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Bones #2
Fangs: A Novel
“Run, lil rabbit, 'fore Wolf tears you apart."
Twelve years ago, Ember Cutler obeyed her father and ran, but the girl who disappeared into the desert was not the same girl who came out. When her oldest brother appears in her clinic at the Vault and abducts her at gunpoint, he expects to find his little sister, Ember but instead finds a grief-stricken, broken Bones.
Taken by Wolf and his crew of deadly bounty hunters, Bones struggles to prove her innocence and stay present. As a web of lies is revealed, Wolf struggles to reconcile the fiery little girl he remembers, the manipulative killer he hunted, and the hollow-eyed woman he captured.
With her past and present identities colliding, Bones tries to untangle who she is apart from her trauma with help from Mac and her crew. But the gods have taken notice of her-and her potential-and the line between ally and enemy begins to blur.
When her magic begins to change in a way that threatens to alter the entire world, Bones is forced to decide who she wants to be. What if she's been searching for atonement in all the wrong places, and the answer lies with who holds the scales?
Twelve years ago, Ember Cutler obeyed her father and ran, but the girl who disappeared into the desert was not the same girl who came out. When her oldest brother appears in her clinic at the Vault and abducts her at gunpoint, he expects to find his little sister, Ember but instead finds a grief-stricken, broken Bones.
Taken by Wolf and his crew of deadly bounty hunters, Bones struggles to prove her innocence and stay present. As a web of lies is revealed, Wolf struggles to reconcile the fiery little girl he remembers, the manipulative killer he hunted, and the hollow-eyed woman he captured.
With her past and present identities colliding, Bones tries to untangle who she is apart from her trauma with help from Mac and her crew. But the gods have taken notice of her-and her potential-and the line between ally and enemy begins to blur.
When her magic begins to change in a way that threatens to alter the entire world, Bones is forced to decide who she wants to be. What if she's been searching for atonement in all the wrong places, and the answer lies with who holds the scales?
666 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 12, 2024
About the author
K.L. Speer
2 books739 followersK.L. Speer, or Kelsey, is a writer and artist living in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with her husband, two children, and numerous animals. She grew up on a quiet hobby farm in remote northwestern Montana, tending goats and chickens, exploring the woods with a vivid imagination, and devouring every book within reach.
Kelsey started writing her first novel at twelve, but tragically, the pink floppy disc holding it was lost. Over the years, she wrote countless stories—sometimes for fun, sometimes as a refuge during mental health struggles. As an adult diagnosed with ADHD, she finally completed a project and embraced self-publishing with the story Bones. Drawing on her art and design background, she created the art, covers, and layout for the indie editions of The Bones Series. Her mental health journey deeply influences her portrayal of raw, emotional characters and the transformative strength of found family.
Kelsey started writing her first novel at twelve, but tragically, the pink floppy disc holding it was lost. Over the years, she wrote countless stories—sometimes for fun, sometimes as a refuge during mental health struggles. As an adult diagnosed with ADHD, she finally completed a project and embraced self-publishing with the story Bones. Drawing on her art and design background, she created the art, covers, and layout for the indie editions of The Bones Series. Her mental health journey deeply influences her portrayal of raw, emotional characters and the transformative strength of found family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 633 reviews
November 19, 2024
I feel bad for this mediocre rating, especially given how much I LOVED the first book. But alas, this was not the sequel I was looking forward to.
The first 65% did absolutely nothing to advance the plot. In the first book, Bones, our girl Ember slowly earned the trust and love of her new found family, found a little love along the way, and of course dealt with some pretty horrific abuse. Now, copy & paste that formula into this book, Fangs - just replace angry Mac, the Vault crew, and Trey the love interest from book 1, with angry Wolf, the Fangs crew, and Lee the love interest here. My pattern recognition was giving me an eye twitch.
The majority of this book dragged; it was dominated by Ember’s tears, nausea, anxiety, and fainting spells / sleep. The pacing really picks up after 65%, with Ember once again suffering abuse that’ll increase your blood pressure. She somehow manages to find her backbone, which is a relief. But we still have no real understanding of the magic system here, we’re set up for the possibility of a weird love triangle, the politics are super unclear, and I kinda don’t know what I’m reading anymore. Is this about to become romantasy? All I can tell you is that I’m firmly team Mac, curious about the Mental Menace, and Lee, with the personality of an unflavored saltine cracker, can go kick rocks.
The first 65% did absolutely nothing to advance the plot. In the first book, Bones, our girl Ember slowly earned the trust and love of her new found family, found a little love along the way, and of course dealt with some pretty horrific abuse. Now, copy & paste that formula into this book, Fangs - just replace angry Mac, the Vault crew, and Trey the love interest from book 1, with angry Wolf, the Fangs crew, and Lee the love interest here. My pattern recognition was giving me an eye twitch.
The majority of this book dragged; it was dominated by Ember’s tears, nausea, anxiety, and fainting spells / sleep. The pacing really picks up after 65%, with Ember once again suffering abuse that’ll increase your blood pressure. She somehow manages to find her backbone, which is a relief. But we still have no real understanding of the magic system here, we’re set up for the possibility of a weird love triangle, the politics are super unclear, and I kinda don’t know what I’m reading anymore. Is this about to become romantasy? All I can tell you is that I’m firmly team Mac, curious about the Mental Menace, and Lee, with the personality of an unflavored saltine cracker, can go kick rocks.
June 28, 2026
“I would let the whole world burn down rather than abandon you. I would never make you beg to follow me into death. I would never promise to love you and then leave you.”
Going into Fangs, I honestly thought this was a duology, so I fully expected the story to conclude! I had all these theories, but then… nothing was really revealed by the end. I closed the book feeling completely unsettled. Naturally, I did my investigator work afterward and discovered that another book is coming out! I still don’t even know how many books are planned for this series…
Fangs picks up immediately after Bones and is really centered on Em’s healing journey after the loss of Trey, the loss of Dune, and the immense guilt she carries for killing those who hurt her. She also struggles with the guilt of not being able to save everyone when she had no power to do so. Watching her slowly regain the strength to trust again and rebuild her relationship with Wolf was everything.
And can we talk about the love triangle that’s clearly brewing? I’ve been Team Mac since before there was even a “thing” to root for! But fair warning: Fangs is not romance-heavy. This is very much a story about grief, healing, and finding your way back to yourself.
I’m hoping we finally get some answers in the next book because I have SO many questions. My only complaint? I really wish I had known going into Fangs that there would be another installment. Now my indie collection isn’t going to match… DARN IT! 😭 Why do authors do this to us?!
Going into Fangs, I honestly thought this was a duology, so I fully expected the story to conclude! I had all these theories, but then… nothing was really revealed by the end. I closed the book feeling completely unsettled. Naturally, I did my investigator work afterward and discovered that another book is coming out! I still don’t even know how many books are planned for this series…
Fangs picks up immediately after Bones and is really centered on Em’s healing journey after the loss of Trey, the loss of Dune, and the immense guilt she carries for killing those who hurt her. She also struggles with the guilt of not being able to save everyone when she had no power to do so. Watching her slowly regain the strength to trust again and rebuild her relationship with Wolf was everything.
And can we talk about the love triangle that’s clearly brewing? I’ve been Team Mac since before there was even a “thing” to root for! But fair warning: Fangs is not romance-heavy. This is very much a story about grief, healing, and finding your way back to yourself.
I’m hoping we finally get some answers in the next book because I have SO many questions. My only complaint? I really wish I had known going into Fangs that there would be another installment. Now my indie collection isn’t going to match… DARN IT! 😭 Why do authors do this to us?!
September 9, 2025
that last chapter healed me. I’ll add more later but this is my new personality and get ready to not hear me shut up. these are my comfort characters now.
Does the sadness ever stop? Asking for myself.
If Bones gutted me, Fangs came back with a knife, twisted it, and still somehow left me grateful for the wound. I found myself crying at 5am in the middle of an airport because of that letter (if you know, you know), and it’s rare for a book to pull that level of raw emotion out of me.
At the end of Bones, I was angry—viscerally so. I didn’t want it to end the way it did, and part of me felt it didn’t need to. But now? After finishing Fangs, I understand. The way the author handled the fallout, the grief, and the pacing made it all feel painfully, devastatingly real.
And grief is at the very heart of this book. As someone walking through my own grief right now, so many moments in Fangs hit me like a mirror - raw, relentless, and true. There’s no sugarcoating here, but there is beauty in how those moments are woven into Bones’ story.
The tension between past and present identities, the web of lies unraveling, and the gods themselves stepping onto the stage… this book is the definition of THE PLOT THICKENS. I lost count of how many times I whispered that phrase to myself as the layers kept building and the stakes kept rising.
I won’t spoil characters, but I’ll say this: I was furious with [redacted], to the point of screaming into my group chat about him. And yet the final chapter gave me a breath of healing I didn’t know I needed. It left me both wrecked and hopeful - and desperate for book three immediately, if not sooner.
Fangs continues the journey of survival, found family, and heartache that Bones began, but it also asks harder questions about identity, power, and atonement. Bones isn’t just surviving anymore... she’s being forced to decide who she really wants to be. And I can’t wait (even though I’m terrified) to see where this story goes next.
Does the sadness ever stop? Asking for myself.
If Bones gutted me, Fangs came back with a knife, twisted it, and still somehow left me grateful for the wound. I found myself crying at 5am in the middle of an airport because of that letter (if you know, you know), and it’s rare for a book to pull that level of raw emotion out of me.
At the end of Bones, I was angry—viscerally so. I didn’t want it to end the way it did, and part of me felt it didn’t need to. But now? After finishing Fangs, I understand. The way the author handled the fallout, the grief, and the pacing made it all feel painfully, devastatingly real.
And grief is at the very heart of this book. As someone walking through my own grief right now, so many moments in Fangs hit me like a mirror - raw, relentless, and true. There’s no sugarcoating here, but there is beauty in how those moments are woven into Bones’ story.
The tension between past and present identities, the web of lies unraveling, and the gods themselves stepping onto the stage… this book is the definition of THE PLOT THICKENS. I lost count of how many times I whispered that phrase to myself as the layers kept building and the stakes kept rising.
I won’t spoil characters, but I’ll say this: I was furious with [redacted], to the point of screaming into my group chat about him. And yet the final chapter gave me a breath of healing I didn’t know I needed. It left me both wrecked and hopeful - and desperate for book three immediately, if not sooner.
Fangs continues the journey of survival, found family, and heartache that Bones began, but it also asks harder questions about identity, power, and atonement. Bones isn’t just surviving anymore... she’s being forced to decide who she really wants to be. And I can’t wait (even though I’m terrified) to see where this story goes next.
September 14, 2025
This book has me fucking emotional. I’d give it 6 stars if I could but I’ll tap out at 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — I couldn’t stop reading, I couldn’t stop feeling, & I couldn’t stop caring. & now that I’m done I can’t stop theorizing & need book 3 stat.
PLOT
This book picks up right after the events of Bones. You’ve got the entire Vault dealing with the grief & trauma of the losses that came from the uprising, but now we also have the threat of Wolf, Bones’s brother, finally coming to find her. This book has
- Trauma, PTSD, & grief galore, plz check triggers
- The best found family
- then actual family drama
- Same post-apocalyptic setting but we see more of it
- Gods & religious groups
- emerging magic
- a potential love triangle??? maybe???
- lower spice
PROS
- I cried 3x. I RARELY cry in books so for this to get that out of me not one, not twice, but 3x? Hot damn.
- The exploration of grief in this is truly exquisite. I’ve had a lot in my life & this is one of the best fiction works I’ve read expressing the truth of it. It’s raw, it’s honest, it fucking hurts, & it’s fucking beautiful.
- Bones is probably one of my favorite FMCs ever because of how well she’s written. She’s deeply traumatized & flawed & is sometimes doing the exact wrong thing. But she is explained so well, her PTSD & grief are delivered so perfectly, you understand her every choice. She is drowning but breaking the surface isn’t solace to her & that is such a true display of grieving. Bones was impossible for me to be mad at. I just got her. I saw her.
- I am still so sad about the thing at the end of book 1 & then that thing was weaved so well into this story & I just hurt all the time. Which sounds like a con but it’s a pro I love feeling feels.
- The world EXPANDS. The only reasons Bones wasn’t 5 stars for me is because to felt like there was next to no world building & there was little plot most of the book. This book gets us more of the world, the conflict between the gangs, the Voiceless, & introduces some real plot into the midst. & it’s all super interesting.
- I don’t even want to talk about the romance but know that I love a flirty little bitch so I’m happy even though I have THOUGHTS (in spoilers).
- This plot has me theorizing. I love that I’m not sure what’s going on. I have my ideas but idk that they’re right! & I love that because so often I predict like 90% of stuff.
- This has one of THE BEST found families I’ve ever read for real. Bones’s relationship with her crew plus as her brother loops into the fold, him & his crew? There’s so much love & care there.
MIDS
- I doooooo wish we had gotten more little breadcrumbs of The Voiceless in book 1 to help set up book 2. Because I absolutely love this plot. I DO understand that I think the author was giving us what Bones knew, & she didn’t know shit about shit before getting to The Vault & that makes sense. So it’s not a complaint or a con. But I feel like I wish we had gotten a little more in book 1 of that so book 2 didn’t feel like “oh how didn’t you know about this?”
CONS
- None for me personally.
Cannot wait for book 3 I need it desperately.
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
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No for real
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- I am predicting L is somehow related to/is the god of death
- That last chapter. 😭 Poor Mac.
- T’s letter absolutely sent me into Sob Town. “Look for me in the dandelions, the apple tree, & the newborn kittens” — are you fucking for real? 😭😭 Absolutely wrecked me.
- The love triangle starting in this delicious. Both potential options (as of rn) are great for her in different ways. I want one more than the other, because while I love M I cannot separate T from M&E just yet. Whereas L… I love what he’s been able to do for her in her grief. But I also think he might be adjacent to the god of death or was given the power blocking power a la Juck & might be bad? Or bad-ish? I think Mac is endgame, but I do love Lee. & this love triangle situation js delicious. I’ll like Mac & Bones together more once they actually talk about the elephant in the room of Trey re: romance.
- I feel like either the Voiceless or Menace said something that had my ears peeking up about resurrection, but I might just be being EXTREMELY HOPEFUL HERE. It’s probably nothing tbh but my feelers were up.
- I wonder if there’s some sort of correlation between the god of death & her not being able to heal Dune, but also now Sam.
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.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
K BYEEEE CAN’T WAIT FOR BOOK 3
PLOT
This book picks up right after the events of Bones. You’ve got the entire Vault dealing with the grief & trauma of the losses that came from the uprising, but now we also have the threat of Wolf, Bones’s brother, finally coming to find her. This book has
- Trauma, PTSD, & grief galore, plz check triggers
- The best found family
- then actual family drama
- Same post-apocalyptic setting but we see more of it
- Gods & religious groups
- emerging magic
- a potential love triangle??? maybe???
- lower spice
PROS
- I cried 3x. I RARELY cry in books so for this to get that out of me not one, not twice, but 3x? Hot damn.
- The exploration of grief in this is truly exquisite. I’ve had a lot in my life & this is one of the best fiction works I’ve read expressing the truth of it. It’s raw, it’s honest, it fucking hurts, & it’s fucking beautiful.
- Bones is probably one of my favorite FMCs ever because of how well she’s written. She’s deeply traumatized & flawed & is sometimes doing the exact wrong thing. But she is explained so well, her PTSD & grief are delivered so perfectly, you understand her every choice. She is drowning but breaking the surface isn’t solace to her & that is such a true display of grieving. Bones was impossible for me to be mad at. I just got her. I saw her.
- I am still so sad about the thing at the end of book 1 & then that thing was weaved so well into this story & I just hurt all the time. Which sounds like a con but it’s a pro I love feeling feels.
- The world EXPANDS. The only reasons Bones wasn’t 5 stars for me is because to felt like there was next to no world building & there was little plot most of the book. This book gets us more of the world, the conflict between the gangs, the Voiceless, & introduces some real plot into the midst. & it’s all super interesting.
- I don’t even want to talk about the romance but know that I love a flirty little bitch so I’m happy even though I have THOUGHTS (in spoilers).
- This plot has me theorizing. I love that I’m not sure what’s going on. I have my ideas but idk that they’re right! & I love that because so often I predict like 90% of stuff.
- This has one of THE BEST found families I’ve ever read for real. Bones’s relationship with her crew plus as her brother loops into the fold, him & his crew? There’s so much love & care there.
MIDS
- I doooooo wish we had gotten more little breadcrumbs of The Voiceless in book 1 to help set up book 2. Because I absolutely love this plot. I DO understand that I think the author was giving us what Bones knew, & she didn’t know shit about shit before getting to The Vault & that makes sense. So it’s not a complaint or a con. But I feel like I wish we had gotten a little more in book 1 of that so book 2 didn’t feel like “oh how didn’t you know about this?”
CONS
- None for me personally.
Cannot wait for book 3 I need it desperately.
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
.
:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
No for real
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
-
- I am predicting L is somehow related to/is the god of death
- That last chapter. 😭 Poor Mac.
- T’s letter absolutely sent me into Sob Town. “Look for me in the dandelions, the apple tree, & the newborn kittens” — are you fucking for real? 😭😭 Absolutely wrecked me.
- The love triangle starting in this delicious. Both potential options (as of rn) are great for her in different ways. I want one more than the other, because while I love M I cannot separate T from M&E just yet. Whereas L… I love what he’s been able to do for her in her grief. But I also think he might be adjacent to the god of death or was given the power blocking power a la Juck & might be bad? Or bad-ish? I think Mac is endgame, but I do love Lee. & this love triangle situation js delicious. I’ll like Mac & Bones together more once they actually talk about the elephant in the room of Trey re: romance.
- I feel like either the Voiceless or Menace said something that had my ears peeking up about resurrection, but I might just be being EXTREMELY HOPEFUL HERE. It’s probably nothing tbh but my feelers were up.
- I wonder if there’s some sort of correlation between the god of death & her not being able to heal Dune, but also now Sam.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
K BYEEEE CAN’T WAIT FOR BOOK 3
January 18, 2026
4.75 stars
December 13, 2024
This book could have been one chapter: Bones is traumatized, her brother is an ass, and everything is sad but now sometimes we glow. Bones reverted to the traumatized husk of a character from the first book while the now expanded cast of hunky but extremely emotionally intelligent male cast all tell her how strong she is. By the end of this book I was more annoyed with her than the previous one. I read this book because at the end of the previous book the plot finally seemed like it might be interesting. I imagine you can skip this one entirely because literally nothing happens that matters. More men falling in love with you is not character growth. Trauma isn't a personality.
A summary of plot:
- our girl is sad
- our girl gets kidnapped
- our girl runs away
- our girl is sad
- several men rush to be the one to comfort our girl
- our girl lies about idiotic things for zero reason given where she is in the story
- our girl is sad
- our girl gets kidnapped
- our girl runs away
- our girl is sad
- our men save the day because we need a badass strong woman who gets herself out of problems and strong men there to tell her she's so strong when she would have literally died without them saving her
- our girl, once again, is sad
I enjoyed the representation of being stuck in your own head regarding trauma from the first book but the gratuitous cruelty the protagonist suffers in this book crossed the line for me from representation of struggle into something that was exploitative and gross.
I only finished because I thought I'd find out the only mildly interesting thing about the plot and NOTHING EVEN HAPPENED.
A summary of plot:
- our girl is sad
- our girl gets kidnapped
- our girl runs away
- our girl is sad
- several men rush to be the one to comfort our girl
- our girl lies about idiotic things for zero reason given where she is in the story
- our girl is sad
- our girl gets kidnapped
- our girl runs away
- our girl is sad
- our men save the day because we need a badass strong woman who gets herself out of problems and strong men there to tell her she's so strong when she would have literally died without them saving her
- our girl, once again, is sad
I enjoyed the representation of being stuck in your own head regarding trauma from the first book but the gratuitous cruelty the protagonist suffers in this book crossed the line for me from representation of struggle into something that was exploitative and gross.
I only finished because I thought I'd find out the only mildly interesting thing about the plot and NOTHING EVEN HAPPENED.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2026
"You don't break. You bend"
Honestly this book had me......again.
Following Ember and how she works through grief and torture and just everything was so heartbreaking.
It is a tough read in some places but you just have to keep going as you want that light at the end. You want her to be happy.
Ashes needs to hurry up and be released!
Honestly this book had me......again.
Following Ember and how she works through grief and torture and just everything was so heartbreaking.
It is a tough read in some places but you just have to keep going as you want that light at the end. You want her to be happy.
Ashes needs to hurry up and be released!
October 1, 2024
4.5 stars
Thank you to the author, Kelsey, for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I literally dropped everything and flew through this. I could not get enough!
First of all, MAC!!! I loved you in the first book and now I’m downright obsessed. Honestly, I could end this review right here and you’d get it. He really stole the show for me and the development of his and Ember’s relationship was so perfect. There’s one huge development in the way they’re connected that I won’t spoil but that I thought was such a cool twist and I can’t wait to see where it goes. They are the ULTIMATE slow burn and if they don’t get together in the next book I will lose my mind. This is still one of the best found family books I’ve ever read and I would die for anyone in Ember’s crew. I love how Trey was still very much a part of this and the memory of him was handled so delicately. I SOBBED. The reason for my slightly lower rating compared to Bones is I felt like some of the plot was a recycled version of the first book. The beginning when Ember is kidnapped, the crew asking about her scars, there’s a seemingly sweet guy who is trying to protect her. The Trey/Zip, Mac/Lee plot similarities. Her having to build trust with the Fangs crew and basically having to explain everything that happened in the first book again to Wolf. It felt like a sequence of events we had seen before. And as much as I love Ember, she can be a little helpless repeating a lot of the same behaviors as the first book. I was really looking forward to her training with Raven. She’s a survivor, yes, but I hope in the next book we see her get not only emotionally but physically stronger. That being said, Kelsey knows how to write flawed characters with big hearts that you absolutely root for every step of the way. I cannot wait to see where this story takes us. I have SO many questions!!
Thank you to the author, Kelsey, for allowing me to be an ARC reader. I literally dropped everything and flew through this. I could not get enough!
First of all, MAC!!! I loved you in the first book and now I’m downright obsessed. Honestly, I could end this review right here and you’d get it. He really stole the show for me and the development of his and Ember’s relationship was so perfect. There’s one huge development in the way they’re connected that I won’t spoil but that I thought was such a cool twist and I can’t wait to see where it goes. They are the ULTIMATE slow burn and if they don’t get together in the next book I will lose my mind. This is still one of the best found family books I’ve ever read and I would die for anyone in Ember’s crew. I love how Trey was still very much a part of this and the memory of him was handled so delicately. I SOBBED. The reason for my slightly lower rating compared to Bones is I felt like some of the plot was a recycled version of the first book. The beginning when Ember is kidnapped, the crew asking about her scars, there’s a seemingly sweet guy who is trying to protect her. The Trey/Zip, Mac/Lee plot similarities. Her having to build trust with the Fangs crew and basically having to explain everything that happened in the first book again to Wolf. It felt like a sequence of events we had seen before. And as much as I love Ember, she can be a little helpless repeating a lot of the same behaviors as the first book. I was really looking forward to her training with Raven. She’s a survivor, yes, but I hope in the next book we see her get not only emotionally but physically stronger. That being said, Kelsey knows how to write flawed characters with big hearts that you absolutely root for every step of the way. I cannot wait to see where this story takes us. I have SO many questions!!
July 23, 2026
4.5-5⭐️
NEW GOD TEIR SERIES UNLOCKED 🔓
Oh my godddddddd these books are ridiculously amazing. This book turned me into a sobbing, blubbering, mess. Impossibly beautiful. The way the author explores themes of grief and torture is so heartbreaking to read about but it is done incredibly well. I also really liked the way religious trauma was depicted in this. It was so real and raw.
BUT THE AUTHOR ALSO NEEDS TO LET THE FMC BE HAPPY ALREADY😭😭😭 Like let her catch her breath damn she's been through enough😭😭😭😭
I wish we got to see more of Mac in this book. I was yearning for him and I’m so sick of Lee already. What kind of name is that. That’s not a name. I don’t like him and he’s very suspish to me.
these books are now (unfortunately) my entire personality. They are everything to me. I can't wait to see where this series is headed, Ashes cannot come soon enough. I'm so excited (and genuinely terrified) to see what happens next....
NEW GOD TEIR SERIES UNLOCKED 🔓
Oh my godddddddd these books are ridiculously amazing. This book turned me into a sobbing, blubbering, mess. Impossibly beautiful. The way the author explores themes of grief and torture is so heartbreaking to read about but it is done incredibly well. I also really liked the way religious trauma was depicted in this. It was so real and raw.
BUT THE AUTHOR ALSO NEEDS TO LET THE FMC BE HAPPY ALREADY😭😭😭 Like let her catch her breath damn she's been through enough😭😭😭😭
I wish we got to see more of Mac in this book. I was yearning for him and I’m so sick of Lee already. What kind of name is that. That’s not a name. I don’t like him and he’s very suspish to me.
these books are now (unfortunately) my entire personality. They are everything to me. I can't wait to see where this series is headed, Ashes cannot come soon enough. I'm so excited (and genuinely terrified) to see what happens next....
Read
October 23, 2025I am empty after reading these two books. Emotionally destroyed. This was so good, I wouldn’t say it was as good as the first, it was a bit repetitive at times it but honestly that didn’t bother me. Still a five star read. I’m obsessed with these characters, this is by far the best found family I’ve ever read in a series.
I am very excited to see where this series goes!
I am very excited to see where this series goes!
August 29, 2025
Damn, poor Bones. Can this chick get a break? How about we let her live happily ever after in the next book? 😆
September 30, 2024
I want to preface by saying this is the first review I’ve ever posted. I don’t know that it will be well written, but the main point I want to get across is that this book is amazing and I recommend this series to every person I come across that will listen to me. It is the type of book you can’t stop thinking about, and it puts you in a reading slump because you get such a reader's high (is that a thing?) from it. That being said, please read the trigger warnings and put your mental health first as this series is set in a post-apocalyptic world with heavy topics/themes.
Thank you so much to Kelsey for the opportunity to be a beta reader and for an ARC of this book which has earned itself a permanent spot on my “books I will re-read repeatedly” list!
Fangs begins right at the cliffhanger Bones ended with; the pace is fast to start and I flew through the first 25% or so of the book. From there, I thought there was a good mix of action and slower plot/character-building moments. Overall I thought the pace was perfect, I devoured the beta reader version and the ARC each in about 1-1.5 days.
This book follows familiar and new characters that are so easy to become deeply invested in (I would jump at the chance to read a spin-off book about pretty much any of them). I love that not only is each character flawed but they also have great character development that occurs at an imperfect/realistic pace. These are characters that I feel like are actual people that I'm reading about and there is a disappointment that I’ll never meet them in real life (cough cough Mac and Sam).
Romance-wise, Fangs is a smidge spicier than Bones; I’d say 2.5-3/5.. There are a few romantic aspects; some with spice and banter while others are more emotion-based. I don’t want to say any spoilers but I will say the ship I am rooting for has me giggling and kicking my feet during literally every interaction (because it’s meant to be) and I am not above begging for a HEA for them!
This book rewards you with some answers to questions we are left with from book 1 but plenty of new questions develop. The clues and foreshadowing provided give you just enough information to speculate and run wild with theories about what’s to come. I love that it makes me feel like I’m trying to figure out what the heck is happening right alongside the FMC. Speaking of, our girl deserves a freaking break!
Tropes (Not all-inclusive):
Magic powers
Found family
Complicated sibling relationship
Religious cult/trauma
Kidnapping
Slowburn?
Prophecies
“You’re a river. You don’t break, you bend.”
Thank you so much to Kelsey for the opportunity to be a beta reader and for an ARC of this book which has earned itself a permanent spot on my “books I will re-read repeatedly” list!
Fangs begins right at the cliffhanger Bones ended with; the pace is fast to start and I flew through the first 25% or so of the book. From there, I thought there was a good mix of action and slower plot/character-building moments. Overall I thought the pace was perfect, I devoured the beta reader version and the ARC each in about 1-1.5 days.
This book follows familiar and new characters that are so easy to become deeply invested in (I would jump at the chance to read a spin-off book about pretty much any of them). I love that not only is each character flawed but they also have great character development that occurs at an imperfect/realistic pace. These are characters that I feel like are actual people that I'm reading about and there is a disappointment that I’ll never meet them in real life (cough cough Mac and Sam).
Romance-wise, Fangs is a smidge spicier than Bones; I’d say 2.5-3/5.. There are a few romantic aspects; some with spice and banter while others are more emotion-based. I don’t want to say any spoilers but I will say the ship I am rooting for has me giggling and kicking my feet during literally every interaction (because it’s meant to be) and I am not above begging for a HEA for them!
This book rewards you with some answers to questions we are left with from book 1 but plenty of new questions develop. The clues and foreshadowing provided give you just enough information to speculate and run wild with theories about what’s to come. I love that it makes me feel like I’m trying to figure out what the heck is happening right alongside the FMC. Speaking of, our girl deserves a freaking break!
Tropes (Not all-inclusive):
Magic powers
Found family
Complicated sibling relationship
Religious cult/trauma
Kidnapping
Slowburn?
Prophecies
“You’re a river. You don’t break, you bend.”
November 10, 2025
“You are not the things that were done to you, Ember.”
Why did that line hit me like a damn train? This entire book was straight emotional damage. Happy one second, horrifically sad and enraging the next. Bones couldn’t catch a break. And even if she does, you can’t help but sit on the edge of your seat knowing the next plummet is about to happen. This was so beautifully written, and what’s more you can see it comes from a place of love and acceptance. The way trauma is depicted, not just depicted… the way that it’s processed is astounding. The back and forth that it takes to accept it in your life, in yourself, in family members rang so authentic it was hard to remember I was reading this and not living it. K.L. Speer is a masterful storyteller. I refused to put this book down and finished it in less than a day. I did not want to stop, even when my heart was breaking.
I’m left with just one question… there’s going to be another book, right? RIGHT?!? K.L. Speer wouldn’t do us dirty like that, would she?
Why did that line hit me like a damn train? This entire book was straight emotional damage. Happy one second, horrifically sad and enraging the next. Bones couldn’t catch a break. And even if she does, you can’t help but sit on the edge of your seat knowing the next plummet is about to happen. This was so beautifully written, and what’s more you can see it comes from a place of love and acceptance. The way trauma is depicted, not just depicted… the way that it’s processed is astounding. The back and forth that it takes to accept it in your life, in yourself, in family members rang so authentic it was hard to remember I was reading this and not living it. K.L. Speer is a masterful storyteller. I refused to put this book down and finished it in less than a day. I did not want to stop, even when my heart was breaking.
I’m left with just one question… there’s going to be another book, right? RIGHT?!? K.L. Speer wouldn’t do us dirty like that, would she?
January 24, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ While I’m glad this book just sort of ended with questions and everyone sort of happy…I need book 3 and now we have a whole year to wait. If a certain someone isn’t end game I might actually riot however.
January 10, 2025
Basically no plot, only crying and apologizing and passing out after more tears. Oh and a couple of spicy scenes that had no reason to exist and really put me off (did we really need another version of the same scene in every romantasy book ever written? If you want your characters to use sex as a coping mechanism, at least do it right). Get ready for another love triangle - or square? Apparently, everyone wants Bones. I liked the first book, maybe this one was published too soon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
Erm what?
What the flip is going on…why is there a love SQUARE?! Why is she so annoying pls?! Why is EVERYONE AND THEIR GRANDMA IN LOVE WITH HER?! Why is this just an exact repeat of Book 1 but practically double the pages? And most importantly WHY IS TREY STILL DEAD?!
What the flip is going on…why is there a love SQUARE?! Why is she so annoying pls?! Why is EVERYONE AND THEIR GRANDMA IN LOVE WITH HER?! Why is this just an exact repeat of Book 1 but practically double the pages? And most importantly WHY IS TREY STILL DEAD?!
Did Not Finish
July 31, 2026The word “Sob” appears in this book 102 times. This was painful. Truly one of the worst FMCs I’ve ever read about. 76% and NOTHING happened. Everyone caters to her needs and she just lets everyone baby her and then goes to cry in the corner.
I’ve read books where the grief was crippling BUT was so well done I felt every ounce of it. This ?!? No! This was a cynical use of a character’ death and her past trauma to lash out at people, stay stagnant and let life happen to her.
No character development, no plot development, poor writing, unsuccessful depiction of grief.
I’ve read books where the grief was crippling BUT was so well done I felt every ounce of it. This ?!? No! This was a cynical use of a character’ death and her past trauma to lash out at people, stay stagnant and let life happen to her.
No character development, no plot development, poor writing, unsuccessful depiction of grief.
September 30, 2024
Do you ever have a book that leaves you speechless? First off, I want to disclaim I received the arc and I have NEVER been more excited for a book release. I have a hard time thinking about this book because it is so much more than a post apocalyptic fantasy book. This book explores the nuances of trauma and mental health. The pain that death and grief can have on someone, and the community you need to arm yourself with to combat the darkness. While the book goes a lot into those items, it still had a plot pulling it through. And the MMC? Swoon worthy! I highly suggest and am now very sullen I have to wait for the next book to come out.
September 30, 2024
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader, and oh my gooooodness. What a journey!! I adored the characters from Bones, and I loved them even more in this one!! I cried multiple times, and usually not for any reason other than sorrow for the FMC and everything she’s endured.
Kelsey does a truly phenomenal job at describing grief and trauma, and it is incredible to see growth in her characters. This is such an amazing book, and I can’t wait for more!! (Except, I can totally wait if it means the next one is as awesome as the first two!!)
Kelsey does a truly phenomenal job at describing grief and trauma, and it is incredible to see growth in her characters. This is such an amazing book, and I can’t wait for more!! (Except, I can totally wait if it means the next one is as awesome as the first two!!)
June 23, 2026
This starts out with a lot of excitement and intrigue after the events of book 1. Between the raw emotion and the intensity of the situation, it immediately sucks you in.
We also start getting a some answers that have left us spiraling. But you have to work for those answers. And even so, you’re still not quite sure what’s believable. Maybe I’m just an overly suspicious and untrusting person haha.
I love the new characters that are introduced and the continued relationships with the old crew. Specifically with a certain person (which I’m not gonna lie, might be the main reason I’m invested in this series 👀 so I stg if something happens to this person…).
But also.. there’s another person.. and another person.. and yeah, I’m very suspicious.
While book 1 was a lot of Bones and her trauma responses, this focuses more on her trauma healing (mostly - still a lot of new trauma though). K.L. Speer really knows how to represent every aspect of its effect on cognitive function. It was so validating and so raw. And while I appreciated the authenticity of this, I do kinda wish it hadn’t taken up so much of the book, because it started to feel repetitive and I was eager to get back to the plot at large. Because.. what do you MEAN [redacted] is [redacted] and must [redacted] with [redacted]??? 👀👀👀
AND THAT BONUS CHAPTER??
Thank you Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
We also start getting a some answers that have left us spiraling. But you have to work for those answers. And even so, you’re still not quite sure what’s believable. Maybe I’m just an overly suspicious and untrusting person haha.
I love the new characters that are introduced and the continued relationships with the old crew. Specifically with a certain person (which I’m not gonna lie, might be the main reason I’m invested in this series 👀 so I stg if something happens to this person…).
But also.. there’s another person.. and another person.. and yeah, I’m very suspicious.
While book 1 was a lot of Bones and her trauma responses, this focuses more on her trauma healing (mostly - still a lot of new trauma though). K.L. Speer really knows how to represent every aspect of its effect on cognitive function. It was so validating and so raw. And while I appreciated the authenticity of this, I do kinda wish it hadn’t taken up so much of the book, because it started to feel repetitive and I was eager to get back to the plot at large. Because.. what do you MEAN [redacted] is [redacted] and must [redacted] with [redacted]??? 👀👀👀
AND THAT BONUS CHAPTER??
Thank you Ballantine and NetGalley for the advanced copy!
March 29, 2026
This book gave me life. I’m not exaggerating. When I wasn’t reading it, I was thinking about it.
First of all, how has this author only written this series?! Explain that to me because her talent is unreal. This book is way longer than the first one, but in a good way. The world feels bigger, deeper, and nothing feels rushed. She knew exactly what she was doing.
What really got me is that around the 75% mark we finally dive headfirst into the fantasy elements. Up until then it’s been very dystopian vibes; gritty, survival, and Ember just trying to make it through the day without having a menty b. So when the fantasy pieces start clicking into place, it shifts the whole vibe in such an interesting way. I did have a couple WTF moments, and I’m really hoping book three clears some of that up. But I actually love that we spent basically a book and 3/4 just building Ember and her world before expanding everything.
Now let’s talk about the found family because you KNOW that’s my favorite trope. We still have her Vault crew, but now we also have Wolf’s crew, the Fangs, and I am begging the universe for these two groups to merge into one loyal, ride or die mega family. Please because I need it 🙏🏼 And the sibling relationship at the center of this story? 🥹 That’s the emotional spine. Watching that bond strengthen tugs my heart.
Character arcs. Trey walked so Mac could fly. I said what I said. Because tell me why I did NOT like Mac in book one and now I’m fully obsessed?! That is elite storytelling. Especially after how physically unwell I was over Trey’s storyline in the first book. I did not think I would recover. But in this book Mac heals us. We get layers from him we never saw before and suddenly I’m like ohhhhh bb we see you.
Do I distrust Lee eh not exactly. But I trust Mac. And if Mac says something is off, I’m listening. Could it be jealousy, sure. But why can’t he hear Lee? That’s weird. Suspicious. Concerning. I also did NOT sign up for a love triangle, okay? I loved the early scenes with her and Lee, I did. But in my heart she belongs with Mac. And I think she knows it too she’s just drowning in guilt and grief over Trey and doesn’t know how to move forward yet.
And can we talk about how this writing is somehow beautiful while being absolutely brutal? Because this book is dark. Heavy. At times straight up horrifying. If you read book one, you already know this series does not play and to check the trigger warnings. But the writing? Gorgeous. Even when Ember is making me want to shake her, her grief and fear feel so real. There were multiple points where I had to put the book down and just stare at the wall because my emotions were doing too much. The author has a way of making everything feel visceral.
I am SO grateful this didn’t end on a cliffhanger because my heart genuinely could not have handled it. But I am feral for books three and four. Feral. I will be first in line for any ARC opportunities because this series deserves way more hype than it’s getting.
I truly cannot believe this author doesn’t have more books out. This is one of the most beautifully dark, emotionally consuming stories I’ve read in a long time and I will absolutely not be shutting up about it anytime soon 🖤
First of all, how has this author only written this series?! Explain that to me because her talent is unreal. This book is way longer than the first one, but in a good way. The world feels bigger, deeper, and nothing feels rushed. She knew exactly what she was doing.
What really got me is that around the 75% mark we finally dive headfirst into the fantasy elements. Up until then it’s been very dystopian vibes; gritty, survival, and Ember just trying to make it through the day without having a menty b. So when the fantasy pieces start clicking into place, it shifts the whole vibe in such an interesting way. I did have a couple WTF moments, and I’m really hoping book three clears some of that up. But I actually love that we spent basically a book and 3/4 just building Ember and her world before expanding everything.
Now let’s talk about the found family because you KNOW that’s my favorite trope. We still have her Vault crew, but now we also have Wolf’s crew, the Fangs, and I am begging the universe for these two groups to merge into one loyal, ride or die mega family. Please because I need it 🙏🏼 And the sibling relationship at the center of this story? 🥹 That’s the emotional spine. Watching that bond strengthen tugs my heart.
Character arcs. Trey walked so Mac could fly. I said what I said. Because tell me why I did NOT like Mac in book one and now I’m fully obsessed?! That is elite storytelling. Especially after how physically unwell I was over Trey’s storyline in the first book. I did not think I would recover. But in this book Mac heals us. We get layers from him we never saw before and suddenly I’m like ohhhhh bb we see you.
Do I distrust Lee eh not exactly. But I trust Mac. And if Mac says something is off, I’m listening. Could it be jealousy, sure. But why can’t he hear Lee? That’s weird. Suspicious. Concerning. I also did NOT sign up for a love triangle, okay? I loved the early scenes with her and Lee, I did. But in my heart she belongs with Mac. And I think she knows it too she’s just drowning in guilt and grief over Trey and doesn’t know how to move forward yet.
And can we talk about how this writing is somehow beautiful while being absolutely brutal? Because this book is dark. Heavy. At times straight up horrifying. If you read book one, you already know this series does not play and to check the trigger warnings. But the writing? Gorgeous. Even when Ember is making me want to shake her, her grief and fear feel so real. There were multiple points where I had to put the book down and just stare at the wall because my emotions were doing too much. The author has a way of making everything feel visceral.
I am SO grateful this didn’t end on a cliffhanger because my heart genuinely could not have handled it. But I am feral for books three and four. Feral. I will be first in line for any ARC opportunities because this series deserves way more hype than it’s getting.
I truly cannot believe this author doesn’t have more books out. This is one of the most beautifully dark, emotionally consuming stories I’ve read in a long time and I will absolutely not be shutting up about it anytime soon 🖤
August 6, 2026
Just like the first book in the series, this one is character driven. Probably even more so than its predecessor because we spend most of the book with Bones trying to overcome her grief. It’s written very realistically and she has several setbacks, but sadly I found it dragged a bit. While I understand that it takes a long time, being sadly easy too familiar with grief, I did not particularly care to read so much about it especially since the actual plot of this series is extremely slow moving.
We haven’t made a lot of progress in that regard, but the progress we did make really expanded the world. It also introduced some super interesting characters and the found family, aka my favorite aspect, has expanded even further and it’s 10/10.
What I did not expect was a love triangle, a super slow moving one and the places it’s heading have me genuinely scratching my head. I feel like book 3 will deeply upset me just like book 1 and I am scared for my mental 😂
We haven’t made a lot of progress in that regard, but the progress we did make really expanded the world. It also introduced some super interesting characters and the found family, aka my favorite aspect, has expanded even further and it’s 10/10.
What I did not expect was a love triangle, a super slow moving one and the places it’s heading have me genuinely scratching my head. I feel like book 3 will deeply upset me just like book 1 and I am scared for my mental 😂
October 1, 2024
First off, I want to send a huge thank you to the author Kelsey for allowing me to read an ARC of this book! This was hands-down one of my most anticipated reads of the year, and I'll admit I was nervous about potential "second book syndrome." But let me tell you, those fears were completely unfounded – this sequel not only met my expectations, it soared right on past them.
From the very first page, it's clear that Kelsey's talent for character development has only grown stronger. The found family? Top notch. And the way she handles trauma and grief in this installment is nothing short of extraordinary. It's some of the most authentic, gut-punching emotional writing I've ever encountered. Even in moments when I wanted to reach through the pages to shake some sense into the FMC (and believe me, there were several), I found myself deeply empathizing with her and relating to her trauma responses.
One of my few critiques of the first book was a desire for more world-building, and I'm thrilled to report that Kelsey has delivered spectacularly on this front. This sequel expands the universe dramatically, allowing us to explore and learn so much more about the world while simultaneously introducing new mysteries and questions that leave us hungry for more.
And the romance? Oh my. Without giving away any spoilers, the slow-burn development in this book had me perched on the edge of my seat. I'm rooting so hard for a certain pairing, and the anticipation is torture – in the absolute best way possible.
Easy 5/5 stars. If you enjoyed the first book, prepare to fall head over heels for this sequel. It takes everything that made the debut great and elevates it to new heights. The character depth, the found family, the world-building, the intense emotions – it's all there, and then some. I will be impatiently counting down the days until the third book is in my hands, and I can't recommend this series highly enough!
From the very first page, it's clear that Kelsey's talent for character development has only grown stronger. The found family? Top notch. And the way she handles trauma and grief in this installment is nothing short of extraordinary. It's some of the most authentic, gut-punching emotional writing I've ever encountered. Even in moments when I wanted to reach through the pages to shake some sense into the FMC (and believe me, there were several), I found myself deeply empathizing with her and relating to her trauma responses.
One of my few critiques of the first book was a desire for more world-building, and I'm thrilled to report that Kelsey has delivered spectacularly on this front. This sequel expands the universe dramatically, allowing us to explore and learn so much more about the world while simultaneously introducing new mysteries and questions that leave us hungry for more.
And the romance? Oh my. Without giving away any spoilers, the slow-burn development in this book had me perched on the edge of my seat. I'm rooting so hard for a certain pairing, and the anticipation is torture – in the absolute best way possible.
Easy 5/5 stars. If you enjoyed the first book, prepare to fall head over heels for this sequel. It takes everything that made the debut great and elevates it to new heights. The character depth, the found family, the world-building, the intense emotions – it's all there, and then some. I will be impatiently counting down the days until the third book is in my hands, and I can't recommend this series highly enough!
November 13, 2025
5⭐️ I never expected this series to become one of my favourite of all time but here we are. MASTERPIECE.
It’s only a matter of time before this book receives the hype it deserves. I read this so slowly so that I could savour every second because I didn’t want it to end.
It’s not just the romance I’m obsessed with in this book, it’s the found family. Arguably one of the best books with the found family trope I’ve ever read. The post apocalyptic setting makes the stakes feel higher, and the magic she’s interwoven in the story leaves you desperate for more.
KL Speer has masterfully taken her time to make us bond and grow with everyone. The first book was slower but it all paid off because you become so unbelievably invested and sucked into this world she’s created.
Ember (Bones) the fmc, frustrated me at first because of her closed off personality and the way she struggled to let people in. Now I feel like I understand her pain and personality so deeply and seeing her character growth has been amazing.
Mac, I’M IN LOVE WITH. That’s all I’ll say so I don’t give anything away.
I’m DESPERATE for the next book, as soon as it releases I will be dropping everything to read it.
It’s only a matter of time before this book receives the hype it deserves. I read this so slowly so that I could savour every second because I didn’t want it to end.
It’s not just the romance I’m obsessed with in this book, it’s the found family. Arguably one of the best books with the found family trope I’ve ever read. The post apocalyptic setting makes the stakes feel higher, and the magic she’s interwoven in the story leaves you desperate for more.
KL Speer has masterfully taken her time to make us bond and grow with everyone. The first book was slower but it all paid off because you become so unbelievably invested and sucked into this world she’s created.
Ember (Bones) the fmc, frustrated me at first because of her closed off personality and the way she struggled to let people in. Now I feel like I understand her pain and personality so deeply and seeing her character growth has been amazing.
Mac, I’M IN LOVE WITH. That’s all I’ll say so I don’t give anything away.
I’m DESPERATE for the next book, as soon as it releases I will be dropping everything to read it.
September 30, 2024
Finished this book in one sitting and loved it!
Applied for the ARC because I was obsessed with book 1 and this one also did not disappoint.
Writing was good and easy to follow f.e. didn't have any problems with having to re-read sentences or being confused how things were written.
This book was "slower" than the first one. A lot still happend but it focused more on the characters and their emotions and how they are with each other / fit with each other.
This book builds on the info we received from the first one. We get more background information about characters (new char., new char. only mentioned in book 1 and old char.) and more info about different factions/people that excist in this dystopian world. In book 1 we recieved questions and here some of them are answered but of course we also have more questions :). (Can't wait to have them answered in book 3!)
Applied for the ARC because I was obsessed with book 1 and this one also did not disappoint.
Writing was good and easy to follow f.e. didn't have any problems with having to re-read sentences or being confused how things were written.
This book was "slower" than the first one. A lot still happend but it focused more on the characters and their emotions and how they are with each other / fit with each other.
This book builds on the info we received from the first one. We get more background information about characters (new char., new char. only mentioned in book 1 and old char.) and more info about different factions/people that excist in this dystopian world. In book 1 we recieved questions and here some of them are answered but of course we also have more questions :). (Can't wait to have them answered in book 3!)
September 20, 2025
4.50
If you loved Boys of Tommen for the childhood trauma, protective male characters that will give you all the fuzzy feelings, and an incredible found family…but also like a Mad Max post apocalyptic type world, than the Bones series might be for you.
Although I read the first half in basically one sitting, I did start to struggle once I realized the entire first half of the book was entirely centred around her trauma than the actual plot.
I quickly came to the conclusion this book is from the perspective of a very traumatized young woman who has experienced horrific things. So it’s completely understandable she would be caught in a loop of hopeless depression. But, I do have to admit it was very frustrating to read through at times.
It has to be said I was incredibly impressed by the vast variety of emotions KL Speer put me through from page to page. I was giggling, outraged, disgusted, overjoyed, and teared up more than I liked to admit.
But I think I was most impressed by how incredibly well Speer planned out this story. From book 1!
And that ending?! I need book 3 asap.
Although this book had some flaws, it was fresh, raw, and heartfelt. I highly recommend it.
If you loved Boys of Tommen for the childhood trauma, protective male characters that will give you all the fuzzy feelings, and an incredible found family…but also like a Mad Max post apocalyptic type world, than the Bones series might be for you.
Although I read the first half in basically one sitting, I did start to struggle once I realized the entire first half of the book was entirely centred around her trauma than the actual plot.
I quickly came to the conclusion this book is from the perspective of a very traumatized young woman who has experienced horrific things. So it’s completely understandable she would be caught in a loop of hopeless depression. But, I do have to admit it was very frustrating to read through at times.
It has to be said I was incredibly impressed by the vast variety of emotions KL Speer put me through from page to page. I was giggling, outraged, disgusted, overjoyed, and teared up more than I liked to admit.
But I think I was most impressed by how incredibly well Speer planned out this story. From book 1!
And that ending?! I need book 3 asap.
Although this book had some flaws, it was fresh, raw, and heartfelt. I highly recommend it.
December 23, 2025
I'm honestly surprised, but I liked this book more than book 1. There's more world building. we meet Bones's brother. There's still the shadow entity mystery. Other people in the Vault are developing powers. And now there's a new big-bad, the Voiceless.
Bones, now Ember, is torn between Lee, the bad boy member of her brother, Wolf's, crew, and Mac...sweet, perfect, delicious Mac.
Meanwhile, the Voiceless are hunting her because they believe she is a goddess of life, who should be united with the god of death. And Bones still just wants to heal people.
I couldn't put this book down, just like the first, and I can't wait for the next one.
Bones, now Ember, is torn between Lee, the bad boy member of her brother, Wolf's, crew, and Mac...sweet, perfect, delicious Mac.
Meanwhile, the Voiceless are hunting her because they believe she is a goddess of life, who should be united with the god of death. And Bones still just wants to heal people.
I couldn't put this book down, just like the first, and I can't wait for the next one.
May 1, 2025
This series is hurting my feelings and I’m only anticipating more pain to come :’)
I don’t think Fangs needed to be such a long book because it felt like a lot of the time was spent with Bones/Ember going through the same emotions again and again. That being said, it also made sense because trauma and healing is so up and down and is a constant battle. So I appreciate that we are seeing her go through this long and difficult road to healing.
Onto our new characters in this one; I love Wolf. He had his moments of being a complete ass but you can just tell he cares so much he’s just useless at expressing himself most of the time. His love for Em makes me melt - and the humming! I lost it.
Listen, I can tell I’m not supposed to like Lee as much as I do, and I can feel a betrayal coming my way - BUT I can’t help it I love him!! It’s the sunshine but cocky attitude for me. Plus he does have lots of moments of showing genuine care and affection for Em (don’t even get me started with the freckles and constellations!!) But my intuition is telling me he ain’t it and ngl this upsets me.
Mac is dare I say, flawless? There isn’t a single thing I dislike about him but save my soul, I’m still team Lee even though I know it’s wrong.
I have so many questions about the voiceless and menace, and like what the heck is going to happen to our girl Ember?? I am completely invested in this series.
I don’t think Fangs needed to be such a long book because it felt like a lot of the time was spent with Bones/Ember going through the same emotions again and again. That being said, it also made sense because trauma and healing is so up and down and is a constant battle. So I appreciate that we are seeing her go through this long and difficult road to healing.
Onto our new characters in this one; I love Wolf. He had his moments of being a complete ass but you can just tell he cares so much he’s just useless at expressing himself most of the time. His love for Em makes me melt - and the humming! I lost it.
Listen, I can tell I’m not supposed to like Lee as much as I do, and I can feel a betrayal coming my way - BUT I can’t help it I love him!! It’s the sunshine but cocky attitude for me. Plus he does have lots of moments of showing genuine care and affection for Em (don’t even get me started with the freckles and constellations!!) But my intuition is telling me he ain’t it and ngl this upsets me.
Mac is dare I say, flawless? There isn’t a single thing I dislike about him but save my soul, I’m still team Lee even though I know it’s wrong.
I have so many questions about the voiceless and menace, and like what the heck is going to happen to our girl Ember?? I am completely invested in this series.
October 14, 2024
Jaw. On. The. Floor.
Okay y’all, this series is climbing my favorites list real fast. If Mad Max and The 100 had a post-apocalyptic baby, this book would be it!
In Fangs, we get an even deeper dive into Bones’ backstory. We learn all about her childhood and the brutal events that shaped her into the resilient, human, and totally badass woman she is today. Honestly, her character development feels like it was specifically written for anyone who’s been through it—especially women.
The book doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff either. It delves into some serious trauma, but Bones is the kind of FMC who makes you feel seen, ya know? She’s raw, real, and resilient in a way that makes you want to cheer her on one moment and cry the next. Without giving away spoilers (and while avoiding a laundry list of trigger warnings), let’s just say her journey is one you feel deeply.
This is a solid 5-star read for me, because finding a relatable FMC who’s both vulnerable and kickass? Hell to the yes.
* arc review
October 13, 2024
ARC copy for honest review.
Kelsey Speer takes her time to establish character relationships and build understanding and trust between such traumatized people. Ember is a deeply broken person and tries hard to hold onto small comforts in a cruel, post-apocalyptic world. The fantasy portion is slowly trickling into the series, and sometimes I want a little more.
This story is so different and original, but I feel like there were some spicy character interactions that just didn't make sense for who these people are. It feels like there was a lot of influence from popular spicy book tropes that was suddenly thrown in just for the sake of having spice. I love a spicy book, but it doesn't need to be thrown in just for the sake of having spice.
Regardless of that weirdness, the story is fascinating. I can't wait to see where the series goes
Kelsey Speer takes her time to establish character relationships and build understanding and trust between such traumatized people. Ember is a deeply broken person and tries hard to hold onto small comforts in a cruel, post-apocalyptic world. The fantasy portion is slowly trickling into the series, and sometimes I want a little more.
This story is so different and original, but I feel like there were some spicy character interactions that just didn't make sense for who these people are. It feels like there was a lot of influence from popular spicy book tropes that was suddenly thrown in just for the sake of having spice. I love a spicy book, but it doesn't need to be thrown in just for the sake of having spice.
Regardless of that weirdness, the story is fascinating. I can't wait to see where the series goes
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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