Series: Blood and Ash

The War of Two Queens (Blood and Ash #4)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: Amazon, iBooks
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 »

As someone who was extremely anti-joining, I should have had faith and trusted Jen to write it in a way that I was comfortable with. I’ve read her books since 2014 and she has never once steered me wrong.  The way the joining was written was explicit in some ways but not in others.  It was steamy enough for those who were wanting it but also respectful in a way for those who didn’t want it.  I didn’t feel as though it took away from Poppy and Cas.  I didn’t feel as though their relationship was altered.  It felt natural and as a way to protect Kieran ♥.

It had been my message that had antagonized the Blood Queen. My hand that held the blade that’d severed King Jalara’s head. My actions that had guided the Blood Queen’s hand. I had taken the risk , believing she wouldn’t harm him. Not when she needed him. I’d been mistaken.
I had brought this onto him.

 

“You have me,” he swore against my swollen lips. “Always.”
“And forever,” I whispered.

 

“From the first moment I saw you smile… And heard you laugh? Gods,” I rasped, and she shuddered, her beautiful eyes closing. “From the first time I saw you nock an arrow and fire without hesitation? Handle a dagger and fight beside another? Fight me? I was in awe. I’m never not in awe of you. I’m always utterly mesmerized. I’ll never stop being that. Always and forever.”

 

The war had started when I killed King Jalara. But this… this was the first battle. My hold on the reins tightened as my heart thumped heavily.
This was really happening.

 

“That hurt more than any of his punches did. I think you cracked a few ribs.”
“I’m about to crack your face if you say one more word,” I retorted.
“Crack his face?” Casteel repeated, his brows flying up.
“Yours, too,” I warned.
A slow, bloody grin spread across his lips, and that stupid, godsforsaken dimple appeared. I just knew he was about to say something that would make me want to punch him.

 

“You’ll probably be concerned to hear this, but also not surprised,” Casteel said, and the smoky, spicy flavor in my mouth crowded out the taste of death. “But I found that wildly… hot.”
“There’s something wrong with him,” Reaver muttered from behind us. “Isn’t there?”
There most definitely was, but I loved him for it.

“You punch him?” Tawny asked, blinking.
“No. Not really.” Poppy’s cheeks turned red.
“She has stabbed me, though.” I took Poppy’s hand. “In the chest.”
“Oh, my gods,” Poppy snapped as Tawny’s eyes went wide. “You really need to stop telling people that.”

 

“Hell, yes , I am.” He lowered his head to mine, his voice low when he said, “I cannot wait to feel your fangs on my skin.”
Warmth crept into my face. “Cas—”
“On lots of places,” he added.
“Fucking gods,” Kieran muttered.
Casteel laughed as he brushed his lips over mine.

 

My heart beat so fast, it was like the fluttering wings of a wild bird taking flight. “I’m safe with both of you.”
“Always,” Kieran confirmed.
Casteel’s lip brushed my chin. “And forever.”

 

“From blood and ash,” I shouted, lifting the hand joined with Poppy’s. People echoed the words through the town and the valley.
Poppy looked up at me and then faced the crowd as she lifted the hand that held Kieran’s. “We have risen!”

 

“Don’t make me do this, Penellaphe.”
“I’m going to kill you,” I said as I stalked forward, and it was that voice, the one full of smoke and shadow. “I’m going to rip you apart.”
Her eyes flared wide as she skidded back several feet. A burst of eather left her.
And I laughed. « Hide Spoiler

Reading Order & Links:

Amazon (click on covers) & iBooks (click on titles)

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	A Fire in the Flesh (Flesh and Fire Series) #3 Review: Jen	Visions of Flesh and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) #5.5 Review: Jen

The ​Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash #3)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: Amazon, iBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Bow Before Your Queen Or Bleed Before Her…

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

She's been the victim and the survivor…

Poppy never dreamed she would find the love she’s found with Prince Casteel. She wants to revel in her happiness but first they must free his brother and find hers. It’s a dangerous mission and one with far-reaching consequences neither dreamed of. Because Poppy is the Chosen, the Blessed. The true ruler of Atlantia. She carries the blood of the King of Gods within her. By right the crown and the kingdom are hers.

The enemy and the warrior…

Poppy has only ever wanted to control her own life, not the lives of others, but now she must choose to either forsake her birthright or seize the gilded crown and become the Queen of Flesh and Fire. But as the kingdoms’ dark sins and blood-drenched secrets finally unravel, a long-forgotten power rises to pose a genuine threat. And they will stop at nothing to ensure that the crown never sits upon Poppy’s head.

A lover and heartmate…

But the greatest threat to them and to Atlantia is what awaits in the far west, where the Queen of Blood and Ash has her own plans, ones she has waited hundreds of years to carry out. Poppy and Casteel must consider the impossible—travel to the Lands of the Gods and wake the King himself. And as shocking secrets and the harshest betrayals come to light, and enemies emerge to threaten everything Poppy and Casteel have fought for, they will discover just how far they are willing to go for their people—and each other.

And now she will become Queen…

Review:

You always had the power in you.

The Crown of Gilded Bones was an epic continuation of the From Blood and Ash Series! Betrayals, lies, and secrets wove their way through this book. While friendship, love and trust were there too. I loved how it all came together and created a story that was stunningly brilliant and magnificently crafted! It gave me chills, caused tears to fall down my face, and made me to laugh out loud so much, sometimes at the most inappropriate times. If you’re a fan of this series, or are contemplating picking it up, I can’t recommend it enough! It’s definitely one of my top favorite series ever!

I opened my eyes as the wolven stopped, lifting their heads to the sky. Their ears perked. My one-handed grip on the reins tightened as Setti pranced nervously beneath me as I reached down, placing my hand over the small pouch at my hip. The ridges of the small toy horse pressed against my palm. I stared at the banners, at the crest that represented Casteel and I, as large, winged shadows fell over the armies of Atlantia as they rode west.

This story was action packed and EVERYTHING I could have wanted and more. With my heart in my throat, it felt like I was watching a movie play out. We ended up getting so many answers to questions from the first two books and we got to learn everything right along with Poppy. I loved that she was in the dark too and that we got to piece things together with her. I also loved seeing how much she grew! From wanting to learn how to ride a horse by herself, to discovering mysteries from her past, to even watching her harness her powers, she was impressive! My love and admiration for Poppy grew, especially when she learned to use her voice and put others in their place that deserved it! And standing strongly by her side was her husband Cas, who I am beyond obsessed with.

“You know, don’t you?” He searched my eyes with his. “What you mean to me? What I feel for you?”
“Yes.”
He wiped away another tear with his thumb. “I never knew it could feel like this. That I could feel this for someone. But I do—I love you.”

Cas was seductive and lethal as ever. We got to see the depths he would go to keep Poppy safe.  He loved her with his heart, soul and every single thing that he was! And while my heart broke for the both of them at times, I loved how they became a formidable team. They talked and worked things out together. They were truly equals in their relationship. Poppy and Cas became the ultimate couple! And while the first two books were sexy….you guys!! This story seemed even more sexual! Poppy and Cas could go from sweet to beyond sensual *fans face*. I loved their moments together. I loved that they tried new things. And I loved a water scene the most, oh it was soooo hot! This book was seductive and so many fans of this series are going to love some of their more erotic moments!

That primal power surged, invading all of my senses. It silenced every emotion inside me until only one remained: vengeance. There was nothing else. No empathy. No compassion.
I was me.
And yet, I was something else entirely.

We got to spend time with so many of our favorites like Kieran.  I loved watching his relationship with Poppy grow!  Plus I kept my fingers crossed that we would get to see Ian and Tawny! But there was so much unknown. Who could Poppy and Cas truly trust?!  I found myself shocked to the core quite a few times over how things unfolded. Twists and turns collided with seemly innocent scenes that left me staring at the pages. Betrayal. Death in places I never thought of that hurt. Plans in place that rocked their world and left me terrified for Poppy.  And so much more.  My heart shattered at the unfairness of their world.  I cried so many tears. Yet, I kept hoping for retribution for certain things. Because this is Poppy and Cas. No one will stand in their way or not be punished for their wrong doings. I had so much faith and what unfolded was legendary!

“You will bow before your Queen.” Casteel eyed the Atlantian coolly. “Or you will bleed before her. It is your choice.”

The Crown of Gilded Bones will sweep you away and become an instant favorite! Especially since there was so much light in this story! I was beyond giddy multiple times over how things played out. And a few scenes had me laughing so hard I had tears coursing down my cheeks! You guys!!!! I want to say so much more but I also want you to discover all of these precious and heartfelt moments yourself. Just know that this story was filled with countless smile inducing and swoon worthy moments!  But that ending?! Muahahaha, it was heart stopping and I will be counting down the days until I can read the next book!

“What is going on with you two?” Jasper asked.
“Apparently, there’s a Willa who wrote a sex diary of some sort,” Kieran said with a sigh. “It’s Poppy’s favorite book or something.”
I turned to the wolven as Casteel made a choking sound again. “It is not my favorite book.”
“Nothing to be ashamed of if it is,” he said with an indifferent shrug, but I tasted his sugary amusement.
“A sex book?” Jasper repeated.
I was going to wither up and die right here.

PS I love that Journal! New passages were read and *fans face again* they were beyond scorching HOT!

More Favorite Quotes:

“Well,” Casteel drew out the word. “That will not be a quick death.”
Watching the stone turn black in the moonlight for a moment, I looked at Casteel. “I was wrong before. Some don’t deserve the honor of a quick death.”
One side of his mouth quirked, hinting at a dimple as his gaze flickered over my face. “Such a stunning, vicious little creature.”

He was beautiful. He was brave. He was intelligent. He was kind and accepting. He was ferocious.
And he was mine.

“I—”
“Let me guess,” he said. “You have a question.”
I frowned as I crossed my arms over my chest.
“What?” He glanced over at me.
“Nothing.” I exhaled heavily. A moment passed. “Kieran?”
“Yeah?”
“I have a question.”
He sighed, but there was a slight curve to his lips. “What is your question, Poppy?”

It was okay to be nervous. Who wouldn’t be in my situation? But I wasn’t afraid.
Because they were right.
I was brave.
I was fearless.
And I ran from no one and nothing—and that included a crown.

“I wish we weren’t about to have this meeting because I really want to fuck you on this table right now.”
My eyes widened.
“Gods,” Kieran muttered, sitting back as he dragged a hand over his face.

Silence.
A tremor rippled through me. The hum in my chest pushed and expanded, and my heart—my soul—twisted because I already knew. Oh, gods, deep down, I already knew the answer. I cracked as I drew in a too-shallow breath.

*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)

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	A Fire in the Flesh (Flesh and Fire Series) #3 Review: Jen	Visions of Flesh and Blood (Blood and Ash Series) #5.5 Review: Jen