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Sins of the Zodiac #3
Cinder Vale
Not yet published
Expected 31 Mar 26From the Amazon. com and Wall Street Journal #1 bestselling authors of the Zodiac Academy series Caroline Peckham & Susanne Valenti.
Secrets lay hidden in the earth.
Fate whispers of it upon the wind.
The ash stirs across the battlefields.
And the ocean rises to watch the cards fall.
**Full blurb coming soon**
***This is an enemies to lovers romantasy series set in the same world as Zodiac Academy, but it's a dark and villainous tale of its own. You haven't met tainted souls like these before or enemies that hate each other as deeply as these characters do. Book 2 in the series will leave you cursing the stars and perhaps the authors too. You'll be left hoarse from screaming profanities and desperate for more of the morally grey Fae who lurk between the pages despite all they’ve done to your poor heart...***
Secrets lay hidden in the earth.
Fate whispers of it upon the wind.
The ash stirs across the battlefields.
And the ocean rises to watch the cards fall.
**Full blurb coming soon**
***This is an enemies to lovers romantasy series set in the same world as Zodiac Academy, but it's a dark and villainous tale of its own. You haven't met tainted souls like these before or enemies that hate each other as deeply as these characters do. Book 2 in the series will leave you cursing the stars and perhaps the authors too. You'll be left hoarse from screaming profanities and desperate for more of the morally grey Fae who lurk between the pages despite all they’ve done to your poor heart...***
688 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 31, 2026
16265 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Peckham
135 books31.2k followersI'm a #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Zodiac Academy series. I write all things dark romance, from fantasy to contemporary, high school bully to mafia, there's bound to be a book for you!
Me and my sister Susanne Valenti now write books together and we've built the most amazing, fun, crazy reader group on Facebook which we would LOVE you to join. Be the first to get teasers of upcoming books, plus interact with us daily, asks us questions, make friends with other book junkies and find your reader home.
Join here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/19697...
Sign up to our newsletter here >>
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
For all business inquiries please contact us at>>
mail@kingshollow.co.uk
For more information, special editions, signed books and more, check out my website here >>
www.kingshollow.co.uk
Me and my sister Susanne Valenti now write books together and we've built the most amazing, fun, crazy reader group on Facebook which we would LOVE you to join. Be the first to get teasers of upcoming books, plus interact with us daily, asks us questions, make friends with other book junkies and find your reader home.
Join here >> https://www.facebook.com/groups/19697...
Sign up to our newsletter here >>
https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
For all business inquiries please contact us at>>
mail@kingshollow.co.uk
For more information, special editions, signed books and more, check out my website here >>
www.kingshollow.co.uk
Ratings & Reviews
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Want to read
July 8, 2025february…. 2026…. FEBRUARY 2026???!!?! idk how i’m gonna wait that long. i’m sat and waiting already
Want to read
July 3, 2025I just finished Echo Fort, I’m emotionally damaged from the ride… how can I wait for again a long time ! 🫠🥴
Kaiser, I love youuuu, I’m coming for ya ! 🏃♀️
Everest, NEVER REST EVEREST, C’mon I thought you were the smartest one. Why didn’t you choose teamwork 😭
Vesper… I’m also so disappointed, show me that we can run free or should I say, fly free 🧚♀️
Bastian, my heart is bleeding, I felt you, it’s just a bad moment 💔
Need this one now !
Kaiser, I love youuuu, I’m coming for ya ! 🏃♀️
Everest, NEVER REST EVEREST, C’mon I thought you were the smartest one. Why didn’t you choose teamwork 😭
Vesper… I’m also so disappointed, show me that we can run free or should I say, fly free 🧚♀️
Bastian, my heart is bleeding, I felt you, it’s just a bad moment 💔
Need this one now !
Want to read
December 30, 2025Coming out March 31
Want to read
November 1, 2025the chokehold kaiser x everest have on me is unreal
March 27, 2026
THAT ENDING!!!!!!!! WHAT DO YOU MEAN!!!!!!!!!!
While I'm SO thankful The Twisted Sisters gifted me a Cinder Vale ARC ahead of its release date, I will NOT know peace until I have book 4 in my hands.
📖 ARC Review 📖
🗓️ Release date: March 31, 2026
I gave both Never Keep and Echo Fort 5 stars, so it's an understatement to say I had very high hopes for this third book. And OH. MY. GOSH. It delivered!! I wasn't bored for a single second. If I didn't have to be a functioning adult, I would've flown through it in a day. Instead, it took me 3 days, which is still a really short period of time given this book is almost 700 pages.
One of the things I love most about this series is the number of battle scenes and how it almost mirrors the "battles" happening within the romance. This series is the definition of action-packed, but I'm not sure what has me more on my toes—the elements at war OR Vesper and Everest putting these men through hell (hehe).
I'd argue no one does TRUE enemies-to-lovers quite like The Twisted Sisters. Not only are we being spoiled with one relationship like this, we have TWO. And I STILL don't entirely know what is happening with one of those relationships.
Also, the redemption arcs in this book?! Only The Twisted Sisters can make me despise a character in one book, then make me want to protect them with my whole being in another. All of these characters must be protected at all costs. It's truly a gift that we get so many POVs.
The Twisted Sisters humor is my humor. The amount of times I was cackling out loud at the most inappropriate of moments. No notes.
A phenomenal third installment to this series. If book 4 (the conclusion) is another 5-star read, this will officially be a 5-star dark fantasy romance series for me.
A sincere thank you to The Nerd Fam and The Twisted Sisters for gifting me an ARC of this book ahead of its March 31, 2026 release.
While I'm SO thankful The Twisted Sisters gifted me a Cinder Vale ARC ahead of its release date, I will NOT know peace until I have book 4 in my hands.
📖 ARC Review 📖
🗓️ Release date: March 31, 2026
I gave both Never Keep and Echo Fort 5 stars, so it's an understatement to say I had very high hopes for this third book. And OH. MY. GOSH. It delivered!! I wasn't bored for a single second. If I didn't have to be a functioning adult, I would've flown through it in a day. Instead, it took me 3 days, which is still a really short period of time given this book is almost 700 pages.
One of the things I love most about this series is the number of battle scenes and how it almost mirrors the "battles" happening within the romance. This series is the definition of action-packed, but I'm not sure what has me more on my toes—the elements at war OR Vesper and Everest putting these men through hell (hehe).
I'd argue no one does TRUE enemies-to-lovers quite like The Twisted Sisters. Not only are we being spoiled with one relationship like this, we have TWO. And I STILL don't entirely know what is happening with one of those relationships.
Also, the redemption arcs in this book?! Only The Twisted Sisters can make me despise a character in one book, then make me want to protect them with my whole being in another. All of these characters must be protected at all costs. It's truly a gift that we get so many POVs.
The Twisted Sisters humor is my humor. The amount of times I was cackling out loud at the most inappropriate of moments. No notes.
A phenomenal third installment to this series. If book 4 (the conclusion) is another 5-star read, this will officially be a 5-star dark fantasy romance series for me.
A sincere thank you to The Nerd Fam and The Twisted Sisters for gifting me an ARC of this book ahead of its March 31, 2026 release.
March 24, 2026
5 vibe read stars omg!! chaotic, addictive, emotionally unwell in the best way
Twisted Sister plots STRIKE AGAIN leaving me feeling like everything I’ve ever known is a lie..
Thank you to NerdFam & Kingshollow for the ARC 🫶
This book is very much a “moving the plot forward but also ruining your sanity” installment. It wasn’t as fast paced with as much going on as in the last book but it was still so amazing and essential to the storyline. The tension?? The relationships brewing?? The absolute hate-fueled simping??? Elite.
The MMCs are out here DOWN BAD in the most chaotic way possible, and I love when characters hate each other as much as they love each other. The dagger scene 👀
And the FMCs??? OBSESSED.
Everest is growing into herself and into her power while Vesper is letting herself be loved a bit while remaining her bada** self.
This book leans more character-driven, but it works so well because everything is building, from the alliances, to the tension to the emotions. And you can feel all the pieces slowly clicking into place.
Also:
-multiple POVs = chaotic perfection
-elemental magic + surprise powers = obsessed
-the yearning, suffering, tension?? I can’t breathe.
And THE ENDING????
I need the next book immediately. Like… yesterday.
Twisted Sister plots STRIKE AGAIN leaving me feeling like everything I’ve ever known is a lie..
Thank you to NerdFam & Kingshollow for the ARC 🫶
This book is very much a “moving the plot forward but also ruining your sanity” installment. It wasn’t as fast paced with as much going on as in the last book but it was still so amazing and essential to the storyline. The tension?? The relationships brewing?? The absolute hate-fueled simping??? Elite.
The MMCs are out here DOWN BAD in the most chaotic way possible, and I love when characters hate each other as much as they love each other. The dagger scene 👀
And the FMCs??? OBSESSED.
Everest is growing into herself and into her power while Vesper is letting herself be loved a bit while remaining her bada** self.
This book leans more character-driven, but it works so well because everything is building, from the alliances, to the tension to the emotions. And you can feel all the pieces slowly clicking into place.
Also:
-multiple POVs = chaotic perfection
-elemental magic + surprise powers = obsessed
-the yearning, suffering, tension?? I can’t breathe.
And THE ENDING????
I need the next book immediately. Like… yesterday.
July 28, 2025
I think about this series everyday lmaooo, I can not wait until Cinder Vale releases in 2026!
*leaving a five star rating bc someone left a 1 star for a book that hasn't even come out yet*
*leaving a five star rating bc someone left a 1 star for a book that hasn't even come out yet*
Want to read
February 8, 2026i love how this is slow burn and all but if they dont get together this book im going to bang my head against the wall for a couple hours bc wtf
March 16, 2026
the friendships and relationships are brewing. the humor is hilarious as always. the plot is definitely developing. BUT UM THE ENDING…. I NEED BOOK 4 IMMEDIATELY!!!!!!
Want to read
June 13, 2025Not me loving this series 🥲 (so much trauma)
Read
March 28, 2026One of the MANY things the Twisted Sisters know how to do it write an incredible enemies to lovers (and utterly deliocious spice!). There were so many plot and relationship developments in this book but the biggest shock was the ending. I literally jumped off my chair and cheered like my fav team just one the World Series. I cannot wait for this book to be released in the world so I can share all my feelings with fellow readers!
Read this for:
-dark romantasy
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-fae & shifters
-badass FMCs
-same universe as Zodiac Academy
-mulit pov
-"who did this?" *ish
-spicy dagger scene
Thank you Nerd Fam and Sisters for this gifted ARC!
Read this for:
-dark romantasy
-enemies to lovers
-forced proximity
-fae & shifters
-badass FMCs
-same universe as Zodiac Academy
-mulit pov
-"who did this?" *ish
-spicy dagger scene
Thank you Nerd Fam and Sisters for this gifted ARC!
Want to read
September 8, 2025This is my favorite series and I can’t wait for the third book to come out! 🥹
Want to read
November 20, 2025pre-read review: 20/11/2025
gonna be twiddling my fucking thumbs until MARCH 2026!!!!!! I need this book like YESTERDAY!
gonna be twiddling my fucking thumbs until MARCH 2026!!!!!! I need this book like YESTERDAY!
March 29, 2026
I finished this book on Tuesday and only now am I finding time to put my thoughts into words because that ending? Yes, even thought it’s a twisted sisters book and they are known for their cliffhangers I was still absolutely mind blown.
Firstly starting off from my thoughts from Echo Fort where I was interested in Septa’s roll in all this she low key is a baddie, and honestly a character I wouldn’t underestimate.
Cinder Vale picks up right where Echo Fort ends and let’s just say a lot is revealed in those final chapters but the pretence is still the same and that being this worlds elements are at war but another enemy is lurking beneath the surface and throughout this book enemies are becoming allies with likely and unlikely alliances being struck.
Now let’s look at our MC’s:
Vesper & Bastian
• We were absolutely fed when it came to these two. At the end of Echo Fort these two went from enemies to allies back to enemies so I was curious as to how these two were gonna go in Cinder Vale but oh boy nothing prepared me. They just could not keep away from one another. Bastian knows Vesper is truly capable of looking after herself, I mean she is the ruthless Sky Witch after all but who doesn’t love an overprotective dragon because that was certainly how I would describe Bastian in this book.
Kaiser & Everest:
• Now after some revelations and especially the ending of Echo Fort I had a feeling these two would revert back into enemy territory but it certainly isn’t the way you would think. Kaiser has to learn to adapt once again after something is long returned to him unknowingly because of Everests actions. Even with his feelings in unknown territory he still sends calcifiend after her to keep a close eye on her when they are apart. I mean if that isn’t a man obsessed I don’t know what is🤷🏻♀️.
I love both these couples equally and I’m nervous and curious as to where the authors are going to take their stories in the final book 😅
Vesper and Everest both had their parts to play in this book. Both our FMCs are equally important to defeating what is coming and it was great to see them on their own adventures but ultimately coming together. Both FMCs grow a lot more in this book while also remaining guarded and look I don’t blame them everything in this world is fragile and all it takes is one betrayal but at times we do see them lower their guard whether that is with each other or with those around them.
Now a shocker for me is Ransom’s character development- I know I know but read the book and hear me out 👀
Galomp and North, lol still my fav side characters. Looking at you Caroline and Susanne don’t touch them🫣.
Also two characters, an unlikely pairing that I am currently shipping because of this book. We see some snarky back and forth between them. But let’s see if something happens 🤭
At the end of this book we can start to see the everything starting to come together and gear up for that battle that we know is looming on the horizon. Yes it’s a fantasy book so a final battle is evident here. I will be thinking about this book until the final book comes out next year. Thank you so much to the authors who provided this arc for my honest thoughts 💭
Firstly starting off from my thoughts from Echo Fort where I was interested in Septa’s roll in all this she low key is a baddie, and honestly a character I wouldn’t underestimate.
Cinder Vale picks up right where Echo Fort ends and let’s just say a lot is revealed in those final chapters but the pretence is still the same and that being this worlds elements are at war but another enemy is lurking beneath the surface and throughout this book enemies are becoming allies with likely and unlikely alliances being struck.
Now let’s look at our MC’s:
Vesper & Bastian
• We were absolutely fed when it came to these two. At the end of Echo Fort these two went from enemies to allies back to enemies so I was curious as to how these two were gonna go in Cinder Vale but oh boy nothing prepared me. They just could not keep away from one another. Bastian knows Vesper is truly capable of looking after herself, I mean she is the ruthless Sky Witch after all but who doesn’t love an overprotective dragon because that was certainly how I would describe Bastian in this book.
Kaiser & Everest:
• Now after some revelations and especially the ending of Echo Fort I had a feeling these two would revert back into enemy territory but it certainly isn’t the way you would think. Kaiser has to learn to adapt once again after something is long returned to him unknowingly because of Everests actions. Even with his feelings in unknown territory he still sends calcifiend after her to keep a close eye on her when they are apart. I mean if that isn’t a man obsessed I don’t know what is🤷🏻♀️.
I love both these couples equally and I’m nervous and curious as to where the authors are going to take their stories in the final book 😅
Vesper and Everest both had their parts to play in this book. Both our FMCs are equally important to defeating what is coming and it was great to see them on their own adventures but ultimately coming together. Both FMCs grow a lot more in this book while also remaining guarded and look I don’t blame them everything in this world is fragile and all it takes is one betrayal but at times we do see them lower their guard whether that is with each other or with those around them.
Now a shocker for me is Ransom’s character development- I know I know but read the book and hear me out 👀
Galomp and North, lol still my fav side characters. Looking at you Caroline and Susanne don’t touch them🫣.
Also two characters, an unlikely pairing that I am currently shipping because of this book. We see some snarky back and forth between them. But let’s see if something happens 🤭
At the end of this book we can start to see the everything starting to come together and gear up for that battle that we know is looming on the horizon. Yes it’s a fantasy book so a final battle is evident here. I will be thinking about this book until the final book comes out next year. Thank you so much to the authors who provided this arc for my honest thoughts 💭
March 24, 2026
No because that ending!!?? 🫢
March 19, 2026
"I am the void!" 🤣 literally poor Everest throughout the entire book, the girl finally got some power and she is making sure EVERYONE knows this. I love it!
The girl also has serious daddy issues 👀🤭
If you are here you have read book 1 (Never Keep) & book 2 (Echo Fort) so will try and keep it spoiler free 🤷🏻♀️ after the cliffhanger of Echo Fort, the sisters sends us of on another journey where Vesper and Everest paths cross again but they each have their own side missions. Vesper has betrayed Bastian and Everest has finally avenged her mum's death. She is now the void and daddy loves her again and she is thriving... or is she?? She spills her heart to her seer dragon, Calcifiend who has totally proven how loyal he has been in the past 🫣
Cinder Vale is exactly what you would expect of a 3rd installment of a 4 book series (confirmed by the sisters for now) and it keeps building out the story line with most of the excitement happening towards the end. And what in the marvel universe was that ending. Not quite ZA7 but I was definitely texting some people wtf wtf wtf when I read that last few chapters.
The tropes from books 1 & 2 continue with the found family being the most prominent and some of the enemies finally become lovers 🔥🔥🔥
Some of my favourite bits and thoughts that are not quite spoilers but read at your own peril.... okay actually these are spoilers now that I have finished writing them so please only take a peak if you want to know more than you should!
The question is, do you need to read Zodiac Academy to read this series? The answer up until now was no. BUT, I think a ZA read might be a good idea... anyone up for a buddy reread?? 👀
Would I recommend it to a friend? YES, what do you need me to say to convince you, because I will.
Thank you you to Caroline & Susanne for sending me a physical ARC of Cinder Vale in exchange for an honest review. I love your work and you have yet to dissapoint me - thank you! Forever a fan 🦑
PS. Make sure to read the author's note at the end 🫶🏻
The girl also has serious daddy issues 👀🤭
If you are here you have read book 1 (Never Keep) & book 2 (Echo Fort) so will try and keep it spoiler free 🤷🏻♀️ after the cliffhanger of Echo Fort, the sisters sends us of on another journey where Vesper and Everest paths cross again but they each have their own side missions. Vesper has betrayed Bastian and Everest has finally avenged her mum's death. She is now the void and daddy loves her again and she is thriving... or is she?? She spills her heart to her seer dragon, Calcifiend who has totally proven how loyal he has been in the past 🫣
Cinder Vale is exactly what you would expect of a 3rd installment of a 4 book series (confirmed by the sisters for now) and it keeps building out the story line with most of the excitement happening towards the end. And what in the marvel universe was that ending. Not quite ZA7 but I was definitely texting some people wtf wtf wtf when I read that last few chapters.
The tropes from books 1 & 2 continue with the found family being the most prominent and some of the enemies finally become lovers 🔥🔥🔥
Some of my favourite bits and thoughts that are not quite spoilers but read at your own peril.... okay actually these are spoilers now that I have finished writing them so please only take a peak if you want to know more than you should!
The question is, do you need to read Zodiac Academy to read this series? The answer up until now was no. BUT, I think a ZA read might be a good idea... anyone up for a buddy reread?? 👀
Would I recommend it to a friend? YES, what do you need me to say to convince you, because I will.
Thank you you to Caroline & Susanne for sending me a physical ARC of Cinder Vale in exchange for an honest review. I love your work and you have yet to dissapoint me - thank you! Forever a fan 🦑
PS. Make sure to read the author's note at the end 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh how beautiful this book is. quality is unmatched in my opinion. But let's get in to the story.
Dragor is a d**k.
Im glad Vesper is slowing coming to her senses.
Everest needs to grow a back bone against her farther and stick to it I'm sick of her not realising her potential and that she is still being manipulated.
Why is everest so gullable, it's painful to read. Although her talking with Calcified,i do love. I hope Kaiser is listening. Not that the man needs an ego boost but will forever be rooting for them
Vesper is my favourite, FINALLY closing herself, she shouldn't have been the pet to be bossed around by others. Doesnt match her personality. Everest on the other hand still needs to get a grip of her ego.
Vesper shifting gutted me! How f*cked up. Bastions instant anger for her, just keeps the yearning for them to be together alive. But of course, the little hellion already got her justice on them. We love the vengeance from her!
I am liking this new Kaiser but am waiting for him to become his brutal self again but just with feeling behind it. Getting a glimpse here and there but I need more!
Would it have killed the sisters to have also written Bastion's scene using blood magic from Vespers point of view. I have a filling it was boardline desperation to get him back.
Ok a read on and very happy with how the chapter ended. Bastian is committed to wanting/following Vesper.
Now need more Kaiser and Everest. And Vesper and Everest, I like them around each other. Harlon i still don't really care for.
I repeat my earlier statement Dragor is a d*ck. But I seem to like Evard for now at least, feeling to good to be true at this point.
Ok Kaiser has it down for epic love declaration, Bridgestone eat you heart out. God forbid they get there full moment though.
Bastion and Vesper give me tingles. There love story is coming out so sweet how he treats her like a person and not a valuable.
GO EVEREST, GO EVEREST. She FINALLY sees how bad of a person Rake is and needing your father's approval is not worth your morals. Ended him in epic proportions. Loved this chapter.
I should have seen the kings death and new heir scene coming. I thought it would drag out a little further and hoped Evard would ahve been chosen. Still think he will end up being king when all this comes to fruition. Dragor is a bor, I don't find anything he does interesting. He could happily not exist to me
We have cross over, i repeat we have cross over with zodiac academy/ruthless boys. Why is there stardust?
Vesper and Everest are definitely nebula allies. I like there littler friend ship. Also north is giving seth vibes almost always - such a cute little puppy dog.
Honestly Vesper depression is warranty but get it together, big strong independent spray lady to all should be on the verge of giving up multiple times. Thank god for Septa coming in clutch to save them both or there wouldn't be much point left to this. Hopefully at this point Vesper will realise she has more to live for than her grief.
When will Everest and Kaiser get a full hour together. Damnnnn I need more of them.
Ok that ending was a suprise to me! First where is Harlon, why didn't north get to the in time - not that he could have helped but didn't seem like it would take that long. 3rd who are the 3 that came to help. Im assuming Darcy, Roxy and Nox maybe? Only got this thought from the authors notes right at the back.
Can't wait for more cross overs! I was thinking this was set before zodiac academy but interesting it's actually after it. Also who else could be apart of the final book.
Also I hope both Bastian and Vesper and Everest and Kaiser get to be elysian mates.
Dragor is a d**k.
Im glad Vesper is slowing coming to her senses.
Everest needs to grow a back bone against her farther and stick to it I'm sick of her not realising her potential and that she is still being manipulated.
Why is everest so gullable, it's painful to read. Although her talking with Calcified,i do love. I hope Kaiser is listening. Not that the man needs an ego boost but will forever be rooting for them
Vesper is my favourite, FINALLY closing herself, she shouldn't have been the pet to be bossed around by others. Doesnt match her personality. Everest on the other hand still needs to get a grip of her ego.
Vesper shifting gutted me! How f*cked up. Bastions instant anger for her, just keeps the yearning for them to be together alive. But of course, the little hellion already got her justice on them. We love the vengeance from her!
I am liking this new Kaiser but am waiting for him to become his brutal self again but just with feeling behind it. Getting a glimpse here and there but I need more!
Would it have killed the sisters to have also written Bastion's scene using blood magic from Vespers point of view. I have a filling it was boardline desperation to get him back.
Ok a read on and very happy with how the chapter ended. Bastian is committed to wanting/following Vesper.
Now need more Kaiser and Everest. And Vesper and Everest, I like them around each other. Harlon i still don't really care for.
I repeat my earlier statement Dragor is a d*ck. But I seem to like Evard for now at least, feeling to good to be true at this point.
Ok Kaiser has it down for epic love declaration, Bridgestone eat you heart out. God forbid they get there full moment though.
Bastion and Vesper give me tingles. There love story is coming out so sweet how he treats her like a person and not a valuable.
GO EVEREST, GO EVEREST. She FINALLY sees how bad of a person Rake is and needing your father's approval is not worth your morals. Ended him in epic proportions. Loved this chapter.
I should have seen the kings death and new heir scene coming. I thought it would drag out a little further and hoped Evard would ahve been chosen. Still think he will end up being king when all this comes to fruition. Dragor is a bor, I don't find anything he does interesting. He could happily not exist to me
We have cross over, i repeat we have cross over with zodiac academy/ruthless boys. Why is there stardust?
Vesper and Everest are definitely nebula allies. I like there littler friend ship. Also north is giving seth vibes almost always - such a cute little puppy dog.
Honestly Vesper depression is warranty but get it together, big strong independent spray lady to all should be on the verge of giving up multiple times. Thank god for Septa coming in clutch to save them both or there wouldn't be much point left to this. Hopefully at this point Vesper will realise she has more to live for than her grief.
When will Everest and Kaiser get a full hour together. Damnnnn I need more of them.
Ok that ending was a suprise to me! First where is Harlon, why didn't north get to the in time - not that he could have helped but didn't seem like it would take that long. 3rd who are the 3 that came to help. Im assuming Darcy, Roxy and Nox maybe? Only got this thought from the authors notes right at the back.
Can't wait for more cross overs! I was thinking this was set before zodiac academy but interesting it's actually after it. Also who else could be apart of the final book.
Also I hope both Bastian and Vesper and Everest and Kaiser get to be elysian mates.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Nothing. No other book written by The Twisted Sisters before. Will prepare you. For the ending. Of this one.
I finished this book days ago.
l've been in a fog ever since.
This book is almost 700 pages. I read it in two days. I was glued to the pages.
And the cliffhanger has almost made it IMPOSSIBLE for me to pick up another book. Do with that information what you will...
I can confidently say that this is one of if not my top favorite romantasy series of all time.
l've officially realized that this is the slowest burn romance... I've ever read. l've never been so frustrated with how slow the romance is progressing and then when I think about that I go... this is exactly what you wanted LAUREN!
I want a slow burn that spans several books.
And that is exactly what I have been given.
This is the torment I asked for.
This is the torment I begged for.
And I'm loving every minute of it.
War is rising. Secrets are stirring. And fate is beginning to feel like a lie.
Caught between loyalty and truth, she's walking a dangerous line... one that could brand her a traitor. But the real threat? The man she's supposed to hate... and can't stop craving.
Dark desires. Forbidden love. A destiny unraveling. In a world of twisted Fae and ruthless enemies, choosing your heart might cost you everything...
The way the authors are able to write such an intricate world with so much trauma and heartache and passion, and the romance is so deep... it makes me dizzy… I’m blown away.
It's hard to read this book and just go... that was a spicy good time... it's so much more if you are reading through a lens that allows you to examine the story very deeply.
It is fantasy at its finest with romance and yearning that is... truly not the main focus if I'm being honest... but when it shows up..it absolutely shows up. And blows you away.
And every one of those moments is interwoven so well into the story... every intimate scene pushes the plot forward and shows growth in these characters that is just an absolute joy to witness.
I love the fierce female main characters SO MUCH. I've never been so enthralled by a story that has so many different POVs. It's so exciting to turn the page and not know who's eyes you're going to see through next, and I just felt elation the entire time I was reading this book and I FLEW through it.
Something I really love is that this book teaches you to examine the people that are different from you through a lens of curiosity before fear.
And I love that at the heart of this story... it's about learning through other's experiences that we are not as different as we think we are. We have far more in common with each other than we do against each other.
I love the found family element of the story, and love the fact that people are given the opportunity to change their mind. Change their path. Change their course.
You don't always have to follow what is expected of you. You need to follow your heart. You need to follow what keeps you true to yourself.
Finding things to hold on to. People to hold on to and love.
That life is worth it even if it's hard. I'm going to make myself cry again.
You know what I've hyped myself up so much with this review... I’m going to go read it again right now. This book comes out TUESDAY happy reading!
Sort of... good luck is more appropriate...
I finished this book days ago.
l've been in a fog ever since.
This book is almost 700 pages. I read it in two days. I was glued to the pages.
And the cliffhanger has almost made it IMPOSSIBLE for me to pick up another book. Do with that information what you will...
I can confidently say that this is one of if not my top favorite romantasy series of all time.
l've officially realized that this is the slowest burn romance... I've ever read. l've never been so frustrated with how slow the romance is progressing and then when I think about that I go... this is exactly what you wanted LAUREN!
I want a slow burn that spans several books.
And that is exactly what I have been given.
This is the torment I asked for.
This is the torment I begged for.
And I'm loving every minute of it.
War is rising. Secrets are stirring. And fate is beginning to feel like a lie.
Caught between loyalty and truth, she's walking a dangerous line... one that could brand her a traitor. But the real threat? The man she's supposed to hate... and can't stop craving.
Dark desires. Forbidden love. A destiny unraveling. In a world of twisted Fae and ruthless enemies, choosing your heart might cost you everything...
The way the authors are able to write such an intricate world with so much trauma and heartache and passion, and the romance is so deep... it makes me dizzy… I’m blown away.
It's hard to read this book and just go... that was a spicy good time... it's so much more if you are reading through a lens that allows you to examine the story very deeply.
It is fantasy at its finest with romance and yearning that is... truly not the main focus if I'm being honest... but when it shows up..it absolutely shows up. And blows you away.
And every one of those moments is interwoven so well into the story... every intimate scene pushes the plot forward and shows growth in these characters that is just an absolute joy to witness.
I love the fierce female main characters SO MUCH. I've never been so enthralled by a story that has so many different POVs. It's so exciting to turn the page and not know who's eyes you're going to see through next, and I just felt elation the entire time I was reading this book and I FLEW through it.
Something I really love is that this book teaches you to examine the people that are different from you through a lens of curiosity before fear.
And I love that at the heart of this story... it's about learning through other's experiences that we are not as different as we think we are. We have far more in common with each other than we do against each other.
I love the found family element of the story, and love the fact that people are given the opportunity to change their mind. Change their path. Change their course.
You don't always have to follow what is expected of you. You need to follow your heart. You need to follow what keeps you true to yourself.
Finding things to hold on to. People to hold on to and love.
That life is worth it even if it's hard. I'm going to make myself cry again.
You know what I've hyped myself up so much with this review... I’m going to go read it again right now. This book comes out TUESDAY happy reading!
Sort of... good luck is more appropriate...
Review of advance copy received from Author
4 ⭐️
Thank you to the authors for this ARC. Cinder Vale releases March 31st.
Book 3 in the sins of zodiac series.
Same world as ZA; you do not need to read ZA prior but there are Easter eggs you’ll pick up on if you do read it.
Overall, happy to be back. The sisters are so creative. This is a more high fantasy world with little romance subplot. There’s some tension and yearning but it’s mainly political and world building. I found the pacing to be slower with this book, I felt like for 50% of it we were running around in circles. It wasn’t until the final 25% where things started kicking off (true sisters form). This book I think will be the book that’s the in between that sets up for a possible final book. A lot of much needed information and build up. A lot of leaving us hanging. A couple questions answered, with more questions asked. I’d say all my previous theories can go out the window because the sisters took us down a different path than I thought they would. Which is a pleasant surprise. I’m glad this isn’t turning into a predictable read. Maybe trim the fat a bit and it could have been a 5 ⭐️ read for me. North and Kaiser on page kept me going thru the slower chapters.
Thank you to the authors for this ARC. Cinder Vale releases March 31st.
Book 3 in the sins of zodiac series.
Same world as ZA; you do not need to read ZA prior but there are Easter eggs you’ll pick up on if you do read it.
Overall, happy to be back. The sisters are so creative. This is a more high fantasy world with little romance subplot. There’s some tension and yearning but it’s mainly political and world building. I found the pacing to be slower with this book, I felt like for 50% of it we were running around in circles. It wasn’t until the final 25% where things started kicking off (true sisters form). This book I think will be the book that’s the in between that sets up for a possible final book. A lot of much needed information and build up. A lot of leaving us hanging. A couple questions answered, with more questions asked. I’d say all my previous theories can go out the window because the sisters took us down a different path than I thought they would. Which is a pleasant surprise. I’m glad this isn’t turning into a predictable read. Maybe trim the fat a bit and it could have been a 5 ⭐️ read for me. North and Kaiser on page kept me going thru the slower chapters.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
5/5⭐️
2/5🌶️
I dove right into Cinder Vale after bingeing Never Keep and Echo Fort AND THANK THE LAWD because I couldn’t want to dive back into this story! I’m actually obsessed with Vesper, and especially her and Bastian’s story. So much strife, suffering, yearnin’ and burnin’… SO satisfactory! Couple that with my NEED for Vesper to get retribution against FKA Cayde, and I was absolutely feral for every chapter from her POV. So many different players in this story, so many pieces slowly converging together towards the end. I was positively QUIVERING in anticipation to see how this story ended. I knew the Twister Sisters were known for their cliffys so I had so much anticipation about seeing where we wound up. I had the best time reading this book!! 684 pages, but I positively flew through it. CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT THEY COOK UP IN THE NEXT ONE!
What I Loved About This Story:
✨Reluctant allies to lovers
✨All of the different elemental magic and surprise powers
✨So, so many POVs that immensely fun!
✨Though she was THICC I FLEW through it!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via The NerdFam, but my review is all my own.
2/5🌶️
I dove right into Cinder Vale after bingeing Never Keep and Echo Fort AND THANK THE LAWD because I couldn’t want to dive back into this story! I’m actually obsessed with Vesper, and especially her and Bastian’s story. So much strife, suffering, yearnin’ and burnin’… SO satisfactory! Couple that with my NEED for Vesper to get retribution against FKA Cayde, and I was absolutely feral for every chapter from her POV. So many different players in this story, so many pieces slowly converging together towards the end. I was positively QUIVERING in anticipation to see how this story ended. I knew the Twister Sisters were known for their cliffys so I had so much anticipation about seeing where we wound up. I had the best time reading this book!! 684 pages, but I positively flew through it. CAN’T WAIT TO SEE WHAT THEY COOK UP IN THE NEXT ONE!
What I Loved About This Story:
✨Reluctant allies to lovers
✨All of the different elemental magic and surprise powers
✨So, so many POVs that immensely fun!
✨Though she was THICC I FLEW through it!
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book via The NerdFam, but my review is all my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
twisted sister plots will have you wondering if you ever knew anything about anything bc… HUH
first, thank you to the NerdFam and Kingshollow publishing for this ARC!
ok second, the mmc’s in this series really star to stunt out on these hoes in this book. i loooove when characters hatefully simp for each other and that’s what this whole book is, lmao i ate it UP!! let’s just say there is a hate-filled dagger scene that will live in my head rent free for the rest of my days, hehe.
third, MY FMC’S!!!! they really start to absolutely shine in this book for the right reasons, i’m obsessed with both of them. Everest is finally coming in to herself and her powers, and Vesper was already a baddie but thank god she’s letting herself be loved a lil bit.
this is a definitely “moving the plot forward” kind of book, not as much happens as the second book, but i loved that we focused more on the characters here. it makes sense for the story!
4.5 stars, so much fun!!! i can’t wait for the final installment.
first, thank you to the NerdFam and Kingshollow publishing for this ARC!
ok second, the mmc’s in this series really star to stunt out on these hoes in this book. i loooove when characters hatefully simp for each other and that’s what this whole book is, lmao i ate it UP!! let’s just say there is a hate-filled dagger scene that will live in my head rent free for the rest of my days, hehe.
third, MY FMC’S!!!! they really start to absolutely shine in this book for the right reasons, i’m obsessed with both of them. Everest is finally coming in to herself and her powers, and Vesper was already a baddie but thank god she’s letting herself be loved a lil bit.
this is a definitely “moving the plot forward” kind of book, not as much happens as the second book, but i loved that we focused more on the characters here. it makes sense for the story!
4.5 stars, so much fun!!! i can’t wait for the final installment.
March 29, 2026
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Fantasy Romance, MF, Academy, Dark, Shifters, Enemies to Lovers
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Multiple
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Paperback ARC
Please excuse me while I process whatever the F that ending was! The sisters have teased that they have been planning the end of this book from the very start… and oh boy… was that a cliff to override all other cliffs of theirs. Seriously, this might be my favorite cliff to hang from, and I lived thought he live release of both ZA4 & ZA7.
This book is chock full of character growth, not too surprising as it is book 3 of 4, and eventually the characters need to attempt to sort their shenanigans out. You have the classic growth of the two main characters who are starting to figure out that the world is very much not how it seems. But then you had some surprising development from a side character that I am really excited to see how this goes. Plus the tension this individual has with another member of Pyros. Don’t mind me and my shipping over here.
Seriously, this book was so good that I ran out of stars to give it. 100% a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➕➕➕ star read for me.
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Multiple
𝗙𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝘁: Paperback ARC
Please excuse me while I process whatever the F that ending was! The sisters have teased that they have been planning the end of this book from the very start… and oh boy… was that a cliff to override all other cliffs of theirs. Seriously, this might be my favorite cliff to hang from, and I lived thought he live release of both ZA4 & ZA7.
This book is chock full of character growth, not too surprising as it is book 3 of 4, and eventually the characters need to attempt to sort their shenanigans out. You have the classic growth of the two main characters who are starting to figure out that the world is very much not how it seems. But then you had some surprising development from a side character that I am really excited to see how this goes. Plus the tension this individual has with another member of Pyros. Don’t mind me and my shipping over here.
Seriously, this book was so good that I ran out of stars to give it. 100% a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➕➕➕ star read for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: 4 Stars 🔥🌊🍃💨
This was a great read and soo worth the wait. The pacing was perfect. The humour was perfect. I loved the progression of the slow burn. The writing felt polished and balanced - there wasn’t too much filler. It wasn’t quite as emotionally damaging or as Echo Fort, but it was still a satisfying instalment.
I loved seeing Everest and Vesper’s friendship truly blossom.
Everest finally began to wise up.
Vesper learned to be more vulnerable. - This was very satisfying.
I enjoyed Rake’s character growth.
Kaiser and Rake had me cracking up! - I am foreseeing that Rake and North are going to be a thing.
We finally got to see some romantic progress between Everest and Kaiser! But damn the uhhh knife scene did made me cringe.
Bastian and Vesper’s stolen moments had me kicking my feet.
We finally found out who the big bad is… I can’t wait to see how all of that unfolds. - I have soo many burning questions!
And lastly… That ZA cameo at the end had me shook!
I don’t know how I’m going to handle waiting a whole year for the final book!
This was a great read and soo worth the wait. The pacing was perfect. The humour was perfect. I loved the progression of the slow burn. The writing felt polished and balanced - there wasn’t too much filler. It wasn’t quite as emotionally damaging or as Echo Fort, but it was still a satisfying instalment.
I loved seeing Everest and Vesper’s friendship truly blossom.
Everest finally began to wise up.
Vesper learned to be more vulnerable. - This was very satisfying.
I enjoyed Rake’s character growth.
Kaiser and Rake had me cracking up! - I am foreseeing that Rake and North are going to be a thing.
We finally got to see some romantic progress between Everest and Kaiser! But damn the uhhh knife scene did made me cringe.
Bastian and Vesper’s stolen moments had me kicking my feet.
We finally found out who the big bad is… I can’t wait to see how all of that unfolds. - I have soo many burning questions!
And lastly… That ZA cameo at the end had me shook!
I don’t know how I’m going to handle waiting a whole year for the final book!
Review of advance copy
I will always be a fan of the Twisted Sisters, but this book has elevated the entire Sins of the Zodiac series to God tier status. While I enjoyed Never Keep and Echo Fort, Cinder Vale is by far the best, most interesting, and exciting book in the series. I never thought the day would come that I didn’t think Everest was completely insufferable and annoying, but through these pages she really has become a force to be admired. I absolutely loved the relationships and camaraderie that developed between several of the characters, new and old, throughout. Also, the Easter eggs were killing me. IYKYK. Then, there is that ending!!! The sisters are incredible at writing a great ending, but this one is perfection. Just when I thought I’d figured out what their twist was going to be, they switched it up and blew my theory right out of the water…and across the room. Truly one of their best books ever. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was incredibly lucky and grateful to receive an ARC.
I was incredibly lucky and grateful to receive an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm still pinching myself that I got an ARC for this and will forever cherish it! Thanks again for the opportunity! It took me on an emotional rollercoaster with some surprising twists.
The secrets and lies and the way the mmcs are written are so delicious. The warring factions and in depth world building is from the mind of geniuses. Nobody can do enemies to lovers like these two! They did a great job balancing all the characters, with multiple pov providing insight into each mind. There is magic in these words. I'm so obsessed! The twisted sisters proved their names with that cliffhanger. I'm FERAL for book 4!
The secrets and lies and the way the mmcs are written are so delicious. The warring factions and in depth world building is from the mind of geniuses. Nobody can do enemies to lovers like these two! They did a great job balancing all the characters, with multiple pov providing insight into each mind. There is magic in these words. I'm so obsessed! The twisted sisters proved their names with that cliffhanger. I'm FERAL for book 4!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I knew this book was going to be classic Twisted Sisters but I NEED BOOK 4 IMMEDIATELY.
Cinder Vale by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti is an addictive, character-driven powerhouse. I thought it was a bit slower than Echo Fort, but it was absolutely essential for the overarching plot, expertly building tension, alliances, and emotional stakes.
The authors deliver their signature mind-bending plot twists alongside top-tier enemies-to-lovers romance and fantastic character growth for both the male and female leads, especially as Everest finds her power and Vesper learns to open up. A perfectly chaotic and emotionally intense read!
Cinder Vale by Caroline Peckham and Susanne Valenti is an addictive, character-driven powerhouse. I thought it was a bit slower than Echo Fort, but it was absolutely essential for the overarching plot, expertly building tension, alliances, and emotional stakes.
The authors deliver their signature mind-bending plot twists alongside top-tier enemies-to-lovers romance and fantastic character growth for both the male and female leads, especially as Everest finds her power and Vesper learns to open up. A perfectly chaotic and emotionally intense read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
**Was lucky to be gifted an ARC by the Twisted Sisters and this is my honest review**
This book?? RUDE. In the best way.
The Twisted Sisters really said “let’s emotionally destroy our readers” and I, for one, fell right into the trap. The twists? Epic. The angst? Painful. The slow-burn tension? Chef’s kiss.
And just when you think you can breathe ... That ending. Absolute chaos! The cliffhanger is criminal and I need answers immediately.
Also… those final chapters … I actually had to put the book down and process. And question my sanity. Did the sisters really just do that?! Iconic.
Final verdict: devastating, addictive, and completely unputdownable. 10/10, would suffer again.
This book?? RUDE. In the best way.
The Twisted Sisters really said “let’s emotionally destroy our readers” and I, for one, fell right into the trap. The twists? Epic. The angst? Painful. The slow-burn tension? Chef’s kiss.
And just when you think you can breathe ... That ending. Absolute chaos! The cliffhanger is criminal and I need answers immediately.
Also… those final chapters … I actually had to put the book down and process. And question my sanity. Did the sisters really just do that?! Iconic.
Final verdict: devastating, addictive, and completely unputdownable. 10/10, would suffer again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a masterpiece on keeping the tension going… I mean hells bells are the enemies going to become real lovers. But I’m here for it and all the new perspectives and plot pieces coming together. This book gave us just enough light relief and added quite a few new dimensions to consider and Im really appreciate the FMCs dominating in their own right.
I have not read ZA but will 💯 be diving in as I can see the loop together coming. I didn’t find this book quite as pace-y as book 2 but I was entertained.
4.25 for me
I have not read ZA but will 💯 be diving in as I can see the loop together coming. I didn’t find this book quite as pace-y as book 2 but I was entertained.
4.25 for me
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got myself an ARC copy and lovedddd it! The twisted sisters strike again! Brilliant story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely love this series. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and cannot wait until the next book!!!
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