A review by bookishk80
Never the Roses by Jennifer K. Lambert

3.25

Spice level: 🌶️/5

Oneira is a retired dread sorceress, now that she has bought her freedom and is living out her life in the middle of nowhere. She's hit a point of boredom (literally building herself a bier) and decides to visit the most extensive library in existence, that happens to be owned by her rival, Stearanos. Stearanos is a sorcerer still under the command of a king, the rival of Oneira's previous queen. Oneira recklessly steals a book from Stearanos, initiating a taunting correspondence that turns to flirtation. 

With excellent dual narration from the two narrators, this is a sweet and slow cozy fantasy. It left me wanting more for Oneira and Stearanos (please, tell me there is more!) Give this a read if you like: 

- forbidden love/starcrossed lovers

- rivals to lovers

- slow burn

- past trauma/dark past

- lands on the brink of war

Thank you to Macmillan Audio for an ALC on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This book will be published on 7/8/25.