If you’re anything like me, your TBR pile is less of a stack and more of a structural hazard. Nevertheless, picking From Blood and Ash out of my stack, knowing I’m committing to a massive series, felt like the perfect excuse to ignore my responsibilities and sink my teeth into a months long passion project. Here’s to enjoying a marathon, and not a sprint!
***Please note this review contains minor spoilers***
Quality of Writing
Rating: 4/5
While the writing feels polished and the chemistry between Poppy and Hawke is electric, the world-building feels a touch “copy-paste”. The names for places and creatures throughout From Blood and Ash lack the same spark of originality found in so many other series. I mean come on Jennifer, Atlantia? Masadonia? I know you can do better than that!
Plot Development
Rating: 4/5
From Blood and Ash has some relentless pacing, and I’m a total sucker for themes like religious oppression and female rage. That said, there are a few head scratching plot holes – like the electricity that’s mentioned a single time at the beginning, then seemingly vanishes into the void. Overall, the plot is a fast and addictive ride, even if a few breadcrumbs got dropped on the wrong path along the way.
Characters
Rating: 5/5
If you’re looking for a new book boyfriend, let me introduce you to Hawke – a top tier MMC who gives off major Cassian energy. Think charming, dangerous, and utterly devoted. On the other end, Poppy holds her own with a blend of vulnerability, a dash of naivety, and a “don’t mess with me” vibe. From Blood and Ash also has a great ensemble of side characters that feel hashed out, with my favorites being sweet and simple Tawny, and daddy Vikter. Whether it’s characters you love to hate or hate to love, this book and it’s characters have the perfect balance of emotional weight.
Ease of Reading
Rating: 4/5
If you’re looking for an effortless binge, this is it. The writing style of From Blood and Ash is accessible and keeps the momentum going at a good clip. However, if you’re a lore junkie, you might find the world building a bit lackluster. I remain hopeful that the world building will pick up throughout the rest of the series, because this book is otherwise perfect for those who want to focus on the plot and romance without needing a term glossary or footnotes.
Ending
Rating: 3/5
The finale of From Blood and Ash threw me for a major loop, but not necessarily for the right reasons. It felt a bit like “baby’s first big fight” – a conflict that could’ve been solved with an honest conversation and some reassurance. Instead, we got a cliffhanger fueled by petty stubbornness and a complete lack of communication. Fingers crossed that the subsequent books will bring some much needed emotional maturity to the table.
Would I Recommend This Book
Yes. From Blood and Ash isn’t perfect, but it is incredibly fun. I’m willing to overlook the plot holes and shoddy communication skills and can appreciate the magnetic character dynamics. It’s a high stakes, high heat marathon that makes me want more. If you loved ACOTAR or Fourth Wing, this belongs on your shelf.
Overall Rating
From Blood and Ash is a high stakes romantasy that has a strong plot and electric character dynamics. Although the world building does leave something to be desired, and the finale is a touch frustrating. This book is an easy binge and maintains its seat at the “Romantasy Classics” table for good reason.
Book Rating: 4/5 (TW: Physical Assault, S*xual Harassment, Blood, Gore, De*th, Child De*th (mentioned), Torture)
Spice Rating: 2.5/5
Curious about how I rate my reads? Check out my Rating System Blog Post for more!
Let’s Talk
Do you enjoy lore and world building at the beginning, or do you prefer to get straight to the plot and pick up lore along the way?
Reading Stack
Previous Book: Dance of The Phoenix/Bewitched
Current Book: The Coven/Shadow’s Edge
Next Book: Sight Unseen
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