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Echo of Broken Skies
Sky and Ash. Dragon and phoenix. Two Echoes fated to be salvation for the world - or ruin.
From Jessica Deen Norris, award-winning author of Firesight, comes a fierce new YA fantasy with prophecies, betrayals, and beasts bound in legend.
Raven’s power brings only pain to others - and she’s lived her whole life in the shadows because of it. But when her magic draws the attention of something monstrous, she escapes into the unknown, desperate to find answers beyond the Silent Gulf.
In Vocaris, where magic means death, Derron keeps his wind powers buried deep. But when the king’s guards close in, he flees - straight into a rebel uprising built on secrets… and a long-feared prophecy.
The Sky and Ash could save the world - or shatter it.
As war brews and loyalties fracture, Raven and Derron must unravel the truth behind the myth… before they destroy each other.
Echo of Broken Skies is perfect for fans of hidden magic, found family, powerful creature bonds, and prophecies that won’t stay buried.
From Jessica Deen Norris, award-winning author of Firesight, comes a fierce new YA fantasy with prophecies, betrayals, and beasts bound in legend.
Raven’s power brings only pain to others - and she’s lived her whole life in the shadows because of it. But when her magic draws the attention of something monstrous, she escapes into the unknown, desperate to find answers beyond the Silent Gulf.
In Vocaris, where magic means death, Derron keeps his wind powers buried deep. But when the king’s guards close in, he flees - straight into a rebel uprising built on secrets… and a long-feared prophecy.
The Sky and Ash could save the world - or shatter it.
As war brews and loyalties fracture, Raven and Derron must unravel the truth behind the myth… before they destroy each other.
Echo of Broken Skies is perfect for fans of hidden magic, found family, powerful creature bonds, and prophecies that won’t stay buried.
- GenresFantasy
388 pages, Paperback
Published November 19, 2025
4 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Deen Norris
5 books117 followersI’ve always loved a good hero. Growing up, I played with Ninja Turtles as much as Barbie dolls. I had to be home in time to watch the Power Rangers every day, and I will forever be the Pink Ranger.
And then there were the books—so many good books. I loved getting lost in new worlds, and eventually, making up my own. I don’t think it can get better than that, except with a big mug of Community Coffee in my hand.
I grew up in Louisiana, so what other coffee brand is there? I still live in a small Cajun town with my husband and five children. I wake up early and write most mornings, then homeschool the kids. The rest of the day is open to shenanigans, and hopefully, I get some time to read.
Did I mention I drink a lot of coffee?
I always dreamed of being an author, and now that dream is happening with the publication of my first novel, Firesight. It’s a little hard to believe that I got to live in these characters’ heads, and now you do too!
And then there were the books—so many good books. I loved getting lost in new worlds, and eventually, making up my own. I don’t think it can get better than that, except with a big mug of Community Coffee in my hand.
I grew up in Louisiana, so what other coffee brand is there? I still live in a small Cajun town with my husband and five children. I wake up early and write most mornings, then homeschool the kids. The rest of the day is open to shenanigans, and hopefully, I get some time to read.
Did I mention I drink a lot of coffee?
I always dreamed of being an author, and now that dream is happening with the publication of my first novel, Firesight. It’s a little hard to believe that I got to live in these characters’ heads, and now you do too!
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
November 6, 2025
So I’m not a kid secretly reading a fantasy book in math class, but I am an adult reading it between work things! Shhh, don’t tell my boss.
Jessica Deen Norris is a wonderful author who I started following last year with her previous series, The Dragon Guardian Chronicles. Her mind for fantasy stories is boundless! In Echo of Broken Skies, she brings magic, fantasy, magical creatures, and other fun elements to life. It is an easy read, super fun, and totally engaging. I couldn’t put the book down, I had to read well into the night last night, I needed to know what happened with our heroes Raven and Derron! Sleep could wait!
What I enjoy most about Norris’ books are the lack of romantasy vibes. There are love interests, but they are kid-friendly. I am able to share my love of dragons and fantasy novels with my nephew and niece, without exposing them to spice.
The magic element is introduced immediately in this book, which is nice. I didn’t have to wait and anticipate the fantasy, it starts with a bang!
It also differs from other fantasy, in that character and location names are not difficult to read/pronounce. I am able to remember character names, and not mentally gloss over difficult names. The lore building in this first book of the series is fantastic. The lore continues to build throughout the entire book, and reminded me of the lore building in Eragon. I was very pleased that this first novel in the Sky & Ash series spent some serious time with lore and world building. It was fascinating to delve into the world of magic, prophecies, past and present colliding, and beating the odds!
There are twists, turns, surprises, and fun to be had. I already said it, but I seriously had a hard time putting down the book. Dragons and phoenixes are my personal favorite fantasy creatures, and seeing them come alive in this book was so fun.
I do wish there was an index, as some of the terms used I would like to be able to flip back and reference to refresh what they mean. But this is really the only thing I found lacking.
Go give it a read!!
Jessica Deen Norris is a wonderful author who I started following last year with her previous series, The Dragon Guardian Chronicles. Her mind for fantasy stories is boundless! In Echo of Broken Skies, she brings magic, fantasy, magical creatures, and other fun elements to life. It is an easy read, super fun, and totally engaging. I couldn’t put the book down, I had to read well into the night last night, I needed to know what happened with our heroes Raven and Derron! Sleep could wait!
What I enjoy most about Norris’ books are the lack of romantasy vibes. There are love interests, but they are kid-friendly. I am able to share my love of dragons and fantasy novels with my nephew and niece, without exposing them to spice.
The magic element is introduced immediately in this book, which is nice. I didn’t have to wait and anticipate the fantasy, it starts with a bang!
It also differs from other fantasy, in that character and location names are not difficult to read/pronounce. I am able to remember character names, and not mentally gloss over difficult names. The lore building in this first book of the series is fantastic. The lore continues to build throughout the entire book, and reminded me of the lore building in Eragon. I was very pleased that this first novel in the Sky & Ash series spent some serious time with lore and world building. It was fascinating to delve into the world of magic, prophecies, past and present colliding, and beating the odds!
There are twists, turns, surprises, and fun to be had. I already said it, but I seriously had a hard time putting down the book. Dragons and phoenixes are my personal favorite fantasy creatures, and seeing them come alive in this book was so fun.
I do wish there was an index, as some of the terms used I would like to be able to flip back and reference to refresh what they mean. But this is really the only thing I found lacking.
Go give it a read!!
November 19, 2025
A compelling adventure and emotional tale of hidden magic, corruption, twisted prophecy and survival.
Two souls bonded by magic, destiny and a prophecy of sky and ash, both forced to hide their powers and stay invisible.
Raven fears her destructive powers but yearns for freedom and truth, while Derron hides his powers and journeys on an unexpected path hoping for validation and acceptance.
I loved the themes of found family, mythical creature bonds, and unexpected heroes.
It's an epic ya fantasy adventure filled with high stakes, action, rescues, character growth and resilience, and surviving a prophecy twisted by fear and corrupt leaders.
Excited for the next book.
Two souls bonded by magic, destiny and a prophecy of sky and ash, both forced to hide their powers and stay invisible.
Raven fears her destructive powers but yearns for freedom and truth, while Derron hides his powers and journeys on an unexpected path hoping for validation and acceptance.
I loved the themes of found family, mythical creature bonds, and unexpected heroes.
It's an epic ya fantasy adventure filled with high stakes, action, rescues, character growth and resilience, and surviving a prophecy twisted by fear and corrupt leaders.
Excited for the next book.
November 13, 2025
This read caught me in its web from the very compellingly potent prologue. The birth of a child is a joyous event, a miracle to be greeted with warmth and happiness, not in fear and horror. Yet that is exactly the emotions the birth of a baby girl brought forth on her arrival into the world. But even worse, she had been born with the mark. The Echo Mark. A mark that means instant death for any bearing it.
Fast forward 17 years and we follow two individuals, both of whom have the mark. Both of whom would be called "Clamor" or magic user. Both of whom are in hiding. Derron in plain sight, careful to keep his magic in check; Raven, living totally secluded in isolation, a danger to herself and others. The author, using awesome descriptive prose, brings these characters to life. There's not much better than "seeing" and "feeling" a character. It's easy to feel their despair and fears. I completely get Raven's "rebellious" streak, she needs answers, she can't just wile her time secluded, not seeing others. Her curiosity for truth is overpowering. Add to that the strange melody she keeps hearing, well, she disregards the only person who's been keeping her safe and ventures into unknown territory. Facing danger after danger, she slowly evolves, until, after much despair and uncertainty, something finally clicks. This realisation Raven has strengthens her resolve to embark on a dangerous ploy, “Running won’t solve anything, and hiding won’t bring answers.” And boy did I love seeing her transformation!
Likewise, Derron is facing a conundrum. Approached by someone who promises help get him away, keep him safe from beasts that prey on Clamors and soldiers hunting them, but he is torn. Until a horrific incident forces his hand. I love him so much! Barely scratching an existence after a tragedy, he has a smart brain in that head of his, he doesn't just accept, he questions, he observes, he notices. A lot of what he does notice, turns his stomach....Gosh do I love the way the author really actualised these 2. So different yet the guilt they carry is like a boil about to erupt, is equally strong, their desire for acceptance, palpable. Both incredibly naive but both wanting a better way than violence. Both their lives, based on lies, nearly shattered them when the truth came out, this truth more deadly than the king's soldiers, more deadly than the Ravagers.
I loved loved loved Idalia and Kadris! Whereas Idalia is all warmth and acceptance, Kadris is all snark and disdain but I did love his attitude, even though Derron dispaired, "his bond with Kadris feel less like finding a missing piece and more like being shackled to a hostile force". Jessica wrung this out splendidly, giving the bonds credibility and realism. Not only with Idalia and Kadris but with the very cool Cody and Janna. As their eyes are opened, so too are mine and heck they very soon were as wide as saucers! The explicit characterisation is excellent, real. Such cool characters! But oh I don't like Janelle and Veralin, not one bit! But that's the point isn't it, and Jessica got me loathing them right from the start. Her excellent penmanship caught me up in the revulsion of these two, and a few others, just as I was caught up rooting for some. Some came out of the woodwork, like Linette, who surprised the socks off me! See? Twists!!!!
Incredibly intensely dramatic scenes, tense, gut churning from the start, escalating in tempo as the story progresses. The twists started out slowly, unexpectedly, then wham! They wove so tight, it's a wonder I wasn't squeezed to oblivion! One bombshell after another until I was dizzy from the onslaught....Where the lines between good and bad are blurred, where doing "the wrong thing" for the right reasons is questionable. Where headstrong, hardened individuals cross the line time and again, uncaringly so, unemotionally so.
What started off as a "simple" tale of two young people, hounded for who they were, quickly became much more complex, much more elaborate. In a captivating and riveting way. Rebels, beasts and soldiers, pitted against each other. Fear, fear mongering, brutality, ruthlessness, torture, prophecy, all come to a head. I love a deliciously dark read, and this was both dark and delicious. It's really cool to see a magic that's a different type of dark, not necromancy, but a deadly power that lives in the veins, in the cells of any who bear the mark. It's a unique take on magic and what's even cooler, it's introduced at the onset but builds throughout the book. As does the world building, each block precisely placed, each block slotting in skilfully, a master builder who's finished product is beautiful to behold. And leaves me wanting more...
Fast forward 17 years and we follow two individuals, both of whom have the mark. Both of whom would be called "Clamor" or magic user. Both of whom are in hiding. Derron in plain sight, careful to keep his magic in check; Raven, living totally secluded in isolation, a danger to herself and others. The author, using awesome descriptive prose, brings these characters to life. There's not much better than "seeing" and "feeling" a character. It's easy to feel their despair and fears. I completely get Raven's "rebellious" streak, she needs answers, she can't just wile her time secluded, not seeing others. Her curiosity for truth is overpowering. Add to that the strange melody she keeps hearing, well, she disregards the only person who's been keeping her safe and ventures into unknown territory. Facing danger after danger, she slowly evolves, until, after much despair and uncertainty, something finally clicks. This realisation Raven has strengthens her resolve to embark on a dangerous ploy, “Running won’t solve anything, and hiding won’t bring answers.” And boy did I love seeing her transformation!
Likewise, Derron is facing a conundrum. Approached by someone who promises help get him away, keep him safe from beasts that prey on Clamors and soldiers hunting them, but he is torn. Until a horrific incident forces his hand. I love him so much! Barely scratching an existence after a tragedy, he has a smart brain in that head of his, he doesn't just accept, he questions, he observes, he notices. A lot of what he does notice, turns his stomach....Gosh do I love the way the author really actualised these 2. So different yet the guilt they carry is like a boil about to erupt, is equally strong, their desire for acceptance, palpable. Both incredibly naive but both wanting a better way than violence. Both their lives, based on lies, nearly shattered them when the truth came out, this truth more deadly than the king's soldiers, more deadly than the Ravagers.
I loved loved loved Idalia and Kadris! Whereas Idalia is all warmth and acceptance, Kadris is all snark and disdain but I did love his attitude, even though Derron dispaired, "his bond with Kadris feel less like finding a missing piece and more like being shackled to a hostile force". Jessica wrung this out splendidly, giving the bonds credibility and realism. Not only with Idalia and Kadris but with the very cool Cody and Janna. As their eyes are opened, so too are mine and heck they very soon were as wide as saucers! The explicit characterisation is excellent, real. Such cool characters! But oh I don't like Janelle and Veralin, not one bit! But that's the point isn't it, and Jessica got me loathing them right from the start. Her excellent penmanship caught me up in the revulsion of these two, and a few others, just as I was caught up rooting for some. Some came out of the woodwork, like Linette, who surprised the socks off me! See? Twists!!!!
Incredibly intensely dramatic scenes, tense, gut churning from the start, escalating in tempo as the story progresses. The twists started out slowly, unexpectedly, then wham! They wove so tight, it's a wonder I wasn't squeezed to oblivion! One bombshell after another until I was dizzy from the onslaught....Where the lines between good and bad are blurred, where doing "the wrong thing" for the right reasons is questionable. Where headstrong, hardened individuals cross the line time and again, uncaringly so, unemotionally so.
What started off as a "simple" tale of two young people, hounded for who they were, quickly became much more complex, much more elaborate. In a captivating and riveting way. Rebels, beasts and soldiers, pitted against each other. Fear, fear mongering, brutality, ruthlessness, torture, prophecy, all come to a head. I love a deliciously dark read, and this was both dark and delicious. It's really cool to see a magic that's a different type of dark, not necromancy, but a deadly power that lives in the veins, in the cells of any who bear the mark. It's a unique take on magic and what's even cooler, it's introduced at the onset but builds throughout the book. As does the world building, each block precisely placed, each block slotting in skilfully, a master builder who's finished product is beautiful to behold. And leaves me wanting more...
November 17, 2025
Loved every part from the prologue to the epilogue! Lots of action and adventure! Dual plotlines follow two young protagonists who are trying to find a place in the world where they won't be persecuted for their magical abilities. They spent their entire lives hiding in fear of being discovered. Separately, each chose to seek out others like them in a place of legends that might not even exist.
The dual plotlines keep the story moving quickly. Eventually, their paths cross during an unexpected event. Lots of twists & unpredictable events follow Derron & Raven everywhere they go. There were no spicy scenes, but there were definitely a few OMG dramatic moments that were sad and unexpected. Magical creatures with distinct personalities added depth to the story. The realm building & map are wonderful tools to draw the reader in to another place & time.
I chose a mix of listening to the audio version for part of the story while on a road trip and reading the ebook version for the rest. Both formats were good. Both narrators were interesting. The artwork on the book cover is gorgeous! This book is appropriate for ages 12-adult. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Wish List for the next book: stand alone adventures or quests (like episodes of a series) along the way to the big finale for Sky & Ash. Individual adventures that can be read or listened to in about an hour would be perfect for kids who are beginning novel readers.
The dual plotlines keep the story moving quickly. Eventually, their paths cross during an unexpected event. Lots of twists & unpredictable events follow Derron & Raven everywhere they go. There were no spicy scenes, but there were definitely a few OMG dramatic moments that were sad and unexpected. Magical creatures with distinct personalities added depth to the story. The realm building & map are wonderful tools to draw the reader in to another place & time.
I chose a mix of listening to the audio version for part of the story while on a road trip and reading the ebook version for the rest. Both formats were good. Both narrators were interesting. The artwork on the book cover is gorgeous! This book is appropriate for ages 12-adult. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series.
Wish List for the next book: stand alone adventures or quests (like episodes of a series) along the way to the big finale for Sky & Ash. Individual adventures that can be read or listened to in about an hour would be perfect for kids who are beginning novel readers.
November 8, 2025
Grab a coffee & a cozy blanket or comfy chair bc this is a journey you will want to “lock in” for. Main character development & backstory builds the anticipation of what’s to come. Not completely predictable & in some instances my hopes were realized. My righteous anger was fueled & there are a couple characters I would like to smack. I love a good map to refer to when characters travel or come from different villages etc. I typically wait for an entire series to be published bc cliffhangers make me nutty & I’m not patient lol but I broke my rule for this. I will happily re-read it when the next installment is available. Don’t get in your own way by comparing this story to others in the genre. However, I will smile & add that Kadris & Tairn would definitely see eye to eye 😉 Simply, enjoy the journey & dive into the people, the places & the awesomeness of what this author brought to life. Well done JDN.
November 26, 2025
I absolutely love this book! From the characters you want to root for, the cool magic system with an "echo" effect, to the ancient and nearly forgotten, but chilling prophecy of a bonded dragon and phoenix. If you like characters that fight for what's right (but struggle with that themselves), a grumpy/sassy dragon (a must!) and a ragtag group of friends who find allies amongst each other along the way, this book is for you!
This is the first book of a series, but it does not end on a cliff hanger. Rather a good stopping point. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!
This is the first book of a series, but it does not end on a cliff hanger. Rather a good stopping point. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in the series!
November 17, 2025
As a slow reader, some books take me forever to read, but this one I had a hard time putting down! I was hooked from the very first page! Jessica does an amazing job of drawing you in to the story, of building a world you can visualize, and creating characters that are believable and that you're cheering for the whole way. There was a lot of action, unexpected twists and turns, magic, and fantastic beasts in the book, with underdogs raising, and an ending that is good, but leaves you hungry for more. One of the best books I've read this year! I can't wait for the next book to come out!
I received a free ARC of this book and reviewed it willingly, because it's amazing!
I received a free ARC of this book and reviewed it willingly, because it's amazing!
November 14, 2025
This book is fantastic. The dichotomy of the dual perspectives of the protagonists is so good. The rotating chapters between the two is phenomenal. I cannot say too much without spoiling things, but Raven and Derron are such good characters. It is an ensemble cast of characters and change the nature of the story. 10/10. Would recommend!
November 7, 2025
I really enjoyed Each of Broken Skies. The story pulled me in quickly, and I liked how the world and characters developed as the story went on.
The ending left me wanting more. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
The ending left me wanting more. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!
November 7, 2025
Fall into a world of dragons and magic. If you love wheel of time and Eragon this book will be sure to steal your heart. I sat down and couldn’t stop reading it.
Amazing world building and intensity. The rage and frustration so well written it was tangible.. this is a must read for me
Amazing world building and intensity. The rage and frustration so well written it was tangible.. this is a must read for me
November 7, 2025
I really enjoyed this book a lot. The magic in this world was confusing at first, but it's all part of the world building. I can't wait until the next book comes out.
November 10, 2025
Love Jessica books. This one starts off fast, and quickly gets into a story line. Lots of magic, with world building, set at a fast temp pace! Can’t wait for the next book.
December 11, 2025
This is the beginning of a great series! I can't wait to see who the characters become and what happens next. I truly enjoyed this book!
December 13, 2025
I loved this book, Great read...I wish I had number 2 to read right now.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews