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Midnight Embers
In Midnight Embers, the gripping second installment of The Lumos Gems Chronicles, the aftermath of the bone dragon battle leaves our heroes reeling, their unity fractured and their world in turmoil.
Anthony, torn between his desire for adventure and the weight of responsibility, grapples with his place in the world, while Liam wrestles with haunting visions that threaten to consume him. As tensions escalate and shadows gather, a mysterious girl arrives, revealing she’s being pursued by another Lumos Gem monster—the Crimson Ravagers.
With the Water Stone stolen and a malevolent Noxenos on the rise, Anthony, Liam, and Katerina embark on a perilous quest to retrieve the Ice Dagger, Grimir—their only hope against the relentless Crimson Ravagers. But their journey takes a dark turn when they uncover a truth that forces them to align with old enemies, setting them on a collision course with destiny.
As alliances crumble and secrets unravel, they must confront their deepest fears and make sacrifices that will shape the fate of their world forever. Midnight Embers propels fantasy fans on an epic adventure filled with twists, revelations, and heart-stopping action that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Anthony, torn between his desire for adventure and the weight of responsibility, grapples with his place in the world, while Liam wrestles with haunting visions that threaten to consume him. As tensions escalate and shadows gather, a mysterious girl arrives, revealing she’s being pursued by another Lumos Gem monster—the Crimson Ravagers.
With the Water Stone stolen and a malevolent Noxenos on the rise, Anthony, Liam, and Katerina embark on a perilous quest to retrieve the Ice Dagger, Grimir—their only hope against the relentless Crimson Ravagers. But their journey takes a dark turn when they uncover a truth that forces them to align with old enemies, setting them on a collision course with destiny.
As alliances crumble and secrets unravel, they must confront their deepest fears and make sacrifices that will shape the fate of their world forever. Midnight Embers propels fantasy fans on an epic adventure filled with twists, revelations, and heart-stopping action that will keep them on the edge of their seats until the very end.
285 pages, Paperback
Published April 29, 2025
3 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
JoAnna McSpadden
4 books27 followersJoAnna McSpadden is a software developer by day and high fantasy writer by night – giving her a truly eclectic perspective of the world around us. She is a lifelong writer, creative adventurer, bibliophile, and avid fantasy board game enthusiast. When she’s not programming e-commerce websites for major household brands, she’s writing illustrative literary works of art that inspire readers to dream, embrace their authenticity, and defy the odds to go after whatever it is that they desire – even if it goes against the status quo. JoAnna lives in Kansas City with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 31, 2025
What a continuous thrill! Thrust into the chaos of the saved Trio by an unknown alley, who wields secrets and a one of the lumenos stones, their destinies are forver forged and changed. The trio is yet fraught with trails and tribulations. Family bonds are tested, impending loss and new found lineage shaping their fates as they all teeter on the brink to bring peace or devastation. The FMC & two MMC do not disappoint, their resolve, Resilience and stubbornness have you clinging to every turn. As the puzzle pieces come together while the plot continues to unravel, it doesn’t let up. Talk about fast flowing story telling, new found Family connections, more unknowns and shocking revaluations, yet revealing some suspicions I had early on. Leaving you with I knew it moments! Love when that happens… yet .. yet spiraling towards Another cliff!! Hanger!!
June 24, 2025
Wow. Where do I start? Midnight Embers is full of so many twists and turns that I didn't expect at all! If you didn't already fall in love with the characters in book one you will definitely fall in love (or hate) with them in book two.
I need to know more about Alexander (currently reading Monsters, Magic and Moonlight to learn more about him)! I love love love Liam and I still can't figure out what to think about Anthony! I loved learning more about the world and the history of these characters that they didn't even know. JoAnna McSpadden has written an amazing world and it's all coming together.
I still have soooo many questions and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!
I need to know more about Alexander (currently reading Monsters, Magic and Moonlight to learn more about him)! I love love love Liam and I still can't figure out what to think about Anthony! I loved learning more about the world and the history of these characters that they didn't even know. JoAnna McSpadden has written an amazing world and it's all coming together.
I still have soooo many questions and I cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!
August 6, 2025
Midnight Embers is book two and picks up shortly after Obsidian Tide’s brutal cliffhanger. The adventure continues in this captivating sequel where the danger has multiplied and romance is budding. The unexpected twists and turns had me losing sleep to continue reading.
The characters that I grew to love in book one were back adding in a few new characters that I now adore. I can’t wait to see where their journeys take them in book three, especially after that ending. I need answers!
Midnight Embers is definitely a must read for fantasy lovers.
The characters that I grew to love in book one were back adding in a few new characters that I now adore. I can’t wait to see where their journeys take them in book three, especially after that ending. I need answers!
Midnight Embers is definitely a must read for fantasy lovers.
July 23, 2025
I am in love with this series so far! Midnight Embers answered all of my questions left over from Obsidian Tide but also left me wanting to know so much more. The last third of this book is an all out race to get as much information as possible. One character's behavior can be very frustrating throughout the book but by the end the reasoning behind those actions is pulled together beautifully and makes for a really great journey. I'm excited to see where things will go in the next book!
May 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
ARC review. Thank you to JoAnna McSpadden for giving this to me.
I adored this book. This series gives me such joy and reminds me of older fantasy books that were so magical. Modern fantasy sometimes loses that spark but not this series. It’s just so good & don’t get me started on the ending. I can’t wait for the next book!
ARC review. Thank you to JoAnna McSpadden for giving this to me.
I adored this book. This series gives me such joy and reminds me of older fantasy books that were so magical. Modern fantasy sometimes loses that spark but not this series. It’s just so good & don’t get me started on the ending. I can’t wait for the next book!
April 29, 2025
After that wild cliffhanger in Obsidian Tide, I literally dove headfirst into Midnight Embers — and oh my stars, what a ride!!
This one started off slow and steady, but the moment it picked up pace… I was hooked. The hunt for all Lumos Gems had me on edge, flipping pages like there was no tomorrow.
Around halfway through? Total chaos— in the best possible way. New magical creatures, unexpected powers, and jaw-dropping reveals everywhere. The contrast between the fairy island and Sky city?? So lush, so vivid. JoAnna’s worldbuilding is next-level again in this book, and I was living for every beautifully imagined scene.
Let’s talk characters:
– Liam is still my favorite (yes, I’m loyal).
– Katerina is such a powerhouse— fierce, smart, grounded.
– Keya was a brilliant addition.
– Anthony? Meh. Didn’t vibe with him in this one, love.
– And Kona??? I ADORE that loyal bean. His bond with Katerina melted my heart, and his care for her was just everything.
Also — the tension between Liam & Katerina??? Ughhh. I was eating up every interaction. It’s hard to tell where the romance is going, but honestly? The plot is so good, you won’t even miss it. Romance definitely takes a backseat, but the adventure? Perfection.
And THAT ENDING??? Babe, my jaw legit hit the floor. I’m not okay. Another cliffhanger?? Yes. Am I already begging for the next book?? Also yes.
If you love:
– rich worldbuilding
– epic quests
– magical creatures
– clean romance
– & heart-racing plot twists
you need this series on your TBR!
Fantasy gold.
Just give me book three already!
This one started off slow and steady, but the moment it picked up pace… I was hooked. The hunt for all Lumos Gems had me on edge, flipping pages like there was no tomorrow.
Around halfway through? Total chaos— in the best possible way. New magical creatures, unexpected powers, and jaw-dropping reveals everywhere. The contrast between the fairy island and Sky city?? So lush, so vivid. JoAnna’s worldbuilding is next-level again in this book, and I was living for every beautifully imagined scene.
Let’s talk characters:
– Liam is still my favorite (yes, I’m loyal).
– Katerina is such a powerhouse— fierce, smart, grounded.
– Keya was a brilliant addition.
– Anthony? Meh. Didn’t vibe with him in this one, love.
– And Kona??? I ADORE that loyal bean. His bond with Katerina melted my heart, and his care for her was just everything.
Also — the tension between Liam & Katerina??? Ughhh. I was eating up every interaction. It’s hard to tell where the romance is going, but honestly? The plot is so good, you won’t even miss it. Romance definitely takes a backseat, but the adventure? Perfection.
And THAT ENDING??? Babe, my jaw legit hit the floor. I’m not okay. Another cliffhanger?? Yes. Am I already begging for the next book?? Also yes.
If you love:
– rich worldbuilding
– epic quests
– magical creatures
– clean romance
– & heart-racing plot twists
you need this series on your TBR!
Fantasy gold.
Just give me book three already!
April 6, 2025
I was very excited to receive Midnight Embers as an advanced reader copy. This is the second book in The Lumos Gems Chronicles and I thought it was a great addition and i'm interested to see where the rest of the series goes. I always find that the second book in a series can be slow as they are often the best time to do extensive world building. While an incredible amount of world building took place, the development of the characters and their stories propelled the story forward. I never felt bored, or like I was having to grind through the lore of the world. We also learn a significant more about the characters in book two, leaving me interested to further learn their stories and paths.
I took off one star, simply because there were a few things that I didn't care for. Book 1 left off on a cliff hanger, and I would have preferred for the reader to be a part of that resolution. Instead of having the reader be a part of that process, we learn the events through the characters reflecting on it. Similarly, book two finished on a significant cliff hanger making the pacing of the plots seem repetitive.
I took off one star, simply because there were a few things that I didn't care for. Book 1 left off on a cliff hanger, and I would have preferred for the reader to be a part of that resolution. Instead of having the reader be a part of that process, we learn the events through the characters reflecting on it. Similarly, book two finished on a significant cliff hanger making the pacing of the plots seem repetitive.
April 28, 2025
Midnight Embers is Book 2 of the Lumos Gems Chronicles by Joanna McSpadden. In this book, we continue to follow Liam, Anthony, and Katerina from where the last book ended.
McSpadden continues writing a magical, dynamic storyline that continues to build on the earlier revelations and reveals more intrigue, mysteries, and secrets along the way. The story that unfolds is riveting and full of twists that you likely won’t see coming.
New worlds and characters are explored and are crafted beautifully. Characters from the first book return in this continuation and new characters are introduced. New emotions, stories, and adventure are well crafted for both the original and the new characters.
Midnight Embers held true to McSpadden’s writing in that it is a fast paced, addictive fantasy that gets you invested from the first page and has you wanting more on the last.
If you’re looking for a fantasy that is gripping and full of magic, intrigue, and adventure, you will not want to miss out on the Lumos Gems Chronicles.
McSpadden continues writing a magical, dynamic storyline that continues to build on the earlier revelations and reveals more intrigue, mysteries, and secrets along the way. The story that unfolds is riveting and full of twists that you likely won’t see coming.
New worlds and characters are explored and are crafted beautifully. Characters from the first book return in this continuation and new characters are introduced. New emotions, stories, and adventure are well crafted for both the original and the new characters.
Midnight Embers held true to McSpadden’s writing in that it is a fast paced, addictive fantasy that gets you invested from the first page and has you wanting more on the last.
If you’re looking for a fantasy that is gripping and full of magic, intrigue, and adventure, you will not want to miss out on the Lumos Gems Chronicles.
May 2, 2025
Rating: 4. 5 / 5 ⭐
I always get nervous reading the second book in a series. I’ve been burnt by the second book syndrome too many times for my own good.
That being said, Midnight Embers absolutely delivered.
We picked up where we left off in Obsidian Tide but now the plot has thickened. The introduction of new characters has absolutely changed the dynamic between characters and I have no idea where we are headed - I’m just along for the ride.
The quests in the Lumos Gems series are top tier and being able to explore more of the world Joanna McSpadden has created is a gift. As our seemingly ragtag group of explorers continue searching for gems, we learn more about the powers they possess. The different ways power manifests itself among the team is poignant and authentic. The character arcs are both beautiful and heartbreaking; honestly it’s not a good book unless I cry.
Plots were twisting but there were a few moments where small subplot solutions felt too easy. Give me the full hero's struggle.
All in all, I highly recommend this series.
I always get nervous reading the second book in a series. I’ve been burnt by the second book syndrome too many times for my own good.
That being said, Midnight Embers absolutely delivered.
We picked up where we left off in Obsidian Tide but now the plot has thickened. The introduction of new characters has absolutely changed the dynamic between characters and I have no idea where we are headed - I’m just along for the ride.
The quests in the Lumos Gems series are top tier and being able to explore more of the world Joanna McSpadden has created is a gift. As our seemingly ragtag group of explorers continue searching for gems, we learn more about the powers they possess. The different ways power manifests itself among the team is poignant and authentic. The character arcs are both beautiful and heartbreaking; honestly it’s not a good book unless I cry.
Plots were twisting but there were a few moments where small subplot solutions felt too easy. Give me the full hero's struggle.
All in all, I highly recommend this series.
April 14, 2025
4.5 stars
The is the second book in The Lumos Gems Chronicles that is a high fantasy where we are taken on another adventure! I really enjoyed this book. Even more than the first one, now with everything slowly unfolding. The story and the magic are so unique and has its own twist. The author does an amazing job with character development and making them so relatable with the burden of responsibilities and what is expected of them. You feel so bad for them, but they have yet to give up and they keep persevering. The world building is at a nice pace, immersive, and easy to understand. There are so many secrets! I had a few jaw dropping experiences and without spoiling anything, I knew there was something up with someone, but did not expect that ending. It was a great continuation of Book 1, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The is the second book in The Lumos Gems Chronicles that is a high fantasy where we are taken on another adventure! I really enjoyed this book. Even more than the first one, now with everything slowly unfolding. The story and the magic are so unique and has its own twist. The author does an amazing job with character development and making them so relatable with the burden of responsibilities and what is expected of them. You feel so bad for them, but they have yet to give up and they keep persevering. The world building is at a nice pace, immersive, and easy to understand. There are so many secrets! I had a few jaw dropping experiences and without spoiling anything, I knew there was something up with someone, but did not expect that ending. It was a great continuation of Book 1, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
Thank you to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2025
Midnight Embers is the 2nd book in The Lumos Gems Chronicles, and since I hadn't read the first book in the series, Obsidian Tide, I quickly devoured it as well.
The first book had a ton of world building and information, which i usually love, but a couple of the characters seemed to be repetitive with their internal monologues, so I wasn't the biggest fan. The second book quickly remedied that! The influx of information you take in during the first book finally starts to come together, and the pieces start to make sense.
This book was less information based and more action based, which I loved immensely! We are finally on track with our quest for the Lumos Gems when you get hit with secret after secret. You just don't know who to trust, and trying to figure out how to continue the mission with everyone against you is just a great read!
As this story is gearing up, I can't wait to see what happens next!
The first book had a ton of world building and information, which i usually love, but a couple of the characters seemed to be repetitive with their internal monologues, so I wasn't the biggest fan. The second book quickly remedied that! The influx of information you take in during the first book finally starts to come together, and the pieces start to make sense.
This book was less information based and more action based, which I loved immensely! We are finally on track with our quest for the Lumos Gems when you get hit with secret after secret. You just don't know who to trust, and trying to figure out how to continue the mission with everyone against you is just a great read!
As this story is gearing up, I can't wait to see what happens next!
April 29, 2025
6/5 stars
Wow!! This was an absolutely amazing high fantasy novel! I was immediately hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down! The immersive plot with nonstop action kept me captivated by the story. While the twists and turns had me in complete surprise! Their enchanting world was so magically portrayed by the wonderful storytelling. I loved all the intricacies of their world, from the lore of the elemental magic to the creative creatures origin stories. All of these little details created so much depth and kept me enthralled.
I loved seeing the continuation of growth and depth of all of the characters from the first book to the second, especially Katerina and Liam! They were so relatable in their struggles with their insecurities as they challenged the lives they thought they would have and discovered their true strength! I also really enjoyed the inclusion of Anthony's point of view. He was one of my favorite characters from the first book, and I loved getting the insight into his story!
The buildup of events in the last few chapters was insane! My eyes were glued to the page as I couldn't read fast enough! I was completely blown away by the cliffhanger ending!!! I cannot wait to see what unfolds from this turn of events!!!
Thank you so much for the eARC!
Wow!! This was an absolutely amazing high fantasy novel! I was immediately hooked from the first page and couldn't put it down! The immersive plot with nonstop action kept me captivated by the story. While the twists and turns had me in complete surprise! Their enchanting world was so magically portrayed by the wonderful storytelling. I loved all the intricacies of their world, from the lore of the elemental magic to the creative creatures origin stories. All of these little details created so much depth and kept me enthralled.
I loved seeing the continuation of growth and depth of all of the characters from the first book to the second, especially Katerina and Liam! They were so relatable in their struggles with their insecurities as they challenged the lives they thought they would have and discovered their true strength! I also really enjoyed the inclusion of Anthony's point of view. He was one of my favorite characters from the first book, and I loved getting the insight into his story!
The buildup of events in the last few chapters was insane! My eyes were glued to the page as I couldn't read fast enough! I was completely blown away by the cliffhanger ending!!! I cannot wait to see what unfolds from this turn of events!!!
Thank you so much for the eARC!
May 2, 2025
I was so excited to read the second installment in The Lumos Gems Chronicles and it did not disappoint!
One of my favorite things about this book is the way it really dives into the characters’ internal struggles. They have such great emotional depth and that kept me very invested in their outcomes.
The action was non-stop in this installment, with several twists and surprises. The trio found themselves questioning motivations and who they could trust at every turn.
I also really continue to enjoy the world building and magic system in this series. I find them both to be unique. The author also built on both in this book in a way that felt really natural.
I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
One of my favorite things about this book is the way it really dives into the characters’ internal struggles. They have such great emotional depth and that kept me very invested in their outcomes.
The action was non-stop in this installment, with several twists and surprises. The trio found themselves questioning motivations and who they could trust at every turn.
I also really continue to enjoy the world building and magic system in this series. I find them both to be unique. The author also built on both in this book in a way that felt really natural.
I can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
August 10, 2025
In this sequel, we start back with Anthony, Katerina & Liam as they try to reintegrate back into their old lives after fighting the Stone Gaurdian of the water stone. Katerina struggles to find her footing in a world where she has no powers, Anthony struggles with the thought of being tied down by duty to the empire, and Liam wants to do the right thing but struggles to know what exactly that is. Their already turbulent situations get thrown into more chaos when a friend comes looking for help. Join our 3 adventurers on this next Epic journey as they search for the next stone but also where they fit in their ever changing world!
A truly delicious continuation of their stories that will keep you guessing at every turn!
A truly delicious continuation of their stories that will keep you guessing at every turn!
April 11, 2025
The page turning plot was both artful & torturous in the best way. I loved getting to know more from these characters and seeing their stories develop! Will I be dying inside until the next book is out? Obviously. I absolutely cannot wait to add this one to my shelf! This is a great series for people who love adventure and action packed fantasies. The clean romance & tasteful battle scenes make the series approachable for readers of many different age groups and preferences. My favorite thing about Midnight Embers is how utterly immersive it is from start to finish. The vibes are cozy & the world building is superb. I would recommend this series to anyone!
April 19, 2025
ARC reader 🌸 wooow! The ending.. just wow I need book 3! this book had such twists and turns. It did a great job of continuing book one and exploring the story. This series continues to be an easy read and a good chill fantasy series.
100% recommend this series to everyone!
100% recommend this series to everyone!
April 26, 2025
Loved it! JoAnna has such a beautiful writing style and knows how to make you fall in love with the characters. The two MMCs, and especially the FMC are so relatable and they continue to grow and develop in this second book. Definitely a must read!
Be warned, it does end on another cliffhanger!
Be warned, it does end on another cliffhanger!
April 29, 2025
Once again, I loved this book, maybe just a little more than the first book. I loved the details with the magic. I was not expecting some of the twists nor the cliffhanger. The characters and details were written amazing. This book is another favorite read this year.
April 3, 2025
A cute follow up to the first book!
May 6, 2025
Absolutely loved it! This is an amazing second book. I love learning more about these character and this fun world! I am looking forward to reading the next book!
April 29, 2025
4.5
was wonderful! I love the adventure that the group goes on, and I love the individual struggles you get to see throughout the book. The ENDING YOOO!! I was dumbfounded! There is so much going on! You start to question alot.
was wonderful! I love the adventure that the group goes on, and I love the individual struggles you get to see throughout the book. The ENDING YOOO!! I was dumbfounded! There is so much going on! You start to question alot.
May 8, 2025
I really enjoyed going back to the world of Akaria and the Lumos Gems! Book 2 picks up right where Obsidian Tide left off, with more danger and more adventure as it continues the story of the princes and princess, plus some new characters which were a lot of fun. I especially like the addition of the fairies in this book (who love to party)! Plus you learn a lot more about the Lumos Gems themselves and the magic hiding within the world they live in. This book takes you on a wild ride especially towards the end, and once again leaves you on a total cliffhanger which you won't see coming! Can't wait for book 3 to see where their story goes from here!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews