For the Character First Fantasy Reader

Deep, flawed, morally gray characters are what make great stories. We review epic fantasy and sci-fi, and bridge the gap to the romantasy worth your time. Honest, male-perspective reviews with a no-BS spice level guide.

Wondering if a fan of Joe Abercrombie's morally gray heroes could enjoy Sarah J. Maas? You're in the right place. Our reviews bridge the gap by focusing on great characters first.

🌶️ Complete Rating Guide Browse Reviews

Epic Story Analysis

In-depth breakdowns of world-building, characters, plot, and pacing.

An Honest, Male Perspective

Straightforward reviews that bridge the gap between genres by focusing on what makes a story great.

The No-BS Rating Guide

Our unique system includes spice, darkness, and public reading comfort so you always know what you're getting into.

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It's All About the Story.

We're story first readers at our core. We believe a great book is defined by its compelling characters, high stakes plot, and immersive worlds, not by its genre label.

That's why we're comfortable comparing Pierce Brown to Rebecca Yarros, or helping a fan of Christopher Ruocchio decide if a Sarah J. Maas series is right for them. We bridge the gap by focusing on great storytelling, wherever it may be found.

Start Your Journey Here

We've handpicked these reviews to prove our story first promise. From 5 star epics that will feel right at home, to the gateway romantasy that's actually worth your time, this is the perfect place to begin.

4.50

Empire of the Dawn

by Jay Kristoff

"Grimdark royalty: Kristoff's magnum opus finale is brutal, hopeful, and utterly unforgettable"

The Strength of the Few

by James Islington

"The best book two ever written, three complete stories in one with jaw dropping twists, intense action, deep character work, and masterful plot weaving"

Fourth Wing

by Rebecca Yarros

"A thrilling blend of dragon fantasy and romance that delivers despite worldbuilding limitations"

Red Rising

by Pierce Brown

"A gripping dystopian adventure that transcends its Hunger Games comparisons through sophisticated world-building and moral complexity"

Shadows Upon Time

by Christopher Ruocchio

"Christoper Ruoccio's magnum opus, a genre defining conclusion that delivers on every promise, weaving plot lines across the series into a cohesive whole, leaving enough room for the possbility of more Sun Eater in the future. Never betraying what was foretold by the narrator Hadrian, while creating just enough room for debate and discussion for years to come"

Tusk Love

by Thea Guanzon

"A delightful cozy romantasy that proves tie-in fiction can achieve genuine heart and quality"

The Pawns of Havoc

by Dave Lawson

"Grimdark novella format perfected: brutal violence, witty banter, forced proximity romance, and zero wasted pages throughout."