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Ashes of Eormun #2
The Orphan and the Queen
On the day the Fourth Crusade departs for Leftland, things are happening in the city of Bransport. Things that will shake the foundations of the Brannic Empire.
In the House of Draeids, a girl named Vera comes of age and is sent to make her final sacrifice—to be burned alive, so that the Church of Alchemy can use her magical ashes to fuel their war machines, and all their so-called “progress.” But just before she meets her fate, she discovers that she’s different than all the other draeids.
Elsewhere in the city of Bransport, the Mad Queen, Annistis Fyrngelt, rots in a tower. Usurped by her cousin, her entire life is contained within the iron bars of her prison. That is until a band of outlaws blows a hole in the tower and frees her. Pursued by the might of the Empire she once ruled, Annistis flees into the swamps of Fenland, determined to reclaim her throne, or die trying. But she’s caught in a swirling mix of competing ideologies and political machinations, and the only way she can hope to raise an army is to make promises she can’t possibly keep.
In Leftland, Rony Hirdman becomes the sergeant over a squad of scouts that want nothing to do with her. And sergeants that aren’t liked by their men have a habit of dying quickly. If she wants to avoid an axe in the back of her head, she’ll need to earn their respect by running faster, working harder, and fighting meaner than everyone else. But if she keeps slaughtering the innocent natives of Leftland, she might get the respect of her men, but will she lose her soul in the process?
And on the far side of that mysterious continent, Lochled Thatcher awakes to find his mortal wounds healed by the very people he’d been sent to kill. The Tickers have shown him mercy. But it will come at a cost. Because these Tickers want him to teach them how to wage war as brutally as the soldiers of the Fourth Crusade. And that is a cost that Lochled is unsure he’s willing to pay.
Lines will be crossed. But that’s war. And this war is only getting started.
Ashes of Eormun:
Book 1: A Harvest of Ash and Blood
Book 2: The Orphan and the Queen
Book 3: The Breath That Breaks the Stone (Fall 2024)
In the House of Draeids, a girl named Vera comes of age and is sent to make her final sacrifice—to be burned alive, so that the Church of Alchemy can use her magical ashes to fuel their war machines, and all their so-called “progress.” But just before she meets her fate, she discovers that she’s different than all the other draeids.
Elsewhere in the city of Bransport, the Mad Queen, Annistis Fyrngelt, rots in a tower. Usurped by her cousin, her entire life is contained within the iron bars of her prison. That is until a band of outlaws blows a hole in the tower and frees her. Pursued by the might of the Empire she once ruled, Annistis flees into the swamps of Fenland, determined to reclaim her throne, or die trying. But she’s caught in a swirling mix of competing ideologies and political machinations, and the only way she can hope to raise an army is to make promises she can’t possibly keep.
In Leftland, Rony Hirdman becomes the sergeant over a squad of scouts that want nothing to do with her. And sergeants that aren’t liked by their men have a habit of dying quickly. If she wants to avoid an axe in the back of her head, she’ll need to earn their respect by running faster, working harder, and fighting meaner than everyone else. But if she keeps slaughtering the innocent natives of Leftland, she might get the respect of her men, but will she lose her soul in the process?
And on the far side of that mysterious continent, Lochled Thatcher awakes to find his mortal wounds healed by the very people he’d been sent to kill. The Tickers have shown him mercy. But it will come at a cost. Because these Tickers want him to teach them how to wage war as brutally as the soldiers of the Fourth Crusade. And that is a cost that Lochled is unsure he’s willing to pay.
Lines will be crossed. But that’s war. And this war is only getting started.
Ashes of Eormun:
Book 1: A Harvest of Ash and Blood
Book 2: The Orphan and the Queen
Book 3: The Breath That Breaks the Stone (Fall 2024)
Unknown Binding
First published August 15, 2024
45 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Molles
45 books1,435 followersD.J. Molles became a New York Times and USA today bestselling author while working full time as a police officer. He's since traded his badge for a keyboard to produce over 20 titles. When he's not writing, he's taking steps to make his North Carolina property self-sustainable, and training to be at least half as hard to kill as Lee Harden (his most popular protagonist).
Molles also enjoys playing his guitar and drums, drawing, cooking, and “shredding that green pow” on his Onewheel.
Most nights you can find him sitting on the couch surrounded by his dogs and family, trying to stream an hour of Netflix with his really sketchy satellite internet connection.
Are you interested in becoming a writer? I've started a video series called "Lessons in Writing" which you can find on all my socials.
Follow on IG & FB @djmolles
TikTok @djmollesauthor
Molles also enjoys playing his guitar and drums, drawing, cooking, and “shredding that green pow” on his Onewheel.
Most nights you can find him sitting on the couch surrounded by his dogs and family, trying to stream an hour of Netflix with his really sketchy satellite internet connection.
Are you interested in becoming a writer? I've started a video series called "Lessons in Writing" which you can find on all my socials.
Follow on IG & FB @djmolles
TikTok @djmollesauthor
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
August 14, 2024
Is it too much to ask for one new book from this series every month?
What I loved about THE ORPHAN AND THE QUEEN, book 2 in the Ashes of Eormun series:
-The characters
-The world building
-The plot
-The writing
Perfection, all of it!
But what I love most is the way the story reflects humanity—our world, our thoughts, our behavior—right back at ourselves. It’s a grim but honest mirror. The content is never heavy handed. Molles doesn’t force a message down readers’ throats. Instead, he lets the story speak to us, so we can draw our own conclusions.
*I received an eARC from the author, which made me shriek with excitement, but I was under no obligation to gush. All gushing is done at my own volition.*
What I loved about THE ORPHAN AND THE QUEEN, book 2 in the Ashes of Eormun series:
-The characters
-The world building
-The plot
-The writing
Perfection, all of it!
But what I love most is the way the story reflects humanity—our world, our thoughts, our behavior—right back at ourselves. It’s a grim but honest mirror. The content is never heavy handed. Molles doesn’t force a message down readers’ throats. Instead, he lets the story speak to us, so we can draw our own conclusions.
*I received an eARC from the author, which made me shriek with excitement, but I was under no obligation to gush. All gushing is done at my own volition.*
August 19, 2024
Another great book from DJ Molles! If you enjoyed the first book, then you should love this one! And if you didn’t enjoy the first one (this would be me), then I HIGHLY recommend you give this one a shot because I really enjoyed it. From the first page I was hooked. Cliche but true :)
Pros: Molles’ writing is amazing! Beautiful imagery and thoughtful character development. There is more insight into the Tickers way of life and who they are as a people group. The world building was more detailed and complex in this book. And for me, that was a big positive correction from book one. Different events and plans were unfolding and I kept wanting to read to find out what was going to happen.
Cons: This book still takes place in a dark world with lots of murder and genocide. I had a hard time rooting for any of the main characters. Don’t get me wrong, they were well written and I did want to find out what happened with each of them. But this book was still missing that hero who did the right thing simply because it was the right thing to do. Maybe I’m too altruistic or black and white but that’s my take.
Overall the pros outweighed the cons and I am now looking forward to book three!
Pros: Molles’ writing is amazing! Beautiful imagery and thoughtful character development. There is more insight into the Tickers way of life and who they are as a people group. The world building was more detailed and complex in this book. And for me, that was a big positive correction from book one. Different events and plans were unfolding and I kept wanting to read to find out what was going to happen.
Cons: This book still takes place in a dark world with lots of murder and genocide. I had a hard time rooting for any of the main characters. Don’t get me wrong, they were well written and I did want to find out what happened with each of them. But this book was still missing that hero who did the right thing simply because it was the right thing to do. Maybe I’m too altruistic or black and white but that’s my take.
Overall the pros outweighed the cons and I am now looking forward to book three!
January 13, 2025
Nice follow up to Harvest Of Ash And Blood, got a tad slow in the middle with slow plot development, but finished nicely. Starting the 3rd and final book of the Ashes Of Eormun trilogy, The Breath That Breaks The Stone.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2024
This second book is quite different, though just as enjoyable as the first. As it's now a self-published series it has the distinction of being the only self-published fantasy book that I've given five stars. Depending on how I'm feeling on a given day, I could state that it's the best self-published work I've ever read. That may not say much, so I'll also state that it's one of the more enjoyable books I've read. Even better, the third book is set to release later this year, only a few months after the second. Molle's website says that Season 1 concludes this year, which makes me hopeful that there's much more to come. At the rate this series is going, it may become one of my all-time favorites. That astounds me and really demonstrates how much an author's writing can improve over the years. I find it difficult not to overhype, because as I'm far as I'm concerned it's the most underread fantasy series relative to its quality that I've read. It does and has almost everything I could want. It has a brisk pace and a suitable length. You should be reading this if you enjoy epic and/or military fantasy.
So, how does it differ? As compared to the first book, there's much less military campaigning. In its place intrigue comes to the fore. Various factions are developed and represented, each with their own overlapping and competing interests. There are few friends, but many allies of convenience, and often desperation. Ideals give way to the necessity of circumstance. Today's allies may be tomorrow's enemies, but one has to survive until tomorrow for that to pass. Each character has to decide with which faction to align, as to be on their own is certain death. Often it may not be much of a choice, but still its their own decision.
There are four main viewpoints. The two from the first book and the orphan and the Queen. The questions they must each answer are: How much of what I'm doing is to survive and how much of it is to improve the lives of my chosen group? Is this the righteous path or am I falling into an ever deeper darkness and killing all my companions? Will the future we seek be worth the ruination wrought?
Those are the questions asked on a personal level. Many factional and societal questions are posed as well. Who ought to shoulder the burden of a society's progress? Is there a better way, and if so, does that matter? How much suffering of others is permissible for our own comfort and convenience? Given that the resources fueling our progress are known to be limited, should any thought be given to management?
That's not to say this is an introspective and discussion oriented book, because it isn't. Most of the above questions are asked and answered through their actions. They're all too busy trying to stay alive, so it's mostly for the reader to consider what relevance they have for the story and their own lives. I appreciate that.
So, how does it differ? As compared to the first book, there's much less military campaigning. In its place intrigue comes to the fore. Various factions are developed and represented, each with their own overlapping and competing interests. There are few friends, but many allies of convenience, and often desperation. Ideals give way to the necessity of circumstance. Today's allies may be tomorrow's enemies, but one has to survive until tomorrow for that to pass. Each character has to decide with which faction to align, as to be on their own is certain death. Often it may not be much of a choice, but still its their own decision.
There are four main viewpoints. The two from the first book and the orphan and the Queen. The questions they must each answer are: How much of what I'm doing is to survive and how much of it is to improve the lives of my chosen group? Is this the righteous path or am I falling into an ever deeper darkness and killing all my companions? Will the future we seek be worth the ruination wrought?
Those are the questions asked on a personal level. Many factional and societal questions are posed as well. Who ought to shoulder the burden of a society's progress? Is there a better way, and if so, does that matter? How much suffering of others is permissible for our own comfort and convenience? Given that the resources fueling our progress are known to be limited, should any thought be given to management?
That's not to say this is an introspective and discussion oriented book, because it isn't. Most of the above questions are asked and answered through their actions. They're all too busy trying to stay alive, so it's mostly for the reader to consider what relevance they have for the story and their own lives. I appreciate that.
August 9, 2024
The Orphan & The Queen is the highly anticipated second book of Molles’ Ashes of Eormun series. The first book, A Harvest of Ash & Blood, introduces us to a new, dark, fantasy world. But there ain’t no Hobbits or Dwarves. This is a world where people will give up their children if they are deemed as being draeids to be burned to ash just for physical conveniences. This is a world where war is waged against peaceful beings to harvest the ash of their dead.
The Orphan & The Queen picks up pretty much where A Harvest of Ash & Blood left off. The Fourth Crusade is still wreaking havoc in Leftland. We see familiar faces. Rony is still in the army battling a crisis of conscience, Lochled wakes up with Tickers around him, and the Seeker Kayna finds her way to the leader of the Tinkers. And we are introduced to some new, important players.
Vera is a draeid in the House of Draeids, at least that’s where we meet her. But a Seeker, Cargast, takes Vera on an important mission. You may remember the Mad Queen, Annistis Fyrngelt, mentioned in A Harvest of Ash & Blood. We get to know Annistis beyond the rude names and dig into the reality of her story, including a terrible secret.
Molles did a superb job of introducing the world in A Harvest of Ash & Blood. At the end we were left with a burning desire to learn more about the world, about the people and about the magic. With The Orphan & The Queen, Molles guides us through the intricacies of the different societies and races. We get to know so much more about the Tinkers, who they really are, their culture, their history, and so much more. We learn more about the Church, the Crown, and those who serve. We see even more growth from Lochled and Rony. It is eminently satisfying with each page and each word earning their place.
Molles has created such a lush and interesting world that is unlike any in the Fantasy genre. The worst part will be the waiting for book 3. Thankfully Molles has busted his behind and we won’t have to wait long.
The Orphan & The Queen picks up pretty much where A Harvest of Ash & Blood left off. The Fourth Crusade is still wreaking havoc in Leftland. We see familiar faces. Rony is still in the army battling a crisis of conscience, Lochled wakes up with Tickers around him, and the Seeker Kayna finds her way to the leader of the Tinkers. And we are introduced to some new, important players.
Vera is a draeid in the House of Draeids, at least that’s where we meet her. But a Seeker, Cargast, takes Vera on an important mission. You may remember the Mad Queen, Annistis Fyrngelt, mentioned in A Harvest of Ash & Blood. We get to know Annistis beyond the rude names and dig into the reality of her story, including a terrible secret.
Molles did a superb job of introducing the world in A Harvest of Ash & Blood. At the end we were left with a burning desire to learn more about the world, about the people and about the magic. With The Orphan & The Queen, Molles guides us through the intricacies of the different societies and races. We get to know so much more about the Tinkers, who they really are, their culture, their history, and so much more. We learn more about the Church, the Crown, and those who serve. We see even more growth from Lochled and Rony. It is eminently satisfying with each page and each word earning their place.
Molles has created such a lush and interesting world that is unlike any in the Fantasy genre. The worst part will be the waiting for book 3. Thankfully Molles has busted his behind and we won’t have to wait long.
August 13, 2024
We have a new reigning king of Grim Dark fantasy and his name is D.J. Molles.
Book 2 of the Ashes of Eormun trilogy picks back up right where book 1 ends with Lochled in the hands of his former enemies. It also starts off with brand new characters that are the focus of this book (paralleling book 1 timeline), but part of the grander scheme of the trilogy. A political prisoner with a dangerous secret is broken out of her prison to lead a rebellion, and a young girl who reads all secrets begins her new life with the man she most hates…but has groomed her to be a powerful “Seeker.”
And so we delve into the political aspects of this detailed world created by Molles, and we also smack back into consciousness with Lochled, who finds himself in the hands of the “Tickers,” his sworn lifelong enemies…until he rescued two children Tickers, who are deeply valued by their society. But now what? Well, we discover that either Lochled steps into a natural role he knows well, or lets himself be used in others’ games.
Rony is reintroduced and has been appointed as a Sargeant that is a woman in a war of men. She has to learn quickly how to lead soldiers who see her as inferior and weak without losing her head in the process. Her natural strengths in strategy help her attract the attention of the real movers in the army raiding through Leftland destroying everything that the beings they see as subhuman represent.
It was a tough read for me in some areas, because the parallels to our society are clearly evident (albeit without politics). There are some shocking moments, visceral conflicts, and brutal imagery, but the most difficult for me was reading how an entire society loses their innocence because it’s do or die. Get ready for magic, unleashed power on a grand scale, innocence lost, purpose found, and more.
I recommend this book and D.J. Molles (Molay) without reservation and can’t wait for book 3!
Book 2 of the Ashes of Eormun trilogy picks back up right where book 1 ends with Lochled in the hands of his former enemies. It also starts off with brand new characters that are the focus of this book (paralleling book 1 timeline), but part of the grander scheme of the trilogy. A political prisoner with a dangerous secret is broken out of her prison to lead a rebellion, and a young girl who reads all secrets begins her new life with the man she most hates…but has groomed her to be a powerful “Seeker.”
And so we delve into the political aspects of this detailed world created by Molles, and we also smack back into consciousness with Lochled, who finds himself in the hands of the “Tickers,” his sworn lifelong enemies…until he rescued two children Tickers, who are deeply valued by their society. But now what? Well, we discover that either Lochled steps into a natural role he knows well, or lets himself be used in others’ games.
Rony is reintroduced and has been appointed as a Sargeant that is a woman in a war of men. She has to learn quickly how to lead soldiers who see her as inferior and weak without losing her head in the process. Her natural strengths in strategy help her attract the attention of the real movers in the army raiding through Leftland destroying everything that the beings they see as subhuman represent.
It was a tough read for me in some areas, because the parallels to our society are clearly evident (albeit without politics). There are some shocking moments, visceral conflicts, and brutal imagery, but the most difficult for me was reading how an entire society loses their innocence because it’s do or die. Get ready for magic, unleashed power on a grand scale, innocence lost, purpose found, and more.
I recommend this book and D.J. Molles (Molay) without reservation and can’t wait for book 3!
August 13, 2024
The Orphan and the Queen by D.J. Molles is a fantastic sequel that successfully expands the rich world of Eormun, delivering a captivating continuation of the story. I was thrilled to dive deeper into this complex world, and the additional POVs were a wonderful addition. The ability to switch between characters and locations not only kept me engaged but also provided a broader perspective on the unfolding events. The convergence of timelines for certain characters was especially gratifying, building anticipation for their continued journeys in the next book.
Vera and Annistis stole the show for me. Their character development throughout the book was compelling, and I was particularly excited to see them join forces by the end. As a fan of strong female protagonists, I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing them take on the Seekers and the church in the upcoming installment. Their alliance promises to bring even more intensity to the story.
Exploring the world of the Tickers was another highlight. Lochled’s interactions with them, especially as he grapples with his role in their past suffering and his complicated loyalty to a church that took so much from him, added a poignant depth to his character. His journey of redemption was thought-provoking and left me eager to see where his path leads.
The Seekers continue to intrigue me. The more I learn about them, the more complex they become, and I’m fascinated by the layers of mystery surrounding them. While I’m still undecided on how I feel about their role in the story, I’m eager to uncover more about their history and the brewing revolt in the next book.
However, I have to admit that Rony’s storyline fell a bit flat for me. I loved her character in the first book, but her sections in this sequel felt slower and didn’t capture my attention as much as the others. That said, the introduction of Timney was a bright spot, and I’m hopeful that their dynamic will become more engaging in the next installment.
Overall, The Orphan and the Queen is a strong follow-up that deepens the world and characters I’ve grown to love. While there were a few slower moments, the book’s strengths far outweighed them, and I’m excited to move forward with The Breath That Breaks the Stone. If you enjoyed the first book, this one is definitely worth your time!
Vera and Annistis stole the show for me. Their character development throughout the book was compelling, and I was particularly excited to see them join forces by the end. As a fan of strong female protagonists, I’m eagerly looking forward to seeing them take on the Seekers and the church in the upcoming installment. Their alliance promises to bring even more intensity to the story.
Exploring the world of the Tickers was another highlight. Lochled’s interactions with them, especially as he grapples with his role in their past suffering and his complicated loyalty to a church that took so much from him, added a poignant depth to his character. His journey of redemption was thought-provoking and left me eager to see where his path leads.
The Seekers continue to intrigue me. The more I learn about them, the more complex they become, and I’m fascinated by the layers of mystery surrounding them. While I’m still undecided on how I feel about their role in the story, I’m eager to uncover more about their history and the brewing revolt in the next book.
However, I have to admit that Rony’s storyline fell a bit flat for me. I loved her character in the first book, but her sections in this sequel felt slower and didn’t capture my attention as much as the others. That said, the introduction of Timney was a bright spot, and I’m hopeful that their dynamic will become more engaging in the next installment.
Overall, The Orphan and the Queen is a strong follow-up that deepens the world and characters I’ve grown to love. While there were a few slower moments, the book’s strengths far outweighed them, and I’m excited to move forward with The Breath That Breaks the Stone. If you enjoyed the first book, this one is definitely worth your time!
August 7, 2024
I loved how the start of the book runs alongside the start of the other book as in the events take place at the same time. You hear about the queens escape in AHOAAB so it was great to bring it together like that.
I liked the poetry language that DJ used and the way he describes things so beautifully. “For it is the folly of damned me to always seek to pull others into hell with them!
I loved this book! The flow of the story and the ideas that DJ has are mind blowing. The character’s developments and the introduction of new characters meant I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to add this to my collection. Rony is such a fabulous character! I love how she almost mirrors Lochled’s journey in AHOAAB. Here in Leftland, they are crossing lines they don’t want to cross, being forced to do things they never wanted to do, by not holding back and taking advantage of every opportunity and every mistake the enemy makes, to make them bleed like they made you bleed!
We walk this path together, or we don’t walk it at all!
I liked the poetry language that DJ used and the way he describes things so beautifully. “For it is the folly of damned me to always seek to pull others into hell with them!
I loved this book! The flow of the story and the ideas that DJ has are mind blowing. The character’s developments and the introduction of new characters meant I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait to add this to my collection. Rony is such a fabulous character! I love how she almost mirrors Lochled’s journey in AHOAAB. Here in Leftland, they are crossing lines they don’t want to cross, being forced to do things they never wanted to do, by not holding back and taking advantage of every opportunity and every mistake the enemy makes, to make them bleed like they made you bleed!
We walk this path together, or we don’t walk it at all!
August 14, 2024
Full disclosure, I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
If you're reading this, I'll assume that you've read the first book in the series already so I won't go into too much detail about the characters, setting, etc. If you liked that book, you'll probably like this one even better. And if you struggled with the brutality, violence and general darkness of the first book, I'd say you should still consider reading this because it has all the great world-building elements of the first book but is is slightly less grim and a bit more character-driven.
I'm a huge fan of D.J. Molles writing and I'm pretty sure that I've read everything that he has published so far. That being the case, he's set a pretty high bar in my mind for these books but I'd say that they're up to his usual standards. If you like dark fantasy along the lines of Joe Abercrombie, you'll probably like this series as well.
If you're reading this, I'll assume that you've read the first book in the series already so I won't go into too much detail about the characters, setting, etc. If you liked that book, you'll probably like this one even better. And if you struggled with the brutality, violence and general darkness of the first book, I'd say you should still consider reading this because it has all the great world-building elements of the first book but is is slightly less grim and a bit more character-driven.
I'm a huge fan of D.J. Molles writing and I'm pretty sure that I've read everything that he has published so far. That being the case, he's set a pretty high bar in my mind for these books but I'd say that they're up to his usual standards. If you like dark fantasy along the lines of Joe Abercrombie, you'll probably like this series as well.
August 9, 2024
An excellent follow-up to the first book. After the introduction to the general setting there we see the world depth increase markedly in The Orphan and the Queen. We see well-realised cultures far outside what was expected and start to learn about the various machinations of the existing and overthrown monarch, the Church and the Seekers.
This book introduces some new major characters in addition to us seeing some familiar faces but the arc count remains modest so each of the main sequences gets the time it needs to be fully and satisfyingly developed.
Its impressive for an author so associated with post-apocalyptic fiction to deliver such a strong entry in the epic fantasy genre (though his sci-fi is also great). And of course given its DJ Molles the action scenes are absolutely top shelf.
A strong continuation to the series, highly recommended for anyone who likes their fantasy grounded and gritty but still with major epic elements.
This book introduces some new major characters in addition to us seeing some familiar faces but the arc count remains modest so each of the main sequences gets the time it needs to be fully and satisfyingly developed.
Its impressive for an author so associated with post-apocalyptic fiction to deliver such a strong entry in the epic fantasy genre (though his sci-fi is also great). And of course given its DJ Molles the action scenes are absolutely top shelf.
A strong continuation to the series, highly recommended for anyone who likes their fantasy grounded and gritty but still with major epic elements.
August 10, 2024
The sequel to A Harvest of Ash & Blood is an excellent tale of survival and revenge in a mystic world where you never know who to trust.
Everyone has at least one secret they wish to keep. When you're the Queen of an Empire, that secret could get you killed.
When the Queen, Annistis, is imprisoned then escapes, a hefty bounty is put on her head for her return. People will stop at nothing to collect.
An Orphan named Vera trying to learn her powers is spared from a horrific death by her executioner, Cargast. When she learns the truth about who she is, her personal mission is to help find the Queen before the others get to her. With the help of Cargast, Vera hones her skills and traverses the land searching for Annistis. As she puts the pieces together, she realizes she can't trust anyone.
Everyone has at least one secret they wish to keep. When you're the Queen of an Empire, that secret could get you killed.
When the Queen, Annistis, is imprisoned then escapes, a hefty bounty is put on her head for her return. People will stop at nothing to collect.
An Orphan named Vera trying to learn her powers is spared from a horrific death by her executioner, Cargast. When she learns the truth about who she is, her personal mission is to help find the Queen before the others get to her. With the help of Cargast, Vera hones her skills and traverses the land searching for Annistis. As she puts the pieces together, she realizes she can't trust anyone.
August 19, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! The story takes its time introducing new characters that fit into plot threads from the previous book. Molles expands the plot and depends the universe, and it's awesome to see it unfold. As he begins tying into where the last book left off I couldn't put it down. The first book was complete on its own, but gave glimpses of something bigger taking place. It was almost like a preamble to the main story.
As always with Molles, there are some moments that struck me deeply regarding my relationship to myself. The main character, Lochled, has a poignant conversation with a former enemy about self hatred and love that hit so close to home I had to put the book down (can't be shedding tears while reading a gory fantasy novel!). I really can't express how much I enjoyed the exploring of the universe he created. Even with what's in this novel, it still feels like he's only scratched the surface of the universe. The book ends with a fantastic turn that makes me so pumped for the next book.
As always with Molles, there are some moments that struck me deeply regarding my relationship to myself. The main character, Lochled, has a poignant conversation with a former enemy about self hatred and love that hit so close to home I had to put the book down (can't be shedding tears while reading a gory fantasy novel!). I really can't express how much I enjoyed the exploring of the universe he created. Even with what's in this novel, it still feels like he's only scratched the surface of the universe. The book ends with a fantastic turn that makes me so pumped for the next book.
August 7, 2024
This series is shaping up to be unlike any other fantasy series I have read. I find myself reading a lot more action/adventure/suspense/horror and I have to say, I was not disappointed! Fantasy military, alchemy, and magnificent world-building all come together to create a compelling story. I didn't want to put it down! Twist after twist, D.J. Molles writes in such a way that you are able to feel all of the emotions of the characters and see the inner workings of their minds, struggles, and triumphs. If you are a fan of action and suspense or military-style novels and want to try dipping your toes into fantasy, I would highly recommend. Can't wait for the future of this series!
August 9, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall, this was a great sequel to book one. I will say, though, if you're looking for classic Molles non-stop action, you won't get it in this one. This is more of a character driven plot than an action driven plot, and there's nothing wrong with that, as long as it's done well. And Molles does a fantastic job with it! We needed to know more about all these characters. The storylines of Annistis and Vera were my favorite, and I absolutely loved the ending with them! They are fantastic characters.
This was a great set up for book three, and I can't wait to see how it all ends!
Overall, this was a great sequel to book one. I will say, though, if you're looking for classic Molles non-stop action, you won't get it in this one. This is more of a character driven plot than an action driven plot, and there's nothing wrong with that, as long as it's done well. And Molles does a fantastic job with it! We needed to know more about all these characters. The storylines of Annistis and Vera were my favorite, and I absolutely loved the ending with them! They are fantastic characters.
This was a great set up for book three, and I can't wait to see how it all ends!
August 19, 2024
In Ashes of Eormun Book 2, Molles crafts a gripping continuation of the trilogy, seamlessly blending new characters with the familiar ones from the first book. The story plunges into the political intricacies of this richly detailed world, exploring themes of survival, power, and the loss of innocence. With vivid descriptions, visceral conflicts, and a deepening exploration of its characters—like Lochled, Rony, and the mysterious Queen Annistis—this sequel not only builds on its predecessor but also leaves readers eagerly awaiting the trilogy's conclusion.
Molles is the kind of author that just gets better the more he writes. Can't recommend this book enough!
Molles is the kind of author that just gets better the more he writes. Can't recommend this book enough!
August 10, 2024
I enjoyed this book quite a bit! Love how the beginning is a reverse of the first book (you’ll see when you read it), and it picks up where the first one left off. Molles does a great job of world building and creating a language for the world. I would say this one has less action than the previous one but we learn more about the characters and begin to understand why they are the way they are. Overall a solid second part in the Ashes of Eormun saga! Can’t wait to see where this goes and ready for the next one!!
January 3, 2025
Book 2 of The Ashes of Eormun series by DJ Molles, The Orphan and the Queen. “The Mad Queen” has been broken out of imprisonment by loyal followers. At the same time a young woman escapes certain death, yet finds herself bonded to a ghost from her past.
Across the ocean the Empires army is discovering the creatures they have come to harvest their magical powers from are not willing to give them up.
Across the ocean the Empires army is discovering the creatures they have come to harvest their magical powers from are not willing to give them up.
August 10, 2024
DJ knocks it out of the park in this sequel, giving incredible answers to questions I hadn't even considered while reading the first book. The secrets of Seekers and Leftland alike, the fleshing out of the world...the only disappointing thing is that this book ever comes to an end! I can't want for the next book
August 10, 2024
I was pulled in to the wonderful world of Leftland! The clash of cultures, the beautiful Ticker cities, Lochled with all his misplaced loyalties meeting Sunshine's true nature.
The thrill of 2 women escaping very different prisons and the risks they face before joining forces at the most dangerous time. I cannot wait to see what these two will face together.
This exceptional sequel to Harvest of Ash and Blood does something I don't see much; it may be better than the first!
September 13, 2024
Book is a bridge . Leaves you in a cliffhanger. You pick up from where the last left off and then are stuck hanging to finish the story line. Author as always is good at world building and character arcs.
January 4, 2025
Another great edition to a new world for Molles. His expansion into fantasy has not let down. This book’s pace is amazing, consistently keeping the story moving while building the world without letting either lack.
August 10, 2024
This man doesn’t miss. I haven’t read a bad book from him. This one is no exception. The pace, the action, the dialogue and everything flow really well. Doesn’t spare the gritty details of battle and everyday life. Highly recommend this and every book he’s authored. You will not be disappointed.
September 10, 2024
military fantasy
Less fairies and princesses than most fantasy books. Hwich is a good thing! Never read anything like it before. Highly recommended.
Less fairies and princesses than most fantasy books. Hwich is a good thing! Never read anything like it before. Highly recommended.
October 18, 2024
An exceptional continuation of the story!
July 8, 2025
What's next?
I enjoyed this new genre from the author. Good storyline and imagination which keeps you engaged and wants to find out more, through each turning page.
I enjoyed this new genre from the author. Good storyline and imagination which keeps you engaged and wants to find out more, through each turning page.
January 13, 2025
Exciting read!
True to form D.J Molles does not disappoint! I’ve read all of the Harden books and many of his other novels and keep coming back for more.
True to form D.J Molles does not disappoint! I’ve read all of the Harden books and many of his other novels and keep coming back for more.
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