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Fate of the Acna #2
Air & Essence
For years, the vampires of Sanjry have called Dayanara a monster. Now they’ll learn just how terrifying she’s become. After losing so much, she’s faced with not only the consequences of her actions, but also those that came before her.
Dayanara will stop at nothing to get what’s been stolen from her, even at the expense of her well-being. Connections, both new and established, will be tested, as trust is hard-earned and quickly lost.
With enemies to the east and west, there aren’t many places to turn. Secrets that have lied dormant for thousands of years will be revealed, and not even Fate can stop what is to come. For Chaos is brewing, and he wears many faces.
Dayanara will stop at nothing to get what’s been stolen from her, even at the expense of her well-being. Connections, both new and established, will be tested, as trust is hard-earned and quickly lost.
With enemies to the east and west, there aren’t many places to turn. Secrets that have lied dormant for thousands of years will be revealed, and not even Fate can stop what is to come. For Chaos is brewing, and he wears many faces.
475 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2025
71 people are currently reading
388 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
March 5, 2025
Mikayla did it again! She really said, “Oh, you thought the first book was good? Just wait,” and delivered. This series is fast-paced, action-packed, and absolutely addicting. Mikayla has such a strong grasp of balancing plot, world-building, and character development, making every moment count. Not only do you fall hard for the main characters, but the side characters are just as strong and well-written and I need stories for all of them because I’m fully invested.
This book takes you through every emotion, grief, betrayal, happiness, heartbreak, and some seriously hot moments. You’ll cry, you’ll rage at the fools who dare to question Daya’s power, and you’ll feel like you’re right there in the fight alongside them. And let’s talk about the trust and deep connection being built in this throuple *bites fist* it’s just as beautiful as it is spicy. I’m obsessed with this series and need more ASAP!
This book takes you through every emotion, grief, betrayal, happiness, heartbreak, and some seriously hot moments. You’ll cry, you’ll rage at the fools who dare to question Daya’s power, and you’ll feel like you’re right there in the fight alongside them. And let’s talk about the trust and deep connection being built in this throuple *bites fist* it’s just as beautiful as it is spicy. I’m obsessed with this series and need more ASAP!
December 7, 2025
WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK?????
September 12, 2025
3.25⭐
I enjoyed this but I didn't *love* it like the first book. Honestly the writing was distracting — it felt very clunky/unpolished.
Just one example: "We'll move quicker, and there's a chance we'll have to leave them somewhere. These are two that don't have owners... anymore. Not to mention, we could have to leave them behind somewhere." ....What do you MEAN not to mention when you literally just mentioned that?! 🤨
Numerous sentences took me out of the story due to reading as if the wrong word had been entered because they just didn't make sense as they were.
I also didn't love the way Dayanara pushed Axel and Zuri to be physical together when they were blatantly hesitant/unenthusiastic about it. It seemed like they both would have preferred to share her without touching each other and they just went along with her fantasies for her sake, which was kind of a bummer.
Overall I enjoyed the way the story unfolded into the bigger picture and I was certainly entertained. This book wasn't my favorite but it definitely wasn't a bad time either.
I enjoyed this but I didn't *love* it like the first book. Honestly the writing was distracting — it felt very clunky/unpolished.
Just one example: "We'll move quicker, and there's a chance we'll have to leave them somewhere. These are two that don't have owners... anymore. Not to mention, we could have to leave them behind somewhere." ....What do you MEAN not to mention when you literally just mentioned that?! 🤨
Numerous sentences took me out of the story due to reading as if the wrong word had been entered because they just didn't make sense as they were.
I also didn't love the way Dayanara pushed Axel and Zuri to be physical together when they were blatantly hesitant/unenthusiastic about it. It seemed like they both would have preferred to share her without touching each other and they just went along with her fantasies for her sake, which was kind of a bummer.
Overall I enjoyed the way the story unfolded into the bigger picture and I was certainly entertained. This book wasn't my favorite but it definitely wasn't a bad time either.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
4.5 stars
The follow up to Blood & Brujas, Air & Essence sees us return to Malva, as we see Daya settle into her role as Acna, and continue her fight for her kingdom, her life, and her loves.
This was a great next book. The first book painted such a vivid picture of the world and the characters, and this second book builds in that so well, keeping you sucked into the story. It's multiple POV, with views from both protagonists and antagonists, something I've not really seen before but really appreciated.
Like the first book, this was action packed. There was always something happening, and it was unpredictable. There was also some good dark humour; Athena's fate in particular had me absolutely rolling, a great little break from the more serious tone of the majority of the book.
You see more of the romantic relationships too. It's still a why choose, and done very well; we see a lot more exploration of what that means and how that develops between all of them, rather than the usual state of 'everyone loves each other immediately'. It's a refreshing take which I liked, it felt more real. It's also spicier than the first, so be ready.
The tone of this book overall felt different to the first. Both have big stories of personal growth, but the big focus on this one has definitely been emotional healing. There's a lot of therapeutic language and healing moments for all of the main characters, and it's beautiful to see how they all help each other get to their best places.
Overall, a great addition to the series, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book, maybe even a linked series from the other side of the world?
The follow up to Blood & Brujas, Air & Essence sees us return to Malva, as we see Daya settle into her role as Acna, and continue her fight for her kingdom, her life, and her loves.
This was a great next book. The first book painted such a vivid picture of the world and the characters, and this second book builds in that so well, keeping you sucked into the story. It's multiple POV, with views from both protagonists and antagonists, something I've not really seen before but really appreciated.
Like the first book, this was action packed. There was always something happening, and it was unpredictable. There was also some good dark humour; Athena's fate in particular had me absolutely rolling, a great little break from the more serious tone of the majority of the book.
You see more of the romantic relationships too. It's still a why choose, and done very well; we see a lot more exploration of what that means and how that develops between all of them, rather than the usual state of 'everyone loves each other immediately'. It's a refreshing take which I liked, it felt more real. It's also spicier than the first, so be ready.
The tone of this book overall felt different to the first. Both have big stories of personal growth, but the big focus on this one has definitely been emotional healing. There's a lot of therapeutic language and healing moments for all of the main characters, and it's beautiful to see how they all help each other get to their best places.
Overall, a great addition to the series, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book, maybe even a linked series from the other side of the world?
March 31, 2025
ARC Review
Stars: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Darkness:Cloudy | Slate | Midnight | Obsidian
♥ MFF
♥ POC rep
♥ Hurt/Comfort
♥ Touch Her and Die
♥ Badass FMC
♥ Revenge
♥ Group Activities
♥ Grief
This book picks up exactly where B&B left off and thank whatever because I was STRESSED at the end of book one.
Actual depiction of me after reading book one:
Daya is everything I love in a FMC.
She's super powerful, incredibly strong (physically and mentally), ruthless, and most of all, she's flawed.
I loved getting to see her work through her intimacy and trust issues.
As someone who had only herself to rely on all of her life, Daya struggles with letting anyone get close and surrounded by love and support she is able to start a journey of healing.
Miscommunication trope who? We don't know her.
There is no shortage of meaningful and honest communication and omg is it refreshing.
You don't need a toxic relationship on top of trying to save the world.
That's just too much.
Speaking of toxic...
We get quite a bit of the King of Delulu himself...erhm, I mean Kaizer. Him and his stupid bob.
And while I hate him so much, he was so delusional that it was basically comic relief.
The battle scenes were so well done.
They were so detailed and I felt like I was watching a movie.
It is an absolute art form to be able to describe battle in a way that does not lose the reader and Mikayla could teach a master course.
I also really love that we didn't have the "inappropriate time for kissing in the middle of battle" trope.
Not gonna lie, some of the group activities were a little awkward just because of Zuri and Axel's lack of romantic relationship. It was kind of forced and while I completely understand why this needs to happen and is realistic to the situation. I am really looking forward to the future with less awkward threesomes. 😅
All in all, I think this was an excellent book that didn't succumb to the boring info dump filler sequel that so often happens in a fantasy series. This was action packed pretty much the whole way through.
Please note: my tags may contain spoilers
Stars: ★★★★★
Spice: 🌶🌶.5
Darkness:
♥ MFF
♥ POC rep
♥ Hurt/Comfort
♥ Touch Her and Die
♥ Badass FMC
♥ Revenge
♥ Group Activities
♥ Grief
"You don't understand the blood and the violence it took to get to this peaceful version of me.Mikayla definitely raised the stakes. Arms up because I just know we're in for a hell of a ride with the rest of this series.
I'll become the monster again, for my kingdom, for you."
You forget they fear me to. If you're lurking in the shadows, I'm there with you."
This book picks up exactly where B&B left off and thank whatever because I was STRESSED at the end of book one.
Actual depiction of me after reading book one:
Daya is everything I love in a FMC.
She's super powerful, incredibly strong (physically and mentally), ruthless, and most of all, she's flawed.
I loved getting to see her work through her intimacy and trust issues.
As someone who had only herself to rely on all of her life, Daya struggles with letting anyone get close and surrounded by love and support she is able to start a journey of healing.
"I love you, you know? Even when it didn't seem like I did. I promise that's true."
"I've never expected you to be someone you aren't. Love looks different for every person. I never doubted it."
Miscommunication trope who? We don't know her.
There is no shortage of meaningful and honest communication and omg is it refreshing.
You don't need a toxic relationship on top of trying to save the world.
That's just too much.
Speaking of toxic...
We get quite a bit of the King of Delulu himself...erhm, I mean Kaizer. Him and his stupid bob.
And while I hate him so much, he was so delusional that it was basically comic relief.
"It is nice to lay eyes on you once again, my bride."
"I'll pluck your eyes out of your fucking skull."
The battle scenes were so well done.
They were so detailed and I felt like I was watching a movie.
It is an absolute art form to be able to describe battle in a way that does not lose the reader and Mikayla could teach a master course.
I also really love that we didn't have the "inappropriate time for kissing in the middle of battle" trope.
Not gonna lie, some of the group activities were a little awkward just because of Zuri and Axel's lack of romantic relationship. It was kind of forced and while I completely understand why this needs to happen and is realistic to the situation. I am really looking forward to the future with less awkward threesomes. 😅
All in all, I think this was an excellent book that didn't succumb to the boring info dump filler sequel that so often happens in a fantasy series. This was action packed pretty much the whole way through.
Please note: my tags may contain spoilers
April 13, 2025
I loved Blood & Bruias but my time with Air & Essence (the second book in the Fate of the Acna series) was…interesting.
I had a good ass time though. The world building, although a little chaotic and vague, had some gems. I do see what Mikayla Hornedo was trying to do with this universe of vampires, lobos, and brujas. I was intrigued, a bit tight (lol), and amused while reading.
I'll keep this as spoiler free as I can. The plot grew on me more so when Axel and Dusra entered the chat. I felt the chemistry when Daya met Axel in that dark lit pub and the world building blossomed even more when we met Ax's council, family, and learned of the treaty. I am not a fan of Kaizer's ass and I will probably be cancelled for this, but I am a fan of Zuri as a separate character, and I wish this was explored more outside of Daya.
There were two deaths in Air & Essence that read so odd, and I felt those characters being written in as a "best friends" to our MCs made me start questioning everything. I struggled with how the romance played out. This being a Why Choose went completely over my head. It felt like an awkward, forced, yet hot three-some. Axel and Zuri don't have chemistry and if they do, Daya is the mf cheerleader. I wish we had more page time with the brujas. It would have been cool to explore the power structure within the covens and some individual brujas' stories more intimately.
Here's what I liked:
✨ The kingdom of fierce brujas: Caldera
✨ Axel. Dusra. Ishani and her blood magic. The twins.
✨ Daya's journey of coming into her own. From being her mother and Caldera's lethal weapon to thee goddess blessed Acna herself.
✨ Daya picking through her trauma as she fought to reclaim her individuality for her coven as a ruler.
✨Cat and Daya's friendship. Cat was loyal and cunning.
✨ The portal magic and the lobos. I loved the lobos. They needed more page time.
✨Brujas using crystals to heighten their magic.
✨ Daya is lethal, sexy, and not easily likeable. I love this in a female protagonist especially one with great power.
✨ Ancient and lethal beings secluded in a forrest that can grant wishes for a price.
Special thank you for my #ARC copy of Air & Essence! ❤️🔥
I had a good ass time though. The world building, although a little chaotic and vague, had some gems. I do see what Mikayla Hornedo was trying to do with this universe of vampires, lobos, and brujas. I was intrigued, a bit tight (lol), and amused while reading.
I'll keep this as spoiler free as I can. The plot grew on me more so when Axel and Dusra entered the chat. I felt the chemistry when Daya met Axel in that dark lit pub and the world building blossomed even more when we met Ax's council, family, and learned of the treaty. I am not a fan of Kaizer's ass and I will probably be cancelled for this, but I am a fan of Zuri as a separate character, and I wish this was explored more outside of Daya.
There were two deaths in Air & Essence that read so odd, and I felt those characters being written in as a "best friends" to our MCs made me start questioning everything. I struggled with how the romance played out. This being a Why Choose went completely over my head. It felt like an awkward, forced, yet hot three-some. Axel and Zuri don't have chemistry and if they do, Daya is the mf cheerleader. I wish we had more page time with the brujas. It would have been cool to explore the power structure within the covens and some individual brujas' stories more intimately.
Here's what I liked:
✨ The kingdom of fierce brujas: Caldera
✨ Axel. Dusra. Ishani and her blood magic. The twins.
✨ Daya's journey of coming into her own. From being her mother and Caldera's lethal weapon to thee goddess blessed Acna herself.
✨ Daya picking through her trauma as she fought to reclaim her individuality for her coven as a ruler.
✨Cat and Daya's friendship. Cat was loyal and cunning.
✨ The portal magic and the lobos. I loved the lobos. They needed more page time.
✨Brujas using crystals to heighten their magic.
✨ Daya is lethal, sexy, and not easily likeable. I love this in a female protagonist especially one with great power.
✨ Ancient and lethal beings secluded in a forrest that can grant wishes for a price.
Special thank you for my #ARC copy of Air & Essence! ❤️🔥
March 7, 2025
I LOVE DAYA! That could be my review. I love this character so much, she feels real. She has doubts, worries, secrets, loves so fiercely and yet takes what she wants (with consent!).
This was a much more epic story than I expected, in the best way possible. The story itself moved from two sides warring against each other to a much bigger cosmological fight and I’m here for it. But I’ll be honest, I continue to read because of the characters.
The found family in this series is beautiful, there were scenes that brought me to tears. It was amazing to see a family dynamic that wasn’t toxic but full of love, warmth and tenderness. Parents who didn’t care for their child were no hetero and welcomed her partner(s) into their family.
I greatly enjoyed each characters’ journey, especially Daya and Zuri who had to navigate trust issues, love and much more. It was beautiful and raw.
I can’t wait for book 3 because the cliffhanger was so good!
This was a much more epic story than I expected, in the best way possible. The story itself moved from two sides warring against each other to a much bigger cosmological fight and I’m here for it. But I’ll be honest, I continue to read because of the characters.
The found family in this series is beautiful, there were scenes that brought me to tears. It was amazing to see a family dynamic that wasn’t toxic but full of love, warmth and tenderness. Parents who didn’t care for their child were no hetero and welcomed her partner(s) into their family.
I greatly enjoyed each characters’ journey, especially Daya and Zuri who had to navigate trust issues, love and much more. It was beautiful and raw.
I can’t wait for book 3 because the cliffhanger was so good!
May 20, 2025
Couldn't wait to get my hands on a physical copy of this book since I loved Blood and Brujas so much. I felt like this book, you received more. More action. More violence. More spice.
Daya will always be one of my favorite FMCs. She is fierce. She doesn't care what you think. She loves hard. Fights hard. She gets the job done. There were a few twists & turns in this book and I really didn't know what to expect in the end. I loved the character development in this one & the different POVs. And the magic system stayed magical!
The pacing is a bit slower for this book, but I still enjoyed! I did take my time reading this one because I want to feel the setting/atmosphere & not miss a detail.
The way I hollered at one point... Why oh whyyyy her?! 😫
I cannot wait to see what else Mikayla D Hornendo has in store for us as we continue this series! One of my favorite authors, for sure!
Daya will always be one of my favorite FMCs. She is fierce. She doesn't care what you think. She loves hard. Fights hard. She gets the job done. There were a few twists & turns in this book and I really didn't know what to expect in the end. I loved the character development in this one & the different POVs. And the magic system stayed magical!
The pacing is a bit slower for this book, but I still enjoyed! I did take my time reading this one because I want to feel the setting/atmosphere & not miss a detail.
The way I hollered at one point... Why oh whyyyy her?! 😫
I cannot wait to see what else Mikayla D Hornendo has in store for us as we continue this series! One of my favorite authors, for sure!
March 28, 2025
Wow wow wow wow wow wow. What a follow up from Blood & Brujas. Wow. How Mikayla manages to have me gasping for air, wanting to put up post-it notes cause I wanna figure out this new mystery character, giggling and screaming, and somehow sobbing. Like omg the emotions I went through with Air and Essence. Wow. I can’t stop saying wow. I feel like all my deep thoughts are heavy spoilers. But the beauty of love, family, and grief in this book were wonderful. I adored seeing Daya get loved on. The action was superb. I was completely entranced. I also may have a new crush. I know I shouldn’t but I do. So I’m really excited for the next book I just have a feeling like this is just the tip of the iceberg and I’m curious to see where we go from here.
Thank you Mikayla for the ARC.
Thank you Mikayla for the ARC.
April 16, 2025
Book 2 in this series was fast paced from start to finish. It was great to see the relationships develop and grow. Daya continued to be incredibly powerful & I admire her confidence.
It was impressive to have such an epic battle in book 2 and have it feel natural.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Recommended if you like:
strong characters, diverse rep, multiple POV, vivid magic, no love triangle, epic fighting
It was impressive to have such an epic battle in book 2 and have it feel natural.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
Recommended if you like:
strong characters, diverse rep, multiple POV, vivid magic, no love triangle, epic fighting
December 27, 2025
I’m very thankful to have received this as an ARC, though I am late in reviewing it. This sequel is very entertaining and the tension continues to build! The characters are humorous and have great banter. I enjoy that they talk and think like modern people, even though this is fantasy and that language isn’t always common. This book is multiple POVs and the action keeps coming, so I’d definitely say this is a medium/fast paced novel. Great follow up to Blood & Brujas!!
March 11, 2025
Absolutely stunning, five stars. So much development. There were some areas that I felt were a little long, but I could appreciate the banter and development of the characters overall. I need moreeeeee. 😭
April 1, 2025
Thank you Mikayla for the ARC of this book!!
Man, I love Daya. She’s terrifying and amazing in all of the best ways. But MIKAYLA LET THE GIRL CATCH A BREAK. Every time she starts to experience joy she gets slapped in the face with more trauma. Let my girl live her LIFE.
I love how unhinged the villains are in this series. Different interpretations of unhinged, but still an accurate description.
Sweet baby Zuri has never done anything wrong ever, Paxx is underrated, and we LOVE to see men who talk about their feelings and emotions!! All of them!! Therapy definitely exists in this universe and the men actually attend.
And Athena 👀👀🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ That’s that. Sometimes things work themselves out after all.
I’m so ready for the next one, but LORD Daya deserves a break!! Even a tiny one!!!
Man, I love Daya. She’s terrifying and amazing in all of the best ways. But MIKAYLA LET THE GIRL CATCH A BREAK. Every time she starts to experience joy she gets slapped in the face with more trauma. Let my girl live her LIFE.
I love how unhinged the villains are in this series. Different interpretations of unhinged, but still an accurate description.
Sweet baby Zuri has never done anything wrong ever, Paxx is underrated, and we LOVE to see men who talk about their feelings and emotions!! All of them!! Therapy definitely exists in this universe and the men actually attend.
And Athena 👀👀🤷🏻♀️🤷🏻♀️ That’s that. Sometimes things work themselves out after all.
I’m so ready for the next one, but LORD Daya deserves a break!! Even a tiny one!!!
April 14, 2025
This is so much more well written than the first book, really impressed by the improvement! I really like the characters, and especially the main protagonist, our bisexual queen. Love the way they explore her relationships and her persona, and I like where the story is heading.
July 5, 2025
“I knew better than most that sometimes the scars on the soul were far worse than the ones on the body.”
rtc, i need to process..
rtc, i need to process..
July 12, 2025
This was so good! Absolutely loved all the characters ❤️ looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 1, 2025
The emotional rollercoaster that this book put me through 🎢 I cried, screamed, fanned myself 🤣 I am obsessed with Axel. I would die for the lobos. And THE ENDING!?
March 31, 2025
So firstly, I wanted to start by thanking you Mikayla for the ARC copy of Air and Essence!
If you haven’t read Blood and Brujas, you need to! Now onto my review of Air and Essence, We love our Bisexual Queen Daya (Dayanara)! Now, Daya is a BAD ASS woman who just NEVER gets a break.. REAL ASF. In book 2, you get to see more of her development with Zuri and Axel as well as her own personal character development. Speaking of Zuri and Axel, this is a Why Choose book and we all love a why choose don’t we !! The group activities in this book.. let’s just say get ready to be steamy in the best way possible.
The emotion this book made me feel is insane, you get trauma slapped ALOT but can we also give these characters credit on the ability to communicate issues, concerns or trauma. It is a different type of healing for me personally as well as the characters you’ll meet in Air and Essence, without spoiling anything for you all about to journey back into the world of Malva! ◡̈
Brace yourselves for action, heartbreak, new characters 👀 and the multiple POVs we get in this 2nd book. Hell, even I was laughing at some parts, cussing through tears in another and blushing in others! That’s what you get when reading Mikayla’s books, and she does not disappoint!
I am so excited for book 3 and am very sad this second book has come to an end so soon!! I am very jealous of those who will be experiencing this book/series for the first time but enjoy the wild ride Mikayla gives you!
If you haven’t read Blood and Brujas, you need to! Now onto my review of Air and Essence, We love our Bisexual Queen Daya (Dayanara)! Now, Daya is a BAD ASS woman who just NEVER gets a break.. REAL ASF. In book 2, you get to see more of her development with Zuri and Axel as well as her own personal character development. Speaking of Zuri and Axel, this is a Why Choose book and we all love a why choose don’t we !! The group activities in this book.. let’s just say get ready to be steamy in the best way possible.
The emotion this book made me feel is insane, you get trauma slapped ALOT but can we also give these characters credit on the ability to communicate issues, concerns or trauma. It is a different type of healing for me personally as well as the characters you’ll meet in Air and Essence, without spoiling anything for you all about to journey back into the world of Malva! ◡̈
Brace yourselves for action, heartbreak, new characters 👀 and the multiple POVs we get in this 2nd book. Hell, even I was laughing at some parts, cussing through tears in another and blushing in others! That’s what you get when reading Mikayla’s books, and she does not disappoint!
I am so excited for book 3 and am very sad this second book has come to an end so soon!! I am very jealous of those who will be experiencing this book/series for the first time but enjoy the wild ride Mikayla gives you!
April 17, 2025
My bb Dayanara 🫠🖤 the morally gray bi witch of my dreams.
This series is jam packed with action, magic, world building, and plot twists. Daya really goes through it all, with big wins, betrayals, heartbreak, love, and power.
I love that this series is a fantasy why choose with both male and female love interests. I love Ax, but it makes me so happy to find a why choose with more than one woman in it.
This series does have to be read in order, but it’s so good!! Go read it.
Highlights:
- Why Choose (MFF & FF)
- Bi FMC
- Witches, Vampires, Wolf Shifters
- Elemental Magic
- Everyone is morally gray
- Queer normative world
- Non-Eurocentric world
- BIPOC main characters
Note: I received an advance copy from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
This series is jam packed with action, magic, world building, and plot twists. Daya really goes through it all, with big wins, betrayals, heartbreak, love, and power.
I love that this series is a fantasy why choose with both male and female love interests. I love Ax, but it makes me so happy to find a why choose with more than one woman in it.
This series does have to be read in order, but it’s so good!! Go read it.
Highlights:
- Why Choose (MFF & FF)
- Bi FMC
- Witches, Vampires, Wolf Shifters
- Elemental Magic
- Everyone is morally gray
- Queer normative world
- Non-Eurocentric world
- BIPOC main characters
Note: I received an advance copy from the author. Decision to read/review was my own. Opinion is my own.
March 30, 2025
Absolutely loved coming back to Daya’s story and learning more about this world. Seeing her fight so hard for Zuri and explore her relationship with both Zuri and Axel was so engaging and had me on the edge of my seat.
Full of magic, witches, shifters, and vampires this is a steamy why choose dark fantasy.
Thank you Mikayla for an ARC 💕
Full of magic, witches, shifters, and vampires this is a steamy why choose dark fantasy.
Thank you Mikayla for an ARC 💕
March 5, 2025
The perfect sequel to a phenomenal series!!! Mikayla really hit it out of the park with this one! The story picks up right where we last left off, and the stakes, the romance, the action, the humor, the spice, the devastation and the passion are all amplified! There was so much growth in both the characters and the plot! Daya is EVERYTHING!!! She’s so badass, sassy, funny, loyal and strong! And, that why-choose trope, was in full effect with this one ❤️🔥🥵❤️🔥 absolute perfection!!! I think Axel may be my favorite MMC ever, nothing but green flags from this man! We are left with some slight calmness at the end, with a light little cliffhanger, that only makes me anxious for what’s to come!!! I am, not so patiently, pining for the next book!!
Thank you Mikayla, for providing me an ARC and for writing this incredible, epic series!
Thank you Mikayla, for providing me an ARC and for writing this incredible, epic series!
March 5, 2025
Eeeeeee congratulations Mikayla!
This is the sequel to Blood & Broojas which everyone needs to go read right now….but it was fantastic!!! These are very fast past romantasy books, but the plot is never sacrificed for the romance and I love that.
Following Blood & Brujas was no easy task because that book was so good, but this did not disappoint.
Badass FMCS, badass side characters, badass everyone!
Already looking forward to the next book!
Thank you for the ARC✨
This is the sequel to Blood & Broojas which everyone needs to go read right now….but it was fantastic!!! These are very fast past romantasy books, but the plot is never sacrificed for the romance and I love that.
Following Blood & Brujas was no easy task because that book was so good, but this did not disappoint.
Badass FMCS, badass side characters, badass everyone!
Already looking forward to the next book!
Thank you for the ARC✨
May 20, 2025
This story was an adventure getting to read . it was a perfectly sequel to blood & brujas. it had some great story telling and had me excited to dive back into , and it took me on a fun ride getting to read this. I enjoyed reading every second of this read and had a great time reading it.
August 15, 2025
Review to come
April 1, 2025
I just finished reading Air and Essence, the second book in Mikayla Hornedo’s Fate of the Acna series, and wow—I'm unwell! Just ask the author, I literally sent a video of myself sobbing about a scene to her DMs. I was lucky to receive a PR box so I annotated the shit out of this book and was so stoked to be back with my girls Zuri and Daya, and Axel I guess!
From the very first page, I was reminded of why I fell in love with this series in the first place. Dayanara is a force to be reckoned with, and her transformation into a powerful leader is both inspiring and empowering. We see her strength and resilience in a way that had me both cursing Mikayla out and praying her pillow would always be cold.
But seriously, Hornedo's writing is nothing short of mesmerizing. The prose is highlight worthy and immersive—it got me swept up in my feels and left me breathless at times. I wanted to throw the book, I cried, I cursed, I held my breath. I found myself fully invested in Daya and the Bruja's quest to reclaim what has been stolen from her, feeling every ounce of her determination while navigating a world filled with betrayal and danger.
One of the best parts of the romance part of the romantasy was seeing the pieces come together for Daya and Zuri, Daya and Axel and more...Learning more about their backstories added such richness to the narrative and really helped me to understand the animosity. The themes of forgiveness and the evolution of love resonate deeply and elevate the story beyond just a gotta kill the bad guys plot.
I am constantly amazed at how Hornedo balances the fast-paced action with profound emotional depth. This book had me on an emotional roller coaster—one moment I was pounding the couch with my fists, and the next, I was holding back tears (jk I was fully sobbing). Daya's journey is relatable and vulnerable, she's fucking funny in the face of all the horrifying shit she experiences.
Listen the things you need to know are that I highlighted so much of this book because Hornedo's words are powerful and are things I will hold in my heart as I fight for my own freedoms in the real world while Daya, Zuri and Axel fight for theirs in Sanjry. Hornedo’s writing resonates powerfully, serving as an allegory for the struggles faced by many marginalized individuals. Through Daya, we see the embodiment of raw power, consuming rage, heartbreaking devastation, and unwavering resilience. Hornedo eloquently voices the emotions that so many of us grapple with but often struggle to articulate, making Daya’s journey a mirror reflecting our own battles. She reminds us that, despite the weight of oppression and loss, we must harness our strength, embrace our voices, and continue fighting for our rightful place in the world as queer folks, trans folks, Black and Brown folks, disabled folks, and so many other marginalized identities. In Daya’s fight, we find our own, encouraging us to rise against adversity with unyielding determination.
From the very first page, I was reminded of why I fell in love with this series in the first place. Dayanara is a force to be reckoned with, and her transformation into a powerful leader is both inspiring and empowering. We see her strength and resilience in a way that had me both cursing Mikayla out and praying her pillow would always be cold.
But seriously, Hornedo's writing is nothing short of mesmerizing. The prose is highlight worthy and immersive—it got me swept up in my feels and left me breathless at times. I wanted to throw the book, I cried, I cursed, I held my breath. I found myself fully invested in Daya and the Bruja's quest to reclaim what has been stolen from her, feeling every ounce of her determination while navigating a world filled with betrayal and danger.
One of the best parts of the romance part of the romantasy was seeing the pieces come together for Daya and Zuri, Daya and Axel and more...Learning more about their backstories added such richness to the narrative and really helped me to understand the animosity. The themes of forgiveness and the evolution of love resonate deeply and elevate the story beyond just a gotta kill the bad guys plot.
I am constantly amazed at how Hornedo balances the fast-paced action with profound emotional depth. This book had me on an emotional roller coaster—one moment I was pounding the couch with my fists, and the next, I was holding back tears (jk I was fully sobbing). Daya's journey is relatable and vulnerable, she's fucking funny in the face of all the horrifying shit she experiences.
Listen the things you need to know are that I highlighted so much of this book because Hornedo's words are powerful and are things I will hold in my heart as I fight for my own freedoms in the real world while Daya, Zuri and Axel fight for theirs in Sanjry. Hornedo’s writing resonates powerfully, serving as an allegory for the struggles faced by many marginalized individuals. Through Daya, we see the embodiment of raw power, consuming rage, heartbreaking devastation, and unwavering resilience. Hornedo eloquently voices the emotions that so many of us grapple with but often struggle to articulate, making Daya’s journey a mirror reflecting our own battles. She reminds us that, despite the weight of oppression and loss, we must harness our strength, embrace our voices, and continue fighting for our rightful place in the world as queer folks, trans folks, Black and Brown folks, disabled folks, and so many other marginalized identities. In Daya’s fight, we find our own, encouraging us to rise against adversity with unyielding determination.
March 27, 2025
Thank you to author Mikayla Hornedo for providing me with an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I rated this book 5 stars. Holy shit what a ride—if I thought book 1 was action-packed with twists, turns, and steamy spice, I sure wasn’t ready for book 2! I devoured this in a single day. The writing was incredibly easy to get lost in, and the plot was so compelling that I flew through the pages without even realizing.
But let’s be honest—it’s not just the plot that makes this series sing, it’s the characters. We get to see so much more of our favorites from book one and watch as their relationships deepen, evolve, and get even messier in all the best ways. The elemental magic system continues to shine, especially with how it ties so deeply into the various people, cultures, and behaviors in this world. It feels intentional and so thoughtfully crafted.
Emotionally, this book took me for a ride. I was heartbroken, swooning, and yes—blushing. The spice in this one? Immaculate. We are talking group activities, sharing is caring, and all done in ways that still feel emotionally grounded and character-driven. I also love how trauma and healing are handled—characters who communicate and clearly have been to therapy? Yes, please.
The multiple POVs in this sequel were such a great addition, giving more depth to the narrative and opening up the story to broader stakes and richer insights beyond Daya’s perspective.
My only complaint is that I don’t already have the next book. I’m obsessed with this chaotic book thruple and the fate of Iteria, and I cannot wait to see what Mikayla Hornedo has in store for us next.
Follow me on Instagram and TikTok @mythicalreadsreviewer for more reviews!
April 1, 2025
If you thought book one was great, have you met book two? Absolutely mind-blowing. I loved everything about it: more character development, more plot twists, more secrets, more action, WAY more spice (like, A LOT more), and it was pure chef’s kiss, straight-up fire. Let’s just say it’s more EVERYTHING! 🔥
The emotional healing in this one hit so hard. Mikayla completely wrecked me with the first few chapters following right after book one. I was ugly crying over the family trauma and all I can say is if you want my thoughts on Señora Amapola: Worst mother of the century! #QueChingueASuMadre. I may or may not have taken Daya’s trauma on a personal level. Who am I kidding, I took it very personally.
Dayanara is a freaking goddess, La AMO! Strong, fierce and once she can be herself without her mother’s shadow, she is an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.
Axel! YES! Zuri! Double YES! The connection between Daya, Zuri, and Axel? It is straight perfection. The banter, the longing, the intimacy, it’s all so beautifully written, and I need more of these three because I just cannot get enough. And Paxx, oh sweet Paxx, I need way more of him. A side story? A backstory? Something? Anything? Please, Mikayla, I’m begging: Give. Me. More!
Now, I know I said this before, but if I was on the fence about Kaiser, let there be no doubt. HOLY F*CK. Yeah, this man is straight-up kookoo for cocoa puffs delulu. Like, yes, he’s hot, but please get him some therapy first, pobrecito (the secondhand embarrassment is too real). And Chuah? I need more of him. I know he’s probably going to be a little (or a lot) kookoo too, but maybe less delulu? Idk, but I cannot wait to find out because I can already tell that final boss battle it’s going to be EPIC, and I want front-row seats, VIP backstage access with popcorn in hand…I am ready for it! 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you for the ARC! I enjoyed every second of it. all opinions are my own.
The emotional healing in this one hit so hard. Mikayla completely wrecked me with the first few chapters following right after book one. I was ugly crying over the family trauma and all I can say is if you want my thoughts on Señora Amapola: Worst mother of the century! #QueChingueASuMadre. I may or may not have taken Daya’s trauma on a personal level. Who am I kidding, I took it very personally.
Dayanara is a freaking goddess, La AMO! Strong, fierce and once she can be herself without her mother’s shadow, she is an unstoppable force to be reckoned with.
Axel! YES! Zuri! Double YES! The connection between Daya, Zuri, and Axel? It is straight perfection. The banter, the longing, the intimacy, it’s all so beautifully written, and I need more of these three because I just cannot get enough. And Paxx, oh sweet Paxx, I need way more of him. A side story? A backstory? Something? Anything? Please, Mikayla, I’m begging: Give. Me. More!
Now, I know I said this before, but if I was on the fence about Kaiser, let there be no doubt. HOLY F*CK. Yeah, this man is straight-up kookoo for cocoa puffs delulu. Like, yes, he’s hot, but please get him some therapy first, pobrecito (the secondhand embarrassment is too real). And Chuah? I need more of him. I know he’s probably going to be a little (or a lot) kookoo too, but maybe less delulu? Idk, but I cannot wait to find out because I can already tell that final boss battle it’s going to be EPIC, and I want front-row seats, VIP backstage access with popcorn in hand…I am ready for it! 🔥🔥🔥
Thank you for the ARC! I enjoyed every second of it. all opinions are my own.
March 30, 2025
✨𝒜𝑅𝒞 𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌✨
📖: Air & Essence (Fate of the Acna Book 2)
“𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦.”
Air & Essence picks up immediately following the *events* of Book 1. Daya, reeling from deep betrayals of those closest to her, sets out on a mission with her new unexpected allies.
In the race to gain the upper hand in the inevitable war and the looming prophecy, Daya must face dēadly consequences and dangerous quests.
Tropes:
👀Multi POV
💪🏻Fierce witch FMC
💕Why Choose
🩶Morally grey MCs
💫Elemental magic
✨Group activities
⚔️Battles
🌶️: open door
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
This story further expands of Inbetween's origin, mythology of Goddesses, and magical artifacts.
In the struggle for power and survival, Daya stands poised to fight for her people. I love her confidence, fierceness, and penchant for violencē. Her potential love interests embrace her sharp edges and unapologetic nature. As her connections deepen, will Daya open herself to trust and love again?
The connections fostered are intricately explored between the love interests and found family. The character development shines throughout this series and I loved the multiple POVs of these characters bound by fate and circumstance.
I was gifted with some *memorable* [redacted] scenes that had me melting, declarations that had me swooning, and reveals that left me gasping.
Air & Essence is an action-packed, high-stakes sequel brimming with multidimensional characters, thrilling magic, and a steamy why choose romance!
Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
📖: Air & Essence (Fate of the Acna Book 2)
“𝘐 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦.”
Air & Essence picks up immediately following the *events* of Book 1. Daya, reeling from deep betrayals of those closest to her, sets out on a mission with her new unexpected allies.
In the race to gain the upper hand in the inevitable war and the looming prophecy, Daya must face dēadly consequences and dangerous quests.
Tropes:
👀Multi POV
💪🏻Fierce witch FMC
💕Why Choose
🩶Morally grey MCs
💫Elemental magic
✨Group activities
⚔️Battles
🌶️: open door
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘭𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐’𝘮 𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘐𝘵’𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶.”
This story further expands of Inbetween's origin, mythology of Goddesses, and magical artifacts.
In the struggle for power and survival, Daya stands poised to fight for her people. I love her confidence, fierceness, and penchant for violencē. Her potential love interests embrace her sharp edges and unapologetic nature. As her connections deepen, will Daya open herself to trust and love again?
The connections fostered are intricately explored between the love interests and found family. The character development shines throughout this series and I loved the multiple POVs of these characters bound by fate and circumstance.
I was gifted with some *memorable* [redacted] scenes that had me melting, declarations that had me swooning, and reveals that left me gasping.
Air & Essence is an action-packed, high-stakes sequel brimming with multidimensional characters, thrilling magic, and a steamy why choose romance!
Huge thanks to the author for the ARC opportunity! This is my honest and voluntary review.
April 4, 2025
"I'll become that monster again, for my kingdom, for you."
⚠️ There are some B&B spoilers in my review for the end of that book- proceed with caution! ⚠️ (and if you haven’t read Blood and Brujas…. Do that!!)
Mikayla really said Daya is for the why chose bisexuals 🙂↕️I've been ready to return to Mikayla's world since I finished Blood and Brujas a few months ago- and she did NOOOOT disappoint.
We get so much healing and growing, and... a lot of just generally figuring out what life looks like after (first book spoilers!!) your mom tries to kill you, you're betrayed by almost everyone you thought you knew, you lose your homeland, and then your gf (ex gf???) is kidnapped. OH and don't forget your fiance (ew, not fiance) is trying to manipulate lovingly convince you into come back to aforementioned lost homeland where said betrayal happened by kidnapping the not currently my girlfriend. Daya is really going through some stuff, and she's doing her best.
I especially loved how Daya and Ax discuss their complicated relationship, and how Daya is very firm in her complicated relationship about Zuri too. Watching them all navigate and stumble and figure out the new relationship in place between them was one of my favorite parts of the book- and is something I feel is often missing from WC and Poly plot lines in the books that I read, and i loved it!
I LOVED EVERYTHING, and thought it was written so well and does justice to complicated feelings, and the communication needed between all of the characters to work through those complicated feelings.
DEFINTELYYYY pick up this second book if you loved the first book.
I received an arc of this book from Mikayla (thank you!!!!) all opinions expressed are my own.
⚠️ There are some B&B spoilers in my review for the end of that book- proceed with caution! ⚠️ (and if you haven’t read Blood and Brujas…. Do that!!)
Mikayla really said Daya is for the why chose bisexuals 🙂↕️I've been ready to return to Mikayla's world since I finished Blood and Brujas a few months ago- and she did NOOOOT disappoint.
We get so much healing and growing, and... a lot of just generally figuring out what life looks like after (first book spoilers!!) your mom tries to kill you, you're betrayed by almost everyone you thought you knew, you lose your homeland, and then your gf (ex gf???) is kidnapped. OH and don't forget your fiance (ew, not fiance) is trying to manipulate lovingly convince you into come back to aforementioned lost homeland where said betrayal happened by kidnapping the not currently my girlfriend. Daya is really going through some stuff, and she's doing her best.
I especially loved how Daya and Ax discuss their complicated relationship, and how Daya is very firm in her complicated relationship about Zuri too. Watching them all navigate and stumble and figure out the new relationship in place between them was one of my favorite parts of the book- and is something I feel is often missing from WC and Poly plot lines in the books that I read, and i loved it!
I LOVED EVERYTHING, and thought it was written so well and does justice to complicated feelings, and the communication needed between all of the characters to work through those complicated feelings.
DEFINTELYYYY pick up this second book if you loved the first book.
I received an arc of this book from Mikayla (thank you!!!!) all opinions expressed are my own.
April 1, 2025
MIKAYLA, YOU PLAY TOO MUCH WITH THOSE CLIFFHANGERS. 😭
Now that I've gotten that out of the way, let me say that Air & Essence is yet another amazing novel by the talented, beautiful powerhouse that is Mikayla D Hornedo! I have been *beyond* fortunate to be on her ARC team for all of her releases so far and when I tell you this woman never misses!
Air & Essence picks up where Blood & Brujas left off, and then it kicks things into another gear. Rather than give a long, spoiler-filled review, though, I really want to highlight just how important and powerful Daya's fight for her liberation and to recapture her agency and power is - especially with the current state of the world. If you're looking for a why choose, dark fantasy with action, plot twists, magic, witches and vampires and wolves, lots of spice, and amazing world-building, then you'll find all of that and more.
But you'll also find a story that mirrors what so many marginalized people are facing right now: a fight for freedom and the right to simply exist in a world that would rather cage you or see you gone from it altogether. Daya, Zuri, Axel and their community of found family find strength in each other, embrace and channel their anger and rage into their fight, and remind us all that our voices -- Black, Brown, queer, trans, disabled, women -- matter and can never truly be silenced, no matter how hard they continue to try.
Like I said, Mikayla is a powerhouse.
Thank you SO MUCH, Mikayla, for gifting me with this ARC and for every one of your gorgeous stories! You're a star, bb! 🫶🏽
Now that I've gotten that out of the way, let me say that Air & Essence is yet another amazing novel by the talented, beautiful powerhouse that is Mikayla D Hornedo! I have been *beyond* fortunate to be on her ARC team for all of her releases so far and when I tell you this woman never misses!
Air & Essence picks up where Blood & Brujas left off, and then it kicks things into another gear. Rather than give a long, spoiler-filled review, though, I really want to highlight just how important and powerful Daya's fight for her liberation and to recapture her agency and power is - especially with the current state of the world. If you're looking for a why choose, dark fantasy with action, plot twists, magic, witches and vampires and wolves, lots of spice, and amazing world-building, then you'll find all of that and more.
But you'll also find a story that mirrors what so many marginalized people are facing right now: a fight for freedom and the right to simply exist in a world that would rather cage you or see you gone from it altogether. Daya, Zuri, Axel and their community of found family find strength in each other, embrace and channel their anger and rage into their fight, and remind us all that our voices -- Black, Brown, queer, trans, disabled, women -- matter and can never truly be silenced, no matter how hard they continue to try.
Like I said, Mikayla is a powerhouse.
Thank you SO MUCH, Mikayla, for gifting me with this ARC and for every one of your gorgeous stories! You're a star, bb! 🫶🏽
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