The West Wind follows the story of a self-serving immortal god and a devout Daughter of Thornbrook who seeks only to please the Father by upholding her vows and strives to become an acolyte. This is a story about forgiveness, love and understanding, about being seen. It encourages us to actually look within and question what we want from life. Alexandria Warwick takes you on a journey through the Under where you will meet all manner of fair folk.
"It takes courage to walk a new path."
This book will have a special place in my heart.

“A man lies prone on the ground at my feet, and if I am not mistaken, he is dead.”

Coming off the back of the first book in the Four Winds series, The North Wind, the second story, The West Wind follows Zephyrus, the West Wind or the Bringer of Spring, introduced as a villain/antagonist in the first one, and Brielle, a Daughter of Thornbrook, a deeply religious abbey of women who dedicate their lives to the service of the Father and the community around them. They live very strict lives and one big rule is to not have any contact with men, or Fae Folk.

I have to say that I found it hard to connect with Brielle throughout the story. Her intense level of piety was difficult for me to connect with and I did struggle a little. Obviously, her commitment is commendable but a little ‘in your face’. I loved that she progressed so much throughout the story and finally came to a realisation that she could love her god from anywhere and in different ways, allowing her to accept and love Zephyrus… and herself, most importantly.

I loved Zephyrus - he’s definitely on the ‘morally grey’ scale… heading to the darkest end. I’m a sucker for a reformed villain and he fit that so well.

The story itself was a fun and eventful adventure through the human and fae worlds, and godly realms. I loved the introduction of some characters I hope we see or hear about in future books, and seeing another of the ‘Winds’... I’m presuming his book might be next as Zephyrus was introduced in the North Wind. It had some slow parts, and parts I couldn’t connect with but all in all I thought it was a really great read and I can’t wait for more from this world!

Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia and NetGalley for this title.

I throughly enjoyed this romantasy! A number of times I put it down, but had to pick it back up ASAP to find out what was happening. I loved the enemies-to-lovers, slow burn romance. I thought the protagonist, Brielle's story, had an interesting discussion of faith, devotion and what it means to be loyal.

So glad I read this one and very much looking forward to the next one!

Another beautifully written novel from Alexandria Warwick.
The West Wind has a strong religious element expertly intertwining with the Greek mythology vibe.

This novel is the sequel to the incredible book "The North Wind", however both can be standalones.

We have great insight into our FMC, Brielle, from everything she does throughout the novel described in perfect detail, to the words she wants to say (but doesn't), the thoughts she thinks to the actions she wants to take. All creating a wonderfully complete picture of who she is - and how/why she develops throughout the novel.
Beginning as a faithful servant to her lord and saviour, "The Father" living within a church like compound know as "Thornbrook", she defied one of their vows to help a man (or so she thought) in desperate need of help. In the events after, she is forced to prove her faith in a quest to become the next acolyte. And well wouldn't you know it...Zephyrus is there to tag along.

Picking up where we left off with Zephyrus, our MMC, he is immediately described as being deceitful and Brielle is warned not to trust him...well ever. But his situation is not as we once thought. He is a tortured soul and is literally on a leash held by the "Orchid King" - a nasty God who's goal in life is to gain power at the hands of The West Winds suffering, and our villain of the novel. Zephyrus' actions throughout this novel are rash because of this arrangement, and he wants out. However, the more time spent in Brielles company, the more his outlook is changing as she is as selfless as they come, a concept Zephyrus is baffled to understand.
Yes! We do get answers from events that occurred in "The North Wind". Love that!
With his fear of abandonment and her fear of loneliness, they come to depend on one another for an epic love story.

Our side characters fit in perfectly.
Harper, our #1 enemy, is a woman scorned right from the start - and she has some serious anger issues. Her audacity puts me on edge and I question what her real motives are for joining the church. Honestly, she is a down right bitch. Her redemption story was poor. But I must admit, I loved hating her!
Our sprite bestie, Lissi, is a pinch of brightness in an otherwise pretty dark place, let's be honest. She is helpful and selfless as Brielle, and I believe they see each other within. I do wish we saw more of her thoughtout the novel.
And of course, Mother Mabel, our badass and fearless leader. She is the mother figure to Brielle and the women of Thornbrook, but she carries secrets non of whom would even guess at. Skilled with a sword and a hard stare, she is an integral part of our villain story, and becomes somewhat of a villain herself.

After meeting "The South Wind" in this story, I sincerely hope he is the next MMC!! He sounds like a God who says little, knows much and holds secrets.

3.5/5 stars 🌟

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The West Wind by Alexandria Warwick is a captivating fantasy novel that shines through its intricate world-building and vivid descriptions, drawing readers into a mystical realm of elemental magic and ancient powers. The chemistry between the main characters is palpable, filled with tension and slow-burn romance that builds steadily throughout the story.

Warwick’s writing style is lyrical and immersive, blending rich details with emotional depth, while the pacing remains steady, though some parts feel slower as the world is carefully unveiled.

The balance between action and introspection keeps the narrative engaging, and the character development adds to the overall depth of the plot.

A standout quote, "The wind speaks to those who listen, and in its whispers, we find our strength," perfectly encapsulates the themes of power and self-discovery that run through the book. Overall,

The West Wind is a beautifully written, enchanting read that lingers long after the final page.