From the very first page, Taylor’s writing transports you to a whole new world, weaving together breathtaking world-building and gripping storytelling that had me instantly hooked. I binged this book in record time, completely immersed in its magic, politics, and intrigue. If you love ACOTAR and Game of Thrones, this is a must-read!

Deya’s character development throughout the book is both devastating and empowering. As a healer in Praiton (a kingdom that has spent years overthrowing others) Deya simply wants to be accepted. But her rare talents set her apart, making her a target. When tragedy strikes, betrayal leaves her in an unimaginable situation. However, through newfound abilities and unlikely allies, she begins to rebuild her life, only to discover that the world is far different from what she believed. The friendships and character dynamics in this book are everything! Deya's journey is shaped by the people around her, including a not-so-friendly male whose presence challenges her in unexpected ways. The slow-burn romance, enemies-to-lovers tension, and secret royalty trope had me absolutely hooked. The emotional rollercoaster these characters go through, from betrayal to self-discovery, had me feeling every moment right alongside them.

Victoria K. Taylor knows exactly how to craft a compelling story with multi-faceted characters that leave you wanting more. I devoured this book in 24 hours, yet I found myself thinking about Deya, Caelum, and Val long after I turned the last page. Without a doubt, A Crown of Star & Ash is one of my top reads of the year, a truly unputdownable fantasy adventure!

A Crown of Star & Ash (The Fate of Ashes Book 1)

Victoria K. Taylor