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Embers From The Fall: Book One
From sun and stone you were made,
to sun and stone you shall return.
Elaina Dairik ran through most of her life honoring The First and waiting for her Forging Day as most Demanie did. Now, newly forged within the fires of the Gods and writhing with magic of the land, tradition and duty call her towards the Eastern Grove Training Center to train to fight against the Creatures of the Dark plaguing her universe. But her magic, and the Gods, are different than she expected.
The emotional toll that comes with the power of the Gods intertwines with Elaina’s own fears, leading to trust becoming a word she hides away from. But the bounds of her new power, her new feelings for Rosylyn, and her need for control become secondary when news arrives of ruthless and targeted attacks on villages spreads and knocks burning hands on her own door.
Where was the High Council to intervene? Where were the Gods?
If Elaina gives into her fear and resists trusting those around her, she loses all chances of saving her people and those she loves against an enemy that was supposed to be her protection.
to sun and stone you shall return.
Elaina Dairik ran through most of her life honoring The First and waiting for her Forging Day as most Demanie did. Now, newly forged within the fires of the Gods and writhing with magic of the land, tradition and duty call her towards the Eastern Grove Training Center to train to fight against the Creatures of the Dark plaguing her universe. But her magic, and the Gods, are different than she expected.
The emotional toll that comes with the power of the Gods intertwines with Elaina’s own fears, leading to trust becoming a word she hides away from. But the bounds of her new power, her new feelings for Rosylyn, and her need for control become secondary when news arrives of ruthless and targeted attacks on villages spreads and knocks burning hands on her own door.
Where was the High Council to intervene? Where were the Gods?
If Elaina gives into her fear and resists trusting those around her, she loses all chances of saving her people and those she loves against an enemy that was supposed to be her protection.
384 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 4, 2026
𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 4/5⭐️
Embers From the Fall by M.G. McCarty
Really enjoyed the setting for this book! The magic academy was fun and the found family vibes were so good! The magic system and the different celestial and elemental magic was really interesting and I loved how it was all tied to the suns and the Gods.
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the eARC of this book!
I will say my favorite part of this book was the friend group. I loved their connection and their relationships. They definitely brought strength to each other and it was just so sweet to see. There is a lot of lore in this and I can’t wait to see how it expands in the next book.
The ending chapters were super interesting and really gave me a lot to contemplate. I am interested in continuing with this story. I would say that if you enjoy no spice, found family, and celestial/elemental magic you might enjoy this one!
Embers From the Fall by M.G. McCarty
Really enjoyed the setting for this book! The magic academy was fun and the found family vibes were so good! The magic system and the different celestial and elemental magic was really interesting and I loved how it was all tied to the suns and the Gods.
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the eARC of this book!
I will say my favorite part of this book was the friend group. I loved their connection and their relationships. They definitely brought strength to each other and it was just so sweet to see. There is a lot of lore in this and I can’t wait to see how it expands in the next book.
The ending chapters were super interesting and really gave me a lot to contemplate. I am interested in continuing with this story. I would say that if you enjoy no spice, found family, and celestial/elemental magic you might enjoy this one!
October 16, 2026
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the ARC!!
This fantasy world was nothing like I've read before. The original story was set up perfectly without intense world building taking over. Instead, we learned with the FMC feeling the confusion and worry by her side or learning about her family dynamics at the same time as other characters, making it feel like we were standing right there with them.
What sets this book and FMC apart, is the refreshing twist of a struggle to grow her confidence and magic rather than just figuring it out by herself and blowing everyone out of the water. That realness factor forced me to stop mid sentence to take in the weight of that moment for Elaina.
I kept being surprised along the way with crazy twists and turns that shook me to my core. I also love the scientific elements from the author that grounded the storyline. I can't wait for book two!!
This fantasy world was nothing like I've read before. The original story was set up perfectly without intense world building taking over. Instead, we learned with the FMC feeling the confusion and worry by her side or learning about her family dynamics at the same time as other characters, making it feel like we were standing right there with them.
What sets this book and FMC apart, is the refreshing twist of a struggle to grow her confidence and magic rather than just figuring it out by herself and blowing everyone out of the water. That realness factor forced me to stop mid sentence to take in the weight of that moment for Elaina.
I kept being surprised along the way with crazy twists and turns that shook me to my core. I also love the scientific elements from the author that grounded the storyline. I can't wait for book two!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I liked the story, the magic system and how they were using the suns and the Gods.
I very much enjoyed the school/academy vibe with classes and challenges along the way!
The way the children also comes to a family and everything was also a nice touch!
Friendships that were made in the school had a strong found family connection and I believed they all got more strength from one another.
I however just felt that the relationship and the bond thing was a bit flat for me. I just felt it being very much no getting to know eachother more as it was we are just drawn to eachother thing. But that is a feeling I have had in these kinda scenarioes before when it feels so instant kind of.
I loved the world where it's inclusive in both who you can be with and the language around it.
Thank you to Rattle the stars PR and the author for an early copy - my review is my own opinion.
I very much enjoyed the school/academy vibe with classes and challenges along the way!
The way the children also comes to a family and everything was also a nice touch!
Friendships that were made in the school had a strong found family connection and I believed they all got more strength from one another.
I however just felt that the relationship and the bond thing was a bit flat for me. I just felt it being very much no getting to know eachother more as it was we are just drawn to eachother thing. But that is a feeling I have had in these kinda scenarioes before when it feels so instant kind of.
I loved the world where it's inclusive in both who you can be with and the language around it.
Thank you to Rattle the stars PR and the author for an early copy - my review is my own opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2026
This is a hard one for me to rate. I had a good time reading but I struggled to connect with the story or any of the characters. The magic system felt unique but I did struggle to understand it at times. Same with the conflict. It kinda felt all over the place. I enjoyed the time spent at the training camp. Once they left, it felt like a completely different story.
The romance between Elaina and Rosylyn was sweet! As well as the relationships amongst all of the friends. They seemed to grow very close, very quickly but I loved the found family vibes. This definitely felt more YA. Elaina is twenty, not sure if they’re all the same age, and I couldn’t imagine her and her friends as being anything other than teenagers.
Overall, this was a quick, easy ready. The magic was interesting and the characters are sweet. There are some great moments but as a whole it was okay. Thank you to RTSPR and the author for my early copy!
The romance between Elaina and Rosylyn was sweet! As well as the relationships amongst all of the friends. They seemed to grow very close, very quickly but I loved the found family vibes. This definitely felt more YA. Elaina is twenty, not sure if they’re all the same age, and I couldn’t imagine her and her friends as being anything other than teenagers.
Overall, this was a quick, easy ready. The magic was interesting and the characters are sweet. There are some great moments but as a whole it was okay. Thank you to RTSPR and the author for my early copy!
October 13, 2026
4.5/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Really imaginative fantasy read! I enjoyed the mythological setting of this world, the author really made me feel like I was in this world, without it being overwhelming.
The characters are fun and lovable, this fantasy is really character driven, and I loved every bit of it. It focuses on the FMC coming of age, strong focus on friendships and found family, some of my favorite tropes!
If you are into immersive world building, LGBTQ+ positive, fantasy slow burn romance with no spice (you aren’t missing it at all), found family, magically academy setting then this is the book for you!
I cannot wait for book 2!!
October 27, 2026
-Fourth Wing vibes–academy setting, an immediate friend group, and (sometimes) dangerous trials
-Found family
-No spice
-LGBTQIA+ positive
-Elemental magic
As always, I’m going to find quotes to love.
“And the strength you carry is a gift. But it is also heavy.”
“Almost is a powerful and useless word.”
I adore a book with a map and even more one with a lil outline in the beginning describing key elements!
“Elaina Dairik ran through most of her life honoring The First and waiting for her Forging Day as most young Demanie did. Now, newly forged within the fires of the Gods and writhing with magic of the land, tradition and duty call her towards the Eastern Grove Training Center to train to fight against the Creatures of the Dark plaguing her universe. But her magic, and the Gods, are different than she expected.”
We are introduced to our MFC, Elaina Dairik, as she prepares for her forging where she will find out what her ember–her magic–would turn out to be. Once that process is complete, she’ll travel to the Eastern Grove Training Camp (not where her guardians had hoped (they are very sketchy) to begin her training. But first….she notices a tavern that wasn’t there before she received her magic. She meets someone there….keep him in the back of your mind.
Upon embarking, she makes a fast friend on the airbus, and also has a *moment* with another trainee. A moment that leaves her questioning. As she gets to know her fellow students, she forms a fast, tight friend group–and in this academy setting, they need all the good friends they can get. She also finds something she wasn’t looking for but now can’t do without!
Things get more dangerous and it becomes clear that they are not being told the truth about what is going on in their villages back home, and at the academy. It’s hard to know who is telling the truth and who can be trusted. Where are the Gods? Where is the High Council? It turns out that most of what they thought they knew was not completely true.
Thanks to Rattle the Stars and M.G. McCarty for an advance reader copy of “Embers From The Fall!” I can’t wait for the next book!
-Found family
-No spice
-LGBTQIA+ positive
-Elemental magic
As always, I’m going to find quotes to love.
“And the strength you carry is a gift. But it is also heavy.”
“Almost is a powerful and useless word.”
I adore a book with a map and even more one with a lil outline in the beginning describing key elements!
“Elaina Dairik ran through most of her life honoring The First and waiting for her Forging Day as most young Demanie did. Now, newly forged within the fires of the Gods and writhing with magic of the land, tradition and duty call her towards the Eastern Grove Training Center to train to fight against the Creatures of the Dark plaguing her universe. But her magic, and the Gods, are different than she expected.”
We are introduced to our MFC, Elaina Dairik, as she prepares for her forging where she will find out what her ember–her magic–would turn out to be. Once that process is complete, she’ll travel to the Eastern Grove Training Camp (not where her guardians had hoped (they are very sketchy) to begin her training. But first….she notices a tavern that wasn’t there before she received her magic. She meets someone there….keep him in the back of your mind.
Upon embarking, she makes a fast friend on the airbus, and also has a *moment* with another trainee. A moment that leaves her questioning. As she gets to know her fellow students, she forms a fast, tight friend group–and in this academy setting, they need all the good friends they can get. She also finds something she wasn’t looking for but now can’t do without!
Things get more dangerous and it becomes clear that they are not being told the truth about what is going on in their villages back home, and at the academy. It’s hard to know who is telling the truth and who can be trusted. Where are the Gods? Where is the High Council? It turns out that most of what they thought they knew was not completely true.
Thanks to Rattle the Stars and M.G. McCarty for an advance reader copy of “Embers From The Fall!” I can’t wait for the next book!
October 20, 2026
Cute and cozy read, perfect for lovers of such, as well as YA readers. The magic feels especially witchy in a wonderful way, while being interesting and honestly very unique!
I love the cute and cozy vibes between the FMC and her bonded. They were such a sweet and cute couple so full of tender innocence and a sweet, lovely naïveté in there, reaching out to each other. A truly sweet coupling of two young women coming into their own, not only with their magic, but in terms of their place in the world and with one another.
Everything about the relationships between people and this book felt very sweet. I think reading this as a young adult would have been ideal, because I think it’s so important for young people to see themselves represented in books, especially when it comes to heading off on one’s own and going into a new world of schooling and learning and training. I definitely would’ve loved to have spent even more time at the school because I was very intrigued by that aspect.
The magic system in this book was really unique, and it might just be because I had a cold and I have serious brain fog, but I struggled a little bit, trying to understand it, but wow, the ending. I didn’t see that coming at all and I can’t help it feel like book 2 is going to be even better and revealed so much about the magic system and that this series has such great potential going forward.
I would like to think the author and RTSPR for the opportunity to read this as an ARC reader. As always, it is an absolute joy and honor, and I can’t wait to see where this world goes.
I love the cute and cozy vibes between the FMC and her bonded. They were such a sweet and cute couple so full of tender innocence and a sweet, lovely naïveté in there, reaching out to each other. A truly sweet coupling of two young women coming into their own, not only with their magic, but in terms of their place in the world and with one another.
Everything about the relationships between people and this book felt very sweet. I think reading this as a young adult would have been ideal, because I think it’s so important for young people to see themselves represented in books, especially when it comes to heading off on one’s own and going into a new world of schooling and learning and training. I definitely would’ve loved to have spent even more time at the school because I was very intrigued by that aspect.
The magic system in this book was really unique, and it might just be because I had a cold and I have serious brain fog, but I struggled a little bit, trying to understand it, but wow, the ending. I didn’t see that coming at all and I can’t help it feel like book 2 is going to be even better and revealed so much about the magic system and that this series has such great potential going forward.
I would like to think the author and RTSPR for the opportunity to read this as an ARC reader. As always, it is an absolute joy and honor, and I can’t wait to see where this world goes.
Review of advance copy
Embers From the Fall by M. G. McCarty is a fantasy novel blending magic, adventure, romance, and coming-of-age elements. The story follows Elaina Dairik, whose newly awakened powers lead her to the Eastern Grove Training Center, where she must learn to control her abilities while confronting a growing threat from the Creatures of the Dark. As she questions the Gods and traditions she once trusted, her personal struggle becomes connected to a much larger conflict.
Elaina is a compelling protagonist, balancing fear and uncertainty with a growing determination to understand her abilities. Her relationships with Rosylyn, Siersha, Killian, and Mathis provide emotional depth and gradually help her become more open and self-aware. Her connection with Rosylyn is especially important, adding both tenderness and emotional complexity to her journey.
McCarty's writing creates an imaginative world filled with magic, mythology, and atmospheric settings. The pacing effectively balances character development with the growing mystery surrounding the Gods and the attacks. Themes of trust, identity, fear, and personal strength are thoughtfully woven throughout the story. A strong choice for readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy, magical training settings, sapphic romance, and immersive world-building.
Elaina is a compelling protagonist, balancing fear and uncertainty with a growing determination to understand her abilities. Her relationships with Rosylyn, Siersha, Killian, and Mathis provide emotional depth and gradually help her become more open and self-aware. Her connection with Rosylyn is especially important, adding both tenderness and emotional complexity to her journey.
McCarty's writing creates an imaginative world filled with magic, mythology, and atmospheric settings. The pacing effectively balances character development with the growing mystery surrounding the Gods and the attacks. Themes of trust, identity, fear, and personal strength are thoughtfully woven throughout the story. A strong choice for readers who enjoy character-driven fantasy, magical training settings, sapphic romance, and immersive world-building.
November 2, 2026
My Honest Review:
This book started off in both a heartwarming and sad way. I just want to say I love and adore Eggy—she is the best support system ever. I also loved how this story flowed, and I’m proud of myself for figuring out you-know-who is in fact not normal! I just knew it, but I kept saying "nah, nah," and then poof, I was right. My heart felt the same way: why her? She just started living, and now she has to save her world with her friends and future bonded. It was awesome to see that in their own way, everyone in the group was talented. I was very impressed with everyone, but Elaina and Rosylny are built different, and I love how each of their gifts complements each other. Also, I love Killian, if no one wants him, I do! He's so sweet and he is my favorite character, even with his limited screen time. This is an LGBTQ+ story, there isn't really spice, it's very plot-focused, and honestly we love that. Side note: I dislike Elaina's guardians, but I hope for their redemption because she deserves to have loving parents. They did love her at first, they just chose work over her and that’s sad. That's why I love Eggy. In all, I really liked the book. It’s only a 4.5 because I needed more info on the gods. Honestly, that's just a me issue, not the book, and I did my best not to spoil it!
This book started off in both a heartwarming and sad way. I just want to say I love and adore Eggy—she is the best support system ever. I also loved how this story flowed, and I’m proud of myself for figuring out you-know-who is in fact not normal! I just knew it, but I kept saying "nah, nah," and then poof, I was right. My heart felt the same way: why her? She just started living, and now she has to save her world with her friends and future bonded. It was awesome to see that in their own way, everyone in the group was talented. I was very impressed with everyone, but Elaina and Rosylny are built different, and I love how each of their gifts complements each other. Also, I love Killian, if no one wants him, I do! He's so sweet and he is my favorite character, even with his limited screen time. This is an LGBTQ+ story, there isn't really spice, it's very plot-focused, and honestly we love that. Side note: I dislike Elaina's guardians, but I hope for their redemption because she deserves to have loving parents. They did love her at first, they just chose work over her and that’s sad. That's why I love Eggy. In all, I really liked the book. It’s only a 4.5 because I needed more info on the gods. Honestly, that's just a me issue, not the book, and I did my best not to spoil it!
October 14, 2026
3 ⭐️
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for providing me with an ARC!
This was a cozy, fun coming-of-age story. The main character was sweet. She clearly resembled a young girl going off to college and struggling with her confidence and mental health. I found her relatable and wanted to protect her, but also slap some sense into her. Despite being labelled as adult, it definitely felt more YA. I couldn't help but picture the characters as teenagers. I was glad at how interesting I found the world and magic. That said, I wasn't entirely sure what the conflict was and was hoping for higher stakes and more explanation of the shadow threat. I was also excited about this being sapphic, even though friends-to-lovers is not my favourite trope. Unfortunately, I found Elaina and Rosylyn lacking in chemistry. While they were both likeable, I felt nothing for them as a couple. As for the writing, it was a bit clunky here and there, but still easily readable, and there were some great lines scattered throughout. Overall, I thought this was a decent fantasy debut!
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for providing me with an ARC!
This was a cozy, fun coming-of-age story. The main character was sweet. She clearly resembled a young girl going off to college and struggling with her confidence and mental health. I found her relatable and wanted to protect her, but also slap some sense into her. Despite being labelled as adult, it definitely felt more YA. I couldn't help but picture the characters as teenagers. I was glad at how interesting I found the world and magic. That said, I wasn't entirely sure what the conflict was and was hoping for higher stakes and more explanation of the shadow threat. I was also excited about this being sapphic, even though friends-to-lovers is not my favourite trope. Unfortunately, I found Elaina and Rosylyn lacking in chemistry. While they were both likeable, I felt nothing for them as a couple. As for the writing, it was a bit clunky here and there, but still easily readable, and there were some great lines scattered throughout. Overall, I thought this was a decent fantasy debut!
Review of advance copy
Thank you RTSPR for the ARC.
Yall, I really wanted to like this book. I was so excited to read it, but unfortunately it did not live up to how I hyped it up in my head.
I was honestly rather confused for a lot of the book and still wasn't fully "un-confused" even at the end of the book. I felt like there were parts that the story skipped forward too much or just felt rushed.
The FMC was confusing to me as a character and I was not able to connect with her because of that. She was both timid but also angry, then later on (with no real character growth) she was suddenly the confident one.
Additionally, I hoped to see more of the introduction and such for the friend group. It seemed like just day 1 everyone is instantly friends that they would risk their lives for them. That felt like a missed opportunity to show how they grew together as friends.
Unfortunately, it was 2.5☆ for me. I don't know that I would recommend, and I hate to say that. But not every book is for everyone.
Yall, I really wanted to like this book. I was so excited to read it, but unfortunately it did not live up to how I hyped it up in my head.
I was honestly rather confused for a lot of the book and still wasn't fully "un-confused" even at the end of the book. I felt like there were parts that the story skipped forward too much or just felt rushed.
The FMC was confusing to me as a character and I was not able to connect with her because of that. She was both timid but also angry, then later on (with no real character growth) she was suddenly the confident one.
Additionally, I hoped to see more of the introduction and such for the friend group. It seemed like just day 1 everyone is instantly friends that they would risk their lives for them. That felt like a missed opportunity to show how they grew together as friends.
Unfortunately, it was 2.5☆ for me. I don't know that I would recommend, and I hate to say that. But not every book is for everyone.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A fantastic, light-hearted, LGBTQ+ positive, fantasy romance that will melt your heart! This series is packed with magical powers, lovable characters, slow-burning tension, a new universe to immerse yourself in, and a powerful FMC with complex internal struggles. If you love a found-family trope, if you loved the Barbie Fairytopia movies, if you love a little mystery, if you love supportive friendships, and if you LOVE fantasy but really need a break from all of the dark romantasy these days, pick this one up! I was so pleasantly surprised by the quality of the writing and the extensive world-building that truly helped me see through the eyes of the FMC and feel the emotions building inside her! I really cannot wait for book 2!!! (Special thanks to Rattle the Stars PR and M. G. McCarty for allowing me the chance to be an ARC reader for this book!)
October 15, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the Ember description of magic. No spice, still yearning, turns out I just needed a break from fantasy that leaned so into the romance. There’s so much cool stuff going on from navigating new magic, academy life learning to fight the dark, guardians that let you down, and lots of character development. There’s still a spark when Elaine meets Rosylyn and I really liked the sweetness to their relationship. When things aren’t what you thought they would be how do you know who to trust and where to go?
“‘But you are not them.” She took both of Elaina’s hands in hers. “You are everything they are not. You try every day to become someone you believe is worthy of this world. You deserve peace, Elaina. They win if you let the anger fester. It will eat you alive.” 🥹
“‘But you are not them.” She took both of Elaina’s hands in hers. “You are everything they are not. You try every day to become someone you believe is worthy of this world. You deserve peace, Elaina. They win if you let the anger fester. It will eat you alive.” 🥹
October 27, 2026
I really enjoyed the magical world in this story. One of my favorite parts was the magic academy setting! I loved the classes, challenges, and watching the characters form friendships that eventually grew into a found family. I also appreciated how inclusive the world felt, both in its relationships and the language used throughout the story.
My main struggle was with the romantic connection. The relationship felt a little flat for me. I also think this would be a great beginner fantasy book for readers who want to dip their toes into the genre. As someone who reads fantasy often, I did feel that some aspects of the story and worldbuilding were a little simpler than what I'm used to.
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the early copy! My review reflects my honest opinion.
My main struggle was with the romantic connection. The relationship felt a little flat for me. I also think this would be a great beginner fantasy book for readers who want to dip their toes into the genre. As someone who reads fantasy often, I did feel that some aspects of the story and worldbuilding were a little simpler than what I'm used to.
Thank you to the author and Rattle the Stars PR for the early copy! My review reflects my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🍃ARC REVIEW🍃
This freaking book surprised me (In the best way) I honestly loved everything about this, the magic season was so unique in my opinion, the writing was fantastic, the plot was fantastic,the friendships 🖤 If you love…
* Elemental & Celestial Magic
* Yearning!
* Friends to Lovers
* Found Family
* Magic Academy
* No Spice
Then this is the book for you. I’ll be honest, I really wasn’t sure I was going to like this, going in knowing there was no spice (I know, I know I’m a spicy book girlie) it’s written in 3rd person (you know I struggle with) BUT BOY WAS I WRONG!! I’ve found that when I push myself out of my reading zones I tend to like the stuff I think I won’t and this is the perfect example of that. Always give the book a chance to change your mind and this one did! M.G’s writing was so easy to follow and it was beautiful! I found I really liked that there was no spice in this. I cannot wait for book 2!!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book comes out October 13th, 2026!! Add it to your TBR!
This freaking book surprised me (In the best way) I honestly loved everything about this, the magic season was so unique in my opinion, the writing was fantastic, the plot was fantastic,the friendships 🖤 If you love…
* Elemental & Celestial Magic
* Yearning!
* Friends to Lovers
* Found Family
* Magic Academy
* No Spice
Then this is the book for you. I’ll be honest, I really wasn’t sure I was going to like this, going in knowing there was no spice (I know, I know I’m a spicy book girlie) it’s written in 3rd person (you know I struggle with) BUT BOY WAS I WRONG!! I’ve found that when I push myself out of my reading zones I tend to like the stuff I think I won’t and this is the perfect example of that. Always give the book a chance to change your mind and this one did! M.G’s writing was so easy to follow and it was beautiful! I found I really liked that there was no spice in this. I cannot wait for book 2!!
4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book comes out October 13th, 2026!! Add it to your TBR!
October 16, 2026
"Almost is a powerful and useless word, Goose."
A unique and exciting fantasy read. Found family, magic, political tensions, and creative character growth have me wanting more.
I would have really enjoyed reading more of Elaina and her friends as they trained. We get to tag along as each character grows through struggles, frustrations, and real life atrocities.
I love how every character, including the main character has to work at their studies and magic and don't always get it right the first time.Something about this unique view makes the characters and their story that much more to me. Emotional strings are pulled throughout this book right up to the end.
A unique and exciting fantasy read. Found family, magic, political tensions, and creative character growth have me wanting more.
I would have really enjoyed reading more of Elaina and her friends as they trained. We get to tag along as each character grows through struggles, frustrations, and real life atrocities.
I love how every character, including the main character has to work at their studies and magic and don't always get it right the first time.Something about this unique view makes the characters and their story that much more to me. Emotional strings are pulled throughout this book right up to the end.
October 17, 2026
Okay… I was hooked from the beginning. Elaina had me invested in her story before I even had time to emotionally prepare myself.
The middle did slow down a little for me, and I found the pacing dragged in places, but then it picked back up and the ending had me sat there like, “Okay, now we’re getting somewhere.”
I’m genuinely invested in Elaina and her group and need to know where their journey takes them next. There’s definitely more to uncover, and I’m absolutely here for it.
Basically: slow middle, strong comeback, and now I’m emotionally attached to these people. So obviously I need the next book.
The middle did slow down a little for me, and I found the pacing dragged in places, but then it picked back up and the ending had me sat there like, “Okay, now we’re getting somewhere.”
I’m genuinely invested in Elaina and her group and need to know where their journey takes them next. There’s definitely more to uncover, and I’m absolutely here for it.
Basically: slow middle, strong comeback, and now I’m emotionally attached to these people. So obviously I need the next book.
October 8, 2026
Thank you Rattle the Stars PR and MG McCarty for providing this eARC in return for my honest review!
4⭐️ This was a beautiful fantasy that balanced the cozy found family aspects with the heavier weight of impending conflicts. The magic system was so unique and I loved how descriptive the author was in how it felt to use the magic. There was also something so cool about how the Demanie came to be and how they were chosen by their Guardians.
I also really enjoyed watching Elaina and Roslyn grow closer and their relationship was so sweet. I loved that they had a close group of friends and while they were close, they all were different.
4⭐️ This was a beautiful fantasy that balanced the cozy found family aspects with the heavier weight of impending conflicts. The magic system was so unique and I loved how descriptive the author was in how it felt to use the magic. There was also something so cool about how the Demanie came to be and how they were chosen by their Guardians.
I also really enjoyed watching Elaina and Roslyn grow closer and their relationship was so sweet. I loved that they had a close group of friends and while they were close, they all were different.
October 8, 2026
I received an advance copy and I’m leaving an honest review.
Embers From The Fall is such a lovely, well written story and completely pulled me in. The atmosphere, the emotions, the friendships and the way the story unfolds all came together so beautifully with the fmc learning about herself and her new powers. It was refreshing to have a book focus on plot without the spice.
A magical fantasy with plenty of adventure, romance, new found family, friends to lovers, with magical academia setting. Solid 4 stars ⭐️
Embers From The Fall is such a lovely, well written story and completely pulled me in. The atmosphere, the emotions, the friendships and the way the story unfolds all came together so beautifully with the fmc learning about herself and her new powers. It was refreshing to have a book focus on plot without the spice.
A magical fantasy with plenty of adventure, romance, new found family, friends to lovers, with magical academia setting. Solid 4 stars ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to RTSPR for the opportunity to read this book early! I really enjoyed the plot and world building, and the magic system in this book was interesting. The part that kept it from being a love for me was the lack of depth with the characters and their relationships. Each interaction seemed a little artificial to me, and lacked the complexities that make them believable. I would definitely give book two a try, just not sure if I'd need a shelf trophy for this one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2026
"We don't have a lot of time. Will you help us?"
This book took me a little to get into. Its brand new so there is a lot of world building and character development. That being said I loved it. Elaina grows quite a bit even though shes young in terms of her species. Multiple worlds. Light versus dark. Definitely more than they thought could happen. I cannot wait to find out what happens next
This book took me a little to get into. Its brand new so there is a lot of world building and character development. That being said I loved it. Elaina grows quite a bit even though shes young in terms of her species. Multiple worlds. Light versus dark. Definitely more than they thought could happen. I cannot wait to find out what happens next
November 1, 2026
Now THIS is unique fantasy! I was hooked from the very beginning-- just by the magic system and the world building!! Truly like nothing i've ever read before.
The characters are lovely and their journey felt fully immersive.
Found family is my favorite trope, and this book FILLED MY CUP. I cannot wait to read more!
Thank you to Rattle the Stars Pr and the author for the copy of this book!
The characters are lovely and their journey felt fully immersive.
Found family is my favorite trope, and this book FILLED MY CUP. I cannot wait to read more!
Thank you to Rattle the Stars Pr and the author for the copy of this book!
October 13, 2026
Definitely not what I was expecting. It was a little slow to start but once it picked up the twists and reveals kept coming. There is a very interesting magic system and ended in an unexpected way. Overall a good read.
October 19, 2026
Thank you for the ARC read!
Things I loved:
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Magic
- Found family
Unfortunately, I didn’t feel like the mix of magic and gods and sci-fi melded well together. It felt like a free-for-all with these genres.
Things I loved:
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Magic
- Found family
Unfortunately, I didn’t feel like the mix of magic and gods and sci-fi melded well together. It felt like a free-for-all with these genres.
October 25, 2026
Thank you so much to M.G. McCarty and Rattle the Stars for the opportunity to read this ARC.
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed how the magic was described and the academy aspect of it. It was different than what I am used to. Definitely a good fantasy.
I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed how the magic was described and the academy aspect of it. It was different than what I am used to. Definitely a good fantasy.
October 28, 2026
Thank you for this ARC opportunity! I find the premise to be very interesting! I always love meddling gods, and the heavy emphasis on found family and flawed persons. Also, hats off on a sweet sapphic slow burn within a dystopian fantasy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a hard one for me to rate because my reactions were so hit one second and total miss the next. The first half of the book was too slow and the ending felt rushed. The MFC was meek but competitive and angry then confident then meek all over again. The magic system was wonderful - until the end.
Thank you to Rattle the Stars PR for the Advanced Reader Copy.
Thank you to Rattle the Stars PR for the Advanced Reader Copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC REVIEW✨
this book was a beautifully written fantasy.
i loved all the friendships and how they helped the fmc figure out who she was.
the fmc with fresh powers and learning how to use them while also still trying to figure out who she is.
it was an empowering read full of mythology, elemental magic, celestial magic, and a magic training camp. it has everything a great fantasy needs to thrive.
✨RELEASES 10/13✨
this book was a beautifully written fantasy.
i loved all the friendships and how they helped the fmc figure out who she was.
the fmc with fresh powers and learning how to use them while also still trying to figure out who she is.
it was an empowering read full of mythology, elemental magic, celestial magic, and a magic training camp. it has everything a great fantasy needs to thrive.
✨RELEASES 10/13✨
Review of advance copy received from Author
'Embers From The Fall' was such a fun, addictive read! The world building and plot building in the first half of the book was (to me) slow but NOT in a bad way - it was, in my opinion, absolutely necessary to build up to the action-packed 2nd half and the EXPLOSIVELY SURPRISING ending that you will NOT see coming!
The overall pacing, flow, plot development, and character development throughout the entire book was impeccable - especially Elaina's development from start to finish both personally AND within her relationships (ummm hello, her & Roslyn are perfect!!). I absolutely loved watching her blossom through insecurity and fear to bloom into her confident self.
If you’re looking for the perfect magic-based romantasy that'll leave you saying "OK AND WHAT HAPPENS NEXT???"...then make sure 'Embers From The Fall' finds its way to the top of your TBR!!!
The overall pacing, flow, plot development, and character development throughout the entire book was impeccable - especially Elaina's development from start to finish both personally AND within her relationships (ummm hello, her & Roslyn are perfect!!). I absolutely loved watching her blossom through insecurity and fear to bloom into her confident self.
If you’re looking for the perfect magic-based romantasy that'll leave you saying "OK AND WHAT HAPPENS NEXT???"...then make sure 'Embers From The Fall' finds its way to the top of your TBR!!!
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