This lush dark gothic fantasy debut by Lindsey Hart weaves haunting worldbuilding, goddess-blessed magic, and an aching slow-burn romance into a story of legacy, devotion, and survival. Perfect for fans of V.E. Schwab, Rachel Gillig, and Hannah Whitten-and for readers who crave gothic fantasy steeped in tension, magic, and emotional depth.

Aurelia Moirae never asked for power-or for the gods who carved her bloodline to come calling.

When her world collapses, Aurelia is dragged into Nyxarra, a mist-shrouded city ruled by blood bargains, ancient grudges, and magic long thought buried. What begins as a desperate attempt to save her brother quickly unravels into something far more dangerous.

With a haunted warrior at her side and a beautiful monster at her throat, Aurelia must face the stories etched into her blood-and the cost of daring to rewrite them.

Power is a curse. Love is a risk. And survival may cost her everything she has left.

"The thorns we inherit do not ask permission. They prick, they scar, they remind us that beauty was never meant to be harmless. And neither were we."

"...a beautiful, lush, gothic fantasy romance - a weaving tale that doesn't just tell a story, it creates a full sensory experience, and then leaves its mark on you. It reminds you that the scars you carry do not break you, they shape you & they make you powerful." - Janessa, Goodreads review

"This isn't a story you devour-it's a story you marinate in. Lindsey's writing is deeply lyrical and richly descriptive, the kind that sinks its teeth into you and refuses to let go until the final page. And even then, it leaves a mark." - Cayla Pitts, Goodreads review