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Age of Alora: Rift Bound - Book One
If you were pulled into a magical world against your will by your fated mate, would you stay? When a comet rips the world apart in Elowen’s backyard, magic starts leaking through in the form of a tall and ridiculously handsome aeris named Serran. He doesn't belong in the human realm. But Serran has no plans of staying in Elowen’s world. And he has no plans of leaving her behind. After being forced through the rift, Elowen has to grapple with the magnitude of the Aeris royalty dragging her along and the knowledge that her world is now in danger. This isn't the first time the rift has opened. And Alora has a history of eradicating humans, but Serran is determined to keep Elowen by his side. The pull they feel towards each other is undeniable. But is it enough to bridge the gap between worlds? Not every bond is meant to be forged, and not every life is meant to be saved.
439 pages, Hardcover
Published May 25, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 21, 2026
This series has a lot of potential especially as a debut novel, I really enjoyed the imagery and the descriptions of Kavarue. I also love the concept of the rift and how the two worlds are connected, but the limited stakes and the main conflict didn’t live up to the potential of the setting and the world-building, which the author did a wonderful job with. I did feel like both the FMC and MMC were underdeveloped, as well as the overall conflict, which slowed the pace a bit. Serran (MMC) was surprisingly more fleshed out than Elowen (FMC) and I felt like her motivations and inner conflicts with her initial kidnapping through the rift (which happens early on, so not a spoiler) weren’t very clear. I think the story has a lot of potential and I can’t wait for the second book to see where the plot goes from here.
June 8, 2026
This book had a lot of potential; a pretty cool world development with an interesting concept of “a rift”.
However, the lack of character development for the FMC, and the MMC not being very likable, made the main relationship hard to swallow.
I’m hoping the MMC isn’t endgame and we’re introduced to a “Rhysand”, if you will, in book 2.
However, the lack of character development for the FMC, and the MMC not being very likable, made the main relationship hard to swallow.
I’m hoping the MMC isn’t endgame and we’re introduced to a “Rhysand”, if you will, in book 2.
October 9, 2026
3.5 stars for me.
Interesting story and world building.Magical world,fated mate who's not human and someone who wants Elowen out of the way.What she should do,come back to her world or stay with Serran?
I liked the different world and customs,it was mysterious and beautiful,the romance was spicy and sweet.Wish only there was more of Elowen backstory,that fell short for me.Still a fantasy read that was worth the read.Hope to get second book soon.
Thank you author for ebook copy,my review is honest and my own.
Interesting story and world building.Magical world,fated mate who's not human and someone who wants Elowen out of the way.What she should do,come back to her world or stay with Serran?
I liked the different world and customs,it was mysterious and beautiful,the romance was spicy and sweet.Wish only there was more of Elowen backstory,that fell short for me.Still a fantasy read that was worth the read.Hope to get second book soon.
Thank you author for ebook copy,my review is honest and my own.
October 22, 2026
Age of Alora bij C.S. Ruiz, a joyful, mellow read. A story which truly deserves the 4 stars.
From beginning to end, the character development, story line and writing style remain truthful and believable. Our FMC Elowen is this young lady with not much to live for in her own world. Our MMC Serran is this beautiful and magical king in his own realm. During the opening scenes our FMC is the one in power and control, which soon switches to our MMC. But this switch isn't in a domineering or overpowering way, it's in this sweet and caring way.
From the very beginning we're aware of the FMC's feelings towards Serran. While this is clear for us as readers, the FMC herself is in doubt and denial of these feelings. Especially with the way she's taken to another realm. On top of that there's rebellion, changes, faith and a calm developing relationship. Even though our main characters both feel the magnetism, they give each other plenty of room to talk about feelings and to discover what it means for themselves.
Age of Alora does feel as the opening of a bigger series with more political and racial problems. Humans versus Aeris, Earth versus Alora. The Ulu who don't want anything to do with humans, and other courts that are making sure they learn more about human physiology. Age of Alora is a nice starter, which gives you time to discover Alora, the situation and the main characters. If I'm right, I do think the next part will be packed with problems for our main characters, which they will have to solve together. But also those tidbits of information about Elowen and her mother… something happened between them.
All in all, a book that calmed my mind and took me on a trip to Alora. The ending of the story is rewarding with the lairissa that takes place. Warm and fuzzy feelings all around. However, I'm really looking forward to reading part two of the Rift Bound series.
Thanks to C.S. Ruiz for giving me the opportunity to read Rift Bound book 1 - Age of Alora for free.
From beginning to end, the character development, story line and writing style remain truthful and believable. Our FMC Elowen is this young lady with not much to live for in her own world. Our MMC Serran is this beautiful and magical king in his own realm. During the opening scenes our FMC is the one in power and control, which soon switches to our MMC. But this switch isn't in a domineering or overpowering way, it's in this sweet and caring way.
From the very beginning we're aware of the FMC's feelings towards Serran. While this is clear for us as readers, the FMC herself is in doubt and denial of these feelings. Especially with the way she's taken to another realm. On top of that there's rebellion, changes, faith and a calm developing relationship. Even though our main characters both feel the magnetism, they give each other plenty of room to talk about feelings and to discover what it means for themselves.
Age of Alora does feel as the opening of a bigger series with more political and racial problems. Humans versus Aeris, Earth versus Alora. The Ulu who don't want anything to do with humans, and other courts that are making sure they learn more about human physiology. Age of Alora is a nice starter, which gives you time to discover Alora, the situation and the main characters. If I'm right, I do think the next part will be packed with problems for our main characters, which they will have to solve together. But also those tidbits of information about Elowen and her mother… something happened between them.
All in all, a book that calmed my mind and took me on a trip to Alora. The ending of the story is rewarding with the lairissa that takes place. Warm and fuzzy feelings all around. However, I'm really looking forward to reading part two of the Rift Bound series.
Thanks to C.S. Ruiz for giving me the opportunity to read Rift Bound book 1 - Age of Alora for free.
October 10, 2026
C.S. Ruiz opens the Rift Bound series with a romantic fantasy that begins on an intriguing question: if a fated mate pulled you into a magical world against your will, would you stay? The premise is set in motion when a comet tears the world apart in Elowen’s backyard, allowing magic to seep into the human realm in the form of Serran, an aeris of royal standing. He has no intention of remaining in her world, and no intention of leaving her behind.
The novel’s central tension is well chosen. Elowen is not a willing traveler but a woman forced through the rift, and she must reckon both with the weight of Serran’s royal status and with the knowledge that her own world is now in danger. The history of the rift, and of Alora’s record of eradicating humans, gives the romance real stakes. The attraction between the leads is framed as undeniable, yet the story keeps open whether it can span two worlds whose histories are so hostile.
Ruiz also avoids offering an easy resolution to the genre’s fated-mate conceit. The closing note of the premise, that not every bond is meant to be forged and not every life is meant to be saved, suggests a story willing to weigh consequence against desire. [Add one specific observation here, such as the worldbuilding, the pacing, or how the central relationship develops.]
The book will appeal to readers of romantic fantasy, portal fantasy, and fated-mates storylines, particularly those who enjoy a royal love interest and the friction of forced proximity. It stands as the opening volume of a series, and readers should expect a foundation for further installments rather than a self-contained arc.
Recommended for: Fans of romantic fantasy with a portal-world setting, readers who enjoy fated-mate and forced-proximity dynamics, and those looking for a series opener with high stakes and a strong central pairing.
The novel’s central tension is well chosen. Elowen is not a willing traveler but a woman forced through the rift, and she must reckon both with the weight of Serran’s royal status and with the knowledge that her own world is now in danger. The history of the rift, and of Alora’s record of eradicating humans, gives the romance real stakes. The attraction between the leads is framed as undeniable, yet the story keeps open whether it can span two worlds whose histories are so hostile.
Ruiz also avoids offering an easy resolution to the genre’s fated-mate conceit. The closing note of the premise, that not every bond is meant to be forged and not every life is meant to be saved, suggests a story willing to weigh consequence against desire. [Add one specific observation here, such as the worldbuilding, the pacing, or how the central relationship develops.]
The book will appeal to readers of romantic fantasy, portal fantasy, and fated-mates storylines, particularly those who enjoy a royal love interest and the friction of forced proximity. It stands as the opening volume of a series, and readers should expect a foundation for further installments rather than a self-contained arc.
Recommended for: Fans of romantic fantasy with a portal-world setting, readers who enjoy fated-mate and forced-proximity dynamics, and those looking for a series opener with high stakes and a strong central pairing.
October 22, 2026
Age of Alora is a romantasy that follows Elowen – an ordinary woman (as far she knows) who is kidnapped by the otherworldly Serran and taken to his realm through a Rift. At first, she rails against her abductor and seeks escape, even as her fascination with his realm tempts her to stay. The book alternates between their two perspectives, as we delve deeper into the lore of Serran’s world, Kavarue, and their changing relationship.
Reading this, I have to say, I shared Elowen’s initial reaction. Kavarue was quite fascinating, and I very much wanted to hang around and learn more. Their relationship was another matter. For me story about a man taking a woman away against her will makes for an uncomfortable read. Her falling for him made it even more so. Especially since there seemed to be little reason beyond, ‘He’s charming’ (except that he keeps locking her up), ‘Keeping her safe’ (apart from putting her in danger in the first place), ‘Being nice to her’ (aside from taking her away by force) and ‘they’re destined to together’ (either that, or it’s just Stockholm Syndrome).
Maybe it’s a genre thing, I haven’t read much romantasy books, but those I have read seem to follow a similar outline skeleton. Personally, I just didn’t see enough flesh on those bones to convince me of their relationship and explain why Elowen wasn’t seizing any opportunity to escape him and explore this place on her own terms.
In the end, Kavare was a fascinating world, and I get why she’d want to be there, but not sure why she’d want to be there with him.
Reading this, I have to say, I shared Elowen’s initial reaction. Kavarue was quite fascinating, and I very much wanted to hang around and learn more. Their relationship was another matter. For me story about a man taking a woman away against her will makes for an uncomfortable read. Her falling for him made it even more so. Especially since there seemed to be little reason beyond, ‘He’s charming’ (except that he keeps locking her up), ‘Keeping her safe’ (apart from putting her in danger in the first place), ‘Being nice to her’ (aside from taking her away by force) and ‘they’re destined to together’ (either that, or it’s just Stockholm Syndrome).
Maybe it’s a genre thing, I haven’t read much romantasy books, but those I have read seem to follow a similar outline skeleton. Personally, I just didn’t see enough flesh on those bones to convince me of their relationship and explain why Elowen wasn’t seizing any opportunity to escape him and explore this place on her own terms.
In the end, Kavare was a fascinating world, and I get why she’d want to be there, but not sure why she’d want to be there with him.
July 26, 2026
This book was INCREDIBLE!!! I was very impressed with the fact that this was a debut book. I think Ruiz did an incredible job of storybuilding and world building, and introducing us to the characters. I agree with what some of the other reviews have said, I definitely feel like this book took a lot of time to help the readers visualize the world and the characters. I don’t think that it took away from the story, in fact, I think it was done in a very interesting way that made me want to keep reading.
As for the actual romance, I really enjoyed the pacing. I thought that the concept of soulmates was done in a very interesting way, but the author still gave the readers plenty of time to get to know the characters before they fell in love. I really enjoyed the concept of initial attraction vs. actually choosing to be with somebody. I wouldn’t quite call it a slow burn or an enemies to lovers, but there was definitely some hesitation between both of the main characters.
I have seen a lot of reviews saying that the MMC wasn’t very likable, but I would have to disagree. I think he was very straightforward and direct a lot of the time, but this didn’t necessarily make him unlikable in my eyes. The FMC, Elowen, was adorable and I loved seeing the world of Alora through her eyes.
If this was a debut novel, I can’t wait to see what Ruiz will create in the future!
As for the actual romance, I really enjoyed the pacing. I thought that the concept of soulmates was done in a very interesting way, but the author still gave the readers plenty of time to get to know the characters before they fell in love. I really enjoyed the concept of initial attraction vs. actually choosing to be with somebody. I wouldn’t quite call it a slow burn or an enemies to lovers, but there was definitely some hesitation between both of the main characters.
I have seen a lot of reviews saying that the MMC wasn’t very likable, but I would have to disagree. I think he was very straightforward and direct a lot of the time, but this didn’t necessarily make him unlikable in my eyes. The FMC, Elowen, was adorable and I loved seeing the world of Alora through her eyes.
If this was a debut novel, I can’t wait to see what Ruiz will create in the future!
October 28, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.25 Stars!
Age of Alora by C.S. Ruiz was such a page-turner for me! 😍📚 I was hooked by the fantasy world, the characters, and the way the story kept pulling me in. I loved the mix of magic, mystery, and the feeling that there was always something more waiting to be uncovered. The world-building drew me in, and the characters made me genuinely invested in what happened to them.
I love when a fantasy book makes you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters, experiencing the twists, the tension, and all the moments that make you want to keep reading just one more chapter. And this book definitely did that for me! I couldn’t put it down. 🙌🏻
Without giving anything away, the story left me wanting MORE, and I’m so glad this is part of a series because I am absolutely not ready to leave this world behind! I cannot wait for the next book to be released. The wait is going to feel way too long! 😂
I’ve already recommended this one to a bunch of my book besties, and if you love fantasy and getting swept up in a story that keeps you turning the pages, definitely add this one to your TBR! ❤️✨
Final thoughts: A captivating fantasy read that kept me hooked, gave me characters to root for, and left me impatiently waiting for the next installment!
#AgeOfAlora #CSRuiz #FantasyBooks #BookReview #BookBesties #TBR
Age of Alora by C.S. Ruiz was such a page-turner for me! 😍📚 I was hooked by the fantasy world, the characters, and the way the story kept pulling me in. I loved the mix of magic, mystery, and the feeling that there was always something more waiting to be uncovered. The world-building drew me in, and the characters made me genuinely invested in what happened to them.
I love when a fantasy book makes you feel like you’re right there alongside the characters, experiencing the twists, the tension, and all the moments that make you want to keep reading just one more chapter. And this book definitely did that for me! I couldn’t put it down. 🙌🏻
Without giving anything away, the story left me wanting MORE, and I’m so glad this is part of a series because I am absolutely not ready to leave this world behind! I cannot wait for the next book to be released. The wait is going to feel way too long! 😂
I’ve already recommended this one to a bunch of my book besties, and if you love fantasy and getting swept up in a story that keeps you turning the pages, definitely add this one to your TBR! ❤️✨
Final thoughts: A captivating fantasy read that kept me hooked, gave me characters to root for, and left me impatiently waiting for the next installment!
#AgeOfAlora #CSRuiz #FantasyBooks #BookReview #BookBesties #TBR
July 26, 2026
Age of Alora gave me Avatar vibes—in the best way. The immersive world-building was one of the strongest parts of the story. C.S. Ruiz paints Kavarue with such vivid detail that it feels like a place you could step into, and I loved how the unique dialect and phrases added authenticity to the culture rather than feeling forced.
Elowen and Serran’s journey kept me invested, especially with the fated mates trope woven throughout the story. There are a few spicy scenes, but the fantasy adventure and the rich setting remain the heart of the book.
My biggest hope for the next installment is more character development. I’d love to dive deeper into Elowen’s lineage and uncover more about Serran’s complicated relationship with his father, the previous king. Both storylines feel like they have so much potential and left me wanting more.
Since this is the start of a series, I’m excited to see where the story goes next. If you’re looking for an immersive fantasy with detailed world-building, a unique culture, fated mates, and a touch of romance, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Tropes:
✨ Fated Mates
👑 Royal Politics
🌿 Fantasy World
❤️ Romance
🌶️ Mild Spice
Elowen and Serran’s journey kept me invested, especially with the fated mates trope woven throughout the story. There are a few spicy scenes, but the fantasy adventure and the rich setting remain the heart of the book.
My biggest hope for the next installment is more character development. I’d love to dive deeper into Elowen’s lineage and uncover more about Serran’s complicated relationship with his father, the previous king. Both storylines feel like they have so much potential and left me wanting more.
Since this is the start of a series, I’m excited to see where the story goes next. If you’re looking for an immersive fantasy with detailed world-building, a unique culture, fated mates, and a touch of romance, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Tropes:
✨ Fated Mates
👑 Royal Politics
🌿 Fantasy World
❤️ Romance
🌶️ Mild Spice
September 11, 2026
The Aeris have always lived parallel to us humans. Never with us but connected. Two worlds living apart. Soulmates must find one another. Rifts appear every few hundred years what come of these rifts is pain, war, worlds divided and sometimes love. Elowen loved the stories her grandmother told her, but they were just stories right? The night the comet came Elowen finds a strange being injuried on the porch. Fear is overpowered by the need to help someone suffering she attempts to tend to his wounds then take him back to the rift so he can go home. Serrano knows she is his soulmate even if he can not understand it. Pulling her into his world he attempts to show her another world, another life. Will they find their way before its too late? C.S. Ruiz brings us this fantastical story of love, betrayal, and beauty set in the kingdoms of the Aeris. Very good story that magically spims around you wjere you find yourself rooting for who you thought was the villain. 4.5 out of 5 Is for mature readers as there is spice. Looking forward to the next book as the character's journey os only beginning.
July 7, 2026
Age of Alora is one of those books that steadily builds its world before revealing just how much is waiting beneath the surface.
I'll admit, it took me a little while to settle into the story. The opening felt like it was doing a lot of setting the scenes, and I found myself really becoming invested once Elowen is unexpectedly abducted yet again. From that moment on, the story found its stride for me, opening the door to hidden secrets, shifting loyalties, and long-buried truths that kept me wanting to uncover more.
One of the standout aspects of this book was undoubtedly the world-building. C. S. Ruiz has created a vivid fantasy world, and the descriptions throughout made it easy to picture each setting. I especially loved the way the Aeris and their wings were described - they were imaginative, beautifully detailed, and added a real sense of wonder to the world.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with rich world-building, royal intrigue, and mysteries that gradually unfold, Age of Alora is one to add to your TBR.
I'll admit, it took me a little while to settle into the story. The opening felt like it was doing a lot of setting the scenes, and I found myself really becoming invested once Elowen is unexpectedly abducted yet again. From that moment on, the story found its stride for me, opening the door to hidden secrets, shifting loyalties, and long-buried truths that kept me wanting to uncover more.
One of the standout aspects of this book was undoubtedly the world-building. C. S. Ruiz has created a vivid fantasy world, and the descriptions throughout made it easy to picture each setting. I especially loved the way the Aeris and their wings were described - they were imaginative, beautifully detailed, and added a real sense of wonder to the world.
If you enjoy fantasy filled with rich world-building, royal intrigue, and mysteries that gradually unfold, Age of Alora is one to add to your TBR.
October 14, 2026
There is no greater sacrifice made than those out of love, and no greater cost paid.
If your soul mate took you to another world, through a Rift, would you stay? Or would you leave?
Readers be prepared to dive into a new territory.. New race, new world, new language. This worldbuilding has it all ! It was actually very well thought through, with the race itself having legends, traditions and even some practices that would definitely embarrass a human. 😊
The characters, though, I found lacking. Lacking depth, consistency, spark. I was zero invested in them, thus having zero expectations. They felt flat and two-dimensional, almost childish at times. Their dialog also felt somewhat uninvested.
Plot was easy to follow but, since I couldn’t connect with any of the characters, it did not speak to me emotionally.
All in all, I think it was a fair try for a debut book. I believe the story could have benefited greatly from further character development, as well as some feedback from alpha, beta and ARC readers. 😊
If your soul mate took you to another world, through a Rift, would you stay? Or would you leave?
Readers be prepared to dive into a new territory.. New race, new world, new language. This worldbuilding has it all ! It was actually very well thought through, with the race itself having legends, traditions and even some practices that would definitely embarrass a human. 😊
The characters, though, I found lacking. Lacking depth, consistency, spark. I was zero invested in them, thus having zero expectations. They felt flat and two-dimensional, almost childish at times. Their dialog also felt somewhat uninvested.
Plot was easy to follow but, since I couldn’t connect with any of the characters, it did not speak to me emotionally.
All in all, I think it was a fair try for a debut book. I believe the story could have benefited greatly from further character development, as well as some feedback from alpha, beta and ARC readers. 😊
July 11, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this and think it's a pretty good start to the series.
The descriptions made it incredibly easy to picture myself in each setting. C.S. Ruiz was able to create such a unique, rich and vivid world that I really enjoyed learning about.
I'm really curious to know more about the rift and how it came to be. I'm also curious about Elowen, what her life was like before she was taken to Alora. It kind of felt like she just appeared and nothing came before her in Alora. Although there's some sprinkling of things she did in the human world, I guess they didn't really feel impactful and Serran felt more fleshed out than she did.
Ultimately, I'm really looking forward to seeing how this series progresses and how it's world and characters end up!
Thank you to the author and booksprout for the advance review copy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The descriptions made it incredibly easy to picture myself in each setting. C.S. Ruiz was able to create such a unique, rich and vivid world that I really enjoyed learning about.
I'm really curious to know more about the rift and how it came to be. I'm also curious about Elowen, what her life was like before she was taken to Alora. It kind of felt like she just appeared and nothing came before her in Alora. Although there's some sprinkling of things she did in the human world, I guess they didn't really feel impactful and Serran felt more fleshed out than she did.
Ultimately, I'm really looking forward to seeing how this series progresses and how it's world and characters end up!
Thank you to the author and booksprout for the advance review copy.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2026
*Age of Alora: Rift Bound* pulled me in with its intriguing mix of magic, danger, and an unexpected connection between two very different worlds. I found the premise of Elowen being swept into a world she never asked to enter especially interesting, because she has to face not only the unknown but also the consequences of a bond she may not fully understand.
Serran adds another layer of mystery to the story. The tension between their undeniable connection and the dangers surrounding them makes you wonder whether love can truly overcome everything standing in their way. I also enjoyed the idea of a rift with a dark history, especially the threat Alora poses to humanity.
Overall, this sounds like an exciting read for fans of magical worlds, fated mates, and fantasy romance with high stakes. I'm particularly curious to see how Elowen adapts to her new reality and whether the bond between her and Serran will become their greatest strength or their biggest challenge.
Serran adds another layer of mystery to the story. The tension between their undeniable connection and the dangers surrounding them makes you wonder whether love can truly overcome everything standing in their way. I also enjoyed the idea of a rift with a dark history, especially the threat Alora poses to humanity.
Overall, this sounds like an exciting read for fans of magical worlds, fated mates, and fantasy romance with high stakes. I'm particularly curious to see how Elowen adapts to her new reality and whether the bond between her and Serran will become their greatest strength or their biggest challenge.
July 14, 2026
There are some fantasy books you read, and then there are fantasy books you truly experience. The Age of Alora was definitely the latter for me.
From the very beginning, I was immersed in a world filled with ancient secrets, dangerous politics and unforgettable creatures . I loved that the author doesn’t hand you all the answers right away—you discover the world alongside the characters, which made the journey even more rewarding.
The writing is absolutely gorgeous. I found myself slowing down just to appreciate the descriptions of the kingdom, architecture, and landscapes. Everything felt vivid, grand, and carefully crafted.
Beyond the beautiful world-building, the story delivers plenty of action, emotional moments, betrayals, and unexpected twists that kept me turning the pages. I quickly became invested in Alora and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.
From the very beginning, I was immersed in a world filled with ancient secrets, dangerous politics and unforgettable creatures . I loved that the author doesn’t hand you all the answers right away—you discover the world alongside the characters, which made the journey even more rewarding.
The writing is absolutely gorgeous. I found myself slowing down just to appreciate the descriptions of the kingdom, architecture, and landscapes. Everything felt vivid, grand, and carefully crafted.
Beyond the beautiful world-building, the story delivers plenty of action, emotional moments, betrayals, and unexpected twists that kept me turning the pages. I quickly became invested in Alora and couldn’t wait to see what would happen next.
July 20, 2026
« If you were pulled into a magical world against your will by your fated mate, would you stay ? ». That sentence alone made me want to read this book, which is the first of a three book series.
The world building was really good and the descriptions made it easy to be immersed in the story and imagine the scenes without effort. I liked the relationship between the two main characters, Elowyn and Serran, and I want to read more about them (I feel like their characters could have been a little bit more developped).
The story is intriguing, with so much happening that you just can’t stop turning the pages (even though some moments were a little bit slow). I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book - I would love to know more about the rift for instance, but also Elowyn’s grandmother.
Thank you Booksprout and C. S. Ruiz for the ARC !
The world building was really good and the descriptions made it easy to be immersed in the story and imagine the scenes without effort. I liked the relationship between the two main characters, Elowyn and Serran, and I want to read more about them (I feel like their characters could have been a little bit more developped).
The story is intriguing, with so much happening that you just can’t stop turning the pages (even though some moments were a little bit slow). I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book - I would love to know more about the rift for instance, but also Elowyn’s grandmother.
Thank you Booksprout and C. S. Ruiz for the ARC !
October 25, 2026
I absolutely loved this book! The characters are so lovable, and Elowen is such a relatable FMC, which made it so easy to connect with her and become invested in her journey.
The world-building is incredible and genuinely immersive. I especially loved the author’s unique way of describing things, making it so easy to picture the world in my head and feel completely transported into it. The writing style is also the perfect balance of fast-paced and detailed, keeping me hooked without feeling rushed. I ended up finishing the entire book in just two days because I constantly wanted to know what happened next!
Overall, such an enjoyable fantasy read with a captivating world, wonderful characters, and writing that really brings everything to life. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from C.S. Ruiz!
The world-building is incredible and genuinely immersive. I especially loved the author’s unique way of describing things, making it so easy to picture the world in my head and feel completely transported into it. The writing style is also the perfect balance of fast-paced and detailed, keeping me hooked without feeling rushed. I ended up finishing the entire book in just two days because I constantly wanted to know what happened next!
Overall, such an enjoyable fantasy read with a captivating world, wonderful characters, and writing that really brings everything to life. I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from C.S. Ruiz!
October 26, 2026
Emotional journey of an interesting relationship!
This one left me with mixed feelings, but one thing I absolutely loved was watching the relationship between Elowen and Serran develop. 💙
Elowen being pulled into Serran’s world against her wishes made their journey together all the more interesting. Watching their relationship grow and seeing how things evolved between them was honestly beautiful. 🥹💕 There’s something special about watching a relationship develop when the circumstances are far from what either person might have expected.
While I had some mixed feelings about the book overall, the growth of their relationship was definitely a highlight for me.
Sometimes it’s the emotional journey between two characters that makes a story stick with you long after you turn the final page. ✨
This one left me with mixed feelings, but one thing I absolutely loved was watching the relationship between Elowen and Serran develop. 💙
Elowen being pulled into Serran’s world against her wishes made their journey together all the more interesting. Watching their relationship grow and seeing how things evolved between them was honestly beautiful. 🥹💕 There’s something special about watching a relationship develop when the circumstances are far from what either person might have expected.
While I had some mixed feelings about the book overall, the growth of their relationship was definitely a highlight for me.
Sometimes it’s the emotional journey between two characters that makes a story stick with you long after you turn the final page. ✨
June 28, 2026
I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for the second one. From the first page I was hooked and finished it in a few hours. The world building and the world itself is so magical and beautiful. The relationship between Elowyn and Serran is so pure and I couldn't get enough of them. I can't wait to see whats in store for them and how they're relationship progresses. I also hope book 2 dives more into the connection with her grandmother and Alora. It was such a beautiful story and im sad it's over for now. ♡.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2026
I enjoyed this book and thought it was a solid start to the series. The world was interesting, and I loved the whole rift concept. It definitely kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
I did wish we got a little more character development, especially with Elowyn and Serran. There were a few moments where I wanted to feel more connected to them and understand their emotions a little better. I also felt like the pacing slowed down in a couple of spots.
Overall, I'm glad I read it and I'm definitely interested in seeing where the story goes in book two.
I did wish we got a little more character development, especially with Elowyn and Serran. There were a few moments where I wanted to feel more connected to them and understand their emotions a little better. I also felt like the pacing slowed down in a couple of spots.
Overall, I'm glad I read it and I'm definitely interested in seeing where the story goes in book two.
October 24, 2026
This story is great, I like the way it’s built up, and how I progress., world building
I like how they don’t fit together but still do.
But still a little flat, I which we could get a little more out of the story
The writing is great but I have to say I know they have another language, and this my be a me problem but I fall out the the language change. ( I am not thanking that in the considering for star reviews)
All in all a good story
I like how they don’t fit together but still do.
But still a little flat, I which we could get a little more out of the story
The writing is great but I have to say I know they have another language, and this my be a me problem but I fall out the the language change. ( I am not thanking that in the considering for star reviews)
All in all a good story
October 25, 2026
I really enjoyed reading this book. I’m hoping that in the next book to come that Elowen and Serran actually end up staying together and that there isn’t another male who gets involved. There is mystery and spicy involved in the book both of which I like. The only thing I would say I’m looking forward to reading more about is the past of Elowens grandmother and how she is connected to Serrans world.
October 29, 2026
An interesting premise, with a lot of potential. The world building is intriguing although could be further described/ developed.
Well paced.
Well paced.
August 3, 2026
3.5 ⭐️’s. This is a fun read and the story has detailed world building. I will recommend. And I will read the next book.
July 4, 2026
Rate: 3.5
Age of Alora was an enchanting new world to submerge myself in. The description of the Court of Kavarue was incredibly unique, and the rift between worlds was the perfect catalyst to keep the plot propelling forward.
Because I loved the foundation of this world, I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in certain areas.
I would have loved more individual character development for Elowen and Serran. While I love how they grow together, I wanted to see them grow as individuals. I also kept hoping for more backstory regarding Elowen's grandmother; I believe this would have shown the connection between Elowen and Serran better.
The pacing felt a bit chaotic soaring through some parts and going slow through others.
That said, this story has so much potential. It’s a solid 3.5 star read for me, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how C.S. Ruiz expands this world and grows these characters in the next book!
Age of Alora was an enchanting new world to submerge myself in. The description of the Court of Kavarue was incredibly unique, and the rift between worlds was the perfect catalyst to keep the plot propelling forward.
Because I loved the foundation of this world, I found myself wishing for a bit more depth in certain areas.
I would have loved more individual character development for Elowen and Serran. While I love how they grow together, I wanted to see them grow as individuals. I also kept hoping for more backstory regarding Elowen's grandmother; I believe this would have shown the connection between Elowen and Serran better.
The pacing felt a bit chaotic soaring through some parts and going slow through others.
That said, this story has so much potential. It’s a solid 3.5 star read for me, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how C.S. Ruiz expands this world and grows these characters in the next book!
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