Blood of Ember

The Crowns of Talam #2

by L.E. Van Veen

RETURNING TO AN UNFORGIVING HOME…

Aisla Iarkis’s life was irrevocably changed the moment she set foot in enemy realms. The choices she made will have a lasting impact for herself, her realm, and those she loves. Aisla is faced with more questions than answers and is running out of time to solve them. With the burdens of the prophecy weighing her down, she finds herself alone on her quest for knowledge to help her in the face of the coming war.

While those around her question if she is their savior or their demise, what conclusion will she come to?

LEFT IN THE AFTERMATH OF THE GHEALL CEANN…

Weylin Myrkor is eager to rally allies and wage war against Eilean. His nights are haunted by the mistakes he made, and the yellow-green eyes that belonged to a female he thought he knew. Nothing has been the same since he promised himself to Rania Dorcas, the Gem of Dreams, and Weylin is desperate to prove his strength again as the Udar Apparent of the worldly realms.

When an opportunity arises to solidify an alliance with a powerful neighboring realm, Weylin rushes headfirst into it.

Genres: Fantasy

436 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 19, 2024

About the author

LE Van Veen lives with her husband and three dogs in coastal North Carolina, although she spends a good deal of time lost in fictional lands. She has enjoyed stories set in different worlds for as long as she can remember and has long dreamed of building her own. After studying Creative Writing at UNC Wilmington, she began work on her debut novel, Under Cold Moons, an upper young adult fantasy novel inspired by years spent dreaming.

Reviews

[Ninoshka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to L.E. Van Veen for the opportunity to read this early.

This book isn't fast-paced nor action-packed, but it moves at a perfect pace that allows you to be immerse in the story and absorb all the new information the characters are learning. The author has a beautiful way of writing that you can't help but to be hooked right away.

I loved that we had multiple POVs. I cared and felt so much for all of the characters and that's rare coming from me. The way these characters are written, you can't help but to feel for them and just feel attached to them. Not only you learn a lot from each one of them, but they all add more depth to the storyline.

Callum and Rania???? I need more of them. I absolutely loved them together. Weylin showed more vulnerability and I loved that. There was a bit more romance in this book compared to book 1 but nothing overwhelming.

The grandmother villainous arc was expected since it was very clear in book one, but I did not expect for it to be so SICK AND TWISTED. She really reminds me of Manon's grandmother. I really hope she rots in hell at some point.

The ENDING!!!! What a way to end this book. It's clear that the plot is really gonna take off in book 3 and I know it's gonna be a wild ride.

This book kept me wanting more and I'll be waiting, not so patiently, for book 3.

If you are a fan of Throne of Glass and Fourth Wing, you should definitely read this series. It's a MUST read if I say so myself.

[S.J. Stiles · Rating 5 out of 5]

AHHHHHHHHH

I loved UCM but BOE really just adds a whole new level of excitement and HOLY COW!!

I loved seeing all of the different povs/pieces coming together! This totally got me out of my winter reading slump!

Every character earns their place and pov! I teared up, I giggled, and couldn’t put the book down (especially during the second half)

Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!
That ending!! I mean I loved the last ending but WHAT!?!?!?!?

Also a moment for everyone’s favorite ethereal squirrel 🐿️

I’ll add more thoughts but currently obsessed!!!

[al ☻ · Rating 5 out of 5]

first of all, thank you so much for allowing me to read this as an ARC 🤍

blood of ember was a wonderful second installment in this budding series. blood of ember is fast paced, so there wasn't much time to be bored! where it took me a moment to find my groove with under cold moons, this one picked up rather quickly and kept moving. it did feel like another set up book for the rest of the series, and i have a feeling that book 3 is going to really really pick up the plot. the multiple pov was fun! we got to experience a few new characters' points of views which added more depth to the story. i felt like there were some moments between the side characters that felt unnecessary, but it didn't bother me, as im sure in the coming book(s) things will all come full circle. overall this book was a great read and i'm very excited to read book 3 after that ending.

[Grace Goldberger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so fortunate to have received an ARC for Blood of Ember ❤️ so thank you L.E. Van Veen!

I have been patiently waiting for Blood of Ember to released since I read Under Cold Moons this past February! I can officially say that Blood of Ember exceeded all my expectations. I found this second installment of the Crowns of Talam series to be fast paced and incredibly engaging. It was so hard to put down! L.E. Van Veen has such a beautiful writing style that pulls me in every time.
There were so many good plot twists that had me gasping out loud!! The romance is perfection! I was giggling and kicking my feet constantly and for different couples!

I will never not recommend the Crowns of Talam series and am not so patiently waiting for Shards of Wind because of this ending!!!!

🧝🏼‍♀️🧝🏼‍♂️🧝🏼🤍⚔️

[Gabrielle Perna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a bit longer to read this book because a lot happens and I wanted to read it slower to make sure I captured all the details. This is the perfect second book in my opinion. It moves slow enough that you are absorbing all the info but fast enough where you don’t get bored. If you are looking for all the answers to your burning questions and assumptions from book one, boy are you in for a ride and all the juicy information!! I was surprised by so much in this second and really really enjoyed it. L.E. definitely did a good job of furthering the plot but setting up the key players for the rest of the series. The first book was a perfect enemies to lovers to enemies and she really pivoted the second book to prove that despite the trope being a main part of the first book it is truly a romance fantasy not a romantasy. I enjoyed seeing Ash grow as a character and that the gang gets back together. The villain arc of her grandmother was predictable but I was not prepared for how wicked it truly would be. The ENDING OMFG I cannot wait for the next book because boy is it going to be even more of a rollercoaster and how and what and why but also loved it. This series is a must read!!!!

I want to thank Realm Archives for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

This continues to be my favorite YA fantasy series!

In Blood of Ember, we get to follow Aisla as she seeks a translation to the note that was meant for the Udar, Ruairi as he uncovers a dark truth that's been kept from Eileans, and Weylin and Rania as they prepare for their mating ceremony. We also get perspective chapters from both Eire and Callum and more scenes with loyal Muinin and sneaky Taistealai.

******SPOILERS BELOW******
***PROCEED WITH CAUTION***
*******LAST WARNING*******

I cannot get enough of Callum and Rania. I NEED THIS TO HAPPEN. I do love that it is semi forbidden (semi, because Weylin obviously stepped out of the mating ceremony, but definitely forbidden because the Udar manipulated the minds of those in attendance so everyone thinks Weylin and Rania are actually mated) and I hope that they continue into a relationship since Weylin and Rania are not actually mated. But I'm fearful that the Udar will find out and I fear for Callum's life.

I am so invested in the gods storyline. We have the prophecy, but the gods are actively interfering, so can it really be considered a prophecy anymore? Now it's a war between gods, played out in the worldly realms (with actual lives at stake). AND the fact that they kept the search bond between Aisla and Weylin undercover for so long?!?

I cannot wait to see where this story goes with Shards of Wind!!

[Ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood of Ember is the highly anticipated follow-up to 2023’s Under Cold Moons. It was a pleasure to revisit to the world of Talam, as I knew it would be (!), and I really enjoyed the introduction of new POVs from characters I already loved from the first book, especially Rania and Callum. The juicy plot plots are nicely distributed throughout, without any one part being overloaded with exposition or action. There is danger and drama and despair, certainly, but there is also romance and humor and hope. I’m excited that The Crowns of Talam is plotted for a five-book series so that I can continue living with these characters and this world for many more years.

[Madison C · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this series, it’s a fresh take on some currently popular themes, and WAY less frustrating than some of the popular books you might be tempted to compare it to. It’s paced well, and all the characters are interesting. You learn just enough each POV chapter to keep you wanting more. The overarching conflict is building really well and I’m eager to see what Aisla (and every one else) do next!!

[Jasmine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am super grateful to have received an ARC for this book!
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Blood of Ember gave me the perfect chance to dive right back into one of the most breathtaking worlds I’ve read of. Each drop of information has me begging for a history book detailing all of the legends, wars, and more from Talam. I am grateful for the opening pages of info to both recap and learn.

Reuniting with Aisling was a genuine joy. As her journey to hero-dom is continuing to build, I quite like her impulses and the amusing moments she admits to flying by the seat of her pants. Getting to know all of these characters more, particularly Rania was beyond exciting. Rania definitely became a standout for me in this installment, especially with (redacted half-shrieked spoilers). I am waiting not-so patiently for whatever could be in store in book 3.

A side-note I absolutely love in this is the attention to detail with those early pages that give you contextual info for Talam. Beautifully designed and nests among beautiful artwork!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐️ I knew this book would be better than the first and I was so right! The story really starts to pick up and we get a lot more chapters from different POVs. If you enjoy LOTR, Realm Breaker, or Throne of Glass, I highly suggest this series!

[KatiEllen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.75 it of 5 stars.

[Susanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was one of my top books of the year. It was even more amazing than the first book and I absolutely loved the new love story we got. LE Van Veen has a way of keeping you on your toes and always wanting more and that’s exactly how I feel right now. I don’t want to wait another year for the next book!! The story was phenomenal and I usually have a hard time when chapters switch POVS but I loved it in this book.

It was magical and amazing!

[Morgan Rae · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5🌟A fantastic follow up to under cold moons! I'm so excited to see where this story goes. The world is rich with lore, politics and unique characters. I love the forbidden romance, found family and the bonded wyverns!

Thank you to the author and realm studios for this ARC opportunity

[Laurana Yasinski · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Realm Archive for allowing me to enjoy this ARC!

This book series feels reminiscent of a few popular fantasy series out there, which has me excited to read it. It took me a while to get into the groove, which was mostly due to my terrible pronunciation of Irish and Gaelic terms. I spent a lot of time on Google and YouTube for help!

After 2 books, I am aching for some romance. I was sad that side characters, Callum and Rania, had their hidden love story before our mains did. This series has such potential for a strong Enemies to Lovers romance (or even a love triangle between Weylin, Aisla, and Ruairi), but it feels thrown to the wayside.

I feel like these first two books of the series could have been condensed and edited into one single instalment. A lot of the exposition felt repetitive, and I could have done without multiple recounting of the same event from so many POVs.

Overall, I did enjoy this book for what it was! It was nothing new or special, but I can see the vision!

[Daenerys Targaryen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was looking forward to reading this book for most of this year. Unfortunately this book fell short of my expectations, especially compared to the first book. I wish Rania could be the villain along with Faolan. Also I wanted to see more interactions between the young wolf and Aislin Iarkis. The grandma villian trope is good but don't really hit the mark. I guess we just need villains to be true villains and more intense character building overall.

[Faith Lingle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve been waiting for this one 😍 4.5

After finishing Under Cold Moons last year I have been absolutely dying to see how Aisla’s story continued! Getting my hands on book 2 completely pulled me out of my reading slump.

One thing I really enjoy about this series is seeing the development of the characters deepen right along with the story. I think that adding in multiple voices to tell this story gave a really well rounded feeling to this book. Bringing Callum’s point of view into things really helped to humanise Rania and Weylin both for me. And while I really enjoyed their story, the one thing I would have like to see MORE of is Weylin and Aisla and LESS Ruairi, but thats just my personal preference, Im and enemies to lovers girly over friends to lovers.

Which i’m guessing means book 3 is going to be right up my alley based on the ending!

The world building of book 1 outlined the perfect amount to understanding more of this book without being hundred of pages of background and elvish history. This book simply developed what we already knew from book 1.

Overall, this was a great read without being the super thick fantasy books that have been gathering dust on my shelves simply because theyre to daunting to undertake. Perfect length and easy reading. The only reason I haven’t given a 4? Well, theres always room for improvement and I’m saving that 5 for something special from the author. Perhaps book 3?

[Utshana · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was absolutely amazing!! I really don’t have much words to describe this book because you really have to read it to understand. I loved Aisla’s character growth in this one. She has come a long way from the first book and I’m very proud of her. Now onto Weylin….booooy I love me some Weylin 😍 I loved how he was a little bit more vulnerable in this one. He held the same firmness he did in the last book but we also got to see another side of him. We could see the internal struggle in his feelings towards Aisla and honestly, it was refreshing to whiteness. I think I love Callum even more in this book he’s such a cinnamon roll 😍 Rania shocked me a little, she really found her calling. I think I have more respect for her in knowing all that’s she’s been through. I wish all the happiness for Ruairi because after what happened to him in the last book that’s all I want for him. I won’t spoil anything for Eire but let’s just say I think everyone will feel a little bit better in the end. We’re also introduced to some new characters that I think everyone will love and I can’t wait to learn more about them in the next book. The third book cannot come soon enough!!!! I needed it like yesterday 😫 5 amazing stars!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Tyler Marshall · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing follow up!

After devouring Under Cold Moons I was so excited to get my hands on this newest instalment! Its safe to say that Van Veen has done it again, this book sucked me in from the first chapter, not only was I so excited to be with Aisla again but I just knew this was going to be a new adventure I didn't want to miss out on and boy was I right. Book one defiantly felt like the best set up for the series and its safe to say this newest read answers a lot of questions but also sucks you deeper into the plot and our main characters lives, which was such a treat after getting to meet them in the last book.

You can tell the effort this author put into this book. From the amazing and vivid writing to the seamless character development that we see through out I cant stress enough how much you need to read this series if you're a fantasy lover like me. I loved how this story flowed and the ending had me gasping! However it once again made me super excited to see what L.E. is going to come up with next and where they are going to take this amazing series. Packed with adventure and characters you WILL fall in love with, this series needs to be on your TBR like yesterday.

[Kaila H · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚Book Review📚

✨OH. MY. GAWD. LOVE. ✨

I read “Under Cold Moons” and “Blood of Ember” back to back and I absolutely ATE this series! There is so much to love about these books. I NEED MOREEEE!

The writing was so wonderful. The dialogue flowed wonderfully and kept me immersed in the world. It never felt like I was struggling with remembering who was talking when and always could feel the emotions of the characters. The story telling was so beautiful. It immerses you in a wonderful world of creatures, magical beings and WYVERNS! Who doesn’t love wyverns? 🖤

The characters were so diverse and easy to love and to hate. There are so many important connections between characters and their role in the story, that it makes it hard to hate even the ones you’re supposed to hate. Weylin, I see you. 🫠😍

Literally the only “bad” thing about this book is the amount of struggle I had with trying to remember name pronunciation of people places and creatures. But even that is secondary to how wonderful this book is. It literally had me in a chokehold. I absolutely cannot wait to get more of this world in book 3!

[Maddy Mehlman · Rating 5 out of 5]

The complexity of Aisla’s journey is what makes this book so engaging. With every step she takes, she uncovers more questions than answers, and the stakes grow higher, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The pacing of the plot is expertly done, and I couldn’t help but feel invested in Aisla’s quest and the race against time.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of Blood of Ember is the romance between two characters. Their relationship adds a tender balance to the otherwise intense and high-stakes narrative. The chemistry between them felt real, and their emotional connection was a welcome addition to the story, offering moments of vulnerability and warmth amidst the chaos.

If you’re a fan of high-stakes fantasy, intricate world-building, and relationships that tug at the heartstrings, Blood of Ember is definitely a book worth picking up. I can't wait to see where Aisla’s journey takes us next!

[Danielle Pulliam · Rating 3 out of 5]

**𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾** 𝑩𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝑬𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒚 𝑳.𝑬. 𝑽𝒂𝒏 𝑽𝒆𝒆𝒏 (𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒓𝒐𝒘𝒏𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒎 #2)

Release Date: November 19, 2024

3⭐️2🌶

This book seemed to wander; however, the characters finally arrived where they needed to go! Aisla Iarkis returns from enemy lands, having failed to acquire the "cure" from her enemy. Her grandmother determines that the lack of a cure to find is her granddaughter's fault and essentially casts her out of her kingdom. Her best friend, who survived being tortured, does not keep track of Aisla, and they seem to not be able to meet mentally after the ordeal they went through.

Weylin does not agree with his father's dictatorship, but he continues to follow him and plan a wedding with his betrothed. Even though he doesn't love her, and he has been seeing the daughter of his enemy when she magics herself there when she sleeps.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC.

I was so excited to read this after having read Under Cold Moons in January and it being one of my favourite reads of the month. This book didn't disappoint either! Definitely read Under Cold Moons first, as Blood of Embers continues the story. Aisla, Ruairi and Eire have already experienced so much and in spite of that, there's a lot of learning and hope in this book. And there are so many twists and turns as the story progresses. Muinin, the wyvern, quickly becomes my favourite character! Read this book if you enjoy: a chosen one, found family groups, adventure, and a bit of inter-kingdom politics. I go back and forth between 4.5 and 5 stars for this read. But either way, I am definitely looking forward to seeing how the series will continue in the future!

[Ryan Tikva · Rating 5 out of 5]

L.E. Van Veen’s Blood of Ember is a captivating fantasy that masterfully weaves rich world-building, intricate character arcs, and high-stakes conflict. Aisla Iarkis returns home to a land that has rejected her, burdened by grief, guilt, and the weight of a prophecy she’s desperate to unravel. Her journey for answers is both isolating and urgent as she faces doubts from her people—and herself.

Meanwhile, Weylin Myrkor, haunted by betrayal and past mistakes, seeks to prove his strength and solidify alliances. His ambition, however, comes at a personal cost, highlighting the complex balance between leadership and sacrifice.

With vivid imagery, political intrigue, and deeply human struggles, Van Veen creates a tale as thrilling as it is emotional.

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! This book felt like a must needed bridge to what’s to come in the next book. You get answers to questions from book one, and you get more alone time with almost each character. The chapters are short which made this a fast easy read. One of my favorite things about this author is that sometimes these chapters end chaotic and I’m like wait what just happened?!
As a romantic reader, I wanted more Weylin and Aisla. We do get another romance subplot but from other characters. So if you’re looking for a lot of romance in this book you may be disappointed, but just remember this is a YA fantasy book (not a romantasy)!
Excited for book 3 to come out because I have a feeling it’s going to be great!!

[Liz Fully Booked · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood of Ember is the second book in the Crowns of Talam series and it is SO good. I liked this book more than the first one, which is saying something, because I really liked book one!

If you like fantasy books with a hint of romance, dragons, magic systems, a great plot, political machinations…you name it, this series is for you.

My only complaint is that now I have to wait for book three to see how it all pans out!

I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kristen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 🌟 An amazing continuation of the first book. It’s so much fun reading from multiple characters POV and seeing how they grow and move the story forward. The characters are easy to love and diverse. Fantasy and magic and a really slow burn make this book hard to put down. I’m already pining for the third story because I HAVE to find out what happens to these characters I have become so attached to and this magical world! Do yourself a favor and read this book!

[Maria Calamita · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED it! This is such a fantastic continuation of the story. I was hooked in again right from the start just like with Under Cold Moons, and every chapter held my interest. The author has set up a truly wonderful cast of characters, and I love seeing this story unfold with them.

I will have to come back to post more thoughts, but all I can say for now is that if you loved Under Cold Moons, this is just as excellent!

[Ashlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think I would ever love a second in a series more than the first, but here we are! The multiple viewpoints kept you hung just enough that you had to keep reading more. The anticipation I feel for the third is unlike any other series I've read. These books definitely leave you wanting more! I'm not sure how patient I can be in waiting... I'm ready for the War and the love that I'm hoping comes to be!

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood of Ember had me in a chokehold, I had to pause reading this because life happened and I would sneak a few pages every chance I got because I just NEEDED to know what happened next.

The diversity in the characters is amazing and the emotional connection to each and every one of them is so strong! I'm obsessed!! And don't even get me started on the ending!!! Eeeek I'm so excited to see what comes next!

[Michael Mateja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story, pacing, and characters. I'd love to see even more time dedicated to world building and understanding the motivations of the gods in future entries. Some of the wording and sentence structure choices could be different. Some predictable and cliché moments throughout. I'd mostly chalk those critiques up to being personal preferences, nitpicks, or simply that the book is targeted towards someone younger than me. Looking forward to book #3