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Tower of Ash #1
Tower of Ash and Darkness
Lailah is the only witch of her century—a rare and feared being raised by the Vampire King to serve as his ultimate weapon. Bound by duty and mistrusted by all, she longs to escape the gilded cage that has defined her life.
But when she crosses paths with Casper—the king’s lethal shadow whose past is as shrouded as her own—her carefully constructed world begins to crack. Desire and forbidden trust spark between them, yet secrets of blood and betrayal threaten to tear them apart.
As enemies close in and a legendary stone capable of reshaping the world draws them into a deadly game, Lailah must Will she sacrifice her heart to save a world that has never accepted her—or risk everything to seize the freedom she craves?
Tower of Ash and Darkness is the first book in The Tower of Ash Series, a spellbinding blend of dark fantasy, forbidden romance, and high-stakes adventure where love and power collide—and the line between salvation and ruin is written in ash.
But when she crosses paths with Casper—the king’s lethal shadow whose past is as shrouded as her own—her carefully constructed world begins to crack. Desire and forbidden trust spark between them, yet secrets of blood and betrayal threaten to tear them apart.
As enemies close in and a legendary stone capable of reshaping the world draws them into a deadly game, Lailah must Will she sacrifice her heart to save a world that has never accepted her—or risk everything to seize the freedom she craves?
Tower of Ash and Darkness is the first book in The Tower of Ash Series, a spellbinding blend of dark fantasy, forbidden romance, and high-stakes adventure where love and power collide—and the line between salvation and ruin is written in ash.
594 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2025
33 people are currently reading
4188 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Shivers
2 books53 followersPassionate about dark fantasy and deeply layered storytelling, C.L. Shivers crafts immersive worlds filled with intrigue, romance, and unforgettable characters. With a background in psychology and a love for exploring complex emotions, her stories weave together raw human experiences and rich, atmospheric settings. Dive into her world and discover the magic hidden within the darkness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 28, 2025
This is one of those books where I wish I was physically inside the book because the writing and complex characters in this book was absolutely elite! It felt like an escape where I was intrigued and couldn’t stop reading! I was utterly addicted to this book and I need more! Book 2 can’t come fast enough!
You have a why choose moment that I’m excited to see more of and hope we get more of that in book 2 because you will be head over heels with the banter and yearning this book will deliver that will have you screaming into the void! You have so many secrets and exploding moments that will have your heart racing and gasping!
This was beautifully unique and an incredible world building filled with an arranged marriage, court politics and the fact that we get a powerful shadow mommy who is a witch that everyone fears!? Yes, please we need more of Laliah! Loved her character so much 🖤
But it’s the way this story pulled and sucked you in off the bat especially when you meet Casper.. who is the Vampire Kings ghost and the fact they can’t be together, they have this pull towards each other where they can’t stay away from one another that has you aching for more!
This will have you on the edge of your seat so buckle up baby and get ready because that ending was absolutely diabolical 🥹😩 I can’t wait for book 2 🖤
You have a why choose moment that I’m excited to see more of and hope we get more of that in book 2 because you will be head over heels with the banter and yearning this book will deliver that will have you screaming into the void! You have so many secrets and exploding moments that will have your heart racing and gasping!
This was beautifully unique and an incredible world building filled with an arranged marriage, court politics and the fact that we get a powerful shadow mommy who is a witch that everyone fears!? Yes, please we need more of Laliah! Loved her character so much 🖤
But it’s the way this story pulled and sucked you in off the bat especially when you meet Casper.. who is the Vampire Kings ghost and the fact they can’t be together, they have this pull towards each other where they can’t stay away from one another that has you aching for more!
This will have you on the edge of your seat so buckle up baby and get ready because that ending was absolutely diabolical 🥹😩 I can’t wait for book 2 🖤
May 6, 2025
A sole witch born once every century, alone, without a coven. Lailah was born with a power so great she leveled an entire kingdom when she was born. After being adopted by the vampire king, she finds herself a pawn in a game she wasn’t even aware she was the center of.
If you love your books full of political intrigue, court politics, arranged marriages, betrayal, slow burn, vampires, found family, and magic this is the book for you!
When Lailah sneaks out with a friend she comes face to face with a man who captivates her, he can never be hers though. Lailah little does she know is about to be married to her childhood friend who she thought she loved. Casper “Ghost” (this was such a fun little pun) however is constantly on her mind, a pull she cannot explain. Lailah, duty bound, will do what’s needs to be done at her father’s will. That includes marrying Jason. The deceit runs deep and she finds she cannot trust any man in her life. Except maybe one, who seems to have feeling for her that can’t quite be explained.
I loved watching Lailah come into her own, and explore more of her magic. She is a force to be reckoned with!
All the men in Lailah’s life have one common goal however and she is at the center of it. Forced to work together against a common enemy, because the world as they know it is at stake.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Casper and Lailah, yes he is not her husband, but….you’re going to just have to read to watch the story unfold.
This was a fantastic first book to a series, I cannot wait to see where it goes! Book 1 leaves us with so many unanswered questions, however the plot moved along well, and the cliffhanger thankfully wasn’t brutal it just set up for the continuation of the story, and a quest I cannot wait to read about in book 2! Thank you so much to CL Shivers for allowing me to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review
If you love your books full of political intrigue, court politics, arranged marriages, betrayal, slow burn, vampires, found family, and magic this is the book for you!
When Lailah sneaks out with a friend she comes face to face with a man who captivates her, he can never be hers though. Lailah little does she know is about to be married to her childhood friend who she thought she loved. Casper “Ghost” (this was such a fun little pun) however is constantly on her mind, a pull she cannot explain. Lailah, duty bound, will do what’s needs to be done at her father’s will. That includes marrying Jason. The deceit runs deep and she finds she cannot trust any man in her life. Except maybe one, who seems to have feeling for her that can’t quite be explained.
I loved watching Lailah come into her own, and explore more of her magic. She is a force to be reckoned with!
All the men in Lailah’s life have one common goal however and she is at the center of it. Forced to work together against a common enemy, because the world as they know it is at stake.
I absolutely loved the relationship between Casper and Lailah, yes he is not her husband, but….you’re going to just have to read to watch the story unfold.
This was a fantastic first book to a series, I cannot wait to see where it goes! Book 1 leaves us with so many unanswered questions, however the plot moved along well, and the cliffhanger thankfully wasn’t brutal it just set up for the continuation of the story, and a quest I cannot wait to read about in book 2! Thank you so much to CL Shivers for allowing me to read this pre-release in exchange for my honest review
September 17, 2025
I’m currently staring at the wall… brb
Ok so I returned finally now that I’ve collected myself and all I need to relay is that you must read this. The world building is so descriptive. The growth of Lailah and how she starts becoming more brave in her magic and realizing the world around her is not as it seems.
I LOVE the relationships between all of the characters. This is one of those books that has such a solid circle of friends with different personalities. And one thing about me baby is I loooooveeeee me some good side characters 😩 (*cough cough* Callum)
The YEARN???? THE SLOW BURN????? Yall. This book edged me so hard but it was so worth it.
I’m so intrigued with where this story is going to go, I genuinely have no idea which makes me want to keep reading. The cliff hanger? Diabolical. Like.. ok, then what!!!!?
Ok so I returned finally now that I’ve collected myself and all I need to relay is that you must read this. The world building is so descriptive. The growth of Lailah and how she starts becoming more brave in her magic and realizing the world around her is not as it seems.
I LOVE the relationships between all of the characters. This is one of those books that has such a solid circle of friends with different personalities. And one thing about me baby is I loooooveeeee me some good side characters 😩 (*cough cough* Callum)
The YEARN???? THE SLOW BURN????? Yall. This book edged me so hard but it was so worth it.
I’m so intrigued with where this story is going to go, I genuinely have no idea which makes me want to keep reading. The cliff hanger? Diabolical. Like.. ok, then what!!!!?
November 13, 2025
“You might carry darkness within you, but every time I’m near you, I’m blinded by the light you don’t even know you possess.”❤️
I’m thrilled that I chose to wait and read this book later this year, closer to the release of her second book, Tower of Ash and Betrayal. How can I move on when this book is filled with secrets that make me want to dive deeper and unravel its mysteries? The author does such a beautiful job by giving us intricate writing and world-building but also ensures that we fully comprehend our characters’ emotions. She creates such captivating and complex characters that will definitely stick with me.
As you all know, I’m not only a sucker for world-building and detailed writing, but I also find “found family” to be one of my favorite tropes. Throw in vampires, witches, magic, forbidden love, arranged marriage, political intrigue, and betrayal, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an addicting story.
By the end of this book, I was left with so many questions, so many moments where I was trying to figure out how these characters impact one another, and whether or not they had good or bad motives. To be honest, this book and these characters may end up shocking us in the next book!
This is one of those stories where you’re rooting for our FMC, Lailah. She’s struggling to find her place in a world where witches are despised and feared for their differences. But she also has to fit in with the Vampire court and please her adoptive father, the Vampire King, Clyde. As you watch her, you see her grow stronger and more attuned to her abilities, while also uncovering her past and how it ties into her present.
And then you’re introduced to our MMC, Casper, who is also filled with secrets from his past that may also connect to Lailah and his motives with the Vampire King. Their tension and relationship is so fun to read, and you can’t help but root for them.
Lastly, our side characters. The way I fell head over heels for each and every one of them in their own way, but I can easily say that Callum is someone to look out for in this book. He has mystery written all over him, and I can’t wait to see where his story leads in this book! I may also have a soft spot for Malachi.
I’m thrilled that I chose to wait and read this book later this year, closer to the release of her second book, Tower of Ash and Betrayal. How can I move on when this book is filled with secrets that make me want to dive deeper and unravel its mysteries? The author does such a beautiful job by giving us intricate writing and world-building but also ensures that we fully comprehend our characters’ emotions. She creates such captivating and complex characters that will definitely stick with me.
As you all know, I’m not only a sucker for world-building and detailed writing, but I also find “found family” to be one of my favorite tropes. Throw in vampires, witches, magic, forbidden love, arranged marriage, political intrigue, and betrayal, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for an addicting story.
By the end of this book, I was left with so many questions, so many moments where I was trying to figure out how these characters impact one another, and whether or not they had good or bad motives. To be honest, this book and these characters may end up shocking us in the next book!
This is one of those stories where you’re rooting for our FMC, Lailah. She’s struggling to find her place in a world where witches are despised and feared for their differences. But she also has to fit in with the Vampire court and please her adoptive father, the Vampire King, Clyde. As you watch her, you see her grow stronger and more attuned to her abilities, while also uncovering her past and how it ties into her present.
And then you’re introduced to our MMC, Casper, who is also filled with secrets from his past that may also connect to Lailah and his motives with the Vampire King. Their tension and relationship is so fun to read, and you can’t help but root for them.
Lastly, our side characters. The way I fell head over heels for each and every one of them in their own way, but I can easily say that Callum is someone to look out for in this book. He has mystery written all over him, and I can’t wait to see where his story leads in this book! I may also have a soft spot for Malachi.
June 2, 2025
4 💫 if you are a dark romantasy girly then add this to the tbr IMMEDIATELY.
the tension and jealousy throughout this book was LOUD and I was living for it. and that cliffhanger?!!! can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
- forbidden romance
- marriage of convenience
- vampires/magic/witch
- politics
- betrayal
thank you so much to the author for letting me read an arc copy of this book! 📖
the tension and jealousy throughout this book was LOUD and I was living for it. and that cliffhanger?!!! can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!
- forbidden romance
- marriage of convenience
- vampires/magic/witch
- politics
- betrayal
thank you so much to the author for letting me read an arc copy of this book! 📖
March 4, 2025
Tower of Ash and Darkness was incredible! 5/5 shining stars! I absolutely loved the dynamic of all of Lailah’s relationships—each one scratched a different part of my brain in the best way. The character interactions were rich, complex, and emotionally gripping, making it impossible to put this book down. The romance was the perfect level of spiciness—just enough to keep things intense and swoon-worthy without overpowering the story. The balance of tension, passion, and emotional depth made it even more addicting. I’m already eagerly anticipating the rest of the journey. If you’re looking for a compelling read with deep character connections and just the right amount of heat, this is a must-read!
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May 8, 2025I was fortunate enough to read an ARC for this book. Full review to come.
April 27, 2025
Team Stefan or Damon? If this debate sparks something in you then you are going to eat this new fantasy book up.
We’ve got vampires, humans and witches (oh, my)!
This book is clearly setting up an interesting story and the ensemble of characters and sense of found family was perfect. I can’t wait to learn more about each and every one of them.
Also… #teamcallum
We’ve got vampires, humans and witches (oh, my)!
This book is clearly setting up an interesting story and the ensemble of characters and sense of found family was perfect. I can’t wait to learn more about each and every one of them.
Also… #teamcallum
April 29, 2025
4.5 Updated ARC Review!! If vampires, a once in a lifetime witch, forbidden love, a marriage of convenience, court politics, betrayals, psychological twists & turns and more sound up your alley then mark your calendars for August 30th, because Tower of Ash and Darkness by C.L. Shivers is the book for you.
I was lucky enough to receive this as an arc and honestly thank god because it cured the reading slump I was in. This book was fantastic and it’s honestly hard to believe this is the author’s debut novel because the writing was great and the world and story were so unique and intriguing.
So our FMC, Laliah, is the only witch of her century, and she has been adopted and raised by the Vampire King to be honed into his perfect weapon. Laliah is powerful and feared by essentially everyone in this kingdom, and her entire life she has not been allowed to leave the castle walls. Little does the Vampire King know that Laliah has in fact been managing to escape her gilded cage on occasion for the past few years, and on one of these excursions, she stumbles across Casper. Casper is a vampire and the King’s lethal shadow with an extremely mysterious past, but as the two get to know each other, it is clear to Laliah that the realities of her world are much different than she originally believed and that she may be a key factor in much larger things at play that she is unaware of. Now, things get even more complicated when Jason, Laliah’s childhood friend and the son of one of the mortal kings, arrives back in the vampire court to uphold his end of quite the political alliance Jason and Laliah’s fathers have made for the two of them. Laliah is torn between the intense, passionate, obsessive pull she feels towards Casper, and the comfort and familiarity of an old friend, who is also hiding quite a bit of information. While Laliah is dealing with the emotional difficulties of her relationships, she also is uncovering and coming to terms with all of the lies and manipulations she has unwillingly been a part of, and we follow her journey uncovering this information and deciding what to do with it. I can’t really say anything else without giving the story away, but the plot takes off with political intrigue, secrets, betrayals, reveals and so much more.
This book seriously kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time reading because there are so many twists, turns and reveals and you truly never really know what is going on, which I love. The character dynamics are extremely nuanced, detailed and complex and I adored reading about all of them. C.L. Shivers is excellent at writing complex characters because I truly could not figure out the intentions of them and what exactly was going on and I found myself completely off about certain characters and plots multiple times.
I adored reading this and absolutely recommend you picking it up if you are a dark fantasy or vampire girlie. Also, the Vampire King, Clyde, reminded me so much of the Volturi from Twilight in the best way. Even though he is lowkey a villain I am kind of obsessed with him.
P.S. Casper’s nickname is The Ghost and it literally took me like 200 pages to put together the pun of Casper the friendly ghost lol. (I am also obsessed with this connection).
I was lucky enough to receive this as an arc and honestly thank god because it cured the reading slump I was in. This book was fantastic and it’s honestly hard to believe this is the author’s debut novel because the writing was great and the world and story were so unique and intriguing.
So our FMC, Laliah, is the only witch of her century, and she has been adopted and raised by the Vampire King to be honed into his perfect weapon. Laliah is powerful and feared by essentially everyone in this kingdom, and her entire life she has not been allowed to leave the castle walls. Little does the Vampire King know that Laliah has in fact been managing to escape her gilded cage on occasion for the past few years, and on one of these excursions, she stumbles across Casper. Casper is a vampire and the King’s lethal shadow with an extremely mysterious past, but as the two get to know each other, it is clear to Laliah that the realities of her world are much different than she originally believed and that she may be a key factor in much larger things at play that she is unaware of. Now, things get even more complicated when Jason, Laliah’s childhood friend and the son of one of the mortal kings, arrives back in the vampire court to uphold his end of quite the political alliance Jason and Laliah’s fathers have made for the two of them. Laliah is torn between the intense, passionate, obsessive pull she feels towards Casper, and the comfort and familiarity of an old friend, who is also hiding quite a bit of information. While Laliah is dealing with the emotional difficulties of her relationships, she also is uncovering and coming to terms with all of the lies and manipulations she has unwillingly been a part of, and we follow her journey uncovering this information and deciding what to do with it. I can’t really say anything else without giving the story away, but the plot takes off with political intrigue, secrets, betrayals, reveals and so much more.
This book seriously kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time reading because there are so many twists, turns and reveals and you truly never really know what is going on, which I love. The character dynamics are extremely nuanced, detailed and complex and I adored reading about all of them. C.L. Shivers is excellent at writing complex characters because I truly could not figure out the intentions of them and what exactly was going on and I found myself completely off about certain characters and plots multiple times.
I adored reading this and absolutely recommend you picking it up if you are a dark fantasy or vampire girlie. Also, the Vampire King, Clyde, reminded me so much of the Volturi from Twilight in the best way. Even though he is lowkey a villain I am kind of obsessed with him.
P.S. Casper’s nickname is The Ghost and it literally took me like 200 pages to put together the pun of Casper the friendly ghost lol. (I am also obsessed with this connection).
December 1, 2025
Tower of Ash and Darkness Review — AKA: The Book That Kidnapped My Weekend
This book didn’t just hook me from chapter one—it straight-up snatched my soul, sprinted off into the night, and left me willingly chasing after it like “Yes queen, take my free time!” I devoured all 571 pages in under 24 hours, which should tell you everything you need to know about my mental state and the power this story holds.
This book? All. The. Feels. I need Book 2 injected directly into my veins, thanks.
If you enjoy any of the following, please prepare your TBR and your emotions:
Dual, first-person POV
Marriage of convenience
Slow burn romance that had me feral
Political intrigue
“Touch her and die”
Forbidden romance that absolutely should not happen but absolutely must
Lailah, our girl, is basically the last witch standing—loaded with power she never asked for and adopted by a vampire king who definitely needs a therapist and maybe a hobby. He’s hunting down a world-changing stone, and Lailah is trapped navigating a life where she’s powerful but unseen. Following her journey is haunting, relatable, and occasionally made me want to scream “SOMEONE HUG HER.”
Her longing to be seen and loved hit me right in the soft, squishy part of my soul. And the romance? The tension? The banter? Yeah, I was flipping pages like I was being personally chased by a plot twist.
In conclusion: I am, unapologetically, a slut for a good Romantasy—and this book understood the assignment.
5/5. Bring me Book 2 before I start climbing actual towers.
This book didn’t just hook me from chapter one—it straight-up snatched my soul, sprinted off into the night, and left me willingly chasing after it like “Yes queen, take my free time!” I devoured all 571 pages in under 24 hours, which should tell you everything you need to know about my mental state and the power this story holds.
This book? All. The. Feels. I need Book 2 injected directly into my veins, thanks.
If you enjoy any of the following, please prepare your TBR and your emotions:
Dual, first-person POV
Marriage of convenience
Slow burn romance that had me feral
Political intrigue
“Touch her and die”
Forbidden romance that absolutely should not happen but absolutely must
Lailah, our girl, is basically the last witch standing—loaded with power she never asked for and adopted by a vampire king who definitely needs a therapist and maybe a hobby. He’s hunting down a world-changing stone, and Lailah is trapped navigating a life where she’s powerful but unseen. Following her journey is haunting, relatable, and occasionally made me want to scream “SOMEONE HUG HER.”
Her longing to be seen and loved hit me right in the soft, squishy part of my soul. And the romance? The tension? The banter? Yeah, I was flipping pages like I was being personally chased by a plot twist.
In conclusion: I am, unapologetically, a slut for a good Romantasy—and this book understood the assignment.
5/5. Bring me Book 2 before I start climbing actual towers.
October 13, 2025
The intricate plot and incredibly detailed characters will have you unable to put down this perfect romantasy!
I loved this story - I loved the way that CL wrote these characters. I loved the realness that our FMC, Lailah, showed. She is strong, and powerful, and independent - but she also questions things: herself, her value to others, that is what makes her so real and relateable.
And the MEN?!? Oh my, there was a chapter I highlighted almost every word our MMC said. And then, out of the woodwork - we get a hot, sassy, smirking side character!? Sign me alllll the way up. My loyalty is flickering when he steps on the page 🤭
The side characters and found family that we are getting, filled with so many amazing personalities, will make you giggle and kick your feet. The banter is bantering!!!!!
Please pick this one up! You will fall in love with the characters, and with the incredible writing! CL, I am so blessed to have met you through my journey reading this, thank you for letting me share memes and my wild theories. You have a fan (and hopefully friend) for life!
I loved this story - I loved the way that CL wrote these characters. I loved the realness that our FMC, Lailah, showed. She is strong, and powerful, and independent - but she also questions things: herself, her value to others, that is what makes her so real and relateable.
And the MEN?!? Oh my, there was a chapter I highlighted almost every word our MMC said. And then, out of the woodwork - we get a hot, sassy, smirking side character!? Sign me alllll the way up. My loyalty is flickering when he steps on the page 🤭
The side characters and found family that we are getting, filled with so many amazing personalities, will make you giggle and kick your feet. The banter is bantering!!!!!
Please pick this one up! You will fall in love with the characters, and with the incredible writing! CL, I am so blessed to have met you through my journey reading this, thank you for letting me share memes and my wild theories. You have a fan (and hopefully friend) for life!
September 1, 2025
I read 300 pages of this 580 page colossus and had to dnf. I didn’t enjoy the flowery writing; the words “as if…” followed by an elaborate simile were attached to every action. Pages felt overly descriptive. There were so many whole chapters dedicated to her bathing and getting dressed. I was confused by the yearning in this book, it sometimes felt misdirected.
August 8, 2025
This book deserves ALL THE HYPE!!!
April 17, 2025
This book was such a good time to read! I was always on the edge of my seat. You’ve got a powerful witch, vampires, lust, love, an obsessive MMC, and a MAJOR cliff hanger! I’m so glad I was able to be an ARC reader for this book. Can’t wait for the next one!
October 5, 2025
DNF 😞 IMO the dialogue felt too polished as if a computer wrote it.. some people might like that but I felt it was lacking texture and emotion.
Also why are so many new fantasy titles sounding exactly the same? I could see it being a good branding tactic, but again it sounds like someone just asked ChatGPT for a fantasy book title.
Also why are so many new fantasy titles sounding exactly the same? I could see it being a good branding tactic, but again it sounds like someone just asked ChatGPT for a fantasy book title.
January 7, 2026
"For now, though, we'll remain here. For now, the rest of the world can wait."
I'm truly not sure how I went so long without reading this book, but i'm so glad that i've FINALLY been introduced to this world.
The found family dynamic in this is everything! From the interactions, the banter, the pure love you can feel from each of these characters and how they show up for each other?!
The major angst and tension is what I LIVE FOR. Vibes so heavy and filled with yearning that you can feel it coming off the page, many moments that had me at the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next. There are also swoon worthy mcs in this book that are truly *MWUAH* chefs kiss.
My all time favorite being Callum, and I hope to see so much more of him in book two!
Of course shoutout to the fierce, badass fmc, Lailah, who has such a strong presence, who's resilient and captivating, and ha all of these people wrapped around her gloved fingers.
Thank you to c.I.shivers for introducing me to this world, i'm so excited to be here!
(also, how cool is it that Katherine Heigl's agent got in touch for a copy?! GET IT GIRL ✨)
I'm truly not sure how I went so long without reading this book, but i'm so glad that i've FINALLY been introduced to this world.
The found family dynamic in this is everything! From the interactions, the banter, the pure love you can feel from each of these characters and how they show up for each other?!
The major angst and tension is what I LIVE FOR. Vibes so heavy and filled with yearning that you can feel it coming off the page, many moments that had me at the edge of my seat, waiting to see what happened next. There are also swoon worthy mcs in this book that are truly *MWUAH* chefs kiss.
My all time favorite being Callum, and I hope to see so much more of him in book two!
Of course shoutout to the fierce, badass fmc, Lailah, who has such a strong presence, who's resilient and captivating, and ha all of these people wrapped around her gloved fingers.
Thank you to c.I.shivers for introducing me to this world, i'm so excited to be here!
(also, how cool is it that Katherine Heigl's agent got in touch for a copy?! GET IT GIRL ✨)
November 14, 2025
Wow.. Just Wow. This is a must read book! This is an intricately woven story of the past, present and what may become the future between witches, Vampires and humans. This author is so descriptive in her world building, characters and story that you feel like you can see it all. You find yourself aching for more, I felt like I could not quench my thirst of needing to know. The FMC of this story is bold, beautiful, smart and dangerous, but she has a need that she longs for. There are a few MMCs that all bring something different to the story. Who can she trust, who can they trust, how much are they willing to share? Will Lailah ever be given the whole truth? The angst in this book is top level, this is a slow burn and worth every page turn. I have a desperate need for book 2!!!
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November 26, 2025Incredibly confused how this has earned such high rating from the folks who’ve read this?
I had to drop this 109 pages in… There is zero plot or understanding for this storyline. And the fmc cried over an old love interest smooching someone else? A guy she hasn’t seen in years and she acts as if they’ve been going steady for a millennia? For the love of the gods, you’re a witch. Pull yourself together.
I had to drop this 109 pages in… There is zero plot or understanding for this storyline. And the fmc cried over an old love interest smooching someone else? A guy she hasn’t seen in years and she acts as if they’ve been going steady for a millennia? For the love of the gods, you’re a witch. Pull yourself together.
April 17, 2025
I read this as an ARC reader and THIS. BOOK. This first chapter started out with so much tension I was sweating and yes, it continued throughout the rest of the book. I loved the world building, the details, and the character development that this book gave. Ugh and the YEARNING! I loved the journey of this book and can’t wait to see what happens next!
September 2, 2025
This had such high ratings, but I feel like the author lost the plot for a LONG time. I will read the next book in hopes it gets better, but there was just a lot missing for me. Instead of getting to the best parts by halfway (like most books I read), it slowed down even more and lost me for a long time.
January 13, 2026
It's a beautiful story and I would recommend this book to everyone and I love it I can't wait to reread it all over so I can read the second book
January 19, 2026
soft dnf i was getting tired of the back and forth with no information 🙃
April 17, 2025
Tower of Ash and Darkness
This was a great fantasy read! A story filled with vampires, witches, ghosts, and mortals! The book follows Lailah as she navigates how to trust herself, discovers that not everything is as it seems, and learns how to love. You will be hooked from the beginning of the book, with complex characters, surprising twists, and a unique journey that will have you guessing what happens next.
*I received an ARC copy of the book*
This was a great fantasy read! A story filled with vampires, witches, ghosts, and mortals! The book follows Lailah as she navigates how to trust herself, discovers that not everything is as it seems, and learns how to love. You will be hooked from the beginning of the book, with complex characters, surprising twists, and a unique journey that will have you guessing what happens next.
*I received an ARC copy of the book*
April 25, 2025
OKAY! Let me start off my saying I’m a romantasy/dark romance babe. I never have read anything vampire/witch related. I have to say as soon as I dove into this one right off the bat, I feel in love with the main female character Lailah. The character development, the plot, the world build up, the slow burn, the anticipation of what will happen next had me on the edge of my dang seat! This authors writings to me is smooth and like poetry. The way I melted and connected with the characters in this book (I won’t spoil anything) but WOW! I understood the authors writing in a way I couldn’t even explain. Just be prepared for this story to in-captivate you. It’s going to pull you in so deep. I will be reading more of this authors books because she writes with passion and no confusion. In some fantasy books I can barely hang on by the world build up but this was one that I could catch on quickly with. Get ready to drool and fall in love.
April 5, 2025
Absolutely loved Tower of Ash and Darkness! It is a must read for anyone who likes romance and fantasy with a dark twist. The story so immersive and descriptive it’s hard to put down. You instantly fall in love with the characters and their stories.
There is a perfect level of spice and tension throughout that just enhances the thrilling story line! Definitely consider this book a 5/5!
There is a perfect level of spice and tension throughout that just enhances the thrilling story line! Definitely consider this book a 5/5!
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January 27, 2026WOAH! Lailah is the sole witch in this world, there’s only one witch per generation, and she’s “adopted” by the vampire king. He molds her *cough cough* control. Lailah has to exist & navigate in a game she doesn’t know she’s a player in with SO MANY FREAKING SECRETS! But don’t worry she gets to have fun with a hot vampire. End game is making sure her “father” never gets a magical artifact that could destroy the world.
July 1, 2025
Wow…I cannot say enough about this book. I was hooked from the start, and watching Lailah grow was an incredible journey. The plot kept me on my toes, the underlying secrets and betrayals had my jaw dropping with every twist. And the TENSION and YEARNING in the slow-burn romance was literally incredible!!! A must read!
July 22, 2025
Ok, so I found out about this book from kenzie reads. And then once i got my hands on this book in ebook form - i realized i needed the physical copy. From the first page of the prologue with the use of lyrical writing i was hooked. By pg 16 “And then I saw him.” Which is one of my favourite lines…. I was done for.
This book has triggers - and they need to be respected. There are dark themes and there are dark moments.
This book has a lot of character growth from the FMC and the MMC but also the side characters. And the healing journey through trauma is represented so well. I watched Lailah, the FMC, grow throughout the book. I connected with her a lot which also made the journey through this book, one most appreciated.
And the quotes, dang, they are good. “The sun feels foreign now, almost hostile,like it would burn me if I dares let it touch my skin. I know my pale complexion is no longer just a mark of my lineage, but a permanent reminder of what I’ve become — something that could walk among the undead.”
And simple quotes that can just grab you with just a “Lailah” or “Casper”. People have said it is a why choose - and i would argue this book shows how love is developed and grows. There are different forms of love and relationships. We love different people for differ reasons given our circumstances. I feel like this is a true slow burn book full of mystery. There are some easter eggs… which i LOVE.
To see this book so underrated, it sucks. If you love witches, vampires, “touch her and ..” vibes with found family, and a good mystery…This is for you. Again check triggers.
I am very excited to read book 2. I cannot wait to see where this goes as i have so many theories.
This book has triggers - and they need to be respected. There are dark themes and there are dark moments.
This book has a lot of character growth from the FMC and the MMC but also the side characters. And the healing journey through trauma is represented so well. I watched Lailah, the FMC, grow throughout the book. I connected with her a lot which also made the journey through this book, one most appreciated.
And the quotes, dang, they are good. “The sun feels foreign now, almost hostile,like it would burn me if I dares let it touch my skin. I know my pale complexion is no longer just a mark of my lineage, but a permanent reminder of what I’ve become — something that could walk among the undead.”
And simple quotes that can just grab you with just a “Lailah” or “Casper”. People have said it is a why choose - and i would argue this book shows how love is developed and grows. There are different forms of love and relationships. We love different people for differ reasons given our circumstances. I feel like this is a true slow burn book full of mystery. There are some easter eggs… which i LOVE.
To see this book so underrated, it sucks. If you love witches, vampires, “touch her and ..” vibes with found family, and a good mystery…This is for you. Again check triggers.
I am very excited to read book 2. I cannot wait to see where this goes as i have so many theories.
September 8, 2025
Dark romantasy is truly becoming one of my fave genres because wow I LOVED this book! I was HOOKED from the first chapter.
In Tower of Ash and Darkness, we follow Princess Lailah, the last remaining witch in a world filled with vampires and humans. At a young age, she was adopted and raised by the vampire king, Clyde, who taught her to be in control, fierce, and powerful!
Princess Lailah is well aware of her role within the court, and her father, King Clyde, arranges for her to be married to the lord of a human kingdom in order to strengthen their alliance. Princess Lailah, however, meets a mysterious vampire named Casper who also goes by "Ghost" just before her engagement is to be announced, and she can’t resist the pull she feels toward him! They find themselves drawn together, and the story launches from there!
I truly enjoyed the political and court dynamics within the book. Princess Lailah may have been trained to know her role within the court, but best believe she is by no means a weak princess! I admired how strong Lailah is and her ability to stand up for herself when she is treated unfairly!
The tension and yearning between Lailah and Casper was alluring and had me blushing! Omg I SCREAMED when I realized the book includes dual POV! Casper’s POV had me in a trance!! Also the side characters in the book and the found family were everything!
Also, don’t even get me started on the ending!! C.L. Shivers, I will in fact beg for book two!
In Tower of Ash and Darkness, we follow Princess Lailah, the last remaining witch in a world filled with vampires and humans. At a young age, she was adopted and raised by the vampire king, Clyde, who taught her to be in control, fierce, and powerful!
Princess Lailah is well aware of her role within the court, and her father, King Clyde, arranges for her to be married to the lord of a human kingdom in order to strengthen their alliance. Princess Lailah, however, meets a mysterious vampire named Casper who also goes by "Ghost" just before her engagement is to be announced, and she can’t resist the pull she feels toward him! They find themselves drawn together, and the story launches from there!
I truly enjoyed the political and court dynamics within the book. Princess Lailah may have been trained to know her role within the court, but best believe she is by no means a weak princess! I admired how strong Lailah is and her ability to stand up for herself when she is treated unfairly!
The tension and yearning between Lailah and Casper was alluring and had me blushing! Omg I SCREAMED when I realized the book includes dual POV! Casper’s POV had me in a trance!! Also the side characters in the book and the found family were everything!
Also, don’t even get me started on the ending!! C.L. Shivers, I will in fact beg for book two!
November 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely obsessed.
Tower of Ash and Darkness by C.L. Shivers completely wrecked me in the best possible way. The world-building is insane — dark, detailed, and so easy to fall into that I forgot I was reading. Every place, every bit of lore, every twist in the magic system just felt alive.
The characters? So complex it hurts. No one is simple, no one is purely good or evil, and that grayness made every scene feel tense and real. I found myself caring about people I didn’t even like at first — and that’s how you know it’s good writing.
And then there’s Callum. Oh. My. God. CALLUM. He’s the definition of spicy with emotional damage. Brooding, dangerous, magnetic — every time he showed up on the page I basically stopped breathing. The chemistry, the tension, the way he walks that line between dark and irresistible? Perfection.
I actually slowed down near the end because I didn’t want it to be over. It’s one of those rare books that you want to live in just a little bit longer, even when it breaks your heart a little.
C.L. Shivers’ writing is addictive, the plot never drags, and the emotional stakes just keep climbing. It’s dark fantasy done right. I’m already counting down the days until the next one.
Tower of Ash and Darkness by C.L. Shivers completely wrecked me in the best possible way. The world-building is insane — dark, detailed, and so easy to fall into that I forgot I was reading. Every place, every bit of lore, every twist in the magic system just felt alive.
The characters? So complex it hurts. No one is simple, no one is purely good or evil, and that grayness made every scene feel tense and real. I found myself caring about people I didn’t even like at first — and that’s how you know it’s good writing.
And then there’s Callum. Oh. My. God. CALLUM. He’s the definition of spicy with emotional damage. Brooding, dangerous, magnetic — every time he showed up on the page I basically stopped breathing. The chemistry, the tension, the way he walks that line between dark and irresistible? Perfection.
I actually slowed down near the end because I didn’t want it to be over. It’s one of those rare books that you want to live in just a little bit longer, even when it breaks your heart a little.
C.L. Shivers’ writing is addictive, the plot never drags, and the emotional stakes just keep climbing. It’s dark fantasy done right. I’m already counting down the days until the next one.
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