Tag: Vampires (Page 1 of 7)

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
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)


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

BOOK REVIEW: The ​Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash #3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: The ​Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash #3) by Jennifer L. ArmentroutThe ​Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and Ash #3)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
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

BOOK REVIEW: A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash #2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash #2) by Jennifer L. ArmentroutA Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Blood and Ash #2)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

Is Love Stronger Than Vengeance?

A Betrayal…

Everything Poppy has ever believed in is a lie, including the man she was falling in love with. Thrust among those who see her as a symbol of a monstrous kingdom, she barely knows who she is without the veil of the Maiden. But what she does know is that nothing is as dangerous to her as him. The Dark One. The Prince of Atlantia. He wants her to fight him, and that’s one order she’s more than happy to obey. He may have taken her, but he will never have her.

A Choice….

Casteel Da’Neer is known by many names and many faces. His lies are as seductive as his touch. His truths as sensual as his bite. Poppy knows better than to trust him. He needs her alive, healthy, and whole to achieve his goals. But he’s the only way for her to get what she wants—to find her brother Ian and see for herself if he has become a soulless Ascended. Working with Casteel instead of against him presents its own risks. He still tempts her with every breath, offering up all she’s ever wanted. Casteel has plans for her. Ones that could expose her to unimaginable pleasure and unfathomable pain. Plans that will force her to look beyond everything she thought she knew about herself—about him. Plans that could bind their lives together in unexpected ways that neither kingdom is prepared for. And she’s far too reckless, too hungry, to resist the temptation.

A Secret…

But unrest has grown in Atlantia as they await the return of their Prince. Whispers of war have become stronger, and Poppy is at the very heart of it all. The King wants to use her to send a message. The Descenters want her dead. The wolven are growing more unpredictable. And as her abilities to feel pain and emotion begin to grow and strengthen, the Atlantians start to fear her. Dark secrets are at play, ones steeped in the blood-drenched sins of two kingdoms that would do anything to keep the truth hidden. But when the earth begins to shake, and the skies start to bleed, it may already be too late.

Review:

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire was an epic continuation of the Blood and Ash Series. This story brought out all of my emotions! The laughter constantly floated out of me, I cried more tears then I could count, my smile was a permanent fixture on my face and at times uncertainty pooled in my chest. I loved every single minute of it! If you’re a fan of addictive fantasies, fearless heroines and the most enticing of book boyfriends, then you definitely need to add this one to your tbr!

He was both the villain and the hero, the monster and the monster-slayer.

This book picked up right where From Blood and Ash stopped. Deceit and lies swirled around Poppy. So much of what she thought was true wasn’t. Her Kingdom, Hawke, to even herself. My heart ached watching her come to terms with it all. But Poppy persevered. She was brave, fearless and faced challenged head on. She was someone that you could look up to and respect. And I loved listening to her voice as we traversed this new chapter of her life with her. Especially anytime she was near Casteel.

“Most people aren’t as insane as you,” I said in a throaty voice that wasn’t mine.
“That’s not a very nice thing to say.” He scraped harder with his sharp teeth, just below where he’d bitten me before, and I gasped as my body jerked. “And the truth is, you like my brand of insanity.”
My blood pounded through me in a dizzying push. “I don’t like anything about you.”
He laughed as his lips skimmed the side of my throat. “I love how you lie.”

Oh you guys, Casteel was the embodiment of intoxication. I am obsessed with him. I didn’t care that he could be cold and ruthless at times. I didn’t care that he could kill without a second thought. He did what he had to do to keep those he loved safe and to get what he wanted. So the way he protected and respected Poppy made my heart race. The way he spoke to her made me smile and laugh. And the way he looked or touched her set my soul on fire. Casteel is officially my favorite book boyfriend ever!

“Just pretend?” I trembled as the tips of his fingers skated down the side of my throat, around to the nape of my neck.
“Pretend.” His lips hovered above mine once more, right there, teasing.
I closed my eyes, my voice barely more than a whisper. “Yes.”

This story was filled with not only a physical, but an emotional journey. So I loved watching Poppy and Casteel figure out their way alone and together. There was the proposal, frightening creatures, horrific truths, obstacles that seemed impossible to breach and deals to be made. Trust, faith, and love shimmered across the pages but so did the uncertainty of their world, what was to come and their feelings for each other.

He claimed my lips as if he were staking a claim to my very soul. The possibility that he was already well on his way to doing so should’ve served as a dire warning, but I was far too immersed, far too gone at the feel of him, lost in how demanding his lips were.

Anytime Poppy and Casteel were together, I would find myself laughing, smiling or sighing. Well also tears a time or two orrrr more. But their relationship was so deep, so real. I loved how hard Poppy fought against Casteel. She tried her best to not cave, to not care for him. But he was Casteel, he was irresistible. So while they may fight, bicker, and wear masks around each other, at the end of the day they were perfectly imperfect together.

His forehead dropped to mine. “There is one more thing I need. Something that I’ve needed for days. Weeks. Months. Maybe forever.” The bridge of his nose brushed mine. “But I know you won’t allow it. Not like this.”
The pounding in my chest moved lower. “What…what have you needed for so long?”
You.”
I shuddered.

A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire was seductive, addictive and mesmerizing. There was a fierceness to this story that consumed me. It was impossible to put down and not to feel everything all these characters did. We got to know characters deeper….I love Kieran! And we got to dive into their world and see so many things unfold that I can’t talk about. It’s killing me to keep quiet! A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire was absolutely breathtaking and I can’t recommend it enough!

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

Other Favorite Quotes:

“You’re beautiful when you’re quiet and somber, but when you laugh? You rival the sunrise over the Skotos Mountains.” – Casteel
“I have a lot of blood on my hands, Poppy. Sometimes, so much that I don’t think they’ll ever be clean. So much that I don’t know if I ever want them to be.”
The next time I saw Casteel, I was going to shove the stupid knife so far into his chest, he would have to dig it out.
“You don’t smell like that to me,” he murmured, and a shiver curled its way down my spine. “You smell like honeydew.”
Oh, my gods….

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

BOOK REVIEW: From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

BOOK REVIEW: From Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash #1)  by Jennifer L. ArmentroutFrom Blood and Ash (Blood and Ash #1)
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

A Maiden…

Chosen from birth to usher in a new era, Poppy’s life has never been her own. The life of the Maiden is solitary. Never to be touched. Never to be looked upon. Never to be spoken to. Never to experience pleasure. Waiting for the day of her Ascension, she would rather be with the guards, fighting back the evil that took her family, than preparing to be found worthy by the gods. But the choice has never been hers.

A Duty…

The entire kingdom’s future rests on Poppy’s shoulders, something she’s not even quite sure she wants for herself. Because a Maiden has a heart. And a soul. And longing. And when Hawke, a golden-eyed guard honor bound to ensure her Ascension, enters her life, destiny and duty become tangled with desire and need. He incites her anger, makes her question everything she believes in, and tempts her with the forbidden.

A Kingdom…

Forsaken by the gods and feared by mortals, a fallen kingdom is rising once more, determined to take back what they believe is theirs through violence and vengeance. And as the shadow of those cursed draws closer, the line between what is forbidden and what is right becomes blurred. Poppy is not only on the verge of losing her heart and being found unworthy by the gods, but also her life when every blood-soaked thread that holds her world together begins to unravel.

Review:

From Blood and Ash is my favorite book ever! The story was layered and the twists and turns were breathtaking. The sexual tension was absolutely perfect and the characters are forever etched into my heart. The storyline enchanted me and the action kept me glued to the pages. This book refused to be put down! If you love fantasy and romance, you definitely need to add this one to your tbr!

“You’re such a bad influence,” I murmured as I placed my hand in his.
Hawke curled his fingers around mine. The weight and warmth of his hand was a pleasant shock. “Only the bad can be influenced, Princess.”

The story started off racy, but the world they lived in could be so harsh. We were brought into a land with castles, Kings, Queens, Lords, Ladies, commoners and I was obsessed learning about it all. The Ascended ruled the land, and were given gifts from the Gods. They had fought a war hundreds of years ago, but were still plagued by the Atlantians who believed Prince Casteel should be the rightful ruler. He was said to be the reason behind most of the death that was brought to their land. And the threat of creatures that were made out of nightmares always felt a breath away. While Poppy had a past with them, she wouldn’t let fear rule her present or future!

“We’re going to walk out of here,” he said. “You’re not going to make a sound, and you’re not going to give me any trouble, are you, Maiden?”
My fingers closed around the smooth, cool handle of the dagger. I shook my head no.

Penellaphe, aka Poppy, is my favorite heroine! She was chosen by the Gods to be the Maiden. She spent her life being veiled and protected at all costs. She wasn’t allowed to socialize, besides with her maid Tawny, who I loved! And she wasn’t to be spoken to or even touched. Her life felt so lonely at times. But underneath what everyone else saw, was a girl who could easily hold her own. Poppy was fierce, brave, a fighter, and extremely brave! And I loved listening to her thoughts. She was so easy to click with and feel her emotions, especially when it came to Hawke!

“You’re an absolutely stunning, murderous little creature.”

I have betrayed all of my other book boyfriends because of Hawke Flynn. He felt like a mix between Aiden and Roth, yet he was even sexier and more forward. So Hawke was honor, respect, completely addictive and absolutely beautiful. Of course I was obsessed with him. Hawke was a guard and his interactions with Poppy had me smiling, sighing and laughing out loud. I loved that he could be seductive and sexy, and then in the next moment he was protective and thoughtful. Plus he had this ability to be sarcastic and also put people in their place, it made me love him that much harder. I didn’t care that I knew so very little about him, all I cared about is how he made me feel.

I couldn’t help but shiver when his eyes finally met mine.
“You’re so damn beautiful,” he whispered, his voice thick. “And so damn unexpected.”

When Poppy and Hawke were around each other, their antics and sexual tension had me over the moon happy. They messed with each other, and I loved how Hawke called her Princess. But neither could deny that there was a strong attraction between them. It almost felt like it was something more, especially since the friendship was so easy between them. But as the story progressed, moments between them were erotic and scorching hot! Their chemistry was steamy, even when they didn’t have the easiest path.

I knew what the consequences could be. I knew what I was, and what was expected of me, and I knew I could no longer be that. It wasn’t what I wanted in life. It had never been my choice.
But this…this I wanted.
Hawke was who I wanted.
This was my choice.

As the story unfolded, we got to see how layered it truly was. There were twists and turns. And while I saw some coming, others completely shocked me to my core. And that didn’t even include the deaths. Some I cheered at the top of my lungs for and others my sobs were inconsolable. I stared in shock at the pages, never once thinking that things would play out how they did. It felt like it twisted in the wrong way. But just wait, because by the end of From Blood and Ash I was screaming with happiness. I loved how things ended up and it made so much sense for how the story played out. So hold on, because it was an extremely emotional road and I loved every single tear, smile and sigh it pulled from me. This story was truly brilliant!

“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.”

From Blood and Ash is my favorite Jennifer L. Armentrout book! I loved how there was lightness and darkness mixed together in this story. I loved how I would go from laughing and sighing to crying my eyes out. I loved every single moment in this book, even the ones that gutted me. I can’t recommend this book enough!

My other favorite quotes:

Hawke’s gaze remained fastened on mine as he stepped forward. “Both halves are as beautiful as the whole.”
My lips parted on a sharp inhale. I couldn’t even look to see what the Duke’s reaction was, though I was sure it was nothing short of cataclysmic.
Hawke sensed my move and shifted, blocking my knee with his thigh. “You’re so incredibly violent.” He paused. “I think I like it.”
“Let me go!” I seethed.
“And be kicked or stabbed?” He shoved his leg between mine, preventing any future kicks. “We’ve already covered that, Princess. More than once.”
“I will kill them,” he whispered. “I will fucking kill them all.”
I didn’t think he was talking about the old scars.
Then I wasn’t thinking at all.
“Promise me,” he said, seeming to not hear me as he lifted his head. His gaze snagged with mine. “Promise me you won’t forget this, Poppy. That no matter what happens tomorrow, the next day, next week, you won’t forget this—forget that this was real.”
I couldn’t look away. “I promise. I won’t forget.”
He lifted his chin, kissing my forehead. He leaned back, sliding his thumb along my jaw. “You deserve so much more than what awaits you.”

*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

BOOK REVIEW: Glass Houses (The Morganville Vampires #1) by Rachel Caine

BOOK REVIEW: Glass Houses (The Morganville Vampires #1) by Rachel CaineGlass Houses (The Morganville Vampires #1)
by Rachel Caine
Purchase on: AmazoniBooks
Add to: Goodreads

Synopsis:

From the author of the popular Weather Warden series comes the debut of an exciting new series set in Morganville, Texas, where you would be well advised to avoid being out after dark.

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation. When Claire heads off-campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life, but they'll have Claire's back when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood. Will she be able to face the town's terror or will she drown like everyone else?

 

So. I’ve always been a lovey dovey vampire lover as opposed to the GRR, I’M AN EVIL BASTARD kind. But, as it turns out….I fell really hard for this book. And, instead of sexy bites shared between vampire lovers (or, rather, a human AND vamp), we had the scary as shit psycho vampires. Honestly, I was disappointed at first. I mean, really. Who doesn’t like a little neck biting action? WHO I ASK, WHO?! But as the story progressed, it gave me something….a little more.

 

 

-and Dad, who was glowering at Shane in the background, was as tall and twice as broad. “Is it him?” Dad asked. “Did he get you into trouble?”
“Not me,” Shane said. “I’ve just got that kind of face.”

I won’t say it wouldn’t be a cool future twist (I’m looking at you, book two *wink*), but, for now, I’m satisfied. Why am I satisfied, you ask? Well, I’ll tell you. Instead of sexy neck play between two lovahs, we have a million other things: Mean girls who are actually VERY mean, evil vampires that cause a lot of heroic romantic suspense, not one, but TWO sexy boys, and a cast of four characters that live in a house together, doing everything they can to protect one another. Oh, and there’s an EPIC twist somewhere in this story-I like. I approve.

For me to love books that are….well….paranormal, the author better be hella creative. In this case?? She was. And I even thought it was a BIT more addictive than my other vamp series I’m reading…but only by a hair! To me, that’s amazing. I LOVE Evernight-I love the atmosphere, the boy, the main girl (most of the time), but sometimes it’s a bit lighter and not as intense in the writing area. I love that, but starting this series certainly made my heart pound in ways that are completely out of this world.

This book was creepy as shit, but it doesn’t really kick up the scary SCARINESS until book two. Oh yeah, I’m running through these vamp series like candy, so, yeah, I’m extremely behind on reviews FYI. These poor books aren’t getting NEAR the reviews they deserve, I realize. But, I digress, my point is this: These books are a lot more adult. They aren’t really……mature, per se, but they do border that fine line where you’re like, shit, are they really going to burn this guy alive? And are they honestly going to kill off one of my favorite characters brutally? I really can’t say….and I kind of dig it.

Now, okay, I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t defend my darling males. You’ve got Shane and Michael. Michael is who everyone seems to like. I guess I did, too? But that’s only because I let reviews influence me. From the very beginning it’s clear that Shane is totally into Claire and he is going to be uber protective of her. I love this. So, in essence, I LOVE Shane. He is nothing but sweet and kind and funny from the very beginning-And when things get serious, so does he. So…what’s not to like? I swear, people lol. Who cares!!! But. Anyway. Moving on. Michael is great, too, but….I don’t see the large hype for him??? Other than loving him as a main character-I do, too. I guess I’m just still trying to figure that one out. Not trying to dwell on it.

She didn’t look up.
He came a step closer, and his bare feet and sweatpants came into her vision. “Claire. You’ve got to promise me.”
“I can’t,” she said. “I’m not some little kid. And I’m not your sister.”
He laughed, low in his throat. “Oh, yeah. That, I know. But I don’t want to see you get hurt again.”

OH OH OH!!!! And, okay, I must say-these might be some of my favorite kissing scenes EVER. Or, at least, in a long long time. I just am extremely enamored with how she writes the exchanges-sexy, sweet, swoony, and then there’s how she explains the body? I don’t know…I just was very attracted to the way she described something as beautifully simple as kissing. It’s like authors forget how to, you know?? I have very high hopes for, ahem, future endeavors hehe.

God this review is so weird. I’m sorry guys-I’m sitting at work and going back and forth between work and writing this sad excuse for a review, so that’s likely it. I’d rather post something rather than nothing at all so, well….here you go. All I can really say is I adore this series very much and I am EXTREMELY excited to see what’s next for my darling Claire and Shane-I love Eve and Michael, too, but babies first!!! I think a lot of people are missing out on this-Yes, it’s silly. Yes, they get into some crazy situations….but it never once felt cheesy. So. Um. SCORE. That is all.

**************

Shockingly..I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! I’ve been waiting FOREVER to try and I am so glad I waited until my comeback (from being sick) for my month of vampires….Though, these vamps are pretty mean lol And I ADORE Shane. EEPS.

RTC!!

View all my reviews

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