I am so excited to read this one. But when I requested I thought it was a brand new series - not a companion series. As I haven’t read Ember, I feel like I’m missing out on some important world building. I’m going to put this one aside for now, read the Ember Quartet and then come back to it!

Thank you to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for the advance reader copy!

𝘏𝘦𝘪𝘳, set in the world from 𝘈𝘯 𝘌𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, tells the story of the next generation. Helene Aquilla's nephew, Quil, is one of three main characters. As the Heir to the Martial Empire, he struggles with the concept of his future power amidst a brutal, warring world. Sirsha is using her magic to hunt a vicious killer, one who has left a trail of dead children in its wake. Laia and Elias lost their youngest son to this being, and Sirsha is bound to obtain justice. Aiz is an orphan desperate for her own revenge against the man who burned her orphanage to the ground. All three paths converge as this exciting story unfolds.

I would recommend that readers first enjoy Tahir's quartet, starting with 𝘈𝘯 𝘌𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, to gain an understanding of the world building and background to current events.

Upon starting 𝘏𝘦𝘪𝘳, I struggled to get fully invested. I wasn't sucked into the story like I was with Tahir's previous series. Once I did become enthralled, Tahir reveals that Aiz's timeline and chapters are set in the past, and it becomes extremely obvious that she is the killer. Once the official reveal happens, it falls short as the tension and suspense had already stopped building.

By this point in the book, I wasn't a fan of Aiz, and I internally groaned every time I got to one of her chapters. She is very unlikeable, and I didn't enjoy her villain era. There was so much missed potential in the execution of her story!

Tahir's approach therefore made the book feel about 100 pages longer than it needed to be, and I again found my focus drifting at the back end.

Expect a brutal world of heartache and pain, but also themes of hope in this spin-off. I wanted to like Quil and Sirsha's story, but it ultimately fell short with Aiz's timeline. I'll still read the next book in this duology, but I'm not as excited as I had been before starting this one.

Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers Group for this arc!

I want to start by noting that I’ve been informed that this book is set in the same world as An Ember in the Ashes, which I haven’t yet read. I wasn’t aware of this before I requested the arc.

However, while I think reading that series first would be beneficial in terms of world building, this book definitely stands up well on its own and reading An Ember in the Ashes first isn’t really necessary (unless you want to).

That being said, after reading Heir, I will be going back and reading her An Ember in the Ashes series as I really enjoyed the world and magic system. Overall I really enjoyed this read and am excited for book 2! Review will be up on goodreads within the day.

The Ember in the Ashes series is one of my all time favorite fantasy series, so I was very excited to jump into that world again with this new duology from Sabaa Tahir.

Heir is set twenty years after The Ember in the Ashes series ends. We do see Laia and Elias and other characters from the original series in this book, but they are not the main characters. Instead the focus is on a new set of characters. Aiz grew up in the slums and is on a mission of vengance to right the wrongs she has seen and experienced among her people. Sirsha is a seer who is tasked with using her gift of tracking to find and kill a murdered. And Quil is the nephew of Empress Helene, who is unsure if he is ready to or even wants to be the leader that his people need. These three stories are intertwined and come together for one intriguing novel.

It took me a little bit to get invested in the new characters, but once I did, I really enjoyed this one as much as the original three books. It has some clever twists and mostly likeable characters. I think Quil was my favorite. Sabaa Tahir is just an excellent storyteller, and she always writes in a way that compels me to keep reading!

I'm not sure about the ending. Since it is a duology, I will need to read book two before I can give my full thoughts and opininos on the way this story completely wraps up. Most certainly, I will be ready and waiting to read the next book in this series along with whatever else Tahir writes in the future!

Holy plot twists Batman! I don’t know what I expected but my expectations were far exceeded! The characters were absolutely phenomenal. Their stories, their motivations, their emotions, are all absolutely riveting. The magic system/world building was very unique (I have not read Ember yet but plan to but it did not seem to be needed before reading Heir) This book has one of my favorite “tropes” and that’s the “my blood related family are all assholes who abused me and abandoned me and I don’t know how to trust or love again but I’m going to try with this new chosen found family.”

5 stars - absolutely recommend!

**5 STARS** Thanks to NetGalley & Penguin Group for providing me an e-ARC. I was incredibly honored to receive an ARC for this and of course Sabaa Tahir tugged at my heart strings with this one too.

*DISCLAIMER: There will be slight spoilers in this review for her previous series.*

Following her epic 4-book YA series, “An Ember in the Ashes”, this book takes place 20 years after the final instalment. We of course are reintroduced into the world of AEITA, seeing familiar (much beloved) characters and introduced to new ones. This book is told in a few POVs;one being the heir to the empire, Zacharius Marcus Livius Aquillas Farrar, AKA Quill; Aiz, a girl from the Kegari slums; and Sirsha, a tracker who was banished by her people. Quill is questioning his ability to rule following his aunt Helene’s footsteps. We sympathise with his internal struggles and read about his tough upbringing following his mother’s death and the aftermath of the war that took place 20 years prior. Aiz having witnessed the struggles of the Kegari people seeks help from a *certain* tribe to find a missing piece of her personal vendetta. And of course, our badass mfc, Sirsha–a tracker who is hunting a mysterious killer. A huge event occurs that unites all of these characters together and we follow this incredible journey.

Sabaa Tahir really knows how to write an epic fantasy where you gasp, occasionally scream at your kindle/book, and shed a few tears. It is worth noting that this can be read as a standalone but if you want to go back and read the AEITA series, there will be spoilers in this upcoming duology. Tahir’s writing is so captivating, it’s such a joy to read–you can’t help but feel all the rollercoaster of emotions. I loved the addition of one of the characters, Sirsha. It was refreshing to read a quirky, badass woman by Tahir. There are some intimate scenes in this book but it is so tastefully written–almost closed doors but intricate at the same time.

If you’re feeling skeptical in returning to this world, DON’T. I promise Tahir’s writing and storytelling improves with the next book. Reread the first four books to refresh your memory and enjoy this new spinoff!

Set after the events of the An Ember in the Ashes Series, Heir is a strong return to this fantasy world. The first in what will be a duology, Heir follows three charcters. Each has their own backstory, with internal conflicts complicating their actions. Sabaa Tahir is an incredible writer, bringing to life the world of the Empire and the people who live in it.
In addition to the complex (but not difficult to follow) fantasy plot, there is also the treat of a few romantic plots, with main characters and supporting characters. There was not any element of the story that seemed under developed, and I can't wait for the second book to wrap up the stories of Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil.

The author strikes again with Heir, an electrifying new fantasy that immerses readers back into the brutal yet mesmerizing world of the An Ember in the Ashes series, while introducing a fresh cast of characters who will tug at your heartstrings and leave you breathless. This time around, the author doesn’t hold back, weaving a story that is as much about love and loyalty as it is about vengeance and survival.
At the heart of Heir are three unforgettable protagonists: Aiz, a fierce orphan with vengeance burning in her soul; Sirsha, a magic-wielding tracker exiled from her people, chasing a dangerous quarry while fighting an even greater battle within herself; and Quil, a crown prince burdened by a dark family legacy, unsure if he has the strength to lead his empire into the light. Each character is crafted with depth, their struggles raw and achingly real, and as their paths intertwine, you can't help but get swept away in their stories.
The stakes are relentlessly high—whether it's the political intrigue threatening to rip the empire apart or the personal battles each character faces in their quest for justice and redemption. The author's signature prose is sharp and evocative, pulling you into a world filled with treachery, magic, and aching vulnerability. The romantic tension simmers, the action scenes crackle with intensity, and the exploration of power and its cost is both timely and timeless.
For fans of the author's previous works, Heir delivers everything you could want: heartbreak, hope, and a gut-wrenching finale that leaves you desperate for more. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Ember world or a newcomer, this novel is a must-read. Heir is not just a fantasy—it’s a raw, emotional journey that will leave you pondering its themes long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!

WOW....talk about an explosive and addictive start to what is sure to become a new favorite adult-fantasy duology! This was phenomenal - the writing quality, the characters and development, the worldbuilding, the plot....Sabaa Tahir is a master of her craft.

I adore multi-POV stories, but I'll also be the first to admit they can sometimes be hard to follow, and keeping all the plots and characters straight can be a chore - Tahir handles several storylines perfectly, leaving me gasping as connections were made and hungry for the next chapter of every POV. Even when I didn't like a character or seriously questioned their decision making skills, I loved reading how their minds worked and still wanted to know what they would do next - I didn't have to like the character to adore their chapters.

One of my favorite aspects was that Tahir didn't shy away from the big emotions - from the delicious romance and spice to the heart-wrenching trauma and deaths, every emotion was given the space it deserved to be felt by the characters and, in turn, by the reader. I ached, wept, laughed right along with them in their love, grief, and tortured decision making - I was right there with them the whole way because the characters felt real and the stakes personal.

This was just a perfectly crafted story and, as is the plight of any reader....I am now left feeling bereft without the next book. Do not sleep on Heir, it will quickly become a favorite!

Turns out Heir is related to An Ember in the Ashes Quartet, which I was not aware of before requesting this ARC; having not read An Ember in the Ashes, it's difficult for me to make a comparison. This could also be the reason why I was so confused in the first half of the book. With no map and no proper explanation of the bigger picture, I was lost when political relations were mentioned at first. It might be my fault for not researching the book properly, however I enjoyed it a lot more as I started to understand what's going on.

Sabaa Tahir's writing is incredibly good! Even in the beginning when I was confused as hell, I couldn't put it down because it was so gripping. Heir is a well balanced story with plenty of intrigue, mystery, magic, politics, and contains more than enough twists, some of which I didn't see coming. The way everything connects eventually was extremely satisfying as it all clicked into place and it made me want to read An Ember in the Ashes so badly now! I'm also looking forward to reading the sequel given how the book ends!

Oh goodness…I’m done and I can’t believe what a wild ride that was.

I usually have a POV that I like more than others, but Sabaa Tahir kept my attention on ALL THREE! I was hooked!

I need all of my friends to read this so I can ramble about how good it is to them.

SABAA TAHIR DOES IT AGAIN! I had no idea this was a continuation of sorts of the EMBER series, and I was so pleased to see some of my favorite characters again. This was an action packed YA fantasy filled with the highest of stakes and so much magic. I loved revisiting the world of EMBER, and also meeting this next generation. I think this was a perfect way to continue revisiting some of the fandom's beloved characters while also not drawing out the same plot. This new series is tons of fun, and it's also .. dare I say it? STEAMIER than the original books.

I really liked the direction Sabaa took this plot in, and her characteristic multiple POV storytelling hit the mark yet again. I can't wait for book two!

Some stories should not be told...

But not this one, obviously. THIS IS STORYTELLING. THIS IS ART. The twists were twisting, and the turns were turning. Sabaa Tahir packs a devastating emotional punch in this sequel duology to the Ember in the Ashes series. High fantasy and also mystery, this book has 3 main points of view (a couple of chapters here and there are other POVs): Sirsha, an outcast, Aiz, an orphan, and Quil, the prince of the Martial Empire. Twenty years after the events of the EITA series, a murderer is on the loose, killing the young, and Sirsha is hired to track them down. Quil is Empress Helene's nephew, but he doesn't want to become Emperor. When the Empire is suddenly attacked by distant enemies, the Kegari, he is on the run trying to survive. And Aiz, a Kegari orphan, wants to free her starving people from the corrupt ruling class when she begins hearing the voice of the long-lost Holy Cleric who founded her nation.

The first few chapters I was admittedly a little confused. The reader is thrust into unfamiliar territory and circumstances compared to the last series, but as you continue reading you understand the intention behind it. The thread of the story unspools, and bit by bit you can piece together the mystery: the killer, the Kegari, the identities of these characters. The tale is simply gripping. I devoured this and was genuinely shocked by the direction that Tahir takes this story. I cannot wait for the next book.

Also, Ms. Tahir should put some lawyers on retainer because I'm suing her for that ending.

The best fantasy that ends up being my favorite is when I have no idea what’s going on, and this was just exactly that!

I kept meticulous notes on characters, places, and events through the first half of this book. When the plot finally revealed itself, I couldn’t finish it fast enough.

Fantastic storytelling and world building. I really liked Sirsha and Aiz from the start. Quil’s history had an emotional impact and I loved putting all the clues together. There’s some political intrigue woven into the story but it really takes on another theme in the second half. The tension had a slow build and was really neat overall. The romance felt very natural and I appreciated the connection I was able to make. I got very invested in these characters and cannot wait to see where the story will go next.

Although I’ve read Ember in the Ashes, I do not have recollection and might go back to that series and see if I’ll enjoy it more now. For anyone familiar, you may see some characters you’ll recognize from that series here.

I received an ARC for this book but my review represents my free and honest opinion.

I've heard about this author and she's been on my TBR list, but until this showed up on Netgalley, I didn't give her a try. Now I'm determined to go back and read her previous series. I loved this book. I love how the characters are sympathetic, and yet held accountable, and how the author shows the ease in which people can go down terrible paths. The secondary characters are compelling and it just feels like I need to read more about everyone and figure out how they got to the battle.

I also liked that I don't feel like I've read a cliffhanger. There's much more to this story, and I'm excited to read it, but I don't feel like I've read half a book.

This is the kind of writing that has me coming back for more. It's a wonderful story and I can't wait to read the sequel!

Thank you Netgalley for this amazing ARC!

Ahh! I was so excited to be back in this world and it did not disappoint. I did not see that ending coming… are you kidding me?! And the love story was so swoony and perfect. I highly recommend!

Oh, how fun it was to return to the world of An Ember in the Ashes! Sabaa has expanded the world and created such a wonderful, frightening, magical-filled story. We meet new characters and get glimpses of old. I really love how this feels a bit like EMBER with its darkness, war, and blood, but still like EMBER in that's it's hopeful, with love tucked between the crevasses. I absolutely adored getting to learn about the vast world outside of the Empire, along with each country's customs.

Let me tell you one thing, I wasn't sure what to make of Aiz, but as the story progresses and you have the realization that there's something not quite there... Oh, how heartbreaking. You have Sirsha and Quil as well, and along with Aiz, are all lost and somewhat broken characters. Sirsha and Quil are both searching for something different than what is expected of them. I think, in the end, they both realized perhaps what they initially wanted...isn't what they want after all. Quil is an incredibly loyal character, who displays over and over again how much he loves his friends and family, and how well-rounded of a person he is.

There is a storyline here about the origin of the Martials' masks and gosh, I'm simply so intrigued by it and I'm eager to see how Sabaa expands this storyline. I wasn't expecting the ending either, and I can't figure out if I sympathize with Aiz after everything that happened. Leaving things the way Sabaa did with Sirsha... I'm shocked????? I also desperately need Quil to be reunited with his Aunt Helene because I feel like he (and she, tbh) have some very choice words to say to one another.

Needless to say I really enjoyed this book, and I can't believe I have to wait an unknown about of time for any hint about Book 2.

I thought that I'd enjoy this book more, but in the end, I had to settle with simple indifference. Sabaa Tahir's fans will be glad to come back to this world -- this time, with new players. The twists and heartbreak and her signature style are all there. Unfortunately, this is just not a book for me.

set 20 years later in the same world as ember, we follow three new perspectives: Aiz, Sirsha, and Quil. they are on seemingly different journeys, but their lives all intertwine in the wildest ways. we get dashes of humor (sirsha, i'm looking at you), romance, and lots of new lore and culture from the new region we’re exploring!

this story does such a great job of introducing our new leading, dynamic characters, while tying their stories to the characters we already know and love from the original ember quartet. which is why i say that while it can technically be read as a standalone, i highly recommend reading ember first! it really ups the stakes of everything happening in heir, knowing how the journey our main cast from ember went on.

the plot twists and fast pacing immediately draws you in, and you really never know what is coming next. there were a few parts where i had to double back because i was like wtf just happened!

this was just so good and the themes are super relevant to everything going on in the world now, which is something i feel like sabaa is always really great at incorporating. i’m truly on the edge of my seat for book two!

Thank you NetGalley and Penguin Group for this early release copy.

I have had An Ember in the Ashes on my bookshelf for years waiting to read it, and I have never gotten around to it. I've heard amazing things about the series and Sabaa Tahir's books. When I saw this and that it was a new duology, I jumped on reading it. I loved it from beginning to end. It takes you on an amazing journey and tells such a fantastic story. I finished the book so excited to read the next book when it comes out, only to discover the connection to An Ember in the Ashes! I am now incredibly motivated to finally start reading that series while I wait for the next book in this duology! The great thing about this is that I didn't need to read the other series to fully enjoy or understand this book, I had no idea until I finished that they were in any way related. It's definitely a great standalone new series on its own.