The Illumination

by Asher D. Payne

After the Fall, the last remnants of humanity cling to the illusion of safety the fortified walls cast. The world beyond is a wasteland deemed unsafe by government officials, and overrun by the infected—Runners, Rebels and Scavengers—the results of failed experimentation and burning opposition.

As a Venturer, Astrid is one of the few wearing the badge of protection, daring to face the dangers of the Wilds on missions sanctioned by authorities. Delving further into their webs of secrecy, she begins to question the intentions of those in power.

When Astrid crosses paths with the Most Wanted power user, a man whose name sparks rebellion, the fragile lines between enemy and ally blur. To protect those she loves, Astrid may have to confront not only the horrors of the Wilds, but the shadows of her own secrets, and the man who holds the key to unraveling them.

Genres: Dystopia

614 pages, Paperback

Published June 10, 2025

About the author

Asher D. Payne has been writing since she can remember, desiring nothing more than putting her imagination on paper for others to enjoy. She has a passion for storytelling that compels readers and makes them feel seen, heard, and understood while implementing every twist and turn along the way. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, she strives to bring relationships into her books that stray from the stereotypes displayed in other forms of media. Her step toward her writing career has been a big challenge in overcoming her neurodivergence and other traumas experienced through online bullying. She is determined to make her community safe, inclusive, and accepting of all, as she feels everyone deserves to have a voice in this world. When she isn't engrossed in writing, she enjoys reading from her endless TBR list, playing with her pitbull, hitting the gym, refining her self-defense skills, snowboarding, or healing others through the art of massage.

Reviews

[BONNIE SMITH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Did you sleep at all?"

That's what my husband said to me this morning as I groggily attempted to make coffee. What, you may ask, has caused me to miss precious sleep and curse at my nespresso machine this morning?

The Illumination by Asher D. Payne to be exact. When I saw this dystopian novel was available through Inkspire, I could not click "sign up here" fast enough. Dystopian worlds always get me, and this- it actually consumed me.

I went in almost totally blind, and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND you do so also- every minute of this story's unfolding had me riveted and even audibly gasping in the dark. And, yes- I stayed up all night to finish it.

I've already got the hardcover edition (and it's sequel) headed to me, this is must for my library!

[Nada Nour El Hak · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️ THIS IS HOW YOUR WRITE A DYSTOPIAN STORY, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN!!!👏🏽 There is so much I want to say yet no words can describe how this book made me feel. Without sharing ANYTHING about the book, because lets be honest, if you go in blind, I swear the reward is soooooooo effing worth it.. - Lets just say that I’m not one to compare one story to another but this felt reminiscing to one of my favorite series - the Hunger games, not in the story itself which is completely different, but in the way it makes you feel SO DEEPLY not only for the main characters, but also for the side characters. The found family is EXQUISITEEEEEE and I just know my heart will rip out if something happens to any of them. What an incredible start to a journey that has just begun and hasn’t unfolded half of what to expect. I cannot wait to pick up book 2, to continue this adventures with so many layers and a world that I know will continue to expand. The amount of « OH MY GOD » I gasped throughout my reading is a testament of how perfectly timed the little crumbs were thrown our way, knowing Im usually the type who picks up easily on plot twist early in a story. Last but not least, my heart has been RIPPED apart so many times, I don’t think it can qualify as one anymore. What a true masterpiece. ❤️‍🩹

[Bree ♡︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝘏𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘮𝘪𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳.”

This book was absolutely incredible. The writing alone, is astonishing. The descriptions of the world and the disease that ruined everything, and attention to detail gripped me from the very beginning. Dystopian is one of my favorite genres, and it was done beautifully. The found family aspect had me hooooked, I absolutely adored the relationships between most of the characters.

When Asher says not to trust anyone, LISTEN. Because what do you actually mean?!?! I was minding my business for the first 40% and got smacked in the face with so much betrayal it actually physically pained me.😃 My guard was up for the remainder of the book and I still don’t know what the hell actually happened. INCREDIBLE. The way everything was laid out so perfectly is exactly what got me and made me feel like I was being stabbed in the back repeatedly.😃 (in the best way possible.)

Anyways, Onyx Oakes can flip through my mind anytime.🤸🏻‍♀️ That man is SO FINE. All I’m saying is, wherever he is, I’ll be piggybacking with him.🫡 And Astridddd😮‍💨 She is one of the strongest fmc’s I’ve ever read and I’m in love with her.🧎🏻‍♀️

The last 40% of this book had me biting my nails in anticipation for what was going to happen next, and you guessed it, I never knew.😭 The end left me with my jaw on the floor and I will be (im)patiently waiting for book 2.😩 I have never read anything like this and I’m so excited to read more from this author!

[Kathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"to some, he was a villain. to others, he was a saint."

I'm truly shocked that this is a debut. What an explosive entrance into the literary world, there's simply not enough stars to do this book justice.

This is hands down the most brilliantly crafted dark apocalyptic dystopian book I've ever read. And listen, I'm a hardcore romantasy girlie through and through, but the chokehold this book had on me?!? I fear I'm truly entering my dystopian era and I'm not exactly sure I want to leave, not if I get to spend all of my time in region three.

Onyx is EVERYTHING. he embodies brooding silence, all sharp edges and stormy eyes, a fortress of stoicism, except for a select few.. except for HER. Being caught up in the
slow burn? it's enough to catch fire 😫

Asher built a richly layered world with razor sharp plot twists, betrayal, angst, tension and yearning so strong, characters so vividly complex and human, that you can't help but feel anything but captivated. I sobbed, ugly cried, laughed, and had a hell of a ride on this emotional rollercoaster lol.

That cliffhanger?! I need book two faster than a teleport.

[Kim Bobbitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What do you get when you mix The Walking Dead, The Hunger Games and a splash of X-Men? Well, my friends you get The Illumination by Asher D. Payne. And honestly those analogies don’t even scratch the surface. This book is so multi faceted. It is a post-apocalyptic, dystopian, fantasy romance. It is a story about love, friendship, loss, betrayal and most of all hope. The characters stories will break your heart, but their common grief and shared trauma bonds them into an unshakable family. The way that the author portrays the friendships between these characters is so pure, and at times devastating. This story broke me multiple times in the best way. It is clear that this is only the beginning of what will be a truly harrowing tale, but I for one am all in. I will not be revealing any story details in this review, because I truly don’t want to ruin any of this experience for a potential reader. But as always I will provide you with some tasty tropes to lure you in.

❤️‍🔥 Touch Her and ☠️
❤️‍🔥 Found Family
❤️‍🔥 Enemies to Lovers
❤️‍🔥 Forced Proximity
❤️‍🔥 Broody but emotionally mature MMC
❤️‍🔥 He gives her a nickname (swoon)
❤️‍🔥 Dark Secrets
❤️‍🔥 Slow Burn with so much tension
❤️‍🔥 The beginning of an amazing FMC

Can you tell I like it?

[Sophie G.C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the amazing opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book, and I was not disappointed.

The Illumination is the first book in a series, and oh boy, did it set the stage for the next ones. The world is so immersive, and you know the author has taken the time to understand her world and plan the plot twist miles in advance.

The unreliable narrator forms an interesting dynamic between the reader and the characters, making you question everything to the point that you don't know who to trust.
Asher has done a wonderful job creating characters who feel real and authentic, with completely understandable flaws, given their pasts and the world they live in.

I know this author will break my heart with this series, and I'm here for it!

This book is perfect for people who miss the dystopian era of 2014.

[Tartsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

holy smokes!

I really enjoyed this! This was my first dystopian novel. There were several moments that I COULD NOT put the book down, and had to find out what happened.

That twist… I did not see coming. Asher was right in saying, “trust no one” and now I’m worried for the rest of the series, which I will inevitably read.

Asher had wonderful descriptions and painted a tragic yet vibrant post apocalyptic world. I should have highlighted everything Astrid said… what is she hiding?!

Prepare for a shocking, twisty, traumatic, compelling read.

[Jamielee Hollis · Rating 5 out of 5]

BUY THE BOOK!! READ THE BOOK!! OMG!! I truly believe this series will become big like the last of us and divergent and all of those. The world building, the characters…just everything is so well written and put together I was questioning things, yelling at characters, crying and just all the emotions! If you’re thinking about it, give it a chance. As silly as it sounds this book has helped me in ways I’d never imagined and I’ll definitely be reading the rest. DO IT!!

[Rose Cracraft · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is utterly captivating! From the very first page, I was completely hooked and couldn’t put it down. Each chapter pulls you deeper into the story, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you race to uncover what happens next. The plot is packed with unexpected twists and turns that constantly leave you guessing. The writing is elegant, and the storyline is masterfully crafted—every element seamlessly woven together. A truly unforgettable read that left me reeling in the best way possible. 10/10 would recommend

[Cori Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me from the get go! I am on chapter 5 and can’t put it down. I am invested in the characters and cannot wait to see where they take me. I cannot wait for more!

[Sarah Roesch | sarah_reads___ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Infinite stars! Wow. What a debut from this author. I can hardly wrap my head around that fact. I could literally write a book about this book and how good it is, but I will restrict myself to the highlights below.

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT was some of the best I’ve read all year. The depth Asher was able to encompass was astounding. I felt such a deep connection to every character, and found myself laughing and crying along with them. I would go to war for them.

THE BANTER was in-effing-credible. Chefs kiss, no notes. The amount of highlights I have is embarrassing.

THE PLOT was fast moving, twisty, emotional, funny, thought provoking, full of high stakes, had a natural pace, and flowed like a seasoned professional wrote it.

WORLD BUILDING was well, you guessed it, incredible. While it takes place in a post apocalyptic United States, the subtle differences intertwining the world we know with this version were seamless.

To say I can’t wait for the rest of this series is an understatement. I can’t scream loud enough about this book.

Nailed it.

TL;DR read if you like:
💀Dystopian/Post Apocalyptic
😬Flawed Characters
🥰Found Family
❤️‍🩹Healing Trauma
🔥Enemies to Lovers to?
🤫Secrets
✅Inclusivity
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️

[Kelsey C · Rating 5 out of 5]

When the time comes, do you join the rebellion or do you stay confined within the walls and blindly follow your government?

Can you uncover what are truths and what are lies? Who can you trust? Who will betray you?

Follow Astrid's journey to uncover the truth in the lies and the betrayal of those she trusted.

I saw so many friends talking this book up that I had to see what the hype was all about. I WAS NOT DISAPPOINTED! Everything I had read about this book was spot on! The story, the characters, the world, everything is absolutely perfect! First let's talk about how from the dedication I was sucked in and did not want to stop reading. Stupid responsibilities delayed my reading but I'm glad I was about to take my time reading because it was that beautiful. The emotions! How do I put into words how perfectly the emotions and the inner thoughts were absolutely gut wrenching. There were several times I had to pause because the words hit my core. To say I saw myself in these characters would only be scratching the surface. This is definitely one of my top reads for the year and I can't wait to continue the journey in the New World.

[Nicketa Fox · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOOOOOOOOOVED THIS BOOK!!!

I was able to be a beta reader for this book/series and the author got many swearing messages from all the twists, the characters that you love and hated and the crying moments.

I laughed and cried and got so angry in parts of this book that it was amazing. A book that can get all the emotions going is amazing. Asher did a great job of getting you attached to the characters and immersing me as a reader into the setting and plot - the twists and turns and betrayal in this series has been crazy and I am here for it.
Just when you like someone, they make you hate them. When you hate someone, you turn the page and you like them!
Most things are done for a reason, you never know what they are until they smack you in the face though 😂
SUSPECT EVERYONE!!

I am on team Astrid 100% of the journey - you know there’s something suspish about her, but I don’t care. I’m on her train and I’ll get off where she gets off!

[Zephyr · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY HELL. Infinity stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was a wild ride. I finished it a few hours ago and I’m still struggling to form words. I haven’t felt this intensely about a book since I read the Throne of Glass series. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve definitely read incredible books since then, but The Illumination is an absolute masterpiece. Asher D. Payne is BRILLIANT. I was captivated from the very first chapter. I felt as though I was actually living in that world. The emotional roller coaster was so intense. Trust. Longing. Adventure. Betrayal. Grief. Trauma. Love. More betrayal. More adventure. The found family is perfection. I absolutely love these characters!
The plot twists? Never saw em coming. Blindsided. Mouth on the floor. 🤯
I cannot wait for book 2!

[ChaFay Tucker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the honor to beta read this book and I have to say. I was not disappointed. In fact, I only craved more. The book really knows how to pull you in and pull you apart. I mean literally pull you apart. There has been only two books so far that I have made me bawl my eyes out and now this is the third one and I fear this will not be the last time. I fell in love with the storyline, the writing and the characters.

But as the author will tell you… Trust no one.

[Kaitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOWOWOWOWOWOW
There was never once a dead spot in this book. The plot kept plotting, the twists were twisting, and I was on the edge of my seat for over 700 pages. I absolutely loved this book and I was honored to be able to get such an early copy to read and review. Asher is a mastermind and I can’t wait to see how this all ties together.
GIVE. ME. MORE.

[Kendra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Now Dystopian is back baby!! A dark post apocalyptic that will have you feeling so many emotions as this book has tension and betrayal that will keep you glued to these pages and a jaw dropper once you find out the secrets in here.

In my opinion, I think Asher did a great job introducing you the background of this post apocalyptic world she created right from the beginning. It’s intriguing and gets you more excited as you read throughout the book. I loved the show The Walking Dead and this book gave me those vibes but in its own unique story of course. Honestly the way she described this world is exactly how I feel what would happen to our world if turned out this way 😂 like that’s how much I was imagining this story in my head.

I had anxiety getting half way through the book because let me tell you the betrayal will come at you like a whammy! And can we please just think about Onyx for a moment?? This man’s character was everything! He is broody in the best way possible and just overly hot AF!

I very much enjoyed the found family in here especially Onyx and Imelda brother and sister relationship 🥹 but once you get introduced to the other characters and how it layers all together with them, their bonding is the best thing in this book.

I can’t wait to move onto book 2 and see how Asher carries the rest of the story in this series! 🖤✨

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, if this is what dystopian books are like- I've been missing out. Really, though, I think it's the magic Asher put into this book.

Spice Rating: 3 🍞

Tropes:
✨️Enemies to Lovers
✨️Betrayals
✨️Found Family
✨️Supernatural Abilites



"I know my worth, and that's why you see me as a threat. Perhaps we should explore that?"

I spent the whole book filled with mistrust and an unreliable narrator outlook, but not being able to love these characters and trust them was so hard. Naturally, couldn't help myself and did love and trust them 🫣 can't wait to see how that breaks me

Astrid is an FMC whose strength relies on her mental grit, we get to see her physically become stronger throughout the book as she trains with Onyx and Rayne. Onyx is our protector for everyone and honestly makes me proud, but my heart breaks for him and the story he's lives. I absolutely loved the banter with Jasper & Rayne. The story and world Asher is weaving is crafty and amazing.

I cannot wait to read the rest of the series and feel so lucky to have been gifted an ARC copy. Thank you so much 💕

[Katy | kaeosreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Is it 2010?? Because Dystopian is so BACK and Asher D. Payne might just be the first horseman of this new wave of post-apocalyptic brilliance. The Illumination is everything I was hoping for but didn’t get from Silver Elite. The banter, the character arcs, the world-building… everything clicks here, and it’s fantastic.

From the opening chapters, Payne drops you into a bleak yet utterly compelling world, layered with tension, betrayal, and high stakes. The atmosphere gave me shades of The Walking Dead (and apparently I’m not alone in that), but with a voice and story all its own. It’s one of those books that hits a little too close to home because you can imagine our world turning this way, and that makes it all the more gripping.

The character work is especially strong. The arcs are satisfying, the found family dynamic hits hard, and the relationships (particularly the sibling bond between Onyx and Imelda) are written with tenderness and heart. Onyx himself is a standout: broody, layered, and completely enthralling. His presence alone had me glued to the page. DADDY AF

What really shines though is the way Payne balances action, betrayal, and intimacy. The twists had me gasping, the emotional moments landed beautifully, and the banter brought levity it was needed most.
The Illumination is dystopian done right: razor-sharp, emotionally resonant, and impossible to put down. I am destroyed and I can’t wait to see where Payne takes this series next.

[Trisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Look I’m not your average dystopian genre of book girl but this book had me on the edge of my seat from chapter one. This book has plot twists and turns at every corner, or I should say chapter. You will never see the twists and turns coming, you cannot and should not trust anyone in the book! It’s part of a 5 book series so this is book one. It is thick with tension and there are some spicy scenes that will give you a good time! I recommend this book! I can’t wait to read book 2 of this series! If you haven’t read this book go read it now! It will not disappoint! 5/5 spice 3/5

[Dark Bedroom Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

“From this day forward, I will face the world with you through hardship and turbulence. I will stand by your side through it all. And as painful as this may be, we will make it through - together.”

I wasn’t ready to be emotionally ruined… again.
For days after finishing this book, I sat in front of a blank screen, struggling to find the right words. Because this is one of those stories that tears through your soul, shatters the entire rating system, and leaves you gasping for more. And it’s also one of those books that is nearly impossible to describe. You can’t fully understand it until you feel it on your own skin.

I have so much to say…
But let’s start here:
Debut? Unbelievable.
That’s what shocked me the most - how talented a human must be to create something like this?
At first, the world gave me a hint of The Last of Us vibes - with eerie creatures and a broken new world. But quickly, it grew into something far more layered, dark, and beautifully alive. A universe packed with secrets, cruelty, wonder, betrayal, and emotion.

The way Payne writes - every situation, conversation, and emotion - feels completely natural. Even with all the mutations and powers, the story feels human. Raw. Real.
The dialogue is a standout - not just snappy or clever, but immersive. It breathes life into the world, paints characters with subtlety and precision, and places you in the room beside them. Laughing. Crying. Planning.
The emotional depth brings a psychological layer that hit home. There were moments I found myself reflecting on my own life - seeing truths hidden within these characters and situations...
Each character is so richly drawn, so precisely written, they feel like people you’ve known for years.

Astrid Carnell, our FMC - she’s a fighter and a dreamer. Brave, bold, with hope in her heart. She’s the kind of woman who will stand between danger and the people she loves - even when it costs her everything. And when betrayal cuts deep, there are people around her who help her rise even stronger. And through it all, the meaning of family shifts and grows for her.
Radley - her dangerously handsome partner and long-time comrade. For years, they’ve stood side by side. And now they’re on a mission together… but who knew how it would all turn out? Maybe he did, after all…
And then… Onyx Oakes. Oh, Onyx… He didn’t just break into my book boyfriend list - he rewrote it.
Without spoiling the journey, I’ll just say: he’s the painted villain, the feared one, the enigma. The most powerful. The most dangerous. And yet, in so many ways… the most beautiful.
His character reminded me (in spirit, not in story) of another beloved figure from a legendary book. That same question: Who is he really beneath the mask?

The romance? Slow-burn perfection. It simmers, aches, lingers. And when the touches and kisses come - when the sparks finally fly - they’re everything. Tender. Earned. Electric. The spice here is so good. So necessary. So worth the wait.
Chapter 32? Holy hell...
“I thought the tension between you two was going to be the de@th of us all.”

I’ll be honest: this book took me three days to finish because I had to pause.
Once - just to breathe.
And once - because something devastating happened in the story, and I cried so hard I couldn’t see through the tears.
By the end, I was overwhelmed. The next book in my TBR had to wait.
This book feels like an entire TV series with nine seasons downloaded straight into your brain (in the best possible way).
And even though many secrets are revealed, there’s still so much more to uncover. I already miss these people. And I’ll be counting the days until Book2.
I received this ARC completely unexpectedly (fate knows how to play 😄), and I’m so incredibly thankful for the opportunity - truly, from the bottom of my heart.

“His appearance was striking – a fallen angel stripped of his wings.”

Fantasy Romance ∙ Dystopian Society ∙ Post-apocalyptic ∙ Mutations ∙ Enemies to Lovers / Lovers to Enemies ∙ Forced Proximity ∙ Morally Gray Characters ∙ Secrets ∙ Betrayal ∙ Slow Burn ∙ Brave FMC ∙ Touch Her & D!e ∙ 1st Person, Multi POV ∙ 18+/TW

⭐ 5/5
🌶️ 1.5/5

[S.J. Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Asher, you beautiful, creative human that you are...oh my goodness. I don't even know where to start! Firstly, the entire plot of this book is absolutely amazing. Post-apocalyptic, dystopian, slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers, etc. The banter. The characters arcs so well done that I felt all of the emotions of swooning, gasping, and hurt from betrayals.

The cliffhanger?? I need book 2 as soon as humanly possible, because I NEED answers. This was such an incredible read, and insane that it's Asher's debut novel. I can't wait to read more and come back to this place to avoid reality.

[Stasia Roze · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of being a beta reader for Asher. The Illumination by Asher D Payne is the first novel in a 5 book series. The world is split into Rebels, Scavangers, Runners and Ventures. The venturers and uninfected people live within walls. The Rebels are changed humans who reside outside the wall, with abilities and powers stemming from “The Fall.” And lastly, born of radiation the ‘Runners’ sound similar to creatures you’d find in ‘The Last of Us’ or ‘World War Z.’

Although a similar theme to other dystopian books, and even 5 book pentology’s, Payne has certainly made this her own with gutting twists and untrustworthy characters. As the reader, we’re never safe and each turn of the page has you on edge.

Payne’s chosen to write brash and outspoken characters with no nonsense attitudes and who know their own minds and honestly, I’m obsessed. Everything is black and white and no one hides their feelings. There’s no miscommunication or insecurity, this is a true masterpiece of the sassy outspoken human and I’m here for it. The characters deal with conflict and arguments just like I would in real life. I’ve yelled at so many books in the past when there have been weak arguments, where characters don’t focus on the actual issue, so this really is a blessing. Throughout the book the characters develop into a maturity not commonly seen in this genre. It reads like a real adult conversation, where the characters actually communicate and respect each other. It’s truly an unique spin that only benefits the reader exponentially.

The way grief is handled in this book is borderline therapeutic. Payne has included and maintained respect for grieving, boundary setting, understanding, healthy mindsets and acceptance. There is no judgement for how characters react or respond. These small choices lead to massive impact for the reader and a closer connection to the characters.

However, the twists that come with this book are jaw dropping. Some I never saw coming and had me looking around my room at an invisible camera like I was in an episode of The Office. At about 50% through this became more than a dystopian sci-fi book, it turned to a visceral annihilation of everything I thought I knew.

The whole book causes intense paranoia that leaves me trusting no one, especially the author. There’s only one question on my mind when I finished was; “WHAT WAS THE REASON?” The depth of emotion, and writing style shattered me, you can’t predict anything. This book will be one that sticks with me for life.

The mistrust I now have for all characters, the plot and Payne means the ending is so much worse, Payne has shown that anything can happen, I’m left nervous and with so many questions. I have an unquenchable thirst which won’t be satiated till the end of book 5.

[Jade J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly cannot believe this is a debut novel! I read this book twice before crafting my review. I received this book as an ARC and these thoughts are 100% my own.

Asher’s world building, story telling, and character portrayal are all top tier. From page one I was sucked into Astrid’s world. The story was so well written that you literally feel what these characters are enduring. There was tension, betrayal, banter, and growth. The was a post apocalyptic work of art.

Astrid is such an intense and passionate FMC. She’s strong, physically and mentally, but she is just the thing Onyx Oakes needs.

“It no longer became about fixing or saving him but acknowledging the multifaceted layers of grief and appreciating the complexity of his character. “

The tension and longing between these two is palpable from day one and just adds such a complex layer to the story that had me eagerly flipping the pages to keep reading.

All in all, this was such a well-told and beautifully crafted story of survival through hardships of all kinds and found family.

[Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.

Fear Controls the Weak.

I have no words. I loved this book; it sucks you into the world so fast, and you just cannot get enough of it. I went into this book knowing only that it was dystopian, and that's it. Honestly, that was a fantastic decision on my part (although I have no idea how I never learned more); everything in this book was a surprise, and it was all fascinating. I have many more questions, and I'm excited to get answers to them in the rest of the series. The monsters within this book are genuinely terrifying, the government and politics are fascinating, and I love seeing it from all the different characters' perspectives. Every character is so interesting and so complex. I adore the relationships that Asher has built because seeing the way these characters interact is just perfect. The dialogue and banter have me laughing out loud, some moments made me cry, and others had me swoon. I wish I could express just how good the writing is in this book. The way the world is described is so beautiful, and the way the characters speak, as well as their inner monologues, pull at my heartstrings. Everything about this book just hooks you and has you dying to know more. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I have so many questions that I need answered. I just know this series will break my heart, and I'm honestly looking forward to it!

I could easily envision this series being adapted into a successful TV show or movie. Everyone should go pick up this book especially if you miss the early 2010s era of dystopian.


Tropes if you want them, but I thoroughly recommend going in blind.

✵ Touch Her and ☠️
👁️Found Family
✵ Enemies to Lovers
👁️Forced Proximity
✵Secrets
👁️Slow Burn
✵Dystopian

[Jessica McIntyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review-

This book was insane! From the moment I picked it up, I spent every minute I had free reading. (Including staying up way too late last night reading it.) I adored this book. It’s one of the best dystopian books I’ve read. The world was so well built and you could really picture everything. And Onyx??? The man that you are! I cannot wait to continue to read the rest of this series!!

[Bobby Cha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would honestly recommend this book to anybody out there! DO. NOT. MISS. OUT. ON. THIS! Once you get sucked in, there’s no way you’re getting out! It’s gonna keep you going and going all the way to the end! By far juiciest book I’ve read to date! Asher knows how to create plot twists and keep you on your toes! Everything about her book is absolutely amazing! I promise you, she doesn’t disappoint!

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

what a great true dystopian novel with all the challenges of surviving, love, betrayal , and found family !!!! The raw emotions this book illicit-ed from me was astounding. i went into this advanced readers copy blindly , just reading the blurb, and holy moly!! i dont know if i have actually ever read a true dystopian before this one !!! well written with characters you can connect with and empathize with!!! the plot was so raw and intersting and i could not put it down !!! i am so ready for the next book !!!!

[book obsessed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, was so sad when i turned the page and saw it was the end because i need to know what happens after that. And Astrid is keeping secrets and i need to know them now. Everything written seems intentional and well thought out that i doubt so much because after some of the twists in this book, it is not far fetched to doubt or second guess things.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh. oh. oh. OHHHHHHHHHHHHH

THIS BOOK 😩😩😩

Yearning, BETRAYAL, crazy creepy monsters, cool powers, dystopian setting, battle scenes, UNFORGIVABLE DEATHS

I ate this book up and cannot recommend it enough, also the hard covers are TO DIE FOR.