What do you think?
Rate this book
Celestials of Arcadia: Insurgency #1
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow
Note: To avoid massive spoilers, it is highly encouraged to read A Touch of Gold and Madness prior to reading the first installment in the prequel trilogy.
Before there was Griffin Silas, there was Chrome Freyr…
Two elite teen Kinetic Warriors must protect the princess at all costs, but they never anticipated that they would both fall in the process.
Chrome Freyr, the greatest Kinetic Warrior in living memory, is only sixteen years old. The only mission on his mind is to protect her—the princess. For reasons he can’t explain, he feels an intense compulsion to save and nurture her, having been drawn to her energy since that fateful day on the playground when he was ten years old. However, King Forest does everything in his power to keep the two apart.
When asked to protect the princess in Chrome’s stead, Slate Helair, a fellow elite warrior, doesn’t hesitate. The plan to remove the king from power depends on the princess’s well-being and strength, so he’ll play his role in fostering her confidence and abilities. However, he doesn’t expect to be drawn in by her simmering fire, which he is unable to resist during her training sessions.
The insurgency is in its infancy stages to permanently remove the king from power in order to spare the world from unfathomable chaos. The members must walk a delicate line to keep their secrets hidden and those closest to them shielded from the king’s wrath. One slip-up could cost them everything they hold dear to their hearts.
The Embrace Of Steel and Sorrow is the first installment of the much anticipated interconnected prequel trilogy to The Celestials of Arcadia series. Leading up to the events of Devolution Day, twists and turns are revealed that lead to the mind-blowing ending in A Touch of Gold and Madness. With themes like angst, warrior bromance, betrayal, forbidden romance, and palace intrigue at the forefront, dive into the tragic past lying within the truths that captured readers of A Touch of Gold and Madness.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is a dark urban fantasy romance centered around heavy topics regarding trauma and mental health. Although the characters are aged as teens, this is not a young adult story. Please be sure to check content warnings before delving into the main characters’ dark pasts from The Celestials of Arcadia. Your mental health is important.
Before there was Griffin Silas, there was Chrome Freyr…
Two elite teen Kinetic Warriors must protect the princess at all costs, but they never anticipated that they would both fall in the process.
Chrome Freyr, the greatest Kinetic Warrior in living memory, is only sixteen years old. The only mission on his mind is to protect her—the princess. For reasons he can’t explain, he feels an intense compulsion to save and nurture her, having been drawn to her energy since that fateful day on the playground when he was ten years old. However, King Forest does everything in his power to keep the two apart.
When asked to protect the princess in Chrome’s stead, Slate Helair, a fellow elite warrior, doesn’t hesitate. The plan to remove the king from power depends on the princess’s well-being and strength, so he’ll play his role in fostering her confidence and abilities. However, he doesn’t expect to be drawn in by her simmering fire, which he is unable to resist during her training sessions.
The insurgency is in its infancy stages to permanently remove the king from power in order to spare the world from unfathomable chaos. The members must walk a delicate line to keep their secrets hidden and those closest to them shielded from the king’s wrath. One slip-up could cost them everything they hold dear to their hearts.
The Embrace Of Steel and Sorrow is the first installment of the much anticipated interconnected prequel trilogy to The Celestials of Arcadia series. Leading up to the events of Devolution Day, twists and turns are revealed that lead to the mind-blowing ending in A Touch of Gold and Madness. With themes like angst, warrior bromance, betrayal, forbidden romance, and palace intrigue at the forefront, dive into the tragic past lying within the truths that captured readers of A Touch of Gold and Madness.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is a dark urban fantasy romance centered around heavy topics regarding trauma and mental health. Although the characters are aged as teens, this is not a young adult story. Please be sure to check content warnings before delving into the main characters’ dark pasts from The Celestials of Arcadia. Your mental health is important.
440 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 26, 2024
446 people are currently reading
9677 people want to read
About the author
K.L. DeVore
4 books602 followersK.L. is a dark fantasy romance author who lives for complex plots, characters, and worlds. When she isn't writing or editing, she is either reading or drawing realistic charcoal portraits. As a mother of two rowdy boys, she values the quiet evenings when she can focus on her work best while drinking a mug of sugar-free hot cocoa.
While she loves writing a spicy slow burn and lots of fight scenes, her books depict dark themes of trauma and healing that she hopes will resonate with other readers.
While she loves writing a spicy slow burn and lots of fight scenes, her books depict dark themes of trauma and healing that she hopes will resonate with other readers.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
November 15, 2024
“Don’t let them break you”
“They already have.”
My heart was just broken into a million jagged pieces and I genuinely will never be the same. This was the type of book that makes you feel sick to your stomach the ENTIRE time you read it. Just thinking about it too long makes the pit form in my stomach all over again 😭😭😭! And yes of course it was still 5 stars because I’m a masochist for pain and suffering when it comes to books… But let me tell you this takes pain to a whole new level. I honestly think this trilogy could best be marketed as a tragedy because that’s what it is at its core.
FIRST THINGS FIRST! This is the first book in the interconnected prequel trilogy to the celestials of Arcadia series, the first book being a touch of gold and madness. YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST READ A TOUCH OF GOLD AND MADNESS FIRST!!!! If you don’t so much will be spoiled!!! Also please note this is a dark fantasy romance, emphasis on the dark. Please please please check your trigger warnings, there are extremely heavy themes and scenes that are important to be aware of going in.
THAT BEING SAID. My god this was a fucking masterpiece. K.L. Devour you are an absolute GENIUS. I just can’t get over how immersive her writing is, reading this book felt like I was watching it happen through the characters eyes. A touch of gold and madness (ATOGAM) was one of my favorite reads of the year and one of my new favorite books of all time so I had high expectations going into this and my god they were met.
This book documents the events leading up to the apocalypse (devolution day) and so many plot twists and secrets were revealed that ultimately lead to the JAW DROPPING, GUT WRENCHING, ending in a touch of gold and madness. That quite literally still haunts me to this day. So many of my questions were answered yet at the same time I feel like I have a million more and my brain might actually IMPLODE!!! But this truly was one of the best prequel books I’ve ever read!
However, this was also one of the most difficult books for me to read from an emotional standpoint. I feel like this book permanently carved out a piece of my soul that I’ll never get back. How much pain this put me through is a testament to how well K.L. writes her characters. I was already so painfully attached to Chrome and Gray in ATOGAM, and this book increased my attachment to them 10 fold.
Chrome my sweet, sad, tortured, broken, traumatized, baby angel!! Oh my god talk about a character that must be protected AT ALL COSTS!! He stole my heart in ATOGAM and getting his soul destroying back story of course made me love him even more. One thing about me is the MMC with the tortured soul is going steal my heart every time. My total cry count for him was 5… that doesn’t include the amount of times I’ve cried just thinking about him since finishing this. His story is not easy by any means to read. The way he sacrificed himself over and over again to protect Gray and pushed his feelings for her to the side to give her a chance at experiencing what it felt like to be loved GUTTED me! The foreshadowing of them finding their way back to each other helped me hold on to my sanity. I had to keep going back and reading ATOGAM chapters to remind myself this all happened in the past because it hurt too much. I love this man with every fiber of my being.
