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Heir of Ashes #2
Master of Flames
She is the Heir of ashes. She will rise.
Phoenix Ashburn has become her own worst nightmare - the Heir to the vampire Coven. Adjusting to life as a vampire in the spotlight proves to be much more difficult than Phoenix ever could have imagined; grave reminders of her human life and her growing attraction to Coven Master Dorian Sterling haunt her at every turn.
When Dorian’s reign as Master is threatened by the Runner Institution, Phoenix is caught between her loyalty to the Coven and her longing for the life she could have lived.
Both Dorian and the Runner Institution offer Phoenix everything she has ever wanted - blood and glory. In this gripping conclusion to the Heir of Ashes duology, Phoenix will have to decide what means more to her… Dorian… or absolute power.
Phoenix Ashburn has become her own worst nightmare - the Heir to the vampire Coven. Adjusting to life as a vampire in the spotlight proves to be much more difficult than Phoenix ever could have imagined; grave reminders of her human life and her growing attraction to Coven Master Dorian Sterling haunt her at every turn.
When Dorian’s reign as Master is threatened by the Runner Institution, Phoenix is caught between her loyalty to the Coven and her longing for the life she could have lived.
Both Dorian and the Runner Institution offer Phoenix everything she has ever wanted - blood and glory. In this gripping conclusion to the Heir of Ashes duology, Phoenix will have to decide what means more to her… Dorian… or absolute power.
314 pages, Paperback
Published October 4, 2022
10 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
H.M. Darling
12 books58 followersH.M. Darling is a new adult indie author that lives and burns in Arizona with her scrooge of a cat named Tobey. She has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and Creative Writing. She writes books full of morally gray characters, villainous love interests, and tops it all off with lots of spice!
When she is not writing, you can usually find her collecting houseplants, listening to Taylor Swift, or reading a book from her never-ending TBR list.
When she is not writing, you can usually find her collecting houseplants, listening to Taylor Swift, or reading a book from her never-ending TBR list.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 6, 2022
I had so many mixed emotions reading this book. I loved it, and hated it, and wanted to throw it. It was a roller coaster.
I think this was a great way to end this story. It made sense, and I couldn’t see it ending any other way.
Unfortunately I seen the ending coming from a mile away, while it was an ending that made sense, I just would have loved to see some sort of twist or something. Nonetheless, I did really enjoy this book!
I have the same complaint from the first book, as much as I love Phoenix and Dorian, their relationship just felt like it came too easy. No matter what he did, she would just forgive him and fall straight into bed, I just would have loved to see a bit more depth to their relationship.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
I think this was a great way to end this story. It made sense, and I couldn’t see it ending any other way.
Unfortunately I seen the ending coming from a mile away, while it was an ending that made sense, I just would have loved to see some sort of twist or something. Nonetheless, I did really enjoy this book!
I have the same complaint from the first book, as much as I love Phoenix and Dorian, their relationship just felt like it came too easy. No matter what he did, she would just forgive him and fall straight into bed, I just would have loved to see a bit more depth to their relationship.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review.
September 16, 2022
***Spoiler-Free ARC Reader Review***
I was fortunate enough to not only receive an ARC copy of this book, but to have also been a beta reader. It was incredible to see how the story of Phoenix and Dorian developed from Heir of Ashes through Master of Flames. H.M. Darling is unbelievably talented in what she does! It’s the perfect mix of spice and story. It’s sexy. It’s daring. It everything I could want in a story!
I’m often disappointed by sequel books, but that is 100% NOT the case with Master of Flames. Dare I say that I enjoyed the sequel more! I was amazed to see Phoenix so vividly grow into such a powerful villain. I got all the feels with this one. It was such a rollercoaster of emotions and I couldn’t be happier to have been along on that ride!
The book kept my attention from start to finish, and I literally couldn’t put it down. The ending, let me say, is just wow. I’m at a loss for words to describe the amount of emotions I went through while reading it!
Master of Flames is such a powerful book written by such an amazing and powerful author! I would be lying if I said I wasn’t sad that we are saying goodbye to Phoenix and Dorian’s story, but I also can’t wait to see more and more written by H.M. Darling in the future!
I was fortunate enough to not only receive an ARC copy of this book, but to have also been a beta reader. It was incredible to see how the story of Phoenix and Dorian developed from Heir of Ashes through Master of Flames. H.M. Darling is unbelievably talented in what she does! It’s the perfect mix of spice and story. It’s sexy. It’s daring. It everything I could want in a story!
I’m often disappointed by sequel books, but that is 100% NOT the case with Master of Flames. Dare I say that I enjoyed the sequel more! I was amazed to see Phoenix so vividly grow into such a powerful villain. I got all the feels with this one. It was such a rollercoaster of emotions and I couldn’t be happier to have been along on that ride!
The book kept my attention from start to finish, and I literally couldn’t put it down. The ending, let me say, is just wow. I’m at a loss for words to describe the amount of emotions I went through while reading it!
Master of Flames is such a powerful book written by such an amazing and powerful author! I would be lying if I said I wasn’t sad that we are saying goodbye to Phoenix and Dorian’s story, but I also can’t wait to see more and more written by H.M. Darling in the future!
September 21, 2022
Let me start off by saying I was an ARC reader for this novel.
So I just finished, literally moments ago, I arc read the first book and was beyond thrilled to get this one. I will tell you— the ending was so good, I teared up—who am I kidding, I’m sobbing. This author! She is entering the world of writing like a force. I will literally buy anything she releases from here on out.
Some Spoilers ahead: (only up to about 25% of novel)
The story picks of only weeks after the first one ends. Phoenix is now a Vampire and one of the most powerful ones in the world. She now has to grapple with her new identity, the political world, and the loss of her running team.
The biggest element of the story is her relationship with Dorian who killed her in the first book. Can she trust him with her heart? Can she trust him with her life?
Leigh Abbot the leader of the Runner institution put a bounty of Phoenix’s head. Now the greatest team of Runners are after her and her Coven. But Leigh offers a way to save the Coven—if Dorian kills Phoenix…again
This novel tackles topics like trust, grief, loss of identity, love, and morality. It features our wonderfully morally grey team of Vampires plus a few new adorable character who I loved getting to know.
If you have hesitations of reading it, let me tell you—IT WAS WORTH EVERY WORD, EVERY SECOND, EVERY PANICKED MOMENT. H.M. Darling has a way with introducing characters, weaving a plot, and pulling on heartstrings unlike any author I’ve read in a long time. She easily gets 5/5 stars. Read the triggers and definitely read this one—it’s worth it.
So I just finished, literally moments ago, I arc read the first book and was beyond thrilled to get this one. I will tell you— the ending was so good, I teared up—who am I kidding, I’m sobbing. This author! She is entering the world of writing like a force. I will literally buy anything she releases from here on out.
Some Spoilers ahead: (only up to about 25% of novel)
The story picks of only weeks after the first one ends. Phoenix is now a Vampire and one of the most powerful ones in the world. She now has to grapple with her new identity, the political world, and the loss of her running team.
The biggest element of the story is her relationship with Dorian who killed her in the first book. Can she trust him with her heart? Can she trust him with her life?
Leigh Abbot the leader of the Runner institution put a bounty of Phoenix’s head. Now the greatest team of Runners are after her and her Coven. But Leigh offers a way to save the Coven—if Dorian kills Phoenix…again
This novel tackles topics like trust, grief, loss of identity, love, and morality. It features our wonderfully morally grey team of Vampires plus a few new adorable character who I loved getting to know.
If you have hesitations of reading it, let me tell you—IT WAS WORTH EVERY WORD, EVERY SECOND, EVERY PANICKED MOMENT. H.M. Darling has a way with introducing characters, weaving a plot, and pulling on heartstrings unlike any author I’ve read in a long time. She easily gets 5/5 stars. Read the triggers and definitely read this one—it’s worth it.
September 30, 2022
What could be more complicated then being a world class vampire runner, in a morally gray relationship, with an emotionally unavailable vampire Coven Master? Being a recently turned vampire, 2nd in common Coven Heir, with the whole runner community out to kill you, while also still maintaining
that morally gray relationship with the vampire Coven Master. Did I mention he is also the one who killed you and turned you into a vampire against your will?
I didn't know Phoenix and Dorian's relationship could get more spicy, and complicated, but oh boy did it!! I loved seeing Phoenix turn from badass runner, to badass Coven Heir, add in a few new characters, and even more sass, and this book brings so much entertainment and suspense.
Summary:
Phoenix has to adjust to not only vampire life, but the expectations of being a coven Heir, and not everyone is as welcoming as she hoped. Especially the Runner's Institute, which has issued a worldwide hunt to kill her, even going as far as threatening the Coven's wellbeing. When it comes down to dying, or allowing the Coven to be hurt, which will Phoenix choose? And more importantly, which will Dorian choose?
that morally gray relationship with the vampire Coven Master. Did I mention he is also the one who killed you and turned you into a vampire against your will?
I didn't know Phoenix and Dorian's relationship could get more spicy, and complicated, but oh boy did it!! I loved seeing Phoenix turn from badass runner, to badass Coven Heir, add in a few new characters, and even more sass, and this book brings so much entertainment and suspense.
Summary:
Phoenix has to adjust to not only vampire life, but the expectations of being a coven Heir, and not everyone is as welcoming as she hoped. Especially the Runner's Institute, which has issued a worldwide hunt to kill her, even going as far as threatening the Coven's wellbeing. When it comes down to dying, or allowing the Coven to be hurt, which will Phoenix choose? And more importantly, which will Dorian choose?
January 2, 2024
I wish I enjoyed this book more than the first one. Without explaining anything Phoenix and Dorian just became inseparable but like why? I wish I could’ve understood it more deeply if it’s something to do with vampires or what but it all felt too much like lust and that’s it? The entire book was predictable, I was hoping with Phoenix keeping her secret from Dorian some kind of twist could’ve emerged but nothing came. I also wish we could’ve seen something from Dorian’s perspective I think it would’ve given the readers a better understanding of why he is how he is with Phoenix. The books only have maybe 20-40 pages of actual content while everything else was sex scenes. Don’t get me wrong I love a spicy book but this is just an entire sex book and honestly, the same in a different place over and over. Overall, I’m not very impressed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2022
What a roller coaster. The story continue and follows Phoenix as she navigates her new life as a vampire with the help of Dorian and crew. This story brings all the feelings. One minute happy, then angry. The ending was suited for this story. There is no other way that I could see it ending, but I was able to tell how it was going to go before it happened. Not sure if that was the intention, but it fit them. This is a completed duet but I wanted to keep reading about Dorian and Phoenix.
The only downside to this duet is that intimate scenes between Dorian and Phoenix are very repetitive, so much so that I would skim past them. However, that did not take away from the overall story.
The only downside to this duet is that intimate scenes between Dorian and Phoenix are very repetitive, so much so that I would skim past them. However, that did not take away from the overall story.
August 23, 2024
I dnf'd at 47% which was about 75% of the way through Dorian and Phoenix's full story. She is starting to maybe, potentially, if the mood strikes, consider having romantic feelings for this man she has never stopped thinking about?? And they've been having sex for A WHILE. Romantic feelings being that delayed just felt like a forgotten plot device. Skimmed the rest and only became more incensed with the direction of the story. Disappointed but not entirely surprised after the first one. I really loved Dorian and even grew to cherish Stella, but Phoenix wavered so much in her overall readability.
October 3, 2023
Listen, i really wanted to love this book, but it just fell so short for me. I think the series should’ve been a single, bigger book and it would’ve made me more interested and been a more impactful story. There was really no intriguing plot in this, it’s mostly smut (which i am not complaining about-it’s good smut) and i grew to not like the main character by the end of the book. You almost had me there at the end, i was about to be big mad, but it still didn’t save it for me. 3/5 ⭐️ for me but looking forward to her continuation on her current series as i adore those books.
September 13, 2022
I received an Arc copy of this book for an Honest Review. Let me tell you this book did not disappoint. I could not put it down. The dynamic between Pheonix and Dorian is perfect. I devoured this book in one day! You will feel all the emotions with this one. The Ending <3 had me thinking about it well after I was done reading. H.M. Darling is a promising writer I cannot wait to read more by this author!!
September 15, 2022
I knew I was going to love this book after reading the first amazing book. Phoenix and Dorien and their lack of actually telling eachother they fell in love with eachother and the final reveal at the end!! This was just an amazing installment of this series and I will be waiting for the third book with the most anticipation I've ever had for a book
I received an arc and it was the best decision i made in applying for one, fully not expecting to get one
All I can say is bloody READ IT NOW!!
I received an arc and it was the best decision i made in applying for one, fully not expecting to get one
All I can say is bloody READ IT NOW!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2022
Master of Flames
I am so disappointed this book is over. I wanted more of Dorian and Phoenix. This book was a journey for sure. It picks up where book 1 left off. Everyone is hunting Phoenix because the Institute is crazy. Dorian and her relationship is rocky but hot. I enjoyed this book but I felt the ending of their story was rushed after everything that happened and I wished we could have gotten more of Phoenix's reign as Master.
I am so disappointed this book is over. I wanted more of Dorian and Phoenix. This book was a journey for sure. It picks up where book 1 left off. Everyone is hunting Phoenix because the Institute is crazy. Dorian and her relationship is rocky but hot. I enjoyed this book but I felt the ending of their story was rushed after everything that happened and I wished we could have gotten more of Phoenix's reign as Master.
September 25, 2022
Book two absolutely did not disappoint.
I loved how Phoenix wasn't a perfect vampire she struggled and there were so many moments that Dorian had me smiling like an absolute idiot.
The smut was fantastic sooooo much thot sprinkled into the plot it was freaking perfect.
I will admit I almost throw my kindle at least twice and that ending 🥺🥺😮
I loved how Phoenix wasn't a perfect vampire she struggled and there were so many moments that Dorian had me smiling like an absolute idiot.
The smut was fantastic sooooo much thot sprinkled into the plot it was freaking perfect.
I will admit I almost throw my kindle at least twice and that ending 🥺🥺😮
April 27, 2023
Vampires rule!
I am so sad that this is the end!
My heart broke through out the book only to shatter at the end to know it over!
Such an amazing story between Phoenix and Dorian. The ups and downs but it was all worth it. I will not spoil anything but I do recommend you read this book …
like yesterday.
I am so sad that this is the end!
My heart broke through out the book only to shatter at the end to know it over!
Such an amazing story between Phoenix and Dorian. The ups and downs but it was all worth it. I will not spoil anything but I do recommend you read this book …
like yesterday.
September 19, 2022
I’m actually so bummed this series is over!! I’ve fallen in love with Dorian and Phoenix, the spice is top notch but their love story and their power story are a force to be reckoned with!! Definitely will read this over and over again!
September 20, 2022
Holy friggen plot twist. Phoenix and Dorian are as explosive as ever. The constant battle between the Runners and coven doesn't let up. The lies, decept at ever step of the way. The ending almost killed me.
October 4, 2022
Arc reviewer *spoiler free*
A perfect paranormal romance! If you like Vampires then phoenix and dorian are your couple goals.. however the ending had me gripping my kindle tight so i didnt throw it at my bedroom door. 🙃 😅
A perfect paranormal romance! If you like Vampires then phoenix and dorian are your couple goals.. however the ending had me gripping my kindle tight so i didnt throw it at my bedroom door. 🙃 😅
November 9, 2022
This book shook me to my core, the love hate relationship between these characters shows how toxic relationships can be but that's why we love these dark romances. This author knows how to tell a story that leaves you on the edge of your seat. I look forward to reading more from this author
September 16, 2022
I can not tell you how excited I was to receive this. I fell in love with Phoenix Ashburns world in the first book. And having finished the second I am still in love.
October 5, 2022
This book took me on a wild ride. One that had me crying once the book was finished. I adored this whole series. It kind of gives me underworld vibes.
October 5, 2022
I loved this book just as much as the first. It was very well written and altogether amazing. I highly recommend this series. You won’t want to put it down.
Read
November 20, 2022Be prepared for an emotion rollercoaster and many TSTL decisions.
June 15, 2023
4.5 ⭐️ Love it! Review to come!
August 24, 2024
Big fan… this series is fabulous
July 11, 2025
I love all of her books her stories are wonderful. I have met her twice and she is a very caring and intelligent young lady I love the books
September 15, 2022
I stayed up all night reading this book! I couldn't put it down! I love pheonix and Dorian dynamic. I knew that ending was gonna happen!!!
October 4, 2022
I had the opportunity to be an ARC reader for Master of Flames and it was a roller coaster to say the least. The second book in this series was as captivating as the first. The spice in this book is amazing. The writing style is very detailed!
Phoenix Ashburn was deadly as a Runner(vampire Hunter) but when she became what she once hunted she became unstoppable. One thing she tries to resist is the vampire who made her, Dorian! Dorian Sterling will be you next book boyfriend!
If you love:
Enemies to lovers
Vampires
Strong Female Character
Lots of spice!
I highly recommend this book!
Phoenix Ashburn was deadly as a Runner(vampire Hunter) but when she became what she once hunted she became unstoppable. One thing she tries to resist is the vampire who made her, Dorian! Dorian Sterling will be you next book boyfriend!
If you love:
Enemies to lovers
Vampires
Strong Female Character
Lots of spice!
I highly recommend this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 31, 2023
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster for me. I loved and hated it. It was such a beautiful story. I love how towards the end Phoenix’s runner Beck, came to support her in the end and warned her about the whole plot Leigh had planned. The ending of this book had me crying in happy tears to know that Dorian is alive and they see each other again! The only thing I didn’t like was how they would make up so easily and end up being in bed, I felt like there could’ve been more tension and more of like a “groveling” type.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2022
What can I say I both loved and hated this book. The writing is great. Author is a great storyteller. I understood Pheonix's feelings towards her old friends and job. The story kept me engaged until the end. Although I did figure out the end it was still well written.
My downfall was that Phoenix was written to be a strong female character in the first book but in this book no matter what Dorian did she forgave him and they ended up in bed.
I also don't understand why in the middle of a chapter she started referring to a character as "they" with zero background. Out of the blue like it was just thrown in there. I had t go back to see if I missed something.
***I was provided and ARC for my honest opinion ***
My downfall was that Phoenix was written to be a strong female character in the first book but in this book no matter what Dorian did she forgave him and they ended up in bed.
I also don't understand why in the middle of a chapter she started referring to a character as "they" with zero background. Out of the blue like it was just thrown in there. I had t go back to see if I missed something.
***I was provided and ARC for my honest opinion ***
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews