Crown of Shattered Thrones

Night and Rain #2

by Susan Person

Some bonds are forged in starlight. Others are written in blood.

With Rain by her side and an army of fae rallying to her cause, Ari must infiltrate the vampire palace where she was once tortured to save her sister. Her father, Albert, holds her sister and Rain's brother like offerings on an altar. He knows his daughter's weakness. Ari loves with the fury of dying stars, destructive and absolute.

To save everyone she loves, Ari might have to become the very monster she's fighting against.

Because when you're touched by a goddess, the line between salvation and destruction is razor-thin.

When darkness bleeds starlight, heroes become myths .

333 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2025

About the author

Susan Person is an award-winning author most notably winning the Paranormal Category of the National Excellence in Story Telling (NEST) contest with Fallen in 2024. As a pre-published author, she was a finalist in the On the Far Side dark paranormal category and The Shelia Contest. She belongs to the North Texas Romance Writers in Dallas where she actively started pursuing her career as an author. She writes badass empowered heroines who take charge in their dark paranormal and fantasy worlds. A lifelong learner, Susan returned to college a few years ago to pursue a degree in anthropology and graduated Summa Cum Laude.


Susan grew up on a thoroughbred horse farm before moving to the big city of Dallas. She considers herself a Texan but is loyal to her home state of Arkansas. A lover of travel, she has visited several countries with many more to go on her list. One of her favorite trips involved dowsing over ley lines at Stonehenge. The outdoors is a place where Susan finds inspiration and can often be found in a park, at the lake, or on a road trip. She especially loves the mountains. Furry animals hold a special place in her heart, and dogs tend to seek her out as a friend.
Susan grew up on a thoroughbred horse farm before moving to the big city of Dallas. She considers herself a Texan but is loyal to her home state of Arkansas. A lover of travel, she has visited several countries with many more to go on her list. She particularly loved dowsing at Stonehenge. The outdoors is a place where Susan finds inspiration and can often be found in a park, at the lake, or on a road trip. She especially loves the mountains. Furry animals hold a special place in her heart, and dogs tend to seek her out as a friend.

Reviews

[BooksBooksandmoreBooks69 · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Crown of Shattered Thrones" is an intense read that delves into the depths of love, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil. This world is filled with tension, rich lore, and the haunting echoes of both curses and dreams.

Ari, a fiercely determined character who embodies the raw power of love and ambition. Alongside her companion, Rain, and a diverse band of fae, she embarks on a perilous mission to infiltrate the vampire palace that once held her captive. The stakes are immeasurable, her sister and Rain's brother are held by her father, Albert, who seems to revel in the emotional turmoil he creates.

Susan’s writing is vivid, pulling us into a vivid tapestry of emotions and struggles. The atmosphere is rich with darkness and starlight, creating a sense of wonder while simultaneously captivating the grim realities of Ari's quest. The duality of her character, torn between heroism and potential monstrosity, adds to her journey. You can feel her desperation and determination as she faces her past and fights against it.

Ari's journey forces her to confront not only her relationships with others but also what it means to wield power responsibly.

The author’s ability to weave intricate plot twists keeps us on our toes. The pacing is well balanced, bouncing between heart pounding action and moments of introspection, ensuring a thrilling reading experience from beginning to end.
The world building is astoundingly immersive, mixing elements of romance and fantasy.

“Crown of Shattered Thrones" is a powerful tale of love, sacrifice, and the struggle between light and dark. With complex characters, Susan invites us into a world where dreams and curses intertwine.

It’s a compelling read for anyone passionate about fantasy, and it leaves you yearning for more as you turn the final pages.

If you love heroines that are strong, enchanting worlds, and gripping stakes, "Crown of Shattered Thrones" is a must read!

🦋

*copy supplied for review

[Shawna Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book and the plot to find where Albert has gone. Although I did not read the first book in this series, this was still very easy to follow and the world building was great! I love that you could feel the way the suspense was being worked up to the big fight and the way it turned out has me impatiently waiting for the next book in the series!

Thank you Valentine PR and Susan Person for the ARC of this novel 🖤

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was SO ready to be back in the world of Ari and Rain’s story. Of course, fan favorites - Cyrus, Gemma and Laurel return- what is the whole series without them?!? This series completely sucks you in- more and more with each book! The world building, the character building, the relationship building… GOLD. Susan has a way of writing that immediately puts you into the fantasy story world without the long, drawn out building up to it. Right away you are immersed and I loved it. Don’t get me wrong, I love world
building in books- BUT I love the fast paced, learn as you go, tossed right into the plot kind of story! This whole series is that way❤️

As usual, I can’t wait for the next book! This book and that cliffhanger had me feeling all the different emotions!

[Amanda | escapetoerilea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones by Susan Person
The Night and Rain series book 2
Releases 10/30

Thank you to Grey's Promotions and Susan for entrusting me with an early copy!

Multiple POV, fated mates, reunited lovers, supernatural powers, age gap, forbidden love, strong FMCs, fae/vampires/unicorn shifters, evil king, high stakes

Skipping the mini blurb because I can't make it less spoilery!

This series continues to suck me in! This book continued the story with all our crew back in the action and oh man things are looking rough. I must say I was so happy with a certain reunion but so sad for all that they went through first! Everything is feeling bigger and weightier and oh the ending! I need the next book! (Also props to the chocolate cake making a comeback!)

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Susan has left me on the edge of my seat begging for more. Crown of Shattered Thrones is the next installment of An Empire of Curses and Dreams series. We step right back into the realm with Ari and Rain, and we are immediately assaulted with tension, impossible choices, and emotional trauma.

Every part of this realm is described in such vivid detail as they travel through out it while conflict continues to build. Each characters perspective adds something special and dynamic to the plot line creating a fuller story. Even the side characters have a special part to play and they are all so unique.

“Why are you so nervous? I’m the one getting jabbed by Doctor Make It Hurt.”

With the danger increasing at every turn, and a foretelling that could mean the survival or destruction of the realm, this book is ramping up for a finale that is sure to blow your mind. I, for one, am just hoping to that these characters are going to get a well earned Happily Ever After they deserve instead of destruction.

“Loved is what you were meant to feel. You are the reason the moon rises in the night sky.”

P.S.- Susan, how could you treat my man Cyrus like that? I think that he has punished himself enough with feelings of guilt but to let the council punish him too!?!?!


Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️

Tropes:
Fated Mates
Strong Heroine
Protective Hero
Forbidden Love
Supernatural Powers
Age Gap
He Fell First
Reunited Lovers

Thank you to Susan Person and Grey’s Promotions for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review

[Shelby Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

The RayView: ✨✨✨✨
The HeatRay:
How It Be Spicin’?:🌶️🌶️🌶️
.
😮‍💨 I couldn’t wait to get my hands on book two of this series. Shout out to Grey’s Promo and Susan Person for allowing me to ARC this entire series so far. 😭 It’s such a blessing. This novel was whiplash! The constant go, go, go made me crave a quiet reprieve of day to day activities. 😂 The children were refreshing as always with their no-nonsense attitude. Marius had me laughing which caught me by surprise in the best way. And I was glad to see everyone all in one place at last! 🖤 The ending was so cruel and now I wait once again for more. 😩
.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kandi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love everything Susan has written ! Especially this series! Omg Ari and Rain! Cyrus,Laurel and Gemma ! Just omg their love is passionate and so swoon worthy!

I cant wait for the next book to come out! That cliff hanger let me tell you! Did not expect that!!!!

[Marissa McCrady - reezzareads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! Favorite of the series so far! I love the characters in this series. They have such a strong bond and there’s so much love between them. I loved the multiple POV and the writing and banter is so good!

Ari and Rain definitely have couple goals energy. I love how much they care and respect one another. Ari is such a badass and I loved her in this book. I can’t wait to see what path she chooses in the next.

This series has really good world building and I really love how everything has connected this far. There’s a battle coming and I’m scared for what’s to happen.

[Book.Lover.1986 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved being back with Ari and Rain.

Once again Susan has written a great story that flows really well.

I can’t wait to see where she takes this series.

[Crystal D · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love this story so much!! there’s so much more coming and I cannot wait! I loved Cyrus book and was happy to see him in this book especially towards the end.. He had been through it in his book n went through it this one also. Im ready for Albert to just disappear but I fear this was just the beginning and im more concerned for Drew. That ending!?! Wtfff don’t get me wrong it’s not horrible it’s more like wait what… Rain is gonna lose his mind! I was a bit worried when Merrick showed up but her friendship with Aria was enjoyable to witness and umm please explain Orla…I see what u did there..lol

[realms.of.romantasy (Cara B) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️/5

Another fabulous installment in the Empire of Curses and Dreams world!

This is such a fantastic world with so much vivid detail. I have thoroughly enjoyed watching every one of these characters grow. Ari has certainly come into her own after all the harrowing cruelty she faces at Albert’s hands. And I was so happy to see more from Cyrus’ POV!

I am eager to see where the story goes after that ending.

Fae, unicorn shifters, vampires

Thank you to Grey’s Promotion and Susan Person for the advance eARC.

[Lizzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like a true evil queen Miss person has returned to deliver yet another story that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you scream at an amazing cliffhanger that makes you only want more.

I adored the developing friendships (no spoilers, bro!) within the story and Cyrus, oh Cyrus, you still own my heart like no other before you.

After all of this chaos, if that “one person” doesn’t get slapped around in the next story, I vote we show up at Susan’s next signing with pitchforks and demand justice.

I need book 3 like yesterday because I am addicted.

Oh, and Merrick needs her own story. If you disagree, I don’t like you.

[Lauren Sabolcik · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐ | 3🌶️
The second book in the Night and Rain Series, Crown of Shattered Thrones is the magnetic continuation of Arianna’s journey of self-discovery and vengeance. And while it’s technically book two in this series, it’s the fourth installment in Susan Person’s larger An Empire of Curses and Dreams universe—a bit confusing, sure, but absolutely worth navigating, because all four books share the same rich world and the same captivating characters I’ve come to love.

Person broadens Ari and Rain’s story beautifully, weaving in delightful breadcrumbs for readers who love hunting for clues… wink wink, I see you Susan. We get intriguing and enlightening insights into the history of the realm and its inhabitants. Although this book centers on Arianna and Rainer, the development of the returning cast is genuinely satisfying. Ari struggles beneath the growing burden of her power—torn between gratitude, guilt, and the responsibilities tied to it—while Rain supports her in every imaginable way. And several family members and close friends are finally coming to conclusions we as readers have been screaming at them to make from the beginning.

Thematically, the story is inspiring. It’s about discovering that the answers to the hardest questions often lie in the simplest, purest places. It’s about justice, redemption, and stepping fully into power—whether you feel ready or not.

The pacing is immersive and plot-driven, but when the spice arrives, it is well worth the wait. Ari and Rain’s tension is utterly torturous in the best way—their banter, their near-touches, the charged proximity… it all builds into a slow burn that delivers.

And while this may primarily be Ari and Rain’s book, I can’t help rooting for Gemma, Laurel, and Cyrus. Their dynamic is electric, and their arcs were some of my favorite moments in the entire read. I can’t wait to see where their storyline goes next.

Thank you to Susan Person and Grey’s Promo for the ARC.

✨ What to Expect ✨
🔥 Elemental Magic | 💘 Fated Mates | ❤️‍🔥 Romantasy | 🦄 Shifter Romance | 💬 Banter | 🚫 Forbidden Love | ⚔️ High Stakes | 😬 Tense | 🛡️ Protective Hero | 🗡️ Stabby Badass FMC | 💫 Redemption | 👑 Chosen | 🌌 Destiny | 👨‍👩‍👧 Family Bonds |🩸 Brutal

🩷💚🩷💚

[Lindsey Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️

Susan Person takes readers on a wonderful and intense journey with her book Crown of Shattered Thrones. It is book 2 in the series, while the 4th story in the series An Empire of Curses and Dreams. Since the beginning of this series, Susan has immersed readers in vivid storytelling, complex storylines, and dynamic character development.

Ari is a fierce and determined FMC whose journey has joined her with a group of fae. As they journey to the place that Ari was once held captive, she is driven by the immense love she has for her brother and sister, who are still being held by their father. Not only does this journey put Ari in situations that have her fighting physical beings, she is also fighting an inner battle. One of which has her growing powers teetering on which side of the line they want to fall.

Rain continues to fight alongside Ari, both physically and mentally. He helps ground Ari in ways nothing else can. The love between these two continues to burn bright and creates a bond between them that is easy to feel through the pages. Rain helps to keep Ari grounded and reminds her of who she is.

This story has been a wild ride from the very beginning. Every book within the series keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering what is going to happen next. Susan is truly a gifted writer who knows how to deliver a powerful tale that weaves romance, heroism, and found family into an amazing story!

As always, review any author notes before reading.

What to Expect:
💞Fated Mates
💫Reunited Lovers
💞Strong FMC
💫Age Gap Romance
💞Protective MMC
💫Magic and Supernatural Characters

[Jess Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

When evil threatens your world, are you going to stand up and meet your destiny?

Crown of Shattered Thrones is the latest e novel in the Empire of Curses and Dreams world and continues with the intense storyline and relationships that we have come to love.

Person takes us back to Ari and Rain and where we left off at the end of Crown of Ruined Oaths. As the group fights to free those they love from captivity then work to find a way to finish Albert, relationships are tested, relationships are formed, and some are strengthened through the twists and turns that appear.

Ari and Rain are still the intense, steamy mates that push and support each other in the best of ways. They both have internal battles to face as they grow into the leaders they will need to be to complete the task Nyx has given Ari. Gemma, Laurel, Marius, Casimir, and Cyrus are all a large part of this journey and each have stories of their own that provide even more depth and drama. Characters we have seen and read about before become a bigger part of the story as the battle rages and everyone must pull together to save the world.

This series just keeps getting better as Person ramps up the struggle between good and evil and the relationships between the characters. Ari and Rain’s story is full of love, heat, and devotion, but Cyrus’ story continues to evolve the most and remains my favorite of the side stories.

Come join Ari as she works with those she loves to fulfill her destiny and becomes the leader she needs to be.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones picks up right where we left Ari and Rain at the end of Crown of Night and Rain. From the first chapter, this book is fast past and action packed as Ari and Rain, along with a cast of fae and unicorns, fight to rescue their family and stop her father, Albert, and the vampires. And still throughout the book, there are wonderful moments of tenderness, love, a few laughs, and the right amount of spice. Everyone needs a little chocolate cake reference.

I absolutely love Ari and Rain. Throughout this book we see Ari grow into her new abilities and understand what it means to have Nyx’s powers. She is the one of the strongest FMCs, and is supported by an equally strong MMC.

This was the perfect second book in the series with wonderful continued development in the plot, character growth, and action to keep the reader engaged. For greatest enjoyment, I would recommend reading the series in order. I can’t wait for the next chapter in this series!

Definitely check out the series if you love;
💫 Fated Mates
💫 Supernatural powers
💫 Fae and Unicorns
💫 Age Gap
💫 Reunited lovers
💫 Strong FMC

[Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones is book 2 in the Night and Rain Series. These books follow one continuous timeline and need to be read in order. This story does have some adult elements and should be read by those that are 18+.

Oh Susan......I. love Ari and Rains so much but you have created a world that has meany characters to fall for. This story and series is intense. It deals with the betrayal of Ari and her family by their father, King Albert. While I will not say what happens in tis story because of potential spoilers, you will get a tone of action sequences, vampires, epic romance and some very spicy scenes between Ari and Rain. It is a wonderful series that will capture your attention and have you needing to know what happens. I love the strong friendships that are built and the secrets revealed that give you so much understanding of what some of the characters have been through. Take a chance on this one. Make sure you start with Crown of Night and Rain then jump into this one. Enjoy and happy reading.

[Sarah Landis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones returns us to this world with sharp edges and starlit stakes, and I devoured every moment of it. Sliding back into Ari and Rain’s story felt like stepping into a realm brimming with tension and impossible choices. The battles are bigger and the emotional pressure hits harder this time around.

The expanded POVs add depth and texture, pulling threads from the novellas into a fuller, richer tapestry. Every perspective reveals new motivations and secrets, amplifying the weight of what’s at stake.

With an army rallying, a palace dripping with danger, and a razor-thin line between salvation and destruction, this installment builds beautifully toward a finale that promises to be explosive. I’m fully invested, anxious, and hoping these characters can claw their way to a well-earned happily ever after.

Starlight, blood, and destiny collide... and I’m absolutely here for it.

[Enelyae Is Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG YES!! I love this series so far and love all the characters!! GIVE ME MORE CYRUS!! I love Cyrus so much and their little family! I really don’t understand all the unicorn politics…..some of it Im seriously questioning it but as long as Cyrus gets to be happy, that’s all I care about.

Alright so this story keeps getting better and better! I love how much Ari is growing and how strong she is getting is fantastic but seriously can this group not catch a break?! God the shit they go through! Poor Gemma, man she deserves so many hugs! Okay so I will admit I am liking Merrick. She has definitely changed her ways since Gemma’s book and I’m glad. She seems like she would be a good friend to Ari, which she needs.

Seriously so excited for the next book!! Thanks you Susan!! 🫶🫶

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️.5

[Charlotte Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones is listed as book 2 in the series but it the 4th book in the series that I have read. There is the start of the series, listed as book 0, and a novella, listed as book 1.5. You must, MUST, read this series in order. Each book starts where the book before it ends.



I am so hooked on this series. The paranormal characters are still realistic enough to understand and their lives are real enough to care about. Ari and Rain are fighting to save Ari's sister and Rain's brother from Ari's father. Sounds complicated but it is more of a twist. The twist is AMAZING! I care so much about what is happening to each character that I reread the first four books just so that I could revist the characters while waiting for this book to be released.

[Angee Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book of the Night and Rain Series. These books follow one continuous timeline and need to be read in order. The world building in this book is phenomenal! Every detail of the realm is described in such vivid details as if you were there. The characters are well thought out and add to the story. Even the side characters have an impact on the story. The MCs have to deal with impossible choices and emotional trauma. There is danger at every turn and they have to figure out how to survive not only for themselves but for the realm. The story is intense. The storyline will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Can’t wait for the final book in the series to see if they get their HEA

[Marsha Graniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones is an intense romantasy that is filled with mates, loyalty, and adventure. This is a continuation to the first book growing more into the storyline of the Fae’s and Ari. Ari is such a strong character, I love her determination and the friendships she has built to fight back her father. I love how we see her grow and become powerful with the help of Nyx and Rain. I also love that we get more into the storyline of Cyrus, which adds more to the story. This story continues with more twists and secrets coming out. I really enjoyed their story and couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait to see what happens next.

I voluntarily leave an honest review of this gifted advance reader copy.

[Patsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whats good and whats evil? When do the lines between the two blur?

This book in written from multiple points of view but Ive always loved that. I loved reading Ari and Rains continuing story. If you have heart issues, then don't read this because it's going to take you on an emotional journey.

The writing was so immersive that I felt like I was right there next to them living every moment. Not to mention on the side characters like Cyrus and Gemma give me all those found family feels. This cast of characters is truly amazing.

BUT .... hello .... Susan .... what were you thinking with that cliffhanger? My mind and my heart can't take much more. I will need the next installment ASAP! I am a fan. 5 out of 5 stars.

[Tara White · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fae vs Vampire. Albert won't stop until he gains all the power in the world.

This is the second book in the Empire of Curses and Dreams Series. I enjoyed the characters: Rain would burn the world for Ari - it's so romantic. The plot was done really well- Gods and Goddesses, old world blood... it was very mystical or mythological in my opinion. All the different characters backstories added depth to the story. It was really well done. It was very spicy maybe four chili's.

The pacing was fast and I was hooked from the start. It was different but in a really good way.

I would definitely recommend if you like romantasy books like From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout.

[Jamila zaidan · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review ✨
⭐️ 4/5 stars
🌶️ 1–2 chilli peppers

✨Huge thank you to Greys promo and Susan Person for this ARC for an honest review 💕✨

✨Some bonds are forged in starlight. Others are written in blood.✨

✨Being back in this world was such a treat! This sequel picks up with Ari and Rain rallying an army of fae and diving straight into danger. The story is fast-paced, emotional, and packed with action, love, and impossible choices.✨

✨I loved getting more of these characters — the multiple POVs kept things intense and layered. The return of the chocolate cake scene 👀 and Cyrus with the truffles 😮‍💨🤤 had me grinning like an idiot.✨

✨ Read this series if you love a -
Strong FMC 
Vampires, unicorns & fae 
fast paced & multi pov
I’m already desperate for book 3… because that ending?! 🫣✨

[Keanna Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

***ARC REVIEW***
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I had been waiting and waiting for @susanwritespnr to release this book! I was so happy that we finally got some answers to that cliff hanger in book 1. I really can’t wait to see where this story goes from here on out, but I am so happy with the results that we have received.

I’m loving how the MC’s relationship is developing, the world building and especially the still evolving plot. So excited to see what’s gonna happen next!

[Diamanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hello, people!
First of all, let me say that this is the second book in the Night and Rain series.
Even though I didn't read the first book in the series, I managed to get into the story and the world building. The
characters are well-developed and the author's writing is full of emotion and has a lot of imagination.

Thanks to the author and Grey's Promotions for the eARC!
This is my honest review!

[Deandra Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually dig this series. It’s such a mixture of magical beings and different world that I haven’t experienced in any other book (which is saying a LOT). This is the 2nd book technically in the series, although the 3rd book released since there was a novella in between. I won’t lie…I missed Rainier. Ari is G O D D E S S energy, end of story.

[Shirin Rasheed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crown of Shattered Thrones is a tale of Light and Dark, Love and Loyalty. An Intense and page turning read of Fantasy world that pulls in you till the last page.

Cannot Recommend it enough to all readers. A Must read.

[Janene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved being back in the world, the suspense and emotions were brilliant. The blurred lines between good and evil will have you on the edge of your seat. The ending has me desperately needing the next book in the series