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Crown of Smoke and Starlight
The crown will fall. The stars will rise. And the realm will kneel before her flame.
I was never meant to survive this war, let alone become its weapon.
The powers of Light, Shadow, and Night burn beneath my skin, volatile and barely contained. I’ve tasted darkness, danced with ruin, and I carry the weight of a prophecy that threatens to shatter me. They call me the Child of Twilight. A harbinger. A queen. A monster.
Reign swore he would never stop fighting for me. Even when the bond between us frays. Even when the blood vow hanging over his head demands my death. But love may not be enough to save us. Not when I can’t even trust myself.
Helroth gathers his army. The Courts are crumbling. And every choice I make has the power to ignite salvation or annihilate everything.
The stars are watching. The realm is burning. And in the end... only one crown can rise.
Author's
This epic fantasy romance series contains steamy enemies to lovers, touch her and I'll unalive you vibes, age gap and a smoldering slow burn student/teacher relationship. Content is for mature audiences and 18+ recommended.
I was never meant to survive this war, let alone become its weapon.
The powers of Light, Shadow, and Night burn beneath my skin, volatile and barely contained. I’ve tasted darkness, danced with ruin, and I carry the weight of a prophecy that threatens to shatter me. They call me the Child of Twilight. A harbinger. A queen. A monster.
Reign swore he would never stop fighting for me. Even when the bond between us frays. Even when the blood vow hanging over his head demands my death. But love may not be enough to save us. Not when I can’t even trust myself.
Helroth gathers his army. The Courts are crumbling. And every choice I make has the power to ignite salvation or annihilate everything.
The stars are watching. The realm is burning. And in the end... only one crown can rise.
Author's
This epic fantasy romance series contains steamy enemies to lovers, touch her and I'll unalive you vibes, age gap and a smoldering slow burn student/teacher relationship. Content is for mature audiences and 18+ recommended.
- GenresFantasy
518 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
550 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
G.K. DeRosa
83 books1,516 followersG.K. De Rosa has been an avid reader from a very young age. In fact, before she could even read, she tried fooling everyone into thinking that she could. At the precocious age of two, while living in Italy, she had memorized an entire children’s book in Italian and expertly turned the pages at the exact right moments of the story. As she grew up, she always enjoyed literature, no doubt having been instilled with a love of story telling from her early years in Catholic school where she was greatly influenced by exemplary teachers who taught her the value of English and Literature. Though she did not pursue writing in college and instead went for the more traditional route of International Business inspired by her love for travel and all things foreign, after a move to New York City, she found her creative writing side calling once again. She began writing a restaurant review blog, City Lights and Tasty Bites, detailing her other passion – food! The hectic hustle and bustle of the city, combined with long commuting times gave her the opportunity to spend more time reading and rekindled a lost love. After reading countless books in many diverse genres over the two years in New York City, and returning to her home state of Florida, she felt compelled to write something for herself. She had always felt particularly drawn to Young Adult novels and having been an eternal romantic at heart, a fantasy romance was a natural choice. She currently lives in South Florida with her real life Prince Charming and their fur baby, Nico the German Shepherd.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 7, 2025
Reign annoyed me so much in this. One second, he’s promising his life to Aelia. Then the second the hint of an excuse to leave he’s half way out the door to leave under the excuse for ‘her safety’. Aelia isn’t much better, the insufferable insistence of mercy. Hun someone literally is trying to kill you and you’re upset they are betraying you and you’re trying to reason??? Give it up 🙄
I felt the plot was just a lot of mini side quests with little depth. The lost stone which was found with literally no issue and done in three chapters? The dragon reunion all done off page, and fully resolved in two chapters? What?
I’m upset because I loved the first book so much, and I really enjoyed the characters originally but this series was definitely ruined by dragging it out…
I felt the plot was just a lot of mini side quests with little depth. The lost stone which was found with literally no issue and done in three chapters? The dragon reunion all done off page, and fully resolved in two chapters? What?
I’m upset because I loved the first book so much, and I really enjoyed the characters originally but this series was definitely ruined by dragging it out…
November 8, 2025
What a finale, sad to see this terrific series end. Epic battles, betrayals, tension, shocking revelations had me on the edge of my seat. The epilogue with the HEA was everything I wanted and needed after the wild ride this series was. Fantastic ending, fantastic series, definitely recommend!
November 15, 2025
TL;DR: so much potential, so little execution.
I wanted to like this book. I wanted to love this series- it has the markers of everything I look for: court intrigue, hidden royals and powers to be discovered, fated mates, dragons and complex magic systems. Yet it just missed every mark. The pacing was off, with so many chapters dedicated to the most mundane of discussions and then suddenly there is action, which is quickly subdued and our heroes are back to the safety of respite and are again waffling back and forth with decisions that seem so obvious. It had so much potential and just… flopped. I forced myself to get through the last instalment of the series because I was so invested in how the threads of the narrative would be pulled together, but every new side quest, problem for problem’s sake and accompanying “quick fix” introduced,I found myself angry for even bothering. I opposite of recommend this series, and can’t really believe I read all 4. I just kept hoping the idea would flourish. Do I feel guilty for leaving a negative review? Undoubtedly. I know a heart and soul was poured into this. Can I sugar coat my disdain for the whiney protagonists and love triangle for drama sake, and long convoluted meanderings about family betrayals from shared blood but, ultimately, PEOPLE YOU JUST MET adding absolutely nothing to the actual plot? Absolutely not.
I wanted to like this book. I wanted to love this series- it has the markers of everything I look for: court intrigue, hidden royals and powers to be discovered, fated mates, dragons and complex magic systems. Yet it just missed every mark. The pacing was off, with so many chapters dedicated to the most mundane of discussions and then suddenly there is action, which is quickly subdued and our heroes are back to the safety of respite and are again waffling back and forth with decisions that seem so obvious. It had so much potential and just… flopped. I forced myself to get through the last instalment of the series because I was so invested in how the threads of the narrative would be pulled together, but every new side quest, problem for problem’s sake and accompanying “quick fix” introduced,I found myself angry for even bothering. I opposite of recommend this series, and can’t really believe I read all 4. I just kept hoping the idea would flourish. Do I feel guilty for leaving a negative review? Undoubtedly. I know a heart and soul was poured into this. Can I sugar coat my disdain for the whiney protagonists and love triangle for drama sake, and long convoluted meanderings about family betrayals from shared blood but, ultimately, PEOPLE YOU JUST MET adding absolutely nothing to the actual plot? Absolutely not.
November 7, 2025
What a satisfying end to this series, wasn’t sure how I felt after book 3, but the ending was 🫶🏼🫶🏼❤️🔥❤️🔥
December 13, 2025
2.5 - the premise and ideas were really good but I felt like all the battle scenes were brushed over and weren't as immersive as they could have been.
November 4, 2025
WHAT. A. FINAL. I’m obsessed with this series and GK DeRosa never disappoints. I also want to thank her for giving us Ruhl.. IYKYK. This series was everything and more and I highly recommend it for anyone who is fan of High Fantasy!
November 19, 2025
3.25 (good to very good)
Overall, there was enough in this series to keep my interest and make me want to keep reading, but the rounding down is because there were many small things throughout that just irritated me too much.
As a finale to the series this was almost par with the previous books and while the final showdown was fairly quick it was satisfying enough. There was plenty of drama and growth of characters. All in all I enjoyed the read.
SPOILERS BELOW…
What irked me were several things. Note: I did not let these color my overall review too much, but these stuck out to me and did slightly lessen my overall feel of the book.
The semi-love triangle was annoying as hell. I was at least glad it was resolved, but honestly this whole plot point felt unnecessary for the series and got dragged out for far too long.
Many never fully trusted Liora, myself included, and yet she was around when some of the biggest secrets were revealed/talked about. Why??!!! Oh, guess what she was evil the whole time. Also, when they meet Liora as her real self on the battlefield it is over quickly and you never get her side of things. It was not needed per se, but I like betting the other side of things.
Elian was power hungry and the ultimate villain. I saw this coming and really did not, but it just felt meh for me for some reason. I guess also because he just shows up at the end with the Night King (the big bad of the entire book) all tied up. The reason given for how Elian captured him…he pretended to want to make peace. Um, what?! Makes no sense based on everything that was shown prior for BOTH characters. It just left me scratching my head a bit.
Overall, there was enough in this series to keep my interest and make me want to keep reading, but the rounding down is because there were many small things throughout that just irritated me too much.
As a finale to the series this was almost par with the previous books and while the final showdown was fairly quick it was satisfying enough. There was plenty of drama and growth of characters. All in all I enjoyed the read.
SPOILERS BELOW…
What irked me were several things. Note: I did not let these color my overall review too much, but these stuck out to me and did slightly lessen my overall feel of the book.
The semi-love triangle was annoying as hell. I was at least glad it was resolved, but honestly this whole plot point felt unnecessary for the series and got dragged out for far too long.
Many never fully trusted Liora, myself included, and yet she was around when some of the biggest secrets were revealed/talked about. Why??!!! Oh, guess what she was evil the whole time. Also, when they meet Liora as her real self on the battlefield it is over quickly and you never get her side of things. It was not needed per se, but I like betting the other side of things.
Elian was power hungry and the ultimate villain. I saw this coming and really did not, but it just felt meh for me for some reason. I guess also because he just shows up at the end with the Night King (the big bad of the entire book) all tied up. The reason given for how Elian captured him…he pretended to want to make peace. Um, what?! Makes no sense based on everything that was shown prior for BOTH characters. It just left me scratching my head a bit.
November 13, 2025
3.5⭐️ (rounded up)
2🌶️
By the end here, I really felt like I was sticking with it because I needed to find out some answers and Reign. His character and his love and devotion is what kept me reading.
I don’t even want to give this 2🌶️ based on how I normally rate things because while we get multiple instances of s**, we don’t actually get anything from the writing of it. It’s so passed over! If you’re gonna put spice, please put more into it! Everything else is thought out and detailed in the story, but the spice was way overlooked.
I thought I knew a few of the details that there going to be reveals and some I was correct and others I was wrong (I was half correct though! lol)
Overall, did I binge this series? Yes. I really enjoyed the story and characters but for as much love and attention written into the TENSION of the characters, the payoff just wasn’t there for me in the spice department. She wrote a bonus chapter that was way more in depth spicy and she said it’s more than she usually does, but yet, that was my favorite thing. If that type of spice writing would have been in here, would have been a 5⭐️ series for me.
2🌶️
By the end here, I really felt like I was sticking with it because I needed to find out some answers and Reign. His character and his love and devotion is what kept me reading.
I don’t even want to give this 2🌶️ based on how I normally rate things because while we get multiple instances of s**, we don’t actually get anything from the writing of it. It’s so passed over! If you’re gonna put spice, please put more into it! Everything else is thought out and detailed in the story, but the spice was way overlooked.
I thought I knew a few of the details that there going to be reveals and some I was correct and others I was wrong (I was half correct though! lol)
Overall, did I binge this series? Yes. I really enjoyed the story and characters but for as much love and attention written into the TENSION of the characters, the payoff just wasn’t there for me in the spice department. She wrote a bonus chapter that was way more in depth spicy and she said it’s more than she usually does, but yet, that was my favorite thing. If that type of spice writing would have been in here, would have been a 5⭐️ series for me.
October 26, 2025
The final book of the Aetheria series is here and it was everything!!
Crown of Smoke and Starlight is the end of an epic series. It contains battles, fated mates, epic fights, long journeys, dragons, Ruhl 🥵 (yes, he needed his own plot point), a broody and sometimes unhinged Reign❤️, and last, but certainly not least, Aelia (she too needed her own plot point).😉
This journey began with a powerless kin, a moody professor, and an eclectic, but lovable cast of secondary characters that grew into family all the same. This entire series has been quite amazing and I'm sad it's come to an end.
Aelia, has really come into her own. She has proven she is more than just a powerless kin, and in this final book she finally steps into her own becoming the woman she was always meant to be. But I want to preface - if there is one thing to take away from this entire series, while I loved the romance between Aelia and Reign, I mean hello.....romance is literally in my blogs title....I really loved Aelia as a character, her growth, her overall transformation, even more. She was someone who believed she was a nobody, especially when she was thrust into a world where everyone had powers and she didn't. However, her true power was kindness, forgiveness, the love she had for those around her that truly made her the fierce woman that eventually became the epicenter of Aetheria and the radiant beacon that brought others out to fight by her side. She is the good that their world needed and the reason the series was so darn good book after book after book.
I won't forget Reign since he is one hot shadow daddy, along with his antagonist brother Ruhl, but Aelia is the beacon that shines and brings those two shadow princes to their knees. 😉 She is also why her friends and the rest of Aetheria continued fighting until the very end. But back to the dark princes...I adored the brotherly back and forth between Reign and Ruhl. Their brotherly bickering, yet underlying love, is something I looked forward to and I'd only grown to love them more as the series grew. I was extremely pleased at the direction that the story went for both men by the end of the book and also that Ruhl will still hold a piece of my heart, so I look forward to see where his future lies further down the road.
Crown of Smoke and Starlight is the end of an epic series. It contains battles, fated mates, epic fights, long journeys, dragons, Ruhl 🥵 (yes, he needed his own plot point), a broody and sometimes unhinged Reign❤️, and last, but certainly not least, Aelia (she too needed her own plot point).😉
This journey began with a powerless kin, a moody professor, and an eclectic, but lovable cast of secondary characters that grew into family all the same. This entire series has been quite amazing and I'm sad it's come to an end.
Aelia, has really come into her own. She has proven she is more than just a powerless kin, and in this final book she finally steps into her own becoming the woman she was always meant to be. But I want to preface - if there is one thing to take away from this entire series, while I loved the romance between Aelia and Reign, I mean hello.....romance is literally in my blogs title....I really loved Aelia as a character, her growth, her overall transformation, even more. She was someone who believed she was a nobody, especially when she was thrust into a world where everyone had powers and she didn't. However, her true power was kindness, forgiveness, the love she had for those around her that truly made her the fierce woman that eventually became the epicenter of Aetheria and the radiant beacon that brought others out to fight by her side. She is the good that their world needed and the reason the series was so darn good book after book after book.
I won't forget Reign since he is one hot shadow daddy, along with his antagonist brother Ruhl, but Aelia is the beacon that shines and brings those two shadow princes to their knees. 😉 She is also why her friends and the rest of Aetheria continued fighting until the very end. But back to the dark princes...I adored the brotherly back and forth between Reign and Ruhl. Their brotherly bickering, yet underlying love, is something I looked forward to and I'd only grown to love them more as the series grew. I was extremely pleased at the direction that the story went for both men by the end of the book and also that Ruhl will still hold a piece of my heart, so I look forward to see where his future lies further down the road.
November 13, 2025
What a conclusion 🔥🥹 What a couple, what a series 😩 Reign and Aelia have owned my heart since book one and I could not get enough of them! This book blew my mind 🙉 Reign and Aelia are one of my favourite couples of all time 😌 Thank you so much, GK, for this ARC 🥹
Reign Darkthorn 🧎♀️ If I thought this man was obsessed in previous books! 😈 Handsome, tall, grumpy, sunshine only for her, Prince of the shadow court, shadow daddy, possessive, protective, powerful, touch her and die, can't keep his hands off her, extremely supportive, adores their friends 😂, searching for answers and fights for her! Reign's bloodline has always been a mystery to him, and when it all came to light, I needed a minute 🫷 It explains so much, and changes everything they knew. His character had so many surprises for us! From the grumpy Professor to the man obsessed with his cuore 😭 Reign has owned my heart and will continue to do so 🥹
Aelia Ravenwood 🔥 She's even more powerful, and fierce than before 😈 If I thought I adored her, now I am obsessed 😩 Beautiful, intelligent, fierce, possessive, touch him and die, supportive, obsessed with Reign 🤭, powerful, heir to the Night and Light Court, protective, will do anything for Reign and Aetheria, won't back down from a fight and loves to drive Reign insane 😈 Aelia possesses the power of all 3 realms and after being kidnapped by Helroth, she's learning how to use them together. They've both been through hell and it doesn't stop 😖 Aelia knows there is more to everything, since book one, and doesn't stop until they have all the answers!
I was ecstatic to see those spicy scenes because after being deprived in the first 3 books 😩😈 Their bond only gets stronger and deeper and it shows 🥹 I can't say goodbye to my loves 😩 What a series, what characters and twists and turns 🥹 They and you kept me on my toes, Gk 🥹 You are magnificent and a brilliant writer 😩 I can't wait for what else you have in store for us!
Reign Darkthorn 🧎♀️ If I thought this man was obsessed in previous books! 😈 Handsome, tall, grumpy, sunshine only for her, Prince of the shadow court, shadow daddy, possessive, protective, powerful, touch her and die, can't keep his hands off her, extremely supportive, adores their friends 😂, searching for answers and fights for her! Reign's bloodline has always been a mystery to him, and when it all came to light, I needed a minute 🫷 It explains so much, and changes everything they knew. His character had so many surprises for us! From the grumpy Professor to the man obsessed with his cuore 😭 Reign has owned my heart and will continue to do so 🥹
Aelia Ravenwood 🔥 She's even more powerful, and fierce than before 😈 If I thought I adored her, now I am obsessed 😩 Beautiful, intelligent, fierce, possessive, touch him and die, supportive, obsessed with Reign 🤭, powerful, heir to the Night and Light Court, protective, will do anything for Reign and Aetheria, won't back down from a fight and loves to drive Reign insane 😈 Aelia possesses the power of all 3 realms and after being kidnapped by Helroth, she's learning how to use them together. They've both been through hell and it doesn't stop 😖 Aelia knows there is more to everything, since book one, and doesn't stop until they have all the answers!
I was ecstatic to see those spicy scenes because after being deprived in the first 3 books 😩😈 Their bond only gets stronger and deeper and it shows 🥹 I can't say goodbye to my loves 😩 What a series, what characters and twists and turns 🥹 They and you kept me on my toes, Gk 🥹 You are magnificent and a brilliant writer 😩 I can't wait for what else you have in store for us!
November 4, 2025
I was so sad for this to end but it was done in the best way possible. I wasn’t sure how it would all work out and GK DeRosa definitely kept me guessing along the way. Elian made me loathe him every time he was on page and that part of the ending was what I didn’t see coming in the way it was done. I’m glad that even with everything you could guess, there were pieces you couldn’t.
There’s a lot of spice sciences but they’re, for the most part, left up to the imagination. They took full advantage of that “mating” bond.
Reign was such a force to be reckon with in the first 3 books and I think he mellowed slightly in the final one. Not much because he still had that “touch her and die” mentality but you could see Aelia’s positive influence on him. He had so much back story that we finally got to see in this book too.
Aelia. The child of twilight, unifier of realms, badass princess. I think the ending broke me more than I thought it would. Her devotion to Reign and the lengths she went to at the end…. I was feeling the feels.
Ruhl. What can I say, I changed my mind on him and he was an amazing addition in this book. Seeing his growth and unselfishness made me root for him. I felt so bad for him once you got more of his back story and the fact that he’s watching Aelia and Reign together.
This series is a great time. I enjoyed every bit of it and couldn’t wait until the new books dropped. The writing is easy to read, quicker paced, and a good time. I’m the fantasy war girlie and wished the ending battle was just a tiny bit more descriptive. I’d give the entire series 5⭐️
There’s a lot of spice sciences but they’re, for the most part, left up to the imagination. They took full advantage of that “mating” bond.
Reign was such a force to be reckon with in the first 3 books and I think he mellowed slightly in the final one. Not much because he still had that “touch her and die” mentality but you could see Aelia’s positive influence on him. He had so much back story that we finally got to see in this book too.
Aelia. The child of twilight, unifier of realms, badass princess. I think the ending broke me more than I thought it would. Her devotion to Reign and the lengths she went to at the end…. I was feeling the feels.
Ruhl. What can I say, I changed my mind on him and he was an amazing addition in this book. Seeing his growth and unselfishness made me root for him. I felt so bad for him once you got more of his back story and the fact that he’s watching Aelia and Reign together.
This series is a great time. I enjoyed every bit of it and couldn’t wait until the new books dropped. The writing is easy to read, quicker paced, and a good time. I’m the fantasy war girlie and wished the ending battle was just a tiny bit more descriptive. I’d give the entire series 5⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
What a superbingeable epic finale to an amazing roller-coaster of a series! GK DeRosa expertly weaves all the loose ends together in this fourth book and it is phenomenal. Prophecies, traitors, broken alliances, found family, blood binding vows, fated mates, political intrigue... and so many things to wrap up - get ready to feel all the feels!
The usual gang is back together with some additional tension, and we do get that happy ever after we are dying for, but it's not without some epic battles and heartache.
If you thought Aelia was done with her character growth, buckle up, Buttercup, because things are about to get even bumpier. I really loved her arc through this series, but feel like she truly comes into her own in this final installment. Even Reign has additional growth and a shocking revelation to deal with. He continues to be that touch-her-and-I'll-unalive-you MMC, but now we get all the gonna burn the world vibes, too. And, I would be remiss if I didn't mention my favorite Shadow Prince... Ruhl. This man! His struggles with being the heir to the Shadow throne mixed with his feelings for Aelia... gah! Heartrending! I hope we get his story next!
I'm going to be in a major book hangover for a while after that one.
The usual gang is back together with some additional tension, and we do get that happy ever after we are dying for, but it's not without some epic battles and heartache.
If you thought Aelia was done with her character growth, buckle up, Buttercup, because things are about to get even bumpier. I really loved her arc through this series, but feel like she truly comes into her own in this final installment. Even Reign has additional growth and a shocking revelation to deal with. He continues to be that touch-her-and-I'll-unalive-you MMC, but now we get all the gonna burn the world vibes, too. And, I would be remiss if I didn't mention my favorite Shadow Prince... Ruhl. This man! His struggles with being the heir to the Shadow throne mixed with his feelings for Aelia... gah! Heartrending! I hope we get his story next!
I'm going to be in a major book hangover for a while after that one.
November 4, 2025
GK DeRosa delivers a breathtaking finale in Crown of Smoke and Starlight, the final installment of her Aetheria saga. This richly imagined world of Fae, dragons, and destiny reaches its emotional and magical crescendo through the journey of Aleia — a heroine whose transformation from humble kin to the prophesied Child of Twilight is nothing short of epic.
The story masterfully balances high-stakes fantasy with deeply personal stakes. Aleia’s bond with her dragon Sol, her tangled emotions between Reign and Ruhl, and the shocking revelation of her Night Fae lineage all converge in a narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed. The return of the Night Fae and the mind-control twist involving her “grandfather” had me gasping — a twist worthy of a “Who shot JR?” moment.
Reign, the brooding Shadow Fae professor, and Ruhl, the tormented Shadow Prince, add layers of romantic tension and moral complexity. Their dynamic with Aleia explores the soul-deep pull of fated love, the pain of secrets, and the cost of choosing one’s path.
DeRosa’s world-building is lush and immersive, from the halls of the Light Fae academy to the dark corners of Fae politics. But it’s the emotional growth — especially Aleia’s — that anchors the magic. She’s not just powerful; she’s vulnerable, brave, and beautifully human.
This series has been one of the most captivating journeys I’ve taken in a long while. If you love fantasy with heart, heat, and high stakes, Crown of Smoke and Starlight is a must-read.
The story masterfully balances high-stakes fantasy with deeply personal stakes. Aleia’s bond with her dragon Sol, her tangled emotions between Reign and Ruhl, and the shocking revelation of her Night Fae lineage all converge in a narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed. The return of the Night Fae and the mind-control twist involving her “grandfather” had me gasping — a twist worthy of a “Who shot JR?” moment.
Reign, the brooding Shadow Fae professor, and Ruhl, the tormented Shadow Prince, add layers of romantic tension and moral complexity. Their dynamic with Aleia explores the soul-deep pull of fated love, the pain of secrets, and the cost of choosing one’s path.
DeRosa’s world-building is lush and immersive, from the halls of the Light Fae academy to the dark corners of Fae politics. But it’s the emotional growth — especially Aleia’s — that anchors the magic. She’s not just powerful; she’s vulnerable, brave, and beautifully human.
This series has been one of the most captivating journeys I’ve taken in a long while. If you love fantasy with heart, heat, and high stakes, Crown of Smoke and Starlight is a must-read.
November 4, 2025
Crowns of Smoke and Starlight by G.K. DeRosa is an absolutely breathtaking finale to Reign and Aelia’s journey. From the very first page, I was hooked — this book is a nonstop emotional rollercoaster filled with heart-stopping twists, high stakes, and moments that completely shattered me (in the best way).
I’ve always been a Reign girlie 💅, but I have to say… I truly felt for Ruhl in this final installment. His growth and inner conflict hit so hard, and I wasn’t expecting to be this invested in his story. It’s been such a joy seeing the entire crew come back together again — their dynamic and loyalty are everything.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a G.K. DeRosa finale without heartbreak, and my heart is still reeling from that major loss 😭. I also found myself hoping a few enemies might find redemption, but the unpredictable twists kept me on my toes until the very end.
An epic, emotional, and satisfying conclusion to a series that completely stole my heart. G.K. DeRosa knows exactly how to deliver the perfect balance of magic, tension, and feels. Fans of romantasy and fast-paced fantasy will not want to miss this finale.
✨ Thank you to the author for this ARC! ✨
I’ve always been a Reign girlie 💅, but I have to say… I truly felt for Ruhl in this final installment. His growth and inner conflict hit so hard, and I wasn’t expecting to be this invested in his story. It’s been such a joy seeing the entire crew come back together again — their dynamic and loyalty are everything.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a G.K. DeRosa finale without heartbreak, and my heart is still reeling from that major loss 😭. I also found myself hoping a few enemies might find redemption, but the unpredictable twists kept me on my toes until the very end.
An epic, emotional, and satisfying conclusion to a series that completely stole my heart. G.K. DeRosa knows exactly how to deliver the perfect balance of magic, tension, and feels. Fans of romantasy and fast-paced fantasy will not want to miss this finale.
✨ Thank you to the author for this ARC! ✨
November 30, 2025
3.5
Intriguing story and I can honestly say that the ending was surprising; not that the true win over the corrupt, but how it all went down. It was good and disappointing simultaneously.
*Minor Spoilers*
I found Aelia irritating throughout the series. Overall her character grew and showed grit, but, her naivety in never letting go of the mentality that shared DNA automatically means loyalty/understanding is infuriating. I really wanted to throw my kindle across the room and be done with it because she's obviously TSTL. Spoiler alert, she survives. A fact I'm only pleased about because it means Sol, Phantom, and Reign survive too. Fine, she's not completely intolerable but she dint even think to use the necromancy when Aiden died. Not even a thought in her mind. My brain exploded right then.
Ruhl made my heart hurt for him for the entirety of this book and I really hope he gets his happy ending. Speaking of endings, I wish we got to see more of the work it takes to unify the courts because lord knows they didn't all just look at each other like, "My bad. Just following orders. Not hard feelings yeah?"
Intriguing story and I can honestly say that the ending was surprising; not that the true win over the corrupt, but how it all went down. It was good and disappointing simultaneously.
*Minor Spoilers*
I found Aelia irritating throughout the series. Overall her character grew and showed grit, but, her naivety in never letting go of the mentality that shared DNA automatically means loyalty/understanding is infuriating. I really wanted to throw my kindle across the room and be done with it because she's obviously TSTL. Spoiler alert, she survives. A fact I'm only pleased about because it means Sol, Phantom, and Reign survive too. Fine, she's not completely intolerable but she dint even think to use the necromancy when Aiden died. Not even a thought in her mind. My brain exploded right then.
Ruhl made my heart hurt for him for the entirety of this book and I really hope he gets his happy ending. Speaking of endings, I wish we got to see more of the work it takes to unify the courts because lord knows they didn't all just look at each other like, "My bad. Just following orders. Not hard feelings yeah?"
October 30, 2025
Such a beautiful way to wrap up a series that captured my heart right from the start and never let go.
Reign and Aelia have had to face so many obstacles through their journey, and I couldn’t have imagined their story ending any other way. The war they had been hoping to avoid is inevitable and not only must they find a way to stop the selfish power hungry Kings, but also the blood oaths that threaten to destroy everything they hold dear.
The growth, sacrifices, and commitment, not only each other, but their kingdoms as a whole, prove that the fates knew what they were doing when they brought these two together. And let’s be honest, a feral Reign is something we all need more of!
The found family aspect shines bright once again, and I loved watching the many relationships develop and strengthen over the course of this series. From familial bonds, both old and new, friends that become family, and a love that runs soul deep, these characters prove that nothing is impossible when there is hope, faith, and utilization of all available resources.
Reign and Aelia have had to face so many obstacles through their journey, and I couldn’t have imagined their story ending any other way. The war they had been hoping to avoid is inevitable and not only must they find a way to stop the selfish power hungry Kings, but also the blood oaths that threaten to destroy everything they hold dear.
The growth, sacrifices, and commitment, not only each other, but their kingdoms as a whole, prove that the fates knew what they were doing when they brought these two together. And let’s be honest, a feral Reign is something we all need more of!
The found family aspect shines bright once again, and I loved watching the many relationships develop and strengthen over the course of this series. From familial bonds, both old and new, friends that become family, and a love that runs soul deep, these characters prove that nothing is impossible when there is hope, faith, and utilization of all available resources.
November 3, 2025
The final book in the Courts of Aetheria series was enchanting. I literally could not put it down once I started reading, and finished it after reading basically 10 hours straight! DeRosa pulls out all the stops to jerk your emotions all over the map, from tears to laughter and sighs. We are treated to some epic battles, bonding of soulmates across the eons, a bonding surprise, multiplication and amplification of powers, and all of our hopes and dreams for the HEA come to fruition. That’s the only spoiler-but I think you need it to get through. I absolutely ADORED this book, and can’t wait to reread the series. The character growth, plot development and twists, unique magics and the representation of people learning to believe in themselves and realize they are not only enough, but everything by being true to their own natures, accepting their limitations and recognizing their strengths. Love is paramount through this series-learning self-love, and then learning how to share love, and how to share strength. Triumphant finale, GK!
#DeRosa # Romantasy #magic #found family
#DeRosa # Romantasy #magic #found family
November 4, 2025
Aelia's story comes to an end in Crown of Smoke and Starlight ✨
This book was everything I hope and more !
My heart bursts with emotions and I can't believe this is the end !
I thought Aelia and Reign's love couldn't get any bigger than this and boy! I was wrong!
"I love you ,Aelia. More than the soothing emabrace of shadows,more than the cool kiss of midnight. More than anything this realm could ever offer me. And I'll keep saying it until you never forget."
The character growth in this last book was insane for both Aelia and Reign.
Sol and Phantom also had a few surprises ❤️
And Ruhl, Oh ! my dear, amazing dark and perfect Ruhl! He was so ready to give up everything for the realm's and Aelia's sake.
I can't describe the book hangover I have right now!
I still see the final battle in my mind, I can still feel Aelia's suffocating pain when she lost than one person...
Honestly, words are not enough to describe what I feel.
Wholeheartedly I recommend,not only this book, but this whole series! ❤️
This book was everything I hope and more !
My heart bursts with emotions and I can't believe this is the end !
I thought Aelia and Reign's love couldn't get any bigger than this and boy! I was wrong!
"I love you ,Aelia. More than the soothing emabrace of shadows,more than the cool kiss of midnight. More than anything this realm could ever offer me. And I'll keep saying it until you never forget."
The character growth in this last book was insane for both Aelia and Reign.
Sol and Phantom also had a few surprises ❤️
And Ruhl, Oh ! my dear, amazing dark and perfect Ruhl! He was so ready to give up everything for the realm's and Aelia's sake.
I can't describe the book hangover I have right now!
I still see the final battle in my mind, I can still feel Aelia's suffocating pain when she lost than one person...
Honestly, words are not enough to describe what I feel.
Wholeheartedly I recommend,not only this book, but this whole series! ❤️
November 12, 2025
This book dragged. If it hadn’t been the final book of a series I cared about, I would have DNFed. The writing isn’t better although I found it humorous that the author brought up the very first thing from the very first book that threw me out of the world with Ruhl asking if Reign had ever taught Aelia about thanking fae.
There were several wtaf moments, but the biggest one that stands out was the aftermath of the battle in front of Helspire.
*THIS IS YOUR SPOILER WARNING*
Seriously? Her surge of power knocks everyone on their ass so they can just shadow jump out. And then we find out all of her friends are just hunkie dorie because even though they were just as blown back by the power surge as the Night Fae (and her power blasting out on both sides was mentioned more than once), they all were able to just dust themselves off quicker and hightail it out of there? Taking care of that plot hole was as effective as plugging the Edmund Fitzgerald with bubblegum.
I’m just glad the series is over.
There were several wtaf moments, but the biggest one that stands out was the aftermath of the battle in front of Helspire.
*THIS IS YOUR SPOILER WARNING*
Seriously? Her surge of power knocks everyone on their ass so they can just shadow jump out. And then we find out all of her friends are just hunkie dorie because even though they were just as blown back by the power surge as the Night Fae (and her power blasting out on both sides was mentioned more than once), they all were able to just dust themselves off quicker and hightail it out of there? Taking care of that plot hole was as effective as plugging the Edmund Fitzgerald with bubblegum.
I’m just glad the series is over.
November 16, 2025
It’s always exhilarating, exciting, and bittersweet (at the same time) to finish a series. You’ve gotten to know the characters, the world, the magic - and now, it’s going to come to an end. It is always this way with books by G.K. DeRosa. They never fail to send me on an adventure and put into a book slump for a while.
This series definitely took me for a ride! Betrayal, battles, and of course, the usual HEA G.K. is known for in her books.
Aelia has truly come into her own, and it brought me back to where she had started in book one and now here we are with the finale. Reign, of course, is still the broody professor, but you can clearly see where he is torn in this book. I’m glad he got the good ending. Overall, there was less spice here (but still romance) compared some previous books in the series.
I wasn’t quite as surprised with some of the plot twists in the books as I have been with other books and series by G.K., but I still enjoyed this one for what it was. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
This series definitely took me for a ride! Betrayal, battles, and of course, the usual HEA G.K. is known for in her books.
Aelia has truly come into her own, and it brought me back to where she had started in book one and now here we are with the finale. Reign, of course, is still the broody professor, but you can clearly see where he is torn in this book. I’m glad he got the good ending. Overall, there was less spice here (but still romance) compared some previous books in the series.
I wasn’t quite as surprised with some of the plot twists in the books as I have been with other books and series by G.K., but I still enjoyed this one for what it was. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2025
Book 4 in Courts of Aetheria series
Oh geez! Where do I start? This series consumed me from the beginning with its nail-biting, edge-of-my seat action, secrets and betrayals, twisted intrigue, mind-blowing revelations, swoony moments, and so much more. A truly epic conclusion after an extremely emotional journey. I laughed. I cried. I yelled. I was shocked. My emotions were taken from one extreme to the other, but I truly enjoyed every moment of it. So many obstacles and sacrifices to overcome. Facing the past. Dealing with the present. Looking to the future. This last book was exactly what I needed to put all the puzzle pieces together and tie up any loose ends, not to mention the redemption and family/friend relationships that have been mended and thrived along the way. I can't wait to binge the entire series from start to finish now.
"When the time is right, we'll burn the darkness from this realm. Together."
Oh geez! Where do I start? This series consumed me from the beginning with its nail-biting, edge-of-my seat action, secrets and betrayals, twisted intrigue, mind-blowing revelations, swoony moments, and so much more. A truly epic conclusion after an extremely emotional journey. I laughed. I cried. I yelled. I was shocked. My emotions were taken from one extreme to the other, but I truly enjoyed every moment of it. So many obstacles and sacrifices to overcome. Facing the past. Dealing with the present. Looking to the future. This last book was exactly what I needed to put all the puzzle pieces together and tie up any loose ends, not to mention the redemption and family/friend relationships that have been mended and thrived along the way. I can't wait to binge the entire series from start to finish now.
"When the time is right, we'll burn the darkness from this realm. Together."
November 10, 2025
I’m going to try and keep this as vague as possible to keep spoilers out of it but here are my thoughts….
Bonds was the theme of the story and I loved how we uncovered more about what they could accomplish as the story went on. I loved how Reign found out about his mother and got to know more about his heritage. I loved seeing his bond with Ruhl and how it’s grown over the series. And speaking of Ruhl…. His character growth was amazing. He’s definitely not the same Prince we first meet. The dragons and their story arc was a good surprise.
Then there’s our girl Aelia. She continues to learn and grow in the book. She deals with loss. Familial betrayal (some surprising) and still manages to come out the bad-a she always is. I love her story and watching her embrace all the parts of herself.
I’m not going to spoil the ending but I will say I’d totally read another few chapters picking up where we leave off. Not that it’s not complete, I just wouldn’t be sad about more lol.
Bonds was the theme of the story and I loved how we uncovered more about what they could accomplish as the story went on. I loved how Reign found out about his mother and got to know more about his heritage. I loved seeing his bond with Ruhl and how it’s grown over the series. And speaking of Ruhl…. His character growth was amazing. He’s definitely not the same Prince we first meet. The dragons and their story arc was a good surprise.
Then there’s our girl Aelia. She continues to learn and grow in the book. She deals with loss. Familial betrayal (some surprising) and still manages to come out the bad-a she always is. I love her story and watching her embrace all the parts of herself.
I’m not going to spoil the ending but I will say I’d totally read another few chapters picking up where we leave off. Not that it’s not complete, I just wouldn’t be sad about more lol.
November 18, 2025
This was a fantastic ending to this story, I loved every bit of it. Im a little sad its over but im happy with how it ended. The world building and character development was amazing, I loved watching all the growth in all the characters and their relationships and how they got through everything the had to go through together and they did not give up. There were a few twists and turns throughout, some I predicted but others I did not so I was pleasantly surprised but also shocked at some of the things but they made the story so much more intriguing. The story kept me so enthralled and when I did get a chance to pick up and read I didn't want to put it down. So many ups and downs and emotions and action and adventure it had it all, it was amazing. I am a little sad to say goodbye to Aelia and Reign and all the others but im content with how it was ended. The whole series was so good and I highly reccomend reading it, you wont be disappointed.
November 8, 2025
“You’re my heart,” I whispered through my shadows, barely audible, so that only she could hear. “Don’t makeme watch it walk to its death.”
This quote broke my heart! I'm just absolutely in love with Reign. I love him so much. If you haven't read this series you must. It's a good one. There were a few things I would have liked to see done differently, but still a very enjoyable series. One thing that bothered me is how things with Liora went down. I don't want to give anything away, but I don't understand why the issue wasn't resolved sooner. Something that I really loved in this book was the friend group. I love how they were willing to help no matter what. I want to see Ruhl get a happy ever after. I hope to see him in a future book. I love his character, but I am so glad Aelia and Reign stayed together.
This quote broke my heart! I'm just absolutely in love with Reign. I love him so much. If you haven't read this series you must. It's a good one. There were a few things I would have liked to see done differently, but still a very enjoyable series. One thing that bothered me is how things with Liora went down. I don't want to give anything away, but I don't understand why the issue wasn't resolved sooner. Something that I really loved in this book was the friend group. I love how they were willing to help no matter what. I want to see Ruhl get a happy ever after. I hope to see him in a future book. I love his character, but I am so glad Aelia and Reign stayed together.
October 24, 2025
*ARC Review* The Courts of Aetheria series comes to a close and we can finally be thankful for no cliffhanger! It's a bittersweet knowing the story of Aelia and Reign has ended but I enjoyed the twists that come later in this final book. I enjoyed how things played out for the Infernal Night and I will leave it at that so there's no spoilers! I give this book 1 pepper. The spice is minimal and not very detailed. That doesn't mean the romance isn't very much present throughout the book, as well as the entire series! This holds everything you'd want from a romantasy. I just hope our Ruhl gets his own book <3 Tropes include fated mates, paranormal, age gap, forbidden love, and maybe a tiny bit of love triangle (IYKYK).
November 11, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
Though I’m glad that Reign and Aelia got their happy ending, I was disappointed by how the final book ended. There was too much back and forth and lots of repetitive dialogue. The final battle was highly disappointing as well. In the first three hundred pages, Reign’s character arc took a huge hit; I expected better from him. And Aelia wasn’t any better. With how much power she’d gained, I didn’t expect her to still be so naive. I thought that the last two hundred pages would make up for the first half, but again, that didn't happen. I knew that Loira was a traitorous beehive, that the light fae king couldn't be trusted, and the little plot twist at the end was just meh. I wanted more, not whatever rushed half aşş bs this was.
Though I’m glad that Reign and Aelia got their happy ending, I was disappointed by how the final book ended. There was too much back and forth and lots of repetitive dialogue. The final battle was highly disappointing as well. In the first three hundred pages, Reign’s character arc took a huge hit; I expected better from him. And Aelia wasn’t any better. With how much power she’d gained, I didn’t expect her to still be so naive. I thought that the last two hundred pages would make up for the first half, but again, that didn't happen. I knew that Loira was a traitorous beehive, that the light fae king couldn't be trusted, and the little plot twist at the end was just meh. I wanted more, not whatever rushed half aşş bs this was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2025
What an epic ending to an amazing series.
I cannot believe how much Aelia has grown throughout this story.
She stayed true to herself, even with all the power she gained.
And Reign… I love him with all my heart. He became completely selfless for her—everything he did was for her. Yet he's still the grumpy professor I fell in love with.
Book boyfriends are going to be hard to love after Reign.
I do wish we had a few more bonding moments with Kal and Reign, but I’ll just imagine them myself.
The moment I read the epilogue, I got so emotional and teary-eyed. I’m sad to leave them, but they got the ending they deserved.
Thank you, GK, for this amazing series. I cannot wait to read your next book.
I cannot believe how much Aelia has grown throughout this story.
She stayed true to herself, even with all the power she gained.
And Reign… I love him with all my heart. He became completely selfless for her—everything he did was for her. Yet he's still the grumpy professor I fell in love with.
Book boyfriends are going to be hard to love after Reign.
I do wish we had a few more bonding moments with Kal and Reign, but I’ll just imagine them myself.
The moment I read the epilogue, I got so emotional and teary-eyed. I’m sad to leave them, but they got the ending they deserved.
Thank you, GK, for this amazing series. I cannot wait to read your next book.
October 29, 2025
Crown of Smoke and Starlight is the end of an epic series. And I loved it!! This book was exciting and had me on the edge of my seat! Aelia, has really come into her own. She’s made it known she is more than just a powerless kin. In this final book she finally steps into her own and I couldn’t be happier about it. I really loved Aelia as a character along with her growth, and her overall transformation! I won't forget Reign since he is a hot shadow daddy, along with his brother Ruhl, but Aelia shines and can bring these two to their knees. I’m so here for it! I’m so happy I got to read it early! I could get lost in these characters in this world and I’d be extremely happy!
November 4, 2025
OMG this blew my mind! A truly epic conclusion to this epic series that has had me hooked from the very beginning. With nail biting battles and mind blowing revelations, secrets and lies coming to a head as this author really knows how to draw us in and hold us to the edge of our seat. It’s been one hell of a journey, it’s been exciting, it’s been thrilling and our beloved characters have become like family as we have followed them on their paths through trouble and strife, sacrifices and obstacles. Questions are answered and loose ends are all tied up as we make our way to an incredible and emotional finale.
November 15, 2025
Final part of the court of atheria and what have these characters gone through to get to this point. I have enjoyed the entire series and the story line, plots and secrets were continually keeping you reading for more. Less spice than I had expected but didn’t make it less enjoyable. The bloodline mysteries were unexpected but that tricky one I knew to watch out for at the beginning, they just gave bad vibes. Downside was felt the self sacrificing moments were a constant theme throughout and characters didn’t seem to really grow out of that and became a little tedious in the last book. Apart from that a very enjoyable read
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