I cannot get over the cliffhanger in this book!! I was completely shocked! I didn’t see it coming at all.
I absolutely loved this story from beginning to end. The pacing, the plot, the twists and turns, it was all so well thought out and brilliantly crafted. I was especially drawn to the FMC and the unique dynamics she had with each character. ( especially her relationships with two of the main mmcs lol ) I’m dying for book two, I can’t even begin to imagine what’s coming next!

I first read Metal Slinger on Kindle Unlimited, and I’m ecstatic to see it getting traditionally published. I would highly recommend this wild ride!! I ate it RIGHT TF UP!!!

Fr there was a scene that reminded me of the Traitor Queen, one with HUGE Draco Malfoy vibes from The Auction, and also somehow one VERY SPECIFIC gasper from Game of Thrones 🩸 but I was CLUTCHING my kindle through all of it so IT WORKED ON MY DUMB ASS BRAIN.

Reasons you should pick this up:

🎈 it’s genuinely a fun time
⏰ it’s relatively short for a romantasy
🍴 it’s super digestible
💥 I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN
2️⃣ it’s a duology

Idk what else to say without giving anything away really lmaooooo if you like fantasy I think you should read this 🫶🏻

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Rachel Schneider, and St. Martin's Press for an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I originally read Metal Slinger on Kindle Unlimited and instantly fell in love. I’ve since been trying so hard to get my book club to read it! I’m so excited that it’s getting traditionally published now—it 1000% deserves it and more readers NEED to experience this story!!

My jaw is on the floor. I’m going to need 7-10 business days to process what I just read. The blurb doesn’t even scratch the surface of how insane and incredible this book is. It’s fast-paced (in the BEST way) and had me physically restraining myself from devouring it too fast. Every time I put it down, I immediately wanted to pick it back up.

The characters? ICONIC. The worldbuilding? Mind-blowing. The enemies to lovers, the magic system, the twists and turns?? I was kicking my feet and screaming half the time. I seriously could not get enough. Brynn (our FMC) is a badass and has my whole heart, I’m so emotionally attached it’s not even funny.

Also, that ending??? HELLO??? The cliffhanger is cliffhangering HARD and I am not okay.

If you love:
• Romantasy with adventure
• Enemies to lovers
• Forbidden love
• Strong female leads
• Hidden identities/secrets
• Magic and twists you will not see coming

…then YOU NEED TO READ THIS!! I already need to re-read it and will absolutely be buying the traditionally published version the second it’s out.

One of my favorite reads EVER. A MUST READ!!!

Six stars. Yes, six—because five just isn’t enough.

There is literally nothing about Metal Slinger that I didn’t love. From the first page to the last jaw-dropping twist, this book had me hooked. The characters are dynamic, multi-dimensional, and woven seamlessly into the story. Even the side characters have purpose—no placeholders, no fluff—just beautifully crafted people who elevate the plot at every turn.

The FMC? One of the best I’ve ever read. She’s smart, capable, and never once falls into the trap of making obviously terrible choices just to keep the story going. It was so refreshing to see a heroine who stands strong on her own.

And the MMC… holy cow. He doesn’t wield shadows (bless), he’s got brown eyes, a nose ring, and somehow manages to be the perfect balance of rough and soft, dominating and gentle, cruel and kind. He lets the FMC breathe—gives her space to grow, to decide, to become. And honestly? That’s sexier than any shadow-wielding ever could be.

Now let’s talk about the ending. I’d heard whispers that it was wild—and it still wrecked me. I’m usually good at predicting twists, but this one had me audibly saying, “What?!” It was that good.

Rachel is a literary mastermind. Metal Slinger is easily one of my favorite reads of all time. If you haven’t read it yet—stop everything and pick it up. You won’t regret it

The beginning of the book and the ending feel like two completely different worlds, and I love that. Maybe it’s because I’ve been reading a lot of Romantasy, but the typical story line of powerless girl, no powers, no parents, being awakened, mate saving her, etc is a little too common.
Still loved the story. The twist made my heart drop and now I fully know what everyone was talking about 😭😭😭😭 I might actually feel winded..

