A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash

Kingdom of Gods #1

by J.F. Johns

A New Adult Fantasy Romance Perfect for Fans of Fourth Wing, The Bridge Kingdom, and Serpent & Dove!

The eight kingdoms have not spoken for 100 hundred years after destroying the land of the witches, turning the kingdom into a wasteland.
Until now.
Mal blackburn will end the feud between the kingdoms by marrying the fire prince, known across the lands for being cruel.
But Mal is not looking to conquer the cruel prince’s heart.
She wants to stab it.
For if Mal kills the fire prince, she will end the curse no one believes to be true. However, killing him might not be so simple...
The witches want revenge.
And everyone seems to keep secrets in the land of fire and dragons.
Including Mal Blackburn, the girl with witch eyes. The fourthborn child of the kingdom of darkness. The one that is hiding a secret that could doom them all.
Or save them.

Perfect for readers who love enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn romance, court intrigue, and dark magic.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Dragons, Romance, Fantasy Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Witches

Unknown Binding

First published May 31, 2025

About the author

J.F.Johns is 32 years old and was born and raised in Spain. She studied English Literature Creative Writing at ARU in Cambridge, UK.
In 2017, her novel “Eternal Darkness” won the “Indie Book Awards”. It was also a finalist for best cover.
She is an animal lover and spends her free time playing with her adopted dogs and cats, drinking too much coffee and reading.
She believes in the art of dramatic sighing and eye rolling. She works as a ninja at night, but has been told several times that she’s not very good at her job.
You can follow her on Instagram or Tiktok; @jfjohnsbooks
Or visit her website; www.authorjfjohns.com
Email: jfjohnsbooks@gmail.com

UPCOMING BOOKS;
A Kingdom of Sand & Ice(book2): Date to be confirmed.

Reviews

[Alice rates books˙⋆✮ · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best romantasy I've ever read!
⁀➴The writing style is astonishing: I had goosebumps while reading it. The author has an incredible way with words, crafting an amazing world that is so vividly described that I felt as though I was right there alongside the characters, experiencing their emotions and challenges firsthand.

⁀➴What's the story about?
Once upon a time, there were eight kingdoms, living in peace and serenity. But then everything changed when someone dared to choose love over duty, igniting the flames of war. Betrayed and angry, a witch cast a curse upon the eight kingdoms: revenge was all she was seeking.
Nearly a hundred years later, Mal Blackburn finds out she's the one destined to break that curse. But the fate is a funny thing: it makes you love the one you're supposed to kill. Caught between lies and obligations, she must navigate the expectations placed upon her. His mission is intertwined with the lives of characters that are not secondary but equally important. Each of them plays a fundamental role, and while Mal carries on his shoulders the weight of fate, all, each in their own way, face difficulties, intrigues, and passions.
Will she succeed in breaking the curse, or will the eight kingdoms be doomed to oblivion?

⁀➴The plot itself is nothing short of incredible: I’ve never encountered an intricately woven storyline! It’s evident that the author put a lot of effort into world-building, creating a setting that feels rich and alive. Each character is beautifully crafted, unique in their traits and backgrounds; I can't wait to read their stories.

⁀➴What I particularly appreciate is the author’s choice to present multiple points of view throughout the story. This allows readers to gain insight into the thoughts and feelings of various characters, providing a well-rounded understanding of the overarching events. The character development is exceptionally well-executed; every decision and action taken by the characters feels justified and thoughtfully explored.

⁀➴One minor criticism I have is that there were moments when the pacing felt a bit slow for my personal taste. However, upon reflection, I realize that this deliberate pacing was likely necessary to fully develop the complexities of the plot and the characters’ journeys.

She must find her own purpose in life. It is a lonely road, but one we must all embrace by ourselves. For if not, how will we truly know it is ours?

He did not look back.
He did not see her watching him disappear into the sky.
But he felt it. And gods, it hurt.

Recently I discovered they do not have a way of saying "I love you". Instead they say, "Waa kair janta" which means "we fall together". To the desert folk dying for another is the greatest form of love one could have, and therefore it is the only way to express the emotion of love in their language.

Now, how am I supposed to live my life without knowing what happens next?

Thanks to NetGalley and J. F. Johns, who provided me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
A kingdom of shadow and ash will be published May 31 2025!

[elizabeth rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark magic, wyverns, forbidden love, political scheming, and an explosive plot—A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash is a dark, addictive fantasy that swept me away from the very first page ✨️

I absolutely LOVED it. Every single box was ticked—dark, addictive magic? Check. Murder, betrayal, and political games? Check. Romance, spice, danger, and DRAGONS? CHECK. 🐲🔥⚔️

We follow Mal Blackburn, fourthborn daughter of the Kingdom of Darkness, who’s been sent to marry the Fire Prince to unite the kingdoms. But Mal’s true mission? Kill the prince, break a long-forgotten curse, and save her people from a dark, forgotten fate.

Mal was a strong, sharp, compelling lead. She's calculating, powerful, and unapologetically fierce—exactly the kind of main character I love. 🖤 No spoilers, but I'm dying to see how she evolves throughout the series.

The world itself is packed with magic and mayhem—wyverns, dragons, giant wolves, ancient curses, and warring kingdoms. As soon as the wyverns showed up in the opening chapters, I was completely hooked! 😂 This world is alive with court intrigue, rebellion, hidden magic, and dark secrets. This book balances brutality and beauty so well—there’s gore, drama, and tension, but also sharp humour, fierce loyalty, and soft moments that sneak up and wreck you. I was enraptured from start to finish.

And the ending? Absolutely brutal! I won’t spoil it, but just know that the twists and emotional gut-punches will leave you dying for the next book. A Kingdom of Sand and Ice can’t come soon enough!

I have to say, I honestly preferred Kai and Alina’s romance over the main couple. Their story had so much intensity and emotional pull. Kai, Mal’s loyal and brooding brother, helps Alina unlock a fire inside her — one that’s been buried beneath her royal status and the suffocating expectations placed on her. He doesn’t just fall for her; he sees her, challenges her, and helps her realise that she doesn’t have to be defined by duty or her family’s plans – she can choose herself. ❤️ Alina’s journey of self-discovery and strength is one I can’t wait to see unfold in the next book—especially after that bombshell ending. She’ll be out for revenge, and I am so here for it! 🔥

If you love:
• Strong, badass heroines
• Enemies-to-lovers romance
• Forbidden love
• Sibling bonds and complicated family dynamics
• Magical creatures, ancient curses, and dragons
• Court politics & high-stakes betrayal
...you’re going to be obsessed!!

Huge thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC—this was an unforgettable ride and easily one of my top reads of the year.

[sumeyya ˚₊۶ৎ˙⋆ · Rating 1 out of 5]

although the story was inspired by many well-known fantasy series, i still found it somewhat enjoyable. however, the pacing didn’t feel very smooth. the transitions between chapters were a bit disjointed, and the world-building came across as dark, dry, and gloomy. because of that, whenever i paused my reading, i didn't feel motivated to come back to it.

there were many characters —normally something I enjoy, as I love books with large casts— but unfortunately, none of them felt very relatable or deeply developed. (maybe Kai, to some extent.) as for the place names—kingdom of fire, kingdom of darkness, house of flames, house of shadows—perhaps they might have appealed to me when I was younger, but now they just felt... a little cringe.😬 

at one point, i actually considered dnf’ing the book, but i ended up pushing myself to finish it.

wishing the author all the best in their future projects. many thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC.

[Dar ⟢ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cursed kingdoms. A marriage meant to end in blood. But what if love is the deadliest twist of all?

This story follows Mal Blackburn and Ash Acheron—a fourth born princess born with forbidden magic and a ruthless fire prince feared across the realm. Forced into a marriage neither of them want, their union is the final thread in a curse that’s poisoned their kingdoms for centuries. But nothing is as it seems. Mal’s plan is to kill Ash and break the curse… except their enemies may not be each other after all. Between witches, wyverns, fae, dragons, and unraveling prophecies—this romantasy has it all, and grips you from the first page.

The world building? Expansive and vivid. The magic system is layered, the kingdoms feel distinct, and the lore is so well-woven I was immediately pulled in. The multiple POVs were seamless—never once confusing. I always knew whose head I was in, and every perspective added something crucial. By the end, I was blindsided in the best way—twists I should’ve seen coming flew right past me because I was too immersed to even look for them. That’s how you know a book has you.
The writing is clean, immersive, and cinematic. It gave me everything I wanted: romance, betrayal, ancient magic, cursed bloodlines—and dragons, obviously.

The beginning did lean a little heavy on setup and exposition, and while I personally liked it, some readers might feel a lull before the action really ramps up. Stick with it—it’s worth it! Also, the romance is definitely slow burn, so don’t expect immediate spice.

This was originally a 4 star for me, but the more I sat with it, the more I realized how much it checked all my boxes. Great characters. Great world. Great writing. Total 5 star read. I can’t wait for the second book!

──. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash by J.F. Johns
Release Date: May 31, 2025

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ACR:

I was hooked so easily considering it's 3rd person, but having the multiple pov's really kept me intrigued, even though there was one character pov I wasn't overly obsessed, it was intential to the storyline.

The actual plot I think moved a little bit slow and the ending could have happened a bit earlier on or 50 more pages could have been added because it felt rushed. The plot twist at the end I somewhat predicted and was well thought out, leaving you guessing how the 2nd book will start.

The characters I adored and I was expecting them to be different expecually Ash (Fire Prince.) He's not like the other MMC's in romanasy's I've read or heard about. He was sweet and protective when needed to be, but cold and aloof. The scenes we got with him and Mal (Shadow Princess) had the tension and the slow burn I was wanting. Mal was not whinny or weak, she was fierce and strong and stood her ground when she felt it was right.

Kai (Shadow Prince) and Alina (Fire Princess) had be at chokehold. The angst and chemistry they had was too good. Kia was the carefree, protective cheeky to what Alina needs, she was held back by her parents and Kingdom, she wants to live and chose her own destiny and Kia saw potential in her.

- 3rd multiply pov's.
- Prophecies and Gods.
- Animals/ creatures as companions.
- Family dynamics.
- Slow Burn.
- Forbidden Romances.
- Enemies To Lovers.

[Kate Victoria RescueandReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fans of Tamora Pierce and Sarah J. Maas’ works will LOVE this new series, “Kingdom of Gods”. In Book 1 we see a Wyverian princess being married off to a Draconian prince- long standing enemies united by this new alliance. However, witches are stirring in their fallen land, powers are rising, alliances can and will be broken through murder and deceit.

I think it’s been proven that if you throw a dark fantasy theme, strong female main character, and a murderous plot into a blender it creates one damn fine book. “A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash” WORKS, and I cannot wait for my GR friends to get their hands on this story.

The world building is on point with history, kingdoms, ruling families, and spectacular beasts (think giant wolves, dragons, wyverns, phoenixes and more). The characters are complex with their own personalities, traits, and arcs- good & bad.

Run, fly, swim, just don’t walk to order this epic tale!

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for a copy!

[Vanessa Lace · Rating 5 out of 5]

A massive thank you to J.F. Johns and NetGalley for the opportunity to read A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Wow—what an exhilarating ride from start to finish. I was completely hooked from the prologue and stayed glued to the pages until the very end. Our main characters, Mal Blackburn and Ash Acheron, are magnetic, but what truly elevates this book is the dynamic ensemble cast. With multiple POVs—from Alina Acheron, Kage and Kai Blackburn, to Vera and Wren Wynters—this story unfolds like an intricate tapestry. Each character’s perspective deepens the world-building and raises the emotional stakes, making this feel like a true epic fantasy in scope and tone.

The plot is filled with tension, political intrigue, magic, betrayal, and unexpected twists that had me holding my breath more than once. The pacing is sharp, the stakes are high, and the storytelling is layered and masterful. I had to physically step away a few times because my anxiety couldn’t handle what might come next—in the best possible way.

And that ending? Not what I expected at all—and now I need the next book immediately. If you’re craving a high-fantasy series with rich lore, morally gray characters, and edge-of-your-seat plotting, this one’s for you.

Seriously, this series deserves way more hype. It’s easily one of my top reads of the year and I’ll be shouting about it until book two hits my hands.

[❀ Jamie ❀ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Top read of 2025 so far! I haven’t been this invested in a book since Fourth Wing. It had me hooked from the start & that ending?! Wow! This was beautifully written and had a great plot flow. I loved the multiple romance storylines going on, but I was so invested in Mal & Ash. The arranged married & enemies to lovers was executed perfectly. I almost teared up at some parts.

I never saw the twists coming at the end. I need a special edition on my shelf ASAP & character art. I will be reading book two as soon as I am able to. This is one of my new Roman Empire books!!

Spice Rating: 🌶️🌶️

[Martina · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 ⭐

I honestly loved this and I'm eager to read book #2 in this series!! ❤️🖤
I also think I could have given this book some decimal more in the ratings if I could have managed to read it in less time.
My thoughts were a bit scrambled because I had to give it up a couple of times and then I went through the second half of it this week, but slowly by my standards.

I lost momentum, but the book still got me excited and managed to make me fall in love with several characters.
This has a bit of a Game Of Thrones vibes mixed with the Sarah J. Maas ways and I'm totally here for it!
I especially loved the main female character, Mal, because she was both strong and tender in a curious way that made her particularly vivid for me.
Kai made me blush and giggle but Wren and Kage had me really hooked there. I'm screaming to know how things will evolve with them.
The fire siblings had me a bit in doubt and, especially Alina, I began to appreciate on the way to the end.

The world building was amazing, it paved the ground for potentially infinite stories in the story. I want to know more about all the kingdoms and the creatures — and now the Gods. 😍

The little critiques I have:
- The story was really slow in the first half of the book. And I do know that the motivation is the world building that was being made and the fact that this is book #1 in a potentially very long series, but I did feel it.
- Because of the material being served, the writing style might have been a bit more deep and rich in some parts of the book I actually found simplistic and YAish. It's like I was feeling immersed in an HBO series and suddenly it was the CW. Love both, but each has its own sentiment and in the book they were confused 😆


I also hope this review will be coherent for those who will read it, because it's been a while since I've done one! ✨

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

❁ Thank you to Netgalley and J. F. Johns for the opportunity to read the ARC of this in exchange of my honest opinion — ARC provided by Independent(Indie) ❁

[Evangeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Received as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review/feedback*

This was the most incredible book I have ever read! I feel like I could talk about this book forever and still have things to rave about. There was just so much thought and detail that went into every character, every setting, every kingdom, every storyline - just incredible. I was completely amazed how the author was able to weave together so many storylines and still keep it a cohesive story. I also loved the overarching storyline from Tabitha Wysteria - the witch who originally cursed the 8 kingdoms. I enjoyed coming back to her retelling at the beginnings of every chapter as a little insight into what happened in the past.

I truly think the growth of all the characters was very well-done. We start off with Mal Blackburn who is quite headstrong and is hell-bent on killing the Drakonian Prince thinking he is a brute, but we see her quickly come to realize that things are not always as they seem once she meets Ash. I loved the vulnerability in Ash's character as well, it made him more relatable and I could empathize with the way he acted in the Drakonian court. I do have to say that although Mal and Ash were the stars of this particular installment in the series, Kai and Alina stole my heart. The yearning between the two was out of this world and I can't wait to see how their side of the story unfolds in upcoming books (hopefully!!).

My only critique would be that I don't have the second book in my hands already and I now have to wait an unknown amount of time until I can jump back into this world hahaha Thank you JF Johns for trusting me with an ARC of your book!

[giulsxx]

got the arc!!!
hope this is gooooodddd

[elisha ࣪ ༘࿐ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5⭐️

Firstly, thank you to NetGalley and J.F. Johns for the arc!!

I had such a good time reading this book it absolutely succeeded my expectations! Immediately the writing and world building had me hooked and I quickly fell in love with the characters.

This was definitely inspired by some well known fantasy titles, however the world still felt unique and I found myself so invested in this story.

I absolutely recommend this to fantasy lovers!! Can't wait for more to come🖤

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, wow. This is the ultimate dark fantasy, enemies to lovers, slow burn book.

The world-building is so good, so rich and immersive, and so well written. Tons of mythical creatures such as wyvern, dragons, fae, witches, and more.

This story revolves around an arranged marriage between kingdoms, and an ancient curse, however it shares with us several different POV and characters weaved through the story. I feel like it greatly enhanced the storyline and didn’t at all feel overwhelming. Typically so many characters / kingdoms may feel confusing, but I didn’t find it hard to follow along at all.

The pace was consistent throughout, but let me tell you the last 150 pages or so was straight HEAT. 🔥 I am hanging onto the edge of my seat, and need book two immediately 😅

Thank you so much NetGalley for the ARC! ♥️

[Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I absolutely loved this ARC! A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash is the kind of romantasy that pulls you in from page one with its effortless world-building and memorable characters. The world itself was easy to follow despite its scale—eight distinct kingdoms, each with their own unique flavor (dragons, wyverns, WOLVERINES!? Yes please)—and it never felt overwhelming or confusing.

The multi-POV structure was a huge win for me. We get to spend time in the heads of several characters (at least half a dozen), but the shifts were seamless and never jarring. I always knew exactly whose perspective I was in, which kept me grounded in the story.

Mal was everything I want in a fantasy heroine: clever, strong, morally grey in all the best ways—but with a soft side that made her so easy to root for. And Ash… soft, sweet, and flawed in a way we don’t often get with male leads. His vulnerability and quiet strength made him feel refreshingly real and human without ever making him weak.

Their slow-burn romance had a great build-up, but if I’m honest, I wanted that tension to stretch just a bit longer. Once they finally communicated (verbally and... otherwise wink), it tipped into insta-lovey territory a little faster than I’d have liked.

The side characters? Absolutely addictive. I could’ve read whole chapters just on Kai and Kage. And Wren was hilarious—I hope we see even more of them in the next book.

The pacing was spot on, with writing that flowed beautifully—simple enough to be smooth and engaging without ever feeling too dense or overdone. Plus: no cringe dialogue, which is always a relief in this genre.

A super strong start to a world I can’t wait to return to. 4.5 stars!⭐️

[TomeAfterTome Tess · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW. Just—wow.

This book didn’t just pull me in— it dragged me, breathless and willing, through every page! From the very first sentence, I was immersed in a world so vivid… so visceral, it felt like stepping through a portal into something dangerously alive.

Mal Blackburn is pure fire; fierce, defiant, and burning with the kind of rage that makes you want to stand up and scream with her. She’s the embodiment of every woman who’s ever been underestimated and she owns it. Watching her evolve, break, and rise again was nothing short of exhilarating.

The forbidden love? It simmers. It's electric and aching, the kind of tension that coils in your chest and refuses to let go. Their chemistry is undeniable, full of stolen glances, reckless touches, and the kind of need that feels like war.

And then there's the rebellion. The betrayal. The relentless call to resist. This story doesn’t shy away from the hard themes like duty, sacrifice, oppression, power, and it weaves them into every character, every twist, every quiet moment before all hell breaks loose again.

The characters don’t just live on the page— they haunt you. Every one of them is layered, flawed, unforgettable. And just when you think you know what’s coming, the author rips the rug out from under you with secrets you never saw coming.

I especially appreciated the way the author organically whoa the world building in throughout the entire novel through letters from a character that set the curse which bound the fates of Mal & Ash. Not only was this a creative and effective tool to use, but also pulls you that much deeper into their world.

This book is cinematic. Bold. Unapologetically powerful. It demands the spotlight. If a publisher doesn’t snatch this up, it’ll be one of the greatest missed opportunities in the genre.

Book 2 of the Kingdom of Gods series can't get in my hands fast enough. I need more… more fire, more betrayal, more of that forbidden heat that will have to burn all of this in opposition down in order to survive. This is the kind of story that stays with you.

Thank you so much to the author for a copy of this e-book in exchange for my honest review.

[EmG ReadsDaily · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first book in the Kingdom of Gods series. This is a dark, yet beautifully depicted fantasy romance.

There are eight kingdoms in this fabulous fantasy story, which could become confusing if not for the helpful family trees at the beginning of the book. This offered me a very useful explanation of each kingdom, and the relevant family members within each house. Of course, there is also a helpful map to offer an explanation of the layout of the Kingdom of Gods.

I really enjoyed the richly described world, complex magical system, political intrigue, mysterious curse, strong sibling bonds. As well as the variety characters, including witches, wolves, fae, wyverns, phoenix, shadow companions, serpents, and dragons.

I am keen to read what happens next For Mal Blackburn in A kingdom of Sand and Ice.

With thanks to J.F Johns and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy of this ebook, to read and review.

[Erin W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thanks to NetGalley for providing me with this ARC!

Although this was not perfect, this was an absolute 5.0 star read, absolutely loved it.

Sadly, there were some inconsistencies like Mal’s motivation to agree to the marriage, which was later something else than stated at first. And I also felt like the relationship progressed a little fast (both Mal’s and Kai’s tbh). Buuuttt that is literally the only bad thing I could say about the book. The rest is absolute perfection.

I loved how you got so many different characters’ “perspective” (it was third person but kept following a different character). Usually this can be quite confusing and abrupt as you are constantly jumping around to different characters, but in this case it was done sooo well (again third-person pov was definitely the right choice). This just really kept the story going but also created tension and suspense.

I also just fell in love with every single character. There were quite a lot of characters but they were all fleshed out so well! They all had their own motivations and personalities (in line with their kingdoms) and they all felt like they could be real people, they were all round characters that had realistic conversations and were soo funny, savage and just chefs kiss (ESPECIALLY KAI!!!!) Furthermore (one of) the antihero, the Fire Queen, in this story had actual, logical motivations for doing the things she did (although I did hate the slap so much) and as a reader you understood where she came from.

And don’t even get me started on the world and the masterly crafted kingdoms. There are quite a few but J.F. Johns managed to make them all unique, even if they were similar.

Anyways, now I have to grieve the fact that this book was just published and I probably have to wait a long time for the second book but as soon as I can get my hands on it I HAVE to read it because I’m officially obsessed with this series! I look forward to finding out more about the world and the gods, to meeting new characters/ getting to know existing ones better and to clear up that ending!

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm giving this all the stars! I'm yelling at you to read this book, my only issue is I wish I could go into the next book.

So many plot twists I didn't see coming and had me absolutely floored/screaming. I just want to ramble on and on about this book, but you need to trust me and read it for yourself.

✨Vibes✨
-Dragons and other fantasy creatures
-100 year curses
-Sibling bonds and complicated family dynamics
-3rd Person POV

[Aisha Virk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish there was more an explanation of the actual world and magic. Along with the certain houses and what the people there look like. They’re are some explanations but not enough. For example they mentioned in passing that it’s always night time. Does that mean there’s never a day and it’s always dark. Same with the rotted food thing. Do they only eat rotten food and if so what’s the point of food then?

The world building needed more help and more detail. There was a bunch of random things thrown in, and the reader is expected to just figure it out instead of it being explained properly. The third person POV took some time to get used to, but to add to the chaos there’s multiple POV’s that the stories told through, which also made it confusing to attach to the main character

This was listed under New adult, but it’s deff more YA. Spice is 1/5 at best

And this is just me being really really nitpicky, but I felt like there was too many descriptive words. Like everything doesn’t need to have this elaborate description leading up to it. a sword can just be a sword. It doesn’t have to be a gleaming, glistening molting thing. My point being every time a sword has mentioned it doesn’t have to be this exuberant trail of words.

Now why the 3 stars and not lower…well the ending kind of hooked me so I’ll be speed reading book 2 when it comes

[Milda · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read A Kingdom of Shadow and Ash in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I’m honestly surprised this book isn’t more popular. It had so many things I enjoy in a fantasy—memorable characters, intriguing magic, dangerous creatures, and multiple kingdoms at odds. The worldbuilding and unraveling plot reminded me a bit of Sarah J. Maas’s work. While it’s not as intricate as hers, the action, politics, and well-placed secrets kept me turning the pages well into the night 🌙✨.

I especially loved Kai—one of those characters I can’t help but root for—and I’m really hoping nothing bad happens to him in the sequel 🤞.

This is a great pick for fantasy fans who enjoy political intrigue, hidden truths, and a dash of danger alongside magic and adventure. I’ll definitely be picking up the sequel.

#AKingdomOfShadowAndAsh #NetGalley

[April Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR CONTENDER!

This is High Fantasy mixed with high romance. The writing is absolutely beautiful and rich, the world building and character development is also rich. If you've been wanting MORE from your romantasies, this is it.

Mal Blackburn has to break a curse by marrying the prince of an enemy kingdom and then OFFING HIM. Only to do that would ignite another great war against all the kingdoms, and if she doesn't, EVERYONE CEASES TO EXIST. Talk about a rock and a hard place. There are no humans in this story. Our main character is very Maleficent. You also have a stuttering hero who is a secret softy. Muli-POV and many intersecting storylines. I'm a solid romantasy girl and this is the most high fantasy book i've read in a while. It reminds of gigantic worlds like lord of the rings and game of thrones. This is the first in a series so be prepared for that ending!

medium sizzle in the spice department.
slow burn/build.
EPIC IN EVERY WAY.

ARC copy provided through NetGalley, but I'm buying this one IMMEDIATELY.

[Gabby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 3 Stars ⭐️
Spice: ⅕ 🌶️ (Sexual scenes, but with very limited details)

🐉Fantasy
⚔️3rd Person POV
❤️Enemies to Lovers
✨Forced Proximity

Woah, okay… Where do I even start? I have just put this novel down and I am feeling so many emotions, but what I do know is that the overall story absolutely captivated me to continue reading until the very end.

Let’s dive in and start off by saying this book took me a little off guard because it is in the 3rd person POV and there is a lot of chapters that we swap back from one person to the next. Our main characters, I think, I hope, is Mal. Mal is the fourth daughter of the King and Queen of the kingdom of Darkness. What’s unusual about this is that up until now, every king/queen from the kingdom of Darkness has only had 3 children. So when Mal is born as a fourth born and with purple eyes (which indicates witch abilities), not only does it defy the previous tradition of only having 3 children, but also leaves questions of if she is cursed. Having previously been enemies of the Kingdom of Fire, Mal is to be married to the prince of the Kingdom of Fire, Ash, in order to create peace between the two kingdoms. However, there is talks of Ash and Mal being the chose ones — the prophecy states that one must kill the other in order to truly break the curse of all 8 kingdoms.

Starting off this book, I was a little confused by the abrupt changes in POV’S. Mind you this is all 3rd person POV. One chapter, I am reading about Mal and Ash, then the next we are reading about a scene that is between Kai(Mal’s Brother) and Alina (Ash’s Sister). Then it goes back to Mal and Ash,only to then switch again to Kade (Mal’s other brother) and Wren ( A princess from one of the other 8 kingdoms). This makes it extremely confusing and lacks the depth and connection I usually crave for in my novels. Not only did it leaving me wanting more of my main characters, it made me very confused about the overall rules, and story building of the world. For the first half of the book, it felt like things were constantly thrown in without any previous explanations or mentions. It made me wish that there was just a little more attention to detail in the writing that fully explained things clearly.

I’ll be the first to admit, I never realized, until reading that this book, that I don’t think I have ever really read many novel’s in 3rd person before. With this being said, I am incredibly amazed by the author’s ability in the overall plot points, to still keep me intrigued and captivated to continue reading a novel that I didn’t fully connect with. It’s truly such a unique and very complex plot,that I am still intrigued by, but I feel if this was a dual POV written in 1st person, it would have truly been a hit with the book community. Something about the 3rd person POV is what truly throws the entire book off.

Moving on to the overall tropes of this book. We get enemies to loves, forced proximity, arranged marriage and a little bit of forbidden love from some of the other characters in the book. The spice in this book is little to non existent — we have a few scenes where it’s very loosely implied that it leads to more, but it’s not in depth for what I most new-adult novels would include. I think this is more of a YA fantasy than a new adult fantasy because of this alone. As a romance/ dark romance girly, I usually like my books with at least a few smutty scenes throughout the book and I was so sad because the slow burn build up was there, but it just fizzled out 🥺

While I feel this book was missing a depth of connection with the reader, I will still be picking up the 2nd book to find where the author takes us with this story. After all, after that cliffhanger, how could I not?! If you’re someone who is looking for a story that doesn’t have a whole lot of spicy, is very complex, and keeps you page turning, then you will enjoy this book!

Thank you for gifting me an ARC to read and review.I hope to read more from the author and hope the next book is even better 💕

[BigAzzReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book, this book, this book.

Okay. First of all, I did notice a lot of similarities in names and themes when it comes to the Throne of Glass and ACOTAR series. I’m not sure if it’s coincidence or not.

But.

It took a whole different twist. Like… I started panicking in the last 20 or so pages because I wasn’t aware there will be a second book. I thought the ending would be rushed which I am very very glad it wasn’t.

My favorite characters for sure are Mal, Kai, Kage, and Ash. I may have crushes on the males.

I’m very curious to see what happens next. But the fantasy on this book is incredibly. I really enjoyed the world building and the differences between different kingdoms. I also enjoyed how there were multi-layered perspectives on each character. For example, from Mal’s POV in the beginning, she seemed lost. Not weak but vulnerable. And yet, when we’re introduced to her from Ash’s perspective, she’s a fierce warrior. Cunning and dangerous. I thought it was awesome.

I definitely can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy as a little trophy since I was very fortunate to read the ARC of this book.

A big thank you to NetGalley and also to J.F. Johns and the team handling all of this. I can’t wait to read book 2!

[Maegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐️ I was honored to receive an ARC for this one. To be honest, the cover hooked me. I know they say not to judge a book by its cover, but I couldn't help myself.
This story was so complex. The magic systems and the world building were perfect. I felt connected to every single character that graced the pages.
This is more high fantasy, in my opinion. The 3rd person POV was great for getting the perspective of all these different characters from all the different lands.
I look forward to reading more from this author.

[♡❀Caroline❀♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

4½ ⭐

For my fantasy book lovers!

• Enemies to Lovers
• Slow Burn
• Court/Politics Settings
• Family Dynamic/ Sibling bonds
• Multiple 3rd person POVs
• ✨ Dark Magic ✨
• 🌶️ ( Rated PG )
• Cliffhanger

Here you meet Mal Blackburn, who feels left out in her world. Aggress to a marriage proposal, to the Fire Prince. Everyone is thinking, the unity will end a feud that started long ago between kingdoms. Little do they know she must drive a stake into the Princes heart, to save their kingdom.

The cover alone peaked my interest.
The plot itself I enjoyed. At times the transitions, weren't as smooth between chapters or POVs. Was it enough to steer me away from finishing the book ...obviously not.
The dynamics between the characters had me giggling and giddy. The twists towards the end, was not something I expected. It definitely left me wanting more. I'm excited to see what the future holds for this universe.

Thank you Netgalley and J.F Johns for the ARC 🫶🏾

[Jessica · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you need an example of a book that is trying too hard, this is it. We’re told about this world with several different kingdoms that are so vastly different from each other that it’s difficult to imagine what it’s actually like despite the overwhelming descriptions. I still don’t fully understand what the homeland of the Wyverians is supposed to be like. And speaking of descriptions, we are practically drowning in so many details that it makes the story drag on. I often found myself checking my reading progress because of how much details I was taking in only to see I barely made a dent. There are so many adjectives that it was practically eye-roll worthy—some of them were so ridiculous and well, trying too hard, that it made the entire thing feel out of place.

Overall the story had potential but it was so flooded with unnecessary information that it prevented me from connecting with any of the characters.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.

[shotsofbrandy ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to thank Netgalley and J.F. Johns for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.
If you're looking for enemies-to-lovers, unique magic system, WYVERNS, amazing and complex main and minor characters, court politics, unexpected and earth-shattering plot twists? READ THIS.

This story put me in a chokehold, immediately. Honestly, this ARC was life-changing in the way that I want to scream from the rooftops about it. The way J.F. threads her words and story together is beyond riveting. It's absolutely brilliant. When an author can craft their writing in a poetic way and it not be excessive, it's a talent unlike anything else.

Mal Blackburn.
Oh darling, how I love you fiercely. My favorite.
Our main female character. I'm about to struggle to explain this complex woman. You've heard of a shadow daddy? Mal is a shadow mommy. Her darkness was light for my soul. Her attitude? Chef kiss Her intelligence? Out of this world. I've never read a character that has the same fiery sass and comebacks as me. Her determination is something I wish I possessed. She's headstrong and hard-headed, and unlike some characters I've read in previous books, it's not annoying or frustrating but inspiring.
“A thing born of despair, sculpted of nightmares, woven together by forgotten gods.”
“The dead longed for her, called to her, promising an end to everything that ached. It would be easy. One step. One breath. One surrender.”

Ash Archeron.
Oh how I questioned my love for you, but you won my heart.
Our main male character. This man is soft, but not weak. He has a stutter, but each word holds deep meaning. He's had his fair share of trauma and struggles to open up. But when this man finally lets down his guard? PERFECTION. He's not as complex as Mal, but they balance each other.

This book is giving creatures from the Maleficent movie with Angelina Jolie.

I don't have the words for all of our beautiful minor characters that really represent. They are diverse in their beliefs, religions, looks, and even their speech. Each one, I adored more and more, with each passing page. Alina will forever have a piece of my heart. Vera is such an evil little twit. Wren is an adhd baby that I never want to let go of. Kai can take me against a tree. Kage is too smart and quiet, never know his motives. Haven is a babe that I still cry over. I could go on and on.

All I have to say is, grab this book because it will alter your brain with the plot twists, characters, and magic system.

[Rani · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

We're following Mal Blackburn, the fourth born of the Kingdom of Darkness, who is in an arranged marriage with Ash Acheron, the Heir Prince of the Kingdom of Fire. But Mal intends to kill her husband in order to break a curse and save her people.

It was giving the Bridge Kingdom but much more fantasy heavy?
This was reaaaaaallly good. It read like an adult romantasy (and I'm not saying that because of the smut scenes they were actually pretty tame and non-explicit), it's a Multi-POV 3rd person book which I ADORE. I loved changing the POV and also loved getting excerpt of a diary every chapter.

The world-building was just the right amount of complicated, the story took a little long to start but it was very nice to see everything entangled in the end. I would have enjoyed a little bit more introduction to the different kingdoms maybe?
Not only did I like Mal's character but I loved getting her brothers' POV too, both Kai and Kage are very different, and it added a lot to the story.
The only character I felt was a little bit bland, especially in the beginning, was Ash?

Can I admit I found the romance between Kai and Alina so much better than Mal and Ash's? Is it bad? they're supposed to be side characters but damn their relationship was deep, it had meaning, I LOOOVED their banter, they were intense. I was not expecting to read several romance stories and I was pleasantly surprised :)

This book is filled with court intrigue, strategies, magical creatures and unknown dark magic.
Tropes:
- arranged marriage
- forbidden love
- enemies-to-lovers
- ancient curses
- who did this to you
- trainer/trainee
- animal companions
- complicated family dynamics
- dragons & wyverns
- fae & witches

Huge thanks to NetGalley for the ARC, it's one of my top fantasy reads this year. I am very eager to read the next book!!

[Lilli · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and J.F. Johns ✨

3.75 ⭐️ — she’s morally grey, he’s soft, and I’m invested

Okay so… was this book revolutionary? No.
Did it give me all the vibes I needed to keep reading at 2AM like a feral little book goblin? Absolutely.


👑 The Setup

The worldbuilding felt familiar — like, if I had a dollar for every time I read about a kingdom called something vaguely ominous like Kingdom of Darkness or Kingdom of Fire, I could afford therapy and a custom sword. But you know what? I didn’t mind. It’s giving cozy cliché, and sometimes that’s exactly what I’m in the mood for.


🖤 Characters & POVs

We’ve got multiple POVs, and while I appreciated the range, I lowkey found myself speed-reading through a few just to get back to Mal and Ash. Like sorry not sorry, but they were the main event.
• Ash was actually a surprise fave. He’s soft, a little broken, and has the kind of quiet loyalty that makes me emotionally unstable. Normally I don’t go for the cinnamon roll types, but he got me.
• Mal is the moral ambiguity we all crave. She’s stabby, strategic, and trying her best not to crumble under the weight of an entire kingdom and her own trauma. Queen behavior.


📝 Writing & Vibes

The writing? Flowy but accessible. No purple prose overdose, no cringe dialogue. Just solid pacing, clean descriptions, and the kind of tone that lets you sink into the story without feeling like you’re doing mental gymnastics.


🔥 Romance (aka me screaming at my Kindle)

Slow burn girlies, rise. The tension was there… but I needed more before we got to the payoff. Like give me a scene with emotional tension so thick I want to scream into a pillow. Once they finally talked (and, um, did the deed), it felt like a switch flipped and suddenly they were all heart eyes and soulmates?? I needed a bit more internal struggle or messy vulnerability before the insta-true-love vibes kicked in.


📚 Final Thoughts

Will I read book two? The moment it drops.
Am I already manifesting more angst and morally questionable choices in it? Always.

If you like:
• morally grey female leads
• soft MMCs who would 100% die for you
• familiar tropes but executed with vibes
• and slow burns that almost burn you alive

…then yeah, you’ll probably devour this.


💬 Favorite quote:

“She had been prepared to kill, but he made her wish she had been taught how to feel.”

(Okay that’s not real but it should be??)


📖 see you in book two. I’ll be waiting for more chaos and longing 🫶

#KingdomOfShadowAndAsh #NetGalleyARC #SlowBurnAddict #NotLikeOtherKingdoms (but kinda)

[Tao Gower-Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY SHIT THANK YOU NETGALLEY FOR LETTING ME READ THIS INCREDIBLE FREAKING BOOK!

GO PREORDER… RIGHT FREAKING NOW