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Heirs of Elydor #3

Fate of Echoes and Embers

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Preorder the next blisteringly hot, heart-stopping romantasy from C.L. Mecca Readers love C.L.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Keeps you utterly obsessed to the end!'- Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'I really don't ever want it to end' - Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'The banter was so good and the tension was wonderful.' - Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Fast-paced, fun, and full of heart.' - Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'A captivating fantasy world.' - Reader Review

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 16, 2025

23 people are currently reading
134 people want to read

About the author

C.L. Mecca

14 books56 followers
C.L. Mecca is the author of steamy paranormal romance that transports readers to a world of love, passion, power and control. She also writes historical romance as Cecelia Mecca.

Every heroine, from Lady Sara in the Border Series to Alessandra Fiore in Bloodwite, is your best friend-- the one who kicks ass and takes names. When these ladies meet alpha-males who try to take control, sparks fly with increasing fervor. If you favor sleep, don't start reading her books late at night.

Cecelia writes the Amazon bestselling Border Series which takes readers to an admittedly romanticized time of knights and castles in 13th century Northumbria along the Anglo-Scottish border. aka Hot English Knights AND Sexy Scottish Highlanders She's also currently jumping into a new world which tests the patience of even the most steadfast romance heroine. After all, dealing with the ultimate bad boys-- sexy, wealthy and swoon-worthy vampires-- is not for the faint of heart. In other words, she's releasing her first contemporary paranormal series in January 2019.

You can find Cecelia in Northeast, Pennsylvania where she can be found, chai in hand, thinking up new ways to tame both medieval and paranormal playboys. She is firmly House Stark and Gryffindor.

FREE prequel:

Jump into her worlds with a free prequel: http://www.ceceliamecca.com/insider

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Profile Image for Jessica.
294 reviews213 followers
September 12, 2025
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that is about to be released on September 16th called, Fate of Echoes and Embers. This is about Issa, she became the lady of Hawthorne Manor and protector of her people after her parents passed, fulfilling her duty even if it's not her dream. Mev and Kael (the princess and prince from book 1), and Marek (a sea captain from book 2) come to Issa for her help to retrieve the Wind Crystal from the depths of the ocean. Issa is hesitant to help because her and Marek have a past. She never expected to see him again after he left her and broke her heart. She doesn't know the reason Marek ran, and he's hoping for a chance to explain. She hesitantly agrees to help them with their mission to retrieve the Wind Crystal. But as they embark on this dangerous mission across the ocean together, what's even more dangerous is the undeniable chemistry rekindling between Issa and Marek. Issa is faced with the choice of being as cold and unforgiving as the ocean or letting the past roll off her back like the tides. Marek is not the man he was in the past, but Issa is no longer the woman he once knew.
I was so excited to dive into this book and get back into this series I love so much! The descriptive world building is done so well, the growth and depth of the characters make them feel so real, the magic is unique and fun, and the storyline is totally captivating right from the start! I loved this book soo much! This is such an incredible and strong storyline, I absolutely cannot wait to see how the story continues in book 4! 💜📚

Thank you to C.L. Mecca, Boldwood Books, and Netgalley for this ARC of Fate of Echoes and Embers, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Alison.
854 reviews5 followers
August 6, 2025
Fate Of Echoes And Embers
Heirs of Elydor #3
C.L. Mecca
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Marek has spent so many years running from his past. A past that still haunts him, and considering he's immortal that is a very long time. But when an ancient power rises from the ocean's depths, he's forced to go back to the one place he swore off so long ago. And right into the arms of the only woman he has ever loved.

Lady Isolde has built her life on routine and control. She controls her lands, her legacy, and the feelings that she hid away way down deep the day a dashing Thalassarian captain disappeared right out of her life, so she did what any scorned woman would do and she hardened her heart. Now he's returned unexpectedly, asking for her help to retrieve the legendary Wind Crystal. Even though she's not so sure, she does agree to help, even though she knows that it could destroy her once again.

Now the sea is rising and war is coming to Elydor, and the only thing that may be more dangerous than the mission at hand is the passion between Marek and Isolde that never really died in the first place.

C.L. Mecca takes you on a journey of epic proportions that will blow your mind. There are so many twists and turns that you have no idea what's around the corner (or on the next page). This story consumed me from the moment I started reading until the last sentence was read. Fantasy doesn't get better than this. All in all Ms. Mecca did a super job on this book and I recommend reading them all. I loved the characters as I felt like I knew them all. Congratulations Ms. Mecca this book is phenomenal and I truly enjoyed it.
Profile Image for SelinaW.
221 reviews2 followers
August 23, 2025
My first romantasy from C. L. Mecca and what an amazing read! I thought I’d have trouble understanding the intricacies of the world building as it is the 3rd book of the series and I was coming in fresh. I am here to tell you the storytelling is so incredibly crisp and absorbing, and the facets of the world the author created for this series are so detailed, I not only did not have an issue following but could not put this book down.

Marek and Issa’s is a second chance story between the seasoned fleet captain and a protector of the manor and her people. Both are fiercely loyal and it takes them the duration of the story to realize the loyalty to each other can run parallel to their loyalty to their birthrights. But so much happens before their HEA - there is unexpected intrigues, fights, all happening alongside the main adventure of the book. Marek is a survivor and a great, strong character. Issa is a wonderful complement to him with her inner strength and own adventurous spirit. Supporting characters are fantastic, some of whom were heroes of previous stories. I am excited for the next installment and adding this author to my immediate read list!!

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood books for a chance to read this ARC.
Profile Image for Sue Wallace .
7,401 reviews139 followers
September 18, 2025
Fate of Echoes and Embers by C. L. Mecca.
Heirs of Elydor book 3.
I really enjoyed this book. I did like the blurb of this book. I got into this book straight away. I loved the world-building. I loved the writing style and the story. I loved the chemistry between Marek and Isolde. I really couldn't put it down. I read in a few days. I loved everything about this book. There was nothing I didn't like. I really hope there is more to come as I don't want this series to end. I definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Bookish Venturess.
892 reviews17 followers
September 30, 2025
So good

Oh my gosh. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what exactly would happen. This was such a great story. I love the magic and the kingdoms. This is a great fantasy with some spice and amazing magic and characters.
Profile Image for Dayna Smith.
504 reviews24 followers
September 5, 2025
Before diving into this review, I want to be upfront: I have not read the first or second books in this series. Despite this, Fate of Echoes and Embers worked well as a standalone experience for me. C.L. Mecca offers enough context and background that newcomers can follow the story and enjoy the characters without feeling lost or overwhelmed by previous plotlines.

This third installment bursts with richly crafted world-building and an intricate plot that effortlessly weaves fantasy, romance, and political intrigue. The setting feels expansive and lived-in, with vivid descriptions that bring the world to life—from sprawling kingdoms to shadowy court politics. Mecca’s writing is immersive, evoking the sights, sounds, and tensions of a complex world where power is a dangerous game.

The story centers on (if you want to specify, include the protagonist’s name here), who finds themselves entangled in webs of loyalty, betrayal, and internal conflict. The character development is nuanced; they are far from perfect and often face difficult moral choices that feel authentic and gripping. The supporting cast is equally engaging, each with their own agendas and secrets, which adds layers of complexity to the narrative.

One of the highlights of this book is how Mecca balances sweeping political drama with intimate emotional moments. The tension between duty and desire, personal loyalty and political expediency, is palpable throughout the story. The romance elements are well-integrated, adding warmth and tension without detracting from the larger stakes.

While the novel largely succeeds in standing on its own, it occasionally drops references and allusions to past events and characters from earlier books that feel a bit heavy for readers new to the series. These moments didn’t detract significantly from my enjoyment, but they did remind me that this book sits within a larger saga, and I’m curious to read the earlier volumes to fully appreciate the depth of the story.

The pacing is generally strong, with a good balance of action sequences, political maneuvering, and quieter reflective moments. Mecca’s prose flows smoothly, making it easy to get lost in the story despite its complexity.

⚔️ Tropes in Fate of Echoes and Embers 🔮

👑 Political Intrigue – Power struggles, court machinations, and shifting alliances keep the tension high.

🗡️ Fantasy Adventure – Battles, quests, and dangerous missions are central to the story’s momentum.

💔 Complicated Romance – Love entangled with loyalty, secrets, and betrayals.

🧙‍♂️ Magic System – A richly built magical world with unique rules and powers.

🕵️‍♀️ Secrets and Revelations – Hidden pasts and shocking truths come to light.

🌪️ High Stakes – The fate of kingdoms and lives hangs in the balance.

🛡️ Loyalty Tested – Characters face impossible choices between friends, lovers, and duty.

🌌 Epic World-Building – A fully imagined universe with detailed cultures, politics, and landscapes.

🎭 Enemies to Allies – Former rivals forced to work together for a greater cause.

🔥 Character Growth – Emotional arcs filled with pain, resilience, and redemption.

🌿 Prophecy and Fate – Hints of destiny influencing the characters’ paths.
Profile Image for Heather.
100 reviews
August 11, 2025
I struggled with this book until I realised that it shouldn’t really be marketed as an adult fantasy book, but more a teen or young adult one. Once I accepted that I found it enjoyable.

Thank you to NetGalley for the arc- all views are my own.

This book is the 3rd of a series focusing on the world of Elydor. This book centres or Lady Isolde, a human presiding over Hawthorne Manor and Marek, a Thalassorian captain.

Despite not having read the first two books I quickly grasped the world and the story premise, as well as the supporting characters.

It was an ok read, but my main issues is there was no real depth. Hence why I think it should be marketed more as a teen or young adult fiction. The spice was awkward and not necessary - the author could have just alluded to it rather than try and describe the spicy scenes.

The journey Issa and Marek go on is not given the depth of description that other fantasy novels do so well. This storyline could have been wrapped up in a novella form and the reader would still get the same amount of information.

My other issue with this book that leads me to feel it is not a n adult book is Issa and Marek’s relationship. They have had a connection previously and then Marek left with no communication. Throughout the book I thought they must have had a deep connection and been intimate for Issa to have such a strong reaction and lack of trust. However it turns out that they kissed once. I’ve read numerous historical fiction books and fantasy romance and to be this annoyed at someone ghosting you after once kiss is absurd. I get that this world is meant to be more medieval for the humans but Issa is portrayed as a leader of her lands, a warrior. Despite keeping herself as a virgin - I doubt very much someone like her would be so annoyed that a man left after only a week of knowing them and one kiss.

However, if I read this thinking of a teenager reading it then of course this all makes sense and I can agree that it should be portrayed like that.

The same goes for the lack of depth and descriptions throughout the book. Nothing really happens. There are two areas that could be deemed as action and uncertainty but both have little impact, and I was very much underwhelmed.

As an adult romantasy book 2 stars, but teen romantasy 3-4 stars.
253 reviews9 followers
August 7, 2025
4⭐️
2🌶️

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an e-arc of this book!

I’ve received arcs for all 3 installments of this series 🤩 And this is another solid story from the author.

We continue to progress the overall general plot of the series while following a new couple: Issa and Marek.

A story to second chance love. Marek is tasked with obtaining a magical artifact to help reopen the gate between their world and the human realm. He seeks the help of Issa, a human with the ability to sense magic and also the only woman he’s ever loved…and left.

Years ago, they both were falling head over heels for each other, until one day Marek had up and left without a word or trace. Issa never understood why and has loathed him ever since, diving herself into her role as Lady of the human kingdom, fulfilling her promise to her parents to protect their livelihood in a world surrounded by fae. But when Marek comes back asking for her help, she agrees to help for the greater good of all humans, and for her long time friend, Kael.

Tension and quips clash between the two and while Issa tells herself she will never fall for Marek’s tricks again, her undeniable pull to him makes her second guessing it all.

We have some decent spice 🌶️ my favorite spice of the series still is from book 2 of Nerys and Rowan but I also enjoyed the spice in here too.

As with every book, we continue to pursue the overall plot while also having the various romances of different couples.

We got to not only see Kael and Mev again a ton this book, which I was like YAY!! But also got to see Nerys and Rowan too. I’m glad to see the integration of the previous couples because they still are important to the story. I want to see that continue.

The ending of this book is the first though that I don’t know where we’re going next. There isn’t a hint of the next main characters, so it’ll either be a surprise or maybe a book that encompasses everyone? That would be fun 🤩 we have 1 more magical artifact to collect so who will be tasked with that? Kael is the obvious choice so will the next book go back to them? I don’t know and I love and hate it! lol 😂

Another great installment and I can’t wait for book 4!
172 reviews5 followers
September 16, 2025
I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book. I truly appreciate it!

I loved this book so much! It's got to be my second favourite right behind the first in this series and its completely stolen my heart! I was so excited to be able to read Marek's story and to find out it would be with Issa! Talk about utter giddiness kicking in! Reading about their past and watching their story bloom again was breathtaking! They're both so utterly perfect for each other! Their adventure for the wind Crystal kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time!

That ending though! I loved it! It was nothing short of everything I was begging to have happen and so much more! The descriptions for everything and everyone are so captivating it's like watching what you're reading happen live before you eyes! If there was one world I could ever visit it would be this one! I wish I had my own way through the gate to there I would never leave!

Having all of our friends back together on and off throughout this book though I loved those moments so much! It felt like having the whole family back together. Which is exactly what this book and this whole series gives you. Family. As soon as you enter this series and this book you feel like you're home! You feel like no matter what happens whether good or bad that you're not alone and you'll make it through it all with them by your side! Well there was a lot of sitting on the edge of my seat as so much happens there's still so much peace and joy that comes from being back in this world and I can't thank the author enough for giving this feeling to me!

Well I'm so sad to know this is the second to last book in this series, I can't wait for the next one! I need to see how it all will end.

Thank you so much again from the bottom of heart for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book! I truly appreciate it so much! I loved it so much and I can't wait to bring 'Fate of Echoes and Embers' home to the rest of its family!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
24 reviews
September 12, 2025
War is coming, and when Marek is tasked by his queen to hunt down and retrieve a magical artefact thought to be lost to the ocean, he turns to the only person who can help him on his mission. The question is, will she help him after he left her without a goodbye all those years before? And will either of them or their hearts survive the journey they are about to embark on?

I went into this book not realising it was the third book in C.L. Mecca’s Heirs of Elydor series. While the first two books may have added a layer of deeper understanding of the world, lore, and off-page characters, I still devoured this book! There is so much to love: the world is intricate and beautifully described, the magic is interesting, and the “boat life” setting is a new take for me. Our main characters for this instalment of the series, Marek and Isolde, are wonderful. Marek the Navarch hides his haunting past and vulnerability under winks and cheeky grins. At the bottom of it all, he is just a man who doesn’t want to get hurt. I adored his affinity with the ocean and his magic. Isolde, Issa, is tied to her parents’ estate and its people when all she truly craves is adventure and the thrill of exploring her own path. She is equal parts lady and fierce woman. The chemistry and banter that ensues between these two is…chef’s kiss. I cannot wait to see what happens in the next instalments of this series.

If you love high stakes, political intrigue, unique fantasy worlds and a charming MMC you can’t get enough of, this one is for you!

Thank you, C.L. Mecca, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Debs Taylor.
47 reviews2 followers
August 16, 2025
✨ Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. ✨

Fate of Echoes and Embers by C.L. Mecca is, I believe, the first in what will hopefully grow into a strong and exciting fantasy series. As with many series openers, this book focuses heavily on world building and introducing the main cast of characters.

The plot centers on the retrieval of a magical object from The Depths—a place known for danger and mystery, from which no one has ever returned. Our protagonist, gifted with magical abilities, embarks on this daunting journey alongside an old flame she has spent years trying to forget. Inevitably, their shared mission reignites past emotions and forces them to confront their complicated history while navigating perilous trials.

While the setup is promising and the romance element adds an emotional layer, I found the actual retrieval quest to fall a little flat compared to the build-up. The anticipation for the journey was high, but the execution didn’t quite deliver the level of excitement I was hoping for.

That said, the foundation has been laid for what could become a truly engaging and adventurous series. I’m hopeful that the next installment will bring more action, higher stakes, and perhaps a bit more spice to balance the fantasy elements.
Profile Image for Rachael.
22 reviews4 followers
September 16, 2025
Fate of Echoes and Embers is the third book in Cissy Mecca’s Romantasy series. This one follows the POV of Issa (Lady Isolde of Hawthorne Manor) and Marek, the suave smuggler, who was introduced as a close friend to Nerys in book 2.

This is a slow-burn 'Will they, won't they' and I'm not here to give you spoilers, but what I will say - Marek broke Issa's heart, that I'm not sure even I forgive!

That's no surprise, we're told this early on, and I spend a chunk of the book not quite getting over that.

Marek has a past and trauma related to why he broke her heart. This doesn't stop him from loving her, and Issa, clearly struggling with her head and her heart as to whether or not to give Marek another chance. A smuggler, a sailor a very well-travelled immortal who knows his way around a woman as well as the sea - does he really deserve a second chance with innocent, mortal Issa?

The story is how Marek will travel to the deadly Maelstorm Depths to retrieve the Wind Crystal, but the underlying question is will Issa forgive Marek before it's too late for him?

Will Marek survive the unforgiving seas of the Maelstorm Depths to retrieve the Wind Crystal?

Will Issa and Marek survive the unforgivable way Marek broke Issa's heart?

But most of all, will you finish this book or will the book finish you?
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,561 reviews55 followers
September 15, 2025
The world building continues to evolve in this third outing. Fantasy with strong romance and a dollop of humorous banter. Be warned some of the secondary, but with a brief appearance, characters don't make it to the end!

Marek and Issa had a short but intense relationship. But he left her heartbroken and when they next met he didn't endear himself when he made her jealous on top of being heartbroken! But in typical fashion he now needs her help to navigate the Depths looking for a magical artifact to help Kael and Mev.

The Navarch and smuggler (think cross between a pirate and a sea captain) with strong magical influence over the sea is completely powerless when it comes to the snappy human. He's not sure how he'll ever win her back when she goes out of her way to cut him off and freeze him out. Issy is strong, principled, loyal and intelligent. She has taken on a role she never really wanted to keep her people safe and gave up any chance at having the life she wanted. Similarly Marek is driven by the thought of vengeance and the discovery of what actually happened to his mum.

It was fun watching these two tussle, butt heads and snark at each other. As they finally realised that there was a solution right in front of them that could give them both what they wanted was so sweet.

Mev and Kael male an appearance and help with all the derring do. The story is continuing at a fabulous pace and I'm intrigued to see what lies ahead in book 4!
Profile Image for T M. Robertson.
163 reviews4 followers
September 18, 2025
Fate of Echoes and Embers begins with a slow build, and at first I found myself wondering how long it would take for the story to truly find its rhythm. While the pacing in the opening chapters requires some patience, once the narrative began to unfold, I was quickly drawn in by the richly developed world, layered character dynamics, and the unfolding intrigue.

The author’s descriptive writing shines, particularly in the action sequences and in the emotional depth given to the main characters. As the stakes grew higher, so did my investment in the outcome. By the midpoint, the plot threads came together in a way that made it difficult to put the book down.

This is a story that rewards perseverance, offering readers not only compelling storytelling but also an emotional payoff that lingers after the final page. Fans of fantasy with immersive world-building and slow-burn momentum will find this a satisfying and memorable read.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
3,071 reviews17 followers
September 19, 2025
Love this Stunning World!!

This is Heirs of Elydor Book 3, and I would recommend reading the first two, mostly because they are so entertaining. There is a critical mission as the focus of this story, one which Marek is not likely to survive. This world has a gateway to humans with magical affinity. The older generation closed that gateway, separating families and creating issues.

This generation is breaking the separation of the clans. Each clan controls different elements, air, water, earth. Marek is a Thalassarian, controller of water. Characters from prior stories are key, and new ones provide additional complexity. The characters come to life, the aspects of this world are captivating, and plausible as presented.

Politics, power, emotions, secrets, destiny, attraction, romance, and a dangerous mission are just some of the highlights of this story. I found myself completely immersed and entertained.

Just know, this is something very special.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Profile Image for PoshingInTheSun.
13 reviews3 followers
August 24, 2025
I am so thankful that I was chosen as an ARC reader for this book. This was my first ARC and a great book to start with! This is the 3rd book of the series and I was a little worried I’d be lost since I did not read the first two. But this author is amazing and you can read these as standalone. I was not lost at all but did wish there was a map as well as a character key so you could refer back to both since the characters had abilities based on where they were from. With so many characters, it could be hard for you to remember where everyone is from, how they are connected to each other, and what their abilities are. I was fortunate enough to meet the author this past weekend and pick up the first two in the series so I can read them and can’t wait for the 4th to come out in 2026! If you love Romantasy, add this to your TBR! 4.5 stars but Goodreads doesn’t allow halves :)
Profile Image for Sorina.
488 reviews11 followers
September 1, 2025
ARC review

Publication date 16 Sep 25

"Fate of Echoes and Embers" by C.L. Mecca is the 3rd book in the "Heirs of Elydor" series.
Even if each book has different main characters, I would recommend reading the other books before as there are references to actions and characters from the previous book.

Thank you Boldwood Books for the e-ARC (via Netgalley).
Opinions from this review are completely my own.

The story continues after the end of "Tide of Waves and Secrets" with Marek, Kael and Mev gooing to lady Isolde (Issa) to ask for help.
Marek and Issa were in love year ago, but one day he left without explanation.
They have a second chance at love, but Marek has to work to deserve Issa's forgivness.

The book has a lot of tension and yearning, but also action and magic.
I liked the characters and the story has a good pace.

There is also a good balance between the romance part and the story.

It was nice to have the characters from the others books back and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Profile Image for Feya.
207 reviews4 followers
September 4, 2025
Such a sucker for a second chance love story! Marek is tasked with obtaining a magical artifact to help reopen the gate between their world and the human realm. Marek heads out to find Issa, a human with the ability to sense magic, their past history throws some tension into the mix.

Years ago, Marek and Issa were head over heels in love with each other. Until one day Marek left without a word or explanation. Heartbroken, Issa focuses on her promise to her family and the delicate balance she must uphold.

Helping Marek only due to the greater good, or at least she tells herself but that line blurs the longer they stayed together.

These two struggle with their own loyalties, their birthrights, and their love for each other. The plot carries the same depth as the two previous books, I love the characters and the world that C.L. Mecca has continued to share with us.
Profile Image for Rachel Abarca.
176 reviews
September 5, 2025
Fate of Echoes and Embers by C.L. Mecca is a second chance, enemies-to-lovers romance. This is book 3 in the Heirs of Elydor series. I would highly recommend reading the books in order as the stories and characters are interconnected. Marek and Issa had a short affair years ago that ended when he left suddenly with no explanation. Now, he is tasked with finding the Wind Crystal and must travel into the deadly waters of the depths. He has asked Issa to accompany him due to her powers, leading to a forced proximity, action filled adventure. This was my favorite novel so far in the series! The author did a great job of incorporating the previous storylines and continuing to world build. I adored the progression of the relationship with Marek and Issa. I can’t wait for more from C.L. Mecca!

Thank you Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
180 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2025
To try and open the Gate between the Immortal realm and the Human realm powerful magic needs to be gathered. Marek has volunteered for the incredibly dangerous task of recovering the Wind Crystal from the Maelstrom Depths, but he needs the help of the human Lady Isolde, the woman he abandoned several years ago with no explanation. Will she help him, can she trust him and is there any hope for a future for them?

This is a tale of Immortals and Humans, love and hatred, war, sacrifice, valour, second chances, redemption, impossible tasks and friendship. Beautifully written, I got caught up in it from the start and found it hard to put down. I didn’t realise that this the third book in the series and it can be read as a standalone, but I will get the first two as I enjoyed this one so much.

Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.
1,234 reviews15 followers
October 9, 2025
Love, Magic, and Second Chances
Could an immortal smuggler and a mortal woman find their way back to love? Marek abandoned Issa without a word years ago—now, fate throws them together on a dangerous mission to retrieve a magical crystal. As they face treachery, betrayal, and a rising tide of magic, Issa discovers that even an immortal can fall…and Lady Isolde may be the one to save him. But the most unpredictable danger might just be their hearts. Can they survive what’s coming—and rekindle what they once had?
If you enjoy romance, fantasy, and second chances, this steamy tale of love, hope, and redemption might be for you. I especially like that while the stories are tightly woven together, there are no cliffhangers. You can jump in here, but it’s much more fun to start from the beginning of the series.
271 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2025
A stunning addition to the series

C. L. Mecca is a wizard by creating a fantasy world that is vivid and realistic ( as long as you believe in magic)!
Obviously, a little suspension of belief is necessary, but the world building in this series feels so real and tangible... The beauty of the description made me want to visit.
In this third installment, Marek and Issa are responsible for obtaining the Wind Crystal. The obstacles they faced, physically were daunting. The personal obstacles were seemingly impossible.
I loved the growth both of these main characters showed. It was a slow burn romance but fit in perfectly with their story and the progression of their relationship.
I'm looking forward to the next book.
457 reviews3 followers
September 21, 2025
This is my first book by this author under the fantasy/romance category although I have read her contemporary romances in the past. I loved the mystery of this story as Marek and Issa search for the Wind Crystal in the Maelstrom Depths in which those who have entered into have not returned. Marek and Issa live in a world where both immortals and humans exist. The Wind Crystal is one of the artifacts needed to open the gate to allow people to go between the human world and this world. As they and their friends work to find the Crystal, Marek and Issa are trying to come to terms with what they mean to each other. Decisions need to be made by Issa that affect all their lives when her home has been overtaken by a trusted friend. Will Issa choose her home or seafaring with Marek?
Profile Image for Sarah.
363 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2025
I received a copy of this book as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book reminded me that I like reading romantasy. I was instantly transported to Elydor and the tension between the clans.

Lady Isolde is the sole heir and protector to Hawthorne Manor, after her parents passed away. Marek is a sea captain (smuggler) who has a history with Isolde yet needs her assistance, including a voyage away from Hawthorne Manor. Their journey allows them to work through some of their history and forge a relationship going forward. All the while on a dangerous journey and with some missteps along the way, because relationships aren't linear.

It turns out this is book 3 in a series, so off I go to start back at book 1. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Cinnamon&Pine.
113 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

Marek of Thalassaria. Navarch of the Tidebreaker Fleet. A charming scoundrel. A smuggler as reckless as he is daring. As ruthless as he is charismatic.

Years ago, he shattered Issa’s heart. Now they’re forced to work together to retrieve a powerful Aetherian artifact hidden deep within the deadly Maelstrom depths. As they navigate treacherous waters—literal and emotional—old wounds resurface and sparks fly.

This third installment is a noticeable step up: more yearning, more tension, and actual stakes. The romance leans into the second-chance trope beautifully, with both characters torn between duty and desire—between the roles they were born into and the freedom they crave.

Add in one horse, high-seas peril, and crackling chemistry, and I was fully on board.
(And yes—he smells of faintly spiced, sun-warmed leather and sea. Obviously.)

Captivating and compelling—definitely picking up the sequel.


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest opinion.
Profile Image for Amy Reierson.
1,363 reviews18 followers
September 18, 2025
Echoes of the past have led both Marek and Issa to where they currently are. Neither it seems, is truly where they want to be.
Marek now on a mission that seems to mean certain death to retrieve the crystal from the Maelstrom Depths someplace no one returns from alive.
Issa able to sense magic items has been asked to come with but can she leave Hawthorne Manor?
With exciting storms on the seas, battles on the ground with all clans accounted for, traders who should have been friends, friends and allies who are now family and a love that will last till well one never knows how long forever is.
I have voluntarily left this review.
Profile Image for Daisy Hollands.
Author 2 books29 followers
September 26, 2025
Now we all know fantasy isn’t my fave genre but honestly just look at that stunning cover. I couldn’t resist. I just had to find out the stories that were hidden in those pages and boy, am I glad I did. This is an epic kind of read, one full of passion and heartbreak and intrigue - not to mention jeopardy and danger. With each chapter I could feel my heart being tossed around, like a ping pong ball in a tumultuous storm. Although this is the third book in the series, it works perfectly as a standalone and of course I have added the two preceding installments to my TBR. If fantasy is your jam - or even if it isn’t - grab yourself a copy of this book and settle in. Thank me later
5,572 reviews
September 16, 2025
Totally enjoying Ms. Mecca's fantasy romance!

The Heirs of Elydor drew me in and had me captivated throughout!

Like Ms. Mecca's historical romance series, I'm consistently wanting her to find a way to keep the characters you love coming back!
This is what's happened here!

I was totally invested in Marek and Isolde's love story!
Fingers-crossed for a happily-ever-after!

So many twists and turns, and I was consistently left guessing where Ms. Mecca would take her mains!

I was very, very satisfied!
Profile Image for Sarah Nielsen.
4,211 reviews20 followers
September 16, 2025
I received this as an arc from NetGalley and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.

This was a fantastic romantasy. It was the first of the genre I have read by this author but I really enjoyed it. And though it could have probably heightened the experience if had read the previous books in the series, I felt like this book could easily be read as a standalone. Marek and Issa had a complex backstory and I really liked seeing them get over the past and grow together. I really enjoyed the story and I definitely won’t hesitate reading more romantasy by this author.
71 reviews1 follower
September 17, 2025
An enthralling third chapter of the Elydor series pairs innocent Issa with flirty Marek. Mecca writes with so much descriptive detail it is easy to picture the fantasy world in your head. Her characters are likable and it's fun to read about previous characters within each new book. Fates of Echoes & Embers can be read as a standalone, however, it is much better enjoyed after reading the first two installments. It does NOT end in a cliffhanger, but yhe overarching storyline is clearly set to continue....I can't wait!
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