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The Abyss
"Will Onyx's fight ignite a new era or freedom, or will the shadows of his past extinguish the flame of the rebellion?"
The As the Governments most powerful soldier, Onyx's decisions shape many fates. Yet, behind closed doors corruption brews, setting stage for the revolution.
The Imprisoned by the regime he once served, Onyx grapples with the weight of his past and the dawning truth of why he is so deeply desired by those in power.
The In the wilds, Onyx's voice becomes a rallying cry for revolution, uniting the scattered and fearful. Yet, as enemies surface, the path to freedom grows increasingly intangible.
The As the Governments most powerful soldier, Onyx's decisions shape many fates. Yet, behind closed doors corruption brews, setting stage for the revolution.
The Imprisoned by the regime he once served, Onyx grapples with the weight of his past and the dawning truth of why he is so deeply desired by those in power.
The In the wilds, Onyx's voice becomes a rallying cry for revolution, uniting the scattered and fearful. Yet, as enemies surface, the path to freedom grows increasingly intangible.
591 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 2, 2025
8 people are currently reading
72 people want to read
About the author
Asher D. Payne
4 books74 followersAsher 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 5, 2025
Asher D. payne has done it again. the abyss absolutely destroyed me. the evocative prose had me in tears almost constantly. no other book has ever made me cry so much before. payne is nothing short of a genius when it comes to plotting. as the reader you have no idea what is going to come next, but it’s obviously been planned out methodically with huge scope, every sentence is delivered with intention and leads you further along into her world.
July 8, 2025
Wow. Wow. Wow. Asher has done it again. I have no words literally. So much happened in this book that you think you’re going to catch a breather but you don’t. So much has went down that not only have I cried during work(my co workers are now concerned for my well being), I’ve cried then transitioned into a what the fuck is going on. As the author keeps saying.
Trust. No. One.
Trust. No. One.
July 8, 2025
♾️/5 ⭐️
Holy. Shit. This book took me through some of the most insane emotions a book has ever taken me through.
In this book, we delve deeper into Onyx, Jasper and Rayne’s past. I absolutely adore the relationship and banter between these three, everytime they’re together I’m always laughing about something.
It is so hard for me to review this book because it’s the second in a series, so I will just say PLEASE. READ. IT. Never in my life have I read a series with this many twists, mind games, betrayal, etc. I had to set the book down and just stare into space to process almost every single chapter. Asher is amazing at ending every single chapter leaving you wanting more.
Laughter, tears, anger, confusion, QUESTIONS. That about sums up the emotional roller coaster this book took me on. Every time I thought everything was going to be okay, guess what happened? I WAS SLAPPED IN THE FACE.😃
If you take any of my recommendations seriously, let it be this series. I’m only two books in and I can already tell you I will never, EVER be shutting up about it.
Holy. Shit. This book took me through some of the most insane emotions a book has ever taken me through.
In this book, we delve deeper into Onyx, Jasper and Rayne’s past. I absolutely adore the relationship and banter between these three, everytime they’re together I’m always laughing about something.
It is so hard for me to review this book because it’s the second in a series, so I will just say PLEASE. READ. IT. Never in my life have I read a series with this many twists, mind games, betrayal, etc. I had to set the book down and just stare into space to process almost every single chapter. Asher is amazing at ending every single chapter leaving you wanting more.
Laughter, tears, anger, confusion, QUESTIONS. That about sums up the emotional roller coaster this book took me on. Every time I thought everything was going to be okay, guess what happened? I WAS SLAPPED IN THE FACE.😃
If you take any of my recommendations seriously, let it be this series. I’m only two books in and I can already tell you I will never, EVER be shutting up about it.
July 8, 2025
I love reading book series’. I love the depth of story that a long series can provide. Book one always pulls me in. Book two keeps me interested but usually there is that inevitable lull that comes with expounding on a complicated plot driven story. The Abyss not only doesn’t have a lull, it barely lets you breathe. When The Illumination ends you crave answers, you need to know what happens next, but more than anything you need to know what drives these characters that you’ve come to adore. The Abyss begins with backstory. We see how the relationships that are so throughly cemented came to be. Events that were hinted at in book one are retold through the eyes of our rebels and they break your heart all over again. It’s so clever how the author uses these stories to not only clarify the past but to also bring into focus characters that will become increasingly important in the present. When part one is over and we circle back to the present day you feel ready to face the future and feel like you have a solid foundation for what is to come. The core relationship between Onyx, Jasper and Rayne is so special. It’s clear that everyone has their own motivations but their love and friendship is never in question.
“In a world where loss was a constant companion, I found solace in their continued existence. Their loyalty and camaraderie were invaluable.”
As we move into the present and see what is to come with these characters, motivation and allegiance becomes very important. Just because you can sympathize with a character’s motives doesn’t mean that they are “good”. This is a theme that will play out constantly in this series. Every person has their own allegiances, oaths and bonds to uphold and protect. These paths will not always align but will that affect your overall perception of someone?? If the intention is to protect the ones you love at all costs, you have to be prepared to be the villain in someone else’s story. Almost everyone has motivations that at some point could be considered honorable but where is the line? When is it too far? These questions are what make this book so fascinating. While all of this is happening and churning in your brain, Asher never lets up. There is always action, love, banter and fantastic imagery simultaneously happening in the foreground. This book makes you think but it also entertains you which is such a hard line to walk.
“I never wanted to be anything other than myself, but they have stripped that from me since before any of this began. Others have always shaped, curated and polished me into what they desire. And I am done. Perhaps that makes me the villain in your story—but in mine, it’s about time I start being my own hero.”
These characters have my whole heart. They are complex, hilarious, flawed and simply put, badass. When they hurt, I hurt and their love for each other makes me love them more. I cried, more times than I would like to count, but not just in sadness. The snippets of joy that these characters can find in their bleak existence mean so much more because they are so few and far between. You will feel every raw emotion between them. Their desperation to make their feelings known only heightens the overall stakes while reading. Asher’s ability to write human relationships and emotion are incredible. Every interaction is meaningful and poignant. I could go on and on about this book. Ultimately, all else aside this story is about humanity and what we would do to maintain it, even in the face of our own demise. There is genuine evil and an end goal for these characters. The rebellion is constantly changing and adapting, but the cost of their fight remains to be seen. I can’t wait to continue this journey. I know there will be pain, confusion and frustration, but this story is worth it all.
“In a world where loss was a constant companion, I found solace in their continued existence. Their loyalty and camaraderie were invaluable.”
As we move into the present and see what is to come with these characters, motivation and allegiance becomes very important. Just because you can sympathize with a character’s motives doesn’t mean that they are “good”. This is a theme that will play out constantly in this series. Every person has their own allegiances, oaths and bonds to uphold and protect. These paths will not always align but will that affect your overall perception of someone?? If the intention is to protect the ones you love at all costs, you have to be prepared to be the villain in someone else’s story. Almost everyone has motivations that at some point could be considered honorable but where is the line? When is it too far? These questions are what make this book so fascinating. While all of this is happening and churning in your brain, Asher never lets up. There is always action, love, banter and fantastic imagery simultaneously happening in the foreground. This book makes you think but it also entertains you which is such a hard line to walk.
“I never wanted to be anything other than myself, but they have stripped that from me since before any of this began. Others have always shaped, curated and polished me into what they desire. And I am done. Perhaps that makes me the villain in your story—but in mine, it’s about time I start being my own hero.”
These characters have my whole heart. They are complex, hilarious, flawed and simply put, badass. When they hurt, I hurt and their love for each other makes me love them more. I cried, more times than I would like to count, but not just in sadness. The snippets of joy that these characters can find in their bleak existence mean so much more because they are so few and far between. You will feel every raw emotion between them. Their desperation to make their feelings known only heightens the overall stakes while reading. Asher’s ability to write human relationships and emotion are incredible. Every interaction is meaningful and poignant. I could go on and on about this book. Ultimately, all else aside this story is about humanity and what we would do to maintain it, even in the face of our own demise. There is genuine evil and an end goal for these characters. The rebellion is constantly changing and adapting, but the cost of their fight remains to be seen. I can’t wait to continue this journey. I know there will be pain, confusion and frustration, but this story is worth it all.
July 17, 2025
So let’s talk about The Abyss because WOW. Asher D. Payne did not come to play with this sequel. The Abyss is everything a sequel should be, deeper, darker, and even more emotionally intense than the first.
The book opens before The Fall focusing on Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne in the time before rebellion consumed their lives. This glimpse into their past is haunting and beautifully written. Getting this emotional look into their shared trauma is a deeply personal punch to the chest that wrecked me.
From there, we’re thrown right back into the chaos where The Illumination left off. The present-day story is tense and fast-paced. New connections are being made, and unlikely alliances are being formed, while in the background secrets are multiplying. Everyone has an agenda, and no one’s hands are clean.
Even with all the action and intensity, the banter between characters is much needed. It’s the perfect amount of humor to balance out the heavier moments.
This story is truly emotional at its core. Even with the high level of suspense, The Abyss never loses sight of humanity as a focal point with themes of grief, identity, loyalty, and trauma. I felt every heartbreak and hard decision being made as if I was living it alongside the characters.
And the twists? Yeah, I didn’t see any of them coming. Payne has a talent for surprising you right when you think you’ve figured it all out. I was constantly on my toes, and I flew through the last few chapters just trying to catch my breath.
The Abyss is fast-paced, emotional, and seriously addictive. It builds on everything that made The Illumination great and raises the stakes in every way. I laughed, I gasped, I stressed, I cried, and now I desperately need the next book.
The book opens before The Fall focusing on Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne in the time before rebellion consumed their lives. This glimpse into their past is haunting and beautifully written. Getting this emotional look into their shared trauma is a deeply personal punch to the chest that wrecked me.
From there, we’re thrown right back into the chaos where The Illumination left off. The present-day story is tense and fast-paced. New connections are being made, and unlikely alliances are being formed, while in the background secrets are multiplying. Everyone has an agenda, and no one’s hands are clean.
Even with all the action and intensity, the banter between characters is much needed. It’s the perfect amount of humor to balance out the heavier moments.
This story is truly emotional at its core. Even with the high level of suspense, The Abyss never loses sight of humanity as a focal point with themes of grief, identity, loyalty, and trauma. I felt every heartbreak and hard decision being made as if I was living it alongside the characters.
And the twists? Yeah, I didn’t see any of them coming. Payne has a talent for surprising you right when you think you’ve figured it all out. I was constantly on my toes, and I flew through the last few chapters just trying to catch my breath.
The Abyss is fast-paced, emotional, and seriously addictive. It builds on everything that made The Illumination great and raises the stakes in every way. I laughed, I gasped, I stressed, I cried, and now I desperately need the next book.
July 25, 2025
My emotions have boycotted for the next 3 days- I am just staring at the wall.
After finishing The Illumination I immediately tore into The Abyss. The backstory of Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne is heartbreaking. You are given all of the depravity and destruction that they endured leading up to us meeting them in Book 1.
We then pick up where The Illumination ended. There are new faces, new allies, new and old enemies. Love, loss, betrayals... Asher is creating one of the most magnificent worlds, a type of fantasy universe that I haven't fallen into since reading Robin Hobb or Terry Godkind. The dystopian backdrop is perfect for the high-stakes drama that occurs, making certain scenes even more heart-rending.
AND THE ENDING??!! I am speechless. Bc if I speak I'm going to just cry.
A million thank-yous for allowing me to ARC review!
After finishing The Illumination I immediately tore into The Abyss. The backstory of Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne is heartbreaking. You are given all of the depravity and destruction that they endured leading up to us meeting them in Book 1.
We then pick up where The Illumination ended. There are new faces, new allies, new and old enemies. Love, loss, betrayals... Asher is creating one of the most magnificent worlds, a type of fantasy universe that I haven't fallen into since reading Robin Hobb or Terry Godkind. The dystopian backdrop is perfect for the high-stakes drama that occurs, making certain scenes even more heart-rending.
AND THE ENDING??!! I am speechless. Bc if I speak I'm going to just cry.
A million thank-yous for allowing me to ARC review!
July 8, 2025
“I am no more important than you or any other, I argued,
trying to push him away from the decision I knew he'd made. My life is not one to be placed on a pedestal. I have made mistakes, taken lives, and done far too many things I regret. I refuse to have you devalue yourself for me or my place in this world.” -Rayne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When you finish book one The Illumination you think you got an idea of how it’s going to go…until you start book two & get thrown into a whirlwind of backstories & history that builds & tells the incredible stories of who & how these characters become to be. Their reasons, their motivations, relationships, friendships, views on reality. Everything.
You get swept in by the powerful message behind what Onyx, Jasper, & Rayne goes through. The way their backstories are explained will pull heartstrings, your heart will rip, your tears will shed, but the feels of being connected to such magnificent characters will heal you in many ways you would never think you needed such healing.
Rayne is my baby through & through. We are alike in many ways. The way this man is portrayed will forever call to me. He was written so beautifully I fell for this character from day one.
Asher has made this world so beautiful & powerful, you end up knowing how strong you really are in reality when you read about what these characters go through & how they fight to survive like most of us.
Forever proud of you Asher. The New World Series is a series I’ll love for the rest of my life & into the next.
trying to push him away from the decision I knew he'd made. My life is not one to be placed on a pedestal. I have made mistakes, taken lives, and done far too many things I regret. I refuse to have you devalue yourself for me or my place in this world.” -Rayne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When you finish book one The Illumination you think you got an idea of how it’s going to go…until you start book two & get thrown into a whirlwind of backstories & history that builds & tells the incredible stories of who & how these characters become to be. Their reasons, their motivations, relationships, friendships, views on reality. Everything.
You get swept in by the powerful message behind what Onyx, Jasper, & Rayne goes through. The way their backstories are explained will pull heartstrings, your heart will rip, your tears will shed, but the feels of being connected to such magnificent characters will heal you in many ways you would never think you needed such healing.
Rayne is my baby through & through. We are alike in many ways. The way this man is portrayed will forever call to me. He was written so beautifully I fell for this character from day one.
Asher has made this world so beautiful & powerful, you end up knowing how strong you really are in reality when you read about what these characters go through & how they fight to survive like most of us.
Forever proud of you Asher. The New World Series is a series I’ll love for the rest of my life & into the next.
July 17, 2025
This book was amazing!! The twists and turns were great, the characters were in depth! I couldn’t put it down. I was messaging with Asher abusing her in some parts because of the side shots that came out of nowhere and KAPOWED!!! Me right in the face!
10/10 recommend this series!!! There’s no regretting it!
10/10 recommend this series!!! There’s no regretting it!
July 8, 2025
Wow wow wow. Where do I begin. As someone who prioritizes sleep over everything I stayed up late with this one!!! This book is a roller coaster and not what I was expecting at all in the best possible way!!!
First of all ONYX MF OAKES!!! This is focused on him and his past as well as his perspective and the other boys Rayne and Jasper. And it’s so much fun getting to know them more.
Now I’ll just say it because I know so many will. I did miss Astrid is this one. However her lack of presence is FOR A REASON!!!
Getting time to know more about Onyx and who he is was amazing and I cannot recommend this book and series enough!! The twists, the turns, the secrets. I will never recover. And when you think you have it all. You don’t!!
First of all ONYX MF OAKES!!! This is focused on him and his past as well as his perspective and the other boys Rayne and Jasper. And it’s so much fun getting to know them more.
Now I’ll just say it because I know so many will. I did miss Astrid is this one. However her lack of presence is FOR A REASON!!!
Getting time to know more about Onyx and who he is was amazing and I cannot recommend this book and series enough!! The twists, the turns, the secrets. I will never recover. And when you think you have it all. You don’t!!
July 9, 2025
⭐ ∞/5
🌶️ 1/5
“The ones you trust today could become your enemies tomorrow.”
At this point, we already know Asher is a magician - plotting and scheming to torture our brain, soul, and heart masterfully (in all the best ways possible, of course). She makes you feel everything, not just watch from a corner of the room.
I’m trying to stay objective, but it’s hard - this book, about my favorite character, melted my heart 🖤
This book is a view from another angle, another piece of the puzzle to experience on the road to the full picture.
There’s so much needed information here that I read and re-read just to make sure I didn’t miss any detail. It felt like a book series on its own.
This book takes things to another level: showing and explaining in more detail, on a deeper emotional layer. Plus, it dives deep into Onyx - his fights, traumas, pain, love, history, importance, reasons… and abilities. I loved every moment of it!
And I have to mention this: the scenes during the “missions”? I was genuinely surprised how is it even possible to write that? To create a moment where five characters move down a hallway, and I, as the reader, feel their every interaction - like the gears of a clock, each one fulfilling its role with precision. You know who is where and why.🤯
In this book we’re also getting to know Rayne better… For me, he’s #2 among the characters. A war machine, but so human. So vulnerable. So lovable.🖤
The final part was hell…!!! 🔥 And a mega cliffhanger. Let’s just say… I didn’t see that coming. Even Asher’s warning didn’t prepare me for this - Trust. No. One! And I would add: not even yourself!
If Book1 broke something in me, then this one showed me the pieces. It affected me more than I ever would have believed - emotionally and psychologically. Somehow, through these characters, something in me shifts. I begin to want to be braver, stronger, bolder - like they are. To fight my own fights, even the ones I thought impossible…
This story is something else entirely. It’s hypnotic. It cuts deep, perfectly true to its title.
I had the incredible honor of reading it before the whole world does, and I’ll be forever grateful to Asher! 🙏🌷
🌶️ 1/5
“The ones you trust today could become your enemies tomorrow.”
At this point, we already know Asher is a magician - plotting and scheming to torture our brain, soul, and heart masterfully (in all the best ways possible, of course). She makes you feel everything, not just watch from a corner of the room.
I’m trying to stay objective, but it’s hard - this book, about my favorite character, melted my heart 🖤
This book is a view from another angle, another piece of the puzzle to experience on the road to the full picture.
There’s so much needed information here that I read and re-read just to make sure I didn’t miss any detail. It felt like a book series on its own.
This book takes things to another level: showing and explaining in more detail, on a deeper emotional layer. Plus, it dives deep into Onyx - his fights, traumas, pain, love, history, importance, reasons… and abilities. I loved every moment of it!
And I have to mention this: the scenes during the “missions”? I was genuinely surprised how is it even possible to write that? To create a moment where five characters move down a hallway, and I, as the reader, feel their every interaction - like the gears of a clock, each one fulfilling its role with precision. You know who is where and why.🤯
In this book we’re also getting to know Rayne better… For me, he’s #2 among the characters. A war machine, but so human. So vulnerable. So lovable.🖤
The final part was hell…!!! 🔥 And a mega cliffhanger. Let’s just say… I didn’t see that coming. Even Asher’s warning didn’t prepare me for this - Trust. No. One! And I would add: not even yourself!
If Book1 broke something in me, then this one showed me the pieces. It affected me more than I ever would have believed - emotionally and psychologically. Somehow, through these characters, something in me shifts. I begin to want to be braver, stronger, bolder - like they are. To fight my own fights, even the ones I thought impossible…
This story is something else entirely. It’s hypnotic. It cuts deep, perfectly true to its title.
I had the incredible honor of reading it before the whole world does, and I’ll be forever grateful to Asher! 🙏🌷
July 29, 2025
This book is .. mind bending. It’s intentional. It’s heartbreaking. It’s beautiful.
The beginning sheds more light onto our favourite men from book one. And it’s devastating. Their time in chains at the hands of the government is downright soul crushing. And the clarity and picture that is painted with words is unreal.
After the prequel chapters, it picks up right where it left off at the end of book one. We get to see the aftermath and the strategic planning that continues to happen. As well as shifting relationships and allegiances. It focuses less on Astrid and much more on our 3 main men.
New characters come into play who are immediately loved (by me) and who have clearly played an integral part in their own factions of the rebellion. As always, because Asher is a master of relationships, the banter is on point among them all. New relationships also form which literally breathed life into my soul and made me feel like maybe there is good in the world. Not to mention one of the best spicy scenes I’ve ever read. 🥵
And then … then comes the implosion. The dynamite. The tears. The lines that can’t be uncrossed.
I can honestly say I have not cried this much while reading a book ever. It felt as though I was on a nonstop rollercoaster except it was all loops where I was getting punched in the heart.
Pack your tissues. Maybe even a rain poncho. Because you’ll need it. Asher has ripped my heart right out, and honestly all I want right now is to pick it up and give it to them so I can be thrust right into book three. Thank you thoroughly for crushing my soul into teeny tiny little pieces, now please may I have some more.
The beginning sheds more light onto our favourite men from book one. And it’s devastating. Their time in chains at the hands of the government is downright soul crushing. And the clarity and picture that is painted with words is unreal.
After the prequel chapters, it picks up right where it left off at the end of book one. We get to see the aftermath and the strategic planning that continues to happen. As well as shifting relationships and allegiances. It focuses less on Astrid and much more on our 3 main men.
New characters come into play who are immediately loved (by me) and who have clearly played an integral part in their own factions of the rebellion. As always, because Asher is a master of relationships, the banter is on point among them all. New relationships also form which literally breathed life into my soul and made me feel like maybe there is good in the world. Not to mention one of the best spicy scenes I’ve ever read. 🥵
And then … then comes the implosion. The dynamite. The tears. The lines that can’t be uncrossed.
I can honestly say I have not cried this much while reading a book ever. It felt as though I was on a nonstop rollercoaster except it was all loops where I was getting punched in the heart.
Pack your tissues. Maybe even a rain poncho. Because you’ll need it. Asher has ripped my heart right out, and honestly all I want right now is to pick it up and give it to them so I can be thrust right into book three. Thank you thoroughly for crushing my soul into teeny tiny little pieces, now please may I have some more.
August 7, 2025
WOW. My order for this book came in yesterday and I DEVOURED it. The complexity of this story keeps building and I'm blown away this is Payne's debut. The way she writes is jaw dropping. Her ability to connect you to ALL of the characters (and not just the main cast) is unlike anything I've experienced. This book was complex, gut-wrenching, and tear-jerking in so many different ways that explaining it isn't possible. When I think I've pieced things together, I haven't, and there hasn't been a book that's made me felt that way in a while. I am itching for the third book in the sereies and will continue to pick up anything Payne puts out. She is now an auto-buy author for me.
July 30, 2025
Firstly, can we just take a moment to admire Asher's mind for creating such brilliant plot twists?
I absolutely adored seeing Onyx's backstory. It was so interesting to see the crew before everything happened and to see how they interacted with each other. But it was also absolutely heartbreaking.
There are so many developments in this book, and I'll have to read it all over again to spot all the easter eggs that led to that ending. And what an ending! I didn't see it coming and was actually shocked! As the author said, you can't trust no one...
Also am I the only one who is completely obsessed with Asher's writing?
You should skip all the other books on your TBR to read this one!
I absolutely adored seeing Onyx's backstory. It was so interesting to see the crew before everything happened and to see how they interacted with each other. But it was also absolutely heartbreaking.
There are so many developments in this book, and I'll have to read it all over again to spot all the easter eggs that led to that ending. And what an ending! I didn't see it coming and was actually shocked! As the author said, you can't trust no one...
Also am I the only one who is completely obsessed with Asher's writing?
You should skip all the other books on your TBR to read this one!
October 19, 2025
I absolutely loved The Illumination, so I went into The Abyss with high hopes. And while I still REALLY enjoyed it, it didn’t quite hit the same emotional high as the first book. This installment leans way harder into the military dystopian side of things, which gives it a grittier, more action-driven tone, but at the cost of some of the emotional balance that made the first book so powerful. It was still THERE, it just wasn't as well-balanced in my opinion.
This time, the focus shifts more toward Onyx, which I liked; it’s his story through and through. My favorite character was Astrid, though, and she's pretty sidelined in this one. For good reason, but still. The first third dives deep into Onyx's past and the trauma that shaped him. While it adds valuable context, it occasionally veers into overkill; it feels like the book lingers in his suffering a little too long. Some of those scenes were genuinely tough to read, and I had to take breaks just to breathe.
One of my biggest frustrations with this series is how some characters seem to know the twists ahead of time but conveniently choose not to say anything. It didn't bother me in the first, but this one leans on that as well. It makes certain reveals feel abrupt rather than earned, like the reader’s being kept in the dark just for the sake of surprise.
That said, I loved the added romance here! The dynamic adds so much emotional texture and gives the story much-needed heart amid all the violence and darkness. The relationships are where this series shines, even when the dialogue (especially Rayne’s banter) feels a bit stilted or scripted.
The ending definitely threw me (I didn’t LOVE the direction it took), but it DOES open the door for some compelling character and relationship growth in the next. It’s still a solid sequel with high-stakes action and emotional grit; I just missed the balance of tenderness and tension that made the first book so special to me.
Thanks so much to IRIS and the author for the gifted copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This time, the focus shifts more toward Onyx, which I liked; it’s his story through and through. My favorite character was Astrid, though, and she's pretty sidelined in this one. For good reason, but still. The first third dives deep into Onyx's past and the trauma that shaped him. While it adds valuable context, it occasionally veers into overkill; it feels like the book lingers in his suffering a little too long. Some of those scenes were genuinely tough to read, and I had to take breaks just to breathe.
One of my biggest frustrations with this series is how some characters seem to know the twists ahead of time but conveniently choose not to say anything. It didn't bother me in the first, but this one leans on that as well. It makes certain reveals feel abrupt rather than earned, like the reader’s being kept in the dark just for the sake of surprise.
That said, I loved the added romance here! The dynamic adds so much emotional texture and gives the story much-needed heart amid all the violence and darkness. The relationships are where this series shines, even when the dialogue (especially Rayne’s banter) feels a bit stilted or scripted.
The ending definitely threw me (I didn’t LOVE the direction it took), but it DOES open the door for some compelling character and relationship growth in the next. It’s still a solid sequel with high-stakes action and emotional grit; I just missed the balance of tenderness and tension that made the first book so special to me.
Thanks so much to IRIS and the author for the gifted copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
October 16, 2025
HONESTLY WHAT THE HECK!!!!
Another 6 star for Asher D Payne WHOOOO!!’
This one made me absolutely sob my eyes out, especially the last 10 chapters it really spun fast and messed with your emotions ( it’s a emotional train that has stops that wreck you)
The way JASPENX BECAME A THING AHHHH MY FAVORITE BOOK BOYFRIEND COUPLE AFTER BRAN AND NIKO (god of fury)
I loved how from the first book that this one went back in time and portrayed more of what caused onyx’s pain and everything before the fall happened for everyone and it was so good and so emotional like my boy has been through so much, him and jasper AND NOW EVERYONE but I’m so glad when JASPENX (jasper and onyx) declared their life with IM IN FUCKING LOVE WITH YOU” and have been for awhile like I CRIED I LOVE THEM SO MUCHHHHH
There was so many moments where I died and there are moments where I was laughing cause RAYNE IS SO HOT AND FUNNY
And the ending the loss, the grief, the BETRAYAL AND SECRETS (the biggest betrayal was the last 2 chapters cause WHAT THE FUCK) I knew some of them were off I sensed it and that gut feeling was so true
I’m so scared it start the 3rd book but the way it left off I need to know what happens and I’m so excited for book 4-5 and fhe novella
I need answers to my questions this is nerve wracking will your favs make it?? I hope my favorite people make it or imma riot 😭😭😭
Another 6 star for Asher D Payne WHOOOO!!’
This one made me absolutely sob my eyes out, especially the last 10 chapters it really spun fast and messed with your emotions ( it’s a emotional train that has stops that wreck you)
The way JASPENX BECAME A THING AHHHH MY FAVORITE BOOK BOYFRIEND COUPLE AFTER BRAN AND NIKO (god of fury)
I loved how from the first book that this one went back in time and portrayed more of what caused onyx’s pain and everything before the fall happened for everyone and it was so good and so emotional like my boy has been through so much, him and jasper AND NOW EVERYONE but I’m so glad when JASPENX (jasper and onyx) declared their life with IM IN FUCKING LOVE WITH YOU” and have been for awhile like I CRIED I LOVE THEM SO MUCHHHHH
There was so many moments where I died and there are moments where I was laughing cause RAYNE IS SO HOT AND FUNNY
And the ending the loss, the grief, the BETRAYAL AND SECRETS (the biggest betrayal was the last 2 chapters cause WHAT THE FUCK) I knew some of them were off I sensed it and that gut feeling was so true
I’m so scared it start the 3rd book but the way it left off I need to know what happens and I’m so excited for book 4-5 and fhe novella
I need answers to my questions this is nerve wracking will your favs make it?? I hope my favorite people make it or imma riot 😭😭😭
October 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book deserves five stars for the shit hot writing alone. The plot twists?? I knew people were hiding things, I felt the betrayal brewing… but Asher orchestrated it all so brilliantly that I didn’t have a clue what was actually coming.
Was there a lot of inner monologue? Yeah. Did I get impatient because I wanted answers and chaos? Also yes. But that’s a me problem — not the book’s.
The action scenes? Chef’s kiss. Every fight played out like a full-on cinematic masterpiece in my head. The found family vibes hit just right — every connection felt real, which made the heartbreaks extra painful (and I loved every second of that emotional damage, thanks).
The smut? Hot. I wanted more, but what we got was quality over quantity 🔥.
This sequel healed the wounds from book one just long enough to rip them right back open. The balance of grief, love, and growth was flawless.
Asher’s writing is incredible — it’s raw, emotional, and layered with empathy. You can feel the lived experience behind the way she writes loss, mental health, and resilience. She’s fast becoming one of my favorite indie authors to emotionally destroy me
This book deserves five stars for the shit hot writing alone. The plot twists?? I knew people were hiding things, I felt the betrayal brewing… but Asher orchestrated it all so brilliantly that I didn’t have a clue what was actually coming.
Was there a lot of inner monologue? Yeah. Did I get impatient because I wanted answers and chaos? Also yes. But that’s a me problem — not the book’s.
The action scenes? Chef’s kiss. Every fight played out like a full-on cinematic masterpiece in my head. The found family vibes hit just right — every connection felt real, which made the heartbreaks extra painful (and I loved every second of that emotional damage, thanks).
The smut? Hot. I wanted more, but what we got was quality over quantity 🔥.
This sequel healed the wounds from book one just long enough to rip them right back open. The balance of grief, love, and growth was flawless.
Asher’s writing is incredible — it’s raw, emotional, and layered with empathy. You can feel the lived experience behind the way she writes loss, mental health, and resilience. She’s fast becoming one of my favorite indie authors to emotionally destroy me
October 12, 2025
Waaiiiit…….WHAT?!
I am at a loss of words….this book did not go where I was expecting it to.
It was sooooo much better!
This book, in its entirety, is a non-stop read of deep and emotional prose, plot-twist you don’t see coming, and love, lies, and betrayals at every single page turn.
The unbelievable amount of depth Asher can bring to her characters and story is truly astonishing.
The Abyss is a poignant continuation delving deep into the stories of the MMC’s. The continuous battles between right vs. wrong, good vs. evil, moral and ethical beliefs and choices are so relevant to our true lives, it's actually chilling.
I am not sure a book or series has ever had me so all over the place emotionally and mentally.
I absolutely cannot wait to continue the story.
If you love a book that can emotionally wreck you, while also being completely relevant and thought-provoking, start reading the New World Series - soon!
I am at a loss of words….this book did not go where I was expecting it to.
It was sooooo much better!
This book, in its entirety, is a non-stop read of deep and emotional prose, plot-twist you don’t see coming, and love, lies, and betrayals at every single page turn.
The unbelievable amount of depth Asher can bring to her characters and story is truly astonishing.
The Abyss is a poignant continuation delving deep into the stories of the MMC’s. The continuous battles between right vs. wrong, good vs. evil, moral and ethical beliefs and choices are so relevant to our true lives, it's actually chilling.
I am not sure a book or series has ever had me so all over the place emotionally and mentally.
I absolutely cannot wait to continue the story.
If you love a book that can emotionally wreck you, while also being completely relevant and thought-provoking, start reading the New World Series - soon!
October 18, 2025
5 ✨ I’m not going to lie to you and tell you this isn’t painful. But it’s beautifully written pain that holds you in a literal chokehold for every page. You’ll naively think you know what’s going to happen, but you don’t. Everything you’ve figured out along the way was crafted to lull you into a sense of false security. This story is raw, real, and devastatingly complex. This is for readers who like to be kept on their toes, with a fast paced, relentless plot that makes it impossible to put this story down. And as a final note, I would like to commend Asher for writing some top tier, appropriately timed, emotional spice. The love stories woven into this series are a beacon amongst the dark.
September 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
Eventually even the strongest break.
I have no words. This book was a rollercoaster. It had moments where I was giggling and kicking my feet, moments where I was in complete shock, others where I was bawling my eyes out, and more where I just could not wrap my head around just how amazing a plot twist was.
This book ripped my heart out, stomped on it, and ran me over with a bus, and I thanked it.
This book is truly amazing. The plot has me in a chokehold and keeps me wanting more. The characters are all amazing and so complex. I honestly never know who is lying or telling the truth, and honestly, I don't care as long as I get more of them. (That's a lie. I care so much, I NEED to know what is happening, like I need air. I do, however, still need more of them. The plot twists in this book truly had my jaw on the floor. Every time I thought I had an idea of what was happening, I soon realized I had NO idea what was happening, and honestly, I am so okay with that because the plot twists are genuinely amazing. I cannot wait for the next book. Asher D Payne is a phenomenal author who truly knows how to hook their reader and take them on a ride they truly cannot even begin to imagine.
✵ Touch Her and ☠️
👁️Found Family
✵ Enemies to Lovers
👁️Forced Proximity
✵Secrets
👁️Slow Burn
✵Dystopian
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review. All opinions are my own.
Eventually even the strongest break.
I have no words. This book was a rollercoaster. It had moments where I was giggling and kicking my feet, moments where I was in complete shock, others where I was bawling my eyes out, and more where I just could not wrap my head around just how amazing a plot twist was.
This book ripped my heart out, stomped on it, and ran me over with a bus, and I thanked it.
This book is truly amazing. The plot has me in a chokehold and keeps me wanting more. The characters are all amazing and so complex. I honestly never know who is lying or telling the truth, and honestly, I don't care as long as I get more of them. (That's a lie. I care so much, I NEED to know what is happening, like I need air. I do, however, still need more of them. The plot twists in this book truly had my jaw on the floor. Every time I thought I had an idea of what was happening, I soon realized I had NO idea what was happening, and honestly, I am so okay with that because the plot twists are genuinely amazing. I cannot wait for the next book. Asher D Payne is a phenomenal author who truly knows how to hook their reader and take them on a ride they truly cannot even begin to imagine.
✵ Touch Her and ☠️
👁️Found Family
✵ Enemies to Lovers
👁️Forced Proximity
✵Secrets
👁️Slow Burn
✵Dystopian
January 2, 2026
Oh my goooosh I absolutely loved and devoured this book. Book hangover for sure!! But starting book 3 right now. Intrigued from first page to the very last with crazy twists!!! Anyone else have anxiety reading but in like, a good way? Excited for book 3!!
October 20, 2025
Such a good read. Ends on a cliffhanger so I’m ready for book 3!
September 7, 2025
"Hey, kiddo," I whispered. "I know it's been a while, and honestly, I don't even know where to start
Im wrecked. That is all. I cannot even put into words how I feel. This is a must read series for sure.
Im wrecked. That is all. I cannot even put into words how I feel. This is a must read series for sure.
November 27, 2025
4 stars ⭐️
Might have Spoilers for book 1, The Illumination!
The Abyss shifts the focus from Astrid to Onyx.
The Illumination lit the spark of revolution, but The Abyss dives into its cost: the guilt, the trauma and the ghosts that haunt those who’ve survived too long on the wrong side of power, before opening their eyes.
PLOT:
This book unfolds in 3 phases, corresponding to Onyx’s evolution.
The Precursor - shows Onyx as the government’s most trusted soldier, unknowingly perpetuating the regime’s manipulation.
The Traitor - brings the downfall, the imprisonment, betrayal and claustrophobic horror in the realisation of the government’s doings.
The Rebel - follows Onyx’s emergence into the Wilds, where he becomes a symbol of resistance, as well as a man being hunted by the government.
Because of this structure, the pacing is slower than in The Illumination. I struggled to get into it in the beginning, but I definitely felt the weight of the consequences, the weight of Onyx’s past, Jasper’s past, and Rayne’s past.
CHARACTERS:
Onyx embodies the guilt of a soldier who served the wrong masters. Knowing his past, his arc is now both devastating and cathartic. Asher built Onyx as the perfect contrast personality: he is disciplined yet emotionally fractured, he is capable of immense violence yet desperate for redemption. His trauma and his vulnerability feel lived in.
The found family continues with Onyx and Astrid, but also Jasper, Rayne and Rayne’s crew. Each of them carries their own scars and together they form the rebellion’s heart. All of this is always laced with distrust and loyalty or disloyalty.
EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPTH:
I need to talk about this topic specifically, because this is where The Abyss shines. This book is a portrait of a man breaking and rebuilding. It’s a book of strength redefined by endurance. The depiction of trauma, especially Onyx’s but also Jasper’s and Rayne’s, is handled with honesty and rawness.
The Abyss is a confrontation of guilt. It’s painful, it’s heavy, but it’s also deeply empathetic.
Overall, this is a quieter addition to the series, bringing a more emotional tone, but it also brings a great plot twist. I knew something was there and I was right in a lot of my thoughts, but I didn’t fully predict the twist, so I’m happy that I was somewhat blindsided with some of what happens at the end.
The characters grow more layered with each passing page and I’m SO excited to see what happens next!!
Might have Spoilers for book 1, The Illumination!
The Abyss shifts the focus from Astrid to Onyx.
The Illumination lit the spark of revolution, but The Abyss dives into its cost: the guilt, the trauma and the ghosts that haunt those who’ve survived too long on the wrong side of power, before opening their eyes.
PLOT:
This book unfolds in 3 phases, corresponding to Onyx’s evolution.
The Precursor - shows Onyx as the government’s most trusted soldier, unknowingly perpetuating the regime’s manipulation.
The Traitor - brings the downfall, the imprisonment, betrayal and claustrophobic horror in the realisation of the government’s doings.
The Rebel - follows Onyx’s emergence into the Wilds, where he becomes a symbol of resistance, as well as a man being hunted by the government.
Because of this structure, the pacing is slower than in The Illumination. I struggled to get into it in the beginning, but I definitely felt the weight of the consequences, the weight of Onyx’s past, Jasper’s past, and Rayne’s past.
CHARACTERS:
Onyx embodies the guilt of a soldier who served the wrong masters. Knowing his past, his arc is now both devastating and cathartic. Asher built Onyx as the perfect contrast personality: he is disciplined yet emotionally fractured, he is capable of immense violence yet desperate for redemption. His trauma and his vulnerability feel lived in.
The found family continues with Onyx and Astrid, but also Jasper, Rayne and Rayne’s crew. Each of them carries their own scars and together they form the rebellion’s heart. All of this is always laced with distrust and loyalty or disloyalty.
EMOTIONAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPTH:
I need to talk about this topic specifically, because this is where The Abyss shines. This book is a portrait of a man breaking and rebuilding. It’s a book of strength redefined by endurance. The depiction of trauma, especially Onyx’s but also Jasper’s and Rayne’s, is handled with honesty and rawness.
The Abyss is a confrontation of guilt. It’s painful, it’s heavy, but it’s also deeply empathetic.
Overall, this is a quieter addition to the series, bringing a more emotional tone, but it also brings a great plot twist. I knew something was there and I was right in a lot of my thoughts, but I didn’t fully predict the twist, so I’m happy that I was somewhat blindsided with some of what happens at the end.
The characters grow more layered with each passing page and I’m SO excited to see what happens next!!
October 11, 2025
I typically am not someone who likes prequels within a series, but oh boy, in this case I am all for it. In The Illumination we got to know Onyx and a good amount about his past. The first third of the The Abyss really dives into Onyx, you get to know him in a more intimate way through his trauma. His time working for the government and slowly uncovering those who were corrupt lays out where his lack of trust for others comes from.
Despite knowing who one traitor was the whole time, its still gut renetching to find out from Onyx's perspective. His role as captain was to guide his team but he never expected one to turn on him. As chapter 16 demonstrates, he will do anything he can to protect the one's he loves. The bond between Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne knows no bounds.
I didn't really notice until this book how descriptive the fight scenes are. Their imagery is super strong and immersive.
Part 3 was so intense and I was locked in while reading it. One thing was happening after another and I couldn't predict what was coming next.
CHAPTER 52!!! THAT'S ALL IM GOING TO SAY, MY MIND LITTERALLY EXPLODED!
***spoiler time***
Knowing about Vix's execution didn't lessen the blow. You get to see how they fit together, and Onyx fell in love for the first time. When he was tricked into killing her, you get to feel the raw and torterous emotions he went through after releasing what he had truly done.
I knew Jasper's love confession was coming, but my goodness. I am a sucker a yelling love confession, just putting it all out there. *swoons*
***spoilers***
Despite knowing who one traitor was the whole time, its still gut renetching to find out from Onyx's perspective. His role as captain was to guide his team but he never expected one to turn on him. As chapter 16 demonstrates, he will do anything he can to protect the one's he loves. The bond between Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne knows no bounds.
I didn't really notice until this book how descriptive the fight scenes are. Their imagery is super strong and immersive.
Part 3 was so intense and I was locked in while reading it. One thing was happening after another and I couldn't predict what was coming next.
CHAPTER 52!!! THAT'S ALL IM GOING TO SAY, MY MIND LITTERALLY EXPLODED!
***spoiler time***
Knowing about Vix's execution didn't lessen the blow. You get to see how they fit together, and Onyx fell in love for the first time. When he was tricked into killing her, you get to feel the raw and torterous emotions he went through after releasing what he had truly done.
I knew Jasper's love confession was coming, but my goodness. I am a sucker a yelling love confession, just putting it all out there. *swoons*
***spoilers***
October 17, 2025
4⭐️ ┇ Bookstagram ┇ BookTok
Took me a little to get into this, but I did enjoy Onyx’s back story! Was heartbreaking to see what he & his men went through. Especially Onyx.
Was very curious as to why we were not getting Astrid’s POV. Actually, Astrid felt more of a side character in this one. But it made sense in the end.
Speaking of the ending… that was intense! The action and the twists! I did NOT see that coming! That last sentence… what!
Looking forward to continuing the series!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Book 2 / Dark Dystopian Series
➳❥ Touch her/him & die
➳❥ Supernatural Abilities
➳❥ Found Family
➳❥ Dark Secrets
➳❥ Betrayal
➳❥ Twists
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼
“𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝚔𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚛, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝'𝚜 𝚎𝚡𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝙸'𝚍 𝚍𝚘𝚗𝚎.”“
𝙰𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝, 𝙸 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚘 𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚗 𝚞𝚙 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝚘𝚛 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚜𝚘 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚢. 𝙱𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚙𝚊𝚒𝚗, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍𝚗'𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚐𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗.”
“𝚆𝚎 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚟𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚜; 𝚠𝚎 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚟𝚒𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚜. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛, 𝚠𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚋𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑.”
“𝙷𝚎𝚛𝚎'𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐. 𝙸 𝚌𝚊𝚖𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚊 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚢𝚖𝚙𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚋𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢, 𝚜𝚘 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚘𝚋 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢, 𝚗𝚘𝚛 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝙸 𝚜𝚒𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎.”
“𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 𝚊𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝙸'𝚕𝚕 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐.”
Took me a little to get into this, but I did enjoy Onyx’s back story! Was heartbreaking to see what he & his men went through. Especially Onyx.
Was very curious as to why we were not getting Astrid’s POV. Actually, Astrid felt more of a side character in this one. But it made sense in the end.
Speaking of the ending… that was intense! The action and the twists! I did NOT see that coming! That last sentence… what!
Looking forward to continuing the series!
‧₊˚✧𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽✧˚₊‧
➳❥ Book 2 / Dark Dystopian Series
➳❥ Touch her/him & die
➳❥ Supernatural Abilities
➳❥ Found Family
➳❥ Dark Secrets
➳❥ Betrayal
➳❥ Twists
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝓕𝓪𝓿 𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼
“𝚃𝚑𝚎𝚢 𝚠𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚍 𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚖𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜 𝚔𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚎𝚛, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝'𝚜 𝚎𝚡𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝙸'𝚍 𝚍𝚘𝚗𝚎.”“
𝙰𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚘𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝, 𝙸 𝚙𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚍 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚘 𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚗 𝚞𝚙 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝚘𝚛 𝚏𝚊𝚕𝚕 𝚒𝚗 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚜𝚘 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚢. 𝙱𝚎𝚌𝚊𝚞𝚜𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚕𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚎𝚊𝚗𝚝 𝚙𝚊𝚒𝚗, 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚌𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍𝚗'𝚝 𝚋𝚎𝚊𝚛 𝚝𝚘 𝚐𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚛𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗.”
“𝚆𝚎 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚓𝚞𝚜𝚝 𝚟𝚒𝚌𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚜; 𝚠𝚎 𝚠𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚟𝚒𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚜. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘𝚐𝚎𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛, 𝚠𝚎 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚏𝚒𝚗𝚍 𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚋𝚊𝚌𝚔 𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝. 𝙰𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚊𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚋𝚎 𝚎𝚗𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑.”
“𝙷𝚎𝚛𝚎'𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐. 𝙸 𝚌𝚊𝚖𝚎 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚠𝚒𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚊 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚢𝚖𝚙𝚊𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚝𝚒𝚌 𝚋𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚒𝚗 𝚖𝚢 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢, 𝚜𝚘 𝙸 𝚍𝚘𝚗'𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚝 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚜𝚘𝚋 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢, 𝚗𝚘𝚛 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝙸 𝚜𝚒𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚍 𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝙸 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚘𝚏 𝚕𝚎𝚝𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚕𝚒𝚟𝚎.”
“𝚃𝚑𝚎 𝚗𝚎𝚡𝚝 𝚝𝚒𝚖𝚎 𝙸 𝚠𝚊𝚝𝚌𝚑 𝚊𝚗𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚊𝚕𝚎 𝚜𝚙𝚒𝚝 𝚘𝚗 𝚢𝚘𝚞, 𝙸'𝚕𝚕 𝚍𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚝𝚎 𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐.”
October 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5) - 𝘿𝙖𝙧𝙠, 𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡, 𝙛𝙧𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙨𝙤 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙖𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚.
Okay listen. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙗𝙮𝙨𝙨 and I went through it.
Like... I showed up ready for more chaos after 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 (Book 1l) and this book said: "𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙡, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙮."
This one’s slower, heavier, and way more backstory trauma unpacking than I expected 😭🫠
Half the time I felt like I was sitting in a group session with Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne as they relived their worst memories — and the other half, I was gasping because Asher, damn, she knows exactly how to twist the knife just when you start to breathe again.
Did I love it as instantly as book one? No.
Did it still wreck me 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺? 𝘼𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮.
I fought this book, but I lost.
Once I settled into the slower rhythm, I started appreciating what it was actually doing — expanding the world, digging deep into the past, and showing how every scar still bleeds into the present. It’s raw, emotional, confusing in that "𝘐-𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵-𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵-𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦" kind of way, and beautifully written.
The pacing? A little uneven.
The emotional damage? Immaculate.
The payoff? Worth every minute.
I closed the last page muttering, "𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦," while simultaneously adding Book 3 to my TBR because apparently I like pain now 😖
So yeah — a solid 4⭐️ read. Not the adrenaline rush of Book 1, but a deep dive into everything that made me care in the first place.
Okay listen. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙗𝙮𝙨𝙨 and I went through it.
Like... I showed up ready for more chaos after 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 (Book 1l) and this book said: "𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙡, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙮."
This one’s slower, heavier, and way more backstory trauma unpacking than I expected 😭🫠
Half the time I felt like I was sitting in a group session with Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne as they relived their worst memories — and the other half, I was gasping because Asher, damn, she knows exactly how to twist the knife just when you start to breathe again.
Did I love it as instantly as book one? No.
Did it still wreck me 𝘦𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺? 𝘼𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮.
I fought this book, but I lost.
Once I settled into the slower rhythm, I started appreciating what it was actually doing — expanding the world, digging deep into the past, and showing how every scar still bleeds into the present. It’s raw, emotional, confusing in that "𝘐-𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵-𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘴𝘵-𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦" kind of way, and beautifully written.
The pacing? A little uneven.
The emotional damage? Immaculate.
The payoff? Worth every minute.
I closed the last page muttering, "𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦," while simultaneously adding Book 3 to my TBR because apparently I like pain now 😖
So yeah — a solid 4⭐️ read. Not the adrenaline rush of Book 1, but a deep dive into everything that made me care in the first place.
October 11, 2025
Can we take a moment to appreciate Asher’s genius for those plot twists? I loved diving into Onyx’s backstory. Getting to know the crew before everything went down was both fascinating and gut-wrenching. This book is packed with surprises, and I’m definitely going to have to read it again to uncover all those hidden clues leading up to that unexpected ending! Seriously, I was stunned. Remember: trust no one!
The story flips between the past and the present, picking up right where book one left off. I loved seeing new allies and old friends reunite to challenge the president again. The character dynamics and the family they build together made the battles super intense, it felt like anything could happen. And that final twist? I’m still in shock!
I was hooked from the first page. The emotional ride was a whirlwind, from tears to laughter and everything in between. I’m so eager for book three to see where this all leads! The Abyss dives deep into Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne, who are the heart of the Rebellion. Asher has a gift for pulling you into the story and making you feel every moment as if you’re right there with them.
The story flips between the past and the present, picking up right where book one left off. I loved seeing new allies and old friends reunite to challenge the president again. The character dynamics and the family they build together made the battles super intense, it felt like anything could happen. And that final twist? I’m still in shock!
I was hooked from the first page. The emotional ride was a whirlwind, from tears to laughter and everything in between. I’m so eager for book three to see where this all leads! The Abyss dives deep into Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne, who are the heart of the Rebellion. Asher has a gift for pulling you into the story and making you feel every moment as if you’re right there with them.
September 27, 2025
Oh. My. God. That reveal at the end had me reeling, be prepared to be dropped off a cliff for this one.
I thought going into this I would be prepared for hearing Onyx’s story from before the fall but reading it had me even more emotionally shattered than I could have imagined and now knowing some of the other characters stories as well I feel for them just as much. This book explores both before the fall and then jumps right back into the ending of book 1 in “present time” that start with new unsuspecting allies and old friends reuniting to try to take down the president again.
The continued development of the relationships between characters and their family they are forming together made all of the battles hard to read in fear of loosing anyone and that last twist of a knife at the end even more heartbreaking. My jaw is still on the floor I couldn’t believe it. I was on the edge of my seat the whole second half of this book and I literally cannot wait to read the next one to see how this all shakes out! Overall this book was even better than the first, my rating is 4.8/5!
Thank you to the author and Iris influencer society for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
I thought going into this I would be prepared for hearing Onyx’s story from before the fall but reading it had me even more emotionally shattered than I could have imagined and now knowing some of the other characters stories as well I feel for them just as much. This book explores both before the fall and then jumps right back into the ending of book 1 in “present time” that start with new unsuspecting allies and old friends reuniting to try to take down the president again.
The continued development of the relationships between characters and their family they are forming together made all of the battles hard to read in fear of loosing anyone and that last twist of a knife at the end even more heartbreaking. My jaw is still on the floor I couldn’t believe it. I was on the edge of my seat the whole second half of this book and I literally cannot wait to read the next one to see how this all shakes out! Overall this book was even better than the first, my rating is 4.8/5!
Thank you to the author and Iris influencer society for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
October 22, 2025
This book absolutely destroyed me.
The beginning broke my heart seeing Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne during their time with the government before the fall was gutting. It’s raw and makes you understand just how much they’ve lost.
Then it jumps right back into the chaos from book one, and everything just spirals. The aftermath, the shifting alliances you can feel the tension in every scene. I missed Astrid's pov so much this time around, but when you realize why... yeah, that hit hard. When Asher said “unreliable narrators,” they weren’t exaggerating. Don’t trust anyoneeeeeee
oh my god, the relationships are everything in this book. The banter is top notch And that couch scene? Iykyk
And then the ending. The heartbreak every line feels like a punch, every choice cuts deeper. Enemies become lovers, lovers become enemies, and by the time it’s over, you’re just sitting there in silence.
Asher you’ve done it again. My heart is in pieces. 😭
The beginning broke my heart seeing Onyx, Jasper, and Rayne during their time with the government before the fall was gutting. It’s raw and makes you understand just how much they’ve lost.
Then it jumps right back into the chaos from book one, and everything just spirals. The aftermath, the shifting alliances you can feel the tension in every scene. I missed Astrid's pov so much this time around, but when you realize why... yeah, that hit hard. When Asher said “unreliable narrators,” they weren’t exaggerating. Don’t trust anyoneeeeeee
oh my god, the relationships are everything in this book. The banter is top notch And that couch scene? Iykyk
And then the ending. The heartbreak every line feels like a punch, every choice cuts deeper. Enemies become lovers, lovers become enemies, and by the time it’s over, you’re just sitting there in silence.
Asher you’ve done it again. My heart is in pieces. 😭
October 23, 2025
⭐️ 4.5 / 5 (rounded up)
Okay… I had to take a serious break after finishing book one because I could not stop crying. 😭 I thought I’d recovered enough to survive The Abyss - but wow, was I wrong. I’ve come to the conclusion that Asher D. Payne thrives on seeing her readers in emotional distress because WHAT was that?! 😭💔
Let’s talk about Onyx Oakes, because that man has my entire heart. He has been through so much, and all I want is for him to finally be happy… but something tells me I’m in for even more heartbreak with the rest of this series. 😩
This book took me on a full emotional roller coaster - one minute I’m sobbing, the next I’m giggling and kicking my feet, then laughing, then crying again. The emotional whiplash is real.
It did take me a little longer to finish than the first book, but I still loved every second of it. Now… wish me luck as I dive into book three. I’m definitely not ready, but here we go! 🖤📖
Okay… I had to take a serious break after finishing book one because I could not stop crying. 😭 I thought I’d recovered enough to survive The Abyss - but wow, was I wrong. I’ve come to the conclusion that Asher D. Payne thrives on seeing her readers in emotional distress because WHAT was that?! 😭💔
Let’s talk about Onyx Oakes, because that man has my entire heart. He has been through so much, and all I want is for him to finally be happy… but something tells me I’m in for even more heartbreak with the rest of this series. 😩
This book took me on a full emotional roller coaster - one minute I’m sobbing, the next I’m giggling and kicking my feet, then laughing, then crying again. The emotional whiplash is real.
It did take me a little longer to finish than the first book, but I still loved every second of it. Now… wish me luck as I dive into book three. I’m definitely not ready, but here we go! 🖤📖
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