What do you think?
Rate this book
Aether and Bone
Not yet published
Expected 8 Sep 26Aether and Bone is a spicy adult romantasy perfect for fans of When The Moon Hatched and a Fate Forged in Fire.
"They executed my father. Now they want to see me burn on the sky pyre. But I will ally with the monster of The Below and brave the beasts above before I let them condemn me."
Oliviana Lux’s world is ruled by dangerous dragons, banishing humanity to the cavern cities below. But the sharp-tongued Master Tinkerer and daughter of a traitor carries a dangerous secret: she can wield the forbidden magic her father was executed for. Wanting to escape her father’s legacy, she hides her gift. But when a near-fatal brush with a dragon awakens a magical pull within her, she wonders if the legends her father secretly whispered to her of dragon riders were true.
But hiding her magic isn’t enough to keep her safe when she is forced into a treacherous assignment by the corrupt council. Oliviana soon discovers she is being set up to take the blame for the fading magic that fuels their cities. In a desperate quest to restore the magic and clear her name, she has no choice but to ally herself with Caius Amarala—the abrasive captain of the guard and the man responsible for her father’s execution—to reach the legendary hatching grounds in the hope that bonding with a dragon of their own will allow their people to return to the surface.
Oliviana and Caius find their fates are more entangled than either of them could have imagined. Despite doing everything in her power not to fall for him, Oliviana is inexplicably drawn to the darkness in Caius. And as they grow closer, she starts to realize that her world is not the only thing that needs saving, and that Caius is not the man he says he is.
"They executed my father. Now they want to see me burn on the sky pyre. But I will ally with the monster of The Below and brave the beasts above before I let them condemn me."
Oliviana Lux’s world is ruled by dangerous dragons, banishing humanity to the cavern cities below. But the sharp-tongued Master Tinkerer and daughter of a traitor carries a dangerous secret: she can wield the forbidden magic her father was executed for. Wanting to escape her father’s legacy, she hides her gift. But when a near-fatal brush with a dragon awakens a magical pull within her, she wonders if the legends her father secretly whispered to her of dragon riders were true.
But hiding her magic isn’t enough to keep her safe when she is forced into a treacherous assignment by the corrupt council. Oliviana soon discovers she is being set up to take the blame for the fading magic that fuels their cities. In a desperate quest to restore the magic and clear her name, she has no choice but to ally herself with Caius Amarala—the abrasive captain of the guard and the man responsible for her father’s execution—to reach the legendary hatching grounds in the hope that bonding with a dragon of their own will allow their people to return to the surface.
Oliviana and Caius find their fates are more entangled than either of them could have imagined. Despite doing everything in her power not to fall for him, Oliviana is inexplicably drawn to the darkness in Caius. And as they grow closer, she starts to realize that her world is not the only thing that needs saving, and that Caius is not the man he says he is.
384 pages
Expected publication September 8, 2026
334 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amber Freaking Toro, you did it again. I loved everything about this story, from start to finish. Amber has a great way of taking a concept and turning it into something entirely unique, and that is exactly what you get with Aether and Bone.
Amber's world building is phenomenal. Reading Aether and Bone felt like watching a movie. Every location, the history and lore, and each scene was so carefully crafted that I felt like I was walking alongside the characters on their journey. Amber does a great job of revealing information as the story unfolds, which makes it easy to process and hold on to the important pieces. The history and lore revealed throughout the story was executed with just the right blend of storytelling and information sharing, told through dialogue or reflection from the main character. Each section of the world that the characters traveled through felt unique and magical, which is exactly what I want from a fantasy novel.
I also really appreciated the thought Amber put into crafting the beasts of this realm. The history with the dragons and dragon riders was absolutely fascinating, and I loved that each of the dragons encountered had bits of personality and hints to their past. All of the other beasts that the main cast encountered were also WILD in the best way. The descriptions were so vivid, and I loved imagining what each of them looked like.
And speaking of descriptions—can we talk about THE FOOD for a minute?! The way Amber writes is so completely immersive that even the food descriptions had my full attention. Amber pays attention to all the senses—sight, taste, smell, sound, touch—and considering the role food plays in building a relationship between two of the characters, this attention to detail gave an additional layer to the story. It might seem like a minor detail, but this truly speaks to Amber's ability to turn a story into a complete experience.
I really fell in love with the main characters, too. There was SUCH a tense history between the FMC and MMC, which kept me turning pages well into the early hours of the morning. Not only was the romantic tension absolutely addicting, but the relationships between the main cast was also incredibly engaging. There's an element of found family that the main cast develops, and I loved that each of the characters had such different dynamics with the rest of the cast. The best friends, the siblings, the ex-friends, the romantic interests—every time the characters interacted, I just kept finding myself wanting to see what they would do next. They all had such different personality types, and I loved seeing them work together as much as I loved watching them butt heads.
And the romance. My gosh. I love a good slow burn, and Amber does this so well. There is so much tension between the FMC and MMC, and they have a VERY complicated past to work through. Still, the way they're drawn to each other, you can FEEL it in your chest. The anticipation and tension built up throughout the story is paced so well, with stolen moments that keep pulling them closer together. When I tell you I was HOOKED. The moment they finally come together was all the more rewarding because of the buildup.
Long story short, I loved every second of this book. If you like fantasy, strong female characters, a delicious slow burn romance, unique world building, lore, and DRAGONS, you need to check this out.
Amber's world building is phenomenal. Reading Aether and Bone felt like watching a movie. Every location, the history and lore, and each scene was so carefully crafted that I felt like I was walking alongside the characters on their journey. Amber does a great job of revealing information as the story unfolds, which makes it easy to process and hold on to the important pieces. The history and lore revealed throughout the story was executed with just the right blend of storytelling and information sharing, told through dialogue or reflection from the main character. Each section of the world that the characters traveled through felt unique and magical, which is exactly what I want from a fantasy novel.
I also really appreciated the thought Amber put into crafting the beasts of this realm. The history with the dragons and dragon riders was absolutely fascinating, and I loved that each of the dragons encountered had bits of personality and hints to their past. All of the other beasts that the main cast encountered were also WILD in the best way. The descriptions were so vivid, and I loved imagining what each of them looked like.
And speaking of descriptions—can we talk about THE FOOD for a minute?! The way Amber writes is so completely immersive that even the food descriptions had my full attention. Amber pays attention to all the senses—sight, taste, smell, sound, touch—and considering the role food plays in building a relationship between two of the characters, this attention to detail gave an additional layer to the story. It might seem like a minor detail, but this truly speaks to Amber's ability to turn a story into a complete experience.
I really fell in love with the main characters, too. There was SUCH a tense history between the FMC and MMC, which kept me turning pages well into the early hours of the morning. Not only was the romantic tension absolutely addicting, but the relationships between the main cast was also incredibly engaging. There's an element of found family that the main cast develops, and I loved that each of the characters had such different dynamics with the rest of the cast. The best friends, the siblings, the ex-friends, the romantic interests—every time the characters interacted, I just kept finding myself wanting to see what they would do next. They all had such different personality types, and I loved seeing them work together as much as I loved watching them butt heads.
And the romance. My gosh. I love a good slow burn, and Amber does this so well. There is so much tension between the FMC and MMC, and they have a VERY complicated past to work through. Still, the way they're drawn to each other, you can FEEL it in your chest. The anticipation and tension built up throughout the story is paced so well, with stolen moments that keep pulling them closer together. When I tell you I was HOOKED. The moment they finally come together was all the more rewarding because of the buildup.
Long story short, I loved every second of this book. If you like fantasy, strong female characters, a delicious slow burn romance, unique world building, lore, and DRAGONS, you need to check this out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aether and Bone by Amber Toro is a compelling entry into the romantic fantasy genre, blending high-stakes magic with an emotionally charged, character-driven narrative. If you enjoy stories where the world-building is as intricate as the central romance, this book delivers a rich atmosphere of ancient powers and simmering tension.
The Premise
The story follows a classic fantasy setup—clashing elements and high stakes—but elevates it through the chemistry between the leads. Set against a backdrop of crumbling kingdoms and soaring dragons (as hinted by the striking cover art), the "Aether" and "Bone" of the title represent the fundamental, often conflicting forces that the characters must master.
What Makes It Stand Out
The Romantic Tension: Toro excels at the "slow burn." The connection between the two main characters feels earned, rooted in shared trauma and mutual respect rather than just instant attraction.
Atmospheric World-Building: The author paints a vivid picture of a world where, if you use magic, you must pay a cost. The descriptions of the landscape and the "bone" magic elements are particularly dark and evocative.
Strong Protagonists: The female lead is a "chosen one", a survivor with agency, and is making difficult choices that have real consequences for the people around her.
The Vibe
If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas or Rebecca Yarros, this will likely hit the sweet spot for you. It carries that same blend of "fated" feeling romance, dangerous political intrigue, and a touch of the paranormal that keeps you up late.
Final Verdict
Aether and Bone is a solid pick for anyone looking for a "mood read" that balances action with deep emotional stakes. It’s perfect for readers who want to get lost in a new world where the stakes are life-and-death, but the heart of the story remains the bond between the characters.
Rating Recommendation: 4.5/5 Stars for fans of dark, romantic fantasy.
The Premise
The story follows a classic fantasy setup—clashing elements and high stakes—but elevates it through the chemistry between the leads. Set against a backdrop of crumbling kingdoms and soaring dragons (as hinted by the striking cover art), the "Aether" and "Bone" of the title represent the fundamental, often conflicting forces that the characters must master.
What Makes It Stand Out
The Romantic Tension: Toro excels at the "slow burn." The connection between the two main characters feels earned, rooted in shared trauma and mutual respect rather than just instant attraction.
Atmospheric World-Building: The author paints a vivid picture of a world where, if you use magic, you must pay a cost. The descriptions of the landscape and the "bone" magic elements are particularly dark and evocative.
Strong Protagonists: The female lead is a "chosen one", a survivor with agency, and is making difficult choices that have real consequences for the people around her.
The Vibe
If you are a fan of Sarah J. Maas or Rebecca Yarros, this will likely hit the sweet spot for you. It carries that same blend of "fated" feeling romance, dangerous political intrigue, and a touch of the paranormal that keeps you up late.
Final Verdict
Aether and Bone is a solid pick for anyone looking for a "mood read" that balances action with deep emotional stakes. It’s perfect for readers who want to get lost in a new world where the stakes are life-and-death, but the heart of the story remains the bond between the characters.
Rating Recommendation: 4.5/5 Stars for fans of dark, romantic fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Aether and Bone in one sitting. One. Sitting.
I got up exactly once, to grab snacks and a drink,and then I was right back on the couch, fully locked in. That’s how good this book is.
The world-building? Incredible. It has this fantasy post-apocalyptic vibe that somehow balances dark and hopeful at the same time. Everything feels like it’s on the edge of collapse, but there’s still just enough light to keep you holding on. I was completely immersed.
The plot, yes, on the surface it’s your classic “we need to save the world” fantasy. But the way Amber Toro spins it? So good. The world is dying, but there’s no clear cause (at least not yet), and no true, obvious villain. That’s what made it so interesting. There are definitely characters you don’t like, some truly awful people, but no clear big bad… yet. And that ending? It starts to hint at who might step into that role, and I am already obsessed.
The characters were another huge win for me. None of the relationships are easy, no one is getting along perfectly, everyone has their moments, and honestly? It felt real. Messy, complicated, sometimes frustrating in the best way. I especially loved how the backstory between the two main characters was revealed. You get little pieces at the beginning, but the full truth unfolds slowly throughout the book, and it made everything hit so much harder.
Also… dragons.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book with dragons, and I loved how they were handled here. They’re important, very important, but they don’t completely take over the story. They’re woven into the plot in a way that enhances everything instead of overshadowing it.
I loved this book. Full stop.
Read it. Seriously. Go add it to your TBR right now, you’re not moving fast enough.
I got up exactly once, to grab snacks and a drink,and then I was right back on the couch, fully locked in. That’s how good this book is.
The world-building? Incredible. It has this fantasy post-apocalyptic vibe that somehow balances dark and hopeful at the same time. Everything feels like it’s on the edge of collapse, but there’s still just enough light to keep you holding on. I was completely immersed.
The plot, yes, on the surface it’s your classic “we need to save the world” fantasy. But the way Amber Toro spins it? So good. The world is dying, but there’s no clear cause (at least not yet), and no true, obvious villain. That’s what made it so interesting. There are definitely characters you don’t like, some truly awful people, but no clear big bad… yet. And that ending? It starts to hint at who might step into that role, and I am already obsessed.
The characters were another huge win for me. None of the relationships are easy, no one is getting along perfectly, everyone has their moments, and honestly? It felt real. Messy, complicated, sometimes frustrating in the best way. I especially loved how the backstory between the two main characters was revealed. You get little pieces at the beginning, but the full truth unfolds slowly throughout the book, and it made everything hit so much harder.
Also… dragons.
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book with dragons, and I loved how they were handled here. They’re important, very important, but they don’t completely take over the story. They’re woven into the plot in a way that enhances everything instead of overshadowing it.
I loved this book. Full stop.
Read it. Seriously. Go add it to your TBR right now, you’re not moving fast enough.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I recently devoured this eARC, Aether and Bone by Amber Toro and it was DELICIOUS!! I was left scrambling around for a handhold sliding off that cliff and I'm already dying for the next book!
You all know I love a morally grey MMC and Caius is grumpy, mysterious and perfectly imperfect. The FMC, Oliviana, is fierce and sassy and snarky and also perfectly imperfect. The former friends-to enemies-to lovers is drawn out enough for the tension and angst to settle in, but not so long that you grow impatient. The banter between them and the other characters is great, I love banter! The mix between adventure, romance, fantasy, mystery and a seemingly impossible magical quest is just right. The world building is done throughout the book so it is easy to follow and isn't an overwhelming information dump, you get right to the story which I also love! The underground caverns and caves are in danger of failing if Ollie can't use her magical gift to fix the problems plaguing their city. The search for the solution leads them above ground and confronting some hard truths about their living situation and the world above. Oh, and there are dragons!!!
Add this book to your TBR, preorder it and then get comfortable and settle in for a marathon reading session because once you start you won't put it down until you're done!!
You all know I love a morally grey MMC and Caius is grumpy, mysterious and perfectly imperfect. The FMC, Oliviana, is fierce and sassy and snarky and also perfectly imperfect. The former friends-to enemies-to lovers is drawn out enough for the tension and angst to settle in, but not so long that you grow impatient. The banter between them and the other characters is great, I love banter! The mix between adventure, romance, fantasy, mystery and a seemingly impossible magical quest is just right. The world building is done throughout the book so it is easy to follow and isn't an overwhelming information dump, you get right to the story which I also love! The underground caverns and caves are in danger of failing if Ollie can't use her magical gift to fix the problems plaguing their city. The search for the solution leads them above ground and confronting some hard truths about their living situation and the world above. Oh, and there are dragons!!!
Add this book to your TBR, preorder it and then get comfortable and settle in for a marathon reading session because once you start you won't put it down until you're done!!
March 29, 2026
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy!! All views are my own 🥰💕
Wow. Where do I even start?? That book was such an incredible journey from start to finish. The story telling, the descriptions, the freaking LORE?? Spectacular. I enjoyed every second.
We follow the story of Oliviana, a master tinkerer from the Below, from one of the cities hidden beneath the ground. Her father was executed for his magic, and the man who reported him follows her like a shadow, so she must hide her own magic. Dragons rule the above and the magic that sustains the Below is slowly dying, risking the lives of all she loves.
She embarks on a journey to find a solution, deciding to follow the stories of dragon riders and magic that her father raised her on. Her shadow follows her, as well as her best friend and her enemies little sister.
We follow them on their journey, battling dragons, their feelings for each other and crazy wolf like creatures in the woods. The descriptions Amber uses for her world building, the scents and the tastes of the food that Caius always brings Oliviana, the relationships and the slow burn is absolutely everything. I adored this.
If you love enemies to lovers, forbidden magic and FREAKING dragons, you will adore this book.
Wow. Where do I even start?? That book was such an incredible journey from start to finish. The story telling, the descriptions, the freaking LORE?? Spectacular. I enjoyed every second.
We follow the story of Oliviana, a master tinkerer from the Below, from one of the cities hidden beneath the ground. Her father was executed for his magic, and the man who reported him follows her like a shadow, so she must hide her own magic. Dragons rule the above and the magic that sustains the Below is slowly dying, risking the lives of all she loves.
She embarks on a journey to find a solution, deciding to follow the stories of dragon riders and magic that her father raised her on. Her shadow follows her, as well as her best friend and her enemies little sister.
We follow them on their journey, battling dragons, their feelings for each other and crazy wolf like creatures in the woods. The descriptions Amber uses for her world building, the scents and the tastes of the food that Caius always brings Oliviana, the relationships and the slow burn is absolutely everything. I adored this.
If you love enemies to lovers, forbidden magic and FREAKING dragons, you will adore this book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aether and Bone is a pretty solid dragon adventure and save-the-kingdom tale that really hits its stride in the second half. Once Cressida, Dom, Caius, and Olivana find themselves in new lands, the book transforms into a non-stop thrill ride. The action is relentless as they’re chased by monsters and soldiers alike, with every obstacle keeping Olivana from claiming her birthright. If you love high-stakes fantasy packed with danger, you’ll love where this story goes.
That said, the first half of the book didn’t feel as tightly connected to the main plot. While it sets up the world and the characters, I found myself wishing for more character development—especially for Dom and Cressida—to make the transition to the action-packed second half feel more cohesive.
Speaking of characters, Dom was hands-down my favorite. His brooding nature and the way he’s stuck in the friendzone make him an easy character to root for (and feel a little sorry for). What happens with him by the end definitely pulled at my heartstrings.
Overall, if you can push through the slower beginning, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic fantasy adventure full of dragons, danger, and a cast you can’t help but care about.
That said, the first half of the book didn’t feel as tightly connected to the main plot. While it sets up the world and the characters, I found myself wishing for more character development—especially for Dom and Cressida—to make the transition to the action-packed second half feel more cohesive.
Speaking of characters, Dom was hands-down my favorite. His brooding nature and the way he’s stuck in the friendzone make him an easy character to root for (and feel a little sorry for). What happens with him by the end definitely pulled at my heartstrings.
Overall, if you can push through the slower beginning, you’ll be rewarded with a fantastic fantasy adventure full of dragons, danger, and a cast you can’t help but care about.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really wanted to give this book a better rating and although the characters are likable, the world building is very unique and it has a fresh take on dragon riding… it felt underdeveloped.
The world building is gradual which is not a problem for many books but when there are other things such as how we got to this point, how time moves and the relationship with both on where the problem now lies creates room for a lack of clarity.
Within this lack of clarity, there is a lot of push and pull between the two main characters which makes it feel like the large problems at hand are maybe not as urgent as they seem?
It was confusing. I wanted to like them and I wanted to root for them but they were both stubborn and then when it felt like we were supposed to have the awakening of them moving forward happily it felt extremely rushed for all of the aforementioned push and pull. Like a very simple conversation 8 years ago would’ve cleared this whole thing up.
Fun story, fun world building and cool dragons but I think the books needs more explanation in some areas and less in others.
The world building is gradual which is not a problem for many books but when there are other things such as how we got to this point, how time moves and the relationship with both on where the problem now lies creates room for a lack of clarity.
Within this lack of clarity, there is a lot of push and pull between the two main characters which makes it feel like the large problems at hand are maybe not as urgent as they seem?
It was confusing. I wanted to like them and I wanted to root for them but they were both stubborn and then when it felt like we were supposed to have the awakening of them moving forward happily it felt extremely rushed for all of the aforementioned push and pull. Like a very simple conversation 8 years ago would’ve cleared this whole thing up.
Fun story, fun world building and cool dragons but I think the books needs more explanation in some areas and less in others.
April 2, 2026
4.25 ⭐️
I was an arc reader for this book but as always I will give my honest opinion/feedback of the book.
I enjoyed this book. There were moments I felt it moved a little slow but what books don’t have those moments from time to time but over all this book was a very enjoyable read. I was excited by the dragon aspect and although they made few appearances until more towards the end of the book it worked out well. I feel this book lined itself up for a sequel, I’m not sure if that is planned but that is the vibe I got. I feel like I could have used a bit more action but the mystery was good and unraveling the fmc’s story was good. The characters had layers and the found family moment was sweet. There was good banter which is always a plus. I was able to finish this book in a couple of days but, feel like I could have finished in one day if I didn’t have life interfering.
Big thanks to the author for allowing me the opportunity to enjoy her work and enjoy it I did. Definitely recommend!
I was an arc reader for this book but as always I will give my honest opinion/feedback of the book.
I enjoyed this book. There were moments I felt it moved a little slow but what books don’t have those moments from time to time but over all this book was a very enjoyable read. I was excited by the dragon aspect and although they made few appearances until more towards the end of the book it worked out well. I feel this book lined itself up for a sequel, I’m not sure if that is planned but that is the vibe I got. I feel like I could have used a bit more action but the mystery was good and unraveling the fmc’s story was good. The characters had layers and the found family moment was sweet. There was good banter which is always a plus. I was able to finish this book in a couple of days but, feel like I could have finished in one day if I didn’t have life interfering.
Big thanks to the author for allowing me the opportunity to enjoy her work and enjoy it I did. Definitely recommend!
April 4, 2026
I received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
Another fantasy book with dragons and magic and the world ending…… YES AND I LOVED IT.
The world building and lore is great, the way the magic is used and showcased, also loved this…..
Yes there is magic and there are dragons but amazingly they do not take over the story, the main player that carries this book are the character relationships. Everyone is not best mates, who let every thing slide and skip off into the sunset. No, it gets messy, they disagree they argue.
The scenes and descriptions were well written giving a beautiful background to some great story scenes.
The book is filled with will they or won’t they’s in regard to the main story line and the relationship arcs.
I can’t wait to see how the other characters develop. Cressida is very intriguing and I think will play a big part later on and interested to see what happens with Dom and Rui.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
This book needs to be on your TBR!!!
Another fantasy book with dragons and magic and the world ending…… YES AND I LOVED IT.
The world building and lore is great, the way the magic is used and showcased, also loved this…..
Yes there is magic and there are dragons but amazingly they do not take over the story, the main player that carries this book are the character relationships. Everyone is not best mates, who let every thing slide and skip off into the sunset. No, it gets messy, they disagree they argue.
The scenes and descriptions were well written giving a beautiful background to some great story scenes.
The book is filled with will they or won’t they’s in regard to the main story line and the relationship arcs.
I can’t wait to see how the other characters develop. Cressida is very intriguing and I think will play a big part later on and interested to see what happens with Dom and Rui.
Looking forward to the next instalment.
This book needs to be on your TBR!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️5
🔥🔥🔥3/5
so I received this as an arc (first book in the series) and i am so invested🙂↕️
I read this in one sitting- I literally couldn’t put it down
the plot is very strong and beautifully written but easy to follow along with, I love the tension, the banter and the relationships shown!
I loveeeeee the jealous mmc micro trope- gets me everytime kicking my feet and squealing🤣oliviana is a beautiful and unique name and I loved getting to know her and her story as well as caius and their history🔥
it’s a semi enemies to lovers (she hates him) but it’s so well paced and brought together intricately towards the end of the first book
I’ve also highlighted sooo many quotes throughout this book😅
Then that cliffhanger… I am so excited for book 2🫣😆
🔥🔥🔥3/5
so I received this as an arc (first book in the series) and i am so invested🙂↕️
I read this in one sitting- I literally couldn’t put it down
the plot is very strong and beautifully written but easy to follow along with, I love the tension, the banter and the relationships shown!
I loveeeeee the jealous mmc micro trope- gets me everytime kicking my feet and squealing🤣oliviana is a beautiful and unique name and I loved getting to know her and her story as well as caius and their history🔥
it’s a semi enemies to lovers (she hates him) but it’s so well paced and brought together intricately towards the end of the first book
I’ve also highlighted sooo many quotes throughout this book😅
Then that cliffhanger… I am so excited for book 2🫣😆
March 29, 2026
It took me a while to get into. From the beginning I thought I was reading about how the MC died. That had me intrigued. I was wrong, that wasn’t clear to me until I got to the end & went back to check I hadn’t made up in my head that I’d read it.
The world building was beautiful, the character development was fab, I do want to know more about the Secondary MMC. I’m hoping there’s a sequel to this because that feels like a plot hole at the moment.
The FMC & MMC have a tension going on that is frustrating, and only because it’s not clear why she is reluctant until quite far in. So for slow burn that’s great but I’d have liked a little more information a little earlier.
Maybe I’m just impatient?
Overall I recommend this read & I’d loved to know if there’s a next one
The world building was beautiful, the character development was fab, I do want to know more about the Secondary MMC. I’m hoping there’s a sequel to this because that feels like a plot hole at the moment.
The FMC & MMC have a tension going on that is frustrating, and only because it’s not clear why she is reluctant until quite far in. So for slow burn that’s great but I’d have liked a little more information a little earlier.
Maybe I’m just impatient?
Overall I recommend this read & I’d loved to know if there’s a next one
November 19, 2025
I am not a romantasy girl, so to be psyched about one is pretty rare... but this was a really great story! The world is unique and renders some fun challenges, the characters' dynamics are both believable and thoroughly entertaining, and the plot surprises you with its twists and turns. I read this at a time when I needed something that was both highly enjoyable but didn't make me roll my eyes and it definitely delivered.
Full review to come...
CW: A couple spicy scenes that I personally skip, you can see them coming in the moment and the plot doesn't hinge on them so for me it's worthwhile but I wouldn't recommend for the youngins.
Full review to come...
CW: A couple spicy scenes that I personally skip, you can see them coming in the moment and the plot doesn't hinge on them so for me it's worthwhile but I wouldn't recommend for the youngins.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Aether and Bone is one of those rare books that makes you want to close your eyes and drift straight into the world Amber has created. With intricate world-building and vibrant, fully realized characters, this story pulls you in and refuses to let go.
Oliviana is incredibly relatable, her humor and stubbornness make her feel like someone you’d know (or even see yourself in). And Caius… let’s just say he’s set a whole new standard. I’m still not over him. Probably never will.
Needless to say, this was an easy five-star read for me—and I may or may not be lurking in Amber’s DMs, eagerly begging for the sequel.
Oliviana is incredibly relatable, her humor and stubbornness make her feel like someone you’d know (or even see yourself in). And Caius… let’s just say he’s set a whole new standard. I’m still not over him. Probably never will.
Needless to say, this was an easy five-star read for me—and I may or may not be lurking in Amber’s DMs, eagerly begging for the sequel.
April 2, 2026
I literally just finished this and I’m already ready for the next book👀 This book gave me city of ember vibes with dragons and I’m hooked. The world building is amazing, the characters and their relationships strong and believable. Plus the tense slow burn between the FMC and MMC was absolutely the best. This book was so easy to sink into and lose track of the real world around you. It was one of those books that almost feels like a movie rather than just simply reading. If you like strong FMCs, a MMC with darker vibes, touch her and die trope, dragons and a slow burn enemies to lovers this is 100% worth the read.
This book is definitely one I’ll read and reread in the future🖤
This book is definitely one I’ll read and reread in the future🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a unique world that she is building here. I love the way we are just thrown into the story and the past reveals itself as it becomes important.
Oliviana is strong but innocent and her past with Caius makes the tension thick enough to cut with a knife.
The slow burn was worth every page it took to get there.
I really loved the way it ended on that huge reveal and I can't wait to read what happens next.
If you love magic, found family, a quest and of course dragons then you will love this.
I received an advanced reader copy but these thoughts are my own.
Oliviana is strong but innocent and her past with Caius makes the tension thick enough to cut with a knife.
The slow burn was worth every page it took to get there.
I really loved the way it ended on that huge reveal and I can't wait to read what happens next.
If you love magic, found family, a quest and of course dragons then you will love this.
I received an advanced reader copy but these thoughts are my own.
April 3, 2026
WOW! I am absolutely shooketh…this is by far one of the best books I’ve read so far this year, and it’s the 56th book since beginning of 2026. That is saying a LOT! The background story, the character developments, the world building imagery, the magic, the dragons, and the enticing tropes were so expertly crafted. This was a true work of art and I cannot wait until we get the second book!! I am so grateful that the author Amber Toro chose me to send this ARC and invite me into her amazing story! This is a MUST READ to every fantasy/romantasy lover like me!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was good. I had a hard time getting into it in the beginning but once the plot started rolling, the tension was fire, the FMC is one of my favorites. She is unapologetically herself. She doesn't have to scream to get her point across; she's strong, smart and humble. She just wants to fix everyone and everything to help save them all. The world building is intense and feels new to anything else that is currently out. The MMC is to die for. Special shadow daddy that just wants to save his woman. Thank you Amber for the chance to read this book definitely a good read.
April 2, 2026
I’m so grateful and lucky to be on the ARC team for this book! It was absolutely amazing and kept me on the edge of my seat and I can’t wait for the next book(s)!! If you enjoyed Fourth Wing you will love this one!
December 27, 2025
Did a beta read earlier this year. Great book. Looking forward to see how it developed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you for the ARC! This was a fantastic book and I really enjoyed the story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had me in a chokehold. Absolute wonderful story imo.
March 27, 2026
I absolutely love this story! The world, the FMC and MMC, the dragons, the lore! Loved the romance, the journey of the characters, and a look at a new world
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reader copy from the author. I truly enjoyed every moment of this story, it was full of action from beginning to end and kept me hooked the entire time.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Full review to come closer to release date, but this one was lots of fun with slow-burn yearning for daaaaaaaays
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a unique spin on dragon riding! The story begins in an underground society, with a STEM FMC who just wants to be seen for who she is and not the daughter of a disgraced father. Obviously, some events lead her to taking up a quest to save dragons, and Toro blends the quest seamlessly with the unique underground world she created. We have enemies to lovers, found family, a little spice—it was such a fabulous read. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves dragons and quests and twists you don’t see coming.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews