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Ashes & Rubble
Prince Aeveus Fehlik, heir to the throne, is a wanted man.
No one knows why the second most powerful man in the kingdom murdered his own father, but the reward for his capture is enough for Karessa Auruchie to move out of the slums. Determined to change her fortune, she teams up with a tracker named Clyde—a handsome, charismatic elf with a disarming smile—and together, they venture across monster-ridden forests in search of their quarry.
Aeveus is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. The only problem: everyone saw him do it. Now he’s a man on the run, hoping that his one clue—the sigil of a long-forgotten territory—leads him to the true culprit. With the royal guards hot on his trail, and a sizeable bounty looming over him, time is not on his side. If he’s apprehended before he can clear his name, he’ll face trial and be swiftly executed.
No one knows why the second most powerful man in the kingdom murdered his own father, but the reward for his capture is enough for Karessa Auruchie to move out of the slums. Determined to change her fortune, she teams up with a tracker named Clyde—a handsome, charismatic elf with a disarming smile—and together, they venture across monster-ridden forests in search of their quarry.
Aeveus is accused of a crime he didn’t commit. The only problem: everyone saw him do it. Now he’s a man on the run, hoping that his one clue—the sigil of a long-forgotten territory—leads him to the true culprit. With the royal guards hot on his trail, and a sizeable bounty looming over him, time is not on his side. If he’s apprehended before he can clear his name, he’ll face trial and be swiftly executed.
380 pages, Paperback
First published May 16, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
July 21, 2025
4.75 ⭐️ Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for letting me get the e-copy of this book
This was a spontaneous read after I saw it offered in NetGalley. I took a look at the blurb, and decided almost immediatly that I wanted to read it, and it did not disappoint. The book was very entertaining, and it kept me hooked every single chapter. The dynamic between Aeveus and Karessa was soooo fun to read about. Even though this book contained the trope ”secret identity” which can often be over-used in fantasy books, it was executed really well, and I just love these characters sooo sooo sooo much 🫶🏻♥️ Really, everything about this book was great, highly recommend
This was a spontaneous read after I saw it offered in NetGalley. I took a look at the blurb, and decided almost immediatly that I wanted to read it, and it did not disappoint. The book was very entertaining, and it kept me hooked every single chapter. The dynamic between Aeveus and Karessa was soooo fun to read about. Even though this book contained the trope ”secret identity” which can often be over-used in fantasy books, it was executed really well, and I just love these characters sooo sooo sooo much 🫶🏻♥️ Really, everything about this book was great, highly recommend
April 17, 2025
✧₊‧˚⁀➷ 1.2/5 .ᐟ
ʚɞ ⁺˖ pros. i had high hopes for this, but it was just. forgettable? but a very quick read—i completed it in two hours—so at least it doesn't drag. matthias and ester were cute, somewhat. the "he'd wait for her for 100 years" bit is just adorable.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ cons. i didn't connect to anything, any characters, any storylines, or any of the romance. the writing, directly from wattpad. dr. seuss-y alliterations right from the prologue, descriptions that are written as asides instead of being integrated with the actual story. the plot was a sequence of very generic stock events in fantasy with no unique personality to any of them. karessaevius would have been normal romantasy slop either way, but whore male lead who "has never thought of women as people" until the female lead showed up is just icky when written by a male author. in general, the characters are immensely shallow, romantasy leads #5689 and #6723. they're stock people in a stock universe doing stock things. just extremely uninspired.
i received an advanced copy from netgalley in exchange for a review.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ pros. i had high hopes for this, but it was just. forgettable? but a very quick read—i completed it in two hours—so at least it doesn't drag. matthias and ester were cute, somewhat. the "he'd wait for her for 100 years" bit is just adorable.
ʚɞ ⁺˖ cons. i didn't connect to anything, any characters, any storylines, or any of the romance. the writing, directly from wattpad. dr. seuss-y alliterations right from the prologue, descriptions that are written as asides instead of being integrated with the actual story. the plot was a sequence of very generic stock events in fantasy with no unique personality to any of them. karessaevius would have been normal romantasy slop either way, but whore male lead who "has never thought of women as people" until the female lead showed up is just icky when written by a male author. in general, the characters are immensely shallow, romantasy leads #5689 and #6723. they're stock people in a stock universe doing stock things. just extremely uninspired.
i received an advanced copy from netgalley in exchange for a review.
April 12, 2025
When I started writing this story in December of 2023, I knew I was entering a subgenre dominated by women (Romantic Fantasy), aware of my limitations in fully understanding women’s perspectives. My goal was to create an awesome world in which my characters could fall in love and one day have a family. The world was easy to make, the falling in love part, not so much. I wanted action and spice! But I also wanted a quick story that was easy to digest. That meant (as a slow-burn author) I didn’t have much room to let their attraction morph into a budding relationship. I did my best. Honestly, I thought I did a decent job, even my editors seemed to enjoy it, but the NetGalley ARC readers (overwhelmingly women) let me know the relationship happened too fast for their liking and that the female MC wasn’t quite right. So…I decided to scrap the spicy scene and the dialogue/actions surrounding it. In book 2, I’ll be focusing on their relationship. Hopefully, I made the right decision.
All in all, my ARC readers have been great, and every criticism helped mold this story into something special.
All in all, my ARC readers have been great, and every criticism helped mold this story into something special.
March 19, 2025
Thank you Net Galley and Dartanyan Johnson for the early copy.
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. There is deceit, adventure, and excellent world building. My only critique is I think the romance could have been better crafted. All of a sudden love was being thrown around and it was weird.
4.5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. There is deceit, adventure, and excellent world building. My only critique is I think the romance could have been better crafted. All of a sudden love was being thrown around and it was weird.
February 21, 2025
Ashes & Rubble is book 1 in A Kingdom Cast in Shadows Duology, but the story is part of a much bigger plot. A war is brewing, and it will take the three elven kingdoms’ collective might to prevail.
Ashes & Rubble is currently on NetGalley!
Ashes & Rubble is currently on NetGalley!
May 4, 2025
3.75⭐️ rounded up
Thank you NetGalley and Dartanyan Johnson for this advanced reader copy.
Reading the description of this book I knew it would be right up my alley. I love magic kingdoms, mythical creatures, and adventure!
I do wish there had been more of a back story for the main characters. While I liked them, I felt a bit disconnected to them for the bulk of the story. It was mostly fast paced with problems arriving or action happening quite frequently, which kept it interesting.
In the last 20% I REALLY wanted to unravel the mystery and see what would happen to our beloved MMC Prince Aeveus, and I have to say I didn’t expect the twist in the story at all.
This was also a sort of “enemies to lovers” story and the attraction build up flowed well. I would have enjoyed more world building, but overall an interesting magical adventure.
Thank you NetGalley and Dartanyan Johnson for this advanced reader copy.
Reading the description of this book I knew it would be right up my alley. I love magic kingdoms, mythical creatures, and adventure!
I do wish there had been more of a back story for the main characters. While I liked them, I felt a bit disconnected to them for the bulk of the story. It was mostly fast paced with problems arriving or action happening quite frequently, which kept it interesting.
In the last 20% I REALLY wanted to unravel the mystery and see what would happen to our beloved MMC Prince Aeveus, and I have to say I didn’t expect the twist in the story at all.
This was also a sort of “enemies to lovers” story and the attraction build up flowed well. I would have enjoyed more world building, but overall an interesting magical adventure.
April 6, 2025
I was lucky to get an ARC for Ashes & Rubble through Netgalley!
I really enjoyed this book! Had all of my favourite things in it, Magical creatures, funny MC, banter, adventure and a great story!
The prologue had me hooked immediately and I just had to keep reading to find out what had happened. The twists were great too and unexpected which made for a good read.
I enjoyed the MC relationship with each-other and with their fellows. They developed well. The pacing of the story was great too and the action was well written and not rushed at all.
Looking forward to the next one coming out!
I really enjoyed this book! Had all of my favourite things in it, Magical creatures, funny MC, banter, adventure and a great story!
The prologue had me hooked immediately and I just had to keep reading to find out what had happened. The twists were great too and unexpected which made for a good read.
I enjoyed the MC relationship with each-other and with their fellows. They developed well. The pacing of the story was great too and the action was well written and not rushed at all.
Looking forward to the next one coming out!
May 15, 2025
This fantasy adventure story was a refreshing palate cleanser to my usual dark romantasy vibes.
I found the dual perspectives refreshing considering so many authors opt for the usual "we all know a secret reveal/betrayal is coming but are left in the dark from the solo perspective of the FMC" trope that's become rather stale for me.
The author's choice to show Aeveus' (MMC) thought process and perspective from the very beginning was a nice twist on the routine.
You might enjoy this story if you appreciate:
❤️ Innocent FMC/protective MMC
🪄 More traditional fantasy/adventure type story
❤️ Slow relationship build up
🥷 Hidden identity
❤️ NO smut
Karessa (FMC) is not your super strong/skilled headstrong trope type and is quite naive to the ways of the world outside the slums of the city she lives in. But it makes sense, because she's just a poor potato picker who loves her family, doing her best to bring them back from the brink of starvation and you know what? That's it's own kind of strength.
Looking forward to the next book to see how the shift in their relationship dynamic impacts the story as well as where the final, unexpected reveal in the epilogue leads!
Thank you Net Galley and Dartanyan Johnson for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
I found the dual perspectives refreshing considering so many authors opt for the usual "we all know a secret reveal/betrayal is coming but are left in the dark from the solo perspective of the FMC" trope that's become rather stale for me.
The author's choice to show Aeveus' (MMC) thought process and perspective from the very beginning was a nice twist on the routine.
You might enjoy this story if you appreciate:
❤️ Innocent FMC/protective MMC
🪄 More traditional fantasy/adventure type story
❤️ Slow relationship build up
🥷 Hidden identity
❤️ NO smut
Karessa (FMC) is not your super strong/skilled headstrong trope type and is quite naive to the ways of the world outside the slums of the city she lives in. But it makes sense, because she's just a poor potato picker who loves her family, doing her best to bring them back from the brink of starvation and you know what? That's it's own kind of strength.
Looking forward to the next book to see how the shift in their relationship dynamic impacts the story as well as where the final, unexpected reveal in the epilogue leads!
Thank you Net Galley and Dartanyan Johnson for the eARC, all opinions are my own.
May 15, 2025
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC.
Where to begin?
To be honest, I had high hopes for this book. It sounded very promising but oh boy, what a disappointment.
I just did not feel connected to any characters. The story was not what I was expecting. The writing is not great. And the romance could be better.
Unfortunately, this book was not my cup of tea.
Where to begin?
To be honest, I had high hopes for this book. It sounded very promising but oh boy, what a disappointment.
I just did not feel connected to any characters. The story was not what I was expecting. The writing is not great. And the romance could be better.
Unfortunately, this book was not my cup of tea.
March 4, 2025
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)
Actual review closer to 3.75 stars. The story itself moved right along for me. I liked the group and their dynamic as they made their journey together. I would have liked to have gone a smidge deeper into the characters and the romance angle been a little more fleshed out.
Actual review closer to 3.75 stars. The story itself moved right along for me. I liked the group and their dynamic as they made their journey together. I would have liked to have gone a smidge deeper into the characters and the romance angle been a little more fleshed out.
February 13, 2025
This was a pretty dang decent fantasy novel.
I really liked the pacing of the world-building, it never felt info-dumpy to me and it never made me sit there wondering "what on earth are they talking about? I don't know anything about that yet." And I think that says a lot about a fantasy novel and the author. Usually world-building always leaves something to be desired.
This world was cool and had cool creatures (which is always a major selling point for me).
I did wish for a bit more characterization though. I really am such a character-driven reader. You gotta make me fall totally in love with them. Don't get me wrong, these were not flat or boring characters, I just wanted a bit more. Especially when it came to the romantic development. I just wished for a teeny scooch more.
There were times when I could tell it was written by a man (I usually try to stay away from books written by men because they tend to be offensive and infuriating, the girlies know what I'm talking about and the exact kinds of scenes I am referring to - there are entire reddit threads dedicated to it), but this wasn't offensive, just weird at times (that could just be a personal thing).
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
I really liked the pacing of the world-building, it never felt info-dumpy to me and it never made me sit there wondering "what on earth are they talking about? I don't know anything about that yet." And I think that says a lot about a fantasy novel and the author. Usually world-building always leaves something to be desired.
This world was cool and had cool creatures (which is always a major selling point for me).
I did wish for a bit more characterization though. I really am such a character-driven reader. You gotta make me fall totally in love with them. Don't get me wrong, these were not flat or boring characters, I just wanted a bit more. Especially when it came to the romantic development. I just wished for a teeny scooch more.
There were times when I could tell it was written by a man (I usually try to stay away from books written by men because they tend to be offensive and infuriating, the girlies know what I'm talking about and the exact kinds of scenes I am referring to - there are entire reddit threads dedicated to it), but this wasn't offensive, just weird at times (that could just be a personal thing).
Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
March 9, 2025
Ashes & Rubble exceeded my expectations in the best of ways! When I began reading the prologue and found (who I incorrectly assumed to be the main character) Ingrid Wingelbomb, I was hesitant on the direction of the story. I was quickly reminded that in fantasy, there's more than meets the eye.
The story follows a young human woman named Karessa and an elven prince, Aeveus. Karessa, having grown up poor, and having recently lost a family member to an attack she believes was perpetrated by the elven prince, takes the opportunity to hunt for the escaped prince to earn a large bounty. Large enough to get her family out of poverty and afford a decent life, she lunges at the chance, though she knows the prince has strong magic and she (as a lowly human) has none.
Aeveus, finding himself in an impossible situation that will determine not only his kingdom's future but also his life, is on the run. Running from the kingdom's military, and from a relentless bounty hunter (Karessa), his antics are endearing and bring the story to life.
Author Dartanyan Johnson put a lot of effort into the worldbuilding and character development, which is evidenced repeatedly throughout the book. The cities and communities have their own personalities, and the main (and side) characters are engaging and full of life. And the last chapter (and epilogue) will have you begging for the next book in the series.
The first in the 'A Kingdom Cast in Shadows' duology includes magical creatures, slow burn romance, low spice, high fantasy, intrigue, training sequences, touch-her-and-die, death, relatively low profanity, sex, violence, and mystery throughout.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a side note, the author included a playlist for enjoyment while reading. I am in awe of the effort put into this story and definitely recommend it to fans of high fantasy.
The story follows a young human woman named Karessa and an elven prince, Aeveus. Karessa, having grown up poor, and having recently lost a family member to an attack she believes was perpetrated by the elven prince, takes the opportunity to hunt for the escaped prince to earn a large bounty. Large enough to get her family out of poverty and afford a decent life, she lunges at the chance, though she knows the prince has strong magic and she (as a lowly human) has none.
Aeveus, finding himself in an impossible situation that will determine not only his kingdom's future but also his life, is on the run. Running from the kingdom's military, and from a relentless bounty hunter (Karessa), his antics are endearing and bring the story to life.
Author Dartanyan Johnson put a lot of effort into the worldbuilding and character development, which is evidenced repeatedly throughout the book. The cities and communities have their own personalities, and the main (and side) characters are engaging and full of life. And the last chapter (and epilogue) will have you begging for the next book in the series.
The first in the 'A Kingdom Cast in Shadows' duology includes magical creatures, slow burn romance, low spice, high fantasy, intrigue, training sequences, touch-her-and-die, death, relatively low profanity, sex, violence, and mystery throughout.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As a side note, the author included a playlist for enjoyment while reading. I am in awe of the effort put into this story and definitely recommend it to fans of high fantasy.
June 6, 2025
ೃ⁀➷ 4/5 - 𝙄'𝙢 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨, 𝘾𝙡𝙮𝙙𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙣'���� 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙔𝙤𝙪'𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄'𝙙 𝙤𝙣𝙡𝙮 𝙗𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩. 𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧? 𝙄'𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙮. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙄'𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚.
Was quite a nice quick read, full of adventure, action and a touch of romance. The plot was good and the twist closer to the end was very interesting, made me feel for the villain cause poor guy.
"𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐝," 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧, "𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐲. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞."
It was a hard debate on what to rate this but considering that I liked the story I decided to give this novel 4/5 stars. Originally, I was going to go 3 or 3.5 due to some things in the story didn’t feel perfectly executed and that it kinda felt like it waffled. If the story was extended a touch more then perhaps it could’ve been great for the parts where it felt long, but after reading the authors notes then it made sense for certain scenes, especially surrounding the romance. On the romance side, it was low spice but it felt rushed for the two main characters. It would’ve been a bit better if there was more tension between them to build up that romance a bit more but the prince was a very golden retriever personality throughout, a good contrast to the FL’s personality. They both grew as characters too.
What I really enjoyed was that twist closer to the end of the book as well as the epilogue! I need the next book and I can’t wait to read it!
Thank you NetGalley and author for providing the book!
𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚. 𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙢𝙮 𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙮. 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮, 𝙄'𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙗𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙚.
Was quite a nice quick read, full of adventure, action and a touch of romance. The plot was good and the twist closer to the end was very interesting, made me feel for the villain cause poor guy.
"𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐥𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧 𝐛𝐞𝐝," 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧, "𝐚 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐮𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐛𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐰𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐩𝐞𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐥𝐲. 𝐘𝐨𝐮'𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐧𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐲 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐦 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐞."
It was a hard debate on what to rate this but considering that I liked the story I decided to give this novel 4/5 stars. Originally, I was going to go 3 or 3.5 due to some things in the story didn’t feel perfectly executed and that it kinda felt like it waffled. If the story was extended a touch more then perhaps it could’ve been great for the parts where it felt long, but after reading the authors notes then it made sense for certain scenes, especially surrounding the romance. On the romance side, it was low spice but it felt rushed for the two main characters. It would’ve been a bit better if there was more tension between them to build up that romance a bit more but the prince was a very golden retriever personality throughout, a good contrast to the FL’s personality. They both grew as characters too.
What I really enjoyed was that twist closer to the end of the book as well as the epilogue! I need the next book and I can’t wait to read it!
Thank you NetGalley and author for providing the book!
August 30, 2025
I have to say I loved this fun, almost quirky fantasy.
Karessa, a poor woman from the human lands, lives with her sister-in-law. Dayla, her daughter, and Brother-in-law, struggling to make ends meet, especially when Prince Aeveus goes on a rampage, killing his father and several guards, including Karessa's brother, who left behind his wife and daughter.
With hate fueling her, she decides she wants to take on the challenge of bringing back the Prince to collect the 10,000 gold bounty on his head, but first, she has to find something that will help curb his fire magic, or there will be no catching him; she would be dead on arrival.
In the market, Karessa finds a woman who has a stone, something that siphons the magic from beings, leaving them vulnerable. Just what she needs.
Prince Aeveus is stunned to find himself in a dank jail cell, locked behind power-siphoning bars and a sigil imprinted on his chest, leaving him powerless. When his uncle comes down to visit him, he's left reeling from the words that spill from his uncle's mouth, for he isn't the one who killed his uncle; he was too busy wanting to seduce a woman before he saw the man with his face kill a woman and knock him out. His pleas go unanswered, his uncle unable to bend the laws of the fae, leaving him bereft until his friends come to visit and break him out.
They set on a journey to find the man who has his face, and since he is the most wanted man, he has to change his.
I found this book very enjoyable, funny, witty, and cute, and the battle scenes were immersive. There was a well-rounded arc of emotions, and I find Karessa had the biggest arc in her development, as did Aeveus, but I resonated more with the FMC.
Also, that epilogue? What a cliff hanger--I must know!
Will be looking forward to book 2!
Karessa, a poor woman from the human lands, lives with her sister-in-law. Dayla, her daughter, and Brother-in-law, struggling to make ends meet, especially when Prince Aeveus goes on a rampage, killing his father and several guards, including Karessa's brother, who left behind his wife and daughter.
With hate fueling her, she decides she wants to take on the challenge of bringing back the Prince to collect the 10,000 gold bounty on his head, but first, she has to find something that will help curb his fire magic, or there will be no catching him; she would be dead on arrival.
In the market, Karessa finds a woman who has a stone, something that siphons the magic from beings, leaving them vulnerable. Just what she needs.
Prince Aeveus is stunned to find himself in a dank jail cell, locked behind power-siphoning bars and a sigil imprinted on his chest, leaving him powerless. When his uncle comes down to visit him, he's left reeling from the words that spill from his uncle's mouth, for he isn't the one who killed his uncle; he was too busy wanting to seduce a woman before he saw the man with his face kill a woman and knock him out. His pleas go unanswered, his uncle unable to bend the laws of the fae, leaving him bereft until his friends come to visit and break him out.
They set on a journey to find the man who has his face, and since he is the most wanted man, he has to change his.
I found this book very enjoyable, funny, witty, and cute, and the battle scenes were immersive. There was a well-rounded arc of emotions, and I find Karessa had the biggest arc in her development, as did Aeveus, but I resonated more with the FMC.
Also, that epilogue? What a cliff hanger--I must know!
Will be looking forward to book 2!
Read
May 15, 2025ARC Review-
“Ashes & Rubble”, is a uniquely fresh mash-up of action-adventure and romantic fantasy. The story is set within the Fehlik Kingdom and follows two main characters, one being poverty-stricken Karessa, who sets out seeking justice and to cash in on a bounty that would improve her small family’s financial situation. The second main character is elven Prince Aeveus, who is wanted for the suspected murder of his father the King, and is currently on the run with his two best friends Matthias and Esteriella. In my opinion, author Dartanyan Johnson, really crafted a special narrative within this book. He weaved together components of multiple genres and the product was a story that I absolutely didn’t want to put down. The characters were likable and had an interesting rapport filled with witty banter, sarcasm, and playful razzing which showcased the fullness of their friendships. Along with the fun characters, there are a slew of fantasy creatures that add a stimulating element to the story. The addition of elemental magic is also another enjoyable fantasy nod, and when combined with the action-adventure that is steadily happening throughout the tale, you can’t help but be 100% engaged. I will definitely be sticking around to see where this story goes. Would recommend to any action, adventure, and fantasy readers.
Thank you to NetGalley & D.Catz Publishing for allowing me to read this book pre-publication. This book was received for free as an ARC, all opinions expressed are solely my own.
