
Curse
Secrets
Multi Povs

I loved this book, the world building feels like threads being woven together and the whole book has a dreaminess to it. I loved the characters, and the prophecies, the dreams...

This started out slow for me with the world building and character development but about halfway through it picked up to the point I was flipping pages like a mad woman to find out what happened next! The story has magical beings, a Royal hierarchy, an ancient prophecy, family secrets, fated mates and cursed lands. Aurelia was my favorite character who was not afraid to voice her opinion and do what she felt was morally right. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next book with Lark and Nova.

Exploring the Complex

Blood, Iron, and Bone is a fantasy novel that promises a rich and immersive reading experience. With its intricate world-building, multiple POVs, and complex plot, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy a challenge.

*Key Features:*
- *Multi-POV narrative:* The story is told through six different character arcs, which can be disorienting at times, but adds depth and complexity to the narrative.
- *Intricate world-building:* The author has created a unique and immersive world, with a focus on fae and human mythology.
- *Complex plot:* The story unfolds over just a few days, but the non-linear timeline and multiple POVs create a sense of depth and complexity.
- *Romance:* While present, the romance takes a backseat to the mystery and world-building.
*Reading Experience:*
- *Challenging but rewarding:* This book requires focus and investment, but the payoff is well worth the effort.
- *Immersive atmosphere:* The deliberate pacing and focus on exposition and description create an immersive atmosphere, but may slow the narrative momentum at times

Sera Foxe’s Blood Iron and Bone is a richly woven fantasy tale that combines intricate world-building, compelling characters, and a twisty plot that’ll keep readers on their toes. The story begins with Aurelia, a mortal girl drawn by a mysterious call, and Andar, a Fae noble torn between duty and destiny. Their lives intertwine in a realm teetering on the edge of prophecy, where humans and Fae must unite to battle a creeping darkness.

One of the standout features of this book is its ambitious six-point-of-view structure. While it takes some effort to track all the perspectives, it’s also a puzzle that makes the narrative deeply engaging. The multiple voices create a dynamic, layered story that rewards attentive readers with satisfying revelations. That said, there are moments where the POV shifts can feel jarring, requiring a bit of extra focus to navigate.

The pacing is generally strong, covering only a few eventful days in the kingdom of Áithrim. Occasionally, the story takes brief detours, but these moments don’t detract from the overall momentum. The romance subplot, centered around the idea of fated mates, adds emotional depth without overshadowing the high-stakes adventure.

Magic plays a subtle role in this first installment but feels primed for deeper exploration in future books. The hints of a larger, intricate magical system promise exciting developments for the series.

If you love epic fantasies with multiple POVs, fated mates, and hints of found family, Blood Iron and Bone is a must-read. While it’s not a light read, the mental workout is part of the fun. Sera Foxe’s ability to balance complex characters and plot threads makes this book an engaging and rewarding journey.

Perfect for fans of:
✨ Fae x Human dynamics
✨ Found family beginnings
✨ Multi-layered storytelling
✨ World-building with a touch of mystery
✨ Prophecy-driven fantasy with romance on the side

First off, thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Sera Foxe for giving me the opportunity to read this incredible book. Blood, Iron, and Bone pulled me into its pages with an effortless magnetism, immersing me in a world so vibrant and multifaceted that I found myself reluctant to step away from it.

Let’s start with the star of the show: 😍 Aurelia. She’s a mortal girl whose life changes when she’s drawn into the dangerous, glittering Fae kingdom of Áithrim. Aurelia is the kind of protagonist you root for instinctively—brave but uncertain, tough yet deeply human. Her journey felt personal and raw, and every decision she made left me wanting to know what would happen next.

Andar, ⚔️ the brooding warrior with a destiny he can’t escape, had me utterly invested. His internal struggles were written with so much depth, and his chapters brought an intensity that balanced beautifully with Lark, the poised and perceptive princess who has her own battle between duty and desire. Together, their dynamic added layers of tension and intrigue that were just so satisfying to read.

Then there’s Nova 😭😭 , the human girl raised among the Fae, and Cillian, the soldier who sees her as more than what the world defines her to be. Their relationship unfolded with the kind of slow, deliberate pacing that makes you savor every moment. The tension between them felt like a thread pulled taut, always on the edge of snapping—and it was perfect.

One of the strongest elements of the book is how seamlessly these characters’ lives and perspectives intertwine. Each point of view added something essential, creating a narrative web that felt deliberate and alive. Watching their paths cross in unexpected ways left me with that satisfying “ah-ha” feeling more than once.

Áithrim itself is a world to get lost in. The court intrigue, the carefully constructed magic system, and the way prophecy weaves through the story were handled with such skill that it all felt real, like I could almost reach out and touch it. The descriptions were lush without being overly detailed, and the balance between world-building and character development was spot-on.

While the story is beautifully written, there were a few parts that felt sluggish, especially in the middle. Some of the introspection, while meaningful, started to feel a bit repetitive, and I found myself itching for the plot to move forward. Also, while the main characters were wonderfully fleshed out, a handful of side characters felt more like background noise. I wanted to know more about them, to feel their presence in the story as strongly as I felt Aurelia, Andar, Nova, and the others.

And while I personally enjoyed the multiple POVs, I know they can be tricky for some readers. If you don’t pay close attention, it’s easy to feel a little lost at first. But for me, the payoff was worth it.

Blood, Iron, and Bone is the kind of book that lingers long after you’ve closed it. The characters are flawed and relatable, the world-building is immersive and detailed, and the tension—both romantic and otherwise—keeps the pages turning. It’s not without its slow moments, but those moments are outweighed by the emotional depth and the satisfying way the threads come together. This is a must-read for fans of multi-POV fantasy with strong characters, forbidden romance, and a world that feels alive. I can’t wait to see what’s next for these characters and their world. Highly recommend!

Thank you to the authors, Agency Press and NetGalley for an ARC of Blood Iron and Bone!
I enjoyed this one from start to finish. The world building was complex enough that it made the world and the story interesting and intriguing but was also easy to understand! I loved the depth of the characters especially Aurelia’s character development and I’m excited to see how Lark is able to develop her character further on in the series. The story kept me guessing all the way through, trying to figure out how the characters and their worlds were connected and I enjoyed figuring it out alongside them. Would definitely recommend for those who love reading fantasy!

This wasn’t the easiest to follow with there being multiple (six) POVs to follow, but it was a good and interesting read once I managed to keep up with the different POVs. Looking forward to seeing where this goes

3.75⭐️
1🌶️

The story starts off with Aurelia waking up from a recurring nightmare, but this time she hears a strange sound and decides to follow it into the night.

In a parallel fae world, there is a prophecy that the Fae Princess, Lark, is fated to marry the High Commander's son, Andar, in order to break a curse over the Fae lands. But Andar has never felt drawn to Lark in the way fated mates are drawn to one another, so when Aurelia, a human girl hears a strange call in the middle of the night and happens to cross over into the Fae world, everything Andar and Lark have been told their whole life regarding their prophecy, comes into question.

Right from chapter 1, the FMC, Aurelia is instantly relatable. She is a human with a pretty boring life who wishes that the fae and magic from her fantasy books were real. (Honestly, dont we all??) She even pretends her cat is her familiar. (GIRL, SAME.)

I really enjoyed the world-building but there is a lot of information to take in and a lot of strange names of different magical species that was hard to keep track of. Unfortunately I didnt realise there was a glossary as its at the back of the book. Had I known it was there I would have referred to it a few times during the book. But at least now I know there is a glossary, which i'll most likely refer to when I read book 2.

This is quite a challenging read with 6 character POV's told through a single third-person narrator, but after the first few chapters I was used to it.

The writing was also very heavy on detail and on each character's inner monologue. It's very immersive, but wasnt particularly action-driven at first. However the action does pick up towards the end and I can see how the authors are setting the groundwork for books 2 and 3.

There was also a small touch of romance, but its a very light subplot.

At one point in the book when all 6 characters were in the same room arguing with one another and vital information was being shared with them yet NO ONE was listening to it made me want to throw my kindle across the room. But ultimately I think some of the message sunk in which im hoping will be revealed more in book 2.

Overall I enjoyed this book, it took a few chapters to settle into, but then I was fully invested in the story.

**Thank you NetGalley, Agency Press, Olivia and Vilyn (Sera Foxe) for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

3.75 ⭐️

I had to use all my brain power for this one but this book was a trip in the best way! The authors did a fantastic job at weaving six different POVs into a cohesive story line.

This story was extremely immersive and all events took place over the span of 2-3 days. I couldn’t keep up with all the POVs until the 60% mark which took me out of the story a bit. Overall this was an enjoyable read and I’m excited to see where the series goes!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest review!