What do you think?
Only Embers Remain: Book Three in the Trium Perfectum Series
The journey will separate them, but will never keep them apart.
The truth has changed everything.
With Lilith in a coma and their grandmother vanished, Kaitlin and Max Gilbert are thrust into a world of power, estates, and secrets they were never meant to inherit. As the Resistance quietly moves to expose what’s hidden inside Gilbert Enterprises, Kaitlin is given a dangerous get close to Tanner Asheborne—the head of one of the most formidable magical families in existence.
But the Ashebornes are already watching.
Armed with fragments of a prophecy and haunted by what’s been taken from them, the group digs deeper—into families, into magic, and into the systems that have quietly harmed others like Kaitlin. Uncovering these elements forces tensions to their highest point. Kaitlin and Finn must go down different paths. Both lead to power, understanding, and parts of themselves they've never tapped into.
Finn is drawn into the heart of a powerful canine pack, forced to confront instincts, hierarchies, and a legacy he’s never belonged to.
Kaitlin is led to a past she doesn’t remember—one that holds dragons, family, and a life that once existed beyond the city’s walls.
The closer they get to the truth, the more dangerous the game becomes.
Because some embers aren’t meant to die.
The truth has changed everything.
With Lilith in a coma and their grandmother vanished, Kaitlin and Max Gilbert are thrust into a world of power, estates, and secrets they were never meant to inherit. As the Resistance quietly moves to expose what’s hidden inside Gilbert Enterprises, Kaitlin is given a dangerous get close to Tanner Asheborne—the head of one of the most formidable magical families in existence.
But the Ashebornes are already watching.
Armed with fragments of a prophecy and haunted by what’s been taken from them, the group digs deeper—into families, into magic, and into the systems that have quietly harmed others like Kaitlin. Uncovering these elements forces tensions to their highest point. Kaitlin and Finn must go down different paths. Both lead to power, understanding, and parts of themselves they've never tapped into.
Finn is drawn into the heart of a powerful canine pack, forced to confront instincts, hierarchies, and a legacy he’s never belonged to.
Kaitlin is led to a past she doesn’t remember—one that holds dragons, family, and a life that once existed beyond the city’s walls.
The closer they get to the truth, the more dangerous the game becomes.
Because some embers aren’t meant to die.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2026
About the author
Kara M. Zone
11 books104 followersKara M. Zone crafts tales of magic, mayhem, and mischief.
She is the author of the forthcoming new adult dark fantasy:
Book .05: An Accidental Faerie Tale
Book One: Cinders Burn at Midnight
Book 1.5: Even After...
Book Two: Ashes Fall at Dawn
Book Three: Only Embers Remain
Expanded Editions:
An accidental Faerie Tale
Even After
The Trium Perfectum universe includes 12 full-length novels in the Soverign City series; three novellas (to date); and a standalone Romance Series in Shadows Ridge (date TBD)
Stick around! You're in for a wild ride!
When she is not writing her own books, Kara works as indie publishing and writing consultant. Contact her at contact@karamzone.com
She is the author of the forthcoming new adult dark fantasy:
Book .05: An Accidental Faerie Tale
Book One: Cinders Burn at Midnight
Book 1.5: Even After...
Book Two: Ashes Fall at Dawn
Book Three: Only Embers Remain
Expanded Editions:
An accidental Faerie Tale
Even After
The Trium Perfectum universe includes 12 full-length novels in the Soverign City series; three novellas (to date); and a standalone Romance Series in Shadows Ridge (date TBD)
Stick around! You're in for a wild ride!
When she is not writing her own books, Kara works as indie publishing and writing consultant. Contact her at contact@karamzone.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
June 21, 2026
Each book in this series just gets more and more intriguing! With all the new twists and turns and character introductions! It has all the feels and emotions too. I’m loving every bit of it!
Thank you to the author and Iris Influencer Society for the eARC of this book!
Thank you to the author and Iris Influencer Society for the eARC of this book!
May 28, 2026
Katelin has had her world rocked again. Finn is being tossed to the wolves (literally).
So much happens in this book, it’s wild!
There was ick, there was humor, there was badassery and boundaries.
I’m so invested in this world. The characters surprise you at every turn. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen - BAM - plot twist!!
So much happens in this book, it’s wild!
There was ick, there was humor, there was badassery and boundaries.
I’m so invested in this world. The characters surprise you at every turn. Just when you think you know what’s going to happen - BAM - plot twist!!
June 20, 2026
4.75⭐️ but it was a 5⭐️ until the last page. I really loved this even though there were moments I was screaming at Finn and others I was screaming at Kaitlin. The Asheborne family is just like so complicated and the way they added to the story was taxing but also so good. Finn finally got the chance to experience some stuff he never had before and I loved that for him but I also didn’t completely want it to happen because I felt like it put his relationship with Kaitlin at risk. I loved how openly they communicated with each other and how maturely they dealt with their feelings. There were some great reunions in this that I really enjoyed. Finn and Kaitlin’s magic is at an all time high through this and they’re honestly super impressive. There’s some great spicy scenes in this. The battle scenes are freakin’ fantastic. The side characters were so great. Cassie is so funny. The only reason I took anything off my 5 ⭐️ rating is because this ended on a cliffhanger and I was under the impression all my questions would be answered. Regardless of that, I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to whatever comes next.
June 24, 2026
Wow, this book was a doozy. There was so much going on here. Kaitlin and Finn make an amazing couple and level up their relationship and their power. It was a great addition to the plot to see some of the ways they struggled emotionally, physically and mentally throughout this part of the story. There is so much action and I loved how the world building is just setting us up for a lot more story. As will the previous books, it hits you with that cliffhanger at the ending.
June 4, 2026
Thanks to the author for the ARC!
This third book in the series might be my favorite because I love how much Finn and Kaitlin grow in this one. While they’re literally learning so much - Kaitlin because of her memories and Finn because of his parents past, they are also deciding who they are.
I really appreciate the way the characters that we are introduced to also quickly find their footing.
Definitely this is not a book you read without the first two as you need to understand the world first so if you haven’t read from the beginning, go back and do so!
This third book in the series might be my favorite because I love how much Finn and Kaitlin grow in this one. While they’re literally learning so much - Kaitlin because of her memories and Finn because of his parents past, they are also deciding who they are.
I really appreciate the way the characters that we are introduced to also quickly find their footing.
Definitely this is not a book you read without the first two as you need to understand the world first so if you haven’t read from the beginning, go back and do so!
June 21, 2026
⭐ 4.75 out of 5 stars
I thought I knew where this book was headed, but then it veered to some stuff I wasn't expecting. There is so much packed into this one that I actually caught myself flipping back a couple times just to make sure I hadn't missed something. Not a complaint, since I was eating it up.
Finn and Katelin really go through it here, but watching them figure things out together is still one of the biggest reasons I keep picking up the next book. Then you throw the Ashbornes into the mix and everything gets messier.
This world feels so much bigger now. New magic, new history, new places. Instead of feeling overwhelming, it made me want to keep exploring.
That ending wasn't quite what I saw coming, but I'm not disappointed. There are still a lot of directions this story could go, and I'm already curious what Kara M. Zone has planned next.
I thought I knew where this book was headed, but then it veered to some stuff I wasn't expecting. There is so much packed into this one that I actually caught myself flipping back a couple times just to make sure I hadn't missed something. Not a complaint, since I was eating it up.
Finn and Katelin really go through it here, but watching them figure things out together is still one of the biggest reasons I keep picking up the next book. Then you throw the Ashbornes into the mix and everything gets messier.
This world feels so much bigger now. New magic, new history, new places. Instead of feeling overwhelming, it made me want to keep exploring.
That ending wasn't quite what I saw coming, but I'm not disappointed. There are still a lot of directions this story could go, and I'm already curious what Kara M. Zone has planned next.
May 25, 2026
With every new book in this series I love it more and more! The author makes it very easy to connect with these characters and the real life issues they deal with all while incorporating the fantasy aspect of the story into their lives. And she manages to do this seamlessly. Just so well written that I can’t put these books down.
June 20, 2026
I have been eagerly waiting for Only Embers Remain ever since I finished the previous book, and Kara M. Zone did not disappoint. One of my favorite things about this series is how seamlessly each book picks up where the last one left off, making it easy to dive right back into the story.
This book introduces several new characters, and one thing Kara M. Zone consistently excels at is character and world building. Every new character serves a purpose, adding depth to the story rather than simply appearing out of nowhere. The world continues to expand in meaningful ways, making it feel rich and well thought out.
Only Embers Remain is packed with shocking truths, unexpected twists, and nonstop action from beginning to end. With Kaitlin's grandmother missing and her mother trapped in a coma, Kaitlin is left searching for answers, not only about what's happening around her, but about who she truly is. Throughout the story, she's tested emotionally and physically while being surrounded by people who want to protect her. Yet all Kaitlin wants is the chance to figure things out for herself and discover her own path.
At the same time, Kaitlin and Finn's relationship is pushed to its limits. They face challenge after challenge, forcing them to confront difficult truths about themselves and each other. Finn's growing desire for a pack adds another layer of complexity to their journey, and I found myself constantly wondering how everything would ultimately unfold.
Kaitlin and Finn are an absolute powerhouse couple, but this book throws obstacle after obstacle in their way. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, desperate to know if they could survive everything coming at them. The suspense, action, and emotional stakes kept me completely invested until the very last page.
This book introduces several new characters, and one thing Kara M. Zone consistently excels at is character and world building. Every new character serves a purpose, adding depth to the story rather than simply appearing out of nowhere. The world continues to expand in meaningful ways, making it feel rich and well thought out.
Only Embers Remain is packed with shocking truths, unexpected twists, and nonstop action from beginning to end. With Kaitlin's grandmother missing and her mother trapped in a coma, Kaitlin is left searching for answers, not only about what's happening around her, but about who she truly is. Throughout the story, she's tested emotionally and physically while being surrounded by people who want to protect her. Yet all Kaitlin wants is the chance to figure things out for herself and discover her own path.
At the same time, Kaitlin and Finn's relationship is pushed to its limits. They face challenge after challenge, forcing them to confront difficult truths about themselves and each other. Finn's growing desire for a pack adds another layer of complexity to their journey, and I found myself constantly wondering how everything would ultimately unfold.
Kaitlin and Finn are an absolute powerhouse couple, but this book throws obstacle after obstacle in their way. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, desperate to know if they could survive everything coming at them. The suspense, action, and emotional stakes kept me completely invested until the very last page.
June 20, 2026
Kara M. Zone once again delivers a story filled with shocking secrets and emotional character growth. Only Embers Remain is such an addictive romantasy.
It is filled with tension, especially because you have the need to read the next one with the cliffhanger ending of the book. I can’t get enough of their works at this point. If you are a fan of powerful world-building and unforgettable twists, then this series is for you. It has so much action and drama packed into its lore. I go crazy for romance fantasy books that have depth in them. The world-building explains what was already said in prior books, while adding new elements. Honestly? I do not think my review can do justice to this book or the series as a whole. That is how much I love it! I just couldn’t put the book down. I ended up reading it a second time because how good this book in the series was.
The multiple POVs add depth to the story by revealing the characters' thoughts, while giving us a chance to see how each character develops. I loved the different POVs between Finn and Kaithin. The duo continues to shine as new revelations and magical mysteries come to light as they work through prophecies. Through this journey, long-buried truths come to light for each member of the group. I still love Finn. Team Finn all the way, baby. His part had me gripping my chair, waiting to see how he’ll handle events (other wolves and packs) to find his way through. The Keithin went through difficult situations as well when trying to connect with the Ashbrone head.
It is filled with tension, especially because you have the need to read the next one with the cliffhanger ending of the book. I can’t get enough of their works at this point. If you are a fan of powerful world-building and unforgettable twists, then this series is for you. It has so much action and drama packed into its lore. I go crazy for romance fantasy books that have depth in them. The world-building explains what was already said in prior books, while adding new elements. Honestly? I do not think my review can do justice to this book or the series as a whole. That is how much I love it! I just couldn’t put the book down. I ended up reading it a second time because how good this book in the series was.
The multiple POVs add depth to the story by revealing the characters' thoughts, while giving us a chance to see how each character develops. I loved the different POVs between Finn and Kaithin. The duo continues to shine as new revelations and magical mysteries come to light as they work through prophecies. Through this journey, long-buried truths come to light for each member of the group. I still love Finn. Team Finn all the way, baby. His part had me gripping my chair, waiting to see how he’ll handle events (other wolves and packs) to find his way through. The Keithin went through difficult situations as well when trying to connect with the Ashbrone head.
June 20, 2026
Thanks to the Author for the early ARC!
First of all, the authors note about mental health and intimacy was a nice touch! I feel like people will appreciate it as I did.
Now onto the Book!
It took me a minute to wrap my head back around the world and everyone in it but thats more on me not re reading the first two and just diving straight in! But I do think you need to read this as a series as nothing will make sense otherwise haha.
I really love the world Kara has built with the realms, portal magic, fae and dragons! I also like the shifter aspect is now coming through more also and it feels like every character will get their own story while being interconnected. I am also loving the little bit of poly rep, which is rare!
There is a lot that happens in this book especially in the last few chapters! I do feel bad for these characters haha, they were just learning to figure out who they were and ofc there are still more evils working against them. I like that there is a sort of it takes a village vibes and I suspect it will take everyone working in tandem to truly defeat the powers that be.
I am super looking forward to seeing where this story continues to go and supporting Kara in her work!
First of all, the authors note about mental health and intimacy was a nice touch! I feel like people will appreciate it as I did.
Now onto the Book!
It took me a minute to wrap my head back around the world and everyone in it but thats more on me not re reading the first two and just diving straight in! But I do think you need to read this as a series as nothing will make sense otherwise haha.
I really love the world Kara has built with the realms, portal magic, fae and dragons! I also like the shifter aspect is now coming through more also and it feels like every character will get their own story while being interconnected. I am also loving the little bit of poly rep, which is rare!
There is a lot that happens in this book especially in the last few chapters! I do feel bad for these characters haha, they were just learning to figure out who they were and ofc there are still more evils working against them. I like that there is a sort of it takes a village vibes and I suspect it will take everyone working in tandem to truly defeat the powers that be.
I am super looking forward to seeing where this story continues to go and supporting Kara in her work!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2026
I do not know where to start with this review, because the ending left me speechless. So many things happened in this book, I feel as overwhelmed as Kaitlin. I really look up to her courage, resilience, bravery, independence, and many other things. So much happened and I do not want to spoil everything so I am going to stick with saying that I love every character was so resilient but at the same time when they were vulnerable there was someone always there to guide them and support them. I really enjoy the team work and the bonds that they all had together, including Cassie despie she been the only human in the group. I think it was perfect that even though she was magicless, she was still fundamental on the process of discovering more about the prophecy and she thrived in the magical world. I also love Garret and his charisma, can't wait to have more of him. I have an idea of who the 5th person is now in the prophecy but I believe there is even more that will be substantial in fulfilling the prophecy. My heart is broken with that ending, and the wait for the next book will be awful, specially when I mistakenly though it was a trilogy.
June 20, 2026
Thank you to Kara M Zone for the privilege of being part of your “Only Embers Remain” ARC Team.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Only Embers Remain”. It’s a very transformative book for both Kaitlin and Finn as they have to grow into themselves and the life they will have which puts strain on their relationship.
The tension of what will happen is palpable throughout the book. With Finn exploring life as a shifter and missing being part of a pack and while Kaitlin is finally able to be with her dad again in the Emberlands there is so many emotions in this story arc for them. Not to mention the mystery of the prophecy, who the other major player in the prophecy is, and who all was part of the medicine Kaitlin was taking and is using it on other people.
Seeing Finn and Kaitlin grow into themselves to become stronger is so bittersweet and makes the ending even more intense since it leaves you on a cliffhanger that makes you wish book four was out already!
I can’t do this book justice in my summary, but I highly recommend it and the rest in the series. I love Kara’s writing and am so glad to be part of her team.
I thoroughly enjoyed “Only Embers Remain”. It’s a very transformative book for both Kaitlin and Finn as they have to grow into themselves and the life they will have which puts strain on their relationship.
The tension of what will happen is palpable throughout the book. With Finn exploring life as a shifter and missing being part of a pack and while Kaitlin is finally able to be with her dad again in the Emberlands there is so many emotions in this story arc for them. Not to mention the mystery of the prophecy, who the other major player in the prophecy is, and who all was part of the medicine Kaitlin was taking and is using it on other people.
Seeing Finn and Kaitlin grow into themselves to become stronger is so bittersweet and makes the ending even more intense since it leaves you on a cliffhanger that makes you wish book four was out already!
I can’t do this book justice in my summary, but I highly recommend it and the rest in the series. I love Kara’s writing and am so glad to be part of her team.
June 20, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
As someone who has enjoyed following the Trium Perfectum series, Only Embers Remain was a great continuation of the journey. Kara M. Zone does a wonderful job of pulling readers back into this magical world while continuing to develop the characters and their relationships in meaningful ways.
What I loved most about this book was seeing how much Kaitlin, Finn, and Max have grown. Their struggles, choices, and emotional moments felt genuine, making it easy to stay invested in their story. The multiple points of view added depth to the narrative and helped me connect with each character on a deeper level.
The mix of magic, adventure, and mystery kept me turning the pages, while the emotional themes added heart to the story. There were a few moments where I wished certain scenes had been explored a little more, but overall, I found myself completely immersed in the world and eager to see where the story would go next.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with magic, strong character development, and a touch of romance, Only Embers Remain is a rewarding read. It’s a solid 4-star addition to the series that left me excited to continue the adventure.
As someone who has enjoyed following the Trium Perfectum series, Only Embers Remain was a great continuation of the journey. Kara M. Zone does a wonderful job of pulling readers back into this magical world while continuing to develop the characters and their relationships in meaningful ways.
What I loved most about this book was seeing how much Kaitlin, Finn, and Max have grown. Their struggles, choices, and emotional moments felt genuine, making it easy to stay invested in their story. The multiple points of view added depth to the narrative and helped me connect with each character on a deeper level.
The mix of magic, adventure, and mystery kept me turning the pages, while the emotional themes added heart to the story. There were a few moments where I wished certain scenes had been explored a little more, but overall, I found myself completely immersed in the world and eager to see where the story would go next.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with magic, strong character development, and a touch of romance, Only Embers Remain is a rewarding read. It’s a solid 4-star addition to the series that left me excited to continue the adventure.
June 20, 2026
I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and voluntarily will be giving my honest review. This book had me from the very beginning to the end! The world building the emotions these characters go through. You feel like you are there with the characters experiencing everything they are. I absolutely loved this series and can’t wait to see what is next!!
“The journey will separate them, but will never keep them apart.
The truth has changed everything.
With Lilith in a coma and their grandmother vanished, Kaitlin and Max Gilbert are thrust into a world of power, estates, and secrets they were never meant to inherit. As the Resistance quietly moves to expose what’s hidden inside Gilbert Enterprises, Kaitlin is given a dangerous assignment: get close to Tanner Asheborne—the head of one of the most formidable magical families in existence.
But the Ashebornes are already watching.”
“The journey will separate them, but will never keep them apart.
The truth has changed everything.
With Lilith in a coma and their grandmother vanished, Kaitlin and Max Gilbert are thrust into a world of power, estates, and secrets they were never meant to inherit. As the Resistance quietly moves to expose what’s hidden inside Gilbert Enterprises, Kaitlin is given a dangerous assignment: get close to Tanner Asheborne—the head of one of the most formidable magical families in existence.
But the Ashebornes are already watching.”
June 20, 2026
When I finished the second book, I didn’t know what to expect from this one, and it totally surprised me. Kait is struggling to live a “free” life, but the prophecy and her past are impossible to avoid. Finn gets the opportunity to meet more people like him and begins to experience all kinds of things related to his shifter side.
Their friendship continues to evolve in such a lovely way, and new characters start to emerge.
The villains (yes, villains) make the story even more compelling: you’re constantly waiting to see what they’ll do next.
This series is a true adventure, where the characters go through many situations as they confront the past, the present, and the future.
I totally recommend it, and I can’t wait for more!!
Thank you to the author and IRIS for this ARC copy. This is my honest, voluntarily review.
Their friendship continues to evolve in such a lovely way, and new characters start to emerge.
The villains (yes, villains) make the story even more compelling: you’re constantly waiting to see what they’ll do next.
This series is a true adventure, where the characters go through many situations as they confront the past, the present, and the future.
I totally recommend it, and I can’t wait for more!!
Thank you to the author and IRIS for this ARC copy. This is my honest, voluntarily review.
June 21, 2026
Hello, people!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third book in the Trium Perfectum series.
The protagonists are Kaitlin and Finn. Their chemistry is fantastic, they have immediacy and depth. This also applies to all the characters, who are well-written and very well structured and developed.
The world building is wonderful, fantastic and rich. The plot has suspense, twists, tension and adventure. With the battle scenes winning over even the most demanding readers!
Finally, the author's writing is enchanting, captivating, enjoyable, exciting, fast and unique.
Thank you very much to the author for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
First of all, let me mention that this book is the third book in the Trium Perfectum series.
The protagonists are Kaitlin and Finn. Their chemistry is fantastic, they have immediacy and depth. This also applies to all the characters, who are well-written and very well structured and developed.
The world building is wonderful, fantastic and rich. The plot has suspense, twists, tension and adventure. With the battle scenes winning over even the most demanding readers!
Finally, the author's writing is enchanting, captivating, enjoyable, exciting, fast and unique.
Thank you very much to the author for the eARC!
This is my honest review!
June 27, 2026
Only Embers Remain is such a beautifully complex urban fantasy. What really stuck with me was how well the author shows the human side of these characters, even with all the magical realism interwoven. The trauma representation is raw and messy, but it carries this beautiful message that we are all still worthy and deserving of love (an important message!)
There is so much drama packed into this book! Honestly, it felt a little overwhelming at times to keep up with the massive web of character connections and plotlines, but the world itself is incredibly creative. You get shifters, fated magic, and even a dragon layered right alongside the real world.
If you love urban fantasy with high-stakes, family secrets, and hidden magical worlds, you’ll want to pick this one up!
There is so much drama packed into this book! Honestly, it felt a little overwhelming at times to keep up with the massive web of character connections and plotlines, but the world itself is incredibly creative. You get shifters, fated magic, and even a dragon layered right alongside the real world.
If you love urban fantasy with high-stakes, family secrets, and hidden magical worlds, you’ll want to pick this one up!
June 20, 2026
Only Embers Remain is another incredible installment in the Trium Perfectum Series. I continue to love Kaitlin and Finn's world and the deep connection they share. Even as they're pulled onto separate paths, their bond only grows stronger, making their story even more compelling.
Kara M. Zone knows exactly how to keep readers hooked, delivering twist after twist that I never saw coming. And that ending? Absolutely shocking! I closed the book needing answers and already desperate for more. If you've been following this series, prepare yourself because this one will leave you reeling.
Kara M. Zone knows exactly how to keep readers hooked, delivering twist after twist that I never saw coming. And that ending? Absolutely shocking! I closed the book needing answers and already desperate for more. If you've been following this series, prepare yourself because this one will leave you reeling.
June 20, 2026
Kaitlin & Finn!!! What a power couple they're growing into!
This is book 3 in the Trium Perfectum Series and oh my...it just keeps amping up! The two have been together nonstop but now they have to separate to find more about themselves and the worlds they live in. The growth that these two characters show is amazing. You can really feel their emotions as they process everything they find out. As always, the ending keeps you begging for more.
This is book 3 in the Trium Perfectum Series and oh my...it just keeps amping up! The two have been together nonstop but now they have to separate to find more about themselves and the worlds they live in. The growth that these two characters show is amazing. You can really feel their emotions as they process everything they find out. As always, the ending keeps you begging for more.
June 26, 2026
Kara did it again! I really do love this series so much, I just get lost in the story. Kaitlin and Finn's relationship has gotten stronger and so has their powers. But something the came around out of nowhere is testing how powerful their relationship is. Kaitlin doesn't know what or who she can trust. Now we have Ashborne family sliding into this story and I just can't stand them. BUT there are some amazing side characters that I adore. I loved the twists and turns, not knowing what the hell is going to happen next. It starts to get really good and then BAM cliffhanger!!!! 😭
June 30, 2026
Loved it
July 28, 2026
⚠️ Content warnings: Violence, magical combat, death, grief, traumatic pasts, family separation, loss of loved ones, emotional manipulation, kidnapping/imprisonment, sexual content, injury, blood, psychological distress, and themes of identity and belonging.
If you thought the cliffhangers and emotional wreckage of the first two installments left you breathless, brace yourselves: Only Embers Remain picks up the shattered pieces and immediately throws them into the fire. Coming off the back of Ashes Fall at Dawn, where memories were weaponised, trust was fractured, and our found family was pushed to its absolute limits, book three opens in the brutal aftermath of that fallout. Kara M. Zone doesn't give the reader - or the characters - a moment to catch their breath. The deceptive safety of the past is gone, and Sovereign City feels more perilous and volatile than ever. If the previous books were about trying to escape a burning house, this installment is about surviving the wreckage when only embers remain.
Entering the first Kaitlin chapter feels like such a juxtaposition. The serene atmospheric waterfront dream, the smell of the sea and Grace’s entire demeanour suggest a calm atmosphere for almost relaxation after the dark magical history. But what is shared explains how the difficulty already experience is just an aperitif for the further trials to come.
One of the most compelling aspects of this installment is how deeply we dive into the "canine" elements of the characters' magic. The sheer loyalty, protective instincts, and intricate family pack dynamics instantly reminded me of the profound emotional core found in Sadie Kincaid’s Forged in Blood. While this operates within a more traditional vampire-themed family framework alongside its distinct packs of wolves and witches, both authors capture the exact same gravity of emotional connection. In Only Embers Remain, the pack bond isn't just a magical trait - it is an intense, visceral lifeline. Zone handles these relationships with an emotional depth that makes the stakes feel incredibly high; you aren't just reading about a group of magical allies, you are witnessing an unbreakable, ride-or-die family unit fighting to survive the dark.
As Finn is pulled down his own path in this installment, his arc becomes one of the most compelling - and tense-threads of the story. Drawn deeper into the heart of a powerful canine pack, we see the focus on his animalistic traits take on a far more influential and structural role than ever before. What makes his journey so agonizingly good is the emotional and biological tug-of-war he is caught in. On one side, there is his profound love for Kaitlin. On the other, he experiences an intense, primal pull toward another character who shares those exact same instinctual, canine tendencies.
Zone uses this tension to hint at massive shifts on the horizon - leaving readers to wonder if we're heading toward a complex "why choose" dynamic or a massive, explosive clash of loyalties between these interconnected groups. It is a brilliant, high-stakes exploration of nature versus heart that adds a thrilling layer of suspense to every chapter Finn is in. Whilst this is ongoing, the growing layer of psychological tension completely hooked me. We see deeply obscured motives orchestrating a deliberate web of connections - pushing certain people toward Finn while simultaneously setting sights on Kaitlin.
What follows is an incredibly charged atmosphere where the raw, primal tension between these characters ceases to be just about attraction. Instead, it transforms into a dangerous plot for ultimate control and dominance. This blurred line between genuine instinctual pull and calculated manipulation creates an addictive, high-stakes game of chess. It adds an entirely new level of urgency to the pacing, making it absolutely impossible not to race through the chapters to see who is truly pulling the strings and who will succumb to the pressure.
A highly intriguing aspect of the story is the complex and mixed family dynamics. Characters discover siblings they never knew they had, parental relationships are far from straightforward, and the story explores what “family” really means when blood ties and chosen bonds become intertwined. It reminded me of stories like The Wanderer Scorned, where family isn’t a simple family tree but a tangled web of secrets, unexpected connections, and difficult choices.
As Finn is pulled down his own path in this installment, his arc becomes one of the most compelling – and tense-threads of the story. Drawn deeper into the heart of a powerful canine pack, we see the focus on his animalistic traits take on a far more influential and structural role than ever before. What makes his journey so agonizingly good is the emotional and biological tug-of-war he is caught in. On one side, there is his profound love for Kaitlin. On the other, he experiences an intense, primal pull toward another character who shares those exact same instinctual, canine tendencies.
Zone uses this tension to hint at massive shifts on the horizon – leaving readers to wonder if we’re heading toward a complex “why choose” dynamic or a massive, explosive clash of loyalties between these interconnected groups. It is a brilliant, high-stakes exploration of nature versus heart that adds a thrilling layer of suspense to every chapter Finn is in. Whilst this is ongoing, the growing layer of psychological tension completely hooked me. We see deeply obscured motives orchestrating a deliberate web of connections – pushing certain people toward Finn while simultaneously setting sights on Kaitlin.
What follows is an incredibly charged atmosphere where the raw, primal tension between these characters ceases to be just about attraction. Instead, it transforms into a dangerous plot for ultimate control and dominance. This blurred line between genuine instinctual pull and calculated manipulation creates an addictive, high-stakes game of chess. It adds an entirely new level of urgency to the pacing, making it absolutely impossible not to race through the chapters to see who is truly pulling the strings and who will succumb to the pressure.
A highly intriguing aspect of the story is the complex and mixed family dynamics. Characters discover siblings they never knew they had, parental relationships are far from straightforward, and the story explores what “family” really means when blood ties and chosen bonds become intertwined. It reminded me of stories like The Wanderer Scorned, where family isn’t a simple family tree but a tangled web of secrets, unexpected connections, and difficult choices.
As Finn and Kaitlin delve deeper into their respective heritages – with Finn exploring his shifter side and Kaitlin navigating her fae roots – the stark, fascinating differences between them take center stage. While their unique family backgrounds and the Trium Perfectum tie them together, the narrative brilliantly reveals that the connection and growing potential tension between them is far more complex than just external pack politics.
Instead, Zone weaves a parallel between their dynamic and the history of Finn’s parents. It plays beautifully into a classic “opposites attract” theme, but with a dark, chilling twist: it forces us to wonder if the magnetic bond pulling them together is truly natural, or if they are executing the final stages of a legacy plot set in motion by their families generations ago. This brilliant overlap of ancient family secrets, primal instincts, and the terrifying possibility of generational manipulation turns their romance into a high-stakes mystery that is utterly impossible to put down.
For readers who appreciate the technical and stylistic elements of storytelling, Zone utilises a formatting choice that fans of J. E. Storm’s The Spark That Ignites will immediately recognise and appreciate. Whenever Kaitlin experiences dreams, visions, or flashbacks, the text shifts entirely into italic formatting. This classic fantasy convention works beautifully to create an instant visual boundary between the physical present and the ethereal, subconscious, or historical realms without requiring clunky transition phrases. By lending a quiet, whispering, and dreamlike quality to these sequence shifts, the italics perfectly mirror the mysterious nature of Kaitlin’s fae side, allowing the reader to slip effortlessly into her mind and experience the magic without ever losing the story’s natural momentum.
As the narrative charges into its second half, the chapters focusing on Kaitlin and Finn’s individual journeys beautifully emphasize just how fundamentally different they are at their core. While Finn deeply craves the belonging, structure, and connection of a pack, Kaitlin finds herself pulling toward solidarity, grappling with the terrifying but necessary reality of navigating her power on her own. These contrasting desires – one seeking a collective anchor, the other striving to stand alone – combined with their vastly different heritages, create a brilliant magnetic tension. It leaves readers eagerly anticipating the moment their paths inevitably collide again, setting the stage for an incredibly complex, emotionally charged reunion.
As the story sweeps into its final quarter, Zone pulls together the threads of ancestral history, deeply rooted bloodlines, and the long-foretold prophecy to deliver a breathtakingly high-stakes climax. What makes this final stretch so incredibly satisfying is how these grand, overarching legends collide directly with the personal growth of characters who have been building their inner strength and self-development from the very beginning.
Seeing their rise in power become the pivotal anchor for these ancient bloodline legacies is a brilliant narrative payoff. It elevates the tension to an absolute fever pitch, seamlessly blending intimate character arcs with the sweeping lore of the Trium Perfectum series, and leaving readers completely spellbound by how beautifully every piece of the puzzle finally snaps into place.
Favourite characters:
Kaitlin: the emotional heart of the series. I loved watching her embrace her fae heritage while refusing to let it define her. Even when she’s terrified or overwhelmed, she consistently chooses compassion over self-preservation, making her one of those protagonists who is incredibly easy to root for. Her determination to protect others, regardless of the personal cost, makes every victory and setback feel deeply personal.
Finn: watching him struggle between his fiercely loyal heart and the instinctive pull of his canine nature created one of the book’s most compelling internal conflicts. His chapters are packed with emotional tension, and I loved seeing him navigate questions of identity, belonging, and what it truly means to choose your own path.
Max: a wonderfully dependable presence throughout the chaos. While so many characters are pulled in conflicting directions, he provides a sense of stability and loyalty that grounds the story. Whether offering support, stepping into danger without hesitation, or reminding everyone what they’re fighting for, he remains someone I was always happy to see appear on the page.
Favourite quotes:
“Yes. I don’t care about helping the Tribunal. I don’t know anything about the Resistance. But things are happening to other people, other creatures, other beings. I can’t sit around and let it happen. Not when I have the power to stop it.”
“I open my power—even resting, it threads around him. Letting him know I’m here. An anchor. A sliver of hope.”
How it ends:
Fresh off the heels of major revelations regarding the world’s history and the intricacies of the prophecy, the narrative accelerates into a breathless, fiercely violent cascade of events. Zone delivers a whirlwind of explosive magical displays, desperate fights, and shattering secrets that leave the reader completely reeling.
Rather than tying everything up in a neat bow, the story culminates in a series of shocking, deeply emotional moments that leave the characters and the plot balancing on an absolute knife-edge. It is a brilliant, masterfully executed conclusion that doesn’t just leave you desperate for what comes next, but actively compels you to look back and examine the intricate magic systems and deep lore Zone has built. By ending on such a thrillingly incomplete and intense note, the book ensures its mysteries will linger in your mind long after the final page is turned.
Favourite part:
Crossing into the second third of the book brings a massive, sweeping shift in the narrative’s emotional landscape. The unexpected return of someone who has been hidden hits all of the characters and the reader like a physical wave. What follows is a beautifully written, incredibly complex cocktail of joy, fear, sadness, and sheer excitement that ripples through the entire cast.
What makes this moment so powerful is the sheer lack of warning; it is thrown upon everyone with zero notice, yet it is simultaneously something they craved and awaited far more deeply than they even realised. Instead of offering an easy resolution, this reunion brilliantly channels the simmering tension of the book’s first act into an even more confusing, high-stakes, and emotionally complicated situation. It is a fantastic example of character-driven drama that proves how easily the things we hope for can completely upend our world.
Rating out of 5:
Only Embers Remain is everything I wanted from a third installment: darker, bigger, more emotionally devastating, and packed with revelations that completely reshape the series. It raises the stakes in every possible way while still keeping the characters at the heart of the story, and I genuinely cannot wait to see where Kara M. Zone takes this series next. A full five out of five from me!
If you thought the cliffhangers and emotional wreckage of the first two installments left you breathless, brace yourselves: Only Embers Remain picks up the shattered pieces and immediately throws them into the fire. Coming off the back of Ashes Fall at Dawn, where memories were weaponised, trust was fractured, and our found family was pushed to its absolute limits, book three opens in the brutal aftermath of that fallout. Kara M. Zone doesn't give the reader - or the characters - a moment to catch their breath. The deceptive safety of the past is gone, and Sovereign City feels more perilous and volatile than ever. If the previous books were about trying to escape a burning house, this installment is about surviving the wreckage when only embers remain.
Entering the first Kaitlin chapter feels like such a juxtaposition. The serene atmospheric waterfront dream, the smell of the sea and Grace’s entire demeanour suggest a calm atmosphere for almost relaxation after the dark magical history. But what is shared explains how the difficulty already experience is just an aperitif for the further trials to come.
One of the most compelling aspects of this installment is how deeply we dive into the "canine" elements of the characters' magic. The sheer loyalty, protective instincts, and intricate family pack dynamics instantly reminded me of the profound emotional core found in Sadie Kincaid’s Forged in Blood. While this operates within a more traditional vampire-themed family framework alongside its distinct packs of wolves and witches, both authors capture the exact same gravity of emotional connection. In Only Embers Remain, the pack bond isn't just a magical trait - it is an intense, visceral lifeline. Zone handles these relationships with an emotional depth that makes the stakes feel incredibly high; you aren't just reading about a group of magical allies, you are witnessing an unbreakable, ride-or-die family unit fighting to survive the dark.
As Finn is pulled down his own path in this installment, his arc becomes one of the most compelling - and tense-threads of the story. Drawn deeper into the heart of a powerful canine pack, we see the focus on his animalistic traits take on a far more influential and structural role than ever before. What makes his journey so agonizingly good is the emotional and biological tug-of-war he is caught in. On one side, there is his profound love for Kaitlin. On the other, he experiences an intense, primal pull toward another character who shares those exact same instinctual, canine tendencies.
Zone uses this tension to hint at massive shifts on the horizon - leaving readers to wonder if we're heading toward a complex "why choose" dynamic or a massive, explosive clash of loyalties between these interconnected groups. It is a brilliant, high-stakes exploration of nature versus heart that adds a thrilling layer of suspense to every chapter Finn is in. Whilst this is ongoing, the growing layer of psychological tension completely hooked me. We see deeply obscured motives orchestrating a deliberate web of connections - pushing certain people toward Finn while simultaneously setting sights on Kaitlin.
What follows is an incredibly charged atmosphere where the raw, primal tension between these characters ceases to be just about attraction. Instead, it transforms into a dangerous plot for ultimate control and dominance. This blurred line between genuine instinctual pull and calculated manipulation creates an addictive, high-stakes game of chess. It adds an entirely new level of urgency to the pacing, making it absolutely impossible not to race through the chapters to see who is truly pulling the strings and who will succumb to the pressure.
A highly intriguing aspect of the story is the complex and mixed family dynamics. Characters discover siblings they never knew they had, parental relationships are far from straightforward, and the story explores what “family” really means when blood ties and chosen bonds become intertwined. It reminded me of stories like The Wanderer Scorned, where family isn’t a simple family tree but a tangled web of secrets, unexpected connections, and difficult choices.
As Finn is pulled down his own path in this installment, his arc becomes one of the most compelling – and tense-threads of the story. Drawn deeper into the heart of a powerful canine pack, we see the focus on his animalistic traits take on a far more influential and structural role than ever before. What makes his journey so agonizingly good is the emotional and biological tug-of-war he is caught in. On one side, there is his profound love for Kaitlin. On the other, he experiences an intense, primal pull toward another character who shares those exact same instinctual, canine tendencies.
Zone uses this tension to hint at massive shifts on the horizon – leaving readers to wonder if we’re heading toward a complex “why choose” dynamic or a massive, explosive clash of loyalties between these interconnected groups. It is a brilliant, high-stakes exploration of nature versus heart that adds a thrilling layer of suspense to every chapter Finn is in. Whilst this is ongoing, the growing layer of psychological tension completely hooked me. We see deeply obscured motives orchestrating a deliberate web of connections – pushing certain people toward Finn while simultaneously setting sights on Kaitlin.
What follows is an incredibly charged atmosphere where the raw, primal tension between these characters ceases to be just about attraction. Instead, it transforms into a dangerous plot for ultimate control and dominance. This blurred line between genuine instinctual pull and calculated manipulation creates an addictive, high-stakes game of chess. It adds an entirely new level of urgency to the pacing, making it absolutely impossible not to race through the chapters to see who is truly pulling the strings and who will succumb to the pressure.
A highly intriguing aspect of the story is the complex and mixed family dynamics. Characters discover siblings they never knew they had, parental relationships are far from straightforward, and the story explores what “family” really means when blood ties and chosen bonds become intertwined. It reminded me of stories like The Wanderer Scorned, where family isn’t a simple family tree but a tangled web of secrets, unexpected connections, and difficult choices.
As Finn and Kaitlin delve deeper into their respective heritages – with Finn exploring his shifter side and Kaitlin navigating her fae roots – the stark, fascinating differences between them take center stage. While their unique family backgrounds and the Trium Perfectum tie them together, the narrative brilliantly reveals that the connection and growing potential tension between them is far more complex than just external pack politics.
Instead, Zone weaves a parallel between their dynamic and the history of Finn’s parents. It plays beautifully into a classic “opposites attract” theme, but with a dark, chilling twist: it forces us to wonder if the magnetic bond pulling them together is truly natural, or if they are executing the final stages of a legacy plot set in motion by their families generations ago. This brilliant overlap of ancient family secrets, primal instincts, and the terrifying possibility of generational manipulation turns their romance into a high-stakes mystery that is utterly impossible to put down.
For readers who appreciate the technical and stylistic elements of storytelling, Zone utilises a formatting choice that fans of J. E. Storm’s The Spark That Ignites will immediately recognise and appreciate. Whenever Kaitlin experiences dreams, visions, or flashbacks, the text shifts entirely into italic formatting. This classic fantasy convention works beautifully to create an instant visual boundary between the physical present and the ethereal, subconscious, or historical realms without requiring clunky transition phrases. By lending a quiet, whispering, and dreamlike quality to these sequence shifts, the italics perfectly mirror the mysterious nature of Kaitlin’s fae side, allowing the reader to slip effortlessly into her mind and experience the magic without ever losing the story’s natural momentum.
As the narrative charges into its second half, the chapters focusing on Kaitlin and Finn’s individual journeys beautifully emphasize just how fundamentally different they are at their core. While Finn deeply craves the belonging, structure, and connection of a pack, Kaitlin finds herself pulling toward solidarity, grappling with the terrifying but necessary reality of navigating her power on her own. These contrasting desires – one seeking a collective anchor, the other striving to stand alone – combined with their vastly different heritages, create a brilliant magnetic tension. It leaves readers eagerly anticipating the moment their paths inevitably collide again, setting the stage for an incredibly complex, emotionally charged reunion.
As the story sweeps into its final quarter, Zone pulls together the threads of ancestral history, deeply rooted bloodlines, and the long-foretold prophecy to deliver a breathtakingly high-stakes climax. What makes this final stretch so incredibly satisfying is how these grand, overarching legends collide directly with the personal growth of characters who have been building their inner strength and self-development from the very beginning.
Seeing their rise in power become the pivotal anchor for these ancient bloodline legacies is a brilliant narrative payoff. It elevates the tension to an absolute fever pitch, seamlessly blending intimate character arcs with the sweeping lore of the Trium Perfectum series, and leaving readers completely spellbound by how beautifully every piece of the puzzle finally snaps into place.
Favourite characters:
Kaitlin: the emotional heart of the series. I loved watching her embrace her fae heritage while refusing to let it define her. Even when she’s terrified or overwhelmed, she consistently chooses compassion over self-preservation, making her one of those protagonists who is incredibly easy to root for. Her determination to protect others, regardless of the personal cost, makes every victory and setback feel deeply personal.
Finn: watching him struggle between his fiercely loyal heart and the instinctive pull of his canine nature created one of the book’s most compelling internal conflicts. His chapters are packed with emotional tension, and I loved seeing him navigate questions of identity, belonging, and what it truly means to choose your own path.
Max: a wonderfully dependable presence throughout the chaos. While so many characters are pulled in conflicting directions, he provides a sense of stability and loyalty that grounds the story. Whether offering support, stepping into danger without hesitation, or reminding everyone what they’re fighting for, he remains someone I was always happy to see appear on the page.
Favourite quotes:
“Yes. I don’t care about helping the Tribunal. I don’t know anything about the Resistance. But things are happening to other people, other creatures, other beings. I can’t sit around and let it happen. Not when I have the power to stop it.”
“I open my power—even resting, it threads around him. Letting him know I’m here. An anchor. A sliver of hope.”
How it ends:
Fresh off the heels of major revelations regarding the world’s history and the intricacies of the prophecy, the narrative accelerates into a breathless, fiercely violent cascade of events. Zone delivers a whirlwind of explosive magical displays, desperate fights, and shattering secrets that leave the reader completely reeling.
Rather than tying everything up in a neat bow, the story culminates in a series of shocking, deeply emotional moments that leave the characters and the plot balancing on an absolute knife-edge. It is a brilliant, masterfully executed conclusion that doesn’t just leave you desperate for what comes next, but actively compels you to look back and examine the intricate magic systems and deep lore Zone has built. By ending on such a thrillingly incomplete and intense note, the book ensures its mysteries will linger in your mind long after the final page is turned.
Favourite part:
Crossing into the second third of the book brings a massive, sweeping shift in the narrative’s emotional landscape. The unexpected return of someone who has been hidden hits all of the characters and the reader like a physical wave. What follows is a beautifully written, incredibly complex cocktail of joy, fear, sadness, and sheer excitement that ripples through the entire cast.
What makes this moment so powerful is the sheer lack of warning; it is thrown upon everyone with zero notice, yet it is simultaneously something they craved and awaited far more deeply than they even realised. Instead of offering an easy resolution, this reunion brilliantly channels the simmering tension of the book’s first act into an even more confusing, high-stakes, and emotionally complicated situation. It is a fantastic example of character-driven drama that proves how easily the things we hope for can completely upend our world.
Rating out of 5:
Only Embers Remain is everything I wanted from a third installment: darker, bigger, more emotionally devastating, and packed with revelations that completely reshape the series. It raises the stakes in every possible way while still keeping the characters at the heart of the story, and I genuinely cannot wait to see where Kara M. Zone takes this series next. A full five out of five from me!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2026
I am so invested in this series. I'm loving the extended found family (and Grace most of all!). I am enjoying the twists and turns of the series. It is definitely putting my emotions through the ringer. I just want some peace and happiness for them!! I can't wait to read the next one.
May 26, 2026
Mental health rep
Portal magic
Real world/fae cross over
Protective hero’s
Baddy FMC
Secrets/lies and prophecies
Stolen memories
Found family
Shifters
Fated bonds
Brothers best friend
LGBTQ
“Begging is nothing. For you, I would crawl. You’ve had me on my knees for a while.”
I was completely hooked from the start! There was so much going on with the memories and the bond with family and trying to save the world! Some new powers coming in, and characters, the high stakes. I was pulled, and immersed in the story! I really loved connecting with the characters and the story is just written so well! I loved seeing Finn come into his own. And another cliffhanger! Gah I’m impatient for the next book!
"I'm very happy to know you, but your life is twisted as f^€k."
"Being tied up and thrown in a ☠️ basement by your ev!l grandmother almost makes it worth it right now."
"And here I thought all you wonderful magical folk could just click your fingers and make things appear like lightning. Or fire,"
Portal magic
Real world/fae cross over
Protective hero’s
Baddy FMC
Secrets/lies and prophecies
Stolen memories
Found family
Shifters
Fated bonds
Brothers best friend
LGBTQ
“Begging is nothing. For you, I would crawl. You’ve had me on my knees for a while.”
I was completely hooked from the start! There was so much going on with the memories and the bond with family and trying to save the world! Some new powers coming in, and characters, the high stakes. I was pulled, and immersed in the story! I really loved connecting with the characters and the story is just written so well! I loved seeing Finn come into his own. And another cliffhanger! Gah I’m impatient for the next book!
"I'm very happy to know you, but your life is twisted as f^€k."
"Being tied up and thrown in a ☠️ basement by your ev!l grandmother almost makes it worth it right now."
"And here I thought all you wonderful magical folk could just click your fingers and make things appear like lightning. Or fire,"
July 4, 2026
The mystery continues to grow with each new installment of this series!
I'm glad that both Kaitlin and Finn were able to explore parts of their past that were kept from them for their whole lives. And doing it alone allowed them to really explore and learn about themselves.
However, I spent quite a lot of this story SCREAMING at Finn at treading the line of cheating. Especially knowing what Tanner Asheborne is trying to do. I'm glad there was more than one person that was angry with him before Kaitlin found out. I had to keep reminding myself that Finn is in college, therefore very young and prone to making stupid decisions and trying to rationalize things so he doesn't get in trouble. And while Kaitlin seemed to be little more flirty this story with people who were not Finn, she definitely was a long way away from crossing lines, unlike Finn. Even after hearing from Rowan that this is more normal than they realize with shifters, I'm glad that Kaitlin didn't just let him off the hook. She was genuinely upset with him, and he finally seemed to feel remorse for what happened. The deleted scene with Reagan and Kaitlin was very nice to see, so Reagan's outrage at Finn seemed more fitting. It's also understandable to have it as a deleted scene, I can see how it could've disrupted the flow of the story if it was plopped in where it fit.
And oh, what an ending! Getting attacked, getting kidnapped (again) though at least Kaitlin wasn't alone, only to find out that Aiden is the one in need of rescuing this time. The devastation from Max when he couldn't feel their trium perfectum bond anymore! Kara, you did not make me love these characters with your novella An Accidental Faerie Tale, only to take him away in the next book! It wasn't just in his novella, but truly I've loved Aiden since we met him in book 1, with him trying to get to know Kaitlin and be a safe space for her. I hope it's not too long before we find him again.
If you love a romantic fantasy with mental health rep, portal magic, bad ass FMC, protective heroes, shifters, secrets & lies, brother’s best friend, stolen memories, found family, real-world/fae crossover, LGBTQ, and fated bonds, then you need to check out Only Embers Remain!
I received an advanced review copy from the author. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
I'm glad that both Kaitlin and Finn were able to explore parts of their past that were kept from them for their whole lives. And doing it alone allowed them to really explore and learn about themselves.
However, I spent quite a lot of this story SCREAMING at Finn at treading the line of cheating. Especially knowing what Tanner Asheborne is trying to do. I'm glad there was more than one person that was angry with him before Kaitlin found out. I had to keep reminding myself that Finn is in college, therefore very young and prone to making stupid decisions and trying to rationalize things so he doesn't get in trouble. And while Kaitlin seemed to be little more flirty this story with people who were not Finn, she definitely was a long way away from crossing lines, unlike Finn. Even after hearing from Rowan that this is more normal than they realize with shifters, I'm glad that Kaitlin didn't just let him off the hook. She was genuinely upset with him, and he finally seemed to feel remorse for what happened. The deleted scene with Reagan and Kaitlin was very nice to see, so Reagan's outrage at Finn seemed more fitting. It's also understandable to have it as a deleted scene, I can see how it could've disrupted the flow of the story if it was plopped in where it fit.
And oh, what an ending! Getting attacked, getting kidnapped (again) though at least Kaitlin wasn't alone, only to find out that Aiden is the one in need of rescuing this time. The devastation from Max when he couldn't feel their trium perfectum bond anymore! Kara, you did not make me love these characters with your novella An Accidental Faerie Tale, only to take him away in the next book! It wasn't just in his novella, but truly I've loved Aiden since we met him in book 1, with him trying to get to know Kaitlin and be a safe space for her. I hope it's not too long before we find him again.
If you love a romantic fantasy with mental health rep, portal magic, bad ass FMC, protective heroes, shifters, secrets & lies, brother’s best friend, stolen memories, found family, real-world/fae crossover, LGBTQ, and fated bonds, then you need to check out Only Embers Remain!
I received an advanced review copy from the author. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kaitlyn defeated her mother and got her grandmother’s staff. But that’s not the end of things for her, Finn, Max and Aiden. Now that Lilith is in a coma, Max and Kaitlyn own her company and they can try to find out all the terrible things they’ve been hiding. But to do that, Kaitlyn must get close to Tanner Ashborne, which puts Finn in the crosshairs of his daughter, Stasia. While navigating that delicate situation, Max and Kaitlyn’s dad returns with crazy family news and they both begin remembering parts of their childhood in another realm.
Kaitlyn is pushed even farther in this book as she confronts the truth of her childhood. Knowing now that her father didn’t willingly leave them. Both her and Max must come to terms with that. Kaitlyn is also dealing with everyone wanting to constantly be around her and protect her, while she just wants some time to herself, time she desperately needs to deal with not only the trauma of her childhood but also remembering the good parts as well. While Kaitlyn is gone, Finn has to figure out how to navigate his wolf’s instincts when he tries to get info from Tanner Ashborne’s home with the pack there. He’s never been around a pack and that is definitely new territory for him as his alpha comes to the surface.
There is a lot of information given in this book and at times it got a little overwhelming. There is so much to learn about the evil plot that has been a long time in the making. We also get a lot of family background on the Gilbert’s and even the Avery’s. This book is definitely more about character and background development with some faster paced action towards the end. We learn a lot about the Trine and the Triur and find out about the prophecy surrounding the MC’s. We also figure out what the deal is with Tanner with some terrible consequences.
There are events talked about in this book that happen in one of the novellas, Ever After. I have read that story, so I knew what was going on, but I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary if you haven’t read it yet. (But it wouldn’t hurt to read it either!)
Kaitlyn is pushed even farther in this book as she confronts the truth of her childhood. Knowing now that her father didn’t willingly leave them. Both her and Max must come to terms with that. Kaitlyn is also dealing with everyone wanting to constantly be around her and protect her, while she just wants some time to herself, time she desperately needs to deal with not only the trauma of her childhood but also remembering the good parts as well. While Kaitlyn is gone, Finn has to figure out how to navigate his wolf’s instincts when he tries to get info from Tanner Ashborne’s home with the pack there. He’s never been around a pack and that is definitely new territory for him as his alpha comes to the surface.
There is a lot of information given in this book and at times it got a little overwhelming. There is so much to learn about the evil plot that has been a long time in the making. We also get a lot of family background on the Gilbert’s and even the Avery’s. This book is definitely more about character and background development with some faster paced action towards the end. We learn a lot about the Trine and the Triur and find out about the prophecy surrounding the MC’s. We also figure out what the deal is with Tanner with some terrible consequences.
There are events talked about in this book that happen in one of the novellas, Ever After. I have read that story, so I knew what was going on, but I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary if you haven’t read it yet. (But it wouldn’t hurt to read it either!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, I love Kara’s books and after meeting her at an event in February, I can honestly say she seems like such a lovely person! I thoroughly enjoyed Cinders Burn at Midnight and Ashes Fall at Dawn but I must be honest and say that Only Embers Remain was not my favorite book of the series thus far.
Kara writes in a way that has left me emotionally attached to the characters, evoking strong emotional responses at times. When they do things that I do not care for, I feel irritated as if someone I know is doing it! Some things happened that left me feeling this way and at times, it was hard for me to pick the book back up because I was mad. But the character journey not aligning with how I foresaw it going does not make a bad book.
The second half of the book was my favorite. Once I was able to move past being angry at fictional characters, I was sucked back into the story. I feel as though there was a good balance of action and plot, with some lovey-dovey (and spicy) things mixed in between and an ending that I did not see coming. New people are introduced, some I really enjoy, and old friends are here for continued development of their characters and the overall story line.
Lastly, as a licensed clinical social worker who works with individuals experiencing various mental health issues every day, I'd like to comment on the mental health representation in the book. I appreciate how flashbacks and difficulties with expressing needs and emotions to loved ones after trauma were conveyed in the book. Sometimes in romance and romantasy, I feel like trauma is kind of glossed over, like this horrific thing happened but now we’re in love and having crazy sex everywhere, so who is thinking about that right? It is never really that simple.
All in all, I would definitely recommend the book and anticipate reading it again as the next book(s) in the series are released in the future!
Kara writes in a way that has left me emotionally attached to the characters, evoking strong emotional responses at times. When they do things that I do not care for, I feel irritated as if someone I know is doing it! Some things happened that left me feeling this way and at times, it was hard for me to pick the book back up because I was mad. But the character journey not aligning with how I foresaw it going does not make a bad book.
The second half of the book was my favorite. Once I was able to move past being angry at fictional characters, I was sucked back into the story. I feel as though there was a good balance of action and plot, with some lovey-dovey (and spicy) things mixed in between and an ending that I did not see coming. New people are introduced, some I really enjoy, and old friends are here for continued development of their characters and the overall story line.
Lastly, as a licensed clinical social worker who works with individuals experiencing various mental health issues every day, I'd like to comment on the mental health representation in the book. I appreciate how flashbacks and difficulties with expressing needs and emotions to loved ones after trauma were conveyed in the book. Sometimes in romance and romantasy, I feel like trauma is kind of glossed over, like this horrific thing happened but now we’re in love and having crazy sex everywhere, so who is thinking about that right? It is never really that simple.
All in all, I would definitely recommend the book and anticipate reading it again as the next book(s) in the series are released in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Only Embers Remain
By Kara M. Zone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve been following this series since the very first book, and watching it evolve into something this layered and powerful has been such a rewarding experience. What started as a story rooted in mystery and hidden magic has grown into a complex world of powerful dynasties, resistance movements, and long-buried truths—and this installment raises the stakes in every possible way. Kaitlin’s journey, especially with her hidden magical legacy and fractured past, feels like a natural and compelling continuation of everything she’s endured up to this point. Seeing how the earlier threads—family secrets, prophetic hints, and the looming influence of Gilbert Enterprises—finally start coming together here is incredibly satisfying.
This is easily a 5-star read for me, not just because of the plot, but because of how deeply personal it feels. Finn’s arc hit especially hard—I loved watching him grapple with identity and belonging within the pack hierarchy, while Kaitlin’s path toward dragons, lost bloodlines, and destiny feels both epic and emotional. The author’s writing is truly exceptional—immersive, vivid, and sharp, with a way of making every reveal feel earned and every relationship matter. You can feel the weight of everything these characters have been through across the series, and it makes this chapter all the more impactful. If you’ve been on this journey from the beginning like I have, this book feels like everything finally catching fire—and I absolutely cannot wait to see what burns next.
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
By Kara M. Zone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve been following this series since the very first book, and watching it evolve into something this layered and powerful has been such a rewarding experience. What started as a story rooted in mystery and hidden magic has grown into a complex world of powerful dynasties, resistance movements, and long-buried truths—and this installment raises the stakes in every possible way. Kaitlin’s journey, especially with her hidden magical legacy and fractured past, feels like a natural and compelling continuation of everything she’s endured up to this point. Seeing how the earlier threads—family secrets, prophetic hints, and the looming influence of Gilbert Enterprises—finally start coming together here is incredibly satisfying.
This is easily a 5-star read for me, not just because of the plot, but because of how deeply personal it feels. Finn’s arc hit especially hard—I loved watching him grapple with identity and belonging within the pack hierarchy, while Kaitlin’s path toward dragons, lost bloodlines, and destiny feels both epic and emotional. The author’s writing is truly exceptional—immersive, vivid, and sharp, with a way of making every reveal feel earned and every relationship matter. You can feel the weight of everything these characters have been through across the series, and it makes this chapter all the more impactful. If you’ve been on this journey from the beginning like I have, this book feels like everything finally catching fire—and I absolutely cannot wait to see what burns next.
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Emotional stakes, magical world expansion, and layered character arcs.
💬 Review of Advanced Reader Copy.
Only Embers Remain by Kara M. Zone is a powerful continuation of the series that deepens both the emotional intensity and the complexity of its magical world.
This installment pushes Kaitlin, Max, and Finn into new territory—both physically and emotionally—as they navigate inherited power, hidden truths, and fractured loyalties. With Kaitlin drawn into the enigmatic Asheborne world and Finn pulled into a shapeshifter pack dynamic, the story splits its focus in a way that expands the universe significantly.
The prophecy elements and resistance storyline add tension and urgency, while the uncovering of long-buried family secrets keeps the stakes constantly rising. There’s a strong sense that every choice matters, and every path leads to irreversible change.
✨ What stood out:
* prophecy-driven fantasy plot
* magical family dynasties
* resistance vs corporate power themes
* split character journeys
* dragon lore + shapeshifter pack dynamics
* identity and memory exploration
* emotional tension and betrayal
The story does an excellent job of balancing political intrigue with personal discovery, making the fantasy world feel both vast and intimate.
⚠️ Content Warnings
* Violence and magical combat
* Emotional distress and trauma
* Coma and medical crisis themes
* Family loss and disappearance
* Manipulation and betrayal
* War/Resistance conflict themes
💬 Review of Advanced Reader Copy.
Only Embers Remain by Kara M. Zone is a powerful continuation of the series that deepens both the emotional intensity and the complexity of its magical world.
This installment pushes Kaitlin, Max, and Finn into new territory—both physically and emotionally—as they navigate inherited power, hidden truths, and fractured loyalties. With Kaitlin drawn into the enigmatic Asheborne world and Finn pulled into a shapeshifter pack dynamic, the story splits its focus in a way that expands the universe significantly.
The prophecy elements and resistance storyline add tension and urgency, while the uncovering of long-buried family secrets keeps the stakes constantly rising. There’s a strong sense that every choice matters, and every path leads to irreversible change.
✨ What stood out:
* prophecy-driven fantasy plot
* magical family dynasties
* resistance vs corporate power themes
* split character journeys
* dragon lore + shapeshifter pack dynamics
* identity and memory exploration
* emotional tension and betrayal
The story does an excellent job of balancing political intrigue with personal discovery, making the fantasy world feel both vast and intimate.
⚠️ Content Warnings
* Violence and magical combat
* Emotional distress and trauma
* Coma and medical crisis themes
* Family loss and disappearance
* Manipulation and betrayal
* War/Resistance conflict themes
Review of advance copy received from Author
•Thoroughly transfixed, I am all in for this series•
Kara M. Zone has really done it this time. This book left me speechless, eyes wide and brain rendered to the kind of book coma only the best fantasy books can give.
Only Embers Remain is the third book in her Trium Perfectum series, continuing the story of Kaitlin, Finn, Max and Aiden as they dig deeper into memories of their past and discover connections they never knew existed.
This book is fast-moving, plot-driven and very exciting, but there are also moments within where Kara breathes more time and detail into the story as it’s needed. I love the way this pacing had me both on the edge of my seat but also entirely immersed in meaningful scenes.
The multiple POVs give such insight into each character’s development, revealing their inner turmoil and growth as they react to new people and experiences. Kara pays such careful attention to the ages and life experience of her characters. She captures their perspectives so beautifully, carefully crafting their responses to reflect their life journey.
Once again, I am left longing for her next book. I was fortunate to beta and arc read this book, and I loved seeing the changes and nuances that have made it even better. I highly recommend you pick up or continue this series right away- and enjoy the book coma to come!!
Thank you to the author and IRIS Influencer Society for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Kara M. Zone has really done it this time. This book left me speechless, eyes wide and brain rendered to the kind of book coma only the best fantasy books can give.
Only Embers Remain is the third book in her Trium Perfectum series, continuing the story of Kaitlin, Finn, Max and Aiden as they dig deeper into memories of their past and discover connections they never knew existed.
This book is fast-moving, plot-driven and very exciting, but there are also moments within where Kara breathes more time and detail into the story as it’s needed. I love the way this pacing had me both on the edge of my seat but also entirely immersed in meaningful scenes.
The multiple POVs give such insight into each character’s development, revealing their inner turmoil and growth as they react to new people and experiences. Kara pays such careful attention to the ages and life experience of her characters. She captures their perspectives so beautifully, carefully crafting their responses to reflect their life journey.
Once again, I am left longing for her next book. I was fortunate to beta and arc read this book, and I loved seeing the changes and nuances that have made it even better. I highly recommend you pick up or continue this series right away- and enjoy the book coma to come!!
Thank you to the author and IRIS Influencer Society for the advanced copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
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