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Guardians of Ascension #4
Born of Ashes
Enter a hidden world of winged vampire warriors—and the women they are sworn protect...
For years, she was kept as a human slave—one of seven unwilling “blood donors” for the death vampires who thirst for absolute power. Now, Fiona is a free woman, haunted by her memories of being strapped to a gurney, drained of blood, then revived at the last moment. She lives to avenge her captors—but only one warrior can help her...
Jean-Pierre has lived and fought for over two-hundred years. He knows the triumph of slaying a death vampire, but has never known anything like the feelings that arise when he becomes Fiona’s guardian. Her beauty, her pain, her passion—and her growing power—consume his senses. Now the warrior must draw his sword once more…and fight the gates of hell itself—for love.
For years, she was kept as a human slave—one of seven unwilling “blood donors” for the death vampires who thirst for absolute power. Now, Fiona is a free woman, haunted by her memories of being strapped to a gurney, drained of blood, then revived at the last moment. She lives to avenge her captors—but only one warrior can help her...
Jean-Pierre has lived and fought for over two-hundred years. He knows the triumph of slaying a death vampire, but has never known anything like the feelings that arise when he becomes Fiona’s guardian. Her beauty, her pain, her passion—and her growing power—consume his senses. Now the warrior must draw his sword once more…and fight the gates of hell itself—for love.
436 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 3, 2012
37 people are currently reading
1609 people want to read
About the author
Caris Roane
59 books1,629 followersI confess I've had a love affaire with vampires for several years now, especially warrior vampires, the kind found in the books of Sherrilyn Kenyon, Lara Adrian and JR Ward. Though I've been published in Regency Romance under the pseudonym Valerie King--and yes one of my Regency Novellas features a vampire--one day I woke up knowing I had to create my own contemporary world of the warrior vampire.
For some mystical, magical reason, early in the process, my vampires appeared with enormous beautiful wings and it has been the most amazing experience to include flight in my novels, in both battle scenes and scenes involving spectacle. My special vampire world, published by St. Martin's Press, is introduced in the first book called, ASCENSION (12-28-2010). The second book, BURNING SKIES (May of 2011), opens up the world a little bit more. And even as I write this, I'm on the final draft of my third novel, WINGS OF FIRE (September of 2011). What a thrill it has been to live with my ascended vampires through the creation of this extraordinary, multi-dimensional world!
For more information about my unique take on the vampire mythos, check out my website at carisroane.com and my book release video on YouTube by putting in the search phrase, Caris Roane Ascension.
With every hope you'll enjoy reading my books set in the World of Ascension, All my best, Caris Roane
For some mystical, magical reason, early in the process, my vampires appeared with enormous beautiful wings and it has been the most amazing experience to include flight in my novels, in both battle scenes and scenes involving spectacle. My special vampire world, published by St. Martin's Press, is introduced in the first book called, ASCENSION (12-28-2010). The second book, BURNING SKIES (May of 2011), opens up the world a little bit more. And even as I write this, I'm on the final draft of my third novel, WINGS OF FIRE (September of 2011). What a thrill it has been to live with my ascended vampires through the creation of this extraordinary, multi-dimensional world!
For more information about my unique take on the vampire mythos, check out my website at carisroane.com and my book release video on YouTube by putting in the search phrase, Caris Roane Ascension.
With every hope you'll enjoy reading my books set in the World of Ascension, All my best, Caris Roane
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
May 25, 2017
Spoilers
I really Really liked this one I loved Fiona She was strong and a fighter and she was kind. I loved Jean-Pierre the french thing was cute and I love that he has a son. That they both have a child and grandchildren. I feel they had a sweet love story they took it slow but it wasn't like the others where they fought it all the time. I love that Fiona made a HQ to find other slaves and help them. Fiona and Jean-Pierre where a cute couple my fav so far, and I didn't want to shake the hell outta either one of them lol.. Very good book, but I have a feeling I will hate the next one because from what I have read in this one I hate Marguerite I mean really could she be anymore trashy and hateful selfish she didn't even give a crap that she was hurting a man that could be sent to death for getting her out of her prison or that they have been together for over 100 years and she leaves him hurts him and disrespects him by coming on to his fellow brothers and just wanting to sleep with everyone not much to like really but I will read and see if she can redeem herself even a lil
I really Really liked this one I loved Fiona She was strong and a fighter and she was kind. I loved Jean-Pierre the french thing was cute and I love that he has a son. That they both have a child and grandchildren. I feel they had a sweet love story they took it slow but it wasn't like the others where they fought it all the time. I love that Fiona made a HQ to find other slaves and help them. Fiona and Jean-Pierre where a cute couple my fav so far, and I didn't want to shake the hell outta either one of them lol.. Very good book, but I have a feeling I will hate the next one because from what I have read in this one I hate Marguerite I mean really could she be anymore trashy and hateful selfish she didn't even give a crap that she was hurting a man that could be sent to death for getting her out of her prison or that they have been together for over 100 years and she leaves him hurts him and disrespects him by coming on to his fellow brothers and just wanting to sleep with everyone not much to like really but I will read and see if she can redeem herself even a lil
March 13, 2023
Born of Ashes is the 4th installment in the "Guardians of Ascension" series. I had this as one of my Romanceopoly Picks for "Spring". I honestly really enjoyed this one quite a bit, but fair warning the Ebook is expensive, like double the price of the mass market. I almost wanted to go with a different book but no one else carries this and as I don't really read physical books, I doubted the price would go down since its an older book. I am glad at least that it was a enjoyable solid read though to enjoy.
This is a story where I do think you need to read the series in order in order to understand what is happening with the couple. Its a fated mate set up but also the heroine was used as a blood slave for many years and was recently rescued and learning to heal and find herself again. So the hero, Jean-Pierre is taking it really slow with her, gradually taking her on dates and being her protector as they work together to bring down the man responsible for doing this to her and many other innocent women. We see how the heroine Fiona, is coming into her abilities and learing to mount her wings and opening herself up to the connection between herself and Jean Pierre.
This was such a endearing romance, its a bit of a slow burn due to the circumstances surrounding their relationship. But you see how they are so in for each other in making it work between them. Jean Pierre is French and man he is one sexy hero. I really adored him and how he is with Fiona. It was so sweet in so many ways. But he is also an alpha male, so his masculine tendancies sometimes gets in the way at times, but Fiona is really kind and patient and while she does stand up to him, she is also compassionate and understanding for the most part. I just loved how "together" this couple is and how they face the conflict head on.
Overall I found Born of Ashes to be an endearing read! It was packed with high energy, kick ass scenes, spicy sensuality and a warm heart filled romance to curl your toes!
This is a story where I do think you need to read the series in order in order to understand what is happening with the couple. Its a fated mate set up but also the heroine was used as a blood slave for many years and was recently rescued and learning to heal and find herself again. So the hero, Jean-Pierre is taking it really slow with her, gradually taking her on dates and being her protector as they work together to bring down the man responsible for doing this to her and many other innocent women. We see how the heroine Fiona, is coming into her abilities and learing to mount her wings and opening herself up to the connection between herself and Jean Pierre.
This was such a endearing romance, its a bit of a slow burn due to the circumstances surrounding their relationship. But you see how they are so in for each other in making it work between them. Jean Pierre is French and man he is one sexy hero. I really adored him and how he is with Fiona. It was so sweet in so many ways. But he is also an alpha male, so his masculine tendancies sometimes gets in the way at times, but Fiona is really kind and patient and while she does stand up to him, she is also compassionate and understanding for the most part. I just loved how "together" this couple is and how they face the conflict head on.
Overall I found Born of Ashes to be an endearing read! It was packed with high energy, kick ass scenes, spicy sensuality and a warm heart filled romance to curl your toes!
February 15, 2012
Caris Roane adds passion into her books and it really shows because as I read the characters and story comes to life. Born of Ashes is no exception with this being the fourth in this series Caris writing really shines in this story of hair standing action, emotions and of course, let’s not forget those hot yummy vampire warriors of hers.
Caris, my hat goes off to you for writing Fiona. Out of the hundreds of book I have read there are not many heroines I have wanted to be but I wanted to be Fiona. I loved her passion, courage, and her awesome powers.
You read some about Jean-Piarre and Fiona in the third book. In this book Fiona is trying to save the women slaves and there is no stopping her once she is started. Jean-Piarre has always been one of the hottest warriors in this series to me and he didn’t disappoint me as I got into his head in this book, he’s a fantastic warrior and mate to Fiona. Together they have non-stop action in doing what they both do best, fighting evil.
Caris is an amazing author that has come up with a unique way to put a twist on vampires. If you want romance, action and great characters please give her World of Ascension series a try. If you love yummy vampires you know you can’t resist;)
Caris, my hat goes off to you for writing Fiona. Out of the hundreds of book I have read there are not many heroines I have wanted to be but I wanted to be Fiona. I loved her passion, courage, and her awesome powers.
You read some about Jean-Piarre and Fiona in the third book. In this book Fiona is trying to save the women slaves and there is no stopping her once she is started. Jean-Piarre has always been one of the hottest warriors in this series to me and he didn’t disappoint me as I got into his head in this book, he’s a fantastic warrior and mate to Fiona. Together they have non-stop action in doing what they both do best, fighting evil.
Caris is an amazing author that has come up with a unique way to put a twist on vampires. If you want romance, action and great characters please give her World of Ascension series a try. If you love yummy vampires you know you can’t resist;)
August 14, 2012
What's better than a vampire warrior with wings, built like a Greek god and wears a leather kilt? Absolutely freaking nothing! Caris Roane takes us on a wonderful ride, to a fantasy PNR world that's sexy and thrilling. And guaranteed to have you salivating for more. Loved it!
January 5, 2013
Ahhhh, after the abyss that was Book 3, its great to get back to what I was enjoying about this series. Now, I've never been all that impressed with French anything. But then I read this and now I'm in love with Jean-Pierre!!
Jean-Pierre and Fiona... ahhh! A match made in heaven!! Jean-Pierre is awesome! He's so sexy with his wavy, unruly blonde hair, sculpted cheekbones and super hot body. He's also a sweet guy and a considerate lover. LOL! Pretty much a dream guy, I'd say. Jean-Pierre, like most of the Warriors of the Blood, has some rough patches in his romantic past. Jean-Pierre is the youngest of all the Warriors - he's only a couple hundred years old. He ascended during the French Revolution when he was turned over to Robespierre by his wife. He loved her deeply and he never suspected that she would betray him. But she did and it has scarred his heart ever since. He still loves women... all women. He just can't love one woman. But, as the author states ad nauseum, the breh-hedden is a terrible master and will not be denied. Jean-Pierre gets a whiff of Fiona during one of the thwarted rescue attempts in Book 3 (To him, she smells like fresh baked, buttery croissants). From that point, Fiona becomes his everything and once she's rescued, he is elated but terrified. He doesn't think he can be with just one woman for the rest of his existence but Fiona's allure keeps bringing Jean-Pierre back and he keeps discovering all of these wonderful things to love about her.
Fiona is pretty great too. She's been a blood slave for over 100 years. And somehow she's survived, physically and mentally. But she also has a huge future ahead of her once she finally ascends. Fiona's telepathic abilities are off the charts and that becomes a clue as to what her destiny is. Fiona is also really brave. Because she was a captive for so long, she doesn't like the thought of being beholden to anyone ever again. So, of course, the thought of the breh-hedden is not a pleasant one for her. She occasionally feels like she's traded one prison for another one. Because she's so special, she must be protected but that protection feels to Fiona, like another cage, albeit a guilded one. Having said all of that, she's still exploring this thing with Jean-Pierre. It all makes her extremely uncomfortable but its her bravery that pushes her forward in these new experiences.
Together, Fiona and Jean-Pierre are awesome! She loves his body and compliments him on it all the time. It sounds like it would make her seem very shallow but somehow, it doesn't. She's just so entranced by his beauty that she can't help but remark on it. It helps that Jean-Pierre is always complimentary to Fiona so it ends up feeling like she's simply appreciating him and he seems to like it. Jean-Pierre is hilarious at times. He has such a great heart and a wonderful sense of humor. At one point, he and Fiona are having a conversation and he lightens it up by flexing his bicep when she makes a comment about it. It was so cute and funny!!
I don't know what else to say about this book. Yes, the book is terribly formulaic. And yes, it gets REALLY irritating that these people don't just give in to the breh-hedden and save themselves AND US some headaches. But in THIS book, it doesn't feel weird. It feels natural that Fiona wouldn't be interested in jumping into a relationship. It also seems natural that Jean-Pierre, a great lover of women, wouldn't really want to settle down. So here, unlike in book 3, it works. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a simple, fun, easy read. For sure.
Jean-Pierre and Fiona... ahhh! A match made in heaven!! Jean-Pierre is awesome! He's so sexy with his wavy, unruly blonde hair, sculpted cheekbones and super hot body. He's also a sweet guy and a considerate lover. LOL! Pretty much a dream guy, I'd say. Jean-Pierre, like most of the Warriors of the Blood, has some rough patches in his romantic past. Jean-Pierre is the youngest of all the Warriors - he's only a couple hundred years old. He ascended during the French Revolution when he was turned over to Robespierre by his wife. He loved her deeply and he never suspected that she would betray him. But she did and it has scarred his heart ever since. He still loves women... all women. He just can't love one woman. But, as the author states ad nauseum, the breh-hedden is a terrible master and will not be denied. Jean-Pierre gets a whiff of Fiona during one of the thwarted rescue attempts in Book 3 (To him, she smells like fresh baked, buttery croissants). From that point, Fiona becomes his everything and once she's rescued, he is elated but terrified. He doesn't think he can be with just one woman for the rest of his existence but Fiona's allure keeps bringing Jean-Pierre back and he keeps discovering all of these wonderful things to love about her.
Fiona is pretty great too. She's been a blood slave for over 100 years. And somehow she's survived, physically and mentally. But she also has a huge future ahead of her once she finally ascends. Fiona's telepathic abilities are off the charts and that becomes a clue as to what her destiny is. Fiona is also really brave. Because she was a captive for so long, she doesn't like the thought of being beholden to anyone ever again. So, of course, the thought of the breh-hedden is not a pleasant one for her. She occasionally feels like she's traded one prison for another one. Because she's so special, she must be protected but that protection feels to Fiona, like another cage, albeit a guilded one. Having said all of that, she's still exploring this thing with Jean-Pierre. It all makes her extremely uncomfortable but its her bravery that pushes her forward in these new experiences.
Together, Fiona and Jean-Pierre are awesome! She loves his body and compliments him on it all the time. It sounds like it would make her seem very shallow but somehow, it doesn't. She's just so entranced by his beauty that she can't help but remark on it. It helps that Jean-Pierre is always complimentary to Fiona so it ends up feeling like she's simply appreciating him and he seems to like it. Jean-Pierre is hilarious at times. He has such a great heart and a wonderful sense of humor. At one point, he and Fiona are having a conversation and he lightens it up by flexing his bicep when she makes a comment about it. It was so cute and funny!!
I don't know what else to say about this book. Yes, the book is terribly formulaic. And yes, it gets REALLY irritating that these people don't just give in to the breh-hedden and save themselves AND US some headaches. But in THIS book, it doesn't feel weird. It feels natural that Fiona wouldn't be interested in jumping into a relationship. It also seems natural that Jean-Pierre, a great lover of women, wouldn't really want to settle down. So here, unlike in book 3, it works. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a simple, fun, easy read. For sure.
March 11, 2012
This is getting better and better! I liked everything in this book. I don't need the "count the + and the - list" 'cuz I can't think of a "-" right now :D
PS: The next book... I predict FIREWORKS, lots and lots :D
PS: The next book... I predict FIREWORKS, lots and lots :D
March 5, 2012
As a blood slave to the bad guy vamps who are addicted to dying blood, Fiona was repeated drained to death and brought back to life again over and over for a hundred years. Now Fiona is free, but unwilling loose that freedom in any way, even to the beautiful warrior whose scent draws her since they are destined mates.
I wasn't completely hooked on Roane's series coming into Born of Ashes - I still have the second book sitting on the pile - but I decided to make a purchase to support my funky lonely only remaining local bookstore, the cover for this one is really stunning and the heroine's back story caught me when I read the first few pages.
Things I liked: I liked the gorgeous patient and oh so perfect (French!) leading man Jean-Paul who also has commitment issues, and I still love the idea of the kilted winged warriors (I think of them as 'angpires'), I was actually intrigued for a fair chunk of the book by the set up for the next pair Warrior Thorne and Margarite, the seer who has been imprisoned in a convent for a hundred years (with only visits by Thorne for quickies to break up the monotony).
Things that I didn't like: I really do not like the scent thing that identifies mates in this series and Fiona and Jean-Paul make notice of the other's scent every single time they are together - his is coffee and hers is pastries and neither is the least bit sexy to me. 'Potions' have always struck me as cheesy - angpires dispense these during love making with their fangs - I cringe every time I read that word. I hated description of the bad guy and his evil girlfriend playing with their 'food'. Also I ended up really disgusted with both Thorne and Margarite - him for wanting her to remain imprisoned so that he could keep her for himself and her for wanting to jump anything with a pulse (okay to be fair there was >one< exception) - they ended being the nail in coffin to any faint temptation I might have had of reading the next book.
So the bottom line on this latest entry to Roane's Guardians of Ascension was that were things I liked but more things I didn't and the end result was that Born of Ashes was okay but draggy - even if you don't count the timeouts for sex scenes - and the next up starring pair left me with absolutely no interest in reading any of the others in the series.
I wasn't completely hooked on Roane's series coming into Born of Ashes - I still have the second book sitting on the pile - but I decided to make a purchase to support my funky lonely only remaining local bookstore, the cover for this one is really stunning and the heroine's back story caught me when I read the first few pages.
Things I liked: I liked the gorgeous patient and oh so perfect (French!) leading man Jean-Paul who also has commitment issues, and I still love the idea of the kilted winged warriors (I think of them as 'angpires'), I was actually intrigued for a fair chunk of the book by the set up for the next pair Warrior Thorne and Margarite, the seer who has been imprisoned in a convent for a hundred years (with only visits by Thorne for quickies to break up the monotony).
Things that I didn't like: I really do not like the scent thing that identifies mates in this series and Fiona and Jean-Paul make notice of the other's scent every single time they are together - his is coffee and hers is pastries and neither is the least bit sexy to me. 'Potions' have always struck me as cheesy - angpires dispense these during love making with their fangs - I cringe every time I read that word. I hated description of the bad guy and his evil girlfriend playing with their 'food'. Also I ended up really disgusted with both Thorne and Margarite - him for wanting her to remain imprisoned so that he could keep her for himself and her for wanting to jump anything with a pulse (okay to be fair there was >one< exception) - they ended being the nail in coffin to any faint temptation I might have had of reading the next book.
So the bottom line on this latest entry to Roane's Guardians of Ascension was that were things I liked but more things I didn't and the end result was that Born of Ashes was okay but draggy - even if you don't count the timeouts for sex scenes - and the next up starring pair left me with absolutely no interest in reading any of the others in the series.
February 15, 2012
This was a really sweet story! I thought it would be a bit better though. Maybe because I had such an amazing time with the previous reads that I just assumed all of the rest would be just as good. I guess not all the books in a series can be top winners. Still this is one of the best series I have started for a long time.
My only problem with this book (the reason for why I'm not giving 5 stars to it) was that I kept expecting more form the main characters. Probably because the last heroes and heroines had been the best second Earth had to offer. Well, this 2 had power but not much. That made me loose a bit of interest.
But apart from that everything was perfect. The romance was so sweet and tender and there just was some HAWT chemistry between this two. WOW. So good, I just couldn't stop reading. Another mayor positive aspect was that we get to read a lot about the couple once they finally decide to be together (not spoilers here as there isn't a book in this genre where the main characters don't end together,lol), we get to see what happens next, after the HEA! I LOVED THAT! I usually see those abrupt endings (WHICH I HATE!)that feel so empty and leave you all frustrated. Don't you hate when you get those endings were you have one billion freaking questions left to answer? Well, this was definitely not the case. I ended the read feeling very happy and in peace,lol.
This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites and I just wish I hadn't started it until all the rest of the books get publish so I didn't have to wait so long for another one to get release!
My only problem with this book (the reason for why I'm not giving 5 stars to it) was that I kept expecting more form the main characters. Probably because the last heroes and heroines had been the best second Earth had to offer. Well, this 2 had power but not much. That made me loose a bit of interest.
But apart from that everything was perfect. The romance was so sweet and tender and there just was some HAWT chemistry between this two. WOW. So good, I just couldn't stop reading. Another mayor positive aspect was that we get to read a lot about the couple once they finally decide to be together (not spoilers here as there isn't a book in this genre where the main characters don't end together,lol), we get to see what happens next, after the HEA! I LOVED THAT! I usually see those abrupt endings (WHICH I HATE!)that feel so empty and leave you all frustrated. Don't you hate when you get those endings were you have one billion freaking questions left to answer? Well, this was definitely not the case. I ended the read feeling very happy and in peace,lol.
This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites and I just wish I hadn't started it until all the rest of the books get publish so I didn't have to wait so long for another one to get release!
May 13, 2016
Meet Fiona Gaines. She was a blood slave for over 100 years and once rescued is determined to shut down ALL the slave facilities and destroy Rith, the evil death vampire in charge of the blood slave program. And Jean-Pierre Robillard, Warrior of the Blood and Fiona's guardian and breh-hedden (soul mate).
Fiona has her issues with being "kept" and Jean-Pierre has "commitment" issues (his first love brutally betrayed him). Seeing them come to terms with their pasts and futures is fun and exciting. I loved these two together.
This book gives you some closure to a sub-plot or two which is great yet leaves plenty on going for more fun and adventure. I'm looking for to the next book - Thorne is going to run Marguerite to the ground but he's going to have a major fight on his hands. Fun times ahead!
Fiona has her issues with being "kept" and Jean-Pierre has "commitment" issues (his first love brutally betrayed him). Seeing them come to terms with their pasts and futures is fun and exciting. I loved these two together.
This book gives you some closure to a sub-plot or two which is great yet leaves plenty on going for more fun and adventure. I'm looking for to the next book - Thorne is going to run Marguerite to the ground but he's going to have a major fight on his hands. Fun times ahead!
March 13, 2013
The plots and sub-plots never quit! The characters were 'real' and full of personality! Some characters from previous books were better defined and filled out. Great read, hard to put down! Very strong female personalities.
February 3, 2012
Okay, so I just started this and I'm only 150 pages in, but I have to say how I absolutely adore this series and the writing and the people and.... :)
Oh man, wonderful books. I can't decide what series I like better; Black Dagger Brotherhood or the Guardians of Ascension. I love the tension of the war, Endelle the absolutely eccentric leader, the distinct variety of the warriors, the powerful women, the entirely new world of powers and healing and folding and telepathy... I would love to live in this world! Loved the jealous fight between Parisa and Marguerite, hilarious. Jean-Pierre's dick measuring contest with Gideon. I can't wait for more...
Oh man, wonderful books. I can't decide what series I like better; Black Dagger Brotherhood or the Guardians of Ascension. I love the tension of the war, Endelle the absolutely eccentric leader, the distinct variety of the warriors, the powerful women, the entirely new world of powers and healing and folding and telepathy... I would love to live in this world! Loved the jealous fight between Parisa and Marguerite, hilarious. Jean-Pierre's dick measuring contest with Gideon. I can't wait for more...
January 11, 2012
So not my favorite. I really couldn't connect with Fiona. I didn't like her throughout the entire book. Also, Endelle has a brand new catch- phrase that I didn't care for. On the plus side, we get a lot of Thorne this time around and making me more anxious for his upcoming book. We also get a new villian which was refreshing and the normal amount of action and not so much with the other fellas - I missed them.
July 17, 2013
I'm noticing a trend that is really getting old. The whole "I can't open my heart to love again and the fear of being trapped" is in every single story and its very cliche. There are some good parts to this story. Not a big fan of this one. It was a bit too predictable and it pissed me off. I literally stopped reading at some parts. Not a big fan of the writing technique either. I did get confused and lost at times that I had to read the sentence over and over. Overall it was just ok.
November 27, 2015
As always guardians of the Ascension does not disappoint . Beautiful story and a lot of other characters coming forward. I loved Fiona's character. I think she is the most sensitive female lead from all because God she cried a lot but bear with her she has her reasons. The description of everything as always the best. Hope Endelle has her own story can't wait to know more about her
June 20, 2012
Jean Pierre and Fiona Gaines story..
After tangerine and sage from the previous book, prepare to smell croissant and coffee in this book, folks! (No, I'm not talking about food!)
After tangerine and sage from the previous book, prepare to smell croissant and coffee in this book, folks! (No, I'm not talking about food!)
January 13, 2012
Endelle, omg Endelle.
She better get a story because she deserves it.
She better get a story because she deserves it.
November 30, 2020
oh my god.
It's like this author read a book called "How to Out-French the French," took ALL the stereotypes she could find and armed herself with Google Translate before writing this book.
Jean-Pierre (I'm surprised she didn't name him Pepe Le Pew) utters such French phrases as "Bon" and "Mon Dieu" while his fated mate smells of butter croissants. (BECAUSE HE'S FRENCH -- get it???)
I'm surprised she didn't have him walking around with a baguette for a dick shouting Sacrebleu every time he couldn't find his beret or striped shirt.
I'm terrified to see how she describes other cultures and ethnicities ....
It's like this author read a book called "How to Out-French the French," took ALL the stereotypes she could find and armed herself with Google Translate before writing this book.
Jean-Pierre (I'm surprised she didn't name him Pepe Le Pew) utters such French phrases as "Bon" and "Mon Dieu" while his fated mate smells of butter croissants. (BECAUSE HE'S FRENCH -- get it???)
I'm surprised she didn't have him walking around with a baguette for a dick shouting Sacrebleu every time he couldn't find his beret or striped shirt.
I'm terrified to see how she describes other cultures and ethnicities ....
July 31, 2017
Another good book in the series with some great action. My biggest complaint of this book is the ending dragged on and on and on. I realize, the author was setting up the next book, but it took forever after the climax of the story.
January 20, 2018
High Quality
This series is upholding the high quality I’ve come to expect from Caris Roane. Well thought out plot and characters you care about. I’m really enjoying the series and excited to read the next book!
This series is upholding the high quality I’ve come to expect from Caris Roane. Well thought out plot and characters you care about. I’m really enjoying the series and excited to read the next book!
October 15, 2017
This series is getting better and better! This was probably around a 4.5 but I feel as though there was just something small missing that I can’t figure out which is why it wasn’t a full 5
March 7, 2019
Once again I have found a good book in this story. I found it hard to put it down until the end.
June 11, 2019
awesome series cant put down onto the next
March 29, 2018
This is an amazing book. I absolutely LOVED it!!
September 15, 2017
I do enjoy the fantastical world that CR has created and her interesting take on vampires. It is a fun and entertaining escape, just the thing I look for when reading a romance-paranormal story. Fiona was certainly a strong heroine for all that she went through as a blood-slave for over a century. It was completely understandable that she'd want to keep her new found freedom. Jean-Pierre was everything she needed -- patient, kind, and understanding. The one thing that I really didn't like was when JP thought about ending things with Fiona and wistfully thought of going back to entertaining women at the Blood & Bite. That rubbed me the wrong way, and again made me wonder how strong the breh-hedden could be. Other than that, I really liked this story. It had action, suspense, passion, and sexy vampire warriors.
May 4, 2015
Enter a hidden world of winged vampire warriors—and the women they are sworn protect. Born of Ashes is the fourth breathtaking novel in paranormal romance author Caris Roane's Guardians of Ascension series…
For years, she was kept as a human slave—one of seven unwilling "blood donors" for the death vampires who thirst for absolute power. Now, Fiona is a free woman, haunted by her memories of being strapped to a gurney, drained of blood, then revived at the last moment. She lives to avenge her captors—but only one warrior can help her…
Jean-Pierre has lived and fought for over two-hundred years. He knows the triumph of slaying a death vampire, but has never known anything like the feelings that arise when he becomes Fiona's guardian. Her beauty, her pain, her passion—and her growing power—consume his senses. Now the warrior must draw his sword once more—and fight the gates of hell itself—for love.
ReviewAcclaim for the Guardians of Ascension series by Caris Raone…
“Roane’s world building is complex and intriguing, and in addition to her compelling protagonists, she serves up a slew of secondary characters begging to be explored further. The Guardians of Ascension is a series with epic potential!” –Romantic Times (4 ½ stars)
“A great story with a really different take on vampires. This is one book that is sure to be a hit with readers who love paranormals. Fans of J.R. Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood series are sure to love this one too.” –Red Roses for Authors Blog
"Ascension is like wandering in a field of a creative and colorful dream. There are many interesting, formidable, terrifying, beautiful and unique images. They surround and envelop you in a story as old as time.” –Barnes and Noble’s Heart to Heart Romance Blog
“A super urban romantic fantasy in which the audience will believe in the vampires and the world of Ascension…fast-paced…thrilling.” — Alternative Worlds
“Incredibly creative, Ascension takes readers to another level as you learn about two earths, vampires, ancient warriors, and a new twist on love. I felt like I was on a roller coaster ride, climbing until I hit the very top only to come crashing down at lightning speed. Once you pick this book up, clear off your calendar because you won’t be able to put it down. Best book I have read all year.” –SingleTitles.com
“Tightly plotted and smoking hot…a fantastic read.”—Fresh Fiction
From the Back Cover
Enter a hidden world of winged vampire warriors—and the women they are sworn protect…
HELL HATH NO FURY
For years, she was kept as a human slave—one of seven unwilling “blood donors” for the death vampires who thirst for absolute power. Now, Fiona is a free woman, haunted by her memories of being strapped to a gurney, drained of blood, then revived at the last moment. She lives to avenge her captors—but only one warrior can help her…
LOVE KNOWS NO BOUNDS
Jean-Pierre has lived and fought for over two-hundred years. He knows the triumph of slaying a death vampire, but has never known anything like the feelings that arise when he becomes Fiona’s guardian. Her beauty, her pain, her passion—and her growing power—consume his senses. Now the warrior must draw his sword once more…and fight the gates of hell itself—for love.
“A thrilling series! I can’t get enough of these sexy warriors!�� —New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter
May 24, 2013
I haven't reviewed of Roane's previous Guardian of Ascension books, because I wanted to get a better feel of the series before really putting down my thoughts about it. I do have to say that I enjoyed this book far more than I enjoyed the other ones, but I haven't figured out exactly why that is. I think a lot of it was because Jean-Pierre didn't come as jealous as the other three when they were taken over by the breh hedden. He had his moments, but it wasn't over the top like in the other three books. It was almost too much that it kind of took me out of the story, but with Jean-Pierre it was just enough Alpha to make the deepest darkest part of me swoon.
So in this novel, Fiona has all but been cured of her 100 year captivity of a blood slave, and is now working with the Militia to find Rith's other facilities and rescue the victims of his blood harvesting. I have to say that the idea of how dying blood is creating was pretty ingenious. It was horrifying and nauseating, but I have to give it up to Roane for creating those feelings. These books do have a very big "anti-female" theme to it, between Rith and Greaves and that sick bastard Stannett, and I think Caris does a very nice job of showing how the females in these books are no longer going to stand for it.
However, the fact that after only five months, Fiona was all but cured, was very unbelievable. I understand that Caris couldn't have jumped too far ahead in the story without screwing things up in her time line, but I still would have liked to see Fiona deal with having been in captivity for so long. I wanted to see her struggle with being around all these people, and having to build that trust with those surrounding her and even with men period. I did like that her and JP actually dated for five months, getting to know each other, learning about each other before even doing anything about the breh hedden. Their love story was believable because it was more than this mythical bonding thing. It was them as people falling in love. Yeah, the fact that they were each other's breh's helped, but they genuinely cared for each other before giving into the more intimate acts of their relationships. I wish we had gotten to see more about Jean-Pierre's personality or his previous life, but I guess I'll take what I can get.
In this book, we finally meet Marguerite, and I can't say that I'm too impressed. I'll have to read the next book to get a better feel of her. I just think she's a bit too extreme for me, but we'll see. Maybe I just like Thorne a lot and he deserves someone who doesn't lie to him to for her own gain, especially after he kept her a secret for so long.
I do have to agree with other readers that Roane can become rather repetitive with her stuff, but some writers are like that. I do like that she toned down the description of the smells or mentioned the smells in this book. We get it, they smell their scents when they're aroused. I do have to say that her sex scenes are written rather well, and the sex scenes in this book were some of my favorites. Big thumbs up to Ms. Author on that one.
This book isn't original in the slightest on some themes, but her world is engaging and I'm interested to see how far she takes these warriors before the good guys win.
So in this novel, Fiona has all but been cured of her 100 year captivity of a blood slave, and is now working with the Militia to find Rith's other facilities and rescue the victims of his blood harvesting. I have to say that the idea of how dying blood is creating was pretty ingenious. It was horrifying and nauseating, but I have to give it up to Roane for creating those feelings. These books do have a very big "anti-female" theme to it, between Rith and Greaves and that sick bastard Stannett, and I think Caris does a very nice job of showing how the females in these books are no longer going to stand for it.
However, the fact that after only five months, Fiona was all but cured, was very unbelievable. I understand that Caris couldn't have jumped too far ahead in the story without screwing things up in her time line, but I still would have liked to see Fiona deal with having been in captivity for so long. I wanted to see her struggle with being around all these people, and having to build that trust with those surrounding her and even with men period. I did like that her and JP actually dated for five months, getting to know each other, learning about each other before even doing anything about the breh hedden. Their love story was believable because it was more than this mythical bonding thing. It was them as people falling in love. Yeah, the fact that they were each other's breh's helped, but they genuinely cared for each other before giving into the more intimate acts of their relationships. I wish we had gotten to see more about Jean-Pierre's personality or his previous life, but I guess I'll take what I can get.
In this book, we finally meet Marguerite, and I can't say that I'm too impressed. I'll have to read the next book to get a better feel of her. I just think she's a bit too extreme for me, but we'll see. Maybe I just like Thorne a lot and he deserves someone who doesn't lie to him to for her own gain, especially after he kept her a secret for so long.
I do have to agree with other readers that Roane can become rather repetitive with her stuff, but some writers are like that. I do like that she toned down the description of the smells or mentioned the smells in this book. We get it, they smell their scents when they're aroused. I do have to say that her sex scenes are written rather well, and the sex scenes in this book were some of my favorites. Big thumbs up to Ms. Author on that one.
This book isn't original in the slightest on some themes, but her world is engaging and I'm interested to see how far she takes these warriors before the good guys win.
January 29, 2012
In the Ascension Series, Caris Roane is creating something that just gets better with each book. It astounds me that someone can take snippets of modern culture, add a bit of legend and lore and then create this wonderful world. The Ascension Series is about more than a world in the throes of change, about more a world fighting to survive. It is about one world and all it’s dimensions. About fighting evil and yet not always knowing if what you are doing is working. It’s about the bad guys looking better than the good guys.. it’s about politics and corruption and bureaucrats and how far people will go to fight evil.
Born of Ashes is the fourth book in this absolutely amazing series and yes it is the best so far. It seems Ms Roane is riding a wave and it is no where near hitting the shore.. I hope it has yet to peak. In Born of Ashes we return to Second Earth and the battle against Greaves, Fiona having been rescued from her status as the oldest blood slave, living or dead, is committed to finding all of Rith’s (evil minion of Greaves) slave holdings and destroying them. The rest of her time has been spent in reconnecting with the daughter she lost and had long thought dead. She has no time for such things as the Breh-Hedden (that “mythological” connection that only a few Ascenders have ever obtained), which to her mind was just another form of enslavement. No choice, forced attraction.. undeniable and unreal. The problem is she is crazy about Jean-Pierre, the Warrior who has been assigned as her guardian and who just happens to be her Breh-Hedden. The problem with the Breh-Hedden is that it matches souls, more or less so even while the individuals involved insist upon fighting it.. claiming that it traps them and they have no free will.. they fit. The couples are not destined that implies that they will meet.. but they are the right counterparts for each other..
*********************************************************************************
Revenge, mayhem, obsession, love, friendship are the main themes in this book and that is just with the good guys. It is a compelling, fascinating, intriguing and multi layered wonder of words. With each page comes a new twist, with each solution comes a new problem. People that are supposed to be serving good, those that are not considered evil, have agendas.. power, control... and then comes family. I like that this book really speaks on family connections. Thorne’s sister, Allyson and Kerrick’s baby, Fiona’s Daughter, Son-in-Law and grandchildren..
There is so much to see and read in this book it virtually surrounds the senses.. while all that power is being displayed and control is fought over, the delightful decadence of some of the scenes sent shivers up my spine. Sensual lovemaking scenes.. where desire and need collide.. Powerful individuals who maintain control of their worlds learn to let go and let love.
Do I recommend this book? In case you wonder? Oh yeah.. Ms Roane has set her bar high..
Shauni
To Read this review in full go to Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
Born of Ashes is the fourth book in this absolutely amazing series and yes it is the best so far. It seems Ms Roane is riding a wave and it is no where near hitting the shore.. I hope it has yet to peak. In Born of Ashes we return to Second Earth and the battle against Greaves, Fiona having been rescued from her status as the oldest blood slave, living or dead, is committed to finding all of Rith’s (evil minion of Greaves) slave holdings and destroying them. The rest of her time has been spent in reconnecting with the daughter she lost and had long thought dead. She has no time for such things as the Breh-Hedden (that “mythological” connection that only a few Ascenders have ever obtained), which to her mind was just another form of enslavement. No choice, forced attraction.. undeniable and unreal. The problem is she is crazy about Jean-Pierre, the Warrior who has been assigned as her guardian and who just happens to be her Breh-Hedden. The problem with the Breh-Hedden is that it matches souls, more or less so even while the individuals involved insist upon fighting it.. claiming that it traps them and they have no free will.. they fit. The couples are not destined that implies that they will meet.. but they are the right counterparts for each other..
*********************************************************************************
Revenge, mayhem, obsession, love, friendship are the main themes in this book and that is just with the good guys. It is a compelling, fascinating, intriguing and multi layered wonder of words. With each page comes a new twist, with each solution comes a new problem. People that are supposed to be serving good, those that are not considered evil, have agendas.. power, control... and then comes family. I like that this book really speaks on family connections. Thorne’s sister, Allyson and Kerrick’s baby, Fiona’s Daughter, Son-in-Law and grandchildren..
There is so much to see and read in this book it virtually surrounds the senses.. while all that power is being displayed and control is fought over, the delightful decadence of some of the scenes sent shivers up my spine. Sensual lovemaking scenes.. where desire and need collide.. Powerful individuals who maintain control of their worlds learn to let go and let love.
Do I recommend this book? In case you wonder? Oh yeah.. Ms Roane has set her bar high..
Shauni
To Read this review in full go to Bodice Rippers, Femme Fatales and Fantasy
December 9, 2012
I knew I would enjoy Fiona and Jean-Pierre’s contribution to this series. Thus far it is my favorite of the Ascension books. I liked Fiona’s character from the beginning. She is strong willed, she knows what she wants, she is a go getter, but her abusive years as a blood slave has left her with some vulnerabilities. She had some obstacles to overcome. Her triumphs and compassion make her a wonderful read though.
Jean-Pierre is the gentle giant that Fiona needs in her life. He seems to know what she needs before she ever realizes that she is lacking that something. They are very well matched. I love what he found from his past at the end. He deserved that so much.
I found myself loving every single moment of Marguerite’s page time. This gal is a firecracker with a short fuse. I cannot wait to get to her book! I am dying to read more interactions between her and Endelle.
I think Endelle may just get her a bestie out of Thorne’s girl.
I’ve found that the World of Ascension books are heavy. I say that meaning they are fast paced, never a dull moment, but I can’t just sit down and storm through the book. Most books of this length I could read in a day. I can’t with this series. I never lose interest, but I find myself having to take a break from all that is going on in the pages. I can’t say this is a bad thing, but I wish I could just read them how I am used to. I want to know what is going to happen next. That is one of the wonderful things with this series. There is always something going on.
The insane amount of times that gd is used in this series as a whole is absurd. I can handle profanity, but that specific word is like nails across a chalk board to me. I think gd was used more in this book than the previous books in the series. That is my largest complaint about the series, and my only complaint with this book.
Book #4 in a series that must be read in order
Jean-Pierre is the gentle giant that Fiona needs in her life. He seems to know what she needs before she ever realizes that she is lacking that something. They are very well matched. I love what he found from his past at the end. He deserved that so much.
I found myself loving every single moment of Marguerite’s page time. This gal is a firecracker with a short fuse. I cannot wait to get to her book! I am dying to read more interactions between her and Endelle.
I think Endelle may just get her a bestie out of Thorne’s girl.
I’ve found that the World of Ascension books are heavy. I say that meaning they are fast paced, never a dull moment, but I can’t just sit down and storm through the book. Most books of this length I could read in a day. I can’t with this series. I never lose interest, but I find myself having to take a break from all that is going on in the pages. I can’t say this is a bad thing, but I wish I could just read them how I am used to. I want to know what is going to happen next. That is one of the wonderful things with this series. There is always something going on.
The insane amount of times that gd is used in this series as a whole is absurd. I can handle profanity, but that specific word is like nails across a chalk board to me. I think gd was used more in this book than the previous books in the series. That is my largest complaint about the series, and my only complaint with this book.
Book #4 in a series that must be read in order
February 15, 2012
some spoilers. don't want - don't read.
Jean-Pierre has proved to be my fav of this authors main characters, what with his heart, "knows just what to say and when to say it", his amazing tree/stream home.. and a few others. His part had me giving this novel in the set an additional star. The speed in which Fiona came through her 100 years of torment was a bit unbelievable, but that's my humble opinion.
This book is still a copy of JR Ward work. It is also very repetitive.. again, but in kindness much less so than the three prior. There is also still the habit of detailed explanations in the middle of scenes that really took you out of the 'mood' of that scene, these things would have been better shared at another time/part of the story or in some cases not at all - the reader could easily guess or put two and two together. You'll know what I mean when you read it.
I was disappointed in Thornes character. I always thought of him as mysterious and attractive from what you get of him from the other books, but this one killed it. It only showed he's just another oversized, uninteresting warrior, as his character implied himself he couldn't believe anyone followed/looked-up to him. I was wanting him to be deep and intelligent.. .. I really, really don't like his 'woman' either. She's obnoxious and unlikeable in every way shown to date. I'll most likely skim through these two characters parts in 'their' book, which I believe is next in line? I just want to keep up with the storyline (which is fascinating) so will most likely find a library to rent it from for that one.
This was my fav of all four to date.
Jean-Pierre has proved to be my fav of this authors main characters, what with his heart, "knows just what to say and when to say it", his amazing tree/stream home.. and a few others. His part had me giving this novel in the set an additional star. The speed in which Fiona came through her 100 years of torment was a bit unbelievable, but that's my humble opinion.
This book is still a copy of JR Ward work. It is also very repetitive.. again, but in kindness much less so than the three prior. There is also still the habit of detailed explanations in the middle of scenes that really took you out of the 'mood' of that scene, these things would have been better shared at another time/part of the story or in some cases not at all - the reader could easily guess or put two and two together. You'll know what I mean when you read it.
I was disappointed in Thornes character. I always thought of him as mysterious and attractive from what you get of him from the other books, but this one killed it. It only showed he's just another oversized, uninteresting warrior, as his character implied himself he couldn't believe anyone followed/looked-up to him. I was wanting him to be deep and intelligent.. .. I really, really don't like his 'woman' either. She's obnoxious and unlikeable in every way shown to date. I'll most likely skim through these two characters parts in 'their' book, which I believe is next in line? I just want to keep up with the storyline (which is fascinating) so will most likely find a library to rent it from for that one.
This was my fav of all four to date.
February 17, 2013
Overall
This is the sweet and softer side of this paranormal romance series. Jean Pierre and his breh, Fiona start slowly and tepidly into their romance. Of all the pairs, they take their time to get to know one another and go on Fiona’s allotted dates. Jean Pierre is the most wonderful, beautiful and understanding man ever (if that’s the type you like - which btw, I don’t).
Fiona is a recovering blood slave and is revealed to be an obsidian flame; one third of a triad of women with immense power.
Couple
Jean Pierre is the perfect man. There, I sad it. He’s completely understanding, patient, beautiful and he’s got a French accent to boot. The only problem is, he’s so perfect he’s boring. He can do no wrong. Even his womanizing ways is faulted because of his wife’s betrayal during the French Revolution.
Fiona is a recovering blood slave, traumatized but eager to start her new life. She’s extremely focused on her mission to free the rest of the blood slaves - except that takes a back seat once she’s required to embrace her emerging powers.
Together, they are the most boring couple ever. Sure, she has a secret fantasy to tie up her man but that’s as exciting as it gets.
Is it me or does each couple just fall into this pit of monotony. Find their breh, obsess over each other except they hate their situation and fight it to the death. Something happens and they realize shit - it’s ME, I’m screwed up somehow and I should embrace this breh-ness. SO, of course they complete it and it’s a power-up and the tide of war slowly moves in their favor.
http://whateversu.tumblr.com
This is the sweet and softer side of this paranormal romance series. Jean Pierre and his breh, Fiona start slowly and tepidly into their romance. Of all the pairs, they take their time to get to know one another and go on Fiona’s allotted dates. Jean Pierre is the most wonderful, beautiful and understanding man ever (if that’s the type you like - which btw, I don’t).
Fiona is a recovering blood slave and is revealed to be an obsidian flame; one third of a triad of women with immense power.
Couple
Jean Pierre is the perfect man. There, I sad it. He’s completely understanding, patient, beautiful and he’s got a French accent to boot. The only problem is, he’s so perfect he’s boring. He can do no wrong. Even his womanizing ways is faulted because of his wife’s betrayal during the French Revolution.
Fiona is a recovering blood slave, traumatized but eager to start her new life. She’s extremely focused on her mission to free the rest of the blood slaves - except that takes a back seat once she’s required to embrace her emerging powers.
Together, they are the most boring couple ever. Sure, she has a secret fantasy to tie up her man but that’s as exciting as it gets.
Is it me or does each couple just fall into this pit of monotony. Find their breh, obsess over each other except they hate their situation and fight it to the death. Something happens and they realize shit - it’s ME, I’m screwed up somehow and I should embrace this breh-ness. SO, of course they complete it and it’s a power-up and the tide of war slowly moves in their favor.
http://whateversu.tumblr.com
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