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Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin #3
Warrior of Embers
Lost in a maze where tricks and lies twist the mind, Lore and I must hold onto our love before we forget it ever existed.
I thought our love was enough. That together, Lore and I could defy fate, outmaneuver curses, and carve a new future. I was wrong.
Halendor Court was waiting for us. King Tallin, with his cruel smirk and power-soaked arrogance, had already set a trap. When we stepped across his borders, he threw us into his labyrinth. Reach the end, and we'll receive the second talisman.
But the labyrinth isn't just a maze. It's a living, twisting thing, and I suspect it's alive. It's watching us. Hunting us. Contorting reality until we can't tell what's real and what's meant to break us. It steals memory, time, and reality, replacing what we know with whispers and lies that feel more real than truth. If we don't reach the end soon, it will consume us.
The labyrinth has stolen kings before. It will not claim mine.
Contains mature themes.
I thought our love was enough. That together, Lore and I could defy fate, outmaneuver curses, and carve a new future. I was wrong.
Halendor Court was waiting for us. King Tallin, with his cruel smirk and power-soaked arrogance, had already set a trap. When we stepped across his borders, he threw us into his labyrinth. Reach the end, and we'll receive the second talisman.
But the labyrinth isn't just a maze. It's a living, twisting thing, and I suspect it's alive. It's watching us. Hunting us. Contorting reality until we can't tell what's real and what's meant to break us. It steals memory, time, and reality, replacing what we know with whispers and lies that feel more real than truth. If we don't reach the end soon, it will consume us.
The labyrinth has stolen kings before. It will not claim mine.
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
First published September 1, 2025
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September 10, 2025
**𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘** 𝑾𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒓 𝒐𝒇 𝑬𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝒃𝒚 𝑨𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒂 𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔 (𝑲𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒅𝒐𝒎 𝒐𝒇 𝑺𝒉𝒂𝒅𝒐𝒘 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑹𝒖𝒊𝒏 𝑺𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒔 #3)
Release Date: September 1, 2025
3.75⭐️4🌶
This series continues to keep me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. This newly married couple are facing down all manner of monsters and physical trials. This book picks up right where Lady of Cinders left off. With Reyla just having solved the first part of the curse placed on Lore's family by the maligned Sorceress Prager, she has found out there is at least one more part to the curse that needs to be solve in order to save her beloved Lore.
Lore and Reyla, King and Queen of Evergorne Court, have traveled to King Tallan's Kingdom of Halendor to retrieve the Irridain talisman and end the second part of Lore's curse. Upon arrival, King Tallan throws them both into an unbeatable labyrinth in which Tallan's own son failed to solve and survive.
I will say that the first third of this book is very difficult to get through. With all the mind games and physical challenges, it seems that the main couple do not even have a second to rest. Well, maybe, a few spicy seconds to rest. Other than that, this book is go go go for the whole first half.
I'm hoping we get to see this couple have some peace after the end of this book. Plus, I will continue to read whatever Ms. Alaya Wells writes next.
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Arranged Marriage
🍁Body guard romance
🍁Enemies to lovers
🍁Class Systems
🍁Shadow Daddy
🍁Finding love after death
🍁Dragon riders
TW:
✨Violence
✨Poverty/hunger
✨Grief
✨Mourning the loss of prior love
✨Explicit spicy content
✨Power hungry courtiers who attempt killing each other and the royals
Release Date: September 1, 2025
3.75⭐️4🌶
This series continues to keep me on the edge of my seat and wanting more. This newly married couple are facing down all manner of monsters and physical trials. This book picks up right where Lady of Cinders left off. With Reyla just having solved the first part of the curse placed on Lore's family by the maligned Sorceress Prager, she has found out there is at least one more part to the curse that needs to be solve in order to save her beloved Lore.
Lore and Reyla, King and Queen of Evergorne Court, have traveled to King Tallan's Kingdom of Halendor to retrieve the Irridain talisman and end the second part of Lore's curse. Upon arrival, King Tallan throws them both into an unbeatable labyrinth in which Tallan's own son failed to solve and survive.
I will say that the first third of this book is very difficult to get through. With all the mind games and physical challenges, it seems that the main couple do not even have a second to rest. Well, maybe, a few spicy seconds to rest. Other than that, this book is go go go for the whole first half.
I'm hoping we get to see this couple have some peace after the end of this book. Plus, I will continue to read whatever Ms. Alaya Wells writes next.
Themes/Tropes:
🍁Arranged Marriage
🍁Body guard romance
🍁Enemies to lovers
🍁Class Systems
🍁Shadow Daddy
🍁Finding love after death
🍁Dragon riders
TW:
✨Violence
✨Poverty/hunger
✨Grief
✨Mourning the loss of prior love
✨Explicit spicy content
✨Power hungry courtiers who attempt killing each other and the royals
August 22, 2025
✨Warrior of Embers✨
I have come to the conclusion that it doesn’t matter what Alaya writes, I am going to read it, love it, and die over the romance because it’s always so beautiful and deep.
Here we are in book three of her most recent series (with ONE BOOK left coming out later this year!), following our delicious MCs. Now, because book 1&2 are so full of a wonderfully unique premise with our MMCs, I am going to keep names to a minimum. 🤭🤭
Ok, ok. So we arrive RIGHT where we left off at the end of book two: facing the labyrinth. In search of the second out of three talisman’s to save our MMC’s life, our MC’s are thrust into a vicious maze unlike any I’ve read about. It’s sentient and it’s harboring deep dark secrets. There are so many mind games; damning memories and accusations; hallucinations and promised futures; and it takes everything our MCs have to figure out how to best navigate it without losing themselves and their memories of each other.
Seeing our couple move through this maze with such grace and love despite the agony, was so fulfilling. Alaya always knows how to write a GREAT ROMANCE and it was just so delicious getting to see them work together while this labyrinth attempts to tear them apart. We still have steam, yearning, and quite a bit of spice! I think this could’ve been executed in half the time- perhaps added to the beginning of the finale, book four, as there’s a bit of repetition. But I do still love getting to be with our characters because I like who they are. This series is definitely a perfect fit for Romantasy lovers.
Tropes you may find in WOE are pet sidekick, established relationship, medium high spice, sentient labyrinth + trials, forced proximity, fated mates, mind games, prophecies, ever-shifting landscape, what can you truly trust?, love declarations, no one and no thing can be trusted, burn the world for him/her, touch him/her and 💀, and a cliffhanger, which is unusual for Alaya (🤭😜).
As always, it is a pleasure to be a part of your arc team, Alaya! Five arcs in with you, two series. It’s just such an honor!
I have come to the conclusion that it doesn’t matter what Alaya writes, I am going to read it, love it, and die over the romance because it’s always so beautiful and deep.
Here we are in book three of her most recent series (with ONE BOOK left coming out later this year!), following our delicious MCs. Now, because book 1&2 are so full of a wonderfully unique premise with our MMCs, I am going to keep names to a minimum. 🤭🤭
Ok, ok. So we arrive RIGHT where we left off at the end of book two: facing the labyrinth. In search of the second out of three talisman’s to save our MMC’s life, our MC’s are thrust into a vicious maze unlike any I’ve read about. It’s sentient and it’s harboring deep dark secrets. There are so many mind games; damning memories and accusations; hallucinations and promised futures; and it takes everything our MCs have to figure out how to best navigate it without losing themselves and their memories of each other.
Seeing our couple move through this maze with such grace and love despite the agony, was so fulfilling. Alaya always knows how to write a GREAT ROMANCE and it was just so delicious getting to see them work together while this labyrinth attempts to tear them apart. We still have steam, yearning, and quite a bit of spice! I think this could’ve been executed in half the time- perhaps added to the beginning of the finale, book four, as there’s a bit of repetition. But I do still love getting to be with our characters because I like who they are. This series is definitely a perfect fit for Romantasy lovers.
Tropes you may find in WOE are pet sidekick, established relationship, medium high spice, sentient labyrinth + trials, forced proximity, fated mates, mind games, prophecies, ever-shifting landscape, what can you truly trust?, love declarations, no one and no thing can be trusted, burn the world for him/her, touch him/her and 💀, and a cliffhanger, which is unusual for Alaya (🤭😜).
As always, it is a pleasure to be a part of your arc team, Alaya! Five arcs in with you, two series. It’s just such an honor!
January 9, 2026
painful
This book was painful to read. They were stuck in a labyrinth and it felt like a continuous repetition of the same torture with a slight twist each time. Every encounter was described in extreme detail and didn’t add anything to the story. I skimmed every sex scene and the declarations of love were far too many and often. Honestly this whole book could have been a third or a quarter of the size with some better editing.
This book was painful to read. They were stuck in a labyrinth and it felt like a continuous repetition of the same torture with a slight twist each time. Every encounter was described in extreme detail and didn’t add anything to the story. I skimmed every sex scene and the declarations of love were far too many and often. Honestly this whole book could have been a third or a quarter of the size with some better editing.
June 13, 2026
[Review of the ALC, courtesy of NetGalley and RBmedia]
To be honest, I'm so torn about this book. The first one started off so well, the second one was okay, but this one was just meh. The entire book is just a list of trials they keep going through. It felt repetitive, often boring, and not engaging—I wanted to DNF it multiple times.
Something about this series has been bugging me since the first book, and I finally figured out what it is: if the spicy scenes were removed, this could easily pass as a children's book.
It's a 3/5 for me. The narration was fine—slightly better than in the previous two books.
To be honest, I'm so torn about this book. The first one started off so well, the second one was okay, but this one was just meh. The entire book is just a list of trials they keep going through. It felt repetitive, often boring, and not engaging—I wanted to DNF it multiple times.
Something about this series has been bugging me since the first book, and I finally figured out what it is: if the spicy scenes were removed, this could easily pass as a children's book.
It's a 3/5 for me. The narration was fine—slightly better than in the previous two books.
July 18, 2026
I’m still interested in the concept behind this series, but Warrior of Embers continued to struggle with the same issues that made Lady of Cinders disappointing for me.
At 14.5 hours, we managed to accomplish one major objective, and the pacing continued to feel incredibly slow. The story had moments where it felt like it was building toward something, but I kept getting pulled out of the tension by repetitive dialogue and poorly timed spicy scenes.
I have no issue with spice when it fits the story, but when the characters are racing against a deadline, trapped in a supposedly inescapable labyrinth, and constantly reminded that time is running out, repeatedly stopping for intimate moments made the urgency disappear.
Reyla’s magic progression was also frustrating. After previously struggling to control her abilities, she suddenly becomes capable of mastering skills that were said to take years, and the explanation never really felt earned.
I listened to the audiobook, but I don’t think that was the issue here. The concept still has potential, but the execution continues to make it difficult for me to stay invested. I seriously considered DNFing this one, but I’m going to try to finish the series. For now, I need a break before moving on to the final book.
At 14.5 hours, we managed to accomplish one major objective, and the pacing continued to feel incredibly slow. The story had moments where it felt like it was building toward something, but I kept getting pulled out of the tension by repetitive dialogue and poorly timed spicy scenes.
I have no issue with spice when it fits the story, but when the characters are racing against a deadline, trapped in a supposedly inescapable labyrinth, and constantly reminded that time is running out, repeatedly stopping for intimate moments made the urgency disappear.
Reyla’s magic progression was also frustrating. After previously struggling to control her abilities, she suddenly becomes capable of mastering skills that were said to take years, and the explanation never really felt earned.
I listened to the audiobook, but I don’t think that was the issue here. The concept still has potential, but the execution continues to make it difficult for me to stay invested. I seriously considered DNFing this one, but I’m going to try to finish the series. For now, I need a break before moving on to the final book.
August 18, 2025
Okay Alaya, that was a wild ride! The action and suspense just never stopped! A sentient Labyrinth that is dark and dangerous and compelling. You just never knew what it was going to do next. The characters were amazing. Reyla went through so much trauma on her journey through the labyrinth in this book and like her badass self, she turned it all back 10 fold. The patience and perseverance she maintained was incredible. But once again, Alaya has left us dangling by the pinkie from that cliff.
If you want a Dark fantasy romance series that’s an easy read with a solid dose of spice, this is it!
If you want a Dark fantasy romance series that’s an easy read with a solid dose of spice, this is it!
August 16, 2025
Excellent dark fantasy romance! Spinechilling and suspenseful.. Devastating and fiery.. Amazing characters!
September 4, 2025
3.75⭐️
2.5🌶️
I have LOVED this series but book 3 is probably my least favorite so far. I still enjoyed it but I struggled at points to want to keep going.
This installment is Reyla and Lore’s travels through the Labyrinth to obtain the 2nd talisman to break Lore’s curse. There are a lot of trials, both physical, mental, and emotional for the pair. Who’s controlling this labyrinth? Prager or is it an entity of its own?
I liked this setting of the labyrinth and the trials but some of them just fell flat. One thing I’ve been waiting for in this series is to really tackle the idea of love after loss. I’ve felt like Kinart has barely been brought up when to me it’s key to Reyla’s growth. We finally got some scenes with him coming up, etc but I felt like we whisked by it so fast. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE how Reyla and Lore’s love is so true and supportive. I don’t need a Lore who’s jealous of a dead person obviously, but still would have loved more dive into that.
However, the big thing that truly saved and kept me in this book IS Reyla and Lore’s love. Talk about relationship goals. Lore is truly top tier book husband. That man is in awe of his wife and I love it!
We get a new character added in here too that I love and am so intrigued by! 😍
Also, I’m very curious in the direction this is going because not only are we dealing with Lore’s curse, but do we have other curses of dark magic that’s even older than that at play? There’s something going on with the other courts too, which I assume we’ll get to know the third court here next book.
We still get some good spice in here 🌶️ despite all that’s going on. I kind of actually love how it was kind of a “f*** what’s going on around us, we’re going to be with each other” vibe 🤣
Overall, still in love with this series. While book 3 took a small dip for me, it will not prevent me from reading book 4 at all!
2.5🌶️
I have LOVED this series but book 3 is probably my least favorite so far. I still enjoyed it but I struggled at points to want to keep going.
This installment is Reyla and Lore’s travels through the Labyrinth to obtain the 2nd talisman to break Lore’s curse. There are a lot of trials, both physical, mental, and emotional for the pair. Who’s controlling this labyrinth? Prager or is it an entity of its own?
I liked this setting of the labyrinth and the trials but some of them just fell flat. One thing I’ve been waiting for in this series is to really tackle the idea of love after loss. I’ve felt like Kinart has barely been brought up when to me it’s key to Reyla’s growth. We finally got some scenes with him coming up, etc but I felt like we whisked by it so fast. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE how Reyla and Lore’s love is so true and supportive. I don’t need a Lore who’s jealous of a dead person obviously, but still would have loved more dive into that.
However, the big thing that truly saved and kept me in this book IS Reyla and Lore’s love. Talk about relationship goals. Lore is truly top tier book husband. That man is in awe of his wife and I love it!
We get a new character added in here too that I love and am so intrigued by! 😍
Also, I’m very curious in the direction this is going because not only are we dealing with Lore’s curse, but do we have other curses of dark magic that’s even older than that at play? There’s something going on with the other courts too, which I assume we’ll get to know the third court here next book.
We still get some good spice in here 🌶️ despite all that’s going on. I kind of actually love how it was kind of a “f*** what’s going on around us, we’re going to be with each other” vibe 🤣
Overall, still in love with this series. While book 3 took a small dip for me, it will not prevent me from reading book 4 at all!
November 20, 2025
So, I was all in after the first book - sign me up for adventure, magic,and drama!
🥱🥱Then Warrior of Embers happened, and I was trapped with Lore and Reyla wandering around a sentient labyrinth (Maze) desperately searching for an exist sign or a window just for me to jump off😬
Every trial conquered with the sheer might of LOVE (all caps, because god forbid they miss a chance to remind us). If I had one euro for every time their love was reiterated, I would have enough a ticket out of that maze.
*Monotony-coma averted just in time*
By the time King Talllin of Halendor’s son showed up - name escapes me, but at least he brought some much needed caffeine - I was almost awake again.
Tschüss for now, but I’ll be back for the next book because hope springs eternal.
⭐️⭐️
🥱🥱Then Warrior of Embers happened, and I was trapped with Lore and Reyla wandering around a sentient labyrinth (Maze) desperately searching for an exist sign or a window just for me to jump off😬
Every trial conquered with the sheer might of LOVE (all caps, because god forbid they miss a chance to remind us). If I had one euro for every time their love was reiterated, I would have enough a ticket out of that maze.
*Monotony-coma averted just in time*
By the time King Talllin of Halendor’s son showed up - name escapes me, but at least he brought some much needed caffeine - I was almost awake again.
Tschüss for now, but I’ll be back for the next book because hope springs eternal.
⭐️⭐️
Want to Read
June 7, 2025Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin Series :
❌ 1. Bride of Ashes (March 1, 2025)
❌ 2. Lady of Cinders (June 1, 2025)
❌ 3. Warrior of Embers (September 1, 2025)
❌ 4. Queen of Flames (December 1, 2025)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DG991S1M?...
❌ 1. Bride of Ashes (March 1, 2025)
❌ 2. Lady of Cinders (June 1, 2025)
❌ 3. Warrior of Embers (September 1, 2025)
❌ 4. Queen of Flames (December 1, 2025)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DG991S1M?...
June 22, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley for this ALC. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I have to admit this has been my least favourite instalment in the series so far. The premise itself is strong, and I really enjoyed both the labyrinth setting and the trial‑based structure. However, some of the trials lacked impact, and the overall journey started to feel repetitive after a while.
We do get a few glimpses of Reyla’s first love, Kinart, but the moments are brief and don’t fully convey the depth of what he meant to her. I was hoping this book would finally explore her life after losing him, yet once again it leaned more toward telling rather than showing—a shame, considering how pivotal this loss is to Reyla’s character arc.
One thing I still adored was Lore and Reyla’s relationship. Their support for each other remains unwavering, even when things get dangerous in the labyrinth. Lore is absolutely down bad for his wife, which I love, though he did come across as a bit needy and slightly wet‑blanket‑ish at times—something I hope doesn’t continue.
Overall, it’s a decent addition to the series, and I’m still looking forward to seeing where the next book takes us.
I have to admit this has been my least favourite instalment in the series so far. The premise itself is strong, and I really enjoyed both the labyrinth setting and the trial‑based structure. However, some of the trials lacked impact, and the overall journey started to feel repetitive after a while.
We do get a few glimpses of Reyla’s first love, Kinart, but the moments are brief and don’t fully convey the depth of what he meant to her. I was hoping this book would finally explore her life after losing him, yet once again it leaned more toward telling rather than showing—a shame, considering how pivotal this loss is to Reyla’s character arc.
One thing I still adored was Lore and Reyla’s relationship. Their support for each other remains unwavering, even when things get dangerous in the labyrinth. Lore is absolutely down bad for his wife, which I love, though he did come across as a bit needy and slightly wet‑blanket‑ish at times—something I hope doesn’t continue.
Overall, it’s a decent addition to the series, and I’m still looking forward to seeing where the next book takes us.
August 20, 2025
Together evermore
This was another engaging installment of this dark romantic fantasy. I fell head first into this hard to put down story. This beautifully crafted and expertly delivered dark romantic fantasy novel will give you all the feels while also keeping you on the edge of your seat trying to figure stuff out. Expect a roller coaster of a story because instead of a slow ratcheting up of the intrigue, danger, mystery, and suspense, this part of the story starts with intensity and just never lets up. The book picked up right where the last book left off immediately after the first part of the curse is broken. Merrick and Lorant have merged and the first talisman had been located. Reyla and Lore have traveled to the Kingdom of Halendor to find the second talisman. Unfortunately, King Tallin and Prager are waiting for them and they are immediately thrust into the magical sentient labyrinth that no one has ever made it through. Now, without access to their magic, they will need to survive all the physical, emotional and psychological traps in the labyrinth in order to obtain the second talisman, try to save Lore’s life and break the curse before his 30th birthday. And oh boy the things the labyrinth throws at them while it is pawing through all their cracks and crevices. I loved that Reyla and Lore’s characters, despite their painful pasts, powerful families, and the task they have taken on, are portrayed as flawed and scarred people. They are kind, self-deprecating, and at times resentful which makes them very likeable and relatable heroes. They are heroes that value love above all else. The story has a little bit of everything just like you would expect from this genre - sweet moments, spice, real life issues, imperfect characters, dangerous moments, mystery, supernatural creatures, secrets, plot twists, painful pasts, evil actors, and love. This is book three in a continuing story which includes an overarching story arc woven throughout so to get the most enjoyment, start with book one. I am excited to read the final book in this series to see what happens next with Reyla and Lore as they try to break the next part of the curse especially after the cliffhanger. 4.5 stars.
This was another engaging installment of this dark romantic fantasy. I fell head first into this hard to put down story. This beautifully crafted and expertly delivered dark romantic fantasy novel will give you all the feels while also keeping you on the edge of your seat trying to figure stuff out. Expect a roller coaster of a story because instead of a slow ratcheting up of the intrigue, danger, mystery, and suspense, this part of the story starts with intensity and just never lets up. The book picked up right where the last book left off immediately after the first part of the curse is broken. Merrick and Lorant have merged and the first talisman had been located. Reyla and Lore have traveled to the Kingdom of Halendor to find the second talisman. Unfortunately, King Tallin and Prager are waiting for them and they are immediately thrust into the magical sentient labyrinth that no one has ever made it through. Now, without access to their magic, they will need to survive all the physical, emotional and psychological traps in the labyrinth in order to obtain the second talisman, try to save Lore’s life and break the curse before his 30th birthday. And oh boy the things the labyrinth throws at them while it is pawing through all their cracks and crevices. I loved that Reyla and Lore’s characters, despite their painful pasts, powerful families, and the task they have taken on, are portrayed as flawed and scarred people. They are kind, self-deprecating, and at times resentful which makes them very likeable and relatable heroes. They are heroes that value love above all else. The story has a little bit of everything just like you would expect from this genre - sweet moments, spice, real life issues, imperfect characters, dangerous moments, mystery, supernatural creatures, secrets, plot twists, painful pasts, evil actors, and love. This is book three in a continuing story which includes an overarching story arc woven throughout so to get the most enjoyment, start with book one. I am excited to read the final book in this series to see what happens next with Reyla and Lore as they try to break the next part of the curse especially after the cliffhanger. 4.5 stars.
August 31, 2025
After a heart wrenching journey through the labyrinth I thought Reyla and Lore would beat the curse. Nope...Alaya Wells has left my heart aching yet again with her cliff hangers. She even apologies for it at the end of the book.
This was such a well written story. It's very difficult,I imagine, writing so much emotion and soul destroying challenges for characters to face, when there are only 2 characters to build the plot from. It was engaging, as I said before, heart wrenching but also great to define the love Reyla and Lore have for each other. The hopeless romantic in me always wants love to conquer all.
Now I'm going to drink lots of cups of tea and bring my heart rate back to normal. I hope it's not too long for the next book????
This was such a well written story. It's very difficult,I imagine, writing so much emotion and soul destroying challenges for characters to face, when there are only 2 characters to build the plot from. It was engaging, as I said before, heart wrenching but also great to define the love Reyla and Lore have for each other. The hopeless romantic in me always wants love to conquer all.
Now I'm going to drink lots of cups of tea and bring my heart rate back to normal. I hope it's not too long for the next book????
August 24, 2025
Proud ARC reader ✨️
If you thought Alaya's previous book in the series ended on a cliffhanger, start to mentally prepare for this HUGE cliffhanger! (the apology is NOT accepted Alaya 🤣). Warrior of Embers takes place in a twisted and mind bendingly awful labyrinth. To get to the end, Reyla and Lore must battle their way through. And let me tell you, it's a wild ride! At some points it felt we got a bit lost but overall I really enjoyed the book and the journey it took me as the reader on. A good addition to the series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you thought Alaya's previous book in the series ended on a cliffhanger, start to mentally prepare for this HUGE cliffhanger! (the apology is NOT accepted Alaya 🤣). Warrior of Embers takes place in a twisted and mind bendingly awful labyrinth. To get to the end, Reyla and Lore must battle their way through. And let me tell you, it's a wild ride! At some points it felt we got a bit lost but overall I really enjoyed the book and the journey it took me as the reader on. A good addition to the series ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 8, 2025
I hate to say this but I was really disappointed by this one. It took me 5 days to read it, which is really long for me. I was OBSESSED with the 1st book and loved the 2nd. I so wanted to love this one, but I was bored until about 70% and had to force myself to keep reading. All that happened before then was them walking thru the maze and declaring their love for each other every other sentence. And I was really confused by the magic and how it all worked with the labyrinth. I’ll read the last bc I’m committed, but I hope it’s better than this one.
June 5, 2026
Alaya Wells has officially declared war on my emotions. 😭💔 Just when I convinced myself Reyla and Lore were finally gaining ground against the curse, this book came along and shattered every ounce of confidence I had. And that ending? I genuinely stared at the final page in disbelief. The fact that the author practically apologizes for the emotional damage afterward says everything you need to know. 😅
This installment throws readers straight back into the chaos without wasting a single moment. Following the events of the previous book, Reyla and Lore continue their desperate quest to break the curse, this time seeking the second talisman within the Kingdom of Halendor. What should have been another step toward freedom quickly becomes a nightmare when King Tallin and Prager force them into a deadly labyrinth unlike anything they've faced before. 🖤✨
The labyrinth itself was one of my favorite aspects of the story. It isn't simply a physical challenge—it digs into every hidden fear, insecurity, wound, and weakness Reyla and Lore carry. Without the safety of their magic, they're left vulnerable to trials that test their minds, emotions, and relationship in equal measure. Every chapter felt intense, and I never knew what devastating obstacle would appear next. 🌀⚔️
What continues to make this series so compelling is Reyla and Lore themselves. Despite their extraordinary circumstances, they never feel larger than life. They're flawed, emotionally scarred, stubborn, compassionate, and deeply human. Their struggles feel real, and their reactions to everything they're forced to endure make them easy to connect with. I found myself rooting for them even harder because of their imperfections. ❤️
Their relationship remains the emotional center of the story. Through every painful setback, impossible decision, and heartbreaking revelation, the love between Reyla and Lore shines through. As someone who always wants romance to triumph against impossible odds, this book had me hanging onto every small victory and every tender moment. 🥹💕 There are sweet scenes, passionate moments, and genuine emotional vulnerability that make their bond feel stronger with every challenge they face.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Rather than slowly building tension, the story launches into danger almost immediately and never eases up. Mystery, suspense, emotional turmoil, supernatural threats, shocking discoveries, and unexpected twists constantly keep the story moving. Every time I thought I understood where things were headed, Alaya Wells found a new way to surprise me. 🔥👀
I also appreciated how much depth was woven into the fantasy elements. Alongside the magical quest and curse-breaking mission, there are themes of family, sacrifice, grief, resilience, and hope. The balance between fantasy adventure and emotional storytelling is incredibly well done. ✨📖
This series absolutely needs to be read in order because each book builds directly on the larger storyline. If you've already fallen in love with Reyla and Lore, prepare yourself for another emotional roller coaster filled with danger, heartbreak, romance, and impossible choices.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the final book because after that cliffhanger, I need answers immediately. 😭📚💔✨
This installment throws readers straight back into the chaos without wasting a single moment. Following the events of the previous book, Reyla and Lore continue their desperate quest to break the curse, this time seeking the second talisman within the Kingdom of Halendor. What should have been another step toward freedom quickly becomes a nightmare when King Tallin and Prager force them into a deadly labyrinth unlike anything they've faced before. 🖤✨
The labyrinth itself was one of my favorite aspects of the story. It isn't simply a physical challenge—it digs into every hidden fear, insecurity, wound, and weakness Reyla and Lore carry. Without the safety of their magic, they're left vulnerable to trials that test their minds, emotions, and relationship in equal measure. Every chapter felt intense, and I never knew what devastating obstacle would appear next. 🌀⚔️
What continues to make this series so compelling is Reyla and Lore themselves. Despite their extraordinary circumstances, they never feel larger than life. They're flawed, emotionally scarred, stubborn, compassionate, and deeply human. Their struggles feel real, and their reactions to everything they're forced to endure make them easy to connect with. I found myself rooting for them even harder because of their imperfections. ❤️
Their relationship remains the emotional center of the story. Through every painful setback, impossible decision, and heartbreaking revelation, the love between Reyla and Lore shines through. As someone who always wants romance to triumph against impossible odds, this book had me hanging onto every small victory and every tender moment. 🥹💕 There are sweet scenes, passionate moments, and genuine emotional vulnerability that make their bond feel stronger with every challenge they face.
The pacing is relentless in the best possible way. Rather than slowly building tension, the story launches into danger almost immediately and never eases up. Mystery, suspense, emotional turmoil, supernatural threats, shocking discoveries, and unexpected twists constantly keep the story moving. Every time I thought I understood where things were headed, Alaya Wells found a new way to surprise me. 🔥👀
I also appreciated how much depth was woven into the fantasy elements. Alongside the magical quest and curse-breaking mission, there are themes of family, sacrifice, grief, resilience, and hope. The balance between fantasy adventure and emotional storytelling is incredibly well done. ✨📖
This series absolutely needs to be read in order because each book builds directly on the larger storyline. If you've already fallen in love with Reyla and Lore, prepare yourself for another emotional roller coaster filled with danger, heartbreak, romance, and impossible choices.
Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the final book because after that cliffhanger, I need answers immediately. 😭📚💔✨
September 1, 2025
I’m just loving this series. I never know quite what to expect from each book except that it will be a complete rollercoaster of a ride and will no doubt have the most unexpected and jaw dropping cliffhanger, that leaves you wanting the next book immediately. WoE is no exception. I couldn’t read it quickly enough and it was definitely a page turner for me.
This book starts off right where book 2 finished, with our MCs ready to face the labyrinth and whatever horrors it holds. The whole book centres around their journey through this labyrinth and the trials they face within it. Can they stick together? Can love actually conquer all and get them through? It quickly becomes clear that the labyrinth is sentient and it throws the couple into trials that make them face their deepest darkest fears and failures. They are up against illusions, mind games and future predictions.
I liked the switch to focusing on the two MCs in this book, without their usual supporting cast of characters. It gave the book a slightly different feel to the previous ones as a result. The dialogue between the two MCs felt repetitive a number of times throughout the story, but this didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the narrative for me. There was plenty of action and plot twists to keep the story engaging, immersive and well paced.
That cliffhanger though!!!! Alaya what are you trying to do to us? I’m trusting in the process though and very much looking forward to the final book in this series.
I was privileged to be given the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy - thank you Alaya. All thoughts and opinions are my own and honestly/voluntarily given.
This book starts off right where book 2 finished, with our MCs ready to face the labyrinth and whatever horrors it holds. The whole book centres around their journey through this labyrinth and the trials they face within it. Can they stick together? Can love actually conquer all and get them through? It quickly becomes clear that the labyrinth is sentient and it throws the couple into trials that make them face their deepest darkest fears and failures. They are up against illusions, mind games and future predictions.
I liked the switch to focusing on the two MCs in this book, without their usual supporting cast of characters. It gave the book a slightly different feel to the previous ones as a result. The dialogue between the two MCs felt repetitive a number of times throughout the story, but this didn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the narrative for me. There was plenty of action and plot twists to keep the story engaging, immersive and well paced.
That cliffhanger though!!!! Alaya what are you trying to do to us? I’m trusting in the process though and very much looking forward to the final book in this series.
I was privileged to be given the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy - thank you Alaya. All thoughts and opinions are my own and honestly/voluntarily given.
June 10, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for providing me with an advance listening copy of Warrior of Embers by Alaya Wells in exchange for an honest review.
Warrior of Embers picks up the pace compared to the previous books in the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series, and I appreciated that things moved more quickly this time around. However, I found myself struggling with how repetitive the story became. The constant reaffirmations of love between the main characters started to feel excessive and lost much of their emotional impact. What should have been heartfelt eventually became tedious, and by the end, I felt the series could have been wrapped up with this book rather than continuing into a fourth installment.
As an audiobook, the production remained solid and featured the same narrators from the previous books. Overall, they continue to bring the story to life and maintain consistency across the series. The female narrator, in particular, delivered the emotional moments well, but I occasionally had difficulty distinguishing between characters. Many secondary characters sounded very similar to one another or to her regular speaking voice, which sometimes made it hard to tell who was speaking without context.
While this installment moved faster than its predecessors, the repetitive relationship dynamics kept it from being as engaging as I had hoped. Fans already invested in the series will likely want to continue the journey, but for me, this felt like a story that had already reached a natural stopping point.
Warrior of Embers picks up the pace compared to the previous books in the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series, and I appreciated that things moved more quickly this time around. However, I found myself struggling with how repetitive the story became. The constant reaffirmations of love between the main characters started to feel excessive and lost much of their emotional impact. What should have been heartfelt eventually became tedious, and by the end, I felt the series could have been wrapped up with this book rather than continuing into a fourth installment.
As an audiobook, the production remained solid and featured the same narrators from the previous books. Overall, they continue to bring the story to life and maintain consistency across the series. The female narrator, in particular, delivered the emotional moments well, but I occasionally had difficulty distinguishing between characters. Many secondary characters sounded very similar to one another or to her regular speaking voice, which sometimes made it hard to tell who was speaking without context.
While this installment moved faster than its predecessors, the repetitive relationship dynamics kept it from being as engaging as I had hoped. Fans already invested in the series will likely want to continue the journey, but for me, this felt like a story that had already reached a natural stopping point.
July 8, 2026
3.5 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The labyrinth vibe of this book gave a good break from the same setting of the previous two books and yet I didn't expect it to be the entire story.
I genuinely think they could have made it out halfway through the book and started on the next task as there was just so much unnecessary detail.
The pacing was super slow and I spent a lot of time urging the characters to hurry up. I'm sorry, but if you're trying to get out of a place that wants you dead and you only have a small amount of time before one of you succumbs to a curse, maybe get a move on rather than washing your clothes in a river.
It felt like there wasn't much point to this book and it could have been reduced to a section so the overarching storyline continued and helped maintain interest.
The characters don't really develop much either and there's a lot of "I love her" and "I love him", which got grating after a while. The spicy scenes were also way more cringe than in the last book.
As with the other books in this series, the female narrator is far stronger than the male. She puts emotion into her voice whereas I find his performance is a bit flat and all one note.
I'm this far in now so I will read the last book but this is my least favourite of the series so far.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
The labyrinth vibe of this book gave a good break from the same setting of the previous two books and yet I didn't expect it to be the entire story.
I genuinely think they could have made it out halfway through the book and started on the next task as there was just so much unnecessary detail.
The pacing was super slow and I spent a lot of time urging the characters to hurry up. I'm sorry, but if you're trying to get out of a place that wants you dead and you only have a small amount of time before one of you succumbs to a curse, maybe get a move on rather than washing your clothes in a river.
It felt like there wasn't much point to this book and it could have been reduced to a section so the overarching storyline continued and helped maintain interest.
The characters don't really develop much either and there's a lot of "I love her" and "I love him", which got grating after a while. The spicy scenes were also way more cringe than in the last book.
As with the other books in this series, the female narrator is far stronger than the male. She puts emotion into her voice whereas I find his performance is a bit flat and all one note.
I'm this far in now so I will read the last book but this is my least favourite of the series so far.
June 9, 2026
I received a free ALC of this book. These thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
***Potential spoilers if you haven't read the previous two books.***
This book starts going into the labyrinth and the whole book is about then trying to get out and find the talisman needed to end the curse. Many of the scenes felt repetitive, like they were different versions of the same thing. They didn't add anything new to the story or even truly help with character growth. They honestly could have cut half the book and it would have had better action/pace.
This is the third book. They need three talismans to potentially break the curse, and when the book starts they have three weeks to find the last two. I feel like this book (maybe even the first two as well) was overly drawn out to make a series, when things could have been condensed to keep the action going. Do you really need a whole book to figure out there is actually a curse? Another to break the first part? Then a third to get one piece needed to finally end the curse? And there's still a fourth book to come since things weren't fully wrapped up and it ended on a "does this person actually die?" cliff hanger!
The bare bones of this series are good, the plot is interesting, the characters are okay, I just wish it wasn't so drawn out.
Moderate language, moderate frequent spice.
***Potential spoilers if you haven't read the previous two books.***
This book starts going into the labyrinth and the whole book is about then trying to get out and find the talisman needed to end the curse. Many of the scenes felt repetitive, like they were different versions of the same thing. They didn't add anything new to the story or even truly help with character growth. They honestly could have cut half the book and it would have had better action/pace.
This is the third book. They need three talismans to potentially break the curse, and when the book starts they have three weeks to find the last two. I feel like this book (maybe even the first two as well) was overly drawn out to make a series, when things could have been condensed to keep the action going. Do you really need a whole book to figure out there is actually a curse? Another to break the first part? Then a third to get one piece needed to finally end the curse? And there's still a fourth book to come since things weren't fully wrapped up and it ended on a "does this person actually die?" cliff hanger!
The bare bones of this series are good, the plot is interesting, the characters are okay, I just wish it wasn't so drawn out.
Moderate language, moderate frequent spice.
June 12, 2026
⭐️⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
The first step toward breaking Lore's curse has finally been achieved, but nothing comes easy for Reyla and Lore. In this third novel of the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series, the pair embark on a dangerous quest to find the second talisman needed to defeat both the curse and Prager. Their journey leads them into a treacherous labyrinth that pushes them to their limits emotionally, psychologically, and physically.
This series continues to get stronger with each book. The stakes are higher, the challenges more intense, and I find myself rooting for Reyla and Lore more and more with every installment. Their relationship remains one of my favorite aspects of the story. It’s full of passion, loyalty, and unwavering devotion, even in the face of impossible odds.
The labyrinth itself was a fascinating setting, creating tension and uncertainty at every turn. One line that perfectly captures its sinister nature is: "It rewrites souls before swallowing them whole." That sense of danger and psychological warfare permeates the entire adventure.
I would highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy quests, deadly trials, compelling romance and of course, loyal fluffy companions.
Thank you to NetGalley, Alaya Wells, and Tantor Media for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
The first step toward breaking Lore's curse has finally been achieved, but nothing comes easy for Reyla and Lore. In this third novel of the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series, the pair embark on a dangerous quest to find the second talisman needed to defeat both the curse and Prager. Their journey leads them into a treacherous labyrinth that pushes them to their limits emotionally, psychologically, and physically.
This series continues to get stronger with each book. The stakes are higher, the challenges more intense, and I find myself rooting for Reyla and Lore more and more with every installment. Their relationship remains one of my favorite aspects of the story. It’s full of passion, loyalty, and unwavering devotion, even in the face of impossible odds.
The labyrinth itself was a fascinating setting, creating tension and uncertainty at every turn. One line that perfectly captures its sinister nature is: "It rewrites souls before swallowing them whole." That sense of danger and psychological warfare permeates the entire adventure.
I would highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy quests, deadly trials, compelling romance and of course, loyal fluffy companions.
Thank you to NetGalley, Alaya Wells, and Tantor Media for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2025
The best word is disappointing….. This book had SO MUCH potential. But it got muddled out by inconsistent plot, overly repetitive proclamations of love, and confusing paragraph structure to the point it’s unclear who’s talking.
it’s hard to explain without spoiling, but I’m going to try. Especially because the book hasn’t officially come out yet. I went on Amazon to pre-order it and it just shipped it.
Right off the bat I was upset by the information changing. She’s done this in smaller ways throughout the series, which is super frustrating given that this is supposed to be a romance fantasy with puzzles and mystery. The first chapter is a retelling of the last chapter of book two from a different POV. And key information is changed. Which seems to be a bad habit for this author. Please, please, please plot better!!!
There was way too much telling and not showing. And oh my goodness, it felt like half the book was the two leads proclaiming the depths of their love in the most swallow of ways. There was real opportunity to grow their bond, and strengthen their love, give it real teeth. But instead they stayed in the passion filled honeymoon superficial love.
Just really disappointed. Do not recommend.
it’s hard to explain without spoiling, but I’m going to try. Especially because the book hasn’t officially come out yet. I went on Amazon to pre-order it and it just shipped it.
Right off the bat I was upset by the information changing. She’s done this in smaller ways throughout the series, which is super frustrating given that this is supposed to be a romance fantasy with puzzles and mystery. The first chapter is a retelling of the last chapter of book two from a different POV. And key information is changed. Which seems to be a bad habit for this author. Please, please, please plot better!!!
There was way too much telling and not showing. And oh my goodness, it felt like half the book was the two leads proclaiming the depths of their love in the most swallow of ways. There was real opportunity to grow their bond, and strengthen their love, give it real teeth. But instead they stayed in the passion filled honeymoon superficial love.
Just really disappointed. Do not recommend.
June 21, 2026
Narrated by Reese Grey and Rowan Hayes
3⭐️
This is the third book in the series, and while it has an interesting premise, the overall story is taking a very long time to reach its conclusion. I was hoping this would be the finale, especially given the way the plot seemed to be building toward a resolution, but it ends on yet another cliffhanger.
I do enjoy the characters and the chemistry between them. In this installment, they must navigate an evil maze and locate talismans needed to break the curse on Lore. The maze itself is intriguing, but the mind games and challenges within it make up about 95% of the book, leaving very little progress on the larger storyline.
Despite my frustration with the pacing, I am invested enough in the characters and the overall plot that I plan to read the next book. I want to see how the author ultimately concludes the series. I just wish there were more forward momentum, with events unfolding over hours rather than feeling stretched out over days.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the review copy.
3⭐️
This is the third book in the series, and while it has an interesting premise, the overall story is taking a very long time to reach its conclusion. I was hoping this would be the finale, especially given the way the plot seemed to be building toward a resolution, but it ends on yet another cliffhanger.
I do enjoy the characters and the chemistry between them. In this installment, they must navigate an evil maze and locate talismans needed to break the curse on Lore. The maze itself is intriguing, but the mind games and challenges within it make up about 95% of the book, leaving very little progress on the larger storyline.
Despite my frustration with the pacing, I am invested enough in the characters and the overall plot that I plan to read the next book. I want to see how the author ultimately concludes the series. I just wish there were more forward momentum, with events unfolding over hours rather than feeling stretched out over days.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tantor Media for the review copy.
July 18, 2026
After how much I loved the previous book, I was so excited to dive into this book, but unfortunately it ended up being a bit of a letdown for me.
The majority of the story felt like Reyla and Lore were stuck wandering through the labyrinth, with one emotional or physical battle after another. While there were some interesting moments, it became repetitive, and I found myself waiting for the plot to move forward. The spicy scenes also felt a little randomly inserted rather than adding much to the story.
I also struggled with Dorian’s character. He had survived in the labyrinth for five years, yet when he finally encountered other people, he still wasn’t upfront about everything he knew or how they could escape. That made it difficult for me to trust his motives, and I spent most of the book expecting him to betray the group.
Overall, after the hype and the strength of the previous book, this one didn’t quite deliver for me. I’m still invested enough to continue the series because I want to see where the story goes, but this was definitely my least favourite so far.
The majority of the story felt like Reyla and Lore were stuck wandering through the labyrinth, with one emotional or physical battle after another. While there were some interesting moments, it became repetitive, and I found myself waiting for the plot to move forward. The spicy scenes also felt a little randomly inserted rather than adding much to the story.
I also struggled with Dorian’s character. He had survived in the labyrinth for five years, yet when he finally encountered other people, he still wasn’t upfront about everything he knew or how they could escape. That made it difficult for me to trust his motives, and I spent most of the book expecting him to betray the group.
Overall, after the hype and the strength of the previous book, this one didn’t quite deliver for me. I’m still invested enough to continue the series because I want to see where the story goes, but this was definitely my least favourite so far.
September 2, 2025
Being a huge fan of the first two books in the series, I was beyond excited to get my hands on an ARC of Warrior of Embers — and wow, what a ride!
This installment takes everything I love about the series and dials it up: the emotional depth, the character development, the high-stakes tension. Lore and Reyla's bond is tested like never before, and you truly feel the intensity of their love, fear, and the sacrifices they’re willing to make for one another. It’s raw, heartfelt, and absolutely gripping.
Just when you think you know where the story is going, Wells throws in twists that left me stunned. And that cliffhanger? I literally had to put the book down and take a breath. It’s that good.
Thank you, Alaya, for letting me be part of your ARC reading team — it’s an honor to witness this story unfold early. I already can't wait for the next one.
This installment takes everything I love about the series and dials it up: the emotional depth, the character development, the high-stakes tension. Lore and Reyla's bond is tested like never before, and you truly feel the intensity of their love, fear, and the sacrifices they’re willing to make for one another. It’s raw, heartfelt, and absolutely gripping.
Just when you think you know where the story is going, Wells throws in twists that left me stunned. And that cliffhanger? I literally had to put the book down and take a breath. It’s that good.
Thank you, Alaya, for letting me be part of your ARC reading team — it’s an honor to witness this story unfold early. I already can't wait for the next one.
September 2, 2025
Warrior of Embers is the third book in the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series which returns readers to the fantasy world of leads Reyla and Lore.
Dark secrets, distorted realities are what they find in the Halendor Court when they are trapped in a living labyrinth that must be traveled through to receive a second talisman at it’s end.
I enjoyed the author’s writing and world building as always which never fails to pull you into the story of these characters and their fierce struggle for a better future for each other and their world.
With another engaging fantasy to settle in with of danger, sorrow, intrigue, action, adventure, suspense, passion, and emotion, a moment of happiness and success after a hard fought journey does not last for long… Cliffhanger ending!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dark secrets, distorted realities are what they find in the Halendor Court when they are trapped in a living labyrinth that must be traveled through to receive a second talisman at it’s end.
I enjoyed the author’s writing and world building as always which never fails to pull you into the story of these characters and their fierce struggle for a better future for each other and their world.
With another engaging fantasy to settle in with of danger, sorrow, intrigue, action, adventure, suspense, passion, and emotion, a moment of happiness and success after a hard fought journey does not last for long… Cliffhanger ending!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2025
I struggled a bit with this book to get through. I do read a couple books at a time I wondered if it was the other one. But really I felt like this just didn’t land much with me and I LOVED the other ones.
Reyla and Lore deeply love eachother. Their relationship is what we all dream about. But it was a lot of telling and not showing. And in a book that sometimes happens. But it was almost too much of “love you” and love is everything. I found myself struggling to want to keep going.
About 70% in we are introduced to a new character and I did enjoy the mystery and figuring out the maze. I felt like this book was a bit of a filler book. That being said I love this series and I’m excited to read book 4. I still love the characters and I do have a lot of questions that need answers! Overall this series is great.
Reyla and Lore deeply love eachother. Their relationship is what we all dream about. But it was a lot of telling and not showing. And in a book that sometimes happens. But it was almost too much of “love you” and love is everything. I found myself struggling to want to keep going.
About 70% in we are introduced to a new character and I did enjoy the mystery and figuring out the maze. I felt like this book was a bit of a filler book. That being said I love this series and I’m excited to read book 4. I still love the characters and I do have a lot of questions that need answers! Overall this series is great.
June 7, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Media for an ALC of this book.
Warrior of Embers is the third installment in the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series. It was probably my least favorite of the three books, but it is still worth the read. I like that each installment picks up right where the previous book leaves off. Lore and Reyla had just traveled to King Tallan’s kingdom to retrieve a talisman. When they arrived, they were thrown into a labyrinth that had to be solve in order to survive. The labyrinth was very hard to get through with all the nonstop challenges that the couple had to get through. It was also difficult as a reader because I felt we really did not get a break from the continuous mind games that were played. The love/chemistry between the two main characters was still good and the narrators did a great job.
Warrior of Embers is the third installment in the Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin series. It was probably my least favorite of the three books, but it is still worth the read. I like that each installment picks up right where the previous book leaves off. Lore and Reyla had just traveled to King Tallan’s kingdom to retrieve a talisman. When they arrived, they were thrown into a labyrinth that had to be solve in order to survive. The labyrinth was very hard to get through with all the nonstop challenges that the couple had to get through. It was also difficult as a reader because I felt we really did not get a break from the continuous mind games that were played. The love/chemistry between the two main characters was still good and the narrators did a great job.
August 27, 2025
From the moment I read the final words of Lady of Embers, Book 2 of Alaya's Kingdom of Shadow and Ruin, I knew the next installment would be different and bring a new set of challenges. And, wow, was I right!
This entire book unfolds within a sentient labyrinth. At first, one might think that a single backdrop could potentially make a book feel static, but trust me, it is anything but. This part of the journey is filled with mind games, illusions, and self-reflection. It almost gives you a feel of a hall of mirrors, each reflection revealing your deepest, darkest thoughts and your most secret desires, pulling you in.
Reyla and Merrick are forced to confront every doubt, fear, and thought they had locked away. They are faced with their failures (real and self-imposed), along with glimpses of pasts and futures that never were, and never could be. So, what will they choose? The tempting illusions or the reality, as grim as it is?
Even when thrust into the darkest corners of their minds, Reyla and Merrick fight tooth and nail, not just for themselves, but for each other. Because, in the end, what prevails is love in all its forms. The strongest and purest force of them all.
Still, could even love conquer the wickedest of foes? That cliffhanger left my heart in pieces, but I hold onto hope that love will triumph in the end. So, please, Alaya, soothe my aching heart with the epic finale I know you will deliver.
And thank you for having me on your ARC team, for what now feels like forever. Your stories and ideas never cease to amaze me, and I'm honored to follow your author journey.
This entire book unfolds within a sentient labyrinth. At first, one might think that a single backdrop could potentially make a book feel static, but trust me, it is anything but. This part of the journey is filled with mind games, illusions, and self-reflection. It almost gives you a feel of a hall of mirrors, each reflection revealing your deepest, darkest thoughts and your most secret desires, pulling you in.
Reyla and Merrick are forced to confront every doubt, fear, and thought they had locked away. They are faced with their failures (real and self-imposed), along with glimpses of pasts and futures that never were, and never could be. So, what will they choose? The tempting illusions or the reality, as grim as it is?
Even when thrust into the darkest corners of their minds, Reyla and Merrick fight tooth and nail, not just for themselves, but for each other. Because, in the end, what prevails is love in all its forms. The strongest and purest force of them all.
Still, could even love conquer the wickedest of foes? That cliffhanger left my heart in pieces, but I hold onto hope that love will triumph in the end. So, please, Alaya, soothe my aching heart with the epic finale I know you will deliver.
And thank you for having me on your ARC team, for what now feels like forever. Your stories and ideas never cease to amaze me, and I'm honored to follow your author journey.
September 1, 2025
This curse is a giant series of unfortunate events. Reyla and Lore have tried so hard to make progress and I feel like every time they think they are getting to the goal-something impedes the progress. This story takes place in a dark, dank labyrinth that essentially is trying to suck the life out of them. There are lots of "tests" thrown at them and they are physical and emotional. It is quite the adventure with unexpected twists and turns. Is it the labyrinth or Prager or Tallin? I am equally intrigued about the new character that was introduced and how they play into breaking Lore's curse. Well that is if Reyla and Lore make it out of the labyrinth alive! Highly recommended but beware of the giant cliffhanger!!
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