What do you think?
Rate this book
Neverbound Academy #1
Angel of Ashes
Two years ago, my fated mates rejected me.
Now they want a second chance.
All my life, I've been a symbol of hope and a portrait of perfection, the daughter molded by legacy and duty.
On my 21st birthday, I stood before the Fates, ready to meet my mate and become something more than the pedestal I’d been placed on.
In a cruel twist, the ritual ended with four sets of eyes staring back at me and one word waiting on their lips.
Reject.
In one breath, they stole my future, along with any hope of ever claiming my power or my place at Neverbound Academy.
Two years have passed, full of fake smiles and hidden shame, reduced to a bargaining chip for my father's political gain.
Now I stand in bridal lace, walking toward the altar, but it’s not my father’s match waiting for me. Instead, I’m greeted with the same four sets of eyes that haunt my soul.
It seems they’ve changed their minds. Now I must decide what’s more important - changing my fate or protecting my heart.
Angel of Ashes is book one in a rejected-mate fantasy romance series featuring why-choose, academy secrets, and the four supernatural men who will regret everything.
Now they want a second chance.
All my life, I've been a symbol of hope and a portrait of perfection, the daughter molded by legacy and duty.
On my 21st birthday, I stood before the Fates, ready to meet my mate and become something more than the pedestal I’d been placed on.
In a cruel twist, the ritual ended with four sets of eyes staring back at me and one word waiting on their lips.
Reject.
In one breath, they stole my future, along with any hope of ever claiming my power or my place at Neverbound Academy.
Two years have passed, full of fake smiles and hidden shame, reduced to a bargaining chip for my father's political gain.
Now I stand in bridal lace, walking toward the altar, but it’s not my father’s match waiting for me. Instead, I’m greeted with the same four sets of eyes that haunt my soul.
It seems they’ve changed their minds. Now I must decide what’s more important - changing my fate or protecting my heart.
Angel of Ashes is book one in a rejected-mate fantasy romance series featuring why-choose, academy secrets, and the four supernatural men who will regret everything.
532 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 26, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
May 27, 2026
If you chose this book after reading the description, hoping for some great grovel, keep searching. This isn't it. I'm starting to believe that I have a very different definition of grovel from most authors.
Aggression toward any male who shows interest in the fated mate you threw away is not grovelling, It's ownership and control. "Why should I bother trying, since I'll never be forgiven anyway?" is not grovelling. It's martyrdom. Shamelessly flirting isn't groveling. It's arrogance, a belief that you can overcome the harm you've caused through sheer charm. Feeling proctective isn't groveling. It's too little too late.
Readers want and deserve more. Show us MMCs who truly understand the harm they've caused. Show us MMCs who are adult enough to apologize, without any expectations of forgiveness. Simply because it's the right thing to do. And show us MMCs perceptive enough to see where the FMC is struggling and willing to do whatever it takes to take away some of her burdon and make her life a little bit better. Again, without any expectation of forgiveness. It's restitution, not tit-for-tat. The only MMC in this book that was even close to meeting this criteria was Sax.
We all know how this will go. There will be some big reveal that the guys' rejected Ivy out of some noble purpose. Being mated to them would put her in the crosshairs of some villain or another, so it was really for her own good or something. Fine. It's a trope for a reason. But that's not what I'm seeing from their POVs. They show no remorse over costing her two years of her education. They feel no shame about her public humiliation and even doubled-down on her humiliation by dragging her to school in a filthy wedding gown. They treated her like she was a burden simply for existing in the same space, allowed other women to hang all over them, and behaved as if their own obsessive thoughts about Ivy was something she was responsible for. The only regrets these men seemed to feel center around what they're missing out on.
The sad thing is, I was really enjoying the first eighty or so percent of this book. I was eating it up, cheering for Ivy every time she shut these men down with dignity and self-respect. Until she didn't.
The last few chapters pretty much ruined the book for me. Why, Ivy? You were doing so good! Being the analytical kind of reader that I am, when an author makes (what I believe is) a stupid decision, I always ask myself what was its purpose. Here, I suspect that . Fine. I'd argue that there were other ways that wouldn't make the FMC a doormat, but I'm not the author.
Aggression toward any male who shows interest in the fated mate you threw away is not grovelling, It's ownership and control. "Why should I bother trying, since I'll never be forgiven anyway?" is not grovelling. It's martyrdom. Shamelessly flirting isn't groveling. It's arrogance, a belief that you can overcome the harm you've caused through sheer charm. Feeling proctective isn't groveling. It's too little too late.
Readers want and deserve more. Show us MMCs who truly understand the harm they've caused. Show us MMCs who are adult enough to apologize, without any expectations of forgiveness. Simply because it's the right thing to do. And show us MMCs perceptive enough to see where the FMC is struggling and willing to do whatever it takes to take away some of her burdon and make her life a little bit better. Again, without any expectation of forgiveness. It's restitution, not tit-for-tat. The only MMC in this book that was even close to meeting this criteria was Sax.
We all know how this will go. There will be some big reveal that the guys' rejected Ivy out of some noble purpose. Being mated to them would put her in the crosshairs of some villain or another, so it was really for her own good or something. Fine. It's a trope for a reason. But that's not what I'm seeing from their POVs. They show no remorse over costing her two years of her education. They feel no shame about her public humiliation and even doubled-down on her humiliation by dragging her to school in a filthy wedding gown. They treated her like she was a burden simply for existing in the same space, allowed other women to hang all over them, and behaved as if their own obsessive thoughts about Ivy was something she was responsible for. The only regrets these men seemed to feel center around what they're missing out on.
The sad thing is, I was really enjoying the first eighty or so percent of this book. I was eating it up, cheering for Ivy every time she shut these men down with dignity and self-respect. Until she didn't.
The last few chapters pretty much ruined the book for me. Why, Ivy? You were doing so good! Being the analytical kind of reader that I am, when an author makes (what I believe is) a stupid decision, I always ask myself what was its purpose. Here, I suspect that . Fine. I'd argue that there were other ways that wouldn't make the FMC a doormat, but I'm not the author.
May 26, 2026
I was soooooo excited for this. I really was! My most anticipated book of the month by far. However, these men just suck. The few that claim to grovel are not groveling to my standards, and most of them just read as hating Ivy for zero substantiated reason throughout the entire book. This is all while Ivy herself is way nicer to them than they deserve.
Not a bad book, just not really what I wanted. Given the book's ending there may be some groundwork for proper groveling in the next book, so maybe that one will scratch the itch and have the 5 star I thought I would give this one.
Not a bad book, just not really what I wanted. Given the book's ending there may be some groundwork for proper groveling in the next book, so maybe that one will scratch the itch and have the 5 star I thought I would give this one.
May 27, 2026
This book was not what I was expecting. I was so ready to dive in, and when I did it was not what I was expecting.
There are some twists and turns in this story, some things I didn't see coming, but some things that I just could not wrap my head around.
For a person to have four fated mates and be rejected so publicly, then for those four to say she is publicly embarrassing them and their name by marrying is just absurd. They did that all on their own by not even getting to know her, and understanding that she is not her own person but the puppet her father makes her to be.
Her brother has a lot of explaining to do.
What kills me is that there is essentially a huge rejection, a huge place of hurt and something that should be extremely hard to overcome and forgive, yet she does so with a pep in her step and barely a blink. Yes I would leave to get away from my father but I would make their lives a living pain they couldn't even think to want to be a part of.
And to be in the midst of all of the girls they slept with, ugh, yuck! She was there fated, and they have the nerve to flaunt their interests in front of her and then get mad when someone shows an interest in her. I just couldn't get into this story and how easy it was for them to be angry AT HER when they are the ones that did the most damage, yet expect her to grovel and forgive. It just was not ok. The ending made a lot of dots connect and I really hope and pray book two is a lot better. And that these four do the utmost groveling and she makes them work for it. She gave in way to easy.
There are some twists and turns in this story, some things I didn't see coming, but some things that I just could not wrap my head around.
For a person to have four fated mates and be rejected so publicly, then for those four to say she is publicly embarrassing them and their name by marrying is just absurd. They did that all on their own by not even getting to know her, and understanding that she is not her own person but the puppet her father makes her to be.
Her brother has a lot of explaining to do.
What kills me is that there is essentially a huge rejection, a huge place of hurt and something that should be extremely hard to overcome and forgive, yet she does so with a pep in her step and barely a blink. Yes I would leave to get away from my father but I would make their lives a living pain they couldn't even think to want to be a part of.
And to be in the midst of all of the girls they slept with, ugh, yuck! She was there fated, and they have the nerve to flaunt their interests in front of her and then get mad when someone shows an interest in her. I just couldn't get into this story and how easy it was for them to be angry AT HER when they are the ones that did the most damage, yet expect her to grovel and forgive. It just was not ok. The ending made a lot of dots connect and I really hope and pray book two is a lot better. And that these four do the utmost groveling and she makes them work for it. She gave in way to easy.
May 28, 2026
Holy fire
Woo what a book this was all I can say is I couldn't wait 42 come out after I read the one chapter prior that was sent out.And I am totally not upset about it at all.This one was awesome, although I felt really bad with what the four guys did to her.But I really hope you come as back in the second book and just makes him grovel and regret everything
Woo what a book this was all I can say is I couldn't wait 42 come out after I read the one chapter prior that was sent out.And I am totally not upset about it at all.This one was awesome, although I felt really bad with what the four guys did to her.But I really hope you come as back in the second book and just makes him grovel and regret everything
May 23, 2026
Ivy, Archer, Sax, Baron, + Teddy
-fantasy academy
-whychoose
-rejected fated mates
-second chance
-ow/om drama
-shifters/animal companions
its been a long while since i read a rejected mates & this one did the second chance of it SOOOOO good! i was pleasantly surprised with all the om/ow plot drama too,, but i loveee that shit!!
-fantasy academy
-whychoose
-rejected fated mates
-second chance
-ow/om drama
-shifters/animal companions
its been a long while since i read a rejected mates & this one did the second chance of it SOOOOO good! i was pleasantly surprised with all the om/ow plot drama too,, but i loveee that shit!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
🖤 Rejected Mates
🏫 Academy Romance
✨ Why Choose Romance
🔥 Second Chance Romance
💔 Emotional Angst
👀 Fated Mates
🩶 Touch Her and Die Vibes
🗝️ Academy Secrets
⚡ Supernatural Politics
🥀 Broken Heroine
🛐 Groveling Heroes
💞 Slow Burn Romance
👑 Powerful FMC
🧨 High Emotional Tension
🌑 Paranormal Romance
🔮 Fate and Destiny Themes
❤️🔥 Possessive Heroes
🤍 Found Family Elements
📚 Fantasy Romance Series
🖤 He Falls First Energy
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Angel of Ashes by KC Kean completely pulled me into its dark and emotional world from the very first chapter. This rejected mate fantasy romance had the perfect mix of heartbreak, tension, supernatural politics, and addictive academy drama. Ivy’s story was impossible not to feel deeply invested in because her pain after being rejected by her fated mates shaped every interaction and every decision she made throughout the book.
I absolutely loved Ivy as a heroine. Beneath all the expectations and pressure placed on her by her family was a woman trying to reclaim her power and sense of self after having her entire future ripped away. Watching her face Baron, Sax, Archer, and Teddy again after two years of humiliation and heartbreak created so much emotional tension. The chemistry between all five characters was intense, messy, and filled with unresolved feelings that made every scene crackle with anticipation.
Each of the men brought something different to the story, which made the why choose dynamic feel layered and engaging rather than repetitive. I especially loved the guilt and regret threaded through their interactions with Ivy because it added emotional weight to the romance instead of relying purely on attraction. The push and pull between protecting her heart and giving them another chance kept me completely hooked.
The Neverbound Academy setting added another layer of intrigue with its supernatural secrets, political manipulation, hidden agendas, and dangerous undertones. There was always something happening beneath the surface, and I loved slowly uncovering more about the world and Ivy’s place within it. The pacing kept me turning pages constantly, especially once the twists and revelations started hitting harder toward the end.
This book delivered emotional angst, slow burn tension, betrayal, longing, and just enough mystery to leave me desperate for the next installment. If you love rejected mate romances with academy settings, strong emotional conflict, supernatural politics, and multiple love interests who are determined to earn forgiveness, Angel of Ashes is definitely worth picking up.
🏫 Academy Romance
✨ Why Choose Romance
🔥 Second Chance Romance
💔 Emotional Angst
👀 Fated Mates
🩶 Touch Her and Die Vibes
🗝️ Academy Secrets
⚡ Supernatural Politics
🥀 Broken Heroine
🛐 Groveling Heroes
💞 Slow Burn Romance
👑 Powerful FMC
🧨 High Emotional Tension
🌑 Paranormal Romance
🔮 Fate and Destiny Themes
❤️🔥 Possessive Heroes
🤍 Found Family Elements
📚 Fantasy Romance Series
🖤 He Falls First Energy
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Angel of Ashes by KC Kean completely pulled me into its dark and emotional world from the very first chapter. This rejected mate fantasy romance had the perfect mix of heartbreak, tension, supernatural politics, and addictive academy drama. Ivy’s story was impossible not to feel deeply invested in because her pain after being rejected by her fated mates shaped every interaction and every decision she made throughout the book.
I absolutely loved Ivy as a heroine. Beneath all the expectations and pressure placed on her by her family was a woman trying to reclaim her power and sense of self after having her entire future ripped away. Watching her face Baron, Sax, Archer, and Teddy again after two years of humiliation and heartbreak created so much emotional tension. The chemistry between all five characters was intense, messy, and filled with unresolved feelings that made every scene crackle with anticipation.
Each of the men brought something different to the story, which made the why choose dynamic feel layered and engaging rather than repetitive. I especially loved the guilt and regret threaded through their interactions with Ivy because it added emotional weight to the romance instead of relying purely on attraction. The push and pull between protecting her heart and giving them another chance kept me completely hooked.
The Neverbound Academy setting added another layer of intrigue with its supernatural secrets, political manipulation, hidden agendas, and dangerous undertones. There was always something happening beneath the surface, and I loved slowly uncovering more about the world and Ivy’s place within it. The pacing kept me turning pages constantly, especially once the twists and revelations started hitting harder toward the end.
This book delivered emotional angst, slow burn tension, betrayal, longing, and just enough mystery to leave me desperate for the next installment. If you love rejected mate romances with academy settings, strong emotional conflict, supernatural politics, and multiple love interests who are determined to earn forgiveness, Angel of Ashes is definitely worth picking up.
May 27, 2026
Okay...man, I have to say, I was looking forward to this so much, and I'm so sad that I just didn't love it.
Let's get the basics out of the way before I talk about anything:
Genre: Fantasy RH
Dynamic: mfmmm
Spice: 2/5
Series: Book 1 (incomplete series)
Ok, let me say that I really love the premise of this book. I think this had the potential to be a great read for me, but there are just some things that I cannot get behind, and that is a Mary Sue FMC and/or really bad editing. Let me explain.
For me, and I feel this needs repeating: FOR ME, I have a hard time liking a book when the MMCs are dicks to the FMC and she just rolls over and takes it and forgives them because she is too weak to say no to good looks and a big dick. Like, puke. I'm not saying that Ivy (the fmc) was the weakest FMC I've ever had the displeasure of reading about, but man, I struggled through this one. The guys are complete assholes...I mean, hello, they rejected her--and spoiler , and they really don't seem to care about her much, but she just can't resist them. **fucking eyeroll** I'm not even kidding when I say that it makes me sick to my stomach when that happens. She says she is going to make them regret it and there is going to be groveling...but there is none. She literally just gives in to them--even while they are flaunting other girls in her face, she puts up with it. How am I supposed to enjoy a book when I have zero respect for any of the characters? Hint: I can't.
As for the editing, like, I get indie publishing, I do. However, when the gender of one of the dragons changes from a girl to a boy several different times in the span of a paragraph, we have a problem.
For example, this is NOT taken from the book, but this is kinda how it went:
Her scales glinted in the sunlight as he flew through the sky. I knew she was looking for his next meal, but all the animals hid from him as she hunted.
Like, that will pull you right out of the story.
I know missed words are going to happen and grammar is not going to be 100% correct, however, I do have a small level of expectation when it comes to published works, and basic continuity is one of them.
I know that I am always in the minority when it comes to my opinions in books--especially RH reads, so definitely read this and enjoy it while I sit here and stew in my feminist indignation.
Let's get the basics out of the way before I talk about anything:
Genre: Fantasy RH
Dynamic: mfmmm
Spice: 2/5
Series: Book 1 (incomplete series)
Ok, let me say that I really love the premise of this book. I think this had the potential to be a great read for me, but there are just some things that I cannot get behind, and that is a Mary Sue FMC and/or really bad editing. Let me explain.
For me, and I feel this needs repeating: FOR ME, I have a hard time liking a book when the MMCs are dicks to the FMC and she just rolls over and takes it and forgives them because she is too weak to say no to good looks and a big dick. Like, puke. I'm not saying that Ivy (the fmc) was the weakest FMC I've ever had the displeasure of reading about, but man, I struggled through this one. The guys are complete assholes...I mean, hello, they rejected her--and spoiler , and they really don't seem to care about her much, but she just can't resist them. **fucking eyeroll** I'm not even kidding when I say that it makes me sick to my stomach when that happens. She says she is going to make them regret it and there is going to be groveling...but there is none. She literally just gives in to them--even while they are flaunting other girls in her face, she puts up with it. How am I supposed to enjoy a book when I have zero respect for any of the characters? Hint: I can't.
As for the editing, like, I get indie publishing, I do. However, when the gender of one of the dragons changes from a girl to a boy several different times in the span of a paragraph, we have a problem.
For example, this is NOT taken from the book, but this is kinda how it went:
Her scales glinted in the sunlight as he flew through the sky. I knew she was looking for his next meal, but all the animals hid from him as she hunted.
Like, that will pull you right out of the story.
I know missed words are going to happen and grammar is not going to be 100% correct, however, I do have a small level of expectation when it comes to published works, and basic continuity is one of them.
I know that I am always in the minority when it comes to my opinions in books--especially RH reads, so definitely read this and enjoy it while I sit here and stew in my feminist indignation.
June 2, 2026
I wanted to start this review by saying I have been a very big fan of KC Kean from her first book. I was so excited for this new book, but after reading it, I was a little disappointed. I thought this book was okay, just not what I had hoped it would be.
Ivy was openly rejected and humiliated by her four fated mates at a claiming ceremony. She spent the next two years under the thumb of an uncaring and borderline abusive father until he was going to marry her off. Her brother, Hugo, was supposedly her best friend and only support system her whole life and even held her as she was so cruelly left behind by her mates.
Her mates decide to show up and stop her wedding and kidnap her to take her back the the academy she should have been at the past two years with them. They all continue to humiliate her and treat her like she is the dirt beneath their feet. There is no explanation or reasoning behind their rejection so we get no answers in the first book. The only thing we learn is that Ivy is basically everyone's doormat and there is not a single apology or smidge of groveling to make up for their shameful and cruel behavior toward her, and this includes her brother. I felt Hugo's was the biggest betrayal of all, yet she forgives him so easily. Even her professors make it her fault that she is 2 years behind on studies despite the fact that the rejection meant she was not allowed to even attend the academy. That did not make sense to me.
Ivy is kind and loving and just wants that returned to her but continues to get nothing. I am all for an enemies to lovers trope but this goes beyond even that to things I do not feel are even forgivable for four men who are supposed to be her mates. I do not even know how any of them could redeem themselves enough to make any of what they have done okay.
I will go on to the next book in the series mostly because i am very interested to see if these four men can find some way to grovel and worship at her feet until she decides if she should forgive them or not. I am going to hold out hope that things will improve and I won't despise the main male characters as much as I do now.
Thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review.
Ivy was openly rejected and humiliated by her four fated mates at a claiming ceremony. She spent the next two years under the thumb of an uncaring and borderline abusive father until he was going to marry her off. Her brother, Hugo, was supposedly her best friend and only support system her whole life and even held her as she was so cruelly left behind by her mates.
Her mates decide to show up and stop her wedding and kidnap her to take her back the the academy she should have been at the past two years with them. They all continue to humiliate her and treat her like she is the dirt beneath their feet. There is no explanation or reasoning behind their rejection so we get no answers in the first book. The only thing we learn is that Ivy is basically everyone's doormat and there is not a single apology or smidge of groveling to make up for their shameful and cruel behavior toward her, and this includes her brother. I felt Hugo's was the biggest betrayal of all, yet she forgives him so easily. Even her professors make it her fault that she is 2 years behind on studies despite the fact that the rejection meant she was not allowed to even attend the academy. That did not make sense to me.
Ivy is kind and loving and just wants that returned to her but continues to get nothing. I am all for an enemies to lovers trope but this goes beyond even that to things I do not feel are even forgivable for four men who are supposed to be her mates. I do not even know how any of them could redeem themselves enough to make any of what they have done okay.
I will go on to the next book in the series mostly because i am very interested to see if these four men can find some way to grovel and worship at her feet until she decides if she should forgive them or not. I am going to hold out hope that things will improve and I won't despise the main male characters as much as I do now.
Thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review.
May 28, 2026
3.5 rounded up
Paranormal, reverse harem, Academy, magical powers, Shifters, fated bonds, rejected bond. We meet Ivy, at 21, with her brother Hugo, 26 on the cusp of the ceremony to reveal her fated mate. Ivy is the daughter of the area's Mayor and has been forced to visible perfection despite her inner unhappiness. The town calls her the Angel. At her ceremony she gets four mates, who promptly and viciously reject her which means she can't escape her cold home life, or attend the Academy where she would be granted her powers. Two years later her cruel father sets up an arranged marriage, and her mates crash the wedding, kill her unknown suit or and steal her away to the academy. Despite being happy at her escape she is justifiably furious at her fated, who are still cruel and obnoxious. As time goes on it becomes irritatingly clear that neither the reader nor Ivy know what is going on in the mates' lives, the society, or politics. Unfortunately the reader is left in the dark which seems to be a new trope in the genre that I do not like. We still don't know why these idiots rejected Ivy, or why her brother has encouraged them to claim her. Clearly her education has been woefully neglected, and why oh why did she never bother to ask why they rejected her??? This book hints that Baron rejected her due to a deal with Odesa that they both reject the fated and be together. Then she reneged and went to her mate after all. Did he get the others to agree? Don't know. Also don't know about the world structure? Four segregated groups with their own countries surround the fifth which is integrated and houses the Academy. Every group fighting over limited amounts of magic? So I have way more questions than answers at the end of book one. So, I can't recommend this until the series is further along.
Paranormal, reverse harem, Academy, magical powers, Shifters, fated bonds, rejected bond. We meet Ivy, at 21, with her brother Hugo, 26 on the cusp of the ceremony to reveal her fated mate. Ivy is the daughter of the area's Mayor and has been forced to visible perfection despite her inner unhappiness. The town calls her the Angel. At her ceremony she gets four mates, who promptly and viciously reject her which means she can't escape her cold home life, or attend the Academy where she would be granted her powers. Two years later her cruel father sets up an arranged marriage, and her mates crash the wedding, kill her unknown suit or and steal her away to the academy. Despite being happy at her escape she is justifiably furious at her fated, who are still cruel and obnoxious. As time goes on it becomes irritatingly clear that neither the reader nor Ivy know what is going on in the mates' lives, the society, or politics. Unfortunately the reader is left in the dark which seems to be a new trope in the genre that I do not like. We still don't know why these idiots rejected Ivy, or why her brother has encouraged them to claim her. Clearly her education has been woefully neglected, and why oh why did she never bother to ask why they rejected her??? This book hints that Baron rejected her due to a deal with Odesa that they both reject the fated and be together. Then she reneged and went to her mate after all. Did he get the others to agree? Don't know. Also don't know about the world structure? Four segregated groups with their own countries surround the fifth which is integrated and houses the Academy. Every group fighting over limited amounts of magic? So I have way more questions than answers at the end of book one. So, I can't recommend this until the series is further along.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2026
If KC Kean writes it, I’m reading it. Every book I have read by her has been phenomenal and this one is no different.
Ivy - the Angel of Heaven’s Ridge - was rejected by her 4 mates - Archer, Sax, Baron and Teddy. Her hopes and dreams were crushed … until she gets the chance to finally leave home several years later and attend Neverbound Academy.
Where she is reunited with her mates … and no, it’s not a happy reunion. My girl has been hurt and she gives zero ground for these guys and any excuse they may or may not have. She wants to guard her heart against further damage from these guys … which is understandable. - There wasn’t a whole lot of groveling from the guys, I definitely feel like Ivy should have made them eat dirt. I am holding out hope for the next book! - There are definitely a lot of secrets being kept from Ivy. She is totally new in this world and she is relying on guys … who rejected her. Who are keeping her in the dark about things …. Her brother, who she is closest to … is also keeping secrets.
The world that KC has built is so unique. THE SPRITES! The kingdoms! There are four houses - Earth, Air, Fire and Water. And everyone has their own supernatural talent that they must unlock. Between the academy drama and the supernatural politics within the kingdoms … I was locked in. Seriously, once I started I couldn’t put this book down. I was hooked from beginning to end. Book 2 cannot come fast enough.
** The next time someone tries to belittle me, I’m going to show them the anger that burns inside of me. Or try to at least. No. I will. No more standing around and accepting cruel words. No more being perfect and fake to match an image I never created. No more breaking myself to please others.
Ivy - the Angel of Heaven’s Ridge - was rejected by her 4 mates - Archer, Sax, Baron and Teddy. Her hopes and dreams were crushed … until she gets the chance to finally leave home several years later and attend Neverbound Academy.
Where she is reunited with her mates … and no, it’s not a happy reunion. My girl has been hurt and she gives zero ground for these guys and any excuse they may or may not have. She wants to guard her heart against further damage from these guys … which is understandable. - There wasn’t a whole lot of groveling from the guys, I definitely feel like Ivy should have made them eat dirt. I am holding out hope for the next book! - There are definitely a lot of secrets being kept from Ivy. She is totally new in this world and she is relying on guys … who rejected her. Who are keeping her in the dark about things …. Her brother, who she is closest to … is also keeping secrets.
The world that KC has built is so unique. THE SPRITES! The kingdoms! There are four houses - Earth, Air, Fire and Water. And everyone has their own supernatural talent that they must unlock. Between the academy drama and the supernatural politics within the kingdoms … I was locked in. Seriously, once I started I couldn’t put this book down. I was hooked from beginning to end. Book 2 cannot come fast enough.
** The next time someone tries to belittle me, I’m going to show them the anger that burns inside of me. Or try to at least. No. I will. No more standing around and accepting cruel words. No more being perfect and fake to match an image I never created. No more breaking myself to please others.
June 8, 2026
Car crash
First.. i want to say that this is not my fisrt book by this author but.....
I honestly don't know how to rate this book.
On one hand, I finished it.
On the other, I spent most of it staring at the pages the same way people stare at a car crash. Horrified, fascinated, and completely unable to look away.
The entire book felt like an Olympic-level attempt to cram as many tropes as possible into a single story while somehow keeping everything remarkably shallow. Fated mates, secret societies, hidden powers, chosen ones, dead-not-dead characters, prophecies, magical academies... it's all here. Unfortunately, very little of it felt earned or developed.
The characters felt flat, their emotions rarely matched what was actually happening on the page, and the FMC often behaved more like an immature teenager than a 23-year-old woman. Relationships developed because the plot demanded they develop, not because the chemistry or character growth supported them.
The worldbuilding was full of inconsistencies and plot conveniences. Rules seemed to change whenever the story needed them to. There were multiple moments where I stopped and wondered if I had accidentally skipped a chapter.
To make matters worse, I noticed numerous editing issues, including pronoun changes within scenes and other errors that pulled me out of the story.
By around 30% I stopped reading it as a novel and started reading it as a social experiment. Every time I thought it couldn't possibly throw another trope, twist, reveal, or dramatic secret at me, it somehow managed to do exactly that.
The strangest part?
I read 100–150 books a year, and this was one of the very few that actually motivated me to leave a review.
I still don't know whether that's a compliment or a warning.
First.. i want to say that this is not my fisrt book by this author but.....
I honestly don't know how to rate this book.
On one hand, I finished it.
On the other, I spent most of it staring at the pages the same way people stare at a car crash. Horrified, fascinated, and completely unable to look away.
The entire book felt like an Olympic-level attempt to cram as many tropes as possible into a single story while somehow keeping everything remarkably shallow. Fated mates, secret societies, hidden powers, chosen ones, dead-not-dead characters, prophecies, magical academies... it's all here. Unfortunately, very little of it felt earned or developed.
The characters felt flat, their emotions rarely matched what was actually happening on the page, and the FMC often behaved more like an immature teenager than a 23-year-old woman. Relationships developed because the plot demanded they develop, not because the chemistry or character growth supported them.
The worldbuilding was full of inconsistencies and plot conveniences. Rules seemed to change whenever the story needed them to. There were multiple moments where I stopped and wondered if I had accidentally skipped a chapter.
To make matters worse, I noticed numerous editing issues, including pronoun changes within scenes and other errors that pulled me out of the story.
By around 30% I stopped reading it as a novel and started reading it as a social experiment. Every time I thought it couldn't possibly throw another trope, twist, reveal, or dramatic secret at me, it somehow managed to do exactly that.
The strangest part?
I read 100–150 books a year, and this was one of the very few that actually motivated me to leave a review.
I still don't know whether that's a compliment or a warning.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It never fails that when I start reading a K.C. Kean book I get completely sucked in. When I started reading Angel of Ashes I wasn’t even in the mood to read but decided to start with the first chapter and then I couldn’t put the book down.
This book completely consumed me. The story, the characters, the world…all of it grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go until the end. Actually it still hasn’t let go because this book is living rent free in my head, even after finishing a few days ago.
I absolutely love Ivy and her character so much. Seeing her grow and embrace who she really is and who she could be was everything. I loved seeing her stand up to the guys and not take any of their crap. Now the guys, I kinda love to hate them right now. They absolutely deserve the way that Ivy feels about and treats them. But I do believe that there are legitimate reasons they rejected Ivy in the beginning and I can’t wait to find out what they are. They had definitely grown on me by the end of the book and I can’t wait until I will inevitably fall for all of them. (Because let’s face it, there is no doubt in my mind that will happen.)
My head is spinning with so many different theories that I can’t wait to find out if they’re right. And that ending? At least K.C. didn’t end it where she could have because that would have been cruel. I am officially obsessed with this world and these characters and I can’t wait until I can get my hands on the next book.
This book completely consumed me. The story, the characters, the world…all of it grabbed my attention and wouldn’t let go until the end. Actually it still hasn’t let go because this book is living rent free in my head, even after finishing a few days ago.
I absolutely love Ivy and her character so much. Seeing her grow and embrace who she really is and who she could be was everything. I loved seeing her stand up to the guys and not take any of their crap. Now the guys, I kinda love to hate them right now. They absolutely deserve the way that Ivy feels about and treats them. But I do believe that there are legitimate reasons they rejected Ivy in the beginning and I can’t wait to find out what they are. They had definitely grown on me by the end of the book and I can’t wait until I will inevitably fall for all of them. (Because let’s face it, there is no doubt in my mind that will happen.)
My head is spinning with so many different theories that I can’t wait to find out if they’re right. And that ending? At least K.C. didn’t end it where she could have because that would have been cruel. I am officially obsessed with this world and these characters and I can’t wait until I can get my hands on the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
The start of an amazing new series The Neverbound Academy. Ivy, also known as The Angel of Heaven's Ridge, is the daughter of a politician and has spent her whole life playing the part dictated by her parents. She lives a posh life, but a very sheltered one, essentially in a gilded cage of her parents making. Needless to say she is excited to find her fated mate and start a new life at Neverbound Academy, where her brother Hugo just graduated from. She earns for freedom, real love and a chance to just be her. However when she puts her hands on the fate stone she learns that the Fates have gifted her not one but 4 mates, she's finally going to be free then she hears the one thing she wasn't expecting "Reject!". The story picks up two years later when her mates crash a wedding arranged by her father and decide they need her and sweep her off to Neverbound Academy. What
ensues from there is a story I was never expecting. Lies, betrayal, tension, supernatural politics and rules, humor, and so much more. I was invested by the first chapter and have to know how Ivy's story ends. The chemistry with the guys is off the charts and their personalities are diverse and entertaining. Each one seem to be battling their own circumstances and have unique backstories that will make her relatable to them when all cards are on the table. I can't wait to see where this goes, I know it's going to be great.
ensues from there is a story I was never expecting. Lies, betrayal, tension, supernatural politics and rules, humor, and so much more. I was invested by the first chapter and have to know how Ivy's story ends. The chemistry with the guys is off the charts and their personalities are diverse and entertaining. Each one seem to be battling their own circumstances and have unique backstories that will make her relatable to them when all cards are on the table. I can't wait to see where this goes, I know it's going to be great.
Review of advance copy
I really wanted to love this story, and I did like it... BUT...
I was really into this story, I don't think I put it down at all and just read right through. Despite this, I admit I didn't find it flowed well in some aspects. For example, the way the FMC, Ivy, started to feel about the guys. They were jerks from the very beginning, and certainly didn't get much better at the academy. Yet suddenly, not long after arriving there, Ivy started feeling attracted to them, wished they'd touch her longer at times, and had thoughts of doing intimate stuff with them. It was a bit annoying. They certainly didn't deserve to know the time of day from her, yet despite her claiming to hate them, she also had these thoughts. Externally, she kept it up, for the most part, at least. I'm annoyed at the first 'smex' scene, too. I feel she gave in way too easily. I'm disappointed and a bit mad, actually.
The ending was good, somewhat. A bit of a twist, even if it came out of nowhere.
Overall, I wish there was more regret and remorse from the guys, more explanations (I'm assuming there will be in the next book... there had better be! So far we only got one of the guys' reasons, and it made sense), and a bit more groveling. I'm really hoping for more of it in the upcoming books.
Great story idea, love Ivy's big brother for the most part, she has great friends who I like reading about, but I'm left wishing for more from the guys. I wish the 'smex' scene hadn't happened so soon.
I was really into this story, I don't think I put it down at all and just read right through. Despite this, I admit I didn't find it flowed well in some aspects. For example, the way the FMC, Ivy, started to feel about the guys. They were jerks from the very beginning, and certainly didn't get much better at the academy. Yet suddenly, not long after arriving there, Ivy started feeling attracted to them, wished they'd touch her longer at times, and had thoughts of doing intimate stuff with them. It was a bit annoying. They certainly didn't deserve to know the time of day from her, yet despite her claiming to hate them, she also had these thoughts. Externally, she kept it up, for the most part, at least. I'm annoyed at the first 'smex' scene, too. I feel she gave in way too easily. I'm disappointed and a bit mad, actually.
The ending was good, somewhat. A bit of a twist, even if it came out of nowhere.
Overall, I wish there was more regret and remorse from the guys, more explanations (I'm assuming there will be in the next book... there had better be! So far we only got one of the guys' reasons, and it made sense), and a bit more groveling. I'm really hoping for more of it in the upcoming books.
Great story idea, love Ivy's big brother for the most part, she has great friends who I like reading about, but I'm left wishing for more from the guys. I wish the 'smex' scene hadn't happened so soon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Reverse Harem
*Fantasy
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Academy Setting
*Element based magic
*Mixed Supernaturals
*Secret Group
*Rejected Mates
*Established Harem (4)
*Slow Burn
*Book 1 / 4
Fiery and fierce FMC - idiot men :’D
Dubbed the Angel, Ivy has essentially been manipulated into a personna by her parent - forced to continually wear a ask, yet she wants far more from life. But all that hope changes in the blink of an eye when her escape to Neverbound Academy is thwarted by the rejection of her fated mates :( However two yers later they’re back and a deal allows her to attend the one place she always dreamt off. I love how Ivy absolutely sticks to her guns though and wants sweet FA to do with them :D she’s happy to use them as her ticket out of her past life and that’s it - good for her! What makes it more fustrating is that some of her guys have clearly misjudged her and aren’t taken the time to see beneath her mask - although others are trying, it’s wet to see but there’s a lot grovelling to do….
There’s so many intriguing elements to this story as it appears there may be something else going on as secret meetings held by her mates, her brother and faculty members suggest there’s going on at the academy. And I’m not wholly convinced that her mates only came back because she was to marry someone else, or why did they even reject her in the first place!
Feel that cliffhanger though is going to bring us some answers in the next book and certainly some changes in attitude :O
*Fantasy
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Academy Setting
*Element based magic
*Mixed Supernaturals
*Secret Group
*Rejected Mates
*Established Harem (4)
*Slow Burn
*Book 1 / 4
Fiery and fierce FMC - idiot men :’D
Dubbed the Angel, Ivy has essentially been manipulated into a personna by her parent - forced to continually wear a ask, yet she wants far more from life. But all that hope changes in the blink of an eye when her escape to Neverbound Academy is thwarted by the rejection of her fated mates :( However two yers later they’re back and a deal allows her to attend the one place she always dreamt off. I love how Ivy absolutely sticks to her guns though and wants sweet FA to do with them :D she’s happy to use them as her ticket out of her past life and that’s it - good for her! What makes it more fustrating is that some of her guys have clearly misjudged her and aren’t taken the time to see beneath her mask - although others are trying, it’s wet to see but there’s a lot grovelling to do….
There’s so many intriguing elements to this story as it appears there may be something else going on as secret meetings held by her mates, her brother and faculty members suggest there’s going on at the academy. And I’m not wholly convinced that her mates only came back because she was to marry someone else, or why did they even reject her in the first place!
Feel that cliffhanger though is going to bring us some answers in the next book and certainly some changes in attitude :O
May 28, 2026
Oh my gosh!
This is why I love KC Kean!
She has this way of pulling you in with fierce female characters & acehole like men that despite their personalities, you fall for them anyways.
And this book is just the same.
Ivy has had a sheltered & controlled life being the daughter of political figure. But she had hoped that when time came to find out if she had a mate, she would be able to leave her home & go to Neverbound Academy to get away.
But that night didn’t turn out like she had hoped when she finds out she has four mates but then they reject her.
Now, two years later, she is suffering in silence when her father demands to marry a man he chose for her. But then she shows up & her mates are there to take her away.
She ends up at Neverbound Academy but with too many questions and no answers. And the way her “rejected” mates are acting around her, only confuses her more.
More secrets are some what revealed & more questions are left unanswered.
That is until she is taken & we find out exactly what her power will be & I had a feeling this was what it was going to be. And I am so freaking excited for it. I know it will mean more problems & danger for her but I think this will be on of the big breaking points for her mates to really truly step up.
I am so beyond excited to have read the first book in this series. And I am beyond excited to see what happens next for Ivy.
Absolutely amazing job!
This is why I love KC Kean!
She has this way of pulling you in with fierce female characters & acehole like men that despite their personalities, you fall for them anyways.
And this book is just the same.
Ivy has had a sheltered & controlled life being the daughter of political figure. But she had hoped that when time came to find out if she had a mate, she would be able to leave her home & go to Neverbound Academy to get away.
But that night didn’t turn out like she had hoped when she finds out she has four mates but then they reject her.
Now, two years later, she is suffering in silence when her father demands to marry a man he chose for her. But then she shows up & her mates are there to take her away.
She ends up at Neverbound Academy but with too many questions and no answers. And the way her “rejected” mates are acting around her, only confuses her more.
More secrets are some what revealed & more questions are left unanswered.
That is until she is taken & we find out exactly what her power will be & I had a feeling this was what it was going to be. And I am so freaking excited for it. I know it will mean more problems & danger for her but I think this will be on of the big breaking points for her mates to really truly step up.
I am so beyond excited to have read the first book in this series. And I am beyond excited to see what happens next for Ivy.
Absolutely amazing job!
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Two years ago, my fated mates rejected me. Now they want a second chance." 💔
I was so excited to get an eARC of KC Kean's new book "Angel of Ashes." What a great start to her new Neverbound Academy series. It's been awhile since I’ve read a rejected mates book, and it felt so good to dive back into this trope and completely lose myself in a new world. 🌌
Ivy is exactly the kind of strong, resilient heroine I love to root for. Two years after she was brutally rejected and trapped under her father's control, her "hated mates" have now seemingly changed their minds. The emotional tension and unresolved chemistry between them literally crackled off the page. 🔥 What I loved most, though, was watching her finally start to break away from her family's suffocating expectations as she begins to figure out her own identity outside of "The Angel of Heaven's Ridge" persona. Lines like "Damn, I need to curse more; it makes me feel better" and "My mother isn't here. I can say and do whatever I please to defend myself" perfectly showcase her quiet strength and growing backbone as she takes back her power. 👑
The men have a lot of work to do to earn back her forgiveness and her heart. ❤️🩹 There are so many hints dropped about why they actually rejected her, and I'm incredibly excited to see those reveals unfold. The academy world itself is so intriguing, packed with supernatural politics and hidden agendas that kept me guessing the entire time. 🏛️ And that cliffhanger ending?! I didn't see that coming at all - my head is still spinning. 🤯 5 stars! 👑 🥀 👥 🫀
I was so excited to get an eARC of KC Kean's new book "Angel of Ashes." What a great start to her new Neverbound Academy series. It's been awhile since I’ve read a rejected mates book, and it felt so good to dive back into this trope and completely lose myself in a new world. 🌌
Ivy is exactly the kind of strong, resilient heroine I love to root for. Two years after she was brutally rejected and trapped under her father's control, her "hated mates" have now seemingly changed their minds. The emotional tension and unresolved chemistry between them literally crackled off the page. 🔥 What I loved most, though, was watching her finally start to break away from her family's suffocating expectations as she begins to figure out her own identity outside of "The Angel of Heaven's Ridge" persona. Lines like "Damn, I need to curse more; it makes me feel better" and "My mother isn't here. I can say and do whatever I please to defend myself" perfectly showcase her quiet strength and growing backbone as she takes back her power. 👑
The men have a lot of work to do to earn back her forgiveness and her heart. ❤️🩹 There are so many hints dropped about why they actually rejected her, and I'm incredibly excited to see those reveals unfold. The academy world itself is so intriguing, packed with supernatural politics and hidden agendas that kept me guessing the entire time. 🏛️ And that cliffhanger ending?! I didn't see that coming at all - my head is still spinning. 🤯 5 stars! 👑 🥀 👥 🫀
May 27, 2026
Never have I wanted to hug a FMC more. I love KC Kean's academy romances, they are always so entertaining and are such emotional roller coasters, but this one made me emotional right away. Ivy is such a sweet but spicy FMC, it is so painful watching her wade through endless questions and secrets after being thrust into a new place. I am obviously so mad at her Fated, but I know there is something bigger happening in the background and I can't wait for answers.
I love the set up and magic of this world, it's elemental but there are shifters and dragons in the mix too which is always a good time. I should have known Ivy's powers were going to be as awesome as they are!! (Cliffhanger discovery). Our girl is going to kick butt whenever we figure out who exactly it is that needs to be put in their place.
I have no favourite MMC yet, it's like KC Kean writes slow burns when it comes to discovering the MMCs personalities and stories. Which means I have no clue who she can really lean on, but these boys are for sure softening up to her and hopefully its not dragged out too long into book 2.
If you love rejected mates, hidden powers and magic galore all bundled up in a why choose bouquet. Angel of Ashes is for you! I read in one day, hop on it!
I love the set up and magic of this world, it's elemental but there are shifters and dragons in the mix too which is always a good time. I should have known Ivy's powers were going to be as awesome as they are!! (Cliffhanger discovery). Our girl is going to kick butt whenever we figure out who exactly it is that needs to be put in their place.
I have no favourite MMC yet, it's like KC Kean writes slow burns when it comes to discovering the MMCs personalities and stories. Which means I have no clue who she can really lean on, but these boys are for sure softening up to her and hopefully its not dragged out too long into book 2.
If you love rejected mates, hidden powers and magic galore all bundled up in a why choose bouquet. Angel of Ashes is for you! I read in one day, hop on it!
May 29, 2026
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
The way I devoured this book!!!!! KC Kean never fails to disappoint and I have to say she absolutely killed this. This is book one on the series and I am already looking forward to the rest.
I love the world, I am so intrigued and I have so many questions! I love Ivy, I know that her character is going to blossom in the coming books and it’s going to be so good to read.
The men in this series definitely have my attention. I have so many questions and of course they’re unanswered until book two 😭. I love the broodiness but I can also see some golden retrievers in there somewhere, maybe a little psycho too. Did I like them at the beginning? No I very much hated them but I’m refraining from judging until i understand everyone’s actions.
Ivy’s brother Hugo, I love him but dude seriously needs to work on his communication skills 😂. I will say again I am intrigued to understand what is happening and why everyone is involved.
My girl Ivy needs new parents because they just aren’t it. I love Meadow I think she’s a great character and perfect for Ivy. I am also loving the sprites because omg they are adorable!!!! Again I have my questions about it haha.
All in all I loved the book but I have so many questions I need book 2 asap 😭.
Spice: 🌶️
The way I devoured this book!!!!! KC Kean never fails to disappoint and I have to say she absolutely killed this. This is book one on the series and I am already looking forward to the rest.
I love the world, I am so intrigued and I have so many questions! I love Ivy, I know that her character is going to blossom in the coming books and it’s going to be so good to read.
The men in this series definitely have my attention. I have so many questions and of course they’re unanswered until book two 😭. I love the broodiness but I can also see some golden retrievers in there somewhere, maybe a little psycho too. Did I like them at the beginning? No I very much hated them but I’m refraining from judging until i understand everyone’s actions.
Ivy’s brother Hugo, I love him but dude seriously needs to work on his communication skills 😂. I will say again I am intrigued to understand what is happening and why everyone is involved.
My girl Ivy needs new parents because they just aren’t it. I love Meadow I think she’s a great character and perfect for Ivy. I am also loving the sprites because omg they are adorable!!!! Again I have my questions about it haha.
All in all I loved the book but I have so many questions I need book 2 asap 😭.
June 6, 2026
Oh that cliffhanger! I need more!
Ivy is strong but has been denied being able to live her own life and be her own person. She thought everything was going to change the night the fates declared her fated mate, or mates in Ivy’s case but when they rejected her, Ivy’s heart shattered.
Two years later, they return to reclaim what is theirs. Sax, Archer, Teddy and Baron.
Each have their own story, their own power and their own hate towards Ivy. There is a reason they need ivy, a reason that all of them are unsure of what.
Ivy is determined to find her place in this world, to show her mates that she doesn’t need them and that they didn’t destroy her.
I’m so excited to see what comes next and to watch the chemistry build between ivy and her mates! in Ivy’s case but when they rejected her, Ivy’s heart shattered.
Two years later, they return to reclaim what is theirs. Sax, Archer, Teddy and Baron.
Each have their own story, their own power and their own hate towards Ivy. There is a reason they need ivy, a reason that all of them are unsure of what.
Ivy is determined to find her place in this world, to show her mates that she doesn’t need them and that they didn’t destroy her.
I’m so excited to see what comes next and to watch the chemistry build between ivy and her mates!
Ivy is strong but has been denied being able to live her own life and be her own person. She thought everything was going to change the night the fates declared her fated mate, or mates in Ivy’s case but when they rejected her, Ivy’s heart shattered.
Two years later, they return to reclaim what is theirs. Sax, Archer, Teddy and Baron.
Each have their own story, their own power and their own hate towards Ivy. There is a reason they need ivy, a reason that all of them are unsure of what.
Ivy is determined to find her place in this world, to show her mates that she doesn’t need them and that they didn’t destroy her.
I’m so excited to see what comes next and to watch the chemistry build between ivy and her mates! in Ivy’s case but when they rejected her, Ivy’s heart shattered.
Two years later, they return to reclaim what is theirs. Sax, Archer, Teddy and Baron.
Each have their own story, their own power and their own hate towards Ivy. There is a reason they need ivy, a reason that all of them are unsure of what.
Ivy is determined to find her place in this world, to show her mates that she doesn’t need them and that they didn’t destroy her.
I’m so excited to see what comes next and to watch the chemistry build between ivy and her mates!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WHY DID IT HAVE TO END THERE???? KC Kean,I genuinely don’t think I can truly function until I know what happens next. I absolutely devoured Angel of Ashes in one day. One thing I loved was that KC Kean didn’t spend forever sitting in the FMC’s heartbreak after the rejected mates situation. We get enough backstory to understand what happened and then it is FULL STEAM AHEAD. Ivy was easily my favorite part of this book. She’s strong, knows herself, and I loved how she carried herself when seeing her mates again. Relationship-wise, I’m SO torn. I loved that Sax wanted to work on fixing things with her almost right away. But Archer???? 🥵 Their connection is ELECTRIC. Also, as someone super close with my own siblings, I loved Ivy’s relationship with her brother. What really hooked me though was not fully understanding why she was rejected in the first place. I NEED answers. This felt like such a fresh take on rejected fated mates and if you love KC Kean, Tessa Hale, academy fantasy, or why choose romance, this one is absolutely for you. Now excuse me while I dramatically stare into the distance waiting for book 2.
WHY DID IT HAVE TO END THERE???? KC Kean,I genuinely don’t think I can truly function until I know what happens next. I absolutely devoured Angel of Ashes in one day. One thing I loved was that KC Kean didn’t spend forever sitting in the FMC’s heartbreak after the rejected mates situation. We get enough backstory to understand what happened and then it is FULL STEAM AHEAD. Ivy was easily my favorite part of this book. She’s strong, knows herself, and I loved how she carried herself when seeing her mates again. Relationship-wise, I’m SO torn. I loved that Sax wanted to work on fixing things with her almost right away. But Archer???? 🥵 Their connection is ELECTRIC. Also, as someone super close with my own siblings, I loved Ivy’s relationship with her brother. What really hooked me though was not fully understanding why she was rejected in the first place. I NEED answers. This felt like such a fresh take on rejected fated mates and if you love KC Kean, Tessa Hale, academy fantasy, or why choose romance, this one is absolutely for you. Now excuse me while I dramatically stare into the distance waiting for book 2.
May 26, 2026
I really enjoyed the first book in this new series and was hooked enough that I'll definitely be continuing. KC has created a fantastic new academy setting and world that feels fresh, with plenty of mystery, danger, and unanswered questions to keep me invested.
My biggest issue was with the FMC's character and the romance development with her and the guys. She started out angry, fierce, and ready to burn the world down, but I felt like she let go of that anger and strong independent woman attitude a little too quickly. I wanted to see her hold onto that edge longer and make the guys work a little harder to earn some brownie points. The relationships seemed to go from cold to hot fairly fast, and the transition wasn't as smooth or gradual as I've come to expect from KC's other books.
That said, the story itself was highly entertaining, the academy was intriguing, and the world-building has me excited to see where the series goes next. And, true to KC form, we're left with a cliffhanger that has me immediately wanting the next book.
Overall, not quite a five-star read for me, but still a very enjoyable start to what looks like a promising series.
My biggest issue was with the FMC's character and the romance development with her and the guys. She started out angry, fierce, and ready to burn the world down, but I felt like she let go of that anger and strong independent woman attitude a little too quickly. I wanted to see her hold onto that edge longer and make the guys work a little harder to earn some brownie points. The relationships seemed to go from cold to hot fairly fast, and the transition wasn't as smooth or gradual as I've come to expect from KC's other books.
That said, the story itself was highly entertaining, the academy was intriguing, and the world-building has me excited to see where the series goes next. And, true to KC form, we're left with a cliffhanger that has me immediately wanting the next book.
Overall, not quite a five-star read for me, but still a very enjoyable start to what looks like a promising series.
May 29, 2026
I feel as though this is completely different to all of KC's other series and I am here for it.
Who doesn't love a good fated mates book?
Ivy has lived under the shadow of her father's power obsession her whole life. Her one hope of escape was her fated mate accepting her so that she could go to Neverbound Academy and be nothing but herself. That didn't happen. Turns out she didn't have a fated mate. She had four. And they rejected her meaning another two years stuck in her own personal hell. Until the day of her arranged marriage when they showed up like nothing happened and changed her life.
She thought the academy would be a dream come true. She couldn't have been more wrong. The guys hate her almost as much as she hates them and she's two years behind on the study material as well as finding her magic. She is no longer the Angel of Heaven's Ridge. Now, she is a target for students and teachers.
Just when she thought she was out of her father's reach, a visit to the academy changes everything but we don't know yet if it's for better or worse.
The queen of cliffies landed it again.
Who doesn't love a good fated mates book?
Ivy has lived under the shadow of her father's power obsession her whole life. Her one hope of escape was her fated mate accepting her so that she could go to Neverbound Academy and be nothing but herself. That didn't happen. Turns out she didn't have a fated mate. She had four. And they rejected her meaning another two years stuck in her own personal hell. Until the day of her arranged marriage when they showed up like nothing happened and changed her life.
She thought the academy would be a dream come true. She couldn't have been more wrong. The guys hate her almost as much as she hates them and she's two years behind on the study material as well as finding her magic. She is no longer the Angel of Heaven's Ridge. Now, she is a target for students and teachers.
Just when she thought she was out of her father's reach, a visit to the academy changes everything but we don't know yet if it's for better or worse.
The queen of cliffies landed it again.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, what an explosive start to the Neverbound Academy series! Ivy is getting ready to finally find out who her fated mates are and hopefully escape her horrible father, but everything goes wrong when she gets rejected and is forced to stay under her father’s control. Then Asher, Baron, Sax, and Teddy suddenly want her back and bring her to Neverbound Academy with them.
I really loved Ivy, plus Ember her sprite and Meadow her best friend. Watching some of the guys try to win Ivy back was emotional because being rejected like that would be so hard to forgive. You could really feel her hurt and anger.
This book also left me with SO many questions. What was that secret meeting about and why are they all so interested in Ivy? And why are her mates and brother okay with people talking about her like she’s just something to use? It feels like there’s a lot more going on with her than anyone is saying.
And that ending?! That cliffhanger was insane 😳 I need the next book immediately because I have to know what Ivy can really do after that ending. Loved every page!
I really loved Ivy, plus Ember her sprite and Meadow her best friend. Watching some of the guys try to win Ivy back was emotional because being rejected like that would be so hard to forgive. You could really feel her hurt and anger.
This book also left me with SO many questions. What was that secret meeting about and why are they all so interested in Ivy? And why are her mates and brother okay with people talking about her like she’s just something to use? It feels like there’s a lot more going on with her than anyone is saying.
And that ending?! That cliffhanger was insane 😳 I need the next book immediately because I have to know what Ivy can really do after that ending. Loved every page!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly I need to acknowledge that I utterly consumed this book in one sitting, finishing at 2:30am - yes! It’s one of those books that you never want to put down.
I was mesmerised by the storyline, the world building was intriguing- an academy the boys could go to but the girls can’t go until they meet their fated mate/mates…🤔
There are so many times I had to ponder a tiny little Easter egg, which were brilliantly included which all made sense at the end.
The possessiveness of the mates was hot AF, even though you want to hate them for the way they brutally rejected Ivy and due to that she had to deal with her terrible parents for years while they got to attend the Academy and get their powers.
The cliffhanger ending was torture!!!
This is the first book of this series, it’s done all the ground work and we have got to know the characters a little bit, but i feel that there is a lot more to know about the guys.
All I can say is that I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2 - I already know this series is going to be phenomenal.
I was mesmerised by the storyline, the world building was intriguing- an academy the boys could go to but the girls can’t go until they meet their fated mate/mates…🤔
There are so many times I had to ponder a tiny little Easter egg, which were brilliantly included which all made sense at the end.
The possessiveness of the mates was hot AF, even though you want to hate them for the way they brutally rejected Ivy and due to that she had to deal with her terrible parents for years while they got to attend the Academy and get their powers.
The cliffhanger ending was torture!!!
This is the first book of this series, it’s done all the ground work and we have got to know the characters a little bit, but i feel that there is a lot more to know about the guys.
All I can say is that I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2 - I already know this series is going to be phenomenal.
May 26, 2026
Angel of Ashes (Book 1 - Neverbound Academy series)
Out now! ❤️🔥 By @kckeanauthor
I was drawn in immediately with curiosity of where the plot was going to take us. I love the academy houses as Land, Air, Fire and Water, but the Sprites are so freaking cool. Ember is hilarious and now I wish I had my own Sprite 🔥
Poor Ivy, no one cares that maybe she doesn’t like the title bestowed upon her cause of her father’s position. Many have made up their minds about her and she has to deal with the mean girls. 👀
So many secrets lurking and the fates have challenges for Ivy, unfortunately starting with her fated mates who reject her, all four of them 🥺 Don’t worry y’all she’s a strong FMC 😉
Fantasy Academia
Fated Mates
Rejection
Why Choose
Second Chance
Secrets
Sprites
Shifters/Animal Companions
Possessive MMCs
If you love why choose, I always recommend dipping your toes in @kckeanauthor books. I’m so happy to be on her ARC team the past couple of years now. I’m ready for book two in this new series.
#kckeanbooks #kckeanauthor #fantasybooks
May 31, 2026
I was super excited for this one. I’ve read a couple of this author’s other series, and really enjoyed them. However, this one definitely missed the mark.
I wanted to love this one. I really did. I’ve been on such an academia kick lately, and this one sounded like something I would really like. I felt like we went nowhere with this first book. There was a bunch that happened, but yet it all seemed to be all over the place and didn’t come together. Plus, there were day jumps that just felt spacey and I like I was missing something.
I felt like there was so much potential for the FMC to have this amazing and badaśś growth and she just didn’t. Every step forward was then met with two steps back.
There were also some errors with the FMC’s brother’s dragon where within the same sentence, she would be referred to as her, but then him. This happened multiple times within the same sentences all within the same chapter. It threw me off and made me stop and go back to try to figure out if the dragon was a he or she.
I wanted to love this one. I really did. I’ve been on such an academia kick lately, and this one sounded like something I would really like. I felt like we went nowhere with this first book. There was a bunch that happened, but yet it all seemed to be all over the place and didn’t come together. Plus, there were day jumps that just felt spacey and I like I was missing something.
I felt like there was so much potential for the FMC to have this amazing and badaśś growth and she just didn’t. Every step forward was then met with two steps back.
There were also some errors with the FMC’s brother’s dragon where within the same sentence, she would be referred to as her, but then him. This happened multiple times within the same sentences all within the same chapter. It threw me off and made me stop and go back to try to figure out if the dragon was a he or she.
June 7, 2026
Not my favorite from Kean
I am normally a big fan of Kean's worlds, but I did not resonate or manage to connect with the FMC, or the MMCs. There wasn't anything redeeming about them, and they did nothing to deserve any kindness or forgiveness. I didn't feel much about this book except for an overwhelming amount of bullying with little reward, and a FMC that doesn't actually do anything but get attacked non-stop the whole book. Even her brother was a POS, and she allowed him to treat her poorly and forgave far too easily. I struggle with reading books with weak FMCs, and I'm not used to Kean writing them. Her only interest was fencing, and even in that she wasn't even able to beat her brother or Teddy. I realize this is a harsh review, but I was truly shocked to feel so discordant with this book. I will try to read the next when it comes out, but I don't believe any of the fated mates deserve anything (they're still irredeemable and their interest in her didn't feel legitimate), and she is quite boring and weak. Sorry, this one was a rare struggle.
I am normally a big fan of Kean's worlds, but I did not resonate or manage to connect with the FMC, or the MMCs. There wasn't anything redeeming about them, and they did nothing to deserve any kindness or forgiveness. I didn't feel much about this book except for an overwhelming amount of bullying with little reward, and a FMC that doesn't actually do anything but get attacked non-stop the whole book. Even her brother was a POS, and she allowed him to treat her poorly and forgave far too easily. I struggle with reading books with weak FMCs, and I'm not used to Kean writing them. Her only interest was fencing, and even in that she wasn't even able to beat her brother or Teddy. I realize this is a harsh review, but I was truly shocked to feel so discordant with this book. I will try to read the next when it comes out, but I don't believe any of the fated mates deserve anything (they're still irredeemable and their interest in her didn't feel legitimate), and she is quite boring and weak. Sorry, this one was a rare struggle.
May 26, 2026
I'm in love! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. It was so good and the storyline and characters sucked me right in. Ivy is considered the Angel of her town and everyone looks up to her. She only wants to get away from her power hungry father and image obsessed mother. The perfect reason to leave, being paired with her fated mate and going with him to the magic academy. Except at the pairing ceremony all four of her mates reject her. She's heartbroken for so many reasons. Then two years later, they come back to claim her and bring her to the academy. She's not ready to forgive, they don't regret what they did and she's got two years of school to make up for. Plus there's secrets that haven't been fully revealed. I love this world that Kean has built, and the characters are so dynamic. Of course there's a cliffhanger that just leaves you with more questions and wanting more. Can't wait for book 2.
May 27, 2026
Just what I needed!
Yes, yes, yes! I've been craving something edgy and fantasy based lately... and then Angel of Ashes released.
This first new book in the Nevermore Academy series gave me a great new world to immerse myself in filled with mates, magic, and an academy setting. Plus a feud between the kingdoms and so many delicious secrets.
Sold!
I was drawn to the rejected mate part of this story, but the mysteries surrounding Ivy's life really pulled me into the story. The way her parents had complete control over everything in her life. How her brother was talking with her rejected mates more than her. The mysteries at Nevermore. Why did her mates reject her? And why did they decide to bring her Nevermore two years later?
What is the real agenda?
But my biggest question was why would the author leave us on such an emotionally charged ending like that? I mean... I'm stunned and desperate for more.
Book two can't come fast enough! I need it!
Yes, yes, yes! I've been craving something edgy and fantasy based lately... and then Angel of Ashes released.
This first new book in the Nevermore Academy series gave me a great new world to immerse myself in filled with mates, magic, and an academy setting. Plus a feud between the kingdoms and so many delicious secrets.
Sold!
I was drawn to the rejected mate part of this story, but the mysteries surrounding Ivy's life really pulled me into the story. The way her parents had complete control over everything in her life. How her brother was talking with her rejected mates more than her. The mysteries at Nevermore. Why did her mates reject her? And why did they decide to bring her Nevermore two years later?
What is the real agenda?
But my biggest question was why would the author leave us on such an emotionally charged ending like that? I mean... I'm stunned and desperate for more.
Book two can't come fast enough! I need it!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews