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Rowan Blood #2
Lord of Silver Ashes
Silence. Restraint. Disgrace.
After two weeks in the attic of Danann House, Saffron anticipates the moment he can finally be reunited with Prince Cylvan--but that day is unexpectedly marred by a visit from Headmistress Elluin, who doesn't believe Saffron was the one to perform magic in Beantighe Village in the attempt to save Berry. Saffron will be expected to prove it; if he can't, every other human he loves will be arrested and executed for arid practice and conspiracy.
While slowly crushed beneath oppressive walls, rules, and oversight, Saffron must find glimmers of opportunity between hunts in the woods, maintaining the house he's tied to, desperation to be close to Cylvan, and uncovering any arid resource he can get his hands on. But as horrible truths surrounding Lord Taran come to light, Saffron struggles to find hope beneath the weight of his burdens.
However, Saffron knows secrets are kept for a reason. The more he uncovers, the more he understands. Whether it be Taran mac Delbaith or the cruel history of Morrígan Academy, perhaps exhuming centuries of buried blood is exactly what he needs to protect the people he loves most.
After two weeks in the attic of Danann House, Saffron anticipates the moment he can finally be reunited with Prince Cylvan--but that day is unexpectedly marred by a visit from Headmistress Elluin, who doesn't believe Saffron was the one to perform magic in Beantighe Village in the attempt to save Berry. Saffron will be expected to prove it; if he can't, every other human he loves will be arrested and executed for arid practice and conspiracy.
While slowly crushed beneath oppressive walls, rules, and oversight, Saffron must find glimmers of opportunity between hunts in the woods, maintaining the house he's tied to, desperation to be close to Cylvan, and uncovering any arid resource he can get his hands on. But as horrible truths surrounding Lord Taran come to light, Saffron struggles to find hope beneath the weight of his burdens.
However, Saffron knows secrets are kept for a reason. The more he uncovers, the more he understands. Whether it be Taran mac Delbaith or the cruel history of Morrígan Academy, perhaps exhuming centuries of buried blood is exactly what he needs to protect the people he loves most.
492 pages, Paperback
First published October 28, 2022
236 people are currently reading
3773 people want to read
About the author
Kellen Graves
6 books1,340 followersIndie/selfpub author currently living in the eastern edge of the PNW with my partner, two cats, and crystal collection.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 406 reviews
March 29, 2023
This book, this series - I don't even know where to begin. I suppose you could say I have a real love/hate relationship with it. Despite my 1 star rating and all the issues I have with this book, I will return to the series when book 3 comes out because there is this little kernel of magic behind it all that has me invested in what happens next.
When I reviewed the first book, I wrote:
I am intrigued by the MC's, but I need some kind of evolution with them. I don't want to continue to read about Saffron being treated in such a continuously brutal manner. I don't want to continue to think the Prince will remain a cardboard villain with no emotional depth, much less a sympathetic character worthy of Saffron's blatant adoration. The character of the Prince could be extremely compelling, but he has to be more "human" at some point (as in, at some point really, really soon).
This book failed all of the above . . . and yet I finished it and will read the next.
Let's start with what I love and what keeps me invested in the series.
The world-building is magnificent. The deeper the story goes, the more complex the world it takes place in becomes, and all of it is captivating. When the author gets something right, they hit it out of the park. It may sound laughable, but my best example would be the pixies. They are described in a way that makes them such a foreign entity - not human, not fey, not animal, but something else entirely. Their relationship with the other characters is fascinating. I almost think of them as being like cats in the way they interact with people and in their behaviors. In the places where they appear in the story, they are such a welcome addition. They are neither good nor bad, benign nor malignant; they just are, and they are fascinating.
The MC's; the bare bones concept of each of the MC's is so great. The author created a dynamic between the two in chapter one of book one that had me thinking this series was going to be utterly stunning. Despite many drawbacks, I am still invested in them, as I keep hoping they will return to the dynamic in book 1, chapter 1.
That's it for the love. Everything else is on the negative side. There's so much that I have an issue with, it isn't even funny. I'm going to list them because honestly, I hope the author reads this and takes it as the feedback it is intended to be - constructive. Because I want to finish this series and I want it to be successful.
The negatives:
Grammar/spelling/missing words - huge, huge issue for me; and believe me, I am no grammar expert. The misfires are so egregious and numerous that they take me right out of the story every time. Here are a few examples:
The brooch clattered from Saffron’s hands, snapping around just as Kaelar stepped into the room
What the author means (I think/hope/believe) is that Saffron is snapping around. Unfortunately, this reads as the if the brooch is snapping around.
Even Kaelar had left in the opposite direction, distracted by something or someone, not giving Saffron a second glance, that Saffron really thought he was losing his mind.
Umm, what does this even mean? Are we to assume Saffron thought he was losing his mind because Kaeler left abruptly? The bit "that Safron really though he was losing his mind" makes no sense as written.
But in that where he walked, that simplicity was not possible.
Again, what does this mean? Is it something like "However, where he walked, such simplicity was just not possible." "But in that where he walked" makes no sense whatsoever.
Cylvan nudged Saffron forward to get started, patting his ass in encouragement and making Saffron yelp and he hurried down the stairs."
"he hurried down the stairs" - WHO hurried down the stairs? There are two "his/he's" in this sentence. I know the author means Saffron, but it could be read as meaning Cylvan.
Perched on the cushioned sill of the inn window, Saffron held his hand through the pane.
That would be a pretty neat trick, putting your hand through a pane of glass. Perhaps what is meant is that Saffron held his hand through the open windowpane?
This is just a smattering of examples. Each time it happens (read: frequently) I have to pause, mentally step back from the flow of the story, and try to figure out what the sentence actually means. This is deadly when you are deeply involved in a book. I was tempted to DNF at so many points; the only reason I kept on is because I am stupidly invested in the two MC's to the point that I need to know what happens to them.
Random insertion of modern slang
The author takes such pains to create this incredible world and then breaks the rhythm and tone by popping in things like "pain in the ass", "shit-eating grin", "piece of cake". The author needs to remain true to the tone of the world they have built. For instance, couldn't it be "a giant grin split his face"? These instances of modern slang are just so jarring and annoying.
The stunted character development of the MC's
This pertains mostly to Cylvan. As I stated in my review of book 1, I wanted to see Cylvan become something more complex and meaningful and truer to the persona we were introduced to in book 1, chapter 1. Apparently this is never going to happen.
Gazing down at him, at his broken prince who continued to mumble under his breath, somehow still perfect despite also so very disheveled
At the time I read this, I made a Kindle note of this line and added this comment: "This has got to be the most useless prince I've ever heard of. Doesn't the guy have some kind power in his own freaking kingdom? Why is his family OK with how he's acting? Why does he have to kowtow to Taran? What happened to the arrogant, ferocious being that Saffron first met in the start of book 1? When did the neutering take place?"
That pretty much covers it. Cylvan is a complete cipher - actually, it would be more accurate to say he's incomplete because I just don't know who he is supposed to be. Is he supposed to be brooding and damaged and toxic? All I get is that he is powerless, ineffective and oblivious. I can't count the number of times in this book where Saffron is in danger/pain and Cylvan, despite being right nearby, sees nothing, hears nothing, and does squat to support/defend Saffron - hell, it would be an improvement if he just effing noticed something was wrong. At one point he states to Saffron:
No one is going to bother us—especially when they see who is with you.
Riiight, because Cylvan has SO much power and influence and knows how to wield it. Only not.
Additionally, Cylvan gets negative bonus points because he can't hold his liquor.
Cylvan approached with a drunken flush in his cheeks just like the others, touching Saffron’s shoulder and asking if he wanted anything for dinner.
This after leaving Saffron outside and at the mercy of whoever might want to use him as a punching bag while Cylvan isn't looking (because he chooses not to and would rather get hammered with his frenemies.) I'm getting tired of scenes where he's drunk. Seriously, get a handle on it dude.
I want to read about the Cylvan from book 1, chapter 1. I want him to be haughty, overbearing, full of all kinds of flaws, but able to overcome what he's trained to be all his life because of Saffron's love and devotion. It can even happen in teeny, tiny baby steps or in a "one step forward, two steps back" kind of way, just as long as it happens. The author has dangled what could be a fantastic character in front of me and I keep trudging along, hoping that character will evolve into what we caught a glimpse of at the start of the series. Shit, I want the Cylvan depicted on the cover of book 1 - strong, fascinating, intimidating. I want to have a love/hate relationship with Cylvan. Instead, it's more of a sustained disbelief and loathing. Not good.
Saffron is actually evolving in terms of growing stronger in his determination and dedication, but it goes sideways because he is such a freaking martyr. We get things like this throughout the book:
That burden was Saffron’s alone to bear.
Why? When did the universe appoint Saffron as supreme savior of all who are oppressed? And as if that isn't bad enough, why the hell does Saffron insist on thinking like this:
He couldn’t ever face Cylvan, knowing what he’d done, how he’d ruined everything because he wasn’t smart enough, strong enough. Worthless—useless—impertinent—selfish—arrogant—
In Saffron's mind, Cyvlan is a perpetual victim who can do no wrong. There's no culpability for Cyvlan's many mistakes and oh my God, Cyvlan suffers so much more than Saffron ever could. (End sarcasm here.) This is infuriating. At this point, I'm starting to hope Saffron throws Cylvan over for Asche, who is already a far more nuanced and gutsy character than his brother.
Why Taran suffers Saffron to continue living AND keep his memories
I do not, NOT, understand why Taran, who is vicious and powerful (and has already killed multiple times) not only keeps Saffron alive, but also allows Saffron and Cylvan be together by themselves for long periods of time. If Taran is really this ruthless bastard, why wouldn't he be smart enough to just kill Saffron and be done with it? The author twists and torques the plot to make Saffron's continued existence and easy access to Cylvan fit in with the story, but it just doesn't. For God's sake, why did it take almost 1,000 pages before
The continuing, ongoing, endless bouts of torture and violence involving Saffron
Early in the book, the torture begins:
Saffron’s finger snapped beneath Cylvan’s strength. He bit back a scream, slumping to his knees as Cylvan finally released him and stepped back.
and doesn't relent at any point. I'm unclear as to why Saffron has to suffer SO much ALL the time; it's like the author delights in thinking up new ways for Saffron to be in pain. It's really overboard. The shackles and collar were bad enough, but then the "veil weights" were added and I wanted to throw up. As a reader, you want to have at least some fleeting glimpses of things getting better. I don't think Game of Thrones even had this much unrelenting pain and torture in it. Can't we move towards depicting peril in a more intellectual way and lighten up on the explicit pain and suffering? If not, at the very least Cylvan needs to become more present and reactive to what Saffron is enduring. If Cyvlan is being restrained from helping Saffron, that's one thing. Cylvan choosing to have a drunken dinner while knowingly leaving Saffron exposed to enemies doesn't work. Actually, I don't even know how the plot can justify Cylvan allowing Kaeler all kinds of opportunities to hurt Saffron.
Cylvan is a prince of the realm and heir to the throne. Why couldn't/wouldn't he Just smite Kaelen down and be done with it?
The really awkward and oddly portrayed sex scenes
Sex between the MC's continues to read as if the scenes were written by someone who models intimate relations on Cinderella. It's exhausting. If Saffron can pop out with this:
“Fuck!” Saffron hissed for a second time, buckling to his knees and taking cover behind the nearest bush. “Fuck, fuck, fuck—!” He was—right outside the capitol palace in Avren. How? How the fuck—Why—In what stroke of a divine hand—
(And you have to admit, that is a hell of a lot of fucks given), then why can't we have words like "penis" (or some variation) or "blow job" (actually, that feels too modern slang-ish, but some variation would suffice) during a sex scene? Let's face it, sex means inserting tab A into slot B or enclosing tab C with orifice D. If you can't get that explicit, then why even bother having the scene? Half the time I'm not even sure who is doing what to whom, which doesn't make for much passion. It would be so much preferable if the Disney Princess lens was removed when describing sex between these two individuals. It doesn't have to go full tilt erotica, but written the way it is, it just falls flat. If these two are star-crossed lovers and fated mates, destined to fight all manner of danger and peril to be together, at least give the readers something where you can feel their physical connection when they do come together.
That's a lot of criticism . . . and yet, I will continue reading the series because there's such a strong kernel of magic in the both the world that has been created and in the gist of the two MC's and their relationship. I would beg the author to PLEASE get a good editor and allow them to be ruthless in their evaluation of the text before it goes to print. This series has the potential to be 5 stars' worth of genius; it deserves a strong editing to realize that potential.
When I reviewed the first book, I wrote:
I am intrigued by the MC's, but I need some kind of evolution with them. I don't want to continue to read about Saffron being treated in such a continuously brutal manner. I don't want to continue to think the Prince will remain a cardboard villain with no emotional depth, much less a sympathetic character worthy of Saffron's blatant adoration. The character of the Prince could be extremely compelling, but he has to be more "human" at some point (as in, at some point really, really soon).
This book failed all of the above . . . and yet I finished it and will read the next.
Let's start with what I love and what keeps me invested in the series.
The world-building is magnificent. The deeper the story goes, the more complex the world it takes place in becomes, and all of it is captivating. When the author gets something right, they hit it out of the park. It may sound laughable, but my best example would be the pixies. They are described in a way that makes them such a foreign entity - not human, not fey, not animal, but something else entirely. Their relationship with the other characters is fascinating. I almost think of them as being like cats in the way they interact with people and in their behaviors. In the places where they appear in the story, they are such a welcome addition. They are neither good nor bad, benign nor malignant; they just are, and they are fascinating.
The MC's; the bare bones concept of each of the MC's is so great. The author created a dynamic between the two in chapter one of book one that had me thinking this series was going to be utterly stunning. Despite many drawbacks, I am still invested in them, as I keep hoping they will return to the dynamic in book 1, chapter 1.
That's it for the love. Everything else is on the negative side. There's so much that I have an issue with, it isn't even funny. I'm going to list them because honestly, I hope the author reads this and takes it as the feedback it is intended to be - constructive. Because I want to finish this series and I want it to be successful.
The negatives:
Grammar/spelling/missing words - huge, huge issue for me; and believe me, I am no grammar expert. The misfires are so egregious and numerous that they take me right out of the story every time. Here are a few examples:
The brooch clattered from Saffron’s hands, snapping around just as Kaelar stepped into the room
What the author means (I think/hope/believe) is that Saffron is snapping around. Unfortunately, this reads as the if the brooch is snapping around.
Even Kaelar had left in the opposite direction, distracted by something or someone, not giving Saffron a second glance, that Saffron really thought he was losing his mind.
Umm, what does this even mean? Are we to assume Saffron thought he was losing his mind because Kaeler left abruptly? The bit "that Safron really though he was losing his mind" makes no sense as written.
But in that where he walked, that simplicity was not possible.
Again, what does this mean? Is it something like "However, where he walked, such simplicity was just not possible." "But in that where he walked" makes no sense whatsoever.
Cylvan nudged Saffron forward to get started, patting his ass in encouragement and making Saffron yelp and he hurried down the stairs."
"he hurried down the stairs" - WHO hurried down the stairs? There are two "his/he's" in this sentence. I know the author means Saffron, but it could be read as meaning Cylvan.
Perched on the cushioned sill of the inn window, Saffron held his hand through the pane.
That would be a pretty neat trick, putting your hand through a pane of glass. Perhaps what is meant is that Saffron held his hand through the open windowpane?
This is just a smattering of examples. Each time it happens (read: frequently) I have to pause, mentally step back from the flow of the story, and try to figure out what the sentence actually means. This is deadly when you are deeply involved in a book. I was tempted to DNF at so many points; the only reason I kept on is because I am stupidly invested in the two MC's to the point that I need to know what happens to them.
Random insertion of modern slang
The author takes such pains to create this incredible world and then breaks the rhythm and tone by popping in things like "pain in the ass", "shit-eating grin", "piece of cake". The author needs to remain true to the tone of the world they have built. For instance, couldn't it be "a giant grin split his face"? These instances of modern slang are just so jarring and annoying.
The stunted character development of the MC's
This pertains mostly to Cylvan. As I stated in my review of book 1, I wanted to see Cylvan become something more complex and meaningful and truer to the persona we were introduced to in book 1, chapter 1. Apparently this is never going to happen.
Gazing down at him, at his broken prince who continued to mumble under his breath, somehow still perfect despite also so very disheveled
At the time I read this, I made a Kindle note of this line and added this comment: "This has got to be the most useless prince I've ever heard of. Doesn't the guy have some kind power in his own freaking kingdom? Why is his family OK with how he's acting? Why does he have to kowtow to Taran? What happened to the arrogant, ferocious being that Saffron first met in the start of book 1? When did the neutering take place?"
That pretty much covers it. Cylvan is a complete cipher - actually, it would be more accurate to say he's incomplete because I just don't know who he is supposed to be. Is he supposed to be brooding and damaged and toxic? All I get is that he is powerless, ineffective and oblivious. I can't count the number of times in this book where Saffron is in danger/pain and Cylvan, despite being right nearby, sees nothing, hears nothing, and does squat to support/defend Saffron - hell, it would be an improvement if he just effing noticed something was wrong. At one point he states to Saffron:
No one is going to bother us—especially when they see who is with you.
Riiight, because Cylvan has SO much power and influence and knows how to wield it. Only not.
Additionally, Cylvan gets negative bonus points because he can't hold his liquor.
Cylvan approached with a drunken flush in his cheeks just like the others, touching Saffron’s shoulder and asking if he wanted anything for dinner.
This after leaving Saffron outside and at the mercy of whoever might want to use him as a punching bag while Cylvan isn't looking (because he chooses not to and would rather get hammered with his frenemies.) I'm getting tired of scenes where he's drunk. Seriously, get a handle on it dude.
I want to read about the Cylvan from book 1, chapter 1. I want him to be haughty, overbearing, full of all kinds of flaws, but able to overcome what he's trained to be all his life because of Saffron's love and devotion. It can even happen in teeny, tiny baby steps or in a "one step forward, two steps back" kind of way, just as long as it happens. The author has dangled what could be a fantastic character in front of me and I keep trudging along, hoping that character will evolve into what we caught a glimpse of at the start of the series. Shit, I want the Cylvan depicted on the cover of book 1 - strong, fascinating, intimidating. I want to have a love/hate relationship with Cylvan. Instead, it's more of a sustained disbelief and loathing. Not good.
Saffron is actually evolving in terms of growing stronger in his determination and dedication, but it goes sideways because he is such a freaking martyr. We get things like this throughout the book:
That burden was Saffron’s alone to bear.
Why? When did the universe appoint Saffron as supreme savior of all who are oppressed? And as if that isn't bad enough, why the hell does Saffron insist on thinking like this:
He couldn’t ever face Cylvan, knowing what he’d done, how he’d ruined everything because he wasn’t smart enough, strong enough. Worthless—useless—impertinent—selfish—arrogant—
In Saffron's mind, Cyvlan is a perpetual victim who can do no wrong. There's no culpability for Cyvlan's many mistakes and oh my God, Cyvlan suffers so much more than Saffron ever could. (End sarcasm here.) This is infuriating. At this point, I'm starting to hope Saffron throws Cylvan over for Asche, who is already a far more nuanced and gutsy character than his brother.
Why Taran suffers Saffron to continue living AND keep his memories
I do not, NOT, understand why Taran, who is vicious and powerful (and has already killed multiple times) not only keeps Saffron alive, but also allows Saffron and Cylvan be together by themselves for long periods of time. If Taran is really this ruthless bastard, why wouldn't he be smart enough to just kill Saffron and be done with it? The author twists and torques the plot to make Saffron's continued existence and easy access to Cylvan fit in with the story, but it just doesn't. For God's sake, why did it take almost 1,000 pages before
The continuing, ongoing, endless bouts of torture and violence involving Saffron
Early in the book, the torture begins:
Saffron’s finger snapped beneath Cylvan’s strength. He bit back a scream, slumping to his knees as Cylvan finally released him and stepped back.
and doesn't relent at any point. I'm unclear as to why Saffron has to suffer SO much ALL the time; it's like the author delights in thinking up new ways for Saffron to be in pain. It's really overboard. The shackles and collar were bad enough, but then the "veil weights" were added and I wanted to throw up. As a reader, you want to have at least some fleeting glimpses of things getting better. I don't think Game of Thrones even had this much unrelenting pain and torture in it. Can't we move towards depicting peril in a more intellectual way and lighten up on the explicit pain and suffering? If not, at the very least Cylvan needs to become more present and reactive to what Saffron is enduring. If Cyvlan is being restrained from helping Saffron, that's one thing. Cylvan choosing to have a drunken dinner while knowingly leaving Saffron exposed to enemies doesn't work. Actually, I don't even know how the plot can justify Cylvan allowing Kaeler all kinds of opportunities to hurt Saffron.
Cylvan is a prince of the realm and heir to the throne. Why couldn't/wouldn't he Just smite Kaelen down and be done with it?
The really awkward and oddly portrayed sex scenes
Sex between the MC's continues to read as if the scenes were written by someone who models intimate relations on Cinderella. It's exhausting. If Saffron can pop out with this:
“Fuck!” Saffron hissed for a second time, buckling to his knees and taking cover behind the nearest bush. “Fuck, fuck, fuck—!” He was—right outside the capitol palace in Avren. How? How the fuck—Why—In what stroke of a divine hand—
(And you have to admit, that is a hell of a lot of fucks given), then why can't we have words like "penis" (or some variation) or "blow job" (actually, that feels too modern slang-ish, but some variation would suffice) during a sex scene? Let's face it, sex means inserting tab A into slot B or enclosing tab C with orifice D. If you can't get that explicit, then why even bother having the scene? Half the time I'm not even sure who is doing what to whom, which doesn't make for much passion. It would be so much preferable if the Disney Princess lens was removed when describing sex between these two individuals. It doesn't have to go full tilt erotica, but written the way it is, it just falls flat. If these two are star-crossed lovers and fated mates, destined to fight all manner of danger and peril to be together, at least give the readers something where you can feel their physical connection when they do come together.
That's a lot of criticism . . . and yet, I will continue reading the series because there's such a strong kernel of magic in the both the world that has been created and in the gist of the two MC's and their relationship. I would beg the author to PLEASE get a good editor and allow them to be ruthless in their evaluation of the text before it goes to print. This series has the potential to be 5 stars' worth of genius; it deserves a strong editing to realize that potential.
December 16, 2022
3.5
“Until the thine bones return to mud ; call yourself, rowan blood.
Exchanging a look, a hand, a kiss ; whichever you choose, share in your bliss…
Devour the flesh, the root of the other ; breath to breath, exchange your charter…
Into the mounds the way you came ; stripped of your magic, both the same. ”
Segunda parte de Rowan Blood. Este libro me lo he leído en su idioma original y cuenta con un nivel B2 (intermedio alto). Añadir también que cuenta con vocabulario especifico de la novela, de naturaleza y del mundo feérico y, por último, pero no por ello menos importante también cuenta con lenguaje inclusivo.
“Rowan spirit, are you searching with me ? Come soon. I’m tired of delivering on my own. I need to rest”.
No tengo mucho que decir de esta obra más de lo que ya he dicho en su primera entrega. Intentaré ser lo más concisa y breve posible:
Me ha gustado mucho más que el anterior, sobre todo por teniendo en cuenta y los giros de la trama. Ha habido momentos que me han tenido en vilo y obligado a leer más lento y disfrutar de la lectura mientras que otros se me han hecho innecesarios.
“He will be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods”.
La ambientación me sigue pareciendo buena y se nota que se ha hecho una investigación al respecto, pero me sigue faltando profundidad en bastantes aspectos sobre todo en los personajes los cuales son carismáticos, entrañables pero un poco planos.
Tengo ganas de más libros de este mundo pero tengo que esperar hasta el año que viene.
“All of Afidel will learn exactly what it means to despair beneath my Night Court”.
“Until the thine bones return to mud ; call yourself, rowan blood.
Exchanging a look, a hand, a kiss ; whichever you choose, share in your bliss…
Devour the flesh, the root of the other ; breath to breath, exchange your charter…
Into the mounds the way you came ; stripped of your magic, both the same. ”
Segunda parte de Rowan Blood. Este libro me lo he leído en su idioma original y cuenta con un nivel B2 (intermedio alto). Añadir también que cuenta con vocabulario especifico de la novela, de naturaleza y del mundo feérico y, por último, pero no por ello menos importante también cuenta con lenguaje inclusivo.
“Rowan spirit, are you searching with me ? Come soon. I’m tired of delivering on my own. I need to rest”.
No tengo mucho que decir de esta obra más de lo que ya he dicho en su primera entrega. Intentaré ser lo más concisa y breve posible:
Me ha gustado mucho más que el anterior, sobre todo por teniendo en cuenta y los giros de la trama. Ha habido momentos que me han tenido en vilo y obligado a leer más lento y disfrutar de la lectura mientras que otros se me han hecho innecesarios.
“He will be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods”.
La ambientación me sigue pareciendo buena y se nota que se ha hecho una investigación al respecto, pero me sigue faltando profundidad en bastantes aspectos sobre todo en los personajes los cuales son carismáticos, entrañables pero un poco planos.
Tengo ganas de más libros de este mundo pero tengo que esperar hasta el año que viene.
“All of Afidel will learn exactly what it means to despair beneath my Night Court”.
October 3, 2022
I was lucky enough to recieve an ARC of LOSA from the author, and oh my God. I've been looking forward to the second installment of the Rowan Blood series since the last page of POTS.
This book had me in an absolute death grip. I don't think I've been this anxious while reading in a long time, which is fine, because I think it says a lot about the ability of an author to be able to draw out such big emotions. The amount of gut wrenching scenes had me ready to chuck my e-reader across the room, not to mention the ending ONCE AGAIN had me sweating, wondering what's going to happen next. I am SUCH a sucker for that "I would do whatever it takes" dynamic, coupled with all of the lore and world building in this series has me hooked. I can't wait to bully everyone I know into reading it.
This book had me in an absolute death grip. I don't think I've been this anxious while reading in a long time, which is fine, because I think it says a lot about the ability of an author to be able to draw out such big emotions. The amount of gut wrenching scenes had me ready to chuck my e-reader across the room, not to mention the ending ONCE AGAIN had me sweating, wondering what's going to happen next. I am SUCH a sucker for that "I would do whatever it takes" dynamic, coupled with all of the lore and world building in this series has me hooked. I can't wait to bully everyone I know into reading it.
October 16, 2022
[03/10/2022] I’ll write a proper review once I stop crying. Feels like I’ve been holding my breath since page one and now that is over somehow I’m holding my breath even more? What the fuck Kellen :’)
Okay, I think I can do this now.
Prince of the Sorrows entered my life in April and instantly became my most profound obsession and the specialest of special interests. The Rowan Blood universe is the air the I breathe and I couldn’t wait to read the sequel, hoping it would heal the wounds that fateful epilogue had caused. Oh boy, was I wrong.
Just as Prince of the Sorrows is the perfect introduction to a series, with charming characters and an intriguing plot that has you on a chokehold from the very beginning, Lord of Silver Ashes couldn’t be more perfect as a sequel. It delivers on delicious angsty longing, expertly crafted worldbuilding and unexpected twists to keep you on your toes. With amazing new character additions, even more drama for Saffron to try and solve by himself (smartest dumbest person ever) and with the prettiest prose to last for days, I think it’s safe to say Lord of Silver Ashes managed to outdo its predecessor, something I didn’t think was possible.
I used to think Prince of the Sorrows was a sad book and now I’m convinced it’s actually a comfort read. The amount of HURT/(no)comfort in LOSA and the incredible plot made this one of the most intense reading experiences I’ve ever had, it felt like I was holding my breath from the very first page until long after I finished reading. It was to give me the hardest book hangover of the season in the best of ways: I finished the book in two days and proceeded to spend the following week just thinking about what I just read, the nuances of each event and daydreaming about what volume 3 might bring next year. I can’t wait to see what Kellen has in store for the Rowan Blood universe and its characters, and I’m so grateful for the privilege of being part of this journey.
Thank you so much Kellen for this ARC, it destroyed my life <3 /pos
Might edit this after the book comes out with some spoilers, because I'll most definitely reread it and have another breakdown :') I love this series so much omg
Okay, I think I can do this now.
“He would be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods.”
Prince of the Sorrows entered my life in April and instantly became my most profound obsession and the specialest of special interests. The Rowan Blood universe is the air the I breathe and I couldn’t wait to read the sequel, hoping it would heal the wounds that fateful epilogue had caused. Oh boy, was I wrong.
Just as Prince of the Sorrows is the perfect introduction to a series, with charming characters and an intriguing plot that has you on a chokehold from the very beginning, Lord of Silver Ashes couldn’t be more perfect as a sequel. It delivers on delicious angsty longing, expertly crafted worldbuilding and unexpected twists to keep you on your toes. With amazing new character additions, even more drama for Saffron to try and solve by himself (smartest dumbest person ever) and with the prettiest prose to last for days, I think it’s safe to say Lord of Silver Ashes managed to outdo its predecessor, something I didn’t think was possible.
I used to think Prince of the Sorrows was a sad book and now I’m convinced it’s actually a comfort read. The amount of HURT/(no)comfort in LOSA and the incredible plot made this one of the most intense reading experiences I’ve ever had, it felt like I was holding my breath from the very first page until long after I finished reading. It was to give me the hardest book hangover of the season in the best of ways: I finished the book in two days and proceeded to spend the following week just thinking about what I just read, the nuances of each event and daydreaming about what volume 3 might bring next year. I can’t wait to see what Kellen has in store for the Rowan Blood universe and its characters, and I’m so grateful for the privilege of being part of this journey.
Thank you so much Kellen for this ARC, it destroyed my life <3 /pos
Might edit this after the book comes out with some spoilers, because I'll most definitely reread it and have another breakdown :') I love this series so much omg
April 5, 2023
DNFing at 52%
It has taken me two weeks to read about 250 pages. I really wanted to like this as I did enjoy the first book but I am having a terrible time and don't want to be reading this anymore. All this book is doing is frustrating me.
The entire premise of this book doesn't make sense. When the last book ended with Saffron basically being turned into a slave and kept in the house, I was a bit confused. It didn't really make sense to me, but I assumed I was just misunderstanding and it would make sense once I read this one. It doesn't. The set-up is that Taran decided to keep Saffron around to go look for fruit, apparently, I guess. As if he couldn't just snatch another human to do it? Why specifically Saffron? I still don't entirely get what the fruit will do. Make Cylvan do whatever Taran wants? Apparently?
Anyways. So Taran is keeping Saffron in the attic of the house that he and Cylvan live in. And convinces Cylvan that actually Saffron was executed while he just kept Saffron in the attic for two weeks and basically did nothing with him. But then Taran went "haha just kidding, Saffron wasn't executed, we just wiped his memories." Why did Taran lie about that? What reason does Taran have for that? The only reason Taran did it is so Graves can write more angst. That's it. It makes no sense, in universe, for Taran to keep Saffron around and make him pretend like he has no memories.
And then Saffron does it! He pretends he doesn't have memories! He goes along with it! I know Taran threatened him and his family but I barely buy the threat. Especially when Saffron could have just told Cylvan and Cylvan, you know, the prince, could have put an end to it. Taran does not outrank Cylvan. If it had been the other way around - if Taran was the prince and Cylvan was just a noble - then okay, fine, I'd get it. But literally the entire "plot" of this book would have ended if Saffron had told Cylvan what was going on. And his reasons for not telling Cylvan are so stupid and it's entirely so we can have this "angst" of Saffron and Cylvan being unable to be together.
So the set-up of this book was already frustrating enough but then this book is just so painfully long with barely anything happening. Basically the book goes; Saffron makes a stupid choice and keeps Cylvan in the dark. Taran or Kaelar are sadistic to Saffron because their only personality traits are that they're sadistic. Trauma porn happens. Cylvan comforts Saffron. Rinse and repeat. Seriously though the level of trauma porn in this book is absurd. Saffron physically can't speak because he's got a magic collar on that chokes him if he tries. Saffron gets locked in a box for hours. Saffron gets his leg broken. Saffron gets forced to wear essentially a gag in public. Saffron watches a witch get burned. I get some people like hurt/comfort but this is just absurd. Enough. Enough!
There is the suggestion of a plot besides torturing Saffron in that apparently human magic is super duper illegal and Saffron is trying to learn more of it to protect his family who are in trouble for doing super duper illegal human magic. So we get Saffron trying to learn about what this magic is. Does he do any magic? Not up to the point I got, literally half way through the book. Instead we get this slow trickle of information in between Saffron getting tortured.
The final straw for me was the bookshop burning. They got to a bookstore, and Saffron meets another witch who's super kind to him and just gives him books for free. So obviously guards conveniently and immediately swarm into the store, know she's a witch, easily catch her, and then light her on fire out in the middle of the street. The guards then have Cylvan light the bookstore on fire. Yes, yes, it's so traumatic and upsetting. But see here's the thing. That's not how book-burnings go, if you want to use the horrific imagery. You see, what would make more sense is the guards go in, search the bookstore, find the books that are to be burned, put them into a pile outside, and then burn them. Why am I having an issue with this? You don't just light a building on fire! Especially if it's next to other buildings! That is how you burn down an entire town! I just can't suspend my disbelief that the guards and prince would be like "Yeah sure let's risk every single building nearby for this." Fuck your shock value. A book burning still would have been just as upsetting without being breathtakingly stupid.
It also made me realize I kind of hate Cylvan actually. How am I supposed to root for a romance with him when he doesn't stand up to any of the horrific oppression Saffron faces? He lets Taran and Kaelar treat Saffron like shit, with only minor retaliation. Oh sure he comforts Saffron after, what a knight in shining armor. How the hell did the prince not go, 'no don't burn the building down. Search it first.' He just lets this shit happen. I get wanting to keep up appearances and such but there are ways to do it without basically giving up his entire moral compass. He is a part of the oppressive system and is not only allowing the oppression to continue but actively participating in it.
I'd say if you like fanfiction and hurt/comfort you'd probably like this. Because boy did this sure feel like fanfiction to me and I don't mean that as a compliment.
I really do hate to bash on an indie trans author. I really wanted to enjoy this. But I've also been in a terrible reading slump and this is actively making my slump worse. I was trying to push through it but in writing my review I realized just how much I truly disliked this book, unfortunately.
It has taken me two weeks to read about 250 pages. I really wanted to like this as I did enjoy the first book but I am having a terrible time and don't want to be reading this anymore. All this book is doing is frustrating me.
The entire premise of this book doesn't make sense. When the last book ended with Saffron basically being turned into a slave and kept in the house, I was a bit confused. It didn't really make sense to me, but I assumed I was just misunderstanding and it would make sense once I read this one. It doesn't. The set-up is that Taran decided to keep Saffron around to go look for fruit, apparently, I guess. As if he couldn't just snatch another human to do it? Why specifically Saffron? I still don't entirely get what the fruit will do. Make Cylvan do whatever Taran wants? Apparently?
Anyways. So Taran is keeping Saffron in the attic of the house that he and Cylvan live in. And convinces Cylvan that actually Saffron was executed while he just kept Saffron in the attic for two weeks and basically did nothing with him. But then Taran went "haha just kidding, Saffron wasn't executed, we just wiped his memories." Why did Taran lie about that? What reason does Taran have for that? The only reason Taran did it is so Graves can write more angst. That's it. It makes no sense, in universe, for Taran to keep Saffron around and make him pretend like he has no memories.
And then Saffron does it! He pretends he doesn't have memories! He goes along with it! I know Taran threatened him and his family but I barely buy the threat. Especially when Saffron could have just told Cylvan and Cylvan, you know, the prince, could have put an end to it. Taran does not outrank Cylvan. If it had been the other way around - if Taran was the prince and Cylvan was just a noble - then okay, fine, I'd get it. But literally the entire "plot" of this book would have ended if Saffron had told Cylvan what was going on. And his reasons for not telling Cylvan are so stupid and it's entirely so we can have this "angst" of Saffron and Cylvan being unable to be together.
So the set-up of this book was already frustrating enough but then this book is just so painfully long with barely anything happening. Basically the book goes; Saffron makes a stupid choice and keeps Cylvan in the dark. Taran or Kaelar are sadistic to Saffron because their only personality traits are that they're sadistic. Trauma porn happens. Cylvan comforts Saffron. Rinse and repeat. Seriously though the level of trauma porn in this book is absurd. Saffron physically can't speak because he's got a magic collar on that chokes him if he tries. Saffron gets locked in a box for hours. Saffron gets his leg broken. Saffron gets forced to wear essentially a gag in public. Saffron watches a witch get burned. I get some people like hurt/comfort but this is just absurd. Enough. Enough!
There is the suggestion of a plot besides torturing Saffron in that apparently human magic is super duper illegal and Saffron is trying to learn more of it to protect his family who are in trouble for doing super duper illegal human magic. So we get Saffron trying to learn about what this magic is. Does he do any magic? Not up to the point I got, literally half way through the book. Instead we get this slow trickle of information in between Saffron getting tortured.
The final straw for me was the bookshop burning. They got to a bookstore, and Saffron meets another witch who's super kind to him and just gives him books for free. So obviously guards conveniently and immediately swarm into the store, know she's a witch, easily catch her, and then light her on fire out in the middle of the street. The guards then have Cylvan light the bookstore on fire. Yes, yes, it's so traumatic and upsetting. But see here's the thing. That's not how book-burnings go, if you want to use the horrific imagery. You see, what would make more sense is the guards go in, search the bookstore, find the books that are to be burned, put them into a pile outside, and then burn them. Why am I having an issue with this? You don't just light a building on fire! Especially if it's next to other buildings! That is how you burn down an entire town! I just can't suspend my disbelief that the guards and prince would be like "Yeah sure let's risk every single building nearby for this." Fuck your shock value. A book burning still would have been just as upsetting without being breathtakingly stupid.
It also made me realize I kind of hate Cylvan actually. How am I supposed to root for a romance with him when he doesn't stand up to any of the horrific oppression Saffron faces? He lets Taran and Kaelar treat Saffron like shit, with only minor retaliation. Oh sure he comforts Saffron after, what a knight in shining armor. How the hell did the prince not go, 'no don't burn the building down. Search it first.' He just lets this shit happen. I get wanting to keep up appearances and such but there are ways to do it without basically giving up his entire moral compass. He is a part of the oppressive system and is not only allowing the oppression to continue but actively participating in it.
I'd say if you like fanfiction and hurt/comfort you'd probably like this. Because boy did this sure feel like fanfiction to me and I don't mean that as a compliment.
I really do hate to bash on an indie trans author. I really wanted to enjoy this. But I've also been in a terrible reading slump and this is actively making my slump worse. I was trying to push through it but in writing my review I realized just how much I truly disliked this book, unfortunately.
October 12, 2022
Just finished my Arc^_^ thank u Kellen !
This book is a roller coaster of emotions i went from curious to excited to sad to happy to angry to swooning to even more angry to sobbing to what the F.
CAN EVERYONE JUST LEAVE SAFFRON ALONE ! 🔪 srsly bouta throw hands
All he wants to do is be a supreme witch power bottom
Needless to say if u loved book 1 you have to continue the series to see what our babes are up to !
This book is a roller coaster of emotions i went from curious to excited to sad to happy to angry to swooning to even more angry to sobbing to what the F.
CAN EVERYONE JUST LEAVE SAFFRON ALONE ! 🔪 srsly bouta throw hands
All he wants to do is be a supreme witch power bottom
Needless to say if u loved book 1 you have to continue the series to see what our babes are up to !
December 30, 2022
Ugh, I hate self-sacrificing idiots, and so far the book is not living up to the expectations after the first one ended on such a high note. Fingers crossed 🤞
Annoying cliches moving the plot? Check. Lack of communication between protagonists because one just has to protect the other without his knowledge of course, stupid misunderstanding based on absolutely nothing? Check. Empty threats compelling protagonist do dumb stuff? Check. The evil guy being cliche-y evil to the point of being ridiculous? Check. Pointless violence as a plot device? Check. Building up to the big resolution only to leave the reader with nothing other than “it is all magically alright all of a sudden”? Ugh. The story got soooooo annoying. 3 stars. Less yo-yoing and pointless drama, would have made a better book.
P.S. And can please someone explain to me how we got from the world where being an iron (rowan) witch was considered an unspeakable crime for which at least one person was very publicly and torturously burned alive (yay detailed descriptions. not) on the street and fey prince stating several times that anyone caught practicing human magic would be killed along with anyone they knew to the said crown prince declaring a rowan witch his fiancé and everyone being perfectly fine with that and going along without a single peep? Whaaaaa? Did something change? Other than “I will marry whoever I wish” I have not noticed a single thing justifying such an abrupt change of course…
Still, will hang around for Book 3. Hoping for plot improvements.
Annoying cliches moving the plot? Check. Lack of communication between protagonists because one just has to protect the other without his knowledge of course, stupid misunderstanding based on absolutely nothing? Check. Empty threats compelling protagonist do dumb stuff? Check. The evil guy being cliche-y evil to the point of being ridiculous? Check. Pointless violence as a plot device? Check. Building up to the big resolution only to leave the reader with nothing other than “it is all magically alright all of a sudden”? Ugh. The story got soooooo annoying. 3 stars. Less yo-yoing and pointless drama, would have made a better book.
P.S. And can please someone explain to me how we got from the world where being an iron (rowan) witch was considered an unspeakable crime for which at least one person was very publicly and torturously burned alive (yay detailed descriptions. not) on the street and fey prince stating several times that anyone caught practicing human magic would be killed along with anyone they knew to the said crown prince declaring a rowan witch his fiancé and everyone being perfectly fine with that and going along without a single peep? Whaaaaa? Did something change? Other than “I will marry whoever I wish” I have not noticed a single thing justifying such an abrupt change of course…
Still, will hang around for Book 3. Hoping for plot improvements.
July 2, 2025
I didn't enjoy this one as much as book 1 but to be fair, book 1 left some big shoes to fill. I feel like there was just alot of meandering in this book lol. also this is probably on me but I kept getting the side characters confused with one another 💀. I really hope Cylvan goes through some more character development in this one. I feel like he only existed to hype saffrons character development in this one. knowing that this book series is supposed to be long, I really wish these two were more of a slow burn. but the world is really fun and the lore is really interesting. I like where the story is going and I'm intrigued to continue on.
February 3, 2025
if saffron has no fans, i am dead. if cylvan has no fans- well, im just fine. 😇
November 9, 2022
This was the most incredible adventure I’ve read! I can only say that I’m in awe and will probably be until next book!
I’ll probably be more eloquent in a few days to write all the wonderful things this book means to me🖤
Edit: I'm not ready yet but here goes. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
I love it, love it, love it!
These books are perfect and they will in #1 in my top 5 of 2022 ! Besides the incredible story , Kellen also gives us incredible art from this couple that warms my heart! Saffron+Cylvan=<3
The Lord of Silver Ashes starts in the attic right after the traumatic events of the Prince of Sorrows.
It was the most challenging, satisfying, euphoric, angst, adorable, romantic, brave, altruistic, infuriating, magical, surprising journey and it left me wanting more... of course! It ends with an HFN but with the promise of much more and the spring of 2023 is too far away....
Once again I felt, smelled, tasted, saw and heard every moment of this book. All the descriptions are so rich and detailed that I swear I'm in those woods, in those parties, in that academic, in those ruins and in the ecstasy of faerie fruits! On the other hand I feel all the meanness they do to our cinnamon roll, please LEAVE SAFFRON ALONE!
There are so many plot twists, so much incredible information that tells us that the world that Kellen created for us, we almost don't deserve it!
I don't really know what to do... hibernate, reread, or stay in the fetal position until the next book! I still haven't decided :)
I’ll probably be more eloquent in a few days to write all the wonderful things this book means to me🖤
Edit: I'm not ready yet but here goes. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
I love it, love it, love it!
These books are perfect and they will in #1 in my top 5 of 2022 ! Besides the incredible story , Kellen also gives us incredible art from this couple that warms my heart! Saffron+Cylvan=<3
The Lord of Silver Ashes starts in the attic right after the traumatic events of the Prince of Sorrows.
It was the most challenging, satisfying, euphoric, angst, adorable, romantic, brave, altruistic, infuriating, magical, surprising journey and it left me wanting more... of course! It ends with an HFN but with the promise of much more and the spring of 2023 is too far away....
Once again I felt, smelled, tasted, saw and heard every moment of this book. All the descriptions are so rich and detailed that I swear I'm in those woods, in those parties, in that academic, in those ruins and in the ecstasy of faerie fruits! On the other hand I feel all the meanness they do to our cinnamon roll, please LEAVE SAFFRON ALONE!
There are so many plot twists, so much incredible information that tells us that the world that Kellen created for us, we almost don't deserve it!
I don't really know what to do... hibernate, reread, or stay in the fetal position until the next book! I still haven't decided :)
April 16, 2023
He will be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods.
Whereas #1 Prince of the Sorrows was the perfect introduction to the Rowan Blood series, #2 Lord of Silver Ashes sadly didn't deliver. I was expecting much more cunning and way higher stakes. All this book managed to do was leave me frustrated and disappointed...
What I liked:
- The worldbuilding was as magnificent as in Prince of the Sorrows (I mean, I'm simply obsessed with the pixies, they're such a fascinating species and their behaviour always felt mesmerising and ethereal)
- The way magic works in this universe:
What almost had me not finish this book:
- Most of the plot made absolutely no sense: why would Taran allow Saffron and Cylvan to be together so often and for so long? Why wouldn't he choose another beantighe to do his bidding? Honestly, too many things happened at once...
- The way torture, both physical and psychological, was solely used for shock value Also Saffron being treated in such a continuously brutal manner was deeply annoying, there wasn't a fun moment to enjoy because I couldn't stop thinking about what would go wrong
- The lack of communication between the two protagonists
- Ending every other chapter with Saffron asking himself half a dozen ~deep questions didn't make the plot more interesting
- The many grammar/spelling mistakes that made me stop reading to try and understand what the author meant
- The modern slang peppered throughout such sophisticated writing
- The total absence of character development of the main characters: by the end of Lord of Silver Ashes, I couldn't recall a single plot twist that made either Saffron or Cylvan grow
Whereas #1 Prince of the Sorrows was the perfect introduction to the Rowan Blood series, #2 Lord of Silver Ashes sadly didn't deliver. I was expecting much more cunning and way higher stakes. All this book managed to do was leave me frustrated and disappointed...
What I liked:
- The worldbuilding was as magnificent as in Prince of the Sorrows (I mean, I'm simply obsessed with the pixies, they're such a fascinating species and their behaviour always felt mesmerising and ethereal)
- The way magic works in this universe:
What almost had me not finish this book:
- Most of the plot made absolutely no sense: why would Taran allow Saffron and Cylvan to be together so often and for so long? Why wouldn't he choose another beantighe to do his bidding? Honestly, too many things happened at once...
- The way torture, both physical and psychological, was solely used for shock value Also Saffron being treated in such a continuously brutal manner was deeply annoying, there wasn't a fun moment to enjoy because I couldn't stop thinking about what would go wrong
- The lack of communication between the two protagonists
- Ending every other chapter with Saffron asking himself half a dozen ~deep questions didn't make the plot more interesting
- The many grammar/spelling mistakes that made me stop reading to try and understand what the author meant
- The modern slang peppered throughout such sophisticated writing
- The total absence of character development of the main characters: by the end of Lord of Silver Ashes, I couldn't recall a single plot twist that made either Saffron or Cylvan grow
October 5, 2022
I don’t know were to start; I had great expectations for this 2nd book. I have to say it those expectations had nothing on this book, it’s surpassed everything I was hoping to read.
We continue the story after the events from book one.
Saffron trying to save Cylvan from the evil hands of Taran.
Again the world building gets better and makes the story even more intriguing,more fascinating. To the point; that again I couldn’t,wouldn’t put the book down I just had to know what was going to happen next.
It had me at the edge of my seat the entire time! The story plot gets even more developed and we learn more of the fey world and magic system. We meet new characters that make the story more interesting.
The ending!!
Now I can’t wait to see how the story will continue.
The angst, the pinning, the heartache will have you at the edge of your seat. If you enjoy the first book you will love this one! (I just finished the book and already want to read it again) can’t wait to have the physical copy!
I will end this with my THANKS to the Author Kellen Graves for giving the chance to read the eArc. Thank you very much can’t wait to continue saffrons and Cylvans story in future books!
We continue the story after the events from book one.
Saffron trying to save Cylvan from the evil hands of Taran.
Again the world building gets better and makes the story even more intriguing,more fascinating. To the point; that again I couldn’t,wouldn’t put the book down I just had to know what was going to happen next.
It had me at the edge of my seat the entire time! The story plot gets even more developed and we learn more of the fey world and magic system. We meet new characters that make the story more interesting.
The ending!!
Now I can’t wait to see how the story will continue.
The angst, the pinning, the heartache will have you at the edge of your seat. If you enjoy the first book you will love this one! (I just finished the book and already want to read it again) can’t wait to have the physical copy!
I will end this with my THANKS to the Author Kellen Graves for giving the chance to read the eArc. Thank you very much can’t wait to continue saffrons and Cylvans story in future books!
March 1, 2025
Reread 2/27/2025: Still one of my favorite emotional reads. Pair it with a romantic/dramatic instrumental playlist to get the full effect.
Reread 9/19/2024: I don’t reread and annotate a lot of books, but I definitely did for this perfection. I love the pining and angst so much, and the DRAMA. THE MAGIC. I’m already plotting how to get more special editions of this series.
Angst: 5/5 hurts so good
Spice: 3/5
Reread 9/19/2024: I don’t reread and annotate a lot of books, but I definitely did for this perfection. I love the pining and angst so much, and the DRAMA. THE MAGIC. I’m already plotting how to get more special editions of this series.
Angst: 5/5 hurts so good
Spice: 3/5
October 6, 2022
Overall: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot and themes: 5/5
Book Review: I was lucky enough to receive an eARC from the author, and I am very thankful for it. I am OBSESSED with this book! When I got the email, I LEGITIMATELY threw my phone and screamed. I had expectations for this book, obviously, and it completely blew me away! It was so much better than I could've ever expected! The writing, the plot, the heartache, everything about this book is incredible! I can't believe that a book I started because I thought it was just trashy Fae smut caused this much, but here we are.
The characters are just so REAL. Saffron and Cylvan are so well written, I felt like I was going through everything with them! You know a book is well written when it sucks you in completely, but this was so much more. I was GENUINLEY stressed! Towards the end I was so incredibly stressed that I was sweating, thinking "what's going to happen?" THAT'S how you know a book is good. Plus, THE ENDING. I will never recover.
I had so much emotional whiplash! Like the last book, every time something good happened it got ruined by something bad happening. It got to the point that every time Saffron and Cylvan were happy together, I would get super stressed over what was gonna happen next. Ugh, I'm so obsessed with this book.
Saffron and Cylvan are THE couple. No one compares. They're so WHOLESOME. They're ADORABLE. I absolutely love them. Cylvan is just so sweet and caring, I love him so much. We got to see a bit more of Cylvan's dorky side in this book, which I was very happy about (the ribbit scene lives in my head rent free). I also have a new favorite character, and I can't wait till the book is released so I can talk about them. I know that once the book is released, I will be rereading it so I can bookmark all my favorite parts!
If you're thinking about starting this series, don't hesitate! You'll start it for the romance but stay for the plot. Can't wait for the next book!
Characters: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot and themes: 5/5
Book Review: I was lucky enough to receive an eARC from the author, and I am very thankful for it. I am OBSESSED with this book! When I got the email, I LEGITIMATELY threw my phone and screamed. I had expectations for this book, obviously, and it completely blew me away! It was so much better than I could've ever expected! The writing, the plot, the heartache, everything about this book is incredible! I can't believe that a book I started because I thought it was just trashy Fae smut caused this much, but here we are.
The characters are just so REAL. Saffron and Cylvan are so well written, I felt like I was going through everything with them! You know a book is well written when it sucks you in completely, but this was so much more. I was GENUINLEY stressed! Towards the end I was so incredibly stressed that I was sweating, thinking "what's going to happen?" THAT'S how you know a book is good. Plus, THE ENDING. I will never recover.
I had so much emotional whiplash! Like the last book, every time something good happened it got ruined by something bad happening. It got to the point that every time Saffron and Cylvan were happy together, I would get super stressed over what was gonna happen next. Ugh, I'm so obsessed with this book.
Saffron and Cylvan are THE couple. No one compares. They're so WHOLESOME. They're ADORABLE. I absolutely love them. Cylvan is just so sweet and caring, I love him so much. We got to see a bit more of Cylvan's dorky side in this book, which I was very happy about (the ribbit scene lives in my head rent free). I also have a new favorite character, and I can't wait till the book is released so I can talk about them. I know that once the book is released, I will be rereading it so I can bookmark all my favorite parts!
If you're thinking about starting this series, don't hesitate! You'll start it for the romance but stay for the plot. Can't wait for the next book!
May 18, 2025
Ooooooooof what a ride!!!!
I think I preferred book one a smidge more (there's only so much "Cylvan is perfect and I don't deserve him so I'll sacrifice my health, happiness and life for him even though he's a powerful fey and the future king and he should be the one protecting me instead and also grovelling because he's a royal douchebag" I can take 😭) but I love this universe and I love Saffron, even though I desperately want him to SAVE HIMSELF FOR ONCE IN HIS LIFE. Yeah, I know, he's so kind and his self-sacrificing schtick is part of him, BUT 😭 Saffron was put through literal hell here!!!!! It was CRUEL.
I do enjoy Saffron and Cylvan together, and I think I'll slowly start loving them more in the next books. I spent the first 65% of the novel wanting to murder Cylvan and begging Saffron to dump him, but thankfully Cylvan managed to win over some points by finally helping Saffron out and apologizing and being a dreamboat and kicking Kaeler down, so all good 👍🏻 Cylvan can live for now, although I'm expecting some major grovelling still and Saffron being treated and cared for like the literal angel he is 🩷
The plot got a smidge confusing at times, and (I blame my reading slump for this) the world-building was a bit complex to follow too. Lots of long wordy descriptions (yeah, it's a fantasy Iz???????????????! What did you expect 😭) that I skimmed, because again, I'm in a major reading slump and my brain has decided to rebel against me. But that aside!!!!! I'm really enjoying this, and I love the side characters so so so much. Asche is the CUTEST, and I hope they get lots and lots of page time.
That ending was freaking epic! I'm VERY intrigued and very curious to read the next installment.
TWs/CWs: sexual harassment and implied attempted SA, abusive toxic relationship, violence, murder, death, coercion, injury, genocide and genocidal politics.
I think I preferred book one a smidge more (there's only so much "Cylvan is perfect and I don't deserve him so I'll sacrifice my health, happiness and life for him even though he's a powerful fey and the future king and he should be the one protecting me instead and also grovelling because he's a royal douchebag" I can take 😭) but I love this universe and I love Saffron, even though I desperately want him to SAVE HIMSELF FOR ONCE IN HIS LIFE. Yeah, I know, he's so kind and his self-sacrificing schtick is part of him, BUT 😭 Saffron was put through literal hell here!!!!! It was CRUEL.
I do enjoy Saffron and Cylvan together, and I think I'll slowly start loving them more in the next books. I spent the first 65% of the novel wanting to murder Cylvan and begging Saffron to dump him, but thankfully Cylvan managed to win over some points by finally helping Saffron out and apologizing and being a dreamboat and kicking Kaeler down, so all good 👍🏻 Cylvan can live for now, although I'm expecting some major grovelling still and Saffron being treated and cared for like the literal angel he is 🩷
The plot got a smidge confusing at times, and (I blame my reading slump for this) the world-building was a bit complex to follow too. Lots of long wordy descriptions (yeah, it's a fantasy Iz???????????????! What did you expect 😭) that I skimmed, because again, I'm in a major reading slump and my brain has decided to rebel against me. But that aside!!!!! I'm really enjoying this, and I love the side characters so so so much. Asche is the CUTEST, and I hope they get lots and lots of page time.
That ending was freaking epic! I'm VERY intrigued and very curious to read the next installment.
TWs/CWs: sexual harassment and implied attempted SA, abusive toxic relationship, violence, murder, death, coercion, injury, genocide and genocidal politics.
July 29, 2025
Book 1: Big scary Prince of the Night court, "The High Crown Prince of Alfidel, who would eventually become King, who would pass laws and have his hands kissed and live for centuries and go down in history in name and legacy ..."
Book 2: Poor baby needing to be sheltered (from the fae who are his subjects?! Where the heck are his fathers, the kings, anyway?!) "Saffron was terrified. He was terrified to witness this person he held in his arms break down into pieces again."
SO: the human SLAVE spends the entire novel lying to the person he loves, because he supposedly needs to protect the Fae Prince, you know, the one with all the power and magic. And this obviously blows up in Saffron's face, which would have been touching if I didn't think "well duh." There were SO MANY times where it was obvious at this point any rational person would tell the truth. It drove me crazy. Not a fan where one character is needlessly self sacrificing!
The second issue is this is obviously self published. The idea behind the novels - that humans have equal magic with and over Fae, that a Fae King loving a human therefore frightens his subjects - is really neat and *could be brilliant* with the ruthless editor to pare away the needless repetition and frankly silly plot hijinks. It truly reads like fanfiction as if the author were writing it as they went along and never went back to tighten the story. [Huge shout out that the world Graves envisions is awesome - I'm totally invested in the magic part of the novel!!]
Finally, lots of things don't make sense. The ending of the first novel didn't make sense at the time and this novel didn't explain. Why keep Saffron alive? Why not read his memories to start with? Why does Cylvan not do something about the cuffs - you're the prince FFS! Just say you want the slave? (On that thought, if he's Kaelar's silken-beantighe, why does Kaelar not take his lord's privilege?) For a slave the villains are supposedly worried about Saffron seems to have a lot of free time.
Anyway, I am actually really interested in the Rowan Witch / Wolf Murder plots; the romance was rather lacking this novel, which is not surprising since Saffron was lying to Cylvan most of the time. [Not much character growth.] Saffron is growing in Arid power. And while not dying for the next book I am I going to continue to read these.
A fabulous review by Jane
I am Cylvan's divine mercy," Saffron declared viciously. "And the sun you flew to close to."
"This is the person I choose as my fiancé," Cylvan declared, tucking a piece of hair from Saffron's eyes ... "And should my future Harmonious King die before dawn all of Alfiel will learn exactly what it means to despair beneath my Night Court."
A summary because as I read the #3 I am having a hard time remembering what is going on:
Book 2: Poor baby needing to be sheltered (from the fae who are his subjects?! Where the heck are his fathers, the kings, anyway?!) "Saffron was terrified. He was terrified to witness this person he held in his arms break down into pieces again."
SO: the human SLAVE spends the entire novel lying to the person he loves, because he supposedly needs to protect the Fae Prince, you know, the one with all the power and magic. And this obviously blows up in Saffron's face, which would have been touching if I didn't think "well duh." There were SO MANY times where it was obvious at this point any rational person would tell the truth. It drove me crazy. Not a fan where one character is needlessly self sacrificing!
The second issue is this is obviously self published. The idea behind the novels - that humans have equal magic with and over Fae, that a Fae King loving a human therefore frightens his subjects - is really neat and *could be brilliant* with the ruthless editor to pare away the needless repetition and frankly silly plot hijinks. It truly reads like fanfiction as if the author were writing it as they went along and never went back to tighten the story. [Huge shout out that the world Graves envisions is awesome - I'm totally invested in the magic part of the novel!!]
Finally, lots of things don't make sense. The ending of the first novel didn't make sense at the time and this novel didn't explain. Why keep Saffron alive? Why not read his memories to start with? Why does Cylvan not do something about the cuffs - you're the prince FFS! Just say you want the slave? (On that thought, if he's Kaelar's silken-beantighe, why does Kaelar not take his lord's privilege?) For a slave the villains are supposedly worried about Saffron seems to have a lot of free time.
Anyway, I am actually really interested in the Rowan Witch / Wolf Murder plots; the romance was rather lacking this novel, which is not surprising since Saffron was lying to Cylvan most of the time. [Not much character growth.] Saffron is growing in Arid power. And while not dying for the next book I am I going to continue to read these.
A fabulous review by Jane
I am Cylvan's divine mercy," Saffron declared viciously. "And the sun you flew to close to."
"This is the person I choose as my fiancé," Cylvan declared, tucking a piece of hair from Saffron's eyes ... "And should my future Harmonious King die before dawn all of Alfiel will learn exactly what it means to despair beneath my Night Court."
A summary because as I read the #3 I am having a hard time remembering what is going on:
February 4, 2023
Absolutely addicting
The world building in this was some of the best I'd ever read. Oh my god, I am just so stunned, all the drama, the twists and turns, learning about the world's history and magic systems, AAHHHHH!!! I need the next book NOW!!
The world building in this was some of the best I'd ever read. Oh my god, I am just so stunned, all the drama, the twists and turns, learning about the world's history and magic systems, AAHHHHH!!! I need the next book NOW!!
February 14, 2024
I love self sacrificing idiots who don't care if they die because they actually hate themselves and have to be shown how to love and accept that love because they've never truly been loved and adored. I also love hot demon feys who go ballistic for said self sacrificing idiot
October 28, 2022
Full review once I process everything!!! I am crying
UPDATE 10/28/22
it's release day!! thank you kellen for sending me the arc <3 i have now read it twice and feel like i have finally processed all my emotions. i'm going to keep this spoiler free for book 2!
LOSA completely blew me away. I had high expectations going in from POTS but kellen really knocked this one out of the park. even though i had to take breaks, the pacing always felt spot on and the character development hit me right in the gut. saffron continues to be such a wonderful narrator, even when he made decisions that had me screaming. the entire time i wanted to wrap cylvan in a blanket and protect him from the world. also, the new characters!! no spoilers but you will fall in love with them so quickly.
the cliff hanger definitely isn't as bad as pots but i can't want to see where kellen takes us for the rest of the series <3
UPDATE 10/28/22
it's release day!! thank you kellen for sending me the arc <3 i have now read it twice and feel like i have finally processed all my emotions. i'm going to keep this spoiler free for book 2!
LOSA completely blew me away. I had high expectations going in from POTS but kellen really knocked this one out of the park. even though i had to take breaks, the pacing always felt spot on and the character development hit me right in the gut. saffron continues to be such a wonderful narrator, even when he made decisions that had me screaming. the entire time i wanted to wrap cylvan in a blanket and protect him from the world. also, the new characters!! no spoilers but you will fall in love with them so quickly.
the cliff hanger definitely isn't as bad as pots but i can't want to see where kellen takes us for the rest of the series <3
July 11, 2023
Holy Sh*t! This book is a freaking MASTERPIECE!! I was already obsessing about the first book, but this one just raised the bar STRATOSPHERE-HIGH.
My heart was already bruised from book one but this motherfreaking **** of a book just sliced it right out of my chest to stepdance on it. Damn, the pain! Meanwhile, I had to guzzle down the plot like popcorn, greedy for every bite of more sweet addiction. Every time I thought "Yep, know I now where this is going" the author was like "Oh no, you don't 😏" and magicked a twist I didn't see coming and brilliant at the same time. Gods, I'm over here cursing you–Kellen Graves–(nicely though) to WRITE THAT NEXT BOOK. 😤😂 PLEASE, have my heart to do with as you like!
Overall: Uncountable/10, totally recommend, read if you're a masochist that wants to bleed and cry ink in trade for a smidge of unfettered, pure love and sacrifice.
Ah! Also, I never EVER read books over 400 pp max without losing focus at some point, and I FLEW through this one and it's predecessor. Yes, they were this good. I didn't even feel the 500+ pages, and still feel like I NEED MOOOOORE.
My heart was already bruised from book one but this motherfreaking **** of a book just sliced it right out of my chest to stepdance on it. Damn, the pain! Meanwhile, I had to guzzle down the plot like popcorn, greedy for every bite of more sweet addiction. Every time I thought "Yep, know I now where this is going" the author was like "Oh no, you don't 😏" and magicked a twist I didn't see coming and brilliant at the same time. Gods, I'm over here cursing you–Kellen Graves–(nicely though) to WRITE THAT NEXT BOOK. 😤😂 PLEASE, have my heart to do with as you like!
Overall: Uncountable/10, totally recommend, read if you're a masochist that wants to bleed and cry ink in trade for a smidge of unfettered, pure love and sacrifice.
Ah! Also, I never EVER read books over 400 pp max without losing focus at some point, and I FLEW through this one and it's predecessor. Yes, they were this good. I didn't even feel the 500+ pages, and still feel like I NEED MOOOOORE.
October 30, 2023
4.25 ⭐️
I'm happy to report that the issues I had with the first book were resolved in this one. You can really feel Kellen Graves become better at their craft and become an even better storyteller.
There is a reason, though, that I filter my fanfiction on ao3 to be *just fluff*. I really don't always want pages and pages of angst (which this book definitely is).
I had to put LOSA down quite a few times because my heart was breaking for Cylvan and especially Saffron. The ending was very rewarding, and I hope and pray that the third book is a lot softer. I can't go through all that again.
I'm happy to report that the issues I had with the first book were resolved in this one. You can really feel Kellen Graves become better at their craft and become an even better storyteller.
There is a reason, though, that I filter my fanfiction on ao3 to be *just fluff*. I really don't always want pages and pages of angst (which this book definitely is).
I had to put LOSA down quite a few times because my heart was breaking for Cylvan and especially Saffron. The ending was very rewarding, and I hope and pray that the third book is a lot softer. I can't go through all that again.
July 18, 2022
I can’t wait for the cover reveal of this book!!
Prince of the Sorrows was one of my fav reads for this year, and the cover was my all-time fav art/cover of 2022 so far. Kellen and their partner make the best team, and I’ve been blown away at how impressive their work is.
(I’ll adjust my stars accordingly once I’ve finished the entire book, but I’m fully expecting it to be a 5 star read. Just here to show some excitement, encouragement, and love!)
Prince of the Sorrows was one of my fav reads for this year, and the cover was my all-time fav art/cover of 2022 so far. Kellen and their partner make the best team, and I’ve been blown away at how impressive their work is.
(I’ll adjust my stars accordingly once I’ve finished the entire book, but I’m fully expecting it to be a 5 star read. Just here to show some excitement, encouragement, and love!)
series-to-continue
August 6, 2022I want angst! 😈
Hmm.... I think I preferred the cover of the first book, but this one is still very nice.
Prince of the Sorrows ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
Hmm.... I think I preferred the cover of the first book, but this one is still very nice.
Prince of the Sorrows ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Follow me on Instagram 🙂
November 2, 2022
saffron really going through it like damn dude
August 21, 2024
4.5
"He would be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods.
He would be the divine mercy that tore Cylvan from the fate Taran forced him to accept.
He would be the sun Taran mac Delbaith flew too close to."
Hace unos meses terminé "Prince of the Sorrows" y se convirtió en mi mejor lectura de Abril. Empecé esta segunda parte temiendo un poco que le pasara factura el hecho de ser una saga, ya que todos los libros que leí suyos hasta ahora eran autoconclusivos... Y me alegro de haber estado totalmente equivocada.
"Lord of Silver Ashes" me gustó incluso más que su primera parte, ya que explora bastante más su ambientación mitológica y nuestro protagonista Saffron está bastante centrado en salvar tanto a Cylvan como a sus compañeros humanos. No me malentendáis, sigue siendo una historia de romance paranormal, y como tal la relación romántica tiene mucho peso. Pero las historias de Kellen Graves siempre tienen un equilibrio estupendo entre las distintas tramas, y sentí que se inclinaba un poquito más hacia la fantasía en esta segunda parte. Con momentos de acción, de drama y de tensión que me mantuvieron pegada a las páginas, sobre todo en su segunda mitad.
Una cosa que me gusta mucho de las historias de romance paranormal de Kellen es que el humano nunca suele ser el "eslabón débil" de la relación, no depende de su compañero para sacarse las castañas del fuego, y en este libro vuelve a verse a un Saffron que se vale por sí mismo para afrontar los peligros que se le van poniendo por delante, tanto a él mismo como a Cylvan.
También el desarrollo de su relación y la química entre los dos protagonistas sigue siendo igual de buena que en su primera parte y uno de los puntos fuertes de la saga. Podríamos pensar que después del primer libro queda poco más que rascar en la tensión sexual, pero por temas de la trama que obviamente no puedo desvelar... Las interacciones entre los dos vuelven a tener mucha expectación. A pesar de todo el drama y momentos duros que rodean a los dos protagonistas, su relación es siempre tierna y de comprensión mutua. Ambos se protegen y se cuidan mucho entre sí, y son personajes muy carismáticos tanto juntos como por separado.
También toda la parte mitológica me ha vuelto a fascinar, siendo yo como soy una ignorante del tema. El velo que separa el mundo humano del fae, los distintos tipos de magia, las familias de faes, la relación entre los humanos y los sidhe... Me ha generado mucha curiosidad y me ha empujado a leer más cosas sobre mitología celta, que en el fondo es también el origen de la mitología de mi propia tierra.
Así que sí, encantada con esta secuela, y deseando estoy de leer la tercera parte, aunque recientemente me enteré de que no va a ser la última... Pero se lo perdono porque esta parece que va a ser rollo academia de magia... ¿Y a quién no le va a gustar?
"He would be the human in myth who forced their own fate despite the will of the gods.
He would be the divine mercy that tore Cylvan from the fate Taran forced him to accept.
He would be the sun Taran mac Delbaith flew too close to."
Hace unos meses terminé "Prince of the Sorrows" y se convirtió en mi mejor lectura de Abril. Empecé esta segunda parte temiendo un poco que le pasara factura el hecho de ser una saga, ya que todos los libros que leí suyos hasta ahora eran autoconclusivos... Y me alegro de haber estado totalmente equivocada.
"Lord of Silver Ashes" me gustó incluso más que su primera parte, ya que explora bastante más su ambientación mitológica y nuestro protagonista Saffron está bastante centrado en salvar tanto a Cylvan como a sus compañeros humanos. No me malentendáis, sigue siendo una historia de romance paranormal, y como tal la relación romántica tiene mucho peso. Pero las historias de Kellen Graves siempre tienen un equilibrio estupendo entre las distintas tramas, y sentí que se inclinaba un poquito más hacia la fantasía en esta segunda parte. Con momentos de acción, de drama y de tensión que me mantuvieron pegada a las páginas, sobre todo en su segunda mitad.
Una cosa que me gusta mucho de las historias de romance paranormal de Kellen es que el humano nunca suele ser el "eslabón débil" de la relación, no depende de su compañero para sacarse las castañas del fuego, y en este libro vuelve a verse a un Saffron que se vale por sí mismo para afrontar los peligros que se le van poniendo por delante, tanto a él mismo como a Cylvan.
También el desarrollo de su relación y la química entre los dos protagonistas sigue siendo igual de buena que en su primera parte y uno de los puntos fuertes de la saga. Podríamos pensar que después del primer libro queda poco más que rascar en la tensión sexual, pero por temas de la trama que obviamente no puedo desvelar... Las interacciones entre los dos vuelven a tener mucha expectación. A pesar de todo el drama y momentos duros que rodean a los dos protagonistas, su relación es siempre tierna y de comprensión mutua. Ambos se protegen y se cuidan mucho entre sí, y son personajes muy carismáticos tanto juntos como por separado.
También toda la parte mitológica me ha vuelto a fascinar, siendo yo como soy una ignorante del tema. El velo que separa el mundo humano del fae, los distintos tipos de magia, las familias de faes, la relación entre los humanos y los sidhe... Me ha generado mucha curiosidad y me ha empujado a leer más cosas sobre mitología celta, que en el fondo es también el origen de la mitología de mi propia tierra.
Así que sí, encantada con esta secuela, y deseando estoy de leer la tercera parte, aunque recientemente me enteré de que no va a ser la última... Pero se lo perdono porque esta parece que va a ser rollo academia de magia... ¿Y a quién no le va a gustar?
October 19, 2022
Thanks to Kellen for providing me with an ARC!!
I am really glad I did not read a physical copy of this book because, oh boy, it would be dripping with tears.
Going into the book I had very high expectations because I really loved the first book and I have been waiting for it ever since I read the ARC for the first book and with that came high expectations.
Both the world building and the characterization were insanely intriguing and mesmerizing in the first installment of this series and somehow Kellen managed to expand all that in a way that was so fascinating and added to the world without being suffocating or too much to take in.
Getting to know more and more about this world that I love so much and experience it expanding and growing felt magical in the way Kellen uses words to describe it.
I rarely manage to get through a book as quickly and throughout the way I do with how Kellen writes a book. Straight up sucking me into a world and not wanting to leave it. It leads to the ever loving struggle of wanting to finish the story so I can see what happens because the actions just keep you on edge but also really not wanting to finish it because that means it would be over.
This story just makes me not want to leave the characters. They go through such a journey and take you with them on this emotional rollercoaster.
And it is not only the journey in the sense of the plot that they go through but also the characterization and development of the characters I grew to love so much in the first book.
I was a Cylvan supporter, apologist, stan and honestly his number one fan (you can pry that spot from my cold, dead hands) in the first book and I just grew to love him so much more in this one.
Not only the development of already known characters but also the introduction of new ones had me insanely hooked with the book. There should not be as many loveable characters but somehow there still are.
But it is not only the characters that you have no choice but loving that made you feel things but Kellen includes villains that just ignite an immense amount of hate and rage whenever they appear, talk, breathe or reveal something about themselves (i might or might not have thrown my phone through my room at least twice).
Plus the way characters interact with each other and have their stories intertwined and reliant on each other? Amazing, showstopping, excellent. Family relations in this book? So diverse and good and a single line solved all my daddy issues I am not lying.
However, beware this book will emotionally destroy you. You thought the first book was sad? Try again, POTS is now my comfort read for when i need fluff.
I need the next book like right now, Kellen, I would sell my first born, i dont know if you have need for kids but you can have it.
(What if i put the review at one star because it didnt have enough sex? Mo agrees)
I am really glad I did not read a physical copy of this book because, oh boy, it would be dripping with tears.
Going into the book I had very high expectations because I really loved the first book and I have been waiting for it ever since I read the ARC for the first book and with that came high expectations.
Both the world building and the characterization were insanely intriguing and mesmerizing in the first installment of this series and somehow Kellen managed to expand all that in a way that was so fascinating and added to the world without being suffocating or too much to take in.
Getting to know more and more about this world that I love so much and experience it expanding and growing felt magical in the way Kellen uses words to describe it.
I rarely manage to get through a book as quickly and throughout the way I do with how Kellen writes a book. Straight up sucking me into a world and not wanting to leave it. It leads to the ever loving struggle of wanting to finish the story so I can see what happens because the actions just keep you on edge but also really not wanting to finish it because that means it would be over.
This story just makes me not want to leave the characters. They go through such a journey and take you with them on this emotional rollercoaster.
And it is not only the journey in the sense of the plot that they go through but also the characterization and development of the characters I grew to love so much in the first book.
I was a Cylvan supporter, apologist, stan and honestly his number one fan (you can pry that spot from my cold, dead hands) in the first book and I just grew to love him so much more in this one.
Not only the development of already known characters but also the introduction of new ones had me insanely hooked with the book. There should not be as many loveable characters but somehow there still are.
But it is not only the characters that you have no choice but loving that made you feel things but Kellen includes villains that just ignite an immense amount of hate and rage whenever they appear, talk, breathe or reveal something about themselves (i might or might not have thrown my phone through my room at least twice).
Plus the way characters interact with each other and have their stories intertwined and reliant on each other? Amazing, showstopping, excellent. Family relations in this book? So diverse and good and a single line solved all my daddy issues I am not lying.
However, beware this book will emotionally destroy you. You thought the first book was sad? Try again, POTS is now my comfort read for when i need fluff.
I need the next book like right now, Kellen, I would sell my first born, i dont know if you have need for kids but you can have it.
(What if i put the review at one star because it didnt have enough sex? Mo agrees)
June 23, 2024
I still have the same complaints as I did for book one but this one was so much fun some of the stuff regarding the writing etc can be ignored
April 3, 2025
Why do bad things (these entire first two books) happen to good people (Saffron)? JFC.
November 1, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and my GOD am I glad I did.
I happened across this series at random earlier in the year while perusing Amazon. Never before has there been a series that summed up all the qualities I love in a book, and this sequel was no different.
I may not be as eloquent with my words as Kellen Graves is, but Lord of Silver Ashes had me in its deathly grip just as much as it’s predecessor did, and not for one moment did I beg to be let go.
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a fantasy series that had such extensive and interesting world building, coupled with diverse characters that are all deliciously flawed in ways that make you both love and despise them. I cannot put into words how special that feeling is, that even In the most painful moments of this book, I ached for even a page more of Saffron and Cylvan’s story.
Lord of Silver Ashes continued the fantastic lore that started in Prince of the Sorrows, and having now finished- I cannot wait to read what happens next.
Now I need a big cup of hot chocolate and a blanket after all that emotional damage, I’m sure the MC’s do too ❤️
I happened across this series at random earlier in the year while perusing Amazon. Never before has there been a series that summed up all the qualities I love in a book, and this sequel was no different.
I may not be as eloquent with my words as Kellen Graves is, but Lord of Silver Ashes had me in its deathly grip just as much as it’s predecessor did, and not for one moment did I beg to be let go.
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a fantasy series that had such extensive and interesting world building, coupled with diverse characters that are all deliciously flawed in ways that make you both love and despise them. I cannot put into words how special that feeling is, that even In the most painful moments of this book, I ached for even a page more of Saffron and Cylvan’s story.
Lord of Silver Ashes continued the fantastic lore that started in Prince of the Sorrows, and having now finished- I cannot wait to read what happens next.
Now I need a big cup of hot chocolate and a blanket after all that emotional damage, I’m sure the MC’s do too ❤️
October 28, 2022
Edit: happy publication day 🎉
Holly shit.
I wanna preface with a big thanks to the author for the ARC! Which was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Losa kick start two weeks after the end of prince of the Sorrows, we reunite with Saffron who spend all this time alone, and we're hit with the full angst power of his predicament.
Honestly I didn't think I would love this installment as much as I did Prince of the Sorrows, but I was super wrong because I loved losa even more.
I won't spoil anything except that for every bit of fluff or happiness you will be HIT by a full wave of desperation and angst.
If you like the kind of relationship where their only goal is to protect their partner... what are you still doing reading this??? Jump in the train and read the Rowan blood series !!
I can't wait to see where everything is going, to discover more secrets and learn more about the worls surrounding Saffron and Cylvan ♡
Holly shit.
I wanna preface with a big thanks to the author for the ARC! Which was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Losa kick start two weeks after the end of prince of the Sorrows, we reunite with Saffron who spend all this time alone, and we're hit with the full angst power of his predicament.
Honestly I didn't think I would love this installment as much as I did Prince of the Sorrows, but I was super wrong because I loved losa even more.
I won't spoil anything except that for every bit of fluff or happiness you will be HIT by a full wave of desperation and angst.
If you like the kind of relationship where their only goal is to protect their partner... what are you still doing reading this??? Jump in the train and read the Rowan blood series !!
I can't wait to see where everything is going, to discover more secrets and learn more about the worls surrounding Saffron and Cylvan ♡
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