sorina_boeriu 's review for:

Never the Roses by Jennifer K. Lambert
4.0

ARC and ALC review  
Publication date 08 Jul 25

“Never the Roses” by Jennifer K. Lambert is a romantic fantasy.

Thank you Pan Macmillan and Macmillan Audio for the ARC and ALC (via Netgalley).  
Opinions from this review are completely my own. 

The cover and description of the book convinced me to read it.
Oneira is a retired sorceress that is tired of fighting in the war. 
But she gets bored and decided to make trip to the library of her most powerful rival, sorcerer Stearanos.

The story's pace is slow, but it did not bother me. There is a rivals to lovers romance that starts through notes.
I liked both characters and their story. Especially Oneira, had a good development.
Her magic was also interesting and the overall plot. This is a well written book.

It was a good experience reading the e-book while listening to the audio.
When possible, this is my preferred way of enjoying a book. 
It is a nice feeling and helps me immerse in the story, especially if it is a fantasy.  

The audiobook is narrated in dual style by Chloe Campbell and Shane East.
I did not listen to any other books narrated by Chloe Campbell, but I think that she was perfect as Oneira. 
She managed to keep me captivated in the story and brought the characters to life.
I think Shane East's voice was great as Stearanos and I am glad that he narrates more fantasy books.

Overall this was a nice, emotional and magic book.