“Ashes & Rubble”, is a uniquely fresh mash-up of action-adventure and romantic fantasy. The story is set within the Fehlik Kingdom and follows two main characters, one being poverty-stricken Karessa, who sets out seeking justice and to cash in on a bounty that would improve her small family’s financial situation. The second main character is elven Prince Aeveus, who is wanted for the suspected murder of his father the King, and is currently on the run with his two best friends Matthias and Esteriella. In my opinion, author Dartanyan Johnson, really crafted a special narrative within this book. He weaved together components of multiple genres and the product was a story that I absolutely didn’t want to put down. The characters were likable and had an interesting rapport filled with witty banter, sarcasm, and playful razzing which showcased the fullness of their friendships. Along with the fun characters, there are a slew of fantasy creatures that add a stimulating element to the story. The addition of elemental magic is also another enjoyable fantasy nod, and when combined with the action-adventure that is steadily happening throughout the tale, you can’t help but be 100% engaged. I will definitely be sticking around to see where this story goes. Would recommend to any action, adventure, and fantasy readers.
Thank you to NetGalley & D.Catz Publishing for allowing me to read this book pre-publication. This book was received for free as an ARC, all opinions expressed are solely my own.
April 26, 2025
🪨Ashes & Rubble💎
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️3.5
When I read the summary for this novel, I was excited to read it. I think the plot is fun and reminds me of quest-oriented epic fantasies. The camaraderie between the unlikely squad was warm and the banter funny at times.
Sometimes, though, the dialogue felt forced and cliché. I don't think the main characters were ever fully described. I know I'm the kind of reader who enjoys a clear image of what the characters look like. Because of that, I wanted more depth from the characters and felt that by the end, I still didn't really know them.
I would have liked more memories of Karessa and her brother to solidify her motivation for hunting down Prince Aeveus. By the end of the story, I wanted to know they would make it out on top, so even with me wanting more from the characters, I still cheered for them and liked them.
The romance felt very sweet and demure, which is surprising when Prince Aevrus is supposed to be morally gray. I didn't get morally gray from him, I got misunderstood, and that while he was deadly with his combat skills, he's a big softy. Lol.
Overall, I feel like there needs to be more world-building and character development. Even with that in mind, I liked the pacing of the plot and the adventurous feel of Karessa and her comrades' quest. If you're not a character-driven reader like I am, you'll enjoy this book!
Thank you, Dartanyan Johnson and NetGalley, for my ebook ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️3.5
When I read the summary for this novel, I was excited to read it. I think the plot is fun and reminds me of quest-oriented epic fantasies. The camaraderie between the unlikely squad was warm and the banter funny at times.
Sometimes, though, the dialogue felt forced and cliché. I don't think the main characters were ever fully described. I know I'm the kind of reader who enjoys a clear image of what the characters look like. Because of that, I wanted more depth from the characters and felt that by the end, I still didn't really know them.
I would have liked more memories of Karessa and her brother to solidify her motivation for hunting down Prince Aeveus. By the end of the story, I wanted to know they would make it out on top, so even with me wanting more from the characters, I still cheered for them and liked them.
The romance felt very sweet and demure, which is surprising when Prince Aevrus is supposed to be morally gray. I didn't get morally gray from him, I got misunderstood, and that while he was deadly with his combat skills, he's a big softy. Lol.
Overall, I feel like there needs to be more world-building and character development. Even with that in mind, I liked the pacing of the plot and the adventurous feel of Karessa and her comrades' quest. If you're not a character-driven reader like I am, you'll enjoy this book!
Thank you, Dartanyan Johnson and NetGalley, for my ebook ARC!
May 7, 2025
Ashes & Rubble is a fun, fast-paced fantasy adventure that gave me serious quest vibes—think bounty hunters, elves, magic, and a ragtag crew with great banter. The story follows Karessa, a tough human girl chasing down Prince Aeveus for a bounty that could change her life, and Aeveus, a runaway elven prince caught up in some major kingdom-level drama.
The plot moves quickly and has a good balance of action and quieter moments. The team dynamic is a highlight—there’s some funny back-and-forth and a nice sense of camaraderie. The romance between Karessa and Aeveus is sweet and subtle, though I was expecting a bit more edge from him. He’s supposed to be morally gray, but honestly, he felt more like a misunderstood softie (not that I minded too much).
That said, I did wish for a bit more depth. The world has potential, but it could’ve used more detail, and I never felt like I got a super clear picture of what the main characters looked like. As someone who loves strong character development, I found myself wanting to know Karessa and Aeveus better. A few more memories or emotional moments—especially around Karessa’s motivation—would have helped.
Still, I had a good time reading it. If you’re more into plot and adventure than deep character dives, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. It’s a solid start to the series, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
A big thank you to NetGalley and D.CATZ Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The plot moves quickly and has a good balance of action and quieter moments. The team dynamic is a highlight—there’s some funny back-and-forth and a nice sense of camaraderie. The romance between Karessa and Aeveus is sweet and subtle, though I was expecting a bit more edge from him. He’s supposed to be morally gray, but honestly, he felt more like a misunderstood softie (not that I minded too much).
That said, I did wish for a bit more depth. The world has potential, but it could’ve used more detail, and I never felt like I got a super clear picture of what the main characters looked like. As someone who loves strong character development, I found myself wanting to know Karessa and Aeveus better. A few more memories or emotional moments—especially around Karessa’s motivation—would have helped.
Still, I had a good time reading it. If you’re more into plot and adventure than deep character dives, I think you’ll really enjoy this one. It’s a solid start to the series, and I’m curious to see where it goes next.
A big thank you to NetGalley and D.CATZ Publishing for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I read it late as I am really behind on arcs.
This felt more YA to me as there was no spice and very little cursing. It was also written in the 3rd person POV. I prefer 1st person POV but that's just my opinion.
This follows the aftermath of someone killing the high killing and prince Avenus, suspected of the crime, on the run. Karessa fueled by the death of her brother goes after the price, with a magic stone, for the bounty on his head. She finds Clyde and his two friends who says they are trackers and they proceed to try and find the prince. There is action, adventure, humor, and you begin to see the attraction forming. By the end you think everything is wrapped up nicely but then there is more uncovered.
I finished the book and was left with some questions that I hope get answered in Book 2 or 3. Which are Does Karessa have magic? How as Human will she be with him, if he is an elf and they live long lives? Will there be more spice? Literally anything? More on the council and how to rid them.
I appreciated the author's note of what he changed from original draft as I think he made the right call. It's always interesting to hear why an author chose a particular road in the story and this I appreciated and really felt the right choices were made.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I appreciate Netgalley for the earc. I look forward to book 2!
This felt more YA to me as there was no spice and very little cursing. It was also written in the 3rd person POV. I prefer 1st person POV but that's just my opinion.
This follows the aftermath of someone killing the high killing and prince Avenus, suspected of the crime, on the run. Karessa fueled by the death of her brother goes after the price, with a magic stone, for the bounty on his head. She finds Clyde and his two friends who says they are trackers and they proceed to try and find the prince. There is action, adventure, humor, and you begin to see the attraction forming. By the end you think everything is wrapped up nicely but then there is more uncovered.
I finished the book and was left with some questions that I hope get answered in Book 2 or 3. Which are Does Karessa have magic? How as Human will she be with him, if he is an elf and they live long lives? Will there be more spice? Literally anything? More on the council and how to rid them.
I appreciated the author's note of what he changed from original draft as I think he made the right call. It's always interesting to hear why an author chose a particular road in the story and this I appreciated and really felt the right choices were made.
Overall I enjoyed the book. I appreciate Netgalley for the earc. I look forward to book 2!
June 29, 2025
From the Prince became a wanted man. Prince Aeveus Fehlik is accused of murdering the King, his own father. The Prince with his trusted Knights now undercover to find the truth.
The problem is, many people saw he killed his father. Then he met Karessa, the one who wanted to find him so she could give him to the authorities to get the reward for escaping poverty. Together, they’re on a mission; one of them finding the truth and the other finding the gold. Now, how do their fates interwind?
A pretty classic romantasy. This story is fun to read and has a map, so it is easier to navigate what is going on in the story and where the event is happening. The story is okay, but it is presented with a super-speed story pace and I feel that I don’t have time to breathe and devour the story process.
Some events and the character's true identity are better as a plot twist in the end. This story really needs an element of surprise. As for character, I think Karissa the FMC need more spotlight when in action, especially in combat fighting.
The magic system in this story has such a big potential to be developed more, maybe also adding some of cultural environment so that there is an iconic magic system that can make people instantly remember because of its uniqueness.
The problem is, many people saw he killed his father. Then he met Karessa, the one who wanted to find him so she could give him to the authorities to get the reward for escaping poverty. Together, they’re on a mission; one of them finding the truth and the other finding the gold. Now, how do their fates interwind?
A pretty classic romantasy. This story is fun to read and has a map, so it is easier to navigate what is going on in the story and where the event is happening. The story is okay, but it is presented with a super-speed story pace and I feel that I don’t have time to breathe and devour the story process.
Some events and the character's true identity are better as a plot twist in the end. This story really needs an element of surprise. As for character, I think Karissa the FMC need more spotlight when in action, especially in combat fighting.
The magic system in this story has such a big potential to be developed more, maybe also adding some of cultural environment so that there is an iconic magic system that can make people instantly remember because of its uniqueness.
October 26, 2025
Ashes & Rubble is the first in a new duology by Johnson, according to the author note at the end of the book he is going to write three more books in this world then come back to give us the second in this series. Not sure I want to wait that long to get the second book as I enjoyed this story but I will trust the process. There were a few holes but a good twist in the end so I can overlook the plot holes. We have a Elvin prince who is accused of murdering his father the king, his guards and best friends break him out of prison to find who the real killer is. Our FMC is a human who's brother was a guard that was killed the night the king died and is after the bounty put on the prince's head to help save her sister-in-law, niece, and brother-in-law from poverty. The prince is undercover and acts as a bounty hunter to help our FMC find the prince. There is adventure and a strange love connection with our FMC getting feelings for an old elf (weird, yes) but it kept me intrigued the whole time.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an eARC of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an eARC of this story in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
Prince Aevenue is a wanted man. The kingdom has put a bounty on his head for killing his father. Everyone saw him kill the King but he didn't do it and needs to find the person who did. Karessa is determined to win the reward for the capture of the prince. She wants to help her family have a better life. She decided she will need some help on her quest and teams up with Clyde who is a tracker and his companions Matthias and Esteriella. They go on a wild adventure full of magical creatures, battles, and surprising twists!
I really enjoyed the plot. The fighting scenes were so good. I was never bored or wishing more would happen. It was very fast paced and I could not get enough of it. I do kind of wish the romance had a bit more build up to the relationship. But I still enjoyed it and loved their story. I absolutely loved that you explained a lot in the Authors note. It was like all of the questions I had were answered and that was so awesome!
Can't wait for the next book! Thank you Dartanyan Johnson and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of the ARC Team!
I really enjoyed the plot. The fighting scenes were so good. I was never bored or wishing more would happen. It was very fast paced and I could not get enough of it. I do kind of wish the romance had a bit more build up to the relationship. But I still enjoyed it and loved their story. I absolutely loved that you explained a lot in the Authors note. It was like all of the questions I had were answered and that was so awesome!
Can't wait for the next book! Thank you Dartanyan Johnson and NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of the ARC Team!
March 27, 2025
In an unexpected attack on the king, Prince Aeveus is suddenly found wanted for the murder of his father. While on the run in a quite convincing disguise, he encounters Karessa, who is searching for him with the hopes of earning the bounty on his head. Throughout the book, they encounter numerous dilemmas as they search for the true murdered of the king.
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like it had just the right amount of romance and action, and a fitting pace was kept throughout the book. The battle scenes were also very well- written, leaving me eager to know how their outcomes.
The only thing i feel put my rating down slightly was the fact that i feel the characters didn't have enough depth to them. I think if they had more of a background to them, one they shared between themselves throughout the book, it would make them feel more alive.
Overall, however, I really enjoyed Ashes and Rubble, and i can't wait for book 2 .
I really enjoyed this book. I feel like it had just the right amount of romance and action, and a fitting pace was kept throughout the book. The battle scenes were also very well- written, leaving me eager to know how their outcomes.
The only thing i feel put my rating down slightly was the fact that i feel the characters didn't have enough depth to them. I think if they had more of a background to them, one they shared between themselves throughout the book, it would make them feel more alive.
Overall, however, I really enjoyed Ashes and Rubble, and i can't wait for book 2 .
March 29, 2025
“Maybe love is too strong a word, but saying I like her feels unjust […] whatever I’m experiencing is maddening.”
I loved everything about this book! For a long time now I’ve been over the Fae hype and this was such a refreshing twist on romantasy. Elves, goblins, Minotaurs, chimeras- seriously you name it, it was in here.
I loved the interactions between the characters and the growth they all faced. And their banter was so funny! You get a bada$$ fmc who owns that she has zero skills but doesn’t let that stop her from trying. And their banter was mmc is so amazing in the fact that he is vulnerable (physically and emotionally) and he openly acknowledges his weaknesses.
Also the brief bit of spice in this was what I crave in more books! Short, sweet, and to the point giving just the right amount of detail without going on for pages or going over the top.
All in all I really enjoyed this book. It gave echoes of being a romantasy while also providing something totally different!
I loved everything about this book! For a long time now I’ve been over the Fae hype and this was such a refreshing twist on romantasy. Elves, goblins, Minotaurs, chimeras- seriously you name it, it was in here.
I loved the interactions between the characters and the growth they all faced. And their banter was so funny! You get a bada$$ fmc who owns that she has zero skills but doesn’t let that stop her from trying. And their banter was mmc is so amazing in the fact that he is vulnerable (physically and emotionally) and he openly acknowledges his weaknesses.
Also the brief bit of spice in this was what I crave in more books! Short, sweet, and to the point giving just the right amount of detail without going on for pages or going over the top.
All in all I really enjoyed this book. It gave echoes of being a romantasy while also providing something totally different!
May 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for an eARC.
4/5 stars.
***CONTAINS SPOILERS***
This was a great fast-paced, action-packed romantasy book. This is book 1 of a planned duology and I love how the author finished part of the story, but then left a side door open for the next book (I'm trying not to give too much away). I definitely plan to read the second book once it's released. My only qualm with this book is (and here is where the spoilers come, so if you don't want any spoilers, please stop reading now) how the FMC falls for the MMC when he's wearing an old man disguise. The author describes the disguise as only affecting his face/head because the book states several times that his physique (young) didn't match his face (old and with a long beard). I don't know, it just felt weird and a bit icky to me. I realize that the author needed the MMC to be in a disguise for the premise of the book to work, but maybe it could've been done differently where a young woman isn't falling for a grandpa?
4/5 stars.
***CONTAINS SPOILERS***
This was a great fast-paced, action-packed romantasy book. This is book 1 of a planned duology and I love how the author finished part of the story, but then left a side door open for the next book (I'm trying not to give too much away). I definitely plan to read the second book once it's released. My only qualm with this book is (and here is where the spoilers come, so if you don't want any spoilers, please stop reading now) how the FMC falls for the MMC when he's wearing an old man disguise. The author describes the disguise as only affecting his face/head because the book states several times that his physique (young) didn't match his face (old and with a long beard). I don't know, it just felt weird and a bit icky to me. I realize that the author needed the MMC to be in a disguise for the premise of the book to work, but maybe it could've been done differently where a young woman isn't falling for a grandpa?
January 4, 2026
3.5 stars rounded up
I liked Ashes and Rubble overall, but it didn’t fully land for me.
My biggest issue was the romance. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between Karessa and Clyde/Aeveus. There wasn’t enough longing or yearning. One minute we’re supposed to believe he’s a player, and the next he’s suddenly like, “I love her.” But… why? I needed to see the falling. The slow pull. The tension. Instead it felt like the feelings showed up out of nowhere, and that knocked off a full star for me.
I also took off half a star for the Minotaur section. It felt rushed and a little jumbled, and things wrapped up way too conveniently. I was really hoping for more political intrigue there.
That said, the story itself is fun, the world has potential, and I stayed interested the whole time. If the romance had more build and the plot slowed down just a bit in key places, this could’ve been a higher-rated read for me.
Still solid. Just not quite a knockout.
I liked Ashes and Rubble overall, but it didn’t fully land for me.
My biggest issue was the romance. I just didn’t feel the chemistry between Karessa and Clyde/Aeveus. There wasn’t enough longing or yearning. One minute we’re supposed to believe he’s a player, and the next he’s suddenly like, “I love her.” But… why? I needed to see the falling. The slow pull. The tension. Instead it felt like the feelings showed up out of nowhere, and that knocked off a full star for me.
I also took off half a star for the Minotaur section. It felt rushed and a little jumbled, and things wrapped up way too conveniently. I was really hoping for more political intrigue there.
That said, the story itself is fun, the world has potential, and I stayed interested the whole time. If the romance had more build and the plot slowed down just a bit in key places, this could’ve been a higher-rated read for me.
Still solid. Just not quite a knockout.
April 15, 2025
I've read Ashes & Rubble by Dartanyan Johnson, an adventurous fantasy with a pinch of romance.
It's about a prince Aeveus, who gets accused of murdering his own father, the great King, and escapes prison together with his 2 best friends Matthias and Estriella to find the real murderer. On his path he meets Karessa, a regular human girl, who is in search of prince Aeveus to get the bounty on his head. But she doesn't know it's him, because of a spell. Together they make a wonderous and adventurous journey.
I really loved the story and it got me captivated from minute 1 until the end.
The author has taken us on a journey with trolls, elves, ogre, chimaera's in this wonderful story. Can't wait for the next ones (books) to be released.
I've read this as an arc by Netgalley, the author Dartanyan Johnson and D.CATZ Publishing and I give it definitely a 4-star read!
It's about a prince Aeveus, who gets accused of murdering his own father, the great King, and escapes prison together with his 2 best friends Matthias and Estriella to find the real murderer. On his path he meets Karessa, a regular human girl, who is in search of prince Aeveus to get the bounty on his head. But she doesn't know it's him, because of a spell. Together they make a wonderous and adventurous journey.
I really loved the story and it got me captivated from minute 1 until the end.
The author has taken us on a journey with trolls, elves, ogre, chimaera's in this wonderful story. Can't wait for the next ones (books) to be released.
I've read this as an arc by Netgalley, the author Dartanyan Johnson and D.CATZ Publishing and I give it definitely a 4-star read!
April 26, 2025
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ARC Review ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Ashes and Rubble starts off with the king supposedly being murdered by the prince, but he insists he is innocent. Meanwhile, a girl whose brother died the night of the attack seeks to collect the bounty on the prince’s head to help provide for her brothers wife and child.
This story was a lot of fun to read. There were several great elements of fantasy written in, at times it felt like our characters were going through a D&D campaign traveling from one city to the next and facing various enemies along the way. The characters were well developed and had a lot of depth to them. Overall I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series!
Thank you to Dartanyan Johnson, D.CATZ publishing, and NetGalley for this free eARC in exchange for an unbiased review
Ashes and Rubble starts off with the king supposedly being murdered by the prince, but he insists he is innocent. Meanwhile, a girl whose brother died the night of the attack seeks to collect the bounty on the prince’s head to help provide for her brothers wife and child.
This story was a lot of fun to read. There were several great elements of fantasy written in, at times it felt like our characters were going through a D&D campaign traveling from one city to the next and facing various enemies along the way. The characters were well developed and had a lot of depth to them. Overall I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series!
Thank you to Dartanyan Johnson, D.CATZ publishing, and NetGalley for this free eARC in exchange for an unbiased review
May 15, 2025
Karessa joins a traveling group of Elves and will work with them to track down the murderous Prince...or does she?
Chapters are a good length, with fun titles for each.
The plot twist at around 18% of the story was FUN and unexpected. There are multiple twists and turns along the way.
This world has magical restraints on a person's magic, magical potions, and multiple races. Ranging from elves and goblins to trolls, chimeras, and humans.
The story features a mix of cozy fantasy, a murder mystery, trials/a tournament, and some spice sprinkled on top.
The story ends with the style it kept throughout - with a plot twist!
Solidly paced, easy to follow, and enjoyable banter!
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of Ashes & Rubble (A Kingdom Cast in Shadows, Book 1) by Dartanyan Johnson.
Chapters are a good length, with fun titles for each.
The plot twist at around 18% of the story was FUN and unexpected. There are multiple twists and turns along the way.
This world has magical restraints on a person's magic, magical potions, and multiple races. Ranging from elves and goblins to trolls, chimeras, and humans.
The story features a mix of cozy fantasy, a murder mystery, trials/a tournament, and some spice sprinkled on top.
The story ends with the style it kept throughout - with a plot twist!
Solidly paced, easy to follow, and enjoyable banter!
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of Ashes & Rubble (A Kingdom Cast in Shadows, Book 1) by Dartanyan Johnson.
August 1, 2025
Ashes & Rubble had all the ingredients for a strong fantasy debut—an elven prince on the run, a bounty hunter with her own agenda, and a world full of magic and danger. Unfortunately, it didn’t quite come together for me.
The characters lacked connection and emotional depth, making it hard to stay invested. Key plot points felt forced rather than earned, and the romance subplot was awkwardly introduced, with little chemistry or buildup. I also found myself wanting more background and development for the main characters—the foundations were there, but not enough to truly bring them to life.
There’s definite potential in the concept and world, but the execution fell flat. I was left wishing for more depth, more connection, and a stronger emotional core.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC
The characters lacked connection and emotional depth, making it hard to stay invested. Key plot points felt forced rather than earned, and the romance subplot was awkwardly introduced, with little chemistry or buildup. I also found myself wanting more background and development for the main characters—the foundations were there, but not enough to truly bring them to life.
There’s definite potential in the concept and world, but the execution fell flat. I was left wishing for more depth, more connection, and a stronger emotional core.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC
April 17, 2025
3.75 rounded up to 4
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ashes & Rubble swept me into a dark and vividly imagined world filled with danger, intrigue, and a fascinating mix of mythical creatures. The world-building is easily one of the book’s strongest elements—it felt immersive and fresh, with lore that kept me curious and engaged.
While I occasionally found the FMC a bit petty in her decisions and reactions, she was still compelling in her determination and resilience.
The storyline itself had me flipping pages. I loved how the plot wove together royal betrayal, personal vendettas, and mysterious symbols from forgotten lands. There's a lot to uncover here, and I'm definitely interested to see where the next book takes us!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Ashes & Rubble swept me into a dark and vividly imagined world filled with danger, intrigue, and a fascinating mix of mythical creatures. The world-building is easily one of the book’s strongest elements—it felt immersive and fresh, with lore that kept me curious and engaged.
While I occasionally found the FMC a bit petty in her decisions and reactions, she was still compelling in her determination and resilience.
The storyline itself had me flipping pages. I loved how the plot wove together royal betrayal, personal vendettas, and mysterious symbols from forgotten lands. There's a lot to uncover here, and I'm definitely interested to see where the next book takes us!
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