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Secrets and Starlight
Her magic could destroy them all. Their passion could save the world.
Ayla needs help. She has more magic than ever before and no control over it. Not only is she dangerous to everyone around her, her magical bond with Zayne is growing stronger—and it’s all she can do to resist it.
Zayne has an island to save and new powers he detests. The curse on his homeland remains, and only a set of black diamond shards hidden away at a trade assembly can fix it. Except it means sneaking into the assembly while yearning for a woman whose magic doesn’t know the meaning of subtle.
As their irresistible passions bring the reluctant pair closer, the nightly ballroom parties hide something altogether more sinister. Someone is controlling the curse on Zayne’s homeland. If Ayla and Zayne don’t master their magic or have the courage to strengthen their bond, they’ll not only doom their loved ones—they’ll doom each other.
Secrets and Starlight is the second sizzling romantasy book in the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love morally gray men, court intrigues, and accidental mates, slide into Secrets and Starlight!
Ayla needs help. She has more magic than ever before and no control over it. Not only is she dangerous to everyone around her, her magical bond with Zayne is growing stronger—and it’s all she can do to resist it.
Zayne has an island to save and new powers he detests. The curse on his homeland remains, and only a set of black diamond shards hidden away at a trade assembly can fix it. Except it means sneaking into the assembly while yearning for a woman whose magic doesn’t know the meaning of subtle.
As their irresistible passions bring the reluctant pair closer, the nightly ballroom parties hide something altogether more sinister. Someone is controlling the curse on Zayne’s homeland. If Ayla and Zayne don’t master their magic or have the courage to strengthen their bond, they’ll not only doom their loved ones—they’ll doom each other.
Secrets and Starlight is the second sizzling romantasy book in the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love morally gray men, court intrigues, and accidental mates, slide into Secrets and Starlight!
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2025
About the author
Mel Braxton
15 books76 followersMel doesn't know what to do with reality, so she daydreams of fantastical places. With strong heroines, thrilling plots, and toe-curling romance, she captivates readers with her storytelling. She loves her family, especially Lulu the dog, who mistakenly believes Mel’s job is to be a professional puppy cuddler.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 28, 2026
I can't believe I didn't know this author earlier, my goodness, can she tell a story! Not only is she extremely proficient an author, she infuses magic into her prose, how else can I explain that it hooks me tighter than a fish, reeling me in, page by page but I don't want to be released, I'm engrossed, I'm bewitched.... I was already in love with Zayne and Ayla from the first book, now, well yes, now I'm in the obsessed category.
Picking up directly from book 1, Ninti, Ayla and Zayne journey to Mer, on the hunt for the shattered shards. Right amongst those responsible for the shades, right into the enemies lair.... Someone, or someone's, are intent on spreading Gloom over all the continents, for whatever purpose. A purpose that neither Zayne nor Ayla can decipher. Lies, half truths, betrayals are the order of the day, court politics wrapped tighter than a baritto. The Starlight king's motives are peppered with innuendos and mystery, so too are Calindra's, only adding yet another layer of intrigue to an already intriguing tale.
Oh do I just adore Rhett! He's super cool, super fun and a super awesome friend to Ayla. I loved his "thing" with Iona and golly were there surprises along the way from both of them! I was thrilled to get more insight into Ninti, her protectiveness and love of Ayla just too beautiful for words, and so help me, was I stunned by what happens with Ninti, floored! In a good way... All the characters are immensely real, their emotions are real, their anguish is real. What a delight to see them grow closer throughout the book, their adventures become more deadly and intricate, their reasoning, at times, threatening to overcome me.
He is Shadow, she is Light, polar opposites, which is more pronounced as Ayla's magic grows exponentially. Uncontrollably. The uncertainty, their doubt in their ability, the insecurities they both have, are a direct indication of their less than ideal past, neither feel worthy. But, the unintended bond they'd developed got stronger and stronger the more time they spent together, the steam which erupted from this tethering... hell I was fanning myself! Delicious! There is so much I could wax lyrical about both Ayla and Zayne but I'd be trying your patience. Suffice to say, Zayne is an EXCEPTIONAL person, I couldn't love him more if I tried. Patient, loving, caring, giving, oozing sex appeal. While Anya tries so hard to resist, she's as smitten as I am. The bonds that develop, one toe curling sensually, one a beacon to guide her through the darkest night, and one unexpected bond shook me to my core.
Geez, at one point I was in sheer terror and anguish, which, thankfully, the author gently led me away from the precipice. Good glory, she threw me into a spin like a child's toy top with the events churning around me. Revelation after revelation, twist after twist, one bombshell after the next, my head was filled with images so vivid, so incredibly well written, I could barely exhale! Shoo, when the Starlight king dropped HIS bombshell, I was as flabbergasted as Ayla. As if THAT wasn't enough, the author yanked the right from under me, completely unexpectedly, like, WTH???? Then the topper that nearly undid me, those last 2 chapters, my eyes getting bigger and bigger with every word...And it's burning a hole in my psychi not being able to say what... Gee whiz, you need to read it...
I loved the pacing, it was like an elevator propelling me smoothly from one side to the next, no jarring, just a smooth, adrenaline filled and awesome ride. These 2 quotes I couldn't get out of my soul, they settled there, bringing me as much warmth as Ninti's fire...."I knew you were precious from the moment we met. When you sat beside me, pretending to be someone you weren’t, I knew you had the power to ruin me." And this one, “I will do whatever I must to ensure our future together. For you, Ayla, I’ll become the villain.” sigh.... just sigh...
Picking up directly from book 1, Ninti, Ayla and Zayne journey to Mer, on the hunt for the shattered shards. Right amongst those responsible for the shades, right into the enemies lair.... Someone, or someone's, are intent on spreading Gloom over all the continents, for whatever purpose. A purpose that neither Zayne nor Ayla can decipher. Lies, half truths, betrayals are the order of the day, court politics wrapped tighter than a baritto. The Starlight king's motives are peppered with innuendos and mystery, so too are Calindra's, only adding yet another layer of intrigue to an already intriguing tale.
Oh do I just adore Rhett! He's super cool, super fun and a super awesome friend to Ayla. I loved his "thing" with Iona and golly were there surprises along the way from both of them! I was thrilled to get more insight into Ninti, her protectiveness and love of Ayla just too beautiful for words, and so help me, was I stunned by what happens with Ninti, floored! In a good way... All the characters are immensely real, their emotions are real, their anguish is real. What a delight to see them grow closer throughout the book, their adventures become more deadly and intricate, their reasoning, at times, threatening to overcome me.
He is Shadow, she is Light, polar opposites, which is more pronounced as Ayla's magic grows exponentially. Uncontrollably. The uncertainty, their doubt in their ability, the insecurities they both have, are a direct indication of their less than ideal past, neither feel worthy. But, the unintended bond they'd developed got stronger and stronger the more time they spent together, the steam which erupted from this tethering... hell I was fanning myself! Delicious! There is so much I could wax lyrical about both Ayla and Zayne but I'd be trying your patience. Suffice to say, Zayne is an EXCEPTIONAL person, I couldn't love him more if I tried. Patient, loving, caring, giving, oozing sex appeal. While Anya tries so hard to resist, she's as smitten as I am. The bonds that develop, one toe curling sensually, one a beacon to guide her through the darkest night, and one unexpected bond shook me to my core.
Geez, at one point I was in sheer terror and anguish, which, thankfully, the author gently led me away from the precipice. Good glory, she threw me into a spin like a child's toy top with the events churning around me. Revelation after revelation, twist after twist, one bombshell after the next, my head was filled with images so vivid, so incredibly well written, I could barely exhale! Shoo, when the Starlight king dropped HIS bombshell, I was as flabbergasted as Ayla. As if THAT wasn't enough, the author yanked the right from under me, completely unexpectedly, like, WTH???? Then the topper that nearly undid me, those last 2 chapters, my eyes getting bigger and bigger with every word...And it's burning a hole in my psychi not being able to say what... Gee whiz, you need to read it...
I loved the pacing, it was like an elevator propelling me smoothly from one side to the next, no jarring, just a smooth, adrenaline filled and awesome ride. These 2 quotes I couldn't get out of my soul, they settled there, bringing me as much warmth as Ninti's fire...."I knew you were precious from the moment we met. When you sat beside me, pretending to be someone you weren’t, I knew you had the power to ruin me." And this one, “I will do whatever I must to ensure our future together. For you, Ayla, I’ll become the villain.” sigh.... just sigh...
July 16, 2026
Secrets and Starlight was such a strong follow-up, and I enjoyed it even more than the first book. ✨🌙 It picked up immediately where Shadow and Smite ended, throwing Ayla and Zayne straight back into danger while expanding both the world and the stakes in the best way.
After defeating Inarus and helping Eleanor claim the throne, Ayla and Zayne barely had time to celebrate before discovering an even greater threat lurking in the shadows. Now Ayla’s long-awaited magic had finally awakened, but it was wild, unpredictable, and powerful enough to hurt the people she loved. At the same time, the mysterious bond growing between her and Zayne became impossible to ignore. Together, they set out on another dangerous quest to recover the Black Diamond shards, hoping to save Zayne’s homeland before the curse destroyed everything they cared about. But between lavish trade assemblies, hidden enemies, dangerous secrets, and a growing darkness manipulating events from behind the scenes, nothing was ever as simple as it seemed. ⚔️✨
One of my favorite things about this book was watching Ayla grow into her magic. 🌟 Seeing her discover that she wielded Starlight magic was so exciting, especially because she spent so much of the first book believing she had no magic at all. Her journey felt emotional, messy, and believable as she struggled to control powers that could either save everyone… or destroy them.
Zayne continued to be one of my favorite characters. 🖤 He was patient, fiercely protective, and so wonderfully steadfast. While Ayla wrestled with her fears and uncertainty, Zayne never stopped believing in her. Their relationship developed so naturally, and I loved watching their bond deepen with every challenge they faced together. The accidental mates storyline became even more intriguing, and I’m so curious to see where their magical connection leads next. ❤️
The world-building also became much richer in this installment. 🌍 There were new kingdoms, fascinating political intrigue, magical lore, and so many new characters that made the world feel larger and more alive. Every new revelation added another layer to the overarching story, making me even more invested in what is really happening behind the curse.
And can we talk about Ninti? 🐺🔥 I absolutely adored every scene with the firewolf. Every fantasy series deserves an unforgettable magical companion, and Ninti quickly became one of my favorite additions. I can’t wait to see more of them in the next book.
The pacing also felt much stronger this time around. 📖 Instead of spending too much time setting everything up, the story kept moving while naturally revealing more about the world, the characters, and the growing danger. Every discovery made me eager to keep turning the pages.
The ending left me with so many questions and even more excitement for what’s coming next. 💫 The stakes continued to rise, the mysteries only deepened, and I already found myself wanting to jump straight into book three.
Perfect for readers who love:
🌙 Morally gray MMC
💫 Accidental mates
❤️ Slow-burn romance
🖤 Shadow Daddy × Starlight Mama
⚔️ Epic fantasy quest
💀 Necromancy & ancient curses
👑 Court intrigue & political fantasy
✨ Magical bonds
🐺 Animal companion (Firewolf!)
🌍 Expanding fantasy worlds
🔥 Touch-her-and-I’ll-burn-the-world energy
💖 Found family
Thank you so much to Mel Braxton and Behind The Pages for the review opportunity. 💕 I’m so grateful I had the chance to continue Ayla and Zayne’s journey, and I cannot wait to see where the adventure takes them.
After defeating Inarus and helping Eleanor claim the throne, Ayla and Zayne barely had time to celebrate before discovering an even greater threat lurking in the shadows. Now Ayla’s long-awaited magic had finally awakened, but it was wild, unpredictable, and powerful enough to hurt the people she loved. At the same time, the mysterious bond growing between her and Zayne became impossible to ignore. Together, they set out on another dangerous quest to recover the Black Diamond shards, hoping to save Zayne’s homeland before the curse destroyed everything they cared about. But between lavish trade assemblies, hidden enemies, dangerous secrets, and a growing darkness manipulating events from behind the scenes, nothing was ever as simple as it seemed. ⚔️✨
One of my favorite things about this book was watching Ayla grow into her magic. 🌟 Seeing her discover that she wielded Starlight magic was so exciting, especially because she spent so much of the first book believing she had no magic at all. Her journey felt emotional, messy, and believable as she struggled to control powers that could either save everyone… or destroy them.
Zayne continued to be one of my favorite characters. 🖤 He was patient, fiercely protective, and so wonderfully steadfast. While Ayla wrestled with her fears and uncertainty, Zayne never stopped believing in her. Their relationship developed so naturally, and I loved watching their bond deepen with every challenge they faced together. The accidental mates storyline became even more intriguing, and I’m so curious to see where their magical connection leads next. ❤️
The world-building also became much richer in this installment. 🌍 There were new kingdoms, fascinating political intrigue, magical lore, and so many new characters that made the world feel larger and more alive. Every new revelation added another layer to the overarching story, making me even more invested in what is really happening behind the curse.
And can we talk about Ninti? 🐺🔥 I absolutely adored every scene with the firewolf. Every fantasy series deserves an unforgettable magical companion, and Ninti quickly became one of my favorite additions. I can’t wait to see more of them in the next book.
The pacing also felt much stronger this time around. 📖 Instead of spending too much time setting everything up, the story kept moving while naturally revealing more about the world, the characters, and the growing danger. Every discovery made me eager to keep turning the pages.
The ending left me with so many questions and even more excitement for what’s coming next. 💫 The stakes continued to rise, the mysteries only deepened, and I already found myself wanting to jump straight into book three.
Perfect for readers who love:
🌙 Morally gray MMC
💫 Accidental mates
❤️ Slow-burn romance
🖤 Shadow Daddy × Starlight Mama
⚔️ Epic fantasy quest
💀 Necromancy & ancient curses
👑 Court intrigue & political fantasy
✨ Magical bonds
🐺 Animal companion (Firewolf!)
🌍 Expanding fantasy worlds
🔥 Touch-her-and-I’ll-burn-the-world energy
💖 Found family
Thank you so much to Mel Braxton and Behind The Pages for the review opportunity. 💕 I’m so grateful I had the chance to continue Ayla and Zayne’s journey, and I cannot wait to see where the adventure takes them.
July 24, 2026
An epic second book to this series with an ending that has me waiting for the next book again!
You follow the FMC and MMC, after discovering the truth about the Gloom and black shards at the end of the last book, setting off to find the other pieces, and headed back on the ship toward the island Mer, where there just so happens to be a meetup of many of the fae and the opportunity to gain not only multiple shards, but insight into who is behind this plot with the gloom and shades. They must arrive with the cover story of being a part of the merchant princes crew and distant half fae cousin from the human realm in order to gain access, however this pulls the FMC into the center of attention, being a fae new to the realm with experience with the humans, that many want to meet her, including the starlit king who is the MMCs opposite and nemesis. Can they piece together the truth, master the FMCs new magic and find the shards before their truth comes out?
This book was just as exciting as the first but this time with much more focus on covert missions to find information, mastering of powers and of course some court politics as they interacted with all those there for the meetup. I enjoyed getting to see the bond between the FMC and MMC continue to grow in this book and see them support each other as they each went through a difficult time. I also really enjoyed getting to see some more of the interactions with the firewolf and other side characters as those friendships continued to grow and develop. Of course a couple reveals had me shocked and I can’t wait to see how the ending of the book affects the bond between the FMC and MMC in the next one! Overall my rating 4.4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC and MMC, after discovering the truth about the Gloom and black shards at the end of the last book, setting off to find the other pieces, and headed back on the ship toward the island Mer, where there just so happens to be a meetup of many of the fae and the opportunity to gain not only multiple shards, but insight into who is behind this plot with the gloom and shades. They must arrive with the cover story of being a part of the merchant princes crew and distant half fae cousin from the human realm in order to gain access, however this pulls the FMC into the center of attention, being a fae new to the realm with experience with the humans, that many want to meet her, including the starlit king who is the MMCs opposite and nemesis. Can they piece together the truth, master the FMCs new magic and find the shards before their truth comes out?
This book was just as exciting as the first but this time with much more focus on covert missions to find information, mastering of powers and of course some court politics as they interacted with all those there for the meetup. I enjoyed getting to see the bond between the FMC and MMC continue to grow in this book and see them support each other as they each went through a difficult time. I also really enjoyed getting to see some more of the interactions with the firewolf and other side characters as those friendships continued to grow and develop. Of course a couple reveals had me shocked and I can’t wait to see how the ending of the book affects the bond between the FMC and MMC in the next one! Overall my rating 4.4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
June 17, 2025
this is book two in the Bound by Thrones trilogy. This is a slow burn, steamy four book series.
𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒂𝒍𝒍. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅.
🖤 Morally Grey MMC
🖤 Accidental Mates
🖤 Animal/Diety Sidekick
🖤 Necromancy
🖤 Shadow Daddy/Starlight Mama
🖤 Epic Quest
Once again Ayla and Zayne find themselves on another epic quest, but this time its too find the black diamond shards. Ayla is no longer Magic-less as she has finally awoken her powers. However her magic is wild and untamed., but she soon discovers she has the gift of starlight. She must learn to control her powers as her future depends on it.
Alya and Zayne's bond continues to grow and change, even if they don't always completely understand it. I am curious to see how their bond plays out in book three. I also can't wait to see more of Ninti, the firewolf.
thank you Mel and Behind the Pages for the e-arc. My thoughts and review are my own.
𝑯𝒆𝒓 𝒎𝒂𝒈𝒊𝒄 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒂𝒍𝒍. 𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒔𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒍𝒅.
🖤 Morally Grey MMC
🖤 Accidental Mates
🖤 Animal/Diety Sidekick
🖤 Necromancy
🖤 Shadow Daddy/Starlight Mama
🖤 Epic Quest
Once again Ayla and Zayne find themselves on another epic quest, but this time its too find the black diamond shards. Ayla is no longer Magic-less as she has finally awoken her powers. However her magic is wild and untamed., but she soon discovers she has the gift of starlight. She must learn to control her powers as her future depends on it.
Alya and Zayne's bond continues to grow and change, even if they don't always completely understand it. I am curious to see how their bond plays out in book three. I also can't wait to see more of Ninti, the firewolf.
thank you Mel and Behind the Pages for the e-arc. My thoughts and review are my own.
June 7, 2025
She can save the world… if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart. 💔
If you love fated mates, shadow zaddies, forced proximity, and court intrigue, this one is for you! 🫶
Mel keeps me wanting more!! Secrets and Starlight is a beautiful addition to the Bound by Thrones series as we experience the exponential growth between Ayla and Zayne. As always, I love the mutual trust between the two and that Zayne trusts Ayla 100% even when all he wants to do is keep her in his shadows; we all need a man like Zayne. But the real star of the show, Ninti; our firewolf companion. 🐾 She’s in for quite the ride now.
Thank you, Mel, for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful book; already looking forward to book 3 because I need it like Ayla and Zayne need each other!!
If you love fated mates, shadow zaddies, forced proximity, and court intrigue, this one is for you! 🫶
Mel keeps me wanting more!! Secrets and Starlight is a beautiful addition to the Bound by Thrones series as we experience the exponential growth between Ayla and Zayne. As always, I love the mutual trust between the two and that Zayne trusts Ayla 100% even when all he wants to do is keep her in his shadows; we all need a man like Zayne. But the real star of the show, Ninti; our firewolf companion. 🐾 She’s in for quite the ride now.
Thank you, Mel, for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this beautiful book; already looking forward to book 3 because I need it like Ayla and Zayne need each other!!
June 22, 2025
Book two dives right in after book one ended. Zayne & Ayla successfully defeated Inarus and helped Eleanor ascend the throne, but in the process discovered a much greater threat. Now with Ayla’s unblocked power and an unplanned tether between them, they journey into more treacherous waters.
I loved the world-building in this book and the progression of Zayne and Ayla’s relationship. While Ayla was conflicted, Zayne was steadfast and patient in his feelings. They bring out the best in each other and it’s truly a joy to read. Book two introduced so many new characters and layers to the plot so I can’t wait to see where book three takes us next. Another wonderful installment to the series.
I loved the world-building in this book and the progression of Zayne and Ayla’s relationship. While Ayla was conflicted, Zayne was steadfast and patient in his feelings. They bring out the best in each other and it’s truly a joy to read. Book two introduced so many new characters and layers to the plot so I can’t wait to see where book three takes us next. Another wonderful installment to the series.
June 21, 2025
This book picks up right where the first left off, with Ayla and Zayne traveling to Mer. There’s a ton of new characters in the mix, so many secrets and trails to follow and dots to connect and I was eating it up!!! Ayla and Zayne’s relationship continues to grow deeper (and spiiicier 🥵) and I genuinely love them so much. There’s so much tenderness and protectiveness between them it just turns my heart into a puddle.
We learn so much more about the Isle of Fae and the magic system of this world throughout the book, and there are some crazy revelations and twists along the way that just add layers of intricacies and had me salivating for more.
We learn so much more about the Isle of Fae and the magic system of this world throughout the book, and there are some crazy revelations and twists along the way that just add layers of intricacies and had me salivating for more.
July 30, 2026
Secrets and starlight
By Mel Braxton
⭐⭐⭐
"The second book in the trilogy that I'm currently reading, um my thoughts it was hard to get through I feel like the first book was an easy read but this one was a bit more heavy I suppose, there was more spice as well which isn't my favourite and the story got more intense which was interesting, some things were revealed and it does make me interested to see what the 3rd and final book will be like but at the same time I'm just like reading to get it read rather then reading it because I enjoy it? So I guess it's not really my favourite reads but in saying that I'm sure many people will enjoy it."
By Mel Braxton
⭐⭐⭐
"The second book in the trilogy that I'm currently reading, um my thoughts it was hard to get through I feel like the first book was an easy read but this one was a bit more heavy I suppose, there was more spice as well which isn't my favourite and the story got more intense which was interesting, some things were revealed and it does make me interested to see what the 3rd and final book will be like but at the same time I'm just like reading to get it read rather then reading it because I enjoy it? So I guess it's not really my favourite reads but in saying that I'm sure many people will enjoy it."
June 1, 2025
really enjoyed this book!! it was a quick read and picks up right where the first one ended. This book has a little bit more spice then the first one, and I love that Zayne is patience with Ayla and is supportive of her choices. With her magic being released shes scared of them because she can't control them and she's a danger to those she loves. Watching these characters grow is nice to see and I'm eager to see what comes next!
July 15, 2026
I liked it. I liked Ayla. I also liked her powers of starlight. I loved the writing. I also liked the world building. I felt like the beginning dragged a little, but then the ending pick up. I also think that the plot was interesting. I did liked the characters. I also liked Zayne. I liked the banter and between Zayne and Ayla. I can’t wait to read the next book. I want to thank Behind the Pages for giving me book two to read in exchange for a review. Overall, a great indie read.
July 21, 2026
3.5 Stars!
An awesome follow up to the first book, Shadow and Smite. This book picked up where the last one left off. Zane and Ayla are pulled right back into conflict and secrets are revealed about Ayla’s past. Ayla has such great character development and I find myself rooting for her. Zane and Ayla are together and there was a tad too much spice in this book considering how short it is. I did enjoy it!
An awesome follow up to the first book, Shadow and Smite. This book picked up where the last one left off. Zane and Ayla are pulled right back into conflict and secrets are revealed about Ayla’s past. Ayla has such great character development and I find myself rooting for her. Zane and Ayla are together and there was a tad too much spice in this book considering how short it is. I did enjoy it!
July 21, 2026
Thank you for the gifted copy Mel Braxton and Behind the Pages, LLC!
3.5/4⭐️
This book picks up with Alya and Zanye’s journey where book 1 left off. I do think things picked up and I’m glad more was explained with their bond and it helps me understand their instant attraction. I like that we meet more characters and the world gets bigger. I’m looking forward to seeing where Zayne’s villain arc goes and for Alya to play double agent.
3.5/4⭐️
This book picks up with Alya and Zanye’s journey where book 1 left off. I do think things picked up and I’m glad more was explained with their bond and it helps me understand their instant attraction. I like that we meet more characters and the world gets bigger. I’m looking forward to seeing where Zayne’s villain arc goes and for Alya to play double agent.
Did Not Finish
March 18, 2026I’m DNFing this and it’s honestly not because it’s bad in the least. I would probably recommend this series. But I need something different and this feels the same as some other stuff I’ve read recently. But absolutely no hate on this whatsoever!
June 22, 2025
This was everything you want in a sequel. Ayla and Zayne go undercover at the Trade Assembly in Mer to try to retrieve the rest of the Black Diamond shards but Ayla’s newly awakened powers are unreliable at best and wildly dangerous at worst and Zayne is dealing with the fact that he hates his necromantic powers. Tension is at an all time high between these two and Ayla is trying to deny the bond they have because she’s a big scaredy cat and Zayne is just like extremely patient with her. There’s a big revelation about Ayla’s parentage in this which is pretty obvious from the beginning but still enjoyable regardless. We get to see and learn about more of the lesser and greater deities and I can’t wait to see what happens in the future with them. The spice in this finally kicks off and Ayla and Zayne have a hard time keeping their hands off each other. The way this ended had me so shocked and I absolutely need book three as soon as possible because I need to know how this story ends.
June 16, 2026
I received an eARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
A stunning sequel to which I cannot wait for the next book!
This was such a satisfying book 2, I really felt the characters growth. I can't say the revelations or twists actually surprised me, but they were good regardless. I will absolutely continue the series.
A stunning sequel to which I cannot wait for the next book!
This was such a satisfying book 2, I really felt the characters growth. I can't say the revelations or twists actually surprised me, but they were good regardless. I will absolutely continue the series.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews