Tahir has done it again. She’s created another fantastic world within a book with complex characters who grow, a magic system that I couldn’t find a flaw with and an amazing plot that kept me hooked. We get to see the Empires decades after the last Ember and what has become of the characters we loved and their own children now adults.

The found family aspect was what made this story for me. And the little twist that was not expected at as I read this amazing book. I’m annoyed that we’ll have a long wait for the sequel and I want it now.

Thank you to NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group UK for the ARC

Sabaa Tahir has done it again. She's crafted another breath-taking story with luscious writing, amazing characters and a fascinating plot. All the characters has their own unique voice and I wasn't bored in either of their perspectives. They were strong, but Thair didn't refrain from letting us see their softer sides either. The political intrigue and murder-mystery was so well done. I can't wait to read the next book!

It is the story of several characters: Quil, Sirsha, and Aiz. Quil is the heir to the empire. Sirsha is a tracker that was banned by her family so she now lives away from them, but tracks for a living. She is tasked to find the murderer of many children. And Aiz is an orphan who is on a quest to avenge orphans who were killed by a man who is now trying to rule her country.
The story revolves around this murderer as well as the political issues in the Empire.

This book was reviting. The multiple povs were amazing. I took me some time to understand that Aiz’s was set in the past, but as soon as it overlapped with Quil’s I understood.

I took me a little bit of time to get into it (around 10-15% into the book), but as soon as you get who the characters are and their mission, it just flows. The writing was incredible, I didn’t want to put the book down.

I think my favourite character was Sirsha. It is the first character that I was drawn to and I wanted to keep reading her point of view the most early in the book. She is kind, fierce, quick-witted and loyal.

When I saw that the book was around 500 pages, I thought it would be a bit too long, but it was not. I cannot wait for the second book in the duology to come out as the plot twists at the end were spectacular and left me wanting more.

With thanks to Little, Brown Book Group & NetGalley for the ARC!

This is one of my most anticipated releases this year, so I was overjoyed to get this ARC and devoured it as fast as I could. Sabaa Tahir is one of my favourite authors and her writing is masterful and gut-wrenching, so I knew Heir would be no different!

This is set twenty years after the events of the Ember series and while I think you could dive in without reading that series first, knowing the events of Ember gives it another edge.

Sabaa’s writing in this book is just as masterful. She pulls no punches with the emotional beats, but gives us glimpses into softer sides of characters. She also gives us a peek at the characters we know from the Ember series which felt the cherry on top.

Highly recommend this for people who have read and loved the Ember series before and are looking to dive back into the world, or even just people seeking a fantasy novel with some gorgeous heartbreaking writing.

Looking forward to the second book already!

Wow. What a story. This was just utterly brilliant fantasy read. Great world building. Strong plot. I found the characters really likable, and they grew in strength. the author wrote the story in different POV which was brilliant and kept the story flowing fast and the way each POV ended on a cliffhanger (kind of) I needed to know what happens next so in a way it was a good page turner. Can't wait to read book 2.

I was never in any doubt that Sabaa Tahir would deliver yet another amazing story that would be ingrained in my brain and soul!

Wow, just wow!!

It always hard to follow up after such an amazing series as AEITA, but everything I loved about that series was present here. Sabaa has a beautiful way of storytelling that is enchanting and immersive, evokes every emotion and makes you love her characters, even the ones that you definitely should not be rooting for!

This book is set 20 years after AEITA ends , and while it is said you can read this without reading the series, I promise your experience will be 1000 times better if you do (also, it’s an amazing series so win win!)

Read this book if you love

💕fast paced plots
💕complex world building
💕intriguing politics
💕slow burn romance that will have you giggling and kicking your feet
💕fake dating!
💕found family
💕to have your heart ripped out of your chest on multiple occasions and then stamped on some more 🫠(thanks Sabaa)

Overall I cannot recommend this series and this book enough! Thank you NetGalley and little brown books for making my year with this ARC

A glorious return to the world of the Ember quartet, a couple of decades after the events of A Sky Beyond The Storm.

We follow a broad cast of next gen characters from the original series, with all personalities feeling unique and complementing each other. Sirsha was an instant fave FMC. Quil has a fantastic growth arc throughout the story as well. There are cameos galore from some Ember legends but the balance is great and it doesn't detract from buying into the new cast.

This is told from multiple POVs, which works for the scale of character movement. The pace is medium and then amping up to fast about the 35% mark.

My suggestion would be to perhaps do a reread of Ember if it's been a while as its just nice to have the context of this world and characters fresh in mind. But if not, there is enough recall moments to get yourself mostly there.

The plot had a lot of mystery about it, I found it wasn't obvious which direction I was being sent it. By the time I was getting wise to the upcoming hijinx, my jaw was dropping and my neck snapping with the plot twist recoil.

Oh and if you think Sabaa has decided to go easy on us since Ember...she ain't... Dear reader, you are in for some delicious trauma! Enjoy! 😁

I gotta admit that when I first heard of the spin-off of AEITA, I was so excited and thought it was gonna be an instant 5 star read. Unfortunately, it is not and truth to be told, I’m a little disappointed in this book. However, before I turn all negative and pessimistic, I will talk about some positive stuff.

I really loved all the mentions to the AEITA, all the cameos, and just seeing how some of the characters stories went on was nostalgic. It was really bittersweet to be honest but also so fun to read.
I also enjoyed how much Sabaa expanded this world and included so many different cultures and religions that were inspired largely by Pakistani and Asian cultures. And because most of this book is about travel we really got to know those new places. I was really interested in exploring Aiz country as it was a really unique place with people being able to windsmith, which paired with engineering skills, allows them to build machines that fly.
Another thing I loved were the characters. And although I didn’t connect to them on an every deep level, I appreciate the backstories of them and close relationships between some of them. The romance was also enjoyable and I read the scenes between Sirsha and Quil with interest; however, because it’s a duology, I fear Sabaa made them feel love for each other way too quickly and for me it wasn’t believable, and I hope that she’ll do a better job with another romance that is brewing off-screen.
Also I very much adore the writing style of Sabaa and I think she really improved her craft which made reading really easy. The way she describes many things is just very beautiful and interesting.

However, there are many things that I didn’t like. As I mentioned, the relationships were, in some cases, really superficial and done in a really fast way, which just made me not care for them. I wish we got more conversations, more intimate scenes, and in general more exploration of the feelings. I really wish there were more interactions between Quil and his aunt as it was mentioned their relationship is kinda strained but you don’t really see the root of this and before anything could be resolved they are separated.
Furthermore, I think that someone who has not read “An Ember in the Ashes” might be very confused in some aspects of the book. While I’m happy the author explored more of the world she kind of omitted the history behind the Martial Empire itself and what happened these twenty years ago. It’s mostly just short mentions that if read in long spaces of time you just won’t understand. Some plots are also connected to the events that happened during AEITA that might be interesting for the reader of that series but for the new ones, it’s just random information.
What I hated the most however was the character and the purpose of Aiz. She got way too much chapters and everytime her POV came I was ready to skip it. Because we got so much of her, some plot twists felt flat and not surprising at all as you could see it miles away because of her. Her chapters just give you VERY detailed context that could have otherwise be summarized in 2 chapters max. Also the fact that we got more POV’s of Aiz’s best friend who literally brings nothing to the story more that the son of Elias and Laia, who were the main characters in AEITA, and who very much is important to the story is just ridiculous.

And to be honest I don’t remember much from the middle of the book, I feel like we were just going somewhere but didn’t know where. Quil is tasked with finding *something* to save the empire but we pretty much don’t even know what it is that he’s looking for. And in the meantime, Sirsha is looking for that mysterious creature. And at some point I didn’t know on what storyline to focus on and which one of them is more important to the story. And I think that’s the main reason I didn’t like this book as much as I hoped to because it didn’t have a clear plot that you could focus on and instead you got these side plots and quests.

I mean overall it’s not the worst book ever but I think people who read the previous series are gonna enjoy it way more than new readers as too many storylines are connected to the AEITA.

This is so much better and painful than An Ember in the Ashes. I’m here for it.

Aiz is an orphan driven by vengeance and a passion to see the tyrant of her people killed.
Quil is a reluctant crown prince grappling with his tragic lineage (cough cough, Empress Helene and fostered by Tribe Saif -aka Laia and Elias).
Sirsha is a banished tracker hunting a child killer who feed on their hearts.

I devoured this. The found family. The longing. The wilfulness, spark, amazing storytelling.

He caught her wrist. "Behave," he whispered.
“I never have," she said, her lips a breath away from his. "Why would I start now?"

Do you have to read An Ember in the Ashes quartet before reading this?

Whilst it is not necessary to read Ember beforehand, you might struggle with the onslaught of names and allusions to Quill’s family and his Empire’s bloody history.

I had no idea what this book was about before picking it up. It was by Sabaa Tahir and had an incredible cover. It was so fun to see some of the Ember characters as they slot into this new world they have made, how they guide the younger generation.

“Grief is a strange beast. Some battle it, their souls scarred from its abuse.
Some bury it, and live life waiting for it to reemerge. And some tread water, the grief a weight about their necks. Every reminder makes the weight heavier."

The themes Tahir explores in Ember is expanded in here. How can we condone our actions? How far can we take our ambition and martyrdom before it becomes too much?

“For the people" was a blood-soaked shield brandished by tyrants everywhere.

Whilst some things felt too convenient and predictable, the twists still had me gritting my teeth.

Tahir knows how write pining. How to write forbidden longing. How to build seething hatred and passion. How to describe determination and show heart-pounding (and heart-rending) character arcs and downfalls.

Thank you to Little Brown Book Groups for providing me an arc in exchange for a review!

Ok, so you know what? I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would. Now, I know ST can write a really good fantasy book. I know this because I loved the first book in the ember in the ashes series. But I didn't enjoy the rest of the series. So when I requested this I didn't actually realize it was a continuation in that world.

But I think it can actually be read without reading the first series. I think it would help to have a basic knowledge of that original series going in, but you don't need to read the whole thing, because I didn't finish the last book and I wasn't confused at all. Everything is explained to you in a very succinct way.

I liked the characters - Quil was probably my favourite - Though the romance didn't particularly grab me (not in the same way Elias and Laia did all those years ago) I think the stand out factor for this book that raised the bar was the politics and the twists that come within that.

There was a twist in this book that really worked and really upped the stakes for me. I think as well with a certain pov introduction it lays the breadcrumbs for you knowing what's to come but, in a good way? I think the discussions around the way Aiz speaks about returning to her homeland, the deaths that have to happen in order to achieve that, the way she speaks about the children of other lands....is all very timely and hard to read about as they directly echo horrible statements being made by certain world leaders in the modern world, especially around occupied Palestine. It made her sections extremely harrowing at times.

Sabaa Tahir has outdone herself once again! This book is an absolute masterpiece. It grips you from the first page, weaving a dark and thrilling tale of power, love, and greed. The characters are vividly drawn, their struggles both heart-wrenching and compelling. The twists and turns keep you on the edge of your seat, and the stakes are sky-high. I’m completely hooked and can’t wait for the next book in the series.

How do I put into words, the love that I have for this book? I have never doubted Tahir’s storytelling skills but this book has proven that her writing really is magic. From the very start I was sucked into this plot, and I have not stopped thinking about it since. It’s an absolute force of nature; with complex characters, the corruption of good intentions, the exploration of faith, and some of the most heartbreaking revelations.

There’s a whole host of interesting and amazing characters - shout out to my fav Sufiyan for being both pretty and funny - and some that I know are gonna play a larger role in the sequel! Tahir does an brilliant job of blending the new and old together, with some incredible moments for longtime ‘An Ember in the Ashes’ fans. Alongside this, there’s some incredibly interesting new countries and cultures added to this world, and I loved learning about their histories.

Heir combines everything I loved about Tahir’s writing, and it cements her place as one of my favourite fantasy authors!

RATING: 4.5 stars

Heir felt like a warm hug to those returning to this world, as well as a phenomenal introduction to more of the world of Ember that we had yet to explore.

I’d first picked up Ember and Torch shortly after the sequel’s release and so as the series continued over the years, it felt like I was growing with the characters. Heir felt like a long awaited homecoming that I hadn’t expected in all the best ways. The wonderful cast of characters, all from different walks of life helped bring to life their homes/countries, places we had yet to explore in the original series. For those hoping for easter eggs and callbacks to the main quartet, don’t worry there is PLENTY, but it doesn’t take away from these new characters at all as we get to see their turn in the spotlight in this new duology.

My heart was pounding as I raced through each chapter. It was perfectly paced, never letting you lose interest at what was happening, nor did it feel rushed, specifically the action scenes which Sabaa has always been able to make entertaining for those who aren’t particularly fond of action scenes.

I’ve always loved reading books with multiple points of views, but at times when it comes to fantasy novels, they tend to overdo the amount of characters we follow. Heir has just the right amount, all spread throughout the continents, all on their own journeys that converge over time. Whilst I tend to avoid reading mystery books, I love reading fantasy novels that have you second guessing everything you read and forcing you to pay attention to every single detail you come across and that was the case with this book. From the explosive plot, sympathetic characters that you will come to love, familiar faces and Sabaa’s beautiful writing style, you’ll not want to put this book down.

Heir is a beautifully written high fantasy, set in a known, beloved world, but with an entirely new story and new set of characters to fall in love with.

I appreciated the fast pacing of the story, Sabaa Tahir has a beautiful writing style that manages to intricately weave the story including many twists and plenty of magic, but also does not skip over small details.
This is a book that is sure to envoke a lot of emotion in its readers, especially to those who loved an ember in the ashes. The fast pace will have you giggling and kicking your feet in one moment, and your heart pounding with anticipation in the next.

ARC was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review!

Sabaa Tahir has been one of my favourite authors for many years now. From her fantasy series, An Ember In The Ashes to her young adult novel, All My Rage, she’s been an auto buy author for me for a long time. So when I found out she was writing an AEITA spin off duet, one of my favourite series of all time, I just knew I had to get my hands on it.

Heir was nothing short of incredible. It was rich in its world building, the plot was remarkable beyond belief and the characters were imperfect, flawed, and had their own journeys to go on, but I loved every single one, adored every single one of them.

The introduction to a new set of characters and being thrust into a new side of the world was extraordinary. Sabaa Tahir was able to craft a powerful and effective story, one that will stick with me for a very long time to come. Including the characters.

Quill is Helene’s nephew, he’s funny, he’s charismatic and he has no idea what he wants. But going on this journey with him, discovering things with him and being able to see beyond his duties as a prince from his eyes was super fun, exploring the world with Quil was super fun. I found his relationship with Helene to be one of my favourite things, it’s flawed but beautiful, and I loved the way Sabaa delved into it.

Sirsha was one of my favourite characters from this book. She was funny, she was entertaining and just so loveable. You meet her in one of the most important parts of the story and I had so much fun getting to know this brand new character. I adored her scenes with the other characters and I cannot wait to see what happens with her in the future.

Aiz was one of the most fascinating characters in this book, and one of the best characters I’ve read about in recent years. She was deeply complex with a frightening backstory and even more frightening journey. I loved getting to know her, I loved seeing her dynamic with certain characters in this book and I absolutely loved where Aiz’s story went. I was sucked into her story and I’m super duper excited to see where the ending goes.

And as always, seeing our favourite characters from AEITA was the highlight. For now, who we see, I’ll keep a secret, but I had the best time seeing them again and even shed tears throughout.

This story was rich, and woven with so many intricacy’s and legends that will resonate with tons of readers. I found myself spooked at some scenes too, the plot was fast paced and kept me on my toes, and I even got chills throughout. I had so much fun with this, it was one of the easiest 5 stars I’ve given to a book, and I cannot wait to see where the next book goes after that ending!!! 5/5 stars!

A beautifully crafted and curated world of politics, friendship and magic that swept me off my feet and left me breathless.

An orphan. An outcast. A prince. Three unlikely young people tied together through the threads of fate and choice. The perfect trio for this captivating adventure.

This is by far one of the best fantasy books that I have read in years. The intricacy of the plot is absolutely astounding, I was constantly trying to figure out what was going to happen next, but failing to see the perfectly constructed plot twist right in front of me.

What I love so much about Heir is that I enjoyed every character and was looking forward to their POV, something I think that is rarely done as well as this. Even when a character makes a dubious decision, I could see their reasoning. I also love Quil more than my own heart.

I gasped, I cried and I had to put the book down multiple times to calm myself down. This immersive world is too good to not get absorbed into.

I don’t think fantasy can get much better than this…

How do you put into words how magnificent a books is. Oh wait here we go.

Explosive from start to finish, Sabaa Tahir has brought us back home with this epic fantasy.

Welcome back to the Epic world of magic, adventure, intrigue, family, love, and lets not forget heartbreak. Sabaa Tahir has once again written a book that bring your heart joy but also rips it out in the next breath. Bravo, Bravo indeed.

Honestly don't know how I can review this book and give it enough justice apart from it was amazing. Sabaa Tahir is one of my favourite authors and the way she creates worlds and characters that make you fall in love then rip your heart out is honestly a talent that they have. The world that we know and love is their but its more, we have the knowledge of the places already but we learn more. There will be some characters that you love and will want to be safe at all costs and then there are those that you are happy to see no longer on the page. Sabaa Tahis evokes that much emotion in her words that I have had to put down the book and come back to it.

Heir is a spin off from An Ember in the Ashes (amazing series go read). This is following characters who will make you kick your feet up with giddiness and I won't say more as it will spoil the above mentioned book. The book is told from several points of view and you follow each of their journey's. It was brilliant being back in the world and we got to see some familiar faces.

The book is full of heartbreak, intrigue and emotional turmoil, AND THAT CLIFFHNAGER.

I really really enjoyed this book! Sabaa Tahir is so phenomenal at world-building, the amount of thought and depth that ensures your imagination is completely consumed displays her unbelievable talent.
The characters, they are complex and interesting and you immediately connect and warm to them.
The book is full of twists and gripping excitement so you will be kept hooked the entire way through!
I would recommend this book if you love fast paced, fantasy reads with a well-developed story and great characters!
Thank you to the UK Publisher for an early copy!

Where do I even start with this review, from the very first page I was hooked! After four years we are thrust back into the captivating world of ‘An Ember in the Ashes’ and it DID NOT disappoint. Just like the original series, ‘Heir’ is wholeheartedly unputdownable, action-packed, and fast-paced. I loved how I could see where some of the intricate threads of the plot were headed but Tahir still managed to surprise me and leave my mouth agape!

‘Heir’, set 20 years after the events of ‘A Sky Beyond the Storm’ follows our three main characters, Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil, each one poignantly written. Aiz the orphan, who is thirsting for her revenge, and yet utterly perplexing. Quil, heir to an empire, yearning for the chance to live a normal life. Finally, Sirsha, is an outcast who despite her outward feelings, desires the chance to belong. As well as the introduction of these new characters we also get to revisit some of our old favourites—which I absolutely adored. Together these stories intertwine, creating “a story that is steeped in magical intrigue, an angsty romance and betrayal that will leave readers at the edge of their seats.”