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Kings of Aselvia #2
Collusion
“When glass hits the floor, it scatters to the furthest corners. Don’t you know that broken things have the sharpest edges?”
Errance has it all—a crown, a kingdom, a family, and grace for eternity. Yet even after seven years of peace, decades of imprisonment have left scars upon his soul that refuse to fade. Fear of the future keeps him crippled in the present.
When one of his worst fears comes true, Errance is left with a choice—remain hiding in the safety of Aselvia or return to the world that hurt him the first time. Throwing all caution to the wind, he plunges into the dregs of the cities and climbs to the heights of society in the search for his missing loved one.
There is more at work than he can see—allies are not all that they appear. Lies, schemes, and politics are seeking the strengths and weaknesses of Aselvia, and if he’s not careful, he’ll lose everything he holds dear.
But the King of the Elves has not survived this long just to lose to mortal treachery, and when he comes out of his kingdom, he’s coming to set the world on fire.
Errance has it all—a crown, a kingdom, a family, and grace for eternity. Yet even after seven years of peace, decades of imprisonment have left scars upon his soul that refuse to fade. Fear of the future keeps him crippled in the present.
When one of his worst fears comes true, Errance is left with a choice—remain hiding in the safety of Aselvia or return to the world that hurt him the first time. Throwing all caution to the wind, he plunges into the dregs of the cities and climbs to the heights of society in the search for his missing loved one.
There is more at work than he can see—allies are not all that they appear. Lies, schemes, and politics are seeking the strengths and weaknesses of Aselvia, and if he’s not careful, he’ll lose everything he holds dear.
But the King of the Elves has not survived this long just to lose to mortal treachery, and when he comes out of his kingdom, he’s coming to set the world on fire.
463 pages, Paperback
First published September 27, 2024
19 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
H.S.J. Williams
6 books325 followersFrom the beginning, H. S. J. Williams has loved stories and all the forms they take. Whether with word, art, or costume, she has always been fascinated with the magic of imagination. She lives in a real fantastical kingdom, the beautiful Pacific Northwest, with her very own array of animal friends and royally loving family. Williams taught Fantasy Illustration at MSOA. She may also be a part-time elf.
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May 15, 2025Collusion is upon us!!!! Isn’t it BEAUTIFUL? The cover art is by @vitkovskaya_art and she did such an INCREDIBLE job!
I know I'm a slow writer, but it's sometimes hard for me to believe this took 4 years to complete after Moonscript's release. (Hey, the story takes place seven years later, so ya'll needed to feel some of that time passing by.) I know many of you have been waiting for it eagerly, and I hope it shall be the sequel of your dreams! It was such a joy to write.
This story can be read as a stand-alone, but it is the second book in the Kings of Aselvia, with five books in the main series and several closely connected novels and side series all featuring:
*Epic Elves
*Found Family
*Recovery From Abuse
*Epic Adventure
Book 2 additionally features
*Married Leads (but clean romance)
*Intrigue & Subterfuge
Collusion is available in kindle, paperback, and now hardcover! Physical copies include illustrations by the author!
Follow my newsletter at hsjwilliams.com for more story updates!
I know I'm a slow writer, but it's sometimes hard for me to believe this took 4 years to complete after Moonscript's release. (Hey, the story takes place seven years later, so ya'll needed to feel some of that time passing by.) I know many of you have been waiting for it eagerly, and I hope it shall be the sequel of your dreams! It was such a joy to write.
This story can be read as a stand-alone, but it is the second book in the Kings of Aselvia, with five books in the main series and several closely connected novels and side series all featuring:
*Epic Elves
*Found Family
*Recovery From Abuse
*Epic Adventure
Book 2 additionally features
*Married Leads (but clean romance)
*Intrigue & Subterfuge
Collusion is available in kindle, paperback, and now hardcover! Physical copies include illustrations by the author!
Follow my newsletter at hsjwilliams.com for more story updates!
September 3, 2024
Sometimes, a sequel just goes so far above and beyond the original. This one did.
The characters in book one endured so much. Like…it would’ve been out of place for them to be able to be normal in this book. I get so excited when authors dive into the absolute depths of their characters’ destroyed psyches in sequels…but then they show them climbing up into hope. HOPE. This book is chock full of hope.
Anyway: this was an adventure story with all sorts of beautiful settings and lovely romance and inter character friendships and plot twists. But it’s also a character study in healing and hope. I’ve waited many years for this book and it is one of the most incredible books I’ve read in years. Well done, Hannah. Well done.
The characters in book one endured so much. Like…it would’ve been out of place for them to be able to be normal in this book. I get so excited when authors dive into the absolute depths of their characters’ destroyed psyches in sequels…but then they show them climbing up into hope. HOPE. This book is chock full of hope.
Anyway: this was an adventure story with all sorts of beautiful settings and lovely romance and inter character friendships and plot twists. But it’s also a character study in healing and hope. I’ve waited many years for this book and it is one of the most incredible books I’ve read in years. Well done, Hannah. Well done.
Want to read
May 17, 2024OH MY GOODNESS, THE COVER IS HERE AND IT'S GORGEOUS! I literally can't wait!
September 29, 2024
Enthralling sequel to Moonscript. H.S.J. Williams has created another masterpiece of intrigue and redemption.
Even though several years have passed from the first book and you may be wary of missing out on several important moments in the characters lives do not worry. 😆 We get to go back and relive beautiful memories and watch the characters develop and grow.
I enjoyed everything about this story. So many emotions and thrills to be discovered.
I admit I was curious as to how a new enemy would arise as the whole series so far has been revolving around Errance discovering how to be a good King. But I’m looking forward to the books to follow. I’m sure they will shape up to be just as exciting.
Highly recommend ✨
Even though several years have passed from the first book and you may be wary of missing out on several important moments in the characters lives do not worry. 😆 We get to go back and relive beautiful memories and watch the characters develop and grow.
I enjoyed everything about this story. So many emotions and thrills to be discovered.
I admit I was curious as to how a new enemy would arise as the whole series so far has been revolving around Errance discovering how to be a good King. But I’m looking forward to the books to follow. I’m sure they will shape up to be just as exciting.
Highly recommend ✨
October 14, 2024
I want so badly to describe all the reasons why this book is so wonderful, but that would be spoiler-filled.
This book gave me the story I wasn't expecting and didn't even know I needed.
The growth, the depth, the characters who remained so true to themselves, the excellent writing style, the romance...this was about as close to a perfect sequel as one could get.
It's so hope-filled and beautiful. I can't write a review to do it justice.
I loved it even more than the first one.
If Moonscript was about salvation, Collusion is about sanctification. And I was applauding the whole time.
This book gave me the story I wasn't expecting and didn't even know I needed.
The growth, the depth, the characters who remained so true to themselves, the excellent writing style, the romance...this was about as close to a perfect sequel as one could get.
It's so hope-filled and beautiful. I can't write a review to do it justice.
I loved it even more than the first one.
If Moonscript was about salvation, Collusion is about sanctification. And I was applauding the whole time.
Currently reading
March 8, 2024H.S.J. Williams have been on my Favorite Authors list ever since I read her MOONSCRIPT (first in this series), so I'm very excited to hear about any updates regarding this next much anticipated installment!!
July 7, 2025
GO READ IT RIGHT NOW
I am SO PROUD of Errance.
That elf gives me hope for the world.
I am SO PROUD of Errance.
That elf gives me hope for the world.
October 11, 2024
This was ABSOLUTELY amazing. I've been looking forward to Collusion ever since I read Moonscript, and it was definitely worth the wait.
The characters are excellent — especially Errance. I raved about this in Moonscript, and I will rave about it here too. Collusion holds so many amazing characters, and even the minor ones shine. However, Errance is the best of them all. He’s still healing from all he went through in the first book, and Williams handles that trauma well . . . but at the same time, for all his doubts and fears, all the points where he’s broken, he’s also courageous and loving and determined to take care of his own, and he holds to what is true even when he’s struggling in his faith. I love him so much, and I loved seeing his growth over the course of this book. That said, Errance isn’t the only star here. I still love brave, resilient, loving Tryss (and I maintain that we would be excellent friends were she real). And, of course, Coren is absolutely my favorite character after Errance — still as clever and as much of a schemer and talker as ever, and still using his cleverness (and his wisdom!) for the good of others.
The antagonists are also wonderfully complex. One of the biggest changes from Moonscript to Collusion is the nature of the antagonists. Both have excellent villains, but where Moonscript gave us the utterly evil and terrifying Voice of the Darkness, Collusion's villains are a bit more human, a bit more tangled, and a bit more like people you’d see in our own world. They’re just as well characterized as the more heroic figures, and at various points, I found myself wanting to stab them for what they’d done and desperately hoping they might get a redemption arc (if not in this book, in a future one). I can’t say more without spoilers, but I think you get the idea.
Something else that delighted me? There are so many actually-married couples. I’ve been saying for at least a few years now how much I want to see (and like to see) stories that don’t stop just because the main couple got married. Wonderfully, Williams has given me (and like-minded readers) exactly what we wanted. Most of the major couples we met in Moonscript are now married, either with kids or thinking about kids, but that doesn’t stop them from having adventures and being amazing. In fact, those relationships are, in multiple cases, where they find the support and encouragement they need to keep going on the right path and to be who they’re meant to be — and I absolutely love to see it. And, on a related note . . .
Family is front and center. Y’all know that family-centric books are like catnip to me, and we see so many different family relationships highlighted here. Errance and Tryss are looking towards parenthood and figuring out what challenges that might hold (with Errance, naturally, worrying about how to be a good father when he’s so broken), and we also have Leoren being an Awesome Elf Dad (I would say “best elf dad” but there are too many people in the running for that role for me to actually pick). Errance and Tellie have maintained a sibling-ish relationship even as they’ve grown, which is lovely to see. The best of the family relationships, though, is Errance and Coren, who spend a lot of the book in each others’ company and have some amazing interactions. They make me very happy.
The best part about this book, though is the way in which it takes on dark topics without losing sight of the light. I’ve already touched on Errance’s trauma, and I will say again that Williams handles that very well. A lifetime of pain and suffering will take its toll, and many of the internal scars Errance bears have yet to fade. However, healing is still possible, and we see that again and again through this book. On a broader view, Collusion deals with many societal evils, ones that plague our world as well as the storyworld, notably issues of trafficking and sexual slavery. Williams doesn’t shy away from the darkness of these issues or the complexity of solving them, but she also handles them tastefully and makes sure to keep hope in sight. Again and again, this story reminds us that whether we’re dealing with a broken heart or a broken world, that which is shattered may yet be mended by the One who made all things.
So, yes. I loved this book, I will be rereading it, and I can't wait for the next one.
The characters are excellent — especially Errance. I raved about this in Moonscript, and I will rave about it here too. Collusion holds so many amazing characters, and even the minor ones shine. However, Errance is the best of them all. He’s still healing from all he went through in the first book, and Williams handles that trauma well . . . but at the same time, for all his doubts and fears, all the points where he’s broken, he’s also courageous and loving and determined to take care of his own, and he holds to what is true even when he’s struggling in his faith. I love him so much, and I loved seeing his growth over the course of this book. That said, Errance isn’t the only star here. I still love brave, resilient, loving Tryss (and I maintain that we would be excellent friends were she real). And, of course, Coren is absolutely my favorite character after Errance — still as clever and as much of a schemer and talker as ever, and still using his cleverness (and his wisdom!) for the good of others.
The antagonists are also wonderfully complex. One of the biggest changes from Moonscript to Collusion is the nature of the antagonists. Both have excellent villains, but where Moonscript gave us the utterly evil and terrifying Voice of the Darkness, Collusion's villains are a bit more human, a bit more tangled, and a bit more like people you’d see in our own world. They’re just as well characterized as the more heroic figures, and at various points, I found myself wanting to stab them for what they’d done and desperately hoping they might get a redemption arc (if not in this book, in a future one). I can’t say more without spoilers, but I think you get the idea.
Something else that delighted me? There are so many actually-married couples. I’ve been saying for at least a few years now how much I want to see (and like to see) stories that don’t stop just because the main couple got married. Wonderfully, Williams has given me (and like-minded readers) exactly what we wanted. Most of the major couples we met in Moonscript are now married, either with kids or thinking about kids, but that doesn’t stop them from having adventures and being amazing. In fact, those relationships are, in multiple cases, where they find the support and encouragement they need to keep going on the right path and to be who they’re meant to be — and I absolutely love to see it. And, on a related note . . .
Family is front and center. Y’all know that family-centric books are like catnip to me, and we see so many different family relationships highlighted here. Errance and Tryss are looking towards parenthood and figuring out what challenges that might hold (with Errance, naturally, worrying about how to be a good father when he’s so broken), and we also have Leoren being an Awesome Elf Dad (I would say “best elf dad” but there are too many people in the running for that role for me to actually pick). Errance and Tellie have maintained a sibling-ish relationship even as they’ve grown, which is lovely to see. The best of the family relationships, though, is Errance and Coren, who spend a lot of the book in each others’ company and have some amazing interactions. They make me very happy.
The best part about this book, though is the way in which it takes on dark topics without losing sight of the light. I’ve already touched on Errance’s trauma, and I will say again that Williams handles that very well. A lifetime of pain and suffering will take its toll, and many of the internal scars Errance bears have yet to fade. However, healing is still possible, and we see that again and again through this book. On a broader view, Collusion deals with many societal evils, ones that plague our world as well as the storyworld, notably issues of trafficking and sexual slavery. Williams doesn’t shy away from the darkness of these issues or the complexity of solving them, but she also handles them tastefully and makes sure to keep hope in sight. Again and again, this story reminds us that whether we’re dealing with a broken heart or a broken world, that which is shattered may yet be mended by the One who made all things.
So, yes. I loved this book, I will be rereading it, and I can't wait for the next one.
May 20, 2024
Sksjdlsksjk
September 27, 2024
This felt as close to a perfect sequel as one could get.
I feel like very often, authors dismiss their first book and just move on to a new story in a sequel, but this didn't. Neither was it just a part 2 of the first book. The story and characters are much changed by the time we didn't see them, but they still have a long way to go.
For Errance especially, this is obvious. As we all know, he went THROUGH it in book 1. I love the way this is still shown in book 2. He is healing but not yet healed. The character arcs also perfectly tie into this.
We also get to see allll our old friends again!
All in all, I can feel that I'll be rereading this book again soon, and probably recommending it to everyone I know.
I feel like very often, authors dismiss their first book and just move on to a new story in a sequel, but this didn't. Neither was it just a part 2 of the first book. The story and characters are much changed by the time we didn't see them, but they still have a long way to go.
For Errance especially, this is obvious. As we all know, he went THROUGH it in book 1. I love the way this is still shown in book 2. He is healing but not yet healed. The character arcs also perfectly tie into this.
We also get to see allll our old friends again!
All in all, I can feel that I'll be rereading this book again soon, and probably recommending it to everyone I know.
January 15, 2025
This was a perfect sequel to a favourite story—an impressive feat indeed! I have so much love for Moonscript (book one) so I had high hopes for this book after eagerly anticipating it, and I was truly not disappointed.
The character journey, the new things we got to see in the world, the themes of hope in the darkest places… simply beautiful.
The character journey, the new things we got to see in the world, the themes of hope in the darkest places… simply beautiful.
October 18, 2024
3.5⭐️ rounded up. RTC
July 2, 2025
Epic, vital theme I wanted to have the faith treatment of book one is still a cracking read with characters & found family dynamics I love forever. <3
Also a warning: this is a long review, so scroll to the headers that interest you or are relevent to what you are searching for :)
Celebration in a nutshell: honestly guys the Holy Spirit is all over this series in more ways than one. I was very mildly self-sabotaging in NOT letting myself read this after a few pages, scared it would be different as book one MOONSCRIPT literally changed my life in hope and healing. But all I got was the Lord’s excitement and c’mon I LOVE this series. That was encouraging enough for me to pick it up :)
Themes of breaking out of a safety blanket, so to speak, breaking the chains of the s** slave trade and invading b**hels, ALL TASTEFULLY DONE... folks, like this is literally the most clean book that has characters fighting "that" world in it you may ever read. It’s even discreet in word choice, I don’t think the three letter word is ever used (though others are and are hinted at).
Also friendship, healing, hope, selflessness, and all that powerful stuff comes into play.
BUT.
It’s more mature than book one.
CURIOUS HOW?⋆｡°✩
Where MOONSCRIPT was super intense and would be scary in real life (thought to read, at least for me, was extremely cathartic and joyful, save for some pain and suspense etc), a young Tween could read it. Here in COLLUSION we have two married couples being the main characters. And that without anything else just makes it …feel…older. Like, it’s wholesome. Nothing you wouldn’t look away at in a movie or anything. (Unless you look away at kisses or laying in bed awake together, talking, thinking, ect.). For me it feels different in a book. Like you're spying, you know? And I’m not gonna lie: a conversation a wife has with her best friend is a little bit suggestive. The friend is trying to lighten up the mood in a very stressful night, but, hey. That still amps this age level UP. And while the young adult readers won’t suffer, I would have LOVED to still be able to recommend Collusion to the same age range as book one. It just feels a bit unfair. But hey ho. I know someone else is going to be blessed by it being a bit more mature...I can’t claim them all hehe :)
THEY'RE BACK!!!!⋆｡°✩
LOVED so hard I shrieked the characters interacting again, and little snippets into their love and lives and dynamics after so long was yay! Like seeing old friends after years and I mean that!!! Some details are just ALL PERFECTION of characters happiness. I love love love it. The innocense is still found in Tellie and a lot of elements and I'm SO here for it, to use that cliche. (Sorry, Orwell).
AGE RANGE IS A TEENSY BIT OLDER FOLKS⋆｡°✩
I WAS granted, startled at one development, which I "knew" was going to happen..... But, man, 7 years had passed for them and Not for me, the humble reader, so to open the scene with two characters *spoiler* now married, sharing a room and a bed, character 1 waking up because character 2 had left due to a nightmare, and they have this trust and bond and fall asleep on the balcony outside….it felt kinda inappropriate to me. Totally allowed! Sweet! But I would have loved to EASE into this. Earn it. See the bond, the trust. *END OF SPOILER* This is just a little preference detail that maybe we can see more of the build UP of things, rather than jumps like that. Just a preference. :)
Someone probably liked diving right in! So again, don’t take this as a negative.
Sigh. I think all I'm feeling is missing out on so much fo their life :)
The mini POV with Zoren. PERFECTION. Unh-huh. That’s what I’m talking about. (Spark!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) Sounds were made. I annoyed my family. C’mon, these are like my friends lil kids! I must freak out a teeny weeny bit and now my fan girl mode has come on (I thought I retired that thing)
Another note, and probably my most important one.
⋆｡°✩
THE ONLY THING I'D HAVE ACTUALLY CHANGED:
no need to read this if you loved it all, just a musing I have been chewing on for all kinds of books, characters, and the wasy we read them.
I read Moonscript for the Narnia fantasy feel and the LIGHT. The Narnia level ALLEGORY, people. It was epic and hopeful.
Collusion is less allegory and more questions and healing (kinda). Awesome! It’s a HUGE one.
But I’ll let you make up your mind from the two dedications:
MOONSCRIPT:
“To the One who gave me this story and the Power to complete it.
And to Grammie. Your appreciation of Errence is duly noted.”
COLLUSION:
“To Grammie: I know you and Errence would have made a great match, but I promise the skinblender will take good care of him.”
Sadly “God” has slipped into a side character, or even an extra. Instead of ground breaking faith we get he usual stuff. The spiritual fantasy allegory elements are all but non existent. A whole lot of angry hurting blooming healing epic ness (which I appreciated a LOT of) with Errence, but….some of it didn’t match for me. I wanted Collusion to pick up where Moonscript left off spiritualyl, but it had just enough tweaks, and a sudden jump to Errence being the mc, to not.
Vital messages sewn in there though. This book has it all, an it may just change your life. Epic one liners, too. I’m still chewing on them. Thank you infinity, HSJW.
Style note: Collusion is almost steampunk. Or London, Dickens style? This was fun, and sooo creative, I didn’t need pistols and banks to come into it personally, but You, however may be jumping form the rooftops in joy at the twists in genre so YAY! Go get ‘em. :D It is really, really really cool ....
Shout out to the ending scenes, of all kinds!
ILLUSTRATIONS ⋆｡°✩
I love how the illustration style has grown, but I could seriously do without the men having their shirts always haling off one collarbone. We don’t need to see a bit of chest muscle to love a character, they already rock! Another reason I wouldn’t hand this to a younger reader. It felt too close the reasons I avoid manga/anime visually. For the men anyway. Tellie and other girls were So wholesome and lovely!! And it wasn’t that bad. Just enough for me to say don’t force us to love your hero, HSJ. We already think they are good looking. Let's...stay there.
The end elements: potential spoiler: Also her name was like so powerful just to where I was and what God was showing me HOW. Thank you again, Williams :)
MUCH NEEDED VOICE!!!⋆｡°✩
Another much needed tale, that I think has messages just as needed for this world. Read it. Just maybe leave out the, what others may call ‘hot hurting elf hero’ vibe next time. These books are still worth it. I’m very interested to see where book 3 goes, and I’m rooting for HSJ all the way. May it be better than you could ever dream, where ever you are, dear Author, and may you continue to bless countless readers a you have blessed me.
Thank you, any brave reader who has taken their time to read (or scan) all the way down here. I hope it was worth your time :) Any notes? Typos? Let me know XD
Also a warning: this is a long review, so scroll to the headers that interest you or are relevent to what you are searching for :)
Celebration in a nutshell: honestly guys the Holy Spirit is all over this series in more ways than one. I was very mildly self-sabotaging in NOT letting myself read this after a few pages, scared it would be different as book one MOONSCRIPT literally changed my life in hope and healing. But all I got was the Lord’s excitement and c’mon I LOVE this series. That was encouraging enough for me to pick it up :)
Themes of breaking out of a safety blanket, so to speak, breaking the chains of the s** slave trade and invading b**hels, ALL TASTEFULLY DONE... folks, like this is literally the most clean book that has characters fighting "that" world in it you may ever read. It’s even discreet in word choice, I don’t think the three letter word is ever used (though others are and are hinted at).
Also friendship, healing, hope, selflessness, and all that powerful stuff comes into play.
BUT.
It’s more mature than book one.
CURIOUS HOW?⋆｡°✩
Where MOONSCRIPT was super intense and would be scary in real life (thought to read, at least for me, was extremely cathartic and joyful, save for some pain and suspense etc), a young Tween could read it. Here in COLLUSION we have two married couples being the main characters. And that without anything else just makes it …feel…older. Like, it’s wholesome. Nothing you wouldn’t look away at in a movie or anything. (Unless you look away at kisses or laying in bed awake together, talking, thinking, ect.). For me it feels different in a book. Like you're spying, you know? And I’m not gonna lie: a conversation a wife has with her best friend is a little bit suggestive. The friend is trying to lighten up the mood in a very stressful night, but, hey. That still amps this age level UP. And while the young adult readers won’t suffer, I would have LOVED to still be able to recommend Collusion to the same age range as book one. It just feels a bit unfair. But hey ho. I know someone else is going to be blessed by it being a bit more mature...I can’t claim them all hehe :)
THEY'RE BACK!!!!⋆｡°✩
LOVED so hard I shrieked the characters interacting again, and little snippets into their love and lives and dynamics after so long was yay! Like seeing old friends after years and I mean that!!! Some details are just ALL PERFECTION of characters happiness. I love love love it. The innocense is still found in Tellie and a lot of elements and I'm SO here for it, to use that cliche. (Sorry, Orwell).
AGE RANGE IS A TEENSY BIT OLDER FOLKS⋆｡°✩
I WAS granted, startled at one development, which I "knew" was going to happen..... But, man, 7 years had passed for them and Not for me, the humble reader, so to open the scene with two characters *spoiler* now married, sharing a room and a bed, character 1 waking up because character 2 had left due to a nightmare, and they have this trust and bond and fall asleep on the balcony outside….it felt kinda inappropriate to me. Totally allowed! Sweet! But I would have loved to EASE into this. Earn it. See the bond, the trust. *END OF SPOILER* This is just a little preference detail that maybe we can see more of the build UP of things, rather than jumps like that. Just a preference. :)
Someone probably liked diving right in! So again, don’t take this as a negative.
Sigh. I think all I'm feeling is missing out on so much fo their life :)
The mini POV with Zoren. PERFECTION. Unh-huh. That’s what I’m talking about. (Spark!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) Sounds were made. I annoyed my family. C’mon, these are like my friends lil kids! I must freak out a teeny weeny bit and now my fan girl mode has come on (I thought I retired that thing)
Another note, and probably my most important one.
⋆｡°✩
THE ONLY THING I'D HAVE ACTUALLY CHANGED:
no need to read this if you loved it all, just a musing I have been chewing on for all kinds of books, characters, and the wasy we read them.
I read Moonscript for the Narnia fantasy feel and the LIGHT. The Narnia level ALLEGORY, people. It was epic and hopeful.
Collusion is less allegory and more questions and healing (kinda). Awesome! It’s a HUGE one.
But I’ll let you make up your mind from the two dedications:
MOONSCRIPT:
“To the One who gave me this story and the Power to complete it.
And to Grammie. Your appreciation of Errence is duly noted.”
COLLUSION:
“To Grammie: I know you and Errence would have made a great match, but I promise the skinblender will take good care of him.”
Sadly “God” has slipped into a side character, or even an extra. Instead of ground breaking faith we get he usual stuff. The spiritual fantasy allegory elements are all but non existent. A whole lot of angry hurting blooming healing epic ness (which I appreciated a LOT of) with Errence, but….some of it didn’t match for me. I wanted Collusion to pick up where Moonscript left off spiritualyl, but it had just enough tweaks, and a sudden jump to Errence being the mc, to not.
Vital messages sewn in there though. This book has it all, an it may just change your life. Epic one liners, too. I’m still chewing on them. Thank you infinity, HSJW.
Style note: Collusion is almost steampunk. Or London, Dickens style? This was fun, and sooo creative, I didn’t need pistols and banks to come into it personally, but You, however may be jumping form the rooftops in joy at the twists in genre so YAY! Go get ‘em. :D It is really, really really cool ....
Shout out to the ending scenes, of all kinds!
ILLUSTRATIONS ⋆｡°✩
I love how the illustration style has grown, but I could seriously do without the men having their shirts always haling off one collarbone. We don’t need to see a bit of chest muscle to love a character, they already rock! Another reason I wouldn’t hand this to a younger reader. It felt too close the reasons I avoid manga/anime visually. For the men anyway. Tellie and other girls were So wholesome and lovely!! And it wasn’t that bad. Just enough for me to say don’t force us to love your hero, HSJ. We already think they are good looking. Let's...stay there.
The end elements: potential spoiler: Also her name was like so powerful just to where I was and what God was showing me HOW. Thank you again, Williams :)
MUCH NEEDED VOICE!!!⋆｡°✩
Another much needed tale, that I think has messages just as needed for this world. Read it. Just maybe leave out the, what others may call ‘hot hurting elf hero’ vibe next time. These books are still worth it. I’m very interested to see where book 3 goes, and I’m rooting for HSJ all the way. May it be better than you could ever dream, where ever you are, dear Author, and may you continue to bless countless readers a you have blessed me.
Thank you, any brave reader who has taken their time to read (or scan) all the way down here. I hope it was worth your time :) Any notes? Typos? Let me know XD
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 5, 2025
Okay, how do you up the ante from the original story’s premise of literally escaping from hell? Well, you don’t… not like you’d think anyway. No, you give the guy a time jump to try and pull himself back together and then you kidnap his wife who is due to give birth in a few short weeks.
Talk about a struggle to hold yourself together.
And then, just for kicks, you turn it into a buddy movie by allowing his slave-freeing pirate cousin along for the ride… yeah, the incredibly cool guy from the first book who we all were desperately hoping to see again.
Not good enough? How about serious trust issues? And a mysterious sparring partner you just know is going to be important in a future storyline (I’m rooting for it being the Wraith). *future me- it’s not but the reveal is fun.
And if that isn’t enough, hey let’s finally try and do something about the sexual slave trade, because THAT part of Errance’s past wasn’t covered at all in Moonscript.
Yeah, you get where I am going with this… different stakes, but same adrenaline rush.
I am, without a doubt, now a huge fan.
Talk about a struggle to hold yourself together.
And then, just for kicks, you turn it into a buddy movie by allowing his slave-freeing pirate cousin along for the ride… yeah, the incredibly cool guy from the first book who we all were desperately hoping to see again.
Not good enough? How about serious trust issues? And a mysterious sparring partner you just know is going to be important in a future storyline (I’m rooting for it being the Wraith). *future me- it’s not but the reveal is fun.
And if that isn’t enough, hey let’s finally try and do something about the sexual slave trade, because THAT part of Errance’s past wasn’t covered at all in Moonscript.
Yeah, you get where I am going with this… different stakes, but same adrenaline rush.
I am, without a doubt, now a huge fan.
April 30, 2025
Like every adoring fan of Moonscript, I very eagerly awaited this sequeal and was all to happy to dive into the pages the moment my sister was finished.
H.S.J Williams is back with more deep themes and powerful questions, and subtle messages that pack punches even when they aren't main focus of the story. That is one of the things I loved the most about this book: the battle against the fantasy world's slavetrade, and the fighting, empowering challenge to Errance. It's a cracking jounrey of healing, selflessness, and letting go.
The world is a lot bigger than Aselvia, and the readers are about to discover a map of plots and politics, cabs and cobblestreets and every secret evil that will force Errance to look beyond his own problems.
I would have loved more of Tellie, (this innocent and noble heroine is one of the reasons I fell in love with book one; and her little sister dynamtic with Errance. That's the biggest change from book one, we don't have much of the same dynamtics, you know, the famous five ;) Tryss, Tellie, Errance, Kelm and The Dashia are never really all together.) *cough, H.S.J. Williams, maybe a Crowns of Aselvia novella on Tellie and Kelm cough* XD But! We did get more of Coren, who is another one of my favourite charcaters especially after his novella (give Crown of Sea and Sand a read before this one!) His fight and his family-- I love it so much.
To be honest, it made me a bit sad that the Unseen Releam, their God allegorical figure and the spiritul drive and light that pushed the first one was sorely... missing. Like I said, the theme was still great. God was still in it, but hardly with the real, unique influence of book one.
But still, even if you are concerned about the seven year jump (yes, it’s a little startling but don't worry we get flashbacks!) or like me, miss the idea of Tellie and the gang, trust me, you're still gonna love this one!
H.S.J Williams is back with more deep themes and powerful questions, and subtle messages that pack punches even when they aren't main focus of the story. That is one of the things I loved the most about this book: the battle against the fantasy world's slavetrade, and the fighting, empowering challenge to Errance. It's a cracking jounrey of healing, selflessness, and letting go.
The world is a lot bigger than Aselvia, and the readers are about to discover a map of plots and politics, cabs and cobblestreets and every secret evil that will force Errance to look beyond his own problems.
I would have loved more of Tellie, (this innocent and noble heroine is one of the reasons I fell in love with book one; and her little sister dynamtic with Errance. That's the biggest change from book one, we don't have much of the same dynamtics, you know, the famous five ;) Tryss, Tellie, Errance, Kelm and The Dashia are never really all together.) *cough, H.S.J. Williams, maybe a Crowns of Aselvia novella on Tellie and Kelm cough* XD But! We did get more of Coren, who is another one of my favourite charcaters especially after his novella (give Crown of Sea and Sand a read before this one!) His fight and his family-- I love it so much.
To be honest, it made me a bit sad that the Unseen Releam, their God allegorical figure and the spiritul drive and light that pushed the first one was sorely... missing. Like I said, the theme was still great. God was still in it, but hardly with the real, unique influence of book one.
But still, even if you are concerned about the seven year jump (yes, it’s a little startling but don't worry we get flashbacks!) or like me, miss the idea of Tellie and the gang, trust me, you're still gonna love this one!
December 31, 2024
A powerful story about healing from trauma. I appreciate how the book didn't skirt what Errance went through and showed what it was like to heal from the kinds of wounds he had suffered. I like how the book demonstrated how we are sometimes stronger in peril and tend to lean on God more heavily then than we do when in peace, as sad as that truth sometimes is.
This book also deals with a lot of heavy themes, even more than what I had stated above. Including prostitution and human trafficking. Though I think it deals with it in good taste. They are topics that are important to discuss, but I have seen people struggle with discussing them because they often don't know how far or how little to go. This book is perfect in the way it deals with these problems and I would recommend both teenagers and adults alike to read it.
Besides all the tension and hard topics, this book is also a fun adventure book about our favorite elf, Errance, going to rescue his wife. And while I would have liked to have seen their romance blossom more, I did love all the flashbacks of them. Williams managed to give us all that we wanted as well as showing us their married life. And I really like that, I haven't read too many books that take place after the characters have gotten married and applaud the author for a job well done!
Four years of waiting was worth it, can't wait for the next one!
What I didn't like:
I had a really hard time getting into this one and couldn't put my finger on why. I think a lot of it had to do with my mood, that I wanted to read something else. Though, thinking back, I remember taking a long time reading the first book as well. One of the things I have observed is this book tends to jump through a lot of POVs. I honestly have nothing against that. I love reading lots of POVs. But there was honestly a POV for each of the main characters, side characters, villains, and even a random guard or two (the throwaway characters as we only ever see them once). I just don't feel I need a random character's POV. I think I would rather read it in one of the main characters' POV. With the constant switching back and forth, it made it harder for me to connect with the main characters and keep my attention on the story. Besides that, occasionally this book would also be narrated in third-person omniscient POV before fading into a main character's deep third-person POV. While it's not technically head-hopping, for me, it's borderline. Which is something that I tend not to like in a writing style.
Content in Book:
1. Torture. (In past tense).
2. Prostitution and human trafficking. (Some women flirting, mentions of a woman trying to bed a man, women in different states of undress (not destructive), etc. Enough information that you are given the context of what is happening but remains non-destructive and there are no sex scenes shown or heavily implied).
3. Kidnapping. (The use of drugs to cause someone to faint, holding someone in peril).
4. A woman is pregnant. (and
5. Mentions of someone burning to death and trying to burn someone to death. (Mentions of burns).
6. Violence. (Fighting with weapons and hand-to-hand combat).
7. Some romantic moments between a married couple. (Nothing explicit happens).
8. Demons.
Who I Would Recommend This Book To:
Those who want a Christian fantasy story with a light versus darkness theme. Those who want an intriguing world with very well-done descriptions. Those who want intriguing characters. Those who want to read about married characters. Those who want to read about healing from trauma. Those who want a clean book that properly discusses prostitution and human trafficking.
This book also deals with a lot of heavy themes, even more than what I had stated above. Including prostitution and human trafficking. Though I think it deals with it in good taste. They are topics that are important to discuss, but I have seen people struggle with discussing them because they often don't know how far or how little to go. This book is perfect in the way it deals with these problems and I would recommend both teenagers and adults alike to read it.
Besides all the tension and hard topics, this book is also a fun adventure book about our favorite elf, Errance, going to rescue his wife. And while I would have liked to have seen their romance blossom more, I did love all the flashbacks of them. Williams managed to give us all that we wanted as well as showing us their married life. And I really like that, I haven't read too many books that take place after the characters have gotten married and applaud the author for a job well done!
Four years of waiting was worth it, can't wait for the next one!
What I didn't like:
I had a really hard time getting into this one and couldn't put my finger on why. I think a lot of it had to do with my mood, that I wanted to read something else. Though, thinking back, I remember taking a long time reading the first book as well. One of the things I have observed is this book tends to jump through a lot of POVs. I honestly have nothing against that. I love reading lots of POVs. But there was honestly a POV for each of the main characters, side characters, villains, and even a random guard or two (the throwaway characters as we only ever see them once). I just don't feel I need a random character's POV. I think I would rather read it in one of the main characters' POV. With the constant switching back and forth, it made it harder for me to connect with the main characters and keep my attention on the story. Besides that, occasionally this book would also be narrated in third-person omniscient POV before fading into a main character's deep third-person POV. While it's not technically head-hopping, for me, it's borderline. Which is something that I tend not to like in a writing style.
Content in Book:
1. Torture. (In past tense).
2. Prostitution and human trafficking. (Some women flirting, mentions of a woman trying to bed a man, women in different states of undress (not destructive), etc. Enough information that you are given the context of what is happening but remains non-destructive and there are no sex scenes shown or heavily implied).
3. Kidnapping. (The use of drugs to cause someone to faint, holding someone in peril).
4. A woman is pregnant. (and
5. Mentions of someone burning to death and trying to burn someone to death. (Mentions of burns).
6. Violence. (Fighting with weapons and hand-to-hand combat).
7. Some romantic moments between a married couple. (Nothing explicit happens).
8. Demons.
Who I Would Recommend This Book To:
Those who want a Christian fantasy story with a light versus darkness theme. Those who want an intriguing world with very well-done descriptions. Those who want intriguing characters. Those who want to read about married characters. Those who want to read about healing from trauma. Those who want a clean book that properly discusses prostitution and human trafficking.
November 20, 2024
Wow.
Where to even start?
Collusion has been one of my most anticipated releases since when I read Moonscript back in 2021.
And I'm glad to attest it has lived up to my expectations.
This very Presence was answer enough, even if he felt too small to understand why. It was power, it was wisdom, it was love. It was enough.
The message of the first book was salvation, this one felt more akin to the themes of Prince Caspian. Learning to trust God even when you can't hear him, and the desire to shine a light on a broken world.
Let's start from the things I loved. First off, how much this story revolved around families. The main characters are all married, in various stages of starting families, but this doesn't turn their lives boring, inactive, or sedentary. They still travel the world, live adventures, and find their strenght and comfort in their families. Also, I must admit I wasn't an Errance fan girl back when I first read Moonscript, but can now say that reading about him in this book changed my mind. I loved seeing his dedication to save Tryss and the baby, and the fighting scenes with him were always amazing to read. His struggles felt so real too, I was so heartbroken whenever he woulds state how he felt weak and a burden.
Another element I really enjoyed was Tryss and Dayhlia's friendship. It's so refreshing to see a healthy, female friendship take so much space in a book, without there being any competition or bad blood between them, but just a lot of love and support for one another.
There are some things I would've changed though, for example I would loved to see more of Tellie and Kelm, especially their relationship, Kelm's humor, and Tellie's power, which only gets mentioned a few times throughout the book but never used.
Some lines felt a bit clunky, and took me out of the story at times.
Overall, this was definetly a 5-Star Read. I haven't finshed a book this quickly in a long time, I was just so hooked to the story, and I can't wait for the next installment in the series!
Where to even start?
Collusion has been one of my most anticipated releases since when I read Moonscript back in 2021.
And I'm glad to attest it has lived up to my expectations.
This very Presence was answer enough, even if he felt too small to understand why. It was power, it was wisdom, it was love. It was enough.
The message of the first book was salvation, this one felt more akin to the themes of Prince Caspian. Learning to trust God even when you can't hear him, and the desire to shine a light on a broken world.
Let's start from the things I loved. First off, how much this story revolved around families. The main characters are all married, in various stages of starting families, but this doesn't turn their lives boring, inactive, or sedentary. They still travel the world, live adventures, and find their strenght and comfort in their families. Also, I must admit I wasn't an Errance fan girl back when I first read Moonscript, but can now say that reading about him in this book changed my mind. I loved seeing his dedication to save Tryss and the baby, and the fighting scenes with him were always amazing to read. His struggles felt so real too, I was so heartbroken whenever he woulds state how he felt weak and a burden.
Another element I really enjoyed was Tryss and Dayhlia's friendship. It's so refreshing to see a healthy, female friendship take so much space in a book, without there being any competition or bad blood between them, but just a lot of love and support for one another.
There are some things I would've changed though, for example I would loved to see more of Tellie and Kelm, especially their relationship, Kelm's humor, and Tellie's power, which only gets mentioned a few times throughout the book but never used.
Some lines felt a bit clunky, and took me out of the story at times.
Overall, this was definetly a 5-Star Read. I haven't finshed a book this quickly in a long time, I was just so hooked to the story, and I can't wait for the next installment in the series!
December 19, 2024
There’s so many things to talk about with this book, but a huge highlight for me was the themes. Williams has a gift for imparting wisdom so organically and naturally in her stories, that quite often makes me teary-eyed. I loved the theme of doing things with God’s strength versus relying solely your own (for some reason that’s one I need to keep hearing). It perfectly sets up another theme, where Errance is now moving beyond himself and Aselvia and out into the world, and I am so excited for where this is leading us! I also really loved how Williams deals with trauma and healing. Errance learning to come to grips with his trauma felt very realistic, which makes the steps he takes to move forward all the more powerful.
No spoilers but the antagonist in Collusion is totally different than Moonscript’s — while not utterly terrifying like The Voice, this one was extremely fascinating and compelling, especially in the relatability of the antagonist’s thought process and how the antagonist and Errance relate (and I won’t say anything more!).
The worldbuilding is always a highlight for me with this series, and getting to see the world to a larger extent was fascinating. I loved seeing all the repeat characters, even minor characters like the old miner. Everyone feels significance in Williams’ world, which I feel like I don’t see as much generally in stories. The narrative leaves a lot of threads that could be picked up with various side characters and I am so intrigued to see where the next book will take them. (Corren is still one of my favorites, but I am rooting for more Kelm and Tellie lol).
Speaking of threads, while the main plot wraps up neatly, we’re also set up for a lot of future conflict and I quite literally cannot wait. Overall, such a good read that leaves me eagerly awaiting the next installment!
No spoilers but the antagonist in Collusion is totally different than Moonscript’s — while not utterly terrifying like The Voice, this one was extremely fascinating and compelling, especially in the relatability of the antagonist’s thought process and how the antagonist and Errance relate (and I won’t say anything more!).
The worldbuilding is always a highlight for me with this series, and getting to see the world to a larger extent was fascinating. I loved seeing all the repeat characters, even minor characters like the old miner. Everyone feels significance in Williams’ world, which I feel like I don’t see as much generally in stories. The narrative leaves a lot of threads that could be picked up with various side characters and I am so intrigued to see where the next book will take them. (Corren is still one of my favorites, but I am rooting for more Kelm and Tellie lol).
Speaking of threads, while the main plot wraps up neatly, we’re also set up for a lot of future conflict and I quite literally cannot wait. Overall, such a good read that leaves me eagerly awaiting the next installment!
December 2, 2025
Just because you're saved, doesn't mean the journey is over...
I really loved this book more than I initially thought. At first, I was frustrated with grumpy Errance and the same basic plot line of a kidnapping. But as I got further in the book, I realized what Williams was doing and how she was growing Errance into the king he needs to be. I really liked seeing how Errance came to recognize his own pride still lingered and how he needed God. I also found the various villains to be interesting. One who is more like a villain you love to hate and another who is an extremist. The novel ended well, but with hints of more to come, which was exciting. Overall, the deeper messages and wonderful characters carried this story to its awesome conclusion.
I really loved this book more than I initially thought. At first, I was frustrated with grumpy Errance and the same basic plot line of a kidnapping. But as I got further in the book, I realized what Williams was doing and how she was growing Errance into the king he needs to be. I really liked seeing how Errance came to recognize his own pride still lingered and how he needed God. I also found the various villains to be interesting. One who is more like a villain you love to hate and another who is an extremist. The novel ended well, but with hints of more to come, which was exciting. Overall, the deeper messages and wonderful characters carried this story to its awesome conclusion.
September 28, 2024
An amazing continuance of Errance’s story!
I absolutely loved reading Collusion! I read Moonscript for the first time nearly two years ago, and I fell in love with the story and the characters right away. Seeing them growing, changing, and becoming who they were meant to be in this sequel was SO rewarding.
I also received a lot of personal encouragement from the author’s wise words spoken through her characters, especially in the season that I’m in right now. This was beautifully written, and it touched me in a big way. I’m so very thankful for this book and the God-given truth that is woven through it.
I absolutely loved reading Collusion! I read Moonscript for the first time nearly two years ago, and I fell in love with the story and the characters right away. Seeing them growing, changing, and becoming who they were meant to be in this sequel was SO rewarding.
I also received a lot of personal encouragement from the author’s wise words spoken through her characters, especially in the season that I’m in right now. This was beautifully written, and it touched me in a big way. I’m so very thankful for this book and the God-given truth that is woven through it.
February 15, 2025
Enjoyed this probably as much as the first book, which was a great deal. Its a very different plot and I'd almost say a different genre, as the first deals more with a kind of lord of the ring-esque team coming onto a quest and dealing with more of a vague darkness, whereas this one deals with very human grey and dark characters and has to do more with themes relating to mature relationships and self-doubt.
It was good though, very good.
Content warnings (minor spoilers)
Coarse language: none
Violence & gore: moderate violence thouh only midly on-screen, no gore
Sexual content: some of the main characters struggle internally with the idea of physical intimacy but there is no explicit or spicy content shown or discussed; its an absolutely no-steam, only chaste kissing book. The plot does take some of the characters to the darker streets of the city where they are directly confronted with trafficking
It was good though, very good.
Content warnings (minor spoilers)
Coarse language: none
Violence & gore: moderate violence thouh only midly on-screen, no gore
Sexual content: some of the main characters struggle internally with the idea of physical intimacy but there is no explicit or spicy content shown or discussed; its an absolutely no-steam, only chaste kissing book. The plot does take some of the characters to the darker streets of the city where they are directly confronted with trafficking
May 9, 2025
10/10
How did she do it yet again? This book offers so much in one neat little package!
Collusion contains even more immense world building than Moonscript & tons of political intrigue. That being said, it never drifts too far away from our complex cast of characters.
We see why the heroes & villains do what they do & more. Like last time, you will laugh at the banter & camaraderie. There are also beautiful family bonding moments & carefully crafted romances. I liked that these romances took place after marriage & looked back. It was different from what I’m used to reading.
All of them learn to grow within & for one another. Especially after having gone through so much in the first book already. Things aren’t just happily ever after.
Trials still come & we face fears, oppression, mercy vs justice, kidnapping, & faith alongside them.
With everything wrapping up so nicely in this installment, I can hardly wait for Celestial to shed some light on our “loose ends”. Hehe
How did she do it yet again? This book offers so much in one neat little package!
Collusion contains even more immense world building than Moonscript & tons of political intrigue. That being said, it never drifts too far away from our complex cast of characters.
We see why the heroes & villains do what they do & more. Like last time, you will laugh at the banter & camaraderie. There are also beautiful family bonding moments & carefully crafted romances. I liked that these romances took place after marriage & looked back. It was different from what I’m used to reading.
All of them learn to grow within & for one another. Especially after having gone through so much in the first book already. Things aren’t just happily ever after.
Trials still come & we face fears, oppression, mercy vs justice, kidnapping, & faith alongside them.
With everything wrapping up so nicely in this installment, I can hardly wait for Celestial to shed some light on our “loose ends”. Hehe
December 17, 2025
Absolutely wonderful in every way. Watching Errance grow was so fun but also encouraging to me.
*mild spoilers*
Especially encouraging since I’ve really struggled with anxiety at night in recent months (similar to Errance but less extreme, thankfully). Seeing Errance work through his nighttime struggles with the hope of his Savior brought me comfort. He and I both like when sunrise comes🤗
*end of mild spoilers*
The plot also thickens for the continuing of the overall series and I’m pumped. I love these characters so much and can’t wait to keep following their journey in Celestial!
Also, I love the running joke in this book about Errance’s beauty and Erre Berry😂
*mild spoilers*
Especially encouraging since I’ve really struggled with anxiety at night in recent months (similar to Errance but less extreme, thankfully). Seeing Errance work through his nighttime struggles with the hope of his Savior brought me comfort. He and I both like when sunrise comes🤗
*end of mild spoilers*
The plot also thickens for the continuing of the overall series and I’m pumped. I love these characters so much and can’t wait to keep following their journey in Celestial!
Also, I love the running joke in this book about Errance’s beauty and Erre Berry😂
December 6, 2024
4.5 stars
The year I read Moonscript, it was my favorite book. This sequel is a perfect follow up. The story picks up a few years where book 1 left off and it was engaging and Errances healing and struggles were beautifully done. Can't wait for the next book.
The year I read Moonscript, it was my favorite book. This sequel is a perfect follow up. The story picks up a few years where book 1 left off and it was engaging and Errances healing and struggles were beautifully done. Can't wait for the next book.
October 30, 2025
Review January 2025:
Wow. This was amazing! And definitely worth the wait!
Seven years has passed since Errance was freed from the Darkness... but he's still struggling with the scars and the after effects of 70 years of imprisonment... torture... and all sorts of evil things done to him. (*shudders*) Even after being married to his true love for two years... he's struggling. Not only with his past but his worthiness. Worthiness of being a king... a husband... a good man.
Then, an unthinkable happens: his queen is kidnapped, sending him on a quest beyond the saftey of his elven kingdom. Little does he know that his wife's kidnapping is just the beginning... especially as he enters a world run by greed, politics, and even sensual slavery. Will the pains of his past and anger of injustice consume him and destroy everyone he loves... or will he turn to the One who saved him... and holds his destiny?
Goodness, this was such a weighty book! You can tell that the world and the characters we came to love has grown. We see glimpses of the Northern chemas, but more of the human worlds with advancements that seem to lean more towards "Gaslamp", which was intriguing. (As someone loves medieval fantasy, but I was a tiny-bit put off by emergence of guns and clocks... but at least there's still swords and horses! (But that's just me!)
In many ways, the story doesn't shy away from terrible injustices we see in our world today (greed, treachery, hatred, human trafficing...). Some of the characters practically disturbing, like two certain deadly Northern Chemas...and a few lords (who won't be named for spoilers).
And yet, it was so perfectly balanced with heartwarming and uplifting moments. I adored the friendships! AH! The friendships all but grown between Coren and Errance, but I LOVED LOVED the bond between Trys and Dahlya! (We need more genuine female friendships!) Then there were the sweetest moments of family-- Tellie and Kelm! Tellie and her adoptive parents! Coren and his family! And then... the romance between Errance and Tryss... even in marriage! ***Squee!***
But best of all were the moments of HOPE. That in the midst of greed, hatred, and strife... pain, fear, and despair... there is trust, peace, and love.... healing, courage, and faith.
And GOD is ALWAYS in control. Always present. Always... with us!
The best thing about these series is that each can stand perfectly one their own, but the adventures get better and better! (Looking forward to Book 3!)
Wow. This was amazing! And definitely worth the wait!
Seven years has passed since Errance was freed from the Darkness... but he's still struggling with the scars and the after effects of 70 years of imprisonment... torture... and all sorts of evil things done to him. (*shudders*) Even after being married to his true love for two years... he's struggling. Not only with his past but his worthiness. Worthiness of being a king... a husband... a good man.
Then, an unthinkable happens: his queen is kidnapped, sending him on a quest beyond the saftey of his elven kingdom. Little does he know that his wife's kidnapping is just the beginning... especially as he enters a world run by greed, politics, and even sensual slavery. Will the pains of his past and anger of injustice consume him and destroy everyone he loves... or will he turn to the One who saved him... and holds his destiny?
Goodness, this was such a weighty book! You can tell that the world and the characters we came to love has grown. We see glimpses of the Northern chemas, but more of the human worlds with advancements that seem to lean more towards "Gaslamp", which was intriguing. (As someone loves medieval fantasy, but I was a tiny-bit put off by emergence of guns and clocks... but at least there's still swords and horses! (But that's just me!)
In many ways, the story doesn't shy away from terrible injustices we see in our world today (greed, treachery, hatred, human trafficing...). Some of the characters practically disturbing, like two certain deadly Northern Chemas...and a few lords (who won't be named for spoilers).
And yet, it was so perfectly balanced with heartwarming and uplifting moments. I adored the friendships! AH! The friendships all but grown between Coren and Errance, but I LOVED LOVED the bond between Trys and Dahlya! (We need more genuine female friendships!) Then there were the sweetest moments of family-- Tellie and Kelm! Tellie and her adoptive parents! Coren and his family! And then... the romance between Errance and Tryss... even in marriage! ***Squee!***
But best of all were the moments of HOPE. That in the midst of greed, hatred, and strife... pain, fear, and despair... there is trust, peace, and love.... healing, courage, and faith.
And GOD is ALWAYS in control. Always present. Always... with us!
The best thing about these series is that each can stand perfectly one their own, but the adventures get better and better! (Looking forward to Book 3!)
March 5, 2025
Love. Learn. Live.
It should have been simple. It never should have been so hard.
A story of mercy, love, forgiveness, and deep, real healing of mind, body, and spirit, Collusion is a beautiful, light-filled sequel to Moonscript. There’s political intrigue, family bonds, lovely married romance, action and courage, traversing the world of Orim, and many appearances of beloved characters from this series (and maybe just a tiny flavor of noble piracy? After all, Coren is involved!).
Darkness and shadow run deep and stain heavily, yet the joy of Ayeshune always holds the victory. The tale of Errance and co. is a marvelous adventure that shines the truth richly and brightly.
June 17, 2025
Content:
Profanity: There is a character that uses 'god' and he is asked if he thinks God appreciates him using His name like that. That's all though.
Violence: High mild-low moderate. There is a lot of peril through this. Kidnapping, stabbing, burns, poisoning, and mild blood depictions. Nothing is overtly graphic, but the violence is stated and not ignored.
Sexual: High mild. There is a lot of talk about the 'sensual slave trade' and a raid on a brothel at one point. Prostitutes are on screen and offering themselves (nothing is done or accepted), and it isn't glossed over that many women are there both by choice and not, and many don't know any other way of life. Everything is again, done in a way to bring attention to the evil of it and compassion for the victims. There is also subtle talk of marital intimacy, but only between two women who talk about children and worry for their spouse. There are kisses, hugs, and husband and wife cuddling in bed (nothing sensual).
Triggers: mild-moderate spoiler Spoiler for how the previous spoiler turns out...
This took me about 3 days to read, but the gap between when I started and finished was almost three weeks. Why? Because I was SO EMOTIONAL about the plot and was having anxiety on behalf of the kidnapped character in this.
BUT!
The book was a perfect, wonderful sequel to Moonscript. Errance has been free from Tertorem for seven years. He's been doing everything he can to heal, to meet the expectations of his people, and to be everything a good king should be. But the problem is...he feels like an utter failure, and he's scared to death because he still feels broken. He still fights the darkness, trauma, and nightmares from his 70 year imprisonment, and his frustration with not getting answers to his prayers reaches peak. Like a lot of people, he wants to do the right things, to be a good person after he's believed and accepted God, but the silence after he prays opens doubt, and re-opens wounds that make him feel worthless and inadequate for all he's responsible for.
And, as often happens, Errance is thrown off the deep end when His self-recriminations are deafening as his guilt at not going with her builds until he impulsively leaps on to the Daisha to find her.
What Errance finds is a world both corrupt and beautiful, full of goodness and evil, and he sees others victim to the things he suffered for decades. And his heart burns with determination to help them, even as he searches for his own loved one in desperation.
I loved reading Errance's continuing journey. The first book was all about his redemption and how he comes to accept God and becomes a follower of Him. This book is about how Errance finds true healing, and how God answers prayer and helps in the most unexpected ways at the most unexpected times. There were so many scenes in this that were powerful, teaching the way to move through fear, doubt, and the ongoing pain of trauma. One of my favorites was when That entire scene was realistic, healing, and showed how we affect each other on life's journey.
I learned a few things reading this for my own personal questions and faith. I think that's why I've enjoyed Williams' books so much. They preach without being preachy. They teach without being condescending. They show the hope available even to fallible, fallen people, and the power one person can have when they decide to help those around them.
This book reminds me of a quote I just heard:
fear is saying "what if" the road ahead is uncertain?
faith is saying, "even if" the road ahead is uncertain.
The thing I love best about these books compared to other Christian fantasy books is that the author focuses on the real struggle it is to have faith, to trust, and move forward into uncertainty while keeping belief alive, even as it feels like everything is falling apart. She shows how faith isn't blind, but a deeply courageous choice to move past fear and trust your heart, and the experiences that proved that faith to be True.
There is so much in this book to praise. I could go on for a very long time. It was so worth the wait.
And seeing where it all goes gives me the BEST kind of anticipation for the series to continue!
Profanity: There is a character that uses 'god' and he is asked if he thinks God appreciates him using His name like that. That's all though.
Violence: High mild-low moderate. There is a lot of peril through this. Kidnapping, stabbing, burns, poisoning, and mild blood depictions. Nothing is overtly graphic, but the violence is stated and not ignored.
Sexual: High mild. There is a lot of talk about the 'sensual slave trade' and a raid on a brothel at one point. Prostitutes are on screen and offering themselves (nothing is done or accepted), and it isn't glossed over that many women are there both by choice and not, and many don't know any other way of life. Everything is again, done in a way to bring attention to the evil of it and compassion for the victims. There is also subtle talk of marital intimacy, but only between two women who talk about children and worry for their spouse. There are kisses, hugs, and husband and wife cuddling in bed (nothing sensual).
Triggers: mild-moderate spoiler Spoiler for how the previous spoiler turns out...
This took me about 3 days to read, but the gap between when I started and finished was almost three weeks. Why? Because I was SO EMOTIONAL about the plot and was having anxiety on behalf of the kidnapped character in this.
BUT!
The book was a perfect, wonderful sequel to Moonscript. Errance has been free from Tertorem for seven years. He's been doing everything he can to heal, to meet the expectations of his people, and to be everything a good king should be. But the problem is...he feels like an utter failure, and he's scared to death because he still feels broken. He still fights the darkness, trauma, and nightmares from his 70 year imprisonment, and his frustration with not getting answers to his prayers reaches peak. Like a lot of people, he wants to do the right things, to be a good person after he's believed and accepted God, but the silence after he prays opens doubt, and re-opens wounds that make him feel worthless and inadequate for all he's responsible for.
And, as often happens, Errance is thrown off the deep end when His self-recriminations are deafening as his guilt at not going with her builds until he impulsively leaps on to the Daisha to find her.
What Errance finds is a world both corrupt and beautiful, full of goodness and evil, and he sees others victim to the things he suffered for decades. And his heart burns with determination to help them, even as he searches for his own loved one in desperation.
I loved reading Errance's continuing journey. The first book was all about his redemption and how he comes to accept God and becomes a follower of Him. This book is about how Errance finds true healing, and how God answers prayer and helps in the most unexpected ways at the most unexpected times. There were so many scenes in this that were powerful, teaching the way to move through fear, doubt, and the ongoing pain of trauma. One of my favorites was when That entire scene was realistic, healing, and showed how we affect each other on life's journey.
I learned a few things reading this for my own personal questions and faith. I think that's why I've enjoyed Williams' books so much. They preach without being preachy. They teach without being condescending. They show the hope available even to fallible, fallen people, and the power one person can have when they decide to help those around them.
This book reminds me of a quote I just heard:
fear is saying "what if" the road ahead is uncertain?
faith is saying, "even if" the road ahead is uncertain.
The thing I love best about these books compared to other Christian fantasy books is that the author focuses on the real struggle it is to have faith, to trust, and move forward into uncertainty while keeping belief alive, even as it feels like everything is falling apart. She shows how faith isn't blind, but a deeply courageous choice to move past fear and trust your heart, and the experiences that proved that faith to be True.
There is so much in this book to praise. I could go on for a very long time. It was so worth the wait.
And seeing where it all goes gives me the BEST kind of anticipation for the series to continue!
November 10, 2024
The characters I loved best grew up. They got married, settled, took up thrones.
Now I find they're still storming the world.
Seven years have come and gone, uncertain people before now grown, finally finding the courage and winning the heart they've always wanted, a home they've dreamed of, a place that's real and where darkness is far behind them.
At least most of them.
I was slightly horrified to find that after all that time, all the healing that should have happened, all the people that loved him and wanted to make him feel okay...
Errance still had nightmares.
Bad nightmares.
But with some soothing tea, loving relatives, a kingdom far, far from danger where you sit upon the throne, and a promise of something new and wonderful on the horizen, you should be okay, right?
No.
And when that is coupled with a decision you made that turns into a horror possibly you couldn't even imagine and did not see coming, what would you do?
Maybe think about it. Call for help. Inquire with The Moonscript.
Ah, but Errance. Errance hasn't fully healed yet.
And now he's going to bring the world down.
But inner turmoil can block a lot of things. Pretenders have a lot to hide. People who've been wanting access to the kingdom for years and the innocents on the street corner are now identical shadows in his cloud of desperation. And if one manages to slip through...
His world might really be destroyed.
All the changes and twists of the plot shine with the quirky and colorful imaginings and dialogue of H.S.J Williams. The red-head and all his flippant and springy conversations is back. The flying, sarcastic and rather cultured creature is still complaining about the rides she is subject to in the name of certain peril.
Never gets old.
Now I find they're still storming the world.
Seven years have come and gone, uncertain people before now grown, finally finding the courage and winning the heart they've always wanted, a home they've dreamed of, a place that's real and where darkness is far behind them.
At least most of them.
I was slightly horrified to find that after all that time, all the healing that should have happened, all the people that loved him and wanted to make him feel okay...
Errance still had nightmares.
Bad nightmares.
But with some soothing tea, loving relatives, a kingdom far, far from danger where you sit upon the throne, and a promise of something new and wonderful on the horizen, you should be okay, right?
No.
And when that is coupled with a decision you made that turns into a horror possibly you couldn't even imagine and did not see coming, what would you do?
Maybe think about it. Call for help. Inquire with The Moonscript.
Ah, but Errance. Errance hasn't fully healed yet.
And now he's going to bring the world down.
But inner turmoil can block a lot of things. Pretenders have a lot to hide. People who've been wanting access to the kingdom for years and the innocents on the street corner are now identical shadows in his cloud of desperation. And if one manages to slip through...
His world might really be destroyed.
All the changes and twists of the plot shine with the quirky and colorful imaginings and dialogue of H.S.J Williams. The red-head and all his flippant and springy conversations is back. The flying, sarcastic and rather cultured creature is still complaining about the rides she is subject to in the name of certain peril.
Never gets old.
September 13, 2025
Collusion is an INCREDIBLE follow up to Moonscript, not to mention just straight up amazing in its own right!! I couldn't really say which I like better, because they're both SO good in such different ways!!!
It's absolutely FABULOUS to get to see all the characters from book one again, and see how their lives have changed and grown in the seven years between books, especially Certain Ships, hehehehehe. Errance's growth, especially! I love his arc through this book, it's INCREDIBLE
Honestly, I can't recommend this book, and this whole series, enough, it's so good!!!!!!
It's absolutely FABULOUS to get to see all the characters from book one again, and see how their lives have changed and grown in the seven years between books, especially Certain Ships, hehehehehe. Errance's growth, especially! I love his arc through this book, it's INCREDIBLE
Honestly, I can't recommend this book, and this whole series, enough, it's so good!!!!!!
April 25, 2025
AWESOME! As a sequel to Moonscript - it did not disappoint. I love Collusion just as much as Moonscript.
Some of my Favorites (I couldn't possibly name them all): The back story of Errance and Tryss just touches your heart; The changes that shape Errance as he battles the internal scars of his past imprisonment from The Darkness give hope for healing; Captain Coren - what can I say, LOVE HIM! So many spiritual 'truths' emanate from the plot and characters.
Can't wait to read the third book when it comes out.
Some of my Favorites (I couldn't possibly name them all): The back story of Errance and Tryss just touches your heart; The changes that shape Errance as he battles the internal scars of his past imprisonment from The Darkness give hope for healing; Captain Coren - what can I say, LOVE HIM! So many spiritual 'truths' emanate from the plot and characters.
Can't wait to read the third book when it comes out.
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