Captivating and action-packed, From Blood and Ash is a sexy, addictive, and unexpected fantasy perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas and Laura Thalassa.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.
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I was dead set on not starting this series no matter how many times people that I was crazy for waiting. Eventually the ayes had it and I gave in, I was seeing Jen’s book everywhere and Hawke had me intrigued. I’ve been of JLA’s books since the Covenant series and Aiden is my #1. Even after reading this one, Aiden still holds the spot, but Hawke is easily the second … or perhaps I’ll create a new category when it comes to Jen’s heroes and put him as #1?
If you’ve been a fan of Jen’s from her earlier stages, you can definitely see how much growth there has been with her stories and writing, after reading From Blood and Ash. I’m 100% obsessed with this world that she has created and after getting through the last hundred or so pages of the book, I have soooooooooooooo many questions. Because it sure did pick up immensely towards the end.
OK, if you’ve read my previous JLA reviews before, you know that I’ve loved about every single one of her heroines. They’re amazing and badass in their own way. And Poppy just might be the most BA of them all. But my goodness, I do not envy the path that was laid out for her since she was a childhood. I wanted nothing more than for her to be free from her cage. Not going to lie, there were quite a few moments where I expected her to stand up for herself, but she held it back. And that was really tough for me to swallow. She has some rage that you don’t want to be on the opposite end of because she will not hold back. She bottles up everything and I totally understand why as much as it killed me to see it happening. You can’t always help the circumstances you were born into, you get told things more than enough times, and you will believe them. Can you blame her?
Even with this being book 1, you still see some growth with her character and I cannot wait to see what she’ll do in A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire. Those last hundred of pages are no joke, not going to lie, my heart broke REPEATEDLY for her and I have no idea whatsoever what’s to come.
Hawke Flynn … boy I was not ready for him at all. His presence is overwhelming in the best way possible. He’s like a mixture of all of Jen’s heroes combined into one. And I know sooooo many fell in love with him from the beginning, I sure did. As. of right now, I’m holding back my 100% devotion to him because … well, you’re just going to have to read to find out.
Poppy and Hawke have everything there when it comes to their connection and chemistry. But there’s a lot of secrets that will be a huge barrier for the both of them. We learn a little bit towards the end, but there’s so much more in the unknown.
It took me a little bit longer than normal to finish this book, it’s rather long. And one thing about some fantasy romance reads that intimidate me is the world-building. Sometimes it can be a bit too much for me and I end up getting lost. For most of the book, the pacing was slow, but you’re learning a lot during that time. Then things REAALLLLLY pick up towards the end and that’s what kicked up the rating a bit for me.
Jen has woven us a rather addicting tale with characters you will be rooting for. I have quite a few theories, so I can’t wait to see which way everything will play out.
Jennifer L. Armentrout
This books was exactly what I needed right now and everything I didn’t know I wanted.
It was filled with intrigue, mystery, deception and lies. There are maidens and “prophecies”. There are shape shifters and the undead. The female lead is sassy and badass. The male lead is handsome, dark, and oh so mysterious. And let’s not forget the unforgettable ANGST!!.
Poppy and Hawks story took me by storm and I could not put them down. Even days after finishing, I am still thinking about them.
Honestly, this story had everything I love and the writing was absolutely impeccable.
I cannot wait to get my hands on book two, A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire!!
READ. THIS. BOOK.
This is my first book by this author and I can guarantee you that I will be stalking her back catalogue ASAP!!
I gave into the hype after seeing some fanart and I couldn’t put this book off any longer!
It has been one of the best books I’ve read this year. The romance was a gut wrenchingly slow, but satisfying burn and the foreshadowing and constant foreboding feeling throughout the book made me hyper alert for all the shit to hit the fan.
There was an exceptionally triggering line for me in this book – but it served its purpose in the storyline.
One of the things I loved about this book was Poppy. OK, she may have been sheltered and a little naive, but she doesn’t let that stop her from trying to get what she wants. The frustrating thing for me was that for someone as inquisitive as her – it sure felt like she knew a whole lot of nothing. She has been sequestered away – breaks the rules but rarely questioned them? This usually drives me insane with an MC, but Poppy has a charm and such a fierce attitude that I can forgive these little slights.
*Minor spoiler* – I lived for her Michone from the walking dead moment.
I also seem to have the ability to read a few lines about a character and end up being complete trash for them – with no solid reason, other than the fact that they are a tall dark stranger with a cheeky side. Enter Hawke and that statement is as true as ever.
The chemistry between Hawke and Poppy was thrilling. The camp scene left me a little flustered and even though I had already started to suss things out, I was anxious for everything to develop so they could JUST DO IT.
The revelations didn’t exactly come as a shock, but it was fun and excruciatingly frustrating waiting for Poppy to catch up on paper.
The conclusion was so satisfying I feel like I can just about manage the week it will take for me to get my hands on Kingdom of Flesh and Fire.
From blood and ash is the first book in the serie and the first one from Jennifer L. Armstrout that I was reading. I’m not disapointed. Love the world and the characters of this book.
We follow Penellaphe, Poppy, She’s the Maiden, chosen from birth , and have no control at all on her life. Can’t be touched by no one. Can’t be see, she need to wear a veil everytime she goes out. Can’t talk to anyone except a few exception like her guards. And can’t have no pleasure. She’s waiting for her Ascension but Poppy would prefer be with her guard to fight the evil that took the live of her family years ago.
I’m looking foward to the sequel of this book.
“Death is like an old friend who pays a visit, sometimes when it’s least expected and other times when you’re waiting for her.”
It took me a while to get into this book. There was an overflow of information in the beginning and too many hints making the plot pretty predictable. Another little thing that bothered me was some of the names of the cities in this Fantasy world were name after popular real and unreal cities just spelled a little differently. However, I can overlook this and once the book got its hooks in me I really enjoyed it. I truly liked the new spin on certain mythical creatures. I loved the main characters. Hawke was infuriating and arrogant but charming, thoughtful and protective. Poppy was sheltered but brave, caring and frankly badass. Both are a little dangerous and their chemistry can’t be denied. The last 30% is where this book really shines and I’m excited to see what is to come in the second one.
“…this felt too right for it not to be, in some way, destined.”
Ahhhhhhhh Gimme the next book! Now I know what everyone was talking about! I put it off so I could take my time and read it up until the next book was released but ended up reading the whole thing in less than 24 hours. SO GOOD. I love Poppy but the real winner here is Hawke. At first I wasn’t keen on him, I’m not going to lie. I got a little stabby with him, but as it continued I felt so much for these two. This book was way darker than I was used to out of JLA and I loved it. I’m a sucker for blood, not sure what that says about me; but let’s go with it. I have been in such a slump and this book I devoured. I’m sure it will set me back and the slump I will feel after this one will be worse, but totally worth it. This book is why JLA is one of my top authors, the writing and story are so good and twisty. Loved it and cannot wait for book 2!
To be honest this book blew my mind….
I had a feeling I knew it from the beginning who H was but the end is mind-blowing I’m excited to read the next book in the series
Wow! This book was hands-down, amazing! It was everything I didn’t know I needed. A strong heroine to match an equally strong hero.
Poppy (Penellaphe) is the chosen maiden. She is held in a prison of sorts. As the chosen maiden she is mostly left in solitude; never to be touched, gazed upon or spoken too. She years for a little slice of normal before she is sent onto the next phase – Ascension.
Hawke Flynn is a new guard sworn to protect Poppy at all costs. With Hawke, Poppy feels like she can be just a bit more normal. Hawke is swoon worthy, and protective. But he also gets Poppy to think outside of her box.
Their chemistry is electric and the story line is one you can’t get enough of. You will definitely want to one-click this one!
This is my first read for Jennifer. I love this book! I will be looking for the next in this series! You must read!
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. The characters were amazing, the story will hold your attention until the end. Hawke & Poppy are absolutely perfect for each other. This story had everything, lust, love, lies and betrayal. An astonishing read that I didn’t want too end. All I got too say is that I need the next book ASAP.
It comes as no surprise to those know me that I love Jennifer L. Armentrout and everything I have so far read by her. That lady has some incredible writing talent, and damn if she didn’t show all she’s got in From Blood and Ash.
From Blood and Ash is very different from what she normally writes and I mean that in a very good way. It is highly original with interesting spin on vampires. It is full of unexpected twists and turns that will leave you wondering what is going on. As the book progresses, you have the feeling that something is not quite right, but you can’t exactly put your finger on what that could be. I had multiple theories throughout the book with some of them panning out, while others did not. This book is not at all what you’d expect and you should not make the mistake to take it at face value. Nothing is as it seems.
Penellaphe, also known as Poppy to friends and family, has fast become one of my favourite female characters. She is strong, brave, stubborn, loyal and compassionate, just to name a few. She has been dealt a really shitty hand, but she continues to held her head high and doesn’t let anything bring her down. She has known loss and pain, but she didn’t let her experiences make her bitter. She always lends a hand where she can. I loved seeing her rebel against the life that she hasn’t chosen, that was forced upon her. The life of a maiden is truly sad and lonely one and I cannot imagine being as restricted and isolated as Poppy has been. Things that are expected of her require her not to live her life to the fullest but through some small and some big acts of rebellion she has taken the reins of her own life.
I can understand why people see Hunter, Roth and Aiden in Hawke. He is that and more. So much more. He is such a complex character. When you think you have him figured out, you cannot be further from the truth. He did some questionable things that made me want to throw a dagger at his face but that did not stop him from becoming one of my favourite heroes. I love how he treats Poppy, he does not treat her as maiden, but rather like a woman with her own dreams and aspirations. He is the only person to treat her that way and that what makes him so special and different from other people in Poppy’s life.
I loved how Poppy and Hawke’s relationship progressed. I didn’t find like it progressed too slow, nor too fast. The pacing was just right. I loved how they treated each other, how they weren’t shy around each other and how they teased the other mercilessly. I laughed so hard, especially when Hawke got his hands on this one particular journal and decided to read from it. Oh god, that was the best! For that alone this book is worth the read! I loved how Hawke gets turned on when Poppy turns violent towards him, and man is she scary when she gets violent. It is truly magnificent! And how he supports Poppy in her extracurricular activities rather than forbidding her from doing them. That really goes to show what kind of man he is. And above all, I love his incredibly dirty, deliciously naughty mouth. I swear, this man takes dirty talk to a whole different level.
I stayed up until ungodly hour to finish this book because I had to know how it ends. I regret nothing! Even long after I finished the book I could not force myself to sleep because my mind was racing, wondering what will possibly happen in the second book. This is the power that the book has over you. It grips you to the point where nothing else will matter to you besides this book. It leaves you breathless, panting for more. Book two cannot come soon enough!!
A M A Z I N G
“FROM BLOOD AND ASH, WE WILL RISE!”
Holy cow! I don’t even know where to start. From Blood and Ash is a fantastic fantasy novel!
Jennifer has written a master piece here.
I couldn’t put it down! My mind is blowing out right now. This baby of more than 600 pages intrigued me from the beginning.
GO AND READ IT RIGHT NOW! YOU WON’T REGRET IT!
Talking a little bit about the main characters, Poppy is a totally badass and I love her! “She is no damsel in distress”
She has a lot of weight on her shoulders, the future of a Kingdom, and while she waits for the time of her Ascension a lot of things happen.
Expect the unexpected, They say!
Hawke… Holy cookies with chocolate chips!!!! I feel like I need to re read The Covenant Series to remind me that Aiden is my #1, but WOW, just W O W! When you think JLA can’t create someone more perfect than what she already had done… BOOM Hawke enters into the panorama and Jeezzzzz!
I can’t wait for the next book! I really hope it won’t take long.
Another book you didn’t know that you weren’t prepared for but you absolutely needed in your life. JLA SLAYED Y’ALL.
This book literally got me in its grasp and didn’t let go once I started. I got it as a surprise mailing and dove right in.
The world boiling in this novel is next level. You cannot stop being amazed once you dive into this world. IT wraps itself around you and you completely get lost in its perfect descriptions and captivating characters.
I loved Poppy! Her plot line was epic and so unique that you literally love to discover each new thing about her and it.
Hawke though, lord I was not prepared to adore him s much as I do. I loved the tumulus relationship between those two and the chemistry was THERE y’all. I loved the swoon and I loved the adventure. I cannot wait for the next book. This one officially has me hooked.
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This book was soooo good. It totally blew my mind and I can’t wait to read more books in this series!!
Wow! So I ended up loving this book. I admit that the first third was tough for me to get into and I almost put the book down. But I kept going because I wanted to see how Hawk and Poppy would interact when he finally showed back up.
And I’m so glad I kept going. Their banter is awesome, and I loved the whole guard and maiden setup. The twists were surprising and I didn’t see everything coming, though I did have some suspicions! I actually really liked the ending and where we ended with these characters, though it is a cliffhanger leading into book two.
I can’t wait to read the second book. Hopefully it comes out soon because I need more Hawk and Poppy!
From Blood and Ash starts off as a slow burner while the world building and fantastic character development is happening but by the end of the book it can assure you, you will be thoroughly scorched and unable to think of anything else for days.
Book hangover anyone?
*I received an ARC for an honest review*
From Blood and Ash is the first high fantasy novel by Jennifer L Armentrout and she absolutely nails it. This is fantasy for skeptics and unbelievers because it makes you want to be a fantasy fan! This page turner makes you want to devour it in one night and at the same time savor every detail. Heart stopping and inspiring and grips you from page one.
Going into this novel I wasnt sure what to expect. Not being a fantasy genre fan made me nervous about how I would enjoy it or if I’d get lost. Immediately, I loved Poppy. She has lived a life I never would or could imagine but I could FEEL what she was feeling and felt like I was right there with her. Viktor was such an amazing supporting character and I loved the role he played in Poppy’s life. Hawke, woah boy, Hawke. He was everything I was hoping for a more. Watch out book boyfriends, he’s coming for the number one spot in our hearts.
The pacing of how we got information and learned about the world didn’t overwhelm me and flowed nicely to not information dump on you all at once. The world created here is amazing and I can’t wait to read more!!!
Fair warning: if you are a binge reader like I am you will want to wait until more books are released before you start. Seriously.
I’ve read a LOT of JLA’s young adult paranormal romance series. I have adored them all. This one is definitely new adult. This is definitely fantasy and paranormal. I did see some of what was going to happen, but it’s supposed to be like that. We’re reading from Poppy’s POV and she’s very caged her entire life and doesn’t have any knowledge outside what has been taught.
I really can’t say much without spoilers, so I will say that I am going to snatch up book 2 as soon as it is released. This book was epic!
This book was so amazing!! I still have a book hangover and I can’t wait until the next book!