Ash Princess: Book 1

This book holds a complicated story with deeply connected relationships and history. The main character, Theodorsia or Theo, is forced by an invading power to change her name to Thora. She had been the next in line to be Queen, but is now nothing more than a puppet for the Keiser to utilize to his pleasure. She is called a lady yet is treated as less than human. She has “bodyguards” that follow her around and watch her every second of the day and night, even when she is changing. The abuse does not stop there. Whenever there is a reported uprising from her people, Theo gets publicly beaten. Every person in her life is connected to the Keiser and his empire and the only person that she might be able to call a friend has a father that is responsible for killing her mom right in front of her eyes. When Theo happens to see an old friend in the crowd who happens to slip her a note, she takes the chance. The boy is part of a resistance trying to get her out. She tells him that she wants to take a stand for once inside the palace and start to actually make a difference. He is resistant to the idea, but he eventually he agrees. They will tear down this empire piece by piece.

This is just a taste of the story and the intricate world building that the author has done. It is clearly not for the faint of heart, but I find it so interesting. I love how the author uses the four typical elements to enhance the story and add a deeper meaning to the smallest details. I hope you all enjoy this book as much as I have.

The next book in this series is Lady Smoke by Laura Sebastian. Other books like this one are: Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo because of the well thought out characters and backstories, Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas because of the detailed story, and Renegades by Marissa Meyer because of the wonderful character work.