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Throne of Shadows #2
Queen of Ashes and Scars
A grumpy human servant.
An arrogant bodyguard.
The scoundrel that broke my heart…
I'm queen of the ashes... Now what?
My kingdom is in ruins, and I have to find my way back to my throne and my people.
To take back control of the night court, I need my men by my side. All three of them, though they're not exactly on board...yet.
The crown of shadows doesn't care for love, only blood.
Love...is dangerous.
Queen of Ashes and Scars is the second and final book in the Throne of Shadows series. It's a fast-paced, sizzling romance duet set in the deadly Delacroix night court. You’ll love this story if you like sexy vampire bites, enemies-to-lovers relationships, and heroes who love to share.
This duet is set in the same world as Magnetic and Shadow Witch, but it stands alone.
An arrogant bodyguard.
The scoundrel that broke my heart…
I'm queen of the ashes... Now what?
My kingdom is in ruins, and I have to find my way back to my throne and my people.
To take back control of the night court, I need my men by my side. All three of them, though they're not exactly on board...yet.
The crown of shadows doesn't care for love, only blood.
Love...is dangerous.
Queen of Ashes and Scars is the second and final book in the Throne of Shadows series. It's a fast-paced, sizzling romance duet set in the deadly Delacroix night court. You’ll love this story if you like sexy vampire bites, enemies-to-lovers relationships, and heroes who love to share.
This duet is set in the same world as Magnetic and Shadow Witch, but it stands alone.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2023
41 people are currently reading
124 people want to read
About the author
Anya J. Cosgrove
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 7, 2025
like I said…I was bored 🙈
November 14, 2023
Queen of Ashes and Scars
Throne of Shadows book 2
Anya J Cosgrove
Stars:🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
HEA
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
❤️PNR
🩸Friends to l0vers
❤️Vampires
🩸Bodyguard
❤️Dark romance
🩸RH
❤️Marriage of connivence
🩸Forced proximity
❤️Bl00d play
While Queen of Ashes and Scars is entertaining and was steamier than the first installment, I feel like this one was a let down. This one did not quit feel the same as the first, nor was there enough character development (I am talking about Sebastian here. We only get a handful of scenes with him this book and same with the last.) The way things ended with Leo also felt off. He was seemingly so upset about his ex moving on, and then…. Poof he’s magically over it? I understand its implied Leo will *EVENTUALLY* rejoin Arielle but honestly I wish there was more written to the story about Leos change and his apparent attraction for Kennan. This series is marked as a RH but honestly it feels more ménage than RH. I feel like this could have been better as a series instead of a duet.
This is 204 pages but the actual book ends at 184, with the last few pages being previews for another book.
This is a voluntary arc review.
Throne of Shadows book 2
Anya J Cosgrove
Stars:🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
HEA
**Read trigger warnings!!!**
This review may contain spoilers.
Tropes:
❤️PNR
🩸Friends to l0vers
❤️Vampires
🩸Bodyguard
❤️Dark romance
🩸RH
❤️Marriage of connivence
🩸Forced proximity
❤️Bl00d play
While Queen of Ashes and Scars is entertaining and was steamier than the first installment, I feel like this one was a let down. This one did not quit feel the same as the first, nor was there enough character development (I am talking about Sebastian here. We only get a handful of scenes with him this book and same with the last.) The way things ended with Leo also felt off. He was seemingly so upset about his ex moving on, and then…. Poof he’s magically over it? I understand its implied Leo will *EVENTUALLY* rejoin Arielle but honestly I wish there was more written to the story about Leos change and his apparent attraction for Kennan. This series is marked as a RH but honestly it feels more ménage than RH. I feel like this could have been better as a series instead of a duet.
This is 204 pages but the actual book ends at 184, with the last few pages being previews for another book.
This is a voluntary arc review.
October 30, 2024
When I read the first book, I was craving the second book. This book satisfied all of those cravings. The world building was carried on with no holes. The background building was done well for all new characters and each returning character returned with force! The romance too, oh my gooooshhh, the romance in this one took it up a notch.
We definitely got more Alec like I wanted and that man is a dreamboat. Lucas didn’t really redeem himself, but like Arielle says - he’s a sheep. And I’m not gonna spoil anything about Keenan but let’s just say he sticks around and makes a couple things pretty angelic. Leo… Leo is the sweetest man. I’m so glad he’s stuck around. Sebastian gives me all the red flags but he did the right thing for Arielle. Arielle is surrounded by men good for her and she is a fantastic Queen.
I stand by what I said about Arielle in the first book. She is tough and she hasn’t let anything tear her down. She is going to take this kingdom by storm.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
EDITED ON 10/30/24: I've now listened to the Audible version via Booksprout as well, and am voluntarily adding on my review of that format of the book.
I had already read this in the Kindle format, but getting to listen to the audio of it as a reread was amazing. The narration is fantastic and I felt just as consumed by the story as I did by reading it myself. The characters are portrayed so well, and it is super smooth to listen to. I highly recommend this book in either format!
We definitely got more Alec like I wanted and that man is a dreamboat. Lucas didn’t really redeem himself, but like Arielle says - he’s a sheep. And I’m not gonna spoil anything about Keenan but let’s just say he sticks around and makes a couple things pretty angelic. Leo… Leo is the sweetest man. I’m so glad he’s stuck around. Sebastian gives me all the red flags but he did the right thing for Arielle. Arielle is surrounded by men good for her and she is a fantastic Queen.
I stand by what I said about Arielle in the first book. She is tough and she hasn’t let anything tear her down. She is going to take this kingdom by storm.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
EDITED ON 10/30/24: I've now listened to the Audible version via Booksprout as well, and am voluntarily adding on my review of that format of the book.
I had already read this in the Kindle format, but getting to listen to the audio of it as a reread was amazing. The narration is fantastic and I felt just as consumed by the story as I did by reading it myself. The characters are portrayed so well, and it is super smooth to listen to. I highly recommend this book in either format!
October 7, 2024
Needs to Be More than a Duet!
As I stated in my review of the first book of this series, I found that book confusing until the end. Happily, this book did clear up my confusion about who the characters are and what they mean to each other. The first part of this book resolves the cliffhanger set up at the end of the last book, and it's clear that much more is going on than meets the eye. Who is the person (or persons) pulling the strings? We hear about another royal death at the beginning of this story. Are there larger forces in play than just what the princess is dealing with at the start? Aspects of the cliffhanger echo until the end. The team moves from imminent danger to having a space to where the princess-now-queen can think out their next moves and start to put them into action. But danger and intrigue are not done with the queen and her men! They return to their country to confront those they believe may be against them, hoping to discover the villain(s) and put the murderous intent danger behind them. Who is behind it and why is surprising.
Like the other book, this one is also highly sexualized, with multiple partner groupings and even a menage scene. Yes, in this book, the queen has gathered her reverse harem, and they begin to play around with its dynamics. I wasn't wild about the “power play” aspect of one scene, as I do not find that remotely interesting and actually a turnoff whenever it shows up in a book. In the other book, I felt the sexual scenes overshadowed the greater plot line too often; that wasn't so much of an issue here, though a mild element of that here and there still existed.
By the way, the book description, at least as it was on the book review site I got this from, is nothing like the book itself. I despise it when authors try to make a book sound like it's something that it is not, which certainly happens here. Thankfully, the betrayal and lack of trust mentioned regarding her men in the description are not an aspect of her relationship with her reverse harem. It's weird the author chose to focus on this, when it has ZERO to do with the story! Another odd thing is that the description also focuses on her wedding to a different man, not one of these three. That wedding didn't happen at the end of the LAST book and is certainly not a part of this one beyond the repercussions of what happens to the runaway bride and the men who are protecting her. It's almost like the book description is for a completely different book! Grrr! Authors shouldn’t mislead their readers! ADDENDUM: The description on Goodreads is different and a little better than the other one, but it still misleads. The heroine is NOT a queen of ashes (or scars, for that matter, as vampires heal); she is never called such in the book. The ashes and temporary scarring take place in just one pivotal scene. Her kingdom is also not quite in ruins, though that would be the end the villain desires.
As with the other book, I thought the narrators did a good job, but the male narrator's voicings of the villains were a bit over the top and melodramatic, giving visions of them twisting their nonexistent mustaches!
The book ends on a cliffhanger and promises of what the future will be for the queen and her men. I was disappointed when I went to make this review and discovered this series wasn't a trilogy or longer; it is a duet, just these two books. This book leaves too many plot holes and promises; the story has not been completely told. After all that happened in this book, we certainly should have seen the teased-at final scene with the bad-guy former almost-groom getting his just desserts. This book also promises a new and better future for the Queen’s dominion where she, her husband, and her other mates plan to change the way things work in their realm and the outside world in conjunction with other magical and nonmagical beings. The transformation we've seen in Leo, the Queen's First Blood, hints at so much for his character and even the destiny of the realm. For the author not to show us how these possibilities come to fruition in the next book or another series is just wrong! Don't tease at complex, multi-faceted possibilities if you will not deliver them, as it makes for a very unsatisfying reader or listener experience.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
As I stated in my review of the first book of this series, I found that book confusing until the end. Happily, this book did clear up my confusion about who the characters are and what they mean to each other. The first part of this book resolves the cliffhanger set up at the end of the last book, and it's clear that much more is going on than meets the eye. Who is the person (or persons) pulling the strings? We hear about another royal death at the beginning of this story. Are there larger forces in play than just what the princess is dealing with at the start? Aspects of the cliffhanger echo until the end. The team moves from imminent danger to having a space to where the princess-now-queen can think out their next moves and start to put them into action. But danger and intrigue are not done with the queen and her men! They return to their country to confront those they believe may be against them, hoping to discover the villain(s) and put the murderous intent danger behind them. Who is behind it and why is surprising.
Like the other book, this one is also highly sexualized, with multiple partner groupings and even a menage scene. Yes, in this book, the queen has gathered her reverse harem, and they begin to play around with its dynamics. I wasn't wild about the “power play” aspect of one scene, as I do not find that remotely interesting and actually a turnoff whenever it shows up in a book. In the other book, I felt the sexual scenes overshadowed the greater plot line too often; that wasn't so much of an issue here, though a mild element of that here and there still existed.
By the way, the book description, at least as it was on the book review site I got this from, is nothing like the book itself. I despise it when authors try to make a book sound like it's something that it is not, which certainly happens here. Thankfully, the betrayal and lack of trust mentioned regarding her men in the description are not an aspect of her relationship with her reverse harem. It's weird the author chose to focus on this, when it has ZERO to do with the story! Another odd thing is that the description also focuses on her wedding to a different man, not one of these three. That wedding didn't happen at the end of the LAST book and is certainly not a part of this one beyond the repercussions of what happens to the runaway bride and the men who are protecting her. It's almost like the book description is for a completely different book! Grrr! Authors shouldn’t mislead their readers! ADDENDUM: The description on Goodreads is different and a little better than the other one, but it still misleads. The heroine is NOT a queen of ashes (or scars, for that matter, as vampires heal); she is never called such in the book. The ashes and temporary scarring take place in just one pivotal scene. Her kingdom is also not quite in ruins, though that would be the end the villain desires.
As with the other book, I thought the narrators did a good job, but the male narrator's voicings of the villains were a bit over the top and melodramatic, giving visions of them twisting their nonexistent mustaches!
The book ends on a cliffhanger and promises of what the future will be for the queen and her men. I was disappointed when I went to make this review and discovered this series wasn't a trilogy or longer; it is a duet, just these two books. This book leaves too many plot holes and promises; the story has not been completely told. After all that happened in this book, we certainly should have seen the teased-at final scene with the bad-guy former almost-groom getting his just desserts. This book also promises a new and better future for the Queen’s dominion where she, her husband, and her other mates plan to change the way things work in their realm and the outside world in conjunction with other magical and nonmagical beings. The transformation we've seen in Leo, the Queen's First Blood, hints at so much for his character and even the destiny of the realm. For the author not to show us how these possibilities come to fruition in the next book or another series is just wrong! Don't tease at complex, multi-faceted possibilities if you will not deliver them, as it makes for a very unsatisfying reader or listener experience.
I received a promo code for this audiobook, but that did not affect my review.
August 25, 2025
I am so disappointed ☹️ I was enthralled by the first book. The 🌶️ the plot the character the unique take of vampires I was all in and flew through the first and second book in less then 24 hours. As soon as I saw the pages count dwindling in the second book I knew I wasn’t gonna be happy…everything was building to such a major points in the arch of the characters mixed storylines finally getting better grip on how they would all intersect and I knew there was no wayyy the author was gonna wrap things up to any real satisfaction with the amount of pages left…and boy was I right. I’ve never been more let down by a series with so much potential! Just when the reverse harem is being built to make any sort of sense we get a few tantalizing peeks and then just when the story so really take of to sore it just ends to fall flat on its face. I was really holding out hope there were more books or that the author just hadn’t released the next book in the series yet but nope…all that world building and character development just to come to a complete standstill with absolutely no resolution to anything. Leo is made into an angel but sent off to return once he has got a grip on his new abilities to bring angels to her cause and return with his maker..her two vampires mates with her in the meantime to fight to remake the kingdom of the crown she just barely grasped…sits down to face off with the evil old king she was almost forced to marry and everything is building up to the point where she can finally take action to dismantle the former outdated royal traditions to make waves and pave the way for others by living openly and authentically with her multiple mates and just when she’s about to do it the book just ends. I can’t begin to tell you what a huge missed opportunity this is. If I’d book physical copies of these books to read them outside KU I’d be livid. The whole point of cliffhangers is to propel readers into the next book of a series not get them invested only to leave them with the equivalent of literary blue balls.
November 16, 2023
Anya J. Cosgrove's Throne of Shadows duology concludes with Queen of Ashes and Scars. This steamy dark paranormal romance was full of surprises.
Go, Arielle! Before Ari was unsure because she was a newborn and just returned to court. She was so unsure about things and more like a chess piece in a game. I loved seeing Ari grow stronger and more confident while still keeping her heart.
What is happening? The guys totally had personality transplants. Leo has done some long overdue self-reflection, Alec has lost his freaking mind all growly and whatnot, and Sebastian, gods help us, is the reasonable one. Seeing the guys' change in personalities was interesting, to say the least. I didn't know what to think of the angel. Keenan has a magnetism that has nothing to do with his powers. I like him. I'm a bit confused about where he stands but I'm all for it.
The story went by fast and furious. Assassins, mercenaries, upheaval, a political landmine, car chases, coups, murder, betrayal, bloodlines, power, and the juiciest romance turmoil. It all made for a hot read. There were a few unexpected surprises, small things but they made the story that much better.
Queen of Ashes and Scars wrapped up Anya's duology quite nicely. The relationship issues were resolved, the mystery was solved and it was one helluva plot twist. Seriously, who knew? I didn't that was for sure. I enjoyed the story and I'm pretty sure Anya through in an Easter egg but I'm not sure. After this I plan on reading the prequel Magnetism, which turns out I already have so I can jump back into this world anytime I want.
Go, Arielle! Before Ari was unsure because she was a newborn and just returned to court. She was so unsure about things and more like a chess piece in a game. I loved seeing Ari grow stronger and more confident while still keeping her heart.
What is happening? The guys totally had personality transplants. Leo has done some long overdue self-reflection, Alec has lost his freaking mind all growly and whatnot, and Sebastian, gods help us, is the reasonable one. Seeing the guys' change in personalities was interesting, to say the least. I didn't know what to think of the angel. Keenan has a magnetism that has nothing to do with his powers. I like him. I'm a bit confused about where he stands but I'm all for it.
The story went by fast and furious. Assassins, mercenaries, upheaval, a political landmine, car chases, coups, murder, betrayal, bloodlines, power, and the juiciest romance turmoil. It all made for a hot read. There were a few unexpected surprises, small things but they made the story that much better.
Queen of Ashes and Scars wrapped up Anya's duology quite nicely. The relationship issues were resolved, the mystery was solved and it was one helluva plot twist. Seriously, who knew? I didn't that was for sure. I enjoyed the story and I'm pretty sure Anya through in an Easter egg but I'm not sure. After this I plan on reading the prequel Magnetism, which turns out I already have so I can jump back into this world anytime I want.
October 15, 2024
The HFN works but after the set up from book one, I felt this needs a third book to round everything out as I still have still have so many questions! There are a lot of plot threads still left open and some were a little undeveloped; I really liked Sebastian for example but he just felt a little shoe horned in compared to the page time Alec and Leo received and also some of the subplots like Arielle's mysterious on the run sister in law whose story I really want to read. Not to mention the whole Kenan plotline - I really wasn't sure what to make of that as the chemistry with Arielle was there but the ending totally threw me.
That being said, although I didn't enjoy this as much as book one, it is largely because I wanted more. The audiobook was an easy listen and I found it hard to put down when I picked it up and it kept me engaged. I enjoyed the villain reveal and Alec and Arielle were definitely the standout characters. I also really liked Leo's arc and his return to the island (I was genuinely worried about his mum!). I am hoping there will be a spin off as that HFN deserves to be a HEA!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
That being said, although I didn't enjoy this as much as book one, it is largely because I wanted more. The audiobook was an easy listen and I found it hard to put down when I picked it up and it kept me engaged. I enjoyed the villain reveal and Alec and Arielle were definitely the standout characters. I also really liked Leo's arc and his return to the island (I was genuinely worried about his mum!). I am hoping there will be a spin off as that HFN deserves to be a HEA!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
October 9, 2025
This steamy, dark paranormal romance was full of mystery, suspense, chemistry, twists and turns, and surprises at every turn. Arielle has come a long way since her uncertain beginnings as a newborn in the court. She has grown stronger and more confident while still holding onto her heart.
The guys in the story undergo unexpected personality changes. Leo reflects on himself, Alec becomes more aggressive, and Sebastian surprisingly becomes the voice of reason. Keenan, the angel, exudes a magnetic charm that is intriguing. His role in the story adds an element of mystery. The plot unfolds rapidly with assassins, political intrigue, coups, mercenaries, and romantic turmoil. The story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
The steam between the characters was explosive. The cast of characters was fantastic. Alec stood out the most. Leo was a complex character with his feelings all over the place, yet intriguing. Sebastian was a charmer in a swoony way. Arielle was a woman who grew into the royal she was meant to be, but her views rival those that came before her. Arielle is all about change and fairness and doing what is right, and Leo was a great example of that.
"Queen of Ashes and Scars" concludes Anya's duology effectively, resolving relationship issues and unveiling surprising plot twists. The story is well-crafted and engaging, leaving readers satisfied.
Overall, the book is a captivating read with a mix of romance, mystery, and intrigue. I look forward to exploring more of Anya's work, including the prequel "Magnetism."
The guys in the story undergo unexpected personality changes. Leo reflects on himself, Alec becomes more aggressive, and Sebastian surprisingly becomes the voice of reason. Keenan, the angel, exudes a magnetic charm that is intriguing. His role in the story adds an element of mystery. The plot unfolds rapidly with assassins, political intrigue, coups, mercenaries, and romantic turmoil. The story is filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep the reader engaged.
The steam between the characters was explosive. The cast of characters was fantastic. Alec stood out the most. Leo was a complex character with his feelings all over the place, yet intriguing. Sebastian was a charmer in a swoony way. Arielle was a woman who grew into the royal she was meant to be, but her views rival those that came before her. Arielle is all about change and fairness and doing what is right, and Leo was a great example of that.
"Queen of Ashes and Scars" concludes Anya's duology effectively, resolving relationship issues and unveiling surprising plot twists. The story is well-crafted and engaging, leaving readers satisfied.
Overall, the book is a captivating read with a mix of romance, mystery, and intrigue. I look forward to exploring more of Anya's work, including the prequel "Magnetism."
October 24, 2024
Audiobook Review
I’ve got mixed feelings about this one, but let me start by saying: Addison Barnes and Brendan Robert Kane? 5 stars, hands down! Their narration completely brought these characters to life. Addison’s delivery of Arielle’s emotional journey was fantastic, while Brendan’s range with the male characters (especially that over-the-top villain) was super entertaining. Honestly, the audiobook is what made the story so easy to get into and hard to put down.
This book picks up right where Throne of Shadows left off, so if you haven’t read the first one, you might be a little lost. Right off the bat, we’re dealing with cliffhanger fallout, and it’s nonstop action and steam from there. Arielle, now queen, is still trying to figure things out, and her men (all three of them) are not exactly on the same page. There's tension, political intrigue, and plenty of steamy scenes.
Would I Recommend It?
If you're into dark, sexy paranormal romances with a reverse harem twist, yes, I’d recommend this book. However, you might want to adjust your expectations: the story wraps up pretty fast and there are still some lingering plot threads, which is why I’m knocking it down to 4 stars. It really felt like this series needed a third book to fully resolve everything. If you’re okay with a Happily For Now (HFN) ending but still having some questions, then dive in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve got mixed feelings about this one, but let me start by saying: Addison Barnes and Brendan Robert Kane? 5 stars, hands down! Their narration completely brought these characters to life. Addison’s delivery of Arielle’s emotional journey was fantastic, while Brendan’s range with the male characters (especially that over-the-top villain) was super entertaining. Honestly, the audiobook is what made the story so easy to get into and hard to put down.
This book picks up right where Throne of Shadows left off, so if you haven’t read the first one, you might be a little lost. Right off the bat, we’re dealing with cliffhanger fallout, and it’s nonstop action and steam from there. Arielle, now queen, is still trying to figure things out, and her men (all three of them) are not exactly on the same page. There's tension, political intrigue, and plenty of steamy scenes.
Would I Recommend It?
If you're into dark, sexy paranormal romances with a reverse harem twist, yes, I’d recommend this book. However, you might want to adjust your expectations: the story wraps up pretty fast and there are still some lingering plot threads, which is why I’m knocking it down to 4 stars. It really felt like this series needed a third book to fully resolve everything. If you’re okay with a Happily For Now (HFN) ending but still having some questions, then dive in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2023
I do love Anya J Cosgrove's books and this one is no exception. I was dying to find out what was going to happen to Arielle after the last book Princess of Thorns and Ruin: A Dark Fantasy Romance (Completed Series) and this book certainly delivered.
There was also a little glimpse of characters from a previous series, although I would have liked to see both of the main characters from there, it being one of my favourite books. Little things still make me smile though!
I loved Arielle's character, she grew both in confidence and ability through the course of these two books. I enjoyed her relationships with Alec, Sebastian and Leo. The only downside was that I felt that this was too short. I didn't want to leave this world behind and I felt that there was much of the story still to be told. What will happen with Leo? Will she be accepted properly now? How does Keenan fit into it all? I only hope that there's more to come because I really want to know.
Overall another great read and one that I really enjoyed.
There was also a little glimpse of characters from a previous series, although I would have liked to see both of the main characters from there, it being one of my favourite books. Little things still make me smile though!
I loved Arielle's character, she grew both in confidence and ability through the course of these two books. I enjoyed her relationships with Alec, Sebastian and Leo. The only downside was that I felt that this was too short. I didn't want to leave this world behind and I felt that there was much of the story still to be told. What will happen with Leo? Will she be accepted properly now? How does Keenan fit into it all? I only hope that there's more to come because I really want to know.
Overall another great read and one that I really enjoyed.
November 10, 2023
3.25 stars
I felt this book was rushed and the momentum from the first book fizzled out. Characters are going through the motions with not much real drama or angst.
I didn't realize this was a duet and this was only around 200 pages. Honestly I think this should have been a trilogy to better develop the relationships between the characters especially with Sebastian. He's not in the first third of the book and then he and Arielle have a heart to heart about him bullying her in ONE past instance. (that's not what the first book blurb said!) We could've used some flashbacks to actually get a better idea how awful he treated her. And he's professing his love to her in the present. Out of the 3 men, he's the least developed.
Things were wrapped up too easily, namely Leo's anguish about his ex-fiancee and his life prior to becoming Arielle's first blood. Also, Lucas, who was her best friend basically is brushed aside with excuses that he's a sheep and has no backbone.
There was a lot of promise headed into this book that wasn't realized. Disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I felt this book was rushed and the momentum from the first book fizzled out. Characters are going through the motions with not much real drama or angst.
I didn't realize this was a duet and this was only around 200 pages. Honestly I think this should have been a trilogy to better develop the relationships between the characters especially with Sebastian. He's not in the first third of the book and then he and Arielle have a heart to heart about him bullying her in ONE past instance. (that's not what the first book blurb said!) We could've used some flashbacks to actually get a better idea how awful he treated her. And he's professing his love to her in the present. Out of the 3 men, he's the least developed.
Things were wrapped up too easily, namely Leo's anguish about his ex-fiancee and his life prior to becoming Arielle's first blood. Also, Lucas, who was her best friend basically is brushed aside with excuses that he's a sheep and has no backbone.
There was a lot of promise headed into this book that wasn't realized. Disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2023
QUEEN OF ASHES AND SCARS took place where book one, PRINCSS OF THORNS AND RUIN left off. Princess Arielle Delacroix’s brother was murdered, making her the next in line for succession. However, someone is out to exterminate the Delacroix line. Her bodyguard/assassin Alec Beaumont, her human servant Leo Callas, and the angel Keenan helps her escape her pending wedding. Afterward with the help of her childhood bully Sebastian Chastain they set out to find out who is plotting against Arielle and make sure she claims the throne.
QUEEN OF ASHES AND SCARS is a fast-paced read. It is full of action and twists. Simultaneously, the men in Arielle’s life learn to live with sharing her. I would have liked the story to go on a little longer. I feel like there is more to be told with Leo. Unless he is getting his own book, which I would read. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
QUEEN OF ASHES AND SCARS is a fast-paced read. It is full of action and twists. Simultaneously, the men in Arielle’s life learn to live with sharing her. I would have liked the story to go on a little longer. I feel like there is more to be told with Leo. Unless he is getting his own book, which I would read. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
August 27, 2025
Overall, I found this duology incredibly rushed. At just over 400 pages TOTAL, it tries to juggle a main character with her own arc, three different love interests, and a central plot. Shockingly, none of these elements had enough space to be properly developed. Arielle never truly felt fleshed out, she's a girl bound by rules, then suddenly she isn't. The three romances had no depth, literally from zero to I love you in the space of a chapter. And the plot itself felt thin, especially considering both books take place over less than a month.
That said, it was still an easy read, and at times enjoyable. The writing flows well and it’s the kind of story you can get through quickly. I just wish the author had given the world and characters more room to breathe, because the premise had a lot of potential.
That said, it was still an easy read, and at times enjoyable. The writing flows well and it’s the kind of story you can get through quickly. I just wish the author had given the world and characters more room to breathe, because the premise had a lot of potential.
January 15, 2024
Love Anya’s writing, her strong characters with plenty of emotion and passion keep you turning the pages, discovering one’s true self, twists galore, passion in the strangest of places this book has it all.
Arielle was a confused newborn vamp, doing as she was told, until one loss too many brought out her strengths, finding her feet and her voice she takes control of her life, making choices that benefit herself for a change, now she needs to convince the men in her life that her plan will work, can she have her crown and the men she loves? Can she bring change??.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Arielle was a confused newborn vamp, doing as she was told, until one loss too many brought out her strengths, finding her feet and her voice she takes control of her life, making choices that benefit herself for a change, now she needs to convince the men in her life that her plan will work, can she have her crown and the men she loves? Can she bring change??.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2024
4.5 ⭐️3🌶️
This is the second book in the Throne of Shadows duology and picks up straight after the events in Princess of Thorns and Ruin. It is full of action with plenty of twists and turns and kept me engaged to the point I listened to it in one sitting.
The narrators of this audiobook are excellent and did a great job adding to and enhancing the source material.
Highly recommend!
Reverse Harem
Demons
Vampires
Paranormal
Fast paced
Great narrators.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the second book in the Throne of Shadows duology and picks up straight after the events in Princess of Thorns and Ruin. It is full of action with plenty of twists and turns and kept me engaged to the point I listened to it in one sitting.
The narrators of this audiobook are excellent and did a great job adding to and enhancing the source material.
Highly recommend!
Reverse Harem
Demons
Vampires
Paranormal
Fast paced
Great narrators.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 14, 2024
Who has been conspiring against Arielle and her family? Picking up where the first book left off, Arielle has her men surrounding her – Leo (first blood); Keenan (angel); Alec (bodyguard) and Sebastian (childhood bully). Each one plays a part in her new life. Will they be able to figure out who before it is too late?
Twists, secrets, passion and some very hot scenes will make it difficult to put this book down! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Twists, secrets, passion and some very hot scenes will make it difficult to put this book down! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 19, 2023
This second part of this duet pulls together threads which wove into an intricate pattern in book l. Arielle's jeopardy needs a small army, and, lucky girl, she has one! This book is full of polical intricacies, treachery, heat and the search for balance. Arielle's loyal and talented team are more than eye candy. Each man/vampire/demon/angel, brings skills both in and out of bed, which make them a necessary part of her survival in a threatening world.
I liked the differences in each of her beaus, though the emphasis in this book seems to be more on relationships than action. The rich court images and machinations of book 1 are not as present. That was something I was looking forward to and would like to have seen more of. Similarly, with some of the characters, but, overall I enjoyed spending time with Arielle and her harem of deliciousness. 💖💖💖💖
I liked the differences in each of her beaus, though the emphasis in this book seems to be more on relationships than action. The rich court images and machinations of book 1 are not as present. That was something I was looking forward to and would like to have seen more of. Similarly, with some of the characters, but, overall I enjoyed spending time with Arielle and her harem of deliciousness. 💖💖💖💖
November 15, 2025
ok
I wish there was another book in this series- felt like we were left hanging a little. Maybe if more time was spent t on the actual story line not just the sex scenes, it would have not felt like that.
I wish there was another book in this series- felt like we were left hanging a little. Maybe if more time was spent t on the actual story line not just the sex scenes, it would have not felt like that.
November 21, 2023
Reviewed for SNS
Ari and her court are thrown into some very intense situations and I really enjoyed the plot twist. Great writing.
Ari and her court are thrown into some very intense situations and I really enjoyed the plot twist. Great writing.
November 21, 2023
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 5.0
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Ari and her court are thrown into some very intense situations and I really enjoyed the plot twist. Great writing.
~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
Ari and her court are thrown into some very intense situations and I really enjoyed the plot twist. Great writing.
March 14, 2024
It was interesting, but the ending was horrible. It’s like there should be a third book, but this was the final.
July 31, 2025
I miss them. I truly do
August 24, 2025
It's unfortunate because the plot was actually a good one so it should have been longer. It was rushed, but could have been much better if the scenes and characters were more fleshed out.
October 8, 2024
This is book 2 of the duology, Thrones of Shadows. It is a dark paranormal romance. I have liked all of Anya Cosgrove’s books I have read/listened to so far. I will be on the watch for more stories. This book tied everything up nicely. The world building is good, and the characters likeable. I love the unexpected surprises and plot twists. Narration was well done, and made the story even more enjoyable. I received a free copy of this audiobook from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 20, 2024
So this was the continuation of the last book and I just strongly felt as if it didn't go anywhere. Especially at the end, the rh is yet to really fully strengthen. I think there was a lack of character development and after the last one I was hoping for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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