4.6 (260 ratings)

When Roses Burn (Beneath the Briars Book 1)

Name: When Roses Burn (Beneath the Briars Book 1)
Rating: 4.6 (260 reviews)
Author: Brenda K Davies
ISBN: B0FQVZJFK8

by Brenda K Davies

shifters

About this book

Ten years ago, a promise of escape was shattered by betrayal, leaving Briar longing for the man she once loved and Knox hardened by a decade of agony. Now, fate has forced them back together in a world where ancient magic and shifter politics collide. But the man who returned is no longer the gentle soul Briar knew; he is Knox, a ruthless royal fueled by vengeance and a burning need to make her pay for the despair that consumed his life.

This dark, gripping romantasy masterfully reimagines the classic Beauty and the Beast tale with a lethal, paranormal twist. As they are thrust into an uneasy alliance, the tension between them is combustible. While Knox plots to use Briar to break a devastating curse before destroying her, he cannot deny the primal, forbidden attraction that still binds them. Meanwhile, Briar must navigate a treacherous landscape of lies while struggling to control mysterious, emerging powers that threaten to change her identity forever.

If you crave high-stakes enemies-to-lovers dynamics and second-chance romance drenched in shadows, this series opener is your next obsession. Brenda K. Davies delivers a captivating, heart-pounding journey where history tears lovers apart and secrets could burn their world to ash.

Publication Date: May 25, 2026
ASIN: B0FQVZJFK8

Reader Reviews

Amazing start to a new series!

February 13, 2026

Yet another amazing book from Brenda K. Davies, she is the master of the cliff-hanger that always leaves me wanting to throw my book (or in this case Phone) because I'm mad it's over. The start of things with Knox and Briar is no exception. Briar has finally hit the point of maturity where she must go through a Needing and choose her fate as a day or night caster and where she will then draw her power from. Knox (then known as Seth) was her first love/ his mate but is not the man he used to be....

My favorite fairytale with a twist! Yes please!

March 10, 2026

By George, I think she has gone and done it again! This author has a way of drawing her readers into new worlds where there is mystery and romance and danger. This book has it all. She captivates you with her charming characters who you just absolutely love (or love to hate…lol) and their spicy chemistry. For example, Briar and Knox. But things are rocky and if you know anything about Beauty and the Beast then buckle up, we might be in for an emotionally bumpy ride. Bring it! I’m ready for book...

Amazing 1st book in a new series

February 13, 2026

I am always a fan of BKD books, and this is no exception. From beginning to end its gripping and you won't want to put it down. Briar is a strong FMC and her struggle with her identity and emerging powers is something you can really feel as you read this. She pushes to be different from others like her and doesnt give up, which I love. Knox is definitely living up to the beast in Beauty and the Beast, but hes a beast you feel for. His life hasn't been easy and its made him hard in a way that I...

Couldn't out down this book.

May 22, 2026

Loved this book. Things kept happening and so much still to be revealed. One for my favorites list. Can't wait for book 2. )

Powerful journey of love and pain

February 17, 2026

Oh how I love a good fairytale retelling. But what I love even more, is an amazing story that knocks me off my seat and leaves me wanting so much more! Doesn’t hurt that it just so happens to be inspired by one of my favorite fairytales. When Roses Burn has everything that I want in my stories! Enemies to lovers ✔️ Forbidden love ✔️ Second chance ✔️ Spice ✔️ Dark secrets ✔️ Betrayal ✔️ Ancient magic ✔️ Shapeshifters ✔️ It’s a powerful journey of love and pain. It has all the action, suspense,...