The Pure Essence of Fantasy! A Must-Read!
The West Wind
The Four Winds (Book 2)
Greek & Roman Mythology Retelling, Gothic Fantasy, Fairytale Fantasy, Romantasy
S&S/Saga Press
November 12, 2024
ebook, paperback, audiobook
461
From the author of The North Wind comes a darkly reimagined tale of forbidden love, inspired by the Greek myth of Hero and Leander and the Scottish ballad Tam Lin.
Brielle of Thornbrook has dedicated her life to the abbey. She spends her days forging iron and her evenings studying the Text, all in preparation of becoming an acolyte. Twenty-one years on this earth and she has never touched a man. And she never will.
But when she finds an injured stranger in the forest, Brielle can’t resist the urge to help him. The encounter leads her to the realm of Under, where the air breathes rot, and the fair folk dance and whisper. Where she discovers that the man she helped is actually a god: Zephyrus, the West Wind, Bringer of Spring.
There are few Brielle can trust in Under, least of all Zephyrus. He is charming, dangerously so, and never has a man so thoroughly ensnared her. As she embarks on a journey through the eerie banks and caves of Under, Brielle finds herself in a perilous situation. For here is where faith and heart collide—and where she risks not only her future…but her life.
If I were tougher in nature, I would not bend, I would not break. I’d sting and sever, slice and wound. All who met the tip of my blade would weep blood.
Not only was I able to fangirl in the presence of Alexandria Warwick, but this lovely human also graciously gifted me a paperback ARC of her stunning newest release, The West Wind, while we were at Romantasy Book Con in Orlando last month. The second in a four book series, The West Wind follows Brielle of Thornbrook who is a novitiate in an abbey, destined to live her life devoted to the Father of her faith.
I adored Brielle as a character. Getting to know Brielle through her selfless acts show her devotion to her faith but also shows her strength of character. Regardless of how other’s may treat her Brielle’s determination to remain true to herself is a constant trait. Her willingness to break the strict rules of her faith in order to help others shows her humanity and kindness.
Maybe that was my downfall. I, Brielle of Thornbrook, have always cared, and because I care, I place others before myself.
While Zephyrus, The West Wind, is clearly a temptation for her, time and time again she falls back on trusting an untrustworthy god because of her determination to see the good in everyone, and Zephyrus is no different. Brielle’s journeys to Under become more treacherous with each entry. Although she does make friends wherever she goes.
lantern gif via tenor
Alexandria Warwick brings mythology retellings to life with The West Wind. Both Brielle’s and Zephyrus’ story arcs are so alluring. Each are great on their own but combined they become an impeccably written romance. The entire cast of characters become larger than life in their own right. The Orchid King, Mother Mabel, and even Harper are all critical to Brielle’s journey and for Zephyrus as well.
If the Text has taught me anything, it’s that we are all born with equal potential. I am but kindling that has yet to burn.
The West Wind is masterfully crafted and easily read as a standalone. Although, I do recommend you read The North Wind as Boreas and Wren are mentioned, though their storyline is given an explanation. I look forward to meeting the other two brothers The South Wind and The East Wind. I guarantee that fantasy romance lovers will swoon over Alexandria Warwick’s The West Wind! Go grab your copy today!
Jes is a self-proclaimed bookworm, who recently moved from the PNW back to the Midwest. When her nose isn’t in a book, she’s spending time with her husband, two kids, and her three fur babies, or exploring the globe. She also firmly believes that you should start the day with coffee, and end the day in bed with a good book.
