What do you think?
Sacrifice and Salvation: a steamy fae fantasy romance novel
She can save the world… if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart.
Ayla wants nothing to do with the throne. Her sole aim is to uncover her father’s secrets and return to Zayne, yet power beckons. In accepting the throne, she could stop the war her father is fueling—if she forsakes Zayne.
Zayne is a monster. The necromantic magic he’s embracing to aid Ayla is slowly corrupting him. But when the woman he loves is chosen by the Starlit throne, the power he wields pulls them apart.
As Ayla works to thwart her father and Zayne reckons with the person he’s become, they face a dire decision. Starlight and shadows were never meant to mix. With war on the horizon, Ayla and Zayne know they must sacrifice for the power to stop it, but is saving the world worth losing each other?
Sacrifice and Salvation is the epic conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love tortured heroes, court intrigue, and star-crossed lovers, give into temptation and read Sacrifice and Salvation.
Ayla wants nothing to do with the throne. Her sole aim is to uncover her father’s secrets and return to Zayne, yet power beckons. In accepting the throne, she could stop the war her father is fueling—if she forsakes Zayne.
Zayne is a monster. The necromantic magic he’s embracing to aid Ayla is slowly corrupting him. But when the woman he loves is chosen by the Starlit throne, the power he wields pulls them apart.
As Ayla works to thwart her father and Zayne reckons with the person he’s become, they face a dire decision. Starlight and shadows were never meant to mix. With war on the horizon, Ayla and Zayne know they must sacrifice for the power to stop it, but is saving the world worth losing each other?
Sacrifice and Salvation is the epic conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love tortured heroes, court intrigue, and star-crossed lovers, give into temptation and read Sacrifice and Salvation.
295 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2026
About the author
Mel Braxton
16 books83 followersMel doesn't know what to do with reality, so she daydreams of fantastical places. With strong heroines, thrilling plots, and toe-curling romance, she captivates readers with her storytelling. She loves her family, especially Lulu the dog, who mistakenly believes Mel’s job is to be a professional puppy cuddler.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
August 6, 2026
Sacrifice and Salvation brings the Bound by Thrones trilogy to an emotional conclusion, with plenty of fae politics, dangerous magic, romance, and high-stakes choices. Ayla and Zayne remain at the heart of the story, and I appreciated how much their relationship is tested as they face conflicting responsibilities and increasingly difficult sacrifices.
Zayne’s struggle with necromantic power adds a darker layer to the book, while Ayla’s connection to the throne forces her to consider what she is willing to give up for the people she wants to protect. The tension between love, power, family, and duty creates some genuinely emotional moments.
However, the pacing felt uneven for me, and some plot developments and character arcs could have used more space to fully land. I also wanted a little more depth in the worldbuilding and political conflict, especially for a concluding volume.
Overall, this was a dramatic and emotional finale with tortured characters, forbidden romance, and plenty of magical danger. It had some strong moments, but it didn’t completely deliver the impact I was hoping for.
Zayne’s struggle with necromantic power adds a darker layer to the book, while Ayla’s connection to the throne forces her to consider what she is willing to give up for the people she wants to protect. The tension between love, power, family, and duty creates some genuinely emotional moments.
However, the pacing felt uneven for me, and some plot developments and character arcs could have used more space to fully land. I also wanted a little more depth in the worldbuilding and political conflict, especially for a concluding volume.
Overall, this was a dramatic and emotional finale with tortured characters, forbidden romance, and plenty of magical danger. It had some strong moments, but it didn’t completely deliver the impact I was hoping for.
August 9, 2026
A solid conclusion to a fun, short trilogy. The pacing still stumbles in places for me. Characters traveling or plot devices appearing at exactly the right moment in ways that feel a little convenient and pull me out of the story. But honestly, it's much improved from the first book and the series ends on a satisfying note.
I skipped the spice again entirely. It still feels out of place in a series that reads more young adult (in my opinion) than adult in its overall tone.
What I appreciated most is that Ninti's relationship with Ayla gets just as much weight in places as her relationship with Zayne, which felt right given their history. All of the characters get a satisfying conclusion and almost all get a happy ending.
Fun, quick, and a pretty good palate cleanser trilogy.
Thanks to the author and Behind the Pages PA for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
I skipped the spice again entirely. It still feels out of place in a series that reads more young adult (in my opinion) than adult in its overall tone.
What I appreciated most is that Ninti's relationship with Ayla gets just as much weight in places as her relationship with Zayne, which felt right given their history. All of the characters get a satisfying conclusion and almost all get a happy ending.
Fun, quick, and a pretty good palate cleanser trilogy.
Thanks to the author and Behind the Pages PA for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
September 1, 2026
4 Stars 💫
Thank you, Behind the Pages PA, for the ARC! 🧡
Ahh! Getting to dive into the epic, beautiful, conclusion of the trilogy was a wonderful time! Between Ninti, her pups, a rising war, and an intensity that kept me invested, this was a fun read! Despite all the odds stacked against Ayla and Zayne, they found a way, through hard work and determination even when it was hard, to be together. It's amazing, really. This quick, fast-paced, spice fantasy romance series is one that I had a lot of fun getting to explore as we followed the characters' adventures together! Would recommend!<3
Thank you, Behind the Pages PA, for the ARC! 🧡
Ahh! Getting to dive into the epic, beautiful, conclusion of the trilogy was a wonderful time! Between Ninti, her pups, a rising war, and an intensity that kept me invested, this was a fun read! Despite all the odds stacked against Ayla and Zayne, they found a way, through hard work and determination even when it was hard, to be together. It's amazing, really. This quick, fast-paced, spice fantasy romance series is one that I had a lot of fun getting to explore as we followed the characters' adventures together! Would recommend!<3
August 6, 2026
This book is aptly called Sacrifice and Salvation, because, my word, the sacrifice Zayne made and makes for Ayla, threatened to tear me apart! A revelation of a prior sacrifice, blew my mind, completely! Ms Braxton duped me over and over again with this series, just as I had it all figured out, she whacked me again. I had no idea where she would take me.... While I was expecting twists, I had no idea how much she'd change the path I was on, flinging me from one WTF moment to the next. But it's the last third of the book that the author, well and truly, amazed, horrified and delighted me the most. Intense doesn't even begin to describe it. And these words? Yes, Ayla and Zayne proved, unequivocally, 'There was no greater salve than love.' Their love, their commitment to each other, eclipses all else....
Love propels Zayne to embrace his necromancy and all the perils attached to his powers, as a changed Zayne emerges, finally, from the underworld. With Zayne having played and still playing the villain, all for his love for Ayla, for his sister, for his people, all he sees is the vileness of what he is, he can't see the goodness in himself. And he IS good, and kind, and caring, and nothing as the reputation that follows him. His entire existence has been as the insignificant one, one of support but not of value. Or so he thinks. I wanted to cry at his situation, at how worthless he feels, at how afraid he is that he IS evil. When he tells Ayla “I was never meant to be essential. Not to Eleanor. Not to you.” frek, my heart bled. My poor heart leaked in pain, extreme anguish shadowed me until almost the very end.
His mission was a huge success but the effects, well, not so much. Where gods and deities are involved, the outcome isn't guaranteed. Hell, these deities are manipulative, they follow an agenda only known to them and anyone caught in their crossfire is propelled, dragged along, lost in the demands of the deities. But the deities selfishness is nothing compared to some the mortals, namely Ayla's father and step father. Their agenda reeks more than the odious suphar emanating from Teyr's magma. Where the author took this next, I swear you could see my heart pounding in my chest.
Ayla is so considerate, so understanding and not demanding, of neither Zayne nor Ninti. There is much she would love to know, much that burrows under her skin like a thorn, sharp and painful, yet she keeps her council. She accepts. She doesn't judge. She loves. She does the right thing, she even overcomes her mistrust for certain individuals. That's how big her heart is. What an incredible character she is! So forgiving too. When she read a letter, penned by the woman who'd made her life a living hell, I sobbed with Ayla. The love her mother had for Ayla is so evident, I was gutted for what her mother was forced to do to her, for her. But Ayla has support, all her friends rally around her, her allies by her side, together facing, coming to grips with the changing temperament around her, Ayla faces more challenges than simply stopping a war. Good glory, the lies, the deceit, the betrayals and the revelations hit her hard!
As to the supporting cast, I loved seeing a Ninti's POV, the author immaculately fusing Ninti's fox/dog and deity persona superbly. All the characters are well rounded, immensely relatable and so likeable. I loved that Rhett and Iona, Vanessa and Jasmine, got their hearts desire. Ms Braxton really took me on a rollercoaster ride, the highs and lows so pronounced, I wasn't sure where I'd end up next! But oh my heck! Halfway through the book, I literally jolted upright from an unexpected event. I sure as all stars did not see that coming! A brilliant conclusion to this series! Through internal strife, to insecurities, to nefarious motives, to gorgeous found family and s fabulous HEA, this book and series captivated me from start to finish.
Love propels Zayne to embrace his necromancy and all the perils attached to his powers, as a changed Zayne emerges, finally, from the underworld. With Zayne having played and still playing the villain, all for his love for Ayla, for his sister, for his people, all he sees is the vileness of what he is, he can't see the goodness in himself. And he IS good, and kind, and caring, and nothing as the reputation that follows him. His entire existence has been as the insignificant one, one of support but not of value. Or so he thinks. I wanted to cry at his situation, at how worthless he feels, at how afraid he is that he IS evil. When he tells Ayla “I was never meant to be essential. Not to Eleanor. Not to you.” frek, my heart bled. My poor heart leaked in pain, extreme anguish shadowed me until almost the very end.
His mission was a huge success but the effects, well, not so much. Where gods and deities are involved, the outcome isn't guaranteed. Hell, these deities are manipulative, they follow an agenda only known to them and anyone caught in their crossfire is propelled, dragged along, lost in the demands of the deities. But the deities selfishness is nothing compared to some the mortals, namely Ayla's father and step father. Their agenda reeks more than the odious suphar emanating from Teyr's magma. Where the author took this next, I swear you could see my heart pounding in my chest.
Ayla is so considerate, so understanding and not demanding, of neither Zayne nor Ninti. There is much she would love to know, much that burrows under her skin like a thorn, sharp and painful, yet she keeps her council. She accepts. She doesn't judge. She loves. She does the right thing, she even overcomes her mistrust for certain individuals. That's how big her heart is. What an incredible character she is! So forgiving too. When she read a letter, penned by the woman who'd made her life a living hell, I sobbed with Ayla. The love her mother had for Ayla is so evident, I was gutted for what her mother was forced to do to her, for her. But Ayla has support, all her friends rally around her, her allies by her side, together facing, coming to grips with the changing temperament around her, Ayla faces more challenges than simply stopping a war. Good glory, the lies, the deceit, the betrayals and the revelations hit her hard!
As to the supporting cast, I loved seeing a Ninti's POV, the author immaculately fusing Ninti's fox/dog and deity persona superbly. All the characters are well rounded, immensely relatable and so likeable. I loved that Rhett and Iona, Vanessa and Jasmine, got their hearts desire. Ms Braxton really took me on a rollercoaster ride, the highs and lows so pronounced, I wasn't sure where I'd end up next! But oh my heck! Halfway through the book, I literally jolted upright from an unexpected event. I sure as all stars did not see that coming! A brilliant conclusion to this series! Through internal strife, to insecurities, to nefarious motives, to gorgeous found family and s fabulous HEA, this book and series captivated me from start to finish.
July 17, 2026
Sacrifice and Salvation was an emotional and action-packed conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy. 🌙⚔️ From the very first chapter, the stakes were higher than ever, and I found myself turning page after page just to see how Ayla and Zayne’s journey would end.
After everything they had endured, Ayla was faced with an impossible choice. She wanted nothing more than to uncover her father’s secrets and return to Zayne, but accepting the Starlit throne could be the only way to stop a devastating war. Meanwhile, Zayne continued to embrace dangerous necromantic magic in order to protect the woman he loved, even as it slowly changed him into someone he barely recognized. As war loomed closer and fate seemed determined to keep them apart, both of them were forced to decide just how much they were willing to sacrifice to save their world. 💔✨
This book was filled with tension, heartbreak, and revelation after revelation. 😭 Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, another secret came to light or another impossible choice stood in Ayla and Zayne’s way. The emotional weight of their journey kept me invested until the very last page.
The relationship between Ayla and Zayne continued to be my favorite part of the trilogy. ❤️ Their love was tested in every possible way, yet the bond they had built over three books remained incredibly strong. Their moments together were heartfelt, emotional, and often bittersweet. I honestly kept wanting more of them because they were simply so easy to root for.
I also enjoyed seeing all the threads from the previous books come together. 🌌 The political intrigue, magical conflicts, family secrets, and the looming war finally reached their climax, making this feel like a true finale. Watching long-running mysteries unfold and seeing characters step into the people they were meant to become was satisfying.
That said, I did feel like so much happened in such a short amount of time. 📖 The story rarely slowed down, and while the constant action kept me reading, some emotional moments and major revelations passed by so quickly that I wished they had been explored in more depth. I wanted a little more time to truly sit with everything before moving on to the next big event.
Overall, I still enjoyed this finale for everything it had to offer. 💜 It delivered plenty of emotion, exciting twists, and satisfying character growth while bringing Ayla and Zayne’s story to a close. Saying goodbye to these characters wasn’t easy, and I’m glad I got to experience their journey from beginning to end.
Perfect for readers who love:
🌙 Star-crossed lovers
🖤 Tortured, morally gray hero
✨ Starlight & shadow magic
⚔️ Epic fantasy battles
👑 Court intrigue & political fantasy
💀 Necromancy
❤️ Soul-deep romance
💔 Sacrifice for love
🔥 High emotional stakes
🌍 Saving the world together
🤝 Found family
📚 Completed fantasy trilogy
Thank you so much to Mel Braxton and Behind The Pages for the ARC opportunity. 💕 I’m grateful I had the chance to follow Ayla and Zayne’s journey from beginning to the end.
After everything they had endured, Ayla was faced with an impossible choice. She wanted nothing more than to uncover her father’s secrets and return to Zayne, but accepting the Starlit throne could be the only way to stop a devastating war. Meanwhile, Zayne continued to embrace dangerous necromantic magic in order to protect the woman he loved, even as it slowly changed him into someone he barely recognized. As war loomed closer and fate seemed determined to keep them apart, both of them were forced to decide just how much they were willing to sacrifice to save their world. 💔✨
This book was filled with tension, heartbreak, and revelation after revelation. 😭 Every time I thought I knew where the story was heading, another secret came to light or another impossible choice stood in Ayla and Zayne’s way. The emotional weight of their journey kept me invested until the very last page.
The relationship between Ayla and Zayne continued to be my favorite part of the trilogy. ❤️ Their love was tested in every possible way, yet the bond they had built over three books remained incredibly strong. Their moments together were heartfelt, emotional, and often bittersweet. I honestly kept wanting more of them because they were simply so easy to root for.
I also enjoyed seeing all the threads from the previous books come together. 🌌 The political intrigue, magical conflicts, family secrets, and the looming war finally reached their climax, making this feel like a true finale. Watching long-running mysteries unfold and seeing characters step into the people they were meant to become was satisfying.
That said, I did feel like so much happened in such a short amount of time. 📖 The story rarely slowed down, and while the constant action kept me reading, some emotional moments and major revelations passed by so quickly that I wished they had been explored in more depth. I wanted a little more time to truly sit with everything before moving on to the next big event.
Overall, I still enjoyed this finale for everything it had to offer. 💜 It delivered plenty of emotion, exciting twists, and satisfying character growth while bringing Ayla and Zayne’s story to a close. Saying goodbye to these characters wasn’t easy, and I’m glad I got to experience their journey from beginning to end.
Perfect for readers who love:
🌙 Star-crossed lovers
🖤 Tortured, morally gray hero
✨ Starlight & shadow magic
⚔️ Epic fantasy battles
👑 Court intrigue & political fantasy
💀 Necromancy
❤️ Soul-deep romance
💔 Sacrifice for love
🔥 High emotional stakes
🌍 Saving the world together
🤝 Found family
📚 Completed fantasy trilogy
Thank you so much to Mel Braxton and Behind The Pages for the ARC opportunity. 💕 I’m grateful I had the chance to follow Ayla and Zayne’s journey from beginning to the end.
August 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Bound by Thrones is officially completed! Mel Braxton brings us the final book in the trilogy, Sacrifice and Salvation. What a conclusion to this fantasy romance, an ending that readers have been wanting for some time, yet also having to say goodbye to these characters brings a bittersweet. Mel has created a world that is intriguing, beautiful, and challenging all at once. The world building through the entire series is spectacular and fully immerses you in our MCs journey.
This entire series has been filled with epic adventure, all consuming romance, and hard choices. Zayne will do anything for Ayla, even becoming the villain for her, to ensure she is kept safe. Ayla constantly struggles with following her heart or following her duty. Their romance fueled this entire series and is what kept me coming back for more. Mel beautifully and soul shattering captures sacrificial love with these two.
This book still kept me on my toes until the very end. Even though we know it is the last book, Mel kept readers in an emotional choke hold while she concluded this series and brought all of the character’s stories to an end. There is definitely the ability to create new stories, with new characters or turning supporting roles into main roles, within this same world, but I don’t know what Mel has planned. I would love to return to this world again, as it has truly provided everything I like seeing in a fantasy romance.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🔥Fantasy Romance
🖤Star Crossed Lovers
🔥Fiery Fae FMC
🖤Necromancer MMC
🔥Star Crossed Lovers
🖤Firewolves
🔥Court Intrigue
🖤Tortured Heroes
🔥Found Family
🖤Completed Trilogy
Bound by Thrones is officially completed! Mel Braxton brings us the final book in the trilogy, Sacrifice and Salvation. What a conclusion to this fantasy romance, an ending that readers have been wanting for some time, yet also having to say goodbye to these characters brings a bittersweet. Mel has created a world that is intriguing, beautiful, and challenging all at once. The world building through the entire series is spectacular and fully immerses you in our MCs journey.
This entire series has been filled with epic adventure, all consuming romance, and hard choices. Zayne will do anything for Ayla, even becoming the villain for her, to ensure she is kept safe. Ayla constantly struggles with following her heart or following her duty. Their romance fueled this entire series and is what kept me coming back for more. Mel beautifully and soul shattering captures sacrificial love with these two.
This book still kept me on my toes until the very end. Even though we know it is the last book, Mel kept readers in an emotional choke hold while she concluded this series and brought all of the character’s stories to an end. There is definitely the ability to create new stories, with new characters or turning supporting roles into main roles, within this same world, but I don’t know what Mel has planned. I would love to return to this world again, as it has truly provided everything I like seeing in a fantasy romance.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
🔥Fantasy Romance
🖤Star Crossed Lovers
🔥Fiery Fae FMC
🖤Necromancer MMC
🔥Star Crossed Lovers
🖤Firewolves
🔥Court Intrigue
🖤Tortured Heroes
🔥Found Family
🖤Completed Trilogy
July 24, 2026
An epic conclusion to this exciting trilogy filled with even more court politics, wars ready to be fought and even more power to be thrust upon the main characters.
You follow the FMC, having just been separated from the MMC after he made himself look like the villain so he could escape with the last of the black shards. She is now in her fathers court and is spending her time leaning from him to control her powers and prepare to one day take the throne, but in the background she’s covertly trying to discover his plans and eventually reunite with her friends and the man she loves. At the same time the MMC is doing all he can to control his new powers and the gift of the shade army that was left to him and finding a way to deal with all these black shards he now has. They must stay apart to keep their story intact of her being the victim in all this, but still work toward the same goal of avoiding a needless war.
This was a fun conclusion to the trilogy and a great way to wrap up the story while still having a few fun twists and reveals to keep things exciting. The bond between the FMC and MMC continued to grow even when they were apart and there was plenty of tension between them once they were finally back together. One of my favorite parts was seeing them work with unlikely allies to take down the kings who would see the world burn for their own power and profit and using their bonds to overcome adversity. There were plenty of emotional highs and lows as they were all put in danger multiple times that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall my rating 4.4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
You follow the FMC, having just been separated from the MMC after he made himself look like the villain so he could escape with the last of the black shards. She is now in her fathers court and is spending her time leaning from him to control her powers and prepare to one day take the throne, but in the background she’s covertly trying to discover his plans and eventually reunite with her friends and the man she loves. At the same time the MMC is doing all he can to control his new powers and the gift of the shade army that was left to him and finding a way to deal with all these black shards he now has. They must stay apart to keep their story intact of her being the victim in all this, but still work toward the same goal of avoiding a needless war.
This was a fun conclusion to the trilogy and a great way to wrap up the story while still having a few fun twists and reveals to keep things exciting. The bond between the FMC and MMC continued to grow even when they were apart and there was plenty of tension between them once they were finally back together. One of my favorite parts was seeing them work with unlikely allies to take down the kings who would see the world burn for their own power and profit and using their bonds to overcome adversity. There were plenty of emotional highs and lows as they were all put in danger multiple times that kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall my rating 4.4/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2/5 🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
❤️🔥Conclusion in a Trilogy
⚔️Epic Battles
❤️🔥Star Crossed Lovers
⚔️Political Intrigue
❤️🔥Tortured Heros
⚔️Fiery Fae FMC x Necromancer MMC
❤️🔥He Becomes a Villain for Her
⚔️Firewolves
❤️🔥Tension
⚔️Heartbreak
❤️🔥Found Family
A HUGE thank you to Behind the Pages LLC and Mel Braxton for sending over this amazing conclusion to the Bound by Thrones Trilogy. Before signing up for it, I had never read or heard of Mel, but mannn, I am FOREVER grateful for the chance to be introduced to her and her writing.
It’s safe to say that I was completely hooked by how high the stakes felt in this book as Ayla and Zayne were forced to go on to their own separate paths while trying to fight for the same goal.
Ayla was forced to decide whether claiming the Starlit throne would end up being worth sacrificing the future she wanted so badly, while Zayne had to embrace dangerous necromantic magic that continuously threatened to change who he was forever. Watching them make and live with their impossible choices, uncover secrets thought forever lost, and come together to make a stand against impending war… had me absolutely feral for every page I turned.
The gorgeous romance stayed at the heart of the story, making every sacrifice hit so hard, and the twists had me on my toes until the very last page. This was such an emotional story, with some serious action packed scenes, leading to the epic conclusion and closure that ended this series perfectly.
Again, thank you so much Behind the Pages LLC and Mel Braxton!
2/5 🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
❤️🔥Conclusion in a Trilogy
⚔️Epic Battles
❤️🔥Star Crossed Lovers
⚔️Political Intrigue
❤️🔥Tortured Heros
⚔️Fiery Fae FMC x Necromancer MMC
❤️🔥He Becomes a Villain for Her
⚔️Firewolves
❤️🔥Tension
⚔️Heartbreak
❤️🔥Found Family
A HUGE thank you to Behind the Pages LLC and Mel Braxton for sending over this amazing conclusion to the Bound by Thrones Trilogy. Before signing up for it, I had never read or heard of Mel, but mannn, I am FOREVER grateful for the chance to be introduced to her and her writing.
It’s safe to say that I was completely hooked by how high the stakes felt in this book as Ayla and Zayne were forced to go on to their own separate paths while trying to fight for the same goal.
Ayla was forced to decide whether claiming the Starlit throne would end up being worth sacrificing the future she wanted so badly, while Zayne had to embrace dangerous necromantic magic that continuously threatened to change who he was forever. Watching them make and live with their impossible choices, uncover secrets thought forever lost, and come together to make a stand against impending war… had me absolutely feral for every page I turned.
The gorgeous romance stayed at the heart of the story, making every sacrifice hit so hard, and the twists had me on my toes until the very last page. This was such an emotional story, with some serious action packed scenes, leading to the epic conclusion and closure that ended this series perfectly.
Again, thank you so much Behind the Pages LLC and Mel Braxton!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to behind the pages for this eARC!
Closing out a trilogy is never easy, but I was really happy to spend one last adventure with Ayla and Zayne. They were, without question, the highlight of this series for me. Their chemistry, the choices they had to make, and everything they fought for kept me invested the entire time.
I also liked seeing all of the little details from the earlier books finally connect. It's always satisfying when a series circles back and answers the questions it's been building toward.
For me, though, this finale struggled a bit with pacing. It felt like the story was either racing through huge moments or lingering a little too long in others. By the last portion of the book, I found my attention drifting because it felt like the journey to the ending took longer than it needed to.
This is definitely a character-focused story, which isn't a bad thing if you love spending time with the cast. I just found myself wishing there was a little more happening in the overall plot to balance it out. I also occasionally had to double-check whose chapter I was reading because the two POVs sometimes sounded a little too similar.
Even with those things, I enjoyed seeing how everything came full circle and thought the ending wrapped the trilogy up in a satisfying way. If you've already fallen in love with Ayla and Zayne, I think you'll still want to see their story through to the end.
Closing out a trilogy is never easy, but I was really happy to spend one last adventure with Ayla and Zayne. They were, without question, the highlight of this series for me. Their chemistry, the choices they had to make, and everything they fought for kept me invested the entire time.
I also liked seeing all of the little details from the earlier books finally connect. It's always satisfying when a series circles back and answers the questions it's been building toward.
For me, though, this finale struggled a bit with pacing. It felt like the story was either racing through huge moments or lingering a little too long in others. By the last portion of the book, I found my attention drifting because it felt like the journey to the ending took longer than it needed to.
This is definitely a character-focused story, which isn't a bad thing if you love spending time with the cast. I just found myself wishing there was a little more happening in the overall plot to balance it out. I also occasionally had to double-check whose chapter I was reading because the two POVs sometimes sounded a little too similar.
Even with those things, I enjoyed seeing how everything came full circle and thought the ending wrapped the trilogy up in a satisfying way. If you've already fallen in love with Ayla and Zayne, I think you'll still want to see their story through to the end.
August 10, 2026
4.25
👑 ARC Review 💫
What an epic conclusion to this trilogy! This made me smile, laugh, love and hate the decisions of the characters. When Zayne and Ayla are apart - it's just daggers of depression. But, when they're together - I don't know, it can be dangerous. Can they even be together?
There was suspense and...honestly, I think I'm still reeling from the epic conclusion. There was love and spice and this really cool struggle of power vs. selflessness.
And then there was, Ninti, my favorite firewolf. She is the coolest, best companion, there when she needs to be, comforting, strong, powerful, and a mom with the cutest set of pups! Her storyline has to be one of my favorites. I know, a firewolf, it sounds weird, but she's built of more than meets the eye.
I love Ayla and Zayne. They're so strong, yet human (ish - they're half-fae or full fae 🫣) in their weaknesses and their choice of the kingdom vs. themselves vs. their pairing.
This is another spicy one! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the third and final book in the *completed* trilogy - Bound by Thrones. All of the books total <850 pages, so this trilogy is so much shorter than many, many others I've read. Loved that! 😍
If you like power struggles, animal gods, or an FMC hero, you may like this book or if you want to read a fantasy trilogy shorter than most Brandon Sanderson books 🤣, you may like this trilogy!
Triggers: Death, Violence
👑 ARC Review 💫
What an epic conclusion to this trilogy! This made me smile, laugh, love and hate the decisions of the characters. When Zayne and Ayla are apart - it's just daggers of depression. But, when they're together - I don't know, it can be dangerous. Can they even be together?
There was suspense and...honestly, I think I'm still reeling from the epic conclusion. There was love and spice and this really cool struggle of power vs. selflessness.
And then there was, Ninti, my favorite firewolf. She is the coolest, best companion, there when she needs to be, comforting, strong, powerful, and a mom with the cutest set of pups! Her storyline has to be one of my favorites. I know, a firewolf, it sounds weird, but she's built of more than meets the eye.
I love Ayla and Zayne. They're so strong, yet human (ish - they're half-fae or full fae 🫣) in their weaknesses and their choice of the kingdom vs. themselves vs. their pairing.
This is another spicy one! 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This is the third and final book in the *completed* trilogy - Bound by Thrones. All of the books total <850 pages, so this trilogy is so much shorter than many, many others I've read. Loved that! 😍
If you like power struggles, animal gods, or an FMC hero, you may like this book or if you want to read a fantasy trilogy shorter than most Brandon Sanderson books 🤣, you may like this trilogy!
Triggers: Death, Violence
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
If your book vibe is…
⭐️ Star Crossed Lovers
🛏️ Only One Bed
❤️🔥 Firewolves
⚖️ Court Intrige
🩷 Found Family
Then Sacrifice and Salvation by Mel Braxton is for you!
Sacrifice and Salvation is the epic conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love tortured heroes, court intrigue, and star-crossed lovers, give in to temptation and read Sacrifice and Salvation.
She can save the world… if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart.
Starlight and shadows were never meant to mix. But with war on the horizon, Ayla and Zayne know they must sacrifice for the power to stop it. Is saving the world worth losing each other?
What an awesome ending to an action packed fantasy series!
I loved how immediately I was pulled into the action! Alya and Zayne are a match made in starlight and I loved reading their story!
Niniti was one of my favorite parts of this series and I couldn’t get enough of her! I need a firewolf of my own!
Mel did a great job of wrapping up the series and giving everyone the happily ever after they deserved!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
⭐️ Star Crossed Lovers
🛏️ Only One Bed
❤️🔥 Firewolves
⚖️ Court Intrige
🩷 Found Family
Then Sacrifice and Salvation by Mel Braxton is for you!
Sacrifice and Salvation is the epic conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy. If you love tortured heroes, court intrigue, and star-crossed lovers, give in to temptation and read Sacrifice and Salvation.
She can save the world… if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart.
Starlight and shadows were never meant to mix. But with war on the horizon, Ayla and Zayne know they must sacrifice for the power to stop it. Is saving the world worth losing each other?
What an awesome ending to an action packed fantasy series!
I loved how immediately I was pulled into the action! Alya and Zayne are a match made in starlight and I loved reading their story!
Niniti was one of my favorite parts of this series and I couldn’t get enough of her! I need a firewolf of my own!
Mel did a great job of wrapping up the series and giving everyone the happily ever after they deserved!
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2026
The trilogy is coming to an end, and I was looking forward to seeing how all of the story arcs would come together.
The last book left us with Ayla and Zayne being separated, and after the strong bond they formed previously, it came across very well that both of them were looking forward to being reunited.
On top of that, we have a lot of political scheming, different factions coming together for a common goal, and Ayla at the centre of it all, trying to find her place and come to terms with her powers.
Overall, there were a lot of moving puzzle pieces that needed to be brought to a close. In the end, everything came together, which was no easy feat given all the loose ends. Did it feel a bit rushed at times? Yes. Did I enjoy a lot of it? Also yes. The family bonds and friendships that were formed especially stood out to me.
I would have liked to get to know more of the characters and learn more about the world they inhabit, but overall, the story came to a satisfying conclusion.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The last book left us with Ayla and Zayne being separated, and after the strong bond they formed previously, it came across very well that both of them were looking forward to being reunited.
On top of that, we have a lot of political scheming, different factions coming together for a common goal, and Ayla at the centre of it all, trying to find her place and come to terms with her powers.
Overall, there were a lot of moving puzzle pieces that needed to be brought to a close. In the end, everything came together, which was no easy feat given all the loose ends. Did it feel a bit rushed at times? Yes. Did I enjoy a lot of it? Also yes. The family bonds and friendships that were formed especially stood out to me.
I would have liked to get to know more of the characters and learn more about the world they inhabit, but overall, the story came to a satisfying conclusion.
I received a free copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2026
"She can save the world… if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart."
"What if we were never mates but only star-crossed lovers?"
The final book of this trilogy has our group in a bit of a desperate journey still seeking to save the isles from impending war. It's a bit darker, at least at first. Ayla and Zayne are concerned over the complication of their bond. Ninti can't stay by Ayla's side as much as they'd both like, and neither can Rhett, whom I just love! And, Ayla and Zayne are both pulled to Tyre by separate deities.
The trek isn't easy, especially for Ayla because she's still able to feel outside of the throne's desire. But Zayne keeps getting pulled further from Ayla and closer to Gloom, and he doesn't even know because he's not himself.
There were betrayals, lies and loss, but also reconciliations, surprise loyalties and an unshakable found family. Did I mention I adore Rhett? Well, I do! And Vanessa too. I do believe I enjoyed book 2 the most of the trilogy but book 3 definitely had its own action and adventure, sprinkled with a little of Ayla's snarky banter and Zayne's yearning and devotion.
"I need you to fight for yourself too.”
"“I’ve got you,” I promised. “I know,” she whispered. “You’re the one thing I’m sure of.”
"Power without love only leads to loss.”
"“Whatever you face, whoever you become, you’ll never be alone.”
"“Whenever the darkness finds us, I’ll be there,” he promised.
"What if we were never mates but only star-crossed lovers?"
The final book of this trilogy has our group in a bit of a desperate journey still seeking to save the isles from impending war. It's a bit darker, at least at first. Ayla and Zayne are concerned over the complication of their bond. Ninti can't stay by Ayla's side as much as they'd both like, and neither can Rhett, whom I just love! And, Ayla and Zayne are both pulled to Tyre by separate deities.
The trek isn't easy, especially for Ayla because she's still able to feel outside of the throne's desire. But Zayne keeps getting pulled further from Ayla and closer to Gloom, and he doesn't even know because he's not himself.
There were betrayals, lies and loss, but also reconciliations, surprise loyalties and an unshakable found family. Did I mention I adore Rhett? Well, I do! And Vanessa too. I do believe I enjoyed book 2 the most of the trilogy but book 3 definitely had its own action and adventure, sprinkled with a little of Ayla's snarky banter and Zayne's yearning and devotion.
"I need you to fight for yourself too.”
"“I’ve got you,” I promised. “I know,” she whispered. “You’re the one thing I’m sure of.”
"Power without love only leads to loss.”
"“Whatever you face, whoever you become, you’ll never be alone.”
"“Whenever the darkness finds us, I’ll be there,” he promised.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2026
(I received an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review)
This was such a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy! Our main characters really went on such a journey and I’m so happy with how it all ended. Zayne really matured so much this novel and I loved how even though he struggled to not lose himself he still held onto the connection with Ayla and throughout their time apart they still had that tether. It seemed like so much happened with Ayla’s journey and the difficult decisions she had to make but the author did so well with resolving this story and offering one last emotional journey that tested what was destined vs what they really wanted in the end. Zayne and Ayla defied all odds and earned their happy ending.
August 7, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️
Thank you to Behind the Pages PR for an ARC!
This was a strong conclusion to Zayne and Ayla‘s trilogy! As the pair fought their way back to one another, and ultimately towards a brighter future for humans and fae alike, they were forced to make several sacrifices for the greater good. While this ultimately affected their tether, their relationship and love for one another persevered and strengthened. They were truly mates and each other’s better half. I honestly loved them together. I also loved the role Ninti played in their lives and was happy to see her prosper given her own sacrifices. Overall, this one successfully wrapped up the trilogy in a way that fit Zayne and Ayla‘s bond.
*Check TWs if needed.*
🌶️
Thank you to Behind the Pages PR for an ARC!
This was a strong conclusion to Zayne and Ayla‘s trilogy! As the pair fought their way back to one another, and ultimately towards a brighter future for humans and fae alike, they were forced to make several sacrifices for the greater good. While this ultimately affected their tether, their relationship and love for one another persevered and strengthened. They were truly mates and each other’s better half. I honestly loved them together. I also loved the role Ninti played in their lives and was happy to see her prosper given her own sacrifices. Overall, this one successfully wrapped up the trilogy in a way that fit Zayne and Ayla‘s bond.
*Check TWs if needed.*
Review of advance copy received from Author
[ARC Review]
Sacrifice and Salvation
By Mel Braxton
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"After reading the first two books in the trilogy and finally reading the third that I got as a ARC, I actually did enjoy the third book way more then the first two, the conclusion to the trilogy was intense, more story driven and a satisfying ending, some high stacks and character development, we got to see more of Ayla and Zayne, together and apart. it was a good read overall, not my favourite trilogy but I did enjoy parts of it and I'm glad I got to be apart of the world even if it was just for a little while, sometimes a story can just have a happy ending without it being overused."
Sacrifice and Salvation
By Mel Braxton
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"After reading the first two books in the trilogy and finally reading the third that I got as a ARC, I actually did enjoy the third book way more then the first two, the conclusion to the trilogy was intense, more story driven and a satisfying ending, some high stacks and character development, we got to see more of Ayla and Zayne, together and apart. it was a good read overall, not my favourite trilogy but I did enjoy parts of it and I'm glad I got to be apart of the world even if it was just for a little while, sometimes a story can just have a happy ending without it being overused."
July 30, 2026
The ending was okay. The different POV’s were great. To be honest I felt a little bored towards the end. It felt like it was dragged out to make three books. There was little to no plot. The writing was fine. It was a little slower. I also felt like the book was character driven. I did like how it ended. I loved the two different POV’s, but sometimes it did feel like I could not tell who was who. Overall, an okay book. I want to thank behind the pages for giving me the three ebooks to read for a honest review.
July 23, 2026
🔥 Sacrifice and Salvation is the third and final book in the Bound by Thrones trilogy. 🔥
Ayla is torn between her desire to stay away from the throne and taking it in order to end the war her father has created. If she accepts the throne, she will need to desert Zayne, who is already struggling with the corruption brought on by his necromantic magic. There are sacrifices to be made.
Rating: 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sacrifice and Salvation was the perfect ending to the trilogy. It was filled with action,high emotions, and romance.
I enjoyed the magic system in this book/ trilogy a lot. I’m a sucker for necromancy magic! I also loved that the throne calles to Ayla.
The romance was flushed out nicely. There was tension and connection between Ayla and Zaybe which made the relationship feel real and made me as the reader care about it.
I thought the pacing was a little fast. Everything just sort of wrapped up rather quickly.
I recommend this series if you enjoy mortally grey characters and political fantasy.
Thank you so much to the author and Behind the Pages for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Ayla is torn between her desire to stay away from the throne and taking it in order to end the war her father has created. If she accepts the throne, she will need to desert Zayne, who is already struggling with the corruption brought on by his necromantic magic. There are sacrifices to be made.
Rating: 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sacrifice and Salvation was the perfect ending to the trilogy. It was filled with action,high emotions, and romance.
I enjoyed the magic system in this book/ trilogy a lot. I’m a sucker for necromancy magic! I also loved that the throne calles to Ayla.
The romance was flushed out nicely. There was tension and connection between Ayla and Zaybe which made the relationship feel real and made me as the reader care about it.
I thought the pacing was a little fast. Everything just sort of wrapped up rather quickly.
I recommend this series if you enjoy mortally grey characters and political fantasy.
Thank you so much to the author and Behind the Pages for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader Copy Recieved by Author
The promise of an epic and steamy conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy! The storyline weaves together high stakes fantasy, and a passionate romance between Ayla and Zayne. With sacrifice, war, and the struggle against dark magic, makes it sounds like a thrilling ride filled with complex characters and a deeply satisfying ending for the series.
The promise of an epic and steamy conclusion to the Bound by Thrones trilogy! The storyline weaves together high stakes fantasy, and a passionate romance between Ayla and Zayne. With sacrifice, war, and the struggle against dark magic, makes it sounds like a thrilling ride filled with complex characters and a deeply satisfying ending for the series.
August 4, 2026
3.75 Stars!
This was a great ending to the trilogy. To be honest the first book didn’t grip me like I wanted to, but each book got better and I was engaged for most of this book. Once again, this authors writing is easy to follow and each character got the ending they deserved. Ayla grew as a character and I loved watching her. Zayne and Ayla were such a fun couple to follow throughout the series.
Thank you Behind the Pages and Mel Braxton for putting me on the arc team for Sacrifice and Salvation!
This was a great ending to the trilogy. To be honest the first book didn’t grip me like I wanted to, but each book got better and I was engaged for most of this book. Once again, this authors writing is easy to follow and each character got the ending they deserved. Ayla grew as a character and I loved watching her. Zayne and Ayla were such a fun couple to follow throughout the series.
Thank you Behind the Pages and Mel Braxton for putting me on the arc team for Sacrifice and Salvation!
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.75 stars. This was a crazy ending to the trilogy - whoa. This series follows Zayne and Ayla - and it was a good conclusion to all of the drama that kept happening during the series. Zayne continually makes sacrifices for Ayla throughout the story - and it was definitely enjoyable.
Thank you to @behindthepagespa for the eARC of all 3 books.
If you like fae romances and drama - this is a really fun series to pick up.
Thank you to @behindthepagespa for the eARC of all 3 books.
If you like fae romances and drama - this is a really fun series to pick up.
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