The Aspect of Essence (The Aelfyn Archives Book 1) by Samantha Amstutz

For readers who love high fantasy, immersive world building and magic systems, slow-burn romance, unique bonds, plot twists, drama and banter—start your adventure with The Aelfyn Archives series.

For over a millennium, the elves have concealed their powers.

Until now.

Since arriving on the mortal shores, the elves have systematically colonized the primitive human race. As subjugated peasants, the mortals toil to supply the elven realm with riches.

The elves’ magic has degraded their race to a point where they have been rendered infertile. A hundred years ago, they resorted to interbreeding with humans in an effort to preserve their species.

In the elven realm, Jassyn has spent his life both researching the fertility crisis and being forced to produce offspring. His existence balances on a narrow precipice between solving mysteries of the elves’ infertility or succumbing to his handlers’ maltreatment. A new assignment, tutoring a half-breed princess in a human realm, promises a temporary relief. But he soon discovers the real reason for his presence.

Serenna, Jassyn’s new pupil, has earned the right to leave the mortal realm to join the elven courts. Or so she thought. Her anticipated life as a noble takes an unexpected turn when a monstrous race emerges, threatening the existence of all. Instead of joining the elven noble houses, Serenna is conscripted to a military academy for half-breeds.

She learns that not only do half-breeds like her and Jassyn have magic, but that the elves have suppressed all knowledge of their powers. In a race for survival, she must learn how to wield Essence to fight for her life.

With the imminent threat of war, Serenna struggles to master her magic before being thrown on the front lines. Meanwhile, Jassyn strives to protect her, but his forced servitude takes a darker turn, leading him down a destructive path.

Enjoyed by readers of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Crowns of Nyaxia, The Empyrean, and Throne of Glass. If you enjoyed Sansa Stark's growth, Rhys in A Court of Mist of Fury, gut-wrenching heartbreak, tension-filled slowburn romance, and an anti-hero with Kylo Ren energy, The Aspect of Essence is for you!

For my spice lovers, The Aspect of Essence is a slowburn. Steamier scenes to come in later installments as relationships unfold.

Please be aware that this novel is intended for adults. Reading guidance can be found in the sample listed at the front of the novel.