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Araceli’s Blade #1
Daughter of Shadows and Ash
When her loved ones are brutally slain, Alora vows to hunt down the men responsible. Through her journey of grief and revenge, she becomes an assassin. Unintentionally becoming a symbol of hope for the people of the war-torn land.
Fate had other paths for her to take.
After spending a passionate night with a handsome stranger, she finds herself face to face with him once again in the throne room of the Sunnevean King. After completing the king's assessment, she's betrothed to the hateful prince, her fated mate who she hasn't seen since their last and only night spent together.
As dark forces gather threatening to tear two kingdoms apart, Alora must to cling to her vow of vengeance and lose herself to the shadows, or embrace the light of love and risk everything for a future she never dared to imagine.
Daughter of Shadows and Ash is a fast-paced, single POV book written in first person.
Themes/
Revenge/VengeanceMorally Grey FMCFated MatesAssassinHe Falls FirstFound Family
Fate had other paths for her to take.
After spending a passionate night with a handsome stranger, she finds herself face to face with him once again in the throne room of the Sunnevean King. After completing the king's assessment, she's betrothed to the hateful prince, her fated mate who she hasn't seen since their last and only night spent together.
As dark forces gather threatening to tear two kingdoms apart, Alora must to cling to her vow of vengeance and lose herself to the shadows, or embrace the light of love and risk everything for a future she never dared to imagine.
Daughter of Shadows and Ash is a fast-paced, single POV book written in first person.
Themes/
Revenge/VengeanceMorally Grey FMCFated MatesAssassinHe Falls FirstFound Family
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2024
122 people are currently reading
567 people want to read
About the author
Ember Johnson
5 books28 followersEmber Johnson writes tales steeped in starlight and shadows. Her books will take you to new realms filled with whimsical settings, strong heroines, wicked banter, and book boyfriends that bite.
You’ll often find her curled up on her couch with a hot cup of tea writing an unhinged plotline for the lore or reading her new favorite fantasy romance. There’s an 80% chance it’s a reverse harem/why choose, fantasy romance in a dark academic setting.
Ember cohabitates with her husband who has still to this day not finished reading her debut. His qualm is that she “killed him” as his favorite character died. Unfortunately, no characters are safe in any series. Together they survive the daily chaotic antics of their two children, dog, and cat.
You’ll often find her curled up on her couch with a hot cup of tea writing an unhinged plotline for the lore or reading her new favorite fantasy romance. There’s an 80% chance it’s a reverse harem/why choose, fantasy romance in a dark academic setting.
Ember cohabitates with her husband who has still to this day not finished reading her debut. His qualm is that she “killed him” as his favorite character died. Unfortunately, no characters are safe in any series. Together they survive the daily chaotic antics of their two children, dog, and cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 3, 2025
3 Stars for me!
I would like to thank NetGalley and the author for allowing me the privilege to have ARC access an allowing me the privilege to give my honest and open review of this book!
Wow this book was such a fun read and a great way to start off the new year. I really loved how sweet our FMC was and the true character development and challenges throughout the book! I felt as though the world building was truly immersive and I could picture and thoroughly live through what the character was experiencing. The relationship between characters as well as their interactions and commentary. There were many moments throughout the series that were highlighted as thy represented such a raw and real moment of truth and experience that allowed you to connect and relate to the characters.
I will say the story felt as though we would be taking one step forward just to go two steps back in certain points throughout the story. I also wish we got more within the story as certain moments felt rushed. I wish there was more story telling during these pivotal moments within the FMC's story. Some of the story was predictable but again I think it was just because it was rushed and more tellings during these moments really could have amped the story. Not to mention the ending just felt predicable as many common themes lay within the story. I can truly see where the comparison to Throne of Glass comes from, but you can feel much of Maas's themes from throughout her different book series within this one.
The FMC was a truly fun character but there were moments that gave me pick me energy that kind of threw off my relationship with the character and made interactions harder to connect with. I wish we had more insight into her adventures and what she experienced throughout the story. Not to mention the time umps made me feel like I lost out on truly understanding what our FMC wen through and made her into who was she was representing within the segment of the story. Her humor and drive to power through hardships was truly a great adventure and I cannot wait to see more with her character and where she goes with her powers and overall growth.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the author for allowing me the privilege to have ARC access an allowing me the privilege to give my honest and open review of this book!
Wow this book was such a fun read and a great way to start off the new year. I really loved how sweet our FMC was and the true character development and challenges throughout the book! I felt as though the world building was truly immersive and I could picture and thoroughly live through what the character was experiencing. The relationship between characters as well as their interactions and commentary. There were many moments throughout the series that were highlighted as thy represented such a raw and real moment of truth and experience that allowed you to connect and relate to the characters.
I will say the story felt as though we would be taking one step forward just to go two steps back in certain points throughout the story. I also wish we got more within the story as certain moments felt rushed. I wish there was more story telling during these pivotal moments within the FMC's story. Some of the story was predictable but again I think it was just because it was rushed and more tellings during these moments really could have amped the story. Not to mention the ending just felt predicable as many common themes lay within the story. I can truly see where the comparison to Throne of Glass comes from, but you can feel much of Maas's themes from throughout her different book series within this one.
The FMC was a truly fun character but there were moments that gave me pick me energy that kind of threw off my relationship with the character and made interactions harder to connect with. I wish we had more insight into her adventures and what she experienced throughout the story. Not to mention the time umps made me feel like I lost out on truly understanding what our FMC wen through and made her into who was she was representing within the segment of the story. Her humor and drive to power through hardships was truly a great adventure and I cannot wait to see more with her character and where she goes with her powers and overall growth.
March 8, 2025
If you were thinking about reading this book, DO IT. I am usually not a fan of fast paced, BUT this book has changed my mind. I loved Alora and her love of smutty books (same girl). I was so invested by the end of the book I was on the edge of my seat and almost yelling when it ended! What a cliffhanger. Can I get the next one already? Call me to read the ARC for Princess of Flames and Fate 😉
December 30, 2024
3.5✨
Thank you to NetGalley and Cursebreaker Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The overarching theme I get from this is a YA with adult characters and scenes. If you love YA but just want that little bit extra from it then you will absolutely love this book!
The imagery from the writing is truly immersive, like I really feel like I can see the world, but I'm not sure I need the woods described to me more than maybe twice, like I get it, and I feel like that really slows down this book. I loved the first few chapters as it gave me a minute to get into the world and the story but with limited worldbuilding and info dumps I don’t necessarily feel like I understood the world until much further along in the book.
You can really feel the Throne of Glass influence in this book, but Alora is Celaena's quite distant cousin that just so happens to be on the same vibes, this entire story has its own intricacies and details that are different from Throne of Glass, but the influence is strong. (and I do not hate that)
Once you actually get into the meat of this book at about 50ish% that’s when it starts getting really good, honestly before that is essentially a prelude to get you into the world, but the actual story is super enjoyable. As I said it very much has YA vibes in some of the character decisions and ways they act, and while that’s not my fave and I am not a huge fan of YA with adult characters, I didn’t feel alienated from the story.
I have a lot of questions left unanswered so I am absolutely going to be waiting for book 2 and if this is the base, I can only feel that book 2 will be even better.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cursebreaker Books for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The overarching theme I get from this is a YA with adult characters and scenes. If you love YA but just want that little bit extra from it then you will absolutely love this book!
The imagery from the writing is truly immersive, like I really feel like I can see the world, but I'm not sure I need the woods described to me more than maybe twice, like I get it, and I feel like that really slows down this book. I loved the first few chapters as it gave me a minute to get into the world and the story but with limited worldbuilding and info dumps I don’t necessarily feel like I understood the world until much further along in the book.
You can really feel the Throne of Glass influence in this book, but Alora is Celaena's quite distant cousin that just so happens to be on the same vibes, this entire story has its own intricacies and details that are different from Throne of Glass, but the influence is strong. (and I do not hate that)
Once you actually get into the meat of this book at about 50ish% that’s when it starts getting really good, honestly before that is essentially a prelude to get you into the world, but the actual story is super enjoyable. As I said it very much has YA vibes in some of the character decisions and ways they act, and while that’s not my fave and I am not a huge fan of YA with adult characters, I didn’t feel alienated from the story.
I have a lot of questions left unanswered so I am absolutely going to be waiting for book 2 and if this is the base, I can only feel that book 2 will be even better.
January 16, 2025
I grabbed Daughter of Shadows and Ash by Ember Johnson because the premise sounded interesting. Girl vows to hunt down the men who killed the people she loved and along the way she comes to realize who she is and what she is meant to do. While this may have been the intended story, it wasn't what I expected.
Alora is our fmc and she actually spends the first few chapters pining after her best friend but then it turns out he actually did have feelings for her and wanted to marry her all along but then tragedy strikes and Alora's life is turned upside down. The problem is, the story fast forwards and we don't actually see her going through any transformation. It's just a transition to now she is an assassin and I don't think that helps.
The pacing was a little slow in the beginning for me as well. To be honest, I could have done without most of the first part and just jumped right into the assassin portion of the story if Johnson could have figured out another way to share Alora's backstory.
When we meet the mmc Erynd (Ryn) things start to pick up as their one night stand leads into an unexpected betrothal. What Alora didn't know is that Ryn is not only the prince, but also her fated mate. Add to that, the fact that her magic has been what the King has been looking for and he isn't about to let her go.
With the way this book picked up at the end I'm actually interested in picking up the next book in the series. As I mentioned, I think that while the beginning of the book was slow and disconnected, the rest of the story kept me interested in and because of that it did end up being a solid read.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Alora is our fmc and she actually spends the first few chapters pining after her best friend but then it turns out he actually did have feelings for her and wanted to marry her all along but then tragedy strikes and Alora's life is turned upside down. The problem is, the story fast forwards and we don't actually see her going through any transformation. It's just a transition to now she is an assassin and I don't think that helps.
The pacing was a little slow in the beginning for me as well. To be honest, I could have done without most of the first part and just jumped right into the assassin portion of the story if Johnson could have figured out another way to share Alora's backstory.
When we meet the mmc Erynd (Ryn) things start to pick up as their one night stand leads into an unexpected betrothal. What Alora didn't know is that Ryn is not only the prince, but also her fated mate. Add to that, the fact that her magic has been what the King has been looking for and he isn't about to let her go.
With the way this book picked up at the end I'm actually interested in picking up the next book in the series. As I mentioned, I think that while the beginning of the book was slow and disconnected, the rest of the story kept me interested in and because of that it did end up being a solid read.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2025
Thank you so much to Netgalley for this eARC!
Daughter of Shadows and Ash was a book full of twists and turns! It kept me hooked through the very end and left me wanting more. Alora is a strong FMC that is fierce and ready to avenge her loved ones. I enjoyed the character dialogue and there were some spicy moments that were written well. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a dark fantasy romance for their TBR! Cannot wait for book 2!
Daughter of Shadows and Ash was a book full of twists and turns! It kept me hooked through the very end and left me wanting more. Alora is a strong FMC that is fierce and ready to avenge her loved ones. I enjoyed the character dialogue and there were some spicy moments that were written well. Highly recommend this to anyone looking for a dark fantasy romance for their TBR! Cannot wait for book 2!
January 9, 2025
This was sooo good!!
A book perfect for fans of Lady of Darkness and An heir comes to rise. Our FMC goes through so many struggles with grief, vengeance and hope.
This book includes betrayal, magic, romance, fated mates and feminine rage. I couldn’t put it down, I wish it was longer! Also, that ending OMG, bring on the next book.
A book perfect for fans of Lady of Darkness and An heir comes to rise. Our FMC goes through so many struggles with grief, vengeance and hope.
This book includes betrayal, magic, romance, fated mates and feminine rage. I couldn’t put it down, I wish it was longer! Also, that ending OMG, bring on the next book.
did-not-finish
September 24, 2025DNF @20% (51 pages)
The main character is giving toddler vibes. She’s 22 but acts like she’s never heard of stranger danger.
I just… can’t!
The main character is giving toddler vibes. She’s 22 but acts like she’s never heard of stranger danger.
I just… can’t!
January 9, 2025
Daughter of Shadows and Ash is a quick, fast-paced read with everything many fantasy fans love—strong female protagonists, assassins, a mate bond, shadow magic, and royals.
Alora, the main character, is a fierce assassin with shadow powers who is out for vengeance, making her journey both thrilling and emotional. As she navigates her world of magic and danger, the book introduces a mix of relationships, from best friends to enemies and even a romance that ties into the fated mate bond.
The book’s pacing is rapid, and it doesn’t waste time diving into the action. I loved the dynamic world of royals, assassins, and magic, all of which come together in a way that’s both exciting and intriguing.
The story takes unexpected turns, and the romance happens quickly
There’s a lot of action, power dynamics, and political intrigue mixed in with the romance, and I think fans of fantasy will really enjoy it.
It’s the first book in a why choose trilogy, so if you're into series that explore multiple love interests, this one is for you. The ending, of course, leaves you hanging with a cliffhanger that will make you want to pick up the next book right away.
Honest Thoughts:
It wasn't a bad read at all, and for people who like something quick, this is definitely for you.
I don’t mind fast-paced books, but I was a little thrown off by the direction of the story—first, the whole revenge and assassin thing, and then suddenly a one-night stand ends in a mate bond and arranged marriage?
If you like this, you’ll eat this book up, but I personally love development and don’t care for the “we’re strangers but if you say we’re mates, I guess we will be together now” vibe.
Still, it’s a quick read with fantasy elements that has something for everyone—a decent book, but don’t expect a mind-blowing new high fantasy.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Alora, the main character, is a fierce assassin with shadow powers who is out for vengeance, making her journey both thrilling and emotional. As she navigates her world of magic and danger, the book introduces a mix of relationships, from best friends to enemies and even a romance that ties into the fated mate bond.
The book’s pacing is rapid, and it doesn’t waste time diving into the action. I loved the dynamic world of royals, assassins, and magic, all of which come together in a way that’s both exciting and intriguing.
The story takes unexpected turns, and the romance happens quickly
There’s a lot of action, power dynamics, and political intrigue mixed in with the romance, and I think fans of fantasy will really enjoy it.
It’s the first book in a why choose trilogy, so if you're into series that explore multiple love interests, this one is for you. The ending, of course, leaves you hanging with a cliffhanger that will make you want to pick up the next book right away.
Honest Thoughts:
It wasn't a bad read at all, and for people who like something quick, this is definitely for you.
I don’t mind fast-paced books, but I was a little thrown off by the direction of the story—first, the whole revenge and assassin thing, and then suddenly a one-night stand ends in a mate bond and arranged marriage?
If you like this, you’ll eat this book up, but I personally love development and don’t care for the “we’re strangers but if you say we’re mates, I guess we will be together now” vibe.
Still, it’s a quick read with fantasy elements that has something for everyone—a decent book, but don’t expect a mind-blowing new high fantasy.
Thank you, Netgalley, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2025
*changing my rating because my concerns were addressed in book 2 I’m just impatient apparently*
I usually am not so harsh on my book ratings but this book had so much potential but so many things I noted while reading. If it wasn’t for the cliff hanger at the end, I likely wouldn’t have continued the series.
I really loved the plot, the characters and the world building but I felt a lot of things were rushed, leaving out key details. Almost like a movie that had a clip edit where the character was wearing a red hat in the same scene, but in the next cut back to the same scene, same character, they were wearing a blue one. While the background of our FMC, Lor, was detailed and helped us get to know her; we got nothing of her development in becoming an assassin, her training, her relationships with others. One second she’s just a girl with plan for vengeance and the next she’s part of a prophecy and bond that was never discussed prior to.
POSSIBLE BUT VERY MINOR SPOILERS INCOMING!!!
Not even in whisperings of her past life or love for books. In addition, there’s a few scenes where something happens, like her recon mission where she gets chased by her unknown dance partner and she gets bumped and dropped her knife, where there is no mention of her picking the knife up (wouldn’t she have been caught especially with someone hot on her tail??), nor of who this masked man is. We can speculate of course and I hope this comes full circle but I waited the entire book for something to close the loop and it didn’t.
All in all, I did enjoy it, but those are the things that keep me up at night lolol. I will continue the series because the end was just enough to leave me intrigued and those revolving questions I have, I hope will be answered in the subsequent books!
I usually am not so harsh on my book ratings but this book had so much potential but so many things I noted while reading. If it wasn’t for the cliff hanger at the end, I likely wouldn’t have continued the series.
I really loved the plot, the characters and the world building but I felt a lot of things were rushed, leaving out key details. Almost like a movie that had a clip edit where the character was wearing a red hat in the same scene, but in the next cut back to the same scene, same character, they were wearing a blue one. While the background of our FMC, Lor, was detailed and helped us get to know her; we got nothing of her development in becoming an assassin, her training, her relationships with others. One second she’s just a girl with plan for vengeance and the next she’s part of a prophecy and bond that was never discussed prior to.
POSSIBLE BUT VERY MINOR SPOILERS INCOMING!!!
Not even in whisperings of her past life or love for books. In addition, there’s a few scenes where something happens, like her recon mission where she gets chased by her unknown dance partner and she gets bumped and dropped her knife, where there is no mention of her picking the knife up (wouldn’t she have been caught especially with someone hot on her tail??), nor of who this masked man is. We can speculate of course and I hope this comes full circle but I waited the entire book for something to close the loop and it didn’t.
All in all, I did enjoy it, but those are the things that keep me up at night lolol. I will continue the series because the end was just enough to leave me intrigued and those revolving questions I have, I hope will be answered in the subsequent books!
December 31, 2024
Rating 3/5⭐️
Spice 2/5🌶️
Potential Spoilers!‼️‼️
I am really torn with this book. It started off so good. I thought the premise and world building were well done. It had a really strong start but after about 20% it just kind of tapered off.
There were a lot of plot holes. Especially with Aloha’s grandmother and how she is hearing Mael’s voice in her head after he dies.
I thought we would get more from her magic and more explanations regarding it but we didn’t.
A few things I found difficult to read was the repetitive use of words. “Familiar” was on the same page 3 times. It became very redundant even more so after her “mate” was introduced. Another thing I found to affect my rating was the fated mates. Now I love a good fated mate trope but it needs to be integrated well and flow with the story. This felt thrown in and very rushed. There was no tension, no build up, and very little interaction. It was hard to believe or connect too.
I also noticed that the writing seemed a little inconsistent. It seemed like it went from present to past tense but with no real flow which was a little disorientating.
Now while this was not the book for me it could be the book for you. Would do well with those dipping their feet into fantasy romance or YA readers.
Thank you the to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC!
Spice 2/5🌶️
Potential Spoilers!‼️‼️
I am really torn with this book. It started off so good. I thought the premise and world building were well done. It had a really strong start but after about 20% it just kind of tapered off.
There were a lot of plot holes. Especially with Aloha’s grandmother and how she is hearing Mael’s voice in her head after he dies.
I thought we would get more from her magic and more explanations regarding it but we didn’t.
A few things I found difficult to read was the repetitive use of words. “Familiar” was on the same page 3 times. It became very redundant even more so after her “mate” was introduced. Another thing I found to affect my rating was the fated mates. Now I love a good fated mate trope but it needs to be integrated well and flow with the story. This felt thrown in and very rushed. There was no tension, no build up, and very little interaction. It was hard to believe or connect too.
I also noticed that the writing seemed a little inconsistent. It seemed like it went from present to past tense but with no real flow which was a little disorientating.
Now while this was not the book for me it could be the book for you. Would do well with those dipping their feet into fantasy romance or YA readers.
Thank you the to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2025
3.5 Stars - Daughter of Shadows and Ash by Ember Johnson is an intriguing mix of vengeance, magic, and fated love. Alora’s transformation from a grief-stricken survivor to an assassin and unexpected symbol of hope immediately captivated me. The emotional depth in the beginning hooked me, and her passionate, fateful encounter with the mysterious stranger set the stage for an intriguing romance.
However, after the initial 20-30% of the book, the momentum slowed, and some aspects felt underdeveloped. There were repetitive phrases that occasionally pulled me out of the story, and I wanted more depth regarding Alora’s magic and her grandmother’s role, which I hope will be explored further in the sequel.
That said, I truly enjoyed Alora’s character—she’s strong and determined, making her journey compelling. The ending left me excited to see how her story will continue. If you enjoy fantasy romance with fated mates, assassins, and dark forces, Daughter of Shadows and Ash is worth picking up, and I’ll be reading the next installment to uncover more of Alora’s story.
However, after the initial 20-30% of the book, the momentum slowed, and some aspects felt underdeveloped. There were repetitive phrases that occasionally pulled me out of the story, and I wanted more depth regarding Alora’s magic and her grandmother’s role, which I hope will be explored further in the sequel.
That said, I truly enjoyed Alora’s character—she’s strong and determined, making her journey compelling. The ending left me excited to see how her story will continue. If you enjoy fantasy romance with fated mates, assassins, and dark forces, Daughter of Shadows and Ash is worth picking up, and I’ll be reading the next installment to uncover more of Alora’s story.
January 17, 2025
Happy release day to Daughter of Shadows and Ash! Overall, I would say this was a 3⭐️ for me. I really loved the concept of this book and I thought that the dialogue was really good, especially the love interests scenes with Alora.
I did spend a lot of the time feeling kinda lost. I feel like there was a lot of jumping forward in timelines and I didn’t know it had jumped forward until like halfway through the chapter.
I really did adore Lor as the FMC. It gives Throne of Glass vibes and Lor is also dark and twisty with the ability to manipulate shadows.
I really am hoping for some more world building and more foundation for things that are happening in the plot and maybe less big timeline jumps ✨
Thank you Cursebreaker Books, Ember Johnson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I did spend a lot of the time feeling kinda lost. I feel like there was a lot of jumping forward in timelines and I didn’t know it had jumped forward until like halfway through the chapter.
I really did adore Lor as the FMC. It gives Throne of Glass vibes and Lor is also dark and twisty with the ability to manipulate shadows.
I really am hoping for some more world building and more foundation for things that are happening in the plot and maybe less big timeline jumps ✨
Thank you Cursebreaker Books, Ember Johnson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 23, 2025
This intense, fast-paced fantasy had me hooked from the start. Alora, a morally grey assassin, embarks on a journey of vengeance after losing her loved ones. Unexpectedly, she finds herself betrothed to her fated mate, the Sunnevean prince she spent one passionate night with. The story is packed with action, romance, and political intrigue, creating a vivid and immersive world. I loved Alora’s strength and the emotional depth of her character, though the timeline jumps felt a bit rushed at times. With themes of revenge, love, and redemption, this book is perfect for fantasy romance fans. The cliffhanger ending left me eager for the next one.
January 5, 2025
3.5
I really wanted to give this book a higher rating, but the story just felt a little rushed.
In saying that, I did enjoy the story. You have a strong FMC who has a traumatic back story, who then becomes an assassin to avenge the death of her grandmother and fiance.
In this book, you have:
Found family
Fated mates
Betrayal
Magic
Fae and Humans
This book does end on a cliffhanger, and I will definitely be giving book two a go. I can't wait to see where Alora's story goes.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to arc read and review this book.
I really wanted to give this book a higher rating, but the story just felt a little rushed.
In saying that, I did enjoy the story. You have a strong FMC who has a traumatic back story, who then becomes an assassin to avenge the death of her grandmother and fiance.
In this book, you have:
Found family
Fated mates
Betrayal
Magic
Fae and Humans
This book does end on a cliffhanger, and I will definitely be giving book two a go. I can't wait to see where Alora's story goes.
Thank you to the author for giving me the opportunity to arc read and review this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2025
Alora is a strong morally grey FMC out for revenge after losing the people she loves. I will always love a character who is on a mission and knows how to fight!
As she becomes an assassin and a symbol of hope she ends up caught in the middle of political drama magic and a surprise betrothal to her fated mate the Sunnevean prince she spent one unforgettable night with.
There is just the right amount of spice woven in with the romance enough to raise the stakes without taking over the story. It hits that perfect balance of tension and heat.
Her assassin found family was one of my favorite parts of the book so wholesome in the middle of all the chaos. The romance is messy and emotional just the way I like it!
A lot happens in this story for how short it is but it never felt rushed. It’s full of action, emotion & twists. The ending left me on edge and I cannot wait for book 2!!!
As she becomes an assassin and a symbol of hope she ends up caught in the middle of political drama magic and a surprise betrothal to her fated mate the Sunnevean prince she spent one unforgettable night with.
There is just the right amount of spice woven in with the romance enough to raise the stakes without taking over the story. It hits that perfect balance of tension and heat.
Her assassin found family was one of my favorite parts of the book so wholesome in the middle of all the chaos. The romance is messy and emotional just the way I like it!
A lot happens in this story for how short it is but it never felt rushed. It’s full of action, emotion & twists. The ending left me on edge and I cannot wait for book 2!!!
August 22, 2025
If I’d taken a drink every time Lor’s “violet eyes” were mentioned, I’d be dead right now. Alcohol poisoning by chapter five for sure.
September 22, 2025
3.5 stars
There were some odd spots, such as how she had run into everybody before properly meeting them.
There were some odd spots, such as how she had run into everybody before properly meeting them.
January 6, 2026
this book was fine. it was overly fast paced for my liking and the writing style could use some refining. i had to flick back and forth a lot to work out where i was and who was talking - it could’ve just been me though!
the story was interesting, i liked the characters a lot. but i’m not sure that’s enough for me to continue with this series.
the story was interesting, i liked the characters a lot. but i’m not sure that’s enough for me to continue with this series.
January 4, 2025
Omg... the ride this book took me on!!! I can not wait for book 2!!
Okay, now that that's out of the way.. what can I say.. this book truly was such a good read. I didn't want to put it down and read it in 2 sittings. The crap that Lor goes through from the beginning to the end just makes her one badass FMC and one I can't wait to read more about.
Now the ending.. I have NO clue where this is going to lead, but I have hopes that it ends in a HEA with lots of crazy in between! Definitely would recommend this one!!
Okay, now that that's out of the way.. what can I say.. this book truly was such a good read. I didn't want to put it down and read it in 2 sittings. The crap that Lor goes through from the beginning to the end just makes her one badass FMC and one I can't wait to read more about.
Now the ending.. I have NO clue where this is going to lead, but I have hopes that it ends in a HEA with lots of crazy in between! Definitely would recommend this one!!
June 23, 2025
Thank you Netgalley, Cursebreaker Books, and of course Ember Johnson herself for providing me with an e-ARC to review! 🫶🏼
I’ll do 3.75-4 ⭐️ this was such a fun read!!! Overall I really liked the book and the story and I will absolutely be reading the second one.
I love the FMC. I can relate to her caring so much for those close to her, and being protective. And when she faces grief, she dives deep into the badass version of herself and becomes an assassin to seek vengeance. Are you kidding?!?
There were a couple/few jumps in the time which made the storyline feel a little gapped for me. I didn’t like the plot twist that happens pretty quickly in the story. I wished there would’ve been a little more build to those characters and relationships before anything happens. I felt as though I was starting to get attached just to be jumping to something else.
I also would’ve liked to have more back story on Alora’s powers/magic so I could see why she was so important to the kingdom and what happens in the end of the books events.
I WAAAASSSS kicking my feet + giggling at the relationship between Lor and Ryn. The things he said?! It was nearing an insta-love a little bit but there was yearn to it which I CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF. His nickname “love”….. pls 😭😭 swooning
Tid bits:
•loss / grief
•badass FMC
•found family
•fated mates
•fae & human
•magic
•betrayal
I’ll do 3.75-4 ⭐️ this was such a fun read!!! Overall I really liked the book and the story and I will absolutely be reading the second one.
I love the FMC. I can relate to her caring so much for those close to her, and being protective. And when she faces grief, she dives deep into the badass version of herself and becomes an assassin to seek vengeance. Are you kidding?!?
There were a couple/few jumps in the time which made the storyline feel a little gapped for me. I didn’t like the plot twist that happens pretty quickly in the story. I wished there would’ve been a little more build to those characters and relationships before anything happens. I felt as though I was starting to get attached just to be jumping to something else.
I also would’ve liked to have more back story on Alora’s powers/magic so I could see why she was so important to the kingdom and what happens in the end of the books events.
I WAAAASSSS kicking my feet + giggling at the relationship between Lor and Ryn. The things he said?! It was nearing an insta-love a little bit but there was yearn to it which I CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF. His nickname “love”….. pls 😭😭 swooning
Tid bits:
•loss / grief
•badass FMC
•found family
•fated mates
•fae & human
•magic
•betrayal
January 16, 2026
“Your heart can be your greatest weapon or your worst enemy.”
An easy five stars for me! Lor is a badass assassin that I can get behind. When her life and her future are literally burned to the ground, she runs head first into a life of vengeance.
But when she meets Oryn, she’s stuck between her thirst for revenge and her growing feelings for him. Speaking of the men in this book…someone bring me a fan, they are hot! I absolutely love the banter, the flirtation, and the 🌶️!
The world building is super immersive too and her writing style is lyrical while still being descriptive. I can’t wait for book 2! *grabby hands*
An easy five stars for me! Lor is a badass assassin that I can get behind. When her life and her future are literally burned to the ground, she runs head first into a life of vengeance.
But when she meets Oryn, she’s stuck between her thirst for revenge and her growing feelings for him. Speaking of the men in this book…someone bring me a fan, they are hot! I absolutely love the banter, the flirtation, and the 🌶️!
The world building is super immersive too and her writing style is lyrical while still being descriptive. I can’t wait for book 2! *grabby hands*
January 12, 2025
Huge thank you to NetGalley ,Ember Johnson and the publisher for providing this ARC! Let’s dive into the dark and enchanting world of Daughter of Shadow and Ash, where the line between hero and villain blurs and danger lurks in every shadow. This book delivered plenty of thrills, but it wasn’t without its bumps.
The story revolves around Kaelith, a young woman born of shadow magic who has spent her life hidden from the oppressive rule of the Sun King. Her journey begins when her home is destroyed, forcing her to confront her dark heritage and the mysterious prophecy linking her to the downfall of the Sun King. It’s a rich premise, and Johnson does a great job setting the stage with vivid imagery and a dark, haunting atmosphere.
What We Loved
One of the standout elements of Daughter of Shadow and Ash is its world-building. Johnson crafts a realm teetering on the brink of collapse, where light magic dominates and shadow magic is outlawed. The oppressive rule of the Sun King and the whispered legends of the Shadow Queen add layers of intrigue. The descriptions are lush, painting a vivid picture of both the radiant, gilded capital and the dark, crumbling ruins where Kaelith seeks answers.
The magic system is another win. Shadow magic isn’t just a tool; it’s an extension of Kaelith’s identity, with powers that feel dangerous and untamed. The scenes where Kaelith unleashes her shadow magic are some of the most gripping. The stakes feel real, especially during her confrontations with the Sun King’s enforcers.
The romance, though subtle, had its moments. Kaelith’s growing connection with Erynd, a rogue with secrets of his own, added a touch of vulnerability to her otherwise guarded character. Their banter and tension provided some relief from the heavier themes of betrayal and survival.
What Could Have Been Better
Now, let’s talk about the flaws. The pacing was uneven, particularly in the middle sections. After an explosive start, the story hit a lull where Kaelith seemed to wander aimlessly in search of answers. These sections felt repetitive, with Kaelith encountering various cryptic figures who dropped vague hints before disappearing into the shadows. By the third encounter, I was craving more action and less ambiguity.
Character development also left something to be desired. Kaelith’s internal struggle with her shadow magic was compelling, but her personality sometimes felt flat outside of her magical prowess. For instance, her dialogue in key moments leaned heavily on clichés like, “I will never bow to the light,” which, while dramatic, lacked depth. Similarly, Erynd’s backstory was intriguing but underexplored. His motivations could have used more fleshing out to make his character feel more dynamic.
One of the book’s biggest missteps was the underwhelming reveal of the prophecy. The buildup was immense, with characters whispering about Kaelith’s destiny throughout the book. However, when the prophecy was finally unveiled, it felt rushed and lacked the weight it deserved. A pivotal moment like this needed more tension and detail to truly hit home.
Another issue was the inconsistent tone. Some scenes aimed for dark and gritty but were undermined by overly flowery prose. For example, during a life-or-death battle, we get a paragraph describing the way light filtered through broken stained glass. While beautifully written, it broke the tension and pulled me out of the moment.
Favorite Moments
Despite its flaws, Daughter of Shadow and Ash had moments of brilliance. The final confrontation between Kaelith and the Sun King was explosive and emotionally charged. The way Kaelith embraced her shadow magic, using it to shatter his oppressive grip, was a satisfying culmination of her journey. Her declaration, “I am both shadow and ash, and I will burn your light to cinders,” gave me chills.
I also loved the scene where Kaelith first discovered the remnants of the Shadow Queen’s sanctuary. The eerie silence, the crumbling statues, and the faint hum of dormant magic were beautifully described, creating an atmosphere of both awe and foreboding.
Final Thoughts
I’m giving Daughter of Shadow and Ash a solid 3.75 out of 5 stars. It’s an ambitious story with compelling world-building, a unique magic system, and some memorable scenes. However, uneven pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a few missed opportunities kept it from reaching its full potential.
Would I read the sequel? Absolutely. Despite its flaws, the book laid a strong foundation for future installments, and I’m curious to see how Kaelith’s story unfolds.
This book is perfect for fans of dark fantasy, morally grey heroines, and anyone who enjoys a richly detailed world with a dash of forbidden magic. If you’re willing to overlook a few imperfections, Daughter of Shadow and Ash is a solid, engaging read that promises more excitement to come.
The story revolves around Kaelith, a young woman born of shadow magic who has spent her life hidden from the oppressive rule of the Sun King. Her journey begins when her home is destroyed, forcing her to confront her dark heritage and the mysterious prophecy linking her to the downfall of the Sun King. It’s a rich premise, and Johnson does a great job setting the stage with vivid imagery and a dark, haunting atmosphere.
What We Loved
One of the standout elements of Daughter of Shadow and Ash is its world-building. Johnson crafts a realm teetering on the brink of collapse, where light magic dominates and shadow magic is outlawed. The oppressive rule of the Sun King and the whispered legends of the Shadow Queen add layers of intrigue. The descriptions are lush, painting a vivid picture of both the radiant, gilded capital and the dark, crumbling ruins where Kaelith seeks answers.
The magic system is another win. Shadow magic isn’t just a tool; it’s an extension of Kaelith’s identity, with powers that feel dangerous and untamed. The scenes where Kaelith unleashes her shadow magic are some of the most gripping. The stakes feel real, especially during her confrontations with the Sun King’s enforcers.
The romance, though subtle, had its moments. Kaelith’s growing connection with Erynd, a rogue with secrets of his own, added a touch of vulnerability to her otherwise guarded character. Their banter and tension provided some relief from the heavier themes of betrayal and survival.
What Could Have Been Better
Now, let’s talk about the flaws. The pacing was uneven, particularly in the middle sections. After an explosive start, the story hit a lull where Kaelith seemed to wander aimlessly in search of answers. These sections felt repetitive, with Kaelith encountering various cryptic figures who dropped vague hints before disappearing into the shadows. By the third encounter, I was craving more action and less ambiguity.
Character development also left something to be desired. Kaelith’s internal struggle with her shadow magic was compelling, but her personality sometimes felt flat outside of her magical prowess. For instance, her dialogue in key moments leaned heavily on clichés like, “I will never bow to the light,” which, while dramatic, lacked depth. Similarly, Erynd’s backstory was intriguing but underexplored. His motivations could have used more fleshing out to make his character feel more dynamic.
One of the book’s biggest missteps was the underwhelming reveal of the prophecy. The buildup was immense, with characters whispering about Kaelith’s destiny throughout the book. However, when the prophecy was finally unveiled, it felt rushed and lacked the weight it deserved. A pivotal moment like this needed more tension and detail to truly hit home.
Another issue was the inconsistent tone. Some scenes aimed for dark and gritty but were undermined by overly flowery prose. For example, during a life-or-death battle, we get a paragraph describing the way light filtered through broken stained glass. While beautifully written, it broke the tension and pulled me out of the moment.
Favorite Moments
Despite its flaws, Daughter of Shadow and Ash had moments of brilliance. The final confrontation between Kaelith and the Sun King was explosive and emotionally charged. The way Kaelith embraced her shadow magic, using it to shatter his oppressive grip, was a satisfying culmination of her journey. Her declaration, “I am both shadow and ash, and I will burn your light to cinders,” gave me chills.
I also loved the scene where Kaelith first discovered the remnants of the Shadow Queen’s sanctuary. The eerie silence, the crumbling statues, and the faint hum of dormant magic were beautifully described, creating an atmosphere of both awe and foreboding.
Final Thoughts
I’m giving Daughter of Shadow and Ash a solid 3.75 out of 5 stars. It’s an ambitious story with compelling world-building, a unique magic system, and some memorable scenes. However, uneven pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a few missed opportunities kept it from reaching its full potential.
Would I read the sequel? Absolutely. Despite its flaws, the book laid a strong foundation for future installments, and I’m curious to see how Kaelith’s story unfolds.
This book is perfect for fans of dark fantasy, morally grey heroines, and anyone who enjoys a richly detailed world with a dash of forbidden magic. If you’re willing to overlook a few imperfections, Daughter of Shadow and Ash is a solid, engaging read that promises more excitement to come.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2025
Daughter of Shadows and Ash by Ember Johnson
4/4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this ARC copy
"I'm starting to think this bond is cursing you with lunacy."
"If it is, I'll live the rest of my life cursed under your entrhall. I can't help but be obsessed with you."
Um with quotes like that??? Swoon.
So to start, I started this last night and binged all the way through today! That should tell you it was a pretty decent read, also kind of a quick one.
I have a lot of positives to say about this and only one or two semi negative things so let's get into it.
The first thing I want to discuss is the writing is beautiful. This is eloquently written. It is rare that I find a book, especially an indie book, with such nice prose. The wording was very detailed and just honestly so beautiful. It is very elaborate and detailed. Sometimes that however felt like too much, and did bog the story down just a tad, but in all honesty I would rather read overly detailed and beautiful writing than half assed writing, so that's all fine by me.
I loved the characters. Alora is a great FMC, she seems strong willed and passionate, and I love a good character building/out for revenge/badass assassin type vibes. This felt all like it was inspired by "Throne of Glass" while still being its very own unique tale, and I love that.
The only two semi negative things I have to say is the pacing felt off. At times it felt crazy rushed, and it felt too much like the story was skipping along too fast. That alone is what kept it from being a 5 star read for me. However, I will give grace there as its just book one - so we will have to wait and see what the author has in store for us in the next two books.
The only other minor complaint I have is it felt like a really strong start, and a really strong end, but the middle felt a little muddled for me. Part of that was world building/character building, etc. but then that made the beginning and ending feel a little rushed.
Again though - it was good enough as it was that I'm not mad about it! I really enjoyed the story as I mentioned, and I ate this up. I'm actually quite sad it's over for now and I am eagerly awaiting the next two books! This one was a real fun romantasy read, and I would recommend it to fans of the genre. It gave me heavy TOG vibes, with some ACOTAR vibes, etc. and I think this is going to be a really fun trilogy.
I will be picking this up to add to my own personal library upon release, and I'll likely be re-reading it again soon, or atleast before book two drops. :)
Original thoughts:
- Just getting started on reading it since the pub date is just a couple weeks out.
Initial thoughts are I'm excited but scared - this may be a little more YA than I enjoy based on other reviews, but we will see. I am excited about the banging playlist at the start of the book though???
David Kushner/Bad Omens/Sleep Token and my favorite, TAYLOR SWIFT?? It's got to be a good book right? The author has clearly impeccable music taste.
4/4.5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for this ARC copy
"I'm starting to think this bond is cursing you with lunacy."
"If it is, I'll live the rest of my life cursed under your entrhall. I can't help but be obsessed with you."
Um with quotes like that??? Swoon.
So to start, I started this last night and binged all the way through today! That should tell you it was a pretty decent read, also kind of a quick one.
I have a lot of positives to say about this and only one or two semi negative things so let's get into it.
The first thing I want to discuss is the writing is beautiful. This is eloquently written. It is rare that I find a book, especially an indie book, with such nice prose. The wording was very detailed and just honestly so beautiful. It is very elaborate and detailed. Sometimes that however felt like too much, and did bog the story down just a tad, but in all honesty I would rather read overly detailed and beautiful writing than half assed writing, so that's all fine by me.
I loved the characters. Alora is a great FMC, she seems strong willed and passionate, and I love a good character building/out for revenge/badass assassin type vibes. This felt all like it was inspired by "Throne of Glass" while still being its very own unique tale, and I love that.
The only two semi negative things I have to say is the pacing felt off. At times it felt crazy rushed, and it felt too much like the story was skipping along too fast. That alone is what kept it from being a 5 star read for me. However, I will give grace there as its just book one - so we will have to wait and see what the author has in store for us in the next two books.
The only other minor complaint I have is it felt like a really strong start, and a really strong end, but the middle felt a little muddled for me. Part of that was world building/character building, etc. but then that made the beginning and ending feel a little rushed.
Again though - it was good enough as it was that I'm not mad about it! I really enjoyed the story as I mentioned, and I ate this up. I'm actually quite sad it's over for now and I am eagerly awaiting the next two books! This one was a real fun romantasy read, and I would recommend it to fans of the genre. It gave me heavy TOG vibes, with some ACOTAR vibes, etc. and I think this is going to be a really fun trilogy.
I will be picking this up to add to my own personal library upon release, and I'll likely be re-reading it again soon, or atleast before book two drops. :)
Original thoughts:
- Just getting started on reading it since the pub date is just a couple weeks out.
Initial thoughts are I'm excited but scared - this may be a little more YA than I enjoy based on other reviews, but we will see. I am excited about the banging playlist at the start of the book though???
David Kushner/Bad Omens/Sleep Token and my favorite, TAYLOR SWIFT?? It's got to be a good book right? The author has clearly impeccable music taste.
January 5, 2025
I really enjoyed this book and liked the whole premise of it - there is a lot to like and enjoy within the book as a whole. A good debut!
It is a dark fantasy romance that follows the main FMC Alora (Lor) on her quest for vengeance after her family are killed.
Some of the tropes included:
✨Fated mates
✨Found family
✨magic
✨betrayal
Potential spoilers❗️
What I liked about this book:
I thought the world building was well written with some lovely language used. The character development of the FMC was well thought out and allowed us to see her vulnerabilities as well as her strengths. There were lots of likeable characters within the supporting cast of characters.
The beginning part of the story set the scene well and I enjoyed the build of suspense in both the relationship between Lor and Mael, and with the feel of knowing something bad seemed just around the corner. It felt a bit predictable but this didn’t make it any less enjoyable to read at all. The best part for me was the second half of the book when Lor arrives at the palace and meets Ryn in a different guise to when they first met! The story pace really seems to pick up in this section and there seems more urgency and action. It ends on a cliffhanger and it’s a bit of a whopper of one! But I definitely want to know what happens next - so it hooked me in!
Why it didn’t get 5 stars for me:
So there are a couple of reasons this didn’t get 5 stars for me. Firstly there were a few inconsistencies in the writing and the plot mainly in the beginning and middle sections of the book. There were switches between present and past tense which I felt affected the flow of the book. I didn’t feel the emotional pull I would have expected for an initial mating bond and I felt this could have been explored in more depth. It felt rushed and lacking a deeper emotional connection, as did the development of her relationship with Ryn.
Secondly, I felt the middle section of the book didn’t feel as well developed as the rest and the time jumps made it feel rushed in places and yet slow paced at the same time. I would have liked to understand more about how Lor developed her powers in the time between leaving her village and becoming an assassin. I felt like this book could have been longer to include more details of those wider elements.
Those things said I did enjoy this book overall and wanted to keep reading. It was an easy but enjoyable read and the ending really grabbed me, so I am looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2. 😁
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC.
It is a dark fantasy romance that follows the main FMC Alora (Lor) on her quest for vengeance after her family are killed.
Some of the tropes included:
✨Fated mates
✨Found family
✨magic
✨betrayal
Potential spoilers❗️
What I liked about this book:
I thought the world building was well written with some lovely language used. The character development of the FMC was well thought out and allowed us to see her vulnerabilities as well as her strengths. There were lots of likeable characters within the supporting cast of characters.
The beginning part of the story set the scene well and I enjoyed the build of suspense in both the relationship between Lor and Mael, and with the feel of knowing something bad seemed just around the corner. It felt a bit predictable but this didn’t make it any less enjoyable to read at all. The best part for me was the second half of the book when Lor arrives at the palace and meets Ryn in a different guise to when they first met! The story pace really seems to pick up in this section and there seems more urgency and action. It ends on a cliffhanger and it’s a bit of a whopper of one! But I definitely want to know what happens next - so it hooked me in!
Why it didn’t get 5 stars for me:
So there are a couple of reasons this didn’t get 5 stars for me. Firstly there were a few inconsistencies in the writing and the plot mainly in the beginning and middle sections of the book. There were switches between present and past tense which I felt affected the flow of the book. I didn’t feel the emotional pull I would have expected for an initial mating bond and I felt this could have been explored in more depth. It felt rushed and lacking a deeper emotional connection, as did the development of her relationship with Ryn.
Secondly, I felt the middle section of the book didn’t feel as well developed as the rest and the time jumps made it feel rushed in places and yet slow paced at the same time. I would have liked to understand more about how Lor developed her powers in the time between leaving her village and becoming an assassin. I felt like this book could have been longer to include more details of those wider elements.
Those things said I did enjoy this book overall and wanted to keep reading. It was an easy but enjoyable read and the ending really grabbed me, so I am looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2. 😁
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2025
If I’m being completely honest, I’m still trying to untangle my thoughts after reading Daughter of Shadows and Ash, my first foray into Ember Johnson’s work. Did I love it? Hmm. Did I hate it? Definitely not. Let’s just say my feelings are currently residing in the murky middle, sipping tea and pondering their next move.
First things first—Johnson does not skimp on the action. There is a lot going on here. The plot? Solid. A vendetta-driven adventure with a touch of mated love (because what fantasy novel doesn’t throw in some romantic destiny?), and, of course, a prophecy. Because if there’s one thing fantasy authors love more than world-building, it’s a good old-fashioned ominous prophecy.
Now, about our leading lady, Alora. She’s sassy, she’s sharp, she’s magic personified—but half the time, I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on with her. One moment she’s cracking jokes, the next she’s diving headfirst into danger, and somewhere in between, she left me flipping back pages wondering if I missed a memo. Still, she carries the story with enough charm and grit to keep things interesting.
The supporting cast? Plentiful. Maybe a little too plentiful. Some of them felt like they deserved more screen time to really shine, especially considering their importance to the plot. As it stands, they were a bit like attractive strangers at a party—intriguing, but not quite memorable enough.
And let’s talk pacing. The book oscillates between rushed sequences where I felt like I was sprinting to keep up, and moments that lingered a little too long, repeating details I already grasped. That said, the ending? A breathtaking cliffhanger that left me staring at the last page, blinking in disbelief, and frantically searching for details about book two.
Despite my mixed feelings, Daughter of Shadows and Ash left me with a boatload of unanswered questions and a curiosity that won’t quit. So yes, I’ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel, hoping for a little more clarity, a little more character depth, and a lot more sass from Alora.
Final verdict: If you're in the mood for a fast-paced fantasy with action, intrigue, and a heroine who bites off more than she can chew (but somehow makes it work), give this one a go. Just be prepared for a wild ride that might leave you with a few question marks floating above your head.
First things first—Johnson does not skimp on the action. There is a lot going on here. The plot? Solid. A vendetta-driven adventure with a touch of mated love (because what fantasy novel doesn’t throw in some romantic destiny?), and, of course, a prophecy. Because if there’s one thing fantasy authors love more than world-building, it’s a good old-fashioned ominous prophecy.
Now, about our leading lady, Alora. She’s sassy, she’s sharp, she’s magic personified—but half the time, I wasn’t entirely sure what was going on with her. One moment she’s cracking jokes, the next she’s diving headfirst into danger, and somewhere in between, she left me flipping back pages wondering if I missed a memo. Still, she carries the story with enough charm and grit to keep things interesting.
The supporting cast? Plentiful. Maybe a little too plentiful. Some of them felt like they deserved more screen time to really shine, especially considering their importance to the plot. As it stands, they were a bit like attractive strangers at a party—intriguing, but not quite memorable enough.
And let’s talk pacing. The book oscillates between rushed sequences where I felt like I was sprinting to keep up, and moments that lingered a little too long, repeating details I already grasped. That said, the ending? A breathtaking cliffhanger that left me staring at the last page, blinking in disbelief, and frantically searching for details about book two.
Despite my mixed feelings, Daughter of Shadows and Ash left me with a boatload of unanswered questions and a curiosity that won’t quit. So yes, I’ll be eagerly awaiting the sequel, hoping for a little more clarity, a little more character depth, and a lot more sass from Alora.
Final verdict: If you're in the mood for a fast-paced fantasy with action, intrigue, and a heroine who bites off more than she can chew (but somehow makes it work), give this one a go. Just be prepared for a wild ride that might leave you with a few question marks floating above your head.
January 8, 2025
I'd give this book a 2.5 stars.
It has so much promise but fell short on some of the delivery. I enjoyed the beginning, with the friends to lovers trope, and it was sad when Lor's village was destroyed. I understood this developing into a plotline about revenge and how she ends up becoming an assasin. The book is reasonably fast paced here which is a strength but there is a lack of world building. I have no real sense of the war that is going on. We have no real knowledge about Lor's powers, what other powers there might be out there. There is no wider context.
When Lor leaves for Epherinia I have no idea why she had to go see a Mage or why there is a prophecy or how it was determined really why she had to marry the Prince. It felt really random. Also when Ryn declares him and Lor as mates this felt a bit random. A bond was perhaps alluded to but I think I only identified this once the mate trope was revealed because I'd read other fantasy books. It did feel like a suprise and mates could've been introduced earlier, even at the beginning when Lor reveals she loves her friend.
When Lor is in the palace it's a bit surprising she stops looking for Vengeance. I get that she's falling in love and wants to embrace this happiness but it seems strange she'd forget the years she's tried to hunt down the people in her village especially with one having been seem in the palace.
When she is kidnapped at the end, this was exciting. We knew people were jealous of her. But again it felt a bit jarring and too random to find her being imprisoned in the castle, allegedly by the King and Prince. There was no previous indication of her being at risk from them. Perhaps with wider world building, information about her powers and the politics in the kingdoms this might make more sense.
Overall I enjoyed the direction of the book and the main plot and I think this book and world has so much potential. Just without the wider world building I was a times left a bit confused and some developments felt a bit random.
It has so much promise but fell short on some of the delivery. I enjoyed the beginning, with the friends to lovers trope, and it was sad when Lor's village was destroyed. I understood this developing into a plotline about revenge and how she ends up becoming an assasin. The book is reasonably fast paced here which is a strength but there is a lack of world building. I have no real sense of the war that is going on. We have no real knowledge about Lor's powers, what other powers there might be out there. There is no wider context.
When Lor leaves for Epherinia I have no idea why she had to go see a Mage or why there is a prophecy or how it was determined really why she had to marry the Prince. It felt really random. Also when Ryn declares him and Lor as mates this felt a bit random. A bond was perhaps alluded to but I think I only identified this once the mate trope was revealed because I'd read other fantasy books. It did feel like a suprise and mates could've been introduced earlier, even at the beginning when Lor reveals she loves her friend.
When Lor is in the palace it's a bit surprising she stops looking for Vengeance. I get that she's falling in love and wants to embrace this happiness but it seems strange she'd forget the years she's tried to hunt down the people in her village especially with one having been seem in the palace.
When she is kidnapped at the end, this was exciting. We knew people were jealous of her. But again it felt a bit jarring and too random to find her being imprisoned in the castle, allegedly by the King and Prince. There was no previous indication of her being at risk from them. Perhaps with wider world building, information about her powers and the politics in the kingdoms this might make more sense.
Overall I enjoyed the direction of the book and the main plot and I think this book and world has so much potential. Just without the wider world building I was a times left a bit confused and some developments felt a bit random.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
I finished Daughter of Shadows and Ash by Ember Johnson a few weeks ago, and what a ride this enchanting story was! Picture a world woven with threads of magic, mystery, and just a sprinkle of mischief—this book is a treasure chest waiting to be opened! It took a while to really get into the meat of it but once it grabbed me, it didn't let go until the very end. That is typical for fantasy books though.
Ember Johnson has a knack for world-building. She does a fantastic job of creating a vivid landscape filled with magic, intrigue, and a touch of darkness. The rich and immersive world-building swept me off my feet and whisked me away to a land where shadows dance and whispers of adventure fill the air. I loved how the author wove in elements of fantasy while still making the characters relatable.
The protagonist, with her struggles and growth, felt like someone I could really root for. She’s a fierce soul with dreams as vast as the night. Watching her grow and tumble through trials was like witnessing a butterfly emerge from its cocoon—truly magical! Johnson has infused her with so much personality that I felt as if we were old friends, sharing secrets over piping-hot cups of tea.
The plot was a winding path of intriguing dynamics. The pacing was hit or miss, but there were enough twists and turns to keep me on my toes. I appreciated the moments of character development sprinkled throughout the action, allowing for some emotional depth that added to my connection with the story.
What really stood out to me was the intricate relationships between the characters. From friendships to rivalries, everything felt fairly genuine and well-crafted. The dialogue was snappy and filled with wit, which made some of the heavier moments hit even harder.
Overall, Daughter of Shadows and Ash is a captivating read that blends fantasy, adventure, and a bit of heart. If you’re a fan of strong female leads and intricate plots, definitely give this one a shot. I can't wait to see what else Ember Johnson creates!
Ember Johnson has a knack for world-building. She does a fantastic job of creating a vivid landscape filled with magic, intrigue, and a touch of darkness. The rich and immersive world-building swept me off my feet and whisked me away to a land where shadows dance and whispers of adventure fill the air. I loved how the author wove in elements of fantasy while still making the characters relatable.
The protagonist, with her struggles and growth, felt like someone I could really root for. She’s a fierce soul with dreams as vast as the night. Watching her grow and tumble through trials was like witnessing a butterfly emerge from its cocoon—truly magical! Johnson has infused her with so much personality that I felt as if we were old friends, sharing secrets over piping-hot cups of tea.
The plot was a winding path of intriguing dynamics. The pacing was hit or miss, but there were enough twists and turns to keep me on my toes. I appreciated the moments of character development sprinkled throughout the action, allowing for some emotional depth that added to my connection with the story.
What really stood out to me was the intricate relationships between the characters. From friendships to rivalries, everything felt fairly genuine and well-crafted. The dialogue was snappy and filled with wit, which made some of the heavier moments hit even harder.
Overall, Daughter of Shadows and Ash is a captivating read that blends fantasy, adventure, and a bit of heart. If you’re a fan of strong female leads and intricate plots, definitely give this one a shot. I can't wait to see what else Ember Johnson creates!
January 10, 2025
I really wanted to like this book, but unfortunately, it just didn’t work for me.
The story throws you straight into a fantasy world with almost no context, leaving me confused about the setting, timeline, and characters. I know this is the first book in a trilogy, but I really wish there had been a stronger foundation for the world-building and a clearer introduction to what’s going on.
Another issue for me was the narration. It kept jumping between past and present tense without any clear reason, which made it hard to stay focused and follow the flow of the story.
I also had a tough time connecting with the FMC. Her personality felt one-dimensional, and her "not like other girls" attitude came across as repetitive and frustrating. Lines like, “No one wanted a wife who could gut a deer or fight like a man” and “They were all so beautiful and dainty, not the type to scrap with men or hunt in the woods” felt overused and made her difficult to relate to.
The biggest struggle for me, though, was the writing style. It felt unpolished, with a lot of repetitive phrasing and awkward descriptions, like “I looked up at the edge of the roof, it was just beyond my reach. I jumped up, attempting to grip the hard edge of the rooftop with my fingertips. The edge slipped my grasp.” and “After barely eating anything last night, I didn’t expect to feel famished. But this morning, my hunger is an angry wench this morning.” Unfortunately, this style wasn’t a one-off but continued throughout the book, which made it hard to stay engaged.
That said, I do think the story has potential. With more polish, better pacing, and deeper world-building, this series could become something really enjoyable. For me, though, it wasn’t quite there yet.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ember Johnson for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The story throws you straight into a fantasy world with almost no context, leaving me confused about the setting, timeline, and characters. I know this is the first book in a trilogy, but I really wish there had been a stronger foundation for the world-building and a clearer introduction to what’s going on.
Another issue for me was the narration. It kept jumping between past and present tense without any clear reason, which made it hard to stay focused and follow the flow of the story.
I also had a tough time connecting with the FMC. Her personality felt one-dimensional, and her "not like other girls" attitude came across as repetitive and frustrating. Lines like, “No one wanted a wife who could gut a deer or fight like a man” and “They were all so beautiful and dainty, not the type to scrap with men or hunt in the woods” felt overused and made her difficult to relate to.
The biggest struggle for me, though, was the writing style. It felt unpolished, with a lot of repetitive phrasing and awkward descriptions, like “I looked up at the edge of the roof, it was just beyond my reach. I jumped up, attempting to grip the hard edge of the rooftop with my fingertips. The edge slipped my grasp.” and “After barely eating anything last night, I didn’t expect to feel famished. But this morning, my hunger is an angry wench this morning.” Unfortunately, this style wasn’t a one-off but continued throughout the book, which made it hard to stay engaged.
That said, I do think the story has potential. With more polish, better pacing, and deeper world-building, this series could become something really enjoyable. For me, though, it wasn’t quite there yet.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ember Johnson for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.5/5)
**Daughter of Shadow and Ash** by Ember Johnson is a dark fantasy tale that follows a young woman caught between two worlds—one of light and the other of shadow. Tasked with uncovering the truth about her mysterious heritage, she must navigate political intrigue, forbidden magic, and dangerous alliances, all while grappling with her inner darkness. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, she’s forced to make impossible choices that could reshape her world forever.
The world-building in *Daughter of Shadow and Ash* is fantastic, with a vivid and atmospheric setting that pulls you right in. The magic system is intriguing, and the political tensions add a nice layer of complexity to the story. The protagonist is compelling, though her decisions can be frustrating at times, and the supporting cast adds depth and some much-needed levity. The pacing is solid, though the middle does meander a bit before ramping up to an action-packed finale.
That said, while the book is enjoyable, it leans heavily on familiar fantasy tropes, and some of the twists felt a bit too predictable. A bit more originality and character depth could’ve elevated it further, but it’s still a fun read for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy.
Overall, *Daughter of Shadow and Ash* is a solid start to what could be a great series. If you enjoy morally gray protagonists, dark magic, and lots of intrigue, this one’s worth checking out. It’s not perfect, but it’s an engaging ride with plenty of potential!
Thank you to NetGalley and Cursebreaker books for an eArc of this book in exchange for a honest, unbiased review!
**Daughter of Shadow and Ash** by Ember Johnson is a dark fantasy tale that follows a young woman caught between two worlds—one of light and the other of shadow. Tasked with uncovering the truth about her mysterious heritage, she must navigate political intrigue, forbidden magic, and dangerous alliances, all while grappling with her inner darkness. As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, she’s forced to make impossible choices that could reshape her world forever.
The world-building in *Daughter of Shadow and Ash* is fantastic, with a vivid and atmospheric setting that pulls you right in. The magic system is intriguing, and the political tensions add a nice layer of complexity to the story. The protagonist is compelling, though her decisions can be frustrating at times, and the supporting cast adds depth and some much-needed levity. The pacing is solid, though the middle does meander a bit before ramping up to an action-packed finale.
That said, while the book is enjoyable, it leans heavily on familiar fantasy tropes, and some of the twists felt a bit too predictable. A bit more originality and character depth could’ve elevated it further, but it’s still a fun read for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy.
Overall, *Daughter of Shadow and Ash* is a solid start to what could be a great series. If you enjoy morally gray protagonists, dark magic, and lots of intrigue, this one’s worth checking out. It’s not perfect, but it’s an engaging ride with plenty of potential!
Thank you to NetGalley and Cursebreaker books for an eArc of this book in exchange for a honest, unbiased review!
January 14, 2025
This sits at 3⭐️ for me!
This book explores the story of Alora. From her humble beginnings living with her grandmother and loving her best friend to her journey to being an assassin. It explores her experience as she discovers her powers and how she could be tied to a greater cause.
There are some topics that may be triggering like death, grief, war, torture, murder, and graphic sexual content. These scenes, though, all become imperative to the overall plot.
What worked for me is the overarching fantasy plot and the mystery surrounding Alora as a character. The events she goes through contribute to her overall arc. As an FMC, I like that she is presented as someone who trains and doesn't rely solely on her magic. There are also other characters that I enjoyed reading about. Mael, Logan, Vanya, Davian, and Oryn. These are characters that I really enjoyed reading about. I do hope to find out what happens to them.
While the story was very engaging, some of the pace felt a bit disjointed. It's sometimes difficult to understand if it's a time jump. But I did still manage to follow the story. The ending was also a bit of a cliffhanger so there are things I want to understand further.
This is definitely something interesting to read for readers who enjoy fantasy. It does have romance, but I also think that for this book the focus is more on the fantasy than the romance.
Pick this up if you're looking for:
⚔️Strong FMC
⚔️Assassin
⚔️Secret identity
⚔️Fated mates
⚔️Female rage
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Victory Editing for being given a chance get an ARC of this book. All opinions on this book is my own.
This book explores the story of Alora. From her humble beginnings living with her grandmother and loving her best friend to her journey to being an assassin. It explores her experience as she discovers her powers and how she could be tied to a greater cause.
There are some topics that may be triggering like death, grief, war, torture, murder, and graphic sexual content. These scenes, though, all become imperative to the overall plot.
What worked for me is the overarching fantasy plot and the mystery surrounding Alora as a character. The events she goes through contribute to her overall arc. As an FMC, I like that she is presented as someone who trains and doesn't rely solely on her magic. There are also other characters that I enjoyed reading about. Mael, Logan, Vanya, Davian, and Oryn. These are characters that I really enjoyed reading about. I do hope to find out what happens to them.
While the story was very engaging, some of the pace felt a bit disjointed. It's sometimes difficult to understand if it's a time jump. But I did still manage to follow the story. The ending was also a bit of a cliffhanger so there are things I want to understand further.
This is definitely something interesting to read for readers who enjoy fantasy. It does have romance, but I also think that for this book the focus is more on the fantasy than the romance.
Pick this up if you're looking for:
⚔️Strong FMC
⚔️Assassin
⚔️Secret identity
⚔️Fated mates
⚔️Female rage
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Victory Editing for being given a chance get an ARC of this book. All opinions on this book is my own.
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