Ironling
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A lady heir in a world of lords…
Aislinn Darrow was never meant to be her father’s heir, but that was before her selfish brother condemned himself. Now, she must give up her old life to take his place. She should be presiding in her father’s council chamber and serving the people of the Darrowlands—yet time and again, she finds herself straying to the castle smithy, to visit the handsome new blacksmith manning the forge.
A lady can never claim a monster…
Hakon has known all his life his place is in the background. At least at his forge, he can be of use and demonstrate his skills. The life of a halfling is one of halves and pieces, never quite to belong. When he hears of a place that welcomes halflings, he determines to build a new life for himself in the Darrowlands. It is a bittersweet fate to find everything he could ever want there, in a woman he can never have. He knows his green, sooty hands don’t deserve to touch her, but Hakon cannot resist tempting Lady Aislinn back to him, nor indulging in the fantasy of claiming her as his own.
But in a world of lords and politics, a lady such as Aislinn could never truly take a halfling like him to mate and wed—especially when her position as a woman lord and usurper leave her and her people vulnerable. When grasping lords threaten the Darrowlands, prepared to take Aislinn’s hand and land through marriage or force, she must choose—the halfling who loves her or the people who need her.
Fans of Grace Draven, Ruby Dixon, and SJM will love this fluffy, steamy monster romance story! Check sewendelauthor.com for content and trigger warnings. Mature content intended for readers 18+.
Book 2 stands on its own but will best be enjoyed after Halfling.
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2 primary books3 released booksMonstrous World
Monstrous World is a 3-book series with 2 primary works first released in 2023 with contributions by S.E. Wendel.
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“Ironling” by S.E. Wendel is a captivating addition to the romantasy genre, delivering a rich blend of fantasy, romance, and suspense that fans of “Halfling” will find both familiar and refreshing. Set in a complex fantasy world, the novel dives deep into multiple POVs, giving readers a broader perspective on the intricacies of this universe while still keeping the focus on its core characters.
One of the standout features of “Ironling” is the seamless integration of romance with plot-driven storytelling. Wendel doesn't shy away from the steamy moments—there's definitely some “porn with plot” going on here—but it's all balanced with a strong narrative that keeps you engaged beyond just the romantic elements. The chemistry between characters is palpable, and the tension is just right, making those intimate scenes feel earned and impactful.
Compared to its predecessor, “Ironling” ramps up the political intrigue significantly. While “Halfling” had a cozier, more intimate vibe, “Ironling” plunges readers into a world of deception, power struggles, and strategic maneuvering. This shift adds a layer of complexity to the story, making it feel more expansive and high-stakes. However, this change in tone might make it feel less cozy than “Halfling,” which some readers may miss.
Despite the shift towards a more intense atmosphere, “Ironling” still delivers a satisfying read. The world-building is intricate, and the introduction of new monsters adds an exciting element of danger and unpredictability. Wendel's ability to weave these fantastical elements with a politically charged plot is impressive, keeping the reader invested from start to finish.
If you're a fan of romantasy with a side of political intrigue, “Ironling” is a worthy follow-up to “Halfling.” It may not have the same cozy vibes, but it more than makes up for it with its layered storytelling and compelling character dynamics. A good read for those who enjoy their fantasy with a mix of passion and peril.