Twilight’s Curse by K.M. Wray is the first book in the Twilight Realm Trilogy. This is a brilliant YA fantasy book that really captures interest of all readers. The story is an exciting one. It grabs your attention right from the start and really pulls you into it. Zoe and Nix are such great characters. They for me make the story. It can like you could really connect with them and the journey they go on. This is the first book that I have read by this author and it was definitely a good one yo start with. I think it really showcased how strong the writing is and I am excited to ready the rest of the Trilogy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2021-11-01 15:52:452021-11-02 18:49:15Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Kerry Baker
Well, this chapter in the series was excellent and intense. The action was strong and gripping. I took my phone everywhere because I couldn’t stop listening. The characters seem to be well-developed. I love the fact that audio gives them an extra layer of personality. Don’t we all wear msdks while trying to solve problems? That seems so hard to hide who you are while going about daily life. I am a huge fan of this series. I definitely recommend this one to the sci-fi and fantasy lovers.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2021-11-01 15:39:012021-11-02 18:48:17Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors (Book 3) AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Shelly Kittell
Twilight’s Curse is the first in a fantasy series about the Twilight Realm. We find the story centered on Zoe, a magical elf with a long history of abuse, and Nix, the son of the King and Queen of the Twilight Realm.
An intriguing YA fantasy novel, this story had a likeable cast (although I personally found them hard to connect with), interesting world building and a slow burn romance sure to make you keep turning pages. I enjoyed this coming of age story, and look forward to the next book in the series. Definitely pick it up if you are a lover of fantasy!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashleigh Sherel-Kiddhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshleigh Sherel-Kidd2021-11-01 15:23:142021-11-02 18:46:11Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Ashleigh Sherel-Kidd
Talise is one of the people unfortunate enough to live in the Storm. The outer ring to the Gate and the Crown. Talise goes to the Gate to train for the academy to be accepted permanently into the Gate. That’s when everything gets sideways. I love this book, you never know what will happen next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Slaglehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Slagle2021-11-01 13:38:282021-11-02 20:14:33The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle
I wholeheartedly enjoyed this book!! Oh, my goodness it was good. The action, the magic, the enemies to lovers, the ENDING!? I was having a good time until the end of the book, it threw me into a world wind of emotions. If you are on the fence about reading this, please just do it, you will not regret it. Talise is driven by the need to escape the life she has as being born in the outer ring ‘storm’ and the only way to do that is to become to very best and impress the emperor, luckily, she is able to do something few can do where she is from and that’s shape all four elements, fire, air, water, and earth. She was doing just that until her competition shows up; he’s smart, rich, incredibly handsome, and just as talented as she is. She is supposed to hate him, not have butterflies every time he’s around or enjoy a smoldering kiss with him which leaves her wanting more than she should. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to read a brilliant YA Fantasy book. The world building is always so important to me along with character personalities and a great plot, Kay L. Moody hit the mark with all of them. This is a 5-star book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emily McCoyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmily McCoy2021-11-01 11:05:212021-11-02 07:45:50The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Emily McCoy
This story follows a girl named Talsie, that has the ability to control the four elements. The kingdom is divided into three parts. Storm, Gate, and Crown. The only way to move up categories is to go to the academy and become a Master Shaper. This story is a great read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katrina Davishttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatrina Davis2021-11-01 07:37:082021-11-01 07:37:08The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Katrina Davis
The story follows a girl named Talia. Her journey starts on a boat headed into the inner circle, so she can get tested for the academy of the elements. You watch her learn to control her power and watch it get stronger. Then, a wrench gets thrown and this boy whom she loves to hate enters into her life. You see her struggle but then she gets right back up again with just as much vigor. Nothing stops this girl, not even her a boy she considers her enemy. You see that hate slowly start to fade and they become friends. The biggest thing that I love about this first book, is that the love/hate relationship these two have for each other doesnt overwhelm the book. It’s a nice supporting role while it lets the main story be the primary focus. I highly recommend this book to anybody who loves a good story! But fair warning though, this book has a cliffhanger that will leave you wanting more!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Crystal Jimmohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCrystal Jimmo2021-11-01 05:11:032021-11-02 15:34:47Elements of the Crown by Kay L Moody – Review by Crystal Jimmo
Not going to lie at first I was very confused at what was going on in the story and why. The description leant more towards a simpler way of describing while I enjoy the more high fantasy deep descriptions. Personally I enjoyed the variety of tropes and ideas that were used and hinted at to come in the next volumes that are coming. I am looking forward to the remaining volumes to come and will be sure to read this again when the next one comes out because I am sure I will need the refresher.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarahhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah2021-10-31 22:56:122021-11-02 15:26:43The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Sarah Hammel
Russell Archey has written a great fantasy that fans of Lord of the Rings will enjoy. It is a dark fantasy that will keep you hooked to your kindle till you’re finished. The characters are incredibly well-written. This is a fantasy series I look forward to continuing. Be prepared to get lost within this story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jaime Owenshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJaime Owens2021-10-31 22:14:032021-11-02 15:25:26Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey- Review by Jaime Owens
Okay. First thing first: the cover? EYECATCHING. The title: intriguing. This was a bit of a “darker” book for me and I enjoyed it. This was my first book by Russell Archey and I’m excited for more! Ashes of Alydr was written with such description I could really feel and enjoy the world building that was taking place around me! I’m a HUGE sucker for elves and I definitely got my fix. I’m eager to read the rest of the series (because YAY more books!!!) and see more of the characters and work be fleshed out. I’m also really excited to learn more about Alda and it’s inhabitants. I’m a sucker for fantasy and this hit the spot for me! I can’t wait to read the next! Check it out y’all 💖
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jade Thomsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJade Thomson2021-10-31 20:28:182021-11-02 15:20:29Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Jade Thomson
It took me a while to decide what to say when it comes to Twilight’s Curse by K.M. Wray. I thoroughly enjoyed it and it was very intriguing. My first time reading a book in regards to Elven Fantasy. The Fantasy realm the author created seemed beautiful in exception to those characters who went against the grain and changed things. Nix, the Crown Prince Phoenix, is in hiding after watching his parents slaughter at a young age. Zoe, an elf with extremely strong powers, is the daughter of the traitors who killed Nix’s parents so they could rule the Twilight Realm. When they cross paths they have no idea how important they will be to one another. Nor are they aware that the same elf, Nate, was the one who mentored both of them. Escaping from the regent was the only thing Zoe could do to stop the experiments her mom kept performing on her. Tattooing her skin with different spells that contain dark magic, little does her mother know that the light within her daughter is too great for the dark magic, which Zoe uses to her advantage. Together Nix and Zoe have to help take down her parents and guide him to his rightful place, as King of the Twilight Realm.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Beverly Place-Finniehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBeverly Place-Finnie2021-10-31 20:22:542021-11-02 15:20:05Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Beverly Finnie
I’ll be honest I don’t read a ton of fantasy, but I’m super happy I picked this one up! There’s so many twists and turns in the plot you never know what’s coming next. It makes me very happy to know that this is part of a series. I can’t wait to read the next installment! Such a strong start to what I’m sure will be an incredible series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kristy Nelsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKristy Nelson2021-10-31 20:08:022021-11-02 15:19:14The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Kristy Nelson
Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Allyson Ware
People always say not to judge a book by its cover. That is easy enough for me to overlook, but the title of the book is what catches my eye. When I started this book based on the title, I never imagined it would turn out the way it did. Does the title make sense now? Of course. However, when I read this book, this is what I imagined “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” would be about.
This novel is enveloped in a vast array of magic and uncertainty; within the characters, of course. Nix and Zoe each tell their story in a way that leaves the reader wanting more information. You get to watch these two find themselves through each other. I feel that this novel would be amazing for any uncertain soul; there are a few amazing lessons that have the potential to be incredibly helpful to anyone willing to take such advice.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Allyson Whttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAllyson W2021-10-31 17:45:102021-11-02 13:27:20Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Allyson Ware
The world building in this book was done really well. It made me feel like I was in the book. I really liked the characters and their personalities. The elves were really cool. This was a well written YA book. I look forward to reading more of this series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nikitahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNikita2021-10-31 16:33:232021-11-02 07:52:24Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Nikita Lesperance
Nite Fire: Smoke and Mirrors by C.L. Schneider is the third book in the Nite Fire series. I read the synopsis and loved the concept so much that I didn’t even see that this was the third book in the series! However, I was so hooked by the beginning of this book that I continued to listen (audio-version) even though I did not have prior knowledge of the characters and their previous stories. While I was slightly confused by the dynamics between some of the characters at the beginning of the book, I was able to quickly fill in the dots. Overall, the book was action-packed, mysterious, and gave just enough spooky vibes for the Halloween season! I enjoyed the characters and all of the supernatural elements this book had to offer!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Mariehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Marie2021-10-31 15:50:272021-11-02 13:24:25Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors (Book 3) AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jasmin Marie
I was excited to finish this duet, after recently reading Love’s Refrain. While this book 2 does catch you up on the plot of Book 1, I’m glad I had already read the first and had already come to love these characters before embarking on this one. There is much more emphasis on the soulmate/transcendent nature of their love affair, which many romance readers may find lovely. Phil’s battle to return to his love, and all of the barriers in the way to his hoped-for reunion made for interesting plot points. What’s a romance without a bit of the ‘star-crossed lovers’ theme anyway? The writing struck me again as very lyrical and whimsical – Fletcher has a unique voice with a dream-like quality I appreciated. Romance lovers, pick up this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-10-31 15:32:462021-11-02 07:23:28Love’s Reverie (The Stardust Duet, Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Erica Shoebridge
Oh sweet magical fantasy realms of awesome sauce, I really loved this book. It was new and refreshing and just a delight to read.
Ever since The Rupture darkness has dealt a hefty blow to Alda; the Aldyrs are dying, the elves are going with them and the dwarves have retreated to their homes safely tucked away in the mountains. Humans are all gathered together in settlements that have seen better days and nasty ass gods do nasty ass things to the world.
I’ve got to say that I love this, it’s always a good sign when a book leaves you just a little bit breathless with wonder. Archey has created a wonderful world that is just bursting with awesomeness. Really recommend reading this book and am looking forward to the next installments.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Danielle Dandohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDanielle Dando2021-10-31 12:26:442021-11-02 13:14:02Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Dani Dando
Who doesn’t love an adventurous tale of magic and action? I like how the use of magic is so commonplace, but also not everyone is insanely strong – and even the main characters have their limits. I really enjoyed seeing the character development from multiple characters throughout the story as well. We also see a lot of different elements in the book and I loved how it was built into the society in a way that explained some of their world and reasons for certain things. If you’re looking for an interesting, clean-romance, magical tale: this book is for you!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Amanda Gonzalezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAmanda Gonzalez2021-10-31 12:12:012021-11-02 13:13:11The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Amanda Gonzalez
The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book #1) contains the first four parts of The Elements of Kamdaria by Kay L Moody; Ice Crown, Wind Crown, Dust Crown, and Flame Crown. It is a wonderful YA Fantasy- with magic, mystery, action, and adventure. I think it has a bit of an Avatar The Last Airbender feel to the story- but definitely has its own unique identity and originality too. I found the story to be well written and very interesting. I think this series holds great promise, and if this is anything to go by the rest of the series looks set to be fabulous. I am looking forward to exploring the coming instalments and am intrigued to see where the series goes from here!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2021-10-31 10:40:562021-11-02 13:05:07The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Angela Hayes
I absolutely loved this book! The way Kay L Moody has split it into like a 4 part series was super enjoyable, gave me a little bit of everything and made me feel like i got more then just one book. Romance, Action, Plot Twists- it kept me turning those pages. All the Characters were likable, and I felt like I was there with them throughout the different parts. Definitely a must read for any YA Fantasy fans.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ediehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEdie2021-10-31 04:00:062021-10-31 07:36:19The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Edie Kelleher
Even though I am books behind. I was still able to keep up with the story. At times I would even go back a couple of minutes because there was so much action going on. I love it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carisahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarisa2021-10-30 23:52:282021-10-31 07:34:10Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors (Book 3) AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Carisa Saenz
This book had so many twists and turns in it, nothing was quite what I was expecting and I loved every moment of it! I would have loved a bit more worldbuilding at the introduction of the book so that we are able to get a better idea of the hierarchy and people of the realms but the story line does well without.
Talise is a young girl with great abilities but the only permanent escape from the Storm is for her to finish her education and achieve the level of Master Shaper. All goes well until her final year when a new student joins them and his skills rival those of Talise’s.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced and full of secrets the entire way through. As soon as you think you have it all figured out, you will be shocked with new information. I look forward to more books by Moody.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jamie Horner-Zabolotneyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJamie Horner-Zabolotney2021-10-30 13:36:082021-10-31 07:10:29The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Jamie Zabolotney
A story unlike any other. It takes place in the world of Alda. The book takes you through a journey after “The Rupture” takes place. How those left are struggling to survive. The world seems to be dying along with the once lively aldyr trees that were magical. Everyone is feeling the consequences of this as the Elf-kind are dying off, the dwarves are retreating to the mountains and humans are barely surviving together in run down settlements. You are introduced to beings that are worshipped and each has their own horrific power and influence over the people and the world. Each chapter takes you through a journey with different characters that all play a part in a bigger picture. You are then introduced by a dark cult called the Black Gnarl that is exposing the world to all the dangers it has been hidden away from and something sinister is coming.
This book to me held so much promise. A few of the chapters could have been expanded slightly and been books completely their own. The jumping to different characters each chapter and never having the same ones again made this a frustrating read for me. I would have liked to focus more on the characters and broken up each chapter to get more details and build up the characters more. Once you seemed to be able to connect with the characters then that was over and it was moving on to something else. Although all of these stories are based around one event, sometimes that event was barely mentioned and all in all these were all very separate stories. Separately I actually enjoyed each chapter’s story and wanted more from the characters, but feel like it could have been structured better.
I would recommend this book for anyone who goes in almost looking at it like several short stories that have some connection, but nothing overlapping. There is mystery on what is going on with the aldyr trees and learning about the different god-like beings that are portrayed. Also, wanting to discover what is happening to the world and what exactly caused “The Rupture”. I would not recommend if you want a book where you get emotionally invested in characters and character development continues to be important through the whole book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Seeberhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Seeber2021-10-30 09:32:432021-10-31 07:05:59Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Stephanie Seeber
Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors Audio Book by C.L. Schneider Narrated by Cassandra L. King Five Stars!!!
Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors is the third book in the Nite Fire Series by C.L. Schneider (Audio Book) This book can be read as a standalone as I had not read the others and had no difficulty keeping up.
Dhalia Is a half dragon shifter who has set up shop in the human world hiding from her past and its secrets. she works with local Police as a special assigned agent helping with unexplained crimes. No one knows who she is or what she is. Her secrets won’t last long when body parts pile up at the river exposing a dark underground world and it’s secrets that will bring Dhalia all the way back to her past and having to face ghosts she didn’t want to face.
this book is fantastic, detailed, well written characters are addictive and I really enjoyed this narrator as well who was definitely animated and enjoyable.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa2021-10-29 19:25:022021-10-30 07:42:37Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors Audio Book by C.L. Schneider (audio book) A Review by Melissa Saxton
I have read some amazing stories lately. But this one has made me love reading even more! And knowing there are more to read, just makes it so much better!
The story of Talise is amazing. She was born into a dangerous part of the land. With only one way out. To strive to be the best at the academy (elemental magic school) and get noticed to become the Master Shaper! Working hard, training, fighting and sometimes struggling. Following her on her journey and seeing what objects fall in her way! Will she crush them or let them crush her? So good. Go read this book right now!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Stephanie Colleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngStephanie Colley2021-10-29 18:56:442021-10-30 07:14:00The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Stephanie Colley
Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey is the first book in this new trilogy, and I couldn’t have picked a better time to read it! The author is wonderful at writing compelling descriptions and including multi-dimensional characters that it is so easy to slip beyond the pages and tumble into the world of Alda. This is the first book by this author I have picked up, and I am SO GLAD it is only the first book in a series! I am a long-time lover of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings series by Tolkien, and this book absolutely has a Tolkien-feel to it. This dystopian, fantasy story is great for curling up with and forgetting the hours as they tick away. Can’t wait for book two! 5 enthusiastic stars!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christine J. Spulakhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine J. Spulak2021-10-29 18:02:352021-10-30 07:11:51Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Chrissy Spulak
A perfect book for Halloween! This book is a dark fantasy so be prepared to get some chills.
Ahes of Aldyr takes place in a land called Alda which has been destroyed by a sinister cult and the beings they worship. This cults mission was to break through 55 seals to release the creatures and God like beings of the Obscure Throne who quiet literally bring hell on earth. People are being taken and forgotten, creatures wreak havoc on the ones still there, strange plants and smells are taking over cities and the remaining surviors are just doing what they can to survive.
I absolutely loved this book because it is like nothing I’ve ever read before. Each chapter is a different story told from a different point of view and even time. At the beginning it doesn’t seem to make sense but once you let go of the traditional way of story telling you start to see the bigger picture of this book and what the author did. Usually when you read a book its only from one or maybe a few points of view. Which can be very limiting especially in a dystopian story. However Archey told this story from everyone’s point of view. From the cult members, the low and the high society members, the innocent and the guilty, and the different beings that make up Alda. This book gives the reader the imagery of an entire world that has fallen and how it came to be that way. The world-building that came from Archey’s mind is brilliant and genius. With each chapter we see the same world but from others eyes and it created something beautifully horrific. This book is truly a one of a kind and I cannot wait to read the rest of this trilogy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alexandra Leithhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlexandra Leith2021-10-29 12:37:472021-10-30 06:57:50Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Alexandra Leith
Russel Archey’s newest novel, “Ashes of Aldyr” is a collection of short stories, all with a dark fantasy vibe, all taking place in the same location, featuring different characters.
The Land of Alda has been torn apart by “The Rupture” and now every town within its boundaries is suffering. The aldyr trees, once magical and powerful, have all but become extinct and no elf, dwarf or human is immune to its destruction. Each one of Archey’s stories features a character (or two) who are dealing with the darkness in their own way- whether it’s fighting it, coping with it or creating it and in this manner, the reader gets to experience the “Rupture” and the cold-hearted, malevolent beings behind its Creation.
“Ashes” has a “A Game of Thrones” or “The Lord of the Rings” vibe, with its mythical creatures and its magical sects. However, the fact that this novel was a collection of stories took away some of its potential sway and power. I did not get a chance to bond with one character over another, and therefore I was not invested in the outcome. The Rupture itself and its Creators were intriguing enough for me to keep reading, as I wanted to know more of those details, but I could not connect to any of the characters.
Archey begins the book with a plethora of fancy, thick and pretty language, and it feels like the beginnings of a poetry novel where nothing of substance is said, but the words are big and long and flowy. Archey gets over this manner of writing rather quickly, thank goodness, and I was able to become more engaged in the novel.
“Ashes” is the first book in “The Obscured Throne Trilogy” and I’m intrigued as to what the other two novels will look like. The ending of “Ashes” gave some hints as to a potential character who could take over a storyline, but to me, the novel was completely wrapped up in one shot, and any further novels would be superfluous (although I’d love to be proven wrong!).
“Ashes of Aldyr” is a dark, fantasy novel full of magi, elves and humans with magical powers that takes place in a land that has seen an epic level of destruction. There are some stories in this novel I enjoyed more than others, and it was these that I wanted more of. I could not relate to any of the characters as I did not get a long enough time with them to bond, but they were all likable on the surface. The environment of Alda is unique and creative, and the writing flows well. Archey’s “Ashes” checks all the boxes of a fantasy novel, and die-hard fans of the genre will definitely enjoy this dark trilogy.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin2021-10-28 16:12:462021-10-29 07:36:55Ashes of Aldyr- Russel Archey, Reviewed by Erin Clemence
Ashes of Aldyr is my first book by Russell Archery. I was instantly drawn to this book by the cover which gave me the dark and slightly spooky vibes that I love during this time of the year, plus I love most dystopian novels. It took me a little while to get into the book as each chapter tells the story of different characters which made it a little difficult for me to connect with them. However, I really enjoyed it and was intrigued by Archery’s style of writing. Overall, the story was engaging and unique!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jasmin Mariehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJasmin Marie2021-10-28 13:02:382021-10-29 07:30:11Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Jasmin Marie
First I just want to say…WOW. This read came onto my plate at the perfect time for a dark and menacing read during the spooky season. I don’t typically read dark fantasy, but this book seemed to whisper to me in a way I simply couldn’t resist. Ashes of Aldyr by Russell Archey was unexpectedly gripping from the beginning through the end, I seriously couldn’t put it down.
The reader gets transported through several different character perspectives, each one not only haunting but also very well developed. I found myself lost in their tales.
Russell did an amazing job putting you right there in the world of Alda…hang on, because as you read you may find your spine tingling with fear right alongside the humans, dwarves, and elves of Alda.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00TAYLOR KATHALENE STEPHENSONhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTAYLOR KATHALENE STEPHENSON2021-10-28 11:26:422021-10-29 07:34:58Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Taylor Stephenson
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