From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BOOK: 7 OF 2021

RATING: 4/5

I'm feeling confident in the next fantasy series I've committed to; I have quite a few different series on my shelf to get to, but with great reviews from some trusted avid readers I decided to dive into From Blood and Ash.

After a bit of a slow start, with LOTS of world-building, I was worried this one would take a lot more time than expected to get in to. Around 1/3 of the way in I was hooked: I enjoyed the characters, the central mystery and even though at times I felt my fantasy newbie brain wouldn't be able to grasp what I was reading, I was still able to enjoy the story. There is quite a bit of steam in this one and I LOVED the ending! Sets up the second book perfectly.

This one gets four stars from me because while I really enjoyed it, it didn't have that "unputdownable" characteristic of a 5 star for me.

I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series!

Mini summary: Poppy's life has been planned out for her for as long as she can remember. She has to live a life of isolation and solidarity until her ascension: where she is deemed worthy by the gods. Poppy would much rather be with the guards, fighting the evils that took her family. When she starts to build a relationship with her gorgeous new guard, she learns everything may not be what they seem...