Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout (Page 1 of 12)

BOOK REVIEW: Fall of Ruin and Wrath (Awakening #1) by Jennifer L Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: Fall of Ruin and Wrath (Awakening #1) by Jennifer L ArmentroutFall of Ruin and Wrath (Awakening #1)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

SHE LIVES BY HER INTUITION. HE FEEDS ON HER PLEASURE.

Long ago, the world was destroyed by gods. Only nine cities were spared. Separated by vast wilderness teeming with monsters and unimaginable dangers, each city is now ruled by a guardian―royalty who feed on mortal pleasure.

Born with an intuition that never fails, Calista knows her talents are of great value to the power-hungry of the world, so she lives hidden as a courtesan of the Baron of Archwood. In exchange for his protection, she grants him information.

When her intuition leads her to save a traveling prince in dire trouble, the voice inside her blazes with warning―and promise. Today he’ll bring her joy. One day he'll be her doom.

When the Baron takes an interest in the traveling prince and the prince takes an interest in Calista, she becomes the prince’s temporary companion. But the city simmers with rebellion, and with knights and monsters at her city gates and a hungry prince in her bed, intuition may not be enough to keep her safe.

Calista must choose: follow her intuition to safety or follow her heart to her downfall.

Breathtaking suspense and scorching romance meet in this immersive new fantasy from a mega-bestselling force, Jennifer L. Armentrout.

Review:

Fall of Ruin and Wrath was a dark and sensual romtansy that was so easy to get lost in.  Within those first few pages I had no clue what was going on, but I was terrified.  So take those first few chapters to immerse yourself in this new world.  It’s lethal, archaic and shrouded in mystery. With a dystopian background, that was laced with high fantasy, Fall of Ruin and Wrath easily became an instant favorite!

“We keep meeting under the strangest circumstances,” he noted. “I’m beginning to think fate is afoot.”
“Fate?” I laughed. “You believe in fate?”
“You don’t?”

Calista aka Lis was a paramour to Claude who was a Caelestia; half Hyhborn and half lowborn.  And while I’ve read almost every single book by JLA, over the last decade, Lis was unlike any other heroine that we have met from Armentrout.  Her intuition guided where she went in life and the decisions she made.  She also had the ability to see things happen before they did.  Like how someone would die, or horrific events on the horizon.  And I was fascinated to watch her listen into others thoughts, without needing to touch them.  Yet my heart twisted for Lis.  I questioned whether she truly knew how to have a strong mental bond with others.  She seemed to struggle with that outside of her “brother”, Grady.  Maybe it was because of her gifts?  Or maybe it was because of her childhood?  Or maybe it even had to do with how she ended up as a paramour and nothing truly felt like hers?  But regardless, she seemed to have connections with those around her physically, instead of emotionally. 

“Hold still.”
“I am holding still, but . . . you’re on your knees, your fingers are near my dick, and you’re currently gloriously nude, so . . .”
Undoing the final button, I rolled my eyes. “You can’t even stand on your own two feet and you’re currently regrowing eyeballs. The last thing you need to be thinking about is me on my knees, your dick, or my nudity.”
“I’ve regrown my eyes, na’laa.”
My chin jerked up.

Lis’ intuition one night led her to rescue a Hyhborn.  Hyhborn’s weren’t mortal, they were scions of the Gods.  And the scene she was led to was terrifying, yet I couldn’t help but noticing that I loved her thoughts.  They were real and honest, making it so easy to connect with her.  And the Hyhborn we met?!  I. Was. Obsessed!  Thorne was a book boyfriend many will fall hard for. I loved that he could be sarcastic and also oh so polite.  His manners as he murdered those to keep Lis safe had me cracking up.  Thorne was truly lethal, yet at the same time he was so much fun. He loved to push Lis’ buttons and get a rise out of her while being addictively possessive. Add to all of that that he was capable of admitting when he was wrong. Well. It was impossible not to love everything there was about him.

Na’laa?”
I stopped as something . . . something like hope swelled inside me. Hope for what? I really couldn’t say as I looked over my shoulder at him.
The Lord stood with his back to me, shoulders a tense straight line. “Be careful.”

Around Thorne, Lis could touch him and just be in the moment.  She never got pulled into her brain or saw future events she would prefer not to see. Like she did when she touched other lowborns and Caelestias. So the sexual tension between Lis and Thorne was done fabulously.  It was a slow burn that was filled with the most fabulous banter.  It was impossible not to smile at so many of the moments between them.  And while Thorne and Lis were worlds apart, it always felt like there was something pulling them together. As though there was a higher power connecting them. So because of that, I loved watching the tentative trust build. That they could be comfortable with each other.  That it felt like Lis was finally making an emotional connection with someone. And of course how steamy they could be together too *fans face*.

I connected with him, and my intuition came alive, showing me the future— the excruciating crack of bone in my right arm, then my left. The phantom pain traveled to my throat. I felt it all.
His death.
And I . . . I smiled.

Yes there were other characters outside of Lis and Thorne, but I am rather obsessed with those two. I’m still unsure of how to feel towards Naomi, who was her first friend outside of Grady. And I would love if Lis threw an apple at Claude’s head, like Alex. Yes he took care of Lis as he used her as his own personal lie detector, but I loathed that he called her Pet. There was also a man named Hymel that I kept hoping would die on every page he appeared lol.  Ohhh then there were two friends of Thorne that we didn’t spend a lot of time with, yet I adored both of them.  I can’t wait to get to know them better!  They had found family written all over them!  But on top of those we met, there was a whole world and political intrigue that I’m not even touching on.  It was fascinating and better left for you to discover on your own!

“Don’t.”
My gaze flew back to him.
“I would warn against attempting to run,” he advised, walking past me.
“Because you will stop me?”
“Because I will give chase.” He unhooked the straps holding the short sword to his back as he crossed into the bedchamber. “And I will capture you.”

Fall of Ruin and Wrath was laced with a fascinating world, characters that will steal you heart, mysteries that are intertwined with secrets, and moments that will leave you on the edge of your seat! There were so many moments that were impossible to stop smiling or screaming from excitement. Especially when it came to Thorne. That last page was the most perfect stopping point. Yet I am definitely counting down until the next book is released and we can be back in this world!

PS The shower scene was one of my favorite moments.  Nope, it’s not what you think it is *side smirk*.

Other Favorite Quotes:

My senses opened to him. I saw nothing in his eyes or in my mind.
But I felt something.
A warning.
A reckoning.
A promise of what was to come.
And I knew.

 

“Apologies, my pet. I do get a bit animated when I speak. Got it from my mother.”
“‘ Pet’?” Prince Thorne queried softly.
The back of my neck tingled, and it had nothing to do with intuition.

 

I froze. Tiny hairs lifted along the nape of my neck as the air thickened and the flames stilled. That mouth of mine had surely gotten me in trouble this time.
But Prince Thorne . . . he smiled.
My stomach dipped.
The smile he bestowed was not tight or cold. It was wide and real, showing a hint of teeth and softening the icy, unreal beauty of his features.

 

“Do you finally think of me as a monster?”
I closed my eyes.
“You should,” he said softly. “The blood that is on my hands will never wash off. I wouldn’t even attempt to do so.”

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

BOOK REVIEW: A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash #5) by Jennifer L Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash #5) by Jennifer L ArmentroutA Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash #5)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Only his memories can save her…

A great primal power has risen. The Queen of Flesh and Fire has become the Primal of Blood and Bone—the true Primal of Life and Death. And the battle Casteel, Poppy, and their allies have been fighting has only just begun. Gods are awakening across Iliseeum and the mortal realm, readying for the war to come.

But when Poppy falls into stasis, Cas faces the very real possibility that the dire, unexpected consequences of what she is becoming could take her away from him. Cas is given some advice, though—something he plans to cling to as he waits to see her beautiful eyes open once more: Talk to her.

And so, he does. He reminds Poppy how their journey began, revealing things about himself that only Kieran knows in the process. But it’s anybody’s guess what she’ll wake to or exactly how much of the realm and Cas will have changed when she does.

#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout revisits Poppy and Casteel’s epic love story in the next installment of the Blood and Ash series. But this time, Hawke gets to tell the tale.

Review:

A Soul of Ash and Blood wove an enchanting tale between the past and the present.  It was a phenomenal addition to the From Blood and Ash Series! I thought I was prepared for this story, I was so wrong.  New light was shone on scenes we thought we knew, things arose that left us with burning questions, and those final pages cumulated into a heart stopping ending!  Cas’ story will capture your heart!  A Soul of Ash and Blood was intoxicating, gritty, smile inducing and absolutely impossible to put down!

What he’d said was something I’d already learned the hard way, but his words…
They felt like a warning.
An omen of things to come.

The story started out in the present and within those first few pages my heart was already in my chest.  I shouldn’t have been surprised that it was emotionally intense, or that I cried within that first chapter.  Because while some of those tears were happy, there were others filled with sadness and scared of the unknown.  Something wasn’t right with Poppy.  Cas and Kieran knew it, and Nektas seemed to possessive knowledge that I wanted to pry out of his brain.  That draken could be so blunt, but he cracked me up time and again!  So as Poppy went into stasis, Cas took us back to before he met Poppy.  I loved how JLA skillfully immersed us in a world we already loved, but through Cas’ eyes it was unique, addictive and so much more than I ever could have hoped and dreamed!  As we alternated between the past and the present, this book turned out to be EVERYTHING I didn’t realize I needed!

Kieran shook his head as he turned his stare to the moon. “A Maiden with a wolven-bone dagger and, at the very least, no fear when it comes to using it?” One side of his lips tipped up. “Why do I have a feeling we may have underestimated her?”
I let out a short, low laugh. “Because I think we did.”

Cas took us back to before he met Poppy and was a guard.  I loved his moments with Vikter, oh how I have missed him.  Their interactions were phenomenal!  But most of all I loved getting to hear Cas’  preconceived notions about Poppy, even as he got clues of who the Maiden truly was from others around him.  And when he got to meet her in person, his reactions were all consuming and I always had to know how he would handle the next moment they were together! I could not stop smiling, I could not stop my shouts and screams of happiness, and it was impossible not to laugh at the most inappropriate things.  Seeing violence through Cas’ eyes, well it was hard not to think how he thought haha. His anger and vengeance were electrifying and it seemed to bubble under the surface at times. I loved when things would get violent and each time I fell even harder for him.  One thing that hurt so much though, was getting to see deeper into who Cas was.  His past.  The horrors.  And how it haunted him in the present.  It literally ripped me apart and I felt like I was drowning at times.  I know Poppy said in FBAA what she had felt from him, but I didn’t realize how much it truly consumed him.

“I know you want to do something irresponsible and reckless, but you can’t kill him,” he said. There was no greeting. No need to ask questions. He knew why I was here.
“I’m not going to kill him,” I replied. “I’m only going to murder him.”
Kieran sidestepped, blocking me. “That’s the same thing.”
“No, it’s not. Killing someone implies it could’ve been an accident. What I’m about to do will be completely intentional.”

Getting to hear Cas’ explanations for the whys he did something was absolutely phenomenal!  His dark, humorous thoughts were addictive!  And watching him do things I had no clue he was doing, ohhhhhh be prepared to be surprised again and again by this story!  But one of my favorite things was seeing Poppy through Cas’ eyes.  How she affected him.  How she seeped into his thoughts.  And how his progression of thoughts towards her changed.  It was consuming and will fill your heart with joy!  You know how in FBAA we got to learn the world right along with Poppy?  I felt that all over again with Cas.  Yes he has knowledge for what is truly going on, but he was in the dark for other things.  And watching as light was shown on certain aspects to Cas, it blew my mind.  We got to see so many different sides of Cas.  How he could be his own worst enemy.  How he could be someone’s savior.  How he could be their demise.  And most of all, how he was able to enchant Poppy’s heart and soul.

Their blood was on my hands.
And as fucked-up as it sounded, I could live with that. I had to. But what was hard to swallow? That I’d caused her pain.

As the story unfolded, we got to see lots of fan favorite moments from FBAA, and scenes that weren’t in FBAA too. But some of those scenes that are our favorites, oh we were none the wiser.  So when Cas filled in certain things, wow.  You think you know something, but you truly don’t!  And seeing how he felt through each of those times, fans of this series are going to be clinging onto his every word and thought!  We also got to see Kieran through Cas’ eyes and watching Kieran handle certain situations was epic and shocking.  There are no other words!  And Emil.  Oh poor Emil.  I laughed so hard in a certain situation with him that I should probably feel guilty about, but I don’t haha.  And while I went from desperately wanting to stay in the past, there came a point in the story where the present had us hanging onto every word and moment.  And those final pages?!  Hold on because it is heart pounding and left us desperately wanting that next book!

I wanted to be a good man who would walk away from what he knew he wasn’t worthy or deserving of. The kind Kieran believed I was. The type I had been raised to be. But I wasn’t a good man.
I was just hers.

A Soul of Ash and Blood will have you falling in love with Cas, Poppy, and this series all over again.  Plus the steam in this book through Cas’ eyes *fans face*, it was scorching hot!  I’m so grateful we got this story!  And now I’ll be counting down till that next book releases!

Spoiler Quotes:
View Spoiler »

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers), iBooks (click on titles) & Book Depository (click on book number)


From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) #1
Review:

Jen

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash Series) #2
Review:

Jen

The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash Series) #3
Review:
Jen

A Shadow in the Ember Ash (Flesh and Fire Series) 
#1
Review:

Jen

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash Series) #4
Review:
Jen

A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire Series ) #2

Review:
Jen

A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) 
#5
Review:

Jen
   

BOOK REVIEW: A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2) by Jennifer L Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2) by Jennifer L ArmentroutA Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire #2)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Book Depository
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

The only one who can save Sera now is the one she spent her life planning to kill.

The truth about Sera’s plan is out, shattering the fragile trust forged between her and Nyktos. Surrounded by those distrustful of her, all Sera has is her duty. She will do anything to end Kolis, the false King of Gods, and his tyrannical rule of Iliseeum, thus stopping the threat he poses to the mortal realm.

Nyktos has a plan, though, and as they work together, the last thing they need is the undeniable, scorching passion that continues to ignite between them. Sera cannot afford to fall for the tortured Primal, not when a life no longer bound to a destiny she never wanted is more attainable than ever. But memories of their shared pleasure and unrivaled desire are a siren’s call impossible to resist.

And as Sera begins to realize that she wants to be more than a Consort in name only, the danger surrounding them intensifies. The attacks on the Shadowlands are increasing, and when Kolis summons them to Court, a whole new risk becomes apparent. The Primal power of Life is growing inside her, pushing her closer to the end of her Culling. And without Nyktos’s love—an emotion he’s incapable of feeling—she won’t survive her Ascension. That is if she even makes it to her Ascension and Kolis doesn’t get to her first. Because time is running out. For both her and the realms.

Review:

A Light in the Flame was a mesmerizing, action packed ride!  As joy and heartache wove together as the story unfolded, this book was impossible to put down. So much was up in the air, feelings and motives were changing and as the world showed us even more with what was going on, this intricately plotted story was phenomenal!  It became an instant favorite and A Light in the Flame will easily sweep romance and fantasy lovers away!

“But what I can tell you is something you already know. What you’ve spent your life preparing to become? What I trained you for? It wasn’t a waste.” Those dark, shining eyes held mine. “You are his weakness.”

The story started off exactly where ASITE ended.  I was so nervous for Sera and Ash, especially with what we learned.  I feared for Sera’s future in many different ways.  But thankfully within those first few pages, we got to see their banter.  It was smile inducing, irresistible, and much needed when it felt like the weight of the world was on their shoulders. Duty and sacrifice swirled together while secrets hung in the darkness. And tension racketed up and down.  At times I didn’t feel like I could breathe because I was so scared with what would take place.  Battles swept through the story.  And betrayal rotted the pages too.  The hurt was so intense, in certain moments, that it felt like our hearts would crack wide open.  But through it all, there was loyalty, friendship and love.  And those moments shined so brightly that they chased the shadows away!

“Tell me I’m wrong. Tell me!” he shouted, the shadows spreading until his flesh was the color of midnight streaked with starlight, and the fingers around my wrists became as hard as shadowstone.

My respect and love for Sera grew even more! Sera was loathed by so many, because of what she had planned to do to Nyktos.  And while I didn’t blame anyone for feeling that way, I hoped that she would prove them wrong about her.  So I loved when Sera would stand her ground and do what was right. I loved that she jumped into the fight time and again. Sera was a true leader! That was also terrifying because we knew that Sera would do what was right, and the consequences including her life be damned. She was good, kind, thoughtful and protected those she cared about fiercely. And her bravery also bled into her honesty about talking about herself. But even fear or hurt would creep up on Sera, and it could be hard to escape. So whether she was slicing others with a sword or her words, I cheered her on every step of the way!

“Do not order me about as if I’m a child.”
“I wouldn’t if you didn’t behave like one.”
I saw red. “You sure as hell didn’t think I was behaving like one when you had me in your bed and your fangs in my throat!”
“Whoa,” Ector murmured.
Fiery, silver eyes locked with mine. “Sera.”

Ash, or I guess I should be calling him Nyktos *cries*, was such a complicated soul. He was willing to sacrifice and give so much to protect Sera. But at the same point, he could break our hearts.  Was he only protecting Sera because of the embers? My heart kept fighting me that that couldn’t be the case.  I hoped it was because of her. And as we learned more, Nyktos splintered my heart. On one side, how could you not love him? When he would share the words for how he felt, it was so easy to melt into a puddle. And maybe I took those moments as more, but I don’t care, I melted. He also listened. And he stood up for her. He was always thinking of her. But at the same time there was pain and hurt. I can’t say why, but my breath caught and there were tears. Yet I kept hoping for the best. Nyktos rendered me an emotional mess with his words and actions, whether it was joy or sorrow. And still, I loved him with my whole heart.

Dampness rushed to my eyes, and I quickly looked away. I had to. Ragged, raw emotion swelled. What he said meant the realm to me, because every word he’d spoken had been about me and my actions. Not what he believed about me. Not what I or the embers could do for him, but what I had chosen to do. And for the first time in my life, I felt like I was more than a destiny I’d never agreed to. More than the embers I carried within me.
I felt like… more.

Sera and Nyktos both wanted to protect the other, no matter the cost. And while they tried to keep their guard up, in regards to feeling deeply about the other, they faltered time and again. So the steamy scenes between them were scorching hot! The passion and what they did to each other *fans face*, it was sensual and erotic! But they were both tested. Whether it was with each other or with others. So I appreciated the lighter moments between them. There was a scene with swords that added so much joy, happiness and heart that I can’t think about it without smiling! But truths we don’t even want to face came out. Revelations were shocking. Trust was broken and earned. It was impossible not to be emotional about it. And through every single step I couldn’t help but think that Sera and Nyktos were the ultimate power couple and I kept cheering for them!

“I know you’re strong and can fight. That you’re brave. Needing me or anyone to look out for you doesn’t mean you’re weak, that you can’t defend yourself, or that you’re afraid. We all need someone to watch over us.”
Heat crawled up my throat. “Do you?”
“Desperately,” he whispered.

As powers grew and others made themselves known, this book kept me in the palm of it’s hand. Shocking events happened that left me desperate to figure out what was truly going on. And as we watched things we thought were right, become shaded in another light, the world we knew twisted on its axis.  My mind was blown! So. Many. Times! There were perilous scenes where we didn’t know who lived and who died. Foreshadowing left me terrified or excited. We saw the creation of things we learned to fear in FBAA.  And we also saw some that we loved!  No names, you have to read it to see them again! And I appreciated yet again laughter during the moments that were intense. Whether it was battles or heart wrenching moments, we desperately needed that lightness. I just have to say Jaden, oh how I loved her antics, and Reaver with what he did for Sera, those two easily stole my heart!

“My instincts work completely fine. Earlier they warned me that you’d be angry with my decision to go out onto the Rise.”
His eyes narrowed into thin, glowing slits. “Have you ever tried, oh, I don’t know? Listening to it? Valuing your life?”
“I’ve never really had the opportunity to do so, now, have I?” I snapped.
Nyktos went completely still, all except his eyes. 

With unthinkable sacrifices, shocking revelations and emotional moments that leave tears falling down our face, A Light in the Flame is a must read! I was so excited while reading this book, but dread kept pooling in my stomach too. And there were plenty of scenes that definitely justified that dread! Unspeakable acts made me want to scream at the injustice.  My blood boiled, and I wanted revenge so dark that it would swallow the other person whole. But at the same time, I felt so much hope for what was to come. The friendship, the caring, the love that flowed throughout these pages was heartwarming and will leave a smile on your face. But be prepared, because the ending of this book, ohhhh it’s a good one. Fans of perilous moments will enjoy! And while it’s a cliffhanger in a way, in another way there’s something to think about. To hope for. And while I do that, I’ll be desperately waiting for the release of the next book!

I would not crack here. I would not break. I would not. I would not. I would not. Not today. My hands steadied. My chest loosened. My heart beat. I breathed.
I was nothing once more.

PS  Someones wish broke me.

I clamped my jaw shut as I slammed my palm against the door, searching for anger. For fury. But all I found was grief. Hurt. Disappointment. In him. In me.

PPS I cried 15 times.  Yes 15 times. This book undid me.

 

Spoiler Quotes: I’ll come back on release day and add these, but put a spoiler tag on them ♥

View Spoiler »

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers), iBooks (click on titles) & Book Depository (click on book number)


From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) #1
Review:

Jen

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash Series) #2
Review:

Jen

The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash Series) #3
Review:
Jen

A Shadow in the Ember Ash (Flesh and Fire Series) 
#1
Review:

Jen

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash Series) #4
Review:
Jen

A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire Series ) #2

Review:
Jen

A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) 
#5
Review:

Jen
   

BOOK REVIEW: A Shadow in the Ember (Flesh and Fire #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

I re-read this before diving into A Light into the Flame and I loved it even more the second time around!

BOOK REVIEW: A Shadow in the Ember (Flesh and Fire #1) by Jennifer L. ArmentroutA Shadow in the Ember (Flesh and Fire #1)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Book Depository
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout returns with book one of the all-new, compelling Flesh and Fire series—set in the beloved Blood and Ash world.

Born shrouded in the veil of the Primals, a Maiden as the Fates promised, Seraphena Mierel’s future has never been hers. Chosen before birth to uphold the desperate deal her ancestor struck to save his people, Sera must leave behind her life and offer herself to the Primal of Death as his Consort.

However, Sera’s real destiny is the most closely guarded secret in all of Lasania—she’s not the well protected Maiden but an assassin with one mission—one target. Make the Primal of Death fall in love, become his weakness, and then…end him. If she fails, she dooms her kingdom to a slow demise at the hands of the Rot.

Sera has always known what she is. Chosen. Consort. Assassin. Weapon. A specter never fully formed yet drenched in blood. A monster. Until him. Until the Primal of Death’s unexpected words and deeds chase away the darkness gathering inside her. And his seductive touch ignites a passion she’s never allowed herself to feel and cannot feel for him. But Sera has never had a choice. Either way, her life is forfeit—it always has been, as she has been forever touched by Life and Death.

Review:

A Shadow in the Ember slowly seeped into my heart and consumed my every waking thought.   I couldn’t stop the laughter from bubbling up at the most inappropriate times, the smile that kept appearing or the tears that kept falling down my face.  This story became an instant favorite and is a must read for all fantasy lovers!  And while there were a few twists I guessed correctly, there were so many others I got wrong.  Just when I thought I knew where the story was going, the air got punched out of me time and again.  This story was epic!  Those who love fantasy, JLA or romance will fall hard for A Shadow in the Ember!

“You’ll do what?” he whispered. “Go for that weapon on your thigh again?”
“Yes.”
“Even though you know you wouldn’t be fast enough to deliver a blow.”
My grip on his shirt tightened. “Yes.”
He chuckled softly, and I felt it from my hips to my breasts. “Shh.”
Had he just shushed me?

Sera was to be her kingdoms savior.  The rot had been destroying their land, but a deal made before she was born set her on a path to be the consort to the Primal of Death.  She has been trained since birth and knew that she was to seduce, make him fall in love and then end his life.  All to save her kingdom.  My heart ached for how lonely Sera was and for the unfairness of her life and future.  So while she had been trained ruthlessly, the Primal of Death wasn’t all she expected him to be.

If I had a child, or if any descendant of mine had been harmed, I would burn through both realms just so I could flay the skin from the body of the one who’d hurt them.

I loved Sera!  And now I completely understand why Poppy is the way she is…From Blood and Ash takes place in the future, so you’ll definitely want to read the first three books in that series first before jumping into this story.  Sera was also ever so curious and impulsive at times.  She too was a fighter and went up against those, even if there was no chance of her winning.  She was so fearless, maybe even more so then Poppy since Sera felt like there was a time limit on her life.  Sera knew that there was a chance she could die trying to kill the Primal of Death.  So I loved how Sera didn’t hold back; she was fierce, bold, passionate and called it like it was!

His chin dipped, his features sharpening in the silvery light. “I am not them,” he said, low and deadly soft.
Hairs along the nape of my neck rose, and I fought the urge to take a step back. “I guess I’m lucky?”
His gaze flickered over me. “I’m not sure how lucky you are.”

 I am obsessed with the Primal of Death, aka Nyktos!  He was surrounded in shadows and darkness but my gods he made me smile so much and laugh so hard.  He could be endearing, seductive and enraptured my attention.  There was so much more to Nyktos then meets the eye.  But while he was all of those things, he could also be terrifying.  He would kill and do anything to protect those he cared about.  Nyktos was a complex soul that I think many will fall head over heels in love with too.

My blood thrummed as his hand settled around the nape of my neck. Liessa. Something beautiful and powerful… I felt like that now.

 I didn’t think anyone could rival or top my love of Poppy and Hawke, but oh how wrong I was.  Sera and Nyktos’ banter was deliciously addictive!  They connected so easily, and while so much was unknown, their chemistry was instantaneous too.  Their conversations warmed my heart and as their story progressed, their moments together were passionate, seductive and lust inducing.  This book was definitely one of Jennifer’s sexier books.  The scenes between them were erotic and oh so hot!   I was obsessed!  Except Sera was to end Nyktos.  So while my heart loved how their story played out, I also felt like crying because of their unstoppable fate.

“My interest in you is a very real, very potent need.” His fingers skimmed the curve of my jaw and then the line of my throat. They stopped over my wildly beating pulse. “It’s almost as if it’s become its own thing. A tangible entity. I find myself thinking about it at the most inconvenient moments,” he said, his breath dancing over my lips. Against my better judgement, anticipation sank into my muscles, tightening them.

A Shadow in the Ember was an absolute masterpiece!  There were terrifying creatures that nightmares are made of.  Battle scenes that were epic to watch unfold.  The foreshadowing for what was to come in FBAA gave me chills!  And getting to see characters that show up later in the FBAA Series, oh it was brilliant that we got to learn about their past and see who they were!  Guilt, love, secrets, passion, friendship, life and death wove through the pages and I loved every minute of it.  A Shadow in the Ember is one of my top favorite reads from 2021 and is a must for all fantasy lovers!

He didn’t move. “I see I was correct about you striking me as the type to fight even if you knew you wouldn’t succeed.” His chin brushed the top of my head. “It’s exhausting always being right.”
I threw my head back with a shriek. Pain lanced my skull as I connected with some part of his face.
Fates,” he grunted, and a savage smile tore at my mouth.

PS I just have to say a follow through was beyond epic!

A burn started in my core, spreading to my throat as the eather-laced shadows took shape behind him, forming wings.
I was going to die.
I knew that then as I stared into those so-very-still, dead eyes.

PPS  I screamed out loud multiple times.

For a moment, I could only stare at the shimmering blood coursing down the defined lines of his stomach. How was he still standing?
“Nyktos,” I whispered.

PPPS  So many moments left me breathless.

“You,” he said, his thumb moving in a slow swipe over the side of my throat. There was something about the way he said that. “You are trouble.”

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers), iBooks (click on titles) & Book Depository (click on book number)


From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) #1
Review:

Jen

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash Series) #2
Review:

Jen

The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash Series) #3
Review:
Jen

A Shadow in the Ember Ash (Flesh and Fire Series) 
#1
Review:

Jen

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash Series) #4
Review:
Jen

A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire Series ) #2

Review:
Jen

A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) 
#5
Review:

Jen
   

BOOK REVIEW: The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash #4) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash #4) by Jennifer L. ArmentroutThe War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash #4)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Book Depository
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

War is only the beginning

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout comes book four in her Blood and Ash series.

From the desperation of golden crowns

Casteel Da’Neer knows all too well that very few are as cunning or vicious as the Blood Queen, but no one, not even him, could’ve prepared for the staggering revelations. The magnitude of what the Blood Queen has done is almost unthinkable.

And born of mortal flesh…

Nothing will stop Poppy from freeing her King and destroying everything the Blood Crown stands for. With the strength of the Primal of Life’s guards behind her, and the support of the wolven, Poppy must convince the Atlantian generals to make war her way—because there can be no retreat this time. Not if she has any hope of building a future where both kingdoms can reside in peace.

A great primal power rises…

Together, Poppy and Casteel must embrace traditions old and new to safeguard those they hold dear—to protect those who cannot defend themselves. But war is only the beginning. Ancient primal powers have already stirred, revealing the horror of what began eons ago. To end what the Blood Queen has begun, Poppy might have to become what she has been prophesied to be—what she fears the most.

As the Harbinger of Death and Destruction.


Review:

A War of Two Queens was a stunning continuation of The Blood and Ash Series!  Within the pages swirled hope, love, friendship, death, trials and so much more.  And while this story is within the From Blood and Ash Series, the ties into A Shadow in the Ember intensified my emotions even more.  It is a must read before you dive into this book!  With tears, laughter, heartache and joy mingled together, this book was impossible to put down. If you’re a fan of this series, fantasy, JLA or romance, you definitely need these books in your life!

Together.
Always.
And forever.

From the very first page, my heart was in my throat.  I was elated that we got chapters in Castel’s pov, but it hurt at the same time.  The pain and suffering we watched him go through gutted me to the core.  I wanted more than retribution, I wanted to watch those who hurt him burn a slow and painful death.  The Blood Queen had to be stopped!  And while Poppy had the draken and wolven behind her, she needed to solidify the Altlanians to join her battle.  To take down the Blood Queen and free her King. The paths Cas and Poppy took throughout this story were an action packed, emotional ride!

If I screamed, if I gave in to all the pain and rage, the sound of desperation and anguish would become wrath and fury. The scream choking me, the power building inside me, tasted of death.
And a small part of me wanted to let it out.

I loved watching Poppy became even more confident in herself and her decisions.  I wanted to stand up and cheer for her.  She was so strong and someone to look up to.  Yet at the same time, her hurt bled from the pages.  The trials she had to go through and the heart wrenching lessons she learned continually pulled on my emotions.  And Poppy’s heart wasn’t whole.  She ached for Cas.  For knowing the horror that he must be going through.  But through it all, thank the gods she had Kieran.  I loved how he stood by her in her time of need.  I loved that he had her back without any hesitation.  Kieran was a beautiful soul and the truest of friends.  It was so easy to love him.

“Two hearts. We’re two hearts.” I brushed my lips over her brow, closing my eyes. “One soul. We’ll find each other again. We always will—”

Cas is my top favorite book boyfriend.  The things he would do for love and those he cared for?!  He was everything I felt all of his emotions right along with him, but for parts of the story, I didn’t even know what to feel at times.  Rage, sorrow, loss?  I didn’t even know.  It all blurred together.  But even when he was backed into a corner, I knew Cas would persevere.  Just like he always did.  No matter how dire the situation.  And with Cas there was also elation, hope and so much love that warmed me from the inside out.  I couldn’t wait until I could see him joking around with Poppy again. For them to touch. For the passion to burn between them.  I needed them back together and whole.

His hand tightened in my loose braid of hair. “He is still yours. You are still his.”
Tears stung my throat, my eyes. “Always,” I whispered hoarsely.

Even through the heartache and pain, we were given so many moments that made us laugh and smile.  They helped heal my heart and allowed me to breathe.  Reaver, Delano, Netta, and so many more added to that.  The friendships that wove throughout this story were breathtaking and real.  It added the lightness that was desperately needed in the moments of darkness.  And I for one can’t wait to see where some of them go!  Although I have to say that Reaver was definitely one of my top favorites.  He could be such a grump and it almost seemed like he could antagonize others without any effort at all lol, but I absolutely loved him!

I knew what I would feel if I let my senses stretch. Horror. Horror so potent, I would never be able to wash it away.

With questions answered that made me scream I knew it out loud, there were others that made me second guess everything I knew. The twists and turns in this book were heart-stopping! I never knew what would happen next or who would be safe.  I was kept on the edge of my seat trying my best to keep my emotions in check.  But it never worked.  Tears silently streaked down my face.  And other times I couldn’t stifle the gasp or sobs this story invoked from me.  Thankfully there were happy tears mixed in their also.  But hold on, because there were so many emotions within these pages!

My Queen. My soul. My savior. Poppy.

The War of Two Queens consumed my every waking thought and this story easily became an instant favorite.  The series continued to unfold in a way that was not only intricate but had me beyond fascinated!  And the characters easily owned my heart. I was so happy to see that the ending left us at a spot where we could somewhat relax, yet I’m beyond ecstatic to pick up that next book! I absolutely loved this book and this series. I can’t recommend them enough!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

***Coming back on release day to share some of my favorite quotes and one thought I had.  There are LOTS of spoilers so please don’t click unless you have read this book***

View Spoiler »

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers), iBooks (click on titles) & Book Depository (click on book number)


From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash Series) #1
Review:

Jen

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash Series) #2
Review:

Jen

The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash Series) #3
Review:
Jen

A Shadow in the Ember Ash (Flesh and Fire Series) 
#1
Review:

Jen

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash Series) #4
Review:
Jen

A Light in the Flame (Flesh and Fire Series ) #2

Review:
Jen

A Soul of Ash and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) 
#5
Review:

Jen
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