What do you think?
Rate this book
Cadence of the Fallen #1.5
A Composition of Scars
Not yet published
Expected 24 Mar 26Before Draven was the feared captain over one of Bathara’s revered aggregates, he was merely a teenager learning how to better his magic, better his combat, and better himself. With his brothers by his side, Draven battles against a world that has carved out his identity with a ruthless blade—despite the wrath Tynan Dalmar brings down on him each time he falls short of his father’s measure. But after a particularly cruel interaction where the fraying chords holding his family together officially snap, Draven’s mother whisks him away in the middle of the night to finally put distance between them and House Dalmar.
It is in the unsuspecting city of Príth—where colors dance and streets thrum with a living heartbeat—that Draven’s world expands far broader than he ever imagined. And as he watches his mother’s smile return while confronting his deepest fears, Draven believes he has finally found his place in the world. Has discovered the true warmth of a family at last.
Until his father shatters that illusion into a million, serrated pieces.
A Composition of Scars is a novella in the Cadence of the Fallen series that tells the tale of how Draven received his deepest scars. The ones that always remain, alive and bleeding beneath his skin. It should be read after A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
It is in the unsuspecting city of Príth—where colors dance and streets thrum with a living heartbeat—that Draven’s world expands far broader than he ever imagined. And as he watches his mother’s smile return while confronting his deepest fears, Draven believes he has finally found his place in the world. Has discovered the true warmth of a family at last.
Until his father shatters that illusion into a million, serrated pieces.
A Composition of Scars is a novella in the Cadence of the Fallen series that tells the tale of how Draven received his deepest scars. The ones that always remain, alive and bleeding beneath his skin. It should be read after A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
248 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication March 24, 2026
1054 people want to read
About the author
Hazel S. Wilkes
3 books197 followersHazel is simply a lover of words and stories, overflowing with made-up worlds, scenarios, and characters. Ever since she was just a small girl, climbing out of her bedroom window to read on the roof under the stars with her trusted book light in hand (sorry, Mom), she has been enchanted by stories and the art of storytelling.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
Hazel lives in Texas with her equally nerdy fiancé, her fluffy dog-child (who's named after a character from the novel that first truly revealed the beauty in crafting words to her), and the two sweetest cats a pet mom could hope for. Aside from writing, she enjoys playing and coaching sports, watching anime, spending time with her family, and discussing books with her bookish besties.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
March 1, 2026
I am absolutely speechless after reading this novella!!! The writing is both poetic and captivating. I genuinely think I may have highlighted at least half of the book.
In this heartbreaking story we get a glimpse into Draven’s past. We see how the events that took place in his adolescent years have shaped him into the man that he has become, and we learn just how deep the scars that he carries truly run.
The author wonderfully portrays the beauty of a mother’s love as well as the devastation that comes from a father’s hatred. It is the cry your eyes out kind of heartbreak. And yet, I absolutely could not put it down.
To say that I’m invested would be an understatement. I absolutely cannot wait to see where the next book takes us.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Spice: N/A
Tropes ✨:
Found family
Young love
Devoted mother
Abusive parent
Grief
🖤: “Draven was ready to let go of the pain, and the pain was ready to let go of him. So, he did—he let go. He hoped he would become a better man for it.”
A special thank you to the author for this eARC.
In this heartbreaking story we get a glimpse into Draven’s past. We see how the events that took place in his adolescent years have shaped him into the man that he has become, and we learn just how deep the scars that he carries truly run.
The author wonderfully portrays the beauty of a mother’s love as well as the devastation that comes from a father’s hatred. It is the cry your eyes out kind of heartbreak. And yet, I absolutely could not put it down.
To say that I’m invested would be an understatement. I absolutely cannot wait to see where the next book takes us.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Spice: N/A
Tropes ✨:
Found family
Young love
Devoted mother
Abusive parent
Grief
🖤: “Draven was ready to let go of the pain, and the pain was ready to let go of him. So, he did—he let go. He hoped he would become a better man for it.”
A special thank you to the author for this eARC.
March 3, 2026
4.5☆ simply wow. this novella was poetic, captivating, and deeply emotional in a way that completely caught me off guard. getting a glimpse into draven’s adolescent years - seeing the moments that shaped him, scarred him, and ultimately forged him into the man he is now was so powerful. it added so much depth to his character that I didn’t even realize I was missing.
I knew going in that it would be painful, but I wasn’t prepared for how much it would truly affect me. there were moments where the emotion felt so raw and intimate that tears were forming before I even realized it. the writing pulled me in so effortlessly, making every heartbreak and quiet revelation hit that much harder.
this novella didn’t just add to the story, it transformed my understanding of it. now I feel an even deeper connection to the characters and their journey, and it honestly makes me want to go back to book one to experience everything again with this new perspective. what a beautiful, heartbreaking, and unforgettable addition to the series.
ty sm hazel for graciously sending me an e-arc!
I knew going in that it would be painful, but I wasn’t prepared for how much it would truly affect me. there were moments where the emotion felt so raw and intimate that tears were forming before I even realized it. the writing pulled me in so effortlessly, making every heartbreak and quiet revelation hit that much harder.
this novella didn’t just add to the story, it transformed my understanding of it. now I feel an even deeper connection to the characters and their journey, and it honestly makes me want to go back to book one to experience everything again with this new perspective. what a beautiful, heartbreaking, and unforgettable addition to the series.
ty sm hazel for graciously sending me an e-arc!
February 27, 2026
“they will just see you, and they will love you for it; when you find a person like that, you never let them go.”
—
this was just wow. it was such a well done novella. learning about draven’s backstory was so much more devastating than i could have imagined. i literally sobbed the entire last 25%.
i fear i need to go reread certain scenes from book one now for science… cuz omg.
thank you so much hazel and her team for this e-arc! i will be counting down the days until book 2! ♥︎
“𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕—𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒌—𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒈𝒐. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒓𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈—𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎.”
—
this was just wow. it was such a well done novella. learning about draven’s backstory was so much more devastating than i could have imagined. i literally sobbed the entire last 25%.
i fear i need to go reread certain scenes from book one now for science… cuz omg.
thank you so much hazel and her team for this e-arc! i will be counting down the days until book 2! ♥︎
“𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕—𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒖𝒍 𝒃𝒆𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒌—𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒍𝒆𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒈𝒐. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒅. 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒕 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒓𝒖𝒎𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈—𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒈𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒖𝒑 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to start this review out with a quote from my review on book 1:
"I really like the MMC but I do feel like he has as lot of room to grow and for us to see more of who he actually is. We only scratched the surface with who he is and I think in the next book I am going to be kicking and giggling my feet once we fully see him."
