Book Review: A Shift in Ashes (Lost Legacies Book 4) by Maddox Grey

A Shift in Ashes is the fourth installment of Maddox Grey's Lost Legacies series, and it takes readers on another wild ride through a vivid urban fantasy world brimming with danger, adventure, and romance. This book further cements Grey's reputation for crafting a richly layered narrative with complex characters and thrilling action sequences, while also raising the stakes for the world (or worlds) her characters inhabit.

In this book, we follow the protagonist on a mission to rescue a princess who is, quite intriguingly, a dragon. Not only does this twist add a fascinating layer to the “damsel in distress” trope, but the dragons' realm also brings fresh challenges and breathtaking battles. The tension of navigating a realm filled with enraged dragons is thrilling, and Grey does an excellent job of balancing these action-packed sequences with quieter, character-driven moments.

The personal stakes in this mission are heightened by a blood debt and the protagonist's loyalty to Eddie, a friend in need of help rescuing his love. These emotional ties add depth to the story, making it not just a quest but a deeply personal journey where loyalty, friendship, and love take center stage. As the mission progresses, what seems like a straightforward rescue quickly turns into something far more complicated. The exiled fae king's dark schemes threaten all the realms, pulling the protagonists into a much larger, and far more dangerous, plot. This overarching threat keeps readers on edge and adds a sense of urgency to every decision.

What makes A Shift in Ashes truly stand out is its masterful blend of action, world-building, and character dynamics. The protagonist, bold and unflinching in the face of danger, is both relatable and admirably courageous. However, it’s the witty banter and simmering tension between her and the enigmatic Mikhail that gives the story a deliciously addictive quality. Their dynamic provides both levity and conflict, and Grey skillfully manages to keep their interactions sizzling without detracting from the high-stakes adventure. Readers will find themselves rooting not just for the success of the mission, but also for the protagonist to navigate her complicated emotions while keeping Mikhail at a (seemingly impossible) distance.

Grey’s world-building continues to impress, particularly in the way she brings the dragon realm to life. The descriptions are vivid, and the sense of danger feels palpable. The lore surrounding dragons, fae, and the interwoven realms remains rich and well thought out, expanding on the universe established in the earlier books without ever feeling like mere exposition.

While A Shift in Ashes can be read as a standalone adventure, readers who have followed the Lost Legacies series from the start will appreciate the deeper character arcs and unfolding mysteries that have been building across the books. Grey expertly layers each novel with just enough backstory to keep new readers informed while rewarding long-time fans with subtle callbacks and continued character development.

Overall, A Shift in Ashes is a fast-paced, heart-pounding addition to the Lost Legacies series, filled with memorable characters, thrilling action, and tantalizing romance. Maddox Grey continues to deliver a masterclass in urban fantasy with each new release, and this book is no exception. Fans of the series will not be disappointed, and newcomers to Grey’s world will undoubtedly be drawn in by its intricate plot and dynamic characters. Whether you're here for the dragons, the action, or the romance, A Shift in Ashes will not let you down.


Rating: 4.5/5