“She was going to be mine. One day. But at least for now, I could leave my mark so she couldn’t forget me.”
“Make her happy and safe. That’s all I ask.”
Slate… I knew I would love his character just based off of how Gray spoke about him in ATOGAM and he did not disappoint. Did I suffer immensely reading the scenes of him and gray as a couple? Very much so yes. But that’s only because I’m irrationally protective of Chrome. Some people have speculated that the main series is going to turn into a love triangle, and personally I couldn’t disagree more. I think it’s very clear that Slate and Grays relationship is meant to stay in the past and that he was exactly what she needed to survive that time of her life, but I think even Slate knew it was always going to be her and Chrome. However this just made me very excited for Slates character arc in the main series because there’s literally nothing not to love about him😭😭 (so long as you and gray stay strictly platonic in the future).
THE PLOT TWISTS AT THE END??????? Honestly K.L. never fails to make my jaw fall to the floor at this point. This plot is so intricately woven with so much attention to detail. However I will not know peace until I have the next book in my hands.
Mentally we are so beyond unwell. But it’s okay. We’re fine. Everything’s fine.
- Angst
- Elemental/kinetic magic
- Urban fantasy
- Warrior bromance
- Forbidden romance
- Palace intrigue
- Secrets and betrayal
- Mental health rep
- Trauma rep
- Pain pain pain and more pain
Thank you so so much to K.L. And her team for sending me an arc copy of this book ♥️♥️
“They already have.”
My heart was just broken into a million jagged pieces and I genuinely will never be the same. This was the type of book that makes you feel sick to your stomach the ENTIRE time you read it. Just thinking about it too long makes the pit form in my stomach all over again 😭😭😭! And yes of course it was still 5 stars because I’m a masochist for pain and suffering when it comes to books… But let me tell you this takes pain to a whole new level. I honestly think this trilogy could best be marketed as a tragedy because that’s what it is at its core.
FIRST THINGS FIRST! This is the first book in the interconnected prequel trilogy to the celestials of Arcadia series, the first book being a touch of gold and madness. YOU ABSOLUTELY MUST READ A TOUCH OF GOLD AND MADNESS FIRST!!!! If you don’t so much will be spoiled!!! Also please note this is a dark fantasy romance, emphasis on the dark. Please please please check your trigger warnings, there are extremely heavy themes and scenes that are important to be aware of going in.
THAT BEING SAID. My god this was a fucking masterpiece. K.L. Devour you are an absolute GENIUS. I just can’t get over how immersive her writing is, reading this book felt like I was watching it happen through the characters eyes. A touch of gold and madness (ATOGAM) was one of my favorite reads of the year and one of my new favorite books of all time so I had high expectations going into this and my god they were met.
This book documents the events leading up to the apocalypse (devolution day) and so many plot twists and secrets were revealed that ultimately lead to the JAW DROPPING, GUT WRENCHING, ending in a touch of gold and madness. That quite literally still haunts me to this day. So many of my questions were answered yet at the same time I feel like I have a million more and my brain might actually IMPLODE!!! But this truly was one of the best prequel books I’ve ever read!
However, this was also one of the most difficult books for me to read from an emotional standpoint. I feel like this book permanently carved out a piece of my soul that I’ll never get back. How much pain this put me through is a testament to how well K.L. writes her characters. I was already so painfully attached to Chrome and Gray in ATOGAM, and this book increased my attachment to them 10 fold.
Chrome my sweet, sad, tortured, broken, traumatized, baby angel!! Oh my god talk about a character that must be protected AT ALL COSTS!! He stole my heart in ATOGAM and getting his soul destroying back story of course made me love him even more. One thing about me is the MMC with the tortured soul is going steal my heart every time. My total cry count for him was 5… that doesn’t include the amount of times I’ve cried just thinking about him since finishing this. His story is not easy by any means to read. The way he sacrificed himself over and over again to protect Gray and pushed his feelings for her to the side to give her a chance at experiencing what it felt like to be loved GUTTED me! The foreshadowing of them finding their way back to each other helped me hold on to my sanity. I had to keep going back and reading ATOGAM chapters to remind myself this all happened in the past because it hurt too much. I love this man with every fiber of my being.
“She was going to be mine. One day. But at least for now, I could leave my mark so she couldn’t forget me.”
“Make her happy and safe. That’s all I ask.”
Slate… I knew I would love his character just based off of how Gray spoke about him in ATOGAM and he did not disappoint. Did I suffer immensely reading the scenes of him and gray as a couple? Very much so yes. But that’s only because I’m irrationally protective of Chrome. Some people have speculated that the main series is going to turn into a love triangle, and personally I couldn’t disagree more. I think it’s very clear that Slate and Grays relationship is meant to stay in the past and that he was exactly what she needed to survive that time of her life, but I think even Slate knew it was always going to be her and Chrome. However this just made me very excited for Slates character arc in the main series because there’s literally nothing not to love about him😭😭 (so long as you and gray stay strictly platonic in the future).
THE PLOT TWISTS AT THE END??????? Honestly K.L. never fails to make my jaw fall to the floor at this point. This plot is so intricately woven with so much attention to detail. However I will not know peace until I have the next book in my hands.
Mentally we are so beyond unwell. But it’s okay. We’re fine. Everything’s fine.
- Angst
- Elemental/kinetic magic
- Urban fantasy
- Warrior bromance
- Forbidden romance
- Palace intrigue
- Secrets and betrayal
- Mental health rep
- Trauma rep
- Pain pain pain and more pain
Thank you so so much to K.L. And her team for sending me an arc copy of this book ♥️♥️
November 17, 2024
The first book in the prequel series for ‘A Touch of Gold and Madness’. Please note: you HAVE to read ATOGAM first before reading this. Even though this is a prequel it has so many spoilers for ATOGAM.
I knew going back to see how we got to where we are at the end of ATOGAM would be heartbreaking but I didn’t think K.L. DeVore would rip my heart out and stomp all over it like that. Immediately transported back into the world and magic that I love (and hate because most of those characters SUCK. I have never hated so many villains SO deeply).
This was beautiful, painful, raw, terrifying, nauseating, stressful, heart breaking, earth shattering but most importantly it was perfect.
5 stars ⭐️ Perfection. If you liked ATOGAM PLEASE read this but make sure you check trigger warnings!!!!! (I also need all of the books immediately, I think the wait will kill me)
I knew going back to see how we got to where we are at the end of ATOGAM would be heartbreaking but I didn’t think K.L. DeVore would rip my heart out and stomp all over it like that. Immediately transported back into the world and magic that I love (and hate because most of those characters SUCK. I have never hated so many villains SO deeply).
This was beautiful, painful, raw, terrifying, nauseating, stressful, heart breaking, earth shattering but most importantly it was perfect.
5 stars ⭐️ Perfection. If you liked ATOGAM PLEASE read this but make sure you check trigger warnings!!!!! (I also need all of the books immediately, I think the wait will kill me)
June 25, 2025
'The shards from my broken heart severed what remained of my soul'
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Well this book truly gave me the heartbreak I knew it would! Urm that last 20%....WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!
So this is a prequel to A Touch of Gold and Madness and you must read that book first or you will give yourself major spoilers!! This story goes back to our main characters lives pre devolution day and it was tough. In ATOGAM we learn about their dark and traumatic past but actually going through it with them, yeah, it was straight up painful!
Chrome, I have no words. I loved this man so much already but now I feel such a deep connection to him because he literally goes through hell and back. I just want to erase all this pain for him.
"Don't let them break you" ... "They. Already have"
"I just wana be free."
"I was tired of fighting. Of fighting for someone else. What was the point of battling to stay alive if only to serve those who would continue to abuse me? When I couldn't be the superhero for those I cared about the most? For her?" 😭😭😭
Don't even get me started on everything he does for Grey because I can't deal with that right now.
"Make her happy and safe. That is all I ask." 💔
Although we don't get a lot of Grey's pov in this book, learning more about her back story really made me appreciate her strength so much more than I already did!!
I won't lie I did struggle with Slate for most of this book because Chrome!!! I am so conflicted because in general he's a good guy, but he was really testing me. Simply because we know what we know from atogam and we get Chromes pov and it was killing me!!! (Don't you dare try start a love triangle and make me eat my words!!!! 👀)
There were so many moments in this book that overlapped with things we already knew and it just connected together so well but gosh I have so many questions spinning around in my head. Like I need answers now!!! Trust me, these books are perfection!! You will be so completely hooked!
Also having to witness this moment, "I love you big brother. Go be free"... I need therapy.
I am so glad I got to buddy read this with bestie Mina because not only did we inhale this book but we also got to spiral together, scream together and share our anger. I am looking forward to waking up and seeing your thoughts girl because I have spammed you with about 100 new messages!!
Please check trigger warnings because this is a dark fantasy romance and the MCs go through a lot of awful things.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
Well this book truly gave me the heartbreak I knew it would! Urm that last 20%....WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!
So this is a prequel to A Touch of Gold and Madness and you must read that book first or you will give yourself major spoilers!! This story goes back to our main characters lives pre devolution day and it was tough. In ATOGAM we learn about their dark and traumatic past but actually going through it with them, yeah, it was straight up painful!
Chrome, I have no words. I loved this man so much already but now I feel such a deep connection to him because he literally goes through hell and back. I just want to erase all this pain for him.
"Don't let them break you" ... "They. Already have"
"I just wana be free."
"I was tired of fighting. Of fighting for someone else. What was the point of battling to stay alive if only to serve those who would continue to abuse me? When I couldn't be the superhero for those I cared about the most? For her?" 😭😭😭
Don't even get me started on everything he does for Grey because I can't deal with that right now.
"Make her happy and safe. That is all I ask." 💔
Although we don't get a lot of Grey's pov in this book, learning more about her back story really made me appreciate her strength so much more than I already did!!
I won't lie I did struggle with Slate for most of this book because Chrome!!! I am so conflicted because in general he's a good guy, but he was really testing me. Simply because we know what we know from atogam and we get Chromes pov and it was killing me!!! (Don't you dare try start a love triangle and make me eat my words!!!! 👀)
There were so many moments in this book that overlapped with things we already knew and it just connected together so well but gosh I have so many questions spinning around in my head. Like I need answers now!!! Trust me, these books are perfection!! You will be so completely hooked!
Also having to witness this moment, "I love you big brother. Go be free"... I need therapy.
I am so glad I got to buddy read this with bestie Mina because not only did we inhale this book but we also got to spiral together, scream together and share our anger. I am looking forward to waking up and seeing your thoughts girl because I have spammed you with about 100 new messages!!
Please check trigger warnings because this is a dark fantasy romance and the MCs go through a lot of awful things.
November 24, 2024
5 stars
“The familiar essence of comfort wrapped around me in a fierce embrace of steel and sorrow.”
This is the first book in the prequel series that goes along with A Touch of Gold & Madness, and yes, you have to read A Touch of Gold & Madness first before reading this one! Embrace of Steel & Sorrow gives us more of a backstory of everything leaving up to Devolution Day that we need know in order to understand everything in the main series.
DARK urban fantasy romance, please check triggers!!!!!
This book was heartbreaking, it gave so many answers, but also left us with so many more questions??? We may already know bits and pieces of what happened to our main characters in the past, but actually reading about it is a whole different beast. I just want to hug each and every one of them. Especially Chrome. CHROME, our emo sad boy, GOD I knew he went through it but reading about it HURT. I honestly didn’t think I could hate the king more, but here were are, and I absolutely do. The way that he loves Gray from afar… Just tear my heart out, K.L. Devore.
This pulled so much emotion from me, and for that, the world that is being weaved, and the love that is growing for these characters, this is a 5 star book. I am scared, but ready for where she takes us next.
“The familiar essence of comfort wrapped around me in a fierce embrace of steel and sorrow.”
This is the first book in the prequel series that goes along with A Touch of Gold & Madness, and yes, you have to read A Touch of Gold & Madness first before reading this one! Embrace of Steel & Sorrow gives us more of a backstory of everything leaving up to Devolution Day that we need know in order to understand everything in the main series.
DARK urban fantasy romance, please check triggers!!!!!
This book was heartbreaking, it gave so many answers, but also left us with so many more questions??? We may already know bits and pieces of what happened to our main characters in the past, but actually reading about it is a whole different beast. I just want to hug each and every one of them. Especially Chrome. CHROME, our emo sad boy, GOD I knew he went through it but reading about it HURT. I honestly didn’t think I could hate the king more, but here were are, and I absolutely do. The way that he loves Gray from afar… Just tear my heart out, K.L. Devore.
This pulled so much emotion from me, and for that, the world that is being weaved, and the love that is growing for these characters, this is a 5 star book. I am scared, but ready for where she takes us next.
December 5, 2025
“The familiar essence of comfort wrapped around me in a fierce embrace of steel and sorrow.”
4.5 stars
This was such an emotional and heavy read but I’m so glad I read the prequel before going into the second book in the series!! Highly recommend doing it to get a better understanding of the characters, their relationships and the story!
It’s infuriating reading a book where the wrong guy is with the fmc, Gray😫 I’m screaming!! The reason why this is not a 5 star is solely because of Slate!! I want to push him away from her!! Yes he is a good guy and blah blah blah but I need Chrome to be with Gray RIGHT NOW!! This was torture and so depressing!!! I need a break and I need for Chrome to be happy!!😭🥺the pain and suffering he is going through and has been through his whole life breaks my heart!!! And on top of that, he has to endure Grays emotions and connection with Slate who btw is his best friend??!! The audacity!! 😭 give this man some peace and love pls!!! I want to cry! And the ending!?! I’m so glad I got the arc for the second book because wtf😫😅
K.L. DeVore, I’m sending you my therapy bill!!
“Go be free.” 😭💔
Pre-read
I’ve avoided the pain for long enough. Hoping to finish the prequel today since I’m getting the arc for the second book tomorrow 🤭
4.5 stars
This was such an emotional and heavy read but I’m so glad I read the prequel before going into the second book in the series!! Highly recommend doing it to get a better understanding of the characters, their relationships and the story!
It’s infuriating reading a book where the wrong guy is with the fmc, Gray😫 I’m screaming!! The reason why this is not a 5 star is solely because of Slate!! I want to push him away from her!! Yes he is a good guy and blah blah blah but I need Chrome to be with Gray RIGHT NOW!! This was torture and so depressing!!! I need a break and I need for Chrome to be happy!!😭🥺the pain and suffering he is going through and has been through his whole life breaks my heart!!! And on top of that, he has to endure Grays emotions and connection with Slate who btw is his best friend??!! The audacity!! 😭 give this man some peace and love pls!!! I want to cry! And the ending!?! I’m so glad I got the arc for the second book because wtf😫😅
K.L. DeVore, I’m sending you my therapy bill!!
“Go be free.” 😭💔
Pre-read
I’ve avoided the pain for long enough. Hoping to finish the prequel today since I’m getting the arc for the second book tomorrow 🤭
April 17, 2025
4.5✨ alright, I expected going into this prequel for ATOGAM that it would hurt but goddamn K.L. Devore really said “take that and times it by a hundred”. Thank GOD I buddy read this with my girl Laura Jane so we could crash out and theorize together (even though we didn’t guess anything correctly💀)
You MUST read ATOGAM before this prequel because it is entirely spoilers‼️
I actually can’t get over how much I love K.L. Devore’s writing because it just totally sucks you in and makes it so hard to do literally anything else but keep reading to get answers. The characters are so easy to fall for (except I still don’t know how I feel about Slate if I’m being honest 😶🌫️ get your own girl, my guy) We did get a lot of questions answered in this book but then got slapped in the face with 95829341 more so my feelings are currently all over the place.
There was just so much pain delivered to my sweet baby Chrome, this man did not know a second of peace or happiness. All he did was sacrifice himself over and over again and it actually makes me want to yeet myself off the nearest balcony. I knew this book would be nothing but pain but it made me feel so sick to my stomach for him. A part of me wishes we got Gray’s POV as well but it didn’t take away from the book at all that it was just in Chrome and Slate’s POV and we still got to learn more about her backstory as well. I’m so desperate for the next book and there’s no release date????? Amazing 🫠 I hate it here
You MUST read ATOGAM before this prequel because it is entirely spoilers‼️
I actually can’t get over how much I love K.L. Devore’s writing because it just totally sucks you in and makes it so hard to do literally anything else but keep reading to get answers. The characters are so easy to fall for (except I still don’t know how I feel about Slate if I’m being honest 😶🌫️ get your own girl, my guy) We did get a lot of questions answered in this book but then got slapped in the face with 95829341 more so my feelings are currently all over the place.
There was just so much pain delivered to my sweet baby Chrome, this man did not know a second of peace or happiness. All he did was sacrifice himself over and over again and it actually makes me want to yeet myself off the nearest balcony. I knew this book would be nothing but pain but it made me feel so sick to my stomach for him. A part of me wishes we got Gray’s POV as well but it didn’t take away from the book at all that it was just in Chrome and Slate’s POV and we still got to learn more about her backstory as well. I’m so desperate for the next book and there’s no release date????? Amazing 🫠 I hate it here
November 17, 2024
THIS BOOK!!!!! 😩😩
5⭐️ absolute perfection. The chokehold that these characters have on me.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is the first book in the prequel series to A Touch of Gold and Madness (definitely read that first!)
You are left with countless questions after ATOGAM, so this prequel was soooo necessary. Even though I definitely have 700 new questions (UM HELLO, that ENDING????)
TEOSAS is very dark and very emotional. We learn in ATOGAM that our beloved characters have tortured pasts, and we got to re live it all with them. It was a devastatingly beautiful story and I will not soon recover.
K.L. has created the best world, magic system, and characters with these books and I am literally foaming at the mouth for the next installment.
5⭐️ absolute perfection. The chokehold that these characters have on me.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is the first book in the prequel series to A Touch of Gold and Madness (definitely read that first!)
You are left with countless questions after ATOGAM, so this prequel was soooo necessary. Even though I definitely have 700 new questions (UM HELLO, that ENDING????)
TEOSAS is very dark and very emotional. We learn in ATOGAM that our beloved characters have tortured pasts, and we got to re live it all with them. It was a devastatingly beautiful story and I will not soon recover.
K.L. has created the best world, magic system, and characters with these books and I am literally foaming at the mouth for the next installment.
December 21, 2025
i’m not even kidding when i say being stabbed would’ve be less painful than this book.
February 10, 2025
I was hoping this one would hit as hard as book one did but sadly it missed the mark for me. I still really enjoyed the characters and the world. It was nice seeing how we got to where the first series started, but overall, this just felt unnecessary? I think it would have made a good novella, but I'm unsure why we need a whole trilogy and this info wouldn't be woven into the main series. It didn't give me much more new information. I was also really annoyed with character showing up saying "here's everything you need to know" and them just blindly saying cool! and running with it. It just seemed like lazy world building to me. So while there were definitely things I enjoyed, overall, it was not the win I was hoping for.
June 17, 2025
5 stars. perfection.
beautiful, raw, devastating, there are too many words to even try and describe this.
beautiful, raw, devastating, there are too many words to even try and describe this.
November 11, 2024
Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the amazing author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“You have this … broken boy vibe going on”
“What was the point of being the most powerful being alive if I couldn’t defend myself against those weaker than me?”
“A little bit of a savage”
This book was … painful. In the most excruciatingly beautiful sort of way. If you’ve read A Touch of Gold and Madness, and questioned how those characters became what they were, then be prepared because the story of their making is not an easy one. The things they had to go through. Gray, Chrome and Slate. They are bound to one another. In this one you will learn the true depth of the bond Gray and Chrome share. The possibility of a love triangle blossoming. You will leave with them while they are still children abused in an evil world of adults wanting to take advance of their powers. You will feel for them. You will fall for them. And when you least expect it (but you kinda do considering what we know from ATOGAM) this book will tear your heart into a thousand tiny pieces with no intention of healing it. And by the end you will be thanking the author for putting through this pain even if during some moments it will feel unimaginable. The emotions I found myself experiencing in this book, shouldn’t be felt by a normal human being all in one time and space. And yet, they were so raw, so pure and so cruel that I simply couldn’t turn my face to the other side and deny what I was seeing. And believe me, by a certain point I was in denial alright. I couldn’t for the life of me keep on reading. But the author made it absolutely impossible. I needed more. I wanted more. And I needed to know what my beautiful and broken boy was doing. The attachment I feel for these characters was real before and it is real now. But after those last chapters … I am shook to my core !!! And I need more asap !!!!
“You’re not alone. Never alone”
“Make’em bow”
“We were weary souls in the night, trying to stay afloat”
“You have this … broken boy vibe going on”
“What was the point of being the most powerful being alive if I couldn’t defend myself against those weaker than me?”
“A little bit of a savage”
This book was … painful. In the most excruciatingly beautiful sort of way. If you’ve read A Touch of Gold and Madness, and questioned how those characters became what they were, then be prepared because the story of their making is not an easy one. The things they had to go through. Gray, Chrome and Slate. They are bound to one another. In this one you will learn the true depth of the bond Gray and Chrome share. The possibility of a love triangle blossoming. You will leave with them while they are still children abused in an evil world of adults wanting to take advance of their powers. You will feel for them. You will fall for them. And when you least expect it (but you kinda do considering what we know from ATOGAM) this book will tear your heart into a thousand tiny pieces with no intention of healing it. And by the end you will be thanking the author for putting through this pain even if during some moments it will feel unimaginable. The emotions I found myself experiencing in this book, shouldn’t be felt by a normal human being all in one time and space. And yet, they were so raw, so pure and so cruel that I simply couldn’t turn my face to the other side and deny what I was seeing. And believe me, by a certain point I was in denial alright. I couldn’t for the life of me keep on reading. But the author made it absolutely impossible. I needed more. I wanted more. And I needed to know what my beautiful and broken boy was doing. The attachment I feel for these characters was real before and it is real now. But after those last chapters … I am shook to my core !!! And I need more asap !!!!
“You’re not alone. Never alone”
“Make’em bow”
“We were weary souls in the night, trying to stay afloat”
November 6, 2024
This book was absolute perfection!
Let me start off by saying it is an honor to be part of the ARC team and to have had the chance to read it before the release day.
I strongly encourage everyone to read A Touch of Gold and Madness first. If you're starting with The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow, you'll spoil the magic of ATOGAM for yourself.
This book shattered me. It walked all over my heart and broke it into tiny pieces. But damn it was soooo good. I don't regret a single word read and I would do it all over again.
If you think you loved Griffin/Chrome before, let me tell you, no, you didn't. After reading TEOSAS I am forever convinced that he must be protected at all costs and deserves all the love in the world.
The pain he goes through in this book is mind shattering. And to have the chance to find out exactly what happened prior to ATOGAM and how he became Griffin, I have no words for him.
My heart broke for him at every turn. He is such a strong MMC, who surprises you at every chance.
I was also left a bit confused about a particular chapter in this book and I have mixed feelings about it, but damn, the plot twist was so good.
The last two chapters left my jaw on the floor. I did not see them coming and I'm not sure how I'm supposed to not spiral until the second book comes out 🥹
With that being said, I'm off to reread ATOGAM because I can not get enough of this man, the world building, the plot and everything about it.
I'm sure as hell that the reread will hit different after TEOSAS 🥹🥹🥹
Let me start off by saying it is an honor to be part of the ARC team and to have had the chance to read it before the release day.
I strongly encourage everyone to read A Touch of Gold and Madness first. If you're starting with The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow, you'll spoil the magic of ATOGAM for yourself.
This book shattered me. It walked all over my heart and broke it into tiny pieces. But damn it was soooo good. I don't regret a single word read and I would do it all over again.
If you think you loved Griffin/Chrome before, let me tell you, no, you didn't. After reading TEOSAS I am forever convinced that he must be protected at all costs and deserves all the love in the world.
The pain he goes through in this book is mind shattering. And to have the chance to find out exactly what happened prior to ATOGAM and how he became Griffin, I have no words for him.
My heart broke for him at every turn. He is such a strong MMC, who surprises you at every chance.
I was also left a bit confused about a particular chapter in this book and I have mixed feelings about it, but damn, the plot twist was so good.
The last two chapters left my jaw on the floor. I did not see them coming and I'm not sure how I'm supposed to not spiral until the second book comes out 🥹
With that being said, I'm off to reread ATOGAM because I can not get enough of this man, the world building, the plot and everything about it.
I'm sure as hell that the reread will hit different after TEOSAS 🥹🥹🥹
December 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
The pain is never ending, and I’m not even mad about it.
Without getting too spoilery (because YES you have to read AToGaM before this)…this broke me into a million fucking pieces.
The way I sobbed for how much our man Chrome goes through. No person should be put through that much pain, like honestly it’s criminal. Literally. There’s nothing I wanted more of than to reach through the pages and hug this man and just tell him he’ll be okay…(right KL Devore!?!???). I lived for the little moments of happiness he got (few and far between as they were). This man is the definition of SELFLESS, of touch her and d*e, of I will find you in this life and the next…I am sat and ready for you Chrome.
I did adore the bromance, but a certain someone did PISS ME TF off. Like the guilt you were feeling was obviously not enough to stop you and I’m not pleased with it. With that being said, I am incredibly intrigued with this particular characters storyline now that we got THAT revelation in the end. I need to know more…as long as you leave my gorgeous Gray to find her way back to her man. Mkay!?!?
I went through literally every human emotion reading this, and I cried way too many times to count. And I’d do it again.
The pain is never ending, and I’m not even mad about it.
Without getting too spoilery (because YES you have to read AToGaM before this)…this broke me into a million fucking pieces.
The way I sobbed for how much our man Chrome goes through. No person should be put through that much pain, like honestly it’s criminal. Literally. There’s nothing I wanted more of than to reach through the pages and hug this man and just tell him he’ll be okay…(right KL Devore!?!???). I lived for the little moments of happiness he got (few and far between as they were). This man is the definition of SELFLESS, of touch her and d*e, of I will find you in this life and the next…I am sat and ready for you Chrome.
I did adore the bromance, but a certain someone did PISS ME TF off. Like the guilt you were feeling was obviously not enough to stop you and I’m not pleased with it. With that being said, I am incredibly intrigued with this particular characters storyline now that we got THAT revelation in the end. I need to know more…as long as you leave my gorgeous Gray to find her way back to her man. Mkay!?!?
I went through literally every human emotion reading this, and I cried way too many times to count. And I’d do it again.
December 1, 2025
(4.25/5) I feel the need to preface this book review by saying that, at this point in my reading journey, I really prefer adult books with characters over the age of 19. Especially books told in 1st person POV and feature dark topics and themes like trauma.
Overall, I enjoyed this book because I love the Celestials of Arcadia series so much. It made me reminisce on reading A Touch of Gold and Madness for the first time and reminded me how much I love these characters. It was also a great refresher on the magic system, universe, and events that shaped these characters leading into ATOGAM. And THAT scene had me bawling my eyes out, which just goes to show how deeply I care for these characters.
I wish K.L. DeVore chose to write this in 3rd person POV rather than 1st. I found the internal monologue didn't always feel entirely believable for characters ages 14-16, and it pulled me out of the story multiple times. That's probably my biggest critique of this book.
I'm really curious why K.L. DeVore chose to market this as a prequel series instead of novellas or .5 books (e.g., this book would be 1.5 in the series). Having already read ATOGAM, I knew almost all of the major moments throughout this book. As someone who prefers to read books blindly, that took away from the surprise and removed the suspense elements (which were something I enjoyed in ATOGAM).
It makes me think back to my reading experience of the Zodiac Academy series—that series has almost a billion novellas, and I chose to read them because they added meaningful background and context. Framing this as "Celestials of Arcadia Insurgency" series makes it feel a bit separate, almost like something you don't have to read, even though I think this is critical to the reading experience for Celestials of Arcadia.
Maybe I'm just talking myself in circles and losing anyone reading this review, but what you should take away: I love this series as a whole and am excited to continue reading it.
Overall, I enjoyed this book because I love the Celestials of Arcadia series so much. It made me reminisce on reading A Touch of Gold and Madness for the first time and reminded me how much I love these characters. It was also a great refresher on the magic system, universe, and events that shaped these characters leading into ATOGAM. And THAT scene had me bawling my eyes out, which just goes to show how deeply I care for these characters.
I wish K.L. DeVore chose to write this in 3rd person POV rather than 1st. I found the internal monologue didn't always feel entirely believable for characters ages 14-16, and it pulled me out of the story multiple times. That's probably my biggest critique of this book.
I'm really curious why K.L. DeVore chose to market this as a prequel series instead of novellas or .5 books (e.g., this book would be 1.5 in the series). Having already read ATOGAM, I knew almost all of the major moments throughout this book. As someone who prefers to read books blindly, that took away from the surprise and removed the suspense elements (which were something I enjoyed in ATOGAM).
It makes me think back to my reading experience of the Zodiac Academy series—that series has almost a billion novellas, and I chose to read them because they added meaningful background and context. Framing this as "Celestials of Arcadia Insurgency" series makes it feel a bit separate, almost like something you don't have to read, even though I think this is critical to the reading experience for Celestials of Arcadia.
Maybe I'm just talking myself in circles and losing anyone reading this review, but what you should take away: I love this series as a whole and am excited to continue reading it.
November 2, 2024
Absolute HONOR to be able to read this early. The intensity of KL’s writing is beautiful. I love this world so much and I am so happy to be back. Set 10 years prior to the events of A Touch of Gold and Madness we met Chrome & Slate. Two warriors who have been trained for a purpose. We learn what makes them the way they are and how they met our princess Gray. This story is emotional and dark. This is not a light HEA. this is a heavy traumatic read that will completely consume you. In the best way! So proud of KL!!! Absolutely perfect.
November 28, 2024
“Don’t let them break you”
“They already have”
I’m sorry but the pain this put me through was so rude. I’m still in pain
I was so excited to get back into this world I could cry. This series is so unique and the writing reading flows so insanely well. The way the author describes the world, and the scenes is SO good.
Seeing Chrome go through what we were told in book 1 and then some was absolutely heartbreaking. I cried so many times. Him always caring for Gray (even from afar) shut up. I love reading about him because he is such a strong character and seeing how he grows through all the hardships is so
:(
I have a love hate relationship w Slate lol love him and honestly liked reading about him and Gray but then I would remember Chrome and I would be sad so that was hard lol I had to keep separating this time jump from book 1. It worked out so well seeing that Gray needed Slate during that time and he was there for her 100%.
Slate is such an amazing character though and I enjoyed getting to know him more than what we got from Gray in book 1. I love them
Ummmm the ending? Excuse me I have QUESYIONS. I want the next book now pls
“They already have”
I’m sorry but the pain this put me through was so rude. I’m still in pain
I was so excited to get back into this world I could cry. This series is so unique and the writing reading flows so insanely well. The way the author describes the world, and the scenes is SO good.
Seeing Chrome go through what we were told in book 1 and then some was absolutely heartbreaking. I cried so many times. Him always caring for Gray (even from afar) shut up. I love reading about him because he is such a strong character and seeing how he grows through all the hardships is so
:(
I have a love hate relationship w Slate lol love him and honestly liked reading about him and Gray but then I would remember Chrome and I would be sad so that was hard lol I had to keep separating this time jump from book 1. It worked out so well seeing that Gray needed Slate during that time and he was there for her 100%.
Slate is such an amazing character though and I enjoyed getting to know him more than what we got from Gray in book 1. I love them
Ummmm the ending? Excuse me I have QUESYIONS. I want the next book now pls
November 7, 2024
I’ve been quiet on reviews lately. BUT I cannot stay quiet on this.
Again, I hate giving spoilers and will refuse to do so. You’re welcome. Alas I feel it is my duty to warn of triggers when I’m recommending a book as such as this one. You will want to move with caution on the triggers in this book. Child 🍆 a b u s e even though it is presumed, not directly written. Ideology for the wants of not being of this world anymore. (Literally being so cliche here to avoid trigger words) and such. Please please please read the warnings before going into this book as there are more.
Beyond that, this book is an absolutely amazing prequel to A Touch of Gold & Madness, however to avoid major spoilage in ATOGAM, you will want to read that one before this one. And before you ask, yes. They both leave you on a cliff hanger. So if you’re afraid of heights, buy both books and wait for further instructions. 🫡
This was such a perfect glimpse into the 10 years before ATOGAM, and done so well between two points of view. There were so many times that I felt things really click into place and more theories come to light. I can’t wait to see where this prequel series takes us as well as ATOGAM. Be prepared with tissue though.
I absolutely LOVE K.L. as a writer, how she explores some of the complexities of trauma and really gives you a found family between pages that’s healing in itself. I’m so thankful to be a part of her ARC and Street Team. If you haven’t read these books you are missing out.
Again, I hate giving spoilers and will refuse to do so. You’re welcome. Alas I feel it is my duty to warn of triggers when I’m recommending a book as such as this one. You will want to move with caution on the triggers in this book. Child 🍆 a b u s e even though it is presumed, not directly written. Ideology for the wants of not being of this world anymore. (Literally being so cliche here to avoid trigger words) and such. Please please please read the warnings before going into this book as there are more.
Beyond that, this book is an absolutely amazing prequel to A Touch of Gold & Madness, however to avoid major spoilage in ATOGAM, you will want to read that one before this one. And before you ask, yes. They both leave you on a cliff hanger. So if you’re afraid of heights, buy both books and wait for further instructions. 🫡
This was such a perfect glimpse into the 10 years before ATOGAM, and done so well between two points of view. There were so many times that I felt things really click into place and more theories come to light. I can’t wait to see where this prequel series takes us as well as ATOGAM. Be prepared with tissue though.
I absolutely LOVE K.L. as a writer, how she explores some of the complexities of trauma and really gives you a found family between pages that’s healing in itself. I’m so thankful to be a part of her ARC and Street Team. If you haven’t read these books you are missing out.
July 20, 2025
Binged this motherfucker in ONE SITTING and let me tell you, the TRAUMA that i have from this book is genuinely UNREAL.
i actually CRIED during this book like… FULL ON CRY!! it takes a lot for me…..
this book was so beautiful and devastatingly tragic. i loved getting chromes backstory and also learning more about slate. the world that KL Devore has created is so intricate and well thought out. you can tell that she put a lot of work into developing her story and her execution of it was just SPOT ON!!
This book was just fantastic, five stars!!!!
if you haven’t read a touch of gold and maddness, read that first, then come join me after you read this one. we can cry together 😭😭
i actually CRIED during this book like… FULL ON CRY!! it takes a lot for me…..
this book was so beautiful and devastatingly tragic. i loved getting chromes backstory and also learning more about slate. the world that KL Devore has created is so intricate and well thought out. you can tell that she put a lot of work into developing her story and her execution of it was just SPOT ON!!
This book was just fantastic, five stars!!!!
if you haven’t read a touch of gold and maddness, read that first, then come join me after you read this one. we can cry together 😭😭
January 17, 2025
3.7 i finally finished this
April 9, 2025
"The familiar essence of comfort wrapped around me in a fierce embrace of steel and sorrow."
Holy shit, this book is absolute perfection. Even though this book is part of the prequel series, you MUST read A Touch of Gold and Madness FIRST! Otherwise, you'll spoil that book for yourself, and the pain won't hit as hard.
This world right here is exactly why I love to read fantasy books. 6 freaking stars 🌟
We go back in time to see what happened before D-Day and all the events leading up to it. My emotions are all over the place - it's traumatic, it's painful and it's so fucking good. The foreshadowing, the links to ATOGAM and just everything is flawless.
Gray is still one of my favourite FMCs I've read about, from where she starts in this book, to where she ends at the end of ATOGAM is incredible. She is a badass.
I'm scared for what's to come, my jaw was literally on the floor at the end of this book. I just need my babies to be okay 😭 I cried throughout especially when reading about certain events, my poor heart took a battering.
I need to re-read ATOGAM very soon, especially knowing what we know now. K.L DeVore you are a genius, I love your world, the magic system and the characters (except some of course!) and I cannot wait to find out what happens next in both series.
"She was like me, living with a beast within us that was ready to unleash hell upon those who deserved it."
"The brutality of her blows was the result of years of repressed rage. No longer did she have to take others' abuse. No longer helpless. The little warrior that she was rose to the surface. Pride threatened to burst from my chest for her new empowerment."
Holy shit, this book is absolute perfection. Even though this book is part of the prequel series, you MUST read A Touch of Gold and Madness FIRST! Otherwise, you'll spoil that book for yourself, and the pain won't hit as hard.
This world right here is exactly why I love to read fantasy books. 6 freaking stars 🌟
We go back in time to see what happened before D-Day and all the events leading up to it. My emotions are all over the place - it's traumatic, it's painful and it's so fucking good. The foreshadowing, the links to ATOGAM and just everything is flawless.
Gray is still one of my favourite FMCs I've read about, from where she starts in this book, to where she ends at the end of ATOGAM is incredible. She is a badass.
I'm scared for what's to come, my jaw was literally on the floor at the end of this book. I just need my babies to be okay 😭 I cried throughout especially when reading about certain events, my poor heart took a battering.
I need to re-read ATOGAM very soon, especially knowing what we know now. K.L DeVore you are a genius, I love your world, the magic system and the characters (except some of course!) and I cannot wait to find out what happens next in both series.
"She was like me, living with a beast within us that was ready to unleash hell upon those who deserved it."
"The brutality of her blows was the result of years of repressed rage. No longer did she have to take others' abuse. No longer helpless. The little warrior that she was rose to the surface. Pride threatened to burst from my chest for her new empowerment."
November 8, 2024
4.5 solid stars!!!
“Make her happy and safe. That’s all I ask.” A line in this book that literally broke me!
This is a prequel time setting to the events before A Touch Of Gold and Madness, which you must read before this book. This beautifully tragic book will leave you feeling so many more emotions for all these characters. The found family in this book is truly like no other.
I know we’re all super impatient for book 2 but this prequel really needed to be told. I have never wanted to reach into a book and hug a character the way I do Chrome. Absolutely no child should ever have to endure what he’s been through. If I didn’t already know Grims fate after reading ATOGAM I would reach through this book and strangle him with my bare hands.
Getting to know the characters from the first book absolutely broke my heart knowing what I already know about them, we also got to meet Peri. I was not prepared for some of the information we got in this book, especially regarding Chrome’s mom, Amethyst. This book contains so dark subject matters that could be triggering, while it’s closed door it’s still stated on page.
We also get to see the relationship between Gray and Slate unfold, and let me tell you as much as I loved Slate my heart was shattering for Chrome. I knew they had a history based on the first book but I was not aware of how much they truly had, just to have those memories wiped from Gray by the last person I suspected.
This book will put you through a roller coaster of emotions that will literally leave you staring at the wall. We get so many questions answered and so many new ones…like Slate, he’s a what?!
“Make her happy and safe. That’s all I ask.” A line in this book that literally broke me!
This is a prequel time setting to the events before A Touch Of Gold and Madness, which you must read before this book. This beautifully tragic book will leave you feeling so many more emotions for all these characters. The found family in this book is truly like no other.
I know we’re all super impatient for book 2 but this prequel really needed to be told. I have never wanted to reach into a book and hug a character the way I do Chrome. Absolutely no child should ever have to endure what he’s been through. If I didn’t already know Grims fate after reading ATOGAM I would reach through this book and strangle him with my bare hands.
Getting to know the characters from the first book absolutely broke my heart knowing what I already know about them, we also got to meet Peri. I was not prepared for some of the information we got in this book, especially regarding Chrome’s mom, Amethyst. This book contains so dark subject matters that could be triggering, while it’s closed door it’s still stated on page.
We also get to see the relationship between Gray and Slate unfold, and let me tell you as much as I loved Slate my heart was shattering for Chrome. I knew they had a history based on the first book but I was not aware of how much they truly had, just to have those memories wiped from Gray by the last person I suspected.
This book will put you through a roller coaster of emotions that will literally leave you staring at the wall. We get so many questions answered and so many new ones…like Slate, he’s a what?!
November 11, 2024
To those who fight a constant battle with their darkness ———
our demons like to torment us for multiple series in our tales.
This book has my whole heart, soul&tears 🖤🥹
The story takes place 10 years before Devolution Day&is a prequel to A Touch of Gold&Madness (ATOGAM)
I absolutely adored that it was a dual POV; you hear the thoughts of Chrome, that we all got to love in ATOGAM, and Slate, who we knew of mostly through Gray’s eyes.
Getting to know more about Chrome, Slate, Gray, Hazel, Cotton, Onyx&Peri was beautiful&heartbreaking at the same time. I loved getting to know more about their friendships, how they all meet, their hopes&dreams and how much they cared about each other ❤️🔥
They might be teenagers, but have been, and are going, through a lot and I’ve rarely been able to relate more to fictional characters. Even some characters that I thought I had figured out in ATOGAM surprised me and are way more complex than I originally thought.
It was such a great idea to write this book before going straight to what will happen after the last events in ATOGAM and I can’t wait for the next book in this prequel serie.
To K.L. Devore; I can’t thank you enough for the opportunity to read the ARC of The Embrace of Steel&Sorrow and am excited for what is to come 🖤🫶🏽
P.S.: Pretty please check the trigger warnings for this one. Heavy themes are being brought up and might be very triggering to some🙏🏽
P.S. 2: don’t forget to check Spotify for ⚔️The Embrace or Steel&Sorrow Playlist ⚔️made by K.L. Devore
our demons like to torment us for multiple series in our tales.
This book has my whole heart, soul&tears 🖤🥹
The story takes place 10 years before Devolution Day&is a prequel to A Touch of Gold&Madness (ATOGAM)
I absolutely adored that it was a dual POV; you hear the thoughts of Chrome, that we all got to love in ATOGAM, and Slate, who we knew of mostly through Gray’s eyes.
Getting to know more about Chrome, Slate, Gray, Hazel, Cotton, Onyx&Peri was beautiful&heartbreaking at the same time. I loved getting to know more about their friendships, how they all meet, their hopes&dreams and how much they cared about each other ❤️🔥
They might be teenagers, but have been, and are going, through a lot and I’ve rarely been able to relate more to fictional characters. Even some characters that I thought I had figured out in ATOGAM surprised me and are way more complex than I originally thought.
It was such a great idea to write this book before going straight to what will happen after the last events in ATOGAM and I can’t wait for the next book in this prequel serie.
To K.L. Devore; I can’t thank you enough for the opportunity to read the ARC of The Embrace of Steel&Sorrow and am excited for what is to come 🖤🫶🏽
P.S.: Pretty please check the trigger warnings for this one. Heavy themes are being brought up and might be very triggering to some🙏🏽
P.S. 2: don’t forget to check Spotify for ⚔️The Embrace or Steel&Sorrow Playlist ⚔️made by K.L. Devore
December 12, 2025
Wow!
I gotta be honest and tell you I am not normally a fan of the "prequel" books but this was amazing! I loved getting the backstory of Chrome and Slate and ugh. My heart was just bursting the whole time with what was happening and knowing what happens in the first book.
I cannot wait to continue on with this series! If you love dark romantasy, this needs to be on your list.
** I know this says book #1 but you absolutley need to read a Touch of Gold & Madness before this one!**
I gotta be honest and tell you I am not normally a fan of the "prequel" books but this was amazing! I loved getting the backstory of Chrome and Slate and ugh. My heart was just bursting the whole time with what was happening and knowing what happens in the first book.
I cannot wait to continue on with this series! If you love dark romantasy, this needs to be on your list.
** I know this says book #1 but you absolutley need to read a Touch of Gold & Madness before this one!**
December 3, 2024
WOW!!!
This prequal broke my soul…it was binge worthy and I am desperate for the rest of the story STAT….I think I love chrome even more 🖤🖤…make sure you read a touch of gold and madness first to avoid spoilers…give this one all the stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ check your triggers
This prequal broke my soul…it was binge worthy and I am desperate for the rest of the story STAT….I think I love chrome even more 🖤🖤…make sure you read a touch of gold and madness first to avoid spoilers…give this one all the stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ check your triggers
March 24, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I’m torn, the first 80% of the book was unnecessary and repetitive and a 3 star at best. The last 20% was an absolute 5 star. If this book had been 200 pages, it would have been amazing.
Plus I really hate prequels.
I’m torn, the first 80% of the book was unnecessary and repetitive and a 3 star at best. The last 20% was an absolute 5 star. If this book had been 200 pages, it would have been amazing.
Plus I really hate prequels.
November 9, 2024
6⭐️ !!!!! I NEED THERAPY! There is so much to process here! She has done it again! My heart for Chrome and Gray!! AND SLATE!!!! WHAT IS GOING ON FOR SLATE🥺🥺 ugh! A rollercoaster as usual and I’m so grateful to be part of the ARC team!
February 6, 2025
5/5 ⭐️ | 📚 Nothing less than 5 stars for anything in this series. I am so invested in this story and in these characters. This prequel was devastating & all encompassing. ATOGAM has my heart & this just deepened my obsession. SO GOOD. I’m itching with anticipation for book 2.
July 1, 2025
Beta read and finished the ARC of the updated version.
KL the way you write is such a masterpiece. Holy shitaki mushrooms. Buckle up friends for this ride because this prequel will send your emotions into every direction possible. I am floored. GUTTED. It was amazing and gut wrenching all at the same time. You're were right... I would end up loving Slate in the end.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is a dark urban fantasy romance centered around heavy topics regarding trauma and mental health. Although the characters are aged as teens, this is not a young adult story. Please be sure to check content warnings before delving into the main characters' dark pasts from The Celestials of Arcadia.
Despite this is being a prequel I still suggest reading A Touch of Gold and Madness first to avoid spoilers for the characters you will meet.
KL the way you write is such a masterpiece. Holy shitaki mushrooms. Buckle up friends for this ride because this prequel will send your emotions into every direction possible. I am floored. GUTTED. It was amazing and gut wrenching all at the same time. You're were right... I would end up loving Slate in the end.
The Embrace of Steel and Sorrow is a dark urban fantasy romance centered around heavy topics regarding trauma and mental health. Although the characters are aged as teens, this is not a young adult story. Please be sure to check content warnings before delving into the main characters' dark pasts from The Celestials of Arcadia.
Despite this is being a prequel I still suggest reading A Touch of Gold and Madness first to avoid spoilers for the characters you will meet.
November 15, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ like I knew some of what was going to happen because of A touch of Gold & Madness obviously but it did not dampen the sting on pain that was inflicted on me while reading this. 🥲😭 loved getting to know our emo boy Chrome and Slates back story.
November 29, 2024
YOU THINK YOU KNOW PAIN AND SADNESS! YOU DONT UNTIL YOU READ THIS BOOK
i have never felt more heartbroken, sad, and angry for a character. chrome/griffin the man that you are. i was LITERALLY SICK TO MY STOMACH to finally understand what he went through. the more i think about it the more I WANNA VOMIT. the pain and suffering is on another level that no one deserves.
PLEASE check triggered warnings.
if you want to read this series please read ATOGAM FIRST! if you don’t you will get spoiled and it won’t give the same impact!!
K.L Devour is GENIUS! i can’t get over how comprehensive her world building is. the attention to detail and plot twists!!!!! plus the way you feel so hard for her characters. ATOGAM is prob my new favorite book of all time so i had a lot of expectations for this book AND SHE DELIVERED.
JAW DROPPED! GUT WRENCHED! TEARS SPILLED!
this was def one of the most difficult books to read and i feel like a piece of my soul was carved out for chrome and i will never get it back. I AM GUTTED FOR HIM and he deserves to be protected at all cost. i truly love him so much that one cannot comprehend. ALL OF HIS AND GRAYS INTERACTIONS! HIM SAYING GOODBYE! i need him to get a happy ending or else
i loved getting to finally know slate and he is truly a great guy BUT reading the scenes with him and gray made me feel like a jealous boyfriend. i will forever want chrome and gray to be together! i’m excited to see how these three navigate their relationships in the next book
i have never felt more heartbroken, sad, and angry for a character. chrome/griffin the man that you are. i was LITERALLY SICK TO MY STOMACH to finally understand what he went through. the more i think about it the more I WANNA VOMIT. the pain and suffering is on another level that no one deserves.
PLEASE check triggered warnings.
if you want to read this series please read ATOGAM FIRST! if you don’t you will get spoiled and it won’t give the same impact!!
K.L Devour is GENIUS! i can’t get over how comprehensive her world building is. the attention to detail and plot twists!!!!! plus the way you feel so hard for her characters. ATOGAM is prob my new favorite book of all time so i had a lot of expectations for this book AND SHE DELIVERED.
JAW DROPPED! GUT WRENCHED! TEARS SPILLED!
this was def one of the most difficult books to read and i feel like a piece of my soul was carved out for chrome and i will never get it back. I AM GUTTED FOR HIM and he deserves to be protected at all cost. i truly love him so much that one cannot comprehend. ALL OF HIS AND GRAYS INTERACTIONS! HIM SAYING GOODBYE! i need him to get a happy ending or else
i loved getting to finally know slate and he is truly a great guy BUT reading the scenes with him and gray made me feel like a jealous boyfriend. i will forever want chrome and gray to be together! i’m excited to see how these three navigate their relationships in the next book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews