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The Xenith Trilogy #3
Within Ash and Stardust
Having gone from kidnapped faux princess to the legitimate heir to an intergalactic throne, an impulsive, sarcastic teen must take charge of her own destiny in this epic YA novel.
On Earth, Delaney is a normal teenager who recently graduated high school with a fantastic best friend and a loving boyfriend.
But Delaney isn’t on Earth. She’s on Xenith, a war-torn planet half a galaxy away. Originally mistaken for an alien princess, Delaney has gone from kidnapped imposter to the recognized heir to an alien throne. Oh, and she’s engaged to the prince of an enemy nation whose ruthless father is on the warpath.
Torn between two planets, two fates, and two loves, Delaney is finally ready to choose her own destiny in Within Ash and Stardust, the stunning conclusion to Chani Lynn Feener’s Xenith Trilogy.
Praise for the Xenith Trilogy:
"A thoughtful, sexy adventure with winning characters just begging for a bedtime read." —VOYA on Amid Stars and Darkness
"Feener’s world-building is excellent, and readers will feel engulfed in the culture, politics, and technology. The romance between Delaney and Ruckus develops slowly and satisfyingly. Give to fans of Melissa Landers’s Alienated and Ally Condie’s Matched." —School Library Journal on Amid Stars and Darkness
"This debut makes for fun, fluffy reading." —Booklist on Amid Stars and Darkness
"[A] pulse-pounding adventure." —Booklist on Between Frost and Fury
On Earth, Delaney is a normal teenager who recently graduated high school with a fantastic best friend and a loving boyfriend.
But Delaney isn’t on Earth. She’s on Xenith, a war-torn planet half a galaxy away. Originally mistaken for an alien princess, Delaney has gone from kidnapped imposter to the recognized heir to an alien throne. Oh, and she’s engaged to the prince of an enemy nation whose ruthless father is on the warpath.
Torn between two planets, two fates, and two loves, Delaney is finally ready to choose her own destiny in Within Ash and Stardust, the stunning conclusion to Chani Lynn Feener’s Xenith Trilogy.
Praise for the Xenith Trilogy:
"A thoughtful, sexy adventure with winning characters just begging for a bedtime read." —VOYA on Amid Stars and Darkness
"Feener’s world-building is excellent, and readers will feel engulfed in the culture, politics, and technology. The romance between Delaney and Ruckus develops slowly and satisfyingly. Give to fans of Melissa Landers’s Alienated and Ally Condie’s Matched." —School Library Journal on Amid Stars and Darkness
"This debut makes for fun, fluffy reading." —Booklist on Amid Stars and Darkness
"[A] pulse-pounding adventure." —Booklist on Between Frost and Fury
336 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2019
16 people are currently reading
724 people want to read
About the author
Chani Lynn Feener
62 books1,554 followersLibrarians, please don't add books. I stay up to date and add them myself and have ended up with many multiple copies because others add them later. Thank you!
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
Chani majored in Creative Writing at Johnson State College in Vermont. To pay her bills, she has worked many odd jobs, including, but not limited to, telemarketing, order picking in a warehouse, and filling ink cartridges. When she isn’t writing, she’s binging TV shows, drawing, or frequenting zoos/aquariums. She is the author of the Xenith trilogy, and the teen paranormal series, The Underworld Saga, originally written under the penname Tempest C. Avery. She currently resides in Connecticut.
Have a question? Check her blog! https://chanilynnfeener.wixsite.com/a...
Find her on Instagram @TempestChani
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
March 18, 2021
5 stars because my ship sailed.
July 22, 2019
Ultimately a satisfying end to a trilogy that has had my heart in a vice grip since the beginning. I just with there was a bit more--more Trystan, more warm fuzzies, just more. It was over too quickly!
September 1, 2019
Let me first say that I am sorry.
I'm sorry that I am curiously disappointed by this book.
I really was prepared to love it after reading book two--I mean, Trystan just nearly gave his life for Delaney, Delaney seemed to be letting go of Ruckus, and book three seemed so full of promise for good Trystan-and-Delaney moments.
But then book three started, and I felt that all the progress that was made in book two was forgotten, and Delaney (and me, too, come to think of it) were back at square one. Basically, all 300+ pages of the book ended up being a stretched out version of "Which of these two guys should Delaney choose?" when that wasn't even a real question to begin with (I mean, come on, the only answer is Trystan, of course.) A lot of the time, the guys just glared at each other jealously whenever the other revealed a special connection to Delaney, and Delaney just acted like they should get it together and work it out when she didn't even realize that she just needed to choose one of them already to solve all the problems between them.
Another thing I wished for were more "moments"--you know, moments between Delaney and Trystan just clearly showing their growing connection with each other. There were a few, but I felt the excellent tension that had been built in book two through moments like those was largely lost in this book because of all the other filler moments of battle and jealousy in between.
Also, and I say this with a heavy heart, I felt this book needed another round of good editing. There were just some odd writing things that really pulled me out of the adventure and back into English teacher mode--things like awkward sentences, incorrect pronouns, odd word choices (coagulate instead of congregate), and redundancies (mentions of "metal wire" and a building being "domeshaped, with a curved ceiling"). Plus, at one point, all the characters were mentioned arriving at a scene except Trystan, and then Trystan suddenly is there and starts talking. In another scene, after some characters had been tortured, Sanzie's fingers were described as bent awkwardly, but then she says they are flesh wounds (except fingers are mostly bone, so that confused me), and then she is typing furiously, all within eight pages.
I had an issue with the cliches in this book as well. For one, cliches are never good to use in writing, but this book especially needed to be cautious because the alien characters claimed not to know human phrases. So when Trystan is using phrases "like the plague" and such, it just got to me.
Finally, I also wished for more to the ending. I got most of what I wanted, I guess, but I was dying for one final moment between Trystan and Delaney to cherish after finishing the series. I guess I have book two for that.
So, like I said, I am sorry I didn't enjoy this book as much as I had hoped, but it was still a good finale to the series. Read it and see what you think.
I'm sorry that I am curiously disappointed by this book.
I really was prepared to love it after reading book two--I mean, Trystan just nearly gave his life for Delaney, Delaney seemed to be letting go of Ruckus, and book three seemed so full of promise for good Trystan-and-Delaney moments.
But then book three started, and I felt that all the progress that was made in book two was forgotten, and Delaney (and me, too, come to think of it) were back at square one. Basically, all 300+ pages of the book ended up being a stretched out version of "Which of these two guys should Delaney choose?" when that wasn't even a real question to begin with (I mean, come on, the only answer is Trystan, of course.) A lot of the time, the guys just glared at each other jealously whenever the other revealed a special connection to Delaney, and Delaney just acted like they should get it together and work it out when she didn't even realize that she just needed to choose one of them already to solve all the problems between them.
Another thing I wished for were more "moments"--you know, moments between Delaney and Trystan just clearly showing their growing connection with each other. There were a few, but I felt the excellent tension that had been built in book two through moments like those was largely lost in this book because of all the other filler moments of battle and jealousy in between.
Also, and I say this with a heavy heart, I felt this book needed another round of good editing. There were just some odd writing things that really pulled me out of the adventure and back into English teacher mode--things like awkward sentences, incorrect pronouns, odd word choices (coagulate instead of congregate), and redundancies (mentions of "metal wire" and a building being "domeshaped, with a curved ceiling"). Plus, at one point, all the characters were mentioned arriving at a scene except Trystan, and then Trystan suddenly is there and starts talking. In another scene, after some characters had been tortured, Sanzie's fingers were described as bent awkwardly, but then she says they are flesh wounds (except fingers are mostly bone, so that confused me), and then she is typing furiously, all within eight pages.
I had an issue with the cliches in this book as well. For one, cliches are never good to use in writing, but this book especially needed to be cautious because the alien characters claimed not to know human phrases. So when Trystan is using phrases "like the plague" and such, it just got to me.
Finally, I also wished for more to the ending. I got most of what I wanted, I guess, but I was dying for one final moment between Trystan and Delaney to cherish after finishing the series. I guess I have book two for that.
So, like I said, I am sorry I didn't enjoy this book as much as I had hoped, but it was still a good finale to the series. Read it and see what you think.
May 16, 2019
I was provided and ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This was everything I’ve been waiting for since Amid Stars and Darkness released in 2017, I absolutely loved it. Chani Lynn Feener delivered an incredible culmination of everything she’s built upon over the course of the trilogy.
“His only thought had been of Delaney, and not even coherently.”
It picked up exactly where BFAF left off. Which that ending, it destroyed me! I was so happy but so worried and then I wanted a certain other someone to just go away ...
I feel like all of the characters continued to progress, they make mistakes. They say the wrong thing. But they also all come to terms with what they want and what they actually deserve. I loved it. Have I mentioned I loved it?
I was approved for this book on an off day and I mentally told myself repeatedly that I would not read it in one day. I read it in one day. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! The book is filled with action but it’s also filled with this decadently sweet moments as well as some truly hilarious moments as well. I couldn’t stop smiling! I really truly enjoyed it and I hope everyone else that reads it enjoys it too.
"This time he was serious. Ruckus Wux was done for." ahahah
Happy reading!
This was everything I’ve been waiting for since Amid Stars and Darkness released in 2017, I absolutely loved it. Chani Lynn Feener delivered an incredible culmination of everything she’s built upon over the course of the trilogy.
“His only thought had been of Delaney, and not even coherently.”
It picked up exactly where BFAF left off. Which that ending, it destroyed me! I was so happy but so worried and then I wanted a certain other someone to just go away ...
I feel like all of the characters continued to progress, they make mistakes. They say the wrong thing. But they also all come to terms with what they want and what they actually deserve. I loved it. Have I mentioned I loved it?
I was approved for this book on an off day and I mentally told myself repeatedly that I would not read it in one day. I read it in one day. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! The book is filled with action but it’s also filled with this decadently sweet moments as well as some truly hilarious moments as well. I couldn’t stop smiling! I really truly enjoyed it and I hope everyone else that reads it enjoys it too.
"This time he was serious. Ruckus Wux was done for." ahahah
Happy reading!
July 17, 2019
I'm so sad that the Xenith Trilogy is over and that I read this in less than 24 hours. 😭💔
The ending felt a little rushed and something I wanted to happen, didn't, but the story still wrapped up nicely and I'm satisfied. This series has a part my heart, always. 📚💖🌠
The ending felt a little rushed and something I wanted to happen, didn't, but the story still wrapped up nicely and I'm satisfied. This series has a part my heart, always. 📚💖🌠
July 17, 2019
*Review can be found at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Shockingly, this review will be pretty short (for me) since this is the third book in an amazing ride and I don't want to give away any potential spoilers for the series or this book in general because this is a series that very much needs to be experienced.
This was a bittersweet read for me- on one hand I could not wait until this book was released so I could read it and see what happened next, but on the other I was not sure I was ready for the series to end and I had to say goodbye. When I first picked up Amid Stars And Darkness (book one in the series) I thought the book sounded interesting and I was interested in reading it. What I never expected was how fast I was going to get sucked into this dangerous, strange world and fall in love with Delaney and her Ruckus and her struggles to get home- and do what is right. Talk about being put into a bad situation and coming out a stronger, better person. The worst part about reading Amid Stars And Darkness was the year I had to wait to get my hands on Between Frost and Fury- and then again to finish the trilogy with this book, Within Ash and Stardust. I can easily say that each book has gotten better and better, the conflict more real and dangerous and the heartbreak so significant that I felt the struggle and was on the edge of my seat to see how everything would play out. To say that I love this series is a mild understatement- I adore it and think everyone should pick it up because I guarantee there is something for everyone here.
I will be the first to admit that I actively despise love triangles, nothing about them appeals to me... But, bravo Chani for making me be sucked into this love triangle for all it is worth. To be fair, I am pretty sure this romantic angst about ripped out my heart- but I would not change a single thing about it. Both men have their strength and flaws, both men are honestly good people (even if one of them you have to look deep, deep down), and I was just as torn and drawn to the men as Delaney. Yet, there was one person I rooted for from the beginning, there was just a spark I saw in him that drew me and I wanted to know more. I was not disappointed by what I found. This was the hardest struggle Delaney had to face, and that is saying something when she had the fate of multiple worlds on her hands.

I know I spoke about the romance a lot, but this series was not just about (an amazing, angsty) romance, but just as equally an action/adventure/science fiction story that was exciting and dangerous and all around encompassing. I am not sure how I am suppose to get over this book hangover but you can guarantee that I will gladly gobble up everything that Chani wants to write next.
You can find my review of Amid Stars and Darkness HERE and Between Frost and Fury HERE
Shockingly, this review will be pretty short (for me) since this is the third book in an amazing ride and I don't want to give away any potential spoilers for the series or this book in general because this is a series that very much needs to be experienced.
This was a bittersweet read for me- on one hand I could not wait until this book was released so I could read it and see what happened next, but on the other I was not sure I was ready for the series to end and I had to say goodbye. When I first picked up Amid Stars And Darkness (book one in the series) I thought the book sounded interesting and I was interested in reading it. What I never expected was how fast I was going to get sucked into this dangerous, strange world and fall in love with Delaney and her Ruckus and her struggles to get home- and do what is right. Talk about being put into a bad situation and coming out a stronger, better person. The worst part about reading Amid Stars And Darkness was the year I had to wait to get my hands on Between Frost and Fury- and then again to finish the trilogy with this book, Within Ash and Stardust. I can easily say that each book has gotten better and better, the conflict more real and dangerous and the heartbreak so significant that I felt the struggle and was on the edge of my seat to see how everything would play out. To say that I love this series is a mild understatement- I adore it and think everyone should pick it up because I guarantee there is something for everyone here.
I will be the first to admit that I actively despise love triangles, nothing about them appeals to me... But, bravo Chani for making me be sucked into this love triangle for all it is worth. To be fair, I am pretty sure this romantic angst about ripped out my heart- but I would not change a single thing about it. Both men have their strength and flaws, both men are honestly good people (even if one of them you have to look deep, deep down), and I was just as torn and drawn to the men as Delaney. Yet, there was one person I rooted for from the beginning, there was just a spark I saw in him that drew me and I wanted to know more. I was not disappointed by what I found. This was the hardest struggle Delaney had to face, and that is saying something when she had the fate of multiple worlds on her hands.

I know I spoke about the romance a lot, but this series was not just about (an amazing, angsty) romance, but just as equally an action/adventure/science fiction story that was exciting and dangerous and all around encompassing. I am not sure how I am suppose to get over this book hangover but you can guarantee that I will gladly gobble up everything that Chani wants to write next.
You can find my review of Amid Stars and Darkness HERE and Between Frost and Fury HERE
July 17, 2019
So I'm conflicted between giving this a 3 or a 4 so let's call it a 3.5.
I was really excited for the final book in this series and especially to see who Delaney chose in the end. I hate love triangles but this one was sort of interesting because of how her relationship developed with Trystan and I had a really hard time not skipping to the epilogue just to see if I was going to be upset. Luckily I wasn't.
However, I was frustrated with the epilogue because I feel like the whole book was Delaney confused about everything and then when she finally chose Trystan, we only got a tiny glimpse into their adorableness and dynamic as Rex and Basilissa of Xenith.
So 4 stars because she ended up with the right guy but -.5 because there weren't enough scenes with Delaney and Trystan besides the one on his birthday and she was all over the place so that didn't really count.
Also, clarification that I didn't hate Ruckus but Trystan was obviously better.
I was really excited for the final book in this series and especially to see who Delaney chose in the end. I hate love triangles but this one was sort of interesting because of how her relationship developed with Trystan and I had a really hard time not skipping to the epilogue just to see if I was going to be upset. Luckily I wasn't.
However, I was frustrated with the epilogue because I feel like the whole book was Delaney confused about everything and then when she finally chose Trystan, we only got a tiny glimpse into their adorableness and dynamic as Rex and Basilissa of Xenith.
So 4 stars because she ended up with the right guy but -.5 because there weren't enough scenes with Delaney and Trystan besides the one on his birthday and she was all over the place so that didn't really count.
Also, clarification that I didn't hate Ruckus but Trystan was obviously better.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 19, 2019Graded By: Stephanie
Cover Story: All By Myseeeeelf
BFF Charm: Shrug
Swoonworthy Scale: 3
Talky Talk: Rinse and Repeat
Bonus Factors: Alien Traditions
Relationship Status: Free At Last
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: All By Myseeeeelf
BFF Charm: Shrug
Swoonworthy Scale: 3
Talky Talk: Rinse and Repeat
Bonus Factors: Alien Traditions
Relationship Status: Free At Last
Read the full book report here.
December 24, 2019
I appreciated a lot of things with this book, it ended with some happiness and some tears. I appreciate the difficulties of the characters still had to conquer.
2 things that I struggled with, Trystan my main man seemed to have lost a bit of "himself" when it came to Delany maybe I expected a little more struggle on his part.
And when a certain event happened it came on easily like there was no struggle emotionally or mentally when it happened.
Anyway overall I really liked the series mostly because I loved Trystan and his character. He ROCKED!
2 things that I struggled with, Trystan my main man seemed to have lost a bit of "himself" when it came to Delany maybe I expected a little more struggle on his part.
And when a certain event happened it came on easily like there was no struggle emotionally or mentally when it happened.
Anyway overall I really liked the series mostly because I loved Trystan and his character. He ROCKED!
November 16, 2020
So I guess, full review to come!
Okay. Here's the review that I originally wrote when I finished during a power outage and had to write down on paper. Just letting everyone know that the review is filled with spoilers!
Okay. Now current thoughts.
After having some time to debate and think about it, I have found that this book is really - and sadly - my least favorite of the series. It was filled with the debate of "Ruckus vs. Trystan" and I thought that Delaney and I had already gone through this in book two. I mean, what about all of the points that I found in Trystan's favor?
*Ahem!*
Why I am on Team Trystan:
1) He is deep.
Like there-is-totally-more-to-this-guy-than-what-meets-the-eye-and-than-Ruckus deep. There is just so much happening in his mind, his life, his stares, his brain, his relationships. He makes you totally understand him, pity him. (I mean, Delaney come on. He is totally better than Ruckus.)
2)He isn't annoying.
I literally love the chemistry between Delaney and Trystan because it is real. In the first book, I feel like Delaney and Ruckus only became an item because... of something. Maybe cause she felt he was the only one she could trust???? But otherwise I feel like they didn't have much to build on other than they both felt they needed to have a relationship? There wasn't really much there. But with Trystan, I saw similarities to their lives and their likes. And it was also a relief that Trystan didn't fall all over Delaney. He restrained himself, keeping his feelings hidden because it was his reaction from how he grew up. Ruckus, in my opinion was a horrible guard, he can't hide his feelings which, after rereading the first book, really showed and was a little annoying because he is supposed to be this great soldier but you never see it.
3) He gives up his life for her.
Trystan repeatedly tells Delaney that he'd risk his life to keep her safe. (swoon) Even when she totally gives him the cold shoulder he is so committed to keeping her safe. He even took a bullet (technically a zee, but I don't feel like saying it right now - I mean, it's almost 1 am) for her! And Ruckus???? I don't believe he ever risked his safety for hers and was never really there to save her in the first book when the assassination attempts took place.
4) He is actually smart.
I mean, seriously Ruckus? You couldn't see how suspicious it would be to not come back with the real Olena at the end of the first book when you were supposedly leaving Xenith to keep her safe from an attack? And leaving right away with Delaney wasn't a good choice from the beginning because of that. If Ruckus were smart and as great a soldier as he supposedly is, he should have come back with the real Olena, keeping her line to convince Trystan, and leave months later to take his denzeration. But Ruckus isn't smart and didn't do that. He was just so head over heels for Delaney that he couldn't keep his mind straight and be smart. Trystan stores information, uses reasoning - even when things are rough, like at the end of this one - and thinks things through before acting out, like at the end of this one. A main difference between Trystan and Ruckus? Trystan actually uses his BRAIN!
4)He bakes.
He can make his own food! I mean if Trystan baked for ME? I would probably swoon. (I swoon just reading about him baking for Delaney...) I know his baking seems weird but you learn the backstory to this (which makes him even more deep if you ask me.) He made her dinner - which Ruckus is horrible at (he burns the food) - and he made her yummy desserts! And he knows her food preferences! And he is totally more observant than Ruckus! And he tells her more things than Ruckus. And he has a better fashion sense than Ruckus.
5)You can see where this is going...
Trystan is just totally better than Ruckus!
But Delaney threw all of that knowledge aside and was actually very rude and kind of mean to Trystan in this one. Is that how you thank the guy that has saved your life COUNTLESS times!? Way to look the gift horse in the mouth!
Throughout this one, Delaney basically had two boyfriends. And no one else seemed to care, really. They all understood and didn't want to "question their Lissa." At least, that was my guess. I could not seem to understand that though! I spent how long feeling really, REALLY sad for Trystan and then Delaney acts like a flustered chicken when faced with the choice between Mr. Right and Mr. Wrong! And she constantly avoids it!
Just so you are all aware, I did enjoy this one when it started to pick up more, but from coming from the end of the second where it seemed like Delaney had already made her choice and then getting dropped into the debate again? It felt like how it would if you were running on a sugar high and then getting tired after it ran out. I was super happy with the beginning. Delaney was determined to stay with Trystan until he woke up from almost dying because he was saving her life - yet again! - and Ruckus was being insecure. But then suddenly Delaney started to wimp out of her decision.
I was also hoping that Ruckus would fall in love with Sanzie again, but Feener kind of left that hanging as them making up and becoming sort-of acquaintances.
And the hair dye thing? I never liked it and I also hoped that it would say at the end if she washed it all out but there was never a word. The hair dye thing was... an okay disguise but I think it would have been better if they had brought back the device Olena had used in the first book and made Delaney look like Sanzie. That would have been great!! Imagine the scenes that could have happened to confuse Ruckus!!
Overall, yes. I still stand with what I mentioned earlier. It's a good series and a trilogy of good reads, but this one just lost the zing that the first two had. I'll have to say that my ranking is:
Book 2, Book 1, Book 3.
Still a good read and I do recommend.
Try this series out and have fun!
My rating: 3 stars. Sorry, Chani!! But thanks for the ride!
August 3, 2023
2.5/5 stars
**This review contains spoilers for the first two books, Amid Stars and Darkness and Between Frost and Fury. If you want my non-spoilery thoughts on those books, go to my reviews for them, and read the first half**
Spoiler-Free Thoughts:
Broad:
This was a good conclusion to the trilogy, but I really don't feel like this series needed to be a trilogy. I was bored through this book, and wasn't surprised at anything that happened. The second book should have just been a little bit longer with this same ending, and then it could have been a pretty good duology. The main reason I think this was three instead of two books was because of the love triangle.
Summary:
Olena is dead and Trystan, Ruckus, and Delaney need to take down the Rex, to replace him with Trystan. Furthermore, Delaney needs to decide if she is going to stay with her boyfriend Ruckus, who basically wasn't in the second book, or her betrothed Trystan, who she grew incredibly close with over the past few weeks.
Specific:
Like I said in my last review, I don't care for love triangles, especially ones that are so obvious. All of the pages of this book just felt like a filler to get to the ending. There were some cute scenes here and there, and the ending (while predictable) was good.
SPOILERS:
What d'ya know, Delaney and Trystan got together *shocker!!*. There was literally no chance for Ruckus. I am surprised that they just... broke up, and while they were both jealous and mistrustful of the other throughout the book, Ruckus didn't do anything horrible or die. So I guess that's good.
The Basillia ending up sacrificing herself was nice and made sense with her character. The Rex trying to wipe Trystan's memories also fit with his character. Good on Trystan for killing him off.
Conclusion:
I'm so happy that I've finally finished this series after more than two years, even if the final book wasn't the best thing ever. I do think that this series should be more popular. Anyways, I wish Ruckus, Delaney, and Trystan the best!
**This review contains spoilers for the first two books, Amid Stars and Darkness and Between Frost and Fury. If you want my non-spoilery thoughts on those books, go to my reviews for them, and read the first half**
Spoiler-Free Thoughts:
Broad:
This was a good conclusion to the trilogy, but I really don't feel like this series needed to be a trilogy. I was bored through this book, and wasn't surprised at anything that happened. The second book should have just been a little bit longer with this same ending, and then it could have been a pretty good duology. The main reason I think this was three instead of two books was because of the love triangle.
Summary:
Olena is dead and Trystan, Ruckus, and Delaney need to take down the Rex, to replace him with Trystan. Furthermore, Delaney needs to decide if she is going to stay with her boyfriend Ruckus, who basically wasn't in the second book, or her betrothed Trystan, who she grew incredibly close with over the past few weeks.
Specific:
Like I said in my last review, I don't care for love triangles, especially ones that are so obvious. All of the pages of this book just felt like a filler to get to the ending. There were some cute scenes here and there, and the ending (while predictable) was good.
SPOILERS:
What d'ya know, Delaney and Trystan got together *shocker!!*. There was literally no chance for Ruckus. I am surprised that they just... broke up, and while they were both jealous and mistrustful of the other throughout the book, Ruckus didn't do anything horrible or die. So I guess that's good.
The Basillia ending up sacrificing herself was nice and made sense with her character. The Rex trying to wipe Trystan's memories also fit with his character. Good on Trystan for killing him off.
Conclusion:
I'm so happy that I've finally finished this series after more than two years, even if the final book wasn't the best thing ever. I do think that this series should be more popular. Anyways, I wish Ruckus, Delaney, and Trystan the best!
October 23, 2019
Phew! That was a VERY satisfying love triangle - I was constantly unsure who Delaney would ultimately choose, and I am happy she chose the guy I preferred. I definitely could have used more romance and kisses with the love interest, but I have really enjoyed this trilogy and am very happy with how it concluded. Plenty of action, plenty of excitement, an intimidating villain, and a well done love triangle, not to mention an adorable declaration of love.
This was a really good sci fi series.
This was a really good sci fi series.
February 7, 2022
Love these characters and the way this series ended. I hate saying goodbye to favorite characters.
October 9, 2019
I was so anticipating this sequel after the ending of the second book, and I went with pretty high expectations into it, and overall I have to say that I was so pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed Within Ash and Stardust and how satisfied I was with that ending.
I would say though, that despite me finding these books so addictive, I still had a couple of issues with some elements of the story. Even though we got to see more about the world and the society, there were things about those aspects that were a bit lacking, and for a third book in a series I expected to have a fair view of the world building and a bit more in depth descriptions, and there weren’t much. I still loved everything that I learnt from when they went to Varasow, and I really enjoyed those scenes.
When it comes to the characters, I’d say I was pretty happy with everything. Though it’s true that the first third of the novel was more focused on the love triangle and the gives and takes between Rukus and Trystan, as soon as the plot started almost all of it stoped, but at the very beginning it was a bit repetitive those little fights and jealously between them.
I loved the character growth of Delaney. In the first two installments she was a bit annoying and didn’t make the best decisions, but in this particular one she had such a nice evolution and acted a bit more rationally, which was something I deeply appreciated. I also enjoyed a lot her dynamics with Trystan, and her relationship with him in general, and was so pleased to see that my ship didn’t sink into the ocean.
Again, I find these books so fast paced and easy to get into. I had no issue with the pacing of the story, and Within Ash and Stardust was so addicting I was constantly at the edge of my seat wanting to know how it was going to end.
Overall, I’m so pleased with how these series ended, and though I feel this book focused a bit more on tying things up and letting us know more about the villain and less about the romance, I really liked the ending.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This doesn’t change my opinion whatsoever. All thoughts are my own.
Thank you Macmillan and Swoon reads for the ARC
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I would say though, that despite me finding these books so addictive, I still had a couple of issues with some elements of the story. Even though we got to see more about the world and the society, there were things about those aspects that were a bit lacking, and for a third book in a series I expected to have a fair view of the world building and a bit more in depth descriptions, and there weren’t much. I still loved everything that I learnt from when they went to Varasow, and I really enjoyed those scenes.
When it comes to the characters, I’d say I was pretty happy with everything. Though it’s true that the first third of the novel was more focused on the love triangle and the gives and takes between Rukus and Trystan, as soon as the plot started almost all of it stoped, but at the very beginning it was a bit repetitive those little fights and jealously between them.
I loved the character growth of Delaney. In the first two installments she was a bit annoying and didn’t make the best decisions, but in this particular one she had such a nice evolution and acted a bit more rationally, which was something I deeply appreciated. I also enjoyed a lot her dynamics with Trystan, and her relationship with him in general, and was so pleased to see that my ship didn’t sink into the ocean.
Again, I find these books so fast paced and easy to get into. I had no issue with the pacing of the story, and Within Ash and Stardust was so addicting I was constantly at the edge of my seat wanting to know how it was going to end.
Overall, I’m so pleased with how these series ended, and though I feel this book focused a bit more on tying things up and letting us know more about the villain and less about the romance, I really liked the ending.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. This doesn’t change my opinion whatsoever. All thoughts are my own.
Thank you Macmillan and Swoon reads for the ARC
Blog | Twitter | Instagram | BlogLovin’
July 30, 2019
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Within Ash and Stardust is a conclusion to the Xenith Trilogy that will enthrall, engage, and gives you a story filled with action, danger, and excitement!
I am now fully satisfied that I was able to read the final journey of Delaney, Trystan, Ruckus, and the other characters! I loved this series! This is one of the books that took my reading slump away, and I know it’s because I’ve been waiting for this since I’ve read the first book.
I like the author’s writing style. It is easy to read, and the readers can immediately be drawn in reading and finishing the book. I love how she developed the world-building and the characters. The voice in the book was not hard to follow, like who talks and whose mind was sharing their thoughts with you. There is also lots of action that took place in this novel than in the first two books, and that intensifies my reading experience.
The characters were not hard to love! You can fully see that they are flawed characters. But, as the story came close to its conclusion, they slowly recognized what’s their bad side, and they changed it for the better. I love how they think too. They weigh and think over something carefully. They might rush in some scenes, but most of the time, they check if their plan and solution is a viable option. Oh! I also love Mariana! I remember Lilly Moscovitz of The Princess Diaries from her. I am curious if there would be a story for her because it would be fun to read a story with her as the main character.
The world-building is fantastic! I want to visit the place if it ever existed! The detailed description of the places there is excellent because I can visually see it in my mind. Reading this book tells me what kind of culture, politics, and traditions they have in Xenith. It’s not so different from the Earth, but there are a few which amazes me on how it was explained well.
The book covers from book one to three are all amazingly beautiful too! I love it!
Overall, this book, series rather, is one of my favorites! I am not into aliens before, but this piqued my interest in reading more books about them. I am recommending this book to anyone who likes aliens with an action-packed story, and with a sweet romance between the characters that you’ll hate and love.
Disclaimer: I received an advance reading copy via Xpresso Book Tours.
Within Ash and Stardust is a conclusion to the Xenith Trilogy that will enthrall, engage, and gives you a story filled with action, danger, and excitement!
I am now fully satisfied that I was able to read the final journey of Delaney, Trystan, Ruckus, and the other characters! I loved this series! This is one of the books that took my reading slump away, and I know it’s because I’ve been waiting for this since I’ve read the first book.
I like the author’s writing style. It is easy to read, and the readers can immediately be drawn in reading and finishing the book. I love how she developed the world-building and the characters. The voice in the book was not hard to follow, like who talks and whose mind was sharing their thoughts with you. There is also lots of action that took place in this novel than in the first two books, and that intensifies my reading experience.
The characters were not hard to love! You can fully see that they are flawed characters. But, as the story came close to its conclusion, they slowly recognized what’s their bad side, and they changed it for the better. I love how they think too. They weigh and think over something carefully. They might rush in some scenes, but most of the time, they check if their plan and solution is a viable option. Oh! I also love Mariana! I remember Lilly Moscovitz of The Princess Diaries from her. I am curious if there would be a story for her because it would be fun to read a story with her as the main character.
The world-building is fantastic! I want to visit the place if it ever existed! The detailed description of the places there is excellent because I can visually see it in my mind. Reading this book tells me what kind of culture, politics, and traditions they have in Xenith. It’s not so different from the Earth, but there are a few which amazes me on how it was explained well.
The book covers from book one to three are all amazingly beautiful too! I love it!
Overall, this book, series rather, is one of my favorites! I am not into aliens before, but this piqued my interest in reading more books about them. I am recommending this book to anyone who likes aliens with an action-packed story, and with a sweet romance between the characters that you’ll hate and love.
Disclaimer: I received an advance reading copy via Xpresso Book Tours.
April 23, 2020
This is one of my favorite trilogies. This was such a fun action packed and emotional ending that I loved!
I do like love triangles but without spoilers I wish there had been more of a clear front runner. Of course I had my preference but I did find myself wanting her to be more decisive about her intentions.
That being said this series is a must read! I still am giving this book 5 out of 5 stars!
I do like love triangles but without spoilers I wish there had been more of a clear front runner. Of course I had my preference but I did find myself wanting her to be more decisive about her intentions.
That being said this series is a must read! I still am giving this book 5 out of 5 stars!
March 31, 2020
To be clear, my rating is more of a 3.5, NOT a solid 4.
I'm very relieved that this book, being the final installment in the trilogy, did not lose the momentum of the plot. The story continued to move at a great pace with lots of action and turmoil.
I'm really glad Delaney chose the man she did (I liked him wayyy more). But I'm not necessarily satisfied with how things ended with the other guy. It wasn't a horrible break up or anything, I'm just not convinced that she picked *him* over the other because she truly loves him more or if it was just due to circumstances that she coincidentally and conveniently stayed with one while the other moved away. I mean, yes, I saw that she loved both Trystan and Ruckus, but I can't confidently say that she sincerely loves one more than the other based on her actions, thoughts, and interactions up till the end of the book. In the last 10 pages she has the "realization" of who she feels "right" with, but for me as the reader, this was too little too late. Feener really needed to flesh-out the dynamics between both love interests to provide credible evidence that Delaney should be with one man over the other. While I am happy with who she ended up with, it felt rushed and unsatisfying...
In regards to world-building, Feener did a nice job by the end of this series. Vakar and Kint customs were more clearly distinguished (details starting in book 2), which helped quite a bit with visualization. Descriptions of colors and tones were crisp and rooms/scenes came to life in my head. The market that Delaney visits toward the middle of the book with the stardust was particularly enchanting and very well crafted.
What still lacked by the end of this series was the politics. I understand that Xenith is ruled by 2 separate monarchs with significant foot soldiers and scientists, and there's a council, but aside from that, not much is clear. This is a weak point for this series only in the fact that it lacks a significant piece of the world-building. If the politics had been developed it would have crafted that much more of a story. Without it, this story is much more character driven, much like a movie, where the characters are what propel the story forward and it's *their* desire to stop the bad guys and their perception of what's going on that has us on the edge of our seats. The end of this story, in the last 75 or so pages starts to skim the politics on this world in a bit more depth, giving us a taste of what this story could be. I actually think that this story could continue if Feener wanted. She could continue the story with rebuilding Xenith and uniting Kint and Vakar, especially with the epilogue of book 3. If the story were to continue and include more politics, including these nitty gitty details, these books would be significantly redeemed.
I am also somewhat disappointed that we did not get to know the side/supporting characters better. If they too were further explored in a future continuation book, that would be wonderful too!
I would recommend this series, but really only to people who enjoy fantasy/sci-fi, action, and romance already. By the end of this series, I was very much reminded of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas - nothing against Feener because I truly enjoyed this series for what it was, but Maas executed and delivered this story with many more layers of depth that make it superior to the Xenith trilogy.
I'm very relieved that this book, being the final installment in the trilogy, did not lose the momentum of the plot. The story continued to move at a great pace with lots of action and turmoil.
I'm really glad Delaney chose the man she did (I liked him wayyy more). But I'm not necessarily satisfied with how things ended with the other guy. It wasn't a horrible break up or anything, I'm just not convinced that she picked *him* over the other because she truly loves him more or if it was just due to circumstances that she coincidentally and conveniently stayed with one while the other moved away. I mean, yes, I saw that she loved both Trystan and Ruckus, but I can't confidently say that she sincerely loves one more than the other based on her actions, thoughts, and interactions up till the end of the book. In the last 10 pages she has the "realization" of who she feels "right" with, but for me as the reader, this was too little too late. Feener really needed to flesh-out the dynamics between both love interests to provide credible evidence that Delaney should be with one man over the other. While I am happy with who she ended up with, it felt rushed and unsatisfying...
In regards to world-building, Feener did a nice job by the end of this series. Vakar and Kint customs were more clearly distinguished (details starting in book 2), which helped quite a bit with visualization. Descriptions of colors and tones were crisp and rooms/scenes came to life in my head. The market that Delaney visits toward the middle of the book with the stardust was particularly enchanting and very well crafted.
What still lacked by the end of this series was the politics. I understand that Xenith is ruled by 2 separate monarchs with significant foot soldiers and scientists, and there's a council, but aside from that, not much is clear. This is a weak point for this series only in the fact that it lacks a significant piece of the world-building. If the politics had been developed it would have crafted that much more of a story. Without it, this story is much more character driven, much like a movie, where the characters are what propel the story forward and it's *their* desire to stop the bad guys and their perception of what's going on that has us on the edge of our seats. The end of this story, in the last 75 or so pages starts to skim the politics on this world in a bit more depth, giving us a taste of what this story could be. I actually think that this story could continue if Feener wanted. She could continue the story with rebuilding Xenith and uniting Kint and Vakar, especially with the epilogue of book 3. If the story were to continue and include more politics, including these nitty gitty details, these books would be significantly redeemed.
I am also somewhat disappointed that we did not get to know the side/supporting characters better. If they too were further explored in a future continuation book, that would be wonderful too!
I would recommend this series, but really only to people who enjoy fantasy/sci-fi, action, and romance already. By the end of this series, I was very much reminded of A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas - nothing against Feener because I truly enjoyed this series for what it was, but Maas executed and delivered this story with many more layers of depth that make it superior to the Xenith trilogy.
May 3, 2025
It is clear that as this series was written the author honed their craft, taking full advantage of the practice and confidence gotten from the first two books in this series. This book is the shortest yet the most action packed.
Ultimately, this book is a love triangle with a backdrop of the alien political intrigue. This book brings us to the final decision. I think it was the best one honestly. Not only morally but from a literary perspective; it quickly became clear that one love interest had more intense feelings, more intense loyalty, and overall, more interaction and growth as a couple with the MC than the other. I got scared for a second there that the author was going to cop out of the decision and I'm glad they didn't. While I think the love interest that was rejected is overall the better man, I also think the MC isn't good enough for them. I don't know if it was intentionally done by the author, but it was very clear the MC was hypocritical in their expectations and treatment of the rejected love interest before the official rejection. The rejected interest also got near zero-page space in the second book, their love story (from the first book) in comparison to the second book also lacked a lot of chemistry and could be labelled as insta-love or trauma bonded. This is even acknowledged by the rejected interest on page which persuades me to think the characterizations were intentional by the author.
Unfortunately, it is a YA so although the political intrigue, the action, the ante as a whole was intensified and perfected as a YA book it still wasn't 'enough' for me.
I also found that in the end I didn't like the main character. Her story isn't bad it's just not the kind of character I get behind. Maybe she's not self-aware enough of her actions and how they affect others and how her constant capitulation to her captors felt self-deprecating at best. Personally, I thought she was pretty bad ass. She actively learnt to fight, shoot and engage in political intrigue. She didn't back down from her morals. But even she internally monologues about her apparent 'weakness' when in reality she wasn't. I don't know, maybe it was a style choice, and the takeaway is supposed to be that she and everyone else around her is wrong and she's always been strong and powerful. But constantly reading the opposite beliefs from her own internal monologue and other characters didn't do it for me.
Ultimately, this book is a love triangle with a backdrop of the alien political intrigue. This book brings us to the final decision. I think it was the best one honestly. Not only morally but from a literary perspective; it quickly became clear that one love interest had more intense feelings, more intense loyalty, and overall, more interaction and growth as a couple with the MC than the other. I got scared for a second there that the author was going to cop out of the decision and I'm glad they didn't. While I think the love interest that was rejected is overall the better man, I also think the MC isn't good enough for them. I don't know if it was intentionally done by the author, but it was very clear the MC was hypocritical in their expectations and treatment of the rejected love interest before the official rejection. The rejected interest also got near zero-page space in the second book, their love story (from the first book) in comparison to the second book also lacked a lot of chemistry and could be labelled as insta-love or trauma bonded. This is even acknowledged by the rejected interest on page which persuades me to think the characterizations were intentional by the author.
Unfortunately, it is a YA so although the political intrigue, the action, the ante as a whole was intensified and perfected as a YA book it still wasn't 'enough' for me.
I also found that in the end I didn't like the main character. Her story isn't bad it's just not the kind of character I get behind. Maybe she's not self-aware enough of her actions and how they affect others and how her constant capitulation to her captors felt self-deprecating at best. Personally, I thought she was pretty bad ass. She actively learnt to fight, shoot and engage in political intrigue. She didn't back down from her morals. But even she internally monologues about her apparent 'weakness' when in reality she wasn't. I don't know, maybe it was a style choice, and the takeaway is supposed to be that she and everyone else around her is wrong and she's always been strong and powerful. But constantly reading the opposite beliefs from her own internal monologue and other characters didn't do it for me.
November 8, 2022
Disappointed by the ending because that honestly was not the ship I was hoping for, but you saw it coming from a mile away. I would have liked this ship had I not been so attached to the other one from the start of it.
That said, it also wasn't as good as the first two. Yes, this is a romance-heavy series, but initially, the books center more on the plot with the romance on the sidelines, which works because Delaney is getting to know both Ruckus and Trystan. This one, however, is focused on the romance with the plot shunted to the side. In fact, it's such a generic plot the Big Bad Villain becomes like a caricature of what he used to be. Plus, the book absolutely DRAGS until the last quarter when the story becomes a focus again.
I really, honestly, truly could have lived my entire life without needing this specific love triangle. Just introduce one ship and leave it be because this book centered on Delaney's inability to choose. The whole thing was 'Trystan and Ruckus glaring at each other and/or arguing while Delaney jumps headfirst into a situation and kills everything' which is good for her, but I want her to kick butt without shoving the male leads into a glaring match instead of helping out.
I feel like I found more errors or weird writing in this one, and it could be because everything slowed down and I had to force myself to concentrate, which meant I was seriously paying attention to the style.
The first one was the best and I should have stopped while I was ahead and ignored the epilogue.
That said, it also wasn't as good as the first two. Yes, this is a romance-heavy series, but initially, the books center more on the plot with the romance on the sidelines, which works because Delaney is getting to know both Ruckus and Trystan. This one, however, is focused on the romance with the plot shunted to the side. In fact, it's such a generic plot the Big Bad Villain becomes like a caricature of what he used to be. Plus, the book absolutely DRAGS until the last quarter when the story becomes a focus again.
I really, honestly, truly could have lived my entire life without needing this specific love triangle. Just introduce one ship and leave it be because this book centered on Delaney's inability to choose. The whole thing was 'Trystan and Ruckus glaring at each other and/or arguing while Delaney jumps headfirst into a situation and kills everything' which is good for her, but I want her to kick butt without shoving the male leads into a glaring match instead of helping out.
I feel like I found more errors or weird writing in this one, and it could be because everything slowed down and I had to force myself to concentrate, which meant I was seriously paying attention to the style.
The first one was the best and I should have stopped while I was ahead and ignored the epilogue.
July 11, 2019
WITHIN ASH AND STARDUST is amazing. I am currently on a space/scyfy kick, so this was right along my current desired reading (and watching as I've been watching many movies with the theme). I was so enthralled by Delaney's path and where she's going, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. The mixture of Tristan and Ruckus, and the love triangle, was phenomenal. I felt a little confused through some of that storyline as it was not quite a clear choice who Delaney would be with in the end. But it was amazing nontheless.
Wow! What a privilege it has been to read and enjoy this amazing trilogy. I don't know how to put it to words, but I am going to do my best. From afar, I watched Chani Lynn Feener and The Xenith Trilogy grow into something purely fantastic. I have always wanted to read the first books in the series, but somehow they just kept passing me by. Not on purpose, the opportunity just never came my way. So, I would like to thank Xpresso Book Tours, the author and the publisher for this amazing chance.
Wow! What a privilege it has been to read and enjoy this amazing trilogy. I don't know how to put it to words, but I am going to do my best. From afar, I watched Chani Lynn Feener and The Xenith Trilogy grow into something purely fantastic. I have always wanted to read the first books in the series, but somehow they just kept passing me by. Not on purpose, the opportunity just never came my way. So, I would like to thank Xpresso Book Tours, the author and the publisher for this amazing chance.
July 23, 2019
This was so well written and might be my favorite book of the series! The story flowed very well and the character interactions were perfect! I still can’t believe the series is over because it was literally SO AMAZING! The Xenith Trilogy is definitely worth reading and I would recommend it to anyone who loves a good space adventure with some good old love triangle action. A great conclusion to a wonderful series that I enjoyed reading.
August 23, 2019
I went into this final book with reservations mainly due to the love triangle.
However, justice was served.
However, justice was served.
October 23, 2019
This will forever be one of my favorite series!!! What a perfect ending to give me all the feels.
February 8, 2020
The ending 😍😭 SO FREAKING CUTE
December 31, 2020
this book wasn't very good and I knew going into it it probably wouldn't be very good but I read it out of obligation to myself from two years ago who was obsessed loll
to younger kay: you're welcome
to younger kay: you're welcome
November 1, 2021
A solid end to the series. I really liked how the love triangle played out but not everyone likes a love triangle so there’s that.
July 2, 2019
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult / SyFy / Romance
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Within Ash and Stardust is the third and final installment in author Chani Lynn Feener's The Xenith Trilogy. This story begins right where Between Frost and Fury ended on a cliffhanger. Delaney Grace has survived several attempts at killing her, now she must choose her fate as well as save Earth from being destroyed. Even though she is supposed to be heir to the Basilissa (Uprisen Heir), she has two men in her life that has split her attention.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Young Adult / SyFy / Romance
*Rating* 3.5
*Thoughts*
Within Ash and Stardust is the third and final installment in author Chani Lynn Feener's The Xenith Trilogy. This story begins right where Between Frost and Fury ended on a cliffhanger. Delaney Grace has survived several attempts at killing her, now she must choose her fate as well as save Earth from being destroyed. Even though she is supposed to be heir to the Basilissa (Uprisen Heir), she has two men in her life that has split her attention.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
March 21, 2019
I enjoyed the conclusion of Delaney's journey and was satisfied with the conclusion of the trilogy. It was predictable and seemed more fit for a younger audience in search of a clean love story. I was hoping things would get steamier but overall liked the book.
** I received this ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
** I received this ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review**
August 27, 2019
An exciting and satisfying to this trilogy. And she picked the boy I loved!!!
January 16, 2024
2 Years After Reading . . . I never wrote a review for this. Why did it only get 2 stars? I love this series. Time for a reread.
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