What Fury Brings by Tricia Levenseller delivers her signature mix of romance and fantasy with a dark, flirty twist. As a longtime fan, I found it enjoyable but not as gripping as her other works—something about it didn’t fully click for me. Still, it’s a fun, steamy read that others will likely connect with more, especially fans of morally gray love interests and magical bargains.

What Fury Brings is such an intriguing element of the story. It flips everything we’re used to, and I love how it challenges the usual power dynamics we see in fantasy. I loved how it’s not just about political power; it’s also about navigating relationships in a society where gender roles are completely flipped. Olerra’s journey to claim her place as queen while dealing with her growing feelings for Sanos is everything I want in a romance; fierce, emotional, and full of growth. And watching Sanos’s struggle to adapt to this world he’s forced into was just as compelling. He’s used to being in control, but in Olerra’s world, he has to learn how to let go of that and become something more. The way the author weaves these themes of power, control, and vulnerability into the romance really took it to another level for me. It’s so refreshing to see a romance where the power dynamic is turned on its head, and it makes the stakes feel even higher. I loved it.

I think there's a really good idea in here, but it either went too far or not far enough. We are told that the matriarchy does not subjugate gay men, but we never see how that works or meet any on page. We are told the world needs to change, but Olerra is close to an aunt who lets her cousin abuse minors in the open. So we are to believe that they respect gender identity and sexual orientation but simply not about child trafficking. All of the men except Sanos who we talk to are happy with their place in this world, the understanding being that it's "better." Levenseller knows and states that a simple reversal of the patriarchy is bad, but she doesn't seem to overcome or even wrestle with the dehumanization that allows societies like this to thrive. It even occurs on the other side. In Sanos's patriarchal culture, we only hear of women as people to be protected. At no point is there a suggestion that there's more to his mother and sister. They exist solely to be protected.

Possibly with a few more rounds of editing and development this could have turned into something with more nuance. As it was, it felt too blunt and any chance I had of enjoying the romance was ruined by the world. It felt too glib, especially for a romance that starts with a kidnapping and includes a fair amount of physical assault.

If Tricia Levenseller writes it.... imma read it! I feel like I have been waiting forever for this book! It was 1000% worth the wait! I loved how we flipped kidnapping a bride to kidnapping a husband! With everything on the line and trying to prove her worth Olerra is hilarious. With a little bit of mistaken identity and enemies to well maybe no so enemies. This book is amazing. Starts of at a medium pace and picks up fast.

What Fury Brings is unlike anything I’ve ever read, while still delivering the romance and fantasy vibes I was hoping for. In a world where a matriarchal society reigns, Levenseller took everything you’ve ever read, any trope you love, and turned it on its head. You might question whether you’ve actually been a true feminist as the story showcases just how deep patriarchal ideals are ingrained in our psyche and even into what we as women read, enjoy, and excuse.
Mind blowing and powerful.

I have previously read Tricia Levenseller's young adult books and was so excited to read her new adult romantasy series. Let me tell you, this book definitely delivered and so much more! I absolutely loved the world-building and how the author was able to weave the magical and complex political systems into one. Not to mention the main characters who felt both unlike any I have encountered before, yet somewhat similar to a certain degree that I could relate with. The tension and high stakes kept me flipping the pages nonstop! I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish and breezed through this book with little to no difficulty. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves romantasy or is simply looking to dip their toes into the genre.

This was absolutely one of the best books I've read this year! I could not out it down. It was thrilling from the first page. And what a concept a world where men are subservient to women?! Diabolical in a good way! I would absolutely read more and am already recommending it to people. I can't wait until the next book is out! There were a few rupos here and there but that's expected of an arc. But absolutely amazing book. I can't wait to read more! There was a good slice level to it just enough to leave you wanting more. Highly recommend!!!! Ten stars!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if women were in charge and men were the weaker sex? What if women were stronger and braver? What if men had to be treated the way many women have been treated? If you’re curious about these questions, grab this book and find out for yourself.

