Review of Cornelia Fairfield and the Darkened Heart by Amy Leigh Chandler

With her freedom slowly slipping through her fingers as an arranged marriage draws closer, brave and brilliant Cornelia sets out for one final adventure: seeking to save her father. But darker forces are at work. Nothing is as clear as it seems as Cornelia finds herself reliant upon Adrien, her adversary.

Sailing upon rough seas and fighting monsters at every turn, their sour relationship grows from mutual respect into something deeper as they fight the forces that are trying to use them as tools. Friends become enemies as manipulation and deception rises to the surface. Who can Cornelia trust when the beliefs she held about her family and friends crumble?

A wonderful book full of sharp humour and a female lead who will keep the reader on their toes at every turn. And with deception at every corner, you’ll be left wondering how things can ever turn out well for Cornelia. A brilliant YA fantasy full of a world and characters that I’d love to learn more about.

Published on 19.05.2026 by Cranthorpe Millner Publishers

Reviewed by Rebecca

.

.

.