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Above the Ashen Clouds
Five years ago, the world changed. Cities were replaced with mystical forests, fields with devastating mountains, and deserts with marshlands–and all of them came with beings that used to live only in fantasy novels.
Cat, a political science PhD candidate who lives in Princeton, New Jersey, has been fascinated by the world’s newest inhabitants since the day they first appeared–strictly in an academic sense, of course. Not taken in by the reality TV shows, social media presences, or general cult obsession, she wants to learn everything about the new creatures. So when she attends a summit between the angels and humans as part of her studies and receives a surprise invitation from an angel to visit their nearby mountain, she accepts.
Zariel is an angel and an archivist, devoted to preserving the texts inside the mountain that serves as both a library and a prison. Like the rest of his kind, he’s convinced that their ancient library and its archaic magic has the answer to how to return home. But when he sees Cat at the first summit between angels and humans, he is shocked to discover that she is his mate, an unheard-of occurrence between an angel and something other. Unable to leave her behind, he manages to convince her to visit their home in the Ashen Mountain, to give him a chance to uncover this latest mystery. No matter how the other angels feel about it.
However, some of the angels have their own plans to return home, and they are not afraid to turn to chaotic blood magic. Cat and Zariel are quickly drawn into a conflict between these angels, their own desperate need to discover the truth about the worlds, and their unexpected bond. As their relationship grows, they will have to fight to stay together, even when others are literally trying to tear the world apart.
Cat, a political science PhD candidate who lives in Princeton, New Jersey, has been fascinated by the world’s newest inhabitants since the day they first appeared–strictly in an academic sense, of course. Not taken in by the reality TV shows, social media presences, or general cult obsession, she wants to learn everything about the new creatures. So when she attends a summit between the angels and humans as part of her studies and receives a surprise invitation from an angel to visit their nearby mountain, she accepts.
Zariel is an angel and an archivist, devoted to preserving the texts inside the mountain that serves as both a library and a prison. Like the rest of his kind, he’s convinced that their ancient library and its archaic magic has the answer to how to return home. But when he sees Cat at the first summit between angels and humans, he is shocked to discover that she is his mate, an unheard-of occurrence between an angel and something other. Unable to leave her behind, he manages to convince her to visit their home in the Ashen Mountain, to give him a chance to uncover this latest mystery. No matter how the other angels feel about it.
However, some of the angels have their own plans to return home, and they are not afraid to turn to chaotic blood magic. Cat and Zariel are quickly drawn into a conflict between these angels, their own desperate need to discover the truth about the worlds, and their unexpected bond. As their relationship grows, they will have to fight to stay together, even when others are literally trying to tear the world apart.
- GenresRomantasy
390 pages, Unknown Binding
First published February 20, 2025
1 person is currently reading
91 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
January 16, 2025
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Characters: Cat was a likable and relatable main character. She felt genuine and I enjoyed her discoveries along with her. Zariel was honestly one of those characters that just makes your heart pitter patter.
Plot: The thing I loved the most about this book was the plot and the way that the author balanced plot/romance. Truly it’s a pretty difficult thing to do but when done well? It’s this book. I also loved the tie-in to the first book in the series, Within the Darkening Woods.
Romance: Speaking of romance… while there is a fated mates situation, it didn’t feel “out of the blue” or “thrown in” for singularly plot development. And the spice? There’s some spice, but I’d rate it about a 3 chili pepper.
Characters: Cat was a likable and relatable main character. She felt genuine and I enjoyed her discoveries along with her. Zariel was honestly one of those characters that just makes your heart pitter patter.
Plot: The thing I loved the most about this book was the plot and the way that the author balanced plot/romance. Truly it’s a pretty difficult thing to do but when done well? It’s this book. I also loved the tie-in to the first book in the series, Within the Darkening Woods.
Romance: Speaking of romance… while there is a fated mates situation, it didn’t feel “out of the blue” or “thrown in” for singularly plot development. And the spice? There’s some spice, but I’d rate it about a 3 chili pepper.
February 17, 2025
This world that Scarlett D. Vine is creating is just getting me more and more hooked with each book!
What I liked about the book:
Wonderful Worldbuilding? ✅
As a reminder from book 1, Within the Darkening Woods, the world within this story is much like we know it today, with the only difference being it collided with another world and remade itself. Because of this collision, a lot of places and people were lost to a separate world unseen again, while lands and creatures from the other world were brought into this world.
The creatures brought to this world do not know and cannot decipher their original language, so any books on when this potentially happened in the past and how it was solved, are rendered completely useless as no one can read them…at least at first.
Zariel is essentially a super hot librarian/linguist who can translate works from many different languages…oh, and he’s one of the angels from the Ashen Mountains. The High Artist (kinda think of them as the guys in charge), have scheduled a summit with the humans (ie, they will finally come down off their mountain) to supply the curious humans with a little information on angels in exchange for more supplies. This is the first summit that has occurred and Zariel doesn’t want to go, but he does out of loyalty to the High Artist.
Zariel has never had a mate, nor has his life been an easy one being adjacent to the High Artist in a lot of ways but still undervalued and his family either gone or in prison. Of course, he has to be the one to stand out by finding his mate at the summit…enter Cat a university researcher looking to get her Doctorate who is studying everything and anything she can get her hands on about these angels…oh and she’s Zariel’s mate.
Never has an angel had a human mate before, but these two are willing to try it out and get to know each other, when Cat followed him to the mountain…”strictly for research” lol
Other than this, we get magic, cannibalistic sacrifices (both for good and bad), a history of the library and the prison, as well as a connection back to the Elves in the Darkening Woods.
The worldbuilding continued to be fantastic and I loved meeting another creature in this series. I also loved how the Elves and the Angels started working together and look like they (and probably others?) are going to solve this problem of the shifting worlds one book at a time. I hope we get several more books, especially since we’ll need at least a Spring and a Summer themed book to compete with the Autumnal Elves and the Winter Angels!
Smart and Resilient FMC? ✅
Cat is smart and resilient! She is a Poli-Sci researcher working towards her doctorate, of course she’s wicked smart! I loved how everything, at least at first, was in the name of research. Did she want to do something? Eh, maybe or maybe not, but if it was in the name of getting facts and learning, she was ON BOARD! I loved this character trait in her and that she was definitely nerdy compared to the first book heroine Amber who was more street smart.
ALSO! SHE saved HIM! I won't go into too much more, but SHE SAVED HIM!!! Always love that!
Stoic but Possessive MMC? ✅
Zariel was loyal and stoic as his job and the pursuit of knowledge were very important to him, but he was also incredibly possessive (in the best ways) when it came to Cat. He showed us that the quiet ones are usually…not to be underestimated (and yes, read that in every way you can haha).
I loved how much he protected and looked after Cat, but also did not keep anything from her that she needed to know. He valued her intellect and their whole relationship was based on them both loving to learn and have knowledge (*swoon!*).
Plus this man definitely had the MINE concept down and it was HAWT!
An Intriguing Fated Mates System? ✅
Something I found really unique and I loved was that angels did not have one fated mate. There were many they could become fated and attached to, it just depended on who they met first. Also, it was not an instalove situation. While the couple would know they are fated mates, that did not make them love each other, neither at first or in the long term. There were couples spoken about who were fated mates but couldn’t stand each other.
I actually really loved this because it put the overall fated mates bubble over everything, but it also made it so Cat and Zariel had to establish a real connection and get to know each other, other than just lust after each other. I thought this formula was perfect because we went in knowing we were going to get an HEA but we also got to see the incredible chemistry bloom and their love for each other develop over time. It was the best of both worlds.
Good Spicy Times? ✅
YES!!! There were quite a few detailed spicy times between these two. There were definitely more interactions than in book one and they were very well developed. I mean….they freaking first had sex while flying!!! How do I recover from that??? Glorious!
Gorgeous Cover? ✅
Like book 1, the cover screams fairy tales and sexiness, two of my favorite things!
Lovely Writing Style? ✅
I loved this writing style! While book 1 was full of downright beautiful, almost lyrical, writing, which I loved, this one had more of a conversational tone to it, which I also loved! Even when there was no dialogue, the writing flowed so well as though someone were telling me a story and it was perfect.
Quick Read? ✅
Bonus points for being a quick read that went by so fast because I could not put it down once I started!
Final Thoughts:
This whole series is shaping up to be fantastic. I seriously cannot wait to see what Scarlett blesses us with next.
If you like romantasy with some spice, don’t sleep on this one!
Thank you to Scarlett D. Vine for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.5 stars!
What I liked about the book:
Wonderful Worldbuilding? ✅
As a reminder from book 1, Within the Darkening Woods, the world within this story is much like we know it today, with the only difference being it collided with another world and remade itself. Because of this collision, a lot of places and people were lost to a separate world unseen again, while lands and creatures from the other world were brought into this world.
The creatures brought to this world do not know and cannot decipher their original language, so any books on when this potentially happened in the past and how it was solved, are rendered completely useless as no one can read them…at least at first.
Zariel is essentially a super hot librarian/linguist who can translate works from many different languages…oh, and he’s one of the angels from the Ashen Mountains. The High Artist (kinda think of them as the guys in charge), have scheduled a summit with the humans (ie, they will finally come down off their mountain) to supply the curious humans with a little information on angels in exchange for more supplies. This is the first summit that has occurred and Zariel doesn’t want to go, but he does out of loyalty to the High Artist.
Zariel has never had a mate, nor has his life been an easy one being adjacent to the High Artist in a lot of ways but still undervalued and his family either gone or in prison. Of course, he has to be the one to stand out by finding his mate at the summit…enter Cat a university researcher looking to get her Doctorate who is studying everything and anything she can get her hands on about these angels…oh and she’s Zariel’s mate.
Never has an angel had a human mate before, but these two are willing to try it out and get to know each other, when Cat followed him to the mountain…”strictly for research” lol
Other than this, we get magic, cannibalistic sacrifices (both for good and bad), a history of the library and the prison, as well as a connection back to the Elves in the Darkening Woods.
The worldbuilding continued to be fantastic and I loved meeting another creature in this series. I also loved how the Elves and the Angels started working together and look like they (and probably others?) are going to solve this problem of the shifting worlds one book at a time. I hope we get several more books, especially since we’ll need at least a Spring and a Summer themed book to compete with the Autumnal Elves and the Winter Angels!
Smart and Resilient FMC? ✅
Cat is smart and resilient! She is a Poli-Sci researcher working towards her doctorate, of course she’s wicked smart! I loved how everything, at least at first, was in the name of research. Did she want to do something? Eh, maybe or maybe not, but if it was in the name of getting facts and learning, she was ON BOARD! I loved this character trait in her and that she was definitely nerdy compared to the first book heroine Amber who was more street smart.
ALSO! SHE saved HIM! I won't go into too much more, but SHE SAVED HIM!!! Always love that!
Stoic but Possessive MMC? ✅
Zariel was loyal and stoic as his job and the pursuit of knowledge were very important to him, but he was also incredibly possessive (in the best ways) when it came to Cat. He showed us that the quiet ones are usually…not to be underestimated (and yes, read that in every way you can haha).
I loved how much he protected and looked after Cat, but also did not keep anything from her that she needed to know. He valued her intellect and their whole relationship was based on them both loving to learn and have knowledge (*swoon!*).
Plus this man definitely had the MINE concept down and it was HAWT!
An Intriguing Fated Mates System? ✅
Something I found really unique and I loved was that angels did not have one fated mate. There were many they could become fated and attached to, it just depended on who they met first. Also, it was not an instalove situation. While the couple would know they are fated mates, that did not make them love each other, neither at first or in the long term. There were couples spoken about who were fated mates but couldn’t stand each other.
I actually really loved this because it put the overall fated mates bubble over everything, but it also made it so Cat and Zariel had to establish a real connection and get to know each other, other than just lust after each other. I thought this formula was perfect because we went in knowing we were going to get an HEA but we also got to see the incredible chemistry bloom and their love for each other develop over time. It was the best of both worlds.
Good Spicy Times? ✅
YES!!! There were quite a few detailed spicy times between these two. There were definitely more interactions than in book one and they were very well developed. I mean….they freaking first had sex while flying!!! How do I recover from that??? Glorious!
Gorgeous Cover? ✅
Like book 1, the cover screams fairy tales and sexiness, two of my favorite things!
Lovely Writing Style? ✅
I loved this writing style! While book 1 was full of downright beautiful, almost lyrical, writing, which I loved, this one had more of a conversational tone to it, which I also loved! Even when there was no dialogue, the writing flowed so well as though someone were telling me a story and it was perfect.
Quick Read? ✅
Bonus points for being a quick read that went by so fast because I could not put it down once I started!
Final Thoughts:
This whole series is shaping up to be fantastic. I seriously cannot wait to see what Scarlett blesses us with next.
If you like romantasy with some spice, don’t sleep on this one!
Thank you to Scarlett D. Vine for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
4.5 stars!
January 3, 2025
ARC reader here! 🥰📚
First off, I ARC read Within the Darkening Woods back in June of 2024 and LOVED IT! So when I saw that Scarlett was offering ARCs for the second book in the Twisted Worlds series, I JUMPED on the opportunity to read it!
Second off, SCARLETT D VINE knows how to write male main characters! First with Eldrin being so devoted to Amber in WTDW. Now with Zariel and Cat. 🫠🥰
I am giving this book a 5/5🌟 and a 3/5🔥
This story was the perfect mix of spice and plot!
*PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING THE BOOK ITSELF*
TW'S- Violence, gore, and harsh language, ritualistic human-esque sacrifice, potential cannibalism, consuming of various bodily fluids, explicit consensual sexual content.
"Don't worry--there's no accidental pregnancy in this book.
And if you're squeamish about feathers, you've been warned." - Scarlett D Vine.
Five years after the mortal world was changed by other realms merging with it, ultimately removing parts of the mortal world, Cat finds herself researching the military of the angels while working at the institute for the study of human-otherworld relations. (ISHOR) working on getting her doctorate.
With her knowledge in angels, whose Ashen Mountain landed not far from her university, she is invited to attend a summit meeting between the humans and angels to gain more information. That's when a certain angel catches her eye from across the room.
Zariel is an angel of lower ranking, though he has some pull as his father is important back home. But he lost some of that after his sister got locked up in the prison the Ashen Mountain is on top of. He is attending the summit meeting, but is quite bored until he notices a human hiding in a corner across the room.
Next thing Cat knows, this angel is in front of her, introducing himself and offering to take her to the Ashen Mountain, where no human has been before, for 3 months to research.
"Zariel smiled, sending a flutter through my chest, along with a sensation of familiarity, like I knew him. I wanted to tell him my secrets, my thoughts. Like this statue of an angel was my friend.
I needed him." - Cat 🫠🥰
But even after that she questions if she should go. Ummmm girl..... YES!
"The thought of saying no and sending him on his way left and unexpected pang in my heart, like leaving behined a sweet kitten at the animal shelter." - Cat
My thoughts- THEN GOOOOOOO
"I had milk in the fridge-- it would be a spoiled disaster when I returned if I was gone that long" - Cat
My thoughts- FUCK THAT MILK
"Research. It was for my research." -Cat
My thoughts- two birds girl, research and hot angel 😇
Once at the Ashen Mountain she learns that Zariel has a sister that is locked in the prison below for attempting to kill the High Artist (basically the highest ranking person on the mountain). So, Cat decides to dive head first into studying for her dissertation while also helping Zariel with trying to figure out a way to get them home.
While researching that, they find that the High Artist is plotting an unorthodox way of getting them home and now Zariel and Cat are in trouble. Will they be able to escape the High Artists clutches? Can they convince the other angels not to follow his plan? You'll have to read to find out!
First off, I ARC read Within the Darkening Woods back in June of 2024 and LOVED IT! So when I saw that Scarlett was offering ARCs for the second book in the Twisted Worlds series, I JUMPED on the opportunity to read it!
Second off, SCARLETT D VINE knows how to write male main characters! First with Eldrin being so devoted to Amber in WTDW. Now with Zariel and Cat. 🫠🥰
I am giving this book a 5/5🌟 and a 3/5🔥
This story was the perfect mix of spice and plot!
*PLEASE CHECK THE TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE READING THE BOOK ITSELF*
TW'S- Violence, gore, and harsh language, ritualistic human-esque sacrifice, potential cannibalism, consuming of various bodily fluids, explicit consensual sexual content.
"Don't worry--there's no accidental pregnancy in this book.
And if you're squeamish about feathers, you've been warned." - Scarlett D Vine.
Five years after the mortal world was changed by other realms merging with it, ultimately removing parts of the mortal world, Cat finds herself researching the military of the angels while working at the institute for the study of human-otherworld relations. (ISHOR) working on getting her doctorate.
With her knowledge in angels, whose Ashen Mountain landed not far from her university, she is invited to attend a summit meeting between the humans and angels to gain more information. That's when a certain angel catches her eye from across the room.
Zariel is an angel of lower ranking, though he has some pull as his father is important back home. But he lost some of that after his sister got locked up in the prison the Ashen Mountain is on top of. He is attending the summit meeting, but is quite bored until he notices a human hiding in a corner across the room.
Next thing Cat knows, this angel is in front of her, introducing himself and offering to take her to the Ashen Mountain, where no human has been before, for 3 months to research.
"Zariel smiled, sending a flutter through my chest, along with a sensation of familiarity, like I knew him. I wanted to tell him my secrets, my thoughts. Like this statue of an angel was my friend.
I needed him." - Cat 🫠🥰
But even after that she questions if she should go. Ummmm girl..... YES!
"The thought of saying no and sending him on his way left and unexpected pang in my heart, like leaving behined a sweet kitten at the animal shelter." - Cat
My thoughts- THEN GOOOOOOO
"I had milk in the fridge-- it would be a spoiled disaster when I returned if I was gone that long" - Cat
My thoughts- FUCK THAT MILK
"Research. It was for my research." -Cat
My thoughts- two birds girl, research and hot angel 😇
Once at the Ashen Mountain she learns that Zariel has a sister that is locked in the prison below for attempting to kill the High Artist (basically the highest ranking person on the mountain). So, Cat decides to dive head first into studying for her dissertation while also helping Zariel with trying to figure out a way to get them home.
While researching that, they find that the High Artist is plotting an unorthodox way of getting them home and now Zariel and Cat are in trouble. Will they be able to escape the High Artists clutches? Can they convince the other angels not to follow his plan? You'll have to read to find out!
December 29, 2024
Above the Ashen clouds is the second standalone installment in The Twisted Worlds series
Five years ago, the world changed in an unimaginable and mystical way. Pieces of the world were replaced by fragments of other worlds with magical beings and magical properties. Through the years, humans and the strange magical beings learned to co exist. Although some (the angels) decided to not interact with the human world that they were currently stuck in, until the Summit.
Cat, a political science major on the cusp of earning her PhD has always been interested in the mythical beings since they first appeared in her hometown of Princeton, New Jersey. Her dissertation about the non-earthly beings is sure to put her at the top academically. When the opportunity arises for her to attend the first Summit between the humans and angels, cat couldn’t resist. She was always fascinated by the angels who never integrated into the human population and wanted to know more about them and their mountain. She was meant to keep unnoticed, but observational during the Summit, that is, until she locked eyes with an angel. The most beautiful angel she had ever seen and he was looking at her…? Wait, that couldn’t be right. She wasn’t anyone important or even worth staring at, but she also couldn’t help staring right back at him. Something felt familiar in a sense.
Zariel, an angel archivist at the Ashen mountain was devoted to preserving and translating the texts inside the mountain library. He excelled at his job and was one of the best naturally, though he had no promotion to show for it. Zariel was set to stand in at the Summit to listen and to observe the interactions, take mental notes. One minutes he was listening and then the next minute his eyes were clashing with those of a humans through the seated crowd. There was a pull, a strong one. An undeniable bond that was wanting to fully snap in place. Zariel knew what it meant and he knew that he absolutely could not leave the Summit and go back to the mountain without the human girl, his mate.
I truly enjoyed this story of watching Cat and Zariel start to fall in love with each other’s minds and not just because of the bond. It was beautiful and fresh. And it all began when Zariel used a glamour at the Summit to bring Cat back to the mountain with him undetected by the other humans. Their days in the mountain together grew long and tedious. Working on studies with one another only brought them closer on a deeper level and also brought them to certain truths. Truths that could separate them and put them in harms way. Will they be able to overcome it all? Save the merging worlds from destruction? Come together to find a way to unmerge the worlds? This story has fated mates, a romance subplot and blood magic. It is well paced and vividly illustrated when reading!
Five years ago, the world changed in an unimaginable and mystical way. Pieces of the world were replaced by fragments of other worlds with magical beings and magical properties. Through the years, humans and the strange magical beings learned to co exist. Although some (the angels) decided to not interact with the human world that they were currently stuck in, until the Summit.
Cat, a political science major on the cusp of earning her PhD has always been interested in the mythical beings since they first appeared in her hometown of Princeton, New Jersey. Her dissertation about the non-earthly beings is sure to put her at the top academically. When the opportunity arises for her to attend the first Summit between the humans and angels, cat couldn’t resist. She was always fascinated by the angels who never integrated into the human population and wanted to know more about them and their mountain. She was meant to keep unnoticed, but observational during the Summit, that is, until she locked eyes with an angel. The most beautiful angel she had ever seen and he was looking at her…? Wait, that couldn’t be right. She wasn’t anyone important or even worth staring at, but she also couldn’t help staring right back at him. Something felt familiar in a sense.
