By the end of this book I was absolutely HOOKED and I will be waiting (not so patiently) for the next book in this trilogy.

Briony is a prisoner of war, striped of her magic and bought at auction by none other than her former classmate and object of her schoolgirl crush, Toven. As expecting this is a dark fantasy, enemies to lovers romance with the sloooowest slow burn. The tension, pining, BANTER - amazing! The flashbacks (which I'm not normally a fan of) actually work really well in this story to help build on their relationship.

The pacing felt a little slow in the middle and the world building was a little lack luster. This wasn't too much an issue for me since I am familiar with the original source work this was inspired by. But I do hope that we get some more in the next book! Especially after that epilogue 👀

Audio narration: 4.5/5 Loved the narrator and thought she was a fantastic pick for Briony. Not as big of a fan of some of the male voices but those were minor characters and didn't distract from the story too much.

Overall, highly recommend to anyone who is looking for a dark fantasy with slow burn, high political stakes, forced proximity, and top tier banter! (Please, please check the trigger warnings first)

Thanks to Julie, Hachette Audio and NetGalley for gifting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This is the best fantasy/romance/romantasy book I have read ever. I have never been so sucked into a book - making time stand still, but also pass so quickly. Reading Rose in Chains has put me into a reading slump like no other because of how fantastic it is. It reminded me of the fanfic I read at 13 where I would manipulate the AO3 filters in order to produce the most angsty piece of literature you could imagine. This is apt considering Rose in Chains started out as a fanfic.

I haven't stopped recommending Rose in Chains - which is a problem considering it doesn't come out for another four months. It is also a problem for me because I just want everyone I know to read it immediately.

Whenever I talk about this book, I quickly follow up with the fact that it has heavy themes of sexual assault and (sexual) slavery. This immediately throws people off, but I haven't quite worked out how to make that disclaimer, but also convey how special the book and relationships explored are. Like of course Briony and Toven have a special relationship that was so amazing to watch develop, but there are also the relationships between Briony and all the other women in the book, Toven and his allied, Briony and Toven's mother. The relationships in this book are so complex and worthy of praise and admiration.

I originally thought I would be reading Rose in Chains for the romance, but I actually became more fascinated with the plot. It was so strong and moved the book along so well. Don't get me wrong though, Briony and Toven's chemistry was INSANE. Literally had me gnawing at the bars of my encolsure... like... oh my god. But since this is book one in a trilogy, we don't really fully get into the romance (I'm also curious if there will really BE a romance).

I cannot believe how good this was. How much I loved it. I'm blessed to live in the same time as Julie Soto and her brain.

I did listen to the audiobook my second time reading Rose in Chains. The narrator was British, which took some getting used to at first, but overall made sense for the story. It was a great audiobook.

One of the things I appreciated most about this book is that the author doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the story. The world is brutal, and the horrors faced by the Eversuns—especially those sold at auction—are never minimized or romanticized. There are mentions of torture, sexual abuse, and death, and they’re handled with weight and care.


I really liked how the lore unfolded organically through dialogue and flashbacks, rather than overwhelming the reader with info-dumps. The contrast between mind magic and heart magic felt original and smartly executed.

The political tension between Evermore and Bomard drives much of the plot, and while the details of their conflict could have been more fleshed out, the power games and dynamics among the Bomardis were compelling. The balance between action, politics, and romance was handled well, making the story feel both layered and engaging.

If I had one complaint, it’s that some of the broader world motivations remain a bit murky. Why was there a war? What was the ultimate goal? Why is mind magic so despised by certain factions? I’m hoping these questions are explored further in the next installment.

This is a dark, emotional, and politically charged fantasy with a sharp magic system and a romance that feels earned. I’m invested in the world, intrigued by the characters, and already looking forward to what happens next.

Thank you to NetGalley & Hachette audio for this audiobook arc in exchange for an honest review!

Having already read an ARC of this book and been impressed by the story I did request the ALC as well, because I am nothing if not an audio book girly. I also find that I am more generous with my reviews on audio books. That being said, I feel like this is still just a 3.5 book. I did not love it, but I didn’t hate it. I can see why some people do love the story, and would recommend it to people I think would enjoy it.
Original review for the ARC:
It breaks my heart to only give Rose in Chains by Julie Soto 3.5 stars, I’ve read all of her work (fic and published) and this is the only non 5 star read for me. In the past I’ve heard the critique that fan fic writers are better at building stories in a world that was already created then at creating their own, unfortunately, I think that is this case here. I think that anyone who is familiar with her fic work that was the inspiration for this book will enjoy the book more, then someone new to the story. My biggest issues with this story are that the characters are all pretty one dimensional, the world was pretty mid.

There is no real depth or individuality to any of the characters, the story failed to make me care about them. Even in what should have been tense or emotionally charged scenes they all just fell short, and I know that Julie can write these powerful scenes. Because of that our MCs have no real charm or chemistry between them. There are flashbacks throughout the book-though I personally feel the ones at the beginning of the story are poorly placed and really ruin the pacing of the beginning of the book- that show the MMC & FMC and their time in school but aside from the FMC having a crush on the MMC there was no chemistry. She fan-girled over him in her head, and he became disengaged anytime she tried to get close to him. There were some spice in the book, but once again I did not find it engaging.

The magic system and world building are just mid. I didn’t hate the world or the magic system nor did I love it. There are 2 different kinds of magic, but some people can use both? The only part of the world building that I really disliked was the names. I strongly disliked all the names, the people the places all of it. I’m not completely sure why but the utter irritation I had at all the names in this book was borderline irrational.

My overall experience was a really good one. I found the world building to be atmospheric and darkly creative. I loved the magic of Hearst Manner. It was reminiscent to ACOSF but didn’t feel like a ripoff. The magic system was easy to follow and the adult Harry Potter vibe was a fun added touch. The plot kept me focused on the story the entire way through and the characters were interesting to follow. Usually I am a romance girly but surprisingly it was the political climate of the story that held my attention the most. I feel like this first book is focused more on setting up the series. I have a feeling the books are just going to get better and better from here on out.

Some things I didn’t love even though I’m still considering this a 5 star read…

*The time jumps. A couple in the beginning were fine to give us a better idea of Toven and Briony’s history but as the story went on they just became repetitive. They would recap entire scenes that we already read about previously in the story. Towards the end they just started to get annoying.

*The romance. I wouldn’t even consider this a romance. I have high hopes that it will develop into more of a romance in the next book but if you’re looking for a gripping romance, this book ain’t it. It’s like, ok, yes, we know he likes her because duhhh it’s shelved as romance but other than that, at no point does Toven act like he likes her. I was searching for measly crumbs to grasp onto the entire book and still ended up empty handed. I feel like I could guess that Toven did the things he did because he was trying to get reactions out of Briony or in other cases trying to protect her but there is never any evidence of it in the book. It’s all speculation on the reader’s part. I really hope we get more yearning from Toven in the rest of the series or this will be a flop for me. I don’t even need spice! Give me well written yearning and tension! In this book we get nothing, which is so odd because in no way is this a PG book. There is explicit language and sexual acts that take place from other characters in scenes but all we get from the FMC and MMC is a kiss at the 98% mark just for him to go ice cold YET AGAIN and say it was a mistake. I feel like the moments where she is on his lap were missed opportunities. The good girl has to play the bad girl roll on his lap and the two of them are in a constant state of edging each other while both wondering if the other is just playing the roll or if there are actually feelings involved. Instead we get a lame attempt at a kiss that makes the MMC flinch and shoo the FMC away.

The audio narrator wasn’t bad. Her voice was soothing and had a fairytale feel to it. My only complaint was when there were moments in the story you want the FMC to go absolutely ape shit on the MMC for one of his many dickish moments it would feel like the FMC would go way too easy on him. I couldn’t tell if that is the way the story was written or if that’s just how the narrator’s voice portrayed it. She came off too soft and forgiving. I wanted fire and brimstone, damnit!

Narrated by Ella Lynch, Rose in Chains is an absolute masterpiece.
Julie Soto is amazing.

This is a dark romance and triggers should be adhered to, if one has them. The book is told in a blend of current and past third person point of view with the narrator being the primary point of view. There is a first-person POV, but don't let it confuse you… In this world we have Briony, who was intended to be the princess, removed from her throne and thrown into servitude as a result of war. Not just Briony, but all women are to be auctioned and are no longer autonomous beings in positions of power. Briony is sold off to Toven. Toven is part of a family who is upholding this new society. The family is vile. But through his actions, you start to see sides of him that care for Briony. The world building is elaborate and immaculate.

This is extremely dark and if you have triggers, they need to be checked. This also ends on a cliffhanger.

This is an ARC review. I want to thank Julie Soto and Hachette Soto for allowing me the chance to listen to this book ahead of release day!

Briony lived through so many lives through her teenage years. To go from a royal to literally sold off to the highest bidder being her enemy in school, Toven. Toven is the morally gray character you learn to love as he does what he does for the greater means. His parents are also TOP NOTCH parents! Which is shocking as it seemed as though they were the enemy.

Briony overall was a very frustrating character! She was so stubborn, inquisitive and very naive. When I say this love story is a slow burn…it is the slowest of slow. There were moments where I just knew they would finally fall for each other but as I got to 98% through the book it FINALLY (sort of) HAPPENED! Goodness gracious it’s been what I’ve been waiting for this whole time. These two have done the whole push pull the whole story line and I AM READY FOR SOME ANSWERS! Which I guess will have to wait until the next in the series. As annoyed as I might have been it kept me invested in just about every character in the plot! It’s very well written and he audiobook truly was a great listen!

If you are a Dramione fan fiction, this is perfect for you!

I'm going to be honest, the only good thing about this audiobook was the narrator—who did a fantastic job, btw. Otherwise, Rose in Chains was thoroughly disappointing, and has further solidified that Soto's writing is not for me.

I really wanted to like this one because the description sounded so intriguing, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me.

It bounced between past and present, and on audio, that was tough to follow. There were so many characters, it got confusing, and I just didn’t connect with the main character. I love a strong female lead in fantasy, but Briony didn’t give me that. What happened to her was unfortunate, but I couldn’t help but laugh at how many times she tried to run away and just kept getting captured.

It’s classified as new adult, but it really read like young adult to me. And honestly… I’m just so tired of virgin heroines paired with spice. That combo is getting old fast and gives me the ick.

Enemies to lovers? Love it. But not when it includes the male punching the female lead in the face. That’s a no from me.

If you’re into YA and are just starting to dip your toes into spicy fantasy, this might be your vibe. But I’ve read a lot of fantasy/romantasy, and this author’s style just wasn’t for me.

I listened to the ALC, and while I didn’t love the book, the narrator did a fine job. She didn’t stand out, but she was solid—I’d give the narration 3 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Audio for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Thank you NetGalley for this amazing audio ARC! Briony and those close to her are capture after her brother is killed, not only captured but sold to use their magic. This book is dark and compelling, the women here are subjected to so many brutal acts. It was well written and I would love the next book because my mouth dropped. It had spice and I wanted to know more about what is going to happen to her and Toven. There is mentioned of sexual assault, torture and death. The world building was easy to understand without giving you a glossary of information. I will be rereading this book once it is published and recommending to EVERYONE! Julie Soto you are incredible!!! The audio narrator did an amazing job with all the voices, it kept me engaged and wanting to not to pause.

Ok let start with the audio, i love the narrator she did amazing, I think the only reason I finished the book is because of the audio.
Now the story had a lot of potential, it started really good and then the flash backs started. This is the first thing I didn’t enjoyed. They are not that important to be that long each of those chapters. Also the fact that the fmc makes herself dumb to please her father is so annoying. Now on the present I feel like some sections could have been handled better. Aside from that we don't get a lot of interaction between the main characters to keep me interested. The tension is palpable and then is gone. Overall I was bored most of the time. And the good parts are not enough to make this enjoyable.

I really liked Ella Lynch’s narration. She did a great job with the emotion in her voice to convey the emotion of the main character. This is the second audiobook read by her and I will continue to look out for her narration.

The story was a little confusing, I didn't understand the magic of this world at all. I think since I know this is published fan fiction I keep thinking about the world of the original story. I also think dark romances aren't for me. I don't understand how she likes that man. His family killed her family. Briony stand up girl, he's keeping secrets and information from you. Maybe I have anger issues but I couldn't fall for a guy like that. I liked the flash back story a lot better then the present day story. I kinda wish it was split into multiple books.

I will pick up the next book because I'm nosey. But hopefully it picks up the pacing of the book.

Thank you Netgalley for the ARC audio of Rose in Chains. I have loved every book of Julie Soto’s that i have read in the past so i was excited for this new journey of hers.
I was not sure what to expect but I have to say, I was very impressed. The world building could be cumbersome at times, but that may have been more due to listening to the audiobook, rather than reading the physical book. But I felt pulled right into their world, even if sometimes I was a little confused where they were.
But the characters!!! Briony is strong but also gentle and afraid. As a princess that was meant to mostly be in the shadows, she was a great leader when she needed to be and incredibly smart. But also entirely smitten by Tovin. Still trying to get a full read on his character. Cant wait to see how his story develops in the coming books. So many secrets! But dang so they have chemistry!!
Looking forward to the future books. Hoping they dont take too long to come out. I need to know what happens

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

Audio review: I loved the narration of this, I would highly recommend if you do decide to read it.

