Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
Twins raised far from the darkness are the key to Gaai's salvation.

Turning eighteen is the highlight of every teenager's life. Or at least it is for Wendy and her twin sister DeeDee. When their adoptive parents gift them with medallions belonging to their late mother, they have no idea their lives are about to change.

Their happy day takes a deadly turn when Wendy is lured into the forest surrounding their home by a deceitful voice. Saved by an alluring, green-eyed stranger, questions are brought to light that she may not want the answers to.

The girls are descendants of Gaai, a land of ancient magic. Once peaceful and thriving, is now enslaved by a powerful enemy. Though Wendy and DeeDee were sent to Earth to be raised far from the darkness that shrouds their home world, they must now return to unite their people.

334 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 23, 2018

41 people are currently reading
290 people want to read

About the author

Lela Grayce

32 books121 followers

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
65 (63%)
4 stars
22 (21%)
3 stars
7 (6%)
2 stars
5 (4%)
1 star
3 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
Profile Image for Nikki.
242 reviews27 followers
April 10, 2018
“Courage cannot exist without fear.”

Such a great start to a new series with a new author!

For some reason, the first few chapters were a little slow for me, but I’ve heard a lot of people were hooked right away. I felt some parts were also a little wordy or maybe too descriptive. I had to stop myself from trying to skim because of it. However, once it got past that initial introduction, it hooked me and didn’t let go!

I’m the kind of person that likes more of the slow-burn romances, but the author did such a great job of eliciting the passion in the new relationships, that it still made it believable and you could feel it through the pages. Plus you just can’t help but to be drawn to Mathias right along with Wendy.

DeeDee’s romantic interest was a little more down my alley of what I enjoy so that was fun to watch develop and feel that internal struggling. I was actually so happy when it switched to her perspective. It was like different romance preferences were met just by doing that, which I thought was just brilliant! I was still hoping for a bit more of a build up with it, but once again, just a personal preference and not everyone’s.

I was really looking forward to them learning how to use their powers, but was a little disappointed that it went by so quickly. Once again, personal preference talking here and it in no way affected the enchantment of the story.

Although I thought the ending was interesting and yet heartbreaking at the same time. I am intrigued as to where the sequel is going to go!
Profile Image for Ruth E. Diaz.
23 reviews
May 8, 2018
I loved this book. Lela took me to a world I didn't expect. Her creativity is outstanding. What an amazing, magic and original story full of twist and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. Can't wait to read what Lela have in her next book for all of us. Wish I could read the second book right away. I can't wait until then.
Profile Image for E.A..
952 reviews27 followers
April 24, 2018
I seem to be having a great time this year with books. One after another I am finding unique gems that capture my attention for hours. This book not only did that, but ripped out my heart while doing so. Sometimes I think authors just sit back and think, what a wonderful, sweet ending...-sips coffee, while stroking fluffy cat, eyes light up with joy-... MUST DESTORY IT....

One ward, just let me pick up my broken feels.

Okay, lets get down to sometimes that I wasn't to found of, the pacing at the start was a little slow, normally for these types of books I like the in your face, approach. Now it wasn't bad writing, it was witty and fun, it just felt like it took a bit to long to get to the really good stuff.

Love interest..... I'm more of a, let-it-grow, type of girl. Now there are times I like a good insta-love, more so in adult fiction, I just fine it takes away from the over all plot when they are done in YA. Again not saying it was all bad. It did fell forced, or unnatural. Just a little to rushed for my person taste.

Now onto the things I loved... which was everything else. The story, the magical world building, the sinister undertones, the witty banter, and most of all I loved the two MC's. They do a POV switch, and damn, getting everything from a different POV right when least expected, drove this story over the edge and made this into one of the best books I've read this year.

I highly recommend you gets you hand on the on-of-a-kind books,

Happy Reading

-E.A. Walsh
Profile Image for Renée.
873 reviews135 followers
September 16, 2018
On their 18th birthday, twins Wednesday aka Wendy and December aka DeeDee are given packages from their parents by their adoptive parents. The package contains a medallion for each girl which has been passed down through their family, which aren’t the only surprises. Their best friends Ryker and Layne are at their party. However at the end of the night Wendy will take a path that will lead her journey that will change their lives forever.
Profile Image for Jo  Lawless.
93 reviews47 followers
April 25, 2018
New author Lela Grayce has pulled me into a world that I'm going to keep coming back to. Action, adventure, suspense, humor, sass....and butterflies. Oh, so many butterflies.

No, not the animal. Although, you will find many a winged creature between the pages. But I mean the wing flapping going on inside your tummy as the romance of the story unfolds. This writer can ratchet up your inner teenager like no body's business. Swoon break anyone?

She's impressed me and that's not so easy to do. Just ask anyone that knows me. From her world building to her character development. She's made me want to be a princess again. Made me want to soar through the sky. But know what I want most? Mathias. No. Josiah. NO! Thomas! Oh, man....how do I choose? I'll keep trying as I wait for the sequel which I'm definitely grabbing. Let me know how your selection goes.
Profile Image for Steven Smithen.
Author 7 books103 followers
April 24, 2018
Fantastic Debut Novel!

What a different and unique story for a debut author. This story centers around one set of twins, Wendy and DeeDee who find out on the day of their 18th birthday that they are from another world, Gaai and that they are part of a group of descendants, 3 more sets of twins including their best friends Layne and Ryker.
Aerion follows as Wendy and DeeDee come to terms with who tjey are and what is expected from them to include the intense attraction to Mathias and Josiah.
This story is well written and Lela's imagination is amazing as she introduces us to this new world and an unusual selection of characters. If you are looking for something new and fresh then you definitely need to pick this book up. Aerion is a wonderful first novel. I can't wait to see what she comes up with in the next book.
22 reviews
May 31, 2025
I got this book because Amazon sent me an email advertising it. It had a pretty cover and it sounded good, so why not?

While I did enjoy the story quite a lot there were still things that bothered me. The biggest issue was the dialogue. It was often silly banter and sometimes completely out of place. After the first attack on Wendy, DeeDee, Layne, Wendy and Ryker are talking in the backyard.. no bantering in the backyard and it completely destroyed the mood of the scene. A scary creature has just attacked one of the girls, they're supposed to be afraid, confused etc but their banter is silly and makes it feel like it doesn't bother them at all. It really did ruin the scene and atmosphere completely. While the dialogue was a lot better sometimes, the banter was still there every now and then and each time it was irritating. I wish authors would stop writing dialogue like that when it's not needed. There were couple instances where the banter ruined the mood of the scene and was just in a wrong place.

The POV changed in the middle. First it was Wendy telling the story, next it was DeeDee. I'm not quite sure why the change. First of all, it felt like it was the same character although DeeDee was more of an smartass which I didn't like, and second, because of that the story was repeating itself. First we read about Wendy and Mathias and a bit later same things happen with DeeDee and J (sorry, I forgot his name). I'm not a huge fan of instant love and it more or less happened here. Also Mathias is kind of an ass, very jealous and possessive. It's not good, it's not attractive or sexy. I hope Wendy finds someone else who treats her properly.

Some parts of the story were a bit longer than they should have, compared to other parts. Meaning, the beginning took ages compared to their time with their cousin when they were training. I wasn't bored at all though, but some parts were quite rushed. I would have liked to read more about their time in the Fae place (again I forgot the name, so sorry).

There were some confusing parts too. Like when we first Kaul, I had no idea who he was. They clearly knew him but it wasn't explained why they knew him. I just assumed he was the guardian of their best friends. Which was correct. But I wish it would have been said who he is.

The ending was confusing. People are gathered on one place and the girls are introduced as future queens. They get rid of the demons inside random people. DeeDee.. no sorry, Ari, keeps talking to her guardians and friends, like they would be right next to her. I thought they weren't. Again, the dialogue here wasn't that good, quite clumsy actually. And I feel the ending was the most rushed part of the story. Everything happened so quick. And suddenly someone is dying and DeeDee feels pressure again. Why?

I'm not sure if it's a good idea to change their names during the story. It can be quite confusing, especially as during that part several new characters are also introduced.

Oh and what really bugged me in the beginning was that they were said to be identical twins, yet they looked different. Different hair colour, different eye colour. If they had to look different from each other, why not to make them twins instead? Simple as that. Identical twins do look the same. They don't have different eye colours or hair colours. Yes, maybe it was because of magic, it wasn't explained. But I think it would have been better for them to be just normal twins.

So, to say it shortly. I did enjoy the story, it was interesting. I didn't enjoy the banter and dialogue. Some parts were rushed compared to other scenes.

Will I read more of the series? Maybe. Not quite sure. I'm curious to know how the story continues, but not sure if I want to read that banter again. It's not fun. It's irritating. Although I do understand that some people enjoy that. I'm not one of them. But yes, the story was promising. I guess I'll check the next book and if the story still keeps me interested, I'm sticking with the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kriz.
124 reviews19 followers
August 24, 2018
➡"Courage Cannot Exist Without Fear" ❤

I Went Into This Story Completely Blind Which Is Honestly How I Prefer To Read Now A Days. I Literally Started It Yesterday Afternoon And Finished It An Hour Ago. That's How Entertained I Was By It, I Didn't Even Look At The Clock Once!! This Is A GREAT Debut Novel.

➡ "The Moon Is Calling. Trust The Darkness As If It Were The Light. Embrace Fear And It Will Lead You Home". (Excerpt From Chapter 1)

YES I Will Be Quoting Some Stuff I LOVED From The Book. Y'all Know How Much I Love My Quotes ❤❤😌 First Off I LOVE How Miss Grayce Wrote The Story From Different Point Of Views Yet They're Different Enough Not To Confuse You On Who's Walking You Through The Book While The Story Progresses. It Didn't Matter Who Was The MC It Was All Filled With Awesome Descriptions Of Gaii And It Brought The World Alive In A Beautiful Way.

➡"Truth Belongs To Those With Pure Souls And Hearts". (Excerpt From Chapter 7).

SO For Sure The World Building Through The Story Is Probably My Favorite Thing About The Book, Plus The Writing Style Is Super Engaging And Unique. She Did An Amazing Job Creating A Magical World Filled With Loyalty, Adventure, Excitement And Intrigue.

➡Note To Self: No One On This World Understands Earth References. (Excerpt From Chapter 20).

If You Enjoy Sarah J Maas Previous Work Then I Definitely Think Y'all Would Like This One. The Bad Thing About It Is That It Ended Too Soon And I Have To Wait For Book 2 And I'm Not Very Sure I Can Forgive Her The Cliffhanger 😭😭

Areion Was Released On April 24, 2018. Get Your Copy On Amazon:: https://www.amazon.com/Areion-Lunar-M...
Profile Image for Tracey Lynch.
49 reviews
April 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. I loved reading about the background of DeeDee and Wendy and the growth in the characters especially when Thomas becomes involved. I don’t know if I would have been so accepting of the changes though and would have probably fought against it. There was the beginning of relationships growing with maithas and Joshua and I would have liked to have known more about them and their backgrounds. Interesting to see where the relationships go and hoping this is in book 2. The only bit which I felt was too quick was when they separated from the campsite and Thomas was quickly introduced. I got a little lost re Thomas and had to reread it. There was a gap in terms of what happened to family Nd friends in the campsite after the girls were taken which could have been added to ie getting home and how they dealt with the loss before moving back to the twins. All in all really enjoyed the book and can’t wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Jackie.
2,554 reviews
May 16, 2018
4 & 1/2 stars rounded up.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader's copy of this book provided by the author.
This was an entertaining & unique story. I like the main characters, twin sisters December & Wednesday. They are quirky, fun & smart. The story held my attention & kept me up too late reading. This book did start a bit slower than I would like, but kept picking up steam as it went. The world building for the new world they are thrust into is developed in the plot as the sisters learn it themselves. The supposed love interests (not positive that they will stay love interests as the story progresses), Mathias & Josiah, were interesting, but I didn’t care for the insta-relationship that developed between them & the sisters. I much prefer the slow simmering build up for relationships, especially for Y/A or N/A type stories. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see where this goes.
Profile Image for K.A. Morse.
Author 19 books34 followers
April 26, 2018
This is an awesome 1st book. I couldn’t put it down. I love how she wrote it from different points of view. You start with Wendy and end in Dee Dee’s. I also love how the twin look the same but are different at the same. (Being a twin it’s nice to have something of your own) After their birthday a strange creature tries to attack Wendy but a mysterious man comes out of nowhere and saves her. She finds out he’s a twin too and they have the same differences her and her sister do. She has a strange connection to Mathias. Once back home Wendy and Dee Dee find out that they aren’t from Earth. Neither are their best friends Layne and Ryker. And the mysterious stranger Mathias and his twin Josiah. They travel to Gaai to help find peace to the lands and stop the war. I love how Lela wrote this and you will too!
Profile Image for Joy Olivier.
Author 2 books24 followers
March 24, 2018
Areion is one of those books that will completely transport you and suck you in. Slowly teasing the reader along, Areion has a ton of information, yet the author doesn’t disclose it until the perfect moment to cause the most emotional response possible.

Each character has their own unique “voice” and it is always easy to tell who is speaking, simply by that fact alone! With a wide cast of varied characters, that is not an easy feat to accomplish.

The style of writing is completely unique and utterly engaging. I was at the edge of my seat, needing to know what happens. I absolutely loved the choices and direction the author chose for this book.

Superb. I cannot wait for the next book!
Profile Image for Cait Marie.
Author 30 books360 followers
April 27, 2018
I had a very hard time putting this book down. The only reason it took me as long as it did was because I got busy with finals. The world-building is just incredible in this book and the characters were relatable. There is a lot to take in, but the more your read, the more it all makes sense. It’s action-packed with magical creatures in an original light vs. dark scenario. It was upbeat and amusing in parts, while still dealing with the serious issue of saving their kingdoms. I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait for the next one!

Read the full review here: https://functionallyfictional.com/201...
Profile Image for Pike Perrie.
134 reviews9 followers
April 24, 2018
Lela Grayce gives us a tale of four sets of twins destined for power, greatness, and a battle to save their world. In Areion we journey with Wendy and DeeDee as they discover on their 18th birthday that life is not as they thought the knew it to be. The interactions and rapport between the characters in this book is fast, witty, and brings humor that actually makes you giggle. They come into knowledge of who they are, powers that have been bound, and relationships that are oh so new. I look forward to journeying further with these twins and their protectors.
Profile Image for Lisa Eiff.
966 reviews27 followers
April 15, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters simply jump out and grab you. Wendy and DeeDee celebrate their 18th birthday shopping, but everything is about to change for both of them. They soon discover they are not even from the world they've spent their entire lives residing in. Get ready for a colorful cast of charismatic and captivating characters, and toss in a bit of mythology and supernatural flair, and buckle down for a ride to a new world that you have to see (um, or read about?) to believe!
Profile Image for Dayna DeMarco.
22 reviews1 follower
April 28, 2018
This debut novel written by the awesome Lela Grayce; is the first of what I'm sure to be an amazing series.
I enjoyed this book so much! It was an immersive and page turning read. I held onto this book for hours straight and could NOT put it down.
The way these characters linked together and helped balance each other out was pure perfection. I honestly cannot wait until the next installment and I hope it comes soon! I need more of this world and her characters! thanks again for the amazing read Mrs. Grayce
Profile Image for Kelly Stepp.
460 reviews10 followers
May 7, 2018
Wow, a great debut novel by a promising new author! I loved the story, humor, and sibling bond. It was easily engaging and well written. I did stall a little when the POV shifted, but in hindsight, I really liked having that perspective and it felt necessary to fully expand on the story. Wendy's romance also felt a little instant initially, but this leveled out quickly and felt more paced as the story progressed. I can't wait to see what happens next and look forward to reading more from this author.
22 reviews
June 19, 2018
I havent devoured a book as quickly as I have this one in such a long time. It pulls you in from the get go and doesnt ever release you from its colorful imaginative world. No matter who is telling the story it is always riddled with wonderful descriptions to bring the world of Gaii alive. I'm very positive I made pterodactyl sounds when my boyfriend tried interrupted my reading time. The worst thing about this book? Is that it ended too soon and I have to wait for book two. If you enjoy Sarah J Maas' work I definitely think you'll enjoy this one!
Profile Image for Jadyen (jayjaysbooknook).
90 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2018
This book started out on a nightmare and got 1000 times better as it went along. I was hooked from the first page and besides a short break for dinner read it in one sitting. I could not put it down. I loved the storyline and the growth of DeeDee and Wendy. The adventure was constant and it never lulled through the entire book, there was a reason for every event.

I am biting at the bit for book 2 because this book ended on a note that left me wanting more. I cannot wait to see where this path leads!
Profile Image for 2OCC Reviews.
3,487 reviews255 followers
March 23, 2019
This was a cool take on fantasy. I liked the overall story but for me it was a little to YA feeling for me. I liked the twins because they both had such unique personalities and think the author did amazing with details. Both girls were developed beautifully and very likable. Even though it was a little too young adult for me, I would read the next one to find out what’s going to happen in the world the author created. A huge pro to me with this book was the whole mind speak. I love books with mind speak and it helped bump this from a 3 to a 4 star read.. 4 stars #2OCCJD
5 reviews67 followers
March 20, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure that I was taken on in Areion. The world that was created was unique and new.

The author excels in world building as we learn about Gaai and other extensions, each world with its own uniqueness.

The readers are introduced to twins, Wednesday and December (Wendy and DeeDee), seemly normal, albeit a little different than others, as they shop and spend time together for their 18th Birthdays.

Their adoptive parents are hiding something, but before they can explain it to the girls, someone… or something… attacks Wendy.

Barely escaping with her life, Wendy demands answers from her parents. That night, the twins learn information that change not only their lives, but Earth and Gaai’s future.

I personally cannot wait to read book two when it comes out.
Profile Image for Chrissi.
1,583 reviews11 followers
June 11, 2018
Get ready to enter a world you won't want to leave. Well technically there are more than one, but I will let you discover that 😊.
The characters in this book are well developed, full of humour, sass, courage, determination and so much more. The worlds are easy to envisage and the lore well thought out. The storyline has so many twists and turns that you may want a seatbelt, so buckle up and enjoy the ride!
Profile Image for Sandra Loves Reading.
741 reviews10 followers
November 25, 2018
I SO enjoyed this story - it totally captured my imagination!
DeeDee and Wendy are twins. And they're approaching their 18th birthday, but some strange things start happening. All that they've known, isn't as it seems, as they are about to find out!
Having to run for their lives, they escape to Gaai - a land full of magic. And it's there the story really begins!
Magic, mysteries and treachery abound - can our young heroines survive it all?
Profile Image for Heather Renee.
Author 71 books723 followers
March 21, 2018
What am amazing journey I was taken while I read this fantasy mythology twist! Lela brought everything to life for me and surprised me with several twists. My only regret is reading it so fast and now having to wait for the next book! Wendy and Deedee were entertaining and enthralling. I can't wait to see where this author takes this magical story!
Profile Image for Lauren.
202 reviews3 followers
April 20, 2018
I loved this book. It was new and refreshing. The main characters being twins means there's two of them to get into more trouble when they reach eighteen. I can't wait for the next book. I was worried there was going to be weird information dumps and was pleasantly surprised that everything was presented in a fun and engaging format.
Profile Image for Book Addict.
1,563 reviews
April 27, 2018
Areion by Lela Grayce is a good start to a new series by a new author. This book is a little slow to start off but it really sets the scene for the rest of the series! This book allows the reader to have an insight into what is to come. It is full of action, adventure and character. Can’t wait to see what the next book brings!!
Profile Image for Karen Dubose.
Author 10 books301 followers
April 27, 2018
Loved it

It is different from anything I've ever read and I fell in love with the characters in the first two chapters. This is a must read. You won't want to put it down. The only thing that is going to kill me is book 2 can't be written fast enough lol. I want it now. Book hangover big time. Thank you Lela for such an amazing story.
57 reviews1 follower
April 30, 2018
Fantastic Read

This is a five star!!! Lela has done a fabulous job creating a magical world full of intrigue, suspense, love, loyalty and adventure! The characters are well thought out and I cannot wait to read the next book and learn more!!! If you love a good fantasy read this is for you!! Full of magic and excitement.
Profile Image for Sara.
174 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2018
Wow, wow, wow! Not very often can I say that it hurts me not to read but this book did just that. Having to step out of the pages and back to the real world made me so anxious that it was physically painful. Very well written and easy to get lost in the world of Areion.
Profile Image for Deanna Winters welch.
115 reviews7 followers
April 24, 2018
One of the best books I have read in over a year!!! Welcome to Areion, an amazing , fascinating world. Four sets of twins hold the key to saving their world. A story full of twists and turns and full of surprises. Can not wait for the next installment!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.