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Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I (An Urban Fantasy Series) Paperback – May 24, 2023

by Alex B. Harper (Author)
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 54 ratings
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"A riveting series opener that offers magic and monsters. Harper aptly develops an electrifying cast." — Kirkus Reviews (Our verdict: Get it)

"Of Light and Nightmares is a fantastic character-driven fantasy that will leave you clamoring for the next installment in The Ashes of Magic Trilogy." — David K. for Readers' Favorite

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When the monsters find you, the nightmare begins.

Heir to her late parents’ fortune, Emmeline is happy to continue their philanthropic work for the rest of her days. But a rare public appearance sends her crashing into a world of monsters and magic.

Emmeline learns that she’s one of two humans who can see those marked to become a nainthe — guardians between the human world and the violent realm of demon-like monsters, the raizour. The guardians have spent decades searching for her — for without her, they are doomed to extinction, and the monsters will devastate Earth.

As Emmeline hones her newfound abilities, other dark and powerful enemies emerge, stacking the odds against her and the guardians.

And her time is running out—because the monsters have astonishing intelligence and a thirst for blood, and they are ready to execute their chaos.

This pulse-pounding urban fantasy will leave you breathless as two worlds collide in a horrific showdown, where even the winners will lose.

---

Trigger Warnings (in alphabetical order): mentions of ableism, antisocial personality disorder, child abandonment, death of loved ones, domestic abuse, drug use, execution, genocide, hostage situations, infertility, mental illness, misogyny, murder, physical assault, scars, sexual assault, stalking, suicide and self-harm, violence.

Content Warnings (in no particular order): mature subject matters, sexual content, gore and graphic violence, profanity.
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Previous page
  1. Book 1 of 2
    The Ashes of Magic Trilogy
  2. Print length
    506 pages
  3. Language
    English
  4. Publication date
    May 24, 2023
  5. Dimensions
    5.5 x 1.27 x 8.5 inches
  6. ISBN-10
    173890640X
  7. ISBN-13
    978-1738906406
  8. See all details
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The Amazon Book Review
The Amazon Book Review
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Alex B. Harper delivers a promising beginning to The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, capturing the essence of a fantastical realm while delving into the complexities of human nature. Readers seeking a spellbinding tale that intertwines magic, mystery, and personal growth will find themselves drawn to this enchanting series opener." — Literary Titan

"Author Alex B. Harper starts this trilogy off on a fantastic fantasy high, creating a world of high-stakes and ethereal nightmares that I was both intrigued and terrified to step into." — K.C. for Readers Favourite

"...a brilliant book that felt a bit like a mash-up between Crazy Rich Asians and Shadow Hunters. Harper created such a wonderful and fascinating world with even more captivating characters, from the sassy Anja to the brooding Erik. I couldn't get enough of them." — Miche for Readers Favourite

"To say the characters are well-defined would be an understatement. . .Of Light and Nightmares is an ultra-exciting read that whisked me away on a captivating, magical journey and propelled me toward its dramatic and surprising climax." — Paul for Readers Favourite

"There's so much lore to this world. I can't wait to see where it goes in future books." — Ashley for Reedsy Discovery

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ ABH Publishing (May 24, 2023)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 506 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 173890640X
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1738906406
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.62 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 1.27 x 8.5 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars 54 ratings

About the author

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Alex B. Harper

Alex B. Harper

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Alex B. Harper is the author of The Ashes of Magic Trilogy. Born, raised, and now residing in Toronto, Canada, with her own small family, she's a classically trained numerical storyteller (also known as an accountant) with a secret love for all things magical.

For information on new releases and appearances, sign up for Alex's newsletter: https://www.alexbharper.com/

Customer reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
4.7 out of 5
54 global ratings

Top reviews from the United States

Agustina
5.0 out of 5 stars Emotionally resonant
Reviewed in the United States on February 5, 2024
Verified Purchase
Alex Harper's latest offering crafts a world brimming with unique landscapes, characters, and vivid descriptions. The narrative weaves a captivating blend of reality and fantasy, effortlessly transitioning between the two. Harper's skillful storytelling establishes a connection with readers through a 'secret language' of sorts, engaging them in a journey that's both wild and transformative. The book boldly addresses challenging themes, a point Harper conscientiously highlights at the outset. While the narrative confronts difficult situations, it maintains an unexpectedly upbeat and, at times, playful tone. This juxtaposition of tones had a notable impact on my reading experience, as I found myself cycling through a spectrum of emotions. Balancing the narrative's heavier elements are moments of warmth and romance. These scenes unfold at a brisk pace compared to the more dramatic segments, adding a dynamic rhythm to the narrative and presenting an opportunity for further exploration and balance in future works. The novel marks a refreshing departure from the norm, offering originality in a literary landscape that often feels too familiar. A standout aspect of the book is the character of Emmeline. Her resilience and strength make her an inspiring figure, and her presence underscores the need for more such empowered female characters in literature.

As I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this series, I recommend this novel to those seeking a story that's both innovative and emotionally resonant. It's a commendable beginning to what promises to be an intriguing series.
One person found this helpful
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whatsmyname
5.0 out of 5 stars Couldn’t put it down
Reviewed in the United States on August 11, 2023
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Okay, so even as an adult I love YA books but always feel guilty for reading them because I feel like I should be reading something that was written for me and not for the me of years ago. This book was perfect!

Emmeline and the monsters really drew me in and wouldn’t let go. Can’t wait for the next book!
2 people found this helpful
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Mindy
5.0 out of 5 stars Left me wanting for more!
Reviewed in the United States on July 23, 2023
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What a wonderful debut and a captivating start to a series. Looking forward to the rest of the series!
One person found this helpful
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YOLANDA GÓMEZ niño
4.0 out of 5 stars In love with this reading
Reviewed in the United States on January 31, 2024
Verified Purchase
This novel presents an enthralling blend of mystery and fantasy, captivating readers with its magical world filled with monsters and a well-crafted ensemble of characters. At the heart of the story is Emmeline, a compelling protagonist whose strength and complexity add depth to the narrative. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her inheritance and her unique ability to see nainthe—guardians who exist in a delicate balance between the human world and the raizour, menacing, demon-like creatures. The world-building in this book is particularly noteworthy. The author skillfully crafts a setting that seamlessly merges elements of reality and fantasy, enriching the urban fantasy genre. The introduction of the nainthe and raizour concepts is both creative and engaging, providing a novel twist to familiar themes. The pacing of the narrative is well-handled, striking an effective balance between action sequences and character arcs. This pacing makes Emmeline's transformation from a protected heiress to a pivotal figure in a cosmic struggle both believable and captivating. My personal experience with the book was extremely positive. It is a riveting tale, brimming with mysteries and unexpected developments that kept me eagerly turning pages. The author has quickly become a favorite of mine, creating a world that is as intimidating as it is mesmerizing. With a narrative that is both absorbing and thought-provoking, I am eagerly anticipating a sequel.
One person found this helpful
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George
5.0 out of 5 stars What sacrifices must she make along the way?
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2023
Emmeline is an heiress not only to her parents' wealth but also to their philanthropic endeavors. Against her expectations, Emmeline finds herself thrust into a mesmerizing world, where the boundaries between reality and the realm of magic and monsters blur. Unbeknownst to her, she becomes the coveted target of mysterious creatures driven by an inscrutable purpose. It is through a startling revelation that Emmeline discovers her possession of a unique ability, granting her the rare sight to perceive non-human entities and assume the crucial role of safeguarding humanity. As the story progresses, Emmeline embarks on a transformative journey, honing her newfound powers with the guidance of the guardians. However, this personal growth comes at a price, as the malevolent creatures, akin to demonic forces, grow increasingly agitated and unleash havoc upon the world. A race against time ensues, challenging Emmeline's resolve and raising the question of whether she can master her abilities to salvage the familiar world she holds dear. Yet, the ultimate query remains: What sacrifices must she make along the way?

Now, let us pause for a moment to acknowledge the sheer brilliance of the book cover. Its thoughtful design strikes a harmonious balance between simplicity and profundity, offering a compelling visual representation of the essence permeating throughout the pages. Embracing the essence of an exhilarating coming-of-age tale, this remarkable novel encapsulates the essence of the young adult genre. Emmeline's journey resonates deeply with readers, as her character embodies relatable qualities that echo within us all. One cannot help but imagine oneself in her shoes, yearning for her extraordinary abilities while simultaneously fearing the burdens they bear. Harper's narrative deftly explores themes of courage, responsibility, commitment, and the pursuit of greatness through the simple act of embracing one's true self. Within the pages of this enchanting book, the author skillfully crafts a fantasy warrior tale that serves as an inspiring model for young girls to admire and aspire towards. The endearing cast of characters further amplifies this effect, with Erik standing out as a particularly sympathetic figure. His arduous tasks present an emotional quandary, highlighting the delicate balance between duty and moral righteousness. With this being only the first installment in the series, the promise of further thrilling adventures beckons, leaving readers eager to witness the continued evolution of these captivating personas.
2 people found this helpful
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Dana
5.0 out of 5 stars Emmeline is a woman I wish I could be.
Reviewed in the United States on September 12, 2023
Love the story line. Great read that pulls you into the world of magic, good and evil.
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Top reviews from other countries

Amazon Customer
5.0 out of 5 stars An Intense, Enjoyable Urban Fantasy
Reviewed in Canada on January 26, 2024
Verified Purchase
Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I (An Urban Fantasy
Series) by Alex Harper, is an intense urban fantasy that grips you from the beginning. When
Emmeline faces an uncertain future and experiences frightening, unexpected visions, she
soon learns about what lies ahead, impacting her life personally and professionally. She
must navigate her life with new expectations and brace herself for challenges. Following the
tragic loss of her parents, Emmeline must forge a new life and journey, which proves to be
challenging and emotional.

I found this book a refreshing departure from other urban fantasies, as it opens with
solid character development, capturing the vivid emotional theme of the story, which helps
the reader empathize and bond with them. Character strength is essential in a trilogy,
mainly as the story develops. I quickly bonded with the plight of Emmeline and her
newfound destiny, which is boldly conveyed with amazing narration and imagery
throughout the book. This story sets the stage for an exciting trilogy!

Harper is a master of creating vivid scenes that evoke emotions and feelings
connected with the characters and their environment. It’s a story that will reel you in and
keep the pages turning from start to finish. If you’re new to urban fantasy, this trilogy begins
with a strong impression and delivers a stellar tale, which makes it an excellent introduction
to new and long-term fans.

Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I (An Urban Fantasy
Series) by Alex Harper, is an exceptional read and a wonderful start to a promising series.
There’s an impressive balance of fantasy, romance, and action, which is ideal for a wide
audience. I look forward to following this story and seeing more work from the author. It’s a
well-crafted tale that creates an intriguing potential for a great trilogy.
One person found this helpful
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Yoyo
5.0 out of 5 stars Loved this story!!!
Reviewed in Canada on December 28, 2023
Verified Purchase
“Of Light and Nightmares” is a spellbinding fantasy novel that captivates from the first page, weaving a tale of magic and mystery. Emma is a breath of fresh air. She is resilient, empathetic, and brave, while grappling with her own insecurities while trying to understand the world she’s been dropped into.

Harper builds a wonderful world without info dumping and blends it with an uncomplicated writing style, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in the story. The characters are well developed and the relationships between the characters felt authentic and dynamic.

I can’t wait for the second book!
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The Little B Shoppe
5.0 out of 5 stars Captivating read!
Reviewed in Canada on January 29, 2024
Verified Purchase
"Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I" by Alex B Harper is a spellbinding urban fantasy that seamlessly combines magic, monsters, and a touch of romance. The author's skillful storytelling draws readers into a world where powers and creatures coexist, creating a thrilling backdrop for the unfolding tale. The infusion of romance adds depth to the narrative, while the inclusion of familiar landmarks provides a delightful sense of connection.

Harper's vivid prose and well-developed characters make this a truly enjoyable read. Eagerly anticipating the next volumes in the Trilogy!
One person found this helpful
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MsMaizun
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a thrilling read!
Reviewed in Canada on July 17, 2023
Verified Purchase
"Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I" by Alex B Harper is a thrilling story that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and a battle against otherworldly creatures. From the moment I delved into the pages of this captivating story, I found myself swept away by the author's vivid imagination and the enthralling world that was created and I couldn't put it down!!

The main character's (Emmeline) progression was the highlight of the book. She starts as a refined heiress, content with her philanthropic work, but as she hones her abilities and faces the growing threats, she undergoes a transformation that surprises even herself. Her determination, resilience, and inner strength shine through, making her a compelling and inspiring female protagonist! I found myself rooting for her success and eagerly turning the pages to see how she overcame each new challenge.

Alex B Harper has crafted a captivating debut novel that leaves me eagerly anticipating their future works and I highly recommend "Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I" to anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure with a touch of darkness, a glimmer of hope and budding romance that only exists in the shadows!

I devoured this book in 2 short weeks and that's fast for me!! I thoroughly loved the world that was created with all the nuances of language and fantasy. I'm so invested and can't wait for the next one in the series!!
Customer image
MsMaizun
5.0 out of 5 stars Such a thrilling read!
Reviewed in Canada on July 17, 2023
"Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I" by Alex B Harper is a thrilling story that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and a battle against otherworldly creatures. From the moment I delved into the pages of this captivating story, I found myself swept away by the author's vivid imagination and the enthralling world that was created and I couldn't put it down!!

The main character's (Emmeline) progression was the highlight of the book. She starts as a refined heiress, content with her philanthropic work, but as she hones her abilities and faces the growing threats, she undergoes a transformation that surprises even herself. Her determination, resilience, and inner strength shine through, making her a compelling and inspiring female protagonist! I found myself rooting for her success and eagerly turning the pages to see how she overcame each new challenge.

Alex B Harper has crafted a captivating debut novel that leaves me eagerly anticipating their future works and I highly recommend "Of Light and Nightmares: The Ashes of Magic Trilogy, Volume I" to anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure with a touch of darkness, a glimmer of hope and budding romance that only exists in the shadows!

I devoured this book in 2 short weeks and that's fast for me!! I thoroughly loved the world that was created with all the nuances of language and fantasy. I'm so invested and can't wait for the next one in the series!!
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2 people found this helpful
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Socksna
5.0 out of 5 stars A captivating must-read!
Reviewed in Canada on October 9, 2023
Verified Purchase
This book is an absolute gem, a must-read for anyone seeking a thrilling escape into a world where dreams and reality.

I couldn't turn the pages fast enough, eager to uncover the secrets of this mesmerizing world and witness the characters' triumphs and tribulations, and the romance! The pacing is spot-on, ensuring that the story never loses its momentum.

Of Light and Nightmares explores deeper themes like friendship, courage, and the power of belief, making this book not only a thrilling adventure but also a thought-provoking journey.

If you're searching for an epic adventure filled with magic, heart, and unforgettable moments, don't miss out on this enchanting tale. I can't recommend it highly enough and can’t wait for the next one.
One person found this helpful
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