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Portal Of Realms: Eternal Earth
When the gods created this utopia, a refuge for mortals and magical creatures alike, connected by portals linking to different Realms, they never imagined that a fallen God with a broken soul would unleash chaos, threatening to destroy everything. In response to the latent danger, the Gods summon the Guardians, granting them elemental powers to protect the portals and the realm from darkness.
Amidst magical portals, ancient secrets, and a soul-stirring love, the Guardians will discover that protecting a realm is also confronting oneself.
Welcome to Carrick's Hollow, where magic flourishes and destiny burns.
This begins "Portals of Eternal Earth," the beginning of a romantic fantasy saga with a Gaelic soul that will take you across the threshold into the impossible.
Amidst magical portals, ancient secrets, and a soul-stirring love, the Guardians will discover that protecting a realm is also confronting oneself.
Welcome to Carrick's Hollow, where magic flourishes and destiny burns.
This begins "Portals of Eternal Earth," the beginning of a romantic fantasy saga with a Gaelic soul that will take you across the threshold into the impossible.
722 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2025
2 people are currently reading
9 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
September 12, 2025
" Portals of Realms: Eternal Earth" by Ailed De la Torre is one of those books that makes you lose yourself in a world far from your own. From the very first page, I felt like I was stepping into a realm crafted with love, magic, and so much imagination. The Moon Goddess Cerridwen’s vision of harmony feels so comforting, but it’s the conflict, Kieran’s envy, his pain, and the shadows he carries, that makes the story hit even deeper.
What truly drew me in were the guardians. They’re not just protectors, but beings with emotions, doubts, and longings of their own. Their struggle between sacred duty and personal desires felt so relatable, because isn’t that a battle we all face in our own ways? That human touch made the fantasy world feel alive and real.
While reading, I found myself so absorbed that I completely forgot about time. It felt like I was traveling through portals myself, standing in the middle of this magical yet haunting realm. There were moments that made me pause and think, moments that made me smile, and others that left me quietly reflecting even after I kept the book down.
The author’s world building is stunning; you can almost see the portals shimmering, feel the weight of jealousy, and sense the quiet hope that lingers through it all. This book gave me the feeling of being both comforted and challenged, of questioning what I would choose if I were in their place. Would I follow duty, or my heart?
If you’re looking for a story that blends magic, emotions, and a touch of darkness, this one is a beautiful escape. I closed the last page with my heart full and my mind still wandering in that world.
What truly drew me in were the guardians. They’re not just protectors, but beings with emotions, doubts, and longings of their own. Their struggle between sacred duty and personal desires felt so relatable, because isn’t that a battle we all face in our own ways? That human touch made the fantasy world feel alive and real.
While reading, I found myself so absorbed that I completely forgot about time. It felt like I was traveling through portals myself, standing in the middle of this magical yet haunting realm. There were moments that made me pause and think, moments that made me smile, and others that left me quietly reflecting even after I kept the book down.
The author’s world building is stunning; you can almost see the portals shimmering, feel the weight of jealousy, and sense the quiet hope that lingers through it all. This book gave me the feeling of being both comforted and challenged, of questioning what I would choose if I were in their place. Would I follow duty, or my heart?
If you’re looking for a story that blends magic, emotions, and a touch of darkness, this one is a beautiful escape. I closed the last page with my heart full and my mind still wandering in that world.
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June 6, 2025I will not rate this book now because, as I was a beta reader for it, it would be unfair.
The copy I have read still needs a whole lot of editing before being published.
I do want to share my opinion on the book anyway though, which is that it has got huge potential.
The story has got possibly the most ethereal atmosphere I have ever read about. It literally felt like being thrown in a fairy-tale, which is what attracted me to it. How the author set the atmosphere amazed me. The story is set in this magical place that people can access through portals to go on adventures and share stories, a little paradise created by gods where guardians with mainly elemental powers make sure to keep the darkness and the shadows (led by the god of shadows Kieran himself) that want to destroy it at bay.
THE CHARACTERS
I liked them or, at least, most of them. There is a whole lot of characters in here, and I LOVED that they are ALL generally well developed, each of them having their screen time so that you can follow along with their thoughts and actions. What I think helped this is the decision of the author of using multiple POVs, telling the story mainly in third person but adding here and there a good amount of short first person POVs from one character or another. I particularly loved Etain and her arc.
However, I didn’t like who’s supposed to be the main character Elisa. I’m sorry, but I just didn’t really care about her, I couldn’t feel connected to her, I didn’t understand her actions and I simply didn’t know her well enough, which is a pity given how literally all the other characters are portrayed so well! Especially in the first part of the book, I think the author has some work to do on her.
THE PLOT AND STRUCTURE
The overall structure of the book is definitely well made and makes sense, with a lot of romance, betrayals, obstacles to overcome and a couple of battles, but the execution still needs a little bit of work. Some scenes were repetitive, having multiple POVs about the same identical thing, sometimes even dialogue; some others weren’t really explained well, which left me a bit confused, but I do think that part of the fault here is of grammar mistakes that really really really need to be fixed.
It’s undeniable that it has got potential, though.
I would also say that this book is definitely way heavier on romance than fantasy, so if you are looking for an epic fantasy adventure this is definitely not it.
THE STORYTELLING
Faithful to the ethereal atmosphere of the book, the storytelling makes everything seem super magical. I constantly got the same feeling of when I watched Barbie and the 12 dancing princesses dancing in their bedroom and opening their magical getaway for the first time. Repetitions need to be fixed, but apart from that I thought the storytelling was good, if you are in the mood for this romantic/magical atmosphere.
THE DIALOGUES/INTERACTIONS
Here’s what I think is the biggest flaw of the book and my personal biggest issue with it. What I think the author has to work on the most - apart from grammar mistakes- before publishing. Interactions are lacking. Dialogues are often super short and negligible. I don’t need to be told that “they bonded sharing stories”. I need to see this bond happening with them actually talking about these stories. I don’t want to know that they “shared adventures”. I want to be brought on these adventures with them. Otherwise I will always feel like watching the story from afar as a silent, disinterested spectator rather than living the story alongside the characters.
To conclude, this book still has a lot of things that need to be fixed in my opinion, and I liked the second part WAY more than the first part, but I can picture how it could become, and I can see myself loving it! I can’t wait to read a more refined and polished version of it!
I will also continue to read the series, because there are just too many things that I need to know at this point 😂😍 Looking forward to it!
The copy I have read still needs a whole lot of editing before being published.
I do want to share my opinion on the book anyway though, which is that it has got huge potential.
The story has got possibly the most ethereal atmosphere I have ever read about. It literally felt like being thrown in a fairy-tale, which is what attracted me to it. How the author set the atmosphere amazed me. The story is set in this magical place that people can access through portals to go on adventures and share stories, a little paradise created by gods where guardians with mainly elemental powers make sure to keep the darkness and the shadows (led by the god of shadows Kieran himself) that want to destroy it at bay.
THE CHARACTERS
I liked them or, at least, most of them. There is a whole lot of characters in here, and I LOVED that they are ALL generally well developed, each of them having their screen time so that you can follow along with their thoughts and actions. What I think helped this is the decision of the author of using multiple POVs, telling the story mainly in third person but adding here and there a good amount of short first person POVs from one character or another. I particularly loved Etain and her arc.
However, I didn’t like who’s supposed to be the main character Elisa. I’m sorry, but I just didn’t really care about her, I couldn’t feel connected to her, I didn’t understand her actions and I simply didn’t know her well enough, which is a pity given how literally all the other characters are portrayed so well! Especially in the first part of the book, I think the author has some work to do on her.
THE PLOT AND STRUCTURE
The overall structure of the book is definitely well made and makes sense, with a lot of romance, betrayals, obstacles to overcome and a couple of battles, but the execution still needs a little bit of work. Some scenes were repetitive, having multiple POVs about the same identical thing, sometimes even dialogue; some others weren’t really explained well, which left me a bit confused, but I do think that part of the fault here is of grammar mistakes that really really really need to be fixed.
It’s undeniable that it has got potential, though.
I would also say that this book is definitely way heavier on romance than fantasy, so if you are looking for an epic fantasy adventure this is definitely not it.
THE STORYTELLING
Faithful to the ethereal atmosphere of the book, the storytelling makes everything seem super magical. I constantly got the same feeling of when I watched Barbie and the 12 dancing princesses dancing in their bedroom and opening their magical getaway for the first time. Repetitions need to be fixed, but apart from that I thought the storytelling was good, if you are in the mood for this romantic/magical atmosphere.
THE DIALOGUES/INTERACTIONS
Here’s what I think is the biggest flaw of the book and my personal biggest issue with it. What I think the author has to work on the most - apart from grammar mistakes- before publishing. Interactions are lacking. Dialogues are often super short and negligible. I don’t need to be told that “they bonded sharing stories”. I need to see this bond happening with them actually talking about these stories. I don’t want to know that they “shared adventures”. I want to be brought on these adventures with them. Otherwise I will always feel like watching the story from afar as a silent, disinterested spectator rather than living the story alongside the characters.
To conclude, this book still has a lot of things that need to be fixed in my opinion, and I liked the second part WAY more than the first part, but I can picture how it could become, and I can see myself loving it! I can’t wait to read a more refined and polished version of it!
I will also continue to read the series, because there are just too many things that I need to know at this point 😂😍 Looking forward to it!
September 12, 2025
It is an intriguing work of fiction. I was also immediately hooked by the world-building in the very first chapter gods who made a world of peace for magical creatures and men. Yep, I was hooked from the get!
This is a story of love and loss, hope and hate, and is inspired by a world of war and magic. Amid romance, heartache, and the astonishing revelation of his own unique powers, the journey is a vivid a testament to the wonders at the heart of the world and to the power of love. Characters caught up in love triangles, friends who become lovers and agonizing infatuations are paraded before you!
I also liked how there is not a single obsession with magic and war in this book. The battles are just one facet of the amazing journey the characters undertake to discover themselves throughout. The guardians protect the world, yes, but the world they are protecting is the world they doubt, and fight for; this is what makes them "real" and "believable". I also liked Elisa’s character. She’s unafraid, she’s curious, and she’s just trying to figure it out while being relatable in the real world!
Followers of the World of Shadows series will be treated to a journey through magical lands, full of selkies, elves, dragons as well as vampires. The depth and backstory of these characters make this book unique among all others. Separated by striking and expansive land, the story is entangled with love, desire, and conflict!
There is a lot of world-building to be found in this book and the scenery felt vivid, I felt like I was walking alongside these characters it was so easy to picture directly in to the story. However, it has a very deep emotional core and well-executed character development for a simple plot!
I would say, for fans of fantasy, readers could check out “Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth”. Its narrative is easy to follow and inspires empathy for the main characters. If you love the genre, and the introspection of the self and fantasy worlds, and heroic characters, this is the book for you. It is profoundly reflective, and it draws magic and you come out well-lit, leaving the reader illuminated!
This is a story of love and loss, hope and hate, and is inspired by a world of war and magic. Amid romance, heartache, and the astonishing revelation of his own unique powers, the journey is a vivid a testament to the wonders at the heart of the world and to the power of love. Characters caught up in love triangles, friends who become lovers and agonizing infatuations are paraded before you!
I also liked how there is not a single obsession with magic and war in this book. The battles are just one facet of the amazing journey the characters undertake to discover themselves throughout. The guardians protect the world, yes, but the world they are protecting is the world they doubt, and fight for; this is what makes them "real" and "believable". I also liked Elisa’s character. She’s unafraid, she’s curious, and she’s just trying to figure it out while being relatable in the real world!
Followers of the World of Shadows series will be treated to a journey through magical lands, full of selkies, elves, dragons as well as vampires. The depth and backstory of these characters make this book unique among all others. Separated by striking and expansive land, the story is entangled with love, desire, and conflict!
There is a lot of world-building to be found in this book and the scenery felt vivid, I felt like I was walking alongside these characters it was so easy to picture directly in to the story. However, it has a very deep emotional core and well-executed character development for a simple plot!
I would say, for fans of fantasy, readers could check out “Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth”. Its narrative is easy to follow and inspires empathy for the main characters. If you love the genre, and the introspection of the self and fantasy worlds, and heroic characters, this is the book for you. It is profoundly reflective, and it draws magic and you come out well-lit, leaving the reader illuminated!
April 27, 2025
If you're a fan of dark, romantic fantasy, Portals of Realms: Eternal Earth is a must-read. In this tale, the Gods have crafted a utopian world where mortals and magical beings coexist in harmony. But not everyone is content. Kieran, once cast aside and forgotten, harbors deep jealousy toward this world.
Kieran’s brother was created to embody the divine light favored by the Gods. But when the Gods, fearing a potential threat, cast his brother into Limbo, it was Kieran who was left to bear the crushing weight of that decision. Fueled by resentment, he threatens to awaken the dark shadows and unleash them upon the joyful world. In his rage, he declares that mortals will pay the price for the Gods' betrayal.
To counter the looming darkness, the Gods seek new guardians—beings capable of guiding souls toward the light and away from the shadows. These guardians rise to protect the new realm, eventually taking over as the Gods vanish. Yet Kieran waits in the shadows, biding his time for vengeance.
As the guardians begin to have desires beyond their sacred duties, the question arises: will they stay true to their purpose, or will distraction lead them astray?
If you're yearning for a break from your routine and longing to escape into a richly imagined world, this book is your gateway. Told through multiple perspectives, the author handles the transitions masterfully. The vivid world-building and creativity left me thoroughly impressed. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment!
Kieran’s brother was created to embody the divine light favored by the Gods. But when the Gods, fearing a potential threat, cast his brother into Limbo, it was Kieran who was left to bear the crushing weight of that decision. Fueled by resentment, he threatens to awaken the dark shadows and unleash them upon the joyful world. In his rage, he declares that mortals will pay the price for the Gods' betrayal.
To counter the looming darkness, the Gods seek new guardians—beings capable of guiding souls toward the light and away from the shadows. These guardians rise to protect the new realm, eventually taking over as the Gods vanish. Yet Kieran waits in the shadows, biding his time for vengeance.
As the guardians begin to have desires beyond their sacred duties, the question arises: will they stay true to their purpose, or will distraction lead them astray?
If you're yearning for a break from your routine and longing to escape into a richly imagined world, this book is your gateway. Told through multiple perspectives, the author handles the transitions masterfully. The vivid world-building and creativity left me thoroughly impressed. I can’t wait to dive into the next installment!
September 16, 2025
Do you want to read about a chosen one, ancient old prophecies, gods and their grudges, and the fight of dark and light? And all of this happens in a magical world with many magical portals that will take you on different adventures? Then just pick this book up and you will be transported there immediately.
But if you like to read books with fast-paced, rapid action, then you should skip this one. The book is the first book of an epic adventure series, and we will slowly get to know about this world and its elements.
I love how beautifully and intricately the author explains the history of Carrick's Hollow, the gods and goddesses who are the creators of this magical realm, the threat and fear they have for their creations, and how they themselves are. We also get the villain's POV and his deepest thoughts and desires, which makes you understand him and will be intrigued by his schemes. And while getting all these long introductions, you won't ever feel bored or info dumping, yet they'll be exciting and fascinating.
Even though the main plot of the book is war between light and dark, saving humanity and Carrick's Hollow from the darkness, Kieran, the plot that will touch you is the characters' search for the purposes of their lives, finding their long-lost belief.
Overall the book, as the first book of a series, is able to give us a good picture of the world and the plot, which will help the reader to prepare for the upcoming uphill. So if you love to read fantasy with a bit of romance, adventures, dramas, myths, and everything, or if you are a beginner, then you should read this book.
But if you like to read books with fast-paced, rapid action, then you should skip this one. The book is the first book of an epic adventure series, and we will slowly get to know about this world and its elements.
I love how beautifully and intricately the author explains the history of Carrick's Hollow, the gods and goddesses who are the creators of this magical realm, the threat and fear they have for their creations, and how they themselves are. We also get the villain's POV and his deepest thoughts and desires, which makes you understand him and will be intrigued by his schemes. And while getting all these long introductions, you won't ever feel bored or info dumping, yet they'll be exciting and fascinating.
Even though the main plot of the book is war between light and dark, saving humanity and Carrick's Hollow from the darkness, Kieran, the plot that will touch you is the characters' search for the purposes of their lives, finding their long-lost belief.
Overall the book, as the first book of a series, is able to give us a good picture of the world and the plot, which will help the reader to prepare for the upcoming uphill. So if you love to read fantasy with a bit of romance, adventures, dramas, myths, and everything, or if you are a beginner, then you should read this book.
September 12, 2025
You know when you finish a book and you just have to sit with it for a minute? That was me with this one. I just closed the cover on "Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth" and my first thought was, "Wow, I really need to tell someone about this."
It starts with these gods creating this whole world, Carrick's Hollow, and right away I was hooked. It wasn't just a bunch of complicated lore; it felt like being told a really good secret about a place where magic is real and everyone actually gets along. It just made me feel optimistic.
But here's the thing—the cool world is just the setting. The real story is about the characters. You know, the guardians in this story don't feel like distant, perfect superheroes. They mess up, they question their choices, and they dream about things outside of their duty. I found myself nodding along, like, "Yeah, I get that." And Elisa? She's fantastic. She's thrown into this insane situation and handles it with a mix of bravery and confusion that feels so genuine. I was totally on her side.
It's got everything: fun magic, great adventures, friendships that matter, and a romance that doesn't feel rushed. The author describes everything so well—I could perfectly picture those glowing portals and the ancient forests. It all just came alive in my head.
Basically, if you're looking for a fantasy that's about the people as much as the magic, you should pick this up. It's the kind of book that stays with you, making you think about the characters like they're old friends. I'm still thinking about it.
It starts with these gods creating this whole world, Carrick's Hollow, and right away I was hooked. It wasn't just a bunch of complicated lore; it felt like being told a really good secret about a place where magic is real and everyone actually gets along. It just made me feel optimistic.
But here's the thing—the cool world is just the setting. The real story is about the characters. You know, the guardians in this story don't feel like distant, perfect superheroes. They mess up, they question their choices, and they dream about things outside of their duty. I found myself nodding along, like, "Yeah, I get that." And Elisa? She's fantastic. She's thrown into this insane situation and handles it with a mix of bravery and confusion that feels so genuine. I was totally on her side.
It's got everything: fun magic, great adventures, friendships that matter, and a romance that doesn't feel rushed. The author describes everything so well—I could perfectly picture those glowing portals and the ancient forests. It all just came alive in my head.
Basically, if you're looking for a fantasy that's about the people as much as the magic, you should pick this up. It's the kind of book that stays with you, making you think about the characters like they're old friends. I'm still thinking about it.
April 20, 2025
"Portals of Realms – Eternal Earth" by Ailed De la Torre is a captivating fantasy novel that draws readers into a richly imagined world. The Moon Goddess, Cerridwen, envisions a realm where magical beings and mortals coexist in harmony. To bring this vision to life, portals powered by magic are created.
But not everyone welcomes this vision. Kieran, cast aside and consumed by envy, chooses bitterness over love despite being advised otherwise. He vows that mortals will suffer for their place in this new realm. In response, Cerridwen creates guardians to protect them. The gods, in their judgment, banish Kieran’s brother to Limbo—a punishment that deeply affects Kieran.
Centuries pass. The gods are gone, and peace settles over Carrick’s Hollow. The guardians continue to fulfill their sacred duties, but deep inside, they yearn to discover who they are beyond their roles. Meanwhile, Kieran waits in the underworld’s shadows, ready to strike. As darkness looms, the guardians face a choice: follow their duty or pursue their personal desires.
The concept of a new magical realm is fascinating, and the author's vivid imagination shines through every page. The title fits the story perfectly. With smooth narration and a compelling storyline, this book is ideal for readers who enjoy stories with a diverse cast of characters. I was so engrossed that I momentarily forgot the world around me.
But not everyone welcomes this vision. Kieran, cast aside and consumed by envy, chooses bitterness over love despite being advised otherwise. He vows that mortals will suffer for their place in this new realm. In response, Cerridwen creates guardians to protect them. The gods, in their judgment, banish Kieran’s brother to Limbo—a punishment that deeply affects Kieran.
Centuries pass. The gods are gone, and peace settles over Carrick’s Hollow. The guardians continue to fulfill their sacred duties, but deep inside, they yearn to discover who they are beyond their roles. Meanwhile, Kieran waits in the underworld’s shadows, ready to strike. As darkness looms, the guardians face a choice: follow their duty or pursue their personal desires.
The concept of a new magical realm is fascinating, and the author's vivid imagination shines through every page. The title fits the story perfectly. With smooth narration and a compelling storyline, this book is ideal for readers who enjoy stories with a diverse cast of characters. I was so engrossed that I momentarily forgot the world around me.
May 5, 2025
The Moon Goddess, Cerridwen, devised a plan to create something truly extraordinary. She proposed the creation of a new realm where magical beings and mortals could coexist in harmony. Together, they summoned powerful magic to open portals into this new world.
Kieran, a brother to the gods, was invited to help shape the future of the mortals. However, he felt alienated, as though his purpose had been diminished to just being a legend. Consumed by envy, he failed to recognize the strength and potential within himself. In response to his growing threats, the gods created glowing portals and powerful guardians to protect the mortals. Over time, these guardians managed to uphold peace and order in the realm.
One day, guardians Eamon and Aithne began to question their purpose, yearning for something beyond their assigned roles. Will Kieran sense this stirring of change—and use it to his advantage?
The creation of the new realm was especially captivating. The narrative is immersive, with a richly developed setting. For anyone looking to escape the mundane and dive into a fantastical world, this book is a must-read.
Overall, it’s a compelling story with a strong plot and surprising twists.
Kieran, a brother to the gods, was invited to help shape the future of the mortals. However, he felt alienated, as though his purpose had been diminished to just being a legend. Consumed by envy, he failed to recognize the strength and potential within himself. In response to his growing threats, the gods created glowing portals and powerful guardians to protect the mortals. Over time, these guardians managed to uphold peace and order in the realm.
One day, guardians Eamon and Aithne began to question their purpose, yearning for something beyond their assigned roles. Will Kieran sense this stirring of change—and use it to his advantage?
The creation of the new realm was especially captivating. The narrative is immersive, with a richly developed setting. For anyone looking to escape the mundane and dive into a fantastical world, this book is a must-read.
Overall, it’s a compelling story with a strong plot and surprising twists.
August 19, 2025
Step into Carrick’s Hollow, a place where ancient gods once came together in harmony. This book is a breathtaking mix of magic, myth, and emotion. Ana de la Torre crafts a powerful narrative where elemental guardians must balance duty with desire, loyalty with love. Each page feels alive with the pulse of divine magic and ancient prophecy, making you question if fate is ever truly in your hands.This first installment in the Portals of Realms series is enchanting from start to finish.
Elisa’s transformation from an ordinary girl to a chosen warrior is deeply moving. As she faces age-old prophecies, internal struggles, and legendary elemental guardians, the burden of destiny becomes real. Her story is full of quiet strength, slow-burn romance, and loyal friendships, all set against a backdrop of danger and beauty. The characters are layered and flawed in the most human way, making them unforgettable.
This book blends Gaelic magic, emotional depth, and high-stakes adventure. With mythical creatures, sacred bonds, and unexpected twists, the plot never slows down. Whether you’re here for the action, the magic, or the emotions, this fantasy strikes the perfect balance.When the wrath of a forgotten god threatens Carrick’s Hollow, the only thing you can do is hold your breath — and turn the next page. Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is not just a story — it's a call to belive in magic again
Elisa’s transformation from an ordinary girl to a chosen warrior is deeply moving. As she faces age-old prophecies, internal struggles, and legendary elemental guardians, the burden of destiny becomes real. Her story is full of quiet strength, slow-burn romance, and loyal friendships, all set against a backdrop of danger and beauty. The characters are layered and flawed in the most human way, making them unforgettable.
This book blends Gaelic magic, emotional depth, and high-stakes adventure. With mythical creatures, sacred bonds, and unexpected twists, the plot never slows down. Whether you’re here for the action, the magic, or the emotions, this fantasy strikes the perfect balance.When the wrath of a forgotten god threatens Carrick’s Hollow, the only thing you can do is hold your breath — and turn the next page. Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is not just a story — it's a call to belive in magic again
May 6, 2025
Magic? Check.
Romance? Double check.
Ancient gods, vengeful curses, & spicy magical creatures? YES, PLEASE!
Just finished Portals of Realms: Eternal Earth and I’m OBSESSED!
Welcome to Carrick’s Hollow—a realm where gods shaped the land, guardians wield elemental powers, and destinies are tangled in prophecy and passion.
Elisa, a brave soul from another realm, stumbles into this magical chaos and finds herself at the heart of a war between light and darkness.
There’s everything you want in a Romantasy: slow-burn romance, friends-to-lovers tension, love triangles, epic battles, and heartbreak that’ll hit you right in the feels.
The worldbuilding? Chef’s kiss—so vivid, it felt like I was walking alongside selkies, unicorns, and dragons.
And don’t even get me started on the emotional rollercoaster—the twists, the betrayals, the moments that made me swoon and scream!
If you’re into Irish-Gaelic inspired fantasy, spicy guardians, ancient gods, and stories that stir your soul, THIS is your next read. Book 1 has set the stage for something EPIC. I’m all in for this series!
Romance? Double check.
Ancient gods, vengeful curses, & spicy magical creatures? YES, PLEASE!
Just finished Portals of Realms: Eternal Earth and I’m OBSESSED!
Welcome to Carrick’s Hollow—a realm where gods shaped the land, guardians wield elemental powers, and destinies are tangled in prophecy and passion.
Elisa, a brave soul from another realm, stumbles into this magical chaos and finds herself at the heart of a war between light and darkness.
There’s everything you want in a Romantasy: slow-burn romance, friends-to-lovers tension, love triangles, epic battles, and heartbreak that’ll hit you right in the feels.
The worldbuilding? Chef’s kiss—so vivid, it felt like I was walking alongside selkies, unicorns, and dragons.
And don’t even get me started on the emotional rollercoaster—the twists, the betrayals, the moments that made me swoon and scream!
If you’re into Irish-Gaelic inspired fantasy, spicy guardians, ancient gods, and stories that stir your soul, THIS is your next read. Book 1 has set the stage for something EPIC. I’m all in for this series!
May 4, 2025
In a realm forged by the Gods, mortals and magical beings coexist under the watchful eyes of the Guardians—each one bestowed with a unique power to uphold order and defend against encroaching shadows.
For Étáin, Eamon has long been the object of her affection. She often wonders why he keeps his heart locked away, bound so tightly to duty that he leaves no room for joy. She believes he could embrace both love and responsibility—but his cold indifference stings, especially when she knows she offers everything he could want. In her heart, she’s imagined a life where Eamon chooses her—fully, passionately, without restraint.
Yet Eamon remains ever-vigilant, sensing the dark presence of Kieran creeping closer. As tensions rise, it would be interesting to find out will Étáin pull him from his purpose, or will duty always come first?
This fantasy novel is a mesmerizing journey through a vividly imagined world where magic breathes life into every page. With rich storytelling, complex characters, and emotional depth, it lingers long after the final chapter—an unforgettable tale that reshapes what fantasy can be.
For Étáin, Eamon has long been the object of her affection. She often wonders why he keeps his heart locked away, bound so tightly to duty that he leaves no room for joy. She believes he could embrace both love and responsibility—but his cold indifference stings, especially when she knows she offers everything he could want. In her heart, she’s imagined a life where Eamon chooses her—fully, passionately, without restraint.
Yet Eamon remains ever-vigilant, sensing the dark presence of Kieran creeping closer. As tensions rise, it would be interesting to find out will Étáin pull him from his purpose, or will duty always come first?
This fantasy novel is a mesmerizing journey through a vividly imagined world where magic breathes life into every page. With rich storytelling, complex characters, and emotional depth, it lingers long after the final chapter—an unforgettable tale that reshapes what fantasy can be.
August 18, 2025
Magic, love and conflict. Follow the journey of Carricks Hollow and its inhabitants during a time of discovery, turmoil and love ❤️
If you like:
🧎♂️➡️Multiple point of views🧎♀️
🪄Magical and enchanting settings🌳
✨️Magic and shadows🖤
💥Protectors of the realm💫
❤️🔥Love and heart ache💔
💬Intriguing main and side characters💭
Check out this long and beefy novel!
The story starts woth the creation of Carricks Hollow and the gods that put protections in place. It moves on to the guardians point of view and introduces the protagonists. Elisa soon comes to explore and shake some of the guardians. There is love and excitement before Jealousy and evil causes heartbreak. Soon Elisa rediscovers herself woth the help of another and begins to love again. Of course evil seeks to keep them apart and Elisa is lost and cannot return. Part two, describes the journey to coming home and explores even more characters who are lost and seeking a part of themselves.
This is a well written book that is intriguing and sucks you in. There is quite a bit of spice but it is described in a tasteful and non graphic way, paired with beautiful metaphors and insights.
This book is extremely long and pronunciation of the places and some character names is difficult, so I would recommend this book to someone who is already a huge magic and fantasy fans.
If you like:
🧎♂️➡️Multiple point of views🧎♀️
🪄Magical and enchanting settings🌳
✨️Magic and shadows🖤
💥Protectors of the realm💫
❤️🔥Love and heart ache💔
💬Intriguing main and side characters💭
Check out this long and beefy novel!
The story starts woth the creation of Carricks Hollow and the gods that put protections in place. It moves on to the guardians point of view and introduces the protagonists. Elisa soon comes to explore and shake some of the guardians. There is love and excitement before Jealousy and evil causes heartbreak. Soon Elisa rediscovers herself woth the help of another and begins to love again. Of course evil seeks to keep them apart and Elisa is lost and cannot return. Part two, describes the journey to coming home and explores even more characters who are lost and seeking a part of themselves.
This is a well written book that is intriguing and sucks you in. There is quite a bit of spice but it is described in a tasteful and non graphic way, paired with beautiful metaphors and insights.
This book is extremely long and pronunciation of the places and some character names is difficult, so I would recommend this book to someone who is already a huge magic and fantasy fans.
September 15, 2025
Ailed de la Torre weaves a tale where gods breathe life into a utopia, only to see it threatened by bitterness and vengeance. Carrick’s Hollow, with its portals and ancient guardians, becomes the heart of a story that blends divine creation with human longing. Elisa, pulled into this realm, discovers secrets that connect her to prophecies and powers greater than she imagined, while the guardians wrestle with their identities and loyalties as the shadow of a rejected god looms.
This book takes us to a place where language itself holds magic. The writing is absolutely brilliant. It got me hooked right from the first page. The descriptions of landscapes are vivid and the world building is immaculate.
The story got me turning pages. The author manages to balance grandeur with intimacy. She makes myth and lore shine. I loved how smoothly the story shifted from quiet, contemplative moments to passages brimming with power. Every word seemed carefully placed. I would definitely want to read the next one in the series. This book is powerful and immersive, filled with passion and elegance.
This book takes us to a place where language itself holds magic. The writing is absolutely brilliant. It got me hooked right from the first page. The descriptions of landscapes are vivid and the world building is immaculate.
The story got me turning pages. The author manages to balance grandeur with intimacy. She makes myth and lore shine. I loved how smoothly the story shifted from quiet, contemplative moments to passages brimming with power. Every word seemed carefully placed. I would definitely want to read the next one in the series. This book is powerful and immersive, filled with passion and elegance.
August 19, 2025
Portals of Realms was such an imaginative and adventurous read. From the very first chapter, I was pulled into Ana de la Torre’s vivid world-building—every realm felt unique and magical, almost like stepping into a dreamscape. The way the characters moved through these portals and discovered new worlds was written with so much detail that I could picture it all in my head.
I especially loved how the friendships and connections between the characters grew as the story unfolded. There were moments where I felt completely invested in their choices, cheering for them when they succeeded and aching when things didn’t go their way.
The only reason I’ve held back from giving it a full 5 stars is that at times the pacing felt a little uneven—I found myself wanting a bit more development in certain scenes while other parts raced ahead too quickly. But honestly, that’s a small critique compared to the overall experience.
If you’re someone who loves being transported into different realms, with plenty of twists and turns along the way, this book is definitely worth picking up. I really enjoyed it, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from Ana de la Torre!
I especially loved how the friendships and connections between the characters grew as the story unfolded. There were moments where I felt completely invested in their choices, cheering for them when they succeeded and aching when things didn’t go their way.
The only reason I’ve held back from giving it a full 5 stars is that at times the pacing felt a little uneven—I found myself wanting a bit more development in certain scenes while other parts raced ahead too quickly. But honestly, that’s a small critique compared to the overall experience.
If you’re someone who loves being transported into different realms, with plenty of twists and turns along the way, this book is definitely worth picking up. I really enjoyed it, and I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from Ana de la Torre!
August 3, 2025
A dark romance fantasy that makes you feel like you’ve been thrown into a fairy tale?? This is it 😩
Now I’ll admit, the size of the book was intimidating at first but gosh it’s worth it! The storytelling has a way of sucking you in, making you forget reality and making you never want to leave. It’s a book that gives you detailed lore, which we love and that coupled with the battle of Destiny and love? 🤩 worth the read!
Now I’ll admit, the size of the book was intimidating at first but gosh it’s worth it! The storytelling has a way of sucking you in, making you forget reality and making you never want to leave. It’s a book that gives you detailed lore, which we love and that coupled with the battle of Destiny and love? 🤩 worth the read!
August 18, 2025
4⭐️
Thank you to the berry agency and the author for the arc!
This book was incredible I’ve definitely been craving a romantasy lately and this was exactly what I needed.
Absolutely loved the romance in this series, it had slow-burn which is my fave. I loved all of the characters as well.
The world building was amazing as well and the overall world just felt like you were in a fairytale. The overall plot was super interesting and had me hooked the whole time.
I would highly recommend this book if you love romantasy and can’t wait to see what the rest of the series will bring.
Thank you to the berry agency and the author for the arc!
This book was incredible I’ve definitely been craving a romantasy lately and this was exactly what I needed.
Absolutely loved the romance in this series, it had slow-burn which is my fave. I loved all of the characters as well.
The world building was amazing as well and the overall world just felt like you were in a fairytale. The overall plot was super interesting and had me hooked the whole time.
I would highly recommend this book if you love romantasy and can’t wait to see what the rest of the series will bring.
May 29, 2025
Book Review: Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth by Ana De La Torre Salazar
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth, the first installment in Ana De La Torre Salazar’s epic Portals of Realms series, is an imaginative, emotionally rich dive into a world where ancient magic, divine prophecy, and personal destiny collide.
Set in the vividly crafted Carrick’s Hollow—a mystical realm born of divine collaboration and threatened by divine betrayal—this fantasy adventure blends Gaelic-Irish mythology with lush world-building and a tapestry of elemental powers. Salazar’s narrative brims with magical creatures, slow-burn romances, and conflicted heroes, creating a layered story that will captivate fans of epic fantasy and character-driven sagas alike.
At the heart of the tale is Elisa, a young woman thrust from her world into a realm teetering on the edge of chaos. Her journey of discovery is both external and deeply personal, filled with trials that challenge her courage and identity. Alongside elemental guardians and other supernatural beings, Elisa must uncover her past and find her place in a land whose fate may rest in her hands.
Themes of love, betrayal, loyalty, and destiny unfold amidst thrilling action, breathtaking landscapes, and tangled relationships. Salazar doesn't shy away from emotional depth—every battle, heartbreak, and moment of connection is infused with sincerity and purpose.
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is an ambitious, spellbinding debut that promises even more magic, mystery, and heartache as the series unfolds. Perfect for readers who love immersive fantasy worlds, elemental magic, and stories that blend ancient lore with modern emotional stakes. Don't miss the beginning of what is sure to be a standout fantasy saga.
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth, the first installment in Ana De La Torre Salazar’s epic Portals of Realms series, is an imaginative, emotionally rich dive into a world where ancient magic, divine prophecy, and personal destiny collide.
Set in the vividly crafted Carrick’s Hollow—a mystical realm born of divine collaboration and threatened by divine betrayal—this fantasy adventure blends Gaelic-Irish mythology with lush world-building and a tapestry of elemental powers. Salazar’s narrative brims with magical creatures, slow-burn romances, and conflicted heroes, creating a layered story that will captivate fans of epic fantasy and character-driven sagas alike.
At the heart of the tale is Elisa, a young woman thrust from her world into a realm teetering on the edge of chaos. Her journey of discovery is both external and deeply personal, filled with trials that challenge her courage and identity. Alongside elemental guardians and other supernatural beings, Elisa must uncover her past and find her place in a land whose fate may rest in her hands.
Themes of love, betrayal, loyalty, and destiny unfold amidst thrilling action, breathtaking landscapes, and tangled relationships. Salazar doesn't shy away from emotional depth—every battle, heartbreak, and moment of connection is infused with sincerity and purpose.
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is an ambitious, spellbinding debut that promises even more magic, mystery, and heartache as the series unfolds. Perfect for readers who love immersive fantasy worlds, elemental magic, and stories that blend ancient lore with modern emotional stakes. Don't miss the beginning of what is sure to be a standout fantasy saga.
August 11, 2025
You get so caught up in the incredible world building at the start of this book you almost forget it’s a fantasy romance until the freaky little dark monster guys (the Eithar’s) come in the scene and there’s dark magic sex initiation.
This book offers everything you could want:
Magic? Check
Spicy dark monsters and shadows? Double check
Romance? Most definitely
Betrayal? Yup it’s got that too
The beautiful world building and all the dynamics and relationships are definitely setting the scene for something epic to come in the rest of the series. and I am SAT.
This book offers everything you could want:
Magic? Check
Spicy dark monsters and shadows? Double check
Romance? Most definitely
Betrayal? Yup it’s got that too
The beautiful world building and all the dynamics and relationships are definitely setting the scene for something epic to come in the rest of the series. and I am SAT.
June 8, 2025
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth by Ana de la Torre Salazar whisks readers into the magical world of Carrick’s Hollow, where elemental guardians, ancient gods, and mythical creatures stir a high-stakes fantasy rooted in Gaelic-Irish lore. As Elisa—a girl from another realm—is pulled into prophecy and divine conflict, the story weaves themes of love, identity, and sacrifice. With rich world-building, slow-burn romance, and emotional depth, this epic is perfect for fans of immersive, character-driven adventures.
May 17, 2025
Portal of Realms Eternal Earth by Ana de la Torre Salazar
Ana de la Torre Salazar’s Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is a captivating fusion of mythology, magic, and emotion that immerses readers in a richly crafted universe influenced by ancient deities and protected by elemental guardians. Set in the stunning land of Carrick’s Hollow—a realm created from divine harmony—the story opens with the celestial formation of a paradise where humans and magical creatures live together. However, paradise is not without its darkness. When a wronged god seeks revenge, the equilibrium of the universe starts to falter.
Central to this narrative is a fascinating blend of mythological elements and deeply personal journeys. Drawing from Gaelic-Irish traditions, Salazar presents a remarkable variety of fantastical beings—selkies, dragons, unicorns, vampires, and elves—interwoven into the fabric of the tale. Her worldbuilding is both enchanting and realistic, featuring vibrant landscapes, ancient sorcery, and portals that blur the boundaries between dreams and reality.
The guardians of Carrick’s Hollow, each possessing elemental abilities, confront challenges that extend beyond external dangers. They wrestle with their identities, purposes, and the clash between fate and personal desires. Themes of love, loss, and loyalty unfold through emotional narratives that include slow-burn romances, love triangles, and friends-to-lovers dynamics. These personal conflicts are as compelling as the overarching cosmic struggle.
Elisa, the young heroine from another realm, offers a relatable perspective for readers as they navigate this magical world. Her quest for self-discovery—both in Carrick’s Hollow and regarding her own forgotten history—adds depth and emotional resonance to the epic tale.
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is the inaugural installment in a promising series that merges exhilarating adventure, magical lore, emotional richness, and diverse characters into an unforgettable narrative. It tells a story of unity amidst chaos, where love and magic may be the final defense against a god’s fury. This book is a must-read for fans of high fantasy with emotional depth.
July 28, 2025
When you pick up Postal of Realms you feel like youre being thrown into a fairytale with its exquisite and celestial feel. Ana uses Gaelic and Irish lore to craft a world which was created by the Gods a world where magical beings and mortal can co exist, and Portals exist to transport people to this new world.
The narration works beautifully to compose a compelling story which manages to pull the reader into this magical world with a diverse range of characters, from all scopes within the stories setting.
The dark fantasy romance is captivating and really makes you forget the world around you exists allowing for a real escape from reality.
The use of love, betrayal, loyalty, lore and destiny beautifully allow for a captivating story which pulls you into its holds well beyond closing the last chapter of the book.
July 30, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book. There will be spoilers in my review.
Brief summary: This is a fantasy fiction that takes place mostly in Carrick's Hollow. This place was created by the God's so that all the different realms had a place to come together. They created Guardians to protect Carrick's Hallow from the Shadow's(underworld). You get to learn about each Guardian as well as some other characters. You will experience magic, love, war and friendship in this book. You will go on an adventure with these characters. Immerse yourself and enjoy this magical world.
Plot: The story is featured predominantly in Carrick's Hollow but there is some scenes that happens in the Human realm. 4 months in Carrick's Hollow is 4 years in the Human realm. This is a war between good and evil ;Love and hate. Where love and friendships are tested.
Characters and development: The first introduction was to the God's but I'm not going to elaborate on them as they were only mentioned due to them creating Carrick's Hollow. There was a few side character as well like Edith and Moira. They are mentioned frequently but they act more as a support to the main character and you understood their placement in the story immediately. Lysander was also a Character and although he portrayed to be evil, at the end I didn't understand his role but maybe that will become clearer in the next book.
Guardians: Eamon, Taliesin, Frinne, Aithne and Caireann: They are main character, their roles are described perfectly. You get to know their strengths and weaknesses and also their bonds with each other and their love interest.
Elisa is a main character from the human realm that falls in love with Eamon but due to his betrayal she ends up with Firinne which is actually her perfect partner. She goes through challenges herself but she never gives up. She is a strong female character.
Etain is another maim character but unfortunately her greed for power and the fact that she doesn't like hearing the word 'no' had her getting involved with black magic which lead her over to the evil side as well as her involvement with the underworld.
Kieran was a God but he was the God of the Shadow's and he wanted to take revenge on the other God's for banishing his brother. So he started plotting. He then saw Etain's greed and used it to manipulate her. They then started the to take souls and tried to overthrow the Guardians.
Elena/Aisling and Liam was introduced very late into the book, you get a brief rundown of thier lives from childhood but enough to use as a background to their character development. Although they were considered main character in the chapters that was about them, in the end I see them as supporting characters to help reunited Elisa with Firinne and help fight the shadows.
Positives: Great story line. Good character descriptions and development. Story is told from different characters. Although there was some confusion everything came together in the end.
Negatives: No indication of time. One moment Elisa woke up from a dream with Lysander and the next there is three new characters and I didn't understand who they were or where they suddenly came from. There was also a bit of repetition but it was manageable.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and I would recommend it to anyone that likes fantasy fiction.
Brief summary: This is a fantasy fiction that takes place mostly in Carrick's Hollow. This place was created by the God's so that all the different realms had a place to come together. They created Guardians to protect Carrick's Hallow from the Shadow's(underworld). You get to learn about each Guardian as well as some other characters. You will experience magic, love, war and friendship in this book. You will go on an adventure with these characters. Immerse yourself and enjoy this magical world.
Plot: The story is featured predominantly in Carrick's Hollow but there is some scenes that happens in the Human realm. 4 months in Carrick's Hollow is 4 years in the Human realm. This is a war between good and evil ;Love and hate. Where love and friendships are tested.
Characters and development: The first introduction was to the God's but I'm not going to elaborate on them as they were only mentioned due to them creating Carrick's Hollow. There was a few side character as well like Edith and Moira. They are mentioned frequently but they act more as a support to the main character and you understood their placement in the story immediately. Lysander was also a Character and although he portrayed to be evil, at the end I didn't understand his role but maybe that will become clearer in the next book.
Guardians: Eamon, Taliesin, Frinne, Aithne and Caireann: They are main character, their roles are described perfectly. You get to know their strengths and weaknesses and also their bonds with each other and their love interest.
Elisa is a main character from the human realm that falls in love with Eamon but due to his betrayal she ends up with Firinne which is actually her perfect partner. She goes through challenges herself but she never gives up. She is a strong female character.
Etain is another maim character but unfortunately her greed for power and the fact that she doesn't like hearing the word 'no' had her getting involved with black magic which lead her over to the evil side as well as her involvement with the underworld.
Kieran was a God but he was the God of the Shadow's and he wanted to take revenge on the other God's for banishing his brother. So he started plotting. He then saw Etain's greed and used it to manipulate her. They then started the to take souls and tried to overthrow the Guardians.
Elena/Aisling and Liam was introduced very late into the book, you get a brief rundown of thier lives from childhood but enough to use as a background to their character development. Although they were considered main character in the chapters that was about them, in the end I see them as supporting characters to help reunited Elisa with Firinne and help fight the shadows.
Positives: Great story line. Good character descriptions and development. Story is told from different characters. Although there was some confusion everything came together in the end.
Negatives: No indication of time. One moment Elisa woke up from a dream with Lysander and the next there is three new characters and I didn't understand who they were or where they suddenly came from. There was also a bit of repetition but it was manageable.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and I would recommend it to anyone that likes fantasy fiction.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 13, 2025First want to thank the Berry Agency for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for a review.
Honestly I was unable to finish this book without skipping pages. As it was an ARC in exchange for a review, I tried to skip ahead to see if it got better, see how the plot developed or if anything could peak my interest. I really tried to read this book but the writing was so stilted and awkward that I couldn't focus.
There is a lot of showing instead of telling. It would say that 'the characters continued to get to know each other and shared stories' but that was it - no examples of stories they shared.
The main character is briefly introduced in the prologue but then we don't see her again until the 5th chapter and even then it would be hard to tell she is the main character since there is no focus on her arrival except that another character is attracted to her.
The characters themselves feel very 2 dimensional. The author does spend a lot of time describing the guardians and the god/esses but the effect still falls flat, I'm still left wondering at the motives and they don't feel fully fleshed out. I know exactly how they look but their personalities feel lacklustre. The villain is given a motive but it doesn't feel convincing.
The pacing is also odd. This whole world and universe is built in the first 2 or 3 pages and then nothing else happens until chapter 5 when the MC arrives. But even her arrival doesn't get fleshing out. The timing also left me guessing. The verbiage would be imply that much time is passing but then it would only be the next day - I think this links back to the showing instead of telling. They have to tell us something is happening instead of giving us an example so then it implies something the author didn't intend.
I personally don't like the changing POV between 3rd and 1st person. Maybe this is someone's else’s cup of tea but it gets repetitive as we re-watch a scene from a new perspective, without good reason. We need to get new information, information that's hidden from another character to advance the plot.
The concept is really cool and I really wanted to enjoy it but in my honest opinion it needs a lot of reworking before it's ready for the public viewing.
Honestly I was unable to finish this book without skipping pages. As it was an ARC in exchange for a review, I tried to skip ahead to see if it got better, see how the plot developed or if anything could peak my interest. I really tried to read this book but the writing was so stilted and awkward that I couldn't focus.
There is a lot of showing instead of telling. It would say that 'the characters continued to get to know each other and shared stories' but that was it - no examples of stories they shared.
The main character is briefly introduced in the prologue but then we don't see her again until the 5th chapter and even then it would be hard to tell she is the main character since there is no focus on her arrival except that another character is attracted to her.
The characters themselves feel very 2 dimensional. The author does spend a lot of time describing the guardians and the god/esses but the effect still falls flat, I'm still left wondering at the motives and they don't feel fully fleshed out. I know exactly how they look but their personalities feel lacklustre. The villain is given a motive but it doesn't feel convincing.
The pacing is also odd. This whole world and universe is built in the first 2 or 3 pages and then nothing else happens until chapter 5 when the MC arrives. But even her arrival doesn't get fleshing out. The timing also left me guessing. The verbiage would be imply that much time is passing but then it would only be the next day - I think this links back to the showing instead of telling. They have to tell us something is happening instead of giving us an example so then it implies something the author didn't intend.
I personally don't like the changing POV between 3rd and 1st person. Maybe this is someone's else’s cup of tea but it gets repetitive as we re-watch a scene from a new perspective, without good reason. We need to get new information, information that's hidden from another character to advance the plot.
The concept is really cool and I really wanted to enjoy it but in my honest opinion it needs a lot of reworking before it's ready for the public viewing.
August 13, 2025
I want to thank the Berry Agency for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for a review!
Let me start off by saying this book had the potential to be a truly beautiful epic fantasy-romance. The bones of world is there, and the writing is both lyrical and poetic. This author writes in a way that is very immersive and could be enjoyable for some people.
Unfortunately, that wasn't the case for me.
One of the biggest weaknesses in this book is the structure. The narration often switches from third person to first person in one chapter which disrupts the overall flow. The same event also gets narrated multiple times because of the switching (from multiple character POVs) which I found to be very repetitive. I can see the vision of the multiple POVs (to show each character's thoughts and feelings of that same event I suppose), but was executed very poorly.
The narration felt bland and impersonal because of its weak narrative voice. The lack of variation in the writing to differentiate the different POVs, for example, made the book very unengaging and dull. It was so wordy that it ruined the reading experience for me, as well as the multiple grammatical errors, odd sentence structuring, and typos made the book feel unpolished and unedited.
Another issue is the characterisation, or lack of dynamic characters. The male characters (the guardians especially Eamon and Fírinne) feel like copy-pastes of typical MMCs from other romantasies. I was looking forward to rooting for the FMC, Elisa, but I found her very one-dimensional. The introduction with her sister was interesting, but when she meets the guardians and starts a romance with them, it became the core of her character. Also, the chemistry between the love interests was missing entirely. The intimacy scenes felt out of place and read very juvenile. It felt forced.
In my opinion, knowing the characters to their core (their backstories, who they are apart from their romances, their beliefs and dreams—things that should have been touched on by 1/4 of the book) have a significant impact on their relationships with others. But because the book barely covers who the characters are, everything else falls apart. Characters the most important aspects in a story. Weak characters often equals a weak story, no matter if the world building was great, or if the lyrical writing was immersive.
Despite all that, I still commend the author for writing the full book. The effort is there, and this world is so imaginative and creative, it's just the execution that felt weak for me. I love fantasy worlds and its premise was what hooked me in the first place. This book just wasn't for me.
Let me start off by saying this book had the potential to be a truly beautiful epic fantasy-romance. The bones of world is there, and the writing is both lyrical and poetic. This author writes in a way that is very immersive and could be enjoyable for some people.
Unfortunately, that wasn't the case for me.
One of the biggest weaknesses in this book is the structure. The narration often switches from third person to first person in one chapter which disrupts the overall flow. The same event also gets narrated multiple times because of the switching (from multiple character POVs) which I found to be very repetitive. I can see the vision of the multiple POVs (to show each character's thoughts and feelings of that same event I suppose), but was executed very poorly.
The narration felt bland and impersonal because of its weak narrative voice. The lack of variation in the writing to differentiate the different POVs, for example, made the book very unengaging and dull. It was so wordy that it ruined the reading experience for me, as well as the multiple grammatical errors, odd sentence structuring, and typos made the book feel unpolished and unedited.
Another issue is the characterisation, or lack of dynamic characters. The male characters (the guardians especially Eamon and Fírinne) feel like copy-pastes of typical MMCs from other romantasies. I was looking forward to rooting for the FMC, Elisa, but I found her very one-dimensional. The introduction with her sister was interesting, but when she meets the guardians and starts a romance with them, it became the core of her character. Also, the chemistry between the love interests was missing entirely. The intimacy scenes felt out of place and read very juvenile. It felt forced.
In my opinion, knowing the characters to their core (their backstories, who they are apart from their romances, their beliefs and dreams—things that should have been touched on by 1/4 of the book) have a significant impact on their relationships with others. But because the book barely covers who the characters are, everything else falls apart. Characters the most important aspects in a story. Weak characters often equals a weak story, no matter if the world building was great, or if the lyrical writing was immersive.
Despite all that, I still commend the author for writing the full book. The effort is there, and this world is so imaginative and creative, it's just the execution that felt weak for me. I love fantasy worlds and its premise was what hooked me in the first place. This book just wasn't for me.
May 19, 2025
Book Review: Portals of Realms: Eternal Earth by Ailed de la Torre
This epic fantasy transports the reader into a vivid and emotionalistic realm where elemental guardians, ancient magicks, and the eternal clash between light and darkness may walk free. Ailed de la Torre weaves its mythic approach that operates within the sacred balance of nature, heavy responsibility, and the deep yearning for companionship.
The book opens into splendid world-building: celestial gods created Carrick's Hollow, a realm imbued with magic, history, and profound beauty. As dark tides started rolling in with betrayal, jealousy, and fury of Kieran, the real struggle of order versus chaos unfolds. At the center of the novel are the Guardians—elemental beings set to guard the balance of this magical world. Their interactions, romances, and inner conflicts bring a human dimension of emotional depth to this epic fantasy.
Torre's prose is lyrical and immersive, with a poetic description comingled with intense emotional stakes. Filled with lore and dynamic interactions alongside themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery, the novel can enchant any aficionado of high fantasy and narrative-driven literary properties.
Infinitely enchanting and emotionally compelling, "Eternal Earth" wins with its masterful world-building and wonderfully complex emotional journeys of its characters. A must-read for anyone who enjoys magic dotted with meaning.
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This epic fantasy transports the reader into a vivid and emotionalistic realm where elemental guardians, ancient magicks, and the eternal clash between light and darkness may walk free. Ailed de la Torre weaves its mythic approach that operates within the sacred balance of nature, heavy responsibility, and the deep yearning for companionship.
The book opens into splendid world-building: celestial gods created Carrick's Hollow, a realm imbued with magic, history, and profound beauty. As dark tides started rolling in with betrayal, jealousy, and fury of Kieran, the real struggle of order versus chaos unfolds. At the center of the novel are the Guardians—elemental beings set to guard the balance of this magical world. Their interactions, romances, and inner conflicts bring a human dimension of emotional depth to this epic fantasy.
Torre's prose is lyrical and immersive, with a poetic description comingled with intense emotional stakes. Filled with lore and dynamic interactions alongside themes of love, sacrifice, and self-discovery, the novel can enchant any aficionado of high fantasy and narrative-driven literary properties.
Infinitely enchanting and emotionally compelling, "Eternal Earth" wins with its masterful world-building and wonderfully complex emotional journeys of its characters. A must-read for anyone who enjoys magic dotted with meaning.
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[ bookstagrams , romantasy books , enemies to lovers , book review , book blogger , reading challenge , book recommendations , book discussion , literary , fiction , fantasy novels , cover reveal , book cover design , book photography , page-turner , must-read books , reading list
, book haul , book club , book quotes , new releases 2025 , indie author , self publishing , audiobook , diverse books , reading community ]
August 25, 2025
Thank you to The Berry Agency for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. I found it very difficult to stay focused while reading, and several elements pulled me out of the story.
One of the biggest issues was the structure. The narration frequently shifts between first and third person, sometimes within the same chapter, which disrupted the flow. Events are often retold from different character perspectives, but instead of adding depth, this came across as repetitive. I could see the intention behind using multiple POVs to explore each character’s thoughts, but the execution didn’t work.
The narrative voice also felt flat and lacked variation between perspectives, making it hard to distinguish one character from another. Combined with wordiness, awkward sentence structures, grammatical errors, and typos, the prose often felt unpolished and unedited.
Characterisation was another weak point for me. The male guardians, especially Eamon and Firinne, felt like familiar archetypes rather than unique, compelling characters. Elisa, the female lead, started off promising, but once the romance began, her personality seemed to revolve almost entirely around it. The chemistry between love interests was underwhelming, and the intimacy scenes felt forced and out of place. Without strong character development—their backstories, motivations, beliefs, and dreams—the relationships never had the impact they could have had. For me, flat characters ultimately weakened the whole story.
That said, I do want to acknowledge the creativity behind this book. The world itself is imaginative, and the premise was what drew me in originally. While the execution fell short for me, I respect the author’s effort in creating such a detailed fantasy setting.
In the end, The Portal of Realms just wasn’t a good fit for me as a reader.
Unfortunately, this book just wasn’t for me. I found it very difficult to stay focused while reading, and several elements pulled me out of the story.
One of the biggest issues was the structure. The narration frequently shifts between first and third person, sometimes within the same chapter, which disrupted the flow. Events are often retold from different character perspectives, but instead of adding depth, this came across as repetitive. I could see the intention behind using multiple POVs to explore each character’s thoughts, but the execution didn’t work.
The narrative voice also felt flat and lacked variation between perspectives, making it hard to distinguish one character from another. Combined with wordiness, awkward sentence structures, grammatical errors, and typos, the prose often felt unpolished and unedited.
Characterisation was another weak point for me. The male guardians, especially Eamon and Firinne, felt like familiar archetypes rather than unique, compelling characters. Elisa, the female lead, started off promising, but once the romance began, her personality seemed to revolve almost entirely around it. The chemistry between love interests was underwhelming, and the intimacy scenes felt forced and out of place. Without strong character development—their backstories, motivations, beliefs, and dreams—the relationships never had the impact they could have had. For me, flat characters ultimately weakened the whole story.
That said, I do want to acknowledge the creativity behind this book. The world itself is imaginative, and the premise was what drew me in originally. While the execution fell short for me, I respect the author’s effort in creating such a detailed fantasy setting.
In the end, The Portal of Realms just wasn’t a good fit for me as a reader.
May 28, 2025
I recently finished reading Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth by Ailed De la Torre, and I have to say, it’s a beautiful fantasy story. From the very first chapter, when the gods came together to create a peaceful world for both magical creatures and humans, I was pulled into their world. The idea of building a new place full of magic, kindness, and hope really touched me. It felt like something we all wish for — a place where everyone belongs.
What I liked most about this book is how it’s not just about magic and battles. It’s also about the people inside the story. The guardians who are supposed to protect this world aren’t perfect. They start to wonder about their own lives and what they truly want. I could connect with that feeling because sometimes we also question our own purpose and choices. Elisa’s character was very relatable too. She’s brave, curious, and trying to find her place, just like many of us in real life.
The story has a little bit of everything — magic, friendship, love, heartbreak, and adventure. The different magical creatures like elves, dragons, selkies, and vampires made the story even more fun to read. The world in this book is so well described that I felt like I was walking through those forests and watching the glowing portals open myself. It’s a simple story about big emotions and how people can grow and change.
I would definitely recommend Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth to anyone who enjoys fantasy stories with heart. It’s not too difficult to read, and it makes you feel connected to the characters. If you like stories about magical lands, brave heroes, and finding yourself, you should give this book a try. It left me with a warm feeling and made me think about my own dreams too.
What I liked most about this book is how it’s not just about magic and battles. It’s also about the people inside the story. The guardians who are supposed to protect this world aren’t perfect. They start to wonder about their own lives and what they truly want. I could connect with that feeling because sometimes we also question our own purpose and choices. Elisa’s character was very relatable too. She’s brave, curious, and trying to find her place, just like many of us in real life.
The story has a little bit of everything — magic, friendship, love, heartbreak, and adventure. The different magical creatures like elves, dragons, selkies, and vampires made the story even more fun to read. The world in this book is so well described that I felt like I was walking through those forests and watching the glowing portals open myself. It’s a simple story about big emotions and how people can grow and change.
I would definitely recommend Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth to anyone who enjoys fantasy stories with heart. It’s not too difficult to read, and it makes you feel connected to the characters. If you like stories about magical lands, brave heroes, and finding yourself, you should give this book a try. It left me with a warm feeling and made me think about my own dreams too.
September 11, 2025
The book consists of an epic fantasy world which have love, betrayal , timeless magic and a mystical realm created by Gods and guarded by elemental beings, it has a story of gods and guardians but also of one woman fight to reclaim her life and rediscover her love.
The story of the book cheerful , emotional, and pessimistic it's every page reminds that the light always returns and no matter how deep the shadows.
It reminds that the beginnings and endings are the one and that every soul carries echoes of a greater truth, love and resilience are the most powerful magic of all.
Elisa who is also a central heroine of this story has a kind nature and she is vulnerable but have tough attitude, her aim is to reclaim her strength and identity, her journey becomes the heart of the story and which can touch your heart as she discovers her hidden strengths.
It's not just a fantasy book it show the mirror of real struggles and it also celebrates women power of recovering from any circumstances, it has a story that conveys that the stories themselves are magical which carries memory, and have healing and eternal connection.
The story in the book explore a mystical world and the consequences of choices shaped by desire and power.
Elisa journey from vulnerability to empowerment reflects what it means to reclaim your voice after being silenced and Elena modern storyline reminds that the stories themselves can be healing and the memory and love are eternal forces shaping who we are.
The story of the book cheerful , emotional, and pessimistic it's every page reminds that the light always returns and no matter how deep the shadows.
It reminds that the beginnings and endings are the one and that every soul carries echoes of a greater truth, love and resilience are the most powerful magic of all.
Elisa who is also a central heroine of this story has a kind nature and she is vulnerable but have tough attitude, her aim is to reclaim her strength and identity, her journey becomes the heart of the story and which can touch your heart as she discovers her hidden strengths.
It's not just a fantasy book it show the mirror of real struggles and it also celebrates women power of recovering from any circumstances, it has a story that conveys that the stories themselves are magical which carries memory, and have healing and eternal connection.
The story in the book explore a mystical world and the consequences of choices shaped by desire and power.
Elisa journey from vulnerability to empowerment reflects what it means to reclaim your voice after being silenced and Elena modern storyline reminds that the stories themselves can be healing and the memory and love are eternal forces shaping who we are.
September 12, 2025
Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth is an exciting and enticing fantasy that intertwines myth, romance, and elemental magic through an expansive narrative of guardianship and love. Set in the bewitching lands of Carrick’s Hollow, the novel introduces audiences to Fírinne, the Guardian of the Flames, Eamon, the Guardian of Earth, and finally Elisa, who steps from the human realm into the realm of magic, to guide these characters as their friends, lovers, and enemies collide and entwine through journeys of passion, betrayal, and sacrifice. In this tale, the audience will experience everything from large-scale battles to the smallest of intimate moments in the lives of Fírinne, Eamon, and Elisa.
The novel explores the precarious balance of everything that is created, and the desire to destroy; the pull of obligation and desire, and the power of love over darkness and chaos. Elisa's relationships with Fírinne and Eamon expose the complexity of trust and loyalty, and Étáin and Kieran represent the seductive antagonists of jealousy and darkness.
This novel excels at establishing a detailed mythology, and at times the overarching conflicts get swallowed by the thrust into the romance. Nonetheless, the lush imagery and emotional resonance in the characters' journeys are enough to satisfy readers seeking a story filled with both wonder and intimacy.
Ultimately, Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth, is colorful and eventful narrative about love, magic, and memory, and all that binds us together as people.
The novel explores the precarious balance of everything that is created, and the desire to destroy; the pull of obligation and desire, and the power of love over darkness and chaos. Elisa's relationships with Fírinne and Eamon expose the complexity of trust and loyalty, and Étáin and Kieran represent the seductive antagonists of jealousy and darkness.
This novel excels at establishing a detailed mythology, and at times the overarching conflicts get swallowed by the thrust into the romance. Nonetheless, the lush imagery and emotional resonance in the characters' journeys are enough to satisfy readers seeking a story filled with both wonder and intimacy.
Ultimately, Portal of Realms: Eternal Earth, is colorful and eventful narrative about love, magic, and memory, and all that binds us together as people.
September 12, 2025
A rich fantasy world with a pinch of romance and a dab of magic and a whole lot of adventure story.
The story starts with the creation of a realm for humans. The ancient magical gods like Cerridwen ( Moon ) , Soloran (Sun) , Liban ( Sea) , Danu ( Earth ) and Borrum (Wind) come together and design a world called Carrick’s Hollow. They desire a harmonious world for mortals and magical beings alike. There are guardians and portals in this world. All goes well in this wonderland till an angry god sets his eyes on the place and vows to destroy it.
The world building in the story is detailed and captivating. From the gods to the magical brings to the mortals, all have vivid qualities and impressive character arcs. The variety of powers and magic associated with the world makes it more engaging for the readers.
Along with that, the personal and internal struggles of the characters with an added romance adds to the intrigue of the story. Though not a fan of the explicit scenes, the romantic angle weaves seamlessly with the world. The additional aspect of travelling through realms and caught in the midst of a supernatural tug keeps the reader hooked to the story.
The story has emotions, loss, love, hatred etc, magical beings derived from Gaelic-Irish lore and an exquisite world with illustrations and maps which make the reading experience alluring. Overall, an interesting read for the fans of fantasy who like a story of battle between good and evil and a flavour of romance.
The story starts with the creation of a realm for humans. The ancient magical gods like Cerridwen ( Moon ) , Soloran (Sun) , Liban ( Sea) , Danu ( Earth ) and Borrum (Wind) come together and design a world called Carrick’s Hollow. They desire a harmonious world for mortals and magical beings alike. There are guardians and portals in this world. All goes well in this wonderland till an angry god sets his eyes on the place and vows to destroy it.
The world building in the story is detailed and captivating. From the gods to the magical brings to the mortals, all have vivid qualities and impressive character arcs. The variety of powers and magic associated with the world makes it more engaging for the readers.
Along with that, the personal and internal struggles of the characters with an added romance adds to the intrigue of the story. Though not a fan of the explicit scenes, the romantic angle weaves seamlessly with the world. The additional aspect of travelling through realms and caught in the midst of a supernatural tug keeps the reader hooked to the story.
The story has emotions, loss, love, hatred etc, magical beings derived from Gaelic-Irish lore and an exquisite world with illustrations and maps which make the reading experience alluring. Overall, an interesting read for the fans of fantasy who like a story of battle between good and evil and a flavour of romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews