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The Coveted #2
Of Realms and Chaos
Asher Daniox was free. After being taken from her home and shown the treachery committed by the fae king and queen, the wayward princess is now determined to end the coming war before it begins. As loss and destruction follow her every step, she will be forced to seek alliances in a frantic attempt to save the innocents she believes she wronged for years. But when a new enemy emerges and others draw nearer, will that desperation tear down everything she has built for herself? And if she continues to let her fury take control, what will stop her from becoming the villain?
Bellamy Ayad was on borrowed time. Ever since he first saw Asher in Reader River, he knew he would give anything, be anything, to save her. Facing an enemy that shares his blood and fighting the end he knows is coming for him, the prince of two realms will find himself morphing back into the being who once let hatred rule his heart. With battles raging on his shores and devastation threatening to drown him, he still unfailingly seeks out Asher. But what will he sacrifice in order to secure his brief and epic love?
As worlds collide, hearts shatter, and lives are lost, both will face a choice that will alter the course of the future itself.
What will they do for their happily ever after?
Bellamy Ayad was on borrowed time. Ever since he first saw Asher in Reader River, he knew he would give anything, be anything, to save her. Facing an enemy that shares his blood and fighting the end he knows is coming for him, the prince of two realms will find himself morphing back into the being who once let hatred rule his heart. With battles raging on his shores and devastation threatening to drown him, he still unfailingly seeks out Asher. But what will he sacrifice in order to secure his brief and epic love?
As worlds collide, hearts shatter, and lives are lost, both will face a choice that will alter the course of the future itself.
What will they do for their happily ever after?
656 pages, Paperback
Published March 25, 2024
56 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Brea Lamb
4 books204 followersBrea has been obsessively reading since she was six years old, consuming any and all books she could get her hands on. Thus sparked the dream of creating something similar – a book that would make readers cry and laugh and smile and feel all those big emotions that she did. At nine-years-old, she wrote her first book. Over the years she would write many more, but it was not until Of Night and Blood that she finally felt the book she dreamed of writing had come to life. Since then, she has poured her soul into many more stories and has found herself in the process.
She spends her time advocating for human rights, drinking too much coffee, chasing around her children, and ordering new books for her endless TBR. She lives in the United States with her family
She spends her time advocating for human rights, drinking too much coffee, chasing around her children, and ordering new books for her endless TBR. She lives in the United States with her family
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
February 28, 2024
5 I Love You Wrathy Stars ⭐
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
Reading this book felt like finding a piece of my soul I didn't know was missing. It's hard to put into words how deeply this story and its characters resonate with me; and I don't know how to explain what the story, characters and everything inside its pages mean to my heart.
This sequel is even more amazing than Of Night and Blood, and I ABSOLUTELY loved that book. We get to see Asher grow and find herself, stepping out of the shadow of her parent's expectations and the gilded cage they kept her in. She's given the freedom to test her limits, figure out her relationships, push boundaries and make real strong connections with people, people who now see her for who she truly is, instead of the character she was forced to play.
This is VERY MUCH an intense character-focused story, so if you want something that is non-stop action - this might not be it for you. This book takes its time, diving deep into trauma and the emotions associated with that pain. There is so much emotional growth unpacked in layers and layers of human complexities and relationships - finding focus on situations dealing with the multifaceted scars of how past situations can shape a person's behaviour and actions, and how difficult it is to break out of that confined space of thinking.
This book does introduce a few more POV's into the story and specifically introduces Bellamy's side. Bellamy is perfect because he is imperfect. He will burn the world down for Asher, his love for her is selfish, and he possesses a heart-meltingly dirty mouth that's totally swoon-worthy. His mind is strikingly beautiful, making him literal perfection. But he is also flawed making him a very well-formed character. He knows where his faults are and where he has his limitations and is also aware of his blind spots. He doesn't play at being a perfect character which just make him so much more human and relatable, with one of the biggest hearts - He is just trying to do his best for Asher.
The relationship between Ash and Bell is complex...They both bear immense responsibility (literally being heirs to their thrones), both have kingdoms of innocents to protect and crucial decisions to make that impact not only their lives but their kingdoms as well. On top of this also have to navigate their personal relationship amidst all these burdens.
One of the best parts of the book is the side characters and how you feel like you are one of their found family. They all have formed this close-knit group that is the epitome of what you hope for in your family or group of friends. Support, love, care, affection and acceptance of who you are. Each of these side characters brings so much into the story, that you will cry your literal heart out when something happens to them. Trust me I know... I UGLY CRIED!!!!!!!! DAMMIT and I NEVER CRY WHEN READING
This book isn't just about the deep emotional stuff though. Brea has upped the ante and quite frankly the world-building in this sequel is nothing short of magnificent, introducing twists and turns that will keep you hooked and engaged. The reveals are precisely planned, but with them come new questions leaving you craving for more. I am so eager to see how these threads will intertwine in future books. There is also a big introduction of court dynamics that adds a layer of angst and intrinsic complexity to the story.
Overall I adore how Brea approached each aspect of this story with meticulous attention to detail, especially in the handling of difficult themes around trauma, recovery and emotional situations. It is just so many things! It's a stunning testament to how well a character-driven story can impact your life, heart and soul. It is a powerful message about breaking free of the shackles of your past and finding strength in your vulnerability. And it is a glimmer of hope, knowing what it truly means to form the bonds of a found family while coming to terms with the fact that you are no one's but your own.
If you have not done so already, pick up Of Night and Blood - and then read this! Because I promise this book will burrow itself into your heart and soul...like it did to me!
Trope Summary:
▶ Multi POV
▶ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
▶ Found Family
▶ Trauma Rep and Bonding
▶ Shadow Daddy
▶ Mental Health Rep
▶ Touch Her You Die
▶ Meddling gods
▶ The bestest grumpycat rat companion
▶ Political Intrigue
Thank you Brea Lamb for my gifted ARC copy.
All thoughts and opinions are my own
Spicy Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5
Reading this book felt like finding a piece of my soul I didn't know was missing. It's hard to put into words how deeply this story and its characters resonate with me; and I don't know how to explain what the story, characters and everything inside its pages mean to my heart.
This sequel is even more amazing than Of Night and Blood, and I ABSOLUTELY loved that book. We get to see Asher grow and find herself, stepping out of the shadow of her parent's expectations and the gilded cage they kept her in. She's given the freedom to test her limits, figure out her relationships, push boundaries and make real strong connections with people, people who now see her for who she truly is, instead of the character she was forced to play.
This is VERY MUCH an intense character-focused story, so if you want something that is non-stop action - this might not be it for you. This book takes its time, diving deep into trauma and the emotions associated with that pain. There is so much emotional growth unpacked in layers and layers of human complexities and relationships - finding focus on situations dealing with the multifaceted scars of how past situations can shape a person's behaviour and actions, and how difficult it is to break out of that confined space of thinking.
This book does introduce a few more POV's into the story and specifically introduces Bellamy's side. Bellamy is perfect because he is imperfect. He will burn the world down for Asher, his love for her is selfish, and he possesses a heart-meltingly dirty mouth that's totally swoon-worthy. His mind is strikingly beautiful, making him literal perfection. But he is also flawed making him a very well-formed character. He knows where his faults are and where he has his limitations and is also aware of his blind spots. He doesn't play at being a perfect character which just make him so much more human and relatable, with one of the biggest hearts - He is just trying to do his best for Asher.
The relationship between Ash and Bell is complex...They both bear immense responsibility (literally being heirs to their thrones), both have kingdoms of innocents to protect and crucial decisions to make that impact not only their lives but their kingdoms as well. On top of this also have to navigate their personal relationship amidst all these burdens.
One of the best parts of the book is the side characters and how you feel like you are one of their found family. They all have formed this close-knit group that is the epitome of what you hope for in your family or group of friends. Support, love, care, affection and acceptance of who you are. Each of these side characters brings so much into the story, that you will cry your literal heart out when something happens to them. Trust me I know... I UGLY CRIED!!!!!!!! DAMMIT and I NEVER CRY WHEN READING
This book isn't just about the deep emotional stuff though. Brea has upped the ante and quite frankly the world-building in this sequel is nothing short of magnificent, introducing twists and turns that will keep you hooked and engaged. The reveals are precisely planned, but with them come new questions leaving you craving for more. I am so eager to see how these threads will intertwine in future books. There is also a big introduction of court dynamics that adds a layer of angst and intrinsic complexity to the story.
