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Ashes of Eormun #3
The Breath That Breaks the Stone
Enemies become allies, and comrades become blood rivals in this third installment and Season One finale of Ashes of Eormun.After increasing pressure from Kayna and Sunshine, Lochled has finally agreed to help save Leftland from the Fourth Crusade.
If only it were that simple.
Kayna discovers a dangerous new ability that threatens to consume her, while Lochled realizes that his plan has put him at odds with someone he doesn’t want to Rony Hirdman. But she’s not the same ignorant girl he left behind. She’s a sergeant now, and she’ll do whatever it takes to keep her squad alive–no matter who she has to kill.
And all the while, Annistis Fyrngelt is on her way, intent on recruiting the Fourth Crusade to help retake her throne. But if she’s going to have any chance of reaching Leftland, she’ll have to survive the treacherous maze of icebergs known as the Caldegrund Pass. And even if she makes it through, there’s a fleet of warships waiting to intercept her.
In charge of that fleet is none other than Morric Fyrngelt himself–her own cousin, and the man who stole her throne. They call him The Usurper, and many believe him to be an idiot, a coward, and a puppet for the Church of Alchemy.
But when Seeker Hilden Gladscar is assigned to accompany Morric on his mission to stop Annistis, the Seeker is shocked to discover that Morric is none of those things.
He does, however, have one fatal He might be the only honorable man in all of Eormun.
The tides of fate and history are pushing everyone toward a collision, and it is anyone’s guess who will be left standing.
______________________
The Breath That Breaks the Stone is book three in Ashes of Eormun, a grimdark epic fantasy series perfect for readers captivated by morally complex characters, unflinching depictions of war, the exploration of humanity's darker sides, and the unsettling thrill of political corruption.
Fans of Joe Abercrombie's First Law Trilogy, Andy Peloquin's Darkblade, Mark Lawrence's Prince of Thorns, and Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen should feel right at home while reading this series.
Ashes of Eormun, Season
A Harvest of Ash and Blood
The Orphan and the Queen
The Breath That Breaks the Stone
If only it were that simple.
Kayna discovers a dangerous new ability that threatens to consume her, while Lochled realizes that his plan has put him at odds with someone he doesn’t want to Rony Hirdman. But she’s not the same ignorant girl he left behind. She’s a sergeant now, and she’ll do whatever it takes to keep her squad alive–no matter who she has to kill.
And all the while, Annistis Fyrngelt is on her way, intent on recruiting the Fourth Crusade to help retake her throne. But if she’s going to have any chance of reaching Leftland, she’ll have to survive the treacherous maze of icebergs known as the Caldegrund Pass. And even if she makes it through, there’s a fleet of warships waiting to intercept her.
In charge of that fleet is none other than Morric Fyrngelt himself–her own cousin, and the man who stole her throne. They call him The Usurper, and many believe him to be an idiot, a coward, and a puppet for the Church of Alchemy.
But when Seeker Hilden Gladscar is assigned to accompany Morric on his mission to stop Annistis, the Seeker is shocked to discover that Morric is none of those things.
He does, however, have one fatal He might be the only honorable man in all of Eormun.
The tides of fate and history are pushing everyone toward a collision, and it is anyone’s guess who will be left standing.
______________________
The Breath That Breaks the Stone is book three in Ashes of Eormun, a grimdark epic fantasy series perfect for readers captivated by morally complex characters, unflinching depictions of war, the exploration of humanity's darker sides, and the unsettling thrill of political corruption.
Fans of Joe Abercrombie's First Law Trilogy, Andy Peloquin's Darkblade, Mark Lawrence's Prince of Thorns, and Steven Erikson's Malazan Book of the Fallen should feel right at home while reading this series.
Ashes of Eormun, Season
A Harvest of Ash and Blood
The Orphan and the Queen
The Breath That Breaks the Stone
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2024
13 people are currently reading
80 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 - 17 of 17 reviews
October 19, 2024
The Breath That Breaks the Stone is an epic continuation and so far my favorite book in the Ashes of Eormun series by D.J. Molles. From the first page to the last, this book had me on the edge of my seat, captivated by the intricate plot, morally complex characters, and the unflinching portrayal of war.
Lochled and Rony’s evolution in this installment is nothing short of outstanding. Lochled transforms from a weary soldier into a passionate war hero, championing the Tickers—a marginalized race fighting for their survival. His journey of redemption is both inspiring and poignant, showcasing the complexities of loyalty in a world ravaged by conflict. Meanwhile, Rony emerges as a strong leader, navigating the challenges of her role while demonstrating her intelligence and battle tactics. It’s thrilling to witness her growth as she asserts her defiance against the established norms, making her character shine in this tumultuous landscape.
The alliance between Vera and Annistis adds another layer of intrigue and depth to the narrative. As Vera gains confidence in her abilities as a Seeker, Annistis grapples with her own powers and lineage. Their journey at sea, filled with action and camaraderie, beautifully illustrates the themes of female empowerment and resilience. The juxtaposition of their strengths and struggles creates a dynamic relationship that propels the story forward.
I was particularly impressed by the introduction of new characters that continued to enrich the plot and expand upon the world-building and political intrigue. Also, the continued evolution of the Tickers as they reclaim their land from oppression adds a dynamic shift to the narrative, reinforcing the themes of resistance and solidarity.
The final battle scene was an epic climax that had my emotions running high. The stakes felt monumental, and the intricate choreography of the battles, coupled with the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys, created a gripping experience that left me breathless. It’s undoubtedly one of my favorite parts of the book, showcasing Molles’s masterful storytelling.
With the richly developed world and characters, I’m fully invested in the series and eagerly anticipate what’s next. I can’t wait to see Annistis take back her throne and how all the other characters continue to grow and evolve in future installments. The Breath That Breaks the Stone is a thrilling and satisfying read that will resonate with fans of grimdark epic fantasy. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a story filled with complexity, action, and unforgettable characters!
Lochled and Rony’s evolution in this installment is nothing short of outstanding. Lochled transforms from a weary soldier into a passionate war hero, championing the Tickers—a marginalized race fighting for their survival. His journey of redemption is both inspiring and poignant, showcasing the complexities of loyalty in a world ravaged by conflict. Meanwhile, Rony emerges as a strong leader, navigating the challenges of her role while demonstrating her intelligence and battle tactics. It’s thrilling to witness her growth as she asserts her defiance against the established norms, making her character shine in this tumultuous landscape.
The alliance between Vera and Annistis adds another layer of intrigue and depth to the narrative. As Vera gains confidence in her abilities as a Seeker, Annistis grapples with her own powers and lineage. Their journey at sea, filled with action and camaraderie, beautifully illustrates the themes of female empowerment and resilience. The juxtaposition of their strengths and struggles creates a dynamic relationship that propels the story forward.
I was particularly impressed by the introduction of new characters that continued to enrich the plot and expand upon the world-building and political intrigue. Also, the continued evolution of the Tickers as they reclaim their land from oppression adds a dynamic shift to the narrative, reinforcing the themes of resistance and solidarity.
The final battle scene was an epic climax that had my emotions running high. The stakes felt monumental, and the intricate choreography of the battles, coupled with the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys, created a gripping experience that left me breathless. It’s undoubtedly one of my favorite parts of the book, showcasing Molles’s masterful storytelling.
With the richly developed world and characters, I’m fully invested in the series and eagerly anticipate what’s next. I can’t wait to see Annistis take back her throne and how all the other characters continue to grow and evolve in future installments. The Breath That Breaks the Stone is a thrilling and satisfying read that will resonate with fans of grimdark epic fantasy. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a story filled with complexity, action, and unforgettable characters!
October 20, 2024
How did I forget to review this book?
A rhetorical question. My brain is like the static of an out-of-reach radio station.
I read an eARC of this book way back in the summer, right after having read book 2. I loved all 3 books in this series (so far!) equally. It is beyond a doubt one of my favorite fantasy series ever. Scratch that. One of my favorite series across all genres.
You'll definitely want to read them in order. But do read them!
I swear my reviews for books 1 and 2 are coherent. Check those out if in doubt about reading this series, because all the praise applies to this book, as well.
*Huge thank you to the author and Tara for sending the eARC! And my apologies for flaking out and forgetting to post a review.*
A rhetorical question. My brain is like the static of an out-of-reach radio station.
I read an eARC of this book way back in the summer, right after having read book 2. I loved all 3 books in this series (so far!) equally. It is beyond a doubt one of my favorite fantasy series ever. Scratch that. One of my favorite series across all genres.
You'll definitely want to read them in order. But do read them!
I swear my reviews for books 1 and 2 are coherent. Check those out if in doubt about reading this series, because all the praise applies to this book, as well.
*Huge thank you to the author and Tara for sending the eARC! And my apologies for flaking out and forgetting to post a review.*
March 7, 2025
Taking a bit of a "Game Of Thrones" turn with this 3rd book in the series...felt the plot meandered at times, but finished strong with a decent setup for the story to continue on in the next book. I look forward to it!
October 19, 2024
This third book returns to the intense warfare of the first book and its military campaign. Each perspective and side has its own insights and reasoning, but they're also all going to do whatever it takes to win, regardless of the consequences. Twists and turns abound, because life, let alone war, is messy and unpredictable. There's a lot of "How did it come to this?", especially by the end compared to how the series started, to where I can't write really much about the plot without a lot of spoilers. In the moment of reading it all feels so right and a natural progression of the choices made. There aren't any heroes here. There's only who's the best at killing the other side while minimizing their own losses.
Writing anything about this has been unusually difficult because I take so much visceral enjoyment from it. For that quality, it's definitely among the best ever for me, matched only by some very energetic music and all-action movies. It has its cerebral aspects, but the visceral dominates. It's an exceedingly thrilling feeling. For those who don't feel that, I don't know how the book would be, because that would be an entirely different experience from what I had. Qualia can be inexplicable at times, because even if the emotions could be perfectly conveyed, it doesn't matter if the receiver is incompatible. Unfortunately, much conflict arises from this.
This is the best of the series so far and my book of the year. More than that, in terms of sheer enjoyment, it may now be my second favorite fantasy series. It continues to do just about everything I could want. I haven't any complaints nor do I feel any need to criticize. The characters are great, and I especially like seeing how they develop through the choices they're forced to make. War leaves no one unchanged. This extends to the organizational level, where war makes for strange bedfellows. I continue to appreciate how transient and transactional the alliances are. It's very realpolitik. I don't believe that's how the world ought to be, but as with much else, it makes for wonderful fiction.
I eagerly await more from this series and hope that many more read it so that it reaches the level of popularity that it so rightfully deserves. I make no claims to objectivity. Reading this has helped me better understand those who zealously promote their favorite series, though only for those series which remain vastly unknown. If a series is great and also popular, then there's no mismatch. If I was told a year ago right before I was reading the first book that a self-published series would become one of my favorites of all time, I would've said that was exceedingly improbable. Yet, it happened, and not only once. Life really has its unexpected ways. Fortunately, this time it was serendipitous.
Writing anything about this has been unusually difficult because I take so much visceral enjoyment from it. For that quality, it's definitely among the best ever for me, matched only by some very energetic music and all-action movies. It has its cerebral aspects, but the visceral dominates. It's an exceedingly thrilling feeling. For those who don't feel that, I don't know how the book would be, because that would be an entirely different experience from what I had. Qualia can be inexplicable at times, because even if the emotions could be perfectly conveyed, it doesn't matter if the receiver is incompatible. Unfortunately, much conflict arises from this.
This is the best of the series so far and my book of the year. More than that, in terms of sheer enjoyment, it may now be my second favorite fantasy series. It continues to do just about everything I could want. I haven't any complaints nor do I feel any need to criticize. The characters are great, and I especially like seeing how they develop through the choices they're forced to make. War leaves no one unchanged. This extends to the organizational level, where war makes for strange bedfellows. I continue to appreciate how transient and transactional the alliances are. It's very realpolitik. I don't believe that's how the world ought to be, but as with much else, it makes for wonderful fiction.
I eagerly await more from this series and hope that many more read it so that it reaches the level of popularity that it so rightfully deserves. I make no claims to objectivity. Reading this has helped me better understand those who zealously promote their favorite series, though only for those series which remain vastly unknown. If a series is great and also popular, then there's no mismatch. If I was told a year ago right before I was reading the first book that a self-published series would become one of my favorites of all time, I would've said that was exceedingly improbable. Yet, it happened, and not only once. Life really has its unexpected ways. Fortunately, this time it was serendipitous.
September 4, 2024
Leftland has had quite enough, thank you very much much.
The way of the world is about to be flipped on its head in the Brannic Empire, and old and new heroes are stepping up and into those changes.
This series begins with the the 4th crusade made up of the military might of Eormun invading an alien land because of their richness in highly coveted resources: ash of the Ticker’s dead bodies, but now the Tickers are fighting back. In book two, Lochled becomes the battle strategist of a fledgling fighting force united to defend their lands at the cost of their moral and cultural purity. The Damned become a highly skilled fighting force even at the cost of becoming social outcasts.
New players are introduced, and the Mad Queen and her child “Seeker” deign to reach Leftland and convince the army to switch to her side as the rightful heir of the Brannic Empire. But the Church of Alchemy can’t let that happen, and the Seekers are now in secretive revolt against the same church. They can’t let Annistis regain the throne and upset their own well-laid and executed plans.
In book three we have our two antiheroes, Lochled and Runt settling into their new roles because it’s do or die (badly). Many other pieces join the board in this captivating and highly detailed continuation of an amazing fantasy story, and I cackled with inner glee as the action scenes unfolded. I had to reread entire sections to truly appreciate the intricacies of the naval battles, the battle machines in action, the metaphysical battles, and the masterful storytelling. What an absolute delight this whole series has been, and the details are so well thought out, they made me stop and say “that’s ingenious!”
Great job, D.J. Molles, with absolutely everything, and I highly recommend this third book to all who enjoy those moments of awe at reading a perfectly described moment that shows the author’s joy and mastery of his craft. 5 pintel-sniffin stars, cully!
The way of the world is about to be flipped on its head in the Brannic Empire, and old and new heroes are stepping up and into those changes.
This series begins with the the 4th crusade made up of the military might of Eormun invading an alien land because of their richness in highly coveted resources: ash of the Ticker’s dead bodies, but now the Tickers are fighting back. In book two, Lochled becomes the battle strategist of a fledgling fighting force united to defend their lands at the cost of their moral and cultural purity. The Damned become a highly skilled fighting force even at the cost of becoming social outcasts.
New players are introduced, and the Mad Queen and her child “Seeker” deign to reach Leftland and convince the army to switch to her side as the rightful heir of the Brannic Empire. But the Church of Alchemy can’t let that happen, and the Seekers are now in secretive revolt against the same church. They can’t let Annistis regain the throne and upset their own well-laid and executed plans.
In book three we have our two antiheroes, Lochled and Runt settling into their new roles because it’s do or die (badly). Many other pieces join the board in this captivating and highly detailed continuation of an amazing fantasy story, and I cackled with inner glee as the action scenes unfolded. I had to reread entire sections to truly appreciate the intricacies of the naval battles, the battle machines in action, the metaphysical battles, and the masterful storytelling. What an absolute delight this whole series has been, and the details are so well thought out, they made me stop and say “that’s ingenious!”
Great job, D.J. Molles, with absolutely everything, and I highly recommend this third book to all who enjoy those moments of awe at reading a perfectly described moment that shows the author’s joy and mastery of his craft. 5 pintel-sniffin stars, cully!
September 4, 2024
The third installment of the Ashes of Eormun series is full of action from page one! The Fourth Crusade is in full swing, and the depictions of war are incredible. Watch as the characters learn more about their special abilities and how they apply them. I'm not sure how DJ Molles does it, but I hope he keeps going! This story still has so much to tell!
September 5, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Book 3 did not disappoint! This was classic Molles...lots of non-stop action and gore, pacing was great, and the story always held my attention. The characters continue to grow, and Annistis and Vera are still my favorites! I loved seeing Annistis in action again. Looking forward to seeing Annistis fight for her empire!
Book 3 did not disappoint! This was classic Molles...lots of non-stop action and gore, pacing was great, and the story always held my attention. The characters continue to grow, and Annistis and Vera are still my favorites! I loved seeing Annistis in action again. Looking forward to seeing Annistis fight for her empire!
October 22, 2024
A fantastic read
DJ Molles knows how to create fantastical but relatable worlds, and well thought out characters. I've been a fan since his first book and thoroughly enjoy all he writes. Also nice to know he is a fellow North Carolinian! Thus series is a page turner and I can't wait for the next trilogy
DJ Molles knows how to create fantastical but relatable worlds, and well thought out characters. I've been a fan since his first book and thoroughly enjoy all he writes. Also nice to know he is a fellow North Carolinian! Thus series is a page turner and I can't wait for the next trilogy
September 7, 2024
(ARC reader review) I cannot get enough of this series! I am HOOKED. Action and emotion and straight up bad-assery. I had thoroughly enjoyed this first leg of the series and am anxiously (very anxiously) waiting to see where the next leg falls.
I would highly recommend!
I would highly recommend!
September 25, 2024
couldn’t put it down
I purchased the first book on a whim. However I couldn’t put them down. I fell in love with the characters and the story. I would encourage anyone who likes developed characters and imagery of new world to give them a try.
I purchased the first book on a whim. However I couldn’t put them down. I fell in love with the characters and the story. I would encourage anyone who likes developed characters and imagery of new world to give them a try.
October 9, 2024
Another excellent addition to a series that just keeps getting better and better. The plot moves along quickly and the tension continues to build. The ending is satisfying but it seems more like the close of a chapter of the larger story arc, so I'm hopeful that there will be more to come.
October 26, 2024
Well done series!
Big fan of D.J. Molles, and this series does not disappoint. Molles strikes the balance of a captivating fantasy world and human traits that make characters relatable and believable. Excellent read!
Big fan of D.J. Molles, and this series does not disappoint. Molles strikes the balance of a captivating fantasy world and human traits that make characters relatable and believable. Excellent read!
September 24, 2024
Great world building. Only disappointed that it wasn’t the last book…
October 27, 2024
The unexpected character developments that mold the last book into the best in the series.
January 4, 2025
Wow. Great Fantasy series by DJ Molles. Book 3 The Breath that Breaks the Stone is an exciting sequel. The horror of war, secret deals, and the dark themes lead to a fun read.
October 15, 2024
Dark characters meet in combat. Characters change and the war takes an unexpected turn as characters develop new skills that change everything! Explicit combat. New rules changing everything.
Excellent character development and combat scenes. This isn't a bad read.
Excellent character development and combat scenes. This isn't a bad read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews