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The Glass Wings #1
Glass Wings
The Glass Wings Series Book One
Pain erupted from Hadley’s shoulders, blood, deep and blue streaked down her back. A metal chain groaned around her ankle, the only sound besides her screams in the dark.
Eighteen and alone in California, Hadley sells the only thing she has left to make ends herself. When strange things start happening, Hadley has nowhere to turn. She will soon learn that there are worse things than humans watching her from the shadows.
Hadley’s existence is an anomaly. She has inherited an ancient feud between immortals both good and evil. With it, powers she can’t yet control. Her path extends back centuries, tying her to five winged immortals: a gentle soul burdened with destructive abilities, twins whose connection to the moon ties them to fate, a woman whose commands shape destinies, and a boy who wanders the realm of unconsciousness.
She will soon learn what they’ve all known for even divine beings aren’t immune to family drama. When the light and the dark prepare for war, only you can decide which side you fall on—and it might not be as clear as you think.
Pain erupted from Hadley’s shoulders, blood, deep and blue streaked down her back. A metal chain groaned around her ankle, the only sound besides her screams in the dark.
Eighteen and alone in California, Hadley sells the only thing she has left to make ends herself. When strange things start happening, Hadley has nowhere to turn. She will soon learn that there are worse things than humans watching her from the shadows.
Hadley’s existence is an anomaly. She has inherited an ancient feud between immortals both good and evil. With it, powers she can’t yet control. Her path extends back centuries, tying her to five winged immortals: a gentle soul burdened with destructive abilities, twins whose connection to the moon ties them to fate, a woman whose commands shape destinies, and a boy who wanders the realm of unconsciousness.
She will soon learn what they’ve all known for even divine beings aren’t immune to family drama. When the light and the dark prepare for war, only you can decide which side you fall on—and it might not be as clear as you think.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2024
125 people are currently reading
2764 people want to read
About the author
Elle Kaelee
4 books56 followersElle Kaelee is a first-generation American author and mother who lives in the Pacific Northwest. After graduating with her B.F.A in musical theater, she gets inspired by people, relationships, and unique settings. This gives her an excuse to travel frequently.
She also had raised an orange cat who yells like a seagull with her husband.
She also had raised an orange cat who yells like a seagull with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
July 22, 2025
4.5 🌟
"....The windowlight hit them at an angle and they shimmered. Streaks of color flooded the carpet underneath her.
In that instant, she was a rainbow, yet she had a shadow so alive, currently in hiding." (Ch 26)
Kinnari and Vrae, akin to angels and demons. Dark fantasy with a bit of horror.
""....I got eaten.”
“Eaten?” Djoser raised an eyebrow. “How did that feel?”
“Like taking a bubble bath,” Reign snapped, “except worse. What kind of question is that, you f♤ck¡ng idiot?”" (Ch 28)
This book flits between multiple 3rd person POVs over different timelines. It was both intriguing and confusing, but I felt compelled to keep reading to try to figure out what was going on. And half the time, I didn't know what was going on, lol, but it really was enthralling. I know, that doesn't make sense whatsoever, but that's how it went. It's a bit complex how the components and parts work in tandem within this story. It makes you really work to unravel the whens and hows and whys.
I thought Hadley was the main character before starting the book, but though she played an integral part, she was not always the main. There were several that could be considered a main, and each had their moments.
"I was deadly, pure darkness, as she was pure light.” (Ch 25)
However, when focus was on Hadley, there was so much heartbreaking pain there, so much she had to endure her entire life. And you really started to believe as she did when things got dismal. I was rooting for her, though, rallying in my head, "Stay strong, you can get through this, you can find a way. "....
The end had me reeling. Not the HEA of fairytales.
Downloaded book 2 on KU. Hopefully, I can squeeze in time to read it soon. Looks like book 3 will come out in September.
Backlist review. Ebook courtesy of Naught Nook PR
"....The windowlight hit them at an angle and they shimmered. Streaks of color flooded the carpet underneath her.
In that instant, she was a rainbow, yet she had a shadow so alive, currently in hiding." (Ch 26)
Kinnari and Vrae, akin to angels and demons. Dark fantasy with a bit of horror.
""....I got eaten.”
“Eaten?” Djoser raised an eyebrow. “How did that feel?”
“Like taking a bubble bath,” Reign snapped, “except worse. What kind of question is that, you f♤ck¡ng idiot?”" (Ch 28)
This book flits between multiple 3rd person POVs over different timelines. It was both intriguing and confusing, but I felt compelled to keep reading to try to figure out what was going on. And half the time, I didn't know what was going on, lol, but it really was enthralling. I know, that doesn't make sense whatsoever, but that's how it went. It's a bit complex how the components and parts work in tandem within this story. It makes you really work to unravel the whens and hows and whys.
I thought Hadley was the main character before starting the book, but though she played an integral part, she was not always the main. There were several that could be considered a main, and each had their moments.
"I was deadly, pure darkness, as she was pure light.” (Ch 25)
However, when focus was on Hadley, there was so much heartbreaking pain there, so much she had to endure her entire life. And you really started to believe as she did when things got dismal. I was rooting for her, though, rallying in my head, "Stay strong, you can get through this, you can find a way. "....
The end had me reeling. Not the HEA of fairytales.
Downloaded book 2 on KU. Hopefully, I can squeeze in time to read it soon. Looks like book 3 will come out in September.
Backlist review. Ebook courtesy of Naught Nook PR
July 17, 2024
Thank you BookSirens for the arc.
"It's time to toughen up, or this world is going to eat you alive."
The moment I read the blurb, I was so sure this might turn out to be soo good. And this did, I fell in love right away. There are multiple povs, past and future time travels, and characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. The details in her magic system cause an accidental ripple of world-ending events, this book is for you. The plot was very fast-paced and after each chapter, I was eager to read more to find out what happens. Also, it ends in a cliffhanger. Now have to wait for the sequel.
"His entire existence had been based on hating
himself, hating that he had the power to take away life, to disassemble
atoms. He had convinced himself that he was awful, and the
murders he committed at the command of the gods, the Life Gifter, laid
heavily on his conscience. He knew that the orders were given to
create a better world, to improve mankind, but he had never, never
killed a child, not directly. His bare hands had never stolen a last
breath in the same way, with skin-to-skin contact. It felt so personal."
My favorite character would be Djoser, I don't know but from the very first page, I knew he was my comfort guy in this series. The writing was spectacular for all the characters, but his one made me feel at home and just perfection. The main character was likable. I wanted to feel more of her emotional struggle a bit more. I enjoyed a good inner monologue - she was dealing with some deep and difficult things.
"He would fight until he was utterly broken since that’s all that he would
be without either one of them."
"It's time to toughen up, or this world is going to eat you alive."
The moment I read the blurb, I was so sure this might turn out to be soo good. And this did, I fell in love right away. There are multiple povs, past and future time travels, and characters that you can relate to and fall in love with. The details in her magic system cause an accidental ripple of world-ending events, this book is for you. The plot was very fast-paced and after each chapter, I was eager to read more to find out what happens. Also, it ends in a cliffhanger. Now have to wait for the sequel.
"His entire existence had been based on hating
himself, hating that he had the power to take away life, to disassemble
atoms. He had convinced himself that he was awful, and the
murders he committed at the command of the gods, the Life Gifter, laid
heavily on his conscience. He knew that the orders were given to
create a better world, to improve mankind, but he had never, never
killed a child, not directly. His bare hands had never stolen a last
breath in the same way, with skin-to-skin contact. It felt so personal."
My favorite character would be Djoser, I don't know but from the very first page, I knew he was my comfort guy in this series. The writing was spectacular for all the characters, but his one made me feel at home and just perfection. The main character was likable. I wanted to feel more of her emotional struggle a bit more. I enjoyed a good inner monologue - she was dealing with some deep and difficult things.
"He would fight until he was utterly broken since that’s all that he would
be without either one of them."
August 6, 2024
Don’t judge this book by its cover.
Title and Book Cover: 1 out of 5 ✨dazzle me’s. Underwhelming, especially considering the quality of work inside. The title is difficult to google. (Why so many things named “Glass Wings”: a video game, a manga, a rug company, a butterfly, hundreds of drawings/paintings/sculptures?...)
Regarding the cover art, where do I begin? The cliché fairy wings, distracting lacy keyhole, and unreadable fonts made me cringe. To boot, the book summary is convoluted as heck. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the blurb from the actual text, I would have given this book a hard pass. And that would have been sad.
Summary: Fantasy fiction. 2000 years ago, 7 ancient immortals plan a war with the Life Gifter (basically God) because he orders one of them killed for failing to keep her mouth shut about something she saw in the future. The immortals all have different supernatural powers and huge wings. Are you also thinking “Angels”!!! Kinda. No feathered wings and they are called “Kinnari”.
Meanwhile, in the more-or-less present day (in the book described with the very exact date of “Early 2000s”) a human 18 y.o. girl - Hadley is going through a difficult time after her mother died and she’s all alone in the world. She resorts to prostitution to pay her rent and meets an enigmatic billionaire, who is obsessed with her. However, Hadley is connected to the immortals and their war. In a way, she’s the very reason for it.
Writting and Ending: 29 chapters. Ends on a cliffhanger. Multiple POVs, written in 3rd person. The characters are well-developed. Not all of them are to my liking. I’m partial to Hadley and Hector; hated Alienna because she was an idiot; but I love the strong emotions each of them has made me feel. And I can probably write a 3-pager on the relationship between Arryn and Allienna. That’s some epic level of co-dependent and messed-up.
Hotness Rating: 2 out of 5 🌶 jalapeños. There are various sexual situations and love scenes, not long or graphic, but at least one was steamy. Trigger Warnings: near rape, dubious consent, mind control, blood drinking, gore.
Main Characters:
Hadley
Hector – Hadley’s best friend and roommate
Sheng – the enigmatic billionaire
Grant – Hadley’s pimp and protector
Arryn – If the Kinnari had a king, Arryn would be it; with the power to create anything from nothing, but to also feel constant pain if he’s not creating.
Allienna – consort to Arryn; with the power to take away emotions and pain, but only to take them into herself.
Djoser – described as Arryn’s equal; with the power to kill anyone/destroy anything, but he feels terrible guilt every time he uses his ability.
Reign – with the power to travel through time and when she commands something, you have no choice but to obey her. She is not allowed to discuss anything she sees in the future.
Amis – with the power to bring balance
Precession – with (basically) the power of gravity. The Earth turns because of her. Moon is tethered to her.
Roksana - twin to Precession; with the power to manipulate/amplify emotions; very protective of her twin sister.
Tristan – considered dead; with the power to exist/travel through dreams and deliver messages.
Conclusion: 5 out of 5 👼 angels recommend this book. Well written. Fast-paced. Enthralling world and characters.
Title and Book Cover: 1 out of 5 ✨dazzle me’s. Underwhelming, especially considering the quality of work inside. The title is difficult to google. (Why so many things named “Glass Wings”: a video game, a manga, a rug company, a butterfly, hundreds of drawings/paintings/sculptures?...)
Regarding the cover art, where do I begin? The cliché fairy wings, distracting lacy keyhole, and unreadable fonts made me cringe. To boot, the book summary is convoluted as heck. Honestly, if it wasn’t for the blurb from the actual text, I would have given this book a hard pass. And that would have been sad.
Summary: Fantasy fiction. 2000 years ago, 7 ancient immortals plan a war with the Life Gifter (basically God) because he orders one of them killed for failing to keep her mouth shut about something she saw in the future. The immortals all have different supernatural powers and huge wings. Are you also thinking “Angels”!!! Kinda. No feathered wings and they are called “Kinnari”.
Meanwhile, in the more-or-less present day (in the book described with the very exact date of “Early 2000s”) a human 18 y.o. girl - Hadley is going through a difficult time after her mother died and she’s all alone in the world. She resorts to prostitution to pay her rent and meets an enigmatic billionaire, who is obsessed with her. However, Hadley is connected to the immortals and their war. In a way, she’s the very reason for it.
Writting and Ending: 29 chapters. Ends on a cliffhanger. Multiple POVs, written in 3rd person. The characters are well-developed. Not all of them are to my liking. I’m partial to Hadley and Hector; hated Alienna because she was an idiot; but I love the strong emotions each of them has made me feel. And I can probably write a 3-pager on the relationship between Arryn and Allienna. That’s some epic level of co-dependent and messed-up.
Hotness Rating: 2 out of 5 🌶 jalapeños. There are various sexual situations and love scenes, not long or graphic, but at least one was steamy. Trigger Warnings: near rape, dubious consent, mind control, blood drinking, gore.
Main Characters:
Hadley
Hector – Hadley’s best friend and roommate
Sheng – the enigmatic billionaire
Grant – Hadley’s pimp and protector
Arryn – If the Kinnari had a king, Arryn would be it; with the power to create anything from nothing, but to also feel constant pain if he’s not creating.
Allienna – consort to Arryn; with the power to take away emotions and pain, but only to take them into herself.
Djoser – described as Arryn’s equal; with the power to kill anyone/destroy anything, but he feels terrible guilt every time he uses his ability.
Reign – with the power to travel through time and when she commands something, you have no choice but to obey her. She is not allowed to discuss anything she sees in the future.
Amis – with the power to bring balance
Precession – with (basically) the power of gravity. The Earth turns because of her. Moon is tethered to her.
Roksana - twin to Precession; with the power to manipulate/amplify emotions; very protective of her twin sister.
Tristan – considered dead; with the power to exist/travel through dreams and deliver messages.
Conclusion: 5 out of 5 👼 angels recommend this book. Well written. Fast-paced. Enthralling world and characters.
did-not-finish
April 29, 2025Idk the plot was good but I just can’t connect with the characters. DNF 33%
July 30, 2024
4.25
Elle Kaelee's Glass Wings is a breathtaking and electrifying tale that sweeps readers into a world of ancient feuds, supernatural powers, and heart-wrenching drama. From the very first page, the story plunges us into the life of Hadley, an eighteen-year-old girl who finds herself alone and struggling in California. As she navigates the hardships of her existence, strange and terrifying events begin to unfold, revealing a hidden world where immortals walk among us.
Kaelee masterfully crafts a narrative that is both intensely emotional and pulse-pounding. Hadley's journey from a desperate young woman to a powerful being caught in an ancient conflict is gripping and filled with raw, visceral moments. The pain and bloodshed that mark her transformation are vividly portrayed, making her plight deeply relatable and compelling.
The cast of winged immortals that Hadley is tied to adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the story. Each character is richly developed, with their own unique powers and burdens. The gentle soul with destructive abilities, the fated twins, the destiny-shaping woman, and the boy who roams the realm of unconsciousness all bring depth and richness to the narrative. Their interactions and the family drama that ensues are as captivating as they are poignant.
Kaelee's writing is both lyrical and powerful, immersing readers in a world where the lines between good and evil blur, and where every decision has far-reaching consequences. The impending war between light and dark forces Hadley—and readers—to question their own beliefs and allegiances, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read.
In Glass Wings, Elle Kaelee delivers a mesmerizing story that is impossible to put down. With its blend of fantasy, romance, and high-stakes drama, this book is a must-read for fans of supernatural fiction. Prepare to be swept away by Hadley's journey and the epic battle that awaits.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Elle Kaelee's Glass Wings is a breathtaking and electrifying tale that sweeps readers into a world of ancient feuds, supernatural powers, and heart-wrenching drama. From the very first page, the story plunges us into the life of Hadley, an eighteen-year-old girl who finds herself alone and struggling in California. As she navigates the hardships of her existence, strange and terrifying events begin to unfold, revealing a hidden world where immortals walk among us.
Kaelee masterfully crafts a narrative that is both intensely emotional and pulse-pounding. Hadley's journey from a desperate young woman to a powerful being caught in an ancient conflict is gripping and filled with raw, visceral moments. The pain and bloodshed that mark her transformation are vividly portrayed, making her plight deeply relatable and compelling.
The cast of winged immortals that Hadley is tied to adds layers of complexity and intrigue to the story. Each character is richly developed, with their own unique powers and burdens. The gentle soul with destructive abilities, the fated twins, the destiny-shaping woman, and the boy who roams the realm of unconsciousness all bring depth and richness to the narrative. Their interactions and the family drama that ensues are as captivating as they are poignant.
Kaelee's writing is both lyrical and powerful, immersing readers in a world where the lines between good and evil blur, and where every decision has far-reaching consequences. The impending war between light and dark forces Hadley—and readers—to question their own beliefs and allegiances, making for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged read.
In Glass Wings, Elle Kaelee delivers a mesmerizing story that is impossible to put down. With its blend of fantasy, romance, and high-stakes drama, this book is a must-read for fans of supernatural fiction. Prepare to be swept away by Hadley's journey and the epic battle that awaits.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 8, 2024
Glass Wings is an extraordinary story that captivated me from the first page, to the last. The story is beautifully crafted and Kaelee masterfully blends magic, transformation and emotional depth.
Along the way you are surprised with unexpected twists and turns, these kept me on the edge of me seat. There's a perfect balance of perfectly paces storytelling along side a rich narrative. The integration of magical elements into the storyline, create a world that is both enchanting and believable.
The FMCs journey of transformation is portrayed with such authenticity that I felt every single moment of her struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters are equally as well crafted each bringing their own unique perspectives and strengths to the story.
Kaelee's writing is absolutely breathtaking. Her descriptive prose brings the world of Glass Wings to life with such vivid descriptions and phenomenal narrative. The dialogue is sharp yet natural and reflects the essence of each character.
Glass Wings is an absolute must read and easily a 5 star book.
Along the way you are surprised with unexpected twists and turns, these kept me on the edge of me seat. There's a perfect balance of perfectly paces storytelling along side a rich narrative. The integration of magical elements into the storyline, create a world that is both enchanting and believable.
The FMCs journey of transformation is portrayed with such authenticity that I felt every single moment of her struggles and triumphs. The supporting characters are equally as well crafted each bringing their own unique perspectives and strengths to the story.
Kaelee's writing is absolutely breathtaking. Her descriptive prose brings the world of Glass Wings to life with such vivid descriptions and phenomenal narrative. The dialogue is sharp yet natural and reflects the essence of each character.
Glass Wings is an absolute must read and easily a 5 star book.
July 2, 2025
I didn't get past chapter 1 and will be a DNF for me.
I got this book as an arc, and I'm really struggling to connect. I always know within the first few pages of a book if it's good or not, and for me, this was not. Despite being given Ariennas age, i feel like she was being described as much, much younger, and it was annoying. This was very boring and didn't draw me in.
This one is definitely not good me.
I got this book as an arc, and I'm really struggling to connect. I always know within the first few pages of a book if it's good or not, and for me, this was not. Despite being given Ariennas age, i feel like she was being described as much, much younger, and it was annoying. This was very boring and didn't draw me in.
This one is definitely not good me.
Read
October 30, 2025One of the WORST books I’ve ever read in my life. This had the HORRIBLE plot, no character building which was fine because I hated the characters, really confusing timeline jumps, and literal SA normalized. Absolute trash 1 star is too many stars. How was this ever approved to be published????
0/5 stars
0/5 stars
July 26, 2025
“You did it, and you will own it. You will not cry.”
Hadley wakes to find herself transformed—with glass wings on her back and a deadly shadow willing to kill for her. Hunted by gods, demons, and the truth of her inhuman nature, she’s thrust into a realm where monsters hide behind human faces and blood seals every alliance. As ancient powers awaken within her, Hadley must choose between becoming a weapon for others or forging her own path—no matter the cost.
Don’t be fooled by the sweet and delicate cover; this is no fairytale but rather a dark epic fantasy. If you are looking for a lazy read, this is not it. If, however, you are looking to immerse yourself in a sweeping story that follows multiple POVs across centuries and worlds, this one is for you. Glass Wings is an interesting take on gods and demons and their interaction with humanity and the world we live in. The worldbuilding is complex, rich and layered. I enjoyed discovering the characters and what motivates their actions; Reign and Djoser were definitely my favourites. This book is haunting and I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
Please pay attention to the trigger warnings, and if you are affected by topics around infertility and pregnancy loss, this book might not be for you.
Thank you, Elle Kaelee and NetGalley, for the eArc of this book.
Hadley wakes to find herself transformed—with glass wings on her back and a deadly shadow willing to kill for her. Hunted by gods, demons, and the truth of her inhuman nature, she’s thrust into a realm where monsters hide behind human faces and blood seals every alliance. As ancient powers awaken within her, Hadley must choose between becoming a weapon for others or forging her own path—no matter the cost.
Don’t be fooled by the sweet and delicate cover; this is no fairytale but rather a dark epic fantasy. If you are looking for a lazy read, this is not it. If, however, you are looking to immerse yourself in a sweeping story that follows multiple POVs across centuries and worlds, this one is for you. Glass Wings is an interesting take on gods and demons and their interaction with humanity and the world we live in. The worldbuilding is complex, rich and layered. I enjoyed discovering the characters and what motivates their actions; Reign and Djoser were definitely my favourites. This book is haunting and I cannot wait to find out what happens next!
Please pay attention to the trigger warnings, and if you are affected by topics around infertility and pregnancy loss, this book might not be for you.
Thank you, Elle Kaelee and NetGalley, for the eArc of this book.
July 22, 2024
I am IN love with this book. I literally devoured it (in the time I had to read which has NOT been a lot lately). I am obsessed with these characters (idk who my favorite is but so far I think Djoser or Hadley). I love Reign with my whole being tho so she's potentially up there👀. But For real the story line is AMAZING, the plot is AMAZING, the characters are AMAZING and the author is SO SWEET! Soooo go check her out and maybe buy her book, you won't regret it😘 as always 5 stars (because I only read books I'm confident I'll love😉)
July 12, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Don’t you love when you read a book that takes a few chapters to get into it, but before you know it you’re completely hooked and can’t put it down? That’s how I felt while reading Glass Wings. This a debut novel for Elle, and she knocked it out of the park! The details in her magic system and the way she weaves the tale between past and present is really refreshing. Elle does a fantastic job at world building and bringing the past and present to life.
Picture a mixture of CW’s The Originals, Supernatural, and Eternals, then add in The Deuce and Pretty Woman and you get Glass Wings. It’s enticing, original, and I can’t wait for more! This isn’t a romance and reads as a dark fantasy, with a multitude of triggers. Make sure you check those warnings! If you love broody, self loathing, outrageous deities that cause an accidental ripple of world ending events, this book is for you. This book kept me on my toes, never knowing exactly who to vilify and the plot twists are cleverly written. What a ride!
✨Read If You Love:
Dark Urban Fantasy
Dark TWs
Hidden Identity
Multiple POV
Immortal Gods
Witty Banter
Plot Twists
Angels vs Demons Vibes
Past & Present Time Jumps
Pent Up Suspense
Plot Twists
Don’t you love when you read a book that takes a few chapters to get into it, but before you know it you’re completely hooked and can’t put it down? That’s how I felt while reading Glass Wings. This a debut novel for Elle, and she knocked it out of the park! The details in her magic system and the way she weaves the tale between past and present is really refreshing. Elle does a fantastic job at world building and bringing the past and present to life.
Picture a mixture of CW’s The Originals, Supernatural, and Eternals, then add in The Deuce and Pretty Woman and you get Glass Wings. It’s enticing, original, and I can’t wait for more! This isn’t a romance and reads as a dark fantasy, with a multitude of triggers. Make sure you check those warnings! If you love broody, self loathing, outrageous deities that cause an accidental ripple of world ending events, this book is for you. This book kept me on my toes, never knowing exactly who to vilify and the plot twists are cleverly written. What a ride!
✨Read If You Love:
Dark Urban Fantasy
Dark TWs
Hidden Identity
Multiple POV
Immortal Gods
Witty Banter
Plot Twists
Angels vs Demons Vibes
Past & Present Time Jumps
Pent Up Suspense
Plot Twists
July 1, 2024
I loved the fantasy horror elements to this book, it had a great overall feel to this story. The characters had that overall element that I enjoyed about the genre, I thought it worked well in the urban fantasy. I thought Hadley has a great feel as a main character and was a strong start to this series. It had a strong introduction to this world and glad I got to read this. I hope there is more from Glass Wings series and can't wait for more from Elle Kaelee.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 10, 2024
Absolutely breathtaking!
I LOVE LOVE LOVED THIS BOOK!! The back and forth in time surprised me at first and I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it… boy was I surprised. It was amazing. The story telling was incredible, I really felt involved in all of the characters lives.
From the very first chapter my jaw was on the floor and I couldn’t wait to read more. I hope everyone gives this book a chance, it was utterly amazing. Definitely top three reads for this year.
I LOVE LOVE LOVED THIS BOOK!! The back and forth in time surprised me at first and I wasn’t sure if I was going to like it… boy was I surprised. It was amazing. The story telling was incredible, I really felt involved in all of the characters lives.
From the very first chapter my jaw was on the floor and I couldn’t wait to read more. I hope everyone gives this book a chance, it was utterly amazing. Definitely top three reads for this year.
October 5, 2024
This was a pretty interesting read. I heard about it through Threads so I figured I would take a chance and see how it was.
Tropes:
- Dark urban fantasy
- Multiple POV
- Demons
- Real world
- Winged creatures
- Damsel in distress
I loved everything about this story, except the damn ending. I KNOW there's a book 2 coming but that ending was just a total WTF for me. I felt that the last few pages were rushed and it just seemed out of sorts.
Her characters, the Kinnari, loved everything about them; how each one is intertwined with humans and their fates. I myself am smitten w/Djoser who happens to wield Death. Reign is a bad-ass. The sisters we don't get too much about them so I'm hoping book 2 explores more of them.
As for the two main Kinnari, I'll leave them out so you have to go check it out for yourself.
Hailey is the FMC and she seems to be okay except she's only 18. Huge downfall for me personally, but it didn't take away from the story. It showcases her naivety and homie needs to learn to listen to her intuition. Which is what made it an interesting read. You're arguing with her one minute and empathizing the next.
I will definitely read the next book in the series because like I said, I didn't like that ending at all and I'm hoping that the 2nd book will give me answers.
Tropes:
- Dark urban fantasy
- Multiple POV
- Demons
- Real world
- Winged creatures
- Damsel in distress
I loved everything about this story, except the damn ending. I KNOW there's a book 2 coming but that ending was just a total WTF for me. I felt that the last few pages were rushed and it just seemed out of sorts.
Her characters, the Kinnari, loved everything about them; how each one is intertwined with humans and their fates. I myself am smitten w/Djoser who happens to wield Death. Reign is a bad-ass. The sisters we don't get too much about them so I'm hoping book 2 explores more of them.
As for the two main Kinnari, I'll leave them out so you have to go check it out for yourself.
Hailey is the FMC and she seems to be okay except she's only 18. Huge downfall for me personally, but it didn't take away from the story. It showcases her naivety and homie needs to learn to listen to her intuition. Which is what made it an interesting read. You're arguing with her one minute and empathizing the next.
I will definitely read the next book in the series because like I said, I didn't like that ending at all and I'm hoping that the 2nd book will give me answers.
October 3, 2024
OMG! Did not see that coming….
Follow Hadley as she struggles to manage life on her own after her mother’s passing, she’s behind on rent, needs a job, and is very desperate. She feels like the only option left is to use her body, where she will eventually meet Sheng. Hadley doesn’t know it but she isn’t human she is Kinnari and she has a special destiny.
The Kinnari are described as wing bearing, power wielding, god like entities. Of course they are the food source for the Vrae portrayed as vampiric and demon like. The thing about Kinnari is the females are infertile, so Hadley’s mother struck a deal and was changed enough to get pregnant in exchange for something…..
I was so invested in this book and literally could not bring myself to put it down. My favorite character is Djoser, he seems like a grumpy kind of guy but also gives me teddy bear vibes! Hector is a poor friend, all I will say there! Amis, that Kinnari deserves punched in the junk and then drawn and quartered, I absolutely hate his character! I absolutely loved the writing style and world building author Elle Kaylee gifted us mere mortals with. I am eagerly awaiting book 2 and will definitely be checking out other Elle Kaelee books!
Follow Hadley as she struggles to manage life on her own after her mother’s passing, she’s behind on rent, needs a job, and is very desperate. She feels like the only option left is to use her body, where she will eventually meet Sheng. Hadley doesn’t know it but she isn’t human she is Kinnari and she has a special destiny.
The Kinnari are described as wing bearing, power wielding, god like entities. Of course they are the food source for the Vrae portrayed as vampiric and demon like. The thing about Kinnari is the females are infertile, so Hadley’s mother struck a deal and was changed enough to get pregnant in exchange for something…..
I was so invested in this book and literally could not bring myself to put it down. My favorite character is Djoser, he seems like a grumpy kind of guy but also gives me teddy bear vibes! Hector is a poor friend, all I will say there! Amis, that Kinnari deserves punched in the junk and then drawn and quartered, I absolutely hate his character! I absolutely loved the writing style and world building author Elle Kaylee gifted us mere mortals with. I am eagerly awaiting book 2 and will definitely be checking out other Elle Kaelee books!
July 13, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
1/5🌶️
Rounded up. The premise of this book immediately drew me in. Fascinating creatures, an interesting magic system and time jumps which were SO far in the future and the fast I couldn’t help but think we were going to meet some interesting beings. As the puzzle pieces slowly clicked together I was consistently intrigued to learn more and definitely was reading for the vibes. I immediately was dying to learn more about Reign, and wanted to hear about her powers. I was also chomping at the bit to hear about what and who Hadley was, and how she got to her ‘current’ predicament. And that ending! Who would have thought we’d have a last act revenge team up!
All this being said, I was lost for a great majority of this book. I think it was way too long, with too much detail which didn’t serve for the final plot. There was a lot which was a bit too convenient and other things that were over explained, which took me out of the story. It was incredibly entertaining, however, which kept it from being rounded down to three stars in my eyes.
1/5🌶️
Rounded up. The premise of this book immediately drew me in. Fascinating creatures, an interesting magic system and time jumps which were SO far in the future and the fast I couldn’t help but think we were going to meet some interesting beings. As the puzzle pieces slowly clicked together I was consistently intrigued to learn more and definitely was reading for the vibes. I immediately was dying to learn more about Reign, and wanted to hear about her powers. I was also chomping at the bit to hear about what and who Hadley was, and how she got to her ‘current’ predicament. And that ending! Who would have thought we’d have a last act revenge team up!
All this being said, I was lost for a great majority of this book. I think it was way too long, with too much detail which didn’t serve for the final plot. There was a lot which was a bit too convenient and other things that were over explained, which took me out of the story. It was incredibly entertaining, however, which kept it from being rounded down to three stars in my eyes.
November 11, 2024
4.5 rounded up to 5.
My friends. This book is a wild ride. I love multiple POV books, I love world expanding inside our own world. I love deities being expanded and explored. And this book gave me all of it. I. Freaking. Love. It.
Now, there is a lot of timeline hopping in this book that may not be for everyone. If you like a linear timeline, then this book might be a tough one for you. But it all pays off in the end.
If you don't enjoy books that make you hate characters to the point of screaming at the book/kindle/universe over their complete and total poopness, then this book might be a tough one for you. I'M LOOKING AT YOU ARRYN.
Djoser is hands down my favorite character and I hope we get more of him in book two. Him and Grant and Hector.
My friends. This book is a wild ride. I love multiple POV books, I love world expanding inside our own world. I love deities being expanded and explored. And this book gave me all of it. I. Freaking. Love. It.
Now, there is a lot of timeline hopping in this book that may not be for everyone. If you like a linear timeline, then this book might be a tough one for you. But it all pays off in the end.
If you don't enjoy books that make you hate characters to the point of screaming at the book/kindle/universe over their complete and total poopness, then this book might be a tough one for you. I'M LOOKING AT YOU ARRYN.
Djoser is hands down my favorite character and I hope we get more of him in book two. Him and Grant and Hector.
November 12, 2024
This was truly a hidden gem! With exceptional world building, dark elements, intricate stories, and a riveting ending that will leave you gasping its a great high fantasy.
I loved the multiple pov and getting to know each persons story. Yall....Hadleys growth and transformation!!! The Kinnari winged people are my fav! There's also introduction of a new and unique creature called the vrae. Each person is fighting for something and theres always a surprise with every page turn.
I loved the multiple pov and getting to know each persons story. Yall....Hadleys growth and transformation!!! The Kinnari winged people are my fav! There's also introduction of a new and unique creature called the vrae. Each person is fighting for something and theres always a surprise with every page turn.
August 12, 2024
Actually rounded up to a 4.5/5 ⭐️
𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓭𝓲𝓭 𝓲𝓽, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓸𝔀𝓷 𝓲𝓽. 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓬𝓻𝔂.
I knew then this book was going to drag me through some stuff, but I had no clue what a ride it would be.
An incredible debut novel! While I am definitely a Romantasy girl, I find myself leaning more and more into these fantastic urban paranormal stories!
This book is definitely not for the faint of heart, with a storyline involving abuse, assault, trauma, and sex work. Every bit of it is written with realism, often leaving me with my pulse racing and my anxiety rising.
And that ending?!?! I need book 2 like yesterday!
𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓭𝓲𝓭 𝓲𝓽, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓸𝔀𝓷 𝓲𝓽. 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓬𝓻𝔂.
I knew then this book was going to drag me through some stuff, but I had no clue what a ride it would be.
An incredible debut novel! While I am definitely a Romantasy girl, I find myself leaning more and more into these fantastic urban paranormal stories!
This book is definitely not for the faint of heart, with a storyline involving abuse, assault, trauma, and sex work. Every bit of it is written with realism, often leaving me with my pulse racing and my anxiety rising.
And that ending?!?! I need book 2 like yesterday!
August 17, 2025
Good start to the series, with a well written storyline. It did take a couple of chapters to get into this story, but it was worth it.
Great cliffhanger ending, with potential world destruction to come, and to be honest, I can't blame Hadley as she wasn't dealt a great hand. I'm looking forward to where it will all lead.
Great cliffhanger ending, with potential world destruction to come, and to be honest, I can't blame Hadley as she wasn't dealt a great hand. I'm looking forward to where it will all lead.
November 29, 2024
I found the beginning of The Glass Wings Series: Book One a bit confusing, with so many characters and pieces of the story to keep track of. That said, the premise is intriguing, and I appreciated Hadley’s very human reactions to the strange, dangerous world she’s thrown into. She felt real—flawed, scared, and brave in her own way. While I’m still missing key details about the immortals and their ancient feud, I’m hopeful book two will fill in the gaps. If you like dark fantasy with raw, relatable characters, this book is worth a try.
August 6, 2024
Glad’s Wings” by Elle Kaelee is one of the worst books I have ever read. The frequent and unnecessary POV shifts were extremely frustrating and added nothing to the story. More than half of the book dragged on with hardly any significant events. The gods, instead of displaying the wisdom and maturity expected of their thousands of years, acted like immature children.
The premise had potential, but the execution was abysmal. The writing failed to bring the story to life, and there was absolutely no character development. The FMC was annoying and lacked depth entirely. All the characters lacked depth. The constant jumping around felt unnecessary and detracted from the plot. The abrupt ending felt disjointed from the rest of the story.
I forced myself to finish the book to clearly punish myself. Overall, this book was a major letdown.
The premise had potential, but the execution was abysmal. The writing failed to bring the story to life, and there was absolutely no character development. The FMC was annoying and lacked depth entirely. All the characters lacked depth. The constant jumping around felt unnecessary and detracted from the plot. The abrupt ending felt disjointed from the rest of the story.
I forced myself to finish the book to clearly punish myself. Overall, this book was a major letdown.
August 1, 2025
Glass Wings is a dark, compelling fantasy that delivers an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. Spanning 29 chapters and told through multiple third-person POVs, the story immerses readers in a world fraught with tension, moral ambiguity, and the looming threat of war between the forces of light and dark. Be warned: this is a story that doesn’t shy away from graphic and challenging content.
The characters are the heart of this novel—deeply flawed, vividly real, and absolutely unforgettable. Hadley and Hector stood out as my favorites, both layered and complex, navigating a world where trust is scarce and danger lurks at every turn. On the other hand, Alienna drove me absolutely nuts; her choices were frustrating and often baffling, but even that emotional response speaks to how well Kaelee crafted her. The relationship between Arryn and Alienna is a masterpiece of co-dependent, toxic dynamics—truly a messy, intense bond that feels both believable and tragic. It’s the kind of relationship that sparks a flood of feelings, from anger to pity, and stays with you long after the last page.
Kaelee’s prose is lyrical yet powerful, pulling readers deep into a world where right and wrong blur into shades of gray. The writing style is immersive, making every scene vivid and emotionally resonant. The battle between light and dark forces isn’t just external—it’s a psychological war, too, forcing Hadley and the readers alike to question loyalties, beliefs, and what it means to choose a side.
The book contains various sexual situations and love scenes, though these are generally brief rather than explicit, earning a solid 2 out of 5 🌶 jalapeños for hotness. There is at least one steamy scene that stands out, adding a layer of intimacy amidst the chaos.
Trigger Warnings: near rape, dubious consent, mind control, blood drinking, and gore. These elements contribute to the book’s dark atmosphere and intense emotional stakes. They are not glossed over but presented with rawness that some readers may find unsettling. If you’re sensitive to these topics, proceed with caution.
Glass Wings ends on a cliffhanger, which left me both desperate for the next installment and eager to see how the story unfolds. While not all characters won my favor, the emotional depth, the morally complex storytelling, and Kaelee’s evocative prose make this book a standout in the dark fantasy genre.
If you’re a fan of dark, emotionally intense fantasy with flawed characters, unpredictable twists, and a story that challenges your perceptions of good and evil, Glass Wings is definitely worth the read. Just be prepared for its graphic and sometimes uncomfortable themes—it’s not an easy ride, but it’s a powerful one.
The characters are the heart of this novel—deeply flawed, vividly real, and absolutely unforgettable. Hadley and Hector stood out as my favorites, both layered and complex, navigating a world where trust is scarce and danger lurks at every turn. On the other hand, Alienna drove me absolutely nuts; her choices were frustrating and often baffling, but even that emotional response speaks to how well Kaelee crafted her. The relationship between Arryn and Alienna is a masterpiece of co-dependent, toxic dynamics—truly a messy, intense bond that feels both believable and tragic. It’s the kind of relationship that sparks a flood of feelings, from anger to pity, and stays with you long after the last page.
Kaelee’s prose is lyrical yet powerful, pulling readers deep into a world where right and wrong blur into shades of gray. The writing style is immersive, making every scene vivid and emotionally resonant. The battle between light and dark forces isn’t just external—it’s a psychological war, too, forcing Hadley and the readers alike to question loyalties, beliefs, and what it means to choose a side.
The book contains various sexual situations and love scenes, though these are generally brief rather than explicit, earning a solid 2 out of 5 🌶 jalapeños for hotness. There is at least one steamy scene that stands out, adding a layer of intimacy amidst the chaos.
Trigger Warnings: near rape, dubious consent, mind control, blood drinking, and gore. These elements contribute to the book’s dark atmosphere and intense emotional stakes. They are not glossed over but presented with rawness that some readers may find unsettling. If you’re sensitive to these topics, proceed with caution.
Glass Wings ends on a cliffhanger, which left me both desperate for the next installment and eager to see how the story unfolds. While not all characters won my favor, the emotional depth, the morally complex storytelling, and Kaelee’s evocative prose make this book a standout in the dark fantasy genre.
If you’re a fan of dark, emotionally intense fantasy with flawed characters, unpredictable twists, and a story that challenges your perceptions of good and evil, Glass Wings is definitely worth the read. Just be prepared for its graphic and sometimes uncomfortable themes—it’s not an easy ride, but it’s a powerful one.
July 22, 2025
“Glass Wings” is not a book. It’s a plunge, headfirst, heart open, into a world where immortals bleed, fates tangle, and one girl’s scream into the void echoes louder than she ever expected.
Elle Kaelee doesn’t just write a story, she unleashes a storm. Hadley, barely eighteen and already hardened by loss, is dropped into California’s sun-bleached chaos with nothing but grit and ghosts for company. But loneliness doesn’t get to linger long. Strange shadows stalk her steps, winged beings haunt the corners of reality, and suddenly the world she thought she knew cracks wide open, revealing bloodlines soaked in war and ancient grudges that refuse to die.
And Hadley? She doesn't just survive it, she transforms. In pain. In power. In pages soaked with both metaphorical and literal blood.
Let’s talk Kinnari. These immortals are not your average paranormal archetypes. They are haunting, magnetic, and maddeningly mysterious. Some wield death with the gentleness of a lullaby. Some share souls. Others twist fate like it’s a game. You won’t forget them. I sure didn’t, Djoser owns every scene he steps into, and Reign? Reign is power in human form. There’s a whole tangle of backstory with the sisters and other key immortals, and I need more. Book two, don’t fail me.
Kaelee’s prose is lush but sharp, like silk hiding a blade. There’s beauty in every line, but also danger. The moral lines blur in the best ways, and you’ll find yourself questioning loyalties, yours and the characters'. It’s the kind of story that dares you to pick a side while knowing full well there may be no “right” one.
Now, about that ending... what the actual hell. Not a twist. Not a cliffhanger. A detonation. It felt too fast, too chaotic, like the final crescendo hit before the orchestra was ready. I'm praying Book Two slows that explosion into something that makes sense because I’m still mentally standing there, blinking in the smoke.
One personal gripe: Hadley’s age. Eighteen is young, especially for the kind of epic stakes she’s thrown into. Her inexperience shows, and at times, it's frustrating. But that’s part of what makes her real. You’ll want to shake her, sure, but you’ll also want to shield her. She’s raw. And she’s learning.
So, final word?
Read it.
Feel it.
Rage at it.
Fall for the Kinnari.
And brace yourself, for Kaelee’s world has claws, and it doesn’t let go easily.
Elle Kaelee doesn’t just write a story, she unleashes a storm. Hadley, barely eighteen and already hardened by loss, is dropped into California’s sun-bleached chaos with nothing but grit and ghosts for company. But loneliness doesn’t get to linger long. Strange shadows stalk her steps, winged beings haunt the corners of reality, and suddenly the world she thought she knew cracks wide open, revealing bloodlines soaked in war and ancient grudges that refuse to die.
And Hadley? She doesn't just survive it, she transforms. In pain. In power. In pages soaked with both metaphorical and literal blood.
Let’s talk Kinnari. These immortals are not your average paranormal archetypes. They are haunting, magnetic, and maddeningly mysterious. Some wield death with the gentleness of a lullaby. Some share souls. Others twist fate like it’s a game. You won’t forget them. I sure didn’t, Djoser owns every scene he steps into, and Reign? Reign is power in human form. There’s a whole tangle of backstory with the sisters and other key immortals, and I need more. Book two, don’t fail me.
Kaelee’s prose is lush but sharp, like silk hiding a blade. There’s beauty in every line, but also danger. The moral lines blur in the best ways, and you’ll find yourself questioning loyalties, yours and the characters'. It’s the kind of story that dares you to pick a side while knowing full well there may be no “right” one.
Now, about that ending... what the actual hell. Not a twist. Not a cliffhanger. A detonation. It felt too fast, too chaotic, like the final crescendo hit before the orchestra was ready. I'm praying Book Two slows that explosion into something that makes sense because I’m still mentally standing there, blinking in the smoke.
One personal gripe: Hadley’s age. Eighteen is young, especially for the kind of epic stakes she’s thrown into. Her inexperience shows, and at times, it's frustrating. But that’s part of what makes her real. You’ll want to shake her, sure, but you’ll also want to shield her. She’s raw. And she’s learning.
So, final word?
Read it.
Feel it.
Rage at it.
Fall for the Kinnari.
And brace yourself, for Kaelee’s world has claws, and it doesn’t let go easily.
July 24, 2024
"Then, she realized that she wasn't the victim. She was the victor who would rise from the ashes after dragon flame burned down everything. Her glass wings would scorch her path with the sun magnifying heat through them."
Foremost, when I signed up to be an ARC reader for this book, I didn't expect to be this book-hungover even after days of reading it. Glass Wings is an extremely unputdownable book! This is the debut novel of author @ellekaeleeauthor and just WOW. I finished this in less than a day and halfway through I was already CRAVING for book 2! Mind you, I don't usually wake up early, but I dreamt about reading this book so I was like "okay let's read it" at 6 in the morning, that's how good the book is!
Glass Wings is a story of an ancient feud dating back centuries between immortals of good and evil. The Kinnari, The Vrae, The Life Gifter and, the ancient gods. The story starts with Allienna, an immortal, and her desire for motherhood. Reign, her immortal best friend who went to the future and discovered that they were in danger. Arryn, Djoser, Amis, Precession and Roksana, immortals who would do their all to keep their family safe. And, Hadley, a mortal who would soon discover who she is in a world that she thought abandoned her. Also, mean ancient gods and witty sarcastic Kinnaris hehe. This book is an absolute rollercoaster and a blast to read.
The book has two realms— Earth realm and Myrilosis, time jumps and multiple POVs, modern world and ancient magic, history and mythology, it is a unique fantasy book with a solid world-building. The plot line was easy to follow— especially if you like reading multiple third person POV, the writing has a good flow, the plot twist just keeps on twisting until the very end, the spice was minimal it doesn't overpower the plot, there's enough horror cult thing going, the representation for sex workers was empowering and not disrespectful, and the ending will make you ask the author, "WHERE THE VRAE IS BOOK 2?!" Hehe. I swear this has the making of a big series!!
READ. THIS. BOOK!
Title: Glass Wings
Rating: ✩✩✩✩✩
Song for the book: Bad Blood - Bastille
Book tour: @plungeintobooktours
Release date: July 26
Foremost, when I signed up to be an ARC reader for this book, I didn't expect to be this book-hungover even after days of reading it. Glass Wings is an extremely unputdownable book! This is the debut novel of author @ellekaeleeauthor and just WOW. I finished this in less than a day and halfway through I was already CRAVING for book 2! Mind you, I don't usually wake up early, but I dreamt about reading this book so I was like "okay let's read it" at 6 in the morning, that's how good the book is!
Glass Wings is a story of an ancient feud dating back centuries between immortals of good and evil. The Kinnari, The Vrae, The Life Gifter and, the ancient gods. The story starts with Allienna, an immortal, and her desire for motherhood. Reign, her immortal best friend who went to the future and discovered that they were in danger. Arryn, Djoser, Amis, Precession and Roksana, immortals who would do their all to keep their family safe. And, Hadley, a mortal who would soon discover who she is in a world that she thought abandoned her. Also, mean ancient gods and witty sarcastic Kinnaris hehe. This book is an absolute rollercoaster and a blast to read.
The book has two realms— Earth realm and Myrilosis, time jumps and multiple POVs, modern world and ancient magic, history and mythology, it is a unique fantasy book with a solid world-building. The plot line was easy to follow— especially if you like reading multiple third person POV, the writing has a good flow, the plot twist just keeps on twisting until the very end, the spice was minimal it doesn't overpower the plot, there's enough horror cult thing going, the representation for sex workers was empowering and not disrespectful, and the ending will make you ask the author, "WHERE THE VRAE IS BOOK 2?!" Hehe. I swear this has the making of a big series!!
READ. THIS. BOOK!
Title: Glass Wings
Rating: ✩✩✩✩✩
Song for the book: Bad Blood - Bastille
Book tour: @plungeintobooktours
Release date: July 26
September 10, 2025
Borderline 2.5 but rounded up feel.
This is book with a strong idea at its core, but the execution left me disappointed. In fantasy, I look for a sense of direction an underlying purpose or objective that drives the story forward. Here, while I could follow what was happening, I couldn’t tell you why it was happening. The events often felt disconnected from any clear reasoning, which made the plot feel unfocused and difficult to invest in.
I usually enjoy multiple POVs and nonlinear storytelling that plays with time, even when it’s confusing at first. Done well, those techniques can add depth and complexity. But here, they didn’t enhance the story; instead, they made it harder to engage with the characters. Rather than adding layers of meaning, the shifts in perspective and time created distance, which only weakened the emotional connection.
Another frustration for me was the magic system, or, rather the lack of explanation around it. One of my biggest pet peeves is when a magical system isn’t developed enough in the first book. Maybe the author plans to explore it more in the sequels, but for me, the first book should at least establish the foundation. Without that clarity, the fantasy elements felt more like loose ideas than a coherent system, which made the worldbuilding less convincing.
The writing style also didn’t help. It felt inconsistent and often unengaging, which made immersion difficult. There were moments where I saw glimpses of something special a nice idea, an interesting piece of atmosphere but they weren’t enough to carry the story.
And then there’s the romance, or at least, what I think was supposed to be romance? I honestly couldn’t tell if it was meant to be romantic or ironic.
Overall, Glass Wings wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t a satisfying one either. The concept was promising, yet the lack of direction, the underdeveloped magic system, and uneven writing held it back. I finished it, but it left me more frustrated than fulfilled.
This is book with a strong idea at its core, but the execution left me disappointed. In fantasy, I look for a sense of direction an underlying purpose or objective that drives the story forward. Here, while I could follow what was happening, I couldn’t tell you why it was happening. The events often felt disconnected from any clear reasoning, which made the plot feel unfocused and difficult to invest in.
I usually enjoy multiple POVs and nonlinear storytelling that plays with time, even when it’s confusing at first. Done well, those techniques can add depth and complexity. But here, they didn’t enhance the story; instead, they made it harder to engage with the characters. Rather than adding layers of meaning, the shifts in perspective and time created distance, which only weakened the emotional connection.
Another frustration for me was the magic system, or, rather the lack of explanation around it. One of my biggest pet peeves is when a magical system isn’t developed enough in the first book. Maybe the author plans to explore it more in the sequels, but for me, the first book should at least establish the foundation. Without that clarity, the fantasy elements felt more like loose ideas than a coherent system, which made the worldbuilding less convincing.
The writing style also didn’t help. It felt inconsistent and often unengaging, which made immersion difficult. There were moments where I saw glimpses of something special a nice idea, an interesting piece of atmosphere but they weren’t enough to carry the story.
And then there’s the romance, or at least, what I think was supposed to be romance? I honestly couldn’t tell if it was meant to be romantic or ironic.
Overall, Glass Wings wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t a satisfying one either. The concept was promising, yet the lack of direction, the underdeveloped magic system, and uneven writing held it back. I finished it, but it left me more frustrated than fulfilled.
December 6, 2024
Wow, this was a RIDE from beginning to end.
This is Book One in an epic Contemporary Fantasy Horror Series, that I recommend you pick up.
Heads up: It's fast-paced and ends on a cliffhanger, so BUCKLE UP- and as always check the trigger warnings before diving in because there are heavy themes.
Almost immediately I was hooked, it was especially refreshing after reading so many magical fae court stories. This really stands out with its original species, modern-day magic, feminine rage, and a heavy dose of horror. and the settings? Phenomenal. This does not have a linear timeline, the time jumps are drastic and can be a bit confusing at first. So if you like a neat start to finish this might be a bit difficult in addition to the multiple POVs but it is so worth it. The jumps were unexpected, I mean, Sacramento in the 2000s wasn't the fantasy backdrop that I expected. It was well done.
The world-building in this book is wonderful. The expansion within what is already our world, the way deities are expanded on is both fascinating and thought-provoking. The characters to me felt like a good mix of relatable and chaotic. I am always here for the lovable, relatable characters but let's not forget something else that is important. Those absolute dumpster fires of being who are written so well you want to scream into the voids of the book verse. You know, those perfectly awful characters? Yeah, you'll find them here too and it's amazing in an infuriating way.
Overall, this was a fantastic read that I'd totally recommend adding to your list if you're into dark fantasy with some twists. Just go in knowing there is heaviness and intensity- prepare for one heck of a journey.
Thank you to Elle Kaelee and BookSirens for an ARC of this book- I'm leaving this review voluntarily and with my honest opinion!
This is Book One in an epic Contemporary Fantasy Horror Series, that I recommend you pick up.
Heads up: It's fast-paced and ends on a cliffhanger, so BUCKLE UP- and as always check the trigger warnings before diving in because there are heavy themes.
Almost immediately I was hooked, it was especially refreshing after reading so many magical fae court stories. This really stands out with its original species, modern-day magic, feminine rage, and a heavy dose of horror. and the settings? Phenomenal. This does not have a linear timeline, the time jumps are drastic and can be a bit confusing at first. So if you like a neat start to finish this might be a bit difficult in addition to the multiple POVs but it is so worth it. The jumps were unexpected, I mean, Sacramento in the 2000s wasn't the fantasy backdrop that I expected. It was well done.
The world-building in this book is wonderful. The expansion within what is already our world, the way deities are expanded on is both fascinating and thought-provoking. The characters to me felt like a good mix of relatable and chaotic. I am always here for the lovable, relatable characters but let's not forget something else that is important. Those absolute dumpster fires of being who are written so well you want to scream into the voids of the book verse. You know, those perfectly awful characters? Yeah, you'll find them here too and it's amazing in an infuriating way.
Overall, this was a fantastic read that I'd totally recommend adding to your list if you're into dark fantasy with some twists. Just go in knowing there is heaviness and intensity- prepare for one heck of a journey.
Thank you to Elle Kaelee and BookSirens for an ARC of this book- I'm leaving this review voluntarily and with my honest opinion!
July 13, 2025
✨Glass Wings✨ By: Ellie Kaelee
This is a ARC review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I want to start out by saying this review is written from my personal thoughts and that everyone has different interests when it comes to what they like to read. For me this book had a lot of potential. The story and concept was very unique however, I felt that it was a little slow for my personal liking. The characters were unique and if you like books that go back and forth in time for the POV then you would really like it! For me it made it a little messy and I would get a little lost with the characters and the agenda at hand in this book.
The characters were fun and the main FMC was easily likable and I felt that she was realistically written. Each character brings a different personality to the story and I feel anyone who reads the book will enjoy their character traits and stories.
The plot had a lot of potential but was lacking. I felt the whole first half of the book was dragging along with not much really happening. I also felt there were a lot of scenes that didn’t bring anything to the story.
I did not really like the switching back and forth of the time. And I like to feel that a book picks up within the first 20%. However if you don’t mind books that jump back and forth in time and you don’t mind a book starting slow then this book would be something you would like.
I do feel that this book is listed for the appropriate age range and that it gives spice without over doing it and it is appropriately placed.
It wasn’t for me but I can see others still really enjoying it and I definitely would still recommend trying it out. Not the best book I’ve read but I don’t regret reading it either. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes fantasy and time jumping as well as a hint of spice without it going into too much detail.
This is a ARC review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I want to start out by saying this review is written from my personal thoughts and that everyone has different interests when it comes to what they like to read. For me this book had a lot of potential. The story and concept was very unique however, I felt that it was a little slow for my personal liking. The characters were unique and if you like books that go back and forth in time for the POV then you would really like it! For me it made it a little messy and I would get a little lost with the characters and the agenda at hand in this book.
The characters were fun and the main FMC was easily likable and I felt that she was realistically written. Each character brings a different personality to the story and I feel anyone who reads the book will enjoy their character traits and stories.
The plot had a lot of potential but was lacking. I felt the whole first half of the book was dragging along with not much really happening. I also felt there were a lot of scenes that didn’t bring anything to the story.
I did not really like the switching back and forth of the time. And I like to feel that a book picks up within the first 20%. However if you don’t mind books that jump back and forth in time and you don’t mind a book starting slow then this book would be something you would like.
I do feel that this book is listed for the appropriate age range and that it gives spice without over doing it and it is appropriately placed.
It wasn’t for me but I can see others still really enjoying it and I definitely would still recommend trying it out. Not the best book I’ve read but I don’t regret reading it either. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes fantasy and time jumping as well as a hint of spice without it going into too much detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2024
The blurb for this is awful and if I’d read it before picking up this book I wouldn’t have even downloaded the book. At first I thought it was just the worst synopsis ever, I enjoyed the beginning and thought it was going to be a good read, turns out the blurb is just an accurate depiction of the last part of the book.
The first half was really interesting and decently written, with nice pacing and going back and forth over the story. Yet the second half feels very unfinished and rough, makes no sense and repeatedly stumbles over itself. I was enjoying reading but at that point it was like I’d picked up a completely different book that was impossible to read.
The plot becomes weird, characters inconsistent and dialogue stiff. I struggled to keep reading, the pov switches and story is all over the place. There were also spelling/grammar mistakes and it just felt messy and rushed. Very disappointing for how much I enjoyed the first half.
I picked this up with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised at the start to find it much more interesting than I’d thought. A nicely written original idea with characters I was invested in and an intriguing story. At this point the flits between povs over a past and present timeline worked well to portray the lore and background, and was a technique that kept my attention. I couldn’t predict much of what was unraveling and enjoyed trying to.
It could have done with a little more fluidity and better explanation, but the missing pieces did keep me turning to pages to try and work it all out.
An interesting mix of typical urban fantasy, Greek mythology/percy Jackson and nephilim kind of vibes, probably most similar to Fallen or Maximum ride.
Dark themes and check the triggers, but nothing too terrible (at least for me)
The first half was really interesting and decently written, with nice pacing and going back and forth over the story. Yet the second half feels very unfinished and rough, makes no sense and repeatedly stumbles over itself. I was enjoying reading but at that point it was like I’d picked up a completely different book that was impossible to read.
The plot becomes weird, characters inconsistent and dialogue stiff. I struggled to keep reading, the pov switches and story is all over the place. There were also spelling/grammar mistakes and it just felt messy and rushed. Very disappointing for how much I enjoyed the first half.
I picked this up with low expectations and was pleasantly surprised at the start to find it much more interesting than I’d thought. A nicely written original idea with characters I was invested in and an intriguing story. At this point the flits between povs over a past and present timeline worked well to portray the lore and background, and was a technique that kept my attention. I couldn’t predict much of what was unraveling and enjoyed trying to.
It could have done with a little more fluidity and better explanation, but the missing pieces did keep me turning to pages to try and work it all out.
An interesting mix of typical urban fantasy, Greek mythology/percy Jackson and nephilim kind of vibes, probably most similar to Fallen or Maximum ride.
Dark themes and check the triggers, but nothing too terrible (at least for me)
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