The Forest at the Heart of Her Mage: A Sapphic Fantasy Romance

Hiyodori is my author ‘discovery’ of the summer – she writes relationships so well. Her characters are complex, messy, emotionally scarred, bent but not broken by life. Not always likeable, and very, very real. Tiller is a ‘forester’, one of a tribe of forest people who emigrated to the cities; now she seeks to return to the forest to bring the ashes of fallen family members home. But the forest is full of dark magic and tragic memories for her, and to do this, she’ll need a mage bodyguard. Enter Carnelian, a mage who loves to flirt, drink, and take risks–and who’s burdened by magical abilities that were forced on her at a young age–who promises to help her on one condition: that she marry her. There’s such a great dynamic between these two: their reluctantly-symbiotic relationship as mage and handler AND their evolving romantic relationship–the way they learn to trust each other. It’s NOT a smooth road for them. I also loved the way the story goes into what we owe to our families after they pass, and how we help each other heal. It’s a slow-burn romance with a slow-burn plot, some body horror, some absolutely gorgeous language, and so much heart. Easily one of the best books I’ve read this year (and it might end up being the best)

I loved this book. I wish it were a series. I want to know more about their happily ever after. This story is very clean so if you like a lot of smut, you’ll be disappointed but if you love romance and watching a relationship bloom through guilt, secrets and raw emotions, this book was incredible. I feel like I’m not doing it justice. It was so so good.

I definitely recommend this book. The writing was well done, and the story was interesting. Give it a try. I don't think you'll be disappointed.

I loved this story so much. I loved the quirky dialogue, the flawed characters, the commentary on grief, abuse, and healing. The forest as metaphors on colonization, forced removal from the land, indigeneity. The forest as metaphor for the earth’s decay and anger. I absolutely adored this and would recommend it to all.

Wow, another amazing beautifully written story! These two main characters have amazing chemistry and an even amazing story, a MUST read!