Imagine a world where women make their own choices and don’t have to follow anyone’s rules. No more being told how a woman or wife should act. If you can’t handle the thought of a woman being in charge and men being the submissive, then this book might not be for you. But I bet your wife would love it!

Review posted on TikTok,Neptune- not available to the public yet still in beta and to Goodreads.
Will be adding to instagram krystal_harris_knesek

This book is so angry I LOVE IT.

But nothing else stood out. I've read a lot of romantasy with the same plot. So there really was nothing too shocking and/or memorable about this. But again, the female rage I absolutely loved.

Please, please, please read the trigger warnings before diving into this book.

If you're looking for a book to channel all of that feminine rage then allow me to recommend Tricia Levenseller’s adult debut, #whatfurybrings!!!

This book is feminist, fun, fiercely romantic, and it's all written with Tricia's signature dagger-sharp wit and page-turning pacing. This one is destined to be THE Romantasy book of the year. Out 09/23!!!

Ok reversing gender roles, I see you. I went into this with pretty high hopes and was not let down much. It was pretty good.

Oooooh I really enjoyed this! The gender reversal of power was a really interesting change to read. The main characters felt very different from the typical romantasy characters and it was enjoyable. Definitely felt the women’s rage, but it felt very accurate and not overly performative which I appreciated. I’ve always enjoyed Tricia Levensellers writing and this was no different.

This is a story that has an answer to the question "Who runs the world?

I enjoyed this so much- every trope subverting, female rage laced page. I cackled at the parts that felt like they were born from years of eye rolling frustration at female objectification, and I immediately texted my friends that they need to add this to their tbrs. It's incredibly easy to cheer for Olerra & want her to win. This book is pure fun!

Thank you so much FEIWEL & @tricialevenseller for the eArc, I had an excellent time.

I hate to have to write this review but I have to be honest. This book wasn’t for me. I was disturbed by a lot of the content and I dnfd at 25%. I’m not sure when it became acceptable to write about pedophilia, sex trafficking, sexual assault, rape, kidnapping, etc. I think this book could have been really good without these topics. I get the feminine rage pov and what the author was trying to do and I was excited for it but we need to draw the line at children being sold and trained to be sexual partners. We need to draw the line at sexual assault, forced nudity and humiliation, rape. I think the publisher shouldn’t have pushed this one through. This is coming from someone who has read and owns the authors previous books and was a big fan. Please read the content warnings in the authors note and take them seriously. If she was trying to be edgy and get a disgusted reaction and feeling from readers, it was achieved.

Thank you to Macmillan/ Feiwel Publishing for this early edition of What Fury Brings by Tricia Levenseller.
I have read several of Tricia’s YA backlog including Daughter of the Pirate King and The Darkness Within us. It’s obvious that Tricia’s strength lies in her strong female lead. In Fury, Olerra read a little over the top in size, mannerisms and strength. Sanos character was well developed and likable and he struggled with his feelings for Olerra. I personally dislike when miscommunication is the conflict with a story, but Sanos hidden identity was necessary for the revealing Glens deceptions.
So many novels start with the MMC kidnapping the FMC. There is almost an expectation in those stories that the male will have some mistreatment of the female as they grow to eventually fall in love. Fury really turns those misogynistic views upside down.
Interesting story of role reversals, great spice, and overall a fun read. Ydra was a stand out. Would love to read a story about her.

I’m a big Tricia Levenseller fan so I was stoked to dive into her adult romantasy debut! Though it wasn’t my favorite of hers, I still had a pretty good time. 3.5 stars!

I thought the beginning of this was great, super fun. The worldbuilding was unique and I liked how patriarchal customs were turned on their head throughout the book. I started to lose a little interest after the halfway point, though. Olerra and Sanos didn’t have quite the chemistry or tension I was hoping for, and Sanos’ animosity seemed to last for quite some time. When he finally did start to act on his feelings, they seemed rushed and like they came on fast out of nowhere.

I did enjoy Olerra’s political maneuvering at the end, and was surprised by the reveal that happened regarding her parents. It seemed a bit rushed (the whole ending did, really) but I did like where she ended up. I can see that Levenseller left a pathway open to a sequel; can’t say I’d be eagerly awaiting it but wouldn’t rule try it out eventually!

This book was so refreshing.

It completely flips the patriarchy on its head and presents a world where woman are goddess-blessed with the strength to overpower ANY man. Women are the leaders, skilled-craftswomen, the educated, the ones with all the power, the protectors of men. Men are valued for their looks, their ability to sire children, they spend their time raising children or busying themselves with hobbies meant to entertain the women.

I want to dive into this book, I want the strength to overpower any man, I want to feel confident and safe — this book felt like girl-power in novel form and I loved everything about it.

It is unapologetically feminist - but not afraid to highlight a flawed system.

This is a true romantasy, with a perfect blend of romantic and non-romantic plot!

I stayed up till 2am devouring this book, I didn’t want to stop reading!

There is so much to love about this book…
- political intrigue
- easy to follow world-building
- villains you’ll love to hate
- a heroine worth rooting for
- CURVY THICK AND TALL FMC
- a kidnapped prince
- epic tension + chemistry
- delicious spice
- did I mention it’s empowering as f-?
- binge-able
- a satisfying STANDALONE

What’s not to love…
- This wasn’t perfect, there were areas where I didn’t love the prose, but this was such a unique and empowering story, with so MUCH to love about it, that something small like prose is inconsequential in comparison.

🌶️- This is definitely an adult book! There are adult themes and s-x mentioned throughout the book. Spicy chapters are: 7, 17, 21, 28.
*** The author also has a very detailed content warning and note at the beginning of the book.

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan/FIEWEL for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

I think it’s safe to say that I’ve never read a book quite like this one. A kingdom ruled entirely by women? A world where women are gifted with the ability to physically overpower men so they won’t ever have to suffer by the hand of a man again. The entire premise of the book in itself was very unique and well done. I had a good time reading it. The story was immersive and had my attention the whole time. However, I wish the romance was more developed.

I do very much feel that this book will grab everyone’s attention and I recommend picking it up.

Alexa, play Who Runs the World by Beyonce.

What Fury Brings is a romantasy novel set in the kingdom of Amarra, a world where woman are blessed with superior strength and total control. Olerra, our FMC, is the general and poised to take the throne--if she can stave off her power-hungry cousin. The best way to do that? Why, kidnap a prince from your rival kingdom, of course.

I devoured this book. Like, unhealthily fast. Olerra was a wonderful main character. I thought she managed to be a warrior character without falling into the 'stabby, sassy female character' trope that often plague this genre. Her bluntness was so entertaining, and I thought her and Sanos played really well of each other.

Overall, I found it to be a highly enjoyable read. If you were ever obsessed with the Amazons from Greek mythology, I think you would love this book. It was a fresh twist on the romantasy genre, and I wouldn't mind a second book featuring Ydra. And if all that didn't sell you, there's also a penis guillotine.

Absolute Perfection!

Olerra is the General of the Armies of Amarra, a matriarchal society. She is in contention to be the next queen, but in order to win the throne, she must outmatch her cousin. She decides that the way to best her cousin is to steal a prince from the kingdom of Brutus, a patriarchal society. Unfortunately, she steals the wrong prince. One who will bring her country to war.

Tricia Levenseller’s debut adult fantasy novel absolutely knocked it out of the park! She flipped the script of the patriarchy on its head masterfully. The world building and the details in the story were done so well. Watching it through the eyes of a man who is used to living in a patriarchal society was perfection. The characters, their growth, and their understanding of one another unfolded perfectly. This book is one of my top reads of the years so far!