Zariel, an angel archivist at the Ashen mountain was devoted to preserving and translating the texts inside the mountain library. He excelled at his job and was one of the best naturally, though he had no promotion to show for it. Zariel was set to stand in at the Summit to listen and to observe the interactions, take mental notes. One minutes he was listening and then the next minute his eyes were clashing with those of a humans through the seated crowd. There was a pull, a strong one. An undeniable bond that was wanting to fully snap in place. Zariel knew what it meant and he knew that he absolutely could not leave the Summit and go back to the mountain without the human girl, his mate.
I truly enjoyed this story of watching Cat and Zariel start to fall in love with each other’s minds and not just because of the bond. It was beautiful and fresh. And it all began when Zariel used a glamour at the Summit to bring Cat back to the mountain with him undetected by the other humans. Their days in the mountain together grew long and tedious. Working on studies with one another only brought them closer on a deeper level and also brought them to certain truths. Truths that could separate them and put them in harms way. Will they be able to overcome it all? Save the merging worlds from destruction? Come together to find a way to unmerge the worlds? This story has fated mates, a romance subplot and blood magic. It is well paced and vividly illustrated when reading!
January 6, 2025
First, big thanks to Scarlett D.Vine for the ARC!
I was lucky enough to read the first book in the Twisted Worlds series, 🍂WITHIN THE DARKENING WOODS🍂 last summer as an ARC also and I was pretty much obsessed with that book. I loved Amber and Eldrin’s story and I wasn’t disappointed with Cat and Zariel’s story either.
Story wise, you really feel the kind of closed off, trapped in a mountain, claustrophobic vibes that Cat is feeling. I’m not claustrophobic and have no issues being in enclosed spaces, but there were points where I had to get up and go outside and get fresh air I genuinely felt like I was in some dark, stuffy cave tunnel sneaking around like Cat and Zariel. Romance wise, I found this book spicy but not overly done. Nothing is overtly graphic or cringy nor is it banging every other page. It was the right amount of spice for a book this length. And speaking of length (not Zariel’s though) this is quite a bit shorter than WtDW and I do feel like we lose out on the opportunity to get to know a bit more about Cat and Zariel’s lives…because I kinda feel like we know nothing about either of them except that Cat is a academic workaholic with a creepy co-worker/Phd competitor and a satyr friend and Zariel is a buff, stoic, super smart, hot angel with one friend and a sister in prison.
Now, I did absolutely LOVE the feather plucking. I’m just picturing some uncooked chicken wings strapped onto the backs of people flailing around and it’s hilarious and also makes me hungry. Also, that tidbit at the end about the gods…that was intriguing.
So, despite wanting slightly more fleshed out characters, I enjoyed the unique take on angels and the will they/won’t they/when are they finally going to storylines. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series and can’t wait to see how this whole series comes together (but hopefully not for many more books).
I was lucky enough to read the first book in the Twisted Worlds series, 🍂WITHIN THE DARKENING WOODS🍂 last summer as an ARC also and I was pretty much obsessed with that book. I loved Amber and Eldrin’s story and I wasn’t disappointed with Cat and Zariel’s story either.
Story wise, you really feel the kind of closed off, trapped in a mountain, claustrophobic vibes that Cat is feeling. I’m not claustrophobic and have no issues being in enclosed spaces, but there were points where I had to get up and go outside and get fresh air I genuinely felt like I was in some dark, stuffy cave tunnel sneaking around like Cat and Zariel. Romance wise, I found this book spicy but not overly done. Nothing is overtly graphic or cringy nor is it banging every other page. It was the right amount of spice for a book this length. And speaking of length (not Zariel’s though) this is quite a bit shorter than WtDW and I do feel like we lose out on the opportunity to get to know a bit more about Cat and Zariel’s lives…because I kinda feel like we know nothing about either of them except that Cat is a academic workaholic with a creepy co-worker/Phd competitor and a satyr friend and Zariel is a buff, stoic, super smart, hot angel with one friend and a sister in prison.
Now, I did absolutely LOVE the feather plucking. I’m just picturing some uncooked chicken wings strapped onto the backs of people flailing around and it’s hilarious and also makes me hungry. Also, that tidbit at the end about the gods…that was intriguing.
So, despite wanting slightly more fleshed out characters, I enjoyed the unique take on angels and the will they/won’t they/when are they finally going to storylines. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series and can’t wait to see how this whole series comes together (but hopefully not for many more books).
January 15, 2025
Dark angels and blood magic, mystical ancient library and secret politics, an FMC with brains and wits and an MMC that is sweet and kind, throw in a sprinkle of trauma bonding and fated mates… and you have this beautiful second installment. With a completely unique take on angels that I don’t think I’ve seen done by anyone else. Oh, and there’s spice 😊, which was brilliantly done I might add, well placed, and served to enhance the story.
This story follows Cat, a PhD student who cannot get enough of the residents that have intermingled within her city after the fantastical worlds merged with her own, she wants to learn everything about them. When the opportunity arises to visit a nearby mountain with a certain angel, she is beyond excited. Zariel, the angel in question, who is convinced that the library that he calls home has the answers he needs to truly return to his home. But when he meets Cat at the summit between Angels and Humans, he is blown away. She’s his mate… which is a new and extremely rare occurrence as angels have never had a mate outside their species. The other angels are not so into the idea of them. Desperate to return to their true home, some of the other angels take to desperate measures… blood magic. As the pair attempts to uncover the mystery that is their worlds colliding through their love for academics, they learn to not only devour each other physically but intellectually and emotionally. Best way to beat the cold if you ask me!
Well written with epically perfect world building that continued from the first book. I absolutely loved book 1, Within the Darkening Woods, and book 2 did NOT disappoint. It was all I hoped for and more. Although this is a stand-alone, it is a part of an interconnected series, and it made my heart happy to see a smidge reference to the previous in this one because I loved it so much.
This story follows Cat, a PhD student who cannot get enough of the residents that have intermingled within her city after the fantastical worlds merged with her own, she wants to learn everything about them. When the opportunity arises to visit a nearby mountain with a certain angel, she is beyond excited. Zariel, the angel in question, who is convinced that the library that he calls home has the answers he needs to truly return to his home. But when he meets Cat at the summit between Angels and Humans, he is blown away. She’s his mate… which is a new and extremely rare occurrence as angels have never had a mate outside their species. The other angels are not so into the idea of them. Desperate to return to their true home, some of the other angels take to desperate measures… blood magic. As the pair attempts to uncover the mystery that is their worlds colliding through their love for academics, they learn to not only devour each other physically but intellectually and emotionally. Best way to beat the cold if you ask me!
Well written with epically perfect world building that continued from the first book. I absolutely loved book 1, Within the Darkening Woods, and book 2 did NOT disappoint. It was all I hoped for and more. Although this is a stand-alone, it is a part of an interconnected series, and it made my heart happy to see a smidge reference to the previous in this one because I loved it so much.
January 29, 2025
✨Above the Ashen Clouds✨
It was good to be back in the spliced world that Scarlett has created where earth finds itself with pieces of the fantastical realms converged upon its land. Places like Alaska now house elves and New Jersey now houses a mountain of angels alongside Princeton. In this installment, we reside in NJ and get to witness the beauty and the beast that are the angels.
In ATAC, we follow two POVs: Cat, our human FMC who is currently writing her dissertation on the angels that so mysteriously keep to themselves, and Zariel, our angelic MMC who is mostly content with his simple place of honor in the angel’s library despite having to work around his sister’s betrayal.
When they each go to a summit for humans and angels to begin friendly negotiations, Zariel finds himself directly in front of Cat despite his resistance, now looking down at the impossible fact that she is his mate. For the sake of knowledge, Cat agrees to go learn and get to know him in the angel’s mountain. But it’s far from simple research when they get there.
Facing adversity, secrets, uncovering plots, creating bonds, racing the clock before they must separate, while also getting to know each other beyond their bond, Cat and Zariel must not only fight for their forbidden love but also their lives.
ATAC is a pretty cozy Romantasy standalone with an overarching theme that connects with book one, Within the Darkening Woods, but isn’t necessary to have read. Scarlett does an amazing job making this book its own while also giving little jewels to those who have read the previous book.
Tropes you may find are fated mates, forbidden love, paranormal romance, angels and fantastical creatures, “mine”, blood and bonds, medium spice, forced proximity, one bed, and a completed ending.
I am thankful to have gotten to read this gifted arc. Thank you!
It was good to be back in the spliced world that Scarlett has created where earth finds itself with pieces of the fantastical realms converged upon its land. Places like Alaska now house elves and New Jersey now houses a mountain of angels alongside Princeton. In this installment, we reside in NJ and get to witness the beauty and the beast that are the angels.
In ATAC, we follow two POVs: Cat, our human FMC who is currently writing her dissertation on the angels that so mysteriously keep to themselves, and Zariel, our angelic MMC who is mostly content with his simple place of honor in the angel’s library despite having to work around his sister’s betrayal.
When they each go to a summit for humans and angels to begin friendly negotiations, Zariel finds himself directly in front of Cat despite his resistance, now looking down at the impossible fact that she is his mate. For the sake of knowledge, Cat agrees to go learn and get to know him in the angel’s mountain. But it’s far from simple research when they get there.
Facing adversity, secrets, uncovering plots, creating bonds, racing the clock before they must separate, while also getting to know each other beyond their bond, Cat and Zariel must not only fight for their forbidden love but also their lives.
ATAC is a pretty cozy Romantasy standalone with an overarching theme that connects with book one, Within the Darkening Woods, but isn’t necessary to have read. Scarlett does an amazing job making this book its own while also giving little jewels to those who have read the previous book.
Tropes you may find are fated mates, forbidden love, paranormal romance, angels and fantastical creatures, “mine”, blood and bonds, medium spice, forced proximity, one bed, and a completed ending.
I am thankful to have gotten to read this gifted arc. Thank you!
February 17, 2025
Scarlett D’Vine has once again delivered a fresh, new Romantasy! Above the Ashen Clouds is book 2 in the interconnected, standalone “Twisted Worlds” series. The series is set in modern day where fantasy lands and their inhabitants have crashed into our world.
Cat is a PhD student who is fascinated with studying the new inhabitants within their world. She has opportunity to attend a summit meeting with the angels from the Ashen Mountain. Zariel is an angel who works as an archivist within the massive library within the Ashen Mountain. As soon as Zariel lays eyes on Cat at the summit meeting, the mating bond snaps in place. This has never happened with anyone outside of his species… and the angels aren’t a species that would typically allow intermingling with other races.
What I loved about AtAC: Zariel. Holy moly. He is smart, tall, handsome, and delicious! He was so loving and kind and I loved the relationship he built with Cat. It was built beautifully! I also loved the continued world building. I love that we find out how the world’s (possibly?) collided.
What I didn’t love so much: 1. the um… feathers in the mating scene. While I applaud Scarlett for her creativity, I created an awkward picture in my head and I’m a little “icked” out by it! 😂 2. The pluck you like a chicken scene. 😂 Once again… it just icked me out. No clue why… 😂.
Overall, neither of these icks were that serious, so I still enjoyed the book and I can’t wait for more!
🖤 Thank you Scarlett D’Vine & Book Sirens for graciously providing the arc in return for an honest review.
Cat is a PhD student who is fascinated with studying the new inhabitants within their world. She has opportunity to attend a summit meeting with the angels from the Ashen Mountain. Zariel is an angel who works as an archivist within the massive library within the Ashen Mountain. As soon as Zariel lays eyes on Cat at the summit meeting, the mating bond snaps in place. This has never happened with anyone outside of his species… and the angels aren’t a species that would typically allow intermingling with other races.
What I loved about AtAC: Zariel. Holy moly. He is smart, tall, handsome, and delicious! He was so loving and kind and I loved the relationship he built with Cat. It was built beautifully! I also loved the continued world building. I love that we find out how the world’s (possibly?) collided.
What I didn’t love so much: 1. the um… feathers in the mating scene. While I applaud Scarlett for her creativity, I created an awkward picture in my head and I’m a little “icked” out by it! 😂 2. The pluck you like a chicken scene. 😂 Once again… it just icked me out. No clue why… 😂.
Overall, neither of these icks were that serious, so I still enjoyed the book and I can’t wait for more!
🖤 Thank you Scarlett D’Vine & Book Sirens for graciously providing the arc in return for an honest review.
January 29, 2025
Five years ago, a metallic, ash-covered mountain containing countless angels appeared outside Princeton, New Jersey. Political Science PhD student, Cat, is studying the possible influence the angels could have on the United States government. When she gets invited to visit the angel's mountain home, she jumps at the chance. Zariel is an angelic archivist who is shocked to discover Cat is his mate. As the two explore their budding relationship, they become aware of a sinister plot to return the angels home that is bound to create extremely problematic repercussions. Can the two stop the treacherous scheme before it's too late?
This book is not your typical paranormal romance. Both Cat and Zariel are extremely logical characters, to the point that they actively fight the urges of their mate bond until they are confident that they want to pursue a relationship. Their refusal to be led by feelings alone give their actions greater depth when they decide that they are going all in in their relationship. The angels severe prejudice against other species and willingness to engage in dark blood magic gives a very sinister and oppressive atmosphere.
Above the Ashen Clouds is an extremely creative addition to the Twisted Worlds series. With it's extremely studious characters, blood-thirsty angels, and intrigue, I couldn't put it down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book is not your typical paranormal romance. Both Cat and Zariel are extremely logical characters, to the point that they actively fight the urges of their mate bond until they are confident that they want to pursue a relationship. Their refusal to be led by feelings alone give their actions greater depth when they decide that they are going all in in their relationship. The angels severe prejudice against other species and willingness to engage in dark blood magic gives a very sinister and oppressive atmosphere.
Above the Ashen Clouds is an extremely creative addition to the Twisted Worlds series. With it's extremely studious characters, blood-thirsty angels, and intrigue, I couldn't put it down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🌶🌶 out of 5
💫Fantasy Meets Modern World
🪽Angel x Human Scholars
🫂Close Proximity
❤️🔥Fated Mates
Review:
This was a wonderful, easy fantasy read with the sweet academic pairing of an angel and a human. The angels in this reality come from a different plane of world but have mysteriously merged with our modern human one.
Other fantastical beings joined too but we focus on the angels in this book installment of an interconnected series.
Cat is the only human to be invited into the angels' floating mountain in the sky. The handsome academic angel, Zariel, discovers this human is his mate, the first inter species bond of this kind, and we get a forced proximity and sweet relationship henceforth.
We learn a lot about the angels naturally since they're both scholars interested in each other but I truly felt how their feelings grew to true friendship and love despite it being a mated bond initially.
There's a secondary drama that's effective in how the angels are trying to return home. And the threat of them being separated becomes a concern. But overall it's a lighter feeling story and a fairly brisk read. It's a fun world to escape to and lots of thought put into its building. I really liked Zariel and how patient and kind he was, and Cat was equally sweet, caring, and inquisitive. Very much enjoyed the focus on this angel x human couple and their learning to love one another.
🌶🌶 out of 5
💫Fantasy Meets Modern World
🪽Angel x Human Scholars
🫂Close Proximity
❤️🔥Fated Mates
Review:
This was a wonderful, easy fantasy read with the sweet academic pairing of an angel and a human. The angels in this reality come from a different plane of world but have mysteriously merged with our modern human one.
Other fantastical beings joined too but we focus on the angels in this book installment of an interconnected series.
Cat is the only human to be invited into the angels' floating mountain in the sky. The handsome academic angel, Zariel, discovers this human is his mate, the first inter species bond of this kind, and we get a forced proximity and sweet relationship henceforth.
We learn a lot about the angels naturally since they're both scholars interested in each other but I truly felt how their feelings grew to true friendship and love despite it being a mated bond initially.
There's a secondary drama that's effective in how the angels are trying to return home. And the threat of them being separated becomes a concern. But overall it's a lighter feeling story and a fairly brisk read. It's a fun world to escape to and lots of thought put into its building. I really liked Zariel and how patient and kind he was, and Cat was equally sweet, caring, and inquisitive. Very much enjoyed the focus on this angel x human couple and their learning to love one another.
February 22, 2025
I have to tell you, I’m utterly captivated by this series! I can’t get enough of it—I'm completely obsessed and fully invested in every twist and turn! The idea of worlds from a different plane mysteriously merging is something I haven't encountered before, and I am a total sucker for new and fresh concepts. Scarlett D. Vine is brilliant.
"Above the Ashen Clouds" is part of the Twisted Worlds standalone series. You can read this book without having read the first one, but I highly recommend that you don’t skip it. "Within the Darkening Woods" is my favorite because I connect deeply with the vibes of the couple and the setting of perpetual fall. In "Above the Ashen Clouds," the atmosphere contrasts significantly between the couple and the setting. This, in my opinion, makes the reading experience even more exciting because Scarlett allows you to truly feel how each couple responds to the changes in their world. I'm so excited to discover the surprises the next book will unveil!
The spice in this book is perfectly placed, with just the right amount of slow burn as Cat and Zariel yearn to know each other better. The flying scene was the cherry on top!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"Above the Ashen Clouds" is part of the Twisted Worlds standalone series. You can read this book without having read the first one, but I highly recommend that you don’t skip it. "Within the Darkening Woods" is my favorite because I connect deeply with the vibes of the couple and the setting of perpetual fall. In "Above the Ashen Clouds," the atmosphere contrasts significantly between the couple and the setting. This, in my opinion, makes the reading experience even more exciting because Scarlett allows you to truly feel how each couple responds to the changes in their world. I'm so excited to discover the surprises the next book will unveil!
The spice in this book is perfectly placed, with just the right amount of slow burn as Cat and Zariel yearn to know each other better. The flying scene was the cherry on top!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 24, 2025
I love this series !! Thank you to the author for the ARC- I apologize for such a late review but I am finally here!
So I read within the darkening woods and was really tickled by the storyline and the combination of human and magical elements. The characters were all distinct and the plot line was actually quite good.
This was even better in Above the Ashen Clouds! I absolutely love the unique way the author made angels into academic prodigies and removed the religious part, it was quite funny to see them react to humans thinking they are true angels in the “human sense”. I also like that although this was fated mates, the characters really built up a friendship and relationship first and had so much in common. It made the story more realistic. All the plot twists in the story were great too, I liked the academic part of this because we dive more into WHY the worlds suddenly combined with bits and pieces of each other. This book made me laugh and gave me the right amount of thrill! Spice was also very nice (🌶️🌶️🌶️-🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ -for me this means it’s the right avalanche of enough spice without the plot sucking). I can’t wait for the next one in this universe to come out I am very excited !
So I read within the darkening woods and was really tickled by the storyline and the combination of human and magical elements. The characters were all distinct and the plot line was actually quite good.
This was even better in Above the Ashen Clouds! I absolutely love the unique way the author made angels into academic prodigies and removed the religious part, it was quite funny to see them react to humans thinking they are true angels in the “human sense”. I also like that although this was fated mates, the characters really built up a friendship and relationship first and had so much in common. It made the story more realistic. All the plot twists in the story were great too, I liked the academic part of this because we dive more into WHY the worlds suddenly combined with bits and pieces of each other. This book made me laugh and gave me the right amount of thrill! Spice was also very nice (🌶️🌶️🌶️-🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ -for me this means it’s the right avalanche of enough spice without the plot sucking). I can’t wait for the next one in this universe to come out I am very excited !
February 28, 2025
Whil the Ashen Clouds is book 2 in the Twisted Worlds series, it can be read as a standalone. In this world, there is an event that causes parts of earth to disappear and be replaced with parts of other, magical worlds.
Our protagonists, Cat (a human PhD student at Princeton) and Zariel (an angel archivist) meet when the angels come down their mountain, that appeared in New Jersey 5 years ago, to trade knowledge and information for much needed supplies. At the summit between the humans and angels, Zariel realizes that Cat is his fated mate.
Because of angelic law governing fated mates, Zariel is able to bring Cat to the Ashen Mountain, making her the first human from earth to see inside the mountain (which she is thrilled about, because the info she could gather would make for a KILLER dissertation).
I loved that even though they are fated mates, Zariel and Cat actually take the time to get to know each other before they do anything about solidifying the mate bond. And (I can't give details because *spoilers*) SHE saves HIM during the final showdown between the baddies that threaten them (and the whole world TBH).
Our protagonists, Cat (a human PhD student at Princeton) and Zariel (an angel archivist) meet when the angels come down their mountain, that appeared in New Jersey 5 years ago, to trade knowledge and information for much needed supplies. At the summit between the humans and angels, Zariel realizes that Cat is his fated mate.
Because of angelic law governing fated mates, Zariel is able to bring Cat to the Ashen Mountain, making her the first human from earth to see inside the mountain (which she is thrilled about, because the info she could gather would make for a KILLER dissertation).
I loved that even though they are fated mates, Zariel and Cat actually take the time to get to know each other before they do anything about solidifying the mate bond. And (I can't give details because *spoilers*) SHE saves HIM during the final showdown between the baddies that threaten them (and the whole world TBH).
February 21, 2025
I'm obsessed with the Twisted Worlds series. Last year, I read Within the Darkening Woods, a cozy fantasy with a beautiful world description that made me feel like I was in the woods in the middle of fall. Above the Ashen Clouds is set in the same world but in a different location. The vibes are still there, and there are even more amazing characters.
Cat is such a fun character. She wants to know everything about the new mythical beings that have arrived, so she dedicates her thesis to discovering everything about them, especially the Angels. She grows so much during the story, and I really enjoyed her.
I thought Eldrin would be forever my favorite, but Zadriel is such a great MMC that he won my heart. I love how moody he is and protective of his world. The relationship with Cat is wonderful, so intellectual and respectful; I'm obsessed. One of my favorite tropes is fated mates, and Scarlett does it perfectly.
I liked this book so much; the plot was so intriguing, and it kept me glued to the pages. Thank you so much, Scarlett, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
Cat is such a fun character. She wants to know everything about the new mythical beings that have arrived, so she dedicates her thesis to discovering everything about them, especially the Angels. She grows so much during the story, and I really enjoyed her.
I thought Eldrin would be forever my favorite, but Zadriel is such a great MMC that he won my heart. I love how moody he is and protective of his world. The relationship with Cat is wonderful, so intellectual and respectful; I'm obsessed. One of my favorite tropes is fated mates, and Scarlett does it perfectly.
I liked this book so much; the plot was so intriguing, and it kept me glued to the pages. Thank you so much, Scarlett, for the opportunity to read this as an ARC.
January 3, 2025
This was everything I hoped it would be based on the promotions that I saw. It was filled with mystery, academia, a brilliant library, slightly morbid angels, secret politics and a sacrificial altar. It was perfect to read around this time of year with all of the ash and snow. It was a lovely standalone, and yet the odd mention of the darkening woods and the elves made it feel comfortingly known. I still thing the Twisted Worlds series is such a unique concept and I loved returning to it. If you look at the cover and are considering it, read it. If you read Within the Darkening Woods and enjoyed it, read it. If you want some dark angels and a mystical library, read it. I enjoyed this so much, and am very pleased it was my first book of 2025!
🪽I received an ARC of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily🪽
🪽I received an ARC of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily🪽
January 12, 2025
After having read Within the Darkening Woods, I was ecstatic to receive a free copy of the next book!
It's funny, really. I thought, "When is she going to come out with the next book?!" Less than a week later, the invite is sitting in my email. Same basic concept as the first one. It would be a pretty poor series if it wasn't, though… The thought that you could wake up one day and find an entire segment of land completely replaced by a mountain… Crazy! I just loved Catalina and Zariel's story. They both tried so hard to deny themselves, but it simply could not be done. And it was nice to see a woman step in to save a man, for a change! That NEVER happens. But, at the very end, hearing from Amber?! Eeeeek! So exciting! I can't wait for the next one! I mean, "When is she going to come out with the next book?!" *checks email*
It's funny, really. I thought, "When is she going to come out with the next book?!" Less than a week later, the invite is sitting in my email. Same basic concept as the first one. It would be a pretty poor series if it wasn't, though… The thought that you could wake up one day and find an entire segment of land completely replaced by a mountain… Crazy! I just loved Catalina and Zariel's story. They both tried so hard to deny themselves, but it simply could not be done. And it was nice to see a woman step in to save a man, for a change! That NEVER happens. But, at the very end, hearing from Amber?! Eeeeek! So exciting! I can't wait for the next one! I mean, "When is she going to come out with the next book?!" *checks email*
January 18, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Above the Ashen Clouds is the second book in a series of standalone books. Although you can read it without reading the previous book, if you want to avoid spoilers, it's better to read the first one first and then this one.
Cat is a political scientist who is working on her PhD. Zariel is an angel archivist who lives on Ashen Mountain. They first meet during the first Summit between humans and angels. For a moment, everything was fine, and then Zariel felt a strong pull towards her. She is his mate and he can't leave without her.
I enjoyed it. Watching Cat and Zariel slowly fall in love was amazing. I loved that he asked her if she wanted to go to Ashen Mountain with him and didn't demand it. Their relationship was so sweet. They studied together, and that brought them close.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Above the Ashen Clouds is the second book in a series of standalone books. Although you can read it without reading the previous book, if you want to avoid spoilers, it's better to read the first one first and then this one.
Cat is a political scientist who is working on her PhD. Zariel is an angel archivist who lives on Ashen Mountain. They first meet during the first Summit between humans and angels. For a moment, everything was fine, and then Zariel felt a strong pull towards her. She is his mate and he can't leave without her.
I enjoyed it. Watching Cat and Zariel slowly fall in love was amazing. I loved that he asked her if she wanted to go to Ashen Mountain with him and didn't demand it. Their relationship was so sweet. They studied together, and that brought them close.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2025
I was generously sent an ARC of Above The Ashen Clouds by the author.
After reading Within the Darkening Woods, I wanted to know more about the other creatures that crash landed into our world. The story of Cat and Zariel was very interesting, and the brutality of angels that was hinted at was no exaggeration.
I enjoyed this book a lot, and was delighted when I reached the point where it crossed over with the first book, to the point where I went back to Darkening to re-acquaint myself with the story.
As with Darkening, this book resolved the problem nicely, but left the ending open for future books. I'm theorizing the next book with be about rusalkas and wonder how many books will be in this series.
Thank you again to Scarlett D. Vine for the ARC! I'm looking forward to getting physical copies of the series when it's complete!
After reading Within the Darkening Woods, I wanted to know more about the other creatures that crash landed into our world. The story of Cat and Zariel was very interesting, and the brutality of angels that was hinted at was no exaggeration.
I enjoyed this book a lot, and was delighted when I reached the point where it crossed over with the first book, to the point where I went back to Darkening to re-acquaint myself with the story.
As with Darkening, this book resolved the problem nicely, but left the ending open for future books. I'm theorizing the next book with be about rusalkas and wonder how many books will be in this series.
Thank you again to Scarlett D. Vine for the ARC! I'm looking forward to getting physical copies of the series when it's complete!
January 31, 2025
I really enjoy how this book is part of an interconnected series about magical lands being switched with human lands in some parallel world split.
In the first book we meet Elves with bony arms living in a forest of eternal autumn. This time we meet Angels and scholars living within a mountain and surrounded by burning ash clouds. They’re cunning, intelligent, wear robes and drink blood.
A human scholar finds herself mated to one of those Angels and there’s a lot of time spent resisting their bond.
In the end they come one step closer to figuring out how their world landed on Earth and what they can do to return.
It’s a quick and easy read, with low stakes conflict, and a sprinkle of romance and spice.
In the first book we meet Elves with bony arms living in a forest of eternal autumn. This time we meet Angels and scholars living within a mountain and surrounded by burning ash clouds. They’re cunning, intelligent, wear robes and drink blood.
A human scholar finds herself mated to one of those Angels and there’s a lot of time spent resisting their bond.
In the end they come one step closer to figuring out how their world landed on Earth and what they can do to return.
It’s a quick and easy read, with low stakes conflict, and a sprinkle of romance and spice.
March 5, 2025
Thank you BookSirens, and Scarlett D. Vine for sending me this advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is one you will want to check the TW list for if you have issues with blood, cannibalism, and ritual sacrifice. It gets a bit intense, and is more unusual to find in standard Romantasy.
This book was a wild ride, and will change everything you may have thought about angels after reading it. The magic system is unique, and a lot different than anything else I've read before.
I loved all of the characters, and even with the limited cast because of the setting, it felt like the perfect amount. I also love how it ties in to the previous book, but can also be read as a stand alone with no problem.
It is impossible to pick a favorite this time. I love Cat and Zariel equally. They both have their strengths and flaws, but they fit together perfectly. The bond didn't feel forced, and Zariel is the king of consent. The spicy scenes are perfection, and not overdone at all. Mid air spice is always a fun touch too.
The twists and turns were epic, and the pacing was spot on the entire time. It was a surprisingly fast read, because it was almost impossible to put the book down.
I can't wait to see where we go in the next book in the series. I know it will be just as amazing as the first two books!
This is one you will want to check the TW list for if you have issues with blood, cannibalism, and ritual sacrifice. It gets a bit intense, and is more unusual to find in standard Romantasy.
This book was a wild ride, and will change everything you may have thought about angels after reading it. The magic system is unique, and a lot different than anything else I've read before.
I loved all of the characters, and even with the limited cast because of the setting, it felt like the perfect amount. I also love how it ties in to the previous book, but can also be read as a stand alone with no problem.
It is impossible to pick a favorite this time. I love Cat and Zariel equally. They both have their strengths and flaws, but they fit together perfectly. The bond didn't feel forced, and Zariel is the king of consent. The spicy scenes are perfection, and not overdone at all. Mid air spice is always a fun touch too.
The twists and turns were epic, and the pacing was spot on the entire time. It was a surprisingly fast read, because it was almost impossible to put the book down.
I can't wait to see where we go in the next book in the series. I know it will be just as amazing as the first two books!
March 19, 2025
⭐️: 3.5/5
🌶️: 6 on RCRS (open door spice)
D Vine is onto a winning formula with this series - it’s solid romantasy and her spin on the various races so far are pretty cool (& slightly twisted). I am currently in my green flag MMC era, so these two were a perfect fit for me, however I struggled a bit with the set up of the connection between the two; I can’t quite imagine someone just leaving with a stranger for months without any warning.
But, I f you’re looking for a good romance first fantasy with some interesting spice (think: while flying) then look no further!
Thank you to D Vine for the opportunity to read & review Above the Ashen Cloud.
🌶️: 6 on RCRS (open door spice)
D Vine is onto a winning formula with this series - it’s solid romantasy and her spin on the various races so far are pretty cool (& slightly twisted). I am currently in my green flag MMC era, so these two were a perfect fit for me, however I struggled a bit with the set up of the connection between the two; I can’t quite imagine someone just leaving with a stranger for months without any warning.
But, I f you’re looking for a good romance first fantasy with some interesting spice (think: while flying) then look no further!
Thank you to D Vine for the opportunity to read & review Above the Ashen Cloud.
January 14, 2025
this was a strong sequel in the Twisted Worlds series, it had that element that I enjoyed from the first book. I enjoyed that this was a set of standalone and how the romance was done in this book. I was invested in what was happening with the characters and enjoyed the overall feel of this. Scarlett D. Vine has a strong writing style and I enjoyed the way the romance was realistic. It was everything that I enjoyed from the first book and enjoyed the monster romance going on.
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.
March 1, 2025
I absolutely devoured this book! I basically read this in one sitting as I couldn’t put the book down. The story is fast-paced and easy to follow. My only gripe is I wish there was more! I’m excited for the next installment, whenever that may be. There were some grotesque elements with the rituals aspect but nothing I couldn’t tolerate. Catalina and Zariel were cute and I’d love to see more of them down the line.
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.
January 30, 2025
A wonderful story and a fast easy read. This is the second standalone story in the Twisted Worlds series. The books can be read individually but may be more satisfying to be read as a series. to get the full impact of this world. I really enjoyed the romantasy, the characters are likable, a human woman studying at a university and an angel who is also an academic, both navigating their bond and the two different worlds.
I received an arc of this book and all opinions are my own.
I received an arc of this book and all opinions are my own.
December 13, 2024
What a beautiful story. Zariel and Cat went through extensive turmoil together in such a short period of time yet love always prevails. Scarlett, I love your work and truly enjoy your unique writing style.
January 2, 2025
I loved Cat. She was smart, funny, and fierce. Zariel was kind and lovable. This is a book perfect for those who want a fun romance with some plot/unpredicability (still an HEA) and romance characters that can think with their heads and groins.
February 20, 2025
Above the Ashen Clouds is another cute installment in the Twisted Worlds series. The main relationship happens fast (but for a good reason), and the couple is just a really sweet pairing. They’re both kind of nerds. The world building in this installment was great as well. I really love the idea of worlds splitting and sections of land randomly swapping places with another world, introducing what we previously thought were mythical beings to our world. As it turns out, myth became reality in the blink of an eye.
I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, and I’m super excited to see where it goes next! Thank you to Scarlett D. Vine for the eARC of Above the Ashen Clouds!
I’ve really enjoyed this series so far, and I’m super excited to see where it goes next! Thank you to Scarlett D. Vine for the eARC of Above the Ashen Clouds!
January 15, 2025
Loved it, but I was missing something
⭐️ 4,5/5
🌶 2/5
⭐️ 4,5/5
🌶 2/5
June 11, 2025
Love the premise and the yearning! Zariel and Cat are so cute together aaaaa
February 26, 2025
Five years after the shifting of the worlds, the angels that have been secluded in an inaccessible mountain are ready to meet for a summit with the humans. This is where political science student, Cat, and librarian angel, Zariel, meet. Though their pull to each other is unusual, they work together to find out what the leader of the Angels is up to and how they can help remedy the shift.
Both of the Twisted Worlds books fit in so well with the seasons, this one being such a nice winter read (and we got snow while I was reading it! 🙌). I also loved the subtle ties to the first book. It was so fun to come back to this world where Earth has partially shifted and is now shared with fantastical creatures. The mountain where the angels live houses their prison and library, as both need to be guarded, which I think is a pretty cool concept. I didn't expect how much I would be giggling throughout this quirky book. There are cute modern references, eccentric spicy scenes, and I'm still wanting more information about some special little feathers. 😆 It was such a nice, light good time!
Thanks so much to the author @authorscarlettdvine for providing me with an early copy!
"𝑰 𝒅𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆, 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏."
I just love some proper bookish angel sweet talk.😉
Both of the Twisted Worlds books fit in so well with the seasons, this one being such a nice winter read (and we got snow while I was reading it! 🙌). I also loved the subtle ties to the first book. It was so fun to come back to this world where Earth has partially shifted and is now shared with fantastical creatures. The mountain where the angels live houses their prison and library, as both need to be guarded, which I think is a pretty cool concept. I didn't expect how much I would be giggling throughout this quirky book. There are cute modern references, eccentric spicy scenes, and I'm still wanting more information about some special little feathers. 😆 It was such a nice, light good time!
Thanks so much to the author @authorscarlettdvine for providing me with an early copy!
"𝑰 𝒅𝒐 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒊𝒓𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒃𝒍𝒆, 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒙𝒄𝒍𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏."
I just love some proper bookish angel sweet talk.😉
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