From Blood and Ash is a book that opens up your imagination in new and exciting ways. The novel itself eludes a lot of expectations we tend to have about genres. It falls both in the fantasy and romance category.
It sets the stage with magic, complex worldbuilding, romance, and a group of characters urged on by their destinies. It’s a novel where magic meets romance through a thrilling plot.
From Blood and Ash was written by Jennifer L. Armentrout. She was born on June 11, 1980, and has written books mostly in the new adult genre. Her works are romance books with elements of fantasy, science fiction, and often strong female characters.
Some of her works include other fantasy romance books such as her first book Obsidian in 2011 and Moonlight Scandals in 2019. She has won numerous awards for her books that have been New York Times and USA Today bestsellers. From Blood and Ash was nominated for The Goodreads Choice Awards 2020.
In this book review, you’ll learn about the From Blood and Ash series published by Blue Box Press. Bear in mind that there is a very light spoiler FAQ at the end of this article about the way the book ends.
What is From Blood and Ash about?
Blood and Ash is a fantasy novel that follows the story of Penellaphe (Poppy), an 18-year-old maiden who has been isolated from the world due to her status. Her task is to undertake the ascension and become the next queen.
However, she uncovers dark secrets as she embarks on her journey of self-discovery. Together, with her personal guard Hawke, they fight the evil Craven that lurk in the kingdom, also encountering vampires, werewolves, Atlantians, and Prince Casteel, The Dark One. Together with Hawke, Poppy finds her true identity.
The book explores the overarching themes of identity and questioning authority as Poppy begins to analyze the rules that were presented to her as destiny. Poppy learns from her mentor Vikter while developing a romantic relationship with Hawke. It’s through her questioning that she learns about the true power she holds.
From Blood and Ash is a series that is followed by book two, A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire, and the third book, The Crown of Gilded Bones. The series continues Poppy’s journey as she navigates the dangers of the kingdom, threats to her own identity, and those she loves.
The question of her identity intertwines with the themes of love, sacrifice, and trust. FBAA is a book with both a thrilling and captivating story combining, magic, love, and destiny.
From Blood and Ash – Our book review
From Blood and Ash is perfect for those who love a good slow-burn romance book. The storyline takes its time with its complex characters, giving them a thorough space for development while exploring their relationships.
The slower initial pace of the novel picks up which complements the unpredictability of the plot. From Blood and Ash is a book with many unexpected twists, making the reader want more. It’s a good thing there’s a whole series and there’s only so much you can learn by reading the synopsis.
Throughout the book, you’ll learn to relate to the characters. Poppy has a need to live outside the castle and she has a longing for freedom despite having less experience. At the same time, she is determined, strong, and resourceful when the moment calls for it.
It’s no wonder Hawke says she’s “a murderous little creature.”
Poppy is willing to turn her back to everything she knows in her life to make her circumstances better. She is altogether a brave character and independent in her goals. Her progress is something to look towards in the second book too.
The relationship between Poppy and her new guard Hawke is central to this book. That’s no surprise, it is a romance after all. It takes time to build up and both characters learn about each other before growing intimate.
The story of the maiden and the royal guard comes together as the book goes on. Poppy’s innocence is complemented by Hawke’s protectiveness and confidence. Their relationship grows steamy and heartwarming as they explore a forbidden love.
But at the same time, their destinies intertwine on a much higher level. Poppy is a maiden that is destined to be offered to the gods for the ascended. As time presses on, the complex plot unveils a web of lies that have been told to her that are keeping her in seclusion and foreshadowing her fate.
Taking all these elements into consideration, From Ash and Blood is an action-packed high fantasy book with elements of paranormal romance. The whole book explores the steamy relationship of Poppy and Hawke while guiding you through an exciting storyline that won’t disappoint.
So, be sure to put From Blood and Ash by JLA on your tbr (To Be Read) list. Many bloggers have been talking about this book and many compare it to popular fantasy books by the famous writer Sarah J. Maas.
Find Jennifer L. Armentrout’s work on Speechify Audiobooks
If you really love books by Jennifer Armentrout, then Speechify is a good place to listen to them. Speechify audiobooks have a wide selection of titles in the fantasy and romance genres. You can listen to your favorite literary works on the go while maximizing productivity.
Or you can adjust the reading speed, sit back, and listen to Speechify audiobooks by Jennifer L. Armentrout while relaxing.
FAQ
Is From Blood and Ash series worth reading?
Yes, the From Blood and Ash series is worth reading for fans of fantasy romance novels. It has garnered lots of praise.
Is From Blood and Ash a steamy book?
Yes, From Blood and Ash features steamy romantic scenes. They are explicit and there are romantic scenes between the two main characters.
Does From Blood and Ash have inappropriate scenes?
Yes, From Blood and Ash contains some explicit content and may not be appropriate for all readers.
What genre is From Blood and Ash book?
From Blood and Ash is a fantasy romance novel with elements of adventure and magic. It also falls into the new adult genre.
Does From Blood and Ash have a happy ending?
Blood and Ash has a satisfying ending that wraps up the story while also setting up the next book in the series.
What is the From Blood and Ash series about?
It follows the story of a young woman named Poppy who is protected from the world due to her special status as a maiden but dreams of adventure and freedom and her journey to uncover the secrets of her past and her destiny with a mysterious guard named Hawke.