Review: I have mixed feelings about this. On one hand I was really worried about there being too many intimate scenes, I have no problem with that but I want more substance to my books, even my romantasy. However, that wasn't the case for this one. A lot of early reviews said there were too many sex scenes, now I did DNF at 55 percent but up until that point that wasn't the case. The reason I DNF'd this was because I just got bored. The beginning was very interesting, there's a unique world and it goes back and forth from the present to the past and I enjoyed the building up of the characters. However, once people are getting settled in, about half way through it just really lost the forward movement. There is magic but it felt really light, I guess maybe I wanted more fantasy? I think I actually enjoyed this book so much that I wanted more from it and when that didn't happen I felt let down in some ways. I am happy to say that if you want romantasy that at least half way through actually has a plot and not just sex, I would recommend. This may be a book I go back to at some point to finish but for now I am putting it down. I hope this helps you decide if you want to read it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 Stars — Rose in Chains by Julie Soto

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for the ALC!

I devoured this book in under a day—completely unputdownable.

Julie Soto delivers a captivating slow burn romance full of banter, tension, and characters you can’t help but root for. The forced proximity? Perfection. The worldbuilding? Immersive. The stakes? So, so high.

✨ Rival kingdoms
🐉 A dragon (yes!!)
🪄 Magic and mystery
👑 Political intrigue
❤️‍🔥 Delicious slow-burn tension

If you love romantasy with high stakes, magnetic chemistry, and a touch of danger, Rose in Chains needs to be on your radar. I can’t wait to hear Julie speak about it this summer!

The Rose in Chains audiobook is nothing short of phenomenal. Julie Soto’s gripping, emotionally charged story comes alive in an entirely new way through the narration — elevating every sharp inhale, quiet heartbreak, and simmering moment of tension.

The voice acting is pitch-perfect. The narrator (or narrators, if it’s dual POV) bring so much nuance to the performance — capturing the ache, the desire, and the raw vulnerability between the characters with just the right tone. You feel every pause, every unspoken word, every shift in the emotional undercurrent. It’s deeply immersive, and honestly, I don’t think the book would have hit me as hard in print.

The pacing is tight and cinematic, the sound quality is crisp, and the emotional resonance of Soto’s writing translates beautifully into audio. There were moments I had to stop what I was doing just to feel what I was hearing — it’s that powerful.

Whether you’re new to Julie Soto or a devoted fan, the audiobook of Rose in Chains is an unforgettable experience. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a story that burns slow, hits hard, and stays with you long after the last word.

Julie Soto is becoming a favorite author this year. Coming out with her YA debut The Thrashers to now Rose in chains Soto is on fire and can’t be stopped. Now Rose in Chain has been adaptive and change from its original form. It was previously a fan fiction, I have never read fan fiction of this world and can say that I have fallen for this world. The world building, the magic system, the details were all intricate and well written.
The back and forth between the time periods building it up going between what is happening now and giving us the backstory leading up to the current time period worked really well for me.
I can honestly say I was really excited and dreading this book at the same time. Everyone was really hyping this book up. Everyone is really excited for this book. I was afraid to be excited for it and to be let down. But I don’t think Julie Soto is ever going to let me down. Now all I want is more. I need the next book ASAP!!
The audio book…this was my second read through and I wish I had it on my first. I loved the first read through. I love the enthusiasm that Ella Lynch brings to the performance. The subtle voice changes were fantastic. Immersion reading is really big for me right now and this really hit the spot. I thought the production was fabulous and can’t wait to consume more by Ella!
Than you to Forever for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I'm going to start this review by stating that I've never read any Dramoine fanfic so this was all new to me. Overall, I would give this book 4 stars, I love a good slow burn and cannot wait to see what happens next since this book ended in a cliffhanger. I was hoping to give this book all the stars, but I felt like something was missing and had so many questions. I really hope the rest of the series will fill in the answers. I enjoyed the dual timeline and the flashes into Briony's past. I really enjoyed how the Hearst family was peeled back layer by layer through the book and how Julie Soto made me respect the whole family. I cannot wait until Veronika Mallow gets what's coming to her.

This read like a fanfiction terribly transformed into original work. The world building was nonsensical and characters flat. I also couldn't tell if this book was trying to be YA or Adult, though it read more YA. Even the narrator made this sound very young. I can't believe Julie Soto wrote this.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for this early copy of Rose In Chains for an honest review.

This is not my first time reading Julie Soto: traditionally published or fan fic writer. As a huge fan of her original fic, readers will be pleased to see that the story follows a similar thread. There were many Easter eggs throughout, which I believe was “the right thing to do” for her fan base.

I do believe this story stands on its though. The flashbacks woven into the story help to establish the complicated relationship between Briony and Toven. I anxious to see where Soto advances the story with the dragon.

Ella Lynch, the narrator, was wonderful. I listened at 1.5 speed and could understand everything. She seamlessly switches between character voices. Of note, I did find that Briony’s petulant voice when bantering with Toven sounded awfully similar to Larissa.

As one of my most anticipated reads of 2025, Rose in Chains did not disappoint.