Sea of Secrets: The Nymph Challenge

On Wings of Ash and Dust (Episodes 1-6) #3

by Brittany Wang

Quinn is back at sea—but this time, it’s dripping with secrets. After barely surviving the first trial in the Ethodine, Quinn wrestles with new mysteries as she enters the underwater world of the Nymphs—Aeron’s domain. As she prepares for the next perilous trial, Quinn struggles to keep her distance from Aeron and his gorgeous bride-to-be while also desperate to solve countless How is the ancient tome Hickory stole connected with her nightmares? Did Vale really have a romantic past with Aeron? And what is hiding behind Alys’ cold demeanor? It’s only at the Nymph’s underwater masquerade that dark secrets finally begin to unravel. But without a talent to impress the Trial of Beauty’s vicious judge, solving other mysteries might be the least of Quinn’s worries. Sea of Secrets is the third Book in the On Wings of Ash and Dust series. If you like magical trials, underwater masquerades, court intrigue, and enemies-to-lovers romance, then you'll love this next installment of Brittany Wang's whimsical and dangerous tale. Buy Sea of Secrets to continue this epic adventure today! All books in the Series are available Book 1: Wings of Betrayal
Book 2: Palace of Potions
Book 3: Sea of Secrets
Book 4: Forest of Blood
Book 5: Cavern of Terrors
Book 6: Edge of Fates

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Young Adult

140 pages, Paperback

First published August 31, 2021

About the author

Brittany Wang is the author of the young adult fantasy serial series, On Wings of Ash and Dust.

She is also a YouTuber and Author Website Designer who is passionate about helping writers finish their novels, find writing community, & build a platform that grows their readership.

CONNECT WITH BRITTANY:
https://www.authorbrittanywang.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorbritt...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/authorbrittan...
Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/authorbrittan...

Reviews

[Janine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sea of Secrets is the third episode in the On Wings of Ash and Dust serial by Brittany Wang, and I’m continuing to enjoy this ride as we continue on with the story with a large main cast that isn’t getting lost in the shuffle, and the main story starting to reveal itself at the halfway point of the overall story arc with a few hints throughout. This episode started a bit rushed, as it felt like we just get thrusted to the underwater city without too much of a transition, but after the first chapter or so, things go at a steady pace. I was really in love with the city, though I think there could have been a bit more detail in some parts. Each of the main competitors get some extra development, especially Aeron and Hickory, and I do like the bond Quinn is building with Aeron. The trial was done in an interesting manner and I was surprised in several of the contestants actions during it. That cliffhanger has me itching for more, especially once I found out where the next setting will be!

*I received an ARC from the author. All opinions are my own.*

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

5/5 stars

I received an ARC of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

Spoilers for episodes 1 and 2 ahead!

Wow, this episode went by fast! I sincerely hope this serial gets a TV series someday! The action doesn't slow down at all, and it was such an exciting read! A masquerade ball and another deadly challenge are only a few of Quinn's problems. As more and more secrets rise to the surface, Quinn is left with more questions than answers. I love the romance that is slowly starting to take shape! I'm very curious about some of the information revealed in this episode! I reached the end of this episode way too fast! The cliffhanger once again has me desperate to get my hands on episode 4!

I highly recommend reading this serial! I'm looking forward to uncovering more of this spectacular world in the next episode!

[Faith Noelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

So...I finished this one in a couple of hours. I didn't even realize how fast I was breezing through it until there was no more (and of course we ended on a cliffhanger leaving me wanting more!). I think Sea of Secrets might be my favorite episode so far. Things are getting good, with many secrets starting to get revealed, but many new questions appearing without answers. If you enjoyed this first two episodes, you'll enjoy this one. It's cool to see Brittany's interpretation of an underwater world, and the Nymph trial is even more exciting than the last one. Alright, now it's time for episode 4!!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute page-turner! I fall in love with the world and the characters with every page! I've gained even more respect for the heirs as they compete. The trial with that "vicious judge" was amazing and gripping. I sympathized with Alys 100% when she saw the Leviathan and it came her turn. And now Quinn has more of a mystery to solve with her visions. I love it!

This is an ARC review. All opinions are my own.

[Martin A. Marquez Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 3rd episode of On Wings of ash and dust, Sea of secrets: the Nymph challenge, has a marvelous climax and huge cliff hanger at the end. With loads of action, adventure and drama, this episode seems like it might be the crux of the overall story line to all 6 episodes. I can’t wait to read the next one. There is no turning back now. My life would be over as we know it if I couldn’t finish the second half of the episodes, 4-6. The arc of each episode and the arc of the full story are entwined perfectly. If I didn’t know this was Brittany’s debut story I would think she has been writing and publishing for a life time. I haven’t felt this way since finishing Keeper by Kim Chance waiting so desperately to read Seeker. I’m literally in tears knowing I have to wait another couple weeks before reading the next episode. It’s like when I start watching the Canadian tv show, Heartland, even though I’ve seen in like 10 times, each episode has me on my toes and wanting more. It’s enchanting and makes you fall in love. I literally teleport myself into the world and can see, hear, taste, feel, and smell the story like I’m not reading it but living it. I can’t be more proud of this newly published author, Brittany Wang. May you have a lifetime of success as an author.

[Ashley Zuck · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.

I honestly loved it. You are pulled into the mystery of Quinn’s nightmares and now she has someone to talk to. All the while the Ethodine continues and this trial is all about beauty and talents. It’s a high stakes trial yet again, their lives are on the line.

While Quinn continues to walk out a deal she made with the Queen, she also reveals little prices of herself along the way. Stepping in the save Aeron and his mother in the simplest of ways, but immediately stepping away so she can’t be thanked. I love this side of her! Compassionate yet not wanting recognition for her actions.

You get the opportunity to learn more of Aeron and his past, immediately connecting to him, grieving for him and rooting for the small spark burning between him and Quinn.

Vale continues to surprise me! What does she truly want? To please her mother? The crown? She is a mystery and a bit naive in the real world which gives me a little sympathy for her.

You get to know Hickory and Alys a touch more. I’m so drawn to both of these intriguing characters! I’m looking forward to the next trial!

Brittany sweeps you through this story with vivid details and riveting twists. Every page has something that draws you further into the story!

Again the ending is that beloved cliffhanger! Brutal yet magically done! I’m definitely looking forward the episode 4!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Not like my opinion matters, but I don’t think you should have to change who you are for anyone. Especially for someone like Nile. You should stand up for what you believe in. Be yourself.”

“Easy for you to say. You don’t care what anybody thinks of you.” At first his words sound like a jab, but when he turns to me, his eyes are soft. “I kind of admire that.”

Brittany continues her streak of portraying absolutely pure beauty with her words all with a fun back drop while touring the different provinces in her world!

Again one of the things that I adore with her storytelling is picking up almost exactly where the last episode left off, the only time gap was while our fellow contestants were traveling from one place to the next. I also couldn’t help but be awe by her vivid descriptions and lifelike characters and scenery.

This series and these books have a little of something for everyone. If you like competition… this book has it. If you like hints of romance with potential… this boom has it. If you like unlikely crews… this book has it. Tense relationships with parents… this book has it. And so much more!

Episode three officially marks the half way point of this series and challenge number two for the competition! And friendships are developing! I’m loving the ability to devour these books and I can’t wait what’s in store are we head to the home of the dryads! Do yourself a favour and pick up this series!!!

[Madeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

The third episode fit in nicely with the other two. While the first episode focused more on backstory and the second introducing characters and the world, I felt like this episode finally started to get a bit deeper, just at the right time.

It was really fun to see the contrast of another clans home, and the cool worldbuilding around it. I would have loved to see more of this undersea world but that's not surprising for a book that jumps around to different locations. The main character, Quinn, doesn't have time to get settled in anywhere and neither does the reader, we are kept on our toes.

I really enjoyed the group dynamics that are evolving with the different characters and cannot wait to see what happens in the next episode!

This series is still a feisty and delightful YA fantasy.

I received an ARC of this book so that I could leave an advanced review. My thoughts are my own.

[Ara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was particularly excited for this one as soon as I found out the title because I love the ocean and stories set in the water. Sea of Secrets certainly lived up to my hopes! 😃

Brittany's beautiful descriptions of the water castle, the city, and how the Nymph Fae live had me enchanted. It reminded me of Atlantis 😁

We get some answers in this book and even more questions that I can't wait to have answered!!  

There was a little saying we have that she modified to fae which I loved as a small immersive detail. And the judge - wow!!! I did not see that coming. It gave us an even deeper glimpse into the world which I love!

Also, I'm not a romance person but I'm really enjoying this developing relationship between a couple of the characters ;)

A third fantastic story about our favourite Fairie Pirate!

This is an ARC review. All opinions are my own.

[Holly Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brittany does it again in Episode 3! Fast paced and chock full of action, I was kept on the edge of my seat at the plot both before, during, and after the Nymph challenge. The romance progresses at a natural and realistic pace, and the drama is showstopping! I'm at awe of how smoothly each subplot weaves through each other and how well the worldbuilding is fleshed out yet again in this immersive and immense world. I can't wait for the next installment!

[Heather Venkat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow wow wow! This series keeps getting better and better! (Which feels impossible but it's true!) I am so impressed with every unique world as well as everything that comes along with the worlds. And I'd have to say this may be my fave so far!
(I read an advanced reader copy and am voluntarily leaving this review)

[Renee Dugan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best of the bunch so far! This installment definitely takes things up a notch in all departments - worldbuilding, lore, romance, intrigue, characterization, just everything! It's gonna be torture waiting two weeks for the next episode!

[Kayleigh Idea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer: I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I loved learning more about the world of Faylan in Sea of Secrets. With each episode, we travel to another part of the world and I love it! The Sylph land might be my favorite far.

The writing was amazing as always with the descriptions were.

I’m starting to like Quinn more, which had been one of my qualms with the previous episodes. She’s clever, and I’m excited to keep learning more about her.

The character dynamics and relationships are so fun to watch play out.

It was really satisfying to finally learn what ‘On Wings of Ash and Dust’ means. It was very cleverly done.

I loved learning more about Aeron’s a backstory and family and watching their relationship progress.

However, the romance in this episode felt a little cringy and cliche (specifically the part where one of the love interest’s already has a betrothed).

My last critique is that the dialogue was a little stilted. But I’m still looking forward to episode 4!

[Tvisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

It gets better, bigger and bolder with every episode. The pacing is top-notch. I glided through the pages without noticing the time. The author waves the central theme every nicey in the episode. With growing romance and friendship the loose threads are coming together for a bigger adventure. Loved it

[Miranda Sylvester · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a lot of anticipation for this one, and it fulfilled it so well. This one is my favourite so far. So much pain was involved while reading this. Also wonder. (Full review to come.)

[Mandi Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly addicting!

I honestly wish I had more time to read these episodes faster! This trial has been my favorite so far, but I can’t wait to see what’s coming next!

[C.J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I received an ARC, and I’m voluntarily writing a review. All thoughts are my own.

This is the third episode in the On Wings of Ash amd Dust Serial. I’ll be honest, this one took me longer to get into. I read episode two in about 12 hours whereas this one I read in smaller spurts over about 3-5 days. It was a good story with compelling characters but i just couldn’t get into it as fast. Until, that is, I got to chapter 6 or so. Then I couldn’t put it down! So if you’re like me and a little hesitant at the beginning of the book, trust me, keep going! It gets awesome by the end and the trial was my favorite so far. Without spoilers I’ll say I thought Brittany’s twist on a standard talent competition was so unexpected and clever and made things a lot more fun.

If I had to give one critique, not the biggest fan of the Prophecy plotline because I see it so often in YA but I’m intrigued enough by the world, lore, competition and brewing romance that I definitely want to keep going! I’m REALLY looking forward to the dryad challenge in book 4 since Alys is my favorite character so far.

[Tessy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh gosh! Talk about books that only get better and better as they progress. From the first book in this series, I have fallen in love with the way Brittany has crafted her Faerie world and all the characters. This one is no different.

If you've been following along, you'll know we're in Aeron's territory in this book. And it is a beautiful and twisty world he lives in. If you've been wondering about Aeron and all the secrets that lie in his story, you're not going to want to miss this episode. It answered so many questions in the best way possible.

And speaking of questions, we're still following Quinn in this book and her story just gets more interesting with every book. There's always more danger and questions around the corner. I have genuinely loved seeing her character ARC unfold in this story and I think you will too.

So, if you haven't picked up these books I highly recommend you do so. Solid 5 out of 5 stars from me.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

OH MY GOSH. The Nymph Challenge did not disappoint.

Brittany did a fantastic job of world building the underwater palace. I loved getting more insight into Aeron and his family (poor mom!). And the water scene between Aeron and Quinn is so cute. Brittany is doing a great job of keeping them apart haha.

Holy cow that challenge and the judge! So so good! It had me on the edge of my seat for every contestant and had me rooting for one in particular.

I love that Hickory and Quinn connected on a certain something and that they're not working together. I really like their friendship dynamic.

I'm still curious about Alys and can't wait to read more about her in book 4!
I once again have more questions than answers and am antsy to read the rest of the series!

If you haven't picked this series up yet- do so! The episodes are short, engaging, fast paced, and perfect for fantasy lovers!

[Kylie MacDougall · Rating 5 out of 5]

These episodes keep getting better and better! I LOVED the competition in this one. We’re getting to know the characters a lot more by this point (Alys is my favourite) and seeing what’s important to them and what their struggles are. I’m deeply invested in this competition and don’t totally know who to cheer for. They are all so great in their own way! Brittany has written such a well rounded story with well-developed characters and an exciting story line with mysteries yet to be revealed. Looking forward to episode 4!!

[Rebecca Garoffolo · Rating 5 out of 5]

It just keeps getting better! I am so hooked on this series, it’s crazy. As someone who rarely read fiction, I was shocked at how quickly I connected to the characters – especially Quinn. Sea of Secrets held all the adventure I was hoping for as the third book in the series. The visuals continue to capture me and make me feel as though I am in the land of Faylan watching each scene play out. And boy oh boy, things are certainly heating up. I cannot wait for the next episode to come out. This is a MUST READ!

[Alli Earnest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great installment to the On Wings of Ash and Dust series!

I don’t mean to keep harping on the same points in each of my reviews, but Wang continues to show her skills with character development and world building. I like that in this episode, Sea of Secrets, we get to see yet another part of Faylan—under the sea. The setting doesn’t feel contrived from other tales, and I like the little nuances that fit in with this unique faerie world!

I also particularly love the challenge in this episode. It kept me on the edge of my seat!

(This is an ARC review. All opinions are my own.)

[Lacon · Rating 3 out of 5]

It feels weird to rate this when I know the story isn’t over (like rating each chapter in a book) so while i’m still not absolutely in love with this story I am definitely intrigued and need to finish this serial to know what happens. I’m excited to learn more about the secrets and the magic as it gets revealed. As well as I was genuinely surprised when the kraken came onto the stage it definitely added a fun and deadly twist your typical talent show, even though a lot of the other things that happened were predictable (doesn’t mean bad) The underwater kingdom is definitely some place I would live to explore in real life if given the possibility.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quinn finds out more about the person she's falling for. He has the ability to make people do what he wants but only weak minded people and doesn't work on her. She also finds out his father can do this. This trial takes place in his land in which he sees his father is not a good guy and uses his power on his mother. This trial they must show a talent. The queen is helping Quinn, and a little jealous is showing from her daughter even though her talent is singing and she is one of the best.

[Dania Dorat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series so far is super amazing. I really enjoy the world building as Quinn enters the underwater kingdom. Brittany has done an amazing job making feel super immerse inside the world. It was super fun to read. I also learn so much about the other characters. I really enjoy the little moment the Quinn had with Aeron, Hickory and Alys. I can’t wait for the next episode.

[Courtney Corboy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The further we go, the more we learn. I love how we see how these characters grow as the challenge goes on. I couldn't put the story down. My favorite part is the worldbuilding. When the characters step through the barrier, I held my breath. I felt I stepped into Aeron's homeland. I look forward to what comes next.

[Lorrie (Clockworkbookworm) · Rating 4 out of 5]

2024 Reads #628/250
3.75🌟

Read for the Sights of Sweden Challenge 2024-2025
September 20, 2024 - January 10, 2025

Online Availability:
📖 Kindle Unlimited Subscription/$
🎧 Audible $/Credit

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just like the first two, this covers and individual challenge and the preparation leading up to it. Despite being so short, it really gives you a full view of each court involved in this far realm. The underwater city of the nymphs was really cool, and I loved their travel system.

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably my favorite so far! The challenge was super interesting and we're really getting to know the contestants on a more personal level. I absolutely love Quinn and Aeron. Cannot wait to see what happens in the next episode!

[Lara's Bookshelf · Rating 3 out of 5]

Heading into the third book, I was looking for more emotional impact and a stronger sense of urgency.

While there were some moments that I enjoyed, I felt that the story scattered sometimes and some of the resolutions felt a little too convenient.