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The Dandelion Tree, Part Two
A Curse to Break. A Fate to Unravel. A Soul on the Edge of Ruin.
Haunted by an ancient curse, Kharis teeters on the brink of madness. To break her curse and rescue her sister, she must navigate the treacherous realms of the ancient immortals to reach the Akumi king, outwit the cunning Aghet Mendi, and confront the truth that Itzu—her fiercest protector—has long concealed from her. If she fails, it will not only be her end but also the end of the world.
And when she finally stands before the Akumi king, will he offer her freedom—or ruin?
A thoughtful, immersive epic high fantasy, perfect for fans of Jacqueline Carey and R.F. Kuang—a tale where intrigue collides with magic, myth, prophecy, and existential dread.
Darkly lyrical and emotionally fierce, The Dandelion Tree, Part Two, is a character-rich literary epic high fantasy for readers who crave mythic resonance, emotional depth, and quiet power over spectacle. Prophecy, fate, sisterhood, magic, and tragic lovers converge in a tale of intrigue, sacrifice, and the quiet strength found in the choices that shape Kharis's dark destiny. Perfect for fans of Robin Hood, Tasha Suri, and Katherine Arden, this tale blooms beautifully, steeped in lore, longing, and the impossible choice that defines our flawed heroine.
Readers of Robin Hobb, Tasha Suri, and Laini Taylor will enjoy the lush prose, the multiple POVs, the stakes, and the mythic scope of Kharis’s quest. The story unfolds like a blossom, steeped in lore, wonder, and quiet tension. With lyrical prose, depth over spectacle, deep characterization, and a thoughtful plot, readers will linger on the heroine’s journey after the last page.
If you are looking for an emotionally-layered, character-driven, slow-burn epic saga that is mythic in tone and elegant in prose, The Dandelion Tree story is for you.
and personal stakes, romantic tension, spiritual dread, mythic weight, and human vulnerability are all grounded in lush, lyrical, and precise prose. – Reviewer.Kharis and Itzu capture the soul of the tragic, fated love. “The Night Circus” meets “Radiance” (Grace Draven) with a whisper of “The Song of Achilles” in tone. - ReviewerA book for the discerning reader who wants their heart broken and rebuilt. – ReviewerAn extraordinary inversion of “The Chosen One” trope. The MFC is here to destroy the world, not save it. - ReviewerDeeply immersive, emotionally resonant, and narratively cohesive fantasy. We don’t get this these days. – ReviewerFantasy with the kind of internal peril that will satisfy readers of immersive fantasy like “The Goblin Emperor” or “Ninth House.”The Dandelion Tree is what happens if N.K. Jemisin and Madeline Miller told an epic about power, prophecy, and the fragile beauty of being mortal.
Haunted by an ancient curse, Kharis teeters on the brink of madness. To break her curse and rescue her sister, she must navigate the treacherous realms of the ancient immortals to reach the Akumi king, outwit the cunning Aghet Mendi, and confront the truth that Itzu—her fiercest protector—has long concealed from her. If she fails, it will not only be her end but also the end of the world.
And when she finally stands before the Akumi king, will he offer her freedom—or ruin?
A thoughtful, immersive epic high fantasy, perfect for fans of Jacqueline Carey and R.F. Kuang—a tale where intrigue collides with magic, myth, prophecy, and existential dread.
Darkly lyrical and emotionally fierce, The Dandelion Tree, Part Two, is a character-rich literary epic high fantasy for readers who crave mythic resonance, emotional depth, and quiet power over spectacle. Prophecy, fate, sisterhood, magic, and tragic lovers converge in a tale of intrigue, sacrifice, and the quiet strength found in the choices that shape Kharis's dark destiny. Perfect for fans of Robin Hood, Tasha Suri, and Katherine Arden, this tale blooms beautifully, steeped in lore, longing, and the impossible choice that defines our flawed heroine.
Readers of Robin Hobb, Tasha Suri, and Laini Taylor will enjoy the lush prose, the multiple POVs, the stakes, and the mythic scope of Kharis’s quest. The story unfolds like a blossom, steeped in lore, wonder, and quiet tension. With lyrical prose, depth over spectacle, deep characterization, and a thoughtful plot, readers will linger on the heroine’s journey after the last page.
If you are looking for an emotionally-layered, character-driven, slow-burn epic saga that is mythic in tone and elegant in prose, The Dandelion Tree story is for you.
and personal stakes, romantic tension, spiritual dread, mythic weight, and human vulnerability are all grounded in lush, lyrical, and precise prose. – Reviewer.Kharis and Itzu capture the soul of the tragic, fated love. “The Night Circus” meets “Radiance” (Grace Draven) with a whisper of “The Song of Achilles” in tone. - ReviewerA book for the discerning reader who wants their heart broken and rebuilt. – ReviewerAn extraordinary inversion of “The Chosen One” trope. The MFC is here to destroy the world, not save it. - ReviewerDeeply immersive, emotionally resonant, and narratively cohesive fantasy. We don’t get this these days. – ReviewerFantasy with the kind of internal peril that will satisfy readers of immersive fantasy like “The Goblin Emperor” or “Ninth House.”The Dandelion Tree is what happens if N.K. Jemisin and Madeline Miller told an epic about power, prophecy, and the fragile beauty of being mortal.
- GenresFantasy
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2025
1 person is currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
A.S.R. Gelpi
7 books42 followersA.S.R. Gelpi was writing fantasy stories since twelve (mainly to entertain friends and scare teachers) but put her writing aside to pursue her academic dreams, including a Ph.D. But she's back, better than ever, putting her love of literature and her lifelong passion for fantasy into creating the worlds where "The Dandelion Chronicles" stories take place. With her love of the fantastic shining through in her work, she has created complex characters, worlds with depth and lore, and stories that grab readers and don’t let go. She hopes to inspire a new generation of fantasy lovers with her unique and realistic epic fantasy stories.
Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asrgelpi_au...
Find her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asrgelpi_au...
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
December 15, 2025
Very Involved Plot And
Storyline/ARC
I regret and apologize for not getting this review in on time. Unfortunately, I suffer from a few debilitating illnesses, and really thought, I’d have the time frame.
I’ve absolutely loving this series so far, but would highly recommend anyone looking to pick it up, to pay careful attention to the numbers used to denote the order of these. It can be rather confusing.
The sister’s relationship is something quite unique, but filled with love. The details in the characters, the world building, and each plot line, as well as the storyline, is very intriguing , as well as intense, and I’ve found it to actually be one of my all time favorite series so far. THAT in and of itself says a lot!
I also mention this in one of my other reviews, and I feel it is worth repeating.
8 books, 3 novellas, is ambitious at best, and this could be a major turn off for many from the beginning, but at least the author has the sense to forewarn the reader. I’m not at all saying this ambitiousness is a bad thing. It has added to the intrigue, the intensity, and the drama!
It could be pulled off, and quite well, if the 3 released are any indication of what’s to come. Besides this definitely won’t be the first time a rather larger, overly complex series has been released, and had done quite well.
I hate to keep being repetitive, but once again, I mentioned this next section in another review as well.
I finally tracked down the releases, by going to A.S.R. Gelpi’s webpage, where it list in full the re-releases of the series.
Next one is not due out until December 2025, and the last three has a target date of sometime in 2028. I can handle waiting for the December release for sure. Just make sure you read them in the correct order.
As well as forewarning the reader as to some of the graphic content included, even though she writes they’re "closed door" scenes, and some of the abuse is "suggested" abuse, some may appear to be triggers for those who have suffered any form of abuse, so I suggest being sure you’re in a strong place before reading this series. It’s nowhere near as bad as some of the drivel that’s out there today, with no warning, so don’t worry too much about it.
Other than that, the series is actually well developed from the characters, to the worlds, to the plot.
You can’t help but falling in love with the MC, as well as a few others.
It was only though tracking down the actual book 1, and not part one, that I found out this was meant to be a rather larger scale release with 8 books, along with 3 novellas, with "The Dandelion Tree, being over 300 pages, which is considered one of the novellas.
I will say it’s worth the investment, as long as you know all the facts pertaining to this series.
It also turns out this series was once released, and since pulled, so patience will be required. I’m waiting on these releases.
Because of the length of each novel, there’s a lot going on, and you’ll get your money’s worth for sure.
I definitely recommend sticking it out, at least these first 3, and would be quite surprised, is someone didn’t want to continue with the series, as I am.
There’s not really a lot I can say, without providing spoilers. Please give this one a try, and let me know what you think!
My apologies to the author, as well as the publisher, for not getting this done sooner. Thank you as well to the author for reaching out to let me know an ARC review could still be posted, up until a certain date.
Release date has already been, on October 7th, 2025.
Note: I received early access from NetGalley and the publisher, Silver River Publishing, of this manuscript, and have at my own discretion and opinion, chosen to post this review.
Storyline/ARC
I regret and apologize for not getting this review in on time. Unfortunately, I suffer from a few debilitating illnesses, and really thought, I’d have the time frame.
I’ve absolutely loving this series so far, but would highly recommend anyone looking to pick it up, to pay careful attention to the numbers used to denote the order of these. It can be rather confusing.
The sister’s relationship is something quite unique, but filled with love. The details in the characters, the world building, and each plot line, as well as the storyline, is very intriguing , as well as intense, and I’ve found it to actually be one of my all time favorite series so far. THAT in and of itself says a lot!
I also mention this in one of my other reviews, and I feel it is worth repeating.
8 books, 3 novellas, is ambitious at best, and this could be a major turn off for many from the beginning, but at least the author has the sense to forewarn the reader. I’m not at all saying this ambitiousness is a bad thing. It has added to the intrigue, the intensity, and the drama!
It could be pulled off, and quite well, if the 3 released are any indication of what’s to come. Besides this definitely won’t be the first time a rather larger, overly complex series has been released, and had done quite well.
I hate to keep being repetitive, but once again, I mentioned this next section in another review as well.
I finally tracked down the releases, by going to A.S.R. Gelpi’s webpage, where it list in full the re-releases of the series.
Next one is not due out until December 2025, and the last three has a target date of sometime in 2028. I can handle waiting for the December release for sure. Just make sure you read them in the correct order.
As well as forewarning the reader as to some of the graphic content included, even though she writes they’re "closed door" scenes, and some of the abuse is "suggested" abuse, some may appear to be triggers for those who have suffered any form of abuse, so I suggest being sure you’re in a strong place before reading this series. It’s nowhere near as bad as some of the drivel that’s out there today, with no warning, so don’t worry too much about it.
Other than that, the series is actually well developed from the characters, to the worlds, to the plot.
You can’t help but falling in love with the MC, as well as a few others.
It was only though tracking down the actual book 1, and not part one, that I found out this was meant to be a rather larger scale release with 8 books, along with 3 novellas, with "The Dandelion Tree, being over 300 pages, which is considered one of the novellas.
I will say it’s worth the investment, as long as you know all the facts pertaining to this series.
It also turns out this series was once released, and since pulled, so patience will be required. I’m waiting on these releases.
Because of the length of each novel, there’s a lot going on, and you’ll get your money’s worth for sure.
I definitely recommend sticking it out, at least these first 3, and would be quite surprised, is someone didn’t want to continue with the series, as I am.
There’s not really a lot I can say, without providing spoilers. Please give this one a try, and let me know what you think!
My apologies to the author, as well as the publisher, for not getting this done sooner. Thank you as well to the author for reaching out to let me know an ARC review could still be posted, up until a certain date.
Release date has already been, on October 7th, 2025.
Note: I received early access from NetGalley and the publisher, Silver River Publishing, of this manuscript, and have at my own discretion and opinion, chosen to post this review.
October 5, 2025
i know it’s probably unfair to rate this since i haven’t read the first two books... but i could feel there was history and depth i wasn’t catching, especially with kharis and everything tied to the curse. i liked those glimpses of what she’s carrying, but without the earlier books it was hard for me to connect fully.
i struggled with the pacing and didn’t feel as gripped as i hoped, but i do plan to go back to book one. i think i’ll appreciate this part more once i understand the whole journey.
thank you netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy!
i struggled with the pacing and didn’t feel as gripped as i hoped, but i do plan to go back to book one. i think i’ll appreciate this part more once i understand the whole journey.
thank you netgalley for the opportunity to read this advance copy!
February 12, 2026
Let me start by saying: I devoured this book. It was meant to be my weekend read, but the moment I opened it to check if it had downloaded properly… I couldn’t put it down.
From the haunting prologue to the jaw-dropping cliffhanger, this installment held me captive. Without dipping into spoiler territory, I’ll just say this: watching Kharis grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this series. She was a mischievous twelve-year-old when her story began in A Land of Shadows and Moss. Now she is twenty, and the character development is extraordinary. She is such a relatable character, shaped by tragic trauma, yet she shines. Her dream of freeing her sister from this terrifying curse motivates her, whereas someone else might have destroyed the world by now. (PS: Kharis has the power to do it.)
In The Dandelion Tree, Part One, she experiences what life could be free of the curse, how Arjun Ghan and Aghet Mendi disrupt this vision, and how her father sends her to a temple in the mountains. She must face challenges during her journey, particularly when an assassin is after her.
In Part Two, Kharis begins her training at the Eliza temple, still seeking a way to break the curse before it drives her mad. If she fails, her sister is fated to kill her. This volume is packed with revelations. Some I anticipated; others caught me off guard. An enigmatic mentor takes her under his wing. We learn more about the Djinshiruk (sp?), the immortals, the Akumi king, the One War, and soul resealment. And then there’s Poliormos—a figure from the past whose presence lingers ominously over the narrative. I have theories. But again... spoilers.
Is it dark? Yes—but not grimdark. Think emotionally intense, not gratuitous.
Is there violence? Yes, it will be potentially graphic to some readers.
Is it epic? Without question.
Is there romance? Absolutely. Tender, slow-burn, heart-wrenching.
Spice? No.
Cursing? No.
Will you cry? I did.
Is it cozy? Not exactly—the story strikes a balance between high-stakes action and moments of warmth and quiet intimacy.
If you’re looking for Fourth Wing or Serpent and the Wings of Night, stay away. If you love C.S. Pacat, Madeline Miller, N.K. Jemisin, and Tasha Suri, then step right in. This book even reminded me of Hafzah Faisal’s We Hunt the Flame.
Lyrical prose. Deep character work. Immersive worldbuilding. The pacing is thoughtful, the themes profound, and the emotional payoff immense. Multiple POVs. Narrative in 3rd person past tense. After reading Book Three, I can say with confidence: this story blooms like a dandelion. I can’t wait for book four.
Thank you to Silver River Publishing, ASR Gelpi, and NetGalley for providing this ARC and the opportunity to share my honest thoughts.
From the haunting prologue to the jaw-dropping cliffhanger, this installment held me captive. Without dipping into spoiler territory, I’ll just say this: watching Kharis grow has been one of the most rewarding parts of this series. She was a mischievous twelve-year-old when her story began in A Land of Shadows and Moss. Now she is twenty, and the character development is extraordinary. She is such a relatable character, shaped by tragic trauma, yet she shines. Her dream of freeing her sister from this terrifying curse motivates her, whereas someone else might have destroyed the world by now. (PS: Kharis has the power to do it.)
In The Dandelion Tree, Part One, she experiences what life could be free of the curse, how Arjun Ghan and Aghet Mendi disrupt this vision, and how her father sends her to a temple in the mountains. She must face challenges during her journey, particularly when an assassin is after her.
In Part Two, Kharis begins her training at the Eliza temple, still seeking a way to break the curse before it drives her mad. If she fails, her sister is fated to kill her. This volume is packed with revelations. Some I anticipated; others caught me off guard. An enigmatic mentor takes her under his wing. We learn more about the Djinshiruk (sp?), the immortals, the Akumi king, the One War, and soul resealment. And then there’s Poliormos—a figure from the past whose presence lingers ominously over the narrative. I have theories. But again... spoilers.
Is it dark? Yes—but not grimdark. Think emotionally intense, not gratuitous.
Is there violence? Yes, it will be potentially graphic to some readers.
Is it epic? Without question.
Is there romance? Absolutely. Tender, slow-burn, heart-wrenching.
Spice? No.
Cursing? No.
Will you cry? I did.
Is it cozy? Not exactly—the story strikes a balance between high-stakes action and moments of warmth and quiet intimacy.
If you’re looking for Fourth Wing or Serpent and the Wings of Night, stay away. If you love C.S. Pacat, Madeline Miller, N.K. Jemisin, and Tasha Suri, then step right in. This book even reminded me of Hafzah Faisal’s We Hunt the Flame.
Lyrical prose. Deep character work. Immersive worldbuilding. The pacing is thoughtful, the themes profound, and the emotional payoff immense. Multiple POVs. Narrative in 3rd person past tense. After reading Book Three, I can say with confidence: this story blooms like a dandelion. I can’t wait for book four.
Thank you to Silver River Publishing, ASR Gelpi, and NetGalley for providing this ARC and the opportunity to share my honest thoughts.
August 28, 2025
The Dandelion Tree, Part Two is a richly emotional and mythic continuation of Gelpi’s Dandelion Chronicles, and though it’s the third book in the series, it reads with the gravity of a penultimate act—slow-burning, poetic, and deeply introspective. We follow Kharis as she continues to battle the curse threatening her life and those she loves, caught between loyalty, grief, and the terrifying power of ancient deities. Her mission to save her sister Saya forces her to confront long-buried truths and navigate political and spiritual landscapes shaped by centuries of silence.
What stands out most in this installment is Gelpi’s lyrical prose. Rather than overwhelming the reader with action or flash, the book leans into emotion and quiet tension. Every sentence feels measured, purposeful, and steeped in feeling. There’s a mythic undercurrent running through the narrative, one that gives the world of the Dandelion Chronicles a sense of depth and lived-in history. The worldbuilding in Serai is thoughtful and deliberate, with political underpinnings and religious lore that add layers to an already weighty narrative.
Kharis is a compelling protagonist—fierce, broken, and trying to make peace with the pain she carries. Her relationships, particularly with Itzu and Aravani, are filled with complex emotional threads: guilt, love, betrayal, and protection. These dynamics are rendered with care, and while much of the novel is quiet and reflective, the emotional stakes are never lacking. That said, the pacing can feel slow at times, especially in the first half, and some threads are left dangling as we await the series’ final chapter.
Still, this book delivers exactly what it sets out to—emotional intensity, spiritual reckoning, and the sense of a character reckoning with the cost of truth. While it may not have the sweeping action of some fantasies, its beauty lies in its restraint. For those invested in Kharis’s story, The Dandelion Tree, Part Two offers a satisfying and resonant continuation, and it leaves me eager to see how Gelpi brings this beautifully crafted series to a close.
What stands out most in this installment is Gelpi’s lyrical prose. Rather than overwhelming the reader with action or flash, the book leans into emotion and quiet tension. Every sentence feels measured, purposeful, and steeped in feeling. There’s a mythic undercurrent running through the narrative, one that gives the world of the Dandelion Chronicles a sense of depth and lived-in history. The worldbuilding in Serai is thoughtful and deliberate, with political underpinnings and religious lore that add layers to an already weighty narrative.
Kharis is a compelling protagonist—fierce, broken, and trying to make peace with the pain she carries. Her relationships, particularly with Itzu and Aravani, are filled with complex emotional threads: guilt, love, betrayal, and protection. These dynamics are rendered with care, and while much of the novel is quiet and reflective, the emotional stakes are never lacking. That said, the pacing can feel slow at times, especially in the first half, and some threads are left dangling as we await the series’ final chapter.
Still, this book delivers exactly what it sets out to—emotional intensity, spiritual reckoning, and the sense of a character reckoning with the cost of truth. While it may not have the sweeping action of some fantasies, its beauty lies in its restraint. For those invested in Kharis’s story, The Dandelion Tree, Part Two offers a satisfying and resonant continuation, and it leaves me eager to see how Gelpi brings this beautifully crafted series to a close.
July 29, 2025
flew through this one. The Dandelion Tree, Part Two completely delivered on everything I hoped for—intense stakes, emotional resonance, and characters who feel heartbreakingly real.
Kharis is on the edge—haunted by an ancient curse, desperate to save her sister, and teetering on madness. This installment takes her deeper into the world of the ancient immortals than ever, weaving myth, magic, and political intrigue seamlessly. Facing off against Aghet Mendi and finally standing before the Akumi king, the tension never lets up.
What I loved most is that the writing feels deliberate and poetic but never overdone. It’s darker, more intimate, and charged with emotional clarity. One line that stood out was:
“…𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴 𝓽𝓸 𝓪 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭𝓼 𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓫𝓾𝓽 𝓪 𝔀𝓱𝓲𝓼𝓹𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓿𝓸𝓲𝓭, 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓼𝓹𝓸𝓴𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓫𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓶𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓰𝓸𝓭𝓼.”
And Kharis’s internal struggle broke me:
“𝒲𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝒷𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒹𝒶𝓇𝓀𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝓈𝓌𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝓂𝑒?… 𝒴𝑒𝓈. 𝒯𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓇𝑒𝓂𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓁𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉,” 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝒾𝓈𝓈𝑒𝒹, “𝓈𝑜 𝐼 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒷𝑒 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓁𝓎 𝓃𝓊𝓂𝒷—𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝓃𝑜𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔, 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓃𝑜𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔.”
These lines perfectly capture the existential dread and mythic weight running through the story.
The pacing is tight. The world-building deepens without slowing things down. And though there’s darkness at every turn, Kharis’s quiet strength and the relationships she forms feel grounded and deeply human.
If you love epic fantasy with emotional depth, mythic resonance, and a heroine who refuses to give up even when everything is stacked against her, this is a must-read. Kharis’s journey isn’t flashy—it’s subtle and powerful, and it stayed with me long after I closed the book.
A.S.R. Gelpi has crafted something special here.
Kharis is on the edge—haunted by an ancient curse, desperate to save her sister, and teetering on madness. This installment takes her deeper into the world of the ancient immortals than ever, weaving myth, magic, and political intrigue seamlessly. Facing off against Aghet Mendi and finally standing before the Akumi king, the tension never lets up.
What I loved most is that the writing feels deliberate and poetic but never overdone. It’s darker, more intimate, and charged with emotional clarity. One line that stood out was:
“…𝓫𝓪𝓬𝓴 𝓽𝓸 𝓪 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝔀𝓱𝓮𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓵𝓭𝓼 𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓫𝓾𝓽 𝓪 𝔀𝓱𝓲𝓼𝓹𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓷 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓿𝓸𝓲𝓭, 𝔀𝓪𝓲𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝓼𝓹𝓸𝓴𝓮𝓷 𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓸 𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓫𝔂 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓶𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓰𝓸𝓭𝓼.”
And Kharis’s internal struggle broke me:
“𝒲𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹𝓃’𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝒷𝑒 𝒷𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝓉𝑜 𝓁𝑒𝓉 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝒹𝒶𝓇𝓀𝓃𝑒𝓈𝓈 𝓈𝓌𝒶𝓁𝓁𝑜𝓌 𝓂𝑒?… 𝒴𝑒𝓈. 𝒯𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂 𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓎 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓇𝑒𝓂𝑜𝓋𝑒 𝓂𝓎 𝒽𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓉 𝓌𝒽𝒾𝓁𝑒 𝓎𝑜𝓊’𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉,” 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝒾𝓈𝓈𝑒𝒹, “𝓈𝑜 𝐼 𝒸𝒶𝓃 𝒷𝑒 𝓉𝓇𝓊𝓁𝓎 𝓃𝓊𝓂𝒷—𝒻𝑒𝑒𝓁 𝓃𝑜𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔, 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓃𝑜𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓃𝑔.”
These lines perfectly capture the existential dread and mythic weight running through the story.
The pacing is tight. The world-building deepens without slowing things down. And though there’s darkness at every turn, Kharis’s quiet strength and the relationships she forms feel grounded and deeply human.
If you love epic fantasy with emotional depth, mythic resonance, and a heroine who refuses to give up even when everything is stacked against her, this is a must-read. Kharis’s journey isn’t flashy—it’s subtle and powerful, and it stayed with me long after I closed the book.
A.S.R. Gelpi has crafted something special here.
February 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
The Dandelion Tree: Part Two by A.S.R. Gelpi
Part Two feels like the moment the story finally inhales after the heavy restraint of the first installment. The pacing opens up, the stakes sharpen, and the narrative begins to move with clearer purpose. We’re given long-awaited answers — especially surrounding Kharis and Itzu’s past and the truth behind the Akumi King — and those revelations land with satisfying emotional weight rather than feeling rushed or convenient.
The introduction of new characters adds fresh energy to the world without pulling focus from the core relationships. Each new presence deepens the political tension and mythic scope, while still allowing the emotional heart of the story to remain centered on Kharis’s burden and the consequences of power. Gelpi continues to balance quiet introspection with looming danger, but this installment offers more forward momentum and clarity, making the broader conflict feel tangible at last.
What stood out most was how the answers didn’t lessen the mystery — they expanded it. Understanding the past only heightens the sense of inevitability surrounding what’s to come, and the emotional stakes feel heavier because of it. This sequel rewards patience, strengthens the mythology, and leaves the path ahead feeling both clearer and more perilous.
Tropes & Themes
Dark fantasy
Cursed heroine
Burden of power
Ancient magic & prophecy
Political intrigue
Found family & loyalty
Fate vs. choice
Secrets of the past revealed
The Dandelion Tree: Part Two by A.S.R. Gelpi
Part Two feels like the moment the story finally inhales after the heavy restraint of the first installment. The pacing opens up, the stakes sharpen, and the narrative begins to move with clearer purpose. We’re given long-awaited answers — especially surrounding Kharis and Itzu’s past and the truth behind the Akumi King — and those revelations land with satisfying emotional weight rather than feeling rushed or convenient.
The introduction of new characters adds fresh energy to the world without pulling focus from the core relationships. Each new presence deepens the political tension and mythic scope, while still allowing the emotional heart of the story to remain centered on Kharis’s burden and the consequences of power. Gelpi continues to balance quiet introspection with looming danger, but this installment offers more forward momentum and clarity, making the broader conflict feel tangible at last.
What stood out most was how the answers didn’t lessen the mystery — they expanded it. Understanding the past only heightens the sense of inevitability surrounding what’s to come, and the emotional stakes feel heavier because of it. This sequel rewards patience, strengthens the mythology, and leaves the path ahead feeling both clearer and more perilous.
Tropes & Themes
Dark fantasy
Cursed heroine
Burden of power
Ancient magic & prophecy
Political intrigue
Found family & loyalty
Fate vs. choice
Secrets of the past revealed
July 19, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I absolutely love Gelpi's work⎼her story telling is powerful, layered, and emotionally rich. The first two books were incredible, and Part Two only deepens the magic. Her world-building is vivid and grounded in a kind of mythology that feels both ancient and intimate. The character development continues to shine. Kharis's internal growth mirrors the epic scale of the story.
In this installment, Kharis is training at the Eliza Temple and finally uncovers the truth behind her curse. We see her envision a life without it, the one where Saya is free and where a deep, tragic love with her protector Itzu begins to bloom in full. Aghet Mendi's real story is finally revealed⎼and he receives the justice he's long deserved. And the figure Poliormos, teased throughout the series, is finally brought into the light.
The cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping. Gelpi doesn't just end a book⎼she rips the ground out from under you and leaves you breathless for more. If you are a fan of slow-burn fantasy with lyrical writing, deeply rooted myth, and characters that live in your heart, this series is a MUST READ.
Thank you, A.S.R. Gelpi, for creating a world that feels both epic and deeply personal. I can't wait for the next one.
My sincerest thanks to NetGalley, Silver River Publishing, and A.S.R. Gelpi for the opportunity to read and review this story.
I absolutely love Gelpi's work⎼her story telling is powerful, layered, and emotionally rich. The first two books were incredible, and Part Two only deepens the magic. Her world-building is vivid and grounded in a kind of mythology that feels both ancient and intimate. The character development continues to shine. Kharis's internal growth mirrors the epic scale of the story.
In this installment, Kharis is training at the Eliza Temple and finally uncovers the truth behind her curse. We see her envision a life without it, the one where Saya is free and where a deep, tragic love with her protector Itzu begins to bloom in full. Aghet Mendi's real story is finally revealed⎼and he receives the justice he's long deserved. And the figure Poliormos, teased throughout the series, is finally brought into the light.
The cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping. Gelpi doesn't just end a book⎼she rips the ground out from under you and leaves you breathless for more. If you are a fan of slow-burn fantasy with lyrical writing, deeply rooted myth, and characters that live in your heart, this series is a MUST READ.
Thank you, A.S.R. Gelpi, for creating a world that feels both epic and deeply personal. I can't wait for the next one.
My sincerest thanks to NetGalley, Silver River Publishing, and A.S.R. Gelpi for the opportunity to read and review this story.
July 26, 2025
The Dandelion Tree: Part Two by A.S.R. Gepi did not disappoint with this EPIC YA fantasy yet deeply personal second book. Her story telling is powerful, layered, and emotionally rich. The first two books were incredible, and Part Two only deepens the magic. Her world-building is vivid and grounded in a kind of mythology that feels both ancient and intimate. The character development continues to shine. Kharis's internal growth mirrors the epic scale of the story.
In this installment, Kharis is training at the Eliza Temple and finally uncovers the truth behind her curse. We see her envision a life without it. Aghet Mendi's real story is finally revealed. And the figure Poliormos is finally brought into the light.
The cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping.
Gelpi doesn't just end a book normally. She tends to rip the ground out from under your feet and leave you breathless for more.
If you are a fan of slow-burn fantasy with lyrical writing and deeply rooted myth, this series is a MUST READ.
Thanks to NetGalley, Silver River Publishing, and A.S.R. Gelpi for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
In this installment, Kharis is training at the Eliza Temple and finally uncovers the truth behind her curse. We see her envision a life without it. Aghet Mendi's real story is finally revealed. And the figure Poliormos is finally brought into the light.
The cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping.
Gelpi doesn't just end a book normally. She tends to rip the ground out from under your feet and leave you breathless for more.
If you are a fan of slow-burn fantasy with lyrical writing and deeply rooted myth, this series is a MUST READ.
Thanks to NetGalley, Silver River Publishing, and A.S.R. Gelpi for the gifted eARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 17, 2025
A Lyrical Descent into Myth and Madness
➡️ 📜 Plot: The story follows Kharis as she struggles to break a thousand-year-old curse and control an inner fire demon. Her quest for answers takes her through a world of ancient immortals and dangerous secrets, forcing her to confront both the past and her own fracturing mind.
➡️ 🐌 Pacing: This is a deliberate, slow-burn fantasy. The narrative focuses deeply on character introspection and building atmospheric tension rather than on constant action, rewarding patient readers with immense emotional depth.
➡️ 🤔 Characters: The novel is a powerful character study of its protagonist, Kharis. Her journey is a raw and compelling exploration of grief, trauma, and the desperate search for control in a life defined by a terrible fate.
➡️ 🌟 Verdict: "The Dandelion Tree, Part Two" is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant epic fantasy for those who love lyrical prose and deep, character-driven stories. It is an excellent continuation of the series that delivers on its promise of mythic scope and profound introspection
Thanks to Netgalley, editor and writer for the Arc
➡️ 📜 Plot: The story follows Kharis as she struggles to break a thousand-year-old curse and control an inner fire demon. Her quest for answers takes her through a world of ancient immortals and dangerous secrets, forcing her to confront both the past and her own fracturing mind.
➡️ 🐌 Pacing: This is a deliberate, slow-burn fantasy. The narrative focuses deeply on character introspection and building atmospheric tension rather than on constant action, rewarding patient readers with immense emotional depth.
➡️ 🤔 Characters: The novel is a powerful character study of its protagonist, Kharis. Her journey is a raw and compelling exploration of grief, trauma, and the desperate search for control in a life defined by a terrible fate.
➡️ 🌟 Verdict: "The Dandelion Tree, Part Two" is a beautifully written, emotionally resonant epic fantasy for those who love lyrical prose and deep, character-driven stories. It is an excellent continuation of the series that delivers on its promise of mythic scope and profound introspection
Thanks to Netgalley, editor and writer for the Arc
October 7, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book. Although it was a bit of a struggle to get a copy of the first 2 books considering I wasn't subscribed to Kindle Unlimited.
Part Two picks up right where the first book left off, but it feels a lot heavier and more emotional. The story dives deeper into Kharis’s struggles, and I liked how raw and vulnerable she felt here. Some of her choices frustrated me, but that’s what made her real.
The world also expands—more danger, more alliances, more betrayal. I loved the atmosphere and the way the dandelion theme ties everything together. It’s a story about survival, sacrifice, and figuring out who you really are.
A few parts still dragged in the middle, and with so many POVs and side plots, I sometimes felt pulled away from the main story. I would have thought that being in the third book - I would already be hooked but there are still some stagnant moments that made me a want to DNF it a tiny bit.
Part Two picks up right where the first book left off, but it feels a lot heavier and more emotional. The story dives deeper into Kharis’s struggles, and I liked how raw and vulnerable she felt here. Some of her choices frustrated me, but that’s what made her real.
The world also expands—more danger, more alliances, more betrayal. I loved the atmosphere and the way the dandelion theme ties everything together. It’s a story about survival, sacrifice, and figuring out who you really are.
A few parts still dragged in the middle, and with so many POVs and side plots, I sometimes felt pulled away from the main story. I would have thought that being in the third book - I would already be hooked but there are still some stagnant moments that made me a want to DNF it a tiny bit.
November 19, 2025
The first two books in this YA fantasy are wonderfully magical, and The Dandelion Tree Part Two picks up immediately where the previous installment left off. Kharis finally discovers the truth behind her ancient curse. This revelation leaves her desperate for control of her own destiny. She will be forced to confront her past in a story that becomes as much of an inner journey as an external one.
Galpi's lyrical prose remains a standout, as well as the original mythology.
And that cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping
tropes=
-slow-burn fantasy
-original mythology
-lyrical writing
-ancient curse
Thank you Netgalley and A.S.R. Gelpi for the ARC - this review reflects my honest opinion.
Galpi's lyrical prose remains a standout, as well as the original mythology.
And that cliffhanger? Jaw-dropping
tropes=
-slow-burn fantasy
-original mythology
-lyrical writing
-ancient curse
Thank you Netgalley and A.S.R. Gelpi for the ARC - this review reflects my honest opinion.
September 8, 2025
This series still stands as one of my favorites. I absolutely love the way Gelpi writes emotions and relationships! The richness and depth of the characters is absolutely beautiful and the way the story just seems to unfold while completely enveloping the reader is just something that must be experienced.
The FMC is so full of real emotions and personal struggles that it is easy to relate to her as she moves forward on her journey.
If you want an immersive, emotional, and highly engaging story - this is the one for you.
The FMC is so full of real emotions and personal struggles that it is easy to relate to her as she moves forward on her journey.
If you want an immersive, emotional, and highly engaging story - this is the one for you.
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