THE BONE DAGGER by Clara Rhodes
Release Date: July 21st
Genre/Tropes: Dark Romantasy / Epic Fantasy / Prey to predator FMC / Mental health arcs/healing arcs / Reluctant allies/Reluctant hero / Slowburn / Cursed magic / Mortals versus Monsters / Revenge/Redemption arcs / Forced proximity / High Stakes
THE BONE DAGGER by Clara Rhodes is NOW LIVE!
Make sure to grab this all-new epic, slow burn, dark romantasy today!
AVAILABLE NOW!
The Bone Dagger is a strong debut fantasy that lays the groundwork for what promises to be an exciting series. Clara Rhodes creates an intriguing world filled with curses, monsters, ancient magic, and just enough mystery to keep you turning the pages.
Helaina has spent her entire life hidden away, knowing she was different but never truly understanding why. Feeling more like a prisoner than someone being protected, it's easy to understand why she resented those closest to her. When tragedy takes everything from her, she loses the will to keep going—until Theo enters her life and forces her to make a choice: live for something or die for nothing.
I won't lie—some of Helaina's interactions with Theo gave me a bit of whiplash. Her feelings and reactions toward him shifted so quickly at times that it pulled me out of the story and left me a little frustrated. That said, I really enjoyed Theo's role in challenging Helaina to stop seeing herself as a victim and realize that her loved ones didn't die in vain. Watching her slowly discover a purpose beyond her grief was one of my favorite parts of the book.
I also loved the dual timeline. The glimpses into the past gradually unraveled Helaina's history while adding emotional depth to everything happening in the present. It was a clever way to reveal secrets without slowing the momentum of the story.
Overall, The Bone Dagger delivers an engaging blend of fantasy, danger, and slow-building romance. While Helaina's character took some getting used to, the worldbuilding, unfolding mysteries, and compelling setup have me eager to see where this series goes next.
In this spellbinding debut fantasy, passion and peril entwine in a tale of curses, monsters, and forbidden desire. Perfect for fans of dark romance, this sweeping first installment introduces a heroine whose heart may be as dangerous as her power.
Born with the blood of a hell god in her veins, Helaina Ironblood has lived her life in secrecy, hidden from a realm already teetering on the edge of ruin. When tragedy shatters her family and the heir to the throne is lost, Helaina is cast into exile--her cursed power now a beacon to enemies who would see the world burn. Beyond the Ash Cliff Mountains, monsters stalk the land, and darker forces hunger for the weapon Helaina carries within her.
Seized by Theodon Wrenn, the feared captain of a mysterious legion, Helaina is thrust into a war that stretches far beyond her imagining. Ruthless, commanding, and bound by secrets of his own, Theodon believes she is the key to victory. Yet the more he tries to bend her to his will, the more he is drawn to her defiance--and to the dangerous fire in her blood. Unlocking her power requires the Bone Dagger, an ancient relic that binds gods, beasts, and mortals alike, but demands a price--Helaina's mortal life.
Torn between the man who would sacrifice her and the destiny she never wanted, Helaina must decide whether her curse will bring salvation ... or ruin.
Known as the fun mom who embraces chaos, she loves fitness, reading, and making memories with her family. After experiencing the loss of both her siblings, she turned grief into creativity and began writing her debut romantasy novel. Her first book was started with the intention to help others who are navigating grief feel less alone. Now, with stories pouring out, she envisions a second career as an author, bringing her love for storytelling to life.
Website: https://www.clararhodesauthor.com/
Amazon: https://geni.us/Bgd0d
