Between Worlds

by Ashley MacKinnon

Pulled through a rift of light, Liora awakens in a new magical world ruled by elemental magic.

Caught between warring factions and forces older than memory, she must learn to trust the pulse of a world that feels her every heartbeat. As danger closes in, Liora discovers that her bond to the world runs deeper than she ever imagined and the key to saving it may lie within herself.

For fans of lush worldbuilding, found family, and slow-burn tension, Between Worlds is the first book in The Mistwood Duology, where destiny begins and the veil starts to break.

193 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 4, 2026

Reviews

[A.M. Walker · Rating 4 out of 5]

For some reason, this novel immediately reminded me of the poem “The Egg,” and I also kept catching Bridge to Terabithia vibes along the way. Maybe that is just me, but there was something about the emotional imagination, the sense of wonder, and the way the story blends deeper meaning with character-driven moments that created a similar feeling. The author does a great job of throwing the reader directly into the world from the very beginning, allowing the pacing to feel fast, immersive, and engaging without a long buildup.

I especially enjoyed how the story balanced action-packed movement with moments of almost psychedelic, thought-provoking reflection that encouraged the reader to think a little more deeply about what was happening beneath the surface. Those philosophical undertones gave the novel a unique tone that stood out from other books in the genre while still keeping the momentum strong. Overall, this was an engaging and imaginative read that I am glad I picked up and one that left a lasting impression.

[Emily Astillberry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between Worlds jumps right into the action, the pace and immediacy drawing you in in an instant. Short chapters leave you saying, just one more chapter, right from the start. The beauty and vitality of the world building leaves you breathless.

Liora is pulled from the only reality she has ever known and thrust into a world that is very different from Earth. A world that is alive, teeming with life, growth and impossible creatures. Somehow, she has a deep link to this world and a chance to be something special, bridging the crumbling link with Earth and making up for what she sees as her failings in her first chance at life.
She recognises the pulse of the land, has an affinity with the people, the creatures, the very planet and is set upon a path filled with challenges and trials in order to prove that she has what it takes to restore balance.

The characters in the story sometimes take a back seat to the descriptions of the flora, the fauna, the very vitality and essence of the world that Liora finds herself in, and yet she builds unshakable bonds with the subtle nature of the humans and otherworldly creatures alike.

An entertaining, fast paced romp through a stunning fantasy world.

[Jennifer Speidel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liora’s epic journey begins and ends with her and an overly abundant description of her surroundings for every scene in between. Gaining confidence with each trial and the trust she is building with those accompanying her, its leaves the reader rooting for her to be the one to save both worlds. Can she find the confidence that she needs? You’ll have to read the book.

[Tangled Titles · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was gifted as an EARC for an honest review

Between worlds definitely has an unique take on different realms and the characters that go with it. I also enjoyed how the world buiding wasn't over complicated and how it had a bit of suspence that kept me reading.

Would recommend to readers that enjoy stories with alternate worlds, mystery and intriguing storylines.

[Sarena Kae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the physical depth of the world and how Ashley was able to capture the response of the world!!

[M.C. Terriche · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book transports you to a magical realm and follows the story of Liora Hale, a 32 year old who learns to harness her powers and help bring balance between two worlds. The immersive descriptions and imagery are excellent, and the dialogue between characters is thoroughly engaging and authentic.

I highly recommend if you are a fan of romantasy and immersive worlds, and look forward to future works by this author!

[Shannon Lorimer Author · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first ARC read of the year and wow! The world building in this book is incredible and it's written beautifully. Loved the characters too. My one critique is it dragged on a little in my personal opinion. But I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I absolutely recommend it.

[siyaa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Between Worlds was a vivid and compelling read. I loved reading about Liora's story and how she managed to adapt and protect the world she was thrown into. She was a super likeable character, and I enjoyed learning about her. I also liked reading about her and Kaelen's bond and the depth it had. The book also started super quickly which I appreciated. Thank you so much Ashley for the ARC!

[K. D. Capener · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first thing you'll notice as you step into Between Worlds is MacKinnon's lyrical style of writing. The setting was beautifully described with details that made my senses come alive. I felt as if I was really experiencing everything as Liora was experiencing it. The world she has created for the story is majestic, although rife with dangers. As Liora must learn to use her senses and her intuition to navigate her new world, we watch as she grows in confidence and builds loyalty and gains respect from those she travels with. Kaelen was the type of person everyone needs by their side to encourage, guide, and partner with. If you like fantasy with beautiful world-building, give this book a try!

[Aimee Nerdy Auntie · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being pulled into another world, Liora must fight to protect a place that slowly begins to feel like home. Between Worlds delivers adventure, immersive world-building, and a cast of compelling characters that kept me turning the pages. The writing is vivid and descriptive—I truly felt transported right alongside Liora. And while the fantasy elements shine, the developing bond between Liora and Kaelen adds a powerful emotional layer to the story. Now, it is a long book and does get a little bogged down in the middle. But, overall this was a solid and engaging fantasy read that I enjoyed!

[Katie Vieira · Rating 5 out of 5]

The author weaves a new world with beautiful language and imagery. Liora’s character is relatable with her tinge of sass and strong personality. I was transported to a new world seamlessly as I read. If you enjoy a story of bravery and instinct filled with magical creatures and unknown worlds- this is the perfect story for you!