Genres: NA Fantasy, Fantasy Romance, Paranormal Fantasy | Release Date: 17 October 2023 | Series: Ash and Roses | Series Book: #1 | | Indie Author | Review
“Hesitation is death.”
N. B. Snook
Overview:
I’ve been an incredibly lucky bookworm, recently receiving an ARC of Ash and Roses by indie author N. B. Snook! This gorgeous fantasy romance is inspired by the timeless tale of Beauty and the Beast, and if you’ve ever loved that story? You are going to fall head over heels for this incredible book! So let’s give you an overview, shall we?
Although Quinn is the Rosewood Prince, it’s been years since he could retain his human form for more than a few days at a time. His beast has taken over, and Quinn is the lurking terror of the forest. Everyone knows the woods aren’t safe, because no one survives the monster. But when Princess Abilene flees her home after abuse at the hands of the King, she has no idea a cursed monster might be the one to set her free… Or is she just trading one set of shackles for another? Is her being spared a sign that Quinn’s fate is changing? And what happens when a curse and kingdom collide?
Happiness Boost:
Let’s be honest, we all love tales inspired by Beauty and the Beast, don’t we? And trust me, I’ve read a fair few of them! But Ash and Roses is one of my absolute favourites, because Noel has brought so much more to this story than I ever expected! There’s more to this fantasy romance than just a cursed beast and his lady love… We get political intrigue, a wider array of characters who make a difference to the plot, and an abusive system Abby is determined to dismantle. Holy guacamole are readers in for a treat!
Ash and Roses has the perfect balance of flashbacks to current events, painting a rich and detailed scene for the reader. We don’t just see the words on the page, Noel brings this story to life in our hearts and minds. I was there when the first Marked was whipped. I clutched my throat when Abby defied death as the monster approached… Bookworms, this fantasy romance will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish!
Could this book get any better? It actually can! The enemies to lovers trope isn’t a straightforward journey within Ash and Roses, and I *love* that. Neither Abby or Quinn are infallible, and Noel highlights their vulnerabilities in such a way that I was cheering even harder for these two characters. You don’t always have to be strong. Sometimes, that’s impossible. And I love characters like them! Give me the heartache and the doubt. We need more than two-dimensional souls, and Noel delivers that in this NA fantasy.
Downside:
No downside for me, I love Ash and Roses!
Final Thoughts:
Ash and Roses by indie author N. B. Snook is a Beauty and the Beast inspired fantasy romance like you’ve never read before. I am desperate for book two already, and this gorgeous story isn’t even out yet! I need you to add it to your TBR, right now. And come back after you’ve read it so I can fangirl with you! Love what you’ve heard from my review? Just click on the link below to pre-order yourself a copy! Happy reading, glitterbugs!
You can pre-order Ash and Roses via this link: Amazon
