Ashes of Betrayal

The Enforcer's Bride

by Jayne Castel

From the ashes of betrayal rises a love with the power to change everything. An assassin in disgrace. An enforcer gone rogue. A destiny that binds them. Dive into the thrilling conclusion of The Enforcer’s Bride Fantasy Romance duology.

Bree was once the Raven Queen’s assassin—a ruthless killer with the blood of many on her hands. However, when she returns home after her last mission, she finds herself sidelined … and it’s not long before the chilling truth settles upon her.

She doesn’t belong in Sheehallion any longer.

Nor can she forget the man she left behind in Albia.

Meanwhile, her husband, Cailean, is haunted by his own demons. His illustrious career is destroyed, and his brief and disastrous marriage to Bree has forced him to confront the ghosts he's long avoided.

But betrayal isn’t enough to keep husband and wife apart—not when Bree makes a decision that propels her on a dangerous journey across the wilds of Albia.

A journey that brings her straight to Cailean.

Outlander meets The Witcher and Throne of Glass. ASHES OF BETRAYAL is Book Two in a Fantasy Romance duology with enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn delicious spice, redemption, and a dark and lush world inspired by Celtic myth.

Note: ASHES OF BETRAYAL is Book Two of a duology (with a storyline that spans both novels) that begins with BOUND BY DECEPTION. It's not recommended to dive into this story without reading Book One first.

Genres: Fantasy, Fae, Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Fantasy Romance, Romantasy, Historical Fiction

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 5, 2024

About the author

Multi-award-winning author Jayne Castel writes epic Historical and Fantasy Romance. Her vibrant characters, richly researched historical settings and action-packed adventure romance transport readers to forgotten times and imaginary worlds.

Jayne is the author of a number of best-selling series. In love with all things Scottish, she writes romances set in both Dark Ages and Medieval Scotland.

When she's not writing, Jayne is reading (and re-reading) her favorite authors, cooking Italian feasts, and going on long walks with her husband. She's from New Zealand, but now lives in Edinburgh, Scotland.

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Reviews

[Shalaina · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one gave me what I wanted when it came to the romance but around 50% I started to feel like the inner dialogue and descriptions were getting a lil boring. I enjoyed book 1 more.

[Katherine Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

More of a 3.5 rating. Was good reading about Bree and Chilean, however felt a bit less developed and rushed. Still a good read and I look forward to reading the Queen and the Half-blood.

[Barbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book: Ashes of Betrayal
Author: Jayne Castel
Series: The Enforcer’s Bride #2
Release Date: December 5, 2024
Publisher: Winter Mist Press
Print Length: 302 Pages
Overall Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flags

This book takes off where book one’s cliffhanger ended. Bree Fellshadow is broken-hearted being apart from her estranged husband, who is her people’s the Shee’s true enemy the Marav. The King's enforcer was Cailean mac Brochan. His career is now over after being the only survivor of the annihilation by a surprise attack by the Shee. As his King would put him under suspicion. Especially since his son, the prince, who was the King's only heir was also slaughtered by the Shee. On top of that he feels so betrayed by his wife who turns out to be a Shee spy!

Bree is back home with her people in Sheehallion and feels totally isolated. As she had been the Raven Queen’s assassin for two centuries and was never comfortable being a spy. Afterall she was a trained assassin with no friends. However now she has to tell the Raven Queen a pack of lies protecting her estranged husband, their natural enemy. This was the King’s enforcer now they all think he is dead. Since all his men died including the King’s son by the Shee in a surprise attack! It would look like he was behind this attack as he was the only one who survived. So now he was a rogue warrior and had his own ghosts of the past. Now he was looking for the man who destroyed his family twenty years ago!

However Cailean mac Brochan wasn’t expecting to see his spy wife Bree Fellshadow ever again who has ruined his life and his career! Bree knew trying to get him back would not be an easy task but one she was willing to fight for. Except if her evil Shee Queen discovers she has left the Sheehallion realm without her permission there would be a target on her back. She knows Cailean cares for her because he protected her by sending her back to her realm. He could have easily sent her to his own King who would have executed her in a heartbeat!

Will Cailean ever forgive Bree and realize they are on the same side? Shall he ever open his heart and realize that Bree is the woman he loves? Read and discover Bree and Cailean’s true destiny. In a fast paced, magical, romantasy that shouldn’t be missed.

Jayne Castel pens the second part of her romantasy which was so much fun to read. It has all the elements fantasy readers love. Wonderful world building, dramatic dialogue, amazing banter, detailed storylines, fascinating characters and lots of spice! An enemies to lovers trope that fantasy readers absolutely love! Plus it is full of deception, treachery, war, vengeance, retribution, passion and love. A book fantasy and celtic mythology readers don’t want to miss. I am thrilled Ms. Castel plans on diving more into the fantasy genre which is a favorite genre of mine. I look forward to reading “The Queen and the Half-Blood” in another divine duology!

Disclaimer: I received a free advance review copy from the publisher for a fair and honest review. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog. All words, ideas and thoughts are my own.

[Shaylene · Rating 4 out of 5]

I came across the first book on a whim, not knowing what I was going to be getting myself into. When I saw this was pretty much like Outlander, I figured I'd try this out. And I was pleasantly surprised.

The enemies to lovers was executed well in the first book. There was as slow burn that made it all the more sweeter as Bree and Caelian fell for each other even though Bree deceived him. When she disguised herself to hide the fact she was actually his enemy, I was all in for some juicy intrigue. It had me rubbing my hands together in anticipation.

The first book ended with Bree going back to her world with her people. I knew that Caelian and Bree's reunion wouldn't take that long. They would make their way back to each other soon. Of course, at some point they do reunite and things are out in the open for both of them.

This time around, the masks are off for Bree and Caelian. They discuss Bree's betrayal and how to move forward. They even talk about what is in their hearts by being vulnerable, letting down their walls to see underneath.

I was glad my earlier critique of Bree and Caelian needing more depth was addressed here. You see how Bree discusses her regrets and how Caelian goes on a revenge quest based on his past. Although I was a little perplexed with how his side quest fit in with the rest of the plot, I did see the character development.

Caelian's quest involved him hunting a man from his past. While it was great added depth to his character, it felt like filler. The bigger plot of the Shee and Marav war felt like it pushed aside a bit. So I didn't see the bigger significance of Caelian taking revenge. It seemed like the story veered off course that way.

Even then, I was frustrated with Caelian's revenge scheme because of the result. Without spoiling too much, let's just say that I was glad he did what he did because sexual assault shouldn't be forgiven no matter how long it's been. What happened was violent and I don't condone that either but this world calls for things like this. Nonetheless, I was happy that there was depth with Caelian confronting his feelings even though I wish there was more to it.

Honestly, if this had been a longer book and series, I would've wanted more resolution of some things. For instance, the war felt brief and was over pretty quickly. There were a few deaths but it felt like I blinked and things happened. Even the complications of characters reconciling felt too easy and fast. In bigger books, there's usually a lot of angst because lets the reader dwell on what the character is feeling. I know for some of these indie books, they sometimes don't have as much substance. This one had some potent substance but it felt like it could've used more.

It was curious though to see that the war didn't actually seem to be quite over yet. I thought the author would have another duology in the world but with different characters. Even though I had my little criticisms of this, I would be happy to see more from this author.

[Jaclyn B. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok, so this one I wasn't as big a fan of, after having really enjoyed this first one. It felt like a bit of an "in-between" book, or a placeholder. That being said, some things I really enjoyed about it were:

-- Communication. Obviously there was going to be some tension and conflict when Bree found Cailean. He tried to ignore her, but once they were ready to talk, they actually talked things through and it wasn't drawn out.

-- Tivesheh! I was so glad Bree was able to talk to animals again and got to journey with her white stag once more.

-- Her return to Sheehalion, and how cold her greeting from Mor was definitely showed the capricious nature of the Shee ruler but also made Bree's decision all the easier. Her brother and her getting a little bit of a breakthrough in their relationship, I was sad for her to have to leave him behind.

The introduction to the world, Bree's experience in being turned from one of the Shee into a Marav and how different being in the two bodies was for her; these were all things that made me fall in love with the first one.

Being in Albia, the "mortal" side of the veil, isn't so different for Bree. She's went on so many missions for Mor, and lived for hundreds of years. So other than the intense smells - especially to a Shee nose - and iron's effects on her, it felt like Bree's experience wasn't as enlightening this time around.

Their quest - and it's end - seemed to lack some detail. I felt like it was mainly checking in at taverns in different cities, and then with how quickly he was dealt with, there wasn't much build up to get me invested. Cailean had waited 20 years for revenge, but it wasn't a burning, constant presence in his life. It was almost like an after thought.

Maybe it was meant to be a less thought out quest for vengeance, something to do now that he was no longer the chief enforcer. Especially with how it ends up impacting his sister's life, for the worse.

Bree and Cailean getting back together was great, I was so glad they got to have those moments. I thought, for the gathering of armies, that there would be more fighting, but this was resolved rather quickly also with the King's resounding defeat.

That being said - I am so looking forward to the next duology. There's more from this world I'd like to explore, and I can't wait to see more from Lara. The new queen will have her hands full with the war that seems to be waiting on her doorstep.

I received an ARC through BookSirens, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.

[Mae of Scotland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the fabulous Jayne Castel for giving me the opportunity to receive a digital ARC of her stunning conclusion of the Enforcer’s Bride Duology series, Ashes of Betrayal.

Ashes of Betrayal is a gripping romantasy immersing you into a plot full of danger, intense action, sizzling tensions, and a heart-warming redemption romance between two hearts caught up in a clash between humans and fae. Jayne Castel’s lush descriptive writing, engrossing storytelling style that is full of humour, and sizzling tension between lover interests make her one of my must-buy authors. I was on the edge of my seat for this book with the ‘will they, won’t they’ dynamic of Cailean and Bree’s relationship – the line of hate and love blurred so much I felt my heart was in my mouth the whole book.

Her masterful knowledge of Scotland’s ancient culture and history is used to craft a marvelous fantasy world of human and fae realms, which are bound in ancient conflict between their worlds. Jayne’s world-building is creative and unique in her Bound by Deception and Ashes of Betrayal around the Shee (fae) and Marav (human). I spent reading this book delighted seeing all the little nods and creative takes of mythical creatures and legends from across Scotland’s diverse, rich culture and dramatic, beautiful landscape.

Jayne Castel delves further into the hearts of Bree and Cailean in Ashes of Betrayal. She crafted poignant transformative character journeys for them set within the broader conflict that puts the reader through the wringer. I loved getting to know Cailean and Bree on a deeper level in this book as their true selves—no secrets, facades, or walls between them. Things were intense and steamy in book one with their undeniable burning hot chemistry. They didn’t get much chance to bond emotionally and share their life stories openly and honestly in Book 1. Reforging their relationship with forgiveness, sacrifice, and acceptance, coming to terms with the fact they belong together after going through hell and back through for each other.

A fascinating, heart-wrenching story, full of sparking banter and stabby romance that shows the road to true love is never smooth or straightforward; it is full of threats, revenge, betrayals, and sparks flying. If you love Celtic mythology, romantasy, and epic enemies-to-lovers plots, you definitely need to add The Enforcer’s Bride to your TBR. This series is the perfect way to start your addiction to Jayne Castel’s books.

[Ann Gonzalez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to be able to read the second part of this duology. Ashes of Betrayal picks up where The Enforcer's Wife ends so you must read that book first. I don't normally read Romantic Fantasy, but made an exception because this author is beyond talented and never disappoints.
This book is just as intense as book one. The whole story is fast paced and it's hard to put down. I would have read it in one sitting had I not had so much going on.
Again, as in part one, Bree and Cailean have that connection they can't deny. The passion between them is steamy and passionate. There is more than one battle they are fighting. Definitely not a sweet, clean read.
Bree and Cailean were so well-written in part one and they both experienced growth throughout book two. Both had a past to face and difficult decisions to make for a future together. Together were able to do that and look towards a future together even though it is difficult for a Shee to be with a Marav.
It is hard doing a review when I don't want to give away any part of the book. So let me just say the Shee and Marav are at war in Albia and Bree and Cailean have more that just that battle ahead of them.
Great book! Can't wait for Lara's story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cristal Vzqz · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars!

What can I say after the first book I was excited to read this sequel!

"Ashes of Betrayal" by Jayne Castel is a captivating fantasy romance that masterfully weaves together elements of Scottish history and mythology. This sequel to "The Enforcer's Bride" follows Bree on a perilous journey to reclaim her husband, Cailean, as they discover the depths of their emotions!

Castel's world-building is nothing short of enchanting, transporting readers to a realm of magic and mystery. The slow-burn romance between Bree and Cailean is expertly crafted, allowing their complex and deeply emotional connection to simmer and build throughout the narrative.

Cailean, in particular, is a standout character, with a richly detailed backstory that informs his every action. His chemistry with Bree is undeniable, and their relationship is a beautiful exploration of the transformative power of love and forgiveness.

While "Ashes of Betrayal" is undoubtedly an adult fantasy, the spicy content is tastefully done and never feels gratuitous. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of fantasy romance, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a compelling, emotionally resonant story.

Rating: 5/5 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angela Brannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second installment of The Enforcer's Bride duology, Ashes of Betrayal, is truly an epic saga of love and war that took my breath away. Bree and Cailean have both been set adrift from their past lives and are roaming the land. Bree is looking for Cailean to reunite, while Cailean is on a bitter path of revenge that will end in tragedy.

I could not put this book down as I followed their tale. Not only must they struggle to find each other and make peace with their love and their pasts, but Cailean's world explodes around them into a vicious war between their people. I was fascinated watching as loyalties were tested and alliances formed while the political landscape became a landmine.

This story will really tug at your heartstrings as tragedy and heartbreak abound, and past enemies of both Bree and Cailean resurface to even old scores. I love how Jayne Castel took this story way beyond a simple tale of reunion and reconciliation into a tale of two kingdoms at war. The ending was both satisfying and heartbreaking, and set the stage for follow up stories of the other characters. I highly recommend this duology and can't wait to see what other stories Jayne Castel writes about this world and these characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, there is so much going on in this story. When Bree returns to Sheehallion, Queen Mor is not pleased that she has returned so soon. Although Bree states that her mission was compromised, the queen dismisses her and Bree becomes persona non grata. Meanwhile, Cailean has to deal with what he finds when he returns to camp after seeing Bree depart. Neither one is prepared for the intensity of feelings that they experience. An angry Cailean heads north, and Bree decides that she no longer belongs in Sheehallion and goes searching for her husband. The reunion does not go well. When Cailean finds himself surrounded and battling for his life, Bree steps in and one thing leads to another, passion flares and they start again. This story is filled with raw emotions, mistakes, regrets, battles, heartache, the unexpected, and steam. Danger abounds and there are many near misses and narrow escapes. But in the end, Bree and Cailean are together serving their monarch, gathering and training troops, and preparing for battles to come. This story will have your heart breaking, your pulse galloping, and your attention riveted from beginning to end. It is exciting, action packed, emotionally demanding and very difficult to put down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lumie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Book Sirens and Jayne Castel for the ARC.

Plot 4/5
Characters 4.25/5

Ending 3.75/5
Interest 4/5

Overall 4/5

-Similar to the first book, there were some really good elements which made me read this book in a single sitting. Although, there were aspects which kind of bored me so I had my moments where I drifted away from the book and didn’t perfectly pay attention to everything that was going on. I still love how it followed the first book really well and I liked the plot evolution without it completely going an opposite direction.

-I still really liked the characters. I still don’t have a very good connection to either of them but I was rooting for them to be happily together. I liked the fact that they weren’t already happily together form the start and that there was a little quirk in their relationship, it forgave the faster burn.

-Unfortunately, the ending didn’t intrigue me as much as I’d hoped. I wasn’t paying as much attention as I should have. But I am glad I was able to read this sequel and see the characters develop and see the story through. I would read more from this author.

[Lynn P · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the end of Bound by Deception, the first book in The Enforcer’s Bride duology, I could not imagine how the author could surpass and proceed with Bree and Cailean’s relationship. But in Ashes of Betrayal the Enforcer’s Bride’s second book, the author brings the reader on a rollercoaster ride that reaches an interesting conclusion.

Both characters have so much to learn about themselves, each other and must decide if the marriage can survive or if they should go their separate ways. Jayne Castel has a way to make her characters “real”. There were so many highs and lows just in their relationship. Then there is the political fall out with the Raven Queen which brings its own set of problems.

As with all of Jayne Castel’s books I could not put it down. She places you in the world which is set in old Scotland surrounded with Celtic mythology.

If you like romantic books with an HEA set in old Scotland, then this is a must read. I highly recommend this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lyn Brownlie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliantly done! I loved it
This is the continuation and the completion of The Enforcer’s Bride story and WOW, it did not disappoint.
I enjoyed every minute of it - from the pace of the storyline, the magical beings both good and bad to all of the characters and the action throughout in this wonderfully built world that Jayne has created.
Not to miss mentioning the amazing chemistry between the two main characters.
Will Cailean and Bree’s inevitable reunion be as I’d envisioned with the warrior eventually giving in to his feelings?
Or will he choose unwisely and be forever lonely?
Not wanting my review to give anything away from this amazing story that captured my interest from the very first chapter in book one, follow along with them on their journey to discover what happens.
You’ll love every breathtaking detail of it, I did.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Rena Petroutsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

At last the 2d part of the brand new Romantic Fantasy duology of Jayne's Castel is finally here.The first part introduced Bree,the Raven Queen's assassin, tasked to spy on the mortal High King by marrying his chief- enforcer Cailean.What starts out as an arrangement, turns into attraction and ends with a betrayal. Now both Bree and Cailean have to struggle with every aspect of their lives and  balance  the continual demands of their monarchs and their own desire for control and freedom. The stakes are high, there is emotional physical intellectual conflict all along.
I loved Jayne Castel's writing style, the way she created a richly illustrated fantasy world filled with Celtic lore and mythology was absolutely amazing! This story was dark, atmospheric and so intriguing,that will grip your attention, imagination and heart from beginning to end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Hannah B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ashes of Betrayal was a captivating read that kept me fully engaged and eagerly turning its pages. I received an ARC of this book and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts.

Jayne Castel is a talented storyteller who wonderfully brought her characters to life. I’ve really enjoyed her step into fantasy with this series, and it’s without a doubt my new favorite of hers!

Now that Bree knows what it is to have loved and lost, she has a singular drive to fix what was broken. I loved how determined she was and how she set out after the problem and remained undeterred by any setbacks. Cailean didn’t make it easy, and was truly a tough nut to crack. I enjoyed that this book focused more on the emotional side of their journey.

I highly recommend Ashes of Betrayal as a griping story full of emotion and enchantment. I eagerly await the next book in the series focusing on Lara. I can’t wait to see how her story unfolds!

[MyRomanceHasNoLimits · Rating 5 out of 5]

“How old are you, Bree?” Her lips lifted at the corners as if she’d been expecting him to ask this eventually. “Three hundred and two.” Cailean straightened up, something clenching deep in his chest.

“I want to grow old with you, Cailean mac Brochan … to let the years carve lines upon my face. In Sheehallion, it’s eternal spring, but Albia has seasons … and if I were Marav, my life would be like that too. Aye, it’ll be brief, but it’ll be beautiful.”

Hope restored in Fantasy Romance, high in fantasy and romance.

I should not be happy that so many historical romance authors have been writing fantasy romance instead, but I am. This duology restored my hope in this subgenre of romance.

This author's fantasy romance is so good. I'm really in a medieval land with fae and magic. With a grumpy x grumpier human warlock and fae assassin.

🍆🍆🍆/5 (vanilla type but the hot kind, cuz he's Scottish inspired)

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the continuing story of Bree and Cailean's journey through self-discovery and love. I recommend reading the first book before this one.

The 14th-century highlands provide the inspiration for the myth, legend, and flora of this story, which is set in the fantasy world of Albia and Sheehallion.
In this story, both lovers must face the truth about themselves and their past. Bree, no longer the Queen's favorite, questions her loyalty to her people and her role in the upcoming clash of two worlds. Cailean must face his failures and a past that hardens his heart against connection and love. Journeying across a land preparing for war, the two lovers reunite. Through their struggles, they realize that together they are stronger and what they would sacrifice for true love.

[Cherie S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revenge, Betrayals, Decisions, Fantasy Extraordinaire:
Bree and Cailean were caught between two different worlds, but in this book that will soon change but not without plenty of emotional and physical battles to conquer. Their journey was certainly not smooth or simple. Fireworks spark and Ingnite in more ways than one.
I truly enjoyed this magical realm they travel through with wonderfully fascinating creatures. 
The author's imagination is fantastic, and I was completely engrossed in this fast-paced gripping story of two intriguing characters that go through hell and finally realizing they belong together
Mature Advisory
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.

[Gg Tames · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! What a book!! I loved, loved, LOVED it!! The plot was intriguing, suspenseful and full of wit and charm. I loved the characters, particularly the protagonists, and how they evolved over the course of the two books. I particularly enjoyed how they came to become a real couple and how their relationship fused into an unbreakable bond. I have to say, I read the book, read the first book again after I finished the second part, then read the second book again!! I've read almost all of Jayne's book, and these two are definitely favorites. I wish there would be more stories in this world. I think Gil, Lara, Mirren and Torran deserve their own stories, and I would like to see Mor get her dues. Bring them on Jayne!!

[Daniela · Rating 4 out of 5]

(inglés). (Explícito). Me gustó mucho. Todo el libro se sintió como un epílogo largo donde los personajes se están preparando para vivir su final feliz. Y en realidad sí logran tener un nuevo comienzo a lado del otro, con Bree aceptando que ya no es como era antes y Cailean sintiendo la libertad de decidir sus acciones y considerarse digno de segundas oportunidades como Bree. Tiene un final abierto y me quedé feliz con como se quedaron las cosas, incluso con Mor, la Raven Queen, si haber atacado otro lugar y ganar más territorio en Albia, y al final también comprendí la decisión de Bree. Me gustó mucho el inicio y el cómo Bree y Cailean se reencontraron.
Narrado en tercera persona y ofrece los puntos de vista de los protagonistas.

[Fiona · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic second book and the conclusion of Bree and Chileans story. Jayne has continued her fantastic writing and story telling in this book too. The book is hard to put down right from the start, it is fast moving, an intense read but also makes you feel as if you too are right there in the story. We saw changes in both characters in book one and in two we see further growth and understanding between them. They face many hard challenges and decisions together that will affect there future and the future they are trying to build together. A great read !.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[K M W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bree and Cailean will send you for a ride. Although, make sure you’ve read book one! You will love some and hate some, but that’s what helps make this book so good. The world flows with interest and dive further into the characters. I thought it had a great ending, and an even better beginning and middle! Jayne Castel does a wondrous job with this book and painting the story, capping off the duology in a delightful way. The story will take you up and down and all around with intrigue and some mature scenes. If you like your fantasy a little dark and not fade to black, you’ll love this duology! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Angela Pearse · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome follow-up to Bound by Deception with Bree and Cailean's story reaching its epic conclusion. I enjoyed the push and pull between these two in the first book and seeing them iron out there differences here was heartwarming. The world building and elemental aspects are topnotch, and I loved the shared sleeping nook scene. Forced proximity with furs is a big thing in both these books and I'm here for it 😍

Highly recommend the Enforcer's Bride duology if you enjoy fantasy romance and Outlander.

[Cody Marie Phoenix · Rating 5 out of 5]

This duology has been quite the ride. Ashes of Betrayal is packed full of action to march the drama, and the characters have your head whipping back and forth. I particularly like the chief-enforcer myself, but Bree is the type of strong female character I like to read about. I hope the plotline continues as there are a couple of questions left unanswered in my opinion, but don't let the stop you from reading this High Fantasy duo!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Roger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ashes of Betrayal: A Fantasy Romance (The Enforcer's Bride Book 2), my second read from author Jayne Castel, 328-pages of Romantic Fantasy, the second book of a duology. My wife has been reading Jayne Castel for years. With more than 80 books published and my wife as a fan I look forward to reading more from this this author. “I received a Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).

[Jess Bohanick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this duology! Bree going back to Cailean, giving up her home, doing everything to find him. I loved all the different creatures, definitely gave some Witcher vibes, mixed with Outlander. Ate it up! I'm so invested in this world now!

It was completely enthralling and took a unique spin on Celtic lore and the standing stones. The worldbuilding was built into the story, which flowed to the point my coffee got cold, as it was utterly forgotten as I continued to be entranced by the pages. I need to read everything by this author now!

[Jojo · Rating 1 out of 5]

It so hard to describe how bad this book was. It feels like the author was trying to insert too many plots but none of them had any sort of proper build up and the conclusions of them were anticlimactic or did not make any sense. All of the characters just did things without much discussion or thinking and any disagreement we're resolved in few sentences without much of a fight it pushback. If someone would ask me to describe the plot I could confidently say there is none. The 1st book had potential but subsequently it just feels flat.

[Jewel Carrie Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful book continuing the story of characters in the first novel. The plot and battle scenes were great. I also enjoyed the inclusion of both Cailean's and Bree's family members as characters.

My only reservation is that this book is marketed as slow-burn, but Cailean seemed to get over his anger toward Bree's betrayal from the first book too quickly which in turned allowed their romance to move back to normal (Dare I say, better than normal?) too fast.

The dog is still my favorite character.

I received this book for free with no expectation for a favorable review.

[Luminea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed the second book of this duology even more than the first!

Finally, we get to see the softer side of Cailean, and it was wonderful to finally understand his backstory. Bree is just as passionate and kickass as ever in her Shee form.

The bonds of family, and found family are strong themes in this book, and sometimes take surprising paths. There are several secondary characters who I hope to see more of in the next duology set in Albia.

I am obsessed with this fantasy world, and am looking forward to reading Lara's story next!

[Barbara Hanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cailean and Bree’s story continues: this is an action-packed adventure; Cailean is out for vengeance; Bree is looking for forgiveness and the Raven Queen is moving against the Morvan High King.
The story moves at a quick pace, romance is secondary to all the action. This is a fantastic duology and I was pleased to see more is coming and I am impatiently looking forward to the next book.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an ARC copy of the book.