What do you think?
Rate this book
The Mora Chronicles #1
Of Air and Fire
An enchanting journey where ominous forces test the uncertain power of love amid trials and tribulations.
At 19, Paige battles the harsh realities of her life—an alcoholic mother, financial struggles, and a job that just barely keeps the lights on. Aeden Flynn, her next-door neighbor and best friend, offers unwavering support. However, one tragic night catapults them both into a world of magic and self-discovery.
Separated by unforeseen events, Aeden and Paige grapple with the unknown in a world they never knew existed. Their connection, a guiding light in both worlds, becomes their lifeline as they fight to reunite. Will their bond withstand the many new challenges they must face, or will they be forever changed?
At 19, Paige battles the harsh realities of her life—an alcoholic mother, financial struggles, and a job that just barely keeps the lights on. Aeden Flynn, her next-door neighbor and best friend, offers unwavering support. However, one tragic night catapults them both into a world of magic and self-discovery.
Separated by unforeseen events, Aeden and Paige grapple with the unknown in a world they never knew existed. Their connection, a guiding light in both worlds, becomes their lifeline as they fight to reunite. Will their bond withstand the many new challenges they must face, or will they be forever changed?
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 4, 2024
113 people are currently reading
1783 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 16, 2024
⭐️🔥🥵😍❤️🔥
"Tell me to stop," he dared 🤤
DROOLING OVER AEDEN!
His love for Paige is unmatched from scene one. This book had it all!!!! Dragons, fae, friends-to-lovers, snarky friends, elemental magic, fallen kingdom.
“Great. So now I’m on a fucking quest with a ginger elf from Lord of the Rings”
"Even with things as fucked up as they are right now, I couldn't be more obsessed with you if I tried. I'm so in love with you, with everything you do and who you are that I would burn the world beyond these four walls down just to stay here with you a few more minutes. Because this," —he motioned between us with his hand- "being here with you, is what is real. And that's a world I won't ever survive without”
"Tell me to stop," he dared 🤤
DROOLING OVER AEDEN!
His love for Paige is unmatched from scene one. This book had it all!!!! Dragons, fae, friends-to-lovers, snarky friends, elemental magic, fallen kingdom.
“Great. So now I’m on a fucking quest with a ginger elf from Lord of the Rings”
"Even with things as fucked up as they are right now, I couldn't be more obsessed with you if I tried. I'm so in love with you, with everything you do and who you are that I would burn the world beyond these four walls down just to stay here with you a few more minutes. Because this," —he motioned between us with his hand- "being here with you, is what is real. And that's a world I won't ever survive without”
May 3, 2024
This is a NA fantasy perfect for lovers of fae lore, mythical creatures and deadly trials! 😍
We follow the story of Paige who has a struggling past, raised by a single alcoholic mother. While Aeden is a college sports guy who grew up in foster care and made his own life through hard work & sacrifices. As these two friends begin to fall for one another, they unexpectedly find themselves travelling through a magic portal. They end up in a new world, Aellethia, where Aeden gets separated from Paige and elemental magic exists. As we discover that Aeden holds the power of the banned element, fire, I couldn’t put the book down!
These two star crossed lovers must battle through a magical world filled with beasts in order to find each other. I’m a sucker for stories with deadly trials, I love the thrill of it! I’m also a big fan of romance, but it slows down a bit once the two are separated, the ending was shocking and I can’t wait to see what will happen between them in the sequel 👀 Aeden never gives up on finding Paige (I love a persistent man!). Friendship is an important element of the story (love a well done found family trope!).
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
We follow the story of Paige who has a struggling past, raised by a single alcoholic mother. While Aeden is a college sports guy who grew up in foster care and made his own life through hard work & sacrifices. As these two friends begin to fall for one another, they unexpectedly find themselves travelling through a magic portal. They end up in a new world, Aellethia, where Aeden gets separated from Paige and elemental magic exists. As we discover that Aeden holds the power of the banned element, fire, I couldn’t put the book down!
These two star crossed lovers must battle through a magical world filled with beasts in order to find each other. I’m a sucker for stories with deadly trials, I love the thrill of it! I’m also a big fan of romance, but it slows down a bit once the two are separated, the ending was shocking and I can’t wait to see what will happen between them in the sequel 👀 Aeden never gives up on finding Paige (I love a persistent man!). Friendship is an important element of the story (love a well done found family trope!).
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy for review
September 26, 2024
FIRST OF ALL--that ball scene?! UGH--so in love with Aeden y’all, the slowburn buildup is unreal. This story had me immersed from the start and unable to put it down til it was devoured entirely. The character development in particular was so compelling—I absolutely adore character driven books. Also, I LOVE a good cliffy so you can bet I’ll be continuing this series!
What to Expect:
—Friends to Lovers
—Touch her and D!e
—Dual POV
—Angsty Romance
—Deadly Trials
—Found Family
—Elemental Magic
—Mythical Creatures
Of Air and Fire is perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, and Fourth Wing! Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
What to Expect:
—Friends to Lovers
—Touch her and D!e
—Dual POV
—Angsty Romance
—Deadly Trials
—Found Family
—Elemental Magic
—Mythical Creatures
Of Air and Fire is perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, ACOTAR, and Fourth Wing! Thank you so much to the author for sending me a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.
June 30, 2024
First of all thank you E.S.Portman for gifting me an arc for a completely honest review.
Give me a man that loves me as Aeden loves Paige and you will never hear from me again. Why? Because I will be dead from how happy my life would be. Paige and Aeden were so cute, both their povs well crafted and on point. I usually don't read friends-to-lovers not because I don't like it but simply because I rarely come across books with that trope. Well this book made me want to read more of those now.
Aeden is both a gentleman and a dirty talker for his girl and his girl only. Paige is someone that would do anything to be with him again and this- this my friends is what I like to see in books. Portman's pen is relatively light and flows well most of the times. I do admit that between 20% and 30% the book felt a bit slow, but that's because of the world building of this world and not because of the plot.
Talking about the plot. think of it as a Harry Potter finds out he's a wizard x how to train your dragon (parts in the arena where he outsmarts everyone and becomes the first of the class) x the last Airbender. Just that instead of Harry you're a wizard, we have: Paige, you're a Fae Princess that needs to fight if you wish to remain alive.
I liked each character (Taking out daddy dearest ofc, If someone tries to say they liked him I will respectfully hunt you down and threaten you to please change your mind, thank you) They were relatable, flawed and each driven by a different kind of ambition. With my favorites being Eoghan and Seamus.
In terms of spice🌶️? 1 max. Even if I did hear that book 2 will have much more romance and spice.👀
That ending? Illegal. I need book two because it can't end that way, not after everything these two went through.
Attention tho. There are some trigger warnings that are.
-One scene with violence against a child.
-Some violent scenes with some swearing.
-Near sexual scenes.
general rating: 4⭐️
Give me a man that loves me as Aeden loves Paige and you will never hear from me again. Why? Because I will be dead from how happy my life would be. Paige and Aeden were so cute, both their povs well crafted and on point. I usually don't read friends-to-lovers not because I don't like it but simply because I rarely come across books with that trope. Well this book made me want to read more of those now.
Aeden is both a gentleman and a dirty talker for his girl and his girl only. Paige is someone that would do anything to be with him again and this- this my friends is what I like to see in books. Portman's pen is relatively light and flows well most of the times. I do admit that between 20% and 30% the book felt a bit slow, but that's because of the world building of this world and not because of the plot.
Talking about the plot. think of it as a Harry Potter finds out he's a wizard x how to train your dragon (parts in the arena where he outsmarts everyone and becomes the first of the class) x the last Airbender. Just that instead of Harry you're a wizard, we have: Paige, you're a Fae Princess that needs to fight if you wish to remain alive.
I liked each character (Taking out daddy dearest ofc, If someone tries to say they liked him I will respectfully hunt you down and threaten you to please change your mind, thank you) They were relatable, flawed and each driven by a different kind of ambition. With my favorites being Eoghan and Seamus.
In terms of spice🌶️? 1 max. Even if I did hear that book 2 will have much more romance and spice.👀
That ending? Illegal. I need book two because it can't end that way, not after everything these two went through.
Attention tho. There are some trigger warnings that are.
-One scene with violence against a child.
-Some violent scenes with some swearing.
-Near sexual scenes.
general rating: 4⭐️
October 31, 2024
Wow!!!
Absolutely loved it. I don't know why it took me so long. This book was so good from begginjng to end. From the story to the characters and more. Oh, how i have enjoyed this crazy ride. I can't wait to continue on and see what else is there to come for Paige and Aeden!!!!!!
Absolutely loved it. I don't know why it took me so long. This book was so good from begginjng to end. From the story to the characters and more. Oh, how i have enjoyed this crazy ride. I can't wait to continue on and see what else is there to come for Paige and Aeden!!!!!!
January 7, 2025
This book was interesting but also seemed a bit amateurish. Many things seemed just too convenient. Like they conveniently only ran into people that became their friends and wanted to help them. I also didn’t like how many things weren’t explained and still aren’t even after the first book. Things I feel like we should know by now. About her mother and father and their backstory. Still want to know what happens and I like the characters.
November 2, 2024
3.5 stars
The story is fine, but it has some weaknesses regarding pacing and storytelling. Also, I'm not a huge fan of the "only 3 weeks to train for a deadly contest and quickly excelling" trope. Plus the ending was sloppily written and left me with some unanswered questions as to how it came to be that way.
The story is fine, but it has some weaknesses regarding pacing and storytelling. Also, I'm not a huge fan of the "only 3 weeks to train for a deadly contest and quickly excelling" trope. Plus the ending was sloppily written and left me with some unanswered questions as to how it came to be that way.
June 26, 2024
"If we start this, I don't know how I'll ever stop."
Thank you E.S. Portman for the gifted arc!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
✨friends to lovers
✨elemental magic
✨romantic fantasy
✨fae
✨dual POV
Wow, this book had me hooked from the start! I had so much fun reading this book and couldn’t put it down 🤭 we start off in a college town in our modern world, but are quickly thrust into a fantastical world full of fae, magic, and creatures! The world-building was so well done with plenty of suspense as we learned about this world with the main characters!
I really loved how this story progressed! There were so many twists and turns that left my jaw on the floor 😌 the ending had me like 😭😩😳 I also really enjoyed our minor characters and how these new relationships developed as our mcs learned about this new world 🫶
Paige, our fmc, has faced many struggles in her life but does what she needs to in order to survive. This girl is resilient and determined! No matter what life throws her way, she fights back. We start the book off with a tragic event in Paige’s life, and she still manages to work past her grief and fight for survival when she is thrown into a new world. My heart broke for her so many times throughout this book bc she just can’t catch a break 💔
“I didn't have time to be weak anymore. Fight or die, those were my choices, and I was going to live.”
And then we have our mmc, Aeden ❤️ add him to my list of book boyfriends ✍️ aeden has also had to struggle through life and fend for himself. He is levelheaded (unless it comes to Paige 🤭) and so so so caring! He would do anything for the one person he loves more than anything, even if that means risking his life. Also loved how possessive he is 👀
“I was hers, no one else could fill the part of my heart that was solely hers and hers alone.”
The romance was so sweet 😭 these two were just meant to be together from the start. Normally I’m more of an enemies to lovers gal, but the friends to lovers here was so good 😩 the tension at the beginning as they fight their deeper feelings 🤌 the possessiveness 🤌 fighting to the death (literally) for each other 🤌
"I'm here now, and you have me. All of me. Not just tonight, but all of my nights. I want all of my days to be consumed with thoughts of you, and all of my nights showing you just how fucking much I have been thinking about you, and only you."
Thank you E.S. Portman for the gifted arc!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
✨friends to lovers
✨elemental magic
✨romantic fantasy
✨fae
✨dual POV
Wow, this book had me hooked from the start! I had so much fun reading this book and couldn’t put it down 🤭 we start off in a college town in our modern world, but are quickly thrust into a fantastical world full of fae, magic, and creatures! The world-building was so well done with plenty of suspense as we learned about this world with the main characters!
I really loved how this story progressed! There were so many twists and turns that left my jaw on the floor 😌 the ending had me like 😭😩😳 I also really enjoyed our minor characters and how these new relationships developed as our mcs learned about this new world 🫶
Paige, our fmc, has faced many struggles in her life but does what she needs to in order to survive. This girl is resilient and determined! No matter what life throws her way, she fights back. We start the book off with a tragic event in Paige’s life, and she still manages to work past her grief and fight for survival when she is thrown into a new world. My heart broke for her so many times throughout this book bc she just can’t catch a break 💔
“I didn't have time to be weak anymore. Fight or die, those were my choices, and I was going to live.”
And then we have our mmc, Aeden ❤️ add him to my list of book boyfriends ✍️ aeden has also had to struggle through life and fend for himself. He is levelheaded (unless it comes to Paige 🤭) and so so so caring! He would do anything for the one person he loves more than anything, even if that means risking his life. Also loved how possessive he is 👀
“I was hers, no one else could fill the part of my heart that was solely hers and hers alone.”
The romance was so sweet 😭 these two were just meant to be together from the start. Normally I’m more of an enemies to lovers gal, but the friends to lovers here was so good 😩 the tension at the beginning as they fight their deeper feelings 🤌 the possessiveness 🤌 fighting to the death (literally) for each other 🤌
"I'm here now, and you have me. All of me. Not just tonight, but all of my nights. I want all of my days to be consumed with thoughts of you, and all of my nights showing you just how fucking much I have been thinking about you, and only you."
May 11, 2024
Spice rating: 1
Of Air and Fire is the unputdownable first book of a new adult fantasy series that has all the elements to become a favorite read of mine.
The story follows two best friends, Aeden and Paige, who stick together through life's biggest challenges but hesitate to admit to the true depth of their feelings for one another (queue the friends to lovers angst!) When they finally find the courage to act on their feelings, life throws them another curveball. They cross into a portal, and are thus divided within a fantasy world. Aeden must reunite with Paige, and Paige must survive the deadly trials her long-lost father wants her to compete in...with no intention of letting her win.
If you liked the competition aspect of The Hunger Games and the elemental magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender, then you will be as obsessed with this story as I was! The world-building was incredibly well done--especially considering this is just the first book and there is so much more to discover! I loved the concept of the magic linked to the tattoos and the abundance of magical creatures, including but not limited to fae, mermaids and dragons! But what I was most impressed with was the underlying political drama that was so embedded into the magic of the land. Every character is touched by it, which enriched the plot greatly!
The characters were a delight! Paige and Aeden were great leads, and I loved them as individuals and also as a couple. I know the friends to lovers trope is a hit or miss for some, but I find there's few tropes that hit as hard as a well developed friends to lovers dynamic, and this one was it! The dedication, the love, the angst and longing... I was under a spell, and am definitely rooting for this couple to prevail. But I was also a big fan of the found family dynamic that shone especially in Aeden's chapters with his traveling party.
The ending on the book has several great plot twists that I'm very excited to explore in more detail in the next books. Word on the street is that the sequel will also have much more romance (and spice 👀). Cannot wait!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
Of Air and Fire is the unputdownable first book of a new adult fantasy series that has all the elements to become a favorite read of mine.
The story follows two best friends, Aeden and Paige, who stick together through life's biggest challenges but hesitate to admit to the true depth of their feelings for one another (queue the friends to lovers angst!) When they finally find the courage to act on their feelings, life throws them another curveball. They cross into a portal, and are thus divided within a fantasy world. Aeden must reunite with Paige, and Paige must survive the deadly trials her long-lost father wants her to compete in...with no intention of letting her win.
If you liked the competition aspect of The Hunger Games and the elemental magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender, then you will be as obsessed with this story as I was! The world-building was incredibly well done--especially considering this is just the first book and there is so much more to discover! I loved the concept of the magic linked to the tattoos and the abundance of magical creatures, including but not limited to fae, mermaids and dragons! But what I was most impressed with was the underlying political drama that was so embedded into the magic of the land. Every character is touched by it, which enriched the plot greatly!
The characters were a delight! Paige and Aeden were great leads, and I loved them as individuals and also as a couple. I know the friends to lovers trope is a hit or miss for some, but I find there's few tropes that hit as hard as a well developed friends to lovers dynamic, and this one was it! The dedication, the love, the angst and longing... I was under a spell, and am definitely rooting for this couple to prevail. But I was also a big fan of the found family dynamic that shone especially in Aeden's chapters with his traveling party.
The ending on the book has several great plot twists that I'm very excited to explore in more detail in the next books. Word on the street is that the sequel will also have much more romance (and spice 👀). Cannot wait!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
May 8, 2024
This book is yet another demonstration of why friends to lovers is a severely underrated trope and why I love it the way I do.
OF AIR AND FIRE, book 1 in The Mora Chronicles, follows best friends Paige and Aeden. It starts off in our world, and the two actually have feelings for each other. Aeden is there for Paige always, even in the most trying of times of her mother’s illness. And right when the two act on those feelings—right when there’s a kiss between them—they step through a mysterious portal that leads them into a completely different world. Not only they’re in an unfamiliar environment and have no idea what’s going on, they’re also separated! While Paige meets her long lost father and is thrust into a deadly trial for the throne—that surprisingly her father does NOT want her to win—Aeden undergoes a quest to find Paige, and in the process he discovers powers he didn’t know he had.
Think the deadly games of The Hunger Games meets the elemental magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender, but in a world with familiar fantasy creatures like fae, mermaids and dragons, and you have the vibe of this book. The fast pace, coupled with my need to see Paige and Aeden reunite, made me fly through the pages. The reason I love the friends to lovers trope so much is all the angst that comes with the fear of ruining a relationship, the knowledge acquired through time of the other person, the love that blooms despite seeing the good and the bad. It’s perfect! What made this particular friends to lovers even more compelling is the fact that these two go through a lot to be reunited. Aedon loves Paige so deeply that I melt inside.
I’m looking forward to seeing how the series continues, as I get the feeling it will lean more and more into the adult side, too!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
OF AIR AND FIRE, book 1 in The Mora Chronicles, follows best friends Paige and Aeden. It starts off in our world, and the two actually have feelings for each other. Aeden is there for Paige always, even in the most trying of times of her mother’s illness. And right when the two act on those feelings—right when there’s a kiss between them—they step through a mysterious portal that leads them into a completely different world. Not only they’re in an unfamiliar environment and have no idea what’s going on, they’re also separated! While Paige meets her long lost father and is thrust into a deadly trial for the throne—that surprisingly her father does NOT want her to win—Aeden undergoes a quest to find Paige, and in the process he discovers powers he didn’t know he had.
Think the deadly games of The Hunger Games meets the elemental magic of Avatar: The Last Airbender, but in a world with familiar fantasy creatures like fae, mermaids and dragons, and you have the vibe of this book. The fast pace, coupled with my need to see Paige and Aeden reunite, made me fly through the pages. The reason I love the friends to lovers trope so much is all the angst that comes with the fear of ruining a relationship, the knowledge acquired through time of the other person, the love that blooms despite seeing the good and the bad. It’s perfect! What made this particular friends to lovers even more compelling is the fact that these two go through a lot to be reunited. Aedon loves Paige so deeply that I melt inside.
I’m looking forward to seeing how the series continues, as I get the feeling it will lean more and more into the adult side, too!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a copy. Opinions are my own.
September 22, 2024
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Modern to Fantasy realm
Elemental magic/powers
Hidden identity
Mythical creatures
Deadly trials
Cinnamon roll MMC
Dual POV
In modern day, Paige and Aeden are best friend neighbors. Both having rough upbringings. After the death of Paige's mother, a mysterious owl appears, leading the the two to a vortex the transports them both to a fantasy realm.
Paige finds herself as a royal heir, to the air-welding father she never knew. He's brought her to his realm to compete in the Triad, a set of trials to decide if Paige is worthy of unsetting her father. However, he's sadistic and untrustworthy.
Aeden appears in the land of water-welders, accidentally discovering he's a fire-welder. Befriending a mermaid and a man named Seamus, the trio makes their way to find Paige, as Aeden is desperately in love with her.
Aeden is the perfect book boyfriend! He would literally burn down the world in his efforts to reunite with Paige. Every move he makes. Everything he does is for her. 😍 I enjoyed his journey and his budding relationships with Seamus, Shay and Murrie. And that cliffhanger!
I enjoyed Paige. She's also wanting to find Aeden but I feel like her concern is also on herself and eventually the people. She's a fighter, a survivor.
Overall, this story has Harry Potter Goblet of Fire, Hunger Games, and Divergent vibes. And that cliffhanger, I did not see coming!!!
Friends to lovers
Modern to Fantasy realm
Elemental magic/powers
Hidden identity
Mythical creatures
Deadly trials
Cinnamon roll MMC
Dual POV
In modern day, Paige and Aeden are best friend neighbors. Both having rough upbringings. After the death of Paige's mother, a mysterious owl appears, leading the the two to a vortex the transports them both to a fantasy realm.
Paige finds herself as a royal heir, to the air-welding father she never knew. He's brought her to his realm to compete in the Triad, a set of trials to decide if Paige is worthy of unsetting her father. However, he's sadistic and untrustworthy.
Aeden appears in the land of water-welders, accidentally discovering he's a fire-welder. Befriending a mermaid and a man named Seamus, the trio makes their way to find Paige, as Aeden is desperately in love with her.
Aeden is the perfect book boyfriend! He would literally burn down the world in his efforts to reunite with Paige. Every move he makes. Everything he does is for her. 😍 I enjoyed his journey and his budding relationships with Seamus, Shay and Murrie. And that cliffhanger!
I enjoyed Paige. She's also wanting to find Aeden but I feel like her concern is also on herself and eventually the people. She's a fighter, a survivor.
Overall, this story has Harry Potter Goblet of Fire, Hunger Games, and Divergent vibes. And that cliffhanger, I did not see coming!!!
April 30, 2024
Of air and Fire is a story of journey, power, love, and elemental magic. I thought this was such an interesting story. I loved reading about Paige and her strength, even when she believes she doesn't have any. Aeden also intrigued me and I can't wait to read more in the series!
April 17, 2024
Dive into Of Air and Fire, where the trials of life meld seamlessly with the mysteries of magic, crafting an enchanting tale of resilience and revelation. Paige, grappling with everyday adversities like an alcoholic mother and financial woes, finds solace and steadfast support in her best friend and neighbor, Aeden Flynn.
Their mundane world is shattered one fateful night, thrusting them into a realm brimming with magic and danger. As Paige and Aeden are torn apart by magical forces, their enduring bond becomes their beacon through the darkness, challenging them to overcome and reunite despite the magical and moral trials they face.
This novel weaves a good narrative of elemental magic and mythical beings, set against the backdrop of both the all-too-real and the fantastical. The inclusion of elemental tattoos and portals adds a unique flair to the classic magic adventure, enticing fans of fae lore and combat trials.
However, there's a bit of repetitive language, dragging parts, and some of Paige's characterization needs more work. Despite these hitches, Aeden’s character shines brightly, promising further depths to be explored in future installments of the series. Overall, enjoyable read!
Thanks for the ARC!
Their mundane world is shattered one fateful night, thrusting them into a realm brimming with magic and danger. As Paige and Aeden are torn apart by magical forces, their enduring bond becomes their beacon through the darkness, challenging them to overcome and reunite despite the magical and moral trials they face.
This novel weaves a good narrative of elemental magic and mythical beings, set against the backdrop of both the all-too-real and the fantastical. The inclusion of elemental tattoos and portals adds a unique flair to the classic magic adventure, enticing fans of fae lore and combat trials.
However, there's a bit of repetitive language, dragging parts, and some of Paige's characterization needs more work. Despite these hitches, Aeden’s character shines brightly, promising further depths to be explored in future installments of the series. Overall, enjoyable read!
Thanks for the ARC!
April 2, 2024
Paige & Aeden lived their young lives as normal humans with human drama. Paige lived in poverty caring for a sick parent ; whereas Aeden lived in foster care and finally broke free if the system at the age of 18. These friends find themselves in a new world where magic is key and the type of magic you possess will determine your fate in life.
This book had all the ingredients needed for a page turning Fantasy.
World Building
Elemental Magic
Dragons
Fae
Friends to Lovers
Take a journey with Paige and Aeden as they cross the line from friends to lover as well as navigating through this thing called life in a new world faced with new challenges. Being human probably ain't that bad afterall...huh
This book had all the ingredients needed for a page turning Fantasy.
World Building
Elemental Magic
Dragons
Fae
Friends to Lovers
Take a journey with Paige and Aeden as they cross the line from friends to lover as well as navigating through this thing called life in a new world faced with new challenges. Being human probably ain't that bad afterall...huh
August 6, 2024
3/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️
I wanted to love this book so so bad, but I struggled through it a lot.
So let’s start out with some of the things I struggled with:
1. The two MC’s, Aeden and Paige, who live in our human world follow a random owl to a MAGICAL FREAKING PORTAL in the middle of the woods, end up in a FREAKING MAGICAL KINGDOM, and just BOOM accept it all like it’s totally normal. Like I don’t know about yall but I would think I’m crazy or at least be a little surprised if all the sudden there were mystical creatures walking around, or I JUST GOT TRANSPORTED TO A WHOLE NEW WORLD!!
2. Not only do they roll with their new reality, but they both pick up on the magic they have ridiculously fast. Like I feel like there should be some level of a learning curve… not one week of reaching pro levels.
3. And then Paige, who was raised by her single Mom ends up meeting her Dad, and shocker… DOESN’T QUESTION IT AT ALL!!! I mean she doesn’t even talk about how much they resemble each other or anything either…. Just all the sudden is like “yep this major douche bag is definitely my Dad.”
4. And then lastly, this might be me, but it was weird having Aeden and Paige already be into each other and have a relatively established relationship from the beginning of the book. I think I could have dealt with this if I saw their relationship grow even more throughout the book, but instead all the sudden Aeden just accepts he’s in love with Paige.
And then they hardly interact at all in the book…. So they have this “deep connection” that you only get a glimpse of, but are expected to accept. I just need more development I guess? I mean literally their one interaction in the magical world is a DISASTER and incredibly short lived.
The overall plot of this book is interesting, and I did enjoy a lot of the side characters. I think their is a lot a lot a lot of potential here, and although this first book isn’t my fav, I would definitely be willing to read the next one in hopes of getting the character growth I missed out on in this first book.
1/5 🌶️
I wanted to love this book so so bad, but I struggled through it a lot.
So let’s start out with some of the things I struggled with:
1. The two MC’s, Aeden and Paige, who live in our human world follow a random owl to a MAGICAL FREAKING PORTAL in the middle of the woods, end up in a FREAKING MAGICAL KINGDOM, and just BOOM accept it all like it’s totally normal. Like I don’t know about yall but I would think I’m crazy or at least be a little surprised if all the sudden there were mystical creatures walking around, or I JUST GOT TRANSPORTED TO A WHOLE NEW WORLD!!
2. Not only do they roll with their new reality, but they both pick up on the magic they have ridiculously fast. Like I feel like there should be some level of a learning curve… not one week of reaching pro levels.
3. And then Paige, who was raised by her single Mom ends up meeting her Dad, and shocker… DOESN’T QUESTION IT AT ALL!!! I mean she doesn’t even talk about how much they resemble each other or anything either…. Just all the sudden is like “yep this major douche bag is definitely my Dad.”
4. And then lastly, this might be me, but it was weird having Aeden and Paige already be into each other and have a relatively established relationship from the beginning of the book. I think I could have dealt with this if I saw their relationship grow even more throughout the book, but instead all the sudden Aeden just accepts he’s in love with Paige.
And then they hardly interact at all in the book…. So they have this “deep connection” that you only get a glimpse of, but are expected to accept. I just need more development I guess? I mean literally their one interaction in the magical world is a DISASTER and incredibly short lived.
The overall plot of this book is interesting, and I did enjoy a lot of the side characters. I think their is a lot a lot a lot of potential here, and although this first book isn’t my fav, I would definitely be willing to read the next one in hopes of getting the character growth I missed out on in this first book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2024
Completely biased here, but this book is 🔥
Literally.
Literally.
July 5, 2024
This book was a perfect example of why I love to go into books blind!
At the start I thought this was going to be a small town best friends turned lovers romance with some touchy trauma elements… and then the main characters, Paige and Aeden, followed a magical owl through a purple portal and that theory went out the window lol We went from touching tongues to jumping through portals and I’m not even mad about it!
This book had everything from childhood trauma, to new found family, fae’s, magical creatures, quests, trials, humor, heartbreak, and a shady ass fool who calls himself a king. Honestly, this gave me major hunger games meets divergent series vibes (which are two of my favorite series). The slow burn is still burning, but the way Aeden Loves Paige still has my heart ablaze. He literally traveled through a portal to an unknown world, learned to wield magic and came face to face with a monster who wants him dead all In the hopes of reuniting with Paige after they got separated!!! And that cliff hanger at the end tore my heart apart 💔
The character development throughout this book was truly phenomenal, I even became attached to the side characters! The world building was great And the progression of the story was perfectly timed, I loved how everything started unraveling towards the end and the pieces all started clicking together. My mouth fell open multiple times, I cursed Gedeon the F out during that last trial, and Aeden’s final 2 chapters had me kicking and screaming from joy and anger.
I gave this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and am highly anticipating the next installment🙌🏽
Thank you E.S. Portman for gifting me this story 🫶🏽
At the start I thought this was going to be a small town best friends turned lovers romance with some touchy trauma elements… and then the main characters, Paige and Aeden, followed a magical owl through a purple portal and that theory went out the window lol We went from touching tongues to jumping through portals and I’m not even mad about it!
This book had everything from childhood trauma, to new found family, fae’s, magical creatures, quests, trials, humor, heartbreak, and a shady ass fool who calls himself a king. Honestly, this gave me major hunger games meets divergent series vibes (which are two of my favorite series). The slow burn is still burning, but the way Aeden Loves Paige still has my heart ablaze. He literally traveled through a portal to an unknown world, learned to wield magic and came face to face with a monster who wants him dead all In the hopes of reuniting with Paige after they got separated!!! And that cliff hanger at the end tore my heart apart 💔
The character development throughout this book was truly phenomenal, I even became attached to the side characters! The world building was great And the progression of the story was perfectly timed, I loved how everything started unraveling towards the end and the pieces all started clicking together. My mouth fell open multiple times, I cursed Gedeon the F out during that last trial, and Aeden’s final 2 chapters had me kicking and screaming from joy and anger.
I gave this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and am highly anticipating the next installment🙌🏽
Thank you E.S. Portman for gifting me this story 🫶🏽
October 30, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This book was so fun! I LOVED the character development from both Paige and Aeden. They dive into the world of Aellethia together but end up having completely different experiences which shape their view of this new world and their purpose in life beyond each other.
The first couple of chapters I wasn’t sure I was reading a fantasy book. It felt too real life with no idea how the fantasy world would come into play. Once in Aellethia our main characters grow both as individuals and as a couple so I wasn’t mad when the POV switched throughout the book.
The side characters were just as delightful if not more entertaining at times than our mains. At times you’re not sure if they are the good guys, the bad guys, or the in between. But each provide a different pillar of support for the main character as the they (mains) learn about this new world and about themselves.
The last couple of chapters felt a bit rushed. Or it could’ve just been me speed reading because I wanted to know how the story ended. Of course the ending left me speechless and wanting more. Will be reading book 2.
I docked .5 stars because I secretly hoped Gedeon had a better back story than just being a 100% dickhead out for power but it works for him and makes him a great villain.
This book was so fun! I LOVED the character development from both Paige and Aeden. They dive into the world of Aellethia together but end up having completely different experiences which shape their view of this new world and their purpose in life beyond each other.
The first couple of chapters I wasn’t sure I was reading a fantasy book. It felt too real life with no idea how the fantasy world would come into play. Once in Aellethia our main characters grow both as individuals and as a couple so I wasn’t mad when the POV switched throughout the book.
The side characters were just as delightful if not more entertaining at times than our mains. At times you’re not sure if they are the good guys, the bad guys, or the in between. But each provide a different pillar of support for the main character as the they (mains) learn about this new world and about themselves.
The last couple of chapters felt a bit rushed. Or it could’ve just been me speed reading because I wanted to know how the story ended. Of course the ending left me speechless and wanting more. Will be reading book 2.
I docked .5 stars because I secretly hoped Gedeon had a better back story than just being a 100% dickhead out for power but it works for him and makes him a great villain.
June 15, 2024
I really enjoyed the growth of this book. Aeden and Paige are friends then find this portal in the forest.
Aeden ends up in a bar with this new tattoo down his arm. 🔥
Paige finds herself in a castle also with this weird tattoo? 💨
Paige and Aeden go through their own journeys but find one another again. So much happens in this book between the two and apart. The ending though, 👀 whaaaaat? 🍷
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Elemental powers
🗡️ Friends to lovers
🗡️ Magical creatures
🗡️ Broken Kingdom
🗡️ Dual Pov
🐉
💨🔥🌱🌊
This was well written, with pretty good flow. I like the creativity of her story, and with the dual POV the detail in her next book is something to look forward to.
I’m excited to see where her next book goes!
Rate: 8/10
Aeden ends up in a bar with this new tattoo down his arm. 🔥
Paige finds herself in a castle also with this weird tattoo? 💨
Paige and Aeden go through their own journeys but find one another again. So much happens in this book between the two and apart. The ending though, 👀 whaaaaat? 🍷
🗡️ Found family
🗡️ Elemental powers
🗡️ Friends to lovers
🗡️ Magical creatures
🗡️ Broken Kingdom
🗡️ Dual Pov
🐉
💨🔥🌱🌊
This was well written, with pretty good flow. I like the creativity of her story, and with the dual POV the detail in her next book is something to look forward to.
I’m excited to see where her next book goes!
Rate: 8/10
July 4, 2024
Dragons? Check! Elemental magic? Check! New book boyfriend? Check!!
Books with elemental magic have fierce competition because of my love for the show Avatar: the Last Airbender. Of Air and Fire felt like a uniquely new take on a world based in elemental magic, and I loved this book. I cannot wait to continue the series and learn more about this world. I love that Paige struggles with anxiety. She felt so real and even more badass for it. And Aeden? Aeden stole my heart. I've always been more of an enemies-to-lovers fan, but this book changed my mind about friends-to-lovers. Their relationship had so much chemistry and tension and I. Am. Here. For. It.
So glad I don't have to wait long for book 2!!!
Books with elemental magic have fierce competition because of my love for the show Avatar: the Last Airbender. Of Air and Fire felt like a uniquely new take on a world based in elemental magic, and I loved this book. I cannot wait to continue the series and learn more about this world. I love that Paige struggles with anxiety. She felt so real and even more badass for it. And Aeden? Aeden stole my heart. I've always been more of an enemies-to-lovers fan, but this book changed my mind about friends-to-lovers. Their relationship had so much chemistry and tension and I. Am. Here. For. It.
So glad I don't have to wait long for book 2!!!
July 2, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The magical system was intriguing, and I am excited to learn more in the next one. I especially loved the castle scenes with Paige, where she was able to learn more. It's probably some of my favorite parts because I always love learning about how a place came to be the way it is.
I adored Paige and Aeden. You can tell how much he loves her, and I am a sucker for a man who's all about his love. The friends they made along the way have my heart, too. Especially the ones Aeden made.
That ending, though! I need the next book now 😅
I adored Paige and Aeden. You can tell how much he loves her, and I am a sucker for a man who's all about his love. The friends they made along the way have my heart, too. Especially the ones Aeden made.
That ending, though! I need the next book now 😅
July 10, 2024
📖BOOK REVIEW📖 4⭐️1.5🌶️
I would recommend this, and I will definitely read the second book🙌🏼
♥️Elemental magic
♥️Deadly trial
♥️Star crossed lovers
♥️Hidden identity
♥️Found family
♥️Friends to lovers
♥️dual pov
This book did a great job with world building. The connection between the two main character was absolutely swoon worthy😍 The two are thrusted into an unknown world, and must find their way back to each other. Aeden will stop at nothing to get back to Paige, to keep her safe.
While the book is NA, the story reads like a YA. So far there is very minimal spice😳 You can expect a lot more 🌶️ in the second😏
The story progressed at a quicker pace, and I think this is due to her having to explain the magical system, the history and political conflicts of her world quickly in the short amount of time. Which, in the end set the book up nicely for the second in the series. The book ends on a mild cliff hanger with a lot of unanswered questions and I cannot wait for the second book!! (Planned to be published in October)
This is a great read and I really enjoyed it!!
(My opinion will never mean a book
TW: Mention of alcohol use, drug use, child neglect and some violence. Anxious thoughts and panic attacks.
I would recommend this, and I will definitely read the second book🙌🏼
♥️Elemental magic
♥️Deadly trial
♥️Star crossed lovers
♥️Hidden identity
♥️Found family
♥️Friends to lovers
♥️dual pov
This book did a great job with world building. The connection between the two main character was absolutely swoon worthy😍 The two are thrusted into an unknown world, and must find their way back to each other. Aeden will stop at nothing to get back to Paige, to keep her safe.
While the book is NA, the story reads like a YA. So far there is very minimal spice😳 You can expect a lot more 🌶️ in the second😏
The story progressed at a quicker pace, and I think this is due to her having to explain the magical system, the history and political conflicts of her world quickly in the short amount of time. Which, in the end set the book up nicely for the second in the series. The book ends on a mild cliff hanger with a lot of unanswered questions and I cannot wait for the second book!! (Planned to be published in October)
This is a great read and I really enjoyed it!!
(My opinion will never mean a book
TW: Mention of alcohol use, drug use, child neglect and some violence. Anxious thoughts and panic attacks.
August 9, 2024
A picture perfect romantasy that had me in love with friends to lovers! (It’s currently my least favorite romance trope so that speaks volumes)
Paige and Aeden are such strong characters that being randomly thrown into a completely foreign realm with magic, fae, mermaids, dwarves, dragons isn’t a challenge. They’re both used to living to survive so they definitely cope with their new reality better than I would. And watching them find their people warmed my heart!
I was skeptical about the romance at first because it progressed pretty quickly but then I was like “no no no no! Go back!” And rooted for them.
And that ending?!!!! Good thing the next book isn’t so far away
Paige and Aeden are such strong characters that being randomly thrown into a completely foreign realm with magic, fae, mermaids, dwarves, dragons isn’t a challenge. They’re both used to living to survive so they definitely cope with their new reality better than I would. And watching them find their people warmed my heart!
I was skeptical about the romance at first because it progressed pretty quickly but then I was like “no no no no! Go back!” And rooted for them.
And that ending?!!!! Good thing the next book isn’t so far away
October 26, 2024
This book was absolutely amazing! I was obsessed from the beginning and was saddened when it ended. Thankfully I started it days before the second book came out and I can't wait to get my hands on it so I can continue the story and see what happens next. This book takes place in a far away land filled with other characters like mermaids, trolls, faes and more! The concept behind their tattoos and the powers they can wield is so cleaver and now I'm wondering which power I would be honored to have. I highly recommend giving this book a read and diving into this intricate and beautiful world that E.S. Portman has written about.
July 27, 2024
Of Air and Fire by E.S. Portman
✨REVIEW ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I am shook with the ending of this book. Thankfully I’m on the ARC team and only have to wait a short time for book 2 because I’m not sure I could wait much longer.
First off let’s talk about the world building. Of Air and Fire starts in the mortal world or realm but quickly moves to the world of Allethia. This world is so incredibly unique. I loved the different elements playing major roles in the different territories.
Paige- I love Paige, she has had a hard life in her short 19 years and yet she is still fierce and intelligent. When she faced with adversity, she doesn’t cower or freeze, she faces it all head on.
Aeden-can we say swoon…ugh he ticks all the MMC boxes for me. I love how protective he is of Paige. His love for her even when he is in the friend zone is what every girl dreams about. Not to mention my mental imagine of him is 🥵.
If you love romantasy with a slow burn and lots of action this book is for you! Read it today before Of Fire of Blood comes out this Fall.
✨REVIEW ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I am shook with the ending of this book. Thankfully I’m on the ARC team and only have to wait a short time for book 2 because I’m not sure I could wait much longer.
First off let’s talk about the world building. Of Air and Fire starts in the mortal world or realm but quickly moves to the world of Allethia. This world is so incredibly unique. I loved the different elements playing major roles in the different territories.
Paige- I love Paige, she has had a hard life in her short 19 years and yet she is still fierce and intelligent. When she faced with adversity, she doesn’t cower or freeze, she faces it all head on.
Aeden-can we say swoon…ugh he ticks all the MMC boxes for me. I love how protective he is of Paige. His love for her even when he is in the friend zone is what every girl dreams about. Not to mention my mental imagine of him is 🥵.
If you love romantasy with a slow burn and lots of action this book is for you! Read it today before Of Fire of Blood comes out this Fall.
September 7, 2024
This is actually my second read I wanted to read it before my I read the next one for my arc:)
I loved this book so much the story line action plot it works perfect. Paige grows up so much in this book but she had to because of her mom which I related to a lot and then when she gets thrown into her dads world with powers and the triad she grows up even more learning how to train and fight. I love how at first you think eoghan is going to be the love interest but in reality he is dating her brother “WHAT” that was a whole thing for her as well because she finally has family someone who cares about her and wants to met her unlike her dad aka the king total prick lol . Aeden on the other hand has a totally different journey meeting Seamus and Shay. Along his journey to find Paige and bring them back to the mortal world but in reality they are where there meant to be and they figure that out later. All in all I think this is an amazing read and I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy 💛☀️
I loved this book so much the story line action plot it works perfect. Paige grows up so much in this book but she had to because of her mom which I related to a lot and then when she gets thrown into her dads world with powers and the triad she grows up even more learning how to train and fight. I love how at first you think eoghan is going to be the love interest but in reality he is dating her brother “WHAT” that was a whole thing for her as well because she finally has family someone who cares about her and wants to met her unlike her dad aka the king total prick lol . Aeden on the other hand has a totally different journey meeting Seamus and Shay. Along his journey to find Paige and bring them back to the mortal world but in reality they are where there meant to be and they figure that out later. All in all I think this is an amazing read and I definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy 💛☀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2024
This book grabbed my full attention from start until finish! The romance was central to the plot, but it wasn’t the entire plot, which I really loved. Another thing I loved about this book is that the FMC and the MMC have different plot lines for the same goal; the dual POV was thought out so well. Paige’s trials also felt very quest-like, and I LOVE a fantasy with a quest. The side characters were fully developed, and while not fully revealed, I think the plot lines and all of the characters motivations are very well thought out.
July 11, 2024
Of Air and Fire by E.S. Portman is, in my opinion, the next massive hit fantasy novel. It has ALL the good things. Friends to lovers, world building, elemental magic, dragons, trials and a lost kingdom. What more could you ask for?!
Paige and Aeden are best friends and living in our current world. They are quickly transported to the Fae Realm, where the high fae have elemental powers (wind, water, air, fire).
Paige has had quite a few trials in her life, but those trials made her one of the most resilient FMCs. She approaches every challenge head on. Aeden is 100% the man who fell first and is wholeheartedly in love with Paige. He is completely level headed except when it comes Paige.
All of the side characters in the story are incredible and I’m excited to see some of them play a bigger part in book 2. Gedeon is a dick, but he’s a great villain so clearly the writing is good enough to make instantly hate him.
This story had so many twists, turns and jaw dropping moments and I just couldn’t put it down. The ending is a cliffhanger, but I know the next book is going to be completely amazing.
Thank you E.S. Portman for adding me to your ARC team!
Favorite Quotes - not my traditional type but it made me LOL: “Great. So now I’m on a fucking quest with a ginger elf from Lord of the Rings.”
“She was mine, and no one else had the right to touch her.”
Paige and Aeden are best friends and living in our current world. They are quickly transported to the Fae Realm, where the high fae have elemental powers (wind, water, air, fire).
Paige has had quite a few trials in her life, but those trials made her one of the most resilient FMCs. She approaches every challenge head on. Aeden is 100% the man who fell first and is wholeheartedly in love with Paige. He is completely level headed except when it comes Paige.
All of the side characters in the story are incredible and I’m excited to see some of them play a bigger part in book 2. Gedeon is a dick, but he’s a great villain so clearly the writing is good enough to make instantly hate him.
This story had so many twists, turns and jaw dropping moments and I just couldn’t put it down. The ending is a cliffhanger, but I know the next book is going to be completely amazing.
Thank you E.S. Portman for adding me to your ARC team!
Favorite Quotes - not my traditional type but it made me LOL: “Great. So now I’m on a fucking quest with a ginger elf from Lord of the Rings.”
“She was mine, and no one else had the right to touch her.”
August 22, 2024
✨ Book Review: Of Air and Fire by E.S. Portman ✨
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
If you’re a fan of The Winx Saga, Avatar: The Last Airbender, or any fae + dragon romantasy, you’re going to love Of Air and Fire, the first installment in The Mora Chronicles by E.S. Portman.
This book is packed with tropes that hit all the right notes—friends to lovers, found family, snarky banter, and a badass FMC with elemental Fae powers. The story kicks off with best friends Paige and Aeden, who are battling their growing feelings for each other. When Paige suffers a devastating loss, Aeden is there to help pick up the pieces. But just when they think they’ve figured out their place in the world, they’re thrust into a realm they should have been born into, where everything they thought they knew is turned upside down.
Aeden stole my heart—he’s a strong, protective character who believes in Paige’s potential and wants to keep her safe, even though he doesn’t think he deserves her. His journey to realizing he belongs in this new world as much as she does is incredibly satisfying. Paige, on the other hand, discovers unexpected truths about herself, only to be thrust into a fight for her very survival in a world she never even knew existed.
And just when you’re fully immersed in their story, Portman leaves you on a cliffhanger that will have you eagerly awaiting book two. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!
If you love stories where magic, romance, and self-discovery intertwine, this one’s for you.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
If you’re a fan of The Winx Saga, Avatar: The Last Airbender, or any fae + dragon romantasy, you’re going to love Of Air and Fire, the first installment in The Mora Chronicles by E.S. Portman.
This book is packed with tropes that hit all the right notes—friends to lovers, found family, snarky banter, and a badass FMC with elemental Fae powers. The story kicks off with best friends Paige and Aeden, who are battling their growing feelings for each other. When Paige suffers a devastating loss, Aeden is there to help pick up the pieces. But just when they think they’ve figured out their place in the world, they’re thrust into a realm they should have been born into, where everything they thought they knew is turned upside down.
Aeden stole my heart—he’s a strong, protective character who believes in Paige’s potential and wants to keep her safe, even though he doesn’t think he deserves her. His journey to realizing he belongs in this new world as much as she does is incredibly satisfying. Paige, on the other hand, discovers unexpected truths about herself, only to be thrust into a fight for her very survival in a world she never even knew existed.
And just when you’re fully immersed in their story, Portman leaves you on a cliffhanger that will have you eagerly awaiting book two. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them next!
If you love stories where magic, romance, and self-discovery intertwine, this one’s for you.
April 2, 2024
If you're looking for a book that has the vibes of Game of Thrones, Throne of Glass, and Fourth Wing... This book is for you.
A heartwarming story of found family and the fight to return to the one you love, I fell head first into the new fantasy world written by E.S. Portman. I will be honest, at first I felt a little difficulty getting into the book. But once the story took off, I couldn't put the book down. Leaving the readers on a cliffhanger is crazy, but it is leaving me wanting so much more!
I can't wait to read the next book of the series!
A heartwarming story of found family and the fight to return to the one you love, I fell head first into the new fantasy world written by E.S. Portman. I will be honest, at first I felt a little difficulty getting into the book. But once the story took off, I couldn't put the book down. Leaving the readers on a cliffhanger is crazy, but it is leaving me wanting so much more!
I can't wait to read the next book of the series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews