When Kateya awakens with no memories, in an unfamiliar land, she knows two things for she’s in danger, and she’s traveled back in time . . . again. Only this time, icy darkness lurks in the sky, revealing how different things truly are.
All magic demands balance.
Kateya’s memories begin to surface, haunting her with a past—tainted by dark magic—carved into her skin. As raging embers of magic begin to burn within her, the King of Avyon realizes she’s not only incredibly powerful, but a danger to everyone . . . including herself.
Alliances become weapons of war.
Past and present collide and bonds are forged through passion and hatred, forcing Kateya to question everything she believed she knew about those she loved. She must learn to harness the power rising within her, while determining who she can truly trust.
A fate written in the stars.
Harrowing truths are revealed that hold the power to not only alter the destiny of those prophesied, but change the future of the Vanaiyer Realm. As Kateya fights for freedom, she realizes not all knowledge is power and magic can’t always change the inevitable—including the tides of war.
The darkness is creeping closer . . . will they be able to hold it off?
T.A. Reilly is an author of NA fantasy romance with equal levels adventure, time travel, and romance mixed in.
Reading came naturally to her at a young age, and the words began flowing shortly after that. She has traveled all over the world from a young age and is constantly counting down the days until her next trip! After graduating with a master’s in Professional Communications, she decided to pursue her lifelong dream … bringing time-travel to life on paper.
Currently, she and her husband call Florida home. In her free time, she loves rewatching Friends, going to the beach, and staying up too late lost in a good book.
ARC read 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Spice level 1.5 🌶️🌶️ High Fantasy Romance
Thank you so much T.A Reilly for allowing me to be an arc reader for WTE 🖤⚔️ I was blown away by the first book in the series and was not disappointed being thrust into the second. I loved how this book was based on Kateyas POV and learning her journey getting back to Vanaiyer. I’m a spicy lover and definitely wish there was a bit more but the plot and twists & turns were enough to keep me intrigued that the spice level didn’t matter as much. I’m OBSESSED with Kodrayn he is the PERFECT alpha male. The right amount of possession and obsession to his bonded, Kateya. I knew Aerilyn would end up finding the 3rd artifact and end up in Vanaiyer buttttt that ending and Drathian stealing her away had me in near tears. I can not WAIT for the 3rd book and curious to see who Aerilyn ends up with, although I have a good guess. 100% recommend this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
“We are all made up of scars, little venom. They tell the story of who we are, who we have been forced to become. But never once do they diminish any part of you. They only strengthen you, making you who you are, weaving a beautiful story across your skin.”
First of all, can we talk about the dedication for a minute? I mean—
To all the girls with fire in their eyes and a touch of venom on their lips.
I FEEL SO SEEN.
Okay, if you’re into time travel, only one bed (with a twist!), bonded mates (“I’ll always find you”), touch her and die (“Who did this to you?”), found family, magic and magic training, shifters, and a bit of sibling banter—this may be the book and series for you.
Within the Embers, the second book in T.A. Reilly’s Scattered Destinies series, definitely raises the stakes in a thrilling sequel that shines a spotlight on Kat (Kateya), who was more of a quiet, cloistered figure in book 1, Beneath the Shatter (think Elaine from ACOTAR). Now, she finds herself at the heart of a dangerous and complex narrative where magic, time travel, and brutal truths challenge her at every turn.
Indeed, Kat’s character growth is one of the highlights of the story. In the first book, she was gentle, sheltered, and somewhat passive. But in Within the Embers, Kat evolves into someone more like a hybrid of Feyre and Nesta (again, from ACOTAR), hardened by trauma and battle. From to having to fight for her survival, she is forced to grow up quickly, and this rapid character development is both compelling and heartbreaking. Her internal struggle with the powerful magic she possesses—and the dark past it is tied to—gives even more depth to her journey, making her far more dynamic than she was in the first installment.
Reilly’s world-building is also a strong point, with the dystopian “present” offering a fascinating contrast to the magical past our main characters travel to. The world expands in this sequel, and the plot tightens in a way that feels more focused and deliberate compared to Beneath the Shatter. There are some nice twists and turns, and although there are a few small plot holes/unexplained occurrences/things that don’t make sense (such as the very convenient coincidence of not one, not two, but all three artifacts having ended up in the exact same time period in the future…), the overarching narrative continues to grow in complexity and intrigue. The series’ broader mysteries surrounding time travel and dark forces are only becoming more intense, especially with that cliffhanger ending, which sets up book 3, ’s story, in a tantalizing way.
However, while the book nails the intensity of the plot and elements of character growth, there are moments that fall a little flat. The romance between Kat and Kode (Kodrayn) starts off as a super hot flirtation/slow-burn, and I was totally hooked on their chemistry at first. But when Kat finally “gives in,” it felt too sudden for her character. (MAYBE SPOILER?) Given , her rapid shift in trust toward, or just like, going “all in” on a relationship with, Kode (or just any male, to be honest) felt like it went against everything she is now (that is, a strong, fierce character who thinks through her actions first, protects herself, etc.). The romantic moments, while definitely cute as hell, also became a bit repetitive by the end, which dulled some of their impact. That being said, Kode is a perfectly possessive/protective yet respectful love interest, and I think many readers will adore their bond!
Overall, Within the Embers is a great continuation of the Scattered Destinies series, and I liked it even more than Beneath the Shatter. Its mix of magic, high stakes, romance, and time travel, combined with a badass, relatable female main character; a swoonworthy male main character; and a cliffhanger that leaves you craving the next book, will appeal to fans of fantasy series like ACOTAR, TOG, and The Empyrean. While not perfect, it offers a captivating ride through an expanding, dangerous world, and I can’t wait to see where Reilly takes the story next.
Content warnings include violence, bloodshed, on-page death, profanity, capture, mentions of abuse, instances of physical harm, murder, and explicit scenes.
I really feel like this steps up the intensity from the first book, expanding the story's world and giving readers a new, fascinating protagonist in Kateya. This sequel feels more focused and thrilling, offering deeper character development, while still being connected to the overarching plot. I find the more present-day time period in the beginning fascinating.
This is Kateya's story, which was fun because we got to meet her as a side character in the last book. Her return to a world worse off than before caught my interest given that in the previous book we spent fairly limited time there. That time spent with her meant that she was all the more compelling. Her relationship with Kode, while intense, offers some more emotional grounding that balances things between them. Their dynamic worked well, despite my continued issues with alpha-male-type characters. There is an explanation for the bond-related consent issues, which, while not perfect, felt like a step in the right direction. I also enjoyed the slow burn between them.
I also really liked the way the story kept Cass and Sebastien in the background. Their presence is still felt, but the focus remains on Kateya and her struggles. It’s interesting how Reilly allows the plot to continue developing while keeping the characters somewhat isolated from one another—this strategy gives each character’s story more room to breathe, while the connections between the blood-bound leaders promise that they’ll intertwine more deeply as the series progresses.
I’m eager to see where the story goes next!
Thanks so much to BOMM and the amazing author for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary. All opinions are my own.
This is one of those series where the first book is good but the second one is amazing! I was hooked from the very beginning and read the entire thing in one sitting. I stayed up until 3 am because I literally couldn’t put it down!
Kateya is my absolute favorite. I loved how strong she was and willing to do anything to not only get back to her sister but also for those in need. Plus her snarky attitude was hilarious! I was a lot more invested in the romance in this book. There is a bit of a love triangle, which I don’t normally like but it was done so well! I’m honestly a little sad that I won’t get anymore from their pov since it’ll switch to another set of characters in book 3.
It was so cool getting to see more of Vanaiyer, especially Nordak. We got a few answers to the overarching plot but even more questions. And after that cliffhanger I need to know what happens!😫
Thank you to the author for sending me a copy to review.
I was very excited to get Kateya’s story, especially after book 1. This book was so much more than I thought it would be. I have to say, I believe I loved it even more than book 1! Kateya is ridiculously strong and so resilient. This girl goes through the wringer trying to get back to her sister, Cass. But everything she goes through just makes her story that much sweeter. The cast of characters in these books really make the difference. Tara really develops these characters so well, and pulls these emotions from them that just make them come to life. Kode was everything!! I mean this man…I mean vampyr was absolutely amazing!
“We are all made up of scars, little venom. They tell the story of who we are, who we have been forced to become. But never once do they diminish any part of you. They only strengthen you, making you who you are, weaving a beautiful story across your skin.”
The way he loves Kateya so purely was absolutely breathtaking! His devotion to her was beautiful. And of course, he’s willing to burn the world to ash for her! This series is shaping up to be extremely epic and high adventure with lots of twists and turns you don’t see coming! I definitely recommend giving this series a try!
Romantasy with fated mates, unexpected twists, and witty banter!
I finished this one in a single day! I absolutely loved Kat's story. Book 2 in the Scattered Destinies series is told from Kat's perspective, a year after she was sent back to her present time. In that year, Kat has had to grow up fast—she's no longer the naive girl who could sit by while others suffered under the King's tyranny. Now, as she fights against him, she's desperately searching for a way to return to the past, to Cass and Eryx. Bold, fierce, and independent, Kat doesn't need anyone to save her—she's taking matters into her own hands. With unexpected twists, witty banter, a strong FMC and MMC, and a fated-mate romance, this book kept me completely captivated the whole way through.
Hello! It is awesome to be back in Vanaiyer! But this time we are in book two with Cass’ sister, Kateya, as she tries to uncover the rest of the long lost prophecy hidden by the evil Nordak and go back in time to find her sister again.
When Kat finds herself betrayed alongside a series of events, she plummets back into the time where she had left Cass, but two years later and straight into the middle of a war and the angry arms of the Avyon Vampry King. As she lingers between warrior and captive, she must earn the king’s trust, train her powers, and figure out who she can actually trust.
I loved this story so much. It was a great time with a feisty FMC and a fierce MMC and some hidden identities. We get to experience more world, magic, and shifter development as well as a delicious romance.
Tropes you may find in WTE are bonded mates, biting, medium spice, elemental magic, nicknames, plot twists, forced proximity, he falls first, chosen one, found family, one dream, and a stand-alone with an overarching plot.
Thank you so much for this gifted arc, Reilly. The books just keep getting better!
Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this amazing ARC.
I’ll be honest here, this was written and flowed so much better than the first book. If you can get through that this is 100 percent well worth the read!
I was shocked and extremely delighted to be reading from Kateya’s point of view this time! I feel I connected more with her character and she was a bit more relatable.
The betrayals took me by surprise and where extremely heartbreaking 💔
The devotion and love that forms between the two main characters Kateya and Kodrayn was just beautiful (who can’t love an overprotective and obsessive man) and come on I was sooo digging the “little venom” comments through the book!
✨ time travel ✨ magic ✨ vamprys ✨ shifters ✨ bonded mates ✨ and so much more!
And that ending! Well now I’m extremely keen to see what happens next!
I did not want this book to end!! 🙌 🫣😫 There were some points where I thought I knew what would happen based on the last book, BUT NO! The author really took me by surprise with the way this story went! And I loved it! 😍 I love that the FMCs in the series are all badass in their own individual way and their sister/friend bond is unbreakable! Kateya so deserved her own story and it was written perfectly!! I can’t wait to read more on Aerilyn in her story!! 😍
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I really just had my heart ripped out of my chest with this one huh? 😭
Within the Embers is so full. Full of lore drops, of romance, of heartbreak, of prophecy, of BETRAYAL. I'm speechless.
Kateya, I truly thought she was the sweet, younger sister from reading Beneath the Shatter. And holy shit did she come into her own in Within The Embers. She's not just 'strong', she's RESILIENT. Idk what else to say besides her journey is completely devastating and beautiful.
Kodrayn is everything to me. His character is exactly what I was hoping for from the feared General of Avyon. That man has quite the sparring tongue, I couldn't get enough of his teasing personality!
"Seems I picked just the right night to watch you come alive. You look so vicious with venom in your eyes."
Let me just say, the plot was PLOTTING here folks. I clutched my pearls many times with the gasps I gusped. The twists, the surprises, the swooning, the romance. I have ZERO complaints and I cannot wait to see what happens in book 3! Idk how I'm supposed to wait now! 🤣
🔥 Within the Embers by T.A. Reilly: A Fiery Fantasy Romance You Can’t Miss! 🔥
If you’re craving a spellbinding journey filled with magic, danger, and a sizzling slow-burn romance, Within the Embers is the page-turner you need to dive into next! 🌟 This highly anticipated sequel in the Scattered Destinies series will sweep you back to the fascinating world of Verastarr, where the stakes are higher, the characters even more compelling, and the twists will leave you breathless.
We're celebrating the release of Within the Embers (expected September 21, 2024), and you don’t want to miss out on this thrilling fantasy adventure! T.A. Reilly has done it again, delivering a sequel that perfectly blends romance, intrigue, and edge-of-your-seat magic battles. If Scattered Destinies hooked you, this second book will completely captivate you.
✨ A Glimpse Into the Story:
In Within the Embers, we follow the fierce and formidable Kateya as she finds herself in the midst of the Vampir, waking with no memory and an impending sense of danger. Time travel, dark magic, and powerful alliances set the tone for this riveting sequel.
As Kateya’s memories resurface, she must confront a past riddled with dark secrets while learning to control her newfound powers. Will she be able to trust those around her, or is betrayal lurking in the shadows? Alliances become fragile, and love may be her only weapon in the face of growing threats.
With one bed, found family, enemies-to-lovers tension, and the swoon-worthy "Who did this to you?" trope, Within the Embers is packed with everything you love about fantasy romance!
💥 Why You’ll Be Obsessed with Within the Embers (and Kateya’s story!):
🔥 Return to Verastarr’s Magical World: Reilly’s immersive world-building will transport you straight back to the breathtaking yet dangerous realm of magic and Vampir. 🐺 Fierce FMC, Kateya: She's bold, powerful, and the embodiment of “don’t mess with me” energy. Watching her navigate the dangers of her newfound world is gripping. 💥 Tense, Will-They-Won’t-They Chosen Mates: The chemistry between Kateya and her love interest will have you fanning yourself and begging for more! ⚔️ Epic Fantasy Battles & Twists: Magic clashes, political intrigue, and shocking secrets make this an unputdownable adventure! 📜 Mind-Bending Time Travel & Dark Magic: The complex magic system and time travel elements add layers of intrigue that’ll have you constantly questioning, “What happens next?” 🌟 Synopsis:
Within the Embers follows Kateya, who wakes with no memories in an unfamiliar land. As she unravels the truth behind her past and the dangerous embers of magic growing inside her, she realizes she’s traveled back in time yet again. But this time, the stakes are even higher. She must learn to control her power, forge alliances with unlikely allies, and discover who she can trust—all while darkness looms closer, threatening to consume her and the realm she fights to protect.
Harrowing truths are revealed that could change the destiny of everyone in the Vanaiyer Realm. Will Kateya and her allies be able to hold back the darkness, or will everything they know crumble?
Available on Amazon – get ready to return to the magic, the passion, and the intrigue of Verastarr with Within the Embers!
Don’t Forget to Follow the Author: Instagram: @tareillybooks TikTok: @tareillybooks
There are series that just keep getting better as the series continues and this is one of them! TA wastes no time in reminding readers why we love the world she has created. The focus of this book is Kateya and the high fantasy hits hard. There is romance, but high fantasy is definitely the focus in this story. As an avid romance reader, it was enough to keep my attention, but I was not at all disappointed in the story line and loved this book.
Kateya was woken up, having time traveled, but has no memories. No matter what is thrown at her she keeps getting up and coming back stronger. Resilient is definitely a word that I think of in describing her. Strong, brave, and intriguing are others. She never gives up. And as her memories begin to come back to her, the twists within this storyline, just keep coming!
Her relationship with Kode is the slight romance within the story. There are definite feelings there, but it never took center stage. Their mission stayed on point and the banter between these two never let up! I loved reading the two of the interacting. Honestly, all the characters in this sequel are well written, developed, and add so much to the storyline.
TA writes with such passion, it is impossible to not fall in love with the world she is writing and the characters that inhabit this world. As we go on this spell binding journey with Kateya and others, you are captured by the storyline. It makes you remember why high fantasy is a beloved genre to read and why you started reading it in the first place. I mean, yes, I want to see more between our fated mates, and I believe we will get there, but the story is strong enough with the sizzling tension…for now!
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes: 👑Enemies to Lovers 💙Sassy Banter 👑Bonded Mates 💙Time Travel 👑Found Family 💙Badass warriors FMCs 👑Insane magic systems 💙Shape Shifters
Within the Embers picked up where Beneath the Shatter left off. Kateya is back in the present while her sister is still in the past. She was transported back to a life that no longer welcomed her where death and dark magic lurked in the shadows and trust was nonexistent.
Kat is on a mission to find the second artifact tied to an ancient prophecy to time travel back to her sister, and nothing will stand in her way. She’s been dealt a raw hand with hurt, betrayal and being forced against her will by men time and time again.
My heart broke for her but my girl kept coming back fiercer, stronger, wiser and full of fire each time someone tried to knock her down. I enjoyed Kat’s inner thoughts because she’s sassy, full of wit and dripping with venom. Kat is one of my favorite warrior fmc!
By destiny, Kat found her way back in time and tumbled into vampry territory. Enter Kodrayn — Vampyr King, icy, part of the brotherhood from book one, ruthless and has a scar with a story. I’ve realized a man with a scar has become a favorite micro trope of mine, thanks Kode. 😏
I was absolutely gutted by one betrayal in this book. I started being a little suspicious of this character but still wasn’t prepared for it to become a reality.
There is no shortage of expansion world building, intense training, tension, action and banter. WTE had me on the edge of my seat until the very end and then bam! There were no more chapter pages to flip and left with a cliffhanger! I already can’t wait for the emotional ride coming in book three.
Thank you so much to T.A. Reilly for the gifted ARC and for sending me back to Vanaiyer!
Within The Embers is the second book in the Scattered Destinies series. While the first book featured Cassandra, this one focuses on her sister, Kateya. Please read them in order.
Kateya travelled back to the present determined to locate the second artifact and somehow find her way back to her sister. Her return home was far from joyful however she was able to reconnect with her best friend, Aerilyn, and her boyfriend, Nik. When not searching for the artifact, Kateya and Aerilyn spent their time patrolling and trying to protect the people of their community.
The day they get access to the Capital Archives and read some prophetic writings, is the day life changes once more for Kateya. She heads to Hydrillas, their usually hangout, and while looking for Nik, catches him cheating on her. She quickly drops him like a hot potato and heads to the washroom to calm herself. When she exits the stall, she comes into contact with a woman who was complaining about her dangle earrings and plopped them down on the counter. Before she knows it, the club is under attack and without thinking, Kateya pockets the earrings.
When she returns to the apartment she shares with Aerilyn, she is shocked to find Nik waiting for her. There is an altercation (major understatement) and Kateya finds herself back in the past.
Kateya is determined to find her sister but has many battles ahead, including convincing the General of Avyon, Kodrayn Deverell, that she isn't the enemy. She also has a lot to learn about the state of the Vanaiyer realm, about the Nordak and the prophecy, and of course about herself.
This was a fantastic read. Like Beneath The Shatter, this story includes an enemies-to-lovers, slow burn romance. The chemistry between Kateya and Kodrayn is intense, and I loved every minute of it. Kodrayn is fierce and steadfast. He is not a male you want to cross as he can be vicious and deadly. Kateya gives as good as she gets. While he may frighten her, she is more than ready get in his face. When it is important to her, she won't back down. She has incredible fortitude and resilience.I love that he calls her "little venom" and is ready to burn the world for her.
Within The Embers felt like an epic adventure, with lots of twists and turns, and a healthy dose of spice. I had my suspicions about the third artifact and the author confirmed them with a brilliant cliffhanger ending. I eagerly await the next release!
Within the Embers is an enthralling continuation of the Vanaiyer series, picking up where Beneath the Shatter left off. The story is packed with everything fans of fantasy crave—vampires (Vamprys), magic, time travel, artifacts, shifters, and, of course, bonded mates. The emotional journey of Kateya, the fierce and determined protagonist, takes center stage as she faces dark magic, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of a prophecy.
Kat’s mission to rescue her sister by traveling through time sets the stage for intense action and heart-pounding moments. Despite being faced with numerous trials, including betrayal from those closest to her, Kat remains a fiery and sassy character whose wit and inner thoughts make her one of the most relatable warrior heroines in fantasy fiction. The introduction of Kodrayn, the icy Vampyr King with a scar and a ruthless reputation, adds depth and tension to the story, especially for those who love a brooding antihero with hidden layers.
The world-building continues to impress, expanding on the lore of Vanaiyer with action-packed training, tension-filled scenes, and banter that keeps the reader engaged. The cliffhanger ending will leave readers yearning for the next book, as it hits right when you’re desperate to turn another page!
T.A. Reilly delivers another gripping installment, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the third book to see where this emotionally charged adventure will lead.
Highly recommended for fans of epic fantasy with strong female leads, dark magic, and thrilling romantic tension.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
“You’re the only thing in the entire realm that matters to me.”
TA Reilly’s Scattered Destinies series is slowly becoming one of my absolute favorite romantasy series. Within the Embers might be my favorite book so far because of its incredible characters, interesting plot, and jaw-dropping betrayals. If you’re a romantasy reader, this is definitely one to check out! *note: This is Book 2 in the series! Although it focuses on different characters, it’s best to read Beneath the Shatter for better understanding of the plot!
Kat is my absolute favorite! I have been waiting for her book ever since she was introduced in the first one. She is resilient, determined, and willing to do just about anything to make it back to her sister and help her find the rest of the magical artifacts needed to stop the war. Throughout the book, we get a glimpse of her journey back to the past and meet interesting characters along the way, including Kode and Eryx (who was her love interest in the first book). I absolutely love Kode with my entire being! He’s the perfect Alpha-male, broody character. (I won’t spoil too much about him so you have to read to find out more).
TA Reilly did an absolutely fantastic job with this story! I was truly blown away by the world building and character development. I highly recommend this book!
After being sent back to her own timeline by her sister after time-traveling, a chance encounter gives Kat the power to transport herself back in time again. Only this time, she finds herself captured by the vampyr king's men and at the mercy of King Kodrayn himself. Trying to prove her innocence lands her in the fighting ring, but when she starts wielding fire magic, Kode knows she's who she claims to be. Reuniting with her sister is bittersweet as war is ravaging their countries. Reuniting with the man she left behind becomes confusing as Kateya shares a kiss with Kodrayn. Amidst a battle, Kat is taken by the enemy, forced to fight for survival while they try to make her into their weapon. Only Kodrayn has the power to save her, but at the cost of a different type of freedom.
Such a torturous slow burn with some spicy telepathetic payout! I was loving the banter between Kat and Kode, and when he calls her "little venom," swoon. Their enemies to lovers, forced proximity, bonded connection gave them an advantage over the enemy, but thir fiery back and forth gave them a connection that could not be severed. This series is quickly becoming a favorite, and with that twisty ending, I can't wait to read more from this world!
At the end of Beneath the Shatter I needed to know what happened to the younger sister, Kat….well now we get her story & what a story….spoiler alert she made it back to present day & soon after she does my jaw dropped….we get a lot of info quick & I wasn’t prepared for any of it
Fortunately for me the next few chapters started to go the way I wanted them to….a lot comes to light….lets just say when it comes to men, past or present, Kateya has a horrible picker….I really wonder if Nik & Eryx are related
Overall I really liked this book….honestly I think I like this one more than the first….Im not a little sister but definitely feel like I related more to Kateya….I definitely see a lot of me (with her choices) in her…I also love her sass & her take charge attitude….I also loved the hints we got along the way….you have to be paying attention or you may miss them
About half way through I had a ton of questions….mainly about the roommate from the present, Aerilyn….Im pretty sure all of my questions will be answered in book 3….Im ready
If you love a fantasy romance with a lot of plot give this series a read….its more of a slow burn but the build up is everything it needs to be
Wow, I was excited for this book after reading BTS because it was such a unique story and I was desperate to know what happened with Kateya! And this book did not disappoint! It picks up right where BTS ends except in Kateyas POV. And I was honestly shocked within the first couple chapters because of what she has to endure. 😣 She is so strong and resilient and just a badass FMC. I honestly think I enjoyed this one more than the first one! You learn so much more about the prophecy and artifacts, and the plot was TWISTING, and that ENDING. Literally made me wanna scream and throw my kindle😭 I need the next book like tomorrow. Not to mention I LOVED Kodrayn. He was the most perfect, protective, possessive King of a man that Kateya deserves and I loved how he kept showing up for her and just being there for her. I’m excited to see where the next book goes and how the story plays out! If you like - ✨Vampry/shifters ✨Badass FMC/Touch her and 💀MMC ✨Time travel ✨Banter/Slow burn 🔥 ✨Who did this to you? Then read this book!
This book was nonstop right from page one! There was so much action and adventure and never a dull moment. This story was gripping and constantly had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the new characters we meet in this book and the growth our FMC, Kateya, showed between book 1 and this one.
We start off seeing Kateya kicking butt and taking names, and dare I say, she might be my favorite sister now! Without spoiling anything from book 1, her circumstances she faced at the end of the first book truly hardened her into a fierce fighter. Her determination is unmatched as she tries to find a way back to her sister. Nothing will stand in her way, and trust me, she’ll give you a word or two if you do. And we also have a swoon worthy love interest who will remain a secret for now!
I love how this series is progressing. Each book is focusing on a different couple within the larger plot, and it feels like one big puzzle being put together. I’m excited to see how this story continues moving forward!
god this series is just TOO GOOD. I got so caught up in the book that when the final cliffhanger happened (I won’t spoil it for you obviously) I was like ‘oh I must be towards the end’ looked down at my kindle and I was at 99% what!!!! I went throughhhh this book and had no idea. It’s truly so captivating and I feel like I’m in the story from page one.
Kateya is one of my favorite FMCs. She’s strong willed and such a warrior. I loved her story. And Kodrayn….ugh. UGH. I love him. He’s definitely my favorite out of these 2 books so far. He has the quiet presence to him, he did not have to say anything for you to know he will kill for Kateya and when he does…. HES SO HOT.
This story is intriguing. I’m kept on the edge of my seat and I literally cannot get it out of my head, I was counting down the days for this book when I finished the first and now I will be doing the same for the third. It’s very thought out and intricate. I genuinely have no idea what will happen next.
I’m so unbelievably happy I got to arc read for this book, and cannot wait to continue the journey🫶🏼
Poor, poor Kat. Man, I thought her sister went through a lot but wow I think Kat gets it worse. Love her tenacity and resilience tho! I’m so glad we got more of Kodryn too. I loved him in Book 1 and loved him even more in this Book! I love unravelling more of the story and can’t wait to get to Book 3.
Kat is desperately trying to get back to her sister since she returned to the future. Her and her best friend have been working non-stop for the past year to find a way, all while attacks by seefers are increasing. When she finally makes it back to the past, she must now work with the Kodryn to decipher more of the prophecy.
Loving the concept of this series and I have loved all the characters! That ending tho man….Why would you do that to us! Cannot wait to see what T.A. Reilly has in store for us next!
Ohh wow! Thank you so much T.A. and BOMM for my review copy!! This one was even better than the first book Beneath the Shatter. Within the Embers is Book 2 in the Scattered Destinies series.
Within the Embers follows Kateya PoV and I really enjoyed getting to know her character! I'm so here for strong and fiesty FMCs!! She felt so relatable and I couldn't put this one down!
There's some fantastic twists and turns! And that love triangle! Absolutely loved it!! The romance was fabulous and I always love a good found family!! I stayed up way past my before reading!!
Check this out if you love: -one bed with a twist -found family -time travel -who did this to you? -magic training -sibling banter -bonded mates
Steam/Heat Level ● 2-3 🌶 ● A few explicit, open door scenes Tropes: ● One Bed w/ a Twist ● Found Family ● Who Did This To You ● Time Travel ● Magic Training ● Sibling Banter ● Bonded Mates
This is book two of the Scattered Destinies series and features Cass’s sister Kateya. She’s trying to go back in time to find Cass and ends up in a strange land with no memory of how she got there. She is looking for mysterious artifacts that they need to stop the war. I love getting this one from Kateya’s point of view. She is a resilient, feisty FMC and one of my favorites. The world building and character development were excellent. The twists and turns kept me engaged from beginning to end. The cliffhanger at the end was unexpected and I need book 3 ASAP. Highly recommend this one.
Book 2 has us meeting back up with Kat, who was sent back to the present at the end of book 1. I was not expecting the POV swap, but it was a nice restart because she was often off doing something else in book 1, and we really didn't know what was happening with her.
A fairly sizeable time jump has occurred, and she is working with others to deal with the dangers in her present time. After a pretty traumatic experience, she is thrown back into the past once again. She tries to get back to her sister and the life she thought she might have there, but things are in a precarious place and people she thought she knew, aren't really who she thought they were. Along the way, she meets the vampry prince, and things take a turn she was not expecting.
I enjoyed meeting new characters and getting Kat's perspective! There is going to be a character you eventually hate so so much!
I enjoyed the pacing of the 2nd book, and it kept me engaged.
Thanks to the author for an eARC of this book for an honest review.
Within the Embers by T.A. Reilly is a gripping and emotional continuation of the Scattered Destinies series. The story deepens the world’s lore, exploring destiny, sacrifice, and the strength found in connection. The writing is vivid and immersive, bringing the fantasy setting and its dangers to life. The characters are layered and compelling, each facing personal struggles that add depth to the plot. The romance is subtle but powerful, woven naturally into the adventure. With its mix of action, magic, and heartfelt moments, this installment delivers tension, growth, and beautifully crafted storytelling. Perfect for fans of fantasy with rich characters and emotional stakes.
Ummm excuse me! That ending. Like I knew part of what needed to happen but did not realize how little of the book was left and that cliffhanger.
I was really hoping I was wrong about one character and it made my heart break for the FMC when i was correct in my suspicions but it’s ok she was on the way to moving on anyway 😅
I love how each book had taken place with the voice of each sister and if I had to wager a guess the next will be in the voice from the sister from another mister or dual pov as they work together now.
This. Book. Holy cow, was I hooked. Kateya ends up back in the past, more determined than ever to reconnect with her sister. It's too bad the legion of Avyon soldiers she's with aren't in much of a hurry to help her prove her identity.
There is SO much that happens in this book, I could barely handle putting it down to deal with my real life responsibilities. I absolutely love how strong willed Kateya is and Kodrayn? 🫠 I swear broody MMCs are my weakness haha. I cannot wait to see what happens in book 3 though!
The second book in T.A. Reilly’s Scattered Destinies series follows the story of Kateya as she searches for the rest of the artifacts.
This book had me on the edge of my seat, holding my breath, gasping out loud and wanting to throw something at times. I loved all of it. The world-building, magic systems, relationships, the story… I devoured this book in less than 24 hrs, I could not put it down.
I am enjoying this series so much and cannot wait for book 3, thanks for sharing your gift with the world T.A. Reilly.
I enjoyed this. Kat's story was a show of resilience and strength. She is a strong character that didn't get much recognition in book 1. I think having to stand on her own without Cass was that turning point. To watch her character grow and develop. The love story between Kat and Kode was 🔥 as well. Definitely felt the attraction and heat there from the start. Enjoyed the character development and the story progression looking forward to book 3.