There’s a reason I don’t usually pick up fantasy/romance books (I refuse to say ‘romantasy’) when the series is just beginning—because if it’s good, I’ll be hooked, and then I’ll be stuck waiting. That’s exactly what happened here. It was my mistake choosing this one to read as an ARC because it is quite good, and now my impatience is going to skyrocket until the next book comes out.

As you all may or may not know, I am already a fan of Charlie N. Holmberg’s books. I loved the Whimbrel House series, and I have the Spellbreaker and Paper Magician series both in my TBR pile. This book adds to my belief that she is a good writer.

We meet Nym, a magical (craftlock) healer who is taking care of her siblings after losing their mother and father. The kingdom of Cansere is preparing for war and drafting its citizens into service, as proved by her younger brother being called up. Much to her surprise, she receives a letter from the queen herself, calling her into service, but this service is to help heal Prince Renn.

Prince Renn is trapped in his own body, having an unknown illness on top of injuries obtained when he fell down a long set of stone stairs. It has made him cold and distant, believing he will never be healed.

Nym arrives intending to fail the test so she can return to her family, but she’s intrigued by Renn’s illness and torn about not using her gift to help. She manages to heal a very small part of his illness, but it is more than any healer before has managed to do. In doing so, she becomes indentured to the royal family to spend every waking hour trying to fix Renn’s other ailments. In living there, she learns the connections between the rest of the royal family and finds herself drawn to the prince as his walls slowly come down.

This book has quite a lot to enjoy. The descriptive writing allows the reader to picture themselves in the story. Whether it is the cold stone walls of Nym’s room, Renn’s posh chambers, or the bustling market of Nation’s Row, the writing lets you lose reality as you walk along with the characters. The magic system is unique and creative, which makes this book all the more interesting. There are no magical blasts from cast spells, but quiet changes made through abilities that had once remained hidden.

Their romance is a slow burn but worth the wait. The progression of their relationship is something that both of them fight (mostly Nym), but inevitably give in to. For those who are keeping score, there are no spicy scenes in this book, but the romance is beautiful.

All in all, this book is well worth reading. Even though I’m frustrated by the cliffhanger, it’s a testament to how invested I’ve become. I’ll absolutely be picking up the next book—and that’s exactly what any author hopes to achieve.

The opinions expressed in this review are my own. Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher 47North, and the author herself for allowing me to read this ARC.