SCORCHED by Reese Sherron

I want to say a massive, massive thank you to Reese Sherron for the chance to read this book as an ARC!

SCORCHED is the first book in the ‘A Ballad of Fire’ series, and focuses on Serene, a woman from Alaska who gets dragged into the realm of Azure after entering a forbidden mountain, where she learns she is the one to rescue it from chaos.

This book is officially at the top of the tops for me—my absolute favourite Romantasy in 2025 AND one of my all-time favourites next to the ACOTAR and Throne of Glass series! The world-building, lore, characters, the action—ALL of it—was cleverly and phenomenally written in the best way possible. I don’t know how Sherron came up with her ideas and put them into a coherent narrative, because it genuinely looks like it was written by itself! Everything flowed so well; the transitions were seamless, and all came together in the end.

I absolutely LOVE Serene! She’s stubborn but absolutely headstrong, a complete fighter and survivor wherever she is. She stands her ground and stays true to herself by sticking to her morals. She’s absolutely fearless—a testament to how you can come into your own when the whole world is against you.

And then there’s Koen, who needs a massive hug and needs to be protected! He’s been through so, so much. With everything that has happened, he truly deserves everything. And the complicated relationship he has with Serene? Absolutely beautiful yet heartbreaking—a love that is forbidden but challenged with yearning. A couple forced apart but inseparable and destined to be together. They better be endgame because I NEED more of their witty banter, heated tension, and the undeniable, intimate brooding!

I love Prince Florian just as much. He’d do whatever it takes to ensure Serene’s safety, whether from her foes or even his own family. He’s affectionate and cares about her a lot, even going as far as healing her at the cost of his powers. I already know I’m going to be torn choosing between him and Koen as my favourite!

Also, what was that ending??? I desperately NEED to know what happens in the next book because the main characters all have a special place in my heart (Florian especially)!

If you love Fourth Wing, Outlander, Viking, and Reign, Scorched is definitely for you! Even if you don’t enjoy them, the tension and romance are SO worth it!!

SCORCHED is released on October 15th 2025 and you can pre-order your copy on Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.