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The Aelfyn Archives #3
The Shadows of Stars
Description coming soon
510 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2025
1043 people are currently reading
6673 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Amstutz
8 books395 followersSamantha Amstutz is the author of the Aelfyn Archives based in South Carolina with roots in Indiana. She is inspired by Wheel of Time, World of Warcraft, The Elder Scrolls Online, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Stargate, Star Trek, and the entire romantasy genre. In her novels, you can expect (multiple) immersive magic systems, different races, plot and intrigue, slow-burn romance, diversity and inclusion, and believable characters with flaws.
She is honored and beyond thrilled you're reading her work and she hopes something in her created world resonates with yours.
She is honored and beyond thrilled you're reading her work and she hopes something in her created world resonates with yours.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
April 27, 2025
What happens to the love of my life Fenn????? Talk about a cliffhanger. Please hurry and release book 3!
April 25, 2025
This series should be marketed as why choose from the first book onward so people do not waste their time.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2025
First two books so good, this one lost me the second it turned into a ‘why choose’
April 11, 2025
So, with the second book leaving us on a major cliff hanger and a lot of character development and relationships and dynamics needing to be sorted out I was really looking forward to this book kind of answering those things. I felt like this book had minimal conversations, nothing was really answered. I feel like we went from one cliffhanger into a lot of fluff then to another cliff hanger. The characters didn’t really address any of the issue or even developed anything further. Really upset truthfully. I feel like this book could have had a lot less descriptions and more substance.
April 7, 2025
How do I even begin this review? How does one put into words the love I have for this series, the emotions it provokes, and the need I have to shout from the rooftops about its utter perfection?
Ever since I got my hands on The Aspect of Essence, Book 1 in Samantha's Aelfyn Archives series, I knew my reading experience would never be the same. Samantha has created a dark epic fantasy story that won't ever leave your mind. Its intricacy, beautifully crafted lore, and masterfully written characters will forever live in your heart and soul.
I wasn't sure how to keep on with my life after the ending of The Chains of Fate, Book 2 of the series. It crushed me, and I didn't know how I would live my life until I had Book 3 in my hands. And then Samantha showed, like an ephemeral apparition, and made my life whole again by asking me to beta-read this third instalment, The Shadows of Stars. I am humbled and honoured to have had this opportunity and to have had Samantha soothe my aching heart sooner than expected.
The Shadows of Stars was a rollercoaster of action and emotions.
This instalment had more action and more secrets uncovering. There was so much going on, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Who needs sleep or food anyway? The main focus wasn't on romantic relationships, which doesn't mean we didn't get many heart-wrenching scenes and those steaming with passion (I'm looking at you, Fenn!), but that is expected, given they didn't have time to breathe, let alone ponder over feelings over a more extended time.
I loved how we jumped from one POV to another, seeing everything from different perspectives. Do I need to mention it would often happen after the most gut-wrenching chapter ending? I see what you were doing there, Samantha, and I applaud you for that!
Now, if I had to choose my favourite aspect of the book (pun intended), it would be my baby Jassyn and his character growth. He has captured my heart and soul from day one, and I would spend my days fighting for him to find his inner peace, but also his inner strength. And that's precisely what he did in The Shadows of Stars. He simply exploded. You need to read and witness to understand just how proud I am of him.
Is it possible to talk about Jassyn without Lykor? Hm... Lykor's quips were the comedic relief we needed amidst dire circumstances. But he is more than his wit; he is a person, broken and deeply wounded, and it felt like he was finally trying to forgive himself and realize he is worthy and more than a weapon to be used.
Vesryn was good in this book; he felt remorse and the need to change something about himself. Serenna had her moments but truly shined as we approached the ending. Fenn was his gorgeous self because that is him—pure love, strength, and devotion.
The ending set the perfect stage for the epic finale, and oh, what a finale it will be, I can feel it in my bones!
Ever since I got my hands on The Aspect of Essence, Book 1 in Samantha's Aelfyn Archives series, I knew my reading experience would never be the same. Samantha has created a dark epic fantasy story that won't ever leave your mind. Its intricacy, beautifully crafted lore, and masterfully written characters will forever live in your heart and soul.
I wasn't sure how to keep on with my life after the ending of The Chains of Fate, Book 2 of the series. It crushed me, and I didn't know how I would live my life until I had Book 3 in my hands. And then Samantha showed, like an ephemeral apparition, and made my life whole again by asking me to beta-read this third instalment, The Shadows of Stars. I am humbled and honoured to have had this opportunity and to have had Samantha soothe my aching heart sooner than expected.
The Shadows of Stars was a rollercoaster of action and emotions.
This instalment had more action and more secrets uncovering. There was so much going on, and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Who needs sleep or food anyway? The main focus wasn't on romantic relationships, which doesn't mean we didn't get many heart-wrenching scenes and those steaming with passion (I'm looking at you, Fenn!), but that is expected, given they didn't have time to breathe, let alone ponder over feelings over a more extended time.
I loved how we jumped from one POV to another, seeing everything from different perspectives. Do I need to mention it would often happen after the most gut-wrenching chapter ending? I see what you were doing there, Samantha, and I applaud you for that!
Now, if I had to choose my favourite aspect of the book (pun intended), it would be my baby Jassyn and his character growth. He has captured my heart and soul from day one, and I would spend my days fighting for him to find his inner peace, but also his inner strength. And that's precisely what he did in The Shadows of Stars. He simply exploded. You need to read and witness to understand just how proud I am of him.
Is it possible to talk about Jassyn without Lykor? Hm... Lykor's quips were the comedic relief we needed amidst dire circumstances. But he is more than his wit; he is a person, broken and deeply wounded, and it felt like he was finally trying to forgive himself and realize he is worthy and more than a weapon to be used.
Vesryn was good in this book; he felt remorse and the need to change something about himself. Serenna had her moments but truly shined as we approached the ending. Fenn was his gorgeous self because that is him—pure love, strength, and devotion.
The ending set the perfect stage for the epic finale, and oh, what a finale it will be, I can feel it in my bones!
April 6, 2025
STFU!!!
I was BLESSED to receive the ARC of this book after living with that hell of a cliff hanger from CoF. There isn’t a chill moment in this book! It was constant action, which I’m sure some people will want a lull here and there but man so much happened! The introductions of old and new characters was seamless. I was NEVER confused about what was happening. I was fully immersed the whole time and I am SCREAMING!!! honestly, this is how you do a book 3 out of 5. I will die on this hill. This series is amazing so far.
I was BLESSED to receive the ARC of this book after living with that hell of a cliff hanger from CoF. There isn’t a chill moment in this book! It was constant action, which I’m sure some people will want a lull here and there but man so much happened! The introductions of old and new characters was seamless. I was NEVER confused about what was happening. I was fully immersed the whole time and I am SCREAMING!!! honestly, this is how you do a book 3 out of 5. I will die on this hill. This series is amazing so far.
April 8, 2025
2.75/5 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5 Usual stuff in books nothing insane
I did not like this book as much as the others. I adore the author though, she is so sweet, so all this is said respectfully.
After the cliffhanger, I was expecting more drama when her bonded found out she was sleeping with Fenn. (Obviously we all knew Fenn would live) They barely even mentioned it. It felt like the author just swept it under the rug OR this is just a filler book and it will be discussed in the next book. The issue if that is the plan? I no longer cared/care if they discuss it, because I just read a whole book where they didn't discuss it. Now it's too late and it doesn't even matter.
Felt like the whole time it was: portal this, portal that, someone needs rescuing, someone they have to fight, etc etc. The plot didn't move and I got bored. Constant fighting the whole book isn't believable.
I think I've forgotten the other books a little because it takes awhile for the new books to come out. I reread the last five chapters of book two to refresh my memory. That being said: I think the author should have taken longer to write this book because it needed to cook some more. The plot doesn't feel tight. I fear this is turning into one of those series where there will be six books and the majority of them are filler books for money when it should have only been a trilogy.
Fenn's phrases, while cute are almost overdone some.
Lots of battle scenes not much else yet.
I didn't care about the other couple. He deserves better than someone being so dismissive.
The FMC got on my nerves too.
I feel like the FMC has no personality or thoughts at all. She remains an empty FMC. Idk. I think the FMC is my biggest issue with the series.
There are no stakes. Everyone lives and everyone heals. 🥱
While I adore Fenn, his partner makes his bond with S seem diluted and actually makes me like Vesryn more. I feel like the author is setting up for like three MMC for the FMC but who knows. Somehow I don't like any of the romance now. Super frustrated because I loved the first two books.
I believe I am at the end of the journey with this series. I accepted an arc that I was excited for but now that I have read all three books, I've just lost interest. The magic is gone for some reason for me.
Again, adore the author.
🌶️🌶️/5 Usual stuff in books nothing insane
I did not like this book as much as the others. I adore the author though, she is so sweet, so all this is said respectfully.
After the cliffhanger, I was expecting more drama when her bonded found out she was sleeping with Fenn. (Obviously we all knew Fenn would live) They barely even mentioned it. It felt like the author just swept it under the rug OR this is just a filler book and it will be discussed in the next book. The issue if that is the plan? I no longer cared/care if they discuss it, because I just read a whole book where they didn't discuss it. Now it's too late and it doesn't even matter.
Felt like the whole time it was: portal this, portal that, someone needs rescuing, someone they have to fight, etc etc. The plot didn't move and I got bored. Constant fighting the whole book isn't believable.
I think I've forgotten the other books a little because it takes awhile for the new books to come out. I reread the last five chapters of book two to refresh my memory. That being said: I think the author should have taken longer to write this book because it needed to cook some more. The plot doesn't feel tight. I fear this is turning into one of those series where there will be six books and the majority of them are filler books for money when it should have only been a trilogy.
Fenn's phrases, while cute are almost overdone some.
Lots of battle scenes not much else yet.
I didn't care about the other couple. He deserves better than someone being so dismissive.
The FMC got on my nerves too.
I feel like the FMC has no personality or thoughts at all. She remains an empty FMC. Idk. I think the FMC is my biggest issue with the series.
There are no stakes. Everyone lives and everyone heals. 🥱
While I adore Fenn, his partner makes his bond with S seem diluted and actually makes me like Vesryn more. I feel like the author is setting up for like three MMC for the FMC but who knows. Somehow I don't like any of the romance now. Super frustrated because I loved the first two books.
I believe I am at the end of the journey with this series. I accepted an arc that I was excited for but now that I have read all three books, I've just lost interest. The magic is gone for some reason for me.
Again, adore the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2025
Let me start by saying I absolutely loved the first 2 books. I waited impatiently for the 3rd book and couldn’t wait to read it but I had a harder time getting to the end of this book. I felt like it dragged a bit and it felt like a lot of filler for the series. I totally understand that filler is needed but it’s easier to consume when there’s a better balance between filler and action, or character development. Yes, there was some action, but for the majority of the story, the characters were just going through portals & searching.
This book felt like it focused more on Lykor’s character development more than anything. I was really missing Vesryn’s personality and voice in this book. He felt a little more reserved/subdued and I would have loved for him to have kept more to his personality in the first 2 books, while also growing his relationships and making better choices. There was some of Vesryn’s development included in the story but it felt like that could have received more attention.
Why is nobody talking about the elephant in the room…Lykor & Jassyn’s relationship?!?! It gives me the ‘ick’. Maybe I’m missing something but Lykor shares a body with Aesar, who is Vesryn’s twin brother. Lykor has split from Aesar in a DID situation to protect Aesar, which means that Aesar/Lykor and Jassyn are first cousins. Why would the story build a relationship with apparent romantic feelings between Lykor and Jassyn? This just feels forced and it could have been developed into them becoming best friends based on their shared experience and/or trauma bonding, or something other than an impending incestuous relationship. Lykor could have had this type of relationship/pull with someone who wasn’t a family member? I’m just not a fan of this storyline. This is also not listed in the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book and I feel like it’s a big one that should be mentioned.
Overall, I feel like there is so much potential with the series, book 3 just fell really short for me.
This book felt like it focused more on Lykor’s character development more than anything. I was really missing Vesryn’s personality and voice in this book. He felt a little more reserved/subdued and I would have loved for him to have kept more to his personality in the first 2 books, while also growing his relationships and making better choices. There was some of Vesryn’s development included in the story but it felt like that could have received more attention.
Why is nobody talking about the elephant in the room…Lykor & Jassyn’s relationship?!?! It gives me the ‘ick’. Maybe I’m missing something but Lykor shares a body with Aesar, who is Vesryn’s twin brother. Lykor has split from Aesar in a DID situation to protect Aesar, which means that Aesar/Lykor and Jassyn are first cousins. Why would the story build a relationship with apparent romantic feelings between Lykor and Jassyn? This just feels forced and it could have been developed into them becoming best friends based on their shared experience and/or trauma bonding, or something other than an impending incestuous relationship. Lykor could have had this type of relationship/pull with someone who wasn’t a family member? I’m just not a fan of this storyline. This is also not listed in the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book and I feel like it’s a big one that should be mentioned.
Overall, I feel like there is so much potential with the series, book 3 just fell really short for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2025
I had high hopes for this book, but was left disappointed I think the only redeeming portion was the last 25%. Otherwise, I think I would’ve rated this book lower. I feel like there was too many details for things that didn’t matter and things that felt important were brushed over. The romance between the characters is also starting to feel a bit incestuous. The characters I love and stayed reading for were Jassyn and Vesryn, and Lykor is starting to grow on me. I didn’t care for him in the beginning of the series/book since it felt like every time we got his chapter he was throwing a tantrum. I think that Serena is immature and selfish. She she took what Ayla had said with no proof and was mad at Vesryn for no reason. Then she almost immediately jumped into bed with Fenn and doesn’t have an issue with Fenn having other partners or flirting with Jassyn in front of her, but gets mad at Vesryn for every little thing. I also don’t like that she flirts with Fenn in front of Vesryn knowing how he feels about her, especially after telling her he hadn’t touched anyone in a century before her. I also don’t like Fenn as a love interest. He feels juvenile to me, and I didn’t understand how he had almost no reaction to Serena telling him she used him in hopes Vesryn would come rescue her. I do like his and Serenna‘s friendship though.
April 28, 2025
While I love the story and the concept of all 3 books, this one definitely fell a little short for me. I feel like some of the characters really strayed from who they were in the first two books and behaved completely different than expected, as well as Serenna completely losing all of the growth she had over the previous books. I also was a little bummed by the fact that the character recap at the beginning contained spoilers for what was to come. There are some very cool concepts that were introduced in this book, and the author does great with world building, which still definitely makes it worth reading if you’ve already started the series
April 5, 2025
more like a 3.5! definitely felt like the third book in a five book series so was kindaaa giving filler/context episode as opposed to the first two but i was here for it nonetheless. really liked how the ending left us off and i think the slow burn between jassyn and lykor was cutesie especially towards the end. kinda need vesryn and serenna to finish their conversation they had like 200 pages in though like omgggg just talk!
cool i got to read an advanced copy of this too i’ve never done that before! will be tuned in for the fourth book🙂↕️
cool i got to read an advanced copy of this too i’ve never done that before! will be tuned in for the fourth book🙂↕️
April 2, 2025
✨The Shadows of Stars✨
Author: Samantha Amstutz
Release date: April 21, 2025
Books 1 & 2 available now!!
Y’all. Middle books are HARD and sometimes those bridges can feel lacking, but in Samantha’s third book in her Aelfyn Archive’s series, this does NOT happen. Sam brings us an intriguing (and whimsical) love triangle, a slow burn that is soooo precious, and all the action and chaos.
We begin right where we left off after book two’s surprise ending. We go through multiple close calls, reveals, growth, healing, and world building. Our characters are developing beautifully and this new relationship that we are entering into is just 👩🍳💋. There’s still much work to be had with our love triangle and, while it’s not painful, I’m so excited to see where Sam takes us.
We get new territories. High stakes. War on the horizon. New magics. Banter. Druids, Elves, and dragons. Y’all don’t want to miss out on this creative fantasy romance series.
Tropes you may find in TSOS are love triangle (MFM), he braids her hair, unique magics and bonds, slow burn, medium spice, dragons, elves, epic world building, “who did this to you?” & “did I do this to you?”, they comfort each other, he crawls to him, touch him and ☠️, and found family.
Thank you soooo much, Sam, for letting me be an arc reader for you again. I love this series!
Author: Samantha Amstutz
Release date: April 21, 2025
Books 1 & 2 available now!!
Y’all. Middle books are HARD and sometimes those bridges can feel lacking, but in Samantha’s third book in her Aelfyn Archive’s series, this does NOT happen. Sam brings us an intriguing (and whimsical) love triangle, a slow burn that is soooo precious, and all the action and chaos.
We begin right where we left off after book two’s surprise ending. We go through multiple close calls, reveals, growth, healing, and world building. Our characters are developing beautifully and this new relationship that we are entering into is just 👩🍳💋. There’s still much work to be had with our love triangle and, while it’s not painful, I’m so excited to see where Sam takes us.
We get new territories. High stakes. War on the horizon. New magics. Banter. Druids, Elves, and dragons. Y’all don’t want to miss out on this creative fantasy romance series.
Tropes you may find in TSOS are love triangle (MFM), he braids her hair, unique magics and bonds, slow burn, medium spice, dragons, elves, epic world building, “who did this to you?” & “did I do this to you?”, they comfort each other, he crawls to him, touch him and ☠️, and found family.
Thank you soooo much, Sam, for letting me be an arc reader for you again. I love this series!
May 22, 2025
honestly this is my fault. last book was hinting at "why choose" I was hoping I was wrong and should have looked into it more. this book definitely seals the fact that it's "why choose". if you like that genre you'll probably like it. I absolutely loath it tho.
June 28, 2025
DNF…turned into a “why choose” trope and I’m not a fan… liked the first book second was okay and this just kinda ruined it for me.
September 23, 2025
Oh hey, another why choose that was not in fact marketed that way (you get the first inkling of it at the end of book 2) 💀
Authors. Please. Do better.
Authors. Please. Do better.
December 15, 2025
Als ik hoger dan 5 sterren had kunnen geven had ik het gedaan. Wat een serie🙌🏼
Geweldig verhaal. Kan niet wachten tot boek 4
Geweldig verhaal. Kan niet wachten tot boek 4
April 3, 2025
LOVE. LOVE. LOVE!! I received this book as an ARC, and I loved it so much!! It was a rollercoaster ride from the literal start of the book to the finish, and honestly I didn’t want off! It had one of the best slow burns that I’ve read in a while and I can’t wait to see what happens with it. Tropes that I usually don’t like, I loved in this book, and that’s saying something! It was amazing, and I need the next book now. Please??
January 15, 2026
2026 re read - I freaking love this world so much and I’m LIVING for the tiny ember burning to life between these two males. 🥹❤️
Currently shoving my foot through my kindle, desperately trying to get back into this world, and wondering why it’s not working, and why my kindle won’t turn on anymore… 🤔😭
“𝙏𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨-𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙙, 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙗𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙙!”
𝗧𝗟;𝗗𝗥
This is an action packed love letter to the fans where our favorite hodgepodge of characters go on a quest for salvation, while bickering, falling in love, and fighting for their lives. It will heal your soul, while simultaneously giving you a heart attack. 😮💨
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲
🖤 𝗠𝗙𝗠 & 𝗠/𝗠
✨ 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗼
🖤 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆
✨ 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀
🖤 𝗦𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻
✨ 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆
🖤 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂
🖤 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘄 𝗗𝗮𝗱𝗱𝘆
✨ 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮
🌶️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 (𝗙/𝗠)
“𝙊𝙝 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜.”
𝕊𝕙𝕚𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕗𝕒𝕟. 🤝🏼
This throws you right into the deep end, without a life jacket. It rips the off the band aid without warning, and sets the break without pain killers. Absolutely no holding your hand happens. Prepare your fragile little hearts my friends. Chains of fate leaves us with a horrible cliffhanger, and this picks up right where that one leaves off. I laughed, I cried, I giggled incessantly, I screamed, and I threw my kindle a few times. Good times were had. 🙌🏼
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪?”
The romance. The 𝙁𝙐𝘾𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 romance.
𝗠𝗙𝗠- This is why choose at its best. Because why shouldn’t she live her life to the fullest? I’m just saying. 🤷🏼♀️ I love both of her companions. No, I won’t choose. If she doesn’t have to, I don’t either. No, there aren’t any spicy scenes with both men involved, 𝙮𝙚𝙩. (Please, Samantha?! 👀) No, this isn’t a triangle, everyone knows what’s happening, it’s their culture. Chill. 💁🏼♀️
“𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙, 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙖𝙢 𝙄 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚?”
𝗠/𝗠- this is probably my favorite m/m romance ever. It’s literal perfection. The slowest of slow burns. They’re stubborn, reluctant, and living in a world of denial, too blinded by their past traumas to let someone in. 💔 It’s taken us 3 books to get here people.
But 𝕠𝕙.𝕞𝕪.𝕘𝕠𝕕. 🥺❤️
They are just two shattered souls seeking each other out, and putting the pieces back together. It’s beautiful. 😭
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
The banter was impeccable. Between friends, and lovers alike. The bickering, the taunting, and the hilarious antics… I was choking on my spit, and dying of laughter the entire time. Chefs kiss. 💋
“𝙊𝙝, 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙨𝙝𝙚-𝙚𝙡𝙛. 𝙄𝙛 𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙛𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙚.”
I can’t even fathom how I’m supposed to wait for the next book. Yet, I do this to myself, voluntarily
𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪.𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕝𝕖.𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖.
Because it’s worth it. I can’t wait to watch the rest of this story unfold. And I need book 4 𝘆𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝘆 Samantha.
If anyone needs me I’ll be staring at the wall for the next 4-5 business months. 🫠✌🏼
Thank you to Samantha Amstutz for sending me an arc in exchange for my honest review.
Currently shoving my foot through my kindle, desperately trying to get back into this world, and wondering why it’s not working, and why my kindle won’t turn on anymore… 🤔😭
“𝙏𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙚, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙨-𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙙, 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙗𝙗𝙤𝙧𝙣 𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙙!”
𝗧𝗟;𝗗𝗥
This is an action packed love letter to the fans where our favorite hodgepodge of characters go on a quest for salvation, while bickering, falling in love, and fighting for their lives. It will heal your soul, while simultaneously giving you a heart attack. 😮💨
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲
🖤 𝗠𝗙𝗠 & 𝗠/𝗠
✨ 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗶𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗼
🖤 𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘆
✨ 𝗘𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀
🖤 𝗦𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗿𝗻
✨ 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆
🖤 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁
✨ 𝗪𝗵𝗼 𝗱𝗶𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂
🖤 𝗦𝗵𝗮𝗱𝗼𝘄 𝗗𝗮𝗱𝗱𝘆
✨ 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗮
🌶️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝘆 (𝗙/𝗠)
“𝙊𝙝 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙬𝙚’𝙡𝙡 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜.”
𝕊𝕙𝕚𝕥 𝕞𝕖𝕖𝕥 𝕗𝕒𝕟. 🤝🏼
This throws you right into the deep end, without a life jacket. It rips the off the band aid without warning, and sets the break without pain killers. Absolutely no holding your hand happens. Prepare your fragile little hearts my friends. Chains of fate leaves us with a horrible cliffhanger, and this picks up right where that one leaves off. I laughed, I cried, I giggled incessantly, I screamed, and I threw my kindle a few times. Good times were had. 🙌🏼
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙢𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪?”
The romance. The 𝙁𝙐𝘾𝙆𝙄𝙉𝙂 romance.
𝗠𝗙𝗠- This is why choose at its best. Because why shouldn’t she live her life to the fullest? I’m just saying. 🤷🏼♀️ I love both of her companions. No, I won’t choose. If she doesn’t have to, I don’t either. No, there aren’t any spicy scenes with both men involved, 𝙮𝙚𝙩. (Please, Samantha?! 👀) No, this isn’t a triangle, everyone knows what’s happening, it’s their culture. Chill. 💁🏼♀️
“𝙇𝙤𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙, 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙖𝙢 𝙄 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙭𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚?”
𝗠/𝗠- this is probably my favorite m/m romance ever. It’s literal perfection. The slowest of slow burns. They’re stubborn, reluctant, and living in a world of denial, too blinded by their past traumas to let someone in. 💔 It’s taken us 3 books to get here people.
But 𝕠𝕙.𝕞𝕪.𝕘𝕠𝕕. 🥺❤️
They are just two shattered souls seeking each other out, and putting the pieces back together. It’s beautiful. 😭
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙣𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨, 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙖 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙤𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
The banter was impeccable. Between friends, and lovers alike. The bickering, the taunting, and the hilarious antics… I was choking on my spit, and dying of laughter the entire time. Chefs kiss. 💋
“𝙊𝙝, 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚, 𝙨𝙝𝙚-𝙚𝙡𝙛. 𝙄𝙛 𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙛𝙤𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙄’𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙩𝙞𝙨𝙚.”
I can’t even fathom how I’m supposed to wait for the next book. Yet, I do this to myself, voluntarily
𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕪.𝕤𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕝𝕖.𝕥𝕚𝕞𝕖.
Because it’s worth it. I can’t wait to watch the rest of this story unfold. And I need book 4 𝘆𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝘆 Samantha.
If anyone needs me I’ll be staring at the wall for the next 4-5 business months. 🫠✌🏼
Thank you to Samantha Amstutz for sending me an arc in exchange for my honest review.
April 1, 2025
OH MY GOSH. I received this book as an ARC reader and I am completely distraught over finishing it and now having to wait from the cliffhanger! Everything about the series completely brings you into their world and keeps you wanting. I couldn’t put this book down and the story just progressed perfectly. I cannot wait for the next one!
September 3, 2025
4.5⭐️ I debated whether or not I wanted to read this book because I did not like the introduction of Fenn into the story. I’ll go more into my complaints about that in a minute, and it is the reason I took a half a star off my rating.
I’m so glad I read it, though. I couldn’t stop reading because the story was so good. Jassyn and Lykor carried the book relationship-wise. I just want a happily ever after for Jassyn.
Now my complaints with the whole “MFM” storyline… I’ve read other MFM books and I’m not opposed to that trope. However, this isn’t really that. First, we have Fenn who does everything in his power to get Vesryn riled up and to make him jealous. I guess other MFM books I’ve read do not have the jealousy issue and support the female’s other male partner because they make her happy also, not goad them into a reaction. It also needs to be consensual all around to be a true MFM relationship in my opinion. But it is not really between Serenna and Vesryn. He clearly wants her and her alone and is not OK with her being with Fenn. She pretty much hides whenever she is with Fenn. And nothing really gets resolved with it throughout the book! There’s no communication about the situation and they don’t all come to an understanding. He basically just has to go along with it if he wants to keep her in any way. I guess I feel like Serenna really wants to be with Fenn more than Vesryn because of how she has changed as a person and feel like she is stringing Vesryn along out of guilt or pity. I just feel like Vesryn deserves better. There, rant done!🤣
I’m so glad I read it, though. I couldn’t stop reading because the story was so good. Jassyn and Lykor carried the book relationship-wise. I just want a happily ever after for Jassyn.
Now my complaints with the whole “MFM” storyline… I’ve read other MFM books and I’m not opposed to that trope. However, this isn’t really that. First, we have Fenn who does everything in his power to get Vesryn riled up and to make him jealous. I guess other MFM books I’ve read do not have the jealousy issue and support the female’s other male partner because they make her happy also, not goad them into a reaction. It also needs to be consensual all around to be a true MFM relationship in my opinion. But it is not really between Serenna and Vesryn. He clearly wants her and her alone and is not OK with her being with Fenn. She pretty much hides whenever she is with Fenn. And nothing really gets resolved with it throughout the book! There’s no communication about the situation and they don’t all come to an understanding. He basically just has to go along with it if he wants to keep her in any way. I guess I feel like Serenna really wants to be with Fenn more than Vesryn because of how she has changed as a person and feel like she is stringing Vesryn along out of guilt or pity. I just feel like Vesryn deserves better. There, rant done!🤣
June 10, 2025
This is now my favorite book of the series. This story gets better with each book. The relationships are more developed now and I feel like I really know and understand each character, their motives and perspectives. I am really rooting for a few couples and maybe a little Why Choose action? 👀 Really hoping here 😂 This book was one long quest with a lot of obstacles (especially Lykor’s stubbornness, although I usually agree with him). There were some interesting revelations and the ending left me really wanting more! Things are about to really ramp up
August 30, 2025
Serenna still annoys me, Lykor ??????, and Vesryn was done DIRTY justice for my king
July 22, 2025
DNF to be fair I don’t like why choose, especially the way it was done in this book. The characters became flat and lost all dimension. I really loved the first book so I’m sad by how quickly this took a turn. It was a cool concept overall and Jassyn was one of my favorite characters I’ve read in a while, but it because wattpad fluff.
January 8, 2025
Omg! We have a beautiful cover!
April 18, 2025
*Thanks to the author for sending me an ARC of this book*
3.5 stars? Say it ain't so!
I love this series, but this book really suffers from middle-book syndrome.
In this instalment our characters are away from the academy at Centarya, searching for somewhere safe to hide the refugees from the capital's attack. It was nice for Lykor to finally have extended interaction with Jassyn and Vesryn - Lykor in particular is a highlight in this book and the budding relationships we see are just swoon-worthy!
Unfortunately the book feels a bit drawn out and repetitive, with our band basically just travelling for most of it. The number of times they warped/portaled/folded in on themselves got almost confusing. Every so often there was a bit of a battle, and while we did learn a bit about what's going on in the capital with the king and Elashor, a lot of it didn't have much consequence. Then a lot is revealed in the last 50 pages or so which - though super interesting - just sets us up for the next book.
I also really love romantic subplots in my fantasy, and while Lykor/Jassyn is so damn good, Serenna's love story in this is painful. It seems to be an unpopular opinion but I'm firmly team Vesryn and although Fenn is sweet, I don't care for him as a love interest. I don't really enjoy reading love triangles/"why choose"/multiple partner relationships either, although I have no doubt lots of readers will. I'm sure the author will tie up the relationship in a satisfying way no matter the outcome, but this book gives me the impression it won't be the one I'd really like to see!
That being said, this story is obviously building to something big and with the title reveal for the next book I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on it.
3.5 stars? Say it ain't so!
I love this series, but this book really suffers from middle-book syndrome.
In this instalment our characters are away from the academy at Centarya, searching for somewhere safe to hide the refugees from the capital's attack. It was nice for Lykor to finally have extended interaction with Jassyn and Vesryn - Lykor in particular is a highlight in this book and the budding relationships we see are just swoon-worthy!
Unfortunately the book feels a bit drawn out and repetitive, with our band basically just travelling for most of it. The number of times they warped/portaled/folded in on themselves got almost confusing. Every so often there was a bit of a battle, and while we did learn a bit about what's going on in the capital with the king and Elashor, a lot of it didn't have much consequence. Then a lot is revealed in the last 50 pages or so which - though super interesting - just sets us up for the next book.
I also really love romantic subplots in my fantasy, and while Lykor/Jassyn is so damn good, Serenna's love story in this is painful. It seems to be an unpopular opinion but I'm firmly team Vesryn and although Fenn is sweet, I don't care for him as a love interest. I don't really enjoy reading love triangles/"why choose"/multiple partner relationships either, although I have no doubt lots of readers will. I'm sure the author will tie up the relationship in a satisfying way no matter the outcome, but this book gives me the impression it won't be the one I'd really like to see!
That being said, this story is obviously building to something big and with the title reveal for the next book I'm really looking forward to getting my hands on it.
April 30, 2025
Book 3 of the Aelfyn Archives series! This became my favorite out of them! I needed this after the ending of Chains of Fate! I highly recommend this series to fans of Baldur's Gate 3. It gave me those kinds of vibes, which was an absolute blast! The world and magic systems are so unique and interesting. The characters are so fun and lovable. Lykor became an absolute favorite!
June 5, 2025
Omg I love that book 3 picks up where Book 2 left off with the characters on the Hunt for the heart of stars in order to free the dragons. Traveling through the wastelands to find said dragons and a lot of character development in this one as well. I am a Jassyn and Lykor stand. I was yelling at my Kindle for them to kiss already. I can’t wait for Book 4!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2025
oh my gosh I have to wait how long for the next book!! I need the next one now!!! man this series has become a comfort read. If ya want a unique magic system and some amazing tension then ya should read this series!!
April 21, 2025
I had the honor of beta reading this fantastic book! I’m a huge fan of the series and have read it multiple times! Thank you! This is a 5 star series for me. I will be reading The Shadows of Stars again this year and soon the audiobook of book 2. One of my read throughs for book 1 was the audio and it’s SO GOOD!!
This series has the best slow burn of building the characters. I LOVE Serenna’s growth in book 3! I kept cheering her on! She is not the same princess we meet at the beginning of the series, she is strong, fearless and fierce. Jassyn’s healing and his connection to Lykor had me in tears. Their little moments of understanding each other was written so well. Vesryn is being completely torn down but can Seranna rebuild him into a better elf? And then Fenn! Omg this elf! He has a much bigger role in this book and it’s divine! I love these characters and the journey so much I turned them into World of Warcraft characters.
As a video game player, I love Samantha’s imagery and visuals for the magic. There is so much magic used in the this book, it’s amazing. The whole book came alive in my mind and I was enchanted. The politics, lore and history of the world is top tier world building for me. This book is what I LOVE about fantasy.
There are so many heart wrenching moments and action pact scenes. So many moments where I was on the edge of my seat, couldn’t read fast enough only to get the end of the chapter and scream NOOOO and then continue reading, needing more.
The Aelfyn Archives ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This series has the best slow burn of building the characters. I LOVE Serenna’s growth in book 3! I kept cheering her on! She is not the same princess we meet at the beginning of the series, she is strong, fearless and fierce. Jassyn’s healing and his connection to Lykor had me in tears. Their little moments of understanding each other was written so well. Vesryn is being completely torn down but can Seranna rebuild him into a better elf? And then Fenn! Omg this elf! He has a much bigger role in this book and it’s divine! I love these characters and the journey so much I turned them into World of Warcraft characters.
As a video game player, I love Samantha’s imagery and visuals for the magic. There is so much magic used in the this book, it’s amazing. The whole book came alive in my mind and I was enchanted. The politics, lore and history of the world is top tier world building for me. This book is what I LOVE about fantasy.
There are so many heart wrenching moments and action pact scenes. So many moments where I was on the edge of my seat, couldn’t read fast enough only to get the end of the chapter and scream NOOOO and then continue reading, needing more.
The Aelfyn Archives ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 29, 2025
I’ve never written so much in a review before. I think because book one was amazing.
So I loved book one.
Book two loved Jassyn and Vesryns journey. Fenn I love as a character, but didn’t see the reason for him and Serena being together, didn’t make sense except for spicy content.
Book three, it was very wordy with a lot of repetition and the ‘romance’ is ruined in this book.
I’m not speaking about Lykor and Jassyn, though that was repetitive.
Fenn, although a fun character, is still there for spicy content, but the two of them together does not make sense. It’s not romance, just f@cking.
Vesryn’s character was diminished in this book I felt. He declares he has not been with anyone for years and Serena doesn’t reflect on any of it, not mentioned again. He says Serena is only interested in him when Fenn isn’t around is absolutely true. He says it, then it’s not discussed about and then spicy action happens. Not thought of again. Next day she has spicy action with Fenn, she has no interest in Vesryn clearly. Why would Vesryn entertain another guy going for his girl considering what he admitted? The MFM does not make sense.
what was the whole point of in book one them sensing the bond between each other (which I loved btw) and the tension, just for him to be diminished.
There could have been a really good development arc between Serena and Vesryn. He clearly loves her and she isn’t even caring about it.
The polyamory angle is not believable (I know it’s a fantasy novel). I’m not a huge fan of it but when it’s done well, I can get past it and I Love the tension of a love triangle. But this doesn’t have a clear path to anything except to add spice content.
Also the way conversations, issues and trauma were handled in the first two books was done really well. I think it was completely left out in this book.
**update I’ve just seen a post by the author and it looks like it’s going to stay mfm. So true to my reviews I will not continue the series as I just don’t buy it. Romance completely ruined.
Also, key points of the story glossed over(there were many) to name a one, Vesryn devastated over the loss of his mother and brother but when reunited, we don’t get anything about it. I honestly feel like Vesryn and Aesar are not important anymore.
So I loved book one.
Book two loved Jassyn and Vesryns journey. Fenn I love as a character, but didn’t see the reason for him and Serena being together, didn’t make sense except for spicy content.
Book three, it was very wordy with a lot of repetition and the ‘romance’ is ruined in this book.
I’m not speaking about Lykor and Jassyn, though that was repetitive.
Fenn, although a fun character, is still there for spicy content, but the two of them together does not make sense. It’s not romance, just f@cking.
Vesryn’s character was diminished in this book I felt. He declares he has not been with anyone for years and Serena doesn’t reflect on any of it, not mentioned again. He says Serena is only interested in him when Fenn isn’t around is absolutely true. He says it, then it’s not discussed about and then spicy action happens. Not thought of again. Next day she has spicy action with Fenn, she has no interest in Vesryn clearly. Why would Vesryn entertain another guy going for his girl considering what he admitted? The MFM does not make sense.
what was the whole point of in book one them sensing the bond between each other (which I loved btw) and the tension, just for him to be diminished.
There could have been a really good development arc between Serena and Vesryn. He clearly loves her and she isn’t even caring about it.
The polyamory angle is not believable (I know it’s a fantasy novel). I’m not a huge fan of it but when it’s done well, I can get past it and I Love the tension of a love triangle. But this doesn’t have a clear path to anything except to add spice content.
Also the way conversations, issues and trauma were handled in the first two books was done really well. I think it was completely left out in this book.
**update I’ve just seen a post by the author and it looks like it’s going to stay mfm. So true to my reviews I will not continue the series as I just don’t buy it. Romance completely ruined.
Also, key points of the story glossed over(there were many) to name a one, Vesryn devastated over the loss of his mother and brother but when reunited, we don’t get anything about it. I honestly feel like Vesryn and Aesar are not important anymore.
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