Chosen from birth to usher in a new era, Poppy’s life has never been her own. The life of the Maiden is solitary. Never to be touched. Never to be looked upon. Never to be spoken to. Never to experience pleasure. Waiting for the day of her Ascension, she would rather be with the guards, fighting back the evil that took her family, than preparing to be found worthy by the gods. But the choice has never been hers.
A Duty…
The entire kingdom’s future rests on Poppy’s shoulders, something she’s not even quite sure she wants for herself. Because a Maiden has a heart. And a soul. And longing. And when Hawke, a golden-eyed guard honor bound to ensure her Ascension, enters her life, destiny and duty become tangled with desire and need. He incites her anger, makes her question everything she believes in, and tempts her with the forbidden.
A Kingdom…
Forsaken by the gods and feared by mortals, a fallen kingdom is rising once more, determined to take back what they believe is theirs through violence and vengeance. And as the shadow of those cursed draws closer, the line between what is forbidden and what is right becomes blurred. Poppy is not only on the verge of losing her heart and being found unworthy by the gods, but also her life when every blood-soaked thread that holds her world together begins to unravel.
- Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
- Release Date: March 29, 2020
- Genre: Fantasy Romance, New Adult, Paranormal
- My Rating: 4/5
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I’ve had this book on my shelf for about a year now and when I first picked up ‘Blood and Ash’ by Jennifer L. Armentrout, I was intrigued but not entirely captivated. The world-building felt intriguing, but the characters lacked the depth and development I craved. Throne of Glass (TOG) and From Blood and Ash (FBAA) are two highly acclaimed fantasy series that have captured the hearts of readers worldwide. While both series share certain elements, they ultimately offer unique and captivating experiences that defy comparison.
Upon embarking on my literary journey with TOG, I found the first book, ‘Throne of Glass,’ to be surprisingly underwhelming. However, as I delved deeper into the series, I encountered a remarkable transformation. Each subsequent installment unveiled a tapestry of complex characters, intricate world-building, and heart-pounding plot twists. By the end of the series, I was utterly enthralled, unable to resist the allure of its epic tale.
Similarly, with FBAA, the first book, ‘From Blood and Ash,’ left me with a lukewarm impression. Its characters seemed one-dimensional, and the plotline felt predictable. But, as I continued reading, I discovered a hidden depth to the story. The characters evolved, revealing unexpected layers and motivations. The plot thickened, introducing unforeseen twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat.
I am a great believer in the influence of the gods on all things. This is a story I have never heard of before. Poppy is a Maiden, The Chosen. The Maiden who is unable to do anything. She is a girl selected by the gods, the Maiden, as most people know her. She lives her life behind a white veil that matches her white (pure) clothing. She never speaks unless a royal or a person who has been authorized to speak to her-The Maiden
There is nothing she can do, and for what she is permitted to do, if she does not do it correctly, she is given lessons by the Duke in order to correct her behaviour. Poppy is not as prepared for her Ascension as she thought, and for all the Ascensions associated with her Ascension. Unfortunately, Poppy’s guard is killed before her eyes, and her safety is in jeopardy. A new guard for Poppy is immediately found for her by Hawk.
I wasn’t sure what Hawk was at first. He looked like the Ascended, but he walked in the sun so that theory was out of the question. Poppy and Hawk’s banter and quick wit is one of my favorite parts of the book. It’s a slow burn if ever there was one, so keep that in mind. The relationship that develops with Hawk and Poppy is so beautifully written, how it’s nice to have someone notice you for who you are, not just for who you are chosen to be.
Highly recommend this book. I just finished book two (stay tuned for review), the series is getting better with more twists and turns I have no idea what to believe anymore
Blood and Ash Series:
- From Blood and Ash
- A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire
- The Crown of Glided Bones
- The War of Two Queens
- A Soul of Ash and Blood
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