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The Faylan Trials #1
On Wings of Ash and Dust
A rebel pixie princess. A deadly competition between five faerie clans. Will she win the crown or die trying?
Pixie pirate Quinn may be an outlaw, wanted by all five faerie clans, but she prefers it that way. All she wants is to finally become a captain and bury her true identity beneath the rolling waves. But when the sudden death of her twin brother causes her to plot a vengeful heist, a shocking betrayal unmasks her for who she really is—her people’s last living heir.
Her only hope of escaping certain death for her crimes is taking her brother’s place in the Ethodine: a dangerous competition for the faerie crown.
In a series of death-defying trials, Quinn faces off with the heirs of four rival clans:
A mute beast tamer.
A flirtatious merman.
A half-blind artist.
And a pompous princess.
But as dark secrets unravel and an ancient prophecy entwines their fates, rivals must become allies before there’s no world left to rule.
On Wings of Ash and Dust is the action-packed first book in this YA epic fantasy. If you're looking for a fresh take on fae magic, deadly trials, and royal intrigue with a dash of enemies-to-lovers, then you’ll adore Brittany Wang’s whimsical and dangerous tale.
Buy On Wings of Ash and Dust to dive into the adventure today!
Pixie pirate Quinn may be an outlaw, wanted by all five faerie clans, but she prefers it that way. All she wants is to finally become a captain and bury her true identity beneath the rolling waves. But when the sudden death of her twin brother causes her to plot a vengeful heist, a shocking betrayal unmasks her for who she really is—her people’s last living heir.
Her only hope of escaping certain death for her crimes is taking her brother’s place in the Ethodine: a dangerous competition for the faerie crown.
In a series of death-defying trials, Quinn faces off with the heirs of four rival clans:
A mute beast tamer.
A flirtatious merman.
A half-blind artist.
And a pompous princess.
But as dark secrets unravel and an ancient prophecy entwines their fates, rivals must become allies before there’s no world left to rule.
On Wings of Ash and Dust is the action-packed first book in this YA epic fantasy. If you're looking for a fresh take on fae magic, deadly trials, and royal intrigue with a dash of enemies-to-lovers, then you’ll adore Brittany Wang’s whimsical and dangerous tale.
Buy On Wings of Ash and Dust to dive into the adventure today!
502 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2022
657 people are currently reading
16537 people want to read
About the author
Brittany Wang
8 books400 followersBrittany Wang is the author of the young adult fantasy serial series, On Wings of Ash and Dust.
She is also a YouTuber and Author Website Designer who is passionate about helping writers finish their novels, find writing community, & build a platform that grows their readership.
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY:
https://www.authorbrittanywang.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorbritt...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/authorbrittan...
Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/authorbrittan...
She is also a YouTuber and Author Website Designer who is passionate about helping writers finish their novels, find writing community, & build a platform that grows their readership.
CONNECT WITH BRITTANY:
https://www.authorbrittanywang.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorbritt...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/authorbrittan...
Patreon | https://www.patreon.com/authorbrittan...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 365 reviews
January 16, 2024
When am I gonna learn my lesson? Research the books before you read them, Lindsey. Find out if the series is over before you start reading and get interested into the world. I mistakenly thought that because this was a collection of six novellas, the series was over. I am here to tell you it is not. I was wondering the closer and closer we got to the end, I kept wondering, "this feels like it’s gonna be a really rushed ending...this can’t be all to the story." Well that’s because it’s not. I’m flabbergasted over here. Do you know the emoji that looks like it’s just being tortured and in agony? That’s how I currently feel. I’m really bummed. With no news of when the sequel is going to be released and not everything wrapped up in this book, I feel a little betrayed. 500 pages later and I don’t have all the answers I need. 500 pages in less than 24 hours. All I did was read today because I wanted wanted to finish this book. I am in stunned agony over here.
I thought it was terribly rash of her to run away after she injuries her twin brother and doesn’t know if he’s okay. She felt very selfish in that regard, only caring about herself. Once we see her in the pirate world, she felt arrogate and I can’t say that I liked her much. I was glad when she realized that her pirate ways have harmed the civilians of the clans, not the big guys and we see more character development from her as the book progresses.
A certain betrayal at the beginning felt a bit off but made sense at the same time? I’m not sure how to explain it.
At times, this book reminded me of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series, with all the different types of fairies, the worlds they live in, and their clans. It was very creative in that regard. It didn’t hold my intention as well as that series, but it was very interesting and, like I said, I wanted to finish it quickly to find out answers.
The fairy pirate stuff reminded me of Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure which is by far my favorite Tinker Bell movie—and the best one, don’t argue with me. Which was fun. I haven’t read a lot of fairy/fae books, but it was probably the one I’ve enjoyed the most and found the best explained and fleshed out. As someone who struggles with high fantasy books, I truly appreciate that fact alone about this book. I never felt like I was scrambling to follow the plot and pick up the hints and pieces to the puzzle of the book’s world while reading. Everything can naturally and was explained when and how it needed to. Props to the author for that!
Would I read the sequel when it releases? I don’t know. I want to say yes. And I know that if it was out now, I would’ve downloaded it right after writing this review. But I have to wait and would probably have to reread this book, so I’m not sure. I guess we’ll find out.
Main Content:
They’re faeries and there’s magic a plenty in this book, particularly from our main character, Quinn, who has fire shoot from her hands when having strong emotions;
Some of the clans have special abilities tied into their magic such as controlling fire, manipulating water, healing others, transforming into half-fish when in the sea, shifting into an animal or a tree, being able to see in the dark, use a special voice to control others and persuade them, & magical doorways where others can’t find a place or to be able to create a palace under the sea with no water getting inside; These abilities are used for good and evil & we see both on-page; Quinn’s family’s clan views magic as a crutch and not to be used; There is a mystical group called the Mystics that are thought to be basically a cult that worships a beast (the Numa, some believe they studied it religiously) and the enemy of all the fairies clans, but especially Quinn’s as they were originally the same clan; There’s many mentions of a prophesy about that beast/creature (called a Numa) and it returning (some characters have “visions” of this event); Quinn & the others stumble into a Mystic temple where it’s said that they worshiped the Numa; There are creatures called “goblins” that are grotesque that aim to hurt faeries & also brutally eat different animals (up to semi-detailed); Someone who has become a goblin says they went through an “enhancement. An evolution, if you will”.
The Dryad clan has a monorail dance that they believe calls forth rain when it’s needed (but it hasn’t been working lately); Someone is able to heal other faeries and animals who have been injured (up to semi-detailed); The Dryad clan believe that a faerie’s spirit lives on after they’ve died and are watching over those they left behind (And while Quinn’s clan doesn’t believe that, she starts wonders if this is true about her brother & it’s mentioned and discussed a bit); Quinn has nightmares of her brother being hurt and wonders if it’s her subconscious telling her something, thinking that if she doesn’t find out what happened to her brother, she’ll never be free of his ghost.
Someone tells Quinn that “gift or curse, your ability doesn’t define you. What you do with it, that’s what defines you.” And this is something Quinn thinks about.
When seeing a large family, someone makes a comment on how that clan isn’t kidding when they say to “go forth and multiply” (a nod to Scripture).
Incantations, Curses, and spells are said to be used (in terms of incantations of usually helping someone, someone being cursed with something bad happening, and spells of having someone under a manipulative spell).
*Spoilers* .
*Major Spoilers*
Mentions of blood oaths & rituals; Mentions of curses & superstitions; A few mentions of a creature being called the “sea devil” and another “the demon of the silver sea”; A few mentions of dark sorcery (in a rumor about someone using it).
Language: 1 b****** (used as an insult and not the literal meaning), 1 d***, and 1 h***; A place is called “hell” as well; a handful of unfinished or cut-off “what the”s; Faylan (the country this book is set in) and Fae are also used as a curse in different versions like “For Faylan’s sake”, “By Faylan”, “Thank Faylan”, “where/how/what in Faylan”, and “Fae forbid”; Quinn also curses but they’re not written out; Else wise, words like screw up, stupid, idiot, heck, witch, bloody, and blasted are used; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Quinn & others lie here and there (deemed for the greater good but not just lying to lie).
Pixie dust is treated similar to a drug in this world, it’s mined as crystals and turned into a powder that can be used for good (medicines, incantations, fuel, euphoria, and floating) and bad (Dangers with overexposure or missing certain herbs which can cause susceptibility to sickness, depression, loss of memory, lunacy, and death); There are many mentions of it being used for all of these (including a side character using it often for his pain) and other faerie folk being high and someone being others’ supplier; There are also comments and teases about being high and sniffing pixie dust; It’s typically smoked in a pipe and described as a “rush and soothing calm”.
Quinn & others drink and go to a pub (she also wishes for a drink at a few points & also has a hangover); Quinn acts drunk to overhear a conversation; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drinks, pubs, & hangovers; The Dryad clan have symbolic tattoos covering their skin.
Quinn grieves the loss of her brother & we see another character grieve her sister (up to semi-detailed); Quinn also has nightmares of her brother dying and being tortured; Mentions of deaths, illnesses, & grieving loved ones; Quinn and her father have a strained relationship & she believes that she’s always been manipulated into making the choice her father wanted.
Quinn almost gives up a few times, thinking about dying (but something always prevents that from happening); Almost drowning & fear of water afterwards (up to semi-detailed); Being choked & attacked (up to semi-detailed); Some Killing, & Lots of Fighting, Punching, Self-Defense, Injuring others, Being held captive/locked up, Fires, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, & Passing out (all up to semi-detailed); Seeing others attacked, injured, & killed by beasts (up to semi-detailed); Being poisoned & the symptoms (including hallucinations of seeing a loved one who has passed, this is very emotional for Quinn, up to semi-detailed); Coming across a jackalope in a hunting trap (up to semi-detailed); Quinn fights many others and will kill them if she has to for her sake or in protection of someone else; Quinn accidentally hurts someone close to her with her fire powers (up to semi-detailed); As a pirate (which we see a few chapters of), Quinn steals from, fights, nearly kills someone, & threatens others; Quinn does kill someone in self-defense (with her fire powers, up to semi-detailed).
Mentions of wars, crimes, criminals, stealing, thieves, Mentions of deaths in fires and fights, fighting, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of torture & a brutal maze that can kill or injure those in it (we see a pixie lose part of her leg in it, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of slaves & slavery; Mentions of gambling & betting; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of an animal carcass & blood (up to semi-detailed); A handful of mentions of suicide & believing someone killed himself; A few mentions of a rumor about someone having the gift of touching someone and them dying; A few mentions of throwing up.
A male faerie (called a puck) forces a kiss on Quinn when he’s drunk (barely-above-not-detailed); There’s a couple almost kisses & a kiss (but it’s not super descriptive, at most a few sentences in length); Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); A male nymph (mermaid-like faerie) is shirtless a handful of times and Quinn notices his muscles (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing, Nearness, & Touches (up to semi-detailed); Flirting, winks, & Blushes; Mentions of flirting, flirts, & crushes; A couple mentions of low-cut dresses & provocative clothing; A mention of the scandals of a royal taking a mistress from another clan.
A guy teases Quinn & another girl for holding hands (He didn’t know they were telepathically communicating); Quinn aims to knee a puck in the groin, but misses and hits his stomach instead.
I thought it was terribly rash of her to run away after she injuries her twin brother and doesn’t know if he’s okay. She felt very selfish in that regard, only caring about herself. Once we see her in the pirate world, she felt arrogate and I can’t say that I liked her much. I was glad when she realized that her pirate ways have harmed the civilians of the clans, not the big guys and we see more character development from her as the book progresses.
A certain betrayal at the beginning felt a bit off but made sense at the same time? I’m not sure how to explain it.
At times, this book reminded me of the Keeper of the Lost Cities series, with all the different types of fairies, the worlds they live in, and their clans. It was very creative in that regard. It didn’t hold my intention as well as that series, but it was very interesting and, like I said, I wanted to finish it quickly to find out answers.
The fairy pirate stuff reminded me of Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure which is by far my favorite Tinker Bell movie—and the best one, don’t argue with me. Which was fun. I haven’t read a lot of fairy/fae books, but it was probably the one I’ve enjoyed the most and found the best explained and fleshed out. As someone who struggles with high fantasy books, I truly appreciate that fact alone about this book. I never felt like I was scrambling to follow the plot and pick up the hints and pieces to the puzzle of the book’s world while reading. Everything can naturally and was explained when and how it needed to. Props to the author for that!
Would I read the sequel when it releases? I don’t know. I want to say yes. And I know that if it was out now, I would’ve downloaded it right after writing this review. But I have to wait and would probably have to reread this book, so I’m not sure. I guess we’ll find out.
Main Content:
They’re faeries and there’s magic a plenty in this book, particularly from our main character, Quinn, who has fire shoot from her hands when having strong emotions;
Some of the clans have special abilities tied into their magic such as controlling fire, manipulating water, healing others, transforming into half-fish when in the sea, shifting into an animal or a tree, being able to see in the dark, use a special voice to control others and persuade them, & magical doorways where others can’t find a place or to be able to create a palace under the sea with no water getting inside; These abilities are used for good and evil & we see both on-page; Quinn’s family’s clan views magic as a crutch and not to be used; There is a mystical group called the Mystics that are thought to be basically a cult that worships a beast (the Numa, some believe they studied it religiously) and the enemy of all the fairies clans, but especially Quinn’s as they were originally the same clan; There’s many mentions of a prophesy about that beast/creature (called a Numa) and it returning (some characters have “visions” of this event); Quinn & the others stumble into a Mystic temple where it’s said that they worshiped the Numa; There are creatures called “goblins” that are grotesque that aim to hurt faeries & also brutally eat different animals (up to semi-detailed); Someone who has become a goblin says they went through an “enhancement. An evolution, if you will”.
The Dryad clan has a monorail dance that they believe calls forth rain when it’s needed (but it hasn’t been working lately); Someone is able to heal other faeries and animals who have been injured (up to semi-detailed); The Dryad clan believe that a faerie’s spirit lives on after they’ve died and are watching over those they left behind (And while Quinn’s clan doesn’t believe that, she starts wonders if this is true about her brother & it’s mentioned and discussed a bit); Quinn has nightmares of her brother being hurt and wonders if it’s her subconscious telling her something, thinking that if she doesn’t find out what happened to her brother, she’ll never be free of his ghost.
Someone tells Quinn that “gift or curse, your ability doesn’t define you. What you do with it, that’s what defines you.” And this is something Quinn thinks about.
When seeing a large family, someone makes a comment on how that clan isn’t kidding when they say to “go forth and multiply” (a nod to Scripture).
Incantations, Curses, and spells are said to be used (in terms of incantations of usually helping someone, someone being cursed with something bad happening, and spells of having someone under a manipulative spell).
*Spoilers* .
*Major Spoilers*
Mentions of blood oaths & rituals; Mentions of curses & superstitions; A few mentions of a creature being called the “sea devil” and another “the demon of the silver sea”; A few mentions of dark sorcery (in a rumor about someone using it).
Language: 1 b****** (used as an insult and not the literal meaning), 1 d***, and 1 h***; A place is called “hell” as well; a handful of unfinished or cut-off “what the”s; Faylan (the country this book is set in) and Fae are also used as a curse in different versions like “For Faylan’s sake”, “By Faylan”, “Thank Faylan”, “where/how/what in Faylan”, and “Fae forbid”; Quinn also curses but they’re not written out; Else wise, words like screw up, stupid, idiot, heck, witch, bloody, and blasted are used; Sarcasm & Eye rolling; Quinn & others lie here and there (deemed for the greater good but not just lying to lie).
Pixie dust is treated similar to a drug in this world, it’s mined as crystals and turned into a powder that can be used for good (medicines, incantations, fuel, euphoria, and floating) and bad (Dangers with overexposure or missing certain herbs which can cause susceptibility to sickness, depression, loss of memory, lunacy, and death); There are many mentions of it being used for all of these (including a side character using it often for his pain) and other faerie folk being high and someone being others’ supplier; There are also comments and teases about being high and sniffing pixie dust; It’s typically smoked in a pipe and described as a “rush and soothing calm”.
Quinn & others drink and go to a pub (she also wishes for a drink at a few points & also has a hangover); Quinn acts drunk to overhear a conversation; Mentions of alcohol, drinking, drinks, pubs, & hangovers; The Dryad clan have symbolic tattoos covering their skin.
Quinn grieves the loss of her brother & we see another character grieve her sister (up to semi-detailed); Quinn also has nightmares of her brother dying and being tortured; Mentions of deaths, illnesses, & grieving loved ones; Quinn and her father have a strained relationship & she believes that she’s always been manipulated into making the choice her father wanted.
Quinn almost gives up a few times, thinking about dying (but something always prevents that from happening); Almost drowning & fear of water afterwards (up to semi-detailed); Being choked & attacked (up to semi-detailed); Some Killing, & Lots of Fighting, Punching, Self-Defense, Injuring others, Being held captive/locked up, Fires, Pain, Blood/Bleeding, & Passing out (all up to semi-detailed); Seeing others attacked, injured, & killed by beasts (up to semi-detailed); Being poisoned & the symptoms (including hallucinations of seeing a loved one who has passed, this is very emotional for Quinn, up to semi-detailed); Coming across a jackalope in a hunting trap (up to semi-detailed); Quinn fights many others and will kill them if she has to for her sake or in protection of someone else; Quinn accidentally hurts someone close to her with her fire powers (up to semi-detailed); As a pirate (which we see a few chapters of), Quinn steals from, fights, nearly kills someone, & threatens others; Quinn does kill someone in self-defense (with her fire powers, up to semi-detailed).
Mentions of wars, crimes, criminals, stealing, thieves, Mentions of deaths in fires and fights, fighting, injuries, pain, blood/bleeding, & passing out (up to semi-detailed); Mentions of torture & a brutal maze that can kill or injure those in it (we see a pixie lose part of her leg in it, up to semi-detailed); Mentions of slaves & slavery; Mentions of gambling & betting; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of an animal carcass & blood (up to semi-detailed); A handful of mentions of suicide & believing someone killed himself; A few mentions of a rumor about someone having the gift of touching someone and them dying; A few mentions of throwing up.
A male faerie (called a puck) forces a kiss on Quinn when he’s drunk (barely-above-not-detailed); There’s a couple almost kisses & a kiss (but it’s not super descriptive, at most a few sentences in length); Recalling a kiss (barely-above-not-detailed); A male nymph (mermaid-like faerie) is shirtless a handful of times and Quinn notices his muscles (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing, Nearness, & Touches (up to semi-detailed); Flirting, winks, & Blushes; Mentions of flirting, flirts, & crushes; A couple mentions of low-cut dresses & provocative clothing; A mention of the scandals of a royal taking a mistress from another clan.
A guy teases Quinn & another girl for holding hands (He didn’t know they were telepathically communicating); Quinn aims to knee a puck in the groin, but misses and hits his stomach instead.
February 1, 2024
solid 4.5⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➼i'm a mess, but i'm the mess that you wanted
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➼i don't know how it gets better than this
.
if you’re a child, preteen, or—let’s be honest—a full-blown teen or adult (me) that loved/loves the pixie hollow moves, this book is for you. it literally checks so many boxes:
💛 enemies-to-allies-to-friends-to-something-more
💛 found family
💛 deadly fae
💛 triwizard tournament vibes
💛 betrayals
💛 mystery
💛 plot twists
💛 blue-haired-winged-fae love interest
it features rival fae clan competitions, pirates, merfolk, and dragons—all wrapped up in an incredibly intriguing, action-packed, fast-paced, deadly adventure.
think: the hunger games x pirates of the caribbean x pixie hollow x harry potter and the goblet of fire.
also ‘tinker bell and the lost treasure’. (obviously the best tinker bell movie—argue with the wall.)
need i say more?
quinn, the main character, is like a tinker bell and zarina mix, while aeron is like terrance. only it’s like so much better! (personally i always thought tink and terrance belonged together.)
the worldbuilding is unique and easy to understand, and i really appreciated that the use of faerie mythology was used throughout the story. i was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. it was almost painful to be away from this book when i couldn’t be reading.
honestly, i loved this from the first page because it was immersive and engaging and twisted and so much more. it gripped me from the beginning and wouldn’t let me go. i’m also OBSESSED with these characters and this world.
i cannot believe there’s not more hype surrounding this book because it’s so much better than a lot of the “viral tiktok sensations” we’ve seen plaguing the world with their mediocrity. ‘on wings of ash and dust’ deserves way more attention than it’s granted, so it can climb itself to the top of the new york’s bestseller list.
the only reason i took a half star off is because the “enemies-to-lovers” didn’t last quite as long as i wanted it to (though admittedly it’s still quite slow-burn), and the last few chapters were a little info-dumpy. despite this, it’s set up nicely for a sequel/series and i cannot wait to see where the story goes!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➼i'm a mess, but i'm the mess that you wanted
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️➼i don't know how it gets better than this
.
if you’re a child, preteen, or—let’s be honest—a full-blown teen or adult (me) that loved/loves the pixie hollow moves, this book is for you. it literally checks so many boxes:
💛 enemies-to-allies-to-friends-to-something-more
💛 found family
💛 deadly fae
💛 triwizard tournament vibes
💛 betrayals
💛 mystery
💛 plot twists
💛 blue-haired-winged-fae love interest
it features rival fae clan competitions, pirates, merfolk, and dragons—all wrapped up in an incredibly intriguing, action-packed, fast-paced, deadly adventure.
think: the hunger games x pirates of the caribbean x pixie hollow x harry potter and the goblet of fire.
also ‘tinker bell and the lost treasure’. (obviously the best tinker bell movie—argue with the wall.)
need i say more?
quinn, the main character, is like a tinker bell and zarina mix, while aeron is like terrance. only it’s like so much better! (personally i always thought tink and terrance belonged together.)
the worldbuilding is unique and easy to understand, and i really appreciated that the use of faerie mythology was used throughout the story. i was literally on the edge of my seat the entire time. it was almost painful to be away from this book when i couldn’t be reading.
honestly, i loved this from the first page because it was immersive and engaging and twisted and so much more. it gripped me from the beginning and wouldn’t let me go. i’m also OBSESSED with these characters and this world.
i cannot believe there’s not more hype surrounding this book because it’s so much better than a lot of the “viral tiktok sensations” we’ve seen plaguing the world with their mediocrity. ‘on wings of ash and dust’ deserves way more attention than it’s granted, so it can climb itself to the top of the new york’s bestseller list.
the only reason i took a half star off is because the “enemies-to-lovers” didn’t last quite as long as i wanted it to (though admittedly it’s still quite slow-burn), and the last few chapters were a little info-dumpy. despite this, it’s set up nicely for a sequel/series and i cannot wait to see where the story goes!!
October 4, 2024
3.5 Stars!
August 21, 2025
4 stars!! This was so fun! I'd seen this book around instagram for ages but shout out to Shiloh for convincing me to read it!! ♡
✧ Found Family
✧ Pirates
✧ Magical Trials
✧ Enemies to Lovers
✧ Blind and Mute Rep
My favorite part was absolutely the trials!!! This book is basically like the triwizard tournament, but there are fairies and they are fighting for the crown!! I also loved the found family. My favorite character was definitely Alys!! I didn't love Quinn at first, but I loved her interactions with the other characters. Aeron definitely grew on me, but he’s still not my favorite.
Overall such a fun book and I look forward to continuing the series!
✧ Found Family
✧ Pirates
✧ Magical Trials
✧ Enemies to Lovers
✧ Blind and Mute Rep
My favorite part was absolutely the trials!!! This book is basically like the triwizard tournament, but there are fairies and they are fighting for the crown!! I also loved the found family. My favorite character was definitely Alys!! I didn't love Quinn at first, but I loved her interactions with the other characters. Aeron definitely grew on me, but he’s still not my favorite.
Overall such a fun book and I look forward to continuing the series!
February 5, 2022
Oooh you’re gonna love this story! No spoilers but I’m shipping a certain Nymph character. ;) Also this faerie world is something completely new and it’s going to make fantasy readers so happy!
December 26, 2024
words cannot describe my love for this book.
this was a I would "go to bed" early just to have an excuse to listen to my audiobook until 4 am book.
it definitely took a couple chapters to get into, but was I was locked in by the time Quinn met Aaron (is that how you spell his name?)
the following unravels beautifully in this book:
-heartbreaking loss of family
-perfectly executed betrayal
-fairies x pirates x warriors
-finding a sense of belonging in yourself
-rivals -> lovers
-found family
-competition with the odds stacked
-secret deals
-ancient prophecies
and moreeeee
like how could this book get better?!
I can't wait until book 2 comes outttt
content:
*minor spoilers*
magic, fighting, burns, fire, blood, course language (not explicit that I can remember), kissing, romanic tension, death, mourning/grief, sword fighting, killing, stealing, plundering, ancient prophecies, magical creatures, etc.
no spice!
this was a I would "go to bed" early just to have an excuse to listen to my audiobook until 4 am book.
it definitely took a couple chapters to get into, but was I was locked in by the time Quinn met Aaron (is that how you spell his name?)
the following unravels beautifully in this book:
-heartbreaking loss of family
-perfectly executed betrayal
-fairies x pirates x warriors
-finding a sense of belonging in yourself
-rivals -> lovers
-found family
-competition with the odds stacked
-secret deals
-ancient prophecies
and moreeeee
like how could this book get better?!
I can't wait until book 2 comes outttt
content:
*minor spoilers*
magic, fighting, burns, fire, blood, course language (not explicit that I can remember), kissing, romanic tension, death, mourning/grief, sword fighting, killing, stealing, plundering, ancient prophecies, magical creatures, etc.
no spice!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
4 Stars ✨
Clean YA Fantasy
Super creative world full of pixies and pirates. It was like a mild Hunger Games meets Peter Pan… if you can even imagine…
5 royalty clans face off in numerous trials to see who will be the next to take the throne of Faylan.With lots of dramatic bits in between. It was cool reading the dynamics between the different competitors from beginning to end you never really are sure who to trust. You can read this as a full book or broken down into 6 novellas. I read them broken down that made it fun and more time for books in between. I will warn you (because I had no idea) the journey will continue- this is not the full series. You have been warned because you most likely will want the next book asap. Overall - This was unique and super fun to read.
Clean YA Fantasy
Super creative world full of pixies and pirates. It was like a mild Hunger Games meets Peter Pan… if you can even imagine…
5 royalty clans face off in numerous trials to see who will be the next to take the throne of Faylan.With lots of dramatic bits in between. It was cool reading the dynamics between the different competitors from beginning to end you never really are sure who to trust. You can read this as a full book or broken down into 6 novellas. I read them broken down that made it fun and more time for books in between. I will warn you (because I had no idea) the journey will continue- this is not the full series. You have been warned because you most likely will want the next book asap. Overall - This was unique and super fun to read.
May 14, 2024
~2🎀~
If I was in my early teens I would've loved this
If I was in my early teens I would've loved this
December 27, 2023
OH. MY. WORD. Ok this has to be one of the top reads of the year. I AM IN LOVE. With the plot... the characters... ALL OF IT *dies* Aeron is so... gah perfect. Yes i have fallen in love with yet another fictional character. I've been told its a red flag (by a guy.... XD) but do we care? nope! Hickory is awesome. Just sayin. Both guys gave off Finnick Odair vibes in their own ways which is... yayay lol Ugh and the girls were awesome. Vale and Alys' relationships with Quinn were great. And i keep saying awesome but thats not even a good enough word to describe it all. I love fantasy... and fae... and its hard to find clean books like this so im really happy about that part. I need the next book. Like now. But since i can't make that happen i will attempt to be patient and wait *pouts* And honestly i dont cry while reading but i think my teenage hormones have caught up to me and while i still dont cry... i kinda felt like crying a few times. heh. Anywayyyyyyy words cant describe how much i like this book. all i have left to say is GO READ IT NOW. Or else i will come hunt you down and force you to read it. *leaves to mourn the ending of the book*
February 27, 2025
Ok, I think I can up this by half a star now that I have read a few reviews and found out that the series isn’t complete.🤦🏽♀️ One of the biggest complaints I had was the unanswered questions.
I liked the writing. I didn’t like the FMC, and the love interest was way too conciliatory towards her “tough-girl, emotionally-stunted pirate self.”🙄
I read another reviewer say that she was glad she realized the error of her pirating ways, but I missed that. Granted, this was an audiobook, and I frequently miss things when I listen vs. read, but I would have hoped for more in regard to her growth in that area. There were no baby steps along the way, no foreshadowing. She spent most of the book wanting to get back to pirating.🤷♀️
If you haven’t noticed, I am not a fan of pirates. At least when they are cast in a positive light.
As much as I wanted answers to my questions, I doubt I will read the next book. I appreciated that it was a clean read, but I just didn’t love the characters.
Content: talk of drinking and being drunk
I liked the writing. I didn’t like the FMC, and the love interest was way too conciliatory towards her “tough-girl, emotionally-stunted pirate self.”🙄
I read another reviewer say that she was glad she realized the error of her pirating ways, but I missed that. Granted, this was an audiobook, and I frequently miss things when I listen vs. read, but I would have hoped for more in regard to her growth in that area. There were no baby steps along the way, no foreshadowing. She spent most of the book wanting to get back to pirating.🤷♀️
If you haven’t noticed, I am not a fan of pirates. At least when they are cast in a positive light.
As much as I wanted answers to my questions, I doubt I will read the next book. I appreciated that it was a clean read, but I just didn’t love the characters.
Content: talk of drinking and being drunk
February 4, 2022
Brittany Wang blew me away with her debut serial series, On Wings of Ash and Dust, filling it with an immersive world, fleshed out characters, and an engaging story with lots of twists. I appreciate that Faylan is an all fairy world with a fresh take on the mythical creatures, with varied environments and technology. Starting from one of the best opening chapters I've read, the story continues to hit it's stride from the start to the end, telling the tale of a princess turned pirate pixie named Quinn and getting wrapped up in a competition to decide the ruler of their lands, which each of the challenges unique, engaging and deadly. Each episode or novella kept me on my toes on what would happen next. I'm looking forward to more installments of this series and what Brittany Wang has in store for us next!
I love the paperback cover as well as the interior with different pictures for the chapter header for each part/episode. The type is on the smaller end, but it's to fit it into 500 pages, as it's a a fairly long book. I love the map and other materials that wasn't in the ebook.
I love the paperback cover as well as the interior with different pictures for the chapter header for each part/episode. The type is on the smaller end, but it's to fit it into 500 pages, as it's a a fairly long book. I love the map and other materials that wasn't in the ebook.
June 25, 2024
So I often give books a 5/5 just because I like them, though I recognize I’m probably being a bit lenient. This book is a true 5/5 though, honestly if I could give it more stars I would!
Everything about this book was perfection, it’s like the author peaked into my mind on every trope I love and was like “time to put it in the book!” From the world building to the characters, I was so invested in every single aspect. I truly have no complaints! Some parts were a bit predictable at times, but reading the story through Quinn’s eyes still allowed me to be on the edge of my seat as she pieced secrets together.
Literally throwing up this was just so amazing and I wish I could read it all over again for the first time! I’m so eager and excited for the sequel, it cannot come fast enough! There is just so much left to answer. Truly brilliant work and I’m totally back into my YA fantasy phase.
Everything about this book was perfection, it’s like the author peaked into my mind on every trope I love and was like “time to put it in the book!” From the world building to the characters, I was so invested in every single aspect. I truly have no complaints! Some parts were a bit predictable at times, but reading the story through Quinn’s eyes still allowed me to be on the edge of my seat as she pieced secrets together.
Literally throwing up this was just so amazing and I wish I could read it all over again for the first time! I’m so eager and excited for the sequel, it cannot come fast enough! There is just so much left to answer. Truly brilliant work and I’m totally back into my YA fantasy phase.
December 15, 2024
Masterfully executed story. A unique twist to fairies, and intriguing magic system.
July 5, 2024
OH MY GOODNESS!!!!! I LOVED this book!!!!!! I am now a Brittany Wang fan!!!!!
December 27, 2024
Brittany definitely pulls you into the story quick and continues to hold your attention the entire time! I love that though that world and fae she created are detailed and elaborate, it was easy to keep track of and learn about them. I never felt lost or overwhelmed, which can happen a lot especially in more high fantasy romances.
I loved that this had a lot of the same feel of the Hunger Games where you follow the main FMC, Quinn, as she not only battles the other 4 contestants but also the world as a whole. It always felt like high stakes and you ever knew who to trust.
I love that there was a slow burn romance where you get to see a lot of them together. Their banter with each other is perfect and I love that in so many ways they are complete opposites of each other.
Quinn is definitely like a porcupine who is at first hard to love. She definitely grows on you as you discover why she has hardened against others around her and how her upbringing has affected her now.
I absolutely loved the other contestants and getting to know them better too! Each one definitely has a special spot in my heart and you can’t help but want the best for them.
Overall if you are looking for a fantasy book with lots of banter, suspense, danger, mystery, magic, faeries, dragons and more with a subplot of romance give this one a go! And be sure to take notes because book 2 should be coming out in 2025 and you will be able to continue the journey to save the world with the faeries you come to love.
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (non descriptive kissing)
Mild language: 1 bast***, 1 dam*, 1 hel* and some in world swear words
Single POV Quinn’s
I loved that this had a lot of the same feel of the Hunger Games where you follow the main FMC, Quinn, as she not only battles the other 4 contestants but also the world as a whole. It always felt like high stakes and you ever knew who to trust.
I love that there was a slow burn romance where you get to see a lot of them together. Their banter with each other is perfect and I love that in so many ways they are complete opposites of each other.
Quinn is definitely like a porcupine who is at first hard to love. She definitely grows on you as you discover why she has hardened against others around her and how her upbringing has affected her now.
I absolutely loved the other contestants and getting to know them better too! Each one definitely has a special spot in my heart and you can’t help but want the best for them.
Overall if you are looking for a fantasy book with lots of banter, suspense, danger, mystery, magic, faeries, dragons and more with a subplot of romance give this one a go! And be sure to take notes because book 2 should be coming out in 2025 and you will be able to continue the journey to save the world with the faeries you come to love.
Physical Intimacy Level 2 (non descriptive kissing)
Mild language: 1 bast***, 1 dam*, 1 hel* and some in world swear words
Single POV Quinn’s
March 2, 2023
This story takes place in a violent, divided, and twisted rendition of something reminiscent of pixie hollow…and I loved it. I had my doubts when it started off with our female pirate captain (I’ve been burned too many times with this trope), but I was quickly proven wrong shortly after.
Quinn (our pirate captain) was very unique! She was strong and still kicked butt without being perfect or OP. She learned every step of the way and became this well rounded (though still imperfect) individual with her friends by the end of the book! She's a VERY relatable character and interesting to follow on her journey.
I LOVED the overall character development from every character along the way along with all the surprising twists and turns in the plot.
I am still raising an eyebrow about how Quinn managed her final stunt as a battle doesn’t seem to be the time or the place to be working through major emotional baggage. Then again, is there ever a convenient time or place to work though major emotional baggage outside of therapy? Who am I to judge if the battle field is better than my shower.
Aeron is the man. He’s a freaking rockstar.
Quinn (our pirate captain) was very unique! She was strong and still kicked butt without being perfect or OP. She learned every step of the way and became this well rounded (though still imperfect) individual with her friends by the end of the book! She's a VERY relatable character and interesting to follow on her journey.
I LOVED the overall character development from every character along the way along with all the surprising twists and turns in the plot.
I am still raising an eyebrow about how Quinn managed her final stunt as a battle doesn’t seem to be the time or the place to be working through major emotional baggage. Then again, is there ever a convenient time or place to work though major emotional baggage outside of therapy? Who am I to judge if the battle field is better than my shower.
Aeron is the man. He’s a freaking rockstar.
February 6, 2022
The world-building is so unique and fresh. The fae clan and their way of living was something I haven't read before. The world has magic, technology and it's so full.
What gripped me from the very beginning was the sister-brother relationship. My favourite scene is when we are introduced to them. In a short time author creates a strong relationship between both of them which then develops a strong desire for revenge in Quinn.
Quinn character is engaging. A strong head - brave - ambitious girl. She is a leader who always has a plan. She cares for her family and friends. And can do anything for them.
It's gripping and I love the pacing of the story. You have enough time to explore character relationships but you never feel like it's dragging. I appreciate that.
What gripped me from the very beginning was the sister-brother relationship. My favourite scene is when we are introduced to them. In a short time author creates a strong relationship between both of them which then develops a strong desire for revenge in Quinn.
Quinn character is engaging. A strong head - brave - ambitious girl. She is a leader who always has a plan. She cares for her family and friends. And can do anything for them.
It's gripping and I love the pacing of the story. You have enough time to explore character relationships but you never feel like it's dragging. I appreciate that.
October 12, 2021
On Wings of Ash and Dust is amazing! I loved every episode. I highly recommend this serial!
September 30, 2023
A great clean fantasy read that'll keep you guessing to the very end!
January 20, 2025
Wow! Wow! I definitely had a book hangover after this one. It is still living rent free in my head. Oh my gosh, it is so hard to put my love for this book into words. It was so good! Can I give it infinity stars?
I was hooked from the very beginning. It grabbed hold of me and wouldn't let go. Such great characters and world building!! The author brings you into the story so quickly and it was a fun, fast-paced adventure the entire time!
I didn't ever want to put it down because I wanted to see what happened next. There were so many twists, turns, and lots of fast-paced action that kept me on my toes the entire time. I was fascinated the entire time! The suspense and mystery was done so well. I loved how the author makes the reader think one thing and as things unfold, our preconceived thoughts are changed.
I loved the characters and their individuality so much! Aeron was such a fun character and contrasted so well with Quinn. Aeron was carefree and flirty and Quinn was strong and independent. Watching their tension and story unfold and their characters grow, held so many emotions. I loved watching the love bloom between the two of them.
The other competitors were so fun and unique in their own way and I loved how the author introduced them. The author did such a great job at slowing unfolding the character's profiles and their continued growth. Definitely kept things interesting. Loved all the found family vibes and the friendships that develop in the group.
The author has created a beautifully magical world and does such a wonderful job of describing all the new places she takes the reader. The author's writing and world building are so wonderfully descriptive! And I love how she included some great inspiration into her book.
This is definitely going to be at the top of my list for favorite books this year!
I was hooked from the very beginning. It grabbed hold of me and wouldn't let go. Such great characters and world building!! The author brings you into the story so quickly and it was a fun, fast-paced adventure the entire time!
I didn't ever want to put it down because I wanted to see what happened next. There were so many twists, turns, and lots of fast-paced action that kept me on my toes the entire time. I was fascinated the entire time! The suspense and mystery was done so well. I loved how the author makes the reader think one thing and as things unfold, our preconceived thoughts are changed.
I loved the characters and their individuality so much! Aeron was such a fun character and contrasted so well with Quinn. Aeron was carefree and flirty and Quinn was strong and independent. Watching their tension and story unfold and their characters grow, held so many emotions. I loved watching the love bloom between the two of them.
The other competitors were so fun and unique in their own way and I loved how the author introduced them. The author did such a great job at slowing unfolding the character's profiles and their continued growth. Definitely kept things interesting. Loved all the found family vibes and the friendships that develop in the group.
The author has created a beautifully magical world and does such a wonderful job of describing all the new places she takes the reader. The author's writing and world building are so wonderfully descriptive! And I love how she included some great inspiration into her book.
This is definitely going to be at the top of my list for favorite books this year!
February 6, 2025
Surprising. Very surprising. *thoughtful chin stroking*
I didn’t think I’d like a book about fAeRiEs, and I really didn’t think I’d like something with a title sounding that generic (“Ash” and “Dust” are most definitely on my list of Epic YA Romantasy Buzzwords)… but it eventually sucked me in.
I didn’t like the MC straight away, but over the course of the story I felt like I was getting to know her better until I could fully appreciate her depth and development. That was the case with all the characters actually—nobody had only one layer. All of them were unique and interesting people. I mean faeries. 🧚♀️
It’s really what got me into this book. You can have the most epic generic fantasy title and have a world full of cool winged warriors descended from dragons, but if your characters are tofu, then I don’t care one bit. Neither Quinn nor anyone else in this book was tofu. They were flavorful indeed and it made On Wings of Ash and Dust well worth the listen.
I didn’t think I’d like a book about fAeRiEs, and I really didn’t think I’d like something with a title sounding that generic (“Ash” and “Dust” are most definitely on my list of Epic YA Romantasy Buzzwords)… but it eventually sucked me in.
I didn’t like the MC straight away, but over the course of the story I felt like I was getting to know her better until I could fully appreciate her depth and development. That was the case with all the characters actually—nobody had only one layer. All of them were unique and interesting people. I mean faeries. 🧚♀️
It’s really what got me into this book. You can have the most epic generic fantasy title and have a world full of cool winged warriors descended from dragons, but if your characters are tofu, then I don’t care one bit. Neither Quinn nor anyone else in this book was tofu. They were flavorful indeed and it made On Wings of Ash and Dust well worth the listen.
December 14, 2024
Can I just say, WOW! The twists and turns Wang took me on during this journey were outstanding! As an author, I felt some parts coming, but this was beautifully crafted. The action scenes, the love scenes 🙈, and the plot! I loved Quinn and watching her build relationships and struggling to trust again after losing so much. She felt so relatable! And getting to know all the characters 🥹 Ahh and don’t even get me started on Aeron! 😍 Man his character was a Finnick indeed! I loved this book! Quite possibly a favorite book for this year of 2024! Or at least up there of top 3! Go read this book!!!
February 14, 2024
Amazing
Amazing book. I never knew what was coming. 100% will recommend to anyone. I can't wait for the next book.
Amazing book. I never knew what was coming. 100% will recommend to anyone. I can't wait for the next book.
February 22, 2024
a fantastic fairy story
I both read and listened to this book, and both were fantastic. The story, at first look, seems like one of a rebellious young fairy being forced to take part in trials for the crown — but the author quickly turns this trope into a deeper exploration of found family, troubled familial relationships, questions on the ethical use of magic, distortions of history, and a discussion on what is most valuable in a ruler. There’s a sweet romance and grand fantasy landscapes, and I enjoyed those, but the found family — I read for that. I read for how the bond of family empowered each of the main five characters to choose their own paths and forge their own fates. It was simply fantastic.
I should also add here that the narrator was spectacular. She used a wide mix of accents to give each character a unique voice, and she really brought animation to the drama of the story — there were places I was both reading and listening because I so enjoyed her narration.
Five-star recommendation of both the book and the audiobook!
I both read and listened to this book, and both were fantastic. The story, at first look, seems like one of a rebellious young fairy being forced to take part in trials for the crown — but the author quickly turns this trope into a deeper exploration of found family, troubled familial relationships, questions on the ethical use of magic, distortions of history, and a discussion on what is most valuable in a ruler. There’s a sweet romance and grand fantasy landscapes, and I enjoyed those, but the found family — I read for that. I read for how the bond of family empowered each of the main five characters to choose their own paths and forge their own fates. It was simply fantastic.
I should also add here that the narrator was spectacular. She used a wide mix of accents to give each character a unique voice, and she really brought animation to the drama of the story — there were places I was both reading and listening because I so enjoyed her narration.
Five-star recommendation of both the book and the audiobook!
August 7, 2024
Like a fantasy hunger games type book!
March 11, 2025
It was a good read with no spice, but I wasn’t super invested in the story or the characters. I wouldn’t recommend this book for my age range but definitely for a younger audience
November 22, 2023
Oh my gosh, this book was amazing. I went into it with zero expectations and I am ASTOUNDED and BEGGING FOR A SECOND BOOK. The plot was action-packed and left me on the edge of my seat with every page. The characters were so well-written I felt like I KNEW them in real life. And the ending? I’m dying for a sequel!! I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS NEXT!
March 19, 2025
Hunger Games meets Pixie Hollow vibes for sure. What a journey. But the pucks and pixies we met along the way were worth it. I was hooked.
February 10, 2024
I loved this book soo much! It has such a beautiful plot with amazing characters. The slow burn/ he fell first but she fell harder romance was spot on!
February 20, 2024
HAD ME ON MY TOES, MADE ME QUESTION MY SANITY, AND HAD ME GIGGLING AND KICKING 😭😭
Idk what I expected from the book when I was asked to co-read this, but it definitely surpassed all expectations.
I was really craving a good fantasy book with a nice slow burn romance, with lots of action, trouble and mystery, and this was IT.
Idk what I expected from the book when I was asked to co-read this, but it definitely surpassed all expectations.
I was really craving a good fantasy book with a nice slow burn romance, with lots of action, trouble and mystery, and this was IT.
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