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Osparia #0.5
Ashes in the Wind & Islands of Ash
Ashes In The Wind:
Emelyn trains under her father's direction her entire life. Their lives in Esora are peaceful. Until a message from the shadows arrives with a warning. Ember is coming for the chosen one, and they don't plan on taking prisoners. They will not stop until nothing but ashes remain.
Islands Of Ash:
Shay keeps her secrets until war invades their shores. Facing the flames of Embers fae soldiers Shay and her people band together to protect their home with the hearts of dragons on their side. But will it be enough?
Follow Emelyns story as it continues in the first book of The Osparia Series
Fate Of Water And Wind.
Emelyn trains under her father's direction her entire life. Their lives in Esora are peaceful. Until a message from the shadows arrives with a warning. Ember is coming for the chosen one, and they don't plan on taking prisoners. They will not stop until nothing but ashes remain.
Islands Of Ash:
Shay keeps her secrets until war invades their shores. Facing the flames of Embers fae soldiers Shay and her people band together to protect their home with the hearts of dragons on their side. But will it be enough?
Follow Emelyns story as it continues in the first book of The Osparia Series
Fate Of Water And Wind.
139 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2023
44 people are currently reading
1236 people want to read
About the author
Lashell Rain
12 books218 followersLashell Rain is a foodie fueled by a shameless amount of caffeine and a passion for storytelling. The Texas native lives at home with her two beautiful kids. Between being a mom by day, and a writer by night, she brought her dreams of becoming an author into a reality.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 11, 2023
This was a nice introduction into the world of Osperia, and to see the events before Fate of Water and Wind. I really like Emelyn as a main character so far. And Ace is precious! They both went through so much. Even though this was a novella, I still felt an attachment to the characters. The trauma was impactful, and I felt the emotions along with the characters. I received an arc for the full length novel, and I wanted to make sure I read the novella first. I’m excited to see where the story goes in Fate of Water and Wind.
February 19, 2023
First of all thank you to Lashell Rain for providing me with the ARC for a honest review.
“I promise that as long as there is air in my lungs and a beat in my heart, that I will be here, we will be here, together.”
“Mai lao kahi.”
I am sorry but I was sobbing about the circumstances of this but they are so precious.
This Novella was so heart wrenching even tho I did know what I was getting into when I wanted to know the history of the first book. Now I absolutely cannot wait for Emyln and Ace to grow stronger and take revenge for this. Also get to know the stranger?
I enjoyed the Island of Ashes so much as well Shay is a badass and I am sure so is Emeris. I absolutely love stories involving people befriending dragons!!
The world building was pretty good and the writing was something that you can fly through smoothly and the story itself is quite intriguing. I loved the interactions between the characters.
“I promise that as long as there is air in my lungs and a beat in my heart, that I will be here, we will be here, together.”
“Mai lao kahi.”
I am sorry but I was sobbing about the circumstances of this but they are so precious.
This Novella was so heart wrenching even tho I did know what I was getting into when I wanted to know the history of the first book. Now I absolutely cannot wait for Emyln and Ace to grow stronger and take revenge for this. Also get to know the stranger?
I enjoyed the Island of Ashes so much as well Shay is a badass and I am sure so is Emeris. I absolutely love stories involving people befriending dragons!!
The world building was pretty good and the writing was something that you can fly through smoothly and the story itself is quite intriguing. I loved the interactions between the characters.
May 7, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
🌶️/5
Mate trope
Dragons
Fae/Elves
Elemental magic
« I straightened myself, not glancing back, releasing the part of me that believed in a peaceful life behind on a shaky breath that vibrated through my chest like angry thunder before a storm. »
First of all, I have to say that I’m not the biggest fan of novellas, because I don’t think they’re always important or hold any sort of interest. Still, I decided to read this one because I’m lucky enough to have received an ARC of Fate of Water and Wind, the first book of this series, and I wanted to be able to have as much information as possible on the characters and the series to be able to give the most honest review possible.
I am not disappointed. At all. The novella is really promising, it sets the stories in motion, and it’s very helpful to have all this world building already, because it means that we will probably spend less time on learning about the different types of Fae and Elves that exist, the type of magic of the enemies our characters face.
We learn about Emelyn, a Fae able to bend water, and Ace, a Sky Elf, who bends, you guessed it, air. They’re childhood friends who will face a war they didn’t expect, and who will lose more than just loved ones in the fights.
We also learn about Shay and Baron, chiefs of their village, who will have to leave their peaceful lives after an attack from the Fire Elves, the same who waged a war on the villages of Emelyn and Ace.
I really liked Shay and Baron, a little more than Emelyn and Ace, but probably because they’re older and don’t sound like teenagers. I can’t wait to learn what happens to all of them after those attacks, and see who they turn out to be.
🌶️/5
Mate trope
Dragons
Fae/Elves
Elemental magic
« I straightened myself, not glancing back, releasing the part of me that believed in a peaceful life behind on a shaky breath that vibrated through my chest like angry thunder before a storm. »
First of all, I have to say that I’m not the biggest fan of novellas, because I don’t think they’re always important or hold any sort of interest. Still, I decided to read this one because I’m lucky enough to have received an ARC of Fate of Water and Wind, the first book of this series, and I wanted to be able to have as much information as possible on the characters and the series to be able to give the most honest review possible.
I am not disappointed. At all. The novella is really promising, it sets the stories in motion, and it’s very helpful to have all this world building already, because it means that we will probably spend less time on learning about the different types of Fae and Elves that exist, the type of magic of the enemies our characters face.
We learn about Emelyn, a Fae able to bend water, and Ace, a Sky Elf, who bends, you guessed it, air. They’re childhood friends who will face a war they didn’t expect, and who will lose more than just loved ones in the fights.
We also learn about Shay and Baron, chiefs of their village, who will have to leave their peaceful lives after an attack from the Fire Elves, the same who waged a war on the villages of Emelyn and Ace.
I really liked Shay and Baron, a little more than Emelyn and Ace, but probably because they’re older and don’t sound like teenagers. I can’t wait to learn what happens to all of them after those attacks, and see who they turn out to be.
September 11, 2022
Type: Dark Fantasy
Ease of read: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Age range: NA
No spoilers!
The prequel story of Emelyn and what she has to endue in a short amount of time is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking! Have the tissues ready, you're going to need them. This novella is an absolute necessity before you start the Osparia Series. The story of her life and that of the people around her is captivating. The world building that's done in a short amount of time is Avatar level!
The story of war and bloodshed continues in Shay's story. There's dragons! Do I need to say more?!
Tropes:
fated mates
war
found family
Ease of read: 5/5
Spice: 4/5
Age range: NA
No spoilers!
The prequel story of Emelyn and what she has to endue in a short amount of time is gut-wrenching and heartbreaking! Have the tissues ready, you're going to need them. This novella is an absolute necessity before you start the Osparia Series. The story of her life and that of the people around her is captivating. The world building that's done in a short amount of time is Avatar level!
The story of war and bloodshed continues in Shay's story. There's dragons! Do I need to say more?!
Tropes:
fated mates
war
found family
March 30, 2023
“I will watch this world fall before I lose you.”
I liked Lashell's writing and I'm curious to see how these prequels are important to read Fate of Water and Wind. They might be only "informative" about the actions that will lead to book 1. So let's see how important they are .
I liked Islands of Ash more. Maybe because of the dragons. But it felt more appealing.
It's an easy and fast reading.
I liked Lashell's writing and I'm curious to see how these prequels are important to read Fate of Water and Wind. They might be only "informative" about the actions that will lead to book 1. So let's see how important they are .
I liked Islands of Ash more. Maybe because of the dragons. But it felt more appealing.
It's an easy and fast reading.
January 24, 2024
I’d seen the rave about this read on BookTok. I was excited for the expected spice that people were referring when mentioning this book. This book had me grabbing for my big box of tissue. It wasn’t as spicy as I expected. However, I do love a book that can make me cry. The end of this book , well should I say the end of the first book out of two had a Scoville Scale of 1/2🌶️. Now the second book, had a Scoville Scale of 🌶️🌶️🌶️. It did make my jaw drop in some parts because the writing did catch me off guard a little due to the lack of spice from the first book. I’m actually going to purchase the second book to see how the series ends. Over all this is a good start off read for all you vanilla ass bitches that want to get into a little smutt. Happy slutty smutting 🙃
October 29, 2023
My rating system:
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
Apparently this novella takes place 100 years before the next book which is technically book 1 of the series. A lot happens very quickly and it was a little overwhelming but I'm ready to start book 1 and see what happens next!
5 stars - Absolutely loved it! I would definitely read again anytime!
4 stars - Really liked it! Will most likely read again sometime.
3 stars - Liked it. Glad I read it but probably won't read again.
2 stars - Didn't like it. Glad I'm done with the book and I'll never read it again.
1 star - Very rare rating. Absolutely hated the book. Will never read again and I'll probably burn any copies I come across.
Apparently this novella takes place 100 years before the next book which is technically book 1 of the series. A lot happens very quickly and it was a little overwhelming but I'm ready to start book 1 and see what happens next!
January 25, 2025
KU - Prequel Novella Pair - so this was two novellas that set up the stories of the main characters in the upcoming book. It gives basic character details and starts the war for them. It gives a little insight into what I am sure becomes their main motivations. It is less than 150 pages so nothing is really fleshed out but it is definitely a appetizer that makes you want to pick up the first book in the series.
October 11, 2023
Fast paces and easy to read.
1)If Emelyn doesn't want Ace I will gladly take him. Page 90 *gasp* how dare you girl!?
2) Baron, just yes.
Smash it all, I will be reading the rest!
1)If Emelyn doesn't want Ace I will gladly take him. Page 90 *gasp* how dare you girl!?
2) Baron, just yes.
Smash it all, I will be reading the rest!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2025
Two separate novellas introducing us to the Osparia series. I am excited to stat Fate of Water and Wind.
December 22, 2025
not bad
So it’s a short read and mid paced so not fast but not dreadfully slow
For the most part it kept my attention but very few parts lost me
Oh and there’s a dragon!!
So it’s a short read and mid paced so not fast but not dreadfully slow
For the most part it kept my attention but very few parts lost me
Oh and there’s a dragon!!
March 2, 2023
3.5 -⭐⭐⭐💫
I had done it; I had found her.
Ashes In The Wind/Islands of Ash is a set of two prequel novellas of the New Adult Fantasy Romance series, The Osparia Series. Both stories follow different characters existing in the realm of Osparia, which is made up of different nations who carry abilities of elemental power. Both focus on the arrival of the empire of Ember, which seeks to destroy and consume the nations our characters live in.
In Ashes in the Wind we follow the character of Eme, a young waterbender who drawn in the fight when her nation's ally, the Sky Elves, are being targeted by the emperor of Ember. They claim the "chosen one" is within The Sky Elves and they must snuff it up. Eme, as part of fae of Esora, have always been close the the Sky elves and offer aid. During this Eme is brought together with Ace, Sky Elf from her past that she was once close to.
In contrast we have Islands of Ash which follows Shay and Baron, two fire elves who have been mated and lead the tribe. In this land, dragon hunting is a right of passage...but Shay has been keeping a secret and this secret warns them of the looming threat of Ember. And so they prepare.
Now, both novellas have a very distinct feel from each other. Personally, I felt Ashes In the Wind was a stronger narrative but Islands of Ash had a beautiful romance and spice. But let me break down both of them separately:
"You're the bravest warrior I've ever met, and I'm grateful to call you mine. Nothing will ever change that, love."
Ashes in the Wind has an excellent premise and build it. It very much feels like Avatar The Last Airbender but with elves. I enjoyed learning a bit about the world and the unique points added to the fae. Ace and Eme are incredibly sweet and seeing them find their friendship again even in the darkest moments was endearing. I also loved Eme's father, Orion. The moment of action in this novella was a little confusing and the sudden POV switch at the end threw me through a loop but it was a solid 4 star read that has me so curious to see what is going to happen next...especially with the chosen one teaser.
Islands of Ash was a bit more of a struggle for me. I liked Shay and Baron and the idea around dragons but I felt it was moving too fast. I wasn't able to catch my bearings as much as I hopes and I'm unsure the reason for why Ember needs their land. There is spice in this novella that I would put at 1.5 spicy peppers our of 5 and I found it was well written. I would say with more time and words this would definitely grab me but, as it stands, I was left a little wanting. This was a 3 star read.
As such I put my overall review as a 3.5 star review. I think it really opens up the world and makes me very interested to dive into this series but I hope there is more fleshing out for all the characters to further connect with. I also hope for a bit more tangible unique elements to help further separate it from the Nickolodeon TV show that I loved as a child.
Available on KU!
I had done it; I had found her.
Ashes In The Wind/Islands of Ash is a set of two prequel novellas of the New Adult Fantasy Romance series, The Osparia Series. Both stories follow different characters existing in the realm of Osparia, which is made up of different nations who carry abilities of elemental power. Both focus on the arrival of the empire of Ember, which seeks to destroy and consume the nations our characters live in.
In Ashes in the Wind we follow the character of Eme, a young waterbender who drawn in the fight when her nation's ally, the Sky Elves, are being targeted by the emperor of Ember. They claim the "chosen one" is within The Sky Elves and they must snuff it up. Eme, as part of fae of Esora, have always been close the the Sky elves and offer aid. During this Eme is brought together with Ace, Sky Elf from her past that she was once close to.
In contrast we have Islands of Ash which follows Shay and Baron, two fire elves who have been mated and lead the tribe. In this land, dragon hunting is a right of passage...but Shay has been keeping a secret and this secret warns them of the looming threat of Ember. And so they prepare.
Now, both novellas have a very distinct feel from each other. Personally, I felt Ashes In the Wind was a stronger narrative but Islands of Ash had a beautiful romance and spice. But let me break down both of them separately:
"You're the bravest warrior I've ever met, and I'm grateful to call you mine. Nothing will ever change that, love."
Ashes in the Wind has an excellent premise and build it. It very much feels like Avatar The Last Airbender but with elves. I enjoyed learning a bit about the world and the unique points added to the fae. Ace and Eme are incredibly sweet and seeing them find their friendship again even in the darkest moments was endearing. I also loved Eme's father, Orion. The moment of action in this novella was a little confusing and the sudden POV switch at the end threw me through a loop but it was a solid 4 star read that has me so curious to see what is going to happen next...especially with the chosen one teaser.
Islands of Ash was a bit more of a struggle for me. I liked Shay and Baron and the idea around dragons but I felt it was moving too fast. I wasn't able to catch my bearings as much as I hopes and I'm unsure the reason for why Ember needs their land. There is spice in this novella that I would put at 1.5 spicy peppers our of 5 and I found it was well written. I would say with more time and words this would definitely grab me but, as it stands, I was left a little wanting. This was a 3 star read.
As such I put my overall review as a 3.5 star review. I think it really opens up the world and makes me very interested to dive into this series but I hope there is more fleshing out for all the characters to further connect with. I also hope for a bit more tangible unique elements to help further separate it from the Nickolodeon TV show that I loved as a child.
Available on KU!
March 14, 2023
I saw a snippet of the first book on tik tok, then saw the prequels for it. Which I’m not the biggest fan of prequels, but I figured I’d there’s an entire novella dedicated to the first book then it must be important.
As I read this novella I couldn’t get the idea that the storyline sounded familiar........ fae have the gift of elemental powers, fire, water, air, (earth?). The chosen one is an air fae and so the crazy princess of ember decides to wipe out the entire race so that way the chosen one doesnt succeed in ruining her plans..... and the princess has mastered lightening bending.... AND one air fae lives and takes refuge with his female friend...a water fae
….. If this doesn’t sound like Avatar: the last Airbender then I don’t know what does.
I will continue this series for I have hope that it will be good, unfortunately the storyline at this point just seems unoriginal.
As I read this novella I couldn’t get the idea that the storyline sounded familiar........ fae have the gift of elemental powers, fire, water, air, (earth?). The chosen one is an air fae and so the crazy princess of ember decides to wipe out the entire race so that way the chosen one doesnt succeed in ruining her plans..... and the princess has mastered lightening bending.... AND one air fae lives and takes refuge with his female friend...a water fae
….. If this doesn’t sound like Avatar: the last Airbender then I don’t know what does.
I will continue this series for I have hope that it will be good, unfortunately the storyline at this point just seems unoriginal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2023
Being able to read this BEFORE book one was such an amazing idea! To start off with world building and understanding the characters before jumping in! It has an amazing story line FILLED with mystery and fantasy! The amount of emotions you can feel right along with the characters and their power to overcome any obstacle they encounter is amazing! I love the magic and danger that's behind every turn. I will not spoil this for anyone but this has to be a hands down favorite novella of mine!
February 5, 2023
I was a little surprised at how much I enjoyed this read! I happened to come across the author and decided to support her in a time of need by purchasing one of her books..and I'm glad I did. A pretty short introduction of some great characters and an enticing storyline! It has me excited to purchase the book and learn more about these characters and the war that they will no doubt go through. I'm a little worried for my heart though because I've already cried! "I succumbed to nothingness. It took over like the poison that had coursed through my veins. This pain was nothing compared to being hurt in battle or cut down in training. It was like losing your soul, but you had to continue living without it, becoming an empty husk that breathes and eats. Being alive was like the rivers. Their currents never stopped moving. Life wasn't going to give me pause, regardless of the darkness that came with it. We had to keep going, keep breathing, living... for all of those who no longer could."
February 1, 2023
Ashes in the wind and Islands of Ash it’s a great introduction to the world of Osparia that shows us events of before Fate of Water and Wind. I really liked Emelyn and cannot wait to read more about her story. Also Ace is just just a cutie, we have to protect him at all cost.
I’m usually don’t read novellas to start a series, i usually just read them after I read the first book but since I received an arc of Fate of Water and Wind I wanted to go in with all the previous knowledge of the novella and honestly don’t regret it. It made me care so much about the characters and made me even more exited to read the next book.
Also I’m a sucker for Avatar: the last airbender and Legend of Korra so this world just hit right for me. To top it all of it had dragons thrown on the mix, which was amazing and reminded me of Avatar Roku and his dragon with a touch of how to train your dragon. It also has mates, wingspan, Sky Elf’s, Fae, spice and other things. So if you like what i mentioned then this book will definitely be for you.
I’m usually don’t read novellas to start a series, i usually just read them after I read the first book but since I received an arc of Fate of Water and Wind I wanted to go in with all the previous knowledge of the novella and honestly don’t regret it. It made me care so much about the characters and made me even more exited to read the next book.
Also I’m a sucker for Avatar: the last airbender and Legend of Korra so this world just hit right for me. To top it all of it had dragons thrown on the mix, which was amazing and reminded me of Avatar Roku and his dragon with a touch of how to train your dragon. It also has mates, wingspan, Sky Elf’s, Fae, spice and other things. So if you like what i mentioned then this book will definitely be for you.
February 24, 2023
This is two Novella's in one. Like the title suggests. Good world building and it interested me enough to read the first book in the series.
July 23, 2023
"What does that say about us as fathers when our children enjoy the hunt?"
"It means we taught them to not be prey."
I enjoyed being able to get to know these characters before I dive into book 1! It was quick and easy to get through, which worked out in my favor because I've been itching to start Fate of Water and Wind, but I knew I wanted to read this before picking it up.
The overall storylines were interesting enough, but I definitely feel like there could have been more information given/more build-up with feeling connected to the characters. We're introduced to lots of different groups of fae and their ways of living, but they were mainly glossed over in favor of focusing on the few main characters and their actions, rather than their feelings. I was left with lots of questions, and I'm not very attached to any of the characters right now. But I'm hoping book 1 slows down and delves into everything I feel like was missing from this one!
"It means we taught them to not be prey."
I enjoyed being able to get to know these characters before I dive into book 1! It was quick and easy to get through, which worked out in my favor because I've been itching to start Fate of Water and Wind, but I knew I wanted to read this before picking it up.
The overall storylines were interesting enough, but I definitely feel like there could have been more information given/more build-up with feeling connected to the characters. We're introduced to lots of different groups of fae and their ways of living, but they were mainly glossed over in favor of focusing on the few main characters and their actions, rather than their feelings. I was left with lots of questions, and I'm not very attached to any of the characters right now. But I'm hoping book 1 slows down and delves into everything I feel like was missing from this one!
April 7, 2023
Awesome novella that introduced two groups of characters’ storylines within their overall larger world. It got me very interested in this world and I can’t wait to dive into book 1 of the series! First part introduces Emelyn (water bending Fae) and Ace (Sky Elf, yes he has wings 😍) and I absolutely fell in love with them, especially Ace! I’m so glad the next book sounds like it’s centered around them because I’m really excited to know what happens next with them! The second part introduces Shay and Baron, fae who ride dragons! Instant 🤩
This series seems like it will be a great adult fantasy and I am here for it!
This series seems like it will be a great adult fantasy and I am here for it!
July 26, 2022
Grab your tissues. Ashes in the Wind destroyed me. It's action packed, full of cool elemental wielding, and characters with depth to their relationships that will make you smile and tug on your heart strings. Then severe them completely. CAN'T WAIT FOR BOOK ONE!!!
Islands of Ash expands on the world building from Ashes in the Wind, and gives a glimpse into the fantastical elements of the world of Osparia. And has some spice ;)
Islands of Ash expands on the world building from Ashes in the Wind, and gives a glimpse into the fantastical elements of the world of Osparia. And has some spice ;)
January 5, 2023
I don't think I've gotten attached to characters so quickly. So I certainly didn't expect to be so emotional over events that happened in such a short period of time.
That being said, all the props to Lashell for a beautiful world and character-building. It takes talent and skill to hook your readers so quickly and get them to care.
I cannot wait for "Fate of Water and Wind" to drop. I NEED to know what happens next!
That being said, all the props to Lashell for a beautiful world and character-building. It takes talent and skill to hook your readers so quickly and get them to care.
I cannot wait for "Fate of Water and Wind" to drop. I NEED to know what happens next!
April 17, 2023
Novella book 1 Ashes in the Wind is a tear jerky. All the feels of a rollercoaster of emotions. I can’t wait to read Book 1 in the Osparia series as I need to know A LOT of answers. Now.
Novella book 2. The sexual tension 🥵. Cut it with a butterknife. I’m a sucker for dragons so of the two stories this was my favorite.
Overall this was a short but action packed novella that shows a lot of promise for this series and I look forward to reading it ASAP.
Novella book 2. The sexual tension 🥵. Cut it with a butterknife. I’m a sucker for dragons so of the two stories this was my favorite.
Overall this was a short but action packed novella that shows a lot of promise for this series and I look forward to reading it ASAP.
November 17, 2022
I love the idea of a novella to introduce a series. I got my feet wet and now I want more! I enjoyed the world-building--a cool mix of some of my favorite fantasy elements combined in a way I don't read every day. I can't wait to read what happens next!
February 14, 2023
There is two different main characters, two different storylines in the same world. I cant wait to see where both will end up.
I think reading novellas are curicial before reading book 1. I feel in my bones that it will add much more to the story now!
Going to read the book 1 💙
I think reading novellas are curicial before reading book 1. I feel in my bones that it will add much more to the story now!
Going to read the book 1 💙
August 9, 2022
I absolutely can not wait for more of this series! These novellas are the perfect lead up to what’s coming and a great sneak peek at some of the main characters and their stories.
January 30, 2023
I love the way this introduces you to the world, so happy I got an arc of the first book!!
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews