My name is Vinna, and I’ve been keeping a lot of secrets.
You would too if you’d experienced some of the weird shit I have: red-eyed monsters chasing me, markings on my body appearing out of nowhere, a strange power that crackles colorfully over my skin from time to time, and don’t get me started on the weapons I can conjure up almost out of nowhere.
Lucky for me, I have yet to meet someone whose ass I couldn’t kick, inside the ring or out. I put that to the test when I run headfirst into a fight that brings all my secrets, and reality as I know it, crashing down around me.
Now, I’m looking for answers and trying to piece together what the hell is going on. Paranormal is my new way of life. It’s not going to be easy, and I’m not exactly welcome.
That is, until I meet the boys, and trust me, they are anything but boyish.
I’m up against elders who think I’m too powerful, a family who views me as a threat, and something lurking in the shadows that’s been coming for me my whole life.
There’s not a chance in hell I’m going down without a fight. I’m not lost anymore, and I’m about to show this world exactly what I can do.
Author’s Note: This is the first book in The Lost Sentinel Series and ends with a cliffhanger. This book is a medium burn reverse harem story, intended for ages 18 years and older. This story contains strong language, sexual situations, and violence.
Introduction
As young adult, romance, and fantasy genres continue to sweep the bookish world by storm, we have witnessed a significant surge in influence from BookTok creators, who are introducing fresh and intriguing twists to their audiences. While paranormal romances and urban fantasies may not be new to some, there’s no denying that reverse harem stories have been making a splash on many “for you” pages. So, let’s delve into this thrilling addition to the spicy genre and explore what makes it so enticing.
“I’m not ready for what comes next. I’m not ready to soldier on and make the best of things. My armor is damaged, weak, and I can’t go into battle that way. I can’t win a fight when I have nothing left inside to fight with”
Overview
This book begins with an explosive bang, immediately throwing you into an intense fight scene. Brace yourself, because from start to finish, it’s an action-packed, non-stop roller coaster ride. Meet Vinna, our badass heroine, capable of conjuring weapons out of thin air – like, come on! She is an orphan in an urban paranormal world, surrounded by a host of other supernaturals and no family of her own. The only catch is that she has no idea of her true identity.
Everything changes when Vinna finds herself in a new predicament, encountering a group of casters known as Paladin. They recognize her casting abilities but are unaware of her true nature. This discovery leads to her being whisked away to a community where she can finally learn about herself and the world she’s a part of.
In this new place, Vinna becomes acquainted with five handsome young casters, all training to become Paladins. As she grapples with her attraction to these newcomers, unravels the depths of her powers, and navigates her newfound family, she is thrust into some difficult decisions. Will she stay and embrace her destiny or choose a different path? The journey of self-discovery and steamy encounters.
“Ryker moves to get up, I’m assuming to come to see what in the hell I’m rambling about, and I panic. If he comes near me again right now, I’m done for. I will climb him like a tree, with no hesitation or apology.”
Trigger Warnings
Content warnings in the realm of fantasy literature often tread a curious path, yet I find it necessary to illuminate aspects that could serve as potential triggers for fellow readers. Be advised that these warnings should be taken with care as I am not a licensed therapist and in no way could I identify everything. The following is what stuck out to me and other readers.
Child Abuse/Abuse
It is brought up in the sense of Vinna’s past and is talked about regularly throughout the story. There is also insinuated abuse of kidnapped individuals.
Assault/ Violence
This is a heavy and prevalent theme in this novel if you are uncomfortable with violence of any kind I would just skip this read.
Death
There is a death scene in which Vinna has to grapple with her grief and deal with loss.
Kidnapping
There is a kidnapping scenario in which people are tied up and much escape, there is no torture it is only insinuated that it happened.
Tropes in the Story:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Orphan
- Virgin/unexpected virgin
- Rags to Riches
- Lovers in Denial
- Emotional Scars
- Rejected as unworthy by parents
- Reverse Harem
“It will all work out, love, exactly how it’s supposed to in the end. Trust yourself, trust others with your heart and vulnerability. You’re an exceptional female, don’t be afraid of happiness, fight for what you deserve.”
Thoughts
As an avid fan of urban paranormal romances, I’ve been immersed in the captivating worlds crafted by authors like J.R. Ward and Rachel Vincent from the beginning. So, it came as no surprise that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. However, what’s new to me is the concept of reverse harems. Being only the second reverse harem book I’ve read, the first being Cruel Princes by Jillian Frost (which I didn’t quite connect with, probably because of the mafia theme), I found myself loving the combination of urban paranormal romance with a reverse harem element. Now, that’s right up my alley!
To say I was not prepared for the experience is an understatement. These men were intoxicating and dreamy; I was falling in love with all of them. It felt like being in one of those ‘gotcha’ games where princes vie for your attention – swoon-worthy. This genre might just become my new favorite!
However, a couple of things did disrupt my immersion in the story. Firstly, the abundance of swearing by Vinna, the protagonist, felt a bit excessive. I don’t mind swearing, but it seemed a little over the top, almost like a teenager trying out the f-word for the first time. Secondly, there’s a betrayal revealed later in the plot that sets up the next book, Awakened, and Betrayed. Frankly, I struggled to understand why Vinna felt betrayed, given the circumstances. When strangers offer you food, shelter, and clothing, it’s reasonable for them to be cautious, especially considering her extreme displays of power and violence in their home. But that’s just my take on it, and minor spoilers aside, it didn’t hinder my overall enjoyment of the book.
Conclusion
Setting aside any reservations, this was an incredibly enjoyable read. Believe me when I say, I was utterly reluctant to part ways with this book once I had started. In fact, I devoured its pages in a mere twelve hours as part of my ongoing audiophile series.
As someone who appreciates series like The Black Dagger Brotherhood by J.R. Ward and the Stray series by Rachel Vincent, I can confidently recommend this book to fans of those captivating worlds. It has all the elements that make a paranormal romance exceptional – a richly imagined setting, and an action-packed plot that leaves you eagerly awaiting the next installment. Just a fair warning this book has an intense cliffhanger in which you will find it hard to not go straight to the next book.
In conclusion, I’m eagerly looking forward to exploring more of the author’s works. If you’re seeking a thrilling, emotionally charged, and utterly swoon-worthy urban paranormal romance, look no further. This book has it all!
