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Trium Perfectum #2
Ashes Fall at Dawn
She doesn't remember. But they won't let her forget.
Kaitlin Gilbert has been taken back to Hallowed Hill Manor. Stripped of her memories and trapped in a web of deception and magic.
She only knows one thing—she doesn’t belong here. But when Finn Avery and Max Gilbert infiltrate the Manor under the guise of Max returning to the fold, they set a dangerous plan into motion.
Kaitlin must remember who she is before Lilith tightens her grip for good. As Finn, Max, and their allies navigate the treacherous halls of Hallowed Hill Manor, they uncover a darkness more powerful than any of them ever imagined.
With time running out and betrayal lurking at every turn, Kaitlin must decide—will she reclaim her past, or be consumed by the future others have planned for her?
Ashes Fall at Dawn is a gripping New Adult dark fantasy packed with portal magic, supernatural mystery, shifter lore, and a romance set against the backdrop of a magical world hidden inside our own.st decide—will she reclaim her past, or be consumed by the future others have planned for her?
Kaitlin Gilbert has been taken back to Hallowed Hill Manor. Stripped of her memories and trapped in a web of deception and magic.
She only knows one thing—she doesn’t belong here. But when Finn Avery and Max Gilbert infiltrate the Manor under the guise of Max returning to the fold, they set a dangerous plan into motion.
Kaitlin must remember who she is before Lilith tightens her grip for good. As Finn, Max, and their allies navigate the treacherous halls of Hallowed Hill Manor, they uncover a darkness more powerful than any of them ever imagined.
With time running out and betrayal lurking at every turn, Kaitlin must decide—will she reclaim her past, or be consumed by the future others have planned for her?
Ashes Fall at Dawn is a gripping New Adult dark fantasy packed with portal magic, supernatural mystery, shifter lore, and a romance set against the backdrop of a magical world hidden inside our own.st decide—will she reclaim her past, or be consumed by the future others have planned for her?
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 24, 2025
12 people are currently reading
101 people want to read
About the author
Kara M. Zone
6 books71 followersKara M. Zone crafts tales of magic, mayhem, and mischief.
She is the author of the forthcoming new adult dark fantasy:
Book .05: An Accidental Faerie Tale
Book One: Cinders Burn at Midnight
Book 1.5: Even After...
Book Two: Ashes Fall at Dawn
The Trium Perfectum universe includes 12 full-length novels in the Soverign City series; three novellas (to date); and a standalone Romance Series in Shadows Ridge (date TBD)
Stick around! You're in for a wild ride!
When she is not writing her own books, Kara works as indie publishing and writing consultant. Contact her at contact@karamzone.com
She is the author of the forthcoming new adult dark fantasy:
Book .05: An Accidental Faerie Tale
Book One: Cinders Burn at Midnight
Book 1.5: Even After...
Book Two: Ashes Fall at Dawn
The Trium Perfectum universe includes 12 full-length novels in the Soverign City series; three novellas (to date); and a standalone Romance Series in Shadows Ridge (date TBD)
Stick around! You're in for a wild ride!
When she is not writing her own books, Kara works as indie publishing and writing consultant. Contact her at contact@karamzone.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
July 4, 2025
Absolutely devoured this! Book 2 picks up right where the first left off and somehow raises the stakes even more. Kaitlin’s memory loss had me on edge the whole time, and Finn? Total heartthrob. Loved the twists, the magic, the found family vibes *chef’s kiss*. Can’t wait for book 3!
Thank you so much to Kara for the ARC.
Thank you so much to Kara for the ARC.
June 18, 2025
“I never want to forget again,”
Perfect sequel to book one!!
Picking up where we left off in book one Kaitlin is back in Hallowed Hill and has no memory of ever going to college. But there’s an odd feeling deep down that something is not right…will she be able to overcome being home again with her evil mother?
Finn cannot contain himself and knows he must get Kaitlin back. As his father, brother, and Max come up with a plan they are able to infiltrate Hallowed Hill. What they were not expecting was to open up a door to a whole new problem. For everyone topside and in the Emberlands.
I really enjoyed seeing Max jump in to protect his sister. Kaitlin is so strong and brave, I hate what she has gone through but so happy she has people in her life that will protect her no matter what. I loved that Finn was a “gift” for Kaitlin at one point lol.
The descriptions of scent was a little overboard in the beginning half. And then a characters real name is revealed and we still go back and forth after everyone knows so that was a tad annoying but easily looked over.
I do feel the story is just okay at this point. It definitely reads as an easy to understand and follow type of fantasy. I was hoping for more depth. But it seems there will be more considering how it ended 👀
So I look forward to the Trium Perfectum series future.
Thank you Kara for having me a part of your ARC team!
I love Kaitlin & Finn ⚡️🐺
Perfect sequel to book one!!
Picking up where we left off in book one Kaitlin is back in Hallowed Hill and has no memory of ever going to college. But there’s an odd feeling deep down that something is not right…will she be able to overcome being home again with her evil mother?
Finn cannot contain himself and knows he must get Kaitlin back. As his father, brother, and Max come up with a plan they are able to infiltrate Hallowed Hill. What they were not expecting was to open up a door to a whole new problem. For everyone topside and in the Emberlands.
I really enjoyed seeing Max jump in to protect his sister. Kaitlin is so strong and brave, I hate what she has gone through but so happy she has people in her life that will protect her no matter what. I loved that Finn was a “gift” for Kaitlin at one point lol.
The descriptions of scent was a little overboard in the beginning half. And then a characters real name is revealed and we still go back and forth after everyone knows so that was a tad annoying but easily looked over.
I do feel the story is just okay at this point. It definitely reads as an easy to understand and follow type of fantasy. I was hoping for more depth. But it seems there will be more considering how it ended 👀
So I look forward to the Trium Perfectum series future.
Thank you Kara for having me a part of your ARC team!
I love Kaitlin & Finn ⚡️🐺
June 21, 2025
Trium Perfectum Book 2
⚡️ Found family
⚡️ Chosen one
⚡️ Brother's best friend
⚡️ Fae/Urban fantasy crossover
⚡️ Stolen memories
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️/5
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Another amazing book by Kara! If you haven't read Cinders Burn at Midnight, you really, really need to. Especially before reading Ashes Fall at Dawn! Because book 2 starts right where Kara ripped our souls out and ended book 1.
This book elaborates on everything we started learning in the beginning. We get more Finn, more Max, more Aidan, and even more information on Kaitlin and the trium perfectum. Cassie is hilarious, the perfect comedic relief, and I actually enjoyed begrudgingly getting to know more of Robyn, too.
There is sweetness, there is action, there is even more plot building than ever before. Do I have a favorite character? I truly can't pick but if I had to... Finn is the absolute best MMC and the lengths he's willing to go will have every reader swooning. He is top 5 book boyfriend material. Kaitlin comes back stronger, smarter, and more aware. And it really shows. I have so enjoyed watching the growth and I hope I get to see even more in book 3.
Lilith is an amazing villain and a scourge in their world but is she the worst?? Read to find out...
Thank you Kara M. Zone for my advanced reader copy! This is my honest and unbiased review!
⚡️ Found family
⚡️ Chosen one
⚡️ Brother's best friend
⚡️ Fae/Urban fantasy crossover
⚡️ Stolen memories
Characters: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Plot: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice: 🌶️/5
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Another amazing book by Kara! If you haven't read Cinders Burn at Midnight, you really, really need to. Especially before reading Ashes Fall at Dawn! Because book 2 starts right where Kara ripped our souls out and ended book 1.
This book elaborates on everything we started learning in the beginning. We get more Finn, more Max, more Aidan, and even more information on Kaitlin and the trium perfectum. Cassie is hilarious, the perfect comedic relief, and I actually enjoyed begrudgingly getting to know more of Robyn, too.
There is sweetness, there is action, there is even more plot building than ever before. Do I have a favorite character? I truly can't pick but if I had to... Finn is the absolute best MMC and the lengths he's willing to go will have every reader swooning. He is top 5 book boyfriend material. Kaitlin comes back stronger, smarter, and more aware. And it really shows. I have so enjoyed watching the growth and I hope I get to see even more in book 3.
Lilith is an amazing villain and a scourge in their world but is she the worst?? Read to find out...
Thank you Kara M. Zone for my advanced reader copy! This is my honest and unbiased review!
June 30, 2025
ARC Review
The fast pace had me hooked from the very first page. The story takes place over a short stretch of time, but every chapter kept me on edge, eager to see what happened next.
I absolutely loved the dual POV. It added so much depth to the characters, especially Kaitlyn, who really comes into her own in this installment. She starts making choices for herself rather than letting the world decide for her, and I love watching that growth. And Finn? I love, love, love him (even in dog form!).
One of the things I really appreciated was the thoughtful representation of the cycle of trauma. It gave more dimension to Lilith’s character. While her choices are still inexcusable, the story helped me understand why she might have made them. I’m secretly holding out hope that she’ll get a redemption arc in the future.
The sibling dynamic between Kaitlyn and Max was another highlight. Watching their bond grow from what it was in the prologue of An Accidental Faerie Tale to what it becomes here was incredibly satisfying. I want more of that bond!
And the Emberlands! I loved getting a closer look and can’t wait for the next book to explore them even more.
The fast pace had me hooked from the very first page. The story takes place over a short stretch of time, but every chapter kept me on edge, eager to see what happened next.
I absolutely loved the dual POV. It added so much depth to the characters, especially Kaitlyn, who really comes into her own in this installment. She starts making choices for herself rather than letting the world decide for her, and I love watching that growth. And Finn? I love, love, love him (even in dog form!).
One of the things I really appreciated was the thoughtful representation of the cycle of trauma. It gave more dimension to Lilith’s character. While her choices are still inexcusable, the story helped me understand why she might have made them. I’m secretly holding out hope that she’ll get a redemption arc in the future.
The sibling dynamic between Kaitlyn and Max was another highlight. Watching their bond grow from what it was in the prologue of An Accidental Faerie Tale to what it becomes here was incredibly satisfying. I want more of that bond!
And the Emberlands! I loved getting a closer look and can’t wait for the next book to explore them even more.
July 5, 2025
I was so happy to finally get to read the second book of this series. With how the first book ended I NEEDED to know what happened.
Honestly, this book didn’t go how I thought it would and I am happy about that. I really enjoyed the book and had fun reading it. I love the main characters as well as the side characters that we get to know better in this book. Cassie had me giggling more than once. Also, Robyn?! Who knew?!
I really try and avoid spoilers for books so I will stop there.
This series is 100% a vibe read for me. I love these books and spending time in this world.
Honestly, this book didn’t go how I thought it would and I am happy about that. I really enjoyed the book and had fun reading it. I love the main characters as well as the side characters that we get to know better in this book. Cassie had me giggling more than once. Also, Robyn?! Who knew?!
I really try and avoid spoilers for books so I will stop there.
This series is 100% a vibe read for me. I love these books and spending time in this world.
June 21, 2025
“Ashes Fall at Dawn” brings everything that happened in Cinders Burn at Midnight crashing down on us in a thrilling ride from start to end with pitch perfect pacing at the helm...and oh, those bonus scenes!
As Kaitlin struggles to find her memories, to rediscover herself, there’s danger at every step. She has no idea what Lilith is up to, and neither do we. BUT the thrill of finding out had me drawn into this book, unwilling to put it down.
A particularly enjoyable scene Is when two characters visit the Magic Tribunal in Emberlands. Because so many things are up in the air and exciting in the rest of the novel, the visit to Emberlands feels Languid and tranquil, as magic swirls through it, brimming with potential and intrigue.
The scent heavy character associations, the banter, the nasty villains we love to hate, and the tension-cutting humour Are like icing on an already scrumptious cake.
As Kaitlin struggles to find her memories, to rediscover herself, there’s danger at every step. She has no idea what Lilith is up to, and neither do we. BUT the thrill of finding out had me drawn into this book, unwilling to put it down.
A particularly enjoyable scene Is when two characters visit the Magic Tribunal in Emberlands. Because so many things are up in the air and exciting in the rest of the novel, the visit to Emberlands feels Languid and tranquil, as magic swirls through it, brimming with potential and intrigue.
The scent heavy character associations, the banter, the nasty villains we love to hate, and the tension-cutting humour Are like icing on an already scrumptious cake.
June 24, 2025
Kara has done it again.
This sequel to Cinders Burn at Midnight continues where we left off and takes us down this rabbit hole of mystery, magic, humor, romance and danger.
Drawing us into the dark side of “Topside” where we wake up with Kaitlin having no memory of the last few months. She’s got a bruise on her face that her mother barely acknowledges, focusing instead on the idea she should drop a few pounds and regaling the fact that her brother Max is coming home.
As Kaitlin rebels in tiny ways, Max, Finn and Cassie try to slowly help her remember. They don’t want to shock her too abruptly. But no one is prepared for what happens.
So very privileged to have gotten to beta & ARC read this story!
This sequel to Cinders Burn at Midnight continues where we left off and takes us down this rabbit hole of mystery, magic, humor, romance and danger.
Drawing us into the dark side of “Topside” where we wake up with Kaitlin having no memory of the last few months. She’s got a bruise on her face that her mother barely acknowledges, focusing instead on the idea she should drop a few pounds and regaling the fact that her brother Max is coming home.
As Kaitlin rebels in tiny ways, Max, Finn and Cassie try to slowly help her remember. They don’t want to shock her too abruptly. But no one is prepared for what happens.
So very privileged to have gotten to beta & ARC read this story!
June 26, 2025
I loved this one even more than Cinders and the Novellas (which is saying something because I am obsessed with Aiden and Max).
I can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
I also have to mention I'm in love with the covers and I want all of these books on my shelf.
There is something so sweet and charming about Zara's writing and characters development while still having high stakes and great plot and storytelling. I really enjoyed the characters and getting to know them more during this one. Although I really want more Aiden and Garrek because I'm obsessed with them as characters.
I loved Finn and Kaitlin's chemistry and the rekindling through her memory loss. Such a sweet story with cute elements. I absolutely loved this.
I can't wait to see where the next book takes us.
I also have to mention I'm in love with the covers and I want all of these books on my shelf.
There is something so sweet and charming about Zara's writing and characters development while still having high stakes and great plot and storytelling. I really enjoyed the characters and getting to know them more during this one. Although I really want more Aiden and Garrek because I'm obsessed with them as characters.
I loved Finn and Kaitlin's chemistry and the rekindling through her memory loss. Such a sweet story with cute elements. I absolutely loved this.
July 24, 2025
So much going on!
This book takes place over a relatively short period of time compared to Cinders Burn at Midnight, and still so much happens! We pick up right where we left things with Kaitlin back in the clutches of her mother, and Max, Finn, and Aiden are plotting on how to get her back. Poor Kaitlin has had her memories taken from her, and her mother Lilith is telling her what's been happening for the last 6 months (which is not the truth). She is also setting up a party for Kaitlin to find a new suitor. Luckily for our friends, she is very determined to have Kaitlin match up with Finn, not knowing that their trium perfectum bond has already been awakened.
Despite Finn trying to keep his distance (even though he really wants to tell Kaitlin that he loves her), Kaitlin can sense the connection they already have. Max and the gang are very surprised to see that Kaitlin is not a mindless zombie like she used to be under the thumb of their mother, which is great news! I also loved the fact that despite Finn needed to 'leave,' he was actually present in his shifter form (a large white dog) for quite a bit of the story, always there to protect Kaitlin. We find out more about a bigger bad guy behind Lilith, one that presents more of an issue to everyone rather than just Kaitlin, and I truly wonder how our gang is going to manage this.
Another amazing installment in the Trium Perfectum series, and I can't wait to see what's next!
Some favorite quotes:
A part of me knows that he's a puzzle piece fitting into place.
Since I know n@ked things about him, lots of n@ked things, I assume I'm no longer a v!rgin. I'm p!ssed I don't remember it.
"Trust me, Finn, if I hit on you, you wouldn't be questioning it."
I'm tired of being too what to do and where to do it. Tired of just letting things happen. I'm done waiting for people to come help me.
"Well, you get hog-tied and thrown into a mvrder room with your lover's lover and then see how funny life is to you."
If you love a story with a chosen one, found family, mental health rep, brother's best friend, protective hero(es), fae/real world crossover, secrets & lies, reluctant heroine, and stolen memories, check out Ashes Fall at Dawn and the rest of this amazing series so far!
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
This book takes place over a relatively short period of time compared to Cinders Burn at Midnight, and still so much happens! We pick up right where we left things with Kaitlin back in the clutches of her mother, and Max, Finn, and Aiden are plotting on how to get her back. Poor Kaitlin has had her memories taken from her, and her mother Lilith is telling her what's been happening for the last 6 months (which is not the truth). She is also setting up a party for Kaitlin to find a new suitor. Luckily for our friends, she is very determined to have Kaitlin match up with Finn, not knowing that their trium perfectum bond has already been awakened.
Despite Finn trying to keep his distance (even though he really wants to tell Kaitlin that he loves her), Kaitlin can sense the connection they already have. Max and the gang are very surprised to see that Kaitlin is not a mindless zombie like she used to be under the thumb of their mother, which is great news! I also loved the fact that despite Finn needed to 'leave,' he was actually present in his shifter form (a large white dog) for quite a bit of the story, always there to protect Kaitlin. We find out more about a bigger bad guy behind Lilith, one that presents more of an issue to everyone rather than just Kaitlin, and I truly wonder how our gang is going to manage this.
Another amazing installment in the Trium Perfectum series, and I can't wait to see what's next!
Some favorite quotes:
A part of me knows that he's a puzzle piece fitting into place.
Since I know n@ked things about him, lots of n@ked things, I assume I'm no longer a v!rgin. I'm p!ssed I don't remember it.
"Trust me, Finn, if I hit on you, you wouldn't be questioning it."
I'm tired of being too what to do and where to do it. Tired of just letting things happen. I'm done waiting for people to come help me.
"Well, you get hog-tied and thrown into a mvrder room with your lover's lover and then see how funny life is to you."
If you love a story with a chosen one, found family, mental health rep, brother's best friend, protective hero(es), fae/real world crossover, secrets & lies, reluctant heroine, and stolen memories, check out Ashes Fall at Dawn and the rest of this amazing series so far!
I received an advanced review copy for free. This review contains my honest opinion and is being left voluntarily.
June 25, 2025
“Ashes Fall at Dawn”, the second installment in Kara M. Zone’s “Trium Perfectum”series, not only meets the high expectations set by its predecessor but surpasses them, delivering a gripping New Adult Fantasy that deepens the stakes, expands the world, and ensnares the reader in its chilling grasp.
This time, Kaitlin is thrust back into her childhood home, and back into the clutches of the merciless Lilith, with no memory of the past months. The horrors of Lilith’s reign are laid bare as we uncover the extent of her atrocities: she doesn’t just exploit Kaitlin’s magic but feeds on the stolen power of countless others. And yet, as sinister as Lilith is, she may not even be the true villain of this tale.
The returning cast shines brighter than ever. Kaitlin faces her most brutal battle yet, fighting not just for survival but for the fragments of her stolen past. Max evolves into a fiercely protective brother, while Finn, the devoted shapeshifter, proves himself as both a partner and a pillar of strength, their special bond a light in the encroaching darkness. Aiden, Cassie and Robyn add compelling depth, while the detestable Jacob looms as a villain readers will love to hate. And there are new characters who look set to play an ever increasing role as the story progresses.
Zone masterfully weaves an atmosphere of suffocating dread, each chapter escalating the tension as Kaitlin is hurled from one nightmare to the next. Revelations abound, yet the shadows still hold secrets,culminating in a cliffhanger that left me breathless and desperate for Book Three.
If you crave fantasy with emotional weight, relentless stakes, and characters that linger long after the final page, “Ashes Fall at Dawn” is an unmissable sequel. Kara M. Zone has cemented herself as a must-read author in the genre.
This time, Kaitlin is thrust back into her childhood home, and back into the clutches of the merciless Lilith, with no memory of the past months. The horrors of Lilith’s reign are laid bare as we uncover the extent of her atrocities: she doesn’t just exploit Kaitlin’s magic but feeds on the stolen power of countless others. And yet, as sinister as Lilith is, she may not even be the true villain of this tale.
The returning cast shines brighter than ever. Kaitlin faces her most brutal battle yet, fighting not just for survival but for the fragments of her stolen past. Max evolves into a fiercely protective brother, while Finn, the devoted shapeshifter, proves himself as both a partner and a pillar of strength, their special bond a light in the encroaching darkness. Aiden, Cassie and Robyn add compelling depth, while the detestable Jacob looms as a villain readers will love to hate. And there are new characters who look set to play an ever increasing role as the story progresses.
Zone masterfully weaves an atmosphere of suffocating dread, each chapter escalating the tension as Kaitlin is hurled from one nightmare to the next. Revelations abound, yet the shadows still hold secrets,culminating in a cliffhanger that left me breathless and desperate for Book Three.
If you crave fantasy with emotional weight, relentless stakes, and characters that linger long after the final page, “Ashes Fall at Dawn” is an unmissable sequel. Kara M. Zone has cemented herself as a must-read author in the genre.
June 24, 2025
⚡️ARC Review⚡️
The second book in the Trium Perfectum series, Ashes Fall at Dawn, takes everything I loved about Cinders Burn at Midnight and turns the volume all the way up. The stakes are higher, the shadows deeper, and the tension? Unbearably good.
We return to a world of veiled magic and dark secrets, where memory is a weapon, and trust is a luxury no one can afford. Kaitlin’s amnesia adds a layer of mystery as she’s pulled back into Hallowed Hill Manor, a place pulsing with power, manipulation, and danger.
And let’s talk atmosphere: this book drips with witchy vibes. From ancient spells and secret halls to creeping dread and magical traps, the setting feels alive, enchanted, and deeply haunting. I was hooked from page one.
The slow-burn romance simmers under the surface, intense, complicated, and full of longing and the brother’s best friend trope had me screaming (in the best way). Finn and Max are both compelling in different ways, and watching their dynamic shift in such a tense, high-stakes environment kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Expect:
🌑 A reluctant heroine with stolen memories
🌕 Protective heroes and complicated loyalties
✨ Fae meets real-world crossover
🖤 Found family
🔥 Open-door steam
🔐 Secrets, betrayal, and magic that cuts deep
Ashes Fall at Dawn is an edge-of-your-seat installment that delivers on the promise of book one while setting the stage for even more chaos to come.
Fans of dark fantasy, slow-burn romance, and morally gray magic will absolutely devour this.
Witchy, wild, and wonderfully tense. I’m ready for the next one!
The second book in the Trium Perfectum series, Ashes Fall at Dawn, takes everything I loved about Cinders Burn at Midnight and turns the volume all the way up. The stakes are higher, the shadows deeper, and the tension? Unbearably good.
We return to a world of veiled magic and dark secrets, where memory is a weapon, and trust is a luxury no one can afford. Kaitlin’s amnesia adds a layer of mystery as she’s pulled back into Hallowed Hill Manor, a place pulsing with power, manipulation, and danger.
And let’s talk atmosphere: this book drips with witchy vibes. From ancient spells and secret halls to creeping dread and magical traps, the setting feels alive, enchanted, and deeply haunting. I was hooked from page one.
The slow-burn romance simmers under the surface, intense, complicated, and full of longing and the brother’s best friend trope had me screaming (in the best way). Finn and Max are both compelling in different ways, and watching their dynamic shift in such a tense, high-stakes environment kept me turning the pages late into the night.
Expect:
🌑 A reluctant heroine with stolen memories
🌕 Protective heroes and complicated loyalties
✨ Fae meets real-world crossover
🖤 Found family
🔥 Open-door steam
🔐 Secrets, betrayal, and magic that cuts deep
Ashes Fall at Dawn is an edge-of-your-seat installment that delivers on the promise of book one while setting the stage for even more chaos to come.
Fans of dark fantasy, slow-burn romance, and morally gray magic will absolutely devour this.
Witchy, wild, and wonderfully tense. I’m ready for the next one!
July 9, 2025
Just released this week and if you haven’t read Cinders Burn at Midnight, this is the second book in the Trium Perfectum series so heads up if you care about that.
I was so excited to see where Kaitlin ended up after the devastating at end of Cinders Burn at Midnight! I like that we are peeling the layers back and can’t wait to see more of Kaitlin, Finn, Max, Aiden and the whole gang again:)
In book 1 Kaitlin finally got away from her house and is able to have a somewhat more independent life. She immediately is trying to cope with dreams that confuse her. On top of starting school she’s dealing with a broken relationship with her brother, his hot twin friends that have enamored her, an arranged marriage to a tool, an absent father, a controlling mother, a weird roommate, and her unfortunate condition. Sounds fun right??
Now we pick up in the middle of a romance that Amy have ended before it ever started, and more questions than answers. But it was fun digging into the answers alongside Kaitlin and her friends. Given the amount of chaos and abuse and confusion that Kaitlin faces she honestly comes out on top with her head held high. She’s a lot stronger than anyone in the book (besides her friends) give her credit for. I love that she is strong and able to keep going, and that she finds a support system to help.
There is Magic and Fae, shifters, mind readers, power wielders, family hardships, found family, betrayal, and of course the main trope is memory loss or black outs. And duel POV, which I love:) and there’s a bit of a steamy romance (low spice).
I was so excited to see where Kaitlin ended up after the devastating at end of Cinders Burn at Midnight! I like that we are peeling the layers back and can’t wait to see more of Kaitlin, Finn, Max, Aiden and the whole gang again:)
In book 1 Kaitlin finally got away from her house and is able to have a somewhat more independent life. She immediately is trying to cope with dreams that confuse her. On top of starting school she’s dealing with a broken relationship with her brother, his hot twin friends that have enamored her, an arranged marriage to a tool, an absent father, a controlling mother, a weird roommate, and her unfortunate condition. Sounds fun right??
Now we pick up in the middle of a romance that Amy have ended before it ever started, and more questions than answers. But it was fun digging into the answers alongside Kaitlin and her friends. Given the amount of chaos and abuse and confusion that Kaitlin faces she honestly comes out on top with her head held high. She’s a lot stronger than anyone in the book (besides her friends) give her credit for. I love that she is strong and able to keep going, and that she finds a support system to help.
There is Magic and Fae, shifters, mind readers, power wielders, family hardships, found family, betrayal, and of course the main trope is memory loss or black outs. And duel POV, which I love:) and there’s a bit of a steamy romance (low spice).
June 25, 2025
The second book in the series picks up almost exactly where book one left off. (Thankfully bc that ending to book one was ROUGH.) I got sucked right back into this universe, immediately. Small details from the first book started to come to light in AFAD and it all gets pulled together beautifully.
Kaitlin is such a strong FMC. After everything she was put through she still pushes against everything her mother tried to instill. I’m so happy with where her story line went and how she really came into herself in this book. A heavy dose of found family between Kaitlin and her friends from college. The way they came rushing to her rescue, even if she didn’t remember them WAS EVERYTHING in my heart.
I’m so, so glad that Kaitlin and her brother, Max, forged the strong bond they did in book one. In his big brother protection era. 🤍
Kaitlin and Finns relationship blossomed beautifully between the pages. The fact he was a “gift” to her had me chuckling.. (I want a shifter pet wolf/dog too!) The lengths he went through to try to protect her was swoon worthy.
Cassie and Robyn (even though I still don’t trust her) had me cracking upppppppp many times. We love some comedic relief in some intense moments.
“Alright, everyone. If you step on the shadows, you’ll get sucked into an immediate, agonizing death. Who wants to go first?” 👀😂
Overall I really enjoyed being back in this world and I am thinking this won’t be the last time we see some of this world if the ending has any say to it.
::Tropes::
⚡️Urban Fantasy
🐺 Shifters
⚡️ Mystery
🐺 Portal Magic
⚡️ Supernatural
🐺 Found Family
Kaitlin is such a strong FMC. After everything she was put through she still pushes against everything her mother tried to instill. I’m so happy with where her story line went and how she really came into herself in this book. A heavy dose of found family between Kaitlin and her friends from college. The way they came rushing to her rescue, even if she didn’t remember them WAS EVERYTHING in my heart.
I’m so, so glad that Kaitlin and her brother, Max, forged the strong bond they did in book one. In his big brother protection era. 🤍
Kaitlin and Finns relationship blossomed beautifully between the pages. The fact he was a “gift” to her had me chuckling.. (I want a shifter pet wolf/dog too!) The lengths he went through to try to protect her was swoon worthy.
Cassie and Robyn (even though I still don’t trust her) had me cracking upppppppp many times. We love some comedic relief in some intense moments.
“Alright, everyone. If you step on the shadows, you’ll get sucked into an immediate, agonizing death. Who wants to go first?” 👀😂
Overall I really enjoyed being back in this world and I am thinking this won’t be the last time we see some of this world if the ending has any say to it.
::Tropes::
⚡️Urban Fantasy
🐺 Shifters
⚡️ Mystery
🐺 Portal Magic
⚡️ Supernatural
🐺 Found Family
July 6, 2025
Let me just tell you holy cow this book was amazing! I did read cinders burn at midnight first and I'm so glad I did cause this book was just that much more mind blowing. I am now truly obsessed with Kara M. Zone books. This book gave more details into the characters of the first book which I was so grateful for cuz there were a few cliffhangers in relationships that I was kind of really wanting to know how things were. I'm super proud of Kaitlyn I feel like she really came to her true form in this book. I super duper Love The sibling relationship I feel like it's something that's real because you know how sometimes in books you read about siblings and it's more of like the stereotypical type of relationship instead of an actual true relationship and I love that about her books it's more of a down to Earth realistic type of form. I do love how trauma is talked about in this book and how trauma is dealt with. I have read a lot of books currently that have trauma in them and I feel like it's rushed through and not properly dealt with where in this book I feel like it was truly acknowledged and dealt with in such a great way. I do love me some Finn he is an amazing MMC I even love him when he took the form of a dog. The Emberlands were amazing! All in All Kara M. Zone is an absolutely amazing author and I can't wait to see what she writes in the future.
June 25, 2025
This is book two in the Trium Perfectum series and it picks up right where book 1 left of. Kaitlyn is back with her mother and grandmother having no memories of the past 3-4 months. Her mother refers to these as her “blackouts”. Kaitlyn keeps having flashbacks of those missing months but is having a hard time piecing it all together. Finn desperately wants to save Kaitlyn and break her free but he has to play by Lilliths games and rules first. With the help of Max, Aiden, Cassie, and Philip they must devise a plan that will lead them to rescuing Kaitlyn.
Mixing the real work with the fae world is a challenge but Kara M Zone does a great job at explaining how it works. We even get some characters that we met In An Accidental Faerie Tale. I love the dual POV of Kaitlyn and Finn because it gives us insight into what they both are thinking and feeling.
One thing to note is that there are instances of drugging and SA attempts that are graphic and vulgar (not by FMC or MMC). Please look at possible trigger warnings if you are concerned!
I am grateful to the author for being able to ARC read this novel. I love this series so far and I’m excited to see what happens next.
Mixing the real work with the fae world is a challenge but Kara M Zone does a great job at explaining how it works. We even get some characters that we met In An Accidental Faerie Tale. I love the dual POV of Kaitlyn and Finn because it gives us insight into what they both are thinking and feeling.
One thing to note is that there are instances of drugging and SA attempts that are graphic and vulgar (not by FMC or MMC). Please look at possible trigger warnings if you are concerned!
I am grateful to the author for being able to ARC read this novel. I love this series so far and I’m excited to see what happens next.
June 16, 2025
Review: Ashes Fall at Dawn by Kara M. Zone
Ashes Fall at Dawn is the second installment in the Trium Perfectum universe, and I really appreciate how Kara M. Zone skips the slow, drawn-out recap and plunges right back into the story. No filler here! Just intense action, drama, and meaningful moments that keep you hooked.
The romance between Finn and Kaitlin continues to be genuinely sweet, but what truly stood out to me was the found family dynamic. The characters’ unwavering loyalty and support for each other added real emotional depth and warmth to the story.
My only wish? More page time for Garrek and Aiden—they’ve quickly become my favorites, and I was craving more of their story in this book.
Ashes Fall at Dawn delivered some jaw-dropping twists that had me yelling at the pages (in the best way). 🤯 I devoured it in record time, and now I’m just sitting here, emotionally unwell, wondering how I’m supposed to function until the next one drops.
Essentially, if you're not already on the Trium Perfectum train, what are you doing??
Ashes Fall at Dawn is the second installment in the Trium Perfectum universe, and I really appreciate how Kara M. Zone skips the slow, drawn-out recap and plunges right back into the story. No filler here! Just intense action, drama, and meaningful moments that keep you hooked.
The romance between Finn and Kaitlin continues to be genuinely sweet, but what truly stood out to me was the found family dynamic. The characters’ unwavering loyalty and support for each other added real emotional depth and warmth to the story.
My only wish? More page time for Garrek and Aiden—they’ve quickly become my favorites, and I was craving more of their story in this book.
Ashes Fall at Dawn delivered some jaw-dropping twists that had me yelling at the pages (in the best way). 🤯 I devoured it in record time, and now I’m just sitting here, emotionally unwell, wondering how I’m supposed to function until the next one drops.
Essentially, if you're not already on the Trium Perfectum train, what are you doing??
June 14, 2025
Ashes Fall At Dawn is an excellent second installment to the Trium Perfectum series! We pick up right where book 1 left us on that cliff and the intensity builds!
I really enjoy the world that Kara M Zone has created here with an Urban setting and portal magic to a fae realm. I feel like it’s perfectly balanced with heaps of intrigue, secrets, deceptions, humor and amazing romance. The magic system is quite easy to navigate and leaves room for some mystery.
The character arcs are well crafted and they continue to develop as we move through the storyline. They are easy to love, and some that we hate!! The found family dynamic is created perfectly with this group of characters. I especially enjoyed seeing Kaitlyn come into her own. She pushes back all while still pretending to be submissive and realizes that she is not powerless to help herself and her friends.
If you like found family, mental health rep, protective heroes, stolen memories, magic, urban fantasy and fae; I think you will enjoy this series.
Thank you Kara M. Zone for the advance copy!
I really enjoy the world that Kara M Zone has created here with an Urban setting and portal magic to a fae realm. I feel like it’s perfectly balanced with heaps of intrigue, secrets, deceptions, humor and amazing romance. The magic system is quite easy to navigate and leaves room for some mystery.
The character arcs are well crafted and they continue to develop as we move through the storyline. They are easy to love, and some that we hate!! The found family dynamic is created perfectly with this group of characters. I especially enjoyed seeing Kaitlyn come into her own. She pushes back all while still pretending to be submissive and realizes that she is not powerless to help herself and her friends.
If you like found family, mental health rep, protective heroes, stolen memories, magic, urban fantasy and fae; I think you will enjoy this series.
Thank you Kara M. Zone for the advance copy!
June 24, 2025
For book 2 I was even more impressed than the first one. Like Cinders is good don’t get me wrong - but it feels like there’s a real connection to Kaitlyn for me in this one. It might be because she spends the majority of this book more empowered even if she’s back in a tricky situation. Like she stands up for herself more, she’s a spitfire more so in this one and all while navigating her mom again.
Cassie refers to the whole thing as a big game of Clue - and I agree! Every time I was ready to call it ‘it was the maid in the library with the candle stick’ we got new information that completely ruined my guess!
Widening out the plot to include the twins dad, and all of the other cool characters Talia I’m looking at you girl - having ghosts (metaphorical) come back to haunt Finn’s dad, and having to attend like an ongoing party…whoa. Finn and Garrick and Max are their normal selves and that ending - what a wild one!
Definitely recommend this one, happy to have another chance at an arc with this one!
Cassie refers to the whole thing as a big game of Clue - and I agree! Every time I was ready to call it ‘it was the maid in the library with the candle stick’ we got new information that completely ruined my guess!
Widening out the plot to include the twins dad, and all of the other cool characters Talia I’m looking at you girl - having ghosts (metaphorical) come back to haunt Finn’s dad, and having to attend like an ongoing party…whoa. Finn and Garrick and Max are their normal selves and that ending - what a wild one!
Definitely recommend this one, happy to have another chance at an arc with this one!
June 29, 2025
I have been waiting for this book since book one ending on a cliff hanger. And it didn’t disappoint. It’s picks up right where we left off and we get a lot of answers and another big bomb, RIGHT AT THE END of course!
Kaitlin finds herself back at Hallow Hill Manor and missing the last several months. But this time is different, she knows something is off deep down and she doesn’t belong there. In this book we really get to see Kaitlin stand strong and shine.
Finn and Max have come up with a plan to get Kaitlin back. And even though Kaitlin may not remember Finn, her body and soul do. She’s drawn to him. She feels the deeper connection. Their bond is strong and you can’t help but root for the couple. Kaitlin has found her family and they aren’t the ones by blood who are trying to hurt and control her.
This book has some darkness, action, twists, and another cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
4⭐️
1🌶️
Kaitlin finds herself back at Hallow Hill Manor and missing the last several months. But this time is different, she knows something is off deep down and she doesn’t belong there. In this book we really get to see Kaitlin stand strong and shine.
Finn and Max have come up with a plan to get Kaitlin back. And even though Kaitlin may not remember Finn, her body and soul do. She’s drawn to him. She feels the deeper connection. Their bond is strong and you can’t help but root for the couple. Kaitlin has found her family and they aren’t the ones by blood who are trying to hurt and control her.
This book has some darkness, action, twists, and another cliffhanger. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book.
4⭐️
1🌶️
June 20, 2025
This second book fell a little flat for me. It is super fast paced and everything happened in such a short period of time. I felt like I didn’t get an adequate amount of information for the new and ongoing conflict. Finn and Kaitlin’s romance is almost insta-love level which isn’t my favorite. I also feel like Kaitlin’s scent was mentioned too often. I know that’s small but cherry blossom and wet iron was mentioned so many times when it could’ve just been “her scent.”
I feel like book one set such a high bar, I would have waited longer for the sequel and read a longer book if it lived up to Cinders Burn at Midnight.
I really love the premise of this story and still want to see what happens next with Kaitlin. I love Kara’s writing but this one just felt rushed.
I feel like book one set such a high bar, I would have waited longer for the sequel and read a longer book if it lived up to Cinders Burn at Midnight.
I really love the premise of this story and still want to see what happens next with Kaitlin. I love Kara’s writing but this one just felt rushed.
June 26, 2025
Finn and Kaitlin's story continues right where book 1 left off (thank goodness), I'm so happy I was able to go right through both books. I felt like this book was a little more emotional now that all these relationships have been established, and others completely change as shocking truths come out. This book definitely was whirlwind of action with twists that completely got me. I always appreciate it when I don't see everything coming and when you see details matchup between books in a series. Kara M Zone is completely delivering, and I can't wait to see where the Trium Perfectum series goes... following author now!
June 17, 2025
I was so excited to receive this ARC as the ending of Cinders Burn at Midnight was quite the cliff hanger! Kaitlin has been forcibly taken back to her mother, striped of her memories from the past few months. While she knows she doesn't belong with her mother, her brother and friends have a daring plan to get her back. But can she trust them? Remember her memories have been striped! She's caught in a web full of deceit and in a world full of magic. I really loved the twist and darkness in this book! I highly recommend you first read Cinders Burn at Midnight and then Ashes Fall at Dawn!
June 24, 2025
✔ Found Family
✔ Stolen Memories
✔ Family Secrets
✔ Hidden Identities
Kaitlin has been taken back to Hallowed Hill Manor. She has no memory of the last three months.
Max, Finn, and the rest of their allies are going to get Kaitlin away and continue to dig for answers.
Kara Zone does a great job of giving answers and adding more questions that need to be answered. I love that as answers are given from question from book 1 more questions and shocks are created in this book. The cliffhanger is a shockef for sure. AND the epilogue is smoking!!
I can not wait for book 3 because I NEED answers!!
✔ Stolen Memories
✔ Family Secrets
✔ Hidden Identities
Kaitlin has been taken back to Hallowed Hill Manor. She has no memory of the last three months.
Max, Finn, and the rest of their allies are going to get Kaitlin away and continue to dig for answers.
Kara Zone does a great job of giving answers and adding more questions that need to be answered. I love that as answers are given from question from book 1 more questions and shocks are created in this book. The cliffhanger is a shockef for sure. AND the epilogue is smoking!!
I can not wait for book 3 because I NEED answers!!
July 5, 2025
This sequel delivers. It takes everything I loved from Cinders Burn at Midnight and dials it all up. Higher stakes, sharper tension, and even deeper emotional payoff. From the very first chapter, I was locked in.
Kaitlin is back and stronger than ever. She’s still reeling from everything she’s lost, but you can feel the shift in her. She’s not just surviving anymore, she’s choosing who she wants to be. Her bond with Finn hits harder in this one. The weight of everything they’ve been through lingers in every glance and choice. And Max? Max brings the heart and the storm. Aiden too holds his own, steady and calculated, even as cracks start to show.
The emotional core of this book is found family. It’s messy and complicated but it feels earned. Everyone has a role, but they’re not trapped in it. They evolve, and that growth makes every win, every setback, feel that much more real.
The pacing here is sharp. It hits the ground running and never slows down. Magic pulses through nearly every page, and just when you think you know where it’s heading, it throws in another twist. Not one scene felt wasted.
The world building continues to impress. Emberland expands in scale and in detail. The Trium Perfectum bond, the political manipulations, the divine threads behind the magic, they all get clearer, heavier, and more dangerous. It’s dark and beautiful all at once.
Ashes Fall at Dawn is a standout sequel that doesn’t just follow up on book one, it levels the whole series up. If you’re already invested in this world and these characters, you’re going to fly through this one like I did. And when it ends, you’ll immediately want more.
Kaitlin is back and stronger than ever. She’s still reeling from everything she’s lost, but you can feel the shift in her. She’s not just surviving anymore, she’s choosing who she wants to be. Her bond with Finn hits harder in this one. The weight of everything they’ve been through lingers in every glance and choice. And Max? Max brings the heart and the storm. Aiden too holds his own, steady and calculated, even as cracks start to show.
The emotional core of this book is found family. It’s messy and complicated but it feels earned. Everyone has a role, but they’re not trapped in it. They evolve, and that growth makes every win, every setback, feel that much more real.
The pacing here is sharp. It hits the ground running and never slows down. Magic pulses through nearly every page, and just when you think you know where it’s heading, it throws in another twist. Not one scene felt wasted.
The world building continues to impress. Emberland expands in scale and in detail. The Trium Perfectum bond, the political manipulations, the divine threads behind the magic, they all get clearer, heavier, and more dangerous. It’s dark and beautiful all at once.
Ashes Fall at Dawn is a standout sequel that doesn’t just follow up on book one, it levels the whole series up. If you’re already invested in this world and these characters, you’re going to fly through this one like I did. And when it ends, you’ll immediately want more.
July 10, 2025
This book starts little time after Cinders Burn At Midnight and it was intense from the beginning to the end !!
I loved how everyone got purposeful and that they all got along with a plan to go get Kaitlin back.
Humans or not, they were all ready to be here for her and to fight for her, especially Finn but that’s totally normal as she is his love.
As always the writing style and the pace were truly outstanding. I couldn’t put this one down, same as the other books of the series.
Now I think it’s safe to say that we need a third book !!! Like need need need it !!
I loved how everyone got purposeful and that they all got along with a plan to go get Kaitlin back.
Humans or not, they were all ready to be here for her and to fight for her, especially Finn but that’s totally normal as she is his love.
As always the writing style and the pace were truly outstanding. I couldn’t put this one down, same as the other books of the series.
Now I think it’s safe to say that we need a third book !!! Like need need need it !!
June 15, 2025
I didn’t expect Ashes Fall at Dawn to hit me this hard, but wow. Kara M. Zone pulled me straight back into Kaitlin’s world—this time darker, more disorienting, and deeply emotional. Watching Kaitlin fight to rediscover who she is while navigating deception and magic gave me chills more than once.
Her bond with Finn worked—I found myself rooting for them while dreading what might come next.
What really stuck with me is how raw and human it felt, even in this wildly magical setting. Zone doesn’t shy away from pain or truth, and that gave the story real weight.
I’m still processing the ending—and I’ll be first in line when book three is announced.
Her bond with Finn worked—I found myself rooting for them while dreading what might come next.
What really stuck with me is how raw and human it felt, even in this wildly magical setting. Zone doesn’t shy away from pain or truth, and that gave the story real weight.
I’m still processing the ending—and I’ll be first in line when book three is announced.
June 18, 2025
This got weird quick but I was here for it. I love this series it’s always so much fun. You definitely need to read the rest of the series for this book to make sense. But you get thrown into the adventure of this story pretty much immediately as it picks up shortly after the previous book ends. Did I enjoy this book? Absolutely! Would I reread it later? Maybe. I’m hoping for more in this series at a later date as I feel that there’s more story to tell.
June 24, 2025
In the second book, we pick up where we left off in the first book. Hold on tight because not everything you see is what it seems, and the crazy just gets crazier. But with the gang all together, they figure it all out. They’re able to navigate through everything thanks to the strong connection between Finn and Kait. A surprise pops up at the end, and I’m definitely excited to read “It Doesn’t Have to Be Forever” when it comes out. I hope we see how Finn and Kait’s happy ending comes together.
July 4, 2025
I read Cinders Burn at Midnight and loved it so I was excited to read this book. I love that this book picked up exactly where that first book left off. So I literally feel like I didn't miss anything.
This book has romance and danger, it has a lot of mystery to it but it also has some very funny moments. Oh and let's not forget magic.
Kaitlin it's always a great character to read about and I love her sidekicks Max, Cassie, and Finn. There are definitely secrets and twists in this book. The writing in this book is very descriptive and you can actually picture everything perfectly in your mind.
I found myself still rooting for Kaitlin and Finns relationship. Based on these first two books, i'm really excited to read the next one.
This book has romance and danger, it has a lot of mystery to it but it also has some very funny moments. Oh and let's not forget magic.
Kaitlin it's always a great character to read about and I love her sidekicks Max, Cassie, and Finn. There are definitely secrets and twists in this book. The writing in this book is very descriptive and you can actually picture everything perfectly in your mind.
I found myself still rooting for Kaitlin and Finns relationship. Based on these first two books, i'm really excited to read the next one.
February 11, 2026
“I never want to forget again”
This story picks up right where it left off.
Kaitlin is right back in the place she never wanted to be again Hallowed Hills, she also has no recollection of the past couple of months.
Finn is going crazy with the need to get to Kaitlin and protect her.
Max steps into his protective big brother role.
There is so much going on in this fast paced action packed book. Magic, shifters , fae, found family and more.
Next book please!!
This story picks up right where it left off.
Kaitlin is right back in the place she never wanted to be again Hallowed Hills, she also has no recollection of the past couple of months.
Finn is going crazy with the need to get to Kaitlin and protect her.
Max steps into his protective big brother role.
There is so much going on in this fast paced action packed book. Magic, shifters , fae, found family and more.
Next book please!!
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