Ancient magic lurks in the shadows. The Black Bloods’ home is more magnificent than Ena imagined, and more perilous than the life she fled. The time has come for the Black Bloods to unite against the Guilds, but loyalties born in blood will be tested by fire. And not everyone she loves will survive the flames. As murder and malice surround her, Ena must prove her innocence or risk a fate worse than death. Facing her enemies will test every friendship she has and risk the heart she has won. There is no love strong enough to protect her from the path ahead…and the darkest night has yet to come.
Megan started writing when she discovered playing Cordelia in King Lear leaves you way too much time waiting backstage. She began her career as an author during an ill-fated trip to Oz. She hasn't stopped writing (even when living on a tour bus) since.
Megan's wanderlust has led her all over the globe. When she's not planning her next escapade, she's diving into fantasy worlds where she doesn't have to worry about what rules she's supposed to follow or how many pairs of socks she can fit in her suitcase.
Her love of storytelling has helped Megan weave her real-life exploits into seven different book series. From the epic fantasy world of Ilbrea to the paranormal dystopian romance of Girl of Glass, there is always is a new way to escape into adventure.
Megan would love to connect with you on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or TikTok but feels obliged to warn you in advance that you will be hearing about her cats…a lot.
If you want to stay up to date on all Megan's books and adventures (and hear about her cats) you can find all her social media links, including where to sign up for her readers community at: https://linktr.ee/meganorussell
Ena is the orphaned and unlikely heroine who is dragged or chased into every "chivving" conflict in the messed up land of Ilbrea. Is she on the right side? Will she have enough allies? Can the truth survive the malice that is creeping in from every corner of the land?
I haven't felt this way about a series since Divergent (by Veronica Roth) and we know how that turned out. Megan O'Russell keeps up a steady stream of injustice, inciting revulsion, anger and dread (in the characters and in me).
There's one more book after this one and I sincerely hope there's a deeply tragic and satisfying conclusion to this series... there are certainly enough allusions to the world burning.
What an absolutely fantastic story this is becoming! I was quite spellbound when reading this, and so sad when I had finished it. There is a certain beauty to parts of this author's writing that I absolutely love, whilst she also tells a cracking tale! Rarely, I didn't guess who the traitor was, that is revealed in this book. Nor can I always tell where the plot is going, which is a nice change! Reader, I was in tears at one bit. I really can't wait for the next book!
Y’all, I can’t even right now! This next installment in the series is SO good! So much happens. The whole book is filled with suspicion and suspense. There’s quite a bit of action as the clan fights to find the traitor within their ranks. The betrayal I felt in the end was purely gut wrenching. In the end the blood will flow, the world will burn, and no enemy will be left standing.
Finn is still my favorite throughout the series. His charm, witt, and finesse are as sharp as his blade. I love his fierce protectiveness for those he cares for.
Ena really comes into her own earning her place at Liam’s side. Her bravery and loyalty knows no bounds for the people she loves.
Emmet, hot damn! We finally get to see him in action when he goes on a rager and the stories all makes sense now. But he’s also still a bit of a mystery. I’m dying to know what secret he and Ena share that make them special.
The story of Ena continues as she experiences the wonder of the mountain kingdoms and learns of her own role in moving their cause forward. Challenges abound, but as long as she has Liam by her side, she will survive. This is a very moving episode in the story of Ena and I highly recommend it.
First things first - the writing and narration! As with the rest of this series, the writing is positively enchanting. It flows like honey, just beautiful, descriptive, and consuming. The story flows beautifully, and there are some short, interlude style chapters that add even more nuance (this is will all the books), sometimes observational, sometimes reflective, sometimes giving additional context to lore, they add to the overall flow and feel, and are a really nice touch. Add to that the fantastic narration, which helps to completely draw you into the story. Alexandra Hunter gives Ena a voice that is so perfect for her. It’s emotional, real, soothing, and yet powerful. If you have the option to listen to the audiobook, I can’t recommend it more highly.
Now onto the story. We are well into the heart of this series now. There are some pretty major revelations in this book, all the way through to the end, that are helping to propel us into what is sure to be a very compelling and intense final installment with the next book. We get much deeper into the clan politics of the Blackbloods, learning more and more about the lore and myth surrounding their magic and the mountain. The relationship between Ena and Liam is both strengthened and greatly tested, repeatedly. This aspect, which has been slow burn until now, really takes on a much bigger role in this book, and the timing and impact are absolutely perfect within the context of the rest of the story. There are also some secondary character developments that are going to be hugely impactful going forward as well. I’m not gonna lie, one specifically towards the end of the book (well, I guess it’s more two characters, but one in particular) has left me devastated, heartbroken, and furious. I had to walk away from the book for a bit to collect myself before I could continue. I’m sure there will be a greater purpose to it, but I’m simply crushed.
As I said, the final book of this series is set up to be pretty epic. Battle lines are seemingly drawn, and war is most definitely at hand. I’m both excited and terrified to see how this is going to end, but I’m loving every second of it.
I was so excited to read this book. I finished the second book and immediately knew I had to get the third book. So I bought it and read it in two days. I just could not put it down! And guess what... I loved every minute of it.
This book picks up with Ena inside the mountain, which you would have known if you read the sample or preview of the book, so I promise it's not a spoiler( but what? The mountain let her in? Crazy stuff, man.) She roams around a little bit, but she does eventually get out because if she didn't it would be the most boring book in the history of ever. She reunites with Liam and all her friends from camp, and things just kind of escalate from there.
I don't want to give anything away that happens but there is a lot that happens. There is more romance in this book (I mean the bar was set pretty low from the second one where Liam and Ena kissed once the entire book?) There's more traveling, which I personally enjoy. You get to see more of the Sorci children, which wasn't the worst. Sometimes when books incorporate children into them, they make the kids ALWAYS present and kind of super annoying, but Megan O'Russel did a great job not doing that with these ones. Doran is my favorite. I relate to almost everything he says. You finally get to see Lygan Hall, which was neat. Unfortunately for me, but fortunately for anyone that doesn't like Emmet, he was barely in this book. There is a sad part, and there are lives lost. Yes, lives plural.
I really liked this book; it was a great step up from the last one. I love Liam and I love Liam and Ena together, and they had a slow build relationship, which made their reunion all the more pleasurable to read. I cannot emphasize this enough--I love Ena and Liam. They are the cutest couple I've read about in a while and Liam and Ena better make it through the end of this series together or I will lose my mind.
Overall, I greatly enjoyed this book. There's never a dull moment and I love all the adventures the characters go on. I have an aggressive love for this book, and I'm sorry if this review is all over the place. What I'm trying to say is: if you at all liked the first or second book, pick this book up! You will not regret it. Great job Megan O'Russel. Keep up the good work!
This is Book 3 in the Ena of Ilbrea series by the fabulous Megan O’Russell and it was fantastic. I would even say it’s my favourite yet in this saga as sssoooo much happened! I honestly cannot wait to pick up the next. I was gifted the audio version in return for a non biased review. Like the previous 2 books this was narrated by the amazing Alexandra Hunter. I gotta say her voice is brilliant and really reminds me of Scarlett Johansson. You need to have read or listened to the previous 2 as it picks up exactly where book 2’s awesome cliffhanger ending left us.
The mountain has saved Ena, but she is left wandering around in its dark depths, desperately looking for an exit. While looking, she makes an amazing discovery, one that when she gets out, she feels she needs to keep close to her chest and those gut feelings are never wrong. Not long after her return words gets back that one of the other black bloods leaders has murdered, the blame is placed on Ena and her brother. They must attend a trial with all the Black Blood leaders in order to prove her innocence.
This is just a taste of what is going on in this book as I mentioned above so much happens and it can’t be missed. There is death, lies, betrayal, discrimination and so much more. Can’t recommend this one enough, especially when the descriptive writing can bring you to tears. Top that off the narrator does a wonderful job bringing it to life. The character development with Ena from book 1 to now is immense. She has come a long way and will fight for what’s right and her people with bravery and determination. The writing and build up means you will struggle to put this one down. Oh and “Putting on my Armour” is something I will say for a long time! I’m so using this in real life. This really resonates with me as it’s something we all do but I never had a name for it…..until now. Top marks 5/5
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have to say that I am deeply invested in this series and have been from the start. This book didn't disappoint and kept me intrigued and needing to read more to find out what would happen next on Ena's journey.
This book reveals more of the clans and their beliefs and inner workings as the reader finally gets a glimpse of Lygan Hall for the first time. Much of the book is spent dealing with the question of who the traitor is to the clans, and dealing with beasts that are sent after them as they try to find safety. Ena gets to see more of Liam's, and the other clan members world and she has to deal with being a bit of an outsider to the members of the clan who she hasn't been living with since she was first rescued and brought to the camp.
The traitor is finally revealed in this book and it results in some pretty heart-wrenching stuff so brace yourselves. I'm going to have to go and try to recover from this book, but I definitely highly recommend this entry in Ena's series. I can't wait for the next installment!
Reviewers Note: I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
After the major cliffhanger at the end of book two, I could not wait to delve into the third installment of Ena of Ilbrea. While the book had a slow start, author Megan O'Russell definitely did not disappoint.
In Ice and Sky, readers will delve deeper than ever into the world of Black Bloods, from seeing Lygan Hall to understanding more traditions and laws put in place by the Clans Council. Additionally, many of the questions I had posed after book two were answered, including the identity of the traitor. No spoilers: Reflecting on the development of this world, I cannot recall any specific moments of foreshadowing that can clue the reader in. Nonetheless, I was correct in my assumption, but it ended sadder than I was anticipating—prepare your heart!
Going into the final book of the saga, I am predicting an action-packed plot that will conclude the unjust rule of the guilds. The main question here is will the clans finally decide to work together towards this common goal? Or will they let the ending situation of the third book affect their future?
The dark night came and I don’t know what to chivving do. The third installment is such a fast pace read. My anxiety was high and I was on the edge of my seat towards the end. I’m happy that Ena is finally able to stand by her lovers side. I definitely saw character growth in Ena in this book. I loved how she was standing up for herself. I’m here for it!! I’m in a bit of a shock as a character is no more. I am absolutely gutted. I’m at a loss.. I really enjoyed the journey that the mountain had Ena take. It was very interesting and I’m looking forward to see what happens next. I loved how the mountain is a magical, living thing. That listens to humans and considers them. The narrator, Alexandra Hunter is fantastic and I was hooked listening to the story till the very end. The narrator used a variety of tones and inflections to portray several characters. It was very easy to follow along. If you enjoy a slow burn romance, and a epic fantasy storyline then consider picking this series up. It’s a chivving rollercoaster.
An emotionally-charged, gripping, heart-pounding, action-packed magical adventure that quite literally engulfed me into the storyline and kept me on the edge of my seat with anticipation. The intensity of the storyline has me completely invested in the characters and their struggles. This entire series rakes my emotions over the coals, yet has me coming back for more. It's so well-written and filled with betrayal, choices, declarations, sacrifice, friendships, loss, love, fierceness, devotion, endurance, love, bravery, and strength. Strong character development and detailed world building. Highly recommended.
Secrets are hidden within the mountain, but only revealed to some. "Forged in ashes." Complete and utter strength is born out of heartache. Relationships of pure, innocent beauty brought tears to my eyes.
"I'm yours for as long as you'll love me." "I would fight the entire world to protect you." "My place is with you." "There is always a choice."
Ugh where to begin!! I love this series, I have right from the start. I love Ena and I am in love with Finn. Their friendship is something I live for. I really enjoyed Ena’s connection with the mountain in the beginning. I felt it fitting for her that the mountain wishes for her to know, to help protect her people. Horay for Ena and Liam even though I was silently hoping that Ena and Finn would get together but I like Liam too. I was completely immersed with the story up until my heart shattered into millions of pieces. My beloved Finn died!! HOW COULD YOU MEGAN!!!!! Overall, this instalment just flowed so nicely from the last two books, all the characters are growing so much and I can not wait for the next book to see how the kids grow into their places. I’m devastated that my beautiful Finn won’t be a part of the next instalment but I’m so excited to see which direction it heads in!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Beautiful storytelling, varying between intense, immediate scenes that draw you in and dream like lyric interludes that give the feel of a legend. A book I did not want to put down! Easy to read and fast moving, but oh so rich and engaging.
The previous two books dealt mainly with outside enemies; this one introduces enemies from within. Far more is learned about the clans' dynamics, their history and their magic. There is also more romance, more action, more heartbreak. Relationships of all kinds are explored as the characters continue to grow and develop.
As book 3 of 4 it is a transitional book and hard to say much about without spoilers. There are some good thematic arcs threaded through the books; many of the tensions that drove action in this book were seen beginning to build in book 1. A couple things I didn't really like were true to the characters and history laid out previously. An excellent read and I am eagerly awaiting book 4.
The story just gets better and better though at the end of this book we had to say goodbye to a good friend.
Megan weaves a wonderful tale of love, betrayal and determination that I for one can hardly wait for the final book to come out as traitors are routed out and dealt with. Part of me wanted to witness the end of a traitor but Megan leaves us enough that we can picture his demise in our minds.
Readers of young adult and adult books will really enjoy this tale as life hardens people on the outside but still leaves them human in the inside; and really doesn’t that explain what we, ourselves, do too when we get beat down by what life gives us?
I heartily recommend this book and series as one you really should read-the story is one that will tug on your heartstrings as well as being a book you’ll find hard to put down!
This was both a great book and a tough book to read. Ena really steps up into her true person, but there are still many people underestimating her and/or driven to protect her when the woman does NOT need protecting. I had trouble putting it down most of the way through the book, but once I got about 70% in, there was no chance I was going to bed until I knew what happened.... and I'm not sure that was a good decision. Because 1) The book ends on a serious cliffhanger with all kinds of crap going down. 2) At the time, I thought the fourth book was due out in June. Lucky for me, it just came out this week, and I'll be picking up #4 when I'm done with my other current book.
I did not expect to like this series this much. But I really, really do.
Jesus nooooooooo! 😭 I’m broken. I was invested! And it’s broken me. I loved this book, the world building in this series is so good. The characters we meet I am invested in.
In this book we find out who the traitor is. That sucked, my guess was wrong.
A main character is killed :( and it hurts my heart. I need to finish the series but I’m scared.
4.5 stars worth the listen. I liked the narrator a lot. Once again I must say it really does remind me of Sarah j maas series throne of glass series but it has no smut.
There is romance but no details, fade to black. For those interested.
Gifted audio in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A heart stopping, action packed story with a betrayal that blindsides you. There’s a traitor in the midst of the Duwead clan and no one knows who it is . Orla, Liam’s mother calls the camp back to Lygan Hall early due to the attacks. The journey is full of peril and continues once they reach the Hall. Accusations are thrown, traitors are found out and a heartbreaking death. I loved this book and series so far.
Ice and Sky delivers a satisfying punch, expanding the Ena of Ilbrea series with thrilling twists, blossoming romance, and a gut-wrenching finale. The traitor's reveal will leave you gasping, while Ena's relationship with Liam finally ignites, sending sparks flying. Be prepared for tears, but know they fuel an even stronger desire for justice and truth to prevail. This is Ena of Ilbrea at its finest, leaving you desperate for the next chapter.
Gah!!! So many emotions! Ena shines in this book, she has so much she has to overcome. Finding her way back, trying to discover the traitor, and then being summoned by the leader. This had me on the edge of my seat, and full of emotions, I am anxious to continue with what happens next!
I listened to the audiobook and again the narrator did a phenomenal job of immersing you into the story.
LOVE LOVE LOVING THIS SERIES!!:-). There was sooo much romance in this one….but also a great deal of tragedy & intrigue…. Many of the characters are more developed in this one and the reader begins to understand them so much more intimately!!! Also, LOTS N’ LOTS of action, adventure, & magic!!:-). LOVED IT!!:-)
Ena's journey in this book was filled with anguish. It had so many heartwrenching moments and really deepened the story of Ilbrea and the Black Bloods. The author does a great job of driving the story and leave you wanting more. I look forward to reading the conclusion of this series in the next book.
The adventures continue with Ena, Liam amd Finn. Monsters. Struggle. An uncomscious young girl. More monsters, all with stone hearts. A traitor. So many deaths. And love. What a fantastic addition to this brilliant series. Can't wait for more.
Ena's journey continues through terror, joy and heartbreak into discovery, determination and a search for revenge. Make sure you're well settled in because you'll want to read non-stop to the end. Enjoy !!
I really don't know why this series isn't talked about more. It is great for younger readers as well, there's romance with out too much spice. But I have blown through the first three books of the series and and loading up the fourth to finish it.
The more I read of this story the more I love it. Even the word “chivving” didn’t bother me so much in this book. And the ending 😳 ........ , ok so I cried. Definitely on to book 4.
I really enjoyed listening to this book. This book has so many twists and turns. It made me smile. It made me bawl my eyes out. I can't wait to listen to more.