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Dominion of Ash #2
The Exiled
An ENEMIES TO LOVERS post-apocalyptic fantasy perfect for fans of Cruel Prince, Skyward, and Hunger Games.She got caught. Again. After a disastrous second escape attempt, Hazel finds herself blood indebted to her savior - Noah - but he's no saint. Desperate to repay her debt, she begrudgingly offers her skills as payment if she's allowed to visit home one last time. Her wish is granted but at a steep cost. What is supposed to be a saving grace turns out to be a nightmare.The monsters are right. Ignorance means death and blood ties are worthless.Be careful what you wish for.If you can't get enough of books by Brandon Sanderson, Annette Marie, Suzanne Collins, Veronica Roth, Amy A. Bartol, Laura Thalassa, and Jaymin Eve then dive into your next adventure.
316 pages, Paperback
First published December 30, 2019
485 people are currently reading
516 people want to read
About the author
Frost Kay
36 books1,398 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Frost Kay is a certified book dragon with an excessive TBR, and a shoe obsession. If you love bewitching fantasy and sci-fi, epic adventures, dark promises, thrilling action, swoon worthy anti heroes, and slow burning romance; her books are for you!
She claims ownership to the bestselling young adult series The Aermian Feuds packed with adventure, secrets, and betrayal.
Fans of Frost Kay love her epic and science fiction teen titles for their "witty banter and exquisitely crafted sentences (that) never leave you bored or wanting," and "find the writing on par with Queen (Sarah J.) Maas and Elise Kova."
You can find her at www.frostkay.net
You can also sign up for a free story here:goo.gl/Z2PkyC
She claims ownership to the bestselling young adult series The Aermian Feuds packed with adventure, secrets, and betrayal.
Fans of Frost Kay love her epic and science fiction teen titles for their "witty banter and exquisitely crafted sentences (that) never leave you bored or wanting," and "find the writing on par with Queen (Sarah J.) Maas and Elise Kova."
You can find her at www.frostkay.net
You can also sign up for a free story here:goo.gl/Z2PkyC
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 4, 2020
I never used to read a lot dystopian books, but I have to say, this series is quite amazing! I absolutely love this book. It picks up where book 1 left off and it is just captivating. I can’t wait to read more!
May 24, 2021
so excruciatingly boring
January 7, 2020
I honestly think the author is ending her books too soon.
Kay doesn’t really end her books well, and when I’m reading the ending, she (sorry, I’m assuming) ends it in a way that makes me think there’s another chapter.
I know it’s a cliffhanger, but they aren’t good. Like this one.
I hated the idea of slavery in this book being justified by “no no no, we don’t own you, just your work”. No pal, you’re treating her like a slave.
The romance in this book makes no sense. They have no chemistry. The FEW times that they are FORCED to be together they are just arguing and bickering with Noah being an jerk and Hazel being a princess. But somehow it’s “yours my mate, and I love you”. Give, she single handily saved his life, but that’s not a “I love you” thing.
We finally get some explanation for Hazel being kidnapped, but not entirely? “You can’t go home because you’re people will exile you and you might lead them here and kill us” that makes sense. I get that
BUT WHY KIDNAP HER IN THE FIRST PLACE?! Why was it “I’m sorry, but I can’t let you go....” in the first book?! It makes no sense. Noah didn’t know she existed/she’s a potential mate, and I don’t think Matt would say “Hey. There’s this girl I haven’t seen in a year, and now I look like the enemy she’s been told from birth to hate. When given the chance, kidnap her, and nearly torture her the journey here.” If so then.....geez
Kay doesn’t really end her books well, and when I’m reading the ending, she (sorry, I’m assuming) ends it in a way that makes me think there’s another chapter.
I know it’s a cliffhanger, but they aren’t good. Like this one.
I hated the idea of slavery in this book being justified by “no no no, we don’t own you, just your work”. No pal, you’re treating her like a slave.
The romance in this book makes no sense. They have no chemistry. The FEW times that they are FORCED to be together they are just arguing and bickering with Noah being an jerk and Hazel being a princess. But somehow it’s “yours my mate, and I love you”. Give, she single handily saved his life, but that’s not a “I love you” thing.
We finally get some explanation for Hazel being kidnapped, but not entirely? “You can’t go home because you’re people will exile you and you might lead them here and kill us” that makes sense. I get that
BUT WHY KIDNAP HER IN THE FIRST PLACE?! Why was it “I’m sorry, but I can’t let you go....” in the first book?! It makes no sense. Noah didn’t know she existed/she’s a potential mate, and I don’t think Matt would say “Hey. There’s this girl I haven’t seen in a year, and now I look like the enemy she’s been told from birth to hate. When given the chance, kidnap her, and nearly torture her the journey here.” If so then.....geez
May 25, 2023
The slow burn is ending me- bye-
December 27, 2019
This book has great character development and shows tremendous growth from Hazel. As an Untouched in a Tainted sanctuary, she doesn't fit in anywhere. She goes from thinking those that have been tainted are monsters to realizing that they haven't lost their humanity (and are better than most Untouched humans). While she is a bit dramatic, it was rewarding to see her growth - especially her relationship with Abuela.
There is action, intrigue, betrayal, and more! Hazel has grit, and is capable of more than she (or anyone) imagined. While throughout the series it has been obvious that she and Noah (the monster) are destined for one another, I found their relationship to be a bit odd. Noah acknowledges that their pheromones attract one another, and many of his chapters include thoughts of her and her "plain" beauty. However, while she is distracted by his physique there wasn't a lot of additional thought given to him when she was on her own. Because of this, I found the newfound intimacy at the end of the novel a bit forced. While she no longer viewed him as a monster, I didn't feel like he and she were remotely on the same level emotionally. This left me feeling strange, but overall I liked the book!
There is action, intrigue, betrayal, and more! Hazel has grit, and is capable of more than she (or anyone) imagined. While throughout the series it has been obvious that she and Noah (the monster) are destined for one another, I found their relationship to be a bit odd. Noah acknowledges that their pheromones attract one another, and many of his chapters include thoughts of her and her "plain" beauty. However, while she is distracted by his physique there wasn't a lot of additional thought given to him when she was on her own. Because of this, I found the newfound intimacy at the end of the novel a bit forced. While she no longer viewed him as a monster, I didn't feel like he and she were remotely on the same level emotionally. This left me feeling strange, but overall I liked the book!
February 3, 2021
Man, I think if I had those people as my family I would cry too.
Fuller review coming (can't be bothered to write one rn)
→3.5 stars
Fuller review coming (can't be bothered to write one rn)
→3.5 stars
January 8, 2020
Impossible not to enjoy this story. You have an untainted and a human , the tainted. Kept me guessing the whole time. Can’t wait for the next.
June 4, 2020
Love the story
Love the story but hated the supposed heroine for most of the book. I just have never been prejudice nor can I understand it. I get that it was ingrained into her but my family was like that too and I rose against it.
This is why I gave the book a three star rating instead of more.
The other characters are way lovable though. Doc is patient and kind. Matt is still Hazel's friend even after she's treated him like dirt. Noah is easy as heck and Abuela sounds a lot like my grandma.
I have another gripe that seems petty but it drove me nuts. The Spanish was way off. Everyone kept calling Noah Mi hijo. Nobody says that. I know it is probably proper but nobody says that. They say mijo. Saying mi hijo is like someone saying "Is not that lovely?" Instead of "Isn't that lovely". It is just not done. Also, they used buenos noches as a farewell. Buenos noches is a greeting like good evening. Que pasan buenos noches means have a good night and is what people say before bed. I know that sounds petty but it annoyed me.
Other than all that, I enjoyed this a lot. I mentally slapped Hazel a lot but she's growing on me.
Love the story but hated the supposed heroine for most of the book. I just have never been prejudice nor can I understand it. I get that it was ingrained into her but my family was like that too and I rose against it.
This is why I gave the book a three star rating instead of more.
The other characters are way lovable though. Doc is patient and kind. Matt is still Hazel's friend even after she's treated him like dirt. Noah is easy as heck and Abuela sounds a lot like my grandma.
I have another gripe that seems petty but it drove me nuts. The Spanish was way off. Everyone kept calling Noah Mi hijo. Nobody says that. I know it is probably proper but nobody says that. They say mijo. Saying mi hijo is like someone saying "Is not that lovely?" Instead of "Isn't that lovely". It is just not done. Also, they used buenos noches as a farewell. Buenos noches is a greeting like good evening. Que pasan buenos noches means have a good night and is what people say before bed. I know that sounds petty but it annoyed me.
Other than all that, I enjoyed this a lot. I mentally slapped Hazel a lot but she's growing on me.
March 2, 2021
"The little Untouched meant more to him than she should. And his attraction was going to kill her."
That ending!! Noah just showed a different side to him and I am here for it! And I love how Hazel is finally seeing everything
That ending!! Noah just showed a different side to him and I am here for it! And I love how Hazel is finally seeing everything
March 15, 2021
I’ve decided this series is going in the favorites shelf! While it’s not the most complex plot, I am just so fucking obsessed with this world and these characters. The books are SHORT is the only downside, because I never want the story to end. On to third book!
January 19, 2020
This is a great post apocalyptic series. Well written this book carries on from book 1 and is every bit as good! Well paced the story continues to grow and develop as do the characters, I just love Noah & Hazel and the adventure continues. An intense yet exciting read that will just grab you and I can’t wait to read more!
March 12, 2021
Kindle Unlimited.
These installments are almost too short to call them books, but too long to be novellas. I really do wish they were longer, because I'm enjoying the story.
These installments are almost too short to call them books, but too long to be novellas. I really do wish they were longer, because I'm enjoying the story.
March 13, 2025
This was even better than the first book!
July 17, 2021
4 STARS
These books feel a bit wattpad-y to me but like...better? Idk, they're sort of addictive or at the very least entertaining, so I will for sure be reading the next one! I'm curious!
These books feel a bit wattpad-y to me but like...better? Idk, they're sort of addictive or at the very least entertaining, so I will for sure be reading the next one! I'm curious!
April 21, 2020
DNF in chapter three. I wanted to pull my hair out from anger and frustation !!!!
January 2, 2020
The Exiled is book two in Frost Kay’s Dominion of Ash series. This book picks up where book one – “The Tainted” left off. The author gives readers dual POV following Hazel, an “Untainted” human, and Noah, one of the “Tainted.” Hazel is still struggling with what all has happened to her, and is bent on her quest to return home.
When I was first introduced to this series I was eager to devour it. So, when a sequel was finally put out I was anticipating a fascinating story that would reel me in and have me eager for more. This book honestly left me with mixed feelings. The storyline moves along nicely and keeps me engaged throughout. I love that we get a clearer view of what the “Tainted” live like and how they are with their own. This was something that I was eager to read and the author truly does not disappoint in that aspect. The author gives me just enough detail to keep me page-turning as I learn more about these people and how they do things. Also, she does a fantastic job pointing out that there are bad eggs no matter where you go.
Now, while I had little to nothing to complain about concerning the first book in this series, I hate to say that I was disappointed in Hazel’s overall character development. When I started the book I wasn’t surprised that she was still deeply embedded in her prejudice towards them, but I was disappointed that her hatred and disgust towards them only seems to deepen. I couldn’t remember her exact age, but she kept acting like a 14-year-old with her nasty attitude. The characters I felt the worst for were Noah, Matt, and Jameson.
I felt inclined to feel the most sympathy towards Matt though because she claimed to care about him, but I honestly questioned that. When she wants something from him then he’s her “friend.” But the minute that he doesn’t do what she thinks he should then she “hates him”, she “doesn’t know him”, she’s “disgusted by him”, and he’s “just another monster.” When she’s lashing out at someone then it's fine for her to hurt them, but the minute they do tit-for-tat, then she wants to cry foul. It just honestly got on my nerves.
I’m rating this book 4 out of 5 stars. This book ends on a cliffhanger, which I don’t mind. There is a shift in Hazel’s attitude towards the end, but for me…it’s a little late and only comes when her world gets a few more shake-ups that she isn’t expecting to happen. I had hoped that her change would come sooner than it does and for different reasons. I’m hopeful that the next book in this series will give me what it is that I’m looking for. If you enjoyed the first book in this series, then I encourage you to read this book, but just be prepared for a ton of attitude.
When I was first introduced to this series I was eager to devour it. So, when a sequel was finally put out I was anticipating a fascinating story that would reel me in and have me eager for more. This book honestly left me with mixed feelings. The storyline moves along nicely and keeps me engaged throughout. I love that we get a clearer view of what the “Tainted” live like and how they are with their own. This was something that I was eager to read and the author truly does not disappoint in that aspect. The author gives me just enough detail to keep me page-turning as I learn more about these people and how they do things. Also, she does a fantastic job pointing out that there are bad eggs no matter where you go.
Now, while I had little to nothing to complain about concerning the first book in this series, I hate to say that I was disappointed in Hazel’s overall character development. When I started the book I wasn’t surprised that she was still deeply embedded in her prejudice towards them, but I was disappointed that her hatred and disgust towards them only seems to deepen. I couldn’t remember her exact age, but she kept acting like a 14-year-old with her nasty attitude. The characters I felt the worst for were Noah, Matt, and Jameson.
I felt inclined to feel the most sympathy towards Matt though because she claimed to care about him, but I honestly questioned that. When she wants something from him then he’s her “friend.” But the minute that he doesn’t do what she thinks he should then she “hates him”, she “doesn’t know him”, she’s “disgusted by him”, and he’s “just another monster.” When she’s lashing out at someone then it's fine for her to hurt them, but the minute they do tit-for-tat, then she wants to cry foul. It just honestly got on my nerves.
I’m rating this book 4 out of 5 stars. This book ends on a cliffhanger, which I don’t mind. There is a shift in Hazel’s attitude towards the end, but for me…it’s a little late and only comes when her world gets a few more shake-ups that she isn’t expecting to happen. I had hoped that her change would come sooner than it does and for different reasons. I’m hopeful that the next book in this series will give me what it is that I’m looking for. If you enjoyed the first book in this series, then I encourage you to read this book, but just be prepared for a ton of attitude.
June 16, 2020
This book was AMAZING! Just as good as the first and gave me all the feels and heartache.
Hazel is serving as an "indentured servant" to Noah's grandma to pay for all the crap she did in the first book. She adjusts to her life living with Abuela and grows to love her. Noah's grandma is tough, but sweet behind her prickly exterior. It was so sweet to see them develop a friendship as Hazel's mom died when she was young.
Hazel becomes the object of bullying to a Tainted she works for while living with Abuela. She is abused on and off physically which leads to a seriously pissed off Noah and Abuela.
This book is all about Hazel adapting to life at the Tainted compound, The Sanctuary. She learns from Matt, her childhood friend who became Tainted, that he tried to come home and was denied by her brothers and father. I was so heartbroken for Hazel so many times. She refused to believe it and when Abuela offers to help her get home after she saves Noah's life, Hazel doesn't blink and goes.
SPOILER> She does make it back to her home and endures what Matt did: exile. Her own brothers and father believe she could be a threat to their compound because of her association with The Tainted. They also fear she could be infected with the virus that mutates people into the Tainted.
Hazel returns absolutely DISTRAUGHT to the Tainted Sanctuary where Noah finds her and the sweetest scene EVER takes place until, that is, her family's concerns prove valid and Hazel is in fact infected after a run in with a snake she thought was nothing. I lived for this scene you guys.
The book ends on a major cliffhanger as Hazel begins her "transformation" and we aren't sure what will happen to her (although obviously she will pull through, become Tainted, and become Noah's." GAHH I can't wait for the third book!
Hazel is serving as an "indentured servant" to Noah's grandma to pay for all the crap she did in the first book. She adjusts to her life living with Abuela and grows to love her. Noah's grandma is tough, but sweet behind her prickly exterior. It was so sweet to see them develop a friendship as Hazel's mom died when she was young.
Hazel becomes the object of bullying to a Tainted she works for while living with Abuela. She is abused on and off physically which leads to a seriously pissed off Noah and Abuela.
This book is all about Hazel adapting to life at the Tainted compound, The Sanctuary. She learns from Matt, her childhood friend who became Tainted, that he tried to come home and was denied by her brothers and father. I was so heartbroken for Hazel so many times. She refused to believe it and when Abuela offers to help her get home after she saves Noah's life, Hazel doesn't blink and goes.
SPOILER> She does make it back to her home and endures what Matt did: exile. Her own brothers and father believe she could be a threat to their compound because of her association with The Tainted. They also fear she could be infected with the virus that mutates people into the Tainted.
Hazel returns absolutely DISTRAUGHT to the Tainted Sanctuary where Noah finds her and the sweetest scene EVER takes place until, that is, her family's concerns prove valid and Hazel is in fact infected after a run in with a snake she thought was nothing. I lived for this scene you guys.
The book ends on a major cliffhanger as Hazel begins her "transformation" and we aren't sure what will happen to her (although obviously she will pull through, become Tainted, and become Noah's." GAHH I can't wait for the third book!
January 8, 2020
So this is book 2 in the series, it follows straight on from when Hazel tried to escape.
Most of the book we follow her life living with the tainted and how they treat her. The start of this book is quite slow but by half way the pace starts to pick up and it becomes more of an adventure.
We soon start to realise in this book that Hazel does have a conscience and does start to care for the tainted, but only a selected few. She does still hate the majority of them but when she is sold to be a slave we discover her true feelings. She also attempts to escape a few more times because she wants to get back to her family, who wouldn’t?
When she is a slave and working for the tainted is when I feel the story started to kick in and became more of an adventure and quite hard to put down. I also felt this is where Hazel developed the most and we seen her true personality. During this time as a slave there are a few scenes which could potentially be a trigger, for violence and potential sexual harassment.
When she is a slave we also discover more of Marco, Noah and Grandmothers personality. I felt they were the correct characters to have included in this book because they helped with the development of the story and Hazel. If it wasn’t for these characters been introduced and developed hen I feel this book would have been really lacking in the story.
The story isn’t what makes this book great it’s the characters and their development. The story didn’t develop as much as I would have liked for the length of it but overall I still found it a great book to read and would love to follow the rest of the series.
The ending of the book was a whole new story which is what keeps this series going. And as the book says trust no one!
Most of the book we follow her life living with the tainted and how they treat her. The start of this book is quite slow but by half way the pace starts to pick up and it becomes more of an adventure.
We soon start to realise in this book that Hazel does have a conscience and does start to care for the tainted, but only a selected few. She does still hate the majority of them but when she is sold to be a slave we discover her true feelings. She also attempts to escape a few more times because she wants to get back to her family, who wouldn’t?
When she is a slave and working for the tainted is when I feel the story started to kick in and became more of an adventure and quite hard to put down. I also felt this is where Hazel developed the most and we seen her true personality. During this time as a slave there are a few scenes which could potentially be a trigger, for violence and potential sexual harassment.
When she is a slave we also discover more of Marco, Noah and Grandmothers personality. I felt they were the correct characters to have included in this book because they helped with the development of the story and Hazel. If it wasn’t for these characters been introduced and developed hen I feel this book would have been really lacking in the story.
The story isn’t what makes this book great it’s the characters and their development. The story didn’t develop as much as I would have liked for the length of it but overall I still found it a great book to read and would love to follow the rest of the series.
The ending of the book was a whole new story which is what keeps this series going. And as the book says trust no one!
January 2, 2020
This is the second book in the series. I found it a lot more enjoyable than the first mainly because Hazel has became more likeable to me. Before she was ignorant and too stuck in her ways to truly see things for what they are; that the Tainted aren't the monsters she was lead to believe. She also has started to grow up a lot and started thinking for herself. I felt this was an coming of age book for her.
It starts off straight after the first book ends with Hazel's botched escape. She then has to deal with the repercussions of that; having to cope with her punishment and surroundings.
I love Hazel's and Abuela's relationship, it's really funny, sweet, and unexpected. Of course, I also like Doc's and Hazel's interaction, then Hazel and Noah's relationship too. The contrast between them are compete opposites but somehow fit together.
There was a lot of moments where I felt sorry for Hazel with what she had to deal with. For example: being a woman in a strange place, being bullied, then not accepted back home. She has gone through so much in such a short amount of time but this has only adds to her character and makes her feel more likeable.
It ends on a sort of cliff hanger where I'm itching to find out what will happen next. Will she survive? She just has too!! Roll on book 3!
It starts off straight after the first book ends with Hazel's botched escape. She then has to deal with the repercussions of that; having to cope with her punishment and surroundings.
I love Hazel's and Abuela's relationship, it's really funny, sweet, and unexpected. Of course, I also like Doc's and Hazel's interaction, then Hazel and Noah's relationship too. The contrast between them are compete opposites but somehow fit together.
There was a lot of moments where I felt sorry for Hazel with what she had to deal with. For example: being a woman in a strange place, being bullied, then not accepted back home. She has gone through so much in such a short amount of time but this has only adds to her character and makes her feel more likeable.
It ends on a sort of cliff hanger where I'm itching to find out what will happen next. Will she survive? She just has too!! Roll on book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2020
As much as I loved the characters and the story...
...I feel like there was a lot of unnecessary plot. If Matt, Noah, Doc, or literally anyone else could’ve just given Hazel some info on their lifestyle and what she could expect, everything would’ve been a lot easier. Especially Matt. He knew where she was coming from and what her understanding would have been. He could have easily explained something to give her some comfort. Instead of just saying, “we want to help you” and “I love you”. It was unnecessary to keep Hazel in the dark as much as they did. It got a little annoying to follow along with Hazel’s ignorance, when it could’ve easily been avoided. I do appreciate Hazel’s “never give up” fighting spirit though. I like that she never just succumbed to what was happening to her. She took ownership of everything and I respect that.
I love the love/hate relationship between Hazel and Noah. To be fair, she kind of had that with everyone, but the extra insight into Noah’s POV was an excellent addition to the situation. I love a good enemies-to-lovers story and Noah and Hazel have a great one!
The book ended on a cliffhanger in more ways than one! I need to know what happens! I can’t wait until the next installment in Hazel’s saga!
...I feel like there was a lot of unnecessary plot. If Matt, Noah, Doc, or literally anyone else could’ve just given Hazel some info on their lifestyle and what she could expect, everything would’ve been a lot easier. Especially Matt. He knew where she was coming from and what her understanding would have been. He could have easily explained something to give her some comfort. Instead of just saying, “we want to help you” and “I love you”. It was unnecessary to keep Hazel in the dark as much as they did. It got a little annoying to follow along with Hazel’s ignorance, when it could’ve easily been avoided. I do appreciate Hazel’s “never give up” fighting spirit though. I like that she never just succumbed to what was happening to her. She took ownership of everything and I respect that.
I love the love/hate relationship between Hazel and Noah. To be fair, she kind of had that with everyone, but the extra insight into Noah’s POV was an excellent addition to the situation. I love a good enemies-to-lovers story and Noah and Hazel have a great one!
The book ended on a cliffhanger in more ways than one! I need to know what happens! I can’t wait until the next installment in Hazel’s saga!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2020
Living among the Tainted is definitely not what Hazel has planned.
Healed and caught after a failed escape attempt, her punishment awaits. Not happy to be in the position of a slave, even though treated fairly, she never gives up the hope to escape and tries her best. Only it's not so easy. For Hazel, now is the time to bid her time and try to blend in. However, life tricks her again, and she starts to like the old woman who takes care of her. Everything changes when her life is threatened though..
The second book in the series is no less gripping and fast pacing than the first one. With the change of environment, Hazel is forced to adapt and starts to change as well. Deeper insight into the society of the Tainted brings interesting observations, and despite the sometimes frightening appearance, the reader gets to know the real character of the Sanctum, the souls that inhabit it, and the system that rules the place. Brilliant character development, lots of drama and suspense, and many twists and turns make the book an excellent reading experience, and I would definitely wait impatiently for the next installment.
Healed and caught after a failed escape attempt, her punishment awaits. Not happy to be in the position of a slave, even though treated fairly, she never gives up the hope to escape and tries her best. Only it's not so easy. For Hazel, now is the time to bid her time and try to blend in. However, life tricks her again, and she starts to like the old woman who takes care of her. Everything changes when her life is threatened though..
The second book in the series is no less gripping and fast pacing than the first one. With the change of environment, Hazel is forced to adapt and starts to change as well. Deeper insight into the society of the Tainted brings interesting observations, and despite the sometimes frightening appearance, the reader gets to know the real character of the Sanctum, the souls that inhabit it, and the system that rules the place. Brilliant character development, lots of drama and suspense, and many twists and turns make the book an excellent reading experience, and I would definitely wait impatiently for the next installment.
December 30, 2019
Ok, Frost Kay is one of my favorite authors. So how could I possibly have missed that she came out with a new series? Yesterday I saw The Exiled (Dominion of Ash, Book 2) and realized that was the case. Binge-read time! You know it. Massive read-o-fest. Wasn’t actually planned that way (and my husband, who I kept accidentally waking, probably didn’t appreciate it) but, really, The Tainted (Dominion of Ash, Book 1) was so, so freakin’ superb, that I couldn’t help myself. So, here I am exhausted but blissed our from a great read-binge and delighted to report that these two books were totally fantastic, pretty perfectly written, with great casts and plots, and the start of what I can tell is going to be a really great story arc, all set in a superb setting thanks to great (there’s that word again) world-building. I mean, c’mon, a dystopian fantasy with mutated fae-like humans (the eponymous Tainted), dragon lords, thieves, assassins, thrills and adventure? I’m sooo there. These books are super easy to highly recommend as they’re truly (wait for it ...) great!
December 30, 2019
The Exiled Dominion of Ash book 2 by Frost Kay........ first the cover is gorgeous. Second Hazel, she’s stubborn and feisty and I just love love her. This books is out today and is a post-apocalyptic fantasy with an enemies to lovers-ish romance, but really the romance aspect takes a back seat to the epic story that is going on. Definitely not steamy at all which is totally fine.However you will still find yourselves completely invested in all the relationships that are forming , these characters are so good. I literally cried like three times reading this book. The emotions were so raw for me right from the very first chapter. It was such a great follow up, fast paced, and over way too soon. There are so many characters to love and moving pieces to this story. There is this under current of hope that keeps Hazel surviving and I just loved that about her. But the ending, ugh Frost is one of my favs so I know what she’s capable of....... with that being said, prepare to be gutted. It is real and I’m so ready for more!
January 9, 2020
Frost truly is a brilliant author. Everything she writes is engrossing so this book was obviously no different. It got to be more about the storyline and character growth and less necessary world building. And there was definitely a need for character growth because there were some traits about Hazel and Noah that I was getting sick of but by the end of the book I was gratified and dying for the next in the series. I can't wait to see what happens! Especially because I do adore these main characters. Sometimes they can can lack a certain maturity but for the most part they have wonderful hearts and strong morals.
Let's not forget to mention how unique and interesting this entire world is! Being introduced to more diverse characters adds so much more to the story plus the twists that I didn't see coming... wow! It leaves me repeating myself because I have to exclaim that I can't wait for the next book!
Let's not forget to mention how unique and interesting this entire world is! Being introduced to more diverse characters adds so much more to the story plus the twists that I didn't see coming... wow! It leaves me repeating myself because I have to exclaim that I can't wait for the next book!
March 21, 2020
Wasn't sure what to expect with this series... But I can't say that I am disappointed.
The storyline was unique. A virus gone wrong was created that infects and mutates humans. Fast forward to the time of the story and there is a clash between the humans that are untainted (immune or not infected), and the humans that are tainted (infected).
The story was good, but could have used more interaction between the MC and her love interest. If you are going to specifically call this relationship out in the book blurb (even for the first book!), there should definitely be more character interaction and relationship building within the books. There was hardly any. They barely interacted until the last 5 pages of book two...
Also, I noticed in another review (which makes me glad to know that I am not the only one to think this), but I think the books both end at somewhat odd points in the story... They just didn't feel like good stopping points in the flow of the books.
The storyline was unique. A virus gone wrong was created that infects and mutates humans. Fast forward to the time of the story and there is a clash between the humans that are untainted (immune or not infected), and the humans that are tainted (infected).
The story was good, but could have used more interaction between the MC and her love interest. If you are going to specifically call this relationship out in the book blurb (even for the first book!), there should definitely be more character interaction and relationship building within the books. There was hardly any. They barely interacted until the last 5 pages of book two...
Also, I noticed in another review (which makes me glad to know that I am not the only one to think this), but I think the books both end at somewhat odd points in the story... They just didn't feel like good stopping points in the flow of the books.
December 1, 2020
Huge thanks to Frost Kay for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It's no secret that I love Frost Kay's writing. I've read all her books and like a fine wine it just gets better with age. That being said, The Fallout did not disappoint. This continued Hazel's story as she comes to terms with her changes and the new man in her life. This has shifters, dragons, warring clans, mates and a ton of action. For fantasy fans, this is the perfect, quick, easy read for a good urban fantasy fix.
This book does complete open ended. However, it does wrap up loose ends so you don't leave feeling dissatisfied. From what I gathered, in the future, Frost wants to dive back into this world. That is something to note though if that bothers you as a reader.
Overall, I gave this story 3.75 stars. I will be reading this series for a comfort read in the future and I would recommend this to all fantasy fans.
It's no secret that I love Frost Kay's writing. I've read all her books and like a fine wine it just gets better with age. That being said, The Fallout did not disappoint. This continued Hazel's story as she comes to terms with her changes and the new man in her life. This has shifters, dragons, warring clans, mates and a ton of action. For fantasy fans, this is the perfect, quick, easy read for a good urban fantasy fix.
This book does complete open ended. However, it does wrap up loose ends so you don't leave feeling dissatisfied. From what I gathered, in the future, Frost wants to dive back into this world. That is something to note though if that bothers you as a reader.
Overall, I gave this story 3.75 stars. I will be reading this series for a comfort read in the future and I would recommend this to all fantasy fans.
January 1, 2020
Very well written. Only a few minor faux pas but nothing that overshadowed the actual story. It took a year to get to this second book in the series but it had better not be another year to get to the next one! Just as the story was getting to the good part with Noah, it had to end? Aaarrrggg. Hazel tried to go home but her family wouldn’t let her in. She was exiled. Betrayed. Humans were supposed to be better than that, but Hazel found that those purported to be tainted treated her better than her own family. As usual, Ms Frost Kay has written great characters with depth and feelings not unlike our own. Their situations were imaginative and unique. I can hardly wait to get into the next book, hopefully sooner rather than later. Definitely not after another year.
November 18, 2020
Rating - 4.5/5
It's quite refreshing to read a story where the author focuses significantly on developing the protagonist's character. There are way too many books out there where characters go from nothing to being the saviour of humanity, or they are kickass, to begin with, so the character development gets outshined by the flashy plotline. So, for a change, it was nice to read how Hazel grew more open-minded while she laboured to pay off her crimes against those she believed to be monsters. Frost Kay did a splendid job in expanding the world in Dominion of Ash and shed light on the grim reality of survival and how deceptively beautiful monsters can be. I am lucky I don't have to wait long for the next book because that cliffhanger was ILLEGAL!
It's quite refreshing to read a story where the author focuses significantly on developing the protagonist's character. There are way too many books out there where characters go from nothing to being the saviour of humanity, or they are kickass, to begin with, so the character development gets outshined by the flashy plotline. So, for a change, it was nice to read how Hazel grew more open-minded while she laboured to pay off her crimes against those she believed to be monsters. Frost Kay did a splendid job in expanding the world in Dominion of Ash and shed light on the grim reality of survival and how deceptively beautiful monsters can be. I am lucky I don't have to wait long for the next book because that cliffhanger was ILLEGAL!
April 8, 2020
This dystopian science fiction/fantasy sequel didn’t disappoint! It was just as fast-paced and intense as the first book but it tore me apart more. The terror of living in the post-apocalyptic world with danger lurking behind every corner was so thrilling and horrifying. I was heartbroken with how much drama and trauma Hazel endured in this sequel as if the first book was not enough 😢 I had a really hard time digesting all the sexual assault and the physical abuse on top of the survivor hardship and other traumatic experiences. I loved the slowly developing relationship between Hazel and Noah and I cannot wait for the third book to come out!
November 11, 2021
Title: The Exiled
Series: Dominion of Ash #2
Author: Frost Kay
Publisher: Renegade Publishing, LLC
Edition: kindle
Amount of Pages: 217
Genre: Young Adult, Post Apocalypse, Romance
Spice: 0 /5 peppers
Cliffhanger:
HEA/HFN:
Cheating:
Triggerwarnings:
Love Triangle:
Insta Love/ Insta Lust:
Single Parent/Kids/Pregnancy:
Date Read: 27-10-2021
Favorite Quote: "The little Untouched meant more to him than she should. And his attraction was going to kill her."
Review:
This is the second book in the series and I'm curious to see how things panned out. Allot of it was very expected but still enjoyable. Harper is working on overcoming her prejudiced and accepting that what she was told isn't the reality of the situation. I really like the message this book is portraying, that you looks etc doesn't or shouldn't say anything about being human or not, your actions do.
Some things got a bit repetitieve, and Harpers emotions and actions where still all over the place. She could go from one end to the other end of the emotional spectrum in seconds. But again that's kinda expected from a teenager.
There where again situations where her stubbornness was good, like when they tried to convince her she wasn't a slave and that this was the best outcome for her, yeah sir that doesn't make her less of a slave if she is forced to do work against her will without payment etc. Even though it was indeed the best situation for her, doesn't change the definition of slavery.
The story still intrigued me and I will read the 3d book once the 4th one is out so I can read them back to back. I am curious to see how it will all turn out.
Rating:
4 stars
Series: Dominion of Ash #2
Author: Frost Kay
Publisher: Renegade Publishing, LLC
Edition: kindle
Amount of Pages: 217
Genre: Young Adult, Post Apocalypse, Romance
Spice: 0 /5 peppers
Cliffhanger:
HEA/HFN:
Cheating:
Triggerwarnings:
Love Triangle:
Insta Love/ Insta Lust:
Single Parent/Kids/Pregnancy:
Date Read: 27-10-2021
Favorite Quote: "The little Untouched meant more to him than she should. And his attraction was going to kill her."
Review:
This is the second book in the series and I'm curious to see how things panned out. Allot of it was very expected but still enjoyable. Harper is working on overcoming her prejudiced and accepting that what she was told isn't the reality of the situation. I really like the message this book is portraying, that you looks etc doesn't or shouldn't say anything about being human or not, your actions do.
Some things got a bit repetitieve, and Harpers emotions and actions where still all over the place. She could go from one end to the other end of the emotional spectrum in seconds. But again that's kinda expected from a teenager.
There where again situations where her stubbornness was good, like when they tried to convince her she wasn't a slave and that this was the best outcome for her, yeah sir that doesn't make her less of a slave if she is forced to do work against her will without payment etc. Even though it was indeed the best situation for her, doesn't change the definition of slavery.
The story still intrigued me and I will read the 3d book once the 4th one is out so I can read them back to back. I am curious to see how it will all turn out.
Rating:
4 stars
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