Overall I adore how Brea approached each aspect of this story with meticulous attention to detail, especially in the handling of difficult themes around trauma, recovery and emotional situations. It is just so many things! It's a stunning testament to how well a character-driven story can impact your life, heart and soul. It is a powerful message about breaking free of the shackles of your past and finding strength in your vulnerability. And it is a glimmer of hope, knowing what it truly means to form the bonds of a found family while coming to terms with the fact that you are no one's but your own.
If you have not done so already, pick up Of Night and Blood - and then read this! Because I promise this book will burrow itself into your heart and soul...like it did to me!
Trope Summary:
▶ Multi POV
▶ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
▶ Found Family
▶ Trauma Rep and Bonding
▶ Shadow Daddy
▶ Mental Health Rep
▶ Touch Her You Die
▶ Meddling gods
▶ The bestest grumpy
▶ Political Intrigue
Thank you Brea Lamb for my gifted ARC copy.
All thoughts and opinions are my own
March 28, 2024
This book was such a whirlwind! So many twists and turns and secrets revealed that had me on my toes! I can not wait for the next installment to continue Ash and Bellamy's journey. There were so many things and people that separate Ash and Bellamy, and Bellamy's strength sometimes pulls Ash along. I hope in the next book that Ash can start believing in herself and believing that she's deserving of love. I know what that feels like, but it's my personal belief that everyone is deserving of love. Including Ash!
If you love fae/demon/shifter stories, political intrigue, enemies-to-lovers, touch-her-and-you-die, or magic systems
Until the next installment, I will continue to recommend this series to any and all Plated Prisoner series fans, Throne of Glass fans, From Blood and Ash fans, and for anyone who struggles with their mental health or feels undeserving of love. You do deserve love! Life isn't always easy, but it will get better. You just have to keep trying!
If you love fae/demon/shifter stories, political intrigue, enemies-to-lovers, touch-her-and-you-die, or magic systems
Until the next installment, I will continue to recommend this series to any and all Plated Prisoner series fans, Throne of Glass fans, From Blood and Ash fans, and for anyone who struggles with their mental health or feels undeserving of love. You do deserve love! Life isn't always easy, but it will get better. You just have to keep trying!
February 28, 2024
—5 stars—
“Our story began with a gilded princess and a bloody prince, but it ends like this, Ash. A queen of stars and a king of night, joining to secure the future. We are the clasp that holds this tale together.”
————about the book————
Age: New Adult
Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy
Writing: 10/10
Quotes: 10/10
World building: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Romance: 10/10
My rating: 10/10
trigger warnings: Death, Grief, Suicide Attempt, Violence, Gore, Injury Detail, Gaslighting, Physical Abuse, Manipulation, Emotional Abuse, Suicidal Thoughts, Depression, etc.
———my thoughts———
This is one of the easiest five stars I have ever given, and I already know Of Realms And Chaos will be one of my favourite reads this year.
I loved the first book, Of Night And Blood, but this?
This was perfect.
Brea Lamb’s writing is stunning, her world is meticulously crafted, and her characters are beautifully human and flawed.
Everyone, but especially Bellamy and Asher have my entire heart.
I had already felt connected to Asher previously, but this was a whole other level. I have never met a character I found so easy to love before nor one I saw so much of myself in.
And Bellamy continues to be my new standard for men. Literally, THIS MALE IS PERFECT. Morally grey, slightly dangerous, and adores Ash with his whole heart? What more could I possibly need?
Their relationship is everything.
From the way they love each other to how they occasionally fight, every bit is well written, thought out and real.
The side characters (and especially the Trusted) are funny, brave, and maybe the best found family I’ve ever read.
But my favourite part of Brea Lamb’s writing will always be the mental health side.
How she portrays grief, depression and trauma is beautifully raw and real.
Mental health representation is still something we don’t have enough of in fantasy, but Brea does it perfectly.
The plot also got more complex, with more political aspects than the last book, new information about the world of The Coveted and even more foreshadowing.
I loved getting to link all the tiny hints and clues together throughout, and my favourite theories have changed so much from the last book!
The ending...I don’t think I’ll ever recover.
Even with the sprinkling of pain and death throughout ORAC, the final chapters had me sobbing and numb.
All I can do now is wait for book three, and reread as much as possible.
————quotes————
“You are too incredible to continue hiding. Your mind, your heart, your soul—they are rare and beautiful and worthy of being seen. Do not hide, Princess. Do not cower. Bless the world with yourself, and watch as we all fall to our knees before you,”
“Before you, I was drowning, slowly losing myself to the current. I was the daughter of a cold and unforgiving sea, more alone than I realized.”
“You say you would die for me. That is the easy part. I would kill for you. I would burn the world to dust for you. I would defy the gods for you. I would become the villain, gladly!“
“I see you, all of you, and I am not afraid. You are my magnificent storm of a creature, and no matter what, it has always been you.”
“Being autonomous does not require being alone, and accepting help does not equal weakness.”
“Sometimes saving the world requires the villain, not the hero. But being the villain does not mean you are evil, it just means someone else is telling the story.”
“I was music. I was sorrow. I was death. Perhaps I was vengeance, too.”
“After a lifetime of being hated for all the wrong reasons, it is good to know she is loved for the right ones.”
“Tragedy was a unique sort of lovely, like a dying flower or a shattered glass—broken things that held a foreboding intrigue. But the healing that comes from tragedy? That sort of magnificence could not be recreated or explained.”
“It is hard to explain what it feels like when someone who hurts you so badly shows you affection. It is like winning a race you were forced to run, the success of it euphoric in a way that blinds you with its brightness, preventing you from seeing the tragedy in your worn shoes and stuttering heart and teary eyes. I was desperate for their love, and even now I struggle to not hold that memory close to my heart.”
“I would gladly watch the world burn if it meant you were at my side while it did.”
“No, Strange One, you will not see the world end. You will see it remade,”
————songs————
Shelter -FINNEAS
Carry You -Ruelle
Up Down -Boy Epic
Don’t Let Me Go -RAIGN
Safe And Sound -Taylor Swift
Thanks for reading! ❤️
“Our story began with a gilded princess and a bloody prince, but it ends like this, Ash. A queen of stars and a king of night, joining to secure the future. We are the clasp that holds this tale together.”
————about the book————
Age: New Adult
Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy
Writing: 10/10
Quotes: 10/10
World building: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Romance: 10/10
My rating: 10/10
trigger warnings: Death, Grief, Suicide Attempt, Violence, Gore, Injury Detail, Gaslighting, Physical Abuse, Manipulation, Emotional Abuse, Suicidal Thoughts, Depression, etc.
———my thoughts———
This is one of the easiest five stars I have ever given, and I already know Of Realms And Chaos will be one of my favourite reads this year.
I loved the first book, Of Night And Blood, but this?
This was perfect.
Brea Lamb’s writing is stunning, her world is meticulously crafted, and her characters are beautifully human and flawed.
Everyone, but especially Bellamy and Asher have my entire heart.
I had already felt connected to Asher previously, but this was a whole other level. I have never met a character I found so easy to love before nor one I saw so much of myself in.
And Bellamy continues to be my new standard for men. Literally, THIS MALE IS PERFECT. Morally grey, slightly dangerous, and adores Ash with his whole heart? What more could I possibly need?
Their relationship is everything.
From the way they love each other to how they occasionally fight, every bit is well written, thought out and real.
The side characters (and especially the Trusted) are funny, brave, and maybe the best found family I’ve ever read.
But my favourite part of Brea Lamb’s writing will always be the mental health side.
How she portrays grief, depression and trauma is beautifully raw and real.
Mental health representation is still something we don’t have enough of in fantasy, but Brea does it perfectly.
The plot also got more complex, with more political aspects than the last book, new information about the world of The Coveted and even more foreshadowing.
I loved getting to link all the tiny hints and clues together throughout, and my favourite theories have changed so much from the last book!
The ending...I don’t think I’ll ever recover.
Even with the sprinkling of pain and death throughout ORAC, the final chapters had me sobbing and numb.
All I can do now is wait for book three, and reread as much as possible.
————quotes————
“You are too incredible to continue hiding. Your mind, your heart, your soul—they are rare and beautiful and worthy of being seen. Do not hide, Princess. Do not cower. Bless the world with yourself, and watch as we all fall to our knees before you,”
“Before you, I was drowning, slowly losing myself to the current. I was the daughter of a cold and unforgiving sea, more alone than I realized.”
“You say you would die for me. That is the easy part. I would kill for you. I would burn the world to dust for you. I would defy the gods for you. I would become the villain, gladly!“
“I see you, all of you, and I am not afraid. You are my magnificent storm of a creature, and no matter what, it has always been you.”
“Being autonomous does not require being alone, and accepting help does not equal weakness.”
“Sometimes saving the world requires the villain, not the hero. But being the villain does not mean you are evil, it just means someone else is telling the story.”
“I was music. I was sorrow. I was death. Perhaps I was vengeance, too.”
“After a lifetime of being hated for all the wrong reasons, it is good to know she is loved for the right ones.”
“Tragedy was a unique sort of lovely, like a dying flower or a shattered glass—broken things that held a foreboding intrigue. But the healing that comes from tragedy? That sort of magnificence could not be recreated or explained.”
“It is hard to explain what it feels like when someone who hurts you so badly shows you affection. It is like winning a race you were forced to run, the success of it euphoric in a way that blinds you with its brightness, preventing you from seeing the tragedy in your worn shoes and stuttering heart and teary eyes. I was desperate for their love, and even now I struggle to not hold that memory close to my heart.”
“I would gladly watch the world burn if it meant you were at my side while it did.”
“No, Strange One, you will not see the world end. You will see it remade,”
————songs————
Shelter -FINNEAS
Carry You -Ruelle
Up Down -Boy Epic
Don’t Let Me Go -RAIGN
Safe And Sound -Taylor Swift
Thanks for reading! ❤️
February 2, 2025
4/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
I am loving this series. There are so many twists and turns and secrets being unraveled. This book definitely kept my attention and had me so intrigued by what was to come.
I did feel like it took a little long to get to the revelations so for that reason I'm not giving it a perfect score, but I did still love this book.
I think this series should get so much more hype. It's so unique and intricate and the characters and the world building will make you fall in love!
I can't wait to see what happens in book 3.
2.5/5 🌶️
I am loving this series. There are so many twists and turns and secrets being unraveled. This book definitely kept my attention and had me so intrigued by what was to come.
I did feel like it took a little long to get to the revelations so for that reason I'm not giving it a perfect score, but I did still love this book.
I think this series should get so much more hype. It's so unique and intricate and the characters and the world building will make you fall in love!
I can't wait to see what happens in book 3.
November 16, 2024
I need to start by saying this is the best book I have ever read. I was given the opportunity to read an ARC copy of ORAC. Let me tell you why this is the best book I have ever read. Lamb’s writing is the incredibly immersive & vivid. I could literally see every scene unravel. She does a fantastic job at including vivid details without making the writing overly wordy. The characters also have depth which allows you to grow more connected to each character throughout the whole series. Lamb does NOT hold back. I was crying well before the 100 page mark, and definitely a few times after that. There are also incredible plot twists I never saw coming that continue to give the plot more depth and leaves me with so many questions. This book has everything I need. Unique fantasy, continuous (but not confusing) world building, deep connection to the characters, romance (including spice), & unpredictable story. Asher inspires me to stand up for myself and this book has influenced me to my core. You will not regret reading it!
I wish I could convince everyone to read this series! Can’t wait for the third book!
I wish I could convince everyone to read this series! Can’t wait for the third book!
September 6, 2024
Ugh. I DNFd this at 50%. The reveal of secrets is just taking way too LONG. I understood it in the first book and liked that feeling of angst. However in this book, it just felt like it was being dragged along and it wasn’t making sense why. Whenever the truth does get revealed, it’ll feel anticlimactic.
March 4, 2024
In the end, this story wasn't it for me, and I never really got into it.
Overall, it was okay, but I didn't feel connected to the characters, and I found myself skimming through the book.
•••
I received an ARC. My opinions are my own.
Overall, it was okay, but I didn't feel connected to the characters, and I found myself skimming through the book.
•••
I received an ARC. My opinions are my own.
December 1, 2024
This book started to strong. And then we had to build an army and wrestle with heavy emotions. I am a huge advocate for real depictions of mental health struggles… BUT. I felt like ALL that was happening with this book was Asher’s struggle and building an army. The book because very put-down-able because of it.
The final battle scene though? Wow. Wowowowowowow. Poor Bellamy, Asher did him dirty (despite understanding why she did it).
The final battle scene though? Wow. Wowowowowowow. Poor Bellamy, Asher did him dirty (despite understanding why she did it).
March 27, 2024
I could wax poetically about this book and so I shall.
Asher is my sweet baby angel who is more like a morally grey rage monster that can tear into your mind and destroy you with a thought. Thus, she is perfect.
We follow Asher and Bellamy as they prepare for war against the fae kingdom where she grew up. They try to rally troops to their side without tearing into their minds and forcing them to comply, which is harder than it seems. We meet some great new characters, including the cuddly murder kitten Wrath, a dragon and Padon.
In all realness I love the importance of the healing Asher does from dealing with the emotional and physical abuse under the hands of her adoptive parents. I love her learning that she is worthy of love. This series is so special to me and as in usual Brea fashion the end has me SHOOK.
If you’re looking for your next favorite series, its this one right here.
Asher is my sweet baby angel who is more like a morally grey rage monster that can tear into your mind and destroy you with a thought. Thus, she is perfect.
We follow Asher and Bellamy as they prepare for war against the fae kingdom where she grew up. They try to rally troops to their side without tearing into their minds and forcing them to comply, which is harder than it seems. We meet some great new characters, including the cuddly murder kitten Wrath, a dragon and Padon.
In all realness I love the importance of the healing Asher does from dealing with the emotional and physical abuse under the hands of her adoptive parents. I love her learning that she is worthy of love. This series is so special to me and as in usual Brea fashion the end has me SHOOK.
If you’re looking for your next favorite series, its this one right here.
September 4, 2024
”Our story began with a gilded princess and a bloody prince, but it ends like this, Ash. A queen of stars and a king of night, joining to secure the future. We are the clasp that holds this tale together."
There is only one way I could rate this book and that is ♾️stars. I don’t think I will be able to do this book enough justice with my words.
I loved the first book Of Night and Blood but this book it was perfection. Brea’s writing is so beautiful, her world building is immaculate and so meticulously crafted and her characters every SINGLE one is beautifully human and flawed. I loved Asher so much in book one and connected with her on such a level I haven’t felt in a long time, her journey is heartbreaking but in ORAC my love for her is so much more the way I feel every single bit of her pain of self loathing, of not being good enough, feeling like everything that is happening around her is because of her is just is written with so much feeling and care. Bellamy will always hold a piece of my heart, he suffers from his own trauma and pain yet his undying and unwavering love for Asher is so beautiful, he is morally grey, dangerous and probably a little unhinged but then they both are.
Their relationship is literally everything, from the way they love each other, to how they sometimes fight every moment between them is so well written and thought out and just so REAL for two people who are not only trying to deal with their own trauma but also being there for each other and trying to get them through the darkest moments they find themselves in.
I love Brea’s writing so much but one of my favourite parts is how she portrays mental health there isn’t enough of it in fantasy and she does it so exceptionally well. Grief, depression and trauma is written in such a beautifully raw and real way.
The development of the plot was complex and dealt with more on the political aspects but the twists and turns that Brea delivered I never saw coming, the foreshadowing and theories is just brilliant. The final chapters had me feeling numb and sobbing 😭 even though there had been pain throughout the book those last few chapters were so heartbreaking 😭💔I will never get over that ending and will now be patiently waiting for book three.
There is only one way I could rate this book and that is ♾️stars. I don’t think I will be able to do this book enough justice with my words.
I loved the first book Of Night and Blood but this book it was perfection. Brea’s writing is so beautiful, her world building is immaculate and so meticulously crafted and her characters every SINGLE one is beautifully human and flawed. I loved Asher so much in book one and connected with her on such a level I haven’t felt in a long time, her journey is heartbreaking but in ORAC my love for her is so much more the way I feel every single bit of her pain of self loathing, of not being good enough, feeling like everything that is happening around her is because of her is just is written with so much feeling and care. Bellamy will always hold a piece of my heart, he suffers from his own trauma and pain yet his undying and unwavering love for Asher is so beautiful, he is morally grey, dangerous and probably a little unhinged but then they both are.
Their relationship is literally everything, from the way they love each other, to how they sometimes fight every moment between them is so well written and thought out and just so REAL for two people who are not only trying to deal with their own trauma but also being there for each other and trying to get them through the darkest moments they find themselves in.
I love Brea’s writing so much but one of my favourite parts is how she portrays mental health there isn’t enough of it in fantasy and she does it so exceptionally well. Grief, depression and trauma is written in such a beautifully raw and real way.
The development of the plot was complex and dealt with more on the political aspects but the twists and turns that Brea delivered I never saw coming, the foreshadowing and theories is just brilliant. The final chapters had me feeling numb and sobbing 😭 even though there had been pain throughout the book those last few chapters were so heartbreaking 😭💔I will never get over that ending and will now be patiently waiting for book three.
Read
September 28, 2024Of Realms and Chaos is the second book in The Coveted series, an epic romantic fantasy about a fae princess with a dark power and her fight to save the world—even if that means becoming the villain to do so.
Book two shows Asher as a once reluctant hero turned fierce heroine. She now is determined to save the world and those she loves. But, just as she was once dutiful to a fault, the wayward princess begins to fall victim to the obsession of a martyr. She sinks slowly into a downward spiral that sees her risking everything for the chance to later save it all.
This book takes an even deeper dive into mental health and the repercussions of familial abuse. Asher is a complex character that is rarely perfect and always self-sacrificing to a fault. She is glaringly human and flawed to the point of wickedness. And, as she navigates a life of freedom, she quickly learns that she is still a slave to her own trauma. Our dark FMC is forced to acknowledge something so painful—so horrifying—that it just might devastate her: what if she’s the villain of her story?
If you like star-crossed lovers, political intrigue, morally grey leads, swoon worthy romance, multiple POVs, meddling gods, and mental health rep, then Of Realms and Chaos is your perfect next read!
Please take the time to read the trigger warnings. If you take away anything from my books, let it be that you are worthy beyond measure and no one’s but your own 🤍
Book two shows Asher as a once reluctant hero turned fierce heroine. She now is determined to save the world and those she loves. But, just as she was once dutiful to a fault, the wayward princess begins to fall victim to the obsession of a martyr. She sinks slowly into a downward spiral that sees her risking everything for the chance to later save it all.
This book takes an even deeper dive into mental health and the repercussions of familial abuse. Asher is a complex character that is rarely perfect and always self-sacrificing to a fault. She is glaringly human and flawed to the point of wickedness. And, as she navigates a life of freedom, she quickly learns that she is still a slave to her own trauma. Our dark FMC is forced to acknowledge something so painful—so horrifying—that it just might devastate her: what if she’s the villain of her story?
If you like star-crossed lovers, political intrigue, morally grey leads, swoon worthy romance, multiple POVs, meddling gods, and mental health rep, then Of Realms and Chaos is your perfect next read!
Please take the time to read the trigger warnings. If you take away anything from my books, let it be that you are worthy beyond measure and no one’s but your own 🤍
February 5, 2024
I had an amazing opportunity and honor to ARC read Of Realms and Chaos 🖤
Of Realms and Chaos is an astounding sequel to Of Night and Blood.
Picking back up where ONAB ended, Asher has come to terms and faced the realization that the Fae Queen and King are not who she believed them to be as well as her love for what was once her enemy.
Through being taken from her home and her own world expanding, Asher has found freedom and a family all in one and now has to do all that she can to try to end a war before it begins. She must seek out alliances and as she searches for allies, new enemies will arise. Asher fights to protect her family and battles herself on whether to finally choose herself for once or choose the rest of the world.
Heartbreak, death, and despair plague Asher, Bellamy, and the Trusted but as they work to end the cruelty of the Fae Kingdom they also experience moments of peace and happiness with one another.
ORAC was a truly well written piece and enjoyable read. With plot twists coming to alter the readers thought process, it leaves you wanting more. The character development soared in this book and it was amazing to see the growth between various characters especially Asher.
I also thoroughly enjoyed Brea's writing in this book. I absolutely loved ONAB but it has definitely gotten even better with ORAC. I loved the multiple POVs that she included and it answered questions that came up as the story went on. The story is very detailed as well and it helps to visualize better what is going on!! I absolutely loved all the details that's included to better understand the story and the world that it is set in.
ONAB walked so ORAC could run.
Of Realms and Chaos is an astounding sequel to Of Night and Blood.
Picking back up where ONAB ended, Asher has come to terms and faced the realization that the Fae Queen and King are not who she believed them to be as well as her love for what was once her enemy.
Through being taken from her home and her own world expanding, Asher has found freedom and a family all in one and now has to do all that she can to try to end a war before it begins. She must seek out alliances and as she searches for allies, new enemies will arise. Asher fights to protect her family and battles herself on whether to finally choose herself for once or choose the rest of the world.
Heartbreak, death, and despair plague Asher, Bellamy, and the Trusted but as they work to end the cruelty of the Fae Kingdom they also experience moments of peace and happiness with one another.
ORAC was a truly well written piece and enjoyable read. With plot twists coming to alter the readers thought process, it leaves you wanting more. The character development soared in this book and it was amazing to see the growth between various characters especially Asher.
I also thoroughly enjoyed Brea's writing in this book. I absolutely loved ONAB but it has definitely gotten even better with ORAC. I loved the multiple POVs that she included and it answered questions that came up as the story went on. The story is very detailed as well and it helps to visualize better what is going on!! I absolutely loved all the details that's included to better understand the story and the world that it is set in.
ONAB walked so ORAC could run.
February 17, 2024
4.5⭐️
Wow Brea! I am so lucky I got to receive and ARC for Of Realms and Chaos. I really loved book one. The FMC, Asher is so wholly relatable and rounded in the most heartbreaking way. It’s easy to fall in love with her. I really like the new characters (especially Stassi)
and think it was easy to start connecting to more of them! Brea’s writing continues to get better and better with every book she writes (I cannot believe this is only the second one?!) the twist in the last hundred or so pages of this book too really surprised me and have me so ready for book 3!! My only reason for not giving it a whole 5 is that the middle felt a bit oddly paced for me. I almost felt as if the book could have a hundred or so pages less and it would’ve been okay but it also depends on what you like as a reader! She def puts a LOT of detail into her writing. Honestly it was easy to forgive given that the overarching plot, amazing characters, and improvements I’ve seen in the writing from book one to two have been so incredible to see grow. Keep it up Brea!
Wow Brea! I am so lucky I got to receive and ARC for Of Realms and Chaos. I really loved book one. The FMC, Asher is so wholly relatable and rounded in the most heartbreaking way. It’s easy to fall in love with her. I really like the new characters (especially Stassi)
and think it was easy to start connecting to more of them! Brea’s writing continues to get better and better with every book she writes (I cannot believe this is only the second one?!) the twist in the last hundred or so pages of this book too really surprised me and have me so ready for book 3!! My only reason for not giving it a whole 5 is that the middle felt a bit oddly paced for me. I almost felt as if the book could have a hundred or so pages less and it would’ve been okay but it also depends on what you like as a reader! She def puts a LOT of detail into her writing. Honestly it was easy to forgive given that the overarching plot, amazing characters, and improvements I’ve seen in the writing from book one to two have been so incredible to see grow. Keep it up Brea!
November 1, 2024
Once again, I am shocked this book is so under the radar.
I was not ready for the multiple povs considering book one just had Ashers but wow, am I so glad it happened. I absolutely loved being in the head of each of the characters, including Stassi which was a curve ball I did not expect.
Very high fantasy, heavy mental health representation with extremely likable characters. Bellamy has so be one of my top 5 mmcs from all of the book I’ve read.
The found family is absolutely amazing and I hope we get to see more povs from Henry and co.
Filled with plot twists and still a lot of unanswered questions, i absolutely can nooooot wait for the next installment.
I was not ready for the multiple povs considering book one just had Ashers but wow, am I so glad it happened. I absolutely loved being in the head of each of the characters, including Stassi which was a curve ball I did not expect.
Very high fantasy, heavy mental health representation with extremely likable characters. Bellamy has so be one of my top 5 mmcs from all of the book I’ve read.
The found family is absolutely amazing and I hope we get to see more povs from Henry and co.
Filled with plot twists and still a lot of unanswered questions, i absolutely can nooooot wait for the next installment.
September 15, 2024
Full review to come. For now I’m going to go cry in a corner 🥲
July 9, 2025
This series is EVERYTHING & more🫠🩷😭
April 22, 2024
Fantasy at its best!
Oh, gods - the grip this book had on me! The writing is exquisite and the world created made so real. If you want a true hero's journey (or is it villain?) this is a must read. Cannot wait to continue this epic tale of found family, love, hate and all the gray in between.
Oh, gods - the grip this book had on me! The writing is exquisite and the world created made so real. If you want a true hero's journey (or is it villain?) this is a must read. Cannot wait to continue this epic tale of found family, love, hate and all the gray in between.
December 5, 2024
A fantastic continuation of the coveted series!!! FAE, Demons, gods, magic, love, secrets, betrayal, friendship, death, grief, strength, family, spice, savagery ....oh wait, and dragons!
And there's still so much more to come... so many more things that, as the reader, I am desperate to know.
Luckily for me, I have the ARC of book 3 - of vows and War - sitting in my inbox ready to explore!!
I can't wait!!
And there's still so much more to come... so many more things that, as the reader, I am desperate to know.
Luckily for me, I have the ARC of book 3 - of vows and War - sitting in my inbox ready to explore!!
I can't wait!!
March 14, 2024
So many amazing quotes…a beautiful mindset shift on being the villain. The spicy scenes were ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
Overall, life-changing! I can’t wait for book 3!
Overall, life-changing! I can’t wait for book 3!
March 30, 2024
2.5 rounded up. really, really struggled to read this. the first book i wish had been a little more fleshed out, and this one almost seemed too fleshed out? the introduction of a new POV/character (did i miss something about Stassi?!) with no explanation was confusing. who was Padon and what’s the connection? a lot of cliffhangers and plot holes. Bellamy is my boy though, and i do love him as a character. Asher i struggled with, and a lot of the internal dialogue. i still am enjoying the story, even though i’m hella confused about what’s happening.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
*sigh*
I'm disappointed. In this book, and in the rating I felt comfortable with.
I really liked book one. Four star read for me, solely due to the constant editing misses. The story was absolutely solid.
This book had more of the same editing issues. But it also went in a weird direction I was unpleasantly surprised by. The middle felt like a step back for Asher.
I do think I will continue with the series, but I also will not be holding onto a lot of hope.
I'm disappointed. In this book, and in the rating I felt comfortable with.
I really liked book one. Four star read for me, solely due to the constant editing misses. The story was absolutely solid.
This book had more of the same editing issues. But it also went in a weird direction I was unpleasantly surprised by. The middle felt like a step back for Asher.
I do think I will continue with the series, but I also will not be holding onto a lot of hope.
September 24, 2024
This book has some really awesome battle sequences sprinkled all over. There is some strong mental health rep, which Brea has handled with utmost care!
There are a ton of additions to the story, some of them are extremely memorable. Strong and unique characters and creatures has been a huge strength of this series!
There are a ton of additions to the story, some of them are extremely memorable. Strong and unique characters and creatures has been a huge strength of this series!
May 4, 2024
“You are too incredible to continue hiding. Your mind, your heart, your soul - they are rare and beautiful and worthy of being seen.”
This was a book I was so anxious to read after reading Of Night & Blood in the Summer of 2023 & I am happy that Of Realms & Chaos picked up right where it left off!
This book, like its predecessor, is full of so much emotion, trauma, & internal conflict specifically that of our FMC Asher. While we got a lot of character growth from her in ONAB, in this book she truly starts to break the chains of the trauma & conditioning she experienced for the majority of her life. Here we get her questioning her needs versus that of the world, & we see her choose love even briefly over her duty which is a major step for her as a victim of trauma & abuse.
Despite her growth, she takes many steps back at times & I found myself frustrated with her for the majority of the book. I didn’t find myself as frustrated with her in the first book so that added an element to this read that wasn’t there before. If it were for the Bellamy POV chapters I would likely have not connected with this book in the way I did. Bellamy makes up for Asher’s inability to feel & be herself tenfold because he feels at an intense level that makes my heart break for him. The sacrifices he’s made throughout his life that we’ve been told of so far makes my heart break for him. He has experienced so much trauma as well & we as readers have only barely been told about his which makes his story more tragic in my mind. The fact that he has such a beautiful ability to love Asher & his chosen family is a miracle & I want him to get the love that he gives so endlessly to them. A big part of my aggravation with Asher was on behalf of Bellamy because he deserves so much more from her than he gets, yet he never gives up on the possibility of a future with her. He is the true dreamer of this series & the world he wants to create, the love has to give, & the way he sees those around him is what true beauty is made of. Bellamy is the star of this world, & he deserves everything and more from it.
Throughout this book I found myself posing so many questions about details revealed & I wish we got a little more context about a couple of new ones we met. Some felt like they were randomly plopped into the story & I’m sure we’ll get the missing pieces of how they truly fit into the story in coming books, but I just wish we had one more piece in either this one or in Of Night & Blood that made their presence seem less random. With that being said, I am very intrigued by Stassi & her infatuation with a certain someone we learn the identity of at the very end of the book. I think there is way more there than meets the eye & with that I am intrigued!
Overall this is a very intense read full of a lot of internal turmoil, trauma processing, war, loss, sacrifice, love, & devotion. This is a story about knowing your worth, breaking the chains placed upon you by those who are meant to protect you, and choosing yourself in the face of a world who begs you to sacrifice yourself to save it. It is a beautifully tragic, hauntingly emotional addition to the growing series of The Coveted & I can’t recommend it enough!
“I thought of the world as a place too dark to hope for light, myself too wicked for dreaming, but maybe enough people with influence and control could make something better.”
This was a book I was so anxious to read after reading Of Night & Blood in the Summer of 2023 & I am happy that Of Realms & Chaos picked up right where it left off!
This book, like its predecessor, is full of so much emotion, trauma, & internal conflict specifically that of our FMC Asher. While we got a lot of character growth from her in ONAB, in this book she truly starts to break the chains of the trauma & conditioning she experienced for the majority of her life. Here we get her questioning her needs versus that of the world, & we see her choose love even briefly over her duty which is a major step for her as a victim of trauma & abuse.
Despite her growth, she takes many steps back at times & I found myself frustrated with her for the majority of the book. I didn’t find myself as frustrated with her in the first book so that added an element to this read that wasn’t there before. If it were for the Bellamy POV chapters I would likely have not connected with this book in the way I did. Bellamy makes up for Asher’s inability to feel & be herself tenfold because he feels at an intense level that makes my heart break for him. The sacrifices he’s made throughout his life that we’ve been told of so far makes my heart break for him. He has experienced so much trauma as well & we as readers have only barely been told about his which makes his story more tragic in my mind. The fact that he has such a beautiful ability to love Asher & his chosen family is a miracle & I want him to get the love that he gives so endlessly to them. A big part of my aggravation with Asher was on behalf of Bellamy because he deserves so much more from her than he gets, yet he never gives up on the possibility of a future with her. He is the true dreamer of this series & the world he wants to create, the love has to give, & the way he sees those around him is what true beauty is made of. Bellamy is the star of this world, & he deserves everything and more from it.
Throughout this book I found myself posing so many questions about details revealed & I wish we got a little more context about a couple of new ones we met. Some felt like they were randomly plopped into the story & I’m sure we’ll get the missing pieces of how they truly fit into the story in coming books, but I just wish we had one more piece in either this one or in Of Night & Blood that made their presence seem less random. With that being said, I am very intrigued by Stassi & her infatuation with a certain someone we learn the identity of at the very end of the book. I think there is way more there than meets the eye & with that I am intrigued!
Overall this is a very intense read full of a lot of internal turmoil, trauma processing, war, loss, sacrifice, love, & devotion. This is a story about knowing your worth, breaking the chains placed upon you by those who are meant to protect you, and choosing yourself in the face of a world who begs you to sacrifice yourself to save it. It is a beautifully tragic, hauntingly emotional addition to the growing series of The Coveted & I can’t recommend it enough!
“I thought of the world as a place too dark to hope for light, myself too wicked for dreaming, but maybe enough people with influence and control could make something better.”
February 8, 2024
After reading the first book, I thought there was no way the second could possibly get any better, but then it went and pulled an ACOMAF and blew it out of the water. I have no words; I am speechless.
I just lied. I have so many words to describe the masterpiece that is this book. SO. MANY.
This book is hauntingly beautiful and so perfectly written that it's crazy to believe this is only Brea's second book. Like how is she not a New York Times bestseller?! The emotions I felt reading her pages were full-spectrum, but always high-intensity. I felt the character's love. I felt the character's loss. I laughed with them, raged with them, broke into pieces with them, and healed with them, too. I saw pieces of myself in every character, big and small, and all of these things are tells of not only a wonderful story but an amazing writer.
I'm just gonna say it, Bellamy and Asher's love story was better than Rhys and Feyre's. I said what I said and I'm not taking it back. Also, terribly sorry if that was a spoiler for anyone reading ACOTAR but the world needed to hear it.
More side notes:
*The humor was so good in this book, I can't even.
*Asher is such a relatable character to anyone who doesn't understand their self worth but fakes it till they make it, yet is trying to learn to love themselves.
*Bellamy is the best MMC you'll find. His love for Ash is addictive and so powerful
*There's an animal sidekick that is so so good. Just *chefs kiss*, that really ties the whole book together.
Some quotes for you:
Who loathed me more than I did? Who had been more spiteful, more cruel to me than I had to myself?
Horrifying--that was what being loved was. Because I had neer amounted to what those around me thought I would. Every step along the way, I stumbled and fell, always clawing up a pedestal I would never reach the top of.
With startling force, I realize just how dangerous we were. Our love was made of both honey and venom, a sickly sweet poison that would us long before we were satiated.
Once, I was something to move and craft--a toy--but now, I was the enemy that needed to be silenced.
I was a compilation of faults held together by thin threats of morality.
A Part of me would always believe that life was about the adventure--about seeing extraordinary things and becoming extraordinary because of it.
If I could only bleed out every wicked piece of myself out, let it stain the water and leave me void of the evil I had been gifted like a prize. Perhaps then I would be a better ally to a peaceful kingdom. One worth risking so much for.
"You want me to beg?I will all damn day, Asher. Please let me fuck you. Let me worship the ground you walk on. Tell me I can have you, Princess. That is the way I want to be loved."
I just lied. I have so many words to describe the masterpiece that is this book. SO. MANY.
This book is hauntingly beautiful and so perfectly written that it's crazy to believe this is only Brea's second book. Like how is she not a New York Times bestseller?! The emotions I felt reading her pages were full-spectrum, but always high-intensity. I felt the character's love. I felt the character's loss. I laughed with them, raged with them, broke into pieces with them, and healed with them, too. I saw pieces of myself in every character, big and small, and all of these things are tells of not only a wonderful story but an amazing writer.
I'm just gonna say it, Bellamy and Asher's love story was better than Rhys and Feyre's. I said what I said and I'm not taking it back. Also, terribly sorry if that was a spoiler for anyone reading ACOTAR but the world needed to hear it.
More side notes:
*The humor was so good in this book, I can't even.
*Asher is such a relatable character to anyone who doesn't understand their self worth but fakes it till they make it, yet is trying to learn to love themselves.
*Bellamy is the best MMC you'll find. His love for Ash is addictive and so powerful
*There's an animal sidekick that is so so good. Just *chefs kiss*, that really ties the whole book together.
Some quotes for you:
Who loathed me more than I did? Who had been more spiteful, more cruel to me than I had to myself?
Horrifying--that was what being loved was. Because I had neer amounted to what those around me thought I would. Every step along the way, I stumbled and fell, always clawing up a pedestal I would never reach the top of.
With startling force, I realize just how dangerous we were. Our love was made of both honey and venom, a sickly sweet poison that would us long before we were satiated.
Once, I was something to move and craft--a toy--but now, I was the enemy that needed to be silenced.
I was a compilation of faults held together by thin threats of morality.
A Part of me would always believe that life was about the adventure--about seeing extraordinary things and becoming extraordinary because of it.
If I could only bleed out every wicked piece of myself out, let it stain the water and leave me void of the evil I had been gifted like a prize. Perhaps then I would be a better ally to a peaceful kingdom. One worth risking so much for.
"You want me to beg?I will all damn day, Asher. Please let me fuck you. Let me worship the ground you walk on. Tell me I can have you, Princess. That is the way I want to be loved."
March 6, 2024
This series is so close to my heart because of the realistic portrayal of mental illness and the non-linear path of healing from trauma. I am such an Asher girly and I relate to her in so many ways, because she is just trying her best. She is hoping to save everyone, even though she doesn't feel as though she deserves the term "savior". On top of being expected to save the masses, Asher is dealing with her own grief, healing, trauma, depression, and anxiety about fulfilling expectations. Her feelings are so exposed and raw and you feel them as though you are going through it with her. Everything is so vivid and it makes you truly feel connected to the characters
PSA: this series, and this book in particular, deal with some VERY sensitive issues, so please read through the trigger warnings before starting and protect your peace if they don't work for you.
Tropes:
- Simp MMC (Does anything for her)
- Touch her and be unalived
- Strong FMC
- Mental health struggles
- Political Intrigue (Court/Realm Politics)
- Enemy/Warring Kingdoms
Bellamy is *chefs kiss*. He is such a simp for his girl Asher and literally is such a golden retriever, but will kill anyone and give up everything for her - so maybe like morally grey golden retriever if thats possible.
I have to say what I like the most about Brea's writing is how *real* the conflict, healing journeys, and relationships are. I get immediately immersed because I can see where the characters are coming from when they act a certain way and its all very realistic to real-life. Everything is not smooth sailing for Asher and Bellamy (just like real relationships aren't perfect, theirs isn't either), and we see the very real issues they deal with and how they work through them together. We see more of the found family in this book and I love them so much. Asher's friendship with Henry is so cute and wholesome.
We lose some characters and gain some others, so it is quite the journey. We have Demons, Fae, Seers, Gods, mind powers, elemental powers and more, so there is definitely something for everyone.
I already need the next one immediately.
“You are too incredible to continue hiding. Your mind, your heart, your soul—they are rare and beautiful and worthy of being seen. Do not hide, Princess. Do not cower. Bless the world with yourself, and watch as we all fall to our knees before you.”
"Asher was my life. She was the gift given to an undeserving, wicked being. She was my Eternity."
"No part of you is less than perfect to me. No curve or freckle or tangle. There is nothing that you can show me that will leave me feeling anything less than obsessed with you."
“I would gladly watch the world burn if it meant you were at my side while it did."
PSA: this series, and this book in particular, deal with some VERY sensitive issues, so please read through the trigger warnings before starting and protect your peace if they don't work for you.
Tropes:
- Simp MMC (Does anything for her)
- Touch her and be unalived
- Strong FMC
- Mental health struggles
- Political Intrigue (Court/Realm Politics)
- Enemy/Warring Kingdoms
Bellamy is *chefs kiss*. He is such a simp for his girl Asher and literally is such a golden retriever, but will kill anyone and give up everything for her - so maybe like morally grey golden retriever if thats possible.
I have to say what I like the most about Brea's writing is how *real* the conflict, healing journeys, and relationships are. I get immediately immersed because I can see where the characters are coming from when they act a certain way and its all very realistic to real-life. Everything is not smooth sailing for Asher and Bellamy (just like real relationships aren't perfect, theirs isn't either), and we see the very real issues they deal with and how they work through them together. We see more of the found family in this book and I love them so much. Asher's friendship with Henry is so cute and wholesome.
We lose some characters and gain some others, so it is quite the journey. We have Demons, Fae, Seers, Gods, mind powers, elemental powers and more, so there is definitely something for everyone.
I already need the next one immediately.
“You are too incredible to continue hiding. Your mind, your heart, your soul—they are rare and beautiful and worthy of being seen. Do not hide, Princess. Do not cower. Bless the world with yourself, and watch as we all fall to our knees before you.”
"Asher was my life. She was the gift given to an undeserving, wicked being. She was my Eternity."
"No part of you is less than perfect to me. No curve or freckle or tangle. There is nothing that you can show me that will leave me feeling anything less than obsessed with you."
“I would gladly watch the world burn if it meant you were at my side while it did."
February 22, 2024
The first note I made while reading this?
"OKAY BREA."
After I finished, I stared at the wall for a solid five minutes, trying to process what I had read.
Of Realms and Chaos is the second book in The Coveted series by Brea Lamb, and it does not disappoint. Like, I need you to read this book.
11/5 stars
3/5 spicy peppers
Brea took the heartbreak and pain that Asher felt in ONAB (go read it) and somehow, wove even more magic into her story. If you think that Asher gets to take a breath in this second installment, I suggest you think again because this FMC goes through the wringer; she continues to be sacrificial to her own detriment while navigating how to do even the simplest of things on her own. The way Brea writes Ash, she is a love letter to all women and the embodiment of things we cannot say out loud; Ash allows us to experience feminine rage on page.
"with an unbearable amount of anger and self-loathing, I began smashing the pianoforte."
We get more Bellamy and he has turned the heat up in ORAC. He is fiercely protective of Ash and will forever have a soft spot in my heart; he is the epitome of morally grey without being an asshole to everyone you meet...you can be sweet and spicy at the same time. What I loved about Bellamy in this book is we get more of the inner dialogue from him. We see him truly accept Ash for who she is, flaws and faults included.
"Her grey eyes held the type of brokenness that rarely could be mended, the whimper that left her lips a weak version of the piercing cry I knew she wanted to emit."
"Tell me what you need to feel safe."
We also get significant side characters in Padon and Stassi. I didn't want to like Stassi at first but as I read, Brea broke me down and made me fall in love with her as a character. AND ADD IN AN ANIMAL COMPANION? Yes, ma'am. The lines that this character drops are worthy of standing on their own and hit me in places I'd long hidden.
I cried reading this book-like sobbing. For an author to make you feel seen not once, but twice? That is magic all of its own. ORAC broke me in the best way, built me up like nothing else, and made me remember my own strength.
Even the brave stumble, even the brave fail.
I cannot wait to see where this adventure takes us; I'll pack the snacks and Kleenex
"OKAY BREA."
After I finished, I stared at the wall for a solid five minutes, trying to process what I had read.
Of Realms and Chaos is the second book in The Coveted series by Brea Lamb, and it does not disappoint. Like, I need you to read this book.
11/5 stars
3/5 spicy peppers
Brea took the heartbreak and pain that Asher felt in ONAB (go read it) and somehow, wove even more magic into her story. If you think that Asher gets to take a breath in this second installment, I suggest you think again because this FMC goes through the wringer; she continues to be sacrificial to her own detriment while navigating how to do even the simplest of things on her own. The way Brea writes Ash, she is a love letter to all women and the embodiment of things we cannot say out loud; Ash allows us to experience feminine rage on page.
"with an unbearable amount of anger and self-loathing, I began smashing the pianoforte."
We get more Bellamy and he has turned the heat up in ORAC. He is fiercely protective of Ash and will forever have a soft spot in my heart; he is the epitome of morally grey without being an asshole to everyone you meet...you can be sweet and spicy at the same time. What I loved about Bellamy in this book is we get more of the inner dialogue from him. We see him truly accept Ash for who she is, flaws and faults included.
"Her grey eyes held the type of brokenness that rarely could be mended, the whimper that left her lips a weak version of the piercing cry I knew she wanted to emit."
"Tell me what you need to feel safe."
We also get significant side characters in Padon and Stassi. I didn't want to like Stassi at first but as I read, Brea broke me down and made me fall in love with her as a character. AND ADD IN AN ANIMAL COMPANION? Yes, ma'am. The lines that this character drops are worthy of standing on their own and hit me in places I'd long hidden.
I cried reading this book-like sobbing. For an author to make you feel seen not once, but twice? That is magic all of its own. ORAC broke me in the best way, built me up like nothing else, and made me remember my own strength.
Even the brave stumble, even the brave fail.
I cannot wait to see where this adventure takes us; I'll pack the snacks and Kleenex
April 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
What To Expect:
⟡ Character Growth
⟡ Multi - POV
⟡ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
⟡ Found Family
⟡ Trauma Rep
⟡ Mental Health Rep
⟡ Shadow Daddy
⟡ Touch her and die
⟡ Political strategies
SUMMARY
We get to really see Asher grow and learn more about herself. Stepping outside the shadow that her "parents" placed her in. She is learning to push her boundaries, and making new strong connections. She is learning just who she really is, and how magnificent she is. This sequel walks us through Asher's growth and as she is discovering who she is, and the power that she truly hold when she believes in herself. The sacrifices she is making to obtain her ultimate goal. Breaking free of your past and blossoming into something more powerful.
World Building:
This book is HEAVILY character focused, and learning about new characters and seeing new POV. This book did take me longer to get through because there was so much information to hold but I loved it. It really allowed you to dive more into everyone and learn. But while you have mostly character focused you are also seeing the world more and learning about it as she continues to travel looking for those to help her in bring the world back to being at peace.
Characters:
I absolutely adore the characters (minus you know). Asher holds a special place in my heart. I resinate with her so much and her past. Bell is hands down one of the best book boyfriends around. His name, his desire for Asher to be the best version of herself without holding her to expectations.
They both know they have faults, but continue to harness those faults and turn them into power.
I love the side characters just as much, they have such a word in the story. They remind me of my love for ACOTAR side characters. They love Ash and Bell, they want to see them grow and protect them. There is Love, Support, Care, Acceptance.
Romance:
Watching Ash and Bell continue to love one another despite the struggles they face, while also having to battle doing what they see is right for the future. You see their vulnerability with one another, while also understanding their traumas. They are not your average couple you read in books and that is why I love their dynamic.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
POSSIBLE SPOILERS
What To Expect:
⟡ Character Growth
⟡ Multi - POV
⟡ Morally Grey FMC and MMC
⟡ Found Family
⟡ Trauma Rep
⟡ Mental Health Rep
⟡ Shadow Daddy
⟡ Touch her and die
⟡ Political strategies
SUMMARY
We get to really see Asher grow and learn more about herself. Stepping outside the shadow that her "parents" placed her in. She is learning to push her boundaries, and making new strong connections. She is learning just who she really is, and how magnificent she is. This sequel walks us through Asher's growth and as she is discovering who she is, and the power that she truly hold when she believes in herself. The sacrifices she is making to obtain her ultimate goal. Breaking free of your past and blossoming into something more powerful.
World Building:
This book is HEAVILY character focused, and learning about new characters and seeing new POV. This book did take me longer to get through because there was so much information to hold but I loved it. It really allowed you to dive more into everyone and learn. But while you have mostly character focused you are also seeing the world more and learning about it as she continues to travel looking for those to help her in bring the world back to being at peace.
Characters:
I absolutely adore the characters (minus you know). Asher holds a special place in my heart. I resinate with her so much and her past. Bell is hands down one of the best book boyfriends around. His name, his desire for Asher to be the best version of herself without holding her to expectations.
They both know they have faults, but continue to harness those faults and turn them into power.
I love the side characters just as much, they have such a word in the story. They remind me of my love for ACOTAR side characters. They love Ash and Bell, they want to see them grow and protect them. There is Love, Support, Care, Acceptance.
Romance:
Watching Ash and Bell continue to love one another despite the struggles they face, while also having to battle doing what they see is right for the future. You see their vulnerability with one another, while also understanding their traumas. They are not your average couple you read in books and that is why I love their dynamic.
April 30, 2024
I THINK THIS HAS TO BE IN MY TOP BOOKS FOR 2024!!!
This was, to put it simply, an incredibly heartbreaking beautiful book. I loved every aspect of ORAC!
Let me tell you, GO READ THIS BOOK, I recommend it 100%. It's a rollercoaster of emotions and I think I could read it again and again and again and never get tired of it. It's the type of book that every time you pick up, you'll find another little bit that's special and calls to your heart.
All the characters continue to grow, and we see how the repercussions of the ending of book 1 and the beginning of book 2 affect them (intensely sobbing).
Ma'am, WHAT DO YOU PUT IN YOUR BOOKS THAT MAKES THEM SO ADDICTING?!?!?!? I'm in love with most of the characters (even characters I wouldn't think I'd love).
Bellamy Ayad is my man, is the being of MY LIFE! Every interaction with Asher, every thought that comes from what we learn at the end of ONAB, is beautiful and makes me want to cry :) Also, he's definitely in my top book boyfriends of all times.
Now Asher Daniox, my queen of queens, my idol! My soul hurts for her and for what was done to her. She is one of the strongest characters I've had the pleasure of reading. She is flawed and her pain is raw, but that rawness is what makes her real and special. Her character is complex and at the same time beautifully written.
Wrath, the little demon of my heart, I'll just say I. Love. Him. (Intense side eye to Brea).
Henry, MY CARROT TOP!! I also love this demon. Can I be his love interest? PLEASE!!!! Also, his interactions with Asher and Wrath were TOP TIER!
Ranbir, Winona, Lian and Noe will forever be at the top of my list of found family. I love their dynamic and how they are the family they choose for themselves.
Jasper, Farai and Nicola are amazing and I CAN'T WAIT FOR MORE OF THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congrats Brea, you did an amazing job with this book. Honestly, both books have a special spot in my heart. If you haven't read The coveted series, I POLITELY ask you to read them. That way you can go CRAZY AND FERAL OVER THEM!
Okay, love you all!! Bye 💋💋
This was, to put it simply, an incredibly heartbreaking beautiful book. I loved every aspect of ORAC!
Let me tell you, GO READ THIS BOOK, I recommend it 100%. It's a rollercoaster of emotions and I think I could read it again and again and again and never get tired of it. It's the type of book that every time you pick up, you'll find another little bit that's special and calls to your heart.
All the characters continue to grow, and we see how the repercussions of the ending of book 1 and the beginning of book 2 affect them (intensely sobbing).
Ma'am, WHAT DO YOU PUT IN YOUR BOOKS THAT MAKES THEM SO ADDICTING?!?!?!? I'm in love with most of the characters (even characters I wouldn't think I'd love).
Bellamy Ayad is my man, is the being of MY LIFE! Every interaction with Asher, every thought that comes from what we learn at the end of ONAB, is beautiful and makes me want to cry :) Also, he's definitely in my top book boyfriends of all times.
Now Asher Daniox, my queen of queens, my idol! My soul hurts for her and for what was done to her. She is one of the strongest characters I've had the pleasure of reading. She is flawed and her pain is raw, but that rawness is what makes her real and special. Her character is complex and at the same time beautifully written.
Wrath, the little demon of my heart, I'll just say I. Love. Him. (Intense side eye to Brea).
Henry, MY CARROT TOP!! I also love this demon. Can I be his love interest? PLEASE!!!! Also, his interactions with Asher and Wrath were TOP TIER!
Ranbir, Winona, Lian and Noe will forever be at the top of my list of found family. I love their dynamic and how they are the family they choose for themselves.
Jasper, Farai and Nicola are amazing and I CAN'T WAIT FOR MORE OF THEM!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Congrats Brea, you did an amazing job with this book. Honestly, both books have a special spot in my heart. If you haven't read The coveted series, I POLITELY ask you to read them. That way you can go CRAZY AND FERAL OVER THEM!
Okay, love you all!! Bye 💋💋
February 28, 2024
Of Realms and Chaos
Brea Lamb
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️♾️
🌶🌶
Releasing February 29th
I can say with 100% certainty that
Of Realms and Chaos and The Coveted series so far are hands down my favorite fantasy books I have read in a very long time. Brea Lamb has a phenomenal talent of writing beautifully heartbreaking stories and characters that you can't help but be completely invested in.I didn't want this book to end, I have become so attatched to these characters that when I got to the last page I was sad because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. This book will take you on an emotional journey, and it covers very tough topics, but it's those topics and the way Brea writes them that makes this book so special.
Asher is one of the strongest FMCs I have read. I love that she has grown so much from the first book and even though she trys to leave the morally gray acts to Bellamy ( and he does it so well 😈) she will do whatever it takes to keep him and the rest of her found family safe. I loved that she finally let herself be more vulnerable with Bellamy and let the love they have for each other flourish into such a strong bond/connection. The group surrounding her has grown in this book, and that is because Asher is a beacon pulling people together to all fight for a future that is hopfully brighter.
Bellamy is the ultimate shadow book boyfriend, and he is completely devoted to Asher. Bellamy protects her with everything he has. He lives to make sure she never forgets that she is loved and that she is
stronger than she thinks she is. He has never tried to change her, which is exactly the kind of support she needs in her life.
I loved this book so much, and I can't wait for the third one! If I could recommend one series to read this year, I would say it would be The Coveted Series! Brea Lamb has written a beautiful story that will have you feeling ever emotion.
Brea Lamb
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️♾️♾️
🌶🌶
Releasing February 29th
I can say with 100% certainty that
Of Realms and Chaos and The Coveted series so far are hands down my favorite fantasy books I have read in a very long time. Brea Lamb has a phenomenal talent of writing beautifully heartbreaking stories and characters that you can't help but be completely invested in.I didn't want this book to end, I have become so attatched to these characters that when I got to the last page I was sad because I wanted to know what was going to happen next. This book will take you on an emotional journey, and it covers very tough topics, but it's those topics and the way Brea writes them that makes this book so special.
Asher is one of the strongest FMCs I have read. I love that she has grown so much from the first book and even though she trys to leave the morally gray acts to Bellamy ( and he does it so well 😈) she will do whatever it takes to keep him and the rest of her found family safe. I loved that she finally let herself be more vulnerable with Bellamy and let the love they have for each other flourish into such a strong bond/connection. The group surrounding her has grown in this book, and that is because Asher is a beacon pulling people together to all fight for a future that is hopfully brighter.
Bellamy is the ultimate shadow book boyfriend, and he is completely devoted to Asher. Bellamy protects her with everything he has. He lives to make sure she never forgets that she is loved and that she is
stronger than she thinks she is. He has never tried to change her, which is exactly the kind of support she needs in her life.
I loved this book so much, and I can't wait for the third one! If I could recommend one series to read this year, I would say it would be The Coveted Series! Brea Lamb has written a beautiful story that will have you feeling ever emotion.
February 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Our story began with a gilded princess and a bloody prince, but it ends like this, Ash. A queen of stars and a king of night, joining to secure the future.”
“Cries of agony came and went - hello, goodbye; alive,dead; the beginning, the end.”
For the second time, Brea Lamb has ripped my heart apart, and stitched it back together - heightened my anxiety, and eased it - provided security, and crushed it - had me falling in love, and in utter hatred.
This book has such vast character growth amongst all our favorites, introduces new characters that are effortlessly lovable (and hateable, in some cases), and once again leaves readers in the trusted hands of ever growing and evolving Asher and Bellamy. I laughed with them, cried with them, was angry for them (and sometimes at them), and felt the spirit of their cause deep in my core.
Lamb, as an author, is prepared to let you feel pain, loss, and grief while reading this absolute treasure of a story - but she is also prepared to remind you that no pain is felt without purpose and progress. She is talented in her ability to remind readers of their true worth, through the writing of her main character, Asher. I felt my self-esteem, resolve, and trueness of spirit growing right alongside Asher’s - these books feel like a warm hug, from Brea, and Asher, and Bellamy. These characters live rent free in my head - and their words and strength encourage me day to day. I am utterly and hopelessly in love with them.
Please, do yourself the favor of living in this world for a little bit ❤️ I promise you won’t regret it.
🌶️🌶️🌶️
“Our story began with a gilded princess and a bloody prince, but it ends like this, Ash. A queen of stars and a king of night, joining to secure the future.”
“Cries of agony came and went - hello, goodbye; alive,dead; the beginning, the end.”
For the second time, Brea Lamb has ripped my heart apart, and stitched it back together - heightened my anxiety, and eased it - provided security, and crushed it - had me falling in love, and in utter hatred.
This book has such vast character growth amongst all our favorites, introduces new characters that are effortlessly lovable (and hateable, in some cases), and once again leaves readers in the trusted hands of ever growing and evolving Asher and Bellamy. I laughed with them, cried with them, was angry for them (and sometimes at them), and felt the spirit of their cause deep in my core.
Lamb, as an author, is prepared to let you feel pain, loss, and grief while reading this absolute treasure of a story - but she is also prepared to remind you that no pain is felt without purpose and progress. She is talented in her ability to remind readers of their true worth, through the writing of her main character, Asher. I felt my self-esteem, resolve, and trueness of spirit growing right alongside Asher’s - these books feel like a warm hug, from Brea, and Asher, and Bellamy. These characters live rent free in my head - and their words and strength encourage me day to day. I am utterly and hopelessly in love with them.
Please, do yourself the favor of living in this world for a little bit ❤️ I promise you won’t regret it.
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