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Night Elves of Abreia #3
Through Fire Redeemed
Night elf legends speak of the lost Valley of Mists, where an immortal king lies trapped in eternal sleep, awaiting the fated bride who will free him from this curse…
When aspiring scholar Camryn Halivard braved the deadly wilderness of Dunmaren in search of a folk tale, she did not expect to find a story without an ending. Still less did she expect to be rescued by a lethal but beautiful shapeshifter, who demands a terrible price in exchange…
Break the curse or die trying.
After centuries of a cursed existence, Xaviel lives only to protect the king who is closer to him than a brother. So when fate casts the fiercely brilliant but innocent Ryn as the bride who can finally free them from their soul-crushing prison, Xavi knows but one thing...
Even if his heart shatters, she can never be his.
From an enchanted labyrinth filled with monsters to the thorny coils of twisted fae bargains, Xavi and Ryn must endure trials that may break them… or forge them anew. But whether they win or lose, the final page of this legend will at last be written.
Will it be a timeless love story, or a star-crossed tale of tragedy and sacrifice?
The answer awaits…
When aspiring scholar Camryn Halivard braved the deadly wilderness of Dunmaren in search of a folk tale, she did not expect to find a story without an ending. Still less did she expect to be rescued by a lethal but beautiful shapeshifter, who demands a terrible price in exchange…
Break the curse or die trying.
After centuries of a cursed existence, Xaviel lives only to protect the king who is closer to him than a brother. So when fate casts the fiercely brilliant but innocent Ryn as the bride who can finally free them from their soul-crushing prison, Xavi knows but one thing...
Even if his heart shatters, she can never be his.
From an enchanted labyrinth filled with monsters to the thorny coils of twisted fae bargains, Xavi and Ryn must endure trials that may break them… or forge them anew. But whether they win or lose, the final page of this legend will at last be written.
Will it be a timeless love story, or a star-crossed tale of tragedy and sacrifice?
The answer awaits…
348 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2026
About the author
Kenley Davidson
40 books989 followersKenley Davidson is a romantic fantasy author and unrepentant caffeine addict who believes in the power of storytelling and loves nothing more than a good book hangover. Her books include romantasy, urban fantasy, fairy-tale retellings, and sci fi, but no matter the genre, she writes stories of hope and redemption with characters you can root for, heart-pounding romance without the spice, and happy endings that might just make you cry.
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
Her favorite things (besides books) are coffee, k-dramas, cats, and playing cozy video games. And also scones.
Kenley currently lives in Oklahoma, where she cares for a menagerie of misfit house plants while waiting for her adult children to occasionally pop in for laundry and a home-cooked meal.
Find out more about Kenley’s books at her website: kenleydavidson.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐ Loved this book! One of my favorite authors and one of my favorite fantasy series! ♥️ I have read books 1 and 2 twice and was so excited for this one! I loved Ryn; she was such a fun character. 😁 Loved Ryn & Xavi together! 💕
-Dual POVs
-A Legend, Trials & Monsters
-An Unflappable & Curious Scholar
-A Determined & Weary Guardian
"...magic had rules, just like everything else. It was really just... sparkling math."
-Dual POVs
-A Legend, Trials & Monsters
-An Unflappable & Curious Scholar
-A Determined & Weary Guardian
"...magic had rules, just like everything else. It was really just... sparkling math."
September 23, 2026
Tiddlywinks
It has been several years since I read book two in this series. That book had me curious about Lesh and the mist people and now I know the story.
Ryn was a feisty bookish heroine that had great dialogue. I laughed and smirked at so many things she said. I enjoyed Xavial’s ( aka Lesh) POV chapters. He had lots of bitterness at the beginning, but then grew into a caring character capable of love and affection.
I do wish that the book was a little longer. The love between both MCs needed a bit more time to grow IMO. Also, I thought this would be nonstop adventure and mayhem, but there were a few chapters with cozy fantasy vibes. It threw the pacing off a little bit for me, but made the epilogue more meaningful.
I love the new covers and may buy the series in paperback when these covers are available in that format.
Content: no cursing. A few kisses that are not detailed at all. I would say this book is safe for YA.
It has been several years since I read book two in this series. That book had me curious about Lesh and the mist people and now I know the story.
Ryn was a feisty bookish heroine that had great dialogue. I laughed and smirked at so many things she said. I enjoyed Xavial’s ( aka Lesh) POV chapters. He had lots of bitterness at the beginning, but then grew into a caring character capable of love and affection.
