The Wings of Shattered Fire

by Laura Winter

The Night Terror assassin: betrayed, captured, broken.

Brela once believed she would never lose hope in a world hells-bent on her destruction, but now she’s not sure what’s left for her. Trapped in the dungeons of her enemy, she will never give up her people, her friends, her family—no matter what it costs her.

Cason Valkip is a changed man, and he’s determined to prove it by rescuing Brela from the clutches of his former king. But the woman he finds is not the same one who was taken. Left shattered when the Veil shard is removed from her collarbone, she’s going to need more than just her training to survive. Something has been forged in the darkness within her… something more powerful than anyone could have imagined.

Together, the dragon and the shadow wolf might just set the forest on fire.

Amidst political games and mysterious magic, Brela’s friends are determined to help her find her people again, even if it means going their separate ways. But old magic is stirring, and it’s going to take more than just the magic-blessed misfits to face the inevitable.

The Veil between shadow hell and the kingdoms has fractured, and no one is prepared for what steps through.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy

748 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 30, 2023

About the author

Laura Winter is a passionate creator, minimalist, and van life dreamer. She's dedicated to writing character-driven stories with intricate plots that will keep you engaged until the last page. Explore new worlds, fall in love with characters, and enjoy an escape.

You can join her community at https://sendfox.com/laurawinter and never miss a new publication.

Reviews

[Danielle Savoye · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hits right in the feels!!!!

Getting to know the highly successful assassin who forges family in the least likely location in The Curse of Broken Shadows…and delving deeper with The Bones of Crystal Sand…to this absolute firestorm which refines and leaves no doubt of the purity of Brela’s relationships especially with herself and her dragon (Cason...I won’t mention the others right now but mind boggling with them too) I couldn’t turn away from the figurative train-wreck at the beginning. Then I was trapped watching the fearsome struggle to overcome the wounds of her life thus far and stunned by the absolutely sadistic twist of an ending. All that enthralling journey with a dose of fantastic romance…More please 🥹!!!!

[Alyssa | catsandbookstacks]

*I am Laura Winter's PA and I adored Wings during the beta stage.*

LAURA! My heart! You hurt it and put it back together again. The sequel to The Curse of Broken Shadows brings both darkness, secrets, hope and joy. Though the path is fraught with trauma and grief, there is a bright light that shines through. Brela, Elias, Farrah, Serill, and Cason are back at it making smart stupid decisions and ready to set the forest on fire. Curse is for laying down the groundwork for characters... Wings is for growth, fun and reveals.

I just adore these characters. Their growth from book one is immense and beautiful. I love a longer payoff for a series where each character has a chance to really breathe and explore. The sweet moments are just precious, the badassery flies off the page and the steamy scenes are hot! There is an MMF scene and it just felt so right for the characters.

Once again, this book is epic in scale with multiple locations but the group also splits off here in order to uncover/discover plots amongst political machinations. More loveable characters are added - more Yivi please! Izette, Corinne, Wyatt and Arlon (plus the "we can't keep it" companion) add great dynamics to the main cast.

I have so many favourite scenes (the moon temple pools!, the dancing), as well as chapter titles:
The Assassin With Semi-Intact Morals - basically the vibe for the entire series
Revenge is not Morally Grey - debatable

While chapters are long, the POV switching keeps it fresh and I enjoyed having a couple secondary characters get their own scenes. This helps to make sure we're seeing the bigger picture beyond the MCs, but also more insight into the pasts and choices.

You can tell Laura writes these characters from the heart!

Book two is also a chunky read, but you best pick up this series if you enjoy longer character driven fantasy reads containing fabulous flirting with knives, assassins, and secrets.

Series CW (none by MCs): sexism, abandonment, rape (mentioned), sexual assault (mentioned & attempt) physical & emotional child abuse (mentioned), PTSD & trauma, blood & injury depiction, grief & loss depiction, death of a parent, murder, genocide, torture, kidnapping, fire, Stockholm syndrome, sexual content (consensual), and MMF content

[Kellie Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Amazing! I loved this book. Full review to follow. I need a moment to process.

After processing:

I loved this book, but it is the second book in the series, third if you count The Bones of Crystal Sand, a collection of short stories that tell the back stories that preceded The Curse of Broken Shadows. This review is written assuming that you have read The Curse of Broken Shadows. If not, perhaps you might want to read it before continuing on with this review. There are also minor spoilers for The Wings of Shattered Fire.

We knew that Brela was in for a rough time at the end of The Curse of Broken Shadows. All I can say is wow! All the characters in the cast continue to grow and amaze us with the depth of their commitment to each other but Brela far outshines them all.

After establishing just how dire Brela’s situation is, we check in to see how Farah and Elias have been coping with the situation. They have been keeping the orphanage running but when Cason and Serill show up to plot how they are going to attempt to rescue Brela they have to decide whether to trust Cason. Cason’s contrition and Serill’s arguments for giving Cason another chance leads to Farrah going with Serill and Cason and Elias going to free Brela from captivity.

The two groups face separate challenges that serve to prepare them for the ultimate task of finding the Veil Worshipers. Eventually they are reunited having developed the skills necessary to achieve their goals. All along there is plenty of feisty flirting, thrilling fights with swords and magic, and discovery of some of the secrets that have been kept from them all.

Although the end of this story was satisfying, it left me dying for the next volume, The Crown of Fractured Darkness, to come out. Don’t wait to read this one though so you’ll be ready for what is undoubtably going to be the thrilling conclusion of this story.

[Thebookimburiedin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two so if you haven’t read the first, do it! I was gifted this book for an honest review.

These are the characters that you think about constantly and miss when you finish the book. It’s so well written and has so many moments that just make me feel, I swear I’ve hi-lighted half the book. Which, I also did in the first book, so clearly I just love the authors writing that much. Definitely need to buy the physical books as I need the trophy’s!
Spoilers ahead so don’t read if you haven’t read the book…



We’re continuing on the storyline of Brela, Elias, Farrah, Cason, and Serril. Brela has been captured after Cason royally screws everything up with prejudices that were ingrained, basically since birth. While our found family may not be together we get to follow all their lives. Farrah and Serril realizing how much love they have for each other. Brela found by Cason and Elias, completely broken physically and mentally has to rebuild her mind and body while discovering how to wield her newly discovered powers. I’m not anshamed to wish that Cason killed Era. What a nasty person. And Brela continues to be the person I want to be. Full of love and forgiveness and strength. So many tears and so many giggles in this book. I will always think of my man Elias lovingly as Earth Idiot now. Thank you for the amazing read and the journey I got to take with this beautiful poly family! We love a found family because, “Family is forged, not by blood, but by love.” (Cason to Brela in chapter 25)

[Bekah Jackson (lit.spo) · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVE IT! The first words out of my mouth when asked about this series. Book 1 was fantastic, and the sequel certainly did not disappoint. I've already gushed about how much I love these characters and their comradery. I feel that was even more enhanced in this book and I was so here for it. I was really pleased we got more of Farrah in this story, not only because her backstory is compelling, but she is such a badass as well. It was nice to see her come into her own even more this time around. The relationships throughout this sequel were fantastic. The author did not hold back at all, which I am grateful for. The action, like in the last, was incredible. I still love the ATLA vibes with all the benders. There is so much more I could go on about regarding things I enjoyed with the plot, but I am trying to refrain from leaving spoilers before this book comes out later this week. I will say the end was insane and I truly believe the last book of this series is going to be mind-blowing based on the set up. Absolutely cannot wait for it! Would really like to thank the author for allowing me to be an ARC reader and for allowing me to reach out to talk about the story after finishing because I was in desperate need to discuss it with someone! Everyone, please read this book and this series!!

[Danielle Kida · Rating 5 out of 5]

I devoured the first book in this series, and this was no different! I think these characters are written really well and really fleshed out by the author. The religion/magic system has a similar feel to D&D clerics/paladins, which I really enjoy. The world building in this series is absolutely amazing and the lore that was revealed in this book was completely unexpected but executed so well! My jaw was already on the floor with that but then THE CLIFFHANGER. I can’t wait to see where this goes!

[MaKayla Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I loved the first one when I read it, and I love this one too. It's got a much darker vibe than the first one. We find our characters in a dark place, but we get to see them rise out of it. It's a beautiful adventure. I can't wait for the next book!!

[Marit · Rating 5 out of 5]

HUH?!
So much happened in this book, from crying my eyes out to giggling my feet hehehehe

[Leah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book truly had me kicking and screaming the entire time. I was initially skeptical (again) about how many povs there are, that's usually something I really don't enjoy, but wow did it add to the story. Instead of dreading a particular POV I couldn't decide who I wanted to read more about. The author does a fantastic job of really getting you invested in every moment. I mean, how could you not be with the baddass empathetic genius thats Brela.

What really stuck out to me in particular was Brela and Cason's journey in healing themselves. I have been burned so many times before by something "traumatic" happening to a character and them moving on from it wayyyyyy too fast like nothing happened (a big pet peeve of mine) but this is so not the case here. The author gives them time to truly heal and process everything they are feeling in a way that feels real and actually relatable to me as the reader.

I don't think I have a bad thing to say about this book besides somehow I thought this was a duology and I am dying inside waiting for the third book.

[Linnea Schroeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Captured and tortured, Brela is holding on for reasons not even she can articulate. Her friends are scattered across the kingdoms, planning what feels like an impossible rescue mission, but they need to hurry - and not just for Brela’s sake. The wall is starting to crack.

I feel like we waited an eternity for this book and it was worth it. Winter did a great job of evolving emotions throughout the book, which I also felt was a strength of her last book too. Coming back to these characters after so long felt awesome, especially since they were fleshed out even further. Unfortunately if I thought the last cliffhanger was bad, I had no idea what was waiting for me…book 3 is too far away!

Content warnings: violence, gore, domestic abuse, verbal abuse, graphic sexual violence, explicit sexual content, language, pedophilia, self-harm, attempted suicide, genocide

[MummysVampire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent, marvellous, magical, moving, masterpiece, memorable, miraculous and merciless.

Omg what a rollercoaster of a story!! This is the second book in the Smoke and Shadows trilogy by the amazing Laura Winter.

We pick up right where The Curse of Broken Shadows left us. Now if you haven’t read that, you absolutely must. For a start this is a continuing story which I had the pleasure of reading back in 2021. I started my review back then in the same way, but using my thoughts on the book starting with the letter I. You will 💯 understand my need to do this when you have read both books. Let me give you a hint, it’s a form of flirting between the main characters. That along with dagger/knife flirting which sounds nuts, but it’s strangely beautiful and funny. You will find yourself reading with a big grin on your face.

I’m not going to go into the contents of the story as I would be terrified of giving away spoilers. What I will say is it had everything. It’s really really dark with torture that made me cry. But it was also mesmerising (ha ha another M) as what Brela went through, and ‘then’ how she picks her self back up is a miracle. Really can’t stop with the M words. I’m just a tad excited as this was one of these reads that deserves more than a 5/5! It makes me wish there were a special mark for a truly special book which this was and more.

A note to Laura Winter - I did read the last line again! And again and again. Bravo! That was an epic end to this chapter and I can’t wait for the 3rd and final chapter. The first 2 books honestly hold a special place in my heart. Thank you.

[Beba Andric · Rating 5 out of 5]

What outstanding storytelling! What a complex story! What an intricate plot! What an incredible world! What amazing characters! The combination of all of this, plus the high amount of tension and drama, the unique magic and intense action that threatened to slay me, culminates into an unparalleled read! I had already tucked this series amongst my favourites but this book simply blew me away, in fact, it blew the lid right off my expectations as I writhed and wept at each trauma they all endure, as I sympathised with each character, as I felt them in the very depths of my being.

So many wonderful characters, I don't even know where to begin! Not only characters I'm already familiar and in love with but new, pertinent, sassy and unapologetically awesome characters! Corrine, in all her blindness, sees; Izette, a Princess who is more than what one sees at face value; just to name two new delightful characters. And then there's Yivi is pure delight! She's so full of exuberance and joy and she definitely likes to push the boundaries! I loved her uncomplicated and warm relationship with Serill, siblings cut from the same cloth, their other two siblings... not so much. Actually, Aucia and Colyne were cut from from the soiled remnants of said cloth...

The familiar and much loved by me characters, Elias who is incredible! His love for Brela and Farrah knows no bounds, he's the most unselfish character I've come across, his impressive strength is not only physical, but of a deeply caring, loving and protective nature too. Serril, well he's just darling! Under that very thick heavy layer of a facade he's erected, there's a man who's incredibly smart, he's markedly cunning and delightfully charming, Farrah's words, not mine but geesh, they couldn't be more apt! And Cason, Cason who messed up BIG time in the previous book with Brela but his love for her never waivered, he was just lost in his own despair of his uncalled for reaction. But he would go to the ends of the world, put himself at any risk to keep Brela safe. Even though he failed miserably, he did the unthinkable and even more amazingly, he succeeded. Sooooo, although Serill has been my firm favourite throughout this series, I HAD to place Cason alongside him, you'll get it once you've read this book....As Brela said "You didn't give up on me, you were just there" And he was, in spirit when not physically. Brela, oh my goodness, this character had my stomach in knots for most of the book, SO much happens to her, she has SO much to deal with, to overcome and only the support of her family, of Cason brought her out of her nightmare. A whoop of joy escaped me when Brela finally overcame her uncertainty and allowed her magic the RIGHT to be! The rawness of their emotions, the rawness of pain, all dispelled, or rather, put aside in the intensity of the love these characters experienced, and I with them. Watching them come together, watching their relationships solidify, watching the love wrap around them, like a warm duvet on a chilly night, was without question comforting, heart warming and some of my favourite scenes in this splendid book.The author captured it ALL, every gory detail, every glorious detail, in a read I COULDN'T put down, in a world more magical than I could envisage, in a pacing that was heavenly. There were more twists than the most complex of mazes, until I was finally let out, panting, not believing THAT twist at the end! OMG!

This is a story of bias, a story of massive cruelty, a story of the most horrendous torture, a story of good gentle souls, slowly exposing their truth and their revilment at the atrocities they've born witness to, a story of new beginnings, of setting things right....but most importantly, a story of love and the lengths one would go to for the one they love, for the friends they have. The author gives her FMC's something special, they're completely "human" they're tough and strong and determined, they're vulnerable and unsecure and emotional, so utterly REAL! For those who haven't had the fortune to have read any of Laura Winter's books, ARE MISSING OUT! Missing out on exceptionality so uniquely crafted, a plot that will leave you in tatters and a dire need for MORE!!!

[Cheyenne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an experience, and I enjoyed every second of it. I’m surprised it is not discussed enough, so I will write my thoughts. The thick, riveting plot, the phenomenal character arcs, the descriptions of action scenes, flashbacks, trauma—all of it, was absolutely brilliant.

”The next time this blade is in my hands, it’ll be because you’ve offered me your hand again.”

I didn’t doubt how the relationship would survive, let alone withstand the ending of the first book. The lengths Cason went to atone for his mistakes, and the way he cared for not only Brela, but the people Brela cares for was beautiful.

”… You are a goddess among mortals, Farr, and you are very much my strength.”

Serill and Farrah give everything they’re meant to give 🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽 I feel like this book only solidifies the connection between the characters, and exaggerates how amazing they are while remaining true to each of their personalities. Every scene with Elias had me wondering what was going to come out of his mouth next. I also could not get over: “… sipping calmly from his tankard as if he hadn’t squealed in excitement like a little girl at the sight of a fucking dragon following Cason down the mountain.”

I truly enjoyed this and the ending had me so hyped for what will come next. Brela constantly proves to be an incredibly selfless, ambitious, tenacious, and unwavering character ( ”Family is forged, and they are mine.” )and I’m hooked on what this twist will bring!!

[Shwetha Zacharias · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been a long time since I’ve been this invested in a fantasy series. I started reading this series because I wanted to read a book featuring a psychotic badass female protagonist and Brela did not disappoint. Smoke and Shadows series exceeded all my expectations and got me to read two books having more than 700 pages back to back which is a feat in itself. The themes of friendship and love in the book has made me envious of Brela because of how strongly her forged family love her.

Brela embodies her titles Night Terror, Empress of Chaos, Nightmares and Death in an unapologetic manner that is not seen in books lately. I love that she had no regrets about being the Night Terror and proceeds to tear apart her enemies without a second thought. I love female main characters that are crazy, has a sailor’s mouth, a certified badass and doesn’t take shit from anyone. Brela has my heart.

The cliffhanger in this book left me speechless. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that while others were close to pissing themselves in front of Ryia, Brela curses her out and threatens to tear out her entrails. Classic Brela, Respect. I hope the next book comes out soon cause I cannot wait to read the finale of Brela’s adventure. Will be watching out for you Laura Winter! Keep up the great work!!<3

[TaniaRina · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Let it burn’
There’s a cleansing aspect to the flames which allows the true healing to begin.

In addition to really enjoying this quest tale, my main takeaway is the strong bonds that are formed, morphed, and embraced ever so tightly. Seek out those who “see you” – they’re the ones who’ll have your back. Acquaintances, co-workers, family members, friends, neighbors, or romantic partners - at home or work, we all need someone to “watch our six”. Sometimes, *we* are that someone, so don’t underestimate your value nor the positive impact you have on others.
Seek companions in various stations and with different backgrounds from you. The best friendships can be found in the least-expected places.


Set up a feast, bring out the good wine, then go ‘round spinning yarns worthy of bards in a king’s hall.

Get good and relaxed as we wait to find out what the Goddesses of the earth, moon, shadows, and sun have in store for our crew in the upcoming ‘The Crown of Fractured Darkness’.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreaking

This book will hit you right in all of the feels. The things Brela suffers are horrific and I genuinely couldn't get over her resilience. Cason has some grovelling to do (some - aka A LOT ) and I love how Elias has Brelas back and talks some sense into him.

Friendship is such an important part of the storyline and I love Farrah, Elias and Brelas unwavering friendship. But I also love how Serill and Cason begin to make their way into the fold. Serill is an absolute sweetheart.

More of the story unfolds and I genuinely did not know what was going to happen next. I loved every second of it and couldn't put it down.

[Brie Fogle · Rating 5 out of 5]

AINT NO WAY YOU JUST DID ME LIKE THAT!!!!

I had a sneaking suspicion that there was a twist to who she was, but I did not guess what was on the other side of the wall. Omgggggg.

I cannot get over this series. At times I was worried it was going to fall into common romantasy pitfalls, but every time I ended up pleasantly surprised.

Ugh, I love the characters. Cason is everything Chaol could never be. I’d honestly fight to the death for literally every character in this book!

What an epic tale of growth, love, & family with some of my favorite romance ever 🔥❣️😭

[Amberlynne O'Shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG, this book!!!! It was so good! I admit, I was very excited to see the relationship with Farrah and Serill. I had been eager to see if something would happen between them since the first book, and I was not disappointed. But the real star of this book was Cason! Watching him grow and change was amazing and so rewarding! I think I fully fell in love with him in this book! I am very eager to read the last two books and see what happens next!

[andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

one very specific scene had me SWEATING at the gym, sitting on the bike, not moving the pedals, because I was so glued to the screen. salivation nation reporting for duty.

also this entire series is just so fantastic, but I gotta say that it should’ve been me in that cabin. I deserve it.

[Sydney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rival to my favorite Throne of Glass series. Loved every second of it 💜

[Vice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two word review: knife flirting.

(More: A+ What an effing delight, no notes. Also some --one-- very delicious scenes that I was 1000% into, yes please thank you more of that in our lives. I continue to really enjoy the friendships and this journey.)

[Kristina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed this follow up to The Curse of Broken Shadows by Laura Winter. I loved seeing the characters again and getting so many answers to my questions. Excited to find out what will happen next.

[Inilboh · Rating 5 out of 5]

I left a lengthy review for TCOBS that covered a lot of my feelings for the first book as well as this one, but I need to say thank you to Laura for actually allowing Cason to rescue Brela. Many of the stories I've read try to reinforce how badass the FMC is by always being the one to rescue themselves (often while the MMC is attempting to rescue them). There is nothing wrong with that approach, but at the same time, being rescued doesn't make Brela any less of a badass. It does, however, allow for a different kind of character and relationship growth. Plus she deserves to be the one rescued for once, dammit! And my gods is my heart happy that she was rescued by her qigri <3

So, thank you Laura. Thank you for writing such a uniquely inspiring character that constantly reminds me that there is strength in vulnerability, and of the impact that vulnerability can have on those around us. Brela's beautiful heart is something I truly cherish. She may be the main character, but her heart allows the story arcs of those around her to shine in a way I don't think I've seen or felt before.

[Avra Blake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Here’s a few reasons to read this book
- Serill, our favorite cinnamon roll prince, absolutely shines in this book (as usual). We get to see him be a bit feral too and that’s fun.
- Our dear main character Brela goes Through It. Not gonna lie this part was a little dark for my tastes (I’m a wimp don’t judge me) but seeing her build herself back up made it totally worth it.
- We get to learn so much more about the magic and gods of this world. Loved seeing more of the worldbuilding and learning some pretty shocking secrets.

There are so many more things I could list (especially about Serill). If you like your Epic Romantasy books SPICY with really well developed, lovable characters then you need to check out this series.

This book is long! But you’ll hardly notice because you’ll eagerly be turning every page to find out what happens next, and in the end you’ll wish you could keep reading (good thing you can already pick up the next installment in the series: The Blade of Severed Bonds).