Trigger warnings for: child abuse, attempted sexual assault, torture, suicide, animal death

This was a grimmer and more brutal book than I expected! Tanwen and her twin brother have been raised all their lives knowing that they are both loved by their parents, and abominations in the eyes of everyone else for being a mix of Sura (horned, wingless, earth bound) and Volari (winged, magical, and the ruling class). They must hide themselves and their parents identities at any cost, and to this end their father spent time torturing them, teaching them to endure pain and suffering and not break.

When her Volari’s father’s past catches up with him and he is captured, along with her twin brother, Tanwen decides to do the noble thing and rescue them. Selling herself into bondage to the palace — floating in the sky — she falls in love with the prince, befriends the princess, and finds her father and brother only to realize that her brother is being brutally tortured by the king himself while her father is being forced to build a mineral mine so the king can get richer, a mine using Sura labor that will doubtless cost dozens if not hundreds of lives. And doing so only to keep his son alive.

Tanwen … doesn’t really seem to care about what’s happening to her brother and father. She knows where they are, and that’s fine, but she has feelings about the prince. Hot, tingly feelings. Her father is living in despair as he watches his son break more and more each day while he sells his soul to keep him alive, and Tanwen doesn’t spare them a thought until the plot needs her to. She’s emotionally distant from them, and it felt more like they were people she knew, not people she, in theory, loved and would give her own life to save.

However, her relationship with Zolya, the prince is decent enough. He’s a weak man, carefully broken by his father to be dutiful, obedient and frightened, to feel powerless so that he acts powerless, leaving him to the disdain and disinterest of court and advisors, so his father can look down at him and the cycle continues. Wanting Tanwen is one of the few things he does of his own volition — and the way love is presented here, between Sura and Volari feels magical, like fated mates or something with how all consuming it is; be it Tanwen’s parents to a couple being executed for their cross species love, to the instalove she feels for Zolya.

The world building is vague, and the religion unexplained which, frankly, I think works in the books favor. There are hints of conflicts between the low gods — the gods of the wingless Sura — and the high gods, of various alliances and divine power struggles, but it’s mostly hinted at in between other moments. All in all, the writing is strong, the pace is decent, but I really didn’t feel anything for Tanwen. I was more invested in her poor twin, her father, and even the princess who struggled to break free of her father’s hold on her.

Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC!

4.5 stars
I loved this so much, I don't ever highlight in my books but this one I had to. So many beautiful lines that made me cry. This book broke my heart and put it back together. I can't wait until the next one!

I enjoyed the story, characters, and writing overall. However, I did find parts of the story to be a bit slow, so it was hard for me at times to push through.

Having finished the book only moments ago, I struggle with getting my thoughts in order and the urge to tell everyone about this book immediately. First and foremost, if you read nothing else past this, this was a 6-star read and a new favourite.

I would classify this book as more of a romantic fantasy. The fantasy elements are the core focus of the book, while the romance itself is supportive of the overall plot. While there are a handful of intimate scenes, they do not feel like they are for fan service but rather for the logical growth and development of the relationship.

If you come to the romantic fantasy/fantasy romance genre with more of a high or epic fantasy background, you may find this is an easier entry point. The world-building is well done and is the focus of the first portion of the book. Stay with it though, even if you think the book is moving too slowly or if the world-building and character-building feel too confusing. You will settle in in the 30-50% mark. After that, the plot completely takes over and you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough. I can honestly say that I don't remember the last time my heart was beating that quickly through the final chapters.

Tanwen is one of my new favourite FMCs. We all have that one superpower that we wish we could have. Such as invisibility, flying, etc. Mine is communicating with animals. So when I realized that this was Tanwen's magic, I was SOLD. Immediately. The scene in the orchard (IYKYK) was one of my favourite scenes I've ever read and is burned in my memory.

I cannot recommend this book enough. If you are looking for a romantic fantasy that steers clear of silly goofy territory, modern language, and simple writing styles, and want something a bit more lyrical without being purple, realistic characters who don't make face-palm choices, and a rich world of magic, political intrigue, and commentary on real-world issues (namely, misogyny, racism, and classism), then please do not hesitate to pick this book up.

Big thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for a digital advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The forbidden romance made this book! The slow burn, the tension, the perfect amount of spice—it was everything.

Tanwen and Zolya were meant for each other, and I loved getting to know them. The beginning was a little slow, but that’s okay—it takes time to really connect with characters! 🙂
And then… beyond the romance, Tanwen’s fight for her family and her stand against injustice made for an intense read.

This book gave me all the feels! ❤️‍🩹
I absolutely loved it and can not wait for the next book!

Thank you to NetGalley & Montlake!

Scorched Skies was my first introduction to E.J. Mellow’s writing, and I was immediately captivated by the world of Cādra. From the first page, the intricate world-building sets this book apart—dividing the land into the earthbound Süra and their winged overlords, the Volari. Deep-rooted prejudice fuels their conflict, with the Volari believing in the divine supremacy of their Higher Gods while the Süra are protected by the Lower Gods, who challenge the status quo.

At the heart of the story is Tanwen, the daughter of a forbidden union between a Süra woman and a Volari man. Her very existence is considered treason, forcing her to live in hiding. But when her brother and father are captured by Crown Prince Zolaya and taken to the kingdom in the skies, she has no choice but to infiltrate the Volari stronghold disguised as a servant. What she doesn’t expect is the undeniable pull between her and Zolaya—one that could change everything.

The world-building was mesmerizing, weaving together rich mythology, divine politics, and an immersive magic system. As someone who loves fantasy worlds filled with intricate power dynamics and lush settings, this book completely satisfied that craving.

Tanwen is a strong, determined protagonist, and her journey of survival and defiance is both emotional and inspiring. She constantly challenges the injustices around her, making her an easy character to root for. Zolaya, on the other hand, surprised me with his depth. His internal conflict—torn between duty, personal beliefs, and his growing feelings for Tanwen—is explored beautifully through dual POVs, making their slow-burn, forbidden romance all the more compelling. Their chemistry is fire, and the tension between them is palpable.

Beyond the romance, Scorched Skies also explores ambition, oppression, and the cost of challenging fate, adding layers of depth to the story. While the romance sizzles, the stakes remain high, making this a gripping read from start to finish.

If you love romantasy with lush world-building, divine conflicts, and slow-burn tension, Scorched Skies is one to add to your TBR!

Thanks again, NetGalley, for the ARC!

I reply like rh book
The world building, the characters and the plot were really food.
Highly recommend

Despite some technical flaws in the writing like frequent use of passive voice, I loved this storytelling style, the strong sense of plot, the complex characters, and the magical world.

This was my first book by this author, but will absolutely be reading her previous titles.

Thank you netgalley and publisher for the arc.

I'm giving this 4.5 stars. I was worried after reading the trigger warning about animal cruelty, but do feel that it was handled well. The deaths in this book are what takes the half star away for me.

This is a romantasy featuring ground dwelling süra and sky flying volari - also mütra the forbidden result of süra and volari procreating.

Tanwen and her family have been living in the forest undetected for many years now after having to hide and relocate for their safety.

Zolya is the prince with white wings, searching for Tanwen's father. Acting on the orders of his father, the king, he steals her father and brother away to the island in the skies.

Tanwen finds her way to the island in search of her father and brother. She must act as a servant and not be found out for who and what she is. She catches the eye of the prince and a forbidden relationship slowly begins between them.

This book has gods, magic, forbidden relationships, power struggles, treason, loss and more.

I really enjoyed this story. The author does a great job of building the world and characters. It doesn't end on a cliff hanger, but does leave unanswered questions leaving it open to the second installment. I found the deaths, at least two of them to be a bit unnecessary.. but I know life in general is not always a HEA reality.

4.5 rounding up to 5

An absolute work of art, so well written! The world building was so dynamic and unique. Forbidden love is my favourite trope and this did not fail to deliver on that😍

I cannot wait for book 2!

This book was great, I fell in love with Zoyla & Tanwen! They were completely made for each other and complimented one another very well. They were supportive and very vulnerable.
Plus, we have Huw and Eli, they deserve the world! Also, I love a book about character growth and this book was full of that with all the characters helping each other.
The pace was perfect for this story and made it fun to read.
Thanks NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC!

I absolutely loved this.
This is inspired by Icarus, but through a female perspective.
The tension, both romantic and otherwise, was so good. The forbidden romance was very well done, and I really liked having POVs from both MCs. There are also some POV chapters from Tanwen's father, which really added to building the world and backstory, but the majority of the book is from Tanwen and Zolya's POV.
The first part of the book is a bit slow, but there's a lot of world/relationship building and character introductions, so it's appropriate. Personally, I prefer a slightly slower start to dive into the world, rather than a mass infodump in a few chapters which makes me feel overwhelmed.
This gave me all the feels, and it made me cry, so you know that's a win for me. I already can't wait for the next book and this one isn't even out yet 🙃

Beautifully written and richly imagined, Scorched Skies is a heartrending story of family, duty, and forbidden love. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, though I did find it a bit meandering. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this in advance!

Thank you Netgalley and Montlake for this arc.

Starting my reading year on a low note.
Unfortunately, Scorched Skies was one of my most anticipated books of the year. and I was delighted to have gotten an arc and didn't think it would be a disappointing read.

Tanwen, our heroine, didn’t shine through. She loses sight of her goals as soon as the prince makes doe eyes at her, her resolves were weak as shit. She was very lacking as a main character. Zolya's, The hero, thirst for his father’s approval made him overlook so many injustices, discriminating laws and even the selling of his own sister as if she was some sort of object to be traded. That was one of the few plot points where I felt there was a an emotional dilemma and looking forward to the unraveling of it. However, Zolya does not act upon what he feels right and just lets things happen around him. Plus, I didn't feel the chemistry between the main couple, it was quite bland.

The MC was SA’ed and that was instantly disregard as if it’s never happened. Makes you think that the point of the scene was to make the hero look good by saving her!!! That was some really effed up shit that happened to her. She should’ve been affected way more than that. Oh and there was a smut scene right after she was nearly R worded. At that point I mentally checked out of the book.

While It definitely took its time with the world building and setting the lore, which were some of the few redeeming parts of the book. It was obvious that the characters were not flushed out and didn't have depths. Lastly, there was an unnecessary death at the end that just didn't make sense and was abrupt.

This is a duology and I don't if I'm intrigued enough to read the sequel.

Scorched Skies in the first book in a romantasy duology inspired by the myth of Icarus. I absolutely adored previous books by EJ Mellow so I had very high hopes for her newest book.

I was completely mesmerized by the beautiful writing style, which pulled me into the story and did not let go. I adored the immersive fantasy world that EJ Mellow created but the stand out of this book for me was the breathtakingly perfect romance, which was a beautiful forbidden slow burn.

Scorched Skies is a flawless example of a romantic fantasy book and although it does not end on a cliffhanger, I am still desperate for more.

I have decided to DNF this book because I feel as if the writing style is a bit over the top for me. It seemed like very simple concepts were made into these long, complex sentences with unnecessarily complicated verbiage. While this is something that may be appealing to some people, it just makes the book less enjoyable to read for me.

This was a strong start to the Way of Wings series, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed the concept of this world. It was everything that I was hoping for from the description, and that the characters were everything that I wanted. E.J. Mellow wrote this well and left me wanting to read more in this world.

Scorched Skies is a captivating read that swept me off my feet from the very first page! E.J. Mellow introduces us to a vibrant world filled with refreshing characters who feel immediately relatable and engaging. The internal dialogues are skilfully crafted, making it easy for readers to connect with the protagonists and navigate their intricate journeys.

One of the standout elements of the book is Mellow's unique and imaginative magic system, which adds depth and intrigue to the overall world-building. Inspired by the Icarus mythos, this backdrop not only enhances the story but also sets it apart from other fantasy novels.

As I delved deeper into the narrative, my investment in the main characters soared. The suspense throughout the book was palpable, creating a personal kind of torture as I anxiously awaited the unfolding of events. However, the ending felt a touch condensed, which left me yearning for a bit more elaboration, especially regarding certain characters who I felt were underutilised. While I appreciate the path Mellow has chosen for her characters, I can’t help but feel there’s untapped potential that will hopefully be explored in the next instalment.

Overall, Scorched Skies is an exhilarating journey that left me breathless and eagerly anticipating the sequel. Mellow has crafted a world and cast of characters that I am deeply invested in, and I can’t wait to see where she takes them next.

If you’re looking for a fantasy novel that offers a refreshing take on magic and character development, look no further! I await the next book with bated breath!

3.5 stars

thank you to Netgalley and Montlake for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

scorched skies was a great romantasy read. i love how this book utilises the enemies to lovers trope, presenting it in a "two people on opposing sides" way rather than just two people who hate each other.

zolya and tanwen were also interesting protagonists, although i do wish we saw more sides to zolya as a person. he did have a really strong character arc however, with his whole realisation of the atrocities him and his people have been complicit in.

the plot was okay although it did really pick up around the 70% mark. that point when everyone came to the conclusion that they all had the same goal was really strong and kept me invested.

overall it was a pleasant read although not something i would reread. i think the main issue is this story falls into the issue of being readable but quite mediocre and forgettable.

Okay, so Scorched Skies was one of those books where I went in thinking, “This sounds fun,” and came out emotionally wrecked and completely obsessed. I don’t even know where to start because this book has everything. Forbidden romance? Check. Enemies-to-lovers slow burn? Oh, absolutely. An incredible world in the clouds inspired by the Icarus myth? Yup. And let’s not forget a prince with wings and a heroine with horns—literally.

First off, the worldbuilding is amazing. The split between the winged Volari and the earthbound Süra felt so vivid and real, and the political tension was handled beautifully. I loved how the story slowly peeled back the layers of this society—both the magic and the injustices—while still keeping the focus on the characters.

Speaking of characters, Tanwen and Zolya were everything I wanted them to be and more. Tanwen’s determination to save her family (and maybe burn the entire system down in the process) made her an easy character to root for. Zolya, meanwhile, is the classic "duty-bound prince" trope, but he’s so much more than that—complex, conflicted, and utterly magnetic. The chemistry between them was next-level, full of stolen glances, slow-building tension, and moments that had me screaming and giggling.

The writing itself is gorgeous. E.J. Mellow has a way with words that’s equal parts lyrical and accessible. It flows so well that you almost don’t realize how deeply invested you are until you’re fully spiraling into the emotions of these characters. And when the romance finally happens, it hits like a thunderstorm—it’s intense, emotional, and so worth the wait.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say there were a few moments where I wanted a little more depth from the side characters, but with a sequel coming, I’m hopeful we’ll get more of their stories. As for the ending… let’s just say it’s an emotional gut punch (in the best way), and now I’m counting the days until the next book.

If you’re into romantasy with rich worldbuilding, unforgettable characters, and a love story that will make your heart ache in the best way, Scorched Skies is for you. I couldn’t put it down.