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Threads of Ash: South
The weeping blight took everything from Yaveta, except her life. After the enigmatic warrior, Wulfren, rescues her from the twisted remains of her people, she longs to start over somewhere else untouched by blight. But the wider world is a dangerous place, and the darkness has spread far beyond her village's borders. With only Wulfren's axe separating her from death, Yaveta must put her faith into the northman, secretive as he is strong, and together they will discover just how deeply the sickness runs.
Unknown Binding
Published May 24, 2024
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About the author
S.H. Cooper
19 books134 followersS.H. Cooper is a Florida based, multi-genre author with a focus on horror and fantasy. Her titles include the Victorian gothic novella, INHERITING HER GHOSTS, the cosmic horror novella, THE FESTERING ONES, and the YA fantasy novel, THE KNIGHT'S DAUGHTER, in addition to three short story collections and the horror comedy podcast, Calling Darkness. She is also a regular contributor to the award winning anthology series, The NoSleep Podcast. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband, pets, and a cup of Earl Grey.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 14, 2024
Review originally on
JamReads
Threads of Ash: South is the first book in the dark fantasy duology The Frayed Realm, written by S. H. Cooper. An interesting proposal that transports us to a world in decadence, where most of the people have succumbed to the plague, and with touches of horror in between action scenes in a journey of exploration that creates many questions.
Yavetta's life was shattered by the weeping blight; she saw how all her known ones succumbed to the plague that devastated the kingdom of Niranthym. After falling prey to the Weepers on the streets, she's rescued by a mysterious Northman called Wulfren; they manage to escape the city, and reluctantly, accepts to take her to the next city, where Yavetta's aunt lives. What they don't know is that this will only mark the start of a journey through the land of Niranthym, discovering the results of the plague.
S. H. Cooper takes us on a journey through a post-apocalyptic environment, a place where the plague has wreaked havoc and dangers are waiting for you behind any corner; an enigmatic world which is in decay. We don't get too much information about what it is happening, just about the consequences, which are reflected on the encounters our pair of characters have on the road.
Yavetta and Wulfren form a complicated duo, as their personalities will crash in some moments due to their differences: the hardened Northman and the naive girl who hasn't travelled outside her town. With a few pages, we can appreciate the growth of Yavetta, partly forced due to the circumstances.
Pacing is quite fast, with the author making a good use of the few pages she used to tell us this first part of the story. Horror elements are derivate of the situation of the world, and the combat scenes are quite spectacular.
If you are looking for a short but intense novel, a reluctant duo and a world in decadence á la Dark Souls, Threads of Ash: South is the perfect piece for you. I can't wait to see how Cooper will continue with Yavetta's story.
Threads of Ash: South is the first book in the dark fantasy duology The Frayed Realm, written by S. H. Cooper. An interesting proposal that transports us to a world in decadence, where most of the people have succumbed to the plague, and with touches of horror in between action scenes in a journey of exploration that creates many questions.
Yavetta's life was shattered by the weeping blight; she saw how all her known ones succumbed to the plague that devastated the kingdom of Niranthym. After falling prey to the Weepers on the streets, she's rescued by a mysterious Northman called Wulfren; they manage to escape the city, and reluctantly, accepts to take her to the next city, where Yavetta's aunt lives. What they don't know is that this will only mark the start of a journey through the land of Niranthym, discovering the results of the plague.
S. H. Cooper takes us on a journey through a post-apocalyptic environment, a place where the plague has wreaked havoc and dangers are waiting for you behind any corner; an enigmatic world which is in decay. We don't get too much information about what it is happening, just about the consequences, which are reflected on the encounters our pair of characters have on the road.
Yavetta and Wulfren form a complicated duo, as their personalities will crash in some moments due to their differences: the hardened Northman and the naive girl who hasn't travelled outside her town. With a few pages, we can appreciate the growth of Yavetta, partly forced due to the circumstances.
Pacing is quite fast, with the author making a good use of the few pages she used to tell us this first part of the story. Horror elements are derivate of the situation of the world, and the combat scenes are quite spectacular.
If you are looking for a short but intense novel, a reluctant duo and a world in decadence á la Dark Souls, Threads of Ash: South is the perfect piece for you. I can't wait to see how Cooper will continue with Yavetta's story.
May 31, 2024
Incredible!
This book is so good! From the moment I met Yaveta, I was invested in her story. What a dark world she lived in. Despite the many horrors, she endured with strength and heart. I loved her character.
Wulfren was a wonderful character too. I loved his horse, Svir. Wulfren’s relationship with Yaveta was well done. Thrown together in desperate circumstances, but unlikely allies, it was hard to know at times if Yaveta could trust Wulfren.
The world building was incredible and the things that they encountered! The imagination of the author! Such a wonderful blend of fantasy and horror. Thrilling and chilling in equal measure. Each scene building the world, revealing the characters, and furthering the plot in a most satisfying way.
I didn’t want this book to end. I hope I don’t have long to wait for The Frayed Kingdom Book 2!
This book is so good! From the moment I met Yaveta, I was invested in her story. What a dark world she lived in. Despite the many horrors, she endured with strength and heart. I loved her character.
Wulfren was a wonderful character too. I loved his horse, Svir. Wulfren’s relationship with Yaveta was well done. Thrown together in desperate circumstances, but unlikely allies, it was hard to know at times if Yaveta could trust Wulfren.
The world building was incredible and the things that they encountered! The imagination of the author! Such a wonderful blend of fantasy and horror. Thrilling and chilling in equal measure. Each scene building the world, revealing the characters, and furthering the plot in a most satisfying way.
I didn’t want this book to end. I hope I don’t have long to wait for The Frayed Kingdom Book 2!
August 27, 2024
This was a fun read! Dark and creepy at times, but with two very different characters trying to survive the horrors of their new world and each other. While Yaveta at times made me groan with her stubbornness, Wulfen wasn't any better 🤣 which makes them a perfect couple to travel together.
April 8, 2024
*Huge thanks to S.H. Cooper for sending me a digital ARC!*
You know, it’s not uncommon for any of us to scroll through any of the various social media pages we all have and come across the argument that a writer should only write in a singular genre. That they should pick a trope and not go beyond it. That they should pick their lane and stay in it.
Yet, almost without fail, the authors I love reading most AND the authors who continue to push the envelope and advance every genre are those that hop back and forth like an elementary kid playing hopscotch.
I’ve read a number of S.H. Cooper’s books in the past – I was even honored to previously blurb one of her standout releases – and time and time again, Cooper crafts stories that are masterful. Saying that, I’ve not yet read any of her fantasy releases, so, when I saw her putting out a call for reviews, I quickly sent her a DM. This one sounded fantastic and that cover art had me sold.
I had no idea what I was going to be in for, but I was excited to dive in!
What I liked: The story begins with a bang. We’re thrown into the mix of a town under siege. A ‘disease’ known as the weeping blight is sweeping the land and teen/young woman Yaveta is trying to flee. Soon enough, while chased, she encounters a man, a northerner that they refer to as milkskin’s that is armored and ready to fight. The man’s name is Wulfren and together they flee, heading south.
From there, it’s a gripping mix of fantasy/horror and comradery dynamics. Wulfren is quiet, brooding and secretive. Yaveta is young, questioning and innocent. She’s trusting of all and because of this, we see that openness continually put them into harms way, even as Wulfren warns her about what is going to happen next.
As they continue on towards the town of Orkeas, where Wulfren is to meet someone and where Yaveta’s aunt lives, Cooper works her magic by writing a fantasy novel with the sensibilities of pulse-pounding horror. There is no bloat here. We don’t get thirty pages dedicated to describe what it is they’re eating for dinner or pages and pages of purple prose showcasing the details of the land and the hills around it. No, Cooper keeps it sleek, streamlined and the reader is richly rewarded for that. It creates an atmosphere throughout of ever growing tension. If things are bad in the outskirt areas, just what awaits them in the next town.
And what does await them is fantastic and a phenomenally executed mix of fantasy-horror creature creation. I won’t spoil it here, but Cooper has outdone herself with the world building and the figures and things that inhabit it. Even when we get brief moments of backstory or historical information, its to the point and solidly shared.
Once we get to the ‘final destination,’ where we all know this won’t be the ending, because A) it’s a fantasy book and B) I mean it says it in the title that this is book one!, we see where they need to go next and just what might await them.
Cooper does a great job of leaving this on a chaotic, tension-filled cliffhanger and one that will have readers desperately begging for book two to arrive sooner than later!
What I didn’t like: Really, the only thing I didn’t like was that it ended on a cliffhanger. Look, I knew it was going to, and I knew this was book one, yadda yadda, but that will always be the thing that will make me pull the limited hair I can still grow on my head out! I just wish more fantasy ended each book with a finish that still set up where the next book would go.
Why you should buy this: Are you a book snob who turns your nose up at fantasy? Well, consider this more of a horror story with an armored guy with an axe! Are you a book snob who turns your nose up at horror? Well, consider this a fantasy story with creatures and action. Hey wait, that’s like all the other fantasy out there.
Look, the reality is here, that S.H. Cooper has written her ass off to create this PHENOMENAL story that is 100% about two people who are so completely different in normal times they’d never team up, who are thrust together because of things outside of their control and have to figure out a way to band together and survive. This is pretty much every horror AND fantasy novel and movie that’s ever been released, but told through the lens of a masterful storyteller who will have you gripped from page one and just doesn’t let go.
I honestly can’t wait until book two and I’m annoyed that Cooper hasn’t announced it already!
Outstanding novel and I’m sure this will be an outstanding series sure to be raved about for decades to come!
You know, it’s not uncommon for any of us to scroll through any of the various social media pages we all have and come across the argument that a writer should only write in a singular genre. That they should pick a trope and not go beyond it. That they should pick their lane and stay in it.
Yet, almost without fail, the authors I love reading most AND the authors who continue to push the envelope and advance every genre are those that hop back and forth like an elementary kid playing hopscotch.
I’ve read a number of S.H. Cooper’s books in the past – I was even honored to previously blurb one of her standout releases – and time and time again, Cooper crafts stories that are masterful. Saying that, I’ve not yet read any of her fantasy releases, so, when I saw her putting out a call for reviews, I quickly sent her a DM. This one sounded fantastic and that cover art had me sold.
I had no idea what I was going to be in for, but I was excited to dive in!
What I liked: The story begins with a bang. We’re thrown into the mix of a town under siege. A ‘disease’ known as the weeping blight is sweeping the land and teen/young woman Yaveta is trying to flee. Soon enough, while chased, she encounters a man, a northerner that they refer to as milkskin’s that is armored and ready to fight. The man’s name is Wulfren and together they flee, heading south.
From there, it’s a gripping mix of fantasy/horror and comradery dynamics. Wulfren is quiet, brooding and secretive. Yaveta is young, questioning and innocent. She’s trusting of all and because of this, we see that openness continually put them into harms way, even as Wulfren warns her about what is going to happen next.
As they continue on towards the town of Orkeas, where Wulfren is to meet someone and where Yaveta’s aunt lives, Cooper works her magic by writing a fantasy novel with the sensibilities of pulse-pounding horror. There is no bloat here. We don’t get thirty pages dedicated to describe what it is they’re eating for dinner or pages and pages of purple prose showcasing the details of the land and the hills around it. No, Cooper keeps it sleek, streamlined and the reader is richly rewarded for that. It creates an atmosphere throughout of ever growing tension. If things are bad in the outskirt areas, just what awaits them in the next town.
And what does await them is fantastic and a phenomenally executed mix of fantasy-horror creature creation. I won’t spoil it here, but Cooper has outdone herself with the world building and the figures and things that inhabit it. Even when we get brief moments of backstory or historical information, its to the point and solidly shared.
Once we get to the ‘final destination,’ where we all know this won’t be the ending, because A) it’s a fantasy book and B) I mean it says it in the title that this is book one!, we see where they need to go next and just what might await them.
Cooper does a great job of leaving this on a chaotic, tension-filled cliffhanger and one that will have readers desperately begging for book two to arrive sooner than later!
What I didn’t like: Really, the only thing I didn’t like was that it ended on a cliffhanger. Look, I knew it was going to, and I knew this was book one, yadda yadda, but that will always be the thing that will make me pull the limited hair I can still grow on my head out! I just wish more fantasy ended each book with a finish that still set up where the next book would go.
Why you should buy this: Are you a book snob who turns your nose up at fantasy? Well, consider this more of a horror story with an armored guy with an axe! Are you a book snob who turns your nose up at horror? Well, consider this a fantasy story with creatures and action. Hey wait, that’s like all the other fantasy out there.
Look, the reality is here, that S.H. Cooper has written her ass off to create this PHENOMENAL story that is 100% about two people who are so completely different in normal times they’d never team up, who are thrust together because of things outside of their control and have to figure out a way to band together and survive. This is pretty much every horror AND fantasy novel and movie that’s ever been released, but told through the lens of a masterful storyteller who will have you gripped from page one and just doesn’t let go.
I honestly can’t wait until book two and I’m annoyed that Cooper hasn’t announced it already!
Outstanding novel and I’m sure this will be an outstanding series sure to be raved about for decades to come!
April 24, 2024
Threads of Ash: South is my first foray into the world of Fantasy Horror, and I'm so glad I started by S.H. Cooper's universe.
This is the story of a woman fleeing for her life after the only home she knew was ravaged, and chosing to trust a mysterious and gruff stranger as her companion for the road.
But it's so much more than that!
Cooper's words are painting a world full of flawed humans, hope for salvation, terrible decisions and an array of nightmare inducing "monsters".
We explore it through Yaveta's fresh eyes; her kindness, her strength and her will to save herself and others are coloring each line.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can't wait for the follow-up book to be released so I can spend more time being afraid for Yaveta and Wulfren's lives!
(I received this advanced copy of the book for free as part of me lending my voice to the book's trailer, this review reflects my honest -and enthusiastic- opinion)
This is the story of a woman fleeing for her life after the only home she knew was ravaged, and chosing to trust a mysterious and gruff stranger as her companion for the road.
But it's so much more than that!
Cooper's words are painting a world full of flawed humans, hope for salvation, terrible decisions and an array of nightmare inducing "monsters".
We explore it through Yaveta's fresh eyes; her kindness, her strength and her will to save herself and others are coloring each line.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can't wait for the follow-up book to be released so I can spend more time being afraid for Yaveta and Wulfren's lives!
(I received this advanced copy of the book for free as part of me lending my voice to the book's trailer, this review reflects my honest -and enthusiastic- opinion)
May 5, 2024
In Niranthym a plague has struck the populace turning them into warped monsters that hunt the living. In this hell, Yavetta and the other enduring Jacquin scrounge a living, but now Jacquin is hanging from the bell rope.
Whilst out in the streets. Yavetta falls prey to the Weepers, but luckily for her, she is saved by a mysterious Northman called Wulfren.
After escaping the city, Wulfren agrees to take the girl to her aunts in the next village.
S.H. Cooper successfully mixes horror and fantasy in her latest book, Threads of Ash. In this tale set in a post apocalyptic fantasy world, it is reminiscent of the pulpy fantasy of yesteryear, such as Robert E. Howard. The book feels like an introduction to the world and a start to a hero who is yet to develop into her full potential.
The story really centres around the two main characters and whilst the book introduces witches, spirits and monsters, the book is about the mystery surrounding the blight. Who let it loose and where did it come from.
Mainly, the book keeps its cast of characters to a minimum. Primarily centring on Yavette and Wulfrem as they travel to take Yavette to her aunts so that she can rebuild her life following the destruction wrought by the blight.
Intrinsically, the book put me in mind of the Soloman Kane adventures by Howard, particularly with the supernatural elements that are contained within the story.
As I was reading this, I felt that this book was very much a beginning (yes, I know that this is an obvious statement) to a larger story and that we were getting an introduction to a character that would very much be a warrior fighting a larger evil, and I have to say that I am totally on board with that and cannot wait to see how this character develops. In addition to this, we have Wulfrem’s character, who is kept deliberately vague, and again, it will be interesting to see how Wulfrem develops
The prose itself is quite clipped, particularly when it focuses on the action side of things. There is no bloat with extraneous exposition about the countryside that the characters are travelling through or any other side adventures. The book just moves from point A to point B, which I have to say I really appreciated as it maintained the impetus of the story and kept my mind uncluttered of all the facts that I usually have to remember in fantasy stories.
I loved the horror side of things and the creatures that S.H. Cooper introduces are fantastic, and what I really liked is that the creatures are not all the same in their dynamics. As the story progresses, the creatures change from what they were at the beginning (I am being as vague as possible here!). However, they are equally as effective as when we first meet them.
I have got to say that I highly recommend this book. If (like me) you have read S.H. Coopers other books, then you are in for a treat with this one as it is quite different from her other ones, particularly the quiet gothicness of Inheriting Her Ghosts.
Whilst out in the streets. Yavetta falls prey to the Weepers, but luckily for her, she is saved by a mysterious Northman called Wulfren.
After escaping the city, Wulfren agrees to take the girl to her aunts in the next village.
S.H. Cooper successfully mixes horror and fantasy in her latest book, Threads of Ash. In this tale set in a post apocalyptic fantasy world, it is reminiscent of the pulpy fantasy of yesteryear, such as Robert E. Howard. The book feels like an introduction to the world and a start to a hero who is yet to develop into her full potential.
The story really centres around the two main characters and whilst the book introduces witches, spirits and monsters, the book is about the mystery surrounding the blight. Who let it loose and where did it come from.
Mainly, the book keeps its cast of characters to a minimum. Primarily centring on Yavette and Wulfrem as they travel to take Yavette to her aunts so that she can rebuild her life following the destruction wrought by the blight.
Intrinsically, the book put me in mind of the Soloman Kane adventures by Howard, particularly with the supernatural elements that are contained within the story.
As I was reading this, I felt that this book was very much a beginning (yes, I know that this is an obvious statement) to a larger story and that we were getting an introduction to a character that would very much be a warrior fighting a larger evil, and I have to say that I am totally on board with that and cannot wait to see how this character develops. In addition to this, we have Wulfrem’s character, who is kept deliberately vague, and again, it will be interesting to see how Wulfrem develops
The prose itself is quite clipped, particularly when it focuses on the action side of things. There is no bloat with extraneous exposition about the countryside that the characters are travelling through or any other side adventures. The book just moves from point A to point B, which I have to say I really appreciated as it maintained the impetus of the story and kept my mind uncluttered of all the facts that I usually have to remember in fantasy stories.
I loved the horror side of things and the creatures that S.H. Cooper introduces are fantastic, and what I really liked is that the creatures are not all the same in their dynamics. As the story progresses, the creatures change from what they were at the beginning (I am being as vague as possible here!). However, they are equally as effective as when we first meet them.
I have got to say that I highly recommend this book. If (like me) you have read S.H. Coopers other books, then you are in for a treat with this one as it is quite different from her other ones, particularly the quiet gothicness of Inheriting Her Ghosts.
May 24, 2024
I first encountered SH Cooper with her incredible ‘Ungodly Duology’ last year, and she immediately shot onto my Must Buy list. As an independent author, she’s free to explore wherever the imagination takes her, and that she absolutely goes all out every time.
This is the first in a dark fantasy series, set in the aftermath of a magical disease. There’s very little information given, as we only learn via our protagonist Yaveta who begins the book having lost her family, friends and village to the Weeping Blight. She finds a warrior about his own mysterious business, and together they travel the ravaged land in an attempt to figure out exactly what’s going on and whether there are any other survivors.
Since 2020, I’ve found post-apocalyptic (and virus-based) books understandably difficult to read. The difference with Threads of Ash is that Yaveta is a wonderfully empathic narrator. I genuinely felt her sorrow, fear and determination as she battles through unbelievably situations, with reactions that are understandable and realistic. She retains her humanity and care for others while having to acknowledge the existence of true monsters, and it’s a joy to accompany her on this journey.
Wulfren makes for a fun companion as well. This story is very much based around the two travellers, and his stoic ‘warrior’ demeanour could easily be compared to the Witcher Geralt - except there are differences. We learn his background in tantalising drops, and when there’s a larger reveal it’s all the more shocking. Yes, he’s lost friends to this warped world too.
This is a beautiful fantasy, dark without too much of the ‘grim’, and it held me from beginning to (cliffhanger) ending. I was immediately looking forward to the next part, and know that the author has her writing finger in several pies at the moment, so will be following her eagerly too see what worlds she crafts next.
Refreshingly original, gorgeously written and definitely recommended if you want some original, gripping fantasy.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the author, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
This is the first in a dark fantasy series, set in the aftermath of a magical disease. There’s very little information given, as we only learn via our protagonist Yaveta who begins the book having lost her family, friends and village to the Weeping Blight. She finds a warrior about his own mysterious business, and together they travel the ravaged land in an attempt to figure out exactly what’s going on and whether there are any other survivors.
Since 2020, I’ve found post-apocalyptic (and virus-based) books understandably difficult to read. The difference with Threads of Ash is that Yaveta is a wonderfully empathic narrator. I genuinely felt her sorrow, fear and determination as she battles through unbelievably situations, with reactions that are understandable and realistic. She retains her humanity and care for others while having to acknowledge the existence of true monsters, and it’s a joy to accompany her on this journey.
Wulfren makes for a fun companion as well. This story is very much based around the two travellers, and his stoic ‘warrior’ demeanour could easily be compared to the Witcher Geralt - except there are differences. We learn his background in tantalising drops, and when there’s a larger reveal it’s all the more shocking. Yes, he’s lost friends to this warped world too.
This is a beautiful fantasy, dark without too much of the ‘grim’, and it held me from beginning to (cliffhanger) ending. I was immediately looking forward to the next part, and know that the author has her writing finger in several pies at the moment, so will be following her eagerly too see what worlds she crafts next.
Refreshingly original, gorgeously written and definitely recommended if you want some original, gripping fantasy.
I was kindly sent an early copy of this book by the author, but the above opinions are entirely my own.
April 9, 2024
Actual Rating 1.5
Yaveta has lost everything to the blight except for her will to live. She manages to be rescued by a strong, silent warrior named Wulfren who unwillingly agrees to let her join him. But Yaveta soon learns that the blight has spread beyond the borders of her village, and that there are few truly safe places remaining. With Wulfren protecting her, she tries to put her trust in him despite his secretive nature, and the two of them begin a journey to discover just how far the blight has travelled.
This book had a lot of promise, but unfortunately it just didn’t excel in any areas. There were some decent details and descriptions included relating to the setting, but they weren’t written in a way that created an immersive, alive world. I did like the weeping blight and the monsters that resulted from it (somewhat similar to zombies). But there were several things that reminded me too much of the Witcher for it to feel like a coincidence.
Similarly, the characters were lacking in depth, development, and personalities. They came across as flat and bland, and it felt like we never learned anything meaningful about them. This led to it being impossible to connect with them or their stories. The plot was also quite linear and simple, leaving the story lacking in development and not feeling engaging. Despite the story ending on a cliffhanger, it wasn’t intriguing and didn’t make me excited to read book two.
While this work of fantasy was somewhat promising and relatively short, I don’t recommend it. My thanks to BookSirens and the author for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Yaveta has lost everything to the blight except for her will to live. She manages to be rescued by a strong, silent warrior named Wulfren who unwillingly agrees to let her join him. But Yaveta soon learns that the blight has spread beyond the borders of her village, and that there are few truly safe places remaining. With Wulfren protecting her, she tries to put her trust in him despite his secretive nature, and the two of them begin a journey to discover just how far the blight has travelled.
This book had a lot of promise, but unfortunately it just didn’t excel in any areas. There were some decent details and descriptions included relating to the setting, but they weren’t written in a way that created an immersive, alive world. I did like the weeping blight and the monsters that resulted from it (somewhat similar to zombies). But there were several things that reminded me too much of the Witcher for it to feel like a coincidence.
Similarly, the characters were lacking in depth, development, and personalities. They came across as flat and bland, and it felt like we never learned anything meaningful about them. This led to it being impossible to connect with them or their stories. The plot was also quite linear and simple, leaving the story lacking in development and not feeling engaging. Despite the story ending on a cliffhanger, it wasn’t intriguing and didn’t make me excited to read book two.
While this work of fantasy was somewhat promising and relatively short, I don’t recommend it. My thanks to BookSirens and the author for allowing me to read this work. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 19, 2024
I've wanted to read this book for a while now, and picked it up last night because I couldn't wait any longer. 😁
Yaveta has lost everyone and everything that mattered to her because of the weeping blight. So when a warrior called Wulfren saves her life, she decides to go with him on an adventure across a devastated world that provides more questions than answers...
Wow. What an awesome dark fantasy tale this turned out to be. It's got the right combination of fantasy and horror. Plus the worldbuilding is intriguing, and the writing is wonderful. It's set in a dangerous, but lovely, place that constantly surprised me and kept me glued to the page.
I really liked Yaveta, a young woman who's been through so much she doesn't realize she's strong at heart and might. Wulfren is a brooding big guy who hides behind his strength and isn't prepared to deal with someone like Yaveta. And together, they make an odd but great pair. Also, I love Svir! So cute.
Well, I enjoyed everything about this fast-paced, interesting book that has a bit of everything. Including some great body horror and plenty of gore.
Can't wait for the next book!
Yaveta has lost everyone and everything that mattered to her because of the weeping blight. So when a warrior called Wulfren saves her life, she decides to go with him on an adventure across a devastated world that provides more questions than answers...
Wow. What an awesome dark fantasy tale this turned out to be. It's got the right combination of fantasy and horror. Plus the worldbuilding is intriguing, and the writing is wonderful. It's set in a dangerous, but lovely, place that constantly surprised me and kept me glued to the page.
I really liked Yaveta, a young woman who's been through so much she doesn't realize she's strong at heart and might. Wulfren is a brooding big guy who hides behind his strength and isn't prepared to deal with someone like Yaveta. And together, they make an odd but great pair. Also, I love Svir! So cute.
Well, I enjoyed everything about this fast-paced, interesting book that has a bit of everything. Including some great body horror and plenty of gore.
Can't wait for the next book!
March 14, 2024
I don't know exactly how to put my feelings for this book into words; I felt convoluted from the first chapter. It's not your typical S.H. Cooper story, but somehow so much more. There's the loveable and relatable characters we all expect, but they are also more raw, more open (yet so much hidden depth), more...broken.
There's blood and horrors abounding, of course. Even new terrors I had never heard of. The lore of the world is fascinating and I enjoyed how it played out slowly throughout the entire book. At the same time, I was frustrated that I didn't know more at the beginning. It was so much different than anything I had read that I wasn't sure I would understand anything. But I kept reading and fell in love with Yaveta the young maiden that learns what she's capable of, Wulfren the barbarian that learns to care for another, and their crazy, topsy-turvy world.
Maybe what I'm trying to say is throw your expectations away before starting this book because while it's definitely a Cooper story, it's something different, something new and exciting. Something amazing.
There's blood and horrors abounding, of course. Even new terrors I had never heard of. The lore of the world is fascinating and I enjoyed how it played out slowly throughout the entire book. At the same time, I was frustrated that I didn't know more at the beginning. It was so much different than anything I had read that I wasn't sure I would understand anything. But I kept reading and fell in love with Yaveta the young maiden that learns what she's capable of, Wulfren the barbarian that learns to care for another, and their crazy, topsy-turvy world.
Maybe what I'm trying to say is throw your expectations away before starting this book because while it's definitely a Cooper story, it's something different, something new and exciting. Something amazing.
April 25, 2024
This is a fast-paced, unique, and short fantasy horror read.
Having never read anything by S.H. Cooper before I didn't have any expectation when starting this book. I loved the unique, grotesque creatures (I could slightly liken to zombies but that wouldn't do them justice at all). They were described in such a way that they leave the reader with a visceral sense of unease to imagine. The two characters are complete opposites forced together to survive the Weeping Blight. Their dynamic was captivating and their differing backgrounds and moralities made for an interesting reluctant alliance.
I loved how fast-paced this was. The world building melded with the storyline in a way that didn't leave you bored or waiting for the action to happen.
I did feel the ending was a bit abrupt, but it was also effective because I instantly wanted book two in my hands so I could continue their story.
Disclaimer: I was generously provided with an advance copy via BookSirens. However, all viewpoints expressed above are my own!
Having never read anything by S.H. Cooper before I didn't have any expectation when starting this book. I loved the unique, grotesque creatures (I could slightly liken to zombies but that wouldn't do them justice at all). They were described in such a way that they leave the reader with a visceral sense of unease to imagine. The two characters are complete opposites forced together to survive the Weeping Blight. Their dynamic was captivating and their differing backgrounds and moralities made for an interesting reluctant alliance.
I loved how fast-paced this was. The world building melded with the storyline in a way that didn't leave you bored or waiting for the action to happen.
I did feel the ending was a bit abrupt, but it was also effective because I instantly wanted book two in my hands so I could continue their story.
Disclaimer: I was generously provided with an advance copy via BookSirens. However, all viewpoints expressed above are my own!
April 30, 2024
Let's start off by saying that this book had a lot of promise. It was a short and promising fantasy book.
There were decent details, also regarding the settings, but it didn't create an immersive world for me personally. I personally would have liked to have a bit more information regarding the weeping blight and the monsters coming from it, but maybe we shall get to learn about that in the next book.
Besides that, I think the characters were a bit flat. There wasn't that much development of personalities or much depth, and I don't feel like I have come to know a lot of meaningful things of them.
As for the plot, it seemed a bit simple, but that's okay for me. The cliffhanger didn't intrigue me as much as I had hoped though.
For a next book I hope to see back a bit more of a development in plot and characters.
Overall, it's a nice book to read if you just finished a heavy series, and I would like to read book two, but it doesn't place high on the books I would recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There were decent details, also regarding the settings, but it didn't create an immersive world for me personally. I personally would have liked to have a bit more information regarding the weeping blight and the monsters coming from it, but maybe we shall get to learn about that in the next book.
Besides that, I think the characters were a bit flat. There wasn't that much development of personalities or much depth, and I don't feel like I have come to know a lot of meaningful things of them.
As for the plot, it seemed a bit simple, but that's okay for me. The cliffhanger didn't intrigue me as much as I had hoped though.
For a next book I hope to see back a bit more of a development in plot and characters.
Overall, it's a nice book to read if you just finished a heavy series, and I would like to read book two, but it doesn't place high on the books I would recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 29, 2024
Threads of Ash is great for the readers who maybe want to get into an Epic Fantasy tale without investing 40 hours of reading to get through book one. The bare bones of Threads is a heroine's journey, and the fiends we meet along the way. But, those fiends are actually interesting and well thought out. I liken reading this to the first installment of a video game, each level is bringing about a new big bad; and reading along as Yaveta and Wulfren unravel the key to "conquering" each level as they travel through the lands of the South, searching for solace. Some of these scenes are very cinematic in their descriptions, which is hard to do in large lumbering fantasy books, so the fact that it is done well in this novella should be a clue that you should read this. Some of the big bads are also terrifying and I would not want to meet them in a dark alley. Overall this was an entertaining read and I am looking forward to the next installment.
July 10, 2024
Threads of Ash: South blew my expectations totally out of the water!
This book gave me serious Witcher vibes, and I loved the blend of fantasy with horror elements. I was transported into a unique world that felt real and whole and utterly devastated. I loved Cooper's writing, where the setting is highlighted in beautiful detail, but not at the cost of pace. The action starts from the very first page and does not let up!
Yaveta is the type of character that I could see myself in. She's strong, but she also makes mistakes, misjudges situations. She wants to see the best in everything, even though horrors literally peek around every corner. And Wulfren is this hard-shelled enigma. Strong. Fierce. Cold as ice. And Svir, the horse, adds some emotional relief when things get too intense. They make a tense but amusing cast!
Even though there's no romantic subplot, you'll get sucked right into Threads of Ash: South. If you enjoyed The Witcher, I think this book would be right up your alley, too!
This book gave me serious Witcher vibes, and I loved the blend of fantasy with horror elements. I was transported into a unique world that felt real and whole and utterly devastated. I loved Cooper's writing, where the setting is highlighted in beautiful detail, but not at the cost of pace. The action starts from the very first page and does not let up!
Yaveta is the type of character that I could see myself in. She's strong, but she also makes mistakes, misjudges situations. She wants to see the best in everything, even though horrors literally peek around every corner. And Wulfren is this hard-shelled enigma. Strong. Fierce. Cold as ice. And Svir, the horse, adds some emotional relief when things get too intense. They make a tense but amusing cast!
Even though there's no romantic subplot, you'll get sucked right into Threads of Ash: South. If you enjoyed The Witcher, I think this book would be right up your alley, too!
May 22, 2024
Threads of Ash is captivating and original. From the very beginning I was drawn into the storyline. It is a YA fantasy, with all kinds of interesting creatures and quite an adventure.
Yaveta is the FMC. She’s a young girl living in unideal conditions. She is alone, and fighting to survive. She meets Wulfren and embarks on a new journey of survival and heartbreak.
Wulfren is the MMC. Strong, fierce, and grumpy. He is the brutal warrior type, with no patience for any inconveniences. He is secretive and has an emotional wall of steel.
This is not a romantic novel. There is a lot of action and plot twists. The plot was done very well. The characters are well developed and unique. The world building was beautiful and vivid. I enjoyed the entire story and I can’t wait to see what is next for Yaveta and Wulfren!
Yaveta is the FMC. She’s a young girl living in unideal conditions. She is alone, and fighting to survive. She meets Wulfren and embarks on a new journey of survival and heartbreak.
Wulfren is the MMC. Strong, fierce, and grumpy. He is the brutal warrior type, with no patience for any inconveniences. He is secretive and has an emotional wall of steel.
This is not a romantic novel. There is a lot of action and plot twists. The plot was done very well. The characters are well developed and unique. The world building was beautiful and vivid. I enjoyed the entire story and I can’t wait to see what is next for Yaveta and Wulfren!
October 5, 2024
A breath of fresh air (if you ignore the rotting corpses)
I was completely engrossed in this book from start to finish, so much so that I paused on the other books I was reading so that I could focus solely on this - something I rarely do as I usually read multiple books simultaneously.
Yaveta is an Enduring - the last remaining human in her blighted village. We follow her as she finds a new companion (and perhaps friend?) from the lands in the North, Wulfren and they travel through a series of interesting but creepy locations, each with their own unique blight, learning to trust each other as well as their instincts.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I'm excited to find out what happens in Book 2 when it's released.
I was completely engrossed in this book from start to finish, so much so that I paused on the other books I was reading so that I could focus solely on this - something I rarely do as I usually read multiple books simultaneously.
Yaveta is an Enduring - the last remaining human in her blighted village. We follow her as she finds a new companion (and perhaps friend?) from the lands in the North, Wulfren and they travel through a series of interesting but creepy locations, each with their own unique blight, learning to trust each other as well as their instincts.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I'm excited to find out what happens in Book 2 when it's released.
March 22, 2025
An interesting blend of fantasy and horror, with some familiar zombie / mutant apocalypse story elements. Yaveta, a young, inexperienced small town girl and Wulfren, a gruff foreign soldier must navigate their way through blighted settlements to uncover meaning behind the end of most of the living people. Wulfren may be hiding secrets and Yaveta struggles with her own vulnerability and naive concern for survivors they encounter.
I enjoyed most of the writing and the travel experiences in the story. However, at times the prose got a bit "purple" describing Wulfren's prowess and supposedly formidable rage, and Yaveta's melodramatic trauma got repetitive. This is a promising book and I'm guessing will carry on in a series that bodes well.
I enjoyed most of the writing and the travel experiences in the story. However, at times the prose got a bit "purple" describing Wulfren's prowess and supposedly formidable rage, and Yaveta's melodramatic trauma got repetitive. This is a promising book and I'm guessing will carry on in a series that bodes well.
April 23, 2024
I love fantasy although I don't read it as often as I used to. This was a really good story - dark with great characters. It was good to see a male-female relationship develop in a story without the "will they....fall in love," aspect.
The story moves at a brisk pace, but you don't feel shortchanged. It had a really good ending and left me wanting book 2 to come out soon.
Thanks for S.H. Cooper to providing me a copy.
The story moves at a brisk pace, but you don't feel shortchanged. It had a really good ending and left me wanting book 2 to come out soon.
Thanks for S.H. Cooper to providing me a copy.
March 30, 2024
This read was fast paced. I didn't have to wait for ages reading unnecessary information to understand what was going on.
I enjoyed the read, the storyline and the characters.
The author knows how to make you feel the horror when reading which I really liked.
A read I would highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the read, the storyline and the characters.
The author knows how to make you feel the horror when reading which I really liked.
A read I would highly recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 6, 2024
I love this book, and I’m sad to have to wait for more (but I get it!). It was a fun, high-fantasy read, with adventure, magic, bravery, and new friendship with a rocky start, loss… it’s a great beginning to a magical adventure series!
May 28, 2024
Blight
A blight is spreading over the land Yaveta has nothing left. After she is rescued she must trust her rescuer. How far does the blight go is anywhere safe. Beautiful haunting book pulls you in.
A blight is spreading over the land Yaveta has nothing left. After she is rescued she must trust her rescuer. How far does the blight go is anywhere safe. Beautiful haunting book pulls you in.
June 23, 2024
Threads of Ash: South is a delightfully dark journey through a world upended by blight. There’s great character & world building, reminiscent of The Witcher books. I enjoyed the characters’ banter quite a bit, as well as the creepy monsters, and am looking forward to continuing the quest!
July 14, 2024
I devoured this book!
The story had me hooked from the jump, and it did not disappoint as I got to the end. The characters were compelling, real, and relatable. I cannot wait for book 2! I promise, you will not regret reading this book.
The story had me hooked from the jump, and it did not disappoint as I got to the end. The characters were compelling, real, and relatable. I cannot wait for book 2! I promise, you will not regret reading this book.
January 10, 2025
Threads of Ash: South is an exciting blend of fantasy and horror with a complex and relatable main character you can't help but cheer for. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
May 5, 2024
Threads of Ash: South by SH Cooper is a very descriptive fantasy/horror about girl Yaveta the Enduring, Wulfren the Milkskin and his horse Svir traveling together through a sick and dying land in search of a safe haven.
I enjoyed this book! The only thing I didn’t care for at first was that it was extremely descriptive not leaving much to the imagination. However as the book progressed it became evident how important the descriptive details were.
I really did like the dynamic the characters developed with each other and the importance of the bond they formed. The horrific encounters and creatures did not disappoint. I am looking forward to reading the next book to continue the journey with Yaveta, Wulfren and Svir.
Thank you to SH Cooper and Book Sirens for my advance readers copy! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book! The only thing I didn’t care for at first was that it was extremely descriptive not leaving much to the imagination. However as the book progressed it became evident how important the descriptive details were.
I really did like the dynamic the characters developed with each other and the importance of the bond they formed. The horrific encounters and creatures did not disappoint. I am looking forward to reading the next book to continue the journey with Yaveta, Wulfren and Svir.
Thank you to SH Cooper and Book Sirens for my advance readers copy! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
July 24, 2024
This was such a wonderful read. The style is stunning, skillfully treading the delicate boundary between fantasy and horror. With its post-apocalyptic setting, this book keeps you hooked, anxiously anticipating what lies ahead for our two main characters. The relationship between them is so compelling and wholesome. Cannot wait for part 2.
March 27, 2024
I throughly enjoyed Threads of Ash: South. Yaveta and Wulfren travel a world torn assunder and we follow their travels and their attempts to find family and friends. Bad luck stays three steps ahead of them. This drives both Yaveta and Wulfren's desire to figure out the mystery of what and why is at the heart of their worlds problems. Threads of Ash: South has sword & sorcery, humor, spooks, and mystery. The ending left me wanting to read the next book right then and there.
S.H. Cooper continues to entertain me with her writing. I recommend picking this up when it releases.
S.H. Cooper continues to entertain me with her writing. I recommend picking this up when it releases.
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