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Fated to the Sun and Stars #2
Forged in Flame and Shadow
He tore her world apart. Now he may be the only one who can help her save it.
Ana has spent her life as a pawn—used, betrayed, and hunted. But no more.
As the rightful heir to Trova’s blood-soaked throne, she’s ready to rise—ruthless, unyielding, and armed with the celestial magic awakening inside her.
But power always has a price, and Ana is already burning beneath the weight of it.
To control the force threatening to consume her, Ana must ally with the man who once left her for dead.
Leon stole her away, shattered her heart, and turned her world to ash.
Now, he needs her magic to save his brother—and she needs his help to control it before it destroys her.
Enemies close in. A zealot hunts her from the shadows. And with every glance, every touch, the bond between Ana and Leon deepens—twisting into something fierce, forbidden, and impossible to ignore.
But in a realm built on blood and lies, love is a fatal weakness.
And surrendering to him again could cost her everything.
Ana has spent her life as a pawn—used, betrayed, and hunted. But no more.
As the rightful heir to Trova’s blood-soaked throne, she’s ready to rise—ruthless, unyielding, and armed with the celestial magic awakening inside her.
But power always has a price, and Ana is already burning beneath the weight of it.
To control the force threatening to consume her, Ana must ally with the man who once left her for dead.
Leon stole her away, shattered her heart, and turned her world to ash.
Now, he needs her magic to save his brother—and she needs his help to control it before it destroys her.
Enemies close in. A zealot hunts her from the shadows. And with every glance, every touch, the bond between Ana and Leon deepens—twisting into something fierce, forbidden, and impossible to ignore.
But in a realm built on blood and lies, love is a fatal weakness.
And surrendering to him again could cost her everything.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 4, 2025
About the author
Zara Storm
21 books213 followersFor readers who love clever heroines and twisty plots that keep you thinking.
Zara Storm writes fantasy romance with dark, compelling heroes and sassy, competent heroines. Her debut series is The Gold Weaver series. Zara loves fast-paced books with adventure, magic, strong characters, a rough-edged hero, and spicy romance.
Zara lives in Colorado with her husband, their two kids, her scaredy cat pit-bull mix, and their feisty cat who is queen of the house. When she’s not writing, she loves to read, hike the mountains, and travel to new places, but she’ll cop to the fact that she spends too much time watching Tiktok videos and she can endlessly watch Lucifer and Vampire Diaries.
You can connect with Zara on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, and her website.
Zara Storm writes fantasy romance with dark, compelling heroes and sassy, competent heroines. Her debut series is The Gold Weaver series. Zara loves fast-paced books with adventure, magic, strong characters, a rough-edged hero, and spicy romance.
Zara lives in Colorado with her husband, their two kids, her scaredy cat pit-bull mix, and their feisty cat who is queen of the house. When she’s not writing, she loves to read, hike the mountains, and travel to new places, but she’ll cop to the fact that she spends too much time watching Tiktok videos and she can endlessly watch Lucifer and Vampire Diaries.
You can connect with Zara on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, and her website.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
July 1, 2025
If you're a sucker for action-packed romantasy with fae x human tension, found family, and the glorious “he falls first” trope buckle up, this one’s for you.
Book two in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series absolutely delivered, it's written in multiple PoVs. It picks up right where book one left us hanging and drops us straight into the heart of the story. I'm a fan of zealot, Temple and The Grand Bearer overarching plot and we finally got more breadcrumbs. I flew through the book and had a fantastic time.
The pacing? Spot on. Super smooth read with just enough momentum to keep the pages flipping.
The romance is still simmering and sizzling. That tension? Definitely tensioning. Morgana's character is growing in every way, physically, mentally. But Leon? Oh, he’s already down bad. Classic “he falls first” energy, and I love it.
Loved the handy glossary in the back but I’m still holding out hope for a simple map.
I had a good time with this one and I’m definitely sticking with the series.
Huge thanks to Zara Storm for the ARC, opinions are all mine.
Curse of the Sun and Stars (Book 1): 4⭐ Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book two in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series absolutely delivered, it's written in multiple PoVs. It picks up right where book one left us hanging and drops us straight into the heart of the story. I'm a fan of zealot, Temple and The Grand Bearer overarching plot and we finally got more breadcrumbs. I flew through the book and had a fantastic time.
The pacing? Spot on. Super smooth read with just enough momentum to keep the pages flipping.
The romance is still simmering and sizzling. That tension? Definitely tensioning. Morgana's character is growing in every way, physically, mentally. But Leon? Oh, he’s already down bad. Classic “he falls first” energy, and I love it.
Loved the handy glossary in the back but I’m still holding out hope for a simple map.
I had a good time with this one and I’m definitely sticking with the series.
Huge thanks to Zara Storm for the ARC, opinions are all mine.
Curse of the Sun and Stars (Book 1): 4⭐ Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 23, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Compared to the first book, I didn't enjoy this one as much as I hoped I would.
Most of the plot seemed monotone and putting it side by side with Curse of the Sun and Stars, I feel like almost nothing was happening, excluding few chapters in the middle and the very ending.
I'm not sure what happened, but I couldn't feel the spark that was there in book one. Alastor stopped being funny compared to what we previously got. The relationship between Ana and Leon? Beside one major talk, it focused mostly on intimacy and it seemed to take most, if not all of the tension we could feel during their travels.
Some parts were still predictable, but at this point we can call them tropes, right?
But from pleasant surprises: . That's it, that's all I have to say about that. I mean I really, really love in books, almost as much as cats.
I still enjoyed the read and devoured it in few hours, but it wasn't the same kind of fun that I had with the first one.
Compared to the first book, I didn't enjoy this one as much as I hoped I would.
Most of the plot seemed monotone and putting it side by side with Curse of the Sun and Stars, I feel like almost nothing was happening, excluding few chapters in the middle and the very ending.
I'm not sure what happened, but I couldn't feel the spark that was there in book one. Alastor stopped being funny compared to what we previously got. The relationship between Ana and Leon? Beside one major talk, it focused mostly on intimacy and it seemed to take most, if not all of the tension we could feel during their travels.
Some parts were still predictable, but at this point we can call them tropes, right?
But from pleasant surprises: . That's it, that's all I have to say about that. I mean I really, really love in books, almost as much as cats.
I still enjoyed the read and devoured it in few hours, but it wasn't the same kind of fun that I had with the first one.
May 9, 2026
In the high-stakes world of Zara Storm’s Forged in Flame and Shadow, the second installment of this series, the tension is dialed up to an eleven from the very first page. Picking up immediately after the heart-pounding conclusion of book one, the story wastes no time in plunging readers back into the fray.
The narrative continues to follow Ana, who is undergoing a transformation. In this installment, we see her truly coming into her own. Her growth is not just emotional but magical; she begins to exhibit a much more sophisticated control over her powers. Storm does an excellent job of illustrating the physical and mental toll this progress takes on her. As Ana masters her celestial magic, it begins to reshape her worldview and her future plans. She is no longer just a pawn in the games of others; she is a player in her own right. However, this newfound independence creates a friction in her relationship with Leon. Despite their deepening bond, Ana is increasingly unsure of how he fits into the life she is building for herself—especially as her responsibilities as an heir loom larger.
On the other side of this intense dynamic is Leon. He is driven by a singular, desperate purpose: keeping Ana safe. Leon is a complex hero, haunted by his past actions and the weight of his secrets. His determination is unwavering, yet it is tinged with a tragic realization. Because of their warring backgrounds and the volatile political landscape of Trova, he is plagued by uncertainty. He wants a future with Ana, but he is realistically terrified that they might not even have one. This internal conflict adds a layer of angst to their interactions, making every touch and glance feel heavy with the "what-ifs."
One of the highlights of this sequel is the pacing. Storm keeps the momentum swift without sacrificing the world-building. For readers eager to understand the broader mechanics of the world, this book provides some much-needed insight into the Temple. We finally get a closer look at the machinations of Sophos and Caledon. Their scenes are chilling and effectively heighten the sense of looming danger, reminding the reader that while Ana and Leon are wrestling with their feelings, a much larger, darker storm is brewing on the horizon. These glimpses into the antagonists' plans provide a necessary counterweight to the central romance, grounding the story in a high-stakes political thriller.
The writing remains sharp, and the "romantasy" elements are balanced perfectly with the action. By the time you reach the final chapters, the tension is almost unbearable—and then, the cliffhanger hits. It is the kind of ending that leaves you immediately reaching for the next volume.
Overall, Forged in Flame and Shadow is a stellar second act. It manages to avoid the "middle book syndrome" by pushing its characters to their breaking points and expanding the world in meaningful ways. If you enjoyed the first book, this one will solidify your obsession with the series. I, for one, am ready to dive into the next book immediately to see how Ana and Leon survive the chaos they’ve sparked. Brace yourself—this is a journey you won't want to end.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative continues to follow Ana, who is undergoing a transformation. In this installment, we see her truly coming into her own. Her growth is not just emotional but magical; she begins to exhibit a much more sophisticated control over her powers. Storm does an excellent job of illustrating the physical and mental toll this progress takes on her. As Ana masters her celestial magic, it begins to reshape her worldview and her future plans. She is no longer just a pawn in the games of others; she is a player in her own right. However, this newfound independence creates a friction in her relationship with Leon. Despite their deepening bond, Ana is increasingly unsure of how he fits into the life she is building for herself—especially as her responsibilities as an heir loom larger.
On the other side of this intense dynamic is Leon. He is driven by a singular, desperate purpose: keeping Ana safe. Leon is a complex hero, haunted by his past actions and the weight of his secrets. His determination is unwavering, yet it is tinged with a tragic realization. Because of their warring backgrounds and the volatile political landscape of Trova, he is plagued by uncertainty. He wants a future with Ana, but he is realistically terrified that they might not even have one. This internal conflict adds a layer of angst to their interactions, making every touch and glance feel heavy with the "what-ifs."
One of the highlights of this sequel is the pacing. Storm keeps the momentum swift without sacrificing the world-building. For readers eager to understand the broader mechanics of the world, this book provides some much-needed insight into the Temple. We finally get a closer look at the machinations of Sophos and Caledon. Their scenes are chilling and effectively heighten the sense of looming danger, reminding the reader that while Ana and Leon are wrestling with their feelings, a much larger, darker storm is brewing on the horizon. These glimpses into the antagonists' plans provide a necessary counterweight to the central romance, grounding the story in a high-stakes political thriller.
The writing remains sharp, and the "romantasy" elements are balanced perfectly with the action. By the time you reach the final chapters, the tension is almost unbearable—and then, the cliffhanger hits. It is the kind of ending that leaves you immediately reaching for the next volume.
Overall, Forged in Flame and Shadow is a stellar second act. It manages to avoid the "middle book syndrome" by pushing its characters to their breaking points and expanding the world in meaningful ways. If you enjoyed the first book, this one will solidify your obsession with the series. I, for one, am ready to dive into the next book immediately to see how Ana and Leon survive the chaos they’ve sparked. Brace yourself—this is a journey you won't want to end.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2025
That ending!!
Thank you Zara Storm for an eARC copy of Forged in Flame and Shadow.
Zara Storm did it again - the story, characters, world building, revenge, politics, spice. This book had it all. We started right where we left off in book one and I was transported back to Ana and Leon.
How Zara knows how to write side characters - they are just as pivotal as our main FMC and MMC and bring all the banter and humor.
I loved every bit of this and read it just a few days. I will anxiously be waiting for book three.
Thank you Zara Storm for an eARC copy of Forged in Flame and Shadow.
Zara Storm did it again - the story, characters, world building, revenge, politics, spice. This book had it all. We started right where we left off in book one and I was transported back to Ana and Leon.
How Zara knows how to write side characters - they are just as pivotal as our main FMC and MMC and bring all the banter and humor.
I loved every bit of this and read it just a few days. I will anxiously be waiting for book three.
June 20, 2026
Thank you NetGalley for a digital box set that included this title.
After an eventful escape from Trovia, Ana and Leon head to his kingdom in hopes of saving his brother from a wasting disease. There, Ana meets an array of fae that keep things interesting. Some want to help her and others want her out of the way.
This installment of the series was pretty action-packed. There was a lot happening and the story flowed well. I still don't really connect with either main character, but I'm enjoying the story.
After an eventful escape from Trovia, Ana and Leon head to his kingdom in hopes of saving his brother from a wasting disease. There, Ana meets an array of fae that keep things interesting. Some want to help her and others want her out of the way.
This installment of the series was pretty action-packed. There was a lot happening and the story flowed well. I still don't really connect with either main character, but I'm enjoying the story.
July 1, 2025
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5⭐
Zara did it again. I was hooked from the very first page and flew through this second installment in just a couple of days. Returning to Ana and Leon’s world felt effortless... like being dropped right back into the magic, chaos, and tension that made book one so addictive.
This sequel definitely had that “second book” energy.. not in a bad way, but in the sense that you can feel it’s laying the groundwork for something big. There’s a ton of training, scheming, emotional growth, and just enough betrayal and secrets to keep you turning pages at full speed. I loved watching Ana continue to grow into her powers and strength. She didn’t just wake up suddenly badass, no.. she earned it. And I love a heroine who puts in the work.
Now let’s talk about Leo for a second. I’ll admit, this book completely changed my thoughts on him. Getting his POV was everything. The layers, the vulnerability, the fire… he’s protective, flawed, and completely obsessed with Ana in the kind of way that makes your heart race and ache at the same time. Their chemistry? Equal parts tension, heat, and emotional depth. Enemies-to-lovers (or at least enemies-to-something-burning-hot) is one of my favorite tropes, and this book absolutely delivered.
And can we give a shoutout to the side characters? Zara knows how to make the whole cast shine.. there’s banter, loyalty, humor, and just the right amount of drama. The world feels rich and lived in, and even the political threads and fae tensions kept me fully invested.
That ending? Whew. I'm dying to know what’s next. I can already tell book three is going to be wild... and I’ll be anxiously waiting for the chaos it’s sure to bring. If you’re into magic, tension-filled romance, layered characters, and a fantasy world that keeps you guessing, you need to read this series.
** I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Zara did it again. I was hooked from the very first page and flew through this second installment in just a couple of days. Returning to Ana and Leon’s world felt effortless... like being dropped right back into the magic, chaos, and tension that made book one so addictive.
This sequel definitely had that “second book” energy.. not in a bad way, but in the sense that you can feel it’s laying the groundwork for something big. There’s a ton of training, scheming, emotional growth, and just enough betrayal and secrets to keep you turning pages at full speed. I loved watching Ana continue to grow into her powers and strength. She didn’t just wake up suddenly badass, no.. she earned it. And I love a heroine who puts in the work.
Now let’s talk about Leo for a second. I’ll admit, this book completely changed my thoughts on him. Getting his POV was everything. The layers, the vulnerability, the fire… he’s protective, flawed, and completely obsessed with Ana in the kind of way that makes your heart race and ache at the same time. Their chemistry? Equal parts tension, heat, and emotional depth. Enemies-to-lovers (or at least enemies-to-something-burning-hot) is one of my favorite tropes, and this book absolutely delivered.
And can we give a shoutout to the side characters? Zara knows how to make the whole cast shine.. there’s banter, loyalty, humor, and just the right amount of drama. The world feels rich and lived in, and even the political threads and fae tensions kept me fully invested.
That ending? Whew. I'm dying to know what’s next. I can already tell book three is going to be wild... and I’ll be anxiously waiting for the chaos it’s sure to bring. If you’re into magic, tension-filled romance, layered characters, and a fantasy world that keeps you guessing, you need to read this series.
** I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
I’m so grateful to have received an eARC of Forged in Flame and Shadow by Zara Storm, the second book in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series, and wow, what a ride!
This book picks up immediately after the events of book one, with Ana and Leon still very much at odds after Leon’s betrayal. They’re now on their way to the fae capital, traveling with Leon’s band of riff raffs (love them) and Ana’s best friend Tira. It was so easy to fall right back into this world and especially back into that addictive tension between Ana and Leon, even when they’re not seeing eye to eye.
This installment definitely felt like it was laying the groundwork for even bigger things to come, but it still had everything I loved from book one: more magic, more tension, and more character growth! I loved watching Ana step further into her power and strength during her training, becoming more confident, and really starting to embody the queen she’s meant to be.
And the dual POV from Leon? Absolutely loved it. Getting to see inside his head, learning about his past, and understanding why he carries the “nightmare” reputation added so much depth to his character and made me love him even more.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the found family element, as always, especially one specific scene at a ball where Ana’s friends and the other women stand by her side, back her up, and remind her how strong she really is with their support. It was powerful, exciting, and extremely fun to read.
And THAT ENDING. Zara, you did it again! I finished this book immediately wanting (needing) the next one because those last pages left me with so many questions and so much anticipation.
Tropes include:
❤️🔥 enemies-> reluctant allies-> lovers (again!)
❤️🔥 dual POV
❤️🔥 hidden powers
❤️🔥 secrets and lies
❤️🔥 found family
❤️🔥 celestial magic
❤️🔥 political intrigue
Overall, a fast-paced, magical, and satisfying sequel that left me desperate for more. I gave this book 4.5/5 ⭐and would definitely recommend to any fantasy reader who's a fan of books like Spark of the Everflame, Blood and Steel, or The Plated Prisoner series!
Thank you to Zara Storm and team for the ARC!
This book picks up immediately after the events of book one, with Ana and Leon still very much at odds after Leon’s betrayal. They’re now on their way to the fae capital, traveling with Leon’s band of riff raffs (love them) and Ana’s best friend Tira. It was so easy to fall right back into this world and especially back into that addictive tension between Ana and Leon, even when they’re not seeing eye to eye.
This installment definitely felt like it was laying the groundwork for even bigger things to come, but it still had everything I loved from book one: more magic, more tension, and more character growth! I loved watching Ana step further into her power and strength during her training, becoming more confident, and really starting to embody the queen she’s meant to be.
And the dual POV from Leon? Absolutely loved it. Getting to see inside his head, learning about his past, and understanding why he carries the “nightmare” reputation added so much depth to his character and made me love him even more.
One of my favorite parts of this book was the found family element, as always, especially one specific scene at a ball where Ana’s friends and the other women stand by her side, back her up, and remind her how strong she really is with their support. It was powerful, exciting, and extremely fun to read.
And THAT ENDING. Zara, you did it again! I finished this book immediately wanting (needing) the next one because those last pages left me with so many questions and so much anticipation.
Tropes include:
❤️🔥 enemies-> reluctant allies-> lovers (again!)
❤️🔥 dual POV
❤️🔥 hidden powers
❤️🔥 secrets and lies
❤️🔥 found family
❤️🔥 celestial magic
❤️🔥 political intrigue
Overall, a fast-paced, magical, and satisfying sequel that left me desperate for more. I gave this book 4.5/5 ⭐and would definitely recommend to any fantasy reader who's a fan of books like Spark of the Everflame, Blood and Steel, or The Plated Prisoner series!
Thank you to Zara Storm and team for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
I absolutely devoured this second instalment in the series.
Ana continues to learn about her powers. It was refreshing to read how she had to train to further develop her powers and fighting prowess, not that she was already adept at such skills as I’ve seen in other books within this genre.
I loved the multiple POV’s, it was especially satisfying to read Leo’s POV.
What can I say about Leo, he actually completely grew on me. I’d completely misinterpreted him and it was pretty sobering to understand as the story progresses what shaped him into the being Ana meets.
The chemistry between the two was a perfect mix of romance and spice. Leo has some utterly swoon worthy moments, he is unabashedly himself with a fierceness to protect those close to him.
“Because I wouldn’t have been able to stop myself, not when every look from you sets me on fire. When every word from those pretty lips has me desperate to make you mine.”
The plot progressed at a fast pace and I was completely intrigued as to what will possibly happen in the next book after that ending!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ana continues to learn about her powers. It was refreshing to read how she had to train to further develop her powers and fighting prowess, not that she was already adept at such skills as I’ve seen in other books within this genre.
I loved the multiple POV’s, it was especially satisfying to read Leo’s POV.
What can I say about Leo, he actually completely grew on me. I’d completely misinterpreted him and it was pretty sobering to understand as the story progresses what shaped him into the being Ana meets.
The chemistry between the two was a perfect mix of romance and spice. Leo has some utterly swoon worthy moments, he is unabashedly himself with a fierceness to protect those close to him.
“Because I wouldn’t have been able to stop myself, not when every look from you sets me on fire. When every word from those pretty lips has me desperate to make you mine.”
The plot progressed at a fast pace and I was completely intrigued as to what will possibly happen in the next book after that ending!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2025
Ana and Leon and their friends (and enemies) (and maybe frenemies) pick up their journey from where we left them last, on the border of the human and fae lands.
With adventures, magical trainings, discoveries, double crosses and confusion, emotional growth, and so much more - we find our characters at a crossroads! This book felt very second book to me, not necessarily in a good or bad way, but just enough that I know we were doing a lot of the work to get ready for incoming excitement and big moments to come!
Ana and Leon are two very cautious to trust and strong willed characters, with a magnetic connection that pulls them together and pushes them away from each other (sounds like something that rhymes with ate to me!!). The world may not want them together, but together they might just have the power the world needs to overtake some big new (newly discovered that is) evil in the world!
Thanks so much to Zara Storm for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This was good, but I know book 3 is looking extra interesting after this one!!
With adventures, magical trainings, discoveries, double crosses and confusion, emotional growth, and so much more - we find our characters at a crossroads! This book felt very second book to me, not necessarily in a good or bad way, but just enough that I know we were doing a lot of the work to get ready for incoming excitement and big moments to come!
Ana and Leon are two very cautious to trust and strong willed characters, with a magnetic connection that pulls them together and pushes them away from each other (sounds like something that rhymes with ate to me!!). The world may not want them together, but together they might just have the power the world needs to overtake some big new (newly discovered that is) evil in the world!
Thanks so much to Zara Storm for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This was good, but I know book 3 is looking extra interesting after this one!!
November 30, 2025
Zara did an incredible job once again. Picked back up seamlessly from book 1. The development of the characters, the adventures, the romance were so good. I love how in fantasy you slowly get some answers and enlightenment but they just result in more questions and complexity. Do we now have prophecys in play?!? eeek!! I'm excited for book 3, that cliffhanger and the new plot points, I definitely need more!!
