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The Divine Tapestry #2
Of Sky & Embers
As gods and kings wage war, is love strong enough to stand between death and divinity?
When Henri claimed a foreign kingdom, he did not expect to have to fight in a deadly trial against rival Merovian kings to retain his throne. But before he can face the summit, he must first survive the Idris desert and its many secrets. When unexpected alliances—both mortal and divine—present themselves, Henri faces a harrowing is the price of victory worth the cost?
Malik knows the odds of Henri surviving the summit are not in his favor. However, he questions the motives of the sand wielding Naiab and is well acquainted with the fickle nature of the gods. Unwilling to trust either with Henri’s fate, Malik is prepared to sacrifice everything to ensure Henri’s survival. Even if it means Henri will never forgive him.
Tahlia knows she never really had the power to change anything in the tapestry of her life, she only managed to delay the stitches. Still, she cannot bring herself to regret her choices, even though saving her king meant revealing herself to the gods that hunt her. She stole half a life, now she owes them more than her death. She owes them an eternity. But with whatever fleeting time she has left of this mortal life, she intends to make it count.
Set in a rich Middle Eastern inspired world, Of Sky & Embers is an adult fantasy romance filled with sand magic, deities, plot twists, multiple POV, and sizzling MM/MMF/MF romance.
When Henri claimed a foreign kingdom, he did not expect to have to fight in a deadly trial against rival Merovian kings to retain his throne. But before he can face the summit, he must first survive the Idris desert and its many secrets. When unexpected alliances—both mortal and divine—present themselves, Henri faces a harrowing is the price of victory worth the cost?
Malik knows the odds of Henri surviving the summit are not in his favor. However, he questions the motives of the sand wielding Naiab and is well acquainted with the fickle nature of the gods. Unwilling to trust either with Henri’s fate, Malik is prepared to sacrifice everything to ensure Henri’s survival. Even if it means Henri will never forgive him.
Tahlia knows she never really had the power to change anything in the tapestry of her life, she only managed to delay the stitches. Still, she cannot bring herself to regret her choices, even though saving her king meant revealing herself to the gods that hunt her. She stole half a life, now she owes them more than her death. She owes them an eternity. But with whatever fleeting time she has left of this mortal life, she intends to make it count.
Set in a rich Middle Eastern inspired world, Of Sky & Embers is an adult fantasy romance filled with sand magic, deities, plot twists, multiple POV, and sizzling MM/MMF/MF romance.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 18, 2025
1 person is currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 26, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Holy guacamole! This book picks up right where book one left you!
This one is a journey! It did take me a little longer than normal to read, HOWEVER, the world building in this one is incredible! The writing style and imagery has you there! I must admit, I struggle with multiple POVs (this one has 6… I’m sure..) which was my only issue, however, I do realise that this is a me issue and not at all the writing. I was thoroughly invested in all POV and directions… it just took me a minute for my brain to catch up!
Middle eastern vibes, politics, multiple locations, tasteful spice, intelligent characters, conflict. It ticks all the boxes for an enjoyable but also thought provoking read.
Claire is becoming one of my favourite authors, both books have been exquisitely executed and I’m so keen to see where she takes me next! Thanks so much for the ARC!
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Holy guacamole! This book picks up right where book one left you!
This one is a journey! It did take me a little longer than normal to read, HOWEVER, the world building in this one is incredible! The writing style and imagery has you there! I must admit, I struggle with multiple POVs (this one has 6… I’m sure..) which was my only issue, however, I do realise that this is a me issue and not at all the writing. I was thoroughly invested in all POV and directions… it just took me a minute for my brain to catch up!
Middle eastern vibes, politics, multiple locations, tasteful spice, intelligent characters, conflict. It ticks all the boxes for an enjoyable but also thought provoking read.
Claire is becoming one of my favourite authors, both books have been exquisitely executed and I’m so keen to see where she takes me next! Thanks so much for the ARC!
December 15, 2024
Thanks so much to Claire Butler for sending me an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. As always all thoughts and opinions written in this review are my own.
I think I ended my review of Of Sand & Silk with a version of "I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP" - and then I was blessed by some literary goddess and got to read the book early and I'm so happy I did. Honestly if you are reading this in time just get both books, just do it, just treat yourself - just make sure you have book 2 ready to read becuase in my opinion are meant to be read close together! You are going to want to dive right in!
This book starts right where Of Sand & Silk left off and starts right in the action and honestly takes you on a wild & emotional rollercoaster from there on. Much like the first book this story is told in multi-POV and honestly I loved all of them pretty equally. I think there was a really good balance between all of them (even with a few more introduced in this book) which made it a really interesting read becuase I always wonder with sequels why a new POV would be added but it was so satisfying to see these characters go on their journey.
Overall the plot was really intersting, while most of the first book is spent in the same city this book is more or less spend on the road and from different cities/locations. Because of both this and the 6 POV characters there are a lot of things to explore and develop but I think this was really well done.
The ending had me in tears and honestly this might be a new favorite duology for me.
Also I would love to read more from this world and see what happens next both in the world at large up also what each of the POV characters are doing. Although I am currently in a move I will be buying this duology & the previous one to read and have on my shelves because I love Henri so much and would love to read more of where he came from.
As a final note: (as with the first book) The author added a note at the start of the book talking about how she's writing a fantasy book but was inspired by places she visited in the Middle East and was trying to be mindful not to write any offensive/harmful content. I personally think she did this well and it wasn't offensive in a way I could tell- but I'm not from the middle east as always I do encourage you to check out own voices reviewers (at the time I'm writing this I haven't spotted any but this is an ARC review so some might be posted soon).
I think I ended my review of Of Sand & Silk with a version of "I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP" - and then I was blessed by some literary goddess and got to read the book early and I'm so happy I did. Honestly if you are reading this in time just get both books, just do it, just treat yourself - just make sure you have book 2 ready to read becuase in my opinion are meant to be read close together! You are going to want to dive right in!
This book starts right where Of Sand & Silk left off and starts right in the action and honestly takes you on a wild & emotional rollercoaster from there on. Much like the first book this story is told in multi-POV and honestly I loved all of them pretty equally. I think there was a really good balance between all of them (even with a few more introduced in this book) which made it a really interesting read becuase I always wonder with sequels why a new POV would be added but it was so satisfying to see these characters go on their journey.
Overall the plot was really intersting, while most of the first book is spent in the same city this book is more or less spend on the road and from different cities/locations. Because of both this and the 6 POV characters there are a lot of things to explore and develop but I think this was really well done.
The ending had me in tears and honestly this might be a new favorite duology for me.
Also I would love to read more from this world and see what happens next both in the world at large up also what each of the POV characters are doing. Although I am currently in a move I will be buying this duology & the previous one to read and have on my shelves because I love Henri so much and would love to read more of where he came from.
As a final note: (as with the first book) The author added a note at the start of the book talking about how she's writing a fantasy book but was inspired by places she visited in the Middle East and was trying to be mindful not to write any offensive/harmful content. I personally think she did this well and it wasn't offensive in a way I could tell- but I'm not from the middle east as always I do encourage you to check out own voices reviewers (at the time I'm writing this I haven't spotted any but this is an ARC review so some might be posted soon).
January 15, 2025
Rating: 4.5✨
Spice: 2.5🌶️
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. This review is voluntary & honest.
Boy was this read an incredible rollercoaster ride I would definitely go through again just to experience every single moment, emotion & feral moments due to these characters. I was absolutely invested & riveted by both book 1 & 2 and I cannot believe these characters’ stories have come to a conclusion! Also, can I just say that I absolutely love seeing Claire’s evolvement as an author since her debut book. I keep falling more in love with it with each tale she weaves. And the world she created for this story, the magic, the deities, the political intrigue & the ROMANCE. Absolute perfection!
Henri, I am beyond proud of this man. His development from when we first met him in “To Reclaim A Kingdom” is top tier. He is a completely different Henri in the best way, one who opened himself up to discovering who he was deep down, outside of the kingdom he grew up in & distanced himself from. One who found himself as the new King of a foreign kingdom that on saw him as an outsider, a threat. The king he became, one who was caring & just, but fierce & merciless when needed. And also a Henri who found love & a family worth risking everything for. His selfless personality & the way he loves wholeheartedly will forever be one of my favorite things about him.
Malik? The way this man is the KING of poetry. The things he says have the power to melt you into a puddle & have you swooning for days. He is not only a fierce fighter, but an even fiercer lover. He is selfless to a fault, ready to give it all up for the one he loves, but he is a character that you know will be by your side to the very end. I have loved seeing his development from book 1, where he refused to trust anyone & was constantly scheming & keeping secrets. And his never-ending devotion to Henri? It was absolutely heartwarming. I adore this man. The moments between Henri & Malik were full of passion. Their connection was one of a kind, the way they were tethered to one another down to their very being. They have you feeling all types of emotions in the best of ways & I am just absolutely obsessed with them.
Tahlia is an absolute queen in my eyes. In this book we learn more of her past & backstory & although I loved getting to know her on a deeper level, her story had my heart breaking. I was ready to fight the world for her. The way she loved deeply & immediately put those she loved first was one of my favorite things about her. She is a character who shows more of her strength throughout both books & it makes you admire & love her even more. I truly adore her.
Ele & Kala are my babies & I would protect them from the world if needed. They were both forced to mature at an early age & the way they face the world & the challenges thrown their way is absolutely admirable. They both deserve the absolute world & all the happiness for the rest of their days. Other characters were introduced that I became absolutely obsessed with & I am hoping to see more of in the future.
With all of that said, I am excited for the other characters’ stories that are hopefully to come. Any future books of Claire’s are an absolute read for me & I am definitely ready to go on whatever new journey she takes us on. If you’re a lover of found family, books with deadly trials & political intrigue, scheming, interesting magical powers, and MM/MMF/MF romances, this is definitely a book & series for you! 💜
Spice: 2.5🌶️
Thank you to the author for the eARC opportunity. This review is voluntary & honest.
Boy was this read an incredible rollercoaster ride I would definitely go through again just to experience every single moment, emotion & feral moments due to these characters. I was absolutely invested & riveted by both book 1 & 2 and I cannot believe these characters’ stories have come to a conclusion! Also, can I just say that I absolutely love seeing Claire’s evolvement as an author since her debut book. I keep falling more in love with it with each tale she weaves. And the world she created for this story, the magic, the deities, the political intrigue & the ROMANCE. Absolute perfection!
Henri, I am beyond proud of this man. His development from when we first met him in “To Reclaim A Kingdom” is top tier. He is a completely different Henri in the best way, one who opened himself up to discovering who he was deep down, outside of the kingdom he grew up in & distanced himself from. One who found himself as the new King of a foreign kingdom that on saw him as an outsider, a threat. The king he became, one who was caring & just, but fierce & merciless when needed. And also a Henri who found love & a family worth risking everything for. His selfless personality & the way he loves wholeheartedly will forever be one of my favorite things about him.
Malik? The way this man is the KING of poetry. The things he says have the power to melt you into a puddle & have you swooning for days. He is not only a fierce fighter, but an even fiercer lover. He is selfless to a fault, ready to give it all up for the one he loves, but he is a character that you know will be by your side to the very end. I have loved seeing his development from book 1, where he refused to trust anyone & was constantly scheming & keeping secrets. And his never-ending devotion to Henri? It was absolutely heartwarming. I adore this man. The moments between Henri & Malik were full of passion. Their connection was one of a kind, the way they were tethered to one another down to their very being. They have you feeling all types of emotions in the best of ways & I am just absolutely obsessed with them.
Tahlia is an absolute queen in my eyes. In this book we learn more of her past & backstory & although I loved getting to know her on a deeper level, her story had my heart breaking. I was ready to fight the world for her. The way she loved deeply & immediately put those she loved first was one of my favorite things about her. She is a character who shows more of her strength throughout both books & it makes you admire & love her even more. I truly adore her.
Ele & Kala are my babies & I would protect them from the world if needed. They were both forced to mature at an early age & the way they face the world & the challenges thrown their way is absolutely admirable. They both deserve the absolute world & all the happiness for the rest of their days. Other characters were introduced that I became absolutely obsessed with & I am hoping to see more of in the future.
With all of that said, I am excited for the other characters’ stories that are hopefully to come. Any future books of Claire’s are an absolute read for me & I am definitely ready to go on whatever new journey she takes us on. If you’re a lover of found family, books with deadly trials & political intrigue, scheming, interesting magical powers, and MM/MMF/MF romances, this is definitely a book & series for you! 💜
January 20, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with e-ARC of the book. I am choosing to leave a review, and all my thoughts are my own honest ones.
My rating is closer to about a 4.5.
Claire has mastered writing intense, magical, and fast paced stories. Reading this duology was so much fun and I was invested! There were a lot of POVs in this but each perspective was fascinating and it kept me turning pages.
Henri continuously goes through it. My poor baby. That being said, he has grown sooo much and he is most definitely a vastly different character from who we met in the Red Wood series. Henri has become such a strong leader and I am so happy to see that he found his footing and little family that will go to war for him. He deserves that and so much more.
Malik is such a devoted fierce warrior that says the most poetic things. It was wonderful seeing him be receptive to positive change and witnessing how far he was willing to go to protect his beloved Henri. Malik has his own past and issues to deal with, but adapting and striving for a better future is something that he blew out of the park.
Tahlia is a character that broke my heart. As much as it hurt, I thoroughly enjoyed learning about her backstory and seeing in what direction her character arc went in. Tahlia has been pushed into circumstance after circumstance, so to see her find her place among people who truly care for her was beautiful.
Ele and Kala were so flipping adorable. These precious babies had to grow up so quickly and they are so much more mature than their time in the world. They are basically adults in little younger bodies. Someone protect them at all costs.
There were so many dynamics to keep track of in this and I loved it all. There are various forms of love and caring for others and Claire demonstrated that quite nicely.
I cannot believe that the story has concluded, but I have hope in a spinoff soon because I still have so many questions about the fates of other characters. I just know that Claire will deliver.
My rating is closer to about a 4.5.
Claire has mastered writing intense, magical, and fast paced stories. Reading this duology was so much fun and I was invested! There were a lot of POVs in this but each perspective was fascinating and it kept me turning pages.
Henri continuously goes through it. My poor baby. That being said, he has grown sooo much and he is most definitely a vastly different character from who we met in the Red Wood series. Henri has become such a strong leader and I am so happy to see that he found his footing and little family that will go to war for him. He deserves that and so much more.
Malik is such a devoted fierce warrior that says the most poetic things. It was wonderful seeing him be receptive to positive change and witnessing how far he was willing to go to protect his beloved Henri. Malik has his own past and issues to deal with, but adapting and striving for a better future is something that he blew out of the park.
Tahlia is a character that broke my heart. As much as it hurt, I thoroughly enjoyed learning about her backstory and seeing in what direction her character arc went in. Tahlia has been pushed into circumstance after circumstance, so to see her find her place among people who truly care for her was beautiful.
Ele and Kala were so flipping adorable. These precious babies had to grow up so quickly and they are so much more mature than their time in the world. They are basically adults in little younger bodies. Someone protect them at all costs.
There were so many dynamics to keep track of in this and I loved it all. There are various forms of love and caring for others and Claire demonstrated that quite nicely.
I cannot believe that the story has concluded, but I have hope in a spinoff soon because I still have so many questions about the fates of other characters. I just know that Claire will deliver.
January 18, 2025
Of Sky and Embers is such a fitting conclusion to the Divine Tapestry duology. A middle-eastern inspired, multi POV fantasy romance with plenty of action, politics, romance and a touch of magic.
The character arcs were just perfection, and I really enjoyed following all of the main characters with their own POV across the books. The journeys they each went on were trying and so rewarding at the same time. Each character brings something unique to the story - Henri and his sense of justice, Malik and his love for his country and King, Ele and his loyalty, Tahlia and her trials and Kala and her determination.
Claire did an amazing job keeping some of the twists under wraps despite having an inside voice to each of the characters and oh the betrayal still stung even though we all knew it was eventually coming!
I loved book one in this duology, but was after a bit more action and book two delivered. The summit was absolute chaos in all the right ways. Even after the first book, the romance scenes still held so much delicious tension which really intensified the reading experience.
This is a must read duology for romantasy fans - you will fall in love with Merovia, the characters and Claire's writing.
Thank you so much to Claire Butler for an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Narration: Multi character POV, third person POV
Spice: 3/5
Tropes:
- MM / MMF / MF romance
- gods & deities
- politics & intrigue
- Epic fight scenes
- Found Family
- multi POV
- Elemental Magic
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The character arcs were just perfection, and I really enjoyed following all of the main characters with their own POV across the books. The journeys they each went on were trying and so rewarding at the same time. Each character brings something unique to the story - Henri and his sense of justice, Malik and his love for his country and King, Ele and his loyalty, Tahlia and her trials and Kala and her determination.
Claire did an amazing job keeping some of the twists under wraps despite having an inside voice to each of the characters and oh the betrayal still stung even though we all knew it was eventually coming!
I loved book one in this duology, but was after a bit more action and book two delivered. The summit was absolute chaos in all the right ways. Even after the first book, the romance scenes still held so much delicious tension which really intensified the reading experience.
This is a must read duology for romantasy fans - you will fall in love with Merovia, the characters and Claire's writing.
Thank you so much to Claire Butler for an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Narration: Multi character POV, third person POV
Spice: 3/5
Tropes:
- MM / MMF / MF romance
- gods & deities
- politics & intrigue
- Epic fight scenes
- Found Family
- multi POV
- Elemental Magic
Follow me for more:
December 29, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
I agreed to accept this arc without having read the first book, Of Sand & Silk, or any of Claire Butler’s books. But I’m so glad I did! I devoured book 1, the tension between Malik and Henri was top tier and I was obsessed.
Of Sky & Embers picks up directly where book 1 ended, which happened to be a big cliffhanger. Book 2 has us traveling through and exploring other kingdoms in this middle eastern inspired world, and I really loved the expanded world building! We get more of the magic system and gods as well, which I really enjoyed. There were a lot more action scenes in this one. The stakes were high and the book was fast paced.
I still loved Malik and Henri’s relationship in book 2, as well as their dynamic with Tahlia. However their stubbornness was frustrating at times. I loved the new character we were introduced to, Isa, and I’m excited for book 3! Claire managed to tie up Malik and Henri’s journey nicely while still setting up book 3 which will follow other MMC’s.
Be sure to add this epic romantasy to your tbr! Filled with rich imagery, epic tension, banter and sizzling spice!
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted eArc in exchange for an honest review.
3 🌶️
I agreed to accept this arc without having read the first book, Of Sand & Silk, or any of Claire Butler’s books. But I’m so glad I did! I devoured book 1, the tension between Malik and Henri was top tier and I was obsessed.
Of Sky & Embers picks up directly where book 1 ended, which happened to be a big cliffhanger. Book 2 has us traveling through and exploring other kingdoms in this middle eastern inspired world, and I really loved the expanded world building! We get more of the magic system and gods as well, which I really enjoyed. There were a lot more action scenes in this one. The stakes were high and the book was fast paced.
I still loved Malik and Henri’s relationship in book 2, as well as their dynamic with Tahlia. However their stubbornness was frustrating at times. I loved the new character we were introduced to, Isa, and I’m excited for book 3! Claire managed to tie up Malik and Henri’s journey nicely while still setting up book 3 which will follow other MMC’s.
Be sure to add this epic romantasy to your tbr! Filled with rich imagery, epic tension, banter and sizzling spice!
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted eArc in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2025
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: Of Sky & Embers (The Divine Tapestry, Book 2)
“𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
I had the absolute honor of beta reading this last year and I could not be more thrilled with how Claire brings these beloved characters to life while wrapping up storylines and foreshadowing things that I am so excited about!
Tropes/themes:
👀Multiple POVs
💗MM/MMF/MF romance
⏳Sand Magic & deities
🏰Political intrigue
☀️One 🐫
🌶️: moderate to high
…𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴.
This is a plot and character driven story and the prose is simply divine! In this installment, multiple POVs and storylines converge and diverge on different threads of fate. Claire builds upon the rich world from Book 1 and manages to add more angst, heartache, and danger. I loved the deeper dive into the divinities and introduction of a certain *new* character and the sand magic.
Wistful, suspenseful, and deeply romantic, Of Sky & Embers is a stunning conclusion to Henri’s storyline and I cannot wait to see what Claire has planned next!
Huge thanks to Claire Butler for the opportunity to read this ARC! This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: Of Sky & Embers (The Divine Tapestry, Book 2)
“𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴. 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘴𝘱𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘦𝘹𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
I had the absolute honor of beta reading this last year and I could not be more thrilled with how Claire brings these beloved characters to life while wrapping up storylines and foreshadowing things that I am so excited about!
Tropes/themes:
👀Multiple POVs
💗MM/MMF/MF romance
⏳Sand Magic & deities
🏰Political intrigue
☀️One 🐫
🌶️: moderate to high
…𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘪𝘳 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩 𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘴.
This is a plot and character driven story and the prose is simply divine! In this installment, multiple POVs and storylines converge and diverge on different threads of fate. Claire builds upon the rich world from Book 1 and manages to add more angst, heartache, and danger. I loved the deeper dive into the divinities and introduction of a certain *new* character and the sand magic.
Wistful, suspenseful, and deeply romantic, Of Sky & Embers is a stunning conclusion to Henri’s storyline and I cannot wait to see what Claire has planned next!
Huge thanks to Claire Butler for the opportunity to read this ARC! This is my honest and voluntary review.
December 23, 2024
The Divine Tapestry Series takes place in a Middle Eastern inspired world. This is book two which releases on the 18th January, 2025.
Claire’s writing is beautiful and I was captivated from the beginning. The world building was impressive.
The spice was top tier, it gets VERY spicy in this book! Malik is just perfection.
Some of the tropes include: found family, trials, gods & goddesses, MM/MF/MMF romance, unique magic system (sand magic), one camel, multiple POV.
My favourite quotes:
“A goddess belongs to no one. They cannot be claimed, only worshiped.”
“We’ll find a way. I swear to you, I will stand between divinity and death to keep you by my side. You are mine. No force of heaven or earth will take you from me.”
“We are in a holy city and all I can think about is doing something unholy to you.”
“Let me have you,” “Tonight and every night.”
“A king crawling on his hands and knees to me.”
Claire’s writing is beautiful and I was captivated from the beginning. The world building was impressive.
The spice was top tier, it gets VERY spicy in this book! Malik is just perfection.
Some of the tropes include: found family, trials, gods & goddesses, MM/MF/MMF romance, unique magic system (sand magic), one camel, multiple POV.
My favourite quotes:
“A goddess belongs to no one. They cannot be claimed, only worshiped.”
“We’ll find a way. I swear to you, I will stand between divinity and death to keep you by my side. You are mine. No force of heaven or earth will take you from me.”
“We are in a holy city and all I can think about is doing something unholy to you.”
“Let me have you,” “Tonight and every night.”
“A king crawling on his hands and knees to me.”
January 17, 2025
This book repeatedly tore my heart up and then put it back together and I loved it so much.
I loved joining Henri, Malik and Tahlia along their journey to the Kings of Merovia Summit and seeing how their story played out! This book is full of secrets, war, angst, yearning, lover and tragedy and I ate up every moment. Poor Claire had to deal with me in her DMs screaming and I am sure I wasn’t the only one!!
It was so amazing to see Henri develop as a character, and his relationship with Malik and Tahlia progress, they are such layered characters and I adored them so much!!! I also have such fondness for Ele and Kala and was so glad to get their POVs!
The ending was so bitter sweet and I am so excited to see more of certain characters in future books! I need more books from Claire like I need air and water!!
Thank you to Claire for providing me with an eARC in return for an honest review!!
I loved joining Henri, Malik and Tahlia along their journey to the Kings of Merovia Summit and seeing how their story played out! This book is full of secrets, war, angst, yearning, lover and tragedy and I ate up every moment. Poor Claire had to deal with me in her DMs screaming and I am sure I wasn’t the only one!!
It was so amazing to see Henri develop as a character, and his relationship with Malik and Tahlia progress, they are such layered characters and I adored them so much!!! I also have such fondness for Ele and Kala and was so glad to get their POVs!
The ending was so bitter sweet and I am so excited to see more of certain characters in future books! I need more books from Claire like I need air and water!!
Thank you to Claire for providing me with an eARC in return for an honest review!!
January 19, 2025
"We all need people in our lives willing to fight for us. Against our enemies but sometimes against ourselves. But we need to be somebody worth the fight."
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a fantastic sequel! I'm pretty sure it's my favorite of her books so far! The relationships and the waring kingdoms with gods interfering made for absolutely captivating chaos. Every time I turned the page I was taken by surprise and unable to figure out what would come next. I love the main MM couple as well as the MMF involvement! Their are 5 POVs but they switch out so seemlessly throughout the chapters and really worked to show us the whole picture for the story. I really hope one of the side characters is getting her story next 👀 IYKYK!
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️
This was a fantastic sequel! I'm pretty sure it's my favorite of her books so far! The relationships and the waring kingdoms with gods interfering made for absolutely captivating chaos. Every time I turned the page I was taken by surprise and unable to figure out what would come next. I love the main MM couple as well as the MMF involvement! Their are 5 POVs but they switch out so seemlessly throughout the chapters and really worked to show us the whole picture for the story. I really hope one of the side characters is getting her story next 👀 IYKYK!
December 30, 2024
What a joy to be back with this world and its characters ! Once again, Claire did not disappoint, and I was really glad to get to know the people from the Idris Desert, the Naiab. The multiple POV made it really interesting and it flowed naturally, making the chapters intertwine perfectly. The pace is steady and you can absolutely devour this conclusion to the duology. I let a few gasps escape me here and there, and what a bittersweet ending !
November 22, 2024
“One man, one child, one king… can alter the outcome of entire worlds.”
“Given the choice between death and immortality, most mortals would choose to be divine.”
“The gods don’t forget, and they don’t forgive.”
“I refuse to be the reason for your stupidity!”
“We are in a holy city and all I can think about is doing something unholy to you.”
“Are you trying to seduce me or negotiate with me?”
This book was absolutely amazing! Wild, emotional ride in the best possible way.
The book picks up right where the previous one, Of Sand & Silk, ended and continues to follow the familiar characters from the first book.
The book is told in multiple POVs, and I think that the multi-POV storytelling worked well for the plot, especially since all the main characters weren’t always in the same place.
There was a lot happening and multiple plot twists I didn’t see coming. This book answered multiple questions I had after reading the first book, and a lot of the answers were truly surprising.
There were multiple parts that made me laugh, and also a few parts that made me tear up. A few parts even made me want to scream at certain characters. The world-building and character development were, once again, well written, and I enjoyed the relationship and friendship development between different characters.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys fantasy romance with beautifully written world-building, complex characters, deities, magic, political intrigue, and a storyline that will keep you hooked from the first pages.
I can’t wait to read more!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
“Given the choice between death and immortality, most mortals would choose to be divine.”
“The gods don’t forget, and they don’t forgive.”
“I refuse to be the reason for your stupidity!”
“We are in a holy city and all I can think about is doing something unholy to you.”
“Are you trying to seduce me or negotiate with me?”
This book was absolutely amazing! Wild, emotional ride in the best possible way.
The book picks up right where the previous one, Of Sand & Silk, ended and continues to follow the familiar characters from the first book.
The book is told in multiple POVs, and I think that the multi-POV storytelling worked well for the plot, especially since all the main characters weren’t always in the same place.
There was a lot happening and multiple plot twists I didn’t see coming. This book answered multiple questions I had after reading the first book, and a lot of the answers were truly surprising.
There were multiple parts that made me laugh, and also a few parts that made me tear up. A few parts even made me want to scream at certain characters. The world-building and character development were, once again, well written, and I enjoyed the relationship and friendship development between different characters.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys fantasy romance with beautifully written world-building, complex characters, deities, magic, political intrigue, and a storyline that will keep you hooked from the first pages.
I can’t wait to read more!
I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
January 21, 2025
Of Sky & Embers is the second book in the Divine Tapestry Series and picked up exactly where book one left us; with Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele, and Kala making their way through the desert to get to the summit where Henri will have to fight to prove himself to all of the other Merovian Kings.
I feel like so much I want to say about the story, but I dont want to spoil anything! I will say this, the romance was top notch, the tension was perfection, and the twists kept me on the edge of my seat! I had a rollercoaster of emotions, but
I loved every moment! Getting all the different POV's gave us insight into every angle of the story. We got to meet so many new characters and learned even more about the secrets our favorite core group was keeping. I enjoyed how we got so much more of the political scheming and backgrounds of the different dieties as well.
The ending did leave me with all the feelings! I was so happy with how Henri’s story was wrapped up, and I am excited about the possibility of seeing some of the characters again in the future! There were definitely lots of doors open. I hope we get to peak behind to stay in this world Claire created for a little bit longer.
OSAE is filled with unexpected allies, new characters, sand magic, multiple POVs, deities and their drama, so many plot twists, and most importantly, romance! If you haven't read of Sand & Silk, you need to pick it up so you can catch up on this series!
Thank you, Claire, again for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book & inviting me to be one of your camels! I've had the best time reasing all your stories, and I can't wait to see what stories you create and adventures you take us on next!
I feel like so much I want to say about the story, but I dont want to spoil anything! I will say this, the romance was top notch, the tension was perfection, and the twists kept me on the edge of my seat! I had a rollercoaster of emotions, but
I loved every moment! Getting all the different POV's gave us insight into every angle of the story. We got to meet so many new characters and learned even more about the secrets our favorite core group was keeping. I enjoyed how we got so much more of the political scheming and backgrounds of the different dieties as well.
The ending did leave me with all the feelings! I was so happy with how Henri’s story was wrapped up, and I am excited about the possibility of seeing some of the characters again in the future! There were definitely lots of doors open. I hope we get to peak behind to stay in this world Claire created for a little bit longer.
OSAE is filled with unexpected allies, new characters, sand magic, multiple POVs, deities and their drama, so many plot twists, and most importantly, romance! If you haven't read of Sand & Silk, you need to pick it up so you can catch up on this series!
Thank you, Claire, again for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book & inviting me to be one of your camels! I've had the best time reasing all your stories, and I can't wait to see what stories you create and adventures you take us on next!
January 10, 2025
Another incredible book by Claire Butler!
This book picks off exactly where book 1 ended and doesn't have a slow spot in it. It's go-go-go right from the start and I LOVED it. So many questions that were raised in the first book are answered, then we have new questions and new answers and URGH. Just so much happens and it was incredibly fun to read.
The character development is always interesting from Claire. She sets a wonderful scene from the start and keeps the development simple but powerful, making for an incredibly enjoyable read that doesn't feel really dense or difficult to get through like many fantasy novels can sometimes be.
Fair warning, I did want to throw my Kindle out the window a couple of times though... Claire you know what you did! 😂 (the fact I was this invested should speak volumes about how much I loved it, those things aint cheap lol)
I can't wait to read more from Claire and from this world she has created.
Special shoutout to Arsyn for having the coolest name.
This book picks off exactly where book 1 ended and doesn't have a slow spot in it. It's go-go-go right from the start and I LOVED it. So many questions that were raised in the first book are answered, then we have new questions and new answers and URGH. Just so much happens and it was incredibly fun to read.
The character development is always interesting from Claire. She sets a wonderful scene from the start and keeps the development simple but powerful, making for an incredibly enjoyable read that doesn't feel really dense or difficult to get through like many fantasy novels can sometimes be.
Fair warning, I did want to throw my Kindle out the window a couple of times though... Claire you know what you did! 😂 (the fact I was this invested should speak volumes about how much I loved it, those things aint cheap lol)
I can't wait to read more from Claire and from this world she has created.
Special shoutout to Arsyn for having the coolest name.
January 8, 2025
“The prevailing of injustice is maintained by the apathy of many. One man, one child, one king …can alter the outcome of entire worlds...”This book picks up the moment the first one left off… not exaggerating. We’re introduced to the Naiab people & get to see the sand wielders in action (spoiler alert: it’s incredible). Plus, we get to learn about the goddesses & gods in Merovian culture, in addition to diving deeper into the secrets our characters have been keeping from one another. I think my favorite thing about this book is the depth we get to explore with the characters. We get a new main character (he’s amazing), we get a POV from a minor character in Of Sand & Silk, and everyone else’s POVs dive deeper into the storyline.
“Henri, I am yours. There is no span of time or plane of existence where I do not love you. Love itself is inadequate to describe how I feel about you. You are everything. My whole heart. My one desire. My reason for drawing breath—” Henri kissed him vehemently. He didn’t ever want to let go. If death was lurking in every shadow, then let it witness this and envy the one thing it could not touch. Love. A force so strong that it would tether them together no matter what drove them apart.This leaves us with a rich, action-packed, dramatic, entertaining story & I think it’s Claire’s best book to date! And in her typical style, she delivers humor, heart & social commentary to make this story incredibly detailed, but not confusing. Every single chapter leaves you wanting more & every single character will grab ahold of your heart.
The kiss was slow and soft and sensual, conveying what words never could. That no matter what torture Henri had endured, they would never let it happen again. Because he was their king. Their lover. And they would fight for him until the last drop of blood was spilled.As I read this book, I gave Claire almost daily reading reactions. 😆 While the holidays stopped me from reading non-stop, I completely devoured this book. There were several late nights that turned into early mornings due to the classic "just one more chapter" phrase we've all fallen victim to, but I wouldn't have it any other way!
"...I will stand between divinity and death to keep you by my side. You are mine. No force of heaven or earth will take you from me.”Honestly, this book reads like a movie because of how high the stakes are in this story. You like romance? Action? Suspense? Intrigue? Mythology? Magic? Good, because Of Sky & Embers has all the above. I audibly gasped, dropped my kindle on the bed & threw my hands up in a "what?" reaction during one part... and then I ran to Claire's DMs to talk about it. 🤭 Just read Claire's books, trust me, you won't regret it. Her descriptions, character development, prose, etc. is fantastic.
Life was a divine tapestry of infinite threads. Each fiber a person, a choice, a moment, a memory. A collection of endless possibilities, experiences, and alternative endings. As each thread intertwined, the story would shift, shaping one’s identity and defining the purpose of the design. With each stitch, the pattern would evolve through joy and sorrows, love and loss. The gods loved nothing more than to create tension and tug on threads until they snapped. In this moment, it felt as if she were being given a taste of what it meant to play god.
December 18, 2024
You know when a book, a story and the characters all burrow so deep under your skin to take up residence and all you can think about, live and breathe is their world? Well, that's exactly what Claire Butlers' newest novel 'Of Sky and Embers' has done to me.
This is the second book in her Divine Tapestry series, and it packs a punch. I think I experienced every single emotion known to man within the pages. We pick up Henri, Malik, Thalia, Ele, and Kala's stories exactly where the first book left off, and from the very first word, you are taken on a magical yet fraught journey.
The overarching plot is a deadly trial between Kings, Henri's life in the balance at the sheer amount of people wanting the foreign King dead, and will do anything to achieve it. But with betrayals, secrets, and death in the mix, Henri's trust wavers, and he finds himself on a knife's edge.
With Gods and Goddesses playing their own game on the side, it's anyone's guess how this will end.
I read this book in one sitting, I couldn't put it down, I had to know what happened next. Once again, Claire's world building is exceptional and I was thrown back into the arid and unforgiving desert, I was next to our heroes as they fought battles, had soft moments and cried when they did. It's a powerful book that has a happily ever after, but not for everyone.
If you love:
⌛️ Found family
⌛️ Deadly trials
⌛️ Multiple POV
⌛️ Touch him and die
⌛️ MM with a side of MF and MMF
⌛️ Politics and intrigue
⌛️ Middle Eastern inspired world building
⌛️ Battles and epic fight scenes
⌛️ Elemental magic and Gods & Goddesses
then you need to read this series. If you enjoy fantasy, this is not to be missed. It is gritty, gorgeous, breaks your heart and puts its shattered pieces back together again, whole but never the same.
Thank you, Claire for giving me the incredible experience in reading 'Of Sky and Embers' prior to the official publishing date.
This is the second book in her Divine Tapestry series, and it packs a punch. I think I experienced every single emotion known to man within the pages. We pick up Henri, Malik, Thalia, Ele, and Kala's stories exactly where the first book left off, and from the very first word, you are taken on a magical yet fraught journey.
The overarching plot is a deadly trial between Kings, Henri's life in the balance at the sheer amount of people wanting the foreign King dead, and will do anything to achieve it. But with betrayals, secrets, and death in the mix, Henri's trust wavers, and he finds himself on a knife's edge.
With Gods and Goddesses playing their own game on the side, it's anyone's guess how this will end.
I read this book in one sitting, I couldn't put it down, I had to know what happened next. Once again, Claire's world building is exceptional and I was thrown back into the arid and unforgiving desert, I was next to our heroes as they fought battles, had soft moments and cried when they did. It's a powerful book that has a happily ever after, but not for everyone.
If you love:
⌛️ Found family
⌛️ Deadly trials
⌛️ Multiple POV
⌛️ Touch him and die
⌛️ MM with a side of MF and MMF
⌛️ Politics and intrigue
⌛️ Middle Eastern inspired world building
⌛️ Battles and epic fight scenes
⌛️ Elemental magic and Gods & Goddesses
then you need to read this series. If you enjoy fantasy, this is not to be missed. It is gritty, gorgeous, breaks your heart and puts its shattered pieces back together again, whole but never the same.
Thank you, Claire for giving me the incredible experience in reading 'Of Sky and Embers' prior to the official publishing date.
January 19, 2025
🐫💧🪷 ARC REVIEW: Of Sky & Embers by Claire Butler 🪷💧🐫
⭐️ 4.75
🌶 3
Claire knocked this one out of the park! It was phenomenal from start to finish.
OSAE picked up right where Of Sand & Silk (book 1) ended and didn't let me up for air. I read this almost in a single sitting because the action, intrigue and plot twists just kept coming.
I was so invested the whole way through - so much so that I nearly threw my kindle across the room on multiple occasions (thankfully, I resisted). I lost count of the times my heart plummeted and my stomach flip-flopped from the tension.
Merovia got so much bigger and d3adlier in this book. The expanded world building was beautifully done and was easily digestible. These middle-eastern inspired locations felt incredibly real and larger than life.
The action seriously ramped up, too. The battles, regardless of the number of characters involved, all felt epicly cinematic. I can't tell you how many times I gasped out loud.
Don't worry, the character growth and relationship developments were still very much present. I can't put into words how proud I am of this found family for loving each other so loyally through all the thr3ats and hardships. It was honestly beautiful to be a part of.
While I can't promise a HEA for everyone, the ending was incredibly satisfying and bitter-sweet. I definitely recommend joining Claire Butler's newsletter to get the bonus epilogue for fr33 - it answers the 1 remaining question of the story, so you won't want to miss out.
Overall, I absolutely loved and highly recommend the Divine Tapestry series (and the prequel Red Wood duology). These characters will remain with me for a long time.
I can't wait to see what happens in book 3 - an interconnected standalone in the Divine Tapestry series that will follow Kala and Ele as adults!
⭐️ 4.75
🌶 3
Claire knocked this one out of the park! It was phenomenal from start to finish.
OSAE picked up right where Of Sand & Silk (book 1) ended and didn't let me up for air. I read this almost in a single sitting because the action, intrigue and plot twists just kept coming.
I was so invested the whole way through - so much so that I nearly threw my kindle across the room on multiple occasions (thankfully, I resisted). I lost count of the times my heart plummeted and my stomach flip-flopped from the tension.
Merovia got so much bigger and d3adlier in this book. The expanded world building was beautifully done and was easily digestible. These middle-eastern inspired locations felt incredibly real and larger than life.
The action seriously ramped up, too. The battles, regardless of the number of characters involved, all felt epicly cinematic. I can't tell you how many times I gasped out loud.
Don't worry, the character growth and relationship developments were still very much present. I can't put into words how proud I am of this found family for loving each other so loyally through all the thr3ats and hardships. It was honestly beautiful to be a part of.
While I can't promise a HEA for everyone, the ending was incredibly satisfying and bitter-sweet. I definitely recommend joining Claire Butler's newsletter to get the bonus epilogue for fr33 - it answers the 1 remaining question of the story, so you won't want to miss out.
Overall, I absolutely loved and highly recommend the Divine Tapestry series (and the prequel Red Wood duology). These characters will remain with me for a long time.
I can't wait to see what happens in book 3 - an interconnected standalone in the Divine Tapestry series that will follow Kala and Ele as adults!
January 8, 2025
Thank you so much Claire Butler for the eARC of Of Sky and Embers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If you’ve been paying attention, you know that the first installment in The Divine Tapestry series by Claire Butler held me captive in its pages. Henry is such an interesting, complex character, and I was enthralled reading about his new life in the desert realm of Merovia. After reading the ending of Of Sand and Silk, I could hardly wait to binge Of Sky and Embers.
Before I even read the first chapter, I was mentally patting Claire Butler on the back for including a “who’s who” of all the gods and goddesses of Merovia. I always appreciate when authors include bonuses like this because, as much as I like to think I remember everything that happens in book 1, the reality is that I don’t, so the refresher is much appreciated!
Ok, now let’s discuss the book. This second installment was sooooo good. I love when stories surprise me with twists and turns and Of Sky and Embers had plenty of them🤯! Seriously, each time I had convinced myself that I knew where the story was going, Claire Butler proved me wrong. 😂 I was on the edge of my seat with all the high stakes action and spicy romance. I also loved that I could never be certain that all my favorite characters would make it to the end unscathed.
Ok, that ending! WHAT?!?! I. Was. Not. Prepared! When I say I did not see this coming, I mean I. Did. Not. See. This. Coming. To be honest, I’m still in shock and probably will be until I find out what’s in store for the characters next.
In the pages, you will find:
🐫One camel
🏜️Sand Magic
🤝Found Family
❎ Multiple points of view
🧞♂️Deities
❤️MM/MMF/MF romance
⚔️A deadly trial
📖An epic second installment
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
If you’ve been paying attention, you know that the first installment in The Divine Tapestry series by Claire Butler held me captive in its pages. Henry is such an interesting, complex character, and I was enthralled reading about his new life in the desert realm of Merovia. After reading the ending of Of Sand and Silk, I could hardly wait to binge Of Sky and Embers.
Before I even read the first chapter, I was mentally patting Claire Butler on the back for including a “who’s who” of all the gods and goddesses of Merovia. I always appreciate when authors include bonuses like this because, as much as I like to think I remember everything that happens in book 1, the reality is that I don’t, so the refresher is much appreciated!
Ok, now let’s discuss the book. This second installment was sooooo good. I love when stories surprise me with twists and turns and Of Sky and Embers had plenty of them🤯! Seriously, each time I had convinced myself that I knew where the story was going, Claire Butler proved me wrong. 😂 I was on the edge of my seat with all the high stakes action and spicy romance. I also loved that I could never be certain that all my favorite characters would make it to the end unscathed.
Ok, that ending! WHAT?!?! I. Was. Not. Prepared! When I say I did not see this coming, I mean I. Did. Not. See. This. Coming. To be honest, I’m still in shock and probably will be until I find out what’s in store for the characters next.
In the pages, you will find:
🐫One camel
🏜️Sand Magic
🤝Found Family
❎ Multiple points of view
🧞♂️Deities
❤️MM/MMF/MF romance
⚔️A deadly trial
📖An epic second installment
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
November 30, 2024
When Henri took claim of a foreign Merovian kingdom, he didn’t anticipate fighting in a deadly trial against the rival kings to retain his throne. Malik knows the odds of Henri surviving the summit are not in his favor, but he is prepared to sacrifice everything to ensure Henri survives. Tahlia cannot regret her choices but saving the king meant revealing herself to the gods that have hunted her for years. She owes them an eternity but wants to make what’s left of her mortal life count.
OF SKY & EMBERS is the second book in a Middle Eastern inspired world and it picks up where book one, Of Sand & Silk leaves off. The setting and world building is rich, vibrant, and well written. It is very easy to digest, so perfect for those new to the fantasy genre.
This novel is told in multiple POV, alternating amongst Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele, Kala, and Isa. Most of these characters were met in book one but there are some new faces here too. I really enjoyed the multiple POV as it helped shape the narrative as the story evolved, particularly given that not all of the characters were together throughout the duration of the story. Each character is well written and interesting - I definitely have a soft spot for each of them!
The plot contains many moving parts as each of the main characters’ arcs develop. OF SKY & EMBERS is filled with action (and some particularly harrowing scenes), clever (and heartbreaking) twists, and some spicy scenes.
The bonus extended epilogue was absolute perfection. I’d love to stay within this world and with these characters forever. Truly a must read! I’ll be keeping my eye out for whatever Claire chooses to write next!
I would like to thank the author, Claire Butler, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
OF SKY & EMBERS is the second book in a Middle Eastern inspired world and it picks up where book one, Of Sand & Silk leaves off. The setting and world building is rich, vibrant, and well written. It is very easy to digest, so perfect for those new to the fantasy genre.
This novel is told in multiple POV, alternating amongst Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele, Kala, and Isa. Most of these characters were met in book one but there are some new faces here too. I really enjoyed the multiple POV as it helped shape the narrative as the story evolved, particularly given that not all of the characters were together throughout the duration of the story. Each character is well written and interesting - I definitely have a soft spot for each of them!
The plot contains many moving parts as each of the main characters’ arcs develop. OF SKY & EMBERS is filled with action (and some particularly harrowing scenes), clever (and heartbreaking) twists, and some spicy scenes.
The bonus extended epilogue was absolute perfection. I’d love to stay within this world and with these characters forever. Truly a must read! I’ll be keeping my eye out for whatever Claire chooses to write next!
I would like to thank the author, Claire Butler, of this advanced digital copy for the opportunity to read this novel in exchange for an honest review! All opinions expressed are my own.
December 30, 2024
“The threads that had knotted together, tying them to each other, would never untangle.”
Of Sky and Embers, book 2 in the Divine Tapestries series, following Of Sand and Silk, is a spicy, adult, fantasy romance set in a Middle Eastern inspired world. Claire’s books are short and fast paced but really pack a punch with multi POV, found family, love triangles, battles, and betrayals.
This picked up right where Of Sand and Silk left off and hit the ground running. Claire does Multi POV so well! I really enjoyed all of them and it kept the story moving.
The ending sets up for a continuation in the same world, and if the focus is on the characters I think it’s on…. I can’t wait!
Thank you so much Claire Butler for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Tropes:
MM/MF/MMF romance
Why choose
Touch them and die
Sand magic
Found family
Bargains with gods
Favorite quotes:
“There are few things more frightening than a patient woman with endless time.”
“For her, he would brave any danger. For him, she would give her life without hesitation. That was the exquisite madness of love. Unspoken yet undeniable.”
“Henri, I am yours. There is no span of time or plane of existence where I do not love you. Love itself is inadequate to describe how I feel about you. You are everything. My whole heart. My one desire. My reason for drawing breath—”
“It was enough to make Henri believe in fate. That the gods were somehow weaving their threads together in the great tapestry of life.”
January 7, 2025
Format: 📱eBook 📱 (ARC)
Check TWs before reading. Must read Of Sand and Silk first.
Another incredible book by Butler, and an emotional and action-packed ending to Henri's story.
It's been a couple of days now since I finished reading this, and I still can't put into words my thoughts. It's an absolutely phenomenal read, building on the world Butler first presented to us in OSAS, adding in extra twists and turns, so much action and suspense, beautiful romance, delicious spice, and so many emotions that will have you torn between tossing your kindle across the room, and bawling your eyes out.
We dive right back in from the moment we leave our group in OSAS, and the action is happening from page one. You get sucked into the story, flipping through the pages just to read what happens to Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele and Kala. The development of our five core characters is phenomenal given the trials and tribulations they face in this book, as well as the world and the lore surrounding it.
As with Butler's books, she raises so many questions and theories as you read - some get answered, and some are left up in the air - but it's part of the hook that has you addicted to her books. There are also so many wonderful lines within this book - I think it has to be my most highlighted book in recent times. So many beautifully written sentences and descriptions that deliver the feels.
I am beyond looking forward to anything else Butler comes out with in this shared universe, and so beyond thankful to have discovered her writing. Camel for life!
Thank you to the author eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Check TWs before reading. Must read Of Sand and Silk first.
Another incredible book by Butler, and an emotional and action-packed ending to Henri's story.
It's been a couple of days now since I finished reading this, and I still can't put into words my thoughts. It's an absolutely phenomenal read, building on the world Butler first presented to us in OSAS, adding in extra twists and turns, so much action and suspense, beautiful romance, delicious spice, and so many emotions that will have you torn between tossing your kindle across the room, and bawling your eyes out.
We dive right back in from the moment we leave our group in OSAS, and the action is happening from page one. You get sucked into the story, flipping through the pages just to read what happens to Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele and Kala. The development of our five core characters is phenomenal given the trials and tribulations they face in this book, as well as the world and the lore surrounding it.
As with Butler's books, she raises so many questions and theories as you read - some get answered, and some are left up in the air - but it's part of the hook that has you addicted to her books. There are also so many wonderful lines within this book - I think it has to be my most highlighted book in recent times. So many beautifully written sentences and descriptions that deliver the feels.
I am beyond looking forward to anything else Butler comes out with in this shared universe, and so beyond thankful to have discovered her writing. Camel for life!
Thank you to the author eARC opportunity. These are my honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
January 4, 2025
I have so much to say about this book and wow I was blown away by the end and it just left me hanging there with a stunned face like WTH
Why? Why would you do this to us!
This book picks up right after where Of Sand and Silk finishes. You are in a whole other level of a roller coaster of events. It explains the history of the Gods. The action is like you are watching the movie Dune, it leaves you breathless. You see the characters live up to what they are supposed to do. Your heart breaks and mends with them. The new characters are as wonderful and intriguing. The relationship between Henry and Malik is top notch. The spice, tension and banter is wonderfully written. The world building is so well done. I absolutely recommend you read this book and be prepared for lots of tears and heart ache. I love Kala and Ele. As for Tahlia and Isa their union unravels in this wonderfully woven story of trust and sacrifice and I loved every minute of them.
Some charecters don’t get a HEA 😭😭 can’t wait to read more in this world.
The dedication is awesome 😍
For all the readers who saw the one camel trope and thought “I have to read this book!” And for Humphrey, the original camel.
My Favorite Quotes
“Did you think the gods a mere myth, boy?”
“Justice is the shadow of revenge.”
“A goddess belongs to no one. They cannot be claimed, only worshipped.”
“He was their king. Their lover. And they would fight for him until the last drop of blood was spilled.”
“Just because someone gives birth to you or gives you a name does not make them family.”
“I will stand between divinity and death to keep you by my side.”
“A sword gains its reputation from the one who wields it, not the one who forged it.”
“There is no line I am not willing to cross to save your life. If that makes me your hero or your villain, I don’t care, as long as I’m yours.”
“If you were given a second chance at life, what would you do with it?”
Why? Why would you do this to us!
This book picks up right after where Of Sand and Silk finishes. You are in a whole other level of a roller coaster of events. It explains the history of the Gods. The action is like you are watching the movie Dune, it leaves you breathless. You see the characters live up to what they are supposed to do. Your heart breaks and mends with them. The new characters are as wonderful and intriguing. The relationship between Henry and Malik is top notch. The spice, tension and banter is wonderfully written. The world building is so well done. I absolutely recommend you read this book and be prepared for lots of tears and heart ache. I love Kala and Ele. As for Tahlia and Isa their union unravels in this wonderfully woven story of trust and sacrifice and I loved every minute of them.
Some charecters don’t get a HEA 😭😭 can’t wait to read more in this world.
The dedication is awesome 😍
For all the readers who saw the one camel trope and thought “I have to read this book!” And for Humphrey, the original camel.
My Favorite Quotes
“Did you think the gods a mere myth, boy?”
“Justice is the shadow of revenge.”
“A goddess belongs to no one. They cannot be claimed, only worshipped.”
“He was their king. Their lover. And they would fight for him until the last drop of blood was spilled.”
“Just because someone gives birth to you or gives you a name does not make them family.”
“I will stand between divinity and death to keep you by my side.”
“A sword gains its reputation from the one who wields it, not the one who forged it.”
“There is no line I am not willing to cross to save your life. If that makes me your hero or your villain, I don’t care, as long as I’m yours.”
“If you were given a second chance at life, what would you do with it?”
February 8, 2025
🌟Arc Review🌟
Did not disappoint as a sequel. I did in fact cry three times from sheer emotional overload, it was great.
This book starts right where we left off the first one, and there's immediately plot and action and drama relentlessly. Something is always happening, if not politically then between characters. At parts it's so MESSY in the best way, I was extremely vibing during the middle part. Rarely am I continuously gagged by a book.
I still hold the characters very dear to my heart, even Malik, who I never really trusted fully. But his level of being down bad should be thaught and studied, I love it.
I truly admire Henri's complete disregard to his own safety and his ability to throw his life and the whole world at the feet of whoever can save his loved ones.
Tahlia remains one of my all time favourite characters. She's strong in a way that isn't typically allowed in mainstream fantasy. She can be terrified and devastated and dissociate through trauma, but she always pulls through and that's where her strenght is, not simply being a cutthroat badass.
The one dude I didn't really like was Isa, but that's purely a me thing, I understand his role in the narrative.
Considered giving 5 stars, but in the end it's a strong 4. The ending could've been a lot more in depth and emotional, fell kind of flat for me. But it set up a possibility for future books and I can't wait to read them if they happen.
Did not disappoint as a sequel. I did in fact cry three times from sheer emotional overload, it was great.
This book starts right where we left off the first one, and there's immediately plot and action and drama relentlessly. Something is always happening, if not politically then between characters. At parts it's so MESSY in the best way, I was extremely vibing during the middle part. Rarely am I continuously gagged by a book.
I still hold the characters very dear to my heart, even Malik, who I never really trusted fully. But his level of being down bad should be thaught and studied, I love it.
I truly admire Henri's complete disregard to his own safety and his ability to throw his life and the whole world at the feet of whoever can save his loved ones.
Tahlia remains one of my all time favourite characters. She's strong in a way that isn't typically allowed in mainstream fantasy. She can be terrified and devastated and dissociate through trauma, but she always pulls through and that's where her strenght is, not simply being a cutthroat badass.
The one dude I didn't really like was Isa, but that's purely a me thing, I understand his role in the narrative.
Considered giving 5 stars, but in the end it's a strong 4. The ending could've been a lot more in depth and emotional, fell kind of flat for me. But it set up a possibility for future books and I can't wait to read them if they happen.
December 23, 2024
5/⭐️ 3.5/🌶️ Of Sky and Embers by Claire Butler is book two in her Divine Tapestry series. I received an early copy of this novel and was so happy to get back into this world.
“The gods don’t forget, and they don’t forgive.”
We picked up right where we left off in book one, and you are dropped right into the action we left. Once again you also have multiple POVs for all the players and this is essential to the plot. You are given different perspectives to each situation and it helps put even more of the pieces together. Not just pieces of the plot together, but additional pieces to the characters. This is especially true of Tahlia. Yes, we were given some parts of her story in book one, but book two is really where we learn so much more about this fantastic character. Tahlia is an FMC that when she cares about people, she would truly do anything for them and their happiness. I really enjoyed her character immensely and through her character learning more about the magic system.
Claire provides us with a unique magic system in this story and it really shines in book two. The gods of this world I found very interesting and I hope we get even more of it in future books. Of course I cannot have a review of this story without Henri and Malik. These two MMCs and the love they have for one another was truly beautiful. The way their characters have developed and they make each other better people just by being together. All they want is for the other to succeed and be happy. I could not get enough of them and the chemistry between them was electric.
This story was well crafted with a great politically driven plot, romance, and spice. The spice! Let’s just say Claire will have you blushing in no time and clutching those pearls. I definitely recommend diving into this world. It will be available January 18th. Happy reading!
“The gods don’t forget, and they don’t forgive.”
We picked up right where we left off in book one, and you are dropped right into the action we left. Once again you also have multiple POVs for all the players and this is essential to the plot. You are given different perspectives to each situation and it helps put even more of the pieces together. Not just pieces of the plot together, but additional pieces to the characters. This is especially true of Tahlia. Yes, we were given some parts of her story in book one, but book two is really where we learn so much more about this fantastic character. Tahlia is an FMC that when she cares about people, she would truly do anything for them and their happiness. I really enjoyed her character immensely and through her character learning more about the magic system.
Claire provides us with a unique magic system in this story and it really shines in book two. The gods of this world I found very interesting and I hope we get even more of it in future books. Of course I cannot have a review of this story without Henri and Malik. These two MMCs and the love they have for one another was truly beautiful. The way their characters have developed and they make each other better people just by being together. All they want is for the other to succeed and be happy. I could not get enough of them and the chemistry between them was electric.
This story was well crafted with a great politically driven plot, romance, and spice. The spice! Let’s just say Claire will have you blushing in no time and clutching those pearls. I definitely recommend diving into this world. It will be available January 18th. Happy reading!
January 9, 2025
Of Sky & Embers is Book Two in The Divine Tapestry series and oh my gosh it was so good! I experienced all the emotions reading it, literally! I had tears in my eyes, I smiled, my heart broke, it was repaired and then it was ripped out! I’m not ok…still…and it’s been 4 days since I finished it!!!
Carrying on from book one Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele and Kala must cross the Idris desert so Henri can fight in a deadly trial to retain his throne. But the desert has many secrets and unexpected alliances—both mortal and divine—present themselves. Forcing Henri to face a harrowing choice: is the price of victory worth the cost?
Meanwhile Malik and Tahlia face their own fears. Malik is prepared to sacrifice everything to ensure Henri’s survival at the trial. Even if it means Henri will never forgive him. And Tahlia stole half a life, now she owes an eternity. With whatever fleeting mortal time she has left, she intends to make it count.
Set in a rich Middle Eastern inspired world, Of Sky & Embers is an adult fantasy romance filled with sand magic, deities, and plot twists…oh so many twists and turns! Butler is a fabulous storyteller, drawing you in through a mix of world building, politics, tension and multiple points of view. All with a pace that is on point.
This is a spicy MM, MF and MFM read and the tension between Henri and Malik especially was 🔥!
It’s one of those books that keeps you thinking long after you’ve finished it and I can’t wait for book three (please tell me there is another book coming), because I have questions I need answers too 😂
Thank you to Claire Butler for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
Carrying on from book one Henri, Malik, Tahlia, Ele and Kala must cross the Idris desert so Henri can fight in a deadly trial to retain his throne. But the desert has many secrets and unexpected alliances—both mortal and divine—present themselves. Forcing Henri to face a harrowing choice: is the price of victory worth the cost?
Meanwhile Malik and Tahlia face their own fears. Malik is prepared to sacrifice everything to ensure Henri’s survival at the trial. Even if it means Henri will never forgive him. And Tahlia stole half a life, now she owes an eternity. With whatever fleeting mortal time she has left, she intends to make it count.
Set in a rich Middle Eastern inspired world, Of Sky & Embers is an adult fantasy romance filled with sand magic, deities, and plot twists…oh so many twists and turns! Butler is a fabulous storyteller, drawing you in through a mix of world building, politics, tension and multiple points of view. All with a pace that is on point.
This is a spicy MM, MF and MFM read and the tension between Henri and Malik especially was 🔥!
It’s one of those books that keeps you thinking long after you’ve finished it and I can’t wait for book three (please tell me there is another book coming), because I have questions I need answers too 😂
Thank you to Claire Butler for an advanced copy to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 28, 2024
I devoured this one! It is so well written and full of so many feels. I laughed, swooned, teared up, got angry… it was an action packed emotional rollercoaster and I loved every minute of it.
This is the second book of The Divine Tapestry series and concludes Henri and Malik’s story. Claire does an amazing job of making you feel immersed in the story and completely invested in multiple characters with her use of multi POV. You’ll fall in love with more than the main characters guaranteed 🥹.
Without giving too much away since this is the second book, you will find deadly trials, deities, strong character development, and delicious romance. There’s so much palpable emotion and the devotion between the characters was totally swoon worthy. 😮💨 I seriously didn’t want it to end but I loved the epilogue and I’m super excited for what’s to come in this beautiful world.
I highly recommend you read Claire’s Red Wood duology first so you can get to know Henri and see more of his character development before jumping into this series. It’s absolutely not necessary/required, but OMG so worth it. That’s where I first fell in love with Henri’s character and it’s just such a fast and fun read (it’s a little over 500 pages with both books combined).
I highly recommend The Divine Tapestry series if you love:
🐫multi POV
🐫political intrigue
🐫MM/MMF/MF romance with spice 🌶️
🐫deadly trials
🐫found family
🐫deities
🐫middle eastern inspired world
✨I received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions on this book are my own and given voluntarily. ✨
This is the second book of The Divine Tapestry series and concludes Henri and Malik’s story. Claire does an amazing job of making you feel immersed in the story and completely invested in multiple characters with her use of multi POV. You’ll fall in love with more than the main characters guaranteed 🥹.
Without giving too much away since this is the second book, you will find deadly trials, deities, strong character development, and delicious romance. There’s so much palpable emotion and the devotion between the characters was totally swoon worthy. 😮💨 I seriously didn’t want it to end but I loved the epilogue and I’m super excited for what’s to come in this beautiful world.
I highly recommend you read Claire’s Red Wood duology first so you can get to know Henri and see more of his character development before jumping into this series. It’s absolutely not necessary/required, but OMG so worth it. That’s where I first fell in love with Henri’s character and it’s just such a fast and fun read (it’s a little over 500 pages with both books combined).
I highly recommend The Divine Tapestry series if you love:
🐫multi POV
🐫political intrigue
🐫MM/MMF/MF romance with spice 🌶️
🐫deadly trials
🐫found family
🐫deities
🐫middle eastern inspired world
✨I received an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions on this book are my own and given voluntarily. ✨
January 18, 2025
ARC REVIEW
"There is no line I am not willing to cross to save your life. If that makes me your hero or your villain, I don’t care, as long as I’m yours."
Henri and the crew meet the mysterious desert dwellers - and come face to face with an unexpected being. New alliances are tested at the king’s summit and Merovia will never be the same as reigns are tested and war will come for all.
This story continues through multiple POVs and expands the story even further than in book one. I ADORE Tahlia and Ele so much - a courtesan and a 10-year-old may be the strongest people in the entire country!
No one is safe from lies and deceit in this story. Loyalties are tested and fate comes for all. I loved seeing where everyone ended up and their journeys there - with all the twists and turns, I had NO IDEA what was coming up until the last page!
There was a new face and POV in this story that had me a giddy girl - this man is perfect. Did I mention that he has SAND MAGIC??? You need to come read this to see for yourself!
This is a lovely duology and the epilogue opens the door for another story in this intriguing world. I highly recommend this for fans of political intrigue, MFM romance, unique magic, and strong characters of all shapes and sizes!
"There is no line I am not willing to cross to save your life. If that makes me your hero or your villain, I don’t care, as long as I’m yours."
Henri and the crew meet the mysterious desert dwellers - and come face to face with an unexpected being. New alliances are tested at the king’s summit and Merovia will never be the same as reigns are tested and war will come for all.
This story continues through multiple POVs and expands the story even further than in book one. I ADORE Tahlia and Ele so much - a courtesan and a 10-year-old may be the strongest people in the entire country!
No one is safe from lies and deceit in this story. Loyalties are tested and fate comes for all. I loved seeing where everyone ended up and their journeys there - with all the twists and turns, I had NO IDEA what was coming up until the last page!
There was a new face and POV in this story that had me a giddy girl - this man is perfect. Did I mention that he has SAND MAGIC??? You need to come read this to see for yourself!
This is a lovely duology and the epilogue opens the door for another story in this intriguing world. I highly recommend this for fans of political intrigue, MFM romance, unique magic, and strong characters of all shapes and sizes!
February 5, 2025
OSAE is the second book in The Divine Tapestry series, and Claire really took us on a roller coaster ride with this one. Henri, one of the Merovian kings, is preparing to fight at the annual summit. If he fails, he'll lose both his kingdom and his life. But before he can even participate in the summit, Henri and his friends must survive a dangerous trip through the Idris desert, which features encounters with sand shifters and morally-grey deities.
I enjoyed book 1, but book 2 is really top tier. We get multiple 'one camel' scenes during the desert travels, and we get plenty of scenes that occur outside of Henri's city, which I found very intriguing. The stakes are higher, the danger is ever-present, and the spice is hot. There's betrayal, lust, love, mistrust, loyalty, and sacrifice. Claire's writing is excellent and her world-building is immersive. This is by no means a 'simple' book, but it was an easy read in the sense that the pacing and the plot were continually engaging.
Thank you to Claire Butler for the eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. OSAE was released on January 18th and is available now!
I enjoyed book 1, but book 2 is really top tier. We get multiple 'one camel' scenes during the desert travels, and we get plenty of scenes that occur outside of Henri's city, which I found very intriguing. The stakes are higher, the danger is ever-present, and the spice is hot. There's betrayal, lust, love, mistrust, loyalty, and sacrifice. Claire's writing is excellent and her world-building is immersive. This is by no means a 'simple' book, but it was an easy read in the sense that the pacing and the plot were continually engaging.
Thank you to Claire Butler for the eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review. OSAE was released on January 18th and is available now!
December 26, 2024
What can I say?? This book is a masterpiece!!
While I loved Of Sand and Silk, Of Sky and Embers just blowed my mind!!
Let's start with the characters: Oh how I love them! They were smart and strong in book 1, they grow fierce, badass, and stunning in this sequel!
I was litterally strucked by Tahlia: despite her past of courtesan, she evolves in another dimension, willing to do everything for her new family. Because yes, this is definitely a story about found family, and Oh my!!! I loved Ele and Kala so much, what amazing and brave they are, for such young kids! We meet Henri and Malik again, with such pleasure! I mean those guys, whom should be opposed in all the ways, are just the perfect match. Strength, commitment, and trust are some of the values they carry despite everything. And what about Isa, a new male, sand wielder (almost always naked may I precise...!), mysterious just as we like?!
The story is amazing as well, no time to get bored. We pick up right where book 1 ended, and we are thrown in a rollarcoaster of emotions, fear, stress, joy, sadness! Political intrigues, betrayals, doubts and plot twists all along!
The multi pov is great, adding a dimension when the characters are split from each other.
And this end??? Claire, wtf???!!
This is one of my best 2024 read, and I am so very happy and honored to get the opportunity to read this book as an ARC!
Just read this duology, because remember...the one camel trope :-)
While I loved Of Sand and Silk, Of Sky and Embers just blowed my mind!!
Let's start with the characters: Oh how I love them! They were smart and strong in book 1, they grow fierce, badass, and stunning in this sequel!
I was litterally strucked by Tahlia: despite her past of courtesan, she evolves in another dimension, willing to do everything for her new family. Because yes, this is definitely a story about found family, and Oh my!!! I loved Ele and Kala so much, what amazing and brave they are, for such young kids! We meet Henri and Malik again, with such pleasure! I mean those guys, whom should be opposed in all the ways, are just the perfect match. Strength, commitment, and trust are some of the values they carry despite everything. And what about Isa, a new male, sand wielder (almost always naked may I precise...!), mysterious just as we like?!
The story is amazing as well, no time to get bored. We pick up right where book 1 ended, and we are thrown in a rollarcoaster of emotions, fear, stress, joy, sadness! Political intrigues, betrayals, doubts and plot twists all along!
The multi pov is great, adding a dimension when the characters are split from each other.
And this end??? Claire, wtf???!!
This is one of my best 2024 read, and I am so very happy and honored to get the opportunity to read this book as an ARC!
Just read this duology, because remember...the one camel trope :-)
January 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
What a way to start the year!
This story had everything! Political intrigue, trials, betrayals, vengeance, revenge, love, and an epic plot with equally as epic plot twists that had me gasping out loud 😱
I could not put this thing down.
Of Sky & Embers is book 2 in the Divine Tapestries series and follows the gang's journey into the King's Summit after book 1 (Of Sand & Silk), and everything that happens during the Summit and afterwards.
I won't say anymore because I don't want to give the plot away, but just know it was pretty epic!
Claire's writing style is easy to read, yet her world building is strong and descriptive without making your brain hurt.
The way the story ended, I feel like it is potentially set up for a 3rd book, but more as an interconnected standalone/duology rather than a continuation of Henri, Malik, and Tahlia's story. It feels like a certain little pair of shadows aren't quite done and want their story to be next.....you catching my drift here, Claire? 😂
What a way to start the year!
This story had everything! Political intrigue, trials, betrayals, vengeance, revenge, love, and an epic plot with equally as epic plot twists that had me gasping out loud 😱
I could not put this thing down.
Of Sky & Embers is book 2 in the Divine Tapestries series and follows the gang's journey into the King's Summit after book 1 (Of Sand & Silk), and everything that happens during the Summit and afterwards.
I won't say anymore because I don't want to give the plot away, but just know it was pretty epic!
Claire's writing style is easy to read, yet her world building is strong and descriptive without making your brain hurt.
The way the story ended, I feel like it is potentially set up for a 3rd book, but more as an interconnected standalone/duology rather than a continuation of Henri, Malik, and Tahlia's story. It feels like a certain little pair of shadows aren't quite done and want their story to be next.....you catching my drift here, Claire? 😂
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