Genres: Fantasy Romance, Romantic Fantasy, Epic Fantasy | Release Date: 16 June 2026 | Pages: 496 | Publisher: Ace Books | Review
“In Nocta, everyone whispers. Even the trees.”
Amy Pennza
Overview:
A massive thank you goes to Amy Pennza, Literary Media Tours, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an e-ARC of Dhampira! This romantic fantasy has been such a delight to read, because not only does it explore a deadly game of cat and mouse between vying powers, it also includes an intriguing why choose romance… So let’s give you an overview, shall we?
As a dhampir, Corinthe has always known she must keep her heritage a secret. Yet when Corinthe accidentally reveals her true self? The consequences are even more dire than she anticipated. Taken captive and about to be sold as an exotic kind of pet, it’s only thanks to Vander’s intervention that Corinthe escapes… But when they cross the Feyline? Vander soon reveals he serves the mad vampire king Rasimir, and her problems are only just beginning. Can Corinthe find an ally within the court, to save her from King Rasimir’s plans? Or is she destined to be a pawn without a voice, married to Prince Lorcan and exploited for her unique powers? It may be that only Lorcan and Vander can save her now, but will they also protect her heart?
Happiness Boost:
What I’ve adored about Dhampira is how Amy effortlessly leads the reader down a spiralling path, straight into the heart of chaos and secrets—King Rasimir is brutal, and Corinthe is caught in his trap. If she doesn’t find a way to mask her compassion? Rasimir will not hesitate to break her, in order to unlock her powers. I was completely hooked by the rising tension, and Corinthe’s desperation to break free. I could not look away!
While Dhampira features some incredibly grim moments that hurt my heart, I actually love it even more for that. I *want* to feel a kaleidoscope of emotions when I dive into a story! And this romantasy? Oh my goodness, glitterbugs. This tale highlights what happens when those in power go unchecked, and the horrors they can wreak upon their subjects. It is bleak, and it is phenomenal. But within Dhampira we also get some incredibly funny moments which had me chortling into my Kindle. This kind of balancing act between the light and dark isn’t an easy one, but here? Amy, please do take a bow. This story walked that tightrope with ease.
Within Dhampira, we’re gifted so much more than I can even begin to explain here. But if you want an intriguing magic system, a mesmerising MMF relationship, and magical artifacts which will throw your mind into a spin? This is the story for you. And do you want an FMC who must learn to trust her instincts, a sentient natural world, and an alluring mixture of broken hearts and tragic backstories? Because if you do, you will eat this up!
Downside:
I honestly don’t have a downside, this kept me hooked from the very first page!
Final Thoughts:
Dhampira by Amy Pennza is an enthralling romantasy, full of savage power plays, a unique magic system, and why choose romance. It is the perfect read to immerse yourself in when the world is noisy and you’re desperately needing an escape! I’m incredibly excited to see what comes next for these characters. Enjoyed what you’ve heard from my review? You can click on any of the links below to pre-order this wonderful romantasy! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can pre-order Dhampira via these links:
