From Blood and Ash, Book 1
By: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Book Series: From Blood and Ash
Spice Level:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
From the very first page, readers are transported to a lush and detailed world that feels both familiar and yet wholly unique. Armentrout’s world-building is intricate and captivating, with a rich history that is seamlessly woven into the plot.
The political and religious factions that govern the world of the Ascended are well-developed and provide an intriguing backdrop for the story. Step into a world shrouded in mystery and secrets.
The Maiden, aka Penellaphe, or Poppy for short.
Poppy is strong and determined and refuses to be defined by the constraints placed upon her by society. Her journey of self-discovery and acceptance is both relatable and inspiring. Thrillingly rebellious, Poppy constantly defies the rules that confine her, even training in combat alongside her loyal Royal Guard, Vikter. Armed with a dagger, she prepares to face the monsters lurking in the forest, under the control of the enigmatic Dark One.
Poppy has spent her life hidden from the world as the Maiden. Bound by strict rules, she yearns to break free from her gilded cage and truly live. On a fateful night, Poppy sneaks out incognito to a den of indulgence, her face veiled and her identity concealed. There, she finds herself in the company of Hawke, who offers her a taste of the life she craves. As danger draws closer to the castle, with Hawke now a fellow Royal Guard, Poppy starts to question her role as the Maiden, yearning for a freedom tantalizingly close but just out of reach. Poppy’s yearning for any sort of freedom is infectious, and you’ll find yourself rooting for her every step of the way.
And then there’s Hawke, the swoon-worthy guard who captures Poppy’s heart and the hearts of readers everywhere. Their chemistry is electric, and their forbidden attraction is the stuff of epic romance. This guy is the epitome of brooding and mysterious, and he’s got us all weak in the knees. He had me hooked from the start with his quick wit, intuitive nature, and how he treated Poppy with genuine respect.
You just can’t resist falling head over heels for him. With his enigmatic charm and irresistible allure, Hawke is the kind of love interest that makes our hearts go pitter-patter. He had this effortless charm that made it so easy to like him.
What truly sets this book apart is the dynamic between the two. Get ready to swoon, folks, because Hawke is about to steal the show and capture our hearts in the most deliciously captivating way. Brace yourself for a romance that will make you melt and leave you yearning for more.
But here’s the twist: something happens with him that changes EVERYTHING! Armentrout masterfully weaves together the threads of action and romance, balancing both elements in a way that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is perfect, with just the right amount of tension and release to keep the story moving forward. And the writing itself is nothing short of brilliant.
Armentrout’s prose is vivid and evocative, with descriptions that transport readers directly into the heart of the story. But perhaps the most impressive thing about From Blood and Ash is the way that it tackles complex themes with nuance and sensitivity. The idea of power and control, and how they can be both a force for good and evil, is explored in a way that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
And the themes of identity and self-acceptance are particularly resonant, as readers follow Poppy’s journey of self-discovery and learn to embrace their own unique identities. All in all, From Blood and Ash is an absolute must-read for fans of the fantasy genre. With its engaging plot, memorable characters, and swoon-worthy romance, it’s no wonder that it’s taken the book world by storm.
Whether you’re a young adult or a seasoned reader, this book has something for everyone. So pick up a copy today and get ready to fall in love with Poppy, Hawke, and the world of the Ascended.
The Audible version of From Blood and Ash hits all the right notes! The Narration is absolutely on-point, bringing the story to life in a way that enhances the already captivating tale. The talented voice of Stina Nielsen captures the essence of each character, infusing their personalities and emotions into every word.
Other posts you might enjoy:
