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Blood of Kings: Legends #6
Son of Embers
Book 6 in Jill Williamson's epic romantasy Blood of Legends series by Niki Florica!
362 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 10, 2026
Y'all, I've never read a bad Blood of Kings book, but this one feels particularly excellent. Perhaps because it speaks to something in my own life, or because it hits I topic I cherish and sings a truth I stand on. But this is a beautiful, wonderful, excellent story about one of my favorite characters and I totally binged it because I literally couldn't stop reading. It was so exciting!
For firsts, it's a missing persons mystery with skanky inns, bounty hunters, kidnappings, cave exploring, waterfall diving, and action that doesn't let up for long. The adventure just keeps going and unfolding with each turn of the page, I was so captured by the story that I SPILLED MY TEA.
But it's the characters that make these books so epic—ore so than the (gripping) plot and the (superb) worldbuilding. At the heart of it it's a story of three kids struggling to find a place to belong, questioning if there really is a purpose for their lives or if they're just mistakes, castoffs, and without value. It illuminates these themes of freedom from slavery and toxic relationships, of faith wavering and faith confirmed, of redemption, sacrifice, adoption, and what love is.
Y'all, it's just so good! And so well told! Mezaedo is an awesome kid, and after such a bruising past it warmed my heart to see him rise from the fire to something greater than the sum. It was good to see that for both him and for Halona. Even Erro.
Definitely one of the best reads of the year!
For firsts, it's a missing persons mystery with skanky inns, bounty hunters, kidnappings, cave exploring, waterfall diving, and action that doesn't let up for long. The adventure just keeps going and unfolding with each turn of the page, I was so captured by the story that I SPILLED MY TEA.
But it's the characters that make these books so epic—ore so than the (gripping) plot and the (superb) worldbuilding. At the heart of it it's a story of three kids struggling to find a place to belong, questioning if there really is a purpose for their lives or if they're just mistakes, castoffs, and without value. It illuminates these themes of freedom from slavery and toxic relationships, of faith wavering and faith confirmed, of redemption, sacrifice, adoption, and what love is.
Y'all, it's just so good! And so well told! Mezaedo is an awesome kid, and after such a bruising past it warmed my heart to see him rise from the fire to something greater than the sum. It was good to see that for both him and for Halona. Even Erro.
Definitely one of the best reads of the year!
September 19, 2026
Son of Embers
Blood of Kings: Legends #6
By Jill Williamson and Niki Florica
Okay, first off, you have to read the previous books in the Blood of Kings: Legends series. Okay, okay, you don't have to, but you should so you understand the various references to past events. And because it is a series that builds on the story that came before. And they are all really good.
In this book, we have three main characters who couldn't be more different. There is Mezaedo Chevyah, who has spent much of his life as a slavey to a whole plethora of masters and he isn't that old. Then we have Erro Coble, the named heir of a man who was evil and who may or may not be an enemy of the Kingsguard. And last, but by no means least, is Lady Halona Pitney, who is trying to find out the truth about her grandmother's death. And she wears slippers that come equipped with poison, and she's not afraid to use them.
These three need to get out of Har Sha'ar because they may or may not have bounties on their heads, or, at least Mezaedo does, and it may be tied to something from his past. A past that Erro may know something about. But when betrayal comes calling, Mezaedo and Halona are on their own trying to get out of a land that is filled with people hunting them. Never a pleasant thing.
This was such a good book, both tragic and triumphant at the same time. This book is hard to describe in a way that does it justice without giving too much away. But whatever you do, do not jump to the end. This is a story that must unfold chapter-by-chapter to experience and appreciate it fully. And the ending - WOW!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Blood of Kings: Legends #6
By Jill Williamson and Niki Florica
Okay, first off, you have to read the previous books in the Blood of Kings: Legends series. Okay, okay, you don't have to, but you should so you understand the various references to past events. And because it is a series that builds on the story that came before. And they are all really good.
In this book, we have three main characters who couldn't be more different. There is Mezaedo Chevyah, who has spent much of his life as a slavey to a whole plethora of masters and he isn't that old. Then we have Erro Coble, the named heir of a man who was evil and who may or may not be an enemy of the Kingsguard. And last, but by no means least, is Lady Halona Pitney, who is trying to find out the truth about her grandmother's death. And she wears slippers that come equipped with poison, and she's not afraid to use them.
These three need to get out of Har Sha'ar because they may or may not have bounties on their heads, or, at least Mezaedo does, and it may be tied to something from his past. A past that Erro may know something about. But when betrayal comes calling, Mezaedo and Halona are on their own trying to get out of a land that is filled with people hunting them. Never a pleasant thing.
This was such a good book, both tragic and triumphant at the same time. This book is hard to describe in a way that does it justice without giving too much away. But whatever you do, do not jump to the end. This is a story that must unfold chapter-by-chapter to experience and appreciate it fully. And the ending - WOW!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
September 7, 2026
Moldy onions, was this one good! Once my eyes stop leaking I’ll tell you just how good!
**sniff**
Okay, so allow me to tell you about this phenomenal book. I fell in love with inspirational fantasy all over again, and any time I can travel back to Er’rets sign me up!
Mezaedo is back, and he’s on a mission for the crown. Enter Har Sha’ar and find out what’s happening to the Poroo, all without getting caught. After all, strays make the best spies, right?
So, naturally, he immediately gets recognized and barely escapes with the unlikely assistance of Halona Pitney and Erro Coble, lifelong friends and people he can trust…
Weeeellll, hold that thought. Because nothing is as it seems in Har Sha’ar. Or this book. Except for Mez’s fascination with Halona’s nose, which is really something—trust me!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend—and have a big box of tissues nearby!
**sniff**
Okay, so allow me to tell you about this phenomenal book. I fell in love with inspirational fantasy all over again, and any time I can travel back to Er’rets sign me up!
Mezaedo is back, and he’s on a mission for the crown. Enter Har Sha’ar and find out what’s happening to the Poroo, all without getting caught. After all, strays make the best spies, right?
So, naturally, he immediately gets recognized and barely escapes with the unlikely assistance of Halona Pitney and Erro Coble, lifelong friends and people he can trust…
Weeeellll, hold that thought. Because nothing is as it seems in Har Sha’ar. Or this book. Except for Mez’s fascination with Halona’s nose, which is really something—trust me!
I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend—and have a big box of tissues nearby!
August 8, 2026
This might be my favorite Blood of Kings: Legends book yet!
I absolutely love Mez and I’m so glad we get a follow up book about him after the events of Heir of Light. But even more, I LOVE that he’s paired with Halona!!!
I don’t know how I forgot about Halona, but I did and I am so glad that she gets her own story too and that it involves Mez. They are truly the perfect pairing!
In addition, the plot of this book is quite daring. There’s magic and fighting and tracking down kidnapped folk and healing, so much healing. I wasn’t sure how the events would unfold and I was really, really worried about Mez making it out in one piece.
I love Mez’s journey and how his past as a stray plays into his journey of learning that he matters. The way Niki set up his previous masters and the things he learned from them is so well done. I also adore Halona’s journey of staying true to her weird, wild self and not letting anybody change her into someone else. Combined, this book is full of such incredible and powerful themes and messages.
I appreciate that this series is loosely connected by an overarching plot to figure out what’s going on with the dark magic in Er’Rets. It’s great to have something more stringing along the series than each book just being about a “random” side character. I do think it is best to read all the previous books before this one, especially Heir of Light, to understand what is happening with the characters.
~Thank you to the publisher for providing an early digital copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.~
I absolutely love Mez and I’m so glad we get a follow up book about him after the events of Heir of Light. But even more, I LOVE that he’s paired with Halona!!!
I don’t know how I forgot about Halona, but I did and I am so glad that she gets her own story too and that it involves Mez. They are truly the perfect pairing!
In addition, the plot of this book is quite daring. There’s magic and fighting and tracking down kidnapped folk and healing, so much healing. I wasn’t sure how the events would unfold and I was really, really worried about Mez making it out in one piece.
I love Mez’s journey and how his past as a stray plays into his journey of learning that he matters. The way Niki set up his previous masters and the things he learned from them is so well done. I also adore Halona’s journey of staying true to her weird, wild self and not letting anybody change her into someone else. Combined, this book is full of such incredible and powerful themes and messages.
I appreciate that this series is loosely connected by an overarching plot to figure out what’s going on with the dark magic in Er’Rets. It’s great to have something more stringing along the series than each book just being about a “random” side character. I do think it is best to read all the previous books before this one, especially Heir of Light, to understand what is happening with the characters.
~Thank you to the publisher for providing an early digital copy in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own.~
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book made me cry in all the best ways!
Halona, the girl with poison in her slippers, reminds me of Luna from Harry Potter. A little eccentric and odd, but passionate, curious, and stubborn in a good way. Her desire to be useful matched Mez. I knew Mez from the previous book, but to read his point of view made me so much more compassionate than before. A person who seemed like a goofball sidekick developed into a witty, fun, and heartbreaking individual who hid his pain with humor. Then there's Erro. Although not a point of view character, he was intriguing because neither I nor Halona nor Mez ever knew what side he was on until the very end. He acts as a foil for Mez in more than one way.
The plot is fast-paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. I stayed up late to finish this book, it was so good! I really loved how the author made metaphors and similes based on the character's personality and also tied in their eccentricities. The author did a great job describing the setting and tension.
The faith element was beautiful. The only part I didn't like is that God's voice wasn't present in the story, but I suppose that's a denominational difference (I believe God can speak to people). However, there was definitely faith portions and it was worth the wait!
The romance was...complicated. It's a love triangle, and in my opinion, a love triangle done right. My biggest frustration with love triangles is that the female main character can't make up her mind. In this instance, she did, but there was also tragedy and heartbreak that complicated things. Mez was a noble gentleman the entire time, and just...ah! You have to read it!
Content Warning: Fake cursing (Pebbles, Moldy Onions), PG-13 level violence, description of passionate kisses
Halona, the girl with poison in her slippers, reminds me of Luna from Harry Potter. A little eccentric and odd, but passionate, curious, and stubborn in a good way. Her desire to be useful matched Mez. I knew Mez from the previous book, but to read his point of view made me so much more compassionate than before. A person who seemed like a goofball sidekick developed into a witty, fun, and heartbreaking individual who hid his pain with humor. Then there's Erro. Although not a point of view character, he was intriguing because neither I nor Halona nor Mez ever knew what side he was on until the very end. He acts as a foil for Mez in more than one way.
The plot is fast-paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. I stayed up late to finish this book, it was so good! I really loved how the author made metaphors and similes based on the character's personality and also tied in their eccentricities. The author did a great job describing the setting and tension.
The faith element was beautiful. The only part I didn't like is that God's voice wasn't present in the story, but I suppose that's a denominational difference (I believe God can speak to people). However, there was definitely faith portions and it was worth the wait!
The romance was...complicated. It's a love triangle, and in my opinion, a love triangle done right. My biggest frustration with love triangles is that the female main character can't make up her mind. In this instance, she did, but there was also tragedy and heartbreak that complicated things. Mez was a noble gentleman the entire time, and just...ah! You have to read it!
Content Warning: Fake cursing (Pebbles, Moldy Onions), PG-13 level violence, description of passionate kisses
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I loved Mez and Halona so much and I was so sad when when the story ended because I wanted to know what comes next for them. I feel like they have much more to their story and I sincerely hope they make it into future books. But even if they don't, I'm going to have fun imagining where their story will go.
Halona sees the good in others, particularly Erro, to her own detriment. Hers is a very familiar story of loving someone so much and letting the potential you see cloud your reality. It was hard to read her sweetness being rebuffed over and over again. Learning how to balance compassion with boundaries is a hard thing. I loved her quirky artistic whimsical nature and Niki did a great job in setting the reader up to automatically ship her and Mez before they even had a lot of on-page time together.
Mez's story will resonate with anyone who has been abandoned by so-called caretakers. It has wounded him and it affects how he sees himself and drives his desire to be "useful" even to his own detriment. While that wound is there and definitely affects the way he looks at life and the people around him, he still has a strong moral compass and I love how aware he is of what's right and what's wrong. He never stops trying to do the right thing even when he messes up or runs into roadblocks.
The romance was so sweet and I loved how these two characters saw the ignored parts of each other and built each other up. Truthfully? This part of the story feels a bit unfinished. But that's okay. Because while both of them grow throughout the story, and the author sets up a beautiful foundation...they've got a ways to go and to tie it up too quickly would do a disservice to both characters.
The interesting thing about this story however, is how both of their individual stories, as well as their budding relationship, plays a role in the redemption arc of another character. The part I thought would be more about developing Halona's character pivots and ends up taking center stage. I can't give more details without spoiling, but it's all beautiful and while the romance takes a bit of a back seat towards the end, it intersects beautifully. I'm still thinking about it several days later.
Favorite moments:
Mez' awareness of Halona's emotional vulnerability and the conscious decision to put his desires on hold and NOT take advantage!!!!!! I LOVE THIS! More of this in fiction PLEASE! It makes the romance mean more!
The absolute preciousness of Mez and Halona's shared quirky weirdness. Blueberries.
Mez under the carriage.
Mez in the fire.
Rigil and Mez.
Sethe and Halona.
I loved this story. I miss these characters so much. I want more. Thank you Niki for another beautiful episode in The Blood of Kings Legends.
Halona sees the good in others, particularly Erro, to her own detriment. Hers is a very familiar story of loving someone so much and letting the potential you see cloud your reality. It was hard to read her sweetness being rebuffed over and over again. Learning how to balance compassion with boundaries is a hard thing. I loved her quirky artistic whimsical nature and Niki did a great job in setting the reader up to automatically ship her and Mez before they even had a lot of on-page time together.
Mez's story will resonate with anyone who has been abandoned by so-called caretakers. It has wounded him and it affects how he sees himself and drives his desire to be "useful" even to his own detriment. While that wound is there and definitely affects the way he looks at life and the people around him, he still has a strong moral compass and I love how aware he is of what's right and what's wrong. He never stops trying to do the right thing even when he messes up or runs into roadblocks.
The romance was so sweet and I loved how these two characters saw the ignored parts of each other and built each other up. Truthfully? This part of the story feels a bit unfinished. But that's okay. Because while both of them grow throughout the story, and the author sets up a beautiful foundation...they've got a ways to go and to tie it up too quickly would do a disservice to both characters.
The interesting thing about this story however, is how both of their individual stories, as well as their budding relationship, plays a role in the redemption arc of another character. The part I thought would be more about developing Halona's character pivots and ends up taking center stage. I can't give more details without spoiling, but it's all beautiful and while the romance takes a bit of a back seat towards the end, it intersects beautifully. I'm still thinking about it several days later.
Favorite moments:
Mez' awareness of Halona's emotional vulnerability and the conscious decision to put his desires on hold and NOT take advantage!!!!!! I LOVE THIS! More of this in fiction PLEASE! It makes the romance mean more!
The absolute preciousness of Mez and Halona's shared quirky weirdness. Blueberries.
Mez under the carriage.
Mez in the fire.
Rigil and Mez.
Sethe and Halona.
I loved this story. I miss these characters so much. I want more. Thank you Niki for another beautiful episode in The Blood of Kings Legends.
July 29, 2026
I enjoyed this Christian fantasy with romance read. With a love triangle, forced proximity, danger, darkness, and more, this fantasy had action, Christian themes, found family, and a lot of soul searching. The world building is intense in this series, as are the machinations of the perpetrators of evil.
This is a multi-author series set in the same fantasy world. Each author has a sort of “subset series” with related characters inside this overarching Blood of Kings: Legends spinoff series. It can be a bit difficult to keep all of the “separate” storylines and characters straight when we are jumping from author to author and town to town, bringing back characters and events from books passed. These series would be great to binge - originals and spin-offs together - all in a row with no interruptions. It is a well crafted world and saga.
The romance took a back seat in this book to the fantasy and the character development. It was an interesting journey we were taken on. There were heart wrenching moments, moments that had us on the edge of our seat, and moments where we didn’t know how light could shine again. I’m curious to see where this series will take us next. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
Content Warnings: Past Child Abuse (on page), Blood, Injuries, Torture, Death, Pagan Rituals
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This is a multi-author series set in the same fantasy world. Each author has a sort of “subset series” with related characters inside this overarching Blood of Kings: Legends spinoff series. It can be a bit difficult to keep all of the “separate” storylines and characters straight when we are jumping from author to author and town to town, bringing back characters and events from books passed. These series would be great to binge - originals and spin-offs together - all in a row with no interruptions. It is a well crafted world and saga.
The romance took a back seat in this book to the fantasy and the character development. It was an interesting journey we were taken on. There were heart wrenching moments, moments that had us on the edge of our seat, and moments where we didn’t know how light could shine again. I’m curious to see where this series will take us next. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 2.
Content Warnings: Past Child Abuse (on page), Blood, Injuries, Torture, Death, Pagan Rituals
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
July 31, 2026
Honestly I had a lot of mixed feelings about this book.
I loved seeing Mez again and learning about his perspective from the ending of Heir of Light. Mez really struggles with seeing Arman as another master instead of a savior. He keeps trying to earn his keep not only with Arman and the Kingsguard but also making up for his mistakes from his last mission and proving himself worthy. Mez really shows us the slave mentality that many Christian’s have even after being set free and trying to earn their salvation. I loved seeing his growth and mindset change from slave to free and the internal struggle that came with it.
Halona is a new character we are introduced to. She is outspoken, vibrant, quirky, loyal, and a bit naïve. She is searching for answers to what happened to her grandmother who has been missing and is presumed to be dead. Halona refuses to give up hope that her grandmother is still alive and won’t stop looking until she finds out what is going on. She is loyal to her childhood friend/love to a fault. She won’t give up on Erro even when all things say she should.
What gave me mixed feelings about the book was the love triangle. I HATE a love triangle. Halona is fiercely loyal to Erro even when he talks down to her, uses her, and everyone who care about her warns her away from him because he isn’t good. Even after she finds out that he planned on using her for his own gain she still refuses to walk away from him.
The plot of the book took me a bit to get in to. I felt like on the first half of the book we just went in circles and it was a bit slow even though there was a lot happening. The last half is what drew me in. Finding out about the Ebens plans and the secrets that Nedir left really captured my attention and kept me turning the page.
One inconsistency I found in the book that is a bit of a spoiler is that after Sashi took Mez to the cave and Erro and Halona came to save him, Erro burned Sashi with his magic fire and it even talks about disposing of his body. However, in the end of the book it talks about arresting and charging Sashi with treason. I was really confused reading that part and even went back to confirm that Sashi was dead.
Overall, I did enjoy this book as a whole. The ending made me cry and the romance between Mez and Halona was so innocent and sweet. I’m excited to see what’s next in the Blood of Kings: Legends series.
I loved seeing Mez again and learning about his perspective from the ending of Heir of Light. Mez really struggles with seeing Arman as another master instead of a savior. He keeps trying to earn his keep not only with Arman and the Kingsguard but also making up for his mistakes from his last mission and proving himself worthy. Mez really shows us the slave mentality that many Christian’s have even after being set free and trying to earn their salvation. I loved seeing his growth and mindset change from slave to free and the internal struggle that came with it.
Halona is a new character we are introduced to. She is outspoken, vibrant, quirky, loyal, and a bit naïve. She is searching for answers to what happened to her grandmother who has been missing and is presumed to be dead. Halona refuses to give up hope that her grandmother is still alive and won’t stop looking until she finds out what is going on. She is loyal to her childhood friend/love to a fault. She won’t give up on Erro even when all things say she should.
What gave me mixed feelings about the book was the love triangle. I HATE a love triangle. Halona is fiercely loyal to Erro even when he talks down to her, uses her, and everyone who care about her warns her away from him because he isn’t good. Even after she finds out that he planned on using her for his own gain she still refuses to walk away from him.
The plot of the book took me a bit to get in to. I felt like on the first half of the book we just went in circles and it was a bit slow even though there was a lot happening. The last half is what drew me in. Finding out about the Ebens plans and the secrets that Nedir left really captured my attention and kept me turning the page.
One inconsistency I found in the book that is a bit of a spoiler is that after Sashi took Mez to the cave and Erro and Halona came to save him, Erro burned Sashi with his magic fire and it even talks about disposing of his body. However, in the end of the book it talks about arresting and charging Sashi with treason. I was really confused reading that part and even went back to confirm that Sashi was dead.
Overall, I did enjoy this book as a whole. The ending made me cry and the romance between Mez and Halona was so innocent and sweet. I’m excited to see what’s next in the Blood of Kings: Legends series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
All these books in the Blood of Kings: Legends Series are amazing!
They are packed with vivid imagery and are so captivating!
Each one starts on the first page with action and adventure, then keeps the reader spellbound until the very last page.
The story world this book is set in will take your breath away. From the colorful settings to the creative dialogue, this book has it all!
In this story, we meet Mezaedo, who needs to prove his worth as a Kingsman, but in his mind, he only hears the lies from his past. Can he break away from all the lies and control his past masters had over him? We also meet Halona, a girl with a colorful, free spirit. Her mission is to find her missing grandmother. Can these two help each other out and find truth in a land where there is darkness? Evil is trying to win, but will they stand strong?
Jill Williamson is a fantastic, creative writer. Her characters come alive with passion and boldness. She also introduces us to Niki Florica, who adds her flair to this wonderful story.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and make it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
The publisher gave me this book, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
They are packed with vivid imagery and are so captivating!
Each one starts on the first page with action and adventure, then keeps the reader spellbound until the very last page.
The story world this book is set in will take your breath away. From the colorful settings to the creative dialogue, this book has it all!
In this story, we meet Mezaedo, who needs to prove his worth as a Kingsman, but in his mind, he only hears the lies from his past. Can he break away from all the lies and control his past masters had over him? We also meet Halona, a girl with a colorful, free spirit. Her mission is to find her missing grandmother. Can these two help each other out and find truth in a land where there is darkness? Evil is trying to win, but will they stand strong?
Jill Williamson is a fantastic, creative writer. Her characters come alive with passion and boldness. She also introduces us to Niki Florica, who adds her flair to this wonderful story.
If you want to get lost in a magical world that will make your heart pound and make it hard to breathe, then this is the book for you. I must warn you, once you start, you might not want to put it down until you finish the whole book!
I highly recommend you pick this book up!
The publisher gave me this book, which did not influence my review in any way; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
I think everyone has had that experience where you put everything you have into a relationship and the other person just takes advantage of you, takes you for granted, and barely notices. That made this story difficult for me to read. Just when you think Halona has given up on Erro, he pulls her back in. Made me want to scream at the the book.
Warning, spoilers.
That made the ending confusing for me. The way she acted towards Erro, even after everything he did to her, makes me think that Halona is not over him. I can’t help but wonder, if Erro hadn’t died, would she have chosen him over Mez? Is Mez her second choice? Is she just settling for Mez?
The last chapter makes me think maybe not, but the way, how easily, he pulls her back to him every time, and how it is obvious she still loves him in that last scene, makes me wonder.
Warning, spoilers.
That made the ending confusing for me. The way she acted towards Erro, even after everything he did to her, makes me think that Halona is not over him. I can’t help but wonder, if Erro hadn’t died, would she have chosen him over Mez? Is Mez her second choice? Is she just settling for Mez?
The last chapter makes me think maybe not, but the way, how easily, he pulls her back to him every time, and how it is obvious she still loves him in that last scene, makes me wonder.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have LOVED Jill's books and always look forward to the next edition, but I struggled at the start of this one. I think it might have been helpful to have a list of characters at the beginning to help me remember where I met each character and their place in the story. When I started reading this one, I was so confused and really debated not finishing this book. I've never struggled with connecting with the characters either, but this one just didn't sit the same.
I am glad I powered through and finished. By the end, I was able to connect where and why these people were part of this grand tale. While this wasn't my favorite book in the series, it was worth the read.
I am glad I powered through and finished. By the end, I was able to connect where and why these people were part of this grand tale. While this wasn't my favorite book in the series, it was worth the read.
September 15, 2026
Son of Embers engaged me with its unlikely heroes. I liked Halona’s connection with the forest. At first, I couldn’t quite keep “good guys” and “bad guys” straight: Mez, Erro, Halona. Other characters mostly seemed to be all bad guys. I had several questions as I read, and it took a while to figure out all the people and how they fit in the overall story line. The “love triangle” tension was well done. The authors explained all plot intrigues by the end of the book. My favorite characters were Mez and Halona. I also appreciated the story’s perfectly satisfying ending.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
September 20, 2026
Loved, loved this story! Brought me to tears...normally, that's a mark against the book. But I'll blame it on my overly sensitive emotions, since this wasn't the only book this week that brought out the waterworks!
Great tale of our past not defining us. Letting go and letting G-d take control. I loved this so much! Such a beautiful tale for Meza.
And for Halona! I worship with flags and dance, and this hit me in all the feels like a ton of bricks! How beautiful! I'm just in awe of this story! It was amazing!
I've loved all the books so far in the Blood of Kings world. From the original to Legends to The King's Spies. I would love to live in this world forever!!
Great tale of our past not defining us. Letting go and letting G-d take control. I loved this so much! Such a beautiful tale for Meza.
And for Halona! I worship with flags and dance, and this hit me in all the feels like a ton of bricks! How beautiful! I'm just in awe of this story! It was amazing!
I've loved all the books so far in the Blood of Kings world. From the original to Legends to The King's Spies. I would love to live in this world forever!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A wonderful story. Not only was it a gripping adventure, full of action and surprisingly, humor, but it also got me thinking about our relationship to God. A quote from the book was, “Arman only has sons, not slaves”. That was an underlying theme in the book, that God is our creator, and He doesn’t need us. But He works in our lives for our good, and His purposes. I really enjoyed the descriptive language; describing things in unusual ways , such as the taste of the sky. It takes me back to the way fantasy used to be written. It made me smile, and I delighted in it.
September 17, 2026
Like most of the books in this series, it takes me a little while to acclimate and learn who all of the characters are, but the story is well worth the initial confusion. Deep, complex characters that keep you guessing as to who they really are inside, interwoven with a story line that keeps you jumping to conclusions, only to surprise you when the story takes a turn from where you thought it was going. I was never sure who to cheer for! It's been a very long time since a story surprised me so consistently throughout, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. An engrossing read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I struggled a bit to get into this one in the first few chapters, partly because I couldn't remember who Mezaedo Chevyah or Halona were, but I ended up really liking both of those characters!! And they are characters! ;) There were a couple of scenes that seemed a bit hard to survive, yet they both managed to. You'll just have to read it for yourself!!!
Thank you to the author and publisher for the advance e-copy of this book!! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the advance e-copy of this book!! All opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
BRAVO! Williamson and Florica have crafted an exquisite masterpiece! I was immediately immersed into the drama. Twists and turns kept me turning the pages. These characters will linger long after turning the final page.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Recommend to readers who enjoy Christian fantasy.
DISCLAIMER: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is one of my favorite installments of the "Legends" series! The characters are so relatable and I loved the complexity of the relationships in this book. The action starts right away, so this one snaggs your attention from the beginning. Halona and Mex will steal your heart. We also see some familiar faces from previous Legends books, which is always fun! (Recommend reading "Heir of Light" before this installment for the best back-story and context)
September 20, 2026
I loved the storyline on this one, as it was a bit different from the others. Mez is basically on his own now instead of with the Kingsguard. Helona is determined to find her missing grandmother, and they can't seem to take a step forward without getting pushed two back. The action continued through the whole book, and the ending was absolute perfection! I especially loved Mez's growth and acceptance of his place and purpose in life.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"Every stroke of Arman's brush has a purpose, and so do you." This one line from Son of Embers brought the waterworks on for me. And the story from that point on raised the rating from 4 stars to 5 for me.
The beginning half of Son of Embers does a lot to help us understand the back story of the main characters. I was so happy to be catching up on Mazaedo Chevya's life but also found myself struggling to orient myself to the characters and how they related to previous Blood of Kings books.
Perhaps that's the charm of Son of Embers. Two flawed individuals, struggling to find their worth. Longing to do something that has an impact on their world. Isn't it a longing we all have? When the story began to pull all the raveled threads together it was breathtaking and wonderful. I was running on a treadmill, while reading, and I could barely breathe I was crying so hard over the beauty of the truths that are ours in Christ. Mazaedo and Halona's story had become mine.
After my run, I pulled out my journal and jotted down tons of favorite lines, their impact on me, how I was processing the story. It was very personal for me and I got way more than I expected from the story.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
The beginning half of Son of Embers does a lot to help us understand the back story of the main characters. I was so happy to be catching up on Mazaedo Chevya's life but also found myself struggling to orient myself to the characters and how they related to previous Blood of Kings books.
Perhaps that's the charm of Son of Embers. Two flawed individuals, struggling to find their worth. Longing to do something that has an impact on their world. Isn't it a longing we all have? When the story began to pull all the raveled threads together it was breathtaking and wonderful. I was running on a treadmill, while reading, and I could barely breathe I was crying so hard over the beauty of the truths that are ours in Christ. Mazaedo and Halona's story had become mine.
After my run, I pulled out my journal and jotted down tons of favorite lines, their impact on me, how I was processing the story. It was very personal for me and I got way more than I expected from the story.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A fantastic addition to Blood of Kings series! I loved the theme of light and dark woven into this story! A fast paced story; you won't want to miss!
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the publisher and all opinions are my own.
September 7, 2026
Even though the darkness has been banished, Er’Rets has a dark side.
Welcome to that dark side.
Two incredible narrators tell this story of plots and twists and inexplicable losses. Mez has the bluster and bravado you’ll remember from Sir RIgil’s story, but now we can see what goes on behind that facade. Halona’s plucky determination shines from the first page.
The romance between these two doesn’t have time to develop. Once you read the story, you’ll see why, but no spoilers from me. Are we ever driven to make ourselves useful so someone-anyone- will accept us? Sadly, that character journey resonated with me. And so the tears came when Arman made it clear that his love doesn’t care about our usefulness.
The idea the worship expressed from a soul-deep well and through dancing could push back the darkness really got me thinking. So, while there’s tons of action and adventure to keep you turning pages, the underlying truths are what will stay with you when the story is done.
Welcome to that dark side.
Two incredible narrators tell this story of plots and twists and inexplicable losses. Mez has the bluster and bravado you’ll remember from Sir RIgil’s story, but now we can see what goes on behind that facade. Halona’s plucky determination shines from the first page.
The romance between these two doesn’t have time to develop. Once you read the story, you’ll see why, but no spoilers from me. Are we ever driven to make ourselves useful so someone-anyone- will accept us? Sadly, that character journey resonated with me. And so the tears came when Arman made it clear that his love doesn’t care about our usefulness.
The idea the worship expressed from a soul-deep well and through dancing could push back the darkness really got me thinking. So, while there’s tons of action and adventure to keep you turning pages, the underlying truths are what will stay with you when the story is done.
September 15, 2026
A winsome adventure with one of my favorite characters! Once again, Niki Florica sweeps the reader away with an imaginative and beautifully crafted story, with loyalty, redemption, and divine truths at its heart. This one makes you feel the greatest love.
September 20, 2026
Enjoyed this very much, especially loved the bits of banter!
~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~
~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a wonderful addition to the Blood of the Kings Legacy. In Son of Embers, Mez, a slave-turned-squire, and Halona, a noblewoman, are being hunted, and Mez has a bounty on his head. Halona is also searching for her gran, who has disappeared. This medieval romantasy has Mez finally understanding that he's no longer a slave but a son. Son of Embers has action, bounty hunters, a forced alliance no wants between 3 people, faith, and witty banter.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment in the world of Er'Rets. The mystery and action were exciting, but for me, it was the characters that kept me engaged. They were intriguing and their struggles and emotions were so real that it made me want to keep reading to learn more about them.
The themes running through the book of purpose and worth are something everyone can relate to. The climax was triumphant and moving. The wrap-up after the main conflict ended was perhaps a bit too long, but that is really my only criticism. It was truly an excellent read.
The themes running through the book of purpose and worth are something everyone can relate to. The climax was triumphant and moving. The wrap-up after the main conflict ended was perhaps a bit too long, but that is really my only criticism. It was truly an excellent read.
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