The West Wind

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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.

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!

After reading the first book the north wind I was so pumped to read this one!

And I wasn’t disappointed i loved the characters development from the first book they grew a lot I can’t wait for this to continue

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.

I went into this book with a large dislike for Zephyrus after reading The North Wind... And I'm leaving it absolutely loving him.

The character growth for him in this story is incredible. As well as for Brielle as she struggles between her faith and following her heart.

I was pleasantly surprised at how different this story was to the first book despite being set in the same world. I loved the journey Brielle went on.

The epilogue for this book is just as perfect as the one from the first book. Sure to make you laugh.

“It takes courage to walk a new path.”

Following Brielle on her journey was both intriguing and enjoyable. Having already met Zephyrus in the North Wind I went in with a preconceived notion of who I thought he was. Understanding the complexity of his character completely changed my perception of him.

There were moments where I audibly gasped and shook my kindle and moments where I cheered. Overall I really enjoyed The West Wind and can’t wait for more of the series.

This was beautiful, I’m speechless honestly I don’t know what to say besides the fact that this was amazing.

“The West Wind is a force, and helplessly, I’m swept downstream.”

Brielle, a dedicated novitiate of Thornbrook, only dreams of becoming an acolyte and dedicating her life to the Father. Her world is thrown upside down when she comes across an injured man in the forest, Zephyrus, the West Wind. Her encounter with the Bringer of Spring takes her on a journey through Under, and Brielle must confront all she knows, and battle between her faith and her heart.

“You would do well to heed my warning, young novitiate. Do not trust Zephyrus. He will use you for his own gain.”

Having read and enjoyed The North Wind, I was looking forward to this instalment focusing on the trickster Zephyrus, and I was not disappointed! I really enjoyed the adventure and quest aspect of the story, it added excitement to the plot, as the romance is a slow burn. The depth and growth of both Brielle and Zephyrus is well done, and I loved being on the journey with them. This book is foremost a romance story, but it is also a story about self-growth and the courage needed to be vulnerable.

“‘I believe there are few good things in this world,’ he says, ‘but the kindness of your heart might be the best thing I have ever experienced, in any lifetime.’”

The Four Winds has become a loved series of mine and I will definitely be continuing. Thank you Netgalley and Simon and Schuster Australia for this ARC.

Such a great story! I loved The North Wind but I think I like this one even better
Thank you for the ARC

The fair folk’s king requires his tithe every 7 years. Every 7 years the daughters at the Abbey pay with their blood. Brielle, a noviciate and daughter, works as a bladesmith to ensure the iron daggers are ready for the journey to the Under to appease the Under King.

Brielle is obedient, subservient and sure of her God.
Until she stumbles across an unconscious man who makes her question everything she believes and holds dear to her heart.
Zephyrus is an outcast God. Known for his manipulative and selfish characteristics. When Brielle unwittingly assists his recovery she creates a debt that must be repaid.
Will this debt be both of their undoing?

I am surprised with how much I enjoyed this book. I didn’t struggle through the introduction and world building like I did with the North Wind.

I love Brielle, while innocent she is not naive to the world. As a plus size FMC she is written so well! Her journey through her faith is explored in a respectful way that makes sense to the experiences she faces as a character.

Zephyrus, Zephyrus, Zephyrus… I adore him. Even after his choices in the North Wind and I’m so glad we learnt more of his back story and reasons why he is the way he is. I will forgive him for any of his shortcomings.

Alexandria Warwick is a master at writing some unlikeable characters in short frames and boy did Harper make my blood boil. How she does this needs to be studied.

If you were on the fence after the North Wind don’t let that stop you from picking up the West Wind. It’s worth reading. It still encompasses all the fantasy tropes and locations while taking us on a unique journey of faith, love and redemption.