Rating / Recommend: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐🌶️🌶️🌶️ YES!!!!

My Thoughts:
Is it possible to be in love with a book 👀 I’m about this close 🤏. This has to be in my Top 5 of the year if not #1!
Listen I was in love with Acker, but I think Brynn takes the cake. 😍 She’s devious in a way I haven’t seen since Aelin. Always two steps ahead!

If you like TOG / Shadow and Bone vibes, you’ll love this. + extra spice 🔥

If you read this PREPARE YOURSELF… The ending isn’t for the faint of heart. I mean this in the best way.. it’ll wreck you.

Content Warning: Adult language, open door scenes, murder, and more.

Is this a 4 or 5 ⭐️ read?
I'm not sure. It's definitely in between.
This was really good. I'm excited to see where the next one goes. All that being said, I FEEL for Acker. Brynn or Jo, whatever you want to call her is a manipulative piece of work, and I'm truly not a fan.

The magic hooked me, and Acker. He has his flaws, but none compare to that of our FMC, and she definitely should get what is coming to her.

4.5 ⭐️
The ending? Excuse me??? I didn’t see that one coming.
I really enjoyed this book! For being almost 500 pages, it didn’t feel long. The characters were all interesting and the world/magic system was set up well. I’m ready for book two!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this ARC!
2⭐️
While this book offers a unique and imaginative setting—an ocean-based society living among the trees—it unfortunately struggles to fully deliver on its promise. The world-building feels underdeveloped, with minimal explanation of its fascinating premise. Key moments are often told rather than shown, making it difficult for readers to truly connect with the story or its stakes.

Character development is another weak point. The FMC lacks strong internal growth or clear motivation, and her skill set feels inconsistent. The MMC is only slightly more compelling, but the chemistry between the two leads is unconvincing, and some of their romantic interactions may feel uncomfortable for readers. Interestingly, the side characters are far better developed and more engaging.

One of the biggest challenges is the major twist at the end. While bold, it feels poorly foreshadowed and ultimately undermines much of the story’s earlier work. A dual-POV structure or earlier breadcrumbing could have made it more satisfying. Unfortunately, the twist feels abrupt and forces readers to reinterpret the entire narrative without enough groundwork to support it.

I was really hoping that the traditional publishing process would have added some additional finesse and polish to this book—but the core issues I had with the original indie release remain unchanged.

Overall, despite an incredibly creative concept, the book struggles with pacing, character depth, and narrative cohesion. It may still appeal to readers who prioritize unique worlds over tightly structured storytelling, but it falls short of its potential.

Hold onto your hats, fantasy lovers, because Metal Slinger is an absolute triumph! Adrienne Young has once again delivered a breathtakingly immersive world, brimming with political tension, forbidden encounters, and the tantalizing promise of magic. From the moment Brynn sets foot in the Kenta market – a place steeped in a century of uneasy peace – you know you're in for a wild ride.
Brynn is a protagonist who leaps off the page with fierce determination and a vulnerability that makes her instantly relatable. Her longing for connection to a people who exiled her own is palpable, and the unexpected collision with an enemy soldier throws her carefully constructed world into thrilling chaos. This isn't just a chance encounter; it's a spark that ignites a powder keg of emotions and potential conflict.
The return to Alaha and the looming threat of hunger adds a layer of gritty realism to the story. Young paints a vivid picture of a people struggling to survive, making Brynn's internal conflict and her loyalty to her friends feel deeply significant. The promise they make to stick together resonates with a powerful sense of camaraderie that you can't help but root for.
And then… the unexpected visitor. This is where Young truly shines, introducing elements of magic and treachery that elevate the story to another level. The stranger with the "dark, knowing eyes" is the epitome of intriguing, instantly making you question everything Brynn believes to be true. The slow burn of attraction and the internal battle Brynn faces as she grapples with her preconceived notions are masterfully written. The question of "once her enemy, always her enemy?" hangs heavy in the air, thick with delicious anticipation.
Metal Slinger is a masterclass in building tension and crafting compelling characters. The political landscape is ripe with conflict, the hints of magic are tantalizing, and the burgeoning romance is utterly captivating. Adrienne Young has seamlessly blended these elements into a story that is both action-packed and emotionally resonant. I devoured every single page and was left desperately yearning for more. Five stars don't even begin to cover how much I loved this book! Prepare to be completely and utterly spellbound. This is going straight onto my "must-read" list for everyone!

Uhm, what the actual fuck? Concept, cool I guess? Plot holes were waaaaaaaay too pervasive for anything higher than 2 stars. It felt way too choppy and rushed at the end, also felt like insta love? Not quite sure that the plot twist made literally any sense other than to be a wow factor for the end. Almost too many questions for me to want to continue reading the series:

Jovie/B is almost too unreliable for me because, what?
How could she have possibly coordinated that awakening with Acker and connect it to her plans with Kai?
Sooooo she and Kai aren’t together? But are? This feels so weird and gross with everything we now know about Acker.
How HOW literally HOW is Beau involved in the rebellion plan? The lack of hint and backstory there is wild.
While I thought Messers character was cool, he disappears for 30 chapters and comes back in a weeeeeiiird fucking way. Like what were you doing my dude?
Why doesn’t she go straight back to Maile? I mean objectively I know why, they tell us but it doesn’t seem believable. Like if that was me, get me tf home now.
There was little to no development of her power on page so I’m really struggling to see how she speaks so nonchalantly about it with Kai in the flashback. Like girl do you even know who you are? Like CLEARLY you do so what? Were you actually kidnapped? If so girl lmfao what?! When did you realize this? Obv before you left Alaha soooo???

I just don’t get a lot about this book. Keeping it at 2 because the concept was generally cool and the plot was okay.

Thanks to NetGalley/SMP for the ARC!

I devoured this one so quick!

Brynn finally gets her chance to attend the Kenta’s market, but what starts as a dream quickly spirals into something dangerous. Back home, she faces rebellion, hunger, and a visitor who might change everything she thought she knew.

This story moves fast in the best way!! I tore through the pages thanks to the amazing world building.

The romance was everything!

The ending completely wrecked me. I’m still not over it. I seriously can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

If you’re into stories with magic and rebellion, this one delivers.

Thank you NetGalley and St Martin Press for the eARC.

ᵗⁱᵗˡᵉ: 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫
ᵃᵘᵗʰᵒʳ: 𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐞𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥: 𝟓☆

Finished Metal Slinger yesterday and even though it wasn’t top tier I was hooked from the very beginning and already wanted to do a reread. It felt like kismet between the main characters from the very beginning and that’s when i knew… this book is destiny! (In my Debbie Ryan voice 😂)

The characters were all interesting and entertaining from the very beginning which made it easy for me to finish the book quicker. From the very beginning, the book starts off action packed with a bit of romance which already makes you want to continue reading.

Thank you to NetGalley & Saturday Books for the eARC!

𝐈𝐟 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐋𝐢𝐤𝐞 ♡︎
Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Plot Twists
Political Twists

“She has beautiful eyes. They’re brown and green and amber, like every color of every season. I’ve looked everywhere for eyes like hers, and nothing has ever been able to compare.” 💙

I don’t even know where to begin with this review. No ending to a book has ever shocked me more than the ending of Metal Slinger. It’s been a couple of days since I finished reading it and I’m still reeling. I had to reread the last few chapters again to make sure I was actually comprehending what was happening. I still can’t believe it.

Aside from the ending, I enjoyed the scenes that took place at sea because I love the ocean. It was refreshing to read a story that has a good chunk of it take place at sea because majority of the books I have read have not taken place on a boat.

Not only did I love the two main characters, but I also loved a lot of the supporting characters in this one. Messer is definitely my favorite supporting character, and I hope we get to see more of him in the next book, which by the way I need ASAP!!!!!!

If you love enemies to lovers, fated mates, only one bed, forced proximity, and he falls first, then I highly recommend you read this one. And be prepared to be shocked!

Thank you so much to St. Martin’s Press/Saturday Books for an advanced copy! Metal Slinger releases on June 17 in paperback and February 3, 2026 in hardcover, but it is available to read right now in ebook format! ♥️

I haven’t felt this consumed by a book in a long time. When I wasn’t reading Metal Slinger, I was thinking of it. When I wasn’t thinking of it, I was DREAMING of it.

The pacing was phenomenal and the world building gave you just enough information, without it feeling info-dumpy.

I feel deeply, head over heels, in love with a certain Metal Slinger. 💖

Now, you’re probably wondering why after being so obsessed with this book I’m only giving it 4 stars.

It came down to the plot twist. Don’t get me wrong, I loooooove a good plot twist. Without giving too much away, this one left me feeling unsettled. I might feel differently after a re-read, but right now it just felt like it was thrown in to keep you guessing.

Super excited to read Rachel’s next installment in this series. ❤️‍🔥

This book reminded me of why I love the Romantasy genre so much. Who needs sleep when you're being whisked off into such a captivating story-- I devoured this book in a day and that ending has stuck with me since then!

✨Enemies to Lovers
🪄Elemental Magic
❤️‍🔥Slow Burn
💕Fated Mates (Matches)
😍Tension & Witty Banter

This is a new to me author and personally I really enjoyed her writing style, can't wait for book two in this series and I'll definitely be checking out all future releases!

Thank you Rachel Schneider, Net Galley and St. Martin's Press| Saturday Books for providing me with an ARC of this book! All opinions in this review are my own.

⭐️⭐️ | Not for me—but you might feel differently 😬

Okay, I’ll be honest—I really wanted to like Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider. The premise? So cool. Metal-manipulation magic, a gritty fantasy world, and the promise of high-stakes action? I was ready. But unfortunately, the execution didn’t quite live up to the potential for me.

Between the odd pacing (why were we at sea for SO long?), the lack of foreshadowing, and characters that didn’t really tug at my heartstrings, this one just didn’t hit. And I still don’t know what was up with the phrase “Dang Rabbits”… it pulled me out of the world every time.

I get into:
💥 The plot points that confused me
🐇 The infamous “Dang Rabbits”
🚫 Why the romance didn’t work (for me)
🌊 And yes—the long, long sea voyage

That twist though!! This was a unique romantasy. I loved the characters, plot, and atmosphere. That twist really put it over the top for me though. I can’t wait for book 2!

I see why this one became such a hit!

While the beginning started off pretty slow, once it got moving, I really enjoyed this read. I sometimes find traveling journeys tedious and repetitive, but this one moved along nicely. I would definitely recommend the read for fans of the genre!

Thank you to the publisher for the gifted ARC

The way this book consumed me! Was giving me a little bit of Water World vibes in the beginning (forgive me it’s been over 20 years since I’ve seen the movie, but it was kind of my first thought)

And I really loved it! I was reading on my lunch breaks, and one handed while making dinner. It was just so intriguing, and so fast paced that it kept my interest the entire time! And I cant wait for the next book!

Brynn has lived her life believing she is Brynn from Alaha, she has eaten, slept, trained and fought as an Alaha. Until, a visit to the market where she meets a mysterious strange enemy man. (Uh hello sign me up)

I was thrilled how strong and powerful this FMC was, she was brave, strong and kind. And the MMC, I am swooning. He was mysterious, dangerous and the mouth on him?! Eating it up!

When this enemy shows up at her land, he threatens to unravel everything she has believed in. And when they leave Alaha, she begins to question everything she
knows about where she comes from and who she is.

Thank you St. Martin’s and NetGalley for this ARC