The ALC was great, same narrators as book 1. They really did a great job narrating. Hopefully they continue on.
The ALC was great, same narrators as book 1. They really did a great job narrating. Hopefully they continue on.
December 17, 2025
I liked this audiobook, but I didn’t love it. The story was interesting enough to keep me listening, but it didn’t fully pull me in.
The female narrator was great and fit the character well. However, I didn’t enjoy the male narrator as much because he sounded older than the character, which made it harder to stay immersed.
I do recommend this audiobook to fans of dark fantasy romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The female narrator was great and fit the character well. However, I didn’t enjoy the male narrator as much because he sounded older than the character, which made it harder to stay immersed.
I do recommend this audiobook to fans of dark fantasy romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2025
Leonidas had torn Ana's world apart. Now Leonidas may be the only one who can help Ana save it.
Ana Angevire was born to wear a crown, but her crown is soaked in blood.
For years Ana has been used, hunted, and betrayed and now she'd finished playing the pawn. Ana is Trova's true heir, now she's going to rise – and she'll be ruthless, unyielding, and she'll wield the celestial magic that's awakening in her veins. But, power that always demands some sort of price, and Ana, she's already burning beneath the weight of it.
Ana knows that in order to control what's inside of her, she's going to have to ally with the one person who shattered her.
Prince Leonidas Claerwyn is everything that Ava knows she should hate. He had left her for dead, completely broken her trust, and shattered her heart. And now he's back in her life and he's offering her a desperate bargain – he wants her to help him save his brother, and in return he'll help her master the magic that's threatening to destroy her.
Ana and Leon are bound together by necessity and forced into an uneasy partnership, but there's still something even darker that is tying them together with each breath they take. With each fight, every touch, passion simmers between Leon and Ana. But, at the same time, their old wounds are reopened. And the longer that Ana and Leon run from their past, the more it threatens to consume both of them.
Ana knows that the court wants her dead.
She also knows that there's a fanatic hunting her from the shadows.
And if Ana were to give in to Leon again, she knows that it wouldn't just be her body that burns this time – it would be the world.
Forged in Flame and Shadows is the 2nd book in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series A Dark Fantasy Romance by Zara Storm. Oh my, I have to say that Zara did it all over again with this series. From chapter 1 to the final world I just flew through this 2nd book in like two days. It was so great to return to the world of Ana and Leon, I loved dropping right back into the world of magic, chaos, and all the tension that makes this series so enthralling and just addictive.
This book had that 2nd book vibe, and it's not in a negative way. When I say that this book has 2nd book vibes I mean that Zara is laying the groundwork for something huge that's yet to come. In this book, you get to see a lot of training, scheming, and so much emotional growth. On top of that, we get just enough betrayal and secrets that keeps you reading and turning the pages, needing to know what's going to happen next at your full speed. It was stunning to watch Ana grow further into her powers and gain further strength. She never once just woke up as this bad-ass/kick-ass woman ready to take her throne. She does the work, works her butt off to be the best heroine she possibly can be.
I loved that Zara gave us Leon's POV in this book. We finally get to see his layers, his vulnerability, the fire within him. He's this protective flawed, completely obsessed with Ana. He manages to make your heart not only race but also ache at the same time. And their chemistry is stunning. I just love it. They have equal parts tension, angst, heat, and the emotional depth that you need for a relationship to grow and develop. They are truly enemies to lovers and this book gives you everything that you could want.
And Zara does justice to her side characters. She never once ignores them, she brings them to the light and lets them shine. We get great banter, loyalty, humour, and the perfect amount of drama. This is such a rich world that feels like it has been lived in and the political threads feel real and the fae tensions kept me enthralled.
And that ending, Zara knows how to knock out an ending. I'm just biting my nails waiting to know what's going to happen next and I know without a doubt that book 3 is going to be insane.
If you love magic, tension, romance, layered characters, a fantasy world that'll keep you guessing, banter, loyalty, humour, drama, and so much more then this series is for you. I can't recommend it enough. This is a great series and you need to read it. It's a phenomenal read and it's well written. And if you haven't already been reading books by Zara Storm then you need to start because she is a great author and she is worth enjoying.
Ana Angevire was born to wear a crown, but her crown is soaked in blood.
For years Ana has been used, hunted, and betrayed and now she'd finished playing the pawn. Ana is Trova's true heir, now she's going to rise – and she'll be ruthless, unyielding, and she'll wield the celestial magic that's awakening in her veins. But, power that always demands some sort of price, and Ana, she's already burning beneath the weight of it.
Ana knows that in order to control what's inside of her, she's going to have to ally with the one person who shattered her.
Prince Leonidas Claerwyn is everything that Ava knows she should hate. He had left her for dead, completely broken her trust, and shattered her heart. And now he's back in her life and he's offering her a desperate bargain – he wants her to help him save his brother, and in return he'll help her master the magic that's threatening to destroy her.
Ana and Leon are bound together by necessity and forced into an uneasy partnership, but there's still something even darker that is tying them together with each breath they take. With each fight, every touch, passion simmers between Leon and Ana. But, at the same time, their old wounds are reopened. And the longer that Ana and Leon run from their past, the more it threatens to consume both of them.
Ana knows that the court wants her dead.
She also knows that there's a fanatic hunting her from the shadows.
And if Ana were to give in to Leon again, she knows that it wouldn't just be her body that burns this time – it would be the world.
Forged in Flame and Shadows is the 2nd book in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series A Dark Fantasy Romance by Zara Storm. Oh my, I have to say that Zara did it all over again with this series. From chapter 1 to the final world I just flew through this 2nd book in like two days. It was so great to return to the world of Ana and Leon, I loved dropping right back into the world of magic, chaos, and all the tension that makes this series so enthralling and just addictive.
This book had that 2nd book vibe, and it's not in a negative way. When I say that this book has 2nd book vibes I mean that Zara is laying the groundwork for something huge that's yet to come. In this book, you get to see a lot of training, scheming, and so much emotional growth. On top of that, we get just enough betrayal and secrets that keeps you reading and turning the pages, needing to know what's going to happen next at your full speed. It was stunning to watch Ana grow further into her powers and gain further strength. She never once just woke up as this bad-ass/kick-ass woman ready to take her throne. She does the work, works her butt off to be the best heroine she possibly can be.
I loved that Zara gave us Leon's POV in this book. We finally get to see his layers, his vulnerability, the fire within him. He's this protective flawed, completely obsessed with Ana. He manages to make your heart not only race but also ache at the same time. And their chemistry is stunning. I just love it. They have equal parts tension, angst, heat, and the emotional depth that you need for a relationship to grow and develop. They are truly enemies to lovers and this book gives you everything that you could want.
And Zara does justice to her side characters. She never once ignores them, she brings them to the light and lets them shine. We get great banter, loyalty, humour, and the perfect amount of drama. This is such a rich world that feels like it has been lived in and the political threads feel real and the fae tensions kept me enthralled.
And that ending, Zara knows how to knock out an ending. I'm just biting my nails waiting to know what's going to happen next and I know without a doubt that book 3 is going to be insane.
If you love magic, tension, romance, layered characters, a fantasy world that'll keep you guessing, banter, loyalty, humour, drama, and so much more then this series is for you. I can't recommend it enough. This is a great series and you need to read it. It's a phenomenal read and it's well written. And if you haven't already been reading books by Zara Storm then you need to start because she is a great author and she is worth enjoying.
July 10, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
Thank you Zara Storm and her assistant, Ilaria for the e-arc copy! So so grateful for the opportunity to review this!
Forged in Flame and Shadow is the second book in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series, and starts off right where book 1 ended. Jumping back into Ana and Leon’s world was so smooth and effortless. Zara really popped off with this series - the plot, the characters, secrets being revealed, the deep diving into the world building, politics, the revenge and betrayal, the spice, action, adventure, magic, and the little twists throughout. This book has it all and it did not disappoint. Zara’s writing has a way to keep you on your toes and intrigued from the start to finish.
The pacing in this felt just right and had me speeding through this so fast. Forged in Flame and Shadow was definitely a solid sequel that focused on world building and the political system, both were easy to grasp and didn’t overwhelm me when reading but it’s definitely developing into something big for the next book.
The characters!! The characters in this were everything. Ana, our FMC, is powerful, badass, fierce, and is fueled by rage and a need for vengeance but is still growing into her powers and putting in the work to become stronger, which I love to see. Leon, our MMC, was everything I love in a mmc. I loved seeing him show some vulnerability and seeing some of his flaws because it didn’t take away from how dangerous he is. It was interesting to read more about his past as well, gives more of a read on his character. Leon is super protective of Ana and completely obsessed with her in a way that will have you giggling and kicking your feet. He has that classic “he falls first” written all over him. They had equal parts banter, tension, emotional depth, and some good spice. This book absolutely delivered on that. I just wish Leon was as dark as he was in the first book. I wanted to see more of the nightmare prince.
Also, Zara really knows how to craft those side characters because they bring some great banter, drama, loyalty, and humour to the book. They really hook you in and keep you invested. And I loved dots, Ana’s new friend. So cute and added some charm to the story!
I had so much fun reading this one and I can’t wait for the third one, especially after that ending!! Highly recommend this series!
Tropes/What to expect:
🗡️ Fae x Human Fantasy Romance
🔥 Forced Proximity
🗡️ Touch Her and Die
🔥 Open door spice
🗡️ Forbidden magic
🔥 Multiple POVs
🗡️ “Who did this to you”
🔥 Betrayal, Revenge, Grief, Vengeance
🗡️ Found Family
Thank you Zara Storm and her assistant, Ilaria for the e-arc copy! So so grateful for the opportunity to review this!
Forged in Flame and Shadow is the second book in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series, and starts off right where book 1 ended. Jumping back into Ana and Leon’s world was so smooth and effortless. Zara really popped off with this series - the plot, the characters, secrets being revealed, the deep diving into the world building, politics, the revenge and betrayal, the spice, action, adventure, magic, and the little twists throughout. This book has it all and it did not disappoint. Zara’s writing has a way to keep you on your toes and intrigued from the start to finish.
The pacing in this felt just right and had me speeding through this so fast. Forged in Flame and Shadow was definitely a solid sequel that focused on world building and the political system, both were easy to grasp and didn’t overwhelm me when reading but it’s definitely developing into something big for the next book.
The characters!! The characters in this were everything. Ana, our FMC, is powerful, badass, fierce, and is fueled by rage and a need for vengeance but is still growing into her powers and putting in the work to become stronger, which I love to see. Leon, our MMC, was everything I love in a mmc. I loved seeing him show some vulnerability and seeing some of his flaws because it didn’t take away from how dangerous he is. It was interesting to read more about his past as well, gives more of a read on his character. Leon is super protective of Ana and completely obsessed with her in a way that will have you giggling and kicking your feet. He has that classic “he falls first” written all over him. They had equal parts banter, tension, emotional depth, and some good spice. This book absolutely delivered on that. I just wish Leon was as dark as he was in the first book. I wanted to see more of the nightmare prince.
Also, Zara really knows how to craft those side characters because they bring some great banter, drama, loyalty, and humour to the book. They really hook you in and keep you invested. And I loved dots, Ana’s new friend. So cute and added some charm to the story!
I had so much fun reading this one and I can’t wait for the third one, especially after that ending!! Highly recommend this series!
Tropes/What to expect:
🗡️ Fae x Human Fantasy Romance
🔥 Forced Proximity
🗡️ Touch Her and Die
🔥 Open door spice
🗡️ Forbidden magic
🔥 Multiple POVs
🗡️ “Who did this to you”
🔥 Betrayal, Revenge, Grief, Vengeance
🗡️ Found Family
June 4, 2026
>>I received the boxset of this series from Netgalley but I'm going to be reviewing each book separately<<
I definitely enjoyed this book a bit more than the last one, but Ana is still acting really stupid for a lot of this story and that really annoyed me. Fortunately, more seems to start happening with our group this time and it was enough to keep me interested.
Picking up right from where we ended, Ana is determined to continue hating Leon for what he did no matter what she learns of his circumstances or reasons. But even she can see that it's going to be a losing battle. Leon convinces her to try to learn more control of her magic from a Fae who also has the same kind. Of course Ana is suspicious of Leon's true motives with this but she does see it as a good opportunity to get stronger for when she can make her great escape. She was supposed to be safe where Leon takes her, but when she is attacked and could have died, they realize there's more danger than they expected. But this provides Leon with the opportunity to tell Ana the truth of his actions without breaking his vow to the one it involves. Understanding his situation doesn't make her automatically forgive him, but she is starting to see, piece by piece, everything that makes Leon Leon and why he does what he does.
Next stop is the Fae palace. The plan was to sneak in, do what they came to do, and get out. Which goes exactly as you would expect it to. Badly. Leon is not exactly on the best of terms with his grandfather who is the king and dear old grandpa has it out for Ana from start. Trapping her with words and Fae contracts she didn't even know she was making. Jealously eats at Ana when she meets Leon's betrothed, but everything that goes down with her leads up to Leon getting rid of the biggest reason Ana refuses to be with him again, so that worked out anyway. Ana is put thru a brutal test to prove that she can do what she came there to do in the first place, and because of a new friend she made in a mystical creature, she comes out successful and better learns how to control one of her magics. Which is good because now she has even less doubts she can do what Leon has brought her all the way there to try.
The group has to sneak out in the middle of the night before Leon can be ordered to stay, and the plan is to make their way to Ana's old guard's house and see if he can help with her overthrowing her aunt. Surprise surprise when they're ambushed by a rebel group that Leon despises with his entire being for murdering his parents. But they've come for Ana because their leader wants to meet her. Turns out there is more to this rebel leader (and her father) than Ana ever expected. And this guy is determined to overthrow the government and place Ana back on top. Stuff happens with this group, a mission is planned, and a big fight ensues. In the end, they are successful but it's short lived because the whole thing was clearly a trap. And Ana fell right into it. Leaving Leon positively furious.
I definitely enjoyed this book a bit more than the last one, but Ana is still acting really stupid for a lot of this story and that really annoyed me. Fortunately, more seems to start happening with our group this time and it was enough to keep me interested.
Picking up right from where we ended, Ana is determined to continue hating Leon for what he did no matter what she learns of his circumstances or reasons. But even she can see that it's going to be a losing battle. Leon convinces her to try to learn more control of her magic from a Fae who also has the same kind. Of course Ana is suspicious of Leon's true motives with this but she does see it as a good opportunity to get stronger for when she can make her great escape. She was supposed to be safe where Leon takes her, but when she is attacked and could have died, they realize there's more danger than they expected. But this provides Leon with the opportunity to tell Ana the truth of his actions without breaking his vow to the one it involves. Understanding his situation doesn't make her automatically forgive him, but she is starting to see, piece by piece, everything that makes Leon Leon and why he does what he does.
Next stop is the Fae palace. The plan was to sneak in, do what they came to do, and get out. Which goes exactly as you would expect it to. Badly. Leon is not exactly on the best of terms with his grandfather who is the king and dear old grandpa has it out for Ana from start. Trapping her with words and Fae contracts she didn't even know she was making. Jealously eats at Ana when she meets Leon's betrothed, but everything that goes down with her leads up to Leon getting rid of the biggest reason Ana refuses to be with him again, so that worked out anyway. Ana is put thru a brutal test to prove that she can do what she came there to do in the first place, and because of a new friend she made in a mystical creature, she comes out successful and better learns how to control one of her magics. Which is good because now she has even less doubts she can do what Leon has brought her all the way there to try.
The group has to sneak out in the middle of the night before Leon can be ordered to stay, and the plan is to make their way to Ana's old guard's house and see if he can help with her overthrowing her aunt. Surprise surprise when they're ambushed by a rebel group that Leon despises with his entire being for murdering his parents. But they've come for Ana because their leader wants to meet her. Turns out there is more to this rebel leader (and her father) than Ana ever expected. And this guy is determined to overthrow the government and place Ana back on top. Stuff happens with this group, a mission is planned, and a big fight ensues. In the end, they are successful but it's short lived because the whole thing was clearly a trap. And Ana fell right into it. Leaving Leon positively furious.
July 9, 2025
When I read the first book in the fantastic series Fated to the Sun and Stars by Zara Storm I was completely blown away by that book. And I waited eagerly for the sequel. Now that I have read that book, Forged in Flame and Shadow, I want the third book now! What I am going to do now after that cliffhanger?!
Forged in Flame and Shadow picks up after the events in the first book, Curse of the Sun and Stars. Ana was taken to the Fae realm against her will and she hates Leon for that. She was starting to believe their relationship was doing great, but he betrayed her, even though he had his own agenda doing what he did. In this book we learn what that is. There are dangerous people who want to capture Ana and when her life is in danger, Leon tells her what he wants her to do: save his brother.
This book was amazing! I could not stop reading. I was hooked from the very first page. So much is happening: danger, magic, betrayal, romance, and many twists and turns. The writing style is fast paced and the world-building and magic system are so well developed. In this book we have multiple POVs and that I loved. Ana is an amazing and fantastic character: she is fierce, determined and very loyal. Leon is also great, and they have a great chemistry, despite Ana not really trusting him anymore. I just loved Leon, he fell very hard for Ana, but as he had to do everything to save his brother, he had no choice. All though the book I hoped things would work out for them. The side characters are important and come across really great.
At the end I though everything was going well, but then Zara Storm had to write this huge cliffhanger! I could not believe what I read and now I need book three!!
Fated to the Sun and Stars is a super fantastic series, with a great writing style, a fantastic plot and story-line, characters who just leap off the pages, once you start reading you will want to read until you reach the end and then you’ll want the next book. This series has become one of my all-time favourite series. Do start with Curse of the Sun and Stars and then Forged in Flame and Shadow.
Highly, Highly recommended!
Forged in Flame and Shadow picks up after the events in the first book, Curse of the Sun and Stars. Ana was taken to the Fae realm against her will and she hates Leon for that. She was starting to believe their relationship was doing great, but he betrayed her, even though he had his own agenda doing what he did. In this book we learn what that is. There are dangerous people who want to capture Ana and when her life is in danger, Leon tells her what he wants her to do: save his brother.
This book was amazing! I could not stop reading. I was hooked from the very first page. So much is happening: danger, magic, betrayal, romance, and many twists and turns. The writing style is fast paced and the world-building and magic system are so well developed. In this book we have multiple POVs and that I loved. Ana is an amazing and fantastic character: she is fierce, determined and very loyal. Leon is also great, and they have a great chemistry, despite Ana not really trusting him anymore. I just loved Leon, he fell very hard for Ana, but as he had to do everything to save his brother, he had no choice. All though the book I hoped things would work out for them. The side characters are important and come across really great.
At the end I though everything was going well, but then Zara Storm had to write this huge cliffhanger! I could not believe what I read and now I need book three!!
Fated to the Sun and Stars is a super fantastic series, with a great writing style, a fantastic plot and story-line, characters who just leap off the pages, once you start reading you will want to read until you reach the end and then you’ll want the next book. This series has become one of my all-time favourite series. Do start with Curse of the Sun and Stars and then Forged in Flame and Shadow.
Highly, Highly recommended!
August 19, 2025
Thank you to Zara Storm and NetGalley for letting me read this book as an e-ARC!
Zara Storm once again delivers a quality romantasy with this book. It picks up seamlessly where A Curse of Sun and Stars left off and does a lot more world-building than I think the first book did. That being said, I think that there is less action and the storyline is slightly less compelling for that reason. However, you gotta build somewhere and I think this is where Zara decided she needed to do that.
I do think that this book experiences what a lot of romantasy books do: the FMC, coming into her power in the beginning of the series, starts to act like she is invincible/that her powers can overcome almost anything and therefore begins making decisions against the advice of more experienced, more skilled characters, taking more and bigger risks and endangering herself and others until it inevitably finds her in a situation detrimental to her or others. This was the case with Ana here; while she is definitely stronger and gaining a lot of confidence with her powers and abilities, she fails to see that they are not the end all, be all and begins jumping into things too quickly for her--or her team's--own good. Additionally, Ana's desperation for family, while understandable, also causes her o take risks that she might not have otherwise and compromises her ability to make clear-headed decisions. As a reader, I definitely got frustrated with some of Ana's line of thinking and decisions in this book.
Leon continues to prioritize Ana's well-being and definitely lets his feelings for her influence more of his decisions in this book. It was nice to seem him realize and come to terms with his feelings for her without selfishly confronting her with them right before a high-stakes mission, even if this realization makes him even more nervous about the execution of the mission.
This book leaves you on a cliffhanger but not one where you'll be upset by it; you'll just want the next book in your hands right now. Lucky for us, the third installment is set to come out next month. A solid sequel and definitely looking forward to Book 3. Four stars from me :)
Zara Storm once again delivers a quality romantasy with this book. It picks up seamlessly where A Curse of Sun and Stars left off and does a lot more world-building than I think the first book did. That being said, I think that there is less action and the storyline is slightly less compelling for that reason. However, you gotta build somewhere and I think this is where Zara decided she needed to do that.
I do think that this book experiences what a lot of romantasy books do: the FMC, coming into her power in the beginning of the series, starts to act like she is invincible/that her powers can overcome almost anything and therefore begins making decisions against the advice of more experienced, more skilled characters, taking more and bigger risks and endangering herself and others until it inevitably finds her in a situation detrimental to her or others. This was the case with Ana here; while she is definitely stronger and gaining a lot of confidence with her powers and abilities, she fails to see that they are not the end all, be all and begins jumping into things too quickly for her--or her team's--own good. Additionally, Ana's desperation for family, while understandable, also causes her o take risks that she might not have otherwise and compromises her ability to make clear-headed decisions. As a reader, I definitely got frustrated with some of Ana's line of thinking and decisions in this book.
Leon continues to prioritize Ana's well-being and definitely lets his feelings for her influence more of his decisions in this book. It was nice to seem him realize and come to terms with his feelings for her without selfishly confronting her with them right before a high-stakes mission, even if this realization makes him even more nervous about the execution of the mission.
This book leaves you on a cliffhanger but not one where you'll be upset by it; you'll just want the next book in your hands right now. Lucky for us, the third installment is set to come out next month. A solid sequel and definitely looking forward to Book 3. Four stars from me :)
December 3, 2025
If you are a sucker for action-packed romantasy featuring fae-human tension, found family, and the glorious “he falls first” trope, Forged in Flame by Zara Storm needs to be on your radar. Narrated beautifully by Jessie Elwyn and Christopher Andrews, this second installment in the Fated to the Sun and Stars series picks up right where the previous cliffhanger left us, dropping the reader straight back into the chaos.
While the story definitely carries that transitional “second book energy”—laying the groundwork with training sequences, schemes, and political intrigue—the pacing remains spot-on. I was hooked from the very first page and flew through the story in just a couple of days.
One of the highlights is watching Ana continue to evolve. She doesn’t just wake up suddenly powerful; she puts in the work, earning her strength physically and mentally, which makes her journey so satisfying.
However, the real game-changer here is the introduction of Leon’s POV. Getting inside his head completely shifted my perspective on him. He offers layers of vulnerability and fire, embodying that classic “he falls first” energy. He is protective, flawed, and completely obsessed with Ana in a way that makes the enemies-to-lovers tension sizzle. The chemistry is palpable, balancing heat with genuine emotional depth.
Beyond the main pair, the side characters shine with great banter and loyalty, making the world feel rich and lived-in. I particularly enjoyed getting more breadcrumbs regarding the overarching Zealot, Temple, and Grand Bearer plotlines.
The audiobook experience was truly elevated by Elwyn and Andrews; their performances were so immersive I felt like I was right there in the middle of the magic. While I appreciated the handy glossary in the back, I am still holding out hope for a map in the future to help navigate the expanding world. After that ending, I am dying to know what happens next and am definitely sticking around for the chaos of book three.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While the story definitely carries that transitional “second book energy”—laying the groundwork with training sequences, schemes, and political intrigue—the pacing remains spot-on. I was hooked from the very first page and flew through the story in just a couple of days.
One of the highlights is watching Ana continue to evolve. She doesn’t just wake up suddenly powerful; she puts in the work, earning her strength physically and mentally, which makes her journey so satisfying.
However, the real game-changer here is the introduction of Leon’s POV. Getting inside his head completely shifted my perspective on him. He offers layers of vulnerability and fire, embodying that classic “he falls first” energy. He is protective, flawed, and completely obsessed with Ana in a way that makes the enemies-to-lovers tension sizzle. The chemistry is palpable, balancing heat with genuine emotional depth.
Beyond the main pair, the side characters shine with great banter and loyalty, making the world feel rich and lived-in. I particularly enjoyed getting more breadcrumbs regarding the overarching Zealot, Temple, and Grand Bearer plotlines.
The audiobook experience was truly elevated by Elwyn and Andrews; their performances were so immersive I felt like I was right there in the middle of the magic. While I appreciated the handy glossary in the back, I am still holding out hope for a map in the future to help navigate the expanding world. After that ending, I am dying to know what happens next and am definitely sticking around for the chaos of book three.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2026
There are audiobooks that slip quietly into your ears, and then there are the ones that take hold, tilt your focus, and refuse to let go. Forged in Flame and Shadow belongs firmly in the second category. It is immersive, addictive, and just a little bit ruthless with your time.
Narrated by Jessie Elwyn and Christopher Andrews, the audio quality is excellent. The production is clean and easy to listen to for long stretches, which matters when you suddenly realise you have been listening for hours without a break. Elwyn stands out in particular. There is a depth and steadiness to her performance that carries the emotional weight of the story beautifully. Andrews complements her well, creating a balanced and engaging listening experience.
If you love action packed romantasy with fae and human tension, found family, and that irresistible he falls first dynamic, this delivers in every sense. This second instalment drops you straight back into the story without hesitation. No gentle reintroduction, no easing in. Just magic, danger, and a plot already in motion.
The pacing is one of its strongest elements. It flows effortlessly, with enough momentum to keep you listening well past the point you planned to stop. It is the kind of audiobook where one more chapter turns into five.
This is very much a second book in the best possible way. You can feel the groundwork being laid for something bigger. The Zealot, the Temple, and the Grand Bearer threads are expanding, and we are finally getting more insight into the overarching plot. It builds without dragging, layering tension and intrigue in a way that keeps you fully invested.
Morgana’s growth is a highlight. She is not handed strength overnight. She works for it, physically and mentally, and that progression feels real and satisfying to witness.
Leon, on the other hand, is already completely gone. Utterly devoted. The he falls first energy is strong here, woven through every interaction and every charged moment between them. The romance continues to simmer rather than explode, and that restraint makes the tension all the more compelling.
The supporting cast deserves its own moment. The found family dynamic adds warmth, humour, and depth, balancing the heavier elements of the story. The banter lands, the loyalty feels genuine, and the world itself feels rich and lived in. Even the political threads and fae tensions hold your attention rather than fading into the background.
And that ending.
Sharp, deliberate, and just cruel enough to leave you wanting more
Thank you to High Gravity Productions for sending me this incredible audiobook!
Narrated by Jessie Elwyn and Christopher Andrews, the audio quality is excellent. The production is clean and easy to listen to for long stretches, which matters when you suddenly realise you have been listening for hours without a break. Elwyn stands out in particular. There is a depth and steadiness to her performance that carries the emotional weight of the story beautifully. Andrews complements her well, creating a balanced and engaging listening experience.
If you love action packed romantasy with fae and human tension, found family, and that irresistible he falls first dynamic, this delivers in every sense. This second instalment drops you straight back into the story without hesitation. No gentle reintroduction, no easing in. Just magic, danger, and a plot already in motion.
The pacing is one of its strongest elements. It flows effortlessly, with enough momentum to keep you listening well past the point you planned to stop. It is the kind of audiobook where one more chapter turns into five.
This is very much a second book in the best possible way. You can feel the groundwork being laid for something bigger. The Zealot, the Temple, and the Grand Bearer threads are expanding, and we are finally getting more insight into the overarching plot. It builds without dragging, layering tension and intrigue in a way that keeps you fully invested.
Morgana’s growth is a highlight. She is not handed strength overnight. She works for it, physically and mentally, and that progression feels real and satisfying to witness.
Leon, on the other hand, is already completely gone. Utterly devoted. The he falls first energy is strong here, woven through every interaction and every charged moment between them. The romance continues to simmer rather than explode, and that restraint makes the tension all the more compelling.
The supporting cast deserves its own moment. The found family dynamic adds warmth, humour, and depth, balancing the heavier elements of the story. The banter lands, the loyalty feels genuine, and the world itself feels rich and lived in. Even the political threads and fae tensions hold your attention rather than fading into the background.
And that ending.
Sharp, deliberate, and just cruel enough to leave you wanting more
Thank you to High Gravity Productions for sending me this incredible audiobook!
September 3, 2025
𝑅𝒶𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔: 🥀🥀🥀🥀 ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ 𝟻 ᴇɴᴄʜᴀɴᴛᴇᴅ ʀᴏsᴇs
𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌:
ʜᴜɢᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇʟᴀʏ ᴘᴜʙʟɪsʜɪɴɢ ғᴏʀ ᴘʀᴏᴠɪᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜɪs ᴇ-ᴀʀᴄ!
𝐹𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝐹𝓁𝒶𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓌 ɪs ᴀ ɢʀɪᴘᴘɪɴɢ ᴅᴀʀᴋ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴇʟᴠᴇs ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇᴍᴇs ᴏғ ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴇᴅᴇᴍᴘᴛɪᴏɴ. ᴀɴᴀ, ᴛʜᴇ ʀɪɢʜᴛғᴜʟ ʜᴇɪʀ ᴛᴏ ᴛʀᴏᴠᴀ's ᴛʜʀᴏɴᴇ, ʜᴀs ᴇɴᴅᴜʀᴇᴅ ᴀ ʟɪғᴇ ᴏғ ᴍᴀɴɪᴘᴜʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴇᴄᴇɪᴛ. ɴᴏᴡ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇɴᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʜᴇʀ ᴄᴇʟᴇsᴛɪᴀʟ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, sʜᴇ ᴍᴜsᴛ ᴄᴏɴғʀᴏɴᴛ ʜᴇʀ ᴘᴀsᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴀɴ ᴡʜᴏ ᴏɴᴄᴇ sʜᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅ ʜᴇʀ ᴛʀᴜsᴛ. ʟᴇᴏɴ, sᴇᴇᴋɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɪᴅ ᴛᴏ sᴀᴠᴇ ʜɪs ʙʀᴏᴛʜᴇʀ, ʙᴇᴄᴏᴍᴇs ʙᴏᴛʜ ᴀɴ ᴀʟʟʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀɪɴ sʜᴇ ᴡɪsʜᴇs ᴛᴏ ғᴏʀɢᴇᴛ. ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏ ɪs ғʀᴀᴜɢʜᴛ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴅᴀɴɢᴇʀ, ᴀs ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs ᴄʟᴏsᴇ ɪɴ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ᴢᴇᴀʟᴏᴛ ʜᴜɴᴛs ᴛʜᴇᴍ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜᴇ sʜᴀᴅᴏᴡs. ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴇɴsɪᴏɴ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴀɴᴀ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴇᴏɴ ɪs ᴘᴀʟᴘᴀʙʟᴇ, ᴇᴠᴏʟᴠɪɴɢ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴅɪsᴛʀᴜsᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx ʙᴏɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴄʜᴀʟʟᴇɴɢᴇs ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴs ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴏʏᴀʟᴛɪᴇs. sᴛᴏʀᴍ ᴍᴀsᴛᴇʀғᴜʟʟʏ ɪɴᴛᴇʀᴛᴡɪɴᴇs ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ, ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ, ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ ᴀ ᴛᴀʟᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ's ʙᴏᴛʜ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ-ᴡʀᴇɴᴄʜɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇxʜɪʟᴀʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ. ғᴀɴs ᴏғ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴀʏ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs ᴀɴᴅ ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ, sʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜʀɴ ʀᴇʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴsʜɪᴘs ᴡɪʟʟ ғɪɴᴅ ᴛʜɪs sᴇǫᴜᴇʟ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘᴇʟʟɪɴɢ ᴀᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ ᴀɴᴅ sᴛᴀʀs sᴇʀɪᴇs.
𝒯𝓇𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓈 & 𝐸𝓁𝑒𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓈:
✨ ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs-ᴛᴏ-ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs
✨ ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
✨ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴀʏ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs
✨ ᴄᴇʟᴇsᴛɪᴀʟ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ
✨ ʀᴏʏᴀʟ ɪɴᴛʀɪɢᴜᴇ
✨ ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ʀᴇᴠᴇɴɢᴇ, ɢʀɪᴇғ, ᴠᴇɴɢᴇᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ ғᴏʀʙɪᴅᴅᴇɴ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ
✨ ᴢᴇᴀʟᴏᴛ ᴀɴᴛᴀɢᴏɴɪsᴛ
✨ sʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜʀɴ ʀᴇʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴsʜɪᴘ
✨ ғᴀᴇ x ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅɪᴇ
✨ ᴏᴘᴇɴ ᴅᴏᴏʀ sᴘɪᴄᴇ
𝐹𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝒹𝒾𝒸𝓉: 𝐹𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝐹𝓁𝒶𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓌 ɪs ᴀ ᴄᴀᴘᴛɪᴠᴀᴛɪɴɢ ᴄᴏɴᴛɪɴᴜᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ ᴀɴᴅ sᴛᴀʀs sᴇʀɪᴇs, ᴏғғᴇʀɪɴɢ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴀ ʙʟᴇɴᴅ ᴏғ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴇғɪᴇs ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴅᴅs. ᴢᴀʀᴀ sᴛᴏʀᴍ's ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ-ʙᴜɪʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ᴅᴇᴠᴇʟᴏᴘᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴇɴsᴜʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ sᴛᴀɴᴅs ᴏᴜᴛ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ɢᴇɴʀᴇ. ʜɪɢʜʟʏ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅᴇᴅ ғᴏʀ ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs ᴀɴᴅ ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏs.
ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ!
𝒜𝓈𝒽𝓁𝑒𝓎
ʙᴏᴏᴋsᴛᴀɢʀᴀᴍ: @ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ
ᴡᴡᴡ.ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ.ᴄᴏᴍ
𝑅𝑒𝓋𝒾𝑒𝓌:
ʜᴜɢᴇ ᴛʜᴀɴᴋ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇʟᴀʏ ᴘᴜʙʟɪsʜɪɴɢ ғᴏʀ ᴘʀᴏᴠɪᴅɪɴɢ ᴍᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴛʜɪs ᴇ-ᴀʀᴄ!
𝐹𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝐹𝓁𝒶𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓌 ɪs ᴀ ɢʀɪᴘᴘɪɴɢ ᴅᴀʀᴋ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴇʟᴠᴇs ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇᴍᴇs ᴏғ ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ᴘᴏᴡᴇʀ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴇᴅᴇᴍᴘᴛɪᴏɴ. ᴀɴᴀ, ᴛʜᴇ ʀɪɢʜᴛғᴜʟ ʜᴇɪʀ ᴛᴏ ᴛʀᴏᴠᴀ's ᴛʜʀᴏɴᴇ, ʜᴀs ᴇɴᴅᴜʀᴇᴅ ᴀ ʟɪғᴇ ᴏғ ᴍᴀɴɪᴘᴜʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴇᴄᴇɪᴛ. ɴᴏᴡ ᴀᴡᴀᴋᴇɴᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ʜᴇʀ ᴄᴇʟᴇsᴛɪᴀʟ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, sʜᴇ ᴍᴜsᴛ ᴄᴏɴғʀᴏɴᴛ ʜᴇʀ ᴘᴀsᴛ ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴀɴ ᴡʜᴏ ᴏɴᴄᴇ sʜᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅ ʜᴇʀ ᴛʀᴜsᴛ. ʟᴇᴏɴ, sᴇᴇᴋɪɴɢ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɪᴅ ᴛᴏ sᴀᴠᴇ ʜɪs ʙʀᴏᴛʜᴇʀ, ʙᴇᴄᴏᴍᴇs ʙᴏᴛʜ ᴀɴ ᴀʟʟʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʀᴇᴍɪɴᴅᴇʀ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ᴘᴀɪɴ sʜᴇ ᴡɪsʜᴇs ᴛᴏ ғᴏʀɢᴇᴛ. ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏ ɪs ғʀᴀᴜɢʜᴛ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴅᴀɴɢᴇʀ, ᴀs ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs ᴄʟᴏsᴇ ɪɴ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ᴢᴇᴀʟᴏᴛ ʜᴜɴᴛs ᴛʜᴇᴍ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴛʜᴇ sʜᴀᴅᴏᴡs. ᴛʜᴇ ᴛᴇɴsɪᴏɴ ʙᴇᴛᴡᴇᴇɴ ᴀɴᴀ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴇᴏɴ ɪs ᴘᴀʟᴘᴀʙʟᴇ, ᴇᴠᴏʟᴠɪɴɢ ғʀᴏᴍ ᴅɪsᴛʀᴜsᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx ʙᴏɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴄʜᴀʟʟᴇɴɢᴇs ᴛʜᴇɪʀ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴs ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴏʏᴀʟᴛɪᴇs. sᴛᴏʀᴍ ᴍᴀsᴛᴇʀғᴜʟʟʏ ɪɴᴛᴇʀᴛᴡɪɴᴇs ᴀᴄᴛɪᴏɴ, ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ, ᴄʀᴇᴀᴛɪɴɢ ᴀ ᴛᴀʟᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ's ʙᴏᴛʜ ʜᴇᴀʀᴛ-ᴡʀᴇɴᴄʜɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ᴇxʜɪʟᴀʀᴀᴛɪɴɢ. ғᴀɴs ᴏғ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴀʏ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs ᴀɴᴅ ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ, sʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜʀɴ ʀᴇʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴsʜɪᴘs ᴡɪʟʟ ғɪɴᴅ ᴛʜɪs sᴇǫᴜᴇʟ ᴀ ᴄᴏᴍᴘᴇʟʟɪɴɢ ᴀᴅᴅɪᴛɪᴏɴ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ ᴀɴᴅ sᴛᴀʀs sᴇʀɪᴇs.
𝒯𝓇𝑜𝓅𝑒𝓈 & 𝐸𝓁𝑒𝓂𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓈:
✨ ᴇɴᴇᴍɪᴇs-ᴛᴏ-ʟᴏᴠᴇʀs
✨ ғᴏʀᴄᴇᴅ ᴘʀᴏxɪᴍɪᴛʏ
✨ ᴍᴏʀᴀʟʟʏ ɢʀᴀʏ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs
✨ ᴄᴇʟᴇsᴛɪᴀʟ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ
✨ ʀᴏʏᴀʟ ɪɴᴛʀɪɢᴜᴇ
✨ ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ʀᴇᴠᴇɴɢᴇ, ɢʀɪᴇғ, ᴠᴇɴɢᴇᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ ғᴏʀʙɪᴅᴅᴇɴ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ
✨ ᴢᴇᴀʟᴏᴛ ᴀɴᴛᴀɢᴏɴɪsᴛ
✨ sʟᴏᴡ-ʙᴜʀɴ ʀᴇʟᴀᴛɪᴏɴsʜɪᴘ
✨ ғᴀᴇ x ʜᴜᴍᴀɴ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ
✨ ᴛᴏᴜᴄʜ ʜᴇʀ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅɪᴇ
✨ ᴏᴘᴇɴ ᴅᴏᴏʀ sᴘɪᴄᴇ
𝐹𝒾𝓃𝒶𝓁 𝓋𝑒𝓇𝒹𝒾𝒸𝓉: 𝐹𝑜𝓇𝑔𝑒𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝐹𝓁𝒶𝓂𝑒 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒮𝒽𝒶𝒹𝑜𝓌 ɪs ᴀ ᴄᴀᴘᴛɪᴠᴀᴛɪɴɢ ᴄᴏɴᴛɪɴᴜᴀᴛɪᴏɴ ᴏғ ᴛʜᴇ ғᴀᴛᴇᴅ ᴛᴏ ᴛʜᴇ sᴜɴ ᴀɴᴅ sᴛᴀʀs sᴇʀɪᴇs, ᴏғғᴇʀɪɴɢ ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀs ᴀ ʙʟᴇɴᴅ ᴏғ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄ, ʙᴇᴛʀᴀʏᴀʟ, ᴀɴᴅ ᴀ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴅᴇғɪᴇs ᴛʜᴇ ᴏᴅᴅs. ᴢᴀʀᴀ sᴛᴏʀᴍ's ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ-ʙᴜɪʟᴅɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀ ᴅᴇᴠᴇʟᴏᴘᴍᴇɴᴛ ᴇɴsᴜʀᴇ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴛʜɪs ʙᴏᴏᴋ sᴛᴀɴᴅs ᴏᴜᴛ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅᴀʀᴋ ғᴀɴᴛᴀsʏ ʀᴏᴍᴀɴᴄᴇ ɢᴇɴʀᴇ. ʜɪɢʜʟʏ ʀᴇᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴅᴇᴅ ғᴏʀ ᴛʜᴏsᴇ ᴡʜᴏ ᴇɴᴊᴏʏ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇx ᴄʜᴀʀᴀᴄᴛᴇʀs ᴀɴᴅ ɪɴᴛᴇɴsᴇ ᴇᴍᴏᴛɪᴏɴᴀʟ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏs.
ʜᴀᴘᴘʏ ʀᴇᴀᴅɪɴɢ!
𝒜𝓈𝒽𝓁𝑒𝓎
ʙᴏᴏᴋsᴛᴀɢʀᴀᴍ: @ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ
ᴡᴡᴡ.ᴛʜᴇᴛᴀᴛᴛᴇʀᴇᴅᴘᴀɢᴇ.ᴄᴏᴍ
July 10, 2025
“All I need is to keep looking into those hazel eyes. As long as I have those, I have a shred of peace in this fucked-up world.”
WOW!!! Is all I can say after that ending.
We pick up right where things left off in book one, Ana and Tira are still plotting to get away from Leon and the rest of the fae. But does Ana really want to leave them or is she upset more truths have been kept from her?
Working past those feelings as they arrive at the Lyceum for Ana’s training she learns why Leon is so adamant about her coming to the palace. She just might be his saving grace.
After their time in the fae palace they run into a rebellion and who is their leader is someone they all were not expecting.
With the Temple still hunting down any Solari the time to work together is now. And boy do things blow up.
I freaking loved this book! The tension between Ana and Leon is my favorite thing in this story, other than the amazing powers everyone has!
I have to point out how Zara manages to give us tension with a teensy bit of miscommunication but fixes it immediately. Bravo!👏
Miscommunication is my least favorite trope, but I have to admit some of the tension and banter built from it can work when done right.
The training Ana goes through and meeting her new “friend” were some of my favorite bits. I do hope to see more of Leon’s family in the next book!
Also the found family bit I was like 😱
Sophos parts in this story absolutely wrecked me. I feel so bad for him and his family, I’m curious to see what he does next.
With all that happened in book 2 I can only imagine how much of a roller coaster book 3 is going to be. And I am so here for it.
Thank you Zara for my eARC copy 🫶🏼
I adore everything you write 🥰
WOW!!! Is all I can say after that ending.
We pick up right where things left off in book one, Ana and Tira are still plotting to get away from Leon and the rest of the fae. But does Ana really want to leave them or is she upset more truths have been kept from her?
Working past those feelings as they arrive at the Lyceum for Ana’s training she learns why Leon is so adamant about her coming to the palace. She just might be his saving grace.
After their time in the fae palace they run into a rebellion and who is their leader is someone they all were not expecting.
With the Temple still hunting down any Solari the time to work together is now. And boy do things blow up.
I freaking loved this book! The tension between Ana and Leon is my favorite thing in this story, other than the amazing powers everyone has!
I have to point out how Zara manages to give us tension with a teensy bit of miscommunication but fixes it immediately. Bravo!👏
Miscommunication is my least favorite trope, but I have to admit some of the tension and banter built from it can work when done right.
The training Ana goes through and meeting her new “friend” were some of my favorite bits. I do hope to see more of Leon’s family in the next book!
Also the found family bit I was like 😱
Sophos parts in this story absolutely wrecked me. I feel so bad for him and his family, I’m curious to see what he does next.
With all that happened in book 2 I can only imagine how much of a roller coaster book 3 is going to be. And I am so here for it.
Thank you Zara for my eARC copy 🫶🏼
I adore everything you write 🥰
July 15, 2025
Big thank you to Zara and Ilaria for the eARC of Forged in Flame and Shadow!
This sequel was everything I hoped for. It picks up right where book one ended and within a few pages I was fully back in Ana and Leon’s world which I LOVE. The story had it all as usual magic, secrets, revenge, tension, romance and so many twists that kept my eyes glued to the page or screen😂
Zara’s writing is so engaging and easy to fall into. The pacing was everything you could wish for. The world building and political plot really expand in this book and sometimes this can be confusing but it’s explained perfectly and I never felt lost while reading it. It just made the story even more exciting and set the stage for what’s clearly going to be a huge third book.
The characters truly made this shine. Ana is a strong, fiery main character who’s still learning and growing. Leon is intense and protective and his softer moments made me love him even more than I already did. He’s completely devoted to Ana and their connection had a great balance of banter, tension, emotion and of course, spice.
If I had one tiny wish, it would be to see more of Leon’s darker side that we got glimpses of in the first book. I missed the Nightmare Prince vibe he gave off. Still, this sequel absolutely delivered and I’ve honestly enjoyed every single book Zara has published.
Forged in Flame and Shadow is intense, emotional, full of action and packed with so many plot twists…and now i shall sit here and count down the days until book three. That cliffhanger left me needing more and I cannot wait to have the next book in my hands.
This sequel was everything I hoped for. It picks up right where book one ended and within a few pages I was fully back in Ana and Leon’s world which I LOVE. The story had it all as usual magic, secrets, revenge, tension, romance and so many twists that kept my eyes glued to the page or screen😂
Zara’s writing is so engaging and easy to fall into. The pacing was everything you could wish for. The world building and political plot really expand in this book and sometimes this can be confusing but it’s explained perfectly and I never felt lost while reading it. It just made the story even more exciting and set the stage for what’s clearly going to be a huge third book.
The characters truly made this shine. Ana is a strong, fiery main character who’s still learning and growing. Leon is intense and protective and his softer moments made me love him even more than I already did. He’s completely devoted to Ana and their connection had a great balance of banter, tension, emotion and of course, spice.
If I had one tiny wish, it would be to see more of Leon’s darker side that we got glimpses of in the first book. I missed the Nightmare Prince vibe he gave off. Still, this sequel absolutely delivered and I’ve honestly enjoyed every single book Zara has published.
Forged in Flame and Shadow is intense, emotional, full of action and packed with so many plot twists…and now i shall sit here and count down the days until book three. That cliffhanger left me needing more and I cannot wait to have the next book in my hands.
July 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Forged in Flame & Shadow
Zara Storm | Book 2 – Fated to the Sun and Stars Series
He tore her world apart… and now he might be the only one who can help her save it.
This sequel picks up immediately where the cliffhanger from book one left us (yes, I’m still recovering), and throws us headfirst into Ana’s journey from pawn to powerful heir of a blood-soaked throne. With magic awakening inside her and enemies closing in, Ana’s strength is tested in every possible way and watching her rise is nothing short of addictive.
Her enemies-to-lovers tension with Leon? Absolute perfection. Betrayal, reluctant alliance, forbidden longing, every look, every touch crackled…
→ “Because I wouldn’t have been able to stop myself, not when every look from you sets me on fire. When every word from those pretty lips has me desperate to make you mine.”(Yes. Screaming.)
We get political intrigue in the Fae kingdom, clashes with Leon’s formidable grandfather (the Fae King!), and Ana truly beginning to own her power. I loved the layers of loyalty and love, her bond with her childhood best friend Tira was a standout, and Leon’s group of soldiers gave me all the found-family feels.
The final third turns up the stakes again, introducing a key new rebel character, more danger, and a devastating loss that had my heart in my throat. And just when I thought I could breathe? BOOM—another cliffhanger. Ana’s in peril and I am not okay.
This series is shaping up to be everything I want in romantasy: fierce heroines, complicated love, lush world-building, and just enough heartbreak to keep me counting down to the next release.
Bring on book three! I’m ready (I think 😩).
Forged in Flame & Shadow
Zara Storm | Book 2 – Fated to the Sun and Stars Series
He tore her world apart… and now he might be the only one who can help her save it.
This sequel picks up immediately where the cliffhanger from book one left us (yes, I’m still recovering), and throws us headfirst into Ana’s journey from pawn to powerful heir of a blood-soaked throne. With magic awakening inside her and enemies closing in, Ana’s strength is tested in every possible way and watching her rise is nothing short of addictive.
Her enemies-to-lovers tension with Leon? Absolute perfection. Betrayal, reluctant alliance, forbidden longing, every look, every touch crackled…
→ “Because I wouldn’t have been able to stop myself, not when every look from you sets me on fire. When every word from those pretty lips has me desperate to make you mine.”(Yes. Screaming.)
We get political intrigue in the Fae kingdom, clashes with Leon’s formidable grandfather (the Fae King!), and Ana truly beginning to own her power. I loved the layers of loyalty and love, her bond with her childhood best friend Tira was a standout, and Leon’s group of soldiers gave me all the found-family feels.
The final third turns up the stakes again, introducing a key new rebel character, more danger, and a devastating loss that had my heart in my throat. And just when I thought I could breathe? BOOM—another cliffhanger. Ana’s in peril and I am not okay.
This series is shaping up to be everything I want in romantasy: fierce heroines, complicated love, lush world-building, and just enough heartbreak to keep me counting down to the next release.
Bring on book three! I’m ready (I think 😩).
July 28, 2025
This booked had me hooked from the beginning!
I was not so patiently waiting for book two in this series and it's finally here. This story picks right after the ending of book one. Ana once again is betrayed and has no choice into where Leon is taking her. Her emotions are all over the place and she has lost all trust in Leon and his fae friends. She needs to learn to control her celestial magic in order to help Leon save his brother. With so little time Ana embarks in a journey of self discovery testing her powers but also her heart.
I love that this book gives us more of Leon and his motives. I truly see Leon in a different way. In this book you see his vulnerable side and all that he is willing to sacrifice to be with Ana. I love all his overly protectiveness tendencies and how he becomes just a different fae around Ana.
This book has tons of action pack moments as well as some astonish revelations. The chemistry between Ana and Leon is once again perfection with all the frenemies vibes that made their sexy encounters very explosive. I really enjoyed the side characters and how the plot develops. The story is fast paced and once again you get pull into the chaos of this human and magical world full of secrets, betrayal, magic and politics. I can't wait for the next book because I know book three is going to be amazing.
If you love Romantasy in it's finest then pick up this series right now!
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Magic
-Found Family
-Betrayal and Revenge
-He falls first
-Broken Kingdom
-Touch her and die
-Morally Grey Characters
I was not so patiently waiting for book two in this series and it's finally here. This story picks right after the ending of book one. Ana once again is betrayed and has no choice into where Leon is taking her. Her emotions are all over the place and she has lost all trust in Leon and his fae friends. She needs to learn to control her celestial magic in order to help Leon save his brother. With so little time Ana embarks in a journey of self discovery testing her powers but also her heart.
I love that this book gives us more of Leon and his motives. I truly see Leon in a different way. In this book you see his vulnerable side and all that he is willing to sacrifice to be with Ana. I love all his overly protectiveness tendencies and how he becomes just a different fae around Ana.
This book has tons of action pack moments as well as some astonish revelations. The chemistry between Ana and Leon is once again perfection with all the frenemies vibes that made their sexy encounters very explosive. I really enjoyed the side characters and how the plot develops. The story is fast paced and once again you get pull into the chaos of this human and magical world full of secrets, betrayal, magic and politics. I can't wait for the next book because I know book three is going to be amazing.
If you love Romantasy in it's finest then pick up this series right now!
-Forced Proximity
-Forbidden Magic
-Found Family
-Betrayal and Revenge
-He falls first
-Broken Kingdom
-Touch her and die
-Morally Grey Characters
August 13, 2025
4 stars. Not quite as good as book 1, but still a well written, action packed book with a good cliffhanger ending.
What I liked:
- I still love this FMC. She just does everything you want her to. Every time there is an issue, conflict or question she just figures it out.
- Lots of development on the MMC. I wish there was maybe one or two more of his POV chapters.
- There were finally consequences to the MCCs actions! I get very tired of MMC's facing zero consequences for their actions against the FMC in these romantasy books. They are forgiven almost immediately, and its so infuriating. The FMC struggles for about half the book on what to do about him. I truly appreciate this. It makes the whole conflict feel more realistic and mature.
- Plot was good. Just as action packed as book 1. This author does a very good job at pacing. I very much appreciate that she skips over all the traveling and just uses a time jump. Thank you! I am tired of all the traveling in the woods in this genre.
- Cliffhanger ending, I didn't see coming, but was good and was definitely needed to move the story forward. This author has done a very good job at planning out her story so far.
What I didn't like:
- Honestly there isn't much, this plot includes more political maneuverings, so it slows down just a little at parts, but those parts weren't boring or poorly done. I can't quite put my finger on it, but this one just didn't quite flow like book 1.
I am ready for book 3!
What I liked:
- I still love this FMC. She just does everything you want her to. Every time there is an issue, conflict or question she just figures it out.
- Lots of development on the MMC. I wish there was maybe one or two more of his POV chapters.
- There were finally consequences to the MCCs actions! I get very tired of MMC's facing zero consequences for their actions against the FMC in these romantasy books. They are forgiven almost immediately, and its so infuriating. The FMC struggles for about half the book on what to do about him. I truly appreciate this. It makes the whole conflict feel more realistic and mature.
- Plot was good. Just as action packed as book 1. This author does a very good job at pacing. I very much appreciate that she skips over all the traveling and just uses a time jump. Thank you! I am tired of all the traveling in the woods in this genre.
- Cliffhanger ending, I didn't see coming, but was good and was definitely needed to move the story forward. This author has done a very good job at planning out her story so far.
What I didn't like:
- Honestly there isn't much, this plot includes more political maneuverings, so it slows down just a little at parts, but those parts weren't boring or poorly done. I can't quite put my finger on it, but this one just didn't quite flow like book 1.
I am ready for book 3!
July 27, 2025
Author: Zara Storm
Series: Fated to Sun & Stars
Published: July 2025
I was a volunteer ARC reader. Thank you Netgalley
This is the second book of the series and it picks up seemingly after the first book.
Morgana (FMC) has been betrayed by Leon (MMC) which is the main point of contention, and the cliff hanger for which book one left us.
Now, the point of conflict between our lovers is consent—or lack thereof. Leon could have saved so much heartache, trials, and triubilations if he just had a conversation with Morgana. All he had to do was admit his feelings, let her know he could help her with some training, and Morgana likely would have went with him- because choice is so important to her. The only issue I have with this being the conflict between the lovers, is that while we constantly have Leon's perspective, he never once says to himself "maybe I should have asked her knowing choice is important and constantly talking about choices." Nor does he ever actually apologize to her.
Morgana grows a lot in this book. She is coming into her own, into her power, and I am here for it. We see her make decisions and take control back over her life.
Sadly, Leon, like many old immortal men really needs some more hugs, therapy, or maybe just listen to the advice of his best pal Alastor, and get his shit together because he keeps repeating some mistakes.
I really enjoyed this second part of the story and am excited to see where this journey takes us.
Series: Fated to Sun & Stars
Published: July 2025
I was a volunteer ARC reader. Thank you Netgalley
This is the second book of the series and it picks up seemingly after the first book.
Morgana (FMC) has been betrayed by Leon (MMC) which is the main point of contention, and the cliff hanger for which book one left us.
Now, the point of conflict between our lovers is consent—or lack thereof. Leon could have saved so much heartache, trials, and triubilations if he just had a conversation with Morgana. All he had to do was admit his feelings, let her know he could help her with some training, and Morgana likely would have went with him- because choice is so important to her. The only issue I have with this being the conflict between the lovers, is that while we constantly have Leon's perspective, he never once says to himself "maybe I should have asked her knowing choice is important and constantly talking about choices." Nor does he ever actually apologize to her.
Morgana grows a lot in this book. She is coming into her own, into her power, and I am here for it. We see her make decisions and take control back over her life.
Sadly, Leon, like many old immortal men really needs some more hugs, therapy, or maybe just listen to the advice of his best pal Alastor, and get his shit together because he keeps repeating some mistakes.
I really enjoyed this second part of the story and am excited to see where this journey takes us.
July 7, 2025
Forged in Flame and Shadow by Zara Storm is a breathtaking continuation of Ana Angevire’s story—blending raw emotion, deadly politics, and smoldering tension into a tale that refuses to let go.
Ana is a heroine reborn in fire and fury. No longer the hunted girl of her past, she rises as a queen sharpened by betrayal and burdened by a power that threatens to consume her from within. Her arc is steeped in pain and triumph, and Storm does a masterful job showing both her strength and the quiet vulnerability beneath it.
Enter Prince Leonidas—dangerous, devastating, and impossible to forget. Their shared history crackles with betrayal, regret, and a chemistry so potent it practically scorches the page. Watching Ana and Leon navigate mistrust and longing while being forced into alliance is *chef’s kiss* enemies-to-lovers perfection. The angst? Immaculate. The tension? Exquisite.
Storm's worldbuilding continues to impress—rich in magic, steeped in danger, and brimming with political intrigue. Assassins in the shadows, scheming courtiers, celestial magic on the brink of chaos—every element layers seamlessly into a plot that feels both epic and deeply personal.
This book hurts in the best way. It’s about survival, sovereignty, and the cost of power—and whether love can survive the wreckage left in its wake.
Ana is a heroine reborn in fire and fury. No longer the hunted girl of her past, she rises as a queen sharpened by betrayal and burdened by a power that threatens to consume her from within. Her arc is steeped in pain and triumph, and Storm does a masterful job showing both her strength and the quiet vulnerability beneath it.
Enter Prince Leonidas—dangerous, devastating, and impossible to forget. Their shared history crackles with betrayal, regret, and a chemistry so potent it practically scorches the page. Watching Ana and Leon navigate mistrust and longing while being forced into alliance is *chef’s kiss* enemies-to-lovers perfection. The angst? Immaculate. The tension? Exquisite.
Storm's worldbuilding continues to impress—rich in magic, steeped in danger, and brimming with political intrigue. Assassins in the shadows, scheming courtiers, celestial magic on the brink of chaos—every element layers seamlessly into a plot that feels both epic and deeply personal.
This book hurts in the best way. It’s about survival, sovereignty, and the cost of power—and whether love can survive the wreckage left in its wake.
October 30, 2025
This book was a fun and dramatic ride that kept me hooked, even if I occasionally rolled my eyes along the way. I really enjoyed the darker tone and the political and emotional tension between Ana and Leonidas. Their dynamic has that addictive mix of betrayal, lingering feelings, and forced alliance that I can never resist. Ana’s journey—from being used and broken to stepping into her own power—was satisfying and emotional, even when her choices frustrated me a little. The magic system and world-building also had some really intriguing layers that I wish had been explored even more.
That said, there were a few scenes (especially the pre-ball sequence and the dance itself) that felt overly dramatic and almost childish for the tone the rest of the book was going for. The whole “jealous fiancée sabotaging the heroine” part didn’t really fit with the otherwise intense and high-stakes story, and it pulled me out of the moment a bit. Still, I can’t deny that the emotional tension, the chemistry, and the constant sense of danger kept me turning pages.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me—an entertaining fantasy romance with plenty of angst, action, and magic, even if it leaned a little too dramatic at times.
That said, there were a few scenes (especially the pre-ball sequence and the dance itself) that felt overly dramatic and almost childish for the tone the rest of the book was going for. The whole “jealous fiancée sabotaging the heroine” part didn’t really fit with the otherwise intense and high-stakes story, and it pulled me out of the moment a bit. Still, I can’t deny that the emotional tension, the chemistry, and the constant sense of danger kept me turning pages.
Overall, this was a solid 4-star read for me—an entertaining fantasy romance with plenty of angst, action, and magic, even if it leaned a little too dramatic at times.
July 16, 2025
4⭐️ zara storm is so consistent in what she delivers with her books and i love it. i always know it’s going to be fast paced, full of twists and turns, and with a dark fae prince as the mmc. everything a girl could want if i’m being honest. this was a great second book to a four book series, and it does not suffer from second book syndrome in the slightest. i worry that our fmc is a bit too trusting, but i’m excited to see where she goes next. warning: contains cliffhanger ending
tropes: he falls first, broken trust, fae x human tension, you’re the only one who matters to me, religious zealots
other similar titles: great for readers who want a fast paced dark fae prince, and have ACOMAF as an all time favorite
3.5🌶️ i feel like i can kinda always go for more spice, and i could’ve in this one, but i try to factor that out of my spice ratings. the scenes are good, and the dark mmc is a tad dark in the bedroom too, but they are pretty brief and there aren’t too many of them. i think it’s pretty standard & good for a broad audience
thank you to zara storm for this ARC. i’m voluntarily leaving an honest review
tropes: he falls first, broken trust, fae x human tension, you’re the only one who matters to me, religious zealots
other similar titles: great for readers who want a fast paced dark fae prince, and have ACOMAF as an all time favorite
3.5🌶️ i feel like i can kinda always go for more spice, and i could’ve in this one, but i try to factor that out of my spice ratings. the scenes are good, and the dark mmc is a tad dark in the bedroom too, but they are pretty brief and there aren’t too many of them. i think it’s pretty standard & good for a broad audience
thank you to zara storm for this ARC. i’m voluntarily leaving an honest review
September 24, 2025
⭐ 3/5 stars | 🌶️ 4/5 spice
✅ Spoiler-Free
Forged in Flame and Shadow is a fun and unique continuation of the series that dives deeper into Morgana’s magic and her growing relationship with Leon. The pacing was steady overall, though the ending felt a little rushed, and while the story kept me engaged, I sometimes felt overwhelmed by the number of characters and places introduced.
Alastor, Leon, and Morgana stood out most, though I would have liked more conflict with Leon’s betrothed to really raise the stakes. Some emotional moments, like the healing scenes, were important but didn’t land as strongly as I hoped. Still, the book had a nice mix of suspense, surprises, and humor, and I appreciated the themes of independence, choice, and acceptance woven into Morgana’s journey.
The writing flowed naturally and was easy to read, but I would have loved more time spent in each setting to really flesh out the world. Even with a few frustrations around pacing and depth, this was a solid book two that I’d recommend to romantasy readers who enjoy strong fae male characters and heroines finding their power. I’ll definitely continue the series to see where Storm takes the story next.
✅ Spoiler-Free
Forged in Flame and Shadow is a fun and unique continuation of the series that dives deeper into Morgana’s magic and her growing relationship with Leon. The pacing was steady overall, though the ending felt a little rushed, and while the story kept me engaged, I sometimes felt overwhelmed by the number of characters and places introduced.
Alastor, Leon, and Morgana stood out most, though I would have liked more conflict with Leon’s betrothed to really raise the stakes. Some emotional moments, like the healing scenes, were important but didn’t land as strongly as I hoped. Still, the book had a nice mix of suspense, surprises, and humor, and I appreciated the themes of independence, choice, and acceptance woven into Morgana’s journey.
The writing flowed naturally and was easy to read, but I would have loved more time spent in each setting to really flesh out the world. Even with a few frustrations around pacing and depth, this was a solid book two that I’d recommend to romantasy readers who enjoy strong fae male characters and heroines finding their power. I’ll definitely continue the series to see where Storm takes the story next.
January 24, 2026
I was already in love with this series and once again the narrators, Jessie Elwyn and Christopher Andrews, knocked it out of the park. They just did everything rights - there was a depth of emotion, unique voices for the different side character, and an unexplainable something extra.
From the very first page, listeners are pulled in and are living each moment right next to the characters. It really says something to the talent of these narrators that I frequently found myself unable to multitask as I just wanted to listen and fully enjoy the life they brought to these already amazing book.
Forged in Flame and Shadow builds on everything Zara Storm set up in book one. Where the first book laid the groundwork, this one pushes the story forward with real momentum. By the end, it feels like we've climbed all the way up the mountain, only to be shoved off the edge on the final page. The plot really starts to gain momentum and open up, with smaller subplots coming into focus, and we just begin to see the ripple effects of earlier events.
Ana and Leon’s relationship continues to be a high point for me. It isn’t a straightforward progression, which makes it feel more authentic. They’re both navigating their own inner turmoil and the pressure of outside forces. I liked how the story continues to balance familiar tropes like he falls first, he’s morally grey, and she’s starting to embrace that as well, alongside the evolution of Ana’s magic. And yes, the steam is definitely there.
One of the things I appreciate most about Zara Storm’s writing is the way side characters are handled. They aren’t just there to support the main plot. They’re fully formed, with their own arcs that connect naturally to the larger story. This is especially true with Ana and Tira. Their friendship felt real and grounded, and I loved seeing a female bond take up meaningful space on the page.
With how this one ended, I’m counting down to book three. I can’t wait to see how this series continues to evolve.
From the very first page, listeners are pulled in and are living each moment right next to the characters. It really says something to the talent of these narrators that I frequently found myself unable to multitask as I just wanted to listen and fully enjoy the life they brought to these already amazing book.
Forged in Flame and Shadow builds on everything Zara Storm set up in book one. Where the first book laid the groundwork, this one pushes the story forward with real momentum. By the end, it feels like we've climbed all the way up the mountain, only to be shoved off the edge on the final page. The plot really starts to gain momentum and open up, with smaller subplots coming into focus, and we just begin to see the ripple effects of earlier events.
Ana and Leon’s relationship continues to be a high point for me. It isn’t a straightforward progression, which makes it feel more authentic. They’re both navigating their own inner turmoil and the pressure of outside forces. I liked how the story continues to balance familiar tropes like he falls first, he’s morally grey, and she’s starting to embrace that as well, alongside the evolution of Ana’s magic. And yes, the steam is definitely there.
One of the things I appreciate most about Zara Storm’s writing is the way side characters are handled. They aren’t just there to support the main plot. They’re fully formed, with their own arcs that connect naturally to the larger story. This is especially true with Ana and Tira. Their friendship felt real and grounded, and I loved seeing a female bond take up meaningful space on the page.
With how this one ended, I’m counting down to book three. I can’t wait to see how this series continues to evolve.
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