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The Heir #2
Shattered Heir
Emma’s life went from tragedy to tragedy, like bees fly from flower to flower.
Not only were her parents murdered before her eyes, her best friend was beaten, the boy she loved had his soul taken, but she also had to come to terms with her new identity as a princess from a planet where peoples’ souls actually sing. But Emma’s newest problem—how to save the boy she loved before there was nothing left to save—felt entirely impossible to overcome.
Yes, it is a lot for any teenager to deal with. If she had her Shad, not the soulless boy who looked like him at her side, she knew nothing would be too much for her to handle. However, when Cadian shows up at her school, Emma adds him to her lengthy list of problems. She tries to keep away from him, but with Shad’s melody inside of Cadian, it makes everything more complicated. The hatred she harbors for him starts to change. Is he playing a game? Or is it possible that when he has a soul, he isn't as evil as she once believed him to be?
Emma knows that time is running out for Shad. Forced to go against everything she holds dear, to get closer to the one person she hates more than anyone, she is determined to steal back Shad’s soul. Shad is worth any risk, any pain that she will have to endure.
She will save him, no matter the cost.
Not only were her parents murdered before her eyes, her best friend was beaten, the boy she loved had his soul taken, but she also had to come to terms with her new identity as a princess from a planet where peoples’ souls actually sing. But Emma’s newest problem—how to save the boy she loved before there was nothing left to save—felt entirely impossible to overcome.
Yes, it is a lot for any teenager to deal with. If she had her Shad, not the soulless boy who looked like him at her side, she knew nothing would be too much for her to handle. However, when Cadian shows up at her school, Emma adds him to her lengthy list of problems. She tries to keep away from him, but with Shad’s melody inside of Cadian, it makes everything more complicated. The hatred she harbors for him starts to change. Is he playing a game? Or is it possible that when he has a soul, he isn't as evil as she once believed him to be?
Emma knows that time is running out for Shad. Forced to go against everything she holds dear, to get closer to the one person she hates more than anyone, she is determined to steal back Shad’s soul. Shad is worth any risk, any pain that she will have to endure.
She will save him, no matter the cost.
- GenresFantasy
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2020
12 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 10, 2025
I absolutely loved entering back into this world and continuing Emma and Shad's story! It picks up right where the last one left off which if you've read it you know it left on a kind of mean cliffhanger and what happens in this book gets worse before it gets better. (In a makes it an interesting plot kind of way 😉)
It is a little slow at first and I want to mention that I feel like Emma's inner monologue is a bit repetitive in the beginning and I only say this because I know repetition bothers some and so I want to let you know it gets so much better and is worth continuing! And then towards the end of the book, wow does it get going! So much happens, it's heart pounding and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
I really enjoyed how this one explored more of Emma's melody and how their magic works. Emma also had to overcome a lot of hate and darkness. She fights hard to what she believes in and for those she loves. Same as the last story I love how real Emma is, she's not perfect, she doesn't always do what she should, she's stubborn, at times irrational, but she continues fighting, she learns and grows, and loves deeply.
I love all the different characters, Ryker is Emma's best friend and he is amazing. He protects and loves Emma through thick and thin. Mary her aunt is very caring and sweet but takes a bit of a step back in this story but is still vital in Emma's life. Ash is newer to the story and she's awesome. She is exactly what Emma needs in a friend. She also has her own revealed secrets. Keil who is Shad's "uncle" helps to train Emma in her magic abilities and they're allies in holding out hope for Shad. Then there is Cade, he plays a pretty big role in this story, for me personally I was back and forth between disliking him to feeling bad and felt he's just misunderstood. But he definitely makes all their lives more difficult. And of course there is Shad who is slowly becoming less himself and the main plot is figuring out how to save him. I can't wait to see where all of these characters go from here and what happens in future books!
Overall I really enjoyed the story, the plot, the high stakes, the relationships, and this one ended on a much smaller cliffhanger lol but I'm still very excited to see what happens next!
*I received an arc copy from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own*
Content: No-Spice/ passionate kisses, some more handsy moments, and suggestive comments, a few mild swear words, grief, feelings of hatred and thoughts of death, some mild violence.
It is a little slow at first and I want to mention that I feel like Emma's inner monologue is a bit repetitive in the beginning and I only say this because I know repetition bothers some and so I want to let you know it gets so much better and is worth continuing! And then towards the end of the book, wow does it get going! So much happens, it's heart pounding and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
I really enjoyed how this one explored more of Emma's melody and how their magic works. Emma also had to overcome a lot of hate and darkness. She fights hard to what she believes in and for those she loves. Same as the last story I love how real Emma is, she's not perfect, she doesn't always do what she should, she's stubborn, at times irrational, but she continues fighting, she learns and grows, and loves deeply.
I love all the different characters, Ryker is Emma's best friend and he is amazing. He protects and loves Emma through thick and thin. Mary her aunt is very caring and sweet but takes a bit of a step back in this story but is still vital in Emma's life. Ash is newer to the story and she's awesome. She is exactly what Emma needs in a friend. She also has her own revealed secrets. Keil who is Shad's "uncle" helps to train Emma in her magic abilities and they're allies in holding out hope for Shad. Then there is Cade, he plays a pretty big role in this story, for me personally I was back and forth between disliking him to feeling bad and felt he's just misunderstood. But he definitely makes all their lives more difficult. And of course there is Shad who is slowly becoming less himself and the main plot is figuring out how to save him. I can't wait to see where all of these characters go from here and what happens in future books!
Overall I really enjoyed the story, the plot, the high stakes, the relationships, and this one ended on a much smaller cliffhanger lol but I'm still very excited to see what happens next!
*I received an arc copy from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own*
Content: No-Spice/ passionate kisses, some more handsy moments, and suggestive comments, a few mild swear words, grief, feelings of hatred and thoughts of death, some mild violence.
February 6, 2021
My full review can be read here: bit.ly/2YW6xR3
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨. 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰.”
Seeing as this is the sequel to The Heir, I'm not going to say too much (which is hard, because I talk a lot) about the book because of those sneaky little things called SPOILERS. I will say, however, that I loved Shattered Heir even MORE than the first book! It picked up right where The Heir left off, which was SO nice—I'm glad there wasn't any kind of major time skip between the books. But. Y'all. Shad not having his soul and watching Emma suffer while trying to save him was just straight up heart-wrenching. I could feel her pain throughout the story as she clung to whatever hope she had left. 😭😭
And maybe this wrong, but I loved how Cadian's role in the book complicated things. Even though he's considered the "bad guy," it was interesting to see how he complicated Emma's plans in a way she wasn't necessarily expecting. Cadian just had me feeling TORN, y'all! His character had such a dark backstory that brokeeee my heart, but I also know that he handled a lot of things wrong. Dangggg, this is so hard to do without spoilers, lol! Just know that Cadian is a very complex character, and I would really love for him to have some kind of redemption.
If you thought I was going to write this review and NOT mention my boy, Ryker...you're crazy. Although in some ways it felt like Ryker took a backseat in the book, there DEFINITELY was a lot of MAJOR stuff that happened involving him (and Emma, of course). Stuff that I can't tell you because...SPOILERS. Sighs. Let's just say that I'm still #TeamRyker. I do love Shad though, and Cade managed to snag my attention, but it's Ryker. He's my main dude, lol. Swooning was never optional.
As far as content goes: No language! Intimate/passionate moments diddddd occur, the romance/attraction between the characters was definitely strong, and there was more making out in this book compared to the first book...but nothing beyond that (well, except for a guy—I refuseeee to say who—taking his shirt off). Grief, anxiety, depression, bitterness, and anger are some of the major feelings that are experienced and talked about. I personally wasn't triggered by any of this, but other readers might be...so please take that into consideration. There was a darker side to the souls/melodies concept (darker than the first book), but nothing too dark.
I really loved how this book focused more on the dark and light side of Terra's magic, as well as the dark and light side of several different characters. The biggest takeaway I got from the book, was the overall message that we can either let darkness overcome us...thinking we're more powerful from it (although it'll actually just weaken us) or we can cling to lightness...and truly become powerful from it as we thrive and let go of anger and bitterness.
All this to say, I'm even moreeeee excited for Cade's novella andddd THE FINAL BOOKKKKKK!!
“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨. 𝘋𝘢𝘳𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴𝘯’𝘵 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰.”
Seeing as this is the sequel to The Heir, I'm not going to say too much (which is hard, because I talk a lot) about the book because of those sneaky little things called SPOILERS. I will say, however, that I loved Shattered Heir even MORE than the first book! It picked up right where The Heir left off, which was SO nice—I'm glad there wasn't any kind of major time skip between the books. But. Y'all. Shad not having his soul and watching Emma suffer while trying to save him was just straight up heart-wrenching. I could feel her pain throughout the story as she clung to whatever hope she had left. 😭😭
And maybe this wrong, but I loved how Cadian's role in the book complicated things. Even though he's considered the "bad guy," it was interesting to see how he complicated Emma's plans in a way she wasn't necessarily expecting. Cadian just had me feeling TORN, y'all! His character had such a dark backstory that brokeeee my heart, but I also know that he handled a lot of things wrong. Dangggg, this is so hard to do without spoilers, lol! Just know that Cadian is a very complex character, and I would really love for him to have some kind of redemption.
If you thought I was going to write this review and NOT mention my boy, Ryker...you're crazy. Although in some ways it felt like Ryker took a backseat in the book, there DEFINITELY was a lot of MAJOR stuff that happened involving him (and Emma, of course). Stuff that I can't tell you because...SPOILERS. Sighs. Let's just say that I'm still #TeamRyker. I do love Shad though, and Cade managed to snag my attention, but it's Ryker. He's my main dude, lol. Swooning was never optional.
As far as content goes: No language! Intimate/passionate moments diddddd occur, the romance/attraction between the characters was definitely strong, and there was more making out in this book compared to the first book...but nothing beyond that (well, except for a guy—I refuseeee to say who—taking his shirt off). Grief, anxiety, depression, bitterness, and anger are some of the major feelings that are experienced and talked about. I personally wasn't triggered by any of this, but other readers might be...so please take that into consideration. There was a darker side to the souls/melodies concept (darker than the first book), but nothing too dark.
I really loved how this book focused more on the dark and light side of Terra's magic, as well as the dark and light side of several different characters. The biggest takeaway I got from the book, was the overall message that we can either let darkness overcome us...thinking we're more powerful from it (although it'll actually just weaken us) or we can cling to lightness...and truly become powerful from it as we thrive and let go of anger and bitterness.
All this to say, I'm even moreeeee excited for Cade's novella andddd THE FINAL BOOKKKKKK!!
May 7, 2025
This story plot got significantly darker than book one. Its not by any means but just more somber material.
I didn't like the turn on Shad's personality but honestly I should have expected it? I mean....iykyk what he went through at the end of book 1 but just didn't see it going that direction haha
BUT I was surprised how intrigued I was by Cade and the shenanigans he was up top lol
Emma was fighting an inner struggle between her light and dark sides of her emotions and it felt well represented. I just didn't like the talk of wanting to be dead over a boy 😅
That was my main issue with her but otherwise I was right there, hooked seeing if she'd fine her way back to her true love or.....was she going for her other 2 options? hehe
This one had a better ending than book 1! but still left us unsure on how it all turns out to looking forward to seeing where this journey takes Emma next 😄
I didn't like the turn on Shad's personality but honestly I should have expected it? I mean....iykyk what he went through at the end of book 1 but just didn't see it going that direction haha
BUT I was surprised how intrigued I was by Cade and the shenanigans he was up top lol
Emma was fighting an inner struggle between her light and dark sides of her emotions and it felt well represented. I just didn't like the talk of wanting to be dead over a boy 😅
That was my main issue with her but otherwise I was right there, hooked seeing if she'd fine her way back to her true love or.....was she going for her other 2 options? hehe
This one had a better ending than book 1! but still left us unsure on how it all turns out to looking forward to seeing where this journey takes Emma next 😄
December 10, 2020
Emma's story continues with the fight to save the one she loves. Full of conflict and doubt, she does all she can to keep her head above water. I loved the support network Emma had around her and the battles that she faces, never alone. The book felt slow to start for me but the end is worth it all. I'm looking forward to reading the next adventure!
May 9, 2025
Shattered Heir, is book 2 in “The Heir” series.
Already being a fan of Kayla’s writing style, this book, like many of hers, is an easy to read, page turning book. And one that’ll keep you guessing and wanting to know more! For those wondering about the genre, this is more modern day/ contemporary than her Enchanted Kingdoms series (that’s all about Terra and all the retellings, and I HIGHLY recommend!!) so this series is sort of the descendants of the relationships formed in the Enchanted Kingdoms series, & it’s considered a fantasy portal romance.
Kayla’s book series are great for teens, YA, and adults of any age! Plus, they are family friendly as her work is considered clean romance, but has just the right swoon worthy balance.
This one will have you feeling all sorts of ways! Just like Emma, the more that unfolds and the more history she finds out– the more emotional you’ll become!
I love how the book started where the last one had ended, because the cliffhanger at the end of book one was rough, you guys!! I NEEDED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT!
It left us wanting to know more and the sequel couldn’t have came at a better time! Emma had just found out such shocking and traumatic news…and then had to witness all that went down between Cade, Shad, and Ryker in the ending of book 1 (I’m trying to keep it mostly spoiler free), and now she’s got not just one, not two, but 3 boys who seek her attention. I’m personally still team RYKER! Something bout Shad has been kinda sus for me *shifty eyes* 👀, but I haven’t placed it yet.
Then the other…well, the other one is a difficult situation. Because it’s like it’s him, but not the real him? So….its crazy?!
Anyway-
I cannot wait to read more and to get back to Ryker’s novella (which I interrupted to read this one), but I could tell it was gonna be binge worthy and hold some very wanted answers!
Already being a fan of Kayla’s writing style, this book, like many of hers, is an easy to read, page turning book. And one that’ll keep you guessing and wanting to know more! For those wondering about the genre, this is more modern day/ contemporary than her Enchanted Kingdoms series (that’s all about Terra and all the retellings, and I HIGHLY recommend!!) so this series is sort of the descendants of the relationships formed in the Enchanted Kingdoms series, & it’s considered a fantasy portal romance.
Kayla’s book series are great for teens, YA, and adults of any age! Plus, they are family friendly as her work is considered clean romance, but has just the right swoon worthy balance.
This one will have you feeling all sorts of ways! Just like Emma, the more that unfolds and the more history she finds out– the more emotional you’ll become!
I love how the book started where the last one had ended, because the cliffhanger at the end of book one was rough, you guys!! I NEEDED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENED NEXT!
It left us wanting to know more and the sequel couldn’t have came at a better time! Emma had just found out such shocking and traumatic news…and then had to witness all that went down between Cade, Shad, and Ryker in the ending of book 1 (I’m trying to keep it mostly spoiler free), and now she’s got not just one, not two, but 3 boys who seek her attention. I’m personally still team RYKER! Something bout Shad has been kinda sus for me *shifty eyes* 👀, but I haven’t placed it yet.
Then the other…well, the other one is a difficult situation. Because it’s like it’s him, but not the real him? So….its crazy?!
Anyway-
I cannot wait to read more and to get back to Ryker’s novella (which I interrupted to read this one), but I could tell it was gonna be binge worthy and hold some very wanted answers!
May 2, 2025
The second in The Heir series is here! Oh my goodness, after the cliffhanger of the first book I was on the edge of my seat for this one.
I felt so bad for Emma! It was just one thing after another! She was grappling with the aftershocks of learning about her parents’ murder, saving Ryder, and losing Shad’s soul. Her emotions were all over the place. Emma was super emotional, but made sense for her character. She was just a teenager hearing so much for the first time. Sometimes it was a bit overwhelming even to read! I loved getting to see her relationships with the Terreans grow and for her to learn more about her heritage. Emma had to start to face her own anger and how she would respond to all that was happening in her life.
I am so invested in Emma’s story and learning how her heritage fits with the world of Terra. However, I also loved getting to know more of the other characters! Cade was a really interesting character and it was intriguing to learn more about him. I want to see his story too! Keil is also quickly becoming one of my favorites! I loved his constant support of Shad and his willingness to help Emma. I also felt like I understand Ryker more after his novella and was enjoying seeing more of him in this book!
I was really thankful that there was no major cliffhanger this book, but it still was not enough of a conclusion! I am so excited for the next story! I would recommend this to teens and up who enjoy portal fantasy and emotionally driven stories. There is some passionate kissing, prior death of family members, and distress.
I received an ARC
I felt so bad for Emma! It was just one thing after another! She was grappling with the aftershocks of learning about her parents’ murder, saving Ryder, and losing Shad’s soul. Her emotions were all over the place. Emma was super emotional, but made sense for her character. She was just a teenager hearing so much for the first time. Sometimes it was a bit overwhelming even to read! I loved getting to see her relationships with the Terreans grow and for her to learn more about her heritage. Emma had to start to face her own anger and how she would respond to all that was happening in her life.
I am so invested in Emma’s story and learning how her heritage fits with the world of Terra. However, I also loved getting to know more of the other characters! Cade was a really interesting character and it was intriguing to learn more about him. I want to see his story too! Keil is also quickly becoming one of my favorites! I loved his constant support of Shad and his willingness to help Emma. I also felt like I understand Ryker more after his novella and was enjoying seeing more of him in this book!
I was really thankful that there was no major cliffhanger this book, but it still was not enough of a conclusion! I am so excited for the next story! I would recommend this to teens and up who enjoy portal fantasy and emotionally driven stories. There is some passionate kissing, prior death of family members, and distress.
I received an ARC
April 24, 2025
This was a good YA fantasy.
Twilight and vampire diaries vibes but with princes and knights.
I will be honest.I like kayla Eshbaugh's fairytale romances a bit better. This was still a really good book. I can see older teens really enjoying this series.
I was on the ARC team for the first book and of course I Had to join this one too!
I will admit I was a little put off at the beginning with some of the descritpion of hatried. I liked the imagery of it being described like a caged animal, but when Emma showed some animalistic behaviors, I was a little meh. That is just a small thing, though.
I will admit, I wasn't the biggest fan of Shad in the first book and I am still kind of meh about him. There really isn't anything wrong with him, I just prefer Ryker! I think Shad is nice and a gentleman, but I feel like we are going to find out there is more to him than we know when the next book comes out.
Honestly, I kind of like Cade! I know he is supposed to be the bad guy, but who doesn't love a tortured soul. I kind of have my theories about him, but I will keep them quiet until the next book comes out to see if I am correct.
The cliffhanger ending was fun and now I want to know what happens - who is it (I am guessing Ryker) what's the urgency?
I know what I might do, but I know that isn't going to be what happens! I am looking forward to the next book and seeing how the story ends.
I am hoping for happy endings for Ash and Ryker and all of my favorite side characters : )
Thank you for letting me on the ARC team! I very much enjoyed this story.
Twilight and vampire diaries vibes but with princes and knights.
I will be honest.I like kayla Eshbaugh's fairytale romances a bit better. This was still a really good book. I can see older teens really enjoying this series.
I was on the ARC team for the first book and of course I Had to join this one too!
I will admit I was a little put off at the beginning with some of the descritpion of hatried. I liked the imagery of it being described like a caged animal, but when Emma showed some animalistic behaviors, I was a little meh. That is just a small thing, though.
I will admit, I wasn't the biggest fan of Shad in the first book and I am still kind of meh about him. There really isn't anything wrong with him, I just prefer Ryker! I think Shad is nice and a gentleman, but I feel like we are going to find out there is more to him than we know when the next book comes out.
Honestly, I kind of like Cade! I know he is supposed to be the bad guy, but who doesn't love a tortured soul. I kind of have my theories about him, but I will keep them quiet until the next book comes out to see if I am correct.
The cliffhanger ending was fun and now I want to know what happens - who is it (I am guessing Ryker) what's the urgency?
I know what I might do, but I know that isn't going to be what happens! I am looking forward to the next book and seeing how the story ends.
I am hoping for happy endings for Ash and Ryker and all of my favorite side characters : )
Thank you for letting me on the ARC team! I very much enjoyed this story.
May 6, 2025
I received an ARC copy from the author (so thankful for the opportunity) however the thoughts and opinions are my own.
So quick note before I start my review. After I read this book I understood who the male character on the cover is!
Anyways, this book was even better than the first! One thing I struggle with, with some books is if there is an insta love where I don't quite understand why the characters fell in love. I like to see the personalities, the interactions, and the reasons as to why the characters fell in love with each other. This was something I definitely had an issue with in the first book because I didn't see enough of Shad to understand why Emma fell in love with him other than they appeared to be fated. However, in this book I actually like kind of seeing a different Shad because then I saw kind of the reasons Emma fell in love. I definitely hope to have more interactions (deeper level ones) in the next book but this helped me a bit more!
I am definitely hooked on this story and where it is going to go! Emma definitely surprised me with how far she was willing with some things and I loved that! I love that was wasn't too naive or just perfect to be that kind of person. It made her a bit more real to me.
One thing I would have really loved were more detailed scenes when it came to her training. The melody concept is fascinating but by the end of the book I could tell she had learned and been taught more than I, as a reader, could see and so I would have loved those scenes instead of them being cut short or just mentioned.
Overall I am very pleased with this book and I am beyond excited for the next one!
So quick note before I start my review. After I read this book I understood who the male character on the cover is!
Anyways, this book was even better than the first! One thing I struggle with, with some books is if there is an insta love where I don't quite understand why the characters fell in love. I like to see the personalities, the interactions, and the reasons as to why the characters fell in love with each other. This was something I definitely had an issue with in the first book because I didn't see enough of Shad to understand why Emma fell in love with him other than they appeared to be fated. However, in this book I actually like kind of seeing a different Shad because then I saw kind of the reasons Emma fell in love. I definitely hope to have more interactions (deeper level ones) in the next book but this helped me a bit more!
I am definitely hooked on this story and where it is going to go! Emma definitely surprised me with how far she was willing with some things and I loved that! I love that was wasn't too naive or just perfect to be that kind of person. It made her a bit more real to me.
One thing I would have really loved were more detailed scenes when it came to her training. The melody concept is fascinating but by the end of the book I could tell she had learned and been taught more than I, as a reader, could see and so I would have loved those scenes instead of them being cut short or just mentioned.
Overall I am very pleased with this book and I am beyond excited for the next one!
May 6, 2025
First off you have to read the first one because it picks up right where it left off. With Emma questioning who she wants to be. Not only 2 characters are fighting for her attention. You see so much more in this book and of course its not done because there is more to the series. I love that you got to see a different side of Cade. As stated she does clean romance some kissing and making out scenes. So spice free but still that vibe of Romance and Fantasy. I for one cant wait to continue to read on. I recommend to read this series. Character Emma, Ryker, and Shad have made this a very memorable book. The ending just makes me all that much more invested in this series. I am glad its not over there is more coming. I need the next one like today.
"I want to be the best friend that you- that you fall hopelessly, desperately, and madly in love with, as much as I am hopelessly, desperately, and madly in love with you."
But what I felt for Ryker wasn't the same as what I felt for Shad. I loved them both, but not in the same way.
Maybe just one little kiss wouldn't hurt.
"No matter what I have done or what I do, please remember that I love you and only you, forever." he whispered, and then the next second his lips were on mine, and I was melting.
"I want to be the best friend that you- that you fall hopelessly, desperately, and madly in love with, as much as I am hopelessly, desperately, and madly in love with you."
But what I felt for Ryker wasn't the same as what I felt for Shad. I loved them both, but not in the same way.
Maybe just one little kiss wouldn't hurt.
"No matter what I have done or what I do, please remember that I love you and only you, forever." he whispered, and then the next second his lips were on mine, and I was melting.
November 18, 2020
𝗪𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗮 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹?
I wasn't and I didn't know clean books were even a thing either. School required reads had violence and language so I thought was all YA books. Wow was I wrong!! Wish I could tell 15 year old me "There are Clean Books and authors that care!"
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐫: 𝐀 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
(𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟐)
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐄𝐬𝐡𝐛𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐍𝐨𝐯.𝟏𝟕
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: 𝐘𝐀 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞/ 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲
Kayla Eshbaugh is one of those authors.
She currently has out two childeren books, and this YA series. Her books are full of magic, some mystery and lots of kisses. No worries it stays in the clean scale. I am really looking forward to the next book! Now this is book two so can't talk about it with out spoilers. I will have the synopsis of The Heir (book 1) in the comments.
💜𝚈𝙰
💜𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
💜𝙵𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚜𝚢
💜𝚁𝚘𝚢𝚊𝚕𝚝𝚢
💜𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚙
If these buzz words catch your attention I recommend checking The Heir Series out!
I wasn't and I didn't know clean books were even a thing either. School required reads had violence and language so I thought was all YA books. Wow was I wrong!! Wish I could tell 15 year old me "There are Clean Books and authors that care!"
𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐫: 𝐀 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞
(𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝟐)
𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫: 𝐊𝐚𝐲𝐥𝐚 𝐄𝐬𝐡𝐛𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡
𝐏𝐮𝐛 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞: 𝐍𝐨𝐯.𝟏𝟕
𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐫𝐞: 𝐘𝐀 𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞/ 𝐅𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲
Kayla Eshbaugh is one of those authors.
She currently has out two childeren books, and this YA series. Her books are full of magic, some mystery and lots of kisses. No worries it stays in the clean scale. I am really looking forward to the next book! Now this is book two so can't talk about it with out spoilers. I will have the synopsis of The Heir (book 1) in the comments.
💜𝚈𝙰
💜𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
💜𝙵𝚊𝚗𝚝𝚊𝚜𝚢
💜𝚁𝚘𝚢𝚊𝚕𝚝𝚢
💜𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜𝚑𝚒𝚙
If these buzz words catch your attention I recommend checking The Heir Series out!
May 4, 2025
Shattered Heir picks up right after the events in The Heir. I became even more invested in Emma’s journey as the story progressed. The plots twists put me through a loop! Emma grew a lot throughout this book as she learns more about Terra and her melody. I liked learning more about Shad’s past and getting his perceptive from his memories. Ryker is still one of my favorite characters. His loyalty and “knightly-ness” to Emma
was amiable. Their friendship is heartwarming and endearing. Although, there were times when reading I wished Emma would forget Shad and go for Ryker.
Cade surprised me in this story. We got to see a different side to him. Also, I found the snarky banter between him and Emma quite hilarious. The romance is spice free with quite of a few kissing/makeout scenes. After the ending, I cannot wait for the next book because I want to know what happens next!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
was amiable. Their friendship is heartwarming and endearing. Although, there were times when reading I wished Emma would forget Shad and go for Ryker.
Cade surprised me in this story. We got to see a different side to him. Also, I found the snarky banter between him and Emma quite hilarious. The romance is spice free with quite of a few kissing/makeout scenes. After the ending, I cannot wait for the next book because I want to know what happens next!
I volunteered to read an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
April 25, 2025
This book starts right where book 1 leaves off and sets a theme that’s a bit darker. Emma has been through so much and it really feels like it’s taken its toll. Emma is faced with the question of who she wants to be. You can see her feeling like, do I give in to the dark or do I chose to be the light. Her struggle isn’t only with trying to save Shad. She’s also faced with 2 other characters that are fighting for her affection. That’s where things get a little sticky. You learn more as Emma sees things about Cadian. The villain line is now blurred as this new information comes to light and it made me want to know more about him. I really want Cadian to have a redemption arc.
The ending was griping and held me. I am excited to continue the series and see what happens.
I read the free e-arc and am leaving my honest opinion.
The ending was griping and held me. I am excited to continue the series and see what happens.
I read the free e-arc and am leaving my honest opinion.
April 30, 2025
I don’t think I’ve ever hated the end of a book this much—not because it was bad, but because it ended. That cliffhanger? Absolutely brutal.
This story is a heart-wrenching mix of pain, resilience, and hope—even when hope seems impossible. We watch Emma push herself to the brink, growing stronger in every way just for the chance to save Shad. Even when the odds are stacked against her and everyone says it’s hopeless, she keeps chasing even the tiniest sliver of a way forward.
Their bond is so powerful and beautifully written—it broke my heart to watch them be torn apart. I missed the real Shad deeply, and catching only glimpses of him through the book had me ugly crying. I can’t even begin to imagine what Emma must be feeling.
All in all, this book was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. I need the next one ASAP!
This story is a heart-wrenching mix of pain, resilience, and hope—even when hope seems impossible. We watch Emma push herself to the brink, growing stronger in every way just for the chance to save Shad. Even when the odds are stacked against her and everyone says it’s hopeless, she keeps chasing even the tiniest sliver of a way forward.
Their bond is so powerful and beautifully written—it broke my heart to watch them be torn apart. I missed the real Shad deeply, and catching only glimpses of him through the book had me ugly crying. I can’t even begin to imagine what Emma must be feeling.
All in all, this book was an emotional rollercoaster in the best way possible. I need the next one ASAP!
November 17, 2020
I loved this book! I had been dying to find out what happens next after reading the first book in this series and book 2 did not disappoint! It was just as great of a read as the first book was. It was full of excitement and magic and left me wanting more. A wonderful continuation of the story that I have grown to love. You feel like you are in the story and a part of the characters lives as you read! That’s how you know it’s a well written book! I highly recommend this book and the entire series. You won’t be disappointed! I already can’t wait for the next book to come out! I’m hooked!
November 19, 2020
I love The Heir Series, I really do. It’s rare that you can find a GOOD sweet and innocent clean romance series that is also fantasy! But Kayla Eshbaugh has pulled it off and every book in the series only. Gets. Better! Again, something kind of rare! Emma has grown on me, becoming so much more complex, and ahhh just all the books in this series keep me flipping through the pages fast and this was no exception 😍
May 1, 2025
This is the second urban fantasy by Kayla Eshbaugh and what a ride it was! While reading this I kept worrying about Emma as she tried to save Shad after he had his soul taken by Cade. She also had to try to keep away from the latter which is hard since he has Shad’s memory inside him. I was on the edge of my seat until the end and was surprised upon finding out the recent state of the kingdoms of Terra! Now I am dying to read book three!
May 13, 2025
I love anything Kayla Eshbaugh writes. This series definitely opened a new world for no spice romances for me. It connects with the other books and Kayla just really knows how to draw you in. I always get so giddy whenever she releases a new book. The way her male lead characters make me swoon and I just want to befriend her female leads. Amazing job! I will always recommend Kayla's books.
November 17, 2020
This is such a fun series that hooks you from the very begining. Kayla is so good at invoking emotion in her characters and I love the magic elements throughout! Shattered Heir was just as good as the first one and I can't wait for the next in the series!
May 20, 2025
This book picks right up after book one, which I greatly appreciated! This book continues to be just as good (if not better) than book one. Recommend this book for fantasy lovers that enjoy an easy read
November 17, 2020
This was such a good follow up to the first book! And even though there's still so much more to figure out, I'm so happy with the ending!
April 28, 2024
hope
Even through the dark times, I kept hoping. I went down the rabbit holes of what if… but thankfully my hope blossomed like a beautiful rose.
Even through the dark times, I kept hoping. I went down the rabbit holes of what if… but thankfully my hope blossomed like a beautiful rose.
June 17, 2025
I loved this book! I loved the characters and the plot! I had a hard time putting this wonderful book down! I will be reading the next book in this wonderful series!
May 6, 2025
This is second in The Heir series. Highly recommend reading The Heir first before starting this. I was so excited for this after reading the first one. It ends on a cliffhanger so I’m glad I started these after they both had already been written. Waiting for book two would have driven me crazy otherwise.
This was just as good if not better than The Heir. Such a nail biting cozy read. I couldn’t read it fast enough! This series will hook you!
Our favorite characters are back again with a few new faces. Emma and Shad are as cute as ever. His selflessness trying to save Emma is heart melting. She does her best to try to save him in return. I love their relationship. Ryker is as protective as ever.
The plot thickens and progresses from book one. A few questions answered. More questions revealed. Mystery, suspense, adventure, trials. I couldn’t put this book down for wanting to know how it ended (especially after book one).
Overall enjoyable read geared more towards teens, but enjoyable for young at heart as well.
Read if you enjoy:
💫 portal fantasy
💫 teen coming of age
💫 mystery
💫 stolen melody
💫 Twilight vibes (but 100xs better)
💫 hidden identity
💫 twins
💫 evil twin
💫 soul mates
💫 sacrificing for love
💫 highschool setting
Strong language: none
Spice: one kissing scene where the guys shirt comes off but nothing past that.
Violence: talk of car accident, kidnapping, drugging.
This was just as good if not better than The Heir. Such a nail biting cozy read. I couldn’t read it fast enough! This series will hook you!
Our favorite characters are back again with a few new faces. Emma and Shad are as cute as ever. His selflessness trying to save Emma is heart melting. She does her best to try to save him in return. I love their relationship. Ryker is as protective as ever.
The plot thickens and progresses from book one. A few questions answered. More questions revealed. Mystery, suspense, adventure, trials. I couldn’t put this book down for wanting to know how it ended (especially after book one).
Overall enjoyable read geared more towards teens, but enjoyable for young at heart as well.
Read if you enjoy:
💫 portal fantasy
💫 teen coming of age
💫 mystery
💫 stolen melody
💫 Twilight vibes (but 100xs better)
💫 hidden identity
💫 twins
💫 evil twin
💫 soul mates
💫 sacrificing for love
💫 highschool setting
Strong language: none
Spice: one kissing scene where the guys shirt comes off but nothing past that.
Violence: talk of car accident, kidnapping, drugging.
June 23, 2025
3.25⭐️ ARC Review: I had high hopes that this one would improve from the first. In some ways it did, such as the author’s writing, but it mostly felt the exact same as the first book. It suffered from second book syndrome.
Absolutely nothing happened. At the end of book one something HUGE happens, and for the entirety of this book they decide to go back to school, cause that’s normal after a huge traumatic event. Not! It’s almost like it didn’t happen, and they went on with their lives. Like what? It just felt very bizarre. I think the author could have very very easily done this series in 2 books. Because, like I said, nothing happened.
The characters were still very immature, obviously, they are teenagers. But I mean come on. Let’s stop saying I’m in love with him and I hate him over and over and over for the entirety of Emma’s internal monologue.
I don’t have any interest in seeing what happens to these characters. I think it’s safe to say I won’t be reading the next book.
With all of that said, it is not the worst book I’ve ever read. It’s just not for me. I think teenagers would eat this up.
*Thank you to the author, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
Absolutely nothing happened. At the end of book one something HUGE happens, and for the entirety of this book they decide to go back to school, cause that’s normal after a huge traumatic event. Not! It’s almost like it didn’t happen, and they went on with their lives. Like what? It just felt very bizarre. I think the author could have very very easily done this series in 2 books. Because, like I said, nothing happened.
The characters were still very immature, obviously, they are teenagers. But I mean come on. Let’s stop saying I’m in love with him and I hate him over and over and over for the entirety of Emma’s internal monologue.
I don’t have any interest in seeing what happens to these characters. I think it’s safe to say I won’t be reading the next book.
With all of that said, it is not the worst book I’ve ever read. It’s just not for me. I think teenagers would eat this up.
*Thank you to the author, for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Content 💋:
- Kisses only
- No language
February 7, 2021
Great read, easy to follow! It makes you seeking for more with the turn of every page! Emma isn’t your typical teen! And neither are her friends. I read as if I’m in the story watching what will happen next!
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