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The Fate of Ashes #1
A Crown of Star and Ash
When the kingdom of Praiton began overthrowing the surrounding kingdoms of Krigor, no one knew why.
As a healer for Praiton, Deya believed that there was no higher honor in the realm. But when Deya is imprisoned after learning an enormous secret that threatens the regime, her love and loyalty for her kingdom is shattered. Beaten, and tortured, a new, terrible power is unleashed inside of her, a power that she cannot control.
Forced outside of the only kingdom that she has ever known, Deya has no choice but to team up with a band of unlikely rebels that all have one thing in the desire for the destruction of Praiton. One of those rebels is Caelum, a male who spent most of his life inside a prison. Having lost everything to Praiton, Caelum hates everything and everyone from the kingdom…Including Deya. But Caelum has a secret, one that could turn the tide of the war, and one that keeps him pushing everyone and everything away.
As Deya struggles to recover from the trauma of her imprisonment, she is forced to face where her allegiance with the kingdom that betrayed her, or with the male who could destroy it forever.
As a healer for Praiton, Deya believed that there was no higher honor in the realm. But when Deya is imprisoned after learning an enormous secret that threatens the regime, her love and loyalty for her kingdom is shattered. Beaten, and tortured, a new, terrible power is unleashed inside of her, a power that she cannot control.
Forced outside of the only kingdom that she has ever known, Deya has no choice but to team up with a band of unlikely rebels that all have one thing in the desire for the destruction of Praiton. One of those rebels is Caelum, a male who spent most of his life inside a prison. Having lost everything to Praiton, Caelum hates everything and everyone from the kingdom…Including Deya. But Caelum has a secret, one that could turn the tide of the war, and one that keeps him pushing everyone and everything away.
As Deya struggles to recover from the trauma of her imprisonment, she is forced to face where her allegiance with the kingdom that betrayed her, or with the male who could destroy it forever.
395 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 22, 2024
589 people are currently reading
8537 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
August 1, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up. “I will break you,” he whispered. “You train with me, and it will be the hardest thing you have ever done. That is the Nodarian way. We break our bodies to build them back stronger I will break you.”
Wheeew, is it really an enemies to lovers if one MC doesn’t threaten to be the end of the other? I think not!
This went surprisingly well for the author’s debut into the adult romantasy genre 👏🏾
There is a lot of pain and heartbreaking trauma. Enough that I am confidently calling this a dark romantasy. Our FMC goes through unimaginable pain and violence…but it feeds into the story and is a big part of her character. There are major TWs for me just in terms of trauma, depression, anxiety and PTSD so read with care! It’s written and handled beautifully though 👌🏾
This story is about Deya, a naive healer who just wants to help people as a loyal healer to her kingdom. The problem? Deya’s kingdom is full of evil shits and she needs to wake the hell up! By the time she has her eyes open, it’s way too late .
After Deya is betrayed, she finds herself in the most horrible circumstances, but the pain leads her to uncover an epic power within herself….(cliche story where the do good, unassuming FMC ends up having crazy dark power? Spectacular, give me 14 of em xxx).
It’s just after Deya finds this out, that she meets Val, Reyner and… CAELUM, our resident Grump who’s also lost everything to Deya’s piece of shit Kingdom. This is a real enemies to lovers . Although Caelum has his sweet moments, I’m pretty sure he really does hate her for a good part of the book 🤣
The romance was good, nice build up and a slowish burn 👌🏾 the side characters were good too.
I have to warn - the ending is quite underwhelming. More so now that I’ve seen the second book is a prequel about the side characters….it can’t just end there? There’s not a real cliffhanger and it’s kind of an HEA for now. But a bit boring if you ask me.
Also…it was kind of predictable. I knew who Caelum really was to his kingdom after the first few scenes. It doesn’t take too much away from the story, but it’s again, just a bit boring.
So why the 3.5 stars rounded up if there was a boring ending and it was predictable? Honestly, this author wrote Deya’s trauma so sincerely and rawly that I almost couldn’t get past the first part of the book. It’s gut wrenching how she describes Deya’s pain. And that deserves some credit. 🥺❤️👏🏾
————————————-
The she go…reading another random romantasy that wasn’t on her TBR. It’s me, I am she 🙃
Wheeew, is it really an enemies to lovers if one MC doesn’t threaten to be the end of the other? I think not!
This went surprisingly well for the author’s debut into the adult romantasy genre 👏🏾
There is a lot of pain and heartbreaking trauma. Enough that I am confidently calling this a dark romantasy. Our FMC goes through unimaginable pain and violence…but it feeds into the story and is a big part of her character. There are major TWs for me just in terms of trauma, depression, anxiety and PTSD so read with care! It’s written and handled beautifully though 👌🏾
This story is about Deya, a naive healer who just wants to help people as a loyal healer to her kingdom. The problem? Deya’s kingdom is full of evil shits and she needs to wake the hell up! By the time she has her eyes open, it’s way too late .
After Deya is betrayed, she finds herself in the most horrible circumstances, but the pain leads her to uncover an epic power within herself….(cliche story where the do good, unassuming FMC ends up having crazy dark power? Spectacular, give me 14 of em xxx).
It’s just after Deya finds this out, that she meets Val, Reyner and… CAELUM, our resident Grump who’s also lost everything to Deya’s piece of shit Kingdom. This is a real enemies to lovers . Although Caelum has his sweet moments, I’m pretty sure he really does hate her for a good part of the book 🤣
The romance was good, nice build up and a slowish burn 👌🏾 the side characters were good too.
I have to warn - the ending is quite underwhelming. More so now that I’ve seen the second book is a prequel about the side characters….it can’t just end there? There’s not a real cliffhanger and it’s kind of an HEA for now. But a bit boring if you ask me.
Also…it was kind of predictable. I knew who Caelum really was to his kingdom after the first few scenes. It doesn’t take too much away from the story, but it’s again, just a bit boring.
So why the 3.5 stars rounded up if there was a boring ending and it was predictable? Honestly, this author wrote Deya’s trauma so sincerely and rawly that I almost couldn’t get past the first part of the book. It’s gut wrenching how she describes Deya’s pain. And that deserves some credit. 🥺❤️👏🏾
————————————-
The she go…reading another random romantasy that wasn’t on her TBR. It’s me, I am she 🙃
May 7, 2024
You can only call these spoilers if you’ve never read a fantasy romance ever. Otherwise … here’s the synopsis …
Naive, sheltered healer makes one friend, but he’s the plot catalyst, so RIP bestie! Angry man with the emotional range of a worm, but who is also sexy and has some defining physical trait to help you remember he’s the guy she wants to bang, enters with verbal abuse that isn’t even clever. Some journey/quest begins. Found family comes along on to throw in some quips and become relevant in a future book. The two MCs have nightmares because that’s the only ptsd symptom anyone knows. He pisses her off so she stomps off - and oops tRoUblE SomEhOw FiNDs HeR. Oh no, scary monsters and rapacious men in the forest! He saves her. They all decide she should train to fight. He degrades and abuses her to “break” her then builds her up. It works, of course. And now she’s prepared, but not totally, so enter battles where they save each other. Sexy times somehow fit in. Then the old, “noooo I can’t love thee! I am emotionally stunted and must deny my feelings!” from our leading fella. Now everyone tells him he’s stupid, one or both of them have a near death experience and sit vigilant for the other. Profess their love … reveal the “surprise” genealogy … aaaaaaand scene!
Naive, sheltered healer makes one friend, but he’s the plot catalyst, so RIP bestie! Angry man with the emotional range of a worm, but who is also sexy and has some defining physical trait to help you remember he’s the guy she wants to bang, enters with verbal abuse that isn’t even clever. Some journey/quest begins. Found family comes along on to throw in some quips and become relevant in a future book. The two MCs have nightmares because that’s the only ptsd symptom anyone knows. He pisses her off so she stomps off - and oops tRoUblE SomEhOw FiNDs HeR. Oh no, scary monsters and rapacious men in the forest! He saves her. They all decide she should train to fight. He degrades and abuses her to “break” her then builds her up. It works, of course. And now she’s prepared, but not totally, so enter battles where they save each other. Sexy times somehow fit in. Then the old, “noooo I can’t love thee! I am emotionally stunted and must deny my feelings!” from our leading fella. Now everyone tells him he’s stupid, one or both of them have a near death experience and sit vigilant for the other. Profess their love … reveal the “surprise” genealogy … aaaaaaand scene!
November 11, 2024
This was your standard Romantasy until it wasn’t.
It’s darker and more gruesome so please check trigger warnings if you’re someone who needs them.
I really enjoyed this story! It is very character driven and not a lot of world building but that’s ok. I felt like the FMC was your pretty average traumatized heroine until she ERUPTED.
The MMC was basically The Witcher if he had exactly ZERO f*cks left to give. Loved him.
The story is filled to the brim with unique magic, an intriguing plot and characters that I really want to see grow. It also contains one of my favorite micro tropes!!!! The tension filled slow burn that leads to the “F*ck it” moment between two characters!
I will absolutely be reading the next!
It’s darker and more gruesome so please check trigger warnings if you’re someone who needs them.
I really enjoyed this story! It is very character driven and not a lot of world building but that’s ok. I felt like the FMC was your pretty average traumatized heroine until she ERUPTED.
The MMC was basically The Witcher if he had exactly ZERO f*cks left to give. Loved him.
The story is filled to the brim with unique magic, an intriguing plot and characters that I really want to see grow. It also contains one of my favorite micro tropes!!!! The tension filled slow burn that leads to the “F*ck it” moment between two characters!
I will absolutely be reading the next!
August 23, 2024
I haaad.... mixed feelings, primarily due to the romantic lead.
Let’s start with what I liked: the world-building is great! This setting feels alive and full of history; it's unique and interesting. Deya is a great character and I loved her growth. She was wrong and she acknowledged that and became a better person. The supporting characters are intriguing and well-developed, which makes them stand out. In fact, I’m REALLY excited to dive into the upcoming prequel to learn more about two of my favorite characters.
However, where the book faltered for me was in the portrayal of the central relationship. I’m all for love interests who have rough edges or who bring a bit of tension and conflict into the mix. Banter between leads can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a romance, but Caelum’s behavior crosses a line. His treatment of Deya is often harsh, with moments of physical aggression that feel uncomfortable to read. He grabs her wrist or twists her arm behind her back, and this kind of physical dominance isn’t something that should be romanticized.
As the story progressed and it became clear that Caelum was the love interest, I found myself dreading rather than rooting for their relationship. The escalation of his anger and aggression, combined with his emotional distance, made it hard to buy into the romance, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that Deya deserved so much better.
While the story itself has strong elements, like Deya’s journey of recovering from trauma and grappling with her shattered allegiance to her kingdom, the central romance left a sour taste in my mouth. It’s a shame because the world and the other characters are compelling, but Caelum’s behavior was a dealbreaker for me.
Anyway, can't wait for the prequel because Caelum won't be there!
Let’s start with what I liked: the world-building is great! This setting feels alive and full of history; it's unique and interesting. Deya is a great character and I loved her growth. She was wrong and she acknowledged that and became a better person. The supporting characters are intriguing and well-developed, which makes them stand out. In fact, I’m REALLY excited to dive into the upcoming prequel to learn more about two of my favorite characters.
However, where the book faltered for me was in the portrayal of the central relationship. I’m all for love interests who have rough edges or who bring a bit of tension and conflict into the mix. Banter between leads can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a romance, but Caelum’s behavior crosses a line. His treatment of Deya is often harsh, with moments of physical aggression that feel uncomfortable to read. He grabs her wrist or twists her arm behind her back, and this kind of physical dominance isn’t something that should be romanticized.
As the story progressed and it became clear that Caelum was the love interest, I found myself dreading rather than rooting for their relationship. The escalation of his anger and aggression, combined with his emotional distance, made it hard to buy into the romance, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that Deya deserved so much better.
While the story itself has strong elements, like Deya’s journey of recovering from trauma and grappling with her shattered allegiance to her kingdom, the central romance left a sour taste in my mouth. It’s a shame because the world and the other characters are compelling, but Caelum’s behavior was a dealbreaker for me.
Anyway, can't wait for the prequel because Caelum won't be there!
March 15, 2024
This book hit all the boxes for me. There was betrayal, imprisonment, loss & devastation. You have a group that escape and have to come together. Hidden identities, hidden truths. A life of lies that has to be unraveled.. training, enemies to lovers, political intrigue and tons of magic!!
This book was a great read, fast paced and I couldn’t put it down! I loved the character development so much between each character and within themselves and I was legit sad when the book ended 😭
Great read! Can’t wait for what comes next!!
This book was a great read, fast paced and I couldn’t put it down! I loved the character development so much between each character and within themselves and I was legit sad when the book ended 😭
Great read! Can’t wait for what comes next!!
March 22, 2024
Rating: 5/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: the closest thing to ACTUAL enemies to lovers I've ever read; snark, wit, drama, intrigue, danger, magic; I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP; this read hurt my heart so many times
HUGE thanks to Victoria K Taylor and Snowshoe Press for the title! My review is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.
"Pain manifests in strange ways, Deya," he said. "We may be out of Ironbalt, but you and I are both far from being free of what imprisons us."
First and foremost and MOST IMPORTANTLY......... I. NEED. BOOK. TWO. NOW. And let's be honest, Penguins... if I could leave the review with just that, I would. But you all deserve so much more than just that, so let's carry on with this, shall we? This read broke me, multiple times and in multiple ways. The sheer number of shards my heart shattered into while reading this would be daunting for even the most hardened reader to try and sweep up. The action is non-stop; these characters scarcely stop to BREATHE, let alone find their footing, as they navigate the trials and tribulations awaiting them. This is more than just a race to the finish line; this is a fight to the absolute bitter end.
This book explores, above everything else, the ways that grief and loss shape and mold us. There is a subtle line that Victoria K Taylor walks in these words, painting a gristly portrait of the world backed up by the strongest threads of hope. This is not a pretty story....but it is SUCH a gorgeous journey to embark upon. The prose is richly purple, descriptive in all the right ways, and ripe with world-building. The characters are lively, snarky, stubborn, captivating, infuriating...all the things you could ever HOPE to have in true-to-reality character arcs. And maybe most surprisingly, this is ALMOST a true enemies-to-lovers tale; so realistic, in fact, I spent a great majority of this read wondering if there was going to be a romance at all to be found.
When Caelum looked at her, it was with intense scrutiny, his gaze spearing through her, as though he could see what was left inside. "It does not matter if that is all that is left," he said finally. "If you fight, you will become stronger. From your ashes, you will become steel."
I HIGHLY recommend this read to lovers of action-packed fantasy, enemies to lovers that actually FEEL like enemies, and richly purple prose. I cannot WAIT to see what book 2 brings--I can only imagine, given the state of my heart after this read, that I just may not be able to pick up all the pieces. The Fates have been foretold, Penguins... what side of the battle do YOU stand on?
Quick Reasons: the closest thing to ACTUAL enemies to lovers I've ever read; snark, wit, drama, intrigue, danger, magic; I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP; this read hurt my heart so many times
HUGE thanks to Victoria K Taylor and Snowshoe Press for the title! My review is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.
"Pain manifests in strange ways, Deya," he said. "We may be out of Ironbalt, but you and I are both far from being free of what imprisons us."
First and foremost and MOST IMPORTANTLY......... I. NEED. BOOK. TWO. NOW. And let's be honest, Penguins... if I could leave the review with just that, I would. But you all deserve so much more than just that, so let's carry on with this, shall we? This read broke me, multiple times and in multiple ways. The sheer number of shards my heart shattered into while reading this would be daunting for even the most hardened reader to try and sweep up. The action is non-stop; these characters scarcely stop to BREATHE, let alone find their footing, as they navigate the trials and tribulations awaiting them. This is more than just a race to the finish line; this is a fight to the absolute bitter end.
This book explores, above everything else, the ways that grief and loss shape and mold us. There is a subtle line that Victoria K Taylor walks in these words, painting a gristly portrait of the world backed up by the strongest threads of hope. This is not a pretty story....but it is SUCH a gorgeous journey to embark upon. The prose is richly purple, descriptive in all the right ways, and ripe with world-building. The characters are lively, snarky, stubborn, captivating, infuriating...all the things you could ever HOPE to have in true-to-reality character arcs. And maybe most surprisingly, this is ALMOST a true enemies-to-lovers tale; so realistic, in fact, I spent a great majority of this read wondering if there was going to be a romance at all to be found.
When Caelum looked at her, it was with intense scrutiny, his gaze spearing through her, as though he could see what was left inside. "It does not matter if that is all that is left," he said finally. "If you fight, you will become stronger. From your ashes, you will become steel."
I HIGHLY recommend this read to lovers of action-packed fantasy, enemies to lovers that actually FEEL like enemies, and richly purple prose. I cannot WAIT to see what book 2 brings--I can only imagine, given the state of my heart after this read, that I just may not be able to pick up all the pieces. The Fates have been foretold, Penguins... what side of the battle do YOU stand on?
April 28, 2024
IM SHOOK
This book was like a wonderful mix of ToG with a bit of light spice. I went through a whirlwind of emotions. I was crying. I was laughing. I was screaming on the floor begging these characters to survive. (I will need a recovery period plz and thnx)
I loved the FMCs character arc, she really went from frail young girl to total badass. AND THE MMC I FELT LIKE THROTTLING HIM ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS but I love him so it’s ok.
And the plot? There was so much world and lore building which I really loved and I felt like the plot was so unique as well!!
📖Tropes: enemies to lovers, found family, morally grey mmc, warring kingdoms, touch her you die, forced proximity
⭐️5/5
🌶️2/5
This book was like a wonderful mix of ToG with a bit of light spice. I went through a whirlwind of emotions. I was crying. I was laughing. I was screaming on the floor begging these characters to survive. (I will need a recovery period plz and thnx)
I loved the FMCs character arc, she really went from frail young girl to total badass. AND THE MMC I FELT LIKE THROTTLING HIM ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS but I love him so it’s ok.
And the plot? There was so much world and lore building which I really loved and I felt like the plot was so unique as well!!
📖Tropes: enemies to lovers, found family, morally grey mmc, warring kingdoms, touch her you die, forced proximity
⭐️5/5
🌶️2/5
March 22, 2024
ARC Review
5⭐️, 2🌶️
-Enemies to lovers
-Forced proximity
-Fae
This book is absolutely worth the read, once I picked it up and could not stop! The character development was fantastic. The relationships built, not only between the love interests, but also the friendships among the others brought happiness to even out the dark aspects of the story. I can’t wait for the next book, I highly recommend diving into this one, you will not be disappointed!
5⭐️, 2🌶️
-Enemies to lovers
-Forced proximity
-Fae
This book is absolutely worth the read, once I picked it up and could not stop! The character development was fantastic. The relationships built, not only between the love interests, but also the friendships among the others brought happiness to even out the dark aspects of the story. I can’t wait for the next book, I highly recommend diving into this one, you will not be disappointed!
July 22, 2025
okay… the same plot-line in a romantasy with some tweaks here and there epidemic is alive and well
March 14, 2024
Wow, if you read any one book this year.. this is the one! For fans of forced proximity, a TRUE enemies to lovers (which I’ve been looking for and FINALLY found 😍), found family, sloooooow burn, elemental magic systems, character banter and low spice!
It’s a little slow to start, but what fantasy book with world building isn’t? BUT the world building wasn’t too much, and it wasn’t just brushed over either. We learn about the whole world as the book progresses.
Once it picked up I had the hardest time putting it down. It’s impeccably written! And as a debut novel for this author I was shocked to find how well written it is!
The magic system is different from that of typical fae books which I am also a fan of! To the characters now.. They are all amazing in their own ways. I felt an instant connection to Deya. The way the traumas & grief is written and played out is so relatable and so, so accurate. It felt like I was right there in the book, feeling exactly what the characters were feeling. Caelum is 100% one of my new book boyfriends of the year. Protect this snarky man at alllll costs!
I don’t want to say toooo much for fear of spoiling the book but it is amazing! It’s full of plot twists, that you’ll never see coming! The ending was absolute insanity and I need the next book immediately!! 🫠😭
It’s a little slow to start, but what fantasy book with world building isn’t? BUT the world building wasn’t too much, and it wasn’t just brushed over either. We learn about the whole world as the book progresses.
Once it picked up I had the hardest time putting it down. It’s impeccably written! And as a debut novel for this author I was shocked to find how well written it is!
The magic system is different from that of typical fae books which I am also a fan of! To the characters now.. They are all amazing in their own ways. I felt an instant connection to Deya. The way the traumas & grief is written and played out is so relatable and so, so accurate. It felt like I was right there in the book, feeling exactly what the characters were feeling. Caelum is 100% one of my new book boyfriends of the year. Protect this snarky man at alllll costs!
I don’t want to say toooo much for fear of spoiling the book but it is amazing! It’s full of plot twists, that you’ll never see coming! The ending was absolute insanity and I need the next book immediately!! 🫠😭
July 13, 2024
Overpowered and underdeveloped MarySue who can’t help but get into entirely preventable situations only to be saved by either a) her uncontrollable powers that seem to be useful only at certain plot points, or b) the white knight of an MC who falls in lust - I mean love - at first sight.
Yet another book with overwhelming positive reviews only from their ARC readers to boot.
Whenever you see a review with lots of emojis, lengthy and wordy writing that’s mostly restating the description, and starts with “IM SHOOK” or “IM DEVASTATED” or “(authors name) HOW COULD YOU DO ME LIKE THIS”, yah those are ARC reviewers and take their review with a grain of salt in a salt water and vinegar crocodile filled bath. As in, they lie.
🚩 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
Yet another book with overwhelming positive reviews only from their ARC readers to boot.
Whenever you see a review with lots of emojis, lengthy and wordy writing that’s mostly restating the description, and starts with “IM SHOOK” or “IM DEVASTATED” or “(authors name) HOW COULD YOU DO ME LIKE THIS”, yah those are ARC reviewers and take their review with a grain of salt in a salt water and vinegar crocodile filled bath. As in, they lie.
🚩 🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩🚩
June 22, 2024
i love when the fmc is emotional bc me
February 6, 2025
4.5⭐️
ate it up 😋
ate it up 😋
May 27, 2024
Took me by surprise!
Picked up this book on a whim because I was bored and it was actually so much better than I would’ve ever expected!
The magic and world building was super interesting and a refreshing change of pace from what we’re seeing from a lot of the adult fantasy romance genre right now!
It was pretty fast paced which I think has its pros and cons. I was never bored but I also felt like the timeline, especially towards the end, was a little rushed. I also think I would’ve liked to get to know the side characters a little bit more! I liked them all but I can’t really say that there were any characters that I capital ‘L’ LOVED (aside from caelum maybe tehe) so I think I personally would’ve enjoyed a deeper dive into some of the side characters. BUT I will say, now that I’m reflecting, there was a TON of world building that got done in this book without sacrificing plot which is pretty impressive! There is only so much you can fit in one book and the author managed to fit A LOT!
Ngl, the slow burn was slow burning, like I literally thought we weren’t going to get a kiss in this book at first and I was here for it but lowkey.. the bag was fumbled at the end. Kind of wish it was dragged out more because I think the reward would’ve outweighed the cost, but I understand that there are a lot of readers that may disagree. It just would’ve been sooo worth it to hold it out a little bit longer 😭 Nevertheless, I really did enjoy the romance.
Overall, I think there is SOOOO much potential here!!! We’ve only scratched the surface of Deya’s and Caelum’s powers and the prophecies and I already have SOOOO many predictions of what could happen! Kind of on the edge of my seaatt!!!!! I’m not sure how many books Victoria K. Taylor is planning for this series but she has certainly set up this series for success with this debut! I am absolutely looking forward to seeing more from her in the future! 😊
Picked up this book on a whim because I was bored and it was actually so much better than I would’ve ever expected!
The magic and world building was super interesting and a refreshing change of pace from what we’re seeing from a lot of the adult fantasy romance genre right now!
It was pretty fast paced which I think has its pros and cons. I was never bored but I also felt like the timeline, especially towards the end, was a little rushed. I also think I would’ve liked to get to know the side characters a little bit more! I liked them all but I can’t really say that there were any characters that I capital ‘L’ LOVED (aside from caelum maybe tehe) so I think I personally would’ve enjoyed a deeper dive into some of the side characters. BUT I will say, now that I’m reflecting, there was a TON of world building that got done in this book without sacrificing plot which is pretty impressive! There is only so much you can fit in one book and the author managed to fit A LOT!
Ngl, the slow burn was slow burning, like I literally thought we weren’t going to get a kiss in this book at first and I was here for it but lowkey.. the bag was fumbled at the end. Kind of wish it was dragged out more because I think the reward would’ve outweighed the cost, but I understand that there are a lot of readers that may disagree. It just would’ve been sooo worth it to hold it out a little bit longer 😭 Nevertheless, I really did enjoy the romance.
Overall, I think there is SOOOO much potential here!!! We’ve only scratched the surface of Deya’s and Caelum’s powers and the prophecies and I already have SOOOO many predictions of what could happen! Kind of on the edge of my seaatt!!!!! I’m not sure how many books Victoria K. Taylor is planning for this series but she has certainly set up this series for success with this debut! I am absolutely looking forward to seeing more from her in the future! 😊
April 29, 2024
After enduring two disappointing reads; one DNF and the other overhyped with deceptive marketing—this book was a welcome change. From the very first page, it gripped me with its non-stop action and kept me on the edge with its suspense and intrigue. Victoria’s talent shone through in her characters—they are as diverse as they are memorable, each with their own quirks and motivations. Their interactions and dynamics added depth to the story, making it impossible to put down. Despite the absence of any mention of a series on A Crown of Star & Ash’s Goodreads page, it’s clear that this book is just the beginning of a larger story. With a cliffhanger for an ending and numerous intriguing threads of plot left unresolved and sneak peaks at a much larger game at play.
The world building in A Crown of Star & Ash is nothing short of masterful. Victoria paints a vivid picture of the setting, immersing the reader in a rich and complex world that feels both familiar and fantastical. Every detail felt deliberate and well-thought-out, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the story. But perhaps the greatest strength of this book is its plot. It’s executed with precision, delivering twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Victoria’s prose is beautiful, enhancing the emotional depth of the story and adding layers of meaning to every scene.
One of the most powerful aspects of A Crown of Star & Ash was Victoria’s nuanced exploration of grief and loss. Through her characters, she deftly portrays how these experiences can shape individuals, altering their perceptions of the world in profound ways. Victoria’s approach is subtle yet incredibly effective, allowing readers to empathize with the characters’ struggles and understand the depth of their emotions. The way she delves into the psyche of her characters, illustrating how grief can consume and transform them, is both poignant and relatable. Additionally, I admired how she integrated the theme of religious conflict into the narrative. The portrayal of the devastation and turmoil that ensues when one nation imposes its beliefs (Our God is the One True God syndrome) on others is both timely and thought provoking. Through the lens of her fictional world, she sheds light on the real world consequences of religious intolerance and fanaticism.
Deya, the main female character in A Crown of Star & Ash, was a beautifully portrayed protagonist. Unlike the typical sword wielding badass often found in romantasy, Deya’s journey to self discovery was gradual and deeply emotional. What I loved most was how Victoria depicted Deya’s transformation through hardship, trauma, and the support of her friends. From the outset, Deya is not portrayed as a hardened warrior or an independent heroine. Instead, she is depicted as vulnerable and unsure of herself, struggling with her identity in the face of devastating circumstances. Victoria’s portrayal of Deya’s emotional turmoil as her sense of self is completely reversed is both heartbreaking and authentic. As the story progresses, we see Deya grow in unexpected ways. She may not be awe inspiring or conventionally strong, but her journey is no less compelling. Through her trials and tribulations, she begins to find strength within herself, learning to believe in her own abilities and worth. What I appreciated most about Deya’s character is that her growth felt genuine. Victoria didn’t rush her development or force her into a mold of the “strong female character.” Instead, she allowed Deya to evolve at her own pace, making her journey all the more relatable and compelling.
To be brutally honest, Caelum left me with mixed feelings. He reminded me of a rescued dog I once encountered who had been brutally abused– wary, quick to lash out, and deeply scarred by his past. Much like the said dog, Caelum carries the trauma of his shunned childhood and years of imprisonment. His experiences have left him with a profound distrust of others and a readiness to strike out at any sign of threat. It’s as if he’s been conditioned to expect the worst from the world. His portrayal as a deeply flawed character is what makes him so memorable. Caelum’s impatience, sudden bursts of anger, and struggle to find his place in the world are all aspects of his personality that add layers to his character. His journey is one of redemption and self discovery, as he grapples with his own demons and tries to find a way to overcome his past. Despite his flaws, there’s a vulnerability to Caelum that makes him compelling. He’s like a wounded animal, lashing out in fear but also yearning for connection and understanding. Throughout the story, I found myself both frustrated and sympathetic towards Caelum. His complexity as a character is a testament to Victoria’s skill as a writer. By the end of the book, I still hadn’t made up my mind about him, but I couldn’t deny that he had left a lasting impression.
Val, Rayner, and Aris were incredible additions to the cast of A Crown of Star & Ash. Each brought a unique dynamic to the story, making them stand out in their own right. Val, with her badass yet bouncy personality, provided a refreshing contrast to the darker elements of the narrative. Her ability to send Caelum in to fits of rage added an entertaining layer to their interactions. Victoria crafted her character with depth, allowing her to shine brightly in the midst of the story’s turmoil.
Rayner, on the other hand, brought a quiet strength and diplomacy to the group. His optimistic outlook on life provided a counterbalance to the cynicism of other characters, offering hope in the face of adversity. His presence was understated yet impactful, leaving a lasting impression on both the story and the reader.
Aris, with his rational and commanding presence, added a sense of gravitas to the group. His secretive agendas and enigmatic nature kept the me guessing, adding an element of intrigue to the narrative. Despite his mysterious demeanor, Victoria gave him enough depth to make him feel like a fully realized character rather than just a plot device.
What I appreciated most about these side characters was that they were given ample opportunity to shine throughout the book. Each had their own moments to contribute to the plot and showcase their personalities, enriching the story as a whole.
While A Crown of Star & Ash was a captivating read, I do have a couple of complaints that nagged at me throughout the story. Firstly, I wished the author had delved more deeply into the magic system. Both Deya’s and Caelum’s mysterious abilities hinted at a rich and complex magical world, but it felt like we only scratched the surface. I found myself yearning for more exploration and explanation of how magic works in this universe. Similarly, I was left wanting more from the overall plot. While the book was filled with intrigue and suspense, it often felt like a setup for something larger. While this can be an effective strategy for building anticipation for future installments, it left me with a sense of unfulfillment by the end. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the groundwork that Victoria laid for future developments, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wanted more closure from this installment. It felt like a huge stepping stone towards whatever larger plot the author has in store for us, and while that’s exciting, it also left me craving a bit more resolution.
All in all, A Crown of Star & Ash was a great book and a superb start to a promising series. Kudos to Victoria for writing such a masterpiece in her very first attempt. Extremely excited for the next book of the series! Highly recommended!
The world building in A Crown of Star & Ash is nothing short of masterful. Victoria paints a vivid picture of the setting, immersing the reader in a rich and complex world that feels both familiar and fantastical. Every detail felt deliberate and well-thought-out, contributing to the overall atmosphere of the story. But perhaps the greatest strength of this book is its plot. It’s executed with precision, delivering twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Victoria’s prose is beautiful, enhancing the emotional depth of the story and adding layers of meaning to every scene.
One of the most powerful aspects of A Crown of Star & Ash was Victoria’s nuanced exploration of grief and loss. Through her characters, she deftly portrays how these experiences can shape individuals, altering their perceptions of the world in profound ways. Victoria’s approach is subtle yet incredibly effective, allowing readers to empathize with the characters’ struggles and understand the depth of their emotions. The way she delves into the psyche of her characters, illustrating how grief can consume and transform them, is both poignant and relatable. Additionally, I admired how she integrated the theme of religious conflict into the narrative. The portrayal of the devastation and turmoil that ensues when one nation imposes its beliefs (Our God is the One True God syndrome) on others is both timely and thought provoking. Through the lens of her fictional world, she sheds light on the real world consequences of religious intolerance and fanaticism.
Deya, the main female character in A Crown of Star & Ash, was a beautifully portrayed protagonist. Unlike the typical sword wielding badass often found in romantasy, Deya’s journey to self discovery was gradual and deeply emotional. What I loved most was how Victoria depicted Deya’s transformation through hardship, trauma, and the support of her friends. From the outset, Deya is not portrayed as a hardened warrior or an independent heroine. Instead, she is depicted as vulnerable and unsure of herself, struggling with her identity in the face of devastating circumstances. Victoria’s portrayal of Deya’s emotional turmoil as her sense of self is completely reversed is both heartbreaking and authentic. As the story progresses, we see Deya grow in unexpected ways. She may not be awe inspiring or conventionally strong, but her journey is no less compelling. Through her trials and tribulations, she begins to find strength within herself, learning to believe in her own abilities and worth. What I appreciated most about Deya’s character is that her growth felt genuine. Victoria didn’t rush her development or force her into a mold of the “strong female character.” Instead, she allowed Deya to evolve at her own pace, making her journey all the more relatable and compelling.
To be brutally honest, Caelum left me with mixed feelings. He reminded me of a rescued dog I once encountered who had been brutally abused– wary, quick to lash out, and deeply scarred by his past. Much like the said dog, Caelum carries the trauma of his shunned childhood and years of imprisonment. His experiences have left him with a profound distrust of others and a readiness to strike out at any sign of threat. It’s as if he’s been conditioned to expect the worst from the world. His portrayal as a deeply flawed character is what makes him so memorable. Caelum’s impatience, sudden bursts of anger, and struggle to find his place in the world are all aspects of his personality that add layers to his character. His journey is one of redemption and self discovery, as he grapples with his own demons and tries to find a way to overcome his past. Despite his flaws, there’s a vulnerability to Caelum that makes him compelling. He’s like a wounded animal, lashing out in fear but also yearning for connection and understanding. Throughout the story, I found myself both frustrated and sympathetic towards Caelum. His complexity as a character is a testament to Victoria’s skill as a writer. By the end of the book, I still hadn’t made up my mind about him, but I couldn’t deny that he had left a lasting impression.
Val, Rayner, and Aris were incredible additions to the cast of A Crown of Star & Ash. Each brought a unique dynamic to the story, making them stand out in their own right. Val, with her badass yet bouncy personality, provided a refreshing contrast to the darker elements of the narrative. Her ability to send Caelum in to fits of rage added an entertaining layer to their interactions. Victoria crafted her character with depth, allowing her to shine brightly in the midst of the story’s turmoil.
Rayner, on the other hand, brought a quiet strength and diplomacy to the group. His optimistic outlook on life provided a counterbalance to the cynicism of other characters, offering hope in the face of adversity. His presence was understated yet impactful, leaving a lasting impression on both the story and the reader.
Aris, with his rational and commanding presence, added a sense of gravitas to the group. His secretive agendas and enigmatic nature kept the me guessing, adding an element of intrigue to the narrative. Despite his mysterious demeanor, Victoria gave him enough depth to make him feel like a fully realized character rather than just a plot device.
What I appreciated most about these side characters was that they were given ample opportunity to shine throughout the book. Each had their own moments to contribute to the plot and showcase their personalities, enriching the story as a whole.
While A Crown of Star & Ash was a captivating read, I do have a couple of complaints that nagged at me throughout the story. Firstly, I wished the author had delved more deeply into the magic system. Both Deya’s and Caelum’s mysterious abilities hinted at a rich and complex magical world, but it felt like we only scratched the surface. I found myself yearning for more exploration and explanation of how magic works in this universe. Similarly, I was left wanting more from the overall plot. While the book was filled with intrigue and suspense, it often felt like a setup for something larger. While this can be an effective strategy for building anticipation for future installments, it left me with a sense of unfulfillment by the end. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate the groundwork that Victoria laid for future developments, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I wanted more closure from this installment. It felt like a huge stepping stone towards whatever larger plot the author has in store for us, and while that’s exciting, it also left me craving a bit more resolution.
All in all, A Crown of Star & Ash was a great book and a superb start to a promising series. Kudos to Victoria for writing such a masterpiece in her very first attempt. Extremely excited for the next book of the series! Highly recommended!
July 14, 2024
okay i tripped walking up the stairs at work bc i could not put this down!
“From your ashes, you will become steel.”
this book was absolutely everything - i loved Deya’s character. she’s a healer in her kingdom that is overthrowing the neighboring kingdoms, doing her duty to the realm. she starts to question the secret activities in the castle, to be thrown in prison & tortured.
her power becomes something she does not recognize & is forced to team up with some rebels to survive. Caelum, one of the rebels, lost everything to Deya’s former kingdom & carries so much anger for Deya.
this is actual ENEMIES to lovers. the banter; the anger; the bullying; it was absolutely perfect. this book made me laugh, cry, and really think through a lot of my own emotions & experiences.
Caelum is hot, okay? he is so harsh & angry, and so broody! It was realistic & relatable the way his character really developed through the story & I loved him so much for that.
the world building was sprinkled in, & never took away from the plot. it was fast paced & the lore was so well done!
I can’t wait to see where this story goes, especially with the powers & prophecies ✨ this was a five star read & if you have not read it yet, what are you doing?! please, feel my pain 🥲 i need the second book like yesterday!
rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️
hilarity: 😂😂
⚔️ enemies to lovers
⚔️ found family
⚔️ touch her & dïe
⚔️ elemental magic
⚔️ forced proximity
⚔️ prophecies
“From your ashes, you will become steel.”
this book was absolutely everything - i loved Deya’s character. she’s a healer in her kingdom that is overthrowing the neighboring kingdoms, doing her duty to the realm. she starts to question the secret activities in the castle, to be thrown in prison & tortured.
her power becomes something she does not recognize & is forced to team up with some rebels to survive. Caelum, one of the rebels, lost everything to Deya’s former kingdom & carries so much anger for Deya.
this is actual ENEMIES to lovers. the banter; the anger; the bullying; it was absolutely perfect. this book made me laugh, cry, and really think through a lot of my own emotions & experiences.
Caelum is hot, okay? he is so harsh & angry, and so broody! It was realistic & relatable the way his character really developed through the story & I loved him so much for that.
the world building was sprinkled in, & never took away from the plot. it was fast paced & the lore was so well done!
I can’t wait to see where this story goes, especially with the powers & prophecies ✨ this was a five star read & if you have not read it yet, what are you doing?! please, feel my pain 🥲 i need the second book like yesterday!
rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
spice: 🌶️🌶️
hilarity: 😂😂
⚔️ enemies to lovers
⚔️ found family
⚔️ touch her & dïe
⚔️ elemental magic
⚔️ forced proximity
⚔️ prophecies
March 10, 2025
I dove into this series blind, and I was so surprised by how in depth this world and universe is! There's amazing world building, so much character backstory ( also in the prequel novella, highly recommend reading that first before this book honestly ) and I loved the pacing! Excited to dive into book 2!
March 22, 2024
✨ Overall Rating ✨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫▫️
✨ Review ✨
As I was reading this story, I suddenly realized what my brain classifies as a great book: one that makes me want to write fanfiction. And every night while I was reading A Crown of Star and Ash, I would fall asleep picturing the characters I quickly grew to love in moments outside the scope of this book. THAT is how immersive and interesting I found this world and the characters within it!
What I loved: true enemies-to-lovers, found family, complex world with multiple cultures and types of magic, lovable side characters, just the right amount of spice for NA, some twists and turns, girl power, love and loss and everything between, very cool lore about different in-world cultures
The stellar world-building and wonderful characters more than made up for the sometimes-too-fast pace and writing that wasn’t always to my tastes; this was definitely a 5-star read and one I will recommend to my friends! I wish this had been two books so that I could have spent more time with Deya—I’m already hype for the next installment!
✨ Fave Quote ✨
“Pain manifests in strange ways, Deya,” he said. “We may be out of Ironbalt, but you and I are both far from being free of what imprisons us.”
✨Rating Breakdowns ✨
Concept: ⭐️
Freshness:⭐️
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️
Main Characters: ⭐️
Supporting Characters: 💫
Voice: 💫
Style: 💫
Intrigue: ⭐️
Enjoyability: ⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫▫️
✨ Review ✨
As I was reading this story, I suddenly realized what my brain classifies as a great book: one that makes me want to write fanfiction. And every night while I was reading A Crown of Star and Ash, I would fall asleep picturing the characters I quickly grew to love in moments outside the scope of this book. THAT is how immersive and interesting I found this world and the characters within it!
What I loved: true enemies-to-lovers, found family, complex world with multiple cultures and types of magic, lovable side characters, just the right amount of spice for NA, some twists and turns, girl power, love and loss and everything between, very cool lore about different in-world cultures
The stellar world-building and wonderful characters more than made up for the sometimes-too-fast pace and writing that wasn’t always to my tastes; this was definitely a 5-star read and one I will recommend to my friends! I wish this had been two books so that I could have spent more time with Deya—I’m already hype for the next installment!
✨ Fave Quote ✨
“Pain manifests in strange ways, Deya,” he said. “We may be out of Ironbalt, but you and I are both far from being free of what imprisons us.”
✨Rating Breakdowns ✨
Concept: ⭐️
Freshness:⭐️
Character Development: ⭐️⭐️
Main Characters: ⭐️
Supporting Characters: 💫
Voice: 💫
Style: 💫
Intrigue: ⭐️
Enjoyability: ⭐️
June 26, 2024
Have you ever lived with a man? How come from one book to another everyone survives on apples and dried fruit? Take a man to the salad bar, I dare you, you'd hear no end to "where is real food?" or "but it won't keep me full," "I can't have a meal without protein" and other such whining. I know they're all farties, I mean fairies, but they really aren't that different from humans in this book, just with magic and long lives, not whimsical elf-like vegetarian creatures the way true fae are kinda supposed to be.
Ok real talk now.
Extremely shallow plot. There's no reason why things function the way they do in this book.
Caelum is a prick. I was hoping (the whole book, basically) that he was gonna snap out of it but womp womp.
Sneaky sex scenes. At one point there's zero progress enemies to lovers that doesn't really make sense. Then bam! We're mates baby.
Nothing made sense. Felt like I was reading a book the whole time. Zero immersion.
Why 3 stars? Cuz I finished it, hooray to me.
Ok real talk now.
Extremely shallow plot. There's no reason why things function the way they do in this book.
Caelum is a prick. I was hoping (the whole book, basically) that he was gonna snap out of it but womp womp.
Sneaky sex scenes. At one point there's zero progress enemies to lovers that doesn't really make sense. Then bam! We're mates baby.
Nothing made sense. Felt like I was reading a book the whole time. Zero immersion.
Why 3 stars? Cuz I finished it, hooray to me.
June 11, 2024
So let me start by saying, I gave this 3 stars ⭐️ because if I was in junior high and looking for this type of genre, it would be great! I won’t say anything else, since I’m NOT in junior high and don’t want to bash it
March 26, 2024
Started off ok but I just got bored and started skimming, the fmc was annoying and I wasn’t for the romance.
January 9, 2025
This book was just amazing from the get go, it just kept you hooked from the first page to the last it was action packed, filled with a lot of drama the writing of this book is descriptive in all the right ways, and ripe with world-building. The characters are lively, snarky, stubborn, captivating, infuriating, and very lovable characters you just root for 😍💕
This is a fae realm, full of creatures, deities, elemental power, and rebels prepared to fight back against a monarchy that seeks to conquer other lands. And the main focus of this tale is on a group of fae who, via sheer happenstance and mayhem, escape from one of the most notorious jails. Deya, Val, Rayner, and even Caelum will all make you fall in love, I swear. Expect an exquisitely written epic fantasy filled with heartbreaking moments, strange traveling companions, tons of drama romance, huge battles, and intensely captivating storytelling. The only drawback is having to wait so long for book 2🫨 ( Why do I always do this to myself, I start a series that’s never complete🤔)
This is a fae realm, full of creatures, deities, elemental power, and rebels prepared to fight back against a monarchy that seeks to conquer other lands. And the main focus of this tale is on a group of fae who, via sheer happenstance and mayhem, escape from one of the most notorious jails. Deya, Val, Rayner, and even Caelum will all make you fall in love, I swear. Expect an exquisitely written epic fantasy filled with heartbreaking moments, strange traveling companions, tons of drama romance, huge battles, and intensely captivating storytelling. The only drawback is having to wait so long for book 2🫨 ( Why do I always do this to myself, I start a series that’s never complete🤔)
July 24, 2024
3.5⭐️
not much really happened, but it was really well character driven, and i'm interested in seeing where the story will go
not much really happened, but it was really well character driven, and i'm interested in seeing where the story will go
July 18, 2025
this book is criminally underrated
4.5 ⭐️
4.5 ⭐️
March 24, 2024
This book was provided as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Out of all the books I've read this year (29 so far), this ranks in the top 3. While using well loved tropes such as enemies-to-lovers or the morally grey MMC, Ms Taylor is not blindly following established arcs, but makes them her own. By fully committing to believable and extensive character growth. While my main review is on my Booksta and I barely use GR anymore, I had to give this book a rating as it deserves its praise to be sung as widespread as possible
Out of all the books I've read this year (29 so far), this ranks in the top 3. While using well loved tropes such as enemies-to-lovers or the morally grey MMC, Ms Taylor is not blindly following established arcs, but makes them her own. By fully committing to believable and extensive character growth. While my main review is on my Booksta and I barely use GR anymore, I had to give this book a rating as it deserves its praise to be sung as widespread as possible
March 15, 2025
This was way better than I expected...pretty similar to TOG, but better
August 3, 2025
Loved this and the audiobook was so good! Ya just can’t beat an audiobook that has more than one narrator 🙌
March 21, 2024
This was my most anticipated ARC review and it didnt disappoint! It was full of fantastic world building, found family, and the most perfect enemies to lovers. The beginning was alittle slow (not uncommon for fantasy novels) but once you get a grasp on the world building it’s hard to put it down. Definitely going to be looking out for future works of this author!!
March 2, 2024
I had the pleasure of both Beta reading this novel and getting the opportunity to read an ARC and I honestly loved every minute of it. It was one of my favorite reads the first time, and a second reading didn’t disappoint. Fantastic debut novel. The characters have wonderful depth and chemistry. She’s created a world I didn’t want to leave and was sad both times when it was over. She will definitely become a must read author and an automatic buy!
May 28, 2024
3.5 🌟
I was so lucky to get an ARC of A Crown of Star & Ash and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!!
Deya is our broken girl who is used to helping everyone else to her full abilities, but getting scraps in return. She builds such deep, strong relationships with her friends and is the most loyal you’ll find.
Caelum is our broody, grumpy, and damaged male protagonist. He’s a Sigma to his core, going through life alone and only trusting himself. He has lost everything and is driven solely by revenge at the start. but maybe it doesnt always have to stay that way 🤪
Both Deya and Caelum have unique capabilities that no one has seen before (not going to spoil their powers but trust me its kewl). I dont yet fully understand Deyas powers and how they came about but this gives me a mystery to look forward to in the next book.
Both have spent time in horrible conditions because of the corruption of their countries, which is how they meet. I love the found family aspect, beginning as proximity for survival and turning into chosen family, with Val and Rayner. You can tell all of the characters are their own people with their own pasts and I cant wait to learn more about them in the next books.
I was so lucky to get an ARC of A Crown of Star & Ash and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it!!
Deya is our broken girl who is used to helping everyone else to her full abilities, but getting scraps in return. She builds such deep, strong relationships with her friends and is the most loyal you’ll find.
Caelum is our broody, grumpy, and damaged male protagonist. He’s a Sigma to his core, going through life alone and only trusting himself. He has lost everything and is driven solely by revenge at the start. but maybe it doesnt always have to stay that way 🤪
Both Deya and Caelum have unique capabilities that no one has seen before (not going to spoil their powers but trust me its kewl). I dont yet fully understand Deyas powers and how they came about but this gives me a mystery to look forward to in the next book.
Both have spent time in horrible conditions because of the corruption of their countries, which is how they meet. I love the found family aspect, beginning as proximity for survival and turning into chosen family, with Val and Rayner. You can tell all of the characters are their own people with their own pasts and I cant wait to learn more about them in the next books.
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