Julie Soto has become an auto-buy author for me. Her books are addicting and after realizing that I have so long before the next one will even come out on NetGalley… dangggg… That SLOW BURN amiright??

THE SLOW BURN WAS SLOW BURRNNNINNNNNGGGGGG JULIE ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME!!!!

I LOVED this book. I may be biased because I read The Auction originally, and I love anything Dramione coded, but I still LOVED this book. Despite its origins as fanfic, this story fully stands on its own. Soto weaves flashbacks throughout the story to really build up their backstory and there's plenty of mystery to be found in this new story.

I loved the new magic system, and the worldbuilding added a level of political machinations that I absolutely adored. The politics behind the Seat and the succession at play felt very fresh and new!

Finally, the chemistry between Briony and Toven was off the charts. So, SO good. I didn't realize that this would be a series and screamed at the ending. Be warned - it's a VERY SLOW BURN. So good but AHHHH.

Massive fan, already chomping at the bit for the next.

I appreciate getting an ARC for this book. Unfortunately it wasn’t really my cup of tea, but I can definitely see how people are going to love it. It’s very dark and serious with an enemies to lovers and plot that I think quite few readers will immensely enjoy. Whilst it wasn’t my favourite, I can still see myself hand selling this title at work to just the right customer

*Rose in Chains* is an exquisitely crafted tale that immerses readers in a world of intricate magic and simmering tension. The narrative unfolds with deliberate pacing, drawing the reader deeper into a realm where the boundaries between good and evil blur. The magic system is refreshingly innovative yet accessible, allowing readers to engage fully without being overwhelmed by complexity. The world-building is richly detailed, providing a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama.

What truly sets this novel apart is the masterful development of its central relationship. Briony and Toven epitomize the essence of a true enemies-to-lovers dynamic. Their interactions are charged with an intensity that builds gradually, creating a slow burn that is as agonizing as it is rewarding. Toven’s character, in particular, is layered with nuance—his motivations and allegiances remain enigmatic, making every quiet moment shared with Briony a revelation that peels back another layer of his guarded exterior.

The inclusion of flashbacks adds depth to the narrative, offering glimpses of a past that enriches the present storyline. These moments are woven seamlessly into the plot, enhancing the emotional stakes and providing crucial context for the characters’ choices. The pacing, while occasionally uneven, ultimately serves the story well by allowing for moments of introspection amidst the action.

Readers should be prepared for a narrative that does not shy away from the harsh realities of a world in turmoil. The aftermath of war and its impact on the defeated are portrayed with unflinching honesty, making for a reading experience that is both gripping and, at times, emotionally taxing. Prospective readers would be wise to review the trigger warnings, as this story delves into themes that may be challenging for some.

The conclusion leaves readers on the precipice of what promises to be an even more perilous journey ahead. The stakes have been set, and the anticipation for the next installment is palpable. I found myself reflecting on the story long after turning the final page, and the wait for the sequel feels almost unbearable!

I absolutley loved this book! I was gripped into the story as soon as I started and finished it in one sitting. I loved the authors writing style because it made it very easy to read and follow the plot. The characters were very unique but there journey was amazing and extremely satisfying to read. I will be recommending this book to all of my family and friends.

WOW. All of Julie’s romance books have been a solid 5 stars for me, but Rose in Chains blew me away. I was instantly gripped and completely sucked in right off the bat. I couldn't stop reading until it was done, and then I proceeded to (mildly? Maybe not so mildly) freakout that it was done because that ending?! This hasn’t even been offically published yet and I am already on my knees for the next books. PLEASE.

THANK YOU for the ARC!!!


CW: this book is definitely more on the darker side. I highly suggest checking out the content warnings before diving in. For a detailed list of content warnings, please visit www.juliesotowrites.com.

I had high expectations for this because I am a big fan of Julie Soto’s other work…(if you get my drift), and this book met all of them and more. The slow burn and chemistry between Briony and Toven is everything you want in a Romantasy book. The magic system was interesting yet understandable, the world building was fleshed out, the characters are both lovable and hate able at times. I also, very surprisingly, didn’t see that ending coming and now I cannot wait for the next book.

This is one of those books that my opinion varies from what I know will be popular.

I was unaware this was a Dramione fanfiction when I picked it up but I am a big fan of Julie Soto and wanted to give it a go. This book is not a complete story so there will be more in the series.

This is well written and the overall story was interesting. There were darker elements that were a just bit too much for me right now. I will absolutely be reccomending this to the right audience

Rated 4 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC ebook.

Julie Soto's Rose in Chains isn't your typical fantasy romance. Forget the triumphant hero and the quick victory; this story plunges you into a world where evil has unequivocally won. The hero is dead, the light extinguished, and the survivors are left to pick up the shattered pieces of their lives. It's a bold and compelling premise that immediately grabs your attention and refuses to let go.
The story centers on Briony Rosewood, the princess of Evermore, whose capture after her kingdom falls marks the beginning of a harrowing journey. Stripped of her magic and forced into slavery, Briony's journey is one of resilience and quiet defiance in the face of unimaginable oppression. Soto masterfully captures the emotional toll of Briony's loss – the loss of her kingdom, her freedom, and her very identity. Her forced participation in the auction scene is particularly gut-wrenching, highlighting the vulnerability and degradation of the conquered.
The tension begins when Briony is bought by Toven Hearst, the heir to a family notorious for their cruelty. This is where the book truly shines. Soto expertly crafts a complex dynamic between Briony and Toven. He is everything she despises, a symbol of the oppressive regime that has destroyed her world. Yet, the glimpses of something more beneath his hardened exterior offer a glimmer of hope amidst the despair. This inherent conflict, the push and pull between hatred and a possible, albeit unlikely, connection, forms the captivating core of the narrative.
Overall, Julie Soto has crafted a world that is both brutal and beautiful, populated with characters that are flawed, compelling, and ultimately, undeniably human. If you're looking for a fantasy romance that dares to explore the darker side of victory, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable oppression, then Rose in Chains is a must-read.

I sat on this review for over a week because I'm not sure how my own words can do the experience that is Rose in Chains justice.

Truly so captivating, addicting, and enthralling, I could NOT put Rose in Chains down. This was everything I want in a romantasy book -- darkness, mystery, strong female characters, a tension filled slow burn, and just enough crumbs to keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time and begging on your hands and knees for the completed series already.

You definitely do NOT want to miss this one because at this point Julie Soto NEVERRR misses.

🥀 dark romantasy
🥀 political intrigue
🥀 enemies to lovers
🥀 forced proximity
🥀 slow burn
🥀 flashbacks
🥀 rival kingdoms
🥀 yearning, pining, chemistry, and banter
🥀 omg just DO IT ALREADYYYYYY

The opening / framing are full of SA (mostly off-page), and I am very much not a Dramione shipper, but Julie Soto isn’t my favorite romance novelist for nothing: the FMC/MMC dynamics were full of delicious tension. I enjoyed this a lot more once I stopped trying to figure out the HP parallels and got some distance from the rough opening. Fingers crossed both of those aspects are less prominent in the next two books. Just be warned the CWs abound in this one.

Thank you to ForeverPub and Hachette for the gifted ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

JULIE!!! This book left me in such a bad book hangover that the only thing that could fix it was rereading the rest of The Auction followed by all of the fics linked that also take place in the Rights and Wrongs universe 😩 considering this book isn’t even out yet - HOW are we supposed to wait for two more books to come out 🥲

I say this with my full chest: this book is everything I want in a romantasy. Mystery, some darkness, strong female characters, and plot that leave you wondering how on earth will everything get fixed???? And on top of it all one of my favorite slow burns - the kind where he obviously pines for her and she’s completely oblivious to it.

Julie I love you. You did it again. You have FED the people and we are forever grateful.

***** OMG! Love Julie Soto's writing in her other books and wasn’t sure with the genre change. But she can write! This book was amazing. Great world building and a variety of characters. Enemies to lovers, magic, dragons. If you love Thorne of Glass, ACOTAR, Fourth Wing this is your next read. Reminded me of The Handmaids Tale as well. Cringey at parts but I couldn’t put it down. Binge read all night!

This was so exciting to read!! Being a fan of this author during her fan fiction days, it was so interesting and cool to see how she adapted the fan fiction and really made it into her own work! I think my only critique is, I think if I didn’t read the fan fiction, I would have been a little confused with the setting and world building of this book. I’m curious to see if this was on purpose and maybe we will be seeing more world building and explanation into this new world and magic system with the rest of the books of the series!
Overall, I loved both of the characters and their complexity! Even tho there is a substantial amount of side characters that we are introduced, I didn’t find myself being confused on each character!
The slow burn romance was so exciting and the tension between the two main characters made everything worth the wait!!
Can’t wait for the rest of this series!

This is definitely one of the easiest five-star ratings I’ve given this year. I can’t wait for everyone to dive into the fantasy world Julie has created because it is PER. FECT.

First, she did an amazing job recreating this world in her own way while still giving a nod to the original fanfic readers. She’s such a gem for doing that, and I love her even more now.

Second, the story is fantastic, and she made it even better with this traditional publication. The characters, storyline, world-building, and progression of the plot are all gold. I adore Brioney and Toven so much, and I can’t believe I have to wait so long for book two *sobs as I open another Dramione fanfic to soothe my soul*

Finally, a quick recap of what to expect: The story begins at the end of a war, where the villain emerges victorious. Those who fought against the villain are captured and sold at an auction to the villain’s followers. The bidders are encouraged to drain the captives’ powers for their own gain. But what happens when Brioney is purchased by the love interest she’s had since childhood? And what was his true motive for bidding on her in the first place?

It’s so good, you guys! Add this to the top of your TBR for July!

The emotional reck this book left me in is crazy. I couldn’t put it down!! I have got all my friends to preorder it so I can have someone to talk to about. Honestly a masterpiece and I can’t wait for book 2 to come out!

5 billion stars, BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR!!!!!!

This was the greatest slow burn of ALL TIME. You guys there’s no spice in this. None. It is ALL GLORIOUS PLOT and the best world building!!!!! Julie did such a good job making this unique and separating it from HP. I am on a mission to read her entire backlog now. The writing was SO. GOOD.

This was pretty dark though so definitely check your triggers!!! I was upset a few times 😢 but I appreciate that it wad realistic and Julie wasn’t afraid to talk about the hard stuff that comes along with a war like this.

I’m obsessed. Actually obsessed. What do you do when you’ve read the best book in existence?!

This romantasy deserves to take over the world in a similar fashion to Fourth Wing imo. It was truly one of the greatest books I’ve ever read. Idk that I’ve ever been so sucked into a book like this before.

Thank you netgalley for the arc but omg it doesn’t even come out till July and now I have to suffer for an eternity to read book 2. I’m so upset.

I am everything. I’m dejected. Devastated. Giddy. Bordering hysterical. What am I supposed to do now? Am I supposed to just put this book down and go live life like the whole world hasn’t fully shifted its axis without me?

I am deeply familiar with the origins of this story and somehow…. I felt like every page was something brand new and wholly unexpected. A few scenes or sentences felt like being wrapped in the warmth of an old friend but by far and large I am shocked by the richness of the story building. The heartspring thread that’s woven through this story is an absolutely delightful shift from a lot of the currently popular trope (fated mates, forced bonds, etc). Briony and Toven are my Roman Empire and I love how flashbacks are interwoven to build future scenes.
The burn is SLOOOOOOOOW but the lap practice? Sweet mother of the water hold me it’s glorious.
I will die on the hill of this trilogy unseating ACOTAR and TOG as the love child of the BookTok world. Sliiiiiiiide over Sarah J because my girl Julie has arrived.

This was amazing?? I went in very blind to what the story was about and I’m so glad I did. I loved the characters and the story was so different and interesting. The world building was so well done and not confusing at all. Briony was a great main character who was very well crafted and complex and I’m really excited to follow her through the rest of the series. Toven, my man, I love him and thought his character was ALSO super well done with making him secretly good and his family is so nuanced. Even though it was originally a fanfic, I can see where the characters stemmed from but the plot is SO different and better in my opinion. I will be screaming about this book until it comes out and beyond then too.

Rose in Chains is a captivating and immersive fantasy that blends dark, high stakes romance with a complex world of magic and betrayal.

Briony Rosewood is a heroine who is both vulnerable and strong, and her journey from captive to player in a game of political and magical intrigue is truly engaging. After her kingdom is overtaken and her life turned upside down, Briony’s resilience shines through as she faces both external enemies and internal struggles. The world-building is fantastic, with the distinct magical systems of Mind and Heart Magic adding layers of depth to the story.

The romance between Briony and Toven is filled with emotional conflict and a mix of attraction, frustration, and forbidden tension. AND BOY IS THIS A SLOW BURN IF IVE EVER READ ONE.

The only reason it's not 5 stars is due to the fact it felt repetitive at times and possibly slightly dragged in the middle, although I appreciate the scene has to be set and the world and magic and politics explained, especially as this is the first book in a series. I will be intrigued to pick up book 2 to see where this story goes as I think this was a GREAT set up but things are going to start getting juicy in the next books.