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Stones of Fire #2
Down into the Pit
Following a narrow escape from the secret world of warring shapeshifters, Ellie St. James works at building a new life under an assumed identity—until Carter Ballis, head of security for mob boss and shifter leader Sean Costas reenters her life, bringing the perils of his job with him. This time, it’s not just Ellie’s life at stake, but Carter’s too, as Sean’s rivals close in on them both. Far outmatched, Ellie refuses to crumble when it comes to protecting those around her. However, when a partial translation of the magical Stones of Fire, coupled with a terrible misunderstanding, thrust Ellie into the gravest danger she’s faced yet, even the Talos himself may not be able to reach her in time...
- GenresFantasyUrban Fantasy
244 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2020
55 people are currently reading
172 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Ashwood
25 books942 followers Don't believe all the hype. Sarah Ashwood isn't really a gladiator, a Highlander, a fencer, a skilled horsewoman, an archer, a magic wielder, or a martial arts expert. That's only in her mind. In real life, she's a genuine Okie from Muskogee, who grew up in the wooded hills outside the oldest town in Oklahoma, USA, and holds a B.A. in English from American Military University. She now lives (mostly) quietly at home with her husband and four children, where she tries to sneak in a daily run or workout to save her sanity and keep her mind fresh for her next story.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
For a complete list of all Sarah's works and the links to find them, as well as her social media contacts and newsletter sign up, visit her website at www.sarahashwoodauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 15, 2021
These books have such much of a superrrrr slow burn. Just hints of a possible romance that might come about in the future.
Interesting stories. Easy to follow. Solid three star book.
Interesting stories. Easy to follow. Solid three star book.
May 30, 2021
Sarah Ashwood sure knows how to end a book! I enjoyed this book more than the first book, and the climactic cliffhanger ending has me eager to read the next book in the series. I liked that we got to see more relationship development between Carter and Ellie in this book, and while some of their arguments were still a bit awkward, I liked seeing them back together and having a chance to talk some things out. They are both so stubborn, so it will be interesting to see how they work things out/what will happen in the next book.
I also enjoy Detective Candice Ewing. While she hasn't had an enormous role to play so far, I hope we get to see her more involved in the following books. I love her determination and tendency to push forward with things, even when she's told to back off.
While there was a significant development with the Stones of Fire, I felt like, in general, the focus on the romance/relationship pushed them towards the back burner. Maybe if Ellie makes a firm commitment to the shifter war, we'll learn more about them. Right now, this series seems more focused on the slow burn romance than the shifters and their different viewpoints. I'm hoping to see more of the shifter aspects in the future books, but I'm also eager to see what happens with Ellie and Carter.
With some edgier content and mild swearing, this book fits comfortably into the new adult genre and should appeal to mature teens and college-age readers.
I also enjoy Detective Candice Ewing. While she hasn't had an enormous role to play so far, I hope we get to see her more involved in the following books. I love her determination and tendency to push forward with things, even when she's told to back off.
While there was a significant development with the Stones of Fire, I felt like, in general, the focus on the romance/relationship pushed them towards the back burner. Maybe if Ellie makes a firm commitment to the shifter war, we'll learn more about them. Right now, this series seems more focused on the slow burn romance than the shifters and their different viewpoints. I'm hoping to see more of the shifter aspects in the future books, but I'm also eager to see what happens with Ellie and Carter.
With some edgier content and mild swearing, this book fits comfortably into the new adult genre and should appeal to mature teens and college-age readers.
November 30, 2020
Thank you, Sarah Ashwood, for sending me the second book in the Stones of Fire series. it truly means a lot!
Rating - 5 / 5 stars
WHOA! I don't know what to say because of that ending! Sara Ashwood has to be the queen of cliffhangers because her endings always keep me wanting the next book. I said this in my review for the first book but here it goes: I'm willing to do whatever it takes for the next book to be released tomorrow!
All of that aside, my favorite part of this entire book was when Carter was fumbling when trying to explain his "marriage" to Elie to Elie's father. It was such a cute scene and for the first time, we were able to see Carter off his ball game and struggling to impress his father-in-law. I loved Elie even more in this book because we finally get to see her take control of her situation instead of waiting for Carter to save her. She is even more confident when she is pushed back into the shifter world while trying to figure out her feelings for Carter. In this novel, especially, we get to see even more of the people that Carter works with and learn more about the behind-the-scenes workers in Sean's empire.
I have so much to say but I don't know how to say in words. The ending is torturing me, I love Elie and Carter, and I can't wait for the next novel!!!
Rating - 5 / 5 stars
WHOA! I don't know what to say because of that ending! Sara Ashwood has to be the queen of cliffhangers because her endings always keep me wanting the next book. I said this in my review for the first book but here it goes: I'm willing to do whatever it takes for the next book to be released tomorrow!
All of that aside, my favorite part of this entire book was when Carter was fumbling when trying to explain his "marriage" to Elie to Elie's father. It was such a cute scene and for the first time, we were able to see Carter off his ball game and struggling to impress his father-in-law. I loved Elie even more in this book because we finally get to see her take control of her situation instead of waiting for Carter to save her. She is even more confident when she is pushed back into the shifter world while trying to figure out her feelings for Carter. In this novel, especially, we get to see even more of the people that Carter works with and learn more about the behind-the-scenes workers in Sean's empire.
I have so much to say but I don't know how to say in words. The ending is torturing me, I love Elie and Carter, and I can't wait for the next novel!!!
Read
November 19, 2020Honestly, the awkwardness between Carter and Ellie's dad at the beginning of the book is one of my favorite moments I've written, and it set the stage for me to play on that relationship throughout the rest of the series. Hey, in-laws can be complicated, in real life and in fiction!
November 12, 2020
I have no words ... I just finished the book and I am not sure if I want to scream or cry in frustration. Sarah, how could you end it like that? I am totally gutted (see what I did there). I don't know if I can wait until January 2021 *sob*
Anyway ... This book was a good as the first one! Being in Carter's head for a change was great, seeing how he thinks and feels.
Detective Candace only had a small part in this book, but I think the author is building up to a bigger role for her.
This is a thrill-a-second-roller-coaster-tsunami of a read. You have to read the first one to truly appreciate this one though. You will find my review for Ashes on the Earth here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Suffice it to say, I loved the book and cannot wait for the next one!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Anyway ... This book was a good as the first one! Being in Carter's head for a change was great, seeing how he thinks and feels.
Detective Candace only had a small part in this book, but I think the author is building up to a bigger role for her.
This is a thrill-a-second-roller-coaster-tsunami of a read. You have to read the first one to truly appreciate this one though. You will find my review for Ashes on the Earth here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Suffice it to say, I loved the book and cannot wait for the next one!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
November 10, 2020
Another fun, fast paced installment in the series which ended with a pretty big cliffhanger, so be warned if that's not your thing!
This kind of flips roles between Carter and Ellie for the book, which was fun to read. We get more time in Carter's head, and work in a new character as well. New developments on the romance front! I admit, some of Carter's teasing in the beginning kind of seemed out of the blue, but kudos to Ellie for rolling with it and not having punched him by now. lol! I wanted a bit more on the stones plotline, but this book was more character development than anything it seemed, and so I'm looking forward to see what comes next in book 3 and how this ending is going to be resolved!
Recommended for anyone who like fast paced urban fantasy, shapeshifters, and slow burn romance.
This kind of flips roles between Carter and Ellie for the book, which was fun to read. We get more time in Carter's head, and work in a new character as well. New developments on the romance front! I admit, some of Carter's teasing in the beginning kind of seemed out of the blue, but kudos to Ellie for rolling with it and not having punched him by now. lol! I wanted a bit more on the stones plotline, but this book was more character development than anything it seemed, and so I'm looking forward to see what comes next in book 3 and how this ending is going to be resolved!
Recommended for anyone who like fast paced urban fantasy, shapeshifters, and slow burn romance.
April 22, 2022
Ellie isn’t as naive and weak in this one but neither has she been completely changed into a bad arse.
These two are complete opposite’s. I still don’t buy into their romance but I guess it is progressing.
I do really like the world building aspect of this series. So many shifter species that I don’t normally find in books which I love. I’d love to hear more about their abilities though.
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review
3 star listen
This ends in a cliffhanger.
These two are complete opposite’s. I still don’t buy into their romance but I guess it is progressing.
I do really like the world building aspect of this series. So many shifter species that I don’t normally find in books which I love. I’d love to hear more about their abilities though.
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review
3 star listen
This ends in a cliffhanger.
November 9, 2020
Ellie and Carter meet up in the beginning of the book a few months after book 1 and things start out well but of course danger, chaos, and misunderstandings start up again as things heat up. I loved watching Ellie become a better person and handle the supernatural world. I laughed and groaned but was entertained throughout the story. I liked the different take and mix of supernatural and greek mythology that made up this crazy world. A fu story that ends in a cliffhanger that makes me need the next book.
January 16, 2024
Much better paced than the first one! Honestly the slow burn is really burning but it’s starting to get juicy and am excited for book 3!
November 6, 2020
I enjoyed this, but not quite as much as the first. Again I love the mythology elements within the story and Carter and Ellie. I can’t wait to find out what happens next and just glad I don’t have too long to wait for the next book.
February 13, 2022
- 4.5 rating / audiobook review -
Book two of a four book series... I am in love with these two characters – Ellie, and especially Carter.
Similar to my thoughts on book one, the only parts that were a little frustrating are the times Ellie sums up what she had just said or done. And like book one, it did not impact my enjoyment of the story.
Even if you're not a die-hard fantasy reader, if you like romance and suspense, this is a book you're sure to love.
I'm hooked. Book three... here I come.
Book two of a four book series... I am in love with these two characters – Ellie, and especially Carter.
Similar to my thoughts on book one, the only parts that were a little frustrating are the times Ellie sums up what she had just said or done. And like book one, it did not impact my enjoyment of the story.
Even if you're not a die-hard fantasy reader, if you like romance and suspense, this is a book you're sure to love.
I'm hooked. Book three... here I come.
July 27, 2023
A wonderful sequel to the previous story! It did start off a little slowish for me, but it picked up quickly and I had trouble putting the story down. Ellie had been living in hiding with her family and Carter tracks her down for a divorce or annulment, whichever she'd prefer. I liked how Carter met Ellie's dad, that was pretty funny! It was fun to see Ellie doing some of her own saving where she protects Carter. I liked the switching of duties! Carter and Ellie still have their ups and downs and I liked the growing of their relationship.
The story is pretty clean in terms of adult content. There's no steam, the relationship is platonic with some innuendo. There's some swearing, and some violence (not explicit, but on page).
I knew this story ended on a cliffhanger and I was still surprised by it because I got sooo into the storyline! That twist!! If cliffhangers aren't your jam, have no fear because the next book is already out!!
This is the second book in the series and the first must be read/listened to prior to this book. You will be completely lost without it.
I really liked the narrator! She did a wonderful job with each of the characters, especially for their own POV chapters. I'm glad the same narrator was used for this book, I like when the same narrator can be used for a series! I listened at 1.15x speed.
The story is pretty clean in terms of adult content. There's no steam, the relationship is platonic with some innuendo. There's some swearing, and some violence (not explicit, but on page).
I knew this story ended on a cliffhanger and I was still surprised by it because I got sooo into the storyline! That twist!! If cliffhangers aren't your jam, have no fear because the next book is already out!!
This is the second book in the series and the first must be read/listened to prior to this book. You will be completely lost without it.
I really liked the narrator! She did a wonderful job with each of the characters, especially for their own POV chapters. I'm glad the same narrator was used for this book, I like when the same narrator can be used for a series! I listened at 1.15x speed.
July 23, 2022
Oh Ashwood, what have you done? I'm slowly becoming a sucker for these characters haha. Can't wait for the next book! I really enjoyed book one, but after finishing book two I know I'm locked in for the ride. Ellie and Carter are so great and the unique world-building of this series is part of what keeps me excitedly flipping the pages of this fast paced story!
February 28, 2022
The only thing and I mean only thing preventing me from giving this book a do not read rating is how much I enjoyed the first book. It wasn’t as action-packed or exciting as the first book, which is fine. It had its moments and needed to world build some more. Where it crossed the line for me was the cliffhanger ending in the middle of an intense scene.
Cliffhanger endings don’t make me more interested in the next book, they just piss me off and make me want to abandon the series on principle. It’s just a disgustingly lazy tactic to lure people into continuing with the series. It tells me as a reader that the author has no faith that their work will stand on its own and readers will be interested in knowing what happens next; so they have to lure you in with bullshit. If the author doesn’t believe in their work, then why should I?
As with the first story, the narrator continues to do a decent job of narrating. But she also continually mispronounces basic words, something I find insufferably annoying. “Perscription”, “acrosst” and, “farmiliar” aren’t words. If you’re going to narrate audiobooks, then first learn how to speak the language you’ve chosen to narrate in properly.
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
Cliffhanger endings don’t make me more interested in the next book, they just piss me off and make me want to abandon the series on principle. It’s just a disgustingly lazy tactic to lure people into continuing with the series. It tells me as a reader that the author has no faith that their work will stand on its own and readers will be interested in knowing what happens next; so they have to lure you in with bullshit. If the author doesn’t believe in their work, then why should I?
As with the first story, the narrator continues to do a decent job of narrating. But she also continually mispronounces basic words, something I find insufferably annoying. “Perscription”, “acrosst” and, “farmiliar” aren’t words. If you’re going to narrate audiobooks, then first learn how to speak the language you’ve chosen to narrate in properly.
NOTE: This copy was provided to me free of charge as a digital review copy. The opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone, I was not paid or requested to give this book a certain rating, suggestion, or approval.
September 19, 2025
I dove straight into Down into the Pit after finishing book one, and wow, this sequel does not disappoint! I listened to the audiobook, and once again Melissa Kay Benson was fantastic. Her narration really brings Ellie, Carter, and the whole world of shifters and mob intrigue to life.
The story picks up with Ellie trying to start fresh under a new identity, but of course, danger has other plans. Carter’s return pulls her right back into the chaos, and the stakes are even higher this time, not just for Ellie, but for Carter too. What I loved most is how much Ellie has grown. She’s tough, determined, and refuses to fall apart, even when everything around her feels impossible.
The mix of mythology, mafia vibes, and slow-burn romance makes this series so unique. And the twist involving the Stones of Fire had me holding my breath. By the end, I was already itching for the next book.
If you enjoyed the first one, this follow-up is a must. It’s darker, more dangerous, and absolutely addicting. Can't wait for book 3!
The story picks up with Ellie trying to start fresh under a new identity, but of course, danger has other plans. Carter’s return pulls her right back into the chaos, and the stakes are even higher this time, not just for Ellie, but for Carter too. What I loved most is how much Ellie has grown. She’s tough, determined, and refuses to fall apart, even when everything around her feels impossible.
The mix of mythology, mafia vibes, and slow-burn romance makes this series so unique. And the twist involving the Stones of Fire had me holding my breath. By the end, I was already itching for the next book.
If you enjoyed the first one, this follow-up is a must. It’s darker, more dangerous, and absolutely addicting. Can't wait for book 3!
February 21, 2024
Audio Book Review Narrator Melissa Kay Benson
Im relistening.
Grump & Sunshine Couple dynamics
Elli St James is not your typical heroine, she leads with compassion in everything she does - , I'm sure we have criticised her naivety and continued misteps after being told how how you should behave or respond. But where is the fun in that and how else could we irk and rub Carter all the wrong ways. right.
Interesting Eli who goes through the most change of lifestyle, remains herself throughout and that makes this journey, interesting.
This is a clean Romance read , & that doesnt affect the stories journey at all. I dont read many clean romances outside the classics. But I make an exception for this author. Again very comprehensible world building, well rounded and layered characters.
one of the best cliff hangers - it is a thriller - right on the edge of your seat
Jasmin E Reads
Im relistening.
Grump & Sunshine Couple dynamics
Elli St James is not your typical heroine, she leads with compassion in everything she does - , I'm sure we have criticised her naivety and continued misteps after being told how how you should behave or respond. But where is the fun in that and how else could we irk and rub Carter all the wrong ways. right.
Interesting Eli who goes through the most change of lifestyle, remains herself throughout and that makes this journey, interesting.
This is a clean Romance read , & that doesnt affect the stories journey at all. I dont read many clean romances outside the classics. But I make an exception for this author. Again very comprehensible world building, well rounded and layered characters.
one of the best cliff hangers - it is a thriller - right on the edge of your seat
Jasmin E Reads
March 24, 2022
Down into the Pit begins with the-all-hard-edges Carter trying to make things right with Ellie, even if it means giving her a divorce and allowing her to walk away from their fake marriage. It's nice to see his edges softening. Ellie is confused about her feelings for Carter and her desire to do the right thing. But when she makes a decision to do what she feels is right, her caring nature puts her in the path of danger. And Carter's need to make jokes all the time does more damage than anyone could have imagined. Who is the mole leaking information? I want to scream at Carter to figure it out. Will he figure it out in time before one of them is killed? Stones of Fire is the kind of series that once you start reading you won't want to stop, especially with those cliffhanger endings! And, right now the complete box set is on a pre-order deal for only $0.99!
April 23, 2022
Better Have Book 3 Ready to Go- Still Clean
Parents- PG13 - high school and up readers
Language- mild
Violence- PG13- some battle gore and shifter fight scenes
Sexual Content- mild discussions but no details and no sex scenes
Ok, so these books are not stand-alone and do need to be read in order, AND when you go to read book two you'd better have book three read to go because this book ends on the mother of all cliff hangers!!! I'm really enjoying this series it has a great mix of slow burn romance, action and mystery. Already on book three so I will keep this short and get back to it.
Narrator- Does a great job with overall narration and differentiation between characters. I preferred listening to this one at 1.35x speed.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Parents- PG13 - high school and up readers
Language- mild
Violence- PG13- some battle gore and shifter fight scenes
Sexual Content- mild discussions but no details and no sex scenes
Ok, so these books are not stand-alone and do need to be read in order, AND when you go to read book two you'd better have book three read to go because this book ends on the mother of all cliff hangers!!! I'm really enjoying this series it has a great mix of slow burn romance, action and mystery. Already on book three so I will keep this short and get back to it.
Narrator- Does a great job with overall narration and differentiation between characters. I preferred listening to this one at 1.35x speed.
—I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 11, 2022
I enjoyed book 2 of the "Stones Of Fire' series more than book 1. The female protagonist was more mature and less clingy than in the first book. There was more humor in this book than in the first one. I thought there was more buildup as the situation seems to be getting more tense between the shapeshifters. This story does end on a cliffhanger. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I recommend this book to others who enjoy this genre. Melissa Kay Benson's narration was good although some of her voices for the different characters are beginning to sound the same. I was given a free copy of the audiobook and I have voluntarily posted this review.
July 20, 2024
I love how the author blends mythology in “real world” narrative. The main characters are strong in their beliefs and character, making for sparks at times and yet a real connection continues to grow between them. I can’t emphasize enough how much I love that the author doesn’t just throw the characters together and expect us to accept their relationship.
Ellie is a strong and sweet FMC, with some real sass. Carter is your typical strong and snarky male, but shows a great depth of feelings.
The story is fast paced, great dialogue, and wow… you can’t beat that ending.
Highly recommended!
Ellie is a strong and sweet FMC, with some real sass. Carter is your typical strong and snarky male, but shows a great depth of feelings.
The story is fast paced, great dialogue, and wow… you can’t beat that ending.
Highly recommended!
November 9, 2025
I liked this book about a shifter war, because it had an interesting plot. Ellie thought she could get away from Carter and the shifters ,but things don’t always go as planned. I enjoyed seeing Ellie fight back. This book definitely keeps you reading, and sets up the story for more to come. I loved seeing how much Carter realized he wanted to fight for Ellie. So much to enjoy in this interesting shifter story.
The audio was well done. It definitely helped me connect with the world and characters. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The audio was well done. It definitely helped me connect with the world and characters. I received a copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 23, 2021
Very interesting
Ellie married. She never thought that would happen. But it was only for her protection. Her family was relocated North to start new lives. Carter continued to be the charming person he was, and nothing will ever be the same. Ellie saved Carter, Carter saved Ellie. This back and forth is fascinating.
I really enjoy this story. The characters are original, the storyline interesting and I must finish the series. Read on my friends. You will not be disappointed.
Ellie married. She never thought that would happen. But it was only for her protection. Her family was relocated North to start new lives. Carter continued to be the charming person he was, and nothing will ever be the same. Ellie saved Carter, Carter saved Ellie. This back and forth is fascinating.
I really enjoy this story. The characters are original, the storyline interesting and I must finish the series. Read on my friends. You will not be disappointed.
June 1, 2022
Moved straight on to book 2 after finishing the first.
This story is very good. The plot is just so well suited to the combination of myths/legends used to inspire this world.
Also the notion of no fated or insta-love trope, given it’s a story about shifters, is really refreshing.
These have no ‘steam’ but honestly, they don’t need it and it means I can recommend them to my teen which is a plus!
All in all, a unique and intriguing read.
This story is very good. The plot is just so well suited to the combination of myths/legends used to inspire this world.
Also the notion of no fated or insta-love trope, given it’s a story about shifters, is really refreshing.
These have no ‘steam’ but honestly, they don’t need it and it means I can recommend them to my teen which is a plus!
All in all, a unique and intriguing read.
December 7, 2022
this had more of the sarcasm Carter is known for and we get to see more of Ellie's strong side. She has had time to accept the shifter world and shift her world view making her less skittish and terrified and more in her element when she's thrust back into it. She coming into herself more. And Carter is learning that Ellie has more to her than she appears and that the prejudice he thought she had he does as well. Also, the villain has truly made me hate her....un-freaking cool. wait til you read and you will understand.
April 13, 2022
I love this take on shifters and the world the author has created. I can't get enough of Ellie and Carters story, I could not put this down and am loving the second book even more than the first one!
The audio narration is well done and enjoyable. That cliffhanger ending is killing me, I can't wait for the next book!!
The audio narration is well done and enjoyable. That cliffhanger ending is killing me, I can't wait for the next book!!
October 10, 2023
Urban fantasy
Liked this book.
I like the way the books are set up and written.
The quasi-murder mystery aspect (its not, its more of an adventure but with spies n stuff) is intriguing.
The slow burn romance is very slow but cute.
Prepare for the unexpected and enjoy the ride.
Liked this book.
I like the way the books are set up and written.
The quasi-murder mystery aspect (its not, its more of an adventure but with spies n stuff) is intriguing.
The slow burn romance is very slow but cute.
Prepare for the unexpected and enjoy the ride.
March 12, 2024
Elle is brought deeper into the shifter conflicts. Carter cannot stay away from her and they both start to suspect they have feeling developing. The plot keeps moving along. Will they be able to stop a war? Book 3 will keep me up tonight.
September 18, 2025
We dive further into this quest for power as Ellie and Carter do a lot of quasi relationship things. With much disagreement, they seem more at odds with each other than ever. But with protected info finding it’s way to the other faction, the hunt for the leak is on. Loved how many thing led to this cliffhanger ending. Jumping into book 3 ASAP!
February 23, 2021
Another fast-paced story
Keeps you turning pages. Action, romance, and myth all wrapped up in one spell-binding story. A must read for urban fantasy lovers.
Keeps you turning pages. Action, romance, and myth all wrapped up in one spell-binding story. A must read for urban fantasy lovers.
May 25, 2021
Cliffhanger
Arrrr! I hate cliffhangers! This book moved faster than the first... and I skimmed some of the paragraphs. In frustration, I look to book 3.
Arrrr! I hate cliffhangers! This book moved faster than the first... and I skimmed some of the paragraphs. In frustration, I look to book 3.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews