What do you think?
Rate this book
The Aelfyn Archives #2
The Chains of Fate
Shackled by destiny, chained by fate.
Serenna
Reeling in the wake of the wraith attack on Centarya, expanding fear of the future consumes Serenna’s thoughts. Training for the conflict to come, Prince Vesryn exploits new tactics to drive Serenna toward her untapped power. But she soon finds herself confronting a dilemma that takes her focus away from the impending war.
Jassyn
Before processing his strange new magic and admitting to saving the life of a wraith, Jassyn must first address his own inner turmoil. Struggling to free himself from the clutches of Stardust, he seeks help from the most unlikely person imaginable.
Lykor
In response to the unforeseen setback from the wraith’s assault, Lykor determines the next steps to ensure his people’s safety. He delves deeper into the secrets hidden in their ancient keep, hunting for something long forgotten that may hold the key to the wraith’s future.
Author's notes:
Please be aware that this novel is intended for adults with darker themes some readers may find triggering or disturbing. Please consider your mental health before diving into this story if you have any concerns. Content warnings can be found in the sample listed at the front of the novel on Amazon
Serenna
Reeling in the wake of the wraith attack on Centarya, expanding fear of the future consumes Serenna’s thoughts. Training for the conflict to come, Prince Vesryn exploits new tactics to drive Serenna toward her untapped power. But she soon finds herself confronting a dilemma that takes her focus away from the impending war.
Jassyn
Before processing his strange new magic and admitting to saving the life of a wraith, Jassyn must first address his own inner turmoil. Struggling to free himself from the clutches of Stardust, he seeks help from the most unlikely person imaginable.
Lykor
In response to the unforeseen setback from the wraith’s assault, Lykor determines the next steps to ensure his people’s safety. He delves deeper into the secrets hidden in their ancient keep, hunting for something long forgotten that may hold the key to the wraith’s future.
Author's notes:
Please be aware that this novel is intended for adults with darker themes some readers may find triggering or disturbing. Please consider your mental health before diving into this story if you have any concerns. Content warnings can be found in the sample listed at the front of the novel on Amazon
474 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 16, 2024
1234 people are currently reading
8373 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Amstutz
8 books407 followersSamantha Amstutz is the author of the Aelfyn Archives based in South Carolina with roots in Indiana. She is inspired by Wheel of Time, World of Warcraft, The Elder Scrolls Online, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Stargate, Star Trek, and the entire romantasy genre. In her novels, you can expect (multiple) immersive magic systems, different races, plot and intrigue, slow-burn romance, diversity and inclusion, and believable characters with flaws.
She is honored and beyond thrilled you're reading her work and she hopes something in her created world resonates with yours.
She is honored and beyond thrilled you're reading her work and she hopes something in her created world resonates with yours.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews
July 23, 2024
I’m pretty solidly team Fenn - after Vesryn and Serena came together and it was less than magical, Fenn was what we needed.
June 28, 2025
°. *࿐pre-read:
it's raining right now, so if this isn't good I am taking it personally
it's raining right now, so if this isn't good I am taking it personally
February 12, 2025
Now that I've finished my Chains of Fate ARC, I must try to pull myself together and find a way to function today. How am I going to achieve that after reading this utter masterpiece? I am not sure.
Ever since I got my hands on The Aspect of Essence, Book 1 in the Aelfyn Archives by Samantha Amstutz, I knew my reading experience would never be the same. I don't know if words are strong enough to express all the emotions I've experienced while reading this dark epic fantasy.
Samantha has created a story that won't ever leave your mind. Its intricacy, beautifully crafted lore, and masterfully written characters add to the series' magic.
In a world ruled by elves, elven-blooded are used as a tool to prolong the elven race, and humans are labour power. A sinister force, the Wraiths, seemingly disrupts the peace and leaves a path of destruction behind. But who are they really? Are they just mindless evil creatures, or is there more to it?
In The Chains of Fate, we go deeper, exploring the world's lore and history, not just the wraiths but the races that have long come and gone. We learn more about the horrible events that have passed and those currently taking place. And those revelations will change everything.
Besides the central trio from Book 1, Serenna, Vesryn, and Jassyn, we are introduced to some old and new characters. We learn more about Lykor and meet Fenn, a character that now holds a special place in my heart, next to Jassyn.
Each of the intertwined plotlines is so strong and so full of emotions. Jassyn is the one character I want to keep close and protect from the world; in this book, even though he still struggles with the demons of his past, he finds his inner strength and his voice. I am so proud of him; he deserves everything. Vesryn, while still being his morally grey self, shows so much growth; he really tries to be and do better, even though, at times, it isn't easy. I love Serenna; her character is portrayed beautifully and realistically as we witness her growing into her powers while still holding that shred of self-doubt. And Fenn... How much I adore him! He embodies love, devotion, and loyalty paired with cheekiness, humour, and a beautiful soul. Finally, Lykor is a character tortured by his past, and you have to sympathize with him, even when you struggle to understand some of his actions. I hope his soul will find the peace and the healing he desperately needs.
I was crushed by that ending, and I don't know how I will live my life until I have Book 3 in my hands.
Please, get your hands on The Aelfyn Archives; you won't regret it!
The Chains of Fate will gift you
- dark fantasy perfection
- intricate world-building
- elemental and star-based magic
- fated bonds with a twist
- shadowplay
- prisoner/guard dynamics
- forced proximity
- trauma healing
- LGBTQ rep,
and a story that will grab you and won't let go!
Ever since I got my hands on The Aspect of Essence, Book 1 in the Aelfyn Archives by Samantha Amstutz, I knew my reading experience would never be the same. I don't know if words are strong enough to express all the emotions I've experienced while reading this dark epic fantasy.
Samantha has created a story that won't ever leave your mind. Its intricacy, beautifully crafted lore, and masterfully written characters add to the series' magic.
In a world ruled by elves, elven-blooded are used as a tool to prolong the elven race, and humans are labour power. A sinister force, the Wraiths, seemingly disrupts the peace and leaves a path of destruction behind. But who are they really? Are they just mindless evil creatures, or is there more to it?
In The Chains of Fate, we go deeper, exploring the world's lore and history, not just the wraiths but the races that have long come and gone. We learn more about the horrible events that have passed and those currently taking place. And those revelations will change everything.
Besides the central trio from Book 1, Serenna, Vesryn, and Jassyn, we are introduced to some old and new characters. We learn more about Lykor and meet Fenn, a character that now holds a special place in my heart, next to Jassyn.
Each of the intertwined plotlines is so strong and so full of emotions. Jassyn is the one character I want to keep close and protect from the world; in this book, even though he still struggles with the demons of his past, he finds his inner strength and his voice. I am so proud of him; he deserves everything. Vesryn, while still being his morally grey self, shows so much growth; he really tries to be and do better, even though, at times, it isn't easy. I love Serenna; her character is portrayed beautifully and realistically as we witness her growing into her powers while still holding that shred of self-doubt. And Fenn... How much I adore him! He embodies love, devotion, and loyalty paired with cheekiness, humour, and a beautiful soul. Finally, Lykor is a character tortured by his past, and you have to sympathize with him, even when you struggle to understand some of his actions. I hope his soul will find the peace and the healing he desperately needs.
I was crushed by that ending, and I don't know how I will live my life until I have Book 3 in my hands.
Please, get your hands on The Aelfyn Archives; you won't regret it!
The Chains of Fate will gift you
- dark fantasy perfection
- intricate world-building
- elemental and star-based magic
- fated bonds with a twist
- shadowplay
- prisoner/guard dynamics
- forced proximity
- trauma healing
- LGBTQ rep,
and a story that will grab you and won't let go!
July 28, 2024
2,5 ⭐️ This was one of my most anticipated releases this year and I am utterly disappointed.
Where do I start?
- I so excited for the banter between Vesryn and Serenna and how their relationship evolves - but we got NONE of that. Just a more than less romantic bend over the balcony and kicking her out of the apartment.
- The friendship between Serenna and Jassyn - NONE of that. They exchanged like 3 sentences in the whole book.
- This weird love triangle all of the sudden. I really need a disclaimer for love triangle’s because I loath them. This one felt so unnecessary and forced. Yeah Fenn could answer all questions because they were not IMPORTANT questions.
- Serenna just casually handing over her power to Fenn. That was such a stupid move and plan.
- Vesryn and Jassyn not looking for her but just training?? Don’t get it.
- To be honest, I wanted Fenn to die just to stop this love triangle.
I am so disappointed and honestly I do not know if I will even continue this series.
Where do I start?
- I so excited for the banter between Vesryn and Serenna and how their relationship evolves - but we got NONE of that. Just a more than less romantic bend over the balcony and kicking her out of the apartment.
- The friendship between Serenna and Jassyn - NONE of that. They exchanged like 3 sentences in the whole book.
- This weird love triangle all of the sudden. I really need a disclaimer for love triangle’s because I loath them. This one felt so unnecessary and forced. Yeah Fenn could answer all questions because they were not IMPORTANT questions.
- Serenna just casually handing over her power to Fenn. That was such a stupid move and plan.
- Vesryn and Jassyn not looking for her but just training?? Don’t get it.
- To be honest, I wanted Fenn to die just to stop this love triangle.
I am so disappointed and honestly I do not know if I will even continue this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 18, 2024
That got unexpectedly SO GOOD
P.S. I’m team both boys ;)
P.S. I’m team both boys ;)
July 16, 2024
Ma’am you did WHAT?! Serenna you little hoe!! I’m so so so unwell after finishing this!! I need all of my bookish friends to read this series ASAPP and talk to me about the ending because I am REELING 🤡🥲😵💫😻
This series is so unique in the Romantasy realm and I was so surprised by the developments in this sequel! Still team Vesryn 🫡 but was also a little feral over Fenn 🥲
And a moment for the lagoons?! The author promised spice and she delivered. I ate this book up, thank you. Waiting until 2025 for book 3 may end me.
This series is so unique in the Romantasy realm and I was so surprised by the developments in this sequel! Still team Vesryn 🫡 but was also a little feral over Fenn 🥲
And a moment for the lagoons?! The author promised spice and she delivered. I ate this book up, thank you. Waiting until 2025 for book 3 may end me.
September 23, 2025
Oh hey, another why choose that was not in fact marketed that way (you get the first inkling of it at the end of book 2) 💀
Authors. Please. Do better.
Authors. Please. Do better.
November 27, 2024
I truly believe this is one of the most underrated series out there. I’ve seen almost no one talk about it, yet it’s already one of my all-time favorites. It has everything—magic, angst, an intense love triangle, immersive world-building, and characters who completely shift your perspective. The ones you start off hating? By the end, you might just love them.
And let’s talk about that ending—it absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible! I can’t stop thinking about it, and now I’m devastated that I have to wait for the next book. I need to know what’s going to happen to my love, Fenn ❤️
And let’s talk about that ending—it absolutely wrecked me in the best way possible! I can’t stop thinking about it, and now I’m devastated that I have to wait for the next book. I need to know what’s going to happen to my love, Fenn ❤️
September 5, 2024
5⭐️subjectively becuase I was OBSESSED with this book, the world, the characters!!! It had its flaws (mostly pertaining to the editor imo) but oh my god I haven’t eaten up a book like this in a while! I’m so upset I have to wait an entire year for the next book 😭💗
🦄🌶️ 3
🦄🌶️ 3
July 4, 2024
I enjoyed the aspect of essence so much so, that I was lucky enough to get the chance to read the chains of fate before the releasedate this fall. I read this book so fast! I truly enjoyed this book/series, because I think it separates from the generic way the plots develop in many books! I was surprised several times. The magic system is truly unique and you can’t help but getting engaged in this story. I did not know how I felt at first with a second love interest, but wow. Crying! The ending of this book had me on the edge of my couch and now I’m mindblown bc I have to wait to see what comes next. The only thing I think is missing for me is that I would have loved a few chapters from Vesryns pov.
April 7, 2025
This book devastated me. I am so glad the next book comes out this month because I don't think I could wait longer. The spice was amazing. And that ending was so intense!!
July 5, 2024
I knew halfway through that just like the first book this would earn one of my rarely given 5 stars. I might even do a re-read here very soon cause I'm not ready for it to be done.
I was happy to see how the story was playing out and the turns it took. Some things played out as expected but mostly when you think something is predictable, it's not it takes a turn. Also a fresh take and unique magic system, so nice to get some distance from the currently popular and trending magic systems that seem to be adopted by many authors.
This book had me so invested and in my feelings. My feelings were hurt every few pages, and maybe that's because all the emotions are relatable, but more so it was the writing that's so good and puts you in the characters shoes. I did a lot of highlights through out.
We can't forget the banter. I am a sucker for good banter and the back and forth and this has it!
Cliff hanger ending had me in a different type of feelings.... I don't wanna talk about it 🤣🤬
Below this isn't quite spoilers but may give somethings away as you read so feel free to stop.
YOU COULDN'T GIVE ME ONE THING?!? the book ends and I don't know the status of anyone truly. Everything is left hanging and now I have to wait 😭
I was happy to see how the story was playing out and the turns it took. Some things played out as expected but mostly when you think something is predictable, it's not it takes a turn. Also a fresh take and unique magic system, so nice to get some distance from the currently popular and trending magic systems that seem to be adopted by many authors.
This book had me so invested and in my feelings. My feelings were hurt every few pages, and maybe that's because all the emotions are relatable, but more so it was the writing that's so good and puts you in the characters shoes. I did a lot of highlights through out.
We can't forget the banter. I am a sucker for good banter and the back and forth and this has it!
Cliff hanger ending had me in a different type of feelings.... I don't wanna talk about it 🤣🤬
Below this isn't quite spoilers but may give somethings away as you read so feel free to stop.
YOU COULDN'T GIVE ME ONE THING?!? the book ends and I don't know the status of anyone truly. Everything is left hanging and now I have to wait 😭
July 8, 2024
I absolutely loved aspect of the essence and was very excited for book 2! There were great and no so great moments in book 2.
The good:
I love finding about more about this world, the wraith, and the complex magic system. My girl Serenna is one of my favorite heroines. I also adored Jassyn and Vesryn’s friendship blooming.
**SPOILERS**
The reason it wasn’t a 5 star read for me is I struggled with the second love interest seemingly popping out of no where. I loved the banter and friendship between Serenna and Vesryn in book 1. I wanted them to have more time together in this book but there was no interaction between in the second half of the book. Then when Vesryn reappeared at the very end it felt clunky. Also my least favorite trope is the “misunderstanding” trope so I hate that that is the reason Serenna accidentally portaled into the wraith stronghold. I hope my two favorites reconnect in book 3!
Also I just want a happy ending for Aesar🙏🏻 and for his and Vesryns sire to be destroyed.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The good:
I love finding about more about this world, the wraith, and the complex magic system. My girl Serenna is one of my favorite heroines. I also adored Jassyn and Vesryn’s friendship blooming.
**SPOILERS**
The reason it wasn’t a 5 star read for me is I struggled with the second love interest seemingly popping out of no where. I loved the banter and friendship between Serenna and Vesryn in book 1. I wanted them to have more time together in this book but there was no interaction between in the second half of the book. Then when Vesryn reappeared at the very end it felt clunky. Also my least favorite trope is the “misunderstanding” trope so I hate that that is the reason Serenna accidentally portaled into the wraith stronghold. I hope my two favorites reconnect in book 3!
Also I just want a happy ending for Aesar🙏🏻 and for his and Vesryns sire to be destroyed.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2025
I will write a few review soon but that cliffhanger at the end had me on the edge of my seat 😳
EDIT: I thought I posted my full review, but apparently I didn't or it didn't upload properly, so here it is again.
WOW. I really enjoyed book 1 but this sequel was on another level. There were several revelations and yet I have so many questions. There multiple POV worked SO incredibly well in this story. The level of complexity of this world and characters is fantastic. I am so invested in all of these characters and I absolutely RAGED at some scenes. There were so many plot twists, small and MAJOR, that I often found myself theorizing and then being proven completely wrong. If you love to see complex romantic connections, multiple romances, secrets, betrayals, political intrigue, intense battle scenes, unique magic, and emotional rollercoasters, then don't sleep on this series. This book knocked it out of the park and I am desperate for book 3.
EDIT: I thought I posted my full review, but apparently I didn't or it didn't upload properly, so here it is again.
WOW. I really enjoyed book 1 but this sequel was on another level. There were several revelations and yet I have so many questions. There multiple POV worked SO incredibly well in this story. The level of complexity of this world and characters is fantastic. I am so invested in all of these characters and I absolutely RAGED at some scenes. There were so many plot twists, small and MAJOR, that I often found myself theorizing and then being proven completely wrong. If you love to see complex romantic connections, multiple romances, secrets, betrayals, political intrigue, intense battle scenes, unique magic, and emotional rollercoasters, then don't sleep on this series. This book knocked it out of the park and I am desperate for book 3.
January 24, 2026
slightlyyy better than the first because, again, the world building is a thing. but i didn’t expect so many things to happen which made it better
July 6, 2024
I actually don’t even have words right now to describe my feelings about this book.
Definitely one of the best books I’ve read all year. And I can’t even talk about it because it was an arc 😭😭
So do me a favor and go read aspect of essence, so you can read this on release day and I can finally talk to someone about it.
Definitely one of the best books I’ve read all year. And I can’t even talk about it because it was an arc 😭😭
So do me a favor and go read aspect of essence, so you can read this on release day and I can finally talk to someone about it.
July 5, 2024
4.5 stars!! Reading through this ARC I felt so many emotions. World building was fantastic; I was able to clearly visualize all of it! The characters truly stole my heart (Fenn looking at you 🥰), and the banter between the characters featured was (as always) my favorite. Seeing the growth between Jassyn and Vesryn made my heart soar! Lastly, the ending had me on the edge of my seat and devastated at the same time 😭
July 28, 2024
I absolutely loved, with my whole soul, book one. If you haven’t read The Aspect of Essence, run-sprint-parkour yourself over to Kindle Unlimited and start reading because it’s such a good dark fantasy and the wait for book two was 100000% worth it. The Chains of Fate is packed with action, love triangles, and MORE magic. We learn so much more about the world and the Wraith vs Elves. (Sam I will sell my soul for Fenn.) Just when you think, “Alright, it’s calming down I think it’s safe.” WRONG, plot twists.. everywhere! Jassyn, my sweet angel, his GROWTH from beginning to end in this one 😭💗 Vesryn.. babe WHERE WERE YOU? 😂 Serenna, loved her from book one- love her even more after this book. That she-elf is one of my favorite FMCs everrrrrrr. While the first book isn’t so spicy, we do have a handful of spicy scenes (There is a page that tells you which chapters to skip if you’re not a 🌶️ person without losing touch with the story.) I really don’t think I can come up with words to describe the absolute rollercoaster of emotions I went through reading this one. And if I could it would have to be after I get done absolutely sobbing about that cliff hanger. Once again, I’ll be waiting for the next book like a feral animal. 😂
February 12, 2025
kinda same as the first book- clunky but the romance is the perfect feet kicking stuff so i’m happy
cliff hanger was kinda crazy too ummm i will be tuning in for the third when it comes out in july
fenn > vesryn
cliff hanger was kinda crazy too ummm i will be tuning in for the third when it comes out in july
fenn > vesryn
July 9, 2024
ohh my goodness. i was ELATED to be a part of this ARC team and boy did it not disappoint. I am LOVING Samantha's world and character building through the second installment of this series. It fully exceeded my expectations and dare I say even outranks the first book (which is still a 10/10!). From the recap of the magics and some background, you can pick up so easily even if it's been awhile since you read the first. I am SO EXCITED to see where she takes us in the third installment.
September 19, 2024
OVERALL RATING: 5🌟
Format: 📱Kindle
“I think my broken heart is still with the prince. Even if I’ll never see him again. I wouldn’t want to give those pieces to someone else.”
"I’d gladly accept just a piece if only to protect it."
*insert squealing*
Initial thoughts immediately after finishing:
- WHAT WAS THAT ENDING
- Fenn 😍
- Honestly, this is becoming my new favorite series!
Plot 5🌟
This picks up right after the events in The Aspect of Essence, and we get strictly Jassyn and Lykor POV’s for the first few chapters. Which I love. Lykor has been such a mystery and in this book you get to learn so much about him and the Wraith. I was actually really happy that we did not spend a ton of time at the school, while I love school settings, I was eager to learn more about the wraith! Serrena takes a little trip that takes up half the book and I loved it! The plot of this really focused on the wraith and finding the truth, and I really enjoyed that!
Characters 5🌟
Aspect was more for Jassyn and Serrena, and maybe a little bit for Vesryn. This book expands into Lykor and I’ll add Fenn in there! I am obsessed with Fenn, like Rhysand level obsessed. If you love ACOMAF level flirting and sass between Feyre and Rhysand, it’s even BETTER in this book. I really loved getting to know the wraith more in this book. It reminds me so much of discovering who the real enemy was in Fourth Wing!
Writing & Pacing 5🌟
SAMANTHA CAN FUCKING WRITE! READ THIS. NOW.
Romance 5🌟
Talking about the romance feels like a spoiler, so I am going to hide it. If you aren’t worried about being spoiled feel free to uncover. If you are worried, let me tell you, it reminds me very much of Rhysand and Feyre!!
Plot to smut ratio 5🌟
Two scenes in this book, which is perfect for me!
Smut Quality 5🌟
I am loving the way Samantha writes her smut! It does get heavier in the second scene, but she writes it so lyrically. What I mean by that is it isn’t harsh at all. It flows super well, the adjectives describing the actions aren’t necessarily on the body parts, but the movements and the emotions behind it. I really really like this kind of spice!
Overall Entertainment or Emotional Reactions 5🌟
I am obsessed. OBSESSED with this series. I need that third book faster than I know I’ll get it 😂
Format: 📱Kindle
“I think my broken heart is still with the prince. Even if I’ll never see him again. I wouldn’t want to give those pieces to someone else.”
"I’d gladly accept just a piece if only to protect it."
*insert squealing*
Initial thoughts immediately after finishing:
- WHAT WAS THAT ENDING
- Fenn 😍
- Honestly, this is becoming my new favorite series!
Plot 5🌟
This picks up right after the events in The Aspect of Essence, and we get strictly Jassyn and Lykor POV’s for the first few chapters. Which I love. Lykor has been such a mystery and in this book you get to learn so much about him and the Wraith. I was actually really happy that we did not spend a ton of time at the school, while I love school settings, I was eager to learn more about the wraith! Serrena takes a little trip that takes up half the book and I loved it! The plot of this really focused on the wraith and finding the truth, and I really enjoyed that!
Characters 5🌟
Aspect was more for Jassyn and Serrena, and maybe a little bit for Vesryn. This book expands into Lykor and I’ll add Fenn in there! I am obsessed with Fenn, like Rhysand level obsessed. If you love ACOMAF level flirting and sass between Feyre and Rhysand, it’s even BETTER in this book. I really loved getting to know the wraith more in this book. It reminds me so much of discovering who the real enemy was in Fourth Wing!
Writing & Pacing 5🌟
SAMANTHA CAN FUCKING WRITE! READ THIS. NOW.
Romance 5🌟
Talking about the romance feels like a spoiler, so I am going to hide it. If you aren’t worried about being spoiled feel free to uncover. If you are worried, let me tell you, it reminds me very much of Rhysand and Feyre!!
Plot to smut ratio 5🌟
Two scenes in this book, which is perfect for me!
Smut Quality 5🌟
I am loving the way Samantha writes her smut! It does get heavier in the second scene, but she writes it so lyrically. What I mean by that is it isn’t harsh at all. It flows super well, the adjectives describing the actions aren’t necessarily on the body parts, but the movements and the emotions behind it. I really really like this kind of spice!
Overall Entertainment or Emotional Reactions 5🌟
I am obsessed. OBSESSED with this series. I need that third book faster than I know I’ll get it 😂
August 2, 2024
Warning - Spoilers
First and foremost I am honored to be on the ARC team and was grateful I got my hands on this book early! Below is no reflection on the Author but rather just my honest review.
First - The things I loved
- I loved learning more about Lykor and his dynamic with the wraiths
- I loved getting some backstory on the world and the events that have taken place
- I liked Fenn right off the bat
- I felt the story had good pacing
Now for my least favorite parts (which mainly was only one big thing)
- EVERYONE IS RELATED: this REALLY took me out of it and gave me a HUGE ick when she was with Fenn. It's 2024, i feel like we don't need incest in fantasy books. So for this alone I REALLY struggled to connect with their "love story" - Fenn also seems so puppy dog over Serenna and I liked her banter with Vesryn way better (though we didn't get any this book) is she setting him up to be a Tamlin? Also, I had a tough time with Lykor being seeimingly romantically obsessed with Jassyn because again, RELATED.
Even with all of this, I'll continue the series. I am so curious to see where it goes and I want the reunion of Vesryn and Aesar.
First and foremost I am honored to be on the ARC team and was grateful I got my hands on this book early! Below is no reflection on the Author but rather just my honest review.
First - The things I loved
- I loved learning more about Lykor and his dynamic with the wraiths
- I loved getting some backstory on the world and the events that have taken place
- I liked Fenn right off the bat
- I felt the story had good pacing
Now for my least favorite parts (which mainly was only one big thing)
- EVERYONE IS RELATED: this REALLY took me out of it and gave me a HUGE ick when she was with Fenn. It's 2024, i feel like we don't need incest in fantasy books. So for this alone I REALLY struggled to connect with their "love story" - Fenn also seems so puppy dog over Serenna and I liked her banter with Vesryn way better (though we didn't get any this book) is she setting him up to be a Tamlin? Also, I had a tough time with Lykor being seeimingly romantically obsessed with Jassyn because again, RELATED.
Even with all of this, I'll continue the series. I am so curious to see where it goes and I want the reunion of Vesryn and Aesar.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 21, 2025
I have mixed feelings. On one hand the plot is engaging, and I love how everything ties together. However, the character dynamics left me beyond frustrated.
Jassyn is, without a doubt, the highlight of the book for me. He’s a traumatized man simply trying his best, and his journey is both heartbreaking and admirable. Fenn is another great character as well. Very straightforward, confident, and refreshingly honest.
The other main characters however feel very one dimensional.
Vesyrn is self-interested and makes decisions solely based on what suits him. Serena on the other hand, clings to her victimhood and desperately yearns to be ravaged. And Lykor is just a big baby filled with rage.
And speaking of miscommunication. Tell me why it is this bad when mind reading and magical bonds exist?
It feels like the many unnecessary misunderstandings are used just to move the plot along.
Overall, as with all fantasy romance books, be prepared for some serious eye-rolling along the way. However the story is genuinely intriguing and I look forward to finding out what will happen next. This book was better than the first one, so I’m excited to see what happens in the third book.
Jassyn is, without a doubt, the highlight of the book for me. He’s a traumatized man simply trying his best, and his journey is both heartbreaking and admirable. Fenn is another great character as well. Very straightforward, confident, and refreshingly honest.
The other main characters however feel very one dimensional.
Vesyrn is self-interested and makes decisions solely based on what suits him. Serena on the other hand, clings to her victimhood and desperately yearns to be ravaged. And Lykor is just a big baby filled with rage.
And speaking of miscommunication. Tell me why it is this bad when mind reading and magical bonds exist?
It feels like the many unnecessary misunderstandings are used just to move the plot along.
Overall, as with all fantasy romance books, be prepared for some serious eye-rolling along the way. However the story is genuinely intriguing and I look forward to finding out what will happen next. This book was better than the first one, so I’m excited to see what happens in the third book.
July 8, 2024
I enjoyed aspect of essence so much that I think I overly hyped up book 2. I will definitely be reading the rest of the series but I had a couple of problems with this book
1. Vesryn and Serenna’s relationship lost its luster for me immediately- I felt like it wasn’t the same relationship as book 1
2. Why did Jassyn and Vesryn not really look for Serenna at all? I was so confused why they were just practicing fighting the entire book?
3. Serenna’s relationship with Fenn felt contrived
4. Not much happened for a good chunk of the book and then everything happens in the last 10 pages and it ends on a crazy cliffhanger
Thank you kindle unlimited for helping me discover a new author who I will be watching for new releases in the future!
1. Vesryn and Serenna’s relationship lost its luster for me immediately- I felt like it wasn’t the same relationship as book 1
2. Why did Jassyn and Vesryn not really look for Serenna at all? I was so confused why they were just practicing fighting the entire book?
3. Serenna’s relationship with Fenn felt contrived
4. Not much happened for a good chunk of the book and then everything happens in the last 10 pages and it ends on a crazy cliffhanger
Thank you kindle unlimited for helping me discover a new author who I will be watching for new releases in the future!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2024
I'm a bit torn on how to properly rate this book.
I struggled through the first half of this book—the pacing was slow, especially with the different perspective shifts, and I felt like there wasn't a lot going on. My feedback on book 1 (The Aspect of Essence) was wishing there had been a more major cliffhanger, and I think that was partially my issue—we didn't pick up on a high note.
THEN the second half of the book hit, which is where my higher rating comes from. The pacing was so much faster with the new setting, characters, love interest, spice, and action. I'm also SO happy that this book has a stronger cliffhanger than book 1. I'll definitely be continuing this series due to the second half of this book!
I struggled through the first half of this book—the pacing was slow, especially with the different perspective shifts, and I felt like there wasn't a lot going on. My feedback on book 1 (The Aspect of Essence) was wishing there had been a more major cliffhanger, and I think that was partially my issue—we didn't pick up on a high note.
THEN the second half of the book hit, which is where my higher rating comes from. The pacing was so much faster with the new setting, characters, love interest, spice, and action. I'm also SO happy that this book has a stronger cliffhanger than book 1. I'll definitely be continuing this series due to the second half of this book!
July 31, 2024
If you hear unfathomable screaming out in the cosmos, it’s just me. The gasps I have gusped!! The incessant flips my poor heart has done. I am once again rendered speechless. It’s gonna take me a few days to process this and write a coherent review. But holy shit.
October 22, 2024
i have to wait until JULY?? this book was sooo good. the plot escalated so well, cliffhanger is brutal, the relationships are messy and honest, the character growth ugh chefs kiss. so bummed i don’t get to continue with these characters for so long
October 26, 2024
⭐️2.5
Once again everything exciting happening in the last 15%
It’s justtttt 🤏🏼 interesting enough that I kept reading but maybe it’s because this one was under 400 pages
Serenna is SO ANNOYING but thankfully Jassyn got more bearable half way through this book
Once again everything exciting happening in the last 15%
It’s justtttt 🤏🏼 interesting enough that I kept reading but maybe it’s because this one was under 400 pages
Serenna is SO ANNOYING but thankfully Jassyn got more bearable half way through this book
July 24, 2024
WHY DID YOU DO THIS TO ME
Read
December 21, 2025Got 80 pages in and the main love interest gave me the ick.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 442 reviews