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The Astrellian Heirs
The Reckoning of Gods
Reeling from loss, Princess Elana Sable of Adrithia is thrust into a world of politics and war she’s woefully unprepared for. She finds herself more isolated than ever when she sends her sister, Aislinn, on an important mission for the kingdom. With few people left to trust, she seeks help from Prince Aidan of Ocarin in discovering who is attacking the continent. Their journey for answers takes them to the kingdom of Aaranor, where they must pass dangerous trials to gain entry to the Great Archives. Time is running short, and there’s more than books to discover in the ancient library. Will they find what they need to unite the kingdoms?
Meanwhile, Aislinn’s misadventures take her to a place she never imagined she’d be…in the middle of an enemy’s war camp. For the first time in her life, she’s forced to confront her own weaknesses as she struggles to survive. She receives help from some unexpected allies as she fights to make it back to her family.
War is no longer brewing, it’s here, and the heirs of Astrellia are about to learn exactly who they’re up against.
Meanwhile, Aislinn’s misadventures take her to a place she never imagined she’d be…in the middle of an enemy’s war camp. For the first time in her life, she’s forced to confront her own weaknesses as she struggles to survive. She receives help from some unexpected allies as she fights to make it back to her family.
War is no longer brewing, it’s here, and the heirs of Astrellia are about to learn exactly who they’re up against.
502 pages, Paperback
Published September 18, 2025
8 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Kielisch
2 books41 followersA dreamer born into a world without dragons, monsters, and magic, Morgan has spent her life daydreaming in the clouds.
From practicing sword fighting with sticks in the backyard, to mixing her own potions in the mud with various wildflowers, she’s always kept a little spark of her own magic alive.
With her debut novel, The Awakening of Gods, she hopes to introduce you to one of the many fantasy worlds she regularly dreams about. Thanks for being here!
From practicing sword fighting with sticks in the backyard, to mixing her own potions in the mud with various wildflowers, she’s always kept a little spark of her own magic alive.
With her debut novel, The Awakening of Gods, she hopes to introduce you to one of the many fantasy worlds she regularly dreams about. Thanks for being here!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 19, 2025
I’m not sure I could have jumped any faster on the opportunity to ARC read a book than I did for this! The first book in this series was one of my favorites of the year, so I was beyond excited to find out what happens next in Astrellia - this time with dual POVs of the two sisters we have come to love! Thank you so much to the author, Morgan Kielisch, for the gifted ARC!
The Reckoning of Gods was another absolutely epic dive into a fantasy world I fell so hard for. Tension is rising, banter is bantering, and there are some seriously badass scenes! The action and the dual POV made this book so dynamic, and the character development kept me grounded in the storyline.
Fair warning, though? This book did make me cry, and it left me chomping at the bit for book three!
And before you even ask, yes, Morgan, I would still love you even if you were a wyrm! 😉🥹 5⭐️
The Reckoning of Gods was another absolutely epic dive into a fantasy world I fell so hard for. Tension is rising, banter is bantering, and there are some seriously badass scenes! The action and the dual POV made this book so dynamic, and the character development kept me grounded in the storyline.
Fair warning, though? This book did make me cry, and it left me chomping at the bit for book three!
And before you even ask, yes, Morgan, I would still love you even if you were a wyrm! 😉🥹 5⭐️
September 22, 2025
This is one of the best fantasy series by a new author that I have read! The debut book was fantastic, and this sequel was just as enjoyable, with epic battles, magical creatures, and even an enchanted library. I am in love with Astrellia, and these characters!
I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and learning more about the various kingdoms within this world. The characters are complex and likeable, even the villains like Calder who isn't all that good at being bad. 🤭 I was pleasantly surprised by some plot twists that I didn't see coming, and there are a lot of intriguing secondary storylines unfolding for each of the heirs.
Honestly the story and characters are a 5/5 for me, and the author's writing is really strong. Regrettably, I did deduct a star from my rating because some detailed editing is needed. I'm happy to overlook the occasional typo or grammatical error, but this also had some characters' names mixed up and a timeline that didn't quite make sense. These issues are easily fixable and could make this book truly outstanding.
I'm very much looking forward to the final book in the trilogy!
I am grateful to the author and Book Sirens for providing me with an advance review copy for free. I have since purchased my own copy, and am leaving a review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and learning more about the various kingdoms within this world. The characters are complex and likeable, even the villains like Calder who isn't all that good at being bad. 🤭 I was pleasantly surprised by some plot twists that I didn't see coming, and there are a lot of intriguing secondary storylines unfolding for each of the heirs.
Honestly the story and characters are a 5/5 for me, and the author's writing is really strong. Regrettably, I did deduct a star from my rating because some detailed editing is needed. I'm happy to overlook the occasional typo or grammatical error, but this also had some characters' names mixed up and a timeline that didn't quite make sense. These issues are easily fixable and could make this book truly outstanding.
I'm very much looking forward to the final book in the trilogy!
I am grateful to the author and Book Sirens for providing me with an advance review copy for free. I have since purchased my own copy, and am leaving a review voluntarily.
September 18, 2025
Don’t mind me finishing my review at the 11th hour. The length it took me to read this has nothing to do with the quality of the book and everything to do with my my seething hatred of k*ndles.
Anyways as someone who is not really a fantasy stan you all may be surprised but here we are. I surprisingly enjoyed book 1 a lot which is rare for me so i did the most insane thing for me possible - i requested an E- Arc. I know? Me voluntarily reading on my k*ndle? Anything for Morgan I suppose. I love a little challenge, a quest towards a mystery if you will so this continued to be right up my alley. I loved the dual perspective here (although kinda evil the whole book wasn’t just Rayna and Aislinn but alas). Of course I loved Rian - we luv a silly little golden retriever man. And Ceridwen was obvi my fav part (iyky book club besties). I cannot wait to have a physical copy in my hands.
This is a vile moment though because as I write this I’m remembering I have to wait many moons for the next book and this ended on another cliffhanger but I’ll live somehow.
Here’s to Morgan having more NyQuil fever dreams and writing us more amazing novels.
P.s. Maris can fight me I will throw hands, I hate that she has 5/7ths of my name.
Anyways as someone who is not really a fantasy stan you all may be surprised but here we are. I surprisingly enjoyed book 1 a lot which is rare for me so i did the most insane thing for me possible - i requested an E- Arc. I know? Me voluntarily reading on my k*ndle? Anything for Morgan I suppose. I love a little challenge, a quest towards a mystery if you will so this continued to be right up my alley. I loved the dual perspective here (although kinda evil the whole book wasn’t just Rayna and Aislinn but alas). Of course I loved Rian - we luv a silly little golden retriever man. And Ceridwen was obvi my fav part (iyky book club besties). I cannot wait to have a physical copy in my hands.
This is a vile moment though because as I write this I’m remembering I have to wait many moons for the next book and this ended on another cliffhanger but I’ll live somehow.
Here’s to Morgan having more NyQuil fever dreams and writing us more amazing novels.
P.s. Maris can fight me I will throw hands, I hate that she has 5/7ths of my name.
September 20, 2025
I received this book as an advanced reader copy for free and I am voluntarily writing an honest review.
This is a good continuation of Elana’s journey as heir. I felt like this book had a lot of information and emotions that are being worked through and not enough pages to fully grasp it all. The timeline also moves really fast which makes it a little harder to follow. I did enjoy watching the relationship between Elana and Aidan develop and grow. I also do think we needed a bit more from his character considering the role and impact he has on our FMC and as an heir. I’m not talking about needing his POV but we don’t really know a lot about him. We learned a little about who he was and what/who was important to him from the first book but he really takes on a supporting role in this book, WHICH IS FINE, but he deserves more development and background. (We do get to meet his father) There is still a little mystery in this book but ultimately I needed more. There are plenty of twists and new characters and creatures that you likely will come to love.
This is a good continuation of Elana’s journey as heir. I felt like this book had a lot of information and emotions that are being worked through and not enough pages to fully grasp it all. The timeline also moves really fast which makes it a little harder to follow. I did enjoy watching the relationship between Elana and Aidan develop and grow. I also do think we needed a bit more from his character considering the role and impact he has on our FMC and as an heir. I’m not talking about needing his POV but we don’t really know a lot about him. We learned a little about who he was and what/who was important to him from the first book but he really takes on a supporting role in this book, WHICH IS FINE, but he deserves more development and background. (We do get to meet his father) There is still a little mystery in this book but ultimately I needed more. There are plenty of twists and new characters and creatures that you likely will come to love.
August 11, 2025
Well, friends… she’s done it again! I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of The Reckoning of Gods and, let me tell you—once I opened it, the rest of the world faded away. Dinner? Forgotten. Sleep? Optional. This book had me hooked from the very first page.
Without giving away a single spoiler, I can say it hits that magical balance every fantasy reader craves. The pace sweeps you right back into the breathtaking world the author has built, without ever rushing the journey. There’s so much heart here—moments that make you laugh, moments that make you pause, and moments that quietly demand you keep turning the page. Just when the emotions start to swell, a perfectly timed dash of humor or warmth steps in, making the experience feel rich and layered.
We spend time with the characters we’ve missed while meeting new ones who bring their own spark and intrigue to the story (no names—you’ll want to discover them yourself!). Every chapter pulls you deeper, and by the end, you know this is a world that’s going to stick with you.
This is fantasy at its most captivating—immersive, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. A solid 10/10, five-star read. I can’t wait to see everyone else swept away the way I was.
Without giving away a single spoiler, I can say it hits that magical balance every fantasy reader craves. The pace sweeps you right back into the breathtaking world the author has built, without ever rushing the journey. There’s so much heart here—moments that make you laugh, moments that make you pause, and moments that quietly demand you keep turning the page. Just when the emotions start to swell, a perfectly timed dash of humor or warmth steps in, making the experience feel rich and layered.
We spend time with the characters we’ve missed while meeting new ones who bring their own spark and intrigue to the story (no names—you’ll want to discover them yourself!). Every chapter pulls you deeper, and by the end, you know this is a world that’s going to stick with you.
This is fantasy at its most captivating—immersive, heartfelt, and impossible to put down. A solid 10/10, five-star read. I can’t wait to see everyone else swept away the way I was.
August 11, 2025
I received an ARC for this and there is no sophomore slump here! Tons of action, witty banter, and amazing women. If you’re looking for spice, this isn’t it but it’s got some romance elements.
I love the recap to start the book. It had twists and turns, and again just enough development to not get bored. I enjoy all the characters and love the dual narrators vs two books.
I love this series and hope it grows to be a huge success! I went to a book fair and met the author and was immediately smitten by the premise. The writing isn’t overly worded, no excessive use of overused words (I can go the rest of my reading life without reading cacophony 😆), but isn’t overly juvenile.
This series is worth checking out!
I love the recap to start the book. It had twists and turns, and again just enough development to not get bored. I enjoy all the characters and love the dual narrators vs two books.
I love this series and hope it grows to be a huge success! I went to a book fair and met the author and was immediately smitten by the premise. The writing isn’t overly worded, no excessive use of overused words (I can go the rest of my reading life without reading cacophony 😆), but isn’t overly juvenile.
This series is worth checking out!
September 26, 2025
The cliff hangers be HANGGGGINNN 😅😅
I can’t wait for book 3! What a journey it’s been so far!
I can’t wait for book 3! What a journey it’s been so far!
October 7, 2025
This book was a great extension of book 1.
I really enjoyed the character and plot development as these sisters continued to discover more about their lands, the gods, and the history of it all.
I look forward to continuing this series!
I really enjoyed the character and plot development as these sisters continued to discover more about their lands, the gods, and the history of it all.
I look forward to continuing this series!
October 27, 2025
i liked this one more than the first!! i’m looking forward to book 3 (and the novella?!)
September 16, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an ARC for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily, and sharing my honest opinion.
After discovering the first book of this series (The Awakening of Gods), I was hooked into this fantasy world that Morgan Kielisch created. When I saw she was looking for ARC readers for her second book, I was QUICK to apply!
I was not disappointed. The book picked right up where the first left off, and I was so happy to absorb myself back into this story. Second books can tend to not be as engaging as the first in the series, but this book really did hold up to the first.
I will say, if you are looking for a spicy romance, this isn’t that. There is a romance element, but there are so many other relationships that are explored in this book that I feel like the romance wasn’t always the main focus. We get sister relationships, strong friendships, parent relationships, and I think they are all done well.
There were some twists that I genuinely did not see coming, and we left off on quite a cliffhanger! I can’t wait to see what book 3 is going to bring!
After discovering the first book of this series (The Awakening of Gods), I was hooked into this fantasy world that Morgan Kielisch created. When I saw she was looking for ARC readers for her second book, I was QUICK to apply!
I was not disappointed. The book picked right up where the first left off, and I was so happy to absorb myself back into this story. Second books can tend to not be as engaging as the first in the series, but this book really did hold up to the first.
I will say, if you are looking for a spicy romance, this isn’t that. There is a romance element, but there are so many other relationships that are explored in this book that I feel like the romance wasn’t always the main focus. We get sister relationships, strong friendships, parent relationships, and I think they are all done well.
There were some twists that I genuinely did not see coming, and we left off on quite a cliffhanger! I can’t wait to see what book 3 is going to bring!
September 19, 2025
The scream I scrumpt when I realized I was at the end of this book…. Another masterpiece. I’m ravenous for book 3 now. I couldn’t put this book down, and seeing the relationships and characters continue to develop was so fun.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinions.
September 3, 2025
The Reckoning of Gods Book 2 of The Astrellian Heirs series did not disappoint. I was quickly transported back into the kingdom of Adrithia with the turmoil from the previous battle. Elana and Aislinn want answers about who this mysterious 'Empress' is and why their soldiers have the darkest of eyes and why they feel no pain. It's like they don't have a purpose except to kill anyone and everyone in their path.
I love the dual POV from Aislinn and Elana. Aislinn is a force to be reckoned with. She is fierce and loyal. She is a mighty warrior. I loved hearing the history of the kingdoms and why the Gods gave powers to certain nobility on the continent and we learn who this 'Empress' is that is determined to claim all the kingdoms on the continent for herself.
In this second book of the series Elana and Aislinn part ways again but it was only supposed to be for a few days until Aislinn is captured by the enemy.
Elana and friends go to the Archives to learn about the enemy who threatens all of their lives. There are several twists and turns that I never saw coming. The cliffhanger at the end has me yearning for book 3.
I love the author's vivid descriptions. I feel like I am right alongside the characters in the book almost as if I am in the book with them. Love this fantasy world.
The summary from Book 1 in the beginning of the book was an added bonus. It would be so useful in other series. There were aspects of book 1 that I had forgotten about.
Read this book! You will not be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the dual POV from Aislinn and Elana. Aislinn is a force to be reckoned with. She is fierce and loyal. She is a mighty warrior. I loved hearing the history of the kingdoms and why the Gods gave powers to certain nobility on the continent and we learn who this 'Empress' is that is determined to claim all the kingdoms on the continent for herself.
In this second book of the series Elana and Aislinn part ways again but it was only supposed to be for a few days until Aislinn is captured by the enemy.
Elana and friends go to the Archives to learn about the enemy who threatens all of their lives. There are several twists and turns that I never saw coming. The cliffhanger at the end has me yearning for book 3.
I love the author's vivid descriptions. I feel like I am right alongside the characters in the book almost as if I am in the book with them. Love this fantasy world.
The summary from Book 1 in the beginning of the book was an added bonus. It would be so useful in other series. There were aspects of book 1 that I had forgotten about.
Read this book! You will not be disappointed.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2025
I received the ARC for this book and omgggg I’m so glad I did! The story line, character development and world building is awesome - the author got more into the history of Astrellia and how the kingdoms came about. We also learn that Astrellia is not the only continent which has our favorite characters questioning everything they’ve been taught since they were kids.
Elana is learning to master her gifts given to her by the twin Goddesses all while dealing with her grief and preparing to take her place as Queen. Her relationship with Aidan takes a spin because she doesn’t feel she can trust him after the last book. Aislinn continues being the badass warrior that she is while trying to figure out who this Empress is along with Elana.
The book is dual POV and we get a special POV at the end of the book which I totally appreciated it! That ending had me shook, I was not expecting it! Needless to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and I cannot wait for the third and final book to come out!
Elana is learning to master her gifts given to her by the twin Goddesses all while dealing with her grief and preparing to take her place as Queen. Her relationship with Aidan takes a spin because she doesn’t feel she can trust him after the last book. Aislinn continues being the badass warrior that she is while trying to figure out who this Empress is along with Elana.
The book is dual POV and we get a special POV at the end of the book which I totally appreciated it! That ending had me shook, I was not expecting it! Needless to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and I cannot wait for the third and final book to come out!
September 30, 2025
The Reckoning of Gods builds really well on the solid foundation of the first book in the series, continuing to deliver depth and intrigue. While I was more gripped by the first book, this pushed the story forward in exciting ways, unravelling plenty of new lore about the Gods and the secrets behind Elana’s family as well. There is duel focus on Elana and Aislinn and while I usually prefer a single pov, Aislinn is such an interesting character to get into the mind of. There’s a lot of political intrigue from both povs, but each showcasing a unique side of it. There is still a romantic side plot, though I didn’t find myself to be as interested in that this time around, I was much more engrossed in the new mythology aspects. This ends on another cliffhanger and there is still so much more to see and learn; about the origin of the Gods, the Empress, the escalation of the war. I’m really looking forward to seeing how it all ties together and can’t wait for the final book!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 30, 2025
I LOVED this book. I love this series, and the only thing I'm sad about is having to wait for the next one! I truly can't remember a recent time when I read a fantasy series with such great pacing, plot, characters and character development…. and don't get me started about some of the things that surprised me (because I'm not spoiling anything)! There's a small spicy scene, but nothing overly detailed or long. Personally, I feel that's the best way to include spice in a book. I want to read about the story, the characters, the world, etc.
In full clarity, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In closing, Morgan makes me care about these characters and their world, their magic system, their history and lore….. I could easily see this series on TV. I can't imagine how much readers will love this series once they get their hands on it. Morgan, please don't ever stop bringing your stories to our lives.
In full clarity, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In closing, Morgan makes me care about these characters and their world, their magic system, their history and lore….. I could easily see this series on TV. I can't imagine how much readers will love this series once they get their hands on it. Morgan, please don't ever stop bringing your stories to our lives.
August 10, 2025
Disclaimer: I received an advanced review copy for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily to share my honest opinion.
What a cliffhanger! What a storyline! Book 2 lived up to the hype and then some. Elana is back in action with an even bigger trial to overcome. If she is to rule the kingdom she has a lot of work to do and not a lot of time to do it in. With her heart reeling from loss, a war on the horizon, a friend that is a traitor and a big secret looming over her head; she has so many things to figure out to save her family her kingdom and her friends.
Most sequels usually struggle to live up to book one but this far surpassed my expectations. It was so hard to put down that I read it in two sittings. I can’t wait to see what the conclusion of this trilogy is and what Elana, her sister, and heir friends do to save their kingdoms and their people.
What a cliffhanger! What a storyline! Book 2 lived up to the hype and then some. Elana is back in action with an even bigger trial to overcome. If she is to rule the kingdom she has a lot of work to do and not a lot of time to do it in. With her heart reeling from loss, a war on the horizon, a friend that is a traitor and a big secret looming over her head; she has so many things to figure out to save her family her kingdom and her friends.
Most sequels usually struggle to live up to book one but this far surpassed my expectations. It was so hard to put down that I read it in two sittings. I can’t wait to see what the conclusion of this trilogy is and what Elana, her sister, and heir friends do to save their kingdoms and their people.
October 22, 2025
The Reckoning of Gods is a fast paced romantacy picking up where we left off after The Awakening of Gods. I can't say that I envy Elana and the position she is put into. Having spent her whole life as the unimportant second born daughter, she is wholly unequiped to lead her country. Forget about being ready to protect that kingdom from war. And lets not forget the emotional turmoil she is in as she grapples with grief and guilt.
This time we are given two povs: Elana and Aislinn. Each had their own unique voice, which I appreciated. But this also meant that there were multiple storylines to follow while also openning up the world of Astrelia for the reader. We got to see more places, and meet so many more people, which only added to the depth of the story.
There is an open-door scene, pretty short, and skippable.
This time we are given two povs: Elana and Aislinn. Each had their own unique voice, which I appreciated. But this also meant that there were multiple storylines to follow while also openning up the world of Astrelia for the reader. We got to see more places, and meet so many more people, which only added to the depth of the story.
There is an open-door scene, pretty short, and skippable.
August 20, 2025
this book was even better than the first one and i didn’t know if that was possible. the world building really improved here and i loved learning more about the history and the other kingdoms of the world.
the dual pov was a surprise to me but i. live. for. multiple. povs. seriously it just adds so much to a story like i can’t even describe it. getting both sisters’ stories and headspace was such a delight that changed things up from the first book.
elana’s journey and emotional growth throughout this story really stuck with me. i was rooting for her the entire time. and i absolutely adore her relationship with aidan and loved seeing how that transpired here after the events of book 1.
thank you to the author for the arc.
the dual pov was a surprise to me but i. live. for. multiple. povs. seriously it just adds so much to a story like i can’t even describe it. getting both sisters’ stories and headspace was such a delight that changed things up from the first book.
elana’s journey and emotional growth throughout this story really stuck with me. i was rooting for her the entire time. and i absolutely adore her relationship with aidan and loved seeing how that transpired here after the events of book 1.
thank you to the author for the arc.
October 1, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens for the ARC!
First, I loved that it had a recap with all the major details in book 1 it was a great refresher! This book takes place shortly after the events of book 1. I highly enjoyed the way you see the sisters navigate their grief while also experiencing the court life and the aftermath/coronation. Aidan don’t get me started!! The patience he has the and understanding and confidence is everything!!!!!!!! Also I LOVED the intrigue and not knowing what’s next and being as confused as Elana is without feeling annoyed that I don’t know what’s going on! The battles and the way everyone interacts the plot twists and reveals were everything. I seriously loved this book and cannot wait to see where the next one goes!!
First, I loved that it had a recap with all the major details in book 1 it was a great refresher! This book takes place shortly after the events of book 1. I highly enjoyed the way you see the sisters navigate their grief while also experiencing the court life and the aftermath/coronation. Aidan don’t get me started!! The patience he has the and understanding and confidence is everything!!!!!!!! Also I LOVED the intrigue and not knowing what’s next and being as confused as Elana is without feeling annoyed that I don’t know what’s going on! The battles and the way everyone interacts the plot twists and reveals were everything. I seriously loved this book and cannot wait to see where the next one goes!!
August 11, 2025
I'm so glad I was able to get back into the Astrellian Heirs world, it was a strong concept and worked with the genre that I was looking for. I enjoyed how good the overall fantasy adventure concept was in the story. The characters worked well overall and enjoyed how they were so well written. It had that fantasy element and was able to enjoy going on this journey with the characters. I loved the romance that was happening and am excited for more from Morgan Kielisch. Morgan Kielisch has a strong writing style and I enjoyed this book and the previous book and how it was used in the fantasy genre.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 24, 2025
Honestly? This book is a thief of reality. Just like with book one, I was gone the second I opened it, total tunnel vision, hours lost, world forgotten.
We’re thrown straight back into the story after the chaos of the last battle, no slow build, no easing in, just bam, right back in the thick of it. And it’s glorious.
Elana, our FMC, is navigating more than most could bear. She never expected to take the throne, and now she’s thrust into a war she barely understands. Grief, trauma, expectation, it’s all crashing down while she’s still trying to master her powers and carry the weight of her kingdom. Her guilt over her father’s death is a wound that never quite stops bleeding, especially as it ties directly into her strained relationship with Aidan. Their dynamic is heart-wrenching; her resentment and pain clash with his loyalty and restraint, and watching them try to bridge that chasm was one…that both frustrated and gave us all that slow burn we secretly hate to love.
And Aidan? Where do we even begin? Loyal to a fault, steady when everything else is falling apart, strong enough to carry his own demons without letting them define him. He’s one of those characters you can’t help but root for even amidst the angst. Gunna say it. Team Aidan.
The cast only gets richer here. Aislinn, fierce sister-warrior, whose capture adds an extra layer of urgency. Ceridwen, the ‘animal’ in the archives, such an unexpectedly magical detail that made me grin. Rian and Rayna, whose friendships shine with loyalty, banter, and hope, grounding the story in much-needed warmth amidst the darkness.
Honestly, between them, Aidan, Elana, Aislinn, Rayna and Rian, it feels like this small circle of bonds is what’s standing between the world and total destruction.
The lore deepens beautifully. Trials at Aaranor to enter the great archives, revelations about why the gods gifted nobility with powers, and the ever-looming question: who is the Empress? Every answer sparks ten more questions, and the pacing keeps you teetering on the edge of discovery. The twists hit hard, especially revelations around Elana’s father, which left me wide-eyed and reeling.
Not every character shone for me (Calder and his father? Ugh. No thank you), but that only added to the delicious tension of the political threads. The story makes it clear: war is here, and no one is safe.
And then there’s that ending. A cliffhanger. A brutal one. The kind that makes you slam the book shut, stare at the ceiling, and let out an incoherent scream because HOW DARE IT END THERE.
This sequel took everything I loved about book one, the action, the heart, the complexity, and turned it up ten notches. It’s war and politics, gods and curses, friendship and betrayal, grief and growth. It left me desperate for the next page that doesn’t exist yet. I CANNOT WAIT for book 3.
We’re thrown straight back into the story after the chaos of the last battle, no slow build, no easing in, just bam, right back in the thick of it. And it’s glorious.
Elana, our FMC, is navigating more than most could bear. She never expected to take the throne, and now she’s thrust into a war she barely understands. Grief, trauma, expectation, it’s all crashing down while she’s still trying to master her powers and carry the weight of her kingdom. Her guilt over her father’s death is a wound that never quite stops bleeding, especially as it ties directly into her strained relationship with Aidan. Their dynamic is heart-wrenching; her resentment and pain clash with his loyalty and restraint, and watching them try to bridge that chasm was one…that both frustrated and gave us all that slow burn we secretly hate to love.
And Aidan? Where do we even begin? Loyal to a fault, steady when everything else is falling apart, strong enough to carry his own demons without letting them define him. He’s one of those characters you can’t help but root for even amidst the angst. Gunna say it. Team Aidan.
The cast only gets richer here. Aislinn, fierce sister-warrior, whose capture adds an extra layer of urgency. Ceridwen, the ‘animal’ in the archives, such an unexpectedly magical detail that made me grin. Rian and Rayna, whose friendships shine with loyalty, banter, and hope, grounding the story in much-needed warmth amidst the darkness.
Honestly, between them, Aidan, Elana, Aislinn, Rayna and Rian, it feels like this small circle of bonds is what’s standing between the world and total destruction.
The lore deepens beautifully. Trials at Aaranor to enter the great archives, revelations about why the gods gifted nobility with powers, and the ever-looming question: who is the Empress? Every answer sparks ten more questions, and the pacing keeps you teetering on the edge of discovery. The twists hit hard, especially revelations around Elana’s father, which left me wide-eyed and reeling.
Not every character shone for me (Calder and his father? Ugh. No thank you), but that only added to the delicious tension of the political threads. The story makes it clear: war is here, and no one is safe.
And then there’s that ending. A cliffhanger. A brutal one. The kind that makes you slam the book shut, stare at the ceiling, and let out an incoherent scream because HOW DARE IT END THERE.
This sequel took everything I loved about book one, the action, the heart, the complexity, and turned it up ten notches. It’s war and politics, gods and curses, friendship and betrayal, grief and growth. It left me desperate for the next page that doesn’t exist yet. I CANNOT WAIT for book 3.
September 4, 2025
The Empress is coming!
If you haven't read the first book you will be lost. This is the continuation of The Awakening of Gods. So much happens in this one. We learn so much about the other heirs Rayna, Rian, Aidan and Calder. Not all of them are nice. They have all been gifted powers by the Gods'. They now have to trust each other to stop a war. This one also ends with a cliffhanger. I'll be anxiously awaiting book 3!
If you haven't read the first book you will be lost. This is the continuation of The Awakening of Gods. So much happens in this one. We learn so much about the other heirs Rayna, Rian, Aidan and Calder. Not all of them are nice. They have all been gifted powers by the Gods'. They now have to trust each other to stop a war. This one also ends with a cliffhanger. I'll be anxiously awaiting book 3!
September 24, 2025
The second book in the series DID NOT DISAPPOINT. I think the best thing about these books are the characters and their relatability despite being badass magic warriors. I will be keeping a very close eye on Morgan Kielisch and her journey as an author. Thank you for sharing your wonderful story with us!
September 15, 2025
This is the second book of the series.
The plot twists and surprises keep coming. It is one shock after another that keeps you on your toes. Kielisch proves once again that she is a master storyteller. This is one that you don’t want to miss!
The plot twists and surprises keep coming. It is one shock after another that keeps you on your toes. Kielisch proves once again that she is a master storyteller. This is one that you don’t want to miss!
September 26, 2025
I think these books could have been combined into one honestly 🤷♀️ Idk, i did start to feel more invested in this book to be fair.
Maybe im just subconsciously salty that i have to wait for book 3 to complete the story lol
Maybe im just subconsciously salty that i have to wait for book 3 to complete the story lol
October 20, 2025
Oh my Goddess, what an emotional road this book takes you on... through the emotions of a devastating loss (from book one) to the battle & fight scenes. The character growth and plot had me captivated. I am really looking forward to the next book of this series.
December 2, 2025
I'm obsessed with the first book so I was so excited to read this one! It's dual POV of the sisters. All the twists and craziness of this story is incredible. the next book can't come fast enough for me!
February 18, 2026
Keeps getting better
This series keeps getting better!! I loved hearing more about everyone’s journey and there were so many surprises that had my jaw on the floor. Can’t wait for book 3!!
This series keeps getting better!! I loved hearing more about everyone’s journey and there were so many surprises that had my jaw on the floor. Can’t wait for book 3!!
August 30, 2025
I received an ARC and I cannot wait for book three, loved the pacing, banter and world building - there were a few twists I wasn’t expecting!
September 11, 2025
First off, WOW!
What an incredible continuation of Elana and Aislinn's story, all of Astrellia really. This book was full of twists and raw emotions. And the ending, WHAT! I need book 3!
What an incredible continuation of Elana and Aislinn's story, all of Astrellia really. This book was full of twists and raw emotions. And the ending, WHAT! I need book 3!
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