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Of Mountains and Seas #2
From The Depths
In the wake of a failed coup, peace comes at a cost.
A new regime enforces order by erasing the memories of every Shifter.
But Nivi remembers everything.
Immune to the memory-wiping tincture that silenced her kind, Nivi carries the weight of the past alone. Her powers set her apart, but so does the truth she can't forget. Once again, Nivi finds herself isolated from her family and friends, and something begins to fracture, within herself and within the forest of her hometown Yuras.
Strange happenings are accumulating. A road of abandoned homes in Yuras. A missing crabbing crew in Alaska. A student abduction at the local Shifter school.
With danger creeping closer and reality unraveling for both Shifters and Statics, will the fight for what's been lost be worth unearthing truths they fear?
Book 2 of the Of Mountains And Seas series, a multigenerational urban fantasy and mystery.
A new regime enforces order by erasing the memories of every Shifter.
But Nivi remembers everything.
Immune to the memory-wiping tincture that silenced her kind, Nivi carries the weight of the past alone. Her powers set her apart, but so does the truth she can't forget. Once again, Nivi finds herself isolated from her family and friends, and something begins to fracture, within herself and within the forest of her hometown Yuras.
Strange happenings are accumulating. A road of abandoned homes in Yuras. A missing crabbing crew in Alaska. A student abduction at the local Shifter school.
With danger creeping closer and reality unraveling for both Shifters and Statics, will the fight for what's been lost be worth unearthing truths they fear?
Book 2 of the Of Mountains And Seas series, a multigenerational urban fantasy and mystery.
- GenresFantasy
387 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2026
About the author
Emily Renk Hawthorne
2 books71 followersEmily Renk Hawthorne is a dentist who works with underserved populations and the author of the fantasy duology Of Mountains and Seas.
Emily grew up in Southern California and now resides on the Central Coast with her husband and child.
Emily grew up in Southern California and now resides on the Central Coast with her husband and child.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 9, 2026
4 – 4.5 stars
From the Depths takes everything Emily Renk Hawthorne built in Of Mountains and Seas and says, “What if we cracked it open, poured in more danger, more mystery, more heartbreak, and then set the whole thing on fire?” This sequel is darker, heavier, more ambitious — and it works.
Nivi is the beating heart of this book, and she is carrying the weight of an entire world on her back. The new regime wipes the memories of every Shifter, erasing history like it’s an inconvenience — but Nivi remembers. Every detail. Every loss. Every betrayal. Every truth no one else can bear. She’s immune to the tincture, but that immunity is a curse as much as a gift. She’s isolated again, cut off from her family, her community, her past, and even herself. You can feel the fracture lines forming in her — in her mind, in her magic, in the forest of Yuras itself.
And the forest? Oh, the forest is alive in this book. Watching. Withholding. Cracking at the edges. Something is wrong in Yuras, and Emily writes it with that creeping, atmospheric dread that makes you feel like the trees are listening.
Then the disappearances start.
A road of abandoned homes.
A missing crabbing crew in Alaska.
A student snatched from the Shifter school.
The world is unraveling thread by thread, and Nivi is the only one who can see the pattern forming. The stakes feel bigger, the danger closer, the mystery deeper. It’s urban fantasy, yes, but it’s also a political thriller, a family saga, a supernatural mystery, and a character study of a girl who refuses to break even when everything around her is splintering.
Emily’s writing has levelled up — the timelines, the lore, the emotional beats, the tension. She’s weaving something intricate here, something that spans generations and continents and mythologies. And she’s not afraid to let things get messy. Or painful. Or strange. That’s what makes it compelling.
So why 4 to 4.5 stars?
Because it’s rich. Dense. A lot to hold in your hands at once. Not in a bad way — in a “this is a whole multigenerational epic disguised as an urban fantasy sequel” way. You have to commit. You have to let it swallow you. But once you do, it rewards you with a story that feels bigger than the page count, bigger than the genre, bigger than the characters themselves.
A dark, layered, emotionally charged continuation of a series that’s clearly building toward something massive. Nivi shines. The world deepens. The danger sharpens. And the mysteries lurking beneath the surface are only getting hungrier.
Well done, Emily — again.
From the Depths takes everything Emily Renk Hawthorne built in Of Mountains and Seas and says, “What if we cracked it open, poured in more danger, more mystery, more heartbreak, and then set the whole thing on fire?” This sequel is darker, heavier, more ambitious — and it works.
Nivi is the beating heart of this book, and she is carrying the weight of an entire world on her back. The new regime wipes the memories of every Shifter, erasing history like it’s an inconvenience — but Nivi remembers. Every detail. Every loss. Every betrayal. Every truth no one else can bear. She’s immune to the tincture, but that immunity is a curse as much as a gift. She’s isolated again, cut off from her family, her community, her past, and even herself. You can feel the fracture lines forming in her — in her mind, in her magic, in the forest of Yuras itself.
And the forest? Oh, the forest is alive in this book. Watching. Withholding. Cracking at the edges. Something is wrong in Yuras, and Emily writes it with that creeping, atmospheric dread that makes you feel like the trees are listening.
Then the disappearances start.
A road of abandoned homes.
A missing crabbing crew in Alaska.
A student snatched from the Shifter school.
The world is unraveling thread by thread, and Nivi is the only one who can see the pattern forming. The stakes feel bigger, the danger closer, the mystery deeper. It’s urban fantasy, yes, but it’s also a political thriller, a family saga, a supernatural mystery, and a character study of a girl who refuses to break even when everything around her is splintering.
Emily’s writing has levelled up — the timelines, the lore, the emotional beats, the tension. She’s weaving something intricate here, something that spans generations and continents and mythologies. And she’s not afraid to let things get messy. Or painful. Or strange. That’s what makes it compelling.
So why 4 to 4.5 stars?
Because it’s rich. Dense. A lot to hold in your hands at once. Not in a bad way — in a “this is a whole multigenerational epic disguised as an urban fantasy sequel” way. You have to commit. You have to let it swallow you. But once you do, it rewards you with a story that feels bigger than the page count, bigger than the genre, bigger than the characters themselves.
A dark, layered, emotionally charged continuation of a series that’s clearly building toward something massive. Nivi shines. The world deepens. The danger sharpens. And the mysteries lurking beneath the surface are only getting hungrier.
Well done, Emily — again.
July 30, 2026
The sequel to Of Mountains and Seas begins shortly after book one ends. The regime has wiped the memories of everyone but Nivi, she remembers everything. Bizarre things are happening in the forest near home and across multiple other locations but she seems to be the only one recognizing how dire the situation has become. Her relationships are tested and tensions are high.
This book had so much action and a ton of turns. The story went in so many different directions yet everything connected back together nicely with Nivi being the strongest character. This world is so unique and the themes are incredibly relevant to today’s world. There was never a dull moment!
Thank you so much to Emily for providing this physical arc. This published on June 9th. This is my honest review.
This book had so much action and a ton of turns. The story went in so many different directions yet everything connected back together nicely with Nivi being the strongest character. This world is so unique and the themes are incredibly relevant to today’s world. There was never a dull moment!
Thank you so much to Emily for providing this physical arc. This published on June 9th. This is my honest review.
June 10, 2026
Omg I have been IMPATIENTLY waiting for this book and happy to say it delivered everything I hoped it would! So so good !! The shifters versus the statics and the corrupt government and environmental turmoil due to power imbalance!! And did I mention the shifters ? Like there’s a dragon or two in there! It’s such a cool world!
July 22, 2026
This was such a good sequel to Emily Renk Hawthrone’s debut novel!
There was an added mystery element to this book that made it so addicting & fun. I love the way the story progressed and how all the characters developed. A super fun fantasy rich with Chinese mythology and diverse characters. This was a great read!
There was an added mystery element to this book that made it so addicting & fun. I love the way the story progressed and how all the characters developed. A super fun fantasy rich with Chinese mythology and diverse characters. This was a great read!
June 14, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
From the Depths pulled me right back into this world and refused to let go.
This sequel takes everything I loved about book one and cranks it up a notch. The mystery is bigger, the stakes are higher, and the emotional weight hits even harder. Watching Nivi navigate a world where everyone else has forgotten while she's left carrying the truth was both heartbreaking and fascinating.
I absolutely loved how all the different POVs and timelines slowly came together. At first it feels like you're collecting scattered puzzle pieces, but once everything starts clicking into place, it is impossible to stop reading. Every revelation uncovered another layer of the mystery, and I was constantly trying to connect the dots.
The blend of mythology, magic, politics, and real-world themes gave the story so much depth without ever losing the sense of adventure. The shifter world felt even richer this time around, and I loved seeing how much the characters grew after everything they endured in book one.
Emily Renk Hawthorne has created a story that is equal parts fantasy, mystery, and emotional journey. By the time I reached the final page, I wasn't ready to leave these characters behind. If you enjoy multi-POV fantasy with layered mysteries, unique magic, and characters you can't help but root for, this series deserves a spot on your TBR.
From the Depths pulled me right back into this world and refused to let go.
This sequel takes everything I loved about book one and cranks it up a notch. The mystery is bigger, the stakes are higher, and the emotional weight hits even harder. Watching Nivi navigate a world where everyone else has forgotten while she's left carrying the truth was both heartbreaking and fascinating.
I absolutely loved how all the different POVs and timelines slowly came together. At first it feels like you're collecting scattered puzzle pieces, but once everything starts clicking into place, it is impossible to stop reading. Every revelation uncovered another layer of the mystery, and I was constantly trying to connect the dots.
The blend of mythology, magic, politics, and real-world themes gave the story so much depth without ever losing the sense of adventure. The shifter world felt even richer this time around, and I loved seeing how much the characters grew after everything they endured in book one.
Emily Renk Hawthorne has created a story that is equal parts fantasy, mystery, and emotional journey. By the time I reached the final page, I wasn't ready to leave these characters behind. If you enjoy multi-POV fantasy with layered mysteries, unique magic, and characters you can't help but root for, this series deserves a spot on your TBR.
July 20, 2026
'From the Depths' continues the story that starts in 'Of Mountains and Seas', and you really do need to read it to comprehend the story fully.
Nivi is still at the heart of the story, with her ability to resist the memory-wiping tincture that has been used by the powers that be to keep the shifter community under control and unaware of their abilities. This ability is both a blessing and a curse as she struggles to find her place in society.
Once again there are many viewpoints and timelines but each piece is like a puzzle slowly forming a complete picture.
There is an emotional depth to the story, alongside political intrigue and redemption character arcs, which keeps you involved in the story - you HAVE to know what happens next!
The duology comes to a satisfying conclusion, but it would be interesting to come back in several years time to see how things are progressing.
Nivi is still at the heart of the story, with her ability to resist the memory-wiping tincture that has been used by the powers that be to keep the shifter community under control and unaware of their abilities. This ability is both a blessing and a curse as she struggles to find her place in society.
Once again there are many viewpoints and timelines but each piece is like a puzzle slowly forming a complete picture.
There is an emotional depth to the story, alongside political intrigue and redemption character arcs, which keeps you involved in the story - you HAVE to know what happens next!
The duology comes to a satisfying conclusion, but it would be interesting to come back in several years time to see how things are progressing.
August 11, 2026
Such an adventurous fantasy ya book!
I love the multi timeline/ perspective chapters of the book! Each character had their own unique story that was very memorable! With book like these, I’m always scared of forgetting characters,but I didn’t have that issue at all!
The world building is easy to follow and the character development is evident! Especially with our main characters.
The world between Statics(humans,people with no powers) and Shifters (people who can shift to mythical creatures and have powers) are so close yet so far apart.
Amber and Arav’s stories stuck out to me. Amber was a static with an ordinary life, Arav has a static dad that was a part of the shifter hunting group of ‘monster hunters’. His mom was dead and Arav knew it wasn’t an ordinary death. Even worse, he was also a shifter . These two dated at the start,yet their relationship ended when Arav ‘went missing’ and was secretly taken to shifter jail. Their relationship at the end was bitter sweet as they had to live in separate worlds,they had friends from their own kinds,political integration disputes separated the two kinds. Arav had moved on, and Amber knew that sometimes,loving someone means left them go.
Arav’s life went from hating shifters, to being stuck in a prison and finding out he was one in a matter of days. He learnt everything about shifters while in prison and watched everything unfold. My most memorable part was when he found out who killed his mother,yet he couldn’t kill them’ to spilling the beans here!). Amber had to use her (accidentally stolen) powers from Meng to hold him down. This scene really shows his love for his family!
Meng and Ling were a very cute couple. Po po of Nivi, their magic were really useful, especially when you need a gigantic dragon as a get away vehicle!
Nivi was an incredible character. Friends with Amber and Arav, Nivi got shipped to shifter school and went ‘missing ‘ to her the both static friends. Her dad was ‘gone’ and she knew it was no ordinary death. Nivi had the power to nullify magic. When the chairperson Ariana used Oblivion tincture massly to change the memories of people who’ve seen ‘things they shouldn’t have’ she changed their identities and memories to erase the damage from their memories. Nivi however, wasn’t affected and could even nulify the OT placed on others. But precisely because of this, she didn’t want to fit in at school,not when she knew the truth,not when the things she believed in could harm her mom if the OT policie knew. Her mum Ji was the school nurse and could heal anything in seconds. She was a loving woman Nivi couldn’t risk endangering. Nivi was alone until she met Ai and Jorge,who both were suspious of the OT police and were pro static and shifter integration. The helped her gain more information and were amazing friends!
Iris and Davis are like the dark forbidden age gap romance. Tied to a mess together and basically the whole reason why our main characters’ families got separated and the collapse of the whole government,these two are surprisingly the most lore packed,grey area characters.
Davis was born a Static to Shifter parents, he spent his whole childhood trying to prove he was worthy of love to a family that would never love him. When his father died, that haunting,taunting voice never got buried and instead constantly stirred up Davis’s head. Davis stole powers to strengthen himself,with the help of Iris, he had it all, until he didn’t. They both fell in the ocean and everyone thought they died.
Davis secretly led Static and shifter integration movements in secret and Iris tried to find him and returned all the powers he had stolen. The stolen powers rested a power imbalance which led to crazy silver pools that either stole your power or consumed you whole.
Iris was an amazing character, she restored the powers to their rightful owners as much as she could. With the help of the Crabby Lady Crew(just read the book), she was basically unstoppable.
Yep no matter what these two went through, that spark was there, Iris admired Davis and THAT chapter🤭 was amazing (iykyk).
My complaint is that the pacing was not as gripping as other stories to me and sometimes the word phrasing can be weird. Though these are just personal preferences and you may not have the same reaction!
Overall, I recommend those who want a break from intense fantasy reads and just want a wholesome fantasy adventure
I love the multi timeline/ perspective chapters of the book! Each character had their own unique story that was very memorable! With book like these, I’m always scared of forgetting characters,but I didn’t have that issue at all!
The world building is easy to follow and the character development is evident! Especially with our main characters.
The world between Statics(humans,people with no powers) and Shifters (people who can shift to mythical creatures and have powers) are so close yet so far apart.
Amber and Arav’s stories stuck out to me. Amber was a static with an ordinary life, Arav has a static dad that was a part of the shifter hunting group of ‘monster hunters’. His mom was dead and Arav knew it wasn’t an ordinary death. Even worse, he was also a shifter . These two dated at the start,yet their relationship ended when Arav ‘went missing’ and was secretly taken to shifter jail. Their relationship at the end was bitter sweet as they had to live in separate worlds,they had friends from their own kinds,political integration disputes separated the two kinds. Arav had moved on, and Amber knew that sometimes,loving someone means left them go.
Arav’s life went from hating shifters, to being stuck in a prison and finding out he was one in a matter of days. He learnt everything about shifters while in prison and watched everything unfold. My most memorable part was when he found out who killed his mother,yet he couldn’t kill them’ to spilling the beans here!). Amber had to use her (accidentally stolen) powers from Meng to hold him down. This scene really shows his love for his family!
Meng and Ling were a very cute couple. Po po of Nivi, their magic were really useful, especially when you need a gigantic dragon as a get away vehicle!
Nivi was an incredible character. Friends with Amber and Arav, Nivi got shipped to shifter school and went ‘missing ‘ to her the both static friends. Her dad was ‘gone’ and she knew it was no ordinary death. Nivi had the power to nullify magic. When the chairperson Ariana used Oblivion tincture massly to change the memories of people who’ve seen ‘things they shouldn’t have’ she changed their identities and memories to erase the damage from their memories. Nivi however, wasn’t affected and could even nulify the OT placed on others. But precisely because of this, she didn’t want to fit in at school,not when she knew the truth,not when the things she believed in could harm her mom if the OT policie knew. Her mum Ji was the school nurse and could heal anything in seconds. She was a loving woman Nivi couldn’t risk endangering. Nivi was alone until she met Ai and Jorge,who both were suspious of the OT police and were pro static and shifter integration. The helped her gain more information and were amazing friends!
Iris and Davis are like the dark forbidden age gap romance. Tied to a mess together and basically the whole reason why our main characters’ families got separated and the collapse of the whole government,these two are surprisingly the most lore packed,grey area characters.
Davis was born a Static to Shifter parents, he spent his whole childhood trying to prove he was worthy of love to a family that would never love him. When his father died, that haunting,taunting voice never got buried and instead constantly stirred up Davis’s head. Davis stole powers to strengthen himself,with the help of Iris, he had it all, until he didn’t. They both fell in the ocean and everyone thought they died.
Davis secretly led Static and shifter integration movements in secret and Iris tried to find him and returned all the powers he had stolen. The stolen powers rested a power imbalance which led to crazy silver pools that either stole your power or consumed you whole.
Iris was an amazing character, she restored the powers to their rightful owners as much as she could. With the help of the Crabby Lady Crew(just read the book), she was basically unstoppable.
Yep no matter what these two went through, that spark was there, Iris admired Davis and THAT chapter🤭 was amazing (iykyk).
My complaint is that the pacing was not as gripping as other stories to me and sometimes the word phrasing can be weird. Though these are just personal preferences and you may not have the same reaction!
Overall, I recommend those who want a break from intense fantasy reads and just want a wholesome fantasy adventure
June 9, 2026
Emily Renk Hawthorne returns to the world of Of Mountains and Seas with a sequel that expands the mystery, deepens the emotional stakes, and explores what happens when an entire community loses its memories—but one person remembers everything.
After the events of the first book, a new regime has imposed peace through control. Every Shifter has been stripped of their memories, leaving the past buried and dangerous truths forgotten. Everyone except Nivi.
Carrying the weight of knowledge alone, Nivi becomes one of the most compelling aspects of this story. Watching her navigate isolation, grief, responsibility, and the burden of remembering what no one else can was both heartbreaking and fascinating. Hawthorne does an excellent job portraying the loneliness that comes with being the sole keeper of truth.
What I continue to appreciate most about this series is its ambition. This isn't a straightforward urban fantasy. It blends mystery, political intrigue, mythology, family drama, and social commentary into a layered narrative that rewards readers who enjoy piecing together clues. Strange disappearances, abandoned homes, missing students, and unsettling shifts in reality create a constant sense of unease that kept me turning pages.
The worldbuilding also continues to shine. Inspired by Chinese mythology and shaped through a distinctly modern setting, the series offers something refreshingly different from many urban fantasies currently on the market. The exploration of conformity, identity, memory, and generational trauma adds depth to the story beyond the central mystery.
Nivi remained my favorite character throughout this installment. Her emotional journey feels authentic, and her struggles are often as gripping as the larger plot. The mystery surrounding Yuras and the growing fractures within reality kept me invested from beginning to end.
Readers looking for fast-paced action on every page may find the story takes its time, but those who enjoy character-driven fantasy mysteries with rich themes and interconnected storylines will likely find a lot to love here.
*From the Depths* successfully builds upon the foundation established in Book One while raising new questions and expanding the scope of the series. It's a thoughtful, atmospheric sequel that left me eager to discover where the story goes next.
⭐ Rating: 4 Stars
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
✨ Chinese mythology-inspired fantasy
✨ Multi-generational storytelling
✨ Urban fantasy mysteries
✨ Political intrigue
✨ Found family themes
✨ Complex character journeys
✨ Multiple POV narratives
After the events of the first book, a new regime has imposed peace through control. Every Shifter has been stripped of their memories, leaving the past buried and dangerous truths forgotten. Everyone except Nivi.
Carrying the weight of knowledge alone, Nivi becomes one of the most compelling aspects of this story. Watching her navigate isolation, grief, responsibility, and the burden of remembering what no one else can was both heartbreaking and fascinating. Hawthorne does an excellent job portraying the loneliness that comes with being the sole keeper of truth.
What I continue to appreciate most about this series is its ambition. This isn't a straightforward urban fantasy. It blends mystery, political intrigue, mythology, family drama, and social commentary into a layered narrative that rewards readers who enjoy piecing together clues. Strange disappearances, abandoned homes, missing students, and unsettling shifts in reality create a constant sense of unease that kept me turning pages.
The worldbuilding also continues to shine. Inspired by Chinese mythology and shaped through a distinctly modern setting, the series offers something refreshingly different from many urban fantasies currently on the market. The exploration of conformity, identity, memory, and generational trauma adds depth to the story beyond the central mystery.
Nivi remained my favorite character throughout this installment. Her emotional journey feels authentic, and her struggles are often as gripping as the larger plot. The mystery surrounding Yuras and the growing fractures within reality kept me invested from beginning to end.
Readers looking for fast-paced action on every page may find the story takes its time, but those who enjoy character-driven fantasy mysteries with rich themes and interconnected storylines will likely find a lot to love here.
*From the Depths* successfully builds upon the foundation established in Book One while raising new questions and expanding the scope of the series. It's a thoughtful, atmospheric sequel that left me eager to discover where the story goes next.
⭐ Rating: 4 Stars
Perfect for readers who enjoy:
✨ Chinese mythology-inspired fantasy
✨ Multi-generational storytelling
✨ Urban fantasy mysteries
✨ Political intrigue
✨ Found family themes
✨ Complex character journeys
✨ Multiple POV narratives
June 11, 2026
From the Depths picks up shortly after the first book and throws you right back into the chaos. This time, every Shifter has had their memories erased by the new regime except for Nivi, who remembers absolutely everything. Every bad thing. Every secret. Every loss. And honestly? Watching her carry all of that alone was one of the strongest parts of the book for me. Nivi really shines here. In the first book she felt quieter and more unsure of herself, but here she steps into a bigger role while still struggling with grief, isolation, and the pressure of knowing things no one else does. You can feel how lonely she is throughout the story, and it made her really easy to connect with.
The atmosphere in this book was so good too. Yuras feels alive in a creepy, unsettling way, like something is constantly watching from the trees. There is this ongoing feeling that something is deeply wrong, and the strange disappearances only make that tension stronger. Missing students, abandoned homes, people vanishing without explanation... It kept me wanting to know what was really happening.
One thing I continue to love about this series is how different it feels from a lot of urban fantasy books. It mixes mythology, politics, mystery, family drama, and social issues together without losing the fantasy element. The worldbuilding is inspired by Chinese mythology, which makes the series stand out even more.
I also liked seeing the character growth in this one. A lot of the story focuses on forgiveness, trauma, and learning to move forward after everything that happened in book one. The newer characters added a lot to the story too. Honestly, I had some trouble connecting with the characters in the first book. I did not seem to have this problem this time around.
The writing itself felt stronger this time around. There are a lot of characters and multiple points of view, but it never became too difficult to follow. Everything slowly connects together like pieces of a puzzle.
That said, this is definitely a slower and more layered fantasy. There is a lot going on at once. Sometimes it felt a little dense, especially with all the different storylines and perspectives. But if you enjoy character driven fantasy with mystery, deeper themes, and detailed worldbuilding, there is a lot to appreciate here.
The atmosphere in this book was so good too. Yuras feels alive in a creepy, unsettling way, like something is constantly watching from the trees. There is this ongoing feeling that something is deeply wrong, and the strange disappearances only make that tension stronger. Missing students, abandoned homes, people vanishing without explanation... It kept me wanting to know what was really happening.
One thing I continue to love about this series is how different it feels from a lot of urban fantasy books. It mixes mythology, politics, mystery, family drama, and social issues together without losing the fantasy element. The worldbuilding is inspired by Chinese mythology, which makes the series stand out even more.
I also liked seeing the character growth in this one. A lot of the story focuses on forgiveness, trauma, and learning to move forward after everything that happened in book one. The newer characters added a lot to the story too. Honestly, I had some trouble connecting with the characters in the first book. I did not seem to have this problem this time around.
The writing itself felt stronger this time around. There are a lot of characters and multiple points of view, but it never became too difficult to follow. Everything slowly connects together like pieces of a puzzle.
That said, this is definitely a slower and more layered fantasy. There is a lot going on at once. Sometimes it felt a little dense, especially with all the different storylines and perspectives. But if you enjoy character driven fantasy with mystery, deeper themes, and detailed worldbuilding, there is a lot to appreciate here.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An absolute masterpiece!
I finished the first 50% of the book in one sitting and wanted to keep reading, but it was 3 a.m. so I begrudgingly kept it aside, woke up early in the morning and completed it. Then it took me a whole day to accept that the story was over, and it was time to let go of the characters.
Book 2 picked up right where 1 ended, just a few months later. While the first book focused on the negative traits of the characters, this one was more about forgiveness and redemption. Instead of having a character as the villain, it highlighted the aftermath of all the wrongs committed by Davis, and the characters collectively strived to set things right.
I liked that each character went through some form of development in their personality. Nivi changed from the shy and quiet girl to someone at the forefront in promoting the static-shifter integration. Amber moved towards self-discovery, while Arav and his father learned to let go of their prejudice towards the "monsters". The introduction of the new characters also enhanced the story. I particularly liked Ai with their straightforward attitude and sharp mind.
I can't imagine how challenging it must have been to write this book as there were so many characters doing different things simultaneously. There was also going back and forth in the same scene but from different perspectives. To keep things interesting in such cases while also including important details must have been tough, and yet the author did a brilliant job.
The worldbuilding was already explained well in the previous book, and this one showed the changing realities and how people were learning to adapt to it.
The book gave a lesson on the effects of mental trauma and how it shapes a person, and the need to let go of the past lest it destroys everything around you.
While I wasn't very happy with the fate of one of the characters, I was immensely satisfied with the way things ended for the others. Overall, this is a well written book with some interesting revelations. I recommend it to all fantasy lovers who want to read a book inspired by Chinese mythology with unique shapeshifters and magical abilities.
I finished the first 50% of the book in one sitting and wanted to keep reading, but it was 3 a.m. so I begrudgingly kept it aside, woke up early in the morning and completed it. Then it took me a whole day to accept that the story was over, and it was time to let go of the characters.
Book 2 picked up right where 1 ended, just a few months later. While the first book focused on the negative traits of the characters, this one was more about forgiveness and redemption. Instead of having a character as the villain, it highlighted the aftermath of all the wrongs committed by Davis, and the characters collectively strived to set things right.
I liked that each character went through some form of development in their personality. Nivi changed from the shy and quiet girl to someone at the forefront in promoting the static-shifter integration. Amber moved towards self-discovery, while Arav and his father learned to let go of their prejudice towards the "monsters". The introduction of the new characters also enhanced the story. I particularly liked Ai with their straightforward attitude and sharp mind.
I can't imagine how challenging it must have been to write this book as there were so many characters doing different things simultaneously. There was also going back and forth in the same scene but from different perspectives. To keep things interesting in such cases while also including important details must have been tough, and yet the author did a brilliant job.
The worldbuilding was already explained well in the previous book, and this one showed the changing realities and how people were learning to adapt to it.
The book gave a lesson on the effects of mental trauma and how it shapes a person, and the need to let go of the past lest it destroys everything around you.
While I wasn't very happy with the fate of one of the characters, I was immensely satisfied with the way things ended for the others. Overall, this is a well written book with some interesting revelations. I recommend it to all fantasy lovers who want to read a book inspired by Chinese mythology with unique shapeshifters and magical abilities.
July 17, 2026
4.5
Still reeling from the coup that nearly threatened the shapeshifter world, peace and safety for people with these powers have come at a cost - use of oblivion tincture. With the memories of her loved ones erased and modified, Nivi is the only one who still knows the truth, seeing the terrible events that are unfolding around her for what they are: a desperate attempt to keep shifters and statics separate. But something is growing in power that threatens shifters and statics alike, something that is rising from the depths.
Really loved this instalment in the Of Mountains and Seas series. It was a great continuation of the story and added so much to the already magical world that Hawthorne had created. As before, Hawthorne masterfully writes characters in a deeply human and heartfelt way, and you can’t help but grow connected to them. One of the things I absolutely adore about both the first book and this instalment is the way Hawthorne absolutely nails ‘shades of grey’ in her characters. There were characters who I didn’t like, and whose actions I could not condone, but who I ended up feeling sorry for.
As I’ve said, the world Hawthorne has created is just so wonderful and so unique; I was honestly gutted when the story came to an end. The writing and descriptions are just so lush that you are genuinely transported; it honestly took me a moment to land when I finished the last page.
As always, I love Nivi, but I think in this instalment I was completely captivated by Arav and his journey. The whole arc that he goes on in this book was just so interesting to me, really delving into how hurt can shape who we become, and what we choose to believe, and how letting go of that hatred can be harder than holding onto it. I really loved his character and the things he learnt about himself. Obviously, there are so many characters I could talk about, but I don’t want to ruin anything by going into too much detail.
This was such a wonderful read, and I recommend both this and the first instalment - of mountains and seas. They are great fantasy books written with such heart and an honestly bountiful imagination. You will not be disappointed.
Still reeling from the coup that nearly threatened the shapeshifter world, peace and safety for people with these powers have come at a cost - use of oblivion tincture. With the memories of her loved ones erased and modified, Nivi is the only one who still knows the truth, seeing the terrible events that are unfolding around her for what they are: a desperate attempt to keep shifters and statics separate. But something is growing in power that threatens shifters and statics alike, something that is rising from the depths.
Really loved this instalment in the Of Mountains and Seas series. It was a great continuation of the story and added so much to the already magical world that Hawthorne had created. As before, Hawthorne masterfully writes characters in a deeply human and heartfelt way, and you can’t help but grow connected to them. One of the things I absolutely adore about both the first book and this instalment is the way Hawthorne absolutely nails ‘shades of grey’ in her characters. There were characters who I didn’t like, and whose actions I could not condone, but who I ended up feeling sorry for.
As I’ve said, the world Hawthorne has created is just so wonderful and so unique; I was honestly gutted when the story came to an end. The writing and descriptions are just so lush that you are genuinely transported; it honestly took me a moment to land when I finished the last page.
As always, I love Nivi, but I think in this instalment I was completely captivated by Arav and his journey. The whole arc that he goes on in this book was just so interesting to me, really delving into how hurt can shape who we become, and what we choose to believe, and how letting go of that hatred can be harder than holding onto it. I really loved his character and the things he learnt about himself. Obviously, there are so many characters I could talk about, but I don’t want to ruin anything by going into too much detail.
This was such a wonderful read, and I recommend both this and the first instalment - of mountains and seas. They are great fantasy books written with such heart and an honestly bountiful imagination. You will not be disappointed.
June 9, 2026
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙞𝙨𝙣'𝙩 𝙞𝙩? 𝙋𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙛𝙨, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢.”
Societal division and it's consequences always bring some dire differences among people. This concept is explored in “𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩𝘴” very carefully.
' From the depths' is the sequel to ”𝘖𝘧 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘴” that picks right after where the first book left off. A few new characters and previous ones come together here in story to present the aftermath of previous book.
I loved the world building in this one as well, the plot has mystery and deep lore to keep you occupied. The multiple pov in each chapter provides different angles and perceptive to the whole plot - each character holds a tiny piece of the story-and when they come together- it feels like solving a puzzle.
I loved the writing style, it had been a while since I read first book yet surprisingly I was able to connect with characters again and writing is so rich, simple and fluent that I had no trouble catching upto the intricate plot. What really stood out to me in this book as well as series is that how beautifully each character is created, with depth and motives while also keeping the storyline clean and YA friendly. I loved Jorge and Ai' s character and their friendship with Nivi . It was heartwarming to see, other characters also found their redemption and clarity in life. Reading the epilogue, I wonder if there would be next book because I would love to see Nivi opening up more.
Immersive world building, lovable characters - a wide range of diverse cast where mystery, urban fantasy, mythology and societal difference, politics blend splendidly to create a rich magical story.
Overall, It's a plot driven fantasy with a well written characters and a multi generational mystery. if you enjoy clean fantasy books, shapeshifters, friendships and diverse range of characters with simple writing, then this one is good to go.
Societal division and it's consequences always bring some dire differences among people. This concept is explored in “𝘍𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘩𝘴” very carefully.
' From the depths' is the sequel to ”𝘖𝘧 𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘦𝘢𝘴” that picks right after where the first book left off. A few new characters and previous ones come together here in story to present the aftermath of previous book.
I loved the world building in this one as well, the plot has mystery and deep lore to keep you occupied. The multiple pov in each chapter provides different angles and perceptive to the whole plot - each character holds a tiny piece of the story-and when they come together- it feels like solving a puzzle.
I loved the writing style, it had been a while since I read first book yet surprisingly I was able to connect with characters again and writing is so rich, simple and fluent that I had no trouble catching upto the intricate plot. What really stood out to me in this book as well as series is that how beautifully each character is created, with depth and motives while also keeping the storyline clean and YA friendly. I loved Jorge and Ai' s character and their friendship with Nivi . It was heartwarming to see, other characters also found their redemption and clarity in life. Reading the epilogue, I wonder if there would be next book because I would love to see Nivi opening up more.
Immersive world building, lovable characters - a wide range of diverse cast where mystery, urban fantasy, mythology and societal difference, politics blend splendidly to create a rich magical story.
Overall, It's a plot driven fantasy with a well written characters and a multi generational mystery. if you enjoy clean fantasy books, shapeshifters, friendships and diverse range of characters with simple writing, then this one is good to go.
June 11, 2026
4 Stars
From the Depths is the second book in the Of Mountains and Seas series by Emily Renk Hawthorne. It continues the story that started in the first book – the multi-generational tale is full of fantasy, family/found family, politics, intrigue, mythology, cultural elements, shifters, complex world-building, drama, mystery, action, and much more. Again, I feel the story is more suited to a YA audience, but I am WAY older than that and I still enjoyed reading this book/s.
Again, as with the first book, this pulled me into a richly imagined fantasy that blends political intrigue, moral complexity, and a touch of the mystical. Set in the aftermath of a failed coup, the story explores the fragile peace enforced by a chilling tactic - the erasure of every Shifter’s memories.
At the heart of the novel is Nivi, the FMC who is vulnerable and yet still formidable. She’s immune to the memory-wiping tincture, and so she becomes the sole keeper of her people’s history which is a burden that isolates her even as it empowers her. Ms. Hawthorne crafts Nivi’s journey with emotional depth, balancing her inner turmoil with moments of fierce determination.
This book is a thought-provoking, atmospheric fantasy that would appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with moral weight and a touch of the surreal. It’s not just about magic - it’s about what we choose to remember, and what we risk when we refuse to forget.
Happy Reading…
From the Depths is the second book in the Of Mountains and Seas series by Emily Renk Hawthorne. It continues the story that started in the first book – the multi-generational tale is full of fantasy, family/found family, politics, intrigue, mythology, cultural elements, shifters, complex world-building, drama, mystery, action, and much more. Again, I feel the story is more suited to a YA audience, but I am WAY older than that and I still enjoyed reading this book/s.
Again, as with the first book, this pulled me into a richly imagined fantasy that blends political intrigue, moral complexity, and a touch of the mystical. Set in the aftermath of a failed coup, the story explores the fragile peace enforced by a chilling tactic - the erasure of every Shifter’s memories.
At the heart of the novel is Nivi, the FMC who is vulnerable and yet still formidable. She’s immune to the memory-wiping tincture, and so she becomes the sole keeper of her people’s history which is a burden that isolates her even as it empowers her. Ms. Hawthorne crafts Nivi’s journey with emotional depth, balancing her inner turmoil with moments of fierce determination.
This book is a thought-provoking, atmospheric fantasy that would appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with moral weight and a touch of the surreal. It’s not just about magic - it’s about what we choose to remember, and what we risk when we refuse to forget.
Happy Reading…
July 2, 2026
After thoroughly enjoying Of Mountains and Seas, I couldn't wait to return to Emily Renk Hawthorne's beautifully crafted world in From the Depths, and it certainly did not disappoint. It was such a pleasure to revisit familiar characters while discovering new mysteries, deeper relationships, and even higher stakes.
One of the things I admire most about Emily's writing is her ability to create a rich fantasy world inspired by mythology while keeping the characters and their emotions at the heart of the story. The world-building feels immersive without becoming overwhelming, and every twist keeps me eager to see what happens next.
I especially appreciated how this sequel expands the story in meaningful ways, exploring themes of memory, identity, belonging, and the strength found in community. The suspense steadily builds, and I found myself completely invested in the characters' journeys from beginning to end.
Having now read multiple books by Emily Renk Hawthorne, I continue to be impressed by her imaginative storytelling, thoughtful character development, and ability to weave complex plots with genuine heart. If you enjoy fantasy filled with mystery, mythology, memorable characters, and emotional depth, I highly recommend From the Depths—and if you haven't yet read Of Mountains and Seas, I suggest starting there so you can fully appreciate this wonderful continuation of the series.
One of the things I admire most about Emily's writing is her ability to create a rich fantasy world inspired by mythology while keeping the characters and their emotions at the heart of the story. The world-building feels immersive without becoming overwhelming, and every twist keeps me eager to see what happens next.
I especially appreciated how this sequel expands the story in meaningful ways, exploring themes of memory, identity, belonging, and the strength found in community. The suspense steadily builds, and I found myself completely invested in the characters' journeys from beginning to end.
Having now read multiple books by Emily Renk Hawthorne, I continue to be impressed by her imaginative storytelling, thoughtful character development, and ability to weave complex plots with genuine heart. If you enjoy fantasy filled with mystery, mythology, memorable characters, and emotional depth, I highly recommend From the Depths—and if you haven't yet read Of Mountains and Seas, I suggest starting there so you can fully appreciate this wonderful continuation of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Read Time: 3hrs 25mins
Rating: 4 stars
Favorite quote: “Jorge took a deep breath before responding. His tone was gentle and kind, even if the point he made stung. “I also lost a parent and had my past erased.”
** This is an Arc Review. I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity from the author!!
This book was a really good continuation of the first one. I have to admit there were times I got a tad confused, but that was my fault. I caught up very quickly, as I now knew the characters better from the first book. There was so much information and storywriting relating to the current state of government and power. It was so interesting to see real-world politics tied into fantasy. There were a lot of different perspectives, but I think the characters all had differences in them. They all seemed so interesting and had so much depth. Not to mention the magic system was well thought out, and the author was so descriptive in her writing without it being overwhelming. Coming from California, this book really hit close to home. I would definitely want to do a reread just to spend more time in it and better understand the book and the hidden meanings within it.
I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend. If you have the opportunity to read this series, definitely do!
Rating: 4 stars
Favorite quote: “Jorge took a deep breath before responding. His tone was gentle and kind, even if the point he made stung. “I also lost a parent and had my past erased.”
** This is an Arc Review. I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity from the author!!
This book was a really good continuation of the first one. I have to admit there were times I got a tad confused, but that was my fault. I caught up very quickly, as I now knew the characters better from the first book. There was so much information and storywriting relating to the current state of government and power. It was so interesting to see real-world politics tied into fantasy. There were a lot of different perspectives, but I think the characters all had differences in them. They all seemed so interesting and had so much depth. Not to mention the magic system was well thought out, and the author was so descriptive in her writing without it being overwhelming. Coming from California, this book really hit close to home. I would definitely want to do a reread just to spend more time in it and better understand the book and the hidden meanings within it.
I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend. If you have the opportunity to read this series, definitely do!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2026
I read the first bok of the series and loved it. Emily Renk Hawthorne’s From the Depths swept me back into a world that feels both mythic and deeply human. It reminded me of why I fell in love with Hawthorne's writing in the first place. As the second book in the Of Mountains and Seas duology, it doesn’t just pick up where the first left off, it plunges you into deeper waters, both literally and emotionally. Hawthrone has the uncanny ability to take high-stakes magical conflict and intimate character moments and weaves them into a story feels real and resonated with me long after I closed the book, and I know other readers will feel the same as well. Ariana’s authority is tested in ways that reveal her vulnerabilities, while Iris and Nivi’s personal struggles add layers of tension and heart, making this book become something that digs into your heart and settle there. The imagery within this book is just -muah- chef's kiss. All the sensory elements are there and it feels as though you could actually feel the ocean. As a conclusion to the duology, From the Depths is both satisfying and bittersweet. It ties up the major arcs while leaving just enough mystery to keep the world alive in your imagination. If you enjoy fantasy that blends myth, magic, and moral complexity, this is a journey worth taking.
June 14, 2026
It is some time after Davis staged his coup and peace has settled over the shifter community, or as much peace as you can get when there is a new regime in power who are using unconventional tools to stay in control, in this case it is oblivion tincture, a liquid which can erase old memories and create new ones in its place, and there is only one person who remembers everything which had happend, Nivi.
She alone, has been able to keep her memories thanks to one of the secondary powers and it is a lonely world to be in, she keeps herself distant from her peers in school and although he mum is also there, she cannot talk to her either, so she is isolated and scared all over again.
One day though, a series of strange things start to happen within the shifter community and it seems that some things are causing cracking around the edges, people disappearing and abandoned places being revealed, so much so that the static community is starting to notice, but what is causing these occurrences?
Will Nivi be able to keep her secrets, but also figure out what is happening and why, or will she remain a lonely, isolated pariah and the secrets make themselves clear another way? This is another exciting book and with plot twists and adventure throughout, it is one you won't want to miss out on!
She alone, has been able to keep her memories thanks to one of the secondary powers and it is a lonely world to be in, she keeps herself distant from her peers in school and although he mum is also there, she cannot talk to her either, so she is isolated and scared all over again.
One day though, a series of strange things start to happen within the shifter community and it seems that some things are causing cracking around the edges, people disappearing and abandoned places being revealed, so much so that the static community is starting to notice, but what is causing these occurrences?
Will Nivi be able to keep her secrets, but also figure out what is happening and why, or will she remain a lonely, isolated pariah and the secrets make themselves clear another way? This is another exciting book and with plot twists and adventure throughout, it is one you won't want to miss out on!
July 6, 2026
Thank you for the gifted series OF MOUNTAINS AND SEAS and its sequel, FROM THE DEPTHS by @booksforwardpr. Both books by @emilyrenkhawthorne are AVAILABLE NOW. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I was pulled in immediately by the MC’s name, DAVIS! Born without magic into a political shapeshifter family, he wants to connect with his distant father. Iris is a girl with a mysterious illness that possibly keeps her from reaching her true potential. When they cross paths in a small California town, it begins a series of events that changes their fates forever.
This emotional story shifts between alternate timelines and packs a punch. Chinese mythology is blended seamlessly throughout and seeing this story from various perspectives really helps you connect with the characters. Stories about family values and self-worth always tug at my heartstrings because I love seeing unexpected heroes fight for what they deserve.
I immediately moved on to the sequel, FROM THE DEPTHS. I won’t say TOO much due to spoilers, but it’s worth the read if you enjoyed book 1.
If you are a fan of supernatural YA urban fantasy, I highly recommend picking up this series. I enjoyed getting back into the saddle to read and review it (I definitely brought this series with me to all of my events in June).
#OfMountainsAndSeas #FromTheDepths #EmilyRenkHawthorne #Bookstagram #BookReview
I was pulled in immediately by the MC’s name, DAVIS! Born without magic into a political shapeshifter family, he wants to connect with his distant father. Iris is a girl with a mysterious illness that possibly keeps her from reaching her true potential. When they cross paths in a small California town, it begins a series of events that changes their fates forever.
This emotional story shifts between alternate timelines and packs a punch. Chinese mythology is blended seamlessly throughout and seeing this story from various perspectives really helps you connect with the characters. Stories about family values and self-worth always tug at my heartstrings because I love seeing unexpected heroes fight for what they deserve.
I immediately moved on to the sequel, FROM THE DEPTHS. I won’t say TOO much due to spoilers, but it’s worth the read if you enjoyed book 1.
If you are a fan of supernatural YA urban fantasy, I highly recommend picking up this series. I enjoyed getting back into the saddle to read and review it (I definitely brought this series with me to all of my events in June).
#OfMountainsAndSeas #FromTheDepths #EmilyRenkHawthorne #Bookstagram #BookReview
July 15, 2026
Did I binge this book in less than 24 hours? Yes. Am I also devastated that this will never become a theatrical masterpiece like my brain views it as? Also VERY YES.
I don't even know how to talk about this second installment without going full spoilers. I want to discuss the strategy, the shocks, the absolute MIND BLOWING twists and turns... The shape shift figures!?!? I really want to be able to shift into a dragon now.. just saying.
Nivi is left in her world as the only one who isn't effected by the mind wipe (OT) serum and remembers absolutely everything that has happened and exactly who was responsible. Usually I struggle with dual timelines, let alone multiple as depicted in this story, but everything flowed so well together. It was all the same timeline, but you got a point of view from each important character in the story. There were very subtle sprinkles of different spectrums of the LGBTQ+ umbrella and I feel like it was approached very well, believable and respectfully.
I am not sure on feelings towards Jorge or Arav in book one, I still need to read, but the character development from these two alone kept me rooting and covering my eyes in fear the entire book. I wanted to protect these angel babies with every single turn.
Amazing first author read for me and I am really looking forward to dive into other works!!
I don't even know how to talk about this second installment without going full spoilers. I want to discuss the strategy, the shocks, the absolute MIND BLOWING twists and turns... The shape shift figures!?!? I really want to be able to shift into a dragon now.. just saying.
Nivi is left in her world as the only one who isn't effected by the mind wipe (OT) serum and remembers absolutely everything that has happened and exactly who was responsible. Usually I struggle with dual timelines, let alone multiple as depicted in this story, but everything flowed so well together. It was all the same timeline, but you got a point of view from each important character in the story. There were very subtle sprinkles of different spectrums of the LGBTQ+ umbrella and I feel like it was approached very well, believable and respectfully.
I am not sure on feelings towards Jorge or Arav in book one, I still need to read, but the character development from these two alone kept me rooting and covering my eyes in fear the entire book. I wanted to protect these angel babies with every single turn.
Amazing first author read for me and I am really looking forward to dive into other works!!
June 9, 2026
So from where to start? Am surprised! As you know Fantasy is not my favourite genre but the author is making me fall for this genre 🎀🥺 I can't put down your books seriously! Previous book, Of Mountains and Seas was amazing and I was exited for this one too. Now that I have completed reading, I can say my wait was worth totally. This book has also kept the bar of suspense, thrill high as first one. I was literally engrossed in this book. Now sharing my reading experience with you all.
From the Depths is the second book of author Emily. If you have read the first one, you are well aware of her writing and the thrilling journey into the fantasy world. The world of shapeshifter, Statics is amazing. The characters - Arav,Nivi, Iris are fabulous.
Dragon, ice,fire with thrill of fantasy have made this book more interesting.
Power battles, suspence and thrill are always present in this book. What I love about this book is the flow of writing. You will get to see lot's of character's POV . It's one of the interesting thing about the book. Reading this book through the different character's words is truely enjoyable. Characters are strong individually. You won't feel boredom reading the book.
From the Depths is the second book of author Emily. If you have read the first one, you are well aware of her writing and the thrilling journey into the fantasy world. The world of shapeshifter, Statics is amazing. The characters - Arav,Nivi, Iris are fabulous.
Dragon, ice,fire with thrill of fantasy have made this book more interesting.
Power battles, suspence and thrill are always present in this book. What I love about this book is the flow of writing. You will get to see lot's of character's POV . It's one of the interesting thing about the book. Reading this book through the different character's words is truely enjoyable. Characters are strong individually. You won't feel boredom reading the book.
June 19, 2026
The first book seriously impressed me with its ambitious story, complex characters, and expansive world building, so I went into this conclusion with pretty high expectations and it delivered!
Hawthorne manages something genuinely tricky here. This feels completely tied to the first book while also feeling like its own thing, expanding while also wrapping up loose ends. It all comes together in a way that feels so satisfying while also leaving things open for the future. If you loved the first book, this one won't let you down at all.
There are so many great characters in this series and somehow every single one of them is fantastic and fully developed. There's some fantastic, nuanced rep in here with these characters as well. The world building is just as fascinating the second time around, especially as things expand. I also really enjoyed the themes and social commentary running through the story. I was impressed at how it explores how making bad choices doesn't automatically make someone evil.
Great world building, great characters, and a conclusion that lands really well. I really loved this duology.
Thank you so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Hawthorne manages something genuinely tricky here. This feels completely tied to the first book while also feeling like its own thing, expanding while also wrapping up loose ends. It all comes together in a way that feels so satisfying while also leaving things open for the future. If you loved the first book, this one won't let you down at all.
There are so many great characters in this series and somehow every single one of them is fantastic and fully developed. There's some fantastic, nuanced rep in here with these characters as well. The world building is just as fascinating the second time around, especially as things expand. I also really enjoyed the themes and social commentary running through the story. I was impressed at how it explores how making bad choices doesn't automatically make someone evil.
Great world building, great characters, and a conclusion that lands really well. I really loved this duology.
Thank you so much to the author and R&R Booktours for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
July 20, 2026
From the Depths (Of Mountains and Seas) by Emily Renk Hawthorne.
4 of 5 Stars.
This enjoyable and engaging multigenerational urban fantasy and mystery, is book two in the ‘Of Mountains And Seas’ series. I recommend reading these in order as the storyline continues from book one. Having previously met the characters, I already felt invested in Nivi’s adventures. Following the failed coup, there is peace but it comes at a cost.
There is a new regime who are erasing each Shifter’s memories so they can enforce order. However, Nivi is immune to the memory wiping tincture and so she alone remembers everything that happened. Not only does she know the truth, but her powers also set her apart and she’s once again isolated from her friends and family.
As something within Nivi fractures so does the forest of her hometown Yuras. Strange things are happening, including a road of abandoned houses in Yuras, a student abduction at the local school for Shifters, and a missing crabbing crew in Alaska. As danger creeps ever closer, reality is unraveling for both Shifters and Statics.
Once again I was swept up in the captivating storyline, and the descriptive narrative brought the fantasy world vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the story.
4 of 5 Stars.
This enjoyable and engaging multigenerational urban fantasy and mystery, is book two in the ‘Of Mountains And Seas’ series. I recommend reading these in order as the storyline continues from book one. Having previously met the characters, I already felt invested in Nivi’s adventures. Following the failed coup, there is peace but it comes at a cost.
There is a new regime who are erasing each Shifter’s memories so they can enforce order. However, Nivi is immune to the memory wiping tincture and so she alone remembers everything that happened. Not only does she know the truth, but her powers also set her apart and she’s once again isolated from her friends and family.
As something within Nivi fractures so does the forest of her hometown Yuras. Strange things are happening, including a road of abandoned houses in Yuras, a student abduction at the local school for Shifters, and a missing crabbing crew in Alaska. As danger creeps ever closer, reality is unraveling for both Shifters and Statics.
Once again I was swept up in the captivating storyline, and the descriptive narrative brought the fantasy world vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW ★★★★★
This is book two on Of Mountains and Seas from Emily Renk Hawthorne, From the Depths.
I have said it a few times already but I am so excited to have received this ARC, and to have being able to witness an authors first book, now the arc for the second and all the magic that came along reading this books!
Emily has an amazing talent for writing about topics that are not often talked about, she talks about politics, immigration, minorities, inclusion all while taking us into this magical tale and through so many feelings!
Also, having so many POVs, please Emily correct me if I am wrong but about 6-7 and jumping through timelines has been such a challenge and at the same time what made me appreciate the books even more.
This second book perfectly ties to the first one, even surpassing my expectations and making me totally doubt about how this ending was going to go! I felt mentally challenged and I loved that! And I am just begging for a third book, I want to now what happens next already so I am hoping there will be more books coming
Thank you Emily for sharing your talent with me and with the world❤️
This is book two on Of Mountains and Seas from Emily Renk Hawthorne, From the Depths.
I have said it a few times already but I am so excited to have received this ARC, and to have being able to witness an authors first book, now the arc for the second and all the magic that came along reading this books!
Emily has an amazing talent for writing about topics that are not often talked about, she talks about politics, immigration, minorities, inclusion all while taking us into this magical tale and through so many feelings!
Also, having so many POVs, please Emily correct me if I am wrong but about 6-7 and jumping through timelines has been such a challenge and at the same time what made me appreciate the books even more.
This second book perfectly ties to the first one, even surpassing my expectations and making me totally doubt about how this ending was going to go! I felt mentally challenged and I loved that! And I am just begging for a third book, I want to now what happens next already so I am hoping there will be more books coming
Thank you Emily for sharing your talent with me and with the world❤️
July 21, 2026
This is the second book in the Of Mountains and Seas series.
This book follows on from the first so I do highly recommend reading them in order to full enjoy the story.
This is a multi generational fantasy with mystery. It was captivating and kept me turning pages from beginning to end.
Nivi is once again on her own after the new regime decides to wipe the memories of all shifters. No one remembers a thing expect for her. She remembers everything, every loss, every betrayal.
Now she finds herself separated from everyone again and when things start to happen, people start disappearing and the world starts to unravel it is only Nivi who can see the patterns but she is able to stop things before everything gets destroyed.
This is a fantasy urban mystery with a family saga and political elements which all create a fast paced engaging story.
Nivi is a great character. She is so strong and determined and she really makes the story come alive.
I was captivated by her story and I couldn’t put it down. I found myself lost in the story completely and it isn’t often I completely get lost in a book.
This book follows on from the first so I do highly recommend reading them in order to full enjoy the story.
This is a multi generational fantasy with mystery. It was captivating and kept me turning pages from beginning to end.
Nivi is once again on her own after the new regime decides to wipe the memories of all shifters. No one remembers a thing expect for her. She remembers everything, every loss, every betrayal.
Now she finds herself separated from everyone again and when things start to happen, people start disappearing and the world starts to unravel it is only Nivi who can see the patterns but she is able to stop things before everything gets destroyed.
This is a fantasy urban mystery with a family saga and political elements which all create a fast paced engaging story.
Nivi is a great character. She is so strong and determined and she really makes the story come alive.
I was captivated by her story and I couldn’t put it down. I found myself lost in the story completely and it isn’t often I completely get lost in a book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
And the streak continues. From the Depths, the second book of the 'Of Mountains and Of Seas' series, is as good as the first one, if not better. I literally finished it in one sitting. And is a third book too much to ask for??
The suspense, the thrill, the mysteries, they keep you hooked throughout. It has so many POVs and timelines, and that just keeps things interesting. I usually hate when a POV is broken in between, but here it actually helped in understanding the things happening at different places and at different times, so it worked positively.
Filled with so many creatures and magic, this book was magnificent. I absolutely adored the character arcs of David and Iris and I really want to read more of Arav in the shifters’ world and more of Ember. I’d love to read more of them in future books, if possible.(please author🥺)
Though the action scenes were a lot lesser than in the first book, the way new mysteries were uncovered and then solved made things much more interesting in this book.
The suspense, the thrill, the mysteries, they keep you hooked throughout. It has so many POVs and timelines, and that just keeps things interesting. I usually hate when a POV is broken in between, but here it actually helped in understanding the things happening at different places and at different times, so it worked positively.
Filled with so many creatures and magic, this book was magnificent. I absolutely adored the character arcs of David and Iris and I really want to read more of Arav in the shifters’ world and more of Ember. I’d love to read more of them in future books, if possible.(please author🥺)
Though the action scenes were a lot lesser than in the first book, the way new mysteries were uncovered and then solved made things much more interesting in this book.
June 12, 2026
I should have started with book 1 and I plan to go back and read book 1. This is book 2. It was a bit difficult for me to keep up in the first few chapters as so many characters along with their shifter forms were introduced. However one I got into the book it was easier to keep everyone in order.
In this story we follow closely with Nivi who has to pretend she doesn’t remember anything so the higher ups will not know that she is immune to Oblivion Tincture. Think of Oblivion tincture like the flashy thing they use in Men In Black every time they want someone to forget something but still live a nice life. Anyway a lot happened that they needed the public to forget about so they could pretty much re write history to sweep these incidents under the rug. They created a whole new life for all of the shifters and this became their new reality. Except Nivi, she remembers everything. But thankfully she was forewarned so she knows how to keep the act up. Will she be able to work towards a better future? Will she be able to keep the charade up so the higher ups don’t catch on?
In this story we follow closely with Nivi who has to pretend she doesn’t remember anything so the higher ups will not know that she is immune to Oblivion Tincture. Think of Oblivion tincture like the flashy thing they use in Men In Black every time they want someone to forget something but still live a nice life. Anyway a lot happened that they needed the public to forget about so they could pretty much re write history to sweep these incidents under the rug. They created a whole new life for all of the shifters and this became their new reality. Except Nivi, she remembers everything. But thankfully she was forewarned so she knows how to keep the act up. Will she be able to work towards a better future? Will she be able to keep the charade up so the higher ups don’t catch on?
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read Of Mountains and Seas Book 2 as an ARC, and it was so great to be back with these characters. Picking up right where Book 1 left off, the story dives deeper into California's hidden shapeshifter society and the mystery and tension feel even bigger this time around.
One of my favorite parts was seeing how much each character has grown and how their individual journeys continue to unfold. Everyone feels like they have their own stake in the story, and watching those pieces come together was really rewarding.
What struck me too was how relevant this story feels to current events. Themes of memory, control, and resistance hit differently right now and give the book a weight that lingers after you finish.
If you loved the multigenerational storytelling and mythology of Book 1, Book 2 expands on that foundation in a way that feels intentional and satisfying. I would give this 4 stars and recommend starting with Book 1 if you haven't already!
One of my favorite parts was seeing how much each character has grown and how their individual journeys continue to unfold. Everyone feels like they have their own stake in the story, and watching those pieces come together was really rewarding.
What struck me too was how relevant this story feels to current events. Themes of memory, control, and resistance hit differently right now and give the book a weight that lingers after you finish.
If you loved the multigenerational storytelling and mythology of Book 1, Book 2 expands on that foundation in a way that feels intentional and satisfying. I would give this 4 stars and recommend starting with Book 1 if you haven't already!
June 9, 2026
From the moment I started reading it, I knew I wasn’t going to put it down anytime soon. Every chapter was a new mystery, every POV a new layer to the story and before I knew it I was fully immersed in this world of magic and creatures and secrets.
The character development was what I loved most. No one was the same person as they were at the beginning and it was so rewarding to see them confront their mistakes, fears and prejudices. It’s not just a story of mystery but also a story of healing, redemption and finding the courage to move on.
Even with multiple timelines and perspectives, it never felt confusing to follow. It instead made the world seem larger, more alive, each piece falling into place like a puzzle.
And that ending? It left me craving more. More adventures, more answers, and a lot more time with these characters.
If you like fantasy filled with mystery, magical beings, and unforgettable character arcs, this series needs to go on your TBR!!!
The character development was what I loved most. No one was the same person as they were at the beginning and it was so rewarding to see them confront their mistakes, fears and prejudices. It’s not just a story of mystery but also a story of healing, redemption and finding the courage to move on.
Even with multiple timelines and perspectives, it never felt confusing to follow. It instead made the world seem larger, more alive, each piece falling into place like a puzzle.
And that ending? It left me craving more. More adventures, more answers, and a lot more time with these characters.
If you like fantasy filled with mystery, magical beings, and unforgettable character arcs, this series needs to go on your TBR!!!
June 11, 2026
🌊✨ What happens when you're the only person who remembers the truth?
After enjoying the first book in the Of Mountains and Seas series, I was excited to dive into From the Depths by Emily Renk, and it did not disappoint. This second installment raises the stakes with deeper mysteries, higher tension, and an emotional journey that kept me invested from beginning to end.
I loved following Nivi as she struggles with being the only shifter immune to the memory-erasing tincture. Her isolation, determination, and search for answers made her an incredibly compelling character. The strange disappearances, unsettling events, and unraveling reality created an atmosphere of suspense that had me eager to keep reading.
If you're a fan of YA fantasy filled with shapeshifters, secrets, adventure, and a heroine fighting to protect both her people and the truth, this series is well worth picking up.
✨️Thank you, Books Forward PR and Emily Renk, for sharing From the Depths with me!
After enjoying the first book in the Of Mountains and Seas series, I was excited to dive into From the Depths by Emily Renk, and it did not disappoint. This second installment raises the stakes with deeper mysteries, higher tension, and an emotional journey that kept me invested from beginning to end.
I loved following Nivi as she struggles with being the only shifter immune to the memory-erasing tincture. Her isolation, determination, and search for answers made her an incredibly compelling character. The strange disappearances, unsettling events, and unraveling reality created an atmosphere of suspense that had me eager to keep reading.
If you're a fan of YA fantasy filled with shapeshifters, secrets, adventure, and a heroine fighting to protect both her people and the truth, this series is well worth picking up.
✨️Thank you, Books Forward PR and Emily Renk, for sharing From the Depths with me!
June 11, 2026
From the Depths (Of Mountains and Seas) by Emily Renk Hawthorne This is the 2nd book in the Of Mountains and Seas series and I highly recommend reading them in order. This book picks right up where the 1st left off. In this book every shifter has had their memories swiped except for Nevi. Being the only one that remembers things done wrong, people that have betrayed and been betrayed, being left out and all the other memories good and bad she is feeling very lonely. With the help of the others Nevi wants to set things right in their world again but with that comes lots of forgiveness on Nevi's part. She has grown from a shy, quiet girl to the bold, and brave woman she is today. This book teaches us that we have to let go of the past if we really want to move forward in the future. Even though this is a young adult fantasy read, I am much older than that and I really enjoyed it. It was full of mystery, lies, manipulation and betrayal! Do yourself a favor and read this great book !
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