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The Fate of Ashes #2
A Throne of Frost and Flame
With the successful removal of Praiton forces from one of the most powerful kingdoms in the realm, the tide of war has finally changed for the rebellion.
While the Pillar Legion attempts to strengthen its position, Deya is beginning to fully acclimate to life with her newly discovered powers and friends. Even though her budding relationship with Caelum proves to be just as problematic as it was when they first met, Deya is hopeful that she is at least finally out of reach of the nefarious empire she once called home.
But when Deya is ambushed by a band of assassins, Caelum is forced to send Deya away to the one place she can hope to be safe from Praiton's clutches.
While Deya struggles to adjust to life in a strange new kingdom, a greater threat looms, one that could destroy any newfound advantage the Pillar Legion might have. As evil encroaches on the realm, Deya, Caelum, Val, and Rayner must each face their greatest fears alone, knowing that failure could mean the loss of everything they hold dear... including each other.
While the Pillar Legion attempts to strengthen its position, Deya is beginning to fully acclimate to life with her newly discovered powers and friends. Even though her budding relationship with Caelum proves to be just as problematic as it was when they first met, Deya is hopeful that she is at least finally out of reach of the nefarious empire she once called home.
But when Deya is ambushed by a band of assassins, Caelum is forced to send Deya away to the one place she can hope to be safe from Praiton's clutches.
While Deya struggles to adjust to life in a strange new kingdom, a greater threat looms, one that could destroy any newfound advantage the Pillar Legion might have. As evil encroaches on the realm, Deya, Caelum, Val, and Rayner must each face their greatest fears alone, knowing that failure could mean the loss of everything they hold dear... including each other.
424 pages, Hardcover
Published March 14, 2025
105 people are currently reading
587 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
March 29, 2025
OMG THIS BOOK!!!!!! I LOVE LOVE LOVED IT! I was fighting through a VERY horrible book slump with a lot of things taken me from reading often as well but this book pulled me through it. I so very much connected with the characters and love them all soooo much! The PTSD rep here also hit home for me and reading about it and seeing it coped with in different ways.... it was a personally relieving experience for me. I was on the edge of my seat so many times and in tears so many others... I am so gripped by the story and 10000000000% need MORE!!! Highly recommend!
July 22, 2025
initially, my thoughts on this book weren’t very positive. i’ll admit, i did continue on to see more of val and aris because i love them, point blank. the first book in this series, it did not beat the ‘same plot-line, every-time, romantasy’ allegations because it did feel like reading recycled material. but the big but is that this book felt like its own. i could tell there was so much effort and creativity poured into this fictional world and every character. the plot did not take a step back to the romances, it was a 50/50 split, if not, leaning more towards the world-building than the romance. i’m a big fan of that.
that being said, this fantasy world isn’t my favourite. at times, it was hard to grasp, for me personally but that doesn’t take away from how well this story is playing out. i’m glad that the found family is alive and well, that luc wasn’t turned into this evil villain, and that deya had her moment to shine.
now, it’s no surprise that my favorite couple is val and aris… i’m not in shock at how much i didn’t feel much for deya’s and caelum’s relationship. they were toxic and a hard-read. i think i understand that the author wanted to keep caelum ‘broody’ and ‘morally grey’ since that seems popular in romantasy right now but he was terrible and the worst kind of those tropes. the back and forth between him and deya— him not wanting to give her public affection and her getting sick of it, and trying to get him to give her attention outside the bedroom which lead to this cat and mouse where they wanted to see who would crack and make the first move towards sex— was not cute or swoon-worthy. i was bored.
how am i supposed to root for a relationship where there’s absolutely no chemistry, so much so, i thought i was being pranked in the first book because deya and caelum were being sold as the relationship but caelum had so much more chemistry with another character. as i was reading, i was thinking surely these aren’t the two people who are supposed to end up together as, you guessed it, “mates”? he calls her weak and useless at every turn, it went from lukewarm hate on caelum’s side to having sex in a cave. and deya would give into him every single time and justify it by saying something like there was a spark of electricity every time their eyes met. by the end, yes, i did feel myself warming up to them only because caelum started to warm up himself. the negativity comes from his side and his reluctance to let anyone in.
i was very happy when i found out this was a dual POV, with val included, and that i would read more about aris and val. because i’m A SUCKER FOR THEM. that’s it.
but going back to val’s pov…. what an excellence character she is and a joy to read about. a vulnerable, badass, and strong queen. one of my favourite parts of this book was her healing journey and the quest she went on. val’s inner thoughts were some of the best parts of this books writing.
it got to a point where val’s and aris’s slow burn was physically painful to me because i wanted them to do something so bad. the pining and the looks and the fact he still touches her skin even though it burns him. i’ll cry.
”val had never been in love. but if she had to put a name to what she saw in his eyes, it may have been that.”
the BOAT SCENE!!!! THE BOAT SCENE. i was giggling, kicking my feet, yelling ‘finally’. the push and pull was so painful, when they finally threw themselves at one another i was jumping on the spot. they are so serious to me. but how dare they take my heart and stomp on it. aris, get behind me, because i understand his decision completely even if it goes against my plan to smoosh his and val’s faces together 24/7. he does not want to repeat the same mistake twice, and i get it. and all val wants to do is love him unconditionally. it’s giving right person, let’s wait for the war to calm down.
that being said, this fantasy world isn’t my favourite. at times, it was hard to grasp, for me personally but that doesn’t take away from how well this story is playing out. i’m glad that the found family is alive and well, that luc wasn’t turned into this evil villain, and that deya had her moment to shine.
now, it’s no surprise that my favorite couple is val and aris… i’m not in shock at how much i didn’t feel much for deya’s and caelum’s relationship. they were toxic and a hard-read. i think i understand that the author wanted to keep caelum ‘broody’ and ‘morally grey’ since that seems popular in romantasy right now but he was terrible and the worst kind of those tropes. the back and forth between him and deya— him not wanting to give her public affection and her getting sick of it, and trying to get him to give her attention outside the bedroom which lead to this cat and mouse where they wanted to see who would crack and make the first move towards sex— was not cute or swoon-worthy. i was bored.
how am i supposed to root for a relationship where there’s absolutely no chemistry, so much so, i thought i was being pranked in the first book because deya and caelum were being sold as the relationship but caelum had so much more chemistry with another character. as i was reading, i was thinking surely these aren’t the two people who are supposed to end up together as, you guessed it, “mates”? he calls her weak and useless at every turn, it went from lukewarm hate on caelum’s side to having sex in a cave. and deya would give into him every single time and justify it by saying something like there was a spark of electricity every time their eyes met. by the end, yes, i did feel myself warming up to them only because caelum started to warm up himself. the negativity comes from his side and his reluctance to let anyone in.
i was very happy when i found out this was a dual POV, with val included, and that i would read more about aris and val. because i’m A SUCKER FOR THEM. that’s it.
but going back to val’s pov…. what an excellence character she is and a joy to read about. a vulnerable, badass, and strong queen. one of my favourite parts of this book was her healing journey and the quest she went on. val’s inner thoughts were some of the best parts of this books writing.
it got to a point where val’s and aris’s slow burn was physically painful to me because i wanted them to do something so bad. the pining and the looks and the fact he still touches her skin even though it burns him. i’ll cry.
”val had never been in love. but if she had to put a name to what she saw in his eyes, it may have been that.”
the BOAT SCENE!!!! THE BOAT SCENE. i was giggling, kicking my feet, yelling ‘finally’. the push and pull was so painful, when they finally threw themselves at one another i was jumping on the spot. they are so serious to me. but how dare they take my heart and stomp on it. aris, get behind me, because i understand his decision completely even if it goes against my plan to smoosh his and val’s faces together 24/7. he does not want to repeat the same mistake twice, and i get it. and all val wants to do is love him unconditionally. it’s giving right person, let’s wait for the war to calm down.
February 20, 2025
✨A Throne of Frost and Flame✨
Victoria does it again! Man, her men are handsome, merciless, and so stubborn! And the FMCs are strong, multidimensional, and so fierce for those they love. This sequel to A Crown of Star and Ash was so good!
In this second installment by Victoria, we begin right where we left off at the end of book one. And while book one was dark and tortured and angsty, this one has its own set of difficulties! And the tension and slow burn is THERE. 🤌🤌 Back with our found family, we follow the POVs of Deya, Val, and Caelum- each with their own trials and each battling a darkness alone. Grief, acceptance, and support are very large themes in this book and it was so beautiful. Our romance between Caelum and Deya is tumultuous and fragile. Between Val and Aris is tense and pining. These men like to hide their emotions but when the spice starts spicing. Yessss.
But romance is far from the only thing going on. No, we have new territories, plot twists, betrayals, court politics, dark creatures, evil assassins, and war. So much character growth is displayed. So much action and new questions towards the prophecies. I had to force myself to put this down and I sought every opportunity to pick it up back, which is why I finished it in a day. 😅
Tropes you may find in ATOFAF are friends to lovers to ??, fated mates, 🔥 the world for her, touch her and 💀, feminine rage, dragons, elemental magic, one cabin, medium spice, slow burn, chosen family, betrayals, and epic battles. Book one and Val’s novella are out now!
It has been such a joy to be an arc reader for all of Victoria’s books and I can’t wait to continue. Thank you!
Victoria does it again! Man, her men are handsome, merciless, and so stubborn! And the FMCs are strong, multidimensional, and so fierce for those they love. This sequel to A Crown of Star and Ash was so good!
In this second installment by Victoria, we begin right where we left off at the end of book one. And while book one was dark and tortured and angsty, this one has its own set of difficulties! And the tension and slow burn is THERE. 🤌🤌 Back with our found family, we follow the POVs of Deya, Val, and Caelum- each with their own trials and each battling a darkness alone. Grief, acceptance, and support are very large themes in this book and it was so beautiful. Our romance between Caelum and Deya is tumultuous and fragile. Between Val and Aris is tense and pining. These men like to hide their emotions but when the spice starts spicing. Yessss.
But romance is far from the only thing going on. No, we have new territories, plot twists, betrayals, court politics, dark creatures, evil assassins, and war. So much character growth is displayed. So much action and new questions towards the prophecies. I had to force myself to put this down and I sought every opportunity to pick it up back, which is why I finished it in a day. 😅
Tropes you may find in ATOFAF are friends to lovers to ??, fated mates, 🔥 the world for her, touch her and 💀, feminine rage, dragons, elemental magic, one cabin, medium spice, slow burn, chosen family, betrayals, and epic battles. Book one and Val’s novella are out now!
It has been such a joy to be an arc reader for all of Victoria’s books and I can’t wait to continue. Thank you!
March 11, 2025
Wow. Where do I even begin?! This book?!!
Victoria has a way with writing deep, complex characters w/ amazing thorough backstories, filled with so much emotional turmoil. Grief when the characters are grieving, rage when the characters are mad, the guilt, the angst, the fear, I felt ALL of the emotions on this emotional rollercoaster and had no intention of getting off. The tension? MY GODS the tension, it made me SO frustrated yet I was so hooked on every line, every interaction, that when things finally came to fruition it was just *chefs kiss*
The worldbuilding is so rich and in depth, with the most captivating storyline! This is honestly what I’ve truly come to expect ( or at least what I really want to read ) from a well thought out fantasy universe with high stakes, political unrest, and character development.
Ill be thinking about that cliffhanger for DAYS! Absolutely cannot wait for the next book!!
Victoria has a way with writing deep, complex characters w/ amazing thorough backstories, filled with so much emotional turmoil. Grief when the characters are grieving, rage when the characters are mad, the guilt, the angst, the fear, I felt ALL of the emotions on this emotional rollercoaster and had no intention of getting off. The tension? MY GODS the tension, it made me SO frustrated yet I was so hooked on every line, every interaction, that when things finally came to fruition it was just *chefs kiss*
The worldbuilding is so rich and in depth, with the most captivating storyline! This is honestly what I’ve truly come to expect ( or at least what I really want to read ) from a well thought out fantasy universe with high stakes, political unrest, and character development.
Ill be thinking about that cliffhanger for DAYS! Absolutely cannot wait for the next book!!
March 14, 2025
I came for Caelum. Touch her and die Caelum. She's mine Caelum. Never again Caelum.
Caelum is lush and let's be honest, his strife is keeping me alive... but when I tell you I stayed for Val, only one bed, firebringer Val. I haven't had a girl crush this hard in ages and I could read for literal hours, no...days, about Val absolutely dominating. It's everything.
Fantasy, magic, dragons, bonds, this story had it all and I'm heartbroken it's over to be honest.
Caelum is lush and let's be honest, his strife is keeping me alive... but when I tell you I stayed for Val, only one bed, firebringer Val. I haven't had a girl crush this hard in ages and I could read for literal hours, no...days, about Val absolutely dominating. It's everything.
Fantasy, magic, dragons, bonds, this story had it all and I'm heartbroken it's over to be honest.
March 3, 2025
Thank you to the author for the ARC!💙
My favourite thing about this series is definitely the world-building, and this sequel just continued to build on that. Especially as we get transported into a new environment, Bridah, following the FMC, Deya, I absolutely loved learning about it and also how it does/will contribute to the war in the lands. I LOVE that we’re getting dragons 🐉 The magic system is fun to explore and easy to follow along as well!
For me, this book was a little harder to get into. It felt a bit slow for the majority and definitely seems like a filler book, but the last 120ish pages? INTENSE. INSANELY INTENSE.
The characters in this book felt like they were just going in circles for a majority of it until near the end, so it was a little frustrating to read. Especially the MMC’s because they’re just being annoyingly stubborn about love.
Overall, didn’t mind this book! This could have been “right book, wrong time” kind of thing for me. Wish there was a bit more action besides at the end, but definitely can’t wait to see what will happen next! 💫
My favourite thing about this series is definitely the world-building, and this sequel just continued to build on that. Especially as we get transported into a new environment, Bridah, following the FMC, Deya, I absolutely loved learning about it and also how it does/will contribute to the war in the lands. I LOVE that we’re getting dragons 🐉 The magic system is fun to explore and easy to follow along as well!
For me, this book was a little harder to get into. It felt a bit slow for the majority and definitely seems like a filler book, but the last 120ish pages? INTENSE. INSANELY INTENSE.
The characters in this book felt like they were just going in circles for a majority of it until near the end, so it was a little frustrating to read. Especially the MMC’s because they’re just being annoyingly stubborn about love.
Overall, didn’t mind this book! This could have been “right book, wrong time” kind of thing for me. Wish there was a bit more action besides at the end, but definitely can’t wait to see what will happen next! 💫
March 6, 2025
This book took everything in the previous books and turned it up a notch. The world was expanded, the characters grew, and just everything was heightened. I was on the edge of my seat for the last 100 or so pages just dying to know what was going to happen!
And the ending was not something I saw coming at all! Having said that, there were a few things I figured out beforehand that make me smile with glee when it turned out I was right! And the specifics of how these things happened was so much better than I could have imagined. I cannot wait for book 3! And maybe a novella about Rayner….
And the ending was not something I saw coming at all! Having said that, there were a few things I figured out beforehand that make me smile with glee when it turned out I was right! And the specifics of how these things happened was so much better than I could have imagined. I cannot wait for book 3! And maybe a novella about Rayner….
March 1, 2025
Loved getting to go back into this world! Caelum and Deya are hiding their relationship to try and present a stronger front for the war. As silly as it seems, it's causing a lot of heartache for them both.
Val has her own issues trying to figure out Aris' motives, and they will all be faced with impossible choices and so many secrets. I loved the way this one approached Deya's magic and how everything for her was working around that and the fear of what she's become.
Val has her own issues trying to figure out Aris' motives, and they will all be faced with impossible choices and so many secrets. I loved the way this one approached Deya's magic and how everything for her was working around that and the fear of what she's become.
June 9, 2025
Edit review after reading: There was, in fact, no princess treatment for my girl Deya, but at least he ate her out good, so we take them in small wins.
Pre read: Deya better STAND UP if Caelum doesn't give her the princess treatment she deserves.
Pre read: Deya better STAND UP if Caelum doesn't give her the princess treatment she deserves.
March 6, 2025
The Fate of Ashes Book Two
𝐹𝒶𝓃𝓉𝒶𝓈𝓎 𝑅𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝐹𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝑀𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓈
𝒮𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝐵𝓊𝓇𝓃
𝒟𝓇𝒶𝑔𝑜𝓃𝓈
𝒲𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒦𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒹𝑜𝓂𝓈
𝒫𝑜𝓈𝓈𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
This book focuses on the aftermath of the events of the first book. Deya tries to understand her powers while Caelum struggles with merging his duty and his developing relationship with Deya. This book has a lot more world building and dives into the politics between kingdoms.
I find this fantasy series stands out with its focus on character development and more emotional storylines. I enjoy that this series dives into more than just one couple and creates a great found family storyline. Caelum specifically goes through a lot of character development and tries to learn that love is not a weakness. Although he is stubborn for a good portion of the book he has a very rewarding moment of redemption. We get to see his very possessive and jealous side. I absolutely loved how much more prominent Val’s story was in this book. Her journey is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. I highly suggest reading the novella as it has a lot of backstory for Val before book two since it makes things in this book more impactful. The slow burn with her and Aris was chef’s kiss. Also we get a very iconic territorial Aris moment towards the end. Add in some dragons, intense battles, and mystery and Victoria gives us a great sequel. Can’t wait for the story to continue.
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“There will be nothing left of this world if somebody hurts you. I will make sure of it.”
“The pain of our experiences strengthens our bodies . . . our souls.”
“It was not just hunger and lust . . . it was something else. Something indescribable. Like seeing the moon beside the sun, like touching a star with the tip of a finger . . . like swallowing fire and trusting it would not burn.”
𝐹𝒶𝓃𝓉𝒶𝓈𝓎 𝑅𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒
𝐹𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝑀𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓈
𝒮𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝐵𝓊𝓇𝓃
𝒟𝓇𝒶𝑔𝑜𝓃𝓈
𝒲𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒦𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒹𝑜𝓂𝓈
𝒫𝑜𝓈𝓈𝑒𝓈𝓈𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑀𝑀𝒞
This book focuses on the aftermath of the events of the first book. Deya tries to understand her powers while Caelum struggles with merging his duty and his developing relationship with Deya. This book has a lot more world building and dives into the politics between kingdoms.
I find this fantasy series stands out with its focus on character development and more emotional storylines. I enjoy that this series dives into more than just one couple and creates a great found family storyline. Caelum specifically goes through a lot of character development and tries to learn that love is not a weakness. Although he is stubborn for a good portion of the book he has a very rewarding moment of redemption. We get to see his very possessive and jealous side. I absolutely loved how much more prominent Val’s story was in this book. Her journey is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. I highly suggest reading the novella as it has a lot of backstory for Val before book two since it makes things in this book more impactful. The slow burn with her and Aris was chef’s kiss. Also we get a very iconic territorial Aris moment towards the end. Add in some dragons, intense battles, and mystery and Victoria gives us a great sequel. Can’t wait for the story to continue.
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“There will be nothing left of this world if somebody hurts you. I will make sure of it.”
“The pain of our experiences strengthens our bodies . . . our souls.”
“It was not just hunger and lust . . . it was something else. Something indescribable. Like seeing the moon beside the sun, like touching a star with the tip of a finger . . . like swallowing fire and trusting it would not burn.”
March 14, 2025
Wow.. I feel like this book was even better than first. So grateful for this ARC. Thank you Victoria!
So this book starts with Deya noticing some changes with her, Val is withdrawn and Aris and Caelum are trying to keep Nodaria safe as well deal with Legion setbacks. So Caleum sends Deya away for her safety. During this she sets some boundaries for their relationship, or lack thereof. Val is trying to work through her grief and trauma. There is a LOT that happens.
Let me start by saying at some points I had a really hard time with Caleum. And Aris too. Caelum can be toxic but Deya knows it. He never really had love as an adult and it shows. I would say his character development this book was the strongest. At the end of the book he is a different person and the growth was really awesome to see. I loved seeing the other world and his family, and getting to know a different place with different people. However, when he finally says "it" back I think I will burst. He really needs to in the book.
Deya to me was almost like in book 1, which she even states in the book. But I think both her and Caleum are exploring the new dynamic of their relationship and I am all for it. There was only like 1 spicy scene with them which was a bummer but glad I got it. I look forward to seeing her come into her own more with her magic, maybe once she (or they) figure it out. I like bad a$$ Deya and she still is but let fear control her a lot this book. Understandably of course.
Val's character journey in this book was heartbreaking. The grief, the pain, the trauma was so much. Your heart hurt for her. But then with Aris, at the end, it was truly heartbreaking. I started to tear up. I am all in for Val and Aris and it broke my heart. But one thing that truly stood out to me was healing through forgiveness. Not just of others but of yourself too.
Also I loved the dragons and looking forward to more of that.
There was so much happening in this book. So many things happening at different places and times. At first I was little confused cause there were not specific chapters that were in different POVs. For example Chapter 23 Deya...it was just a change and you were somewhere with someone else. This is written not in first person POV which I am used to, but didn't mind this at all. It actually flowed well.
This book had all the things, fantasy, magic, dragons, trauma and grief, spice, mates, prophecies, fear, love, violence, heartbreak and so much more. I cannot wait till book 3. This was so good.
So this book starts with Deya noticing some changes with her, Val is withdrawn and Aris and Caelum are trying to keep Nodaria safe as well deal with Legion setbacks. So Caleum sends Deya away for her safety. During this she sets some boundaries for their relationship, or lack thereof. Val is trying to work through her grief and trauma. There is a LOT that happens.
Let me start by saying at some points I had a really hard time with Caleum. And Aris too. Caelum can be toxic but Deya knows it. He never really had love as an adult and it shows. I would say his character development this book was the strongest. At the end of the book he is a different person and the growth was really awesome to see. I loved seeing the other world and his family, and getting to know a different place with different people. However, when he finally says "it" back I think I will burst. He really needs to in the book.
Deya to me was almost like in book 1, which she even states in the book. But I think both her and Caleum are exploring the new dynamic of their relationship and I am all for it. There was only like 1 spicy scene with them which was a bummer but glad I got it. I look forward to seeing her come into her own more with her magic, maybe once she (or they) figure it out. I like bad a$$ Deya and she still is but let fear control her a lot this book. Understandably of course.
Val's character journey in this book was heartbreaking. The grief, the pain, the trauma was so much. Your heart hurt for her. But then with Aris, at the end, it was truly heartbreaking. I started to tear up. I am all in for Val and Aris and it broke my heart. But one thing that truly stood out to me was healing through forgiveness. Not just of others but of yourself too.
Also I loved the dragons and looking forward to more of that.
There was so much happening in this book. So many things happening at different places and times. At first I was little confused cause there were not specific chapters that were in different POVs. For example Chapter 23 Deya...it was just a change and you were somewhere with someone else. This is written not in first person POV which I am used to, but didn't mind this at all. It actually flowed well.
This book had all the things, fantasy, magic, dragons, trauma and grief, spice, mates, prophecies, fear, love, violence, heartbreak and so much more. I cannot wait till book 3. This was so good.
March 1, 2025
ATOFAF is the second book in the Fate of Ashes series. If you haven’t not read A Crown of Star and Ash yet, I beg of you to read it AND the novella, The Lady of Fire and Light. I absolutely loveeeee the first book and the second I LOVE EVEN MORE. Victoria really found the writing groove for this one. It’s jam packed with all of the witty banter and found family from book one but with the added bonus of epic battles and flawless world building. We see MUCH more of the world and other cultures in this one.
While the first has a lot of forced proximity we’re go to the other side of this in book two. Which I enjoyed because I feel all of the characters had personal internal battles they had to work through. We see a heavy dose of grief and learning to accept feelings throughout the whole book.
It boasts a three person POV - Deya & Caelum (which is what we see in book one) and Val (who the novella revolves around). I will absolutely hear no crap about Caelum and Deya. I will not stand for it. Those two both went through SO MUCH. Their story is full of drama and angst but he will burn the world for her. Caelum grew so much. His character development was too tier. (Caelum stan till I 💀 even when he’s being snarky)
But the Val POV is everything, EVERYTHING. She has the most heartbreaking story but she rose up in this book. I lost count of how many times I sobbed through her POV. But the 🌶️? FINALLY GIRL. The brothers?? FINALLY GIRL.
I’m always sad when I finish such a good book. But I was shooooooooook, shocked, screaming and crying at the end of this one. This series will forever stay in my top five 🤍🤍
While the first has a lot of forced proximity we’re go to the other side of this in book two. Which I enjoyed because I feel all of the characters had personal internal battles they had to work through. We see a heavy dose of grief and learning to accept feelings throughout the whole book.
It boasts a three person POV - Deya & Caelum (which is what we see in book one) and Val (who the novella revolves around). I will absolutely hear no crap about Caelum and Deya. I will not stand for it. Those two both went through SO MUCH. Their story is full of drama and angst but he will burn the world for her. Caelum grew so much. His character development was too tier. (Caelum stan till I 💀 even when he’s being snarky)
But the Val POV is everything, EVERYTHING. She has the most heartbreaking story but she rose up in this book. I lost count of how many times I sobbed through her POV. But the 🌶️? FINALLY GIRL. The brothers?? FINALLY GIRL.
I’m always sad when I finish such a good book. But I was shooooooooook, shocked, screaming and crying at the end of this one. This series will forever stay in my top five 🤍🤍
March 12, 2025
A Throne of Frost & Flame
By Victoria K. Taylor
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, thank you to the author for providing me with an arc of this book!
Another 5 star read. I loved every moment of this story. The world building is utterly seamless, it’s incredible, the characters immediately make you fall in love with them, the found family feel is absolutely unmatched. We dive straight back into where we left off in book 1 and as in book 1 it was all action from the get go. I never found myself bored or wanting more, I was sucked into the world within and absolutely battered with plot and story. It was superb. I cannot praise this series enough, I’m utterly desperate to know what happens next and I’m absolutely feral for Aris! (I love Caelum too but he’s a huge grump haha) I have soooo many questions that I need answers too but I honestly cannot recommend this series enough. It’s fantastic.
“We have a warrior’s heart, me and you. We do not love, because all we know is how to fight. Love is another weakness, another thing to fear losing. And we do not have time for such liabilities.”
“You are mine,” he snarled, frost crackling, cold wind blowing through the room. “You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“You blasted harpy.”
“You heartless prick.”
By Victoria K. Taylor
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First of all, thank you to the author for providing me with an arc of this book!
Another 5 star read. I loved every moment of this story. The world building is utterly seamless, it’s incredible, the characters immediately make you fall in love with them, the found family feel is absolutely unmatched. We dive straight back into where we left off in book 1 and as in book 1 it was all action from the get go. I never found myself bored or wanting more, I was sucked into the world within and absolutely battered with plot and story. It was superb. I cannot praise this series enough, I’m utterly desperate to know what happens next and I’m absolutely feral for Aris! (I love Caelum too but he’s a huge grump haha) I have soooo many questions that I need answers too but I honestly cannot recommend this series enough. It’s fantastic.
“We have a warrior’s heart, me and you. We do not love, because all we know is how to fight. Love is another weakness, another thing to fear losing. And we do not have time for such liabilities.”
“You are mine,” he snarled, frost crackling, cold wind blowing through the room. “You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“You blasted harpy.”
“You heartless prick.”
March 14, 2025
This series has easily become one of my favorites. Victoria K. Taylor does an incredible job placing you right into the world with the characters. The yarning and tension, forbidden love, fated mates, forced proximity, found family, and YES, a one bed trope is absolutely nail biting. As Deya was navigating her new life and powers, she was thrusted from the life she was acclimating to into a whole new Kingdom. Her strength and powers are tested as she delves into the secrets of the past. All the while, trying to navigate her emotions for our MMC, who is quite morally grey. The book has such a unique magic system and a plot that leavings you constantly wanting more. It was so hard to put this book down.
February 24, 2025
I loved the action packed split POV with Val and her story especially with this book. This book was unpredictable in the best way possible. I love that we learn more about Caelum and his backstory, and about the origins of him and his magic. We also jump into both the celestial and frost courts and see how both are run, and at what lengths they go to protect their realms. The only thing I disliked was the amount of times Caelum refused to acknowledge the mate bond, that made me mad for Deya lol. Overall, great book and can’t wait for the next!
February 24, 2025
Oh, what an amazing book this was. Starts off exactly where we left it on book 1. Watching each on them grow in their own way but at the same time together to safe what they love. Watching Caelum realize that having the love he has for Deya does not make him weak, it sure made him stronger. Deya's growth and becoming more powerful was a site to see. Val was also a character who did what she needed to do to save those she loved. I am absolutely in love with this series♡
July 22, 2025
The first book in the series I absolutely loved. However, this and the Novella, were not my favorites. The author puts a note that you need to read the novella before reading on in the series. I DNF'd the novella halfway through and I was absolutely fine without it.
During this book, I was extremely bored. The story DRAGGED, and I lost interest at the middle point but pushed forward hoping it would draw me back in. It did not.
During this book, I was extremely bored. The story DRAGGED, and I lost interest at the middle point but pushed forward hoping it would draw me back in. It did not.
October 20, 2025
3.7 stars!
I loved the first book! It’s clear how much heart and thought went into the story, and as a reader I just feel proud of the writer and grateful to be able to read and experience it. I'm so so excited to continue reading!
Loved book 1.5 too! <3
That being said, even though I enjoyed this second book as well, I did struggle a bit more with it. The heavy focus on trauma, about 30-60% of the book, made it emotionally quite intense (understandably so), and the inner dialogue of some characters became a bit repetitive. I found myself wishing for more moments of some growth, training, or even a few lighter scenes to break things up.
Other than that there were once again some very exciting things happening!
Can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
I loved the first book! It’s clear how much heart and thought went into the story, and as a reader I just feel proud of the writer and grateful to be able to read and experience it. I'm so so excited to continue reading!
Loved book 1.5 too! <3
That being said, even though I enjoyed this second book as well, I did struggle a bit more with it. The heavy focus on trauma, about 30-60% of the book, made it emotionally quite intense (understandably so), and the inner dialogue of some characters became a bit repetitive. I found myself wishing for more moments of some growth, training, or even a few lighter scenes to break things up.
Other than that there were once again some very exciting things happening!
Can’t wait to see where the story goes next!
March 21, 2025
All of the people not admitting their feelings really frustrated me.
I enjoyed the world building of this book. As always, Victoria K. Taylor delivered with the world building and her descriptions of things.
It was a slow start, but then the second half slapped! I was so excited for dragons after the novella so I'm happy this delivered!
The next book is going to be amazing! I can't wait!
I enjoyed the world building of this book. As always, Victoria K. Taylor delivered with the world building and her descriptions of things.
It was a slow start, but then the second half slapped! I was so excited for dragons after the novella so I'm happy this delivered!
The next book is going to be amazing! I can't wait!
March 22, 2025
4.5★ rounded up!!
A Throne of Frost and Flame was everything I was looking for in ACOSAA's sequel. I loved that while easy to digest, the story was full of depth. Caelum, Deya, and Val are all were dealing with their own internal darkness and while being in their heads was extremely frustrating at times, the story was made so much stronger because of it.
All-consuming, truly. One of my favorite sequels to date. Deep, rich world building – high stakes – epic battles – vast character growth – allllllll the tension and with touch her and 💀 vibes. I'm begging, if you haven't read the Fate of the Ashes books, please pick them up and do so!
Thank you to Victoria for the chance to read an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
A Throne of Frost and Flame was everything I was looking for in ACOSAA's sequel. I loved that while easy to digest, the story was full of depth. Caelum, Deya, and Val are all were dealing with their own internal darkness and while being in their heads was extremely frustrating at times, the story was made so much stronger because of it.
All-consuming, truly. One of my favorite sequels to date. Deep, rich world building – high stakes – epic battles – vast character growth – allllllll the tension and with touch her and 💀 vibes. I'm begging, if you haven't read the Fate of the Ashes books, please pick them up and do so!
Thank you to Victoria for the chance to read an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
March 14, 2025
I LOVED THIS BOOK AND LOVE VICTORIA K. TAYLOR!!!! I cannot stress how much I loved reading this. The angst, drama, and emotion was just perfect. There is so much I loved about this book that I’m not sure I’ll be able to put it into words. I truly cannot believe this is Victoria’s debut series. It’s amazing and the world building truly transports you into Krigor.
I loved the romance and friendships so much. I loved seeing Deya and Caelum’s relationship build and for him to start to realize love isn’t a weakness. Deya also becoming more powerful was so interesting and I needed more. I loved Caelum and Val’s friendship and truly believe they are platonic soulmates. Val and Aris were so good in this book and I need more of them now.
The way all of the main characters had some growth in this book (except Rayner but he was doing other stuff) was amazing and shows how talented Victoria is. Val’s trauma and grief were so powerful to read and my heart broke for her. Deya’s guilt over her power and what it means was so hard to read because you want her to decimate everything but know it’s just not her. Watching Caelum hurt himself for the people and realm he “doesn’t love” was so sad because he feels like he doesn’t deserve a break when all he needs is to take care of himself.
I truly cannot recommend this series enough. It has gripped me since the beginning and I can’t wait to read more. It’s a masterpiece and perfect mix of romance and the trauma that comes from living under a dictatorship.
I was blessed enough to receive an ARC for this book and this is my honest review.
I loved the romance and friendships so much. I loved seeing Deya and Caelum’s relationship build and for him to start to realize love isn’t a weakness. Deya also becoming more powerful was so interesting and I needed more. I loved Caelum and Val’s friendship and truly believe they are platonic soulmates. Val and Aris were so good in this book and I need more of them now.
The way all of the main characters had some growth in this book (except Rayner but he was doing other stuff) was amazing and shows how talented Victoria is. Val’s trauma and grief were so powerful to read and my heart broke for her. Deya’s guilt over her power and what it means was so hard to read because you want her to decimate everything but know it’s just not her. Watching Caelum hurt himself for the people and realm he “doesn’t love” was so sad because he feels like he doesn’t deserve a break when all he needs is to take care of himself.
I truly cannot recommend this series enough. It has gripped me since the beginning and I can’t wait to read more. It’s a masterpiece and perfect mix of romance and the trauma that comes from living under a dictatorship.
I was blessed enough to receive an ARC for this book and this is my honest review.
March 14, 2025
Absolutely loved the progression of this story. Some good character growth for Val and Aris, a little infuriated by Caelums inability to just accept love for what it is (a strength not a weakness) but I think he's getting there slowly.
Can't wait for more Val and her Luceria.
Wondering where Deya is going to end up/how she is going to manage the darkness. Appreciate the opportunity to read the book pre release.
Can't wait for more Val and her Luceria.
Wondering where Deya is going to end up/how she is going to manage the darkness. Appreciate the opportunity to read the book pre release.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2025
The most useless main character I’ve ever read
March 12, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(4.5/5 rounded up)
Spice Level🔥 (1/5)
Spoiler Free
“The pain of our experiences strengthens our bodies . . . our souls.”
A Throne of Frost and Flame, the second book in The Fate of Ashes series by Victoria K. Taylor, isn’t just a story—it’s an experience. An all-consuming, soul-deep journey through pain, love, and the kind of loss that feels like a wound you can’t quite close. Days after finishing, I still feel haunted by it, as if the echoes of the characters’ grief and rage are still pressed against my heart.
One of the things Taylor does so well—almost too well—is make suffering feel real. The characters don’t just endure pain; they live in it, break under it, and somehow, piece themselves back together in ways that are never clean, never easy. There’s something devastatingly human about how they grieve, how they lash out, how they hold onto love even when it’s killing them. Their trauma isn’t just a plot device—it defines them, shapes them in ways that feel so raw, so honest, it’s painful to witness.
And yet, it’s impossible to look away.
The character arcs are some of the most heartbreakingly real depictions of grief I’ve ever read. There are no neat resolutions, no sudden moments of healing—it’s a slow, agonizing process of learning how to exist in the aftermath of devastation. The way anger and sorrow intertwine, the way love becomes something both beautiful and unbearable—it’s so unbelievably relatable in the worst ways. I found myself remembering my own losses, my own moments of helpless fury, and it made the story hurt in ways I didn’t expect.
And the relationships? They are everything. The romance is fraught with longing and fear, full of moments where love feels like both salvation and destruction. Every touch, every glance, carries so much unspoken emotion that I felt it in my chest. The friendships, too, are raw and complicated—love expressed through shared grief, through standing beside each other when words fail. No connection in this book is easy, and that’s what makes them so real.
Beyond the emotions, Taylor’s writing is stunning. Every sentence is crafted with such care that it doesn’t just describe—it invokes. The battle scenes aren’t just thrilling; they are felt. The magic isn’t just powerful; it’s alive.
While the fantasy elements may not feel entirely new, they are woven into the story with such precision and depth that they never feel stale. The familiar hallmarks of the genre—elemental magic, ancient prophecies, warring kingdoms—are all present, but Taylor injects them with a sense of weight and consequence that makes them feel real. The magic isn't just a tool for dazzling fight scenes; it carries history, pain, and an ever-present tension between power and sacrifice. The world itself feels lived-in, shaped by generations of conflict and lore that never overwhelm the story but rather enhance its emotional depth.
The only reason I’m holding back that last half-star is that, at times, the weight of it all became too much. Some scenes left me so emotionally drained that I had to step away, but even then, the story called me back. Because how could I not return to something that made me feel this deeply?
And just when I thought I could breathe again, Taylor leaves the ending wide open, ensuring that this journey is far from over. The final pages linger with the promise—or threat—of what’s to come, and now I’m left desperate for the next book. If you’ve ever loved a book that hurts—one that grips you so tightly you know you’ll never quite be the same—then A Throne of Frost and Flame is for you. It’s haunting, it’s breathtaking, and it’s a story that lingers long after the final page.
Spice Level🔥 (1/5)
Spoiler Free
“The pain of our experiences strengthens our bodies . . . our souls.”
A Throne of Frost and Flame, the second book in The Fate of Ashes series by Victoria K. Taylor, isn’t just a story—it’s an experience. An all-consuming, soul-deep journey through pain, love, and the kind of loss that feels like a wound you can’t quite close. Days after finishing, I still feel haunted by it, as if the echoes of the characters’ grief and rage are still pressed against my heart.
One of the things Taylor does so well—almost too well—is make suffering feel real. The characters don’t just endure pain; they live in it, break under it, and somehow, piece themselves back together in ways that are never clean, never easy. There’s something devastatingly human about how they grieve, how they lash out, how they hold onto love even when it’s killing them. Their trauma isn’t just a plot device—it defines them, shapes them in ways that feel so raw, so honest, it’s painful to witness.
And yet, it’s impossible to look away.
The character arcs are some of the most heartbreakingly real depictions of grief I’ve ever read. There are no neat resolutions, no sudden moments of healing—it’s a slow, agonizing process of learning how to exist in the aftermath of devastation. The way anger and sorrow intertwine, the way love becomes something both beautiful and unbearable—it’s so unbelievably relatable in the worst ways. I found myself remembering my own losses, my own moments of helpless fury, and it made the story hurt in ways I didn’t expect.
And the relationships? They are everything. The romance is fraught with longing and fear, full of moments where love feels like both salvation and destruction. Every touch, every glance, carries so much unspoken emotion that I felt it in my chest. The friendships, too, are raw and complicated—love expressed through shared grief, through standing beside each other when words fail. No connection in this book is easy, and that’s what makes them so real.
Beyond the emotions, Taylor’s writing is stunning. Every sentence is crafted with such care that it doesn’t just describe—it invokes. The battle scenes aren’t just thrilling; they are felt. The magic isn’t just powerful; it’s alive.
While the fantasy elements may not feel entirely new, they are woven into the story with such precision and depth that they never feel stale. The familiar hallmarks of the genre—elemental magic, ancient prophecies, warring kingdoms—are all present, but Taylor injects them with a sense of weight and consequence that makes them feel real. The magic isn't just a tool for dazzling fight scenes; it carries history, pain, and an ever-present tension between power and sacrifice. The world itself feels lived-in, shaped by generations of conflict and lore that never overwhelm the story but rather enhance its emotional depth.
The only reason I’m holding back that last half-star is that, at times, the weight of it all became too much. Some scenes left me so emotionally drained that I had to step away, but even then, the story called me back. Because how could I not return to something that made me feel this deeply?
And just when I thought I could breathe again, Taylor leaves the ending wide open, ensuring that this journey is far from over. The final pages linger with the promise—or threat—of what’s to come, and now I’m left desperate for the next book. If you’ve ever loved a book that hurts—one that grips you so tightly you know you’ll never quite be the same—then A Throne of Frost and Flame is for you. It’s haunting, it’s breathtaking, and it’s a story that lingers long after the final page.
March 21, 2025
ALL THE STARS!
BOOK II | THE FATE OF ASHES
Taylor returns with A Throne of Frost and Flame, the much anticipated follow up to the smash hit series opener A Crown of Star and Ash, and much like the previous novels in this series, this installment easily surpasses a five star rating in every aspect. A narrative that commences on a rather tense note, readers are thrown right back into the midst of the political drama which unfolded at the close of Book I. The tone is quite grim as every essential character between Deya and Caelum are now left to grapple with their new realities across every avenue of being. With threats compounding, tensions rising, and stakes mounting to impossible heights, Deya is determined to rewrite her fate and reclaim her strength despite the grave costs.
For this volume, the key trio at the heart of this story takes centerstage. Directing this narrative through the lens of Caelum, Deya and Valeria was nothing short of captivating as it generously delved into the deepest (and often darkest) corners of their psyche while effortlessly propelling forward the overarching storylines thriving within this series chapter. While impeccably capturing their unique stories, it is the ever-complex threads of trauma which ultimately knit this story together and fiercely tug at one's heartstrings across its many pages. I can't stress enough how brilliantly Taylor expresses, spotlights, and wields emotions throughout her writing and this novel is a beautiful testament of this expertise.
Along with the emotionally-stirring elements and impeccably daring addressing of dark themes, this novel is an immersive wonder that opens the door to uncharted lands and introduces a forgotten family that not colors Caelum's story in brighter new hues but that of this world. Through this unexpected turn, so much of Krigor is revealed as well as the many magical elements that exist throughout. I'm always left in awe of Taylor's intricately crafted storytelling style and the immense effort, meticulous details and depth poured into every ounce of this saga -- this installment was no exception.
There's truly so much to love in this series but there's always one aspect that makes my heart flutter, flip and race like no other. The romance between the principal pairs within this series is the kind that burns with a blazing intensity. These love stories are not easily earned which makes their deeply desired respective unions that much more meaningful and passionate. I love the way Taylor illustrates these slow burns and peppers them with honest and heart-wrenching conflicts and complexities that only furthers the longing and desire for one another. *SWOON* This series has firmly found a home in my short list of favorites and I simply cannot wait for the next novel in this show-stopping epic.
FINAL VERDICT // A wildly mesmerizing exploration of the lasting effects of trauma, the burdens of grief, and the poignant paths to one's true purpose, A Throne of Frost & Flame is an exceptional expansion of this epic tale on every front. The kind of story that makes you forget time, this richly atmospheric sequel is a true masterclass in emotional storytelling and shines with multifaceted flawed characters one can't help but admire. From the sharp dialogue to the careful pressing of dark themes, this story speared right through my heart and continues to stun with this magnificence. Simply remarkable!
*My greatest thanks to author Victoria K Taylor for granting me the opportunity to ARC read this stunning sequel. All thoughts, notes and final verdicts are freely and authentically shared.
BOOK II | THE FATE OF ASHES
Taylor returns with A Throne of Frost and Flame, the much anticipated follow up to the smash hit series opener A Crown of Star and Ash, and much like the previous novels in this series, this installment easily surpasses a five star rating in every aspect. A narrative that commences on a rather tense note, readers are thrown right back into the midst of the political drama which unfolded at the close of Book I. The tone is quite grim as every essential character between Deya and Caelum are now left to grapple with their new realities across every avenue of being. With threats compounding, tensions rising, and stakes mounting to impossible heights, Deya is determined to rewrite her fate and reclaim her strength despite the grave costs.
For this volume, the key trio at the heart of this story takes centerstage. Directing this narrative through the lens of Caelum, Deya and Valeria was nothing short of captivating as it generously delved into the deepest (and often darkest) corners of their psyche while effortlessly propelling forward the overarching storylines thriving within this series chapter. While impeccably capturing their unique stories, it is the ever-complex threads of trauma which ultimately knit this story together and fiercely tug at one's heartstrings across its many pages. I can't stress enough how brilliantly Taylor expresses, spotlights, and wields emotions throughout her writing and this novel is a beautiful testament of this expertise.
Along with the emotionally-stirring elements and impeccably daring addressing of dark themes, this novel is an immersive wonder that opens the door to uncharted lands and introduces a forgotten family that not colors Caelum's story in brighter new hues but that of this world. Through this unexpected turn, so much of Krigor is revealed as well as the many magical elements that exist throughout. I'm always left in awe of Taylor's intricately crafted storytelling style and the immense effort, meticulous details and depth poured into every ounce of this saga -- this installment was no exception.
There's truly so much to love in this series but there's always one aspect that makes my heart flutter, flip and race like no other. The romance between the principal pairs within this series is the kind that burns with a blazing intensity. These love stories are not easily earned which makes their deeply desired respective unions that much more meaningful and passionate. I love the way Taylor illustrates these slow burns and peppers them with honest and heart-wrenching conflicts and complexities that only furthers the longing and desire for one another. *SWOON* This series has firmly found a home in my short list of favorites and I simply cannot wait for the next novel in this show-stopping epic.
FINAL VERDICT // A wildly mesmerizing exploration of the lasting effects of trauma, the burdens of grief, and the poignant paths to one's true purpose, A Throne of Frost & Flame is an exceptional expansion of this epic tale on every front. The kind of story that makes you forget time, this richly atmospheric sequel is a true masterclass in emotional storytelling and shines with multifaceted flawed characters one can't help but admire. From the sharp dialogue to the careful pressing of dark themes, this story speared right through my heart and continues to stun with this magnificence. Simply remarkable!
*My greatest thanks to author Victoria K Taylor for granting me the opportunity to ARC read this stunning sequel. All thoughts, notes and final verdicts are freely and authentically shared.
March 17, 2025
💫 Fated Mates
💖 Forbidden Love
⭐️ Forced Proximity
❣️Found Family
🔥 Elemental Magic
✨ Touch Her and Die
👑 Warring Kingdoms
🩶 Morally Gray MMC
⚔️ Epic Fantasy
🐉 Dragons
🍆 One Bed
🌼 Trauma Rep
This. Book. Obliterated my heart is so many ways!
As soon as I found myself smiling over something I read, Victoria Taylor would then rip my heart out. Then the process repeated over, and over and over! But in the BEST way possible! I cannot wait until book 3 comes on the scene! So much happened but so mush is left unfinished!
I absolutely LOVED having more from not only Caelum and Deya but also Val and Aris. The character growth in this book is phenomenal! Seeing Deya become more confident and assertive as well as Caelum softening was perfection! The grief that Val struggles with was just raw and honest! How she feels her grief is the way I have found myself dealing with grief and the loss of a sister. I found myself sobbing so many times as I read more and more about Val.
Victoria does a beautiful job of building this in depth and unique world! It is so vastly different than many other fantasy world I have read. From the differing elemental abilities to the different areas throughout Krigor. You can tell a lot of thought and time went into the planning and writing of this world.
There is so much going on in this book that you will get whiplash. But not in a bad way! Several chapters end on a cliffhanger and immediately throw you head first into the next chapter with someone completely different in a crazy high stakes situation, then BAM end of chapter and on to someone else. It is breathtakingly fast paced and will leave you feeling dizzy on emotions. Multiple times this book had me crying over the very raw emotions and trauma multiple characters were feeling and dealing with. Victoria does such an amazing job at making her readers really feel all the feels.
There is nothing I didnt like about this book! Okay well, maybe just the fact that the Fireflies are gone but I’ll deal with that in therapy one day.
Favorite Quotes:
“I don’t need others to see the best in me. All I need is you.”
“That’s what grief was, she supposed. A painful, silent scream.”
“We have a warrior’s heart, me and you. We do not love, because all we know is how to fight. Love is another weakness, another thing to fear losing. And we do not have time for such liabilities.”
“‘But a warrior dies alone, nephew,’ she said, softly. ‘And without love, there is nothing to fight for.’”
“You are mine,”
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“A flower was not built to withstand a blizzard. She had learned that the hard way.”
“‘Why,” he hissed, ‘do you enjoy vexing me so much, woman?’”
“Until the next life.”
💖 Forbidden Love
⭐️ Forced Proximity
❣️Found Family
🔥 Elemental Magic
✨ Touch Her and Die
👑 Warring Kingdoms
🩶 Morally Gray MMC
⚔️ Epic Fantasy
🐉 Dragons
🍆 One Bed
🌼 Trauma Rep
This. Book. Obliterated my heart is so many ways!
As soon as I found myself smiling over something I read, Victoria Taylor would then rip my heart out. Then the process repeated over, and over and over! But in the BEST way possible! I cannot wait until book 3 comes on the scene! So much happened but so mush is left unfinished!
I absolutely LOVED having more from not only Caelum and Deya but also Val and Aris. The character growth in this book is phenomenal! Seeing Deya become more confident and assertive as well as Caelum softening was perfection! The grief that Val struggles with was just raw and honest! How she feels her grief is the way I have found myself dealing with grief and the loss of a sister. I found myself sobbing so many times as I read more and more about Val.
Victoria does a beautiful job of building this in depth and unique world! It is so vastly different than many other fantasy world I have read. From the differing elemental abilities to the different areas throughout Krigor. You can tell a lot of thought and time went into the planning and writing of this world.
There is so much going on in this book that you will get whiplash. But not in a bad way! Several chapters end on a cliffhanger and immediately throw you head first into the next chapter with someone completely different in a crazy high stakes situation, then BAM end of chapter and on to someone else. It is breathtakingly fast paced and will leave you feeling dizzy on emotions. Multiple times this book had me crying over the very raw emotions and trauma multiple characters were feeling and dealing with. Victoria does such an amazing job at making her readers really feel all the feels.
There is nothing I didnt like about this book! Okay well, maybe just the fact that the Fireflies are gone but I’ll deal with that in therapy one day.
Favorite Quotes:
“I don’t need others to see the best in me. All I need is you.”
“That’s what grief was, she supposed. A painful, silent scream.”
“We have a warrior’s heart, me and you. We do not love, because all we know is how to fight. Love is another weakness, another thing to fear losing. And we do not have time for such liabilities.”
“‘But a warrior dies alone, nephew,’ she said, softly. ‘And without love, there is nothing to fight for.’”
“You are mine,”
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“A flower was not built to withstand a blizzard. She had learned that the hard way.”
“‘Why,” he hissed, ‘do you enjoy vexing me so much, woman?’”
“Until the next life.”
March 1, 2025
I am absolutely in love with this series! These characters will pull at your heartstrings, drive you crazy, make you want to shake them, and then force you to remember a profound and fundamental truth found at the core of this series: trauma manifests in different and sometimes unexpected ways. The characters we fall in love with are imperfect, don different masks and have created methods for coping, surviving and enduring.
It can be frustrating because it forces you to confront the uncomfortable, messy and sometimes counter intuitive ways unresolved trauma shapes our sense of self, distorts reality and undermines our potential for happiness. As readers, we see and experience these characters with much more compassion and understanding than they give themselves. We’re offered a distance and perspective that they haven’t yet attained. We want them to grow and heal and see clearly. Like in life, though, all we can do is hope and root for them when they can’t root for themselves.
Deya has become untethered from her sense of self and is still struggling to reevaluate her past and her understanding of the world around her.
Val’s trauma is triggered as she becomes stuck in a web spun by her overwhelming grief and fear.
Caelum can’t see past his anger and self-loathing.
Aris’ sense of purpose has been forged by his perceived mistakes of the past. But at what cost?
Through all of this A Throne of Frost and Flame somehow manages to be funny, exciting, spicy and profoundly beautiful while confronting dark themes. Here’s a quote that made me laugh and one that made me blush!
“Caeulum ground his teeth as he watched as Espen – what a stupid name – wrapped his arms around Deya, dancing to the sound of the lyres in a quick, bouncy two step. Deya was smiling again, the tears he had seen in her eyes gone as she gazed up at the large male.”
“Now spread out on the desk in front of him in nothing but the small strip of lace covering her, Aris stared down at her naked body, and the look in his eyes was nothing like she had seen before. It was not just hunger and lust… it was something else. Something indescribable. Like seeing the moon beside the sun, like touching a star with the tip of a finger… like swallowing fire and trusting it would not burn.”
Can't wait to for book 3!
It can be frustrating because it forces you to confront the uncomfortable, messy and sometimes counter intuitive ways unresolved trauma shapes our sense of self, distorts reality and undermines our potential for happiness. As readers, we see and experience these characters with much more compassion and understanding than they give themselves. We’re offered a distance and perspective that they haven’t yet attained. We want them to grow and heal and see clearly. Like in life, though, all we can do is hope and root for them when they can’t root for themselves.
Deya has become untethered from her sense of self and is still struggling to reevaluate her past and her understanding of the world around her.
Val’s trauma is triggered as she becomes stuck in a web spun by her overwhelming grief and fear.
Caelum can’t see past his anger and self-loathing.
Aris’ sense of purpose has been forged by his perceived mistakes of the past. But at what cost?
Through all of this A Throne of Frost and Flame somehow manages to be funny, exciting, spicy and profoundly beautiful while confronting dark themes. Here’s a quote that made me laugh and one that made me blush!
“Caeulum ground his teeth as he watched as Espen – what a stupid name – wrapped his arms around Deya, dancing to the sound of the lyres in a quick, bouncy two step. Deya was smiling again, the tears he had seen in her eyes gone as she gazed up at the large male.”
“Now spread out on the desk in front of him in nothing but the small strip of lace covering her, Aris stared down at her naked body, and the look in his eyes was nothing like she had seen before. It was not just hunger and lust… it was something else. Something indescribable. Like seeing the moon beside the sun, like touching a star with the tip of a finger… like swallowing fire and trusting it would not burn.”
Can't wait to for book 3!
March 12, 2025
A Throne of Frost and Flame is a beautifully written book in the Fate of Ashes series.
AToFaF continues the story from A Crown of Star and Ash, following the crew after they take back the Celestial Kingdom. War is still on the horizon, Deya is fighting her newfound magic while Caelum is torn between love and ruling his kingdom, and Val struggles with the loss of her sisters. This story is one of betrayal, love, grief, fighting for what's right, and overcoming self-doubt.
The magic system continues to intrigue me, and there are so many unknowns about it and the world itself. We learn a little more about the celestial kingdom in this book, the frost kingdom and Caelum's family. While this follows our familiar friends from book one, we also meet new characters — and learn new information about the world and its magic. The characters' struggles are relatable, and each goes through their own journey throughout the story.
My favorite thing in this book, as well as The Lady of Fire and Light (the novella in the series), is Val's story. To me, this book was more about Val and her internal struggles - she blames herself for the death of the Fireflies, is tormented by her past and her brother's treatment of her, and her feelings of not being good enough - both with her magic and in her relationship with Aris. I fell in love with Val in the novella, and my heart broke for her when reading her story. Her struggles there continue into this book, and it was so heart-wrenching to read. The way Victoria writes this character is amazing, and the way she writes her struggles is so beautiful and emotional. I felt that same connection to Val while reading this book that I felt in the novella, and I loved every second of the emotional distress. Val's brothers make their return, and that's all I'll say so I don't ruin anything.
THE DRAGONS. I LOVED this part of the book for many reasons that I can't get into without spoilers. But I can't wait for more of it.
I love this story and all of its characters so much. Victoria's world-building and character development are so spot on. This series is one of my all-time favorites — and it's not even complete yet. I highly recommend reading this one - and I'll scream it from the mountaintops if I have to!
AToFaF continues the story from A Crown of Star and Ash, following the crew after they take back the Celestial Kingdom. War is still on the horizon, Deya is fighting her newfound magic while Caelum is torn between love and ruling his kingdom, and Val struggles with the loss of her sisters. This story is one of betrayal, love, grief, fighting for what's right, and overcoming self-doubt.
The magic system continues to intrigue me, and there are so many unknowns about it and the world itself. We learn a little more about the celestial kingdom in this book, the frost kingdom and Caelum's family. While this follows our familiar friends from book one, we also meet new characters — and learn new information about the world and its magic. The characters' struggles are relatable, and each goes through their own journey throughout the story.
My favorite thing in this book, as well as The Lady of Fire and Light (the novella in the series), is Val's story. To me, this book was more about Val and her internal struggles - she blames herself for the death of the Fireflies, is tormented by her past and her brother's treatment of her, and her feelings of not being good enough - both with her magic and in her relationship with Aris. I fell in love with Val in the novella, and my heart broke for her when reading her story. Her struggles there continue into this book, and it was so heart-wrenching to read. The way Victoria writes this character is amazing, and the way she writes her struggles is so beautiful and emotional. I felt that same connection to Val while reading this book that I felt in the novella, and I loved every second of the emotional distress. Val's brothers make their return, and that's all I'll say so I don't ruin anything.
THE DRAGONS. I LOVED this part of the book for many reasons that I can't get into without spoilers. But I can't wait for more of it.
I love this story and all of its characters so much. Victoria's world-building and character development are so spot on. This series is one of my all-time favorites — and it's not even complete yet. I highly recommend reading this one - and I'll scream it from the mountaintops if I have to!
March 17, 2025
4.5/5 ⭐️ but we can round up
2/5 🌶️
🔥 Fated mates
❄️ Forbidden love
🔥 Found family
❄️ Touch her and 💀
🔥 Elemental magic
❄️ Only one bed
🔥 Trauma rep
❄️ Warring kingdoms
🔥 Who did this to you
🐉 DRAGONS
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“Being away from you pains me . . . kills me. I did not send you here because of the realm. Fuck the realm!” he shouted. “I sent you here because the thought of seeing you hurt . . . the thought of them capturing you, makes me fucking crazy. I sent you here to save both of us, because there will be nothing left of this world if somebody hurts you. I will make sure of it.”
I loved A Throne of Frost and Flame. It picked up right where book 1 left off with the best ragtag crew you could ask for. The world building was a perfect continuation from book 1 and the prequel novella. If you’re considering reading this, DO IT, but you definitely want to read the other 2 books first.
I loved watching Caelum’s trust in his friends grow. He still had a long way to go but you can see how much he cares for his friends, even if he doesn’t want to show it. He’s basically besties with Aris now :)
Deya left me with more questions than answers, but I’m not mad about it.
I want to adopt Ulf as my grandpa, he was the cutest. I mean the most badass.
And my girl Val, get it!
The cliffhanger. I DID NOT expect that at all and now I am (im)patiently waiting for the next book in the series.
“You blasted harpy.”
“You heartless prick.”
I would’ve gobbled this book up but life and being a mom forced me to put my kindle down more often than I would’ve liked.
Thank you so so so much to Victoria K. Taylor for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can’t wait for the next book 🖤
2/5 🌶️
🔥 Fated mates
❄️ Forbidden love
🔥 Found family
❄️ Touch her and 💀
🔥 Elemental magic
❄️ Only one bed
🔥 Trauma rep
❄️ Warring kingdoms
🔥 Who did this to you
🐉 DRAGONS
“You are mine and no one else’s. If I ever see someone lay a finger on you, I will snap it from their body.”
“Being away from you pains me . . . kills me. I did not send you here because of the realm. Fuck the realm!” he shouted. “I sent you here because the thought of seeing you hurt . . . the thought of them capturing you, makes me fucking crazy. I sent you here to save both of us, because there will be nothing left of this world if somebody hurts you. I will make sure of it.”
I loved A Throne of Frost and Flame. It picked up right where book 1 left off with the best ragtag crew you could ask for. The world building was a perfect continuation from book 1 and the prequel novella. If you’re considering reading this, DO IT, but you definitely want to read the other 2 books first.
I loved watching Caelum’s trust in his friends grow. He still had a long way to go but you can see how much he cares for his friends, even if he doesn’t want to show it. He’s basically besties with Aris now :)
Deya left me with more questions than answers, but I’m not mad about it.
I want to adopt Ulf as my grandpa, he was the cutest. I mean the most badass.
And my girl Val, get it!
The cliffhanger. I DID NOT expect that at all and now I am (im)patiently waiting for the next book in the series.
“You blasted harpy.”
“You heartless prick.”
I would’ve gobbled this book up but life and being a mom forced me to put my kindle down more often than I would’ve liked.
Thank you so so so much to Victoria K. Taylor for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can’t wait for the next book 🖤
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