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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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 7, 2026
If it wasn’t for the fact that I started this at 9pm, I absolutely would have finished it in one sitting. I loved this.
I’m a huge fan of dragons and this was done so well. The worldbuilding was so immersive. I genuinely felt like I was there watching everything unfold. I would 100% live in the Above even if there’s a high chance I’d get obliterated by a dragon lol.
I really loved the MCs too. Oliviana is snarky and strong, and Caius is broody and mysterious. They balance each other so well. The friends to enemies to lovers trope??? I need more of that immediately. The banter was so good and I was literally giggling when they finally kissed.
There were a few twists that had me shocked, especially the ending. I guessed none of it 😂 I need book two immediately.
I’m a huge fan of dragons and this was done so well. The worldbuilding was so immersive. I genuinely felt like I was there watching everything unfold. I would 100% live in the Above even if there’s a high chance I’d get obliterated by a dragon lol.
I really loved the MCs too. Oliviana is snarky and strong, and Caius is broody and mysterious. They balance each other so well. The friends to enemies to lovers trope??? I need more of that immediately. The banter was so good and I was literally giggling when they finally kissed.
There were a few twists that had me shocked, especially the ending. I guessed none of it 😂 I need book two immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The magic that fuels Oliviana’s city in The Below is fading. She can wield the same magic her father was executed for having. The council asks a dangerous task of her but she quickly learns it’s a set up. She must team with the “prince of darkness,” Caius Amarala (the man responsible for her father’s death) in order to save her cavernous city from ruin. Forced Below because of dragons and other beasts in The Above, Oliviana wonders if the legends of the dragon riders are true. She goes on a quest with Caius to find answers and hopefully save the cities of The Below.
What a book! I can’t believe it was under 400 pages because it was packed with stuff going on. In fact the only thing this book didn’t have was a pronunciation guide😂😂 Although not everything was tied up in the end (dare I say book 2?), I really enjoyed every minute of this book! The tension was giving! 🫰🏽 It wasn’t until like 70% in that the FMC & MMC really got going. I live for yearning. Dragons, enemies to lovers, world building, and only one bedroll are only some of the things you can expect! Coming out in June, you need to add this to your summer TBR right away!!
What a book! I can’t believe it was under 400 pages because it was packed with stuff going on. In fact the only thing this book didn’t have was a pronunciation guide😂😂 Although not everything was tied up in the end (dare I say book 2?), I really enjoyed every minute of this book! The tension was giving! 🫰🏽 It wasn’t until like 70% in that the FMC & MMC really got going. I live for yearning. Dragons, enemies to lovers, world building, and only one bedroll are only some of the things you can expect! Coming out in June, you need to add this to your summer TBR right away!!
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
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Usually, reviews begin with comparisons to other books, like “this book is X meets Y with a splash of Z.” However, I found it incomparable. It’s unlike anything I’ve read, at least not that I’ve come across.
The world-building was immersive. It depicted a civilization living in The Below, in caverns powered by the magic of dragon riders long gone. The Above, on the other hand, was ruled by terrifying rider-less dragons. I was captivated by the magic system and the lore of ancestors’ bones being kept by loved ones through generations, serving as a source of power.
The protagonist, Oliviana, a girl with a secret of her own, was refreshingly confident compared to the protagonists of recent books who often have a running monologue of self-doubt and a whiny demeanor. While she did have internal debates about whether she would succeed in her quest once at the destination, she remained confident that she would indeed reach the end. She was confident in her climbing skills, her determination to help her people, and her unwavering resolve to push forward. The rock climbing scenes were particularly enjoyable, as they were a unique and unexpected element in a romantasy. I don’t mean rock climbing like hiking up switchback trails along a cliff face, I mean anchor and ropes cliff climbing as a part of daily life.
The male protagonist, Caius, was not your typical shadow-daddy. There was more to him than met the eye. Initially, he appeared as the obvious annoyance, bad boy energy, daddy’s trained warrior. However, the moment came when you realized that his entire life had been dedicated to her, even when she thought he was self-serving. He was self-sacrificing and delicious.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was beautifully executed. Childhood friends who suffered an unforgivable betrayal. There were delightful moments of torment, his dirty mouth, and the overall romance was beautifully crafted without being forced to be the main focus.
The ending left a cliffhanger open, leaving readers eager to know how they would save their people. The last chapter provided a glimpse into the past and revealed more bits of that betrayal, which added to the intrigue.
I can’t wait for a sequel to this captivating book!
It was delightful to read something distinct and unique in its own way. I’m eagerly anticipating the unfolding of the dragon storyline, particularly the dynamics between the characters and their friends (and even frienemies?) throughout the narrative. I hope to delve deeper into the magic system, and geography.
And finally, I’m especially interested to see how Oliviana manages to keep Caius in check. If you know, you know ;)
The world-building was immersive. It depicted a civilization living in The Below, in caverns powered by the magic of dragon riders long gone. The Above, on the other hand, was ruled by terrifying rider-less dragons. I was captivated by the magic system and the lore of ancestors’ bones being kept by loved ones through generations, serving as a source of power.
The protagonist, Oliviana, a girl with a secret of her own, was refreshingly confident compared to the protagonists of recent books who often have a running monologue of self-doubt and a whiny demeanor. While she did have internal debates about whether she would succeed in her quest once at the destination, she remained confident that she would indeed reach the end. She was confident in her climbing skills, her determination to help her people, and her unwavering resolve to push forward. The rock climbing scenes were particularly enjoyable, as they were a unique and unexpected element in a romantasy. I don’t mean rock climbing like hiking up switchback trails along a cliff face, I mean anchor and ropes cliff climbing as a part of daily life.
The male protagonist, Caius, was not your typical shadow-daddy. There was more to him than met the eye. Initially, he appeared as the obvious annoyance, bad boy energy, daddy’s trained warrior. However, the moment came when you realized that his entire life had been dedicated to her, even when she thought he was self-serving. He was self-sacrificing and delicious.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was beautifully executed. Childhood friends who suffered an unforgivable betrayal. There were delightful moments of torment, his dirty mouth, and the overall romance was beautifully crafted without being forced to be the main focus.
The ending left a cliffhanger open, leaving readers eager to know how they would save their people. The last chapter provided a glimpse into the past and revealed more bits of that betrayal, which added to the intrigue.
I can’t wait for a sequel to this captivating book!
It was delightful to read something distinct and unique in its own way. I’m eagerly anticipating the unfolding of the dragon storyline, particularly the dynamics between the characters and their friends (and even frienemies?) throughout the narrative. I hope to delve deeper into the magic system, and geography.
And finally, I’m especially interested to see how Oliviana manages to keep Caius in check. If you know, you know ;)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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
If quarter stars were a thing, this would definitely be a 3.75 for me. It didn’t land quite at a 4-star read, but rating it a 3 — or even calling it a 3.5 — didn’t sit right with me because of how fun this book was.
I’ll get my small critiques out of the way first, because they really were minor compared to how much I enjoyed the book overall.
I do wish there had been a pronunciation guide for some of the more unusual words and names — especially something like MíĪtarGǔ — because I had no clue how I was supposed to say that in my head.
There were also no clear scene breaks in some places, which made a few moments feel a little jumpy or confusing. I haven’t read any of Amber Toro’s other works yet — even though Umbra has been on my TBR forever — so I don’t know if that’s part of her usual writing style or something that may smooth out in edits. Either way, it was pretty minor for me and didn’t weigh heavily on my rating.
Some of the writing felt a little choppy in spots, even during dialogue, and I did find myself wishing for a bit more description at times.
That probably sounds like a lot of negatives, but they were honestly small compared to the rest of the book, which was such a fun read.
It felt like a mix of Reign of Fire and Eragon, with dragons, tension, danger, and a character dynamic that really pulled me in. The main characters were childhood sweethearts turned enemies-to-lovers, and the tension between them had that messy, complicated history I love.
I didn’t realize how badly I needed that last chapter.
I am so excited to see where this story goes.
*
I would give this 🌶️🌶️ for one detailed open-door scene plus a shorter hands-on scene.
There is cussing throughout, as well as blood on page and talk of a past execution of a close family member.
Always check your trigger warnings!
I’ll get my small critiques out of the way first, because they really were minor compared to how much I enjoyed the book overall.
I do wish there had been a pronunciation guide for some of the more unusual words and names — especially something like MíĪtarGǔ — because I had no clue how I was supposed to say that in my head.
There were also no clear scene breaks in some places, which made a few moments feel a little jumpy or confusing. I haven’t read any of Amber Toro’s other works yet — even though Umbra has been on my TBR forever — so I don’t know if that’s part of her usual writing style or something that may smooth out in edits. Either way, it was pretty minor for me and didn’t weigh heavily on my rating.
Some of the writing felt a little choppy in spots, even during dialogue, and I did find myself wishing for a bit more description at times.
That probably sounds like a lot of negatives, but they were honestly small compared to the rest of the book, which was such a fun read.
It felt like a mix of Reign of Fire and Eragon, with dragons, tension, danger, and a character dynamic that really pulled me in. The main characters were childhood sweethearts turned enemies-to-lovers, and the tension between them had that messy, complicated history I love.
I didn’t realize how badly I needed that last chapter.
I am so excited to see where this story goes.
*
I would give this 🌶️🌶️ for one detailed open-door scene plus a shorter hands-on scene.
There is cussing throughout, as well as blood on page and talk of a past execution of a close family member.
Always check your trigger warnings!
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
ARC Review: 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really enjoyed this book; I was intrigued by the premise from the start, and the worldbuilding was beautiful. It is an action-packed, fast-paced story that was overall very well executed.
The characters were detailed and layered, and I thought their development was well-written. I especially loved the relationship between the FMC and the MMC. The banter and tension were phenomenal, and I truly appreciated the slow burn. Both characters carry their share of trauma, so they didn't just fall in love instantly and it felt like a very natural progression.
While this is marketed as a book with dragons, we don’t actually see much of them until toward the end. Their lore is well-established throughout the story, but they aren't front-and-center for a while. Since this is clearly the start of a series, I’m excited to see more of the "dragon rider era" in the sequel.
My biggest complaint, however, was the pacing. Some moments happened so fast that I didn't realize what was happening until the scene was already over, while other sections felt dragged out. For a story about an epic journey, the characters spent a significant amount of time underground. While I understand this served the worldbuilding, it felt like it occupied the majority of the book.
I also felt the formatting and editing were a bit off. Many scenes within a single chapter deserved to be separated by line breaks. Without them, it often felt like a cluster of disconnected moments shoved into one chapter.
There were a few plot holes I hope are expanded upon in the sequel (like the portals, which were mentioned briefly but never explained).
Overall, this was a great read. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for a sequel!
I really enjoyed this book; I was intrigued by the premise from the start, and the worldbuilding was beautiful. It is an action-packed, fast-paced story that was overall very well executed.
The characters were detailed and layered, and I thought their development was well-written. I especially loved the relationship between the FMC and the MMC. The banter and tension were phenomenal, and I truly appreciated the slow burn. Both characters carry their share of trauma, so they didn't just fall in love instantly and it felt like a very natural progression.
While this is marketed as a book with dragons, we don’t actually see much of them until toward the end. Their lore is well-established throughout the story, but they aren't front-and-center for a while. Since this is clearly the start of a series, I’m excited to see more of the "dragon rider era" in the sequel.
My biggest complaint, however, was the pacing. Some moments happened so fast that I didn't realize what was happening until the scene was already over, while other sections felt dragged out. For a story about an epic journey, the characters spent a significant amount of time underground. While I understand this served the worldbuilding, it felt like it occupied the majority of the book.
I also felt the formatting and editing were a bit off. Many scenes within a single chapter deserved to be separated by line breaks. Without them, it often felt like a cluster of disconnected moments shoved into one chapter.
There were a few plot holes I hope are expanded upon in the sequel (like the portals, which were mentioned briefly but never explained).
Overall, this was a great read. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for a sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book.
I wanted to give this book a better rating, but to echo some of the other reviewers sentiments. I felt like the world building was okay, but there were other major faults (IMO) such as the passage of time, how we got to where we are, the relationships with the MC's and just how some things developed in the end.
I did feel like a lot of parts were confusing especially because you couldn't figure out how much time was going by and I didn't understand that whole system. I do get the general gist of the storyline and you do see how things are wrapped up towards the ending (which I really appreciate). The tension between the FMC and the MMC just felt... off? Like they were drawn to each other but she was mad about something that had happened, but she's still drawn to him? And then add in her best friend and the sister. I just felt like I couldn't truly feel the real chemistry between anyone.
The end it definitely got better especially when you could see what happened with the MMC and his motivations. He really would burn the world for her and I did love that aspect.
There were other things towards the end of the book when she meets the keeper, finds out that they are related and then immediately takes to calling him Uncle. This whole part just felt really underdeveloped.
I will say I was happy with the plot twist at the end of the book between Caius in the hatching grounds and I am excited to see how they are going to move forward to solve the main issue being the failing magic.
Overall a fun story with the dragons and the world and the dying magic is a really cool concept. I just really hope to see it developed out a bit more.
I wanted to give this book a better rating, but to echo some of the other reviewers sentiments. I felt like the world building was okay, but there were other major faults (IMO) such as the passage of time, how we got to where we are, the relationships with the MC's and just how some things developed in the end.
I did feel like a lot of parts were confusing especially because you couldn't figure out how much time was going by and I didn't understand that whole system. I do get the general gist of the storyline and you do see how things are wrapped up towards the ending (which I really appreciate). The tension between the FMC and the MMC just felt... off? Like they were drawn to each other but she was mad about something that had happened, but she's still drawn to him? And then add in her best friend and the sister. I just felt like I couldn't truly feel the real chemistry between anyone.
The end it definitely got better especially when you could see what happened with the MMC and his motivations. He really would burn the world for her and I did love that aspect.
There were other things towards the end of the book when she meets the keeper, finds out that they are related and then immediately takes to calling him Uncle. This whole part just felt really underdeveloped.
I will say I was happy with the plot twist at the end of the book between Caius in the hatching grounds and I am excited to see how they are going to move forward to solve the main issue being the failing magic.
Overall a fun story with the dragons and the world and the dying magic is a really cool concept. I just really hope to see it developed out a bit more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review..
"I never thought I would get the chance to stare death in the eye. I also never imagined those eyes would burn bright orange with an intelligence that suggests she knew she was going to eat me whole and delight in taking my soul down to the deepest cavern of hell. But I've gotten ahead of myself.."
If that prelude doesn’t draw you in immediately.. stay tuned because it only gets better!
The world-building was immersive, brilliant, full with intricate details that pull you in. The world survives in “The Below” -caverns that are powered by the magic of dragon riders long gone. “The Above”, is ruled by hell-bent rider-less dragons and other beasts.
The magic system is fueled by long dead ancestors bones held dearly by loved ones, serving as a source of power.
The FMC, Oliviana (Ollie or Liv), the confident, stubborn and snarky girl with a secret of her own. She is refreshingly strong in her own right, knowing her worth and excelling at her talents - often hiding the internal debates and self doubt with determination and unwavering resolve. She closely holds onto her secrets, her life depending on it.
The FMC, Caius, the dark Prince is laced sarcasm, wit, and a fierce unfathomable art for taking down his enemies. He has pledged his life to keeping a promise.
The spice is next level, the slow burn - chef’s kiss.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was beautifully executed. Childhood friends who suffered an unforgivable betrayal.
“What, are you afraid of the Dark?”
“Darling, I am the Dark”
The cliffhanger that kept me up until 2am… brilliant. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you, Amber Torro, for allowing me to be part of your ARC team.
"I never thought I would get the chance to stare death in the eye. I also never imagined those eyes would burn bright orange with an intelligence that suggests she knew she was going to eat me whole and delight in taking my soul down to the deepest cavern of hell. But I've gotten ahead of myself.."
If that prelude doesn’t draw you in immediately.. stay tuned because it only gets better!
The world-building was immersive, brilliant, full with intricate details that pull you in. The world survives in “The Below” -caverns that are powered by the magic of dragon riders long gone. “The Above”, is ruled by hell-bent rider-less dragons and other beasts.
The magic system is fueled by long dead ancestors bones held dearly by loved ones, serving as a source of power.
The FMC, Oliviana (Ollie or Liv), the confident, stubborn and snarky girl with a secret of her own. She is refreshingly strong in her own right, knowing her worth and excelling at her talents - often hiding the internal debates and self doubt with determination and unwavering resolve. She closely holds onto her secrets, her life depending on it.
The FMC, Caius, the dark Prince is laced sarcasm, wit, and a fierce unfathomable art for taking down his enemies. He has pledged his life to keeping a promise.
The spice is next level, the slow burn - chef’s kiss.
The enemies-to-lovers trope was beautifully executed. Childhood friends who suffered an unforgivable betrayal.
“What, are you afraid of the Dark?”
“Darling, I am the Dark”
The cliffhanger that kept me up until 2am… brilliant. I cannot wait for the next book!
Thank you, Amber Torro, for allowing me to be part of your ARC team.
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
I absolutely loved this book !!
The whole concept of the world above being ruled by dragons and the world below where humans were forced to live in caves where the magic was now fading was such a cool concept !! I loved it so much.
I loved all the characters and they were all well written. Caius always being there for Liv whilst she and Dom hated his guts was so well done, like you could tell there were things he was hiding from Liv but he knew she wasn't ready for the truth yet so he let her keep her hatred towards him.
I also love how Dom was written, like he wasn't a possessive jealous friend, he truly cared for her wellbeing and accepted her choices in the end. He was also good to his enemy's (cough Cauis) sister and didnt hold anything against her. She was just there to instigate drama half the time, she was so younger sibling coded and it was great.
The world building was perfectly done too, like I loved all the details of the dragons, the journeys and all the other people and places they came across in between.
The whole concept of the world above being ruled by dragons and the world below where humans were forced to live in caves where the magic was now fading was such a cool concept !! I loved it so much.
I loved all the characters and they were all well written. Caius always being there for Liv whilst she and Dom hated his guts was so well done, like you could tell there were things he was hiding from Liv but he knew she wasn't ready for the truth yet so he let her keep her hatred towards him.
I also love how Dom was written, like he wasn't a possessive jealous friend, he truly cared for her wellbeing and accepted her choices in the end. He was also good to his enemy's (cough Cauis) sister and didnt hold anything against her. She was just there to instigate drama half the time, she was so younger sibling coded and it was great.
The world building was perfectly done too, like I loved all the details of the dragons, the journeys and all the other people and places they came across in between.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received eARC from author to review - publishing June 2, 2026
This was the first book I've read by Amber Toro, and I'm really excited about this series! The last 50% of the book had me in a chokehold, I could NOT put my kindle down!
I gave this book 4 stars because I did struggle a bit with the world building at the beginning; the gods/city names are so unique and the magical history is different than any other book I've read. I was trying to understand the "whys" and connections of everything too soon - my advice now that I've finished, just enjoy the ride! Once Oliviana starts her quest, the action really ramps up. Closer to the end of the book there are more glimpses into the past that give you context on relationships and how things came to be. I was giggling and kicking my feet at some of Caius's one-liners and absolutely heart broken at some of his admissions... he may be my new shadow daddy obsession!
This was the first book I've read by Amber Toro, and I'm really excited about this series! The last 50% of the book had me in a chokehold, I could NOT put my kindle down!
I gave this book 4 stars because I did struggle a bit with the world building at the beginning; the gods/city names are so unique and the magical history is different than any other book I've read. I was trying to understand the "whys" and connections of everything too soon - my advice now that I've finished, just enjoy the ride! Once Oliviana starts her quest, the action really ramps up. Closer to the end of the book there are more glimpses into the past that give you context on relationships and how things came to be. I was giggling and kicking my feet at some of Caius's one-liners and absolutely heart broken at some of his admissions... he may be my new shadow daddy obsession!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars but rounded up to 5.
It's like a warm romantasy hug. If you have just read a high fantasy book that's left you feeling unwell, and your brain needs a break, this is for you
I like the plot but it's not too heavy. The world building isn’t super complicated, you don’t need to keep notes on all the different gods or keep referring to a map. The pace is good and this is another book that has interludes which take us back to a character's past so we get a better understanding of them. I’m really hoping that book two un-picks Cressida’s character and backstory a bit more.
The tension between Oliviana and Cauis starts immediately and it's great. I love how they both try and wind each other up and they’re pretty evenly matched. Who doesn’t love a smirk or half grin and then someone who would burn the world down for you. I’m looking forward to book 2!
It's like a warm romantasy hug. If you have just read a high fantasy book that's left you feeling unwell, and your brain needs a break, this is for you
I like the plot but it's not too heavy. The world building isn’t super complicated, you don’t need to keep notes on all the different gods or keep referring to a map. The pace is good and this is another book that has interludes which take us back to a character's past so we get a better understanding of them. I’m really hoping that book two un-picks Cressida’s character and backstory a bit more.
The tension between Oliviana and Cauis starts immediately and it's great. I love how they both try and wind each other up and they’re pretty evenly matched. Who doesn’t love a smirk or half grin and then someone who would burn the world down for you. I’m looking forward to book 2!
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
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so excited to be an ARC reader! This book. It is amazing.
“I never thought I would get the chance to stare death in the eye. I also never imagined those eyes would burn bright orange with an intelligence that suggests she knew she was going to eat me whole and delight in taking my soul down to the deepest cavern of hell. But I’ve gotten ahead of myself…”
That opening paragraph caught me and I could not put the book down.
From the relationships of the characters to the action and the depth of strength in the FMC this book is full of emotion & o we coming things that would stand in your way.
You will laugh, may cry, but root deeply for the characters and enjoy each moment you get to walk in their world. I love this book and can not wait for the next one!!
“I never thought I would get the chance to stare death in the eye. I also never imagined those eyes would burn bright orange with an intelligence that suggests she knew she was going to eat me whole and delight in taking my soul down to the deepest cavern of hell. But I’ve gotten ahead of myself…”
That opening paragraph caught me and I could not put the book down.
From the relationships of the characters to the action and the depth of strength in the FMC this book is full of emotion & o we coming things that would stand in your way.
You will laugh, may cry, but root deeply for the characters and enjoy each moment you get to walk in their world. I love this book and can not wait for the next one!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
What can I tell you? I absolutely loved this book. Dragons, magic, romance, the world building ? Chef kiss. The FMC? Gave it all, I really like Oliviana since page one. Caius? He was also amazing and I love the way he protected our Oliviana. The world building in this book was stunning, its like I was sitting watching a movie on the big screen, I could see everything the way it was describe and I for sure could see my self when the characters. The side characters, the dragons were so great I couldn't get enough. When I tell I havent read a book like this in a while, I am not lying. I could definitely see myself rereading. This author has captivated our heart with this amazing story. Make sure to add it to your tbr becuase you aren't going to want to miss it.
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
This was an incredible read! I couldn’t stop turning pages-the simmering tension and longing between the FMC and MMC kept me in full “one-more-chapter” mode. The worldbuilding is immersive and the magic system is clear and compelling. The characters are richly developed, and the plot is fantastic: a world on the brink of collapse, a brave young woman determined to save humanity, and a bold gamble to bond with a dragon-despite dragon riders having been gone for generations. Gripping, emotional, and beautifully imagined. Highly recommended.
I received an advanced reader copy and this review is left voluntarily.
I received an advanced reader copy and this review is left voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book helped me completely escape the world for a day. It was so good that I got completely sucked into the story and left adulthood behind for a while. The writing pulls you in so easily, and before I knew it, I was fully immersed in the world.
The characters were written so well. Oliviana and Cauis had me constantly hoping for the best while fearing the worst for them at the same time. Their journey kept me emotionally invested from beginning to end. The world-building was just wow……so vivid and easy to get lost in.
This was one of those books that reminds you why you love reading in the first place. Highly recommend.
The characters were written so well. Oliviana and Cauis had me constantly hoping for the best while fearing the worst for them at the same time. Their journey kept me emotionally invested from beginning to end. The world-building was just wow……so vivid and easy to get lost in.
This was one of those books that reminds you why you love reading in the first place. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow! I stayed up way past bedtime and then reached for it first thing in the wee hours! This was a hit for me. Dystopian-ish fantasy, with dragons, a second chance romance/enemies to lovers with the most delicious slowwwww burn. I liked the balance of detail in the world without anachronisms of language or household items that can just ruin the vibe for me. Toro did a masterful job of creating a realistic world with enough detail to immerse yourself in, without getting stuck in pages of descriptive background. The plot was well paced and I kept turning pages, I finished it in about 3 days. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book!!
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.
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