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The Ember War #2
Lies That Bind
When empires fall, love is the ultimate sacrifice.
When Aisling ascends the throne as empress, the weight of the crown is heavier than she ever imagined. Her father’s brutal murder leaves her with two burning purposes: find the killer and make them pay.
But her quest for vengeance leads to an act of retaliation that shifts the tides of war—and awakens a formidable new enemy.
Through the chaos, Kohen is her anchor. His unwavering love and loyalty are the only constants in her life. Yet when a shocking revelation emerges, Aisling is forced to question everything she believed to be true—even the bond she thought unbreakable.
In a world where trust is a fragile weapon, can Aisling hold her empire together, or will her pursuit of justice cost her everything?
Book two in the Ember War Series.
When Aisling ascends the throne as empress, the weight of the crown is heavier than she ever imagined. Her father’s brutal murder leaves her with two burning purposes: find the killer and make them pay.
But her quest for vengeance leads to an act of retaliation that shifts the tides of war—and awakens a formidable new enemy.
Through the chaos, Kohen is her anchor. His unwavering love and loyalty are the only constants in her life. Yet when a shocking revelation emerges, Aisling is forced to question everything she believed to be true—even the bond she thought unbreakable.
In a world where trust is a fragile weapon, can Aisling hold her empire together, or will her pursuit of justice cost her everything?
Book two in the Ember War Series.
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2024
702 people are currently reading
1,030 people want to read
About the author
Leia Stone
128books6,079followersLeia Stone is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple bestselling series including Matefinder and Wolf Girl. She's sold over two million books and her Fallen Academy series has been optioned for film. Her novels have been translated into five languages and she even dabbles in script writing. Leia writes urban fantasy and paranormal romance with sassy kick-butt heroines and irresistible love interests. She lives in Spokane, WA with her husband and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
January 3, 2025
I've been waiting on this sequel since the moment I finished book one when it was first released and it did not disappoint. I loved that it picked back up right where book one left off. Aishling is such a strong and independent FMC that is now the young Empress to her country. Which of course, complicates her having a hidden romance with Kohen, who should be her sworn enemy. Kohen has sworn his loyalty to her, has expressed his deep love for her, and is the epitome of touch her and die. These two shouldn't work, but I am rooting for them despite everything that happens in this book. The betrayal was brutal and the cliff hanger was even more brutal. I audibly gasped when I realized I reached the ending and had to wait months to see what happens next. I was on the edge of my seat while reading this one. 15/10 was the perfect sequel to the story and I literally cannot wait until book three. June cannot come fast enough!
December 29, 2024
Thank you Leia for allowing me to ARC read Lies that bind!!! (One of the best things to happen to me in 2024!!!) Lies that bleed is one of my fav reads of 2024 so I knew I was going to love this one & Leia is my favourite author🫶🏽
First off by starting..Leia recaps at the beginning of this book what happens in book 1!!!👏🏽👏🏽
The way the story flows straight from how book 1 ended just instantly has you zoned into the story.
There is something about Leia’s writing style that will have you pulled in & instantly wanting to continue reading. This story is action packed & filled with a story line that flows so well. The world building never feels over whelming & it’s an easy quick fast pace read.
This book is also on the shorter side but Leia still fills it with action packed scenes & like I said, it just flows! You won’t ever be bored reading one of Leia’s books. Trust me.
The switch up between our FMC & MMC - gosh I don’t think I want to know where we are going next or not?! I best prepare my heart for this😳 - but I absolutely love them both & I could read about them forever tbh.
It didn’t give me the 5 star feeling whilst reading I was expecting HOWEVER, it could have been a 5 star read for me if I read it another sensible time/I know I could give this 5 stars for an amazing story, world building & doing the tropes how they should be done👏🏽. I have read so many of Leia’s books & I just knew how the plot was going (which btw, is INCREDIBLE & ONE OF MY FAV’S EVER) so this is just for me as a reader.. and not for the book it’s self? If that makes sense.
This is an incredible series & I can’t wait to find out where book 3 goes. The ending of book 2 will have you questioning many things!!!
THANK YOU LEIA🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
First off by starting..Leia recaps at the beginning of this book what happens in book 1!!!👏🏽👏🏽
The way the story flows straight from how book 1 ended just instantly has you zoned into the story.
There is something about Leia’s writing style that will have you pulled in & instantly wanting to continue reading. This story is action packed & filled with a story line that flows so well. The world building never feels over whelming & it’s an easy quick fast pace read.
This book is also on the shorter side but Leia still fills it with action packed scenes & like I said, it just flows! You won’t ever be bored reading one of Leia’s books. Trust me.
The switch up between our FMC & MMC - gosh I don’t think I want to know where we are going next or not?! I best prepare my heart for this😳 - but I absolutely love them both & I could read about them forever tbh.
It didn’t give me the 5 star feeling whilst reading I was expecting HOWEVER, it could have been a 5 star read for me if I read it another sensible time/I know I could give this 5 stars for an amazing story, world building & doing the tropes how they should be done👏🏽. I have read so many of Leia’s books & I just knew how the plot was going (which btw, is INCREDIBLE & ONE OF MY FAV’S EVER) so this is just for me as a reader.. and not for the book it’s self? If that makes sense.
This is an incredible series & I can’t wait to find out where book 3 goes. The ending of book 2 will have you questioning many things!!!
THANK YOU LEIA🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷
December 29, 2024
Consumed this in one sitting. The BETRAYAL has me in a chokehold currently. I need book three immediately.
February 12, 2025
DNF’d at 35%
I cannot stand this anymore. The writing style isn’t for me and the FMC is impulsive and childish. The dynamic between both her and the MMC is grating. Everyone blows smoke up her ass for literally breathing and I’m completely over it.
It gets 2 stars because Id feel bad for giving it 1 when I couldn’t finish it.
I cannot stand this anymore. The writing style isn’t for me and the FMC is impulsive and childish. The dynamic between both her and the MMC is grating. Everyone blows smoke up her ass for literally breathing and I’m completely over it.
It gets 2 stars because Id feel bad for giving it 1 when I couldn’t finish it.
December 28, 2024
Well needless to say BINGED this on release day!! 🤩
I didn’t know what to expect from this one being just over 200 pages as I felt that the end of book 1 was slightly rushed but for the length of the book everything contributed to the story well and there was plenty packed in there, however I have been left wanting more asap!! � HOW do I get on the ARC team for book 3?!🤣😭
I cannot wait to see where the story goes next, I’m rooting for character development from our FMC, following Kohen’s visions we know it’s coming but I’m not excited for the war along the way🥲 and I feel like Maxim is going to be a really interesting character I’m looking forward to learning more about him�
All of Leia’s books I’ve read are so gripping and fast paced but this series truly has me in a chokehold!! Counting down the days until I can read book 3🤭
4.25⭐️
I didn’t know what to expect from this one being just over 200 pages as I felt that the end of book 1 was slightly rushed but for the length of the book everything contributed to the story well and there was plenty packed in there, however I have been left wanting more asap!! � HOW do I get on the ARC team for book 3?!🤣😭
I cannot wait to see where the story goes next, I’m rooting for character development from our FMC, following Kohen’s visions we know it’s coming but I’m not excited for the war along the way🥲 and I feel like Maxim is going to be a really interesting character I’m looking forward to learning more about him�
All of Leia’s books I’ve read are so gripping and fast paced but this series truly has me in a chokehold!! Counting down the days until I can read book 3🤭
4.25⭐️
December 29, 2024
Starting off the book we get a solid recap of book 1. Remembering were we left our brave lead Aisling. I love Leia Stones writing style fast paced and action filled but easy to follow along. Aisling comes to terms with her fathers death but now faces being a leader and still remaining our spunky lead character. Without giving spoilers the book continues on with Aisling and Kohens secret love while Aisling trys to find out her fathers murderer and seek revenge for the attack on her city. I cant wait for book 3 as this leaves off with a cliffhanger of all cliffhangers. Wanting to cry and continue with the story to see if Aisling can stay strong to who she is or lose it all.
December 9, 2024
This picks up straight from book 1. I loved this book great captivating story. You got to see more of the characters, and it was nice seeing Aisling soften more from the strong, conditioned soldier/heiress from book 1. However, the ending broke my heart a little.
