Book review of Elven Council In Ashes

by K J Dawson (Author)

Updated at: 26/02/2025

In K.J. Dawson's Elven Council in Ashes, the second book in the Realms of Alysatree duology, the stakes are higher than ever. Ivy, trapped in a hostile realm, fights to retain her magic and uncover the Elven Council's treacherous plot that threatens both humans and mythical beings. Meanwhile, Orion, finally achieving his ambition within the royal court, grapples with conflicting loyalties – his newfound power and his love for Ivy. Old hatreds resurface, and a deadly poison spreads, forcing Ivy and Orion to confront their deepest fears and make impossible choices. Their love may be the key to salvation, but it could also be their undoing. This captivating tale of love, loyalty, and sacrifice explores themes of redemption and the fight for a brighter future.

Elven Council In Ashes (Realms of Alysatree)

4.6 / 7 ratings

Review Elven Council In Ashes

Oh my goodness, Elven Council in Ashes completely swept me away! As a massive fan of the first book, I was both excited and nervous to see how KJ Dawson would wrap up Ivy and Orion's story, and let me tell you, it exceeded all expectations. This isn't just a satisfying conclusion; it's an epic conclusion, a whirlwind of intrigue, suspense, and swoon-worthy romance that kept me breathless until the very last page.

The emotional rollercoaster this book takes you on is phenomenal. One moment you're gasping at a shocking plot twist, the next you're melting into a puddle of happy tears over a sweet romantic scene. The foreshadowing is subtly brilliant; Dawson expertly plants clues without giving anything away too easily, leaving you surprised yet completely satisfied with how everything unfolds. I loved how the stakes felt consistently high, and the tension between Ivy and Orion, both with each other and the external forces threatening their worlds, was palpable. It was a perfect blend of slow-burn and explosive passion, perfectly reflecting the dangerous circumstances they faced.

But it wasn't just Ivy and Orion who shone. This book beautifully fleshes out the supporting characters, giving us deeper insights into their motivations and struggles. Magdud, in particular, completely stole the show for me! Her sharp wit, loyalty, and strength made her an instant favorite, and I desperately want more stories featuring her. The expansion of perspectives added layers of complexity and depth to the narrative, enriching the overall experience. I found myself genuinely invested in the fate of everyone involved, not just the main couple.

The world-building is simply breathtaking. The Alysatree lore and history are woven so seamlessly into the narrative, creating a rich and immersive world that feels both fantastical and believable. It’s the kind of world you want to lose yourself in, exploring its hidden corners and uncovering its secrets. While the story ends definitively for Ivy and Orion, the details and tantalizing hints left me wanting more—more of this world, more of these characters, more of everything! That teaser chapter at the end? Pure torture! I need the next book now.

Beyond the epic fantasy elements, the book also explores themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the power of love and loyalty in the face of overwhelming odds. It's a story about fighting for what you believe in, finding contentment amidst chaos, and discovering that even the greatest sacrifices can lead to happily ever afters. It’s a testament to the power of perseverance and the strength of human (and Elven!) spirit. While there are some intense moments, including brief violence, it remains a clean romance, focusing more on the emotional journey than graphic descriptions. Honestly, the only thing I wanted to do was grab some of the villainous characters and give them a good shake (maybe a whack with a candlestick in the fae library... okay, maybe two).

In short, Elven Council in Ashes is a masterful conclusion to a captivating duology. It's a must-read for fans of epic fantasy romance, and even if you're new to the series, I highly recommend diving in. Just be prepared to have your heart captivated, your emotions stirred, and your desire for more ignited. This book is an unforgettable experience from start to finish.