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Aisling #2
Aisling: A Spell Unbinding
No longer mortal and not quite Sidhe, Aisling finds herself caught between two worlds and racing toward Lofgren’s rise: a peak in the Fjallnorrian North said to not only hoard the mortals’ curse breaker but also the answers Aisling seeks.
Across frostbitten feywilds and through enchanted fae kingdoms, Aisling’s desire to discover her true self is complicated by the ambitions of those around her. Among them, Dagfin, the Roktan Prince, and his heartfelt duty to protect Aisling. And Lir, the Sidhe King of the Greenwood, equally as obsessed with finding the curse breaker as he is hunting Aisling down.
Old and new enemies alike surround the Not-So-Mortal Queen as she draws closer to the truth of who she is. Each motivated by power, by vengeance, and by a single unifying thought: Aisling must stay away from the Sidhe King of the Greenwood lest their true binding breed desolation in this realm and the next.
Across frostbitten feywilds and through enchanted fae kingdoms, Aisling’s desire to discover her true self is complicated by the ambitions of those around her. Among them, Dagfin, the Roktan Prince, and his heartfelt duty to protect Aisling. And Lir, the Sidhe King of the Greenwood, equally as obsessed with finding the curse breaker as he is hunting Aisling down.
Old and new enemies alike surround the Not-So-Mortal Queen as she draws closer to the truth of who she is. Each motivated by power, by vengeance, and by a single unifying thought: Aisling must stay away from the Sidhe King of the Greenwood lest their true binding breed desolation in this realm and the next.
455 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2023
44 people are currently reading
2360 people want to read
About the author
A.E. Jürgens
4 books197 followersA.E. Jürgens grew up overseas as a diplomat’s daughter, living in over nine different countries and five continents. She recently settled down in the United States with her South African husband and two sons. But that hasn’t stopped her from exploring enchanted lands or fantastic realms through the pages of her favorite novels and the letters on her keyboard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
February 3, 2023
All the freaking stars. No 2nd book syndrome here. I didn’t think it was possible, but this book was even better than the first. The push and pull between Aisling and Lir was delicious. Soulmates who are prophesied to be each others demise. Forbidden mates?! Aisling coming in to her power and growing into this strong woman after being sheltered was incredible to watch unfold. I love this world so much. It’s beautifully written, and sucks the reader in. I didn’t want this book to end, but also wanted to devour every single word as quickly as possible. If you havent read Aisling 1 yet, what are you waiting for?! Looking forward to book 3. Until then, I’ll be rereading the first 2 books. Thank you to the author for the arc.
August 30, 2023
true enemies to lovers
October 13, 2023
In the vein of the first book, this is written in great detail as if you're reading folklore. The depth into faerie and mortal history and the world building are top-notch. I think that the risk of heavy history and detail is the plot doesn't get enough attention although I can say this book had more plot development and action than the first but I wanted more.
So the hunt for the curse breaker- it was foreshadowed that she was the curse breaker and I didn't find that to be a great revelation. I think this book needed a stronger enemy than the Lady. She wasn't in the book much and it just didn't bring any intrigue or suspense.
We also know that her brothers would betray her and that they'd be part of the final fight. I wanted more of a stand off but they just escaped at the end of the fight? That's it. And I think her father should have been present somehow at the end.
The highlight for me was when Fionn held Aisling captive and Lir had to pass the tests. What was missing was the back story on Fionn. He comes out of nowhere as his brother and it would have been more compelling to understand the history between these two brothers. Take it a step further and get us to like Fionn then we feel torn between the brothers.
Dagfin. He is the one character that has heart in this story. He holds any humanity that's left in Aisling. He is loyal to a fault and while I think his death was necessary given his addiction, I don't know how I feel about him coming back from the Other World. I don't mind a love triangle but this one is overshadowing the plot. It's way too much for way too long.
Lir. I still think his character is too flat. I understand he's now realizing his feelings for Aisling are deeper than he thought, but I don't know that I particularly like him for her. I don't even know if I like him. His actions are there but we get very little dialogue from him. After this very, very slow burn, they came together in such a rushed way at the end with no gravity. It made me think that Lir isn't the one.
Overall, I needed more punch, more heart, and more emotion tying the reader to these characters and a bit less history and description.
So the hunt for the curse breaker- it was foreshadowed that she was the curse breaker and I didn't find that to be a great revelation. I think this book needed a stronger enemy than the Lady. She wasn't in the book much and it just didn't bring any intrigue or suspense.
We also know that her brothers would betray her and that they'd be part of the final fight. I wanted more of a stand off but they just escaped at the end of the fight? That's it. And I think her father should have been present somehow at the end.
The highlight for me was when Fionn held Aisling captive and Lir had to pass the tests. What was missing was the back story on Fionn. He comes out of nowhere as his brother and it would have been more compelling to understand the history between these two brothers. Take it a step further and get us to like Fionn then we feel torn between the brothers.
Dagfin. He is the one character that has heart in this story. He holds any humanity that's left in Aisling. He is loyal to a fault and while I think his death was necessary given his addiction, I don't know how I feel about him coming back from the Other World. I don't mind a love triangle but this one is overshadowing the plot. It's way too much for way too long.
Lir. I still think his character is too flat. I understand he's now realizing his feelings for Aisling are deeper than he thought, but I don't know that I particularly like him for her. I don't even know if I like him. His actions are there but we get very little dialogue from him. After this very, very slow burn, they came together in such a rushed way at the end with no gravity. It made me think that Lir isn't the one.
Overall, I needed more punch, more heart, and more emotion tying the reader to these characters and a bit less history and description.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
3.75⭐️so i loved the first the book in this series, absolutely loved it and don’t get me wrong I enjoyed this one also! The world-building and imagery was fantastic, Jürgens writing style sucks you in and makes you feel like your a part of that world.
My only real complaint was the scene that we’ve all been waiting for (between Aisling and Lir) at the end, it felt a little rushed and a bit boring- this was a slow burn so I was expecting fire works but it was more like a ‘Wham, bam, thank you ma’am’ kind of situation. So yeah that knocked the rating down for me if I’m honest.
My only real complaint was the scene that we’ve all been waiting for (between Aisling and Lir) at the end, it felt a little rushed and a bit boring- this was a slow burn so I was expecting fire works but it was more like a ‘Wham, bam, thank you ma’am’ kind of situation. So yeah that knocked the rating down for me if I’m honest.
February 7, 2023
“I’m afraid of myself,” she said, surprising herself the moment the words fell from her lips. “I’m afraid of what I’m becoming.”
i'm blown away by jürgens writing prowess. i was taken aback countless times by how beautifully she was able to craft this word and these characters. especially considering that this is her debut series. just wow. there's not an ounce of predictability or staleness to be found. when i imagine a perfect epic fantasy saga, this is what im picturing.
first and foremost, lets talk about aisling. i love this character so very much. every passing scene continues to cement her place in the morally grey mc hall of fame. her angst has grown so much since she was first introduced in book one and her struggle to toe the line of good versus evil took a much more prominent role in this book.
i don't think that i realized just how big of a role that lir has in her struggle but throughout this book he's constantly urging aisling to embrace her inner darkness. the events of this novel seem to make it abundantly clear that lir is going to be deeply intertwined with her potential descent into moral bankruptcy. the moral differences (or lack thereof) between lir and aisling was a super interesting dynamic to observe. generally speaking, their relationship only grew more explosive and the stakes became much more drastic which made the reading experience all that much more engaging.
dagfin also had much more page time than he did in the previous book. this was really intriguing to see because he seems to serve as a physical manifestation of aisling past whereas lir represents her potential future. the contrast between the way both of those relationships change and grow was beyond interesting to read.
i cannot wait until book three. this series is the gift that keeps on giving.
i'm blown away by jürgens writing prowess. i was taken aback countless times by how beautifully she was able to craft this word and these characters. especially considering that this is her debut series. just wow. there's not an ounce of predictability or staleness to be found. when i imagine a perfect epic fantasy saga, this is what im picturing.
first and foremost, lets talk about aisling. i love this character so very much. every passing scene continues to cement her place in the morally grey mc hall of fame. her angst has grown so much since she was first introduced in book one and her struggle to toe the line of good versus evil took a much more prominent role in this book.
i don't think that i realized just how big of a role that lir has in her struggle but throughout this book he's constantly urging aisling to embrace her inner darkness. the events of this novel seem to make it abundantly clear that lir is going to be deeply intertwined with her potential descent into moral bankruptcy. the moral differences (or lack thereof) between lir and aisling was a super interesting dynamic to observe. generally speaking, their relationship only grew more explosive and the stakes became much more drastic which made the reading experience all that much more engaging.
dagfin also had much more page time than he did in the previous book. this was really intriguing to see because he seems to serve as a physical manifestation of aisling past whereas lir represents her potential future. the contrast between the way both of those relationships change and grow was beyond interesting to read.
i cannot wait until book three. this series is the gift that keeps on giving.
February 7, 2023
5 stars 5 stars 5 staaaaaaaaaaaaaars!
This book absolutely enraptured me. One of the most vivid, atmospheric, heart wrenching Fae stories I’ve ever read. This book has such rich creature lore, the magic is amazing, and probably one of the best examples of truly “morally gray” characters and “enemies to lovers.” I myself as the reader was constantly changing sides and opinions on who the real villain of this book was. What an ending. I’m going to read book three in one sitting. I can’t wait.
This book absolutely enraptured me. One of the most vivid, atmospheric, heart wrenching Fae stories I’ve ever read. This book has such rich creature lore, the magic is amazing, and probably one of the best examples of truly “morally gray” characters and “enemies to lovers.” I myself as the reader was constantly changing sides and opinions on who the real villain of this book was. What an ending. I’m going to read book three in one sitting. I can’t wait.
December 27, 2023
the first 30% of the book is so fucking infuriating.
the last 70% of this book is so anthony bridgerton “you are the bane of my existence and object of all my desires” coded. you will either get it or you won’t.
the last 70% of this book is so anthony bridgerton “you are the bane of my existence and object of all my desires” coded. you will either get it or you won’t.
January 19, 2023
"The dark is feared. You and I weren’t made for the light, ellwyn. You were left to rot perhaps but seized the shadows and wore them like a hide on your back until you became the beast instead of ran from it, and now, the dark is yours to rule. Ours to rule."
I am so unwell in all the best ways. This book has burrowed under my skin and dug it's claws straight into my soul.
Picking up where we left off, Aisling's journey to find who she is both literally and figuratively plays out before us as she traverses the path to Lofgren's rise; a chaotic imbalance of her new and former self.
After book one I was incredibly impatient to see how Aisling would grow; to see how her relationships with Lir, Dagfin and her brothers would unravel in her power. Her cognitive dissonance in the first novel left me wanting and now I am so grateful to the author for this - experiencing everything that happens in book two was so deeply impactful and satisfying. The emotional/physical reactions this novel was able to pull from me is a rarity.
I honestly can't do justice the intricately woven and hauntingly beautiful story this author brings to life with absolutely poetic prose.
This series is a high fantasy, slow burn, TRUE enemies to lovers (no insta love here) that heavily focuses on world building, character development, politics and lore. Don't read this book casually for romance (although you'll get it before the end of book 2 with all its dark intensity and angst), read it so it can CHANGE you. Read it so it can stay with you long after you read the last page.
I am so unwell in all the best ways. This book has burrowed under my skin and dug it's claws straight into my soul.
Picking up where we left off, Aisling's journey to find who she is both literally and figuratively plays out before us as she traverses the path to Lofgren's rise; a chaotic imbalance of her new and former self.
After book one I was incredibly impatient to see how Aisling would grow; to see how her relationships with Lir, Dagfin and her brothers would unravel in her power. Her cognitive dissonance in the first novel left me wanting and now I am so grateful to the author for this - experiencing everything that happens in book two was so deeply impactful and satisfying. The emotional/physical reactions this novel was able to pull from me is a rarity.
I honestly can't do justice the intricately woven and hauntingly beautiful story this author brings to life with absolutely poetic prose.
This series is a high fantasy, slow burn, TRUE enemies to lovers (no insta love here) that heavily focuses on world building, character development, politics and lore. Don't read this book casually for romance (although you'll get it before the end of book 2 with all its dark intensity and angst), read it so it can CHANGE you. Read it so it can stay with you long after you read the last page.
November 13, 2023
I was lucky enough to be chosen as an ARC reader for Aisling: A Spell Unbinding and I feel like I’ve been given a truly magical gift.
Breath of the New Creature was, hands down, my favorite book. Until yesterday.
Yesterday, I was swept back into this magical world and didn’t leave until my IPad crash landed onto my face at 1am. Apparently sleep is necessary or something.
Today, I devoured the remainder of this novel and can confidently say this is my new favorite.
Aisling’s character development is perfect. She didn’t stubbornly hold onto her brainwashed naïveté, as some heroines do, and truly came alive in this book. Her acceptance of herself is a breath of fresh air in a world of book heroines that cling to their goodness like shields.
And then there’s Lir.
Oh, Lir. *insert wistful sigh* Lir is completely unhinged in book two and I absolutely love it. He pushes against Aisling’s boundaries in a way he didn’t dare (or didn’t care to?) in book one and his brutal honesty huuuuurts. Their relationship is fraught with distrust but their banter feels so natural and their flirtations made my heart race. And, yes, there is spice!
I was far too consumed with this novel to see a single twist coming and was pleasantly surprised by the direction the ending took.
Overall, I can happily say that, while book one toyed while my emotions, book two shattered me in multiple ways.
I’m already pining for book 3.
Breath of the New Creature was, hands down, my favorite book. Until yesterday.
Yesterday, I was swept back into this magical world and didn’t leave until my IPad crash landed onto my face at 1am. Apparently sleep is necessary or something.
Today, I devoured the remainder of this novel and can confidently say this is my new favorite.
Aisling’s character development is perfect. She didn’t stubbornly hold onto her brainwashed naïveté, as some heroines do, and truly came alive in this book. Her acceptance of herself is a breath of fresh air in a world of book heroines that cling to their goodness like shields.
And then there’s Lir.
Oh, Lir. *insert wistful sigh* Lir is completely unhinged in book two and I absolutely love it. He pushes against Aisling’s boundaries in a way he didn’t dare (or didn’t care to?) in book one and his brutal honesty huuuuurts. Their relationship is fraught with distrust but their banter feels so natural and their flirtations made my heart race. And, yes, there is spice!
I was far too consumed with this novel to see a single twist coming and was pleasantly surprised by the direction the ending took.
Overall, I can happily say that, while book one toyed while my emotions, book two shattered me in multiple ways.
I’m already pining for book 3.
January 25, 2023
I don’t know if I have the words to suffice how this book made me feel..
A.E. Jürgens is phenomenal. I am in love with her writing style. Her world building. The characters!!
I have never been so immersed into a fictional world such as this one. It feels solid. Like a place I can visit.
This book had me in tears, chuckling, SCREAMING.
I will always recommend this series for Fantasy lovers. The slow burn is delicious. The tension… 1000000/10. The spice level even went up a notch. 🥵
I’ve never highlighted so much in a book ever..
This is the second in the series. The first being Aisling: Breath of the New Creature.
5 ⭐️
1 🌶️
I’d classify this as an adult high fantasy romance.
A.E. Jürgens is phenomenal. I am in love with her writing style. Her world building. The characters!!
I have never been so immersed into a fictional world such as this one. It feels solid. Like a place I can visit.
This book had me in tears, chuckling, SCREAMING.
I will always recommend this series for Fantasy lovers. The slow burn is delicious. The tension… 1000000/10. The spice level even went up a notch. 🥵
I’ve never highlighted so much in a book ever..
This is the second in the series. The first being Aisling: Breath of the New Creature.
5 ⭐️
1 🌶️
I’d classify this as an adult high fantasy romance.
April 28, 2023
I cannot wrap my mind around this book. Who and what I was rooting for throughout the book changed so frequently. I’m not sure if my favorite characters are antagonists or protagonists. I’m so very confused in the best way. I was on the edge of my seat nearly the entire time. This story is so unique and magical.
July 25, 2023
I really hate a love triangle. 3 stars cause the human love interest got killed. Yay!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2025
“change is painful, ellwyn; the oaks mourn their leaves come autumn, the night bleeds into sunset, and the wolf cries at the blood moon. but there is meaning in the suffering”
oh fuck yeah. i love these books. my only complaint is wayyyy too much dagfin in this book. i am sick of him. i felt as if aisling didn’t really choose Lir and she more was forced to choose him?? obviously she chose him before *spoiler* dagfin died but like i don’t trust she wouldn’t run back to him. also i need her to need Lir as much as he needs her. i feel like she hasn’t given her heart to him and that’s pissing me off because i just 2 long ass books for them to get together and she’s not that committed lowkey!! also dagfin PLEASEEE just stay dead, ur not winning her back dude. atleast i hope not. otherwise really good. i usually only include the bad stuff in my reviews anyways.
i just really don’t think lir and aisling are emotionally connected, i understand the whole fae vs mortal dilemma with emotions but still. i need the characters to rather kill themselves than be apart from eachother when they finally get together. i wasn’t feeling that! definitely feeling that from Lir. hoping the next book is better??? idk
and to add on more, UNNEEDED LOVE TRIANGLEEE. dagfin and her could’ve just been great friends! yes technically he was a good character but i just can’t stand anyone that gets in the way of my fav characters. i just hate love triangles cause wdym you’re stuck between a mortal childhood love and a FAE BADDIE KING WHO IS YOUR SOULMATE AND WOULD KILL FOR YOU??? and tatted, and carries axes with him, and has abs, and he’s hot. i’m sorry it’s an obvious choice but i do understand the whole dagfin being her past and lir being her future, but STILL
oh fuck yeah. i love these books. my only complaint is wayyyy too much dagfin in this book. i am sick of him. i felt as if aisling didn’t really choose Lir and she more was forced to choose him?? obviously she chose him before *spoiler* dagfin died but like i don’t trust she wouldn’t run back to him. also i need her to need Lir as much as he needs her. i feel like she hasn’t given her heart to him and that’s pissing me off because i just 2 long ass books for them to get together and she’s not that committed lowkey!! also dagfin PLEASEEE just stay dead, ur not winning her back dude. atleast i hope not. otherwise really good. i usually only include the bad stuff in my reviews anyways.
i just really don’t think lir and aisling are emotionally connected, i understand the whole fae vs mortal dilemma with emotions but still. i need the characters to rather kill themselves than be apart from eachother when they finally get together. i wasn’t feeling that! definitely feeling that from Lir. hoping the next book is better??? idk
and to add on more, UNNEEDED LOVE TRIANGLEEE. dagfin and her could’ve just been great friends! yes technically he was a good character but i just can’t stand anyone that gets in the way of my fav characters. i just hate love triangles cause wdym you’re stuck between a mortal childhood love and a FAE BADDIE KING WHO IS YOUR SOULMATE AND WOULD KILL FOR YOU??? and tatted, and carries axes with him, and has abs, and he’s hot. i’m sorry it’s an obvious choice but i do understand the whole dagfin being her past and lir being her future, but STILL
February 4, 2023
"You shouldn't trust a promise, Aisling."
5/5 ⭐
1/5 🌶️
3/5 🔥
"Tell me, do you believe a mere mortal could face a Forge-blessed beast and live to tell the tale? No, the Gods made certain that mankind's curse purged our lungs of the draiocht and made us weaker. So that if ever we were to stand against them, we'd fail."
Aisling: A Spell Unbinding is book 2 in the Aisling Series.
Tropes:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Celtic Mythology
-Quests
-Unique Magic
-Epic Fantasy
-Slow Burn
"He will come for me."
We get to see multiple POVs and we get a closer look into certain characters and get a real understanding of who they are. We see them grow and watch as they question their paths. We will fall in love but we will also experience betrayal. We will feel their anger and experience their desires.
Jurgens is freaking brilliant! The writing, world-building, dialogue, and story are magnificently done. I could not put this book down.
"So, you want me to win. Perhaps I already have then."
"You're the key to my prison and no more."
"All I'm hearing is that I'm your salvation."
These books are fabulous and I highly recommend them.
A.E. Jürgens is now one of my insta buy authors. If she writes it, I will read it!
5/5 ⭐
1/5 🌶️
3/5 🔥
"Tell me, do you believe a mere mortal could face a Forge-blessed beast and live to tell the tale? No, the Gods made certain that mankind's curse purged our lungs of the draiocht and made us weaker. So that if ever we were to stand against them, we'd fail."
Aisling: A Spell Unbinding is book 2 in the Aisling Series.
Tropes:
-Enemies to Lovers
-Celtic Mythology
-Quests
-Unique Magic
-Epic Fantasy
-Slow Burn
"He will come for me."
We get to see multiple POVs and we get a closer look into certain characters and get a real understanding of who they are. We see them grow and watch as they question their paths. We will fall in love but we will also experience betrayal. We will feel their anger and experience their desires.
Jurgens is freaking brilliant! The writing, world-building, dialogue, and story are magnificently done. I could not put this book down.
"So, you want me to win. Perhaps I already have then."
"You're the key to my prison and no more."
"All I'm hearing is that I'm your salvation."
These books are fabulous and I highly recommend them.
A.E. Jürgens is now one of my insta buy authors. If she writes it, I will read it!
May 22, 2023
The intensity in everyone’s gaze throughout this entire book was going to put me on my ass! We were left on a massive cliffhanger and our hearts exposed that is literally right where we start off on this second book.
I was twisting and squirming reading through the first half. There is just tons of emotion and heart placed into the writing so behind each… situation (I don’t like to write reviews that include spoilers)… it’s hard not to push through and go through this journey with Aisling and Lir in one solid reading session. You are guaranteed answers behind each adventure no matter how large or small they are written and that’s what makes the mystery presented so juicy and flavorful in this series.
There was a specific scene that was written and it but so much weight in how Lir stared after Aisling well after she left the room…. THE WAY IT WAS WRITTEN MADE ME FEEL SO DANG MUCH. FOR LIR, FOR AISLING AND FOR THE REALM. IM JUST BLOWN AWAY A BOOK COULD EXIST LIKE THIS.
“The taste of something forbidden staining her tongue and wetting her appetite.”
I was twisting and squirming reading through the first half. There is just tons of emotion and heart placed into the writing so behind each… situation (I don’t like to write reviews that include spoilers)… it’s hard not to push through and go through this journey with Aisling and Lir in one solid reading session. You are guaranteed answers behind each adventure no matter how large or small they are written and that’s what makes the mystery presented so juicy and flavorful in this series.
There was a specific scene that was written and it but so much weight in how Lir stared after Aisling well after she left the room…. THE WAY IT WAS WRITTEN MADE ME FEEL SO DANG MUCH. FOR LIR, FOR AISLING AND FOR THE REALM. IM JUST BLOWN AWAY A BOOK COULD EXIST LIKE THIS.
“The taste of something forbidden staining her tongue and wetting her appetite.”
February 9, 2024
2.5 stars. I normally always root for the morally grey character(s) but in this case I didn't want to and it felt weird. I'm also still having a hard time figuring out what is driving the FMC, so it makes it hard to enjoy the story, and it's sometimes difficult to parse the MC's motives in general. I do plan on doing a reread this year though so maybe the second time around things will make more sense. The writing is lyrical and has some really pretty lines: "The rain descended toward the earth like stars made of honey, dripping from the sky."
April 2, 2023
I am enthralled. My heart has been ripped apart and I am begging for more.
I have thoroughly enjoyed J.E Jürgens writing. She is detailed in her descriptions, immersing us into the world she has created.
Aisling continues her journey of self discovery now racing against friend and foe to seek answers to her burning questions.
- possible spoilers, but also don’t wang to give away much -
One of the biggest things I have loved about this series so far is that Aisling does not give up her power for anyone. Instead she seeks it. She plays with her power, learning and growing with it. There are times she is hesitant, unsure and influenced by some of those around her.
Ive seen some say she is no long relatable but I disagree. I feel if anything she is even more so.
She is hungry for truth, for strength and power.
I love this for her. I want this for her. No women should have to give up a part of themselves for anyone.
A favorite quote of mine from Aisling being “Never, Never will you or any other leave me to rot in the dark again.”
I enjoyed the dynamic between Aisling, Lir and Dagfin. The exploration into them, and other characters givens much depth and emotion.
There are many twist and turns.
My heart was ripped out, stitched together and again in the end destroyed.
There is so much in this sequel that I cant say too much less I give away more then I should.
Please read this series!
I have thoroughly enjoyed J.E Jürgens writing. She is detailed in her descriptions, immersing us into the world she has created.
Aisling continues her journey of self discovery now racing against friend and foe to seek answers to her burning questions.
- possible spoilers, but also don’t wang to give away much -
One of the biggest things I have loved about this series so far is that Aisling does not give up her power for anyone. Instead she seeks it. She plays with her power, learning and growing with it. There are times she is hesitant, unsure and influenced by some of those around her.
Ive seen some say she is no long relatable but I disagree. I feel if anything she is even more so.
She is hungry for truth, for strength and power.
I love this for her. I want this for her. No women should have to give up a part of themselves for anyone.
A favorite quote of mine from Aisling being “Never, Never will you or any other leave me to rot in the dark again.”
I enjoyed the dynamic between Aisling, Lir and Dagfin. The exploration into them, and other characters givens much depth and emotion.
There are many twist and turns.
My heart was ripped out, stitched together and again in the end destroyed.
There is so much in this sequel that I cant say too much less I give away more then I should.
Please read this series!
May 6, 2024
I feel a little conflicted giving it 3 starts. Maybe 3.75 stars would be more accurate, because I still did enjoy reading this, but not nearly as much as the first book.
I still loved the setting, the world, the characters and the writing itself. But the way the first book started, the imagery it created, and the path to Annwyn afterwards, was just truly chef's kiss.
I think Aisling got to me at times, not because of what she's going through but I felt like her humanity was tied too much to Dagfin, and she lacked a few more humanizing things about her that would have driven home the decisions she made (pouring one out for my boy Dagfin, good lord I loved him so much).
Specifically, my most favorite part of the book was in one of Dagfin's chapters, where he looks over in the distance to see Aisling practicing with a sword, and flowers/vines bloom in her hands, and Lir walks passed acting like he didn't do anything and she smiles. Such a touching moment, and it just really stuck with me. I think I could have read moments like that over and over. Lir, Aisling, Dagfin, they're all characters who have grief and are allowed a moment of reprieve.
All in all, I did enjoy it, and I will still read (and am very excited for) the next book in the series.
I still loved the setting, the world, the characters and the writing itself. But the way the first book started, the imagery it created, and the path to Annwyn afterwards, was just truly chef's kiss.
I think Aisling got to me at times, not because of what she's going through but I felt like her humanity was tied too much to Dagfin, and she lacked a few more humanizing things about her that would have driven home the decisions she made (pouring one out for my boy Dagfin, good lord I loved him so much).
Specifically, my most favorite part of the book was in one of Dagfin's chapters, where he looks over in the distance to see Aisling practicing with a sword, and flowers/vines bloom in her hands, and Lir walks passed acting like he didn't do anything and she smiles. Such a touching moment, and it just really stuck with me. I think I could have read moments like that over and over. Lir, Aisling, Dagfin, they're all characters who have grief and are allowed a moment of reprieve.
All in all, I did enjoy it, and I will still read (and am very excited for) the next book in the series.
December 29, 2023
I cannot believe how little reviews these have! Both books are absolute masterpieces but the second?!?! Omfg!!!! A.E Jürgens, you outdid yourself! 🫡
The world building, the twists and turns, the emotions I went through. I have never been so in love with and so frustrated by characters more than Lir and Aisling. I understand Aisling and her rage but she also frustrates me to no end which is where I think I relate to Lir hahaha
I cannot wait until the third book. I’m not ready but I have to be 😭
The true definition of enemies to lovers and slow burn 🤌🏼 IT HURTS SO GOOD
The world building, the twists and turns, the emotions I went through. I have never been so in love with and so frustrated by characters more than Lir and Aisling. I understand Aisling and her rage but she also frustrates me to no end which is where I think I relate to Lir hahaha
I cannot wait until the third book. I’m not ready but I have to be 😭
The true definition of enemies to lovers and slow burn 🤌🏼 IT HURTS SO GOOD
February 25, 2023
Book two took the magical and whimsical element to a whole other level.
The lore so immersive I felt I was hiding beneath a canopy watching the story unfold
I felt lost at times, the writing too authentic that I couldn’t follow
But the end brought everything together in a delicious bow
Im excited too see where book 3 goes especially with the development of Lir and Asling’s relationship
The lore so immersive I felt I was hiding beneath a canopy watching the story unfold
I felt lost at times, the writing too authentic that I couldn’t follow
But the end brought everything together in a delicious bow
Im excited too see where book 3 goes especially with the development of Lir and Asling’s relationship
May 23, 2023
I’m fucking seething rn , well I HAD a really heartfelt review and was literally like ab to cry while writing it bc I felt so passionately about how much I LOVE THIS BOOK but my Goodreads decided to crash and my review is lost in space
anyway this book tore my heart to itty bitty tiny little pieces , 5 stars
anyway this book tore my heart to itty bitty tiny little pieces , 5 stars
August 5, 2024
5⭐️ : once again after like 30% I COULD NOT put this book down. 30% took a week (due to life and other books) 70%: basically a day. 😂
The tension, the love triangle, the finding one self. I adore the side characters (wish there was a little more time with them…but maybe next book?!) the writing is absolutely beautiful. Absolutely cannot wait for book 3 and the re-read of this series. 😍
The tension, the love triangle, the finding one self. I adore the side characters (wish there was a little more time with them…but maybe next book?!) the writing is absolutely beautiful. Absolutely cannot wait for book 3 and the re-read of this series. 😍
February 14, 2023
Okay, I am not mad or happy with this book. The author decided to play the roller coaster game in the mc emotions and it drove me up the wall half the time but I was still intrigued to see where this was going...
January 6, 2024
I enjoyed this even more than the first. All of the world building in book one paid off for book two. Again the writing style of the author is amazing as well. This one had me on the edge of my seat waiting to see what was going to happen and kept me guessing too.
January 27, 2023
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC and I am thankful for the opportunity. I loved everything about this book. The pace, the world building and of course the characters were to die for. But what I adored the most is the romance. It was absolutely amazing and I just couldn’t stop reading once the main characters reunited.
February 24, 2024
I wish I could will myself to read the third book, but I'm tired of this ......
I felt 80% less for Aisling in this book than the first one, a sympathy that I feel will dawdle even more as I read the third book. So no, I will not be tuning in 💔💔💔 I could SMELL the potential from this book, so my disappointment is immeasurable.......
I don't have many problems with the plot, as this book had alot more of it than the first, but where the first book relied heavily on relatability with Aisling, as a mortal pushed into a world she knows nothing about, a world she's been bred to hate, as she begins to slowly understand the propaganda she's been fed by her father, I thought that would be interesting to see, how she learns to find a place in all this confusion and betrayal she feels from her own kind, and the hate she's forced to face from the Aoi sì as the hate they have for mankind is all thrust on her. SO I STUCK ONTO THE HORRIBLY SLOW FIRST BOOK FOR SWEET LIFE HOPING IT WILL REWARD ME FOR MY PATIENCE. But what do I get 😃? "Oh Aisling couldn't fit in cus homegirls built different" 💀💀💀💀💀💀💀 so all the relatability is deleted off of existence. Apparently Aisling not fitting in is a skill issue 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 like the author really was like Aisling is some all powerful sorceress that isn't even HUMAN who doesn't know the depth of her potential 🥺🥺🥺 everyones actually scared of her 🥺🥺🥺🥺 she's so girlboss core 🥺🥺🥺 she's the key to everything because of course she's fucking is 🥺🥺🥺
The very much HUMAN AND MORTAL girl we knew and were shown , a girl who is courageous in her self sacrifice whose love for her own kind fuels her into becoming stronger, is suddenly wiped off the planet because the book just straight up TELLS you , in contradiction to what's been SHOWN to us, that "oh the old Aisling can't come to the phone right now...oh? Cus she's been gutted by a vessel of what she once was and now deal with this girlboss caricature of someone that was once worth rooting for." Aisling becomes spiteful and mean, is indecisive, is impulsive, cares for nothing but the concept of "gaining power" cus "I wanna make everyone scared of me 😈😈😈" like?????????? You really went from a fleshed out, relatable human girl, to someone from who everyone's scared of ( which is incredible bullshit cus I can tell you 5 characters that can beat the shit outta her) and this chosen one that's the key to everything.........
I'm so filled with rage from Aisling's character death I can't even rant About the other problems with this book.
The romance is so horribly paced that even Wattpad stories are more satisfying. Lir is better written than Aisling by FAR but homeboy too falls Victim to the book's obsession with Aisling and thus his character gets overwritten by this weird ass "desire" ( I can only say desire cus the book thinks it's too cringe for too characters to genuinely come to love each other) he has for her. A desire that's probably unrequited cus in the end the only thing fueling Aisling's attraction towards lir is a need to be powerful and I can NOT even begin to tell you how....surface level and synthetic it is.
I'm litr heartbroken I spent too much time on this for it to be like this 😭😭 should've given me a story on peitho bro I'd eat that shit UPPPP.
I felt 80% less for Aisling in this book than the first one, a sympathy that I feel will dawdle even more as I read the third book. So no, I will not be tuning in 💔💔💔 I could SMELL the potential from this book, so my disappointment is immeasurable.......
I don't have many problems with the plot, as this book had alot more of it than the first, but where the first book relied heavily on relatability with Aisling, as a mortal pushed into a world she knows nothing about, a world she's been bred to hate, as she begins to slowly understand the propaganda she's been fed by her father, I thought that would be interesting to see, how she learns to find a place in all this confusion and betrayal she feels from her own kind, and the hate she's forced to face from the Aoi sì as the hate they have for mankind is all thrust on her. SO I STUCK ONTO THE HORRIBLY SLOW FIRST BOOK FOR SWEET LIFE HOPING IT WILL REWARD ME FOR MY PATIENCE. But what do I get 😃? "Oh Aisling couldn't fit in cus homegirls built different" 💀💀💀💀💀💀💀 so all the relatability is deleted off of existence. Apparently Aisling not fitting in is a skill issue 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 like the author really was like Aisling is some all powerful sorceress that isn't even HUMAN who doesn't know the depth of her potential 🥺🥺🥺 everyones actually scared of her 🥺🥺🥺🥺 she's so girlboss core 🥺🥺🥺 she's the key to everything because of course she's fucking is 🥺🥺🥺
The very much HUMAN AND MORTAL girl we knew and were shown , a girl who is courageous in her self sacrifice whose love for her own kind fuels her into becoming stronger, is suddenly wiped off the planet because the book just straight up TELLS you , in contradiction to what's been SHOWN to us, that "oh the old Aisling can't come to the phone right now...oh? Cus she's been gutted by a vessel of what she once was and now deal with this girlboss caricature of someone that was once worth rooting for." Aisling becomes spiteful and mean, is indecisive, is impulsive, cares for nothing but the concept of "gaining power" cus "I wanna make everyone scared of me 😈😈😈" like?????????? You really went from a fleshed out, relatable human girl, to someone from who everyone's scared of ( which is incredible bullshit cus I can tell you 5 characters that can beat the shit outta her) and this chosen one that's the key to everything.........
I'm so filled with rage from Aisling's character death I can't even rant About the other problems with this book.
The romance is so horribly paced that even Wattpad stories are more satisfying. Lir is better written than Aisling by FAR but homeboy too falls Victim to the book's obsession with Aisling and thus his character gets overwritten by this weird ass "desire" ( I can only say desire cus the book thinks it's too cringe for too characters to genuinely come to love each other) he has for her. A desire that's probably unrequited cus in the end the only thing fueling Aisling's attraction towards lir is a need to be powerful and I can NOT even begin to tell you how....surface level and synthetic it is.
I'm litr heartbroken I spent too much time on this for it to be like this 😭😭 should've given me a story on peitho bro I'd eat that shit UPPPP.
May 11, 2025
AGAIN bardzo dobra książka. Co prawda mega mnie wkurza Lir, jest mega toksyczny i manipuluje Aisling, ale no przez to że są połączeni przeznaczeniem no to może jest bardziej podatna na tą manipulacje, bo ona w wielu momentach zdaje sobie sprawę, że nią manipuluje, ale stwierdza, że nooo można to pominąć, są ważniejsze rzeczy np WŁADZA. Totaltnie totalnie jestem team Dagfin i mam nadzieję, że to on tam krzyknął do Lira na końcu książki, bo jak mój pookie nie będzie miał happy endu to będę mega rozczarowana. Tutaj pierwszy raz pojawia się scenka morenkowa jedna, ale tak jak przypuszczałam WNOSI COŚ DO FABUŁY I MA SENS, czyli ma dokładnie to czego brakuje w tych młodzieżowych fantastykach. Historia ciekawa, rozbudowany całkiem świat i fajne przemyślenia bohaterów.
Nie mogę się doczekać 3 części, bo napewno ją przeczytam UWAGA SPOILER chociażby żeby zobaczyć czy Dagfin jakimś cudem żyje i będzie miał redemption hihi.
Nie mogę się doczekać 3 części, bo napewno ją przeczytam UWAGA SPOILER chociażby żeby zobaczyć czy Dagfin jakimś cudem żyje i będzie miał redemption hihi.
January 17, 2023
thank you to the amazing author for sending me an e-ARC!!
Aisling: A spell unbinding continues on with Aislings adventure to Lofgrens peak in order to understand who she truly is. This book was so good, I could not put this down whatsoever!!!
the story is told by 3 povs, Aisling, Lir, and Dagfin. Aislings pov is obviously more prominent than the others!
At first I did not care for Dagfin at all nor his pov but he grew on me throughout the book. He is such a good character that i really didn’t expect to love!! He accompanies Aisling on her journey to Lofgrens peak and helps her throughput the whole book! I really did not see that plot twist coming!
I loved Aislings character development in this book she was such a badass!! Especially when she finally learns to accept herself for who she truly is. Her character development was done so well! she stops at nothing to get what she wants whilst protecting those she loves.
Lir is seriously one of a kind love interest, not only does he want Aisling but he cares for her so much it’s so heartwarming!! i loved their banter throughout the whole book and that scene where he asks for a kiss for good luck?? omg i loved it loved it!!!!
I loved seeing their relationship bloom! even though they distrusted one another and disagreed at first, they eventually learned how to trust one another!!!
this book was an absolute adventure filled with betrayals, new characters, secrets, kisses, etc.
i absolutely loved this book and cannot wait until book 3 comes out again!!!
Aisling: A spell unbinding continues on with Aislings adventure to Lofgrens peak in order to understand who she truly is. This book was so good, I could not put this down whatsoever!!!
the story is told by 3 povs, Aisling, Lir, and Dagfin. Aislings pov is obviously more prominent than the others!
At first I did not care for Dagfin at all nor his pov but he grew on me throughout the book. He is such a good character that i really didn’t expect to love!! He accompanies Aisling on her journey to Lofgrens peak and helps her throughput the whole book! I really did not see that plot twist coming!
I loved Aislings character development in this book she was such a badass!! Especially when she finally learns to accept herself for who she truly is. Her character development was done so well! she stops at nothing to get what she wants whilst protecting those she loves.
Lir is seriously one of a kind love interest, not only does he want Aisling but he cares for her so much it’s so heartwarming!! i loved their banter throughout the whole book and that scene where he asks for a kiss for good luck?? omg i loved it loved it!!!!
I loved seeing their relationship bloom! even though they distrusted one another and disagreed at first, they eventually learned how to trust one another!!!
this book was an absolute adventure filled with betrayals, new characters, secrets, kisses, etc.
i absolutely loved this book and cannot wait until book 3 comes out again!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2023
4.5 stars
I thought the last book was good omg this one is better!
The tension between Lir and Aisling is amazing. I didn’t think I could like Aisling anymore but she just got better and better throughout this book. She is such a badass and I loved her dark side shining through. The way the plot unfolded had me shocked. There was so much going on throughout the book that I didn’t end up coming close to guessing the ending. I truly love the authors style of writing and I definitely found this book a lot simpler to read which I appreciated but none of the magic of the writing was lost. I normally don’t care much for side characters but I love them in this series. Such an amazing book and I couldn’t recommend it enough
I thought the last book was good omg this one is better!
The tension between Lir and Aisling is amazing. I didn’t think I could like Aisling anymore but she just got better and better throughout this book. She is such a badass and I loved her dark side shining through. The way the plot unfolded had me shocked. There was so much going on throughout the book that I didn’t end up coming close to guessing the ending. I truly love the authors style of writing and I definitely found this book a lot simpler to read which I appreciated but none of the magic of the writing was lost. I normally don’t care much for side characters but I love them in this series. Such an amazing book and I couldn’t recommend it enough
March 2, 2023
It was a wild ride! I wish there is a book 3 already, but this installment is brilliant on it’s own. In my opinion, this book is better than the last. I will miss being in this world and will patiently wait for Lir and Aisling’s adventures on the next book! It’s kinda sad that Dagfin died, I was shipping him and Peitho! However, I believe it was a pivotal moment that nudged Aisling towards accepting her true self and helped her come to terms with how her mortal tuath sees her. I am delighted by Aisling’s character development and how she embraced her power. Finally, I love how the author spiced up the romance towards the end, it wasn’t a blatant/corny love story but it was inevitable, they ought to be together after all that crusade and all that pent up emotions! All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed this serie and cannot wait how the Lady’s prophecy would unfold.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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