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Crimson Legacies
The Goddess Promised Peace
For centuries, the Goddess’s light held the realms together… until her chosen cleric shattered the covenant and ignited a civil war. Though peace has returned, whispers persist that the rebellion was never truly defeated, only driven into the shadows.
Sarabina expected nothing more than a quiet life in her village. When a chance encounter awakens a magical heritage, she becomes a threat the Goddess herself cannot ignore and the last hope for those who seek the truth behind the war.
In the Capital, Prince Rohirth struggles to fill the void left by his father’s death. When rumors of a resurgent rebellion surface, he rises to confront the Goddess’s enemies, only to find his doubts growing faster than his victories.
As Sarabina and Rohirth are drawn onto a collision course, one dangerous question binds their
What secret could the girl possess that is powerful enough to threaten an immortal deity?
Crimson Legacies is a sweeping, character-driven fantasy that explores the razor-thin line between virtue and corruption, faith and fear, redemption and ruin.
For centuries, the Goddess’s light held the realms together… until her chosen cleric shattered the covenant and ignited a civil war. Though peace has returned, whispers persist that the rebellion was never truly defeated, only driven into the shadows.
Sarabina expected nothing more than a quiet life in her village. When a chance encounter awakens a magical heritage, she becomes a threat the Goddess herself cannot ignore and the last hope for those who seek the truth behind the war.
In the Capital, Prince Rohirth struggles to fill the void left by his father’s death. When rumors of a resurgent rebellion surface, he rises to confront the Goddess’s enemies, only to find his doubts growing faster than his victories.
As Sarabina and Rohirth are drawn onto a collision course, one dangerous question binds their
What secret could the girl possess that is powerful enough to threaten an immortal deity?
Crimson Legacies is a sweeping, character-driven fantasy that explores the razor-thin line between virtue and corruption, faith and fear, redemption and ruin.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crimson Legacies by Brendan Raybuck is the first book in the Ash & Myst Saga. It’s a multiple point of view epic fantasy novel, and let me tell you, you are IN FOR A JOURNEY! This book explores heavy religious themes as it’s based in a world where magic comes from their goddess and is gifted to clerics, and clerics alone, who are trusted to do the work of the goddess.
“We will have peace because of her” is a quote used often to indicate the mindless worship of this goddess.
But when one unicorn brings a baby to a farmer fifteen years ago, no one expected anything crazy to happen… right? RIGHT? Well, listen, this girl was flooded with so much magic, and this revelation put her on a journey, running from the prince who was set by the goddess to put talks of old rebellions to rest. The girl is paired up with a witch and a revered war brute, who then picks up his own guests by taking along a mother and her son because, we all love a hidden softie at heart. But damn! I loved the world we were in and the way magic worked. It was so creative and unique. I loved getting all the points of view and the character dynamics. And I loved being utterly gut wrenched at the very end with things I most certainly did not expect. All I can say is DAMN YOU!
There are things that could have been approved upon, as all novels can be. For starters, it was slightly slower in the beginning. I didn’t get to the point of page turning, can’t put it down, until the last 20%. However, that’s expected in epic fantasies, and it didn’t bother me. I sometimes like reading at a more leisurely pace.
Additionally, there were times where it felt like the stakes were too easy and there wasn’t as much tension as I would have hoped. I sort of lost track of time in parts because it appeared months would have passed, but there was urgency on a particular mission, so I simply lost the urgent portions of that.
Final piece of criticism I would say is that this was an epic fantasy with an epic quest. I feel we lost the ability to explore potential creatures and the beauty of the world where we stayed heavily on the human side of things. There wasn't other threats to the journey aside from being chased by the prince and his army, so that's where some of the tension fell for me. As long as they stayed ahead of the prince, they were always fine. Nothing else tested their limits of survival.
But, all in all, well done. It got a big emotional reaction out of me in the end, and that’s all I really care about (aside from it being a good story of course).
Giving it a 4.5, but rounding up to 5!
“We will have peace because of her” is a quote used often to indicate the mindless worship of this goddess.
But when one unicorn brings a baby to a farmer fifteen years ago, no one expected anything crazy to happen… right? RIGHT? Well, listen, this girl was flooded with so much magic, and this revelation put her on a journey, running from the prince who was set by the goddess to put talks of old rebellions to rest. The girl is paired up with a witch and a revered war brute, who then picks up his own guests by taking along a mother and her son because, we all love a hidden softie at heart. But damn! I loved the world we were in and the way magic worked. It was so creative and unique. I loved getting all the points of view and the character dynamics. And I loved being utterly gut wrenched at the very end with things I most certainly did not expect. All I can say is DAMN YOU!
There are things that could have been approved upon, as all novels can be. For starters, it was slightly slower in the beginning. I didn’t get to the point of page turning, can’t put it down, until the last 20%. However, that’s expected in epic fantasies, and it didn’t bother me. I sometimes like reading at a more leisurely pace.
Additionally, there were times where it felt like the stakes were too easy and there wasn’t as much tension as I would have hoped. I sort of lost track of time in parts because it appeared months would have passed, but there was urgency on a particular mission, so I simply lost the urgent portions of that.
Final piece of criticism I would say is that this was an epic fantasy with an epic quest. I feel we lost the ability to explore potential creatures and the beauty of the world where we stayed heavily on the human side of things. There wasn't other threats to the journey aside from being chased by the prince and his army, so that's where some of the tension fell for me. As long as they stayed ahead of the prince, they were always fine. Nothing else tested their limits of survival.
But, all in all, well done. It got a big emotional reaction out of me in the end, and that’s all I really care about (aside from it being a good story of course).
Giving it a 4.5, but rounding up to 5!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for the ARC opportunity!
This debut novel really hit its stride for me in the second half, typical of a fantasy. The first 50% was solid, but once I got deeper into the story, I found myself genuinely invested and excited to see where things were going.
What really worked for me was how different this felt. Unicorns, pirates, witches, and a magic system that doesn’t feel like everything else out there? Yes please. The adventure elements kept me turning pages. Every new port stop and city brought something new, and those side quests that spiral into absolute chaos were fantastic. This gave me similar vibes to Blood Over Bright Haven in terms of creativity and willingness to do something fresh with the genre.
The character development is brewing nicely too. I’m particularly intrigued by Sarrona, Artois, and Aveline (I need to know MORE about their backstories, please and thank you). And there’s this undercurrent of hidden truths about the Goddess and the Chronicle that has me very curious about what’s really going on beneath the surface.
A couple things that tripped me up: some of the character names struck me as similar, and there are quite a few characters to wrap your head around. Sarabina and Sarrona in particular had me doing double-takes while piecing together connections. The faith-driven aspects of the plot (clerics, temple attendance, disciples rewarded for loyalty) also weren’t entirely my cup of tea, but that’s purely personal preference, not a fault in the storytelling. I felt similar about The Knight & The Moth, which is purely a me thing and not a knock to the writing!
Overall, I had fun with this one and I’m looking forward to continuing book two. Also, this is the first unicorn I’ve encountered in fantasy, and honestly? About time!
This is a debut novel that stands out for all the right reasons, and is worthy of a spot on your TBR. If you’re a fan of adventure (that almost gives a LOTR Fellowship vibe with the travelling crew), fantasy, and plots with questions about belief and power, this one’s worth picking up.
This debut novel really hit its stride for me in the second half, typical of a fantasy. The first 50% was solid, but once I got deeper into the story, I found myself genuinely invested and excited to see where things were going.
What really worked for me was how different this felt. Unicorns, pirates, witches, and a magic system that doesn’t feel like everything else out there? Yes please. The adventure elements kept me turning pages. Every new port stop and city brought something new, and those side quests that spiral into absolute chaos were fantastic. This gave me similar vibes to Blood Over Bright Haven in terms of creativity and willingness to do something fresh with the genre.
The character development is brewing nicely too. I’m particularly intrigued by Sarrona, Artois, and Aveline (I need to know MORE about their backstories, please and thank you). And there’s this undercurrent of hidden truths about the Goddess and the Chronicle that has me very curious about what’s really going on beneath the surface.
A couple things that tripped me up: some of the character names struck me as similar, and there are quite a few characters to wrap your head around. Sarabina and Sarrona in particular had me doing double-takes while piecing together connections. The faith-driven aspects of the plot (clerics, temple attendance, disciples rewarded for loyalty) also weren’t entirely my cup of tea, but that’s purely personal preference, not a fault in the storytelling. I felt similar about The Knight & The Moth, which is purely a me thing and not a knock to the writing!
Overall, I had fun with this one and I’m looking forward to continuing book two. Also, this is the first unicorn I’ve encountered in fantasy, and honestly? About time!
This is a debut novel that stands out for all the right reasons, and is worthy of a spot on your TBR. If you’re a fan of adventure (that almost gives a LOTR Fellowship vibe with the travelling crew), fantasy, and plots with questions about belief and power, this one’s worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a solid debut from this fantasy author!
There were many things about this book to enjoy: coming-of-age / chosen one, found family, very clear magic system, a unrelenting chase, a Goddess' wrath, sorcerers, unicorns, clerics, werewolves, elves, and a berserker who deserves a standalone book (IMO)! Lots of good stuff.
Things I personally enjoyed: I like the Sage/mentor who you don't really know if she's in it to help our MFC or does she have other nefarious goals, are rigid and divine inquisitor's struggles were well formed and makes him a compelling character, there's some other agency working in the background that you find out at the end of the book that piqued my interest, the found-family that is formed throughout the book works really well.
The story and plot is well executed, the descriptions and scenes are well put together, the struggle for the characters feels good, and I don't see any issues with the pacing.
Some constructive criticisms: It's been noted in a few other reviews but there are a few names that are very similar, but once you get familiarized it reads ok.
Another minor criticism, I think our MFC was able to take some huge leaps in understanding her new power and subsequently her position against her mentor. However, not all readers might agree.
Lastly, I also thought there a key movement of the plot (Death) was from a character that we didn't fully invest in as a reader and there was a missed opportunities of another death that could have driven the story forward as well.
Besides these items, I think this was a well rounded story and it was very enjoyable. I firmly believe it rates between a 4 and 5. And because I can't give a half star, we'll round up.
There were many things about this book to enjoy: coming-of-age / chosen one, found family, very clear magic system, a unrelenting chase, a Goddess' wrath, sorcerers, unicorns, clerics, werewolves, elves, and a berserker who deserves a standalone book (IMO)! Lots of good stuff.
Things I personally enjoyed: I like the Sage/mentor who you don't really know if she's in it to help our MFC or does she have other nefarious goals, are rigid and divine inquisitor's struggles were well formed and makes him a compelling character, there's some other agency working in the background that you find out at the end of the book that piqued my interest, the found-family that is formed throughout the book works really well.
The story and plot is well executed, the descriptions and scenes are well put together, the struggle for the characters feels good, and I don't see any issues with the pacing.
Some constructive criticisms: It's been noted in a few other reviews but there are a few names that are very similar, but once you get familiarized it reads ok.
Another minor criticism, I think our MFC was able to take some huge leaps in understanding her new power and subsequently her position against her mentor. However, not all readers might agree.
Lastly, I also thought there a key movement of the plot (Death) was from a character that we didn't fully invest in as a reader and there was a missed opportunities of another death that could have driven the story forward as well.
Besides these items, I think this was a well rounded story and it was very enjoyable. I firmly believe it rates between a 4 and 5. And because I can't give a half star, we'll round up.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was excited to receive this Arc for an honest opinion since I wanted to broaden my fantasy book horizon, and I love stumbling across new authors. I typically read an array of genres but always enjoy character driven stories—and Ash & Myst: Crimson Legacies delivered.
What I enjoyed the most about Crimson Legacies book one was the characters! The author did a good job of making several likeable characters, whether their role was big or not. You CARE about what happens to them. I also really liked that there seemed to be purposes for specific choices rather than shock value. I won’t give spoilers away, but choices that are made are believable and so are the consequences.
What did not work for me was the first few chapters were slow. I do find that seems to be common in fantasy books, but I don’t want to read a prologue longer than three pages. However, it does pick up after the first three chapters. Overall, if you are used to fantasy, it shouldn’t be a problem.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a fantasy adventure story with multiple main leads, with themes of faith, redemption, rebellion, magic, and a hint of romance.
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I want to thank the author Brandan Raybuck for this Arc copy, and I genuinely look forward to the rest of the series.
What I enjoyed the most about Crimson Legacies book one was the characters! The author did a good job of making several likeable characters, whether their role was big or not. You CARE about what happens to them. I also really liked that there seemed to be purposes for specific choices rather than shock value. I won’t give spoilers away, but choices that are made are believable and so are the consequences.
What did not work for me was the first few chapters were slow. I do find that seems to be common in fantasy books, but I don’t want to read a prologue longer than three pages. However, it does pick up after the first three chapters. Overall, if you are used to fantasy, it shouldn’t be a problem.
I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a fantasy adventure story with multiple main leads, with themes of faith, redemption, rebellion, magic, and a hint of romance.
Overall ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
I want to thank the author Brandan Raybuck for this Arc copy, and I genuinely look forward to the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Crimson Legacies was a five‑star read for me. The worldbuilding pulled me in right away, and the magic system felt fresh without ever becoming confusing. High Cleric Lestara quickly became one of my favorite characters she’s written with real strength and presence, and the supporting cast is just as compelling.
The pacing stayed tight throughout, and the story balanced action, mystery, and character moments in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish. This book sets up a world I want to spend more time in, and I’m excited to see where the series goes next.
The pacing stayed tight throughout, and the story balanced action, mystery, and character moments in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish. This book sets up a world I want to spend more time in, and I’m excited to see where the series goes next.
Review of advance copy
I really enjoyed Crimson Legacies, even as someone who doesn’t usually read fantasy. Like many books in the genre, it takes a little time at first to get familiar with the characters and the world, but once everything clicks, the story becomes impossible to put down. The plot pulls you in, the tension keeps building, and before you know it, you’re fully invested. Definitely a great read, even for non-fantasy readers like me. A must read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was fortunate enough to get a pre-read and found myself unable to put it down. Great character development and plot twists at every turn. If you’re a sci-fi fan this is a great read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC in exchange for honest feedback!
Crimson Legacies is a ambitious, atmospheric debut that leans heavily into its "dark fantasy" label full of visceral imagery and high-stakes tension, creating a world that feels genuinely dangerous and like a DnD campaign all at once.
What I Liked:
The World Building: Very immersive and detailed with unicorns, elves, werewolves, clerics, paladins, pirates, and more. Along with many locations along the journey.
The Lore: The concepts of inherited power and the burden of bloodlines were interesting.
Where it Lost a Couple of Stars:
Pacing: There were sections in the middle where the plot felt a bit stagnant, focusing more on the grimness of the world than moving the story forward.
Character Connectivity: While the protagonist’s struggle is clear, I occasionally found it hard to emotionally invest in the secondary cast. The names were also too similar overall and some POVs felt unnecessary.
Final Thoughts:
If you love a DnD cast of characters, supernatural fiction with a heavy emphasis on world-building and moral ambiguity, this is definitely worth a read. It’s a solid entry into the genre, and I’m curious to see how the authors style evolves in future installments.
Crimson Legacies is a ambitious, atmospheric debut that leans heavily into its "dark fantasy" label full of visceral imagery and high-stakes tension, creating a world that feels genuinely dangerous and like a DnD campaign all at once.
What I Liked:
The World Building: Very immersive and detailed with unicorns, elves, werewolves, clerics, paladins, pirates, and more. Along with many locations along the journey.
The Lore: The concepts of inherited power and the burden of bloodlines were interesting.
Where it Lost a Couple of Stars:
Pacing: There were sections in the middle where the plot felt a bit stagnant, focusing more on the grimness of the world than moving the story forward.
Character Connectivity: While the protagonist’s struggle is clear, I occasionally found it hard to emotionally invest in the secondary cast. The names were also too similar overall and some POVs felt unnecessary.
Final Thoughts:
If you love a DnD cast of characters, supernatural fiction with a heavy emphasis on world-building and moral ambiguity, this is definitely worth a read. It’s a solid entry into the genre, and I’m curious to see how the authors style evolves in future installments.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews