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Abandoned by Fate
Not yet published
Expected 16 Jun 26Kalina "Kit" Arden is on the cusp of her twenty-sixth birthday and her third soul-bound Book, the one that will reveal her life's Purpose, has yet to appear. In Tierannova, sentient Books provide magic and act as a guide, determining the path each person is destined to follow, but Kit's powers remain dormant, and she fears they may never awaken. Intent to uncover the truth, she embarks on a perilous journey across the continent with her closest companions: a shifter, a healer, and Vandor, the infuriatingly charming man intent on winning her heart. Their quest leads to the great libraries of the realm, where ancient knowledge may hold the key to her awakening, but rogue shifter packs prowl the forests, thieves stalk the trade routes, and whispers of what they seek stir trouble in unexpected places. As darkness closes in, Kit must claim her awakening and embrace a destiny entwined not only with Tierannova... but with the long-lost magic of the neighboring Fae realm.
358 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication June 16, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book from start to finish. From the characters to the world-building, everything is incredibly well thought out and detailed. I quickly identified with Kit and even found myself shedding a few tears. As someone who prides herself on always figuring out the ending in advance, this one caught me completely off guard. I never saw it coming, and I will definitely be buying book 2 to find out what happens next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
*ARC received from author in exchange for my honest review*
Firstly, a big thank you to Ashley for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this :)
Secondly, I've just finished reading this and I'm not sure that I can string a comprehensive sentence together, so please bear with me....
Just a few points here about the characters:
- Kit is a total badass - completely refreshing to have a FMC who is funny, pretty and clever, without me wanting to punch her in the face. She is relatable and something intrinsically warm about her. I felt invested in her journey even from a few pages in.
- Vandor - Hello you hunky piece of meat! An MMC who is gorgeous, worships the ground Kit walks on, with a great sense of humour and who winks a lot? I'm sold!
- Eva and Luc - Brilliantly witty and loyal side characters, who had main character sass. I can really see them coming into their own in subsequent book(s).
The world building and magic system was fabulous, it felt unique without being pretentious (and I only felt marginally silly trying to pronounce people/place names in my head)
As someone who has read a fair few romantasy books, I thought I might have the plot figured out, but it kept me on my toes until the very end and left me gobsmacked.
The humour was infectious, more than once my husband was like 'what are you laughing at?!' when I was just sat reading this!
I'm definitely ordering a physical copy of this so I can have a trophy for my bookcase of smut.
This was such an easy 5 star read. If I could give it more than that, I absolutely would. This book really was superb and I can't wait to get my hands on the 2nd book :)
Firstly, a big thank you to Ashley for giving me the opportunity to ARC read this :)
Secondly, I've just finished reading this and I'm not sure that I can string a comprehensive sentence together, so please bear with me....
Just a few points here about the characters:
- Kit is a total badass - completely refreshing to have a FMC who is funny, pretty and clever, without me wanting to punch her in the face. She is relatable and something intrinsically warm about her. I felt invested in her journey even from a few pages in.
- Vandor - Hello you hunky piece of meat! An MMC who is gorgeous, worships the ground Kit walks on, with a great sense of humour and who winks a lot? I'm sold!
- Eva and Luc - Brilliantly witty and loyal side characters, who had main character sass. I can really see them coming into their own in subsequent book(s).
The world building and magic system was fabulous, it felt unique without being pretentious (and I only felt marginally silly trying to pronounce people/place names in my head)
As someone who has read a fair few romantasy books, I thought I might have the plot figured out, but it kept me on my toes until the very end and left me gobsmacked.
The humour was infectious, more than once my husband was like 'what are you laughing at?!' when I was just sat reading this!
I'm definitely ordering a physical copy of this so I can have a trophy for my bookcase of smut.
This was such an easy 5 star read. If I could give it more than that, I absolutely would. This book really was superb and I can't wait to get my hands on the 2nd book :)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Overall rating of 4.5⭐️
I have no words, truly. What a wild ride this story was! I love when the setting is olden times but with modern language. They shouldn’t work, but it just does.
The friendship group in this was just so lovely, and it truly made the story very enjoyable. While I’ve never had a relationship like Kit and Lucas, I did find it very intriguing. The fact that neither was jealous of other partner they may be getting jiggy with was kinda, almost unbelievable to me. I was waiting for Lucas to show anger towards Vandor once it was apparent that Kit and him were interested in each other. But then Lucas was very flirtatious with everyone really 😂
The story line was also very interesting. The magic system was so unique, I have never read anything like it before. I was somewhat surprised that the travels in search of Kit’s third book didn’t happen sooner in the story but I do think the amount of detail for the journey was sufficient.
I have to say I cried when I realised I finished the book. I thought I still had a chapter left and was expecting some further answers to questions and the sudden realisation that was it, yeah I cried. Ashley, I just want it known, said with love, but that ending was rude. I need the next book ASAP to know what happens next.
Overall this was a very good story and I will definitely be back for the next instalment!
Overall rating of 4.5⭐️
I have no words, truly. What a wild ride this story was! I love when the setting is olden times but with modern language. They shouldn’t work, but it just does.
The friendship group in this was just so lovely, and it truly made the story very enjoyable. While I’ve never had a relationship like Kit and Lucas, I did find it very intriguing. The fact that neither was jealous of other partner they may be getting jiggy with was kinda, almost unbelievable to me. I was waiting for Lucas to show anger towards Vandor once it was apparent that Kit and him were interested in each other. But then Lucas was very flirtatious with everyone really 😂
The story line was also very interesting. The magic system was so unique, I have never read anything like it before. I was somewhat surprised that the travels in search of Kit’s third book didn’t happen sooner in the story but I do think the amount of detail for the journey was sufficient.
I have to say I cried when I realised I finished the book. I thought I still had a chapter left and was expecting some further answers to questions and the sudden realisation that was it, yeah I cried. Ashley, I just want it known, said with love, but that ending was rude. I need the next book ASAP to know what happens next.
Overall this was a very good story and I will definitely be back for the next instalment!
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I would like to extend a big “thank you!” to the author for providing me with an advanced copy of this novel. It’s very special to get an early copy!
I was immediately hooked by this debut and its unique magic premise. Having read my fair share of fantasy/romantasy/etc. novels, I can safely say that Abandoned by Fate’s Book system is wonderfully distinct. In this world, individuals are bound to sentient Books that provide them with magic, and in our FMC’s Kalina’s case, lots of sass! I throughly enjoyed learning about Purposes and watching the mystery of Kalina’s missing Third Book unfold.
Additionally, I found Kalina, Vandor, and crew refreshing and entertaining, so fans of the found family trope will eat this up! Their interactions are full of genuinely funny banter, as well as touching moments.
What’s preventing me from rating this book higher (despite my genuine enjoyment of it), was the pacing. There was so much rich, incredible detail packed into certain plot points, where others were a bit choppy with “scene changes.” I think that a little less time could’ve been dedicated to building up the crew’s adventure and that would’ve improved overall flow.
Overall, I think the author created an impressive and enjoyable first book, and I look forward to reading more in this series! Please pick this up if you’re looking for something totally different from any other fantasy book you’ve read!
I was immediately hooked by this debut and its unique magic premise. Having read my fair share of fantasy/romantasy/etc. novels, I can safely say that Abandoned by Fate’s Book system is wonderfully distinct. In this world, individuals are bound to sentient Books that provide them with magic, and in our FMC’s Kalina’s case, lots of sass! I throughly enjoyed learning about Purposes and watching the mystery of Kalina’s missing Third Book unfold.
Additionally, I found Kalina, Vandor, and crew refreshing and entertaining, so fans of the found family trope will eat this up! Their interactions are full of genuinely funny banter, as well as touching moments.
What’s preventing me from rating this book higher (despite my genuine enjoyment of it), was the pacing. There was so much rich, incredible detail packed into certain plot points, where others were a bit choppy with “scene changes.” I think that a little less time could’ve been dedicated to building up the crew’s adventure and that would’ve improved overall flow.
Overall, I think the author created an impressive and enjoyable first book, and I look forward to reading more in this series! Please pick this up if you’re looking for something totally different from any other fantasy book you’ve read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was an absolute 5⭐️ read for me. I was sucked in from the first chapter and every chapter felt purposeful, with a good momentum that never fell flat.
The world-building was rich, immersive, and detailed without becoming too much. The character development was top tier! I always appreciate when an author puts time into the side characters and makes them just as loveable as the main. There were a few times they even stole the scene for me!
The humor was my absolute favorite part! It was perfectly timed and the banter really hit it home for the character development and relationship dynamic. it added so much personality to the story!
The foreshadowing was also done brilliantly. All the clues were there, but nothing gave away the twist too early. When everything finally came together, I was left wishing that I had book 2 in hand!
Overall, this book delivered on every level and I'm really looking forward to seeing where this story goes! If you’re looking for something with a unique plot that's light, funny and overall engaging, read this!
The world-building was rich, immersive, and detailed without becoming too much. The character development was top tier! I always appreciate when an author puts time into the side characters and makes them just as loveable as the main. There were a few times they even stole the scene for me!
The humor was my absolute favorite part! It was perfectly timed and the banter really hit it home for the character development and relationship dynamic. it added so much personality to the story!
The foreshadowing was also done brilliantly. All the clues were there, but nothing gave away the twist too early. When everything finally came together, I was left wishing that I had book 2 in hand!
Overall, this book delivered on every level and I'm really looking forward to seeing where this story goes! If you’re looking for something with a unique plot that's light, funny and overall engaging, read this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I will give it a four because the writing skill, you can generally tell right off the bat, and i would say this book is well written.
I also don't want to damage an author's scoring simply because I ✨️personally✨️ don't want to read about certain things in particular.
It is very smutty 🌶(open door etc.) and very magic forward right off the bat. And honestly that's the only reason it's joining my did not finish shelf.
I did get through the magic/fantasy system and that did seem super interesting!! The book also starts of super fast paced (but not rushed), which I do love in a book.
If you're someone who wants to filter what you read, I hope this review helps. But if you like fantasy and love reading everything, this could be a book for you!
From what I gather, there's a huge cliffhanger and a lot of the people that have read this book are infatuated! Lol.
So, although this book isn't for me, I am so appreciative of being given an arc!!
I also don't want to damage an author's scoring simply because I ✨️personally✨️ don't want to read about certain things in particular.
It is very smutty 🌶(open door etc.) and very magic forward right off the bat. And honestly that's the only reason it's joining my did not finish shelf.
I did get through the magic/fantasy system and that did seem super interesting!! The book also starts of super fast paced (but not rushed), which I do love in a book.
If you're someone who wants to filter what you read, I hope this review helps. But if you like fantasy and love reading everything, this could be a book for you!
From what I gather, there's a huge cliffhanger and a lot of the people that have read this book are infatuated! Lol.
So, although this book isn't for me, I am so appreciative of being given an arc!!
April 10, 2026
ARC review
The way the story was structured was beautiful. The worldbuilding was amazing, and the concept of how magic works in this world is incredibly cool—such a great magic system. I really liked the FMC and her found family dynamic is wonderful. It was a joy to follow them on their journey. The love interest was good the spice was not too overdone after a decent slow burn.
Some parts of the book felt a bit forced at times, which made those moments slightly less enjoyable. Overall, though, the book was a very pleasant read. It flowed easily and had many beautiful moments, with lovely attention to detail.
The ending left me a bit shocked—I definitely didn’t see it coming. I’m very excited for the second book and can wholeheartedly recommend this one.
The way the story was structured was beautiful. The worldbuilding was amazing, and the concept of how magic works in this world is incredibly cool—such a great magic system. I really liked the FMC and her found family dynamic is wonderful. It was a joy to follow them on their journey. The love interest was good the spice was not too overdone after a decent slow burn.
Some parts of the book felt a bit forced at times, which made those moments slightly less enjoyable. Overall, though, the book was a very pleasant read. It flowed easily and had many beautiful moments, with lovely attention to detail.
The ending left me a bit shocked—I definitely didn’t see it coming. I’m very excited for the second book and can wholeheartedly recommend this one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy Review
Ashley M Woolsey has created a beautiful story, written like you would talk and write in real life. This made it a great light hearted read.
Following the greatest trio of friends in Kit, Luc and Eva, the journey and “quest” gave me lord of the ring vibes, with just enough yearning and spice to satisfy any romantasy lovers.
I loved the idea and story of sentient books, and found this concept really unique and interesting to read.
“We would either burn the world down together, or he would rip my heart out and throw it into the flames as I watched them consume me”
4.5⭐️
2 - 3 🌶️ (depending on your spice level)
I will defintely be reading book two, and watching the growth of the author.
Ashley M Woolsey has created a beautiful story, written like you would talk and write in real life. This made it a great light hearted read.
Following the greatest trio of friends in Kit, Luc and Eva, the journey and “quest” gave me lord of the ring vibes, with just enough yearning and spice to satisfy any romantasy lovers.
I loved the idea and story of sentient books, and found this concept really unique and interesting to read.
“We would either burn the world down together, or he would rip my heart out and throw it into the flames as I watched them consume me”
4.5⭐️
2 - 3 🌶️ (depending on your spice level)
I will defintely be reading book two, and watching the growth of the author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off I want to give a huge thank you to the author Ashley Woolsey for letting me arc read this book. I am leaving this review on my own free will and 100% honestly.
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all the characters and the dynamic between the 3 friends. I really felt for the fmc and boy oh boy did the ending throw me for a loop and leave me with so many questions and desire for the next book. There was lots of action, lots of steamy romance and great world building.
can't wait to see where this series goes
I really enjoyed this book. I loved all the characters and the dynamic between the 3 friends. I really felt for the fmc and boy oh boy did the ending throw me for a loop and leave me with so many questions and desire for the next book. There was lots of action, lots of steamy romance and great world building.
can't wait to see where this series goes
April 17, 2026
I was very fortunate to receive an ARC of Abandoned by Fate and absolutely devoured it. My jaw was on the floor on the first page and I was hooked immediately. The character development is phenomenal and the pace of the book is just right. The plot wasn’t predictable and the twists and turns were so good. I finished this book months ago and haven’t stopped thinking about it. An absolutely spectacular debut novel.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC review
It had been a long time since I have sat down and been able to focus enough to read a book. This book kept my focus from the first page and never let go. The characters are well thought out and developed and the dialogue is engaging, funny, emotional, and exciting.
The world development is well thought out with great details. I felt like I was there. The storyline really kept my interest and looking forward to each turn of the page.
I cannot wait for the next book!
It had been a long time since I have sat down and been able to focus enough to read a book. This book kept my focus from the first page and never let go. The characters are well thought out and developed and the dialogue is engaging, funny, emotional, and exciting.
The world development is well thought out with great details. I felt like I was there. The storyline really kept my interest and looking forward to each turn of the page.
I cannot wait for the next book!
April 22, 2026
First, what an honor to receive an advance copy and thank you so much. Second, these are my own thoughts and opinions based of me personally reading this book.
THAT ENDING!!!!! Let me repeat.
👏🏻THAT FUCKING ENDING. 👏🏻
What an amazing journey we went on. The world was amazing and hello, I wish I had a book that talked back to me. The MFC was such a bad ass and the MMC…. 🥵🫠…. I cannot (but must) wait for the next book and I’m beyond excited for what’s to come.
THAT ENDING!!!!! Let me repeat.
👏🏻THAT FUCKING ENDING. 👏🏻
What an amazing journey we went on. The world was amazing and hello, I wish I had a book that talked back to me. The MFC was such a bad ass and the MMC…. 🥵🫠…. I cannot (but must) wait for the next book and I’m beyond excited for what’s to come.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is exceptional, I loved every page of it! The world building is so beautiful it makes you want to move to the world of Tierannova immediately and never leave! We have a fierce,smart strong and funny FMC, the most loyal and best friends anyone could ask for, the deep love that you feel when you've found your soulmates in your friends and of course a mysterious man who will take your breath away every time he enter the page. This book will make you laugh, cry, yearn, kick your feet and most importantly, the characters will feel like your friends and you want to go on adventure after adventure with them. It's an impressive debut and I cannot wait to see how it continues
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this book, I got very invested in the dynamics of the characters and pretty pissed off at some at times. Kalina would be way cooler about some things than I would! But that only speaks to my emotional investment in their well being. I felt like I was in the magical world and can’t wait for the next book!!
May 10, 2026
Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️Okay I loved the use of magical books because it’s not super common, and it reminded me of Tom Riddles Diary!! But a nice one lol. I did find some parts could have been maybe more in depth while others didn’t need quite as much details maybe?? Either way, Cliff Hanger ending because wth V or should I say E 🫣 I’m hooked in.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed reading this first book of the series! I love learning about the world. I love how everything is set up. I can't wait to read what happens next in the series! Thank you for letting me arc read!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 stars, 10/10
Things I like about this book:
- the title and meaning behind it
-the character and personalities in it
-storyline and flow
- no boring parts
- humorous touches in it
-the vibe
- the sexyness
-the cliffhanger for book 2!! I love a good cliffhanger
-Lucas ❤️
Things I like about this book:
- the title and meaning behind it
-the character and personalities in it
-storyline and flow
- no boring parts
- humorous touches in it
-the vibe
- the sexyness
-the cliffhanger for book 2!! I love a good cliffhanger
-Lucas ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Completely unique magic system! Love and invested in all the relationships. Can’t wait to see where the series goes!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fantastic read. Everything is beautiful written and described. Super excited to read the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Well written fantasy novel. The magic system was unique. I enjoyed reading this story and look forward to book 2.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews