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Emperor's Assassin #5
Crown of Ash
As fires burn Tavornai and Bemishu marches on the Ariphadeus, something even more horrifying threatens the happiness Tallu and I have found.
We have finally found an ally that will allow us to retake the Imperium from Kacha and Bemishu’s clutches. Even as we control the rivers that cross the empire, Kacha and Bemishu move with the confidence of experienced generals, keeping us from total victory.
When Bemishu flees into the Ariphadeus, we must follow him because what lives there would change the war in his favor. Can we find it first? And if we do, could we possibly win at last?
We have finally found an ally that will allow us to retake the Imperium from Kacha and Bemishu’s clutches. Even as we control the rivers that cross the empire, Kacha and Bemishu move with the confidence of experienced generals, keeping us from total victory.
When Bemishu flees into the Ariphadeus, we must follow him because what lives there would change the war in his favor. Can we find it first? And if we do, could we possibly win at last?
458 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2026
About the author
Kai Butler
33 books642 followersKai has been reading and writing romance novels since she was a teenager. She lives in California with her two children and her very supportive husband.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
She writes M/M romance with an emphasis on HEAs and all the feels. Her current series are San Amaro Investigations and the Imperial Space Regency Novels. She likes dashing heroes and couples with banter.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fifth and finale in series (Emperor’s Assassin), must be read in order. Fantasy. Established couple. Found family. Single POV.
Airón, Tallu, and all of their supporters are still in the midst of battle with the two traitorous generals that want to see the Imperium conquer all the lands. As Airón discovers more powers and is in a race to save Tallu, peace keeps seeming just out of reach.
I did not realize that this was the conclusion to the series, but when we finally got to the end result I was happy with the way the story ended. Airón and Tallu remained steadfast throughout, and even though everything was from Airón’s POV I did wish Tallu got to be more involved. I enjoyed the continued sense of found family and would have loved to see all the supporting characters in their found family in the epilogue, but that’s probably too greedy of me. Overall, this series was entertaining, Airón and Tallu were a great couple to root for, and we got to see the empire united and flourishing while Airón and Tallu got to live in peace. 4.5 rounded up
Airón, Tallu, and all of their supporters are still in the midst of battle with the two traitorous generals that want to see the Imperium conquer all the lands. As Airón discovers more powers and is in a race to save Tallu, peace keeps seeming just out of reach.
I did not realize that this was the conclusion to the series, but when we finally got to the end result I was happy with the way the story ended. Airón and Tallu remained steadfast throughout, and even though everything was from Airón’s POV I did wish Tallu got to be more involved. I enjoyed the continued sense of found family and would have loved to see all the supporting characters in their found family in the epilogue, but that’s probably too greedy of me. Overall, this series was entertaining, Airón and Tallu were a great couple to root for, and we got to see the empire united and flourishing while Airón and Tallu got to live in peace. 4.5 rounded up
October 30, 2026
The finale continues exactly where the previous book left off, and it took me a while to get back into this world, remember the previous events and what is actually going on.
This series is brimming with imagination, intrigue and originality.
The world Kai Butler has created is fascinating and inventive, no doubt, but at times, it feels like her creative mind explodes, and for me, it’s almost too much. So many names, so many creatures, allies and enemies, and just as before, virtually nobody Tallu and Airon can trust.
The latter is something that I found difficult throughout the series … the fact that distrust and suspicion is the main form of relationship with others, that (virtually) nobody can be trusted, right up to the very end. There is very little kindness in these books. And very few truly 'nice' characters.
And the brutality and horror of what happens to Airon later in this book on various levels really threw me. And yes, we finally find out why Airon has been collecting all that magic along the way!
The plot is so action heavy and fast paced, it flips and turns so often, virtually flying through events, to the point that I felt we were skimming over a lot of things. Some developments I considered important, are concluded in a couple of paragraphs, leaving me like ‘oh, so that’s it?’
And I’m not sure if this is deliberate, but on a few occasions, things are not explained in full detail … like a person suddenly appearing in a conversation when we are not even told that they are there, and me wondering ‘how did he/she get here?’ and so on.
As for Tallu and Airon …
I know Kai Butler doesn’t do a huge amount of romance in her books. I liked books 1 and 2 best for that.
By book 3 they are a solid couple and ‘not much else’ happens on that front.
I still have a ‘connection problem’ with Airon, his arrogance and feeling of superiority never matching up with his actions.
I think what I like most about Kai Butler’s series (this one and San Amareno Investigations) is her environmental message. The way she weaves nature and magic together. The way she shows what abuse of power can do, and what the consequences are for everyone. The way trees and the earth are characters that live and breathe with and for us. That peace, even if hard earned, is the right way to go.
All in all, this is an interesting series, and if you are an avid fantasy reader who likes heavy action, you will most likely enjoy it, but if you’re hoping for something romance heavy, this isn’t it.
This series is brimming with imagination, intrigue and originality.
The world Kai Butler has created is fascinating and inventive, no doubt, but at times, it feels like her creative mind explodes, and for me, it’s almost too much. So many names, so many creatures, allies and enemies, and just as before, virtually nobody Tallu and Airon can trust.
The latter is something that I found difficult throughout the series … the fact that distrust and suspicion is the main form of relationship with others, that (virtually) nobody can be trusted, right up to the very end. There is very little kindness in these books. And very few truly 'nice' characters.
And the brutality and horror of what happens to Airon later in this book on various levels really threw me. And yes, we finally find out why Airon has been collecting all that magic along the way!
The plot is so action heavy and fast paced, it flips and turns so often, virtually flying through events, to the point that I felt we were skimming over a lot of things. Some developments I considered important, are concluded in a couple of paragraphs, leaving me like ‘oh, so that’s it?’
And I’m not sure if this is deliberate, but on a few occasions, things are not explained in full detail … like a person suddenly appearing in a conversation when we are not even told that they are there, and me wondering ‘how did he/she get here?’ and so on.
As for Tallu and Airon …
I know Kai Butler doesn’t do a huge amount of romance in her books. I liked books 1 and 2 best for that.
By book 3 they are a solid couple and ‘not much else’ happens on that front.
I still have a ‘connection problem’ with Airon, his arrogance and feeling of superiority never matching up with his actions.
I think what I like most about Kai Butler’s series (this one and San Amareno Investigations) is her environmental message. The way she weaves nature and magic together. The way she shows what abuse of power can do, and what the consequences are for everyone. The way trees and the earth are characters that live and breathe with and for us. That peace, even if hard earned, is the right way to go.
All in all, this is an interesting series, and if you are an avid fantasy reader who likes heavy action, you will most likely enjoy it, but if you’re hoping for something romance heavy, this isn’t it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I purchased the book from Kai’s site. I was so excited for the book that I preordered it on kindle, but when I got an email that the book was available on their site with an extra chapter, I went ahead and bought it there, too.
This series has been stuck in my brain pretty relentlessly for about 1 month. I have read all the books and own most of the audiobooks. There hasn’t been an Airón and Tallu-free day of my life for awhile. I would say that I am very satisfied with the conclusion. I am sure Kai Butler is probably sick to death of this series, however, I think that some additional side stories of our lovebirds having peaceful times would be lovely.
This story had so many twists, this installment was no different. If you’re like me and stressed about what the characters may face, though, just know that there is a happy ending waiting for you. To that end, though, revealing pretty much any of the plot points would be a spoiler. Try to go in blind as much as possible!
Thanks for all your work, Kai Butler! I hope you know that there is a large fanbase cheering you on. Here’s hoping that you still want to release some additional content, though, since it’s hard to believe that Emperor’s Assassin is over. 💕
This series has been stuck in my brain pretty relentlessly for about 1 month. I have read all the books and own most of the audiobooks. There hasn’t been an Airón and Tallu-free day of my life for awhile. I would say that I am very satisfied with the conclusion. I am sure Kai Butler is probably sick to death of this series, however, I think that some additional side stories of our lovebirds having peaceful times would be lovely.
This story had so many twists, this installment was no different. If you’re like me and stressed about what the characters may face, though, just know that there is a happy ending waiting for you. To that end, though, revealing pretty much any of the plot points would be a spoiler. Try to go in blind as much as possible!
Thanks for all your work, Kai Butler! I hope you know that there is a large fanbase cheering you on. Here’s hoping that you still want to release some additional content, though, since it’s hard to believe that Emperor’s Assassin is over. 💕
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fifth and final book of the Emperor's Assassin series, Airón and Tallu have a distance to go before they can achieve peace on the continent. After spending the last few books trying to fight the war mongering mantle of the imperial crown the pair have a plan.
Loving this series for the last year and a bit getting to know Airón and his beloved Emperor. As they try and mold the world to a better way trying to fight curses and live up to the proficiency.
I struggled with the middle of this book a little as the magic that Airón is dealing with did become complicated. I felt we could have had a little more breathing room for the character and the audience as it was a lot to suddenly be dealing with. Also the number of battles that took place some times can be confusing to read and it that is a big part of this story.
The relationship with Airón and Tallu is still so strong and I love how they seem to have developed such a strong understanding of eachothers moods and micro expressions. They have such a heavy responsibility and are fighting everything from all directions.
It was a solid end to the series and the story of the pair, just felt like I was in the water current of the story not sure where things were going but being pulled along for the ride. Still made me cry when it was over as happy to see when everything ended up.
Loving this series for the last year and a bit getting to know Airón and his beloved Emperor. As they try and mold the world to a better way trying to fight curses and live up to the proficiency.
I struggled with the middle of this book a little as the magic that Airón is dealing with did become complicated. I felt we could have had a little more breathing room for the character and the audience as it was a lot to suddenly be dealing with. Also the number of battles that took place some times can be confusing to read and it that is a big part of this story.
The relationship with Airón and Tallu is still so strong and I love how they seem to have developed such a strong understanding of eachothers moods and micro expressions. They have such a heavy responsibility and are fighting everything from all directions.
It was a solid end to the series and the story of the pair, just felt like I was in the water current of the story not sure where things were going but being pulled along for the ride. Still made me cry when it was over as happy to see when everything ended up.
October 30, 2026
I’m actually so sad that this series is over.
I do feel like a good chunk of this book was just unnecessary and a lot of details fell into place too conveniently. I won’t get into spoilers but I’m sure if you’ve read this book you’ll know what I mean.
Of the five books in this series this one was my least favorite, but I still enjoyed it. I just feel like the pacing was off and the plot sorta took a turn.
I do feel like a good chunk of this book was just unnecessary and a lot of details fell into place too conveniently. I won’t get into spoilers but I’m sure if you’ve read this book you’ll know what I mean.
Of the five books in this series this one was my least favorite, but I still enjoyed it. I just feel like the pacing was off and the plot sorta took a turn.
Want to Read
June 26, 2026So far, this series has been great. I can't wait (like seriously... I can't :/) for this to come out :)
November 2, 2026
A lot happens in this book and most of it is very good.
A lot of action, new places and new people. Some heartbreaking moments and some unexpected revelations.
And yet.
Why making Airon an overpowered superhero? I missed the clever, underestimated assassin who only uses his wit, his ability to make friends and his swordfighting prowess to reach his goals. Yes, he still uses all of those skills, but the focus here is on his rapidly growing, superhuman magic abilities. By contrast, Tallu feels like a delicate damsel for most of the book. A lot of his commanding presence is gone.
The ending is a little bit underwhelming as well.
I've been hoping to learn the fate of Sagam and Asahi's relationship, read about Tallu's first meeting with Queen Opula as her son's husband, learn what happened to the people Airon sent to Northern Kingdom.
A lot of loose ends, here.
Sadly, I was not enjoying myself as much as I did with previous books (especially 1&2).
A lot of action, new places and new people. Some heartbreaking moments and some unexpected revelations.
And yet.
Why making Airon an overpowered superhero? I missed the clever, underestimated assassin who only uses his wit, his ability to make friends and his swordfighting prowess to reach his goals. Yes, he still uses all of those skills, but the focus here is on his rapidly growing, superhuman magic abilities. By contrast, Tallu feels like a delicate damsel for most of the book. A lot of his commanding presence is gone.
The ending is a little bit underwhelming as well.
I've been hoping to learn the fate of Sagam and Asahi's relationship, read about Tallu's first meeting with Queen Opula as her son's husband, learn what happened to the people Airon sent to Northern Kingdom.
A lot of loose ends, here.
Sadly, I was not enjoying myself as much as I did with previous books (especially 1&2).
October 23, 2026
This is the epic conclusion to the Emperor’s Assassin series - and what a ride it was! While not perfect, it was fast paced and attention grabbing. It did not go the way I expected, however I appreciated the creativity used to wrap things up.
What I liked most: Airón and Tallu’s devotion to each other, Naí, the lush descriptions of the settings, the gripping adventure, and the epilogue.
However, there were a few things I didn’t care for. Some were simply technical - the transitions between paragraphs from one location/time to another could have been improved as there were a few spots that kind of jumped ahead without indication that took me out of the story. I also didn’t realize how much time had elapsed between the start of the series and the end.
But my biggest issue was there were some plot points I would have liked to have been expanded that were glossed over and some things that should have been difficult seemed to be resolved easily. Don’t get me wrong, the end was hard won, but it felt rushed. I know the author had originally planned two books to finish the series, but felt she only needed one. I think it could have benefited from a few more chapters.
All that being said, I do recommend this series and I devoured this book.
What I liked most: Airón and Tallu’s devotion to each other, Naí, the lush descriptions of the settings, the gripping adventure, and the epilogue.
However, there were a few things I didn’t care for. Some were simply technical - the transitions between paragraphs from one location/time to another could have been improved as there were a few spots that kind of jumped ahead without indication that took me out of the story. I also didn’t realize how much time had elapsed between the start of the series and the end.
But my biggest issue was there were some plot points I would have liked to have been expanded that were glossed over and some things that should have been difficult seemed to be resolved easily. Don’t get me wrong, the end was hard won, but it felt rushed. I know the author had originally planned two books to finish the series, but felt she only needed one. I think it could have benefited from a few more chapters.
All that being said, I do recommend this series and I devoured this book.
October 27, 2026
I loved this series because of the political intrigue. So if you're like me, I need to warn you this book has the least amount of political intrigue of all the books. There's all-out battles, and they're hard. There's also torture. Most of this book is five stars.
HOWEVER.
I was so excited to see the political intrigue that could be cooked up by Airon and his sister when they finally get together, but no. I was disappointed. But that's probably just me and my specific expectations hoping for sibling intrigue shenanigans.
If you were just hoping for a great battle scene, great magic, and a HEA, then this book delivered.
HOWEVER.
I was so excited to see the political intrigue that could be cooked up by Airon and his sister when they finally get together, but no. I was disappointed. But that's probably just me and my specific expectations hoping for sibling intrigue shenanigans.
If you were just hoping for a great battle scene, great magic, and a HEA, then this book delivered.
October 26, 2026
Like the rest of the series, this book is full of politics, intrigue, and action. Tallu and Airon’s relationship is still strong and I love how much it’s grown. The plot is dense and complicated, but their love and respect for each other are not. The magic and mythology got a bit murky in places, but I approached it like I approach opera - following along with the entire story meant the more convoluted bits sorted themselves out for my brain in due time. And the payoff was fantastic.
October 28, 2026
This is the fifth (and last) book in the series, so gentle note that you'll want to start at the beginning, if you haven't already. Ultimately, this feels like a fitting end to Airón and Tallu's odyssey, and I'm happy for how things wound to a close. It's a little bittersweet, saying goodbye to this world and these characters, but like all of its predecessors, this book is a heck of a ride along the way.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
October 30, 2026
the perfect ending to such an epic fantasy series! everything i love about fantasy was here, from dragons and political intrigue to a rich plot and complex characters. not without its flaws ofc but this series will always hold a special place in my heart 🤍
October 30, 2026
As this series continued, it was less enjoyable and more from the roots of the story. Very much a jumping the shark scenario for me.
Read
October 31, 2026a LOT of things happened in this last instalment, and it felt neverending (but not in a good way)
November 3, 2026
coming to an end
wow, this is a wild ride just closing out. It's amazing series. I've waited so long to read the end.
wow, this is a wild ride just closing out. It's amazing series. I've waited so long to read the end.
November 3, 2026
4.5 stars
November 4, 2026
A thrilling conclusion to an amazing series. The plot threads are well-resolved. I loved the slow reveal of Airon’s fate and the way he used his magic to finally achieve peace and unify the land. The epilogue was also perfect, hinting at their hard-won HEA.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews