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Ocean to Ashes #2
The Quiet
Ella is a skilled soldier, rivaled only by her infamous team leader, Crow.
Years of grueling missions in the wilderness have forged her team into her family, but in a single day, a bloody betrayal shatters it all.
Picking up the pieces of her life, Ella must uncover a way to The Quiet, a sacred and enigmatic realm whose entrance is guarded fiercely by their government. She overturns every secret in her path, unknowingly freeing Jackson—a curse-bound warrior and survivor of an ancient tragedy. But his release is just the beginning, for in opening the door to The Quiet, Ella unwittingly disturbs a far more dangerous one.
Locked and bolted, the door of her past rests like a coffin in the silence of history. Despite all her efforts, she feels the hinges snapping, and learns that no buried secret can stay dead forever, especially when it has a life of its own.
Years of grueling missions in the wilderness have forged her team into her family, but in a single day, a bloody betrayal shatters it all.
Picking up the pieces of her life, Ella must uncover a way to The Quiet, a sacred and enigmatic realm whose entrance is guarded fiercely by their government. She overturns every secret in her path, unknowingly freeing Jackson—a curse-bound warrior and survivor of an ancient tragedy. But his release is just the beginning, for in opening the door to The Quiet, Ella unwittingly disturbs a far more dangerous one.
Locked and bolted, the door of her past rests like a coffin in the silence of history. Despite all her efforts, she feels the hinges snapping, and learns that no buried secret can stay dead forever, especially when it has a life of its own.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2024
2 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
About the author
A.K. Chandler
6 books45 followersA.K. Chandler is a fantasy author whose eclectic life experiences fuel her imagination and storytelling.
She is a creative soul who has dabbled in many odds and ends, from fire eating and pottery, to clowning and jujitsu, embracing the adventure in every aspect of life.
When she’s not working or writing, she enjoys adventures with loved ones, and her dog, Sage.
She is a creative soul who has dabbled in many odds and ends, from fire eating and pottery, to clowning and jujitsu, embracing the adventure in every aspect of life.
When she’s not working or writing, she enjoys adventures with loved ones, and her dog, Sage.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 2, 2025
This book completely blew me away! I finished reading and just sat to contemplate my life and the universe. The setting and story building are so descriptive and eloquently worded that I was immediately drawn to the story. It is read at duel timeline/POV and it’s honestly executed so well that it is the best I’ve ever read. I was surprised and always on the edge of my seat. I could never exactly guess what was going to happen and I’m not sure if this story was maybe a little too complex for me? I definitely cannot wait to read more because this book was just amazing. I highly recommend but be warned it’s not a quick read. There are beautiful complexities and intricate worlds to devour and enjoy! I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.
September 27, 2025
BRAVO! So beautifully written. The world building, description, and characters, were so wonderfully done. I really felt like I left myself and was immersed into this world. to feel the emotions, devastation, and the need to find out what happened.
this was so well executed. and i loved being pulled into a world that held so much.
this isn't usually something I would read. so to be so taken by it, is awesome. I can say i truly enjoyed reading this story.
thank you for the opportunity to read this as an ARC
this was so well executed. and i loved being pulled into a world that held so much.
this isn't usually something I would read. so to be so taken by it, is awesome. I can say i truly enjoyed reading this story.
thank you for the opportunity to read this as an ARC
September 2, 2025
REVIEW TO COME... Soon!😊
💫 A HAUNTING FANTASY THAT REDEFINES WHAT "QUIET" REALLY MEANS
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5 stars)
Book 1 in the Ocean to Ashes series.
Reading this felt like discovering a hidden gem.
A.K. Chandler has woven together elements that shouldn't work together but absolutely do: military betrayal, sacred realms, ancient curses, and deeply personal trauma. The result is a fantasy that feels both epic and intimate.
Ella's story hit me harder than expected. Years of grueling wilderness missions have shaped her into someone who views her team as family. When that foundation shatters through betrayal, watching her pick up the pieces becomes genuinely moving. Chandler doesn't rush this emotional journey, which makes Ella's decision to enter The Quiet feel earned rather than convenient.
The Quiet itself is masterfully crafted. Instead of dumping exposition about this mysterious realm, Chandler lets us discover it alongside Ella. The government's fierce protection of its entrance immediately tells you this place holds significance beyond what anyone initially understands. Brilliant world-building that respects reader intelligence.
Jackson's introduction changes everything. A curse-bound warrior carrying the weight of ancient tragedy? Yes, please. But Chandler avoids the trap of making him just another brooding love interest. His release connects to larger mysteries that promise to reshape everything we think we know about this world.
The metaphor of buried secrets having "a life of their own" runs deep. This isn't just about Ella's personal demons. There's something genuinely unsettling about how the past refuses to stay buried, both literally and figuratively. The imagery of doors snapping open and hinges breaking creates an authentic atmosphere.
Chandler's writing style captivated me. She balances action with introspection beautifully. The prose has weight, without being overly dense, and the dialogue feels natural even in fantastical situations.
What worked exceptionally well:
- The emotional authenticity of betrayal and its aftermath 📚
- Gradual revelation of The Quiet's mysteries 🗝️
- Strong foundation for larger story arc 🏗️
- Character motivations that feel genuine throughout ✨
Room for growth:
- Could have used slightly more detail about the mission work that forged Ella's original team
- Some readers might want faster answers about Jackson's curse
This book establishes a solid foundation for the Ocean to Ashes series, and based on this opening, I'm interested to see how "Love, Nemesis" continues the story. Even though this is book 1, it works beautifully as an introduction to Chandler's writing while setting up larger mysteries. She has created characters worth following and a world worth exploring further.
Recommend if you enjoy: Character-driven fantasy, mysterious world-building, found family themes, stories where the past refuses to stay buried, books that balance action with emotional depth.
Thank you to A.K. Chandler and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was happy to leave my honest opinion.
Woo Hoo!
💫 A HAUNTING FANTASY THAT REDEFINES WHAT "QUIET" REALLY MEANS
🌟🌟🌟🌟 (4/5 stars)
Book 1 in the Ocean to Ashes series.
Reading this felt like discovering a hidden gem.
A.K. Chandler has woven together elements that shouldn't work together but absolutely do: military betrayal, sacred realms, ancient curses, and deeply personal trauma. The result is a fantasy that feels both epic and intimate.
Ella's story hit me harder than expected. Years of grueling wilderness missions have shaped her into someone who views her team as family. When that foundation shatters through betrayal, watching her pick up the pieces becomes genuinely moving. Chandler doesn't rush this emotional journey, which makes Ella's decision to enter The Quiet feel earned rather than convenient.
The Quiet itself is masterfully crafted. Instead of dumping exposition about this mysterious realm, Chandler lets us discover it alongside Ella. The government's fierce protection of its entrance immediately tells you this place holds significance beyond what anyone initially understands. Brilliant world-building that respects reader intelligence.
Jackson's introduction changes everything. A curse-bound warrior carrying the weight of ancient tragedy? Yes, please. But Chandler avoids the trap of making him just another brooding love interest. His release connects to larger mysteries that promise to reshape everything we think we know about this world.
The metaphor of buried secrets having "a life of their own" runs deep. This isn't just about Ella's personal demons. There's something genuinely unsettling about how the past refuses to stay buried, both literally and figuratively. The imagery of doors snapping open and hinges breaking creates an authentic atmosphere.
Chandler's writing style captivated me. She balances action with introspection beautifully. The prose has weight, without being overly dense, and the dialogue feels natural even in fantastical situations.
What worked exceptionally well:
- The emotional authenticity of betrayal and its aftermath 📚
- Gradual revelation of The Quiet's mysteries 🗝️
- Strong foundation for larger story arc 🏗️
- Character motivations that feel genuine throughout ✨
Room for growth:
- Could have used slightly more detail about the mission work that forged Ella's original team
- Some readers might want faster answers about Jackson's curse
This book establishes a solid foundation for the Ocean to Ashes series, and based on this opening, I'm interested to see how "Love, Nemesis" continues the story. Even though this is book 1, it works beautifully as an introduction to Chandler's writing while setting up larger mysteries. She has created characters worth following and a world worth exploring further.
Recommend if you enjoy: Character-driven fantasy, mysterious world-building, found family themes, stories where the past refuses to stay buried, books that balance action with emotional depth.
Thank you to A.K. Chandler and VoraciousReaders for the gifted copy of this book. I was happy to leave my honest opinion.
Woo Hoo!
January 13, 2025
The Quiet by A. K. Chandler is a captivating novel that weaves together multiple storylines set in a world ravaged by a war between humans and a species called Strike.
One of the main characters is Ella, a skilled scout haunted by the mysterious death of her team. Driven by grief and a thirst for answers, she embarks on a dangerous journey into the Quiet, a mystical realm believed to hold the key to understanding the Strike and their origins. Her journey is fraught with peril as she encounters remnants of the war, including a reclusive Listener named Samual and a formidable ROSE (Riders of Saint East) warrior named Jackson.
Another storyline follows Baker, a young girl taken captive by the Strike and forced into servitude in the Bleeding Grin, the Strike's stronghold. Through Baker's eyes, readers witness the complex dynamics of the Strike society, their rituals, and their peculiar relationship with the humans they keep as slaves. Baker forms a close bond with Marnie, a fellow slave who shields her from the darker aspects of their captivity.
The novel masterfully intertwines these storylines, revealing a complex history and a web of secrets surrounding the war and the origins of the Strike. Ella's journey into the Quiet leads to startling discoveries, challenging her beliefs about the world and her place in it. Meanwhile, Baker's experiences in the Bleeding Grin offer a unique perspective on the Strike, blurring the lines between victim and oppressor.
The Quiet is a story about loss, memory, and the search for truth in a world where reality itself is in question. The novel's strength lies in its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and the exploration of complex themes surrounding power, control, and the nature of humanity. The vivid descriptions of the Quiet and the Bleeding Grin immerse readers in these contrasting worlds, while the characters' struggles with memory and trauma add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
The novel's ending is both surprising and thought-provoking, leaving readers with lingering questions about the nature of reality and the cyclical nature of conflict. The Quiet is a must-read for fans of fantasy and dystopian fiction who appreciate a story that challenges their perceptions and leaves them pondering long after they finish the last page.
ARC for unbiased review
One of the main characters is Ella, a skilled scout haunted by the mysterious death of her team. Driven by grief and a thirst for answers, she embarks on a dangerous journey into the Quiet, a mystical realm believed to hold the key to understanding the Strike and their origins. Her journey is fraught with peril as she encounters remnants of the war, including a reclusive Listener named Samual and a formidable ROSE (Riders of Saint East) warrior named Jackson.
Another storyline follows Baker, a young girl taken captive by the Strike and forced into servitude in the Bleeding Grin, the Strike's stronghold. Through Baker's eyes, readers witness the complex dynamics of the Strike society, their rituals, and their peculiar relationship with the humans they keep as slaves. Baker forms a close bond with Marnie, a fellow slave who shields her from the darker aspects of their captivity.
The novel masterfully intertwines these storylines, revealing a complex history and a web of secrets surrounding the war and the origins of the Strike. Ella's journey into the Quiet leads to startling discoveries, challenging her beliefs about the world and her place in it. Meanwhile, Baker's experiences in the Bleeding Grin offer a unique perspective on the Strike, blurring the lines between victim and oppressor.
The Quiet is a story about loss, memory, and the search for truth in a world where reality itself is in question. The novel's strength lies in its intricate world-building, compelling characters, and the exploration of complex themes surrounding power, control, and the nature of humanity. The vivid descriptions of the Quiet and the Bleeding Grin immerse readers in these contrasting worlds, while the characters' struggles with memory and trauma add depth and emotional resonance to the narrative.
The novel's ending is both surprising and thought-provoking, leaving readers with lingering questions about the nature of reality and the cyclical nature of conflict. The Quiet is a must-read for fans of fantasy and dystopian fiction who appreciate a story that challenges their perceptions and leaves them pondering long after they finish the last page.
ARC for unbiased review
August 26, 2025
💚 Blurb-
Ella is a skilled soldier, rivaled only by her infamous team leader, Crow.
Years of grueling missions in the wilderness have forged her team into her family, but in a single day, a bloody betrayal shatters it all.
Picking up the pieces of her life, Ella must uncover a way to The Quiet, a sacred and enigmatic realm whose entrance is guarded fiercely by their government. She overturns every secret in her path, unknowingly freeing Jackson—a curse-bound warrior and survivor of an ancient tragedy. But his release is just the beginning, for in opening the door to The Quiet, Ella unwittingly disturbs a far more dangerous one.
Locked and bolted, the door of her past rests like a coffin in the silence of history. Despite all her efforts, she feels the hinges snapping, and learns that no buried secret can stay dead forever, especially when it has a life of its own.
❤️ This was such a brilliantly written novel. The author's writing hooked me in from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story had enough content and adventure that it kept me reading until the end. This is the first book that I have read by the author and I will definitely be reading more by them. I highly recommend it.
💝 Thank you to Various Readers Only, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Ella is a skilled soldier, rivaled only by her infamous team leader, Crow.
Years of grueling missions in the wilderness have forged her team into her family, but in a single day, a bloody betrayal shatters it all.
Picking up the pieces of her life, Ella must uncover a way to The Quiet, a sacred and enigmatic realm whose entrance is guarded fiercely by their government. She overturns every secret in her path, unknowingly freeing Jackson—a curse-bound warrior and survivor of an ancient tragedy. But his release is just the beginning, for in opening the door to The Quiet, Ella unwittingly disturbs a far more dangerous one.
Locked and bolted, the door of her past rests like a coffin in the silence of history. Despite all her efforts, she feels the hinges snapping, and learns that no buried secret can stay dead forever, especially when it has a life of its own.
❤️ This was such a brilliantly written novel. The author's writing hooked me in from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. The story had enough content and adventure that it kept me reading until the end. This is the first book that I have read by the author and I will definitely be reading more by them. I highly recommend it.
💝 Thank you to Various Readers Only, the author and publisher for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2025
The Quiet by A.K. Chandler is a richly layered fantasy that earns its four stars through a compelling blend of emotional storytelling and immersive world-building. Set in the aftermath of a devastating war between humans and the enigmatic Strike, the novel follows two parallel narratives: Ella, a grief-stricken scout navigating the eerie, otherworldly Quiet in search of answers, and Baker, a captive girl surviving the brutal complexities of Strike society. Chandler excels at weaving these storylines together, slowly unraveling the truths behind the war and the nature of the Strike with masterful tension. The Quiet is a meditation on memory, identity, and the blurred lines between right and wrong, framed by vivid settings like the haunting Bleeding Grin and the mysterious Quiet itself. Though the pacing falters slightly at times, the emotional depth and thought-provoking finale more than make up for it. A captivating read for fans of dystopian and dark fantasy who crave stories that challenge perceptions and linger long after the final page.
March 22, 2026
An immersive, overwhelming tale that drags you deeper and deeper into a world of misery, fear and hunger. Exquisitely layered, the twists and turns distort time and reality, leaving the reader as well as the characters unsure of which way is up - or if up is an illusion after all.
With complex and strangely compelling relationships guiding the journey through fogged forgetting, you emerge - feeling like it all made sense in the end, even as it fades to a strange kind of dream.
Whilst I feel like I could spend forever unpicking it, I'm content to accept the resolution as a journey that was worth travelling. I discovered the ARC via Voracious Readers Only.
Clever and disturbing!
With complex and strangely compelling relationships guiding the journey through fogged forgetting, you emerge - feeling like it all made sense in the end, even as it fades to a strange kind of dream.
Whilst I feel like I could spend forever unpicking it, I'm content to accept the resolution as a journey that was worth travelling. I discovered the ARC via Voracious Readers Only.
Clever and disturbing!
April 22, 2025
DNF - 27%
Interesting concept. Felt too slow to explain the intricacies of the world, while also introducing new characters too quickly.
It was a bit disjointed between each scene with things happening very suddenly. The setting never really felt built into the story, it often felt like the setting would change with no explanation.
The characters themselves were well written, but the disjointed feeling made it hard to then connect with the characters.
Interesting concept. Felt too slow to explain the intricacies of the world, while also introducing new characters too quickly.
It was a bit disjointed between each scene with things happening very suddenly. The setting never really felt built into the story, it often felt like the setting would change with no explanation.
The characters themselves were well written, but the disjointed feeling made it hard to then connect with the characters.
August 19, 2025
It can be complicated at times, but with the way the story telling is done, it doesn't seem like the goal is really to understand everything. Depends on if you like this style of writing / story telling. I found it to be really unique and thought provoking. I don't want to leave any spoilers, but I was surprised by what characters I fell in love with and got attached to. The relationships in a lot of ways felt symbolic. I'm still thinking about what they all meant at the end.
December 28, 2024
Awesome descriptions, interesting concepts and great comparisons. Very strong descriptive writing and ability to accurately express and describe the interactions between characters as if they are real life people
December 28, 2024
Striking use of language, fast-paced story telling and thoughtful themes and concepts. Complex character development - sometimes had to re-read a paragraph since some of the concepts deal with time, emotion etc. Loved it
December 28, 2024
The Quiet is now available on Amazon! I had to do a refresh and republish so my previous post vanished. Hoping it comes back before I re-write the background for this book. ;)
December 28, 2024
Fast paced and leaves room for the imagination. Loved Ella and Jackson
February 3, 2025
Good pacing - lots of action. had to re-read about some concepts since time stuff is tricky, but loved the characters
February 12, 2025
Complex but I liked it - I like more open ended plots so this really worked for me. Same with Love, Nemesis.
July 26, 2025
I thought the book was ok. Read from 2 perspectives. I thought the book was hard to follow, there wasn't enough explanation on this fantasy world for me. 3.5 stars
August 16, 2025
Abstract and poetic - interesting characters
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews