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Fated Rebirth: A Dark Fantasy Romance
A gothic academia dark fantasy romance series of divine rebellion, reincarnation, and vengeance.
Violet Shaw remembers being killed.
Attending the prestigious Shademore University on an equestrian archery scholarship, Violet expects and welcomes challenges—but not violent memories of another life where she was abducted, enslaved, and murdered. When the visions sharpen into certainty, Violet must find the man who killed her and end him before he abducts another innocent.
There’s only one complication—her overly protective childhood friend, Rowan Monroe.
Once condemned to death for stealing a forbidden tome from the Forgotten Wasteland’s Library, Rowan should have been erased from existence. Instead, the Fates had other plans. Reborn into the modern world, Rowan remembers every sin of his past… and the monster who claimed him. Now bound to Violet as her unwilling guardian, he’s dragged back into a world he swore to abandon.
When a student’s murder throws Shademore University into lockdown, Rowan and Violet are forced into close quarters while searching for Violet’s killer. Their investigation uncovers magic, broken myths, ruthless monsters, forsaken gods, and secret societies as they battle their inner demons from previous lives and fall into a forbidden love.
A love, they soon realize, that could destroy them both.
She is his ruin.
He is her salvation.
Together, they bring a future the gods fear.
Fated Rebirth is a dark fantasy romance with past-life memories and fiercely feminist mythic undertones, blending gothic academia with contemporary romantic fantasy, high-stakes, gritty storytelling, slow-burn tension, found family, childhood frenemy-to-lovers heat,and neo-noir fantasy worldbuilding.
Perfect for fans of Ninth House, The Deathless One, Our Infinite Fates, Terror at the Gates, The Book of Azrael along with authors Scarlett St. Clair, Sheila Materson, Carissa Broadbent, Keri Lake, Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Mass, Sylvia Mercedes and all dark romantasy readers who crave morally grey characters, feminine rage, and vigilante justice for abusive men.
Violet Shaw remembers being killed.
Attending the prestigious Shademore University on an equestrian archery scholarship, Violet expects and welcomes challenges—but not violent memories of another life where she was abducted, enslaved, and murdered. When the visions sharpen into certainty, Violet must find the man who killed her and end him before he abducts another innocent.
There’s only one complication—her overly protective childhood friend, Rowan Monroe.
Once condemned to death for stealing a forbidden tome from the Forgotten Wasteland’s Library, Rowan should have been erased from existence. Instead, the Fates had other plans. Reborn into the modern world, Rowan remembers every sin of his past… and the monster who claimed him. Now bound to Violet as her unwilling guardian, he’s dragged back into a world he swore to abandon.
When a student’s murder throws Shademore University into lockdown, Rowan and Violet are forced into close quarters while searching for Violet’s killer. Their investigation uncovers magic, broken myths, ruthless monsters, forsaken gods, and secret societies as they battle their inner demons from previous lives and fall into a forbidden love.
A love, they soon realize, that could destroy them both.
She is his ruin.
He is her salvation.
Together, they bring a future the gods fear.
Fated Rebirth is a dark fantasy romance with past-life memories and fiercely feminist mythic undertones, blending gothic academia with contemporary romantic fantasy, high-stakes, gritty storytelling, slow-burn tension, found family, childhood frenemy-to-lovers heat,and neo-noir fantasy worldbuilding.
Perfect for fans of Ninth House, The Deathless One, Our Infinite Fates, Terror at the Gates, The Book of Azrael along with authors Scarlett St. Clair, Sheila Materson, Carissa Broadbent, Keri Lake, Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Mass, Sylvia Mercedes and all dark romantasy readers who crave morally grey characters, feminine rage, and vigilante justice for abusive men.
405 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2026
50 people are currently reading
6342 people want to read
About the author
Reno R. Mist
3 books111 followersReno writes high-heat contemporary, fantasy, and dark(ish) romances that explore kink, desire, and the complexities of love for characters thirty-five and older whenever possible.
A lifelong reader since childhood, she’s devoured everything from fantasy and thrillers to mystery and contemporary romance. Drawn to the unconventional, Reno crafts worlds where fantasy and passion collide — where gods, mortals, and monsters (both the spicy and unspicy kind) come alive on the page. She has a soft spot for full-body tattoos, tragic villains, and stories that blur the line between sin and salvation.
She lives with her menagerie of furbabies, her daughter, and her husband.
To stay up-to-date on exclusive content, head over to www.renormist.com and sign up for the newsletter!
A lifelong reader since childhood, she’s devoured everything from fantasy and thrillers to mystery and contemporary romance. Drawn to the unconventional, Reno crafts worlds where fantasy and passion collide — where gods, mortals, and monsters (both the spicy and unspicy kind) come alive on the page. She has a soft spot for full-body tattoos, tragic villains, and stories that blur the line between sin and salvation.
She lives with her menagerie of furbabies, her daughter, and her husband.
To stay up-to-date on exclusive content, head over to www.renormist.com and sign up for the newsletter!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
March 15, 2026
Thank you to Reno R. Mist and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✨ "Pain was just another language. Some people spoke it fluently."
Fated Rebirth is a dark, emotionally intense story of reincarnation, revenge, and fate weaving lives together across time.
From the very first page, the book throws you into something heavy and unsettling. Violet is torturing the man who abused her for twenty-four years and while that opening is powerful and gripping, it’s also far darker than the tone of the rest of the story. The prologue may feel unsettling for some readers who aren’t expecting that level of intensity right away. However, by the epilogue, everything comes full circle in a way that makes the opening feel purposeful.
─────────────────────────
📖 The Details
⭐ Rating: 3.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
📚 Genre: Dark Paranormal Romance / Fantasy
🔮 Themes & Tropes: Reincarnation, revenge, fate-bound lovers, dual POV, secret societies, supernatural, morelly grey, feminine rage, slow-burn, frenemies to lovers, dark paranormal romance, Neo Noir Vibes
⚠ Content / Trigger Warnings:
• Violence/Murder
• Stalking
• Abuse
• Forced Relationship
• Misogyny
• Mental Health
─────────────────────────
💭 My Reading Experience
The story begins dark, emotional, and intense, then gradually shifts into deeper world-building and character development.
At its heart, this is a story about reclaiming control after trauma.
Violet is reincarnated into a second chance at life, forced to confront memories and wounds from her past existence. But this time, she has power, and a choice in how her story unfolds. Watching her return to the world that once broke her, now on her own terms, was one of the strongest emotional elements of the book.
Rowan’s storyline adds another intriguing layer. He comes from a future where the veil separating the supernatural world from the human world has fallen, creating chaos between realms. His intensity and growing protectiveness toward Violet add tension and emotional weight to their connection.
The university setting acts more as a backdrop than the focus of the story, but I especially enjoyed a scene from Violet’s psychology class that debated religion, morality, and the nature of good versus evil. That discussion added philosophical depth and tied beautifully into the larger themes of fate and justice.
The supernatural elements carry more of a hidden underworld / mob-style power structure vibe rather than political intrigue. We get intriguing glimpses of vampires, shifters, demons, and gods, but I found myself wanting more exploration of this side of the world. The foundation is strong, and I’m hopeful the sequel expands further on these elements.
The dual POV was handled well. Even though we sometimes revisit the same moments from different perspectives, it helped deepen emotional context and reveal secrets gradually.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the banter between Violet and Rowan. Their exchanges felt natural and character-driven rather than forced. The way their humor, tension, and emotional walls played off each other made their connection feel authentic. Their personalities and past trauma shape how they communicate, and that made their relationship development feel earned rather than rushed.
─────────────────────────
🖤 Characters
Violet is defiant, resilient, and emotionally complex. Her journey focuses heavily on processing trauma and reclaiming autonomy. Rather than being defined by what happened to her, she actively reshapes her future, and I appreciated how her strength developed through emotional healing rather than just physical power.
"I am not defined by what happened to me. I am survivor."
Rowan brings intensity and mystery. His knowledge of a fractured future and the collapsing supernatural veil adds stakes to the story, and his protectiveness grows into fierce loyalty that drives many of his choices.
Their dynamic carries steady tension, emotional vulnerability, and sharp banter that balances the darker themes of the story.
"I hated how her smile-rare as sunlight through storm clouds-could thaw parts of me I'd thought frozen I'm my previous life."
─────────────────────────
💖 What Worked For Me
• Strong emotional core centered on trauma and healing
• Interesting reincarnation concept with layered timelines
• Philosophical themes exploring fate, morality, and religion
• Character-driven banter that made the romance feel natural
• Dual POV that deepened character perspectives
• Well-paced length — long enough for development but never dragging
─────────────────────────
⚡ What Didn’t Fully Work For Me
• The prologue’s extreme darkness may be jarring compared to the rest of the book
• Repeated scene overlaps in dual POV sometimes felt repetitive
• The supernatural world was intriguing but not explored deeply enough
• Personal preference: the repeated use of “daddy” violet used in reference to dad
─────────────────────────
🌙 Final Thoughts
Fated Rebirth is a dark story about second chances, fate, and reclaiming power after unimaginable trauma.
It blends emotional healing, supernatural intrigue, layered timelines, and character-driven romance into a story that feels both intimate and epic in scope.
While I wished for deeper exploration of the supernatural world, the emotional journey, strong character dynamics, and authentic banter kept me invested.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance with reincarnation, fate-bound characters, emotional healing arcs, and sharp romantic tension, this is worth picking up.
✨ "Pain was just another language. Some people spoke it fluently."
Fated Rebirth is a dark, emotionally intense story of reincarnation, revenge, and fate weaving lives together across time.
From the very first page, the book throws you into something heavy and unsettling. Violet is torturing the man who abused her for twenty-four years and while that opening is powerful and gripping, it’s also far darker than the tone of the rest of the story. The prologue may feel unsettling for some readers who aren’t expecting that level of intensity right away. However, by the epilogue, everything comes full circle in a way that makes the opening feel purposeful.
─────────────────────────
📖 The Details
⭐ Rating: 3.5/5
🌶️ Spice Level: 3/5
📚 Genre: Dark Paranormal Romance / Fantasy
🔮 Themes & Tropes: Reincarnation, revenge, fate-bound lovers, dual POV, secret societies, supernatural, morelly grey, feminine rage, slow-burn, frenemies to lovers, dark paranormal romance, Neo Noir Vibes
⚠ Content / Trigger Warnings:
• Violence/Murder
• Stalking
• Abuse
• Forced Relationship
• Misogyny
• Mental Health
─────────────────────────
💭 My Reading Experience
The story begins dark, emotional, and intense, then gradually shifts into deeper world-building and character development.
At its heart, this is a story about reclaiming control after trauma.
Violet is reincarnated into a second chance at life, forced to confront memories and wounds from her past existence. But this time, she has power, and a choice in how her story unfolds. Watching her return to the world that once broke her, now on her own terms, was one of the strongest emotional elements of the book.
Rowan’s storyline adds another intriguing layer. He comes from a future where the veil separating the supernatural world from the human world has fallen, creating chaos between realms. His intensity and growing protectiveness toward Violet add tension and emotional weight to their connection.
The university setting acts more as a backdrop than the focus of the story, but I especially enjoyed a scene from Violet’s psychology class that debated religion, morality, and the nature of good versus evil. That discussion added philosophical depth and tied beautifully into the larger themes of fate and justice.
The supernatural elements carry more of a hidden underworld / mob-style power structure vibe rather than political intrigue. We get intriguing glimpses of vampires, shifters, demons, and gods, but I found myself wanting more exploration of this side of the world. The foundation is strong, and I’m hopeful the sequel expands further on these elements.
The dual POV was handled well. Even though we sometimes revisit the same moments from different perspectives, it helped deepen emotional context and reveal secrets gradually.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the banter between Violet and Rowan. Their exchanges felt natural and character-driven rather than forced. The way their humor, tension, and emotional walls played off each other made their connection feel authentic. Their personalities and past trauma shape how they communicate, and that made their relationship development feel earned rather than rushed.
─────────────────────────
🖤 Characters
Violet is defiant, resilient, and emotionally complex. Her journey focuses heavily on processing trauma and reclaiming autonomy. Rather than being defined by what happened to her, she actively reshapes her future, and I appreciated how her strength developed through emotional healing rather than just physical power.
"I am not defined by what happened to me. I am survivor."
Rowan brings intensity and mystery. His knowledge of a fractured future and the collapsing supernatural veil adds stakes to the story, and his protectiveness grows into fierce loyalty that drives many of his choices.
Their dynamic carries steady tension, emotional vulnerability, and sharp banter that balances the darker themes of the story.
"I hated how her smile-rare as sunlight through storm clouds-could thaw parts of me I'd thought frozen I'm my previous life."
─────────────────────────
💖 What Worked For Me
• Strong emotional core centered on trauma and healing
• Interesting reincarnation concept with layered timelines
• Philosophical themes exploring fate, morality, and religion
• Character-driven banter that made the romance feel natural
• Dual POV that deepened character perspectives
• Well-paced length — long enough for development but never dragging
─────────────────────────
⚡ What Didn’t Fully Work For Me
• The prologue’s extreme darkness may be jarring compared to the rest of the book
• Repeated scene overlaps in dual POV sometimes felt repetitive
• The supernatural world was intriguing but not explored deeply enough
• Personal preference: the repeated use of “daddy” violet used in reference to dad
─────────────────────────
🌙 Final Thoughts
Fated Rebirth is a dark story about second chances, fate, and reclaiming power after unimaginable trauma.
It blends emotional healing, supernatural intrigue, layered timelines, and character-driven romance into a story that feels both intimate and epic in scope.
While I wished for deeper exploration of the supernatural world, the emotional journey, strong character dynamics, and authentic banter kept me invested.
If you enjoy dark paranormal romance with reincarnation, fate-bound characters, emotional healing arcs, and sharp romantic tension, this is worth picking up.
April 6, 2026
Fortunately for me, I’m done with this book. I finished it against all odds. This was not for me in any way, and it’s my fault for getting myself into this situation. I still can’t help but give it the honest rating I’ve given it. I’m usually pretty generous with my ratings but the urge to DNF was so strong I just had to give it a two star.
I’ll start by saying this wasn’t for me, but it might be for someone else so feel free to pick this book up if it sounds like something you’re into. It wasn’t something I was personally into, but that’s beside the point.
Where was the fantasy? The last ten percent? If that? This was, and I won’t sugarcoat it, just spicy scenes. And if they weren’t actual scenes of them doing it, they were scenes of them thinking about doing it. Every other page someone was turned on. In fact, someone was turned on all the time. Both of them, actually. I don’t know how I missed this detail when looking to pick up this book. And I feel like I must stress that I understand Violet’s situation. What happened to her in the past and that’s why the book is the way it is, she was abused. But that other guy, Rowan. There’s no excuse for him. And it’s not like what they’re doing is a bad thing! It’s just the… only thing. It’s most of the plot of this book and I just can’t get behind that. Maybe you’re into things like that, I’m really not even trying to put anyone off reading this book, this was just so unpleasant to read for me unfortunately. I found myself cringing multiple times at what was going on. I didn’t feel anything for any of the main characters. Besides sympathy for Violet, obviously. Yeah, the both of them together were well suited for each other I guess, but I don’t need to know all that. Especially if it’s the only thing they’re telling me. What else is going on? Do we have any kind of other thing that’s happening or? I did appreciate the emphasis on consent, especially in the scene where she’s drugged and all. I don’t even understand if they’re supposed to be enemies to lovers or friends to lovers, because it’s marketed as the former but the latter is more realistic because they were childhood friends? I don’t know.
I was ultimately just missing the fantasy. You could’ve told me this was anything else and I would’ve believed it. It’s marketed as a dark romantasy. Dark, certainly. Romance, unfortunately. Fantasy? Show me proof of that. Because all we got was, “I had a previous life and was reborn.” Oh and the last ten percent of this book. If that’s enough for you, go for it.
Personally you couldn’t pay me to continue what I think is going to be a series that this book is in. I just have no interest in it, especially if they’re all going to be similar to this book. I should’ve done my research before deciding to pick this up, I know. And I see this is a well loved book so far apparently, I’m definitely in the minority. I really dislike leaving negative reviews especially of indie books, but it is what it is. Search up the trigger warnings if this sounds appealing to you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I’ll start by saying this wasn’t for me, but it might be for someone else so feel free to pick this book up if it sounds like something you’re into. It wasn’t something I was personally into, but that’s beside the point.
Where was the fantasy? The last ten percent? If that? This was, and I won’t sugarcoat it, just spicy scenes. And if they weren’t actual scenes of them doing it, they were scenes of them thinking about doing it. Every other page someone was turned on. In fact, someone was turned on all the time. Both of them, actually. I don’t know how I missed this detail when looking to pick up this book. And I feel like I must stress that I understand Violet’s situation. What happened to her in the past and that’s why the book is the way it is, she was abused. But that other guy, Rowan. There’s no excuse for him. And it’s not like what they’re doing is a bad thing! It’s just the… only thing. It’s most of the plot of this book and I just can’t get behind that. Maybe you’re into things like that, I’m really not even trying to put anyone off reading this book, this was just so unpleasant to read for me unfortunately. I found myself cringing multiple times at what was going on. I didn’t feel anything for any of the main characters. Besides sympathy for Violet, obviously. Yeah, the both of them together were well suited for each other I guess, but I don’t need to know all that. Especially if it’s the only thing they’re telling me. What else is going on? Do we have any kind of other thing that’s happening or? I did appreciate the emphasis on consent, especially in the scene where she’s drugged and all. I don’t even understand if they’re supposed to be enemies to lovers or friends to lovers, because it’s marketed as the former but the latter is more realistic because they were childhood friends? I don’t know.
I was ultimately just missing the fantasy. You could’ve told me this was anything else and I would’ve believed it. It’s marketed as a dark romantasy. Dark, certainly. Romance, unfortunately. Fantasy? Show me proof of that. Because all we got was, “I had a previous life and was reborn.” Oh and the last ten percent of this book. If that’s enough for you, go for it.
Personally you couldn’t pay me to continue what I think is going to be a series that this book is in. I just have no interest in it, especially if they’re all going to be similar to this book. I should’ve done my research before deciding to pick this up, I know. And I see this is a well loved book so far apparently, I’m definitely in the minority. I really dislike leaving negative reviews especially of indie books, but it is what it is. Search up the trigger warnings if this sounds appealing to you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 23, 2026
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist felt like a breath of fresh air in the dark fantasy romance genre, mainly through the bold and intriguing concepts it explores—divine rebellion, reincarnation, vengeance, and feminine rage, all woven into a seductive and emotionally intense narrative.
What truly stood out to me was the dynamic between Violet and Rowan. Their chemistry feels natural and unforced, and their banter is genuinely top-tier—sharp, engaging, and full of tension. Violet is sassy, intelligent, and deeply seductive, but also incredibly resilient. Her journey of reclaiming control over her body—especially through pole dancing—adds a powerful layer of symbolism tied to healing, agency, and empowerment. Rowan, in contrast, is more reserved, controlled, and disciplined, which creates a perfect emotional and psychological balance between them. Their relationship develops in a slow-burn, high-tension way that never feels rushed, aligning perfectly with the “frenemies-to-lovers” dynamic the book promises.
One of the most unique and refreshing elements was the exploration of shibari (kinbaku) and kink-positive themes. These are not included just for shock value, but rather as part of a broader discussion about trust, control, consent, and emotional vulnerability. The integration of psychological concepts adds depth to the story, making it feel more layered and introspective than a typical romantasy. In fact, the book places a strong emphasis on boundaries, desire, and the complexity of human connection.
The worldbuilding is immersive and ambitious, blending ancient gods, secret orders, and mythological creatures into a modern academic setting, with almost mafia-like power structures among the gods—an element I found particularly original. I also appreciated the diversity of the characters, who come from a variety of national and cultural backgrounds and are thoughtfully portrayed, with careful attention to their distinct traits and identities. The concept of reincarnation is particularly compelling, especially because both protagonists are forced to carry the trauma and consequences of their past lives into the present. I would have liked a bit more clarity on the mechanics of reincarnation, but from what I understand, this will be explored further in the next book.
The plot is intriguing, the pacing is captivating, and the writing style keeps you hooked from beginning to end. It’s a dark, sometimes tragic story, but one that is also empowering, bold, and unapologetic in its themes. Overall, I would rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a refreshing and daring read that explores feminine rage through sexuality, power, and spiritual connection, while delivering a slow-burn romance filled with tension, trauma, and healing.
What truly stood out to me was the dynamic between Violet and Rowan. Their chemistry feels natural and unforced, and their banter is genuinely top-tier—sharp, engaging, and full of tension. Violet is sassy, intelligent, and deeply seductive, but also incredibly resilient. Her journey of reclaiming control over her body—especially through pole dancing—adds a powerful layer of symbolism tied to healing, agency, and empowerment. Rowan, in contrast, is more reserved, controlled, and disciplined, which creates a perfect emotional and psychological balance between them. Their relationship develops in a slow-burn, high-tension way that never feels rushed, aligning perfectly with the “frenemies-to-lovers” dynamic the book promises.
One of the most unique and refreshing elements was the exploration of shibari (kinbaku) and kink-positive themes. These are not included just for shock value, but rather as part of a broader discussion about trust, control, consent, and emotional vulnerability. The integration of psychological concepts adds depth to the story, making it feel more layered and introspective than a typical romantasy. In fact, the book places a strong emphasis on boundaries, desire, and the complexity of human connection.
The worldbuilding is immersive and ambitious, blending ancient gods, secret orders, and mythological creatures into a modern academic setting, with almost mafia-like power structures among the gods—an element I found particularly original. I also appreciated the diversity of the characters, who come from a variety of national and cultural backgrounds and are thoughtfully portrayed, with careful attention to their distinct traits and identities. The concept of reincarnation is particularly compelling, especially because both protagonists are forced to carry the trauma and consequences of their past lives into the present. I would have liked a bit more clarity on the mechanics of reincarnation, but from what I understand, this will be explored further in the next book.
The plot is intriguing, the pacing is captivating, and the writing style keeps you hooked from beginning to end. It’s a dark, sometimes tragic story, but one that is also empowering, bold, and unapologetic in its themes. Overall, I would rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a refreshing and daring read that explores feminine rage through sexuality, power, and spiritual connection, while delivering a slow-burn romance filled with tension, trauma, and healing.
March 28, 2026
A huge thanks to Reno R. Mist for blessing me with this ARC opportunity. It was an honor to receive Fated Rebirth 🐍💛
Before anything else, Fated Rebirth is an underdog story. It’s a grim, bold, gritty, and tragic tale with moments of seductive harmony threaded through the darkness 🪡
That being said, what do you do when memories of two lives combine and your whole body and soul remember the atrocities they’ve been through ? Glad you asked. Well, you become vengeance incarnate, obviously. And you find a man who will support your violence to the grave 🔥
🏫 Dark Academia
🩸 Paranormal
💀 Gothic setting
⚖️ Morally gray characters
💥 Female rage
🪢 Forced proximity
🔥 Slow burn
❤️🩹 Trauma Healing
❤️🔥 He falls first (and hard)
𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 (𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚) 🖤
- Violet is on a quest to reclaim power over her own body, whether it is through permanently marking it, moving it with purpose, or exploring power dynamics 🪢
- This is not your usual reincarnation story with fated lovers. Ooooooh no 🙂↔️ This is traumatic, messy and dark. It’s about being prepared to dive back into the darkest immoral place to seek out vengeance 🪦
- A very specific scene: the philosophy class where Plato’s goodness principle is discussed. It gives you a great insight into Rowan’s knowledge of the world he lives in and what we, as readers, can expect from this story ⚖️
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 ✨
- More details about the paranormal underground. This first installment left me wanting to know more about this whole mafia/gods/creatures organization 🩸💀
- An explanation on how this reincarnation thing came to be 🔂
The story deals with heavy themes and mentions past sexual abuse and trafficking (not between the MCs). Your mental health matters more than anything, so be sure to check the trigger warnings first 🫶🏻
Before anything else, Fated Rebirth is an underdog story. It’s a grim, bold, gritty, and tragic tale with moments of seductive harmony threaded through the darkness 🪡
That being said, what do you do when memories of two lives combine and your whole body and soul remember the atrocities they’ve been through ? Glad you asked. Well, you become vengeance incarnate, obviously. And you find a man who will support your violence to the grave 🔥
🏫 Dark Academia
🩸 Paranormal
💀 Gothic setting
⚖️ Morally gray characters
💥 Female rage
🪢 Forced proximity
🔥 Slow burn
❤️🩹 Trauma Healing
❤️🔥 He falls first (and hard)
𝑻𝒉𝒓𝒆𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒅 (𝒂𝒎𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒚) 🖤
- Violet is on a quest to reclaim power over her own body, whether it is through permanently marking it, moving it with purpose, or exploring power dynamics 🪢
- This is not your usual reincarnation story with fated lovers. Ooooooh no 🙂↔️ This is traumatic, messy and dark. It’s about being prepared to dive back into the darkest immoral place to seek out vengeance 🪦
- A very specific scene: the philosophy class where Plato’s goodness principle is discussed. It gives you a great insight into Rowan’s knowledge of the world he lives in and what we, as readers, can expect from this story ⚖️
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒙𝒕 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 ✨
- More details about the paranormal underground. This first installment left me wanting to know more about this whole mafia/gods/creatures organization 🩸💀
- An explanation on how this reincarnation thing came to be 🔂
The story deals with heavy themes and mentions past sexual abuse and trafficking (not between the MCs). Your mental health matters more than anything, so be sure to check the trigger warnings first 🫶🏻
March 15, 2026
Big thank you to Reno for the eARC! I thought this was a solid dark gothic fantasy book with tropes that we fall in love with like supernatural elements such as past life, rebirth, vampires, werewolves. It had all good things in this book. However, I did feel like we had a lot of tropes going on that did not necessarily need to be in here that kind of threw me off a bit of the plot of the story, but still overall a great read!
I wanted to hug violet so much in this book as we face heavy topics in this story and trauma so please check your trigger warnings 🖤 I do look forward to reading more from this author!
I wanted to hug violet so much in this book as we face heavy topics in this story and trauma so please check your trigger warnings 🖤 I do look forward to reading more from this author!
March 13, 2026
First, I want to thank Reno for the opportunity to read this book as an ARC and trusting me with your story.
Alright, now let’s get to the review. This is one of the best dark romance books I’ve read so far this year, and I’m so glad that I got picked to read this. It mixes dark romance, fantasy, and supernatural elements all into one. The story is a slow burn between childhood best friends and turns into something absolutely beautiful. By the end of the book, it had me on my toes, wanting more. My exact reaction was “how do you leave a book like this!?” Safe to say I’m books and cannot wait for book two. 💕
Alright, now let’s get to the review. This is one of the best dark romance books I’ve read so far this year, and I’m so glad that I got picked to read this. It mixes dark romance, fantasy, and supernatural elements all into one. The story is a slow burn between childhood best friends and turns into something absolutely beautiful. By the end of the book, it had me on my toes, wanting more. My exact reaction was “how do you leave a book like this!?” Safe to say I’m books and cannot wait for book two. 💕
April 12, 2026
Violet is away from home at Shademore University. Violet is riddled with horrific nightmares, a secret, and a vendetta she is after. When a student is found murdered at Shademore, her father sends Rowan, her childhood friend, to protect her. Her problem is she needs to shake this obsessed "bodyguard" to carry out her plan. His problem is he doesn't want to admit his feelings and simply wants to keep her safe. As Violet sets out to destroy the man who ruined her in a previous life, she entrusts Rowan. How connected is their past? How connected is their future? Can they deny their feelings? And how deep does this secret and vendetta go?
“You are strength,” he whispered into my hair. “You are fire, Violet. You may have broken, but you are the metal that has been reforged in flame. You are the weapon you have become now.”
Y'all! This story was such a pleasant surprise and I really enjoyed it. This dual POV story is slow to medium paced, has a solid plot, dives deep into a new world and has solid character development for the FMC. Both the FMC and the MMC are like-able and their banter and chemistry bleeds from the pages. She is stubborn, he is intense and their shared history made their bond feel organic.
I did find this new world and the paranormal aspect disconnected at times causing me to re-read paragraphs and make a few assumptions. Overall, the story is well written, enjoyable and deserves more exploration. I can't wait for the book 2!
If you enjoy slow burn romance, stubborn FMC's, dark Academia, gothic vibes, forced proximity, morally grey characters, paranormal creatures, deities, and reclaiming your power, you will enjoy this book. Reader beware there are dark concepts in the prologue that set the ground work for Violet's rage. Don't you worry though, vengeance is always sweet when deserved.
A huge thank you to Reno R Mist and Rattle the Stars PR for the advanced reader copy and the chance to meet new my friends at Shademore University.
“You are strength,” he whispered into my hair. “You are fire, Violet. You may have broken, but you are the metal that has been reforged in flame. You are the weapon you have become now.”
Y'all! This story was such a pleasant surprise and I really enjoyed it. This dual POV story is slow to medium paced, has a solid plot, dives deep into a new world and has solid character development for the FMC. Both the FMC and the MMC are like-able and their banter and chemistry bleeds from the pages. She is stubborn, he is intense and their shared history made their bond feel organic.
I did find this new world and the paranormal aspect disconnected at times causing me to re-read paragraphs and make a few assumptions. Overall, the story is well written, enjoyable and deserves more exploration. I can't wait for the book 2!
If you enjoy slow burn romance, stubborn FMC's, dark Academia, gothic vibes, forced proximity, morally grey characters, paranormal creatures, deities, and reclaiming your power, you will enjoy this book. Reader beware there are dark concepts in the prologue that set the ground work for Violet's rage. Don't you worry though, vengeance is always sweet when deserved.
A huge thank you to Reno R Mist and Rattle the Stars PR for the advanced reader copy and the chance to meet new my friends at Shademore University.
April 2, 2026
4,5/5
Thank you NetGalley, the author, Posh Pangolin Publishers and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I had low expectations with the first third of the book. The characters were being developed slowly, and certain details were kind of red flags until an explanation was given (the fact they were technically step-siblings was kind of rough to me). Those details did not make the whole book less entertaining.
It got addicting. The writing was easy to follow. It was clear yet it didn’t treat the reader as dumb. Violet and Rowan were very well designed and built: they had both praises and good characteristics and flaws. The relationship dynamic was kinky on its whole, which makes sense considering its topic and its dedication (it did give a character that listens, supports and knows how to stand beside you, Rowan has became one of my all-time favourites).
Before you give it a chance, pay attention to its My Readers chapters: its smut is very well written and consent is present at all times. I tend to not like how sometimes it is crammed into the plot. In this one, it’s present and affects the plot and its relationships dynamic.
In general, if you enjoy paranormal plots, a very-well developed romance and low fantasy, this one is definitely for you! Very excited to see how the saga goes!
Thank you NetGalley, the author, Posh Pangolin Publishers and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I had low expectations with the first third of the book. The characters were being developed slowly, and certain details were kind of red flags until an explanation was given (the fact they were technically step-siblings was kind of rough to me). Those details did not make the whole book less entertaining.
It got addicting. The writing was easy to follow. It was clear yet it didn’t treat the reader as dumb. Violet and Rowan were very well designed and built: they had both praises and good characteristics and flaws. The relationship dynamic was kinky on its whole, which makes sense considering its topic and its dedication (it did give a character that listens, supports and knows how to stand beside you, Rowan has became one of my all-time favourites).
Before you give it a chance, pay attention to its My Readers chapters: its smut is very well written and consent is present at all times. I tend to not like how sometimes it is crammed into the plot. In this one, it’s present and affects the plot and its relationships dynamic.
In general, if you enjoy paranormal plots, a very-well developed romance and low fantasy, this one is definitely for you! Very excited to see how the saga goes!
March 26, 2026
Thank you to Rattle the Stars for the ARC. This is my honest, voluntary review.
Bound by Fate, Rewritten in Fire
'Fated Rebirth' by Reno R. Mist feels like stepping into a story where fate is not a quiet promise, but something that breathes down your neck from the very first page.
The structure slowly tightens its grip. Chapters unfold with a deliberate rhythm, balancing introspective moments with rising tension, allowing the story to simmer before it strikes. Information is revealed with care, never all at once, which keeps the mystery alive and constantly shifting beneath the surface.
What truly elevates 'Fated Rebirth' is its psychological depth. The characters are not passively walking a destined path. They resist, they question, they fracture under the weight of what is expected of them. That constant tension between destiny and free will gives every choice a sharp edge, making even the quietest moments feel loaded.
The writing carries a quiet intensity that lingers. It does not overwhelm, but instead settles in slowly, wrapping itself around the emotional core of the story. Especially in the smaller, more vulnerable moments, the impact hits the hardest.
While the pacing occasionally wavers, it never fully pulls the reader out of the experience. The atmosphere remains strong, pulling everything back into place.
What stays long after the final page is turned is that unsettling feeling that fate is not something waiting patiently… but something that refuses to be ignored.
Dark Urban Fantasy | Gods & Monsters | Paranormal | Forbidden Love | Slow Burn | Yearning | Forced Proximity | Childhood frenemy to lovers | Morally Grey FMC & MMC | Feminine Rage | Neo Noir Vibes | Found Family | Mythology Gods = Mafia | He Falls First | Touch Her & Die
Bound by Fate, Rewritten in Fire
'Fated Rebirth' by Reno R. Mist feels like stepping into a story where fate is not a quiet promise, but something that breathes down your neck from the very first page.
The structure slowly tightens its grip. Chapters unfold with a deliberate rhythm, balancing introspective moments with rising tension, allowing the story to simmer before it strikes. Information is revealed with care, never all at once, which keeps the mystery alive and constantly shifting beneath the surface.
What truly elevates 'Fated Rebirth' is its psychological depth. The characters are not passively walking a destined path. They resist, they question, they fracture under the weight of what is expected of them. That constant tension between destiny and free will gives every choice a sharp edge, making even the quietest moments feel loaded.
The writing carries a quiet intensity that lingers. It does not overwhelm, but instead settles in slowly, wrapping itself around the emotional core of the story. Especially in the smaller, more vulnerable moments, the impact hits the hardest.
While the pacing occasionally wavers, it never fully pulls the reader out of the experience. The atmosphere remains strong, pulling everything back into place.
What stays long after the final page is turned is that unsettling feeling that fate is not something waiting patiently… but something that refuses to be ignored.
Dark Urban Fantasy | Gods & Monsters | Paranormal | Forbidden Love | Slow Burn | Yearning | Forced Proximity | Childhood frenemy to lovers | Morally Grey FMC & MMC | Feminine Rage | Neo Noir Vibes | Found Family | Mythology Gods = Mafia | He Falls First | Touch Her & Die
March 22, 2026
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist 🖤✨
ARC Book Review
If you’re looking for a dark romance filled with paranormal elements, mystical creatures, and a slow-burning connection… this one is for you 🌙🔥
Violet (our MFC) is an absolute badass 💫 Her story is intense and emotional, and it really makes you question just how cruel people can be. She’s a complex character in the best way, and watching her navigate everything she’s been through was powerful.
Rowan (our MMC)… whew 😮💨 He’s protective, intense, and definitely gives off “touch her and you’re done” energy. Childhood friends? Yes. He falls first and HARD? Also yes 🖤 But he’ll also have you questioning a few red flags along the way 👀
Both characters are morally grey, which just adds so much depth and tension to their story ⚖️✨
Please make sure to check trigger warnings before going in ⚠️
Tropes:
🖤 Dark fantasy romance
🔥 Slow burn
🖤 Morally grey MFC & MMC
🔥 Protective hero
🖤 Rope play
⭐️ Rating: 4 stars
🌶️ Spice: 3/5
I’m really excited to see where book two takes us 👀✨
📅 Available on Kindle Unlimited March 27 📖💫
ARC Book Review
If you’re looking for a dark romance filled with paranormal elements, mystical creatures, and a slow-burning connection… this one is for you 🌙🔥
Violet (our MFC) is an absolute badass 💫 Her story is intense and emotional, and it really makes you question just how cruel people can be. She’s a complex character in the best way, and watching her navigate everything she’s been through was powerful.
Rowan (our MMC)… whew 😮💨 He’s protective, intense, and definitely gives off “touch her and you’re done” energy. Childhood friends? Yes. He falls first and HARD? Also yes 🖤 But he’ll also have you questioning a few red flags along the way 👀
Both characters are morally grey, which just adds so much depth and tension to their story ⚖️✨
Please make sure to check trigger warnings before going in ⚠️
Tropes:
🖤 Dark fantasy romance
🔥 Slow burn
🖤 Morally grey MFC & MMC
🔥 Protective hero
🖤 Rope play
⭐️ Rating: 4 stars
🌶️ Spice: 3/5
I’m really excited to see where book two takes us 👀✨
📅 Available on Kindle Unlimited March 27 📖💫
April 4, 2026
4/5 stars.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley.
Whew. Make sure you read the trigger warnings if dark content isn’t your thing for this one. This was my first “read now” title on NetGalley and it has set the bar high for future reads. 4/5 stars.
This was a dark, intense ride that totally gripped me, I quite literally could not put it down. The story follows Violet, who is living with heavy trauma in the form of flashbacks from a past life where she was trafficked, tortured, and eventually murdered. Now she’s back in a new body, in a new life, and she is 100% here for vengeance. I loved that she was willing to cross any line and break every rule to get her justice; feminine rage at its finest. Then you have Rowan, who’s also reincarnated into this modern world and grew up as her family friend. They’re keeping secrets (my one major critique because I cannot stand anything even resembling a miscommunication trope), but their devotion to each other is the only thing stronger than the need for revenge.
Despite tackling heavy subject matter, the novel handles it thoughtfully and consistently emphasizes consent, autonomy, and personal agency, especially in contrast to the exploitation and violations Violet experienced in her past life. It’s the kind of story that blends suspense, romance, and deeper themes in a way that keeps you invested in both the mystery and the characters. It’s rare to find a story this gritty that still feels so safe in how the characters treat each other, especially with the detour into BDSM. It’s dark, it’s supernatural, and it’s deeply emotional, definitely a 4-star win for me.
TLDR: A dark but compelling fantasy with past-life memories and secrets, supernatural beings, and a childhood frenemies-to lovers romance built on trust, healing, and consent.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley.
Whew. Make sure you read the trigger warnings if dark content isn’t your thing for this one. This was my first “read now” title on NetGalley and it has set the bar high for future reads. 4/5 stars.
This was a dark, intense ride that totally gripped me, I quite literally could not put it down. The story follows Violet, who is living with heavy trauma in the form of flashbacks from a past life where she was trafficked, tortured, and eventually murdered. Now she’s back in a new body, in a new life, and she is 100% here for vengeance. I loved that she was willing to cross any line and break every rule to get her justice; feminine rage at its finest. Then you have Rowan, who’s also reincarnated into this modern world and grew up as her family friend. They’re keeping secrets (my one major critique because I cannot stand anything even resembling a miscommunication trope), but their devotion to each other is the only thing stronger than the need for revenge.
Despite tackling heavy subject matter, the novel handles it thoughtfully and consistently emphasizes consent, autonomy, and personal agency, especially in contrast to the exploitation and violations Violet experienced in her past life. It’s the kind of story that blends suspense, romance, and deeper themes in a way that keeps you invested in both the mystery and the characters. It’s rare to find a story this gritty that still feels so safe in how the characters treat each other, especially with the detour into BDSM. It’s dark, it’s supernatural, and it’s deeply emotional, definitely a 4-star win for me.
TLDR: A dark but compelling fantasy with past-life memories and secrets, supernatural beings, and a childhood frenemies-to lovers romance built on trust, healing, and consent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2026
Thank you to Reno R. Mist and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Fated Rebirth is one of those weird books that manages to mix genres in the best way! I loved the idea of a dark romance with a fantasy setting and high stakes!
Firstly, I loved the setting of the book - a world with supernaturals, with gods bending fates with their will and with humans remembering their past lives. I liked how the concept was used, and it made the story very compelling - I really liked Violet, and her story of trauma and how to reclaim our life/body after experiencing the worst of humanity. I also love Rowan, a man who was given a second chance and determined to use it to protect the one he cares for. I also loved how dark and gritty this book was - it showed the worst of humanity, how death can be a game for some people, but also how beautiful things can arise from the shadows.
Secondly, the characters were very compelling. Violet was strong, determined and willing to do everything in her power, not only to avenge herself. but also to make sure that the person who hurt her would never hurt another. I also loved Levi and Charlie's, and I look forward to having more background about their characters (maybe a prequel???). I also loved Rowan, a dedicated and loyal person, willing to do anything to protect Violet despite all he went through in his past life. I do look forward to reading more about his background and what happened to him!
Lastly, the storyline is very interesting - I feel like this book gives a lot of hints about a very interesting world - with supernaturals, the veil and what's beyond it, demons, gods, the library and why some Gods interfered. I also loved the mysteries about Rowan's past life and what it would mean for the next instalments. Overall, it's such an intriguing and strong concept, and I wish we had gotten more info in book 2. But also, the end of book 1 is setting up the perfect basis for book two, and I expect to have way more knowledge about the world and Rowan's past in book 2.
Fated Rebirth is one of those weird books that manages to mix genres in the best way! I loved the idea of a dark romance with a fantasy setting and high stakes!
Firstly, I loved the setting of the book - a world with supernaturals, with gods bending fates with their will and with humans remembering their past lives. I liked how the concept was used, and it made the story very compelling - I really liked Violet, and her story of trauma and how to reclaim our life/body after experiencing the worst of humanity. I also love Rowan, a man who was given a second chance and determined to use it to protect the one he cares for. I also loved how dark and gritty this book was - it showed the worst of humanity, how death can be a game for some people, but also how beautiful things can arise from the shadows.
Secondly, the characters were very compelling. Violet was strong, determined and willing to do everything in her power, not only to avenge herself. but also to make sure that the person who hurt her would never hurt another. I also loved Levi and Charlie's, and I look forward to having more background about their characters (maybe a prequel???). I also loved Rowan, a dedicated and loyal person, willing to do anything to protect Violet despite all he went through in his past life. I do look forward to reading more about his background and what happened to him!
Lastly, the storyline is very interesting - I feel like this book gives a lot of hints about a very interesting world - with supernaturals, the veil and what's beyond it, demons, gods, the library and why some Gods interfered. I also loved the mysteries about Rowan's past life and what it would mean for the next instalments. Overall, it's such an intriguing and strong concept, and I wish we had gotten more info in book 2. But also, the end of book 1 is setting up the perfect basis for book two, and I expect to have way more knowledge about the world and Rowan's past in book 2.
April 4, 2026
First of all, I thank the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Although I really like prologues, and use them a lot in my own writing, I felt there wasn't much need for this particular prologue. It seemed like something highlighted at the wrong moment (although I understood the reason for this scene being a prologue).
Some of the thoughts and analogies have deeply bothered me since the beginning of the book, mainly because most of them are tied to a violent discourse that I perfectly understand in the context of the main character's life, but which cannot simply be ignored. Perhaps this bad feeling is exactly what the writing intended to do to me, so I think it's good to point it out.
Something that bothered me was the way the adults, even knowing and experiencing reincarnation, refuse to believe that other supernatural things can happen or exist. If you remember your other lives when nobody else does, why the resistance to believing that anything else is real, especially coming from someone who has also reincarnated? This was one of the things that bothered me, but I think without giving too much away, this is the only one I can mention.
I confess I was very excited for this book; the concept thrilled me immensely, but I believe I expected something from it that it wasn't, and that's entirely my fault. The writing is very good, but I couldn't see a certain logic in the world-building. I think it's more for someone who enjoys romance with a touch of fantasy than for someone who only reads fantasy, like me. Perhaps the fact that I write fantasy and pay so much attention to creating a universe with rules that hold up ends up hindering my reading experience in these cases.
Unfortunately, I felt the story was presented one way in the concept and synopsis, but turned out to be something else entirely in reality. I saw it much more as a daily life of the character than a book that delved into the supernatural concepts it proposed. In fact, most of the time I was more concerned with understanding the concept of reincarnation in an already adult body and having two souls in the same body than with the character's story itself. That was a shame.
Finally, I think it's very worthwhile to give it a chance and form your own opinion. I would definitely read another fantasy book by this author.
Talking about this book: https://youtu.be/P0toVkCLsXA
Although I really like prologues, and use them a lot in my own writing, I felt there wasn't much need for this particular prologue. It seemed like something highlighted at the wrong moment (although I understood the reason for this scene being a prologue).
Some of the thoughts and analogies have deeply bothered me since the beginning of the book, mainly because most of them are tied to a violent discourse that I perfectly understand in the context of the main character's life, but which cannot simply be ignored. Perhaps this bad feeling is exactly what the writing intended to do to me, so I think it's good to point it out.
Something that bothered me was the way the adults, even knowing and experiencing reincarnation, refuse to believe that other supernatural things can happen or exist. If you remember your other lives when nobody else does, why the resistance to believing that anything else is real, especially coming from someone who has also reincarnated? This was one of the things that bothered me, but I think without giving too much away, this is the only one I can mention.
I confess I was very excited for this book; the concept thrilled me immensely, but I believe I expected something from it that it wasn't, and that's entirely my fault. The writing is very good, but I couldn't see a certain logic in the world-building. I think it's more for someone who enjoys romance with a touch of fantasy than for someone who only reads fantasy, like me. Perhaps the fact that I write fantasy and pay so much attention to creating a universe with rules that hold up ends up hindering my reading experience in these cases.
Unfortunately, I felt the story was presented one way in the concept and synopsis, but turned out to be something else entirely in reality. I saw it much more as a daily life of the character than a book that delved into the supernatural concepts it proposed. In fact, most of the time I was more concerned with understanding the concept of reincarnation in an already adult body and having two souls in the same body than with the character's story itself. That was a shame.
Finally, I think it's very worthwhile to give it a chance and form your own opinion. I would definitely read another fantasy book by this author.
Talking about this book: https://youtu.be/P0toVkCLsXA
March 13, 2026
First off, thank you to the author, Reno R Mist, and Rattle the Stars PR for an ARC of this book. I can say for certain that the concept behind this novel is one that I have never seen before. The main character having been reincarnated into the same body but years earlier and having had a different upbringing from her original life was certainly intriguing as a start. This is definitely a dark, what I would call paranormal, urban fantasy. There are lots of elements going on here and it seems to me like it should be the first entry in a series. This looks to be a planned duology, which is great. This was a fast read for me because I really wanted to find out what was going to happen with the two main characters and having the novel start off with the scene that it does and then flashback really drew me in. There are a ton of open-ended threads at the end of this book. I’m hoping that the author continues so we can find out more about the world that she’s created. If you like paranormal romance, if you like urban fantasy (think Crescent City), if you don’t mind open ended, this might be the novel for you. **spice rating 3.5 chilis**
April 15, 2026
This is a tough review to write. I wanted to like this book, but I could not. I enjoy providing support and positivity on my bookstagram, so to write a negative review is quite tough.
l found this book to be very different from what I expected. Had I known more what I was getting into, I would not have read it... so that greatly affects this review. From as an objective place, I thought the author’s writing style was easy to read, and flowed well. The first quarter of the book was the strongest and the last quarter was the most action-packed. The supernatural creatures factored much less in this novel than I expected. This is a far cry from your typical romantasy… it would be more accurately categorized as a dystopian fantasy.
🚨Minor spoiler alert ahead 🚨
The biggest thing that I could NOT get over was when our FMC Violet was able to strip dance at a nightclub where she was horrifically…treated… in her past life. She had some trepidation and anxiety prior, but pulled it off flawlessly with very little emotional turmoil. This just does not compute for me. With what she went through in her past life (you can check the description on Amazon for a bit more info), this is simply not possible, no matter how strong you are. It’s like at some point in the book, the trauma poofs away. The reasoning given was that it was HER choice and she was taking control of the situation. To me, this is so unbelievable. It was something I just could not get over, and this greatly impacted how I felt about the rest of the book.
l found this book to be very different from what I expected. Had I known more what I was getting into, I would not have read it... so that greatly affects this review. From as an objective place, I thought the author’s writing style was easy to read, and flowed well. The first quarter of the book was the strongest and the last quarter was the most action-packed. The supernatural creatures factored much less in this novel than I expected. This is a far cry from your typical romantasy… it would be more accurately categorized as a dystopian fantasy.
🚨Minor spoiler alert ahead 🚨
The biggest thing that I could NOT get over was when our FMC Violet was able to strip dance at a nightclub where she was horrifically…treated… in her past life. She had some trepidation and anxiety prior, but pulled it off flawlessly with very little emotional turmoil. This just does not compute for me. With what she went through in her past life (you can check the description on Amazon for a bit more info), this is simply not possible, no matter how strong you are. It’s like at some point in the book, the trauma poofs away. The reasoning given was that it was HER choice and she was taking control of the situation. To me, this is so unbelievable. It was something I just could not get over, and this greatly impacted how I felt about the rest of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
I went into Fated Rebirth really excited because I’ve read a short story by this author before and absolutely loved it. Unfortunately, this one didn’t hit the same way for me.
The concept had so much potential — past lives, fate, vampyres, dark fantasy elements — but the execution felt rushed and like the story line was just thrown together.
I really struggled to understand what the core focus of the story actually was. It seemed more to be about her life with MMC rather than her vengeance against the people from her past. The mention of supernatural (Vampyres, shifters, werewolves) just seemed really out of place with the original plot of the story and the mention of GodBlood seemed pointless.
The vengeance arc, particularly regarding her abuser, came across as rushed and almost like a late addition to raise the stakes. It didn’t feel fully developed or properly woven into the overall narrative, and for such a heavy theme, it needed more depth and care.
That said, the writing itself is strong and there are moments of really compelling atmosphere and tension. The author clearly has imaginative ideas and a flair for dark fantasy romance — I just wish the plot had been tighter and more cohesive.
I’d still read this author again because I know they can deliver, but this one just didn’t fully land for me sadly.
The concept had so much potential — past lives, fate, vampyres, dark fantasy elements — but the execution felt rushed and like the story line was just thrown together.
I really struggled to understand what the core focus of the story actually was. It seemed more to be about her life with MMC rather than her vengeance against the people from her past. The mention of supernatural (Vampyres, shifters, werewolves) just seemed really out of place with the original plot of the story and the mention of GodBlood seemed pointless.
The vengeance arc, particularly regarding her abuser, came across as rushed and almost like a late addition to raise the stakes. It didn’t feel fully developed or properly woven into the overall narrative, and for such a heavy theme, it needed more depth and care.
That said, the writing itself is strong and there are moments of really compelling atmosphere and tension. The author clearly has imaginative ideas and a flair for dark fantasy romance — I just wish the plot had been tighter and more cohesive.
I’d still read this author again because I know they can deliver, but this one just didn’t fully land for me sadly.
March 14, 2026
Review of Advance Copy:
⭐ A Dark, Spicy Romantasy with a Morally Grey Heroine
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist is an edgy dark romantasy that leans heavily into romance in this first installment. The story begins as a slow burn but gradually evolves into a deeply emotional love story between the two main characters, Rowan and Violet.
Told through dual POV, the narrative allows readers to see the story from both Rowan’s and Violet’s perspectives, adding emotional depth and giving insight into their motivations, fears, and growing connection. This dual perspective helps immerse the reader in the romance as it slowly unfolds.
⸻
🌶️ Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story builds slowly at first, focusing more on character development and emotional stakes before leaning further into the romantic relationship between Rowan and Violet. Readers looking for slow-burn romantasy with spice will likely appreciate the pacing.
That said, the book contains dark themes and morally complex situations, so it’s not a light or fluffy fantasy romance.
⸻
🖤 A Dark Feminine, Morally Grey Heroine
Violet is very much a morally grey protagonist, and that’s one of the most compelling aspects of the book.
She remembers her past life as a slave who was tortured and murdered, and her reincarnation allows her the opportunity to reclaim power and seek revenge. Early in the story, she takes control of the situation in a shocking reversal—becoming the torturer where she was once the victim.
This sets the tone for a revenge-driven romantasy with a dark feminine lead who isn’t afraid to embrace the shadows.
⸻
🌍 Worldbuilding & Supernatural Elements
The world of Fated Rebirth includes a wide range of supernatural creatures and paranormal elements, creating an expansive fantasy setting.
At times, the inclusion of so many supernatural beings can make the world feel slightly unfocused, as it seems like nearly every type of magical creature exists within the same story.
Similarly, Violet’s range of skills—archery, horseback riding, and Brazilian jujitsu—occasionally feels like a bit too much at once, which can make certain parts of the narrative feel scattered.
⸻
🗡️ Themes & Tropes
Beneath the revenge-driven storyline and romance, the novel explores several deeper themes, including:
• Reincarnation and fate
• Vengeance and justice
• Consent and power dynamics
• Control and personal agency
These themes add emotional depth to the story and make Violet’s journey more layered than a simple revenge arc.
⸻
✨ Final Thoughts
Despite a few moments where the story feels slightly crowded with ideas, Fated Rebirth ultimately delivers an engaging dark romantasy with a strong revenge plot and slow-burn romance.
At its core, the heart of the story is the relationship between Rowan and Violet, which grows into a surprisingly beautiful and passionate love story amid the darker themes.
If you enjoy dark fantasy romance, morally grey heroines, reincarnation tropes, and revenge-driven narratives, this book is definitely worth picking up.
⭐ A Dark, Spicy Romantasy with a Morally Grey Heroine
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist is an edgy dark romantasy that leans heavily into romance in this first installment. The story begins as a slow burn but gradually evolves into a deeply emotional love story between the two main characters, Rowan and Violet.
Told through dual POV, the narrative allows readers to see the story from both Rowan’s and Violet’s perspectives, adding emotional depth and giving insight into their motivations, fears, and growing connection. This dual perspective helps immerse the reader in the romance as it slowly unfolds.
⸻
🌶️ Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The story builds slowly at first, focusing more on character development and emotional stakes before leaning further into the romantic relationship between Rowan and Violet. Readers looking for slow-burn romantasy with spice will likely appreciate the pacing.
That said, the book contains dark themes and morally complex situations, so it’s not a light or fluffy fantasy romance.
⸻
🖤 A Dark Feminine, Morally Grey Heroine
Violet is very much a morally grey protagonist, and that’s one of the most compelling aspects of the book.
She remembers her past life as a slave who was tortured and murdered, and her reincarnation allows her the opportunity to reclaim power and seek revenge. Early in the story, she takes control of the situation in a shocking reversal—becoming the torturer where she was once the victim.
This sets the tone for a revenge-driven romantasy with a dark feminine lead who isn’t afraid to embrace the shadows.
⸻
🌍 Worldbuilding & Supernatural Elements
The world of Fated Rebirth includes a wide range of supernatural creatures and paranormal elements, creating an expansive fantasy setting.
At times, the inclusion of so many supernatural beings can make the world feel slightly unfocused, as it seems like nearly every type of magical creature exists within the same story.
Similarly, Violet’s range of skills—archery, horseback riding, and Brazilian jujitsu—occasionally feels like a bit too much at once, which can make certain parts of the narrative feel scattered.
⸻
🗡️ Themes & Tropes
Beneath the revenge-driven storyline and romance, the novel explores several deeper themes, including:
• Reincarnation and fate
• Vengeance and justice
• Consent and power dynamics
• Control and personal agency
These themes add emotional depth to the story and make Violet’s journey more layered than a simple revenge arc.
⸻
✨ Final Thoughts
Despite a few moments where the story feels slightly crowded with ideas, Fated Rebirth ultimately delivers an engaging dark romantasy with a strong revenge plot and slow-burn romance.
At its core, the heart of the story is the relationship between Rowan and Violet, which grows into a surprisingly beautiful and passionate love story amid the darker themes.
If you enjoy dark fantasy romance, morally grey heroines, reincarnation tropes, and revenge-driven narratives, this book is definitely worth picking up.
March 14, 2026
4⭐️ 2🌶️
This book is really well put together and was a great time to read! The introduction had me HOOKED and the ending has me needing to know what comes next. There are some dark topics surrounding kidnapping and stolen consent in the past, but the author doesn’t depict anything graphic and handles it well in my opinion.
I loved the prologue starting in what we assume is the present and the rest of the story backtracking to how Violet got there. Knowing what happens in the present didn’t spoil things though as the author uncovered the past. There were some things that I didn’t expect.
TROPES
Dark Romance
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Medium Burn
Magical Bargains
Feminine Rage
Revenge Plot
THE CHARACTERS
The concept of rebirth was really interesting here because it gave Violet two different backstories to learn from and shape her character from. I think the dichotomy between her past life and current life adds a lot of interest: as her past life was full of trauma and her present life had none, she has to balance being fully untrusting of others with learning to let people in.
Rowan similarly has an interesting backstory from his previous existence. I think some of his story was referenced rather than explained, so I think that book two will uncover more of his past based on where the plot was going.
So far, the side characters have been distant, but it feels fitting for the MCs, since they’re both highly independent and don’t trust others easily. It makes sense that side characters wouldn’t be around much for relationships to form.
THE ROMANCE
This was a faster burn than I anticipated. While Rowan and Violet know eachother from their fathers being best friends, and have spent years together, their switch from annoyance and dislike to lust and compassion felt really quick. I can see how love would build as they learned eachothers truths though, so it didn’t feel superficial to me - just quick.
I liked the repetition of request for consent, and Rowan learning to tone down his protectiveness so Violet can flourish. I think it showcased really healthy, adult ways of handling a relationship.
Thank you to Reno R. Mist for the arc!
QUOTES:
*quotes are from an Advanced Readers Copy. Please refer to the final publication for official quotes*
“If you're looking for a shadow daddy...
Sorry. He's not in here.
But if you want an MMC who lets you stand fully in your power, who listens, supports, and knows how to stand beside you without trying to suppress you...
Then this one's for you.”
"Take, for example, every major plague in history that was met first with fear. Fear of the unknown, of contamination, of each other. But fear never cured any-thing." She paused, letting the silence build. "Progress came from science, hygiene, and shifts in how we treat each other. If we reverse that progress, if we strip away rights and enforce conformity through fear, are we actually civilized? Or just well-dressed animals?"
"I think those who choose kindness despite the world's cruelty and social norms are the closest thing to divinity we will ever witness."
This book is really well put together and was a great time to read! The introduction had me HOOKED and the ending has me needing to know what comes next. There are some dark topics surrounding kidnapping and stolen consent in the past, but the author doesn’t depict anything graphic and handles it well in my opinion.
I loved the prologue starting in what we assume is the present and the rest of the story backtracking to how Violet got there. Knowing what happens in the present didn’t spoil things though as the author uncovered the past. There were some things that I didn’t expect.
TROPES
Dark Romance
Childhood Friends to Lovers
Medium Burn
Magical Bargains
Feminine Rage
Revenge Plot
THE CHARACTERS
The concept of rebirth was really interesting here because it gave Violet two different backstories to learn from and shape her character from. I think the dichotomy between her past life and current life adds a lot of interest: as her past life was full of trauma and her present life had none, she has to balance being fully untrusting of others with learning to let people in.
Rowan similarly has an interesting backstory from his previous existence. I think some of his story was referenced rather than explained, so I think that book two will uncover more of his past based on where the plot was going.
So far, the side characters have been distant, but it feels fitting for the MCs, since they’re both highly independent and don’t trust others easily. It makes sense that side characters wouldn’t be around much for relationships to form.
THE ROMANCE
This was a faster burn than I anticipated. While Rowan and Violet know eachother from their fathers being best friends, and have spent years together, their switch from annoyance and dislike to lust and compassion felt really quick. I can see how love would build as they learned eachothers truths though, so it didn’t feel superficial to me - just quick.
I liked the repetition of request for consent, and Rowan learning to tone down his protectiveness so Violet can flourish. I think it showcased really healthy, adult ways of handling a relationship.
Thank you to Reno R. Mist for the arc!
QUOTES:
*quotes are from an Advanced Readers Copy. Please refer to the final publication for official quotes*
“If you're looking for a shadow daddy...
Sorry. He's not in here.
But if you want an MMC who lets you stand fully in your power, who listens, supports, and knows how to stand beside you without trying to suppress you...
Then this one's for you.”
"Take, for example, every major plague in history that was met first with fear. Fear of the unknown, of contamination, of each other. But fear never cured any-thing." She paused, letting the silence build. "Progress came from science, hygiene, and shifts in how we treat each other. If we reverse that progress, if we strip away rights and enforce conformity through fear, are we actually civilized? Or just well-dressed animals?"
"I think those who choose kindness despite the world's cruelty and social norms are the closest thing to divinity we will ever witness."
April 3, 2026
I got to read Fated Rebirth as an ARC through Rattle the Stars PR and went into it knowing only the tropes and trigger warnings. This one was ALMOST a 4.5 for me, truly I enjoyed every second and am SO glad I got into it.
First the cover... I love a snake moment, tattoos, nail designs, my favorite necklace... all the snakes. So loved that from the start.
Potential "quasi" spoilers ahead.
I am a huge fantasy/romantasy reader of all kinds, but I love an intertwining of real life ( life in the city , modern day life , etc) and the underground/fantastical. That combination for me always lands for some reason - Think Crescent City. The concept here is interwoven beautifully in my opinion. The one thing I wanted a touch bit more of was an understanding of rebirth , I totally understand this is book one, so I do not necessarily mean all of the answers, but here we are , four "family members" deep , all reborn .... and while I am sure there is a greater purpose for that, I just wanted a better understanding of rebirth itself? A little more of the lore, especially considering Rowan's "expertise" into the world, but I admit that may be by design given the ending and revelation to Violet and her lack of knowledge around Rowan's background.
I will admit for a little while, especially after the Prologue, I was like, where is Edward and why are we not getting to the revenge (don't judge me, my favorite book is the Count of Monte Cristo, lol ) , but I realize now in that way this is meant to be a sloooooow burn and build into the other books. I get it, I will just have to wait.
Violet ? Relatable.... Trauma takes different forms in us all, and I think this gives one version/view of what facing that kind of trauma is like. I personally think it is an empowering one and brings with it an important message. You can't always choose the things you experience in life, but you can to some extent choose how it effects you and what you do about it. I think that is Violet's MO, she is definitely haunted but she wants to take control of her new life.
Rowan? Loved him , I just did, instantly, in their philosophical discussion (IYKYK) he says " I think those who choose kindness despite the world's cruelty and social norms are the closest thing to divinity we will ever witness" - when I tell you it spoke to me, I had to stop at the end of the chapter. He was beautifully written, complex but what you see is what you get, caring but consumes you, gives you the space to be who you are but obsessive. I can't describe it well enough, you just need to get to know him.
First the cover... I love a snake moment, tattoos, nail designs, my favorite necklace... all the snakes. So loved that from the start.
Potential "quasi" spoilers ahead.
I am a huge fantasy/romantasy reader of all kinds, but I love an intertwining of real life ( life in the city , modern day life , etc) and the underground/fantastical. That combination for me always lands for some reason - Think Crescent City. The concept here is interwoven beautifully in my opinion. The one thing I wanted a touch bit more of was an understanding of rebirth , I totally understand this is book one, so I do not necessarily mean all of the answers, but here we are , four "family members" deep , all reborn .... and while I am sure there is a greater purpose for that, I just wanted a better understanding of rebirth itself? A little more of the lore, especially considering Rowan's "expertise" into the world, but I admit that may be by design given the ending and revelation to Violet and her lack of knowledge around Rowan's background.
I will admit for a little while, especially after the Prologue, I was like, where is Edward and why are we not getting to the revenge (don't judge me, my favorite book is the Count of Monte Cristo, lol ) , but I realize now in that way this is meant to be a sloooooow burn and build into the other books. I get it, I will just have to wait.
Violet ? Relatable.... Trauma takes different forms in us all, and I think this gives one version/view of what facing that kind of trauma is like. I personally think it is an empowering one and brings with it an important message. You can't always choose the things you experience in life, but you can to some extent choose how it effects you and what you do about it. I think that is Violet's MO, she is definitely haunted but she wants to take control of her new life.
Rowan? Loved him , I just did, instantly, in their philosophical discussion (IYKYK) he says " I think those who choose kindness despite the world's cruelty and social norms are the closest thing to divinity we will ever witness" - when I tell you it spoke to me, I had to stop at the end of the chapter. He was beautifully written, complex but what you see is what you get, caring but consumes you, gives you the space to be who you are but obsessive. I can't describe it well enough, you just need to get to know him.
April 22, 2026
I started this book not long after finishing One More Chance, which I think really helped with the background information on reincarnation and Violet and Roman’s family. They are both interconnected standalones but I’m still glad I read that one first so I felt more connected with the characters and it did follow on from the previous story, as Violet was reborn at the end of book 1.
In this story, we join Violet as she struggles to adjust to her new reincarnated life. I enjoyed the concept of her struggling with memories from both lives and struggling to identify who she was now, I thought that was done really well and was interesting. Violet’s first life was very dark and traumatic and I loved her plan for revenge.
Roman is an interesting character, I was intrigued by his story since it was so different to the rest of the people we had met who had been reincarnated. I do wish that we were given more of his backstory and I hope this is something that we will get in the next book.
I liked his and Violet’s relationship, they grew up together and he always saw her as a spoiled brat but now that she’s an adult the tension is simmering. I do enjoy their spice, they have great chemistry, I just found that it unfortunately got a little repetitive at times for me, as it was mentioned a lot how aroused they got being near each other.
The story started with such a promising dark prologue, I was so excited to see what was going to happen but the story does take awhile to get there, as there is a lot of buildup to it and the rest of the book is quite tame in comparison. I think I would have preferred a little faster pace and more darkness. This book has more paranormal vibes than One More Chance, but I did like that addition to this story.
Overall, I rate this 3⭐️. I enjoyed reading Violet’s story and catching up with her family but I would have preferred a faster pace with more dark elements throughout. This is just personal preference and as always I recommend giving it a go if you like dark romance with paranormal elements.
In this story, we join Violet as she struggles to adjust to her new reincarnated life. I enjoyed the concept of her struggling with memories from both lives and struggling to identify who she was now, I thought that was done really well and was interesting. Violet’s first life was very dark and traumatic and I loved her plan for revenge.
Roman is an interesting character, I was intrigued by his story since it was so different to the rest of the people we had met who had been reincarnated. I do wish that we were given more of his backstory and I hope this is something that we will get in the next book.
I liked his and Violet’s relationship, they grew up together and he always saw her as a spoiled brat but now that she’s an adult the tension is simmering. I do enjoy their spice, they have great chemistry, I just found that it unfortunately got a little repetitive at times for me, as it was mentioned a lot how aroused they got being near each other.
The story started with such a promising dark prologue, I was so excited to see what was going to happen but the story does take awhile to get there, as there is a lot of buildup to it and the rest of the book is quite tame in comparison. I think I would have preferred a little faster pace and more darkness. This book has more paranormal vibes than One More Chance, but I did like that addition to this story.
Overall, I rate this 3⭐️. I enjoyed reading Violet’s story and catching up with her family but I would have preferred a faster pace with more dark elements throughout. This is just personal preference and as always I recommend giving it a go if you like dark romance with paranormal elements.
March 27, 2026
4.5/5 ⭐️
“You may have broken, but you are the metal that has been reforged in flame. You are the weapon you have become now.”
Firstly, thank you so so much to Reno R. Mist and the team at Rattle the Stars and NetGalley for trusting me with an advanced reader copy of this book 💕
This one really surprised me, I felt like I went in expecting one thing, and got something completely different, and so much better! If you’re looking for a dark, vengeful romance with supernatural elements and a mystery to solve then this is absolutely the book for you! There’s so much to explore in book two, which I’m praying comes soon because the ending of book one had me in SHOCK.
I love our two main characters, Violet and Rowan, they’re the perfect blend of twisted and protective honestly. And the way that they support each other is just so refreshing to see. Violet is morally grey, but for all the right reasons, and she’s determined to get revenge for the things that tormented her in a past life. Meanwhile, Rowan is here to help in any way he can, and I mean ANY. WAY. 👀 he’s supportive, protective and in awe of her strength a lot of the time, which is just the way I like it. Their banter is top tier, and getting to see the story play out through both their eyes in their respective chapters made all the difference to the story.
The way that the story was written too, and no spoilers here but the perspective is great, honestly had me guessing till the end trying to line up how the characters were going to get to where I knew they’d started. Honestly this was a really great read, I couldn’t stop thinking about it in between when I wasn’t reading, and I’m so incredibly excited for book two.
Thank you again Reno for trusting me with an ARC of this 🥹✨
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
“You may have broken, but you are the metal that has been reforged in flame. You are the weapon you have become now.”
Firstly, thank you so so much to Reno R. Mist and the team at Rattle the Stars and NetGalley for trusting me with an advanced reader copy of this book 💕
This one really surprised me, I felt like I went in expecting one thing, and got something completely different, and so much better! If you’re looking for a dark, vengeful romance with supernatural elements and a mystery to solve then this is absolutely the book for you! There’s so much to explore in book two, which I’m praying comes soon because the ending of book one had me in SHOCK.
I love our two main characters, Violet and Rowan, they’re the perfect blend of twisted and protective honestly. And the way that they support each other is just so refreshing to see. Violet is morally grey, but for all the right reasons, and she’s determined to get revenge for the things that tormented her in a past life. Meanwhile, Rowan is here to help in any way he can, and I mean ANY. WAY. 👀 he’s supportive, protective and in awe of her strength a lot of the time, which is just the way I like it. Their banter is top tier, and getting to see the story play out through both their eyes in their respective chapters made all the difference to the story.
The way that the story was written too, and no spoilers here but the perspective is great, honestly had me guessing till the end trying to line up how the characters were going to get to where I knew they’d started. Honestly this was a really great read, I couldn’t stop thinking about it in between when I wasn’t reading, and I’m so incredibly excited for book two.
Thank you again Reno for trusting me with an ARC of this 🥹✨
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
April 5, 2026
Violet endured a lifetime of trauma before her captor violently granted her death. She didn't expect to be reborn into a different life with all of her memories of her past life still intact. Rowan, her childhood frenemy, has his own experience with being reborn and with the supernatural. When he suspects supernatural activity at Violet's college, he inserts himself into her life as protector and accompanies her on her quest for vengeance.
Interesting read with an interesting premise. 4 stars because there were some plot points that I was unsure of how they fit, like how the club Violet remembers from her first life fits into the supernatural world exposed in her second life. These things could easily be explained in book 2, but I would have liked more info in this one. Otherwise, I thought it was a great read. I liked Violet's character and her relationship with Rowan. I haven't read much brat/bodyguard romance, but I think this one was well done. There was a lot of emphasis on care and consent, which I appreciated. The fantasy aspect was a little loose - there was a lot of different types of supernatural beings and I am not sure how they all connected; they just seemed to exist in the same world. The writing was well done and the story was well-told. I am looking forward to the second book in the series because this one ended on a little bit of a cliffhanger and I want to know what happens next!
Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration via Rattle the Stars PR. All opinions are my own.
Interesting read with an interesting premise. 4 stars because there were some plot points that I was unsure of how they fit, like how the club Violet remembers from her first life fits into the supernatural world exposed in her second life. These things could easily be explained in book 2, but I would have liked more info in this one. Otherwise, I thought it was a great read. I liked Violet's character and her relationship with Rowan. I haven't read much brat/bodyguard romance, but I think this one was well done. There was a lot of emphasis on care and consent, which I appreciated. The fantasy aspect was a little loose - there was a lot of different types of supernatural beings and I am not sure how they all connected; they just seemed to exist in the same world. The writing was well done and the story was well-told. I am looking forward to the second book in the series because this one ended on a little bit of a cliffhanger and I want to know what happens next!
Thank you to the author for providing this book for review consideration via Rattle the Stars PR. All opinions are my own.
April 8, 2026
I’m going to go a little deeper than I usually do with this review because Fated Rebirth details some heavy content. Violet and Rowan (and some of their family members) are all people who lived previous lives, and when they died, their memories and consciousness were reborn into existing people. Violet’s past life was extremely traumatic (SA, trafficking, abuse — a lot of physical, psychological, and sexual harm. Definitely watch the content warnings if you have non-negotiables). When she is reborn, she uses her second chance to try to hunt down the man responsible for her abuse in her past life.
Violet is resistant to sharing her trauma history with others, but she is a lesson in what good can come when one can relinquish their trauma to others and ask for help. She finds connection in Rowan, and in doing so learns more than she bargained for about vampires, shifters, demons, and other beings.
While Violet is out for revenge and Rowan seeks to protect her, the supernaturals are out causing trouble. Trouble that will lead us straight into book two, so be ready for this to end with just as many questions as it started with as we are set up for an exciting duology that feels reminiscent of the TV show Lucifer mixed with something wholly unique.
Violet is resistant to sharing her trauma history with others, but she is a lesson in what good can come when one can relinquish their trauma to others and ask for help. She finds connection in Rowan, and in doing so learns more than she bargained for about vampires, shifters, demons, and other beings.
While Violet is out for revenge and Rowan seeks to protect her, the supernaturals are out causing trouble. Trouble that will lead us straight into book two, so be ready for this to end with just as many questions as it started with as we are set up for an exciting duology that feels reminiscent of the TV show Lucifer mixed with something wholly unique.
April 9, 2026
She remembers dying.
Now she’s back—and this time, she’s hunting the man who killed her.
At Shademore University, secrets don’t stay buried. Violet Shaw’s memories of a past life aren’t just visions—they’re a warning. Someone is coming. And if she doesn’t stop him first, history will repeat itself.
But she’s not facing it alone.
Rowan Monroe was meant to be erased. Instead, he was reborn—with every sin, every memory, and every monster from his past still haunting him. Now bound to Violet as her reluctant protector, he’s pulled into a fate he tried to escape.
As murders surface and the university falls into lockdown, the truth begins to unravel—magic, gods, monsters, and a past that refuses to stay buried.
And the closer they get to the truth…
the more dangerous they become to each other.
She is his ruin.
He is her salvation.
And together?
They might be exactly what the gods fear.
✨ Read this if you love:
• gothic academia 🕯️
• reincarnation + past lives
• forbidden, slow-burn romance
• morally grey characters
• feminine rage + vengeance
Now she’s back—and this time, she’s hunting the man who killed her.
At Shademore University, secrets don’t stay buried. Violet Shaw’s memories of a past life aren’t just visions—they’re a warning. Someone is coming. And if she doesn’t stop him first, history will repeat itself.
But she’s not facing it alone.
Rowan Monroe was meant to be erased. Instead, he was reborn—with every sin, every memory, and every monster from his past still haunting him. Now bound to Violet as her reluctant protector, he’s pulled into a fate he tried to escape.
As murders surface and the university falls into lockdown, the truth begins to unravel—magic, gods, monsters, and a past that refuses to stay buried.
And the closer they get to the truth…
the more dangerous they become to each other.
She is his ruin.
He is her salvation.
And together?
They might be exactly what the gods fear.
✨ Read this if you love:
• gothic academia 🕯️
• reincarnation + past lives
• forbidden, slow-burn romance
• morally grey characters
• feminine rage + vengeance
April 1, 2026
I have to start this Arc review with the comment that The vibes for this book were immaculate. I loved the tropes and I loved the artwork that was given to us!
My interest immediately peaked with the prologue to the story and overall I enjoyed the FMC and the MMC. I love how supportive they were of each other and that they truly were friends. I also loved the idea of their rebirth and the fact that they were able to remember their past lives! It added such a depth to their characters. I wish though that we could have gotten a little bit more regarding their past lives.
Where I felt I couldn't connect well with this story was involving multiple points in the plot. I felt very lost in the paranormal aspect feeling like I was constantly given new information but not having any other follow through. We were giving snippets of the paranormal during the story and it just felt like we were jumping in so many directions and never truly getting an answer or a solution.
Again I liked the premise of the story, I just didn't vibe with certain aspects.
My interest immediately peaked with the prologue to the story and overall I enjoyed the FMC and the MMC. I love how supportive they were of each other and that they truly were friends. I also loved the idea of their rebirth and the fact that they were able to remember their past lives! It added such a depth to their characters. I wish though that we could have gotten a little bit more regarding their past lives.
Where I felt I couldn't connect well with this story was involving multiple points in the plot. I felt very lost in the paranormal aspect feeling like I was constantly given new information but not having any other follow through. We were giving snippets of the paranormal during the story and it just felt like we were jumping in so many directions and never truly getting an answer or a solution.
Again I liked the premise of the story, I just didn't vibe with certain aspects.
April 21, 2026
⭐️ 5/5
🔥 5/5
🌶️ 4/5
💧 4/5
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist, provided via Rattle the Stars PR, is a gothic dark academia fantasy that blends reincarnation, mystery, and slow-building romantic tension.
The story follows Violet, who begins to experience memories of her own death, leading her into a deeper investigation of what happened in a past life. This premise creates a strong and intriguing foundation for the narrative.
Rowan, her childhood best friend, is pulled back into a world he tried to leave behind and becomes responsible for protecting her. Their dynamic adds both emotional tension and a sense of urgency to the story.
One of the standout elements is the exploration of rebirth and memory. The concept is presented in a way that feels relatable, almost like moments of déjà vu, which adds an interesting layer to the overall experience.
The gothic academia setting enhances the tone of the story, creating an immersive atmosphere that supports both the mystery and the darker elements of the plot.
Overall, Fated Rebirth is an engaging dark fantasy that combines atmospheric storytelling with an intriguing premise and strong character dynamics
🔥 5/5
🌶️ 4/5
💧 4/5
Fated Rebirth by Reno R. Mist, provided via Rattle the Stars PR, is a gothic dark academia fantasy that blends reincarnation, mystery, and slow-building romantic tension.
The story follows Violet, who begins to experience memories of her own death, leading her into a deeper investigation of what happened in a past life. This premise creates a strong and intriguing foundation for the narrative.
Rowan, her childhood best friend, is pulled back into a world he tried to leave behind and becomes responsible for protecting her. Their dynamic adds both emotional tension and a sense of urgency to the story.
One of the standout elements is the exploration of rebirth and memory. The concept is presented in a way that feels relatable, almost like moments of déjà vu, which adds an interesting layer to the overall experience.
The gothic academia setting enhances the tone of the story, creating an immersive atmosphere that supports both the mystery and the darker elements of the plot.
Overall, Fated Rebirth is an engaging dark fantasy that combines atmospheric storytelling with an intriguing premise and strong character dynamics
March 22, 2026
Wow! The dark beginning of the book immediately drew me into the story. The first half of the book was a five-star narrative; Violet our FMC is broken but strong and thirsty for revenge, the mystical Rowan our MMC, banter and sizzling hot sexual tension and reincarnation combined with the supernatural world.
The Academy setting, tropeplay and mafia-like fantasy world worked really well, alongside the romance and strong and interesting characters. Definitely my favorite dark romantic fantasy book I've read. I can recommend the book to lovers of dark romantasy.
The story went on the four-star side for a while after the middle part for me, but the ending was strong and addictive and makes me want to continue, so all in all a 5 ⭐️ reading experience.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy.
The Academy setting, tropeplay and mafia-like fantasy world worked really well, alongside the romance and strong and interesting characters. Definitely my favorite dark romantic fantasy book I've read. I can recommend the book to lovers of dark romantasy.
The story went on the four-star side for a while after the middle part for me, but the ending was strong and addictive and makes me want to continue, so all in all a 5 ⭐️ reading experience.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy.
March 28, 2026
A dark romantasy with a man who cheats death and a woman who reincarnated into another life? Sign me up! 🤭
This book had yearning and banter in (almost) every chapter atp. Also the ending made me MAD. Like I can guarantee I would murder that dude if he appears in front of me. I'm not even kidding atp.
It was a bit slow-paced though due to the elegant description of each scene and action.
I loved the world-building, the gothic atmosphere, the paranormal elements, and SHIBARI!? Girl, that topic was new to me but when Rowan introduced it to me, I fell in loveeeee!!
I would still prefer the absence of miscommunication between these two idiots. I was screaming at them for most of the book. 😃
Thank you to Netgalley and Reno R. Mist for gifting me the e-ARC of this book! I enjoyed it immensely.
This book had yearning and banter in (almost) every chapter atp. Also the ending made me MAD. Like I can guarantee I would murder that dude if he appears in front of me. I'm not even kidding atp.
It was a bit slow-paced though due to the elegant description of each scene and action.
I loved the world-building, the gothic atmosphere, the paranormal elements, and SHIBARI!? Girl, that topic was new to me but when Rowan introduced it to me, I fell in loveeeee!!
I would still prefer the absence of miscommunication between these two idiots. I was screaming at them for most of the book. 😃
Thank you to Netgalley and Reno R. Mist for gifting me the e-ARC of this book! I enjoyed it immensely.
April 22, 2026
This is a true dark romantasy with a ton of Dark Academia vibes that starts off heavy, emotional, and completely gripping. This book doesn’t shy away from the darker themes and that’s what makes it so impactful. Please check the trigger warnings.
I loved the reincarnation concept and how Violet’s past life fueled her feminine rage and her journey to reclaiming her power! The world-building was immersive, and the character development made everything hit even harder.
Violet and Rowan’s relationship was a standout for me, and I was hooked on their chemistry and dynamic immediately. This story was dark, addictive, and had me invested from the very beginning. The writing itself is beautiful and engaging. I can not wait to continue with this series!
I loved the reincarnation concept and how Violet’s past life fueled her feminine rage and her journey to reclaiming her power! The world-building was immersive, and the character development made everything hit even harder.
Violet and Rowan’s relationship was a standout for me, and I was hooked on their chemistry and dynamic immediately. This story was dark, addictive, and had me invested from the very beginning. The writing itself is beautiful and engaging. I can not wait to continue with this series!
March 28, 2026
I was immensely lucky to read an early copy of Fated Rebirth. I say this, because otherwise I would possibly miss this absolute gem!
✨Fated Rebirth is a dark, seductive, and fiercely feminist, neo-noar hybrid of urban, mythic and romantic fantasy. If you loved Scarlett St. Clair, Sheila Materson, Carissa Broadbent, Keri Lake, Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Mass, Sylvia Mercedes this would be a perfect read for you.
But even if you are not familiar with these authors, but enjoy high-stakes, gritty storytelling, slow-burning tension, found family, frenemies to-lovers, feminine rage, and vigilante justice for abusive men- this book delivers!
✨Fated Rebirth is 10/5 ⭐️for me. And the reasons go beyond plot and tropes:
🐍Originality of the premise. Rebirth is not new in literature, but intrusion and overlap of past and current life has been written masterfully. Think about past life PTSD that affects current life in every aspect.
✨Beautiful language that enriches even mundane situations (“I was standing out like blood on snow”)
🐍Clever, incisive writing from an author who is obviously erudite (Cue in an out of this world discussion on Plato’s Euthyphro Dilemma between FMC and MMC.)🔥🔥🔥
✨Spice. Everything in this book is purposeful and development of relationship between Violet and Rowan is story about trust and surrender. Exploration of kink through shibari highlights that perfectly, while bringing some of the Japanese traditional aesthetic.
I am eagerly awaiting book 2 and cannot wait for more gods, monsters and…Damien.
✨Fated Rebirth is a dark, seductive, and fiercely feminist, neo-noar hybrid of urban, mythic and romantic fantasy. If you loved Scarlett St. Clair, Sheila Materson, Carissa Broadbent, Keri Lake, Laura Thalassa, Sarah J. Mass, Sylvia Mercedes this would be a perfect read for you.
But even if you are not familiar with these authors, but enjoy high-stakes, gritty storytelling, slow-burning tension, found family, frenemies to-lovers, feminine rage, and vigilante justice for abusive men- this book delivers!
✨Fated Rebirth is 10/5 ⭐️for me. And the reasons go beyond plot and tropes:
🐍Originality of the premise. Rebirth is not new in literature, but intrusion and overlap of past and current life has been written masterfully. Think about past life PTSD that affects current life in every aspect.
✨Beautiful language that enriches even mundane situations (“I was standing out like blood on snow”)
🐍Clever, incisive writing from an author who is obviously erudite (Cue in an out of this world discussion on Plato’s Euthyphro Dilemma between FMC and MMC.)🔥🔥🔥
✨Spice. Everything in this book is purposeful and development of relationship between Violet and Rowan is story about trust and surrender. Exploration of kink through shibari highlights that perfectly, while bringing some of the Japanese traditional aesthetic.
I am eagerly awaiting book 2 and cannot wait for more gods, monsters and…Damien.
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