Disclaimer: I’m an amazon affiliate. This means I may earn a commission if you purchase something through my affiliate links, at no extra cost to you. There are affiliate links in this blog page, by purchasing through the link it supports the blog. For more detail check out the disclaimer page.
A world coloured with darkness, drenched with blood, yet intriguing and alluring. But is “From Blood and Ash” truly worth your time and all this hype?
Before I share my thoughts on whether it’s worth the hype, I believe it’s important for readers to form their own opinions about the novel and decide whether they would like to read it.
Without further ado, let’s dive in, shall we?
Contents:
1. Synopsis
2. Would I Enjoy Reading It?
3. Is the Novel Worth Reading?
4. Notable Aspects of the Novel
5. My Opinions
6. Conclusion
Synopsis:
Today, we explore the intricacies of Jennifer L. Armentrout’s novel, “From Blood and Ash.” This fantasy saga promises a journey into a realm where darkness and secrets reign supreme, offering readers a compelling narrative infused with suspense.
At the heart of the tale lies Poppy, a protagonist defying conventions as the Maiden, a figure of reverence in her kingdom. Her evolution from uncertainty to strength forms a central theme, drawing readers into her world with an irresistible allure. Themes of self-discovery, identity, and empowerment are explored as Poppy navigates her role and destiny as the Maiden.
Romance takes centre stage with Hawke, a guard whose enigmatic presence adds layers of intrigue to the narrative. Their burgeoning relationship is fraught with tension, keeping readers engrossed as it unfolds amidst the backdrop of danger and uncertainty. Themes of love, trust, and loyalty intertwine with the romance, adding depth to their dynamic.
Armentrout’s prowess in world-building shines through as she crafts a vivid and immersive landscape. From the opulent halls of the palace to the untamed wilderness beyond, each setting is meticulously detailed, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Themes of power struggles, fate, and the clash between light and darkness permeate the richly developed world.
However, it’s the unexpected twists and turns that truly captivate, ensuring that the journey through “From Blood and Ash” is anything but predictable. Ancient prophecies and hidden adversaries lurk around every corner, challenging characters and readers alike. Themes of destiny, betrayal, and the search for truth propel the narrative forward, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
“From Blood and Ash” is a fantasy novel that takes readers on a captivating journey through a world teeming with secrets and betrayal. At its core, it’s a tale of love, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom. With its richly developed characters and intricate plot lines, it’s a story that will keep you guessing until the very end.
Would I Enjoy Reading It?
I would recommend this series for you if you’re interested in reading about:
– Fantasy
– Romance (slow-paced)
– Falling in love with a guard
– Enemies to lovers (though I disagree)
– Plot twists
I would recommend this series for you if you liked the following novels:
– Red Queen
– Shatter Me
– Once Upon a Broken Heart
Still unsure? Here are some quotes to give you a taste of the magic within “From Blood and Ash”:
“When you listen to me, I think the stars will fall.” He followed me down so he spoke just above my ear. “I wish I could capture this moment somehow.”
“his gaze latched on to mine. “I’m going to fix it. I’ll make the pain go away. I’ll make it all go away. You won’t carry one more scar.”
“You cannot die. I will not allow it.”
“There will be no new scars,” he said. “That is what I promised.”
“I am not a good man.” He swallowed hard. “But I am trying to be right now.”
“he wants you even though he knows better, even though he knows it will end in yet another tragedy.”
“So, fight me. Argue with me. See if you can actually injure me next time. I dare you.”
“I won’t ever prevent you from lifting a sword to protect your life or those you care about,” he said. “But I won’t let you shove that sword through your own heart to prove a point.”
From Blood and Ash by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Is the Novel Worth Reading?
Let’s hear from you first. If you found yourself saying “yes” to all or the majority of the above, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Personally, I don’t think this novel is worth reading because it was way too slow-paced for my liking. If you don’t have a problem with skimming the novel just for the plot twists (like I did), then it’s an okay read. So, it’s clear that I don’t think the novel is worth the hype.
Notable Aspects of the Novel:
Speed: Very slow-paced (though it sped up towards the end)
Spice: 🌶️
Rating: 3.8 ⭐️ (My personal rating of the series)
This novel is the first in a six-book series.
My Opinion:
Now, let’s delve into my perspective. Firstly, let me clarify why I don’t perceive the trope as “enemies to lovers.” I’ll attempt to explain it without revealing spoilers.
Initially, Poppy and the love interest were strangers, as events unfolded, Poppy begins to acknowledge her feelings. It wasn’t until the final few chapters that the love interest divulged a long-held secret. However, by then, their love had already blossomed, and despite Poppy briefly viewing him as an adversary, her affection remained. Hence, I lean towards categorising it as more of a “lovers to enemies” trope (albeit with mutual affection!?).
One aspect I found challenging about the novel was its slow pace. Although it did pick up eventually, a substantial portion of the narrative was painful to read.
The author excelled in world-building, immersing us deeply into the story’s setting. However, the leisurely pace led me to skim through some of the world-building passages to hasten the reading process (which proved effective).
Regarding world-building, I believe a better balance between plot progression and world-building could have enhanced the reader’s enjoyment.
Despite contemplating skipping the second book, the final chapters proved too intriguing to resist. The unexpected plot twists and revelations in the concluding pages, particularly the revelation that upended everything Poppy knew, left me eagerly anticipating the next instalment. The last page of “From Blood and Ash” had me sitting on the edge of my seat, ready to jump up and slam the book shut with anticipation of the second novel and how the plot plays out.
Due to its spice rating, I recommend “From Blood and Ash” for readers aged 18 and above, as it contains explicit scenes unsuitable for younger audiences.
Conclusion:
Overall, ‘From Blood and Ash’ emerges as a captivating narrative filled with twists and turns, despite its slowe pace. Its promise of an emotional rollercoaster is delivered through intricate plot twists and compelling character arcs. However, while it may fall short of some expectations, it still offers an engaging experience for readers seeking a blend of fantasy and romance.
Now that you’ve delved into my reflections, have you formed your opinion of this novel? I encourage you (if you’re interested in reading the novel) to embark on your own journey through ‘From Blood and Ash’ and form your own impressions. You can grab the book from amazon here. Whether you find yourself swept away by its enchanting world or left pondering its intricacies, sharing your thoughts and experiences with others in the comment section below can enrich the reading experience for all. Happy reading!
