Genres: Dark Fantasy, Romantic Fantasy, Fantasy | Release Date: 24 June 2025 | Series: The Wytchling Chronicles | Series Book: #1 | Pages: 464 | Publisher: New Dawn | Review
“I’m not afraid of you, little firebug.”
C. C. Davie
Overview:
A huge thank you goes to C. C. Davie and New Dawn Publishing, for letting me read an ARC of Heliacle Rising! This dark romantic fantasy was originally independently published, but as of today? Every instalment of The Wytchling Chronicles has been re-released thanks to New Dawn! Now before I get carried away with all the emotions, let’s give you an overview…
When Amylia and Rayvn’s parents are slaughtered, it’s only thanks to the kindness of Lord Drakon that the young orphans are given a chance at a new life. Taken away from everything they ever knew, they must learn to adapt to their new home in Lylican before they can hope to regain their heritage. But after eleven years, Amylia still struggles to accept the role she must play, even though she’s now betrothed to Lord Drakon’s son. And as the threat of war from Attica begins to darken the skies, it’s clear that nothing is as it seems. A long-held secret is about to come to light, forever changing the path laid before Amylia’s feet. Can Amylia embrace everything she’s meant to be? Will the Wytchlings of Asteryn grant Amylia and Rayvn a safe haven amidst the storm? Who can the siblings trust, when treachery lies all around them?
Happiness Boost:
Heliacle Rising is a dark romantasy which will squeeze your heart from the very first page, refusing to unclench its grasp even when you get to the end. I love the way that the characters within this fantasy are a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences, with no two alike. And the found family in this? Please let me be adopted by this group! If they can adopt all sorts of beasties and people, surely I can make the cut?
Even though this is a dark sapphic fantasy, and it *does* deal with some heavy themes, there’s a whole lot of humour within the pages, too. I couldn’t stop myself from laughing every time Rogue shares his thoughts on the Sylkies. Add to that the beautiful romance which blossoms between certain characters? Heliacle Rising has conquered my heart. Let me just wave a little white flag now, I’m happy to surrender.
If you enjoy stories that are all about facing evil, conquering fears, and embracing new loves? This romantasy is for you! I’m aching to share so much more about this story, but as I took way too many notes that could potentially be spoilers, I’m restraining myself. And I really hope you’re giving me credit for that, because it is *so* hard to do! Just… Buy this book. Buy this series. I’m telling you, you’ll thank me later.
Downside:
No downside whatsoever for me!
Final Thoughts:
Heliacle Rising by C. C. Davie is a dark sapphic romantasy full of second chances, dark secrets and enduring love. I cannot stress enough how much you need to read this if you’re a fan of any of those things. Will I be diving straight into book two? Obviously! I need to know what comes next, because this story has delivered above and beyond my already high expectations. Love what you’ve heard from my review? Just click on the link below to order yourself a copy! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can order a copy of Heliacle Rising via this link: Amazon