I do wish that the book was a little longer. The love between both MCs needed a bit more time to grow IMO. Also, I thought this would be nonstop adventure and mayhem, but there were a few chapters with cozy fantasy vibes. It threw the pacing off a little bit for me, but made the epilogue more meaningful.
I love the new covers and may buy the series in paperback when these covers are available in that format.
Content: no cursing. A few kisses that are not detailed at all. I would say this book is safe for YA.
September 29, 2026
Loved it :)
September 22, 2026
Let me start with the worst part about this book.... it's that I'm so incredibly sad that this is the last book in the Night Elves series! I absolutely loved and adored the night elf characters. I fell in love with Kyrion (read KD's Faceless Mage/Legends of Abreia) and was so thrilled when she started this series to expand upon the Night Elves! And every book has been AMAZING. I've truly loved every one.
I agree with another reviewer that it's a great idea to read the previous book (Blood Oath Bound) as we are introduced to Xavi (our MMC) towards the end of that book. That little tidbit about him had me hooked and I couldn't wait for his story!
Which brings me to the best part- this book is captivating. Ryn, our female MC, is just as kind, strong, and likeable as our previous FMCs in the night elf series. She is intelligent, determined, and clever without crossing the line of being arrogant, stubborn, or foolish. Xavi is so broken and hopeless in the beginning, yet despite everything, still has a caring heart. I loved to see him grow and let Ryn in throughout the book.
The story was intriguing, although it moved slightly slow around the 2/3 part of the story. I'm sure some of that was because I was impatient to see how everything would wrap up. I really loved how we slowly started getting pieces of what had happened to cause the Mist King and Xavi's situation.
The one change I would have made would have been more romance- it was definitely a slow burn in this one, more so than the previous stories. Also, I would be beyond ecstatic if KD would create some short story/epilogues about all the night elf characters. There's so much opportunity to see the characters from the different books meet up. (For instance, Sky and Rhone from BOB know Xavi, and Rhone from BOB knows Tal and Aislin from IDF, but it would be so fun to see Tal and Aislin meet Xavi and Ryn! Or to just run into Rhone and Sky again).
Please read this book, read the whole series, you won't regret it! Of all of KD's books, this series is my absolute favorite!
I did receive an ARC but all opinions are my own.
I agree with another reviewer that it's a great idea to read the previous book (Blood Oath Bound) as we are introduced to Xavi (our MMC) towards the end of that book. That little tidbit about him had me hooked and I couldn't wait for his story!
Which brings me to the best part- this book is captivating. Ryn, our female MC, is just as kind, strong, and likeable as our previous FMCs in the night elf series. She is intelligent, determined, and clever without crossing the line of being arrogant, stubborn, or foolish. Xavi is so broken and hopeless in the beginning, yet despite everything, still has a caring heart. I loved to see him grow and let Ryn in throughout the book.
The story was intriguing, although it moved slightly slow around the 2/3 part of the story. I'm sure some of that was because I was impatient to see how everything would wrap up. I really loved how we slowly started getting pieces of what had happened to cause the Mist King and Xavi's situation.
The one change I would have made would have been more romance- it was definitely a slow burn in this one, more so than the previous stories. Also, I would be beyond ecstatic if KD would create some short story/epilogues about all the night elf characters. There's so much opportunity to see the characters from the different books meet up. (For instance, Sky and Rhone from BOB know Xavi, and Rhone from BOB knows Tal and Aislin from IDF, but it would be so fun to see Tal and Aislin meet Xavi and Ryn! Or to just run into Rhone and Sky again).
Please read this book, read the whole series, you won't regret it! Of all of KD's books, this series is my absolute favorite!
I did receive an ARC but all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A strong ending to the trilogy with potential for future growth.
Through Fire Redeemed is the third interconnected standalone in the Night Elves of Abreia series. Human scholar Ryn meets Lycori warrior Xavi while on an academic research trip to the dangerous forests of Dunmaren. To Xavi, Ryn initially is a potential solution to dispel the magic trapping him and keeping his king in stasis. Through a series of trials, the two grow ever closer as they work together, even as both know that breaking centuries-long curse requires a mortal bride to wake the king and free Xavi.
This is my favorite installment in this trilogy, and worth the wait. While the first two books of the trilogy have direct overlap, this third is separate and stands sometime later in the timeline. There is also probably the least world-building here of the three, but it is also the most emotionally driven. Ryn is a dedicated scholar and committed to her research on the folklore of the night elves. While not a warrior, she is determined, quick-thinking and practical. Xavi was harder to like initially, having struggled under the weight of the curse and its corrupting influence, but he becomes Ryn’s steadfast protector. Sometimes human love interests with an immortal seem mismatched, but Ryn’s curiosity, fearlessness and independence feel particularly suited to Xavi, who has been isolated for so long. Their relationship really builds as they collaborate through the trials and feels balanced.
Another reliable entry in Davidson’s catalogue. Recommended for fans of Davidson’s earlier works or readers looking for clean high fantasy like Tara Grayce’s Elven Alliance series. Thank you to the author for an advanced review copy. 4+ stars. All opinions are my own.
Through Fire Redeemed is the third interconnected standalone in the Night Elves of Abreia series. Human scholar Ryn meets Lycori warrior Xavi while on an academic research trip to the dangerous forests of Dunmaren. To Xavi, Ryn initially is a potential solution to dispel the magic trapping him and keeping his king in stasis. Through a series of trials, the two grow ever closer as they work together, even as both know that breaking centuries-long curse requires a mortal bride to wake the king and free Xavi.
This is my favorite installment in this trilogy, and worth the wait. While the first two books of the trilogy have direct overlap, this third is separate and stands sometime later in the timeline. There is also probably the least world-building here of the three, but it is also the most emotionally driven. Ryn is a dedicated scholar and committed to her research on the folklore of the night elves. While not a warrior, she is determined, quick-thinking and practical. Xavi was harder to like initially, having struggled under the weight of the curse and its corrupting influence, but he becomes Ryn’s steadfast protector. Sometimes human love interests with an immortal seem mismatched, but Ryn’s curiosity, fearlessness and independence feel particularly suited to Xavi, who has been isolated for so long. Their relationship really builds as they collaborate through the trials and feels balanced.
Another reliable entry in Davidson’s catalogue. Recommended for fans of Davidson’s earlier works or readers looking for clean high fantasy like Tara Grayce’s Elven Alliance series. Thank you to the author for an advanced review copy. 4+ stars. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have to admit the story started off a bit slow, as I was a bit confused by who was involved in the prologue. I guess Ms Davidson had to be deliberately vague in order to do the character reveal later on. In any case, the book definitely picked up once Ryn came on scene. The first scene with the professors definitely drew me in and generated some sympathy for her. Xavi's struggle with himself was quite compelling although I was a bit puzzled as to what his (sort of?) alter-ego Lesh was all about. Meanwhile, Ryn has her own struggle with rejection from the scholars and her family that she has to deal with. All of which get dealt with in this very intriguing set of trials which then culminates in a showdown at the end. The showdown was quite dramatic and I liked that Ryn kind of outsmarted the one who cursed them in the first place. In the end though, sacrifices still had to be made. I think overall there may have still been some logic leaps that I don't quite get, but the story was absorbing, intriguing and tugged at my heartstrings. It definitely made me want to keep reading on to find out what happened!
Quotes that I liked:
Ryn saying that a determined duck could kill her if it liked.
Xavi about Ryn's Dunmaren accent: Her accent nearly made his ears bleed (haha, poor thing).
Ryn on Xavi accompanying her: “I’m sure hosting a helpless human is not his idea of high entertainment"
Ryn is refreshingly honest abt herself “I’m utterly useless in any form of combat”
Ryn to Xavi “Are you volunteering for the position (of bride)? Come to think of it, you might look quite lovely in a dress.”
Quotes that I liked:
Ryn saying that a determined duck could kill her if it liked.
Xavi about Ryn's Dunmaren accent: Her accent nearly made his ears bleed (haha, poor thing).
Ryn on Xavi accompanying her: “I’m sure hosting a helpless human is not his idea of high entertainment"
Ryn is refreshingly honest abt herself “I’m utterly useless in any form of combat”
Ryn to Xavi “Are you volunteering for the position (of bride)? Come to think of it, you might look quite lovely in a dress.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
Y’all, I am devastated! Why did it have to end?!? Oh my Goodness! Okay. Breathe. Enough exclamation points. Through Fire Redeemed was such a beautiful conclusion to the Night Elves of Abreia Trilogy. The characters, the trials, the curse. Everything was beautiful. It was nothing like what I expected but it by far met my expectations.
Ryn is a fun and relatable character. I liked her passion and excitement over exploration and the search for answers. Xavi is an interesting match for her. You wouldn’t think they would work well together but they do. SPECTACULARLY! Every trial they went through together had me stressed, swooning, and laughing. Ryn is hilarious. Her ability to ignore danger is legendary. Xavi is a beautiful combination of danger, brokenness, and protective tendencies. I was so happy to finally meet him after By Blood Oath Bound. What a wild and heartfelt character.
The plot in Through Fire Redeemed had me biting my nails and wondering how everything would play out. I am so glad that I reread Stolen Thorn Bride and the first two Night Elves novels before going into this story. The novella helped me understand a couple of things toward the end of the book but it’s not absolutely necessary to understand what’s going on. I so, so hope to see more of a certain character that I was really sad about. Pretty please 🥺 Overall, I adored this story!
Thank you to Kenley Davidson for an ARC of Through Fire Redeemed! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 1.5 (light kissing)
Language: one instance of @ss
Faith-Elements: None
Ryn is a fun and relatable character. I liked her passion and excitement over exploration and the search for answers. Xavi is an interesting match for her. You wouldn’t think they would work well together but they do. SPECTACULARLY! Every trial they went through together had me stressed, swooning, and laughing. Ryn is hilarious. Her ability to ignore danger is legendary. Xavi is a beautiful combination of danger, brokenness, and protective tendencies. I was so happy to finally meet him after By Blood Oath Bound. What a wild and heartfelt character.
The plot in Through Fire Redeemed had me biting my nails and wondering how everything would play out. I am so glad that I reread Stolen Thorn Bride and the first two Night Elves novels before going into this story. The novella helped me understand a couple of things toward the end of the book but it’s not absolutely necessary to understand what’s going on. I so, so hope to see more of a certain character that I was really sad about. Pretty please 🥺 Overall, I adored this story!
Thank you to Kenley Davidson for an ARC of Through Fire Redeemed! All opinions are my own.
No-Spice Rating: 1.5 (light kissing)
Language: one instance of @ss
Faith-Elements: None
Review of advance copy received from Author
I can't express enough how much I loved this book! Xavi and Ryn are the kinds of characters that I love to root for! And with each plot twist, Ryn's stubborn optimism and Xavi 's fierce protectiveness only cement how much I adore the two. I truly liked the idea of a curse and the chosen bride that might be about to break that curse. The twists within the curse are fantastic and I love how Ryn's academic nature is actually how so much of the curse gets exposed. And Xavi is honestly a surprise from the other Night Elves that were in the past two books. Yes, he's got the fierce protectiveness, and steadfast loyalty that were more or less present in the other Night Elves, but there're a few surprises lurking in the background with the more mysterious Xavi that makes his character arc one that is so satisfying. I also loved the humor that was woven throughout so brilliantly. Especially in those moments where it's completely unexpected, but perfectly timed. I really loved how important friendship meant to both of them because they've both had so few of them, so they treasured that friendship all the more. And while I'm sad this is the last book in the series, it was definitely a good way to end it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kenley Davidson always delivers gritty, imaginative stories with characters you can’t help but fall in love with as they face seemingly impossible odds, and Through Fire Redeemed is no exception. Ryn and Xavi have already etched themselves into my heart. Ryn’s insatiable curiosity, love of words, and struggle to fit into a world that doesn’t always appreciate her for who she is resonated with me so deeply; I think her boldness and love of who she is will comfort and inspire those who are still on the journey of becoming who they’re meant to be. And what’s not to love about Xavi, an honorable warrior who’s literally legend? His loyalty, fierce protectiveness, encouragement of Ryn, and even his adorable misunderstandings of human life push him to the top of my favorite MMCs. I love the way Kenley highlights the beauty of true friendship, especially when it’s not easy. I could go on and on about how much I love this book, but I think you’ll understand once you read it too.
Another fantastic tale. Thank you, Kenley, for creating worlds, stories, and characters that stay with me. Heart🤍
🗡️ I received this book from the author but wasn’t required to post a review. I’m sharing because I love the story. 🗡️
Another fantastic tale. Thank you, Kenley, for creating worlds, stories, and characters that stay with me. Heart🤍
🗡️ I received this book from the author but wasn’t required to post a review. I’m sharing because I love the story. 🗡️
October 2, 2026
Kenley Davidson is a delightful storyteller and I am always on the look out for her next book release! Her Night Elves were one of my favorites of her creations, and I was thrilled to find out there was a new book with them! I received an ARC of Through Fire Redeemed and I am happy to review it with my own thoughts.
Camryn is a new type of heroine in this series. She’s a scholar, but she has a tenacity that drives her to leave her books behind and stake her life on her research. She didn’t worry about being a physical badass, as she knew her main weapon was her mind and she wielded it again and again throughout the book. This type of heroine was a breath of fresh air!
It was fun to get to know the real Xaviel throughout this book! He seemed to implicitly believe in Camryn from the start and I do enjoy a supportive hero. I was glued to the pages as they figured out how to work together to overcome the trials and claw their way back to freedom.
I thoroughly enjoyed Davidson’s extensive world building and the vivid action sequences throughout this book. The story was definitely action packed!
I highly recommend Through Fire Redeemed as a thrilling read that keeps the reader wholly entertained. I can’t wait for the next installment in this world!
Camryn is a new type of heroine in this series. She’s a scholar, but she has a tenacity that drives her to leave her books behind and stake her life on her research. She didn’t worry about being a physical badass, as she knew her main weapon was her mind and she wielded it again and again throughout the book. This type of heroine was a breath of fresh air!
It was fun to get to know the real Xaviel throughout this book! He seemed to implicitly believe in Camryn from the start and I do enjoy a supportive hero. I was glued to the pages as they figured out how to work together to overcome the trials and claw their way back to freedom.
I thoroughly enjoyed Davidson’s extensive world building and the vivid action sequences throughout this book. The story was definitely action packed!
I highly recommend Through Fire Redeemed as a thrilling read that keeps the reader wholly entertained. I can’t wait for the next installment in this world!
September 23, 2026
Kenley has done it again! I just love her style of writing. She really gets into the characters head and uses words that always makes me think. This book is a stand alone but I would recommend reading the other books In the legends of Abreia series. The MMC references a previous book and I think it helps you understand the world better. I would say the first half the book is less about the romance and more about understanding the mystery. Without giving too much away the book is a sort of jigsaw puzzle or riddle the characters need to solve. The romance is definitely a slow burn that you know is coming, but doesn’t reveal itself until the second half. I actually think Xavi is my favorite character. Usually I’m rooting for the FMC but there’s just something about him that makes me want to see him get his happy ending. I was impressed by how the problem was resolved and the cleverness the author had to have to work everything out. If you love a slow burn fantasy with mystery built in, this one is for you.
*I received an ARC copy from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
*I received an ARC copy from the author, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Kenley Davidson’s books, and I have been WAITING for this one! While these books are standalones, I have been anxiously awaiting the chance to return to the Night Elves of Abreia, and “Through Fire Redeemed” did not disappoint.
Ryn is such a fun heroine. She is smart, likable and funny, and I loved watching her slowly break through Xaviel’s angry, brooding exterior. Their developing relationship was easily my favorite part of the book. The banter between the two of them was so much fun, and I loved watching their relationship change as they got to know one another.
I also really enjoyed getting back into the Night Elf lore and trying to unravel the mystery of the curse. There are so many twists and turns, and the truth about the curse and how it actually worked kept me guessing throughout the book. I felt like I was right there with Ryn, trying to put all the pieces together and figure out what was really going on.
Kenley’s writing is always five stars for me, and this one is no exception. I highly recommend “Through Fire Redeemed,” and really, any of her books!
Ryn is such a fun heroine. She is smart, likable and funny, and I loved watching her slowly break through Xaviel’s angry, brooding exterior. Their developing relationship was easily my favorite part of the book. The banter between the two of them was so much fun, and I loved watching their relationship change as they got to know one another.
I also really enjoyed getting back into the Night Elf lore and trying to unravel the mystery of the curse. There are so many twists and turns, and the truth about the curse and how it actually worked kept me guessing throughout the book. I felt like I was right there with Ryn, trying to put all the pieces together and figure out what was really going on.
Kenley’s writing is always five stars for me, and this one is no exception. I highly recommend “Through Fire Redeemed,” and really, any of her books!
September 27, 2026
This is by far one of my favorite series and authors on KU. One day I’d like to own everything in physical copies. For now I’ll settle for devouring them as fast as possible as soon as they hit KU.
Through Fire Redeemed was as fun as it was emotional. Our two main characters have their own histories they need to work through while working together. Ryn and Xavi made an excellent team. I adore that they were always open and honest with each other, even when it was difficult. They didn’t fall trap to a miscommunication trope. They just needed time to figure out their own thoughts and feelings. Time to work through a malicious curse and protect each other. I genuinely adored this addition to the Abreia world. The fae villain was pretty interesting and her dynamic and history with the king of the mists could have been its own story. So intricate and devastating.
I’m slightly hopeful we haven’t seen the last of Kel. I mean, you never know, right?
As always, cannot wait for Davidson’s next book!
Through Fire Redeemed was as fun as it was emotional. Our two main characters have their own histories they need to work through while working together. Ryn and Xavi made an excellent team. I adore that they were always open and honest with each other, even when it was difficult. They didn’t fall trap to a miscommunication trope. They just needed time to figure out their own thoughts and feelings. Time to work through a malicious curse and protect each other. I genuinely adored this addition to the Abreia world. The fae villain was pretty interesting and her dynamic and history with the king of the mists could have been its own story. So intricate and devastating.
I’m slightly hopeful we haven’t seen the last of Kel. I mean, you never know, right?
As always, cannot wait for Davidson’s next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Through Fire Redeemed hooked me from the start with the mysterious prologue and then had me rooting for the curious FMC as she faces the injustice of sneering men who are afraid of an intelligent woman! This book features fantasy elements that I love: a quest to break a fae curse, deadly trials, monsters and a broody, shapeshifter MMC. It’s a standalone with no explicit scenes or language and the pacing is just right - no rushing this slow-burn romance! And I’m so glad we got Lesh’s story! I desperately wanted it when he was first introduced in the previous connected standalone, By Blood Oath Bound!
If you love fantasy, mysterious curses, deadly trials, and slow-burn romance, definitely add this one to your TBR! And the special editions are seriously gorgeous - be sure to check them out!
I received this ebook for free as an ARC reader but my review and opinion are my own. (I also bought the special edition!)
If you love fantasy, mysterious curses, deadly trials, and slow-burn romance, definitely add this one to your TBR! And the special editions are seriously gorgeous - be sure to check them out!
I received this ebook for free as an ARC reader but my review and opinion are my own. (I also bought the special edition!)
September 26, 2026
"It was a love she could have never written for herself, or even dated to imagine. More strange than myth, more impossible than legend. But true all the same."
A strong conclusion to an amazing trilogy! This is my favorite of the bunch. Kenley did such a good job marrying romance, humor, and adventure. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next! It's rare for me to feel completely blindsided by a plot, and I felt like there were surprises at every turn.
My favorite part was the beautiful theme of hope being woven into the story. How hope can sometimes feel painful or like a double-edged sword when you've had it deferred for so long. I loved reading about Ryn helping Xavi learn to hope and make room for joy in their lives.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Fantasy Romance
Twisty Fae Curses
Opposites Attract
Quirky FMCs
Star-Crossed Lovers
*Thank you so much to Kenley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own!
A strong conclusion to an amazing trilogy! This is my favorite of the bunch. Kenley did such a good job marrying romance, humor, and adventure. I couldn't wait to find out what would happen next! It's rare for me to feel completely blindsided by a plot, and I felt like there were surprises at every turn.
My favorite part was the beautiful theme of hope being woven into the story. How hope can sometimes feel painful or like a double-edged sword when you've had it deferred for so long. I loved reading about Ryn helping Xavi learn to hope and make room for joy in their lives.
5/5 Stars
Read if you enjoy:
Fantasy Romance
Twisty Fae Curses
Opposites Attract
Quirky FMCs
Star-Crossed Lovers
*Thank you so much to Kenley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own!
September 29, 2026
The scholar and the Immortal—5 stars.
As a scholar, Ryn is a different kind of person than Xavi is used to, and she gives him a run for his money. She doesn’t react to him and his animal forms the way he expects, nor does she act to new and unusual situations as he expects. She never actually says she will marry the King, but she uses her knowledge to try to figure out the parameters of the curse and possible cures. Xavi is extremely loyal to his King, to the point where he would give his life to protect his King. He protects Ryn because he thinks he is protecting her for his King. I had to chuckle as Xavi tried to maneuver through situations, customs, and language idioms which were new to him. So of course, things don’t turn out the way he expects. I was sad about Kel, and hope that maybe he will show up again. We didn’t really get to know very much about him, and he seemed like a fascinating character. I received an ARC copy from the author.
As a scholar, Ryn is a different kind of person than Xavi is used to, and she gives him a run for his money. She doesn’t react to him and his animal forms the way he expects, nor does she act to new and unusual situations as he expects. She never actually says she will marry the King, but she uses her knowledge to try to figure out the parameters of the curse and possible cures. Xavi is extremely loyal to his King, to the point where he would give his life to protect his King. He protects Ryn because he thinks he is protecting her for his King. I had to chuckle as Xavi tried to maneuver through situations, customs, and language idioms which were new to him. So of course, things don’t turn out the way he expects. I was sad about Kel, and hope that maybe he will show up again. We didn’t really get to know very much about him, and he seemed like a fascinating character. I received an ARC copy from the author.
October 1, 2026
Kenley Davidson writes fantasy novels that you want to devour. She delivers the perfect blend of otherworldliness, magic, and banter, with amazing romantic fantasy as the story’s backbone. This is a perfect addition to the series, and I just didn’t want this one to end! I really hope Kel gets a story, and this world is not ending! love the world of Abreia, especially the dynamics between elves and humans, and the theme of magic. Ryn is such a strong heroine. I loved her bookishness, curiosity, and kindness. She and Xavi are both honorable and loyal, even though both have been through some tough challenges. I loved the journey to break the curse, and how they worked together to support each other and take care of each other. Xavi is a flawed hero, but tough, damaged, and deserving of love. I devoured this book, just couldn’t put it down! I am so excited for this series, and can’t wait for more. I was given an advance copy of the book, but all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book takes us again to the lands of Abreia in a totally different way. We meet Ryn, a human who wants so badly to be a professor and follow in her father's footsteps who is not believed, deemed a fanciful woman by the university. Then there's Xavi, a night elf shifter who has committed his life to breaking a curse that befell King Kel and his lands. Ryn goes off on an adventure to prove her thoughts, is abandoned by her mercenary guides and then meets Xavi. I love how the book is told in linear fashion and how Ryn sticks to her opinions. There's a lot of action in their trials, and some ghastly creatures. I soon formed a hypothesis as to why a fae cast the curse in the first place and was proven right! This is another of Kenley's beautifully written books that show so much more than just a storyline. A must read!
September 23, 2026
I absolutely love all of Kenley Davidson's book series but this one was like the other two where the FMC (Female Main character) is facing so much trials and opposition, but she has a good heart. I just wanted her to succeed in simply finding the place her father told her about when she was 8 years old and has worked for so long.
This book had some twists I didn't see and loved even more when seeing why the storyline went that way.
I laughed and gasped out loud with astonishment of Ryn's boldness in the face of some dangerous situations. As well as, Xavi putting up with her silly actions at the beginning. I am so glad I got to read the other book in this series first and her other series as there are some mentions to characters.
But a reader doesn't necessarily need to read all others to enjoy this story.
Definitely should be on your TBR list!
This book had some twists I didn't see and loved even more when seeing why the storyline went that way.
I laughed and gasped out loud with astonishment of Ryn's boldness in the face of some dangerous situations. As well as, Xavi putting up with her silly actions at the beginning. I am so glad I got to read the other book in this series first and her other series as there are some mentions to characters.
But a reader doesn't necessarily need to read all others to enjoy this story.
Definitely should be on your TBR list!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Even if I’m mostly off what readers are calling romantasy, I will still read it written by authors I like including this latest book by an author I adore. Being immediately engaged, I knew I was going to enjoy this book. We are introduced to Ryn and Xavi who are complete opposites in some way. I loved Ryn and her scholarly ways, and how Xavi is quiet and protective of those he feels loyal to. After reading for a while, I thought I had figured out how everything was going to shake out. However, even if I was wrong about part of it, I was way off on another which I love. I quite enjoyed this, and I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
September 12, 2026
This book is a delight to read right from the first chapter. The plot is an engaging ride full of turns that will keep you guessing what will happen next and fully engrossed in finding out. The characters are well crafted and their interactions as they move from strangers to friends to more are constantly delightful with some great banter. All the previous books in the Night Elves series and the Legends of Abreia series have been brilliant, but in my opinion this is definately the best of them all. It works well as a stand alone for those who haven't read anything else set in this world, although it does leave you craving for more.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
September 25, 2026
❤️Omgg I love them so much. The whole series is a chef's kiss❣️❣️and KD had delivered the best ❤️🔥❤️🔥. Xavi and Ryn ,both captivated me from the first page till the end . And I love our female MC , she is smart,kind, thoughtful and pursues her dream . And our male MC is a grumpy night elf(not a night elf) who is loyal, cute(to our Female MC) and what not. TBH I don't want this to end .I have been reading KD's books when I first came across Faceless Mage and I fell in love with Abreia and my favorite characters Kyrion and Leisa. And now I don't know what I am going to do without them. I guess it's time to reread them 😌😌
To those who haven't read other books of KD's, you are missing something that u won't know until you read it😜😜
💕💕
To those who haven't read other books of KD's, you are missing something that u won't know until you read it😜😜
💕💕
September 22, 2026
Honestly a great read and I'm glad that we got this series!
I didn't do a reread before hand (which would have made it easier to remember all that characters) but as I kept reading it soon came back to me.
Loved their banter and their story - it was a bit heartbreaking in some areas and a little dark too but I thoroughly enjoyed every moment (I managed to last 1.5 days to finish ) I could have easily demolished this in a day!!!!
I'm off to start at the beginning again cause I loved every couple in this series... I know it's probably not ...we'll maybe ...but I definitely would like to know if a certain character survived and if he's getting a story ... please!!!!
I didn't do a reread before hand (which would have made it easier to remember all that characters) but as I kept reading it soon came back to me.
Loved their banter and their story - it was a bit heartbreaking in some areas and a little dark too but I thoroughly enjoyed every moment (I managed to last 1.5 days to finish ) I could have easily demolished this in a day!!!!
I'm off to start at the beginning again cause I loved every couple in this series... I know it's probably not ...we'll maybe ...but I definitely would like to know if a certain character survived and if he's getting a story ... please!!!!
September 22, 2026
Oh my goodness. This book was everything- heart breaking, hilarious, swoony, thought provoking. The best grumpy sunshine, and she was so snarky. Ryn is a scholar out to prove she's not a liar. Xavi is a cursed warrior, doomed to repeat history year after year after year to save the life of a man that is like a brother to him. I loved watching her wear him down. I loved watching her so joyfully pursue her answers. I loved watching him learn to come alive. This was just great.
🤬 - none
⚔️ - Fantasy violence, death, self sacrifice
🌶️ - some kisses
🫣 - a family that means well, but...yeah, cruel revelations, sacrifice, kind of bipolar?
🤬 - none
⚔️ - Fantasy violence, death, self sacrifice
🌶️ - some kisses
🫣 - a family that means well, but...yeah, cruel revelations, sacrifice, kind of bipolar?
September 26, 2026
Unexpected in so Many Ways
She’s a myth-specialist on a mission to prove her father wasn’t crazy. He’s an immortal who is bound to keep a curse at bay.
But when things are not what they seem, the curse maker sends this unlikely pair into trials. Her motives are skewed, and their emotions become more than anyone bargained for.
Ryn’s quirks were adorable, and she proves smart women can be as heroic as the physically strong ones. Xavi has an unexpected sense of sarcastic humor that made me laugh out loud several times.
I enjoyed this entire series, but this was my favorite. Saving the best for last? Indeed.
She’s a myth-specialist on a mission to prove her father wasn’t crazy. He’s an immortal who is bound to keep a curse at bay.
But when things are not what they seem, the curse maker sends this unlikely pair into trials. Her motives are skewed, and their emotions become more than anyone bargained for.
Ryn’s quirks were adorable, and she proves smart women can be as heroic as the physically strong ones. Xavi has an unexpected sense of sarcastic humor that made me laugh out loud several times.
I enjoyed this entire series, but this was my favorite. Saving the best for last? Indeed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Night elves are always scary as they can change forms but Xavi is more and I was surprised about what he can change into! Ryn is a scholar who has studied all the legends, a girl who can tell you all about the stories and how they end. Between the two they need to save Xavi’s king and break the curse. Loved the dynamic between the two and the magic! Another great tale in Dunmarin and a cause worth fighting for.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Book 3 in the Night Elves of Abreia series
I loved the slow burn romance that starts with an unlikely friendship mixed among the action and trials. It's a story of staying true to your word and persevering no matter the cost. Never lose hope.
“Stories give a voice to our deepest selves, and tell us about something real in a way that everyone can understand.”
I loved the slow burn romance that starts with an unlikely friendship mixed among the action and trials. It's a story of staying true to your word and persevering no matter the cost. Never lose hope.
“Stories give a voice to our deepest selves, and tell us about something real in a way that everyone can understand.”
September 23, 2026
Epic story
First of all despite being book 3, it can easily be read as a standalone. I loved the characters especially Ryn and her determination to prove her father's discovery was truly real and that 'stories' matter. I loved Xavi's loyalty to his friend and king. What started out as a simple journey becomes an epic battle against evil with many twists and turns.
First of all despite being book 3, it can easily be read as a standalone. I loved the characters especially Ryn and her determination to prove her father's discovery was truly real and that 'stories' matter. I loved Xavi's loyalty to his friend and king. What started out as a simple journey becomes an epic battle against evil with many twists and turns.
September 23, 2026
Kenley Davidson is one of my favorite no spice authors and I really enjoy her Night Elves Series.
While I did enjoy the whole book, the FMC Ryn shines. I love that we have a smart, resourceful and bookish FMC. She uses logic (probably when she should be running) and her curiosity just pulls you in as a reader.
HEA approved.
While I did enjoy the whole book, the FMC Ryn shines. I love that we have a smart, resourceful and bookish FMC. She uses logic (probably when she should be running) and her curiosity just pulls you in as a reader.
HEA approved.
September 25, 2026
Kenley's books always deliver the most in-depth characters dealing with struggles that can only be resolved by going through trials, be they physical or mental. Through Fire Redeemed was a beautiful and fitting end to the Night Elf series, though I do wish there could be more. Never yet disappointed by a Kenley Davidson novel!
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