Thenia spent the past decade trapped in a manipulative relationship where she was to smile on cue, be pretty, and keep her mouth shut. Having escaped that mistake, she's now looking for a new place to plant her roots.
Serena is one of many children, and always the one left behind and forgotten. When her only friend dies, she's left adrift, but something keeps her on Giri lands.
Ashton's grandparents died in their sleep, and now he must return home and care for his Gram's life work and his Pops’ stunning gardens. Left with only his memories, a friend advises Ashton to hire a groundskeeper.
Behind the scenes, something is brewing. Secrets long forgotten are unearthed, ancient allies find themselves working together again, and sometimes the best weapon isn't a sword--it's ones and zeros.
Read the first book in The AIS Files, a new series in the Chronicles from Alku universe. Earth, Beast, Metal is a blend of fantasy and science fiction with a closed-door polyamorous relationship and asexual representation.
Eliza Leone is an author from the Pacific Northwest who specializes in chronicling the stories of her imaginary friends. As a kid, you could find her on the playground with a few kids acting out the stories they'd made up. When she got older and discovered that entire worlds were hidden within the pages of endless books, chances are her nose was in one. Over time, Friday nights were reserved for bookstore runs with her mother, and together, they'd resupply for a week of adventures. Writing had always been a far-off dream, but her ability to spell and do that grammar thing correctly was severely lacking. It wasn't until her mid-twenties that she decided that if she were only writing it for herself, no one would care about her lack of proper punctuation. Ten years and over a dozen books later, her family, human, and fiction, convinced her to finally share her stories with the world. From short stories and micro-fiction to the entire urban fantasy universe of Alku and its people, Eliza can't wait for you to giggle, sob, and throw your book across the room with her. Just...please don't throw the e-readers.
This is such a fun story and a very cool glimpse into the wider universe of this world. We follow three main characters, all which have some mystery and trauma in their past, get thrown together by some unfortunate events. But fate has a funny way of delivering exactly what one needs, sometimes by crow. There is so much emotional intelligence, healthy boundaries and communication with the love story between these characters; It’s joyfully refreshing to read about adults in love instead of yet another 19 year old. There is mystery and magic, drama, intrigue, sketchy pseudo government entities, found family, cozy vibes and summer storms that make this a delicious read to sink into on a quiet summer evening. I look forward to what will come next in the AIS files as this certainly sets the tone for some interesting adventures in the future.
I knew going into Earth, Beast, Metal that I would love it. This book was a perfect blend of urban fantasy, sci fi and romance. It had cozy vibes reminiscent to Alku, but unique to its story. I loved the vibes of gardening and cooking, definitely adding to the coziness and I loved learning about the different characters and their quirks. I absolutely appreciate the references to The Final Keeper Trilogy and highly recommend reading that first. I wasn't sure at first how sci fi would translate into this world, but it was absolutely fascinating and still easy to understand as someone who is a beginner to sci fi. In comparison to the Final Keeper Trilogy, I would say there is more romance in Earth, Beast, Metal. It very enjoyable to read something in the same world while being different. I am already anxious for the next book.
Loved this story. The characters were sweet and the imagery of the location made me want to transport there and curl up on the swing bed to soak up the sun. The story just kept adding more as I got into it that made it impossible to stop reading. Can’t wait to find out more about these characters and where the author will take us next.
It’s always a good day when a book by Eliza hits my inbox. I was SO happy to be exploring the Alku universe again. I loved Thenia from page one. She is such a strong and determined character in search of a new place to plant her roots and boy did she find it. The world-building is rich and earthy, with a magical tone that feels grounded in science fiction and ancient power. Ashton also stole my heart almost right away. Tending to his late grandparents’ garden as a way to hold onto their memory, and Serena, who’s grappling with the raw grief of losing her best friend. Healing and growth took center stage in this one and I can’t wait to see what is next. Oh I guess the 🌶️ also took my center stage if you know what I mean. If you're into fantasy with a deep emotional core and characters who feel like old friends, this book is well worth your time. Thanks for having me back to this universe!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This book was such a great read. I absolutely loved the banter and dynamics of the characters that you got to know throughout the book. I also, loved the age of the characters. Expect the unexpected and lots of twists and turns. There are multiple points of views which is a bonus. This book sets you up with character backgrounds, possibilities and so much more. I’m looking forward to more books with these characters.
I really enjoyed the elemental witchy aspect of this book. Shifters and secret agents add more layers to this story. The soft romance unfolding between the main characters is so very sweet as they navigate life abs grow past their trauma of past lives. I hope to see this story grow as these were very likable characters.
What an amazing story. I loved the character development. It felt like a gathering of wounded souls that just needed to reawaken their inner strength in order to heal. A sweet story of a group of unlikely friends that learn to connect, trust, and love not only themselves but each other. Together they battle inner demons, family dysfunction, grief, and an intriguing mystery that all serve to bring the unique little group closer together in amazing ways. There’s magic, mystery, love and some unexpected surprises. A must read! Impatiently waiting for the next release from this amazing author.