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The Riven Kingdoms #3
Dawn of Darkness
Princess Amalia of Renove expected to find plague and death when she and Rhys entered the kingdom of Draegan, but she didn’t realize she’d find herself in a nest of lies and deception.
Now the princess’s world is crumbling. She must learn to navigate a wicked court, where everyone wants something from her—including the one man she thought she could trust.
And Amalia isn’t the only one struggling. Newly betrothed Cassia finds herself torn between family, duty, and love. One wrong decision, and the Draeganish princess’s world could come to an end.
Time is running short for the two riven kingdoms. An army of darkness gathers, preparing to destroy the entire continent.
Little do any of the royals know there are more players behind the scenes. Whether they act for the good of the kingdoms, or their destruction, only time will tell…
Now the princess’s world is crumbling. She must learn to navigate a wicked court, where everyone wants something from her—including the one man she thought she could trust.
And Amalia isn’t the only one struggling. Newly betrothed Cassia finds herself torn between family, duty, and love. One wrong decision, and the Draeganish princess’s world could come to an end.
Time is running short for the two riven kingdoms. An army of darkness gathers, preparing to destroy the entire continent.
Little do any of the royals know there are more players behind the scenes. Whether they act for the good of the kingdoms, or their destruction, only time will tell…
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2020
439 people are currently reading
586 people want to read
About the author
Shari L. Tapscott
69 books919 followersShari L. Tapscott writes young adult fantasy and humorous contemporary fiction. When she's not writing or reading, she enjoys gardening, making soap, and pretending she can sing.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.
Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.
Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
October 28, 2020
A fun installment in the Riven Kingdoms series! I eagerly await each release and had to drop waht I was reading so I could dive in and see what is going on with Rhys, Amalia and gang.
This book picks up where the last one leaves off, diving right back into the story and everything that is going on. It's basically non-stop the rest of the way. I really love the characters in the book and the overall story. I thought it was well written, fun and I'm really looking forward to seeing how everything wraps up in the final book, Age of Auroras.
I will say, and its probably more of a personal preference, I am not a huge fan of more than two main points-of-view, and in this installment we got six. While I liked all six characters, I felt like we weren't really able to get as deep into their relationships when we're switching things up between three couples. I liked how the author handled the transitions and was able to move the story along while doing so, she did a good job of it.
It was also extra fun doing a buddy-read with my great friend Deb, it was fun discussing the book as we were reading and I'm not at all upset that she finished before me and wouldn't give me spoilers! haha
Content rated PG for mild war violence, very mild sexual content
Romance: Kissing. One married couple has closed door intimacy.
Language: None
Violence: Mild, fighting creatures and such, nothing graphic
The Riven Kingdoms Series
This book picks up where the last one leaves off, diving right back into the story and everything that is going on. It's basically non-stop the rest of the way. I really love the characters in the book and the overall story. I thought it was well written, fun and I'm really looking forward to seeing how everything wraps up in the final book, Age of Auroras.
I will say, and its probably more of a personal preference, I am not a huge fan of more than two main points-of-view, and in this installment we got six. While I liked all six characters, I felt like we weren't really able to get as deep into their relationships when we're switching things up between three couples. I liked how the author handled the transitions and was able to move the story along while doing so, she did a good job of it.
It was also extra fun doing a buddy-read with my great friend Deb, it was fun discussing the book as we were reading and I'm not at all upset that she finished before me and wouldn't give me spoilers! haha
Content rated PG for mild war violence, very mild sexual content
Romance: Kissing. One married couple has closed door intimacy.
Language: None
Violence: Mild, fighting creatures and such, nothing graphic
The Riven Kingdoms Series
October 30, 2020
AAAAHHHHH! Book three!!!! So much love and excitement for this series AND this book! But ARG! Now I have to wait for book four! I know it won't be too long (January) but it really feels like a long time. (you know, NEXT YEAR)
I am loving the progression of the story, the characters and the excitement. Tension is building, relationships are building and it's headed to a very climactic conclusion. This book is filled with adventure and battles against the dark monsters. There is magical love and I just adore how the light and healing comes to the land and the people through love.
I read through this book so quickly. I couldn't help myself. Now I am left waiting, once again, for the next book. It's so hard to wait but so worth it because I love this book, this series and this author.
Content: peril, violence, death, kissing
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. (as is the whole series!!)
I am loving the progression of the story, the characters and the excitement. Tension is building, relationships are building and it's headed to a very climactic conclusion. This book is filled with adventure and battles against the dark monsters. There is magical love and I just adore how the light and healing comes to the land and the people through love.
I read through this book so quickly. I couldn't help myself. Now I am left waiting, once again, for the next book. It's so hard to wait but so worth it because I love this book, this series and this author.
Content: peril, violence, death, kissing
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited. (as is the whole series!!)
November 25, 2020
As much of a page turner as the other books in the series! I'm in awe of Tapscott's talent for weaving together multiple romances, POVs, and plots. This book was full of surprises, and some delightful scenes that had me a little swoony.
July 30, 2022
Still loving this captivating series! Each book is as good as the last. I enjoyed all of the plot twists and POV in this one and the romance was just sigh-worthy. This is definitely a series you do not want to miss!
January 23, 2021
Welp- finished that way too quickly for my liking- 😆 can’t wait for book 4! I love this world, adventures and the characters!
March 11, 2021
Tapscott does something great in this series and that is that she adds lots of different voices. The first book was the two main characters and then she adds characters. So you're inside more people's heads which makes it more interesting. If she hadn't done this I would not finish reading these. Lots of things reoccur. The darkness that they face is inconsistent. The story is fun. the romance is a big part of it. And there's lots of people falling in love so that's awesome. These are great young adult books. Now on to the 4th:)
May 11, 2021
This picks up right after the last one. The story is progressing nicely! I’m definitely more invested in Rhys & Amalia compared to the rest of the gang so it does feel a bit slower when we aren’t reading from their POV. It seems the series has shifted at this point & the next book with be mostly about Braeton & Cassia, and Aeron & Seraphina 👀 There is a new character coming in that is definitely going to shake things up! Overall I think the story is good and is a quick reads.
August 9, 2023
Side characters for the win
I’ve already gushed about how awesome this series is. Each book ramps up the stress as the couples attempt to save the world. What I haven’t touched on is the amazing side characters. They add so much to the dynamic of the story. Plus, they have great lines like, “One person’s stupid is another person’s spectacular.” 🥰🥰
I’ve already gushed about how awesome this series is. Each book ramps up the stress as the couples attempt to save the world. What I haven’t touched on is the amazing side characters. They add so much to the dynamic of the story. Plus, they have great lines like, “One person’s stupid is another person’s spectacular.” 🥰🥰
November 17, 2020
How does this series keep getting better and better? Cassia and Braeton are such sweethearts together, and it was great to see them deepening their relationship. Rhys and Amalia have their issues to work through, but they work together in the end. The ending of this book is especially nailbiting!
Aeron and Seraphina were an unexpected treat, and their tortured souls really started to take the spot of cinnamon roll couple away from Cassia and Braeton.
So much to love about this series! If you love clean romantic fantasy with arranged marriages and kingdoms on the brink of destruction, then this series is for you!
Aeron and Seraphina were an unexpected treat, and their tortured souls really started to take the spot of cinnamon roll couple away from Cassia and Braeton.
So much to love about this series! If you love clean romantic fantasy with arranged marriages and kingdoms on the brink of destruction, then this series is for you!
May 2, 2024
Absolutely gripping.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There is a steamy kissing scene between a married couple, but it fades out before going any further. There are some fight scenes and corresponding violence, but it’s not too excessive. There are no references to faith or God.
Content:
There’s no foul language or sex. There is a steamy kissing scene between a married couple, but it fades out before going any further. There are some fight scenes and corresponding violence, but it’s not too excessive. There are no references to faith or God.
October 23, 2020
The 3rd thrilling book in the Riven Kingdoms series, Dawn of Darkness was just a binge-worthy and enthralling as the others. Like the 2nd installment, I have been eagerly awaiting this book and was in no way disappointed! I was so excited to revisit Rhys, Amalia, Cassia, and Braedon. And as with the last book, there are even more characters to grab your heart and pull you in.
Amalia and Rhys have finally arrived at the court of Draegan, where lies and secrets hide. Amalia struggles in the midst of uncertainty over who to trust, especially when considering the only one she trusted lied to her. Cassia is also reeling from her recently discovered betrothal, stuck between her family, her kingdom, and her feelings. The two kingdoms and their respective royalty must prepare as darkness gathers to destroy them both. However, more is going on behind the scenes then any of them realize and only time will show whether who is friend and who is foe.
This was so good! I have loved this series and this was such a good addition! Rhys and Amalia were finally in Draegon and secrets were finally being revealed! I was so glad that he was finally talking to her and some questions were answered. I knew that once some things were shared, they would be able to move forward in a more connected way. It was so cute to see Cassia and Braedon again. Of course, her betrothal added some new dimensions, but I was relieved that there was relatively little drama. They were all pretty focused on the imminent threats to have a lot of problems, though there was some tension. I felt bad for Aeron, he had been through so much! It was cool to see his perspective and hear some of his story. He and Seraphina were the new characters of the story. They brought new perspective and information to the story, as well as a secondary plot!
All the new revelations kept me reading this book later into the night than I should have! So much happened and they are so much closer to restoration. And yet at the same time, they still have a ways to go. Once again, we are left at a cliff-hanger. This book ends with yet another surprise, one that might have made me shriek a little. No spoilers, but I had a strong reaction to it and will once again be impatiently waiting for the next book!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Amalia and Rhys have finally arrived at the court of Draegan, where lies and secrets hide. Amalia struggles in the midst of uncertainty over who to trust, especially when considering the only one she trusted lied to her. Cassia is also reeling from her recently discovered betrothal, stuck between her family, her kingdom, and her feelings. The two kingdoms and their respective royalty must prepare as darkness gathers to destroy them both. However, more is going on behind the scenes then any of them realize and only time will show whether who is friend and who is foe.
This was so good! I have loved this series and this was such a good addition! Rhys and Amalia were finally in Draegon and secrets were finally being revealed! I was so glad that he was finally talking to her and some questions were answered. I knew that once some things were shared, they would be able to move forward in a more connected way. It was so cute to see Cassia and Braedon again. Of course, her betrothal added some new dimensions, but I was relieved that there was relatively little drama. They were all pretty focused on the imminent threats to have a lot of problems, though there was some tension. I felt bad for Aeron, he had been through so much! It was cool to see his perspective and hear some of his story. He and Seraphina were the new characters of the story. They brought new perspective and information to the story, as well as a secondary plot!
All the new revelations kept me reading this book later into the night than I should have! So much happened and they are so much closer to restoration. And yet at the same time, they still have a ways to go. Once again, we are left at a cliff-hanger. This book ends with yet another surprise, one that might have made me shriek a little. No spoilers, but I had a strong reaction to it and will once again be impatiently waiting for the next book!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
March 15, 2021
I binge-read this series so I don't really have a review for each book. The plan was to pause between each book and write a review, but I just kept picking up the next book and reading it instead! Obviously, I loved this series! I was in the mood for a fantasy series, and this one was perfect for my mood! And I loved that all 4 books in this series have already been written so I was able to binge-read the series!
These books had lots of great characters, but I loved Rhys and Amalia the most! There's a chasm dividing their worlds, and it seems like their worlds are as different as night and day... but they are really more alike than they ever realized. And if they want to cure the curse on their land, they are going to have to figure things out.
(My only complaint about this series is that I would have loved a meatier Epilogue. I love a great Epilogue; I know that not everyone feels that same way, but I would have liked to know what happened with some of the characters - maybe there will be a Riven, Part 2 in the future? One can hope...)
These books had lots of great characters, but I loved Rhys and Amalia the most! There's a chasm dividing their worlds, and it seems like their worlds are as different as night and day... but they are really more alike than they ever realized. And if they want to cure the curse on their land, they are going to have to figure things out.
(My only complaint about this series is that I would have loved a meatier Epilogue. I love a great Epilogue; I know that not everyone feels that same way, but I would have liked to know what happened with some of the characters - maybe there will be a Riven, Part 2 in the future? One can hope...)
October 23, 2020
I just love this series and all the characters so much!
In this third book, we continue with Rhys and Amalia’s story, Braeton and Cassia’s story, and we get two new points of view from Aeron and Seraphina (the fairy).
A lot happens and I don’t want to give anything away, however, I will say that there is a bit more closure at the end but enough of a tease that you can’t wait to read the 4th and final book.
If you haven’t started this series yet, definitely go get caught up! It’s in a fantasy world with dueling kingdoms, magic, monsters, fairies, chemistry, romance, adventure, humor, and some great characters you will miss the minute the books are finished.
In this third book, we continue with Rhys and Amalia’s story, Braeton and Cassia’s story, and we get two new points of view from Aeron and Seraphina (the fairy).
A lot happens and I don’t want to give anything away, however, I will say that there is a bit more closure at the end but enough of a tease that you can’t wait to read the 4th and final book.
If you haven’t started this series yet, definitely go get caught up! It’s in a fantasy world with dueling kingdoms, magic, monsters, fairies, chemistry, romance, adventure, humor, and some great characters you will miss the minute the books are finished.
March 15, 2021
I'm still very much enjoying this series but this book took me a little longer to get through. I'm not sure why. I liked the additional POVs and I liked the character development for some of the secondary characters. Unfortunately, as soon as I saw the last chapter POV, I figured out a major plot point for the final book that I'm not really a fan of. I guess we'll see how it turns out. There's also more action and battles in Dawn of Darkness than the previous two books. Anyway, here's to a 'finally going back to Renove' adventure.
Perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, Falling Kingdoms, and specifically Nina and Matthias. 🖤
Perfect for fans of Throne of Glass, Falling Kingdoms, and specifically Nina and Matthias. 🖤
January 26, 2021
Better and better!
I have loved this series by the talented Ms Tapscott and somehow, she makes each story better and better.
There is magic, curses, love, action, war, and so much more. I love how she had interwoven these characters and I love reading from each of their perspectives. There are multiple love stories, and each presents it’s own unique yet swoony romance.
I’m dying to get my hands on the next book, but will have to wait... somehow!!
I have loved this series by the talented Ms Tapscott and somehow, she makes each story better and better.
There is magic, curses, love, action, war, and so much more. I love how she had interwoven these characters and I love reading from each of their perspectives. There are multiple love stories, and each presents it’s own unique yet swoony romance.
I’m dying to get my hands on the next book, but will have to wait... somehow!!
December 23, 2020
I do not know where to truly begin. I enjoyed the very beginning of this novel, but it just slowly lost my interest. The addition of Seraphina's POV felt at times bothersome over helpful, and just the entire focus on proving the faeries' point being the main plot point felt a bit weak when compared to their previous trials. Nonetheless, I still have high hopes for the last novel to be as good as the first two.
October 19, 2021
4.5 stars
“Does Rhys know what you have planned?”
“No.”
“Do you think he’d approve of it?”
“Not likely.”
Amalia gives me a grim smile. “Then, I’ll do it.”
I just love Rhys and Amalia ♡
“Does Rhys know what you have planned?”
“No.”
“Do you think he’d approve of it?”
“Not likely.”
Amalia gives me a grim smile. “Then, I’ll do it.”
I just love Rhys and Amalia ♡
April 16, 2021
At last, it has picked up! Full review to come.
July 2, 2025
Too many POVs. It's no longer just Amalia and Rhys. I understand the addition of Braeton and Cassia. But the rest is taking away from the main characters.
February 7, 2021
I really enjoyed the fantasy elements and the plot line. It was definitely a page turner and kept me engaged throughout.
Some thoughts -
- This book had more action and battles than the previous two.
- At the end of Book #2 I really wanted Amalia to make Rhys work for forgiveness, and I was not disappointed. I'm a sucker for a man who literally falls to his knees. It's such a humble, sincere position for a warrior like Rhys - how can that not melt her resolve? I think that entire situation was perfectly handled in this book (not resolved too quickly nor drawn out too long). I was completely satisfied. Well done, Ms Tapscott!
- I was thrilled when a new romance began to develop. I love it when authors introduce a new romance in each installment of a series. (This one wasn't swoony, though, which was a bummer. It will continue to develop in the next book and maybe even ANOTHER romance will happen! Yay! :) Overall, this book wasn't as swoony as the past two books, but I did like the section where there was some competition over Cassie. I know, I'm a sucker for that trope; it definitely increases the chemistry. It was just a fleeting thing, though. Rhys and Amalia have the most chemistry. Cassie's romance is average, and Seraphina's has low chemistry at this point.
- Rhys promises to be honest with Amalia from now on while simultaneously lying to his father about where Cassie was. It was a bit of a double standard that I regretted. Especially since I really liked his father and felt like he deserved more respect from his sons. I wasn't entirely sure that they had truly exhausted the attempt to reason with him candidly, but maybe they just knew he would prevent Cassie from going...
- I really liked how Rhys seeks out Braeton to apologize to him and talks to him about how he loves Amalia. That's classy.
- The fade-to-black scene between Rhys and Amalia was well written (it could have been more detailed while still being super clean, but I was mostly satisfied). I'm glad the author included it. If it had been skipped, that would have been glaring omission, and if it had been pushed back, that would have felt contrived.
- In Book 2, Braeton is made out to be complete dead weight as a warrior, which was a little cringey. I mean, this guy is a prince in medieval times. He simply HAS to have warrior training even if he prefers scholarly pursuits. I was therefore relieved in this book when he teased Cassie about thinking he couldn't wield a sword and assured her that he WAS a prince after all and had that training. I wanted him to have an opportunity to prove it and make me pleasantly surprised. You know, making me think, "Oh, he's capable of holding his own. I'm glad he's not an oaf after all." That didn't really pan out the way I hoped, but he kinda had a couple times where he did okay.
- Braeton read too much. Every single time Cassie comes to him when he's alone, he is reading. Even in the MIDDLE OF A BATTLE when he is guarding Seraphina's door, he is reading. Really? When Cassie visits him in his room (where he is being kept as a prisoner for days and days on end) I just wanted once for him to be doing pushups or something. haha!
- When Cassie and Braeton kiss after the battle they feel magical sparks around them but then we don't ever hear what magic occurred. It's the first time they really KISSED, so it should have been a big magical display, but we never hear about it. ?
- Aeron is hard to connect with. I'm hopeful that his character will be more engaging in the next book and his romance will have some chemistry.
- I love Edwin! I want him to have happiness. I hope the fourth romance is for him in the next book.
Content:
Language - no swearing
Sex - some mild kissing and one fade-to-black scene between a married couple that was completely sweet.
Violence - some battles with monsters
Cover - I like it.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
How I rated the Riven Kingdoms Series:
1. Forest of Firelight - 5 stars
2. Sea of Starlight - 5 stars
3. Dawn of Darkness - 4 stars
4. Age of Auroras - 3 stars
Some thoughts -
- This book had more action and battles than the previous two.
- At the end of Book #2 I really wanted Amalia to make Rhys work for forgiveness, and I was not disappointed. I'm a sucker for a man who literally falls to his knees. It's such a humble, sincere position for a warrior like Rhys - how can that not melt her resolve? I think that entire situation was perfectly handled in this book (not resolved too quickly nor drawn out too long). I was completely satisfied. Well done, Ms Tapscott!
- I was thrilled when a new romance began to develop. I love it when authors introduce a new romance in each installment of a series. (This one wasn't swoony, though, which was a bummer. It will continue to develop in the next book and maybe even ANOTHER romance will happen! Yay! :) Overall, this book wasn't as swoony as the past two books, but I did like the section where there was some competition over Cassie. I know, I'm a sucker for that trope; it definitely increases the chemistry. It was just a fleeting thing, though. Rhys and Amalia have the most chemistry. Cassie's romance is average, and Seraphina's has low chemistry at this point.
- Rhys promises to be honest with Amalia from now on while simultaneously lying to his father about where Cassie was. It was a bit of a double standard that I regretted. Especially since I really liked his father and felt like he deserved more respect from his sons. I wasn't entirely sure that they had truly exhausted the attempt to reason with him candidly, but maybe they just knew he would prevent Cassie from going...
- I really liked how Rhys seeks out Braeton to apologize to him and talks to him about how he loves Amalia. That's classy.
- The fade-to-black scene between Rhys and Amalia was well written (it could have been more detailed while still being super clean, but I was mostly satisfied). I'm glad the author included it. If it had been skipped, that would have been glaring omission, and if it had been pushed back, that would have felt contrived.
- In Book 2, Braeton is made out to be complete dead weight as a warrior, which was a little cringey. I mean, this guy is a prince in medieval times. He simply HAS to have warrior training even if he prefers scholarly pursuits. I was therefore relieved in this book when he teased Cassie about thinking he couldn't wield a sword and assured her that he WAS a prince after all and had that training. I wanted him to have an opportunity to prove it and make me pleasantly surprised. You know, making me think, "Oh, he's capable of holding his own. I'm glad he's not an oaf after all." That didn't really pan out the way I hoped, but he kinda had a couple times where he did okay.
- Braeton read too much. Every single time Cassie comes to him when he's alone, he is reading. Even in the MIDDLE OF A BATTLE when he is guarding Seraphina's door, he is reading. Really? When Cassie visits him in his room (where he is being kept as a prisoner for days and days on end) I just wanted once for him to be doing pushups or something. haha!
- When Cassie and Braeton kiss after the battle they feel magical sparks around them but then we don't ever hear what magic occurred. It's the first time they really KISSED, so it should have been a big magical display, but we never hear about it. ?
- Aeron is hard to connect with. I'm hopeful that his character will be more engaging in the next book and his romance will have some chemistry.
- I love Edwin! I want him to have happiness. I hope the fourth romance is for him in the next book.
Content:
Language - no swearing
Sex - some mild kissing and one fade-to-black scene between a married couple that was completely sweet.
Violence - some battles with monsters
Cover - I like it.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
How I rated the Riven Kingdoms Series:
1. Forest of Firelight - 5 stars
2. Sea of Starlight - 5 stars
3. Dawn of Darkness - 4 stars
4. Age of Auroras - 3 stars
January 20, 2022
I was really excited for this book to come out ever since I read the first two. I was absolutely disappointed with it.
Nothing of note happened, and what bothered me most of all was the fact that almost over half of the chapters were from side characters' point of view which I had absolutely not interest in.
The reason I loved the first two books was because they were about the main characters and what happened was actually interesting but I skipped through so many chapters because they were so mundane. It was such a change to go from the story being about 2 main characters to then 6.
I really disliked this book.
Nothing of note happened, and what bothered me most of all was the fact that almost over half of the chapters were from side characters' point of view which I had absolutely not interest in.
The reason I loved the first two books was because they were about the main characters and what happened was actually interesting but I skipped through so many chapters because they were so mundane. It was such a change to go from the story being about 2 main characters to then 6.
I really disliked this book.
July 22, 2023
I really loved reading this wonderful book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this really wonderful book down! I will be reading the next book in this really wonderful series!
July 9, 2024
I am literally in love with this series. In fact, if I could give it more stars, I definitely would.
In this book, all the characters learned what was required to break the curse on Renove and Draegan. Rhys is already married to Amalia, Braeton and Cassia need to get married and then, Rhys and Amalia will become the monarchs of Draegan, Braeton and Cassia will sit on their thrones in Renove, and the curse will be broken and the Chasm will be no more.
But just because they know what they are supposed to do, it doesn't mean that everyone accepts it. Rhys' father doesn't believe that is the way to break the curse. He doesn't want to give his daughter to a Renovian prince, and he also want to leave his throne to his eldest son Edwin, even though it is Rhys who is the true heir.
SPOILERS AHEAD
We get to learn that Rhys' mother was in love with someone else. It was a man named Edwin, and he was the king (crown prince back then) Egan's best friend. He helped the couple in love to flee and they get married in secret. But, Edwin saves Egan's life in a battle, and dies, asking Egan to take care of his wife and unborn child as his last wish.
The entire book was about Cassia and Braeton triying to cross the Chasm back to Renove, so that they can marry and become the new king and queen. But there were lots of Chasm monsters stopping them, which made the book quite rich in action.
Also, there were two more POV additions to the story; the knight who is technically Cassia's betrothed, Aeron, and the fairy who saved Rhys' life in the first book, Seraphina. We already knew that Seraphina was the last fairy, but we got learn that she had a friend named Maelor. When Seraphina was dumped by Rhys' great-grandfather, he got so mad at humans that he manipulated the two kingdoms to fight and he manipulated other faries to creat the Chasm. One of the most interesitng details was that Aeron had fairy magic because he was quarter fairy on his mother's side. He even had magic but he could only activate it when he was with Seraphina. Something romantic will bloom between the two, I can tell.
The book ended with a massive attack that resulted in the death of King Egan. Rhys and Amalia were crowned king and queen of Draegan, which magically defeated all the monsters. Now, they need to make sure Cassia and Braeton arrive safely in Renove and crowned there, but the last chapter... It shows that a nasty surprise is waiting for them in Renove. Fairy Maelor is working with Keir now, Braeton and Amalia's younger brother. He is manipulating Keir now to stop Braeton and Cassia's wedding, telling he should talk to his father not to allow the marriage and if that doesn't work, he should kill the king, his father and claim the throne for himself.
The final book will be sooo good! I am already sure of it.
In this book, all the characters learned what was required to break the curse on Renove and Draegan. Rhys is already married to Amalia, Braeton and Cassia need to get married and then, Rhys and Amalia will become the monarchs of Draegan, Braeton and Cassia will sit on their thrones in Renove, and the curse will be broken and the Chasm will be no more.
But just because they know what they are supposed to do, it doesn't mean that everyone accepts it. Rhys' father doesn't believe that is the way to break the curse. He doesn't want to give his daughter to a Renovian prince, and he also want to leave his throne to his eldest son Edwin, even though it is Rhys who is the true heir.
SPOILERS AHEAD
We get to learn that Rhys' mother was in love with someone else. It was a man named Edwin, and he was the king (crown prince back then) Egan's best friend. He helped the couple in love to flee and they get married in secret. But, Edwin saves Egan's life in a battle, and dies, asking Egan to take care of his wife and unborn child as his last wish.
The entire book was about Cassia and Braeton triying to cross the Chasm back to Renove, so that they can marry and become the new king and queen. But there were lots of Chasm monsters stopping them, which made the book quite rich in action.
Also, there were two more POV additions to the story; the knight who is technically Cassia's betrothed, Aeron, and the fairy who saved Rhys' life in the first book, Seraphina. We already knew that Seraphina was the last fairy, but we got learn that she had a friend named Maelor. When Seraphina was dumped by Rhys' great-grandfather, he got so mad at humans that he manipulated the two kingdoms to fight and he manipulated other faries to creat the Chasm. One of the most interesitng details was that Aeron had fairy magic because he was quarter fairy on his mother's side. He even had magic but he could only activate it when he was with Seraphina. Something romantic will bloom between the two, I can tell.
The book ended with a massive attack that resulted in the death of King Egan. Rhys and Amalia were crowned king and queen of Draegan, which magically defeated all the monsters. Now, they need to make sure Cassia and Braeton arrive safely in Renove and crowned there, but the last chapter... It shows that a nasty surprise is waiting for them in Renove. Fairy Maelor is working with Keir now, Braeton and Amalia's younger brother. He is manipulating Keir now to stop Braeton and Cassia's wedding, telling he should talk to his father not to allow the marriage and if that doesn't work, he should kill the king, his father and claim the throne for himself.
The final book will be sooo good! I am already sure of it.
October 24, 2020
⚔️⚔️⚔️ (Three stars as rated in pairs of clashing swords!)
How much fun it is to receive a book you’d forgotten you pre-ordered! Woot! I was really not expecting to read this book last night but OF COURSE I had to stay up to finish the whole thing when I got it! Worth it every time.
I am SO happy to be back in the Riven Kingdoms, BUT, I’m going to be real here because I am a tad salty that there are still more books left to be released in this series. I had been really gearing up for a rousing conclusion to the tale, and now I have to wait some MORE to see how everything ends? Rude! 😂 Full disclosure, this may very well be to blame for the three star rating. Aaaand I will probably be letting this book marinate in my mind for a bit longer before revisiting my review.
Having just finished the thing a few hours ago, though, here are my initial thoughts:
Also, I’m probably going to almost entirely re-read this whole book in the next week or so do what you will with that information. I still completely love this series and, truth be told, am somewhat happy to have a bit more time with it.
October 24, 2020
I was a little worried after the second one, but I really enjoyed this third installment. The chasm and its creatures feel more insidious, the stakes more high. The story overall had a better flow than the second one. It just worked better. Honestly, I was concerned when I saw that there were two ADDITIONAL narrators added to the story. The second book in the series felt like it was too divided, and now it seemed like it would be even more so. Oddly enough, that’s not the case here. I actually really loved the addition of Aeron and Seraphina, and their chemistry is well worth their inclusion. I loved the direction that went, and look forward to more.
I also like that Amalia found her spine. She’s always been sweet, but now she’s tough. I much prefer that to the constant damsel in distress. She doesn’t let Rhys off immediately, and that’s important too. Tapscott does a good job of making the struggle to forgive him feel real without being petty. Again, why Rhys couldn’t have told her beforehand is beyond me. I am kind of curious as to why a kiss could heal the Sea of Starlight, but them having, ahem, relations, had no effect on the kingdom? Seems like it would at least bring some trees back to life 🤨.
Now Cassia and Braeton... if I’m being honest, I just don’t really care about them. They feel superfluous, and their’s is a relationship that doesn’t feel particularly developed. Even the kiss to try and force the magic had already been done by Rhys and Amalia; we don’t need to see that twice with the exact same result. I get that’s it’s nice and uniform to have someone from each country on each throne, but... meh. I’m not invested in them.
The third book really helped redeem the series, and I’m looking forward to the fourth and final installment. Thank you to the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I also like that Amalia found her spine. She’s always been sweet, but now she’s tough. I much prefer that to the constant damsel in distress. She doesn’t let Rhys off immediately, and that’s important too. Tapscott does a good job of making the struggle to forgive him feel real without being petty. Again, why Rhys couldn’t have told her beforehand is beyond me. I am kind of curious as to why a kiss could heal the Sea of Starlight, but them having, ahem, relations, had no effect on the kingdom? Seems like it would at least bring some trees back to life 🤨.
Now Cassia and Braeton... if I’m being honest, I just don’t really care about them. They feel superfluous, and their’s is a relationship that doesn’t feel particularly developed. Even the kiss to try and force the magic had already been done by Rhys and Amalia; we don’t need to see that twice with the exact same result. I get that’s it’s nice and uniform to have someone from each country on each throne, but... meh. I’m not invested in them.
The third book really helped redeem the series, and I’m looking forward to the fourth and final installment. Thank you to the author for providing me an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2025
And the third is better than the second- yes! I am adoring this sweet YA series.
Now we’ve added two more POV, that if Seraphina, the fairy “witch” from the northern end of Renove who healed Rhys and Aeron, one of Rhys’ fellow Knights. And yes, they are a welcome addition to the story.
And you thought Amalia’s luck was bad before. Now it seems as if the darkness overwhelming Draegan is focusing all its monsters on Braeton and Cassie’s group as they move towards the rift chasm towards Renove. Unfortunately the betrayal Amalia feels from Rhys’ dishonesty has robbed them of their magic, so it’s no surprise when the creatures amass to attack where the Renove group has sheltered alongside the inland sea. Rhys and his men rushing to their aid, followed by the kingdom’s capital city fighters. With Amalia left behind to shelter is safety, can we be sure that the tides won’t turn again once her former protector, now husband is beyond her reach?
The odds are worse than ever and the cost for freeing the kingdoms has never been higher as we are on the back side of this 4-part series and racing swiftly towards the final stage.
You’ll love getting to know more of Aeron and why he is as surly as he is and Seraphina’s own part in how the rift chasm came into being all those years ago. As this book spends the majority of its time in Draegan we learn just who their people and monarchy are, mostly close one storyline and pick up one of the dangling plots from book one that just may surprise you.
On my way now to the story’s final book and I am so excited for how it all works out.
Now we’ve added two more POV, that if Seraphina, the fairy “witch” from the northern end of Renove who healed Rhys and Aeron, one of Rhys’ fellow Knights. And yes, they are a welcome addition to the story.
And you thought Amalia’s luck was bad before. Now it seems as if the darkness overwhelming Draegan is focusing all its monsters on Braeton and Cassie’s group as they move towards the rift chasm towards Renove. Unfortunately the betrayal Amalia feels from Rhys’ dishonesty has robbed them of their magic, so it’s no surprise when the creatures amass to attack where the Renove group has sheltered alongside the inland sea. Rhys and his men rushing to their aid, followed by the kingdom’s capital city fighters. With Amalia left behind to shelter is safety, can we be sure that the tides won’t turn again once her former protector, now husband is beyond her reach?
The odds are worse than ever and the cost for freeing the kingdoms has never been higher as we are on the back side of this 4-part series and racing swiftly towards the final stage.
You’ll love getting to know more of Aeron and why he is as surly as he is and Seraphina’s own part in how the rift chasm came into being all those years ago. As this book spends the majority of its time in Draegan we learn just who their people and monarchy are, mostly close one storyline and pick up one of the dangling plots from book one that just may surprise you.
On my way now to the story’s final book and I am so excited for how it all works out.
November 21, 2020
This one wasn't as great.
It felt rushed. Was predictable at times. Boring at times. A lot more telling than showing. Too many perspectives imo. I feel like this then led to character perspectives blending and you couldn't tell who's who because they were all too similar to each other. Yay for another hetero couple (note: sarcasm; ick). Their world is literally getting destroyed and the tension and stakes still didn't feel high enough. Very obvious it would have the "happy ending (with cliffhanger to keep interest)", so it didn't keep it interesting. And said cliffhanger was more of an eyeroll than anything. The things that first stuck out to me and drew me in aren't in the story anymore. I'm kinda glad the last book in the series isn't out yet because I would feel obligated to finish it right now. By release of the last one, I'm not sure if I'd even read it. And I like having the option of not finishing it ('cause I seriously know how it's going to end anyway).
Also, no smut scene? Not a one. Not even a hint. Not even something tame. Just a very very loose insinuation. I think having even something tame would heighten the tension and scandal (like "*gasp* they're boning while their world is dying?! How dare they but also get some").
It started off as a head-empty read. But it got so head-empty where the writing just wasn't it that it became head-full of criticisms and couldn't enjoy.
It felt rushed. Was predictable at times. Boring at times. A lot more telling than showing. Too many perspectives imo. I feel like this then led to character perspectives blending and you couldn't tell who's who because they were all too similar to each other. Yay for another hetero couple (note: sarcasm; ick). Their world is literally getting destroyed and the tension and stakes still didn't feel high enough. Very obvious it would have the "happy ending (with cliffhanger to keep interest)", so it didn't keep it interesting. And said cliffhanger was more of an eyeroll than anything. The things that first stuck out to me and drew me in aren't in the story anymore. I'm kinda glad the last book in the series isn't out yet because I would feel obligated to finish it right now. By release of the last one, I'm not sure if I'd even read it. And I like having the option of not finishing it ('cause I seriously know how it's going to end anyway).
Also, no smut scene? Not a one. Not even a hint. Not even something tame. Just a very very loose insinuation. I think having even something tame would heighten the tension and scandal (like "*gasp* they're boning while their world is dying?! How dare they but also get some").
It started off as a head-empty read. But it got so head-empty where the writing just wasn't it that it became head-full of criticisms and couldn't enjoy.
November 2, 2020
holy heck, what an ending!
i think this is tapscott’s best series yet - and that is really saying something.
i’m loving the cast of characters and the story’s evolution and the world-building; it’s history and it’s politics and it’s setting and it’s customs and it’s cultures.
this is also a book that’s not worse than the first two - even though it took me a little bit to get back in the story, something that happened in the first book as well, i loved loved the ending. and i am so excited for the next one!!
continue reading for some opinions:
i think this is tapscott’s best series yet - and that is really saying something.
i’m loving the cast of characters and the story’s evolution and the world-building; it’s history and it’s politics and it’s setting and it’s customs and it’s cultures.
this is also a book that’s not worse than the first two - even though it took me a little bit to get back in the story, something that happened in the first book as well, i loved loved the ending. and i am so excited for the next one!!
continue reading for some opinions:
January 22, 2021
It feels like I took a much longer time to get through the third book of this series than it took me with the others (it did!), and even though I had valid reasons (work, life), it was also because I knew that the fourth book is only releasing on 29 January 2021 and I wasn't in the mood to end on a cliffhanger and have to wait weeks for me to get my fill of the series. Now I only have a week left, and the cliffhanger is bad but not bad-bad, so I think I might survive.
I enjoyed the focus on more characters other than Amalia and Rhys in this book. Amalia is still way too forgiving and I find her very naïve and pampered, but the other female characters made up for her damsel in distress personality. Cassia was introduced in the second book, and she remains as a favorite throughout this series. I have big love for Braeton, and I hope he just grows in the last series.
Seraphina and Aeron were two other welcome additions in this book, and I enjoyed the complexity of both characters.
The world building of this series is done well and the author is very descriptive throughout the book. I still recommend these highly to anyone who enjoys fantasy novels.
I enjoyed the focus on more characters other than Amalia and Rhys in this book. Amalia is still way too forgiving and I find her very naïve and pampered, but the other female characters made up for her damsel in distress personality. Cassia was introduced in the second book, and she remains as a favorite throughout this series. I have big love for Braeton, and I hope he just grows in the last series.
Seraphina and Aeron were two other welcome additions in this book, and I enjoyed the complexity of both characters.
The world building of this series is done well and the author is very descriptive throughout the book. I still recommend these highly to anyone who enjoys fantasy novels.
October 24, 2020
Holy buckets
It was amazing!
My first thought when I started reading was "who the * is Serafina". Quickly remembering that she was the fairy from the first book, I realized this is going to be so much more complicated than it needs to be.
How hard is it for the rightful heirs to marry those they love and claim their thrones??? Right? RIGHT?
Well, it is far more intricate than that. We get answers to burning questions, and have several more arise!
Dawn of Darkness is intense! The battles make your heart stop. And the sweet moments between the twins and their loves make you swoon. We get the added bonus of some fairy commentary that reveals more of the darkness that lives in Draegan and Renove. So very epic! I loved it all.
I look forward to the final leg of this journey. But I think Rhys will be in for quite the surprise when they go back to Renove. How did he put it? "Still, this next leg of our journey to mend the kingdoms will be far easier."
🤣 Boy, does he ever have that wrong!
It was amazing!
My first thought when I started reading was "who the * is Serafina". Quickly remembering that she was the fairy from the first book, I realized this is going to be so much more complicated than it needs to be.
How hard is it for the rightful heirs to marry those they love and claim their thrones??? Right? RIGHT?
Well, it is far more intricate than that. We get answers to burning questions, and have several more arise!
Dawn of Darkness is intense! The battles make your heart stop. And the sweet moments between the twins and their loves make you swoon. We get the added bonus of some fairy commentary that reveals more of the darkness that lives in Draegan and Renove. So very epic! I loved it all.
I look forward to the final leg of this journey. But I think Rhys will be in for quite the surprise when they go back to Renove. How did he put it? "Still, this next leg of our journey to mend the kingdoms will be far easier."
🤣 Boy, does he ever have that wrong!
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