Seeing more of Kohen makes you love him more, but I think he could have done things differently, and what he had done in the end was unforgivable. There is action, plenty of chemistry, and good character development.
Seeing more of Kohen makes you love him more, but I think he could have done things differently, and what he had done in the end was unforgivable. There is action, plenty of chemistry, and good character development.
March 10, 2025
I adored this book!!! I remember loving book one SO much and I just have been behind on getting to the rest of the trilogy. I’m so glad I picked it back up. These books are short and sweet but are packed with action and tension. If you’re a Fourth Wing girly or even a ToG these books are definitely up your alley!
December 30, 2024
a 6 star read
Leia Stone has become my favorite author of 2024! I’ve read two of her other series this year and can’t wait for the conclusion of this one! If you aren’t reading her books your should be!
Leia Stone has become my favorite author of 2024! I’ve read two of her other series this year and can’t wait for the conclusion of this one! If you aren’t reading her books your should be!
December 28, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This series is becoming one of my all time favs!
This series is becoming one of my all time favs!
January 13, 2025
Fantastic read!!!
OMFG this second book was epic! A roller coaster of actions, lies, emotions and more. I can't wait for the next one. A definite must-read!
OMFG this second book was epic! A roller coaster of actions, lies, emotions and more. I can't wait for the next one. A definite must-read!
January 17, 2025
I didn’t love this one as much as the first, but still genuinely enjoyed it and am looking forward to the release of the third book! If you like Fourth Wing/Hunger Games, you’d enjoy this series!
January 23, 2025
WHAT??? A third book 😭😭😭😭 noooooooo
February 7, 2025
Even though it wasn't nearly as spell-binding as the first, it still gets my five stars. I read this in under 14hours. That's even including the hours I was asleep so probably more like five hours. I cannot wait until JUNE for the third installment. PLEASE.
March 1, 2025
A few gripes with this book. First, Kohen. Like, everything about him. He and Aisling have no real anything. They just are because he says they are in the future. Like, what? And literally all Kohen *is* is his future sight. Every single scene. "I saw this", "you should do this because I saw it in the future".
Second, Aisling's blind loyalty to her father. Even when she's confronted over and over with evidence that her father may not have been the man she thought he was, she completely disregards it.
Second, Aisling's blind loyalty to her father. Even when she's confronted over and over with evidence that her father may not have been the man she thought he was, she completely disregards it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2024
ARC (Advance Reader Copy )
Review of Lies That Bind by Leia Stone Book 2 in the Ember War Series
Rating: 4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lies That Bind completely hooked me from start to finish! This sequel surpassed the first book for me: action-packed plot, emotional tension, and good character development. At just 210 pages, it’s shorter than the first installment’s 412 pages, but every moment is intense and gripping. I couldn’t put it down! 💖
‼️Important note if you wonder about the racism and negativity towards Kohens people and how unreflected Aisling sometimes is a note from Leia herself for the previous book:
Back to the book review ! 👀
Let’s talk about Aisling. She’s fierce, stubborn, and has so much growth ahead—but seeing her struggle to balance duty and personal freedom made her feel incredibly real.
Kohen is officially Book Boyfriend Material™—loyal, protective, and emotionally supportive. Seeing more of his backstory and family added so much depth to his character. 😍 However, his tendency to hint at future events without elaborating was frustrating at times. Aisling’s exasperation mirrored my own—why say something if you’re not going to explain it?
Elaine and Liana? Absolutely loved seeing more of them! Liana’s mysterious past needs way more exploration—I’m dying to know what she’s experienced in her long life.🕵️♀�
The emotional stakes were high, and Aisling’s journey felt authentic—especially how she slowly questions her father’s legacy rather than having one sudden insight. Her growth is far from over, and I need to see how she evolves in the next book!
That said, the shorter length left me wanting more time in this world. Expanding certain scenes could have made the impactful moments even stronger. I could’ve spent so much more time in this world! 📖
Lies That Bind isn’t without its flaws—it’s shorter than it could be, and some character dynamics felt underexplored. However, it’s still an emotionally rich story about loyalty, trust, and finding your place in a world full of lies and betrayal. Fans of action-packed fantasy with a dash of romance will enjoy this book, though they might wish for a bit more depth in the storytelling.
I’m counting down the days until Book 3—bring on the next adventure! �
Review of Lies That Bind by Leia Stone Book 2 in the Ember War Series
Rating: 4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I only want what you’re willing to give. And if you take it away at any moment, that’s okay, too. I want you on your terms, Aisling."
� Kohen
Lies That Bind completely hooked me from start to finish! This sequel surpassed the first book for me: action-packed plot, emotional tension, and good character development. At just 210 pages, it’s shorter than the first installment’s 412 pages, but every moment is intense and gripping. I couldn’t put it down! 💖
‼️Important note if you wonder about the racism and negativity towards Kohens people and how unreflected Aisling sometimes is a note from Leia herself for the previous book:
"I don't normally comment back to or read reviews as I want this to feel like a safe space for readers. However I did want to mention that my husband of 14 years is from India and I intentionally wrote everything in the book the way I did so that in later books it will show how brainwashed Aisling has been towards different cultures.Personal sidenote: I know that Leia even asked people with disabilities for feedback for one of the characters. Showing she really cares and takes representation seriously.
P.S. my hubby smells of cardamom and ginger and my Matefinder book has an Indian MC as well. I write what I'm living. =) He's my inspiration for all my book boyfriends." - Leia Stone
Back to the book review ! 👀
Let’s talk about Aisling. She’s fierce, stubborn, and has so much growth ahead—but seeing her struggle to balance duty and personal freedom made her feel incredibly real.
A mask of anger crossed his face, but I held firm. He would always see me as the little kid who dated his son if I didn’t show him who I really was—that if you peeled back my skin, you’d find steel and concrete. I wasn’t soft, and he couldn’t intimidate me.
Kohen is officially Book Boyfriend Material™—loyal, protective, and emotionally supportive. Seeing more of his backstory and family added so much depth to his character. 😍 However, his tendency to hint at future events without elaborating was frustrating at times. Aisling’s exasperation mirrored my own—why say something if you’re not going to explain it?
“I’m praying to every star in the sky that you know that every cell in my body aches for you. All the time we’ll spend apart, I will be thinking of nothing but you.”� He cupped my face in his hands: “Aisling, if you remember anything of me, please remember that everything I do is to protect you.�
Elaine and Liana? Absolutely loved seeing more of them! Liana’s mysterious past needs way more exploration—I’m dying to know what she’s experienced in her long life.🕵️♀�
The emotional stakes were high, and Aisling’s journey felt authentic—especially how she slowly questions her father’s legacy rather than having one sudden insight. Her growth is far from over, and I need to see how she evolves in the next book!
That said, the shorter length left me wanting more time in this world. Expanding certain scenes could have made the impactful moments even stronger. I could’ve spent so much more time in this world! 📖
Lies That Bind isn’t without its flaws—it’s shorter than it could be, and some character dynamics felt underexplored. However, it’s still an emotionally rich story about loyalty, trust, and finding your place in a world full of lies and betrayal. Fans of action-packed fantasy with a dash of romance will enjoy this book, though they might wish for a bit more depth in the storytelling.
I’m counting down the days until Book 3—bring on the next adventure! �
January 1, 2025
Ugh!! Like I saw this coming! I did. There was foreshadowing. But dang it!! I didn’t want it! My heart is ripped out, stomped on, and bleeding. Then the ending!! OMG!!!! UGH, I DONT WANT THAT EITHER!!! Well needless to say Im shook. So immediately after finishing the book, I go to see when book 3 comes out (because obviously Im going to need it as of now). Oh, we have a wait! A long wait!!! Anyways, fantastic book just like book 1. Be prepared for some emotional damage by the end of the book.
This Fantasy Romance is book 2 in The Ember War series. The romance in this book is a angsty forbidden romance. The book does have some spicy suggestions, and language but the book remains over all clean. The book moves at a steady pace following Aisling as she deals with the struggles, and expectations of becoming the new empress. Even though she knows her people will never accept him, Aisling cant seem to push Kohen away. He has been by her side throughout all of her grief, fears, and frustrations. In her fragile position a strong enemy emerges, as well as the end of the search for her fathers murderer. With these new developments Aisling might find a truth that will shatter everything she had came to depend rely on. This book is a wonderful, and devastating addition to book 1, and leaves you wanting for more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶�
This Fantasy Romance is book 2 in The Ember War series. The romance in this book is a angsty forbidden romance. The book does have some spicy suggestions, and language but the book remains over all clean. The book moves at a steady pace following Aisling as she deals with the struggles, and expectations of becoming the new empress. Even though she knows her people will never accept him, Aisling cant seem to push Kohen away. He has been by her side throughout all of her grief, fears, and frustrations. In her fragile position a strong enemy emerges, as well as the end of the search for her fathers murderer. With these new developments Aisling might find a truth that will shatter everything she had came to depend rely on. This book is a wonderful, and devastating addition to book 1, and leaves you wanting for more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶�
December 4, 2024
Lies That Bind is the second book in The Ember War series from Leia Stone. I was obsessed with this book from the beginning, especially because it includes an extremely solid recap of the first book before picking up immediately after the first book. Honestly more fantasy books need to include a recap like this, because sometimes it can be hard to recall things that have happened.
I felt like this book really progressed our character development forward. Aisling finds herself suddenly in a new role and has to adapt really fast to the situation. Tensions are growing throughout the land and it is imperative that Aisling is seen as a strong leader. Aisling and Kohen do develop their relationship further, but they also have to navigate what is means for Aisling to be seen with the son of her father’s enemy. I really loved the balance between the character development and plot advancement.
The story is a fast and action packed read. It has a nice pacing and I found myself unable to put it down. While the first book ended on an unexpected cliffhanger, I feel like Lies that Bind took the cliffhanger to the next level. I was absolutely gobsmacked and need book 3 in my hands immediately!
Thank you to Leia Stone for gifting me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
I felt like this book really progressed our character development forward. Aisling finds herself suddenly in a new role and has to adapt really fast to the situation. Tensions are growing throughout the land and it is imperative that Aisling is seen as a strong leader. Aisling and Kohen do develop their relationship further, but they also have to navigate what is means for Aisling to be seen with the son of her father’s enemy. I really loved the balance between the character development and plot advancement.
The story is a fast and action packed read. It has a nice pacing and I found myself unable to put it down. While the first book ended on an unexpected cliffhanger, I feel like Lies that Bind took the cliffhanger to the next level. I was absolutely gobsmacked and need book 3 in my hands immediately!
Thank you to Leia Stone for gifting me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2024
Whoa! This is a ride from the very beginning! Aisling, our strong female lead, was dealt a hard blow at the end of book one. She ascends to the throne and is now Empress-with the weight of her country, its people and this war on her back. Vengeance is what she is after for her father’s murder and she won’t stop until she gets it. Then there is Kohen and there for her, every step of the way. This enemy who has become more, even if she isn’t sure what that is yet. The action is again on point in this second installment of this series. Bonds previously formed begin to strengthen, trust is earned, new evil comes forward and the threat of life lost is very real. I felt like I was teetering on the edge of my seat, quickly turning pages to find out what was coming next. Then Leia in all her author glory, lobs another fireball our way!!! Trust again is broken. Lies start to come to truth and Aisling is left scrambling emotionally to figure out if it was all a ruse. Anger, fear, heartbreak-all teetering in the edge of the shoulders of the young woman who had to hold an empire together.
I am now a hot mess and I love it! Leia has created a fantastic world in this series and I am craving the final book!
I am now a hot mess and I love it! Leia has created a fantastic world in this series and I am craving the final book!
December 30, 2024
🐉🔥 YES YES ALL THE YESES! 🔥🐉
I wasn’t expecting much from this series but DEAR GOD has it racked up the intensity level in this book (book 2)!
This one follows Aisling and her becoming empress while dealing with the impending war from the leadership standpoint apposed to an heir. We see a lot of her and Kohen and their developing powers/relationship, which is fab and written really well.
The plot on this one is so much better than the first in my opinion, the pace is great, there’s explanation’s for everything and reasons why, which I love ❤️ .
The mix between Kohen using his power and giving Aisling pieces of information while not giving the full picture makes you so mad in the best way 😤, honestly wanted to scream at my kindle at times!
For a second book on the series I was expecting it to end on a cliff hanger but OH MY GOOD GOD is it a cliffhanger 🗻! Like you will do a complete 180 on a certain character even though I’m pretty sure there was good reason behind it be warned 😳😳😳.
Overall, so glad I continued the series and read this, highly recommend, it’s a quick read but you will be engrossed in it!
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice - 0.5🌶�/5
I wasn’t expecting much from this series but DEAR GOD has it racked up the intensity level in this book (book 2)!
This one follows Aisling and her becoming empress while dealing with the impending war from the leadership standpoint apposed to an heir. We see a lot of her and Kohen and their developing powers/relationship, which is fab and written really well.
The plot on this one is so much better than the first in my opinion, the pace is great, there’s explanation’s for everything and reasons why, which I love ❤️ .
The mix between Kohen using his power and giving Aisling pieces of information while not giving the full picture makes you so mad in the best way 😤, honestly wanted to scream at my kindle at times!
For a second book on the series I was expecting it to end on a cliff hanger but OH MY GOOD GOD is it a cliffhanger 🗻! Like you will do a complete 180 on a certain character even though I’m pretty sure there was good reason behind it be warned 😳😳😳.
Overall, so glad I continued the series and read this, highly recommend, it’s a quick read but you will be engrossed in it!
Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5
Spice - 0.5🌶�/5
December 31, 2024
This book starts right were it left on book 1, and amazingly the author provides a recap with the main points to keep in mind so you don't have to re-read before book 2. The story is well-paced and the world-building improved. It comes with a map so you can situate each country.
I really enjoyed this book, the dynamics and Aisling's transformation into an empress is well described, you do feel part of that journey in which she grows into a powerful woman that questions the way things have always been done and actually wants to challenge and transform them so everyone gets peace.
There are a few annoying matters, though, she becomes very repetitive in terms of revenge, betrayal, and stubborness... in the end I just couldn't with her, she became enraged and wouldn't listen, she automatically assumed the worst (just as Kohen predicted), and in at least two occasions she gets so impulsive that makes me question the growth she had acquired throughout both books. I hope in book 3 her character is written more consistently because she is totally awesome, she is the leader everyone would like to have as a ruler.
I really enjoyed this book, the dynamics and Aisling's transformation into an empress is well described, you do feel part of that journey in which she grows into a powerful woman that questions the way things have always been done and actually wants to challenge and transform them so everyone gets peace.
There are a few annoying matters, though, she becomes very repetitive in terms of revenge, betrayal, and stubborness... in the end I just couldn't with her, she became enraged and wouldn't listen, she automatically assumed the worst (just as Kohen predicted), and in at least two occasions she gets so impulsive that makes me question the growth she had acquired throughout both books. I hope in book 3 her character is written more consistently because she is totally awesome, she is the leader everyone would like to have as a ruler.
January 3, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ (Rounded to 5)
Aww, what an incredible follow up to Lies That Bleed! Lies that Bind, is book 2 in the Ember War series and is just as incredible as book 1.
I love that the book picked up right where we left off in Lies That Bleed. She also includes a recap of book 1 in the beginning, which is fantastic!!
This book is jam packed with action that will leave you with heart palpitations!! The story just flows so effortlessly and truly pulls you in. The world building is so vivid and breathtaking to experience through words. But Aisling, the FMC, really gets put through the wringer trying to find her niche as the new Empress. The betrayal she is handed by Kohen is so heartbreaking. But, I feel there is more to come for the readers in the next book. I really feel like it’s not all what it seems. However, it stings pretty bad in the meantime because she was finally ready to admit her feelings towards him.
All in all, this was a terrific book! It’s on the shorter side, but full of action, drama and tension nonetheless. It’s an easy fast paced read and will definitely leave you yearning for more by the end. I am eagerly awaiting book 3 to see where the story takes us.
Aww, what an incredible follow up to Lies That Bleed! Lies that Bind, is book 2 in the Ember War series and is just as incredible as book 1.
I love that the book picked up right where we left off in Lies That Bleed. She also includes a recap of book 1 in the beginning, which is fantastic!!
This book is jam packed with action that will leave you with heart palpitations!! The story just flows so effortlessly and truly pulls you in. The world building is so vivid and breathtaking to experience through words. But Aisling, the FMC, really gets put through the wringer trying to find her niche as the new Empress. The betrayal she is handed by Kohen is so heartbreaking. But, I feel there is more to come for the readers in the next book. I really feel like it’s not all what it seems. However, it stings pretty bad in the meantime because she was finally ready to admit her feelings towards him.
All in all, this was a terrific book! It’s on the shorter side, but full of action, drama and tension nonetheless. It’s an easy fast paced read and will definitely leave you yearning for more by the end. I am eagerly awaiting book 3 to see where the story takes us.
January 3, 2025
Leia Stone is a master writer of emotional warfare. I swear every time I read on of her books and think it can’t be any worse than such and such book she proves me wrong. I don’t know how we come back from this ending. How does Aisling make it back to Kohen now!!!!! Such a sweet love story that just rips the heart out at the end. Masterfully crafted world that you can’t help but be drawn into. The plot line moved really fast we got thru the ending of the first books plot at a sprint and the next part of the plot unfolded equally as fast. I’m always worried that a plot like is going to be sluggish but Leia does a fantastic job of moving right along. Super big fan of Aisling and Elaine. I would be remiss to say that I’m a little dissappointed in Kohen at the end of this book though. He has some redemption groveling to do!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
For one of my most anticipated releases for 2025, this was such a disappointment. It’s got the worst case of middle book syndrome. Nothing even happens in here! And there are two reveals, which take up most of the book, and one I’m pretty sure we already knew in the last book. Why was this such a shock and big thing? It’s not new information. And our MC is given the instructions on how to verify everything, and doesn’t do it. It’s pretty much: you’re now empress. Here’s a checklist of administration things that need doing. And then the book ends the next day. (Okay, it actually takes place over a week. But it’s a week where very little happens).
February 11, 2025
A 3.75 Star Story.⭐️
Lies That Bind: The Ember War, Book 2
By: Leia Stone
🎧 Audiobook Narrated by: Vanessa Moyen
Length: 5 hrs and 56 mins
📖 Ebook Read Using Kindle Unlimited
This is a good audiobook. The narrator did a really good job.⭐️
Aisling gets called out by her firebird, her best friend, and her 'boyfriend' about her prejudices.🎉 She starts to question how her father ruled and his attitudes, which she'd like to start to change.👏 I wanted to cheer her on. She stood up to the admirals and generals when they tried to push her and Elaine around, I was so relieved. Then something huge happens, which is kind of obvious, and she caves like a sandcastle.🤦🏻♀� I was back to disappointment.🥺
I'm glad this is a 3 book series rather than more, or I'd get really annoyed with her. It was a definite improvement on book 1, though.
Debbie, 1970, UK
Lies That Bind: The Ember War, Book 2
By: Leia Stone
🎧 Audiobook Narrated by: Vanessa Moyen
Length: 5 hrs and 56 mins
📖 Ebook Read Using Kindle Unlimited
This is a good audiobook. The narrator did a really good job.⭐️
Aisling gets called out by her firebird, her best friend, and her 'boyfriend' about her prejudices.🎉 She starts to question how her father ruled and his attitudes, which she'd like to start to change.👏 I wanted to cheer her on. She stood up to the admirals and generals when they tried to push her and Elaine around, I was so relieved. Then something huge happens, which is kind of obvious, and she caves like a sandcastle.🤦🏻♀� I was back to disappointment.🥺
I'm glad this is a 3 book series rather than more, or I'd get really annoyed with her. It was a definite improvement on book 1, though.
Debbie, 1970, UK
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July 24, 2024Absolutely amazing in every way!! The main leads😍 Aisling is everything you want in a female lead, powerful and strong and loves her people with everything!! She isn’t annoying at all which is a huge win!!! KOHEN 😍😍😍. 100% new book boyfriend and man his character is everything!! He projects his people and goes after what he wants and is so kind in a rough exterior way. I need the second book out now!!!
It does end with a cliff hanger but not in a way that will leave you going crazy till December but also enough to where I am so excited for the end of the year to come so the second book comes out! 100% need more of Kohen and Aisling and have no doubts it’s gonna be a little rough to see it all play out, but in the best way! (I hope 💙)
It does end with a cliff hanger but not in a way that will leave you going crazy till December but also enough to where I am so excited for the end of the year to come so the second book comes out! 100% need more of Kohen and Aisling and have no doubts it’s gonna be a little rough to see it all play out, but in the best way! (I hope 💙)
December 15, 2024
This is better than the first! I couldn't put the book down. With the blurb, I was nervous I wouldn't like this one. However, this book is amazing. It picks right up where book 1 left off, and it kept me hooked all the way through. The next thing I knew, I basically read the book in one sitting.
I love Kohen and Ashling's sense of humor, and I loved being able to see a different side of Ashling in this book. It was nice to get to see past her cold exterior. I liked that this story made me laugh, I had a good time reading it. I can't wait to see what happens next, and how Kohen and Ash will handle the challenges that lie ahead.
I wish the story was a bit longer, I really want to read more. This leaves on a huge cliffhanger.
I highly recommend this series, it is really good. She made it easy to pick up where you left off, and you're not trying to remember things from book 1. However Part of me wished that I reread book 1 and then read book 2 just to get the full experience.
I love Kohen and Ashling's sense of humor, and I loved being able to see a different side of Ashling in this book. It was nice to get to see past her cold exterior. I liked that this story made me laugh, I had a good time reading it. I can't wait to see what happens next, and how Kohen and Ash will handle the challenges that lie ahead.
I wish the story was a bit longer, I really want to read more. This leaves on a huge cliffhanger.
I highly recommend this series, it is really good. She made it easy to pick up where you left off, and you're not trying to remember things from book 1. However Part of me wished that I reread book 1 and then read book 2 just to get the full experience.
December 28, 2024
Gripping and emotional
I was watching the release date of this book and I inhaled it in one go on release day. This book has it all: world building, believable characters, political intrigue, action. The romantic plot is embedded in the overall story rather than dominating it. There is so much longing, and some moments where I squirmed behind my hand with emotion. Considering I normally like my romantasy with spice and there is virtually none here, I am not one bit mad about it! Read the previous book and this one and thank me later. The only complaint I have about this book is that it's too short. Nowhere near enough pages. I am off to read the entire back catalogue of this author.
I was watching the release date of this book and I inhaled it in one go on release day. This book has it all: world building, believable characters, political intrigue, action. The romantic plot is embedded in the overall story rather than dominating it. There is so much longing, and some moments where I squirmed behind my hand with emotion. Considering I normally like my romantasy with spice and there is virtually none here, I am not one bit mad about it! Read the previous book and this one and thank me later. The only complaint I have about this book is that it's too short. Nowhere near enough pages. I am off to read the entire back catalogue of this author.
December 15, 2024
This series just keeps getting better and better! You're in for one heck of a ride. Book 2, picks up right where the first one left off and Aisling has to figure out what to do next as tensions rise in her kingdom. This is a fast-paced read, which I love. I couldn't get enough of the decisions, political intrigue, betrayal, love, friendship, and family that took place in this installment. I love seeing how Aisling's character grew, and being able to see how she truly cares about her friends. Team Kohen here. That man can do no wrong in my eyes. Let the countdown begin for the next installment.
A very special thanks to the author for the gifted e-arc.
A very special thanks to the author for the gifted e-arc.
December 27, 2024
Lies that Bind is the second book to the Ember Wars series!
This book picks right up where the first one has left off. Aisling finds herself in a new role and has to adapt very quickly. Kohen and Aisling’s relationship gets stronger but she still has to deal with the fact he is the son of her father’s enemy. Their chemistry grows and I love reading about these two together!
There is plenty of action and romance in this one. It can be fast paced but it’s at a good pace you won’t think anything is rushed! It does on a cliffhanger but what story of Leia’s doesn’t!! So worth the read and would recommend!!
This book picks right up where the first one has left off. Aisling finds herself in a new role and has to adapt very quickly. Kohen and Aisling’s relationship gets stronger but she still has to deal with the fact he is the son of her father’s enemy. Their chemistry grows and I love reading about these two together!
There is plenty of action and romance in this one. It can be fast paced but it’s at a good pace you won’t think anything is rushed! It does on a cliffhanger but what story of Leia’s doesn’t!! So worth the read and would recommend!!
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