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Through the Ashes
When everything burns away, what remains?
Andie Harris had it all—a loving marriage, a fulfilling job, and dreams for their future together. But in the blink of an eye, tragedy claims the one she holds most dear.
Left with nothing but ashes and memories, Andie finds herself trapped in grief. Lost in her new reality, unable to find her place again. She’s surviving but not living.
When Andie takes the step to rebuild herself with her new life, she doesn’t realize she’ll be facing her toughest battle finding love in the most unexpected place at a vulnerable time.
Andie must decide whether to remain in the ashes of her past or open up her heart to love again with the risk that she could lose it all for a second time.
Will she honor her past and find her way without giving her heart to another? Or will she open her heart and allow the void to be filled?
Tropes
🔥instalust/ instalove
🔥he falls first
🔥secrets
🔥hurt /comfort
🔥emotionally deep fmc
🔥emotional scars/ healing
🔥second chance at love
🔥protective MMC
🔥forbidden desire
🔥guarded x hopeful
🔥fresh start
Andie Harris had it all—a loving marriage, a fulfilling job, and dreams for their future together. But in the blink of an eye, tragedy claims the one she holds most dear.
Left with nothing but ashes and memories, Andie finds herself trapped in grief. Lost in her new reality, unable to find her place again. She’s surviving but not living.
When Andie takes the step to rebuild herself with her new life, she doesn’t realize she’ll be facing her toughest battle finding love in the most unexpected place at a vulnerable time.
Andie must decide whether to remain in the ashes of her past or open up her heart to love again with the risk that she could lose it all for a second time.
Will she honor her past and find her way without giving her heart to another? Or will she open her heart and allow the void to be filled?
Tropes
🔥instalust/ instalove
🔥he falls first
🔥secrets
🔥hurt /comfort
🔥emotionally deep fmc
🔥emotional scars/ healing
🔥second chance at love
🔥protective MMC
🔥forbidden desire
🔥guarded x hopeful
🔥fresh start
- GenresAudiobook
486 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2025
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July 10, 2026I received this ALC from High Gravity Productions.
I went into Through the Ashes not really knowing what to expect, and I ended up enjoying it.
The story starts off heavy, but it never felt like it was slow. The pacing kept me engaged from the beginning, and the character dynamics were what really pulled me in.
There’s a twist worth mentioning because I did not see it coming. It definitely caught me off guard and left me having a WTF moment.
The ending wraps up the story nicely.
The full-cast production was fantastic. Everyone fit their characters really well, and it made the story feel so immersive. The only thing that didn’t completely work for me was the MMC’s performance. He wasn’t bad at all, but there were times where it felt like he was reading the lines instead of fully becoming the character.
I’d recommend it to listeners who enjoy emotional romance, stories about healing after loss, strong character dynamics, and full-cast audiobooks.
I went into Through the Ashes not really knowing what to expect, and I ended up enjoying it.
The story starts off heavy, but it never felt like it was slow. The pacing kept me engaged from the beginning, and the character dynamics were what really pulled me in.
There’s a twist worth mentioning because I did not see it coming. It definitely caught me off guard and left me having a WTF moment.
The ending wraps up the story nicely.
The full-cast production was fantastic. Everyone fit their characters really well, and it made the story feel so immersive. The only thing that didn’t completely work for me was the MMC’s performance. He wasn’t bad at all, but there were times where it felt like he was reading the lines instead of fully becoming the character.
I’d recommend it to listeners who enjoy emotional romance, stories about healing after loss, strong character dynamics, and full-cast audiobooks.
July 19, 2026
4.5🌟, 3🌶️
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this audiobook, but it ended up being such a pleasant surprise.
Andie’s journey through grief, healing, and learning to open her heart again pulled me in from the start. It is an emotional story, but it never felt weighed down by the heavier moments because the pacing kept everything moving. Just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story threw in a twist that genuinely caught me off guard. I had one of those “what just happened?” moments that made it impossible to stop listening.
The full cast narration elevated the experience even more. Heather Costa, Jeffrey Kafer, Andi Eloise, Allie Martina, Gideon Frost, CJ Bloom, and Brandon Francis brought so much life and emotion to every scene, making the characters feel incredibly real. Jeffrey Kafer’s performance didn’t quite pull me in as much as the rest of the cast at times, but it never took away from how immersive the production was overall.
This is one I’d happily recommend to anyone who enjoys emotional romance on audio.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Emmie Elms and The Author Agency for the ALC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
ALC Review (Audiobook) 🎧
I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this audiobook, but it ended up being such a pleasant surprise.
Andie’s journey through grief, healing, and learning to open her heart again pulled me in from the start. It is an emotional story, but it never felt weighed down by the heavier moments because the pacing kept everything moving. Just when I thought I knew where things were heading, the story threw in a twist that genuinely caught me off guard. I had one of those “what just happened?” moments that made it impossible to stop listening.
The full cast narration elevated the experience even more. Heather Costa, Jeffrey Kafer, Andi Eloise, Allie Martina, Gideon Frost, CJ Bloom, and Brandon Francis brought so much life and emotion to every scene, making the characters feel incredibly real. Jeffrey Kafer’s performance didn’t quite pull me in as much as the rest of the cast at times, but it never took away from how immersive the production was overall.
This is one I’d happily recommend to anyone who enjoys emotional romance on audio.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Emmie Elms and The Author Agency for the ALC! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
July 9, 2026
~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
~Through The Ashes~Life In Waves Book 1~Emmie Elms~
~Duet Multi-Cast Narration~Heather Costa~Jeffrey Kafer~Andi Eloise~Allie Martina~Gideon Frost~CJ Bloom~Brandon Francis~
~Production~High Gravity Productions~
"Sometimes you must walk through the ashes of your old life to find the beauty that’s waiting on the other side."
♡This was my first read by Emmie Elms & it was phenomenal! This story was an emotional roller-coaster full of grief, love, acceptance, healing, & 1000% had me feeling every emotion that I possess from start to finish! Emmie should receive an award for the amount of time I wanted to throw my phone over the twists & turns I was put through listening to this story!
The duet multi-cast narration for this audiobook was perfection! Heather, Jeffrey & the supporting cast all did a phenomenal job brining this story, characters, & emotions to life flawlessly. I can't wait to hear book two come to life!
That's all you get for a review to limit any spoilers!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Emmie & High Gravity for this Alc in exchange for an honest review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
~Through The Ashes~Life In Waves Book 1~Emmie Elms~
~Duet Multi-Cast Narration~Heather Costa~Jeffrey Kafer~Andi Eloise~Allie Martina~Gideon Frost~CJ Bloom~Brandon Francis~
~Production~High Gravity Productions~
"Sometimes you must walk through the ashes of your old life to find the beauty that’s waiting on the other side."
♡This was my first read by Emmie Elms & it was phenomenal! This story was an emotional roller-coaster full of grief, love, acceptance, healing, & 1000% had me feeling every emotion that I possess from start to finish! Emmie should receive an award for the amount of time I wanted to throw my phone over the twists & turns I was put through listening to this story!
The duet multi-cast narration for this audiobook was perfection! Heather, Jeffrey & the supporting cast all did a phenomenal job brining this story, characters, & emotions to life flawlessly. I can't wait to hear book two come to life!
That's all you get for a review to limit any spoilers!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Emmie & High Gravity for this Alc in exchange for an honest review~
July 15, 2026
I had the pleasure of listening to this book as an ALC. It was amazing! At first I was thinking I might not like it. With the death of her husband. And truly in some cases I would have to stop. But I am so glad I posted on with this book. It truly was a surprise around every corner. When you think your story is just flowing it's oh Lord there is another catastrophic event.
I don't want to give away the parts of the book but let us say it truly was surprises so often.
It's totally about losing who you thought you knew and starting over in a new place with someone new. I know this author might get feedback on the fact that the mc moved on so fast. That is the one sensitive area of the book I did not enjoy. But it's part of the bigger story.
I don't want to give away the parts of the book but let us say it truly was surprises so often.
It's totally about losing who you thought you knew and starting over in a new place with someone new. I know this author might get feedback on the fact that the mc moved on so fast. That is the one sensitive area of the book I did not enjoy. But it's part of the bigger story.
December 23, 2025
⭐️ — 4/5
🌶️ — 3/5
HUGE thank you to The Author Agency and to the author for my copy of this book — all thoughts in my review are my own.
Aside from the trigger warnings (which you should DEFINITELY review prior to reading) I feel like this book should also come with a disclaimer: “Warning this book will hit you HARD in the feels from beginning to end.”
Anyone who has dealt with profound loss in their life will understand me when I say that sometimes our grief becomes the deciding factor on everything — whether that means you are drowning in the pain of grief or you are feeling guilt for not drowning in it. So often we decide what moving on from that pain SHOULD look like and allow that to dictate what we do.
Through the Ashes serves as a reminder that moving forward in a way that feels right takes courage but it will always be the better way through that grief.
✔️ second chances
✔️ healing
✔️ protective MMC
✔️ he falls first
✔️ unconditional support
🌶️ — 3/5
HUGE thank you to The Author Agency and to the author for my copy of this book — all thoughts in my review are my own.
Aside from the trigger warnings (which you should DEFINITELY review prior to reading) I feel like this book should also come with a disclaimer: “Warning this book will hit you HARD in the feels from beginning to end.”
Anyone who has dealt with profound loss in their life will understand me when I say that sometimes our grief becomes the deciding factor on everything — whether that means you are drowning in the pain of grief or you are feeling guilt for not drowning in it. So often we decide what moving on from that pain SHOULD look like and allow that to dictate what we do.
Through the Ashes serves as a reminder that moving forward in a way that feels right takes courage but it will always be the better way through that grief.
✔️ second chances
✔️ healing
✔️ protective MMC
✔️ he falls first
✔️ unconditional support
December 6, 2025
Through the Ashes is an emotional story that hits the ground running. Andie’s journey through grief, healing, and finding a fresh start is written with sincerity, and if you enjoy secrets, emotional scars, second chances, and a protective MMC, this book delivers.
Andie and Spencer’s connection feels natural and grounded, and I liked how the author handled sensitive topics with care. The story stays engaging and easy to get pulled into.
I held back one star mainly because a few sections move a bit slowly, but overall it’s a moving, well-written debut and a strong start to the Life in Waves series.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Emmie Elms for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Andie and Spencer’s connection feels natural and grounded, and I liked how the author handled sensitive topics with care. The story stays engaging and easy to get pulled into.
I held back one star mainly because a few sections move a bit slowly, but overall it’s a moving, well-written debut and a strong start to the Life in Waves series.
Thank you to The Author Agency and Emmie Elms for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2026
Good read.
July 22, 2026
Some audiobooks entertain you… this one stays with you.
I knew Through the Ashes would be emotional, but I wasn’t prepared for how hard it would hit.
First of all… this is Emmie Elms’ debut novel. A debut. Excuse me?! Because she writes with the confidence of someone who’s been emotionally traumatising readers for years.
Through the Ashes is exactly what the title promises. It’s a story about devastating loss, grief, healing, hope and finding the courage to live again when your world has burned to the ground. It’s raw, heartbreaking and beautifully honest, but it never loses sight of the hope waiting on the other side.
Now can we talk about High Gravity Productions for a second?
Honestly… what are they putting in the water over there? Every release lately has been an absolute home run. They’re scoring with every audiobook they produce, and this one might be one of their finest.
The duet multi-cast narration is world class.
Heather Costa carries Andie’s heartbreak with such vulnerability that I felt every crack in her soul. Jeffrey Kafer delivers so much warmth and emotion, and every supporting narrator adds another layer that makes this production feel completely immersive.
And then… Brandon Francis.
Can we please give this man his flowers? As the flirty brother he brought exactly what this story needed—those perfectly timed moments of humour and lightness that let me breathe before Emmie promptly ripped my heart out again. Every time he appeared I found myself smiling, and those moments made the emotional punches land even harder.
Honestly though… every single member of this cast deserves applause. Not one weak performance. Just elite talent bringing an incredible story to life.
And that twist…
Excuse me?!
I genuinely had one of those audiobook moments where I just stared into space whispering, “What the actual…?” I never saw it coming.
This was my first Emmie Elms book, but it absolutely won’t be my last. If this is what she delivers with her debut, I genuinely cannot wait to see what comes next.
Now if you’ll excuse me… I’m emotionally exhausted, slightly dehydrated from crying, and ready to dive straight into the finale.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧
I knew Through the Ashes would be emotional, but I wasn’t prepared for how hard it would hit.
First of all… this is Emmie Elms’ debut novel. A debut. Excuse me?! Because she writes with the confidence of someone who’s been emotionally traumatising readers for years.
Through the Ashes is exactly what the title promises. It’s a story about devastating loss, grief, healing, hope and finding the courage to live again when your world has burned to the ground. It’s raw, heartbreaking and beautifully honest, but it never loses sight of the hope waiting on the other side.
Now can we talk about High Gravity Productions for a second?
Honestly… what are they putting in the water over there? Every release lately has been an absolute home run. They’re scoring with every audiobook they produce, and this one might be one of their finest.
The duet multi-cast narration is world class.
Heather Costa carries Andie’s heartbreak with such vulnerability that I felt every crack in her soul. Jeffrey Kafer delivers so much warmth and emotion, and every supporting narrator adds another layer that makes this production feel completely immersive.
And then… Brandon Francis.
Can we please give this man his flowers? As the flirty brother he brought exactly what this story needed—those perfectly timed moments of humour and lightness that let me breathe before Emmie promptly ripped my heart out again. Every time he appeared I found myself smiling, and those moments made the emotional punches land even harder.
Honestly though… every single member of this cast deserves applause. Not one weak performance. Just elite talent bringing an incredible story to life.
And that twist…
Excuse me?!
I genuinely had one of those audiobook moments where I just stared into space whispering, “What the actual…?” I never saw it coming.
This was my first Emmie Elms book, but it absolutely won’t be my last. If this is what she delivers with her debut, I genuinely cannot wait to see what comes next.
Now if you’ll excuse me… I’m emotionally exhausted, slightly dehydrated from crying, and ready to dive straight into the finale.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🎧
July 22, 2026
4.5 Stars rounded up.
A huge thank you to High Gravity Audio and author Emmie Elms for the ALC of Through the Ashes.
This full-cast audiobook, narrated by Heather Costa, Jeffrey Kafer, Andi Eloise, Allie Martina, Gideon Frost, CJ Bloom, and Brandon Francis, was absolutely phenomenal. Every narrator brought so much emotion to the story, making every heartbreaking, romantic, and tense moment hit even harder.
This book put me through the emotional wringer. I was frustrated, heartbroken, hopeful, and completely shocked by the end. The loss the FMC experiences is devastating, and watching her navigate that grief while struggling with trauma and communication made my heart ache for her. There were definitely moments where I wanted to shake her, but seeing her journey unfold made everything click in the end.
Now, can we talk about her family? Because they had my blood pressure through the roof. Her mom, sister, and best friend Charlie had me wanting to throat-punch them more than once with the way they treated her. Thankfully, Charlie and her sister redeemed themselves by the end... but her mom? Yeah, I'm still holding a grudge. 😂
The MMC, though? He was everything. Patient, compassionate, and unwavering in his love for her. He never tried to rush her healing and simply wanted to be there for her, giving her the time and support she needed. He was exactly the kind of book boyfriend you can't help but root for.
And the twist toward the end... WHAT?! I never saw that twist coming. It completely changed the way I looked at the story and tied everything together so beautifully. It was one of those reveals that makes you stop and think back on everything you've read.
Overall, Through the Ashes was an incredible full-cast audiobook filled with heartbreak, healing, romance, and a twist I never expected. If you're looking for an emotional story with outstanding narration and characters that will make you feel everything, I definitely recommend giving this one a listen.
A huge thank you to High Gravity Audio and author Emmie Elms for the ALC of Through the Ashes.
This full-cast audiobook, narrated by Heather Costa, Jeffrey Kafer, Andi Eloise, Allie Martina, Gideon Frost, CJ Bloom, and Brandon Francis, was absolutely phenomenal. Every narrator brought so much emotion to the story, making every heartbreaking, romantic, and tense moment hit even harder.
This book put me through the emotional wringer. I was frustrated, heartbroken, hopeful, and completely shocked by the end. The loss the FMC experiences is devastating, and watching her navigate that grief while struggling with trauma and communication made my heart ache for her. There were definitely moments where I wanted to shake her, but seeing her journey unfold made everything click in the end.
Now, can we talk about her family? Because they had my blood pressure through the roof. Her mom, sister, and best friend Charlie had me wanting to throat-punch them more than once with the way they treated her. Thankfully, Charlie and her sister redeemed themselves by the end... but her mom? Yeah, I'm still holding a grudge. 😂
The MMC, though? He was everything. Patient, compassionate, and unwavering in his love for her. He never tried to rush her healing and simply wanted to be there for her, giving her the time and support she needed. He was exactly the kind of book boyfriend you can't help but root for.
And the twist toward the end... WHAT?! I never saw that twist coming. It completely changed the way I looked at the story and tied everything together so beautifully. It was one of those reveals that makes you stop and think back on everything you've read.
Overall, Through the Ashes was an incredible full-cast audiobook filled with heartbreak, healing, romance, and a twist I never expected. If you're looking for an emotional story with outstanding narration and characters that will make you feel everything, I definitely recommend giving this one a listen.
July 18, 2026
✨ALC provided by The Author’s Agency for honest review
Through the Ashes is a book about loss, grief, depression, and finding a way move on with your life. Andi and Cody have been married for years, both being completely comfortable in the life they’ve built together. Cody is a firefighter and is putting his life on the line daily while Andi is an ER nurse, both working long hours and saving people in different ways. But one day Andi’s worst fear becomes real when Cody loses his life in a fire, leaving her completely broken and lost. After months of drowning in grief and depression, Andi decides she needs a change and moves in with her BFF in Chicago. While trying to find herself and become the fun happy girl she use to be, she bumps into Spencer and he becomes completely enamored by her. Spencer can see that she’s going through something and wants to get to know her, but can Andi get over the guilt of moving on from Cody to take a chance on Spencer? 👀
You could feel the grief and depression Andi was going through in this book, and it made my heart break. Being in a long term relationship and having your life planned out one day to losing the one person that means the most to you in your life is a gut punch, and this author made you feel it all. Spencer is the perfect guy and he fell first and hard for Andi. When he found out what she’d gone through, he was all in and wanted to be who she needed. He was so caring and understanding and even with the twist in the end, he still stepped up to be the person Andi needed! It was a mature relationship with no 3rd act breakup which was nice, and the ended was the sweetest 🥰
The audiobook was duet narrated with a multicast! Having all the different narrators really brought the book to life and made it a really good listen. This book was so sad at first, but the HEA left you with that warm fuzzy feeling in your chest 🥰 This is the first book I’ve listened to by this author, and I’ll definitely be checking out more of their work ❤️
Through the Ashes is a book about loss, grief, depression, and finding a way move on with your life. Andi and Cody have been married for years, both being completely comfortable in the life they’ve built together. Cody is a firefighter and is putting his life on the line daily while Andi is an ER nurse, both working long hours and saving people in different ways. But one day Andi’s worst fear becomes real when Cody loses his life in a fire, leaving her completely broken and lost. After months of drowning in grief and depression, Andi decides she needs a change and moves in with her BFF in Chicago. While trying to find herself and become the fun happy girl she use to be, she bumps into Spencer and he becomes completely enamored by her. Spencer can see that she’s going through something and wants to get to know her, but can Andi get over the guilt of moving on from Cody to take a chance on Spencer? 👀
You could feel the grief and depression Andi was going through in this book, and it made my heart break. Being in a long term relationship and having your life planned out one day to losing the one person that means the most to you in your life is a gut punch, and this author made you feel it all. Spencer is the perfect guy and he fell first and hard for Andi. When he found out what she’d gone through, he was all in and wanted to be who she needed. He was so caring and understanding and even with the twist in the end, he still stepped up to be the person Andi needed! It was a mature relationship with no 3rd act breakup which was nice, and the ended was the sweetest 🥰
The audiobook was duet narrated with a multicast! Having all the different narrators really brought the book to life and made it a really good listen. This book was so sad at first, but the HEA left you with that warm fuzzy feeling in your chest 🥰 This is the first book I’ve listened to by this author, and I’ll definitely be checking out more of their work ❤️
November 27, 2025
4.5 Stars
Through the Ashes completely swept me up from the prologue, I was emotional within minutes. My heart ached for Andie and her experience with loss and grief. It was extremely relatable and the way grieving is portrayed was spot on with my own experience. The side characters were absolute stand outs who added a humorous layer without overdoing it.
And oh my goodness we meet Spencer. Sweet, steady, and smitten from the start. Watching Andie wrestle with opening her heart again felt so raw and deeply relatable, especially her struggle with caring too much about what others think. The book captures that complicated mix of hope, fear, and longing that grief leaves behind. Which is again SO relatable!
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. The writing, the emotion, the way every line out of Spencer’s mouth feels perfect. Elms does it all so well. This isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about friendship, healing, and figuring out how to LIVE after life shatters. It’s about second chances, the tenderness of love that stays, and the courage it takes to let someone in again.
Throughout the story, my heart was in a vice grip in the best way. I felt everything. A beautiful, emotional read about love that endures, even through the ashes.
I cannot wait for Maddie's book!
Thank you to The Author Agency and Emmie Elms for the ARC
Through the Ashes completely swept me up from the prologue, I was emotional within minutes. My heart ached for Andie and her experience with loss and grief. It was extremely relatable and the way grieving is portrayed was spot on with my own experience. The side characters were absolute stand outs who added a humorous layer without overdoing it.
And oh my goodness we meet Spencer. Sweet, steady, and smitten from the start. Watching Andie wrestle with opening her heart again felt so raw and deeply relatable, especially her struggle with caring too much about what others think. The book captures that complicated mix of hope, fear, and longing that grief leaves behind. Which is again SO relatable!
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. The writing, the emotion, the way every line out of Spencer’s mouth feels perfect. Elms does it all so well. This isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about friendship, healing, and figuring out how to LIVE after life shatters. It’s about second chances, the tenderness of love that stays, and the courage it takes to let someone in again.
Throughout the story, my heart was in a vice grip in the best way. I felt everything. A beautiful, emotional read about love that endures, even through the ashes.
I cannot wait for Maddie's book!
Thank you to The Author Agency and Emmie Elms for the ARC
July 18, 2026
I received the ALC from High Gravity Productions but the below review is my own.
I had no idea what I was going to be reading when I downloaded this audio. The book is listed as a contemporary romance but my heart felt like it was being ripped out and stomped on in the first 3 chapters and I hadn't even gotten to know the characters or really connect yet. Yikes!!!!
Andie Harris is a nurse and her husband Corey is a firefighter, but we lose him in the first couple of chapters. Andie has no idea what to do and is definitely living in her sadness of the loss. She pulls it together and gets a plan in place. She takes a temporary traveling nurse position in Chicago where her best friend lives. She has no idea what is in store for her but she needs to get out of Kansas and their house full of memories and get away from her toxic family.
Spencer is a real estate investor in Chicago with his brother and just happens to spot Andie in a coffee shop. Even with his brother trying to push him, he doesn't go speak to her. Queue the meet cute at a club and the we are off to the races with a couple of twists I certainly didn't see coming.
The audio is a full cast narration done in duet style and the casts performance really brings out the characters that Emmie Elms wrote. The struggle of Andie with a second chance at love plus her snarky side really shown through. The patience and understanding of Spencer with Andie's PTSD/Grief/Trauma responses and his protectiveness over her was palpable. The funny and sarcastic sides of his brother and her best friend my me laugh out loud. Not to mention the crazy and narcissism of Andie's mom and sister.
I wasn't sure what I was getting and contemporary isn't my go to genre but Emmie's writing and this narration cast quickly made this a favorite read!!!
Please review trigger warnings as there are heavy topics covered.
I had no idea what I was going to be reading when I downloaded this audio. The book is listed as a contemporary romance but my heart felt like it was being ripped out and stomped on in the first 3 chapters and I hadn't even gotten to know the characters or really connect yet. Yikes!!!!
Andie Harris is a nurse and her husband Corey is a firefighter, but we lose him in the first couple of chapters. Andie has no idea what to do and is definitely living in her sadness of the loss. She pulls it together and gets a plan in place. She takes a temporary traveling nurse position in Chicago where her best friend lives. She has no idea what is in store for her but she needs to get out of Kansas and their house full of memories and get away from her toxic family.
Spencer is a real estate investor in Chicago with his brother and just happens to spot Andie in a coffee shop. Even with his brother trying to push him, he doesn't go speak to her. Queue the meet cute at a club and the we are off to the races with a couple of twists I certainly didn't see coming.
The audio is a full cast narration done in duet style and the casts performance really brings out the characters that Emmie Elms wrote. The struggle of Andie with a second chance at love plus her snarky side really shown through. The patience and understanding of Spencer with Andie's PTSD/Grief/Trauma responses and his protectiveness over her was palpable. The funny and sarcastic sides of his brother and her best friend my me laugh out loud. Not to mention the crazy and narcissism of Andie's mom and sister.
I wasn't sure what I was getting and contemporary isn't my go to genre but Emmie's writing and this narration cast quickly made this a favorite read!!!
Please review trigger warnings as there are heavy topics covered.
December 3, 2025
What can I say about Emmie Elms debut novel...that she was able to capture the struggle one goes through when a tragic event happens. Everything from losing the love of your life, not be believing you are worthy of love again, and forgiveness.
When Andie lost her husband her grief was heartbreaking. Put that together with a toxic mother (the ones you hear about in those AITA posts), Andie didn't take long to decide she needed to get away for a while. Deciding to visit her friend, Maddie, would be a decision that change her life forever. This is where we meet Spencer, the sweet man who saved Andie from a sticky situation and from that moment wanted to be in her life forever. The story of Andie and Spencer is one for the books and in the process healing and forgiveness play a big part...Andie not only forgiving herself but everyone else in her life.
After reading Through the Ashes you do question if you can have more than one soul mate in your lifetime. I can't wait to see what Emmie has in store for us in Book Two!!!
When Andie lost her husband her grief was heartbreaking. Put that together with a toxic mother (the ones you hear about in those AITA posts), Andie didn't take long to decide she needed to get away for a while. Deciding to visit her friend, Maddie, would be a decision that change her life forever. This is where we meet Spencer, the sweet man who saved Andie from a sticky situation and from that moment wanted to be in her life forever. The story of Andie and Spencer is one for the books and in the process healing and forgiveness play a big part...Andie not only forgiving herself but everyone else in her life.
After reading Through the Ashes you do question if you can have more than one soul mate in your lifetime. I can't wait to see what Emmie has in store for us in Book Two!!!
July 14, 2026
I've never read anything from this author before but somehow, I just knew that this book was going to wrench my heart out, kick it around a while and then shove it back in all battered and bruised - and I was not wrong!
This grabbed me right from the start and I instantly fell in love with Cody and Andie.
Despite her bad dreams and worries, she had the perfect life....I til one day, disaster strikes and Cody is caught in a fire at work,waving Andie broken.
We hadn't really had time to connect with Cody yet, but I still felt this loss so bad and really felt for Andie.
After leaving her home to spend time with a friend, away from all the bad memories, we see Andie gradually rediscover who she is and again when Spencer shows her some kindness, she questions whether it's too soon to feel again.
There was so much push and pull with this story as I totally got that Andie felt guilty for betraying Cody, but Spencer was a total walking green flag.
He did absolutely everything right and even when he didn't know the full story, he was so understanding, supportive and compassionate with all that Andie brought to the relationship.
It was great to see their relationship developed like it did and just when we felt things would all be ok, we're slammed with news of secrets and lies which throw poor Andie a curve ball.
This was so beautifully written.
Despite the tough themes of grief and loss, the hope of new beginnings shone a light over the darkness making this balance out nicely.
I absolutely loved this - despite my poor heart! - and cannot wait to read more from this author and especially can't wait to get my hands on book 2 of this Life In Waves series.
This grabbed me right from the start and I instantly fell in love with Cody and Andie.
Despite her bad dreams and worries, she had the perfect life....I til one day, disaster strikes and Cody is caught in a fire at work,waving Andie broken.
We hadn't really had time to connect with Cody yet, but I still felt this loss so bad and really felt for Andie.
After leaving her home to spend time with a friend, away from all the bad memories, we see Andie gradually rediscover who she is and again when Spencer shows her some kindness, she questions whether it's too soon to feel again.
There was so much push and pull with this story as I totally got that Andie felt guilty for betraying Cody, but Spencer was a total walking green flag.
He did absolutely everything right and even when he didn't know the full story, he was so understanding, supportive and compassionate with all that Andie brought to the relationship.
It was great to see their relationship developed like it did and just when we felt things would all be ok, we're slammed with news of secrets and lies which throw poor Andie a curve ball.
This was so beautifully written.
Despite the tough themes of grief and loss, the hope of new beginnings shone a light over the darkness making this balance out nicely.
I absolutely loved this - despite my poor heart! - and cannot wait to read more from this author and especially can't wait to get my hands on book 2 of this Life In Waves series.
August 10, 2026
Wow, this book was amazing! I enjoyed it from beginning to end. The author has such an incredible gift with words and a way of bringing thoughts and observations to life that feels both clever and effortless. The analogies were so creative, and I especially loved the little sidebar trains of thought throughout the book. They added so much personality and had me genuinely laughing out loud on more than one occasion!
I love finding a book that not only keeps me engaged but also makes me stop, think, smile, and laugh along the way. The author’s voice and sense of humor really made this one stand out for me. It was such an enjoyable read, and I was honestly a little disappointed when I reached the end because I wasn’t ready for it to be over.
I’ll definitely be recommending this one to others, and I can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
I love finding a book that not only keeps me engaged but also makes me stop, think, smile, and laugh along the way. The author’s voice and sense of humor really made this one stand out for me. It was such an enjoyable read, and I was honestly a little disappointed when I reached the end because I wasn’t ready for it to be over.
I’ll definitely be recommending this one to others, and I can’t wait to see what the author writes next!
July 23, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅
🌶🌶
😱
I got this as an alc and holy mackerel. This girl goes through, it definitely goes through the Ashes apt to name for the book. Because yeah, I don't think I could have imagined that kind of Bologna that popped up, especially at the end. Oh, my goodness, you've got to listen to this book. The narrators did a fantastic job bringing it all to life. And I really liked
That you can pick out whose voice did what part I love that
🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅🧅
🌶🌶
😱
I got this as an alc and holy mackerel. This girl goes through, it definitely goes through the Ashes apt to name for the book. Because yeah, I don't think I could have imagined that kind of Bologna that popped up, especially at the end. Oh, my goodness, you've got to listen to this book. The narrators did a fantastic job bringing it all to life. And I really liked
That you can pick out whose voice did what part I love that
November 27, 2025
Good book that I enjoyed reading. It’s well written. Nothing to complain about. I would recommend this book to everyone
November 28, 2025
4.5
This debut novel hits the ground running. If you like a story with secrets, emotional scars and healing, second chance at love, a fresh start and a protective MMC then this is the story for you. This is a book that draws you in and keeps you engaged in what's going on. The storyline is really good I liked it as well as the characters. Andie and Spencer's story was nothing short of amazing. I also liked how the author touched on some sensitive topics in this and the way they were written. Overall, this was a very good read that I would recommend.
Thanks to the author and author agency for an advance copy. My opinions are my own and freely expressed.
This debut novel hits the ground running. If you like a story with secrets, emotional scars and healing, second chance at love, a fresh start and a protective MMC then this is the story for you. This is a book that draws you in and keeps you engaged in what's going on. The storyline is really good I liked it as well as the characters. Andie and Spencer's story was nothing short of amazing. I also liked how the author touched on some sensitive topics in this and the way they were written. Overall, this was a very good read that I would recommend.
Thanks to the author and author agency for an advance copy. My opinions are my own and freely expressed.
November 29, 2025
not the direction I thought it was going to go when I started reading but so much better. Couple of things that I'm not sure of about the FMC and MMC (maybe I missed) but they are good together. Hate for other characters grows toward the end lol
July 17, 2026
Sometimes when our life has tragedy in it we must walk through the ashes to get to the other side.
Just like Andie did in the story. She had to face the worst fear anyone would ever have to. It prevented her from trusting life itself. She never thought she could ever find true love again knowing at any moment she could lose it all again.
She must decided if she wants to live in the ashes or be able to open her heart to live and be loved.
Just like Andie did in the story. She had to face the worst fear anyone would ever have to. It prevented her from trusting life itself. She never thought she could ever find true love again knowing at any moment she could lose it all again.
She must decided if she wants to live in the ashes or be able to open her heart to live and be loved.
July 13, 2026
Get ready for lots of emotions. This book broke my heart in the first chapter but slowly it mended along with the FMCs. I really enjoyed this book. The healing journey she went through and the lessons behind it. Grief has no time limit and many people need to realize that. It's shorter for some and longer for others. It's a great lesson to be learned.
July 25, 2026
Andie and Spencer
A beautiful story of love, healing and second chances. An emotional rollercoaster of dealing with tragedy, a toxic mother, trying to move forward, secrets revealed, betrayal and found family. I really enjoyed listening/reading this. At first I thought Andie was a bit whiny but once everything went down and listening/reading how she dealt with it and everything that happened after changed my opinion. Spencer was so swooning, fallen right from the first time he saw Andie and showed that no matter what he was in it. There was a part in the epilogue that got me a bit teary eyed.
I received a copy and an audio copy and listened/read it through BookFunnel.
A beautiful story of love, healing and second chances. An emotional rollercoaster of dealing with tragedy, a toxic mother, trying to move forward, secrets revealed, betrayal and found family. I really enjoyed listening/reading this. At first I thought Andie was a bit whiny but once everything went down and listening/reading how she dealt with it and everything that happened after changed my opinion. Spencer was so swooning, fallen right from the first time he saw Andie and showed that no matter what he was in it. There was a part in the epilogue that got me a bit teary eyed.
I received a copy and an audio copy and listened/read it through BookFunnel.
July 28, 2026
Emotional and sweet. I am not usually into the insta connection but the way this MMC reacted to the FMC was great. I can't imagine losing my husband so how quickly she moved on was a little hard for me and I can see why some people (her family or readers) might have a hard time with it. I can see how it fit for her and it worked very well for the storyline.
July 15, 2026
Through the Ashes is an emotional story about healing, rediscovering yourself, and finding the courage to embrace a new beginning after unimaginable loss.
My heart ached for Andie as she tried to pick up the pieces of her life and figure out who she was outside of her grief. She's spent so much of her life putting others first, constantly second-guessing herself and trying to be the person everyone else needed. Watching her slowly heal, rediscover her dreams, and choose happiness for herself made her journey incredibly rewarding.
Spencer completely stole my heart as he never stopped showing up for Andie. He already knew she was worth fighting for, and his unwavering patience, support, and love gave Andie the safe space she needed to start building a new life. Spencer was exactly what Andi needed as she stepped onto a new path, and together they proved that even after life's curveballs, it's possible to find love, healing, and happiness again.
🎧 The full cast audiobook elevated the emotional impact of the story. Heather Costa & Jeffrey Kafer beautifully captured the vulnerability, grief, and hope woven throughout Andie and Spencer's journey. The full cast narration gave each character a distinct & authentic voice, adding depth and emotion to each scene. Their collective performances drew me in from beginning to end and made this story even more memorable.
This was a heartfelt, hopeful romance that beautifully balanced grief with the promise of new beginnings.
My heart ached for Andie as she tried to pick up the pieces of her life and figure out who she was outside of her grief. She's spent so much of her life putting others first, constantly second-guessing herself and trying to be the person everyone else needed. Watching her slowly heal, rediscover her dreams, and choose happiness for herself made her journey incredibly rewarding.
Spencer completely stole my heart as he never stopped showing up for Andie. He already knew she was worth fighting for, and his unwavering patience, support, and love gave Andie the safe space she needed to start building a new life. Spencer was exactly what Andi needed as she stepped onto a new path, and together they proved that even after life's curveballs, it's possible to find love, healing, and happiness again.
🎧 The full cast audiobook elevated the emotional impact of the story. Heather Costa & Jeffrey Kafer beautifully captured the vulnerability, grief, and hope woven throughout Andie and Spencer's journey. The full cast narration gave each character a distinct & authentic voice, adding depth and emotion to each scene. Their collective performances drew me in from beginning to end and made this story even more memorable.
This was a heartfelt, hopeful romance that beautifully balanced grief with the promise of new beginnings.
July 23, 2026
This was a pleasant surprise. I was afraid it would be too depressing, but it absolutely wasn't. The good overshadowed the sad parts easily. I'm also not usually a fan of insta-love, but this was done very well. The characters were honest and real.
I loved the twist near the end. It truly surprised me and added so much depth to the story!
If you are looking for a story that is different from the same ol' romance novel, check this out!
Thank you to the Author Agency for the gifted ALC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the twist near the end. It truly surprised me and added so much depth to the story!
If you are looking for a story that is different from the same ol' romance novel, check this out!
Thank you to the Author Agency for the gifted ALC in exchange for my honest review.
December 4, 2025
For a debut novel, this one really packs an emotional punch. I cried, laughed, and swooned over and over.
This book isn’t afraid to sit in the shadows of loss. Andie’s grief is the pulse of the story, it’s raw, unrelenting, and painfully real. She’s not able to just magically move on easily; she’s a woman clawing her way through the wreckage of what she’s lost, and every page feels like a confession of survival and soul wrenching grief. Her world was absolutely shattered and now she is just trying to rebuild.
Spencer enters her life completely unexpectedly, at a time where she doesn’t know how to process these new feelings so soon after her loss. What makes this book unforgettable is how Emmie Elms refuses to romanticize grief. Andie’s struggle is messy, and Spencer doesn’t “fix” her, he stands beside her, even when it hurts. The romance blooms in the cracks, fragile but fierce, and by the end, I was sobbing because it felt so earned.
Through the Ashes is about love that rises where it shouldn’t, about finding someone who doesn’t erase your pain but helps you carry it. Andie and Spencer’s story is devastating, tender, and impossible to forget.
As much as I loved this book, the ending wasn’t for me. I most definitely didn’t see it coming. But after Andie had already been through so much, that last hit felt like too much. The HEA was so well deserved for these two in the end, but all the drama and secrets were not my favorite.
A huge thank you to Emmie Elms and the Author Agency for the early copy to review.
This book isn’t afraid to sit in the shadows of loss. Andie’s grief is the pulse of the story, it’s raw, unrelenting, and painfully real. She’s not able to just magically move on easily; she’s a woman clawing her way through the wreckage of what she’s lost, and every page feels like a confession of survival and soul wrenching grief. Her world was absolutely shattered and now she is just trying to rebuild.
Spencer enters her life completely unexpectedly, at a time where she doesn’t know how to process these new feelings so soon after her loss. What makes this book unforgettable is how Emmie Elms refuses to romanticize grief. Andie’s struggle is messy, and Spencer doesn’t “fix” her, he stands beside her, even when it hurts. The romance blooms in the cracks, fragile but fierce, and by the end, I was sobbing because it felt so earned.
Through the Ashes is about love that rises where it shouldn’t, about finding someone who doesn’t erase your pain but helps you carry it. Andie and Spencer’s story is devastating, tender, and impossible to forget.
As much as I loved this book, the ending wasn’t for me. I most definitely didn’t see it coming. But after Andie had already been through so much, that last hit felt like too much. The HEA was so well deserved for these two in the end, but all the drama and secrets were not my favorite.
A huge thank you to Emmie Elms and the Author Agency for the early copy to review.
December 11, 2025
ARC Review
Book: Through The Ashes
Author: Emmie Elms
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book one of the Life in Waves series.
Such a beautiful story about healing and a second chance at love. This book hits you in the feels from the beginning.
Andy’s story made my heart ache from page one. She has overcome so much and showed how strong and resilient she is. Even when her heart is broken into pieces.
Then there’s Spencer who falls in love with Andy from the first time he saw her. He was convinced that she was it for him and he was not wrong. He was there for her when she needed her most and when she thought she didn’t need him.
This story is raw and beautifully written. Definitely worth reading.
Book: Through The Ashes
Author: Emmie Elms
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is book one of the Life in Waves series.
Such a beautiful story about healing and a second chance at love. This book hits you in the feels from the beginning.
Andy’s story made my heart ache from page one. She has overcome so much and showed how strong and resilient she is. Even when her heart is broken into pieces.
Then there’s Spencer who falls in love with Andy from the first time he saw her. He was convinced that she was it for him and he was not wrong. He was there for her when she needed her most and when she thought she didn’t need him.
This story is raw and beautifully written. Definitely worth reading.
December 2, 2025
🚨edited after audiobook🚨
🎧Okay so I just finished the audiobook and I am on fire about it. I absolutely loved the story (as you can see from my original review) but these voice actors literally brought this story to life. It’s a full cast and where I felt emotions from just reading it, I was enthralled by being able to listen to it. I absolutely recommend this audiobook. It. Is. Perfection.
Six star read alert!
I had to take a beat to process before writing this review. It was that good. It’s been a while since I literally couldn’t sleep because I had the need to finish a book. I absolutely LOVED this from the prologue. It was emotional and gripping. Oh gods I felt SO connected to Andie. Any emotion she felt, I did too. Spencer was a phenomenal MMC as well. I really must implore you to read this book!! So amazing!!
🎧Okay so I just finished the audiobook and I am on fire about it. I absolutely loved the story (as you can see from my original review) but these voice actors literally brought this story to life. It’s a full cast and where I felt emotions from just reading it, I was enthralled by being able to listen to it. I absolutely recommend this audiobook. It. Is. Perfection.
Six star read alert!
I had to take a beat to process before writing this review. It was that good. It’s been a while since I literally couldn’t sleep because I had the need to finish a book. I absolutely LOVED this from the prologue. It was emotional and gripping. Oh gods I felt SO connected to Andie. Any emotion she felt, I did too. Spencer was a phenomenal MMC as well. I really must implore you to read this book!! So amazing!!
December 5, 2025
Let me start by saying the element of surprise here is great! I have seen this plot twist on another book, but it still got me!! Especially because this one never indicated the possibility, whereas the other book did.
That being said, there are two things I want that made it a 4 star for me. Personal preference, though.
One, while I absolutely loved the MMC, I was sort of hoping for her to find love with the one that took care of her through her hard times (no spoilers!)
Two, I wasn't a fan of the hurry-up-and-wait aspect of the relationship between the FMC and MMC.
Side Note: The secret revealed at the end includes a trigger for me that wasn't listed in my ARC info. Still, including it would've definitely given away the big "nooooooo.. shut up!" moment of shock, so I totally get it.
Overall, it was a fantastic emotional ride. I highly recommend it!
That being said, there are two things I want that made it a 4 star for me. Personal preference, though.
One, while I absolutely loved the MMC, I was sort of hoping for her to find love with the one that took care of her through her hard times (no spoilers!)
Two, I wasn't a fan of the hurry-up-and-wait aspect of the relationship between the FMC and MMC.
Side Note: The secret revealed at the end includes a trigger for me that wasn't listed in my ARC info. Still, including it would've definitely given away the big "nooooooo.. shut up!" moment of shock, so I totally get it.
Overall, it was a fantastic emotional ride. I highly recommend it!
December 5, 2025
This is the first in a new series, as well as being a debut from this author, who has done an impressive job in weaving this tale.
Andie has the perfect life, until tragedy strikes, left with a life in ashes and memories. When Andie meets Spencer, she must choose whether to move on with her life, but when secrets are revealed about her not so perfect husband, Spencer is there for her.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, vulnerability, loss, grief, survival, secrets, second chances, healing, romance, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
Andie has the perfect life, until tragedy strikes, left with a life in ashes and memories. When Andie meets Spencer, she must choose whether to move on with her life, but when secrets are revealed about her not so perfect husband, Spencer is there for her.
This is a well written easy to read, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, vulnerability, loss, grief, survival, secrets, second chances, healing, romance, revelations, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartfelt page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author whose work I recommend.
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