The Rise of Scarlett Heroux

The North Stars Saga, Book 1

De: Elizabeth Watson

Narrado por: Mary Jane Wells

Welcome to Soleil: magic is illegal, politics are deadly, and falling in love is the most dangerous act of all.

When Scarlett Heroux witnesses her father's assassination from mere inches away, her world shatters. The 22-year-old heiress to a political dynasty is thrust into her newly inherited seat in Parliament, compelled to fulfill her father's revolutionary dream of opening Soleil’s borders to a world of magic her people have long rejected.

After Scarlett announces her intention to open Soleil’s borders to magic, she is threatened, assaulted, and knocked unconscious. She flees to her mother's homeland where she discovers magic flowing through her veins and a fated bond she shares with her childhood friend, the handsome Brayden Maddox. Their smoldering connection—and years of mutual pining—ignites into a blaze when magic pushes them together. Yet as bodies and magic entwine, Scarlett resists surrendering to fate. How can she choose pleasure when the cost is leaving her country to the politicians behind her father’s murder?

With Brayden at her side, Scarlett returns to expose Soleil’s corrupt underbelly and open the borders. But another assault pushes Brayden to use his still-illegal magic to protect Scarlett, and the long arm of the law comes for them both. Scarlett must use her new powers to free Brayden and see her persecutors arrested by any means necessary—legal or not.

If she fails, she’ll pay with her life.

A sizzling romantasy full of seething betrayals and forbidden magic, perfect for fans of the modern fantasy worlds of Crescent City and Zodiac Academy.

Author's Note: For content warnings, please check the author’s website.

©2026 Elizabeth Watson Books (P)2026 Elizabeth Watson Books

Interesting modern world

I was instantly hooked into this world that the author created.
Scarlett is trying to cope with the sudden loss of her father.  Scarlett and her family must fight to control their legacy, and power from the parliament for their own survival.  While a possibility of a civil war is looming, Scarlett must seek refuge at her mothers’ homeland for her own survival. While there, she’s closer to her childhood friend Brayden. This is where the romance kicks up a notch and Scarlett and Brayden explore their feelings. I don’t want to tie out spoilers, but I enjoyed seeing their relationship flourish.
I enjoyed how the modern world was weaved into this fantasy world. So while there’s not a lot of world building, this is great for those that want to dip their toes into fantasy.
The mystery of who was behind everything also made my blood boil.  I loved watching Scarlett find her backbone. I also adore her grandmother and brother. I can’t wait yo see what happens next.

The narrator, Mary Jane Wells did a wonderful job portraying Scarlett and Brayden. I enjoyed her accent and she kept me engaged till the very end.

Favorite quotes:
“We’re forever linked.”
“She’s my North Star.”

Amazing narration

I had the privilege of listening to The Rise of Scarlet Heroux, and it truly stayed with me.

This story beautifully blends political intrigue, a murder mystery, and star-crossed romance, all set against a world grappling with fear and control. What stood out most to me was its exploration of healers and energy work in a city where magic has been banned. Through Scarlet, the author asks a powerful question: what if the very thing society fears could actually heal it?

As an energy practitioner myself, I felt deeply seen in the way intuition and inner knowing were portrayed. The emotional depth felt authentic and resonant.

There are also strong parallels to the political tensions and social divisions we’re witnessing in our own world, which made the story feel timely and impactful.

Scarlet’s journey — navigating privilege, responsibility, and the courage to challenge the system — made her rise compelling and inspiring to experience.

This is a story that doesn’t just entertain — it lingers.
I

Love this story!

The narrator is excellent. The story is engaging and full of intrigue and romance. I liked it so much I purchased a hard cover copy for my own collection of favorite books and a paperback copy for a friend!

Amazing debut novel

A huge thank you to @elizabeth_j_watson and @bookedwiththeemilys for the generous #gifted e-book and accompanying audiobook!

This debut novel is an absolute delight, blending romance, intrigue, magic, and politics into a compelling story.

Scarlett’s journey begins as she becomes the heir in Soleil, a land where magic is forbidden, after her father’s assassination. Threatened and desperate, she escapes to Clair de Lune, her mother's homeland, where she reconnects with her childhood friend, Brayden. Their bond deepens into love, and with Brayden’s support, Scarlett returns to Soleil to challenge corruption, seek her father's killer, and unite her people.

I was captivated by Scarlett's transformation from a grieving daughter to a fierce force fighting for justice. The layered political intrigue kept me hooked, making every page a revelation.

The rich world-building, intricate political landscape, and heartfelt romance made this book unforgettable. I loved how the modern world intertwined seamlessly with the fantasy realm, and the characters felt truly alive. Watching Scarlett and Brayden’s love blossom was a highlight.

The audiobook narrated by @maryjanewellsstories is exceptional. Her vibrant voices and accents brought each character vividly to life, enhancing the listening experience.

If you’re a fan of political intrigue, mystery, and romance, this book belongs on your reading list. It’s available now, and you won’t want to miss it!

Fascinating urban romantasy full of political intrigue!

If you like political intrigue and urban romantasy this the book for you! I loved watching Scarlett and Brayden’s relationship development along with everything else they were fighting for. The ending left me satisfied but still intrigued to hear what comes next in their stories!

✨Friends-to-lovers
✨Star-crossed lovers
✨Destined heroine
✨Magic tattoos & secret powers
✨Modern technology in a fantasy world
✨Banned magic

Thanks so much to the author for the ALC of this audiobook!