Storm of Shadows

Legends of Imyria #2

by Holly Rose

The path to vengeance is fraught with shadows...

Genres: Fantasy, Magic

386 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 22, 2022

About the author

Holly Rose has been obsessed with high fantasy since the age of 5, when she first watched The Fellowship of the Ring (her parents raised her right). After realizing she couldn’t become an elf, she decided to start writing about them instead. She also grew up on World of Warcraft and copious amounts of anime.

She was born and bred in Wales, United Kingdom, where she currently spends her days terrorizing teenagers with mathematical equations (and sometimes teaching them useful things). When she gets home from school, her real work with writing about magic and mayhem can begin.

Reviews

[Belinda Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author sent me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

​✨Broody Demon Prince
✨Adorable animal companion
✨Strong female lead
✨A quest for revenge
✨SO MUCH FUN BANTER​​

I loved Storm of Shadows more than Ashes of Aether for one reason: Natharius, the Void Prince of Pride! Holly delivered on everything promised by his introduction in Book One!

Reyna has lost so much. The only thing that has her going is her thirst for revenge. She has vowed to end Arluin and free her father from the necromancers. She has summoned the Void Prince from the darkest depths of the Abyss in exchange for her soul. But getting him to co-operate seems tough since he has no interest in the trivial affairs of mortals and would sooner see Reyna dead than be forced to aid in her quest.

As someone who has never traveled out of Nolderan, Reyna's pursuit of vengeance takes her far across foreign kingdoms, where she discovers both new friends and enemies. They figure out what Arluin is after and the stakes are high now. Reyna and Natharius have secrets of their own which they are not comfortable divulging to the other.

Reyna and Natharius's banter had me in stitches every time! Zephyr was so adorable! We could see Reyna's character development throughout the story. I liked that Reyna was shown to be struggling with the responsibility thrust on her.

Natharius was an AMAZING character. He was consistent from the beginning at hating everything and everyone. His character has depth and a backstory I desperately need! It was mentioned and inferred here and there but I am looking forward to him explaining it. I loved watching him slowly warm up to Reyna.

The world building was intriguing with the introduction of new kingdoms and characters. We got to see outside Nolderan finally and it was beautifully written! Getting new characters along the journey is always fun and entertaining. The plot was exciting as expected with the addition of a great evil waiting to be unleashed.

I need more Natharius content! Excited for book three!

[Anabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️
First of all, thank you so much to the author for the arc of this book, I had a super fun time with it! I absolutely loved Ashes of Aether (the first book in the series, go read it) and Storm of Shadows was just as adventurous and exciting. This review will have minor spoilers for the ending of the first book so be warned of you haven't read it!

Synopsis:
‼️includes spoilers for book 1‼️
Driven by a thirst for revenge and the desire to set her father at peace, Reyna sets out on a quest to destroy Arluin and his necromancers after they ravaged her city and captured the souls of everyone who lived there. Together with the demon she summoned and bound her soul to, she must journey across the country, hoping that she will be in time to stop the destruction Arluin is sure to bring to the city of Gerazad. On her quest she meet several new allies, confronts more dangers than she ever has before, and forged a deeper connection with both her companions and the Aether that flows in her blood.

Reyna's adventure from Nolderam to Gerazad through the Ghost woods was full of danger and suspense, and I loved it. The battles that the characters fought, both physical and mental were my favorite part of the book. I loved seeing Reyna's strength growing in her magic and her confidence in her own leadership developing on the journey. Although some parts of her character did annoy me, she felt very real and I enjoyed that.
My favorite character in these books has to be Arluin. I loved him as Reyna's boyfriend in the first book, but I enjoyed him as a villain so much in this story. He was such an interesting protagonist, especially considering his history with Reyna, and I would love to spend more time developing his character even further. I also loved the siblings, Caya and Juron. The little bit of banter that we got from them was so fun and I really connected with their teasing but loving relationship.
The only thing that I didn't enjoy in this book was some of the unnecessary descriptions, that felt like plot building but would end up being nothing. There would be an entire paragraph about something like whether one of the characters could feel cold, that slowed down the flow of the story. I assumed it would come into play later but it never did, and just felt like an unnecessary interruption in the plot.
That is not to say that I didn't enjoy the writing in some places. There were many places that I highlighted as a quote that I liked or an amazing end to a chapter. For Holly's second book, I am extremely impressed!
Overall I had a super good time with this book. It is full of adventure, fighting, friendships, and fun. I definitely recommend that you read both Ashes of Aether and Storm of Shadows, and go follow Holly Rose on Instagram where she runs a ton of giveaways and posts about great deals other awesome stuff! (and sign up for her newsletter to be the first to know all the news) :)

[Faatimah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author sent me this arc in exchange for an honest review.

I enjoyed the first book, but now book 2 has my heart, all because of Natharius and Reyna's dynamic, it was the cutest and squeel-worthy dynamic in this book. Now if you like a grumpy, broody type with a dark past along with a sunshine who is scarred and carries a lot of burdens as well as guilt. THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU!

After everything that has happened in book 1, the continuation here was perfect. The story continues right where we were left in book 1 and you learn more about this world and its history alongside our FMC, Reyna. The path of vengeance is not an easy one and we see such good character growth with her.

The author did a really good job with Natharius, he was consistent throughout the entire book in staying the broody demon prince that not only hates everyone but also wants everyone dead. The little peaks of information we get about his past just make you more curious to know what did exactly happen to him and it adds to his character, I fell in love, If bad why make him loveable?!?!

The world-building was good, it was at the perfect amount of not too much information but enough to keep the reader informed of everything that is going on around them.

There is a progression in this story, as you read on you find out Arluins true plans and it sets the mood in the book. The high expectations, a battle against odds, and a fate resting on one's shoulders. What more can you ask for in a book?

I ate this book up and I am so excited for book 3. I highly recommend this book, well this series.

[Victoria Webb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omgosh! So while this book has zero spice i was hooked. Holly did such a fantastic job with the character development the the imagery i honestly got irritated when i would have to set it down.

Reyna’s journey across Imyria into and through the ghost woods and then trying to defend the orcs and then trying to defeat Arluin. Seeing how Natharius seemingly converts one to her side once he starts to peace together the atrocities that the necromancers are setting out to commit.

And the ending! Omg! I’m struggling so much with it. Absolutely cannot wait for Tears of Twilight to come out!

[Zeina (Taylor's Version) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was very lucky to be sent an arc of this amazing book! (I couldn't finish it on time due to being hospitalised and health issues) but OMG I really really liked this book. I loved Reyna's character development and what happened at the end too. Natharius is a badass I LOVE HIM (I NEED A NOVELLA FROM HIS POV) Caya and Jurons bond is amazing! And let's not forget the most important character for me ZEPHYR I LOVE HIM SOO MUCHHH, if Holly writes a 500 page book or even a novella from his pov I would totally 100% buy it. He is wholesome and his bond with Reyna is SOO FREAKING CUTE. I can't wait to read the third book!!

[Phoebe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally bit the bullet and finished reading this having left the final chapter for weeks because I didn’t want it to end! I adore everything about this series. The characters, the narration, the story, every last bit. Looking forward to book 3 :)

[vanisbookland · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in the series Legends of Imyria was absolutely devastating! No matter how hard Reyna tries, she always seems to be one step behind Arluin and his army of the undead. In the second book of the series I enjoyed the new characters; they gave the story a fresh note, while I found the whole book quite intense, adventurous, gripping, and absorbing. Natharius is growing on me and I cannot wait to find out more about his mystical past. I am also eager to see where the relationship between Arluin and Reyna goes. In Storm of Shadows the plot unfolds even more and takes a more vast shape. Holly Rose keeps her readers on their toes with all the sudden turns and twists. The characters’ complicated past unfolds and their goals become more clear. While romance does not play a major part in this second book, I still enjoyed it a lot and it left me craving the next adventure. Let the journey continue!

[Sana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel was everything I needed and more! Everything I loved in the first book was elevated to a whole other level, which I absolutely loved!!!!

My favourite part has to be the addition of Natharius. Yes, I loved the twins and the priestess, but he was such an amazing character to me. I loved the way he started off hating Reyna, but warmed towards her at the end. Their relationship was great to read because their banter was top notch! They reminded me of Emilia and Wrath, although not in the same romantic sense, but I wouldn’t mind if that was a direction the author wanted to take.

Rayna’s character development was stellar. I like that she struggled with the responsibility she faces rather than being an all-powerful figure as typical in fantasy books. I can’t wait to see where Holly will take her character in the next one.

I was fortunate enough to receive an arc in exchange for an honest review. These are my own thoughts and feelings that haven’t been influenced in any way.

[Book_ista · Rating 3 out of 5]

𝕋𝕚𝕥𝕝𝕖: Storm of Shadows
𝔸𝕦𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕣: Holly Rose
ℙ𝕒𝕘𝕖 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥: 350 pages
𝔸𝕧𝕒𝕚𝕝𝕒𝕓𝕚𝕝𝕚𝕥𝕪: Available Now
ℝ𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘:⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Holly is a dear friend of mine but as a reviewer I need to be completely honest with my readers and followers, so here’s a review as unbiased as I can possibly write.
Ok so I Beta read the first book of this series but ARCed the second, and honestly as much as I loved it I’m still kinda disappointed. I loved where this book is going I loved the journey the main character was going on physically but mentally and spiritually that was a huge disappointment. Here’s what I liked and disliked about this book ⚠️ MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS⚠️

𝕃𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤
🫧 I like Natharius, I usually like the dark grumpy character who is usually plotting the demise of those surrounding him, but would jump in and risk his life to save the day when the need be; however, Natharius is a prince of hell and wouldn’t risk a hair to protect another character. So I didn’t like that aspect of him.

🫧 Zephyr as always is as cute as them faerie dragons come.

🫧 The journey through the world and some of the revelations through the book were interesting to keep track of. I like where this book is going and hopefully the next would make up for it and be a lot better than this one.

𝔻𝕚𝕤𝕝𝕚𝕜𝕖𝕤:
🫧The entire book was quite repetitive, it would happen over and over again same sequence of event renarrated every time, Per example: consumption of Aether Crystals can kill a mage if it was overdone, Reyna consumes them twice throughout the book and I have to be reminded two times of this information, or maybe the fact that Arlin destroyed Nolderan and Everything Reyna hold dear and that her father must be avenged which was repeated countless times through the book.

🫧 I get the sense that Reyna became some what a whiny child throughout this book who constantly took life dependent decisions then doubt herself for this decision and keeps complaining about how close she was to her demise BECAUSE OF THESE DECISIONS SHE TOOK

🫧 The part that annoyed me the most with Reyna was the Jorun scene. I won’t say more about that if you read the book you completely know what I mean

🫧 there is no character growth for Reyna or character background for the new characters being introduced. So I couldn’t make my mind up about where I stand with each of them. As for Reyna she complained the entire book and blamed herself about everything she did and didn’t and that irritated me too much

[Georgina Power · Rating 3 out of 5]

“How can it be wicked to force evil into servitude”

Storm of Shadows picks up two days after the events of Ashes of Aether, and it is another book full of
wonderful world building and a great relationship development between Reyna and the Void Prince, a
real slow burn friendship possible romance developing, which I am completely there for.

Storm of Shadows saw an introduction of new characters such as the Void Prince Natharius, Taria,
Caya and Juron, who all brought their own charisma and personality to the book, with some of their
interactions really shining through and adding to the budding squad vibes throughout the book, I felt
that they worked well with one another, and I feel that there is a budding friendship between Reyna
and Taria developing, which I feel she really needs after the events of AOE and losing her best friend, plus I love the fact that the author has kept Reyna as such a fiercely independent character, it is refreshing to see a lead female that does not rely to heavily on others for help.

I will say that after AOE I did have high expectations for this book, as the first book was fantastic with
a unique magic system that continues in SOS, one that is not very prominent in fantasy books of late,
but there were times in this book that I felt it lacked a bit of punch, there were a number of seemingly
impossible situations that a mysterious escape was found, but yet it still felt a little too easy to me,
regardless they were still action packed and interesting to keep me engrossed in the story and the
plot, especially as the book was still so fast paced.

I really enjoyed this series, but was a little irritated because even though there were more answers provided to the numerous questions throughout this book the showdown between Reyna and Arluin was a bit disappointing, as it had not happened until around the 90% and by the point my wish of a resolve was gone, as by this point I knew there was another book that needed to come, so here I am on another cliff-hanger with Reyna still not avenging the events of AOE, awaiting Tears of Twilight

I would say that this novel would be highly recommended to fans of Elise Kova and Kerri Maniscalco and with some Sarah J Maas vibes. The only difference is that this series so far has not provided instalove and steam, which is great, as sometimes the romance and heat can really take away the plotline of a story/series.

[tasmia · Rating 5 out of 5]

oh my goodness!!!!!!! finished this 40 seconds ago.
that ending is making me want to cry
i need book 3 asap.
but this book only came out a few days ago.
how will i live…..😩

storm of shadows picks up right where ashes of aether left off, beginning with the summoning of the void prince, natharius. some may say he’s loathsome but i think he’s really quite charming. i mean, at first he’s a big scary monster but you’ll see what i mean. i really loved the forced proximity between the 2 and how their characters developed throughout this book!
their relationship is great (apart from the many times they called each other cruel names) but i did love some scenes. their bond is chef’s kiss, whether you see it as platonic or romantic. towards the end, you’ll see that their partnership is fabbb

during the first 1/3 or so, it’s a bit slow but it’s still great. we are introduced to new characters and locations with PERFECT description. i love how the fortress was described. i think imagery is really important when reading a book. if a movie isn’t playing in your head, how can you enjoy it? it felt like we were alongside the characters, experiencing everything with them - so so important! ++ i really admired taria’s character <3

the dungeon part,
the wisps in the ghost woods,
the saddest fight at the end with *thatoneundeadguy*,
the eyeball guy’s disappearance,
finding out about the void prince’s past,
there are so many scenes that leave you on the edge of your seat with your jaw hanging, not wanting to close the book. i can’t say more or i’ll end up spoiling, but READ THIS BOOK whether you enjoyed ashes of aether or not.

overall, i found this book much better than the first so definitely giving 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ can’t wait to read book 3!

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky to receive an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and though I’m a little late to the reviewing party, I have quite a bit to gush about when it comes to the latest instalment of this series.

‼️SPOILERS FOR ENDING OF BOOK ONE‼️

I will admit that this book was definitely a little slower in pacing. It’s based mainly on travels as Reyna journeys away from Nolderan to follow her sworn enemy (and ex) Arulin, alongside her recently summoned Void Prince Natharius. GOD THE BANTER BETWEEN THESE TWO! I literally adored it, and I found that it broke up the travel scenes in a gorgeous way.

There’s also the classic action scenes, which Holly writes vividly. They are always so thought out, the effort put into writing these shows.

All in all, the only thing I’m thinking now is MORE MORE MORE. I cannot wait for the third instalment to see what happens next in Reyna’s quest for revenge.

What I loved:
🧡Fantasy Grumpy & Sunshine
🧡Morally Grey Demon Prince (seriously where do I get me one of those?)
🧡ONE HORSE TROPE
🧡Enemies to disgruntled friends (the banter 😩)
🧡Adorable dragon pet / travel companion
🧡World Building! (We get to see so much more than Nolderan in this one, I felt like I was playing D&D, which is awesome)
🧡Badass Heroine (who does have tendencies to not fully be aware of her power but rocks it anyway)
🧡Creature diversity! (Wraiths, undead, orcs, elves, oh my!)

Thank you again for the opportunity to be an ARC reader!! Can’t wait for the next piece of the story!

[thespookybooknerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

Woah. Where do I even begin?! I read the first book in this series - Ashes of Aether - in July 2021. It was my favorite read for that month, and I could not wait to get my hands on book two (this book). So obviously I went into this one with high expectations. I loved it. Like for real, I'm speechless. Not let down whatsoever.
I love this world Holly has created, it's bursting full of magic! It was amazing being transported back into it and exploring even more of the world. It isn't even just the world itself that we get to explore more of, it's the different individuals and their different types of magic as well! It was all so fascinating to me and I truly enjoyed every second of it.
It's just so well written, the details, the world building, it's all great! We're introduced to some new characters in this part of the story and I have enjoyed getting to know them. Like with book one, I absolutely love Zephyr, Reyna's faerie dragon! My new favorite character is the demon, Natharius. 😍 I can't wait for even more of him in book 3! I'm very hopeful for some romance between him and Reyna 😆 (what can I say, it's my bookish toxic trait)!
I'm so happy to have finally read this one, I can't wait to find out what happens next and to see what adventures we face in book 3, and to continue getting to know these newer characters who have become Reynas group.

I would definitely recommend this series to any fantasy lover!

[Haleigh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strong female lead ✅
Broody Demon Prince✅
Well developed magic system✅
Revenge driven quest✅

Storm of Shadows was a refreshing break from the typical story line of a strong female lead running into the arms of a powerful male to help her at every twist and turn. Yes, she summons a demon to aid her, but this Demon Prince would rather see her dead than save her.

Reyna’s character growth is fantastic. It’s not an over night change, but one that constantly makes the reader wonder “Is she going to give up and succumb to death or will she over come her struggles and get revenge?”

Each obstacle she faces along the way to defeat Arulin and his army of necromancers proves that Reyna isn’t as weak and alone as she thinks she is.
The guilt she carries over the the death of her father and friend along with the destruction of her city further fuels her determination to keep fighting for her life to see Arulin defeated.

Overall, this book reminded me of two of my favorite author’s series: Elise Kova’s “A Trial of Sorcerers” and Kerri Maniscalo’s “Kingdom of the Wicked”. Holly Rose proved that a great story can be written without an overly confident female and it’s okay to be a little unsure of yourself. Also, that there isn’t always a knight in shining armor there to save you. Sometimes you are your only savior.

[Ida Hammerstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the series. The first book ends on a cliffhanger, and this start off right were the first one ended. This review might contain spoilers for the first book.

We are thrust into the world of Imyria, we're there are different types of magic, and magic users. Reyna is pursuing a band of necromancers, and I found her relationship with her companion intriguing. Their not-so-friendly banter develops throughout the book, and I could sense the possibility of their relationship evolving into something friendly.
That being said, the book does not contain any romance at this point, and it's probably for the better. I found it to be a good choice not giving Reyna romantic feelings in this book, as it would take away from the plot. But I do hope the relationship I sensed will blossom into something more in the future.

The book starts off fast, right were the last left off, and has an all over medium to fast pace. It kept my attention throughout, even with a slower part in the middle of the book. This book also ends on a cliffhanger, and I will anxiously wait for the next!

To be totally transparent, I was given this book as an ARC, but I bought the first book with my own money. I would happily pay for this book, and the next in this series.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can already feel the book hangover I’m going to have from this book - it was THAT GOOD! I will say I’m a bit nervous because I can’t find any information on book three and if it’s still in the plans…someone tell me we’re still getting it!!!

After Reyna’s world is destroyed in book one by her ex lover/best friend since childhood she seeks revenge for her home of Nolderan, her father, and her best friend. The only way Reyna can exact revenge on Arluin is by summoning a demon, a Void Prince to be exact. His name is Natharius Thalanor and you love to hate him. He was once a moon elf turned demon and his story is not what you’d think.

Natharius and Reyna have to combat each other, religious zealots, wisps, goblins, and more to find Arluin and get her revenge. It’s not an easy adventure. It’s fraught with tension, distrust, and a deeper back story than Reyna or Natharius could’ve ever imagined. What was once a quest to stop Arluin becomes a quest to save the world from a Lith Lord of ages past. Its no coincidence that Natharius is who he is and he’s been summoned and bonded to Reyna. Their roles are essential to survival for all humans, elves, and orcs.

If this is up your alley, make sure you check out book two in the Legends of Imyria series by Holly Rose!!!

[Irish Bookfairy · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I want to thank Holy Rose for giving me the opportunity to get an advance copy of Storm of Shadows. I might be a bit late to finish it, but life got in the way.

This book picks up right where Ashes of Aether left things, with the summoning of the Void Prince Natharius. Where the first book was action packed from start to finish, Storm of Shadows focusses a bit more on Reyna and her struggles. Natharius' character was my favourite. His sarcasm, his overall "I can't be bothered" attitude and his surprising backstory gave the book everything it needed.

Most of the book is about the journey from Nolderan to Gerazad and all the challenges Reyna has to face. From the start things go wrong and it makes you wonder more than once how they will get themselves out of the situation. So things progress slowly at times but once the action starts, it's just as intense as it was on Ashes of Aether.

I'm looking forward to see what book 3 will bring and I'm hoping Reyna will discover a power that will surprise everyone.

[Lee Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me longer to read this book because I had arc reads to do in-between reading this.
Over all Loved this. Cant wait for book three.

Reyna summons the dark lord. And together they are venturing to figure out how to defeat the one that she used to love. But took everything from her. The journey is long and treacherous but the people that she meets alone the way are sometimes there to help her. But sometimes they don't believe her story, which lands her in a heap of trouble.

Book 2 was interesting. The 4th book of this genre that I have read and I'm enjoying it.
The characters are fun and lots of fun. They have personalities that develop from the beginning and move on. They grow and learn and find themselves. The building of the scenes and lands around then is well done. Though sometimes I find repetitive.

Other all a series worth reading and I can't wait for book three. I can't wait to see how this all ends and if she win the fight for city and what happens if she does. And what happens with her and the dark lord.

[Ally Cloud · Rating 4 out of 5]

Storm of Shadows by Holly Rose is one of the best sequels I’ve read. I’m typically very picky about sequels, but this one has done its job. Rose provided the adventure with the emotions that I don’t normally see in sequels.

I also really like the slow burn between two characters, however, I wish it wouldn’t take so long. To be quite honest, I didn’t really expect to like how the setting stayed the same for the majority of the book, but it surprised me how much I actually enjoyed it. I feel like I got to experience the journey along with these characters. Rose was very creative in the ways she got her characters out of seemingly impossible situations. I never would have expected some of these rescues to happen. Her descriptions are so in depth that I am easily able to see what is happening.

One of my favorite scenes was when it was obvious Natharius was starting to care for Reyna. I also liked that there were some parallels between Reyna and Natharius, they’re more alike than Reyna would like to admit.

Overall, Holly Rose tends to delve into some pretty deep stuff regarding loss, acceptance, and revenge, as well as betrayal.

[Emily P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to receive a copy of Holly Rose second book in the Legends of Imyria series, Storm of Shadows. All I can say is WOW. It flew beyond my expectations. This continues Reynas’ journey right where book 1 left off. The world building is again spectacular and I feel like I get transported right there between the pages with them. We meet some new faces along the way (including the literal cutest companion ever Zephyr.. I need a faerie dragon for myself) and I can’t wait to see what happens with these new characters. Storm of Shadows ends with the longing for the third book. Trust me I’m in book hangover big time!! But in a good way. When I read Ashes of Aether previously it quickly became a favorite, and I’m so pleased to say that Holly Rose completely outdid herself for the second time.
If you love epic fantasy with detailed worlds and magic systems, vengeance driven journeys, and a strong female lead with amazing companions, then I wholeheartedly recommend this.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

After reading book one I had the worst book hangover and finally book 2 is here.

Just like in the first book The world building is fantastic. The author brings her world to life and makes it easy and enjoyable for the reader to escape into the book. The magic system is unique and in book 2 we learn even more about it with Reyna’s new companion Natharius.

The characters are very well written and feel realistic. It’s so enjoyable reading about Reyna’s development and seeing her character grow especially seeing where she started in book 1.

Overall I loved everything about this book and can’t wait for book 3.

This series has become one of my favorites and I really hope more people read it so I can have people to talk about it with 😄😂

This book gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Morgan (youarethelibrarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one picks up right where Ashes of Aether left off, with Reyna having summoned the Void Prince of Pride and making a plan for vengeance.

I liked the tension between Reyna and Natharius, because this could have quickly turned into an enemies to lovers situation, and while that may happen in the future (?), I’m glad it’s not happening quickly because she summoned him and bound him to her will! He hates being told what to do! Plus he has a past that is slowly revealed that makes this quest important to him in the end. I like the new characters, especially Taria.

Arluin is crazy insane, and I wanted him to be more conflicted about Reyna than he turned out to be. Also I want to know more about what happened between him leaving Nolderan with the necromancers the first time, and returning later to destroy it.

[Readingwiththeroberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

😈Storm of Shadows😈

Rating: 5:5⭐️

This book had me hooked from the very beginning! There wasn’t a moment in this story that moved slowly. There was action throughout the entire book and it was amazing! I love the new characters we meet in this sequel. I hope I’m right in the sense that’s this is a very VERY slow burn romance. If it is I will be so happy! There are so many good tropes in this book, but I don’t want to give any away so you’ll just have to read this fantastic book for yourself!

There will be a third book in this series which I am so excited for. I’m not looking forward to having to wait to see what happens next for Rayna and her comrades. I read this as an ebook but I will be getting both books in physical form since they blew my mind!

[enjoyingbooksagain · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Thoughts:
This is the second book in this series I was lucky enough back in May of last year to read Ashes Of Aether book 1. This book is very well written by author holly rose she brings to live a fantasy world and characters old and new that have you wondering what is to happen to Reyna. We find her where she left off still trying but it seems the army of the undead lead by Arulin is still one step ahead. But what awaits the chemistry between Natharius and Reyna will they come together or not?
I would recommend reading book one in this series to get the full background of Arulin and Reyna story. Author holly rose does not let fans of Asher of Aether down with this book it was worth the wait. Now on to book 3.

[Books0507_Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just binged Ashes of Aether and Storm of Shadows because I could not get enough of this story. I did think it was a duology until about 80% I was knew there was no way enough time left to wrap everything up, while I'm gutted I have to wait till next year for more I'm glad we get another book and more of these characters.

The story flows really well, I enjoyed book one but loved this one slightly more I think that's because we get introduced to the Void Prince Pride, I loved his grumpiness and his constant threats to Reyna I kind of get the feeling that there's not really a bite to his words, the way he seems to be always looking at Reyna I'm really hoping for a slow burn romance to happen between these two, I think they would have amazing chemistry and they already have so much in common.

I can't wait to get a hold of book three.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Thank you the author for an eArc in exchange for an honest review.)

After falling in love with the first book and the characters, I was so excited when I heard about the sequel.

I absolutely adore the world building, the characters and the plot of the second book just as much the first book.

Reyna is such a lovable wonderful leading lady character. She has continuously developed become and become stronger and a wonderful main character.

Overall, this book is amazing and truly deserves all the stars in the world.

[gh0st · Rating 4 out of 5]

"And I am determined to be as vicious as a Void Prince of the Abyss. So, I burn them all."

4.5**** stars

OMG?! I need the third book IMMEDIATELY.
This was such an insane improvement from book one. Reyna has gone through tremendous growth and is such a badass now. Natharius? EXCUSE ME. I love him. The banter between these two had me rolling -- I am a sucker for a slow burn, and loved that they were enemies tooth and nail till the very end. Them finally coming together and realizing they need each other was SO good. Unclear if their relationship will be romantic -- but your girl is hoping.

[Juc]

The author sent me an eARC in exchange of an honest review.

After the first book, I had very high hopes for this one. Sadly, the storyline felt very flat. Half of the book was about Reyna going after Arluin - and never reaching him -, and her arguing with the demon. I needed more to stay interested, eventhough I wanted to love it so much. :(

I'm not rating it with stars, since this was a me-problem, and I don't want anyone to be discouraged from the series.

[Jessica Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an arc read.
Reyna has a lot of guit for her current situation and the death of her family and friends. When you choose to love the wrong person it come and bites you. Now, she has to summon a demon to help bring to life justice the man she once loved. She meet more allied along the way and come stronger as her father intend of her. Can she stop him in time or will the world fall? Can't wait for book 3.

[Farida · Rating 5 out of 5]

I signed up to receive the arc of this book, however I wasn't able to finish it at the intended time due to personal issues, and I apologise to Holly for that. I really loved this book! The way characters grow and change is written beautifully, things are getting more heated and I can't wait for the third book to be out! If you haven't picked up the first book or the sequel, you're missing out!!!