I definitely was NOT kicking and giggling my feet about him in this book, I was screaming, crying and throwing up (in a good way).
We got to see everything that made Draven who he is and I can't believe how much I love him after only 200 some pages with him. He went through so much trauma and has had to deal with such tragic events that I pray to everything that the next book he gets nothing but rainbows and sunshine.
I loved this book more than I ever expected even though all I did was cry.
The most heartful thanks to Hazel S. Wilkes for graciously letting me read this hauntingly beautiful book before it's publication, I am so honored.
"I really like the MMC but I do feel like he has as lot of room to grow and for us to see more of who he actually is. We only scratched the surface with who he is and I think in the next book I am going to be kicking and giggling my feet once we fully see him."
I definitely was NOT kicking and giggling my feet about him in this book, I was screaming, crying and throwing up (in a good way).
We got to see everything that made Draven who he is and I can't believe how much I love him after only 200 some pages with him. He went through so much trauma and has had to deal with such tragic events that I pray to everything that the next book he gets nothing but rainbows and sunshine.
I loved this book more than I ever expected even though all I did was cry.
The most heartful thanks to Hazel S. Wilkes for graciously letting me read this hauntingly beautiful book before it's publication, I am so honored.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5⭐
i know i'm baised when it’s come her but this book was so good. 🤌🤌
this was the childhood story of draven and why he become the man he is now. We get to see kiran and finlay and get know what happen between finlay and draven. i missed them.
i love that the way she portrait a mother love for her Children. how a mother love, sacrifice and protect her son. i love the new characters too. This book also show how innocent and beatiful young love is. I was crying last 25% of the book. Draven had endure alot at the age of 14. 😭😭.
i can't wait for book 2 to come out. i so excited for it🥰🥰
i know i'm baised when it’s come her but this book was so good. 🤌🤌
this was the childhood story of draven and why he become the man he is now. We get to see kiran and finlay and get know what happen between finlay and draven. i missed them.
i love that the way she portrait a mother love for her Children. how a mother love, sacrifice and protect her son. i love the new characters too. This book also show how innocent and beatiful young love is. I was crying last 25% of the book. Draven had endure alot at the age of 14. 😭😭.
i can't wait for book 2 to come out. i so excited for it🥰🥰
March 4, 2026
Just wow! After finishing A Requiem for Fallen Stars, I was dying to know more about Dravens past and the secrets he held. A composition of scars was everything I could hope for. It told the story from when Draven was a child to present day when he saw Lyra in Foreigner’s valley. Tying everything together.This book kept my interest the whole time and answered all my questions. Felt every emotion while reading this novella. It was a great read! Can’t wait for book two
March 2, 2026
Finishing off this book with actual tears running down my face and that, I guess, sums up everything this book was❤️
First off, I wanted to thank Hazel for sending me the ARC of this masterpiece and letting me be back on this world sooner than expected🥹
This author has such a way with words I could feel my heart clenching and beating out of my chest every few words. I cannot even imagine the level of pain Draven had to endure at such young age, the visuals of that chapter keep bringing tears to my eyes… and despite all that he resurfaced from his own ashes, his own pain to try and become the man his mother and Atlast always believed him to be😭 it was so beautiful to read I almost felt I was being privy to something I shouldn’t have. One of the most devastating yet beautiful stories I have ever read. I was so devastated when I read about Suzumi I almost forgot about Lyra for a second there and all the good things Draven has coming up (hopefully only good things will happen to him from here on, God knows he deserves it!) and reading the last few pages made me so incredibly happy, knowing that Dravel got that spark of light back and that he will, indeed, love and be loved in a magnificent way❤️
I cannot tell you how badly I need to have book 2 in my hands, release day can’t come soon enough !!!!
First off, I wanted to thank Hazel for sending me the ARC of this masterpiece and letting me be back on this world sooner than expected🥹
This author has such a way with words I could feel my heart clenching and beating out of my chest every few words. I cannot even imagine the level of pain Draven had to endure at such young age, the visuals of that chapter keep bringing tears to my eyes… and despite all that he resurfaced from his own ashes, his own pain to try and become the man his mother and Atlast always believed him to be😭 it was so beautiful to read I almost felt I was being privy to something I shouldn’t have. One of the most devastating yet beautiful stories I have ever read. I was so devastated when I read about Suzumi I almost forgot about Lyra for a second there and all the good things Draven has coming up (hopefully only good things will happen to him from here on, God knows he deserves it!) and reading the last few pages made me so incredibly happy, knowing that Dravel got that spark of light back and that he will, indeed, love and be loved in a magnificent way❤️
I cannot tell you how badly I need to have book 2 in my hands, release day can’t come soon enough !!!!
March 9, 2026
“We are at once deserving, and undeserving of love, and I believe we have our mortal souls to thank for that.”
No words can describe how deeply emotional & heartbreaking this novella was 😫. The insight and backstory into Draven’s childhood, what happened to him, what he survived that shaped him into who he is in the present legitimately had me tearing up.
It’s this like, soul deep sadness. One that is devastating, and really puts you through the motions. The only light felt in the fact that you are able to witness a short period that brought so much joy and love, if even only for a moment.
Draven is so resilient, and i’m so glad he is fighting to be the man his mother would’ve wanted, a man worth love. So much more than the monster his father so badly wants to turn him into.
Ugh. I’ve been reading back to back tear jerkers you guys, and I was really in my feels with this one 😫.
I can’t wait for book two!!
No words can describe how deeply emotional & heartbreaking this novella was 😫. The insight and backstory into Draven’s childhood, what happened to him, what he survived that shaped him into who he is in the present legitimately had me tearing up.
It’s this like, soul deep sadness. One that is devastating, and really puts you through the motions. The only light felt in the fact that you are able to witness a short period that brought so much joy and love, if even only for a moment.
Draven is so resilient, and i’m so glad he is fighting to be the man his mother would’ve wanted, a man worth love. So much more than the monster his father so badly wants to turn him into.
Ugh. I’ve been reading back to back tear jerkers you guys, and I was really in my feels with this one 😫.
I can’t wait for book two!!
March 10, 2026
Thank you Hazel and team for giving me my first ever ARC 😭 A Requiem for fallen stars was my favourite book of 2025, so I just knew Dravens novella was going to be a great read. I didn’t quite expect the emotional damage though??
This is the standard I expect from novellas from now on. 300 pages of a well written and fleshed out story, and Hazel absolutely delivered. Getting so much depth and emotion into (by romantasy standards) such a short book is not an easy feat, but Hazel managed this effortlessly, providing so much context and story.
It was great to find out how Draven came to be who he is, and getting to connect with his story more. I absolutely adored this. I’ve been pushing book one onto anyone who’ll listen, now I get to push 2 books 😌
This is the standard I expect from novellas from now on. 300 pages of a well written and fleshed out story, and Hazel absolutely delivered. Getting so much depth and emotion into (by romantasy standards) such a short book is not an easy feat, but Hazel managed this effortlessly, providing so much context and story.
It was great to find out how Draven came to be who he is, and getting to connect with his story more. I absolutely adored this. I’ve been pushing book one onto anyone who’ll listen, now I get to push 2 books 😌
Review of advance copy received from Author
Me: I’m fine. Also me, ten pages in: sobbing into my pillow over fictional trauma.
From the start, I knew I was doomed in the best way... it reminded me instantly why I adore this series. I told myself I was simply getting a bit more insight into Draven’s past, and within minutes I was clutching my Kindle like a woman possessed.
Things I Loved:
🌟 New characters who didn't ask permission to steal my heart... but here we are! They walked in with big personalities and I immediately adopted them. Even the bookshop - the polished bookery basically deserves its own merch line now!
😭 Heartbreak that felt personally targeted. Some scenes really said, “Hope you weren’t planning to be emotionally stable today.” I had to put the book down and stare into the void like I was in a dramatic music video.
🖤 The layers behind Draven’s scars.
Each new reveal hit with emotional force and made me see him in a whole new way. I genuinely just want to wrap him in a blanket and give him a hug.
💬 Writing that goes from soft to soul crushing. One line makes you smile. The next line emotionally body slams you. And somehow it all flows perfectly... the whiplash is real but also delicious!
Much like with book 1, I've gone completely feral with my highlighter - so prepare for lots of beautiful quotes!
"He returned to them tonight, as if summoned. A willing captive to their mysteries and contradictions, both dark and beautiful, shrouded in shadows and twinkling effervescence. Do you see that star, Draven? You are just like it. It does not let the darkness dim its shine— it burns brighter because of it. And you? You burn so brightly, my son. That darkness in your veins is just a backdrop for all your glorious light."
The emotional writing absolutely stood out for me. The story deals with grief, loyalty, survival, and all the messy pieces in between. The heartbreaking scenes truly wrecked me. One second I was reading peacefully, and the next I was staring into space like I had personally lived through the trauma... and wondering if I need a support group… or maybe just some snacks for all my book-related feelings.
"She was air where there had previously only been suffocation. She was light where there had only been darkness. She was the perfect sea kissed breeze. A fluttering warmth in the midst of the deepest winter."
Getting this closer look at Draven felt both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding. Every struggle, every tiny moment that leaves a mark, adds another layer to who he is. The exploration of his scars, both physical and emotional, is so moving that you feel the weight of every wound and every loss. It all makes his resilience feel earned in a way that hits you right in the feels.
I loved the balance between the softer, introspective moments and the brutal realities that shaped Draven’s life. By the end, I felt like I understood him on a completely different level.
“You will have moments where you’ll feel like you ruined everything. You will make mistakes, no matter how painful a thing it is to admit. The key is to find someone who is willing to sit in those shadows with you. Who will forgive you and love you in spite of your flaws. Who will laugh with you. Cry with you. Sip sweet wine in front of a burning hearth while you ramble on about your passions. When you find a person like that, the person who sees the soul behind any and every mask, you never let them go. Ever. Even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like everything is crumbling, you never give up on them. They will just see you, and they will love you for it. When you find a person like that, you never let them go."
This novella took my heart, crushed it, put it back together, gently patted me on the head, and then somehow made me grateful for the emotional damage. It adds so much depth to a world and cast that I already loved.
And now? Now I am SO hyped for book 2. I need to see how all of this backstory crashes into what is coming next. The anticipation has me spiritually vibrating. I'm ready to laugh, cry, swoon, and probably sob into my tea all over again, and I'll do it with zero shame.
Bring it on. I’m ready!
From the start, I knew I was doomed in the best way... it reminded me instantly why I adore this series. I told myself I was simply getting a bit more insight into Draven’s past, and within minutes I was clutching my Kindle like a woman possessed.
Things I Loved:
🌟 New characters who didn't ask permission to steal my heart... but here we are! They walked in with big personalities and I immediately adopted them. Even the bookshop - the polished bookery basically deserves its own merch line now!
😭 Heartbreak that felt personally targeted. Some scenes really said, “Hope you weren’t planning to be emotionally stable today.” I had to put the book down and stare into the void like I was in a dramatic music video.
🖤 The layers behind Draven’s scars.
Each new reveal hit with emotional force and made me see him in a whole new way. I genuinely just want to wrap him in a blanket and give him a hug.
💬 Writing that goes from soft to soul crushing. One line makes you smile. The next line emotionally body slams you. And somehow it all flows perfectly... the whiplash is real but also delicious!
Much like with book 1, I've gone completely feral with my highlighter - so prepare for lots of beautiful quotes!
"He returned to them tonight, as if summoned. A willing captive to their mysteries and contradictions, both dark and beautiful, shrouded in shadows and twinkling effervescence. Do you see that star, Draven? You are just like it. It does not let the darkness dim its shine— it burns brighter because of it. And you? You burn so brightly, my son. That darkness in your veins is just a backdrop for all your glorious light."
The emotional writing absolutely stood out for me. The story deals with grief, loyalty, survival, and all the messy pieces in between. The heartbreaking scenes truly wrecked me. One second I was reading peacefully, and the next I was staring into space like I had personally lived through the trauma... and wondering if I need a support group… or maybe just some snacks for all my book-related feelings.
"She was air where there had previously only been suffocation. She was light where there had only been darkness. She was the perfect sea kissed breeze. A fluttering warmth in the midst of the deepest winter."
Getting this closer look at Draven felt both heartbreaking and incredibly rewarding. Every struggle, every tiny moment that leaves a mark, adds another layer to who he is. The exploration of his scars, both physical and emotional, is so moving that you feel the weight of every wound and every loss. It all makes his resilience feel earned in a way that hits you right in the feels.
I loved the balance between the softer, introspective moments and the brutal realities that shaped Draven’s life. By the end, I felt like I understood him on a completely different level.
“You will have moments where you’ll feel like you ruined everything. You will make mistakes, no matter how painful a thing it is to admit. The key is to find someone who is willing to sit in those shadows with you. Who will forgive you and love you in spite of your flaws. Who will laugh with you. Cry with you. Sip sweet wine in front of a burning hearth while you ramble on about your passions. When you find a person like that, the person who sees the soul behind any and every mask, you never let them go. Ever. Even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like everything is crumbling, you never give up on them. They will just see you, and they will love you for it. When you find a person like that, you never let them go."
This novella took my heart, crushed it, put it back together, gently patted me on the head, and then somehow made me grateful for the emotional damage. It adds so much depth to a world and cast that I already loved.
And now? Now I am SO hyped for book 2. I need to see how all of this backstory crashes into what is coming next. The anticipation has me spiritually vibrating. I'm ready to laugh, cry, swoon, and probably sob into my tea all over again, and I'll do it with zero shame.
Bring it on. I’m ready!
March 8, 2026
Okay, this is how you write a prequel!!
Wow did I need this backstory for Draven. A Composition of Scars shows us the events from when Draven is 14 right up to when we meet Draven in A Requiem for Fallen Stars. It gives us so much context and helps fill in a lot of gaps I had following A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
I still loved that book but I wanted much more depth to Draven and boy did I get it in this prequel 😍 After learning about all he has been through, everything about him just makes much more sense! It’s very easy to see how the tragic events, the betrayal and trauma Draven experienced in this book shaped him into the Draven we met in A Requiem for Fallen Stars. I also now understand his connection with Lyra a lot more and how he fell for her so hard as quick as he did.
The first part of A Composition of Scars shows us the abuse Draven suffers at the hands of his father. It’s heartbreaking to read but then we see the beauty that comes from the love and protection of a mother. The portrayal of the relationship between Draven and his Mother is truly beautiful.
We also see just how strong the bond between Draven, Kiran and Finlay is, their brotherhood is so heartwarming and a lot of this part of the book is heartwarming. We meet some new characters who you will absolutely fall in love with and it becomes a beautiful feel good read. But, you just know that devastation is ahead, so much so that it took me a bit of time before continuing as I just wasn’t ready to be broken!
Once I started part 2, I couldn’t stop. I stayed up until 3am to finish this book!! Part 2 shatters you. This part we see the devastation that comes from power and a father’s hatred. It’s brutal, it’s raw, and will completely break you. Be warned, this is not a HEA story but it will begin to mend you towards the end.
The emotional whiplash this book gives you is phenomenal and the emotional depth conveyed was so impactful. There were some beautiful, heartwarming moments, moments where you get completely swept up in the story, before utter devastation rains down and rips your heart out. The way Hazel writes is just so completely captivating and she makes you feel everything.
I absolutely loved this book, it was everything I hoped it would be and I honestly cannot wait for book 2 😍
Thank you so much to the Author Hazel S. Wilkes for this gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
Wow did I need this backstory for Draven. A Composition of Scars shows us the events from when Draven is 14 right up to when we meet Draven in A Requiem for Fallen Stars. It gives us so much context and helps fill in a lot of gaps I had following A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
I still loved that book but I wanted much more depth to Draven and boy did I get it in this prequel 😍 After learning about all he has been through, everything about him just makes much more sense! It’s very easy to see how the tragic events, the betrayal and trauma Draven experienced in this book shaped him into the Draven we met in A Requiem for Fallen Stars. I also now understand his connection with Lyra a lot more and how he fell for her so hard as quick as he did.
The first part of A Composition of Scars shows us the abuse Draven suffers at the hands of his father. It’s heartbreaking to read but then we see the beauty that comes from the love and protection of a mother. The portrayal of the relationship between Draven and his Mother is truly beautiful.
We also see just how strong the bond between Draven, Kiran and Finlay is, their brotherhood is so heartwarming and a lot of this part of the book is heartwarming. We meet some new characters who you will absolutely fall in love with and it becomes a beautiful feel good read. But, you just know that devastation is ahead, so much so that it took me a bit of time before continuing as I just wasn’t ready to be broken!
Once I started part 2, I couldn’t stop. I stayed up until 3am to finish this book!! Part 2 shatters you. This part we see the devastation that comes from power and a father’s hatred. It’s brutal, it’s raw, and will completely break you. Be warned, this is not a HEA story but it will begin to mend you towards the end.
The emotional whiplash this book gives you is phenomenal and the emotional depth conveyed was so impactful. There were some beautiful, heartwarming moments, moments where you get completely swept up in the story, before utter devastation rains down and rips your heart out. The way Hazel writes is just so completely captivating and she makes you feel everything.
I absolutely loved this book, it was everything I hoped it would be and I honestly cannot wait for book 2 😍
Thank you so much to the Author Hazel S. Wilkes for this gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First off, thank you to the Hazel S. Wilkes for the eARC. I felt very honored for the opportunity to read this.
Instant infinity stars upon finishing this! I love stories that make me feel and this one made me FEEL! It honestly was a bit of a rollercoaster in the best way. It takes talent to invoke such emotion in a short amount of time.
A Composition of Scars follows Draven as a teenager (14). His father, Tynan, is brutal and cruel and never satisfied by Draven’s attempts to live up to his expectations. His mother, on the other hand, is lovely and kind. Draven travels with his mother to Prith where he experiences what it’s like to be part of a functional, caring family - away from Tynan and his court.
This was deep and emotional and in places really beautiful and inspiring too. I felt terrible for Draven for his father’s cruelty and impossible standards. Then I felt such joy for him during the times he was able to feel joy and to experience a loving, caring family. But Tynan is truly a monster who should not be underestimated. By the end of the novella, I was well and truly heartbroken.
“𝑫𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒖𝒏𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕? 𝑶𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆? 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆…𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒊𝒕?”
This novella really explains why Draven is the way he is as the amount of trauma he experienced from such a young age is just unfathomable. But he is so resilient, which is stunning. His introspection was so welcome in the face of all his mystery in A Requiem for Fallen Stars where the cliffhanger was cliffHANGING. Now I understand why he reacted the way he did. It also sheds light on his relationship with his brothers -Finlay and Kiran which was something I was very curious about. Definitely read this and then maybe do a reread of Requiem before June!
Instant infinity stars upon finishing this! I love stories that make me feel and this one made me FEEL! It honestly was a bit of a rollercoaster in the best way. It takes talent to invoke such emotion in a short amount of time.
A Composition of Scars follows Draven as a teenager (14). His father, Tynan, is brutal and cruel and never satisfied by Draven’s attempts to live up to his expectations. His mother, on the other hand, is lovely and kind. Draven travels with his mother to Prith where he experiences what it’s like to be part of a functional, caring family - away from Tynan and his court.
This was deep and emotional and in places really beautiful and inspiring too. I felt terrible for Draven for his father’s cruelty and impossible standards. Then I felt such joy for him during the times he was able to feel joy and to experience a loving, caring family. But Tynan is truly a monster who should not be underestimated. By the end of the novella, I was well and truly heartbroken.
“𝑫𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒆𝒆𝒍 𝒖𝒏𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝒊𝒕? 𝑶𝒇 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆? 𝑳𝒊𝒌𝒆…𝒚𝒐𝒖’𝒍𝒍 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒚 𝒊𝒕?”
This novella really explains why Draven is the way he is as the amount of trauma he experienced from such a young age is just unfathomable. But he is so resilient, which is stunning. His introspection was so welcome in the face of all his mystery in A Requiem for Fallen Stars where the cliffhanger was cliffHANGING. Now I understand why he reacted the way he did. It also sheds light on his relationship with his brothers -Finlay and Kiran which was something I was very curious about. Definitely read this and then maybe do a reread of Requiem before June!
Review of advance copy
First & foremost, if you don’t read books to feel things then this book isn’t for you. But if you do ? Then have a seat & grab some tissues because this book is gonna put you through the wringer.
Hazels writing is so captivating & poetic that she has the power to make you feel everything that her characters are feeling just by reading her words. The amount of tears that I’ve cried while reading this 252 page novella are criminal 🥲
I went into this with so much anticipation because I just knew that there was so much that made Draven the man that he was in A Requiem For Fallen Stars. But when I say that I was TERRIFIED to know his story because I just knew it wasn’t an easy one… I was so right 😓 but it all makes so much sense 😢 my sweet sweet Draven 🖤
Everything about this novella was perfect, no notes. I simply just wish that it was longer because I don’t wanna believe that that’s all I get of these characters until June 🫠 while the events of this book take place years prior to A Requiem, everything was paced & set up so perfectly that I am so ready for book 2 😭🙏🏽 also I highly recommend doing a reread of A Requiem immediately after reading this book for the best experience 😋 which is exactly what I’ll be doing asap, tbr who ? 🤣
Thank you so much to Hazel Wilkes & her team for gifting me with an arc of A Composition Of Scars🤍
ps… @ Mrs Wilkes… please give us 3 more books in this series 🥲 at the least… or you could just write an entirely different fantasy romance series too but make it like a 4 book series, that works too… essentially what I’m trying to say is keep the masterpieces coming queen 😂🙏🏽⭐️
Hazels writing is so captivating & poetic that she has the power to make you feel everything that her characters are feeling just by reading her words. The amount of tears that I’ve cried while reading this 252 page novella are criminal 🥲
I went into this with so much anticipation because I just knew that there was so much that made Draven the man that he was in A Requiem For Fallen Stars. But when I say that I was TERRIFIED to know his story because I just knew it wasn’t an easy one… I was so right 😓 but it all makes so much sense 😢 my sweet sweet Draven 🖤
Everything about this novella was perfect, no notes. I simply just wish that it was longer because I don’t wanna believe that that’s all I get of these characters until June 🫠 while the events of this book take place years prior to A Requiem, everything was paced & set up so perfectly that I am so ready for book 2 😭🙏🏽 also I highly recommend doing a reread of A Requiem immediately after reading this book for the best experience 😋 which is exactly what I’ll be doing asap, tbr who ? 🤣
Thank you so much to Hazel Wilkes & her team for gifting me with an arc of A Composition Of Scars🤍
ps… @ Mrs Wilkes… please give us 3 more books in this series 🥲 at the least… or you could just write an entirely different fantasy romance series too but make it like a 4 book series, that works too… essentially what I’m trying to say is keep the masterpieces coming queen 😂🙏🏽⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
How much abuse can one 14 year old take? Draven is tormented both physically and mentally by his father until his mother takes him away.
In Prith, Draven finds he can breathe easier without the court politics and his father constantly breathing down his neck, telling him how worthless and weak he is. When he meets Atlas, Rhea, and Suzumi- he learns something else. That people can care about you, you as a person, without wanting something in return.
But love is a weakness in Draven’s Fathers eyes. A weakness that needs to be stamped out completely. When he catches wind that his wife and heir are living a separate life, he sets out to rectify that immediately.
What follows is so gut wrenching and heartbreaking that it physically hurts to read. The complete breaking of a little boy who just wanted to be loved.
I loved the backstory of how Draven become who he is and how he made himself the promise that he could be his father’s monster, but he could come back to himself and share his true self with only the ones he loved. That maybe one day, he would be worthy of love.
I also loved how intertwined his and Lyra’s story is. That final sentence in the book gave me goosebumps.
“Ruin myself,” he muttered. “What is there left to ruin? I myself am the ruin, Rhea. I know you are privy to all the rumors, even in Tylderon. I know you know what they say about me; all that I’ve done. To ruin myself would be to imply there is still some substance left to destroy.”
Thank you so much Hazel for the ARC!! I loved it and can’t wait to read more of Draven and Lyra’s story.
In Prith, Draven finds he can breathe easier without the court politics and his father constantly breathing down his neck, telling him how worthless and weak he is. When he meets Atlas, Rhea, and Suzumi- he learns something else. That people can care about you, you as a person, without wanting something in return.
But love is a weakness in Draven’s Fathers eyes. A weakness that needs to be stamped out completely. When he catches wind that his wife and heir are living a separate life, he sets out to rectify that immediately.
What follows is so gut wrenching and heartbreaking that it physically hurts to read. The complete breaking of a little boy who just wanted to be loved.
I loved the backstory of how Draven become who he is and how he made himself the promise that he could be his father’s monster, but he could come back to himself and share his true self with only the ones he loved. That maybe one day, he would be worthy of love.
I also loved how intertwined his and Lyra’s story is. That final sentence in the book gave me goosebumps.
“Ruin myself,” he muttered. “What is there left to ruin? I myself am the ruin, Rhea. I know you are privy to all the rumors, even in Tylderon. I know you know what they say about me; all that I’ve done. To ruin myself would be to imply there is still some substance left to destroy.”
Thank you so much Hazel for the ARC!! I loved it and can’t wait to read more of Draven and Lyra’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I need to start this review by stating that I LOVED Requiem For Fallen Stars so very much. Hazel’s writing is just stunning and I was obsessed with her first book.
In A Composition of Scars, I was crying by the fourth chapter, heartbroken by a 14 year old Draven dealing with horrific abuse from his father.
This prequel novella is a beautiful exploration of Draven’s childhood trauma, his relationship with his mother, and with his own powers and “darkness “. I cried 15 times and sought stock options in a tissue company.
“How rare of a sight it was, to see someone smiling with their full soul.”
“I believe behind every great man, there was an even greater woman. And I do not define greatness by acts of opportunity or accomplishments. I define it by the resolve of one’s heart and their moral constitution. You…” She had made a show of eyeing Draven. “You have the potential to be great, if you allow yourself to be.”
I am such a sucker for a well written found family, and this novella had it in emotional spades. Draven’s father is just evil. The emotional torment that the bulk of these characters has to navigate, I’m heartbroken.
How can I be so in love with a fictional bookstore?!!
Five stars. No notes. Just perfection.
“We are at once deserving and undeserving of love, and I believe we have our mortal souls to thank for that.”
I am BEYOND excited for what happens next for Draven and Lyra.
Thank you to Hazel Wilkes for allowing me to read and review this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s not often books have me shedding actual tears, but getting this back story for Draven and seeing what he had to overcome and the people he lost along the way was devastating.
In this book you follow his story as he goes from spending time with his “brothers” training and trying to live up to their fathers expectations, to leaving briefly with his mom and realizing there could be a life for him with real happiness out from under his fathers thumb. Getting more of Rheas backstory and how they met as well as the people around them that brought them together helped show where they get their personalities and how Draven came to have the temperament and fear of becoming his father.
This book had me riding the highs of his past and the lows of his devastating losses and I wanted to reach into the page and shake him and tell him he’s not a monster and not anything like his father and also beat his dad up! The rollercoaster of emotions in this book had me feel even more for him as a character and I also really enjoyed the introduction of Lyra to his world and how it ended as the original book started! I cannot wait to see what’s next for this series with this additional background on our MMC! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
In this book you follow his story as he goes from spending time with his “brothers” training and trying to live up to their fathers expectations, to leaving briefly with his mom and realizing there could be a life for him with real happiness out from under his fathers thumb. Getting more of Rheas backstory and how they met as well as the people around them that brought them together helped show where they get their personalities and how Draven came to have the temperament and fear of becoming his father.
This book had me riding the highs of his past and the lows of his devastating losses and I wanted to reach into the page and shake him and tell him he’s not a monster and not anything like his father and also beat his dad up! The rollercoaster of emotions in this book had me feel even more for him as a character and I also really enjoyed the introduction of Lyra to his world and how it ended as the original book started! I cannot wait to see what’s next for this series with this additional background on our MMC! Overall my rating 4.8/5!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy, all opinions given are my own!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much Hazel Wilkes for an eARC of this novella! I was absolutely obsessed with A Requiem for Fallen Stars and I was so stoked to be able to read this one early too!
How do I even describe this book? This book ripped out my heart, stomped on it, and shoved it back in my chest.
I knew how this book would end, we know who Draven is when we meet him in book one, so we know something terrible had to have happened to him to make him who he is. But oh my stars I was not expecting it to hurt this bad. This book had so much love and heart in it and that's what hurts the most when it gets torn away.
This book delved into Draven's younger years, and his relationship with his mother and (awful) father. It has huge elements of found family and sweet little moments. SO many tears were shed for Draven and his situation. I cried basically for the last 25% of this book.
Despite the tears and hurt, this is such an amazing book. Hazel's writing is beautiful and so immersive. A Requiem for Fallen Stars was one of my favourite books of last year, and I cannot wait to jump into the second book later this year!
If you haven't read her books, what are you even doing?
Amazing, no notes. 5/5 stars!
How do I even describe this book? This book ripped out my heart, stomped on it, and shoved it back in my chest.
I knew how this book would end, we know who Draven is when we meet him in book one, so we know something terrible had to have happened to him to make him who he is. But oh my stars I was not expecting it to hurt this bad. This book had so much love and heart in it and that's what hurts the most when it gets torn away.
This book delved into Draven's younger years, and his relationship with his mother and (awful) father. It has huge elements of found family and sweet little moments. SO many tears were shed for Draven and his situation. I cried basically for the last 25% of this book.
Despite the tears and hurt, this is such an amazing book. Hazel's writing is beautiful and so immersive. A Requiem for Fallen Stars was one of my favourite books of last year, and I cannot wait to jump into the second book later this year!
If you haven't read her books, what are you even doing?
Amazing, no notes. 5/5 stars!
March 8, 2026
A Composition of Scars by indie author Hazel S. Wilkes is book 1.5 in the Cadence of the Fallen series and I’m standing up, clapping, and shouting “this is how you do a novella”! Because, wow. This is a 10/10 prequel novella that offers critical answers & profound perspective to better understand our MMC, Draven.
As always — Hazel’s writing is lyrical, poignant and intentional. I knew pain was inevitable when I got to Part II titled “The Form Of An Irreparable Wound”. And of course, Hazel delivered.
This was the perfect novella to pull readers back into this world. My heart aches for Draven and I’m desperate to jump back into the present and continue the story. I can hardly wait for book two, A Ballad For The Broken, which is slated to be released on June 9th!
This is easily one of my favorite series. I highly recommend fans of epic high fantasy romance read this series as fast as they can get their hands on it, which reminds me that book one, A Requiem For Fallen Stars, is available on KU! *hint hint*
As always — Hazel’s writing is lyrical, poignant and intentional. I knew pain was inevitable when I got to Part II titled “The Form Of An Irreparable Wound”. And of course, Hazel delivered.
This was the perfect novella to pull readers back into this world. My heart aches for Draven and I’m desperate to jump back into the present and continue the story. I can hardly wait for book two, A Ballad For The Broken, which is slated to be released on June 9th!
This is easily one of my favorite series. I highly recommend fans of epic high fantasy romance read this series as fast as they can get their hands on it, which reminds me that book one, A Requiem For Fallen Stars, is available on KU! *hint hint*
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bravo & well done! I absolutely loved it! 5 ⭐️’s
What an emotionally evoking story! Beautifully written & I honestly loved it more than book one. And I’m definitely looking forward to book two with what I’ve learned 💕
This story brings so much depth to Draven’s character. Learning what made him into the man we see in A Requiem For Fallen Stars (book one).
My heart 💔 still kind of hurts along with Draven’s.
A hidden/tragic love story as well & an honorable man, one, us ladies would swoon over. I don’t want to give any spoilers but I just have to share one of my favorite quotes from said man to Draven.
“When you find a person like that—the person who sees the soul behind any and every mask—you never let them go. Ever. Even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like everything is crumbling—you never give up on them.”
I want to go back and reread the first book now with this new knowledge. And most definitely before book two!
*** Thank you Hazel S. Wilkes for the opportunity to read & review this ARC! I am voluntarily leaving this honest review. ***
What an emotionally evoking story! Beautifully written & I honestly loved it more than book one. And I’m definitely looking forward to book two with what I’ve learned 💕
This story brings so much depth to Draven’s character. Learning what made him into the man we see in A Requiem For Fallen Stars (book one).
My heart 💔 still kind of hurts along with Draven’s.
A hidden/tragic love story as well & an honorable man, one, us ladies would swoon over. I don’t want to give any spoilers but I just have to share one of my favorite quotes from said man to Draven.
“When you find a person like that—the person who sees the soul behind any and every mask—you never let them go. Ever. Even when it’s hard. Even when it feels like everything is crumbling—you never give up on them.”
I want to go back and reread the first book now with this new knowledge. And most definitely before book two!
*** Thank you Hazel S. Wilkes for the opportunity to read & review this ARC! I am voluntarily leaving this honest review. ***
Review of advance copy received from Author
I cannot thank the author Hazel Wilkes and her team enough for gifting me an eARC of this novella. I devoured A Requiem for Fallen Stars and was giddy about this prequel novella focusing on the MMC.
This book was amazing. It provided a rich and heartbreaking background of Requiem's Draven (I now want to reread a Requiem to see what I missed the first time).
Draven is 14 and struggles with the weight of his father's expectations and his own desire to not be consumed by darkness. His mother is his North Star and it's her approval he cherishes. Falling in love for the first time changes him. What comes after sharpens him.
This book was a great introduction to the main Requiem characters. I highly recommend reading it because it will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for Draven. It is not a romance but do take care and check trigger warnings. I'm excited to see what's in store for the crew in book 2!!
This book was amazing. It provided a rich and heartbreaking background of Requiem's Draven (I now want to reread a Requiem to see what I missed the first time).
Draven is 14 and struggles with the weight of his father's expectations and his own desire to not be consumed by darkness. His mother is his North Star and it's her approval he cherishes. Falling in love for the first time changes him. What comes after sharpens him.
This book was a great introduction to the main Requiem characters. I highly recommend reading it because it will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for Draven. It is not a romance but do take care and check trigger warnings. I'm excited to see what's in store for the crew in book 2!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this. I was able to read this early with an advanced reader copy and I am so glad! I just recently stumbled up a Requiem for Fallen stars and devoured that book. The story was left on a cliff hanger so being able to get an advanced copy of this novella gave me a nice fix until book 2 comes out. This novella had me wanting to keep reading as everything was being tied together with the first book. Between discovering the dynamic of the 3 brothers, how Lyra and him had crossed paths prior to meeting in foreigners valley, and getting all the details on his and Tyran’s relationship, it definitely answered a lot of questions that book 1 left me with. My heart broke for Draven and the character development in this was phenomenal. You can fully understand all the hardships that crafted him into the man he became. Such a beautifully written book and I cannot wait for the second novel to come out this year!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
While it was a while ago since I read A Requiem of Fallen Stars, reading this novella immediately transported me back to this fantastic and cruel world.
We meet some familiar characters through Draven's perspective as we follow him growing up. His relationship with his mother is truly admirable and heartwarming, making it even more emotionally devastating when 'certain things' happen.
This story made me feel all the emotions, IT BROKE ME. When you think, you get glimpses of hope and laughter, BOOM, subsequent brutality. The writing was so captivating, as if the emotions bled through the lines.
It builds an exciting tension, and afterwards, you'll likely feel the same as Draven: empty and void of a sense of self. However, one can't escape the past, and one particular fierce lilac-haired girl sets bigger things in motion than she ever could imagine.
Thank you, Hazel S. Wilkes, for the e-ARC.
We meet some familiar characters through Draven's perspective as we follow him growing up. His relationship with his mother is truly admirable and heartwarming, making it even more emotionally devastating when 'certain things' happen.
This story made me feel all the emotions, IT BROKE ME. When you think, you get glimpses of hope and laughter, BOOM, subsequent brutality. The writing was so captivating, as if the emotions bled through the lines.
It builds an exciting tension, and afterwards, you'll likely feel the same as Draven: empty and void of a sense of self. However, one can't escape the past, and one particular fierce lilac-haired girl sets bigger things in motion than she ever could imagine.
Thank you, Hazel S. Wilkes, for the e-ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you, Hazel S. Wilkes, for the eARC of A Composition of Scars. I’m truly honoured to have had the opportunity to read such a beautiful and emotional novella.
This story offers a compelling glimpse into Draven’s past, exploring the moments and experiences that shaped him into the person he is today. Seeing the depth of his character through these memories added so much meaning to his journey.
One of my favourite aspects was the loving and heartfelt relationship he shared with his mother. Those moments were incredibly touching and really highlighted the warmth and support she gave him. In stark contrast, the hatred and tension surrounding his father added a powerful emotional layer that made Draven’s story even more impactful.
It’s a short read, but it carries a lot of emotion and depth. I found myself completely absorbed in Draven’s past and the events that molded him.
Such an emotional and engaging novella—I cannot wait for book 2!
This story offers a compelling glimpse into Draven’s past, exploring the moments and experiences that shaped him into the person he is today. Seeing the depth of his character through these memories added so much meaning to his journey.
One of my favourite aspects was the loving and heartfelt relationship he shared with his mother. Those moments were incredibly touching and really highlighted the warmth and support she gave him. In stark contrast, the hatred and tension surrounding his father added a powerful emotional layer that made Draven’s story even more impactful.
It’s a short read, but it carries a lot of emotion and depth. I found myself completely absorbed in Draven’s past and the events that molded him.
Such an emotional and engaging novella—I cannot wait for book 2!
March 7, 2026
I had the absolute privilege of reading an ARC of A Composition of Scars — and it was nothing short of breathtaking. 🌙
Hazel S. Wilkes weaves a story that hums with quiet ache and fierce hope. Draven’s journey toward self‑discovery feels both intimate and epic — a testament to how deeply our scars can shape us and, ultimately, set us free. His search to become worthy isn’t just a storyline… it’s a mirror held up to anyone who’s ever wrestled with their own shadow. ✨
And Lealla — oh, Lealla. The raw grace, strength, and sacrifice of motherhood are etched into every chapter she touches. Her love is both anchor and flame, and it moved me in ways I didn’t expect. 💔🔥
This book isn’t merely a backstory — it’s a soul story. One that deepens Draven’s world while reminding us that from pain, beauty often blooms. I closed the last page feeling full, wrecked, and desperate for what comes next. 🌹📖
Hazel S. Wilkes weaves a story that hums with quiet ache and fierce hope. Draven’s journey toward self‑discovery feels both intimate and epic — a testament to how deeply our scars can shape us and, ultimately, set us free. His search to become worthy isn’t just a storyline… it’s a mirror held up to anyone who’s ever wrestled with their own shadow. ✨
And Lealla — oh, Lealla. The raw grace, strength, and sacrifice of motherhood are etched into every chapter she touches. Her love is both anchor and flame, and it moved me in ways I didn’t expect. 💔🔥
This book isn’t merely a backstory — it’s a soul story. One that deepens Draven’s world while reminding us that from pain, beauty often blooms. I closed the last page feeling full, wrecked, and desperate for what comes next. 🌹📖
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, a huge thanks to Hazel for allowing me to read an arc of this. I am so honored to be able to read this early and leave a review.
As it was mentioned, this is not a happy story, but it was a necessary one. Being able to experience Draven’s backstory and how he became the person he is was so valuable. I loved being in his POV, getting to experience how his mind works, and getting to be back in this word for a little while. I loved the themes behind motherhood and sacrifice, and the power of love. Love truly does conquer all, and this novella captures that so beautifully.
I really enjoyed getting to go back in time and see how everything fits together, and Hazel wove all of the elements of the story so beautifully. I also really enjoyed getting to see Draven’s brothers in a different light and the found family element.
Such a great read! Can’t wait for everyone to experience the next installment in this world!
As it was mentioned, this is not a happy story, but it was a necessary one. Being able to experience Draven’s backstory and how he became the person he is was so valuable. I loved being in his POV, getting to experience how his mind works, and getting to be back in this word for a little while. I loved the themes behind motherhood and sacrifice, and the power of love. Love truly does conquer all, and this novella captures that so beautifully.
I really enjoyed getting to go back in time and see how everything fits together, and Hazel wove all of the elements of the story so beautifully. I also really enjoyed getting to see Draven’s brothers in a different light and the found family element.
Such a great read! Can’t wait for everyone to experience the next installment in this world!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC.
Wow. That read was incredibly tragic. I need a moment to pull myself together.
This was dark and heartbreaking. I loved getting to see this side of Draven and unveiling the backstory of Kiran, Finley, and Draven. Hazel S. Wilkes takes such time and care to develop Draven's backstory that it truly hurts reading about his past and the trauma he's survived. We get a great feel for the relationship between these three "captains," and the mysteries alluded to throughout the first book are revealed. There is so much loss shown in Draven's life that it really emphasizes how much he's grown and changed by the time we meet him in the first book. I love the glimpses we get of Lyra and reading it from Draven's point of view.
This novella makes you hate the bad guys all the more and root all the harder for our main characters.
Wow. That read was incredibly tragic. I need a moment to pull myself together.
This was dark and heartbreaking. I loved getting to see this side of Draven and unveiling the backstory of Kiran, Finley, and Draven. Hazel S. Wilkes takes such time and care to develop Draven's backstory that it truly hurts reading about his past and the trauma he's survived. We get a great feel for the relationship between these three "captains," and the mysteries alluded to throughout the first book are revealed. There is so much loss shown in Draven's life that it really emphasizes how much he's grown and changed by the time we meet him in the first book. I love the glimpses we get of Lyra and reading it from Draven's point of view.
This novella makes you hate the bad guys all the more and root all the harder for our main characters.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Six stars.
Are. You. Kidding. Me. I’m going to need several days to recover from this. If this series doesn’t absolutely blow up I will riot.
I knew A Composition of Scars would be heartbreaking and I knew that it would give us a glimpse into Draven’s past. What I didn’t expect was the level of added depth it would bring to so much of A Requiem for Fallen Stars. There are so many scenes to re-read with new (and tear-filled) eyes.
I don’t even want to touch on any of the plot (which was excellent) or the new characters (who are so lovingly and tenderly written) as I recommend going into this one blind. And with some tissues.
100/10. Wow. Off to ignore my TBR and re-read A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
Thank you to Hazel S Wilkes for the ARC and the trauma!!
Six stars.
Are. You. Kidding. Me. I’m going to need several days to recover from this. If this series doesn’t absolutely blow up I will riot.
I knew A Composition of Scars would be heartbreaking and I knew that it would give us a glimpse into Draven’s past. What I didn’t expect was the level of added depth it would bring to so much of A Requiem for Fallen Stars. There are so many scenes to re-read with new (and tear-filled) eyes.
I don’t even want to touch on any of the plot (which was excellent) or the new characters (who are so lovingly and tenderly written) as I recommend going into this one blind. And with some tissues.
100/10. Wow. Off to ignore my TBR and re-read A Requiem for Fallen Stars.
Thank you to Hazel S Wilkes for the ARC and the trauma!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The backstory I never knew I needed until I had it!
I just thought I loved Draven before…. Now that I understand why he is the way he is… I’m done!
I absolutely loved getting some insight on different things from book 1 whether it was another pov or if it was a behind the scenes type of situation! It made me connect even more to the first book and the characters!
Book 1.5 follows Draven, from the time he was a young boy to the man we see him as in Book 1. We get to know him before the scars, we get to see the wounds being made that make up the scars, and we get to see him embrace those scars.
This book is absolutely beautiful and heart wrenching!
This series should be at the top of everyone’s list!!!
I just thought I loved Draven before…. Now that I understand why he is the way he is… I’m done!
I absolutely loved getting some insight on different things from book 1 whether it was another pov or if it was a behind the scenes type of situation! It made me connect even more to the first book and the characters!
Book 1.5 follows Draven, from the time he was a young boy to the man we see him as in Book 1. We get to know him before the scars, we get to see the wounds being made that make up the scars, and we get to see him embrace those scars.
This book is absolutely beautiful and heart wrenching!
This series should be at the top of everyone’s list!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
oh… Draven.
This novella was PERFECT. It will have you understanding so much more about what makes up Draven’s character, why he behaves and moves the way he does. We get invaluable insight into his childhood upbringing and reading this after A Reqieum of Fallen stars was perfect.
I LOVE that moment when you read a book, things start to click and you see how the author has woven pieces of the story together. A Composition of Scars is BRILLIANT in that way and so much more.
I understand the character dynamics to this world so much more now and cannot wait for Book 2 to come out later this year.
This novella was PERFECT. It will have you understanding so much more about what makes up Draven’s character, why he behaves and moves the way he does. We get invaluable insight into his childhood upbringing and reading this after A Reqieum of Fallen stars was perfect.
I LOVE that moment when you read a book, things start to click and you see how the author has woven pieces of the story together. A Composition of Scars is BRILLIANT in that way and so much more.
I understand the character dynamics to this world so much more now and cannot wait for Book 2 to come out later this year.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I know sometimes when we finish book one and we think to ourselves “what a phenomenal read” we unconsciously prepare for their second book to be less than the first. However, with Hazel’s second (but technically 1.5) in the series, the book is equally as soul crushing as the first. I was completely captivated by her writing and had my soul split into shards while coming to terms with Draven’s upbringing. This novel allows the reader to further understand who Draven is to his core, and therefore understand the first book better.
Ultimately, I adore this novella and am so excited to see what else Hazel will bring to her readers!
Ultimately, I adore this novella and am so excited to see what else Hazel will bring to her readers!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews