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The Ashen Touch Trilogy #3
The Obsidian Shard
Will Sephy Sinclair Make The Ultimate Sacrifice In Time To Save Mortaria And Reclaim Her Father's Throne?SYNOPSISOne month has elapsed since Pandora turned out the sun, and things in the mortal world are shifting. Sephy has been patrolling, preventing demon attacks when she can, but things at the estate are in chaos.
Luce is beyond reach, consumed by the darkness, and while Xion feels like he owes her help, he’s beginning to wonder if she’ll take it.
Then, with the discovery of a solution to tame Lucifer’s darkness, the cogs of fate sputter into motion. For Pandora might have the throne, but the loyalty of The Demon Lords remains elusive yet vital to her success.
Will Sephy step into the arena and fight for the kingdom that’s hers by birthright? Or is the sacrifice she’s expected to make just too great?
Spicy, slow burn, Greek Mythology inspired Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as The Mercy Thompson Series, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Dark Hunters series by Sherilynn Kenyon.
Luce is beyond reach, consumed by the darkness, and while Xion feels like he owes her help, he’s beginning to wonder if she’ll take it.
Then, with the discovery of a solution to tame Lucifer’s darkness, the cogs of fate sputter into motion. For Pandora might have the throne, but the loyalty of The Demon Lords remains elusive yet vital to her success.
Will Sephy step into the arena and fight for the kingdom that’s hers by birthright? Or is the sacrifice she’s expected to make just too great?
Spicy, slow burn, Greek Mythology inspired Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as The Mercy Thompson Series, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Dark Hunters series by Sherilynn Kenyon.
- GenresFantasy
515 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 8, 2018
51 people want to read
About the author
Kristy Nicolle
25 books215 followersHi, I’m Kristy Nicolle, a 27-year-old British writer achieving freedom from the pain of my Ehlers Danlos Syndrome diagnosis by bringing fantasy worlds to life for my readers. I currently enjoy spending time in my fuzzy PJs with my kitty arch nemesis, Moo, and love all things mermaids, unicorns, and glitter! My books centre around high detail, high action fantasy worlds, full of badass female characters who love to get steamy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 16, 2025
This book was dark and emotional yet satisfying and builds excitement for the next Trilogy (and ultimately Book 10).
This book starts and focuses primarly on Sephy and Luce both doing some internal soul searching and fighting their demons (literal and figurative), trying to find where they fit in life now and what direction they need/want to move in. Balancing their worlds between black and white where most people "end up in a muted state of guilt ridden grey."
All 3 of the characters, whose POV we primarily get, go through monumental growth and development. I can't believe how far Sephy has come since the first book in this trilogy, the shift Luce makes, or the undying love Xion continues to flame for Sephy despite everything. I will say that Sephys dream in chapter 19 scared me big time and had me out loud saying "no no no" - it couldn't all possibly change like that and I was so relieved when it was just a dream.
I've also loved watching the nurturing and protective found family relationship between Sephy and Jules throughout the series.❤️ While I picture Jules as more of a "Q" or "Alfred" type character, there is a profound sense of pride he takes in Sephy that is so well described and built upon throughout the books. It was interesting to see Haedes also pick up and mirror some of these fatherly characteristics as the story progressed through the books, as his love for his true daughter flourished. I would have loved for more Haedes POV chapters as he's one of my favourite book characters, but that's just a personal wish.
I absolutely loved this trilogy! Highly recommend for those looking for a Romantasy with Greek Mythology structure.
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book starts and focuses primarly on Sephy and Luce both doing some internal soul searching and fighting their demons (literal and figurative), trying to find where they fit in life now and what direction they need/want to move in. Balancing their worlds between black and white where most people "end up in a muted state of guilt ridden grey."
All 3 of the characters, whose POV we primarily get, go through monumental growth and development. I can't believe how far Sephy has come since the first book in this trilogy, the shift Luce makes, or the undying love Xion continues to flame for Sephy despite everything. I will say that Sephys dream in chapter 19 scared me big time and had me out loud saying "no no no" - it couldn't all possibly change like that and I was so relieved when it was just a dream.
I've also loved watching the nurturing and protective found family relationship between Sephy and Jules throughout the series.❤️ While I picture Jules as more of a "Q" or "Alfred" type character, there is a profound sense of pride he takes in Sephy that is so well described and built upon throughout the books. It was interesting to see Haedes also pick up and mirror some of these fatherly characteristics as the story progressed through the books, as his love for his true daughter flourished. I would have loved for more Haedes POV chapters as he's one of my favourite book characters, but that's just a personal wish.
I absolutely loved this trilogy! Highly recommend for those looking for a Romantasy with Greek Mythology structure.
Thank you to the author for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2025
Kristy Nicolle’s “The Obsidian Shard” is the incredible conclusion to her spicy fantasy romance series, The Ashen Touch Trilogy, which follows the powerful demi-goddess Sephy Sinclair and her allies as they work to take back Mortaria from Pandora and the Demon Lords.
This book was honestly such a fantastic read! Sephy has been through so much, and I personally think that her character development over the course of the series was very well-written. She’s such a strong and sassy heroine, and even though she doesn’t believe it at times, her heart is in the right place.
I also want to talk about Luce, aka Lucifer, and Xion, Sephy’s half-demon love interest. Luce and Xion both go through a hard time in this book, although it was for different reasons. I thought their struggles were written in a way that was raw and gritty and very believable, and I think that goes to show how much depth there is to Kristy Nicolle’s writing.
I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters yet, so finishing this series feels a little bittersweet. There’s so many reasons why Kristy Nicolle has quickly become one of my favorite fantasy romance authors, and this is definitely one of them! All in all, I’m really glad I decided to read this series, and I would definitely recommend it to fans of Greek mythology inspired stories.
This book was honestly such a fantastic read! Sephy has been through so much, and I personally think that her character development over the course of the series was very well-written. She’s such a strong and sassy heroine, and even though she doesn’t believe it at times, her heart is in the right place.
I also want to talk about Luce, aka Lucifer, and Xion, Sephy’s half-demon love interest. Luce and Xion both go through a hard time in this book, although it was for different reasons. I thought their struggles were written in a way that was raw and gritty and very believable, and I think that goes to show how much depth there is to Kristy Nicolle’s writing.
I’m not quite ready to say goodbye to these characters yet, so finishing this series feels a little bittersweet. There’s so many reasons why Kristy Nicolle has quickly become one of my favorite fantasy romance authors, and this is definitely one of them! All in all, I’m really glad I decided to read this series, and I would definitely recommend it to fans of Greek mythology inspired stories.
January 13, 2019
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 4.5/5
This review contains spoilers from previous books but not this book :-)
Sephy Sinclair has been through a lot. First, she finds out that she is the daughter of none other than the ruler of the underworld -- Hades. She is nearly killed by the Demon Lords and Pandora, who are scheming to take over Mortaria. Then she is actually killed by a measly human using Sephy's own opal blade. She struggles to adapt to the world (and Mortaria without her father, who gets killed by Pandora) when she is painfully resurrected by Luce. She must deal with the darkness that has been brought out in Luce and work to help restore her to the way she was before. Amidst all this, she is falling in love and does not want to admit it.
In this last installment, Sephy struggles against the realization that she must do something about the impending apocalypse. With the Hades and the Mortarian sun gone, the balance between worlds is precarious, and Pandora continues to scheme and plot. When Sephy is attacked in her own home, she realizes that, no matter how much she wants to be just a "normal girl," she is needed desperately by the world to restore order...
I'll admit I fiercely disliked Sephy in the first book. She was selfish and not really that nice of a person. She has gone through incredible character growth throughout this series though. She never asked to inherit Hades's powers. She never asked to bear the responsibility of defeating Pandora, but she handles herself with much more grace in this book. She is less whiny.
The relationship between her and Xion is heartbreaking throughout the entire series, as first she finds herself attracted to him but pushes him away, saying she will never love him. He constantly brings out the best in her, and he is patient and loyal throughout. This book tore my heart open with Xion's ultimate fate, but what is a book if it doesn't elicit strong emotions?
I also love Luce's transformation through the series. She starts out as a very pleasant, friendly person who struggles from time to time with the darkness inside. When she succumbs, it is easy to understand why. We understand her motivation, but Thane does not, and her departure is incredibly selfish. I hate Thane for what she did, though it is also understandable.
Hades is probably one of my absolute favorite characters, and I missed seeing more from him in this book. I could honestly read an entire book from his POV. :-) I find the Higher Plains fascinating, and I loved how we did get to experience a bit of his presence near the end.
Jules is, of course, dependable and reliable as ever. I always enjoy reading anything about him. Sephy is surrounded by such an amazing, loving, caring group of people. I was honestly very happy with the ending to this book, and ending a series satisfactorily is a challenge for any author!
The events of this book are frankly mind-blowing. Sephy and the rest are like old friends, and each page was honestly thrilling.
I found Pandora to be sort of a puzzling villain. She came in a sort of black horse, and no one really took her seriously. But then she managed to pull off some pretty incredible and terrible things thanks to the box and the fickle loyalty of the Demon Lords. I found her to be a weaker villain in this book -- falling for stuff she shouldn't, trusting the Demon Lords too much (until it was too late), and not considering Sephy a serious threat. Her fate was also sort of confusing to me. I have trouble keeping track of where people can go and what powers they have. The last scene with her was pretty funny though :-)
I thought the section about them staying in a hotel and going to McDonald's was hilarious, and a much needed breath of fresh air after all of the intense action they have to go through.
I agree with the other reviewers that this is Kristy Nicolle's best work yet. I have the Tidal Kiss Trilogy sitting on my shelf and hope to crack that open soon. I am also looking forward to her next trilogy.
Rating: 4.5/5
This review contains spoilers from previous books but not this book :-)
Sephy Sinclair has been through a lot. First, she finds out that she is the daughter of none other than the ruler of the underworld -- Hades. She is nearly killed by the Demon Lords and Pandora, who are scheming to take over Mortaria. Then she is actually killed by a measly human using Sephy's own opal blade. She struggles to adapt to the world (and Mortaria without her father, who gets killed by Pandora) when she is painfully resurrected by Luce. She must deal with the darkness that has been brought out in Luce and work to help restore her to the way she was before. Amidst all this, she is falling in love and does not want to admit it.
In this last installment, Sephy struggles against the realization that she must do something about the impending apocalypse. With the Hades and the Mortarian sun gone, the balance between worlds is precarious, and Pandora continues to scheme and plot. When Sephy is attacked in her own home, she realizes that, no matter how much she wants to be just a "normal girl," she is needed desperately by the world to restore order...
I'll admit I fiercely disliked Sephy in the first book. She was selfish and not really that nice of a person. She has gone through incredible character growth throughout this series though. She never asked to inherit Hades's powers. She never asked to bear the responsibility of defeating Pandora, but she handles herself with much more grace in this book. She is less whiny.
The relationship between her and Xion is heartbreaking throughout the entire series, as first she finds herself attracted to him but pushes him away, saying she will never love him. He constantly brings out the best in her, and he is patient and loyal throughout. This book tore my heart open with Xion's ultimate fate, but what is a book if it doesn't elicit strong emotions?
I also love Luce's transformation through the series. She starts out as a very pleasant, friendly person who struggles from time to time with the darkness inside. When she succumbs, it is easy to understand why. We understand her motivation, but Thane does not, and her departure is incredibly selfish. I hate Thane for what she did, though it is also understandable.
Hades is probably one of my absolute favorite characters, and I missed seeing more from him in this book. I could honestly read an entire book from his POV. :-) I find the Higher Plains fascinating, and I loved how we did get to experience a bit of his presence near the end.
Jules is, of course, dependable and reliable as ever. I always enjoy reading anything about him. Sephy is surrounded by such an amazing, loving, caring group of people. I was honestly very happy with the ending to this book, and ending a series satisfactorily is a challenge for any author!
The events of this book are frankly mind-blowing. Sephy and the rest are like old friends, and each page was honestly thrilling.
I found Pandora to be sort of a puzzling villain. She came in a sort of black horse, and no one really took her seriously. But then she managed to pull off some pretty incredible and terrible things thanks to the box and the fickle loyalty of the Demon Lords. I found her to be a weaker villain in this book -- falling for stuff she shouldn't, trusting the Demon Lords too much (until it was too late), and not considering Sephy a serious threat. Her fate was also sort of confusing to me. I have trouble keeping track of where people can go and what powers they have. The last scene with her was pretty funny though :-)
I thought the section about them staying in a hotel and going to McDonald's was hilarious, and a much needed breath of fresh air after all of the intense action they have to go through.
I agree with the other reviewers that this is Kristy Nicolle's best work yet. I have the Tidal Kiss Trilogy sitting on my shelf and hope to crack that open soon. I am also looking forward to her next trilogy.
December 28, 2025
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. Very enjoyable conclusion(ish) to the trilogy.
The third novel of the Ashen Touch Trilogy, the Obsidian Shard, sets the scene for what is sure to be an epic battle in Kristy’s upcoming 10th novel- which ties all 3 of her trilogies together. After a huge battle between Sephy and Pandora, and their respective retinues- Mortaria is in upheaval.
Pandora, who has been ruling Mortaria since the Onyx Hourglass, is defeated and Sephy has been crowned queen, Pandora has been exiled to the mortal realm, Luce is back to her old self, mostly, after being consumed by darkness, and several other vital characters are now residing in the Higher Planes. Relationships are in turmoil.
I’m excited to see how the story resolves, and more importantly, hoping Sephy and Xion, and Luce and Thane get their HEAs.
I was thinking that the trilogy would feel more resolved- I know a final tie-in book is coming, but it made the Obsidian Shard feel more like a bridge book than the completion of a trilogy, which leads to this being 4.5 stars instead of 5.
If you enjoy a good urban fantasy and ancient mythology, along with a sassy FMC and great secondary characters, I’d recommend the Ashen Touch Trilogy.
The third novel of the Ashen Touch Trilogy, the Obsidian Shard, sets the scene for what is sure to be an epic battle in Kristy’s upcoming 10th novel- which ties all 3 of her trilogies together. After a huge battle between Sephy and Pandora, and their respective retinues- Mortaria is in upheaval.
Pandora, who has been ruling Mortaria since the Onyx Hourglass, is defeated and Sephy has been crowned queen, Pandora has been exiled to the mortal realm, Luce is back to her old self, mostly, after being consumed by darkness, and several other vital characters are now residing in the Higher Planes. Relationships are in turmoil.
I’m excited to see how the story resolves, and more importantly, hoping Sephy and Xion, and Luce and Thane get their HEAs.
I was thinking that the trilogy would feel more resolved- I know a final tie-in book is coming, but it made the Obsidian Shard feel more like a bridge book than the completion of a trilogy, which leads to this being 4.5 stars instead of 5.
If you enjoy a good urban fantasy and ancient mythology, along with a sassy FMC and great secondary characters, I’d recommend the Ashen Touch Trilogy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2025
get ready to be wrecked
Quotes:
‘I’ve been to hell and back and all I got was this lousy t-shirt’
⸻
Quick Review:
⭐️ 5/5 stars – This finale wrecked me in all the right ways. It’s dark, emotional, and mythologically chaotic with just enough spice to keep your heart racing. I’m still recovering—but it was so worth it.
🌶️ 3/5 Spice Rating – The spice is open door, emotionally intense, and timed to perfection. It’s not over-the-top graphic, but you’re definitely getting all the steam with a side of soul-crushing tension. Think “burn the world for you” energy with just enough detail to make your heart race.
🖤 4/5 Darkness Rating – Check trigger warnings. This one definitely walks on the darker side, with themes like grief, manipulation, power plays, and emotional trauma woven throughout.
⸻
What I Loved:
First off—the chapter titles? Chef’s kiss. I live clever title, and Kristy Nicolle always delivers. I really loved how she didn’t just give us the same ol’ gods we’ve seen a million times. She totally bent the norm and made them feel fresh, dangerous, and way more layered than I expected. Oh, and the world-building? Kristy doesn’t just build a world, she basically drops you into it, hands you a sword, and says “Good luck.” You’re not just reading about this world, you’re fully living in it (and maybe a little worried you won’t make it out emotionally intact).
⸻
The Story (No Spoilers!):
Okay, so it’s basically chaos, magic, and emotional whiplash in the best way. The world is still reeling from everything that’s gone down, and our girl Sephy is just out here trying to keep things from totally falling apart. There’s darkness, danger, and some serious “should I scream or swoon?” energy. The stakes are high, the emotions are even higher, and it’s all building toward something massive. Like, you’re gonna need snacks and probably a stress ball.
⸻
Final thoughts:
I closed this book feeling emotionally wrecked but weirdly satisfied. It was intense, raw in places, and full of that mythological messiness I’ve come to love in this series. Some moments had me staring at the page like “did that really just happen?” and others had me quietly spiraling in the best way. It’s one of those endings that doesn’t tie everything up in a perfect bow—but that’s kind of what makes it stick. I’m still unpacking some of the emotional punches, and honestly, I’m not totally okay… but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. And honestly? I am unwell.
Quotes:
‘I’ve been to hell and back and all I got was this lousy t-shirt’
⸻
Quick Review:
⭐️ 5/5 stars – This finale wrecked me in all the right ways. It’s dark, emotional, and mythologically chaotic with just enough spice to keep your heart racing. I’m still recovering—but it was so worth it.
🌶️ 3/5 Spice Rating – The spice is open door, emotionally intense, and timed to perfection. It’s not over-the-top graphic, but you’re definitely getting all the steam with a side of soul-crushing tension. Think “burn the world for you” energy with just enough detail to make your heart race.
🖤 4/5 Darkness Rating – Check trigger warnings. This one definitely walks on the darker side, with themes like grief, manipulation, power plays, and emotional trauma woven throughout.
⸻
What I Loved:
First off—the chapter titles? Chef’s kiss. I live clever title, and Kristy Nicolle always delivers. I really loved how she didn’t just give us the same ol’ gods we’ve seen a million times. She totally bent the norm and made them feel fresh, dangerous, and way more layered than I expected. Oh, and the world-building? Kristy doesn’t just build a world, she basically drops you into it, hands you a sword, and says “Good luck.” You’re not just reading about this world, you’re fully living in it (and maybe a little worried you won’t make it out emotionally intact).
⸻
The Story (No Spoilers!):
Okay, so it’s basically chaos, magic, and emotional whiplash in the best way. The world is still reeling from everything that’s gone down, and our girl Sephy is just out here trying to keep things from totally falling apart. There’s darkness, danger, and some serious “should I scream or swoon?” energy. The stakes are high, the emotions are even higher, and it’s all building toward something massive. Like, you’re gonna need snacks and probably a stress ball.
⸻
Final thoughts:
I closed this book feeling emotionally wrecked but weirdly satisfied. It was intense, raw in places, and full of that mythological messiness I’ve come to love in this series. Some moments had me staring at the page like “did that really just happen?” and others had me quietly spiraling in the best way. It’s one of those endings that doesn’t tie everything up in a perfect bow—but that’s kind of what makes it stick. I’m still unpacking some of the emotional punches, and honestly, I’m not totally okay… but I wouldn’t change a thing.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my honest review. And honestly? I am unwell.
December 17, 2018
Pandora has taken Mortaria with the help of the Demon Lords, but all is not as perfect for her as it seems. She needs their support to continue, but she lacks the power to hold her position on the throne. The mortal world has turned into a frightening place for Sephy, he cohorts, and humans alike. Luce has opened a can of worms that has allowed the darkness to attempt complete control over her, making her impossible to trust or bargain with. Xion is working his hardest, trying to gain some ground with Sephy and get through to Luce, both situations he feels responsible for. They are all trying to find the one thing that will either give Pandora the power she needs or stop her from gaining power. And if they find it, will the cost be too much for all of them?
There wasn't a moment of this story that was predictable or didn't surprise me. This author has such a twisted sense of humor and a dark imagination. I can't fathom where her ideas originate, but wherever they come from, she gleans pure gold. There were moments that had me laughing out loud while others had me holding my breath. I shed tears several times, and cheered on the heroes as they worked to discover what it would take to save the mortal world and stop Pandora from tipping the balance and destroying every plane of existence. Even after finishing the story, my heart is still in my throat, and I'm trying to find the meaning of it all. This trilogy has been dark and consuming from the first book, and I wait on pins and needles for the next thing she writes.
There wasn't a moment of this story that was predictable or didn't surprise me. This author has such a twisted sense of humor and a dark imagination. I can't fathom where her ideas originate, but wherever they come from, she gleans pure gold. There were moments that had me laughing out loud while others had me holding my breath. I shed tears several times, and cheered on the heroes as they worked to discover what it would take to save the mortal world and stop Pandora from tipping the balance and destroying every plane of existence. Even after finishing the story, my heart is still in my throat, and I'm trying to find the meaning of it all. This trilogy has been dark and consuming from the first book, and I wait on pins and needles for the next thing she writes.
July 9, 2025
The Obsidian Shard by Kristy Nicolle (@authorkristynicolle)
—-
Will Sephy Sinclair Make The Ultimate Sacrifice In Time To Save Mortaria And Reclaim Her Father's Throne?
One month has elapsed since Pandora turned out the sun, and things in the mortal world are shifting.
Sephy has been patrolling, preventing demon attacks when she can, but things at the estate are in chaos. Luce is beyond reach, consumed by the darkness, and while Xion feels like he owes her help, he's beginning to wonder if she'll take it. Then, with the discovery of a solution to tame Lucifer's darkness, the cogs of fate sputter into motion.
For Pandora might have the throne, but the loyalty of The Demon Lords remains elusive yet vital to her success. Will Sephy step into the arena and fight for the kingdom that's hers by birthright? Or is the sacrifice she's expected to make just too great? Spicy, slow burn, Greek Mythology inspired Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as The Mercy Thompson Series, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Dark Hunters series by Sherilynn Kenyon.
—-
This is the final book in the trilogy but the sixth book in the series overall. Thank you for letting me arc read this beautiful well written book! I really appreciate it! If you are a huge fan of Gods, Goddesses, etc this book is for you! I definitely give this book a five out five stars! I loved it!
—-
Will Sephy Sinclair Make The Ultimate Sacrifice In Time To Save Mortaria And Reclaim Her Father's Throne?
One month has elapsed since Pandora turned out the sun, and things in the mortal world are shifting.
Sephy has been patrolling, preventing demon attacks when she can, but things at the estate are in chaos. Luce is beyond reach, consumed by the darkness, and while Xion feels like he owes her help, he's beginning to wonder if she'll take it. Then, with the discovery of a solution to tame Lucifer's darkness, the cogs of fate sputter into motion.
For Pandora might have the throne, but the loyalty of The Demon Lords remains elusive yet vital to her success. Will Sephy step into the arena and fight for the kingdom that's hers by birthright? Or is the sacrifice she's expected to make just too great? Spicy, slow burn, Greek Mythology inspired Fantasy Romance, perfect for lovers of Adult Fantasy Romance with immersive worldbuilding such as The Mercy Thompson Series, Buffy The Vampire Slayer, and The Dark Hunters series by Sherilynn Kenyon.
—-
This is the final book in the trilogy but the sixth book in the series overall. Thank you for letting me arc read this beautiful well written book! I really appreciate it! If you are a huge fan of Gods, Goddesses, etc this book is for you! I definitely give this book a five out five stars! I loved it!
January 1, 2024
I received a free copy of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I honestly thought my heart couldn’t be broken any more than it was in The Onyx Hourglass, and then Kristy decided to STOMP ALL OVER IT. I loved seeing Sephy and Xion’s relationship become even stronger, Sephy’s weaknesses slowly being pushed away by Xion’s love. Sephy turned out to be even stronger than anyone (apart from Jules) ever imagined, and I love that for her! Sephy has come so far from the girl we first met in The Opal Blade and has such an amazing character arc. We see a lot more of the ‘old’ Luce in this book which I really enjoyed, and she actually showed some really important lessons I think we should all listen to! It’s impossible to mention a few other characters without spoiling a lot, so you’ll just have to read it!
At 586 pages, this took me just under 10 hours to read. Highly recommend it to any fantasy and romance lover, or anyone who loves to get their hearts smashed into a million pieces.
9/10
I honestly thought my heart couldn’t be broken any more than it was in The Onyx Hourglass, and then Kristy decided to STOMP ALL OVER IT. I loved seeing Sephy and Xion’s relationship become even stronger, Sephy’s weaknesses slowly being pushed away by Xion’s love. Sephy turned out to be even stronger than anyone (apart from Jules) ever imagined, and I love that for her! Sephy has come so far from the girl we first met in The Opal Blade and has such an amazing character arc. We see a lot more of the ‘old’ Luce in this book which I really enjoyed, and she actually showed some really important lessons I think we should all listen to! It’s impossible to mention a few other characters without spoiling a lot, so you’ll just have to read it!
At 586 pages, this took me just under 10 hours to read. Highly recommend it to any fantasy and romance lover, or anyone who loves to get their hearts smashed into a million pieces.
9/10
December 11, 2018
The Obsidian Shard - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Only four short weeks after turning out the Sun, Pandora is wondering if it was the right move, in Kristy Nicolle's amazing conclusion to the fantastic Ashen Touch Trilogy, The Obsidian Shard.
The Dark Lords are shifting alliance and Luce is unreachable due to grieving and the power of the darkness of Lucifer himself that is encroaching on the Estate, where Seph Sinclair patrols the dark streets, trying to destroy the chaos threatening Pandora's very throne. Xion has made an offer of help, but will Pandora accept it?
A possible solution may come from her and Luce's shared history, but will it be enough - or in time?
Read The Obsidian Shard (and the two books before it) to be taken on the fantasy adventure of a life time - it's one you'll never forget!! Get your copy today and tell all your friends too!
Only four short weeks after turning out the Sun, Pandora is wondering if it was the right move, in Kristy Nicolle's amazing conclusion to the fantastic Ashen Touch Trilogy, The Obsidian Shard.
The Dark Lords are shifting alliance and Luce is unreachable due to grieving and the power of the darkness of Lucifer himself that is encroaching on the Estate, where Seph Sinclair patrols the dark streets, trying to destroy the chaos threatening Pandora's very throne. Xion has made an offer of help, but will Pandora accept it?
A possible solution may come from her and Luce's shared history, but will it be enough - or in time?
Read The Obsidian Shard (and the two books before it) to be taken on the fantasy adventure of a life time - it's one you'll never forget!! Get your copy today and tell all your friends too!
June 29, 2025
Spicy, slow burn, adult, fantasy, romance, Greek mythology, world building, what a conclusion in Ashen trilogy.
This set up for an upcoming battle time the trilogies altogether.
Pandora has been rolling moratoria. Everything falling apart. Sephy struggles. She has to do something about the coming apocalypse, keep the world from falling aprt. The balance hanging on the thread with the moratoria sun gone.
The finale is dark, emotional, magical, chaotic, perfection, with enough spice to keep the heat. Open door spice, in the world for you vibes, please check the trigger warnings. This conclusion to the Ashton trilogy is definitely a bit darker.
⚠️ some TW
Grief
Power plays
Manipulation
Emotional trauma
The stakes are high.. all building to something massive.
I 💯 recommend this entire series I’m loving it 😍
This set up for an upcoming battle time the trilogies altogether.
Pandora has been rolling moratoria. Everything falling apart. Sephy struggles. She has to do something about the coming apocalypse, keep the world from falling aprt. The balance hanging on the thread with the moratoria sun gone.
The finale is dark, emotional, magical, chaotic, perfection, with enough spice to keep the heat. Open door spice, in the world for you vibes, please check the trigger warnings. This conclusion to the Ashton trilogy is definitely a bit darker.
⚠️ some TW
Grief
Power plays
Manipulation
Emotional trauma
The stakes are high.. all building to something massive.
I 💯 recommend this entire series I’m loving it 😍
April 8, 2025
With Haedes dead, Sephy, Xion, Luce and the Furies are now fugitives from the Pandora and the demon lords who have taken over the underworld. The group is hiding out at the Sinclair state in the mortal realm. Luce is in her own darkness after Thane released herself to the Higher Plains, but the group needs her to come back to herself. So they draw the darkness from Luce into the Obsidian shard. Though, once Pandora learns of this, she just has to get her hands on that shard to absorb the power herself. The group sneaks into the underworld to start their counter attack. The only way to make it so Pandora cannot absorb the power is to destroy the shard, the whole shard. This includes the piece that is Xion's tether. Can Sephy do this? Can she destroy the man she loves and take her rightful place on the throne of the underworld? Looking forward to the third book.
July 13, 2025
Would you sacrifice what your heart holds dearest for the sake of the world?
This is a strong end to this trilogy, finishing things off neatly with a bow but leaving enough strands untangled to be played with for the finale. A promise of more.
We continue on with the events of the book, a month after the previous. Here we see everything going off the rails. And granted, it should. But we're not only going through it, we follow each of the characters go through it. Developing more in character, growing into who they better could be, ultimately for better or for worse.
Emotions are running high, stakes even higher, but we find the characters learn to accept—because time is but a fickle thing, and why should you waste it?
This is a strong end to this trilogy, finishing things off neatly with a bow but leaving enough strands untangled to be played with for the finale. A promise of more.
We continue on with the events of the book, a month after the previous. Here we see everything going off the rails. And granted, it should. But we're not only going through it, we follow each of the characters go through it. Developing more in character, growing into who they better could be, ultimately for better or for worse.
Emotions are running high, stakes even higher, but we find the characters learn to accept—because time is but a fickle thing, and why should you waste it?
December 12, 2018
I've decided I must be a masochist after reading this one because I am already longing for another book. I cried out of devastation, frustration, anger, and utter joy as I read. The characters have become old friends. I was ecstatic at the chance to catch up with their lives, but I felt all of their emotions like physical blows. As the final book of the trilogy I felt that it was a fitting end. As a part of the bigger picture is proved to be quite the stepping. How the author was able to wrap everything up so nicely with a great big bow and yet have everything set up for a later addendum is beyond my mortal comprehension.
January 21, 2024
OMG this final book is so good! We hit the ground running and it does not let up as we once again join our incredible characters to help them save the day. Finding ourselves immersed back into this incredible world as we hope Sephy can find the strength that she needs and stop Pandora. It’s dark, it’s exciting, it made me laugh out loud in places and cry in others, there’s twists and turns that had me on the edge of my seat gasping as the author bought everything together and I have to say there were a few surprises I did not see coming. It’s an incredible read and the author weaves her magic well drawing you in, enthralling you, captivating you and I cannot wait to read the next trilogy!
May 23, 2025
I am writing from my grave because this book took me out, in the best way, of course.
This conclusion to Sephys' amazing story was just chef kiss. I didn't think I could be more surprised, but this one still threw me for some loops. Kristy, the way you tie everything in was just a feat in itself. The overall development of each character throughout this series was a masterclass in literature honestly.
I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings.
This conclusion to Sephys' amazing story was just chef kiss. I didn't think I could be more surprised, but this one still threw me for some loops. Kristy, the way you tie everything in was just a feat in itself. The overall development of each character throughout this series was a masterclass in literature honestly.
I was lucky enough to receive an arc of this amazing novel and am leaving a review of my own thoughts and feelings.
November 3, 2019
Awesome ending!!
I don't want to give anything away and so I am going to keep this review short and sweet. Go read this Trilogy! I loved everything about it. Kristy Nicolle is a master word smith and she pulls out all the stops in this trilogy. She is excellent at evoking emotions. I can't wait to read what she writes next.
I don't want to give anything away and so I am going to keep this review short and sweet. Go read this Trilogy! I loved everything about it. Kristy Nicolle is a master word smith and she pulls out all the stops in this trilogy. She is excellent at evoking emotions. I can't wait to read what she writes next.
January 21, 2022
The ending was sad, but it made a lot of sense for where the story was going. Xion was definitely my favorite character throughout the entire trilogy, and I'm going to miss reading about his adventures!
This book was great, and the personal development of each character was phenomenal. I love when you can see growth within the people of a book.
This book was great, and the personal development of each character was phenomenal. I love when you can see growth within the people of a book.
February 28, 2025
This one has all the feels. Laughter, tears, nail biting, heart pounding, and spicy. It's epic.
The furies are a riot. At a restaurant they're told they can choose their own lobster, so they shoot an arrow into the tank. That's just one of the many amusing scenes you'll find.
I can't wait to read more of the series!
The furies are a riot. At a restaurant they're told they can choose their own lobster, so they shoot an arrow into the tank. That's just one of the many amusing scenes you'll find.
I can't wait to read more of the series!
April 24, 2025
Kristy Nicolle has the incredible ability to pull you into her worlds and make you lose track of time.
The Obsidian Shard is amazing.
The descriptions are so well dome that you can visualize it completely. I didn't want to put it down at all. Her writing also improves with each book, despite it being amazing right from the get-go
I can't wait to continue the Queens of Fantasy Saga.
The Obsidian Shard is amazing.
The descriptions are so well dome that you can visualize it completely. I didn't want to put it down at all. Her writing also improves with each book, despite it being amazing right from the get-go
I can't wait to continue the Queens of Fantasy Saga.
May 26, 2025
This final installment of the trilogy is outstanding. It elicited strong emotions, making me laugh and cry. Sephy's development throughout the series is impressive. Each character, including Jules, Hades, Luce, Xion, and others, has a profound impact on her life. Even her childhood dog, Cerb, and her beautiful horse play a significant role. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶🌶
June 4, 2025
This is the final book of the Ashen Touch Trilogy, and the longest. I felt like it could’ve been shorter, there were a lot of parts that were really drawn out, and some parts that felt glossed over. While everyone was wrapped up nicely, and we got a nice conclusion, I still felt like I was missing something in the end.
June 17, 2025
Kristy Nicolle did it again. Having sailed through this third book of Sephy Sinclair, I can honestly say it was amazing! I loved the ending and can’t wait to see how she ties in the other 2 trilogies in this series. I enjoyed the Girl Power theme and the made family that strengthened Sephy’s character. On to the next!
December 20, 2018
Good God the author thinks this is a joke, playing with out feelings like that! Thankfully she left Cerberus and Jules alone because if not I would have riot! But since I'm such a masochist I can't wait for the next saga!
September 27, 2020
This book here. It's filled with everything an epic Queen's tale should have. Love, family, sacrifice, action, good vs. evil. It all combines to bring happy tears to your eyes and a warm, fuzzy feeling in your heart. I loved it!! I'm on to the next Queen. 🥰
December 15, 2018
What a amazing read that will have the whole story complete and blowing your mind away. I was hooked from the first page tell the very ending.
January 6, 2019
An amazing conclusion I did cry my eyes out really great ending so excited can't wait to see what happens next heart pumping excitement
January 14, 2019
The hell dude? Give him back, I don't care what will happen and why isn't she dead?! She fell from the freaking sky! and all Hail the queen
February 9, 2019
I had no idea what to do with myself at the end of this book, I have practically binge read Kristy Nicolle's two trilogies over the past year, that's a lot of words. You have to have read the previous two books to truly understand the history and plot behind the story.
This book takes us back to Mortaria, but its changed considerably. No longer powered by Hades or the Motarian Sun, Pandora is in charge, but are the Demon lords truly to be trusted?
Back in the real world Sephy is trying to hold it all together whilst everything and everyone around her seem to be slipping away.
The anticipation and waiting soon lead to an epic battle, sacrifices, schemes and more.
Hold onto your hats as this is one hell of a ride!
This book takes us back to Mortaria, but its changed considerably. No longer powered by Hades or the Motarian Sun, Pandora is in charge, but are the Demon lords truly to be trusted?
Back in the real world Sephy is trying to hold it all together whilst everything and everyone around her seem to be slipping away.
The anticipation and waiting soon lead to an epic battle, sacrifices, schemes and more.
Hold onto your hats as this is one hell of a ride!
March 15, 2025
The last book in this Trilogy is amazing. It was a great read, sad and happy at the same time. The whole story was entertaining and it was a nail biter!
July 4, 2025
4.5⭐️
Amazing conclusion to the Ashen Touch trilogy, it’s really felt like each book has got better and better. As well as the action and political intrigue of the underworld we’ve come to expect from the series, The Obsidian Shard is filled with so much raw emotion it really intensified the immersion in the story. Sept is still sassy as ever, but it was really great to see a slightly softer side of her, and really allowed her character to develop. And loved seeing more of Jules in this one too!
Amazing conclusion to the Ashen Touch trilogy, it’s really felt like each book has got better and better. As well as the action and political intrigue of the underworld we’ve come to expect from the series, The Obsidian Shard is filled with so much raw emotion it really intensified the immersion in the story. Sept is still sassy as ever, but it was really great to see a slightly softer side of her, and really allowed her character to develop. And loved seeing more of Jules in this one too!
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