Wow! What a twisting and turning tale. I love the multiple POVs. It kept the story interesting and really helped flesh out the world and characters. I enjoyed getting to know Hekla and Saga more.

As I was reading this story, I couldn’t fathom where it was going or how it would set us up for future books, but it does and it doesn’t feel drawn out or slow.

The romance is engaging, but it’s not the center of the story, which I appreciate. I also appreciate how conflict is handled between the love interests, it wasn’t over wrought or more dramatic than it needs to be.

I love the adventure and the female characters are badasses, but not hard. I can’t wait to read more stories about these characters!

Thank you Delacort Press and NetGalley for the eARC. It came just in time after I finished Roots of Darkness (#2.5).

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Delacorte Press for this ARC. This was my most anticipated read and it was an honor to receive an early copy.

For returning readers, this book is a great addition to the Ashes series and a must read for all fans. For new readers, this series must be read in order so run and pick up books 1&2 now if you're a fan of Viking history/folklore, found family, a balanced blend of fantasy and romance, and lots of mystery and intrigue.

What I liked:
This book continues the personal growth started for each of the characters in the previous books. Their journeys were handled well and I appreciated that the growth was not always linear. I loved that we got to see Kass' POV. He's so down bad for Saga which made his chapters fun to read. There were many moments that had me giggling and kicking my feet but this book also felt like the more serious of the bunch. There is a lot of court politics, the battles are larger and have higher stakes, and Myrkur's meddling definitely brings a dark tone to the book as you experience Silla's feelings of hopelessness right along with her. We do get some resolution in this book to some of the looming questions/conflicts and there was a lot of set up for new and continued conflicts in the next book.

What could be improved:
Let me first say I was OBSESSED with books 1 and 2 (6 star reads for me) so I may have come into this one with too high expectations. That being said, this book suffered from "middle book syndrome" and I wouldn't say its the strongest out of the 3. The POVs were just this side of too many which I think fed into the "middle book syndrome" symptoms. Some of what I had expected to see didn't happen likely because there wasn't enough time for it. This book is long but it still felt like it was missing chapters. There were also some tropes that I personally dislike. I finished the book having enjoyed it but also feeling a little disappointed.

Overall this was a good read and I will still be recommending this series to literally anyone who will listen. I'm left very hopeful for the next book and the rest of the series. Its very possible that some of what I wanted to see here but didn't will show up in subsequent books. (3.5 stars rounded up to 4)

feb 2026 is quite a ways away, so instead of doing a full review, all I'll say is this: if you're looking for something like Throne of Glass but without everything you don't like about Throne of Glass....this is it. this a fantasy with a strong streak of romance, but you can remove all the romances. and the plot, the characters and their arcs all stand on there own. I love how much historical research goes into the world and lore and I cannot help but want to compare this to a song of ice and fire as well. this entire series so far has been a wild ride from start to finish and I'm so thankful to have received an arc but also NOW I HAVE TO WAIT SOOO LONG ugh.

ANYWSYS

I truly believe this was a me problem than the book itself. A few moments grabbed my attention, but I struggled with much of it overall. I still absolutely adore the characters and enjoyed the multiple POVs. Don't let my rating keep you from giving this book a try!

Title: Dawn of The North Series: The Ashen Series #3 Author: Demi Winters

Genre: Fantasy/Romance Page Count: 608 Audiobook: No

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SPOILER FREE - ARC REVIEW & RECOMMENDATION!
Expected to Publish: 02/03/26
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Brief Synopsis: This 6-perspective sequel to Kingdom of Claw and Roots of Darkness follows Silla, Rey, Saga, Kass, the Bloodaxe Crew, and a bombshell external individual as they navigate the origin of the mist and earning the allegiance of northern nobles to defy Ivar Ironheart.

My Impression: The Dawn of the North is the most action packed of the books-- I was enthralled by each event that took place, no matter whose perspective. We were granted multiple perspectives for events, without being confusing, which consumed me as a reader. I only came up for air when forced; I was in love with the direction the plot has organically taken over the last 2.5 books. This being the longest book gave the author many opportunities for problems and solutions to take place without being overtly rushed-- I felt the pacing was excellent. Plotlines that have been ongoing did not feel stagnant; in fact, it felt like a more realistic timeline for fantastical endeavors. There are certain tropes I personally steer clear of and I deflated a little seeing them begin; but Demi Winters did a beautiful job of inserting those scenarios and wrapping them up so neatly that I was enjoying them... I mean, whose book characters *actually* & *effectively*communicate with each other? Demi Winter's do and that is what we love that about them.
The bonus plot that us readers were gifted had me sitting at attention with every chapter that focused on it... I was even rereading those chapters, enjoying the depth of the main character. I enjoyed that our favorite attack squirrel loves to give relationship advice (all of it was worth notating). The creatures get more eerie, the battles are savage, characters become stronger, and the romance is feral.

Conclusion: 10/10 recommend Dawn of the North to anyone who even remotely liked The Road of Bones or likes Nordic style fantasies. The series' momentum has become so powerful, I was grateful to be given the opportunity to read this ARC and the book exceeded all expectations. After reading the uncorrected copy, I have hopes there are minimal to no changes at all to the plotline. The book was everything The Ashen series needed; I thank the publisher for the chance to read it early!

All The Best,
Hannah

I could hardly wait for this next book in the series to come out and Demi Winters does not disappoint! This book was a little slower at first than the others in the series but it really starts to pick up a short ways in and then you will find it hard to put it down! Cannot wait for the next book to come out so I can see where this story goes next!

Man does Demi Winters know how to write a STORY. I got drawn back in with Roots of Darkness but Dawn of the North actually blew it out of the water. I love Kass to damn death. Also the fact that this is an arc and I have to wait who knows long for the next one? Should be punishable by law. Also found out she’s donating to the Trevor Project this month so if nothing else, read this for that. 100/10

Demi Winter has created another winner! It was great to return to the fantasy world of gods and magic. Silla and Saga are once again fighting for their lives, along with those they love. It is amazing to see how well developed each character is in this book. Winter changes perspectives between each chapter, giving us an inside glimpse of both heroes and villains. It makes for a fascinating read.

Arc Review: Dawn of the North by Demi Winters
This eBook was provided to me by @netgalley in exchange for a review.

Receiving this book was absolutely unexpected and a blessing. The Ashen is among my favourite series - I am talking in leagues with Percy Jackson and Throne of Glass - and getting to read the third installment a little bit early was an absolute joy.

If you’re looking for a critical review, this is not it. I have loved each and every moment in the world of Íseldur (and Zagadka), and have zero complaints or criticisms.

Of note, I read the last 200ish pages in a single sitting and did not stop crying the entire time. Readers, you have been warned.

Now, let’s gush over everything I loved about this story.

The characters. From Silla to Saga, Rey to Kass, Hekla to Sigrun to Gunnar to Eyvind, the list goes on. Every character in these books seems nuanced and flawed and so different from one another to me.
The POVs. With the exception of Jonas (who I despise on principle and I do not think can be redeemed, especially after this novel), I was excited to read about each and every character’s journey. I was sad when I finished a Saga chapter, but elated to begin a Silla one.
The sister relationship. I won’t say more re: spoilers. But Saga and Eisa are a sister duo for the ages. “But Saga would not stop. Would never give up when it came to Eisa.” The TEARS.
The ROMANCE. Wow. It isn’t only hot and tasteful, but impactful and tender, as well. The way that Rey loves Silla and Kass loves Saga is so heartwrenchingly beautiful. Also, Miss Demi, Chapter 68??? WHAT! Was not expecting that, and will be rereading it with Chapter 55 until the end of time.

I have started reading it again immediately to pick up on anything I missed the first time.

LOVE THIS!!!! This series is so amazing!!!! The books are super different from anything I've read before! I love that there isn't anything unnecessary in here! The characters are great and the plot is even better! I love the mythology and everything. Its so great!! I need more from this author!!!

Thank you so much to Demi and Delacorte Press for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I highly recommend reading the Roots of Darkness novella before diving into this book—it adds an extra layer of context that makes the story even richer.

This was definitely the slowest book in the series so far, with a heavy focus on character building in the first half—but once the second half hit, the story really started moving. I loved getting all the POVs, watching the different relationships grow, and seeing our girls come out stronger than ever.

One of my favorite things about this series is how the men in these relationships never overshadow the women. They don’t try to be the strongest in the room; instead, they support, uplift, and stand strong in their own ways. It’s refreshing and makes the relationships feel so balanced and empowering.

Demi continues to deliver phenomenal characters, a vivid and expansive world, and those big, breathtaking moments that make this series so special. The epilogue was fantastic, and I can’t wait to dive into the next installment.

5/5 golden beautiful stars. Love to see the Silla/Rey relationship blossom and other characters grow into their strengths while accepting softness. Plenty of plot AND sweet romance. Only downside is I thought this was a trilogy, now I’m doomed to wait for the next installment. Series is easily a new comfort read for me.

My thanks for the ARC!

Wow, this was such a well-written book! The story flowed so smoothly, with plenty of action to keep me turning the pages. I loved how the characters continue to evolve, the different points of view were done so eloquently that it really pulled me into their world. The pacing was spot-on, and the ending wrapped things up in a satisfying way while still leaving me wanting more. Book 4 cannot come soon enough!

I struggled getting back into this world, as I hadn't picked up the Ashen series since I finished Kingdom of Claw many many months ago. But once the storyline came back to me - I was amazed at the balance between five POVs that were interspersed in a way that made sense and flowed well. I was gasping and desperate for more and more as the book went on. So thankful to have been a part of the ARC team for this book and cannot wait to see more works from Demi Winters!

ARC Review: Dawn of the North (Ashen #3)
Author: Demi Winters
Release Date: Feb 3, 2026
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Huge thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and Demi Winters for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

If you like: multi-pov, strong female characters, grumpy male who is embracing his warm and fuzzy side, delicious mis-translations between love interests, shadow daddies, I only kneel for you, I will burn the world for you, agoraphobia rep, found family, feminine rage, viking lkore, russian lore, lupine shapeshifters, animal sidekicks, slow burn AND steamy romance

Demi manages to weave a story with such rich characters, and up to 8 different POVs (Yes, I counted) without missing a beat. The storyline and POVs flowed seamlessly together and made this a book I couldn't put down. We get to hear perspectives from: Silla, Rey, Saga, Kass, Hekla, Jonas, Signe, and Ivar.

Sometimes the 3rd book in a 5 book series can feel like a filler or a transition book, but this book is action packed and never lulls. As we jump between storylines and povs, I found myself holding my breath and sprinting through chapters as I couldn't wait to hear what happened next to our beloved members of the Bloodaxe crew (and their new comrades).

Saga's character arc is top tier. Her development from Kingdom of Claw through Dawn of the North hit me in the female empowerment feels and she breaks free from her cage.
"Fear is a thing to be felt, not obeyed"

With all of the POVs, we get to enjoy 3 FMCs and 3 MMCs - each of their stories unique and genuine. Demi brings these characters to life, and with a diversity in personalities (and traumas) that is in a class of its own. I was kicking my feet and cackling, while my husband was asking me what was so funny. The banter between these characters (and their furry animal sidekicks - I'm looking at you Kritka) had me reading and giggling until the wee hours of the morning.

If you wish to be transported through a storyline that weaves a thread between darkness and light, sincerity and sarcasm, sacrifice and mystery, which gives beautiful closure yet opens new doors, then this is for you.

I'll leave you with my favorite line from our grumpy, smoke-wielding, axe eyes Reynir:
"He wanted to bundle her in blankets and feed her sweet rolls. He would bring her chicks every morning. Would make each and every one of her hearth fire throughs come true." (because envisioning Axe Eyes wielding sweet rolls and baby chicks will consume my hearthfire thoughts while I impatiently await The Ashen #4)

An absolute masterpiece. Told through multiple POVs, each voice is compelling—I never once felt the urge to skim a perspective. There’s lots of side quests that add depth to the main story and make it unique. With more than one FMC comes more than one MMC 😍. The relationships are beautifully balanced: one storyline brims with spice, while the other simmers with unbearable yearning and tension. Demi captures both dynamics flawlessly.
And then the ending—technically a cliffhanger, yes, but it delivers closure on the events of the first two books while leaving me on edge for Book 4.

This series has everything I love in romantasy: gripping characters, sharp banter, slow-burn tension, layered relationships, and a richly built world. Demi Winters has truly outdone herself.

BRAVO, Demi. BRAVO.

The way my soul left my body when I got this ARC. I love this series so much!

First of all THANK YOU for starting this third book with a recap of the first 2 + the novella. Those of us with goldfish brains are in your debt. I need every series to do this.

Dawn of the North was executed perfectly for me. The way this book followed 5 different distinct POVs across 3 different distinct locations, each with their own strong personality, was masterful (if I got this number wrong I've sorry I never said I was good at math let me live).

The way I’m obsessed with Rurik and Saga. I would read a novel about these 2 doing absolutely nothing, just bantering.

Ultimately if you love The Ashen Series you will NOT be disappointed.

I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me a read.

This book is probably one of the stronger romantasy series out there.

The two sisters in this book have predicaments. Silla has the demon inside her, twisting her right and wrong viewpoints ; Saga has been taken by a Prince of a Kingdom that turns into beasts. Both have men that would do anything for them. Rey who stands strong and allows Silla to fight her own battles. Kassandr who loves Saga and hopes she will, in time, learn to love him and become the fierce warrior princess / queen he sees her as.

I love that Rey's band of followers / friends returned and were given things to do. They were clearly missed in the last book and the book is stronger when you have them.

The way the author sets up the next book always has me intrigued since each one has upped the stakes in terms of situations / issues for the character.

I rated it down one star because I find the worldbuilding little vague when it comes to the other gods and goddesses.

First off I want to thank Delcorte/Random House publishing and NetGallery for the honor and privilege of reading and reviewing the ARC of Dawn Of The North ahead of it’s publish date in February,2026.
This is my most anticipated book of 2026, I feel so lucky to receive this ARC!!!
I rated Dawn Of The North 6 stars!!
This is book #3 in The Ashen Series by Demi Winters (this is a 5 book planned series with a novella (Roots Of Darkness a Hekla POV) which is currently available now!
I would highly recommend you read Roots Of Darkness novella before reading Dawn Of The North, as this book picks up after the events in Kingdom Of Claw and Roots Of Darkness..
This book expands the world and storyline with 6 different POV’s, but Demi handles this with excellent execution that never leaves a dull moment or confusion! Demi Winters is on fire with this book, it was pure perfection, and went beyond my expectations!!! This book was action packed with great battle scenes, and a wild ride! I loved every minute of this book!!
In Dawn Of The North, We follow Silla trying to unite with the Jarls in Kopa, I loved how Silla handle’s events that have been thrown at her, her character growth is incredible. It was a joy to watch her grow into the woman she is meant to be! With Rey at her side they prove that anything is possible!
Saga is in Zandarka now, with Kassandur Rurik, this is where we get some great revelations and awesome twists to Kassandur and his people! I so loved this part, and now I’m in love with Kassandur! Saga proves that even in the face of your darkest moments, there is always a way to find yourself. I loved the woman she has become by the end of Dawn Of The North! We also have Hekla POV, who has now joined Eyvind after the events in Roots Of Darkness, I feel for her, but she needs to open her heart again!! We get some Jonas POV, Jonas is a villain that reminds me of Moash from The Stormlight Archive!! Add in Queen Signe and you have some evil villains, but you need villains right?? If you love books like Throne Of Glass and ACOTAR you will love the Ashen Series!!!! I can’t wait for book #4, as I’m obesssed with the Ashen Series, and it lives rent free in my head all the time!! I highly recommend this book, and all the Ashen Series!!

My review is posted on my Tictok and Instagram channels linked below. As well as I will leave a review on Amazon on release date!

I can’t stop thinking about this book. I have not loved a series, characters or the story this much since I read Throne of Glass. Winters does a masterful job of sharing multiple POVs. Not many authors can do that without confusing the reader. The banter between the characters had me laughing out loud. At the same time you feel the distress and gravity of what is happening. I loved this story. I can’t wait for the rest of the world to read it. I miss this world already.